Hong Kong: Chris Sun to tour bay area cities

Secretary for Labour & Welfare Chris Sun will lead a delegation to visit Guangzhou, Zhaoqing and Foshan from tomorrow.

The delegation members are from the Labour & Welfare Bureau and the Legislative Council Panel on Welfare Services.

They will call on the Department of Civil Affairs of Guangdong Province and visit residential care homes for the elderly. They will also tour community care service units for the elderly and meet with retired Hong Kong people on the Mainland.

Mr Sun will return to Hong Kong on September 1. Under Secretary Ho Kai-ming will be Acting Secretary during his absence.

This story has been published on: 2023-08-29. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article.
BRI elevates Guangdong's Yangjiang knife and scissor industry to global prominence

People's Daily Online) 09:58, August 29, 2023

In recent years, Yangjiang, a coastal city in south China's Guangdong Province famed for its knives and scissors, has experienced high-quality growth in this sector, gaining global traction due to the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).

Yangjiang Shibazi Group, a leading kitchen knife brand in Yangjiang, exports its knives to over 20 countries and regions.

Li Kongling, manager of the foreign trade department of Yangjiang Shibazi Group, a premier kitchen knife brand in Yangjiang city, south China's Guangdong Province, receives an interview from People's Daily Online. (Photo/Liu Yinghua)

"We have continuously expanded our overseas business these years. We have also enlarged our production scale year by year," Li Kongling, manager of the group's foreign trade department, told People's Daily Online.

Li emphasized the growth in the group's overseas knife sales in recent years.

"This type of knife can be sold for $10 to $20 in overseas markets," Li said in front of a display cabinet.

According to Li, the introduction of the BRI has not only facilitated the rapid global expansion of Chinese companies but has also drawn foreign merchants to learn the art of crafting Yangjiang knives.

Nevertheless, the global expansion of Yangjiang's knife and scissor enterprises was challenging. Li recalled that during an early 2016 assessment of overseas sales, they discovered that 90 percent of the market in developed countries in Europe and America was dominated by local kitchen knife and kitchenware brands.

"If we wanted to expand our business rapidly in overseas markets, we had to take a different approach," Li said, adding that the group then focused on the markets in countries along the Belt and Road after the proposal of the BRI.

Li stated that in 2022, the group's overseas sales reached 110 million yuan ($15.1 million), with products distributed in various Belt and Road countries, including Poland, Austria, and the Czech Republic.

Data reveals that in 2022, Yangjiang, recognized as China's "capital of knives and scissors," hosted nearly 10,000 market players in the hardware, knife, and scissor industry. The sector's output surpassed 55 billion yuan, employing around 200,000 individuals.

"We aim to expand our operations into more countries and regions along the Belt and Road," Li concluded.

(Web editor: Hongyu, Liang Jun)
Photo: The Canadian Press Ontario Education Minister Stephen Lecce.

The union representing elementary teachers in Ontario says it will not accept a deal to head to arbitration to avoid a strike.

Elementary Teachers' Federation of Ontario president Karen Brown says the union will file for conciliation.

She says the pace of negotiations with the province has become unacceptably slow.

The union says it is planning to hold a strike vote in September.

Last week, the province and the union that represents English high school teachers agreed to negotiate until the end of October and send outstanding issues to arbitration.

On Monday, Education Minister Stephen Lecce urged the three other teachers unions to agree to the same deal that avoids a strike.
Union Minister and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Gajendra Singh Shekhawat challenged Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot to discuss Rajasthan on any open forum while discussing Central Government schemes for the poll-bound state. Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat was addressing the media at Pushkar Ganahera in Rajasthan on Monday. With this challenge, the public will clearly understand who is actually doing politics with the people of Rajasthan. Through the project of the Centre, thirteen districts get the guarantee of freedom from drinking water problems for forty years, while the Gehlot government is doing politics in this matter as well, Shekhawat said. Rajasthan BJP leader also lashed out at Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on the issue of Galwan and said that he should look on his own before accusing Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Central Government. When the country's soldiers were fighting with China in the Galwan Valley, with whom was Rahul Gandhi cheating? Rahul should look at his family history before accusing anyone. Rahul Gandhi should first see under what circumstances he signed an MoU when the Congress was weak and donated money from China to the Rajiv Gandhi Foundation. Rahul Gandhi should look on his own before accusing Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the central government, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat said. While targeting Gehlot further on the ERCP project, Shekhawat said CM Ashok Gehlot is fulfilling his ambitions by ignoring thirteen districts regarding the ERCP project. By doing this, Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot has committed the sin of playing with the lives of more than 3 crore population of East Rajasthan. Notably, the Eastern Rajasthan Canal Project (ERCP) aims to harvest surplus water available during the rainy season in rivers in southern Rajasthan such as Chambal and its tributaries including Kunnu, Parvati, Kalisindh and use this water in the south-eastern districts of the state where there is a scarcity of water for drinking and irrigation. Politics in Rajasthan has intensified as the legislative assembly elections in the state are scheduled to be held later this year In 2018 the Congress won 99 seats while the BJP won 73 seats in the 200-member house. The Congress led by Ashok Gehlot formed the government with the support of Independents and the BSP. (ANI)
A special court of the National Investigation Agency (NIA) in Patna has sentenced key accused in Bihar's 'fake Indian currency notes' case to seven years of Rigorous Imprisonment (RI) and fined in two separate cases, officials said on Tuesday. Abi Mohammad Ansari, hailing from Nepal's Bara district, has been convicted and awarded 7 years RI and Rs 5000 under Section 120B of IPC, with a similar quantum of punishment and fine also awarded under sections 489B and 489C of IPC and 16, 18, 20 of UA(P) Act. "The sentences will run concurrently," NIA said. He is the second accused to be convicted in the case relating to the seizure of Fake Indian Currency Notes (FICN) in Bihar's East Champaran. The high-quality FICN, in the denomination of Rs 500 with a total face value of Rs 25,43,000, was seized on September 30, 2015. On that day, the other convicted accused, Mohd. Ali Akhtar Ansari had come to M/s Gati Kintetsu Express Private Limited, Raxaul, to take delivery of the fake currency and was arrested. According to NIA, during investigations, Ansari disclosed that the seized currency notes were fake and had been smuggled from a foreign country into India. He further revealed that the consignment was assigned to be delivered to Abi Mohammad alias Nabi Mohammad of Nepal through him. "Investigations further revealed that Syed Muhammad Shaffi, a Pakistan national residing in UAE, had couriered the parcel containing the fake currency from UAE through ICS (International Courier Service) to the arrested accused. The consignment had been sourced from a foreign country through a complex network of FICN traffickers, NIA investigations showed," NIA said. The case was initially registered by DRI, Muzaffarpur, Bihar on September 24, 2015, and re-registered by NIA on March 15, 2016. Separate chargesheets were filed against the two accused, Mohd. Ali Akhtar Ansari and Abi Mohammad Ansari, on September 21, 2016 and October 14, 2017, respectively. Mohd Ali Akhtar Ansari was awarded 20 years RI with a fine of Rs 50,000 on July 18, 2022. (ANI)
Reacting to the Vishwa Hindu Parishads (VHP) call to take out a procession in Haryana's Nuh, AIMIM president and Lok Sabha MP Asaduddin Owaisi claimed that targeted violence and collective punishment through demolition is being given to the Muslims. Owaisi was responding to the violence that had broken out between two groups on July 31 in Haryana's Nuh district that has claimed the lives of six people including two Home Guards. Speaking to reporters on Monday, Owaisi further alleged that the government in Haryana is being run by VHP which remained inefficient in stopping the violence. The government is run by VHP which has shown inefficiency in stopping the violence. The houses of people who saved the lives of Hindus were demolished. Targeted violence, targeted collective punishment through demolition is being given to the Muslims. There is no difference between VHP and BJP and the arrest made by them is just drama. The country is watching all this. Reacting to VHP being adamant about taking out Brij Mandal Shobha Yatra in Nuh, Owaisi questioned Will you bow down when an organisation threatens the government? The government is involved in the violence. Earilier on Monday the Haryana government had prevented several VHP cadre from offering 'Jal Abhishek' in the Mahadev Temple at Nuh. A small delegation including VHP working president Alok Kumar was allowed to offer prayers amidst high security. Further reacting to the Muzaffarnagar slap incident, where a school teacher has asked children to slap their Muslim classmate, Owaisi slammed the accused teacher and questioned why she was not being arrested. She is asking other students to beat a Muslim student; she doesn't have even a little shame that she is a teacher. Why is she not arrested yet? Why is the section of the 75 Juvenile Justice Act not applied to her? There is no remorse in the teacher. The people are supporting her. If the child was not Muslim, would there be the same situation? said Owaisi. (ANI)
The Delhi High Court on Tuesday granted bail to Pooja Singh, said to be a close aide of jailed Leena Maria Paul, wife of conman Sukesh Chandrashekar, in the Rs 200 crore money laundering case. The Bench of Justice Dinesh Kumar Sharma allowed her bail plea on a personal bail bond of Rs 50,000 and a like amount surety. Earlier her bail plea was dismissed by the trial Court. Advocate Satish Pandey appeared for Pooja Singh earlier submitted that Trial Court while rejecting the bail plea had failed to consider that petitioner is one of the employee of said 'Nail Artistry' run by the accused Leena Maria Palouse & she was bound to follow the instructions of her boss . Petitioner Pooja Singh claime she was doing the alleged acts on instructions of her boss understanding the same as a part of her service without knowing about the crime-racket of the alleged main accused. However the truth was that she never supplied the alleged articles to the accused in Jail and the investigating Agency have not found any incriminating evidence to the effect of supply the said alleged articles in the jail by the petitioner to the main accused. Advocate Satish Pandey further argued that petitioner is a 26-year young unmarried girl & joined the job for livelihood, in the 'Nail Artistry' beauty-saloon run by the Leena Maria Palouse in the city of Chennai. When her employer Leena was arrested by the ED and sent to a Delhi jail, she was bound to follow the instruction & advice of her boss who is the inmate of the jail. Petitioner was totally unaware about this high profile crime syndicate as allegedly run by the main accused. She has nothing to do with the said alleged money laundering of Rs. 200 crore as alleged by the ED against main accused said the lawyer. While arresting Pooja Singh in July 2022, the ED claimed that she was non cooperative and evasive in her statement. ED also claimed that she had deleted the data of her phones at the instructions of Sukesh. It was further submitted that Pooja Singh is in possession of material evidence and information related to the offence of money laundering and is deliberately withholding/not divulging the same. It was further submitted that custodial interrogation of accused is essential for identification of the persons involved in the offence and to ascertain end use of proceeds of crime, their beneficial owners, related activities/financial transaction, layering and to unearth the deep routed conspiracy hatched by her with co-accused for furtherance of investigation. It was also alleged that Pooja Singh was assisting Sukesh Chandrashekar to pass information to transfer funds kept with his associates. It was also alleged that Pooja Singh was in the knowledge of the fact that sales in 'Nail Artistry', owned by Sukesh and his wife, were from the amalgamation of proceeds of crime. ED also alleged that Pooja Singh assisted Sukesh Chandrashekar in laundering the proceeds of crime by allowing him to exchange messages through her for which she was paid a handsome amount. Therefore, there are reasons to believe that the accused is guilty of offence of money laundering under PMLA. The Rs 200 crore extortion and Money Laundering case is presently being probed by the Enforcement Directorate and Economic Offence Wing of Delhi Police. The ED in its supplementary chargesheet has made Bollywood Actor Jacqueline Fernandez an accused in the case. The Trial Court in November 2022 had granted regular bail to Jacqueline in the case. Sukesh Chandrashekhar, the prime accused in a Rs 200-crore money laundering case, has been charged with duping the wife of former Ranbaxy owner Shivinder Singh, Aditi Singh, while he was lodged in a Delhi jail. The Enforcement Directorate (ED) is probing the money trail of the proceeds in the case. (ANI)
Taking a jibe at Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar amid the speculation of him trying to be the prime ministerial candidate from INDIA Bloc, Bihars former CM Jitan Ram Manjhi said that there is a hidden yes in Kumars denial of having any aspiration of becoming PM. Referring to the recent statement made by Bihar minister and JD(U) leader Shravan Kumar in which he has said that people in the Hindi Heartland are "discussing that Nitish Kumar is a worthy candidate for the post of prime minister". Manjhi said if Shravan Kumar is saying something consider it being said by Nitish Kumar. "He (Nitish Kumar) was shown a clear path in Bengaluru. So, he had come back. Let's see what happens in Mumbai. Nitish Kumar says he is not ambitious....Naa mein haan hai ye. As far as (Bihar Minister) Shrawon Kumar is concerned, if he is saying something, consider it being said by Nitish Kumar. If he did not have a desire (to be the PM), why would he have moved around a lot?..." However, Nitish Kumar who kept himself aside from aspiring to become PM, on Monday once again clarified his stance on the possibility of accepting the role of national convener of the INDIA bloc if offered. He stated, I dont want to become anything. He further added that he has no such desire and just wants to unite all the political parties ahead of the upcoming 2024 Lok Sabha elections. While speaking to ANI, when asked if he would accept the role of convener if offered, Bihar CM Nitish Kumar said, "I don't want to become anything. I have been telling you this again and again. I have no such desire. I just want to unite everyone." The INDIA alliance members are meeting in Mumbai on August 30-31. During the meeting a possible decision can be taken on naming the convenor of the alliance along with kicking off discussions on seat sharing between the allies. (ANI)
Bharat Rashtra Samiti MLC Kavitha, daughter of Telangana Chief Minister KCR, has hit out at Congress and the BJP, the two principal opposition parties in Telangana. The southern state is set to go for Assembly polls later this year. "The State witnessed two public meetings of two big parties. One is where the Congress party has shown a new love for Dalits and organised a SC/ST declaration meeting. In a strange incident, the BJP has organised a Rythu Bharosa meeting with its national leaders. These show that the opposition is trying to mislead the people by false promises ahead of the elections, she told reporters. Congress, she said, has ruled the country for a long time but has not worked to alleviate poverty among the Dalits. She said that Telangana Chief Minister KCR, is working for the welfare of all sections of the society and has brought many schemes for the Dalits, poor people, backward classes, and minorities. The Congress thinking that the people might not believe if the local Congress leaders give promises, has brought Mallikarjun Kharge for the meeting. They have just declared what we are already doing. As we are already giving Rs 10 lakhs as Dalit Bandhu, they declare that they will give Rs 12 lakhs. As we are already giving Rs.2000 pensions, they declare that they will give Rs 4000. Congress does not have any love for Dalits or poor people. Further, she claimed Telangana is the only state that focuses on the welfare of Dalits and the state has doubled its Per Capita Income since its formation in 2014. The only thing Congress has done is that they have made Mallikarjun Kharge as AICC Chief. They have done nothing else for Dalits, she said. Later, sharpening her attack against the BJP, which is trying to make sizable inroads into the southern state, Kavitha alleged, " BJP is the reason for the deaths of 850 farmers by bringing the three farm laws.They have copied our Rythu Bandhu scheme and implemented a similar scheme at the centre." She futher said, "BRS has already declared 115 candidates but Congress and BJP are in no situation to declare their candidates. They do not have a CM candidate. Our CM candidate is KCR. They should declare their CM candidate. They are in confusion and frustration and are thus organising these meetings and telling lies." (ANI)
Photo: The Canadian Press

A child has been acquitted of assaulting his younger stepsister after what a Quebec judge deemed to be a harmless bit of teasing.

The boy, who was 12 years old at the time, admitted to having touched his sister's thighs while the two were watching a movie one evening.

The Quebec court decision published earlier this week says the sister, who was 11 at the time, reported the incident to authorities at the request of her mother.

The case was heard by a court in Shawinigan, Que., northeast of Montreal, but the date of the incident is not included in the court ruling. Both children's names are protected by a publication ban.

Judge Genevieve Marchand says the siblings got along, but she notes a strained relationship between the children's mothers.

Marchand says the girl suffered no harm as a result of the teasing and that lack of malicious intent made a guilty verdict unjustifiable.

The judge says a declaration of guilt in this case would undermine the public's confidence in the judicial system.
Immigration officials at Delhi airport nabbed a Bangladeshi national, who had used a fake Indian passport after he was deported from South Korea for overstaying. The fraud was detected during the immigration clearance at the airport and alert staff immediately informed Delhi police about it. According to the FIR, on August 25, one Indian male passenger namely Anupam Chowdhury, a resident of Nagpur in Maharashtra, having an Indian passport arrived from South Koreaat IGI Delhi. During questioning, the passenger was found to be a Bangladeshi national. His original name is Anupam Barua is a native of Chittagong in Bangladesh. He also has a Bangladeshi passport. It was further revealed during questioning that he arrived from Bangladesh into India through Haridaspur Integrated Check Post (ICP) using his Bangladeshi passport and stayed in Kolkata for one day during transit in 2015. Then he went to Bodh Gaya in Bihar and stayed in a Buddhist monastery for two days. After that he went to Nagpur in Maharashtra and with the help of one Joy Kumar, he procured an Aadhaar card and PAN card. With the help of these documents he fraudulently obtained an Indian passport. To obtain these documents he gave Rs 20,000 to his agent (Joy Kumar). He made several round trips to Bangladesh illegally. In 2016, he went to Thailand using an Indian Passport and came back to India in 2017. Again he went to Bangladesh in 2017 using his Bangladeshi passport and came to India in 2017 via Haridaspur Border. He never went back to Bangladesh as per immigration records, reads the FIR in the matter. Later he went to South Korea using his Indian passport and worked there as a construction labourer. He was caught by local police in South Korea for overstaying and was deported to India on August 24. The accused person has been booked under the IPC section of Cheating, the Foreigners Act and Passport Act, said a senior police officer. (ANI)
In a video message posted on his X handle, the DMK chief urged Kerala and Tamil Nadu to stand together to have a Union government that treats everyone equally."

"As in the reign of Mahabali we (in our country) ought to have unity and equality again. Lets stand together to have a union government, which treats everybody equal. My heartiest Onam wishes to all dear Malayalis," he said in the video message.

Stalin's DMK is a constituent party in Opposition INDIA alliance whose third meeting is scheduled to be held over two days on August 31 and September 1 in Mumbai.

The 10-dayOnamcelebrations inKeralastarted with the Atham celebrations on August 20. It is a festival that honours King Mahabali (daitya king) and Vamana (incarnation of Lord Vishnu).

Onam celebration culminates on Thiruvonam day which is being celebrated by Malayalis all over the world today.

Onamis a harvest festival, celebrated mainly by Malayalis. The date is based on the Panchangam which falls on the 22nd NakshatraThiruvonamin the month Chingam of the Malayalam calendar, which in the Gregorian calendar falls between August-September.

Chingam is the first month according to the Malayalam calendar. The celebrations spread over 10 days mark theMalayalam New Yearand conclude withThiruvonam.

The festival is an occasion for family and friends to get together and indulge in traditional games, music and dancing. (ANI)
Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) chief Lalu Prasad Yadav along with his son and Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Tejashwi Yadav arrived in Mumbai ahead of the INDIA alliance's third meet to be held on August 31- September 1. The meeting will discuss the alliance strategies for the Lok Sabha election and the seat sharing in the states. A new logo of the INDIA alliance is also likely to be launched. The alliance is also expected to name a convener and the Bihar Chief Minister is said to be a frontrunner for the position. Nitish Kumar played a key role in bringing together the various opposition parties to form the INDIA alliance. While speaking to reporters on Sunday, Bihar CM Nitish Kumar had hinted at the possible expansion of the alliance with a few more regional parties expected to join hands with the alliance. "We will discuss the INDIA alliance's strategy for the 2024 Lok Sabha polls in Mumbai. Seat sharing and other issues are also on our agenda for the meeting. A few more political parties will join our coalition. I want to unite the maximum number of parties before the 2024 Lok Sabha polls. I am working in that direction" said Nitish Kumar Congress Leader PL Punia said that the names for the Prime Minister post for the INDIA bloc will be decided after the alliance registers victory in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. "INDIA alliance has decided that the Prime Minister will be decided after coming to power. The elected MPs will choose the PM,' the Congress leader said. A total of 26 to 27 parties are likely to participate in the third meeting of the newly formed opposition alliance in Mumbai. INDIA or Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance is a group of 26 opposition parties, including the Congress. The parties have come together to take on the National Democratic Alliance (NDA), which is led by PM Modi's Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), and prevent it from winning a third straight term at the Centre in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. The first meeting of the joint opposition convened in Patna on June 23 and the second meeting was held in Bengaluru on July 17-18. The third meeting is slated to be in Mumbai on August 31-September 1. (ANI)
Ladakh Head of Police was accompanied by Stanzin Nurboo-JKPS, Sonam Dechen-JKPS, SSP, AIG (Provision), Inspector T Dorjey and Inspector Mutuup Tashi of Police Headquarters Ladakh, visited forward areas of Galwan, Murgo, Burtse, Chhongthas and Daulat Beig Olde (DBO) in Eastern Ladakh on August 26th, and 27th 2023.

During the visit SD Singh Jamwal, interacted with ITBP and Army personnel deployed at these locations.

He lauded the security personnel for their high spirits and commitment to duties in these extremely tough conditions.

Jamwal also paid tributes to the martyrs and laid wreaths on memorials at Murgo, BDO and remembered the supreme sacrifice made by security personnel while defending our motherland.

The Ladakh Police team headed by ADGP Ladakh installed and placed Ashoka Stambh on behalf of Ladakh Police of UT Ladakh at Daulat Beig Olde (DBO) near DBO Advance Landing ground memorial and paid tribute to the martyrs along with ITBP personnel deployed at the DBO sector.

While interacting with the jawans at these posts, Jamwal enquired about their family and other welfare measures and assured them to take up any personnel problems pertaining to policing and other administrative issues back home with respective States/ UTs government authorities.

He also ensured them to take up various welfare issues and matters with concerned authorities at the proper platform for better welfare and facilities at the border posts so that they could perform duties more effectively at the border areas.

Meanwhile, Jamwal also visited Col Chewang Rinchen Setu located in eastern Ladakh.

Earlier in 2019, Col Chewang Rinchen Setu was inaugurated by Defense Minister Rajnath Singh located in eastern Ladakh at nearly 45 km from the country's border with China. (ANI)
The Delhi High Court on Tuesday dismissed a plea challenging the election of Meenakshi Lekhi (current Minister of State for External Affairs and Culture of India) from the New Delhi Constituency during the 2019 General election. The plea was moved by Ramesh, who also contested the 2019 election as an independent candidate. The bench of Justice Sanjeev Narula, while passing the Judgement in the matter said, the Court finds that the present election petition fundamentally lacks material facts, which are essential to confer it with a cause of action. Sans any underpinning material, the Petitioners broad averments are insufficient to sustain the allegations of electoral corrupt practices. Court said the petition is replete with allegations of corrupt electoral practices, it notably lacks the requisite material facts and specific details. Petitioner argues that Respondent/Minakshi Lekhi exceeded the permissible election expenditure limit of Rs. 70 lakhs, but the basis for this claim remains vague. Throughout the petition, the central contention seems to be that the Respondent understated the expenses related to election activities in the official register. However, there is a conspicuous absence of specific details highlighting the discrepancies between the declared amounts and the alleged actual expenditures, said the court. Petitioners claims appear to be predicated on conjectures and assumptions rather than on solid evidence, further added the court. Appearing for Minakshi Lekhi, Advocates Harish Pandey and Anshuman Tiwari submitted that Petitioners accusations are broad, imprecise, and lack substantial evidence or documentation supporting the claims of corrupt election practices. Petitioner Ramesh, who appeared in person and had through a plea claimed that Respondent allegedly resorted to unlawful methods to secure a win, including the casting of fraudulent votes by election staff, who impersonated legitimate voters. The affidavit presented by the Respondent, detailing her assets, did not conform to the governing rules. (ANI)
Photo: Dyke Noel

When members of the Vancouver Island aviation community heard that a 100-year-old former Spitfire pilot wanted to fly again, they jumped in to help.

George Brewster stepped into the passenger seat of a Cessna 180 float plane on Quamichan Lake in Duncan for a 30-minute tour on Saturday.

Brewster brought along his close friend Iain Brown, a teenager with whom he had bonded over their shared appreciation for poetry, aviation and Scotland.

Hes 18. Im 100. Were close friends, he said. It was a wonderful, wonderful day.

Brewster met Brown, a Scottish immigrant who moved to the Island six years ago, at church last year. Their friendship grew after they collaborated on Duncans most recent Robbie Burns Day celebration. They now hang out regularly, often meeting at the Doghouse restaurant in town.

Dyke Noel, who piloted the plane, said he was happy to take the two friends and Browns mother out for a ride. Anyone who likes to go flying, we like to help them out.

John Howroyd, a Duncan resident who hosted the flight, said Brewster is a pillar of the local community and a regular sight at air cadet and Remembrance Day events.

Hes very enthusiastic about helping young people find their way, he said.

Brewster was born in Moncton, N.B., to an aviation family of Scottish heritage. His father and his uncle both flew fighter planes in the First World War.

When the Second World War broke out, he became a member of the Royal Canadian Air Forces 416 Squadron, which flew out of Scotland for a time.

We couldnt stand idly by while innocent people were being bombed out of their home, he said.

Members of the 416 were tasked with defending Britain and would eventually assist in offensive operations such as the Dieppe Raid and fly sorties over Normandy, Arnhem, and the Rhine, according to the Air Force Association of Canada.

Though the P-51 Mustang was a bit faster and had more range, the Spitfire was Brewsters favourite aircraft. I cant imagine a nicer airplane to fly, he said. I would throw an airplane around like you wouldnt believe.

Modern planes are less nimble, he said.

Brown called Brewster a go-getter and an inspiring figure in his life.
After the central government announced a reduction in the prices of LPG cylinders by Rs 200, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi and called it a gift to the PM's sisters on Raksha Bandhan. Taking to social media, 'X' (formerly Twitter), Dhami said that the decision is a gift from the Prime Minister to the women of the country on Raksha Bandhan. "A gift to the Prime Minister's sisters on Raksha Bandhan!" Under the able leadership of respected Prime Minister Narendra Modi ji, the Union Cabinet has taken an unprecedented decision to cut the prices of domestic gas cylinders by Rs 200 while giving Rakshabandhan gifts to all the sisters of the country. At the same time, the beneficiaries of the Ujjwala Yojana will get a total subsidy of Rs 400 per cylinder. On behalf of all the people of the state, heartfelt gratitude to the respected Prime Minister for this public welfare decision," CM Dhami posted. Earlier in the day, the Union Cabinet on Tuesday decided to cut LPG domestic gas cylinder prices by Rs 200 for all users. Briefing reporters on the decision of the union cabinet, Information and Broadcasting Minister Anurag Singh Thakur said the decision is a gift from Prime Minister Narendra Modi, to the women of the country on Onam and Raksha Bandhan. The meeting of the Cabinet was chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Effective Wednesday, the price of a 14.2 kg LPG cylinder will be reduced by Rs 200 across the country. In Delhi, for instance, the decision will bring down the cost of a 14.2 kg cylinder from the existing Rs 1,103 per cylinder to Rs 903. This across-the-board reduction is in addition to the existing targeted subsidy of Rs 200 per cylinder to Ujjwala households, which will continue. Therefore, the effective price in Delhi for Ujjwala beneficiaries after this reduction will be Rs 703. It may be noted that there are more than 31 crore domestic LPG consumers, including 9.6 crore Ujjwala beneficiaries. Anurag Thakur said the current government has initiated several schemes for the development of women, including pucca houses, toilets, additional foodgrains, and Direct Benefit Transfer during the Covid pandemic. (ANI)
Iranian Ambassador to Afghanistan Hassan Kazemi Qomi strongly called upon the international community for assistance intended for Afghan refugees in Iran, reported Khaama Press. During a conversation with the United Nations representative Stefan Prieser, Qomi highlighted Iran's commitment to the cause and stressed the necessity for constructive diplomatic cooperation and a well-defined strategy to gather worldwide backing for Afghan refugees, according to Khaama Press. Taking to the social media platform 'X', Qomi tweeted, "The development of diplomacy with the United Nations in the framework of the national development plan and the definition of a specific road map to attract international support for Afghan refugees is one of the important issues pursued by Iran." Moreover, Qomi also disclosed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Iran and the United Nations Population Fund to train Afghans in heathcare sector, reported Khaama Press. Qomi added that Sathya Doraiswamy, UNFPA Representative in Iran, and Abolfazl Bagherifard, Deputy Minister for Education at the Health Ministry, signed the memorandum. As per the statement, the MoU aimed at enhancing the skills of Afghan nurses and midwives. According to the statement, the memorandum aims to enhance the skills of Afghan nurses and midwives. The severe humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan and the escalating poverty levels have resulted in increased migration and challenges with regard to unemployment and residency issues in neighbouring nations. This has resulted in some migrants returning to Afghanistan voluntarily. Since the Taliban seized power in Afghanistan, the majority of Afghans have sought migration due to security reasons, prosecution, lack of job opportunities and the economic situation amid a severe humanitarian crisis in the country. Earlier today,the Taliban-led Ministry of Refugees and Repatriations of Afghanistan has said that more than 700 Afghan refugees have returned from Iran, Afghanistan-based Khaama Press reported. Amid the dire need for humanitarian aid in Afghanistan, the International Rescue Committee (IRC) said that almost 30 million people are in serious need of assistance as funding shortfalls jeopardize the humanitarian response after the Taliban took over in Afghanistan, TOLO News reported. The IRC moreover, warned that the shortfall in humanitarian aid for Afghanistan has contributed to a 60 percent increase in the number of people in need, along with economic collapse, climate change, and reduced access to basic services. (ANI)
Filmmaker Vivek Agnihotri, whose upcoming film The Vaccine War' is set to hit the theatres in September, has termed the success of Chandryaan-3 a victory of women scientists in India. Director Agnihotri made these remarks at a special screening of The Vaccine War in the US. I think Indian science is now evolving and is getting on the world map and it is happening only because of women scientists, he said while speaking to ANI. "I'm elated, I almost had tears in my eyes. Again the same story, like my film (The Vaccine War). Mostly women, whom the West does not consider empowered because of a variety of reasons... It's a great victory for Indian women and Indian science, he said. He also said that how despite low resources and India being considered a country lacking in the race for science, it has become a leading force in space. Despite having very low resources and not much experience, we are trying to become a self-reliant country. The same country which was not even considered in the science race a few decades ago, today is a leading force. Whether it's bioscience, rocket science or ocean science, We are the largest solar power-producing country in the world today. I think Indian science is now evolving and is getting on the world map and it is happening only because of our women scientists," Agnihotri added. India took a giant leap on August 23, as the Chandrayaan-3 lander module successfully landed on the moons South pole, making it the first country to have achieved the historic feat. The country became the fourth after the US, China, and Russia to have successfully landed on the moons surface. Meanwhile, the Pragyan rover rolled out of Chandrayaan-3 Vikram landers belly and moved on the lunar surface began doing its set experiments and subsequently relayed them back to ISRO headquarters. The Vaccine War is about how India made the Covid vaccines under unprecedented challenges, and later provided them free of cost to many countries throughout the world that were in dire need of this vaccine. The movie celebrates the power of the fiercely driven and motivated women scientists of India who worked day and night to produce the COVID-19 vaccine. We are looking forward to a great success of Vaccine War, said Mohan Wanchoo, organiser for the show in New York. Based on the reaction of people who have seen it, The Vaccine War could be another blockbuster for Vivek Agnihotri like his earlier National award winner The Kashmir Files, he added. Vivek is a brilliant and bold filmmaker, Al Mason, a prominent Indian American voice told ANI. The director is currently on an India for Humanity Tour, USA and screening his movie before a select audience in various cities including Washington DC, New York, LA, Houston and more. 'The Vaccine War' will narrate the tale of the triumph of scientists and 130 crore people who fought the battle in the Covid-19 era. Agnihotri unveiled the film's teaser on social media earlier this month. The brief teaser gave a glimpse of the activities of scientists involved with the BBV152 vaccine, also known as Covaxin, developed by Bharat Biotech in partnership with the Indian Council of Medical Research National Institute of Virology. Actors like Nana Patekar, Anupam Kher and Pallavi Joshi headline the film. (ANI)
A faculty member of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill was shot dead on campus on Monday afternoon, and a suspect has been taken into custody, according to a school spokesman, CNN reported. The incident caused people to seek shelter for several hours while police investigated. At 1:02 pm ET, shots were reportedly fired at the school's Caudill Laboratories. Shortly after 2:30 pm, Chancellor Kevin Guskiewicz confirmed that a suspect had been taken into custody. The suspect's and the faculty member's names were not right away disclosed. UNC Police Chief Brian James stated on Monday night that it was still too early to determine the motive behind the shooting, according to CNN. We really want to know the why in this case and what led to it, James said, adding that the gun used in the shooting had not been found. This loss is devastating and the shooting damages the trust and safety that we so often take for granted in our campus community. We will work to rebuild that sense of trust and safety within our community, Guskiewicz said, as reported by CNN. Around 1 pm, the school had sent out a warning to the students instructing them to take cover, later adding that a suspect was still at large. Later on in the afternoon, the university gave the "all clear". According to officials, classes and campus events on Monday and Tuesday were cancelled. The school's second week of the fall semester is currently underway. Around 32,000 students attend the university, together with over 4,000 faculty members and 9,000 staff personnel, CNN reported. (ANI)
Art of Living, Founder, Sri Sri Ravi Shankar has called the successful landing of ISROs Chandrayaan-3 a proud moment and also hailed the role of women scientists in the mission. He said, Its a very emotional moment that we landed on the Moon and already we have started receiving the picture and possibilities are many from this." Spiritual leader, Ravi Shankar was in Washington, DC, holding a press conference in relation to the World Culture Festival, which is coming to America for the very first time. From September 29 to October 1, the three-day festival will be held at the National Mall, hosted by the Art of Living founder, Ravi Shankar, along with Mayor Muriel Bowser. Responding to a question, on Chadrayaan-3s success, put forward by ANI, Ravi Shankar said, It's a proud moment for not just India, but entire humanity, that we could very successfully with such short duration and with a small budget, an exploration of Chandrayaan-3 has happened and women power has been very predominant there. So many women have worked for this mission and that's something so touching, he added. In relation to the ISROs upcoming Aditya L1 mission, Ravi Shankar said that it would also be successful like the previous one. The spiritual Guru also shared that a day before he spoke to S Somanath, Chairperson of ISRO, and told him all will go well and all our prayers are with him. Speaking on the democracy in India, he said, India is the oldest and the largest democracy. Even in small villages where there are only 5,000-7,000 population, there are people coming up and working. There is a lot more awareness of franchises in India than you can see anywhere else. So in that sense, yes, it's a robust democracy. Elaborating on World Culture Festival 2023, he said that the main focus of the fest would be mental health issues. Meanwhile, DC mayor Muriel Bowser has expressed excitement about the fest, saying, We are incredibly excited and proud to announce that Washington DC will host the fourth World Culture Festival in 2023. From September 29 to October 1, we will come together on the National Mall for a celebration of culture, diversity and unity. (ANI)
US President Joe Biden will reaffirm US commitment to the G20 as the premier forum of economic cooperation globally and will also speak about a range of issues, including the social effects of Russia's war in Ukraine, the White House said on Tuesday. White House press secretary, Karine Jean Pierre made the remarks during a media briefing.Announcing the Presidents schedule, Pierre said that Biden will travel to Hanoi, Vietnam, on September 10 following his participation in the G20 Summit in New Delhi. Responding to a question on topline goals President Biden hopes to accomplish at G20, the White House press secretary said, President Biden will reaffirm the US commitment to the G20 as the premier forum of economic cooperation globally. She also said that President Biden will discuss a range of joint efforts to tackle global issues, from the clean energy transition and combating climate change to mitigating the economic and social impacts of Russias war in Ukraine, to increasing the capacity of the multilateral development banks to better fight poverty and take on the significant transnational challenges that are afflicting countries across the world. US President Joe Biden will travel to India on a four-day visit to attend the G20 Leaders Summit in September in New Delhi during which he will discuss joint efforts to tackle global issues like climate change, including the Ukraine war with member nations, White House confirmed in a statement on August 22. It said Biden and G20 partners will also discuss clean energy transition and combating climate change increasing the capacity of multilateral development banks. India is set to host G20 Summit on September 9 and 10. Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the US in June, where Biden had said he was looking forward to the G20 summit in September in New Delhi. While in New Delhi, President Biden will also commend Prime Minister Modis leadership of the G20 and reaffirm the US commitment to the G20 as the premier forum of economic cooperation, including by hosting it in 2026, the White House announced earlier on August 22. President Joseph R Biden, Jr will travel to New Delhi, India, from September 7-10 to attend the G20 Leaders Summit, the White House statement read. President Biden and G20 partners will discuss a range of joint efforts to tackle global issues, including the clean energy transition and combatting climate change, mitigating the economic and social impacts of Putins war in Ukraine, and increasing the capacity of multilateral development banks, including the World Bank, to better fight poverty, including by addressing global challenges, it added. India assumed the G20 presidency for a year from December 1, 2022, to November 30, 2023, and has been hosting several meetings across the country. (ANI)
Details indicate that Nawaz Sharif's security guard was the subject of a police complaint in London for acting aggressively and abusing reporters who had gathered at Hussain Nawaz's office to report on the upcoming meeting between the Sharif brothers in London.

The journalist claimed that the former prime minister's bodyguard used profane words and offensive gestures. He hoped that the police would punish the culprits severely.

It is important to note that the security guard for PML-N leader Nawaz Sharif mistreated Pakistani journalists and yelled insults at them for capturing Shehbaz Sharif's arrival on camera.

Pakistani media representatives showed up at Nawaz Sharif's London home to cover Shehbaz's arrival for a crucial meeting. The journalists began taping Shehbaz's video as soon as he arrived, but the security guard intervened and mistreated them, as reported by ARY News.

The security guy could be seen yelling insults and threatening the journalists in the footage. He was repeatedly told by the journalists that they were merely going about their business, but the security guy seemed unconvinced.

The media asked that Nawaz Sharif take notice of the situation and denounce the security guard's bad behaviour.

In order to consult with Nawaz before the general elections and to finalize the PML-N Quaid's return to Pakistan, Shehbaz Sharif had travelled to London, ARY News reported. (ANI)
Re. PM says feds will 'be there' (Castanet, Aug. 25)

I had time to listen to Justin Trudeau's speech to the emergency officials in West Kelowna.

Like the finger his father Pierre gave B.C. and all of Western Canada, Justin spoke half in French with no interpreter. Just another way to show the peasants out here how superior, informed and clever he is.

Throughout the talk he referred to being in Kelowna, while standing in front of a sign saying West Kelowna. Clearly he was not informed where the major fire was, or who he was speaking to.

He would not make that error standing in Gateneau and calling it Ottawa because that would alienate voters.

The key issue was he offered nothing to help now, nothing to support evacuees from other disasters who are still out of their homes, lost business and lost communities. What a waste of time.

It was only a photo op for him, a chance to show Quebec, Ontario and the Laurentian clique he looks good on the campaign trail.

All this (travel) by a Canadian Air Force jet wasting fuel, time and personal protection resources that would be better spent on housing, the homelessness or the opioid crisis.

Justin is so wasteful and incompetent at governing, it is amazing how skillful he is at hoodwinking voters.

Shameful performance to this audience.

Doug Waines, West Kelowna
The youngest Indian-Origin Republican presidential candidate, Vivek Ramaswamy has received a notice from Marshall B. Mathers III, better known as the rapper Eminem for using his music in election campaigning, The New York Times reported on Monday. According to The New York Times, the licensing arm of Matherss record company, BMI, informed the Ramaswamy campaign in a letter dated Wednesday and reprinted in The Daily Mail on Monday that BMI will consider any performance of the Eminem works by the Vivek 2024 campaign from this date forward to be a material breach of the firms licensing rules, for which BMI reserves all rights and remedies with respect thereto. This comes after the Ramaswamy broke into an impromptu version of Eminems Lose Yourself at the Iowa State Fair. The 38-year-old Ramaswamy while campaigning started performing rap when an enterprising sound technician played the song Lose Yourself. Vivek just got on the stage and cut loose, his campaign spokeswoman, Tricia McLaughlin, said on Monday. To the American peoples chagrin, we will have to leave the rapping to the real Slim Shady, another of Mr. Matherss noms de plume. Earlier this year, Ramaswamy announced his 2024 US presidential election bid. The 37-year-old Vivek Ramaswamy is a native of southwest Ohio. His mother was a geriatric psychiatrist and his father worked as an engineer at General Electric. Ramaswamy was born on August 9, 1985, and raised in Cincinnati, Ohio. His parents migrated to the US from Kerala. He is the second Indian-American to enter the 2024 Republican presidential primary after Nikki Haley. He is the fourth Indian-American ever to run for the White House --Bobby Jindal ran in 2016 and Vice President Kamala Harris in 2020. Ramaswamy joined the Republican field following ex-US President Donald Trump and former South Carolina governor and former ambassador to the United Nations Nikki Haley's presidential bid announcement. A second-generation Indian American, Ramaswamy founded Roivant Sciences in 2014 and led the largest biotech IPOs of 2015 and 2016, eventually culminating in successful clinical trials in multiple disease areas that led to FDA-approved products, according to his bio. Before entering the presidential ballot, Ramaswamy has to win the Republican Party's presidential primary which will start in January next year. The next US presidential election is scheduled to be held on November 5, 2024. (ANI)
This comes after the Sri Lankan Court issued an order for their release and asked security forces to initiate the process.

Earlier on August 22, Sri Lankan fishermen association said, these fishermen were arrested by the Sri Lankan Navy for allegedly engaging in "illegal fishing" in Sri Lankan waters.

The fishermen from Tamil Nadu who left Thoothukudi were arrested while they were engaged in cross-border fishing in the Mullaitivu waters of Sri Lanka. The 10 arrested fishermen and their boats were being taken to Trincomalee port.

The families of these fishermen and locals from the fishermen community in Rameswaram had petioned the state and the Centre to intervene in the matter and hold talks with the Sri Lanka Government.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin even wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi regarding the struggles of the fishermen community when they venture into the sea for fishing.

Prior to this, nine fishermen travelling in a boat from the coastal district of Tamil Nadu have been arrested for allegedly trespassing and fishing in Sri Lankan waters. Rameswaram Police said the arrested fishermen from Nagapattinam are being taken to Trincomalee port.

Earlier this month, the Sri Lankan Navy rescued six Indian fishermen who were stranded after their boat drifted in Lankan waters due to a glitch. Fishermen hailing from Tamil Nadu's Rameswaram went into the sea for fishing.

Around 532 boats from Rameswaram fishing harbour left for the sea. But the boat owned by Sagear Pandian developed a mechanical snag in the Palk Bay area, the Indian-Sri Lankan sea border. (ANI)
China has officially released the 2023 edition of its standard map, which shows the state of Arunachal Pradesh and the Aksai Chin region as part of its territory. The map released on August 28 shows Arunachal Pradesh which China claims as South Tibet and Aksai Chin occupied by it in the 1962 war as part of its territory. Taiwan and the disputed South China Sea are also included within the Chinese territory in the new map. The map also incorporates China's claims over the nine-dash line thus laying claim to a large part of the South China Sea. Vietnam, thePhilippines, Malaysia, and Brunei have all claims over the South China Sea areas. The map was released by Chinas Ministry of Natural Resources during the celebration of Surveying and Mapping Publicity Day and the National Mapping Awareness Publicity Week on Monday in Deqing county, Zhejiang province, as per China Daily newspaper. Recently Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Xi Jinping met on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit in Johannesburg, South Africa. Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra had said in his conversation with President Xi Jinping, Prime Minister Modi highlighted India's concerns on unresolved issues along the Line of Actual Control in the Western Sector of the India-China border areas. "The Prime Minister underlined that maintenance of peace and tranquillity in the border areas and observing and respecting the LAC are essential for the normalisation of theIndia-Chinarelationship. In this regard, two leaders agreed to direct their relevant officials to intensify efforts at expeditious disengagement and de-escalation," Kwatra had said. According to China Daily, an English-language daily newspaper owned by the Central Propaganda Department of the Chinese Communist Party, the The chief planner of Chinas Ministry of Natural Resources, Wu Wenzhong, said surveying, mapping and geographic information play an important role in boosting the development of the nation, meeting the needs of all walks of life, supporting the management of natural resources, and helping the construction of ecology and civilization. "The next step will be to accelerate the application of geographic information data such as digital maps and navigation and positioning in the development of the digital economy, such as location-based services, precision agriculture, platform economy and intelligent connected vehicles," Wu said, as per China Daily. Zhejiang has in recent years focused on the deep integration of the digital and real economies and has continued to promote the development of the digital economy, according to Li Yaowu, deputy secretary-general of the Zhejiang Provincial People's Government. China has territorial disputes with more countries than it shares its borders with. The Chinese Communist Party, the CCP, with Xi Jinping at the helm, has used deceitful tactics and manipulation in order to attempt to assert territorial control over other sovereign territories. Beijing has flouted all international norms in its expansionist bid to control more territory. Chinahas now staked claims on parts ofIndia's northeastern state of Arunachal Pradesh, arguing that these locations were part of greater Tibet. A desperate Beijing had in April this year unilaterally renamed as many as 11Indian locations, which included names of mountain peaks, rivers and residential areas. This is not the first time that Beijing has employed such tactics. Previously in 2017 and 2021,China's Civil Affair Ministry had renamed otherIndian locations triggering another political confrontation. New Delhi called outChina's expansionist plans then. Previously, the official spokesperson for the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Arindam Bagchi, while commenting on China's attempt to show its domination in places belonging to India's Arunachal Pradesh said: "This is not the first time that China has attempted something like this (changing the names of areas in Arunachal Pradesh) and we have already condemned any such attempts. Regarding Arunachal Pradesh, we had also said that Arunachal Pradesh is an inseparable part of India) and imposing invented names like these will not at all change the reality." (ANI)
A Pakistan court on Tuesday directed authorities to release Imran Khan on bail after it suspended the conviction and jail term of the countrys former Prime Minister in a case involving state gifts. The Islamabad High Court (IHC) has suspended the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf Chairmans conviction and three-year jail sentence in the Toshakhana case, Dawn news reported today. The bench comprising Chief Justice Aamer Farooq and Justice Tariq Mehmood Jahangiri on the former prime ministers appeal against his prison term announced the much-anticipated order, that comes months ahead of the national elections in the country. According to Dawn News, the trial court in Islamabad had convicted the PTI chief in the case filed by the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) that involved concealing details of state gifts and jailed him for three years. The verdict meant he was disqualified from contesting general elections for five years. Imran had subsequentlyfiled an appealin the high court against his conviction. He had also approached the Supreme Court (SC) against the IHCs decision toremandthe case back to the trial court judge who had convicted him. Pakistan district and sessions court on August 5, sentenced Imran Khan to three years in prison in the Toshakhana case i.e. for illegally selling state gifts and disqualified him from politics for a period of five years, local media reported. He was lodged in Attock Jail in Punjab province in the country. The PTI Chairman was arrested from his Zaman Park residence in Lahore soon after being convicted in the Toshakhana case. The court also imposed a fine of Pakistani Rupees (PKR) 100,000 on Imran Khan, Geo News reported. Khan, who has expressed his disappointment over being in jail and said that he doesn't want to stay there, Pakistan-based Geo News reported. The PTI Chairman Imran Khan had also stated that he remains holed up inside his prison cell in "distressing" conditions, as per the sources. (ANI)
After a day of arrest of human rights lawyer Imaan Mazari, Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) in Islamabad granted her three-day physical remand to the Islamabad police in a terror case registered against her in the federal capital's Barakahu Police Station, reported The News International. The decision came after the additional district and sessions judge, Abual Hasnat, approved prosecutor Raja Naveed plea seeking physical remand for Imaan Mazari. ATC Judge Abual Hasnat approved Mazari's physical remand on the prosecutor's appeal, according to The News International. Earlier on Monday, Imaan was arrested in a new terror case from outside Adiala Jail in Rawalpindi soon after an ATC court approved Mazari's and Pashtun Tahafuz Movement (PTM) leader Ali Wazir's bails in a sedition case pertaining to the controversial speech against state institutions. In a statement, Mazaris lawyer said the police did not inform them about the case in which Mazari had been arrested. The judge allowed Imaan to meet her mother Shireen Mazari in the courtroom right before ordering the remand. However, Imaan's counsel, Zainab Janjua opposed the police's request for her client's remand. It is not necessary for a suspect to be kept in custody in the kind of investigation that the police want to conduct, she said, according to The News International. The Supreme Court said that it is not necessary to arrest the suspect in every case. Imaan Mazari is a lawyer herself, she is not running away, she said, adding that booking her client in the terror case for victimization. On August 20, Ali Wazir and Imaan Zainab Mazari-Hazir were arrested and sent on physical remand after they were accused of making controversial remarks at the PTM's public rally. Ali Wazir and Imaan Zainab Mazari-Hazir were booked on charges of sedition, preventing government officials from doing their duties and damaging public property, according to Geo News reported. During the hearing on Monday, Prosecutor Raja Naveed said that over 1,000 people were present at the rally where Imaan Mazari made the controversial remarks against state institutions. During the hearing on August 24, Imaan Zainab Mazari-Hazir and Ali Wazir were produced before the ATC judge after the prosecutor requested for extension in their remand, according to Geo News report. The prosecutor said that the voice matching and photogrammetry of Imaan Hazari and Ali Wazir had been completed. The investigating officer said that Imaan Mazari was given a piece of paper from which she made the speech. (ANI)
Aden Bare Duale received a Guard of Honour in Delhi. He was received by Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh.

A wreath was also laid by Brazilian Army General Toms Miguel Min Ribeiro Paiva.

The Brazilian Army General also received a Guard of Honour.

Kenya's Cabinet Secretary for Defence, Aden Bare Duale, on Monday arrived in New Delhi on a three-day visit to India.

During his stay inIndia, he will hold talks with hisIndian counterpart, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, on Tuesday. The visiting dignitary is expected to visitIndian shipyards and defence industries in Goa and Bengaluru, according to the statement released by the Ministry of Defence.

This is the maiden visit of Cabinet Secretary Duale toIndiaand the highest-level stand-alone political visit fromKenyasince the new government assumed office in September 2022.

"The visit is indicative of the importanceIndiaattaches to its relations with African nations and the growing cooperation betweenIndiaandKenya, in particular. It is expected to open new avenues for further strengthening defence cooperation between the two countries," the statement read.

IndiaandKenyaare maritime neighbours with robust and multi-faceted partnerships, marked by regular high-level visits, increasing trade and investment and extensive people-to-people contacts.

Meanwhile, Brazilian Army General Toms Paiva is on a weeklong visit to India. His visit highlights India, and Brazils growing interest in strengthening the military cooperation between the two.

Paivas India visit holds strategic importance as it is an important step towards enhancing defence relations and exploring collaborative opportunities in various realms of security and military technology.

During his visit, Paiva will meet senior defence officials and visit key locations in India that hold significance in the context of defence cooperation. He will travel to Bengaluru, Jodhpur, and Jaisalmer. (ANI)
Norway's new Ambassador to India, May-Elin Stener presented her credentials to President Droupadi Murmu on Tuesday and said that she is looking forward to immersing herself in various facets of India as the country is culturally diverse. The envoy expressed her commitment to further strengthen the partnership between India and Norway during her tenure. I am extremely happy to finally be in India and look forward to experiencing this vast and diverse country. I believe Norway and India share a strong bond together, and I hope to further strengthen the partnership during my tenure. India is culturally diverse and I look forward to immersing myself into its various facets. Thank you for a warm welcome, India, an official release of the Norwegian Embassy in India quoted Stener as saying after she presented her credentials to President Droupadi Murmu at the Rashtrapati Bhawan today Norway and India share a strong and growing bilateral relationship in areas including the ocean, energy and environment. Stener presented her credentials to President Murmu a day after her arrival in India. "Norway and India share a strong and growing bilateral relationship in areas including the ocean, energy and environment. Bilateral trade between both countries has doubled in recent years. The Norwegian Sovereign Wealth Fund is likely one of Indias largest single foreign investors (around USD 17.6 billion)," the official release read. So far, Norways new Climate Investment Fund has invested 7 billion INR (974 million NOK) in renewables in India. "There are around 200 Norwegian companies operating in India, and over 20,000 Indians live in Norway, making people-to-people linkages deep and strong," the release added. Earlier today, President Droupadi Murmu received credentials from the envoys of four countries in a ceremony held at Rashtrapati Bhavan. Apart from the Ambassador of Norway, President Murmu accepted the credentials from the envoys of Estonia, Ukraine, and Burkina Faso as well. At the ceremony held at Rashtrapati Bhavan, the President accepted credentials from the Ambassador of the Kingdom of Norway, May-Elin Stener, the Ambassador of the Republic of Estonia, Marje Luup, the Ambassador of Ukraine, Oleksandr Polishchuk, and the Ambassador of Burkina Faso, Desire Boniface Some. (ANI)
India and New Zealand are holding discussions on the possible introduction of the Unified Payment Interface system in the island nation to promote ease of doing business, the commerce ministry said on Tuesday. This was discussed during a bilateral meeting between Piyush Goyal, Minister of Commerce and Industry, Textile and Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution of India and Hon Damien OConnor, Minister for Trade and Export Growth of New Zealand. The two ministers have agreed to "continue deliberations" on the matter as it would promote ease of doing business between the two countries and promote trade and tourism as well, as per the joint statement issued after the meeting. "Ministers welcomed early discussions between the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) and Payments NZ regarding the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) system and agreed that both sides should continue deliberations on this issue," the statement mentioned. UPI is an instant payment system developed by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI). It powers multiple bank accounts into a single mobile application, merging several banking features, seamless fund routing, and merchant payments into one. During the meeting, the two ministers acknowledged the strong step-up in engagement between businesses in the two countries, and the desirability of ensuring this provides impetus to the government-to-government dialogue. The importance of the annual meeting of the Joint Trade Committee (JTC), established under the 1986 India-New Zealand Trade Agreement, and regular engagement at a senior level was also acknowledged, the statement noted. They also held discussion on improving air connectivity between New Zealand and India, while welcoming the finalisation of the Memorandum of Understanding to further liberalise the bilateral Air Services Agreement between the two countries. They also noted the "excellent cooperation" between India and New Zealand as part of the membership of both the countries in Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity. "New Zealand and India enjoy strong people-to-people linkages; these extend over a range of activities including commerce, education, and tourism. People of Indian origin in New Zealand are making a strong contribution to all aspects of society. These linkages provide a strong base for advancing our economic cooperation," the joint statement mentioned. In committing to strengthening the trade and economic relationship, Ministers mentioned the intention of both the countries to test new and innovative approaches to economic partnership and that new initiatives should focus on encouraging, facilitating and coordinating collaboration of technology and expertise for genuine mutual benefit. The opportunities in each others markets, which is of interest to businesses of both the countries, should be explored. It noted the increase in engagement between both the countries under a collaborative approach that engages officials from across relevant government departments and the private sector, wherever appropriate. The broad and informal engagements are aimed at fresh ideas for new, innovative and productive areas for partnership between both the countries. (ANI)
Photo: The Canadian Press Items are seen on the ground as paramedics from B.C. Ambulance respond to a drug overdose in downtown Vancouver, Wednesday, June 23, 2021. British Columbia is on pace for the deadliest year in its unregulated toxic-drug crisis, with the BC Coroners Service saying another 198 deaths were reported in July. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Jonathan Hayward

British Columbia is on pace for the deadliest year in its unregulated toxic-drug crisis, with the BC Coroners Service saying another 198 deaths were reported in July.

The Interior Health region saw 45 deaths last month, the highest rate per 100,000 residents of any region in July.

The Coroners Service says there have been at least 1,455 deaths province-wide in the first seven months of 2023, the most ever recorded.

So far this year, there have been 59 drug deaths in Kelowna, 59 in Kamloops, 27 in Vernon and 13 in Penticton.

Chief Coroner Lisa Lapointe says in a statement that the unregistered illicit drug market is "highly unpredictable," and the lack of access to stable, lower-risk alternatives continues to put lives at risk.

Provincial Mental Health and Addictions Minister Jennifer Whiteside says in a statement the new numbers are "a stark reminder" of the ongoing drug crisis, and the province is continuing to expand access to treatment options and counselling.

Opposition BC United MLA Elenore Sturko says in a post on the social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter, that "condolences alone aren't enough" and she is calling for a "recovery-oriented" care system.

She says a third of the province's fatal overdoses in July happened inside social housing, shelters and hotels.

with files from Colin Dacre
The Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) on Tuesday approached the Supreme Court to direct the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) to ensure conducting the elections within 90 days of the dissolution of the National Assembly, Pakistan-based ARY News reported. JI leader Liaquat Baloch filed the petition in the apex court. The petition filed by the JI leader requested the court to direct ECP to ensure holding the general elections in Pakistan within 90 days. This is the third such petition filed in the Supreme Court of Pakistan, ARY News reported. Earlier, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) and Supreme Court Bar Association President Abid S Zubairi had filed the same petition in the Supreme Court. The plea had requested the Supreme Court to direct the ECP to release the schedule for the upcoming general elections. The petitioner requested the apex court to declare the CCP decision regarding the delimitation and the census 2023 null and void, according to ARY News report. The ECP had said that general elections are not possible within 90 days. Pakistan's electoral watchdog said that it has taken the decision to conduct the upcoming general election on the census 2023. The ECP stated that the commission is bound to hold the delimitation process and the first publication will be released on October 9, ARY News reported. It further said that the final publication will be on December 14. Earlier,Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) filed a petition in the Supreme Court (SC) to stop the delay of the general election, ARY News reported. According to the details, PTI argued against an election delay before the Supreme Court. The president should announce the election date within 90 days, according to the argument made before the Supreme Court. The argument was made that the Supreme Court needed to order the ECP to publish the general election schedule as well. The CCI judgment regarding the delimitation and the census 2023 was recommended to be declared invalid by the Supreme Court. The forthcoming general elections must be held within 90 days, according to a previous order from the Lahore High Court (LHC), according to ARY News. Regarding the announcement of the election date, LHC sent notices to the Pakistani Election Commission and the President's Principal Secretary. All political parties, however, agreed to hold general elections based on the results of the most recent census, according to a statement from the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP). (ANI)
Nepal Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal will embark on a visit to China at the end of next month, following his visit to the United States to address the United Nations General Assembly session. PM Dahal informed the parliament that the "new border points and follow-up on earlier accords" will be on the agenda during his visit to Beijing. During my scheduled visit to China, talks about opening new border points between Nepal and China have been finalized. The Nara Lagna border point in Mugu, I am aware about the issue as being informed from the local authorities as well as the locals from the district, I will attempt to make a decision over it, Prime Minister Dahal said while replying to a question raised by lawmaker Aain Bahadur Shahi. In response to another question raised by lawmaker Uday Shumsher JB Rana, PM Dahal said, During the visit, enforcements of accords and understandings signed earlier will be given priority. The economic relation between the countries would be further enhanced through the operationalization of the border points between the two nations and opening of new border points are agendas of the visit. Meanwhile, the Nepal PM is scheduled to visit the United States in the second week of September to address the UNGA (United Nations General Assembly) on September 22. After addressing the 78th session of the UNGA, he is expected to fly to China but the cabinet is yet to approve it. During his visit to New York, the Nepal premier will also participate in various meetings including the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Summit on September 18-19 in the capacity of being the current chair of the least developed countries. (ANI)
The United States is not seeking to decouple from Chinas economy or hold it back, US Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo told senior Chinese economic officials in Beijing, CNN reported on Tuesday. The US-China commercial relationship is one of the most globally consequential, and managing that relationship responsibly is critical to both our nations and indeed to the whole world, Raimondo told a group of officials, including Vice Premier He Lifeng, during her second day of meetings in the country. She added, And while we will, never of course compromise in protecting our national security, I want to be clear that we do not seek to decouple or to hold Chinas economy back. Raimondo further emphasized that point a few hours later, during her meeting with Chinese Premier Li Qiang. President Biden asked me to come here to convey the message that we do not seek to decouple, she told Li. We seek to maintain our USD 700 billion commercial relationship with China, CNN reported. In response, the Chinese premier said that he hoped the two countries could strengthen communication and maintain the health of US-China economic relations. Only through dialogue can we understand each others concerns, find common ground and increase the possibility of cooperation, CNN quoted Li as saying. Economic and trade relations are the ballast for Sino-US relations, he added. A well-maintained economic and trade relationship is beneficial to both [our] countries and the whole world. In reply to Li, Raimondo further stated, We hope that commercial relationship can provide stability for the overall relationship. She also said the US hoped to work with China on other areas of concern, such as climate change, artificial intelligence as well as Americas fentanyl crisis. Earlier, Vice Premier He, the head of Chinas powerful economic planning agency, noted that Chinese President Xi Jinping and US President Joe Biden met in Bali last November where they had reached an important consensus for the development of bilateral relations, CNN reported. He said that he hoped the US would work with China to adopt rational and practical practices and put the leaders recommendations into practice. He added that he was ready to work with Raimondo. Earlier on Tuesday, Raimondo had met with Culture and Tourism Minister Hu Heping. The two agreed to advance people-to-people ties through increased tourism as well as educational and student exchanges, according to Raimondo. Notably, the US commerce secretarys visit to China is the fourth by a Biden official in three months. It comes as the two sides seek to stabilize rocky relations. Her visit also coincides with a worsening slowdown in the worlds second-largest economy, CNN reported. Chinas growth forecasts have been downgraded by economists as exports and foreign investment slump, a real estate crisis deepens and worries spread about its general financial health. From Beijings perspective, Raimondos department has played a key role in a number of areas, including restricting semiconductor exports, that have been the source of mounting friction, as per CNN. On Monday, Raimondo said it was profoundly important that the US and China have a stable economic relationship. She added that the majority of US-China trade did not impact national security concerns, and it was possible to promote and protect US trade and security at the same time. The US also announced on Monday that the two sides would establish new channels of communication for economic issues, including a working group composed of officials and businesses from both countries and a mechanism to exchange information on US export control enforcement, according to CNN. Meanwhile, despite US officials visiting China, there have been several occasions, when Beijing and Washington have been at loggerheads. Earlier this month, in a scathing attack on China, Biden had described Xis China as a ticking time bomb citing economic concerns. In June, Biden had even called XI a dictator. Both statements were denounced by Beijing. In another major decision, the Biden administration imposed restrictions on US investment in high-tech areas in China and barred exports of advanced microchips. A few weeks ago, Washington in a joint statement after the trilateral summit between the US, Japan and South Korea had also denounced the dangerous and aggressive actions by China in the Indo-Pacific region and opposed attempts to change the status quo in Indo-Pacific. However, despite the tensions, US President Joe Biden has said that he is still hopeful of meeting his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping later this year. The two leaders are expected to meet in November this year, on the sidelines of an Asian leaders summit hosted by Biden. Notably, Biden and Xi last spoke in person on the sidelines of the G20 summit in Bali last November. (ANI)
Dubai [UAE], August 29 (ANI/WAM): Dubais private school sector continues to see robust growth with the addition of five new private schools in the 2023-24 school academic year. According to the latest data released by the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA), the new schools, offering British and Indian curricula, have added 12,000 seats, further enhancing the strong momentum of Dubais education landscape. Currently, Dubai is home to a total of 220 private schools, which enrolled over 326,000 students in the 2022-23 academic year. In recent years, the emirates education landscape has seen rapid expansion and diversification with the launch of new schools representing a wide range of curricula from across the world. The last four years alone have seen the establishment of 27 new private schools, further adding to the richness and depth of the sector. Abdulla Al Karam, Director General of the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA), said: The increase in the number of private schools further supports the leaderships vision to create one of the worlds leading private education sectors. The addition of five new schools in the 2023-24 academic year is testament to the dynamism of the sector and the solid investment environment offered in Dubai. KHDA is keen to work closely with the education community to meet the needs of Dubais growing population and expand the capacity of the private school sector. We are also committed to ensuring that the world-class education provided in Dubai enhances its status as one of the worlds best cities to live, work and invest in. Dubais private schools currently offer a total of 17 curricula representing diverse countries, languages and educational methodologies, reflecting the citys status as an attractive global investment and lifestyle destination and its inclusive and cosmopolitan ethos. British curricula account for the highest share of syllabi with 36 per cent followed by India with 25 per cent, US with 15 per cent and International Baccalaureate (IB) with 7 per cent. Dubai is also home to private schools that offer Chinese, Japanese, German, French, Australian, Spanish and Filipino curricula, among others. (ANI/WAM)
The Lahore Accountability Court has extended the physical remand of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) President Chaudhry Parvez Elahi till September 2, Pakistan-based ARY News reported. According to the details, Elahi was presented before the accountability court judge Sajid Ali Awan after completion of physical remand. In the court, the former Punjab Chief Minister said that he is 77 years old and a heart patient. However, he is not allowed to meet his family members and do therapy, ARY News reported. Meanwhile, the National Accountability Board prosecutor requested the court to grant a 14-day physical remand to carry out a probe of his alleged corruption in 200 development projects in Mandi Bahauddin and Gujrat, according to ARY News report. The court extended the physical remand of Pervaiz Elahi and ordered him to appear before the court on September 2. Earlier on August 21, Chaudhry Parvez Elahis physical remand was extended by the Lahore Accountability Court (LAC) till August 29, ARY News reported. The remand was extended in a corruption case related to certain development projects. Authorities from the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) brought Elahi before Accountability Court Judge Zubair Shahid Kiyani, who oversaw the corruption case involving Punjab's former CM, according to ARY News. The attorney for Chaudhry Parvez Elahi, Amjad Pervez, told the court that despite the Supreme Court's order for the High Court to decide on Pervez Elahi's bail today, the case had not yet been heard. As a result, he asked for the hearing to be postponed. In the court, Chaudhry Parvez Elahi said that his legs were swollen and his back was in excruciating discomfort. He requested the court to give him permission to consult his own doctor for medical care. In addition, Amjad Parvez, the defendant's attorney, asked for two meetings with Chaudhry Parvez Elahi's family, which were duly allowed. The court asked for a medical report at the subsequent session and extended Chaudhry Parvez Elahi's physical remand until 29 August after hearing the arguments of the attorneys. (ANI)
Tel Aviv [Israel], August 29 (ANI/TPS): In the wake of the Libya fiasco, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Tuesday instructed government ministers to get his personal approval in advance of and for the release for publication of any secret diplomatic meetings. The clarification from Netanyahus office comes after the revelation of a meeting last week between Israels Foreign Minister Eli Cohen and his Libyan counterpart ignited a diplomatic firestorm. Cohen reiterated late Monday that his office did not leak to the press the encounter in Rome with Najla Mangoush. It is a shame that political opponents who did not promote any significant achievement rush to react without knowing the details and blame a leak that did not exist, Cohen wrote on X, formerly Twitter. The attacks will not deter the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and its excellent employees from continuing to work tirelessly for the State of Israel and for creating and strengthening ties with our many friends in the world, and in the Arab world in particular, he continued. Cohens X post followed a statement earlier in the day from the Foreign Ministry denying that it was the source of the leak. The Foreign Ministry on Sunday revealed the meeting between Cohen and Mangoush. The publicizing of the diplomatic encounter caused outrage in the North African country, which does not recognize the Jewish state. Mangoush was suspended and then fired, reportedlyfleeing to Turkeyover safety concerns as people protested on the streets of the capital Tripoli and several other cities. The political opposition in Israel criticized Cohen and the Netanyahu-led government for making the meeting public. Opposition leader Yair Lapid, Israels previous prime minister and foreign minister, had harsh words on Monday for Cohens handling of the diplomatic exchange. The global community is looking this morning at Israels irresponsible leak of the Libya foreign ministers meeting, and asking themselves: Is this a country with which we can conduct foreign relations? Is this a country one can trust? Lapid wrote on X. The incident with the Libyan foreign minister is amateurish, irresponsible and a serious failure of judgment. This is a morning of national disgrace and risking human life for a headline, he continued. In his X post, Cohen defended the work of the Foreign Ministry since he took over from Lapid at the end of last year. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs works regularly through overt and covert channels, and in a variety of covert ways to strengthen Israels connections in the world. The ministrys many achievements in the past year, including the opening of Omans skies to flights, a trade agreement with the United Arab Emirates, 2 new embassies of Muslim countries, 3 embassies that will move to Jerusalem, and more, would not have matured without discreet preparatory actions and leading secret moves through many channels, Cohen wrote. (ANI/TPS)
A small dog wanders around the house, occasionally barking for attention. Someone picks it up and pets it in their lap. The scene is relatable to us and  as archaeologists recently found  to the ancient Romans.

Archaeologists excavating a site in Oxfordshire, United Kingdom, uncovered the ruins of an ancient Roman villa, the Earth Trust said in a news release. The villa had a variety of two- and four-legged occupants between the third and fourth centuries A.D.

The smallest canine occupant? A little lap dog about 7.8 inches tall, archaeologists said. Excavations uncovered the dogs 1,800-year-old bones in a burial near the villa.

The little dog, which is thought to have been female with bowed legs, would probably have had a similar stature to a dachshund, but been closer in size to a chihuahua, the release said. Its unusually small size means it is likely to have been a much-loved pet.

The 1,800-year-old lap dog remains below greyhound remains for size comparison.

A photo shows the tiny dogs remains next to the remains of a greyhound. A sketch and photo show what the pet might have looked like.

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The ancient Roman Empires love for small dogs isnt new. Other archaeological excavations found evidence that the early Romans were the first to breed flat-faced dogs, including French bulldogs and pugs. A Roman grave in Turkey included a carefully placed small dog skull, an arrangement that suggested the canine might have had a high social position.

When the Romans arrived in the U.K., they brought their love of small dogs with them, the release said.

A size comparison of the lap dog next to a person.

The fact that this dog was so small and had bowed legs suggests that she probably wasnt bred for hunting, Hannah Russ and Sarah Everett, the zooarchaeologists who analyzed the bones, said in the release. This, along with the fact that she might have even been buried with her owner, makes it far more likely that she was kept as a house dog, lap dog, or pet.

A sketch of what the 1,800-year-old lap dog might have looked like.

The lap dog was one of at least 15 small-medium sized dogs found buried at the villa. The other larger dogs were likely for hunting or herding, Russ and Everett said.

Archaeologists also found evidence of a variety of other animals with functional purposes. The ancient Roman occupants kept chickens, geese, pigs, cattle, sheep or goats, and horses, donkeys or mules as well as ravens or crows, the release said.

Only part of the large Roman house has been excavated, the release said. Archaeologists unearthed cooking utensils, pottery, jewelry, tools and other artifacts.

This site provides a snapshot of domestic life in Roman Britain; its like peering into someones home, DigVentures archaeologist Maiya Pina-Dacier said in the news release.

The site in Oxfordshire is about 50 miles northwest of London.

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Ten people have been arrested in connection to the alleged kidnapping and murder of Thomas P. Rath, New York State Police and the Ithaca Police Department said Monday in a statement.

Police said Rath was forcibly kidnapped from the "Jungle," a natural area behind Lowes in the city of Ithaca, then murdered.

According to state police, Rath was forcibly abducted May 20, 2023 from his encampment in the natural area behind Lowes in the city of Ithaca, known as "the Jungle." On that day the Ithaca City Police Department received a call to "check the welfare," and at that point, an investigation was initiated with very limited information.

Thomas Rath of Ithaca.

The arrests started Aug. 16 and continued through Aug. 24, police said.

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Those charged include:

Angelo Baez , 48, of Ithaca, charged with second-degree murder and first-degree kidnapping

Jonathan Glennon , 31, (currently at Androscoggin Jail, Maine), charged with second-degree murder

Colleen E. Dillon , 31, of Newfield, charged with first-degree kidnapping

Zayne G. Burlingame , 30, of Ithaca, charged with first-degree kidnapping

Mark F. Beatty , 35, of Ithaca, charged with first-degree kidnapping

Robert W. Hines , 52 of Candor charged with first-degree kidnapping

Neraida A. Sobrado-Torres , 43, of Ithaca, charged with first-degree kidnapping

Jack J. Benjamin Jr. , 39, of Ithaca, charged with first-degree kidnapping

Brelynn B. Vorrasi , 27 of Lodi, charged with first-degree kidnapping

Justin M. Knapp , 36, of Ithaca, charged with first-degree kidnapping

State police say more arrests related to the incident are pending and will occur in the following weeks.

Police timeline

On May 26, Investigators received information that determined Raths disappearance was a result of suspicious circumstances, and Ithaca City Police requested and received assistance from the New York State Police.

Five days later, police said they were told Rath had been at a residence located at 70 Benjamin Hill Road in the town of Newfield on May 20, and a search warrant was authored and executed on the residence.

On June 2, police staged a large-scale search of the residence and surrounding area, with over 80 law enforcement members and volunteers from Tompkins and Tioga Rescue Teams assisting.

On Aug. 3, Raths remains were located buried in a shallow grave on state lands off Ekroos Road in the town of Candor, Tioga County after over 40 search warrants were authored and executed at various locations in the weeks prior.

The investigation is still ongoing, and anyone with any information is asked to call New York State Police Major Crimes at (607)561-7400.

This article originally appeared on Ithaca Journal: 10 people arrested in connection with Ithaca kidnapping, murder
Jaiden is a 12-year-old boy who attends the Vanguard School in Colorado Springs, Colorado. He is the subject of a video that went viral on social media; it shows the boy and his mother confronting a school administrator who asserts that the Gadsden flag patch on his backpack violates district policy.

"The reason that we do not want the flag displayed is due to its origins with slavery and the slave trade," says the administrator.

Meet 12yo Jaiden who was kicked out of class yesterday in Colorado Springs for having a Gadsden flag patch, which the school claims has "origins with slavery." The school's director said via email that the patch was "disruptive to the classroom environment." Receipts in the ???? pic.twitter.com/qQ8jK1zSpR  Connor Boyack ???? (@cboyack) August 29, 2023

On Monday, school officials removed Jaiden from class due to his Gadsden flag patch. His mother has fought back against this disciplinary action, explaining that the flaga coiled snake above the phrase "Don't tread on me"is not a pro-slavery image; it has its origins in the Revolutionary War and was intended as a symbol of resistance to British tyranny.

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District officials did not respond to a request for comment, but Libertas Institute President Connor Boyackwho first publicized Jaiden's situationshared an email that they sent to Jaiden's mother, in which the district reiterated its position that the Gadsden flag is an "unacceptable symbol" tied to "white-supremacy" and "patriot" groups.

It's true that some white supremacists have appropriated the flag. But so have classical liberals and libertariansincluding Reason (check out our 404 Error page). Some lefty groups have cited Gadsden too. There's even a pro-LGBT version.

In any case, Jaiden's mother is absolutely correct that the flag's origins have nothing to do with racism or slavery. In their email, district officials approvingly cited a 2016 Washington Post article by Reason's Eugene Volokh evaluating an Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) case. The case in question involved a post office employee whose Gadsden flag hat had generated racial harassment claims. But ultimately, the EEOC declined to rule that the Gadsden flag was a racist symbol.

The Supreme Court has ruled that K-12 officials have significant authority to limit students' free expression rights in order to promote classroom cohesion. But the school cannot discriminate against Jaiden's viewpoint by wrongly and arbitrarily declaring the Gadsden flag to be a hate symbol.

"There is nothing inherently disruptive about a student displaying a Gadsden flag patch on his backpack," writes Aaron Terr, director of public advocacy at the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression. "Public school administrators can't ban the expression of an idea, symbol, or viewpoint just because they personally dislike it."

Democratic Colorado Gov. Jared Polis also came to Jaiden's defense, describing the flag's message as "iconic" in a post on X.

"The Gadsden flag is a proud symbol of the American revolution and [an] iconic warning to Britain or any government not to violate the liberties of Americans," wrote Polis. "It appears on popular American medallions and challenge coins through today and Ben Franklin also adopted it to symbolize the union of the 13 colonies. It's a great teaching moment for a history lesson!"

When reached for comment by Reason, Polis reaffirmed his comment and noted that he also agreed with sentiments expressed by Rep. Ted Lieu (DCalif.).

"I oppose banning the Gadsden flag in schools for the same reason I oppose conservative schools districts that ban LGBTQ flags in schools," wrote Lieu. "Let kids be their authentic selves and give them a world of informationstudents can figure out what's important to them."

The post 12-Year-Old Boy Removed From School Over 'Don't Tread on Me' Patch appeared first on Reason.com.
A 12-year-old girl woke after falling asleep on her couch at night to find a stranger touching her face, California police say.

The startled girl dashed off to alert her family while the accused intruder bolted from the home, stealing a set of car keys at 12:30 a.m. Monday, Aug. 28, Riverside police said in a news release.

Officers responding to the incident arrested Daveon Alvarez, 28, whom they describe as being homeless, down the street from the home, police said.

Alvarez faces charges including annoying or molesting a child, burglary, attempted auto theft and violation of parole, police said.

Neighbors reported seeing Alvarez inside vehicles outside the house before he entered the home through an unlocked door, police said.

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Officers thanked the young girl for being brave and providing enough information to put this criminal in jail.

Alvarez is being held without bail, police said.

Riverside is about 55 miles east of Los Angeles.

After-game brawl between 49ers, Raiders fans erupts at California In-N-Out, reports say

Man being robbed of backpack pulls a gun and is killed by police, Colorado cops say

Deputy accused of trying to cover up colleagues DUI crash, California officials say
A 14-year-old girl died Sunday night after she was shot in a bedroom of a south Georgia home.

Valdosta police responded around 6:44 p.m. to the home off North Lee Street where they say a group of teens was hanging out and had at least two guns with them.

[DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]

One of the guns was fired and hit the 14-year-old girl, killing her. Police said the other teens left the home and jumped out the window after she was shot. The victims name has not been released.

This is a tragic incident that should not have happened. These juveniles had firearms without knowing how to handle them, and it resulted in a young lady losing her life. Our condolences go out to the family as they try to heal during this process, Valdosta Police Chief Leslie Manahan said.

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Officers later found three of the suspects not far from the home and tracked the fourth down to a home off East Park Avenue.

Police identified one of the suspects as 18-year-old Jayden McCutchin, who has been charged with murder in the second degree and cruelty to children in the second degree. The other suspects names have not been released because they are minors, but were charged.

14-year-old boy: murder in the 2nd degree, cruelty to children 2nd degree, possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony, possession of a firearm by a minor (misdemeanor) and tampering with evidence.

16-year-old boy charged with murder in the 2nd degree (party to the crime), cruelty to children 2nd degree (party to the crime), and possession of a firearm by a minor.

15-year-old girl charged with murder in the 2nd degree (party to the crime), cruelty to children 2nd degree (party to the crime), and possession of a firearm by a minor.

Valdosta police did not say which suspect fired the gun that killed the 14-year-old. Investigators said they are looking at more charges in the case.

Police asks anyone who has information about the shooting to reach out to their investigators online or calling 229-293-3145.

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IN OTHER NEWS
This salt flat in Bolivia is perfect for creating optical illusions. iFerol/Shutterstock

All over the world, there are naturally occurring optical illusions that captivate spectators.

Cloud formations can sometimes make it seem like there's an ocean or a UFO in the sky.

Whether it is salt flats in Bolivia or rock formations in Arizona, nature never ceases to amaze.

Everyone loves an optical illusion (even if they leave us completely stumped), and they're all around us in the natural world.

From an underwater waterfall in the Indian Ocean to a surrealist scene in Namibia, Insider rounded up 18 naturally occurring illusions and optical phenomena that will make you double-take.

Take a closer look below and find out how these illusions are created.

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Lucy Yang contributed to an earlier version of this report.

This "underwater waterfall" is not what it seems.

There's a simple geographical explanation for this phenomenon. Myroslava Bozhko/Shutterstock

Along the shoreline of Mauritius, there appears to be a flowing river underneath the turquoise water of the Indian Ocean. While underwater waterfalls do exist, according to the National Ocean Service, this isn't one of them. In this case, what looks like water is actually sand getting pushed off an underwater shelf called the Mascarene Plateau, according to Britannica.

Similarly, Texas' famous Jacob's Well looks like it's thousands of feet deep, but it's just an illusion.

Jacob's Well is a karstic spring and waterhole in the Texas Hill Country that appears deeper than it is. benedek/Getty Images

Jacob's Well in Austin, Texas, is known for terrifying people who jump into this giant watering hole. While it's 140 feet deep, according to Hays County's official website, an illusion makes it look like the well is much deeper. With a trick of light and crystal-clear water, it seems like you're jumping thousands of feet into the Earth.

Yosemite's Horsetail Fall looks like it's on fire at a certain time of the year.

Yosemite's Horsetail Fall. Dan Dunn/Shutterstock

Every year, around the second week of February, the setting sun hits Horsetail Fall in Yosemite National Park at a particular angle, illuminating the top of the waterfall, according to its official website. If the fall is flowing and the weather conditions are just right, the illuminated water glows bright orange and red, as if it's on fire.

This giant shadowy figure is a naturally occurring optical phenomenon.

This photo was taken in the High Tatra Mountains in Slovakia. MagMac83/Shutterstock

A giant figure appears to loom in the middle of this image taken in the High Tatra Mountains in Slovakia.

Known as a Brocken Spectre, this phenomenon occurs when an observer's shadow is cast onto the surface of clouds or thick mist, according to Britannica. The head of the magnified figure is often surrounded by rainbow-colored rings  another optical phenomenon known as a glory, which is created when sunlight hits tiny water droplets suspended in the atmosphere and is scattered back toward the viewer, according to EarthSky.

This salt flat in Bolivia is perfect for creating optical illusions.

No, this isn't photoshopped. Kath Watson/Shutterstock

Bolivia's Salar de Uyuni, the world's largest salt flat, transforms into a giant reflective surface when it's covered in a thin layer of water, either from rain or nearby overflowing lakes, National Geographic reported.

Stretching on for miles, completely level, the salt flat also appears to have an endless horizon, allowing photographers to create illusions by playing around with depth and perspective.

While this sky may look like ocean waves, it's actually a special kind of cloud.

Undulatus asperatus clouds. Andrea J. Smith/Shutterstock

Commonly referred to as agitated or turbulent clouds, undulatus asperatus clouds are fairly new to meteorology, Slate reported. They are typically formed when rising air forms to create a widespread cloud cover. This paired with wind and turbulence makes the cloud look like it's undulating, mimicking ocean waves.

Meanwhile, these are clouds, not UFOs.

A photo of the Plosky and Tolbachik volcanoes on the Kamchatka Peninsula in Russia. Michael Dorogovich/Shutterstock

Known for their saucer-like appearance, lenticular clouds are stationary clouds that usually form on the downwind side of a mountain range, given that the temperature is low enough, according to the National Weather Service. Under the right conditions, moisture in the air condenses to form these massive, striking shapes in the sky.

Dracula orchids, also called monkey orchids, look like a face hidden in nature.

A Dracula orchid looks like a face. cotosa/Shutterstock

At first glance, this flower appears to be a face, with eyes, a nose, a mouth, and even hair. To some, the flower looks like a monkey face. The bizarre-looking flower is actually called a Dracula orchid, and the "eyes" are just short petals, according to the American Orchid Society.

The tips of this moth's wings look exactly like the heads of snakes.

Two atlas moths breeding. lapon pinta/Shutterstock

When threatened, the atlas moth drops to the ground and flaps its wings, according to The Natural History Museum. The tips of the insect's wings look incredibly similar to a snake's head, which allows the moth to scare off predators.

This isn't a lens flare from a camera.

You can see this optical phenomenon in real life. Gen_Shtab/Shutterstock

Sundogs, or parhelia, are created when sunlight is refracted by ice crystals drifting in the air, according to Live Science. The result is one or more patches of bright light located around the sun.

At sea, objects in the distance may appear to be floating above the horizon.

Fata Morgana (mirage) of coastline with wind turbines on it Asmus Koefoed/Shutterstock

A Fata Morgana is a complex, rapidly changing form of a superior mirage, an optical phenomenon that is created when light bends as it passes through a layer of air that is warmer than the layer below it, according to SKYbrary.

Made up of several inverted and upright images stacked on top of each other, Fata Morganas appear as warped, often unrecognizable, objects or shapes that seem to float above the horizon.

Similarly, it's easy to mistake simple mirages for bodies of water in the desert.

That's not a lake in the distance. loskutnikov/Shutterstock

Compared to Fata Morganas, inferior mirages are created when air near the ocean or Earth's surface is much warmer than the air above it, according to the American Meteorological Society. Light passing through these layers of air bends, producing an inverted, displaced mirage of an object (for example, a distant mountain range or the blue sky) that appears below the object itself.

On hot days, roads sometimes appear like they're wet.

It's all an illusion. Artesia Wells/Shutterstock

This phenomenon is another example of an inferior mirage. Like sand in the desert, roads hold onto heat and warm up the air directly above it. Your brain then mistakenly perceives an inferior mirage of the sky as water on the ground reflecting light.

Although half man-made, this illusion is completed by nature  a German bridge creates a perfect circle when reflected in the river below.

Rakotzbrucke, or Devil's Bridge, in Germany. Petr Svarc/UCG/Universal Images Group via Getty Images

Rakotzbrucke in Kromlau, Germany, was built in 1860 and has earned the name "devil's bridge" among locals, as such bridges were so dangerous or miraculous they were said to be built by Satan, according to Atlas Obscura. It was built purposefully as half a circle so that when the waters are still and the light is just right, it will form a perfect circle with its reflection.

This may look like a surrealist painting, but it's actually a photo of Deadvlei in Namibia.

These are real trees. Anna Morgan/Shutterstock

Located inside Namib-Naukluft National Park, Deadvlei is a claypan dotted with many long-dead camel thorn trees, which have not yet decayed due to the area's dry climate, according to the Sossusvlei official website.

The barren landscape, once flooded with water from the nearby Tsauchab River, is now a hot spot for photographers  many of whom have captured the contrast between the claypan's bleached white floor and sun-scorched trees, as reported by National Geographic.

Pictures like the one above are typically taken from a very low angle, so that the sand dunes in the distance, tinted orange by the sun, look like a painted backdrop.

The undulating patterns in this rock formation throw off your depth perception.

It's a popular spot for hikers and photographers. Vyshnivskyy/Shutterstock

This unique rock formation is known as The Wave. It's located in Arizona, in the Coyote Buttes North area in the Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness. To see this stunning sight in person, however, you'll need to enter a lottery system to get a permit four months in advance, according to the US Department of the Interior Bureau of Land Management website.

These colorful columns aren't actually vertical beams of light.

The pillars do not physically exist, but you might think so by looking at them. T Oli_B/Shutterstock

A light pillar is a phenomenon where columns of light appear as if they are beaming directly upwards, sometimes visible during very cold weather. What you're actually seeing is artificial light from a source on the ground reflecting off millions of tiny ice crystals at different heights in the atmosphere, creating an elongated, columned light source, The New York Times reported.

The green flash occurs when two phenomena merge: a mirage and the dispersion of sunlight.

A green flash appears behind the sun. Yrii Kurygin/Shutterstock

The green flash is a phenomenon that can only be seen either right before sunrise or after sunset when the sun is almost entirely below the horizon. The optical illusion occurs when the upper edge of the sun is still visible, and the upper rim will appear green or even blue in color, according to the American Association For The Advancement Of Science, for just a few short seconds.

Read the original article on Insider
Police tape hangs at a scene in Salt Lake City on Monday, March 15, 2021. Two 19-year-old men have been arrested in connection with a DUI crash in downtown Salt Lake City that left one person critically injured. | Kristin Murphy, Deseret News

Police have arrested two men who they say were involved in a high-speed crash involving alcohol in downtown Salt Lake City that left one victim critically injured.

Liam Kavanagh, 19, was booked into the Salt Lake County Jail for investigation of DUI, being a minor with alcohol and a traffic signal violation. Nicholas Kalberer, 19, was arrested for investigation of obstructing justice, failing to disclose his identity and possession of an alcohol by a minor.

Just after 1 a.m. Friday, a Mini Cooper driven by Kavanagh was speeding on 600 South when it hit a KIA at the intersection of 700 East, according to police.

The KIA, whose driver was working as a ride-share operator at the time, had three occupants. A man who was a back seat passenger was taken to a local hospital in critical condition. Another man, also a passenger, was treated at a local hospital and released.

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Kavanagh, who had a California driver's license, told police "he had several shots earlier and possibly caused another traffic accident prior to this incident," according to a police booking affidavit.

His passenger, Kalberer, initially claimed to police that he was a witness to the crash.

"(He) attempted to provide false information to police while being questioned about how the accident occurred by presenting himself as a witness to the accident as opposed to being the passenger in the vehicle attempting to interfere with a police investigation," his arrest report states.
This years summer heat wave in Arizona has already killed 59 people, with 345 deaths now under investigation.

Our July set a new record for the most consecutive days (31) with high temperatures at or above 110 degrees, reports The Arizona Republics Fernando Cervantes Jr.

That we know.

What we dont know is why.

Why are we seeing these record-smashing temperatures this year in metro Phoenix and across the globe?

Is climate change the only cause of extreme heat?

Some will scoff at the question. But its actually a mystery that will take time to study and understand.

Yes, climate change undoubtedly played a role.

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Prior to this summer, the warmest eight years on the planet had all been recorded since 2015, reports the World Meteorological Organization.

Heat deaths are spiking: Extreme heat is killing more people  and the worst is yet to come

But well before this summer, scientists were predicting that other factors could significantly raise this years temperatures to extreme levels across the globe.

One of those factors was a massive underwater earthquake near the island nation of Tonga more than a year and a half ago.

On Jan. 15, 2022, the Hunga Tonga-Hunga Haapai underwater volcano erupted. The energy released was enormous  so powerful it was the most violent eruption anywhere in the world since Mount Pinatubo blew its stack in the Philippines in 1991.

Did the Tonga volcano eruption cause this year's heat wave?

A year later, scientists mostly from Oxford University published a study in the peer-reviewed Nature Climate Change that noted the Tonga-Hunga volcanic eruption was extraordinary in that it pushed an enormous amount of water into the atmosphere.

This combination of satellite images taken by Himawari-8, a Japanese weather satellite operated by Japan Meteorological Agency and released by National Institute of Information and Communications Technology (NICT), shows an undersea volcano eruption of the Pacific nation of Tonga Saturday, Jan. 15, 2022.

Most volcanic eruptions spew large amounts of sulfur dioxide into the atmosphere that form particles that can actually reflect the sun and cool the planet.

This one did that as well, but was offset and exceeded by the amount of moisture it sent skyward  roughly the equivalent of 58,000 Olympic-size swimming pools, according to separate research done by NASAs Jet Propulsion Laboratory.

Because water vapor is a greenhouse gas, it is possible that over a multiyear period Hunga TongaHunga Haapai will cause a temporary increase in global surface temperatures, the Oxford group noted.

As reported in the U.K. climate-science website CarbonBrief, the Oxford group reported that the eruption had increased the likelihood that global temperatures would exceed 1.5 degrees Celsius (nearly 35 degrees Fahrenheit) above pre-industrial levels at least once by 2026.

Two caveats to the undersea volcano research

The number 1.5 C is an important threshold that nations agreed to try to stay under, based on the 2015 Paris climate accords.

The study authors said the volcano had raised the chances by 7 percentage points of exceeding 1.5 C at least once by 2026, making imminent 1.5 C exceedance a greater possibility.

In separate research, professor Pasquale Sellitto of the Interuniversity Laboratory of Atmospheric Systems says the Tonga research is very reasonable but raised two caveats:

The paper assumes the water pushed upwards is globally well mixed, when, in fact, its plume was confined in the southern atmosphere, reports CarbonBrief.

The other is that the paper does not include the cooling influence of the sulfur dioxide.

Dr. Luis Millan from NASAs Jet Propulsion Laboratory says more models will need to be run and studied to discern the small Hungas contribution from the anthropogenic (caused by human activity) one.

El Nino could increase temperatures

Another factor in the Pacific Ocean that was expected to raise world temperatures this year has been the cyclical climate pattern known as El Nino, which returned at the beginning of this summer.

The forecast high for Phoenix for Aug. 28, 2023, is 113 degrees and the following day is forecast to hit 114 degrees, according to the National Weather Service.

El Nino is the warming phase of an irregular but periodic variation in wind patterns and sea surface temperatures over the tropical eastern Pacific Ocean, as explained by the German international broadcast news network Deutsche Welle.

Its cooling phase is known as La Nina, which we had experienced the prior three years.

The record high heat we are seeing this year is more likely to occur during the El Nino cycle, Chris Hewitt, head of climate services at the World Meteorological Organization, told Deutsche Welle.

And hold on to your seat. We are not likely to feel the full effect of this El Nino until 2024.

Do candidates care about climate change? Climate change isn't a top issue for Democrats or Republicans. Record heat should change that.

Does pollution make it hotter?

Another significant factor that could be turning up the heat are the pollution controls placed on global shipping.

The International Maritime Organization has placed new limits on ocean ships to reduce their sulfur emissions. Those new regulations came into full force in 2020 and have cut sulfur emissions by more than 75%.

Opinion alerts: Get columns from your favorite columnists + expert analysis on top issues, delivered straight to your device through the USA TODAY app. Don't have the app? Download it for free from your app store.

As explained above, sulfur particles in the lower atmosphere act as a reflector of sunlight and thus a cooling agent on the planet. Fewer sulfur emissions from ocean ships means less sunlight is bouncing back out to space, and is instead being absorbed by the oceans below, The Economist reports.

Another factor is what happens when earth undergoes an interglacial period as were in now  the end of an ice age. The earth develops more tropical wetlands that, as they die, produce methane gas, whose atmospheric changes can heat the planet.

None of this is to dismiss climate change and the real impact it has on the world. But what we perceive as an acceleration of conventional climate change might have been stoked by other factors as well. Something we need to consider as we try to understand our changing planet.

Phil Boas

Phil Boas is an editorial columnist with The Arizona Republic, where this column first published. Email him at phil.boas@arizonarepublic.com

You can read diverse opinions from our Board of Contributors and other writers on the Opinion front page, on Twitter @usatodayopinion and in our daily Opinion newsletter. To respond to a column, submit a comment to letters@usatoday.com.

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Why is it so hot? Climate change may not be the only explanation
From left to right: Capt. Eleanor V. LeBeau, 29; Maj. Tobin J. Lewis, 37; and Cpl. Spencer R. Collart, 21, died in an MV-22 Osprey crash in Australia on Aug. 27, 2023. (Marine Corps)

The Marine Corps has named the three Marines who were killed in an MV-22 Osprey crash Sunday morning in Australia during a multinational training exercise.

The Marines who died are Cpl. Spencer R. Collart, 21, an Osprey crew chief from Arlington, Virginia; Capt. Eleanor V. LeBeau, 29, an Osprey pilot from Belleville, Illinois; and Maj. Tobin J. Lewis, 37, from Jefferson, Colorado, according to a news release from Marine Rotational Force-Darwin, Australia.

Lewis was the executive officer of Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 363, the Marines unit based at Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii.

Of the remaining 20 Marines who were on the Osprey when it crashed on Melville Island, north of Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia, three remain in Royal Darwin Hospital. One is in critical condition, and two are in stable condition, according to the release Tuesday morning local time.

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8 Marines remain hospitalized after fiery Osprey crash that killed 3

The remaining 17 Marines were taken to Royal Darwin Hospital, treated for minor injuries and released, according to the release.

The cause of the crash is under investigation.

We are deeply saddened by the loss of three respected and beloved members of the MRF-D family, Col. Brendan Sullivan, commanding officer of the rotational force, said in the release. Our thoughts and prayers remain with the families and with all involved.

Collart enlisted in the Marine Corps in October 2020 and was promoted to corporal in February, according to the release. He previously served in Pensacola, Florida, and Jacksonville, North Carolina.

His awards included the National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal and Sea Service Deployment Ribbon.

LeBeau was commissioned in the Marine Corps in August 2018 and was promoted to the captain in March, according to the release. She previously served in Pensacola, Florida; Corpus Christi, Texas; and Jacksonville, North Carolina.

Her awards included the National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal and Sea Service Deployment Ribbon.

Lewis commissioned in August 2008 and was promoted to major in October 2018. He previously served in Pensacola, Florida; Corpus Christi, Texas; Jacksonville, North Carolina; and Okinawa, Japan.

He received two Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medals, the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal, Navy Unit Commendation, National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal and four Sea Service Deployment Ribbons, according to the release.

Lewis had logged more than 1,800 military flight hours, including more than 1,500 in the Osprey, according to his official bio.

At present, we remain focused on required support to the ongoing recovery and investigative efforts, Sullivan said in the release.

The commander expressed his thanks to the Australian Defence Force, Northern Territory Police, Northern Territory Government, CareFlight Air and Mobile Services, NT Health, National Critical Care and Trauma Response Center and Tiwi Island Government for their help.

Approximately 2,000 Marines and sailors deploy to Darwin, Australia, from April to October as part of Marine Rotational Force-Darwin, according to the release. The U.S. service members there train with the Australian military and other regional allies and partners in the Indo-Pacific  a region that the Marine Corps has made its focus as it keeps its eye on the Chinese military.

The other Marines who were aboard the Osprey crash came from Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 363 and 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, an infantry unit based at Camp Pendleton, California, according to the release.

The deaths of the three Marines in Australia came just days after Marine Maj. Andrew Mettler died in an F/A-18D Hornet crash near Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, California.

Before Sunday, there had been five fatal crashes of Marine Ospreys since 2012, causing a total of 16 deaths.

The latest was in June 2022, when five Marines died in a fiery crash in a remote part of California east of San Diego. A crash investigation report in July found that the tragedy was caused by a mechanical failure related to a clutch.

There had been 16 similar clutch problems with the Marine Ospreys in flight since 2012, the report found. But no problems have arisen since February when the Marine Corps began replacing a piece of equipment on the aircraft, the report said.

The Associated Press contributed to reporting.
Adults and children walk toward the McDonald's corporate office in the West Loop on Nov. 3, 2021, in Chicago. The group marched to the office to criticize McDonald's CEO Chris Kempczinski's text message to Mayor Lori Lightfoot, which referenced the fatal shootings of 7-year-old Jaslyn Adams and 13-year-old Adam Toledo earlier in 2021. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)

A federal judge has refused to dismiss a racial discrimination lawsuit against McDonalds tied to widely-criticized text messages CEO Chris Kempczinski sent former Mayor Lori Lightfoot in 2021 about the shooting deaths of two Chicago children.

McDonalds had asked U.S. District Judge Lindsay Jenkins to dismiss claims brought by former executive Michael Peaster, who had worked at McDonalds for 35 years including a decade spent as its head of corporate safety, security and intelligence, according to court documents.

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In a complaint filed in federal court in Chicago in December, Peaster said he had spoken up in a meeting held by Kempczinksi during fallout from the CEOs text message comments on the shooting deaths of 7-year-old Jaslyn Adams and 13-year-old Adam Toledo. Adams was shot and killed in a McDonalds drive-thru on the West Side; Toledo was shot and killed by Chicago police officer in Little Village.

Kempczinski had appeared to blame the childrens parents for their deaths in text messages sent to Lightfoot, which led to calls for the CEOs resignation when the texts were made public.

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Kempczinski apologized, including by sending an apology video to employees, suppliers and franchisees. He also hosted a town hall meeting at McDonalds headquarters.

Peaster alleges that during the town hall, he pushed back against an answer Kempczinski gave to another employee that Peaster viewed as evasive, or worse, according to his complaint. Peaster alleges the CEO and McDonalds began discriminating against him after the town hall because of his race and retaliating against him because he had spoken up.

Kempczinski ignored and refused to meet with Peaster to discuss job-related topics, even though normal company practice was for the CEO to accept Officers meeting requests routinely, Jenkins wrote in summarizing Peasters allegations. Peaster alleges he had been set up to fail by McDonalds and Kempczinski as a pretext for his termination; he was terminated in November 2022 in what he alleges was a racially discriminatory and retaliatory firing.

Peaster alleges McDonalds set him up for failure by asking him to enhance security without meaningfully increasing his budget and by not allowing him to fill vacancies in his department, according to the judges order.

Peasters lawsuit made claims of disparate treatment, hostile work environment and retaliation. Jenkins dismissed his claims of a hostile work environment and of intentional infliction of emotional distress. She allowed the lawsuit to continue on the basis of racial discrimination and retaliation.

In allowing those claims to move forward, Jenkins wrote it was reasonable to infer from Peasters town hall comments that he was attempting to speak up for African American employees who believed the text messages wrongly blamed parents.

Jenkins also declined to dismiss Kempczinski as a defendant.

A spokesperson for McDonalds declined to comment on the case Tuesday. Carmen Caruso, an attorney for Peaster, said he looked forward to trying the case.
30 combat clashes have taken place between the Armed Forces of Ukraine and the Russians over the past 24 hours. The Russian forces launched airstrikes and artillery attacks.

Source: General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, information as of 18:00 on 29 August

Quote: "Russian forces launched five missile strikes and 47 air strikes over the past day and carried out 48 attacks from multiple-launch rocket systems on positions of Ukrainian troops and settlements. Over thirty combat clashes have occurred over the past day."

Details: The Russians carried out airstrikes and deployed artillery and mortars to launch attacks on most of the fronts.

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Meanwhile, the Ukrainian Defence Forces continue to press on with their offensive operation on the Melitopol front, consolidating their positions and conducting counter-battery operations.

Background:

The Ukrainian flag has been raised by soldiers of the Armed Forces of Ukraine on the left bank of the Dnipro River in Kherson Oblast, over the district of Dachi, which is now a "grey zone".

Ukrainska Pravda is the place where you will find the most up-to-date information about everything related to the war in Ukraine. Follow us on Twitter, support us, or become our patron!
Police say a 35-year-old Wisconsin high school employee was arrested after he was accused of doing drugs with a teen student before sexually assaulting her at his home, news outlets reported.

Justin Jolen Lizama, the suspect in the case, was an event staff employee at Case High School in Mount Pleasant, police say, according to WTMJ.

The news outlet reported that the Mount Pleasant Police Department began an investigation in June after it reported receiving allegations of a relationship between Lizama and a 16-year-old student.

The victim reportedly told police she met Lizama when she was sitting under a tree near a hotel, recalling how Lizama pulled up and asked if she was okay before asking her to get in the car. Even though the teen said she was scared, police said, she decided to go with him because she had nowhere else to go, Fox6 reported.

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The criminal complaint stated the two went to his home where they smoked marijuana and engaged in sexual activity, according to Fox6. The victim told police the next morning she still felt high and Lizama dropped her back off at the hotel, which she believed was to prevent anyone from seeing them together.

The complaint states the victim said there were additional incidents where sexual activity took place, and investigators found text conversations referencing those claims on the teens cell phone, WTMJ reported.

Court records show charges were filed against Lizama on Aug. 28. He faces one count of sexual assault of student by school staff and one count of child enticement, both felonies.

Lizama was given a $50,000 bond and is set to be back in court on Sept. 6, court records show. The Mount Pleasant Police Department could not immediately share information on the case with McClatchy News.

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Pueblo law enforcement now has another tool to improve the accuracy and speed of crime scene documentation through a new FARO Focus Laser Scanner.

The purchase of the scanner was made possible through congressionally directed spending requests sponsored by Colorados U.S. senators. The scanner is the first project for which the city of Pueblo has received congressionally directed spending dollars, according to a city press release.

Heres how the scanner works and how the grant can help local law enforcement.

This new FARO scanner for the Pueblo Police Department was funded by a federal grant, partially sponsored by U.S. Senator Michael Bennet (right). Bennet spoke with police department leaders and saw the new equipment on August 25, 2023, at an event that was closed to the media.

How the FARO scanner works

The scanner takes three-dimensional images of spaces that can then be reconstructed electronically.

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The scanners have a multitude of uses  including for construction  but local law enforcement will use the new technology to document crime scenes.

During a presentation about the scanner technology at a Pueblo City Council work session on Aug. 21, Sgt. Stephen Jesik of the Pueblo Police Department said other forms of evidence gathering for criminal investigations arent as high stakes as crime scene documentation: for example, witnesses can be called back for additional interviews but investigators usually only get one chance to capture crime scenes.

Typically, we get one shot at it processing that crime scene and doing that job correctly, Jesik said, adding that accurate documentation of crime scenes can help law enforcement prove cases in court.

How Pueblo PD will use the FARO system

Local law enforcement will use the scanner to document crime scenes and car crashes  Pueblo PD has already used it a few times, Jesik said.

Corporal Chris Alarid said at the work session that investigators in the traffic division can integrate FARO scans with black box data in vehicles to create animations reconstructing a collision.

The new technology can also be integrated with the departments drone unit to take detailed aerial photos.

Three-dimensional scans can also be taken to prepare for visits from high-profile dignitaries. Security staff for such dignitaries sometimes scope out locations in advance, but the scans could be used to familiarize staff with local surroundings, remotely.

Pueblo PD has already used the scanner on a few crime scenes and a few crashes, Alarid said.

The new technology is much faster and less labor intensive than the previous method of documenting indoor crime scenes, which involves at least two or three officers taking measurements, making sketches and taking photos and video of locations that are later inputted into a computer program, Jesik said.

It was cumbersome, it was labor intensive, it was manpower intensive and it was time intensive, Jesik said.

Crime scene photographs will still be useful to investigators, Jesik said, and can be integrated into the 3D scans.

The scanner is also much more efficient than other documentation technology for outdoor situations, Alarid said.

Why the federal grant is a big deal for Pueblo

The federal grant of $86,000 helped pay for the purchase of the equipment as well as training officers in how to use it, Jesik said. According to the citys release, five people at Pueblo PD are currently trained on how to use the equipment and five more officers  as well as some deputies from the Pueblo County Sheriffs Office  will be trained this fall.

In the citys press release, Pueblo Police Chief Chris Noeller thanked Colorados representatives in the U.S. Senate, Michael Bennet and John Hickenlooper, for supporting the grant.

This will help with our staffing concerns and allows for more accurate and cutting-edge technology to assist with our investigations which saves time and increases our attention to details, Noeller said.

Bennet saw a demonstration of the technology when he was visiting Pueblo Friday afternoon. That segment of his visit was not open to the media.

I am deeply grateful for law enforcement officers across Colorado who step up to protect our communities at great personal risk, Bennet said in the city's release.

To help them do their job and focus on violent crimes, we need to give law enforcement the tools they need to conduct their investigations efficiently.

Bennet said thats why he supported the funding and added that he will keep advocating for Colorado law enforcement at the nations capitol in every way I can.

Anna Lynn Winfrey covers politics for the Pueblo Chieftain. She can be reached at awinfrey@gannett.com or on Twitter, @annalynnfrey. Please support local news at subscribe.chieftain.com.

This article originally appeared on The Pueblo Chieftain: How a new 3D scanner could help Pueblo law enforcement solve cases
FILE - The logo for 3M appears on a screen above the trading floor of the New York Stock Exchange, Oct. 24, 2017. 3M, on Tuesday, Aug. 29, 2023, has agreed to pay $6 billion to settle numerous lawsuits from U.S. service members who say they experienced hearing loss or other serious injuries from using earplugs made by the company. (AP Photo/Richard Drew, File) (ASSOCIATED PRESS)

NEW YORK (AP)  Chemical and consumer product manufacturer 3M said Tuesday it has agreed to pay $6 billion to settle lawsuits from U.S. service members who say they experienced hearing loss or other serious injuries after using faulty earplugs made by the company.

The settlement, consisting of $5 billion in cash and $1 billion in 3M stock, will be made in payments that will run through 2029.

Hundreds of thousands of veterans and current service members have sued 3M and Aearo Technologies, a company that 3M acquired in 2008, over their Combat Arms Earplugs. The service members alleged that a defective design allowed the products  which were intended to protect ears from close-range firearms and other loud noises  to loosen slightly and allow hearing damage, according to Aylstock, Witkin, Kreis, & Overholtz PLLC, one of the law firms representing plaintiffs.

In an online summary about the litigation, the Florida-based law firm notes that 3M previously agreed to pay $9.1 million to settle a lawsuit on behalf of the government alleging the company knowingly supplied defective earplugs to the U.S. military. And since 2019, the firm added, 3M has lost 10 of 16 cases that have gone to trial  awarding millions of dollars to plaintiffs to date.

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Tuesday's agreement "represents a tremendous victory for the thousands of men and women who bravely served our country and returned home with life-altering hearing injuries, attorneys representing the plaintiffs said in a joint statement.

In Tuesday's announcement, 3M maintained that the agreement  which includes all claims in Florida's multidistrict litigation, coordinated state court action in Minnesota, and potential future claims  was not an admission of liability.

The products at issue in this litigation are safe and effective when used properly, the company wrote. 3M is prepared to continue to defend itself in the litigation if certain agreed terms of the settlement agreement are not fulfilled.

3M has previously tried to reduce exposure to the earplug litigation through bankruptcy court, the Wall Street Journal reported. In 2022, Aearo filed for bankruptcy as a separate company, accepting responsibility for claims, but the filing was later dismissed in U.S. bankruptcy court.

Beyond the earplug litigation, 3M in June agreed to pay at least $10.3 billion to settle lawsuits over contamination of many U.S. public drinking water systems with potentially harmful compounds. The deal would compensate water providers for pollution with per- and polyfluorinated substances, also known as forever chemicals."

The agreement hasn't been finalized yet, and the settlement payment could reach as high as $12.5 billion. Last month, 22 attorneys general urged a federal court to reject the proposed settlement, saying it let 3M off too easily  arguing that the deal doesnt give individual water suppliers enough time to determine how much money they would get and, in some cases, could shift liability from the company to providers.

On Tuesday, New York Attorney General Letitia James said that 3M agreed to make significant changes to the settlement terms  which, as reflected in a proposed court order, include extending the deadline for eligible water systems to review the settlement and removing uncapped indemnity in favor of 3M.

James, along with the other attorneys general, have now withdrawn their opposition, her office said. According to court records, the judge granted preliminary approval of the agreement Tuesday afternoon.

In a statement sent to The Associated Press Tuesday, a spokesperson for 3M said the company was pleased to have to clarified the agreement and see the attorneys' general objections withdrawn  adding that the deal will benefit U.S.-based public water systems nationwide that provide drinking water to a vast majority of Americans without the need for further litigation by or on behalf of public water systems.

While these objections were withdrawn, five attorneys general still filed an amicus letter expressing concerns of the amount and timeline of the settlement payment, California Attorney General Rob Bonta announced Tuesday.

3M has agreed to modify its original proposed settlement in critical ways that will benefit the American people, Bonta said in a statement. However, 3M declined to pay an amount that accurately reflects the extraordinary damage it has caused to public drinking water systems, and it declined to provide water suppliers the money to remediate that damage more quickly."
3M announced Tuesday that it agreed to pay $6 billion to settle hundreds of thousands of lawsuits alleging 3Ms military earplugs caused hearing loss for U.S. service members.

The company said it would pay out $5 billion in cash and $1 billion in 3M common stock between 2023 and 2029.

The news of the settlement resolves what attorneys for the plaintiffs have called the largest mass tort in U.S. history, citing court statistics from March. There were nearly 330,000 cases filed, 260,000 of which were still pending as of earlier this summer.

In a joint statement provided to The Hill, attorneys for the plaintiffs described the settlement as a tremendous victory for the servicemembers.

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This historic agreement represents a tremendous victory for the thousands of men and women who bravely served our country and returned home with life-altering hearing injuries, the attorneys wrote in the statement. We are proud to have obtained this settlement, which ensures that those who suffered hearing damage will receive the justice and compensation they so rightly deserve.

Plaintiffs claimed that 3M knowingly sold earplugs to the U.S. military from 2000 to 2015 that had design defects.

The military earplugs purported to protect against hearing loss from close-range firearms and other loud impact noises, but according to the plaintiffs, the earplugs were faulty and can slightly loosen and subtly move out of the ear canal just enough for the loud sounds to cause hearing damage.

Attorneys for the plaintiffs said their clients reported side effects from the earplugs including hearing loss, tinnitus, permanent hearing damage and deafness.

In its statement Tuesday announcing the settlement, 3M made clear that the agreement was not an admission of liability and maintained that, The products at issue in this litigation are safe and effective when used properly.

3M is prepared to continue to defend itself in the litigation if certain agreed terms of the settlement agreement are not fulfilled, the company added in its statement.

This agreement, reached through the mediation process that 3M has previously disclosed, is structured to promote participation by claimants and is intended to resolve all claims associated with the Combat Arms Earplug products, 3M wrote in the statement. The agreement includes all claims in the multi-district litigation in Florida and in the coordinated state court action in Minnesota, as well as potential future claims.

Updated at 11:42 a.m.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
The Sioux Falls School District logo as displayed at the district's central office, the Instructional Planning Center, on Monday, Aug. 14, 2023.

Between a school board work session in the press box at Howard Wood Field, to a regular school board meeting at the Instructional Planning Center, Sioux Falls School Districts top administrators and school board members had a busy day on Monday.

Both meetings were chock full of newsworthy nuggets for students, parents, teachers and taxpayers alike in the district.

Here are some of the things you should know.

Chronic absenteeism grant

The district announced it was awarded a $1.5 million three-year grant from the South Dakota Department of Education to address chronic absenteeism. The Argus Leader last reported on the districts grant application two months ago.

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Research has shown the six most effective methods for improving student attendance include one-to-one family and student relationships, transportation provisions, course work recovery, access to mental health support, student involvement and personal communication.

Focus will be put on Garfield, Hawthorne, Hayward and Terry Redlin elementary schools, as well as George McGovern and Whittier middle schools, with this grant. The district has hired six attendance liaisons at those schools: Reginald Burkette, Brandi Everette, Jessica Walton, Rochelle Holloway, Kristal Shoffeitt and Suzannah Reaves, respectively.

Home visits, routine texts, connections to community resources, transportation and advertising and communications strategies are also being implemented to work on this issue.

Its really hard to learn if youre not in school, board president Carly Reiter said. Its not the same as getting a worksheet to take home. Teachers are so important in that role.

School safety update

District safety coordinator Dave Osterquist presented the board with the districts safe and secure schools plan for the year, including updates on the districts use of new programs like Safe2Say, comprehensive school threat assessment guidelines, an application for a grant to upgrade security at Howard Wood Field, and more.

Ongoing safety measures include drills, exercises, radio network, school resource officers, visitor management, secured facilities, video cameras and notification systems.

Some school administrators are also piloting a new field testing app on their phones that they can use to pull up each schools safety plan as needed.

As a result of an October 2022 swatting call at Lincoln High School, Osterquist and other district stakeholders came up with a secure classroom protocol that will allow learning to continue in classrooms even if theres a distraction in the hallway, he explained.

Gymnastics equipment to be sold

The school districts old gymnastics equipment will be sold next month as its no longer necessary, useful or suitable for school purposes, according to a resolution adopted by the school board Monday night.

Pending sale of the equipment follows the boards decision in July to officially adopt the districts recommendation of cutting the gymnastics program from the budget.

The equipment has been appraised by 12 different people. Notice of sale of the property will be prepared by district business manager Todd Vik, and sealed bids for the property are due to the district by 11 a.m. Sept. 11.

Lunch update

All students who qualify for free and reduced-price lunch will get free school lunch this school year, district business manager Todd Vik explained during a school board work session on Monday afternoon.

Vik said this is the first year the district has tried this new approach to feeding students and will serve as a kind of pilot program to see how its received.

This article originally appeared on Sioux Falls Argus Leader: 4 decisions by the Sioux Falls School Board you need to know for the start of the year
Four people, including two children, were found dead in their North Texas home Monday in an apparent murder-suicide, Allen police said.

Officers were dispatched to the 1200 block of Aberdeen Drive in Allen around 8:45 a.m. in response to a welfare concern call, officials said. A relative notified police that they had been locked out of their house for about two hours and family members inside were not answering the door.

When officers entered the residence, they found four people who were dead. Police told KDFW-TV that the victims were shot and identified the dead as a father and mother Farman Sherwani and Layla Sherwani and their 12-year-old son Shaheen Sherwani and 2-year-old son Mateen Sherwani. Police did not say which person is suspected of killing the others.

Police told KDFW that the couples 4-year-old daughter, Lyian Sherwani, drowned earlier this month and investigators believe the girls death was a factor in the triple murder and suicide.

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The Allen Independent School District confirmed to KDFW-TV that one of the victims, Shaheen, was in the fifth grade at Olson Elementary.

School officials told parents in a note Monday evening that a student had died unexpectedly, KDFW reported. Counselors were available to help students at Olson Elementary on Tuesday.

Allen police are investigating the killings, officials said.

Allen is in Collin County, about 50 miles northeast of Fort Worth.

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Shelling has killed five entire families in Sudan's battle-scarred Darfur region, a human rights activist told CBS News on Monday as the country's army chief made his first trip abroad since the outbreak of war in April.

Medics and witnesses told the AFP news agency that 39 civilians, most of them women and children, were killed on on August 22 by the shelling in the city of Nyala, in Sudan's South Darfur state, where fighting between the army and paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) has intensified.

A picture taken on June 16, 2023, shows a covered body outside a house in the West Darfur state capital El Geneina, amid ongoing fighting between two generals in war-torn Sudan. / Credit: AFP via Getty Images

The victims, including all members of five families, were killed in just one day, Gouja Ahmed, a human rights activist originally from Nyala, told CBS News on Monday, adding that some other families in the area had lost three quarters of their members.

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Images posted online by Ahmed show dozens of bodies on the ground covered in shrouds, as well as men placing the dead in a large grave.

Darfur has been plagued by deadly clashes since war erupted in the region 20 years ago and the feared Janjaweed militia precursors of the RSF  were unleashed on ethnic minority rebels.

More than 50,000 people have fled Nyala since August 11 this year due to the latest round of violence, according to the United Nations.

There was also violence in Sudan's capital city of Khartoum late Monday, as the army bombarded several RSF positions, residents told AFP.

"No time for discussion now"

Sudan's army chief, Gen. Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, was to hold talks Tuesday with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, a key ally, on the developments in his war-ravaged country and bilateral ties, according to the Sovereign Council, Sudan's highest authority.

Burhan, who traded his trademark military fatigues and green beret for a suit and tie, was greeted by Sisi Tuesday in Egypt's northern coastal city of El Alamein after flying from Port Sudan, Egyptian media reported.

Port Sudan, which has been spared the violence tearing the country apart, is where government officials and the U.N. have relocated their operations. It is also the site of Sudan's only functioning airport.

The war between Burhan and his former deputy-turned-rival Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, who commands the RSF, has raged since April 15. It has spread from Khartoum and Darfur in the west to Kordofan and Jazira state, killing thousands and forcing millions to flee their homes.

For months, the RSF had besieged Burhan inside military headquarters in Khartoum, but last week the general made his first public foray outside the compound to review troops. On Monday he made a fiery address to troops in Port Sudan, vowing to fight the RSF to "end the rebellion."

"We are mobilizing everywhere to defeat this rebellion, defeat this treason, by these mercenaries who come from all over the world," Burhan told cheering soldiers. "There is no time for discussion now. We are concentrating all our efforts on the war, to put an end to the rebellion."

His comments came a day after Dagalo released a statement detailing a 10-point "vision" to end the war and build "a new state."

The plan calls for "civilian rule based on democratic norms" and "a single, professional, national military institution"  the very sticking point which turned the former allies into rivals. Before they fell out, Burhan, backed by Dagalo, became Sudan's de facto ruler in a 2021 coup that derailed a fragile transition to civilian rule.

The coup upended a transition painstakingly negotiated between military and civilian leaders following the 2019 ouster of longtime autocrat Omar al-Bashir.

Burhan's latest trip follows multiple diplomatic efforts to broker an end to the violence in Sudan, with a series of U.S.- and Saudi-brokered ceasefires being systematically violated. In July, Egypt, which shares borders with Sudan and has been flooded by refugees from its neighbor, hosted a crisis meeting attended by African leaders to seek a solution.

Conservative estimates from the Armed Conflict Location & Event Data project show that nearly 5,000 people have been killed in the conflict, but the real figure is thought to be much higher, and the United Nations says more than 4.6 million people have been displaced by the fighting both inside and outside Sudan.

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Even though reading is a year-round activity, autumn is the perfect season to curl up with a new book. So as the end of summer draws closer, grab a warm drink, sweater and fresh stack of books, because these are some highly anticipated book releases you won't want to miss.

September

"The Fraud" by Zadie Smith (September 5)

Bestselling author Zadie Smith's newest historical fiction novel, "The Fraud," is based on a real-life court case that divided 19th-century England. The Tichborne trial, in which a working-class butcher claimed to be the heir to a vast fortune, captivated Victorian England for years. Smith tries to capture that feverish interest through a cast of characters, including Eliza Touchet, the housekeeper of Victorian novelist William Ainsworth, and Andrew Bogle, the formerly enslaved Jamaican man and star witness for the Tichborne case. Smith's fans will instantly recognize the earmarks of her style: "the boisterous narrative intelligence; the ear for dialogue; the chronic absence of boring sentences," Abhrajyoti Chakraborty wrote for The Guardian. Preorder here.

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"Land of Milk and Honey" by C Pam Zhang (September 26)

C Pam Zhang's "exquisite and seductive second novel" centers on an unnamed young chef living in a post-apocalyptic, not-so-distant future, where smog has spread and blocked out the sun, Publisher's Weekly summarized. With food crops disappearing, the chef takes a job, working for an "elite research community" on a mountain in Italy where the fridges are packed with endangered meats and bountiful produce. As she begins cooking exclusively for those who can afford to escape the climate disaster, the narrator grapples with what it means to survive in a highly inequitable world. "Mournful and luscious," Kirkus Reviews raved, "a gothic novel for the twilight of the Anthropocene Era." Preorder here.

More September books: "Sure, I'll Join Your Cult: A Memoir of Mental Illness and the Quest to Belong Anywhere" by Maria Bamford (Sept. 5), "Holly" by Stephen King (Sept. 5), "Bright Young Women" by Jessica Knoll (Sept. 19), "The Unsettled" by Ayana Mathis (Sept. 23 )

October

"Let Us Descend" by Jesmyn Ward (October 3)

Two-time National Book Awardwinning author Jesmyn Ward is set to deliver what Oprah Daily called "her most masterful work yet" with "Let Us Descend." Born enslaved in pre-Civil War rice fields of North Carolina, Annis also happens to be the daughter of the man who owns her. A combination of magical realism and historical fiction, the novel pits "ancestral wisdom and human connection against the arbitrary brutality of slavery," Oprah Daily added. Ward may not say anything new about slavery in "Let Us Descend," Kirkus Reviews noted, "but her language is saturated with terror and enchantment." Preorder here.

"The Woman in Me" by Britney Spears (October 24)

Britney Spears' long-awaited memoir finally arrives this October. The pop icon chronicles her fight to be released from court-ordered conservatorship, which spawned the #FreeBritney movement. The memoir is described as a "brave and astonishingly moving story about freedom, fame, motherhood, survival, faith and hope" in the book's blurb. This celebrity memoir will likely be causing a huge buzz this fall and is a must-read for pop culture enthusiasts. Preorder here.

More October books: "Family Meal" by Bryan Washington (Oct. 10), "The Exchange: After the Firm" by John Grisham (Oct. 17), "Going Infinite: The Rise and Fall of a New Tycoon" by Michael Lewis (Oct. 3), "The Reformatory" by Tananarive Due (Oct. 31)

November

"The Future" by Naomi Alderman (November 7)

Naomi Alderman, the author of the critically acclaimed novel "The Power," is back with another speculative fiction book set in the near future. "The Future" tells the story of an international group of rogues fighting against the billionaires of the tech world. An overly controlling social media mogul and a survivalist influencer clash in this hauntingly familiar speculative tale. Announcing the boos release last year, publisher Simon & Schuster called the novel a blend of "intelligence and storytelling, marrying white-knuckle narrative propulsion with an intellectually dazzling critique of the world we have made," per The Associated Press. Preorder here.

"Critical Hits: Writers Playing Video Games," edited by Carmen Maria Machado and J. Robert Lennon (November 21)

This anthology features a collection of essays that explore the cultural impact of video games from the perspective of an exciting group of writers, including Kwame Adjei-Brenyah, Alexander Chee and Hanif Abdurraqib. Likely to be more personal than most books about the video game industry, "Critical Hits" offers a group of "stylish, passionate and searching essays" in which the authors use the medium as a lens to discuss culture, representation, grief and the ways technology reflects all that, per publisher Graywolf Press. Preorder here.

More November books: "Hot Springs Drive" by Lindsay Hunter (Nov.4), "The Vulnerables" by Sigrid Nunez (Nov. 7), "To Free the Captives: A Plea for the American Soul" by Tracy K. Smith (Nov. 7), "The Book of Ayn" by Lexi Freiman (Nov. 14)

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Scale Marketing employees work at their desks in their new office space in River North on Aug. 23, 2023. (Eileen T. Meslar/Chicago Tribune)

Its no secret that companies have been downsizing their spaces in the wake of the pandemic and, in many cases, leaving the Loop for trendier digs in Fulton Market.

But a budding trend is unfolding in the wake of those moves. The Loop spaces companies are leaving behind are available for lease at bargain rates, making it possible for smaller firms and nonprofits to move into nicer spaces than they would otherwise be able to afford.

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There is such a high vacancy rate in the Loop that now is a good time for any organization to take advantage of the great deals out there, said Valerie Hawthorne-Berry, senior director of facilities for Heartland Alliance, a Chicago-based human rights organization. Heartland Alliance is moving this November from an old office property at 208 S. LaSalle St. into a bright modern location in the East Loop with advanced conference facilities, a new fitness club and a giant food court.

That deal could not have gotten done a couple of years ago when things were really hot, said Andrew Davidson, executive managing director of Transwestern, who helped broker Heartlands new lease.

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The abundance of available space is making it easier for some firms to upgrade to offices with more amenities and natural light. Nonprofits, which typically dont have excess cash for workplace frills, are among those that have been able to upgrade their spaces. And many organizations are finding that a spiffy new workplace can help get people back into the office.

Its made my commute so much more bearable, said Grecca Gonzalez, senior strategist with Scale Marketing, which just moved from an old River North loft building to 515 N. State St., a Class A property with a modern fitness club, private nooks to take phone calls, modern conference facilities and small touches like an espresso machine. When you walk in, theres a sense of pride, you stand up a little straighter, and its a great feeling.

The new Scale Marketing office space in River North is seen Aug. 23, 2023. The property has private nooks to take phone calls and modern conference facilities. (Eileen T. Meslar/Chicago Tribune)

Such opportunities are likely to become more common as employees work from home and companies keep shedding space, pushing the markets sky-high vacancy rate even higher, Davidson said.

By midyear, 28% of downtowns 160 million square feet of office space was available, a record high and up from 24.8% at midyear 2022, according to a Colliers International report.

Its not just for nonprofits, its for everyone, Davidson said. Obviously, as the market gets softer, and its going to get softer, were going to see landlords get more and more aggressive.

Heartland Alliance toured eight or nine buildings before choosing 55 E. Monroe St., a 1.2 million square foot office and retail property owned by PGIM Real Estate, Hawthorne-Berry said. Landlords typically offered between nine and 12 months of free rent.

Thats a substantial amount of money, she said. Landlords were really reaching out.

Hawthorne-Berry estimates Heartland Alliance, which provides housing, health care, job training and other services for the unemployed, refugees, immigrants and many others, will save more than $4 million over the next few years.

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We will be able to put that money back into our programs, she said.

Companies are still calculating how much space they need post-pandemic, and many that are signing new leases have decided they need less space.

Everybodys a little cautious, I dont care if youre a nonprofit or a company, said Gregg Witt, a principal with commercial real estate firm Cresa. You dont want to overcorrect. If you rent 20,000 square feet and decide to go down to 5,000, you dont want to later realize that you needed 9,000.

JCFS Chicago, a social service agency that works with refugees, children, people with disabilities and others, has decided to shrink its downtown footprint, President and CEO Stacey Shor said. Many staff members work remotely several days per week, and the group no longer needs the 33,000 square feet it now rents at 216 W. Jackson Blvd., a Class C building constructed in 1899. This week the agency moves into 11,000 square feet at 230 W. Monroe St., a 1970s-era Class B property. Its new lease, which Witt helped put together, will save it $400,000 each year in rent.

We are a nonprofit and those who invest in us expect their money will help someone get counseling and improve their mental health, or help a refugee resettle in Chicago, so we have to be good stewards, Shor said.

And although 230 W. Monroe St. does not have the same amenities provided by the glittering new trophy towers along the Chicago River or in Fulton Market, it provides a health club, conference facilities and better-lit, updated offices.

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We also want clients to feel comfortable, and staff deserves the chance to work in a space that feels good, Shor said. In 216 West Jackson we have a warren of offices, some down dark hallways or without windows, but in our new space youll be able to see whos in the office.

Signing new lease deals can also get tenants out of financially troubled buildings, whose owners may have trouble maintaining the properties or funding improvements, said Davidson. Like an increasing number of downtown towers, the office portion of Heartlands current home at 208 S. LaSalle St. had been ensnared in a foreclosure lawsuit, but the owners of 55 E. Monroe St. have no debt on the property.

They have the wherewithal, Davidson said. Youve got to start asking whether the building youre in can perform, because it might be in receivership or could be on a watchlist.

Hawthorne-Berry said Heartlands new space, which will be less than half the size of its current office, is under construction and the building owners picked up the cost. It will have more open space, more windows, and rooms where employees can gather in teams or seek out privacy.

We have a lot of cubicles and single offices at 208, and very little collaborative space, she said. If we went looking in 2017 or 2018, there would have been no way, from a financial standpoint, that the market would have allowed us to do this.

Hawthorne-Berry has some advice for groups with expiring leases.

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Sit down, examine how you are utilizing your space, start having conversations with a really good broker and see what the market has for you, she said.

Scale Marketing employees work in their new office space in Chicago's River North. (Eileen T. Meslar/Chicago Tribune)

Not every office user is shrinking. Gonzalezs Scale Marketing outgrew its old office at 730 N. Franklin St., and the massive amount of vacant space on the market gave it the opportunity to expand and upgrade at a lower cost, said Managing Partner Morrie DeZara.

Five years ago, the firm occupied 4,500 square feet and employed about 10 people, but since then it grew to roughly 60, he added. And although Scales employees work remotely part of the time, most staff come downtown on the same two days so they can meet and collaborate in person with their colleagues, so a smaller footprint wasnt an option.

We also wanted to step up into an A office, said DeZara, so Michael Heaney and Mark Montana, a brokerage team from Avison Young, found the firm almost 17,000 square feet of ready-made space on the 23rd floor of 515 N. State St. We fell in love with it immediately.

Derek Faust, a senior strategist at Scale, said he drives in twice a week from the north suburbs, and the sleek, modern space makes it easier to speak with clients and co-workers.

At the old office we were on top of each other, he said, and here the space absorbs sound instead of projecting it, so we can talk with others without being shushed.

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And the bargain basement price isnt even its best feature, DeZara said.

This is a wow space, and Im confident this is going to help us hire and retain top talent, he said. We feel like we hit the jackpot.
Insider asked Icelandic locals about mistakes they often see tourists make.

Visitors who ignore warning signs at popular sites can suffer serious injury or death, one said.

Tourists who only stay in Reykjavik have to drive long distances to the country's natural wonders.

In 2022, 1.7 million tourists visited Iceland, according to the Icelandic Tourist Board.

Insider asked Icelandic locals about mistakes they often see tourists make while visiting the land of fire and ice.

Here are the six biggest missteps.

Relying on sparse public transportation instead of renting a car is one mistake people make while visiting Iceland.

A car drives on a mountain road near the village of Midsandur, Iceland. Sergei Gapon/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images

In Iceland, public-transportation options include a public bus, ferry lines, and domestic flights. But Anna Ragna, who was born and raised in Iceland and moved to the US in 2015, recommends renting a car in order to have more freedom of movement across the country.

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"A lot of the buses are there to mostly ferry tourists, and they will almost always upcharge you for just a basic bus ride," Ragna said. "I always recommend getting a rental car because then you can actually drive with your own free will and you're not limited to public transportation and you can go further and do more and explore more."

Booking accommodations in Reykjavik for the entire duration of your trip adds lots of unnecessary driving time.

Reykjavik, the capital city of Iceland. Boyloso / Getty Images

Many of Iceland's natural wonders are located long drives from the capital city. Davi Geir Jonasson, owner of Vik Expeditions, told Insider that it's better to spend some nights staying outside of Reykjavik in order to minimize the amount of driving time.

"You come to Iceland for nature, and staying in Reykjavik, you're always spending four or five hours every day driving back and forth," he said.

Tips are not expected in Iceland, so don't try to force your server to accept one.

A restaurant in Akureyri, Iceland. Joaquin Gomez Sastre/NurPhoto via Getty Images

Tipping is commonplace in the US. But in Ragna's experience, tips aren't always appreciated by Icelandic service workers.

"A lot of times there would be tips on the table for the waitress and they say, 'We can't take it,' and then it'll end up turning into an argument, and that's something that happened quite often," Ragna said.

Stepping on the delicate moss that blankets lava fields throughout Iceland can damage it for decades.

Moss growing in Iceland. Mark Downey/Getty Images

While Icelandic moss can weather the country's harsh climate, the slow-growing organism is very fragile when stepped on, The Reykjavik Grapevine reported.

"It grows incredibly slowly and it can take up a hundred years just to grow a simple patch," Ragna said.

Visitors who expect to see the midnight sun in the winter or the northern lights in the summer will be disappointed.

The northern lights in Iceland. Shutterstock / David Varga

The northern lights are usually visible in Iceland between September and April, according to Visit Iceland. The midnight sun season occurs between May and August, according to Guide to Iceland.

But Vanessa Terrazas, an Icelandic local who helps run adventurous elopements with Iceland Wedding Planner, said she often encounters tourists who didn't do their research and came to Iceland during the wrong season for the phenomenon they were hoping to see.

"That happens a lot," she said.

Ignoring warning signs at popular tourist sites can lead to serious injury or death.

A warning sign in the Icelandic Westfjords. Finn Huwald/picture alliance via Getty Images

In addition to running a tour company, Jonasson has spent more than 15 years as a member of Iceland's search-and-rescue team. He's seen firsthand what happens when tourists ignore warning signs at dangerous tourist sites like the Reynisfjara black-sand beach, where there have been 12 emergency calls and five deaths over the past decade, according to Reykjavik Excursions.

"People need to realize that this raw beauty in Iceland is also created by this elemental power," Jonasson said. "We have violent storms, volcanoes, glaciers, and we treat them with respect, in a careful way. In Iceland, a warning sign is put up because someone has died or multiple people have died. It's not just because something might happen."

Read the original article on Insider
Six people are being charges after an investigation into a postal carrier robbery that happened nearly a year ago in Cabarrus County.

The Cabarrus County Sheriffs Office sent a news release Tuesday announcing the charges against six suspects in connection with a robbery of a postal carrier in November 2022.

>>Shocking: Concord mail carrier robbed at gunpoint; police search for suspect

According to investigators, the suspects allegedly stole hundreds of personal and business checks. Its not clear how much money was stolen as a result of the robbery.

Detectives said the following people are facing charges:

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TreMayne Jamon Chapman, charged with Common Law Robbery, Safecracking, Felony Possession of Stolen Goods, Resist-Delay or Obstruct

Savoy Grissett, charged with Common Law Robbery, Safecracking, Felony Possession of Stolen Goods, Resist-Delay or Obstruct, Obtaining Property by False Pretenses, Uttering a Forged Instrument

Iizayak Bostick, charged with Obtaining Property by False Pretenses, Conspiracy (two counts)

Jasaan Rodgers-Freeman, charged with Obtaining Property by False Pretenses, Conspiracy

Shaqwan Keshawn Davis, charged with Common Law Robbery, Safecracking, Felony Possession of Stolen Goods, Resisting

Kaliyah Enfinique Hopper, with active felony warrants for Conspiracy, Obtaining Property by False Pretenses (four counts)

MORE RELATED STORIES:

According to the sheriffs office, all of the suspects except for Hopper were located and arrested. If you have information on Hoppers whereabouts, youre urged to call 704-920-3000.

(WATCH: Thieves rob letter carrier in Third Ward at gunpoint, stealing USPS keys)
Monday, Aug. 28, marks the 60th anniversary of the March on Washington. The 1963 event was perhaps the most powerful and enduring moment of the Civil Rights Movement. Most of us remember the march for Martin Luther King Jr. s I Have a Dream speech, but the full story behind the march is not as well-known. Here are six things you might not know about the March on Washington.

A. Philip Randolph came up with the idea to march on Washington in 1941

Before King was even born, Asa Philip Randolph was actively organizing and fighting for the rights and betterment of Black America. A labor leader who once ran for office with the Socialist Party, A. Philip Randolph, as he was known, organized the nations first officially recognized Black trade union  the Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters  in 1925. By 1941, Randolph was threatening a march on Washington to protest wartime segregation, which led President Franklin D. Roosevelt to issue an order banning discrimination within the defense industry. Randolph later pressured President Harry S. Truman into desegregating the military. In 1957, Randolph returned to the idea of a large event in Washington, organizing nearly 25,000 people coming to the city for the Prayer Pilgrimage for Freedom, which featured a keynote address by a young Martin Luther King Jr. Finally, Randolph served as the head of the efforts to organize the 1963 march, and his influence put jobs and economic empowerment among the top demands made at that event.

The Big Six put aside their differences to make the march happen

Randolph and King were far from the only major forces behind the March on Washington. In addition to Kings Southern Christian Leadership Conference, four other major organizations worked together to organize the march: the NAACP, the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee, the Congress of Racial Equality and the National Urban League. Together with Randolph and King, the leaders of these groups formed the Big Six who came together in the summer of 1963 to plan the unprecedented gathering that was to take place. These organizations, which did much of the organizing for the march in a townhouse in Harlem, found a way to cooperate by putting aside tactical and personal differences, such as the NAACPs focus on legal action, COREs links to business, or tensions between SNCC and SCLC over Kings prominence in the overall movement. The leaders also put aside generational divides; Randolph was 74 at the time of the march, while SNCC Chairman John Lewis was only 23.

Bayard Rustin organized the march from behind the scenes

While Randolph was the driving force behind marching on Washington and King its most prominent public face, the actual planning of the event was largely done by their longtime collaborator, Bayard Rustin. Randolph and Rustin had long worked together, with Rustin being a key organizer of the proposed 1941 march and the 1957 prayer event. Having worked with King in 1957, Rustin became a mentor to the young preacher, teaching him much about nonviolent resistance. But Rustins personal life  he was a former Communist and openly gay, later becoming an LGBTQ rights advocate  limited his ability to publicly lead the growing Civil Rights Movement. Thus, his work, including organizing the 1963 march, was largely conducted behind the scenes.

Other advocates for Black rights opposed the march

Even though the organizers of the march were able to set aside their differences, other advocates for Black rights were not on board. In a reflection from people involved in the planning process that was recently published in The New York Times, one SCLC worker recalled members of the Nation of Islam removing flyers for the event, as the Nation opposed the integrationist goal of the march organizers. Another ally, President John F. Kennedy, also initially tried to discourage the march, fearing that it would end in violence and that this would endanger civil rights legislation. Kennedy was ultimately relieved when the march happened peacefully, and met with several of its leaders after it concluded.

The march was a star-studded event

While the march was the brainchild of a variety of activists and organizations, it was also an event that brought out some of the biggest stars in the country. Harry Belafonte was a major force in bringing celebrities to the march, convincing Randolph, Rustin and King that star power would help spread the message. Ossie Davis, who attended alongside Ruby Dee, was heavily involved in the planning as well. Led by Belafonte, the celebrities who came to the march included Sammy Davis Jr., Mahalia Jackson, James Baldwin and Diahann Carrol. But the list was not limited to Black celebrities; Bob Dylan, Marlon Brando, Paul Newman, Rita Moreno and Joanne Woodward all attended. Performers at the march included Joan Baez, Bob Dylan and Peter, Paul and Mary.

The I Have a Dream Speech Was Not Always The Plan

As it was decided that King would give the keynote address at the march, he had been working on his speech for some time. The preacher wrote multiple versions of the address, none of which exactly matched what he said on Aug. 28. He had also talked about his dream in previous speeches and sermons, including a 1962 speech at a high school gym in North Carolina and a version he had delivered in Detroit. During the March on Washington, the first half of the speech King gave was very substantive, highlighting the civil and economic inequalities that Black people continued to face, but wasnt quite rousing the crowds the way organizers intended. Mahalia Jackson, familiar with his Detroit speech, called out to King from behind the podium, yelling, Tell them about the dream, Martin. King, an experienced preacher, responded by going back to the words he had spoken at those earlier occasions, and thus the country was introduced to what became one of the nations most famous and inspiring speeches.

Sixty years later, Kings words and the hard work of numerous people and organizations still resonate. And given the remaining challenges, ranging from economic inequality to deadly racist violence, the message of the March on Washington remains as important as ever.
The body of a 64-year-old woman was discovered at Bryce Canyon National Park on Aug. 26.

In a news release, the National Park Service said the victim was Jeanne Roblez Howell of Sedona, Arizona. Bryce Canyon National Park received a report on the evening of Aug. 25 that she had yet to return from her 2 p.m. hike on a trail called Fairyland Loop.

Howells body was discovered later in the early hours of Aug. 26 in Campbell Canyon, which is located nearly a mile east of the Fairyland Loop.

A Garfield County medical examiner pronounced Jeanne Roblez Howell dead at the Campbell Canyon scene.

The news release noted that on Aug. 25, Bryce Canyon National Park experienced heavy rain due to a thunderstorm and that more flash flooding was seen along the Fairyland Loop trail.

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Bryce Canyon National Park's visual information specialist Peter Densmore told TODAY.com via email that a medical examiner is conducting an investigation to determine Howell's cause of death, but " circumstances of this incident are similar to other fatalities involving flash floods."

This is a tragic event, and our deepest sympathy goes out to the victims friends and family, Allana Olbrich, Bryce Canyons acting superintendent, said in the news release. I also want to express the parks appreciation for the support weve received from the Garfield County Sheriffs Office and the Utah Department of Public Safety.

How hard is the Fairyland Trail?

The Fairyland Loop is an 8-mile hike in southern Utah that typically takes 4-5 hours to complete. It is one of five trails in the Bryce Canyon National Park Scenic Trails Historic District. According to the National Park Service, it is considered "strenuous" in nature due to rapid elevation gain and its length.

Fairyland Trail is located 313.2 miles away from Sedona, Arizona, where Howell was from.

This article was originally published on TODAY.com
A 69-year-old was shot dead in a robbery gone awry, police in Georgia say.

Now a man police say was out on probation related to a different robbery has been charged.

Kenneth Stanley Dial was on a morning walk Monday, Aug. 28, when he was gunned down at a park in LaGrange, according to the citys police department.

Officers were called to the area at about 8 a.m. and found a man shot multiple times, police said. Witnesses also told police they heard gunshots earlier that morning.

The deadly encounter unfolded near Sunny Point Park, a sprawling recreation area on West Point Lake that has campgrounds, bank fishing and a boat ramp for access to the lake, according to its website.

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An acquaintance who frequents the park found Dial and called 911, police said. He died at the scene.

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Billy Joe Tyler III, 38, was arrested at about 9 p.m. and charged with murder in the deadly shooting, according to police.

Investigators believe Tyler tried to rob Dial before shooting and killing him, according to the police department. He was on active felony probation connected to a previous robbery in the Atlanta area at the time, police said.

Authorities didnt release additional details but said the shooting is under investigation.

LaGrange is about 70 miles southwest of downtown Atlanta.

Security guard shot dead trying to stop men from breaking into cars, Georgia cops say

Man being robbed of backpack pulls a gun and is killed by police, Colorado cops say

Hunters hear screaming and gunshots before finding mans body at rest stop, cops say
Each new school year offers students the gift of a fresh start. The fact that a teacher doesnt have preconceived notions about them offers students an opportunity to grow, but there are also challenges to a blank slate.

Sometimes, there are things a teacher does need to know, and a little communication from a parent can make a big difference.

Kellie Barragan, a kindergarten teacher in California with 12 years of experience, told HuffPost that if a student is having a rough time, the family can send a note or message with just three words: Handle with care. (You may have seen stories about this practice shared on social media.)

They dont need to elaborate, but it lets me know that this kiddo might need a little extra love and understanding that day. Its a really easy system, and its another way to show families I am on their team, Barragan said.

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You dont need to share every detail of what is happening in your family, and you and your child are entitled to your privacy. But the more a teacher knows about your child, the better they can meet their needs  academically, socially and emotionally.

If she doesnt hear from parents or receive the survey she sends home to families, and students dont attend a kindergarten sneak peek event before the start of the school year, then the only student information that Barragan might know is their name, date of birth and gender. If parents choose to share the students race and/or ethnicity and any medical issues when registering their child, shell have those as well.

HuffPost asked several teachers what they prefer to know about the students in their class at the beginning of the year.

1. Gender, Racial and Ethnic Identities

Gender identity is a delicate subject in certain states right now (Florida law, for example, prohibits teachers from using a childs chosen pronouns or any name other than that listed on the roster without a parents permission.) Yet, in most places, if your child identifies as a gender other than whats listed on the class roster, you should let the teacher know before the first day. This helps create a more welcoming environment for your child in the classroom, and teachers appreciate it when you prevent them from sticking their foot in their mouths.

The same goes for your childs name  let the teacher know if the one they want used is anything other than what theyll see printed on the class list.

Regarding gender and racial identity, letting the school know how your child identifies can help the school create class lists.

Knowing a students gender and ethnicity and/or race helps a school create balanced classrooms so that students feel safe at school and have others with whom they identify with in their class, Barragan said.

She added that the survey she sends home asks families about the holidays they celebrate throughout the year so I can make sure to acknowledge all holidays celebrated by my students to make my classroom a welcoming and inclusive place.

2. Family Structure

Many teachers have gotten into the habit of referring to students grown-ups instead of the less inclusive moms and dads. But old habits die hard, and its helpful to let a teacher know if youre a two-mom, two-dad, grandparent-led, auntie-led or any other family.

Its much easier to communicate positively and proactively at the beginning of the year than wait until the teacher inadvertently misspeaks and you have to tell them afterward.

Its helpful to let a teacher know if youre a two-mom, two-dad, grandparent, auntie or any other family.

Its helpful to let a teacher know if youre a two-mom, two-dad, grandparent, auntie or any other family.

3. Custody Issues

If youre in the middle of a divorce, your childs teacher probably isnt first on your list of people to confide in. But its important to make sure the teacher has an idea of what is going on.

In a more extreme example, Barragan recalled an incident where a childs father picked him up early from school. Then, the childs mother showed up at dismissal, asking where the child was.

Ill never forget the look on her face, Barragan said. Unbeknownst to her, the parents were in the middle of a messy divorce, and mom had a restraining order out on the dad. Since he was still listed as an emergency contact in the main office, he could pick up his daughter.

The student ended up being OK, but it was a very scary situation that could have been avoided, Barragan continued. School paperwork may be the last thing on your mind during such times, but keeping the school up-to-date is always necessary.

Even if things arent quite so dire, it can be helpful to keep the teacher up to speed. I can help ease the transition if I know that on Mondays a kid is switching from moms house to dads house, or I can help track patterns like this student cries for hours each Monday and isnt able to focus at school, Barragan explained.

4. Medical Concerns

Even if youve already filled out the forms and communicated with the school nurse, its helpful to ensure that a teacher knows about any medical issues that could impact the student during class.

Bryson Tarbet, a music teacher in Ohio, told HuffPost that specialist teachers who see students less frequently sometimes get left off the chain of communication about an issue (medical or other) with a specific student.

Sometimes we kind of get left out of the conversation for a variety of reasons. But think of us  the music teachers, the librarians, the PE teachers, art teachers, whatever you have in your school  being able to be a part of that complicated conversation, even if its as simple as carbon copying us on an email chain thats already happening.

5. Trauma

While youre certainly under no obligation to share any details, its incredibly helpful for teachers to know if your child has a history of trauma and may be sensitive to certain triggers.

Unfortunately, I teach in a school where a lot of my students have experienced a lot of trauma, and its really easy for me to accidentally trigger students because they dont necessarily know what those triggers are, Tarbet said.

This way, he said, he can avoid accidentally making the problem worse.

He added, For example, I have some students that I know that if I give them any sort of confrontation in front of the class, they are going to completely shut down.

More teachers are getting trauma-responsive training to avoid inadvertently escalating conflicts with students, but knowing specific students triggers and what alternative strategies have worked for them is always helpful.

Such knowledge and training, Tarbet said, has helped me deescalate situations so that my students can be successful in my classroom.

6. Learning Differences

If your child has a 504 plan or an IEP and receives special services or accommodations, your teacher should have access to that information. But its always helpful to hear a parents perspective as well.

You, as the parent, have been around the student for a long time. We as teachers try to do our best with what were given and the information we have, but sometimes it just takes us a little bit of learning to understand how we can set up your students for success, Tarbet said.

He recommended letting teachers know if theres certain strategies or accommodations or modifications that have been helpful in the past. Doing so provides another opportunity to establish communication with the teacher on a positive note, as its always better when your first interaction with one another isnt regarding a problem.

7. Interests And Aptitudes

Yes, teachers need to know big, serious things, like divorce, as well as medical and psychological concerns. But they also need to know the fun stuff. Is your child passionate about bugs, dinosaurs or outer space? This sort of information is equally important.

I want to know, what makes that student tick? Tarbet said.

Barragan encourages families to use her beginning-of-the-year survey to brag about their child. For any student, particularly one who may be struggling or shy, having a moment to shine as an expert, whether in insects or anatomy, can arm them with confidence for the rest of the year.

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On 29 August, Ukraine brought back the bodies of 84 more deceased defenders.

Source: Oleh Kotenko, Commissioner for Persons Missing under Special Circumstances, on Telegram

Quote from Kotenko: "The bodies of servicemen who gave their lives for Ukraine have been handed over. Today, the bodies of 84 defenders were brought back to their families."

Details: He added that the repatriation of the bodies from the temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine took place with the assistance of a number of agencies, law enforcement agencies and international organisations.

"The process of bringing back the bodies of fallen Ukrainian servicemen continues. It is taking place in accordance with the norms of the Geneva Convention," Kotenko concluded.

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On 29 August, Ukraine commemorates the defenders who died in the fight for Ukraine's independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Ukrainska Pravda is the place where you will find the most up-to-date information about everything related to the war in Ukraine. Follow us on Twitter, support us, or become our patron!
LAS VEGAS (KLAS)  Sunrise Hospital and the Nevada Donor Network came together to honor Bianca Olvera with a plaque on the hospitals Tree of Life.

It was a packed room inside the hospital as dozens came to celebrate the life of a 9-year-old girl who was electrocuted in a tragic accident in July.

Felicia Olvera described her daughter as wise beyond her years.

She was the type of person when I say she would literally give you the shirt off her back, she would, Olvera said. She was fierce. Any person that met her would tell you how fierce she was.

Bianca Olvera. (Courtesy, Olvera family)

With dreams of becoming a police officer, Bianca wanted to help in any way she could.

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So, becoming an organ donor was a fitting choice.

We wanted her to live on forever, Olvera explained. We wanted her to help another family because we never want another parent to go through what we were going through, its heartbreaking.

Major Kevin Honea for the Nevada Department of Public Safety called Bianca a true hero as multiple law enforcement agencies came to pay their respects and give her an honorary badge.

Just her desire to help people and at the core of law enforcement, you wake up every day knowing I get to put this badge on, and I get a chance to save somebody every day and its very powerful. And I think Bianca exemplified that, Honea said.

Tyre Gray from the Nevada Donor Network said its all organ donation education and outreach.

When we have an opportunity to say yes to donation, it has the impact of saving up to and healing up to 70 different lives, Gray said.

Not everyone gets a second chance.

There are currently over 600 Nevadans waiting for a lifesaving organ transplant and over 100,000 in the U.S.

Bianca donated her heart, liver and kidneys.

I want them to remember the firecracker she was, the beautiful smiles, the kindness and the pure innocence she had in her heart for everything, Olvera said. Shes patrolling heaven, I know she is up there rounding all of them up.

If youd like to learn more about organ donation, click here https://www.nvdonor.org/

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KLAS.
Since Roe v. Wade fell, nearly half of states in the U.S. have implemented near-total bans or severe restrictions on abortion care. Getting an abortion was never easy, even when Roe was the law of the land, but now its a logistical and financial nightmare  putting care out of reach for most people, especially poor people, folks of color and women who live in rural areas.

But theres a quiet revolution happening in the homes of American women and pregnant people across the country. People are taking matters into their own hands and ending unwanted pregnancies at home outside of a formal health care setting. And unlike the dangers of pre-Roe back-alley abortions, managing your own care with abortion pills is extremely safe and effective for anyone less than 13 weeks pregnant, according to the World Health Organization.

People can self-manage their abortions, they can do their own abortions, and it is safe. But we have to talk about it, Renee Bracey Sherman, founder and executive director of abortion storytelling organization We Testify, told HuffPost. People have to be able to see people who have been there and done it so that they know they can do it, too.

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People can self-manage their abortions ... and it is safe. But we have to talk about it.Renee Bracey Sherman, We Testify

More and more people are ending unwanted pregnancies at home with abortion pills  the combination of two FDA-approved drugs called mifepristone and misoprostol or misoprostol alone. Access to abortion pills has expanded rapidly since the pandemic because of the rise of online pharmacies in the U.S. and international websites that ship abortion pills to your home. Women who choose to self-manage abortions outside of a health care setting can access resources like the Miscarriage and Abortion Hotline for medical support or the Repro Legal Helpline for legal advice.

Despite the fact that self-managed abortion is only illegal in Nevada, the threat of criminalization for managing your own care is real. Dozens of women have been arrested, prosecuted and jailed for managing their own care  often because a rogue prosecutor in a deeply conservative area misapplies laws to further his own anti-choice agenda.

Before Roe, we had activists and folks like The Janes or Pat Maginnis or midwives and doulas, Black abortion providers in communities who provided safe abortions. That was because they spread the information to everyone in their communities to say, This is actually OK, Bracey Sherman said. We see talking about self-managed abortion in that same legacy.

Nineteen-year-old me would have loved to have known that there were pills I could have gotten to do my abortion at home, she added. Those of us who have been through it are trying to impart our abortion wisdom on people who are trying to get abortions right now.

HuffPost spoke with four We Testify storytellers who recently managed their abortions from the comfort of their own homes. These are their stories, edited and condensed, below.

"We had prepped everything beforehand, so I had my meals here. I had different soups, different snacks to eat, food with protein in them, and I made sure I had food that also had iron."

The College Student With Three Jobs Who Couldnt Fly Home To Kentucky

Kaniya (she/her) self-managed her abortion in 2023 in Maryland. She was between four and five weeks pregnant and used the mifepristone/misoprostol abortion pill method.

I decided to self-manage when I was looking for appointments at different clinics in the DMV [District of Columbia, Maryland, Virginia area]. A lot of the appointments were a month out and there were a lot of barriers to clinic care. I just wanted to have something where I could do the process on my own time, something that was convenient for me, something that didnt involve too many people and not going to a place where I might have to interact with protesters. Thats why I decided to self-manage. When I first found out that I was pregnant, I was actually going through finals. It was right before I finished out the school year. I have three jobs, so I remember going to work still and trying to hide my pregnancy. I also take summer classes. It was just a lot to deal with while working and me not being able to find an appointment; it was a very stressful situation. I knew I was going to self-manage in Maryland. Thats why I didnt tell my family back in Kentucky until after the process because I knew that they would want me to come home. Going back to Kentucky was really not an option. There were a few times I thought it would be easier having my family surrounding and supporting me through this process. But then I would be in Kentucky  and thats a very different situation compared to being in Maryland. [Kentucky has a near-total abortion ban in effect, although self-managed abortion is not a crime in the state.] I knew I felt more comfortable doing it in my apartment and not having to fly back home. The first day [after taking mifepristone] was just a regular day; I was even able to go to the grocery store and come back home and relax and watch TV. The next day when I took the miso, it was a completely different day. I wasnt so relaxed. I remember right after I took them I was laying in bed and I was like, Well, maybe, if I can fall asleep I wont feel as much of the cramping and everything. But I couldnt get to sleep without having to run to the bathroom. I would come back to my room and lay down and be like, OK this might be the worst few hours of my life. But I was in bed, eating soup, and we had prepped everything beforehand, so I had my meals here. I had different soups, different snacks to eat, food with protein in them, and I made sure I had food that also had iron. I had Gatorade and water and hot tea and my heating pad, and I was just checking my temperature every hour to make sure everything was good with that. After I expelled the pregnancy, I remember having to lie down right after because I was really lightheaded and nauseous. I had to eat something with protein right then and there. I know everyones experiences are different, but for me, it was very emotional. Just knowing that it was all over and everything I had to go through. I didnt have any regrets about the abortion, but the situation was so hard. I chose, for my own mental health, to try to make it as easy as possible with as little amount of people knowing. That was the best thing for me to do in the moment. For me, I wanted to handle it the way I wanted to handle it. I knew that it was my body and no one else could tell me how to handle it. There are some people who have this misconception that self-managing isnt safe. But this is a very safe thing that a lot of us do, and some people dont understand that. A lot of times youve met someone whos had an abortion, a lot of times you love someone whos had an abortion  you just might not be aware of their situation. Everyones situation is different. But at the end of the day, we are still people, and our decisions are our decisions to make. I just really love and support people that have gone through the same things that I have, because sometimes its not easy depending on your story. I just want people to know that.

"When my kids were asleep, I sat down on the couch and I remember looking out the window, and it was sunny outside. I just realized, Wow, I was blessed to have this opportunity to discontinue a pregnancy that I didnt want to continue."

The Mother Who Had To Take Care Of Her Kids

Angel (she/her) self-managed her abortion in 2023 in Texas. She was between four and six weeks pregnant and used the mifepristone/misoprostol abortion pill method.

When people ask about my experience self-managing, I always tell them its just convenient. You can do it at home, on your own time  not between clinic hours or having to travel. Also the privacy of being able to do so in my own home and not having to deal with protesters outside of a clinic or anyone knowing or talking about it. It was very private. It was even better being at home, somewhere youre comfortable. I already travel a lot as it is, so I cant really make time to go to a clinic. Ive had other abortions; one in-clinic abortion and Ive self-managed once before. I think I just have a high pain tolerance so I never had any discomfort or pain. I was still able to continue to do everything  running around with my kids, cooking dinner, taking the kids to school. I was able to still do my daily routine. It didnt stop me from doing anything. I have heard people say that they cramp, they get period cramps. But I personally have never experienced any pain. In a moment when my kids were asleep, I sat down on the couch and I remember looking out the window, and it was sunny outside. I just realized, Wow, I was blessed to have this opportunity to discontinue a pregnancy that I didnt want to continue. A lot of people dont have this option or dont have access to this, and even in the states where it is legal, a lot of people still cant access it. I guess in that moment I was really just shocked that I was blessed to be in that position  to make a decision for myself that I felt would better myself. I wasnt [worried about being criminalized] because I didnt tell anyone that I was pregnant. [At the time Angel self-managed her abortion, Texas was enforcing a six-week bounty hunter abortion ban and an additional near-total abortion ban.] At the same time, after the law was passed, I lived with that fear for a while. Everyone already knows I do abortion storytelling and how I feel so strongly about it, so thats another reason I was scared. It was a fear at first, but I just learned to keep things private, and no one knew but me and the person I was able to get the pills from in my community. Me, personally, Im just the type of person, like, I dont care  no ones gonna tell me that Im gonna go through with a pregnancy that I do not want. And I feel like thats how everyone is at the end of the day, whether theres a law in effect or not. A law is not gonna stop a person who really wants to end a pregnancy.

"I have no idea what it would look like if I had to actually leave my quarantine and go to a clinic to have my abortion. At that time, everything was so uncertain and so unsafe to be outside."

The New Yorker Stuck In Her Apartment During The Start Of COVID

Isabella (she/her) self-managed her abortion in 2020 in New York, just as the COVID pandemic hit the Northeast. She was between nine and 10 weeks pregnant and used the mifepristone/misoprostol abortion pill method.

When I self-managed my abortion, I actually already had the pills because I had ordered them in advance as a precaution. I knew a lot about how to take it at home, and I found out I was pregnant right when COVID first hit New York. So I was just avoiding most hospital or medical settings  outside settings in general. It was right before spring break, and we didnt have classes the week before and the week of spring break. And I couldnt leave home because of COVID. So I was already going to be at home, and I had a lot of free time to do it. I eventually had to go home, back to Brazil, for a lot of the pandemic. It was very interesting thinking how I could actually access abortion here [in New York] because in Brazil, its not reality. Its illegal in Brazil. Because of how stressful the whole situation was at the time  with COVID and people were still figuring out what was going to happen to visas and what was going to happen with school  I was already so stressed out that I was having a lot of headaches. Taking the mifepristone did not help much because I felt like everything I was already feeling just became more pronounced. The second day, the cramps were very strong, but Im used to it because of my endometriosis. What was different is that usually, for me, when I have such strong cramps, they would come in intervals, they would be very acute pains and last for short time periods. Because of the misoprostol, I had very strong cramps for a couple of hours. I already knew a lot about which of my endometriosis medications I could or could not take for the cramps because I have some that are for very strong cramps but actually reduce bleeding and I have some that help with cramps but theyre an anticoagulant, so theyre gonna make you bleed more. I was watching a TV series with my partner back then; I had a heating pad. It was a lot of pain, but it wasnt something that I couldnt manage. It never became an emergency or something that I couldnt handle. I did have post-complications because of my PCOS and endometriosis. I had to go in for a follow-up appointment when I was back in Brazil to remove the contents of the pregnancy surgically. Going into the surgery, I knew I couldnt actually say everything  I didnt say, Oh, I self-managed this abortion. I went to the doctor here in New York, we figured out that I still had to remove some of the content, but because of how quick things happened [during COVID], I went back to Brazil. I couldnt say there, like, Oh, I had an abortion and I need to finish it because the process as a whole is criminalized there. So I had to act like I had no idea, more like, Oh, Im having these cramps and they would just assume that it was a miscarriage from a pregnancy I didnt know about. In my case, I have no idea what it would look like if I had to actually leave my quarantine and go to a clinic to have my abortion. At that time, everything was so uncertain and so unsafe to be outside. It was so nice to be able to do it at home where, considering everything that was going on, I felt safe. It was really nice to be able to be home, watching [a TV] series and being in more control of what was happening.

"When I self-managed, I had access to the pills, so it wasnt a strain financially. My care didnt feel like it was in somebody elses hands. I knew that I had control over what I wanted to happen and I had no stress about it at all."

The Texas Native Whose Past Abortions Financially Drained Her

Bex (she/they) self-managed their abortion in 2023 in Colorado. She was between four and five weeks pregnant and used the mifepristone/misoprostol abortion pill method.

I self-managed my abortion in the spring. It was the fourth abortion that Ive had. Ive had surgical abortions in clinics before. This time around, I decided to self-manage because I feel pretty uncomfortable in medical spaces in general. Normally when Im at doctors offices I feel a little nervous and out of place, and that is how I felt in the clinics that I went to in the past. Even though they were really nice, I was just uncomfortable. The weekend was coming up and I was like, I dont want this to be in the back of my head the whole weekend. So, I took a pregnancy test the day before my period [was supposed to start] and it was positive, so I ended up taking the pills four-and-some-change weeks pregnant, which I knew had the possibility of not working as well, since there are some opinions that it doesnt work as well pre-five weeks. But I gave it a shot. I was super prepared to be on the couch, and then it ended up being so anticlimactic because I was early. Things were able to go extremely smoothly because I had access to pills, had access to pregnancy tests, already had heat patches and pads at my house. Everything was already in place. I was super prepared, but then I ended up feeling fine. I was running errands. I worked one day. Just because my bleeding wasnt heavy; Im sure if I was farther along it would have been different. But, honestly, I continued my life as normal. I did call the M+A [Miscarriage + Abortion] hotline when I was self-managing. I was trying to decide whether or not I needed to take a second dose of miso. Even though I know a lot about it, it was super nice to just talk to someone about, like, Have I bled enough? Do I think I bled enough? Is there any harm in taking more miso? Not really. Stuff like that. It was nice to have someone to call. Before, whenever I had surgical abortions, I lived in a rural area of Texas, and the wait times were really long to access clinical abortions. Each time, I had to wait two or three weeks for an appointment, and I lived about two hours from the clinic. So I had to go there twice because there were mandatory waiting periods. I was in college, so it was a huge strain on me, logistically and financially. I knew that experiencing unwanted pregnancy was stressful for me, in the past, and I think a lot of it was having to access it when it was really hard. I didnt have the money, I ended up having to take out a loan for my surgical abortions. Things like that made it just a huge strain and felt like a big life event. When I self-managed, I had access to the pills, so it wasnt a strain financially. My care didnt feel like it was in somebody elses hands. I knew that I had control over what I wanted to happen and I had no stress about it at all. I told my partner about it, and they were like, Sounds good. That was it. There was no stress about when my appointment is or how far out in advance these clinics are booked up or anything like that. I didnt realize what the source of my stress was prior because each time, I knew that I didnt want to continue the pregnancy, but this time it was completely stress-free, and that really surprised me. I want people to know that there is a way to access abortion in the first trimester thats safe and effective without them having to move their life around and travel across the country and find child care and ask off from work  all of these crazy logistical barriers that people are having to face in order to access care. I wish that they knew that this was an option. I think if a lot of people knew it was an option, then they would consider it.

If you or anyone you know needs assistance self-managing a miscarriage or abortion, please call the Miscarriage + Abortion Hotline at (833) 246-2632 for confidential medical support or the Repro Legal Helpline at (844) 868-2812 for confidential legal information and advice.

CORRECTION: An earlier version of this article misstated that self-managed abortion was illegal in South Carolina, but the recent six-week abortion ban implemented in the state actually repealed the statute that criminalized self-managed abortions.
Flooding and damaging winds will continue to be Idalia's legacy in part of the southeastern United States as the storm moves offshore on Thursday as a tropical storm, AccuWeather meteorologists warn. However, even though the storm is swinging out to sea, it's effects may linger long enough to continue to produce dangerous surf conditions through the Labor Day weekend.

Inland flooding is expected to be the most widespread impact from Idalia moving forward into this weekend.

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Rain from Idalia totaling 4 to 8 inches has occurred all the way from southern Georgia to the southeastern portion of the Carolinas into Thursday and will complicate vacation plans for some in the days leading up to the Labor Day weekend, AccuWeather Senior Meteorologist Bill Deger.

As Idalia exits by way of the Atlantic, surging waters on area rivers in the low country of the Carolinas and Georgia will lead to some road closures into the Labor Day weekend. Many of the rivers may not crest until sometime on Sunday or Monday. Water levels in most cases will reach moderate flood stage and may approach major flood stage in some locations.

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Wind gusts are expected to remain strong enough with the storm to cause localized damage along the coast of North Carolina into Thursday afternoon.

"The strongest winds will tend to occur near the center of Idalia and to the immediate south and east of the track," Rayno said. However, damaging gusts in squalls and thunderstorms can occur well away from the center and especially along the coast as winds blast inland from the ocean with little resistance.

Even though Idalia's peak winds have eased since landfall before 8 a.m. EDT on Wednesday, gusts near hurricane-force (74 mph) will persist near the Carolina coast well into Thursday midday. At this strength, a large number of trees may be toppled or damaged.

Tropical storm gusts of 40-60 mph will extend from the upper coast of South Carolina through much of eastern North Carolina.

Falling trees will take down scores of power lines. Where the damage is extensive, it could take many days after the storm until power is restored to all locations.

AccuWeather meteorologists are closely monitoring the trends of Idalia's projected path beyond its sweep across the Southeast. Latest indications point toward the storm taking a more convoluted path off the Southeast coast, as opposed to steadily moving out to sea for the storm's duration.

As steering breezes diminish off the coast of the Southeast, Idalia may meander offshore for a time during the Labor Day holiday weekend and much of next week. Idalia may weaken to a tropical rainstorm at some point. However, even if that occurs there is the chance the system regenerates as waters over much of the western Atlantic are rather warm. Steering breezes could draw Idalia, back toward the U.S. at some point late next week.

Regardless of whether what's left of Idalia comes back across part of the southeast U.S. with rain and perhaps wind, AccuWeather meteorologists say the storm's proximity to the coast will lead to a prolonged period of rough surf and rip currents for the Southeast beaches through the Labor Day weekend.

The conditions are likely to be dangerous for swimmers and hazardous for small craft, especially beyond the protection of intercoastal waterways. In some cases, lifeguards have left for the season due to other work and school obligations. The worst conditions will extend from northeastern Florida to southeastern Virginia, but dangerous rip currents can occur as far to the north as New England.

The combination of Franklin's distant swells and the proximity of Idalia's waves may take a toll on area beaches from northeastern Florida to the Carolinas and even along some beaches in the mid-Atlantic and southern New England.

Coastal flooding in the upper mid-Atlantic and New England may be limited to times of high tide and the full moon. Farther south, significant coastal flooding of up to a few feet is likely from in eastern North Carolina.

Idalia could help to enhance downpours across Bermuda starting this weekend. The island nation will get brushed by Franklin's outer rain bands into Wednesday night.

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Finding a great Polish sausage in Chicago is like spotting a W flag when the Cubs win or a pothole on Western Avenue: comically easy.

Explaining precisely what a Chicago-style Polish sausage is takes a little more time.

Despite the name, you wont find one inside Chicagos many great Polish sausage shops, like Andys Deli or Kurowskis Sausage Shop. There youll encounter dozens of kinds of kielbasa, a term that simply means sausage in Polish. While you can pick up kielbasa surowa, a pale fresh sausage, or kielbasa weselna, a twice-smoked sausage, neither place serves what most Chicagoans expect on a bun. Instead, these sausages are made with solely pork and are on the milder side.

Chicagoans favor an aggressively seasoned, coarsely ground sausage thats stuffed into a natural casing with an epic amount of garlic and then smoked. Usually, its made of a mix of pork and beef, though not universally. Most restaurants griddle it on a flat-top to crisp up the casing, though some prefer a level of crisp attainable only by dunking it in a deep fryer. Placed in a bun, the sausage is traditionally served with a swipe of yellow mustard, a heaping pile of soft sauteed onions, and a few spicy pickled chiles.

To say Chicago had a lot of Polish immigrants in the early 20th century is an understatement. According to Polish Chicago: Our History, Our Recipes by Joseph W. Zurawski, there were nearly 425,000 Polish residents in the city by 1928, representing its largest ethnic group and about 15% of the total population.

These immigrants brought along their traditional foodways, including their penchant for sausage-making. By then, some were already well established; 1918 proved to be a particularly fruitful year, when Mike Mikolajczyk started a sausage shop that would eventually become Andys Deli, and Joseph P. Slotkowski opened Slotkowskis Sausage Company. (Remember the last one.)

Yet, it took an immigrant from a different part of Europe to help popularize the Polish sausage Chicagoans know and devour today.

Jim Stefanovic was born in the town of Gostivar in 1901, which is currently located in the country of Macedonia. (When he was born, it was actually part of the Ottoman Empire, before becoming part of Yugoslavia.) Stefanovic left Europe in 1939 for Chicago and quickly found himself hawking taffy apples at the Maxwell Street Market, the citys largest outdoor market.

Stefanovic got a job at his aunts hot dog stand at the northwest corner of Maxwell Street and Halsted Avenue. According to Stefanovics grandson, Jim Christopoulos, he bought the stand from his aunt, renamed it Jims, and looked to differentiate it from a crowded field. At first, he was just selling hot dogs, but he wanted something new, Christopoulos said. So he went to Slotkowskis and had them make a sausage for him. Then he added the sauteed onions and mustard. Thats how it started.

While this sausage had many characteristics of traditional Polish sausages, particularly kielbasa zwyczajna, The Chicago Food Encyclopedia notes the new creation also had similarities to a hot dog, but with larger-diameter hog casings and more aggressive spicing.

This sausage became such a hit, copycat operations popped up. Express Grill, which is currently located right next to Jims Original, was actually started by one of Stefanovics nephews. Eventually, the Polish sausage became so synonymous with the market, the dish became known as a Maxwell Street Polish. Even after the area was cleared to make way for the expansion of the University of Illinois at Chicago, youll still find dozens of restaurants scattered around the city serving strikingly similar menus, all with Maxwell Street in their names.

Where are these Maxwell Street Polish sausages coming from? Most restaurants are tight-lipped about their sources. Christopoulos gladly told me that Jims Original started with Slotkowskis and then moved to Bobaks, but he now has a different provider that he didnt want to name. (Most of the stand owners said they simply didnt want their competitors to know.)

Aleks Lazic, owner of Harczak's Sausage Company on Higgins Avenue in Chicago, stands at the smoker on Aug. 8, 2022. The company was purchased by the Lazic family 35 years ago, but all the old recipes stayed the same. (Terrence Antonio James/Chicago Tribune)

I do know several places use sausage from Makowskis Real Sausage Company in the Bridgeport neighborhood. But the number of businesses making excellent Polish sausages is long, including Vienna Beef, Bobak Sausage Co., Harczaks Sausage Company, Slotkowski Sausage Co., Ashland Sausage Co., Crawford Sausage Co. and many more. (Soon, Ill have a post where I taste test them all.)

If Ive learned anything from eating dozens of Polish sausages, its that, like Chicagos best hot dogs, a natural casing is crucial. A skinless Polish sausage lacks the assertive snap, tasting wimpy and frail. Also, the best ones tend to have some beef in the mix. A pork-only Polish sausage doesnt quite stand out on a bun, tasting better when served on a plate.

Here are my favorite places to score a Maxwell Street Polish sausage in Chicago.

Jims Original

Polish sausage and sauerkraut are served up at Jims Original at 1250 S. Union Ave. in Chicago, Aug. 9, 2023. (Antonio Perez/Chicago Tribune)

Its hard to beat the original. A Polish sausage at Jims always has a pleasingly crisp casing that gives way to an incredibly juicy and garlicky interior. Thanks to the piles of onions sauteing on the flat-top, waves of sweet and pungent aromas swirl around your head. A couple of pickled chiles on the side lend both a sharp heat and acidity.

One reason Jims is always so good is you never have to worry about sausages hanging around for too long. No matter the hour, theres always a crowd. I know half of our business is Polish sausage, owner Jim Christopoulos said, estimating that the original location (a second opened last year) serves 500 to 1,000 each day. Over the years weve sold hundreds of thousands, maybe millions of Polish sausages.

1250 S. Union Ave., 312-733-7820; 2775 N. Elston Ave., 872-206-5279; jimsoriginal.com

Lazic Deli

The deep fried and grilled smoked Polish sausage sandwich at Harczak's Sausage Company, on Higgins Avenue in Chicago. It's dressed with cooked onion, mustard and giardiniera. (Terrence Antonio James/Chicago Tribune)

If youre looking to try a Polish sausage straight from the source, visit Lazic Deli in Norwood Park. It shares the same owners and building as Harczaks Sausage Company, which Mike Harczak opened in the late 1950s. Current owner Aleks Lazic continues the fine sausage-making tradition with the Maxwell Street Polish sausage. Each one gets a brief dip in a deep fryer to crisp up the casing, before finishing up on the grill. Its served in a large roll with yellow mustard, sauteed onions, and, Im happy to report, giardiniera.

7035 W. Higgins Ave., 773-631-8400, lazicdeli.com

Fixin Franks at Home Depot

The Maxwell Street Polish sausage retail line from Makowski's Real Sausage Company in Bridgeport. (Eileen T. Meslar/Chicago Tribune)

Inside approximately 17 Home Depot locations, youll find a tiny hot dog stand by the exit called Fixin Franks. Owned by Conley Shirley, the stand immediately attracts attention for serving phenomenal Polish sausages from Makowskis. While you can get one topped with the standard yellow mustard, sauteed onions and pickled chiles, what you really want is the JPG Maxwell Street Polish. This collaboration with the excellent Italian grocery store J.P. Grazianos adds crunchy, spicy giardiniera on top. This turns out to be an excellent addition, one that Id love to see picked up by more places around town.

Multiple locations, instagram.com/fixinfranks

Flub a Dub Chubs

The Durkalski from Flub A Dub Chub's. (Nick Kindelsperger)

If youre eating an all-beef Polish sausage, then you are undoubtedly trying one from Vienna Beef. Extensive testing left me with the conclusion that most places go with the skinless version, which doesnt have the crisp casing I crave. Fortunately, there are still several places that serve the natural casing version. My favorite can be found at Flub A Dub Chubs, the tiny subterranean hot dog stand in Lakeview. The sausage develops black char marks from the grill, lending each beefy bite a smoky edge.

3021 N. Broadway, 773-857-6500, flubadubchub.com

Kimski

Kimski plays with the traditional Polish sausage by incorporating Korean influences. (Nick Kindelsperger)

The vast majority of Polish sausages in Chicago automatically come with yellow mustard, sauteed onions and pickled chiles. The best exception is Marias Standard at Kimski. It may start with a plump Polish sausage, scored slightly on top to crisp up while grilling, but then comes mustard spiked with soju, the clear Korean alcohol. On top is a sprinkle of scallions and a whole heap of bright purple kraut-chi, a Kimski creation fusing sauerkraut and kimchi. Even the bun is different. Instead of the regular squishy offering, Kimki uses an extra plush and buttery brioche bun made by Spoke and Bird. Hopefully, this fantastic creation will inspire more chefs to experiment with the sausage.

954 W. 31st St., 773-823-7336, kimskichicago.net

Kaiser Tiger

Paddy Longs Polka sausage at Kaiser Tiger. (Nick Kindelsperger)

Looking to branch out from the standard sauteed onions and yellow mustard? Check out this beer and sausage stop in the West Loop. Here, the Polish sausages come with spicy horseradish mustard and just enough sauerkraut to add a tang to each bite. The sausage itself has an incredibly crisp casing, before giving way to the juicy interior.

1415 W. Randolph St.; 312-243-3100; kaisertiger.com

Portillos

Workers get pick-up orders ready during lunch time at Portillo's River North restaurant in Chicago on Oct. 20, 2021. (Jose M. Osorio / Chicago Tribune)

Most restaurants were extremely hesitant to let me know where they sourced their Polish sausages. But not Portillos. The chains website proudly declares that it uses Makowskis for its chargrilled Maxwell Street Polish sausage. The shop may use a poppy-seed bun for its version, but otherwise sticks to the traditional Maxwell Street toppings of yellow mustard, sauteed onions and, if youd like, a few sport peppers.

Multiple locations; portillos.com

All of restaurants with Maxwell Street in their name

Polish sausage from J.J. Sausage Maxwell Street. (Nick Kindelsperger)

In Chicago, adding Maxwell Street to your restaurants name signals certain things. First, itll specialize in Polish sausages, with hot dogs, burgers and pork chop sandwiches in a secondary role. Second, everything will be topped with sweet sauteed onions, mustard and pickled chiles. Third, you can forget about a dining room, though there may be a metal counter to stand next to.

One week I decided to eat at as many of them as I could, crisscrossing the city, from the West Side all the way down to suburban Dolton. And you know what? All of them were pretty great. While the fries ranged wildly in quality, the Polish sausages served at all of these restaurants were uniformly excellent. Essentially, if you see Maxwell Street in the name, youre probably in luck.

Maxwell Street Depot, 411 W. 31st St., 312-326-3514

The Original Maxwell Street, 3801 W. Harrison St., 773-940-2270, theoriginalmaxwellstreet.com

Chicagos Original Maxwell Street, 5304 S. Western Ave., 605-313-0713

Maxwell Street Express, 7901 S. Wentworth Ave., 773-952-7655

Maxwell Street Polish 79th Street Grill, 7901 S. Chicago Ave., 773-768-3976

Maxwell Street Polish, 7445 S. State St.

J.J. Sausage Maxwell Street, 1320 Sibley Blvd., Dolton; 708-896-6520

nkindelsperger@chicagotribune.com
New York City Mayor Eric Adams (D) took aim at New York Gov. Kathy Hochul (D) over her handling of the migrant crisis in the state.

Adams criticized Hochuls position that New York City should cap the number of migrants it sends to other parts of the state. Over the last few months, the mayor has demanded more assistance from Hochul and the federal government.

New York City has transported migrants to different parts of New York as it has grappled with how to deal with the influx of migrants arriving in the city. The city is committed to providing shelter to anyone who needs it, but Hochul said in a speech last week that the commitment does not apply to the rest of the state.

I think the governors wrong, Adams said at an event at the New York Law School and the Center for New York City Law. Shes the governor of the state of New York. New York City is in that state. Every county in this state should be part of this.

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We have .05 of the landmass in this state and we have 90, almost 99 percent of the migrant asylum seekers, he added.

When reached for comment about Adamss comments, a spokesperson for Hochul referred The Hill to the speech she gave last week.

In 1981, the City of New York and a Coalition for the Homeless signed an agreement that the city would provide shelter to anyone who seeks it, Hochul said during her speech. This is an agreement that does not apply to the states other 57 counties, which is one of the reasons we cannot and will not force other parts of our state to shelter migrants, nor are we going to be asking these migrants to move to other parts of the state against their will. That said, I do believe we have a moral imperative to help these new arrivals.

The Mayor and I said then and in countless meetings with Congress, the White House Cabinet members, at rallies with labor, press conferences, and working with business, she said later on. What weve said all along is just let them work and help us out financially.

Hochuls spokesperson Avi Small told The Hill that it was unfortunate that Adams is blaming the state government over the crisis.

Its unfortunate that the Mayor is choosing to point fingers at the state  which continues to provide the City with unprecedented amounts of financial support  rather than working collaboratively to manage this crisis, Small said in a statement.

Governor Hochul knows that New Yorkers want their leaders to focus on solutions, which is why she is working more individuals on the path to work authorization so they can move out of shelter and into permanent housing, he added.

The city has already received $140 million in federal funds to assist migrants, the largest amount for any city not on the U.S.-Mexico border.

Hochul estimated that about 100,000 asylum seekers have arrived in the state over the last year. The White House told Hochul that it cannot send more federal assistance to the state, blaming congressional hurdles for the inability to send aid.

Without Congressional action, this Administration has been working to build a safe, orderly, and humane immigration system and has worked to identify ways to improve efficiencies and maximize the resources the federal government can provide to communities across the country to support the flow of migrants, a White House spokesperson said in a statement.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Air pollution shortens the average life expectancy of Delhis residents by approximately 11.9 years, finds a new study that sheds light on the dire consequences of breathing in the city-state that has often ranked as the worlds worst polluted.

The Air Quality Life Index (AQLI) report for 2023, released on Tuesday, said all of Indias 1.3 billion people live in areas where the annual average particulate pollution level exceeds the 5g/m3 limit set by the World Health Organisation (WHO).

Based on particulate matter data from 2021, the report focused on measuring the influence of particulate pollution on life expectancy.

The findings of the report revealed that the annual average PM2.5 level in 2021 in Delhi stood at 126.5g/m, surpassing the 5g/m WHO limit more than 25 times.

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Comparatively, in 2020, the recorded PM2.5 level was slightly lower at 107g/m. This level of pollution has dire consequences on the health of the national capitals 18 million residents, taking away approximately 11.9 years from their lives.

PM2.5, or the smallest particulate matter, is one of the most dangerous pollutants and is responsible for a number of diseases. The report stated that the threats posed by PM2.5 on human health in India overshadow risks of cardiovascular diseases and child and maternal malnutrition, becoming the biggest health threat.

It stated that while particulate pollution takes away 5.3 years of life from the average Indian, cardiovascular diseases reduce life expectancy by around 4.5 years, while child and maternal malnutrition shaves off 1.8 years.

The report noted that India grapples with the heaviest health burden globally due to the vast number of individuals affected by elevated particulate matter levels, something several reports on air quality have emphasised on in the past.

Among south Asian nations, India grapples with a 9.5 per cent rise in PM2.5 levels from 2013-21, while neighbours Pakistan and Bangladesh witnessed 8.8 per cent and 12.4 per cent increases over the same period.

In terms of regional impact, the northern plains  encompassing states Bihar, Delhi, Haryana, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal  have emerged as the countrys most polluted region.

Residents in this region could face a reduction of approximately eight years in life expectancy if current pollution levels persist.

It also found that 67.4 per cent of the countrys population lives in areas that exceed the countrys own national air quality standard of 40g/m3.

The report delves into potential positive outcomes if PM2.5 levels were reduced. For instance, if Delhi's PM2.5 level were lowered to meet WHO limits as an annual average, residents could potentially gain 11.9 years in life expectancy.

Even a reduction to the national standard of 40g/m, well below the WHO limits, could result in a gain of 8.5 years in life expectancy for Delhi residents.

The broader implications for India are equally significant. A reduction of PM2.5 levels to meet the WHO guideline could increase life expectancy by 5.3 years, while adhering to the national standard of 40 g/m could lead to a gain of 1.8 years.

The authors of the study said the Indian government's efforts to combat air pollution through initiatives like the National Clean Air Programme, which aims for a 40 per cent reduction in particulate pollution by 2026 in 131 non-attainment cities, could also lead to substantial improvements.

Achieving this reduction could translate to an increase in the national average life expectancy by 7.9 months and a notable gain of 4.4 years for residents of Delhi.
A Turkish-Dutch airline is looking to remove the disruption of childrens noises by offering an only adult zone for flights and people traveling without kids between Amsterdam and Curacao.

Turkish-Dutch Corendon Airlines said it is introducing only adult zones for flights between Amsterdam and Curacao starting Nov. 3.

This zone on the plane is intended for travelers traveling without children and for business travelers who want to work in a quiet environment, a translated version of the airlines press release said.

The airline argued these zones will also positively impact parents, who can worry less about possible reactions from fellow passengers when their child is a bit busier or crying.

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The only adult zones will be in the front section of the plane with nine extra-large seats with additional legroom and 93 standard seats, the airline said. The zone will be physically separated from the rest of the plane, using walls and curtains that create a shielded environment that contributes to a quiet and relaxed flight.

Seats for a one-way ticket in the adult only zone will cost an additional 45 euros, or just under $49, while the extra-large seats will cost an extra 100 euros, or about $108. The airline said travelers 16 years and older will be able to purchase the seats.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
A novel way to generate energy is being trialed at Dallas Love Field airport as it seeks to improve its sustainability.

In collaboration with JetWind Power, the initiative centers on the gusts that are created from airplanes taking off being converted into electricity.

DAL is taking #sustainability to new heights through an innovative partnership with JetWind Power Corporation to capture wind blasts from aircraft & convert them into environmentally friendly electricity. Read more about the revolutionary technology here: https://t.co/lGjwSFJgNk pic.twitter.com/KECHhS2iEz  Dallas Love Field (@DallasLoveField) July 25, 2023

Introduced in 2017 at the Airports Going Green Conference in Dallas, JetWind Powers technology harnesses the power of human-made wind via turbines. In other settings, the energy-capturing pod can also be used to make use of the wind created by trains and vehicles.

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In a statement, founder of JetWind Power Corporation Dr. T. O. Souryal said: This sustainable technology will transform the transportation and energy industries, not just aviation, and its been a pleasure working with Dallas Love Fields forward-thinking team throughout this process.

At Dallas, the turbines are placed next to the control tower, allowing operators to determine how much energy can be captured and if the turbines are durable enough to withstand the force of the wind.

According to Axios, Dallas Love Field said the electricity that the pods produce will be used to charge electric vehicles at the Federal Aviation Administrations air traffic control tower.

When speaking at the Airports Going Green Conference in 2017, Souryal said that one Gen5 turbine, if it were located at Los Angeles International Airport, has the potential to produce 300 megawatt hours per year, and the financial savings achieved in terms of reduced electricity costs would see the unit pay for itself after 12 months.

According to the International Energy Agency, aviation was responsible for 2% of global energy-related carbon emissions in 2022. The organization has called for the development of low-emission fuels to minimize this figure.

Finding ways to offset the carbon emitted from aircraft is a way to improve sustainability and prevent global heating, and capturing wind energy from planes and using it to create energy is an innovative concept to reduce an airports carbon footprint.

In 2021, the United States government set a goal for the aviation industry to achieve net-zero operations by 2050. The technology from JetWind Power will certainly aid that ambition, but Dallas Love Field is so far the only airport in the world to be utilizing the invention.

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Alabama wants to execute a man so badly that they're likely to become the first state in the nation to kill someone by nitrogen hypoxia.

Kenneth Eugene Smith, 58, who was sentenced to death for a 1988 murder-for-hire killing, has already survived one execution attempt from the state. Last November, he won a court case allowing him to demand to be executed specifically by nitrogen hypoxia, a method that has been approved in Alabama since 2018 but has remained untested.

Nonetheless, Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall still asked the state Supreme Court to set an execution date for Smith last week, with plans to use the method.

While four states in addition to Alabama have approved execution by lethal gas, no one has been executed using this method since 1999. While 20th-century gas chambers typically killed inmates using cyanide gas, death by nitrogen hypoxia is a completely untested method. Under the proposed process, an inmate would be placed in a gas chamber, where they would be forced to breathe pure nitrogen, ultimately causing death by suffocation due to the lack of oxygen.

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After long arguing that they should be allowed to kill Smith by lethal injection because the state had not yet developed a nitrogen hypoxia protocol, state officials unveiled a formal nitrogen hypoxia process in conjunction with their motion to set Smith's execution date. Under the process, the inmate will wear a mask, which will force them to breathe pure nitrogen gas "for 15 minutes, or five minutes following a flatline indication on the EKG, whichever is longer," resulting in death by suffocation.

Smith won the right to be executed by this method in a ruling from the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 11th Circuit last November. Smith argued that a lethal injection attempt would expose him to "an intolerable risk of torture, cruelty, or substantial pain," citing the state's previous botched executions.

The same day as the 11th Circuit's ruling, the U.S. Supreme Court lifted a stay of execution for Smith. Alabama officials attempted to kill him by lethal injection that day, but they abandoned their attempt after they tried unsuccessfully for several hours to place IV needles in Smith's arms.

While nitrogen hypoxia has been touted as a more humane method for killing death-row inmatesit's simply unknown how much suffering death by nitrogen hypoxia causes.

"It's not humane," Joel Zivot, an associate professor of anesthesiology and surgery at Emory University, told the Montgomery Advertiser last year. "It's not going to be euphoric. You know, it may be bloodless, but it won't be simple."

The post Alabama Set To Try New, Untested Execution Method appeared first on Reason.com.
The state of Alabama is seeking to use an untested method to execute a man on death row whose execution was already botched once before.

Prosecutors want to push forward with executing 58-year-old Kenneth Eugene Smith using nitrogen hypoxia, which would involve him inhaling nitrogen without the presence of oxygen, effectively causing suffocation.

During a scheduled execution last November, Smith survived four hours tightly strapped to the execution gurney. Executioners prodded him repeatedly near his collarbone and arms, failing to find a vein to inject him with a combination of chemicals that was supposed to kill him.

Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall is looking to set a new date for Smiths execution.

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It is a travesty that Kenneth Smith has been able to avoid his death sentence for nearly 35 years after being convicted of the heinous murder-for-hire slaying of an innocent woman, Elizabeth Sennett, Marshall said in a statement on Friday.

Smith was convicted in the 1980s for killing Sennett, whose pastor husband, Charles Sennett, had hired Smith and another person, John Forrest Parker, to kill her so he could cash out on the insurance policy, according to the Montgomery Advertiser.

In 2022, Smiths attorneys sought to stay his execution, while the state kept moving to push it forward.

The day Smith was scheduled to be executed in November 2022, executioners struggled to access a vein for the lethal injection. The execution team was able to establish one of two necessary intravenous lines into one of Smiths veins, but couldnt successfully establish a second one before his death warrant expired at midnight, The Associated Press reported. Alabama Department of Corrections Commissioner John Q. Hamm said executioners tried several locations on Smith, AL.com reported at the time.

At some point before midnight, Defendants [ADOC] stopped their attempted execution of Mr. Smith, but not before inflicting grave physical pain and emotional trauma, the likes of which the human brain is not able to process, Smiths attorneys alleged in a motion against ADOC.

Smith was left on the gurney for hours, unaware that his execution had been stayed.

Alabama has botched multiple executions involving the highly controversial lethal injection process in recent years, failing to access veins  including that of Alan Eugene Miller, once known to be the only living execution survivor. (Smiths attorneys said that Smith has now joined Miller as one of the only two execution survivors in the U.S.)

Alabama has a dismal record of getting it right when it comes to executions  the state botched three lethal injection executions in 2022. It is the very last state that should now experiment using an unprecedented, untested procedure with unknown consequences, Robin Maher, the executive director of the Death Penalty Information Center, told HuffPost.

Smith had originally requested death by nitrogen hypoxia. He is not the first inmate to request an alternate execution method. Two inmates in Oklahoma last year requested death by firing squad in an attempt to avoid the possibility of prolonged pain during the lethal injection process. (While the lethal injection process has been marketed as a humane way to kill, the experience has been compared to the sensation of being exposed to a chemical fire.)

A heavily redacted 41-page document detailing the protocol for nitrogen hypoxia, a never-before-used procedure, says that a mask will be placed on the individuals face. After the nitrogen gas is introduced, it will be administered for 15 minutes or five minutes following a flatline indication on the EKG, whichever is longer, the document reads. The procedure causes people to suffocate to death due to a lack of oxygen, and its permitted in Alabama, Oklahoma and Mississippi.

No state has ever attempted to execute a prisoner by nitrogen suffocation before, so in a very real sense the procedure is experimental, Robert Dunham, director of the Death Penalty Policy Project and an adjunct professor at the Temple University Beasley School of Law, told HuffPost.

No one knows for certain whether it is going to work the way its proponents say it will, and the execution protocol is so full of redactions that no one can tell you exactly what Alabama plans to do. And there is no ethical way to test it because you cant test-kill prison employees to see if there are problems in the process, he continued.

The Alabama Department of Corrections did not immediately respond to HuffPosts request for comment. Smiths attorneys declined to comment.

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The blood flows like wine in The Equalizer 3, as dark as Chianti, seeping into cobblestone streets, splattering onto stained glass and statuary. Yes, star Denzel Washington and director Antoine Fuqua have used the third installment of this trilogy as the opportunity for an Italian vacay, with vigilante hero Robert McCall (Washington) leaving Boston behind to follow a spate of movie sequels, TV productions and Instagram influencers to the old country for a taste of la dolce vita. But Robert has to take care of business before he can truly enjoy retirement on the Amalfi Coast, which means ridding this charming village of pesky mafiosi.

Its clear Fuqua has been watching his Italian mafia movies, and he revels in the visual drama offered by the setting and subgenre. His compositions are stuffed with religious iconography, baroque embellishments, claustrophobic medieval alleys and lots and lots of pasta. But he and cinematographer Robert Richardson put their own stamp on the imagery, draining and desaturating the color palette of the picturesque seaside town of Positano.

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Speaking of Positano, the iconic town poses here as a village called Altomonte, which is a real place situated between Sicily and Naples, though it is much further inland. Its unclear why Fuqua renamed such a recognizable slice of the Italian coast for another town, but its sort of par for the course when it comes to the plot of The Equalizer 3, which is the most ephemeral yet in the series.

We dont come to The Equalizer movies (based on the 1980s TV series) for plot, and this third installment privileges performance and visceral, dramatic imagery over everything else. We start in media res: Robert has already laid waste to a group of anonymous men at a Sicilian winery, butcher knives buried in brains. He will soon punch a pistol into another guys head and get shot himself in the process while fleeing.

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Giorgio Antonini, left, and Andrea Scarduzio in "The Equalizer 3." (Stefano Montesi/Sony/TNS)

The bullet in Roberts back will be extracted by a kindly doctor in Altomonte, and while recovering in the village, he will fall in love with the warm hospitality of the people, and the peaceful way of life. He just has to dispatch the bloodthirsty Camorra gang, who seek to intimidate the residents out of their homes so that they can develop resorts and casinos.

The appeal of this film is just watching Washington do what he does best, and hes having a hell of a lot of fun here, quietly threatening bad guys, flashing toothy grins, pontificating about good and evil and the necessity to do evil in order to be good, putting the hurt on swaggering psychos. Its also the reunion of Washington with his Man on Fire co-star Dakota Fanning, some 20 years later. Fanning plays a CIA agent, Collins, whom he tips off about jihad drugs being trafficked through the winery. She shows up in town to chase down the terrorists, but shes really there to banter coolly with Robert. Fannings storyline could be excised from the film completely without losing anything except the extra-filmic significance of seeing these actors together again.

In The Equalizer 3, Fuqua goes for operatic style and pulp poetics, strung together with a strangely paced and structured plot thats about as floppy as a spaghetti noodle (the script is once again by Richard Wenk). But the film is not unenjoyable on a purely impressionistic level, as Fuqua and Washington bring the audience along on their Euro trip and ask us simply to sit back, relax and enjoy the ride that is Robert McCall inflicting terror and mayhem on very bad people. Sometimes thats as good as it gets.

The Equalizer 3  2.5 stars (out of 4)

MPA rating: R (for strong bloody violence and some language)

Running time: 1:49

How to watch: In theaters Sept. 1
Off World First

Harvard's premier ET hunter says he's recovered the first known sample of an object from outside our solar system, y'all.

In a statement on his blog, Harvard astronomer Avi Loeb said that he and his group, the Galileo Project, have completed their analysis of dozens of tiny "spherule" fragments from IM1, a meteorite that crashed into the Pacific Ocean in 2014 and is believed to have originated from beyond our home star system.

Known for his provocative claim that 'Oumuamua, another interstellar object that flew past Earth in 2017, could be an alien craft, Loeb has made a name for himself by pairing outlandish-sounding claims about extraterrestrial tech with some serious scientific acumen, the latter of which led to the "interstellar expedition" to study what he believes may also have been a craft from an intelligent civilization outside our solar system.

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The Galileo Project's journey to the waters outside of Papua New Guinea earlier this summer ultimately gathered more than 700 spherules, 57 of which it earmarked for more extensive analysis.

That study, Loeb writes, showed that five of the tiny marbles "originated as molten droplets from the surface of IM1 when it was exposed to the immense heat from the fireball generated by its friction on air" back in early 2014, when the object was first detected as it crashed to Earth.

What's more, those five pieces "showed a composition pattern of elements from outside the solar system" that were "never seen before," he says  a finding which, if it's corroborated by independent experts, could have significant historical implications.

Hook, Line, Sinker

Loeb and his team were able to acquire the spherules from IM1 using an instrument invented by the Galileo Project that they call the "interstellar hook," a sled-like contraption fitted with fine-tuned magnets that they dragged across the ocean floor to capture the tiny bits of meteor.

The device sifted out everything else from the bottom of the ocean and, using its powerful magnets, collected only those with high quantities of iron and other compounds believed to be part of meteors that originated outside of our solar system.

In April 2022, the US Space Command declassified a memo corroborating  after years of speculation on Loeb's part  the claim that IM1 did indeed originate from interstellar space based on the velocity at which it blazed through the sky in January 2014 before crash landing into the Pacific Ocean.

No word yet, though, on whether the spherules show signs of alien design.

"The fundamental question is whether any interstellar meteor might indicate a composition that is unambiguously artificial in origin?" he wrote earlier this year. "Better still, perhaps some technological components would survive the impact. My dream is to press some buttons on a functional piece of equipment that was manufactured outside of Earth."

More on meteors: Expert Says Rock That Hit Woman Was NOT a Meteorite
A magnetic resonance image of the patients brain by fluid-attenuated inversion recovery showing an enhancing right frontal lobe lesion (left). A live third-stage larval form of Ophidascaris robertsi removed from the patients right frontal lobe (right).

A neurosurgeon in Australia pulled a live, three inch-long worm from the brain of a 64-year-old woman in June 2022. The roundworm Ophidascaris robertsi is native to Australia and its larvae were also present in other organs in the patients body, including the liver and lungs. This is the first known human case of this parasitic infection and it is described in a case study published in the September 2023 issue of the journal Emerging Infectious Diseases.

[Related: Rare parasites found in 200 million-year-old reptile poop.]

The patient was first admitted to her local hospital in late January 2021 after experiencing three weeks of diarrhea and abdominal pain, followed by dry cough, night sweats, and fever. By June 2022, she was also experiencing forgetfulness and depression, and was referred to Canberra Hospital. While there, she underwent brain surgery when an MRI revealed some abnormalities.

Neurosurgeon Hari Priya Bandi was performing a biopsy when she used forceps to pull the parasite out of the womans brain. She immediately contacted Canberra Hospital infectious diseases physician Sanjaya Senanayake, saying Oh my god, you wouldnt believe what I just found in this ladys brainand its alive and wriggling, Bandi said, according to The Guardian.

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According to the case study, this is the first known human Ophidascaris infection and the first to involve the brain of a mammalian species. These worms are common to carpet pythons and they typically live in a pythons stomach and esophagus. Humans infected with Ophidascaris robertsi larvae would be considered accidental parasite hosts.

Normally the larvae from the roundworm are found in small mammals and marsupials, which are eaten by the python, allowing the life cycle to complete itself in the snake, Senanayake, who is also one of the co-authors of the case study, said in a statement.

The researchers believe that the woman from southeastern New South Wales likely caught the roundworm after collecting Warrigal greens next to a nearby lake where a python had shed the parasite via its feces. The patient used the Warrigal greens for cooking and was probably infected with the parasite directly from touching the native grass or after consuming the greens.

A live third-stage larval form of Ophidascaris robertsi that is about 3 inches long and only one millimeter in diameter. The worm is seen under a stereomicroscope. CREDIT: Hossain M/Kennedy KJ/Wilson HL.

According to the team, this world-first case highlights the danger of zoonotic transmission, or diseases and infections that pass from animals to humans. This risk is growing as humans and animals start to live more closely together and habitats continue to overlap.

There have been about 30 new infections in the world in the last 30 years. Of the emerging infections globally, about 75 percent are zoonotic, meaning there has been transmission from the animal world to the human world. This includes coronaviruses, Senanayake said. This Ophidascaris infection does not transmit between people, so it wont cause a pandemic like SARS, COVID-19, or Ebola. However, the snake and parasite are found in other parts of the world, so it is likely that other cases will be recognised in coming years in other countries.

[Related: Mind-controlling zombie parasites are real.]

The patient was sent home following the surgery with antiparasitic drugs and has not returned to hospital since, but they are monitoring her since this is such a new infection.

Despite this case being extremely rare and spine-tingling, parasitic infection is actually extremely common. One of the most widespread types is pinworm (Enterobius vermicularis or threadworm), and some estimates say it is present in over one billion people around the world. They are specific to humans and can cause intense itching and are passed from person-to-person.

Two types of hookwormNecator americanis and Ancylostoma duadonaleare found in soil. Ancylostoma duodenale only lives in Australia typically in more remote communities. These worms typically enter the bloodstream through the feet.

According to Vincent Ho, an associate professor and clinical academic gastroenterologist at Western Sydney University, the best ways to avoid a parasitic infection include avoiding undercooked or raw pork, avoiding swimming or jumping into warm fresh bodies of water, practicing good hand washing, and wearing shoes in rural areas.
Local authorities in Kharkiv Oblast have reported that 1,433 people have been evacuated from the Kupiansk district since the start of the mandatory evacuation on 9 August.

Source: Roman Semenukha, Deputy Head of the Kharkiv Oblast Military Administration, on air during the 24/7 national joint newscast

Quote: "The Oblast Military Administration is carrying out evacuations, especially intensifying evacuations from the left bank, from Kupiansk-Vuzlovyi. Yesterday, in particular, 24 people were evacuated, including 5 children.

In total, we have evacuated about 1,433 people since 9 August, when the mandatory evacuation began. Unfortunately, not everyone is ready to leave, despite the intensity of the attacks."

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Details: Semenukha said that the Kupiansk district remains in the combat zone, with Russian attacks taking place almost daily.

Background:

On 10 August, a mandatory evacuation was announced in the Kupiansk district of Kharkiv Oblast due to intensified Russian attacks. In particular, residents of 37 settlements close to the combat zone were asked to leave for Kharkiv, and then, if they were willing to, to other regions of Ukraine.

As of the morning of 18 August, approximately 480 people had been evacuated from Kupiansk district, and the authorities are developing evacuation routes in case of a threat of occupation of Kupiansk.

On 29 August, the authorities announced the forced evacuation of children from five settlements in Zaporizhzhia Oblast due to the difficult security situation.

Ukrainska Pravda is the place where you will find the most up-to-date information about everything related to the war in Ukraine. Follow us on Twitter, support us, or become our patron!






AMBRIDGE  Local police arrested a borough man Monday morning they believe was prepared to commit hate crimes at a local church.

Court records indicate police arrested 38-year-old Jeffrey Harris, of Ambridge, after they received multiple reports of the man threatening people with a shotgun and attempting to enter a church with the firearm on Sunday. During an investigation after his arrest, police said Harris was prepared for a standoff with officers at his home.

According to police reports, officers became aware Harris was armed and dangerous after witnesses said he pointed a firearm at two women walking at an intersection along Duss Avenue and Fourth Street around 9 a.m. Sunday. Harris was reportedly wearing a camouflage vest and was later found to be carrying a 12-gauge shotgun, 25 rounds of ammunition and drugs later identified as crystal meth.

Witnesses then spotted Harris trying to enter Greater Dominion Church, a predominately African-American church on the corner of Melrose Avenue and Fourth Street, with the shotgun. In the criminal complaint, police said this raised concerns Harris was "attempting to enter the church with a long gun to commit a hate crime."

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As police continued to search for Harris, they reported the man pointed his gun at an officer from the Beaver Valley Regional Police Department, which prompted the officer to call for backup. Harris was arrested shortly after in a business entryway and police said he began to make "bizarre comments" about a dead brother.

When investigating the suspect's house on Duss Avenue, police reported Harris had been living with his boyfriend, but the man was not found at the home after Harris' arrest. Neighbors told police the boyfriend had not been seen around the home in several days.

Entry into the home was reportedly difficult for investigators due to a slippery substance across the porch, which may have been personal lubricant emptied from a nearby bottle. Investigators also found a hole was drilled into a weapons case inside the home, which would have allowed Harris a tactical position to "fire at the door from a protected position." A "handwritten script" for an active shooting was also found at the house.

Police also contacted the Allegheny County bomb squad during their investigation to remove a suspected explosive device from the house. Crystal meth and additional ammunition were also reportedly found throughout the house.

Harris faces several charges, including aggravated assault, simple assault, making terroristic threats, attempted burglary and various drug-related charges. He is being held in the Beaver County Jail on a $975,000 bond, according to online court records.

This article originally appeared on Beaver County Times: Ambridge man arrested for terroristic threats, suspected of planning hate crime
A person visits memorials for Jerrald Gallion, Angela Carr and Anolt Joseph Laguerre Jr. near where they were shot and killed Saturday in Jacksonville, Fla. The shooter specifically targeted the Black victims because of their race. (Sean Rayford / Getty Images)

On Saturday, a terrorist inspired by white supremacy opened fire at a Dollar General store in Jacksonville, Fla., killing three Black people. The 21-year-old gunman, who had initially intended to attack a nearby historically Black university, had written several manifestos detailing his racist ideology, and one of his two legally purchased firearms was marked with swastikas.

Acts of terrorism against minority communities are frequently directed at soft targets defined by their openness, like supermarkets. The perpetrator of an August 2019 attack at a Walmart in El Paso wrote in his manifesto that it is not cowardly to pick low-hanging fruit. AKA Dont attack heavily guarded areas to fulfill your super soldier COD fantasy. Attack low-security targets.

Such violence is intended to upend a sense of safety and belonging within those communities. A supermarket shooter in Buffalo in 2022 wrote in his manifesto that he desired To show to the replacers that as long as the White man lives, our land will never be theirs and they will never be safe from us.

Perpetrators of blood and soil violence seek to show immigrant and minority communities that they are not welcome. It is thus crucial that government leaders publicly and unambiguously reject such narratives. Americans have failed on this front, but there are successful examples abroad.

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Read more: Jacksonville shootings refocus attention on city's racist past and the struggle to move on

After an anti-immigrant attack in Germany in February 2020, then-Chancellor Angela Merkel used unusually direct language in declaring, Racism is a poison. Hatred is a poison.

Immediately following Islamophobic attacks in Christchurch, New Zealand, then-Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said publicly of the attacker: You may have chosen us  but we utterly reject and condemn you. Her counterpart, conservative leader of the opposition Simon Bridges, also opted for inclusive language: ...every New Zealander feels this wasn't just something targeted at our Islamic community  it has happened to all New Zealanders, and all New Zealanders are grieving with them.

United fronts in the face of far-right violence have the potential to deter would-be copycats. But in the U.S., prominent Republicans have fed into the rhetoric. Last October in Mesa, Ariz., Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene told a crowd: Joe Bidens 5 million illegal aliens are on the verge of replacing you, replacing your jobs and replacing your kids in school and, coming from all over the world, theyre also replacing your culture. And thats not great for America.

In his only public statement on the Buffalo shooting, former President Trump used the opportunity to boast about his foreign policy record. I think they had a tragic event in Buffalo, he said, just as Im coming on the stage, tragic event in Buffalo with numerous people being killed. In 18 months in Afghanistan, we lost nobody.

Read more: Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis booed at vigil as hundreds mourn more racist killings

While Trump has not made a statement condemning the terrorist attack in Jacksonville, President Biden has declared, we must say clearly and forcefully that white supremacy has no place in America.

Far-right terrorists rationale in choosing targets can be understood like that of jihadi terrorists, who distinguish between near enemies (Middle Eastern dictators) and far enemies (the U.S. and Israel).

For the far right in the U.S., one near enemy is the government, which extremists see as responsible for the great replacement of white Anglo Christians with ethnic, racial and religious minorities. Contrarily, far enemies are minority groups labeled as the demographic replacers.

Some far-right terrorists choose the government as their target believing only maximum aggression can accelerate change. But the Jacksonville attacker, like those who targeted supermarkets in El Paso and Buffalo, calculated that a far-enemy attack not frontally targeting the government would be less likely to cause an aggressive crackdown. One year after the Buffalo attack and four years after the El Paso massacre, the extremist movement has faced no consequences for the actions of these followers.

The failure to appropriately respond to the carnage in Buffalo may have contributed to new violence elsewhere. A shooter targeting a gay bar in Slovakia's capital, Bratislava, last October directly cited the Buffalo shooters targeting choice as inspiring his own decision. And Nazi symbols on one of the Jacksonville gunmans firearms suggest he too may have followed the Buffalo model, where much attention was paid to the aesthetics of the shooters weapon.

In todays highly partisan and polarized political climate in the U.S., the bold steps needed to curb acts of far-right domestic terrorism  including meaningful gun reform, aggressive steps to combat radicalization online, and the enactment of a domestic terrorism statute  remain almost unimaginable.

But we should be able to get the rhetoric right: After attacks on minority communities, U.S. leaders from across the political spectrum should condemn the violence and the conspiracy theories behind it. Failure to do so is costing lives.

Colin P. Clarke is the director of research at the Soufan Group, an intelligence and security consulting firm in New York City. Jacob Ware is a research fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations where he studies domestic and international terrorism and counter-terrorism.

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.
5 job switchers explain why they regretted moving for a new role  or refused to relocate at all

Americans are moving for new jobs at the lowest rate in decades, per a recent Challenger survey.

Experts say high housing costs, an aging population, and remote work are among the reasons why.

We asked five Americans why they turned down an out-of-state job offer  or accepted one and later regretted it.

Americans are still switching jobs in high numbers  but they're packing up and moving for their new gigs at the lowest rate in decades.

That's according to a quarterly survey of more than 3,000 US adults who recently took a new job. In the first quarter of 2023, 1.6% of job seekers relocated for their new job, the lowest level of any quarter on record dating back to 1986, according to data from the outplacement firm Challenger, Gray, and Christmas.

The figure is the culmination of a decades-long decline in the share of US workers moving for a new job. From 1986 to 1997, an average of roughly 29% of job seekers relocated for a new role. This fell to 18% from 1998 to 2007, 11% from 2008 to 2017, and 7% from 2018 to 2020. The relocation rate sank all the way to 4.6% in the first quarter of 2022.

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Experts told Insider that several factors have driven the decline, including high housing costs, the concentration of jobs in a handful of metro areas, and the growth of remote work  which has allowed some workers to change jobs without moving.

"In the 1980's and 90's, nearly a third of job seekers would move for new positions," Andrew Challenger, a senior vice president at the survey firm, said in a release. "That has fallen steadily since, as housing costs have risen and companies have moved to where talent pools are located. Now, remote and hybrid positions are keeping workers at home."

Aaron Terrazas, chief economist for Glassdoor, told Insider that certain demographics and societal trends  like the aging US population and the rise of dual-income households  can help explain the decline as well.

"Older people move less than younger people, and couples where both spouses work move less than couples where only one spouse works," he said.

Declining marriage and birth rates have also made moves to larger homes less necessary for some Americans. High childcare costs  and the need to care for aging relatives  could be keeping some people in place as well.

Insider spoke with five Americans who either passed up on a job because they didn't want to move  or moved for a job and ultimately regretted it  to learn more about what's keeping Americans from relocating when they join the Great Resignation.

High moving expenses can take the excitement out of a move

Virginia native Shriya Boppana, 24, told Insider that she moved to Austin, Texas for her first job out of college last year.

But the move proved to be expensive. She said she had to pay $1,000 to transport her car, only to see it damaged during the trip  forcing her to get a new one. Her monthly rent of $1,600 before utilities wasn't especially welcoming either.

Shriya Boppana Shriya Boppana

"I took the job because they paid the most, but when I moved to Texas, it was the biggest financial drain on my bank account," she said. "I barely even enjoyed the perks of a fat paycheck."

Boppana said her company initially required her to move for the job, but after two months, she was allowed to move back home to Virginia and work remotely. After paying rent for another six months, she said she flew back to Austin to break her lease, pick up her car, and drive 22 hours back to Virginia.

Moving can sometimes mean giving up lifestyle preferences, like being car-free

Julianne Elise, 25, told Insider she was laid off from her New York City public relations manager job in June. Two weeks ago, she said she received a job offer for a role that paid slightly more than her old gig  but the company said she'd have to move to Los Angeles by the end of the year.

Julianne Elise Julianne Elise

While she said she'd be open to moving for a new job, she ultimately decided to decline.

"I did a lot of research on the cost of living in Los Angeles and realized that I would need a car, which is an added expense," she said. "The rent in LA was slightly lower than I'm paying in New York, but not enough to justify buying a car and the moving expenses I would incur."

High housing costs can make a good job offer less attractive

Angela Harris, 43, told Insider that she moved from Philadelphia to Redmond, Washington in 2019 for a new job. She said she'd lived on the East Coast her entire life and was looking for something new.

While she was fortunate that her new employer covered most of her relocation expenses  including a temporary stay in corporate housing  she said she found herself losing money elsewhere.

Angela Harris

In Philadelphia, she said she had a $1,200 monthly mortgage payment for a 3-bedroom home. But in Redmond, she was forced to rent a 2-bedroom home for $2,400 per month. She also said her car registration was $500 the first year, up drastically from the $40 annual payment she'd become accustomed to in Pennsylvania.

"My living expenses doubled, and, in some instances, I felt like I had to downgrade my quality of living for the move," she said.

She moved back to the East Coast this past January.

Moving can mean saying goodbye to friends and family

Nathan Russo, 38, said he declined a job offer nine years ago that would have required him to move from Florida to Chicago. He told Insider that the cost of housing in Chicago  and the social connections he'd built in Florida  ultimately prevented him from making the move.

"Ultimately, I realized that moving for this job would mean leaving all of my friends and family behind, and that support system is incredibly important to me," he said. "I also had a pretty great rent situation going, and looking at Chicago apartments online, I knew I was going to have to spend a few hundred dollars more per month on an apartment that would probably be smaller than the one I currently had."

Starting a new job in a different city can feel destabilizing

Michael Johnson, 30, is a cat nutritionist based in California. In 2018, he told Insider he received an enticing job offer at a veterinary clinic on the East Coast  one that provided a higher salary and the potential for career growth.

Michael Johnson Michael Johnson

But ultimately, Johnson decided to decline. He said he was hesitant to leave the network of friends and colleagues he'd built, was concerned he wouldn't be able to find affordable housing, and thought the shift could pose some career challenges.

"I had built a solid client base and established connections within the local veterinary community," he said, adding, "Ultimately, I made the difficult choice to prioritize the stability of my existing career, financial situation, and personal well-being over the potential financial gains that the new job offered."

This story was originally published in July 2023.

Read the original article on Business Insider
Anne Hathaways on-screen portrayal of a fashion challenged assistant to an Anna Wintour-inspired magazine editor in The Devil Wears Prada led her to become the style muse for several major fashion houses, including Versace.

Now, the 40-year-old Hollywood star has begun experimenting with new fashion trends, crafting mod looks, and stunting on every red carpet. While Hathaways induction into the fashion world can be traced back to her role in the 2006 film, the actor has revealed that shes recently been taking style cues from Generation Z.

In a conversation with Vogue published on 29 August, the Princess Diaries star opened up about her motivation to take fashion risks in recent years. I know this sounds like Im super-pandering, but Im really switched on by Gen Z, she confessed. Its a fun generation when it comes to fashion.

Hathaway went on to not only credit the group of individuals born between the late 1990s to the early 2000s for her style playfulness, but the artistic direction of standout designers. I feel like designers are having a lot of fun, she said.

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I feel like people are enjoying it. Maybe it was always the case, and maybe I was the only person in the corner watching everybody else have fun, Hathaway continued. But just the ability to enjoy it feels like its more available to me now than it ever was before.

The Interstellar actor has been collaborating with stylist Erin Walsh on some of her most sought-after looks, such as her Karl Lagerfeld-inspired Versace number she wore to this years Met Gala honouring the late Chanel designer.

On her partnership with the stylist, Hathaway said: She inspires me. Her style has really rubbed off on me, and the way she wears things, whatever it is, she always wears it in the most effortless way possible.

Walsh expressed the same sentiment about Hathaway when speaking to E! News this past May. Whats more stylish than a woman who is embodying her ultimate essence and dressing the part? Walsh admitted. Anne is beautiful inside and out. Its very inspiring to see someone actually glowing.

Much like her character in The Devil Wears Prada, Hathaway used to feel trapped under one aesthetic when it came to her everyday fashion. She explained how she preferred to play it safe, and didnt realise that she could assume some of the unique looks that shed seen others in.

I thought that I could only have one, the Academy Award-winner proclaimed. I felt really lost because I didnt know what that was until I realised I have so many styles. Once I realised that, then I felt like something clicked. But thats just me. Its different. Some people are like, Nope, black turtleneck every day.

Whether shes sitting front row at a Louis Vuitton runway show wearing a collared mini dress and elevated updo, or donning an all-latex black ensemble with sheer tights for Versace, Hathaways style can no longer be categorised under just one uniform.
Gov. Brian Kemp announced another Korean auto parts manufacturer would be building a facility in Georgia.

According to the governors announcement, Daesol Ausys Georgia will build a new manufacturing operation in West Point, creating more than 140 jobs and investing $72 million in Harris County.

West Point is also home to Kia and Hyundai assembly sites.

The governors office announcement said Daesol Ausys is a key supplier for Kia, Hyundai, and General Motors.

[DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]

West Point has become an automotive capital in its own right, and we are excited that Daesol Ausys will join other innovators in Harris County, Kemp said in a statement. Our states automotive industry employs over 50,000 hardworking Georgians and will continue to grow as e-mobility suppliers choose all corners of the state for the jobs of the future.

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The newly announced West Point plant will be focused on producing luggage boards and covers. Daesol Ausys specializes in designing and manufacturing the interior components and accessories for electric vehicles.

TRENDING STORIES:

The governors office said automotive industry job creation rose 324% in the 2023 fiscal year compared to 2021, attributing it to Georgias business climate and the states work to pursue the entire supply chain for electric vehicles.

Were committed to delivering world-class services that exceed our clients requirements and expectations, Min Ho Kwon, CEO of Daesol Ausys, said. We are very excited about this project in the Northwest Harris Business Park and look forward to continuing the partnership with the State of Georgia and Harris County.

The Daesol facility in West Point is expected to begin operations in December 2024, hiring for job openings in production, purchasing, quality control, maintenance, human resources, and management.

In recent months, multiple Korean manufacturing companies with ties to the automotive industry have announced developments in Georgia, including EV parts manufacturer NVH Korea and automotive supplier Hanon Systems.

Additionally, Woory Industrial announced the opening of an EV parts manufacturing and research facility would be built in Georgia in June.

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OTHER NEWS:
A bill strengthening civil rights protections against caste discrimination earned approval from the California Assembly Monday, placing the measure one step closer to Gov. Gavin Newsoms desk for his signature.

Senate Bill 403 passed the Assembly by an overwhelming 55-3 margin. Previous changes in committee de-emphasized caste in the bills language, but the measure withstood months of campaigning by critics who called on lawmakers to remove the word or kill the bill in its entirety.

California is still a state that stands for civil rights, said Thenmozhi Soundararajan, executive director of Equality Labs, among a crowd of cheerful supporters. She notes the death threats reported by activists and the bills author, Senator Aisha Wahab D-Hayward. I think the opponents lead with caste doesnt exist and then lead with political violence, and lead with insinuation and fear and bigotry. That wont get you very far in California.

The bill, which cleared the Senate in its original form, goes back to that chamber for a re-vote.

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Lawmakers chose to put aside arguments that the bill would unfairly target South Asian Americans due to stereotypes linking caste with India and Hinduism. Instead, they backed progressive legal scholars and Dalit civil rights group, Equality Labs. The word Dalit refers to those violently relegated to the bottom of the South Asian caste system, which has historically controlled peoples jobs and education across various religions.

The bills supporters contend that clarity in the law is needed for a state that is seeing a growing number of South Asian Americans in sectors like Bay Area tech, housing, and employment. They say theres no point pretending that caste discrimination hasnt made its way here, and naming caste secures clarity in investigations and court rooms where officials are often unaware of what the system is.

I appreciate every Assembly member who voted in support of SB 403 today. I thank them for their courage in joining me on this journey of enshrining in our state laws protections against caste discrimination, said Wahab in a press release after the vote.

Caste remains despite repeated attacks

Critics efforts to curry favor with lawmakers scored them a June letter from Assemblymen Alex Lee and Evan Low of the Asian American Pacific Islander Caucus, which has previously declined to take a position on the bill. They requested the Assembly Judiciary Committee sideline caste as a subcategory of ancestry or pause the bill for further study. The committee approved the change on July 5, after Wahab had stripped the bills background information on South Asia and the caste system.

But the opposition maintains the revisions to the bill dont go far enough.

So long as caste is equated with India in the public imagination and the state of California requires public schools to teach caste as something unique and inherent to India and Hinduism, caste will always be associated with South Asians, stated Samir Kalra, HAFs Managing Director and co-counsel, who testified before the Assembly Judiciary Committee in July.

The specific inclusion of the word (caste) under ancestry will be used to stigmatize and profile us as a matter of law, he added after the hearing.

Supporters of the bill have previously railed against the requested changes, calling on Lee and Low to come out in support of the bill after the amendments. Lee spoke in support on Monday, but Low abstained. Advocates argue that opponents wouldve come to the table by now if they were operating in good faith.

This is Asian hate. This is a civil rights issue. This is a womens rights issue, the bills author, Wahab told the Sacramento Bee back in July. If the word caste is not in there. Its not the caste bill, were not tackling caste.

A flashpoint for other issues

None of those who voted against the bill spoke out, but Assemblyman James Gallagher R-Yuba City, shared some of his thoughts. He cited concerns about equal protection under the law for some religious groups, which some lawmakers have previously said they will leave up to the courts.

The bill has become a flashpoint for a variety of political issues, some of which extend beyond the United States. The influence of rising Hindu nationalism that has targeted religious and caste minorities in India has been one point of concern. Opponents of the bill deny any ties to extremism and argue that theyve left behind caste in South Asia.

Some of the things that we have been seeing going on in India...we have called out on this floor, Gallagher said, adding that general law already covers caste discrimination. But whether or not we should pass this law, to me is something that I think needs a lot more thought.

In a press release, HAF Executive Director Suhag Shukla condemned the decision and pointed to over twenty abstentions in the final tally.

Fifty California legislators chose to side with anti-Hindu hate groups rather than showing moral courage and upholding the Constitution, Shukla said. When a state legislator pushes a law with the intent of targeting an ethnic community, its not only racist, its unconstitutional. We will explore every option to protect the rights of Hindu Californians.

The three no votes included Assemblyman Vince Fong R-Bakersfield. Assemblywoman Megan Dahle, R-Bieber, and Assemblyman Josh Hoover, R-Folsom.
Ardrey Kell High, the largest high school in Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, ranks No. 10 on U.S. News & World Reports 2023-24 Best High Schools in North Carolina.

The list, released Tuesday, included several local schools in the top 25 for North Carolina and a Greensboro school as No. 1 in the country  The Early College at Guilford. Steam Early College at N.C. A&T was No. 2 in North Carolina behind The Early College at Guilford.

Onslow Early College in Jacksonville (No. 3), Wake NCSU STEM Early College High School in Raleigh (No. 4) and Raleigh Charter High School round out the top 5 in North Carolina.

Ardrey Kell ranked No. 1 among Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools 33 high schools on U.S. News & World Reports 2021 Best High Schools List released on Tuesday, April 27, 2021.

Local schools in the top 25 for N.C. include:

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 Community School of Davidson, No. 13

 Marvin Ridge High in Waxhaw, No. 14

 Pine Lake Preparatory in Mooresville, No. 15

 Gray Stone Day School in Misenheimer, No. 16

 Central Academy of Technology and Arts in Monroe, No. 17

 Providence High in Charlotte, No. 18

 J.T. Williams Secondary Montessori in Charlotte, No. 19

 Lake Norman Charter in Huntersville, No. 21

 Weddington High in Matthews, No. 23.

To develop its rankings, U.S. News & World Report evaluated nearly 18,000 public high schools in the United States. The rankings showcase schools whose students demonstrate outstanding outcomes, surpass anticipated benchmarks and achieve high graduation rates.

The highest-ranked U.S. public schools demonstrated outstanding outcomes above expectations in math, reading and science state assessments and earned qualifying scores in an array of college-level exams, among others, according to U.S. News & World Report.

National charter school rankings

U.S. News & World Report also ranked charter schools on a separate list from public schools. Raleigh Charter High School ranked highest on the nationwide charter list at No. 33.

Other N.C. charter high schools ranked nationally include:

 Woods Charter School in Chapel Hill at No. 103

 Community School of Davidson at No. 118

 Pine Lake Preparatory in Mooresville at No. 120

 Gray Stone Day in Misenheimer at No. 125

 Lake Norman Charter in Huntersville at No. 137

 Research Triangle High School in Durham at No. 138

 North Carolina Leadership Academy in Kernersville at No. 151.

Other Charlotte-area charter schools in the Top 500 include:

 Bradford Preparatory School in Charlotte at No. 302

 Union Academy in Monroe at 314

 York Preparatory Academy in Rock Hill, S.C., at No. 424.

More local rankings

U.S. News & World Report ranked the Highland School of Technology in Gastonia No. 77 in the country for best magnet schools nationwide.

Northwest School of the Arts in Charlotte ranked No. 139, and Myers Park High in Charlotte ranked No. 202 under the best magnet school category.
Japan's credibility deficit will only be further expanded

10:00, August 29, 2023 By Zhong Sheng ( People's Daily

Recently, the Japanese government forcibly started discharging the nuclear-contaminated water from the crippled Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant into the ocean, in total disregard of the opposition from the international community and turning a blind eye to the rights to health, development and environment of the Japanese people and people in the rest of the world. This has set a dangerous precedent in human history.

No matter how Japan tries to defend itself, it cannot evade responsibility for damaging the ecological environment and polluting the ocean.

People gather to protest the Japanese government and Tokyo Electric Power Company's (TEPCO) decision on releasing nuclear-contaminated wastewater into the Pacific Ocean in front of the Prime Minister's Office of Japan in Tokyo, Japan, Aug. 25, 2023. (People's Daily/Yue Linwei)

For over two years, the legitimacy, legality and safety of Japan's ocean discharge plan has been strongly questioned by the international community. Yet the Japanese side has constantly tried to create the false impression that discharging the nuclear-contaminated water is safe and harmless for the world.

On the very day Japan unilaterally commenced the discharge, Japanese media revealed that the Japanese government had planned to spend 70 billion yen (about $480 million) in dealing with negative information about the nuclear-contaminated water discharge, which further indicated Japan's duplicity.

If the nuclear-contaminated water was truly "safe to drink" as proclaimed by Japan, there would be no need for the Japanese government to discharge it into the ocean against strong opposition. Outwardly, Japan touts the safety of ocean discharge, but secretly it conceals accidents, falsifies data, reneges on promises, and more. Such duplicity will only exacerbate Japan's credibility deficit.

When forcibly pushing ahead with the discharge plan, Japan deliberately concealed the fact that it lacks the capability to ensure safety. According to recent Japanese media reports, highly radioactive substances failing to meet standards were detected in June this year in water pooled inside the bank surrounding the contaminated water tanks of the plant. However, it was not until recently that Tokyo Electric Power Company (TEPCO), the plant's operator, disclosed investigation results showing that cracks in a hose used to transfer nuclear-contaminated water caused leaks.

This once again confirmed doubts about Japan's ability to handle the nuclear-contaminated water. If Japan keeps having problems storing the water, how can it guarantee safety over the decades-long discharge of over 1.3 million tons into the ocean?

TEPCO has a history of concealment and data falsification. Reports show that TEPCO admitted in 2007 to have falsified data in 199 inspections at the Fukushima No.1 and No.2 plants since 1977, even concealing serious reactor accidents. After June 2011, TEPCO long claimed that no new nuclear-contaminated water was flowing into the ocean. But following revelations of a series of leaks in 2013, TEPCO admitted in July that year that highly concentrated radioactive water had been leaking into the sea. In February 2015, TEPCO was again exposed for hiding the facts when it was revealed that the company knew that high-concentration radioactive water had been continuously flowing from a drainage ditch into the sea since April 2014 but did not announce it or take any remedial action.

A Japanese journalist said that TEPCO routinely conceals facts and even releases false information regarding the nuclear accident and nuclear-contaminated water discharge.

A protest initiated by Japanese opposition parties and labor unions attracts about 500 Japanese citizens near the Port of Onahama, the largest port in Japan's Fukushima. They gather to protest the Japanese government and Tokyo Electric Power Company's (TEPCO) decision on releasing nuclear-contaminated wastewater into the Pacific Ocean. (People's Daily/Yue Linwei)

Japan's government also has a trust deficit regarding oversight and inspection of reactor safety. A 2011 UN report already revealed flaws like lax oversight and insufficient preparedness in Japan's nuclear safety practices. With such irresponsible behaviors, how can Japan ensure the nuclear-contaminated water is handled in a science-based, safe and transparent manner?

The nuclear-contaminated water from the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant contains dozens of radionuclides, many of which cannot be treated effectively with existing technologies. Some long-lived radionuclides may spread with ocean currents and form a bioconcentration effect, which will cause potential hazards to the marine environment and human health.

Since trial operations began in 2013, problems have continuously occurred with Japan's Advanced Liquid Processing System for treating the nuclear-contaminated water. The facility's effectiveness and long-term reliability have not been verified by any third-party, and it cannot be guaranteed that treated water meets discharge standards.

A South Korean civic group survey showed 79 percent of respondents considered the claimed safety of Japan's so-called "treated" nuclear-contaminated water "unreliable". Concerns from all parties have factual basis.

In 2015, the Japanese government gave a written pledge to the Fukushima Prefectural Federation of Fisheries Cooperative Associations, solemnly promising no disposal measures would be taken regarding the nuclear-contaminated water without the understanding of stakeholders. Japan did not adequately consult with stakeholders including neighboring countries and still unilaterally commenced ocean discharge despite strong opposition. This practice of saying one thing and doing another completely lacks credibility.

A Japanese proverb says trust is the foundation of all things. But regarding the nuclear-contaminated water issue, Japan's credibility is completely bankrupt. The international community must urge Japan to correct its erroneous decision, halt the ocean discharge, communicate in good faith with neighboring countries, handle the nuclear-contaminated water responsibly, and accept strict international supervision.

(Zhong Sheng is a pen name often used by People's Daily to express its views on foreign policy and international affairs.)

(Web editor: Chang Sha, Liang Jun)
Tailei Qi, the graduate student suspected in the fatal shooting of a University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill faculty member, center, makes his first appearance at the Orange County Courthouse in Hillsborough, N.C., Tuesday, Aug. 29, 2023. (Hannah Schoenbaum/AP)

CHAPEL HILL, N.C.  A University of North Carolina graduate student walked into a classroom building, shot his faculty adviser and quickly left, authorities said a day after the attack locked campus down as police searched for the gunman.

Tailei Qi, 34, was charged Tuesday with first-degree murder and having a gun on educational property in Mondays killing of Zijie Yan inside a science building at the states flagship public university.

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Chapel Hill police arrested Qi without force in a residential neighborhood near campus within two hours of the attack, UNC Police Chief Brian James said at a news conference.

Investigators were trying to determine a motive and searching for the gun, James said. He declined to specify where in Caudill Labs Yan was killed, saying officers are still looking at evidence. Qi was already gone when a team of officers reached the building, James said.

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Yan was a beloved colleague, mentor and a friend of so many on our campus and a father to two young children, UNC Chancellor Kevin Guskiewicz at the news conference.

On Wednesday, the schools iconic Bell Tower will ring in honor of Yans memory and students are encouraged to take a moment of silence, he said. The school also canceled classes until Thursday.

Earlier Tuesday, Qi briefly appeared in Orange County Superior Court. Judge Sherri Murrell ordered Qi to remain jailed without bond and scheduled his next court date for Sept. 18. After the hearing, Qi bowed to his Mandarin interpreter, public defender Dana Graves and the guards who took him away in handcuffs.

Graves left court without talking to reporters and didnt immediately respond to an email seeking comment.

Yan was an associate professor in the Department of Applied Physical Sciences who had worked for the university since 2019, UNC said Tuesday. He led the Yan Research Group, which Qi joined last year, according to the groups UNC webpage.

Yan was a respected and approachable professor and research adviser who was deeply knowledgeable about the field, said Wen Liu, a 2022 graduate who worked in the lab for three years.

He was somewhat reserved, yet always willing to answer questions with patience and respect and advise lab members who got stuck in their research, Liu said.

For hours he would just be doing things and explaining along the way, said Liu, who was a newbie undergrad in the field at the time and also worked with Qi in the lab. Qi seemed passionate about research, curious about others work and pretty sociable, Liu said.

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The labs main goals were making and studying nanoparticles under the effect of light, using lasers, he said. The work has potential applications in medicine and other fields.

A since-deleted page on the schools website listed Qi as a graduate student in Yans research group, with Yan as his adviser, though the police chief said their ties were still under investigation. Qi previously studied at Wuhan University in China before earning a masters in mechanical engineering at Louisiana State University in 2021.

The attack and hourslong lockdown terrified students and faculty who had returned last week for the start of the fall semester. On Tuesday, students pet therapy dogs on campus and chalked hearts, peace signs and messages of hope on walking paths.

Noel Harris, a senior journalism student, said she spent confusing and scary hours locked in a class reading news coverage, listening to police scanners and waiting for university updates about whether the danger had passed.

When an officer arrived, the class asked him to slide his badge under the door first, Harris said. The officer said they were safe but recommended they wait until an all-clear was issued. Soon after, Harris recorded video of people climbing out of an adjacent buildings windows, and she started to wonder so is it really safe? Whats going on? she said.

She said Tuesday that she was still trying to understand why the students left through the windows of Phillips Hall, where math and other classes are held but no shots were fired.

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I felt myself just being scared and shocked, but then not shocked at the same time because its like, this happens every day, Harris said.

This story has been corrected to show the police chiefs last name is James, not Jones.

Robertson reported from Raleigh, North Carolina, and Rankin reported from Richmond, Virginia. Associated Press writers Jonathan Drew in Hillsborough, North Carolina, Sarah Brumfield in Silver Spring, Maryland, and Ben Finley in Norfolk, Virginia, contributed to this report.
There's nothing quite like a lobster roll, and Rhode Island is full of excellent options.

But the quest to find the best one can be a long (and expensive) search, so The Providence Journal recently put it to readers in an unscientific poll. First, we asked readers to nominate places to include in the poll on our Instagram page @ProJoEats, which we then compiled into a true poll asking people to vote for their favorite.

Hundreds of votes later, we have the results. Here are seven reader-favorite lobster-roll spots to check out in Rhode Island.

A lobster roll from Eastons Beach Snack Bar in Newport.

Where to get it: 175 Memorial Blvd., Newport

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What to know: The clear favorite in the poll, with a margin of more than 100 votes, Eastons delivers a value that cant be beat of $23.97 for twin lobster rolls with mayo. Theres enough lobster in them for a full meal. Plus, you get to eat them right on the beach.

Loster rolls on Aquideneck Island: You've got to try these

Where to get it: 239 Dyer St., Providence

What to know: This adorable seafood place is located by the Providence River pedestrian bridge, and its dedicated to serving local seafood  including the crowd-favorite lobster roll. Its a warm lobster roll with buttered tail and claw meat and mayo served with Old Bay fries. Come for the lobster roll, come back to discover the rest of the menu.

Get your seafood fix: 14 can't-miss clam shacks to satisfy your seafood craving around RI

You can take in the water view from a picnic table at Monahan's Clam Shack by the Sea, 190 Ocean Road, Narragansett.

Where to get it: 190 Ocean Road, Narragansett or 5402 Post Road, Charlestown

What to know: Choose between Monahans famous hot lobster roll with lobster thats been lightly sauteed in drawn butter and seasoning or their cold lobster roll. Either way, readers assure us you wont leave disappointed. Wed be remiss not to mention the Narragansett location is set right on the seawall for a view that pairs perfectly with your dinner.

Destination Narragansett: Some of the best restaurants that capture the essence of summer

Fourth place: Blount Clam Shack

The Blount Clam Shacks Giant Lobster Roll lives up to its name, with a heaping half-pound of lobster piled into an extra-long grilled roll.

Where to get it: 335 Water St., Warren

What to know: Here you can pick how you want your lobster roll: Small (which isnt really that small at a quarter-pound) or the giant, half-pound option. Theyll also prepare it three different ways: mixed with the house-made dill mayo, cold with warm butter on the side or tossed in warm butter. This place is right on the waterfront, and guests are invited to come by land or by sea.

Fifth place: Matunuck Oyster Bar

The lobster roll at Matunuck Oyster Bar, in South Kingstown, includes larger-than-average chunks of lobster artfully arranged in a hefty split-top roll warmed with lots of butter.

Where to get it: 629 Succotash Road, Wakefield

What to know: Sure, youve heard about their oysters and the oyster farm you can visit, but the lobster roll is also worth a trip. The lobster roll, which comes with fries but could be upgraded to truffle fries or even a beet and goat-cheese salad, is a chilled lobster roll dressed with mayonnaise and chopped celery on a buttery, grilled roll.

How do you like it: 7 of the best spots in RI for your lobster-roll fix

Sixth place: Twin Oaks

While the Cranston establishment is more known for its Italian food, Twin Oaks' lobster roll is not to be missed.

Where to get it: 100 Sabra St., Cranston

What to know: A Rhode Island institution for more than 80 years, Twin Oaks is known for its Italian food and hospitality, but dont sleep on their lobster roll. It's a huge portion that goes light on the mayonnaise, and readers voted it one of the best in the state.

Where to get it: 2247 Warwick Ave., Warwick

What to know: Starting with fresh ingredients, Tommys has two different lobster rolls on the menu: the hot lobster roll served on a brioche bun with a side of melted butter, and the cold lobster roll that theyve labeled as world famous. Either way, you cant go wrong. And if that doesn't seem like enough lobster roll for you, they have a giant option.

What's next?

The Providence Journal's next poll will rank restaurants with waterfront views. With more than 400 miles of coastline, there are a lot of restaurants to choose from. To be included in the polling round, email klandeck@gannett.com or comment on the post requesting favorites on our Instagram account @ProJoEats.

This article originally appeared on The Providence Journal: Where to get the best RI lobster roll. 7 picks from ProJo readers poll
There is a noticeable lack of men on the Polish labor market

Around 60-70% of Ukrainians who sought refuge in Poland following Russias full-scale invasion of Ukraine are choosing to pursue low-skilled professions, an analysis by NV has revealed.

Amidst a burgeoning national economy, the Polish job market is facing a pressing demand for diverse professionals, including in the construction sector, medical fields (ranging from nurses to psychotherapists), as well as electricians, locksmiths, carpenters, welders, chefs, bakers, transportation and logistics personnel, and even accountants.

Read also: IT companies show increasing activity in job market, despite crisis

The insights were revealed by an analysis of the Occupational Barometer 2022 study.

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This information is detailed in the article titled Conveyor belt from the East: How Ukrainians have become the driver of Polands economy, featured in Issue No. 3 of NV Magazine.

Presently, the majority of Ukrainian citizens residing in Poland are women with children, who often find employment below their level of qualifications. This data originates from a study conducted by the EWL Migration Platform and the Center for East European Studies at the University of Warsaw.

Read also: Top 5 Polish cities in need of Ukrainian workers and proposed salaries

A significant trend within the Polish job market is the notable shortage of male workers, with the most challenging vacancies to fill being those necessitating specialized qualifications such as welding, carpentry, and electrical expertise. Anna Dzhobolda, Director of the Recruitment Department at Gremi Personal, shared this observation.

From the perspective of Polish employers, approximately 5,000 job openings are available to Ukrainians on average each month, with the highest numbers concentrated in Warsaw, Krakow, and Wroclaw, said Victoria Novosad, an analyst at jobs website Jooble.

Novosad further said that during the winter months, there are more vacancies for Ukrainians in Poland in areas such as retail, sales, and related warehouse administrative roles. Conversely, the summer months see a surge in job openings in the production and construction sectors, in roles such as mechanics, electricians, builders, and welders.

Popular positions for Ukrainians in Poland as of July include seasonal work in the restaurant and hotel industry, Novosad added.

Opportunities for drivers encompassing various categories and delivery roles are also abundant. However, the demand for white-collar positions like Java Developers or Project Managers arises less frequently, Novosad said.

Read also: Survey reveals what would persuade Ukrainian refugees in Poland to return home

Moreover, Ukrainians are progressively venturing into higher-skilled roles spanning IT, sales, HR, management, personnel administration, and finance. This transformation is attributed not solely to the growing assimilation of compatriots in Poland but also to the prevalence of Ukrainian-owned businesses in the local market. These businesses often hire fellow Ukrainians for a range of responsibilities, as highlighted by job agency Gremi Personal.

Gremi Personal identifies the top three sought-after positions as cooks, berry and vegetable/fruit pickers, and kitchen assistants. Also featuring in the top ten are courier-drivers, dishwashers, waiters, baker assistants, general laborers, housekeepers, and caregivers for the elderly.

These are the roles most frequently chosen by our clients when seeking employment, said Gremi Personals Dzhobolda. She also noted that the majority of these positions are concentrated in the food industry and logistics sectors, including packaging.

Read also: Europe struggling to plug workforce gaps with Ukrainian refugees, media reports

Dzhobolda noted that roughly 60-70% of those arriving in Poland after the full-scale invasion enter the workforce without a strong command of Polish, leading them to often opt for low-skilled professions. However, another trend is also emerging. While prior to the conflict, the majority of Ukrainian labor migrants did not actively pursue language learning, nearly 80% of current compatriots are now learning Polish. This shift is attributed to the desire for integration and future prospects of securing more qualified roles.

This article was originally published in the August 2023 Issue No. 3 of NV Magazine.

Were bringing the voice of Ukraine to the world. Support us with a one-time donation, or become a Patron!

Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
The embattled California agency that provides employment services and unemployment insurance has been designated as a high-risk agency in a new report from the state auditors office.

The Employment Development Departments mishandling of the states unemployment insurance program and its failure to issue accurate eligibility rulings poses a substantial risk of serious detriment to California and its residents, according to the Aug. 24 report. The departments inability to estimate how much money was lost to fraud also significantly delayed state accounting reports for fiscal years 2019-20 and 2020-21.

As part of the high-risk audit program, the auditors office will conduct check-ins with EDD once every 18 months to evaluate whether the agency has made enough progress to be removed from the elevated designation.

California lost an estimated $20 billion in pandemic-era unemployment aid to fraudsters, which experts have said would be difficult to recover. Most of that money came from the now-ended federally-funded Pandemic Unemployment Assistance program, created just after the pandemic triggered an economic shutdown in March 2020.

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Congress and President Donald Trumps administration quickly created the PUA program and granted benefits to those who had traditionally not been eligible for unemployment insurance. However, the program did not include the same rigorous checks and balances typical of regular state programs, such as using employer-reported wage data to determine eligibility. Suddenly, independent contractors, small business owners and others could qualify while, at the same time, EDD was deluged with applications.

The unemployment agency pushed back on the auditors high-risk label, pointing to numerous efforts and changes that the department made to satisfy the auditors previous recommendations.

The auditors risk scenarios in this high-risk report do not reflect the fraud prevention measures in place today and instead reflect outdated challenges that impacted the department at the height of the pandemic, wrote the EDD in an official response to the auditors report.

Auditor says EDDs improvements are insufficient

In addition to questioning EDDs ability to quantify and recover fraudulent payments, the auditor criticized the department for having the third-highest reversal rate of unemployment eligibility decisions in the nation, as of March. From 2017 to 2022, about 50% of the issues that claimants appealed were ultimately overturned in favor of the claimant, which is consistent with the high rate of overturned decisions that the auditor pointed out in a different audit from nine years ago.

These improper eligibility decisions can serve as unnecessary obstacles to claimants right to benefits and can result in a significant reduction in the overall effectiveness of the (unemployment insurance) program, the report stated.

The auditor outlined how EDD is still lagging in its ability to provide timely customer service. The initial payment on an unemployment claim should be made within three weeks, according to the U.S. Department of Labor, and state departments should aim to pay 87% of those first payments on time. According to the report, EDD paid between 81% and 86% of those payments within three weeks of filing  just shy of the recommended threshold. The auditor also cited a figure that between January and May, individuals called EDD on average between three and eight times a week trying to get help with their claims.

The auditors report acknowledges that EDD deserves some credit for making progress in all of these issue areas since the height of the pandemic. Still, the auditor doesnt view such progress as adequate.

EDDs current corrective action remains insufficient and is a contributing element to our designation of the agency as highrisk, the report said.

EDD says auditors claims rest on outdated information

In the last three years, EDD contends that it partnered with ID.me, a commercial identity verification service, and Pondera, an investigation consulting firm by Thomson Reuters, to identify potential fraud cases early on. The department says those changes have prevented nearly $43.4 billion in fraudulent benefit payments from being issued.

Some of EDDs fraud prevention measures, particularly the use of the Pondera firm, were scrutinized and criticized by a 2022 report from the Legislative Analysts Office.

That analysis said the states use of these programs adversely impacted the experience of several hundred thousand unemployed workers with legitimate claims. The LAO counseled the Legislature to reject future contracts with Pondera and advised that EDD scale back its anti-fraud efforts. The office added that such high levels of security are not likely to be useful now that automated identity verification is in place.

EDD also pushed back against the claims that the departments decisions are frequently overturned by the California Unemployment Insurance Appeals Board. The department disagreed with the auditors definition of the word overturned.

For example, if a claimant has an overpayment penalty reduced by the board, this is counted as overturned even if the EDDs decision of ineligibility is affirmed, the department wrote in its official response to the report. EDD does not believe this accurately reflects the integrity of its eligibility decisions.

The department also touted its improved customer service statistics. Between early June and mid-July this year, the average customer waited about 12.5 minutes to speak with an agent  a 64% improvement in response time from the pandemic, according to EDDs official response.

To further fortify the positive trajectory in customer service, the EDD has created a Customer Experience and User Experience team to conduct customer research and collect input to guide improvements, wrote Aubrey Henry, chief of media services at EDD, in an email statement to The Bee. That team will also guide the development of the ongoing multi-year modernization project known as EDDNext. The effort will overhaul different parts of EDDs benefits program, including the application and call center operations.
On August 8, 2023, President Biden established the Baaj Nwaavjo Itah Kukveni-Ancestral Footprints of the Grand Canyon National Monument. (photo by Darren Thompson)

The newly designated Baaj Nwaavjo Itah Kukveni Grand Canyon National Monument in northern Arizona does not prohibit mining as touted. Rather, all valid existing rights to minerals within the monument, including uranium, will be preserved, White House officials told Bloomberg.

One of the main rallying points to designating nearly one million acres of greater Grand Canyon landscape sacred to tribal nations and Indigenous peoples was to protect the region from mining.

The designation came less than a month after the U.S. Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and the U.S. Forest Service (USFS) hosted a public meeting on July 18, where citizens commented to leaders from federal agencies about the proposed monument.

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Many tribes said in press releases that the new monuments designation prohibits mining within its boundaries.

However, the designation doesnt block the permitted uranium and other precious metals mines in the region, such as copper. Energy Fuels Inc. said in an interview with Native News Online that it plans to proceed with mining uranium at its existing Pinyon Plain Mine.

All National Monuments are subject to valid existing rights, said Energy Fuels Vice President of Marketing and Corporate Development Curtis Moore in an interview with Native News Online.

Moore said that the companys mine has valid existing rights that have been affirmed by federal courts.

Future projects are probably much more in question, Moore said. The mine is expected to operate in the next couple of years, and once it begins mining it will only operate for a few years, Moore said. After the resource is depleted, Moore said, the company plans to reclaim the land the way it was before mining.

Tribes did not respond to Native News Online requests for comment.

Energy Fuels Inc.s shareholder reports can be viewed here.

About the Author: "Darren Thompson (Lac du Flambeau Ojibwe) is a staff reporter for Native News Online who is based in the Twin Cities of Minnesota. Thompson has reported on political unrest, tribal sovereignty, and Indigenous issues for the Aboriginal Peoples Television Network, Indian Country Today, Native News Online, Powwows.com and Unicorn Riot. He has contributed to the New York Times, the Washington Post, and Voice of America on various Indigenous issues in international conversation. He has a bachelor\u2019s degree in Criminology & Law Studies from Marquette University in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. "

Contact: dthompson@nativenewsonline.net
DENVER (KDVR)  Baby Grace Martz is now 3 months old and doing well.

Shes a very happy baby. Shes doing great, said her mother, Jackie Martz.

When Martz was pregnant, doctors diagnosed her baby with gastroschisis, a birth defect that allows the intestines to spill out of a hole in the abdominal wall and grow outside the body. The condition occurs in about one in 2,000 babies born each year.

Denver has 225 one-way streets. Heres why

When Grace was born, doctors at Rocky Mountain Hospital for Children in Denver were prepared. About three hours after birth, Grace went into surgery.

They made a small incision and shoved the intestines back in, and in the process, they actually found that her fallopian tube and ovary were also hanging out, Jackie Martz said.

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Dr. Sarah Lai performed the surgery.

Her intestines were very, very bloated, and although I was able to take her to the operating room and get everything back in, it was just a little bit too tight, Lai said.

So, Lai left a bit of intestine outside the body in a silo bag for a few days until the bloating went down, then she put everything back inside and sewed up the baby, leaving just a 1-inch scar that will serve as a belly button.

CPW to the rescue: Elk tangles antlers in wire

Grace was in the neonatal intensive care unit for four weeks, but once her intestines started to function and she could eat well, she was able to go home.

There shouldnt be any long-term effects, her mother said.

But the babys parents are aware of one possible quirk.

Her appendix might be on a different side because when they put it all in, from what we understand, its just kind of in there and things could be in different spots, said Matt Martz, Graces father.

One thing is for sure  it will make for an interesting story.

Were excited to see her grow up, her dad said. Were excited to see her have a normal life.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA.
PROVIDENCE  The former wife of a retired Providence police major struck out in her claim that she, rather than the man's wife at the time of his death, was the beneficiary of his retirement benefits as part of their 1994 divorce.

The case centered on who was legally considered Mike Wilson's surviving spouse  his ex-wife or his wife at the time of his death.

A Superior Court judge ruled last week that Marilyn Wilson was not entitled to the pension of her ex-husband, the late Providence Police Maj. Milton R. Mike Wilson, but that the benefits should, under state law and city ordinance, instead flow to his wife at the time of his death in December 2020. The judge's decision contradicted an agreement recorded in divorce proceedings decades earlier in Family Court.

Mike Wilson joined the Providence Police Department in 1957, a graduate of the citys 18th Police Academy. He was promoted to sergeant in 1967 and lieutenant four years later, rising to captain and eventually major in 1983. In that role, he led the Detective Bureau, according to his obituary.

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More on RI courts: Kids as translators? Non-English speakers lack trained interpreters in RI's local courts

Divorce settlement gives benefits to ex-wife

According to the ruling, Marilyn and Mike Wilson married in 1988. Marilyn Wilson filed for divorce six years later.

Mike Wilson retired before the final divorce judgment could be entered. He applied for service retirement on Dec. 27, 1994, submitting for retirement benefits to the Employee Retirement System on March 15, 1995. He selected the maximum retirement allowance with continuing benefits to [his] wife (Marilyn Wilson) immediately upon [his] death," according to the lawsuit.

On April 29, 1995, Marilyn and Mike Wilson executed a Property Settlement Agreement to divide their property and to determine support obligations. That agreement specified that Mike Wilson shall nominate [Marilyn] as the designated beneficiary to receive his survivor pension benefits from the City of Providence.

In June 1, 1995, the state's Family Court entered a decision, pending the entry of a final judgment, that incorporated the terms of the agreement by reference but did not merge the terms into the final judgment.

Mike Wilson married Diane Wilson in 1997 and the couple lived together and shared property and financial resources until his death on December 5, 2020, according to the suit. Upon his death, the City of Providence began paying surviving spouse benefits to Diane Wilson.

Ex-wife sues for benefits

In January 2021, Marilyn Wilson, through her lawyers Robert P. Brooks and Stephen D. Lapatin, contacted Deputy City Solicitor Kenneth B. Chiavarini, claiming she was entitled to surviving spouse benefits based on the divorce decree. Chiavarini replied that any death benefit under Wilsons maximum option pension would have been used up about 10 years after his retirement, leaving none remaining to be paid to Marilyn Wilson as the designated beneficiary. He also informed Marilyn Wilson that the surviving spouse benefit, based on state law, was to be paid to the current surviving spouse, the ruling states.

Marilyn Wilson filed for relief in Family Court, which declined to rule on whether the city was required to pay her the surviving spouse benefits.

More: They faced weapons charges after a traffic stop. Why RI courts suppressed the evidence.

In March 2022, Marilyn Wilson filed a complaint in Superior Court against the City of Providence, alleging breach of contract and that she be declared the recipient of the surviving spouse benefit.

That November, Diane Wilson filed a cross-claim against the city, seeking a declaration that she was Mike Wilson's surviving spouse and was entitled to his surviving spouse pension benefits.

Superior Court Judge Melanie Wilk Thunberg heard arguments in the case in May.

Who is the surviving spouse?

According to the ruling, Marilyn Wilson argued that she was Mike Wilson's surviving spouse and entitled to the benefits because both state law and city ordinance governing the pensions lack an anti-alienation provision. She also asserted that there was nothing in the law or the ordinance restricting the surviving spouse to being the person married to the retiree upon their death.

Diane Wilson countered that she was the surviving and dependent spouse based on the plain meaning of the word spouse, defined as someone united to another person by marriage who is living and not divorced, and because they were married at the time of his death.

The city bolstered Diane Wilson's position, stating that under the mandatory language of the ordinance, the City Councils clear intent was to ensure the economic security of the surviving spouses of police officers.

A matter of first impression in RI

Judge Thunberg determined that Contrary to Marilyns argument  the term `spouse by itself refers to a person who is lawfully married, rather than a person who was previously lawfully married.

Additionally, the judge said, there is absolutely nothing in the language of the statute or ordinance to indicate that the term `spouse should encompass a persons `ex-spouse or former spouse.

The judge concluded that state law and the ordinance were clearly intended to provide financial support to the spouse or the minor children of a deceased retiree at a time during which they could be financially vulnerable.

The city asserted that the question of whether a final judgment of divorce can divest a surviving spouse of a statutorily guaranteed right to a pension benefit is one of first impression in Rhode Island, but expressed no opinion otherwise, according to the ruling.

Thunberg emphasized that the property settlement agreement was incorporated, but not merged into the final judgment in the Wilsons divorce. Accordingly, she said, the agreement was not enforceable as a judgment of the Family Court, but instead, was enforceable as a property settlement agreement made between Marilyn Wilson and Mike Wilson.

Here, even assuming that the Property Settlement Agreement grants Marilyn the surviving spouse benefit, such a provision would be void for violating the clear mandate[s] governing retiree benefits under state law and city ordinance, the ruling said.

Further, contrary to Marilyns argument, the Courts holding will not destabilize the finality of divorce decrees or undermine the authority of the Family Court, the judge wrote. The Courts decision merely reflects that a property settlement agreement which attempts to grant a spouse property in violation of the law is ineffectual.

The judge ruled that notwithstanding the Property Settlement Agreement and Final Judgment of Divorce, Diane Wilson, rather than Marilyn Wilson, is Mr. Wilsons surviving and dependent spouse under the material, undisputed facts of this case and pursuant to the plain and unambiguous language of state law and city ordinance.

This article originally appeared on The Providence Journal: RI court battle over retired cop's pension benefit pits ex against current wife
The Beaufort County council selected Greenville-based law firm, Haynsworth Sinkler Boyd, to conduct their audits of county spending under former administrator Greenway. According to the law firms website, their primary area of expertise is providing a wide array of legal services to banks and other depository institutions, finance companies, investment banking firms and other financial service providers. The website also touts the firms expertise in issues of public financing by government bodies.

While officials have not revealed exactly what theyll be looking for, we do know they will be looking at purchases and contracts approved by the county since January 1. Theyll also review the countys procurement code and purchase card systems to determine if there are needed updates or revisions.

The audits come in the wake of Greenways firing by council and the ongoing criminal misconduct investigation of Greenway by a joint task force of the 1st and 14th Solicitors offices.

The firm will receive $350,000 for their work. Funding will come out of the countys general fund contingencies.

Every County Council member is focused on gathering all the necessary information and working together to make the most informed decisions to correct these problems, strengthen county policies and move forward, said Chairman Joseph Passiment in a county press release. It will take time but we will make it happen.
Bed bugs were cleared from a Belk department store at a North Carolina shopping mall, officials said.

Upon learning of bed bugs in our Wilmington store, we partnered with a professional pest company to eliminate the issue, the company told McClatchy News in an Aug. 28 email. There is now no current pest activity.

While Belk in its email didnt give a specific location or timing, WECT and WWAY reported the bugs were seen at the chains Independence Mall store in Wilmington.

The pest company will continue to help us monitor and do preventative treatment throughout the store, Belk wrote. We take the health of our customers and associates seriously.

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Belk on Aug. 28 didnt immediately answer McClatchy News questions about how the bugs might have gotten into the store or share potential impacts on customers or workers.

What are bed bugs?

Bed bugs are described as good hitchhikers that can travel from place to place. People are urged to be cautious of the bugs in public, especially in storage areas and near upholstered furniture.

It is very unlikely, though not impossible, that a bed bug infestation will develop in an office, classroom, or other non-residential environment, such as a department store, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency wrote on its website. However, these sites can serve as transfer hubs for bed bugs to hitchhike a ride into your home.

Valeria Kosh of Port City Pest told WECT bigger stores could get bed bugs if a worker carries an item like a purse or backpack from an infested home. Shoppers probably didnt take the bugs with them from Belk unless they stayed in one part of the store for a long time or tried on clothes, Kosh said.

Bed bugs are small, with flat, oval-shaped bodies. They often leave behind reddish stains or tiny eggs near bedding. People who see signs of the bugs in public should notify workers so treatment plans can begin.

Man eaten alive by bed bugs and insects dies in Georgia jail, family attorney says

Bug-infested facility prepared contaminated crabmeat that was sold across US, feds say
VILNIUS, Lithuania  Belaruss democratic opposition in exile are increasingly worried about the consequences of their countrys growing isolation due to its alliance with Russia in its war on Ukraine.

They fear that Baltic states tightening security along the border with Belarus, amid increasing threats of a spillover from Moscows war, will trap its population under the dictatorship of long-time Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko .

Poland has plans to move 10,000 troops to the border with Belarus, while Lithuania last week closed two border crossings. The U.S. this month warned American citizens in Belarus to leave the country immediately, saying more closures along the borders with Lithuania, Latvia and Poland are expected.

Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya , the Belarusian democratic leader exiled in Vilnius, is warning that Belarus should not be left as a consolation prize for Russian President Vladimir Putin if Europe and the West seal off the country amid the fight for Ukraine.

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There must always be opportunity for Belarusian people to flee repression, she said in an exclusive interview with The Hill from her offices in the Lithuanian capital last week.

Just imagine if you close all the borders for people, its like you have keys for this prison and you are leaving Belarusians alone with this dictator, with this beast.

Lukashenko has been a key Putin ally since the start of the war, offering a staging ground before the invasion and more recently welcoming nuclear weapons and Russian mercenaries into the country.

After the death of Wagner Group leader Yevgeny Prigozhin, Lukashenko has said its forces are welcome to remain in the country, following a deal he brokered after a short-lived mutiny in Moscow two months ago.

Lukashenko, like Putin, has resorted to nuclear saber-rattling to intimidate Ukraines allies, suggesting all available tools will be used in response to Western aggression  though Belarus does not have nuclear weapons.

If aggression against our country is launched from the side of Poland, Lithuania, Latvia, we will immediately respond with everything we have, Lukashenko said in an interview earlier this month.

NATO stands behind Poland, Lithuania, Latvia. We certainly understand that the forces are incomparable. But we will deliver an unacceptable strike against them and they will receive unacceptable harm, damage. It is what our security concept is based on.

Tsikhanouskaya said Lukashenko has sacrificed Belarusian sovereignty, Belarusian safety, to do Putins bidding.

She was hopeful that Prigozhins death in a plane crash outside Moscow last week might be a positive development for Belarus.

Wagner mercenaries were completely dependent on his leadership, she said in a text after our interview. Hopefully, it would weaken or kill Wagner organization, and it wont be able to impose such threat to our country and our neighbors.

Prighozhins march for justice in June set off a flurry of activity among Tsikhanouskaya and her supporters, as it exposed the vulnerability of Putin.

The fate of Lukashenka, to a huge extent depends on the Kremlin, and any weakening of the Kremlin gives us an opportunity to make some concrete steps, she said.

We collected like, emergency coalition  where main stakeholders [met] just to synchronize our actions, she said of that days events. They mobilized social media campaigns preparing Belarusians for instructions on labor strikes or acts of sabotage.

But of course the situation with Prigozhin ended unexpectedly, the same as it started, and I think at that moment Lukashenko gained some political [clout], she said of the Belarusian leaders role as an intermediary.

With thousands of Wagner forces reportedly arriving in Belarus in the intervening weeks, its NATO neighbors are prioritizing their security over refuge for the Belarusian people.

Polands Interior Minister on Monday warned that Warsaw and the Baltic states are prepared to close the border with Belarus if a critical incident occurs.

Earlier this month, Poland accused Belarus of violating its airspace during a military exercise. And on Aug. 14, two Russians were arrested for disseminating Wagner recruiting information and propaganda in Warsaw and Krakow.

Lithuanian lawmakers are reportedly proposing to vote on legislation in September to impose more travel and residency restrictions on Belarusian nationals.

The law sends a political signal that Belarusian opposition exiles in the country are becoming less welcome, but Lithuanias security establishment says its driven by a need to stay vigilant against security threats from Minsk and Moscow.

Last week, the Vilnius-based, Belarusian opposition activist Olga Karach was reportedly denied asylum in the country over what Lithuanias State Security Department (VSD) alleged are ties to Russias intelligence services.

Karach has reportedly denied the charges and can stay in Lithuania because the VSD acknowledges she faces threats to her life if she returns to Belarus.

And earlier this month, Lithuania declared more than 1,000 Russian and Belarusian citizens living in the country as threats to national security and stripped them of their permanent residency status.

Tsikhanouskaya called the proposed legislation a challenge, but she called Lithuania our best partner and said shes been reassured by the Lithuanian government that support for the Belarusian people remains strong.

We are trying to find the best solution for this law, we are going to meet with parliamentarians to explain our position, she said.

Belaruss democratic opposition in exile is strained by limited resources three years since they launched an unprecedented challenge to Lukashenkos fraudulent claim of election victory in August 2020.

Tsikhanouskaya was Lukashenkos main challenger for president in his, at that time, 26-year reign.

Originally a stand-in for her imprisoned husband, Tsikhanouskaya was considered the likely winner of that election even as Lukashenko claimed 80 percent of the vote.

Massive protests broke out after the contested results were announced, followed by an even more intensive crackdown on dissent.

Tsikhanouskaya was forced to flee Belarus for Lithuania over the threat of arrest. In March, a court in Belarus sentenced her, in absentia, to 15 years in prison on charges of conspiring to overthrow the government.

Her husband remains in prison, one of an estimated 1,500 political prisoners in Belarus and with many subject to isolation, torture, and cruel and inhumane treatment, according to the Belarusian human rights organization Viasna.

Tsikhanouskaya concedes the democratic movement she leads has likely lost focus on nurturing their relationship with Lithuania in lieu of courting bigger friends.

President Bidens hosting of Tsikhanouskaya in 2021 was a very warm meeting, she said, even as she explained she was intimidated by the power of the president of the United States.

He understood the situation in Belarus, she said, and told her that America supports the movement for democratic change in the country.

Maybe Belarus is not priority for U.S.A. because of course with China, Russia, all these big countries, but still we feel a lot of attention to our cause, she said, emphasizing the intertwined fates of Belarus and Ukraine.

In the same way, she is concerned Americas partisan politics over Ukraine could have blowback on Belarus.

Ive heard that there are Republicans who are against supporting Ukraine. But it is important to understand that not helping the countries who are fighting with the aggression.  Its like cancer, if you dont stop this disease at the root, it will spread further and further, she said.

Belarus is part of our original crisis, yes we have different context of course with Ukraine, but we are fighting with the same enemy, the imperialistic ambitions of Russia, its very aggressive in Ukraine, its like creeping in Belarus.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Francisco Benitez, center, hugs family members after walking out of Cook County Jail on Aug. 29, 2023 after a judge vacated his conviction after 34 years in prison. (Trent Sprague/Chicago Tribune)

A judge on Tuesday overturned decades-old murder conviction in the shooting deaths of two 14-year-old boys in 1989, eliciting cheers from a packed courtroom.

Francisco Benitez, 52, maintained his innocence in a motion for post-conviction relief, referencing that he had an alibi for the April 28, 1989, killings of Prudencio Cruz and William Sanchez near the corner of Potomac and Harding avenues on the citys West Side and pointing to witnesses who identified different suspects.

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This is not normal, said Joshua Tepfer, one of Benitezs attorneys, of the volume of overturned convictions in Cook County. Its an epidemic. Its a human rights violation.

Judge Sophia Atcherson vacated the conviction during a hearing at the Leighton Criminal Court Building, citing evidence pointing to Benitezs innocence presented during a hearing earlier this year. Cook County prosecutors did not drop the charges and asked for time to review the case, so Benitez still faces murder charges in the teens deaths.

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Betty Benitez, mother of Francisco Benitez, whos conviction was vacated, is emotional as she talks with reporters at the Leighton Criminal Courthouse in Chicago on Aug. 29, 2023. (Antonio Perez/Chicago Tribune)

Meanwhile, Atcherson allowed Benitez to be released on a personal recognizance bond and electronic monitoring, meaning he did not have to put up money for release. She said she took the serious nature of charges into account, but also the new evidence brought forth in the post-conviction hearings.

She also declined to order monetary bail, citing the new law abolishing cash bail set to take effect next month. The Illinois Supreme Court in July ruled that the measure meant to foster equity in the criminal justice system does not violate the state constitution.

Even though the law has not gone into effect, I think it would be disingenuous for the court to set monetary bond at this point, she said.

Family members in the gallery yelled Hallelujah! as Atcherson read her decision. After the hearing, Benitezs mother Betty Benitez tearfully said shes happy to have her son back.

Its been a long road, she said.

Benitez, who was 18 years old when Cruz and Sanchez were killed, has spent 34 years in prison.

Afternoon Briefing Weekdays Chicago Tribune editors' top story picks, delivered to your inbox each afternoon. By submitting your email to receive this newsletter, you agree to our Subscriber Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy >

His motion for post-conviction relief described the two victims as churchgoing kids who were steps from their home on the way to the corner store.

Their deaths are a tragedy, the motion said. When Francisco Benitez was wrongfully arrested, charged, and convicted of that heinous crime, another tragedy occurred.

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Francisco Benitez, center, walks out of Cook County Jail on Aug. 29, 2023 after a judge vacated his conviction after 34 years in prison. (Trent Sprague/Chicago Tribune)

The motion argues that Benitez was with family friends at the time of the shooting, and that witnesses came forward to point the finger at different suspects, members of a street gang that controlled the street. The witnesses signed sworn statements that said they were sitting on a radiator in the front window of their apartment and watched the men, whom they knew, walk toward the boys and kill them.

In overturning the convictions, Atcherson said the eyewitness testimony was first and foremost in the courts mind.

Further, the defense attorneys presented testimony from a former Chicago gang officer who said in a sworn statement: (T)his is the one case in my entire Chicago Police Dept career that has bothered me and think we got the wrong guy.

The motion also alleged that the detectives on the case, Jerome Bogucki along with partner, Raymond Schalk, had a history of misconduct, and were found liable by a federal jury of manipulating eyewitness identifications.

mabuckley@chicagotribune.com
The Internal Affairs Ministry of Belarus has been providing new passports to Wagner mercenaries, Belarusian opposition leader Pavel Latushko said in an interview with the Polish Press Agency on Aug. 28.

Latushko, who heads the opposition organization National Anti-Crisis Management (NAM), said that this has been going on for a month.

"Wagner members are receiving Belarusian passports  real documents, but issued in other names," Latushko said. "Thus, they can simply enter the EU through border crossings."

Latushko said that Wagner mercenaries would then be able to "commit sabotage and terrorist attacks" in those countries.

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At an Aug. 28 meeting in Warsaw, officials from Poland, Latvia, and Lithuania said they were considering closing all borders with Belarus in light of the Wagner threat.

Latushko is the former Belarusian ambassador to Poland, and now lives in exile there due to his political opposition to the regime of dictator Alexander Lukashenko .

According to Latushko, several thousand Wagner fighters remain in Belarus. He said that while Lukashenko wants to keep them there, "he does not have sufficient financial resources to maintain a large group of militants."

In a press conference on Aug. 25, Lukashenko announced that 10,000 Wagner soldiers were set to arrive in Belarus in the coming days. The claim stood in stark contrast to reports that members of the private military company were leaving the country in droves due to low pay and the recent death of commander Yevgeny Prigozhin.

Read also: Belarus Weekly: Lukashenko says Russian invasion of Ukraine through Belarus was unexpected

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
The Scene

PROVIDENCE, R.I.  The race for a safe Democratic seat here is heading toward a chaotic finish, after a campaign of old grievances, new scandals, and frank talk about whether the states representation is too white and male.

All of that played out on Sunday, when Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders campaigned to rally progressive voters behind 33-year old ex-legislator Aaron Regunberg  just as Don Carlson, a wealthy novice whod put at least $600,000 into his own campaign, was quitting the race after a report on inappropriate messages hed sent to a former student.

That set up the contrast Regunberg wanted, between Democrats who wanted power and people like him  an activist/legislator whod fought for healthcare and higher wages, when corporations and corporate lobbyists said it was impossible.

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This is the kind of district that can support a lot more than just one more Democratic vote, said Regunberg. This is a district that can support someone whos actually going to organize up there.

As Sanders spoke to 1000 people at the Columbus Theatre, a truck circled outside with an electronic billboard, paid for by a fringe candidate, attacking him for NOT supporting a progressive woman and NOT supporting a person of color. Sanders and Regunberg spoke only after female, progressive allies talked about how the candidate helped pass an array of paid leave and wage bills, while convincing them to run for office.

Why am I, a black Afro-Latina woman, supporting Aaron, over other people of color who are running? said state Rep. Leonela Felix. The answer is very simple. More than identity politics, Rhode Island needs a champion who will fight to ensure that families not only survive, but that they thrive.

Davids view

The Sep. 5 primary offers progressives their only chance of gaining ground in Congress this year. Its a tricky moment for their movement, which has struggled to find its footing  and funding  in the Biden era.

Progressives scored a massive victory in Chicago this year, when  with the help of Sanders  Brandon Johnson won a close mayoral race. But national politics have been less rewarding for the left recently.

Justice Democrats, founded to elect anti-corporate candidates in safe blue districts, has shed staff after a disappointing 2022 cycle, when massive spending from Democratic Majority for Israel sunk some of its candidates and drained its resources. Its yet to endorse a candidate in this cycle, and has stayed out of the Sep. 5 special election, which seems to fit their usual criteria for blue-to-bluer targets  Biden won the Providence-based 1st District by 29 points and the GOP is not seriously contesting the seat.

In Rhode Island, progressives who took power from the states old guard have often been distracted by infighting, with multiple former legislators denouncing Regunberg in bitter, personal terms as an entitled tryhard. One former state senator called him a product of a greedy, power hungry, patriarchal extractor and colonizer-designed system that raised up problematic progressive men.

Everybody has the right to their own opinion, said state Sen. Linda Ujifusa, whos supporting Regunberg. But my feeling is that its much more important to stick to the issues, and agree or disagree with someone on that basis.

Regunbergs comeback bid  he lost an insurgent 2018 primary for lieutenant governor by a few thousand votes  gained traction as an early favorite stumbled. Lt. Gov. Sabina Matos , a 49-year old immigrant from the Dominican Republic, picked up endorsements from EMILYs List, the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, and labor unions that had backed her 2022 campaign.

Then Matos spent weeks dealing with questions about signature gatherers who appeared to have forged names to get her on the ballot. A poll for former White House intergovernmental affairs liaison Gabe Amo, released to media outlets last week, showed Regunberg ahead, Amo gaining behind him, and Matos in a dead heat with state Sen. Sandra Cano, an immigrant from Colombia and competitor for the Latino vote.

The worst is over, Matos told a supporter at a Sunday afternoon folk music festival in the district. She told another supporter that it was important to vote for womens rights, implying that there would not be another good chance to change the make-up of the states delegation. We have an opportunity now that we wont have again for 10 to 20 years, Matos said.

Amos parents immigrated to the U.S. from west Africa, a story told in speeches and TV ads that emphasize how a kid from Pawtucket came to work for two presidents. Cano has run to the left of Matos and Amo; like Rugenberg, she supports Medicare-for-All and says shed join the Congressional Progressive Caucus. But shes also highlighted her story and her potential to make history if elected, to distinguish herself from the field.

I understand firsthand how our teachers, our nurses, and our care professionals really need support, said Cano. I work with them. I pass legislation with them. Ive been at pickets with them.

In an interview, Matos emphasized that the state had never sent a Democratic woman to Congress. Supporting her, she said, could empower someone that has the experience of so many Rhode Islanders, of working in a factory, or of an immigrant coming to the country and struggling to learn the language.

Regunberg had faced setbacks, too; his father was killed in a plane crash before he was born. But his family ties have helped him in a crowded race, and in multiple ways. His uncle, Illinois Rep. Brad Schneider, is a stalwart defender of Israel, and in an interview with Jewish Insider, Regunberg called the suburban congressman someone that I am often leaning on for expertise and thoughts.

That relationship helped prevent an intervention from the groups that have pummeled other progressive candidates; one Democratic strategist working on the race joked that the movement needed more candidates whose uncle is Brad Schneider.

But Regunbergs family also became an issue after his father-in-law and mother gave a combined $130,000 to Progress Rhode Island, a super PAC supporting him  and after he claimed, incorrectly, that his campaign did not have a red box of suggested messages, designed to help independent groups by avoiding official, illegal coordination.

Matos filed an ethics complaint, and the super PAC distraction has given Regunbergs rivals a closing message, especially given the critical importance his corner of the left has placed on campaign finance reform.

Asked about campaigning for a candidate with a super PAC, Sanders pivoted to talk about his long-term goal of clean elections.

I think we should eliminate all super PACs for everybody, he said. I think we should overturn Citizens United, and move to public funding of elections.

Regunbergs rivals, who havent turned down PAC money, have another idea. Reform would start with beating this guy.

I dont have wealth, or a family thats going to do a super PAC for me, said Cano.

Rhode Islanders just want someone to be honest with them, said Amo. If youre going to say, I want to play by certain rules, I want everybody to play by them, then you should play by them, too. Thats whats really important. And thats ultimately whats missing from Aarons response.

Onstage with Sanders, Regunberg did talk about his family  about his young son, and the combination of hope and anger he felt when he thought about saving the planet from corporate greed.

If everyone in this theater talked to three of their friends  man, theres not enough corporate lobbyists and corporate PAC money out there to stop us.

The View From Voters

Matteo Marano, 56, said that he got behind Regunberg early on, seeing the competition as a lot of corporate Democratic candidates. And as a member of Democratic Socialists of America, he wondered if some progressives were making a mistake by brawling among themselves instead of backing someone they largely agreed with.

Theres a vision within the DSA, in Providence for sure, that it needs to be oppositional, he said. I feel like if you find a good candidate whos aligned with what you want, with 80% or 90% of what you believe, thats the candidate you should go for.

Notable

In Roll Call, Daniela Altimari looked at how the primary was testing which version of the Democratic Party could triumph in deep blue territory.

And in The Messenger, Matt Holt investigated just how bizarre some of the infighting had become.
Coastal California has no shortage of breathtaking beaches that are perfect for a sunny getaway, but a handful of cities stand above them all, according to a new ranking from a national travel publication.

Just in time to get one last summer beach trip in before the leaves changes colors and temperatures begin to drop, Trips To Discover as published its ranking of the 20 Best Beach Towns in America.

This is the best California town to visit for Christmas

The online travel website named four California cities among the best beach towns for 2023, including a lesser-known gem located just up the 101.

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Santa Cruz, Carmel-by-the-Sea and Pescadero were all among the towns to receive the honor, but Southern Californias very own Carpinteria was the only SoCal destination to crack the list.

Carpinteria is located in southern Santa Barbara County, about 90 minutes from downtown Los Angeles. Its known for its pristine beaches, picturesque mountain views and charming small town vibe.

A view of Carpinteria, California and the coast, looking south from the hills above Montecito. (Getty Images)

La Carpinteria translates to The Carpenter Shop and was first used by the soldiers of the Gaspar de Portola Exhibition in 1769, according to the citys website. Carpinteria is a major agriculture hub on the coast, known for its flowers, avocados and (recently) cannabis.

Tourism is also a major boon to the economy, and if youve ever taken the time to stop in Carp, youll understand why.

Carpinteria City Beach is boasted as the Worlds Safest Beach, and a California state beach of the same name is located nearby. Santa Claus Beach is a favorite among surfers and Rincon Point, home to the Rincon Classic surfing competition, is just a short drive south.

Trips To Discover calls Carpinterias beaches quintessential Southern California with relaxed pace, mild weather and wide sandy beaches.

Airbnb data reveals top destination for family bookings in California, U.S.

While mornings can be foggy, that can make for a perfect time to enjoy the pleasures of Linden Avenue, shaded by palm trees and lined with cafes, galleries, and clothing stores, the travel website writes. Enjoy breakfast at Esaus Cafe, renowned for its fantastic chile relleno omelet, and when its time for lunch, stop for a burger at The Spot.

Carpinteria is eclectic and artsy and despite its close proximity to bustling cities and its reputation as among one of the best communities in the world, its one of Californias few remaining beach communities that hasnt lost its original flavor.

To see the complete list of cities named as Americas best beach towns, click here.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA.
Finding a great Polish sausage in Chicago is like spotting a W flag when the Cubs win or a pothole on Western Avenue: comically easy.

Explaining precisely what a Chicago-style Polish sausage is takes a little more time.

Despite the name, you wont find one inside Chicagos many great Polish sausage shops, like Andys Deli or Kurowskis Sausage Shop. There youll encounter dozens of kinds of kielbasa, a term that simply means sausage in Polish. While you can pick up kielbasa surowa, a pale fresh sausage, or kielbasa weselna, a twice-smoked sausage, neither place serves what most Chicagoans expect on a bun. Instead, these sausages are made with solely pork and are on the milder side.

Chicagoans favor an aggressively seasoned, coarsely ground sausage thats stuffed into a natural casing with an epic amount of garlic and then smoked. Usually, its made of a mix of pork and beef, though not universally. Most restaurants griddle it on a flat-top to crisp up the casing, though some prefer a level of crisp attainable only by dunking it in a deep fryer. Placed in a bun, the sausage is traditionally served with a swipe of yellow mustard, a heaping pile of soft sauteed onions, and a few spicy pickled chiles.

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To say Chicago had a lot of Polish immigrants in the early 20th century is an understatement. According to Polish Chicago: Our History, Our Recipes by Joseph W. Zurawski, there were nearly 425,000 Polish residents in the city by 1928, representing its largest ethnic group and about 15% of the total population.

These immigrants brought along their traditional foodways, including their penchant for sausage-making. By then, some were already well established; 1918 proved to be a particularly fruitful year, when Mike Mikolajczyk started a sausage shop that would eventually become Andys Deli, and Joseph P. Slotkowski opened Slotkowskis Sausage Company. (Remember the last one.)

Yet, it took an immigrant from a different part of Europe to help popularize the Polish sausage Chicagoans know and devour today.

Jim Stefanovic was born in the town of Gostivar in 1901, which is currently located in the country of Macedonia. (When he was born, it was actually part of the Ottoman Empire, before becoming part of Yugoslavia.) Stefanovic left Europe in 1939 for Chicago and quickly found himself hawking taffy apples at the Maxwell Street Market, the citys largest outdoor market.

Stefanovic got a job at his aunts hot dog stand at the northwest corner of Maxwell Street and Halsted Avenue. According to Stefanovics grandson, Jim Christopoulos, he bought the stand from his aunt, renamed it Jims, and looked to differentiate it from a crowded field. At first, he was just selling hot dogs, but he wanted something new, Christopoulos said. So he went to Slotkowskis and had them make a sausage for him. Then he added the sauteed onions and mustard. Thats how it started.

While this sausage had many characteristics of traditional Polish sausages, particularly kielbasa zwyczajna, The Chicago Food Encyclopedia notes the new creation also had similarities to a hot dog, but with larger-diameter hog casings and more aggressive spicing.

This sausage became such a hit, copycat operations popped up. Express Grill, which is currently located right next to Jims Original, was actually started by one of Stefanovics nephews. Eventually, the Polish sausage became so synonymous with the market, the dish became known as a Maxwell Street Polish. Even after the area was cleared to make way for the expansion of the University of Illinois at Chicago, youll still find dozens of restaurants scattered around the city serving strikingly similar menus, all with Maxwell Street in their names.

Where are these Maxwell Street Polish sausages coming from? Most restaurants are tight-lipped about their sources. Christopoulos gladly told me that Jims Original started with Slotkowskis and then moved to Bobaks, but he now has a different provider that he didnt want to name. (Most of the stand owners said they simply didnt want their competitors to know.)

I do know several places use sausage from Makowskis Real Sausage Company in the Bridgeport neighborhood. But the number of businesses making excellent Polish sausages is long, including Vienna Beef, Bobak Sausage Co., Harczaks Sausage Company, Slotkowski Sausage Co., Ashland Sausage Co., Crawford Sausage Co. and many more. (Soon, Ill have a post where I taste test them all.)

If Ive learned anything from eating dozens of Polish sausages, its that, like Chicagos best hot dogs, a natural casing is crucial. A skinless Polish sausage lacks the assertive snap, tasting wimpy and frail. Also, the best ones tend to have some beef in the mix. A pork-only Polish sausage doesnt quite stand out on a bun, tasting better when served on a plate.

Here are my favorite places to score a Maxwell Street Polish sausage in Chicago.

Jims Original

Its hard to beat the original. A Polish sausage at Jims always has a pleasingly crisp casing that gives way to an incredibly juicy and garlicky interior. Thanks to the piles of onions sauteing on the flat-top, waves of sweet and pungent aromas swirl around your head. A couple of pickled chiles on the side lend both a sharp heat and acidity.

One reason Jims is always so good is you never have to worry about sausages hanging around for too long. No matter the hour, theres always a crowd. I know half of our business is Polish sausage, owner Jim Christopoulos said, estimating that the original location (a second opened last year) serves 500 to 1,000 each day. Over the years weve sold hundreds of thousands, maybe millions of Polish sausages.

1250 S. Union Ave., 312-733-7820; 2775 N. Elston Ave., 872-206-5279; jimsoriginal.com

Lazic Deli

If youre looking to try a Polish sausage straight from the source, visit Lazic Deli in Norwood Park. It shares the same owners and building as Harczaks Sausage Company, which Mike Harczak opened in the late 1950s. Current owner Aleks Lazic continues the fine sausage-making tradition with the Maxwell Street Polish sausage. Each one gets a brief dip in a deep fryer to crisp up the casing, before finishing up on the grill. Its served in a large roll with yellow mustard, sauteed onions, and, Im happy to report, giardiniera.

7035 W. Higgins Ave., 773-631-8400, lazicdeli.com

Fixin Franks at Home Depot

Inside approximately 17 Home Depot locations, youll find a tiny hot dog stand by the exit called Fixin Franks. Owned by Conley Shirley, the stand immediately attracts attention for serving phenomenal Polish sausages from Makowskis. While you can get one topped with the standard yellow mustard, sauteed onions and pickled chiles, what you really want is the JPG Maxwell Street Polish. This collaboration with the excellent Italian grocery store J.P. Grazianos adds crunchy, spicy giardiniera on top. This turns out to be an excellent addition, one that Id love to see picked up by more places around town.

Multiple locations, instagram.com/fixinfranks

Flub a Dub Chubs

If youre eating an all-beef Polish sausage, then you are undoubtedly trying one from Vienna Beef. Extensive testing left me with the conclusion that most places go with the skinless version, which doesnt have the crisp casing I crave. Fortunately, there are still several places that serve the natural casing version. My favorite can be found at Flub A Dub Chubs, the tiny subterranean hot dog stand in Lakeview. The sausage develops black char marks from the grill, lending each beefy bite a smoky edge.

3021 N. Broadway, 773-857-6500, flubadubchub.com

Kimski

The vast majority of Polish sausages in Chicago automatically come with yellow mustard, sauteed onions and pickled chiles. The best exception is Marias Standard at Kimski. It may start with a plump Polish sausage, scored slightly on top to crisp up while grilling, but then comes mustard spiked with soju, the clear Korean alcohol. On top is a sprinkle of scallions and a whole heap of bright purple kraut-chi, a Kimski creation fusing sauerkraut and kimchi. Even the bun is different. Instead of the regular squishy offering, Kimki uses an extra plush and buttery brioche bun made by Spoke and Bird. Hopefully, this fantastic creation will inspire more chefs to experiment with the sausage.

954 W. 31st St., 773-823-7336, kimskichicago.net

Kaiser Tiger

Looking to branch out from the standard sauteed onions and yellow mustard? Check out this beer and sausage stop in the West Loop. Here, the Polish sausages come with spicy horseradish mustard and just enough sauerkraut to add a tang to each bite. The sausage itself has an incredibly crisp casing, before giving way to the juicy interior.

1415 W. Randolph St.; 312-243-3100; kaisertiger.com

Portillos

Most restaurants were extremely hesitant to let me know where they sourced their Polish sausages. But not Portillos. The chains website proudly declares that it uses Makowskis for its chargrilled Maxwell Street Polish sausage. The shop may use a poppy-seed bun for its version, but otherwise sticks to the traditional Maxwell Street toppings of yellow mustard, sauteed onions and, if youd like, a few sport peppers.

Multiple locations; portillos.com

All of restaurants with Maxwell Street in their name

In Chicago, adding Maxwell Street to your restaurants name signals certain things. First, itll specialize in Polish sausages, with hot dogs, burgers and pork chop sandwiches in a secondary role. Second, everything will be topped with sweet sauteed onions, mustard and pickled chiles. Third, you can forget about a dining room, though there may be a metal counter to stand next to.

One week I decided to eat at as many of them as I could, crisscrossing the city, from the West Side all the way down to suburban Dolton. And you know what? All of them were pretty great. While the fries ranged wildly in quality, the Polish sausages served at all of these restaurants were uniformly excellent. Essentially, if you see Maxwell Street in the name, youre probably in luck.

Maxwell Street Depot, 411 W. 31st St., 312-326-3514

The Original Maxwell Street, 3801 W. Harrison St., 773-940-2270, theoriginalmaxwellstreet.com

Chicagos Original Maxwell Street, 5304 S. Western Ave., 605-313-0713

Maxwell Street Express, 7901 S. Wentworth Ave., 773-952-7655

Maxwell Street Polish 79th Street Grill, 7901 S. Chicago Ave., 773-768-3976

Maxwell Street Polish, 7445 S. State St.

J.J. Sausage Maxwell Street, 1320 Sibley Blvd., Dolton; 708-896-6520

nkindelsperger@chicagotribune.com
Bexley High School was named the best high school in Ohio according to the U.S. News & World Report rankings released Tuesday.

Bexley High School was named the best high school in Ohio, according to U.S. News & World Report rankings released Tuesday.

Ohio's top five high schools, according to the magazine, are:

Bexley High School was named the best high school in Ohio, according to U.S. News & World Report rankings released Tuesday. The school also cracked the top 200 of schools nationally, coming in No. 121.

Bexley High named top high school in state

Bexley High School was named the top high school in Ohio, the only high school for the district of just under 2,500 students.

Schools are ranked on their performance on state-required tests, graduation and how well they prepare students for college, according to the magazine. Based on these metrics, Bexley High School scored 99.32 out of 100.

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The school also cracks the top 200 of schools nationally, coming in at No. 121.

Bexley Superintendent Jason Fine said that the district is proud to have been named the top school, saying "academic excellence is a long-standing tradition in our community, and the experience we offer goes far beyond test scores and graduation rates."

"We place a high value on the journey our students are on as individuals to discover their passions and develop the ability to learn with curiosity, demonstrate kindness, and embrace equity," Fine said.

Two Olentangy high schools in state's top 20

Olentangy Local Schools also had two high schools in the top 20 high schools in the state.

Olentangy Liberty was ranked No. 9 in Ohio, and No. 333 nationally and Olentangy High School was ranked No. 13 in Ohio and No. 392 nationally.

Dublin Jerome High School, part of Dublin City Schools, was ranked Np. 12 in the state and Np. 389 nationally.

Top high schools in Greater Columbus

U.S. News & World Report also ranks districts by metropolitan area. In the central Ohio area, every Olentangy Local Schools high school made the top 10 list.

The top high schools in the Columbus area are:

Bexley High School Olentangy Liberty High School Dublin Jerome High School Olentangy High School Granville High School Olentangy Berlin High School Olentangy Orange High School New Albany High School Columbus Alternative High School Upper Arlington High School

All rankings can be found on the U.S. News & World Report website.

@Colebehr_report

Cbehrens@dispatch.com

This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: This central Ohio school was just named top high school in the state
It is not your average hurricane story when Granma, Cubas Communist Party newspaper, quotes the Bible.

But the heavy rain that Idalia, now a Category 1 hurricane, has been pouring over Western Cuba on Monday night and Tuesday, leaving residents in several towns wading in knee-high water and small rural communities incommunicado, prompted a reference to the Great Flood.

Idalia strengthened as a hurricane soon after its center passed very close to Cape San Antonio, the islands westernmost tip in Pinar del Rio province, around 9 p.m. on Monday. A weather station there reported hurricane wind gusts of 78 miles per hour. But Cuban meteorologists warned the worst was still to come from Idalias spiral rain bands and the storm surges later Tuesday before the hurricane moves to hit Florida next.

Cubans in the province of Pinar del Rio, Granma said, quoting the book of Genesis 7:11, woke up on Tuesday morning with the sensation that all the fountains of the great deep burst forth, and the windows of the heavens were opened.

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Images shared by local media outlets and foreign news agencies show people being evacuated from flooded homes, downed trees, damaged buildings, and streets covered by water in several towns in Pinar del Rio and nearby Artemisa.

An image of the destruction left by hurricane Idalia in Sandino, a municipality in Pinar del Rio, Cuba.

Residents in Playa Guanimar, in Alquizar, had to be quickly evacuated because of coastal flooding on Monday afternoon. The Cuyaguateje River in Pinar del Rio overflowed its banks and left residents in rural communities in the Guane municipality incommunicado.

Eighty percent of residents in Pinar del Rio, over 117,000 in Artemisa and more than 40,000 in the capital, Havana, have no electricity, the state electricity company said. In some areas of Artemisa, phone lines and wifi were also down.

Bands of rain were still trashing Cape San Antonio on Tuesday morning. Local authorities said the storm flooded the area, and the 63 residents who spent the night at a weather radar station facility were still there.

So far, there are no reports of fatalities and little information on damages to housing and agriculture. Local newspaper Guerrillero published images of banana trees downed by the storm in a cooperative in Los Palacios, in Pinar del Rio. Previously, authorities said they were working to safeguard 18,000 tons of tobacco in that province.

Isabel Rubio, a town in Pinar del Rio, was flooded by the river Cuyaguateje, which overflowed its banks due to the torrential rain brought by hurricane Idalia.

Cuban state media has shown local authorities busy traveling to the affected areas as the coverage highlighted that the government response was swift and well-planned. Granma showed Division General Ramon Pardo Guerra, the head of Cuban Civil Defense, a military agency dealing with weather emergencies and other major events, meeting residents in La Coloma, in Pinar del Rio, a small town battered by Hurricane Ian last year.

Victims of Ian, a much more powerful Category 3 hurricane that also barreled over Western Cuba with catastrophic results, complained that they received little warning and aid from Cuban authorities. A year later, 60,000 houses damaged by Ian have not been repaired or rebuilt.
WASHINGTON  The Biden administration on Tuesday announced a $250 million military aid package for Ukraine that includes equipment to clear Russian minefields that have stalled Ukraines counteroffensive.

The shipment also includes additional ammunition for air defense to counter Russian drones and missiles. The Pentagon will also send artillery shells and three million rounds of small-arms ammunition.

Since Russias invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, the Biden administration has provided more than $43 billion in military aid to Ukraine. Ukrainian troops, using western armored vehicles, trucks and artillery, have made limited gains in taking back Ukrainian territory from Russia.

On Monday, William LaPlante, the Pentagons top weapons buyer, said Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin and Army Gen. Mark Milley, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, consider the effect of each military aid package on the U.S. military readiness.

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So, by definition, if its taken of out of drawdown, the assessments been made (that) we can do it and we can manage the risk, LaPlante said.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Ukraine aid: Biden White House pledges $250 million in military aid
President Biden was personally involved in solving problems at the Kabul airport during the chaotic U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan, directing people on the ground to find ways to get Afghans at risk out of the country, according to an upcoming book.

The first excerpt of Atlantic staff writer Franklin Foer s The Last Politician: Inside Joe Bidens White House and the Struggle for Americas Future was released Tuesday. The excerpt, The Final Days: Joe Biden was determined to get out of Afghanistanno matter the cost, recalls the U.S. troop withdrawal in August 2021.

The books release comes as the country marks the 2-year anniversary of the chaotic withdrawal, one of Bidens first major foreign policy moves as president. House Republicans have been investigating the withdrawal, which they dubbed disastrous.

Foer wrote that as the U.S. pushed to evacuate Americans and others in Kabul, Biden would pepper former Ambassador to Afghanistan John Bass with ideas for squeezing more evacuees through the gates. Bass was called on by the State Department to lead the evacuation effort in Kabul.

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The presidents instinct was to throw himself into the intricacies of troubleshooting. Why dont we have them meeting in parking lots? Cant we leave the airport and pick them up? Foer wrote.

The book also recalls that Biden himself and national security adviser Jake Sullivan were flooded with requests from Americans to help certain people in Afghanistan, with some claiming that if Sullivan didnt do anything, their deaths would be on his hands.

Throughout late August, the president himself was fielding requests to help stranded Afghans, from friends and members of Congress. Biden became invested in individual cases. Three buses of women at the Kabul Serena Hotel kept running into logistical obstacles, Foer wrote. He told Sullivan, I want to know what happens to them. I want to know when they make it to the airport.

When the president heard these stories, he would become engrossed in solving the practical challenge of getting people to the airport, mapping routes through the city, Foer wrote.

After the hectic images out of the airport surfaced, Biden told the situation room to fill planes with evacuees and especially focus on what the administration deemed Afghans at risk, including reporters, teachers and the girls robotics team that would all be targets under the Taliban, the book details.

Foer wrote that in the caricature version of Joe Biden that had persisted for decades, he was highly sensitive to shifts in opinion but that the criticism of the withdrawal caused him to justify the chaos as the inevitable consequence of a difficult decision.

So much of the commentary felt overheated to him. He said to an aide: Either the press is losing its mind, or I am, he wrote of Biden.

After the remains of troops were sent to Dover Air Force Base, when Biden was told to burn in hell by a family member of one of the 13 fallen service members in Kabul, the president reportedly asked then-White House press secretary Jen Psaki if he should have handled everything differently.

The book described that Biden was exhibiting determination, even stubbornness despite the criticism over the withdrawal and that he could be detached, even icy, when confronted with the prospect of human suffering. It outlined Bidens background on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, but also as typically the empathic politician.

Scranton Joes deep reserves of compassion were directed at people with whom he felt a connection; his visceral ties were with American soldiers. When he thought about the militarys rank and file, he couldnt help but project an image of his own late son, Beau, Foer wrote.

In the lead up to the withdrawal, the White House had plans for catastrophic scenarios, which had been practices in tabletop simulations, according to Foer, but no one anticipated that they would be needed.

The Biden team thought the Afghan military could hold off the Taliban for months and there was a strongly held belief inside the State Department that the embassy in Kabul would remain open after Aug. 31, 2021 and not have as robust a staff, but include some aid programs, according to Foer.

On Aug. 14 that year, the book recalls Blinken calling then-president of Afghanistan Ashraf Ghani about what might happen if the Taliban invaded Kabul before the end of that month. Ghani told Blinken, Id rather die than surrender.

But, when Sullivan relayed the news to Biden that Ghani had in fact fled the country, Biden exploded in frustration: Give me a break.

The book recalls that just before the withdrawal, the White House was emptying out for summer vacations, which are typical in August. Foer wrote that at the time, there was talk of Secretary of State Antony Blinken flying to Doha, Qatar, to preside over the signing of an accord that would wheedle the two warring sides in Afghanistan into an agreement that included the Taliban.

Instead, Foer writes, Bidens inner circle could see that the legacy of the month would stalk them into the next election and perhaps into their obituaries.

Foers book is an insider account of Bidens first two years in office and is set to release in a week. It is made up of almost 300 interviews between November 2020 and February 2023, according to Politico.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Chris Anchor, senior wildlife biologist at the Forest Preserve District of Cook County, draws blood from a snapping turtle before attaching a transmitter at McGinnis Field Station in Orland Park on Oct. 4, 2018. In the 40 years that Ive been with the district, I have never handled a coydog or a coywolf or a dogwolf, Anchor said. (Zbigniew Bzdak/Chicago Tribune)

Its a bird! Its a plane! Its a coyote-wolf hybrid?

The answer is highly unlikely, wildlife experts say after Burr Ridge police warned residents of possible coywolf sightings last week in the southwest suburb. Theres no evidence that the hybrid scientists call the eastern coyote live in Illinois, according to the Urban Coyote Research Programs findings. Rather, western coyotes are dominant in the state.

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Far more likely would be if someone were to have a wolfdog hybrid that got loose, because for some reason people feel compelled to have a wolfdog hybrid, which is a very, very dangerous animal, said Chris Anchor, a senior wildlife biologist at the Forest Preserve District of Cook County. You can imagine something with the power and skittishness of a wild wolf, and yet it would have some of the domesticated behaviors of a dog.

On Friday, the Police Department said it was investigating resident reports of potential coywolf sightings in neighborhoods near 83rd Street and County Line Road. The warning said the animal is about 55 pounds heavier than a typical coyote, with elongated legs, a more pronounced jaw, smaller ears and a bushier tail. It also said that the animal can resemble a German shepherd.

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To ensure your safety and that of your pets, we strongly advise against attempting to approach this animal, the warning said.

Deputy Chief Marc Loftus said the initial report came in from a resident who took his dog out at about 2 a.m. and saw what could have been a coywolf. Loftus said the man waved his arm to scare the animal away, but looked at his home surveillance system later and saw two animals come back later in the morning. Loftus said the department sent out the warning out of caution to protect other pets out at night.

As of Tuesday, Loftus said a couple other people have reported seeing something that resembles a coywolf. Loftus acknowledged that the department couldnt know if its a coywolf without capturing it and conducting genetic testing, but because the resident said it was larger than a typical coyote, they wanted to warn others just in case.

It was worth sharing just so people are aware that theres some animal out there that looks like a dog, looks like a coyote, Loftus said.

Anchor said its impossible to tell a coywolf, coydog or wolfdog hybrid apart by sight without genetic testing. Anchor helps lead the Urban Coyote Research Program, a study of coyotes in the Chicago metro area started in 2000.

In the 40 years that Ive been with the district, I have never handled a coydog or a coywolf or a dogwolf, Anchor said. Ive seen dog wolves that people had as pets in the area, but Ive never handled one.

The name coywolf is completely misleading, Anchor said. He said the name implies that one parent is a wolf and one parent is a coyote, but in reality eastern coyotes  the name scientists use  only have a small amount of wolf genes.

Anchor said coyotes were essentially wiped out in northern Illinois in 1900 because of agriculture, but in the late 1970s and early 1980s they reestablished themselves in the lower Great Lakes basin, which includes Chicagoland. When coyotes first showed up in the area, Anchor said, there were a limited number of mates, so they could have bred with dogs or wolves if they were available.

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While dogs were common, Anchor said there were no wolves in the area.

There would not have been coywolves, Anchor said. There would have been a lack of wolves to breed with.

In fact, Anchor said theres so many coyotes in northern Illinois that they rarely breed with dogs, because theres no reason for them to breed to another species. One survey conducted by the Illinois Natural History Survey from 2013 through 2017 estimated that theres an average annual harvest of about 85,000 coyotes, representing just a fraction of the total coyote population.

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But he said people can buy wolfdog hybrids, even though they are illegal to possess in Illinois. Anchor said these animals can be unsafe if they are in close contact with people, and that owners often have to get rid of them because they attack children or a neighbor.

According to the International Wolf Center, the behavior of hybrids is difficult to predict because of diversity of genetic composition. If they are kept in conditions that are inadequate to their mental and physical needs such as living in small cages or tied to chains, there is a safety risk for humans.

Gary Grasso, mayor of Burr Ridge, said his wife saw an unusual animal in their backyard that appeared a bit bigger with a bushier tail than a typical coyote about two weeks prior to the police warning going out. But he said he doesnt have any photographs so theres no way to confirm it was a coywolf, and they didnt report the sighting to the police.

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We didnt even think about it until we got a notice, Grasso said. Somebody saw it in the southern part of the village further south from where we live. But again, we really cant verify that theres a coywolf or what it is.

Regardless of what animal Burr Ridge residents might have seen, Anchor recommends that people dont feed it. He said the normal social behaviors of canines, such as foxes and coyotes, break down when people feed them and they start looking at humans, particularly young children, as food.

Particularly during the breeding season and pupping season, which generally occurs between February and May, the coyotes get very territorial, Anchor said. And in many cases, they may look at your pets as interlopers into their territory and view them as a threat.

rjohnson@chicagotribune.com
(Bloomberg) -- Presidents Joe Biden and Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva will call for improved working conditions in the US and Brazil at a joint event in New York on the sidelines of next months United Nations General Assembly, according to Brazilian Labor Minister Luiz Marinho .

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Marinho said in an interview with Bloomberg News on Monday that the leaders will launch a kind of manifesto calling attention to the need to improve labor relations, that would touch on work environments and pay.

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The meeting is scheduled to take place on Sept. 19, after both presidents address the General Assembly, according to people from the Brazilian government familiar with the plans, who requested anonymity to discuss them.

Biden and Lula, as his Brazilian counterpart is commonly known, are at odds over issues including Russias war in Ukraine and relations with China. But Brazilian authorities have cast the leaders as being in lockstep in their support for unions in their countries.

Read More: Biden Says Hes Talking to UAW, Worried About Possible Strike

Biden has cast himself as the most pro-union president in US history and taken steps to strengthen labor unions, a key part of his electoral coalition in the 2024 election.

The presidents last spoke by phone on Aug. 16 when they discussed common goals on climate and other issues. Biden hosted Lula at the White House in February.

The meeting comes as Brazil is working with allies to grow the influence of the BRICS group. Last week, leaders from Brazil, Russia, China and South Africa agreed to expand the group by inviting Saudi Arabia, Iran, Egypt, Argentina, Ethiopia and the United Arab Emirates to join. The move is a bid to broaden the global influence of the group of emerging market nations, bringing together many of the worlds largest energy producers with the developing worlds biggest consumers.

During the summit, Brazils government also proposed a plan to Argentina that would use the yuan to guarantee export payments in order to bypass cash shortages and keep trade flowing.

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Borrowers eager to see President Joe Bidens new plans for widespread student loan forgiveness will have to wait a bit longer.

After the Supreme Court knocked down Bidens earlier proposal for wiping out student loan debt, the administration turned to a different process for mass forgiveness allowed under the federal Higher Education Act.

The so-called negotiated rulemaking process, or neg reg, however, can be lengthy, involving a committee of stakeholders who must unanimously agree on a policy proposal. If they dont find that consensus, the Education Department can create its own proposal.

But all of that could take months or years for the policy, in this case student debt forgiveness, to take effect.

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No shortcuts: Biden has another plan for mass student loan forgiveness. It could be excruciatingly long

On Tuesday, the federal Education Department said it is opening the call for people who want to serve on that committee, which will meet starting in October. Specifically, the agency wants the 14-member committee to include:

Four people who are current students and student loan borrowers who have distinct levels of education and experiences at different types of colleges or universities. The Education Department said it is particularly interested in a variety of experiences with student loans and postsecondary education, including attending different types of institutions, receiving a Pell Grant, and borrowing a Parent PLUS loan.

Four people from institutions of higher education, including Historically Black Colleges and Universities and minority serving institutions;

Two members representing state officials and attorneys general;

Two people from civil rights organizations and legal assistance organizations;

One member who is a U.S. military service member or veteran; and

One representative from the Federal Family Education Loan (FFEL) program.

The Education Department will select committee members who are nominated for the post. The nominations can be sent to negregnominations@ed.gov and, the department said, must include clear information about the nominee, their constituency group, resume and experience and contact information. Those nominations have to be received by Sept. 14.

Updated information on this negotiated rulemaking committee will be available online.

Once members are selected, the committee is scheduled to meet virtually Oct. 10-11, Nov. 6-7 and Dec. 11-12 to discuss ideas for regulatory reform. The Education Department said the meetings will be open to the public and include opportunities for public comment.

5 takeaways from the first day of Biden's new student loan forgiveness plan is underway

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Biden student loan forgiveness plan awaits input from experts, borrowers
President Biden on Tuesday said his administration has been in constant contact with Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis (R) as the state braces for Hurricane Idalia to make landfall.

Biden elaborated on his call a day earlier with DeSantis during an Oval Office meeting with the Costa Rican president.

Were providing everything he could possibly need. Were in constant contact, Biden told reporters.

Were worried about the surge, the ocean surge. We dont know exactly  hour to hour, were watching this, he continued. But I told the governor, and the mayor of the region thats likely to be hit first, that were there as long as it takes, and well make sure they have everything they need.

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Idalia strengthened into a Category 2 hurricane Tuesday, bringing 100 mph winds and potentially devastating rains and storm surges. The storm is expected to make landfall on Wednesday, and it could impact parts of Georgia and South Carolina as it makes its way up the coast.

Biden approved an emergency declaration for Florida in anticipation of the storm, freeing up additional federal resources for the state to respond to it. FEMA has also deployed personnel and resources to the state, the White House said in a readout of the call.

Evacuation notices have been issued for 21 counties in Florida, eight of them mandatory. According to the Hurricane Center, some storm surges could reach up to 15 feet.

DeSantis is one of Bidens top political rivals, and the Florida governor is seeking the GOP presidential nomination.

The Florida governor has repeatedly excoriated the presidents policies on the campaign trail. During last weeks GOP primary debate, DeSantis took aim frequently at the White House and bemoaned that the country was in decline under Bidens leadership.

But the two have set aside politics in the past, with Biden visiting Florida after a building collapse in 2021 and again meeting with DeSantis and state officials to tour storm damage in the aftermath of Hurricane Ian last year.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
The Education Department announced its latest step in the broad student-debt relief process.

It's seeking nominations for people to participate in negotiating sessions this fall.

The department does not expect a final rule to be posted until next year.

President Joe Biden is moving forward with his new plan for broad student-loan forgiveness.

After the Supreme Court struck down Biden's first plan to cancel student debt broadly for borrowers using the HEROES Act of 2003, his Education Department announced it would be attempting relief using a different law: the Higher Education Act of 1965.

As opposed to the HEROES Act, though, the Higher Education Act requires the administration to go through the negotiated rulemaking process, which could take at least a year because it includes holding public hearings and a series of negotiations to craft the final debt-relief plan. Last month, the department held its public hearing  and on Tuesday, it announced it was seeking nominations for non-federal negotiators to participate in the negotiating sessions beginning in October.

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"When the Supreme Court ruled against the Biden-Harris Administration's student debt relief plan, we did not waste a moment opening up a new pathway to debt relief," the Education Secretary, Miguel Cardona, said in a statement.

"As we pursue debt relief through this process, one of the most important steps is bringing together diverse perspectives to help us craft the strongest possible regulations for borrowers," he continued. "The Student Loan Relief committee will include students, borrowers, state officials, civil rights advocates, representatives from colleges and universities, and other stakeholders so we can make sure all voices are heard and the needs of borrowers are fully considered."

The press release said negotiations would be held virtually on October 10-11, November 6-7, and December 11-12, and they would be open to the public with opportunities for public comment.

Here are the 14 spots the department is seeking nominations for:

Four spots for current students and student-loan borrowers

Four spots for different types of institutions, including Historically Black Colleges and Universities and minority-serving institutions

Two spots for state officials and attorneys general

Two spots for civil-rights organizations and legal-assistance organizations

One spot for a member or veteran of the military service

And one spot for someone from the Federal Family Education Loan program.

Nominations can be emailed to negregnominations@ed.gov by September 14, and they must include which group the nominee falls into, their resume and experience, and contact information. Following the negotiations, the department is set to publish the proposed student-debt relief for public comment and "produce final regulations next year," the press release says.

This latest step comes just days before the student-loan payment pause ends  interest is beginning to accrue again on Friday, with bills becoming due in October. Since borrowers aren't set to enter repayment with broad relief, the department also announced a 12-month "on-ramp" period during which missed payments will not be reported to credit agencies, but interest will still accrue.

Additionally, Biden recently announced $39 billion in debt relief for over 800,000 borrowers due to a one-time account adjustment for borrowers on income-driven repayment plans, and the department is set to evaluate borrowers' accounts every two months to determine others that have met the qualifying 20 or 25 years of payments on those plans for relief.

However, while the department is moving forward with the broad debt-relief process, its future is uncertain due to conservative opposition  and potential legal challenges that could once again halt relief for borrowers.

Read the original article on Business Insider
FILE - The seal of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission at SEC headquarters, June 19, 2015, in Washington. The cryptocurrency fund manager Grayscale won a major court battle Tuesday, Aug. 29, 2023, when the D.C. Court of Appeals ruled in favor of the company in its lawsuit against the Securities and Exchange Commission that will pave the way for the first bitcoin exchange-traded fund. (AP Photo/Andrew Harnik, File) (ASSOCIATED PRESS)

NEW YORK (AP)  The cryptocurrency fund manager Grayscale won a major court battle Tuesday against the Securities and Exchange Commission, paving the way for the first bitcoin exchange-traded fund.

Grayscale sued the SEC last year when the securities regulator denied its application to turn its bitcoin fund, known as GBTC, into an ETF. The ETF would be backed by bitcoin instead of bitcoin futures, according to Grayscale's application at the time.

The SEC rejected the companys application over concerns about investor protections and other issues. However, the District of Columbia Court of Appeals sided with Grayscale, handing the SEC another setback in its attempt to regulate cryptocurrencies.

Bitcoin jumped 8% Tuesday.

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ETFs are a popular vehicle used to gain exposure to certain assets without directly investing in a commodity, or in a company's stock. ETFs track a desired index, sector or commodity, but they can be bought and sold like regular stocks.

Grayscale had argued that a bitcoin ETF would be safer for investors because the bitcoin technology is not able to move as fast as stock-trading technologies.

"This is a historic milestone for American investors, the bitcoin ecosystem, and all those who have been advocating for bitcoin exposure through the added protections of the ETF wrapper, said Grayscale CEO Michael Sonnenshein, in a prepared statement.

Grayscale's win will likely lead to other fund managers preparing their own bitcoin or cryptocurrency ETFs in time. Both Fidelity and BlackRock have expressed interest in producing such products in the past.
Russian President Vladimir Putin has agreed to visit China as his first international trip since the International Criminal Court (ICC) issued an arrest warrant against him over war crimes in Ukraine, Bloomberg reported on Aug. 29, citing three undisclosed sources.

The Kremlin's leader has reportedly accepted the invitation of Chinese President Xi Jinping to attend the Belt and Road Forum in October, the outlet said.

Putin has avoided international trips since the ICC issued arrest warrants against him and Russian official Maria Lvova-Belova for their role in the illegal deportation of Ukrainian children to Russia. The only exemption was the Russian leader's reported visit to the occupied parts of Ukraine.

Earlier in August, he did not attend in person the BRICS summit hosted by South Africa, a country that is a signatory to the ICC's Rome Statute and therefore legally obliged to detain the Russian president.

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Putin also refused to attend the Group of 20 summit held in India, and instead of his allegedly planned trip to Turkey, his Turkish counterpart Recep Tayyip Erdogan is scheduled to come to Russia's Sochi in the near future. Notably, neither Turkey nor India are parties to the ICC.

According to sources cited by Bloomberg, the Russian leader is willing to visit only those countries where his security service can completely guarantee his safety. Russia's close ally China, who is also not a party to the Rome Statute, is one of such places, Bloomberg's sources said.

This would be Putin's first trip to China since February 2022, when he met Xi to proclaim "friendship without limits" between Moscow and Beijing, just weeks before Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine.

The two countries closely cooperate in their efforts to challenge the U.S. geopolitical dominance. While China has publicly positioned itself as a neutral party to the Russo-Ukrainian War and urged a peaceful solution, Beijing has backed Moscow against the West's effort to isolate Russia on the international stage.

The Chinese government publicly denied that it had provided military aid to the Kremlin, however, a U.S. intelligence report from July 27 suggested that China has in fact exported significant amounts of dual-use technologies that Moscow deploys for military purposes in Ukraine.

Read also: Explainer: Chinas increasing role in Russias war against Ukraine

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
What happens when you cut prices for a popular amusement by, in some places, 75%?

If you bought a ticket for National Cinema Day on Sunday, you paid just $4 a ticket.

Of course, many people took advantage of the deal.

More than 8.5 million tickets were sold on Sunday, according to The Hollywood Reporter and participating theaters saw an increase in attendance by five percent compared to last year. In 2022, tickets were sold for $3.

While moviegoers appreciated the low ticket prices, some movie studios were pleased with how this impacted their films.

(L-R) Bruna Marquezine, Xolo Mariduena and Angel Manuel Soto

Blue Beetle, which was expected to drop 61% in its second weekend, actually got a boost in attendance because of National Cinema Day. The cheaper tickets reduced the drop to 49%, thats according to The Wrap.

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When it comes to sheer grosses from the cheap ticket day, Barbie came in at number one with $5.7 million. Blue Beetle came in at second with $5.5 million and the newest film, Gran Turismo raked in $4.7 million.

Michael OLeary, president and CEO of the National Association of Theatre Owners, explained to THR how this is a good sign for the movie industry.

The positive response to National Cinema Day is just another reminder of how much people love going to the movie theater, OLeary said. These numbers show us that the future of exhibition is strong and that consumer enthusiasm for the theatrical experience continues unabated.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA.
On 29 August, on the second day after the Russian attack on an industrial facility in the village of Hoholeve in Poltava Oblast, rescue workers found the body of a fourth victim.

Source: Dmytro Lunin, head of the Poltava Oblast Military Administration, on Telegram

Quote: "On the second day after the Russian attack rescue workers found a fourth body. Our condolences to the family and friends of innocent victims of the terrorist act of the Russians."

Background:

On the night of 27 August, a Russian missile completely destroyed an industrial oil mill facility in the village of Hoholeve in the Myrhorod district. As a result of the explosion, the building of the oil mill caught fire.

Ukrainska Pravda is the place where you will find the most up-to-date information about everything related to the war in Ukraine. Follow us on Twitter, support us, or become our patron!








Erin Waller is the executive director of the Daviess County Public Library, and in ordinary times, shed spend the last days of summer getting the library ready for school year programming.

Instead, shes working her way through a list of 248 books that have been challenged by the Daviess County Citizens for Decency, which sounds like something out of Joe McCarthys fever dreams.

But its all too real for Waller, who must read each of the 248 books and make a recommendation about whether it should stay in its own section, be moved to another section or be removed altogether. Shes made it through about 90 so far.

About 60 of them were very easy because they were childrens picture books, Waller said. The complaints are about a variety of things  conversations on race or gender, a child has two mothers, or a child is questioning something.

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Now I know that some parents dont want their children to read about anything to do with gender or sexuality. Thats why they fully have the power to stop their children from checking out those books, or even going to a public library or doing anything that reflects the world we live in today.

The Decency group got started by Jerry Chapman because they objected to a drag show at the taxpayer funded RiverPark Center. Then they turned their attention to books, and when Waller didnt act quickly enough, they tried to get her fired.

We asked the library to permanently suspend any celebration of sexuality with children by discontinuing participation in Pride month, Chapman told me in an email. We have made our mission clear. WE WILL PROTECT THIS COMMUNITYS CHILDREN, AND THEIR PARENTS RIGHTS.

But many of the books on the list are not about gender or sexuality. These people have decided that anything reflecting Americas horrific history of race should also be off limits.

Chapman and friends complained about books on Juneteenth or The Undefeated, a childrens books about heroes of Black history, such as Frederick Douglass and James Baldwin.

Waller pointed out that the Decency group seemed to have gotten their list from BookLooks.org, a book rating site put together by Florida mom Emily Maikisch, according to the Washington Post. (Psst, hey kids! If you want to skip ahead to all the dirty parts of these books, Mrs. Maikisch has helpfully compiled all the sex scenes here for you.)

Under the The Undefeated, citation, the summary of concerns is contains racial commentary. The actual content? Page 16, because black lives matter.

Heres another one  Ablaze with Color: The Story of Alma Thomas, about an early Black painter in the U.S. Those citations, starting on page 11, are: her family decided to move to the North. Away from the injustices of the South ... But even the nations capital, schools were segregated and access to art limited ... How nature made her sing and dance, even when life could be hard and unjust.

Yes, apparently saying that life can be hard and unjust for anyone, much less a Black person during segregation, is now off-limits because according to people like this, it might make a white person somewhere feel bad about themselves. To misquote H.L. Mencken, book banners are really worried that someone somewhere might read a book that will teach them something and open their mind.

A book banning surge

Trying to ban real Black history in our libraries is far more indecent, disgusting and immoral than the nastiest sex scene from Harold Robbins or Judith Krantz. But these people keep trying, and not just in Owensboro. Requests to ban books at U.S. public schools and libraries surged to a 21-year record in 2022, according to data from the American Library Association.

In Paris, Bourbon County Public Library director Mark Adler is also grappling with 37 new challenges, most of them from one family.

Ultimately, the library is charged to provide materials for everyone in our community and we take that very seriously, he said. The community is diverse and as taxpayers, everyone deserves to see themselves in the materials.

Sadly, it could get worse. Thanks to a new state law, fiscal courts will have a say over who gets appointed to library boards. In Anderson County, for example, the court recently appointed a man who not only had not applied, but was known for protesting at the library.

The Clark County Library Board recently voted to remove the American Library Associations Freedom to Read policy statement out of their bylaws. It says in part, It is in the public interest for publishers and librarians to make available the widest diversity of views and expressions, including those that are unorthodox, unpopular, or considered dangerous by the majority.

Tammy Blackwell is vice-chair of the Kentucky Public Library Association and director of the Marshall County library system, and said book challenges are increasing in Kentucky, just like the rest of the country.

We just really stress that were in support of all those libraries working to support intellectual freedom, Blackwell said. Really were kind of a cheering section for our libraries. The preservation of intellectual freedom is important for democracy, its important for a free society, and we encourage libraries to keep on, keeping on.

Blackwell said shes been lucky in Marshall County with a public and a library board that is happy with what the library does in the community.

I think its sad that less than 1% of the population is unhappy with less than 1% of our collection, and thats overshadowing the amazing good that libraries do, she said. We lend books, but thats so little of what we do these days  were helping people find jobs, were helping seniors, were promoting early literacy and getting kids ready for kindergarten, libraries are stepping up and taking on that role.

These book challenges are about grabs for control by small-minded people who think they should determine what everyone else should see and think. Its a pain in the neck for librarians, terrible for the community (which divides itself over a precious public resource), and an attack on our fragile democracy by attempting to hide the facts of our imperfect history.

People who want to ban books in the name of decency are indecent. But librarian Tammy Blackwell is far more magnanimous.

I do not see book banners as an enemy, she said. These are people we havent done our job with  they are getting information from an unreliable source and taking it as a fact. People dont have the information literacy they need. They are not our enemy, they are part of the community we are here to serve.
Getting married in Boston? If you are, you no longer have to identify your sex or gender on your marriage license.

City officials announced the change on Tuesday, saying the move is the first Boston has made based on new gender-aware guidelines for City resources and the collection of gender-identity data throughout government processes.

These guidelines will support City staff who design and operate services, programs, and policies in the City of Boston and are intended to provide more dignified experiences for all residents, including those whose gender and sexual identities have historically not been recognized or supported by government agencies, Mayor Michelle Wu said in a statement.

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The effort was led by the Department of Innovation and Technology, the Mayors Office of LGBTQ+ Advancement, and the Citys Registry Department, Wu said.

Boston residents who wish to have an updated marriage license issued without sex or gender identification can contact the City Registry for a new copy.

Our fundamental charge in public service is ensuring that our services and opportunities reach everyone, and that starts with affirming and supporting constituents of all identities, said Wu. Boston must continue to work to dismantle the historic inequities and injustices that persist. This update to Boston marriage licenses is a huge step in building a City that is truly inclusive, and Im excited to see how these critical changes for accessibility at City Hall serve Bostonians.

In her statement, Wu said, Data can be a powerful tool to understand disparities and to drive equitable outcomes. However, embedding the collection of data into government programs can often have negative consequences for the people those services and programs were intended to help in the first place. The consequences can be magnified when data collection is mandatory or tied to other personally identifying information. As these are complex issues that involve trade-offs, the City expects these standards and guidelines to evolve.

Collecting the right amount of data in the right way will ensure that the City delivers services equitably and effectively to people of all gender identities while protecting privacy and safety to the best of its ability, the statement said.

Wu said Tuesdays announcement builds on her work to ensure that Boston is an inclusive and equitable city for residents of all gender identities.

In 2020, the Boston City Council unanimously passed an ordinance authored by then-City Councilor Wu and Councilor Liz Breadon to ensure gender inclusivity on all city-issued forms, documents, and certificates. In March 2022, Wu announced the creation of the Office of LGBTQ+ Advancement.

The city has since created this new set of standards and guidelines that will support city workers in determining when and how they should collect gender identity information, according to officials, who issued the following guidelines:

1. Define key terms city staff should understand related to gender identity;

2. Help city departments determine when it is necessary and appropriate to ask constituents about their gender identity;

3. Provide standard language that city departments should use when they have determined they need to ask constituents about their gender identity; and

4. Align the standards in the guidelines with state, federal, or other data systems that have limitations in how they record this data.

Were committed to ensuring that all City employees and departments get the proper support to embed gender inclusive language and practices into the way they engage with residents and ask for personal information, Julia Gutierrez, Bostons Chief Digital Officer, said in a statement. Just as the language for talking about gender is dynamic and changes over time, we expect to regularly review and continuously improve these standards and guidelines in response to the feedback we receive.

In her statement, Wu said, The LGBTQ+ community across the country continues to face marginalization, discrimination, and violence - particularly Black and Brown trans and gender non-conforming community members. A persons gender and sexual identity can be tremendously important to their overall identity. These guidelines and standards seek to balance the right to be affirmed against risks and constraints.

Government agencies create harm by not allowing people to affirm their identities, especially if information is collected that misrepresents who they are, the statement said. At the same time, collecting information increases risks for vulnerable groups and creates barriers to participation.

In a statement, Mariangely Solis Cervera, Bostons Chief of Equity and Inclusion, said, Good government is responsive to an evolving world where everyone has access to city services in a way that feels equitable, safe and inclusive. Massachusetts was the first state to legally recognize marriage equality, but we know that the work of creating a more just world is ongoing. I am proud to be part of the City of Bostons trajectory as a continued leader in equity, inclusion, and justice.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.

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Its official: The death of Yevgeny Prigozhin, leader and financier of the Wagner mercenary group, was officially confirmed by Russian authorities this weekend, days after his private plane plummeted to the ground northwest of Moscow. While the Kremlin has engaged in the usual obfuscation and denial, Prigozhin, who led a 24-hour mutiny in June that embarrassed the Russian government, was likely the victim of the Russian security services.

We may never know who specifically authorized the mercenary chiefs killing. But whether it was Russian President Vladimir Putin or someone lower in the pecking order, Prigozhin was obviously viewed by the upper echelons of the Russian government as a liability that needed to be dealt with. While Prigozhins men in Wagner were arguably the most battle-tested and ruthless in Ukraine, the former caterer-turned-warlord got too big for his britches. You cant mouth off about Putin being deceived by his military advisers, let alone shoot down a few Russian aircraft, as you drive toward Moscow and then live to tell the tale. Russians such as journalist Anna Politkovskaya, oligarch Boris Berezovsky and opposition leader Boris Nemtsov were killed for far less.

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Prigozhin will no longer be a nagging challenge for the Kremlin. But his death spurs a series of questions.

First, what will happen to the Wagner Group? This band of mercenaries has proved quite useful for Putin over the years. In Ukraine, Wagner provided the Russian military with tens of thousands of men; they were used as cannon fodder in areas such as Bakhmut. Just as important, Prigozhin bought the Russian military high command the time to train hundreds of thousands of additional recruits and allowed Putin to delay a second, unpopular mobilization. (The first, in September 2022, prompted tens of thousands of eligible Russians to flee the country.) In Africa, Wagner helped solidify Moscows ties with several countries, including Mali, Sudan and the Central African Republic, without having to expend official Russian government resources.

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[ Elizabeth Shackelford: Why the Wagner Groups influence in West Africa is growing ]

All of this is now up in the air. Putin will have to make a decision. Cutting Wagner loose doesnt seem practical or plausible. For the last two months, the Kremlin has tried to distinguish the patriots of the organization from its leadership, which suggests that Putin wants to preserve it in some fashion. Now that Wagners leadership has been neutralized in the most sensationalist way possible  Prigozhin wasnt the only high-profile Wagnerite to perish in the plane crash  the Russian state will try to exhibit more control over the groups operations. There is some evidence to this effect already; on the same day Prigozhins plane went down, Russias deputy defense minister traveled to Libya, Wagners turf, to meet with Libyan warlord Khalifa Haftar. On Friday, Putin signed a decree that requires any entity working on behalf of the Russian military to declare an oath of allegiance to the Russian state. It seems like Putin has learned his lesson: The last thing he wants is a mini-Frankensteins monster free to do what it wants.

Chicago Tribune Opinion Weekdays Read the latest editorials and commentary curated by the Tribune Opinion team. By submitting your email to receive this newsletter, you agree to our Subscriber Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy >

Zoom out further, and another question emerges: Does Prigozhins death matter as it pertains to the ongoing war in Ukraine? At first glance, the answer seems obvious: Of course it will. Prigozhin, after all, was essentially an informal general, often at the front recording videos as explosions occurred miles away. He used his high-profile stature and mad-dog antics to push the sluggish, gargantuan Russian military bureaucracy into accelerating ammunition shipments to his men.

Wagner, however, is no longer much of an actor in Ukraine. The Kremlin basically used the group as an assault force, doing the work Russias real generals werent particularly keen on performing themselves. Consider the Battle of Bakhmut. In what is known as a meat grinder tactic, scores of men were tasked with pressing forward in the face of intense Ukrainian fire. When the city was finally in Russias hands, Prigozhins men withdrew to occupied Ukrainian territory. They havent really been in the action ever since. Approximately 5,000 Wagnerites are now sitting in neighboring Belarus, training the Belarusian army. The days when tens of thousands of mercenaries were at the beck and call of a charismatic warlord doing the Kremlins bidding are likely long gone, which means Putin will have to rely on the formal enlistment and recruitment process to generate the men he needs to prosecute the war.

[ Editorial: Vladimir Putin is no Bond villain. Supporting him is morally repulsive. ]

Finally, the dramatic last few days raise questions as to the strength and durability of the political system Putin has built over the last 23 years. Putin has preserved his system by keeping the Russian economic and political elite on his side through inducements and coercion. The fact that Prigozhin was able to lead a very public rebellion, capture the Russian city of Rostov-on-Don and jet toward Moscow with only the most token resistance from Russian security forces was a huge dent to the image Putin successfully conjured over the last two decades. That he allowed Prigozhin to get away with it, dropping charges against him and permitting him to move to Belarus, added salt to the wounds.

Killing Prigozhin goes a long way toward alleviating those embarrassments. Any of the elites who may have been thinking about challenging Putins management of the war in Ukraine will now be scared straight. Its likely no coincidence that Gen. Sergei Surovikin, one of Prigozhins allies in the Russian military, was stripped of his title around the same time the mercenary chief met his fiery death.

Putin has made a statement: Cross me, and you will pay with your life. In other words: business as usual at the Kremlin.

Daniel DePetris is a fellow at Defense Priorities and a foreign affairs columnist for the Chicago Tribune.

Submit a letter, of no more than 400 words, to the editor here or email letters@chicagotribune.com.
Tax

Deloitte hired Hobart Hallaway & Quayle Ventures to lobby on issues affecting tax and accounting professionals, including appropriations and tax policy. One of the lobbyists on the account is former Rep. Kevin Yoder (R-Kan.), who served in Congress from 2011 to 2019 and was a member of the House Appropriations Committee throughout his tenure.

Credit cards

Mastercard hired Tower 19 to lobby on policies including the Credit Card Competition Act, Sen. Dick Durbins (D-Ill.) bill that could challenge what he has called the Visa-Mastercard duopoly in the credit card network market. Opponents say the bill could throttle popular rewards programs, compromise security and boost the bottom lines of big retailers. Jed Bhuta, who previously worked as legislative director for former Rep. Heath Shuler (D-N.C.), will lobby on the account.

Noise

The City of Atlantis, Fla., hired Genesis Partners Palm Beach to lobby on issues related to the safety and noise impacts on communities adjacent to the Lantana Airport. One of the lobbyists on the account is former Rep. Mark Foley (R-Fla.), who resigned from Congress in 2006 amid revelations he sent sexually explicit messages to male congressional pages.

Financial regulations

Americans for Financial Reform hired TheGROUP DC to monitor issues related to funding of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB). The U.S. Supreme Court will hear oral arguments in October on a case that could subject the agencys funding to congressional appropriations. Some Republicans argue appropriations are crucial for agency accountability, while critics warn it could be used to gut the CFPB. Jorge Georgie Aguilar, who worked for former House Speaker and current Rep. Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) for almost a decade, will work on the account.

China

Ninestar Corporation, a printer cartridge manufacturer, hired Sidley Austin to lobby on issues related to the implementation of the Uyghur Forced Labor Protection Act and Chinese investments in the United States. One of the lobbyists on the account is Michael Borden, former senior counsel on the House Financial Services Committee.

Fuel

Nacero hired Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher for outreach on loans and tax credits related to sustainable aviation fuel. Roscoe Jones, former chief of staff to Rep. Abigail Spanberger (D-Va.), will work on the account.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
When leaders of the BRICS nations gathered for group photos at the end of their summit in Johannesburg last week, it offered a glimpse of the contours of the new world order Beijing is trying to shape.

Standing at the front and center was Xi Jinping, Chinas powerful leader, surrounded by a stage of leaders from emerging markets and developing countries across Africa, Asia and Latin America.

The summit was the largest the BRICS have ever held, with more than 60 countries attending alongside member nations Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa.

Flanking the current BRICS leaders were counterparts from Argentina, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, Egypt and the United Arab Emirates  who had just been invited to join the club.

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The development is a big win for Xi, who has long pushed to expand the bloc and its clout despite reservations from other members such as India and Brazil.

The expansion, the first since South Africa was added in 2010, is set to more than double the groups membership and significantly extend its global reach  especially in the Middle East.

This makes China the clear winner, said Steve Tsang, director of the SOAS China Institute at the University of London. Getting six new members is a significant move in its preferred direction of travel.

For Beijing, as well as Moscow, the expansion is part of its drive to forge the loose economic grouping into a geopolitical counterweight to the West  and Western institutions such as the G7.

That mission has become all the more urgent over the past year given Chinas escalating rivalry with the United States, as well as the ramifications of the Ukraine war  which saw Beijing further estranged from the West over its support for Moscow.

As shown by the BRICS expansion and the long waiting list to join, Xis offer of an alternative world order is finding receptive ears in the Global South, where many countries feel themselves marginalized in an international system they see as dominated by the US and its wealthy allies.

Echoing their demand for a larger say in global affairs, the BRICS leaders declaration repeatedly called for greater representation of emerging markets and developing countries in international institutions  from the United Nations and its Security Council to the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank.

Xi, who peppered his speeches at the summit with criticism of US hegemony, hailed the expansion as historic and a new starting point for BRICS cooperation.

Happymon Jacob, a professor of international studies at New Delhis Jawaharlal Nehru University, said the expansion highlights a shift in global geopolitical fault lines.

Being a leader of non-Western forums and the Global South, which in general is dissatisfied with the US-led institutions, will invariably help China become a counterweight to the US and the world order led by the US, he said.

The new members

But a wider membership also raises questions about the cohesion and coherence of BRICS, whose existing members already differ widely in political systems, economic prowess and diplomatic goals.

I am skeptical in terms of the effectiveness of the organization after the expansion, and whether in the end the expansion is more symbolic than substantive, said Yun Sun, director of the China program at the Stimson Center in Washington.

The more members there are, the more interests the organization needs to reconcile and accommodate.

That is particularly true for a consensus-based organization like BRICS, where decisions are only made if all members agree.

The new joiners are a somewhat disparate group. Two are very much struggling economies. Argentina, a serial defaulter that has long struggled with inflation and currency crises, is the biggest borrower from the IMF. Egypt, which is facing its own economic crisis, is the IMFs second largest debtor.

Ethiopia, the second most populous country in Africa and once one of the continents fastest-growing economies, is reeling from the devastation of a two-year civil war in the countrys Tigray region, which ended in December, amid evidence of widespread human rights abuses.

The enlarged bloc will also include three of the worlds largest oil exporters: Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Iran.

The former two are traditionally close allies of America, but have recently fostered closer ties with China which has stepped up its presence in the region amid a perceived power vacuum left by the US.

Iran and Saudi Arabia are arch rivals, though earlier this year they restored diplomatic ties in a deal brokered by China.

That contrasts heavily with a more unified bloc like the G7 which is comprised of like-minded democracies with large industrialized economies.

Helena Legarda, lead analyst at the Mercator Institute for China Studies, a think tank in Berlin, said it is unclear to what extent the BRICS expansion will increase the value and influence of the group.

Without a shared ideology and clear overarching goal, it is likely that the addition of six new members may instead make BRICS a more divided group.

Chinese leader Xi Jinping, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the BRICS Summit in Johannesburg, South Africa, on August 24. - BRICS/Anadolu Agency/Getty Images

Internal divisions

A key dividing issue is the anti-US agenda pushed by China and Russia, which has been strengthened with the inclusion of Iran.

India and Brazil have expressed concerns about the bloc potentially becoming too anti-Western and dominated by Beijing, and some of the new members may be similarly skeptical, according to Legarda.

Despite the clear geopolitical objectives that China has for the group, many other developing and emerging economies dont see BRICS as an exclusively geopolitical body. They are also motivated by economic opportunities and the chance of securing privileged access to the Chinese and other markets, she said.

But China is battling its own economic woes at home  from a spiraling property crisis and mounting local government debt to record youth unemployment and an ageing population. Many economists believe the worlds second largest economy is entering an era of much slower growth, which can have a profound impact on the global economy.

The BRICS expansion is also likely to fuel competition  and potential friction  between China and India, whose ties have already been strained by a simmering border conflict.

Sino-Indian competition for the leadership of the Global South is now bound to sharpen with China having a clear advantage, said Jacob in New Delhi.

While India does have good relations with all of the new BRICS members, Chinas deep pockets and its ability to fill the post-American vacuum especially in the Middle East would mean that China will be able to influence the institution far more than India could, he added.

The rivalry and tensions between China and India, as well as between Iran and Saudi Arabia, mean that issues they can agree upon and jointly act upon are unlikely to be significant in number and in nature, said Sun with the Stimson Center.

The expansion certainly builds an image of a growing coalition vis-a-vis the West, but having more countries in one organization does not equate to more effectiveness.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
Police in Oklahoma have arrested a burglary suspect  but theyre giving the credit to a herd of goats.

Officers with the Tulsa Police Department were called to a burglary at about 6:40 p.m. Friday, Aug. 25. A man reported he caught someone trying to pry open his storage building.

The victim said he held the suspect at gunpoint, but the man ran away, according to a Facebook post from the department.

Officers found the suspect close to a gas station, but then he took off into the woods, police said. The officers established a perimeter and started to search the area with a police dog.

Meanwhile, unbeknownst to police, the burglary suspect had found a hiding spot under someones trailer, according to the news release. Thats where the goats come in.

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The herd of ruminants began staring at the trailer, authorities said, and their owner found it suspicious.

Police said the property owner went to check out what was going on  and he found the suspect hiding under the trailer.

(The suspect) then jumped over a fence trying to escape, but Officers on the ground and a K9 were there waiting for him and took him into custody, officials said. He was arrested on charges of attempted burglary in the second degree, obstruction and possession of drug paraphernalia.

While we know that our Officers are the Greatest Of All Time, it really was the GOATS who get the credit on this one, police said.

Annoyed cows lead cops to fugitive hiding in their pasture, North Carolina town says

Elusive pig evades capture for days. Cops fairly certain hes the fastest pig alive

Willy the little rodeo goat is lost in a Texas town  so the search is on, photos show
With the right permissions, your yard could become a home cemetery in Missouri or Kansas.

A recent case of a woman arrested in Kansas City and alleged to have buried her fathers body in a backyard at a Nevada home has some wondering whether such a practice is legal in the metro area.

In Missouri, its a little complicated  residents need permission from their county to designate a portion of their property as a family burying ground. They also need to report the location of any bodies they bury.

But in Kansas, laws are more lax: While digging up a body is restricted, burying one is not  and you dont have to tell authorities where the body is.

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Heres a closer look at these laws in both states.

What Missouri law says about burying bodies

It depends on the countys laws.

A Missouri statute says, Any person desirous of securing family burying ground or cemetery on his or her lands, may convey to the county commission of the county in which the land lies any quantity of land not exceeding one acre, in trust for the purpose above mentioned, the deed for which to be recorded within sixty days after the conveyance.

However, a Missouri statute condemns anyone who abandons, disposes, deserts or leaves a corpse without properly reporting the location of the body, with a penalty that can carry four years of imprisonment or one year in jail depending on the case.

A fine of $10,000 may also be imposed, Michael Mansur, a spokesman for the Jackson County Prosecutors Office, told The Star in March.

A Kansas City ordinance requires residents to report a death to the director of health and file a certificate within three days.

What Kansas law says about home burials

In Kansas, laws dictating how a person should deal with a dead body are less restrictive.

Johnson County District Attorney Steve Howe told The Star in March burying a family member in the backyard or leaving them in the home without alerting authorities is not a criminal offense.

Howe said these laws are likely open-ended to not impose on a persons religious and personal convictions of how a body should be taken care of after death.

Howe said Kansas has a desecration statute that seeks to stop bodies from being damaged or disturbed, with varying penalties depending on the amount of harm done.

The law does not outline how a person should care for their deceased or where they should report the incident if they die of natural causes.

The Stars Natalie Wallington contributed.

Do you have more questions about Kansas or Missouri state laws? Ask the Service Journalism team at kcq@kcstar.com.
A woman was sentenced to 10 years in prison after pleading guilty to stabbing a bus driver in March, Oregon officials said.

Ana Karen Perez-Velador, 29, was sentenced on charges of second-degree assault, unlawful use of a weapon and coercion, according to an Aug. 28 news release by the Multnomah County District Attorneys Office.

Perez-Velador is accused of stabbing a bus driver in Portland after being told the bus had reached the end of the line, according to a March 14 news release by the Multnomah County Sheriffs Office.

Perez-Velador was with a 26-year-old man when the driver told the pair they needed to get off the bus, police said.

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Then, the woman pulled out a knife and stabbed the driver in the leg, police said.

The driver told officials they escaped through the driver side window while Perez-Velador was in the doorway, police said.

The pair was eventually arrested, and the driver was sent to a local hospital for a leg injury, police said.

Woman with beer and knife opens strangers car and tries to take baby, Utah cops say

Man stabbed at least 30 times in Las Vegas parking lot in beef over money, cops say

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Buster Murdaugh, whose father was convicted in March of murdering his mother and younger brother, believes their killer is still out there  and he may be a target himself.

When I go to bed at night, I have a fear that theres somebody else out there, Richard Alexander Buster Murdaugh told Fox News anchor Martha MacCallum in his first television interview since Alex Murdaugh was convicted of gunning down Maggie Murdaugh, 52, and their youngest son Paul Murdaugh, 22, on the night of June 7, 2021.

I think that Ive set myself up to be safe, but yes, when I go to bed at night I have a fear that there is somebody that is still out there, Buster told MacCallum calmly.

Buster Murdaugh sat down with Martha MacCallum for Fox Nation's docuseries

Buster Murdaugh sat down with Martha MacCallum for Fox Nation's docuseries "The Fall of the House of Murdaugh."

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Several clips of the interview, part of Fox Nations three-part docuseries The Fall of the House of Murdaugh, were released to People and others to HuffPost on Tuesday. They mark the first time Buster has spoken on camera since he testified at his fathers highly watched trial, which he attended every day. His matter-of-fact responses to questions about his fathers role in the gruesome slaying lack force and emotion, the opposite of his fathers bluster and histrionics on the witness stand.

Alex Murdaugh was sentenced to two consecutive life sentences in May, and the jury deliberated only three hours before finding him guilty. Yet when pressed by MacCallum, Buster confirmed his belief that his father didnt pull the trigger  or hire anyone else to do it.

No, maam, Buster said in a gentle Southern drawl. I dont think that he could be affiliated with endangering my mother and brother. I mean, thats, I mean, weve been here for a while now and thats been my stance.

Alex stunned court observers when he admitted hed lied about his whereabouts on the night of the murders after video from Pauls cellphone surfaced that placed him at their hunting propertys dog kennels moments before the shooting.

Buster chuckled and said crappy motive when MacCallum mentioned the digital evidence, and called the trial unfair.

I was there for six weeks studying it, and I think it was a tilted table from the beginning. And I think, unfortunately, a lot of the jurors felt that way prior to when they had to deliberate. It was predetermined in their minds prior to when they ever heard any shred of evidence that was given in that room.

I think that people get overwhelmed, and I think that they believe everything that they read, Buster said about the 12 jurors who found his father guilty. And I think it took advantage of a jury pool in a very small town in a very small county.

The case involving the prominent South Carolina family received worldwide attention, especially after Alex Murdaugh staged a suicide attempt and was charged with dozens of financial crimes and misappropriating funds from an insurance settlement related to the death of his housekeeper on his property.

At trial, prosecutors argued that Alex feared exposure of his financial crimes because of an impending lawsuit by the family of Mallory Beach, who was killed in a boat crash caused by Paul Murdaugh. Seeking to create a distraction and earn public sympathy, he killed his family, prosecutors said.

When MacCallum asked whether Buster worried he might be like his father, he responded, No, I do not worry, because I am not a thief. I am not a liar. Im not a manipulator.

He added that he shares some of his fathers more admirable traits, which I am quite proud of.

Beachs family was recently awarded $15 million in a settlement with the insurance carrier for the owner of a convenience store that allegedly sold alcohol to Paul, then 19, before the fatal crash in February 2019.

Another local death, that of 19-year-old Stephen Smith in July 2015, had also caused rumors to swirl around Buster. That case is now being investigated as a homicide, and Buster has denied any involvement, calling the rumors baseless and vicious in a statement weeks after his fathers conviction.

In the interview with MacCallum, Buster added that he never considered the possibility that his father was guilty.

I think that I hold a very unique perspective that nobody else in that courtroom ever held, he said. And I know the love that I have witnessed.

The Fall of the House of Murdaugh premieres on Aug. 31 on Fox Nation, Fox News subscription-based streaming service.

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Buster Murdaugh says in his first appearance on a docuseries about the murders of his mother and brother that the term psychopath does not describe his father completely but he does think its a fair assessment.

There are characteristics where you look at the manipulation and the lies and the carrying out of that such and I think that is a fair assessment, he said.

The three-part documentary with host Martha MacCallum will begin streaming on the subscription-based network Fox Nation on Thursday. The production company released three short clips of Buster Murdaughs interview, which include candid photos of his father, Alex Murdaugh, who was convicted of the murders and is serving two life sentences in a South Carolina prison.

Paul Murdaugh also said he didnt understand why his father lied about being at the kennels shortly before Maggie and Paul Murdaugh were shot to death on June 7, 2021. The mother and son were shot to death outside the dog runs on their 1,700 acre hunting estate.

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The lie was uncovered when Alexs voice was heard on a video on Pauls phone made just before the murders. It was a pivotal part of the prosecutions case.

I thought it was very odd, Buster Murdaugh said. I was very confused.

He said he would still like to understand why his father lied. Alex should have explained to the jury why he lied, Buster said.

The case against Alex Murdaugh has been the subject of many television series, but through it all, Buster has kept silent other than to testify for his father during the trial earlier this year.

Jurors convicted Alex Murdaugh within hours.

The new series promises a behind-the-scenes look at the case from the defense side with exclusive video before and during the trial and interviews with defense attorneys Dick Harpootlian and Jim Griffin.

Through a firsthand account from Buster Murdaugh and access to key players, including friends and family, this series puts forward several missing elements that have not been brought to light, Fox Nation President Jason Klarman said in a news release.

He did not say what the missing elements are.

Called The Fall of the House of Murdaugh, the series will include never-before-seen home movies, as well as intimate prison revelations from Alex himself.

Also interviewed were lead prosecutor Creighton Waters, Attorney General Alan Wilson, Colleton County Clerk Rebecca Hill, local attorney Joe McCulloch, Maurdaughs dog kennel manager Roger Dale Davis Jr., Walterboro Mayor William T. Young Jr., and the prosecutions forensic expert Kenneth Kinsey.

Kinsey was a key witness who mapped out the crime scene and explained the complicated forensics in a folksy manner. He was a deputy with the Orangeburg County Sheriffs Office and has a private investigation business.

Paul and Maggie Murdaugh were murdered on the estate known as Moselle in Isleton. Alex Murdaugh was a prominent attorney from a long line of prominent attorneys in Walterboro until the murders, when investigators began looking into his finances and other deaths that have occurred in the Murdaugh orbit.

He faces dozens of charges alleging he stole millions from clients insurance settlements and is expected to plead guilty to federal charges on Sept. 21. He also faces state charges.
The surviving son of murderer Alex Murdaugh is finally speaking outand doubling down on his belief that his father is not a murderer.

In his first television interview, Buster Murdaugh reiterated his belief that his father did not fatally shoot his mother, Maggie, and younger brother, Paul near the dog kennels of their family estate in June 2021. Murdaugh was convicted in February and is serving two life sentences in South Carolina in connection with the murders that garnered international interest and revealed the disgraced former lawyers trail of other alleged criminal activity.

I do not think that he could be affiliated with endangering my mother and brother, Buster said in a clip of the upcoming three-part documentary with FOX Nation host Martha MacCallum. We have been here for a while now and thats been my stance.

The 26-year-old, however, also admitted he was confused by several pieces of crucial evidence that were revealed during his fathers South Carolina murder trial in February, including his fathers stunning revelation on the stand that he had lied about being at the dog kennels shortly before the June 7, 2021 murder. During the trial, prosecutors also revealed a video Paul Murdaugh had taken just before the murders, where Murdaugh can be heard in the background.

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I thought it was very odd, Buster said, adding that he would still list an explanation from his father about why he lied. I was very confused.

Still, Buster has steadfastly defended his fathers innocence and even testified on his behalf during the trial. The Aug. 31 documentary, The Fall of the House of Murdaugh, promised to provide a behind-the-scenes look at Murdaughs case, interviews with his defense team, and prison revelations from Alex himself, a Fox Nation press release states.

In clips of the documentary, Buster also slams rumors about his involvement in the mysterious July 2015 death of gay 19-year-old Stephen Smith, whose body was found just miles from the Murdaugh family estate.

I never had anything to do with his murder, and I never had anything to do with him on a physical level in any regard, Buster said in a documentary clip.

While his death was deemed suspicious, a medical examiner ultimately concluded that Smith died from a hit-and-run and no one was ever charged in the case. In June 2021, state authorities announced a new investigation into Smiths death based upon information gathered during the course of the double-murder investigation of Paul and Maggie Murdaugh.

After Murdaughs conviction, Smiths mother and lawyers called for a new, independent investigation and exhumed the teenagers body for a second autopsy. Dispelling rumors about his involvement in the case, Buster said in a documentary clip that on the night of Smiths death, he was at his familys Edisto Beach home with his mother and brother.

I dont want to be rude here, but have you ever been accused of murdering somebody? Buster asks in the clip. Well, let me tell you, this is very, very, very, very, very, its a terrible thing to place on somebody with absolutely no fact. I mean, it has harmed my reputation. I mean, people perceive me as a murderer.

Read more at The Daily Beast.

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The claim: 14 US cities signed a climate treaty to eliminate meat and dairy consumption

An Aug. 20 article by The Peoples Voice warns of changes it says are coming to several large U.S. cities at the behest of the World Economic Forum.

14 American cities have signed a World Economic Forum treaty that legally compels them to ban meat, dairy, and private car ownership by the year 2030, the article begins.

The article was shared on Facebook more than 1,000 times in three days, according to CrowdTangle, a social media analytics tool.

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Our rating: False

The document referenced in the article isn't a treaty. It is a report on urban consumption released by a global network of climate-focused mayors. It is not a binding agreement, nor is it linked to the WEF.

Report is not a treaty

The article focuses on a 2019 document from C40, a network of mayors of large cities focused on fighting climate change. It includes information on the impact of zeroing out meat and dairy consumption, ending private car ownership, reducing the frequency of short-haul flights and limiting purchases of new clothing.

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But the report is not any kind of agreement, nor is it connected to the WEF.

"The report is an analysis of consumption-based emissions in C40 cities, not a plan for cities to adopt, let alone a legally binding treaty," said Rolf Rosenkranz, a C40 spokesman. "It's up to individuals to make their personal lifestyle choices, including what type of food to eat and what type of clothing they prefer."

The limitation and elimination of carbon-intensive activities highlighted in The Peoples Voice article are listed as ambitious targets in the report. However, the report also says it "does not advocate for the wholesale adoption of these more ambitious targets," calling them "reference points" that can be considered when developing emission-reduction plans.

Fact check: No, a WEF official did not call for 'eliminating' conspiracy theorists

The article also claims C40 is part of the WEF, but the two organizations do not have a direct link, according to Yann Zopf, a WEF spokesperson. While C40 as an organization and some of its leaders have taken part in WEF events, the report has nothing to do with the WEF.

Zopf also said the organization has no plan to restrict peoples nutrition."

"These claims are completely false and made up to discredit the important work that the World Economic Forum does on serious global challenges," Zopf said.

The People's Voice, previously known as NewsPunch, has repeatedly published fabricated stories, and the WEF is a frequent target. USA TODAY has in recent months debunked claims from the site that the WEF called for all humans to have microchips implanted, that it declared people should consume human waste, and that it said all babies should be lab-grown.

USA TODAY reached out to The Peoples Voice for comment but did not immediately receive a response.

Lead Stories also debunked this claim.

Our fact-check sources:

Thank you for supporting our journalism. You can subscribe to our print edition, ad-free app or e-newspaper here.

Our fact-check work is supported in part by a grant from Facebook.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Post invents treaty banning meat, dairy in certain cities | Fact check
Much to the publics glee, former President Donald Trumps mug shot is in circulation.

Fulton County, Georgia, Sheriff Pat Labat promised it, saying when Trump would surrender, hed follow normal practices, and so it doesnt matter your status. Well have mug shots ready for you.

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The purpose of the mug shot isnt equality, and it isnt even identification anymore. Mug shots are a modern fetish in this country, and the way people are reacting to these arrests proves it. The public and police love them because theyre pornography to those of us who want to feel morally superior.

Before the standardized picture, law enforcement used various methods to document defendants and suspects like artists sketches and written descriptions. These methods were subjective and often ineffective. Once photography came along, police took pictures. In the 1880s, Parisian police adopted Alphonse Bertillons system of anthropometry, which involved taking precise measurements of various body parts to augment the data collected with the photo.

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A mug shots utility has dwindled over time. The larger a collection of suspects  sometimes called a rogues gallery  becomes, the more difficult it is to apply to a population. Its like a large game of memory  the more cards you have to turn, the less a match is likely. Eventually, measurements taken were reduced to just height and weight. But it wasnt just the statistics that changed; the mug shots meaning evolved and not in a good way.

Criminologist Cesare Lombroso wanted to shift the study of crime from the mind to that of the body. Lombroso and his colleagues Enrico Ferri and Raffaele Garofalo started the modern, or positivist, school of criminology and wanted to identify an anthropological criminal type. Under their school, crime was something that certain bodies were predisposed to; criminal behavior was atavistic. And criminality could be read from a number of signs: tattoos, head and bodily characteristics, facial features. The mug shot wasnt a memorialization. It was a prediction.

And a harmful one at that. The National Socialist German Workers Party  led by none other than Adolf Hitler  embraced Lombrosos theory to blame Jews as innately criminal and therefore in need of incapacitation, if not death. Criminology has since moved away from this line of thinking, but surveillance of the body is a theme in the current criminal legal system.

The mug shots history aside, the public seems unusually excited at Trumps fourth criminal case in as many months. People bet on his expression in the picture. Neal Katyal, a former acting U.S. solicitor general, told MSNBCs Deadline: White House: Im really glad to see Georgia say (to Trump)  Youre gonna be treated like everyone else.

[ Editorial: 4 indictments in 4 months. For the partys sake and the nations, GOP must renounce Trump. ]

These pictures are almost universally unflattering shots, and the ugliness is part of the design. There are no touch-ups or retakes, unless the photo doesnt resemble the person.

When the Detroit Free Press sued the Department of Justice in 2014 to have access to mug shots, the DOJ  a producer of procedural smut itself as the department that oversees the U.S. Marshals Service that processes people charged with federal crimes  argued that defendants have a privacy right to these pics because theyre so unflattering. It admitted that a mug shot conveys that the person may be embarrassed, humiliated, in shock, unwashed, unshaven, and generally unpresentable. Reviewing some of the celebrity mug shots out there shows the DOJ lawyers were correct.

Because it impugns both character and appearance, the mug shot might be worse than the underlying charge. An indelible celluloid record of ones worst moment isnt on too many peoples bucket list. But as the furor over Trumps arrests shows, mug shots are so bad that being spared one is considered preferential treatment.

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Even the recent discussion about the availability of mug shots online shows how much worse the picture is than the actual criminal case. News outlets such as the Houston Chronicle decline to publish them anymore, but they still report arrests and convictions. States are loath to expunge actual criminal records but seem to agree that the mug shot needs to go when it comes to public viewing.

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And make no mistake  people relish sharing mug shots. Broadcaster Mehdi Hasan tweeted: I suspect Donald Trumps mug shot tomorrow will instantly become one of the most-shared images in the history of the internet.

Theres a reason why sharing the frontal and side-view photos of someone charged with a crime satisfies people. Just by looking at these images, the lay public becomes almost deputized into law enforcement. Rachel Hall, a professor of communications at Syracuse University, calls this phenomenon the vigilante viewer. Casting eyes on the criminal image turns the underlying proceedings into a spectator sport, one that people enjoy witnessing viscerally.

This isnt to say that good reasons for mug shots exist; they do. With so many Michael Smiths in the world, a pictorial record can help separate people and protect the innocent. And, indeed, some people are proud of their mug shots. The late U.S. Rep. John Lewis tweeted his mug shot to educate people. To some, its a badge of honor.

But to most, these photos are little more than salacious spectacle, one that does little other than make people outside the frame feel better about themselves.

Chandra Bozelko is a columnist at The National Memo.

Submit a letter, of no more than 400 words, to the editor here or email letters@chicagotribune.com.
A Caddo Parish Commissioner has been disqualified from running for the October election following a judgment by Judge Michael A. Pitman.

According to the Louisiana Secretary of State, Steffon D. Jones has been disqualified from running for District 6 Commission seat.

Jones is the current Commissioner for District 6 and was appointed to the position in Nov. 2021 following the resignation of Lynn Cawthorne who pleaded guilty to federal wire fraud charges.

In a letter by Trey Brazan in the Secretary of State's Office, he said, "we have received notice of a judgment signed by the Honorable Judge Michael A. Pitman on August 18, 2023, which will disqualify Steffon D. Jones from running for the office of Parish Commission Member, District 6, Parish of Caddo, should he not withdraw."

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Jones will be able to finish his term, which will end in October but will have to seek reelection in the special election on March 23, 2024. Following the October election, the new commission will have to select an interim commissioner to fill Jones' spot.

Jones's removal from the race was due to unspecified issues at qualifying.

The Shreveport Times reached out to Jeff Everson, Clerk of Caddo Commission, and he said at this time he is unable to give a statement. Also, Jones did not respond to our request prior to deadline.

More: Who's running for office in Caddo Parish? See the list of who qualified

Makenzie Boucher is a reporter with the Shreveport Times. Contact her at mboucher@gannett.com.

This article originally appeared on Shreveport Times: Caddo Commissioner out of upcoming election
Data brokers collect and sell people's personal information that they harvest from various sources including public records and social media. (Vertigo3d via Getty Images)

John Gilmore knows how tough it is for people to scrub their personal data from the internet, even in California, where consumers have privacy rights.

It's a very labor-intensive process, said Gilmore, who heads research at DeleteMe, a company that people can pay to remove their information from websites. There's no way for the average person to understand whether the efforts they're making help or not.

California was on the cutting edge when it passed a digital privacy law in 2018, but one of the protections it granted has proved difficult for people to use. Though the law gives Californians the right to ask businesses to delete their personal information, it requires making the request one at a time to potentially hundreds of companies. That has made it hard for people to erase their digital footprints, especially because the law has exceptions that allow businesses to deny a deletion request.

Legislation under consideration in Sacramento would make it easier by allowing consumers to make just one request to get every data broker to delete their personal information. Like so many tech policy battles in the state Capitol, it has set off a debate between consumer groups and privacy advocates who argue that Californians deserve more control over their information online, and tech companies and other big businesses that contend the modern economy is built on the flow of data to personalize advertising and other services.

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Data brokers collect and sell peoples personal information including their address, age, marital status and occupation. These businesses include well-known credit reporting companies such as Equifax and Experian along with people search websites Spokeo and the Whitepages. But there are hundreds of data brokers that consumers might never have heard of, including those that work with political campaigns, law enforcement, marketers and small businesses. Roughly 500 data brokers are registered in California.

There's a lot of risks with our information being out there that people just aren't aware of, said Sen. Josh Becker (D-Menlo Park), who wrote Senate Bill 362 to allow consumers to make one request to get every data broker to delete their personal information. Its about giving people control of their personal information.

The bill, known as the Delete Act, faces a critical vote this Friday as a variety of business groups whose members include tech companies, advertisers, political consultants and credit unions are working to kill it.

Read more: California lawmakers want to make social media safer for young people. Can they finally succeed?

Supporters say personal data collected and sold by data brokers  including about people's location  could be used against abortion seekers, undocumented immigrants and activists. Those who oppose SB 362 say data collection also has benefits, helping businesses serve more relevant ads, law enforcement solve crimes, academics conduct research and nonprofits collect donations.

"California consumers will be posed with this mechanism to delete all of their data and we're concerned that they won't fully recognize what all that means," said Chris Oswald, executive vice president and head of government relations for the Assn. of National Advertisers.

The Consumer Data Industry Assn., which represents credit bureaus and background check companies, said the bill would make it tougher for businesses to quickly verify the identity of consumers. The group launched a website that included 15 reasons why businesses oppose the bill.

"In order for consumers to have free flow to the internet and purchases and transactions, it has to be instantaneous," said Dan Smith, president and chief executive of the Consumer Data Industry Assn.

Under the legislation, consumers could exclude certain data brokers from their deletion request. Data brokers would be required to delete a consumer's personal information at least once every 31 days. They would also be barred from selling data or sharing new personal information about the consumer.

Data brokers gather data through various sources including public records such as voter registration and social media posts. They also buy data from retailers and credit card providers that know a lot about their customers' spending habits.

Read more: Police like using Google data to solve crimes. Does that put your privacy at risk?

Gilmore said some of DeleteMe's California consumers have complained that data brokers don't respond to requests to delete their data. Companies can also drag out the process for weeks as they try to verify who is making the deletion request. Some of their customers want their data deleted because they've seen firsthand how their personal information can be misused, including for identity theft, stalking and harassment, he said.

The bill would make it easier for companies like DeleteMe to remove people's personal information from data broker websites while encouraging people to get more actively engaged about their privacy, he said. DeleteMe supports the legislation. One step consumers can take, Gilmore said, is limit the amount of information they provide to businesses.

Lawmakers have tried to regulate data brokers before but have failed amid stiff opposition from business groups. Last year, a federal bill to allow people to delete personal information held by data brokers with a single request died, but lawmakers revived similar legislation in January. Becker also introduced a state bill last year that would require data brokers to disclose more information when they register with California, including whether they've been breached or collected data of minors. It died in committee.

Supporters of SB 362, including the bill's leading advocate, Privacy Rights Clearinghouse, say the concerns of opponents are overblown and California would set a model for the U.S. and the rest of the world if it passed the legislation.

"It will certainly be a steep battle, but we're optimistic," said Emory Roane, policy counsel for the Privacy Rights Clearinghouse. "We think that there's a real chance that this will get over the line and get to the governor's desk."

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

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
A California elementary school was evacuated Tuesday morning after receiving a bomb threat with racial undertones, according to police. The threat, which was emailed to the principal Chabot Elementary School in Oakland, came a day after notorious right-wing account Libs Of TikTok tweeted about the school holding a playdate for children of color.

The threat was received at 7.30 a.m., Captain Lisa Ausmus of the Oakland Police Department said, according to local outlet the Oaklandside. About 30 children were at school at the time, Cpt. Ausmus said, all of whom were evacuated. Other parents and children were turned away by police while the school was searched. By 12.40pm, the school had been cleared by police.

The bomb threat came only a day after a tweet by Libs Of TikTok, a controversial X (formerly known as Twitter) account run by far-right activist Chaya Raichik, about a playdate for Black, Brown or API students and family organized by the schools equity and inclusion committee.

Come hang out while we get a chance to know each other and build our community as we kick off this school year, the flyer read.

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The tweet also included a statement apparently from a parent of a child at the school, upset about the event, which they deemed a no whites allowed playdate.

The post was picked up and reported by conservative media outlets such as Alex Jones InfoWars. This led to the organizers receiving a volley of threats, they said.

Not only have we been continuously getting hate mails, the school has been receiving calls nonstop and Trump supporters and other unhinged racists have been spreading the schools info by posting the address of our kids school for the whole internet to see, Chabots equity and inclusion committee said in a statement to KRON4. We have received a threat that has triggered an investigation by OPD which is now being considered a hate crime.

"I am outraged that our children, educators and neighbors have been targeted by malicious threats,"

The FBI is now involved, according to the Oakland Police Department. The police also investigated the homes of several individuals who also received bomb threats, according to NBC Bay Area.

I am outraged that our children, educators and neighbors have been targeted by malicious threats, Oakland Mayor Sheng Thao wrote on X. We are monitoring the situation closely.

On Monday, a library in nearby Davis, California received a threat containing hate speech that led to a local school being evacuated, according to USA Today.

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California Attorney General Rob Bonta and four of his colleagues submitted an amicus letter late Monday night, citing shortfalls in the company 3Ms multi-billion-dollar proposed settlement with contaminated water utilities.

The attorneys general said that while they are in favor of moving forward with the settlement, 3M should pay more than the $10 billion to $12 billion the firm has offered  in order to fund the massive remediation efforts public utilities will have to undertake to eliminate forever chemicals from their supplies.

3M has agreed to modify its original proposed settlement in critical ways that will benefit the American people. The states fought hard for those changes, Bonta said in a statement, referring to revisions made to the proposal over the past few months.

Joining Bonta in submitting amicus letter were the attorneys general of Arizona, the District of Columbia, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin.

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3M in a statement said it was pleased with the agreement.

We are pleased to have worked with the state attorneys general to clarify the public water suppliers (PWS) agreement and they have withdrawn their objections, 3M spokesperson Carolyn LaViolette said in a statement. This agreement will benefit U.S.-based public water systems nationwide that provide drinking water to a vast majority of Americans without the need for further litigation by or on behalf of public water systems.

The attorneys general had filed a similar letter last month relating to a separate, $1.18 billion settlement proposal between the company DuPont  and spinoffs Chemours and Corteva  and the water utilities.

Both the 3M and DuPont settlements involve massive class action litigation with public water suppliers that have already detected the presence of cancer-linked compounds known as PFAS, as well as those that might do so in the future.

Notorious for their ability to persist in both the human body and in the environment, these so-called forever chemicals  or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances  are found in certain types of firefighting foam and in many household items.

The companies involved in the proposed settlements, which specifically pertain to PFAS-laden firefighting foam, are among the major historic manufacturers of these toxic compounds.

The product, known as aqueous film forming foam (AFFF), has long been used to fight fuel-based fires at military bases, civilian airports and industrial sites.

In July, another Bonta-led group of 22 attorneys general took bipartisan legal action against 3Ms initial proposal  arguing that providers would be bound to the terms unless they actively opted out, all the while lacking information as to how much money they could receive.

At the time, the officials filed a motion to intervene and a document of opposition, also slamming 3Ms phrasing that the proposal is not an admission of liability.

In the amicus letter Monday night, the attorneys general credited the company for agreeing to eliminate the indemnification clause that they say would have unfairly shifted future liability from 3M to water suppliers that failed to proactively opt out.

They also acknowledged that the revised terms both provide public water providers with a method for estimating the payouts they could receive and grant these agencies 90 days to make that decision, rather than 60.

The attorneys general also agreed with moving forward because the revised proposal now makes clear in several places that claims filed by Bonta in a separate November 2022 lawsuit and other officials would not be impaired.

The modified terms also indicate that any proposed anti-suit injunction would ensure that states are free to submit PFAS-related claims against 3M.

At the same time, however, the amicus letter criticizes what the authors describe as a very protracted payment schedule that makes water suppliers bear the risk of 3Ms insolvency for over a decade  referring to 3Ms annual installment schedule from 2024 through 2036.

The total sum, the attorney generals contended, represents only a small percentage of the damages 3M allegedly inflicted upon water suppliers for eight decades.

Meanwhile, with water utilities unable to cover the full costs of drinking water monitoring and treatment, they will need to pass the additional costs on to ratepayers, according to the amicus letter.

3M declined to pay an amount that accurately reflects the extraordinary damage it has caused to public drinking water systems, and it declined to provide water suppliers the money to remediate that damage more quickly, Bonta said.

Our coalition has filed an amicus letter to make sure the court knows about our outstanding concerns, he added.

This story was updated at 4:31 p.m.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Correctional officers in Californias state prisons are poised to earn more than $1 billion worth of raises, retention bonuses and other perks as part of a new deal bargained between their union and Gov. Gavin Newsom s administration. The high-cost proposal comes as California works to reduce its prison population and closes facilities in the name of lowering prison spending.

The proposed two-year contract for the California Correctional Peace Officers Association comes loaded with financial benefits for the nearly 26,000 guards represented by the union across Californias 33 correctional facilities, according to a summary of the agreement. The California Department of Human Resources estimated the contract will cost more than $1 billion over the course of its lifespan.

All correctional officers will earn a 3% raise retroactive to July 1 of this year and another 3% raise next July. Theyll also earn an annual $1,200 health and wellness stipend, to be paid out in November of this year and next.

Thousands of guards at three hard-to-keep/hard-to-fill prisons  including Salinas Valley State Prison, California State Prison, Sacramento, near Folsom and Richard J. Donovan Correctional Facility in San Diego  will receive one-time retention bonuses totaling $10,000. New cadets at 13 facilities will be eligible for a $5,000 relocation bonus if they are required to move 50 or more miles away from their current home address.

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The contract discussions are going smoothly, and we have reached a tentative agreement that will first go through our internal process before we comment publicly about the substance of it, said union president Glen Stailey in a statement provided by spokesperson Nathan Ballard.

The guards union, known as known as CCPOA, also negotiated for additional retirement benefits to supplement each employees CalPERS pension. Each worker active as of Nov. 1, 2024, will receive a 401(k), to which the state will make a one-time contribution of $475. Then, starting with the January 2025 pay period, the state will make monthly retirement contributions of 1% of the guards monthly base salaries.

Other provisions in the agreement put additional dollars in CCPOA members pockets. The deal increases the premium pay for working nights and weekends from an extra $1.50 an hour to $2.50. Bilingual pay was upped from $100 to $200 a month. And workers who perform case workers for parole agents are eligible for a $100-a-month educational bonus if they hold an associate or bachelors degree.

The agreement needs ratification from the unions members, as well as the Legislature, plus a signature from Newsom before it can fully take effect.
An ethnic studies professor who was accused of claiming to be Native American has agreed to part ways next year with the University of California Riverside following a complaint filed by colleagues, documents show.

The separation agreement between the university and Andrea Smith, a tenured professor, cites a complaint signed by 13 faculty members alleging that Professor Smith has made fraudulent claims to Native American identity in violation of the Faculty Code of Conduct provisions concerning academic integrity.

Despite acknowledging the complaint, which was filed last year, the university did not launch a formal investigation and no findings were made regarding the allegations, according to the document obtained by CNN.

The separation agreement makes clear that Smith denies and disputes all allegations contained in the complaint. CNN has reached out to Smith for further comment.

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The nine-page separation agreement will bring a negotiated end to Professor Smiths employment with the university, university spokesperson John Warren said in a statement.

Warren declined to share the complaint filed by faculty noting, Its up to the signers to identify themselves.

Though the agreement was finalized in January, Smiths employment with the university will run through August 2024, at which time her resignation will take effect.

Until then, Smith remains eligible to teach all university courses for which she is qualified. She is currently listed on UCRs website as on sabbatical.

After her resignation date, Smith will be eligible to retire as emerita professor and receive UC benefits, according to the agreement.

Earlier this year, another California professor issued an apology for claiming to be Native American.

University of California Berkeley Associate Professor Elizabeth Hoover previously stated she grew up believing she was Mohawk on her mothers side and Mikmaq on her fathers, but that questions raised about her true identity had prompted her to do genealogical research, which resulted in her finding no records of tribal citizenship for any family members.

Hoover remains part of UC Berkeleys faculty.

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California Senate President Pro Tem Toni Atkins (D-San Diego) hugs Sen. Mike McGuire (D-Healdsburg) after he was named the successor to Atkins at the Capitol in Sacramento on Monday. (Rich Pedroncelli / Associated Press)

The California Senate will get a new leader after Democrats on Monday tapped a North Coast lawmaker as the next president pro tem of the upper house, marking a transition at the Legislature's top ranks from leaders who represent urban population centers to rising power for politicians from largely rural districts.

State Sen. Mike McGuire (D-Healdsburg) will take over for Senate President Pro Tem Toni Atkins (D-San Diego) at a yet-to-be-determined date in 2024, according to a statement issued by the two leaders. The transition in the Senate comes after a busy weekend of political wrangling over the succession. McGuire, 44, solidified his position with the support of Atkins, who terms out of office next year.

"I stand here proud to say that when the time comes next year, the next pro tem will be someone who has been a partner on my side for quite a number of legislative and political battles and with me through some of the most challenging times of governing," Atkins said at a news conference in the Capitol on Monday evening. "And I am just proud to be a partner with Sen. McGuire."

Sen. Mike McGuire, right, talks to reporters after he was named to succeed President Pro Tempore Toni Atkins as the new Senate leader at the Capitol in Sacramento. (Rich Pedroncelli / Associated Press)

McGuire praised Atkins as "one of the most thoughtful and effective leaders of our time."

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"It is an absolute honor to be surrounded by the members of this caucus, and I may get a little emotional because words are not enough to express the extent of my gratitude, honor and humility to be able to work with each and every one of you," McGuire said. "I promise that I'm going to lead with heart and humility and, at the right time, work to be able to continue the success that Toni Atkins has blazed the trail for."

The change represents a second reshuffling of power in the Legislature this year and, as a result, a diminished role for Southern California lawmakers. Assembly Speaker Robert Rivas (D-Hollister) replaced Lakewood lawmaker Anthony Rendon as the leader of the lower house this summer.

Read more: Robert Rivas sworn in as California Assembly speaker after long fight for power

A native Californian, McGuire is known in Sacramento for his work on wildfire and the environment, key issues to his constituents in a district that encompasses much of the Northern California coast from Del Norte County at the Oregon border down through Marin County.

McGuire, who terms out in 2026, has been an outspoken critic of Pacific Gas & Electric, calling out the company for not maintaining its equipment, failing to cut back vegetation around power lines and for causing wildfires. As a confidant and No. 2 to Atkins, McGuire was intimately involved in landing policy deals among the governor, Senate and Assembly on the infrastructure plan this year and the climate package last year.

"He's been able to carve out influence. He's been able to carve out what things look like at the end on legislation," said David McCuan, chair of the political science department at Sonoma State University. "Mike sees himself as a negotiator and a deal maker."

Atkins has led the Senate since 2018, when she was sworn in as the first woman and openly LGBTQ+ president pro tem in state history. She was named president pro tem of the Senate two years after serving as speaker of the Assembly, becoming the first legislator to hold both leadership posts since 1871.

Atkins grew up in poverty in rural southwestern Virginia, the daughter of a coal miner and a seamstress. Her upbringing motivates her work in the Legislature, where she's an advocate for women and families, with a focus on housing, affordability, reproductive freedom and environmental protection.

The president pro tem, who is among a pot of politicians considered to be future gubernatorial candidates, gave autonomy to committee chairs but also guided the Senate with a steady hand. She steered the upper house through the final year of former Gov. Jerry Brown's governorship and maintained a professional working relationship with Gov. Gavin Newsom in spite of tensions between Democrats over the governor's approach to policymaking.

Read more: Toni Atkins prepares to be first woman to have held the top job in both the California state Senate and Assembly

She's been at the helm of the Senate through a tumultuous time in state history, including the #MeToo movement, an anti-vaccine advocate throwing menstrual blood on the Senate floor, the Donald Trump era and the COVID-19 pandemic.

McGuire started his political career on the Healdsburg school board at age 19. He was elected to the Healdsburg City Council in 2004 and became the citys youngest mayor. He joined the Sonoma County Board of Supervisors in 2010 and was elected to the state Senate in 2014.

He works harder than anybody Ive ever seen in these jobs, and hes just proved himself time and time again," said state Sen. Bill Dodd (D-Napa), a friend and colleague of McGuire.

Though his ascension brings new power to the North Coast, becoming a legislative leader is often about timing and interpersonal relationships, said Andrew Acosta, a Democratic consultant.

Given that he terms out of the Senate in 2026, McGuire's tenure as president pro tem is expected to be short and a bridge between Atkins and whoever follows him.

"It's probably timing more than location," Acosta said. "And if the case is, 'Hey, I'm going to be the transitional pro tem for a couple years and then somebody else can put it together,' I can see people saying, like, 'Yeah, that works for me.'"

When asked about the limited time McGuire has left to serve, Atkins contended that "it's not the length of time, it's the quality of the leadership."

McGuire will take over at a challenging time, both economically and politically. California lawmakers were forced to trim their wish lists this year in light of a $32-billion budget shortfall, a downward trend some analysts suggest will continue in the years ahead.

Read more: Capitol Journal: In her historic rise to California Senate leader, Toni Atkins brings hope for a calmer era in the Capitol

The outcome of the 2024 presidential election will leave California lawmakers playing the role of cheerleaders during Joe Biden's second term or acting as the counterpunch to Republican rule in Washington. The supermajority of Democrats in the state Legislature also means leaders face demands and needs from more caucus members, whom they need to keep happy to stay in power.

McCuan described McGuire as both incredibly hard-working and a people pleaser. But Dodd said McGuire has had no problem telling him no over the years as majority leader.

"Hes able to deliver bad news or say no to all of us," Dodd said. "Ive been told no by Sen. McGuire many times."

McGuire is eyeing a run for insurance commissioner in 2026. He's raised more than $240,000 for the campaign from January through June.

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
The California attorney generals office filed a lawsuit on Monday against the Southern California-based Chino school district over a policy that requires parental notification if their kids change their gender identity. The lawsuit characterizes this policy, which the school board voted to enact last month, as a violation of both civil rights and privacy laws. Per the suit, the parental notification policy puts trans and gender-nonconforming students in danger of imminent, irreparable harm by outing them at home before they may be readyeven as fewer than one in three trans and nonbinary youths report being accepted by their families.



[T]he districts policy will force [trans and nonbinary students] to make a choice: either walk back their constitutionally and statutorily protected rights to gender identity and gender expression, or face the risk of emotional, physical and psychological harm from non-affirming or unaccepting parents or guardians, the lawsuit states. Through the suit, California Attorney General Rob Bonta (D) is asking the San Bernardino County Superior Court to immediately halt the policy.

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In response to the lawsuit, Chino Valley Unified has thrown up the usual bogus talking points. School board president Sonja Shaw told the Los Angeles Times that Gov. Gavin Newsom (D), Bonta, and Supt. of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond are a political cartel imposing perversion on children through their support for common-sense policies to protect and support queer youth.

Chino Valley Unified spokesperson Andi Johnston claimed to the Times that the districts policy also calls for teachers and school staff to notify child protective services or police if a student believes they are in danger or has been harmed by family members because of their gender identity. But this supposed solution is laughable considering schools could protect LGBTQ kids from being harmed or endangered at home in the first place by simply not outing them. According to the Trevor Project, more than half of trans and nonbinary people between 13 and 25 have seriously considered suicide, and about one in five have attempted it.

At Mondays news conference, referring to the school board members who support the policy, Bonta said, They have taken great pains to go out of their way, despite our warnings of the illegality of this action beforehand, to trample the rights of students, to trample the rights of children.

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Vivek Ramaswamy shakes hands with former Vice President Mike Pence after the two exchanged wildly divergent views of the United States at last Wednesday's GOP debate. (Morry Gash/Associated Press)

How dark has Republicans talk of a dystopian America gotten?

So dark that even other Republicans are objecting.

At one point in last weeks testy debate among eight rivals for the 2024 Republican presidential nomination, Vivek Ramaswamy asserted in apocalyptic echoes of Donald Trump (typical for the self-professed Trump 2.0): We're in the middle of a national identity crisis. The problem in our country right now  the reason we have that mental health epidemic  is that people are so hungry for purpose and meaning, at a time when family, faith, patriotism, hard work have all disappeared.

Disappeared? That was too much for Mike Pence, notwithstanding the fact that as Trumps vice president, hed stood supinely by for years as his boss spouted all manner of nonsense about a sickly nation fallen from greatness.

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We don't have an identity crisis, Vivek, Pence countered. We're not looking for a new national identity. The American people are the most faith-filled, freedom-loving, idealistic, hard-working people the world has ever known. We just need government as good as our people.

The unshameable Ramaswamy then mocked Pence by, of all things, evoking Ronald Reagans optimistic 1984 reelection campaign theme, Morning in America. Ramaswamy, who was born in 1985, seemed to suggest that old-fart Pence was hopelessly out of touch as he trotted out iconic but now sepia-toned imagery.

It is not morning in America, Ramaswamy insisted. We live in a dark moment, and we have to confront the fact that we're in an internal sort of cold cultural civil war.

The Republican Party has morphed from Reagans talk of this shining city on a hill to bleating echoes of Trumps American carnage.

That rhetoric of American decline even invaded Reagans presidential library in Simi Valley last March. Presidential aspirant and Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis , in a speech there, promoted his state as a refuge from a Democratic dystopia, where peoples rights were curtailed and their livelihoods were destroyed. (Pretty rich coming from DeSantis, who has signed laws curtailing rights for Florida women seeking abortions, parents seeking treatment for children with gender dysphoria, and teachers seeking to impart information to children about sexuality and Black history, and who's at war with the state's largest employer, Disney.)

Trumps 2017 inaugural address set the tone for Republicans, although at the time it provoked former President George W. Bush to mutter to others at the Capitol ceremony, That was some weird sh.

Even in the depths of war and depression, presidents didnt utter downers the way Trump did that day: Mothers and children trapped in poverty in our inner cities, rusted-out factories scattered like tombstones across the landscape of our nation; an education system flush with cash but which leaves our young and beautiful students deprived of all knowledge; and the crime and the gangs and the drugs that have stolen too many lives and robbed our country of so much unrealized potential. This American carnage stops right here and stops right now.

The rhetoric didnt change when Trump and his party were in charge of the government they love to loathe. That is because their dystopian vision fosters the racial, regional and class divides and the sense of grievance that is central to their political pitch.

As president, Trump along with other Republicans would rail against Democrat-run cities and blue states, California and New York most of all  as if those places were a nation apart, not his responsibility. To hear them tell it, only U.S. cities are hellscapes of crime, while ruby-red rural areas are oases of safety  never mind that crime, while still low compared to the peaks of the 1990s, rose everywhere during the COVID-19 pandemic. (Headline in the Wall Street Journal last year: Rural America Reels From Violent Crime.)

In a fundraising email Friday, Trump used his own criminal indictment in Georgia to decry Atlanta as a place where real criminals are terrorizing innocent families. He thoughtfully ended his money-grubbing appeal by saying, If you are doing poorly due to these very bad people who are letting America burn to the ground, then please dont donate.

Republicans used to slam Democrats for constantly bad-mouthing America. Now they do it routinely, facts be damned. The out-party has historically criticized conditions in the country, blaming problems on the party in power. But never has the shaming of the nation been so pronounced as it has been since Trump reshaped the Republican Party. In another fundraising email on Saturday, the loser decried Bidens Third World America.

The Third World should have it so good. Even the rest of the First World should be so lucky as to enjoy the United States advantages.

Trump wasnt at the Republican debate to referee the spat between his former vice president and his Mini-Me, Ramaswamy, or to offer his own take on the supposedly sorry state of the union. Instead, he vented to the deposed Fox News host Tucker Carlson on X, formerly known as Twitter. And it was particularly weird  stuff.

Fascists and radical-left lunatics  those are Trumps and Republicans standard names these days for the decidedly center-left Democratic Party  are destroying our country with the all-electric cars and the windmills all over the place, which, by the way, dont work, Trump said. He revived his old, odd lament that "Marxist" government regulations have left our sinks, showers and washing machines virtually without water. And he lied about immigration, of course, saying that South American countries are emptying their prisons. They are emptying out their mental institutions. Terrorists are pouring in.

Why arent we all fleeing across our borders to escape this awful American life? Because its not awful. Its time for more Republicans to say so, even when Democrats are in charge.

@jackiekcalmes

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
By Ismail Shakil

OTTAWA (Reuters) -Canada, citing the risk of potential dangers, is advising LGBTQ travelers planning trips to the United States to check how they might be affected by recently passed laws in some states, Ottawa said on Tuesday.

Anti-LGBTQ demonstrations in the United States last year rocketed 30-fold compared with 2017 and legal moves to restrict LGBTQ rights are on the rise.

Canada's travel advisory for the United States now includes a cautionary message for those who consider themselves two-spirit, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, questioning or intersex - or 2SLGBTQI+ for short.

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"Some states have enacted laws and policies that may affect 2SLGBTQI+ persons," the advisory says. "Check relevant state and local laws."

The advisory did not specify which states it was referring to.

The U.S. State Department said the United States was committed to "promoting tolerance, inclusion, justice, and dignity" while advancing the rights of the LGBTQ community and was prepared to work with like-minded partners from across the world in doing so.

Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland, asked why the advice had been updated, said the Canadian government employed experts "to look carefully around the world and to monitor whether there are particular dangers to particular groups of Canadians."

Speaking to reporters in Atlantic Canada, she added: "Every Canadian government ... needs to put at the centre of everything we do the interest and the safety of every single Canadian and every single group of Canadians. That's what we're doing now".

She declined to say whether any talks had been held with the Biden administration before making the change. The overall risk profile for the United States remains at green, indicating a normal security precautions requirement.

The United States is Canadians' top travel destination, and in June residents returned from about 2.8 million trips south of the border. About 1 million people, 4% of the Canadian population aged 15 years and older, are lesbian, gay, bisexual, or of another sexual orientation than heterosexual, according to official data released last year.

The largest LGBTQ advocacy organization in the United States, the Human Rights Campaign (HRC), has declared a national state of emergency, citing the proliferation of legislation in state capitols aimed at regulating the lives of queer people.

(Reporting by Ismail Shakil in Ottawa; Additional reporting by Kanishka Singh in Washington; Editing by Jonathan Oatis and Christopher Cushing)
The Women and Children's Building at Countess of Chester Hospital in England is seen Aug. 18, 2023. Lucy Letby, a former nurse at the hospital, was convicted of murdering seven babies, and attempting to murder six more, in the hospital's neonatal ward between 2015 and 2016. (Christopher Furlong/Getty Images)

The case of Lucy Letby, a serial killer masquerading as a nice neonatal nurse at Countess of Chester Hospital in Northern England, is so horrific as to beggar belief.

On Aug. 18, the 33-year-old Letby was convicted of murdering seven babies and attempting to murder six others between June 2015 and June 2016. Over the past few days, the British media has also reported on other mysterious infant deaths when Letby was present, suggesting that the total number of murders from a woman who has become known as the worst serial killer of children in British history was not fully accounted for in a country already wracked with anguish.

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British media have followed the case very closely, knowing it plays into so many of the deepest fears of parents who must trust medical professionals with their precious newborns. Following Letbys conviction and her sentence to life imprisonment without the possibility of parole, the chief prosecutor in the case put out a gut-wrenching statement.

Lucy Letby was entrusted to protect some of the most vulnerable babies, Pascale Jones said. Little did those working alongside her know that there was a murderer in their midst. She did her utmost to conceal her crimes, by varying the ways in which she repeatedly harmed babies in her care. She sought to deceive her colleagues and pass off the harm she caused as nothing more than a worsening of each babys existing vulnerability. In her hands, innocuous substances like air, milk, fluids, or medication like insulin would become lethal. She perverted her learning and weaponised her craft to inflict harm, grief and death.

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Perhaps the closest equivalent to this United Kingdom case came some years before and dealt with a similarly vulnerable population but one at the other end of lifes journey.

A primary care physician based outside Manchester, Harold Shipman, was found guilty in 2000 of murdering at least 15 patients under his care. Shipmans victims were elderly people who, of course, trusted him, as most of us would trust our doctors. But Shipman was a killer, not a healer, quietly murdering his victims either by dispensing a lethal dose of drugs or prescribing familiar medicine in quantities that led to a fatal overdose. Shipman, who became known as Dr. Death, later hanged himself in prison.

But while the medical profession in both cases went to considerable lengths to obscure what they really were doing, both were able to profit from a kind of built-in bias. Not every newborn survives, even in good hospitals, and were conditioned to think that there sometimes might be an air of mystery about their fate. Similarly, we are conditioned to believe that old people can die suddenly. As a consequence of those pervasive lines of thoughts, Shipman and Letby evaded discovery for enough time to kill more people.

In both cases, family members have demanded answers as to why it took so long. There is no question that part of the problem was that those who had misgivings about the sudden rise in deaths had to overcome the general assumption that medical professionals are to be trusted.

In the Letby case, in which the wounds are fresh and open, parents have focused on the nurses former boss, director of nursing Alison Kelly, who has been accused of ignoring concerns. Kelly is being investigated on fitness to practice concerns. Also under longtime scrutiny is hospital medical director Dr. Ian Harvey, who has been accused of ignoring concerns raised by doctors early in Letbys killing spree. Some staffers have said he was protective of Letby and, in British parlance, fobbed off complaints from concerned colleagues.

Incredibly, Letby was the only staffer present in June 2015 when three premature babies died at the hospital. Reportedly, it was the equivalent of an average years worth of deaths at the hospital occurring in just two weeks. By the end of that October, Letby had been alone in the room even as seven premature babies had died.

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Premature babies die, it was deemed at the time, and Letby was merely unlucky to be the nurse standing there. But with hindsight, it is stunning that no one dug deeper early on, given what Letby was actually doing, including poisoning the babies with insulin. Had they done so, many more babies would be alive now.

What are the lessons here on this side of the Atlantic?

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For one, effective medical teamwork requires looking out for malevolent colleagues. However rare they may be, the Shipman and Letby cases prove they do exist. For another, family members deserve, and should always demand, full disclosure about what happened to their loved ones who die while medical professionals are present. While death is sometimes shrouded in the unknown, that truth must not be allowed to prevent families being sure they are comfortable that what transpired was inevitable. And, for a third, medical directors and other hospital administrators must cultivate open door policies so that whistleblowers are willing to come forward with any misgivings.

Much of that requires often harried medical professionals to build in more redundancies, as well as peer checks and balances. Nobody wants to be under the constant scrutiny of their peers, but these were life-or-death matters, and a normal human reluctance to consider the worst, enabled the loss of innocent life and unspeakable anguish.

This happened in a well-respected hospital. Pride must be swallowed and systems rebuilt and maintained so it never happens again. Anywhere.

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Submit a letter, of no more than 400 words, to the editor here or email letters@chicagotribune.com.
OTTAWA (Reuters) - Canada has detected its first case of coronavirus infection from the highly mutated BA.2.86 variant of Omicron in a person in British Columbia who had not traveled outside the Pacific province, health officials said on Tuesday.

The individual is not hospitalized, and the detection of BA.2.86 virus has not changed the risk to people in British Columbia, the province's top doctor, Bonnie Henry , and Health Minister Adrian Dix said in a joint statement.

"It was not unexpected for BA.2.86 to show up in Canada and the province," they said. "COVID-19 continues to spread globally, and the virus continues to adapt."

The BA.2.86 lineage, first detected in Denmark last month, carries more than 35 mutations in key portions of the virus compared with XBB.1.5, the dominant variant through most of 2023. The United States, Switzerland and Israel have also recorded cases of the new variant.

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The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said last week the BA.2.86 variant may be more capable of causing infection in people who have previously had COVID-19 or who have received preventive vaccines.

Scientists have said that while it was important to monitor BA.2.86, it was unlikely to cause a devastating wave of severe disease and death given immune defenses built up worldwide from vaccination and prior infection.

Canadian health authorities have noted an uptick in COVID infections in recent weeks, though virus activity remains relatively low, Health Canada said in a weekly update earlier on Tuesday.

(Reporting by Ismail Shakil; Editing by Sandra Maler)
In this monochrome photograph taken by Michael Miley in 1866, Confederate Gen. Robert E. Lee is pictured on his horse, Traveller. | Wikimedia Commons

According to a student publication at Washington and Lee University in Virginia, cancel culture has come for a horse: Traveller, the gray Saddlebred that was a favorite mount of Confederate Gen. Robert E. Lee.

Citing confidential sources, the W&L Spectator last month published photographs and a video that the student journalists said showed the removal of plaques honoring the horse. One was at Travellers grave.

Another plaque, which was on a brick building that was formerly a stable, said: The last home of Traveller. Through war and peace the faithful, devoted and beloved horse of General Robert Lee. Placed by the Virginia Division, United Daughters of the Confederacy.

According to The W&L Spectator, Every president since Robert E. Lee has lived in the house and used its stables as their garage. Campus tradition dictates that the doors to the stable must remain open for the ghost of Traveller to come and go at will.

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Traveller was euthanized in 1871, a year after his owners death; the horse contracted equine tetanus from what was believed to be a rusty nail. For a time, his skeletal remains were on display, but they are now buried outside a university chapel and museum.

The marker at the gravesite once looked like this:

The grave of Traveller, Confederate Gen. Robert E. Lees horse, is marked by apples at Washington and Lee University in Virginia on Nov. 15, 2014. | Victor Grigas, Wikimedia Commons

According to the student publication, the grave now only bears the name of the horse, and the years of his birth and death.

After a 24 hour blitz, university officials have removed and replaced Travellers headstone with a new one lacking historical context.



Photo Credit: Anonymous pic.twitter.com/vFl6D5m54U  The W&L Spectator (@wluspectator) July 15, 2023

Of course, this isnt really a case of cancel culture, in which there is an attempt to damage the reputation or livelihood of a person (or horse) because of something they said or did.

Evan Nierman, the author of The Cancel Culture Curse, defines cancellation as the use of intimidation by a morally absolute coalition to isolate and disproportionately punish an alleged transgressor. The attempted cancellation of the Budweiser Clydesdales earlier this year more aptly fits that bill.

The debate over how Traveller will be represented on the grounds of the university, if at all, is of a much more serious nature.

A university spokesman told the student journalists last month that the plaques were being relocated to a new permanent exhibit set to open this fall. Another said the campus was in the midst of ongoing construction projects  including those in University Chapel.

There is, of course, no way to separate the horses fame from that of his owner, who rode Traveller in multiple battles, and also rode him home after surrendering at Appomattox. And Lee, despite his post-war efforts to reunite the country, is persona non grata in much of America today.

In 2021, the universitys board voted to preserve its name despite calls from students and faculty to drop the Lee. The school is named for both George Washington and Lee, who was president of what was then called Washington College from 1865 to 1870.

Lee is buried underneath the chapel, near his beloved horse. The chapel was once named for Lee, but has since been renamed University Chapel, amid ongoing controversy over posthumous honors given leaders of the Confederacy.

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Virginia has been at the center of numerous controversies, including the removal of Confederate monuments in Richmond, in a push that began after the murder of nine African Americans at a church in Charleston, South Carolina, in 2015, and was renewed after the killing of George Floyd in 2020.

Writing on the Traveller controversy, George Washington University Law School professor Jonathan Turley said, The preserving of such memorials allows for the public to see the full historical continuum, including the painful chapters in that history.

But, he added, It can never be forgotten that Lee fought for the South in a struggle against slavery. The stain of slavery in our history is indelible and painful for all of us. However, we can reflect that contextual history and preserve the history ... and spare the horse.
The trial for a Wyandotte County commission candidate who is accused of battery in Topeka municipal court was delayed Tuesday at the request of his lawyer.

At a brief hearing, the attorney for Tarence Maddox said there is a good chance the case will settle before trial. The lawyer, Jeffrey Jones, withdrew Maddoxs not guilty plea. His next court appearance was set for Oct. 3.

Maddox, 40, could face jail time if convicted of the two misdemeanor charges. He is a candidate in the Nov. 7 general election for the District 4 seat on the Unified Governments Board of Commissioners, a seat he held a decade ago.

The charges stem from an Oct. 14, 2022, incident. Shortly after 6 p.m. that day, an officer in Overbrook pulled Maddox over for speeding in Osage County, police said. The officer took Maddox, who allegedly had a suspended drivers license, into custody.

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Maddox began complaining of medical issues, so the officer accompanied an ambulance to The University of Kansas Health System campus in Topeka.

Once there, Maddox was combative and uncooperative with hospital staff, Overbrook Police Chief Eric Carlson said in a statement at the time. During an altercation, security officers used a Taser on Maddox, and Topeka officers were called to help subdue him, police said.

Carlson said none of his officers was injured during the incident. After Maddox was released by the hospital, he was taken to the Shawnee County jail, where he bonded out.

A police report lists two men as the victims in the case: a nurse and an Overbook officer.

Maddox was charged in Topeka Municipal Court with two counts: Battery, intentionally causing contact in a rude, insulting or angry manner, a Class B misdemeanor, and battery against a law enforcement officer, a Class A misdemeanor.

He faces up to six months in jail and a $1,000 fine if convicted of the first charge, and up to a year in jail with a fine of $2,500 if convicted of the second one, a city spokesperson said.

Months after the incident, Maddox filed to run in an attempt to regain his old seat on Wyandotte Countys governing board.

Maddoxs attorney declined to comment after the hearing. Maddox did not respond to a call or text seeking comment.

In a Facebook video in January, Maddox said the news months earlier  when KCTV5 reported on his arrest  may have left viewers thinking he lost his mind. He described the allegations as false.

I aint never lost my mind, he said. Im well centered, Im well grounded, I meditate weekly.  We all fall short every now and then, but at the end of the day, them lies that be told, theyre going to be unmasked in the coming weeks and all that kind of stuff.

The charges mark the latest legal trouble for Maddox, who has had a tumultuous political career. He was censured twice when he was a UG commissioner from 2011 to 2015 for, among other things, threatening to sic county inspectors on a gas station owner and throwing a fit at Legoland, which led to his later conviction for disorderly conduct.

Maddox lost his seat in the 2015 election to Harold Johnson, who has held the seat since then. Johnson is not seeking reelection.

Maddox, who is president of the NAACP branch in KCK, is running against Evelyn Hill, a consultant who served from 2014 to 2017 as president of the Kansas City, Kansas Board of Education. They beat out two other candidates in the August primary election.

Of the 512 votes cast in that summer race, Hill came out on top with 190, while Maddox got 130. One of them will represent residents who live between the downtown KCK government district and the Northeast, as well as part of the Kensington neighborhood.
As Tropical Storm Idalia approaches, Georgia officials are urging citizens to prepare for severe weather.

On Monday, Gov. Brian Kemp ordered the State Operations Center be activated to monitor and prepare for any impact caused by Tropical Storm Idalia, which is currently forecast to make landfall on Wednesday in Florida as a Category 3 hurricane.

Meteorologists expect the storm to weaken to a Category 1 hurricane as the center moves into southeast Georgia, according to the latest predictions. Tropical storm force winds and heavy rainfall will increase throughout the morning and continue through Wednesday night.

The National Weather Service anticipates Tropical Storm Idalia to make landfall Wednesday.

"Though the system will likely weaken before crossing our border, were not taking anything for granted," Kemp wrote in a statement. "As the week progresses, I will work closely with (the Georgia Emergency Management Agency and Homeland Security), the weather service, public safety organizations, and others to ensure we leave nothing to chance."

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The National Weather Service reported Monday a hazardous weather outlook is in effect for Richmond, Columbia, Aiken and Burke counties. The greatest potential for flooding will occur Wednesday and Thursday.

Georgia Emergency Management suggests citizens follow these tips to protect their property and stay safe during the storm:

What to do before a tropical storm or hurricane

Prepare a ready kit, make a family communications plan and make an evacuation plan.

Become familiar with terms that are used to identify a hurricane  be prepared to evacuate when a tropical storm/hurricane watch is issued. If local authorities advise evacuation during a tropical storm/hurricane warning, leave immediately.

Cover all windows with hurricane shutters or boards to protect them from high winds. Tape does not prevent windows from breaking.

Plan to bring in all outdoor furniture, decorations, garbage cans and anything else that is not tied down.

Keep all trees and shrubs well trimmed to make them more wind-resistant.

Fill car gas tanks in case evacuation is needed.

Plan ahead for pets.

Know the area's flood risk. If unsure, call the local emergency management agency or visit Flood Smart.

The National Weather Service provides the following information about hurricane hazard risks.

What to do during a tropical storm or hurricane

Listen to NOAA Weather Radio, watch TV, listen to the radio or check the internet often for official news and instructions as they become available.

Secure the home, close storm shutters and secure outdoor objects or bring them indoors.

Stay indoors and away from windows and glass doors. Close all interior doors.

Turn off utilities if instructed to do so. Otherwise, turn the refrigerator thermostat to its coldest setting and keep the doors closed. Also, learn how to keep food safe in an emergency.

Turn off propane tanks.

Avoid using the phone, except for serious emergencies.

Moor boats, if time permits.

Have a supply of water for cleaning and flushing toilets. Fill the bathtub and other larger containers with water.

Avoid elevators.

What to do after a tropical storm or hurricane

Stay out of flood waters and be alert for tornadoes.

Stay away from downed power lines to avoid the risk of electric shock or electrocution.

Do not return home until local authorities say it is safe. Even after the hurricane and after flood waters recede, roads may be weakened and could collapse. Buildings may be unstable and drinking water may be contaminated.

The National Weather Service provides the following tips for updating insurance.

Insurance tips for Georgians

Georgia Insurance and Safety Fire Commissioner John F. King on Monday released a number of tips for Georgia consumers to protect themselves and their families before and after the storm.

King suggests Georgians follow these tips:

Before the storm, make a list of all covered items (furniture, electronics, appliances, valuables, etc). Make sure to keep an electronic copy of this list, which should include pictures.

Write down and photograph all property damage brought by Hurricane Idalia, including broken windows, damaged roofs and lost personal items.

Notify insurance companies of any damages immediately.

Do not attempt significant or permanent repairs. If it is safe to do so, cover roofs with a tarp or board up broken windows, but leave the significant repairs to the experts.

Save all receipts to file claims with insurance companies.

Beware of contractor scammers. Do not believe a contractor who says they are supported by the government. The Federal Emergency Management Agency does not endorse individual contractors or loan companies. Call FEMA toll-free at 800-621-FEMA for more information.

To reach King's office, call 1-800-656-2298."

Latest Augusta weather update: NWS hazardous weather outlook in effect as Idalia approaches

This article originally appeared on Augusta Chronicle: Officials explain how to prepare for Tropical Storm Idalia, offer tips
A night of country music, Bible verses, praying, making fun of President Joe Biden and campaigning brought voters from across South Carolina to Rep. Jeff Duncans 12th annual Barbecue, where Florida Gov. and GOP presidential hopeful, Ron DeSantis was supposed to headline the event.

However, DeSantis stayed in Florida as they brace for Tropical Storm Idalia. Instead, his wife Casey spoke about DeSantis policies and gave his usual campaign speech for him, while adding her own twist on being a mother and how her husband is the choice for president. Casey DeSantis spoke at the end of the event, after DeSantis presidential competitor Sen. Tim Scott gave a 10 minute speech as just a senator at the event, despite most of his speech highlighting what he would do as president.

About 2,000 people poured into the Sports and Entertainment Center in Anderson, where attendees came out for all reasons, some to get to know the two GOP candidates better and others to enjoy and support Duncans annual gathering. Some expressed disappointment that DeSantis wasnt there himself, while others called his absence admirable.

The tables were lined with red, white and blue tablecloth, mini American flags and pro-God, pro-gun, pro-life signs. A live band, New River Blue Grass, played God Bless the U.S.A as attendees made their way in. South Carolina GOP Chairman Drew McKissick kicked off the event with speakers and singers who sang the national anthem, did the pledge and said a prayer. Right before introducing Duncan, McKissick had a bit of a fumble with his words and called Jeff Davis, up to the stage, a former challenger to McKissick when he ran for party chairman.

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Duncan mentioned the fetal heartbeat bill during his speech, where he said thank God it was passed.

U.S. Rep. Russel Fry, R-Myrtle Beach, began his speech with yall ready to fire Joe Biden next year? as the crowd cheered. Attorney General Alan Wilson also spoke, as did Ellen Weaver, the state superintendent of education.

While DeSantis was absent, his presence was definitely not.

Hundreds of red Never Back Down signs lined the road up to the center. A campaign bus sat outside the venue with a tent selling DeSantis T-shirts and apparel.

Scott, however, had a minimal campaign presence compared to the Florida governor, even though Scott was the only GOP candidate present at the event. He was invited because he is one of the states U.S. senators, and spent the day campaigning throughout South Carolina with town hall stops in Charleston, Lexington and Greenville.

Scott gave his usual spiel during his speech about stopping China from interfering with land, education and technology, the southern border, transgender individuals in womens sports and parental choice in education.

Our party is a party founded on freedom, Scott said. We need a president who stands up for life.

Senator and Republican presidential candidate Tim Scott speaks to the annual Faith and Freedom Barbecue on Monday, August 28, 2023. In his speech, Scott jumped off stage and spoke about border control, faith and his political philosophy.

He also mentioned abortion on demand, a controversial memo that Republicans use to describe late-term abortions. Scott also brought up his faith multiple times throughout his speech, repeating a Bible verse in the book of John, and told the crowd we need to get back to the basics.

He spoke of his upbringing in a single parent household, his childhood friends being shot or buried, and praised law enforcement for its work to protect communities.

We need to restore respect and admiration for law enforcement, Scott said to the crowd. When you demonize and demoralize the profession, fewer and fewer people want to do it.

Halfway through his speech, he got off the podium and started walking around the tables to attendees as he spoke about the southern border.

Both Scott and DeSantis books were being sold at the back of the event, America, A Redemption Story and The Courage to Be Free.

Five minutes before the event officially started, videos of Biden tripping, making mistakes or falling asleep played to upbeat music on the screen.

After Scott spoke, Duncan gave out awards and honored different parts of the military and law enforcement. Duncan said he and Ron have a great friendship, and described the conversation he had with Ron about not attending the event due to the storm.

I told him, you need to be right where you are, Duncan said.

Representative Jeff Duncan speaks to the annual Faith and Freedom Barbeque on Monday, August 28, 2023. During the event, he thanked first responders and invited presidential primary candidates to speak.

Before introducing the Florida first lady, Duncan recounted his time with Ron serving in the military and complimented his time on the campaign trail and his time as governor.

Before she came up, a pre-recorded video of Ron played, introducing his wife and thanking Duncan. He also did his usual campaign spiel about securing the border, ending Bidenomics and ending the weaponization of government.

Casey stepped onto the stage as This Girl is on Fire by Alicia Keys played. She brought up her children for a majority of the first part of the speech, making some jokes about their family trip to the first Republican debate.

If Hunter Biden is making millions of dollars off of his finger paint, why cant we just put our stuff on eBay and see how it goes, Casey said to the crowd, referencing her children wanting to draw on walls.

Casey DeSantis went on to talk about Bidens failure as a president, her husbands journey as governor and how he handled COVID-19. She talked about getting the swamp out of Washington, and her husbands policies on the southern border, parental choice in education, and rejecting the wokeness in the military.

You know when you put Ron DeSantis up in the White House he is going to stand up for your interests and he is never going to back down. We need a president with backbone.

She repeated some of her husbands usual campaign spiel about putting Biden back in his basement and ending the weaponization of government. She also spoke about DeSantis upbringing, giving a similar feel to Scotts usual speech about making it on your own.

I think she probably did better than Ron would have done, Duncan said after Casey DeSantis spoke.

Lucy Palmer, a retired elementary school teacher from Anderson S.C., came to the event with her husband, a retired Marine, who was part of the flag ceremony.

Palmer said she likes DeSantis because he speaks to what he believes in. She expected Casey DeSantis to have very similar remarks to what DeSantis would have said.

Palmer said shes undecided for who she would vote for, but was not a fan of former president Trump. DeSantis was her top pick at the moment, because of the way he carried himself and stuck to his beliefs.

I dont think hes quite ready, Palmer said when asked about Scott. Hes a nice man and hes done a good job of Senator, but I dont think hes ready.

She said the same remarks about former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley.

Sherry Debruyn, a retired medical assistant who had lived in Anderson for more than 30 years, said it was admirable of DeSantis to stay in Florida, and she was excited to hear from Casey.

He should be there. For her to give the speech, itll be a different flavor from a womens point of view but she has got to be on board with his policies, and will express them a little differently, but thats cool, Debruyn said. I think itll be very neat to hear a womens perspective on the whole thing and persuading us on why hes the very best candidate.

Jeff Duncans 12th annual Faith and Freedom Barbeque on Monday, August 28, 2023. The event is an opportunity for primary candidates to speak to Republican voters.

Debruyn said she was undecided as far as who she would vote for, but was leaning more toward Scott because he is a vocal christian, but said she could also vote for DeSantis.

That to me, is the foundation of his policies, which is something I agree with, she said in response to Scotts faith. But DeSantis has also shown he has a heart for the people.

Despite him being a great candidate, Debruyn said she wished DeSantis had waited till 2028 to run for president.

Carol and Joseph Ball traveled to the event from Senegal. At their table, a new copy of Tim Scotts book sat next to her purse, with hopes of it possibly being signed by Scott.

Scott was their top choice for a candidate because of his rhetoric on issues and not being as divisive as some of the other candidates.

I like his ideas about trying to bring the country back together instead of dividing it, Carol said.

They didnt expect Casey to be too different from what DeSantis would have said. Carol said Casey was very well-spoken and on point. Joseph said DeSantis is good, but he is a little bit too far right.

If were going to take this, we need someone thats more centric, Joseph said. Some of his actions in Florida are divisive. Not to the extent of Trump, but he does have a little bit of that with him. Tim Scott is more centered and I think he would draw more on the moderates, he might even pull some moderate Democrats better than DeSantis would.

Both Carol and Joseph said Haley would be an excellent vice president, but that she didnt have the backing and the polling to get to the front and win the election.

Kaye Dina, a retired insurance agent from New York, and her son Johnathan Vizzini, who works in management for a pool company in Connecticut, came to the event together. Vizzini was visiting his mother, who moved to South Carolina a year ago.

They both plan to vote for Trump, and added their minds were pretty made up, but were both curious to hear from the other candidates, specifically DeSantis.
Idaho Rep. Lori McCann , a Republican from Lewiston, is fighting back against the far right fringe of her party after she was censured by the Latah County Republican Central Committee.

Its a bigger issue than just me and Latah County, McCann told the Statesmans Nicole Blanchard in an interview. Its about Idaho GOP politics and whats going on in our entire state. Theres a lot of mistreatment against some real good legislators who are more in the middle or are trying to work with all the Republicans.

As Blanchard notes, McCann replaced Aaron von Ehlinger, a state representative who raped a statehouse volunteer.

Its incredible  but telling  that the Idaho Republican Party spends more time chastising someone like McCann than they ever did condemning a convicted rapist like von Ehlinger.

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Just so were clear, when we talk about far-right extremists, were talking about those who, while they think theyre defending the Constitution, are actually infringing on the rights of American citizens by taking away their access to medical care, in the cases of women seeking an abortion  even in cases of rape, incest and danger to the health of the mother  and transgender youth seeking gender-affirming care.

Far-right extremism is imposing government will in between a citizen and their medical provider in making health care decisions.

By far-right extremists, were talking about those who seek to infringe on First Amendment rights by banning library books and subjecting librarians and library districts to lawsuits from far-right extremists who dont like that a book has a gay character in it.

Were talking about those who make up terms like critical social justice and create myths about indoctrination and a homosexual agenda in an attempt to vilify public education, calling public schools government indoctrination camps. They seek to defund higher education and public schools and redirect taxpayer money toward private schools through vouchers.

When we talk about far-right extremism, were talking about people who want to disenfranchise voters and make it more difficult to vote because they got duped by a charlatan telling them an election was rigged, without any evidence or proof.

In a twist of irony, these far-right extremists decry the label while at the same time labeling anything they disagree with as being communist.

When did public health, public education, public libraries and protecting the rights of all citizens, regardless of sexual orientation and gender identity, become communist? Do they even know what communism is?

The far rights views would be laughable if they werent so dangerous.

McCann, along with other sane, reasonable Republicans, such as Rep. Matt Bundy, of Mountain Home; Rep. Mark Sauter, of Sandpoint; and Rep. Julie Yamamoto , of Caldwell, has been censured by their party for taking reasonable positions on some of these issues.

These censures by central committees smack of the Soviet politburo, where disloyalty to the party could get you a spot on the firing line.

Whereas, the special investigating committee held meetings between May 1, 2023 and June 21, 2023, met with and received comments from Representative Lori McCann about her voting record, reads the central committees resolution.

This is the kind of nonsense we can expect from the cranks and crackpots who have taken over the Idaho Republican Party.

This editorial board doesnt agree with all of McCanns votes, and we were especially disappointed last session when she voted in favor of a government ban on gender-affirming health care for transgender youth.

But really whats at issue here is the Idaho Republican Partys move to the far right through the control of the party machine by a small ideological minority within the party. These censures are a way to either force good legislators like McCann, Bundy, Yamamoto and Sauter to fall in line and simply do the bidding of these fringe actors, even when its against their better judgment and beliefs, or use the censures against them in a closed Republican primary so that they can install more far-right candidates, as weve seen in recent years, such as Sen. Tammy Nichols, Scott Herndon, Brian Lenney and Chris Trakel.

If anything, voters can use these censures as a guide to vote for the candidates who get censured.

A censure from a Republican central committee should be worn as a badge of honor, a sign that censured legislators are reasonable and measured. And most of all, they can think for themselves.

Statesman editorials are the unsigned opinion of the Idaho Statesmans editorial board. Board members are opinion editor Scott McIntosh, opinion writer Bryan Clark, editor Chadd Cripe, newsroom editors Dana Oland and Jim Keyser and community members Mary Rohlfing and Patricia Nilsson.
Passed by voters in November, Measure ULA places a transfer tax on property sales above $5 million in L.A. (Los Angeles Times photo illustration; photos via Getty Images)

The Los Angeles City Council passed a $150-million spending plan for funds raised by Measure ULA on Tuesday, marking the first time funds will be specifically allocated since Angelenos passed the tax in November.

The expenditure plan will be directed to six programs: short-term emergency rental assistance, eviction defense, tenant outreach and education, direct cash assistance for low-income seniors and people with disabilities, tenant protections, and affordable housing production.

This is the largest source of revenue, thats going to be consistent, that this city has access to for these uses ever, said Councilmember Nithya Raman. Its really transformative for Los Angeles.

Of the $150 million, $23 million will go toward eviction defense, $23 million will go toward income support for rent-burden seniors, and $18.4 million will go toward rent debt assistance.

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The first program to be implemented will be an emergency rental assistance program, which will open Sept. 19.

Dubbed a mansion tax, Measure ULA took effect April 1, bringing a 4% charge on all residential and commercial real estate sales in the city above $5 million and a 5.5% charge on sales above $10 million.

Since April, the tax has raised roughly $55 million. City officials said ULA money can be spent only as it comes in, so the city wont be able to use the full $150 million until the tax generates $150 million.

Read more: Celebs dodged millions in L.A.s mansion tax. Meet the industry guarding their wealth

Before the vote at Tuesday's meeting, about a dozen tenants and community activists expressed support for the funding, saying it is desperately needed, especially in the tenant-outreach and eviction-defense programs.

I am  excited that tenants will also have an opportunity to be legally represented in court and that landlords will not be the only ones with an attorney during an eviction, said Karely De La Cruz, a civic engagement organizer with TRUST South L.A. Because housing is a human right.

We really need you all to pass the ULA plan today. That money belongs to the community, said Chad Williams, an L.A. organizer for the Alliance of Californians for Community Empowerment.

Joe Donlin, director of United to House LA, the coalition that brought Measure ULA onto the ballot, vowed that the coalition will stand together during the implementation process to make sure every dollar is spent effectively.

While $55 million is a significant amount of funding toward L.A.s housing crisis, its still a far cry from original projections of how much the tax would raise.

Early proponents of Measure ULA estimated the tax would raise roughly $900 million per year. In March, a report from the City Administrative Office lowered that number to $672 million.

But once the tax took effect, L.A.s luxury market froze. Only two homes sold for more than $5 million in the month of April, and the market hasnt quite recovered since.

Part of the blame can be placed on the overall state of the real estate market thats still hungover from historic pandemic sales and rising mortgage rates. But many luxury homeowners have simply decided to avoid the tax, either by refusing to sell their homes or hiring accountants and tax specialists to find loopholes.

As a result, Mayor Karen Basss first budget proposal, a $13.1-billion plan, projected only $150 million in revenue from Measure ULA.

The $150-million mark is both a product of a slowing real estate market and an emergency backup plan in case the measure gets overturned. If it does, the city has to pay back all the funds raised by the tax.

At the moment, the measure must overcome two major hurdles: an ongoing court case arguing that the tax is unconstitutional and a state ballot measure that Californians will vote on next year.

Barely begun, the court case has already seen its fair share of drama. Superior Court Judge Barbara Scheper recently became the third judge presiding over the case. The previous judge, Joseph Lipner, recused himself after one of the plaintiffs attorneys complained that he had a conflict of interest because he had previously worked at a law firm that represents the Southern California Assn. of Nonprofit Housing, the Real Deal reported.

Meanwhile, the 2024 ballot measure, called the Taxpayer Protection and Government Accountability Act, would require two-thirds voter approval for new local special tax hikes dating back to January 2022, therefore dismantling Measure ULA, which received 57% approval.

Even if the measure is eventually overturned, the full $150 million will be spent, according to Councilmember Bob Blumenfield.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
This summer, a Charlotte-area family completed a quest thats been four years in the making, becoming Ultimate Outsiders by visiting all 47 South Carolina State Parks.

Celebrating its 10th anniversary this month, the Ultimate Outsider program launched in 2013 to spread out the visitation to state parks and get people to find some of South Carolinas little hidden gems, said Gwen Davenport, director of sales and marketing for the state park service.

So far, 3,763 people out of the states 5.1 million residents have joined this elite group, with Adam and Ashley ODaniel of Rock Hill and their sons Ayden, 12; Asher, 10; and Avett, 7, being among the latest inductees.

The ODaniels documented their entire journey on Instagram as The A-Team Adventures, with photos, videos and a short review about each park.

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Shortly after getting their last stamps on July 30 at Poinsett and earning T-shirts, certificates, a social media shoutout and a spot in the Ultimate Outsider community, Adam ODaniel spoke with CharlotteFive to break down their journey.

The ODaniels Ultimate Outsider certificates.

How the A-Teams state park adventure began

For the past few years, the ODaniels have celebrated Fathers Day by going to a state park or taking a similar outdoor adventure. Through that tradition, they learned about the Ultimate Outsider program.

We love to be outdoors and thought it would be a really cool way to spend family time together as our boys are growing up, ODaniel said. It just seemed like a fun way to make a challenge out of exploring our home state.

They earned their first stamp in March 2019 on ODaniels birthday by visiting Andrew Jackson State Park in Lancaster County. It was an easy afternoon near home, where they explored the historic schoolhouse, saw a musket demonstration and learned about the life of the former president.

The ODaniel at Andrew Jackson State Park.

And the adventures just took off from there.

Their strategy: Make fun experiences

While some Outdoor Adventurers have rushed through the parks, collecting all stamps in as little as a week, the ODaniels wanted to make the most of each visit.

We based our whole strategy around what would be fun experiences for our family to explore together, ODaniel said. It took us four and a half years, but it never felt like a burden or deadline.

Some of the A-Teams most memorable experiences included Table Rock State Park in the northwest corner of Pickens County, where they camped, swam in a lake, hiked miles of mountain trails and took in some of the best views in the state.

The ODaniel children at Table Rock.

They also loved Hunting Island State Park  a coastal barrier island near Beaufort with a lighthouse and an undisturbed natural beach accessible by a half mile walk. That beach, with all of its driftwood and shells, was something like a movie scene, ODaniel said.

One of the great things about South Carolina is just how diverse the state is, ODaniel said. On one hand, you have beachfront state parks and the other side of the state has mountains.

The ODaniel family also loved all of the animal encounters along their journey. They witnessed a sea turtle nest inventory at Edisto Beach when a park ranger took them to look for stragglers. They helped three or four little hatchlings find the ocean that day, ODaniel said.

A sea turtle nest excavation at Edisto Beach.

The A-Team also saw plenty of birds, alligators, deer, fox squirrel and other critters  including one snake encounter that was too close to call.

We were in the middle of nowhere at a state park on the way to Myrtle Beach, and we saw this gigantic water moccasin on the boardwalk. It was a little scary, but also memorable. The kids didnt understand how dangerous it could have been to have such an encounter with a venomous snake, ODaniel said.

But what about parks that arent that remarkable?

While South Carolina has many standout parks, some are more functional than a full experience. ODaniel believes those sites are just as important.

There are several state parks where its clear that their only purpose is to give folks in those local communities a place where they can all enjoy the great outdoors, ODaniel said. Theres nothing really that remarkable about them, so if youre not from the area youre likely not going to go back.

But ODaniel believes the importance of setting aside public land to preserve nature and history is critical.

A little roadside state park that just has a playground, nature trail and fishing pond is still a meaningful space to the people who live in that county, ODaniel said. As a resident of S.C., I already own 90,000 acres of land through the park system. I can appreciate the mountaintop parks as well as the little pocket parks.

Recommendations for others

I would 10 out of 10 recommend the Ultimate Outsider challenge, ODaniel said. But make sure you dont rush. Enjoy the journey. Take time to hike the trails. Enjoy the beach. Do the campground. The point is to go see the state and be outdoors, not just get the stamps.

For CharlotteFive readers, ODaniel recommends starting with the parks near Charlotte. He said Kings Mountain State Park has everything  trails, lakes, camping and even a staircase waterfall. Landsford Canal is a great place to go kayaking.

The ODaniel family traverses Kings Mountain Spillway.

Chester State Park is on my list of sleepers, ODaniel said. People look over it, but its very peaceful and very well-maintained. Weve been back two or three times. Its just a great place to get outside, play and have a good time.

Whats next for the A-Team?

The ODaniels look forward to returning to several of the state parks, especially along the Savannah River chain of lakes. But they also have their sights set on a bigger stage.

Wed love to explore more of the national parks as a family, especially as the boys get older, ODaniel said, noting they visited several parks in Utah this summer. Sure, wed love to see them all, but the time and budget involved is on a whole other level. Its all about the journey, though. Who knows  maybe one day well get there.

One A Team Adventure took the ODaniel family to check out a bald eagle at Charlestown.

In the meantime, the ODaniels will enjoy being an Ultimate Outsider and participating in some of the special events and experiences exclusive to Outsiders.

Weve unlocked this special community and look forward to more adventures and meet-ups with other Ultimate Outsiders, ODaniel said. It really is a great way to have a quest around doing things outdoors.
A Chicago Fire Department firefighter seriously injured while responding to a Norwood Park residential fire earlier this month died late Monday night, the Fire Department said Tuesday morning.

Lt. Kevin Ward, 59, died at Loyola Medical Center surrounded by family, the department said. He served with the department for 27 years.

Ward was one of three firefighters transported to hospitals after an Aug. 11 fire at the home at 8336 Balmoral Ave. on the Northwest Side.

The firefighters condition remained serious, but had stabilized with steady improvement two days after the fire, CFD spokesman Larry Langford said at the time.

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Ward joined the department in 1996, Langford said.

On Tuesday afternoon, a procession of fire and police vehicles carried Wards body from the hospital in Maywood to the Cook County medical examiners office. Four helicopters hovered above as the motorcade moved city-bound on Roosevelt Road, drifting east until the vehicles arrived at the medical examiners office.

There, the procession passed beneath the outstretched ladders of two firetrucks. An American flag hung between the two red vehicles.

The paramedics, firefighters and police gathered to receive Wards body snapped to attention as the vehicle carrying him passed.

Firefighters are still trying to figure out what led to the injuries that ultimately killed Ward, Langford told reporters at the medical examiners office.

We were never able to interview the lieutenant, so a lot of it is just putting together what we can find out from the others who were there with him, Langford said.

Ward was in the basement of the single-story, raised ranch home during the fire, Langford said. There were other firefighters working, but the first responders had to battle extremely heavy smoke.

You couldnt see more than 6 inches in front of you, Langford said. He became trapped in the basement for reasons we dont know.

The firefighter suffered respiratory injuries and was quickly intubated, Langford said. He had been conscious and alert in the weeks after the fire, but continued to be intubated and sedated, Langford said.

Before serving on the Northwest Side, Ward had long worked as a firefighter at OHare International Airport, Langford said.

As Wards body was carried into the medical examiners office, CFD Commissioner Annette Nance-Holt told the crowd of first responders that firefighting is a dangerous job, and the most important thing is making it home.

I wish I wasnt here today, she told reporters later. Weve been to the morgue far too much this year.

Wards passing marks the departments first active duty death since Lt. Jan Tchoryk died in a Gold Coast high-rise fire in early April. The day before, firefighter Jermaine Pelt had died in a West Pullman residential fire.

Fire Department leaders had been holding out hope Ward would survive, Nance-Holt said.

It really rings home the fact that fighting fires is dangerous business, and we dont know when we come to work in the morning if well return home, she said.

Nance-Holt said Ward sought adventure in his work and personal life. He was an avid reader, the firefighters sister told the commissioner. He had also served on the departments Hazmat and air and sea rescue teams, the commissioner added.

Ward was also a dedicated underwater hockey player. He was completely addicted to the atypical sport, he told the Tribune in a 2014 story.

Friends from the Chicago Shorgis, the citys underwater hockey club, mourned the death of their teammate Tuesday.

Weve been rooting and praying for him, Linda Parsons of Irving Park said. Our team is devastated. In shock, and devastated.

Ward was a speedy scorer who swam fast through the water, she said. But he slowed down to help teach new players how the unconventional sport works, Parsons added. He started playing 15 years ago, she said.

The firefighter ran a company selling underwater hockey equipment called Bentfish Design, making him known as a player and leader across the sports tight-knit national community, she said.

His contagious enthusiasm made him a fun person to play with, Parsons said.

Carrie Desmond recalled Ward giving her rides to underwater hockey practices. She was a college student when she started playing and wouldnt have been able to participate like she did without his help, she said. They were never short on things to talk about.

Ward was passionate about his firefighting work and proud of his contribution to society, she said. That energy drifted into his personal life, she said.

He was really a person driven by service, said Desmond, who moved to Minneapolis a few years ago and kept in touch with Ward through the sport.

He enjoyed strategy conversations and postgame analysis. He also sought to grow the sport, donating gear to help rookie players start or to plant the seeds for new teams in other cities, she said.

He was always looking for ways to get better, Desmond said.

Ward had been thinking of retiring to his second home in the mountains of Colorado, said his teammate and friend Vincent Kiernan, of Elmhurst.

Hed been hemming and hawing over it for the past two years or so, Kiernan said.

The firefighters life was filled with hobbies, Kiernan said. Ward had recently bought a Porsche and enjoyed auto body work. He also worked with metal, Kiernan added.

But across every part of his life, some constants remained. He shared time and effort for the people and things he cared about, his friends said. He was generous with his money and energetically found creative ways to make things better.

He did so much for everyone around him, and he never needed you to say thanks, Kiernan said.

Ward didnt need to keep working as a firefighter or keep running into burning houses as a lieutenant, Kiernan said. He also didnt need to show up hours early before practices to make sure the pools surface was ready to go, he added. But he did those things.

He always took massive ownership. He was really selfless, Kiernan said.

At going on 60 years old, Ward was still the biggest, strongest, fastest guy on the team, Kiernan said.

He was like Superman, he said.

Bob Arens, a retired firefighter who served with Ward on Truck 9, drove from Jefferson Park to Little Italy to watch as Wards body arrived Tuesday.

Arens praised Ward as a good guy to work for and a great lieutenant. The two saw each other as they arrived and left for their different shifts, Arens said.

He was always nice to me. We got along, we laughed. Its just a brotherhood. Thats what we do, he said.

A representative of Chicago Fire Fighters Union Local 2 said Tuesday he expected Wards death to eventually be ruled as a line-of-duty death.

Were sad right now, but just like everything, when the bell rings, well get back on that rig, and we go out, and we respect him. We do our job  what we were taught, and what he taught us, Arens said.

Mayor Brandon Johnson called on Chicagoans to keep Wards Truck No. 9 and the citys first responders in their hearts as the firefighter is remembered.

I pray for the peace of his family, friends and loved ones during this most difficult time, Johnson said in a statement Tuesday morning.
Fans take in the action from the left field upper deck during the fourth inning of a game between the White Sox and the Mariners in Chicago on Aug. 22, 2023. (Chris Sweda/Chicago Tribune)

White Sox owner Jerry Reinsdorf and company made a serious mistake by suggesting they might move the White Sox out of Chicago when the teams six-year lease at Guaranteed Rate Field expires, giving an already alienated fan base another reason not to come out to the ballpark.

Attendance for the next six years could potentially drop through the floor. Unless Reinsdorf rolls back the statement about moving out of Chicago and makes a strong public commitment to not only stay in the city but also to remain on the South Side, interest in the team will continue to deteriorate. If he fails to do so, this badly managed franchise might suffer further damage that could take a generation to repair.

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Better yet: Reinsdorf, sell the team.

 Chet Alexander, Alsip

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Advice for the White Sox

So Jerry Reinsdorf is already floating the idea that the White Sox might move to another part of the city or to a suburb or to Nashville, Tennessee, in six years?

As a lifelong and loyal Sox fan, let me just say this: If the team stays in Illinois, do not, under any circumstances, ask Illinois taxpayers to help finance your private enterprise  again! (Like we did in 1991.) Not one dime!

Should the team decide to move to Nashville or elsewhere, let me say this with great sincerity: Dont let the door hit you in the butt on your way out!

 Bob Chimis, Elmwood Park

Bring Theo Epstein aboard

Jerry Reinsdorf has a perfect candidate to lead the White Sox in Theo Epstein. He was successful in Boston and did the impossible of helping the Cubs win a World Series title. I believe Epstein still has a home in Chicago. I think he loves challenges, and the White Sox would be a big challenge.

I hope Reinsdorf places the call.

 Pat Barrett, Arlington Heights

A clear tribute to the Bard

I attended my first White Sox game in 1957 and have not missed a home opener in 35 years. I would like to thank the whole Sox organization for dedicating this season to William Shakespeares The Comedy Of Errors.

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 Will OHeir, Oak Lawn

Considering their record ...

As I write this, the White Sox are getting hammered by supposedly the most futile team in the history of the MLB, the Oakland As. It got me wondering: If the media started calling them the Nashville White Sox, how many on the South Side would either notice or care?

 Laurence Siegel, Manteno

Rein in debate candidates

I watched the entire Republican presidential debate Wednesday night, and while I would prefer most of the candidates to our current president, I was disappointed by the internal bickering and personal attacks. It almost seems like a few of them were trying to emulate Donald Trump.

For future debates, I strongly suggest that the moderators have a kill switch for each candidates microphone. This hopefully would prevent the interruptions and keep the candidates focused on answering the questions.

 Dan Schuchardt, Glen Ellyn

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Pence did his job. Period.

At Wednesday nights Republican presidential debate, Mike Pence continued to receive more accolades for his actions on Jan. 6, 2021, to certify the 2020 election results.

Why so much praise for Pence simply doing his job like so many other vice presidents before him? Lets not forget that the same man was a puppet for, and never stood up to, the disgraced former president for four years. Perhaps if he had, there would not have been a Jan. 6 insurrection attempt at all!

Its naive to think that Pence knew nothing about the fake electors scheme and that he was not part of the Big Lie. But he was very astute.

Pence on Wednesday night said that he took an oath to honor the Constitution, but where was he when it was being dragged through the mud and his boss was saying it should be suspended?

Thats a complicated story for another day. Right now, I just want to say, thank you for doing your job, Mike!

 Michael Weinberg, Deerfield

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My takeaway from debate

Wednesday nights Republican presidential debate did nothing but inspire me to leave the country if a Republican wins.

 Dean Dranias, Plainfield

Effects of remote learning

I read The price American industry may pay for remote work (Aug. 21) and couldnt agree more with Sheldon H. Jacobson. Yes, remote work has not only adversely affected American industry  and all its tangential jobs and resources  but education as well.

The test scores of Chicago Public Schools students following their remote learning during the pandemic is also evidence of a poor substitute.

It saddens me that we have a lost generation of students who have fallen so far behind in test scores  math and reading in particular. While I am not advocating that there should have been another alternative to remote learning, there should have been more emphasis on family. There had to have been someone home with a child during the remote learning period. Find a book, read to your child, ask questions, get involved!

There is no excuse. After all, they are your children!

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 Anne Janet AJ Crane, Riverwoods

Idea of boosting teachers pay

I have enjoyed the Voice of the People responses to the teacher shortage (Aug. 24). Mostly spot on, although one letter could add to the mountain of state and federal mandates that take up a large portion of an educators time. But thats a subject for another letter.

Regarding the letter from Barbara Dillon (How to create happy teachers): Im sure we can all agree that teachers are grossly underpaid and that adopting a starting salary of $100,000 sounds about right. However, as Im sure Dillon knows, all teacher salaries come from taxes. In Illinois, where the average starting salary for a teacher is about $44,000, asking for more than a 100% increase in pay has about as much chance of happening as a snowball surviving an Illinois summer.

Now if I had the answer to this dilemma, I would be a very happy guy. I wish the answer was out there and welcome any good ideas.

 Don Weber, Minooka, Illinois

Air and Water Show a reminder

Chicago Tribune Opinion Weekdays Read the latest editorials and commentary curated by the Tribune Opinion team. By submitting your email to receive this newsletter, you agree to our Subscriber Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy >

Only in Chicago could people criticize the most popular event of the year: the Air and Water Show. There is a reason it is so popular, and it is not because people are dumb. It is because the show is fun, eye-opening and inspiring.

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Though some criticize it as a commercial for our military, the event is a good reminder that it sometimes takes those powerful jets to protect our freedoms, including the freedom of speech and the press. A beautiful Constitution with beautiful rights is meaningless if not backed up when needed with muscle.

So keep the jets and the roar coming.

 Shawn Jenkins, Army (1988-1992), Chicago

Join the conversation in our Letters to the Editor Facebook group.

Submit a letter, of no more than 400 words, to the editor here or email letters@chicagotribune.com.
Two journalists became part of the story on Monday when they were robbed at gunpoint while reporting on a string of armed robberies in Chicago.

The robbery took place just before 5 a.m. in the 1200 block of North Milwaukee Avenue in the West Town area, Chicago police told media.

The Spanish-language TV station, Univision Chicago, said its reporter and photographer were robbed by three men wearing ski masks and bearing guns, the Chicago Sun Times reported.

The suspects reportedly exited two separate vehicles, demanded money from the two men and stole a camera, two bags containing equipment and a personal backpack. They then fled in the vehicles.

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Police said no injuries were reported and no arrests have been made.

The journalists were filming a story about robberies in the West Town community for the morning news.

The footage never aired, as the camera that recorded it was stolen, Luis Godinez, vice president of news at Univision Chicago, told the Chicago Tribune.

Godinez told the Tribune the station covered the robberies on the evening newscast, but didnt make the incident involving its own news crew the focus.

We dont want to make the story about us, because there were other robberies that occurred within that same period, he said.

At least seven robberies and two carjackings took place in the city between Sunday night and Monday morning, according to CBS 2 Chicago.

Mondays incident was the second robbery of a news crew in Chicago this month.

Raza Siddiqui, president of the National Association of Broadcast Employees and Technicians Local 41, which represents media workers, told the Sun Times the union is concerned about the safety of its members on the job and is looking into solutions.

According to Siddiqui, some of the news stations affiliated with the union planned to implement new safety measures as of Monday night, including providing security to certain crews.
(Bloomberg) -- China will extend preferential income tax policies for foreigners working in the country through the end of 2027, in a move that sends an encouraging signal to foreign businesses in China.

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The Asian nation will continue to waive taxes on foreign workers benefits, including subsidies for housing, language training and childrens education, according to a statement from its finance ministry on Monday.

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Earlier this month, the European Union Chamber of Commerce in China called on the Chinese authorities for an urgent clarification as to whether non-taxable allowances for foreign employees would apply beyond the end of this year, saying an extension of the policy would demonstrate a firm commitment to the foreign business community, as well as Chinese firms that hire foreign nationals.

On Monday, the chamber welcomed the four-year extension of the individual income tax regime, or IIT, for foreign nationals, describing it as very positive news.

Having continually advocated this issue at all levels of government, the European Chamber believes it can help to stem the outflow of foreign talent that has taken place over the last few years, the group said in a statement. Announced on the margins of the start of the new school year, it will be extremely welcome news for families that have made the decision either to come to or remain in China.

--With assistance from Phila Siu.

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(Bloomberg) -- China launched a graft probe into former provincial leader with a track record of reforming a health-care sector thats now the subject of a sweeping cleanup campaign.

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The ruling Communist partys graft watchdog said in a statement Monday evening that it is investigating Sun Zhigang, former Communist Party chief of Guizhou province in the southwest.

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The Central Commission for Discipline Inspection said Sun was suspected of violating the law and party discipline, but didnt get into specifics of the case.

Sun, 69, caught the attention of top officials in Beijing around 2009-2010, when serving in Anhui. A team of inspectors sent by the State Council, Chinas cabinet, said the eastern province was opening a new path for nationwide health-care reforms and called for other parts of the nation to learn from it.

See: Chinas Sweeping Health Graft Campaign Goes Beyond Hospitals

Sun later led the cabinets health-care reform office, and in 2013, he rose to vice chief at the National Health and Family Planning Commission, the predecessor of the National Health Commission.

China launched a sweeping campaign to clean up corruption in the health care sector in July this year, though theres no indication that is why Sun is in trouble. That probe has already snared more than 100 hospital chiefs and officials, dented the stock prices of companies in the industry and forced at least two pharmaceutical companies to shelve listing plans.

An unidentified official from the National Health Commission has told the official Xinhua News Agency that in addition to punishing officials for abuse of power and corruption, the campaign targets illegal sales activities by drug and medical device makers, doctors taking bribes and misuse of the state medical insurance fund that covers over 95% of Chinese people.

Sun led Guizhou from 2017 to 2020, getting credit from state media for helping lift the province out of poverty.

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A top Chinese official told Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo on Tuesday he was prepared to make new positive efforts to improve relations with the United States.

Raimondos visit to China comes amid the Biden administrations efforts to improve communications between the superpowers, but neither side has expressed that it is ready to compromise on issues of technology, security and other disputes.

Vice Premier He Lifeng referred to in-depth exchanges in July with Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen during this weeks meeting with Raimondo.

Im ready to work based on that with you, to make new positive efforts to deepen our consensus and extend our cooperation, he said in the meeting at the Great Hall of the People in central Beijing.

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Tensions have been rising between China and the U.S. on various fronts, from technology and espionage to economic competition and military might.

There have recently been close military confrontations in the South China Sea and Taiwan Strait, along with a surveillance balloon incident last February and recent reporting that China has been spying on the U.S. from Cuba for years.

Raimondo criticized Chinas treatment of U.S. technology companies during her visit but also called for cooperation in areas like climate change and artificial intelligence.

She said the two countries would establish an information exchange about U.S. controls on technology exports but did not suggest those curbs would be rolled back.

Im looking forward to finding ways that we can more effectively engage on commercial issues that impact our relationship, Raimondo told He.

Raimondo later met with Chinese Premier Li Qiang, who said he hopes for Washington to take concrete actions in reference to Chinas desire for policy changes on Taiwan and access to technology.

We do hope the U.S. side will work in the same direction as China, show sincerity and take concrete actions to maintain and further develop bilateral relations, Li told Raimondo.

The Associated Press contributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
A county in China is offering couples a cash reward of $137 if the bride is under 25.

It said the move is to promote "age-appropriate marriage and childbearing."

The county is also handing out childcare subsidies and benefits, to encourage people to have babies.

China's so desperate to have more babies that it'll do anything to boost marriages and fertility.

Recently, a county in eastern China started offering couples 1,000 Chinese yuan, or $137, in cash if the bride is 25 years old or younger, according to a post on its official WeChat account last Thursday. The minimum legal age for marriage is 22 for men and 20 for women.

Changshan county in Zhejiang province said the reward is to promote "age-appropriate marriage and childbearing" for those who are marrying for the first time, per Insider's translation of the notice.

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And one of the parties must have their household registration, or hukou, in the Changshan county, to qualify for the reward.

Changshan county is also granting benefits to couples who have children.

They include subsidies of 5,000 yuan and 10,000 yuan each year for second and third children born in the county up until the age of three and free annual gynecological examinations for women with three kids. They are even offering free public transport in the county for families with two or more kids under the age of 16.

The push for marriage and babies comes after China saw a record low of 6.83 million marriages registered in 2022. The country's population has even started shrinking for the first time in six decades.

An aging population will have profound implications for the future of China's economy, labor force, and healthcare system.

Changshan is not the only region in China racking its brains to encourage marriages and births.

The government of Hangzhou, a tech hub in east China and home to e-commerce giant Alibaba, is granting new parents about $2,900 as a one-off subsidy for having a third child this year.

China's not the only country trying to boost flagging birthrates with cash incentives. Singapore, South Korea, and Japan have similar programs.

Changshan's local government office did not immediately respond to a request for comment from Insider.

Read the original article on Business Insider
[Source]

Officials in an eastern Chinese county have unveiled a unique incentive for prospective brides to counteract the regions plummeting birth rate.

A novel strategy: Changshan County is offering young brides a cash incentive of 1,000 yuan (approximately $137) if they marry at the age of 25 or younger.

The announcement, made through the county's official WeChat account last week, seeks to encourage "age-appropriate marriage and childbearing" for first-time unions.

Other incentives: The move marks the latest effort in the country to encourage young couples to enter into matrimony and have children. The initiative also includes an array of childcare, fertility and education subsidies tailored for couples who already have children.

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More from NextShark: London Chinatown Bakery Vandalized With Black Paint, $2,800 Reward Offered for Arrest

Critics of the initiative, however, remain skeptical about the effectiveness of the policy, attributing their doubts to the relatively modest monetary incentive.

Past initiatives: Numerous local authorities across China have rolled out a variety of incentives aimed at stimulating the birth rate in recent years. However, most of these initiatives have concentrated on encouraging couples to expand their families with second and third children.

Due to the steady decline in the frequency of unions, experts have urged officials to broaden their focus by implementing policies that explicitly target couples contemplating their first child. Experts have noted that economic factors, including the high cost of child-rearing, gender discrimination and stringent government regulations regarding childbirth for single women, have deterred many women from marriage and parenthood.

More from NextShark: Couple sues Hawaii snorkeling company for $5 million for abandoning them in the ocean

A demographic crisis: China's demographic landscape has been marked by mounting concerns following the end of a strict three-decades-long one-child policy in 2015.

Even though the policy has been relaxed to permit families to have up to three children, recent reports indicate that the fertility rate hit an unprecedented low of 1.09 in 2022, exacerbating the nation's demographic crisis.

In January, it was revealed that Chinas population dropped from 1.413 billion in 2021 to 1.412 billion in 2022, the first decline since 1961. Government data released in June revealed that marriage rates have also nosedived to a historic low of 6.8 million in 2022, 800,000 fewer marriages compared to 2021. The figure is the lowest tally since 1986.

More from NextShark: Xi Jinping: 'True democracy' in Hong Kong began after British handover to China

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China is behind the largest known covert propaganda operation ever identified on Facebook and Instagram, according to a new report by security researchers at Meta.

Meta on Tuesday outed the authors of a four-year long influence campaign dubbed Spamouflage Dragon, which first appeared in 2019 to spread propaganda about Hong Kongs pro-democracy protests. Since then, the campaign has focused on spreading disinformation about the origins of the COVID-19 pandemic, attacking dissidents and critics abroad, criticizing the United States, and attempting to sow division during the 2022 midterm elections.

For years, researchers have speculated that the voluminous Spamouflage Dragon posts were connected to the Chinese government but have been unable to publicly prove a link until now. The link comes courtesy of overlapping content found in both Metas report and charges filed against Chinese intelligence operatives back in spring.

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Federal prosecutors accused dozens of Chinese Ministry of Public Security officials of being behind a covert social media propaganda campaign in a criminal complaint filed in April. Some of the same propaganda content cited by U.S. prosecutors in that complaint also appears in Metas report published on Tuesday, indicating that the Ministry of Public Security is the law enforcement agency Meta believes is behind Spamouflage Dragon.

We can confirm that the social media activity described in the complaint is part of the Spamouflage operation we described in our report, a Meta spokesperson tells Rolling Stone.

In April, the Justice Department indicted 34 Chinese intelligence officers with the MPS on charges of conspiracy to transmit interstate threats and conspiracy to commit interstate harassment in connection with an attempt to intimidate Chinese exiles in the US.

The operatives were part of the MPSs 912 Special Project Working Group, according to the indictment. Chinese officials have charged the group with creat[ing] and us[ing] a host of accounts under false names on U.S. social media platforms to disseminate and amplify messages as part of a broad effort to influence and shape public perceptions of the PRC government, the CCP and its leaders in the United States and around the world.

Spamouflage Dragon operators havent meddled as aggressively in U.S. elections as other actors, like Russias Internet Research Agency. But the troll network has begun to push narratives tied to the 2022 midterms.

Shortly before that election, cybersecurity researchers at Google and Mandiant found Spamouflage Dragon accounts that criticized American elections and democracy in general and urged readers not to vote. In one video posted by the trolls, narrators urged viewers not to vote for someone and showed footage of January 6 rioters while claiming that The solution is to root out this ineffective and incapacitated system.

As part of that campaign, Meta researchers recently discovered a portion of Spamouflage Dragon activity that was run by geographically dispersed operators across China who

appear to have been centrally provisioned with internet access and content directions, according to the report released Tuesday.

Once you put everything together from 2019 until now, it is the largest known covert influence operation, Metas global threat intelligence lead Ben Nimmo says in an interview.

Spamouflage Dragons overwhelming scale, however, has failed to translate into any tangible influence or audience, likely because the network is focused on putting volume over audience building, according to Nimmo.

The trolls have demonstrated a weak command of idiomatic English with articles that, while prolific, often misspell key names or use English and Mandarin interchangeably. Other posts  like a critique of former House Speaker Nancy Pelosis August 2022 trip to Taiwan  appear long after the events they purported to preview.

At other times, the spammers attempted to push niche and esoteric Chinese propaganda talking points onto unreceptive audiences by piggybacking on clickable search engine optimized headlines. In one case cited by Meta researchers, Spamouflage Dragon trolls filled the replies of social media forum questions like How do I lose belly fat through weight lifting? with propaganda articles about Chinese Police Strengthening International Law Enforcement Cooperation.

The campaigns lack of any audience development despite years of operation, dozens of personnel behind it, and thousands of pieces of content leads some to wonder why China even bothers with the trolling effort.

It always comes back down to this question, Nimmo says, of whos kidding whom here? To what extent are [Spamouflage Dragon] targeting foreign audiences and to what extent are they targeting the people who might be paying them  to make them think that theyre reaching foreign audiences?

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The California Highway Patrol arrested a West Sacramento man accused of firing a gun in a road rage shooting that wounded another man earlier this month along Highway 160, near the Isleton Bridge.

Timothy Lee Allen, 21, was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder, the CHP Valley Division announced Monday in a news release. Records show he was booked Thursday morning at the Sacramento County Main Jail downtown, where he was being held without bail.

The shooting was reported about 11 p.m. on Aug. 10. The CHP said the shooting victim was struck by gunfire on Highway 160, also known as River Road in that area, near the Isleton Bridge. The shooting was the result of an alleged road rage incident, authorities said.

The victim, a 25-year-old man from Antioch, was treated at the scene and taken to a hospital in Walnut Creek. The CHP said the Antioch man suffered a non-life-threatening gunshot wound and was later released from the hospital.

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Allen appeared for his arraignment hearing Monday afternoon in Sacramento Superior Court. During the brief hearing, Court Commissioner Alin Cintean told Allen that he faces the attempted murder charge, along with an enhancement for allegedly using a gun in the crime. Cintean ordered Allen to return to court Sept. 6 for further proceedings in his case.

The CHP Valley Divisions investigative service unit took the lead in the shooting investigation. The CHP said investigators later identified Allen as the shooting suspect and obtained search warrants for his home and vehicle.

The CHP SWAT and Valley Division Warrant Service Team served the search warrants. The CHP said investigators found a firearm with several hundred rounds of ammunition, along with spent ammunition cartridge cases, in Allens vehicle.

Investigators suspect Allen may have been involved in separate road rage shooting incidents driving a dark-colored Honda Civic. The CHP shared photos of the Honda Civic in a Facebook post, seeking tips from the public.

Investigators asked anyone with additional information related to this investigation to call the CHP Valley Division ISU tip line at 916-731-6580 or send an email to chpvalleytip@chp.ca.gov.
Former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie said the March 4 date set for Donald Trumps federal election subversion trial is realistic but disastrous for the Republican Party.

Christie, one of the only outspoken Trump critics competing in the Republican presidential field, said the date is feasible given that its a one-defendant case.

I remember talking to you at the time of this indictment, and theres some question about why did Jack Smith just indict Donald Trump and have six unindicted co conspirators? I think today is the reason why he did that, Christie, a former federal prosecutor, told CNNs Jake Tapper on Monday.

In Christies view, Smith, the special counsel leading the case, restricted the case to one defendant in order to get it moved to trial.

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He indicted the person he felt was most culpable, Christie said. And today I think what the judge did was twofold: One, she gave them another six months to get ready for trial in a single-defendant case, and two, she made it quite clear to the Trump legal team that the public relations games that they and their client play are not going to impact the decisions that she makes in the courtroom.

Looking ahead to March, Christie said Republican voters should be wary that Trump will likely be spending four to six weeks in a federal courtroom and not campaigning against Joe Biden.

This is disastrous for the Republican Party, he said. And this is why Ive been saying right from the time I get into the race, that given his personal conduct, given the stuff that he did himself, that he simply cant be our nominee.

The trials start date falls one day before the Super Tuesday primaries. Trump is the current front-runner in the Republican presidential race.

U.S. District Judge Tanya Chutkan announced the date on Monday, after rejecting proposals from both the prosecution and the defense.

Smith had requested that the trial start in January, with jury selection beginning in December. Trumps team countered with April 2026, nearly a year and a half after the next presidential election.

Trump faces four felony charges in the case: conspiracy to defraud the United States, conspiracy to obstruct an official proceeding, obstruction of and attempt to obstruct an official proceeding, and conspiracy against rights.

He has also been charged with 87 additional crimes spread across three other cases, including a federal case concerning his handling of classified documents and two state-level cases.

In New York, hes charged with falsifying business records linked to a hush money scheme involving porn actor Stormy Daniels, and in Georgia, hes accused of spearheading a racketeering conspiracy to subvert the will of voters in the 2020 election.

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For a third time, the Arlington Heights School District 25 board asked for additional information before making a final decision on whether to add new school resource officers in the district.

Are we ready to make a decision next time? Im not seeing that yet, SD25 board President Anisha Jogee said after extensive board discussion at the Aug. 15 board meeting.

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Jogee requested that Superintendent Lori Bein provide an anticipated short-term staffing plan to assist the board as it considers a decision. Board members expressed concern about the anticipated expense of additional SROs and what the impact would be on students and future staffing.

Weve heard every voice come to us about this. We heard concerns about bringing guns into the building and if we should hire social workers instead, Jogee.

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The board has been presented with a proposal for consideration that includes adding one full-time school officer each at South and Thomas, the two middle schools in the nine-school district. The cost for the SROs is estimated at $222,000.

Jogee said there seems to be a 50-50 community split over the SRO proposal. She said the proposal will be an informational item at the September or October board meeting and not up for a board vote at that time.

During her superintendents report at the board meeting, Bein provided an update on the proposal. She shared feedback from middle school principals, drafts of SRO job descriptions and evaluation plans, along with resources related to a memorandum of understanding between the school district and police department. The police department would cover benefits.

Currently, two school resource officers serve the districts nine schools, Bein said, in addition to providing SRO services to 10 other Arlington Heights schools and four other nearby schools. Most of the officers time in SD25 is spent at Thomas and South schools where a combined total of approximately 1,900 students are enrolled in grades 6 to 8.

In addition to their roles as SROs, Bein said officers also provide student safety lessons, train staff and often participate in district extracurricular activities. The salaries and benefits of these two officers are paid by the village of Arlington Heights.

The idea to expand the school resource officers first came at the request of the Arlington Heights Police Department, Bein said, which wants to broaden its service in the community and not because of any safety concerns in the elementary school district.

I can understand, potentially, the role of an SRO, said board Member Rich Olejniczak. Wouldnt those funds be better spent on a social worker who could interact in a professional manner than a police officer could?

Board Vice President Greg Scapillato said he needs more context on spending nearly a quarter of a million dollars on two SROs.

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If we have money to spend, why is this the place to spend it? Scapillato asked.

He said he wasnt debating the possible benefits of a SRO program, but was interested in the context of spending discretional funds on it rather than on other initiatives  such as students physical and mental health, relationship building, discipline, emergency readiness and social emotional learning.

Scapillato also requested baseline data for further evaluation, including current discipline data, office referrals, detentions, suspensions, SRO interventions and interactions.

Bein said it would be difficult to provide apples to apples data since current SROs are not full-time in the district and do not discipline students, administrators do. She said the district would have to have a dedicated SRO to collect baseline data to determine their impact at which point student and parent surveys could also be conducted on the impact of SROs.

She explained that in recent years, the board approved adding social workers to the middle school but those positions are different from a SRO. The police officers have a community connection and interact with students outside of the classroom when students have concerns in the community.

Bein also said she would need to research what the long-term financial impact would be on staffing. The superintendent explained that the district has committed $1.4 million to additional staffing for full-day kindergarten  which starts next school year. She said the district will be faced with determining if reading specialists and others hired using Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief funds, provided by the federal government during the COVID-19 pandemic, will continue with the district after that money runs out.

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The district was allocated a total $2.39 million in ESSER funds, according to Illinois State Board of Education data.

Bein said based on her research, area school districts do pay for their own SROs, unlike SD25 currently.

Board Member Brian Cerniglia questioned whether the SROs are the best use of the districts resources.

Do we collectively think this is an investment that will pay dividends for our kids? Cerniglia questioned.

He said without wider context on overall staffing, the board will need to make difficult choices on who gets to stay in the district and who doesnt. This perspective, he said, is necessary before making a decision on investing in the SROs.

He also said, its not our position to ask officers not to carry weapons, they are required.

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Board members were also presented at the meeting with a tentative 2023-2024 budget.

There was also a special meeting about plans for the new superintendent search.

I want to invite the whole [community] to follow along with the superintendent search. You are all part of this process, Jogee said.

The board president explained that the search process will include surveys, focus groups, meetings and community input. A new website is planned to be created for search updates, and a letter from the school board will be distributed to parents soon.

We want your voice, we want your input, Jogee said. As our superintendent retires, we have big shoes to fill. Were very much engaged and working hard to find the next best superintendent for our community so follow along on that journey.

Elizabeth Owens-Schiele is a freelancer.
GOP presidential candidate Chris Christie predicted that former President Trumps trial date related to the federal Jan. 6 case will be disastrous for the Republican Party.

I think for Republican voters, the biggest thing they have to look at now is that were gonna have a guy running for president who, from March 4 probably for the next four-to-six weeks, will be every day in a courtroom in Washington, D.C., and not campaigning against Joe Biden, Christie, the former governor of New Jersey, told CNNs Jake Tapper on The Lead.

This is disastrous for the Republican Party, he continued. And this is why Ive been saying  right from the time I got into the race  that given his personal conduct, given the stuff that he did himself, that he simply cant be our nominee.

The Hill Elections 2024 coverage

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Still, Christie said the trial set for March 4 is a realistic date, noting that Justice Department (DOJ) special counsel Jack Smith likely charged the former president alone in this case so that it would be moved to trial faster. He added that the court battles could put the GOP at a disadvantage, as Trump remains the current GOP front-runner.

U.S. District Judge Tanya Chutkan decided Monday to begin jury selection March 4 for Trumps trial in the DOJ case targeting his efforts to remain in office after losing the 2020 election. This comes after Smiths team asked for a Jan. 2, 2024, trial date, while Trumps team pushed for a trial date in April 2026.

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This means the trial will now kick off the day before Super Tuesday, when voters will head to the polls in more than a dozen states in the Republican presidential primary. Trump and his campaign lashed out at Chutkan shortly after she announced the date, with a spokesperson arguing that it would hurt his campaign efforts.

Today a biased, Trump Hating Judge gave me only a two month extension, just what our corrupt government wanted, SUPER TUESDAY. I will APPEAL! Trump wrote on Truth Social.

While Trumps team can file motions to attempt to delay the trial, the date itself cannot be directly appealed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
GOP presidential candidate and former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie warned Tuesday that Republicans would be giving an enormous gift to Democrats if they nominate former President Trump next year.

The debate Wednesday was the starting gun in this race, and people are going to start to focus on it this fall and when they do, Republicans are going to realize that nominating Donald Trump is going to be an enormous gift to the Democrats, Christie said on MSNBCs Morning Joe.

And the Democrats are doing what theyre doing because they want Donald Trump to be the nominee because they know they can beat Donald Trump, he added. And the reason they know they can, is they already have.

Christie was commenting on a recent poll in Georgia that showed Trump with a 42-point lead despite his recent indictment in the state. He suggested the polls can change once autumn rolls around and more people begin paying attention to politics.

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He said any polls up until this point have been hypothetical and suggested Trumps legal challenges could change peoples minds because he will be spending much of his time in a courtroom instead of on the campaign trail.

I think what youre seeing right now, all of this stuff beforehand, Willie, in terms of the impact that his conduct and the subsequent charges are going to have on the election, have been hypothetical, Christie told MSNBCs Willie Geist. Now people are going to see what they really mean.

Theyre going to mean that a candidate cant be out there campaigning. Hes going to be tending to his own criminal trial in federal district court in the District of Columbia, his own criminal trial in Manhattan Supreme Court in New York. And those two cases I think, are almost certain to both be tried, he added.

U.S. District Judge Tanya Chutkan decided Monday to begin jury selection March 4 for Trumps trial in the federal case targeting his efforts to remain in office after losing the 2020 election.

This means the trial will begin on the eve of Super Tuesday, when voters will head to the polls in more than a dozen states in the Republican presidential primary.

Christie told CNNs Jake Tapper on The Lead that this trial date will be disastrous for the Republican Party because Trump will be fighting legal battles instead of campaigning against President Biden.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
The CIA wants to share what it knows about world space programs. Some of what it knows, anyway.

The United States Central Intelligence Agency, better known as the CIA, has released a new entry in its World Factbook that catalogues the programs and milestones of NASA, as well as other space agencies around the world. Over 90 countries and the European Union are represented in the new Space Programs section of the agency's factbook, spanning from Algeria to Zimbabwe.

A CIA spokesperson told Space.com that, due to the increased visibility of space programs around the world, there is a need for the agency to provide "sound, reliable background information" for use by students of all ages, journalists, academics or anyone else looking for a "deep dive into a country and its space program."

Related: CIA about UFOs of the 1950s and '60s: 'It was us'

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The Space Programs factbook includes how much each nation spends on its space program, based on available spending estimates and budget information. The resource also includes brief listings on individual countries' key activities, both historical and current.

All of the information in the new factbook section is unclassified and publicly available, and has been gathered together from open sources. Still, it might be surprising to some readers to learn which nations do, in fact, have a space program, the CIA spokesperson added. Nicaragua, for example, a country not commonly associated with spaceflight, pledged to spend over $250 million on a communications satellite with Chinese funding in 2013, according to the factbook.

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The new Space Programs section is the first new appendix added to the CIA World Factbook since 2021. Its addition coincides with the 80th anniversary of the factbook's predecessor publication.

The agency's spokesperson said the CIA's Space Programs appendix is a "living document" that is expected to be updated weekly, but the agency hopes to be able to include more frequent updates in the future.
 Read the full article on Motorious

Come get your truck!

Get ready to rev up your love for square body trucks, because Classic Car Auction's Billings Sale is the place to be for enthusiasts and collectors alike! Dubbed the mecca for square body aficionados, this year's auction is setting the stage for a parade of iconic and meticulously maintained trucks that defined an era. If you've ever felt the allure of these angular beauties, you won't want to miss what promises to be a blockbuster event in the world of classic automobiles. From restored classics to customized marvels, the Billings Sale is poised to offer something for every square body enthusiast. Buckle up, because it's going to be a ride to remember!

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1977 Ford F150 XLT

f you've been hunting for the quintessential American truck that embodies ruggedness and heritage, look no further than Lot 47 at the 11th Annual Montana Classic Car Auction. A 1977 Ford F150 XLT shortbed 4x4, this blue beauty is more than just a truckit's a piece of Americana. Boasting a V-8 engine and automatic transmission, this is not just any F150; it's a one-family-owned gem that has called Montana home since it first hit the road. The odometer hints at a well-loved life with around 80,000 miles, and though it's not confirmed, the condition suggests these could be the original miles. Fresh off body work and a repaint in 2021/22, with new interior upholstery to match, this truck looks as youthful as it feels. It even comes with new wheels and tires with under 300 miles on them. But purists, don't worry: its original chrome bumpers and trim are still in place, showing off their age with grace. This F150 is the epitome of timeless style meeting rugged functionality. See it here.

1976 Chevrolet K10 Scottsdale 4x4 Pickup Truck

Step aside, modern trucksthis silver stunner from 1976 is flexing its vintage muscle at the 11th Annual Montana Classic Car Auction. Nestled in Lot 46, the Chevrolet K10 Scottsdale 4x4 Pickup Truck is no ordinary old-timer. Beneath its silver exterior, you'll find a freshly rebuilt SBC V8 engine paired with a Turbo 350 transmission that's also been refurbished to perfection. Rev it up, and you'll hear the throaty roar of its new dual exhaust system, thanks to the meticulously rebuilt Rochester 4-barrel carburetor.

But it's not just under the hood that this truck shines. The body has undergone a serious makeover, with all the rust skillfully cut out and replaced with new panels before being coated in gleaming new paint. Inside, it's been treated to a full reupholstering job that gives the cab a showroom-new feel. Add to that a practical bed liner and a brand-new set of tires, and you've got yourself not just a vehicle, but a love letter to classic American truck design. Call it what you want, but around here, we simply call it "awesome." See it here.

1971 GMC 1500 Pickup Truck



In Lot 13 at the 11th Annual Montana Classic Car Auction, you'll find a sunny blast from the pastthe 1971 GMC 1500 Pickup Truck. Painted in an eye-catching yellow thats just as vibrant as it was five decades ago, this truck is more than just good looks. Under the hood, a roaring 350 V8 engine pairs seamlessly with an automatic transmission, offering both power and convenience. The custom wheels wrapped in Cooper Cobra Radial GT tires don't just add to the truck's visual appeal; they promise a ride as smooth as the truck is stylish.

While it's enjoyed its life primarily as a driver since its older restoration, the body remains in tip-top shape, as reported by the seller. The interior doesnt disappoint either; new carpet and upholstery were fitted during the truck's restoration, and an upgraded radio with Bluetooth capabilities ensures you're not missing out on modern comforts. Every gauge is in working condition, save for the gas gaugebecause, let's be honest, when you're behind the wheel of this classic, it's not about the destination, it's about the drive. See it here.

The 11th Annual Montana Classic Car Auction takes place on September 2nd. This is an awesome bookend event to the summer Classic Car driving season in the Northern Rockies! Hosted by the Classic Car Auction Group, the 11th Annual Montana Classic Car Auction is held at the Metra Park Expo Center in Billings, Montana. This location provides a great indoor setting for the Auction with 100 cars expected.

Register to bid online or in person.

Along with the auction, attendees can take in the Burn the Point Weekend, a fundraiser for the Chase Hawks Memorial Association Crisis Fund. The event includes a classic car parade and street dance in downtown Billings Friday night and a classic car show Saturday, also at the Metra Park grounds.

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The Clermont County Sheriff's Office received a complaint on July 14 about Municipal Court Judge Jesse Kramig engaging in sexual activities during work time in the Clermont County Municipal Courthouse.

The Clermont County Sheriff's Office has opened an investigation into an alleged affair between Municipal Court Judge Jesse Kramig and a 25-year-old administrative assistant.

The sheriff's office received a complaint July 14 about Kramig, 42, engaging in sexual activities "on duty, in the closet" from the assistant's husband's aunt.

The Enquirer reached out to both Kramig and the assistant, Allison Kersker, with phone calls and emails but did not receive a response. Kersker's husband and his aunt also did not respond.

Kramig's lawyer, Scott Croswell, said the allegations are unfounded.

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"We only cared that it's happening during work hours. She's a very pretty girl, but this just seems so wrong to me," Kersker's in-law told Captain Chris Allen, according to video footage of the interview at the sheriff's office, which The Enquirer obtained through a public records request.

Kramig, a Republican, was appointed to the municipal court in 2016. He previously worked in the Ohio Attorney General's Office and as an assistant prosecutor in Hamilton County and Clermont County. He is married and has two children.

He is running for reelection this November to the $148,775-a-year position. One of three municipal court judges, he will be unopposed, according to the candidates filed with the Clermont County Board of Elections.

"If there's something going on, people should know. We're gonna vote for this man. No one's running against him so it doesn't matter but you vote for him. And he's sleeping with his staff member? It's just crazy to me," Kersker's in-law said to Allen.

Relatives of the court employee's husband expressed concern

Kersker's in-law told Allen that Kramig engaged in sexual activity in the closet, in his chambers and in a car in the parking lot. She said the two messaged each other via LinkedIn and Kersker was worried the bailiff was suspicious.

She said Kersker received more than $12,000 in raises since she was hired in 2021. An Enquirer review of court employee personnel files confirmed this but also shows another administrative assistant in the court received the same raises on the same dates.

Kersker's mother-in-law left a voicemail for the court administrator asking another municipal court judge, Jason Nagel, to respond to Kersker's husband before she contacted news organizations.

"We're not getting answers from you. I gave you plenty of time to contact me and I have not heard back from you. So we are going to do whatever we need to do to get answers," she said.

Nagel said in an email that he was told Kersker's mother-in-law came into the courthouse during his morning docket. He said she asked what was going to happen to Kramig and Kersker's jobs and he did not contact her.

"I have no reason to talk to family members about employment decisions, and judges are elected officials and not subject to discipline or termination by another judge," Nagel said. "Allison remains an excellent employee of the court, and we are happy to have her."

Is the alleged behavior illegal?

It's unclear if the alleged behavior would constitute sexual harassment under Ohio law. Clermont County Chief Deputy Chris Stratton said the investigation has been referred to the Warren County Sheriff's Office. In response to a request for any reports related to the investigation, the Warren County Sheriff's Office sent a form saying the matter is pending investigation.

The employee code of conduct for Clermont County Municipal Court prohibits any romantic relationships between an employee and a person the employee directly or indirectly supervises. The code defines a romantic relationship as "marriage or a relationship between two persons that is amorous and extends beyond mere social interaction.

What was the court's response?

Kersker's husband thought things were off with his wife so when he left for work June 27, he left an old cell phone on and recording audio in their house, according to his aunt's account to the sheriff's office. He told his aunt that 10 minutes later, Kersker called her friend and began talking about the affair. Her husband confronted her about it that night.

Kersker's in-law said the next day, June 28, Kersker didn't go in to work and Court Administrator Stephanie Bohrer came to her house to check on her. Her husband played the recording for Bohrer and she went back to the courthouse and told the officials there about the situation, Kersker's in-law said.

The Enquirer reached out to Bohrer to confirm these events and ask if the court started an internal investigation. Bohrer said she can't answer any questions regarding the situation.

Kersker's time sheet, obtained through a public records request, does show that she took June 28 off as a personal day.

According to Kersker's in-law's account, Nagel told Kersker to come in the office and meet with him on June 29. She said Nagel also met with Kramig separately and he told Kersker she needed to find another job but she could continue working at the court until she found one.

Nagel said this is untrue and that the first time he spoke with Kersker after learning about the alleged affair was July 5. He said he met with Kersker, Bohrer and Judge Anita Bechmmann.

"I told her she would not be fired or redirected, that she is a valued employee and to let any of the three of us know if anyone pressured her to leave her job," he said. "We had that conversation because Allison had told Judge Bechmann the week before that she was afraid she would have to find another job, and we wanted to reassure her that was not true."

Clermont County Municipal Judge Jesse Kramig in Hamilton County Common Pleas Court, during his time as Ohio Assistant Attorney General.

State bureau declined to take over the investigation

Clermont County Prosecutor Mark Tekulve requested a special prosecutor to investigate allegations in a court filing on July 12, just after Enquirer media partner Fox19 submitted a records request related to Kramig and Kersker, according to Fox19's reporting.

The court filing said that Warren County Prosecutor David Fornshell was appointed to investigate "allegations involving J/A." The first names of the alleged parties mentioned in the sheriff's office report are Jesse and Allison.

Fornshell said he does not comment on special prosecutor appointments "unless something ever comes of it."

Allen, with the Clermont County Sheriff's Office, asked the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation to look into the allegations on July 18.

A BCI investigation would demonstrate transparency and "foster public confidence in the fairness of our institutions," Allen said in a letter to the bureau. The bureau declined the request. Special Agent Supervisor Jeffrey Cook said the bureau evaluates requests for assistance on a case-by-case basis based on the offense, availability of evidence, solvability factors and prosecution concerns and limitations.

Erin Glynn is the watchdog reporter for Butler, Warren and Clermont counties through the Report For America program. The Enquirer needs local donors to help fund her grant-funded position. If you want to support Glynn's work, you can donate to her Report For America position at this website or email her editor Carl Weiser at cweiser@enquirer.com to find out how you can help fund her work.

Do you know something she should know? Send her a note at eglynn@enquirer.com and follow her on Twitter at @ee_glynn.

This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Clermont County judge investigated for alleged affair with employee
The grants come from the Cleveland Black Futures Fund, founded in the wake of the George Floyd protests to promote and increase the capacity of Black-led and Black-serving nonprofits.

The Cleveland Foundation is providing grants totaling over $1.3 million to 36 Black organizations as part of the most recent round from a fund that has given out over $6.8 million since its inception in late 2020.

According to the foundation, its grants are a component of the Cleveland Black Futures Fund, founded in the wake of the George Floyd protests to promote and increase the capacity of Black-led and Black-serving nonprofits.

The endowments come at a time when Edward Blum, a conservative activist who was a driving force behind the Supreme Courts decision to strike down affirmative action in college admissions, has started a campaign to use the Civil Rights Act of 1866 to attack diversity efforts in business.

The Cleveland Foundation, which serves Black families in Greater Cleveland, Ohio, is investing more than $1.3 million in 36 Black organizations. (Photo: Screenshot/YouTube.com/Cleveland Foundation)

Joe Black, program manager for racial equity & racial justice programs at the Cleveland Foundation, noted a nationwide fundraising boom after Floyds murder in May 2020, but it has since subsided.

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We are committed to raising additional funds to continue supporting Black-led organizations, demonstrating our desire to focus not just on the moment, Black said in a statement, but to think about the long-term impacts of change.

The Cleveland Black Futures Funds long-term objectives include expanding the pool of leaders engaged in the fight against structural racism and moving the people closer to racial parity.

The fund, which has given over $4.4 million in grants to more than 130 groups in Northeast Ohio, is currently funding its fourth round of awards. Jordan Community Resource/Residential Center, which helps women recovering from addiction and human trafficking, received the largest donation of $100,000. Other recipients include Hands-On Health, The Tavern Coffee House, Ohio Sister Circle, Young Men Growing, Larchmere Porchfest and Queen IAM, their gifts ranging from $15,000 to $75,000.

Eligible organizations can apply for the fifth round of funding in early spring 2024.

The Cleveland Foundation and its contributors have committed hundreds of millions of dollars to enhance healthcare access, housing, education and employment opportunities in greater Cleveland  where, while its expenditures have raised the quality of life for area families, racial gaps still persist. Even more than 50 years after the passage of the Fair Housing Act, the city remains among the most racially divided in the country, both physically and in terms of the outcomes of the economy, education and health, among other factors.

The focused efforts of Blum, president of the American Alliance for Equal Rights, are among them.

In June, the Supreme Court determined that the University of North Carolinas and Harvard Universitys race-conscious student admissions standards are illegal, a result of challenges brought by the Blum-founded Students for Fair Admissions.

He plans to use that successful legal action as the basis for the groups future litigation.

So far, AAER has filed at least three lawsuits against initiatives to advance diversity. Its founder asserts that they are discriminatory because they exclude candidates based on race.

The common theme of these organizations is to challenge in the courts the use of racial classifications and preferences in our nations policies, Blum said, theGrio previously reported.

TheGrio is FREE on your TV via Apple TV, Amazon Fire, Roku and Android TV. Also, please download theGrio mobile apps today!

The post Cleveland Foundation gives 36 Black organizations over $1.3 million appeared first on TheGrio.
The News

A new world order may be forming faster than Washington expected.

The convening last week of the five original members states of the BRICS geopolitical bloc  Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa  and the announcement in Johannesburg of the inclusion of six more countries next year, will challenge U.S. and Western positions on a range of military, economic, and technology issues in short order, current and former U.S. officials and international analysts told Semafor. The preeminent role of China and Russia in growing this coalition, and their successful wooing of both U.S. partners, such as Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and the United Arab Emirates, and adversaries, like Iran, was almost unthinkable until recently.

The Kremlins war in Ukraine will likely be the first place where the BRICSs influence will be felt, according to these officials and analysts. The Biden administration and Europe have been seeking to forge a united front with developing countries, often referred to as the global south, to isolate Moscow economically and diplomatically to force Vladimir Putin to end the war. But this effort has been resisted by the BRICSs three original democratic members  Brazil, South Africa, and India. And this significant expansion of BRICS will give countries even more space to resist American and Western pressure. (Host South Africa said 40 additional countries are seeking membership.)

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BRICSs emergence will have a significant impact on multiple other strategic fronts in the coming years as well, said these officials and analysts. The attendees at last weeks Johannesburg summit were particularly focused on forging a financial system far less dependent on the U.S. dollar and Western institutions like the World Bank. Success on this front will help shield incoming BRICS members, such as Iran, who are heavily sanctioned by the U.S. for their national security policies, such as the pursuit of nuclear technologies.

China, Russia, and Iran have also signaled their desire to expand their military alliance to include other non-Western countries. Beijing and Moscow have been conducting expansive joint-naval exercises in recent months, and Iran has been providing drones and munitions for Russias war efforts. These countries could seek to turn BRICS, along with the China-led Shanghai Cooperation Organization, into a security forum in the coming years, potentially to challenge NATO.

Any hitching of strategic wagons to China and Russia will have significant consequences for these countries and their relationships with the U.S. and Europe, said Richard Goldberg, who served as a senior official on the Trump administrations national security council. The question is: What will BRICS actually try to do?

Jays view

The BRICS countries have been clear about their desire to develop a multipolar world, in which the U.S.  or two Cold War camps  cant dominate strategic and economic matters globally. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, the summits host, told attendees: The BRICS are starting a new chapter. But forging this multipolar world is easier said than done.

The U.S. and its allies have put in place over the past 75 years military and financial systems that limit, in many ways, countries freedom of action. Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Brazil all appear intent to play both sides in the growing competition between Washington and the West on one side and Beijing and Moscow on the other. But the challenges to this approach are already appearing.

Take American sanctions. The Treasury Department has established so-called secondary powers: This means Washington can penalize any country doing business with entities blacklisted by the U.S. As BRICS grows, its members will be committed to integrate countries like Iran and Russia economically. But this could place Riyadh, Abu Dhabi, and Cairo squarely in the crosshairs of U.S. sanctions. On the other extreme, it could cause the U.S.s sanctions architecture to collapse.

U.S. military cooperation could also be at risk. The U.S. sells weapons systems, in part, to bind foreign militaries to the Pentagon and make their systems interoperable. But as U.S.-partnered countries forge security arrangements with China and Russia  unilaterally or potentially through BRICS  the U.S. runs the risk that its military technologies and intelligence will leak to American adversaries. Thats why the Biden administration was alarmed last month when China announced it was conducting joint-air missions with the UAE, which uses many American weapons systems.

Room for Disagreement

The White House has sought to downplay over the past week the idea that the BRICS coalition is emerging as a major challenge to the U.S. and G-7 bloc of industrialized countries. National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan has stressed the divisions among the BRICS nations and the fact that the Biden administration was working to deepen its relationships with India, South Africa, and Brazil. We are not looking at the BRICS as evolving into some kind of geopolitical rival to the United States or anyone else, Sullivan said. This is a very diverse collection of countries in its current iteration with Brazil, India, South Africa as democracies, Russia and China as autocracies, with differences of view on critical issues in the Indo-Pacific, in the war in Ukraine, on a range of other things.

A number of outside analysts also said the BRICS face a host of challenges and internal contradictions. The bloc is dependent on China remaining a global financial engine, even as its economy shows signs of slowing. And a number of BRICS members, current and in the future, have deep concerns about aligning with Russia, China, and Iran. They note, for example, that no Southeast Asian countries have signed up, and many in the region have shown a desire to move closer to Washington to mitigate the Chinese challenge. Adding more diverging voices to the BRICS will only increase the challenge of reaching agreement on key areas, wrote Colleen Cottle, deputy director of the Atlantic Councils Global China Hub.

Notable

Xi Jinping and Narendra Modi used the BRICS Summit last week to seek to deescalate tensions on the Chinese-Indian border.

Indonesia, which has maritime disputes with China, has voiced skepticism towards joining BRICS.
On August 19, a Russian Tu-22M bomber was reportedly destroyed while it was parked in an airfield in northwestern Russia. Russias defense ministry, while downplaying the damage to the bomber, stated that it was hit by a copter-style drone. Ukraines Defense Intelligence Directorate (GUR) has since claimed credit for the attack. The targeted bomber itself, a venerable Cold War design, has a long history, with its use against Ukraine only the latest chapter.

Evidence of the attack comes from multiple sources. The United Kingdoms Ministry of Defence has been watching and offering public commentary on the war in Ukraine ever since Russia launched its full-scale invasion in February 2022, and on August 22 the Ministry tweeted that the Tu-22M3 BACKFIRE medium bomber of Russias Long Range Aviation [LRA] was highly likely destroyed at Soltsky-2 Airbase in Novgorod Oblast, 650 km away from Ukraines border. (The Tu-22Ms NATO designation, or the term used by NATO countries to distinguish between Soviet-made planes, is Backfire.)

That strike, just over 400 miles away from Ukraine, is beyond the range of most Ukrainian weapons, unless someone were nearby to launch a close-in attack. It also illustrates the range that Russias bombers have been able to cover in order to attack people and places in Ukraine.

As the BBC notes, Russia has a fleet of 60 Tu-22M bombers, meaning the country can absorb the loss of one bomber while still operating at regular effectiveness. Nevertheless, photographic and satellite evidence indicate that despite claims from the Russian military otherwise, the bomber was almost certainly a complete loss.

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Aside from showing the burned aircraft, the satellite images also show that Russia has since evacuated all other Backfires that had been parked at Soltsy-2 on August 16, reports The War Zone. (The War Zone is owned by Recurrent Ventures, PopScis parent company.) While the attack did not destroy all 10 bombers visible on satellite photography on August 16, it did destroy one, and likely forced the others to further interior air bases for safekeeping.

Cold War origins

The Tu-22M is the second class of bomber under the Tu-22 name. The original Tu-22, named Blinder by NATO, was an early Cold War supersonic bomber, the first bomber capable of dashes at speeds faster than the speed of sound used by the Soviet Union. The design of the Blinder was underwhelming, with limited range and performance. While the bomber saw use in the Soviet occupation of Afghanistan, in wars against foes with anti-aircraft missiles, Tu-22 Blinders were regularly shot down. Ukraine, which inherited its military equipment from the USSR, had Tu-22 Blinders in its inventory in 2000, though the plane has long since been retired with one left as a literal museum piece.

Meanwhile, the Tu-22M, while borrowing that Tu-22 designation, is a wholly different design, meant to fill the same role. The Tu-22M has variable-geometry swept wings, meaning it can have the wings spread out wide for more efficient flight at subsonic speed, while the wings can fold back for reduced drag when flying supersonic, something like US-made F-14s. The Tu-22Ms original mission was to destroy US bombers and airfields.

While the first flight of a Tu-22M took place in 1969, the bombers were built up gradually over the 1970s and 1980s. Tu-22Ms saw use in the Soviet war in Afghanistan in the 1980s, and were largely mothballed in the early 1990s, as Russias strategic picture changed following the dissolution of the USSR.

The aircraft functions as a conventional bomber, the role the Tu-22M took in Afghanistan and presently performs above Ukraine. It was also built to be capable of carrying nuclear weapons, including both nuclear bombs and nuclear-armed cruise missiles.

The mission of the bomber, peripheral attack or intercontinental attack, became one of the most fiercely contested intelligence debates of the Cold War, reports the Federation of American Scientists. The key variable was the estimate of the range of the aircraft. A series of competitive analyses to determine the range produced divergent results and failed to end the debate.

The Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA) initially assessed the Tu-22Ms range at up to 3,100 miles, while the CIA instead assumed 2,090 miles. Part of the complication is that the Tu-22M can be fitted with a probe to permit air refueling, though the probes are not permanently installed on the plane. Russian sources, since made public, attest to a range of 3,170 miles for the model that entered service in 1976, and 4,350 miles for the version that entered service in 1981. These ranges put the bomber, and its feared nuclear payload, squarely in the intercontinental range. Cruising speed for the Tu-22m is 560 mph, while maximum speed is 1,430 mph.

Modern warfare

Using the technology of the time, the Tu-22M is designed to evade defenses in two distinct ways. Supersonic speeds allow the bombers to strike fast and outpace missile interceptors. Subsonic flight, at low altitudes, is designed to let the bomber fly below the radar, or low enough to the ground that attempts to track it by radar would fail by getting extra feedback from the ground, confounding it.

The first Tu-22M lost in combat occurred during Russias August 2008 five-day-long invasion of Georgia, the neighboring country in the Caucasus mountains bordering the Black Sea. While Russia handily bested its minuscule neighbor, the loss of any aircraft in combat was surprising. (The war ended with Russias military occupying and guaranteeing the breakaway of South Ossetia and Abkhazia, two Georgian provinces.)

At the time, the Russian military claimed that the Tu-22M lost was a reconnaissance variant. Former Russian air force chief Anatoly Kornukov told the Associated Press in 2008 that Using the Tu-22 for a reconnaissance mission over Georgia was the same as using a microscope to drive nails.

Above Ukraine in 2022, the Tu-22M was observed dumping unguided bombs on the then-Ukrainian held parts of Mauripol, the Black Sea city encircled by invading Russian forces as the military fought its way from the Donbas to Crimea. Carpet bombing is one of the oldest ways planes have been used in war, and because it does not deliver precision strikes, it is a reliable way to create swathes of indiscriminate desolation and brutality.

Beyond carpet bombing, the Tu-22M bombers were used as missile-launching platforms alongside other Russian bombers in the Long Range Aviation, part of the Russian Aerospace Forces. These bombers could hit targets deep from the frontlines, and importantly far from Ukrainian air defenses, by using their range and speed to launch anti-ship missiles against terrestrial targets, causing panic and destruction.

While capable of hitting targets at great range, a supersonic bomber built to penetrate Cold War air defenses being used to fire missiles and fly away is a far cry from its original purpose. Both Ukraine and Russia have struggled to establish control over the skies in the present conflict, leaving each side to adapt to new ways to ground the others aircraft.
Law enforcement respond to the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill campus (AP)

A college campus in North Carolina is waking up on Tuesday gripped by fear, grief and many unanswered questions.

Just days into the start of a new term, students and faculty members at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill found themselves hunkering down inside classrooms and leaping from first floor windows as an active shooting situation unfolded on site.

Inside the science building, a faculty member was found shot dead.

Following a brief moment where the wrong person was arrested  an unsuspecting individual who missed the shelter-in-place alerts  campus police confirmed that the gunman had been taken into custody around 10 minutes from the scene.

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The suspect, identified as graduate student Tailei Qi, has now been charged with first-degree murder.

Harrowingly, the horror and heartbreak is a somewhat familiar sight for the UNC community coming four years after a mass shooting at the Charlotte campus left two dead and four injured.

Officials are yet to release the identity of the victim in this latest attack or what may be the motive behind the shooting, with much of the details of what happened and why still unclear.

Heres what we do know so far about the shooting:

The shooting

The shooting unfolded at around 1pm local time on Monday when UNC Police responded to a 911 call reporting gunfire at the science lab in the heart of the campus.

Law enforcement arrived on the scene around two minutes after the call came in and plunged the campus into lockdown, warning that an armed and dangerous person was at large.

Law enforcement and first responders gather on South Street near the Bell Tower on the campus (AP)

Officials later confirmed that a faculty member had been shot dead inside a campus building.

Chilling footage shows terrified students and staff members barricaded inside classrooms and offices for fear that an active shooter was at large.

Soon after, the UNC Police released an image of Mr Qi  naming him only as a person of interest in the case and warning the public that if you see this person, keep your distance, put your safety first and call 911.

Around three hours on from the shooting, police confirmed that the suspect had been arrested near a residential area 10 minutes away from the campus.

The gun is yet to be recovered, police said.

The lockdown was eventually lifted at around 4.15pm.

This photo shows a person of interest in todays armed and dangerous person situation. If you see this person, keep your distance, put your safety first and call 911. pic.twitter.com/NHG5CTjby4  UNC Police (@UNCPolice) August 28, 2023

The suspect

The suspect was identified on Tuesday as Tailei Qi, a graduate student who joined the Yan Lab of the college in 2022.

Based on his online bio at the UNC, he studied under Dr Zijie Yan  the leader of the physical chemistry group the Yan Research Group and head of the Department of Applied Physical Sciences.

Before joining UNC, Mr Qi previously studied material science at Louisiana State University and physics at Wuhan University.

A Twitter account believed to belong to Mr Qi reveals that he had railed against his work and his head of lab as well as what he described as bullies in the US before allegedly carrying out the shooting.

In a post on 1 August 2022, he wrote: Bully in america seems to be a problem. It often comes with people not stopping them at the first time.

Tailei Qi booking photo (Orange County Jail)

Explanation is not a solution but makes them feel others will plead them every time they raise a problem, making them voyeur to find an excuse day and night.

Two weeks later on 18 August 2022, he tweeted about his PI  referring to his unnamed head of lab  handling these girls and tattletales.

Just have a talk with my PI and get his promise. He should have more experience to handle with these girls and tattletales, he wrote.

Then, we can just get ourselves out of these stupid topic. Lets just focus our attention on nature.I wont change anything if not necessary.

Two months later in October, he referred to his PI again and an unidentified group of people.

Both the group of people to say I am lazy and that to prove me working hard instead of telling me that are trying to consume my privacy. I judge their motivation is only to tell my PI then control me by taletelling, he tweeted.

But its weird when I talked about it with my PI, he said no people spoke to him about that. so its nothing but some voyeurism for these people?

In other posts, Mr Qi addressed a mystery woman who he vowed to just let her go and his exhaustion with his workload.

I used to walk 80+ hours per week and I feel relaxing and energetic. Now I only work 60+ hours per week and I feel tired, he wrote in one.

In a post in July 2022  before he is believed to have started at UNC that fall  he posted a cryptic message calling his treatment by an unnamed boss disgusting.

Tailei Qi posted online about grievances with bullies, his PI and girls (X/Tailei Qi)

Just feel my privacy was insulted. When I work, I will think I was showing the boss I am working instead of interests, devaluing the meaning of my work, he wrote.

Thats so disgusting. Self-respect block me from working. Then it takes pains to convince myself what I do is just because I like.

In another post that same month, he wrote that only work with no play makes Jim a dull boy.

The Twitter account has the same name and the same image as both Mr Qis bio and the person of interest sent out by police during the brief manhunt.

It describes him as Graduate student @UNC, engaged in light-matter interaction and related materials.

In one post in early August  just weeks before the shooting  he issued an appeal to meet people at the college.

I would like to make some new friends. I am a second-year PhD student, interested in nanoparticle synthesis, optical trapping, self-assembly, spectra analysis, and ML, he said. a bit stupid in daily trifles, very enthusiastic talking about research. Reach me if inerest.

The victim

The identity of the victim is yet to be released with officials saying that they need to first notify next of kin.

At this time, it is unclear what connection the suspect and vcitim have to each other.

The motive also remains unknown at this time.

To actually have the suspect in custody gives us an opportunity to figure out the why and even the how, and also helps us to uncover a motive and really just why this happened today. Why today, why at all? UNC Police Chief Brian James said.

Law enforcement and first responders respond to the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (AP)

And we want to learn from this incident and we will certainly work to do our best to ensure that this never happens again on the UNC campus.

UNC-Chapel Hill Chancellor Kevin M Guskiewicz said in a statement that a hotline and other mental health resources were on offer for staff and students affected by the shooting.

The students are certainly traumatised, he said.

But I want to commend those who were inside the building ensuring everyones safety.

Classes have been canceled through Tuesday following the deadly shooting.

Due to todays incident on campus, UNC-Chapel Hill will operate at a Condition 2 on Tuesday, Aug. 29. This means that classes are canceled, and non-mandatory operations are suspended, the UNC said in an update.
A long-term closure and detour are scheduled to begin in September on the ramp connecting the northbound TriState Tollway (I294) to eastbound Ogden Avenue for reconstruction work as part of the Ogden Avenue Interchange Project, according to a news release.

Advance work scheduled for this week will require overnight lane closures on I-294, the release said. Delays are expected.

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Electronic message signs and construction signage will be put in place in advance to alert drivers to lane closures on I-294 and the ramp closure and detour, the release said. Up-to-date closure and detour information will be posted on the Tollway website and in the Daily Construction Alert. All work is weather dependent.

During the week of Aug. 28, up to three nights of overnight lane closures on northbound I-294 are scheduled, with up to two lanes closed at a time for work to prepare for the ramp closure, the release said. Lane closures are scheduled to begin at 7 p.m. and all lanes are anticipated to reopen by 5 a.m. the following morning.

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At 8 p.m. Sept. 5, the ramp connecting northbound I-294 to eastbound Ogden Avenue is scheduled to close through October, according to the release. A detour will be posted routing traffic through the interchange to access eastbound Ogden Avenue.

The release said construction in the area is being coordinated with the Illinois Department of Transportation, Village of Hinsdale, Village of Oak Brook, Village of Western Springs, Cook County Department of Transportation, DuPage County Division of Transportation, Forest Preserves of Cook County, Oak Brook Park District, as well as local fire and police departments.

Information about the Ogden Avenue Interchange Project including maps and construction updates is available on the Tollways website at www.illinoistollway.com in the Projects section.

The Illinois Tollway is investing $8.9 million to reconfiguring the Ogden Avenue Interchange to improve mobility and traffic flow for local drivers and Tollway customers, the release said. Currently up to 40,000 vehicles use the interchange daily with up to 33,600 vehicles traveling on Ogden Avenue in the area

To accommodate the reconstruction and widening of the Central TriState Tollway, the Ogden Avenue Interchange will be reconfigured from a cloverleaf design to a partial cloverleaf design, according to the release. The Illinois Tollway is combining ramps on the east side of I294 to create one signalized access ramp from Ogden Avenue to northbound I294 and the ramp connecting northbound I294 to eastbound Ogden Avenue will be relocated with access control at the new traffic signal.

Improvements on Ogden Avenue will include repairs and median reconstruction on the existing bridge over I294, the release said. In addition, on eastbound Ogden Avenue a new left turn lane will be constructed to provide access to northbound I294 and the merge lane will be extended to provide vehicles exiting the Tollway with additional distance to merge. The project also includes noisewall construction, drainage and lighting improvements and landscaping.

The $4 billion Central Tri-State Tollway (I-294) Project is reconstructing and widening the roadway between Balmoral Avenue and 95th Street to provide congestion relief, update old infrastructure to meet current and future transportation demand and address regional needs. This work is part of the Tollways 15-year, $14 billion capital program, Move Illinois: The Illinois Tollway Driving the Future. More than 220,000 vehicles use the Central Tri-State Tollway daily.

According to the news release, construction zone speed limits are in effect in all construction zones 24/7 and drivers should continue to watch for changing traffic patterns and use caution, especially when workers are present. On I-294, a 45 mph work zone speed limit is in effect throughout the construction season. On Ogden Avenue, a 35 mph work zone speed limit is in effect.
NEW YORK  A Colorado man accused of tearing down LGBTQ rainbow flags by NYCs historic Stonewall Inn during a Pride month hate crime was arrested Monday on charges police said were part of a pattern of attacks in the area.

Cops charged Patrick Murphy, 25, of Denver, with committing criminal mischief as a hate crime for the June 10 vandalism incident by the West Village national monument.

Joined by two others, Murphy and his fellow hatemongers allegedly tore down several rainbow-colored flags displayed on a fence by the Stonewall National Monument in Christopher Park on Christopher St. before fleeing east on Waverly Place.

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The NYPD Hate Crimes Task Force asked for the publics assistance in tracking down another man who tore down multiple transgender flags days later on June 15, again at around 3 a.m., at the park where an 1969 NYPD raid sparked the gay rights movement.

In a third incident police are investigating, multiple people tore down flags at the park around 8 a.m. on June 18.

Attacks on LGBTQ Americans have risen in tandem with a surge of hateful and divisive political rhetoric and legislation introduced by GOP-dominated legislatures rolling back their rights, particularly affecting transgender youth, according to the Anti-Defamation League and the Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation known as GLAAD.

The groups recorded 356 such incidents between June 2022 and April 2023, according to a report issued in June.

The recent fatal shooting of a clothing store owner near San Bernardino, Calif., by a man who made disparaging remarks about the shops Pride flag sparked both anger and fear.

Extreme legislation sweeping Southern states criminalizing gender-affirming medical care  available for decades  has impacted about 90% of trans youth in the South, according to the Campaign for Southern Equality. Medical care has also been partially restricted for trans adults in Florida and Missouri.

In Florida, teachers have been banned from discussing gender identity and sexual orientation at all grade levels. Tens of thousands of high school students are expected to be impacted by the lesson plan restrictions that forbid AP psychology educators from discussing the influence of sex and gender on development and socialization.

Murphy was awaiting arraignment in Manhattan Criminal Court on Monday. His attorney could not be reached for comment.

_____
Columbus police identified the person who was killed at Easton Town Center as 15-year-old Ra'Shawyn Carter.

A 15-year-old teen has been identified as the person who was killed in a shooting Sunday evening at Easton Town Center.

Columbus police have arrested two 13-year-old boys in connection with the shooting. One of the suspects faces a juvenile charge of murder and the other faces a juvenile charge of obstruction of justice. The attorney and great-grandfather of the shooting suspect appeared Monday afternoon in Franklin County Juvenile Court but not the teen himself. The other teen charged appeared with his mother and an attorney.

Officers arrested the teens shortly after the shooting was first reported around 6:15 p.m. Sunday in an outdoor area at Easton Town Center. Sgt. Joseph Albert said a Columbus police officer who was working a special assignment found Ra'Shawyn Carter, 15, within 60 seconds and began giving him CPR and medical treatment.

Paramedics took Carter to Mount Carmel East hospital, where he died at 6:50 p.m. Sunday.

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Police took more than 30 calls to 911 about the shooting, many of which were from people who did not see or hear the shot, but called after seeing people running or yelling about a possible active shooter at the shopping center.

An employee at the lululemon store on The Strand East, almost a block from the main mall and AMC theaters building, called to say the shooting happened outside their store and that customers and employees were in a back room with the store's doors locked.

"Someone has been shot outside of our store, yes," the employee told the dispatcher. "Everyone just saw it happen and ran to the back in fight or flight."

Around 7:35 p.m. Sunday, about 90 minutes after the shooting, Carter's mother, Trenise Turner, called police trying to find her son, according to 911 calls The Dispatch obtained Tuesday. She said her son was shot and she went to multiple hospitals trying to find him.

Another caller told dispatchers she saw two teenage boys, believed to be the suspects in the shooting, standing near the doorway of the Jimmy John's about three minutes after the shooting was reported.

"One of them had a gun," the caller said.

According to court records from Franklin County Juvenile Court released Tuesday, the 13-year-old accused of shooting Carter was seen on video pulling the trigger, running from the scene and putting the gun into a trash can at a restaurant, where police arrested him. Police say that teen also allegedly confessed to the killing.

Authorities allege the other teen, who is charged with juvenile obstruction of justice, was seen on video with the other suspect at the time of the shooting and the two were together when police arrested them. Court records allege that teen lied to investigators about knowing about the shooting.

Easton shooting: What we know about the Easton Town Center shooting on Sunday night

This is not the first time a 13-year-old has been charged with juvenile murder in Franklin County. In 2019, Juano Peyton was charged with juvenile murder after fatally shooting 14-year-old Jaykwon Sharp in an argument over a cellphone.

Ohio law does not allow 13-year-olds to be tried as adults for any charge, including murder.

About Carter

Carter played last year for the Columbus Dream football team, said Dominic Jones, president of the teams' parent organization, Legacy Youth Academy.

"He was a great kid," Jones said. "He was a part of our league last year, somebody who had a bright future, always had a smile on his face and he'll be greatly missed by our community."

Carter was a "star in the making," Jones said, and it will be hard for the community to heal from his loss.

Dispatch reporter Danae King contributed to this story.

bbruner@dispatch.com

@bethany_bruner

This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Columbus police identify 15-year-old killed in Easton Town Center shooting
A new study sheds some light on using metformin as a long COVID prevention tool.

A new study sheds some light on using metformin as a long COVID prevention tool.

It seems like every time you turn on the news or open your phone, new information about COVID-19 pops up.

Most of this information is pertinent to the latest variant EG.5, also called Eris, but recently, other more promising news is making its rounds: Metformin, a drug generally used to treat type 2 diabetes, may be used to prevent long COVID.

According to Dr. Jacob Teitelbaum, a board-certified internist specializing in the treatment of chronic fatigue syndrome and fibromyalgia, approximately 10% of people who get COVID (even a mild case) come down with long COVID. The condition is exactly what it sounds like  symptoms of the infection linger for days, weeks, months and even years.

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These complications may include chronic pain, brain fog, shortness of breath, chest pain and intense fatigue. Other common symptoms include nausea, abdominal pain, loss of appetite, heartburn and constipation.

Now, doctors are hoping metformin might be a solution after a recent study suggests that the popular prescription may reduce a persons risk for developing the condition following a COVID infection. Heres what experts want you to know.

What did the study find?

The research, published in the The Lancet in June, showed that taking metformin for two weeks during an acute COVID infection decreased the risk of getting long COVID by 63% if started in the first four days of the infection. The risk of getting long COVID was reduced by 42% if the infected person started taking metformin after four days.

Metformin has been identified as a COVID-19 therapeutic agent due to its in vitro antiviral activity, its antithrombotic and anti-inflammatory activity, and its work against protein production, said Jennifer Bourgeois, a health and pharmacy expert at SingleCare who was not affiliated with the study. In other words: Metformin may have properties that can reduce clotting, protein production and inflammation  issues that can be part of long COVID.

The study examined 1,431 participants between the age of 30 and 85 who were considered overweight or obese. All volunteers were either given metformin or a metformin placebo. One subset was also given ivermectin (an antiparasitic drug that people have attempted to use to treat COVID, despite concerns from experts) or an ivermectin placebo, fluvoxamine (a mental health medication that showed some early promise for preventing COVID hospitalizations in high-risk patients) or a fluvoxamine placebo.

The participants then reported on their symptoms for up to 10 months following their COVID-19 diagnosis; any long COVID diagnoses were also confirmed by the study volunteers medical provider. The results showed that metformin use saw the biggest reduction in long COVID risk.

The researchers did note that there is selection bias in that individuals who choose to enroll in clinical trials and complete 10 months of follow-up surveys might not represent the general population affected by COVID-19 and long COVID.

Researchers excluded low-risk adults from the study.

Further research is needed to determine if the COVID vaccine contributes to the reduction in long COVID and if metformin is also effective in adults with previous infection and with normal body mass index, said Dr. Phillip Kadaj, a physician and medical expert on JustAnswer.com who was not affiliated with the research.

Heres what this means for the future of long COVID treatment.

Experts say the results are promising. If it turns out that this holds up in the real world, it could be a low-cost way to tackle long COVID. As a diabetes treatment, metformin has also been shown to be safe for use in children, and during pregnancy and lactation. Researchers hope the same holds true for COVID treatment.

I would caution readers to let the data develop a little bit further regarding metformin, Kadaj said. I wouldnt run out and start taking medication to prevent long COVID based on one study. Let the data develop and accumulate and make decisions based on multiple studies.

While this study with metformin has shown good results for some individuals, other methods  like using paxlovid after an infection  are also currently being studied as long COVID prevention, too. Because the condition is so new, scientists still need to do lots of research in order to definitively determine the best courses of treatment. However, experts agree these results could be a game changer in the future after more studies are done.

The best way to prevent long COVID now is to do all you can to not get a COVID infection in the first place. Experts still stress the same precautions weve known for years are still applicable now, including:

Washing your hands.

This is something weve all been doing our entire lives, but its important more now than ever. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends scrubbing your hands with soap for at least 20 seconds for optimal results  this is the equivalent to two happy birthday songs.

Wearing a mask.

You can wear a mask when youre in a public setting to help prevent the spread of germs, especially if youre in crowded, indoor spaces. Keep the mask over your nose, mouth and chin. The World Health Organization advises against wearing masks with valves.

Getting tested and staying home if you dont feel well.

If youre not feeling well, its important to stay away from people to reduce any spread of the virus. Taking tests at the first signs of symptoms is also important so you can start any potential treatment you may need, depending on your risk level.

This article has been updated to clarify details of the study results and to remove an incorrect statement that the researchers did not control for vaccine status.

Related...
After a developer proposed a 60-unit mixed affordable housing development last fall for the south portion of Evanston along the lakefront, Evanston 3rd Ward Alderperson Melissa Wynne is hosting a community meeting Thursday, Aug. 31 for neighbors and interested parties to discuss it.

Cleveland-based PIRHL is set to develop the project and will be at the 7 p.m. community meeting alongside representatives from the Housing Authority of Cook County and the City of Evanston to present the project proposal and answer questions.

The development would be contained in one building, 504 to 514 South Boulevard, and sit next to the Catholic Cavalry Cemetery and is currently occupied by a city-operated parking lot, along with four townhomes owned by the Housing Authority of Cook County. It would be built within sight of the South Boulevard Purple Line station, making the project a transit-oriented development.

South Boulevard Shores, as the development is set to be named, was proposed in October 2022 Units in the building will range in price from market rate to 30 to 100% of area median income with one, two and three bedroom options available. Plans available on the citys website say half the available units will be one bedrooms with 12 two bedrooms and 18 three bedrooms.

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The plan would allow for 20 public parking spots to remain available for permitting by the city along the southern border of the site.

Plans call for construction to begin by the end of 2023 with construction complete in spring 2025. Stabilized occupancy is expected to be complete by summer 2025.

Neighbors of the proposed project have previously expressed concern about the buildings height. Documents for the project state the development will take advantage of the additional 12 foot allowance on top of the area zoning limit of five stories to bring the building to 62 feet, the maximum allowed.

Others expressed concern for the future of those currently living in the Chicago Housing Authority townhomes. HACC official Jesse Silva said in October those residents would be offered moving assistance to either a rental unit with a housing voucher or another unit owned by the county in Evanston. Plans also call for HACC to pay moving costs.

Documents from the HACC and PIRHL said the townhomes are not an efficient use of the current space allowed by zoning rules and replacing them will constitute an improvement. The city also states the parking lot is underutilized, with only four spots for residential parking, for the town home occupants, of which three are being used. The lot can currently accommodate 69 parking permit holders.

Evanstons Economic Development Manager Paul Zalmezak said in October there are no plans for expansion of the project, as the cemetery is unwilling to sell property.

A traffic study completed by Kenig, Lindgren, OHara, Aboona, Inc. concluded the proximity to public transit will reduce area traffic, the driveway access for the development would create limited traffic impact on the area and area intersections have the ability to accommodate traffic generated by the new building. Kenig, Lindgren, OHara, Aboona, Inc. suggested that signs be placed at the intersection of South Boulevard and Callan Avenue to indicate traffic on South Boulevard has the right of way and does not stop.
Hey, everyone! Drew here.

Lets get straight to todays news.

Dr. Zijie Yan was killed Aug. 28, 2023, on the campus of UNC-Chapel Hill. Hes remembered for excelling in research, cooking meals for his roommates and celebrating good experimental results with a huge smile.

The academic community mourned the loss of Zijie Yan today, the physics professor slain during yesterdays shooting at UNC-Chapel Hill.

Yan, 38, lived in Apex, N.C., and had two young children. Tomorrow at 1:02 p.m., the Bell Tower on Chapel Hills campus will ring in honor of Dr. Yan, Chancellor Kevin Guskiewicz announced.

Teddy Rosenbluth and Josh Shaffer share more reaction to Yans death.

The remains of a house that sustained an explosion around 11:52pm Monday night are seen on the 280 block of Barber Loop Road on Tuesday, August 22, 2023. Mooresville firefighters found one person dead in the 25-foot pile of rubble.

The cause of last weeks house explosion in Mooresville was confirmed this morning.

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Officials say a natural gas explosion caused the house to collapse, killing Robert M. Farley, father of Tennessee Titans cornerback Caleb Farley.

Julia Coin has more on the cause of the explosion.

Several health agencies, including the CDC and WHO, have been monitoring BA.2.86 because of its potential to evade the immunity most Americans have built up over the last few years.

A new COVID-19 variant has threatened to disrupt the immunity most Americans have built up over the last few years.

As of last week, the variant, BA.2.86, has been confirmed in several countries and two U.S. states, Virginia and Maryland.

Teddy Rosenbluth with more on what you need to know.

A long line of cars await a 7:00 a.m. drop-off for the first day of school at Waxhaw Elementary School on Monday, August 28, 2023.

School is back in session.

And with school comes early-morning traffic delays as Im sure were all too familiar with. But some parents have good reason for driving their kids to school rather than sending them on the school bus.

Anna Maria Della Costa opines on why she chooses to wait in those long pick-up lines.

5. Some more stories to read

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Thats it for now. Thanks for reading! If you dont already, subscribe to the Charlotte Observer here. If youre already a subscriber (thanks!), download our iOS or Android app to stay connected.

Find more updates at charlotteobserver.com, and follow along on Twitter, Instagram and Tik Tok to see more from us. Enjoy your day!

Did someone forward this newsletter to you? You can sign up here.

Drew Nantais is a Senior Growth & Engagement Producer for the Charlotte Observer.
[Source]

Constance Wu and Corbin Bleu have been tapped to play the roles of Audrey and Seymour, respectively, in the off-Broadway production of Little Shop of Horrors this September.

The change-up: The production broke the news in an Instagram post on Wednesday. Wu, 41, and Bleu, 34, will take over the roles of musical artists Joy Woods and Jeremy Jordan.

Jordan is set to take his final bow on Sept. 17, followed by Woods on Sept. 24.

More from NextShark: Michelle Zauner's 'Crying in H Mart' Set for Feature Film Adaptation

About their roles: The Crazy Rich Asians star will be playing Audrey, a flower shop employee and the love interest of Bleus struggling florist Seymour.

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In a recent statement, the High School Musical actor said he is looking forward to performing onstage with Wu and finding our Seymour and Audrey dynamic. He also noted that the excitement is mutual since he and Wu both love and crave live theater.

Dream come true: Speaking about the Little Shop of Horrors, Wu revealed that it became her favorite musical after she "first saw a community production growing up in Richmond, Virginia. She added that she can relate to her character's scrappiness and finding beauty in the simple things.

More from NextShark: Ateez hits new career high on Billboard 200 chart with 'The World Ep 1: Movement'

Past productions: Both Wu and Bleu have had their fair share of onstage appearances. Wu reportedly grew up performing in community theater productions in Richmond, and Bleu has starred in several productions before and after making his Broadway debut as Usnavi in "In the Heights" in 2010.

More from NextShark: Pretty Savage gamer: Blackpinks Jisoo named new ambassador for 'Maplestory'
A Copley Township man recently pleaded guilty to charges stemming from a 2022 crash in Stow that injured two road crew members.

Cartier Smith-Johnson, 24, was scheduled to go on trial next Wednesday in Summit County Common Pleas Court. He instead accepted an agreement with prosecutors and pleaded guilty to two counts of aggravated vehicular assault, fourth- and third-degree felonies, and one count each of failure to stop after an accident, a fourth-degree felony, and operating a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol, drugs or both, a first-degree misdemeanor.

Prosecutors agreed to drop the other charges he faced.

Judge Alison Breaux will sentence Smith-Johnson Sept. 27.

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Police say Smith-Johnson was driving west on Route 59 a mile west of the Portage County line in Stow about 12:17 a.m. last Aug. 31 when he drove into a coned-off work zone and struck two road workers. The contract workers were painting roadway markings at Hiwood Avenue.

Witnesses said Smith-Johnson and a passenger exited the car after the crash and fled. The passenger was located, treated for minor injuries and later released with no charges.

Police and a K-9 unit arrested Smith-Johnson after finding him hiding in a yard about three blocks from the scene.

The injured workers, ages 22 and 51, were both transported to Summa Akron City Hospital with serious injuries.

Smith-Johnsons blood-alcohol content was .086%, which is over the legal limit for driving in Ohio of .08%.

This article originally appeared on Akron Beacon Journal: Cartier Smith-Johnson pleads guilty in crash that injured road crew
Progressive third-party presidential candidate Cornel West called Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.), two of the more famous liberals in Congress, window dressing, at worst for the Democratic Party, in an interview on The Hills Rising on Tuesday.

West, who backed Sanderss 2016 White House bid, was asked to respond to remarks the Vermont independent made in a Sunday interview, during which he defended his support for President Bidens reelection bid by underscoring the importance of preserving democracy and preventing former President Trump from returning to the White House.

Brother Bernies making a plausible argument, but I think deep down in his heart, he knows that the Democratic Party has no fundamental intention of speaking to the needs of poor people and working people, the left-wing academic said, adding, and that he and AOC and the others are going to be in a certain sense, window dressing, at worst, and, at best, people to appeal to every four years.

But the Democratic Party is beyond redemption at this point when it comes to seriously speaking to the needs of poor and working people, West said.

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The Hill has reached out to the offices of Sanders and Ocasio-Cortez for further comment.

They have been two of the most vocal progressives in Congress and have consistently pushed the Biden administration to take more liberal positions and policy steps  including recently on his student loan debt forgiveness plan.

In an interview Sunday, Sanders pushed back on some earlier criticism from West, who had claimed the senator was supporting Biden because he was fearful of neo-fascism of Trump.

Where I disagree with my good friend of Cornel West is, I think in these really, very difficult times where there is a real question whether democracy is going to remain in the United States of America, Sanders said on CNNs State of the Union when asked about Wests remarks. He made a similar point on NBCs Meet the Press.

You know, Donald Trump is not somebody who believes in democracy, he continued on CNN. Whether women are going to be able to continue to control their own bodies, whether we have social justice in America, we end bigotry  around that, I think, we have got to bring the entire progressive community to defeat Trump or whoever the Republican nominee will be.

West responded on Tuesday: I think its a plausible argument. I just dont think its a persuasive one. I think that the argument hes making means that theres never any possibility for breaking from the corporate duopoly. Theres never any possibility of trying to speak to the needs of poor and working people.

Ocasio-Cortez also recently backed Bidens reelection efforts, saying on a podcast when asked, I think hes done quite well, given the limitations that we have.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
A Florida tax attorney, Lawrence Caplan, is challenging former President Donald Trump's eligibility to run for the White House again, arguing that Section 3 of the Constitution's 14th Amendment bars him from holding public office. The amendment, adopted after the Civil War, disqualifies anyone who has "engaged in insurrection or rebellion" or given "aid or comfort" to anyone who did. Caplan argues that's exactly what Trump did when he stirred up the mob of his supporters that attacked the Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, The Hill reported.

And he's not alone. Two prominent conservative legal scholars  law professors William Baude of the University of Chicago and Michael Stokes Paulsen of the University of St. Thomas, both members of the conservative Federalist Society  wrote in a recent University of Pennsylvania Law Review article that the Disqualification Clause definitely applies to Trump and many others who participated in or encouraged the storming of the Capitol in an attempt to prevent the certification of Trump's 2020 election loss.

Democrats have long argued that Trump and some Republican lawmakers, including Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene and former Rep. Madison Cawthorn, should be barred from holding office over their actions on Jan. 6. Trump's campaign shrugged off the new lawsuit, saying it had "no basis in fact or law" and would be promptly dismissed. But now that conservative legal experts are making the same argument as some Democrats, could the 14th Amendment derail Trump's attempt to return to the White House in the 2024 election?

What the commentators said

Trump undeniably "meets the standard" of the 14th Amendment, said Donald K. Sherman at The Hill. "All three branches of the government have identified the attack on the Capitol as an insurrection," and federal judges, House and Senate majorities, and the bipartisan House Jan. 6 committee have identified "Trump as its central cause." As Baude and Paulsen, the conservative scholars, note, Trump doesn't have to be convicted of treason or any other crime to be barred from seeking office. State and federal election officials can make the call on their own. A New Mexico county commissioner has already been booted from public life for recruiting Jan. 6 insurrectionists. Trump is next.

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Sorry, but the 14th Amendment doesn't apply to Trump or any of the Jan. 6 rioters, said Alan Dershowitz in the Alan Dershowitz Newsletter. The "text and history" of the 14th Amendment make it clear the "disability provision was intended to apply to those who served in the Confederacy during the Civil War." It was never supposed to empower "one party to disqualify the leading candidate of the other party in any future elections." Determining who had sided with the Confederacy was easy, but there's "no formal mechanism" for disqualifying somebody now. We would be left with some states striking Trump from the ballot and others leaving him on, which would trigger "a constitutional crisis" and open the door for Republican states to disqualify candidates who supported rebellious riots over, say, the killing of George Floyd.

Baude and Paulsen rightly point out that Section 3 of the 14th Amendment "did not lapse with the passing of the generation of Confederate rebels, whose treasonous designs for the country inspired the provision," said former federal appellate judge J. Michael Luttig and Harvard constitutional law professor emeritus Laurence H. Tribe in The Atlantic. The "post-Civil War Framers presciently foresaw" that it would never outlive the purpose it was intended to serve. "To the contrary, this provision of our Constitution continues to protect the republic from those bent on its dissolution." Any official who has taken an oath to uphold the Constitution is "obligated to enforce" the disqualification clause. This part of the Constitution is worth defending like any other.

What next?

Secretaries of state can simply refuse to print Trump's name on their ballots, and they're indicating that they have heard the arguments for applying the 14th Amendment "loud and clear," said Jennifer Rubin in The Washington Post. Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson (D) has indicated she will discuss the question with her counterparts in Georgia, Nevada, and Pennsylvania. "But she smartly recognized that whatever she and other secretaries decide, the issue will undoubtedly travel to the Supreme Court for a final determination." There's a risk that "the hyperpartisan Supreme Court will ride to Trump's rescue," ignoring the amendment's text to keep Trump on the ballot. Primary voters can prevent that ugly scenario by nominating someone else.

"If GOP primary voters put Trump on the 2024 presidential ballot, the American majority is going to have to beat him at the polls," said David Frum in The Atlantic. "The good news is that a consistent majority" of U.S. voters is resolutely anti-Trump. The bad news is that the anti-Trump majority is narrow and "disfavored by the Electoral College." But it's time to stop wishing for the 14th Amendment to become an "anti-Trump magic wand." That's "an unfeasible, unhelpful fantasy. Let it go."

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Ukraine has been campaigning for F-16 fighter jets since the start of Russias full-scale invasion. A year and a half later, the Netherlands, Denmark and Norway have agreed to supply them to Ukraines Air Force. But why are the F-16s so significant? Could they dramatically change the course of the war?

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
The cast and crew of Congo Square Theatre Company pose for a photo during the first rehearsal of Welcome to Matteson!, which runs from Sept. 6 to Oct. 1 in Abbott Hall at Northwestern Universitys downtown campus. (Sulyiman Stokes)

Starting in 1995, the Cabrini-Green public housing project on Chicagos Near North Side was torn down and the residents were forcibly relocated.

Playwright Inda Craig-Galvan envisions a dinner party between one couple who was moved from Cabrini-Green to a southwest suburb, and another couple who are longtime residents of that suburb, in Welcome to Matteson!

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Congo Square Theatre Company is producing this dark comedy as part of a National New Play Network Rolling World Premiere, Sept. 6-Oct. 1 at Abbott Hall on the Chicago campus of Northwestern University. It is also being produced by the New Jersey Repertory Company.

Performances are 7 p.m. Thursdays-Saturdays and 2 p.m. Saturdays-Sundays, with no 2 p.m. performance Sept. 9.

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I grew up in Chicago, said Los Angeles-based playwright Craig-Galvan. I moved to Park Forest around the time that the residents of Cabrini-Green were being relocated into various places. Years later, I saw online a flyer that had been distributed by someone saying, Do you want these people moving into your neighborhood?, with a hand-drawing of a burglar sneaking into a window.

Craig-Galvan said that she thought it was horrible and racist. Because of the anonymity of the flyer, the playwright began imagining who could have created that flyer and put it in mailboxes.

She thought, What if its someone who looked like me?

That led to her creation of the character of Patricia Griffith, an African-American woman who has some idea of what home means and wants to protect that at all costs, Craig-Galvan said.

The setting of the play is a dinner party that Patricia and her husband Gerald are hosting for new neighbors Regina and Corey Baker.

Its a play that looks at our values and what we hold as important. And how far people are willing to go to protect that, Craig-Galvan said.

Despite the serious subjects addressed in this play, it is a dark comedy. The comedy often comes from people being themselves in situations that they havent quite prepared for, the playwright said.

Fresh from her acclaimed performance in Marie and Rosetta at Northlight Theatre, Alexis J. Roston plays Regina Baker, whose family was relocated from Cabrini-Green.

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Regina is a smart cookie, Roston said. She grew up in Cabrini-Green and we know all the terrible stereotypes that people come up in their mind with about people who live in Cabrini-Green. Shes an exception to that stereotype.

Inda Craig-Galvan is the author of Welcome to Matteson!, which Congo Square Theatre Company is producing from Sept. 6 to Oct. 1 in Abbott Hall at Northwestern Universitys downtown campus. (Inda Craig-Galvan)

Regina smashes that stereotype for everyone who lived in that housing project. Roston said that Regina tells her dinner hosts, Cabrini is the same people that you interact with, just different experiences, just different tax brackets, just different access.

The woman makes it clear that she is happy wherever she lives. Roston said her characters philosophy is Where I am, that matters not. Its only whats inside of you that counts.

The actor added that Regina is a no-nonsense person who defends her beliefs.

Although Regina talks about how much all of them are alike, theres a major difference between the relationships the two couples have within their marriages, Roston noted.

Patricia has a certain air about her and Gerald knows that he married up, Roston said, which means that he is often saying, Yes, dear. Corey and Regina see each other all the time, Roston said. Even when theyre disagreeing, they communicate in a way that nobody has to walk away with an attitude.

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We wanted to stage this show because even though its Welcome to Matteson!, its a Chicago story, said Artistic Director Ericka Ratcliff, who is directing the dark comedy.

Its about a very troubling recent past of the city when the projects all around the city  particularly in this play Cabrini-Green  were shuttered and all those folks were displaced all around the surrounding areas outside of the city. This play revisits that recent history through a lens of comedy that allows us to observe what happened but also have a dialogue about how that affected our communities.

Some of the comedy is based on the miscommunications that occur between the couples who have experienced very different circumstances, the director said.

The characters are big personalities so the way they clash is quite comedic, Ratcliff explained.

Ratcliff noted that one couple has worked very hard to have the suburban lifestyle, while the other couple finds themselves in a suburb because they have been displaced.

With the characters, Their internal struggles are based on what they feel they deserve and what they feel they need to preserve, Ratcliff observed.

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Because its a world premiere, playwright Craig-Galvan attended Congo Squares first couple of rehearsals over Zoom, and had discussions with the cast and creative team. She will also attend a performance of the play.

Another play by Craig-Galvan, A Hit Dog Will Holler, opened Aug. 29 at Artemisia Theatre in Chicago.

I have been wanting to have a production in Chicago since Ive been writing, she said. I finally get it in twofold and I feel like its raining goodness right now.

Welcome to Matteson!

When: Sept. 6-Oct. 1

Where: Congo Square Theatre Company at Abbott Hall, Northwestern University, 710 N. DuSable Lake Shore Drive, Chicago

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Tickets: $45; $75 includes a second ticket for a community member

Information: 773-296-1108; congosquaretheatre.org

Myrna Petlicki is a freelance reporter for Pioneer Press.
A Fulton County Superior Court judge has set a deadline of Sept. 6 for anyone to raise an objection to releasing the final report of the special purpose grand jury that was the basis for the criminal indictment against former President Donald Trump and 18 of his allies.

Judge Robert McBurney filed a ruling Monday saying that, as long as there were no objections to the release of the report, he would make it public on Friday, Sept. 8.

Up until this point, only a very small portion has been made public.

[TIMELINE: Fulton County grand jury investigation into potential interference in Georgia elections]

We find by a unanimous vote that no widespread fraud took place in the Georgia 2020 election that could result in overturning that election, the report said.

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Also, a majority of the jurors believed perjury may have been committed by one or more witnesses and recommended that Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis seek appropriate indictments.

Willis has said they she would make the full report available at the appropriate time.

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Now that 19 people have been indicted in the case, several entities have been asking that the full report be released.

The Prosecuting Attorneys Council has asked that the full report be made public as it gets ready to appoint a special prosecutor to look into Lt. Gov. Burt Jones possible involvement in the case.

Jones was one of 16 false electors that the indictment said broke the law when they impersonated legal electors, signed their names to a document, and illegally transmitted it to Washington.

Sources confirmed to Channel 2s Richard Elliot that Jones is implicated in the indictment as unindicted co-conspirator No. 8.

Because of her ties to Jones Democratic opponent in the 2022 election, a judge barred Willis from prosecuting him.

One of the defendants indicted in the election interference case, Kenneth Chesebro, has also asked that the report be released.

Based on court filings and media reporting, numerous witnesses were subpoenaed to testify before the SPGJ, and in fact did testify, the court filing said. Mr. Chesebro anticipates that many of these same people will testify at his trial. Therefore, any recordings, transcripts and SPGJ reports are critical for Mr. Chesebro to obtain in order to properly prepare for trial, a motion filed on Monday said.

So far, there have been no objections filed over the publishing of the report.

RELATED NEWS:
Editor's note: The Kyiv Independent is not disclosing the soldiers interviewed in the story by their full names due to security concerns amid the ongoing war in Ukraine. The article also contains photos that some readers may find disturbing.

DONETSK OBLAST  Twenty-nine-year-old assault company commander Bohdan knows whats at stake when he makes decisions on the battlefield.

I'm very afraid of making a mistake, because a mistake costs someone's life, says Bohdan. The Kyiv-native leads a company of up to 100 assault soldiers with the 35th Separate Marine Brigade.

Nearly three months into the counteroffensive, the 35th, along with other units deployed nearby, has crawled southward  approximately 10 kilometers  on the Velyka Novosilka axis in Donetsk Oblast.

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Village after village, the Ukrainian soldiers put pressure on the Russian troops  through small regular assaults and striking targets inside the settlements. Once the Russians are sufficiently worn down, Ukrainian forces move forward in strength and retake the villages.

The liberation of the village of Urozhaine  just two kilometers east of the previously liberated Staromaiorske  in mid-August marked Ukraines latest notable success on this part of the front.

But any major push forward in this area, like along the rest of the front line, is thwarted by minefields and Russias incessant artillery.

Making a breakthrough is extremely difficult, as Russian forces have fortified the area well by digging trenches  1.5 to 2 meters deep  and heavily mining the fields, roads, and villages.

Ukrainian soldiers anticipate the counteroffensive to continue progress slowly, as a faster advance would mean more losses.

The commanders of platoons and companies, more than anything, fear the price in blood they have to pay for the liberation of more territory  and so speed is the least of their worries.

The battles are challenging and the expectations of the pace it proceeds should be realistic because this is not a movie, top Ukrainian officials have said.

Behind the liberation of each village and Western pessimism about the counteroffensive, are the daily efforts of Ukrainian soldiers who are trying to break the Russian defense  at great cost.

And Ukrainian soldiers on the ground say they would rather progress slowly than suffer a higher casualty rate through an over-hasty advance.

Company commander Bohdan says casualties in his unit have been minimal thanks to these careful tactics, and he is determined to keep it this way.

Anything can happen in a war, but if there are losses, I only blame myself, Bohdan said.

While he has been a commander since the start of the full-scale war, its still as painful as ever to lose a soldier on the battlefield  let alone witness it with his own eyes.

Just recently, one of his squad commanders, 27-year-old Viacheslav, and a fellow soldier were fatally shot during a Russian counterattack while they were clearing the last houses in Staromaiorske  just a day before the village was liberated.

A Ukrainian recon drone was filming the scene, and Bohdan watched it all from a command post about a kilometer away, on the screen of the drones control unit.

When you see everything, but you can't do anything  thats the most terrible, and the most difficult thing. Seeing how you lose people, Bohdan said. I wasnt next to him (Viacheslav) at the time, and thats why I blame myself.

Every meter costs someones life, Bohdan told the Kyiv Independent, shortly after attending Viacheslavs funeral in Kyiv.

Tug of war

The assault teams  such as Bohdans company with the 35th Marines  go in first to liberate a village, followed by medics to evacuate the wounded as soon as possible.

Evacuations, however, are extremely difficult during assault operations, as the wounded need to be carried to waiting infantry vehicles a few kilometers away. Russian forces also target the medical evacuation vehicles, according to Ukrainian soldiers.

Read also: Just hold on: Front-line medics race against time to save wounded soldiers

When liberating a village, the soldiers  usually in small teams of up to 10  have to go house by house, street by street, clearing them of Russian troops: First by throwing grenades, then entering buildings to shoot any remaining Russian soldiers.

According to the Ukrainian soldiers, more than half of the Russian troops deployed in houses in villages flee to other positions after heavy Ukrainian artillery and mortar attacks, likely fearing that their defense wont hold.

Thats why if the artillery works beautifully, the infantry can go there more or less safely and start moving according to their assigned route, Bohdan said.

But not all of the Russians flee. Those who stay behind are ready to defend their position with everything, which leads to close-range skirmishes  as close as five meters  among the houses in a village.

And retaking a Russian position is far from the end of an operation.

As soon as the assault troops capture a Russian position, the main infantry goes in to stabilize it  such as by digging new trenches if it is in a field, and clearing any mines that dont require the attention of sappers.

Holding on to the newly regained position is extremely difficult, according to the Ukrainian infantrymen. Likely possessing exact coordinates of their former positions, Russian forces fire at them with all they have very accurately and try to destroy everything, soldiers with the 35th and 38th Separate Marine Brigade said.

Read also: Endless Russian assaults near Kreminna test Ukraines defenses

Then come Russian infantry assaults to try to take back the positions. The Russian troops, in some cases, do manage to take back the positions. It is almost like a tug of war, with the front line moving back and forth with the battle, Ukrainian soldiers say.

That was the case with Urozhaine, when the Ukrainian General Staff reported Russia repeatedly attempting to retake the village.

Despite the danger of such operations, a 20-year-old assault group leader with the 35th brigade, also named Bohdan, said he is exactly where he wants to be because to destroy the most (Russians) you need to get right up close to them.

Bohdan, who goes by the callsign Bandera, was studying in a military academy in Lviv when the full-scale invasion began, already knows the brutality of the war too well  he himself was almost killed when shrapnel struck close to his heart last year.

Bohdan says he has a rule for himself to never make friends in the army because it would be too difficult if something happens to them  and emotion is distracting in war.

And as a commander, Bohdan knows that he needs to do everything to maximize his soldiers chances of survival  not letting human factors get in the way.

Its really hard to lose a close person, and since I am a commander, I cant allow myself to be emotional, Bohdan said.

A distraction for Russian forces

Many of the soldiers deployed in the area believe that a significant breakthrough in Donetsk Oblast, where Russia has concentrated the most number of troops, is unrealistic, especially at this stage in the war.

Multiple soldiers with the 38th and the 59th Separate Motorized Brigade, both deployed in the region, told to the Kyiv Independent that Ukraines operations in Donetsk Oblast  on the Bakhmut and Velyka Novosilka axes  are possibly distractions from the most important operation, the one in Zaporizhzhia Oblast.

Read also: Inching forward in Bakhmut counteroffensive, Ukraines hardened units look ahead to long, grim war

Ukraine has retaken a handful of villages on the banks of the Mokriy Yaly River on the Velyka Novosilka axis, as well as settlements near Bakhmut. But in Zaporizhzhia Oblast, they appear to be building up for a potential breakthrough.

Meanwhile, the villages that have been liberated in southern Donetsk Oblast hold no strategic importance, but help boost the morale of all Ukrainian soldiers, said Petro, a 47-year-old platoon commander with the 38th brigade.

Petro, who has served in the army since 2014, is serving with one of the newly formed brigades that went through five months of training before participating in the counteroffensive.

From July, his unit launched small assaults to probe Russian defenses in Urozhaine, mixing them with several large-scale attacks  which included tanks, infantry vehicles, and artillery support.

But new brigades  composed of both newly mobilized soldiers and some officers transferred from more experienced units  struggle due to lack of battlefield experience, and have problems with coordination within the unit, many soldiers told the Kyiv Independent.

Petro said that the five months of training was enough to prepare his mobilized soldiers for a variety of tasks, yet some things are possible to pick up only after actual battles.

No one can teach you it (in training), Petro said.

Read also: Its a lottery: How Ukraines assault brigade counterattacks near Bakhmut

______________________________________________________

Note from the author:

Hi, this is Asami Terajima, the author of this article.

Thank you for reading our story. I was very moved, but also heartbroken, to hear the stories of how Ukrainian commanders  some of whom are younger than me  are risking everything to make sure Ukraine proceeds in the high-stakes counteroffensive. The commanders I interviewed for this story were only worried about the well-being of their soldiers  and not about themselves.

To help the Kyiv Independent continue telling stories that may otherwise be untold, please consider becoming our supporter.

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
A Wayne County couple were charged with assault after a child in their care was seriously injured, according to New York State Police.

Terrell Martinez, 24, and his girlfriend Morgan Pentycofe, 29, both of Lyons, were each charged with one count of second-degree assault and second-degree assault on a child less than seven years of age, both felonies, in connection with the Aug. 12 incident at their Canal Street home in Lyons, troopers said. Pentycofe is the child's mother, troopers said.

Martinez is accused of causing numerous injuries to the 1-year-old girl while Pentycofe was present, troopers said.

The girl was taken to Newark Wayne Hospital, where it was alleged that she had fallen out of a crib, according to State Police. She was then taken to Strong Memorial Hospital, where doctors determined that the child had suffered serious injuries to her head and other extremities.

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The child's injuries occurred "while under the direct care and supervision of the mother and her boyfriend," according to State Police.

Martinez and Pentycofe were arraigned in Wayne County. Martinez received pretrial release and Pentycofe was released on her own recognizance. They are expected to further answer the charges at a later date.

State Police are working with Wayne County Child Protective Services and have "created a safety plan that was best for the child," said Trooper Lynnea Crane.

This article originally appeared on Rochester Democrat and Chronicle: Terrell Martinez, Morgan Pentycofe charged after child injured
For nearly two years, we have been in something of an Omicron holding pattern.

A new Omicron subvariant of the COVID virus popped up every few months with a small number of mutations that resulted in subtle changes to the way it spread and infected.

Were just going from iPhone 1 to iPhone 5 to iPhone 8, iPhone 14  Its a variation on a theme, one epidemiologist told the N&O. Its not jumping to an Android.

But a new COVID variant, BA.2.86, has threatened to disrupt that progression.

Several health agencies, including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the World Health Organization, have been monitoring this highly mutated variant because of its potential to evade the immunity most Americans have built up over the last few years.

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In other words, this is not the next iPhone generation.

This is an Android, said Dr. David Montefiori, a Duke epidemiologist.

Heres what you need to know:

Where is the new variant spreading?

As of last week, the variant has been confirmed in several countries and two U.S. states, Virginia and Maryland.

The virus has also been detected in Ohio wastewater, which suggests there are more cases than have been detected with testing in the United States.

There is significantly less COVID testing now than there was during the height of the pandemic, which makes tracking the variant difficult, Montefiori said.

Is it better at evading immunity?

Its too soon to know how this virus will act in a real-world environment.

Because BA.2.86 is so different from variants weve been exposed to, some experts fear it will be better at evading our immune responses, including those made stronger with vaccines.

The number of genetic differences between this variant and Omicron is roughly the same as the difference between the original Omicron variant and Delta. More variants mean a pathogen may be at lower risk of being detected by our defense systems.

Usually, when a new variant emerges, there are just a small number of mutations, Montefiori said. This is a pretty big jump.

Experts are also concerned about where some of the mutations fall on the virus: a part that Montefiori said is a hotspot for evading our immunity.

The good news? Immunity from past infections or vaccination is likely to provide some protection against severe disease from this variant, according to the CDC.

Will BA.2.86 make us sicker?

Montefiori said we dont yet know  there are just too few cases right now.

In a recent report, CDC officials wrote that they have not detected an unusual increase in hospitalizations or emergency department visits in places where the variant has been detected, but cautioned it was too soon to make any definitive statements.

More good news: The mutations are not likely to affect the efficacy of commonly prescribed antiviral treatments, like Paxlovid, Montefiori said.

Will new boosters target the variant?

This October, health care providers will begin offering reformulated COVID boosters, which are designed to target the original COVID strain and XBB  an Omicron subvariant that circulated this summer.

Even though these vaccines arent tailored for BA.2.86, they are still likely to be helpful protecting people from it, Montefiori said.

Thats because vaccines bolster your immune system in several ways.

Even if the vaccine-generated neutralizing antibodies  important for avoiding a COVID infection  arent a perfect weapon the shot will help develop T-cell immunity, which helps prevent severe illness, Montefiori said.

Montefioris lab at Duke is testing how effective BA.2.86 is at circumventing immunity from the updated booster. The results of those experiments are likely to be released in coming weeks, he said.

Get boosted now or wait until October?

This decision is largely based on each individuals personal risk level, Montefiori said.

Someone traveling internationally might want to get the current booster ahead of their trip, for example. Someone who is rarely in crowded public areas might be better off waiting for the fall vaccine, he said.

A good number of North Carolinians have not had the latest vaccine. Just 14% have had at least one dose of the still available bivalent booster released last fall, said a NC Department of Health and Human Services spokesperson.

While the variant is a nice reminder to stay up to date on vaccines, Montefiori said it shouldnt be cause for alarm yet.

We dont know whether this variant is going to really take, he said. Sometimes they pop up and then just disappear.

Teddy Rosenbluth covers science and health care for The News & Observer in a position funded by Duke Health and the Burroughs Wellcome Fund. The N&O maintains full editorial control of the work.

Is North Carolina having a surge in COVID-19 cases? Everything you need to know.

There are new vaccine recommendations for the fall. Heres what you need to know.






Police are looking into an incident where a predominantly Black neighborhood in Montgomery, Alabama, was spray-painted with racist messaging.

A resident walked outside his Dannelly Pines residence on Saturday to find that his property and vehicle were vandalized with racial slurs and swastikas. According to the Montgomery Advertiser, Otis Ramos, a Black man, made the discovery around 4 a.m., and the unknown perpetrator also shattered the window to his kids bedroom.

Someone vandalized multiple homes in a predominately Black neighborhood in Montgomery, Alabama. Police have launched a hate crime investigation. (WSFA/Youtube/Screenshot)

Ramos home was not the only one that got hit, as other people in his community noticed that their property was also damaged.

Related: Minnesota Man Who Burned, Vandalized His Property and Blamed It on BLM Sentenced to More than Two Years In Prison, Ordered to Pay Over $20k In Fines and Restitution

We going through something right now, and not only are we going through something, but a couple of our neighbors are going through something with us in 2023, Ramos told the Advertiser. Its like you wouldnt expect it, but being Black, you kind of understand, OK, well you dont expect it, but you expect it. (At) the end of the day  whats going to be done about it?

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Ramos, who is relatively new to the neighborhood, said he thinks the issue stems from an encounter at a nearby gas station where a man asked him for money, WSFA reported. When Ramos declined because he had no cash on him, he and the man got into a heated verbal dispute.

He said a man who was captured on camera walking in his neighborhood that morning appeared to be the same person from the confrontation, according to the report.

I am enraged by the white supremacist, racist images and words spray painted on personal, private property of Black residents in the Dannelly Pines area of Montgomery, AL. I unequivocally stand against all crimes, acts, words, and displays of hate. 1/2 pic.twitter.com/Ren2Cd5mMb  Phillip Ensler (@EnslerPhillip) August 27, 2023

Montgomery police officers arrived at the scene at around 6:30 a.m. They said theyre investigating the matter as a hate crime.

We ARE looking at the act as a hate crimes violation and will complete a thorough report with all pertinent facts for presentation to our federal partner, a Montgomery police spokesperson told WSFA.

Mayor Steven Reed said local officials are working to locate and hold the perpetrators accountable.

We are aware of this incident, and we will work with the victims and community members to prosecute those responsible for this cowardly act to the fullest extent of the law, he stated, per the outlet.

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Search crews rescued a woman and her dog who were caught in a flood and carried more than 150 feet down Mary Jane Canyon in Utah.

Search crews rescued a woman and her dog who were caught in a flash flood that carried them more than 150 feet down Utahs Mary Jane Canyon Thursday, officials said.

The woman, who was not named, was covered in mud from head to toe when they found her, Grand County Sheriff's Search and Rescue officials said in a statement on social media Sunday.

Rescue officials said the woman, 38, used her phone to send an emergency satellite SOS message after she was swept down the canyon, which is located near the Utah and Colorado border in Grand County, Utah.

The sheriffs office received the message, which had her geographical coordinates, around 7:20 p.m., rescue officials said.

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A team of hikers searched for the woman near the location of the coordinates while a helicopter team searched the area from above. After the two teams couldnt find the woman, the helicopter team flew down the canyon and found her and her dog about 2 miles from the coordinates.

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Woman said she was carried 150 to 200 feet down the canyon

The woman said she heard the flood coming and hiked up to a sand bank above the creek, but the rising water sent her and her dog into the flood waters and carried them 150 to 200 feet down the canyon where she lost her shoe, rescuers said.

She said she received a text message saying her emergency message didn't send, so she hiked down the canyon barefoot with her dog.

Rescuers said they reached her around 9:25 p.m., and she was uninjured.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Woman, dog swept 150 feet down Utahs Mary Jane Canyon in flood
Czechia has opened an investigation of the Raiffeisen Bank International (RBI) over its ongoing business activities in Russia, the Czech Television public broadcaster reported on Aug. 29.

The authorities are responding to a criminal complaint filed by the local Association for the Rights of Citizens and Entrepreneurs, which said that by conducting business in Russia, the RBI is financing Moscow's aggression against Ukraine.

The group pointed out that in 2022, Raiffeisen's Russia-based companies have paid up to $720 million from their profits to the Russian state budget in taxes. According to Czech Television, the bank's gains in the Russian Federation grew by 9% in the first half of 2023.

As Austria's second-largest bank lender, Raiffeisen plays a significant role in Russia's financial system and is one of only two foreign banks classified as "systemically important" by the Russian central bank.

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This underscores the bank's importance to the Russian economy, particularly in the face of extensive Western sanctions. Despite the full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, Raiffeisen has continued to operate in Russia.

On Feb. 18, Reuters reported that the U.S. Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) was investigating Raiffeisen for its activities in Russia. The European Central Bank (ECB) urged Raiffeisen on March 24 to devise an exit strategy for selling or shutting down the group's Russia branch of operations.

However, according to Reuters, the bank and Austrian officials may be delaying the pullback in hopes of normalizing relations with Russia after the end of the war.

The bank responded to the criticism by saying that it is reducing its business activity in the country, minimizing "the RBI Group's cross-border exposure to Russia," and exploring ways of selling or spinning off its Russian branch. It also reminded that it bears responsibility for the integrity of its Russia operations, including more than 9,000 employees in the country.

Read also: David Kirichenko: How Ukraine is the leading testing ground for the viability of crypto

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
FRESNO, Calif. (KSEE/KGPE)  The man who shot a baby in the head after the mother rejected him in 2019 was sentenced Monday, the Fresno County District Attorney announced.

Court records state that in June 2019 a mother was at a family gathering with her 10-month-old, Fayth Percy, near Hammond and Millbrook avenues in central Fresno around 4:00 a.m.

Guilty verdict in attempted murder of 10-month-old baby in Fresno

The mother went inside the house and documents say 23-year-old Marcos Echartea tried to hold her hand. She pulled away, left outside, and told friends about what had happened when Echartea tried to pull her into him and force her to sit on his lap.

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Prosecutors state the mother pulled away again and was followed by Echartea as she went into the house to get her baby so she could leave. She got into the car and left with a male friend only to make a U-turn and park back by the house.

This is when records say Erchartea walked up and fired three rounds into the car, hitting baby Fayth Percys head. The baby was sent to a local hospital in critical condition and has since survived from her injuries.

The DA sentenced Erchartea to 45 years with the possibility of parole for attempted murder, shooting at an occupied motor vehicle, assault with a firearm, assault with a firearm up Deziree Menagh, assault with a firearm upon Travon Alexander, owning or possessing a firearm while subject to a restraining order.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to YourCentralValley.com.
Racing to the hospital for the birth of their first child, Christina and Zachary Pruitt realized they wouldnt make it in time.

The Indiana couple called 911, and Spencer County emergency dispatcher Lara Hancock sprang into action to guide the Pruitts.

It all happened so fast and we tried to make it, but God & her had different plans, Christina Pruitt said in an Aug. 27 Facebook post after the arrival of their daughter, Brynlynn River Grace.

Hancock, who told the Dubois County Free Press she wasnt originally supposed to work the night of the unexpected birth, provided instructions to Zachary Pruitt to help his wife in labor.

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The dispatcher told WEVV she was nervous as she helped the couple  but also excited and just full of a lot of emotions.

I could hear her, of course, having labor pains in the background, Hancock told the Free Press. I asked him to pull over, and when the father was able to check the mother, he saw that the baby was coming.

Three minutes after the call was made, Brynlynn was born along the side of the road. Christina Pruitt said her husband caught their baby in his arms.

A deputy arrived to help provide additional support and the baby and mother were taken to a hospital for treatment, according to the sheriff.

Hancock described in a Facebook post a sense of peace, love and joy knowing the mother and baby were OK. She also praised the Pruitts, who she said did the work.

Now Hancock has a new title  Auntie Lara  as the couple invited her to come meet the baby, WEVV reported.

As a dispatcher, we dont always know what happens afterwards, she told the station. So, knowing that I get to, its a true blessing.

Hancock said Tuesday she is grateful to be a part of the Pruitts story. She recently had the opportunity to hold Brynlynn and meet the new parents.

I became a dispatcher almost 2 years ago to help people in the community. A community I hold dear to my heart. Hancock said on Facebook. I like that at the end of my shift, I know I may have made a difference to someone who could have been having the worst day of their lives and that all of my officers/deputies went home safe to their families!

Spencer County is in southern Indiana, about 70 miles southeast of Louisville.

Baby born just in time to share birthday with both parents. The best birthday present
Hawaii energy firm rejects lawsuit from Maui County over devastating wildfires

Xinhua) 10:03, August 29, 2023

LOS ANGELES, Aug. 28 (Xinhua) -- The top energy firm Hawaiian Electric Company in the U.S. state of Hawaii on Sunday night pushed back against a lawsuit filed by Maui County over the devastating wildfires that have claimed at least 115 lives on Maui island.

"We were surprised and disappointed that the County of Maui rushed to court even before completing its own investigation," said Shelee Kimura, president and CEO of Hawaiian Electric, in a statement, adding that the company believes "the complaint is factually and legally irresponsible."

Maui County filed a lawsuit on Thursday against Hawaiian Electric Company. The lawsuit alleges the company, a for-profit, investor-owned utility serving 95 percent of the Hawaii customer base, caused civil damages "to the County's public property and resources caused by recent Maui fires, including fires in Lahaina and in Kula."

The wildfires in Maui are the deadliest in the United States in more than a century, and the worst natural disaster in Hawaii's history.

The deadly wildfires have scorched much of the historic town of Lahaina, a popular tourist spot on Maui and once the capital of the Kingdom of Hawaii. More than 2,200 buildings have been destroyed and another 500 damaged by the blaze, at an estimated cost of nearly 6 billion U.S. dollars.

In the statement, Hawaiian Electric Company said that "several important facts are clear about the events on Aug. 8."

The company admitted that a fire at 6:30 a.m. local time appears to have been caused by power lines that fell in high winds, but the Maui County Fire Department responded to this fire, reported it was "100% contained," left the scene and later declared it had been "extinguished."

"At about 3 p.m., a time when all of Hawaiian Electric's power lines in West Maui had been de-energized for more than six hours, a second fire began in the same area," said the company, noting that "the cause of the devastating afternoon fire has not been determined."

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
The aftermath of the collapsed staircase at the Metra Electric stop at University Park. (Vivian Covington)

Half the staircase leading pedestrians to the Metra Electric train tracks at the University Park stop caved in last week, injuring one and temporarily making access to the commuter rail more difficult.

The person who was injured was treated at the scene for lacerations. It was a minor injury, Metra spokesperson Michael Gillis said Monday. They werent admitted to the hospital.

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Metra announced Wednesday the stairway at the station was out service and customers had to use the ramp. Gillis said Metra does not have a time frame for when the staircase will be fully operational again.

Wednesdays incident comes after years of local leaders calling on Metra to improve the stops conditions. Because the University Park stop is the end of the line for the Metra Electric commuter rail, it therefore attracts a wider reach of commuters from points further south than a typical rail station, according to the 2022 Transit Oriented Development Plan.

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Stairs at the University Park Metra Electric station collapsed Aug. 23, 2023. (Vivian Covington)

The 2022 plan outlines a far-reaching goal to build homes and commercial centers around this stop, taking advantage of the opportunity being the end of the line presents. However, as ridership has decreased in recent years, some are pointing at the stop itself and demanding overdue upgrades.

When I was the mayor  I had called them out because I was a little disgusted about the condition the Metra station was in, said former University Park Mayor Vivian Covington, 73. Its in bad condition (and) it smells.

Covington said in 2017, Metra agreed to begin station upgrades, but Wednesdays stair cave in serves as a reminder of the deteriorating condition of the stop.

They talked about it, they toured it, she said. So they agreed that we needed an upgrade and they said that they would get it done.

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University Park Mayor Joseph Roudez could not be reached for comment Monday. Elizabeth Scott, the village manager, agreed this most recent event reiterates the demand for an upgrade.

This definitely highlights the need for funding to get these fixed, she said.

Scott also said the village only owns the parking lots.

We deal with the maintenance of the parking lots, she said. The actual stairs that lead up to the actual platform and all that, Metra maintains that.

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In a summer newsletter, the mayors office and the Village Board pulled together a list of funding the town has recently received. In it, they mark the Metra Transit Project Grant worth $34.9 million. The newsletter says this money was given out in 2022, but it is unclear how much of this money is specifically for upgrading the University Park station.

Thats going to be coming down the pipeline, Scott said. They are going to be starting phase one engineering in the next couple years. But, you know, these are all long-term plans.

Chicago Tribunes Sarah Freishtat contributed
Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, shown addressing lawmakers after articles of impeachment against Ken Paxton were presented to the Texas Senate on May 29, will have retired Justice Lana Myers counsel him during the impeachment trial.

Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick announced he will lean on the legal expertise of retired Justice Lana Myers as he presides over the upcoming impeachment trial of suspended Attorney General Ken Paxton .

Myers, who retired as a Texas 5th Court of Appeals justice at the end of 2022, will take on the role of assisting Patrick throughout the trial as he rules on motions and presides over the proceeding, which is expected to last two to three weeks.

Patrick had announced earlier this month that retired Justice Marc Brown would counsel him during the trial, but Brown later rejected the position in light of a political contribution he and his wife made to one of Paxton's GOP primary challengers in 2021.

Today, pursuant to the rules of impeachment adopted by the members of the Senate, I am pleased to appoint Justice Lana Myers to assist me during the upcoming impeachment trial which starts on Sept. 5," Patrick said in a brief statement Monday.

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In 2009, former Gov. Rick Perry appointed Myers to serve in Place 4 on the 5th Court of Appeals. She then won reelection in 2010 and ran unopposed in 2016.

Prior to her appointment to the appeals court  which serves Dallas, Collin, Grayson, Hunt, Rockwall and Kaufman Counties  Myers led the Dallas County state 203rd District Court beginning in 1995. Myers previously worked in the Dallas County district attorney's office as an assistant district attorney starting in 1982, the year after she graduated with a law degree from Baylor University.

More: Will $3M from pro-Paxton group influence Dan Patricks impeachment handling? He wont say.

"Justice Myers is an extremely well-qualified candidate with courtroom experience as an attorney and a judge, Patrick said.

In a case that gained national attention, Myers in 2021 was on the three-judge panel that heard an appeal by Amber Guyger, a former Dallas police officer convicted of murder in the 2018 killing of Botham Jean. In that case, Guyger went home and mistook Jean's apartment for hers and opened fire, killing the 26-year-old accountant. Myers, and the appeals court, sided with prosecutors to uphold the conviction.

Sen. Brian Birdwell, R-Granbury, right, who led the committee to create the rules for the impeachment trial of suspended Attorney General Ken Paxton, talks to Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick in the Senate chamber in June.

Myers has twice, in 2010 and 2015, donated to the Republican Party of Collin County, where Paxton and his wife, state Sen. Angela Paxton, R-McKinney, reside.

Rep. Jeff Leach, R-Plano, a member of the Texas House team prosecuting Paxton's impeachment, also resides in Collin County.

Political contributions have continued to be scrutinized in the lead up to Ken Paxton's trial, especially after Patrick accepted $3 million from a pro-Paxton PAC, as well as Brown declining to assist Patrick with the trial since he had previously donated to one of Paxton's election opponents.

At the outset of the Senate trial, the impeachment court will take up and decide a bevy of motions from the Paxton's defense team. Most of those motions will deal with whether to dismiss Paxton's articles of impeachment, which will require a majority vote of the senators who will sit as jurors.

More: New complaint seeks to stop AG Ken Paxton from practicing law in Texas

On Saturday, in response to rumors alleging that Paxton was considering resigning from office ahead of the trial's start, Paxton reiterated on social media that he has no intention of stepping down.

"Wrong! I will never stop fighting for the people of Texas and defending our conservative values," Paxton said on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter.

Rumors also circulated that placed Patrick in the middle of pretrial conversations with Paxton.

Patrick vehemently denied those rumblings, calling the rumors "outrageous and irresponsible" and denied that any such conversation took place.

"This is total false reporting," Patrick said, in response to Scott Braddock, editor of the Quorum Report, a Capitol insider publication. "There are no 'back-channel' conversations with any party to the proceedings."

Patrick, at his discretion and with Myers' assistance, will have the authority to rule on all motions not tied to throwing out an impeachment charge.

That includes a motion from Paxton's team that seeks to disqualify three Democratic senators  Sens. Jose Menendez, Roland Gutierrez and Nathan Johnson  from serving as jurors based on public comments by them that Paxtons lawyers say show bias against the suspended attorney general.

Statesman reporter Ryan Autullo contributed to this report

This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: Texas impeachment: Dan Patrick appoints legal counsel for trial
A proposed deal to offer discounted electricity rates to a Chinese company looking to build the states largest cryptocurrency mine in Eastern Kentucky was denied by a commission of state regulators Monday.

A year ago, Kentucky Power, the utility company which serves nearly 165,000 people in 20 Eastern Kentucky counties, reached a deal to lease 55 acres of land adjacent to a gas power plant in Lawrence County to Ebon, a Chinese crypto company. The contract for the deal laid out potentially discounted electricity rates for Ebon.

Ebon planned to invest nearly $250 million to build a crypto mining and data center facility next to the Big Sandy Generating Station in Louisa. The facility would have the capacity to use 250 megawatts of power, which critics said was enough to power 25,000 homes. The deal required approval by the Kentucky Public Service Commission (PSC), a state commission which regulates utilities.

The PSC denied the deal in an order Monday, citing concerns that Kentucky Power lacked the energy supply needed to power the crypto mining facility without possible risks to its other customers.

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Through case filings, Kentucky Power told the PSC that it planned to buy the power capacity needed for the Ebon facility through a regional electricity market.

Buying the power, the PSC contended in its order, would leave Kentucky Powers customers with higher bills should the price of that energy increase.

Its unclear exactly what Mondays denial means for Ebon. In a letter sent from Ebon to Kentucky Power in March, the company said it cannot and will not develop the facility without the special contract the companies negotiated.

Kentucky Power is reviewing the PSCs order, said Sarah Nusbaum, a spokesperson for the utility, in an emailed statement.

We believe economic development is imperative to improving the future of eastern Kentucky, Nusbaum said. Moving forward, we will continue to work diligently in this area while providing safe and reliable power to our customers.

The crypto mining facility in Lawrence County has long been opposed by detractors  including multiple environmental groups, utility rate watchdogs and the state Attorney Generals office  all of which contended the facility would raise electricity rates locally.

Hardworking people shouldnt have to pay higher utility bills so that a cryptocurrency company can get millions in subsidies they dont deserve, Thom Cmar, an Earthjustice attorney who helped multiple groups coordinate their opposition to the proposal, said in a provided statement.

The PSCs denial was a blow to Kentucky Power, which had maintained that the Ebon facility would lower customer bills and be a boost to local economic development. Ebon planned to create 50 to 100 jobs, case filings showed.

Kentucky Power customers already face some of the highest bills in the state and the utility is in the process of seeking a 18.3% price increase for its residential customers next year. As population numbers in Eastern Kentucky have declined, the utility has lost customers  over 10,000 since 2008, the company told the PSC in a separate case. Bills for existing customers have gone up as the company has had to rely on fewer customers to cover the fixed costs of generating power.

The decision in the Ebon case comes as the PSC weighs multiple crypto mining-related contracts throughout the state. Kentucky Power is still awaiting a PSC decision on another deal to provide power to a significantly smaller mine in Pike County.

The Public Service Commission did the right thing for Kentucky Power customers, Cmar said. We hope the commission will reject the wasteful subsidies in the other case they are weighing now.

In early August, the PSC approved a deal that allowed Louisville Gas and Electric and Kentucky Utilities to offer economic development incentives to a Western Kentucky crypto mining operation owned by Alliance Resource Partners, the coal company headed by billionaire philanthropist Joe Craft. That 13 megawatt facility is also significantly smaller than the planned Ebon facility in Lawrence County.

In recent years, mines have found a home in Kentucky, in part because the state legislature passed bills creating tax breaks meant to attract cryptocurrency mining operations. The U.S. has become a global leader in crypto mining ever since China began taking steps to abolish the power-thirsty practice within its borders in 2021.

Companies have scoured the country in search of locations with cheap land and low industrial power costs to set up rows and rows of humming, specialized computers. Those computers mine cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, which Tuesday morning was valued at over $27,000 per coin.
Written closing arguments are due this week in the court trial of a man who stands accused of shooting to death three people and wounding two others in a duplex on St. Pauls East Side nearly one year ago.

Antonio Wrights trial began Aug. 22 before Ramsey County District Judge Kelly Olmstead, who will decide the case on the issues of guilt and whether facts would support an aggravated sentence. Wright, 42, of Minneapolis, waived his right to a jury trial.

Prosecutors say Wright was the masked intruder who repeatedly fired a Glock handgun at the victims during a violent rampage Sept. 4 at 951 Case Ave. in the Payne-Phalen neighborhood. Killed were Angelica Gonzales, 33, Cory Freeman, 42, and Maisha Spaulding, 44.

The state and defense rested their cases on Monday, when Wright also waived his right to testify. Wrights decision came after Olmstead ruled that his testimony could include questioning by the prosecution about a shooting two days before the murders.

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In that case, the charges allege that Wright shot and wounded a man in St. Paul because he thought he had snitched on him after he heard Wright discussing a 2017 murder.

Last week, Wrights attorney, Joe Friedberg, asked Olmstead to acquit his client, noting the only two witnesses at the Case Avenue murder scene  Stephen Anderson and Calvin Steward  both testified that the shooter had dreadlocks and was not Wright. Friedberg said evidence shows 100 percent that Wright has never had dreadlocks.

At this point, there is no sworn evidence in this case that the assailant that day was Mr. Wright, Friedberg said.

Olmstead denied Friedbergs motion for acquittal, saying she is bound to view the evidence, however slim it stands, in the light most favorable to the state at this juncture.

Changed story

Andersons court testimony was a backtrack of what he had told police. According to the charges, Anderson had told investigators that the shooter was Antonio, who goes by the nicknames Figg and D.

Anderson had told investigators he greeted Figg at the duplex by saying, Whats up, D? Figg pulled the mask further over his nose and said, Im not D. Anderson also picked Wright out of a police photo lineup as the shooter.

Prosecutors argued that it was Wright, or Figg, who then raised a tan Glock handgun and started firing, hitting Gonzales, Freeman and Spaulding in the head. He then shot Anderson and a 44-year-old woman, who also survived, several times, prosecutors said.

Investigators analyzed records from Wrights cellphone, which showed it was last used the day before the murders, prosecutors said. It remained powered off until Sept. 5, when it communicated with a cellphone tower in Chicago. Wright was arrested with the phone Sept. 7 in Chicago.

In Chicago that night

Mondays brief testimony revolved around how long it takes to drive from St. Paul to Chicago.

A video shown in court captured Wright walking into his mothers apartment building in Chicago just before 10 p.m. the day of the murders.

Officers were sent to the Case Avenue home around 4:30 p.m., according to the criminal complaint.

St. Paul homicide investigator Sgt. Mark Redding testified that he made the trip from St. Paul to Chicago in an unmarked police SUV to interview Wright on Sept. 8 and again a week later to review the apartment building video. He said both trips took approximately 5 hours while driving 70 to 78 mph.

Olmstead ordered the prosecution to submit written closing arguments on Wednesday and the defense to do so on Friday. The prosecution was given until Sept. 5 to file a rebuttal, while the defense must give its intent to file a possible second argument, or surrebuttal, the following day.

Once closing arguments are filed, Olsmtead said she will take the case under advisement for seven days before making a verdict.

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A Lithonia woman accused of shooting and killing the father of one of her children has been convicted by a jury in DeKalb County.

According to a release from the DeKalb County District Attorneys office, jurors returned guilty verdicts Friday against Quaneesha Nicole Johnson, 30, on charges of voluntary manslaughter, two counts of aggravated assault-family violence, two counts of cruelty to children in the third degree, and possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony.

On November 26, 2022, Johnson had gone out clubbing with her friends and left her three children with Demonte Smith, 29, the father of her youngest child.

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Smith expected Johnson to return home at 6 a.m. and when she did not return, he called her several times. The release detailed that Smith was worried because Johnson had called him earlier that night and said she and her friends got into a fight with other people in the club.

Smith called some members of Johnsons family, who also became worried because her phone was off.

They all called local hospitals and jails looking for her.

The DAs release stated that around 9 a.m., Johnson turned her phone back on and saw text messages from Smith. She called her family members, who conference-called Smith into the conversation. Smith was angry and threatened to hit her when she got home.

According to the investigation, Johnson called 911 to ask for a police escort to her home in Lithonia on Nov. 27, 2022.

When she returned to the home about two hours later, one of the DeKalb County police officers who responded told her to put her gun in her car.

The release from the district attorney stated that Johnson told the officer there were no other weapons in the house. Police say Smith came outside and argued with Johnson in front of the officers. The officers tried to resolve their dispute, but say Johnson continued to talk over them and was combative with them.

The officers sent Johnson and Smith inside the house to calm down.

The release details the moment when Johnson asked officers about self-defense.

As she walked inside, Johnson asked the officers what would happen if she shot Smith in self-defense and told them that she had already looked up the self-defense law.

Officers remained at the home and planned to give the couple a few minutes to calm down.

Before that could happen, Johnson went back outside, grabbed a metal tire iron and her gun from her car, and went back inside the house.

She told one of her children to call 911 and say that Smith had hit her.

Johnson then hit Smith in the head with the tire iron and then shot him.

According to details from the DA press release, the gunshot can be heard on the 911 call, as well as Johnson repeatedly saying bye to Smith.

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Smith went outside and told the officers, She hit me in the head with a metal thing and then shot me. Hurry before I die.

Smith then collapsed.

Johnson was arrested by the officers.

During an interview at police headquarters, she admitted Smith did not hit her that day.

The DA said investigators later learned Smith had requested a rideshare to leave the house, but was killed just minutes before it arrived.

The state requested that Johnson be sentenced to 25 years in prison and five on probation.

DeKalb County Superior Court Judge Shondeana Morris sentenced Johnson to 10 years in confinement, split between five years in prison and five more under house arrest with an additional 10 years on probation.

According to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, Johnsons attorney, Michael Sterling, said his client called 911 three times that day after receiving threatening messages from Smith, and that she flagged down a police escort after officers didnt arrive for two hours.

In court, the judge said she believed on the day of the incident, Johnson took all of the necessary steps to ensure her safety.

Miss Johnson, I believe that you took all of the necessary steps to ensure your safety after Mr. Smith had threatened to inflict bodily harm upon you, said Judge Morris.

She continued on saying it didnt matter how long Johnson stayed out or who her kids were left with, it did not cause for threats of bodily harm.

That does not constitute that somebody would threaten you with serious bodily injury, she said. You called the alarm company, you called local law enforcement not once, not twice, but three times.

Smith reportedly had a history of domestic abuse.

According to the AJC, Sterling said Smith was previously prosecuted by the attorneys office for aggravated stalking, battery and domestic violence.

The deceased had a history of abuse and had threatened to beat and kill other women before, Sterling said.

Johnsons attorney, Michael Sterling, told the AJC that the jury rejected the states case that Johnson acted intentionally and with malice, and that the court is aware of critical issues that make the likelihood of motion for new trial and appeal cognizable.

The state requested that Johnson be taken into custody immediately upon being found guilty, but she will not yet begin her sentence because the judge granted her an appeal bond over the states objection.

He added, Accordingly, the court permitted Ms. Johnson to remain out on bond while the appeal is pending. Unfortunately, the State never saw Ms. Johnson as a victim of domestic violence and failed to protect her even though she sought police protection time and time again. Our system has to do better to avoid tragedies like this in the future.

Judge Morris ordered Johnson to be placed on house arrest while her attorney appeals her conviction.

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IN OTHER NEWS:
As Hurricane Idalia inches toward Floridas west coast, several airports around the state have shut down  and others are dealing with widespread delays and cancellations. That could mean more traffic at South Florida airports.

READ MORE: Idalia is expected to hit as a Category 3 hurricane. When will Florida airports close?

As of 7 p.m. Tuesday, Miami International Airport has 178 delays and 21 cancellations, according to Flight Aware data. Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport has 99 delays and 16 cancellations.

Flight impacts above are likely due to several factors including inclement weather over parts of the U.S., airline, or federal airspace operational decisions, among other issues, FLL spokesperson Paris Tyburski told the Miami Herald.

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American Airlines also began providing customers with guidance on what to do if their flights are canceled or delayed due to the storm.

American has issued a travel alert for 12 airports in Florida, Georgia and South Carolina, allowing customers whose travel plans are affected by Hurricane Idalia to rebook without change fees, the airline said in a statement.

Heres what to know as South Florida airports may face delays due to large influxes of travelers from across the state.

How can I check my flights status?

Miami International Airport has two online trackers you can use.

One of the flight trackers shows a list of all expected arrivals and departures with options to use a drop-down menu to narrow results. It displays the carrier, flight number and where the plane is going to or coming from. It also gives real-time updates on the flights arrival or departure status, which concourse the terminal is in and the location of baggage claim.

The other online tool lets you track by flight or route. If you know the carrier, the date and the flight number, this tool might be easier to use because it will only show information for your flight. MIA also has an app available on Apples App Store and Androids Google Play Store.

FLLs flight tracker works by flight or route. Youll need to know the date, along with the airline carrier and flight number or the departure and arrival airport. The tool also gives people the option to see a list of all expected arrivals and departures and details on the flights terminal and baggage claim, too.

You can also check your flight status with the airline directly, which might be easier to do through the airlines app. But you can also check via the airlines website.

Check flight status with airline directly

Another way to check your flight status is with the airline directly. For some, this might be easier to do, especially if youve downloaded the airlines app. You can also use the airlines website.

Heres where to go for some of the popular airlines in South Florida:

 American Airlines or download the app from the App store for Apple users or the Google Play store for Android users.

 Delta or download the app from the App store for Apple users or the Google Play store for Android users.

 United Airlines or download the app from the App store for Apple users or the Google Play store for Android users.

 Southwest Airlines or download the app from the App store for Apple users or the Google Play store for Android users.

 JetBlue or download the app from the App store for Apple users or the Google Play store for Android users.

 Frontier Airlines or download the app from the App store for Apple users or the Google Play store for Android users.

 Spirit Airlines or download the app from the App store for Apple users or the Google Play store for Android users.
Long-term exposure to one of the most prevalent types of air pollution may increase the risk of developing dementia, a debilitating neurological disease associated with memory loss and reduced cognitive function, according to a new study.

Researchers at the University of Michigan have concluded that people living with higher levels of fine particulate matter, or PM2.5, could face a greater risk of being stricken with dementia, according to a study published recently in the Journal of the American Medical Assn.

Scientists monitored the cognitive health of nearly 28,000 people aged 50 or older living across the United States between 1998 and 2016. Fifteen percent of this group developed dementia, and those who lived in areas with more PM2.5 were more likely to succumb to the neurodegenerative illness.

Based on those results, the study estimates fine particulate pollution may be responsible for 188,000 dementia diagnoses each year in the United States. And evidence suggests the health risk may vary with the type of PM2.5  a catchall term for suspended material about 30 times smaller than the width of a human hair.

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Read more: Finding clean air in Los Angeles? It's an almost unsolvable puzzle

Scientists examined exposure to nine different types of particulate ranging from traffic to coal combustion. Exposure to pollution from wildfires and agricultural dust had the strongest ties to the prevalence of dementia, according to Boya Zhang, lead author and research fellow at the University of Michigan.

"The main reason for this distinction may be due to the different physical or chemical characteristics of the PM2.5 from these different sources. All particles are harmful to you, but wildfires and agriculture [dust] may be more harmful to your cognitive health."

As people live longer and the global population continues to trend older, the findings underscore the importance of limiting exposure to air pollution to cognitive health. But the study also arrives amid a particularly devastating Canadian wildfire season when smoke and soot drifted across North America and engulfed such cities as Chicago and Detroit, highlighting how these intensifying natural disasters can imperil millions of people thousands of miles away.

The research is also concerning for Californians, who have seen their state ravaged by record-setting wildfires and drought that turned thousands of acres of farmland into dust bowls.

The study also serves as a reminder of the sweeping effects air pollution can have on human health. Particulate pollution has already been found to contribute to lung disease, heart attacks, strokes, low birth weight and diabetes.

And, earlier this month, a new study suggested a connection between PM2.5 exposure and the prevalence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, also known as superbugs. Exposure to PM2.5 can make cell membranes more permeable, making it easier for bacteria to share DNA that would give them immunity to certain antibiotics, according to lead author Hong Chen, of Zhejiang University in China.

The theory that this could accelerate the larger problem of antibiotic resistance has been met with some skepticism, however.

"Just because particulate matter is perhaps increasing the permeability of the cell membrane, that does not necessarily mean that transfer of these antibiotic-resistant genes is going to happen," said Adam Smith, a USC professor who discovered bacteria in L.A. County wastewater that were resistant to colistin, a last-resort antibiotic.

But the University of Michigan study bolsters a growing body of research linking air pollution to neurological illnesses. In a 2022 study examining the cognitive health of women between 74 and 92 years old, USC researchers found the risk of dementia decreased by 14% in areas with the greatest PM2.5 reductions. In a 2020 study, researchers at UC Davis found evidence that exposure to traffic-related air pollution altered the brain development of rats.

Read more: Plastic-free Barbie was a hoax, but pollution from the iconic doll is real

Whether cognitive or cardiovascular, the wide-ranging health effects of PM2.5 have been attributed to oxidative stress  the physical toll from the body's natural response to the entry of foreign objects, which can lead to inflammation.

The severity of oxidative stress depends on the type of PM2.5 a person is exposed to. In the Michigan study, scientists modeled PM2.5 pollution from traffic, agriculture, windblown dust, coal-fired power plants and various industrial emissions, among other sources.

Except for windblown dust, all other sources were correlated with higher dementia prevalence. Surprisingly, wildfires and farm dust had stronger ties to dementia prevalence than traffic pollution and coal combustion.

"This could be partially explained due to the pesticides or herbicides in agriculture, because some ingredients could be neurotoxic," said Zhang, the Michigan researcher. "For wildfires, we only think about trees or grasslands burning. But it burns everything in their path, including gas stations and houses, emitting some really toxic components."

This could spell trouble for residents of the San Joaquin Valley, California's agricultural hub, which experiences the nation's highest levels of PM2.5 annually from livestock manure and dust. It also emphasizes the need for California residents to protect themselves from wildfires.

"When you inhale any sort of particle, you're body is going to have some sort of immune response," said Suzanne Paulson, a UCLA professor of atmospheric and oceanic sciences. "But composition matters because if you're near the coast, you might be breathing sea salt, which is not that bad for your body to deal with.

"When you have wildfire smoke, you have these big complicated organic molecules that interact with metals very strongly and change their chemistry sometimes ... So that's why we think that things like wildfire smoke are particularly problematic."

Much of PM2.5 in Southern California is the result of traffic on the region's notoriously congested roads. But the composition of this pollution has recently changed, according to Paulson.

Paulson examined PM2.5 across more than 50 locations in Greater Los Angeles. Though vehicle exhaust was once the primary source of particulate pollution in the region, metal particles from brake and tire wear are now a significant and growing source of PM2.5, Paulson said.

It has surpassed tailpipe emissions in recent years, as evidenced by higher copper and iron concentrations. While this trend shows how much cleaner vehicle engines have become, it also underscores an emerging concern.

Read more: Cooking with a gas stove may be as bad as breathing secondhand cigarette smoke, study finds

As a growing number of heavy electric vehicles hit the road, there could be an increase in metal particles from eroding brakes and tires  and these substances are more toxic than vehicle exhaust.

"The heavier vehicles are going to produce more tire wear for sure," Paulson said. "A lot of [EVs] have regenerative braking, which probably mitigates some emissions, but we're not entirely sure if it goes far enough."

Paulson's research has already concluded that disadvantaged communities endure the highest concentrations and most toxic types of PM2.5.

The authors of the Michigan study are among a growing chorus of scientists who say new research demonstrates the health benefits of reducing the annual PM2.5 standard. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has proposed a rule lowering the federal limit for PM2.5 from 12 micrograms per cubic meter, to 9.

The EPA's Clean Air Scientific Advisory Committee has recommended the agency lower it to 8.

Nationally, PM2.5 has been significantly reduced over the past two decades. But some emissions, like those from wildfires, are disrupting this progress.

"Global aging and the problem of dementia is becoming more and more serious worldwide," Zhang said. "We've known for a long time that air pollution is a risk factor for respiratory and cardiovascular disease. But we're only just beginning to understand more about the impact on dementia."

Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Rep. Andy Kim (D-N.J.) announced Tuesday that he has reintroduced legislation that would limit the ability of major defense contractors and foreign governments to hire former Defense Department officials and influence the Pentagon as lobbyists.

The Department of Defense Ethics and Anti-Corruption Act would impose a four-year ban on defense contractors hiring senior Pentagon officials and enact a similar ban on former Defense Department employees who managed their contracts.

It would also extend the prohibition of former military generals lobbying the Defense Department; require defense contractors to submit public, annual reports on the hiring of former senior department officials; and ban senior government officials from owning stock in major defense contractors that receive more than $100 million in revenue from the Pentagon.

Kim, the ranking member on the House Armed Services Committees Military Personnel subcommittee, said the Pentagon needs to prevent conflicts of interest, root out corruption, waste, and fraud so officials can focus on the mission in front of them.

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This bill is meant to reinforce those values and make sure that Americans know our defense force has their backs, he said in a statement released Tuesday.

The Defense Department Ethics and Anti-Corruption Act is companion legislation to a bill reintroduced by Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) in June.

It undoubtedly faces an uphill battle in Congress, where extensive legislation seeking to crack down on defense contractor influence has rarely seen the light of day.

Warren, who has tried for years to pass similar legislation with no success, said national security is put at risk when former senior military officials sell their credentials to the highest bidder.

Im renewing the push with Representative Kim to pass legislation that will root out corruption, rein in foreign influence, and ensure greater transparency over defense contractors and their interactions with [the Defense Department], she said in a statement earlier this year.

Warren published a report in April that found about 672 instances of former government officials or military officials who went to work for contractors since 2021, most of whom became lobbyists. Boeing, Raytheon and General Electric hired the most, according to Warrens report.

The proposed bill also seeks to ensure transparency on the issue by forcing contractors to submit detailed reports of their lobbying activities and requiring the Defense Department secretary to more routinely publish copies of unclassified Pentagon contracts.

In a similar vein, the legislation would limit the influence of foreign interests on the Pentagon, addressing concerns about retired military officials taking jobs abroad.

The Washington Post published an investigation last year that found more than 500 veterans, including generals and admirals, were hired for lucrative jobs around the world since 2015, particularly in Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and other Persian Gulf states.

The bill from Kim would prohibit senior national security officials or intelligence government personnel from working on behalf of foreign governments or private firms connected to foreign governments.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Democrats in the Oklahoma Legislature are urging the formation of a special bipartisan committee to investigate possible impeachment charges against state schools Superintendent Ryan Walters.

Both senators and members of the House said recent bomb threats at Tulsa schools had been linked to Walters' rhetoric about the city's school district.

"Oklahomans deserve a public school system where parents, students and teachers feel safe ... and the needs of our students are prioritized over dangerous political rhetoric," said Rep. Trish Ranson, D-Stillwater, chair of the House Democratic Caucus, in a statement Tuesday.

Her comment was endorsed by Senate Democratic Leader Kay Floyd, D-Oklahoma City.

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In response, Walters' office issued a statement saying, "These liberal Democrats will stop at nothing to defend their union bosses and push a radical agenda on our kids."

Oklahoma state schools Superintendent Ryan Walters speaks this month during an Oklahoma State Board of Education meeting.

"In seeking to remove a popularly elected constitutional officer, they represent a direct threat to our democracy. Its shameful, and Oklahomans wont be fooled," the statement said. "Superintendent Walters is fighting to ensure Oklahoma parents have a place at the table and Oklahoma kids have a brighter future."

Ranson and House Democratic Leader Cyndi Munson, D-Oklahoma City, said they were calling on House Speaker Charles McCall, R-Atoka, to form the impeachment investigation committee.

McCall said, "Leader Munson did not discuss the issue of impeachment with me before holding a press conference. Impeachment is not something that should be taken lightly, and the call by a group of House Democrats seems to be more of a ready, fire, aim approach."

More: Officials call for impeachment, 'end of rhetoric,' as Ryan Walters calls for investigation

The House speaker had issued a statement Friday saying that elected leaders shouldn't "be adding fuel to the fires of controversy but should instead be focusing on improving educational outcomes. He called for an end to "rhetoric" and "political activism surrounding education."

Rep. Mickey Dollens, D-Oklahoma City, earlier had called for a probe into the impeachment of Walters.

How a possible impeachment of Ryan Walters would work, according to Oklahoma law

McCall's office said Article VIII of the Oklahoma Constitution calls for the House to initiate any impeachment proceedings against elected officials. The process is similar to the one in the U.S. Constitution recently followed in the case of former President Donald J. Trump. If an impeachment resolution is approved by the House, it goes to the Senate, "and no person shall be convicted without the concurrence of two-thirds of the Senators present."

Oklahoma's constitution establishes five "grounds" for impeachment: "willful neglect of duty, corruption in office, habitual drunkenness, incompetency, or any offense involving moral turpitude committed while in office."

Rep. Melissa Provenzano, D-Tulsa, said Walters' rhetoric "up until now, has been designed to distract and sow chaos. But now, elementary schools in the Tulsa area have received bomb threats as a result of disinformation shared by him. Our children deserve to be safe. The willful neglect of that duty ... cannot and will not be overlooked."

The Tulsa school district has been a frequent Walters target since his election in 2022.

More: Why is Tulsa on Oklahoma schools Superintendent Ryan Walters mind?

His running feud with Tulsa Public Schools Superintendent Deborah Gist led earlier this month to Gist's resignation and the imposition of a monthly progress report from the district to the State Board of Education before Tulsa's accreditation was approved.

This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Democratic Oklahoma legislators call to impeach Ryan Walters
Action movies are expressions of their stars preferred personas: Tom Cruise, the fanatical daredevil savior; Keanu Reeves, the cool, sleek agent of death; and Liam Neeson, the gruff, paternalistic avenger. The same holds true for Denzel Washington, who in The Equalizer gets to be a wise, caring mentor, a lone warrior, and a virtuous vigilante. Hes also the baddest man on the planet, refusing to turn the other cheek to injustice and righting wrongs with extreme prejudice. Loosely reimagining the 80s TV series of the same name, the Equalizer films are vehicles designed to spotlight everything audiences love about Washington, from his graceful style and heartfelt empathy to his nonchalant charm and ferocious intensity.

All those traits remain in full effect in The Equalizer 3 (in theaters Sept. 1), the third and supposedly final chapter in a serviceable trilogy defined by its meat-and-potatoes carnage and its headliners exceptional charisma. Director Antoine Fuquas latest relocates Washingtons Robert McCalla former Marine who most assume is deadfrom Boston to Italy, where hes introduced having already laid waste to a veritable army of bodyguards at a gated vineyard estate.

When the owner of that residence arrives, hes naturally shaken by the bloody scene, and thats before he discovers Robert sipping wine in a basement, totally confident and calm despite the two guns pointed at his head. Per his countdown-via-stopwatch modus operandi, Robert gives his adversaries nine seconds to surrender. When they dont comply, he demonstrates his imposing skills. Upon leaving, though, he suffers a careless injury and barely makes it back to the mainland, where hes fortuitously discovered by a cop named Gio (Eugenio Mastrandrea) and taken to a local village doctor named Enzo (Remo Girone).

The Amalfi Coast may be foreign to Robert but The Equalizer 3 treads familiar ground, both in terms of its franchise precursors and the many genre ancestors upon whose shoulders it stands. Given that these films have always been high-gloss B-movies, however, a lack of originality is hardly a death knell. In fact, playing by old-school rules means that little time is wasted on superfluous exposition and primary focus is maintained on Washington. Theres a crime conspiracy afoot in this overseas saga, yet its specifics are at once simplistic and difficult to parse and, moreover, they dont matter. All that counts here is the sight of Washington suffering under the weight of his sins, struggling to squash his homicidal impulses, and inevitably falling off the murderous wagon and offing a host of cretins who get whats coming to them.

Sony Pictures Entertainment Inc.

Theres no way to spoil an endeavor like The Equalizer 3 because the promise it makes audiencescome see Denzel slay scoundrels as a veritable Grim Reaper with a conscience!is bound to be fulfilled. Courtesy of Enzo, Robert delays his trip to the hereafter and nurses himself back to health, limping, walking and eventually running up the many stairs that pepper this mountainous region. Hes convinced to buy a snazzy hat and finds a nice cafe where he orders tea that he places on carefully laid-out napkins (because hes neat) and meets a waitress (Gaia Scodellaro) who makes him dinner, if never initiates a true May-December romance. He additionally takes note of gangsters, led by Marco (Andrea Dodero), harassing fishmonger Angelo (Daniele Perrone)and is noticed by them as well.

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This encounter is Roberts introduction to Camorra, aka the mafia, which according to Enzo runs this town and many others like it. While hes removed his stopwatch and begun attending churchboth signs that he wants to leave the past behind and atone for his prior violent deedsRobert detests nothing more than evil men preying on the innocent. This invariably puts him in conflict with Marco and his big brother Vincent (Andrea Scarduzio), an ambitious wannabe-Godfather who plans to take over the region and whose penchant for viciousness almost exceeds Roberts, as evidenced by a meeting with an arrogant police chief. In this and many other scenes, Fuqua lingers on gruesome brutality and its aftermath, his camera panning towardand gazing with fascination atsevered, sliced, smashed and exploded body parts. Its R-rated excess designed to elicit grim thrills and chills, although better are the directors clean, sturdy widescreen compositions and the materials patient, precise pace.

Robert may have thought he was out but these criminals keep pulling him back in. If The Equalizer 3 werent formulaic enough, it pairs Washington with his Man on Fire partner Dakota Fanning as the CIA agent that Robert tips off about the vineyard slaughter. Fanning exhibits some steely resolve of her own and her reunion with Washington gives the proceedings a modest added-value jolt. Still, their dynamic mostly serves to underscore Roberts preternatural ahead-of-the-game control over any and every situation, be it a night out at a restaurant thats interrupted by the arrival of uninvited guests, or a climactic siege on a fortified mansion thatin light of the actions general grislinessproves rather tame and anticlimactic.

Sony Pictures Entertainment Inc.

The main attraction in The Equalizer 3 is Washington, who once again works hard to imbue his hero with depth. Thats not a wholly successful undertaking considering that Robert is, at heart, the type of methodical killer-with-a-code thats been a cinematic staple since at least Jean-Pierre Melvilles 1967 masterpiece Le Samourai. Nonetheless, there are less entertaining things one can witness than the sight of the Oscar winner decapitating villains and shooting through one dead adversarys head in order to kill another.

Washington broods (oh the tortured guilt!) and laughs (oh the redemptive Italian air!) and struts about with unflappable self-assurance, and his magnetism is so forceful that the pose rings true. Its far from the most nuanced or compelling performance of his career, but its proof that few contemporary actors can light up a screen the way he does, regardless of the project at hand.

The Equalizer 3 briefly shouts out to the franchises preceding two entries (including via a late twist), and yet Fuquas film is basically a stand-alone affair, as self-contained as any episode of the television show upon which its based. Its also as efficient and straightforward as that predecessor, if not quite as disposable, thanks to its peerless star.

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Ron DeSantis is facing a growing number of challenges in his day job as governor of Florida as he seeks to stabilize a GOP presidential campaign that has been criticized as sputtering.

DeSantis was booed Sunday at a vigil in Jacksonville for the victims of a racially-motivated shooting that left three people dead. The boos seemed targeted at DeSantis over criticism of education policies hes backed that offended Black politicians in both parties.

Separately, DeSantis is bracing for Tropical Storm Idalia, which is projected to grow to a Category 3 hurricane and potentially hit the Sunshine State later this week.

While the storm is a real danger for Florida, its also an opportunity of sorts for DeSantis, who is one of the few Republicans in the presidential race currently serving constituents. Many of DeSantiss main rivals are former officeholders who do not have to deal with the challenges of governing  or managing disasters and tragedies.

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Governors are defined in Florida by how well they manage crisis, said Christian Ziegler, chairman of Floridas Republican Party. This is just another event that hes going to have to manage and see us through.

It is a role in which DeSantis has previously flourished.

I think Gov. DeSantis did a great job during Hurricane Ian, Ziegler said. Theres nothing to lead me to believe that wouldnt be different here.

Clearly Gov. DeSantis has the playbook on how to address these, Ziegler said.

DeSantis received widespread praise for his response last year to Hurricane Ian, which hit Florida the September before his reelection bid in November. Hurricane Ian was one of the deadliest storms to make landfall in the continental U.S., resulting in 150 deaths, $12.6 billion in insured damage and thousands left without power.

A YouGov poll released in October 2022 found that 80 percent of Republicans and 43 percent of Democrats said they approved of DeSantiss response to the storm; 54 percent of respondents overall said they either strongly or somewhat approved of DeSantiss response.

On Saturday, DeSantis declared a state of emergency in 33 Florida counties. Hes since expanded that order to include 13 additional counties.

Its an opportunity for him to show [the] decisive leadership people want to see out of the White House, said Ford OConnell, a Florida-based Republican strategist.

Its fair to say DeSantis is showing quick decisive leadership in times of disaster, OConnell said. That is something that has been lacking in the Biden administration.

Just days ago, DeSantis was sharing a stage with seven other candidates seeking the GOP presidential nomination.

DeSantis, second in most national polls to former President Trump among primary voters, was widely seen in that debate as receding to the background as other Republicans, including businessman Vivek Ramaswamy, stole attention.

DeSantis has been seen as needing a boost of some sorts to add momentum to a stalling campaign, which has not seemed to gain traction on Trump.

Yet there are some signs that things are picking up for the Floridian. A Washington Post poll after the debate found GOP voters turning to DeSantis, while a new Emerson College poll found him gaining two points from 10 percent to 12 percent  with Trump losing 6 points.

Yet other candidates gained more in the Emerson poll, including former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley, who rose from 2 percent to 7 percent, and former Vice President Mike Pence, who rose from 3 percent to 7 percent.

The storm is getting much of DeSantiss attention.

DeSantis and President Biden spoke over the phone earlier Monday in preparation. According to a White House readout of the call, Biden said Florida will have the White Houses support in the face of the storm.

While DeSantis is challenging Biden for the White House and the two have sparred over a number of issues in the past, the governor and the president also have a history of coming together in times of crisis.

During Bidens visit to Florida in the aftermath of Hurricane Ian last year, DeSantis received praise from the president for his handling of the storm.

We have very different political philosophies, but weve worked hand in glove, the president said during a visit to Fort Myers. Weve been completely lockstep; theres been no daylight.

Biden and DeSantis also worked together in the aftermath of the deadly condo building collapse in Surfside in 2021.

Youve recognized the severity of this tragedy from day one. And youve been very supportive, DeSantis said to Biden two years ago.

Aside from Idalia, DeSantis is dealing with raw emotions after a gunman killed three Black people at a Jacksonville Dollar General store.

Democratic City Councilwoman JuCoby Pittman, who represents the neighborhood where the shooting took place., praised DeSantis at the vigil where he heard boos.

Governor, I know youre here, Pittman said. And you know what? Im glad youre here, because you can see the people and the impact its had on the community.

Someone in the crowd yelled, He dont care, and when DeSantis began speaking, he was booed.

But Pittman urged the crowd to be respectful of the governor, saying, A bullet dont know a party.

What [the gunman] did is totally unacceptable in the state of Florida, DeSantis said, referring to the shooter as a major league scumbag.

We are not going to let people be targeted based on their race, he added.

Republicans point to Pittmans response to the boos at the vigil and say DeSantis has done the best job he can in the situation.

He handled the shooting the best way you could, and he came there and said this is what Im going to do, OConnell said.

Other Democrats have criticized the governor, however. State Rep. Angie Nixon (D) said DeSantis has blood on his hands.

This is a governor who has done nothing but fan these types of happenings throughout our state, Nixon said.

DeSantiss campaign press secretary Bryan Griffin said in a statement Monday that DeSantis was focused on leading his state through the shooting and storm.

He attended a community prayer vigil and committed additional funding to Florida HBCUs for added security, Griffin said. Hes now at the helm of Floridas hurricane response and is working with local officials across the state to do everything necessary to ensure Florida is fully prepared. This is the strong leadership in times of crisis that Americans can expect from a President DeSantis.

Even as DeSantis deals with serious storms and violent shootings, he must also deal with taunts from Trump. On Monday, the former president claimed on Truth Social that he heard rumors that DeSantis would drop out of the presidential race to run for the Senate against Sen. Rick Scott (R-Fla.). DeSantiss team denied Trumps claim, calling it fake news.

He wants to make sure that nobody gives DeSantis a second look, OConnell said, referring to the former president.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
An overnight family camping event starts at 5:30 p.m. Friday at Randall Oaks Park in West Dundee. (Dundee Township Park District/HANDOUT)

Family camping festival planned for Randall Oaks Park

There will be an overnight family camping festival starting Friday evening at Randall Oaks Park, 750 Randall Road, West Dundee.

The schedule starts with setup and dinner from 5:30 to 7 p.m., followed by a tour of Randall Oaks Zoo at 7 p.m., a campfire and smores at 8 p.m., lights out at 10 p.m., breakfast at 7:30 a.m. and packing up by 10 a.m., according to the Dundee Township Park District.

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Participants should bring their own tents, sleeping bags and dinner. Registration is $14 for township residents, $17 for nonresidents.

To register, go to register.dtpd.org. For more information, call 847-428-7131.

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Mary Mangione, principal of School District U-46's DREAM Academy, will be honored in November as the Illinois Administrator of the Year by the Illinois Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance. (School District U-46/HANDOUT)

DREAM Academy principal named administrator of year

DREAM Academy Principal Mary Mangione has been named the Illinois Administrator of the Year by the Illinois Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance.

The award is given to an administrator who has championed the associations causes, according to a news release posted online by School District U-46. Mangione will be honored at the groups state convention Nov. 30 at the Tinley Park Convention Center.

The DREAM Academy, 46 S. Gifford St., Elgin, is the districts alternative educational option.

West Dundee honors man who stopped school fire spread

Chris Palmer, a project superintendent with Lamp Inc. of Elgin, has been presented with the West Dundee Fire Departments Lamplighter Award for actions that prevented the spread of a fire at Dundee Middle School.

A fire broke out at the school on July 12 due to electrical equipment that malfunctioned, Fire Chief Michael Spiro said at the Aug. 12 village board meeting at which Palmer was honored.

Palmer, part of a construction crew working in the facility, jumped in to shut off the equipments power supply despite it unrelated to the work he was doing, thereby preventing the fire from getting larger, a new release said.

The Lamplighter Award was created by West Dundee Village President Chris Nelson to recognize people who go above and beyond the call of duty.
TALLAHASSEE, Fla.  Gov. Ron DeSantis on Tuesday said Florida emergency officials were making final preparations ahead of Hurricane Idalia, as cities and counties ordered more than 1.5 million people to leave their homes ahead of the strengthening storm.

The National Hurricane Center issued an advisory warning that Idalia strengthened into a hurricane early Tuesday morning and to expect it to intensity into an extremely dangerous major hurricane before making landfall Wednesday. The storm is predicted to make landfall in the Big Bend region.

DeSantis told reporters during a press conference in Tallahassee that the storm will bring potentially deadly coastal flooding and high winds that will leave tens of thousands of people without power.

You run from the water and you hide from the wind, DeSantis said. If you are given those orders, please heed those orders.



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Already, dozens of school districts have canceled classes, Tampa International Airport has closed and state government offices in Tallahassee will not be open, though staffers will be working from home as needed.

Local officials in 22 counties ordered upward of 1.5 million people in low-lying and flood prone areas or who live in mobile homes to evacuate. DeSantis said there was a chance that winds could steer Idalia further west, potentially impacting Tallahassee and the Capitol.

The Florida region in the path of Idalia has not been hit by a hurricane since the late 1800s. DeSantis said residents living in those areas should not underestimate the danger of the storm.

Those coastal areas there have not necessarily been through this before, DeSantis said. Being safe is the appropriate thing to do, and erring on the side of caution is the appropriate thing to do.

Everyone just remain vigilant, DeSantis said. Continue to watch and listen to the local orders that you receive from your local emergency management personnel.

The National Hurricane Center in Miami issued a hurricane warning that stretches between Franklin and Sarasota counties. A storm surge warning predicts the Big Bend area to see a storm surge that could push up to 12 feet of Gulf water onto the coast. The state has deployed eight search and rescue teams to scour the coast for residents. DeSantis also called in 5,500 members of the state National Guard to assist with rescue operations along with police officers from several state agencies.

Idalia is also predicted to affect some of the poorest counties in the state, and recovery costs for things like debris removal are expected to easily surpass local budgets. The Federal Emergency Management Agency usually only reimburses storm recovery costs paid by states, counties and municipalities, but Kevin Guthrie, executive director of the Florida Division of Emergency Management, said FEMA has agreed to cover the most critical costs up front.

They know that we're going to be asking for several expedited projects from the state level we're going to encourage counties to do the same, Guthrie said.

The state Division of Emergency Management and FEMA are finalizing the amount of federal money that will go into storm recovery costs, Guthrie said. Usually FEMA covers 75 percent of the cost, and the remaining 25 percent is shared between state and local government.
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis is doubling down on his promise to use lethal force against fentanyl traffickers attempting to cross the U.S. southern border if elected president, telling voters at the first GOP presidential debate last week that he would use all available powers as commander-in-chief to suppress the epidemic.

But homeland security officials tell McClatchy that an overwhelming majority of fentanyl is being smuggled through the border at legal ports of entry  and not by foreign nationals, but by U.S. citizens.

Data collected by U.S. Customs and Border Protection shows that over 96% of seizures this year have been at legal entry points, a number consistent with prior years. Moreover, 89% of individuals convicted of trafficking fentanyl last year were Americans.

And very few people encountered by U.S. Border Patrol while entering the country illegally are found to be carrying illegal drugs. In 2022, less than 0.02% of people stopped while crossing the border between ports of entry  279 individuals out of over 1.8 million asylum seekers  were found by law enforcement to be carrying fentanyl, according to Border Patrol data.

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The vast majority of fentanyl caught at legal border crossings are found in tractor trailers and passenger vehicles driven by U.S. citizens, who are far less likely to face scrutiny attempting to reenter the country, Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas told reporters at a roundtable discussion earlier this year.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection data evidences that more than 90% of the fentanyl that is brought into this country is trafficked through the ports of entry, which is why we have surged operations to those ports of entry to increase the interdiction of fentanyl that is causing so much death and destruction in our country, Mayorkas told the House Judiciary Committee last month in an open hearing.

A study analyzing government data and published last week by the CATO Institute, a conservative think tank, found that hard drugs at ports of entry are about 97% less likely to be stopped than are people crossing illegally between them.

U.S. citizens are overwhelmingly responsible for fentanyl trafficking into and through the United States, David Bier, the author of the study and associate director of immigration studies at CATO, told McClatchy, so restricting immigration will have almost no effect on the supply of fentanyl.

The data has driven the Biden administrations strategy to increase resources at ports of entry that can be used to detect fentanyl, U.S. officials said, including the installation of new multi-energy portal systems that can scan trucks and pedestrian cars entering the country without holding up traffic.

What [the data] indicates is that smugglers prefer to use points of entry, because its higher risk to move between them, one homeland security official told McClatchy. Theyre counting on getting a higher volume through at ports where the amount of regular traffic is so high.

DeSantis campaign did not respond to a request for comment Monday on whether DeSantis was aware that the vast majority of fentanyl is seized at legal ports of entry.

But DeSantis promise to use lethal force at the border has become a pillar of his immigration platform, which also includes the idea that state and local law enforcement officers should be given the authority to arrest and deport migrants to assist the federal government secure the border.

As governor, DeSantis has repeatedly tested the states powers in enforcing federal immigration laws, such as sending migrants from Texas to cities Democratic strongholds without notice. At the GOP debate on Wednesday, he laid out a vision that would allow like-minded state and local leaders to continue to do the same.

The cartels are killing tens of thousands of our fellow citizens, DeSantis said. We have to reestablish the rule of law and we have to defend our people. The president of the United States has got to use all available powers as commander in chief to protect our country.

DeSantis told the story of a woman who lost her son to fentanyl after taking a Percocet laced with the drug. DeSantis suggested that cartels are smuggling the poison through an open southern border, where U.S. Special Forces could be deployed to shoot them down.

When theyre coming across, yes, were going to use lethal force, he continued. Yes, we reserve the right to operate. How many more tens of thousands are we going to let die?

Since 2018, fentanyl has driven a record surge in drug overdose deaths across the country. Over 70,000 Americans died from synthetic opioids  primarily fentanyl  in 2021, the last year with verified data from the National Institutes of Health, accounting for 66% of all overdose deaths that year. Provisional data from the National Center for Health Statistics suggests that overdose deaths plateaued in 2022.

The Mexican government has been a cooperative partner, Biden administration officials said. But Republican critics of the presidents response to the crisis say that lethal force is necessary at the border despite the adverse reaction that might follow from Mexico City.

Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador has been a critic of DeSantis for some time now, and has even urged Americans to not vote for him because of his immigration policies, which he has categorized as a persecution of migrants for political gain.

In an interview with NBC News, DeSantis was asked how he would tell good guys from bad guys, especially when folks are crossing the border under cover of night.

Same way a police officer would know, DeSantis responded. Same way somebody operating in Iraq would know. You know, these people in Iraq at the time, they all looked the same. You didnt know who had a bomb strapped to them.

So those guys have to make judgments, he said.
McALLEN, Texas (Border Report)  The Department of Homeland Security on Monday held an online Extreme Heat Summit to help communities find federal grants and resources to deal with extreme weather. It was held on a day when two South Texas cities in the Rio Grande Valley broke all-time record highs.

Texas National Guard member allegedly shoots man across border

On Monday, Brownsville, Texas, tied its all-time record high of 106 degrees, according to the National Weather Service. That beat the old high of 101 degrees, according to ValleyCentral.com.

The border city of McAllen, Texas, broke its daily record with 106 degrees, which beat the old record set in 2018, ValleyCentral reported.

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Hazardous weather conditions were warned for Brownsville residents, according to the National Weather Service.

Migrant deaths between San Diego and Tijuana are up

The South Texas region, like most of Texas, has been trapped under a dome of heat for several weeks that doesnt appear will let up any time soon, meteorologists predict.

Temperatures topped 106 degrees in McAllen, Texas, on Monday. Palm Trees are seen in this file photo from neighboring Hidalgo, Texas. (Sandra Sanchez/Border Report File Photo)

Extreme heat is no longer a looming threat in a climate-change-driven future. It is an urgent, dangerous and deadly problem in our country today. One in three Americans are currently living under a heat alert, and heat is already the number one weather-related cause of death in the United States, Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas said in opening statements for Mondays webinar summit.

Federal government says SpaceX discriminated against hiring refugees and asylees

Mayorkas said Texas and Florida have suffered through recent weeks of triple-digit heat. But he also mentioned Wisconsin and South Dakota as having unusually hot weather that has affected communities.

He said about 700 people die from extreme heat every year.

On the other hand, he said officials in Washington understand what the prolonged heat is doing to infrastructure and communities.

Sustained extreme heat can cripple our roadways, runways, railways, electrical grids, and other critical infrastructure, severely curtailing our ability to surge resources to communities in need, and compounding the human cost, Mayorkas said.

FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell was helping to explain resources during Mondays webinar.

Mayorkas said on Monday the Biden administration announced nationwide projects selected for $1.8 billion in new weather-related grant funding.

There also is $650 million available for heat mitigation assistance funding, he said.

Earlier this summer, the Biden administration announced $200 million in funding for projects in 23 states affected by extreme weather and heat.

Various federal funding opportunities can be found at the National Integrated Heat Health Information System at heat.gov.

Sandra Sanchez can be reached at SSanchez@BorderReport.com.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego.
When the Virginia Marine Police officer got a call about a manatee, he said he didnt believe it.

I was surprised to see a manatee up here, in fact I didnt believe it when the call came in, Officer Neil Gunter said in Aug. 28 news release from the marine police.

Police received a report on Aug. 27 from paddleboarders about a manatee trapped in a pound net near Windmill Point, in Virginias Northern Neck, officials said.

Gunter found the manatee freely swimming and not appearing to be in distress, police wrote in the release.

He contacted the Virginia Stranding Team, which assists in rescuing aquatic animals that end up entangled or stranded on beaches, according to the Virginia Aquarium.

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Pound nets are a type of fishing gear that corrals fish into a pound and prevents them from escaping, according to NOAA Fisheries.

Gunter moored his boat next to the pound net and watched over the manatee to ensure it was alright, police said. He also contacted the owner of the pound net, who showed up shortly after.

Gunter and the owner of the pound net were able to lower the fishing gear, allowing the manatee to swim out freely, unharmed and no worse for wear, according to the release.

Despite the surprise over the manatee sighting, the sea cows can travel as far north as Massachusetts during warm months, according to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. However, most prefer to hang farther south.

It was cool to see one in person and I am glad that I could help in its time of need, Gunter said. Its what we do.

Adult manatees normally grow 9 to 10 feet and weigh around 1,000 pounds, although they can weigh as much as 3,500 pounds, according to the FWC. The sea cows consume seagrass and other plants.

The manatee was last seen continuing its journey back out of the Chesapeake Bay, according to marine police.

Creatures are piling on beaches for awkward reason, Florida cops say. Dont call us

It looks like pasta is blanketing Florida beach  but experts have real explanation

Struggling manatee was close to dying. Photos show Florida deputys heroic rescue

Displaced sea cow appears in unusual spot  and prompts warning in Australia
(Bloomberg) -- New York City business leaders urged Congress and the Biden administration to provide more money to deal with a flood of 100,000 asylum seekers straining local coffers.

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The situation is overwhelming the resources not only of the border region but of city and state governments across the nation, the Partnership for New York City wrote in an open letter to President Joe Biden and congressional leaders Tuesday.

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The cost for sheltering and care of the migrants could exceed $12 billion by July 2025, jeopardizing the citys ability to provide goods and services to its more than 8 million residents, Mayor Eric Adams said this month.

New York has previously called on other municipalities around the state to take on more responsibility for housing and feeding new arrivals, who are currently filling shelters, hotels and makeshift tent facilities. Adams and New York Governor Kathy Hochul have said the federal government should mount a comprehensive national response that would provide migrants a path out of New Yorks care.

The letter from the business leaders was signed by the co-chairmen of the Partnership for New York City, Pfizer Inc. Chief Executive Officer Albert Bourla and Tishman Speyer Properties CEO Rob Speyer. They were joined by dozens of other local CEOs, including JPMorgan Chase & Co.s Jamie Dimon, BlackRock Inc.s Larry Fink and KKR & Co.s Henry Kravis.

We urge you to take immediate action to better control the border and the process of asylum, and provide relief to the cities and states that are bearing the burdens posed by the influx of asylum seekers, the group wrote.

Read More: New York Escalates Call for Federal Help on NYC Migrant Crisis

Many of the migrants who have arrived in New York are unable to work legally until their immigration cases work through the system. The city says its attempting to help them find work, offering safety training required for construction jobs, access to NYC identification cards and connections to legal clinics to fill out authorization forms. But state and city officials want a response from the federal government that would include expediting the process.

The federal government can expedite work authorizations through executive actions like granting and extending Temporary Protected Status, specifically for countries like Venezuela, which constitute a significant portion of the arriving population and where the situation on the ground continues to deteriorate, Hochul wrote in a letter to the Biden administration released last week.

DHS Letter

The US Department of Homeland Security recently criticized the citys response to the migrant crisis in letters sent to city and state officials dated Aug. 27.

In the letters, obtained by Bloomberg News, DHS Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas identified approximately two dozen recommendations to strengthen the Citys migrant operations and cited structural and operational issues that DHS identified after visiting city shelter facilities in July. The Biden administration planned to share more detail with the Adams administration about those recommendations this week.

In one letter addressed to Hochul, Mayorkas said that federal officials understand the need for timely issuance of employment authorization documents for eligible non-citizens but cautioned that we continue, unfortunately, to work within statutory constraints that do not ably serve our nations labor needs.

The citys migrant crisis has recently spilled out into city streets, as a temporary crush of incoming people left the city scrambling to find beds earlier this month. For several sweltering days, dozens of migrants were left sleeping on the sidewalks in Midtown Manhattan outside of the Roosevelt Hotel, which has served for months as the citys official intake center for migrants whove come to New York.

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New York voters disapprove of how Adams, Hochul and Biden are handling the crisis, according to a Siena College poll.

--With assistance from Maria Paula Mijares Torres, Fola Akinnibi and Sarah Holder.

(Updates with details on Mayorkas letters starting in ninth paragraph)

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Water reflections of the American flag and the, now defunct, South Vietnamese flag in Little Saigon in 1999 at the site of the anticommunist protest against the Vietnamese video store operator who put up a picture of Ho Chi Minh alongside the Communist Vietnamese flag. Credit - Don Kelse/Los Angeles Times/ Getty Images

As a second-generation Vietnamese American I spent much of my youth railing against my heritage. The reasons were as simple as being a normal rebellious teenager, and as complex as not understanding how PTSD could be a catalyst for generational trauma. As an adult Ive worked hard to appreciate where I come from, but earlier in 2023 at an online Accented event hosted by the Diasporic Vietnamese Artists Network (DVAN), I found myself, once again, at odds with my community.

In the chatroom, a flurry of discussions about the Vietnamese diaspora chased each other up my screen when a thumbnail caught my eye. In the photo, a smiling Vietnamese girl posed with the peace sign. Her purple pigtails danced in the static picture, and beside her face was the question: When can we talk about Viet Joy? She was tired of Vietnamese people being synonymous with the Vietnam War. Claps and raised hands emojis celebrated the comment. I waited for someone to interject, or merely even say, its not that simple. When no one did, I exited the conversation. Alone, I fumed.

What is so wrong about wanting joy? Ill get to that, but first we need to rewind a few years. Okay, a lot of yearsto 1994 when I was nine.

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A keychain with white block letters swung from the zipper of my green JanSport backpack. The letters spelled my name, "J-A-M-I-E," and there was a dolphin at the bottom. Id just finished the first day of fourth grade. Fresh off a move from Tustin to Orange, California, I was new at this school. Walking toward my cousins carpool, I stared at my feet partly because eye contact made me queasy but also because of my tendency to trip over air.

I like your keychain. Dolphins are my favorite animal, too, a voice said. I looked up into the piercing blue eyes of a girl with blonde hair and beautiful tan highlights in her Goldilocks curls.

I like your name, I said. While I was typically bad at remembering names, I knew hers for two reasons: One, because it was embroidered across her plush purple backpack and, two because we had the same name spelled slightly differently: "Jamie" and "Jaime." But a difference in spelling was hardly a reason not to be friends. Our obvious commonalities had BFF written all over us. When she told me she swam with dolphins over the summer, I immediately thought of matching Best and Friend lockets.

Wanna eat together at lunch tomorrow? I asked.

I cant. The words burned in my ears. Experience told me I should know better, but I was desperate for a companion. I wanted to say something that would change her mind, but before I had a chance, she added, My mom would kill me if she knew we were friends. She hates your kind. I smileda nervous reflexand we parted ways. Id always known the Vietnam War was unpopular in America, Id just never had it said directly to my face.

There were many other instances like this in my formative years, but for the sake of this story, lets call this the beginning. This moment marked the start of an intense desire to shift away from all things Vietnamese. If Jaimes mom, sitting behind the steering wheel of her brown minivan more than 100 yards away, could tell that something was wrong with my kind, my deficiencies must have been pretty obvious.

Fast forward to 1995, when my family visited Vietnam for the first time since my parents fled as refugees. I was 10 years old, wearing butterfly shorts and a white T-shirt. I followed behind my mom and older sister in a crowded outdoor market. Wed been in the country less than 48 hours, and Id already heard (from strangers, mind you) that I was the ugly sister, fat, round, chubby, and had a face that is easy to hate. Apparently, that last one was a complimentsimilar to Her cheeks are so cute I just want to pinch them, but I didnt see how the two were comparable. If you cant see, its because your eyes are broken, my mother told me.

Four years later, on February 26, 1999, Vietnamese protesters headlined the news throughout the U.S. A video store owner in Westminster, Calif. put up a picture of Ho Chi Minh alongside the Communist Vietnamese flag. Tensions were high, the posters people carried were chilling, and I felt a shame and sadness I couldnt yet explain. I was not a refugee, but it bothered me to know that this was the country my parents grew up in. This Vietnam I saw in the posters was my mom and dads beloved homelandmy ancestral culture. And it was broken.

The year of the protests marked a turning point in my narrow-minded perspective. I tiptoed into my familys history collecting only a few stories because no one wanted to discuss the past. But one memory, in particular, laid heavy on my chest. My grandmother, Me, lost her husband in her late 30s. With six kids to feed and bombs dropping from the sky as frequently as rain, she dug a ditch deep enough for her youngest three (two were under the age of 5, and one was my mother) to fit, covered the hole with boards, and left them there while she walked the streets selling her goods. At four ft., eight in. tall, Me was a warrior.

Read More: 50 Years After 1968, We Are Still Living In Its Shadow

Then in 2017, my uncle, whose PTSD mirrored my dads but couldnt be hidden, passed away. His death took with it answers to questions my generation never figured out how to ask. As his body was laid to rest, I wondered if he ever found joy after the war. Ill never know. Without a record, death erases history.

All my life Ive struggled with what it means to be Vietnamese American. But I took my friends to try pho when it became trendy. Occasionally, I pronounced the name like I didnt speak Vietnamese, like I hadnt eaten this dish my entire life. I put on an ao dai for my wedding. And I unraveled my thoughts into a young adult book about intergenerational trauma as witnessed through my own broken eyes.

By the time I logged into the DVAN event, I had spent more than two decades unpacking personal trauma while building an emotionally empathic bridge toward my parents, my grandparents, my great-grandparents, and my Vietnam. The wooden slats connecting one step to next were arduous to build and left calluses that eventually healed into scars. Joy was not part of this journey. Guilt, shame, fury, regret, comprehension, and appreciation, yes. But not joy.

Because of this, my purple-haired nemesis comment felt like a personal affront. It read to me as, "Why dont you just get over it?" Angry and hurt, I ruminated on this term, "Viet Joy." When no answers emerged I did the only thing that seemed productive: I researched. Moving from one webpage to the next, I scoured the internet for examples. There are none. Viet Joy is not yet a concept in motion. Vindication should have tasted sweet; instead, my mouth was sour. The catalyst for my rage against Viet Joy suddenly looked a lot like jealousy.

Changing my approach, I considered where the term came from. Viet Joy is an iteration of Black Joy. I first learned about Black Joy from bookstagrammers who posted stacks of books written by African Americans which did not center on Black trauma. The Smithsonian defines Black Joy as an effective tool that has allowed individuals and groups to shift the impact of negative narratives and events in their favor. I love this term, and the hashtag led me to some of my favorite books, like Slay by Brittney Morris and Legendborn by Tracy Deonn.

As my mind initiated a shift, Viet Joy lingered at the edge of all my thoughts. The artistry manifested through Black Joy was inspiring, and the opportunity to create a space within my own head, controlled by my own thoughts, where I might love who I was, was a powerful draw. Who could I be if I learned to like myself? I wondered.

I read on. I learned that Black Joy is an affirmation that gives ownership of joy back to the person, how it is a form of resistance, and how it is not about forgetting.

The #BlackJoy hashtag led me to The Black Joy Project. Created by Kleaver Cruz, the Instagram page is filled with hundreds of posts where individuals defined Black Joy. The unifying thread that connects Black Joy is not made up of a single idea that all Black people believe. Black Joy is first a collective support for the each while knowing that what follows is the and every. It was here that I discovered that Viet Joy didnt need to be singularly defined. Its meaning can change with each person. And each and every definition is valid.

My error in judgment now glared at me. Each and every definition is valid. She was not the problem. I was. I could not accept her idea of Viet Joy because the ease with which she embodied the concept felt unearned. Why? Because if two paths exist and they both lead to the same destination, but one lets a person skip along while the other demands they crawl on their hands and knees across shards of broken glass, I would choose the latter option. The hardships my parents experienced after the war conditioned them to believe that the easier path was a trap. This was what they taught me and, therefore, what I expected of this purple-haired girl.

But this is how the cycle of generational trauma continues. Suffering begets suffering. My parents suffered, then passed their suffering along to me, and I suffered, so now I want this stranger to suffer, as well. Except I dont want to perpetuate the cycle. If I can, Id like to break it.

Contact us at letters@time.com.
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, left, speaks at a prayer vigil for the victims of a mass shooting a day earlier, in Jacksonville, Fla., Sunday, Aug. 27, 2023. (AP Photo/John Raoux) (ASSOCIATED PRESS)

CHICAGO (AP)  Police in Florida took a 15-year-old into custody six years ago for threatening to take his own life, though he was soon released following an involuntary mental health examination, according to official records.

This past weekend, that same person entered a Jacksonville Dollar General as a 21-year-old, wielding a rifle emblazoned with a swastika, and fatally shot three Black people in a racist attack. The gunman, who was white, then killed himself.

Saturday's shooting raises questions about whether so-called red flag laws in Florida and other states are used effectively. They are designed to seize guns from those in mental health crises, or who threaten violence, before they harm someone.

Red flag laws are relatively new. Connecticut became the first state to adopt one in 1999 after a mass shooting at a state lottery office. Now, over a third of U.S. states have them, including Florida, though their provisions vary.

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The proliferation of mass shootings nationwide has previously stoked debate about the effectiveness of red flag laws. Advocates see them as useful tools to thwart acts of violence. Others say their usefulness is exaggerated.

Heres a look at Floridas red flag law:

WHEN WAS IT ADOPTED?

Florida passed wide-ranging gun-control legislation in 2018, the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School Public Safety Act, that included the red flag law.

Lawmakers were spurred to action in part by a shooting at the school in Parkland after which the act is named. Law enforcement had received complaints about threats by the 19-year-old former student before he killed 17 people at the school on Feb. 14, 2018.

Among other things, the legislation also raised the minimum age to buy guns to 21.

Under the red flag provisions, law enforcement can ask a civil court to issue a risk prevention order that bars someone deemed dangerous to themselves or others from possessing guns. They also cant buy guns while the order is in effect.

The process is a civil matter. Someone doesnt need to be suspected of a crime for an order to be sought. A request can be prompted by a mental health crisis, or a display or threat of violence.

DID THE LAW APPLY TO THE JACKSONVILLE SHOOTER?

The Jacksonville gunman, Ryan Palmeter, had made racist writings discovered by his father after the shooting started. But it isnt clear whether he earlier made the kind of open threats of violence or engaged in witnessed behaviors that should have led to action under the state's red flag law.

In the weekend shooting, Palmeter used an AR-15-style semi-automatic rifle and a Glock handgun he bought legally this year, despite his involuntary commitment in 2017, Jacksonville Sheriff T.K. Waters has said.

Under Florida law, a person can be detained up to 72 hours for an involuntary mental health examination. If a person is released following the examination, rather than held for treatment, the commitment does not show up on a background check.

And when Palmeter was taken into custody for threatening his own life, that came before the 2018 legislation.

Asked in an interview Monday if he thought the shooting in his city pointed to some failure of state laws, Waters said the system did not fail, from what we can see.

There are so many people across this country that own guns and own guns legally and have never done anything with them, he added. I think its strange to vilify an object that that doesnt live, it doesnt breathe.

HOW IS FLORIDAS LAW DIFFERENT?

In Florida, a request for an order can be initiated and filed only by a law enforcement officer or a representative of a law enforcement agency. Some other states allow others to submit requests.

New Yorks 2019 red flag law was the first to give teachers and school administrators the ability to prevent school shootings by pursuing court intervention, a state website says. Family members, prosecutors and police in New York can also ask courts to intervene.

In Illinois, a roommate, in addition to parents and law enforcement officers, can make the request. In some states, doctors and workplace colleagues can.

While only law enforcement can file the petition in Florida, anyone can reach out to a law enforcement agency and ask it to look into a case and potentially file a petition based on what they find.

WHAT ELSE DOES FLORIDAS LAW SAY?

It requires that petitions for a court order include specific actions or threatening statements made by the subject of the request.

The Florida petition form, posted on court websites, says there must be proof that a person poses a significant danger of harming himself or herself or others by possessing a firearm or ammunition.

Once a petition is filed, a hearing must be held within 14 days for a judge to go through supporting evidence. If the danger seems imminent, the court can issue a temporary order while the full hearing is pending.

Proof must be clear and convincing  a high evidentiary bar  that someone is a risk before an order can be entered.

Orders can be issued for up to a year. After that, the order can be extended for another year, though courts must hold another hearing to do so. Targets of an order must surrender all guns and ammunition, as well as any concealed gun permit.

After an order is issued, the person it applies to can request to have it vacated. With an order in place, the burden is on the subject of an order to present clear and convincing evidence that they are no longer a risk to anyone.

WHAT ARE THE CRITICISMS OF SUCH LAWS?

Some worry red flag laws can lead to those with grudges against a gun owner to make false accusations to police about threats or mental issues. Proponents of red flag laws say existing laws against submitting false reports should help prevent that.

Others have challenged the constitutionality of red flag laws, saying they allow for the seizure of property  in this case, guns  even when no crime has been committed and through a truncated process that doesnt give subjects a fair chance to dispute the claims.

Among the safeguards against due process violations, courts have held, is the high standard of proof required in most states before an order can issued.

___

Associated Press writer Jake Offenhartz in New York City contributed to this report.
MEMPHIS, Tenn.  An 18-year-old boy is being accused of giving a 16-year-old girl an edible gummy while at school without knowing it had marijuana in it.

On August 24, Memphis Police officers were called to a home in Parkway Village. The mother stated her 16-year-old daughter was given a gummy laced with marijuana at Sheffield High School by a student named Oliver Arnaado.

Police say the incident occurred August 18 in the schools cafeteria and that after the girl ate the gummy, Arnaado told her it was marijuana and started laughing.

MPD: Women steal from Target, hit several police cars with 3 kids inside

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The 16-year-old said, Marijuana, Oliver, before getting hot and fainting, according to reports. She was then taken to Le Bonheur Childrens Hospital by the Memphis Fire Department.

A Shelby County School Security Officer said Arnaado was identified and searched, but no illegal substance was found on him or his backpack.

On August 26, officers say that the 16-year-old and her mom went to the police station and gave a statement. They claimed some of Arnaados friends came to their house and asked her not to get the police involved.

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On August 28, officers say they spoke with the security officer and Sheffield High Schools principal, Ms. Black. Ms. Black stated the 16-year-old girl kept saying, I dont want to die.

Arnaado was taken into custody for further investigation, where he later admitted to giving the 16-year-old the laced gummy.

He is being charged with Giving Adulterated Candy/Food and is scheduled to appear in court Wednesday morning.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WREG.com.
A former ringleader and three members of a neo-fascist gang that one member called the foot soldiers for the right were convicted on treason-related charges for plotting to unleash a violent assault in the halls of Congress.

More than two years after the attack, former Proud Boys leader Enrique Tarrio and four other men connected to the far-right group  known for their black-and-yellow outfits  appeared in a federal courtroom in prison-orange jumpsuits to face what could be the longest sentences yet in connection with the violent siege.

On 4 May, following a four-month trial and six days of jury deliberation, Tarrio and three of four other Proud Boys associates on trial alongside him were found guilty of seditious conspiracy, among other charges.

Federal prosecutors are now asking a judge this week to sentence convicted Proud Boys members to 20 to 33 years behind bars.

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In a sentencing memo, prosecutors said the men organized and directed a force of nearly 200 to attack the heart of our democracy and intentionally positioned themselves at the vanguard of political violence in this country.

The defendants understood the stakes, and they embraced their role in bringing about a revolution. They unleashed a force on the Capitol that was calculated to exert their political will on elected officials by force and to undo the results of a democratic election, prosecutors wrote. They failed. They are not heroes; they are criminals.

Fifteen people connected to the January 6 attack, including the leader of the far-right militia group the Oath Keepers, have either been convicted by a jury or pleaded guilty on charges of seditious conspiracy in the aftermath of the riots  major victories from a sprawling investigation from the US Department of Justice into hundreds of Capitol riot cases. Tarrios verdict marked the first successful seditious conspiracy conviction against a January 6 defendant who was not physically at the Capitol that day.

Tarrio and Oath Keepers leader Stewart Rhodes  who was sentenced to 18 years in prison, the longest January 6 sentence to date  are the highest-profile figures in the Justice Departments efforts, which have netted more than 1,000 arrests and more than 700 convictions.

Prosecutors have argued that both men fuelled violence and radicalized followers with a constant drumbeat of conspiracy theories echoing Donald Trumps baseless narrative that the 2020 presidential election was stolen from him.

During the Proud Boys trial, prosecutors presented hundreds of pieces of evidence from the days leading up to the January 6 attack, revealing the groups toxic rhetoric, culture of violence and damning messages depicting a gang that came together to use force against its enemies, according to prosecutors.

Prosecutors argued that the Proud Boys were not merely obedient followers of the former presidents commands but were preparing for all-out war to undermine millions of Americans votes and upend a democratic election to preserve his presidency.

These defendants saw themselves as Donald Trumps army, fighting to keep their preferred leader in power no matter what the law or the courts had to say about it, Conor Mulroe, a trial attorney for the Justice Department, told jurors in closing arguments.

Tarrio, Biggs, Ethan Nordean and Zachary Rehl were found guilty of seditious conspiracy after conspiring to forcefully oppose the lawful transfer of presidential power, a jury found.

All four men, as well as Dominic Pezzola, were also found guilty of obstruction of an official proceeding. Four of them  all but Pezzola  were also found guilty of conspiracy to obstruct an official proceeding, civil disorder and destruction of government property.

Pezzola also was found guilty of robbery and assaulting, resisting or impeding police.

Defence attorneys argued that there was no conspiracy to join the attack, an event they characterised as a spontaneous act of rage fuelled by then-President Trumps demands.

It was Donald Trumps words. It was his motivation, attorney Nayib Hassan told jurors in closing arguments. It was not Enrique Tarrio. They want to use Enrique Tarrio as a scapegoat for Donald J Trump and those in power.

The foot soldiers of the right

The group, founded in 2016 by Vice co-founder turned far-right commentator Gavin McInnes, has exploited white male aggression, weaponized semi-ironic posturing and relied on a veneer of drinking clubs to launder white nationalist, antisemitic and anti-LGBT+ tropes that lead to real-world violence.

Across his platforms, Mr McInnes carved out an ideological space for frustrated young men to rally around by arguing for the superiority of white western culture and against white liberal guilt, feminism, Islam and LGBT+ people, according to the Southern Poverty Law Center.

Over the last several years, the Proud Boys have emerged as a fascistic, right-wing political bloc relying on street-level violence in concert with right-wing media and Republican elected officials, according to SPLC senior research analyst Cassie Miller.

In the wake of January 6, as the group decentralized, members have harassed drag queen story-telling events at libraries and amplified groomer smears aimed at LGBT+ people.

Proud Boys have been central to a wave of attacks and threats against drag performers and the people and venues that host them, according to a recent report from the Institute for Strategic Dialogue. Proud Boys chapters targeted 60 such events, with more than half resulting in physical and verbal clashes, the report found.

Jeremy Bertino, a former North Carolina Proud Boy who served as a key witness for the government during the trial, said the group emerged as the foot soldiers of the right against antifascist demonstrators. Bertino is the only Proud Boy to plead guilty to seditious conspiracy.

Canadian authorities have designated the Proud Boys as a terrorist organisation.

Members also participated in Stop the Steal rallies across the US following Joe Bidens victory in the 2020 presidential election  including a rally on 12 December, 2020 in Washington DC, where members of the gang were filmed tearing down and burning Black Lives Matter banners at historically Black churches.

Rioters destroyed two Black Lives Matter banners at Metropolitan AME and Asbury United Methodist Church. Tarrio was wanted in connection with the destruction. He was arrested shortly after landing in Washington DC on 4 January, two days before the attack, which he watched unfold from a Baltimore hotel room after he was barred from re-entering the nations capital.

Trumps call to arms and January 6

Then-President Trump invoked the groups name during the first 2020 presidential debate on 29 September after debate moderator Chris Wallace repeatedly asked the president to denounce white supremacism.

Mr Trump asked for a name. Joe Biden, standing beside Mr Trump on the debate stage, suggested the Proud Boys.

Proud Boys, stand back and stand by, but Ill tell you what, somebodys got to do something about antifa and the left because this is not a right-wing problem, Mr Trump replied. This is a left-wing problem.

After his comments, Mr Biggs wrote on the social media platform Parler that President Trump told the Proud Boys to stand by because someone needs to deal with antifa ... well sir! were ready!!

Standing by, sir, Tarrio wrote on Twitter.

Mr Trumps remarks turned into a kind of catchphrase that quickly spread across far-right online spaces. Proud Boys-related T-shirts and other items with the phrase appeared in online shopping sites shortly after the debate.

Bertino testified to the House select committee investigating January 6 that Mr Trumps comments were a call to arms that helped swell the groups ranks exponentially afterward.

Members of the Proud Boys were seen outside the Tennessee state capitol on 21 August (REUTERS)

Proud Boys activity has been strongly correlated with the fortunes of former President Trump, according to the Armed Conflict Location & Event Data Project, noting that 97 of the 152 demonstrations involving Proud Boys in 2020 were explicitly in support of then-President Trump. That includes at least 79 demonstrations after Mr Trumps stand back and stand by remarks.

If Biden steals this election, [Proud Boys] will be political prisoners, Tarrio wrote on social media 16 November, 2020, days after media outlets projected Mr Bidens victory.

We wont go quietly.  I promise, he wrote, according to prosecutors.

Days later, he wrote: No Trump...No peace. No quarter.

During a sentencing hearing on 29 August, US District Judge Tim Kelly ran through messages used as evidence during the Proud Boys trial depicting members of the group using violence as a recruitment tool and then weaponizing their recruits.

Biggs took Mr Trumps comments as a signal to f*** up antifa. Nordean said it was time to f****** rage. Rehl called for firing squads for traitors who want to steal the election. Tarrio said media coverage warning of Proud Boys threats of civil war should be careful what the f*** you ask for.

We dont want to start one, he wrote, but we sure as f*** finish one.

Tarrio also possessed a document called 1776 Returns with plans to occupy crucial buildings in Washington, including House and Senate office buildings, on January 6.

We need many people as possible inside these buildings, the document states. These are OUR buildings, they are just renting space. We must show our politicians We the People are in charge.

Before he was arrested on 4 January, Tarrio wrote to Biggs: Whatever happens  make it a spectacle.

Biggs, Nordean and Rehl marched with a group to the Capitol and broke through barricades. Pezzola seized a riot shield from an officer and used it to break a window, through which the first members of the mob entered the Capitol, according to the indictment. Tarrio wrote he was proud of my boys and my country.

Brother, You know we made this happen, Bertino wrote to Tarrio that day.

We influenced people, the normies, enough to stand up for themselves to take back their country and take back their freedom, he later testified during the trial. We were always talking about being the tip of the spear, and that was just another example of us leading the way and leading by example. Follow us.
Donald Trump s attempts to make political hay out of his myriad legal woes continued on Monday when he shared a fake mug shot of President Joe Biden on his Truth Social platform.

The former president ReTruthed a doctored image of Biden, next to the Fulton County Sheriffs Office badge, with the caption: The Mugshot America Deserves.

Trump also shared other edited images of his own mug shot, which was released following his arrest in Georgia on Thursday for his alleged attempts to overturn the 2020 election result in the state:

Trump has predictably sought to raise money off the back of his mug shot, reportedly receiving more than $7 million in campaign donations in the first two days after its release.

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The picture itself sparked a meme.

It also prompted Fox News Jesse Watters to say Trump looked good and hard.

Biden, meanwhile, had a deadpan response when asked about the image.

I did see it on television, the president told reporters. Handsome guy. Wonderful guy.

Related...
At the crossroads of the Middle East and Eastern Europe, the rich cultural traditions of Armenia came to life in a celebration of food, art and history on Sunday, Aug. 27 for the annual Taste of Armenia Street Fair.

Dance performances by the Hamazkayin Sardarabad Dance Ensemble during the 35th annual Taste of Armenia Street Fair Sunday in Evanston. (Gina Grillo/Gina Grillo for Pioneer Press)

St. James of the Nisibis Armenian Apostolic Orthodox Church in Evanston held the 35th annual festival from noon to 6 p.m., on the street adjacent to the church located at 816 Clark Street.

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What started out as a small group of parishioners gathering for an end of summer picnic in Harms Woods, has become a major Armenian cultural celebration in downtown Evanston, Rev. Hovhan Khoja-Eynatyan, pastor said. This is our largest annual fundraiser, and it gives us a chance to present our culture and to be good neighbors to the community.

The festival came alive with music by the John Paklian Band, cultural dance performances by the Hamazkayin Sardarabad Dance Ensemble and the Siragan Armenian Dance Company of Chicago, with inside church tours throughout the afternoon, a concert by the Saint James Nareg Bell Choir and presentations on Armenian herbal remedies by parishioner and organist Dr. Nooshig Salvador.

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St. James Womens Guild members Rachel Simon and Nairy Hagopian serve delicacies like cheese and spinach boreg (filled baked filo dough) and yalanchi (stuffed vegetarian grape leaves) and deserts like khadayeef, pakhlava and an assortment of Armenian homemade pastries made by parishioners during the 35th annual Taste of Armenia Street Fair in Evanston Sunday. (Gina Grillo/Gina Grillo for Pioneer Press)

On Clark Street, the tantalizing aroma of beef luleh and chicken kebab, hummus, baba ghanouj, tabbouleh and other authentic Armenian menu items wafted after being prepared by Levon Kirakosian, parishioner and owner of Siunik Armenian Grill in Glenview, and a team of church volunteers.

Armenian beer and wine was also served.

Delicacies like cheese and spinach boreg, filled baked phyllo dough, and yalanchi, stuffed vegetarian grape leaves, were served alongside desserts like khadayeef, pakhlava and an assortment of Armenian homemade pastries made by parishioners.

Dance performances by the Hamazkayin Sardarabad Dance Ensemble during the 35th annual Taste of Armenia Street Fair Sunday in Evanston. (Gina Grillo/Gina Grillo for Pioneer Press)

Despite the large spread, Kirakosian says the festival is not just about the food.

Cultural booths and a silent auction provided the sale of handmade and cultural items.

Cultural booths and a silent auction provided the sale of hand-made and cultural items during the St. James of the Nisibis Armenian Apostolic Orthodox Church 35th annual Taste of Armenia Street Fair in Evanston on Sunday. (Gina Grillo/Gina Grillo for Pioneer Press)

Event Chair Gevik Anbarchian says the event has become the grand finale gathering for the entire Armenian community in greater Chicagoland at the end of summer as well as a celebration that welcomes everyone.

Cultural booths and a silent auction provided the sale of hand-made and cultural items during the St. James of the Nisibis Armenian Apostolic Orthodox Church 35th annual Taste of Armenia Street Fair in Evanston on Sunday. Here St. James Volunteer Sarah Bertrand, sells cultural items to Marina Mainaev of Mundelein. (Gina Grillo/Gina Grillo for Pioneer Press)

Along with an annual fundraising goal of $30,000, the festival provides an important opportunity to bring our parishioners together with other Armenians in the area, Anbarchian said.

Funds raised will enable support of cultural and religious programs with a portion of the proceeds going toward community outreach, Anbarchian says.

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Dancing on Clark Street during the 35th annual Taste of Armenia Street Fair Sunday in Evanston. (Gina Grillo/Gina Grillo for Pioneer Press)

This event is one of few that provides an opportunity to share our culture, and a chance to get back in touch with our Armenian heritage, Mike Simoan of Buffalo Grove said.

Gina Grillo is a freelance reporter with Pioneer Press.
Mike Howe knew he had to get in line early just to have a chance at one of the few seats at the State Board of Education meeting on Thursday.

So, the 74-year-old retired Tulsa Public Schools educator arrived before dawn in the hopes of urging the board to support public schools with the fate of Oklahomas largest district hanging in the balance.

State education board meetings have traditionally attracted little interest, but Superintendent Ryan Walters controversial positions have drawn huge crowds to the monthly meetings.

In recent months, many have found themselves waiting hours in line only to be barred from entering the meeting room for capacity reasons or relegated to overflow spaces within the building.

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'Do not test me.' Ryan Walters demands quick improvement in Tulsa schools; accreditation approved

Walters supporters and critics alike are united in agreement that the meetings should be moved to a larger venue. People trying to attend have complained for months about the lack of space and access. They point to an Oklahoma open meetings law thats supposed to help protect their right to observe public officials as they make consequential decisions.

Its confusing to me that this department represents 700,000 children, which works out to be about 1.4 million parents, Howe said. Those are the stakeholders, and they have a room for 49 people. Something doesnt compute.

People sit in the lobby of the Oklahoma State Department of Education building during an Oklahoma State Board of Education meeting, Thursday, Aug. 24, 2023.

Oklahoma State Superintendent Ryan Walters says he's addressing lack of room at State Board of Education meetings

Walters said hes taking steps to address the frustrations.

After the state fire marshal determined only 49 people could safely fit in the boards meeting room and adjacent hallway, the Walters administration made accommodations to fit more visitors in other parts of the building by creating a 25-person overflow room and by broadcasting the meeting for those standing in the lobby.

But some say those accommodations arent enough.

Its the peoples building, said Preston Bobo, of Stillwater. Its the right of the people to participate in democracy, and that should be easy. Former Tulsa Public Schools principal Mike Howe was first in line for the Oklahoma Sate Board of Education meeting Aug. 24, 2023, in Oklahoma City. (Photo by Brent Fuchs/For Oklahoma Voice)

He left the overflow room ahead of the boards July meeting to watch a livestream at the nearby Oklahoma Education Association office.

Walters said he plans to move the meetings to a bigger space soon but hasnt yet been able to finalize an agreement.

We are actively in talks with some other venues, he said. Right now, were comparing prices and what that would look like with the audience that shows up.

People holds signs outside the Oklahoma State Department of Education building before an Oklahoma State Board of Education meeting, Thursday, Aug. 24, 2023.

Thursdays meeting drew perhaps the largest crowd yet to the Oliver Hodge building in Oklahoma City. A winding line of visitors began forming outside the building at 4 a.m. Many attendees were interested in a vote on the accreditation status of Tulsa Public Schools and whether the state would take over control of the district.

While the crowd at Thursdays meeting was peaceful, two months ago, two men were arrested for obstructing or impeding passage into the June board meeting after a skirmish broke out as members of the public filed into the room.

More: Arrest warrants issued over conflict at Oklahoma State Board of Education meeting

What does Oklahoma state law say about public meeting space?

State law requires government bodies to give advance notice of any meetings and stipulates all meetings must be open to the public.

The states Open Meeting Act doesnt explicitly require government bodies to meet in a place that has enough room for everybody who shows up, said Joey Senat, an open government expert and associate professor of journalism at Oklahoma State University. But making sure there is ample room for all who would like to attend is in the spirit of the act, he added.

The law and the principles of good government are two different things, Senat said. The Open Meeting Act provides the minimum standards of behavior  what the public body must do and must not do. Principles of good government, the spirit of the act, would call it to do more.

During the pandemic, state lawmakers temporarily amended the Open Meeting Act. The Attorney Generals Office then put out guidance on those changes that said public bodies could not use fire codes or public health emergencies to limit the number of people attending government meetings, Senat said.

Oklahoma state schools Superintendent Ryan Walters speaks during an Oklahoma State Board of Education meeting, Thursday, Aug. 24, 2023.

Former Attorney General Mike Hunters Office advised public bodies to look for larger meeting spaces or have designated overflow rooms just in case.

Senat said it appears the Walters administration is trying to make accommodations for the growing number of people seeking to attend board meetings.

At the July board meeting, Tori Caswell, of Stillwater, who was dressed like a handmaid from the dystopian novel and TV series The Handmaids Tale, watched the proceedings with a crowd of people in the lobby of the Department of Education.

Exclusive: A group spent $18K to help a Tulsa school board candidate. No one can say where the money came from

Both Caswell and Michael Jones, a Walters supporter from Oklahoma City, agreed that a larger meeting venue would be more appropriate.

On Thursday, state legislators and Tulsa Mayor G.T. Bynum were relegated to an overflow room.

Rep. Mark McBride, R-Moore, said it was his first time in six years that he couldnt get a seat in the main meeting room.

The eight (lawmakers) that were here, we represent 35,000 people each, McBride said. I think maybe we should have been in there.

A vocal critic of Walters, McBride chairs a powerful House education budget committee.

Walters said the Open Meeting Act is top of mind as the agency makes adjustments to fit more people.

We always want to accommodate everyone and do all we can to bring that transparency to the public, Walters said.

Staff writer Nuria Martinez-Keel contributed to this report.

Oklahoma Voice is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Oklahoma Voice maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Janelle Stecklein for questions: info@oklahomavoice.com. Follow Oklahoma Voice on Facebook and Twitter.

This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Ryan Walters says he plans to address packed rooms at board meetings
The upcoming HBO documentary chronicles the life of Luna, the first Black supermodel to appear on the covers of Vogue and Harpers Bazaar.

HBO just dropped a first look at  Donyale Luna : Supermodel, an upcoming documentary chronicling the life and career of the stunning sister who broke boundaries as the first Black supermodel to appear on covers of both Harpers Bazaar and Vogue magazines.

The project is set to hit HBO next month and will also stream on Max, bringing Lunas unique, powerful  and far too unknown  story to viewers at home.

Born Peggy Ann Freeman in Detroit, Michigan, Luna carved out her own path by reinventing herself as Luna, described as a larger-than-life character with an exotic accent and a mysterious aura, per her HBO biographys official synopsis, obtained by theGrio.

Donyale Luna: Supermodel is set to hit HBO next month, bringing Lunas unique, powerful  and far too unknown  story to viewers at home. (Photo: HBO)

The documentary highlights the story of someone who refused to be boxed in by the conventions of the time, and who had great wounds from her difficult childhood and the racism she encountered in her profession. Luna would go on to work with some of the greatest artists of her time, including Andy Warhol and Salvador Dali.

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She broke the mold of using Black models in the 60s, one contributor states in the trailer. At one point in her career, Luna was labeled too extreme for Vogue, a coded characterization identified as racism.

Donyale Luna: Supermodel also includes a variety of participants who offer their unique insights on Luna, who died at 33. Her daughter, Dream Cazzaniga, reads from her late mothers journals in the documentary, which also features Lunas husband, Luigi Cazzaniga, Vogue editor-at-large Hamish Bowles, supermodels Beverly Johnson and Pat Cleveland, plus a host of others.

Check out the moving trailer below:

As fashion industry veteran Constance C.R. White asks at the end of the clip: Donyale Luna was the first Black woman to be on the cover of Vogue  why dont we know more about her?

In tandem with New York Fashion Week, Donyale Luna: Supermodel will premiere Wednesday, Sept. 13th at 9:00  10:30 p.m. ET/PT on HBO and stream on Max.

TheGrio is FREE on your TV via Apple TV, Amazon Fire, Roku and Android TV. Also, please download theGrio mobile apps today!

The post Donyale Luna: Supermodel documentary chronicles life of Black modeling icon appeared first on TheGrio.
The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) said it seized more than 62 pounds of suspected cocaine, more than five ounces of suspected marijuana and five ounces of suspected THC products on Monday, Aug. 28, after a Texas Highway Patrol Trooper stopped a vehicle in Oldham County.

A Texas Highway Patrol Trooper discovered multiple plastic-wrapped packages of cocaine inside luggage in the trunk and suspected marijuana and THC in the rear seat area and glove box during a traffic stop on Interstate 40 Monday.

DPS said at about 1:30 p.m., a DPS trooper stopped a 2022 Cadillac CTS, which was traveling east on Interstate 40 near Wildorado, for a traffic violation. During the stop, the trooper found multiple plastic-wrapped packages of cocaine inside luggage in the trunk. In addition, suspected marijuana and THC were located in the rear seat area and glove box.

DPS Special Agents assisted with the investigation.

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The driver, identified as Brian Davis, 51, of Doylestown, Ohio, was arrested and booked into the Oldham County Jail on charges of felony possession of a controlled substance.

The drugs were reportedly being transported from Barstow, California, to Fairlawn, Ohio.

This article originally appeared on Amarillo Globe-News: DPS seizes 62 pounds of drugs during traffic stop in Oldham County
A driver is dead following an early morning collision in Merced County, according to authorities.

At about 5:40 a.m.Tuesday, California Highway Patrol officers responded to a report of a two-vehicle collision in the area of Highway 152 and Turner Island Road, according to a CHP news release.

Authorities said based on a preliminary investigation of the crash, it appears a 26-year-old man was driving a 2003 Honda Accord southbound on Turner Island Road and approaching a stop sign at the intersection with Highway 152.

At the same time, 38-year-old Lisa Rueckheim of Merced, was driving a 2020 Buick Encore west along Highway 152. The CHP said for unknown reasons, it appears the driver of the Honda failed to stop at the posted stop sign. Authorities said the driver of the Buick was not able to avoid a collision and the Buick collided with the drivers side of the Honda. Both of the vehicles continued west and ended up blocking both lanes of Highway 152, according to the release.

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The CHP said the driver of the Honda suffered major injuries in the collision and was pronounced dead at the scene. Both Rueckheim and a 12-year-old female passenger suffered minor injuries and were transported to a Modesto hospital.

Authorities said neither drugs nor alcohol appear to be a factor in the collision.
Members of the public pack the Salem City Council Chambers July 10 to speak about a proposed payroll tax.

An effort to repeal Salem's payroll tax before it goes to voters failed during Monday's City Council meeting.

The failure means the issue will be on the ballot in a special election this November.

Councilor Julie Hoy made the motion to repeal the tax. If it had passed, it would have canceled the public vote and saved the $220,000 needed to conduct a special election.

"Repealing this ordinance will allow us to reset and take the time we need to bring the community together on what solutions to our budget crisis they support," Hoy said in her motion. "Repealing the payroll tax ordinance will, I believe, be a first major step toward healing. While the looming budget deficit is bad enough  a trust deficit is an even bigger problem."

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Council voted last month to impose a .814% tax on wages for people working in Salem, regardless of where they live, as early as July 2024.

It is expected to generate $27.9 million annually and cost a person earning the average hourly rate of $29.90 the equivalent of $506.24 a year. The funds generated could only be used for community safety, which includes police services, fire, emergency medical services, 911 call services, code enforcement and unsheltered services.

After hours of testimony and deliberation, the council voted to skip sending the issue to voters and instead opted to implement it themselves. Councilors Hoy, Vanessa Nordyke, Deanna Gwyn and Jose Gonzalez voted against the payroll tax.

Mayor Chris Hoy and councilors Virginia Stapleton, Linda Nishioka, Trevor Phillips and Micki Varney voted in favor of it.

In the ensuing days, the Oregon Business & Industry, a statewide chamber of commerce and trade association, launched an effort to refer the tax to voters.

Officials with Let Salem Vote said the proposal was vague, the tax was too high, the administrative burden was significant and there was little assurance as to how the funds would be spent.

The group successfully collected more than the 3,986 verified signatures needed to qualify for the November ballot.

Meanwhile, Stapleton has worked with residents and volunteer planning and budget committee members to start a Save Salem campaign to promote a "yes" vote on the measure and, they said, prevent cuts on critical city services.

Stapleton said the group was created to show the community what is at stake if the city fails to address the nearly $30 million budget shortfall.

According to the city, a $15 million reduction would be the equivalent of decreasing services by 65 police officers, six fire stations ($2.3 million each), or all park maintenance ($9.3 million) and the library services ($6 million) combined.

During deliberations Monday, Julie Hoy questioned whether there was even a deficit in the first place and said the tax was unnecessary.

Stapleton questioned why Julie Hoy wanted to skip the public vote when she had initially pushed for a public vote during budget discussions earlier this year.

Hoy said the issue was doomed to fail.

Nordyke said public trust in the city was irreparably damaged after the council opted to pass the payroll tax.

Phillips said he intended to follow the referendum petition's call to "let Salem vote" and send the issue to voters

Mayor Chris Hoy, who previously voted in favor of the payroll tax, said it was 100% within the council's right to pass the tax and 100% within the purview of the voters to initiate a petition and refer it to the ballot.

"That's part of our democratic process," he said. "We did our part. The residents have done their part. And now it's time for the voters to vote. I think that if we don't allow that process to play out ... that undermines trust in my mind."

The motion to repeal the tax failed 6-3, with councilors Julie Hoy, Gonzalez and Gwyn voting in favor, and Chris Hoy, Nishioka, Stapleton, Varney, Phillips and Nordyke voting against.

For questions, comments and news tips, email reporter Whitney Woodworth at wmwoodworth@statesmanjournal.com, call 503-910-6616 or follow on Twitter at @wmwoodworth

This article originally appeared on Salem Statesman Journal: Effort to repeal Salem payroll tax before election fails
(Bloomberg) -- Egypt said the latest talks on Ethiopias giant Nile dam ended without a breakthrough, but vowed to press ahead with efforts to reach a binding agreement for filling and operating that it deems essential to safeguarding vital water flows.

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Two days of discussions between Egyptian, Ethiopian and Sudanese officials in Cairo did not witness any tangible change in the Ethiopian position, Egypts Ministry of Water Resources and Irrigation said in a statement late Monday.

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The talks were the first formal negotiations on the $5 billion Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam in more than a year, after African Union-led attempts to broker a solution stalled.

Egypt and Sudan, which rely on the Nile River for almost all their freshwater, have repeatedly criticized Ethiopia for taking unilateral moves in the dams operations, warning of the possible impact on downstream flows. Ethiopia sees the project on the Niles main tributary as a key part of its development goals and has sought to downplay Egypt and Sudans concerns.

Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi has described his nations water security as a red line that cant be crossed. In July, he and Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed agreed to work to conclude an agreement within four months.

Ethiopias Ministry of Foreign Affairs said Monday the delegations agreed to hold the next round of talks in its capital, Addis Ababa, in September. The parties exchanged views to reach a win-win situation, it said on X, formerly known as Twitter.

--With assistance from Fasika Tadesse.

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For residents of the Delmarva Peninsula, issues of ocean cooling or warming may not be a usual concern, but its impact on weather patterns and hurricane seasons keeps scientists busy with research.

Natural oceanic occurrences like El Nino and La Nina represent drastic changes that impact everything from fishing to weather. During El Nino, trade winds weaken and warm water is pushed back east, toward the west coast of the Americas. The result, according to the National Weather service, often brings much below normal temperatures to the mid-Atlantic states, along with increased probability for snow in winter.

Conversely, La Nina is when trade winds are even stronger than usual, pushing more warm water toward Asia. Seasonal snowfall totals for much of the Mid-Atlantic, southern and central Appalachians and the northeast coast is significantly lower during these events.

Dr. Meng Xia, an ocean specialist at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore explains data sets concerning oceanography trends amid changing sea temperatures to research students.

This week, Tropical Storm Idalia is projected to make landfall along the western coast of Florida and then moving northeast across the state and the southeastern part of Georgia. It is forecast to become a major hurricane before it reaches the Gulf Coast of Florida, according to the latest advisory from the National Hurricane Center.

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The hurricane center said Idalia is expected to bring flash flooding to areas across the west coast of Florida, the Florida Panhandle and southern Georgia Tuesday into Wednesday. Get all the latest on Idalia here.

The Climate Prediction Center for the National Weather Service notes El Nino is anticipated to continue through the Northern Hemisphere winter with greater than 95% chance from December 2023 through February 2024.

More salt water resistant crops Farmers battle climate change, sea level rise with new assist from UMES research

Stronger hurricanes for the Mid-Atlantic?

A snow plow drives along Ocean Gateway during a winter storm Monday, Jan. 3, 2022, in Salisbury, Maryland.

"El Nino can also have a positive influence on weather to North America like suppressing Atlantic hurricane formations. During an El Nino year the intensity of Atlantic hurricanes was found to be weaker than during a neutral year or a La Nina year," said Meng Xia, PH.D., a professor in the Department of Natural Sciences at University of Maryland Eastern Shore. "There were also significant differences found in hurricane intensity between El Nino and La Nina years,"

Episodes of El Nino and La Nina typically last nine to 12 months but can sometimes last for years.

According to Xia, the incidence of hurricanes is higher during the neutral phase, or when neither El Nino nor La Nina are in effect, than during El Nino. Although hurricanes occur more often during La Nina episodes, significant tropical weather events have occurred during the neutral phase.

"For example, the record shattering 2005 hurricane season that included Katrina and Rita occurred during the neutral phase. Hurricane Andrew, the most destructive United States hurricane of record, made landfall along the Gulf coast during a neutral phase of the El Nino/Southern Oscillation in 1992," Xia said.

Impact of El Nino and La Nina events on tornadoes

Xia noted the connections between El Nino and La Nina events and tornado development over the Deep South are not entirely clear. However, preliminary research indicates a relationship between the shift among the two and the occurrence of strong to violent tornado outbreaks over the Southeast United States.

In the case of F2 and greater tornadoes, more appear to occur during La Nina months.

More on Eastern Shore flooding Will Crisfield be ready for next big storm? City seeks federal funds to prevent flooding

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration has also argued elements of much contested climate change impacts have not made conditions any better in terms of inclement and severe weather events.

"Simulations conducted for the Coupled Model Inter-comparison Project found a near doubling in the frequency of future extreme La Nina events, from one in every 23 years to one in every 13 years," Xia said. "Approximately 75% of the increase occurs in years following extreme El Nino events, thus projecting more frequent swings between opposite extremes from one year to the next."

A reasonable 2023 hurricane outlook?

The eye of Tropical Storm Idalia could pass over the Cape Fear region around 7 a.m. Thursday.

In May, NOAAs outlook for the 2023 Atlantic hurricane season, which goes from June 1 to November 30, predicted a 40% chance of a near-normal season, a 30% chance of an above-normal season and a 30% chance of a below-normal season.

It forecasted a range of 12 to 17 total named storms with winds of 39 mph or higher.

"Of those, 5 to 9 could become hurricanes (winds of 74 mph or higher), including 1 to 4 major hurricanes with category 3, 4 or 5; with winds of 111 mph or higher. NOAA has a 70% confidence in these ranges. The upcoming Atlantic hurricane season is expected to be less active than recent years, due to competing factors  some that suppress storm development and some that fuel it  driving this year's overall forecast for a near-normal season," the report said.

The agency added NOAAs outlook is for overall seasonal activity and is not a landfall forecast.

This summer, NOAA will implement a series of upgrades and improvements. NOAA will expand the capacity of its operational supercomputing system by 20%. This increase in computing capability will enable NOAA to improve and run more complex forecast models, including significant model upgrades this hurricane season.

More on past hurricane activity This Chesapeake Bay island changed course after hurricane devastation. What it can teach others

This article originally appeared on Salisbury Daily Times: What El Nino and La Nina ocean patterns mean for hurricane season
El Paso is preparing to lead the charge across the border region in addressing the growing climate crisis, which scorched vast swaths of the planet this summer and is only expected to worsen in the coming years.

U.S. Rep. Veronica Escobar , D-El Paso, launched her Climate Crisis+ Advisory Committee, a collective of Borderland community leaders, county representatives, utilities, environmental activists and other stakeholders, two years ago.

The group drafted its complete framework, released earlier this month, after nearly a year meeting with local and national organizations to learn about climate solutions.

"The Biden administration is absolutely committed to making sure communities and Americans have access to funding to address the climate crisis," Escobar said. "At the same time, at a local level, I decided it was important to bring stakeholders together so that we could talk through steps the community needed to begin taking to address the climate crisis. And this was separate from what the federal government was doing  what should we be doing locally to address this catastrophe?"

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More: Here's how $19.2M in federal funding will be used for 15 projects in El Paso

The committee's framework, which puts forth a number of plans to address air quality, water resiliency and energy sustainability, was also used as the foundation for Escobar's Climate Adaptation Plan (CAP) Act, which directs the Environmental Protection Agency to establish a grant program for local and tribal governments to develop their own climate action plans.

"This work product is theirs and it provides a roadmap for what the public sector and the private sector should be thinking about as they commit to do something about the climate crisis," Escobar said of the final product. "This is not a federal government or a state or local government issue alone, it will take the private sector and it will take individuals."

"Each and every one of these stakeholders took significant time and energy to be a part of a committee that was going to focus initially on this framework," she added.

In all, more than 40 representatives from civic groups, activist organizations, political offices and businesses make up the committee, including El Paso Chamber CEO Andrea Hutchins, El Paso County Commissioner David Stout, El Paso Electric Sustainability Officer Jessica Christianson, Texas Gas Regional Manager of Community Relations Liz O'Hare and El Paso Zoo Education Curator Rick LoBello, as well as representatives from Sunrise El Paso, Eco El Paso and the Sierra Club.

But for committee member and El Paso Climate and Sustainability Officer Nicole Ferrini, Escobar's committee is only a "very necessary first step" in the fight against climate change on the border.

Ferrini: City 'running at 100 miles-per-hour' on climate action

The task of tackling climate change in the border region, an area uniquely susceptible to the worst aspects of the crisis, is a big task and Ferrini said El Paso will be at the helm.

"We're absolutely running at 100 miles-per-hour at this point," Ferrini said.

First on the list is using the $5 million El Paso voters narrowly approved last year to create and implement a Climate Action Plan as part of the city's Community Progress Bond vote last November.

El Paso Climate and Sustainability Officer Nicole Ferrini speaks during a news conference on Tuesday, Aug. 15, 2023, to announce efforts being taken across the region to address the growing climate crisis.

"We're going to have our first finalized climate action plan for the city by the end of 2025," Ferrini said.

Part of that money will also go toward establishing climate action pilot projects in the city, she noted, in an effort to find out what can be done right away to begin stemming the worst effects of the climate crisis.

Additionally, the city is expecting $1 million from the EPA that will require it to take the lead among border communities.

"That's everything from the village of Vinton to the unincorporated areas of Hudspeth County," Ferrini said.

Beyond that, Ferrini said there is currently a request for proposals out for climate consultants, though details are scarce at this point.

More: What to know about Texas Gov. Greg Abbott's floating buoy barrier along Rio Grande

"We're expecting to award that later this fall," Ferrini said. "Once that happens, and once we actually get the grant from the EPA ... we're going to first convene all of these partners once again and say, 'We understand what the challenges are ... we've got to start identifying action that we can take forward immediately."

And the work doesn't stop at the Texas border  Ferrini noted that the city is also submitting for a $400 million Solar-For-All grant, which could "transform energy use" across West Texas and southern New Mexico.

"The city of El Paso has taken the lead in wrangling the region as a group and really saying, because we have the staff and the capacity, the ability to do this, we actually have a climate department, which is something our sister communities don't have, but we realize we can't do this without them, so we're really leading the work to bring those dollars in broadly," Ferrini said.

And while the debate surrounding climate change continues to be mired in partisan ideologies, Ferrini said the issue is "so much deeper than that."

"Climate action is important because it impacts every single El Pasoan right in their household," she said. "This isn't about how healthy you are or aren't, it's about how many opportunities you have in a 21st century emerging community."

This article originally appeared on El Paso Times: El Paso leading charge on climate action across border region
Elon Musk's Tesla almost ran a red light at a Palo Alto intersection while demoing FSD software.

A video appeared to show Musk taking the wheel after the software misread a traffic signal.

The billionaire live-streamed the drive on X, formerly known as Twitter.

Elon Musk's Tesla almost ran a red light at a Palo Alto intersection during a live demo of an unreleased version of Tesla's Full Self-Driving software. The drive was live-streamed on X, formerly known as Twitter.

The video appears to show Musk grabbing the steering wheel after the software misread a traffic signal and tried to accelerate at a red light.

"This is our first intervention because the car should be going straight," the billionaire said after halting the car around 20 minutes into the video. "This is why we've not released it to the public yet," he added.

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Representatives for Tesla did not immediately respond to Insider's request for comment, made outside normal working hours.

The video demonstrated v12 of Tesla's FSD technology, which has not yet been released to consumers. The software appeared to perform safely for the rest of the 45-minute video, navigating around the city and tackling roundabouts during the drive.

Tesla has been testing its Full Self-Driving software for several years, but progress has been stalled by lawsuits and investigations aimed at probing the tech's safety.

The software's beta version was released to some Tesla owners in 2020 and is now available to anyone who pays for it. The beta version is in around 400,000 Teslas, according to a company announcement posted early this year.

During the video, the Tesla CEO may have violated California law by holding his phone during the live-streamed drive. When contacted about the potential violation, the Palo Alto Police Department told The Verge they wouldn't be issuing a fine because police didn't see the incident themselves.

Read the original article on Business Insider
Eminem performs during the halftime show during the NFL Super Bowl 56 football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and the Los Angeles Rams Sunday, Feb. 13, 2022, in Inglewood, Calif. | Steve Luciano, Associated Press

Eminem has asked Republican presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy to stop using his music after the entrepreneur performed the rappers song Lose Yourself earlier this month at the Iowa state fair.

Attorneys for BMI, a music rights company, said Eminem had removed his music from the companys license with Ramaswamys campaign, according to a letter obtained by Billboard.

BMI will consider any performance of the Eminem works by the Vivek 2024 campaign from this date forward to be a material breach, the letter reads.

BMI licenses songs to groups including political campaigns, but according to the letter, Eminem exercised the companys Political Entities license, which gives songwriters and publishers the ability to pull their music from blanket license agreements with political groups.

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BMI has received a communication from Marshall B. Mathers, III, professionally known as Eminem, objecting to the Vivek Ramaswamy campaigns use of Eminems musical compositions and requesting that BMI remove all Eminem Works from the Agreement, the letter reads. This letter serves as notice that the Eminem Works are excluded from the Agreement effective immediately.

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Politicians who dont share the same political views as the musicians whose songs they play at campaign events often deal with criticism from artists. Former President Donald Trump, for example, has received requests from groups including the Rolling Stones and Aerosmith to stop playing their music at his rallies. For musicians who licensed away the rights to play their music, though, there was sometimes no recourse.

Licenses like the one mentioned by BMI in the letter to Ramaswamys campaign represent an effort to give musicians more control over how their music is used for political purposes. BMI and ASCAP, another music rights company, now offer licenses specifically for political entities that give musicians the right to pull individual songs from a political groups blanket licensing deal, according to Billboard.

On its website, BMI says its Political Entities license authorizes the public performance of over 20.6 million musical works in BMIs repertoire at events and functions hosted by political campaigns and organizations.

BMI says the blanket license ensures that political entities are in compliance with copyright law wherever events may occur throughout the duration of the campaign and explained how it handles objections from songwriters or publishers.

The license includes a provision that permits BMI to exclude a musical work(s) from the license should we receive an objection from a songwriter or publisher regarding its use by the licensee, the group says. If that occurs, BMI will notify the licensee that the particular musical work has been removed from license and is no longer authorized by BMI to perform the musical work.
The ongoing search for a permanent superintendent of Hinsdale School District 86, received an update during Aug. 24s Board of Education regular action meeting, as board members agreed to pursue a confidential search.

The decision was made at the recommendation of Kevin OMara, president of School Exec Connect, an education focused search firm based in Oak Park.

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A confidential search would leave applicants anonymous until brought to the board for consideration, OMara said during the presentation.

We would recommend a confidential search only because, to get the best out there, theyre probably in sitting positions right now, OMara said. We want them to feel comfortable moving forward in the process.

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Unless I hear or see an objection I would like to move forward with a confidential search, OMara said to the board to which no comment or concern was voiced.

The decision to run a confidential search is not uncommon, what was not clear, however, was whether the names of finalists would be made public before the board reaches a decision.

OMara did not respond to requests for comment by the time of publication.

Also discussed during the presentation was the application process for applicants already working with the district; again the Bboard followed OMaras recommendation to hold all applicants to the same process despite their connections to District 86.

They take the same steps, they provide the same paperwork, they go through the same vetting and interview process, OMara said. Ive worked with boards before where they might say I know this person theyre really good I want to make sure theyre a finalist, I think that defeats the purpose of our process.

Moving forward, board president Catherine Greenspon and Interim Superintendent Dr. Linda Yonke agreed to serve as the primary point of contact for the search firm for the remainder of the process.

Yonke was hired as co-superintendent alongside Dr. Raymond Lechner, to serve as interims for the 2023-24 school year, following a contentious departure by former Superintendent Tammy Prentiss, who agreed to leave the position in June.
Eminem (left) and Vivek Ramaswamy (right). Theo Wargo via Getty Images; Demetrius Freeman/The Washington Post via Getty Images

Vivek Ramaswamy's days as a rapping presidential candidate may be over.

Ramaswamy's campaign received a request from rap star Eminem to stop using his music.

Ramaswamy has previously said that Eminem's "Lose Yourself" was his life's theme song.

Rap legend Eminem wants the GOP presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy to stop rapping to his music on the campaign trail.

Music licencer BMI sent a cease-and-desist letter to Ramaswamy's campaign, asking them to stop using the rapper's songs, according to a copy obtained by the Daily Mail and CNN.

The letter, sent on August 23, said BMI has "received communications from Marshall B. Mathers, III, professionally known as Eminem, objecting to the Vivek Ramaswamy campaign's use of Eminem's musical compositions."

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Ramaswamy was seen rapping to Eminem's hit song "Lose Yourself" at the Iowa State Fair on August 12. The track was a single Eminem dropped in 2002 for the movie "8 Mile."

Ramaswamy told The Harvard Crimson in 2006 that "Lose Yourself" was the theme song of his life.

Ramaswamy used to perform under the stage name Da Vek  his rapper alter ego  while at Harvard. He was a warm-up act for Busta Rhymes when the rapper performed at Harvard in 2004.

Tricia McLaughlin, Ramaswamy's campaign spokesperson, told CNN they will comply with Eminem's request to stop using his music.

"Vivek just got on the stage and cut loose. To the American people's chagrin, we will have to leave the rapping to the real Slim Shady," McLaughlin told CNN.

But it looks like Ramaswamy himself isn't particularly upset with Eminem's request.

"Will The REAL Slim Shady Please Stand Up? He didn't just say what I think he did, did he? @Eminem," Ramaswamy quipped in a post on X, formerly Twitter, on Monday.

In February, Ramaswamy announced his candidacy for the GOP presidential nomination. The biotech entrepreneur has styled himself as a conservative firebrand, and differentiated himself from a crowded field of candidates after his breakout performance at the GOP debate last week.

Ramaswamy is not the only politician who's gotten into trouble for using Eminem's music.

In 2014, the New Zealand National Party used a version of "Lose Yourself" in a campaign advertisement. Eminem later filed a copyright infringement suit against the party and they were asked to pay more than $400,000 to Eminem's publisher.

Eminem, however, did allow Joe Biden to use "Lose Yourself" in a campaign advertisement for the 2020 presidential elections. Eminem also promoted the advertisement in a post on X.

Representatives for Eminem, Ramaswamy, and BMI did not immediately respond to requests for comment from Insider sent outside regular business hours.

Read the original article on Business Insider
Rapper Eminem asked Republican presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy to stop using his music on the campaign trail, according to the rappers music licenser.

In an Aug. 23 letter obtained by the Daily Mail, music licenser Broadcast Music Inc. (BMI) told Ramaswamys campaign lawyer it was contacted by Eminem objecting to the Vivek Ramaswamys campaign use of Eminems musical compositions (the Eminem Works) and requesting that BMI remove all Eminem Works from the Agreement.

BMI confirmed to The Hill a letter was sent to Ramaswmays campaign, and it has since removed all of Eminems musical works from the Vivek 2024 campaign license.

Viveks campaign and BMI had entered into a music licensing agreement for Eminems music on May 24, according to the letter. A representative for BMI said the letter serves as notice that the Eminem Works are excluded from the Agreement effective immediately, and any performance of Eminems works by Viveks campaign will be considered a material breach of the agreement.

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The cease-and-desist letter comes after Ramaswamy went viral at the Iowa State Fair earlier this month for singing along to Eminems Lose Yourself, which he told Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds (R) was his favorite walkout song.

In a statement shared with The Hill, Ramaswamys campaign said Vivek just got on the stage and cut loose.

To the American peoples chagrin, we will have to leave the rapping to the real slim shady, the campaign statement said.

In an interview with The New York Times earlier this month, Ramaswamy addressed his love for Eminem and said he used to perform under the stage name Da Vek the Rapper while an undergrad at Harvard University.

I did not grow up in the circumstances he did, but the idea of being an underdog, people having low expectations of you, that part speaks to me, Ramaswamy, whose parents emigrated from India, told The New York Times.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KFOR.com Oklahoma City.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) on Tuesday announced a new rule that could curtail protections from more than 60 percent of protected lands, in response to a May Supreme Court ruling that curtailed which waters are subject to federal Clean Water Act protections.

The revised Waters of the United States (WOTUS) rule breaks from longstanding federal waters protections to require that protected wetlands have a clearer link to waterways like oceans and rivers.

EPA Administrator Michael Regan said in a statement that the agency had no choice but to narrow the rules scope following the Sackett v. EPA decision, in which the Supreme Courts conservative majority wrote that protections could only apply where there is a continuous surface connection to a protected body of water.

The decision marked the second consecutive term in which the court sided against federal environmental protections. In 2022, it ruled against an Obama-era EPA plan that Biden sought to continue, which would transition power plants off of fossil fuels under the Clean Air Act.

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Weve moved quickly to finalize amendments to the definition of waters of the United States to provide a clear path forward that adheres to the Supreme Courts ruling. EPA will never waver from our responsibility to ensure clean water for all, Regan said in a statement. Moving forward, we will do everything we can with our existing authorities and resources to help communities, states, and Tribes protect the clean water upon which we all depend.

The court handed down its Sackett v. EPA ruling months after the agency finalized an earlier WOTUS rule that significantly strengthened Trump-era regulations. Republican governors in January called for the administration to delay implementation of that earlier rule until the court could issue its decision.

The National Wildlife Federation called the new rule inadequate in a statement, characterizing it as a consequence of the courts positions on environmental protections.

This rule spells out how the Sackett decision has undermined our ability to prevent the destruction of our nations wetlands, which protect drinking water, absorb floods and provide habitat for wildlife, Jim Murphy, the National Wildlife Federations director of legal advocacy, said in a statement. Congress needs to step up to protect the water we drink, our wildlife, and our way of life. In the meantime, it will be up to the states to fill the gaping hole in water protections created by the Supreme Court.

But opponents of the original rule were displeased with the new proposal as well, with Sen. Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.V.), the top Republican on the Senate Environment Committee, saying it operates on the same principles the court rejected.

Im disappointed this rushed rule lacks public outreach and real transparency, results in a definition that is at odds with the law, and will likely be rejected once again in the courts, Capito said in a statement.

 Updated at 3:16 p.m.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Erika Girardi, left, and Chris Psaila. Psaila was charged by federal prosecutors in 2017 with swindling more than $800,000 from Girardi, the wife of Tom Girardi. Psaila sued Girardi, her two assistants, American Express and current and former U.S. Secret Service agents on Tuesday. (Wally Skalij; Francine Orr / Los Angeles Times)

The co-owner of a Hollywood costume firm filed a lawsuit Tuesday against reality TV star Erika Girardi, two of her staff members, current and former U.S. Secret Service agents and American Express, alleging corruption among federal law enforcement to benefit Girardi and her once-influential husband, former Los Angeles attorney Tom Girardi.

In the 70-page suit, Christopher Psaila accuses Erika Girardi and her estranged husband of having weaponized the Secret Service to maliciously prosecute him in 2017 to secure a $787,000 refund from American Express at a time when the Girardi family was "in desperate financial straits."

Read more: The Girardis, the Secret Service and wire fraud claims that nearly ruined a Hollywood designer

Psaila is the co-owner of costume merchant Marco Marco, which has designed outfits for a variety of pop stars. He alleged that Erika Girardi, along with her assistant and choreographer, knew she had purchased and received scores of costumes and services from the firm in 2015 and 2016. But they falsely claimed to federal agents and to American Express that the store's charges to her credit card were unauthorized, according to the suit.

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Pasaila also contends that the Secret Service conducted a reckless investigation into Erika Girardi's claims and deliberately ignored facts that would help exonerate him. In the suit, he alleges that current and former Secret Service agents concealed evidence that would have either prevented his indictment or led to an acquittal at trial.

The case draws on an investigation by The Times published in February that documented Girardis friendship with the head of the Secret Services office in L.A., Rob Savage, and the free legal work that Girardi provided Savage.

The Times reported how Girardi began representing Savage in a pending lawsuit against Volkswagen over a defect in his minivan. When Girardi could not secure a better settlement and his efforts fizzled, he personally paid Savage at least $7,500. At the time, agents under Savage were investigating Psaila.

Savage is one of the three current or former Secret Service officials named as defendants in the lawsuit, which casts Girardi's legal work as a "bribe and quid pro quo" to Savage.

This case reflects the corruption of the federal judicial system, Psailas lawsuit states. The Secret Service and United States should have never presented the case to the grand jury for indictment, and never proceeded with the prosecution.

A spokesperson for the Secret Service declined to answer questions, citing a policy of not commenting on pending litigation.

Evan Borges, an attorney representing Erika Girardi, dismissed the lawsuit as a ploy timed with his client's new Las Vegas residency and suggested the evidence of corruption was thin: "Tom Girardis representation of a single federal agent in an unrelated civil lawsuit."

"Federal prosecutors made the decision to charge plaintiff with crimes, no one else," Borges said. "The notion that Erika controlled the U.S. Government, or for that matter a Fortune 100 company such as American Express, is fantasy."

Erika Girardi told The Times earlier this year that she remained convinced that Psaila had falsely billed her for hundreds of thousands of dollars.

"In no way did I pull a scam to get $760,000 to help anybody get this money," she said earlier this year. Erika Girardi noted that as part of the criminal investigation, she had worn a wire and conducted an undercover recording of Psaila.

On the recording, Erika Girardi is joined by her assistant and her choreographer in a meeting at Psaila's office. Confronted with accusations of false charges, Psaila acknowledged excess billing of just over $100,000 that he blamed on a bookkeeper who he said, falsely, had been responsible for running the cards, according to a copy of the recording reviewed by The Times.

In the lawsuit Tuesday, Psaila's attorneys allege that the covert recording was an entrapment attempt and insist that the audio "reveals nothing more than an innocent merchant attempting to follow a well-known rule of retail business: 'The customer is always right.'"

A spokesperson for American Express told The Times that the company did not initiate the criminal probe of Psaila, adding, "We followed our regular processes and procedures throughout this investigation as we dealt with law enforcement. ... We did not play any role in the criminal investigation of Mr. Psaila or his business other than responding to inquiries from law enforcement."

Savage, who retired in 2018, did not respond to a request for comment on the suit. He previously denied any exchange of favors, saying via email that the credit card inquiry and his minivan case with Tom Girardi were completely unrelated. Savage said he had maintained a friendship with the former lawyer, saying he occasionally dined with Mr. Girardi always as a friend and within ethics guidelines.

Savage said in the earlier email that he introduced Erika Girardi to one of his deputies so she could report fraudulent credit card charges, but he said the deputy "managed the investigation without any involvement from me." He asserted he was not "directly" involved in the indictment.

At the time, Savage also acknowledged that that deputy and other agents on the case did not know he had hired Girardi for a personal legal matter, nor did he inform his supervisors about it.

Psaila was indicted on nine counts in 2017, including wire fraud and aggravated identity theft. But he insisted on his innocence and put together a dossier of text messages, receipts and photos that he said substantiated the charges on the Girardis American Express card.

In 2021, federal prosecutors quietly moved to dismiss the case against him.

The lawsuit filed Tuesday includes two dozen pages of photos, text messages, and billing records that Psaila said prove "beyond all doubt" that he and Marco Marco provided the costumes and services that the indictment claimed were phony or unauthorized. Psaila's suit asserts that he has similar proof for all of the transactions that were the basis of the refund issued to the Girardis by American Express.

Psaila's suit notes that American Express only reversed the charge on one transaction  for $4,500  and that to this day, Marco Marco and Psaila are free to use American Express at their business.

The lawsuit seeks $18.2 million in general damages along with unspecified punitive damages. Psaila also filed a separate claim Tuesday against the Secret Service for $75 million.

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
(Bloomberg) -- European Commission Vice President Valdis Dombrovskis would be ready to continue for a third term in Brussels should he be backed by the next Latvian prime minister, he said in an interview on Latvian TV.

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If Europe and Latvia provide that possibility, then of course I would be ready to continue to work in those directions, he said on Tuesday.

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Latvian Prime Minister Krisjanis Karinss resignation this month has raised speculation that he may seek a place at the Commission, though he has batted away questions about his future ambitions. The nomination will likely fall to the next government and prime minister.

President Edgars Rinkevics on Aug. 24 appointed Welfare Minister Evika Silina to form a new government.

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Adults-only zones on flights will be trialled later this year by one European airline, in a move that could mean getting stuck next to a screaming baby is a thing of the past.

Corendon Dutch Airlines, the sister company to Turkey-based Corendon Airlines, will begin testing this approach on flights between Amsterdam and the Caribbean island of Curacao from 3 November.

The Only Adult zone will feature 102 seats at the front of Airbus A350-900, including nine with extra legroom.

It will be separated from the rest of the plane by walls and curtains, which the airline said will create a shielded environment that contributes to a calm and relaxed flight.

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It added that it will also have a positive effect on parents will young children, giving them peace of mind that their crying baby or boisterous toddler wont be bothering those who have a particular aversion to flying alongside youngsters.

Picking your seat to ensure your cabin neighbours are aged over 16 comes with an additional cost, however. Reserving a seat in the child-free space will cost 45 for one flight, rising to 100 for the extra-large seats.

On board our flights, we always strive to respond to the different needs of our customers. We are also the first Dutch airline to introduce the Only Adult zone, because we are trying to appeal to travellers looking for some extra peace of mind during their flight, said Atilay Uslu, chairman and founder of Corendon.

We also believe this can have a positive effect on parents travelling with small children. They can enjoy the flight without worrying if their children make more noise.

Corendon isnt the first airline to take this step. Scoot, the low-budget subsidiary of Singaporean Airlines, offers Scoot-in-Silence cabins, which are only available for passengers aged 12 and above.

In May, an influencer sparked a parenting debate about spoiling children after revealing that he and his wife sit in first class on planes while they pay for their children to be seated in economy.

On a flight in late 2022, a man ignited conversions about travelling etiquette after documenting his irritation with a baby who cried continuously on his 29-hour flight to Berlin.
Residents lean out of their houses next to a flooded street in Havana, Cuba, on Tuesday, after Tropical Storm Idalia's heavy winds and rain caused widespread flooding and power outages in western Cuba. Idalia has strengthened to a hurricane and is expected to make landfall in Florida on Wednesday. Photo by Ernesto Mastracusa/EPA-EFE

Aug. 29 (UPI) -- Hurricane Idalia, which struck western Cuba as a tropical storm, strengthened to a Category 2 on Tuesday and barreled toward Florida's west coast where it is forecast to make landfall as an "extremely dangerous" hurricane on Wednesday.

Scores of businesses shut down Tuesday and thousands evacuated.

Idalia is expected to make landfall as a Category 4 hurricane with "life-threatening storm surge" on Wednesday, as its path shifted west to Taylor County.

"If you are under an evacuation order, now is the time to leave," Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis told reporters in his latest update Tuesday.

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"You still have a couple of hours to pack up and get on the road before conditions deteriorate, but by late tonight you will need to hunker down and stay in place," DeSantis warned. "If you choose to stay, first responders will not be able to get to you until after the storm has passed."

A flooded street in Havana, Cuba on Tuesday inundates vehicles after Tropical Storm Idalia blew through. The Institute of Meteorology (Insmet) reported winds of up to 82 mph with widespread power outages as Hurricane Idalia took aim at Florida. Photo by Ernesto Mastracusa/EPA-EFE

"This storm is going to hit tomorrow morning, you will start seeing effects in parts of the state later today," DeSantis said.

Mandatory evacuation orders are in effect for parts of Pinellas, Hillsborough, Manatee, and Hernando counties, in addition to Pasco County where storm surge is the biggest concern with water from the Gulf of Mexico and heavy rainfall.

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis meets with county Emergency Response Teams about their plans for Hurricane Idalia on Tuesday. Photo courtesy of Gov. Ron DeSantis/Facebook

Governor Ron DeSantis Gives Update on Hurricane Idalia From Tallahassee Florida https://t.co/nmUHx3R6HR Ron DeSantis (@GovRonDeSantis) August 29, 2023

The city of Tampa, Fla., prepares for the arrival of Idalia on Monday. Photo courtesy of City of Tampa/Facebook

Hernando County, the St. Petersburg-Clearwater-Tampa metropolitan area, was also given a mandatory evacuation order Tuesday morning.

"If you have to evacuate, please do so," Hernando County emergency management director David DeCarlo urged. "If you choose to stay on Hernando Beach, Pine Island, Aripeka -- there's going to be a chance we're not going to be able to get you at a certain point for rescue."

DeSantis has suspended all tolls in the evacuation zones, as Uber announced it would provide free trips to state-approved evacuation centers. Those counties eligible for the free rides are Alachua, Citrus, Collier, Dixie, Lake, Marion, Nassau, Orange, Pasco, Polk, Sarasota, Sumter, Union and Volusia.

As the Tampa Bay area faces dangerous storm surge, high winds and heavy rain, Tampa International Airport announced it suspended all commercial operations Tuesday morning, adding that the airport hopes to reopen Thursday.

"The closure will allow the airport and its partners to prepare the airfield and terminals, including the security of jet bridges, ground equipment and any remaining aircraft before Idalia's expected landfall early Wednesday as a potential major hurricane," the airport said as it warned travelers the terminals are closed and are "not equipped to function as a shelter."

According to the airline tracking website Flight Aware, 83% of the flights leaving Tampa International Airport were canceled on Tuesday, as were 87% of flights that were scheduled to fly into the airport. Any flights allowed into or out of the airport are strictly cargo.

Amtrak canceled twelve East Coast routes to and from the Orlando and Miami areas on Tuesday and Wednesday, in advance of Hurricane Idalia.

While Hurricane Idalia is impacting cargo operations at Port Canaveral, it is not affecting the cruise ship schedule. According to the U.S. Coast Guard, two cargo ships carrying lumber will remain offshore until after the storm passes. One cruise ship, Royal Caribbean's Oasis of the Seas was in port Tuesday and scheduled to leave Tuesday evening. No cruise ships are scheduled to dock Wednesday.

DeSantis said the state is coordinating with electrical companies to build an army of 25,000 linemen who will respond to power outages once the storm has passed.

Florida also dispatched its Urban Search and Rescue teams to the Gulf Coast and the central part of the state in anticipation of rescue efforts. Along with the equipment, the crews are bringing K-9 units to help search for victims in fallen structures.

"You have to rely on the equipment you brought in so resources can be brought in after things have been made safe," said Miami Fire Rescue Capt. Ignatius Carroll, who is going into the area. "We're prepared for that, but we're also hoping that a lot of people heed the warnings to evacuate the areas that are going to be affected by the storm.

"We have high-water vehicles that allow us to traverse through any kind of terrain-flooded areas. The boats will allow us to get to areas that are completely flooded or washed away, where the only way you can access it is by boat."

AdventHealth said it would evacuate its hospital in Tarpon Springs, less than two miles from the Gulf of Mexico, on Tuesday, moving patients, and relocating more than 60 patients to other hospitals by noon.

"Given our location and proximity to the Gulf of Mexico, along with the projected storm surge of 5 to 7 feet and mandatory evacuation orders, we are evacuating our AdventHealth North Pinellas hospital in Tarpon Springs out of an abundance of caution for the safety of our patients, visitors and team members," AdventHealth officials said.

Lake County, part of the Kissimmee-Orlando metropolitan area, said it will continue bus service until 8 p.m.

Florida State University, New College of Florida, the University of North Florida and the University of South Florida all announced their closures.

Late Monday, United Launch Alliance announced it had delayed the planned launch of its Atlas V rocket, which has a payload from the National Reconnaissance Office, from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station.

"Out of an abundance of caution for personnel safety, a critical national security payload and the approaching [Hurricane] Idalia, the team made the decision to return the rocket and payload to the vertical integration facility," ULA said.

Georgia is also preparing for Hurricane Idalia as Gov. Brian Kemp declared a state of emergency Tuesday in anticipation of heavy winds, rain, flash flooding and power outages in the south and coastal regions of the state. The National Weather Service warns tornadoes are also possible.

"We are taking every precaution ahead of Hurricane Idalia's landfall and I am taking this additional executive action to ensure state assets are ready to respond," Kemp said Tuesday.

To ensure we are prepared to handle whatever #Idalia may bring, I have declared a State of Emergency and instructed state agencies to take proper precautions for its potential impact. Continue to monitor the storm and pay careful attention to updates from trusted news sources. pic.twitter.com/agStmiEZ85 Governor Brian P. Kemp (@GovKemp) August 29, 2023

Savannah Mayor Van Johnson announced a curfew from 6 p.m. Wednesday until 6 a.m. Thursday, as Brunswick Mayor Cosby Johnson issued a shelter in place order beginning at 6 a.m. Wednesday.

As evacuations and preparations continue with Hurricane Idalia closing in on Florida, surfers up and down the East Coast flocked to the beach Tuesday to take advantage of the growing waves, according to Surfline which posted live views of the waves and called it a "swell event."
First United Methodist Church of Oklahoma City, 131 NW 4, and Church of the Servant, 14343 N MacArthur, have each had their disaffiliation cases considered in Oklahoma County District Court.

Both cases stemmed from a special provision that was added to the United Methodist Church's Book of Discipline in 2019 by the denomination's General Conference. Known as Paragraph 2553, the special provision was approved to give a "gracious exit" to churches in disagreement over human sexuality. As part of this special provision, churches wishing to exit have until Dec. 31 to take part in a special disaffiliation process allowing them to sever ties and take their church properties and assets with them.

More: What we know: Oklahoma churches seeking to cut ties with United Methodist denomination

Oklahoma County District Court Judge Aletia Timmons ruled in favor of First Church and Church of the Servant in their separate cases. The Oklahoma United Methodist Conference is appealing Timmons' ruling regarding First Church and plans are being made to file an appeal against the judge's ruling in the Church of the Servant case.

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Here's what we have learned from testimony in both church cases.

45-47 Oklahoma churches are in discernment/disaffiliation process

There are between 45 and 47 Oklahoma churches across the state currently in various stages of the discernment/disaffiliation process, with an eye on possibly having disaffiliation requests ratified at a special Oklahoma United Methodist Conference meeting set for Oct. 13-14. The number of disaffiliating-seeking churches was provided through the testimony of two conference leaders, Oklahoma United Methodist Bishop Jimmy Nunn and the Rev. Tish Malloy, the conference's director of transitional ministries. So far, 84 churches already have disaffiliated from the Oklahoma Conference, and Nunn has said the October meeting will be the final opportunity for churches to end their affiliation with the United Methodist Church under the Paragraph 2553 provision.

Testimony revealed possibility of moving conference office

Malloy said conference leaders have previously discussed moving the Oklahoma United Methodist Conference office to a local church, in light of the fact that Oklahoma Conference will be "smaller," meaning the number of churches in the conference has decreased due to disaffiliations. First Church and Church of the Servant leaders felt this testimony was particularly revealing because the churches' lawsuits against the conference were filed based on their claims that their houses of worship were being unfairly targeted and prevented from taking key steps toward disaffiliation  all because conference leaders hoped to seize the churches' valuable property.

In his testimony in the First Church case, the Rev. Derrek Belase, the conference's director of connectional ministries, said he and some other conference leaders had been concerned that "our downtown witness is shifting," but the conference was not planning to close First Church, seize the property or expel its congregation. A spokesman for the conference pushed back at this idea, saying there has been no official discussion about moving the conference office.

More: Future for First Church uncertain after Oklahoma Supreme Court grants emergency stay

Superintendents have played key roles on votes

Decisions by Oklahoma United Methodist Conference district superintendents have played a key role in both the First Church and Church of the Servant cases. In the Church of the Servant case, the Rev. Sam Powers, Heartland District superintendent, was accused of being biased against the disaffiliation process. He testified that he did not agree with the disaffiliations and that his mindset was bent on remaining United Methodist but he treated Church of the Servant fairly. Notably, Bishop Nunn said he supported Powers. Powers disagreed with Church of the Servant's assertion that the congregation did not have a second disaffiliation vote because they had a vote on Sept. 11, 2022, that failed to meet the required two-thirds majority for disaffiliation and then, they had a "vote of reconsideration" held on the same day, which also failed to meet the required majority by two votes. Powers also said two Church of the Servant pastors told him on separate occasions that the disaffiliation vote in 2022 had been harmful to the congregation.

In the First Church case, the Rev. Victor McCullough, former Crossroads District superintendent, set a date for the church's disaffiliation vote before he and Nunn ultimately postponed the meeting in order to conduct a study on the church's viability. First Church pointed out that McCullough's decision to postpone the vote after already setting a date for it a violated the disaffiliation agreement that the conference leaders themselves had set up for the churches. Pushing back, conference leaders said they had a right to postpone First Church's disaffiliation vote.

First United Methodist Church of Oklahoma City members participate in a prayer march in July around their church building at 131 NW 4.

Some of church apportionments go to superintendents' salaries

Testimony by conference leaders included information about what is paid through church apportionments. Church of the Servant attorneys and First Church attorneys made a point to note that the apportionments that churches pay into the conference fund the salaries of district superintendents, who play a key role in the disaffiliation process. As such, they said, the churches should expect fair and unbiased treatment from district superintendents in the disaffiliation process.

Sunday school group left church over 'ethos' statement

Jane Johnson, a Church of the Servant member, said she, her husband Bob and their entire Genesis Sunday school group at First United Methodist Church of Edmond left that church when Powers was senior pastor there. Jones said Powers told the congregation he would not lead them through a discernment/disaffiliation process because it was not part of the "ethos" of the church. She said her Sunday school group began attending Church of the Servant and had hoped to vote on disaffiliation at their new church home, including a second vote in 2023.

Church is losing money and people over split, member says

Church of the Servant member Jim Flurry said the ongoing disaffiliation dispute with the conference and the conference's denial of a second congregational vote on disaffiliation had caused members to leave the church. He also said he knew that some people were withholding their monetary pledges from the church until a decision on disaffiliation was determined by the house of worship. On cross-examination by the conference's attorney, Flurry admitted that people might leave the church no matter what was decided in terms of disaffiliation. He said he still thought more people would leave if the church were not given an opportunity to have another disaffiliation vote and that fewer people would leave if the church chose to disaffiliate.

"The harm would be the church would split, fracture," Flurry said. "We just need to have the vote in order for the dust to settle and we decide which way we're going to go."

Conference was entitled to change disaffiliation requirements, leaders say

Conference leaders said they had the right to change the disaffiliation agreement required of churches. They based this on a ruling from the United Methodist Church's Judicial Council, which said regional conferences are entitled to establish reasonable requirements that are not inconsistent with Paragraph 2553. Conference leaders said they began with a template provided by the denomination's General Council as they crafted the exit agreement for Oklahoma churches. Attorneys for First Church described the conference's disaffiliation agreement as an "elusive" document because conference leaders changed it several times.

Church of the Servant had same rights as superintendent

The Church of the Servant church council asked Powers to call a disaffiliation vote in 2023 but he ultimately refused after meeting with the congregation in July. Timmons ruled that the church council had as much right to call the vote as Powers, the district superintendent.

This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Revelations from OK United Methodist court testimony
FILE - Adnan Syed gets emotional as he speaks to reporters outside the Robert C. Murphy Courts of Appeal building after a hearing, Feb. 2, 2023, in Annapolis, Md. Briefs filed this month before Marylands highest court presented dueling notions of the Adnan Syed case, a protracted legal saga that received widespread attention from the Serial podcast and has since pitted crime victims rights advocates against supporters of criminal justice reform. (Barbara Haddock Taylor/The Baltimore Sun via AP, File) (ASSOCIATED PRESS)

BALTIMORE (AP)  More than 70 wrongfully convicted people from across the country have expressed their support for Adnan Syed, whose protracted legal saga received widespread attention from the Serial podcast and has since pitted crime victims rights advocates against proponents of criminal justice reform.

In a brief filed Monday with Marylands highest court, the exonerees  who together have spent over 1220 years in prison for crimes they didnt commit  highlighted the devastating impacts of a flawed criminal justice system. They described looming hurdles they encountered upon release from prison, including barriers to employment, financial and housing insecurity, lost time with family, and severed social connections.

All exonerees and their loved ones are also victims, wrote attorneys with Georgetown Universitys Prisons and Justice Initiative, where Syed has worked since his release from prison last year. Adnan Syed should not be exposed to any further suffering by being denied the opportunity to move forward and live his life.

Recent court filings present dueling notions of the decades-old murder case as it continues crawling through the appeal process. The case is currently pending before the Maryland Supreme Court, which will consider whether a lower court violated the rights of Young Lee, whose sister Hae Min Lee was killed in 1999. Syed, her high school ex-boyfriend, was convicted of murder the following year and sentenced to life in prison. He remained behind bars until last September, when a judge vacated his conviction because Baltimore prosecutors found flaws in the evidence against him.

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The Lee family appealed that decision, asserting the rights of crime victims and seeking a redo of the proceeding that won Syed his freedom after 23 years in prison. The Appellate Court of Maryland largely affirmed their arguments, reinstated Syeds conviction and called for a new vacatur hearing  a decision both parties have since appealed for different reasons.

The Maryland Supreme Court will consider their appeals during oral arguments Oct. 5.

Citing a state law that says victims must be treated with dignity and respect, attorneys for Young Lee claim he received insufficient notice about the vacatur hearing, which was scheduled on a Friday for the following Monday. He was unable to attend in person because he lives on the West Coast, though he was allowed to make a statement via video conference.

The court ran roughshod over these rights in the parties apparent zeal to free Mr. Syed unimpeded, Lees attorneys wrote in a brief filed Monday, part of the latest iterations of court papers as the case drags on.

In a supporting brief, lawyers with the National Crime Victim Law Institute cited blatant disregard for the victim in this case, though they also acknowledged the potential challenges of developing a legal definition of dignity.

Meanwhile, attorneys for Syed want the states highest court to reverse the appellate court decision that reinstated his conviction and ordered a redo of the vacatur hearing. Syed has remained free pending a resolution to the ongoing appeal proceedings, but he still faces the possibility of returning to prison in the future.

The terrifying specter of reincarceration has hung over Mr. Syeds head every day for the past ten months, his attorneys wrote in a recent appellate brief.

They argued the Lee family did receive sufficient notice about the hearing and, furthermore, that their appeal was rendered moot when prosecutors decided not to recharge Syed after his conviction was vacated last year. They also argued that even if Young Lees rights were violated, he hasnt demonstrated whether the alleged violation would have changed the outcome of the hearing.

Both parties appealed to the Maryland Supreme Court after the Appellate Court of Maryland mostly sided with the Lee family. In a 2-1 decision, the court found Young Lee received insufficient notice to attend the vacatur hearing in person. But the judges also said state law does not guarantee crime victims a right to be heard during the hearings  a decision that falls to the presiding judge. Allowing victims to present evidence or otherwise engage substantively would result in a huge shift in practice, the judges ruled.

Lees appeal asks the higher court to reconsider that piece of the ruling and to expand the role of victims during such proceedings. Experts say a shift toward victims rights could stymie reform efforts amid a growing movement within the American criminal justice system to acknowledge and correct past mistakes, including police misconduct and prosecutorial missteps.

In Syeds case, Baltimore prosecutors started reviewing his files under a Maryland law targeting so-called juvenile lifers because he was 17 when Hae Min Lee was found strangled to death and buried in a makeshift grave. Many states have passed similar laws in recent years since the U.S. Supreme Court prohibited mandatory life sentences for children convicted of serious crimes.

The prosecutors' review uncovered numerous problems, including alternative suspects and unreliable evidence presented at trial. Instead of reconsidering his sentence, prosecutors filed a motion to vacate Syeds conviction entirely.

If his conviction is again vacated once the appeal is resolved, prosecutors could still seek new charges and potentially retry the case.

___

Associated Press writer Brian Witte in Annapolis contributed to this report.
Timothy Griffin was sworn in as La Grange Police Chief during the Aug. 28 the regular Village Board meeting.

He was originally sworn in Aug. 8 in a special board meeting, but the process was repeated so the public and his supporters could be present.

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Griffins starting salary is $146,570 as a regular at-will employee, meaning he serves without a contract. He will be enrolled in the police pension fund, and as a village employee will be entitled to the same health, vacation and other benefits as any employee.

The first thing I plan on doing is spending time with the staff and the department, Griffin said before the ceremony. We have a great staff that has been working so hard all summer long to maintain our service deliveries and provide the most professional policing that any officer can provide. At this point Im just taking it all in and listening.

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Griffin noted the staffing shortages the department has struggled with in recent years.

We have had some shortages, but were working though them, he said. Weve had a couple openings and were testing right now with the recruiting test and we hope to have those vacancies filled in the next few months.

Griffin praised the current police staff.

Im just really impressed with how hard the department works, and how they and how hard the officers work for this village, he said. They do such a variety of tasks.

Griffin has spent his entire 25-year law enforcement career with the Mount Prospect Police Department.

Since 2014, he has been the Deputy Chief of Police, Administrative and Support Division. Before that, he served as an administrative sergeant, patrol sergeant, detective/school resource officer, detective, and patrol officer.

Griffin earned a Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice from St. Xavier University, and a Masters in Law Enforcement and Justice Administration from the Western Illinois University, a Graduate Certificate in Public Budgeting and Financial Management from the University of Illinois Chicago, and graduated from the Executive Management and Staff and Command program from Northwestern University.

Griffin is a graduate of the FBI National Academy, and a Certified Eligible Chief of Police through the Illinois Association of Chiefs of Police. He also holds a Doctor of Philosophy in Organizational Leadership from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology.

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The vote to approve Griffin was unanimous and trustees were upbeat about the appointment.

Im excited to welcome Chief Griffin to La Grange, Trustee Lou Gale said. He comes with a wealth of experience and I look forward to working with him for years to come.

Trustee Beth Augustine agreed, saying Griffin was a very good fit for the Village. Its not often your police chief is also a PhD. He has shown a keen interest in expanding his knowledge base and areas of expertise above and beyond what would be required of a chief and that will serve our community and the officers he leads very well.

The Village also filled the position of finance director when the Board approved Susan Mika to replace the recently retired Lou Cipparrone.

Mika has over 23 years experience in municipal government and has handled annual budgets, audits, long-term financial planning, managing TIF funds, and capital improvement budgeting.

She most recently served as finance director for the Village of Winfield, and holds a Masters Certificate of Leadership Studies from North Central College, and a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and Communication Studies from Elmhurst University.

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Mikas responsibilities will include being Budget Director, Collector, Comptroller, and Treasurer.

Like Griffin an at-will employee, Mikas salary will be $151,500, and she will be entitled to all village benefits. She will also participate in the Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund.

The next La Grange Village board meeting will by 7:30 p.m., Sept. 11 in La Grange village Hall, 53 S. La Grange Rd.

Hank Beckman is a freelance reporter for Pioneer Press.
By Julia Harte and Rachel Nostrant

(Reuters) -Here are the most important things to know about the projected impact of Hurricane Idalia, which was weakening but still raging as it moved from Florida to Georgia on Wednesday, leaving a swath of destruction that will take time to assess.

WHAT IS IDALIA'S PATH?

As of 2 p.m. EDT (1800 GMT), Idalia was packing maximum sustained winds of 75 mph (120.7 kph) as it whirled through southern Georgia toward Savannah, the National Hurricane Center (NHC) said in its latest advisory. The NHC issued a hurricane warning for areas between Altamaha Sound, Georgia and Edisto Beach, South Carolina.

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Georgia Governor Brian Kemp said in a press conference on Wednesday afternoon the storm was expected to pass through Georgia and into South Carolina between 8 p.m. and 10 p.m. EDT.

Idalia's eye had crossed Florida's coastline over the Big Bend region, where the state's northern panhandle meets the Gulf side of the Florida peninsula, and was headed northeast toward Charleston, South Carolina.

The NHC forecast Idalia would become a tropical storm while moving over the coasts of northeastern South Carolina and North Carolina on Wednesday night and early on Thursday.

Florida moved from a hurricane advisory to a tropical storm advisory by mid-Wednesday afternoon, according to the latest NHC update.

Idalia was eventually expected to spin out over the Atlantic Ocean.

DEADLY RAINS, SURGING SEAS

Flash and river floods are forecasted throughout Georgia and the Carolinas through Thursday, according to the NHC.

Two motorists died in separate rain-related crashes on Wednesday morning, according to the Florida Highway Patrol.

More than 75 people have been rescued from flood waters in St. Petersburg, the city said on social media platform X, posting a video of two rescue workers in a small boat traveling through a flooded neighborhood in heavy rains.

The deadliest threat Idalia poses is a surging wall of seawater that could flood low-lying areas along Florida's coast, according to authorities.

Surge warnings were posted for hundreds of miles of shoreline, from Sarasota to the western end of Apalachicola Bay in Florida and from St. Catherine's Sound Georgia to South Santee River, South Carolina. Surges could rise as high as 16 feet (5 meters) in Florida and 8 feet in Georgia, according to the NHC.

"Storm surges" occur when high winds and atmospheric pressure from an oncoming hurricane force ocean water onto land. The resulting floodwaters may take a couple of days to subside.

A "king tide" - the highest type of high tide, caused by the extra gravitational pull that occurs when the sun and moon align with Earth - on Wednesday will likely exacerbate the surges from Idalia.

EVACUATION ZONES

Camden County in Georgia, where the chairman signed a state of emergency, issued an evacuation order, specifically for the residents of Cumberland Island and Little Cumberland Island. No other evacuation orders had been listed in Georgia as of 2 p.m. EST.

The Florida emergency management agency listed 28 counties with evacuation orders, 16 as mandatory for certain residents, especially those living in coastal and flood-prone areas or in mobile homes, recreational vehicles or structurally unsound housing.

POWER OUTAGES

Over 275,000 homes and businesses were without power in Florida as of midday, Poweroutage.us reported. More than 64,000 in Georgia were also without power.

Some 30,000 to 40,000 electricity workers had been placed on standby to help restore power quickly after the hurricane passes.

FEDERAL RESPONSE

Deanne Criswell, the U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency's administrator, said on Wednesday morning that more than 1,000 personnel from FEMA's rapid assessment teams were ready to hit the ground to assess storm damage once Idalia passes.

President Joe Biden called the governors of Florida, Georgia, South and North Carolina promising his administration's full support.

Prior to landfall, Biden had directed the federal government to pre-position personnel and resources to immediately support the states' response and recovery efforts.

(Reporting by Julia Harte and Rachel Nostrant; Editing by Donna Bryson, Andy Sullivan, Cynthia Osterman, Marguerita Choy and Sandra Maler)
A series of explosions were heard across the occupied city of Berdyansk, Zaporizhzhya Oblast, city Mayor Ivan Fedorov said in a Telegram post on Aug. 29.

Read also: Explosions shake Sevastopol: City on alert after major drone attack

"Residents of the currently-occupied Berdyansk report powerful explosions," Fedorov wrote.

Simultaneously, Telegram channel Berdyansk Today states that at least one explosion was heard almost throughout all the municipal districts, and an air raid alarm is sounding in the port.

Other social media reports suggested that Russian air defenses were active in the city.

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Previously, media reports indicated that a Russian ship had entered the port of Berdyansk.

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Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
Survey work has begun for two huge offshore wind farms planned to be built about 20 miles south of Brunswick County.

There are still plenty of hurdles to overcome, including lots of federal and state regulatory approvals, making sure the projects are economically viable, and securing customers for the power the giant turbines will produce.

But a pair of offshore wind farms proposed about 22 miles south of Bald Head Island took a major step forward this month with the first survey work for the projects.

Sailing from Southport, a research vessel owned by Geodynamics spent recent days mapping the seafloor to help identify the best locations for the placement of scientific buoys. The surveys will be used to find mooring areas for three buoys that will be the least environmentally intrusive while also allowing the collection of data to help direct the subsequent development of the offshore turbines that will rise more than 500 feet from the ocean's surface. The buoys also will be equipped with sensors to detect marine life, including birds.

TotalEnergies Renewables USA and Cinergy Corp., a non-regulated subsidiary of Duke Energy, spent a combined $315 million to lease nearly 140 miles of ocean from the federal government for the pair of huge wind farms. Once fully up and running, probably in the early 2030s, the wind farms could produce enough power to supply 750,000 homes.

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With the two wind farms adjacent to each other, the companies have decided to work together to help limit costs and take advantage of economies of scale. But first the companies have to determine where to place the giant windmills.

"This is just initial information data gathering," said Elizabeth Bennett, spokesperson for TotalEnergies, adding that the buoys will likely be deployed next year. "And while these projects are still in their very early stages, we see this as an opportunity for the Carolinas to take advantage of the millions of dollars in investments these projects can bring."

VISUAL EYESORES? Wind turbines off the Brunswick coast: What would they look like?

Watching out for whales

Offshore wind is seen by clean energy advocates as a key component in helping governments de-carbonize their energy grids by reducing their reliance on dirty, greenhouse gas-spewing power sources like coal and natural gas. That includes North Carolina, which has a stated goal of reducing its 2005 level of carbon emissions by 70% by 2030.

Offshore wind farms, however, have their critics. The projects are very capital intensive to build, although those costs drop dramatically once the turbines are up and running. Some coastal residents are also concerned that the giant windmills will damage their ocean "viewscapes," and local officials fear the visual pollution also could harm the region's vital tourism industry. Industry officials say the giant wind turbines will be next to invisible on the horizon.

The R/V Shackleford did surveys earlier this month in an ocean area roughly 20 miles south of Bald Head Island where two offshore wind farms are planned. Data from the expedition will be used to site buoys to measure weather conditions and track marine life.

But perhaps the biggest concerns surround the wind farms potential impact on marine life, particularly the highly endangered North Atlantic right whale that migrates through North Carolina's near-shore waters. A recent report by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) estimated only 338 whales remain, a decrease from the 2021 estimate of 368 individuals. Ship strikes and entanglements with fishing gear are the top dangers for the highly endangered animals.

Bennett said to help limit interactions with marine life the R/V Shackelford, the survey vessel, had a dedicated observer on board. It also voluntarily operated at a maximum speed of 10 knots to allow maximum time for proactive measures if a whale or other marine mammal was spotted. In addition, no equipment was used during the survey work that had sound frequencies harmful to marine life.

The Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) has praised the companies for the protective measures they've put into place to limit interactions with the right whales.

SHARING SPACE For highly endangered North Atlantic right whales, offshore wind brings a lot of unknowns

Balancing cost with economic benefits

The pair of wind farms planned for Long Bay south of Brunswick County will join another offshore wind farm planned for roughly 27 miles off Kitty Hawk on the Outer Banks.

While North Carolina has space and the wind resources for more offshore facilities, that idea appears cloudy right now.

The U.S. Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) this month rejected proposals for two new wind farm sites off the Outer Banks due to concerns raised by the Pentagon that the wind farms could interfere with military aviation training.

The pair of wind farms are proposed to be built in an ocean area south of Bald Head Island in Brunswick County.

Governor Roy Cooper, a big proponent of renewable energy, called the decision extremely disappointing. In 2021, Cooper signed an executive order that doubled down on the state's commitment to offshore wind power, with goals of 2.8 gigawatts (GW) off the North Carolina coast by 2030 and 8 GW by 2040  enough to power roughly 2.3 million homes.

But a bigger speed bump to more offshore wind could be the state's carbon-reduction plan, a roadmap on how the state's will reach its aggressive goals to reduce emissions and reach a carbon-neutral energy sector by 2050.

Although the plan has to be approved by the N.C. Utilities Commission, it is Duke Energy that largely lays out the way forward as the largest utility in the state. In its latest version of its plan, which is reviewed every two years, the utility's favored proposal retains an option for adding up to 1.6 GW of offshore wind by 2035.

GOING GREENISH With more gas and renewables, Duke Energy wants to meet NC carbon-reduction goal by 2035

Katharine Kollins, president of the Southeastern Wind Coalition, a nonprofit that advocates for wind energy development in the Southeastern U.S., thinks the company should be looking to do more.

"It made a case for offshore wind, but not as strongly as we'd like to see," she said of Duke's plan.

While offshore wind's upfront capital costs can be substantial, Kollins said so are the potential economic development benefits for North Carolina of tapping into a largely undeveloped business sector that holds huge potential to grow as more and more states turn to offshore wind to meet their carbon-reduction goals. Without taking into account those economic benefits, you only have the carbon-reduction benefits from a power sector that's still immature and expensive when compared to solar and other renewables and will likely stay that way for years to come.

"Yes, there are significant capital expenses right now," Kollins said. "But offshore wind comes with benefits that we're not going to get with anything else."

The R/V Shackleford did surveys earlier this month in an ocean area roughly 20 miles south of Bald Head Island where two offshore wind farms are planned. Data from the expedition will be used to site buoys to measure weather conditions and track marine life.

Reporter Gareth McGrath can be reached at GMcGrath@Gannett.com or @GarethMcGrathSN on Twitter. This story was produced with financial support from 1Earth Fund and the Prentice Foundation. The USA TODAY Network maintains full editorial control of the work.

This article originally appeared on Wilmington StarNews: Offshore wind farms Wilmington Brunswick County survey work starts NC
Claim:

An email from squarespace_usa@icloud.com authentically claims, "Your Squarespace Membership Is On Hold."

Rating:

Rating: Scam

Context:

Note that this scam may continue in the future with other similar unofficial email addresses.

In late August 2023, we reviewed an email scam that lied to recipients and said that their Squarespace membership was "on hold" and that a billing address would need to be "verified" in order to continue service. It's possible that a similar scam was also circulating in the form of a text message.

This message came from squarespace_usa@icloud.com. The email address was designed to fool users into believing it had affiliation with Squarespace.

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To be clear, Squarespace, a website-building and hosting company, does not send users email messages from iCloud accounts. Further, there's no indication that the companies whose platforms were used in this scam had any involvement in the criminal activity.

The scam email included odd language that was meant to strike a sense of urgency into any Squarespace users who received it. For example, one line in the message read, "Please take care of this right away so you can use your domain":

Your Squarespace membership is on hold. Verify your billing address to use your domain. We're required to put your domain, and any connected website, on hold if we can't confirm that we have the correct billing address on file. Please take care of this right away so you can use your domain.

The message included a link to a website on Wix, a competitor of Squarespace, that redirected to squarespace.account.gs. On this website, scammers asked users to fill out their credit card information and mailing address on a page that resembled Squarespace.com.

Domains ending in .gs are affiliated with "a group of islands located off the southern-most tip of South America called South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands," according to GoDaddy.com.

Aside from the scammy iCloud email address that was used in this scam, examples of legitimate Squarespace email addresses include noreply@mail.squarespace.com, customercare@squarespace.com, and form-submission@squarespace.info.

If any readers fell for this scam, we recommend immediately contacting your credit card company or whatever other payment method you may have provided to the scammers.

We contacted both Wix and iCloud to alert them of the malicious website and email address, so that they can take action on the accounts behind the scam. This story will be updated if we receive any responses.

Sources:

".gs Domain Names." GoDaddy.com, https://www.godaddy.com/tlds/gs-domain.

"Squarespace." Wikipedia, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Squarespace&oldid=1170641022.
Claim:

A video that went viral in August 2023 authentically depicted a giant carpet python crawling from a house roof to trees in an Australian yard.

Rating:

Rating: True

Context:

While some social media posts and articles claimed the snake was 16 feet long, we were unable to determine its exact length.

In August 2023, a video went viral on TikTok, X (formerly Twitter), and other social media platforms, allegedly depicting a massive carpet python slithering from a house roof to nearby trees in an Australian yard.

Only in Australia will you see a 5 meter long carpet python tree hopping in the suburbs [ Andrew Anthony / iamiandyi]pic.twitter.com/s9uJNbzfGj  Massimo (@Rainmaker1973) August 28, 2023

We had no reason to doubt the authenticity of the footage, especially considering the prevalence of such animals in Australia. By looking at still frames, we confirmed the snake was not an optical illusion, nor the result of digital editing, and there was no evidence of the video being a hoax. Several credible news outlets in Australia reported on the incident, including 7NEWS and 9News. The latter wrote in a Facebook post sharing the video:

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Crikey mate!  A five-metre python has been spotted slithering between trees in a south-east Queensland backyard.

#9News | WATCH LIVE 6pm

Various articles and social media posts described the creature as about 16 feet long (or about five meters), though we were unable to confirm its actual measurements. In general, Australian officials say the length of carpet pythons ranges between roughly 8 and 13 feet. According to the government in Queensland, a northeast Australian state:

Carpet pythons can be intimidating as they can grow up to 4 m in length (though most don't exceed 2.5 m). They are secretive and well camouflaged with olive to brown skin with cream blotches which allows them to hide among leaf litter in tree hollows, logs and rocky crevices.

Sharing the viral video, posts also highlighted the recorded reactions of people watching it move. They were recorded saying things such as, "He's quite beautiful" and "It's a carpet snake." At one point, a child asked, "How are we getting him away?" and someone responded, "We won't."

The video was originally published by TikTok user @iamiandyi on Aug. 27, 2023, and, as of this writing it had more than 25 million views. The post's caption read: "Only in Australia will you see a 5 meter long Carpet Snake in the suburbs." (We reached out to the account to ask questions about the video, and we will update this report when, or if, we receive a response.)

We examined the video closely to look for any signs of manipulation or fakery. Throughout the clip, details remained the same. That lent credibility to the assertion that the footage was not digitally edited to trick viewers.

(TikTok user @iamiandyi)

Carpet Pythons Are One of the 'Most Familiar Snakes' In Australia

According to the government in Queensland, carpet pythons can be found in almost every part of Australia, even on "the roof of your house or shed":

Carpet pythons live almost everywhere in Australia except Tasmania. They live in a range of habitats from the wet tropics to near arid desert. Look out for them in undergrowth, in tree branches, or the roof of your house or shed.

Moreover, the Northern Territory Government of Australia stated carpet pythons are "one of the largest, most familiar snakes in Australia, mostly due to its popularity as a pet."

A snake catcher from Queensland's Sunshine Coast region told Yahoo News Australia that it's common to see snakes move like the one in the video. "I find more pythons on the ground hunting than I do in the trees, but it's not uncommon," he added.

Similar cases of carpet pythons in residential areas have been reported in the past. For instance, in 2021, a carpet python got stuck in a door in Carindale, Canada, and required rescuing by the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. That same year, a couple in Queensland purportedly trapped a python in their roof while trying to snake-proof their house.

Here's a close up of a carpet python, courtesy of Getty Images:

(Getty Images)

Sources:

Archive, View Author, and Get author RSS feed. 16-Foot Python Filmed Slithering across Home's Roof Stuns Community. 28 Aug. 2023, https://nypost.com/2023/08/28/16-foot-python-filmed-slithering-across-homes-roof-stuns-community/.

"Australian Wildlife Rescues | All Creatures Rescues." RSPCA Queensland, https://www.rspcaqld.org.au/blog/wildlife-conservation/australian-wildlife-rescues. Accessed 29 Aug. 2023.

"Family Stunned by Metres-Long Snake 'doing Parkour' in Aussie Street." Yahoo News, 28 Aug. 2023, https://au.news.yahoo.com/family-stunned-carpet-python-doing-parkour-in-aussie-street-023344269.html.

Government, Northern Territory. Carpet Python. 1 Sept. 2015, https://nt.gov.au/environment/animals/wildlife-in-nt/carpet-python.

---. Carpet Python. 1 Sept. 2015, https://nt.gov.au/environment/animals/wildlife-in-nt/carpet-python.

Luxford, Manoli. "A Couple Who Snake-Proofed Their Home Shocked to Find Another Python." Mail Online, 18 Sept. 2021, https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-10003607/Terrifying-moment-python-breaks-roof-Queensland-couples-snake-proofed-home.html.

Massive 5-Metre Snake Spotted Climbing Trees | 7NEWS. www.youtube.com, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lIa9ulPvJic. Accessed 29 Aug. 2023.

"Monster Snake Caught on Camera Escaping Aussie Home." PerthNow, 29 Aug. 2023, https://www.perthnow.com.au/news/wildlife/monster-5m-carpet-snake-shocks-queensland-family--c-11736894.

Science, jurisdiction=Queensland; sector=government; corporateName=Department of Environment and. "Carpet Python." Environment | Department of Environment and Science, Queensland, 9 Feb. 2004, https://environment.des.qld.gov.au/wildlife/animals/living-with/snakes/carpet-python.

---. "Carpet Python." Environment | Department of Environment and Science, Queensland, 9 Feb. 2004, https://environment.des.qld.gov.au/wildlife/animals/living-with/snakes/carpet-python.

Snake Catcher Dan - Sunshine Coast Snake Relocations. https://www.snakecatcherdan.com.au/. Accessed 29 Aug. 2023.
Claim:

A YouTube video claims that evidence exists that former first lady Michelle Obama mistreated late family chef Tafari Campbell.

Rating:

Rating: Unfounded

The headline was striking: "Michelle Obama In Trouble As Evidence Suggests Her Mistreating Obama's Chef."

This was the title of a video published in late August 2023 on Drama Bay, one of a number of similar-looking YouTube channels that promote supposed news items from the world of celebrities and politics. At least two users also posted videos that reacted to the original clip.

However, videos like this one about former first lady Michelle Obama and late family chef Tafari Campbell were nothing more than misleading clickbait, as were the thumbnail images meant to entice users to click.

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At no time during the video's eight minutes and 48 seconds was evidence presented that Michelle Obama had "mistreated" Campbell.

This and other thumbnail images published by the Drama Bay YouTube channel were misleading.

Campbell drowned near the Obamas' waterfront estate on Martha's Vineyard in July 2023. The drowning was ruled to be an accident by the chief medical examiner of Massachusetts. The Obamas were not home at the time, according to Massachusetts State Police.

A disclaimer was included at the very bottom of the description under the video that said it might contain "gossip, rumors, exaggerated or indirectly besides the truth," and "content [that] might be opinionated." The disclaimer also advised that viewers do their own research.

However, the only way to see this disclaimer would be if users clicked "more" to expand the video's description.

With this video's claim that said Obama had "mistreated" Campbell, we chose a fact-check rating that we call "Unfounded," which we defined as follows: "This rating applies to a claim that we have investigated but found no demonstrable evidence to support it. Such claims typically originate as hearsay, speculation, or groundless rumor."

These kinds of videos and their artificial-intelligence-generated narrator voices that pronounced former President Barack Obama 's first name as "Barrack," as in a military barrack to house soldiers, simply appeared designed to make YouTube advertising revenue off of online users who place blind trust in anything they read or watch  much like commenters who post remarks under a news article after only glancing at a headline or thumbnail image.

We previously reported on a number of individual rumors about Campbell's death, some that were mentioned in the Drama Bay video. We also published the heartfelt remarks that were posted by the Obamas that paid tribute to their late chef.

In other previous stories, we looked at videos published by Just In, Drama Bay, Spill Today, and other YouTube channels, all that had similar-looking content and appeared to be part of the same network. Some of these channels showed signs of being based in India, Indonesia, and United Arab Emirates, to name a few.

For example, some videos on these channels claimed that various celebrities had made public remarks about the child-sex trafficking film "Sound of Freedom," including actors Mark Wahlberg, Matthew McConaughey, and Denzel Washington.

However, these videos presented zero evidence that Wahlberg, McConaughey, and Washington ever said anything about the film. However, that apparently didn't matter to the thousands of YouTube commenters who posted their thoughts without bothering to realize that their politics and emotions were being taken for a ride so that the videos' creators could earn advertising revenue.

Sources:

Liles, Jordan. "Denzel Washington 'Rages at Hollywood' for Banning 'Sound of Freedom'?" Snopes, 9 Aug. 2023, https://www.snopes.com/fact-check/denzel-washington-sound-freedom/.

---. "Did Mark Wahlberg Comment About 'Sound of Freedom' and Hollywood, Saying 'Enough Is Enough'?" Snopes, 3 Aug. 2023, https://www.snopes.com/fact-check/wahlberg-sound-of-freedom-hollywood/.

---. "Did Matthew McConaughey Speak About 'Sound of Freedom,' Saying Hollywood 'All Sold Their Soul'?" Snopes, 2 Aug. 2023, https://www.snopes.com/fact-check/matthew-mcconaughey-sound-of-freedom/.

---. "Videos with AI Voices Promote Unsupported Rumors About Death of Obamas' Chef, Tafari Campbell." Snopes, 21 Aug. 2023, https://www.snopes.com/news/2023/08/21/obama-chef-tafari-campbell-death-rumors/.

Marcelo, Philip. "Obama's Doctor Didn't Conduct His Late Chef's Autopsy and the 911 Call Wasn't Delayed, Police Say." The Associated Press, 31 July 2023, https://apnews.com/article/fact-check-obama-chef-drowning-vineyard-452209903189.

Medina, Eduardo. "Drowning Death of Obama Family Chef Is Ruled an Accident." The New York Times, 23 Aug. 2023, https://www.nytimes.com/2023/08/22/us/tafari-campbell-obama-chef-drown-accident.html.
BANGKOK (Reuters) - Thailand's Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin is set to finalise his cabinet in the coming days before it is sent for royal approval.

The following are key posts up for grabs and some of the likely candidates identified by local media and sources who spoke to Reuters. Details have yet to be announced.

FINANCE MINISTER

Srettha, a real estate tycoon, will also take on the finance minister post, senior Pheu Thai party sources have said. His signature policy is a 10,000 baht ($284) handout in the form of digital currency, to be used within a 4 km (2.5 mile) radius, aimed at stimulating the economy. Control of this ministry is crucial for him to deliver on this pledge.

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COMMERCE MINISTER

Phumtham Wechayachai is deputy Pheu Thai party leader and former deputy transport minister. He is known to be close to the party's jailed figurehead, the billionaire former premier Thaksin Shinawatra. The commerce ministry will need to boost exports, a key driver of the economy, which have been weaker than expected this year.

TRANSPORT MINISTER

Suriya Juangroongruangkit has rejoined Pheu Thai after serving as industry minister in the military backed government formed after a coup against the last Pheu Thai administration.

Suriya, a political veteran is expected to take the sought-after transport portfolio, in which he will look to advance long-stalled high-speed rail plans and oversee expansion of congested airports at top travel spots like Chiang Mai, Phuket and Bangkok to boost tourism, an important goal for Srettha.

ENERGY MINISTER

Former judge and justice minister Pirapan Salirathavibhaga has been tipped to take the energy portfolio. Pirapan represents Pheu Thai's army-backed rival, the United Thai Nation party, a late addition to its alliance.

Pirapan will oversee energy security at a time when Thailand's domestic natural gas sources are depleting as dependence on liquefied natural gas imports grow and its fuel subsidy fund runs in the red.

NATURAL RESOURCES AND ENVIRONMENT

Earmarked for this post is Patcharawat Wongsuwan, a former national police chief and younger brother to Prawit Wongsuwan, a former army chief and veteran political power-broker with a track record of undermining Pheu Thai governments.

Both are from Palang Pracharat, another pro-military party that joined the alliance. The ministry is a gatekeeper for environmental permits needed to approve major construction projects.

PUBLIC HEALTH MINISTER

Pheu Thai's leader Cholnan Srikaew, a trained physician, will take the health portfolio, a challenging post given Thailand's aging population. The government is expected to come up with new policies to support medical use of cannabis, a key promise for Pheu Thai's largest coalition partner, Bhumjaithai Party. Cholnan was deputy health minister in a previous Pheu Thai government.

FOREIGN MINISTER

Pranpree Bahiddha-Nukara was Thailand's trade representative in 2005 and has served as chairman of Thai oil and gas giant, PTT Pcl. A priority for foreign policy will strengthening Thailand's role in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, balancing ties with the United States and China and mitigating the impacts of bloody conflict in its military-ruled neighbour, Myanmar.

(Compiled by Chayut Setboonsarng, Panarat Thepgumpanat and Panu Wongcha-um; Editing by Martin Petty)
(Reuters) - Nine Republican candidates have qualified for the party's debates so far as they seek the nomination to take on Democratic U.S. President Joe Biden , who is running for reelection in the November 2024 presidential contest.

Here is a list of the Republican Party's leading candidates.

DONALD TRUMP

Trump, 77, has embraced his indictments in four separate state or federal criminal cases - unprecedented for a former American president - which have boosted his popularity among Republicans and helped make him the frontrunner in his party's race for the presidential nomination.

Trump has called the indictments part of a politically motivated witch hunt to thwart his pursuit of a second four-year term, an assertion that the Justice Department has denied. In a sign of his extraordinary hold on his party, just two rivals at the first Republican presidential debate on Aug. 23 said they would not support him as the nominee if he were convicted.

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Trump has vowed to enact tougher immigration restrictions and harsher curbs on trade with China, and to carry out political reprisals against those he perceives to have wronged him. He has a firm grip on his party's right wing, but may struggle to get moderates and independents to support him in a general election should he win the Republican nomination.

RON DESANTIS

After a glitch-filled campaign launch in May on Twitter, now called X, DeSantis has positioned himself to the right of Trump on a number of key social issues such as abortion. But his well-funded campaign has struggled to gain traction, and his top donor has said he won't give the Florida governor more money unless DeSantis adopts a more moderate approach.

DeSantis, 45, is Trump's top rival, but remains nearly 40 percentage points behind the former president in opinion polls. He has fired staff and rebooted his campaign several times since May, but those steps have done little to boost his candidacy. DeSantis' campaign says it is focused on stopping Trump in Iowa, where the party will hold its first nominating contest in January.

MIKE PENCE

Trump's vice president has broken with his former boss over Trump supporters' Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol as Pence was inside, presiding over Congress's certification of Biden's 2020 victory. Pence, 64, says, "history will hold Trump accountable" for his role in the attack.

A staunch conservative, the former Indiana governor is appealing directly to the evangelical Christian community. His campaign, however, has struggled to raise money and he is stuck in the low single digits in opinion polls.

VIVEK RAMASWAMY

A former biotechnology investor and executive, Ramaswamy, 38, started a company in 2022 to pressure firms to abandon environmental, social, and corporate governance initiatives. The political outsider has stoked grassroots chatter as a potential alternative to Trump. Ramaswamy is a fervent supporter of the former president, and says that if he won the White House, he would pardon Trump.

NIKKI HALEY

A former South Carolina governor and Trump's ambassador to the United Nations, Haley, 51, has emphasized her relative youth compared to Biden and Trump, as well as her background as the daughter of Indian immigrants.

Haley has gained a reputation in the Republican Party as a solid conservative who has the ability to address issues of gender and race in a more credible fashion than many of her peers. She has also pitched herself as a stalwart defender of American interests abroad. She has low single-digit support among Republicans, according to opinion polls.

TIM SCOTT

The only Black Republican U.S. senator has low name recognition outside his home state of South Carolina, but his optimism and focus on unifying his divided party have helped him draw a contrast with a more aggressive approach from Trump and DeSantis. Scott's supporters, however, acknowledge that while his sunny demeanor is a selling point, it may not be enough to win. Scott, 58, attracted 2% support among Republicans, according to Reuters/Ipsos polling.

ASA HUTCHINSON

The former Arkansas governor launched his bid for the White House in April with a call for Trump to step aside to deal with the former president's first indictment. Hutchinson, 72, has touted his experience leading his deeply conservative state as proof he can deliver on policies Republican voters care about, citing tax cuts and job creation initiatives.

Still, his name recognition remains limited outside Arkansas, and he earned no support among Republicans polled by Reuters/Ipsos. Hutchinson qualified for the first Republican debate, but not the second one.

CHRIS CHRISTIE

Christie, 61, advised Trump's White House campaign, but became a vocal critic of the former president after the Jan. 6, 2021, attack. The former New Jersey governor and federal prosecutor stepped up his verbal attacks as Trump faced a growing number of criminal charges.

Christie has received about 2% support among Republicans in Reuters/Ipsos polls.

DOUG BURGUM

Burgum, 67, is serving his second four-year term as North Dakota's governor after selling his software business to Microsoft in 2001. A proponent of low taxes and fewer regulations, he has sought to portray himself as a traditional conservative with a focus on the economy and national security. One of the least-known contenders, he gets close to no support in polls.

OTHER CANDIDATES

Several other Republicans are also vying for the nomination, including right-wing radio host Larry Elder, though neither has gained enough traction so far to qualify for the debates.

(Compiled by the Washington newsroom; editing by Jonathan Oatis)
The notion of the police investigating crimes ought not to be front-page news; however, this is British policing, where dog bites man is the new man bites dog. The Home Secretary Suella Braverman has instructed forces to investigate every theft, including supposedly low-level crimes like burglaries and bicycle and phone theft, as if this were a novel idea.

Meanwhile, the new Met chief, Sir Mark Rowley, has warned his officers against getting drawn into political causes, and to stick to the job in hand. If people dont believe we operate without fear or favour, he says, that is pretty fatal to us more than pretty much anybody else and that is why  we have to be tougher on that. That such things even need saying signals much deeper problems of competence and confidence in UK policing.

Though it will take more than another flurry of headline-grabbing announcements to rebuild public trust, at least they have recognised that there is a problem. Few could fail to notice a central disconnect in how the state treats the law-abiding majority versus how it treats criminals and wrong-doers. The former are constantly punished in the most efficient way imaginable. The latter are too often let off scot-free. Meanwhile, forces are intruding into areas that most people would scarcely consider criminal at all.

Among numerous recent examples; the pro-life activists arrested for praying silently 150 yards away from an abortion clinic, and the many individuals investigated for liking the wrong tweet or expressing views deemed offensive on social media. Simultaneously wildly sensitive and jack-booted on the ground, police forces seem to approach their jobs with all the emotional continence of a menstruating rhinoceros.

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Sometimes you even get your collar felt for condemning such overreach; a Conservative councillor was recently arrested and held in custody for nine hours for an alleged hate crime, after retweeting a video criticising police treatment of a Christian street preacher, who was wrongfully arrested in 2019.

Compare such overkill with forces almost total lack of interest in a swathe of crimes. But perhaps this should come as no surprise; its easier to hound the lawful who you know will play ball, than it is to go after the genuinely violent, who wont.

Earlier this month, West Yorkshire police dispatched no fewer than seven officers to drag a terrified autistic teenager from her home on suspicion of a homophobic public order offence. Her supposed crime? Pointing out that a police officer looked like her lesbian nana. Extreme examples, perhaps, but scarcely isolated incidents when the average citizen now has such a dysfunctional relationship with the state in even its most localised, mundane form.

How many of us have tales of local councils bully-boy tactics when administering fines and speeding tickets? I was recently handed a 200 Fixed Penalty Notice for failing to dispose of rubbish in the proper way. Having taken some cardboard to the outsize waste disposal unit near my flat, only to find the bins overflowing, Id left my flattened boxes directly next to them, thinking this would suffice. A minor infraction, yet I was fined as if Id dumped a mattress in the middle of the road, or left piles of industrial waste lying in a heap (and believe me, theres plenty of that in my neighbourhood).

It almost pays not to be law-abiding. Had I, with sufficient malice aforethought, ripped off the address label from the cardboard, Id have got away with my crime; yet trying to put it in the right place earned me a penalty. The council wont empty the bins promptly; but they will certainly fine you for littering. It is invariably the low hanging fruit of least resistance.

If only every area of the state operated so effectively. If nothing else, its proof that they can be speedy when they want to be. A pothole? Forget it. A parking fine, or a few pieces of errant cardboard, and suddenly the doziest council worker is transformed into the SAS of small-scale debt collection. Or contrast the soul-destroying experience of contacting HMRC with their speed in imposing penalty fines. Its as if the only time the state manages to function is when it gets the opportunity to inconvenience people, or extract money from them. Then its agents come down on you like a ton of bricks (on a non-health and safety compliant building site).

Stealing a laptop has no consequences, yet trying to report your stolen laptop involves yawning aeons of wasted time. The Kafkaesque process of filing a theft report is like a cruel and unusual extension of the original punishment; nothing will come of it, no one will care. The Apple service find my iPhone affords users the uniquely postmodern hell of watching their stolen electronic devices make their way across the country, tracking their locations in real time. Meanwhile, the police insist theres nothing they can do, even when presented with the identity of the criminal, or the exact address where the pickpocketed belongings are being held. Police inaction is making vigilantes of us all.

Particular problems bedevil the countryside. When it comes to rural theft, ambulance waiting times or broadband issues, practical help from the state is generally thin on the ground. But erect a new wall or lay a patio or fence a couple of inches adrift, and a clipboard-wielding apparatchik of either Defra or the council will inevitably pitch up to tell you what youre doing wrong.

A friend suffered a campaign of harassment from his local authority thanks to one persistent complainant, outraged that the property  a poultry farm  contained chickens, and those chickens made noise (as chickens will).

All this adds up to an incredibly raw deal for the law-abiding majority  a sense that every interaction with the bureaucratic or administrative state is a negative one. While any infrastructure the public might use deteriorates, enforcement of petty infringements remains in rude health. You cant get a doctors appointment, the state has abdicated its responsibilities for safeguarding private property, and all the while taxes continue to rise.

What, exactly, are we paying for? Government failures ought to be tax-deductible. In fact the opposite is true; we pay through the nose for shoddier service than ever.

Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month, then enjoy 1 year for just $9 with our US-exclusive offer.
A funeral ceremony is being held in Kyiv for a Ukrainian Air Force pilot, Andrii "Juice" Pilshchykov, who was tragically killed along with two other pilots in a plane crash in Zhytomyr Oblast on 25 August.

Source: correspondent of Ukrainska Pravda

Details: Lieutenant General Mykola Oleshchuk, Commander of the Ukrainian Air Force, was among the attendees of the ceremony.

ALL PHOTOS BY DMYTRO LARIN. UP

Earlier, Oleshchuk's order promoted both deceased Majors Viacheslav Minka and Serhii Prokazin to the rank of lieutenant colonel (posthumously), and Captain Andrii Pilshchykov was promoted to the rank of major (posthumously).

The Ukrainian Air Force pilots tragically killed in action in Zhytomyr Oblast on 25 August 2023 were also presented with state awards.

Pilshchykov was only 30...

Background:

Andrii Pilshchykov, who went by the alias of Juice, and two other pilots were killed in a collision between two Ukrainian training aircraft in Zhytomyr Oblast on the evening of 25 August. The Vasylkiv Tactical Aviation Brigade reported that in addition to Andrii "Juice" Pilshchykov, Viacheslav Minka and Serhii Prokazin were killed in the 25 August crash in Zhytomyr Oblast.

The State Bureau of Investigation is investigating the plane crash.

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that all the circumstances of the crash of training aircraft in Zhytomyr Oblast that killed three pilots would be established.

The State Bureau of Investigation (SBI) reported that technical malfunction of the aircraft, pilot error, and a violation of flight management procedures were being considered among the lines of enquiry concerning the investigation of the crash. The crash occurred due to the collision of two planes during a turning manoeuvre.

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For reference: Captain Andrii "Juice" Pilshchykov (born in Kharkiv) devoted eight years of his life to the Air Force. He had over 500 hours of flying time by the time the full-scale Russian invasion began. Including flying combat missions in difficult conditions. He was decorated with many state and departmental awards.

He was a pilot of the 40th Tactical Aviation Brigade of the Air Command Tsentr (Centre), the collective figure of the pilots of which was called the Ghost of Kyiv for their courageous actions in the defence of the capital and Kyiv Oblast from Russian aircraft.

Pilshchykov was active in the Western media and lobbied for the provision of modern F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine.

Ukrainska Pravda is the place where you will find the most up-to-date information about everything related to the war in Ukraine. Follow us on Twitter, support us, or become our patron!
Braxton Hicks, 7, of Livingston, Texas, holds his face to a portable fan to cool off during a heat wave that occurred during a baseball tournament in Ruston, Louisiana, earlier this month. With climate change driving average global temperatures higher, teams and parents are having to pay closer attention to the heat. (Gerald Herbert/AP)

Maui. Canada. California. Greece.

Wildfires. Tornadoes. Hurricanes. Droughts. Annual 100-year floods.

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Scientists say global heat has put 2023 on track to be Earths hottest year on record. As the frequency of weather-related natural disasters increases and the world forecast grows more dismal thanks to climate change, many of us wonder who, if anyone, can save the planet.

Who will bring emissions under control? Who will reduce the worlds carbon footprint? Who will keep our rivers safe, our soil fertile and our air clean? Who will undo the damage humans have done to this planet?

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The recent presidential debate illustrates the reticence of many of those who aspire to be in charge to even acknowledge the problem, let alone fix it. So, as we often do when faced with ongoing, complex issues, we look to the youth to a) correct the mistakes of their elders and b) make a better future for their descendants.

Allison Michaelis, assistant professor of Earth, Atmosphere and Environment at Northern Illinois University, launches a weather balloon in Bodega Bay, California, as an atmospheric river moves into the area Feb. 14, 2019. (Allison Michaelis/HANDOUT)

Fortunately, the pool of young people eager to make that difference is growing, as evidenced by a rising interest in the study of climatology, meteorology, and environmental and atmospheric sciences. Most important, perhaps, is a growing interest in the study of climate policy, said Allison Michaelis, assistant professor of Earth, Atmosphere and Environment at Northern Illinois University in DeKalb.

Michaelis said that while enrollment in the study of meteorology, in terms of weather forecasting, has held steady over the past several years, we are seeing a growing interest in the study of climate science, climate change and climate policy.

All of that, she added, is good news, particularly the growing interest in climate policy.

Its really important to have well-informed scientists going into the policy realm, she said.

Trent Ford, Illinois state climatologist with Illinois State Water Survey at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, said,

I have noticed  both in my time as a professor at (Southern Illinois University) in Carbondale and my current position here  a growing interest in climate-related education from students. That does not exclusively manifest as more majors or courses taught in climate science, but more interest in majors and classes that are related to or cover some aspect of climate and biodiversity issues, such as sustainability and renewable energy.

Similarly, Jessie Choate, senior instructor and academic advisor for the Department of Atmospheric Sciences at University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, said that while the majority of the students entering that schools program as freshmen are interested in severe weather or specifically tornadoes, many of those students switch their goals through their undergraduate careers to a climate emphasis.

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To accommodate the growing interest, Choate said, the university has started adding more climate courses and has hired a new climate professor. In addition, they will be searching for a new faculty member in climate change as part of a new cluster hire within the category of Sustainable, Just, and Resilient Society in the face of Environmental and Societal Change.

I believe our students are not only aware of the issues facing our climate future, but are committed to working towards a solution, she said.

Michaelis said climatology is challenging because were studying things we cant prove. Its not like a forecast where you make a hypothesis of whats going to happen tomorrow and then, the very next day, we get to confirm whether or not the hypothesis verified.

Climate study, she said, is looking at things that are going to happen in 50 to 100 years. We wont really know if were correct until that time comes to pass, she said.

Its still the same scientific process in that we make hypotheses and then we carry out experiments to verify whether or not those hypotheses are right or wrong. But its different in the sense we dont really use observations to do that; we tend to use these numerical modeling systems instead, where we can go in and tweak the conditions to say, all right, how can this event be different if we make the atmosphere warmer or if we increase the carbon dioxide or if we increase the moisture in the atmosphere, Michaelis said.

At NIU, she said, research is being conducted on severe conductive storms, such as thunderstorms and super cells, hail and mesoscale conductive systems such as atmospheric rivers and snowstorms.

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The university just introduced a new climate emphasis into its undergraduate curricula, Michaelis said. I know other meteorologic and atmospheric science programs have also added more curricula on climate and additional faculty with specific climate expertise, she said.

Even though the curriculum is already packed with required courses, it has the flexibility to offer seminar courses with a climate focus and to tie climate aspects into standard classes.

How concerned is Michaelis, who teaches a course called Climate Change, Science Impacts and Mitigation, about the future of the planet?

Very, she said. She went into meteorology for two reasons. The Superstorm of 1993 that hit her hometown of Greensboro, North Carolina, on her birthday. And, I was (and still am) scared of severe weather, and wanted to learn as much as I could to be better informed and prepared.

Its hard sometimes being in the thick of the research. Its fun and exciting to run these experiments but then theres the other side of it: This is real life, these are things that really might happen and this affects so many people. So, this is a really important place to be in this changing time and changing climate of doing our best to put out high impact scientific research so that we can then convey and get that knowledge out to people who can really make policy decisions on how to hopefully fix or mitigate whats going on, she said.

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It helps, she added, knowing that the university is engaged in researching solutions.

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Theres a lot of really good stuff that were working on here, she said. From a scientists perspective, were doing everything we can, or a lot that we can, within the confines that we can. And we really are trying to educate the next generation on not just the foundations of weather and forecasting but also applied climatology.

While the scientists do their part, there are plenty of things regular folks can do to reduce their carbon footprint, she said, such as reducing waste and turning off lights when you leave a room.

I know we fall into trap of Im just one person, what difference could I possibly make, but if everybody thinks that, of course, the future is going to be bleak, Michaelis said.

Do what you can. And, of course, demand our leaders and policymakers to do the same.

donnavickroy4@gmail.com

Donna Vickroy is an award-winning reporter, editor and columnist who worked for the Daily Southtown for 38 years.
Federal agents are reportedly trailing a group of more than a dozen Uzbek nationals who entered the US as asylum seekers aided by a smuggler with ties to Isis.

The extraordinary episode, which multiple US officials confirmed to CNN on Tuesday, was considered so serious that it required an emergency intelligence report to senior Biden administration figures.

Related: Hurricane Idalia closes in on Florida with warnings of 125mph winds

The migrants entered the country at the southern border earlier this year, and dispersed. The FBI is working to identify and assess all of the individuals, according to a national security council (NSC) statement sent to CNN, suggesting that the agency does not know the whereabouts of all of them.

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The statement stressed that no specific terror plot or threat had been identified. But an unspecified number of the individuals were being closely scrutinized for possible criminal activity. No evidence has yet been uncovered to justify detaining anybody, the statement said.

The incident was outlined to members of Bidens cabinet soon after the details were established, according to CNN. The Department of Homeland Security screened the group after they requested asylum and found no information in any of the intelligence communitys databases that raised any red flags, the network added.

All were subsequently released into the US pending a court date.

The FBI later learned of the existence of a human smuggling network helping Uzbek nationals travel to the US, which included at least one individual with connections to Isis.

The agency alerted its field offices around the country, and agents were tasked with finding the migrants and looking into their backgrounds. The FBI also spoke with officials in Turkey, where the alleged smuggler was arrested with others involved with the reported operation.

Those officials were able to obtain information from him useful to the US investigation, the sources told CNN.

Adrienne Watson, a NSC spokesperson, said in the statement that authorities concluded there was no immediate cause for alarm.

There was no indication  and remains no indication  that any of the individuals facilitated by this network have a connection to a foreign terrorist organization, or are engaged in plotting a terrorist attack in the US, Watson said.

The episode, however, has prompted a crackdown by immigration and security officials. A number of migrants at the southern border who fit the profile associated with individuals who were facilitated by this network, according to Watson, have been detained, vetted or marked for expedited removal.

In its own statement, the FBI said that while the [agency] has not identified a specific terrorism plot associated with foreign nationals who recently entered the US  we always work with our field offices across the country, as well as our domestic and international partners, to identify any potential illegal activity or terrorism threats.

The smuggler with reported ties to Isis, meanwhile, is also under investigation, even though he is not physically present in the US.

The sources told CNN he was believed to be more of a sympathizer with the terrorist group than an operative, and was not acting for them when he assisted the immigrants.

Likewise, the intelligence community, according to CNN, does not believe the individuals entered the country with malicious intent. Most are believed to be seeking a better life in the US, the report says.

Watsons statement added that the US was working with foreign partners to shut down travel routes associated with the smuggling network.

Whenever we have indicators that criminal actors, such as those involved in human smuggling, have connections to terrorism, we work diligently with our partners to investigate and understand how foreign terrorist organizations may attempt to exploit their capabilities so that we can best mitigate any risk to the American public, the FBI statement said.
As Congress returns from its August recess, members of North Carolinas delegation will have to decide where they stand on an issue that has often left them divided.

Should the government be able to monitor the electronic communications of foreign nationals and if so, what checks and balances are in place to prevent that type of monitoring from being misused on American citizens?

In the past, North Carolinas senators, Thom Tillis and Richard Burr , both Republicans, agreed on the importance of a provision in federal law governing that question. But Burrs successor, freshman Republican Sen. Ted Budd , did not support renewing the legislation as a member of the House.

On Dec. 31, that provision, Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act, is set to expire. It was created following 9/11 as a means to prevent terrorist attacks, monitor foreign adversaries and keep up with cybersecurity efforts meant to harm the country.

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But in the programs first 15 years, the FBI reportedly misused FISA to gather intelligence on U.S. citizens while investigating former President Donald Trump s 2016 campaigns ties to Russia, according to testimony by Inspector General Michael Horowitz. It was also misused against suspects in the Jan. 6, 2021, attacks on the U.S. Capitol, according to an independent report commissioned by White House officials and released in late July. And it was improperly used while monitoring an unidentified U.S. senator and state politician, The Hill reported.

Both Tillis and Budd said in written statements to McClatchy this month that the provision is important for gathering intelligence. But they both share reservations in how the FBI has used it.

Senator Budd believes that FISA Section 702 is an important intelligence tool, but there have been too many concerning abuses by the FBI, including improper searches of 702 derived data, Budds staff said in a written statement to McClatchy. As a member of the Armed Services Committee, Senator Budd will be closely watching how the debate plays out this fall, including recommendations for how to improve privacy and civil liberty protections for U.S. citizens.

Taking away the FBIs access to Section 702 does not appear to be under consideration if the program is renewed. The White House report notes that the FBI is the only entity within the intelligence community that focuses on threats within the United States.

CIA, NSA, and (National Counterterrorism Center) properly lack the mission and authority to focus domestically, so eliminating  or even severely constraining  FBIs ability to access Section 702 information for intelligence purposes would make America significantly less safe, the report states. FBI must have the tools it needs to do its job, but given FBIs compliance record with respect to its queries of FISA data, there is no question that reforms are needed.

Tillis spent a day in June in a Senate Judiciary Committee meeting about Section 702 and urged his colleagues to pass the bill, but not without reforms.

This month, he told McClatchy in a written statement that Congress needs to strike a correct balance between vigilantly protecting the constitutional privacy rights of U.S. citizens and protecting the countrys safety and security.

Law enforcement personnel need to be armed with tools they need to detect and respond to increasingly sophisticated threats from our nations adversaries, Tillis wrote. There have also been disturbing documented abuses of FISA that cannot be repeated.

Tillis statement also said that Congress must account for robust Fourth Amendment safeguards as it reauthorizes Section 702. The Fourth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution protects American citizens from unreasonable searches and seizures by the U.S. government.

The stakes are high. A U.S. intelligence official told McClatchy that 60% of the material in the presidents daily briefs rely on information collected using Section 702  and that 70% of the countrys counterproliferation efforts, monitoring the movement and construction of weapons of mass destruction, rely on the tool.

Our ability to identify new threats would be severely diminished, the intelligence official said, asked what would happen if Congress were to fail to reauthorize Section 702.

And our ability to reproduce this in some other way would never be matched  it is just not going to be possible. It will be the difference between preventing an attack and investigating it after the fact.

2018 authorization

The last time Congress reauthorized the program was in 2018. Burr, who at the time served as the chairman of the Senate Intelligence Committee, called FISA the single most important national security tool.

This bill will help us to fulfill our most important duty as senators: keeping Americans safe, Burr said then.

He added that Section 702 had been reviewed repeatedly by both the courts and Congress and said it was not just constitutional, but vital to our countrys defense.

In the House, his colleagues werent so sure.

Reps. Virginia Foxx, Richard Hudson and David Rouzer, three Republicans who remain in their congressional seats, voted in favor of the bill. So did Republican Reps. George Holding, Robert Pittenger and Mark Walker, who have since left office.

Reps. Alma Adams, a Democrat from Charlotte, and Patrick McHenry, a Republican from Denver, both failed to cast votes that day.

Republicans Ted Budd, Walter Jones and Mark Meadows and Democrats G.K. Butterfield and David Price voted against the bill. All five no longer hold seats in the House. Budd replaced Burr in the Senate.

That same year, Budd told The News & Record, during a campaign interview, that the FBI had abused its powers in using FISA applications.

FBI misuse

Tillis own frustration over that use would bubble up during a 2019 committee hearing after the release of a more than 400-page report by Horowitz that revealed the FBI failed to follow its own protocol when it applied for a FISA warrant to monitor Trump campaign adviser Carter Page.

Horowitz came before the Senate Judiciary Committee to discuss his report on an FBI investigation into whether there were ties between Russia and former President Donald Trumps 2016 election. Republicans were arguing that the investigation was driven by politics.

Horowitz quickly told the committee, though, that the probe was not politically motivated, and his report concluded that the FBI had enough information to open its investigation.

But Horowitz identified systematic failures in how the FBI investigation was both done and overseen.

Tillis, who continues to serve on the Judiciary Committee, said the top brass within the Department of Justice had turned a blind eye to damning evidence that undermined the Steele dossier, a report that made unsubstantiated claims about Trump.

Sen. Mike Lee, a Republican from Utah, was sitting in the committee hearing with Tillis. Lee had been a longtime opponent of Section 702, saying that while collecting intelligence on foreign suspects is important, it opened the door to spying on U.S. citizens who speak with foreign nationals, and once the intelligence community collected that information it was fair game for law enforcement to access it without a warrant.

Tillis gave Lee credit for being right about his concerns about possible abuses of Section 702.

Renewal

Four years later, Tillis still wants Section 702 renewed,. but not without changes to prevent abuse of the system.

Im trying to figure out how we get to reauthorizing Section 702, Tillis said in the June hearing. It would be irresponsible of us not to. Im trying to figure out a way to do it.

The ACLU wants Congress to put strong measures in place to protect Americans from Fourth Amendment violations if the provision is renewed.

The reform debate is about this programs broad intrusion on Americans privacy, said Patrick Toomey, deputy director of the ACLUs National Security Project. If the purpose of Section 702 is to target foreigners for intelligence purposes, as officials often say, then they should stop stonewalling robust protections for Americans.

Tillis said in the hearing that he recently visited the FBI offices to learn about changes the agency made to the program to guard against misuse of Section 702. He urged the agency to quickly provide a legislative proposal on those changes that lawmakers in support of the program could codify.

A month later, on July 31, National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan made a push for passage of the provision, calling Section 702 one of the nations most critical intelligence tools.

The White Houses independent report includes suggestions to provide the FBI with additional training on what foreign intelligence means, establish a more rigorous pre-approval process for Section 702, designate and train an FBI compliance officer and declassify, as much as possible, categories of items collected under 702 to enhance transparency.

The Presidents Intelligence Advisory Board authorized the release of previously classified documents showing that Section 702 helped the U.S. respond to threats from China, understand Russias attacks on Ukraine, find and eliminate terrorists, mitigate a ransomware attack on the Colonial Pipeline and disrupt fentanyl trafficking.

Fentanyl

Disruption of the fentanyl pipeline into the United States may have a major impact on lawmakers when making a decision.

Fentanyl, a deadly drug when taken in high doses or mixed with other narcotics, has become an epidemic law enforcement works daily to combat.

In 2021, 4,041 people died of a drug overdose in North Carolina, and more than 77% likely died from fentanyl, according to a North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services report.

National security and intelligence officials told McClatchy that the main avenues for smuggling fentanyl into the country go through the southern border. Section 702 has allowed intelligence agencies and border enforcement to understand and monitor the entire supply chain of the drug, from its precursor chemicals  largely produced in China  to their shipment and processing in Mexico, where cartels then smuggle them up north.

The ability to monitor that process from start to finish provides U.S. intelligence and law enforcement officials with more opportunities to disrupt the trade of a drug that, compared with other narcotics, is exceptionally easy to produce and to hide. And as smugglers work to adapt to evolving screening techniques, Section 702 allows U.S. officials to monitor their shifting strategies in real time.

702 is really the only source of information that allows us to stay dynamic in thwarting the threat, the intelligence official said.

Tillis recently sponsored three pieces of legislation targeting fentanyl trafficking:

Senate Bill 1507, the POWER Act, would give state and local law enforcement high-tech devices, like the ones used by federal law enforcement at U.S. ports of entry, to detect and identify drugs like fentanyl. These devices use laser technology to analyze potentially harmful substances and identify them through a library of thousands of compounds.

The FEND off Fentanyl Act would impose sanctions on those trafficking fentanyl and its precursors by transnational criminal organizations, including the cartels.

The Protecting Americans from Fentanyl Trafficking Act of 2023 would place related drugs into schedule I of the Controlled Substances Act, which means they have a high potential for abuse, have no accepted medicinal value and are subject to regulatory controls, administrative, civil and criminal penalties.

Other members of North Carolinas congressional delegation from both sides of the aisle have sponsored similar legislation to prevent fentanyl trafficking and deaths.
FRESNO, Calif. (KSEE/KGPE)  Fresno City College (FCC) announced Monday they received $25,000 for their Deep Maps project which will focus on local indigenous perspectives.

The money came from one of ten Humanities For All Project Grants awarded by the California Humanities program which supports locally developed projects that respond to public input and provide understanding to Californias diverse population.

Deep Maps will serve as a visual art exhibition and public program featuring artists, designers, and cultural practitioners who make work that deepens understanding of place and landscape.

A key goal of the Fresno City College project is to center local Indigenous perspectives through on and off-campus partnerships and to build complexity into the stories told about Fresno, the Central Valley, and local mountain areas, said Elena Harvey Collins, FCC Art Space Gallery curator.

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Further rooting these ideas within Fresnos local context, the exhibit will include materials related to the regions geographic history, through a reading room in collaboration with the FCC Library.

These projects will bring the complexity and diversity of California to light in new ways that will engage Californians from every part of our state, and will help us all understand each other better, said Julie Fry, President & CEO of California Humanities. We congratulate these grantees whose projects will promote understanding and provide insight into a wide range of topics, issues, and experiences.

Deep Maps will be hosted by the Fresno City College Art Space Gallery in the fall of 2024.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to YourCentralValley.com.
McALLEN, Texas (Border Report)  The Justice Department has filed a lawsuit against SpaceX alleging the company discriminates against hiring refugees and asylum-seekers.

Inmate escapes from max-security prison just south of the border

The complaint, by the Executive Office of Immigration Review, alleges the company founded by Elon Musk discriminated against asylees and refugees throughout its hiring process, including during recruiting, screening, and selection, in violation of the Immigration and Nationality Act.

The 13-page complaint, filed Wednesday in an administrative court within the Department of Justice, says from September 2018 to May 2022 the private space company discouraged asylees and refugees from apply for positions by wrongly stating that SpaceX can only hire U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents.

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It alleges that refugees and asylees who did apply were not fairly considered or hired because of their citizenship status.

Space Xs discriminatory hiring practices were routine, widespread, and longstanding, and harmed asylees and refugees, according to the lawsuit.

Refugees and asylum-seekers who are legally paroled into the United States by the Department of Homeland Security and are issued work permits should be allowed to work in all qualifying positions, the federal government says.

Illegal crossings shoot up in July despite strict asylum rules at U.S.-Mexico border

Federal law prevents discriminatory hiring practices against asylees and refugees, according to the Immigration and Nationality Act.

According to the lawsuit, because SpaceX designs, manufacturers and launches advanced rockets and spacecraft, the company has claimed it can only hire U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents due to export control laws and regulations including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and the Export Administration Regulations (EAR).

The SpaceX South Texas Launch site underwent major expansion in 2020. (Sandra Sanchez/Border Report File Photos)

The lawsuit states: Export control laws and regulations do not prohibit or restrict employers from hiring asylees and refugees; those laws treat asylees and refugees just like U.S. citizens.

In a tweet in X, the social media platform formerly known as Twitter, which is now owned by Musk  Musk commented Thursday: SpaceX was told repeatedly that hiring anyone who was not a permanent resident of the United States would violate international arms trafficking law, which would be a criminal offense. We couldnt even hire Canadian citizens, despite Canada being part of NORAD! This is yet another case of weaponization of the DOJ for political purposes.

According to a tweet cited in the June 16, 2020 lawsuit, Musk posted: US law requires at least a green card to be hired at SpaceX, as rockets are considered advanced weapons technology.

Some of the commenters questioned how that is possible if Musk, himself, is South African-born.

Panama eyes new measures as flow of migrants through Darien Gap

Border Report has reached out to SpaceX for comment on the lawsuit and whether the company plans to change its hiring practices if ordered to do so by a judge. This story will be updated if information is received.

The companys SpaceX South Texas Launch site is located near Boca Chica Beach, which is on the Texas-Mexico border on the Gulf of Mexico on a spit of undeveloped beach.

The SpaceX South Texas Launch site is located less than a mile from Boca Chica Beach, Texas. (Sandra Sanchez/Border Report File Photo)

The facility has grown significantly in the past decade to a sprawling compound stretched over a couple miles and employing hundreds in an area they call Starbase.

On the companys website it states: SpaceX is looking for world-class talent ready to tackle challenging projects that will ultimately enable life on other planets. We are an equal opportunity employer offering competitive salaries, comprehensive health benefits and equity packages.

The website on Monday listed at least 135 full-time openings at Starbase ranging from engineers to food services to human resources recruiters.

The lawsuit alleges that according to data SpaceX provided the federal government, from September 2018 to May 2022, out of more than 10,000 hires, SpaceX hired only one individual who was an asylee.

The federal government wants a judge to order SpaceX to hire refugees and asylees who qualify for positions and to pay civil penalties for each individual they say has been discriminated against.

Sandra Sanchez can be reached at SSanchez@BorderReport.com.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego.
McALLEN, Texas (Border Report)  The Justice Department has filed a lawsuit against SpaceX alleging the company discriminates against hiring refugees and asylum-seekers.

Inmate escapes from max-security prison just south of the border

The complaint, by the Executive Office of Immigration Review, alleges the company founded by Elon Musk discriminated against asylees and refugees throughout its hiring process, including during recruiting, screening, and selection, in violation of the Immigration and Nationality Act.

The 13-page complaint, filed Wednesday in an administrative court within the Department of Justice, says from September 2018 to May 2022 the private space company discouraged asylees and refugees from apply for positions by wrongly stating that SpaceX can only hire U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents.

ADVERTISEMENT Advertisement

It alleges that refugees and asylees who did apply were not fairly considered or hired because of their citizenship status.

Space Xs discriminatory hiring practices were routine, widespread, and longstanding, and harmed asylees and refugees, according to the lawsuit.

Refugees and asylum-seekers who are legally paroled into the United States by the Department of Homeland Security and are issued work permits should be allowed to work in all qualifying positions, the federal government says.

Illegal crossings shoot up in July despite strict asylum rules at U.S.-Mexico border

Federal law prevents discriminatory hiring practices against asylees and refugees, according to the Immigration and Nationality Act.

According to the lawsuit, because SpaceX designs, manufacturers and launches advanced rockets and spacecraft, the company has claimed it can only hire U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents due to export control laws and regulations including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and the Export Administration Regulations (EAR).

The SpaceX South Texas Launch site underwent major expansion in 2020. (Sandra Sanchez/Border Report File Photos)

The lawsuit states: Export control laws and regulations do not prohibit or restrict employers from hiring asylees and refugees; those laws treat asylees and refugees just like U.S. citizens.

In a tweet in X, the social media platform formerly known as Twitter, which is now owned by Musk  Musk commented Thursday: SpaceX was told repeatedly that hiring anyone who was not a permanent resident of the United States would violate international arms trafficking law, which would be a criminal offense. We couldnt even hire Canadian citizens, despite Canada being part of NORAD! This is yet another case of weaponization of the DOJ for political purposes.

According to a tweet cited in the June 16, 2020 lawsuit, Musk posted: US law requires at least a green card to be hired at SpaceX, as rockets are considered advanced weapons technology.

Some of the commenters questioned how that is possible if Musk, himself, is South African-born.

Panama eyes new measures as flow of migrants through Darien Gap

Border Report has reached out to SpaceX for comment on the lawsuit and whether the company plans to change its hiring practices if ordered to do so by a judge. This story will be updated if information is received.

The companys SpaceX South Texas Launch site is located near Boca Chica Beach, which is on the Texas-Mexico border on the Gulf of Mexico on a spit of undeveloped beach.

The SpaceX South Texas Launch site is located less than a mile from Boca Chica Beach, Texas. (Sandra Sanchez/Border Report File Photo)

The facility has grown significantly in the past decade to a sprawling compound stretched over a couple miles and employing hundreds in an area they call Starbase.

On the companys website it states: SpaceX is looking for world-class talent ready to tackle challenging projects that will ultimately enable life on other planets. We are an equal opportunity employer offering competitive salaries, comprehensive health benefits and equity packages.

The website on Monday listed at least 135 full-time openings at Starbase ranging from engineers to food services to human resources recruiters.

The lawsuit alleges that according to data SpaceX provided the federal government, from September 2018 to May 2022, out of more than 10,000 hires, SpaceX hired only one individual who was an asylee.

The federal government wants a judge to order SpaceX to hire refugees and asylees who qualify for positions and to pay civil penalties for each individual they say has been discriminated against.

Sandra Sanchez can be reached at SSanchez@BorderReport.com.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WesternSlopeNow.com.
A federal judge on Tuesday declared a New Jersey law that would ban a private immigration detention contract with federal authorities from being renewed unconstitutional  paving the way to keep the states last detention center open.

The opinion by U.S. District Court Judge Robert Kirsch, sitting in Trenton, could allow the center in Elizabeth run by private corrections company CoreCivic to remain open just days before its contract was set to expire. Federal officials have written in court filings that they fully intend to extend the private detention contract.

New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy , a Democrat, in 2021 signed a law that prohibited new and extended immigrant detention contracts between federal authorities and state, local and private entities. While there were four facilities in the state that held such contracts as the bill was making its way through the Legislature, only the one run by CoreCivic remains.

The legal challenge put Murphy  a progressive who once proclaimed New Jersey a sanctuary state for immigrants  at odds with the Biden administration. Attorneys for the Biden administration wrote earlier this summer that the law would be catastrophic to federal immigration authorities.

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Tyler Jones, a spokesperson for the governor, said Murphy was disappointed by the opinion but said other parts of the law remain in place.

The Governor is pleased that the rest of the law that applies to public entities remains intact, Jones stated. He understands that the Attorney Generals Office will appeal todays decision and seek to reinstate the entirety of the law.

In a statement, Michael Symons, a spokesperson for the Attorney Generals office, said that private detention facilities threaten the public health and safety of New Jerseyans, including when used for immigration purposes.

Other blue states have faced legal issues on similar laws that look to prohibit immigration detention within their borders. The 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals blocked a similar California law in September 2022 that prohibited private immigration detention.

CoreCivic sued to block the New Jersey law earlier this year, arguing it violated the U.S. Constitutions supremacy clause  which bans state law from overriding federal law. On Tuesday, Kirsch agreed.

A state law that wholesale deprives the federal government of its chosen method of detaining individuals for violating federal law cannot survive Supremacy Clause scrutiny, the judge wrote. [The law] would impose on the United States an intolerable choice between either releasing federal detainees or carrying out detention in an entirely novel way.

Attorneys for the Biden administration argued in court filings that the closure of the CoreCivic facility would create logistical issues for enforcing immigration law, since New Jersey would be without a detention center. Building a Department of Homeland Security detention facility from scratch would be costly and take time, officials wrote in court filings, and transportation of detainees could also take up resources. The closure of the facility could result in the possible release of certain dangerous noncitizens, federal officials wrote. Detainees would also be taken away further from their families, officials argued.

All but one member of New Jerseys Democratic Congressional delegation recently wrote to U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland, calling on the Biden administration to rescind its opposition to the law, saying detainees at the Elizabeth center have been treated poorly and the community is against holding immigrants there.

For nearly three decades, the [Elizabeth Detention Center] has faced lawsuits, complaints, and media reports alleging inhumane conditions, including physical and verbal assault and poor medical and sanitary conditions, Rep. Rob Menendez (D-N.J.) said in a statement. With this ruling, immigrants detained at the EDC will continue to be at risk of the shameful conditions that have stained this facility and harmed our community members.

CoreCivic Director of Public Affairs Ryan Gustin welcomed the judges ruling.

CoreCivic plays a valued but limited role in Americas immigration system, which we have done for every administration  Democrat and Republican  for nearly 40 years, including more than 20 years at Elizabeth Detention Center, Gustin said in a statement. Our sole job has been and continues to be to help the government solve problems in ways it could not do alone  to help manage unprecedented humanitarian crises, dramatically improve the standard of care for vulnerable people, and meet critical public safety needs efficiently and innovatively.

As of Monday, there were 235 immigrant detainees at the Elizabeth facility, according to ICE spokesperson Emilio Dabul.

Elizabeth is one of the largest and most diverse cities in the state, with nearly half of its population being foreign born, according to U.S. Census data.

The bill passed the Legislature along party lines. State Sen. Gordon Johnson (D-Bergen), who was the top sponsor of the bill while he was in the Assembly, condemned the courts opinion.

We don't need ICE in New Jersey and I'm shocked the federal court is stripping us of our right to opt out of their unAmerican, inhumane immigration policies, he said in a statement.

ICE and the White House did not immediately respond to a request for comment Tuesday

Read the judges opinion here.
WASHINGTON (Nexstar)  A federal judge in Washington set the trial date for Donald Trump in the case that accuses the former president of trying to overturn the 2020 election.

That trial date was set for March 4, disregarding what lawyers from both sides wanted. Former President Donald Trump says the judges decision interferes with his ability to campaign for the upcoming 2024 presidential election.

The judge in this case said she tried to take into account the trial dates in all of Trumps other legal cases.

Its unrealistic. Its theatrics, Trump Spokesperson Alina Habba said of the trial date.

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Trumps lawyers wanted a trial date in 2026, long after the next election, but now their client will be facing a jury just one day before the Republican Super Tuesday presidential primary.

You dont have to prepare much when youve done nothing wrong. So that, Im not concerned with, Habba said.

The judge said she would not take personal obligations like Trumps campaign schedule into account, adding the trial of a professional athlete wouldnt depend on their game schedule.

Mark Meadows taking stand in Georgia hearing: reports

Trump continues to be the front runner for the Republican presidential nomination, but rival Chris Christie (R-NJ) warns his party against continued support for Trump.

We cant have a convicted felon as our nominee for president and expect were going to win, Christie said.

There was also a hearing in the Georgia case that Trump and 18 co-defendants are facing for trying to pressure state officials to swing the election results there in Trumps favor. Former Trump White House Staff Mark Meadows and four others are asking for a change of venue from state to federal court.

Trump is also scheduled to begin trial in May for the case in which hes accused of withholding and mishandling classified federal documents even after authorities asked Trump to return them.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KFOR.com Oklahoma City.
A former senior officer at a federal prison in Lexington has pleaded guilty to sexual abuse of an inmate.

Gregory Barrett, who was an officer at the Federal Medical Center in Lexington, knowingly engaged in a sexual act with an inmate identified in court documents as B.B., records show. The incidents occurred multiple times between June and July in 2022, according to Barretts plea agreement.

Barrett pleaded guilty Friday, court records show.

The defendant knew, based on his training and experience, that any sexual contact between FMC staff and inmates was strictly forbidden and was a federal crime, Barretts plea agreement says.

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In October 2022, Barrett threatened and intimidated another inmate, identified as C.M., who was a witness to the crimes, according to court documents.

Barrett told C.M. to keep her mouth shut and suggested retaliation if C.M. were to speak to other prison officials, according to court documents.

The Federal Bureau of Prisons confirmed Tuesday that Barrett is no longer employed at the facility. FMC Lexington officials werent able to immediately comment Tuesday.

Joseph Bowman, Barretts attorney, was not immediately available for comment Tuesday morning.

Carlton S. Shier IV, the U.S. attorney in the Eastern District of Kentucky, signed a document charging Barrett on July 31. That document was entered into court records last week.

Barrett faces no more than 15 years in prison, a maximum fine of $250,000, and a supervised release of five years to life. Barrett will be required to register as a sex offender.

FMC Lexington is a men and womens federal facility on Leestown Road. According to its website, the prison houses a total of 1,252 inmates.
The Biden administration this week urged New York to provide better information to migrants about the immigration process and to expedite their departure from city shelters, issuing recommendations that seemed to question the effectiveness of a local effort to house tens of thousands of newcomers.

Erin Heeter, a spokesperson for the Department of Homeland Security, said the recommendations were issued by a team DHS Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas had assigned to examine New York City's network of over 200 hotels and other makeshift shelters that are currently housing nearly 60,000 migrants.

The recommendations by DHS represent the Biden administration's most substantive response to increasingly vocal pleas from New York leaders, including Mayor Eric Adams, seeking to secure additional federal support for the city's migrant housing effort, which has triggered some local backlash and created rifts between city, state and federal Democrats.

The DHS team came up with four main suggestions, according to department officials, including a call for New York to improve the information it collects on migrants and renewed efforts to give migrants information on how to apply for work permits and leave the local shelter system. DHS also recommended that the city provide lawyers and case managers to migrants across shelters, with the goal of helping them exit the shelter system more expeditiously.

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Finally, the DHS team called on federal officials to provide more information to migrant communities about applying for asylum and work authorization.

In a statement to CBS News, Heeter, the DHS spokesperson, said the department's team was "impressed with the exceptional efforts by New York officials under the ongoing strain of accepting a large number of migrants."

"DHS continues to collaborate with city and state officials, along with our federal partners, to identify ways we can maximize the value of our continued partnership to address, in a humane and orderly manner, the needs of migrants who have arrived in New York," Heeter added.

The recommendations, first reported by Politico, did not address the intensifying local calls, led by Adams and New York Gov. Kathy Hochul, for the Biden administration to allow migrants to apply for work permits more quickly by granting them a temporary legal status.

Local officials and advocates have argued that if migrants receive parole or Temporary Protected Status  both short-term immigration classifications  they can apply for work permits without having to request asylum and waiting six months to be eligible for work authorization, a requirement that only Congress can change.

But Biden administration officials have resisted these calls due to concerns about being sued by Republican-led states and potentially encouraging more migrants to cross the U.S.-Mexico border unlawfully, CBS News reported earlier this month.

File: Migrants line up outside Roosevelt Hotel while waiting for placement inside a shelter as asylum seekers camp outside the hotel as the Manhattan relief center is at full capacity in New York, on Aug. 2, 2023. / Credit: Fatih Aktas/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images

DHS officials said Tuesday that the administration has identified 11 federal sites in New York that can be used to house migrants. They've noted the administration has allowed New York to use a federal hangar at John F. Kennedy airport to house up to 800 migrants and is in talks to let local officials convert the Floyd Bennett airfield in Brooklyn into a temporary shelter.

Kayla Mamelak, a spokesperson for the New York mayor's office, said local officials were "grateful that our federal partners are now engaging in a collaborative process." But she said the city's requests remained "unaddressed."

"We continue to call on the Biden administration to take the lead in implementing a decompression strategy at the border, expedite pathways to work authorizations for asylum seekers, to declare a state of emergency facilitating swift allocation of federal funds to address our pressing challenges, and to provide more funding to match the reality of the course on the ground," Mamelak said.

New York is not the only city that has struggled to house migrants. Over the past year, other large cities like Boston, Chicago and Denver have found their resources strained by the arrival of tens of thousands of migrants released by federal border officials. The influx has tested the commitments of Democratic-led cities to be sanctuaries for migrants, exposed deepening political divides on immigration and drawn criticism from local Democrats of the Biden administration.

The cities' woes stem from a complicated set of factors, including the arrival of millions of migrants to the U.S. southern border in the past two years, over 2 million of whom have been allowed to stay in the country while their cases are reviewed by a backlogged system. Texas' effort to bus migrants to Democratic-led cities and a shortage in affordable housing have also contributed to the crisis.

The Biden administration has said it has responded to the cites' growing concerns and challenges by allocating more than $700 million in federal funds this fiscal year, including $140 million to New York, so local officials and groups can assist and shelter migrants.

Earlier this year, the administration also created programs that allow certain migrants to apply for work permits immediately after entering the U.S. However, those programs, open to some migrants with U.S. sponsors and asylum-seekers in Mexico who use a government app, do not benefit those already in the country without legal status.

Breaking down Biden's drug price plan and the challenges it faces

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FILE - Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg speaks in the South Court Auditorium on the White House complex, May 8, 2023, in Washington. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci, File) (Evan Vucci/AP)

U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg will visit Gary on Wednesday as part of a tour of industrial sites and infrastructure projects in the Hoosier State.

The former South Bend mayor will be joined by U.S. Rep. Frank Mrvan, D-Highland, for a visit to the Gary/Chicago International Airport, where he also will meet with members of the United Steelworkers. Buttigieg and Mrvan will be joined by Gary Mayor Jerome Prince and Indiana Department of Transportation Commissioner Michael Smith at a press conference.

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The Indiana trip is intended to highlight how the Biden-Harris Administration is investing in America and creating good-paying jobs in Indiana and across the country, according to a press release from the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT).

In April, Mrvan helped secure $6 million in federal Community Projects money for infrastructure improvements at the airport, with $4 million going toward construction of a heavy air cargo logistics apron on the airports west side and $2 million to install a sanitary sewer to the cargo center.

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A very happy Daniel F. Vicari, (left) Executive Director of the Gary/Chicago International Airport walks with Joy Holliday, Chief of Staff City of Gary (center), and U.S. Rep. Frank J. Mrvan, D-Highland, after a ceremony that commemorated $6 million in federal funds to support air cargo infrastructure at the Gary/Chicago International Airport in Gary on Wednesday April 5, 2023. (John Smierciak/ Post Tribune) (John Smierciak / Post-Tribune)

On Wednesday, Buttigieg will also visit Elkhart to celebrate a $2.6 million USDOT awarded to the city aimed at addressing issues with railroad crossings. The following day Buttigieg will be in Indianapolis to tour the Sheet Metal Workers apprenticeship facility and speak with union workers and apprentices, as well as to visit a road project that received $25 million from the 2021 Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act.

Freelance reporter Carole Carlson contributed.
The head of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) warned Floridians to take the looming Hurricane Idalia seriously at a press conference Tuesday.

I know that the people of Florida are no stranger to storms, and I encourage all Floridians to take this storm seriously, FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell said.

Idalia is projected to become a Category 3 storm before it strikes the Florida Gulf Coast on Wednesday morning, according to the National Hurricane Center.

Evacuation notices have been issued for 21 counties in Florida, eight of them mandatory. According to the Hurricane Center, some storm surges could reach up to 15 feet.

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Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis (R) declared a state of emergency for 46 counties ahead of the storm in the Sunshine State and also spoke with President Biden, who approved an emergency declaration for the state that will allow it to access federal resources to help respond to the storm.

President Biden said Florida will have his full support as they prepare for Idalia and its aftermath. President Biden also expressed his commitment to ongoing support for the people of Jacksonville following the horrific shooting on Saturday, the White House said in a statement.

The governors of North Carolina and Georgia have also declared states of emergency for their states.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Kyle Sexton was 16 years old when he died on the back porch of his familys home in Fort Worth.

He had taken what he thought was a pain pill, given to him by a friend. Instead, he took a fake Percocet laced with fentanyl.

The teenagers death in 2020 devastated his family, but also left his mother, Stephanie Hellstern, feeling a potent lack of justice. Who would be held accountable for making the poisoned counterfeit pill? Did the person who sold Kyle the pill know it had fentanyl in it? Did they leave her son to die on the floor instead of helping him?

Since Kyles death, a staggering surge in fentanyl-related overdoses across Tarrant County has left hundreds more families asking the same painful questions. In 2019, only 15 people died from fentanyl intoxication in Tarrant and three neighboring counties. That number had skyrocketed nearly 1,400% by 2022, when fentanyl was cited in 224 deaths, according to a Star-Telegram analysis of medical examiner records.

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In all, at least 672 people as young as 14 have accidentally died from fentanyl since 2019 in Tarrant, Denton, Parker and Johnson counties.







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As Hellstern grieved her son, she talked with policy advocates and learned about laws in other states that allow drug-related deaths to be prosecuted as murders.

And I was like, why doesnt Texas have that? Hellstern said. Texas is an eye for an eye state.

Stephanie Hellstern speaks to Gov. Greg Abbott following a press conference to discuss the fentanyl crisis on Feb. 15, 2022. Hellsterns son, Kyle Sexton, 16, died of an accidental fentanyl overdose in 2020.

Dozens of other parents joined Hellstern in a campaign for Texas to adopt such legislation. Three years later, in June, Gov. Greg Abbott signed a drug-induced homicide law, which goes into effect Sept. 1.

Texas law enforcement and district attorneys say they intend to use the new law to send a strong message to dealers. But some experts say the new law will do more harm than good. And families of the dead are grappling with mixed feelings.

We need to look at both sides of this. Yes, we want this to stop children from dying, Hellstern said. But on the other hand, nothing will bring our kids back.

What is drug-induced homicide in Texas?

Drug-induced homicide laws already exist in at least 25 states. The Texas law says someone who knowingly gives fentanyl to a person who overdosed could be charged with murder. It applies only to deaths after Sept. 1.

Texas Rep. Craig Goldman of Fort Worth, who sponsored the legislation under House Bill 6, said his family has been personally impacted by the fentanyl crisis. He had spoken with district attorneys and law enforcement across the state and asked them, What is the strongest law we could pass to benefit first and foremost law enforcement to punish these people who are bringing fentanyl into the state?

They told him current laws didnt have enough teeth to go after big distributors.

In June, Abbott also signed Senate Bill 645, which creates harsher penalties for fentanyl distribution and possession. The penalty for possessing or selling more than 4 grams of fentanyl will be a first-degree felony that carries a sentence of 10 years to life. Previously, a conviction for 4 grams of fentanyl carried a maximum sentence of 20 years.

Governor Abbott signs one of four bills aimed at curbing the growing fentanyl crisis during the Fighting the Fentanyl Crisis Bill Signing at the Texas Capitol, June 14, 2023. The laws , among other things, makes it clear that people who cause death by distributing fentanyl can be prosecuted for murder.

And possession of less than 1 gram will now be a third-degree felony, punishable by up to 10 years in prison. Defendants convicted of murder under the new law would face an additional sentence of five years to life.

The new law also classifies deaths caused by fentanyl to be labeled as fentanyl toxicity or fentanyl poisoning on death certificates when appropriate. Parents like Hellstern pushed for the change because her son did not die from taking too much of a drug; he died because he unknowingly took a pill laced with a more deadly one.

Preliminary data on a dashboard that tracks Texas fentanyl deaths shows more than 2,100 people statewide died of accidental poisoning last year.

Will the new Texas law make a difference?

Tarrant County officials have been on the front line to push for the states homicide law.

Were just gonna get those people off the street, said Phil Sorrells, the countys criminal district attorney, and it helps us get them off the street if we have a bigger hammer that we can use against these drug dealers.

But others have concerns.

Drug policy experts say such laws rely on a tough-on-crime mindset that actually exacerbates the problem and fails to address the root of the crisis.

Criminal penalties are often the quick response and viewed as a one-stop shop instead of working on the deeper public health solutions that can make a difference, said Miriam Krinsky, founder and executive director of Fair and Just Prosecution, a network of prosecutors from across the country who aim to promote a fairer justice system.

Experts and victims families worry that in practice, addicts or people who did not know a pill contained fentanyl will be easy targets of drug-induced homicide convictions.

While the intent of the law is typically to go after kingpins and high-level dealers, a 2022 report from Fair and Just Prosecution found that did not happen in practice. Nationally, half of drug-induced homicide prosecutions were of family or friends of victims, not dealers. The dealers who were charged were at the very bottom of the trafficking chain, the report said.

Different ideologies for law

Tarrant County officials also have different ideas of how the drug-induced homicide law should be implemented.

Goldman, the legislations sponsor, said the intent is to go after high-level dealers and the individuals doing this on a grand scale. Low-level dealers  like a teenager unintentionally selling a friend a counterfeit pill  are not the target, Goldman and Sorrells said.

What we would want to know is where did you buy it from, were looking for the dealer, Sorrells said. Thats where I see this law applied, is to the dealer.

Tarrant County Sheriff Bill Waybourn, however, wants to use the updated fentanyl laws to send a message to anyone who conducts that kind of business in Texas.

The message is that if youre doing this as a part-time college student selling dope, it could cost you the rest of your life. And thats the message that we want to send, Waybourn said. And still go after the big guys, we want to do that too, and were certainly doing that.

He said the amount of drugs seized in Tarrant County has skyrocketed since 2020. That year, the narcotics unit seized $3.5 million worth of drugs, including meth, fentanyl, marijuana and heroin. That number jumped to $35 million in 2022, he said.

To Waybourn, anyone involved with selling fentanyl is fair game.

We know there are 16-, 17-, 18-year-olds that are the school pushers, he said. And they are going to be caught up in that We need to get that message out that it can ruin your life.

Tarrant County Sheriff Bill Waybourn.

As an example, he mentioned that an 18-year-old in Tarrant County currently faces 40 years in prison for selling fentanyl.

Critics like Krinsky say such cases show laws already exist to convict people of drug crimes, and harsher laws are not necessary.

There are pretty extensive drug laws on the books, she said. I dont think there is a dearth of tools to have criminal accountability.

When asked about existing federal drug laws, Waybourn said federal investigators already have heavy caseloads. The updated laws can help the state share the load.

Charging low-level dealers and people who have substance use disorders does not disrupt distribution, said Regina LaBelle, a former top drug policy official in the Obama and Biden administrations. Transnational criminal organizations are responsible for fentanyl distribution, she said, and those groups are somewhat oblivious to sending messages.

Experts also say prosecution-based policies actually cause more fentanyl-related deaths, because people in a position to call 911 for someone overdosing might not do so because they are afraid of prosecution. Drug-induced homicide laws have also been shown to be applied disproportionately to Black people, according to a 2017 Drug Policy Alliance report.

I think that the objective is a laudatory one, but how things play out in the real world are different than the objective one might have, Krinsky said. When these laws come about, its the individuals who are there when the overdose occurs or the person who is jointly using who end up getting targeted and caught in the net.

Good Samaritan laws, which grant legal protections for people who call for emergency assistance in the event of a drug overdose, can help reduce that risk, Krinsky said. Texas passed a Good Samaritan law in 2021 known as the Jessica Sosa Act.

So many people are getting away with murder

For many parents who lose a child to fentanyl, advocacy is a way to honor their childs memory and transform their grief into action.

Adolph Alvarez hopes the harsher penalties will hold distributors accountable, like the people he believes gave his daughter fentanyl in 2022.

Abigil Alvarez loved to travel and planned to spend her 19th birthday in Colorado. In 2021, she graduated high school in Saginaw, and hoped to become an esthetician. Her family described her as a creative soul who never met a stranger and put others before herself.

Adolph Alvarez advocates for his daughter Abigil, who died from fentanyl poisoning on May 14, 2022, at 18 years of age, at their apartment in Fort Worth on Thursday, Aug. 17, 2023. Her parents, Adolph and Peggy, said Abigil was in a room full of people when she overdosed, but was left unconscious for around 11 hours before being found by authorities.

She was our baby girl, Alvarez said.

In May 2022, Abigil died in a Hurst apartment from fentanyl poisoning. Her father said there is no evidence she asked for or took any drugs willingly prior to her fatal overdose. The case is still under investigation.

Adolph Alvarez travels across the state speaking at events to raise awareness about fentanyl.

So many people are getting away with murder in Tarrant County, he said.

Adolph Alvarez looks at photos at an altar for his daughter Abigil, who died from fentanyl poisoning on May 14, 2022, at 18 years of age.

Christina Pena, who lives in Carrollton, is also a supporter of the drug-induced homicide law. Pena formed a Dallas-based advocacy group after her 21-year-old daughter, Angelina Rogers, died from fentanyl poisoning in 2020.

Rogers had endometriosis, a painful disease in which tissue grows outside of the uterus. She was usually bubbly, giggly and full of life, but often called her mom crying from the pain. When a friend of the family offered Rogers an oxycodone, she took half of it, not knowing the counterfeit pill contained fentanyl. Rogers, who had just graduated from cosmetology school, fell asleep and never woke up.

Our babies didnt want to die, they wanted to live, Pena told the Star-Telegram. But a lot of them suffered from pain or mental health issues.

Pena supports the law to its fullest extent. She hopes people think twice before selling. If she had the choice, she said, the woman who sold her daughter the counterfeit pill would be charged with murder.

Even if they give the pill and dont know it has fentanyl in it, it is illegal and they should be charged, she said. Our kids are being deceived. They didnt wake up and say, I want to be a drug addict.

Some parents have mixed feelings on the law.

Jacob Reyes, 21, was in his second year at the University of Oklahoma when he died in his sleep after taking a tramadol pain pill that was laced with fentanyl. Reyes was a talented saxophone player who was extremely smart and close with his family in Fort Worth. He had recently injured himself, his mother Margaret Reyes said, and one of his friends gave him the pills.

The case is still under investigation. In terms of a criminal sentence, Margaret Reyes said she mostly wants to make sure those who gave her son drugs do not hurt or kill anyone else.

Theyre going to have to take responsibility and answer when its time for them to talk to the Lord, she said. But like I said, theyre kids. I just want them to apologize and take responsibility that they did wrong and that they will never do it again. And then its up to the courts to decide how to punish them.

Andrea McCutcheons daughter, Valerie Vineyard, died after taking what she thought was a Percocet with her boyfriend. Her boyfriend survived after being resuscitated six times, but Valerie, 19, died from the fentanyl-laced pill in Saginaw.

Andrea McCutcheon becomes emotional talking about her daughter Valerie Vineyard, who died from fentanyl poisoning on May 27, 2021, at the age of 19. Vineyard and her boyfriend Harrison were both found unconscious the morning after they took a Percocet pill laced with fentanyl. Vineyards boyfriend survived, but she did not.

Vineyard had dabbled in drugs like Xanax and had asked her mother to go with her to Narcotics Anonymous so she could get treatment. One Saturday in 2021, they made plans to go the following week.

The next day, Valerie took the counterfeit pill that ended her life.

The person accused of selling Vineyard the drugs, Ariel Vargas, has been charged with negligent homicide, according to Tarrant County court records. He also faces multiple drug charges, each of which carries a potential sentence of five years to life.

McCutcheon focuses mostly on raising awareness that one pill can kill. She goes back and forth about what sentence she thinks Vargas should receive.

Im not one of those people that are just like let him go and do 50 years because to me, he lives with that every day, she said. But I do think he needs to have some type of punishment... . How many years is somebodys life worth?

Andrea McCutcheon holds a shirt made in memory of her daughter Valerie Vineyard, who died from a fentanyl overdose on May 27, 2021, at the age of 19.

Could cost you your life

As an increasing number of people are lost to fentanyl, theres a frustration that we need to do something, said LaBelle, the former top drug policy official under Presidents Obama and Biden.

But harm reduction policies, which focus on mental health and treatment options, are more effective solutions to the fentanyl crisis, said LaBelle, who is now the director of the Addiction and Public Policy Initiative at Georgetown University.

For example, fentanyl test strips allow people to safely check if a pill or drug has fentanyl in it, reducing drug overdoses and poisonings. Fentanyl test strips are illegal in some states, including Texas, though Abbott recently expressed support for decriminalizing them. Many parents, including Alvarez, lobbied in the 2023 Texas legislative session to decriminalize the strips, but the Senate declined to pass the proposed law.

To address the fentanyl crisis, we need proven harm reduction approaches that will save lives today, Krinsky said. Drug-induced homicide statutes do the opposite, forcing people into unthinkable situations where they have to weigh whether to call for help and risk prosecution for homicide or allow a friend or loved one to die of an overdose.

Hellstern agrees with the need for a more comprehensive plan.

The root is mental health, Hellstern said. I wish I could have told Kyle or anybody that that pill, that one high, that one shoot-up is not going to make you feel better. And I would have told him that that could cost you your life. Its happening to everyday people who are fighting everyday life.

If you or someone you know has a substance use disorder, you can call the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administrations national helpline; a free, confidential, 24/7, 365-day-a-year treatment referral and information service (in English and Spanish) for individuals and families facing mental and/or substance use disorders, at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).

Also available 24/7 for Texans, the Texas Addiction Hotline is free and anonymous for any resident to receive assistance with addiction at 866-210-1303.
WASHINGTON (WDCW)  The killing of a 16-year-old girl from Maryland took place after she and her accused murderer fought over sweet and sour dipping sauce, a detective with the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) said.

Det. Brendan Jasper testified at the arraignment of the 16-year-old girl whom police arrested for the alleged murder of Naima Liggon.

Jasper said the teenagers met three other people in Oxon Hill, Maryland, then drove to D.C. to go to a party on Sunday. After leaving the party, the group headed to McDonalds.

The three other people who were with the girls told police that after the group got back into the car, the unnamed 16-year-old girl got into a fight about sweet and sour dipping sauce with Liggon. Jasper said they got out of the car and that during the fight, the other girl stabbed Liggon in her abdomen and chest.

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The three other people took Liggon to Howard University Hospital where she died. They told police that the 16-year-old girl accused of killing Liggon left the scene of the alleged stabbing on foot. Officers found her and said they found she had a black pocketknife.

44-year-old cold case solved

Police said both girls were from Waldorf, Maryland.

Liggon, who was a student at Thomas Stone High School, died just before she was set to start school for the academic year.

This is not the news a principal ever wants to share, let alone the day before we start a new school year, said Principal Shanif Pearl in a letter to parents and staff.

The 16-year-old girls lawyer asked the judge to put the girl on a 24/7 curfew, rather than order her to be held. In the end, the judge said that the girl should be placed in a juvenile detention center.

The next hearing for the 16-year-old was set for Friday.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego.
NEW BEDFORD  For five years Arya Witner worked at the downtown New Bedford bus terminal next door to City Hall "and witnessed the worst of both."

Witner said she saw multiple overdoses in the terminal's restroom from that vantage point. And, she claims, City Hall failed to address the issue.

"These are our neighbors who are so down in life, and begging for a lifeline that they would go sit on a dirty bathroom floor and shoot themselves up," she said.

Witner, 38, said her focus in seeking an at-large seat on the New Bedford City Council is to help those with drug problems, as well as those who are unhoused or homeless.

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Witner is also the city's first openly transgender candidate to seek election to the council, she said, and most likely the first ever to seek any elective post in the city.

"I was a little surprised," she said. "I figured there were people before me. There really weren't."

Support from the LGBTQ community

Her candidacy has received support from the local LGBTQ+ community, Witner said.

New Bedford's first openly transgender city council candidate, Arya Witner, is focused on drug, homeless, infrastructure issues.

The Rev. Donnie Anderson, pastor at Pilgrim United Church of Christ in New Bedford, is a transgender woman. Anderson ran an unsuccessful campaign for state senate in Rhode Island a year ago. She lives in Providence.

Helping out: 'If you're older, you're just plain afraid': How SouthCoast advocates are helping LGBTQ+ elders

While she doesn't know Witner personally, she said, "I think it is absolutely wonderful when anyone in our community steps forward to put themselves in a place to be a leader, and also puts themselves forward to perhaps subject themselves to some criticism and some deep difficulty."

She said transgender people are like everybody else, with their own strengths, and weaknesses.

She said being transgender doesn't make a candidate automatically good or bad. It depends on the candidate's qualities and the needs of the office.

Added insight on issues

But a candidate that is qualified and transgender can bring added insight on issues that other officials may not have.

There are potential pitfalls, Anderson added.

Anderson is executive committee chair of the Rhode Island Democratic Women's Caucus, which recently hosted a forum for candidates for Rhode Island's 1st Congressional District.

Donnie Anderson: Rhode Island Democratic Women's Caucus makes history with new group chair

One candidate responded immediately to an emailed invitation with a refusal, and sent copies to the media that they would never participate in a forum hosted by a transgender woman.

Anderson said Witner should be aware that there are those who won't appreciate her candidacy.

But, Anderson added, New Bedford is a very welcoming community.

"New Bedford is a good place. I would be shocked and disappointed and I really wouldn't expect that this candidate would have difficulty simply because they're transgender," Anderson said.

Andrew Pollack, president of the South Coast LGBTQ+ Network, was strongly supportive of Witner's candidacy when asked for comment.

Pollack cannot speak in behalf of the South Coast LGBTQ+ Network because it's a non-profit and prohibited from endorsing political candidates.

'Diversity brings strength'

But speaking for himself, Pollack said, "I feel it's a great, wonderful thing. Diversity brings strength. Different points of view lead to better decisions. Involving the entire community with different points of view is really key. I'm thrilled."

Getting her name out there

This is her first campaign, and to win she will need to get name recognition, Witner said.

Her face is well known, she said, through her work at the terminal, her work as a tax preparer prior to that, and her current job with the Hawthorn Medical Call Center.

"Most people have seen my face and go, 'Hey, I know that person. She did my taxes. She worked at the bus terminal.' But the issue is getting my name out there," Witner said.

She added, "If I do a decent enough job getting my name out there, and really hammer it home, I think I'll have a greater chance."

Feeling at home in New Bedford

Witner moved to New Bedford from her native Pennsylvania in 2009. "While I loved Pennsylvania, I have never felt more at home than here in New Bedford. New Bedford embraced me and gave me the courage to truly be myself without fear of repercussion."

But there are things she doesn't like about New Bedford beyond the problems with drug addiction and homelessness.

And one of those is infrastructure, including city roads. Litter is also a problem.

"Things need to be done with our streets, both in a literal and figurative sense. We need to help people get off the streets and we need to help clean up the streets - clean up litter and fix the roads themselves," Witner said.

Witner graduated from Hazleton Area High School in Pennsylvania and tried college twice but found it wasn't for her, she said.

Her background in customer service work and helping people, will be an asset as a city councilor if she gets on the board, she said.

This article originally appeared on Standard-Times: New Bedford transgender candidate focused on drug, homeless issues
MUNCIE, Ind.  A Muncie man on Tuesday was sentenced to 35 years in prison for his role in events leading to a Yorktown resident's fatal overdose.

The prison term received by 32-year-old Joel D. West was likely the final sentence to be imposed by Judge Linda Ralu Wolf, who is retiring this week after nearly 15 years on the Delaware Circuit Court 3 bench and more than three decades as a local judge.

A Delaware Circuit Court 3 jury on Aug. 3 found West guilty of dealing in a controlled substance resulting in death, a Level 1 felony carrying up to 40 years in prison.

West was arrested by Yorktown police in February 2019, a few weeks after he sold meth to a 26-year-old Yorktown man who then died of an overdose.

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The victim's mother, and the mother of his daughter  who was four years old when her father died  took the witness stand at Tuesday's hearing and recounted the devastating impact the death has had on their family.

More: Muncie man convicted of drug dealing resulting in death

West  who said he would appeal his conviction  told the judge "there's nothing I can say that will mitigate any sort of grief."

The Muncie man offered his condolences to the overdose victim's family.

"I didn't foresee any of this happening," he said.

Defense attorney Sam Beasley recommended his client be sentenced to 20 years in prison followed by several years on probation.

Chief Deputy Prosecutor Zach Craig maintained no portion of West's sentence should be suspended, saying the defendant had preyed upon a substance abuser and then never expressed true remorse.

Judge Wolf also said West had made a decision to "prey on the vulnerability of an addict for monetary gain."

The judge also said she had "never heard any remorse from Mr. West."

Wolf is retiring from as Circuit Court 3 judge this week. She was first elected to the bench in 2008 and won re-election to six-year terms in 2014 and 2020.

She had previously served 21 years as judge of Muncie City Court.

The judge made no mention of her upcoming departure during Tuesday's hearing.

Gov. Eric Holcomb has appointed local attorney Doug Mawhorr to succeed Wolf as Circuit Court 3 judge effective Friday.

Douglas Walker is a news reporter at The Star Press. Contact him at 765-213-5851 or at dwalker@muncie.gannett.com.

This article originally appeared on Muncie Star Press: At final hearing, Judge Wolf sentences man for role in fatal OD
Smoke and damage from the Smith River Complex fire can be seen on the closed U.S. Route 199 in Gasquet, Calif., this month. The fire has burned 74,000 acres along the California-Oregon border. (Caltrans via Associated Press)

Officials are warning that thousands across Northern California could lose power Wednesday in planned outages as the region faces a critical fire threat  while already dealing with poor air quality amid smoky skies and growing devastation from multiple ongoing wildfires.

Much of the Sacramento Valley and North Bay Area interior mountains are under a red flag warning from late Tuesday through Wednesday, with gusty winds and low humidity predicted, a combination that forecasters said could cause fire to "rapidly grow in size and intensity." It is the first red flag warning  indicating the most critical fire conditions  issued this year by the National Weather Service office in Sacramento, and the first issued since 2021 in the Bay Area's office.

The weather service urged residents to take precautions to prevent fires and have an emergency plan ready if a fire starts.

Read more: Bare electrical wire and leaning poles on Maui were possible cause of deadly fires

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Pacific Gas & Electric Co., the state's largest utility provider, warned that up to 8,000 customers across seven counties should prepare to lose power Wednesday in likely "public safety power shutoffs."

"Given the wind event and current conditions, including dry vegetation, PG&E has begun sending advanced notifications to customers  via text, email and automated phone call  in targeted areas where PG&E may need to proactively turn power off for safety to reduce the risk of wildfire from energized powerlines," the company said in a statement.

The planned outages could begin around 3 a.m. Wednesday, affecting residents mostly on the west side of the Sacramento Valley  where the National Weather Service said there would be the "highest threat" of fire conditions.

RED FLAG WARNING has been issued for the parts of the Sac Valley.



 11 PM Today - 8 PM Wednesday.



Breezy northerly winds + low humidity will lead to critical fire weather conditions in the warning area.



This is NWS Sacramento's first Red Flag Warning of 2023. #CAwx #CAfire pic.twitter.com/VIqVsmwsaU  NWS Sacramento (@NWSSacramento) August 29, 2023

The majority of affected residents are in Shasta and Tehama counties, but pockets of Colusa, Glenn, Lake, Napa and Yolo counties could also see planned outages, according to PG&E. Utility officials said the shutoffs were meant to "stop catastrophic wildfires by proactively turning off power when extreme weather threatens our electric grid."

It wasn't immediately clear how long the shutoffs might last.

Already north and west of this region, multiple wildfires  mostly sparked by lightning strikes earlier this month  are burning in primarily remote areas, with heavy smoke spreading well beyond the blazes' perimeters.

Read more: As California fires worsen, can AI come to the rescue?

The Bay Area Air Quality Management District again warned of poor air quality Tuesday as a result of growing smoke plumes drifting south from fires in Northern California and Oregon. Smoky skies have prompted air quality warnings almost every day in the last week.

The largest of the fires had burned 74,000 acres along the Oregon border in Six Rivers National Forest by Tuesday morning, with crews working urgently to secure a perimeter before conditions worsen early Wednesday. The Smith River Complex fire has prompted evacuations, closed much of the national forest and remained only 7% contained, according to the incident command team.

Farther south, but still primarily in the Six Rivers National Forest, federal officials are responding to a web of 20 wildfires burning across 11,000 acres, making up the Six Rivers National Forest Lightning Complex and Redwood Lightning Complex. The wildfire complex was 20% contained Tuesday morning, according to federal officials.

Read more: Wildfires raging near California-Oregon border leave 1 dead, destroy at least 9 homes

The Happy Camp Complex fire, burning more than 22,000 acres in the Klamath National Forest, has already killed one person and destroyed nine structures, with 1,600 structures threatened. As of Tuesday, it was 31% contained, officials said.

Gov. Gavin Newsom declared a state of emergency in Del Norte and Siskiyou counties due to the Smith River Complex and Happy Camp Complex fires, respectively. The proclamation waives fees and licensing requirements for out-of-state contractors to help restore utility infrastructure. It also waives fees for official documents, such as marriage and birth certificates or driver's licenses, that may have been lost in the fire.

Also 31% contained was the South Fork Complex fire, straddling the border of the Shasta-Trinity and Six Rivers national forests, mostly in Humboldt County. Both national forests have closed areas surrounding the fires, which in total make up 3,000 acres, officials said.

Times staff writer Jeremy Childs contributed to this report.

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
A 20-year-old man is facing a potential death sentence after he became the first person to be charged with aggravated homosexuality under Ugandas new law that calls for the death penalty for some same-sex sexual relations.

The unnamed man was accused of having performed unlawful sexual intercourse with another man on August 18, according to Reuters, which viewed a copy of the charging sheet. No reason was given why the offense was considered aggravated or regarding the disposition of the 41-year-old participant in the alleged sex act.

According to a charge sheet seen by Reuters, the defendant was charged August 18 with aggravated homosexuality after he "performed unlawful sexual intercourse" with a 41-year-old man. It did not specify why the act was considered aggravated.

A spokesperson for the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions confirmed to Reuters the charged man is facing the death penalty if convicted.

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Since it is a capital offense triable by the High Court, the charge was read out and explained to him in the Magistrates Court on [the] 18th and he was remanded, spokesperson Jacqueline Okui told Reuters.

The mans lawyer, Justine Balya, told Reuters four other individuals have been charged under the new law but that her client is the first to be charged with aggravated homosexuality. She declined further comment on the case other than to state she believes the law to be unconstitutional.

The Anti-Homosexuality Bill, 2023 was passed by the Uganda Parliament and signed into law by President Yoweri Museveni in May. The law calls for the death penalty in cases of aggravated homosexuality, which refers to repeat offenders and people living with HIV engaging in same-sex sexual relations. People found to be engaging in acts of homosexuality can be sentenced to life in prison.

The speaker of the Parliament, Anita Annet, celebrated the bills signing, saying Parliament had answered the cries of our people.

I thank His Excellency, the president, for his steadfast action in the interest of Uganda, Annet said at the time. With a lot of humility, I thank my colleagues the Members of Parliament for withstanding all the pressure from bullies and doomsday conspiracy theorists in the interest of the country, she added.

President Joe Biden condemned the law in May, calling it a tragic violation of universal human rights  one that is not worthy of the Ugandan people, and one that jeopardizes the prospects of critical economic growth for the entire country. He called for its immediate repeal and declared, No one should have to live in constant fear for their life or being subjected to violence and discrimination.

In August, the World Bank cut off new funding to Uganda over the new law.

Ugandas Anti-Homosexuality Act fundamentally contradicts the World Bank Groups values, the World Bank said in a statement at the time. We believe our vision to eradicate poverty on a livable planet can only succeed if it includes everyone irrespective of race, gender, or sexuality. This law undermines those efforts. Inclusion and non-discrimination sit at the heart of our work around the world.

The new law is facing a legal challenge in the Uganda courts. In 2014, the Constitutional Court of Uganda annulled the similar Anti-Homosexual Act of 2014, albeit on procedural grounds  for the manner in which it was enacted. That law criminalized same-sex sexual relations and marriage equality, and called for the extradition of individuals outside the country who violated the law while in Uganda. When it was pending, it was known for a time as the kill the gays bill, but a section providing for the death penalty was removed by the time it was passed.
Hours after a Georgia judge said former President Donald Trump and 18 other people are scheduled to be arraigned next week in the state's election interference case, the first defendant pleaded not guilty.

Ray Smith, an attorney who represented Trump in 2020 Georgia cases, waived his Sept. 6 arraignment in a Fulton County court filing Monday.

Smith was indicted this month along with Trump and 17 other people. They are accused of criminal wrongdoing in connection with attempts to overturn the 2020 presidential election results in the battleground state of Georgia.

Ray Smith. (Fulton County Sheriff's Office)

Smith is charged with 12 counts  three of solicitation of violation of oath by public officer, two of making false statements, two of first-degree conspiracy to commit forgery, two of conspiracy to commit false statements and writings, one of violation of the Georgia RICO Act, one of conspiracy to commit filing false documents and one of conspiracy to commit impersonating public officer.

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He surrendered Wednesday and was released after having posted a $50,000 bond.

Smiths attorney said in Monday's filing, first reported by CNN, that Smith's legal team understands that he will be excused from appearing in court for his scheduled arraignment.

The attorney, Amanda Clark Palmer, did not immediately respond to a request for comment Monday night.

A judge said Monday that Trump, along with Rudy Giuliani and other allies of the former president, are scheduled to be arraigned Sept. 6 in 15-minute increments. Trump is scheduled to be arraigned at 9:30 a.m., according to the schedule. It's not yet clear whether Trumps arraignment will be in person or virtual.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
Five people killed in Pueblo over the weekend  one in a homicide Sunday and four in two separate car wrecks Saturday  were identified Monday by the county coroner.

The first death occurred early Saturday morning when Raymond Gallegos, 70, was killed after being struck by a vehicle in the 2000 block of North Hudson Avenue. Pueblo Police Department spokesperson Sgt. Frank Ortega told the Chieftain that the crash was reported by the driver. No other injuries were reported and no charges are being pressed on the driver as of Monday, Ortega said.

Saturday evening, in the 800 block of North Purcell Boulevard, 56-year-old Marie Quintana and her 12-year-old grandchild, both of Aurora, as well as 48-year-old Denver resident Jesus Guerrero Lopez, were killed in a two-vehicle wreck.

Pueblo County sheriffs deputies were called to the scene of the crash at approximately 8 p.m. Saturday.

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At the scene, they learned a 2017 Honda CRV had been traveling north on Purcell Boulevard when it was hit head-on by a 2015 BMW 550 that was traveling south but had drifted into the northbound lane of traffic, according to a Pueblo County Sheriffs Office news release. All three of the vehicle's occupants were pronounced dead at the scene.

The driver and lone occupant of the BMW, a 32-year-old man, was transported to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. The PCSO said in its initial news release that speed and alcohol were being investigated as factors in the crash. The sheriffs office continues to investigate and spokesperson Gayle Perez told the Chieftain Monday that no charging decision has yet been made.

Early Sunday morning, Jason Trujillo, 36, was killed by a gunshot wound during a multi-victim shooting in the 1200 block of Berwind Avenue.

Pueblo police were called to the scene just before 1 a.m. on a report of a shooting, according to a Pueblo PD news release, and found Trujillo dead at the scene.

Three additional victims arrived at an area hospital via a private vehicle, according to Pueblo PD, two of whom were then transported to another hospital in Colorado Springs with life-threatening injuries.

Ortega said both victims taken to Colorado Springs were still alive and recovering in the hospital as of 4 p.m. Monday.

Ortega told the Chieftain that the investigation is active and ongoing, but police believe the shooting may have been gang related. He said police believe there was more than one shooter and that lots of physical evidence was collected at the scene.

The homicide was the 19th in the city of Pueblo in 2023.

Anyone with information on the shooting is encouraged by Pueblo PD to contact police dispatch at 719-553-2502, or Detective Ryan Torres at 719-320-6037. To remain anonymous, contact Pueblo Crime Stoppers at 719-542-STOP (719-542-7867) or visit pueblocrimestoppers.com. Information that leads to a felony arrest could qualify its submitting party for a cash reward.

More public safety news: Trial begins for Pueblo man accused of first-degree murder in 2022 shooting

Questions, comments, or story tips? Contact Justin at jreutterma@gannett.com. Follow him on Twitter @jayreutter1. Support local news, subscribe to The Pueblo Chieftain a tsubscribe.chieftain.com.

This article originally appeared on The Pueblo Chieftain: Victims in homicide, fatal crashes identified by Pueblo coroner
Two juveniles face a delinquency charge of felony intimidation in connection with a vague threat made against Chesterton High School Tuesday morning, according to a release on the Chesterton Police Departments Facebook page.

The threat, the nature of which police did not disclose, was made to the Duneland School Corporations new Say Something Anonymous Reporting System, prompting CHS staff and CPD school resource officers to begin an immediate investigation.

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In a timely fashion, officers and staff learned that the tip was not credible and that there was no threat to school safety, police said in the release.

Two juvenile students were found to be responsible for the false tip during the course of the investigation Tuesday morning. After consulting with Porter County Prosecutor Gary Germann and his staff, the two students were charged with intimidation.

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Intimidation, when the charge is filed against an adult, is a Level 6 felony punishable by a term of six to 30 months.

Id like to praise the quick actions of both the Duneland School Corporations staff and administrative team as well as the school resource officers assigned to the Duneland School Corporation, Police Chief Tim Richardson said in the release.

Reporting false threats or accusations disrupt the educational process and there are serious school and legal consequences for individuals who falsely report, CHS Principal Brent Martinson added in the release.

The students responsible for this threat have been criminally charged. In accordance with Indiana law, they will be recommended for expulsion from Chesterton High School for the remainder of the school year, Martinson said. We understand that these situations can be unsettling, and we appreciate your patience and cooperation throughout this process. It is essential that we continue to prioritize the safety of our campus and maintain a vigilant and proactive stance when it comes to security.
When Belmont Fire Department firefighters return to the station after responding to a stressful call, they can always rely on Flame to cheer them up.

Flame the Arson Cat strolls around the firehouse for attention and entertaining firefighters. Sometimes, he plays around the big firetrucks or shows firefighters affection by rubbing around their legs.

Flame is the department's full-time firefighter support animal.

He was found about 10 years ago by a firefighter. He was malnourished and needed medical attention. Flame went to the vet for his shots and to be neutered. He started coming to the fire department, and it is now his home.

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"The main impact is that we have a famous animal here in Greenville," said Gina Thompson, a firefighter EMT and Flame's primary caretaker. "I see people still comment saying, 'Oh my gosh, I live a couple blocks away,' and people don't realize. Even the people who aren't cat people truly adore him."

Gina Thompson, 22, fire fighter and EMT at Belmont Fire Department, holds Flame at the fire station where he lives on Wednesday, Aug. 9, 2023. Flame has lived at the station for nearly a decade. Thompson, Flame's caretaker, will take him home after his retirement.

Flame the Arson Cat: ASPCA, Jackson Galaxy, Animal Planet are fans

Thompson said Flame's rise to fame was in 2014 when Instagram celebrities were on the rise. She said some staff decided to make Flame an account for fun.

Out of nowhere, his page expanded with followers and likes. Flame has more than 100,000 followers on Instagram. That's when his fame brought him to the attention of the news media.

"A Facebook group first got ahold of him, and that's when it first took off," Thompson said. "Jackson Galaxy came to the station, and he won the 2017 (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) ASPCA's 'Animal of the Year' and was flown to New York. It's amazing he has fans internationally. We get messages saying, 'Good morning from France,' from Japan or Australia.' "

The ASPCA's "Animal of the Year" is an award honoring animals and people who have made significant strides in advancing animal welfare and positively impacting the lives of others.

Danielle Forney, senior manager of Media and Communications with ASPCA, said Flame and his story of being a firefighter companion stood out.

Flame walks through the fire engine bay at Belmont Fire Department where he lives on Wednesday, Aug. 9, 2023. Flame has lived at the station for nearly a decade.

"We honored Flame for bringing companionship and comfort to the firefighters, even during the most stressful and tragic moments and for participating in educational events with local children," Forney said. "Flame has inspired the fire department to encourage adoption and spay/neuter of local animals.

Flame was also in the spotlight, starring in the film project "Cat Daddies." The film is a heartwarming documentary, sharing the story of a group of men who find compassion and companionship through cats during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Flame also appeared on television's Animal Planet, where he was called a cat from Heaven by Jackson Galaxy, host of "My Cat from Hell."

Flame made headlines in 2018 when he used one of his nine lives and became stuck in a drain pipe. Thompson said they had to call their neighboring fire department to rescue him.

"It was a bad winter storm, and he was probably trying to find a quick place to stay warm," Thompson said. "It wasn't normal to not see him, and when they went outside, they heard screaming meows. We called our neighboring department, they got their equipment to rescue him and they finally got him out."

Dalmatians aren't the only firehouse pets

Flame was found a decade ago by staff at the fire department, where he appeared weak and malnourished. Firefighters offered him leftovers of what was in the fridge, and the rest was history.

"They were scared to tell the chief at first, but he (Flame) was so loving," Thompson said. "Everybody took to him, and he took to everybody."

Flame has provided endless support for the community and for the fire department. Thompson said Flame is always there for them, especially after a difficult call or a long day.

"He's truly a stress reliever for everyone here," Thompson said. "I feel like he brings happiness to people. We've come back from calls, and just having Flame rubbing against you or just curled up in your lap really does help."

Flame is almost ready for his retirement party

The Belmont Fire Department is open to the public and allows fans to come and meet Flame. The department requests those interested in visiting to arrive at reasonable hours.

On Oct. 14, the Belmont Fire Department will host an anniversary party for the District's 55th year. The event will also include a retirement party for Flame. The event will be held from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Belmont Fire Department, 701 Fork Shoals Road in Greenville.

Flame explores the Belmont Fire Department grounds where he lives on Wednesday, Aug. 9, 2023. Flame has lived at the station for nearly a decade.

Flame's retirement does not mean the 11-year-old is leaving. Thompson said that once Flame retires, she will adopt him and become his full-time caretaker.

"Even though we're officially open to the public every day of the year, we really look forward to events like these," Fire Chief Anthony Segars said. "It gives our staff a chance to showcase our equipment and make sure we get fire safety literature into the hands of our stakeholders. This open house will be extra special to us, as we retire our beloved Flame."

Reach Joanna Johnson via email at jjohnson@shj.com.

This article originally appeared on Herald-Journal: Belmont Fire Department's cat Flame has appeared in a movie and on TV
Florida is feeling Hurricane Idalias gusty winds and rain as the storm treks closer to the state.

The National Hurricane Center predicts Idalia will strengthen into a Category 4 storm before making landfall Wednesday on Floridas west coast, likely in the Big Bend area. And while Idalias impact will be felt far from the center, generally speaking, the worst weather will typically occur on the storms dirty side.

But no matter where you are in the state, expect Idalia to bring some gloomy and nasty weather  rain, strong winds, some tornadoes, and life-threatening storm surge along the west coast.

Heres the forecast by region:

South Florida

Theres good news for South Florida: While Idalia will bring some stormy weather to the region, it wont be too bad.

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For Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach counties, the worst weather was felt Tuesday afternoon through the night as Idalias outer bands approached the region from the west, according to Sammy Hadi, a meteorologist for the National Weather Service in Miami.

What to expect: heavy rain, thunderstorms, some possible isolated tornadoes and winds between 10 to 25 mph, Hadi said. And while South Florida wont see sustained tropical storm force winds, gusts of more than 40 mph will be possible and a few tornado warnings may be issued, he said.

Nearly all of Miami-Dade was under a severe thunderstorm warning until 5:30 p.m. Tuesday. Forecasters reported 55 to 65 mph winds in the south parts of the county.

Severe Thunderstorm Warning including Miami FL, Hialeah FL and Miami Gardens FL until 5:30 PM EDT. This storm will contain wind gusts to 70 MPH! pic.twitter.com/htyDjmgXlo  NWS Miami (@NWSMiami) August 29, 2023

The highest gusts will likely happen on Wednesday, according to the weather services hazardous weather outlook.

Heres how much rain to expect:

The forecast is calling for a 70% chance of rain Tuesday night in Miami-Dade and a 60% chance of rain in Broward, with new rainfall amounts between a tenth and quarter of an inch, with higher amounts possible during thunderstorms. In Palm Beach County, theres a 50% chance of rain Tuesday night.

On Wednesday, which is when Idalia is forecast to make landfall on Floridas Gulf Coast, South Florida will likely just feel its trail of moisture from the far-off storm, Hadi said.

The forecast is calling for an 80% chance of rain Wednesday in Miami-Dade and 70% chance of rain in Broward, with new rainfall amounts between a tenth and quarter of an inch, with higher amounts possible in thunderstorms. The rain chances drop to 50% Wednesday night in Miami-Dade and 40% in Broward. Palm Beach County has a 70% chance of rain, with new rainfall amounts between a half and three quarters of an inch possible.

NOAA satellite imagery shows Hurricane Idalia in the Gulf of Mexico Tuesday, Aug. 29, 2023.

The Florida Keys

Idalias squalls spread over portions of the Lower Keys, which are under a tropical storm watch. The worst weather will likely occur Tuesday through mid-day Wednesday, according to the Keys weather service.

NWS Keys Meteorologist Nancy Barnhardt said squalls between 40 to 60 mph have been recorded so far in the Keys, with one to two inches of rain possible, with coastal flooding expected to continue.

Here is a preliminary look at the winds observed across the Florida Keys after the first rainband passage across the Lower Keys. Peak gusts were observed offshore at Sand Key. Please use caution this afternoon through Wednesday when driving due to windy and squally conditions. pic.twitter.com/XSaXpUs4o9  NWS Key West (@NWSKeyWest) August 29, 2023

Key West, for example, is forecast to see 70% chance of rain Tuesday night and Wednesday. Gusts could be as high as 30 mph Tuesday night, and 20 mph on Wednesday.

The Florida Keys could see 1 to 2 feet of storm surge above ground if the peak surge occurs at the time of high tide, according to the National Hurricane Center. A coastal flood warning is in effect until at least 2 p.m. Wednesday in the Lower Keys.

The combination of king tides and strong southerly breezes, will result in coastal flooding across the Lower Keys, but especially the vulnerable Atlantic side neighborhoods of Key West, according to the Keys hazardous weather outlook. Peak water levels will reach a little over 2 feet above mean high tide. Observations from the vulnerable neighborhoods of Key West this morning confirm these peak water levels.

Take the necessary actions to protect flood-prone property. If travel is required, do not drive around barricades or throughwater of unknown depth, the weather service states.

North Florida

According to Mark Wool, the warning coordination meteorologist at the Tallahassee office of the National Weather Service, North Florida will start to feel effects as early as 4 a.m. Wednesday.

Sustained tropical storm force winds are likely to start closer to 7 a.m. Wednesday, but Wool stressed that residents should be 100% prepared by the time they go to bed Tuesday night in case the effects start earlier in the morning.

Those who need to evacuate homes should do so before they go to bed Tuesday night. The worst of the storm will likely come in the daylight hours of the morning and into the early afternoon, Wool said.

The coast around Apalachee Bay will be hit with severe, life-threatening storm surges. Coastal areas to the southeast of the Aucilla River will likely see 10 to 15 feet of storm surge. The other side of the Aucilla River, including the coastal areas directly south of Tallahassee, will see 6 to 9 feet of flooding.

A hurricane warning, which means that hurricane conditions are expected in the area, is in place in areas from the middle of Longboat Key northward to Indian Pass.

The weather should start improving in the afternoon, and conditions will likely be better by Wednesday night.

However, this doesnt mean that its safe to go outside. Even after winds subside, there will be downed wires, fallen trees and utility crews in the streets.

Residents should be prepared to shelter in place until officials inform them that its safe, and should expect power outages.

Matlacha resident Rachel Godbout, 42, said that she was preparing to evacuate her home Tuesday morning, August 29, 2023. Her family was taking precautions due to the possibility of flooding and wind damage from the potential impact of Hurricane Idalia around the area.

Northeast Florida

The worst of the storm will likely hit Northeast Florida around 10 a.m. Wednesday, said Danny DuBois, a meteorologist at the National Weather Center office in Jacksonville.

Residents of northeastern Florida should have already finished their preparations.

Those in the area will likely start feeling tropical storm force winds around 2 to 3 a.m. Wednesday.

The areas to the west of Jacksonville will see around 4-8 inches of rain, according to DuBois. The Jacksonville area will see 1.5 to 2 inches, while the coast will see 1 to 1.5 inches.

The flooding will likely not be major, but the winds are expected to be strong.

Improvements should come 7 to 8 p.m. Wednesday in the Jacksonville area.

Edna Ramirez carries a shovel full sand to a bagging station as people were doing the same at the Dunnellon Public Works site on Bostick Street Tuesday morning, August 29, 2023. On Monday, Dunnellon had filled 1500 bags while on Tuesday that had given out 2500 bags by noon. [Doug Engle/Ocala Star Banner]2023

Tampa Bay

By 9 p.m. Tuesday, the Tampa Bay area should be feeling tropical storm winds, said Yidiana Zayas, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Tampa. But the worst effects from Idalia will happen overnight between 2 and 4 a.m. Wednesday. Tampa is about two hours south of Cedar Key, where Idalia is projected to make landfall.

There will be about 30 to 40 mph winds with gusts up to 70 mph, Zayas said. If youre closer to the coast, you should expect winds that are more like Category 1 hurricane.

The region is also under a flood watch, with about 4 to 8 inches of flooding rains expected. Theres also potential for life-threatening storm surge  and a threat of tornadoes.

Tampa Bay Area: Heres a county by county look at potential storm surge. If you live west of US 19 in Citrus, Hernando & Pasco theres a good chance you will have significant street and house flooding. In Tampa Bay theres a chance we may have record water levels. Be safe! @WFLA pic.twitter.com/w1QFS3AtTX  Jeff Berardelli (@WeatherProf) August 29, 2023

Storm surge remains the same at 4 to 7 feet above ground through Thursday morning with the high tide combination, Zayas said.

The NWS is also warning area residents of roads becoming impassable due to debris in urban or heavily wooded areas as well as scattered power outages.

The chance of rain on Wednesday is 100%. Showers and thunderstorms are expected before 3 p.m. and after 3 p.m. The weather service predicts Thursdays weather will be about the same. By Friday the chance of rain dips to 90% and will continue decreasing later into the week.

A man sleeps after arriving to the hurricane shelter at Vanguard High School Tuesday morning August 29, 2023 in Ocala, FL in preparation for Hurricane Idalias arrival. [Doug Engle/Ocala Star Banner]2023

Central Florida





Central Florida, including Orlando, should see the worst from Idalia by 2 a.m. Wednesday, said Kole Fehling, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Melbourne, which oversees forecasts for Orlando.

Conditions are going to deteriorate this evening, into the night [and] tomorrow morning, Fehling said Tuesday.

Janice Kmetz of Bonita Springs takes a photo of water from the Vanderbilt Channel flooding a sidewalk as Hurricane Idalia passes Naples during a king tide on Tuesday, Aug. 29, 2023.

The region should expect tropical storm force-winds from 25 to 35 mph with gusts up to 45 mph. About 2 to 3 inches of rain are projected. Theres also a potential for moderate flooding rain and tornadoes.

8/29/23 11 AM | Little change to Idalia's track with the latest update. Threats to east central Florida remain the same. Conditions will start to deteriorate this afternoon, so be sure to have multiple ways of receiving weather alerts! (1/2) pic.twitter.com/nHEaNjUtkc  NWS Melbourne (@NWSMelbourne) August 29, 2023

The weather service is also warning area residents of roads becoming impassable due to debris in urban or heavily wooded areas as well as scattered power outages.

The chance of rain on Wednesday is 80%, with possible showers and thunderstorms. Weather conditions will remain the same Thursday and Friday. Rain chances, however, will drop to 50% by Saturday.

Miami Herald Reporter Devoun Cetoute contributed to this report.
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (AP)  Ron DeSantis scoffed when the NAACP issued a travel advisory this spring warning Black people to use extreme care if traveling to Florida.

The leading civil rights group argued that the state's loose gun laws and the Republican governor's anti-woke campaign to deny the existence of systemic racism created a culture of open hostility towards African Americans and people of color."

Just three months later, DeSantis is leading his state through the aftermath of a racist attack that left three African Americans dead. Black leaders in Florida  and across the nation  say theyre outraged by his actions and rhetoric ahead of the shooting.

Gov. DeSantis has created and pushed a narrative of division and hate that is anti-Black, said Rev. Jeffrey Rumlin, pastor of The Dayspring Church in Jacksonville, where three Black people were gunned down at a Dollar General store over the weekend by a white man with a swastika emblazoned on his assault rifle.

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Rumlin criticized DeSantis for not explicitly describing the killer as a racist at a Sunday vigil in Jacksonville. DeSantis was booed at the vigil, where he called the shooter a major-league scumbag and said, We are not going to let people be targeted based on their race.

The Florida governor, also responding this week to a hurricane bearing down on much of his state, has confronted multiple challenges on race since launching his presidential campaign. He has been criticized by Republican rivals on Florida's new education standards on slavery while losing ground against former President Donald Trump, the front-runner in the GOP primary.

Ever defiant, DeSantis' team rejected suggestions that he did not adequately condemn the weekend shooting and has more broadly ignored the concerns of the state's African American community. The Republican governor scored an overwhelming reelection last fall that included flipping the traditional Democratic stronghold of Miami-Dade County, which has a majority Latino population. He made modest gains among Black voters.

This shooting was a terrible tragedy, and it is reprehensible that The Associated Press has decided to collect and amplify false talking points as reporting on this horrific event," said DeSantis campaign spokesman Bryan Griffin. "Ron DeSantis has condemned these racially motivated murders repeatedly in the strongest language possible.  He will not tolerate racial hatred or violence in Florida, and we reject your politicization of this horrible event.

The tragedy cast a shadow across the Republican presidential campaign this week as candidates faced uncomfortable questions about the party's increasing appeal among white supremacists and the GOP's fight against so-called woke policies on race and gender. While DeSantis has not mentioned his war on woke in recent days, cultural issues have been the centerpiece of his campaign.

Virtually all of the candidates have embraced a similar message aimed at appealing to the GOP's white conservative base by downplaying the existence of racism in America and restricting LGBTQ rights. To win the general election next fall, the Republican nominee will likely need to appeal to a much more diverse group of voters. But the primary fight wont be decided for several months.

Sen. Tim Scott, one of three Black Republicans running for president, called on his party to speak out against the latest tragedy as he campaigned in his home state of South Carolina.

I think we should all be standing up and saying that any act of violence against someone very purely because of the color of your skin is terrible," he told reporters. "We saw three African Americans die because of the color of their skin over the weekend. Thats devastating.

He avoided answering directly when asked if the Republican Party has done enough to denounce white supremacist violence.

The question is, have humans done enough to talk about racism and discrimination and the use of violence? And I think thats the responsibility of every single American  the Republican Party, Democrat Party, no party affiliation," Scott said.

In a radio interview with conservative commentator Hugh Hewitt, former United Nations ambassador Nikki Haley said there was no clear explanation for such violence.

Theres a lot of hate online with social media. Weve got a lot of mental health issues. And you combine that with the rhetoric that is happening in America of division and just being able to hide behind something on social media and getting angry, it causes for a bad cocktail," said Haley, who was serving as South Carolina's governor when a racist gunman attacked a Black church and killed nine people. And when you get that, people die.

Haley, whose parents immigrated to South Carolina from India, declared in her presidential announcement speech that America is not a racist nation.

Republicans have little political incentive to appeal to voters of color  in the primary phase of the presidential campaign, at least.

One-third of Americans (35%) say racism is a very big problem in the United States, according to a June poll from the Pew Research Center. Just 14% of Republicans see racism as a very significant issue compared with 55% of Democrats.

Meanwhile, one quarter of Republicans believe that being white hurts a person's ability to get ahead, according to an April study from the Pew Research Center. Republicans are about as likely to say that being Black helps (33%) a persons ability to get ahead in the U.S. as to say it hurts (34%) their ability to advance.

African American leaders have decried what they call a pattern of policy violence against people of color imposed by the DeSantis administration that reached a low point after the recent release of its public school curriculum on Black history.

Florida State House Democratic Leader Fentrice Driskell argued DeSantis policies on race combine to embolden racists and extremists.

She pointed to the Republican governor's Stop-WOKE Act, which limits discussions of race in schools and businesses; his banning of diversity and equity inclusion at Florida colleges; and the newly approved Black history curriculum that suggests there were benefits to slavery. She also noted DeSantis loosening of gun laws, including a new law that allows people to carry guns without a permit or training.

Weve given warnings  dont pass this legislation because it will only inflame tensions, dont pass this bad bill because it will promote vigilantism, dont do this because it will divide our communities, Driskell said. He has courted support from the far right. He plays footsies with it. This rhetoric was always going to lead to violence.

Democratic Rep. Angie Nixon, who represents the district where the weekend murders took place, oscillated between angry shouts, tears and profanity as she condemned DeSantis in an interview.

He refuses to use the word Black. He refuses to call that man a racist. He calls him a scumbag. No!" Nixon said. Hes tiptoeing around the true issue because hes worried that his poll numbers will drop with the base of voters that he has religiously went after.

DeSantis derided the NAACP's travel advisory as a political stunt back in May when he launched his presidential campaign.

Claiming that Florida is unsafe is a total farce, DeSantis said in a conversation with Elon Musk. I mean, are you kidding me? You look at cities around this country, they are awash in crime. In Florida, our crime rate is at a 50-year low."

On Monday, NAACP President Derrick Johnson said DeSantis deserves real blame for the weekend shooting.

What Gov. DeSantis has done is created an atmosphere for such tragedies to take place, Johnson said. This is exactly why we issued the travel advisory.

___ Peoples reported from New York. AP writers Linley Sanders in Washington; Meg Kinnard in Charleston, South Carolina; and Michelle L. Price in Indian Land, South Carolina, contributed to this report.
When Florida rejected a new Advanced Placement course on African American Studies, state officials said they objected to the study of several concepts  like reparations, the Black Lives Matter movement and queer theory.

But the state did not say that in many instances, its reviewers also made objections in the states attempt to sanitize aspects of slavery and the plight of African Americans throughout history, according to a Miami Herald/Tampa Bay Times review of internal state comments.

For example, a lesson in the Advanced Placement course focused on how Europeans benefited from trading enslaved people and the materials enslaved laborers produced. The state objected to the content, saying the instructional approach may lead to a viewpoint of an oppressor vs. oppressed based solely on race or ethnicity.

In another lesson about the beginnings of slavery, the course delved into how tens of thousands of enslaved Africans had been removed from the continent to work on Portuguese-colonized Atlantic islands and in Europe and how those plantations became a model for slave-based economy in the Americans.

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READ MORE: DeSantis says AP African-American studies class was pushing an agenda

In response, the state raised concerns that the unit may not address the internal slave trade/system within Africa and that it may only present one side of this issue and may not offer any opposing viewpoints or other perspectives on the subject.

There is no other perspective on slavery other than it was brutal, said Mary Pattillo, a sociology professor and the department chair of Black Studies at Northwestern University. Pattillo is one of several scholars the Herald/Times interviewed during its review of the states comments about the AP African American Studies curriculum.

It was exploitative, it dehumanized Black people, it expropriated their labor and wealth for generations to come. There is no other side to that in African American studies. If theres another side, it may be in some other field. I dont know what field that is because I would argue there is no other side to that in higher education, Pattillo said.

Alexander Weheliye, African American studies professor at Brown University, said the evaluators comments on the units about slavery were a complete distortion and whitewashing of what happened historically.

Its really trying to go back to an earlier historical moment, where slavery was mainly depicted by white historians through a white perspective. So to say that the enslaved and the sister African nations and kingdoms and white colonizers and enslavers were the same really misrecognizes the fundamentals of the situation, Weheliye said.

The objections are an example of how Florida education officials are enforcing broad state laws and rules that restrict how schools can teach about racism and other aspects of history  and how the College Boards pilot African American Studies course became a casualty of those policies.

Gov. Ron DeSantis addresses the crowd before publicly signing HB 7, individual freedom, also dubbed the Stop Woke bill during a news conference at Mater Academy Charter Middle/High School in Hialeah Gardens, on April 22, 2022.

DeSantis efforts to transform education in Florida

The commentary is also an example of how Gov. Ron DeSantis has transformed the states education system in his quest to end what he calls wokeism and liberal indoctrination in schools  a fight that began in the aftermath of the pandemic and the Black Lives Matter movement that followed the high-profile murder of George Floyd at the hands of police in Minnesota.

Its not really about the course right? Its kind of about putting down Black struggles for equality and freedom that have been going on for centuries at this point in time and making them into something that they are not through this kind of distorted rightist lens, Weheliye said.

When asked about the findings of the previously unreported internal reviews, the Florida Department of Education said the course was rejected after state officials found that several parts of the course were unsuitable for Florida students.

Cailey Myers, a spokesperson for the agency, cited the work of many Black writers and scholars associated with the academic concepts of critical race theory, queerness and intersectionality  a term that she said ranks people based on their race, wealth, gender and sexual orientation. The term, however, refers to the way different social categorizations can interact with discrimination.

Brandi Waters, the executive director of the AP African American Studies course, said it is hard to understand the Florida Department of Educations critiques on the content because state officials have not directly shared their internal reviews with the College Board. The state and the College Board, however, were in communication about the course for several months before it was rejected.

Waters maintains the coursework submitted to the state was the most holistic introduction to African American Studies.

This course really gives students an opportunity to go deep, Waters said. It gives them the skill set to look at a wider range of primary sources that capture African American lives and experiences, and also refutes the notion that theres one side against another, but really that there are multiple sides and we should look very deeply into all aspects of any historical process.

Jayden Burnett, 6, of Pembroke Pines looks at a slave whip at the Sankofa: African American Museum on Wheels exhibit, which was on display at the Southwest Regional Library in Pembroke Pines on February 28, 2007. Shackles from a slave ship are beneath the whip.

A deeper look at Floridas objections

The course materials provided by the College Board were reviewed by Florida Department of Educations Bureau of Standards and Instructional Support and the decision to reject the course was made by FDOE senior leadership, records show.

John Duebel, the director of the state agencys social studies department, and Kevin Hoeft, a former state agency official who now works at the New College of Florida in Sarasota, were identified as the two evaluators in the review. Hoeft is listed as an expert consultant to the Civics Alliance, a national conservative group that aims to focus social studies instruction in the Western canon and eliminate woke standards. His wife is a member of the conservative group Moms for Liberty.

Duebel declined to comment on the story and referred questions to the Department of Education, which did not respond. Hoeft did not respond to a request seeking comment. While the documents say that Duebel and Hoeft led the state reviews, much of the comments included in the state review are not attributed, making it hard to tell who said what.

The documents reviewed were provided to the Herald/Times by American Oversight, a left-leaning research organization that sued the state Department of Education for the records.

We sued the Florida Department of Education to shed light on the DeSantis administrations efforts to whitewash American history and turn classrooms into political battlegrounds, American Oversight Deputy Executive Director Chioma Chukwu said in a statement. The records obtained by American Oversight from Floridas internal review of the AP African American Studies course expose the dangers of Gov. DeSantis sweeping changes to public education in Florida, including preventing students from learning history free from partisan spin.

READ MORE: How a small, conservative Michigan college is helping DeSantis reshape education in Florida

The documents offer more detail into the states reasoning for rejecting the pilot course from being offered to high school students in Florida  and how topics related to racism, identity and gender were continually flagged out of concern that lessons were biased, misleading or inappropriate for students.

And, in cases where state officials did not find a violation of a state law or rule, concerns were often raised about how educators would teach the content, underscoring the growing distrust between state officials and educators as disputes over social issues engulf local school politics.

For example, the state worried educators teaching about how the 1960s Black is Beautiful movement helped lay a foundation for multicultural and ethnic studies movements, could possibly teach that rejecting cultural assimilation, and promoting multiculturalism and ethnic studies are current worthy objectives for African Americans today.

This type of instruction tends to divide Americans rather than unify Americans around the universal principles in the Declaration of Independence, the state officials wrote about a lesson in the course.

Records also show how some of the comments made by the state evaluators contained contradictions, such as advocating for primary sources and then later writing that certain primary sources contained factual misrepresentations. Many comments from the state pushed for the material to include perspectives from the other side but failed to elaborate whose perspective they wanted to be added.

Overall, there were various statements made by evaluators that attempted to whitewash some of the history lessons introduced in the course materials and to discredit the racism and discrimination mentioned.

A statue of Harriet Tubman, created by StudioEIS, in the Old House of Delegates Chamber at the Maryland State House, Feb. 10, 2020. The statue, along with one of Frederick Douglass, commemorates the abolition of slavery in Maryland on November 1, 1864.

Slavery

One of the lessons in the course, for example, set out to teach students how slavery set back Black peoples ability to build wealth.

Enslaved African Americans had no wages to pass down to descendants, no legal right to accumulate property, and individual exceptions depended on their enslavers whims, the College Boards lesson plan said.

When reviewing the content, however, state reviewers said the lesson plan might violate state laws and rules because it supposes that no slaves or their descendants accumulated any wealth.

This is not true and may be promoting the critical race theory idea of reparations, state officials wrote in documents reviewed by the Herald/Times. This topic presents one side of this issue and does not offer any opposing viewpoints or other perspectives on the subject.

While there were scattered instances where enslaved people were given the chance to earn money to pay for their freedom, the wealth they accumulated still did not belong to them, said Paul Finkelman, the editor-in-chief of Oxford University Press Encyclopedia of African American History 1619-1895.

Under the law of every slave state, including Florida, no slave could own anything. That is, slaves did not own the clothes on their back. They did not own the shoes on their feet, said Finkelman. So for the Florida Education Department to question whether slaves accumulated property is to not understand that slaves owned no property. In fact, they were property belonging to slave owners.

Even in cases where slaves were allowed to make money, Finkelman argued, it would be a stretch to say they were able to accumulate wealth.

Suppose you work very hard, raising chickens on your own and you make money over 20 years and you give all that money to the person who has owned you and that person says fine, youre free. Does that mean youve accumulated wealth? Does that mean youve benefited from the system of slavery? You now have nothing, except your own freedom, Finkelman said. And by the way, the slave owner may say, but of course, your wife and children still belong to me.

The entrance to the Slave Market and Museum in Charleston, South Carolina.

Black middle class

Evaluators also objected to a lesson plan that taught how Black Americans, even after slavery, continue to experience wealth disparities due to ongoing discrimination.

The coursework included the following statement: Despite the growth of the Black middle class, substantial disparities in wealth along racial lines remain. Discrimination and racial disparities in housing and employment stemming from the early 20th century limited Black communities accumulation of generational wealth in the second half of the 20th century.

State reviewers, however, said the unit could potentially violate state rules because it failed to offer other reasons outside of systemic racism and discrimination for the wealth disparity between Black Americans and other racial groups.

The only required resource in this topic cites systemic racism, discrimination, systemic barriers, structural barriers, and structural racism as a primary or significant causative factor explaining this disparity of wealth, wrote one evaluator. This topic appears to be one-sided as non-critical perspectives or competing opinions are cited to explain this wealth disparity.

Pattillo said that while many of the comments made by the state in the review claimed that they wanted to see more balance of perspectives in the course materials, she felt state officials largely tried to minimize the topics of discrimination.

I dont think thats what the Florida evaluators or legislators are after, said Pattillo. Theyre after, if not a complete silencing of, then definitely a reduction in attention to the violence and discrimination and exclusion that Black people have experienced in this country.

On the stormy night of April 3, 1968, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his last public speech. King told a Memphis audience of more than 2,000 at Mason Temple that the April 8 march must be held as planned to refocus attention on the strike. He said Memphis has refused to be honest with its public servants who happen to be garbage men. The speech has become known as the Mountaintop speech. Sitting next to him in this photograph was one of his aides, Jesse Jackson. Like anybody, I would like to live a long life. Longevity has its place. But Im not concerned about that now. I just want to do Gods will. And Hes allowed me to go up to the mountain, and Ive looked over, and Ive seen the Promised Land. I may not get there with you. But I want you to know tonight that we, as a people, will get to the promised land.  Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

Abolitionist Movement

When it came to teaching students about the movement to end slavery, the College Board highlighted some of the prominent activists who led that abolitionist movement and the ways the government tried to stop those who resisted slavery.

Due to the high number of African Americans who fled enslavement, Congress enacted the Fugitive Slave Acts of 1793 and 1850, authorizing local governments to legally kidnap and return escaped refugees to their enslavers, the lesson plan stated.

A state evaluator, however, argued this unit about the abolitionist movement could violate state rules because it was not factually inclusive or balanced. The evaluator also made the comment that it would be more accurate to say the word owners rather than enslavers and that white men like Benjamin Franklin and John Jay should be cited as original activists for the abolition movement.

Benjamin Franklin in a portrait at the National Portrait Gallery in Washington, D.C.

Primary sources were scrutinized

When the College Board addressed the resistance to slavery, it wanted to teach students how to describe the features of 19th-century radical resistance strategies promoted by Black activists to demand change. In that unit, the state objected to two primary sources: The Appeal by David Walker and An Address to the Slaves of the United States by Henry Highland Garnet.

State reviewers said that The Appeal included content prohibited under Florida law, but does not offer more details; and that An Address to the Slaves of the United States contains factual mis-representations and potential violations of state rules.

They complain that this primary source is not historically accurate. Well, of course its not historically accurate because its a political speech. It is not a piece of history, but its a perfectly historically accurate primary source to understand the anger of a Black abolitionist, Finkelman said.

However, earlier in the review, the evaluators applauded the College Board for stating that anchoring the AP course in primary sources fosters an evidence-based learning environment and that the course will be focused on the works and documents of African American studies rather than extraneous political opinions or perspectives.

This is exactly how all courses are to be taught in the state of Florida and we commend [the] College Board on this position, wrote the state reviewer .

Scholars political leanings questioned

In one review, one of the state evaluators questioned the balance of the content because of the individuals the College Board picked to develop the coursework.

The committee members listed by the College Board ranged from professors at Ivy League schools and Historically Black Colleges and Universities, including Florida A&M University in Tallahassee, along with professors at other private and public universities across the country. The committee members also included some high school teachers.

View of Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University, a public and historically black university, in Tallahassee, Florida, on Monday, December 14, 2020.

But one of the evaluators had a gripe: they claimed that there were no conservative Black scholars. This was a concern because, as the state evaluator put it, there may not be an adequate level of intellectual balance.

Conservative and traditional liberal members may need to be added to the committees to bring balance and ensure compliance with Florida statutes, rules, and policies, the state evaluator wrote.

Waters said the College Board is focused on having scholars on their committees who are the leaders in the field of African American studies and that their political background isnt something they take into consideration.

In terms of the scholars, we never really asked them what is your political background?, Waters said. I dont assume that is a characteristic that remains static in a persons life over time.

What we do is look for scholars who represent the expertise needed for the course. So who is leading the field in how we understand the origins of the African diaspora? Who is leading the field in cutting edge research on unearthing new perspectives of the civil rights movement? We look for their expertise and also the different backgrounds that they represent, she added.

How did we get to this point?

While Florida law requires the study of African American history, the state reviews of the AP course show how the DeSantis administration and Republican policymakers are implementing changes to how schools can teach about race, slavery and other aspects of Black history.

In 2021, Florida barred lessons that deal with critical race theory, a 1980s legal concept that holds that racial disparities are systemic in the United States and not just a collection of individual prejudices. Critical race theory was not being taught in Florida schools. The state also barred lessons about The 1619 Project, a New York Times project that reexamines U.S. history by placing the consequences of slavery and contributions of Black Americans at the center.

A year later, the Republican-led Legislature approved a new law, known as the Stop W.O.K.E. Act, which prohibited instruction that could prompt students to feel discomfort about a historical event because of their race, ethnicity, sex or national origin.

To DeSantis, the restrictions are a necessary effort to protect students from what he sees as a cultural threat that, as he puts it, teaches kids to hate this country. But the policies have been widely criticized by Democrats, educators, historians and even a few Republican lawmakers who see the laws as an attempt to distort historic events.

State officials interpretation of these policies collided with many of the learning objectives outlined in the A.P. courses. This collision, some scholars say, is emblematic of the chilling effect the states vague laws can foster in academia.

I think this is the point that many people have been saying, Pattillo said. That the misguided blanket use of this term critical race theory, and in the absence of some definition of what that means or what they think it means, makes any teaching of racism questionable per that vagueness...

Based on the state reviews the Herald/Times provided to him, Finkelman said it appeared the state was hunting for bias.

And if you hunt long enough, you can find bias anywhere, Finkelman said, noting that anyone can find faults, and even small mistakes with any scholarly enterprise.

To do the job right, Finkelman said, the state should ensure the course is reviewed by historians, with expertise in the specific subject area  not political scientists or state bureaucrats. He questioned whether the state prioritized reviewers credentials after seeing the states comments on the topics of slavery, or subjects that took into account the issue of racism and identity.

Based on Finkelmans review of the content, he said, the state reviewers were more interested in correcting content based on their reading of the material over scholarly accuracy.

Read more: Only 3 reviewers said Florida math textbooks violated CRT rules. Yet state rejected dozens

Since Florida rejected the pilot course in January, students in other parts of the country have been taking part in the pilot program. Education officials in only one other state  Arkansas  are disputing whether to make the AP course eligible for credit. The Arkansas Department of Education  led by Floridas former K-12 Chancellor Jacob Oliva  recently removed the class from its course code listing.

In November, the College Board plans to submit the final version of the courses curriculum for approval. But with Floridas laws still in place, the fate of the course remains in limbo  and the outcome could potentially make Florida students in public high schools less likely to have access to the course. If approved, parents and students can choose to enroll in the course.

College Board officials are aware of this possibility, but remain hopeful.

We certainly hope that Florida students will have the opportunity to take this course, said Holly Stepp, a spokesperson with the College Board.

Myers, the Florida Department of Education spokesperson, said the College Board is welcome to resubmit the course for review in November.

But, Myers said, at this point, it is inappropriate to comment on what the future could hold  it is just speculation.
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis s administration officials opposed the College Boards new Advanced Placement African American studies course due to its lack of opposing viewpoints on slavery.

A new report from the Miami Herald sheds more context on Floridas fight against the College Board and Black history specifically.

According to internal state comments, the reviewers believed the A.P. courses depiction of chattel slavery did not promote both sides of history. One lesson on how Europeans benefited from trading enslaved people may lead to a viewpoint of an oppressor vs. oppressed based solely on race or ethnicity, reviewers noted.

The DeSantis administration successfully got the College Board to water down its A.P. African American studies course earlier this year. The new curriculum cut lessons on critical race theory, reparations, Black Lives Matter, and several prominent queer Black writers.

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Florida officials objection to the lack of opposing viewpoints on slavery occurred numerous times and was not previously reported.



There is no other perspective on slavery other than it was brutal, Mary Pattillo, a sociology professor and the department chair of Black Studies at Northwestern University, told the Miami Herald. It was exploitative, it dehumanized Black people, it expropriated their labor and wealth for generations to come.

Earlier this summer, Florida unveiled new social studies school curriculum that teaches students that enslaved people benefited from slavery and that Black people were also perpetrators of violence during race massacres.

The DeSantis administration also approved curriculum for public schools from the right-wing advocacy group PragerU last month. Course content includes a lesson in which Frederick Douglass calls slavery a compromise.


A Crown Point woman is accused of healthcare fraud and aggravated identity theft in federal court, after allegedly using a false identity to establish Sanctuary Health LLC and attempt to bilk Indiana Medicaid and other insurers out of more than $135,000 in reimbursement payments over two years.

Christine L. Reese of Crown Point has a probable cause and detention hearing scheduled for 10:30 a.m. Wednesday before U.S. District Magistrate Judge John E. Martin at the U.S. District Courthouse in Hammond after she was held on the charges Aug. 23 following an FBI raid of her Crown Point home and practice.

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A complaint filed in federal court by FBI Special Agent William Powell lays out what he described as a scheme to use another individuals Indiana Professional Licensing Agency identification number to impersonate a licensed psychologist for the purpose of operating a psychology clinic she was not licensed to operate and allegedly seek reimbursement from Indiana Medicaid and other insurance providers for services Reese could not legally provide.

According to court records, state law requires psychologists be licensed by the Indiana Professional Licensing Agency, which requires applicants to show they have a doctoral degree in psychology.

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Christine Reese has never been licensed as a psychologist by the Indiana Professional Licensing Agency, the document reads.

Reese was granted a federally appointed defender and has been held without bond pending the hearing to allow for pretrial services to prepare a report and home assessment of the defendants residence.

Her attorney, federal public defender Peter Boyles, declined to comment on Tuesday.

In documents, Powell laid out a timeline showing that on or around Feb. 27, 2020 Reese applied for a clinical psychologist job with a comprehensive mental health service company in Munster which was an authorized Medicaid Provider. She allegedly represented herself as a clinical psychologist with a doctoral degree in psychology, according to the documents.

Her application included a copy of a fraudulent diploma which falsely claimed that Reese obtained a doctor of psychology degree from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology in August 2018.

In reality, Reese does have a masters degree in psychology from the University of Phoenix, the documents continue.

Reeses application to Company A also included a copy of a fraudulent license claiming she was licensed as a clinical psychologist with the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation. She also allegedly submitted an IPLA identification number and falsely claimed it was hers.

The identification number that Reese used in her employment application really belonged to another individual, C.R., who was a licensed nurse in Indiana, the affidavit continues.

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The individual, identified as C.R. in court documents, could not immediately be reached for comment.

Reese was successful in her application to company A and was hired around March 20, 2020 as a contract clinical therapist where she worked full-time and would treat up to 51 patients including Medicaid recipients during a standard two-week period, according to court documents.

During Reeses employment at Company A, Indiana Medicaid paid more than $36,000 for services Reese claimed she provided. Reese was terminated from her job around Sept. 24, 2021.

Just five days later, the IPLA issued a telehealth facility license to Sanctuary Counseling LLC, a business owned and or operated by Reese and Roy C. Reese Jr., who at the time was a boyfriend/business partner. They married Oct. 4, 2021, according to the affidavit.

On Aug. 24, Reese Jr., who resides in Chicago, was charged with unlawful possession of a firearm by a serious violent felon, a Level 4 felony, and he bonded out of the Lake County Jail Tuesday by posting $2,500 bail. He has a court hearing in his case set for Wednesday.

The IPLA could not immediately be reached for comment Tuesday.

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A biography on the Sanctuary Counseling website under one of Reeses aliases, Dr. Christine Lang, identifies her as a licensed clinical psychologist and the clinical executive director. The biography reads she obtained her Illinois State Clinical Psychology license in 2019 and a masters degree in clinical mental health counseling from Northwestern University, then received a doctorate in clinical psychology from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. It also lists a variety of professional associations.

The address listed on Sanctuary Counselings website  18125 Roy St., Suite 402, in Lansing, Illinois  is actually the location of the U.S. Post Office.

According to the court records, in November 2021, Reese used fraudulent and stolen information to enroll Sanctuary Counseling as an Indiana Medicaid Provider. On the application the complaint alleges she falsely identified herself in print and handwritten signature as Dr. Christine Reese. On a second form for Sanctuary Counseling she used the name of a licensed psychologist, identified as M.O. in the court documents, and claimed that M.O was a rendering provider for the clinic.

According to the complaint, that individual never worked for the clinic and denied signing the application bearing her name and said she never game anyone permission to put her signature on the document. In another alleged misdeed, Reese submitted an IPLA identification number and falsely represented it was hers on a Medicaid enrollment form. The IPLA number belong to a psychologist who never worked for Sanctuary Counseling.

Then, using the fraudulent information, Reese successfully was able to enroll Sanctuary Counseling as an Indiana Medicaid Provider. During a period beginning in November of 2021 and ending in January 2023, Reese through Sanctuary Counseling submitted about 506 claims for reimbursement to Indiana Medicaid for approximately 18 individual Medicaid recipients.

In total Reece billed Medicaid and attempted to collect approximately $135,350 for mental health services purportedly rendered to Indiana Medicaid recipients, the documents allege.

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All of Reeses electronic claim submissions were incomplete and subsequently denied.
A beach umbrella flying in the wind impaled a tourists leg, putting her in an Alabama hospital, officials say.

It happened around 9 a.m. Monday, Aug. 28, along Perdido Beach Boulevard, the City of Orange Beach Fire Department said in a news release. Orange Beach is along the Gulf of Mexico, about 26 miles southwest of Pensacola, Florida.

Crews were advised that a female beachgoer was impaled through the lower leg by a beach umbrella that became dislodged by a strong gust of wind, officials said.

Upon arrival, crews stabilized the victim and had to cut the umbrella shaft on each side of the leg for transport. The victim was transported by helicopter in stable condition.

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The identity of the victim was not released. Station WALA reports she was a senior standing near the Phoenix II Condominiums when a rental umbrella went flying down the beach.

A similar beach mishap occurred in August 2022, when a 63-year-old woman visiting Horry County, South Carolina, was struck by a flying rental umbrella, according to McClatchy News. Tammy Perreault died at a hospital as the result of chest trauma.

Woman becomes 13th swimmer to die along Florida Panhandle this year, data shows

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Man defies warning not to swim in Gulf of Mexico and gets arrested, Florida cops say
Before the 2016 election, I wrote a book called The Bellwether: Why Ohio Picks the President, which tracked Ohios long-standing history of almost always voting for the presidential winner and consistently voting similarly to the nation.

Several months later, Ohio once again voted for the presidential winner  Donald Trump. But its vote did not reflect the nations, and four years after that, Ohio continued in the same rightward direction. It voted for the loser  Trump  with a vote that was even less reflective of the nation.

Clearly, The Bellwether had moved from Current Events to History.

But in the wake of Ohio voters swatting away a recent Republican effort to make it much harder to amend the state constitution  and build a roadblock in front of an effort to enshrine abortion rights protections into the state constitution this November  theres been a bit of buzz about the reemergence of Ohio as a key presidential battleground.

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Dont bet on it.

Democratic Policies are More Popular Than Democrats Themselves.

For starters, ballot issues are not partisan elections, and keep in mind Democratic issue positions can be more popular than Democratic candidates. That was very likely the case in the Aug. 8 Issue 1 vote in Ohio, as a broad coalition of Democrats, independents, and even some Republican voters gave a big thumbs down to a Republican effort to neuter voters power to amend the states constitution.

In 2018, we saw a similar phenomenon when Missouri voters approved a minimum wage ballot issue by 25 points in the same election that they backed now-Republican Sen. Josh Hawley over then-Democratic incumbent Claire McCaskill by 6 points. Just last year, Kentuckians voted with the pro-abortion rights side, declining by about 5 points to specify that the Kentucky Constitution does not contain abortion rights protections. In the same election, they reelected Republican Sen. Rand Paul by 24 points. Be careful about extrapolating trends from an off-year ballot issue vote in Ohio to next years general election.

The unpopularity of Issue 1 was seen in almost every corner of the state. Some of the counties that stood out were the 15 collar counties that touch the states three major urban counties: Cuyahoga (Cleveland), Franklin (Columbus), and Hamilton (Cincinnati). The Issue 1 vote, which saw No (the Democratic position) beat Yes (the Republican position) by 14 points, was 20 points bluer than the 6-point margin enjoyed by Republican Sen. J.D. Vance in his victory over former Democratic Rep. Tim Ryan last year. In almost all of these collar counties, the No side ran ahead of that 20-point difference. One could argue that this is a leading indicator of a blue trend in these places.

Ohios Suburbs Are Different

But the actual partisan trends in the collar counties have been different and much less encouraging for Democrats.

Broadly speaking, the story of the Trump era in the Industrial North has been one of eroding Democratic presidential performance. Relative to the nation, only Illinois and Minnesota were roughly as Democratic in 2020 as they were in 2012. All of the other states in the region that Barack Obama carried at least once (Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Ohio, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin) have gotten more Republican.

The regional movement toward the GOP at the presidential level is the upside of the Trumpian realignment, as he has pulled more white voters who generally do not have a four-year college degree into the GOP coalition  a vital and large bloc in many of these states.

Amid the larger, pro-Republican trends in the Industrial North, there has been some pro-Democratic movement in the regions collar counties  movement that was vital in Joe Bidens efforts to reclaim some of these states in 2020. For instance, some of the still-red Milwaukee collar counties  Waukesha and Ozaukee, two of the states three so-called WOW counties both saw their GOP presidential margins drop double-digits from 2012 to 2020. In Michigan, the Detroit satellites of Oakland and Washtenaw counties got bluer, and in southeast Pennsylvania, the Democratic margin in Philadelphias northwest neighbor, Montgomery County, nearly doubled. Overall, the trade-offs were still good for Trump in this region, but his erosion from Mitt Romneys performance in some key suburban places contributed to his narrow losses in the old Blue Wall in 2020.

In Ohio, however, its much harder to find examples of Democratic growth in these kinds of suburban/exurban collar counties: 12 of the 15 that touch Cuyahoga, Franklin or Hamilton got redder from 2012 to 2020. The sole exceptions were Delaware, north of Columbus, and Warren and Butler, north of Cincinnati. Delaware has by far the highest four-year college attainment of any county in Ohio  but it is still Republican, voting for Trump by 7 points, down from Romneys 23. Meanwhile, in the vast swaths of small town and rural Ohio, the Democrats have collapsed: The Republican presidential nominee went from winning just six of Ohios 88 counties with 70 percent or more of the vote in 2012 to exactly half of them in 2020.

The basic statewide story that helps explain both the sticky Republicanism of the collar counties as well as the big GOP movement in much of the rest of the state is that prior to the Trump realignment, Democrats stayed afloat in Ohio in large part because non-college whites there were less Republican than they were nationally.

But in 2016, according to a detailed and respected report from the liberal Center for American Progress comparing the 2012 election with 2016, non-college whites in Ohio actually became slightly more Republican than they were nationally, while the states college whites also remained more Republican than they were nationally. The AP/Fox News VoteCast exit poll found this same basic alignment in 2020. This combination  a Republican stampede among non-college whites, paired with a college white group that retains a GOP lean  is electorally deadly for Democrats in Ohio, particularly because the state is whiter than the nation as a whole.

Democrats Silver Lining

If theres a silver lining for Democrats in these otherwise troubling trendlines, Issue 1 did provide a template for what a future Democratic victory in Ohio might look like, with the suburban/exurban collar counties either voting Democratic or at least not giving the GOP the landslide margins to which they have become accustomed.

That could matter a great deal in the 2024 battle for control of the Senate. Democratic incumbent Sherrod Browns reelection bid likely depends on finding some new votes in these places, as it seems reasonable to expect that he will continue to lose ground in rapidly reddening eastern Ohio in a presidential year. One telling sign is that even though No won by 14 points in 2023, and Brown won by 7 in his 2018 reelection, Browns margin was better than Nos in much of the region, including in Mahoning and Trumbull counties, home to the post-industrial cities of Youngstown and Warren, respectively, and poster children for the Trump realignment. This perhaps suggests that the continued erosion for Democrats in these one-time cobalt blue counties will only continue.

If Ohio did in fact vote Democratic for president in 2024, it would likely be as part of much wider improvement for the party across the region, such that Michigan, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin would be voting Democratic by several points apiece and the Democrats would likely be winning the presidency easily. Thats possible, of course, but the odds are against it.

Ohio is, rightly, going to remain a focus in 2023, with a looming vote coming on abortion rights in November. But regardless of what happens in that ballot measure, the Trump realignment ended  at least for now  the states defining role as a presidential bellwether.


In this file photo, Damon Kemp, a former Bethune-Cookman University student, looks around the courtroom in the S. James Foxman Justice Center, Tuesday, May 23, 2023, during his trial for killing two people, including another B-CU student.

A former Bethune-Cookman University student was sentenced Tuesday to three consecutive life prison terms for killing another ex-student and the ex-student's friend in Daytona Beach.

Damon Kemp, 24, of Stone Mountain, Georgia, was found guilty in May of two counts of second-degree murder and armed burglary of an occupied dwelling with assault or battery.

He has been held in the Volusia County Branch Jail since his arrest in 2018.

Circuit Judge Leah Case said during the sentencing that it was clear Kemp was the killer.

Kemp shot and killed Trey Ingraham and Jordan Paden, both 19, on Dec. 7, 2018, in apartment 434 at the Jade Park Apartment Homes, located at 500 Jimmy Ann Drive. Ingraham was shot four times and Paden six. Their bodies were found inside next to the apartment's door as if they had been trying to get away.

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Ingraham was a former B-CU student from Palm Beach County who was planning to return to the university. Kemp had stayed for a time in Ingraham's apartment until he was asked to leave.

Kemp did not testify at his trial but he did make a statement at his sentencing. Kemp said he and the victims' families have mutual friends, so the pain and burden was felt by both sides.

"Im a strong individual; being the fact that Im still standing after a close friend of mine passed away and I was the one accused of the crime, Kemp said.

He said he had never been incarcerated or charged with a crime before. He said there was no direct or physical evidence against him.

I just hope you show leniency when you judge me as a person," Kemp told the judge. "Its my first time you know being convicted of anything. Sad to say I never thought I would be convicted of this. 

He said no one in society could say he was an unfair or uncivilized individual.

I just pray that you take that into consideration  and allow me to have another chance at my life, Kemp said.

Assistant State Attorney Sarah Thomas then asked him if he denied committing the crime.

Kemp did not answer and consulted with his attorney.

Thomas asked Kemp, since he was saying he was accused, was he saying he didnt kill the two men?

Those words never came out of my mouth, Kemp said.

Responding to the judge, Kemp said he was not admitting or denying killing the pair.

Defense attorney Richard Zaleski Jr. said the deaths were a senseless tragedy and asked the court to consider sentencing Kemp to the minimum according to state guidelines of just over 41 years in prison

Thomas asked for three consecutive life sentences. She said the family was also asking for life sentences.

Thomas said Kemp lacked remorse and was not accepting responsibility. She said Kemp tried to cover up the crime, including by jumping into a pond.

Judge Case said it was an unusual trial in that it featured a dual-defense in which Kemp's defense argued he did not commit the murders and if he did he was insane.

Case said there was nothing to show that Kemp was insane at the time and there was no evidence to support his claim of a traumatic brain injury. But Case said Kemp had experimented with drugs and smoked marijuana daily.

The judge said it was clear that Kemp was the killer.

"So we know Mr. Kemp committed cold blooded murder and burglary  Case said. We know he did it."

The sentencing hearing was shown on Zoom and one of the people watching held up a note for the camera that read "Justice Judge For Trey" and another note simply said "Trey and Jordan." Another said "We need you Lord."

This article originally appeared on The Daytona Beach News-Journal: Former B-CU student gets 3 life terms for Daytona Beach double murder
Despite losing her reelection bid, former city Rep. Claudia Rodriguez could face action by the El Paso Ethics Review Commission after a complaint was filed against her this week over her use of her city-issued gas card last year.

Rodriguez spent nearly $5,300 on 1,459 gallons of gasoline, according to an audit by Chief Internal Auditor Edmundo Calderon.

"The latest complaint submitted against me is proof that this is a political hit job," Rodriguez wrote in a statement. "Why? Because I am no longer in office. My position is, I did nothing wrong and will not be participating in this kangaroo court process."

More: Rep. Cassandra Hernandez reprimanded by ethics commission for her gas card usage

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The complaint against Rodriguez was filed Monday morning by Tom Laign, a resident of District 6, which is now represented by city Rep. Art Fierro, who defeated Rodriguez in last year's election.

"Whenever somebody gets elected into public office, they're given a position of public trust," Laign said. "Even when they've left office, as Claudia Rodriguez has done in this case, she still held that public trust while she was still in office."

Laign notes in his complaint a litany of missteps made by Rodriguez, which were originally identified by Chief Internal Auditor Edmundo Calderon in his office's repot earlier this year. The report showed three instances of back-to-back fill-ups and two instances of more than 14 gallons being purchased on the same day.

Further, Calderon's report also showed that Rodriguez had used her city fuel card to purchase gas in Van Horn, Fort Stockton and Carlsbad, New Mexico. Calderon determined that Rodriguez was likely filling up multiple vehicles and described her fuel usage as "excessive."

More: El Paso City Council to hold special meeting over members' 'excessive' fuel card use

"Representative Rodriguez's actions are completely unacceptable for an elected representative of the people," Laign wrote in his complaint, "and she must be called to account."

A similar ethic's complaint was filed against District 3 Rep. Cassandra Hernandez. The Ethics Review Commission issued a letter of reprimand against Hernandez for her 2022 fuel card usage.

Hernandez spent $6,700 in fuel expenses on the taxpayer-funded fuel card. She has since repaid the money.

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This article originally appeared on El Paso Times: Former El Paso city Rep. Claudia Rodriguez hit with ethics complaint
Donald Trump s legal team tried comparing his federal trial date to the case of the Scottsboro Boys, a move that a retired judge called stunningly stupid.

District Judge Tanya Chutkan on Monday set Trumps election interference trial for March 4, 2024. Before she made her final decision, Trumps lawyers tried to request a later trial date by comparing Trumps case to Powell v. Alabama, also known as the Scottsboro Boys case. The Scottsboro Boys were nine Black teenagers accused of raping two white women in Alabama in 1931. The boys were rushed to trial, during which they had terrible legal representation, and convicted just days after the alleged incident. The Supreme Court overturned their convictions the following year, and the case is frequently cited as a glaring example of racial injustice in the U.S. legal system.

The moment in that hearing that struck me, I only have two words to describe it as stunningly stupid. And that was when Trumps attorney compared their desire to delay the case to what happened in the case of Powell v. Alabama, LaDoris Cordell told CNN Monday night about Trumps hearing, referring to the Supreme Court case that overturned the Scottsboro convictions.

What the Trump team did was say that, well, what happened in that trial is what could happen here in this trial, which is absolutely absurd.

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Judge Chutkan, of course, dismissed the comparison and set Trumps trial date for the heart of the Republican primary season.

Trump was indicted for his role in the January 6 insurrection and other attempts to overturn the 2020 presidential election, one of four indictments. His legal team proposed the trial begin in April 2026, well after the presidential election. The hope was likely that Trump would have been reelected by then and could avoid federal charges.

Special counsel Jack Smith, who investigated Trump for this indictment and for his alleged mishandling of classified documents, requested that the trial begin in January. Chutkan said neither date was appropriate and set the trial for Marchthe day before Super Tuesday.

Cordell said she suspected Chutkan, who is Black, was offended by the comparison to the Scottsboro Boys. Chutkan has already begun receiving death threats from Trump supporters.
The former mayor of a small Minnesota town died after he and his wife were awakened to a brutal attack by their nephew, according to police and news reports.

Mark Novak, 74, who is reportedly the former mayor of Janesville, died as a result of the Thursday, Aug. 24, attack in Bloomington, Minnesota, court documents say and news outlets report.. His 72-year-old wife, Pam, also suffered critical injuries in the attack.

Anyone who knows Mark and Pam knows them as friends. They loved each other dearly and it spilled over to everyone they met, a GoFundMe says. Their smiles, warmth, and kindness reached far and wide and never discriminated.

A relative of the couple, 44-year-old Adam Roring was found trying to escape the home after the attack, police said in a probable cause statement. He had a blood-like substance on his clothing and was carrying a metal bar and nunchucks that appeared to have blood on them, police said.

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The Pioneer Press and Minneapolis Star Tribune said Roring is the nephew of the Novaks, but a motive for the attack is unclear.

Pam Novak was discovered lying on the floor inside the house when officers arrived, according to the probable cause statement. Her husband was found upstairs with severe laceration to his throat and other injuries on his head, face, and hands, police said.

He was taken to a hospital, where he was pronounced dead, according to police.

Officers said Pam Novak had extensive injuries to her head and face, including facial and nasal fractures and multiple deep cuts. She told authorities they woke up to a man beating them, police said.

They were able to get out of bed, but Mark Novak continued to be attacked, the probable cause statement says. Pam Novak called 911 after she was pushed down the stairs, according to the court documents.

Roring attempted to flee on foot but was captured by officers, police said.

He said he was in the home to return a key but discovered an intruder with nunchucks and a chain, according to police. He said he fought with the alleged intruder and took their weapons, saying the intruder then fled the home, police said.

Roring was charged with second-degree murder and second-degree attempted murder, court records show.

Blood-like substances were found throughout the home, as well as a chefs knife that appeared to have blood on it in the kitchen sink, the probable cause statement says.

The Waseca County News reported Mark Novak served as mayor of Janesville in 2011 and 2012, but opted not to run for a second term. Janesville, in southern Minnesota, has a population of about 2,500.

Mark will be missed by many friends in our community, Janesville City Administrator Clinton Rogers said in a statement to the Pioneer Press. We hope for a speedy recovery for Pam.

Pam Novak is expected to survive, the GoFundMe says.

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Former Obama aide Eric Schultz consulted with HBO's Succession on crafting the chaotic outcome to their fictional presidential election. Macall Polay/HBO; Carolyn Kaster/AP

Former Obama aide Eric Schultz was one of the political consultants for HBO's Succession.

Schultz wrote about how he helped craft the show's fictional presidential election.

The election featured a chaotic event that overshadowed the outcome, something Schultz hopes doesn't really happen.

Editor's note: This post contains spoilers for the final season of HBO's "Succession."

A former Obama White House aide who worked with writers on crafting the chaotic end to the show's fictional presidential election expressed hope that the brief chapter in the Roys' saga doesn't become real life.

"[S]hows that crack the D.C. code ground their broader stories in authenticity by fixating on the nitty-gritty," former Deputy White House press secretary Eric Shultz wrote in The Hollywood Reporter. "With Succession, I can only hope we didn't predict the future and that, ultimately, life does not imitate art."

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Schultz consulted on the script for "America Decides," the third-to-last episode in the award-winning HBO drama's fourth and final season. In the episode, Jeryd Mencken, a fictional Republican congressman, is projected as the winner of the presidential election after Kendall and Roman Roy press ATN, the news channel at the center of their fictional empire, to predict his victory. The two Roys' pressure comes as the actual outcome of the election remains unclear following a fire that destroyed thousands of ballots in Democratic-heavy Milwaukee.

Jesse Armstrong, the show's creator, said he was inspired by the real life nail-bitter outcomes in 1960, 2000, and 2016.

"These unbelievably close election moments kind of keep on coming in the US, so it felt legitimate to have another one," Armstrong told HBO during a behind-the-scenes interview.

Back in the real world, Schultz said that he argued for a less direct way to swing than an election than an actual fire that destroys ballots.

"I argued that true sabotage would be more surreptitious; those trying to steal elections are doing so more systematically, inside courtrooms or by manipulating ballot access," Schultz wrote. "But ballot access rules don't exactly jump off the screen, so the arson won out."

Darwin Perry, played by Adam Godley, and Roman Roy, played by Kieran Culkin, face off during a scene in season 4's "America Decides." Macall Polay/HBO

The show doesn't entirely say whether the fire is arson or not. Roman Roy, played by Kieran Culkin, teases his sister Shiv by saying "False Flag" repeatedly when she raises the possibility of a pro-Mencken plot. Mencken's potential status as the leader of the free world is also unresolved.

As we all learned far too well, news organizations don't determine elections. Officials certify the results before the Electoral College votes and their votes are then counted during a joint session of Congress on January 6. Still, Politico's Zach Montellaro talked to election officials and legal experts who conceded that a real-life moment like what was depicted in Succession would turn into a court battle for the ages.

Schultz pointed out that as Succession shot the episode last December, Congress finally moved forward on changing the 1887 law known as The Electoral Count Act. The biggest headlines were devoted to how the law removed any ambiguity that President Donald Trump and his allies had falsely claimed gave them legal cover to argue that Vice President Mike Pence could unilaterally dismiss a state's electoral college vote, potentially altering the outcome of the election.

There were many other changes though. The House-verison of the bill went so far as to a mention a "historically significant destructive fire."

"So much for my political expertise," Schultz wrote of how he dismissed concerns about arson in actual political circles.

The actual law does not mention fires specifically, rather it uses the more lawyerly description of " force majeure events that are extraordinary and catastrophic."

Perhaps, life isn't that far from art after all.

Read the original article on Business Insider
A federal judge in Washington on Monday appeared unlikely to let ex-White House aide Peter Navarro tell a jury that he was following orders from former president Donald Trump when he refused to honour a subpoena from the House January 6 select committee.

Mr Navarro, who served as Mr Trumps top trade adviser, is facing two counts of criminal contempt of Congress stemming from his decision not to respond to the House panels subpoena.

The former White House aide, who has openly bragged of helping to formulate plans that were meant to keep Mr Trump in office despite his 2020 election loss to Joe Biden, has said he refused to comply with the compulsory process because he was honouring a claim of executive privilege by Mr Trump.

But at an evidentiary hearing on Monday, Judge Amit Mehta appeared sceptical about the basis for letting Mr Navarro present such a defence to a jury when he goes on trial next month.

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The former White House official testified he was told not to comply by the former president during a 20 February 2022 phone call between the two men, 11 days after the House panel issued the subpoena.

It was clear during that call that privilege was invoked  very clear, he said. There was no question that the privilege had been invoked from the get-go  none.

The judge told the ex-Trump aides lawyer, Stanley Woodward, that their argument was hard to support absent direct evidence that Mr Navarro was actually told not to comply with the subpoena.

I still dont know what the president said  I dont have any words from the former president, said the judge, who added that testimony from Mr Navarro about how Mr Trump once expressed regret for not letting him testify was pretty weak sauce.

The record is barren, there is nothing here, even after your clients testimony, the judge said.

In response, Mr Woodward told Judge Mehta that he did not think anyone would disagree that we wish there was more here from President Trump.

But I dont believe that diminishes the presumption of privilege, he added.

Another former aide to Mr Trump, podcast host Steve Bannon, is currently appealing a conviction for defying a January 6 committee subpoena after he was convicted by a jury last year.

Mr Navarros trial is set to start next month.
A Fort Liberty soldier was arrested on a murder charge Monday in a fatal shootout at a Fayetteville hookah lounge in April, police said Tuesday.

Sgt. Rolondo Martice Boone, 28, was arrested at his home in Hope Mills at 7:42 a.m. on a charge of first-degree murder in the April 2 killing of Anthony Bradshaw, 30. Bradshaw was among several people shot, including Boone, at the EV Lounge, 5044 Yadkin Road, a news release from the Fayetteville Police Department said.

According to a probable cause affidavit supporting Boone's arrest, on the night of the killing, Boone and Bradshaw were members of opposing groups that got into a dispute inside the club about 11 p.m. The record states that Boone's friend was thrown out of the lounge by security, then ran back inside with a gun and pointed it at Bradshaw.

A man was killed and four other people were injured during a shooting at the EV Lounge on Yadkin Road on Sunday, April 2, 2023, the Fayetteville Police Department reported.

More: Five shot  one fatally  Sunday night at hookah lounge on Yadkin Road in Fayetteville

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A scuffle erupted and during the fight, Boone's friend shot a member of the lounge staff, before he was jumped by several men, the report said. The affidavit states that Boone then walked to his vehicle, and as the fighting groups were exiting, Boone allegedly returned to the doorway and shot Bradshaw. Surveillance cameras reportedly captured Boone firing the weapon and then running away to his vehicle in the parking lot. It was during that time, that Boone was shot by someone else, the record states. A portion of the aftermath of the shooting inside the lounge was captured on cellphone video and shared on social media.

In all, five people were shot, police said. Bradshaw was pronounced dead at the scene, the affidavit said.

According to the affidavit, shell casings found in the parking lot were linked to a firearm bought in Virginia by a person close to Boone.

According to Maj. Russell M. Gordon, spokesman for the 1st Special Forces Command (Airborne), Boone is a unit supply specialist assigned to the 3rd Group, First Special Forces Command. He is originally from Harlem Heights in Houston, Texas and joined the Army in September 2019, arriving at then-Fort Bragg in March 2019, Gordon said.

Boone is being held at the Cumberland County jail without bail, according to the jail record.

Public safety reporter Joseph Pierre can be reached at jpierre@gannett.com.

This article originally appeared on The Fayetteville Observer: Fort Liberty soldier jailed in deadly shootout at Fayetteville hookah lounge
Jocelyn Galindo has heard the stories of women of color who felt disregarded in hospitals and did not have the support they needed during pregnancy.

In fact, as an Hispanic woman, she has experienced those things herself.

Galindo is neurodivergent, and when nurses dont know how to speak with someone on that spectrum it can be difficult. Galindo was concerned during one of her pregnancies about a suggestion that she have a cesarean section when she didnt feel it was necessary. She said she didnt understand every stage of the birthing process and didnt feel assured by nurses, who told her the pain she would feel during labor would be worse than she could handle.

Galindo is glad that late in her second pregnancy she was able to connect with a doula to help with those issues and more. A doula is a non-medical professional who provides support with information preparedness, guidance, companionship and coaching during and after a pregnancy.

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Among other things, the doula worked with Galindo and her husband on exercises to help during contractions, coached Galindo on how to push during labor, and offered her encouragement that she could get through her labor even when she thought she couldnt. After her baby was born, the doula helped her with things such as breastfeeding and the technique for wrapping her baby in a blanket. The doula also made sure Galindo got timely checkups from her medical providers.

Galindo said her doula provided the support system she needed.

Whenever the family is supported, theyre in better health, she said.

The United Way of Tarrant County sees doulas as an important resource to combat the countys high infant and maternal mortality rates. Those rates are even higher for Black and Hispanic populations. The United Way was allocated $1.96 million from Tarrant County through American Rescue Plan Act funds to form a Maternal Health Initiative to train hospital staff and community-based doulas to ensure at-risk women of color have healthier pregnancies.

According to the United Way of Tarrant County, the countys public health area has the second-highest maternal mortality rate among Black women in Texas. The program will target Fort Worths 76104 ZIP code, which has a population that is about 38% Black and 43% Hispanic and was identified in a 2019 study by UT Southwestern Medical Center as having the lowest life expectancy in Texas.

I think the doula program will be very beneficial to the community because moms will be supported, families will be supported and whenever moms get support, theyre able to be better parents, Galindo said.

Holistic approach to maternal, infant health

Regina Williams, chief impact officer of the United Way of Tarrant County, explained that the decision to start the doula program was an effort to look holistically at the problem. The program will improve maternal and infant health and will bridge the gap between people and available medical resources, she said.

The United Way had workshops to listen to people in the 76104 community, connect with families and build awareness as it developed the program. As part of that process, the United Way found that doula services were often not being used by low-income people of color.

It wasnt so much that Fort Worth did not have the access to the doulas or not as much interest in the doulas, it was whether or not the awareness was there to access doula services, Williams said. Seventy-seven percent of the women really shared that if finances werent a barrier, they would really be supported by having access to a doula once they learn what a doula could provide for them and their families.

The program will be led by Yenny James, who is director of the Community Based Doula Project at Trust Her, an organization that provides support for clinic operations and reproductive justice. James is also the founder of Paradigm Doulas, which is a doula training organization. The United Way program will start the training program for doulas on Oct. 1; applications are available on the Paradigm Doulas website. The program will help mothers from any socioeconomic status once it begins.

James said giving birth is more than a physical event, its an emotional and spiritual journey. Doulas will work with families to address physiological and emotional wounds passed down through generations that impact the way women give birth. This trauma can lead to the increased risk of cesarean sections and postpartum depression.

If were not taking care of that parent, it is inter-generational, its going to continue to affect the generations that come after us, James said. So thats really one of the main focuses, is that if one person isnt well, that affects the entire generation. We shouldnt be dying at this rate. I mean, one maternal death is too high, one infant death is too high, especially with the technology that we have.

Doula provided emotional support

Galindo worked with a Doula during her first pregnancy, but she and her husband had financial challenges during her second pregnancy, and it was difficult to find a doula until late in her pregnancy.

Jocelyn Galindo with her 6-week-old son, Cicero Martinez, and daughter Eleanor Martinez, 2. Galindo believes a plan to train more doulas in Tarrant County and target at-risk populations will strengthen the community.

Galindo was stressed about having another child amid other challenges she was facing. Her doula, seeing the issue, gave her boxes of clothes for their child, which eased her worries. Galindo wants more mothers to experience the benefits of working with a doula.

I hope with this doula program that theyre able to find support just like I did, she said.

James, who will lead the doula program, emphasized that she will train doulas to support not just the mothers but their families. There will be home visits, inspections for hazards in the home and to make sure families have essentials such as running water and electricity. Families will also be connected with useful resources.

James encourages anyone who identifies with the challenges faced by those in the 76104 ZIP code to apply for free training through the doula program. The services of the doula program will be free of charge for pregnant women who cannot afford a doula.

Tarrant County Public Health released a data brief in August 2022 showing that in 2019 Tarrant County had the fourth highest infant mortality rate among all Texas counties, with a rate of 5.55 deaths per 10,000 live births.

The 2018 Texas Maternal Mortality and Morbidity Biennial Report showed the rate of maternal deaths in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, measured in terms of women dying while pregnant or within 42 days after giving birth, was the third highest of the 11 regions in Texas measured in the report. The maternal mortality rate in DFW was 25.4 deaths per 100,000 live births between 2012-15, according to the report.

Some of the leading causes of maternal deaths are obstetric hemorrhage or excessive bleeding during labor, mental health problems, and blood clots, according to the 2022 Texas Maternal Mortality and Morbidity Biennial Report, which looked into 2019 pregnancy-associated death cases. Discrimination contributed to 12 percent of pregnancy-related deaths, according to the report. The report also found that 90% of pregnancy-related deaths could have been prevented.

A study by the Natural Library of Medicine this year, says advocacy and support provided by doulas help the entire birthing process. That support can include such things as companionship and partner engagement, help with breathing techniques and changing positions of the mother during labor and better physician-patient communication. The study also says doula intervention could result in decreased expenses due to fewer procedures being performed and improved mental health benefits, with reduced rates of anxiety and depression.

Lack of access to doulas

Many women, especially low-income women of color, do not have the opportunity to work with a doula.

Alexis Bright, a Black woman, remembers being in her 20s in New Orleans and going through extremely painful births with her first two children.

She moved to Fort Worth two years ago and became pregnant again. Unfortunately, she lost her job in March and had to sign up for Medicaid, which doesnt cover doulas.

Bright attended a workshop set up by the United Way this summer about the Maternal Health Initiative and was excited to learn about the initiative and how doulas can be advocates and provide support for women with limited resources and knowledge. She plans to sign up for the program to be a doula herself.

Some communities, we dont have knowledge, we dont have access, she said. We dont have any other options than to listen to the medical professionals. And, as we can see, its not working statistically.

James acknowledged that doulas are often misunderstood and have tense relationships at times with medical professionals. She said shes been told by medical professionals that doulas just give back rubs and get in the way during their time with a patient.

Galindo and Bright each said they suggested doulas to their doctors, who were hesitant about them.

James says the program will work to ease the tension by providing education to medical providers on what doulas do. Her hope is to gain respect for doulas so they can become an integral part of the team to improve maternal health.

Freya Morani, founder and CEO of RootMama, is a certified doula who is thankful for the Maternal Health Initiative. She wants to build a strong, and larger, community around mothers and pregnant women.

Morani thinks its important that doulas help mothers understand there is help outside of their immediate community. There are other resources and support systems, and they can find community with other pregnant women, mothers, doulas, and health professionals, she said.

Without more collaboration, programs such as the Maternal Health Initiative will not produce the expected results, she said.

I love my profession, but I never want to oversell what we can do or over-promise what we can do, because we ourselves are working within the limitations of a flawed system, Morani said. So were doing our best.
Troopers with Indiana State Police arrested two people after an early-morning crash on Tuesday, Aug. 29, 2023, on Interstate 80/94 in Lake County. - Original Credit: Indiana State Police (Handout/HANDOUT)

A Michigan City man and a Merrillville woman are in custody after an early morning crash Tuesday on Interstate 80/94, according to a release from Indiana State Police.

Around 3:45 a.m., troopers from the Lowell Post were dispatched to the eastbound lane of the interstate near the 7.7 mile marker near the Burr Street exit in Gary for a crash involving a semi and a car, according to a release from Sgt. Glen Fifield, the posts public information officer.

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A preliminary investigation by Trooper Keven Council showed that a 2015 Ford Taurus sideswiped a 2001 Freightliner, causing the semi to crash into the median wall, police said. The semi continued to travel over the wall and overturned, coming to a rest on its driver side. The semi also struck some construction equipment that was being operated by two construction workers.

The Taurus came to rest in the right ditch. Witnesses told police they saw a male flee from the crashed car. When police arrived, they located the abandoned Taurus. While police were still investigating the crash, a man and woman arrived at the scene and the woman gave information to the troopers that she had been driving the Taurus at the time of the crash.

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Troopers with Indiana State Police arrested two people after an early-morning crash on Tuesday, Aug. 29, 2023, on Interstate 80/94 in Lake County. - Original Credit: Indiana State Police (Handout/HANDOUT)

Troopers were suspicious of her statements and determined that the man with her had been the driver of the Taurus at the time of the crash.

Police began an impaired driving investigation and Charles Luis Garcia Berrios, 30, of Michigan City, was arrested on two misdemeanor counts of operating while intoxicated, and misdemeanor counts of leaving the scene of a crash, driving while suspended with a prior conviction and false informing.

Tamia A. Baylor, 35, of Merrillville, was charged with a misdemeanor count of false informing.

Police transported Berrios and Baylor to Lake County Jail. No one was injured as a result of the crash.
Fox News pundit and Washington Post columnist Marc Thiessen railed against Republican presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy s foreign policy proposals, calling them criminally stupid, and utterly disqualifying.

Thiessen took to social media Monday in response to an article Ramaswamy wrote in The American Conservative centered on how he would approach the Russia-Ukraine war and U.S. relations with China.

This by @VivekGRamaswamy is criminally stupid, Thiessen wrote in a post on X, formerly known as Twitter, before quoting one of the lines from Ramaswamys piece.

Like a freshman foreign policy paper. Utterly disqualifying, Thiessen continued.

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Thiessen chose a quote from Ramaswamys piece centered around the White House hopefuls vow to accept Russian control of the occupied territories and to block Ukraines NATO candidacy in exchange for Russia exiting its military alliance with China. Ramaswamy also said he would end sanctions to bring Russia back into the global market and, as a result, elevate Russia as a strategic check on Chinas designs in East Asia.

In his post, Ramaswamy signaled he would significantly reduce the United Statess international involvement, writing, We will be Uncle Sucker no more. Ramaswamy claimed the U.S. squandered its opportunity after the end of the Cold War to remain he worlds lone superpower, instead allowing Russia and China to work together to threaten the nations top spot.

Ramaswamy said he would also plan to visit Moscow as president in 2025 to negotiate terms to end the war between Russia and Ukraine. Ramaswamys stance on the Russia-Ukraine war drew criticism from his GOP rivals during last weeks GOP primary debate, when he was the only candidate to raise his hand when moderators asked who would not keep supporting Ukraine. Republican presidential hopeful Nikki Haley responded to Ramaswamys stance, arguing he has no foreign policy and it shows.

In a post later Monday, Thiessen responded to a post from Ramaswamy on his stance on Taiwan, writing, Amateur hour. All China hears is: We can invade in 2028. This is how world wars get started.

Touching upon Taiwan in his piece with The American Conservative, Ramaswamy said he would push for strategic clarity on defending American interests in Taiwan, in contrast to the current U.S. policy of strategic ambiguity.

China considers Taiwan, a self-governing democracy, to be a part of its sovereign territory and seeks reunification with the island.

The Hill reached out to Ramaswamys campaign for comment.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Foxconn is selling off two of its large facilities in Wisconsin after years of neglected promises to bring thousands of jobs to Eau Claire and Green Bay. The Taiwanese manufacturing company has pivoted from one potential production idea to the next since it broke ground in 2017 and gave then-President Donald Trump an opportunity to take photos and claim hes bringing jobs back to the United States.



The company said it was building innovation centers around Wisconsin including an LCD factory that never came to fruition. In 2019 and 2020, The Verge reported that little progress had been made on the project and two buildings were sitting empty. Now those two buildings are being sold off along with any hope of a Foxconn employment boom.

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Meanwhile, in Eau Clarie, the 15,000-square-foot property, known as Haymarket Landing, has reportedly been vacant for several years, Community Development Director Aaron White told WPR, but with the sale of the building, it could open the town up to actual profitable possibilities.

The innovation center concept really would have been a really nice addition to downtown, bringing some job and technical opportunities that would have fit very well for the area, he said. With that not moving forward, making sure that space is in the hands of a developer or an owner who will actively engage in filling it, managing it, maintaining it, and keeping it full is definitely the best case for the city, he told the outlet.

Foxconn paid nearly $12 million to purchase both properties, the Green Bay Press-Gazette reported in 2018, and it promised to bring 13,000 high-tech jobs to its locations in Wisconsin, at first saying it would be an LCD factory before backtracking on the idea. Chief Executive Terry Gou , told Reuters in 2019 that it may not make sense to create an LCD factory in the U.S., saying it might be more suited to be built in Asia. In terms of TV, we have no place in the U.S., he said at the time. We cant compete. Instead, Woo told the outlet that Foxconn wanted to build a technology hub that would be the base for research facilities and packaging and assembly operations.

After productive discussions between the White House and the company, and after a personal conversation between President Donald Trump and Chairman Terry Gou, Foxconn is moving forward with our planned construction of a Gen 6 fab facility, which will be at the heart of the Wisconn Valley Science and Technology Park, the company said in a statement to The Washington Post in 2019.

Trump used Foxconn as a building block (or smoke screen) during the first year of his presidency, telling manufacturing executives at a White House meeting at the time: Im delivering on everything we promised. The day after Foxconn said it would invest in building its facilities and bring jobs to the U.S., Trump said the company is going to spend a tremendous amount of money on building a massive plant, adding, and probably more than one.

Foxconn has a history of letting down communities, promising to invest $30 million in a high-tech factory in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania in 2013 and saying it would bring 300 jobs to the area, but the promise eventually faded into the ether. Not unlike the Wisconsin factories, a local official recalled to The Washington Post, that after the announcement of the Pennsylvania factory, It just seemed to fade to black.

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France will ban students from wearing abayas, the long, robe-like garments worn by Muslim women, in state schools this academic year as the country faces accusations of Islamophobia from a growing Muslim minority. File Photo by Ismael Mohamad/UPI

Aug. 28 (UPI) -- France will ban students from wearing abayas, the long, robe-like garments worn by Muslim women, in state schools this academic year as the country faces accusations of Islamophobia from a growing Muslim minority.

The announcement follows months of debate in France, where the wearing of large crosses, Jewish kippas and Islamic headscarves or hijab is already banned.

"Schools of the Republic are built on very strong values and principles, especially laicite," which means the separation of state and religion, according to French Education Minister Gabriel Attal .

"For me, laicite, when put in the framework of a school, is very clear: You enter a classroom and you must not be able to identify the religious identity of students just by looking at them," Attal told French TV network TF-1 on Sunday.

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"During my meetings with the school heads this summer, I sensed their need for a clear rule on the national level on the issue of abayas, so the rule is now here," Attal added.

A number of French lawmakers attacked the move as a "new Islamaphobic campaign."

"Sadness to see the return to school politically polarized by a new absurd entirely artificial religious war about a woman's dress. When will there be civil peace and true secularism that unites instead of exasperating?" Jean-Luc Melenchon, a liberal activist, asked Monday in a post on X, formerly known as Twitter.

France banned headscarves in schools in 2004 and full face veils were banned in public in 2010.

"This type of policy stands in opposition to the liberal core of the 1905 Law on Separation of Church and State -- a law we've been distorting and weaponizing since the '90s," Rim-Sarah Alouane, a French legal scholar, wrote in a post on X.

"Such policies fuel the nation's fractures," Alouane added.

France has banned religious signs and dress in its schools since the 19th century, when the first rules were enacted to keep the Catholic Church from influencing public education. France has continued to update the law to reflect its changing population.

Attal said he would provide clear national rules before schools open on Sept. 4.
The 2024 Republican field has officially shrunk by one.

Miami Mayor Francis Suarez officially suspended his campaign on Tuesday after failing to make last weeks debate in Milwaukee, the first matchup of the GOP candidates onstage. His suspension came a day after an NBC News report detailed two sharp dropoffs in campaign spending following the announcement of Mr Suarezs exclusion from the debate and the subsequent event itself.

While I have decided to suspend my campaign for President, my commitment to making this a better nation for every American remains, Mr Suarez said in a lengthy statement released on Twitter.

Running for President of the United States has been one of the greatest honors of my life. This country has given so much to my family and me. The prospect of giving back at the highest levels of public service is a motivator if not a calling. Throughout this process, I have met so many freedom-loving Americans who care deeply about our nation, her people, and its future. It was a privilege to come so close to appearing on stage with the other candidates at last weeks first debate, his statement continued.

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Mr Suarez, the second-youngest prominent Republican in the race (and the youngest to actually serve in office), had branded himself as the face of a new generation of conservative state leaders in America. But he failed to gain traction in early primary states as well as in national polling, where he languished below the first primary debate threshold of one percent for months.

More follows...
FRESNO, Calif. (KSEE/KGPE)  Police released the name of one of the two coyotes, suspects in the migrant family kidnapping in Fresno on Monday.

Friday, police took 31-year-old Cristian Ortiz Coronado into custody on suspicion of human trafficking and kidnapping after he transported a migrant family from Mexico to Fresno.

Cristian Ortiz Coronado. Photo Courtesy: The Fresno Police Department.

On Friday, a police officer with the Fresno Police Department said he was flagged down by a community member near the intersection at Maple Avenue and Central Avenue. The victim was saying members of his family were just kidnapped and being held hostage.

The victim says he had agreed to pay the suspect money to transport his wife and two young children from the border of Mexico to Fresno, but upon arrival, the suspect demanded more money for the delivery of the family.

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Officers say they began to argue. In the meantime, one of the victims family members grabbed the victims four-year-old daughter to save her, but the suspect drove off with the victims other son, an eight-year-old child, and his wife, who was around her 20s.

Police say they were able to track down the suspect in a parking lot in Madera, and they led the suspects back to Fresno where they took them into custody. There is no information as of now regarding the identity of the second suspect.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to YourCentralValley.com.
When MaliVai Washington heard about Saturdays racist attack  a mass shooting in Jacksonville, Florida  his first thought was: Is it someone I know?

Washington's MaliVai Washington Youth Foundation, which helps hundreds of Black students attend after-school homework and tennis programs, is less than 2 miles from the Dollar General where three Black people were shot and killed by a white former store employee.

"The shooting is tragic and especially hit close to home," said Washington, who in 1996 was the first African-American male tennis player to reach the Wimbledon final since Arthur Ashe in 1975.

Washington said he was stunned that there are still mass murders that are purely racially motivated. ... Havent we evolved to a point where were past that?

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It's still frightening and shocking that in this day and age, we still have this in the United States, in my hometown, in my home state.

The Jacksonville shooting comes as Black communities are still reeling from other racial attacks, including last years killing of 10 Black grocery shoppers in Buffalo, New York, and the murder of nine churchgoers in Charleston, South Carolina, in 2015. Some say they worry media attention and intense rhetoric may have emboldened more extremists. And they worry the racially motivated attacks, which hark back to more violent times in the nations history, will continue.

Renee Watson, director of the Bexar County small business and entrepreneurship program in San Antonio, said statewide efforts to resist gun control measures and restrict discussion of racism and the effects of slavery in the classroom have heightened fears among communities of color.

As more of these incidents come to pass, people really have to be prepared in their communities, Watson said. Its not just in one place. Its not just in the supermarket. Its everywhere.

An undated photo provided by Sabrina Rozier shows Rozier (left) and Jerrald Gallion (right). Gallion was killed, on Saturday when three Black people were gunned down Saturday by a white man at a Dollar General store in Jacksonville, Florida.

Black Floridians worry about racial tensions

Khalil Gibran Muhammad, a historian at the Kennedy School at Harvard University in Massachusetts, said there is a long history of racial strife in Florida, and recent attacks on Black history education in public schools have further fueled concerns about equity and inclusion in Florida.

For many Black Floridians right now, things feel very much like they've not only gone backward, but that it's a dangerous place, Muhammad said.

The Rev. Rhonda Thomas, executive director of Faith in Florida, a coalition of churches advocating for social justice, said many people dont feel safe.

"It doesn't end at all, especially here in Florida," she said. "Ive got a lot of feelings and emotions going on when I see this repeated cycle of hate that I feel has been legislated."

Desmond Meade, president and executive director of the Orlando-based Florida Rights Restoration Coalition, said he feels somewhat scared as a Black man in Florida.

It makes you think about the state were in. I mean, just to think I could be sitting in a car and someone can shoot me just based on my race, theres definitely a heightened level of concern, he said.

There has to be a courageous stand taken against this.

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis was booed at a vigil for Black men killed in a shooting at a Dollar General. The sheriff said it was racially motivated.

Thomas said shes worried the younger generation will not tolerate some of the racial violence their elders did. She pointed to Montgomery, Alabama, where mostly young Black people earlier this month came to the defense of a Black riverboat co-captain who was being beaten by several white men.

What took place in Alabama was a spirit of liberation, she said.

Thomas launched a project last month with about 200 Black churches in Florida that will teach African American history outside the classroom, including in Sunday school. Its on the church to teach it raw and real, she said.

'Walking with our ancestors' Thousands fighting for civil rights attend March on Washington

Hate crimes target Black people across US

Outside Florida, many Black people have expressed concern about where the United States is headed.

Rep. Bennie Thompson, who headed the hearings on the Jan. 6 attack on the U.S. Capitol and served as former chairman of the House Homeland Security Committee, said racial attacks, including the shooting in Jacksonville, are part of a growing trend of violence against Black communities.

"The rise is coming based on evidence from the right, in terms of right-wing extremists targeting not just houses of worship and institutions frequented by African Americans, now they moved it into grocery stores, supermarkets," said Thompson, a Democrat from Mississippi who held a hearing last year on threats against historically Black colleges and universities. It just continues to escalate in violence.

Theres data to back up Thompsons sentiments. The Jacksonville shooting comes about a month after a new study by Tulane University researchers in New Orleans found mass shootings disproportionately target Black people and occur more often in U.S. cities with high Black populations, suggesting structural racism may be at play.

Hate speech has been much more intense since Barack Obama was elected the first Black president more than 10 years ago, Muhammad said.

There's no question that the notion that there are groups in this society that want to protect the interests of the white Christian community has been the major driver for supremacist groups and organizations to gain adherents and more local power that has contributed to a number of issues, including the Jan. 6 insurrection, he said.

Armisha Payne, left, and her mother Angela Michelle Carr, 52, one of three people killed in Jacksonville, Florida, on Aug. 26, 2023, in what law enforcement officials are calling a racist attack.

Kamm Howard, executive director of Reparations United, a Chicago-based organization, said there is no easy solution to racial hatred in the United States.

Some Americans want us to continue living in a state of fear. Theres a new wave of extremists who are bringing terror right into Black communities, he said. This has been building and building, and theres no short answer or quick fix to this.

Arthur Reed, founder of Stop the Killing, an organization based in Houston that works to extract people from gang life and into education, said that while hate crimes should prompt caution, they shouldnt be allowed to frighten Black people.

We cannot let it strike fear into us, because that is what its designed to do, Reed said. I dont think we can change our daily activities because of these painful acts. We have to remain as we have and make sure we stand on the principles of America that everyone has a right to be here  including the haters.

He noted some shootings have been committed by people gripped by white supremacist ideologies of the far right.

There are people in America that have a mindset that is so sick that they believe civil war is coming, Reed said. Blacks could care less about that. People are paying attention to their daily lives, holding down employment and keeping a roof over their head. Theyre too busy trying to survive than to plot a civil war.

He said the rhetoric of former President Donald Trump and the lingering tensions from the Jan. 6 insurrection have fed worries and confusion among the Black community.

Why is there this constant hate for us even after all weve been through? Reed said. We are a people that have moved on. We never tried to overthrow the government. The constant attacks are mind-boggling.

'We have to remain vigilant' HBCU leaders ask Congress for help against bomb threats

Black business owners fear becoming targets

Some Black business owners are also worried about their safety.

At an outreach event by Watsons business office Monday morning in Texas, business owners expressed concerns during a presentation by a Bexar County Sheriffs Department representative about programs that could help increase security. Such worries were higher among retail business owners, Watson said, given their greater accessibility to the public.

Some Black business owners, she said, have said they feel compelled to play down their ownership to avoid attention from those who might want to do them harm.

People embrace near a memorial for the shooting victims outside of Tops grocery store on May 20, 2022 in Buffalo, New York.

They dont want to be a target, she said.

Thompson noted that the gun used by the killer in Jacksonville was legal there. In Florida, the only thing that guy did wrong was he started killing people, he said.

Thompson said its not enough for politicians to show up at the scene of a shooting and express their sympathies when they then turn around and support policies that allow people to go out and buy a gun.

Thats not the answer, he said, adding that, among other things, there should be more legislation reducing access to assault weapons. For a civilized society, we have to absolutely start the movement of what we need to do to stop this assault on American citizens.

Tell em about the dream, Martin! Memories from the crowd at MLKs March on Washington

Online hate is sparking violence across US

Official statistics back up concerns that life has become more dangerous for Black Americans in recent years.

A report this year by national civil rights group Leadership Conference Education Fund found the number of hate crimes has jumped 80% since 2015, with FBI data clearly illustrating that such crimes spike during presidential elections.

From white supremacist and anti-government movements coalescing and moving more into the political mainstream, to conspiracy theories circulating online and public officials amplifying hate, there are few  if any  signs that tensions will lessen, the report reads.

According to the FBI, there were nearly 13,000 victims of hate crimes in 2021, an 11.6% increase over the previous year. Black people were the most targeted of all groups, accounting for nearly 4,000 of those victims, the agency said in a revised report, with the number of anti-Black incidents rising 14% to 3,277.

As such, Blacks account for about 30% of all victims, despite comprising just under 14% of the U.S. population.

The statistics reflect just a fraction of actual incidents because many crimes are not reported, and the agencys initial report, released in December, was criticized for a lack of data collected as the FBI shifted to a new crime-reporting program with slow or non-participation by law enforcement agencies nationwide. The revised report reflects data from nearly 15,000 law enforcement agencies, or about 80% of all such agencies.

About a third of Black adults said they were worried daily or nearly daily that they might be threatened or attacked because of their race or identity, according to a Pew Research Center survey in April 2022. In comparison, 21% of Asian American adults and 14% of Hispanic adults felt similarly, while just 4% of white adults reported feeling the same.

Barbara Lloyd, of Charleston, S.C., cries during the singing of "We Shall Overcome" at a memorial service for nine victims of the shooting by Dylann Roof at Emanuel AME Church, in Charleston, S.C.

The survey found that nearly 3 in 10 Black adults (28%) said they had changed their daily routine or schedule in the previous year because of those fears.

Hate crimes and violence against Black people in the United States are not new. The nations history has been marred by such attacks, from centuries of slavery to the lynchings of thousands of Black men, women and children in the early 20th century. While many of those attacks happened in the South, there was also racial violence in Northern communities.

Many of the attacks were part of a backlash from whites in power, including lawmakers, and happened in the wake of Reconstruction and later the Jim Crow era.

Florida Gov. DeSantis accused of feeding racial divisions

Muhammad, of Harvard University, said it struck a chord that while thousands gathered in the nations capital Saturday for the 60th anniversary of the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom, three Black people were killed hours later because of the color of their skin.

Many speakers, including lawmakers and civil rights activists, at the march talked about the need to address violence against communities of color and the impact of toxic rhetoric. Many of those comments were aimed at Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, who is also running for president in the GOP primary.

There's no history of anti-racist struggle in America, Black freedom movements or civil rights history that doesn't connect the dots between political leaders and the kind of hateful and racist behavior that we saw in Jacksonville over the weekend, Muhammad said. So there's no reason to disassociate those two things at this moment. Gov. Ron DeSantis has made it painstakingly clear that he is not committed to protecting the rights of Black people in Florida when it comes to how their children learn, what their children experience if they happen to be part of the LGBTQ+ community.

At a vigil Sunday in Jacksonville, DeSantis condemned the shooting. "Perpetrating violence of this kind is unacceptable, and targeting people due to their race has no place in this state of Florida," DeSantis said. "We are not going to allow in the state of Florida our HBCUs to be targets for hateful lunatics." He was booed at times during his appearance.

Hundreds participate in the National Action Network demonstration in response to Gov. Ron DeSantis' rejection of a high school African American history course, Wednesday, Feb. 15, 2023, in Tallahassee, Fla.

Desantis battle against woke culture in Florida has included blocking an Advanced Placement African American studies course in high schools and attempting to restrict conversations about race in schools and businesses.

Howard, of Reparations United, said its no surprise the latest mass shooting happened in Florida, which he considers a hotbed right now in large part because of DeSantis rhetoric.

DeSantis is a leading voice for an anti-woke movement, and for many that means an anti-Black movement, Howard said. You can start talking about not teaching history and the other rhetoric, but his ultimate message is anti-Blackness.

Melina Abdullah, a professor of Pan-African studies at California State University, Los Angeles, and a co-founder of Black Lives Matter Los Angeles, said DeSantis has enabled violent actions such as the shooting through both his rhetoric and policy.

On Monday, DeSantis announced that $1 million would go to strengthen campus security at Edward Waters University, the historically Black institution where the shooter first arrived and was ordered by security to leave, through the Volunteer Florida Foundation. The governor also said $100,000 will be donated to the charity supporting the victims families.

Dont want murder to be normalized

Washington, of the MaliVai Washington Youth Foundation, said hes still getting messages and calls from friends and family asking whether his organization was affected by the shooting.

Hey, are you OK? some ask.

We cant accept this kind of hatred, he said. We absolutely don't want murder to be normalized. I think it's incumbent upon all of us to do little things, every single day, every week, every month, every year in our communities, to make our communities a little bit better, and a little bit safer.

Peter Cvjetanovic (R) along with Neo Nazis, Alt-Right, and White Supremacists encircle and chant at counter protestors at the base of a statue of Thomas Jefferson after marching through the University of Virginia campus with torches in Charlottesville, Va., on Aug. 11, 2017.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Shooting in Jacksonville: Many Black Americans fear racial violence
Florida State and Florida A&M universities as well as Tallahassee Community College will all be closed as of noon Tuesday through Friday ahead of Tropical Storm Idalia and its expected impact.

The campuses will also be closed Monday for the Labor Day holiday, and they expect to reopen Tuesday, Sept. 5.

The extended closures of the institutions follow initial announcements Monday stating that only Wednesday would be closed.

Additional precautions are being taken as recent updates on Idalia show westward movement in the storm's track and models that have raised the danger level for Tallahassee as it is expected to make landfall as a category 3 hurricane.

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A hurricane warning and flood watch were both issued for Leon County Tuesday, and winds are expected on the west coast of the state by late Tuesday night or early Wednesday morning as the storm threatens to hit Florida's Big Bend.

More on Idalia: Live Idalia updates: Florida shutting down, evacuating and bracing for major hurricane

More: Idalia: Hurricane will bring catastrophic surge to Florida coast | Forecast

The college and university announcements started being made shortly after the Leon County School District announced its closure.

As the hurricane approaches, TCC is holding a pop-up emergency distribution on campus in its Student Union building at noon Tuesday while supplies last, according to a TCC spokesperson.

Here is more information from FSU, FAMU and TCC Communications about the steps they are taking as their campuses will be closed, with classes also being canceled:

FSU

University officials have reviewed the latest forecast for Hurricane Idalia from the National Hurricane Center, and based on the 11 a.m. ET advisory and in anticipation of widespread power outages in Tallahassee and Leon County, the FSU Tallahassee campus will close and cancel classes beginning at 12 p.m. Tuesday and will remain closed through Friday.

Students are encouraged to discuss possible travel plans with family and friends and are discouraged from traveling into the path of the storm as weather and road conditions east and south of Tallahassee are expected to deteriorate Tuesday evening through Wednesday.

Students are encouraged to utilize this time to make sure they are adequately prepared for the storm by stocking up on necessities such as water and nonperishable foods in case a shelter-in-place order is issued.

Essential business operations will continue. Deans and Vice Presidents will provide guidance for their respective colleges and divisions. Employees designated by their department as essential personnel should consult with their supervisors. Research teams should utilize this time to ensure their labs are prepared.

Main campus housing will remain open and dining operations will be adjusted accordingly throughout the closure. Additional details on student services and programming are forthcoming.

FAMU

FAMU will suspend classes and university operations at the Tallahassee main campus, Quincy and the Viticulture Center from 12:30 p.m. Tuesday through Friday. The university will reopen for normal operations Sept. 5.

Drop and add dates will be extended. One-Stop-Shop will continue 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on Sept. 5 in the Grand Ballroom on campus.

The Hub and the Top Cafe on campus will remain open until 7 p.m. Tuesday. Meal accommodations will be made for students daily. Residence halls will be open, and students are urged to shelter in place.

The Educational Research Center for Child Development (ERCCD) will close at 1. p.m. Tuesday and all of Wednesday.

TCC

Based on updated guidance about the anticipated impact of Hurricane Idalia to the region, TCC will close all campuses and cancel classes starting at 5 p.m. Tuesday through the remainder of the week.

The Florida Public Safety Institute is currently open and operational in order to serve as a staging site for first responders.

Contact Tarah Jean at tjean@tallahassee.com or follow her on twitter @tarahjean_.

Never miss a story: Subscribe to the Tallahassee Democrat using the link at the top of the page.

This article originally appeared on Tallahassee Democrat: FSU, FAMU, TCC close campuses, cancel classes due to Hurricane Idalia
Ukraines military reported on Aug. 29 that it made gains southeast of recently liberated Robotyne toward the village of Verbove, Zaporizhzhia Oblast.

Ukrainian soldiers are entrenching themselves at retaken territory and carrying out counter-battery fire, the General Staff of Ukraines Armed Forces said in its counteroffensive update.

The advance is part of Ukraines larger offensive operation in the direction of Melitopol, a strategically important city for cutting off the land bridge between Russia and occupied Crimea.

A day before, Kyiv announced the liberation of Robotyne, which should allow Ukrainian troops to continue advancing south toward the Russian-occupied Tokmak and Melitopol. The settlement of Verbove lies around 18 kilometers southeast of Robotyne.

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Ukrainian troops are also on the offensive south of Bakhmut, holding back Russian advances in the area simultaneously, according to the General Staff.

Read also: Inching forward in Bakhmut counteroffensive, Ukraines hardened units look ahead to long, grim war

Russia reportedly conducted unsuccessful assaults near Klishchiivka south of Bakhmut, Marinka, and Avdiivka in Donetsk Oblast.

Ukraine's military also continues holding back Russian advances in the Kupiansk and Lyman directions, reads the General Staffs update.

On Aug. 27, Eastern Force Grouping press officer Illia Yevlash said Russia had concentrated over 100,000 troops in the Kupiansk-Lyman axis.

Moscow has reportedly ramped up its offensive in the area, trying to retake the territories lost during a Ukrainian surprise counteroffensive in Kharkiv Oblast last autumn.

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
Chinese industry group calls for boycott of sea cucumbers from Japan amid wastewater dumping concern

Global Times) 10:08, August 29, 2023

A Chinese fisheries industry group on Monday urged the public to boycott sea cucumbers and similar products imported from Japan amid growing concern and anger over Japan's deliberate dumping of nuclear-contaminated wastewater into the sea last week.

Despite the opposition of the international community, Japan forcibly began the dumping of nuclear-contaminated wastewater into the Pacific Ocean, posing a threat to the health of people all over the world and the marine environment, the Sea Cucumber Industry Branch of the China Fisheries Association said in a statement on its official WeChat account.

"On behalf of the sea cucumber breeders across the country, we severely condemn Japan's despicable and selfish behavior of dumping the wastewater into the ocean, and firmly support any sanction measures adopted against it," the statement said.

For the health of consumers and industry practitioners, the industry branch association also called on all domestic industry players to carry out nuclear radiation testing on raw and finished sea cucumbers before sale.

China's General Administration of Customshas decided to fully suspend imports of aquatic products originating from Japan, which aims to "comprehensively prevent the risk of radioactive contamination caused by the dumping of nuclear-contaminated water from Fukushima to food safety, protect the health of Chinese consumers, and ensure the safety of imported food."

In a previous interview with the Global Times, Chi Feiyue, a deputy secretary-general of the China Fisheries Association, said "We resolutely oppose Japan's dumping of nuclear wastewater, since if it had an impact, it would be devastating."

The Yellow Sea region, including the Liaodong Peninsula and the Shandong Peninsula, is the main breeding ground for shellfish, oysters, sea cucumbers, algae and seaweed.

Among them, scallop farming accounts for 90 percent of China's total output while wakame, a kind of seaweed, makes up 80 percent.

Japan's dumping has caused widespread concern over the safety of food and other products from Japan, with many people in China looking for alternatives to reduce risks, leading to products such as salt being sold out on some e-commerce platforms.

A Beijing-based industry insider told the Global Times on condition of anonymity on Monday that the seafood industry is very upset with Japan's wastewater dumping and looking into the case with great concern for the possible impact on the whole industry.

"While there may be alternatives in terms of the suppliers, its impact could be more than expected, since ultimately we are all on the same boat," the person said, urging the Japanese government to stop its selfish and dangerous move at once.

Cosmetics from Japan are among the products that have been affected as people are diversifying their choices, the Global Times learned.

Since Thursday, there has been a wave of panic buying and hoarding by customers in online and physical sea cucumber stores in China. Orders have surged, and both the wholesale and retail segments have increased significantly, the Sea Cucumber Industry Branch said.

The industry association said factors including Japan's wastewater dumping and the coming consumption peak for the Mid-Autumn Festival holidays are having an effect.

The association urged domestic consumers to consume rationally and not to drive up prices, while calling on domestic industry players to keep prices at a reasonable level and not raise them.

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun)
Emily Travis of Valparaiso holds a protest sign Monday, Aug. 28, 2023, while urging drivers on Lincolnway traveling past City Hall to honk horns in support of fighting gender discrimination, as does Claudia Chastain, seen behind. (Philip Potempa/Post-Tribune)

City of Valparaiso attorney Patrick Lyp publicly addressed this months lawsuit by the citys human resources director against the mayor and the citys former administrator after protesters took to the street outside City Hall and attended the meeting seeking answers.

Kathy Lynn Gralik filed the lawsuit in U.S. District Court in Hammond Aug. 15 and, in addition to Mayor Matt Murphy and former city administrator Mike Jessen, also named the consulting firm Organizational Development Solutions, Inc., and its president, Desila Rosetti.

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She says she was discriminated against in pay and working conditions because of her gender and her salary that is thousands of dollars less than her male counterparts in the same job classification.

The firm, according to the lawsuit, was hired to conduct an audit of Graliks department, the results of which Gralik said were inaccurate.

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After nearly 23 years of service to a city and its employees that I love, I was targeted for doing my job well by assisting women with complaints against members of the Murphy Administration, Gralik said in a release provided by her attorneys.

More than two dozen protesters attended Mondays Valparaiso City Council meeting, including gathering outside Valparaiso City Hall prior to the meeting to display signs in support of fair wages and an end to gender discrimination.

We are here to bring attention to how unfairly many workplaces are to women who are doing the same jobs for less pay, said Emily Travis of Valparaiso, one of the protesters who joined the sign march.

We want to be heard. This lawsuit is bringing light to a problem that has existed too long at many workplaces.

During the community update portion of the meeting, Murphy asked Lyp to address concerns about the lawsuit.

The city insurance coverage has accepted the claim associated with the lawsuit and will cover the costs, Lyp said.

The city employee who filed the lawsuit is still employed by the city. Every employer should fairly compensate all employees for the same job, with similar working conditions and requiring the same amount of skill, effort and responsibility, Lyp said. A claim of unequal pay does not mean an employer is guilty of discrimination.

Lyp said the lawsuits comparison example of pay amounts for the citys information technology director and the HR director is not a valid comparison based on the jobs and positions.

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I am very comfortable stating that the city has not engaged in the acts of discrimination alleged in the complaint and intends to vigorously defend itself, Lyp said.

It is unlikely this lawsuit will be resolved quickly. There are people of good will here in the council chambers this evening who have questions and concerns.

Kathy DeWitt who organized the protest Monday said the issue of equal pay for women has continued to be a battle fought since 1963 and before.

I organized our supporters tonight through my closed social media group which now has more than 3,000 members, DeWitt said.

Us being here tonight has nothing to do with the politics of the employee who filed the lawsuit. Look at our signs and it explains exactly why we are here. Equal pay for all employees.

Lyp said he has advised all city officials to refrain from any further public comment and that any comment in the future or updates would be conveyed by news release.

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Graliks grievances, according to her own earlier news release, include violations of her constitutional rights arising from gender discrimination, including pay discrimination; harassment; retaliation; and defamation.

Gralik has worked for the city since September 2000, according to the lawsuit, and has been human resources director for seven years. Though still employed by the city, she said she has been informed that her position will be eliminated by Dec. 31 if not sooner as part of a department restructuring suggested by ODS.

The city, on the firms recommendation, hired a chief human resources officer, a position Gralik applied for and did not receive, according to the lawsuit. In June, when the new CHRO was hired, the City of Valpo and Murphy demoted Gralik from her department head position and removed her from the citys leadership team.

Philip Potempa is a freelance reporter for the Post-Tribune.
A Marietta man was convicted for molesting and raping a child for close to a decade by a Cobb County jury.

According to the Cobb County District Attorneys Office, John Galczynski, 68, was under investigation in February 2021 after a then-minor told her therapist shed been sexually assaulted.

After, the child told detectives that a relative had repeatedly raped and molested her for multiple years, mentioning an incident when she was as young as 5-years-old while visiting Galczynskis home in Marietta.

[DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]

At trial, the jury heard from another woman who was molested and raped by Galczynksi from when she was 11 until she turned 19, according to a statement from Cobb Assistant DA Lindsay Raynor.

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The 12-person jury quickly reached a verdict of guilty on one count of rape, one count of child molestation and one count of incest, the DAs office said.

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According to criminal records from the Cobb County Sheriffs Office, Galczynski was indicted on felony rape, felony aggravated sexual battery, felony incest, and two counts of child molestation.

Following his conviction, he was given a life sentence, an additional 69 years in prison and an additional year of probation upon release.

The defendant repeatedly abused the victim when she was just 5 years old and forced her to do unspeakable things to him. This child gave powerful testimony at trial which allowed the jury to see the pattern of abuse and hold Mr. Galczynski accountable for his crimes, Raynor said in a statement. The hard work of law enforcement, SafePath Childrens Advocacy Center, and this jury ensured this predator cannot victimize any more children.

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A failed bank robbery sparked a chase that ended when the getaway car struck a teenage boy, California sheriffs officials reported.

A man in a ski mask walked into a San Lorenzo bank at 3:45 p.m. Monday, Aug. 28, and gave a teller a note demanding $20,000, an Alameda County sheriffs spokesperson told McClatchy News.

The robber threatened in the note to blow up the bank if his demands were not met, officials said.

But the robber then walked out of the bank without receiving the money and got into a blue four-door sedan parked outside, officials told KPIX.

A nearby deputy on patrol received a report of the robbery and began pursuing the sedan, officials told McClatchy News.

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A short time later, the getaway car hit a teenage boy walking nearby, officials said. The deputy stopped to check on the boy, who was taken to a hospital with scratches and bruises.

The bank robber escaped, along with another person in the vehicle, sheriffs officials said. An investigation into the robbery continues.

San Lorenzo is about 20 miles east of San Francisco.

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The city of Fort Worth has banned two residents from City Council meetings until 2024 for their disruptive behavior during public comment.

The bans are the result of cumulative infractions and disruptions by both men, said city spokesperson Reyne Telles in an email to the Star-Telegram.

The public deserves to have meetings conducted in an orderly manner, and the conduct of these individuals consistently disrupted the business of the council, Telles said.

The residents, Bob Willoughby and Adrian Smith, will only be able to participate through phone calls or submitting comments, according to letters sent to both from city manager David Cooke and city attorney Leann Guzman.

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Both men attend nearly every city council meeting either in person or virtually. Willoughby has been regularly attending meetings since at least 2015. Hes critical of the citys code compliance department and of a November 2021 change to the council meeting format.

Willoughby was cited in the letter for repeatedly addressing the audience and city staff instead of the council, which is a violation of the City Councils rules and procedures. He was also faulted for going off topic instead of speaking about the individual agenda items hed signed up to speak about.

Willoughby denied that he regularly goes off topic. He said the city cuts him off before hes made his point. He faulted the city for not giving him a warning before he was banned.

Mr. Willoughby has consistently disregarded council rules of procedure despite being repeatedly warned about his disruptive conduct, Telles said.

Smiths ban goes beyond council meetings. He must make an appointment 24 hours in advance if he has business at City Hall.

He was removed from the Aug. 22 council meeting as he continued to speak after his allotted three minutes expired. After leaving the chamber, Smith could be heard in the hallway calling Mayor Mattie Parker a slur that is demeaning to women.

I regret allowing myself to get that angry, Smith said, while adding the ban and the citys description of his behavior does not paint an accurate picture of his character.

Im not doing this for likes or a following. Im doing this cause its in my heart, he said.

The activist group United My Justice scheduled a rally in support of Willoughby and Smith at 5 p.m. Tuesday at City Hall. The group argues the citys ban is a violation of the mens right to free speech.

Cities have the right to make reasonable rules about how people can attend public meetings, said Hannah Bloch-Wehba, an associate law professor at Texas A&M law school.

The problem a lot of cities are running into is the accusation these rules are being enforced in a non-neutral way, Bloch-Wehba said.

If cities discriminate against a resident based on that persons particular view point, thats not allowed, she said.

However, if a person is being so disruptive that a city cant conduct regular business, courts give cities a lot more leeway, said Amy Sanders, an associate professor at the University of Texas at Austins school of journalism and media.

The First Amendment isnt a guarantee that youll be heard or that people will listen. Its the right to speak, she said.
Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken meets with Chinese President Xi Jinping in the Great Hall of the People in Beijing on June 19. (Leah Millis / Associated Press)

China is going to eat our lunch? Come on, man, scoffed then-presidential candidate Joe Biden in 2019. Two years later, Biden declared The Chinese are eating our lunch. Theyre eating our lunch, economically. Theyre investing hundreds of billions of dollars in research and development.  We got to compete.

Mario Cuomo famously said politicians campaign in poetry, but govern in prose. But in this case, the poet was closer to the mark. The Chinese economic rocket looks to be running out of fuel.

Chinese economic statistics have never been entirely reliable, but the last reported number for urban youth unemployment we have is 21.3% (it may actually be closer to 50%). One sign it will get worse: China recently announced it will no longer be publishing youth unemployment or consumer confidence numbers.

Read more: Wall Street drops as faltering Chinese economy sets off global slide

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China is also facing a ripening debt crisis and potential deflationary spiral. For decades, the Chinese government has encouraged real estate speculation and over-investment. As a result, millions of Chinese small investors and families put their eggs in the housing basket, fueling massive bubbles, soaring home prices and crushing increases in debt. Countless skyscrapers, airports, highways, even whole cities, are little more than white elephants thanks to state-directed over-building.

Now, the housing sector  roughly a quarter of Chinas economy  is cratering. Falling prices, construction industry bankruptcies and slower growth generally, are scaring consumers out of spending and raising concerns about deflation.

Foreign investment in China is drying up as investors see more contraction on the horizon and foreign firms  and even Chinese ones  move their supply chains elsewhere.

President Xi Jinpings authoritarian response to all of these and other economic challenges is to insist that everyone should toughen up in the name of national rejuvenation. Young people need to abandon arrogance and pampering and embrace the Maoist spirit of self-sacrifice, which is why the state cracked down on decadent video-game playing. Eat bitterness he tells college grads while banning private test-tutoring, throwing many educated young people out of work in the name of social equality.

Read more: Can food stalls help save Chinas economy? Young people are quitting their jobs to find out

Xi believes China is rich enough to do what it needs to do  supplant the United States as the global leader and become a hegemon in, for starters, its own neighborhood. Politically enforced internal discipline, military expansion and consolidation of political and economic power in his hands, is more important than additional economic growth. And by implementing such measures, he all but assures that the economy will get worse. Markets need reliable information and freedom to function, but information is joining economic freedom in lock-up.

In the 1990s, the neoliberal consensus was that economic liberalization would push China toward political liberalization. Today, that consensus is out of favor just about everywhere. But its increasingly clear that Xi agrees with that view  he just thinks political liberalization is bad. Which is why hes so willing to tolerate economic contraction to stave off liberalization in any other sphere.

Its no coincidence that Biden claimed China was eating our lunch when he wanted to get his American Jobs Plan approved. In America, the argument for state-directed economic planning is always made in the language of competitiveness.

Read more: China's July exports tumble by double digits, adding to pressure on economy

According to the simplistic binary logic of competitiveness Chinas economic woes should be good news for America. This zero-sum view sees gains in gross domestic product as points on a scoreboard, where our wins are their losses. But it doesnt work that way. Contrary to a lot of bipartisan talking points, China getting richer didnt make America poorer. And if Chinas economy implodes, our economy will suffer as a result.

Policymakers have been struggling to define the Chinese challenge. Is it merely a competitor or a strategic adversary? The Biden administration has been clear that it would prefer to keep China an economic competitor and not a strategic or military adversary. And it has taken a number of praiseworthy steps to prevent the latter.

But its important to get the causation right. The Chinese threat is geopolitically and ideologically driven, not economically. Constraining Chinas access to sensitive technology and buttressing alliances in the region is necessary not because of Chinas money, but because of what the Chinese regime wants to buy with it. A rich, democratic China would be good for everyone, especially China.

@JonahDispatch









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.
The best time to book your flights for Christmas is around 71 days before your departure, per Google.

That's a big change from 2022 when Google said the best time to book Christmas flights was 22 days before departure.

US-Europe flights hit their lowest fares 72 days or more before departure, it said.

The best time to book your flights for Christmas is around 71 days before the departure day, according to Google's analysis of its historical data of US flights.

That means booking flights between October 13 and October 15 to snag the best deals for travel between December 23 and December 25.

The company shared this data as part of its announcement of Google Flights' new "cheapest time to book" feature on Monday. It analyzed average airfares on Google Flights between 2018 and 2023 for the top 4,000 US markets.

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Moreover, the best time to book US-Europe flights is 72 days or more before departure, the company said.

These estimates are a big change from the company's recommendations in 2022 when it said the best time to book Christmas flights was 22 days before departure. At the time, it also said the best time for booking US-Europe flights was 50 days or more before departure.

Google Flights' new feature adds to its current travel insight tools which show if prices are cheaper or more expensive than average for the search, as well as a new pilot program for price guarantees making up the difference if the fare drops.

The US Travel Association predicts the total number of domestic trips in 2023 will surpass 2019 numbers, a first since the pandemic began. The association expects about 2.4 billion domestic trips will be undertaken in 2023, 70 million more than in 2019.

Moreover, the World Tourism Organization said in its 2023 outlook that it expects international tourist arrivals to reach 80% to 95% of pre-pandemic levels this year.

To be sure, the company has previously drawn flak for how its insights misrepresent the carbon footprint of a flight, according to climate experts. These experts told the BBC that Google Flights' new methodology for calculating your flight's footprint  introduced in 2022  excludes many pollutants, meaning only half of a flight's environmental impact is most likely shown.

Google did not immediately respond to a request for comment from Insider, sent outside regular business hours.

Read the original article on Business Insider
Federal court dismisses RNC lawsuit over Google spam filters. A federal court has dismissed the Republican National Committee (RNC) lawsuit accusing Google of being biased against Republicans and reflecting this by marking RNC emails as spam. There are legitimate reasons why Gmail filters may have considered the emails spam and insufficient evidence to suggest the company acted out of deliberate bias or in bad faith.

The suit was filed in 2022, with the RNC accusing Google of intentionally or negligently "discriminating" against Republicans and attempting "to secretly suppress the political speech and income of one major political party." Google alleged that it did no such thing, and any increase in RNC emails being marked as spam was likely the result of things like users marking them as spam, emails being sent too frequently, or issues with the RNC's domain authentication.

In a ruling last week, U.S. District Judge Daniel Calabretta said it was a "close case" but the RNC hadn't "sufficiently pled that Google acted in bad faith."

The RNC "argues that the only reasonable inference for why its emails were labelled as spam is Google's alleged political animus toward the RNC," but "this is pure speculation, lacking facts from which the Court could infer animus or an absence of good faith," wrote Calabretta.

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The judge also pointed out that designating certain emails as spam is the kind of content moderation protected by Section 230.

Section 230 "affords interactive computer service providers immunity from liability for decisions related to blocking and screening of offensive material, or for providing others with the technical means to do so," he explained, noting that "Congress itself has recognized the harm spam can cause in enacting the Controlling the Assault of NonSolicited Pornography and Marketing ('CANSPAM') Act of 2003."

The RNC argued that its emails couldn't conceivably be considered spam since they were only sent to people who had subscribed at some point to their email lists. But "the fact that the RNC sent emails to individuals who requested them at some point in time does not undermine this conclusion," wrote Calabretta. He continued:

just because a user interacts with a company at one point in time does not mean that the user 'solicits' each and every email sent by the entity. Most individuals who use email are likely familiar with having engaged with an entity one time (such as by purchasing a particular product) only to have that entity send numerous other emails, many or all of which are no longer relevant or wanted. While a user may be generally able to opt out of those emails, an email provider such as Google may reasonably segregate those sorts of mass mailings (even though they were originally requested by the user in the legal sense) in order to ensure that 'wanted electronic mail messages' will not be 'lost, overlooked, or discarded amidst the larger volume of unwanted messages.' It is clear from the Complaint that the RNC sends out a significant number of emails to individuals on its list. While it may be that some, perhaps many, users specifically wanted each and every one of those emails, Google could reasonably consider these mass mailings to be objectionable, just as it can for other email senders  Application of section 230 in this case, then, turns on whether the RNC has sufficiently pled that Google did not act in "good faith" when filtering the RNC's emails. While it is a relatively close case, the Court concludes Plaintiff has not sufficiently pled facts to establish that Google has acted without good faith.  In this case, the RNC's allegation that Google acted in 'bad faith' does not rise above the speculative level.  In short, the only fact alleged by the RNC to support its conclusory allegation that 'Google's interception and diversion of the RNC's emails, and the harm it is causing to the RNC, is intentional, deliberate, and in bad faith,' is the North Carolina State University study that expressly states there is no reason to believe Google was acting in bad faith, and the remainder of the allegations in the Complaint are inconsistent with such a conclusion. In light of the multiple reasonable explanations for why the RNC's emails were filtered as set forth in the Complaint, the Court does not find the RNC's allegation that Google was knowingly and purposefully harming the RNC because of political animus to be a 'reasonable inference.'

The aforementioned study did find that Gmail marked many more right-leaning candidate emails than left-leaning candidate emails as spam in new accounts created by researchers. But "the study itself does not attribute any motive to Google," noted Calabretta. It also found that all three email services (Gmail, Outlook, and Yahoo) tested seemed to have a political bias in their spam filtersalbeit smaller and going the other direction for Outlook and Yahooand that the Gmail spam filter "responded significantly more rapidly to user interactions compared to Outlook and Yahoo."

You can read Calabretta's full ruling here.

It follows a finding from the Federal Election Commission (FEC) earlier this year that there was "no reason to believe" that Google parent company Alphabet used Gmail spam filters to try and thwart Republicans or benefit Democrats.

Mike Masnick at Techdirt points out that Section 230 isn't the only reason the RNC's claims failed:

The case could just end there. The claims are barred by 230, end of story. But, instead, the court decides to run through the actual claims anyway and explain why they still fail, even without Section 230. Even if Google were not entitled to section 230 immunity, each of Plaintiff's claims would still be subject to dismissal because they are either not a claim upon which relief can be granted, or because Plaintiff has failed to establish it is entitled to relief. Again, we've pointed this out repeatedly: even in the absence of Section 230, most claims that lose on 230 grounds would still lose, just that it would take longer and be more expensive.

FREE MINDS

Penny Hopper's story highlights danger of abortion bans. At the first Republican presidential debate, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis told a story about a woman named Penny who "survived multiple abortion attempts." DeSantis told this story as part of a convoluted answer to why he supported abortion bans. But far from being a warning about the horrors of the legal abortion industry, Hopper's tale is actually a cautionary tale about what people will resort to when abortion is banned.

"Penny is real and her last name is Hopper. But DeSantis failed to note key details from her remarkable story," The Miami Herald pointed out.

The person who tried to end Penny's life in the womb was not a doctor or even an illegal abortion provider  it was her father. And his effort to abort his daughter with a coat hanger took place almost two decades before the Supreme Court's seismic Roe v. Wade decision, which established a woman's right to an abortion. While DeSantis' version of Penny's story honors life and a woman who survived a traumatic beginning, it also reflects the perils of a world where abortion is all but outlawed and women can be forced into dangerous, desperate alternatives.

More here.

FREE MARKETS

Midwives fight against overregulation in Alabama. A group of Alabama midwives and doctors are challenging state regulations that "have imposed a de facto ban on freestanding birth centers throughout Alabama, preventing three such birth centers from providing much-needed pregnancy care to their patients," as the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) puts it. The regulations in question come from the Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH), which says that freestanding birth centersmany of which rely on midwives to deliver babiesmust have a hospital license. "At the same time, ADPH has made it impossible for any such birth center to even attempt to obtain such a license, creating a dilemma that is both unlawful and unjustified," the ACLU says.

In a new lawsuit, a group of doctors and midwives allege that the ADPH lacks authority to promulgate such a regulation since birth centers are not hospitals, and that even if it does have the authority to require the license it does not have the authority to entirely ban midwife-led birth centers, which it has effectively done by not providing a path to licensure.

"The state of Alabama is making it difficult if not impossible for birth centers to survive," said ACLU of Alabama Executive Director JaTaune Bosby. "Obstacles and barriers erected by state lawmakers and agencies prevent individuals, like our clients, from helping their patients. More birthing centers are needed here. Midwives and doulas are needed here. Their services provide hope and will save countless lives."

QUICK HITS

 "A Texas National Guard member shot and wounded a man along the Rio Grande in the El Paso area Saturday evening, firing across the border into Mexican territory," reports The Washington Post. "The soldier was deployed as part of Operation Lone Star, the border security mobilization directed by Gov. Greg Abbott (R) that has lined the Rio Grande with U.S. troops, concertina wire and other impediments in an effort to reduce illegal crossings."

 Jury selection begins today for the trial of Michael Lacey and other former Backpage executives. A group of 41 "journalists, editors, artists, and public servants"many of whom worked for Lacey and the now-deceased James Larkin have signed a public letter of support for Lacey, asserting that he "is the target of a vindictive prosecution, resulting from his 40-plus years as a muckraking journalist" and calling "for this travesty to end" lest "a dangerous precedent  be set, whereby the U.S. government can prosecute people for third-party speech simply because the authorities find that speech objectionable."

 The National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) has in its possession "nearly 5,400 emails, electronic records and documents that potentially show President [Joe] Biden using a pseudonym during his vice presidency," reports the New York Post.

 Fallout continues for the Kansas cops who raided a small-town newspaper. "The raid of the Marion County Record is now international news, thanks in large part to the flagrant First Amendment violations," notes Techdirt, which rounds up the latest updates (including Marion County Attorney Joel Ensey withdrawing the warrants used to justify the raid).

 Talking about sex online shouldn't be illegal.

 Are both the left and the right getting Oliver Anthony wrong?

The post Google Isn't Intentionally Biased Against Republicans, Says Court appeared first on Reason.com.
(KTLA)  Google recently updated a powerful privacy feature called Results About You. The improvements make it even easier to find and remove your personal information from Google search results.

This can include information like your phone number, email and home address.

We know people would like to have more peace of mind about how their personal contact information appears online. So, this new Results About You dashboard is designed to make the process easier, said Danny Sullivan, Googles Public Liaison for Search.

Heres how it works:

Once you sign up for the free service, Google will monitor the internet for mentions of your name, address, email and phone number. It will alert you when a new page pops up with your information.

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What does the orange dot on my iPhone mean?

Then, in just one click, you can request to have the web page removed from Googles search results.

Keep in mind, while Google can remove the link from its search results, it cant take it off the internet entirely, explained Sullivan.

To fully delete the information, youll need to reach out to individual sites hosting your details and submit removal requests.

Also, theres no guarantee that Google will approve your takedown request.

Still, this is a great way to help you regain some control over your digital footprint.

Costco crackdown: Can people in my household still use my Costco membership?

To sign up for Results About You:

Open the Google app on your phone (iOS or Android)

Tap your profile icon in the upper right corner

Select Results About You

Follow the steps to input the personal information you would like Google to keep an eye out for. Once it finds your info online, it will put the results into a section called Results to review.

You can then tap to request the removal. When new results pop up online, Google will alert you on your phone to review them.

Keep in mind, it may take a few days for changes and removal requests to take effect.

This is just one way to get rid of some of your personal information online and remember that if the data is coming from a public source  like a government database  it can easily pop up again on a different site.

You may also want to check out the DIY Opt-Out Guides at DeleteMe to request takedowns from various data brokers, people finders and background check sites.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA.
Back at I/O, we got a sense of some of Google's big plans for generative artificial intelligence, including the integration of the Duet AI virtual assistant into Workspace productivity apps. The company is now starting to roll out Duet AI to those who pay for versions of Docs, Gmail, Sheets and so on that are geared toward professional use. The virtual assistant is also making its way to Google Meet and Google Chat.

There's a free trial of Duet AI for Google Workspace. However, to use the virtual assistant in the cloud-based apps after that, large organizations will need to pay $30 per month per user, according to The Verge. Microsoft charges the same for 365 AI Copilot in Office apps. Duet AI pricing for smaller organizations hasn't been finalized yet.

Duet AI has a lot of tools in its belt that are designed to lighten your workload. You can use it to generate an entire email draft in Gmail. It can pore over emails and a swathe of documents and spreadsheets to create a summary of recent work activities (such as your company's quarterly performance). The assistant can then build a presentation for you based on its findings  but definitely review the slides to make sure all the facts and figures are accurate before showing them to your bosses. And, of course, Duet AI can generate images as well.

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The virtual assistant will be able to help you out on other fronts too, including in Google Meet and Chat. It has somewhat different functions in Meet, since it can help you "look and sound your best with studio look, studio lighting and studio sound," Google Workspace general manager and vice president Aparna Pappu wrote in a blog post. Duet AI can use face detection and dynamic tiles to give everyone in a meeting room their own video tile, perhaps with the idea of making all the participants feel more engaged and connected.

Meet will be able to offer translated captions in 18 languages. Google says the app can tell when someone is speaking in another language and display translated text in real time. (For comparison, Zoom has offered live transcription to free users for nearly two years.)

Duet AI's note-taking functions should prove useful too. A "take notes for me" feature will prompt the assistant to jot down action items and capture video snippets, then send a summary to attendees after the fact. If you're unable to join a meeting right at the beginning (or you slept in, we're not judging), Duet AI can catch you up on what you missed with an in-progress summary.

Google Duet AI in Google Meet, showing a feature that can catch users up on what they missed in a meeting if they join it late.

If you can't make it to a meeting at all, you can send Duet AI on your behalf. The assistant can get your points across to other attendees and still make sure you get a summary afterwards. However, if all participants use Duet AI as their proxy, Meet will seemingly be able to detect that and end the meeting.

On top of all of that, the company is stuffing Duet AI into Google Chat too. Google is trying to make the app more of a competitor to Slack and Microsoft Teams, which could make a lot of sense for organizations that are already paying for Workspace for other productivity apps.

You'll be able to ask Duet AI questions about topics of discussion. The assistant will be able to get you up to speed on conversations you missed and summarize documents that others have shared. Google has refreshed Chat's user interface and added more shortcuts and an enhanced search function that includes suggested queries and autocomplete. Autocorrect could help you avoid typos in your messages too. Chat communities will also eventually be able to include up to 500,000 users, while those who need to talk something out using their voices will be able to hop into a Meet-powered huddle.

As for privacy, Google says that users' interactions with Duet AI will be private to them. "No other user will see your data and Google does not use your data to train our models without your permission," Pappu wrote. "Building on these core commitments, we recently announced new capabilities to help prevent cyber threats, provide safer work with built-in zero trust controls, and better support our customers digital sovereignty and compliance needs."

Generative AI tools have had a largely fraught relationship with privacy so far, with some companies reportedly restricting workers' ChatGPT use over concerns that they may accidentally leak proprietary data. Italy also briefly banned the chatbot due to privacy worries. Just this week, ChatGPT owner OpenAI debuted an Enterprise offering. The company says it won't train its AI models on Enterprise subscribers' usage of the service  a similar claim to the one Google just made with Duet AI.

Google will surely see Duet AI as a competitor to ChatGPT and Microsoft Copilot. It's letting third-party companies use the underlying tech for other apps, such as an upcoming GE Appliances app that can generate recipes based on the food in a fridge (it's hard to think of an AI-powered app that would improve my life more than this). Meanwhile, as The Wall Street Journal notes, Google will make its PaLM 2 language learning model more broadly available after only granting select customers access until now.

Google (and Alphabet) CEO Sundar Pichai told the publication that the company will offer Gemini  its direct answer to ChatGPT  to cloud customers when it's ready fro primetime. Google is also scaling up its infrastructure to handle the demands of AI functionality, but Pichai admitted that the company doesn't have a crystal ball in that regard. Its tough to fully predict the demand, he told the Journal. I think we will be OK, but does it keep me up at night? Yes.
A free library in a mountain village in Shaoyang, Hunan province, recently celebrated its 20th anniversary, offering a place to read and dream.

The Ziqiang Library was founded by 76-year-old Yang Guangxun, who was born in the village. When Yang retired as a government official in Shaoyang in 2002, he and his wife sometimes returned to the village to live.

Yang has been an avid book lover, with more than 200,000 books at his home.

The couple learned that children in the village often had trouble finding books to read, so Yang decided to donate all his books to start the library in August 2003. He hoped that children and adults in the village will enrich their lives through reading.

Over the past 20 years, Yang has donated hundreds of thousands of yuan to buy more books for the library. It has been expanded several times and now stores more than 54,000 books. It has 30,000 visitors every year.

As the couple now live in Changsha, the management of the library has been entrusted to friends and family in the village.

Yang Chengshang, a resident, has managed the library since its founding. He learned about traditional Chinese medicine through reading books at the library and has become a well-known TCM specialist.

At the library's 20th anniversary celebration on Aug 19, a number of children received a Young Book Lover certificate. The certificate is given to children who love reading and are willing to read for a long time, Yang Guangxun said.

Yang Chao, 10, a fifth-grader at a local primary school, was one of the recipients. He said he likes to read children's books at the library and often read with his friends for several hours there.

Influenced by the library, dozens of people in the village have received bachelor degrees; eight have obtained master's or doctoral degrees.

"The best thing in the world is reading," Yang Guangxun said. He has decided to move back to the village with his wife recently to help manage the library.
A GOP activist and lawyer was fatally stabbed over the weekend under circumstances that police and prosecutors are still investigating.

Alexander Talcott, 41, was found dead inside his home in Durham, New Hampshire, early Saturday morning with a stab wound to his neck, the state attorney generals office said in a statement released on Sunday.

Authorities said they have identified the parties involved in the stabbing and do not believe there is a threat to the public.

The killers identity has not been released to the public as the investigation remains active. The state attorney generals office declined to comment further.

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The investigation into Mr. Talcotts death is ongoing and includes whether the person who stabbed Mr. Talcott acted in self-defense, the statement read.

No arrests have been made. Peter Hinckley, a senior assistant attorney general, told the Boston Globe on Monday that investigators found no signs of forced entry at Talcotts home.

Alexander Talcott

Alexander Talcott

Talcott previously served as the Republican National Lawyers Associations state director for New Hampshire, according to William OBrien, the groups current leader in the state.

In a statement to local news outlet NBC10 Boston, OBrien called Talcott a staunch advocate for the core values of the Republican Party.

His unwavering belief in liberty, free markets, and limited government resonated deeply in his role as a lawyer. Within the RNLA, his leadership was unwavering in promoting our shared values, ensuring every member felt empowered and well-prepared, OBrien told NBC10.

In an interview with Authority Magazine last year, Talcott described his passion for his work in real estate and private equity law.

The times Ive been called upon to brief senators, governors, members of Congress on areas of expertise in housing, finance, and political strategy have made me feel like Im living up to my purpose, Talcott said.

Related...
North Carolina is under a state of emergency in anticipation of two hurricanes that will brush the state this week.

Hurricanes Franklin and Idalia are expected to bring the potential for rip currents along the coast, flash flooding in Southeastern North Carolina and heavy rain as far inland as I-95 midweek.

NCs state of emergency for Hurricane Idalia

North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper declared a state of emergency on Monday. The declaration will:

Activate the states emergency operations plan.

Waive transportation rules to help the transport of fuel and critical supplies and services.

Help first responders and assist the agriculture industry to prepare in advance for inclement weather.

Protect consumers from price gouging.

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We are continuing to monitor Idalias course and its potential impacts on our state and its critical to make sure we are fully prepared, Cooper said in a press release.

It is important for North Carolinians to gather emergency kits and prepare for the storm before its too late. We also want to make sure our farmers are able to protect their crops.

What does a state of emergency mean?

A State of Emergency can be declared by a governor, local mayor, governing body of a municipality, county or the General Assembly.

According to the Department of Public Safety, declaring a State of Emergency will:

Enable government officials to take extra measures to protect the public

Trigger anti-price gouging laws

Seek state or federal funding aid for disaster response if it is warranted

Declarations typically include:

A description of the geographical area covered.

Lists of prohibitions and/or restrictions on certain activities.

At the state level, other executive orders may be issued along with the state of emergency declaration. Restrictions can include limiting transportation, controlling the comings and goings from an emergency area or ordering evacuations.

A state of emergency does not mean:

Schools, businesses or government offices are automatically closed. (Note: Some school districts, colleges, universities and employers may have established policies about closing during a declaration.)

You cannot drive (Note: Unless this is specifically stated in the declaration).

Source: ncdps.gov

How to prepare for Hurricanes Idalia, Franklin in NC

Cooper and state officials advise taking the following precautions to ensure everyones safety:

Have multiple ways to receive emergency information, including watches and warnings. Make sure emergency alerts are enabled on a cell phone and download a weather app.

Have an emergency plan. Know where to go if theres a need to evacuate. Make a plan to stay with family, friends or at a hotel. Public shelters should be a last resort.

Gather some emergency supplies or refresh an emergency kit. Visit ReadyNC.gov for info on how to build an emergency kit.

If people live near or are visiting the coast, be aware if you are located in a coastal evacuation zone. Visit KnowYourZone.nc.gov to see if you are located in a pre-determined evacuation zone. Learn your zone and listen for it if evacuations are ordered by local governments.

Never drive through flooded roadways. Turn around, dont drown.

For more, visit governor.nc.gov.

Hurricane Idalia update for Aug. 29: When storm makes landfall, how it will impact NC

3 named storms have formed in the Atlantic and 2 more are brewing. What to expect in NC.
DYERSBURG, Tenn.  Tennessee Governor Bill Lee stopped in Dyersburg Monday after staying under the radar as the special session began last week.

Tennessee Governor Bill Lee was very visible as he and Mrs. Lee toured the Dyersburg Community Colleges nursing and EMT programs.

Theyre innovative, creative and making changes to their programs so the students, when they leave here, are equipped, Lee said.

State-of-the-art mannequins costing $75,000 to $100,000 allow instructors to change heart rate, blood rate, and respiratory rate.

Democrats walk out of House session after Rep. Jones silenced; Gallery cleared

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They will speak to you, we can vocalize with the patients, and we have a SIM mom mannequin that can actually deliver a baby, said Dawn Chalk, associate professor of nursing.

Governor Lee praised students and Dyersburg Communitys commitment to meeting demands of todays workforce.

Vocational education, incredibly important. Programs like this that actually skill people up so they can get a job, he said.

Where do these major bills stand in Tennessees special session?

Afterward, he did not shy away from commenting on criticism that hes been missing in action from a special legislative session he called to address public safety.

I have met with a hundred lawmakers or more, with groups all summer long and asked them to bring forth their ideas so we can make Tennessee a safer state, Lee said.

As murder and homicide numbers continue to climb in Memphis, Lee remains hopeful the special session will bare fruit and legislators will work through their differences.

MPD data shows murders, auto thefts going up again

This is something well be talking now, next year, and the year after because living in a safe neighborhood matters to every Tennessean and we should never stop working on improving what we build on from this session on forward, Lee said.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WREG.com.
More than 300 children have been evacuated from front-line areas in Kharkiv Oblast's Kupiansk district since Aug. 9, Oblast Governor Oleh Syniehubov reported on Aug. 28.

Ukrainian authorities ordered the mandatory evacuation of 37 settlements in the Kupiansk district on Aug 9.

According to Syniehubov, 718 civilians, including 178 children, left Kupiansk of their own accord to escape "constant shelling." Another 715, including 165 children, were evacuated.

Syniehubov reported that a total of 1,433 people, including 343 children, have been evacuated from dangerous areas since Aug. 9.

The evacuation orders came in response to an ongoing Russian offensive in the direction of Kupiansk. Russia has amassed around 110,000 soldiers along the Kupiansk-Lyman axis, according to Illia Yevlash, spokesperson for the Eastern Military Group.

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The town was occupied by Russian forces from Feb. 27 to Sept. 10 of 2022.

Around 12,000 civilians are thought to require evacuation.

A mandatory evacuation of children has also been declared in two front-line districts of Zaporizhzhia Oblast. In Donetsk Oblast, another 89 children are awaiting evacuation.



Read also: Ukraine war latest: Ukraine liberates Robotyne, Zaporizhzhia Oblast

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR)  Senate Pro Tempore Greg Treat and House Speaker Charles McCall have filed their response to Governor Kevin Stitts lawsuit over the Legislatures override of his tribal compact vetoes.

The Governor first vetoed tribal compact extensions related to tobacco and motor vehicle licensing/registration in early June citing the two would violate state law.

Both vetoes were overridden by the end of July.

Hours later, Stitt announced he would be suing the two chambers leaders for what he says was an overreach of their authority, saying negotiations surrounding compacts should be left up to him and not the Legislature.

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We need the Supreme Court to let us know who has the authority. We think that it clearly is with the governor, said Gov. Stitt.

AG Drummond to represent state in lawsuit over tribal gaming compacts

Now, Sen. Treat and Rep. McCall have responded to the suit, saying this case represents the efforts of an Executive who is, once again, dissatisfied with the limited nature of his power under the Oklahoma Constitution.

Indeed, the legislative acts at issue (SB 26x and HB 1005x) would not have been necessary if the Governor was able to put aside his personal vitriol toward tribal nations and negotiate compacts that are in the best interests of the State. But when the Legislature is confronted with a Governor who refuses to put the States interests before his own  invariably costing the state tens of millions of dollars over the upcoming fiscal years  it is wholly within its purview to authorize those extensions by statute. Legislature response

The legislative leaders argue the Governor does not have exclusive authority to negotiate compacts, especially when they impact the states revenue, and the issues presented by the Governor have already been decided in court.

In 2020, the Oklahoma Supreme Court determined Stitt did not have the authority to make new tribal gaming compacts with the Otoe-Missouria Tribe and Comanche Nation through the U.S. Department of the Interior.

The high court said while he can negotiate tribal gaming compacts, he must do so within the bounds of the State-Tribal Gaming Act.

A federal lawsuit over those compacts is currently pending in the U.S. District of Columbia District Court.

Report: OK Gov. used tribal gaming fund to pay nearly $2M in legal fees

The next year, the State Supreme Court once again decided Stitt overstepped his authority for his compacts with the United Keetoowah Band of Cherokee Indians and the Kialegee Tribal Town because he negotiated different terms than those included in a model gaming compact approved by voters in 2004 and without approval of a joint legislative committee.

Although the Governor may not be cast in the starring role that he so desires, he remains free to negotiate compacts, so long as those compacts are in conformance with statute But when the Governor either refuses or is incapable of engaging in productive compact discussions, the Legislature is free to act to protect the States interests. Oklahoma citizens should not once again be asked to foot the bill for a Governor who clearly has no desire to put the States interests above his personal vendettas. Legislature response

Read the full response below:

Legislature-compact-responseDownload

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KFOR.com Oklahoma City.
Russian forces shelled Kupiansk on Aug. 29, killing a 45-year-old man, Kharkiv Oblast Governor Oleh Syniehubov reported.

The man was employed as a security guard at a meat processing plant and was at work when the factory was hit.

An apartment building and a house in Kupiansk were also damaged in the attack. A 67-year-old man received shrapnel wounds, Syniehubov added.

There is an ongoing Russian offensive in the direction of Kupiansk, with around 110,000 Russian soldiers thought to be massed along the Kupiansk-Lyman axis, according to Illia Yevlash, spokesperson for the Eastern Military Group.

Ukrainian authorities ordered the mandatory evacuation of 37 settlements in the Kupiansk district on Aug 9.

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A total of 1,433 people, including 343 children, have been evacuated from front-line areas in Kharkiv Oblast's Kupiansk district since Aug. 9, Syniehubov said on Aug. 28.

Kupiansk was occupied by Russian forces from Feb. 27 to Sept. 10 of 2022.

Read also: Russian attacks kill 6, injure 11 over past day

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Greece is battling "the largest wildfire ever recorded" in the European Union, prompting the bloc to mobilize almost half of its firefighting air wing to help tackle it, a European Commission spokesman said Tuesday. Eleven planes and one helicopter from the EU fleet have been sent to help Greece counter the fire raging in the Dadia National Park, along with 407 firefighters, EU spokesman Balazs Ujvari said.

Greece's fire service told the AFP news agency that "the fire is still out of control" in the nature reserve, a major sanctuary for birds of prey. It is raging across a nearly six-mile front.

A fire department vehicle passes through a burnt forest following a wildfire in the National Park of Dadia, Alexandroupolis, Greece, on Tuesday, Aug. 29, 2023. With more than 72,000 hectares burnt, the Alexandroupolis wildfire in Evros is the largest on record in the EU. / Credit: Bloomberg via Getty Images

The EU currently has access to a collective fleet of 28 aircraft  24 water-dumping planes and four helicopters  supplied by member countries to help battle blazes in the bloc and in neighbor nations. It is working on creating a standalone, EU-funded air wing of 12 aircraft that will be fully in place by 2030.

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"We do know that fires are getting more severe," Ujvari noted. "If you look at the figures every year in the past years, we are seeing trends which are not necessarily favorable, and that calls for of course more capacities at the member states' level."

Greece has been ravaged by numerous fires this summer which the government attributes to climate change.

The EU air deployment "underscores our commitment to swift and effective collective action in times of crisis," the EU's commissioner for crisis management Janez Lenarcic said.



Fire department officials in Greece arrested two men Saturday for allegedly deliberately setting fires, while hundreds of firefighters battled wildfires that killed at least 21 people last week.

Efforts to extinguish the wildfire continue as civilians are evacuated from the towns of Avra, Atarni and Plaka near Evros, Greece, August 26, 2023. / Credit: Ayhan Mehmet/Anadolu Agency/Getty

One man was arrested on the island of Evia and accused of setting fire to dried grass. The fire department said the man confessed to having set four other fires in the area in July and August.



On Thursday last week, police arrested a 45-year-old man on suspicion of arson for allegedly setting at least three fires in the Avlona area. A search of his home revealed kindling, a fire torch gun and pine needles, police said.



Greece has been plagued by daily outbreaks of dozens of fires over the past week as gale-force winds and hot, dry summer conditions combined to whip up flames and hamper firefighting efforts.

Firefighters tackled 111 blazes Friday, including 59 that broke out in the 24 hours between Thursday and Friday evenings, the fire department said.

Although most new fires were controlled in their early stages, some grew into massive blazes that have consumed homes and vast tracts of forest.

Greece imposes wildfire prevention regulations, typically from the start of May to the end of October, to limit activities such as the burning of dried vegetation and the use of outdoor barbecues.

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Three farm labor companies and growers were fined almost $2 million after labor regulators accused them of not paying farmworkers they employed in the Fresno area, state officials said Tuesday.

The California Labor Commissioners Office said M.G. Luna Inc. of Parlier, Madera Persimmon Growers Inc. of Madera and Willems Farms Inc. of Kingsburg face $1,926,531 in fines after failing to pay 356 workers who harvested blueberries and persimmons, regulators said in a news release.

M.G. Luna collected wages from growers but did not pay laborers, the commission said. Some were not paid while others got checks that bounced.

Regulators began their investigation in September 2019 after a referral from California Rural Legal Assistance, the commission said.

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Luna Inc. faces the largest portion of the fines, which totaled more than $1.4 million, officials said. That companys business license has been suspended, according to records from the Secretary of State.

Willems Farms Inc. was fined more than $410,000.

The fines also included charges for minimum wage violations and interest payments, the commission said.

Attempts by The Bee on Tuesday to reach the companies for comment were unsuccessful.

In the agricultural industry, growers are responsible for ensuring their contractors pay the workers, according to Labor Commissioner Lilia Garcia-Brower.

In this case, the growers who contracted with M.G. Luna will pay the owed wages to workers, she said in a news release. To avoid liability as client employers, growers have an obligation to ensure that the (farm labor companies) they hire are licensed, in good standing and paying legal wages.
By Sofia Menchu

GUATEMALA CITY (Reuters) -Guatemala's supreme electoral tribunal on Monday ratified the victory of center-left candidate Bernardo Arevalo in the country's presidential election, although a new bid to suspend his party sowed fresh confusion about the fraught process.

Arevalo, a 64-year-old ex-diplomat and son of a former president, resoundingly won the Aug. 20 second-round run-off after prosecutors had earlier threatened to bar his party, Semilla, from the election, prompting an international outcry.

Electoral tribunal officials declared Arevalo the victor at a press conference, then faced questions about a document from the citizens registry published in the media that ordered a temporary suspension of Semilla's legal registration.

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In a press conference late on Monday, Arevalo said the suspension was illegal and the party would present an appeal at 7 a.m. the following day.

"The Semilla Movement will not give up," he said, denouncing what he called a process of political persecution against the party and his candidacy. He added that the registry had notified him of the suspension shortly before the official ratification.

Arevalo said he expected a call from current President Alejandro Giammattei to coordinate the transition and to take up the presidency alongside his deputy Karin Herrera on Jan. 14, 2024.

"These are the official results, and that's what counts in Guatemala," tribunal magistrate Gabriel Aguilera said.

Tribunal head Irma Palencia said the citizens registry was a lower authority and underlined that Arevalo was officially the winner.

The tribunal said Semilla had three days to file a suit against the suspension order, which Guatemalan newspaper Prensa Libre said had again come at the request of prosecutors.

Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador congratulated Arevalo on the win in a government statement expressing "concern over the different claims seeking to undermine the popular will as expressed in the polls."

The Organization of American States (OAS) also issued a statement saying the attempt to suspend Semilla was unjustified and an abusive interpretation of the law.

Late last week, the OAS human rights commission had called on Guatemala's government to increase security for Arevalo and Herrera, saying they were facing plots against their lives.

(Reporting by Sofia Menchu; Additional reporting by Carolina Pulice and Lizbeth Diaz; Writing by Sarah Morland; Editing by Leslie Adler, Stephen Coates and Raju Gopalakrishnan)
A visitor tries out a model of Xpeng during an expo in Changchun, Jilin province. [Photo/Xinhua]

Chinese electric vehicle startup Xpeng said on Monday that it has inked a deal with Didi to purchase the ride-hailing giant's smart EV unit, which would, among other things, give the 9-year-old EV maker access to the vast ride-hailing market.

As part of the deal, the startup will launch a new brand, currently developed under the project name MONA, in 2024, whose models will be priced around 150,000 yuan ($20,565), lower than those under the carmaker's namesake Xpeng marque.

Didi will provide support for the MONA project with "access to its nationwide shared mobility market", said the two companies in a joint statement.

The deal will see Didi acquire about 3.25 percent of the Hong Kong-listed automaker's equity, which could increase depending on whether production and sales targets are fulfilled. Xpeng's shares rose by 10.91 percent on Monday.

The first model, a compact EV, will hit the market in 2024. He Xiaopeng, chairman and CEO of Xpeng, told reporters that he is optimistic about the segment, expecting the model's annual sales to hit at least 100,000 units.

He added that the model will target both individual buyers and companies, with the main goal being to introduce autonomous driving functions into the price range of around 150,000 yuan.

"Smart EV products under the new brand will not only significantly increase our scale, but also accelerate the adoption of our smart EV technologies in the mass market segment, bringing our technologies to a much broader customer base," said He.

Cheng Wei, Didi's chairman and CEO, said the ride-hailing company will deepen its cooperation with Xpeng in multiple areas, "driving transformation of the transportation and automotive industries".

Areas of cooperation may include marketing, financing and insurance services as well as charging, robotaxis and international market expansion, according to the deal.

Roy Lu, a Shanghai-based auto analyst, said the deal is promising. Lu said China's vast ride-sharing market may enable Xpeng to promote autonomous driving and Didi's fleet can facilitate the startup's efforts to accumulate data in the field.

The cooperation between the two also likely signals the end to Didi's ambitions of jumping aboard the smart electric vehicle industry bandwagon.

Google and Apple reportedly plan to produce autonomous vehicles based on their competitive advantages in the e-commerce and consumer electronics markets. Smartphone maker Xiaomi won the nod to build an automotive plant earlier this month.

Chinese media reported last year that Didi was considering entering the auto industry, which involved a model under the project name of da Vinci that was scheduled to be unveiled in June this year.

The deal with Didi is Xpeng's second major agreement in around a month. On July 26, the startup announced that German automotive giant Volkswagen would acquire 4.99 percent of its equity for around $700 million.

The two will work together to roll out two mid-sized new energy vehicles in 2026, according to a joint statement.

The models will bear the Volkswagen brand while utilizing Xpeng's technologies in software and autonomous driving.

Xpeng itself is facing increasing competition in the Chinese EV market. Its sales in July totaled 11,008 units, down 4.5 percent year-on-year, despite a booming domestic EV segment.

Its sales in the first seven months stood at 52,443 units, down 35 percent from the same period last year.
(Bloomberg) -- The party of Guatemalas President-elect Bernardo Arevalo was suspended by a government agency on Monday, adding uncertainty to a process marred by legal disputes and accusations of foul play.

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The Citizens Registry, an office within the countrys electoral authority, provisionally suspended Arevalos Semilla party pending an investigation by prosecutors into whether rules were breached during its formation in 2018.

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Arevalo later told reporters that Semilla will file an appeal against the decision on Tuesday morning.

The electoral authority on Monday formally confirmed Arevalo as the winner of the Aug. 20 vote, meaning hes due to take office in January. If the ruling that dissolves his party stands, it would potentially undermine his ability to govern since Semilla legislators might have to sit as independents, making them ineligible for some legislative committees.

Arevalo, 64, remained in contention during the election campaign amid repeated attempts to overturn the result, which led US officials to warn that democracy was under threat in the country. He has pledged to weed out corruption and increase oversight of government spending in the graft-ridden nation.

Arevalo said Monday the ruling will not affect his inauguration on January 14 and said the case is part of an illegal political persecution led by those who refuse to accept that the people of Guatemala voted for change.

Irma Pelencia, the head magistrate of the electoral authority, told reporters on Monday that she and her colleagues cannot comment on the registrys ruling. However, the citizens registry is subordinate to electoral authority magistrates, she said.

(Updates with Arevalos comments from second paragraph)

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GUATEMALA CITY (Reuters) -Guatemala President Alejandro Giammattei said on Tuesday the path was set for an "orderly and transparent transition" of power following the presidential election, after a new bid to suspend the winning party sowed fresh doubts.

Giammattei added he would meet with President-elect Bernardo Arevalo, who was swept to victory vowing to tackle corruption, on Sept. 4.

"The doors are now open towards an orderly, transparent, and above all, efficient government transition," said Giammattei, speaking in a video message published online.

Giammattei's statement came after a document from the citizens registry ordering a temporary suspension of Arevalo's Semilla party's legal registration caused new confusion over the election results.

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Arevalo, a 64-year-old ex-diplomat and son of a former president, won the Aug. 20 second-round run-off with more than 58% of the vote after prosecutors had earlier threatened to bar Semilla from the election, prompting international outcry.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said later on Tuesday the United States looked forward to working with Arevalo and "will stand firm against attempts to undermine Guatemala's democracy."

On Monday the country's electoral tribunal officially declared Arevalo the victor at a press conference, but faced questions about the new suspension attempt.

Arevalo has said the suspension is illegal.

The Organization of American States (OAS), which observed the country's electoral process and called the suspension attempt unjustified, would also be present until Arevalo is due to take office on Jan. 14, Giammattei said.

(Reporting by Sofia Menchu, Writing by Isabel Woodford; Editing by Cassandra Garrison and Chris Reese)
(Bloomberg) -- Guatemalan President Alejandro Giammattei will meet with President-elect Bernardo Arevalos team on Monday to start the transition of power, easing fears of institutional gridlock.

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Giammattei said in a national address that the Secretary General of the Organization for American States, Luis Almagro, will participate in the meeting. The OAS will help oversee the entire transition and the new government will be sworn in on January 14, Giammattei said.

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Read more: Guatemala President-Elects Party Suspended Amid Probe

Arevalo, who has pledged to crack down on corruption, had his victory in the Aug. 20 election certified by the electoral authority on Monday.

He still faces challenges from the courts, however. Representatives of his Semilla party filed an appeal on Tuesday with the countrys electoral authority, seeking to overturn a provisional ruling on Monday that ordered the partys suspension.

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Fox News host Sean Hannity pressed Republican presidential primary candidate Vivek Ramaswamy about his foreign policy stances during an interview Tuesday night, honing in on his views on Israel.

I want to go over some of the issues though. You know you said, aid to Israel, our No. 1 ally, only democracy in the region, should end in 2028, and that they should be integrated with their neighbors, Hannity told Ramaswamy during an appearance on his prime-time program on Fox.

Thats false, Ramaswamy responded.

I have an exact quote. You want me to read it? Hannity countered.

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Thats actually  I can tell you the exact quote. What I said is it would be a mark of success if we ever got to a point in our relationship with Israel if Israel never needed the United Statess aid, Ramaswamy said. And, Sean, you know how politics is played. A lot of the other professional politicians who have been threatened by my rise have used that statement to say that I would cut off aid to Israel. Thats not correct.

The Fox host pressed Ramaswamy on whether he understands how important that alliance is and how important the intelligence factor is.

I understand it, I think more deeply than probably anybody in this race Ive traveled to Israel. I have business partners in Israel, he said. The reality is this, by the end of my first term, our relationship with Israel will be stronger than it ever has been because I will treat it as a true friendship, not just a transactional religion.

Ramaswamy made the controversial comments about Israel in an interview with the Washington Free Beacon earlier this month.

If were successful, the true mark of success for the U.S., and for Israel, will be to get to a 2028 where Israel is so strongly standing on its own two feet, integrated into the economic and security infrastructure of the rest of the Middle East, that it will not require and be dependent on that same level of historical aid or commitment from the U.S., the candidate reportedly said.

Fellow 2024 contender Nikki Haley, a former U.N. ambassador, has been among those who have jumped on the remarks, accusing Ramaswamy of not supporting Israel during the first Republican debate last week.

On his campaign website, Ramaswamy shot back against Haleys claim. WRONG, he wrote. By the end of Viveks first term, the US-Israel relationship will be deeper and stronger than ever because it wont be a client relationship, it will be a true friendship.

The Hill Elections 2024 coverage

Ramaswamy has seen a surge in interest and media attention in his campaign following last weeks presidential primary debate, though his support dropped slightly in national polls of GOP candidates this week.

And he remains far behind former President Trump, who Hannity is close friends with and spends hours on his radio and television shows promoting.

Last week Brian Kilmeade, another host at Fox, similarly pushed back on Ramaswamys positions relating to foreign policy.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
NEW YORK -- On the 60th anniversary of the March on Washington, the Harlem headquarters where the event was organized now has its own Harlem Heritage Marker.

"This is what happens when you save buildings," said Valerie Jo Bradley, president of Save Harlem Now!. "You save history."

Serenaded by neighbors from the New Amsterdam Musical Association, another stalwart on the landmark block, activists and politicians led a preservation celebration at 170 W. 130th St.

"Buses rolled from Birmingham and Bed-Stuy, Selma and the South Bronx, and those people came together through the tireless efforts of groups here in our beloved Harlem," said Arva Rice, president and CEO of the NY Urban League.

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Save Harlem Now! pushed the city to approve the plaque in time for the milestone anniversary of the March to point out the importance of the building, which also served girls at the turn of the 20th century as the Sojourner Truth House, offered art classes to Renaissance students like Jacob Lawrence as the Utopia House, and later provided a safe space for church friends to collaborate as the Friendship House. Friendship Baptist Church loaned organizers the space ahead of the March.

"The grandest of ideas do not take place in the grandest of places," Mayor Eric Adams said. "It takes place in basements, in the halls and small church environments. That's how it's done!"

Peeking through plaster, the facade shows its own significance, designed by New York's first licensed Black architect Vertner Woodson Tandy.

The honor also highlights the work of Bayard Rustin , who spent 90 days in the building in 1963 sorting out every detail of the big event.

"For a long time, Bayard was marginalized because of his radical politics and because he was unashamedly gay," said his partner, Walter Naegle, who is now executive director of the Bayard Rustin Fund. "A number of biographies and films have helped bring him from the shadows and grant him the recognition he deserves."

Former President Barack Obama and former first lady Michelle Obama's production company will release a feature film on Rustin's life and career in November, something all who walk the block of West 130th Street can now remember.

"We have to preserve the history so it's here for future generations to see," said state Sen. Cordell Cleare (D-Harlem), "so it can be an inspiration for others who have to carry the mantle, to continue the fight."

The plaque will be installed after the Housing Preservation and Development team inspects the facade and picks the perfect place of prominence for passersby to admire.

Have a story idea or tip in Harlem? Email Jessi by CLICKING HERE.

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The man who opened fire in a Dollar General store in Jacksonville, Florida, on Saturday targeted Black people because of their race, local police said. Using a rifle with a swastika drawn on it, he killed three people, deliberately targeting Black patrons, according to local authorities.

He hated Blacks, and I think he hated just about everyone that wasnt White, Jacksonville Sheriff T.K. Waters told CNN. He made that very clear.

The events that unfolded in Jacksonville were tragic, but hardly unique. In recent years, other racist shootings left people dead in Allen and El Paso, Texas; and in Buffalo, New York. Hate crimes also expand far beyond those headlines.

A leading group of experts, in a new study provided exclusively to USA TODAY, has found the number of hate crimes reported to police in 42 major U.S. cities rose 10% last year from the year before.

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And in just the countrys largest 10 cities, the number of reported hate crimes rose even more  22% from 2021 to 2022, making last year the second consecutive year they hit a record high.

What constitutes a hate crime varies by locale; it includes murder, but also offenses such as assault and stalking. In general, a hate crime is determined by the way a perpetrator targets a specific kind of victim.

Last year, as has been the case every year since the count began, most hate-crime victims were Black, according to the Center for the Study of Hate and Extremism at California State University-San Bernardino, which collects and analyzes official state and municipal hate crime data sets.

Jacqui Burns holds up a sign Monday, Aug. 28, 2023 at James Weldon Johnson Park in downtown Jacksonville, Fla. In light of the recent shooting at the Dollar General, that left three African-American individuals dead, hundreds came out to rally against white supremacy.

Brian Levin, professor emeritus at the center, who has been helping collate hate crime data across the country since 1986, said while the number of crimes has dipped somewhat so far this year, hes concerned about the presidential election season, which has historically brought with it elevated levels of hate crime.

We really believe that this is the eye of the storm, Levin said. We consistently see that election years are not only elevated, but we have hundreds and hundreds of more hate crimes during those times.

While the centers new data tracks with national trends shown in federal crime statistics, its both more current and likely to be more accurate. National crime data from the FBI has only been compiled through 2021, and is notoriously inconsistent. Police agencies arent required to participate in the tally, and often dont.

Jacksonville, for example  the scene of Saturdays racist shooting  reported 11 hate crimes to the state of Florida in 2021. But it didn't report them to the FBI.

Hate crimes: In shooting over store's Pride flag, predictions of violence again become reality

Crime reporting at historic levels

The Cal State San Bernardino study tallied 3,320 reported hate crimes in 2022 in 42 cities. Thats up from 3,026 in 2021.

While the overall numbers increased, that increase wasnt as large as the previous year. And the report notes that cities have also improved at reporting their hate crime data in recent years, which could explain some of the uptick.

The study mirrors the latest data from the FBI, which also releases an annual hate crime report.

Last year, the FBI reported that in 2021  the latest year for which data is available  the number of hate crimes nationwide jumped 31%. The bureau is expected to release its report for 2022 later this year.

But national hate crime data is notoriously flawed, which is part of the reason the center studies data from a limited list of cities.

What is a hate crime

Different states, counties and cities define hate crimes in different ways. Four states dont have any hate crime statute at all. Some states recognize crimes based on sexual orientation or political affiliation as hate crimes, while others dont.

A study of 271 hate crime statutes across the country published this year by researchers at Florida Atlantic University concluded the laws were vague and inconsistent.

The Cal State San Bernardino study tallies information from cities where hate crime data is most accurate and consistent, Levin said.

In practice, that means largely ignoring data collected in some places  such as Florida  because it is usually so inaccurate, he said.

When it comes to hate crime data, Florida is terribly flawed, Levin said. It's a real pain in the neck to get timely data.

Levin said the entire state of Florida reports about the same number of hate crimes as the city of Boston, which just isnt likely.

Protestors gather Monday, Aug. 28, 2023 at James Weldon Johnson Park in downtown Jacksonville, Fla. In light of the recent shooting at the Dollar General, that left three African-American individuals dead, hundreds came out to rally against white supremacy.

The latest data Levin has for the city of Jacksonville was 11 hate crimes reported in 2021, according to the state of Florida. Jacksonville isnt in the list of cities the center studies.

Other cities of similar sizes reported many more hate crimes, according to the centers study.

Michael Lieberman, senior policy counsel at the Southern Poverty Law Center, agreed that Floridas hate crime data is woefully inaccurate.

Florida cities are particularly bad, Lieberman said. Jacksonville has reported 30 hate crimes since 2013, and a city like Indianapolis  just a little bit smaller  reported 25 in 2021.

Meanwhile, Florida has also become ground zero for several hot-button political debates including LGBTQ rights and immigration, Lieberman said.

Other states that dont accurately report hate crimes include Arkansas, Virginia and Mississippi, Levin said.

Political rhetoric and mass shootings

Lieberman noted its not yet clear whether the Jacksonville gunman was influenced by political rhetoric.

But the SPLC and other organizations that study hate and extremism have long warned about the connections between angry political debate and resulting extremist violence.

Words matter, and words have consequences, Lieberman said. And I don't think we can ignore that.

Earlier this month, the SPLC and dozens of other organizations penned a letter to Congressional leaders urging them to tell their caucuses to refrain from using white supremacist and anti-immigrant rhetoric in campaigning and political action.

Again and again, our country has experienced hate violence inspired by this conspiratorial rhetoric. We know this because terrorists tell us this in their screeds, the letter reads. Driven by fears of replacement and invasion terrorists targeted the Latino community in El Paso, Texas, Black Americans in Buffalo, New York, and Jews in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and in Poway, California, among other communities.

A memorial for 23 victims killed at a Walmart in 2019 in El Paso, Texas.

The centers new data reflects how political discourse can drive hate crimes.

The COVID-19 pandemic, for example, with its corresponding anti-Asian political messaging from then-President Trump and others, saw a sharp increase in hate crimes against Asian-Americans and Pacific Islanders, Levin said. The past two years, as the far-right has galvanized its campaign against LGBTQ rights, have seen hate crimes swell against gender-nonconforming Americans.

Special report: A drag show, a protest and a line of guns. How the battle over one issue is tearing at America

In 2019, following months of anti-immigrant political hyperbole including repeated warnings from Trump of an invasion at the southern US border, a 21-year-old man drove 650 miles from Dallas to the border city of El Paso and shot and killed 23 people at a Walmart.

Thats why experts like Levin are so worried about the coming months. With a contentious presidential election and with the leading GOP candidate facing four criminal indictments, he and others are bracing for hate crime figures to soar.

What we are seeing is a conveyor belt of ticking young time-bombs, Levin said. We're entering a season where the dry kindling of radicalization is increased, because during election time folks tend to be inundated with rhetoric that is very over-the-top and tribalist.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Jacksonville shooting's larger trend: Hate crimes rise across US
The claim: Hawaii banned new construction except in cases of natural disaster; insurance denying fire claims for zoning infractions

An Aug. 17 Instagram post (direct link, archive link) makes a pair of claims about people losing their land in the aftermath of the Maui wildfires.

"So recently Hawaiian officials just passed a law  listen to this  that does not allow new development on Hawaiian land unless its a 'natural disaster,'" the man in a video says. "So then guess what happens, the laser beams  I mean, the natural disaster happens, which allows the new developers to come in and illegally buy the land at a discounted price."

Later in the video, the man says, "And now it's being reported ... the insurance companies are trying to get out of paying out the Hawaiians due to zoning infractions, which we know is a bunch of baloney."

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The post was liked more than 1,000 times in five days.

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Our rating: False

Hawaiian officials say there have been no reports of insurance claims being denied because of zoning infractions after the Maui fires. They also say there are no laws banning land sales outside of natural disasters.

No reports of insurance denials on zoning grounds

Five days after the video was posted, officials had heard no evidence of zoning-related insurance denials.

"As of this email, the Hawaii Insurance Division has received no reports of claim denials 'due to zoning infractions,'" William Nhieu, a spokesperson for the Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs, told USA TODAY on Aug. 22.

State Senate President Ronald Kouchi also said the claim of insurance denials was false, adding that insurance companies were still in the process of setting up claim centers days after the fires.

Fact check: False claim FEMA Deputy Administrator arrested in relation to Maui wildfires

Maui officials were already looking at revamping the islands zoning code, which has been largely unchanged since the 1960s. The wildfires killed at least 115 residents, and Maui County has sued utility Hawaiian Electric claiming its failure to shut off power despite warnings from the National Weather Service contributed to the disaster.

However, there have been no credible reports of zoning infractions being cited in insurance denials.

No ordinances blocking land development

Kouchi said he isn't aware of any state laws that ban development except in cases of natural disaster. There are no credible reports that such laws were in place.

Zoning matters are largely within the purview of Hawaiis counties, and Maui has been looking for ways to address a residential affordability crisis on the island, Kouchi said. Among the steps Maui County has taken in recent years was a moratorium on new resort development, to slow the growing number of visitors to the island.

Hawaiian officials warned developers against predatory land purchases after the fires. Gov. Josh Greens administration has even considered temporarily pausing land transactions in affected areas.

Fact check: False claim Maui fires intentionally set to turn island into '15-minute city'

Kouchi cautioned that limiting or denying landowners the right to sell property has potential legal barriers that are still being researched.

USA TODAY could not reach the social media user sharing the claim for comment.

Lead Stories also debunked the claim about insurance denials. Lead Stories and the Associated Press also debunked the claim about a land development ban.

Our fact-check sources:

Thank you for supporting our journalism. You can subscribe to our print edition, ad-free app or e-newspaper here.

Our fact-check work is supported in part by a grant from Facebook.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Post fabricates Maui development, fire insurance issues | Fact check
After devastating wildfires scorched the Hawaiian town of Lahaina this month, state and federal officials have been calling on Congress to approve billions of dollars in disaster relief to help support the island. But some lawmakers are worried that the money may get tied up in the looming government shutdown fight, which could delay the funding for disaster victims.

Shutting down the government is not an option, Rep. Jill Tokuda , a Democrat who represents the Maui area in Congress, tells TIME. This is about sending a message to every citizen in this country about how we take care of people in times of crisis and disaster. A government shutdown will slow down our recovery efforts.

The push to approve supplemental funding for Hawaii intensified on Tuesday when FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell announced that the agencys Disaster Relief Fund has a balance of just $3.4 billion, setting up the risk of it running out of money by September. She said that immediate needs funding would ensure that FEMA can continue to respond to disasters, but called on Congress to provide a long-term solution by passing $12 billion in additional funds for FEMA.

But funding for FEMA may get caught in the battle over budget talks, complicating the likelihood of final passage. For months, Congress has been at an impasse on budget talks as far-right members of the party have pressured GOP leaders to further slash funding levels for various government agencies and include conservative policy provisions to restrict abortion and LGBTQ rights in the appropriations package. With budget disagreements unresolved, time is running out before a government shutdown takes effect on Sept. 30. House lawmakers, returning on Sept. 12, will have just 12 work days to pass 11 annual appropriations bills. If they dont, billions of dollars of federal relief money for Hawaii in the wake of the largest natural disaster in its history could sit unspent as long as the government is shut down.

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To try to separate the relief funds from the potential shutdown, Tokuda says that Democrats are considering using a discharge petition to get money out the door to FEMAa process that enables a majority of the House to sidestep the speaker and committee chairs to push forward legislation on its own. But discharge petitions are a slow process: bills must sit in committee for 30 legislative days and then the petition needs to sit on a House calendar for seven legislative days before a vote can happen. Still, A discharge petition is definitely one of the ways that we can look to continue to move such aid forward and over to the Senate, Tokuda says. We have to consider every tool in our toolbox.

Thats not the only option to untangle Hawaii disaster relief from the spending package. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer last week announced that he would support passing a short-term bill to fund the government until December, giving lawmakers on both sides of the aisle more time to pass spending bills for the upcoming fiscal year. Some lawmakers are also eyeing the possibility of passing a stopgap funding bill, also known as a continuing resolution, to keep federal agencies including FEMA running. House Speaker Kevin McCarthy acknowledged the likelihood of a continuing resolution during a conference call with House Republicans Monday night, though some members of his party are opposed to the current proposal, which ties FEMA funding with funding for Ukraine. I thought it was a good thing that [McCarthy] recognized that we need a CR in September. Im supportive of that, Schumer said on Aug. 14. A CR until early December provides time for consideration of these bipartisan bills.

The fires that devastated Lahaina, a town of 13,000 people on the island of Maui, spread rapidly in mid-August after powerful winds from a hurricane moved through dry grasslands. 115 people have been confirmed dead, with hundreds more missing. According to Criswell, FEMA has already distributed more than $8.5 million to Maui, including $3.6 million for direct rental assistance. FEMA has encouraged survivors to register with the government to receive assistance, including an immediate payment of $700 to cover food and water. More than 1,000 federal officials were on the ground in the days following the fires, and close to 2,000 victims had been moved into hotel rooms on the island. But with several hundred people in the area still unaccounted for, federal officials are also looking to continue funding search and rescue operations.

Tokuda says the additional $12 billion in disaster relief funds that Congress is considering giving FEMA may not be enough for rebuilding critical infrastructure like housing, schools, and health care facilities in Hawaiiespecially as Hurricane Idalia heads towards Florida and other natural disasters are expected to take a slice of the funding. A potential government shutdown would slow down recovery efforts across the U.S., harming all communities impacted by hurricanes, tropical storms, and wildfires. A disaster does not stop because the government shuts down, Tokuda says. The aid must not stop flowing into our community.

Write to Nik Popli at nik.popli@time.com.
Kuwait's Public Authority for Housing Welfare (PAHW) announced on Monday that it has decided to award contracts for the construction and maintenance of its South Saad Al-Abdullah Housing Project to China Gezhouba Group.

A total of 10 companies submitted their bids, and the Chinese construction and engineering company offered the lowest price and met computational and technical requirements, the PAHW said in a press statement.

The project, which is located in Jahra Governorate, spans an area of approximately 6,400 hectares and consists of five residential areas with 24,508 houses, according to the Authority.

The project is worth 345 million Kuwait dinars ($1.12 billion), according to the Chinese company.

"The Kuwaiti government has entrusted the project to Gezhouba, and we will do our best to showcase the speed and quality of China's work to the Kuwaiti government and people, especially those waiting for their homes," said He Baisen, general manager of the Chinese company's branch in Kuwait.
An Mi-8 helicopter belonging to Russias Federal Security Service (FSB) crashed near Chelyabinsk on Aug. 29, killing three crew members, according to Russian authorities.

The crash took place next to the village of Krasnoye Pole in southwestern Russia, the regional governor Alexey Teksler reported.

There were no casualties among civilians and damage to residential buildings, according to Teksler.

The helicopter was on a training flight with four people on board, Russian state-run news agency TASS wrote, citing aviation services.

Read also: Ukraine bids farewell to legendary volunteer commander killed near Bakhmut

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According to eyewitnesses, before falling, the helicopter dangled strongly from side to side, and then went down like a stone, Russian media outlet 112 reported on Telegram.

First responders have put out the fire at the crash site, emergency services said, as cited by TASS.

On Aug. 23, a Russian pilot landed his Mi-8 helicopter at an airfield in Ukraine to give himself up to the authorities as part of a long-term Ukrainian operation, according to Ukrainska Pravda, citing high-rank sources in the intelligence.

The helicopter was supposed to transport parts for Russian Su-27 and Su-30 fighter jets but landed in Kharkiv Oblast, along with the parts it was supposed to deliver.

Read also: Three pilots who died in mid-air collision identified by name

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
Grenita Lathan, SPS Superintendent, Hal Higdon, chancellor of OTC, Clif Smart, president of MSU, and Max Buetow, president and CEO of CoxHealth sign an agreement to create the Alliance for Healthcare Education at Cox North on Tuesday, Aug. 29, 2023 to tackle workforce shortages of healthcare professionals in the Midwest.

The region's largest hospital system, university, community college and K-12 district announced Tuesday that they will partner to revolutionize the way health care professionals are trained in southwest Missouri.

Sitting side-by-side at Cox College, leaders from the four institutions  CoxHealth, Missouri State University, Ozarks Technical Community College and Springfield Public Schools  signed into creation the new Alliance for Healthcare Education.

Together, they aim to tackle the most pressing workforce shortages and become the largest producer of healthcare professionals in the Midwest.

"This is really an unprecedented collaboration because no one has done it at this scale," said Max Buetow, president and CEO of CoxHealth. "You've seen unique relationships between maybe a health system and a public school system, a health system and a technical community college but you haven't seen the linkages between every single one of those phases."

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The alliance plans to build a seamless pipeline to provide training  starting in high school  for those who want to enter the healthcare field or advance in their career.

Hal Higdon, chancellor of OTC, speaks during an announcement with leaders from MSU, SPS, and CoxHealth to create the Alliance for Healthcare Education at Cox North on Tuesday, Aug. 29, 2023 to tackle workforce shortages of healthcare professionals in the Midwest.

Hal Higdon, chancellor of OTC, said the alliance is the "right thing for the community" because it can increase how many nurses, EMTs, respiratory therapists and other health professionals are educated locally.

"If we can increase graduations across the board from the school district, the community college and the university by 1,000, we've affected the health of every citizen of southwest Missouri," he said.

A critical step in creating the alliance is absorbing the private Cox College, founded in 1907 as the Burge Deaconess Training School for Nurses.

If approved by the Higher Learning Commission, students currently enrolled at Cox College will be allowed to finish  a process expected to take two or three years  after which OTC and MSU would step in.

OTC would take over programs that require two years of instruction or less, MSU would take over four-year and graduate programs.

Clif Smart, president of MSU, speaks during an announcement with leaders from CoxHealth, SPS, and OTC to create the Alliance for Healthcare Education at Cox North on Tuesday, Aug. 29, 2023 to tackle workforce shortages of healthcare professionals in the Midwest.

Clif Smart, president of MSU said the alliance will have impact beyond the immediate region and said collaboration was the "special sauce" that sets the Springfield area apart.

Through the alliance, Smart said the institutions will be able to "more efficiently and less expensively" educate more healthcare workers.

He said the shortage of healthcare workers continues to increase. "This partnership will help turn that trend around by increasing the supply of workers in this critical field. At the same time, the lives of those going through these programs will be forever changed."

OTC and SPS will expand Middle College  an alternative program located on the OTC campus  to include a health care strand. The juniors and seniors selected for Middle College simultaneously complete their high school diploma while earning an associate degree.

The alliance calls for MSU, OTC and SPS to use the existing Cox College infrastructure, a 70,000-square-foot area at Cox North Hospital that includes classrooms and healthcare technology, equipment and laboratories.

"We're using a legacy hospital to teach the future of health care providers in this community," Buetow said. "And it is also a great way to continue to reinvigorate, reinvest in the north side of Springfield (along with) the adjacency to the other colleges, to Springfield Public Schools."

Demand for healthcare services up

MSU and OTC have reported significant growth in their healthcare programs in recent years, a trend that continued this fall.

Smart and Higdon said some of the programs have little or no room to expand  or double, in some cases  in their existing locations on campus.

Enrollment in MSU's McQueary College of Health and Human Services, the second largest on campus, was up from 4,280 a year ago to nearly 4,476 this fall.

Smart said enrollment in nursing jumped from 733 to 825 students in the same period.

Both said the ability to educate students inside the Cox North space, which Cox College renovated and expanded a few years ago, is a game-changer.

Smart credited Buetow for "reimaging how healthcare education could exist in Springfield."

MSU, SPS, OTC, and CoxHealth announced the creation of the Alliance for Healthcare Education at Cox North on Tuesday, Aug. 29, 2023 to tackle workforce shortages of healthcare professionals in the Midwest.

Andrew Hedgpeth, vice president of human resources at CoxHealth, said healthcare programs must grow in order to meet the demand.

"The challenges that we are facing are not unique to CoxHealth, they're not unique to the region. It's a national issue," Hedgepeth said.

Hedgepeth said CoxHealth has enough demand it could hire up to 1,000 positions to meet the existing need and to grow. "I feel confident that our counterparts in this community, the other health care providers are faced with very similar shortfalls in their operations."

Buetow said increased demand for health care services is exacerbated by the staffing shortages. "Boomers are aging so health care is growing at a fair clip and at the same time we also have people exiting. So it's both supply and demand."

'Reduce the overall cost' for students

Asked about the idea to absorb Cox College into the alliance, Buetow said one deciding factor was affordability.

Max Buetow, president and CEO of CoxHealth speaks during an announcement with leaders from MSU, SPS, and OTC to create the Alliance for Healthcare Education at Cox North on Tuesday, Aug. 29, 2023 to tackle workforce shortages of healthcare professionals in the Midwest.

For the 2023-24 year, general education and bachelor degree courses at Cox College start at $435 a credit hour and courses for graduate programs range from $620 to $800 a credit hour.

Undergraduate courses start at $279 a credit hour at MSU and from $128 to $149 per credit hour at OTC.

"Private education in the healthcare sector can be very expensive, and it was at Cox College and we found that we were not able to extend educational opportunities to as many people interested in careers we wanted to," Buetow said. "And so partnering with Missouri State, partnering with OTC and SPS, we found that we could provide a stronger set of opportunities to a broader audience."

He said the alliance also makes it easier for students to enter the field and go through more training to advance in their chosen field.

"We could create a seamless experience for individuals from high school all the way through the end of their career, to pursue meaningful work in an environment where they can take multiple different steps in their career over the course of time being incorporated into one of our wonderful health care institutions here locally."

Smart said "price point" is a major consideration for students. "Price alone should drive additional people into these programs."

Higdon said students in the alliance will have access to more financial aid, including the A+ Scholarship program and the Fast Track Workforce Incentive Grant.

"It almost makes too much sense," Higdon said. "To not do it would be a dereliction of duty on the part of the four entities."

Grenita Lathan, SPS Superintendent, speaks during an announcement with leaders from MSU, OTC, and CoxHealth to create the Alliance for Healthcare Education at Cox North on Tuesday, Aug. 29, 2023 to tackle workforce shortages of healthcare professionals in the Midwest.

SPS Superintendent Grenita Lathan said high school students will be able to seek a certified nursing assistant, or CNA, and an EMT credential as part of the expansion plans for Middle College.

She said the result will be more students graduating from high school with a credential and possibly an associate's degree.

Lathan noted other pluses: "Students having access to some of the best instructors in our region, access to the best equipment."

What are the next steps?

The alliance will be established as a 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation, owned by the four institutions. A governing board will be created made up of leaders from the four institutions, plus community members.

Smart and Higdon said the alliance may expand to include more higher education institutions, healthcare employers and K-12 districts.

"We plan to quickly grow the partnership to other healthcare and education partners after a pilot program next year," Smart said. "It is essential that we undertake this task."

Students at Ozarks Technical Community College in a surgical technician program.

Buetow said while CoxHealth is an inaugural partner, the goal is to have a positive impact on other employers from Mercy Springfield to Jordan Valley Community Health Center.

"The alliance is here to help solve the workforce needs of our entire community," he said.

He added the goal is to "not only help create a pipeline of talent that is coming through our public school systems" but to provide additional training to healthcare professionals working locally.

More: Missouri Hospital Association report: Turnover and vacancy rates decrease but remain high

The officials from CoxHealth, MSU, OTC and SPS said the details of the alliance are still being worked out, including how much each may need to invest in getting it off the ground.

Buetow said the investment has mostly been "sweat equity" at this point and that the Cox College space is sufficient to meet any need early on.

One option for the alliance is to seek grant funding at the state or national level to expand programs.

Max Buetow, president and CEO of CoxHealth signs an agreement with MSU, SPS, and OTC to create the Alliance for Healthcare Education at Cox North on Tuesday, Aug. 29, 2023 to tackle workforce shortages of healthcare professionals in the Midwest.

Higdon said the collaboration will make it easier to go to lawmakers in Jefferson City and Washington D.C. to "say we're united, we have a plan, it's well laid out and we're ready to go."

"Obviously, OTC, MSU, SPS and Cox are all major employers, major movers of our economy here," he said.

Smart said the partners anticipate that there would be interest in supporting "what could become the largest health care alliance" in the Midwest.

Lathan agreed it could give the alliance "more bargaining power" when seeking grants and other funding.

For this to move forward, the alliance will have to get permission from the Higher Learning Commission, a process that is expected to take at least a year.

"Our focus really goes on the accreditation side," Smart said.

"All of our programs are accredited. All the Cox College programs are accredited. We can't just decide to do this on our own."

Higdon said the commission will dictate the timeline for when this gets off the ground. He added many programs are also accredited by state and national boards that will also have to be consulted.

He said if successful, the alliance does not want to just replicate the programs offered at Cox College. "Our goal is to make it bigger than it is."

Claudette Riley covers education for the News-Leader. Email tips and story ideas to criley@news-leader.com.

This article originally appeared on Springfield News-Leader: CoxHealth, MSU, OTC, SPS form unprecedented alliance to train workers
Wealthy Americans ages 26 to 35 are moving to Florida, Texas, and New Jersey.

Austin, Jacksonville, and Denver are popular destinations for young workers making over $200,000.

New York and California are seeing major outflows of young high earners.

Wealthy, young Americans are flocking to Florida, Texas, and New Jersey  and away from New York and California  SmartAsset found in an analysis of IRS migration data from the 2021 tax year.

For Americans ages 26 to 35 making over $200,000 a year, cities including Miami; Austin, Texas; and Jersey City, New Jersey, are popular destinations.

Just 2% of Americans in this age group made over $200,000 a year, though this cohort comprised 16% of the demographic's income.

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These results were similar to those of SmartAsset's study of high-earning Americans overall who made over $200,000 a year, amounting to 8.68 million people. Florida and Texas  both of which don't charge income tax  also topped that list, with California and New York at the bottom. Idaho and Montana were not as high on the list for younger Americans.

For young high earners, Florida was the most popular destination, as the state had a net gain of nearly 2,200, bringing the number of high earners in this cohort to over 23,500. Texas had a similarly strong net gain, just over 1,900. This was in contrast to the over 5,000 net young high earners who left New York, which still had the highest count of young high earners of any state.

One of the more surprising states with a large net migration was New Jersey, which had a net gain of over 1,000  even though high earners in general left the state. Despite losses of nearly 2,700 high earners, New Jersey netted over 1,000 wealthy, young professionals. Many are moving to cities such as Jersey City and Hoboken, where rents for apartments have skyrocketed over the past few years.

Connecticut, which ranked sixth for net migration of young high earners, had a similar trend compared with all high earners.

New Jersey also has a high rate of high-earning young people, though Washington leads in this statistic when compared with both rich people overall in the state and the population as a whole. Over 13% of those making over $200,000 in Washington were between 26 and 35, and this value was 10% for California. Washington, DC, exceeded Washington state at 16%, even though it lost nearly 700 young, wealthy professionals.

Colorado, North Carolina, and Tennessee were also popular endpoints for this demographic.

SmartAsset's sixth annual study on where millennials were moving found cities such as Austin, Texas; Denver; Dallas; and Jacksonville, Florida, were attracting talent. On the flip side, New York City, Chicago, and Boston had outflows. Though Austin has become one of the least affordable US cities, partly because of steep housing costs, many top earners were moving into new apartments and suburban homes.

Are you a wealthy millennial or Gen Zer who relocated to one of these states? If so, share your story with this reporter at nsheidlower@insider.com.

Read the original article on Business Insider
Columbus High School is the second-best public high school in Georgia for the third straight year, according to a national ranking released Tuesday.

The U.S. News & World Reports 2023 Best High Schools list ranks Columbus High, a liberal arts magnet school, behind only Gwinnett School of Mathematics, Science and Technology in the state.

This years list ranks 17,680 public high schools out of nearly 25,000 reviewed, according to the magazine. The publication says it didnt analyze public high schools with fewer than 15 students in 12th grade or sufficient enrollment in other grades during the 2020-21 school year. No explanation for how many students would be sufficient is given in the methodology.

Compared to last year, the national ranking among the 13 ranked high schools in the Columbus area increased for six of them, decreased for four of them and were undisclosed for three of them because they still are ranked in the bottom 25%, which U.S. News doesnt disclose.

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Among local schools, Russell County had the largest increase in the national rankings, up by 1,970 spots to 8,081, and Smiths Station had the largest decrease, down by down by at least 3,445 spots, falling into the bottom 25%.

Here are the rankings for all local public high schools, listed by their state ranking, with their national ranking in parentheses, and how they compare to last years list:

Georgia public high school rankings

2. Columbus (75), stayed the same in state, up by 8 in nation.

87. Northside (3,837), stayed the same in state, up by 84 in nation.

168. Harris County (7,640), up by 10 in state, down by 425 in nation.

192. Shaw (8,393), up by 16 in state, up by 724 in nation.

197. Hardaway (8,648), down by 6 in state, down by 323 in nation.

242. Chattahoochee County (10,335), up by at least 69 in state, up by at least 3,048 in nation, but the exact figure is unclear because rankings for bottom 25% arent disclosed.

287. Carver (12,076), down by 1 in state, up by 212 in nation.

314-409. Jordan, Kendrick and Spencer (13,261-17,680) remained the same in state and nation.

Rainey-McCullers School of the Arts isnt ranked because its enrollment of 166 students in grades 9-12 during the 2020-21 school year wasnt enough to qualify, according to the metrics.

Alabama public high school rankings

120. Central-Phenix City (7,752), down by 26 in state, down by 655 in nation.

128. Russell County (8,081), up by 67 in state, up by 1,970 in nation.

237-359. Smiths Station (13,261-17,680), down by at least 49 in state, down by at least 3,445 in nation, but exact figure unclear because rankings for bottom 25% arent disclosed.

U.S. News & World Report high school rankings methodology

In coordination with North Carolina-based RTI International, a nonprofit social science research firm, U.S. News & World Report used six factors in it formula for the rankings:

College readiness (30%), measured by the proportion of 12 th -grades who took and earned a qualifying score on Advanced Placement or International Baccalaureate exams.

College curriculum breadth (10%), measured by the percentage of 12 th -graders who took and earned qualifying scores on multiple AP or IB exams.

State assessment proficiency (20%), measured by comparing the schools total scores on their states standardized tests in math, reading and science to other schools in their state.

State assessment performance (20%), measured by comparing the schools total scores on their states standardized tests in math, reading and science to what U.S. News predicted for that school based on its demographics.

Underserved student performance (10%), measured by assessing learning outcomes among Black, Hispanic and students from low-income families, based on their state standardize test scores compared to the average non-underserved students.

Graduation rate (10%), measured by the proportion of students entering ninth grade in the 2017-18 school year who graduated by 2021.
Its a bird! Its a plane! Its a coyote-wolf hybrid?

The answer is highly unlikely, wildlife experts say after Burr Ridge police warned residents of possible coywolf sightings last week in the southwest suburb. Theres no evidence that the hybrid scientists call the eastern coyote live in Illinois, according to the Urban Coyote Research Programs findings. Rather, western coyotes are dominant in the state.

Far more likely would be if someone were to have a wolfdog hybrid that got loose, because for some reason people feel compelled to have a wolfdog hybrid, which is a very, very dangerous animal, said Chris Anchor, a senior wildlife biologist at the Forest Preserve District of Cook County. You can imagine something with the power and skittishness of a wild wolf, and yet it would have some of the domesticated behaviors of a dog.

On Friday, the Police Department said it was investigating resident reports of potential coywolf sightings in neighborhoods near 83rd Street and County Line Road. The warning said the animal is about 55 pounds heavier than a typical coyote, with elongated legs, a more pronounced jaw, smaller ears and a bushier tail. It also said that the animal can resemble a German shepherd.

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To ensure your safety and that of your pets, we strongly advise against attempting to approach this animal, the warning said.

Deputy Chief Marc Loftus said the initial report came in from a resident who took his dog out at about 2 a.m. and saw what could have been a coywolf. Loftus said the man waved his arm to scare the animal away, but looked at his home surveillance system later and saw two animals come back later in the morning. Loftus said the department sent out the warning out of caution to protect other pets out at night.

As of Tuesday, Loftus said a couple other people have reported seeing something that resembles a coywolf. Loftus acknowledged that the department couldnt know if its a coywolf without capturing it and conducting genetic testing, but because the resident said it was larger than a typical coyote, they wanted to warn others just in case.

It was worth sharing just so people are aware that theres some animal out there that looks like a dog, looks like a coyote, Loftus said.

Anchor said its impossible to tell a coywolf, coydog or wolfdog hybrid apart by sight without genetic testing. Anchor helps lead the Urban Coyote Research Program, a study of coyotes in the Chicago metro area started in 2000.

In the 40 years that Ive been with the district, I have never handled a coydog or a coywolf or a dogwolf, Anchor said. Ive seen dog wolves that people had as pets in the area, but Ive never handled one.

The name coywolf is completely misleading, Anchor said. He said the name implies that one parent is a wolf and one parent is a coyote, but in reality eastern coyotes  the name scientists use  only have a small amount of wolf genes.

Anchor said coyotes were essentially wiped out in northern Illinois in 1900 because of agriculture, but in the late 1970s and early 1980s they reestablished themselves in the lower Great Lakes basin, which includes Chicagoland. When coyotes first showed up in the area, Anchor said, there were a limited number of mates, so they could have bred with dogs or wolves if they were available.

While dogs were common, Anchor said there were no wolves in the area.

There would not have been coywolves, Anchor said. There would have been a lack of wolves to breed with.

In fact, Anchor said theres so many coyotes in northern Illinois that they rarely breed with dogs, because theres no reason for them to breed to another species. One survey conducted by the Illinois Natural History Survey from 2013 through 2017 estimated that theres an average annual harvest of about 85,000 coyotes, representing just a fraction of the total coyote population.

But he said people can buy wolfdog hybrids, even though they are illegal to possess in Illinois. Anchor said these animals can be unsafe if they are in close contact with people, and that owners often have to get rid of them because they attack children or a neighbor.

According to the International Wolf Center, the behavior of hybrids is difficult to predict because of diversity of genetic composition. If they are kept in conditions that are inadequate to their mental and physical needs such as living in small cages or tied to chains, there is a safety risk for humans.

Gary Grasso, mayor of Burr Ridge, said his wife saw an unusual animal in their backyard that appeared a bit bigger with a bushier tail than a typical coyote about two weeks prior to the police warning going out. But he said he doesnt have any photographs so theres no way to confirm it was a coywolf, and they didnt report the sighting to the police.

We didnt even think about it until we got a notice, Grasso said. Somebody saw it in the southern part of the village further south from where we live. But again, we really cant verify that theres a coywolf or what it is.

Regardless of what animal Burr Ridge residents might have seen, Anchor recommends that people dont feed it. He said the normal social behaviors of canines, such as foxes and coyotes, break down when people feed them and they start looking at humans, particularly young children, as food.

Particularly during the breeding season and pupping season, which generally occurs between February and May, the coyotes get very territorial, Anchor said. And in many cases, they may look at your pets as interlopers into their territory and view them as a threat.

rjohnson@chicagotribune.com
The Silicon Valley billionaires seeking to scheme and bully their way into building a utopian new city 50 miles northeast of increasingly dystopian San Francisco face a barrier that voters established to stop a similar project four decades ago.

Back in 1982, San Francisco real estate developer Hiram Woo announced plans to establish Manzanita, a new city of 5,000 residents on an expanse of agricultural land in Solano County, California. He spoke of building 2,000 solar-powered homes surrounded by open space laced with walking and biking trails. He said there would be schools and shopping and recreation facilities.

But one thing Woo did not offer was a reason why Solano needed a city in addition to the seven that already existed in a county of ranchers and farmers, some of whom had been working the same land for generations.

Among the newer arrivals was Craig McNamara, son of former Defense Secretary Robert McNamara. He and his wife, Julie McNamara, had just purchased a walnut farm.

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[We] were young first-generation farmers and recognized that a development like Manzanita would not support itself in terms of the infrastructure and city services, he told The Daily Beast on Monday.

The McNamaras formed the Solano County Orderly Growth Committee and with their allies collected enough petition signatures to put a measure on the ballot restricting development to within the limits of the countys seven existing cities for at least 10 years. The measure, Proposition A, passed and was renewed in 1994 and then incorporated into the county plan. It is not due for revision until 2028.

The Former Whiz Kid Behind Tech Billionaires Plan to Build Utopian City

In the meantime, a mystery that seems to have had no equal in the history of real estate development began unfolding in 2017. An entity named Flannery Associates started purchasing thousands of agricultural acres in Solano, often for sums far exceeding the appraised value, for a total of around $800 million. The principals of the firm remained anonymous, and among the Solano residents who became increasingly concerned was Bill Berman, the current head of the Orderly Growth Committee.

Nobody knew who they were or what they were doing, Berman told The Daily Beast.

Until late last week, when The New York Times reported that the investors in Flannery Associates included a host of Silicon Valley billionaires who wanted to create a new city. A survey sent to residents of the Solano city of Fairfield indicated that the plan eclipses anything Woo contemplated decades before. One question asked participants if they would approve or disapprove of a new city with tens of thousands of new homes, a large solar energy farm, orchards with over a million new trees, and over 10,000 acres of new parks and open space.

Berman pledged that the Orderly Growth Committee will oppose the Fairfield project just as it had Manzanita in 1984.

Were going to work like hell to defeat it, he said.

Flannery Associates is already playing rough. The company has filed a federal suit against a group of Solano farmers, alleging that they violated the Sherman Antitrust Act by engaging in illegal price fixing when they discussed among themselves whether they should sell their land and for how much. The suit suggested that such supposed conduct was criminal and could result in a prison term. Court papers indicate that one defendant has settled; others have moved to have the case dismissed.

The Sherman Act was not intended to prevent local landowners from discussing with their neighbors negotiations with prospective purchasers or property prices, the farm owners say in court papers. Far from being an intended beneficiary of the Sherman Act, Flannery admits that it seeks monopolistic landholdings.

The motion added, Flannerys complaint is a square peg in the round hole of antitrust law.

Tech Billionaires Behind Secretive Plan for New California Metropolis

Fear of being sued has spread even to landowners who do not want to sell. Mayor Ronald Kott of Rio Vista told The Daily Beast that he knows one farmer who refused a Flannery Associates offer.

His basic premise is, This is my family homestead. Its been in my family for generations and I just dont want to give it up, Kott said. I dont think he was named in that lawsuit, but hes afraid that he might get named.

Kott concluded, Its kind of a bullying tactic on their part.

Another farmer who also refused an offer and also asked not to be named for fear of legal repercussions said that a Flannery emissary who was pressing for a sale seemed unable to grasp that land could have an emotional value that cannot be measured by money.

He looked at me like I was absolutely insane and then kept trying again, the farmer said.

Duane Kromm, a former member of the county Board of Supervisors, told The Daily Beast that some farm families are being torn apart between those who want to sell and those who do not. He said those being sued are distraught.

Theyre being pushed off land they farmed for generations because of these rich, arrogantLOMBARDS.

He explained that he was using an acronym that happens also to be the name of a street in San Francisco: Lots of Money But a Real Dickhead.

He said these Silicon Valley investors had swept in and purchased $800 million in land without consulting with local leaders or explaining where they will get the water for their new citybeyond just saying they will build a new aquifer. Water is presently allocated by a county board with representatives from the cities and the farmers.

Its done very collaboratively and theres not a drop left for being reallocated to somebody else that just parachutes in and says, Hey, I need water for, you know, 10 to 20,000 houses, he said. You cant build a community without water. 

Kromm mentioned another key element.

They make it sound like theyre gonna build some sort of a utopia, he said. Just money doesnt build Utopia. It takes people, it takes a lot of people, it takes a lot of time and a lot of joint effort and working together to make a strong community.

He spoke of that other rich guy who wanted to build Manzanita in the 1980s.

It was this kind of out-of-the-blue big investor coming in saying, I could build you a new town, he said. So the community rose up.

This time, he said, they would be rising up against people with what he terms massive, just unbelievable amounts of money. And Flannery Associates could move as early as next year to put an initiative on the ballot to revise the law.

Having spent $800 million already, to spend another $5 million or something on a campaign, thats chump change, Kromm said. This is an order-of-magnitude different kind of a challenge that I think we have in front of us.

Read more at The Daily Beast.

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The new year was 15 days old when Erie police were called to Rodger Young Park on the city's east side on a report of a shooting. Officers found a 21-year-old man dead of a gunshot wound to the chest.

Eight days later, city police found a man and a woman dead of gunshot wounds inside an East 28th Street residence in what authorities would rule as a murder-suicide.

More homicides would follow, with one in February and March, three in May, one in June, one in July and three so far in August.

The numbers, with only two-thirds of the year gone, already add up to a notable jump in homicides following a year in which the number of homicides was low.

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The 12 deaths ruled as homicides by the Erie County Coroner's Office so far this year  deaths that do not include people killed in traffic accidents in which law enforcement charged someone with homicide by vehicle  match the average number of homicides annually in Erie County over the past 10 years.

But they are more than double the number of homicides that occurred in the county in 2022, when five people were killed in Erie. Last year's figure was the lowest number of homicides in Erie County since 2008.

All of the deaths ruled as homicide so far this year have occurred in the city.

The homicide numbers could grow.

The Coroner's Office has not yet ruled on two other suspicious deaths that have occurred this year. One of those happened in late March in Summit Township, when Pennsylvania State Police investigators said suspected human remains of a missing man were found at his residence and additional investigation unearthed evidence they say indicate that a woman killed him at the residence and disposed of his body.

State police in June charged 35-year-old Marisa J. Rodriguez with first-degree murder in the death of 66-year-old Michael Maisner. Rodriguez was held for court on charges in the case following her preliminary hearing on Thursday.

In the other case the Coroner's Office has not ruled on, 43-year-old Andrea Newberry died days after she was found unresponsive in an East 17th Street apartment on May 1. Erie police charged 40-year-old Joseph L. Knight Jr. with aggravated assault and strangulation, accusing him of assaulting and choking Newberry. He is awaiting trial in the case.

The fatal shooting of a 21-year-old man at Rodger Young Park in Erie was the first of 12 homicides in the city so far this year. The number of killings is more than twice the number of homicides in Erie in all of 2022.

Homicides through the years

Annual homicides in Erie County have remained fairly consistent over the past 60-plus years until recently, according to available data provided by the Erie County Coroner's Office.

The county averaged eight homicides a year between 1960 and 2000, according to statistics previously released by Coroner Lyell Cook. The most deadly decade during that time was the 1970s, which averaged 11 homicides annually.

An average of eight homicides a year occurred during the 2000s, according to Cook's figures. The average then jumped to 12 per year between 2011 and 2020, a decade in which a record 21 homicides occurred in 2018. The previous high for homicides in a year, based on Coroner's Office statistics dating back to 1960, was 15 in 1975, 1976 and 2010.

Of note in the homicide figures from the past decade is that the number of homicides in 2012 recently increased from 12 to 13. Cook in July ruled the Sept. 16, 2012, fatal shooting of 20-year-old Lexie Castile a homicide after cold case investigators with the Erie Bureau of Police and the Pennsylvania State Police reviewed the case with Erie County forensic pathologist Eric Vey, M.D., and the Erie County District Attorney's Office.

Police on July 7 charged Castile's ex-fiance, 35-year-old Anthony D'Onofrio, in her death. He was recently brought back to Erie from Washington and is awaiting his preliminary hearing, which is scheduled for Sept. 21, according to online court records.

As of now, Erie County is averaging 10 homicides a year in the 2020s, with 14 occurring in 2021, five last year and 12 so far this year.

Cook said there is no way to pinpoint what might be driving the recent increase in homicides. Homicides, like other deaths including suicides and motor vehicle deaths, fluctuate from year to year, he said.

"Every one of these incidents is completely different than the one before it," said Cook, who has served as Erie County coroner since 2000 and has worked in the office since 1982.

Emergency responders rushed to the Quick Stop on West 18th Street in Erie on May 16, 2023, after a man was shot inside the store. The man later died and is one of 12 homicide victims in the city so far this year.

Ongoing gun violence, other factors

Erie police in July noted a significant rise in gun-related killings in the city as Police Chief Dan Spizarny and others released the city police bureau's mid-year crime report. At the time, there were seven fatal shootings in Erie compared to two during the same period in 2022.

The number of fatal shootings has since grown to 11.

Police and the Coroner's Office determined that four of the victims of fatal gunfire in Erie died by murder-suicide.

In addition to the January incident in which police believe a 37-year-old woman was shot before a 45-year-old man turned the gun on himself, authorities suspect a 79-year-old man shot his 62-year-old wife before killing himself at a residence in the 1400 block of East 28th Street on July 18; and believe a 24-year-old man killed his 23-year-old girlfriend and her 16-year-old brother before killing himself at a residence in the 1100 block of East 27th Street on Aug. 19.

The jump in gun-related killings in Erie come at a time when city police had seen the number of people shot and the number of shots-fired calls decrease, Spizarny said in July. Shots-fired calls were down nearly 50% between Jan. 1 and June 30 compared to the previous year, and two fewer people were shot in comparison with 2022's figures, the chief said.

The only homicide this year that did not involve a shooting was the death on Feb. 2 of 4-year-old Chance Mederios. According to the coroner's report, Chance died at UPMC Hamot after he was reportedly found unresponsive at his home in Girard.

According to the report, Chance had a medical history that included traumatic brain injury due to shaken baby syndrome, as well as other health matters. In October 2018, according to the report, Chance was in the care of a man when emergency responders were called to a Chestnut Street residence in Erie and found Chance with abnormal breathing. He was taken to UPMC Hamot and then transferred to Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC, where he received treatment due to shaken baby syndrome, according to the report.

Following Chance's death, the Coroner's Office ruled it a homicide due to complications of traumatic brain injury due to shaken baby syndrome, according to the report.

Erie police in December 2018 charged Maurice D. Rieger with felony aggravated assault related to the October 2018 incident. Rieger pleaded guilty to the charge in August 2019 and was later sentenced to seven and a half to 20 years in state prison.

Erie County District Attorney Elizabeth Hirz said Thursday that her office is still reviewing the case.

Contact Tim Hahn at thahn@timesnews.com. Follow him on Twitter @ETNhahn.

This article originally appeared on Erie Times-News: Homicides spike in Erie PA this year as shootings continue in the city
RICHMOND  Richmonds latest homicide victim is a resident of the Tri-City area.

In an email to The Progress-Index, Richmond Police said Isaiah Johnson, 21, of Hopewell, was shot late Monday afternoon in the 4300 block of Richmond Highway (U.S. Routes 1 and 301) in the citys southside.

A police spokesperson said authorities learned of the shooting while working a car-crash scene several blocks away on Richmond Highway. People involved in the crash told officers that Johnson had been shot and was being taken to a local hospital.

An ambulance crew went to the reported shooting scene and took Johnson to a nearby hospital where he later died.

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Police are waiting on the results of an autopsy before releasing any more details about the shooting.

Johnson is the 46th homicide victim in Richmond this year.

Anyone with information about this homicide is asked to contact Richmond Detective Michael Gouldman at (804) 646-3915 or anonymously through Crime Stoppers at (804) 780-1000. Info may also be shared through the P3Tips mobile app.

This article originally appeared on The Progress-Index: Hopewell man shot to death Monday in Richmond
Horry County Schools is implementing a virtual learning plan on Aug. 31 as district offices close ahead of Hurricane Idalias expected impact on the region.

District leaders have also canceled all athletic and extracurricular activities through Thursday, although on campus practices could still take place on campuses depending on the weather.

District spokeswoman Lisa Bourcier said school staff members will provide directions for students regarding Thursdays virtual programming.

Students unable to participate due to power outages, lack of internet service or other barriers will be able to make up the days coursework in the future. Officials are anticipating a return to in-person learning on Sept. 1.
Editor's note: In September 2022, the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) released the Global Innovation Index report, ranking Tokyo-Yokohama, Shenzhen-Hong Kong-Guangzhou, and Beijing as the top three global science and technology innovation clusters. In response to this, the Counsellor's Office of the Beijing Municipal People's Government and the Cloud River Urban Research Institute collaborated to conduct a comparative study titled "Research on the Science and Technology Innovation Performance of the Top Three Global Science and Technology Clusters." This article, serving as the second abstract of the report, focuses on the performance of Beijing-based companies, and offers policy recommendations, such as promoting the interaction and collaboration between enterprises and research institutions, establishing a global capital market for innovation and startup, and creating the largest international conference center in Asia.



The Global Innovation Index ranks global technology clusters solely based on two indicators: the number of WIPO's Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) patent applications and scientific publication counts. To provide a more comprehensive evaluation of technological innovation activities, this report broadens its indicators to include economic scale, population size, R&D investment, R&D intensity, as well as the quantity and quality of universities. Additionally, this article draws on a series of enterprise evaluation indicators from the "China Integrated City Index" compiled by Cloud River Urban Research Institute. It conducts a comparative analysis of unique enterprise resources and the interaction between research and industry in the three major science and technology clusters.

1. Shenzhen-Hong Kong-Guangzhou has most companies listed on main boards

Publicly listed companies are the most dynamic economic players, and the number of such companies can reflect the comprehensive strength of a city. On Nov.15, 2021, the Beijing Stock Exchange (BSE) was launched. The bourse is China's third major stock market after the Shanghai Stock Exchange (SSE) and the Shenzhen Stock Exchange (SZSE). The main board of a stock exchange generally serves as a financing market for larger, longer-established, and profitable enterprises.

Shenzhen-Hong Kong-Guangzhou and Tokyo-Yokohama have 1,596 and 1,517 companies listed on the main boards, respectively. In comparison, Beijing has only 447 such, only one-third of the number in the other two science and technology clusters.

2. Beijing has more Fortune 500 companies than Shenzhen-Hong Kong-Guangzhou

According to the 2022 Fortune Global 500 list, Beijing has 56 Fortune 500 companies, more than the other two clusters. The Shenzhen-Hong Kong-Guangzhou cluster has 20. These two clusters collectively account for half of China's total Fortune 500 companies (145 companies).

The Tokyo-Yokohama cluster has 36 Fortune 500 companies, making up 77% of Japan's total (47 companies).

The figures above show that among the three major clusters, Beijing has the fewest number of main board listed companies, but it has the largest number of Fortune 500 companies.

3. Tokyo-Yokohama has most listed innovation-driven companies

The Science and Technology Innovation Board of the Shanghai Stock Exchange (STAR Market), the Growth Enterprise Market (GEM) of the Shenzhen Stock Exchange, and the Mothers Market of the Tokyo Stock Exchange are all primarily financing platforms for innovative enterprises. The Tokyo-Yokohama cluster hosts the largest number of innovation-driven enterprises, with 383. The Shenzhen-Hong Kong-Guangzhou cluster comes second with 210, and Beijing has the fewest, with 169.

Figure. A comparison of three major science and technology clusters in terms of number of main board listed companies, number of innovation-driven listed companies, and number of Fortune 500 companies

4. Number of Beijing's unicorns 12 times that of Tokyo's

A unicorn is a privately held startup company with a valuation of $1 billion or more. The number of unicorns reflects a city's ability to attract venture capital. According to a survey by U.S. data provider CB Insights, in 2022, Beijing had 61 unicorns, while the Shenzhen-Hong Kong-Guangzhou cluster had 30. The two clusters together accounted for 54% of China's total unicorns (168).

Although the Tokyo-Yokohama cluster had only five unicorns, it represented 83% of Japan's total (6 companies).

From the above figures, it's evident that among the three major clusters, Beijing had the fewest number of innovation-driven companies listed on innovation board like the STAR Market, but it had most unicorn companies.

5. Beijing hosts many corporate headquarters, but lags behind in R&D expenditure

Beijing accommodates many headquarters of large enterprises, constituting a feature of the Chinese economic landscape. Beijing is home to the largest number of Fortune 500 companies in China and over half of headquarters of China's centrally-administered state-owned enterprises. However, the R&D investment by the corporate headquarters in Beijing is relatively low.

According to data from the Beijing Municipal Bureau of Statistics, in 2021, among Beijing's R&D expenditure, 43.2% was for enterprises, 43.6% for government-backed research institutions, and 11.1% for higher education institutions. At the national average level, 76.9% of R&D expenditure went to enterprises, 13.3% government-backed research institutions, and 7.8% higher education institutions. Compared to the national average, a bigger portion of Beijing's R&D expenditure was channeled to government-backed research institutions and higher education institutions, rather than enterprises.

According to the Global Innovation Index report, in 2021, 13 Chinese companies made their way into the top 50 in the international PCT patent applicant ranking. Among them, Shenzhen had 7 companies, whereas Beijing had only three. It's intriguing to note that despite Beijing's appeal to corporate headquarters, the Chinese capital is eclipsed by Shenzhen in the PCT applicant ranking.

Chinese technology giant Huawei has obtained its top position among Chinese companies in the global PCT applicant ranking for five consecutive years. Shenzhen-based companies such as Huawei, ZTE, DJI, and Tencent, are not only big R&D spenders, but also good at commercializing research outcomes. Driven by these enterprises, the Shenzhen-Hong Kong-Guangzhou cluster races ahead in practical science research activities and sees strong interactivity among companies, which significantly propels technological innovation in the region.

6. Drive R&D capabilities of corporate headquarters through policy incentives, facilitate collaboration between enterprises and research institutions

Japan's experience in promoting collaboration between industry, academia, and government is something that we should look into. The Japanese government takes policy-driven efforts to facilitate cooperation between industry, academia, and government in R&D in crucial sectors. Such efforts are to foster a collaborative R&D framework where businesses and research institutions work together synergistically. This approach not only helps to form a robust "national team" collectively but also allows research outcomes funded by the government to be shared with enterprises, thereby enhancing the overall strength and capabilities of Japanese companies in this field.

Let's take the development of hydrogen energy in Tokyo as an example. Tokyo has not only actively collaborated with the National Hydrogen Energy Research Base located in Fukushima Prefecture, but also jointly established the "Tokyo Hydrogen Promotion Group" with over 100 organizations including local district governments, universities, associations, and businesses in the city. This initiative aims to strengthen collaboration between industry, academia, and government. While promoting the widespread adoption of hydrogen energy, it also facilitates the cluster-based development of hydrogen-related enterprises.

We suggest that Beijing should mull over measures such as tax adjustments and R&D funding to enhance the exploitation of research outcomes and further drive the development of technological innovation. On the one hand, Beijing should encourage corporate headquarters located in Beijing to enhance their R&D capabilities through policy incentives. On the other hand, the city should promote collaboration and interaction between companies, research institutions, and universities.

7.Establish BSE and 'New Third Board' as global capital market for innovation and startup

Among the three major clusters, Beijing has the fewest number of main board-listed companies and innovation-driven listed companies. One of the reasons for this is that Beijing did not have a securities exchange market in the past, while Shenzhen, Hong Kong, and Tokyo all have stock exchanges. The Chinese old saying - "Proximity to water gives an earlier view of the moon" - underscores the significance of capital markets in facilitating enterprise development, and this role should not be underestimated.

Beijing's top ranking in the number of unicorn enterprises reflects its capacity to attract venture capital. The development of Beijing's capital market will provide even more opportunities for innovation-driven companies.

Since the establishment of the BSE over a year ago, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) have accounted for 93% of the companies listed on the bourse, while private enterprises have made up 92%. Over 80% of the listed companies are engaged in the strategic emerging industries and advanced manufacturing sectors. The BSE is emerging as a crucial driving force for innovative development in Beijing.

The National Equities Exchange and Quotations (NEEQ), also known as the "New Third Board," is positioned as a steppingstone for small and promising enterprises to the BSE. Many companies listed on the BSE originated from the NEEQ. By 2022, the NEEQ hosted trading of 6,580 companies with a combined market value of 2.1 trillion yuan, building up a sizable reservoir of companies poised to go public. There were 913 NEEQ-listed companies, 50% more than the combined total of Guangzhou, Shenzhen, and Hong Kong.

We recommend that Beijing should further emphasize the role of the capital market and embrace more inclusiveness and flexibility, and it should effectively utilize the resources from the NEEQ and respect the growth patterns of innovative SMEs. By doing so, the BSE can be developed into the premier financing market for SMEs.

Moreover, Beijing should foster an ecosystem around the BSE consisting of venture capital firms, securities companies, law firms, and other entities dedicated to nurturing the growth of SMEs. This ecosystem will create a high-quality professional service environment, better equipped to support the development and innovation of SMEs.

The BSE can be a complement to stock markets in Shanghai, Shenzhen, and Hong Kong. Positioned to serve innovative SMEs, the BSE can act as a platform to address their financial woes.

We also suggest that Beijing should consider including countries and regions along the Belt and Road route into its capital market and professional services as soon as possible. This will help establish Beijing as an international platform for the development of SMEs.

8. Build largest international conference center in Asia by further opening up

The exchange-based economy, epitomized by the IT industry, has been a potent engine for the innovation and development of cities. Currently, among the top 10 global companies by market value, seven are IT enterprises.

According to the IT industry's strength ranking in the China Integrated City Index compiled by Cloud River Urban Research Institute, the top 10 cities are Beijing, Shanghai, Shenzhen, Hangzhou, Guangzhou, Chengdu, Nanjing, Chongqing, Fuzhou, and Wuhan.

Ahead of the pack in the IT sector, Beijing accommodates 19% of the national IT workforce, 28.7% of IT companies listed on the main board, 26.4% of IT companies listed on the SME board, and 26.4% of IT companies listed on the GEM.

This report, based on the China Integrated City Index, conducts separate correlation analyses of the manufacturing industry's strength, IT industry's strength, and various elements of cities such as transportation hubs, opening up and communication, and leading power. The findings reveal that in terms of urban transportation hubs, the development of the manufacturing industry emphasizes the conditions of container ports, while the growth of the IT industry relies on international airports. Regarding opening up and communication in cities, the development of the manufacturing industry is closely linked to the import and export of goods, whereas the development of the IT industry is linked to international conferences. In terms of a city's strength, the highest correlation with the IT industry's development is found in the restaurant and hotel industry, whereas the correlation coefficient between the manufacturing industry and the restaurant and hotel industry is significantly lower. Moreover, in comparison to the manufacturing industry, the strength of the IT industry exhibits notably higher correlations with higher education and medical care industries.

From this perspective, it's evident that the manufacturing industry places relatively lower demands on education levels and urban services. On the contrary, the IT industry, which represents the exchange-based economy, has higher requirements for these aspects and is closely related to international airports and international conferences, in which the advantage of metropolises in developing the IT industry constitutes.

Based on the analysis above, we suggest giving full play to the advantage of the density of corporate headquarters and the sheer number of universities and research institutions in Beijing. This will promote and guide the exchange of high-caliber individuals and turn Beijing into the biggest center of international conferences in Asia. We suggest using international conferences as driving force for the exchange-based economy, and facilitating the exchange of ideas, technological innovation, content creation, and the upgrade of business models, particularly in innovative sectors like IT. This will cement Beijing's effort to pursue opening up and innovative development through exchange-based communication and collaboration as an international metropolis.

(The article was written by the Counsellors' Office of the People's Government of Beijing Municipality, Cloud River Urban Research Institute)
Senate and House Republicans are girding themselves for an internal battle over President Bidens request for another $24 billion to continue funding the war and humanitarian assistance in Ukraine.

The GOPs divisions over the war were on full display at last weeks presidential debate.

Republicans with traditional national security views  former U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Nikki Haley, former Vice President Mike Pence and former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie  battled with Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis and Vivek Ramaswamy, who espoused an America-first view that is gaining traction among Trump-aligned Republicans

Polls show a majority of Republicans are skeptical of providing more aide to Ukraine, but Senate Republican sources say they expect a majority of Senate and House Republicans to ultimately support another Ukraine package  though it will encounter opposition from conservatives in both chambers.

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A nationwide poll of 1,279 adults conducted for CNN by SSRS, an independent research company, in July found that 55 percent of Americans and 71 percent of Republicans oppose Congress authorizing additional funding to support Ukraine.

Seventy House Republicans voted last month for an amendment sponsored by Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-Fla.) to cut off all security assistance to Ukraine. It failed by a vote of 70-358.

The vote, however, showed that Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) will have to rely on Democrats to pass any bill to keep weapons and economic aid flowing to Ukraine.

And McCarthy is certain to come under pressure from conservatives in his conference to demand spending concessions to offset the cost of a Ukraine supplemental spending bill after he declared in June that more money from Ukraine above the budget caps he and President Biden set for 2024 is not going anywhere.

Rep. Ronny Jackson (R-Texas) said last week that a threat to McCarthys Speakership is inevitable if he ignores conservatives demands for spending cuts and other reforms.

If we continue to rely on the Democrats to pass important legislation out of the House, its going to be a real problem for leadership, he warned on Steve Bannons War Room.

Biden this month asked lawmakers to provide $40 billion altogether in emergency spending to fund the war in Ukraine and provide federal disaster funds to repair damage caused by fires and storms, and to increase security at the Southern border.

Senate Republican aides say the timing of the package is highly uncertain given the opposition from House conservatives and questions about whether McCarthy will try to rely on Democrats to pass the emergency bill.

The Senate would have to go first on something like this because McCarthys in a really tough spot. He cant put forth a Ukraine funding resolution with Democrat votes or hes putting his Speakership in grave danger, because in the House Republican caucus theres not as much support for un-offset Ukraine spending as there is in the Senate, said Brian Darling, a GOP strategist and former Senate aide.

The divisions within the Republican Party over sending billions of more military and humanitarian assistance were laid bare at the Republican presidential debate in Milwaukee, where Ramaswamy called continued U.S. support for the war disastrous, and DeSantis argued that additional military and economic aid should be contingent on European allies spending more on the effort.

Those same divisions exist among Republican senators and House members.

Vivek Ramaswamy was saying what most Republicans think. His view that there needs to a check on Ukraine funding, it cant be a blank check. I think most Republicans agree with him on that, Darling said.

On Capitol Hill there are deep divisions in the caucus on how to treat the Ukraine funding measure, he added.

Ramaswamy argued the same military resources should be used to stop the invasion of migrants across the Southern border and declared we are driving Russia further into Chinas hands.

Attaching Ukraine funding and emergency disaster assistance to a stopgap government funding measure that needs to pass by Sept. 30 is an option, but members of the House Freedom Caucus signaled last week that would face a tough fight in the lower chamber.

The supplemental could maybe hitch a ride on the [continuing resolution], and its something thats very dicey. The reason why its dicey is [it] divides both parties, said James Wallner, a former senior Senate Republican aide, who also noted that Democratic progressives are also leery about the nations open-ended commitment to the war.

House conservatives say they will oppose any continuing resolution to fund the government that continues Democrats bloated COVID-era spending and called on congressional leaders to lower the top-line defense and nondefense number to $1.471 trillion  below the total spending cap Biden and McCarthy agreed to for fiscal 2024.

They also pledged to oppose any blank check for Ukraine in any supplemental appropriations bill.

This raises the prospect that McCarthy will be pressured to insist that any new money for Ukraine fit under the discretionary spending caps he agreed to in May, a departure from the traditional practice of not counting emergency spending against annual budget caps.

Senate Democrats and many Senate Republicans, however, have no interest in cutting defense and nondefense programs beyond what the Senate and House agreed to when it voted to raise the debt limit in June.

Sen. Debbie Stabenow (D-Mich.), the chairwoman of the Senate Agriculture Committee, for example, says she considers the negotiations over attaching stricter work requirements to federal food assistance settled by the debt limit deal and closed for further discussion this year.

Defense hawks in the Senate Republican conference demanded that Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) pledge on the Senate floor in June that the defense spending cap in the debt limit deal wouldnt prevent the Senate from passing supplemental spending legislation to provide more money to the Defense Department or respond to a national emergency.

Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.), one of the strongest Republican proponents of supporting the war in Ukraine, pointed out at an event in Kentucky earlier this month that most of the money that we spend related to Ukraine is actually spent in the U.S., replenishing weapons, more modern weapons.

A Senate Republican aide predicted that ultimately there will be enough Republican support in both chambers to pass another major bill to support Ukraine and cited the strong arguments Haley, Pence and Christie made in favor of stopping Russian aggression before it reaches European allies.

A lot of the candidates fought back against the idea of not supporting Ukraine. Differences remain, but I think most Republicans support the idea of helping the Ukrainians, the source said.

Haley, Pence and Christie warned of serious national security consequences if the United States walks away from the conflict in Ukraine.

Vivek, if we do the giveaway that you want to give Putin to give him his land, its not going to be too long before he rolls across a NATO border, Pence sternly warned his rival.

Frankly, our men and women of our armed forces are going to have to go and fight him. I want to let the Ukrainians fight and drive the Russians out, he declared.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
The Department of Children and Families announced Tuesday that it is releasing Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits early due to Hurricane Idalia.

Funds for those who would normally receive their September SNAP benefit between the 1st and 14th of the month, funds will be available starting on Tuesday.

Officials said eligible recipients will have the benefits automatically added to their EBT card, and there is no need for recipients to apply for the early release of benefits.

LIVE UPDATES: Floridians make final preparations as Hurricane Idalia closes in on state

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We know how helpful the early release of food assistance benefits can be for our SNAP recipients in purchasing non-perishable items in preparing for the storm or in replenishing food losses after the storm, said Secretary Shevaun Harris. If you are in the path of this storm, it is important to finalize your preparations. The Department will do all that it can to support those impacted by this storm.

SNAP recipients in the following counties will receive their benefits early:

Photos: Florida braces for Hurricane Idalia

Alachua, Baker, Bay, Bradford, Brevard, Calhoun, Charlotte, Citrus, Clay, Collier, Columbia, DeSoto, Dixie, Duval, Flagler, Franklin, Gadsden, Gilchrist, Gulf, Hamilton, Hardee, Hernando, Hillsborough, Jefferson, Lafayette, Lake, Lee, Leon, Levy, Liberty, Madison, Manatee, Marion, Nassau, Osceola, Orange, Pasco, Pinellas, Polk, Putnam, Sarasota, Seminole, St. Johns, Sumter, Suwannee, Taylor, Union, Volusia, and Wakulla counties.

Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live.
Hurricane Idalia formed Tuesday morning as it entered the Gulf of Mexico where the forecast predicts it will grow into a major Category 3 hurricane before striking Floridas Gulf Coast on Wednesday, according to the National Hurricane Center.

In its 5 a.m. advisory, the NHC said the center of Hurricane Idalia had maximum sustained winds of 75 mph and higher gusts located about 370 miles south-southwest of Tampa moving north at 14 mph. Its hurricane-force winds extend out 15 miles and tropical-storm-force winds extend out 160 miles.

Rapid intensification is likely through landfall, and Idalia is forecast to become an extremely dangerous major hurricane before landfall on Wednesday, said NHC senior hurricane specialist Eric Blake.

Its projected path has the center making landfall in Floridas Big Bend part of the Gulf Coast and heading inland between Gainesville and Tallahassee. Forecasters predict it will reach peak sustained winds of 120 mph with gusts up to 150 mph and storm surge that could top 12 feet.

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This is going to be a major hurricane, said Gov. Ron DeSantis from the state Emergency Operations Center in Tallahassee late Monday. Its likely to continue strengthening all the way until impact and it could have catastrophic storm surge in your area.

DeSantis on Monday expanded his executive order declaring a state of emergency to 46 counties, up from 33 on Saturday. In Central Florida, it now includes Seminole, Lake and Volusia counties, but not Orange or Osceola.

A hurricane warning is in effect along the Florida coast from the middle of Longboat Key north to Indian Pass near Apalachicola that includes Tampa Bay as well as for the Cuban province of Pinar del Rio. A tropical storm warning is in effect for the Dry Tortugas and on Floridas Gulf Coast from Chokoloskee north to Longboat Key as well as west of Indian Pass to Mexico Beach on the Panhandle. Tropical storm warnings also remain in effect for Cubas Isle of Youth and Floridas east coast from Sebastian Inlet north to Altamaha Sound, Georgia.

A hurricane watch runs on Floridas Gulf Coast from Englewood to Longboat Key while a tropical storm watch is in effect for the lower Florida Keys west of the Seven Mile Bridge and on on the Southeast U.S. coast from Altamaha Sound north to South Santee River, South Carolina.

A storm surge warning is in effect for Floridas Gulf Coast from Englewood north to Indian Pass including Tampa Bay with storm surge watches from Chokoloskee north to Englewood including Charlotte Harbor and on the Atlantic coast from the mouth of the St. Marys River to the South Santee River in South Carolina.

Storm surge was the driving force that led to the deadly effects of last years Hurricane Ian that made landfall in southwest Florida.

The NHC warned storm surge could hit from 8-12 feet between the Aucilla River near Tallahassee south to the Chassahowitzka River near Homosassa along Floridas Nature Coast. Surge could hit 6-9 feet south of Chassahowitzka to the Anclote River near Tarpon Springs and north of the Aucilla River to the Ochlockonee River in the Panhandle with lower surge threats in Tampa Bay, Southwest Florida and the Panhandle.

The storm is expected to move quickly over the state, but rainfall totals could still bring 4-8 inches with some areas with as much as 12 inches across ports of Floridas west coast and the Florida Panhandle as well as southeast Georgia and the eastern Carolinas that could lead to urban and flash flooding.

Though Metro Orlando is not predicted to bear the storms brunt, the signs of a coming storm were clear Monday. Local governments set up sand bag sites, grocery stores stacked bottled water and other supplies, school districts canceled after-school activities, and city and county officials urged residents to make preparations.

Sumter County is under a hurricane warning while Brevard, Lake, Orange, Osceola, Polk, Seminole and Volusia counties are all under a tropical storm warning.

The National Weather Service in Melbourne said parts of east Central Florida will see 2-3 inches of rain with some pockets hitting 4-5 inches, but also warning tornadoes could begin to form inland starting this afternoon with the threat continuing into Wednesday.

From mid afternoon into tonight, the frequency and strength of outer bands from Hurricane Idalia will increase, according to the NWS forecast. The timing of peak impacts will be during this period.

Tropical Storm Idalia: Central Florida braces for impacts, but likely to avoid direct hit

President Biden on Monday approved an emergency declaration and ordered federal assistance in responding to the storm. DeSantis had submitted a request for aid Sunday night to the White House.

DeSantis urged all Floridians to prepare for the storms dangers.

Weve got to stop focusing on the cone and look at all the areas that could be affected, DeSantis said, noting that forecasts for Hurricane Ian kept changing and shifting further southward in the days before the storm made landfall last year, devastating the Gulf Coast. You have time today and know what you need to do.

Florida Division of Emergency Management Director Kevin Guthrie said the storm surge and winds are one concern, but that effects can be far-reaching.

You will see isolated isolated tropical-storm-generated tornadoes. Locally damaging wind gusts will be possible with more organized outer rain bands that move across the Florida peninsula Tuesday and Wednesday, he said. When we saw that, again in Hurricane Ian, the very first incident we had was an EF-0 tornado in Palm Beach County. So that was way far away from landfall when that happened.

Already Monday, officials in Pasco and Pinellas counties on Floridas west coast issued evacuation orders for some residents, including those living in mobile homes and RVs or in low-lying and flood-prone areas, according to the Tampa Bay Times.

The counties under DeSantis emergency order are: Alachua, Baker, Bay, Bradford, Calhoun, Charlotte, Citrus, Clay, Collier, Columbia, DeSoto, Dixie, Duval, Flagler, Franklin, Gadsden, Gilchrist, Gulf, Hamilton, Hardee, Hernando, Hillsborough, Lake, Jefferson, Lafayette, Lee, Leon, Levy, Liberty, Madison, Manatee, Marion, Pasco, Pinellas, Polk, Putnam, Nassau, Sarasota, Seminole, St. Johns, Sumter, Suwannee, Taylor, Union, Volusia, and Wakulla counties.

DeSantis said the state was prepped for reaction once the storm hits including more than 400,000 gallons of fuel staged and ready to deploy plus the activation of eight urban search and rescue teams and all of the states 5,500 National Guardsmen.

In addition, he said the state has deployed 247 of Elon Musks SpaceX Starlink units to boost internet access to first responders in regions hit hardest by the storm.

We have another 529 staged in Central Florida. Those are ready to be deployed in impacted areas and to EMCs across the state as the need may arise, he said.

As of 6 p.m. Monday, 38 school districts have announced school closures over the next two days, along with 10 state colleges and six Florida universities. Tampa International Airport is closing midnight Monday and St. Pete Clearwater International Airport will close at 3 p.m. Tuesday, the governor said at the press conference.

In anticipation of Idalias arrival, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection has closed 65 state parks along the western portion of the states peninsula and in North Florida.

Those destinations vary from Caladesi Island State Park in Pinellas County to Big Shoals State Park Columbia, which is nearly in the projected path of the storm.

Also closed are Cedar Key Museum State Park in Levy County, Devils Millhopper Geological State Park in Alachua County and Rainbow Springs State Park in Marion County. Go to FloridaStateParks.org/StormUpdates for a full list of closures.

The Florida Department of Transportation is securing the massive construction project along the Howard Frankland Bridge between Tampa and St. Petersburg across Tampa Bay.

The St. Johns River Water Management District is preparing for the northern half of its 18-county jurisdiction to be in the path of Idalia as a category one hurricane, bringing high wind and moderate rainfall.

Central Floridas SunRail commuter rail service will be shut down beginning Tuesday in anticipation of stormy weather. The passenger train runs 61 miles from DeBary in Volusia County through Seminole and Orange counties and into Osceola County south of Kissimmee.

Suspending service is a lengthy task of securing gate arms at 126 road crossings and storing SunRail trains. Resuming passenger service also requires considerable effort, including inspection of track conditions.

Melissa Watson, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Melbourne, said weather conditions will start to deteriorate Tuesday and into Wednesday as Idalia gets closer to landfall.

Central Florida residents should start making hurricane preparations and secure loose items outside of their homes and prepare for possible local floods and the possibility of tornadoes, according to meteorologists.

Watson said Orlando should be prepared to see strong wind threats between 39 mph and 57 mph, and rain, up to five inches with the heavier bands of rainfall.

Exactly where the system goes, like the more eastward it shifts or the more westward it shifts, that will play a big factor into what our impacts will be here, she said. If it shifts eastward then those impacts will increase for east Central Florida.

Kevin Spear and Jeff Weiner of the Sentinel staff contributed to this report.
As Hurricane Idalia barrels across the Gulf of Mexico, the west coast of Florida is bracing for impact with widespread evacuations.

It could be the next hurricane to join 2022's Ian and 2017's Irma in the "terrible I's." Since 1954, more hurricane names starting with the letter I have been retired due to their widespread destruction than any other letter of the alphabet.

Hurricane name lists are repeated every six years, but the World Metrological Organization retires a name if "a storm is so deadly or costly that the future use of its name on a different storm would be inappropriate for obvious reasons of sensitivity," according to the National Hurricane Center.

A man carries a dog while walking through a flooded street in Batabano, Mayabeque province, Cuba on August 29, 2023, during the passage of tropical storm Idalia. Tropical Storm Idalia strengthened into a hurricane this Tuesday and forecasters are forecasting it to become "extremely dangerous" before making landfall on Wednesday in Florida, US. (Photo by YAMIL LAGE / AFP) (Photo by YAMIL LAGE/AFP via Getty Images)

Here are all 14 hurricanes starting with the letter I that have been retired:

Hurricane Ian

Hurricane Ida

Hurricane Iota

The Category 4 Hurricane had only just cooled off from a Category 5 hurricane when it made landfall in Nicaragua on Nov. 17, 2020.

Damage estimates are $1.4 billion, according to NOAA.

NOAA also estimated 67 direct deaths and 17 indirect deaths from the hurricane.

Iota was the strongest hurricane ever recorded so late in the year.

Hurricane Irma

Hurricane Ingrid

Hurricane Ingrid made landfall as a Category 1 storm in northeastern Mexico on Sept. 16, 2013.

Insured property damage from Ingrid was estimated to be $230 million, according to NOAA.

32 deaths were reported as a result of Ingrid, many from heavy rains and mudslides.

The same day, Tropical Storm Manuel hit Mexico's Pacific coast.

Hurricane Irene

Hurricane Irene made landfall in North Carolina as a Category 1 storm on August 27, 2011, according to NOAA.

The next day, it made landfall again near New York City, sending rare tropical storm conditions through the Northeast and New England.

44 people died in Hurricane Irene.

It caused an estimated $6.5 billion in damages.

Hurricane Igor

Hurricane Igor blew by Bermuda as a Category 1 hurricane before hitting Newfoundland on September 21, 2010.

Early estimates put the damage in Newfoundland at $200 million. Bermuda reported less than $500,000 in damages.

A National Hurricane Center report said a few people died from being swept away by strong waters.

Igor was the most damaging hurricane to hit Newfoundland in 75 years.

Hurricane Ike

After hitting several islands on the way from the Atlantic to the Gulf of Mexico, Hurricane Ike made landfall in Texas as a Category 2 hurricane on Sept. 13, 2008, according to the National Weather Service.

Total damage estimates in the U.S. were estimated at $29.52 billion.

Ike was responsible for 103 deaths across the U.S., Cuba and Hispaniola.

Cuba estimated an additional $3-$4 billion in damages.

Hurricane Ivan

The Category 3 hurricane made landfall near Gulf Shores, Ala. on Sept. 16, 2004, according to the National Weather Service.

Damage was estimated near $14 billion.

Eight deaths were reported in the Florida Panhandle.

At the time, it was considered the strongest, most destructive storm since 1926.

Hurricane Isabel

Hurricane Isabel was a Category 5 hurricane before downgrading to Category 2 ahead of its landfall in North Carolina on Sept. 18, 2003, according to a National Weather Service report.

Isabel caused $1.7 billion in damages.

The storm was responsible for 17 deaths.

At the time, it was the most significant hurricane to affect North Carolina and Virginia in nearly 50 years.

Hurricane Isadore

Hurricane Isadore had weakened to a tropical storm by time it made landfall in Louisiana on Sept. 26, 2002, according to the National Weather Service.

Damage in the U.S. was estimated at $330 million.

8 deaths occurred as a result of Isadore, direct and indirect.

Hurricane Inez

Hurricane Inez developed in the Atlantic moving towards the Gulf of Mexico between Sept. 21 - Oct. 11, 1966, archival records show. It hit Cuba, spun off a tornado in the Bahamas, and traveled directly over the Florida Keys.

Estimated death totals were approximately 1,000.

Hurricane Ione

Hurricane Ione made landfall in North Carolina as a "minimal hurricane" on September 19, 1955, according to the National Weather Service.

The storm caused more than $600 million in damage.

Ione killed seven people in North Carolina.

It was the fourth hurricane to make landfall in North Carolina within a year.

Hurricane Idalia tracker

Contributing: Jennifer Borresen, Carlie Procell, Doyle Rice, Dinah Voyles Pulver, Kyle Bagenstose, USA TODAY.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: 'I' named Hurricanes are often retired: Will Idalia be the latest?
Florida and other southeastern states are bracing for impact as Hurricane Idalia nears the coast between Tampa Bay and Panama City, with an expected landfall around Wednesday morning.

You can watch livestream coverage of the storm from USA TODAY at the embed at the top of the page or on USA TODAY's YouTube channel.

The storm is expected to be a major hurricane with "life-threatening storm surge and dangerous winds," according to the National Hurricane Center.

A hurricane warning has been issued for hundreds of miles of Florida's coastline as Idalia, with max winds of 130 mph. As of 5 a.m. Wednesday, the National Hurricane Center said the storm's center was forecast to reach the Big Bend coast of Florida this morning. After landfall, Idalia is expected to turn toward the northeast and east-northeast, moving near or along the coasts of Georgia, South Carolina and North Carolina later Wednesday and Thursday.

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Live updates: Florida braces for 'extremely dangerous' storm as Hurricane Idalia closes in

Live webcams that may be in Hurricane Idalia's path

Hurricane Idalia is moving into the Gulf of Mexico, forecast to hit Florida's west coast on Wednesday morning. According to the National Hurricane Center, life-threatening flooding, a massive storm surge and strong winds are expected along Florida's Gulf Coast.

The storm is expected to then travel north, hitting the Florida-Georgia border and along the coasts of Georgia, South Carolina and North Carolina.

Hurricane Idalia's path: Maps show powerful storm as it approaches Florida and Georgia

Some beaches and other areas have livestreams that may catch the impact of the storm as it moves through Florida. You can watch some of those livestreams here.

Sandestin, Florida

Sandestin is in Florida's panhandle along the Gulf of Mexico, located about 36 miles northwest of Panama City Beach.

Clearwater Beach, Florida

Clearwater Beach is located on the west-central coast along the Gulf of Mexico, around 25 miles west of Tampa.

Tampa, Florida

Tampa is along the Gulf of Mexico, and is projected to be directly in the path of Hurricane Idalia. It is about 23 miles north of St. Petersburg and 25 miles east of Clearwater Beach.

St. Petersburg, Florida

St. Petersburg is on Florida's west coast along the Gulf of Mexico and the Tampa Bay, around 23 miles west of Tampa.

St. Augustine, Florida

St. Augustine is along Florida's east coast on the Atlantic side, around 40 miles south of Jacksonville.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Hurricane Idalia livestreams: Watch webcams in Tampa, Clearwater, FL
Hurricane Idalia's path toward Florida's coast takes it through a steamy hot tub otherwise known as the Gulf of Mexico.

That's worrisome because hurricanes thrive on warm water. It fuels the heat and water vapor that make the storms stronger and capable of dumping more extreme rainfall. And unseasonably warm water temperatures have lingered in the Gulf for weeks, making it even hotter than normal.

In a worst-case scenario Tuesday, the tropical cyclone will be moving along the coast in water temperatures among the hottest on record in the Gulf as it spins toward landfall overnight or Wednesday morning.

The National Hurricane Center has warned for several days that Idalia was likely to rapidly intensify into a more dangerous storm with higher winds as it travels northward off Floridas west coast.

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The unusual warmth is among a series of marine heat waves covering nearly half the worlds oceans this summer. The heat is blamed on several factors, including the warming climate, which scientists say is contributing to more extreme weather events.

Tracking Idalia Maps show Hurricane Idalia's path as powerful storm approaches Florida and Georgia

How warm is the Gulf of Mexico?

Average temperatures in the eastern Gulf on Monday were more than 1.5 degrees above the long-term average for August.

In data from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the warmest individual measurement was 91.2 degrees in the Florida Keys. A reading of 89.6 degrees in Panama City was more than 4 degrees warmer than the August average.

Any water temperatures above 82 degrees can help sustain or intensify tropical cyclones, according to the National Aeronautic and Space Administration.

Sea surface temperatures in July were hotter than they had ever been in the satellite record for that time of year, said Derek Manzello, director of NOAAs Coral Reef Watch. The temperatures are causing coral bleaching and die-offs in the Florida Keys.

In mid-July, water temperatures in some of the bays off the South Florida coast reached as high as 101.1 degrees.

By mid-August, the Gulf was the hottest it's been at any point in any year on record by a wide margin, said Michael Lowry, a hurricane scientist with the ABC television affiliate in Miami and a veteran of the National Hurricane Center. Average sea surface temperatures topped 88 degrees for the first time, a full degree over the previous record and more than 2.5 degrees above the 1991-2020 average, Lowry posted on X, formerly Twitter.

It's not just the Gulf. Globally, the world's oceans were hotter in July 2023 than in any month dating back to 1850, the fourth consecutive month global ocean temperatures were at a record high, NOAA said.

For every 1.8 degrees of warming, a 7% increase is expected in hurricane rainfall rates. A study by researchers at Stony Brook University last year concluded that without climate change, Hurricane Ian would have produced 10% less rainfall.

Visitors to the Southernmost Point buoy brave the waves for a few cell phone photos as Hurricane Idalia passes the Florida Keys some 175 miles to the west, on Tuesday, Aug. 29, 2023 in Key West, Fla. Much of Florida was in disaster mode on Tuesday with only hours to go before an onslaught from Idalia, forecast to strengthen rapidly into an extremely dangerous major hurricane before hitting the Gulf Coast on Wednesday.

Whats causing the warmth in the Gulf?

Warmer temperatures overall are responsible for the warm waters, although some scientists say they could be helped along this year by a little early influence from the El Nino in the Pacific Ocean.

July was the warmest month on record in 174 years, NOAA said. It was the 47th consecutive July and 533rd consecutive month with temperatures above the 20th-century average.

Surface waters in the Gulf of Mexico warmed at twice the rate of the global oceans from 1970 to 2020, warming at a rate of about 0.34 degrees per decade, according to a study published this year by the National Centers for Environmental Information and the Northern Gulf Institute. Warming occurs at all depths, but it is greatest in the uppermost 164 feet, the study found.

A ridge of high pressure over the nation this summer kept temperatures warm, dry and sunny for weeks over Texas, Louisiana and Florida. The heat index in Miami  what the temperature feels like  topped 100 degrees for more than 43 consecutive days, 11 days longer than the record, said Brian McNoldy, a senior research associate at the Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric and Earth Science at the University of Miami.

Scientists say the marine heat waves in the oceans this summer are the result of several factors coming together, including natural global ocean cycles, long-term climate change and perhaps some influence from El Nino in the Pacific Ocean. The explosion of the Hunga Tonga-Hunga Haapai volcano last year and a change in shipping emissions rules also may have some impact.

Have warm waters strengthened other tropical cyclones?

Yes. Warm waters in the Gulf helped Hurricane Michael to rapidly intensify, despite unfavorable atmospheric conditions, a group of scientists concluded in a paper led by Matthieu Le Henaff at the University of Miami. It became the first Category 5 hurricane to make landfall in the United States in more than 25 years. A Category 5 is the most intense storm on the Saffir-Simpson Scale, a measure of winds during a hurricane.

Hurricane Ian, which briefly reached Category 5 before making landfall in Florida on Sept. 27 last year, also got a boost from the Gulf's warm waters.

Connecting the dots between tropical cyclones and warm oceans

Water temperatures in the upper layers of the ocean are one of the main driving factors" for storm intensification, said Uchenna Chizaram Nwankwo, an oceanographer with the Gulf of Mexico Coastal Ocean Observing System.

Scientists with the ocean observing system are collaborating this summer with scientists from more than a half-dozen organizations to deploy autonomous vehicles in the Gulf, Caribbean and Atlantic to learn more about storms, gathering and transmitting ocean temperature data in near-real-time to give forecasters a better look at how storms develop.

A focus of the missions is to gather temperature data up to 656 feet deep in the Gulf of Mexico, said Nwankwo, who helps coordinate underwater glider missions in the Gulf.

Scientists say critical temperature information deployed by the gliders and autonomous drones will help them learn more about how warm water drives rapid intensification, like what they expect to see in Idalia.

Into the eye of a hurricane: How aircraft and drones penetrate monster storms

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Hurricane Idalia danger compounded by hot waters in Gulf of Mexico
During the Cold War, the U.S. became concerned with the question of how it could initiate the launch of intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBM) and nuclear-armed bomber strikes should its land-based and airborne command and control systems be destroyed during a nuclear attack. The AN/DRC-8 Emergency Rocket Communications System (ERCS) was the solution.

ERCS was essentially an autonomous nuclear launch code delivery system that would be projected into suborbital space via a rocket. Once there, the system would be able to transmit an Emergency Action Message for up to 30 minutes on any one of ten classified frequencies. Emergency Action Messages direct nuclear forces to initiate pre-planned major and limited attack options. As we've highlighted in the past:

"The AN/DRC-8 Emergency Rocket Communications System (ERCS)... consisted of a UHF signal repeater, capable of broadcasting an Emergency Action Message... with a launch code, on top of a rocket.

During a nuclear attack, the Air Force could fire rockets with the AN/DRC-8, if necessary, which would then fly very low in space across the missile fields broadcasting the launch code. If the operators in the missile alert facilities down below were dead or otherwise incapacitated, one would imagine that the backup system in place would have then received the code and carried out the launch sequence automatically. There still would have had to have been an active decision to employ the ERCS, to begin with."

Another ERCS on display, this one at Hill AFB. USAF

As well as ground-based nuclear command and control centers, from 1967 on, messages transmitted by ERCS could also have gone out to EC-135 Looking Glass airborne command post aircraft, and later E-6B Mercury doomsday planes, equipped with the Airborne Launch Control System (ALCS). ALCS can be used to send launch orders to missile control centers, or remotely trigger a launch under certain circumstances.

Diagram illustrating the launch phases for the ERCS. U.S. Air Force

Development of the ERCS began in 1961. On September 21 of that year, Strategic Air Command (SAC) issued a specific operational requirement for the system, which was won by Allied Signal Aerospace Communications Systems. This came amid heightened tensions between the U.S. and the Soviet Union, particularly over the threat of deploying nuclear weapons. Just a few years prior, in 1959, the Pentagon devised the Defense Condition (DEFCON) system as a way to raise military alert levels on a systematic, coordinated basis in anticipation of a nuclear attack.

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Initially the AN/DRC-8 payload was launched via Blue Scout Junior rockets, originally designed to support various scientific research efforts, although this was an interim system. The Blue Scout Junior version of ERCS, also known as Project 279, began to take shape in December 1961 when an initial configuration was finalized consisting of three Blue Scout Junior rockets with one-kilowatt transmitters stationed around Omaha, Nebraska.

Blue Scout Junior rocket. U.S. Air Force

The first successful test launch of the system took place at Vandenberg AFB, California, on May 31, 1962. In July of that year, Project 279 reached Initial Operating Capability (IOC) when three UHF signal repeaters were attached to three Blue Scout Junior rockets at sites in Wisner, West Point, and Tekamah, Nebraska.

In July of 1963, the Air Force declared the three Blue Scout Junior rocket launch sites around Nebraska operational as a stop-gap measure, while testing at Vandenberg AFB continued with ERCS until December 1963. Prior to this, however, SAC had already begun planning the move away from Blue Scout Junior rockets as a means of launching the ERCS system.

One of the more immediate issues with using the Blue Scout Juniors was their vulnerability. The systems were technically road-mobile, consisting of one trailer with the Blue Scout Junior missile on a launcher and another with the control system required to actually fire it. This would have allowed them to relocate from one location to another to be harder to target. However, they would always be employed from positions above ground and out in the open.

So, in June 1962, SAC proposed that six Minuteman missiles, benefiting from the protection of hardened silos, should be used alongside the Blue Scout Junior rockets to launch ERCS. By September 1962, SAC recommended that Program 279 be eliminated, with the full transfer of ERCS into Minuteman missiles.

The business end of the ERCS. The payload had two transmitters that sent launch code messages down to earth. Tdrss/Wikicommons

The first successful test launch of the system via a Minuteman missile  the Minuteman version of ERCS was known as Project 494L  came later on December 13, 1966, at Vandenberg AFB. On that date, a Minuteman II ICBM launched an ERCS into space, which transmitted its message successfully before re-entering the Earths atmosphere. In late 1967, ERCS became fully operational on six Minuteman II missiles at Whiteman Air Force Base.

Minuteman II ICBM launch. U.S. Air Force

The ERCS Minuteman II communications payload section measured approximately eight feet in length and 32.6 inches wide, and weighed around 875 pounds.

Diagram illustrating the communications payload configuration. U.S. Air Force

With the Minuteman version, all ERCS-capable Launch Control Centers were able to program with the system via ERCS Control-Monitor consoles. Pre-recorded messages could be stored in the payload for broadcast via cassettes.

There are some great images of the system, its console, and its nose cone which you can view here.

EC-135s in the air were also able to launch ERCS if required via ALCS, adding an additional layer of assurance on top of their ability to communicate with Minuteman ICBM sites directly. In April 1967, a modified EC-135 command post aircraft test launched an ERCS-configured Minuteman II ICBM out of Vandenberg AFB, California, via ALCS.

EC-135 command post aircraft, 1997. U.S. Air Force

Testing of ERCS continued at Vandenberg AFB into the 1970s. In 1974, for example, an ERCS was launched into space and Pacific Command (PACOM) was able to maintain clear reception of its message for 22 minutes. The last test was performed on October 26, 1977. By the mid-1980s, the ERCS system included up to 12 Minuteman II missiles of Whiteman's 351st Strategic Missile Wing, 510th Strategic Missile Squadron.

In 1991, following President George H. W. Bushs decision to end the standing nuclear alert due to the ending of the Cold War, the ERCS was deactivated. The 10 remaining ERCS at Whiteman were powered down and removed in late September and October 1991.

Location map of Emergency Rocket Communication System sorties at Whiteman AFB, Missouri, 1992. 351st Operations Group

From 1980 to 1990, the total number of ERCSs on alert ranged from eight to 10 in any given year, according to Air Force data.

Number of ERCS, and ICBMs, on alter from 1959-1990. U.S. Air Force

Of course, the U.S. was not the only country to develop a semi-autonomous system for delivering nuclear launch commands. Although the exact specifics of the system remain in question, the Soviets developed and fielded the Perimeter. This was a semi-automatic retaliatory system  a backup option in case the Soviet leadership was wiped out.

For many years, Perimeter was described as a so-called 'dead hand' system that could initiate the launch of nuclear-tipped ICBMs under certain circumstances without any human interaction whatsoever. From whats known now, as weve discussed previously, it actually appears to have had similarities to ERCS, involving rockets carrying a system to communicate launch command instructions to strategic missile forces down below. It also still required human input to initiate the sequence.

While ERCS is no longer functional, the U.S. still retains the ability to remotely send launch orders to control centers in charge of Minuteman III silos via the ALCS on the E-6B Mercury aircraft. The Air Force's three Missile Wings oversee 400 Minuteman IIIs in silos spread across Montana, Nebraska, and North Dakota. E-6Bs can also communicate with the Navy's Ohio class nuclear ballistic missile submarines. You can read more about that specific mission, which is called Take Charge and Move Out (TACAMO), here.

The U.S. military has been working towards upgrading and improving the capabilities of its nuclear command and control architecture in recent years. This is in part to help defend critical systems against various threats, including cyberattacks, but to also update the arsenal for better deterrence in the face of changing technologies. New strategic weapons like the LGM-35A Sentinel ICBM are on the horizon.

An artist's conception of a future LGM-35A Sentinel ICBM. Northrop Grumman

The future of the ALCS remote launch concept is not entirely clear at present. The U.S. Navy is looking to field a new C-130-based aircraft to take over the TACAMO mission from the E-6B fleet, which is set to be retired. However, those aircraft will not have ALCS or otherwise be configured to support the Air Force's strategic "Looking Glass" Airborne Command Post (ABNCP) mission. The Air Force has not yet elaborated on its plans for how it will continue to perform what has long been a no-fail mission.

Although the United States' ERCS thankfully never needed to be used operationally in what would likely have been Armageddon, it constituted a fascinating piece of engineering and stood as a unique solution to the darkest of communications and command and control challenges.

Contact the author: oliver@thewarzone.com, joe@thedrive.com
You are here: Business

The People's Bank of China, or the central bank, will conduct a central bank bills swap (CBS) operation on Tuesday to improve the liquidity of perpetual bonds.

The three-month CBS, valued at 5 billion yuan (about $695.88 million), is open to primary dealers for bidding at a fixed rate of 0.1 percent, the central bank said in a statement.

The CBS scheme allows dealers to swap the perpetual bonds they hold for central bank bills. Perpetual bonds are fixed-income securities with no maturity date and are not redeemable but pay a steady stream of interest in perpetuity.
The turmoil over next years presidential primary in Idaho grew more complex Monday, when Senate Republicans proposed a special legislative session to establish a May election.

Currently, Idaho law does not allow for a presidential primary, after a bill to move the election from March to May that legislators passed earlier this year inadvertently eliminated the election altogether. In the wake of the error, state Republican and Democratic parties separately voted to hold caucuses to select their presidential nominees.

The new proposal from Senate GOP leadership would allow the parties to move forward with those plans, but if the parties choose not to caucus, the state would hold a presidential primary election in May.

Senate Republicans said the proposal is meant to protect voter access, since a caucus significantly limits the number of citizens who can participate.

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We would prefer a primary, Assistant Senate Majority Leader Abby Lee, R-Fruitland, told the Idaho Statesman by phone. If the party decides (on) a caucus, then its the partys decision of a caucus, not the Legislature having left the session without any presidential primary on the books.

Idaho Republican Party resolute on March date

Previously, Idaho held its presidential primary in March and all other primary elections in May. This years House Bill 138 moved the presidential primary to May, an attempt to consolidate the primary elections, improve voter turnout and save taxpayers about $2.7 million in costs associated with a separate election.

But the bill neglected a mechanism allowing candidates to file for the election, which eliminated the presidential primary altogether. The Senate passed a trailer bill, Senate Bill 1186, that would have fixed the error, but the legislation failed in the House after Idaho GOP Chairwoman Dorothy Moon lobbied against it.

In June, the Republican State Central Committee endorsed a plan to hold a March caucus to select a presidential nominee if the Legislature doesnt reconvene by Oct. 1 and reestablish the March presidential primary. Republican National Committee rules dictate that changes to primary election dates must be finalized by Oct. 1.

Moon previously told the Statesman that a March selection process compels candidates to focus their time and resources on Idaho. On Tuesday, she said a special session would needlessly expend taxpayer resources because the state party will not budge on a March date.

The Idaho GOPs position remains resolute: The only conceivable scenario in which a presidential primary could take place is through the repeal of House Bill 138, thereby reinstating the presidential primary to March of 2024, Moon said in an emailed statement. This perspective is firmly embedded in the will of our party members as expressed through the (state central committees) decision-making process.

Sen. Scott Herndon, R-Sagle, on Tuesday publicized his own petition for a special session  separate from Senate Republican leaderships petition. Herndon proposed codifying a presidential primary election date of the second Tuesday in March.

Democrats prefer primary election

The Idaho Democratic Party also plans to caucus next year. But its leaders supported moving the election to May and have since called on lawmakers to restore the primary.

House Assistant Minority Leader Lauren Necochea, D-Boise, who also serves at the state party chairwoman, called the caucus plan an outdated and unwelcome outcome for voters.

Rather than heading to their normal polling location to cast a ballot, Idahoans will have to travel much further, arrive at a set time, and potentially sit through hours of deliberation, Necochea said in a June news release. For many voters  especially working people, the elderly, and families with young kids  these barriers will prevent them from having a say in the presidential nomination process.

Senate Republicans agreed that caucuses have poor turnout and could eliminate voting access for active-duty military members, out-of-state missionaries and seniors with limited mobility, among other groups.

There was a general consensus, across party lines, that we should consolidate these elections to a place where people were more likely to participate, Lee told the Statesman.

What would it take to call a special session?

A special session to address the presidential primary would be the first since Idaho voters last year gave lawmakers the ability to call themselves to the Idaho Capitol. Previously, only the governor could call an extraordinary session of the Legislature.

Last years constitutional amendment allowed lawmakers to call a special session if at least three in five members of both the House and Senate agree to meet. The amendment stipulated that lawmakers must circulate a petition that specifies the subjects theyll address in the special session. Lawmakers can only consider those issues when they meet.

If vote counts on the presidential primary issue during this years session are any indication, Senate Republican leaders wont have a problem whipping votes in their chamber. Roughly 70% of senators supported Senate Bill 1186 in a March vote.

The House would also have to support it, however, and the full body didnt vote on the trailer bill earlier this year. House Majority Leader Megan Blanksma, R-Hammett, told the Statesman on Tuesday that Senate Republicans have yet to provide House members with the petition.

I wouldnt have much comment as I have not seen it, Blanksma said by phone. And I dont know of any members that have seen it at this point.
Idalia strengthened to a hurricane Tuesday morning as it barreled toward Floridas Gulf coast with the potential to bring a life-threatening storm surge and hurricane-force winds in the state over the next two days, the National Hurricane Center forecasted.

The Hurricane Center said the storm could bring sustained winds of up to 120 mph as it moves toward the Sunshine State, which would make it a Category 3 hurricane. The forecasters said the center of Idalia is expected to move over the eastern Gulf of Mexico on Tuesday before reaching the Gulf coast of Florida on Wednesday.

Forecasters warned Idalia is expected to become an extremely dangerous major hurricane before making landfall on Wednesday.

You should be wrapping up your preparation for #TropicalStormIdalia tonight and Tues morning at the latest, the National Weather Service in Tampa Bay said Monday on X, formerly known as Twitter.

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Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis (R) declared a state of emergency ahead of the storm in 46 counties and has mobilized 1,100 National Guard members for rescue and recovery efforts. The governor also spoke with President Biden, who approved an emergency declaration for Florida in anticipation of the storm, freeing up additional federal resources for the state to respond to it.

Tampa International Airport and St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport said they would close Tuesday due to the storm. DeSantis also said the state Department of Transportation would waive tolls on highways in the Tampa area and the Big Bend starting at 4 a.m. Tuesday to lessen the burden on people who are in the path of the storm.

Storm surges and floods pose a large threat to the western coast of Florida, with evacuation notices having been issued for 21 counties. Eight of those counties have mandatory evacuation orders for some residents, including those who live in coastal areas, mobile homes and boats.

Levy County  north of Tampa  was one of the counties that ordered mandatory evacuations for its residents, warning that those living in Cedar Key must be off the island by Tuesday evening. The county said that help may not be able to reach those who need it after the storm surge comes in.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
President Joe Biden announced Tuesday hes putting a scheduled trip to Philadelphia on hold because of the impeding crisis Florida faces with Hurricane Idaliaa soon-t0-be extremely dangerous major hurricane thats forecasted to slam into the states gulf coast on Wednesday morning.

Mass evacuations were ordered early Tuesday as Idalia strengthened from a tropical storm into a Category 1 hurricane around 5 a.m. As it barrels across the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico, Idalia is forecast to dramatically increase in power to at least a Category 3.

The National Hurricane Center warned early Tuesday that Idalia is expected to intensify into an extremely dangerous major hurricane before landfall along the west coast or Big Bend region of Florida.

The Big Bend area is expected to be lashed by winds 120 mph winds and up to 12 feet of storm surgearound the same levels of surge seen last year in Florida as Hurricane Ian brought death and destruction as it swept through the state. Some models using the NHCs data suggest the historic Florida town of Cedar Key could be nearly wiped off the map.

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Hurricane Ian Leaves Trapped Florida Residents Pleading for Rescue as Death Toll Climbs

Forecasters havent ruled out a last-second shift in path for Idalia, however, reminding the entirety of Floridas gulf coast that it is at risk. Last summer, Hurricane Ian, a major hurricane, took a sharp turn to the east, walloping Southwest Florida instead of the Tampa Bay region as initially forecasted.

Ian killed 149 Floridians, largely because thousands in coastal communities didnt heed calls to evacuateor tried to do so too late.

A similar shift in path could be even more devastating should Idalia turn west and make landfall closer to Tampa Bay. The region, which has three times the population of Southwest Florida, is infamously the most vulnerable in the country to hurricanes. Its dense communities on the coast, hundreds of waterways, and no elevation combine to make it a worst-case scenario for a tropical system to strike.

Tampa Bay has evaded having a major storm making landfall for over a 100 years, largely thanks to luck and its location on Floridas west coast, experts, including Colorado State hurricane researcher Philip Klotzbach, told the Tampa Bay Times.

The regions vulnerability has been exposed by tropical storms in recent years, however. Weaker storms that have merely passed off the coast of Tampa Baylike Tropical Storm Eta did in 2020have caused significant flooding in Tampa and St. Petersburg, with several feet of storm surge inundating streets and homes.

Evacuations have been ordered in 22 counties while schools, airports, and theme parks have been shuttered before the arrival of the storm. With Idalia approaching, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis has warned residents to buckle up for power outages and advised those under evacuations to take it seriously and get to a safer area.

This storm is going to hit tomorrow morning, you will start seeing effects in parts of the state later today, DeSantis said at a Tuesday morning news conference. You still have time to finish your preparations but you have to do that now. He added that residents dont have to leave the state but they should get to higher ground.

DeSantis said the state is working with power companies and that 25,000 linemen had been staged in order to respond to potential blackouts. Some 5,500 National Guard members have been activated, while urban search and rescue teams have also been readied by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

The No. 1 killer in all of these storms is water, whether its the storm surge thats going to happen at the coast or the excessive rainfall that might happen inland that causes urban flash flooding, FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell told CNN Tuesday.

Idalia was about 210 miles south-southwest of Tampa at 5 p.m. on Tuesday, moving northward at about 14 mph, with forecasters expecting it to accelerate during its landfall on Wednesday. Its track is making it difficult to predict exactly where its center will arrive on land, with the populated areas of both Tallahassee and Tampa potentially in its path depending on the storms movements.

Regardless of where the storms eye makes landfall, nearly all of Florida will be drenched by Idalias far-reaching rain bands and tropical storm winds that span 160 miles from Idalias center. The states northeast Atlantic coast, including Jacksonville, was placed under tropical storm warnings on Tuesday despite not being in Idalias direct path.

Idalia has already pounded Cuba with torrential downpours, with some residents forced to flee their homes when as much as it dumped more than 4 inches of rain in some areas. Experts fear the storm will rapidly-intensify while passing over the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico, which are up to 2 degrees warmer than usual this summer, and will continue strengthening until it strikes the Florida coast.

President Joe Biden has approved an emergency declaration in Florida and has given assurances to DeSantis that the federal government will support the state as it rides out the storm.

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Article first published: Wednesday, Aug. 30, 2023, 5 a.m. ET

On Wednesday at 5 am, the National Hurricane Center issued an advisory stating that Idalia has become a Category 4 hurricane with sustained winds of 130 mph after intensifying from a Category 3 hurricane.

Category 4 Hurricane Idalia is 60 miles west of Cedar Key Florida and 90 miles south of Tallahassee Florida, with maximum sustained wind of 130 mph. Its moving 18 mph to the north-northeast.

"After landfall, Idalia is forecast to turn toward the northeast and east-northeast, moving near or along the coasts of Georgia, South Carolina, and North Carolina late today and Thursday." according to analysts. "While Idalia should weaken after landfall, it is likely to still be a hurricane while moving across southern Georgia, and near the coast of Georgia or southern South Carolina late today."

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YESTERDAY (Tuesday):

Yesterday, there were numerous changes: Idalia began as a Category 1 hurricane and a Category 2 hurricane but ultimately became a Category 3 hurricane with sustained winds of 120 miles per hour.

CHANGES WITH THIS ADVISORY:

A Hurricane Warning has been issued for the east coast of the United States from Altamaha Sound Georgia to Edisto Beach South Carolina.

A Storm Surge Warning has been issued from St. Catherine's Sound to South Santee River.

A Hurricane Watch has been issued from Edisto Beach South Carolina to South Santee River South Carolina.

A Tropical Storm Warning has been issued from North of Surf City North Carolina to the North Carolina/Virginia border, and Pamlico and Albemarle Sounds.

The Tropical Storm Warning for the west coast of Florida from Bonita Beach southward is discontinued.

SUMMARY OF WATCHES AND WARNINGS IN EFFECT:

A Storm Surge Warning is in effect for:

- Englewood northward to Indian Pass, including Tampa Bay

- St. Catherine's Sound to South Santee River

A Hurricane Warning is in effect for:

- Middle of Longboat Key northward to Indian Pass, including Tampa Bay

A Tropical Storm Warning is in effect for:

- Chokoloskee northward to the Middle of Longboat Key

- West of Indian Pass to Mexico Beach

- Sebastian Inlet Florida to Surf City North Carolina

A Storm Surge Watch is in effect for:

- Bonita Beach northward to Englewood, including Charlotte Harbour

- Mouth of the St. Mary's River to St. Catherine's Sound Georgia

- Beaufort Inlet to Drum Inlet North Carolina

- Neuse and Pamlico Rivers North Carolina

A Hurricane Watch is in effect for:

- Mouth of the St. Mary's River to Altamaha Sound

- Edisto Beach to South Santee River

A Hurricane Warning means that hurricane conditions are expected somewhere within the warning area. Preparations to protect life and property should be rushed to completion.

A Storm Surge Warning means there is a danger of life-threatening inundation, from rising water moving inland from the coastline, during the next 36 hours in the indicated locations. For a depiction of areas at risk, please see the National Weather Service Storm Surge Watch/Warning Graphic, available at hurricanes.gov. This is a life-threatening situation. Persons located within these areas should take all necessary actions to protect life and property from rising water and the potential for other dangerous conditions. Promptly follow evacuation and other instructions from local officials.

A Tropical Storm Warning means that tropical storm conditions are expected somewhere within the warning area.

A Storm Surge Watch means there is a possibility of life- threatening inundation, from rising water moving inland from the coastline, in the indicated locations during the next 48 hours. For a depiction of areas at risk, please see the National Weather Service Storm Surge Watch/Warning Graphic, available at hurricanes.gov.

A Hurricane Watch means that hurricane conditions are possible within the watch area.

Additional warnings could be required later today.

HAZARDS AFFECTING LAND:

STORM SURGE: The combination of storm surge and tide will cause normally dry areas near the coast to be flooded by rising waters moving inland from the shoreline. The water could reach the following heights above ground somewhere in the indicated areas if the peak surge occurs at the time of high tide... Wakulla/Jefferson County, FL to Yankeetown, FL...12-16 ft Ochlockonee River, FL to Wakulla/Jefferson County, FL...8-12 ft Yankeetown, FL to Chassahowitzka, FL...7-11 ft Chassahowitzka, FL to Anclote River, FL...6-9 ft Carrabelle, FL to Ochlockonee River, FL...5-8 ft Anclote River, FL to Middle of Longboat Key, FL...4-6 ft Tampa Bay...4-6 ft Indian Pass, FL to Carrabelle, FL...3-5 ft Middle of Longboat Key, FL to Englewood, FL...3-5 ft Saint Catherines Sound, GA to South Santee River, SC...3-5 ft Englewood, FL to Bonita Beach, FL...2-4 ft Beaufort Inlet, NC to Ocracoke Inlet, NC...2-4 ft Mouth of the St. Mary's River to Saint Catherines Sound, GA...2-4 ft Charlotte Harbor...2-4 ft Neuse and Bay Rivers...2-4 ft Pamlico and Pungo Rivers...2-4 ft Flagler/Volusia County Line, FL to Mouth of the St. Mary's River...1-3 ft Mexico Beach, FL to Indian Pass, FL...1-3 ft Bonita Beach, FL to East Cape Sable, FL...1-3 ft South Santee River, SC to Beaufort Inlet, NC...1-3 ft Ocracoke Inlet, NC to Duck, NC...1-3 ft The deepest water will occur along the immediate coast near and to the right of the center, where the surge will be accompanied by large and destructive waves. Surge-related flooding depends on the relative timing of the surge and the tidal cycle, and can vary greatly over short distances.

WIND: Hurricane conditions are expected within the hurricane warning area in Florida soon, with tropical storm conditions spreading northward and westward through this morning.

Tropical storm conditions will continue within the tropical storm warning area along the Florida Gulf and west coasts.

Hurricane conditions are expected in the Hurricane Warning area along the coasts of Georgia and South Carolina later today and tonight.

Hurricane conditions are possible in the Hurricane Watch area along the coasts of Georgia and South Carolina later today and tonight.

Tropical storm conditions are expected to begin later today in the warning area along the east coast of Florida, Georgia, and South Carolina, and spread into North Carolina tonight and Thursday.

RAINFALL: Idalia is expected to produce a swath of 4 to 8 inches of rainfall with isolated maxima up to 12 inches from the Florida Big Bend through central Georgia and South Carolina, and through eastern North Carolina into Thursday. These rainfall amounts will lead to areas of flash, urban, and moderate river flooding, with considerable impacts.

SURF: Swells generated by Idalia are affecting the southwestern coast of Florida and will spread northward and westward to the north-central Gulf coast through today. These swells are likely to cause life-threatening surf and rip current conditions.

TORNADOES: A few tornadoes are possible this morning across west-central and northern Florida into southeast Georgia, with the tornado risk shifting toward the coastal Carolinas this afternoon and tonight.

Source: National Hurricane Center

This article was generated by the Miami Herald Bot, artificial intelligence software that analyzes information from the National Hurricane Center and applies it to templates created by journalists in the newsroom. We are experimenting with this and other new ways of providing more useful content to our readers and subscribers. You can report errors or bugs to mcclatchybot@mcclatchy.com. Full hurricane coverage at miamiherald.com/news/weather/hurricane/
Its crunch time for Florida as it braces for Hurricane Idalias impact  a possibly catastrophic storm not seen in more than a century, Gov. Ron DeSantis said.

Forecasters now predict Idalia will make landfall on the states Big Bend region as an extremely dangerous Category 4.

If you are there when that hits, it is going to be very difficult to survive that, DeSantis said.

The latest National Hurricane Center forecast at 11 p.m. still had Idalia on track to make landfall in the Big Bend area on Wednesday morning as a dangerous major storm.

With sustained winds of 125 mph as of 4 a.m. Wednesday, Idalia is now a Category 3. Prime conditions will fast-track the storm to a Category 4 within the next 12 hours, forecaster say.

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Near its powerful core, sustained winds could hit 130 mph, a jump from earlier projections, and storm surge could reach up to 16 feet.

The flooding threat extended far beyond the cone of concern for high winds. From Apalachicola to the Florida Keys, much of the states west coast remained blanketed with storm surge and hurricane warnings, and officials warned that Idalias rain, tornadoes and surge will be felt far from the strike zone.

The densely populated Tampa Bay region, for instance, was facing a record 4 to 6 feet of surge. Forecasters also cautioned that the track could still shift.

Apart from flooding, most of Floridas Gulf Coast was put under a tornado watch until 6 a.m. Wednesday due to Idalia.

DeSantis urged Floridians to prepare for a major hurricane that will cause serious damage.

We are going to be hit by a major hurricane, he said in a Tuesday night news conference. The eye will arrive onshore sometime tomorrow morning most likely, and it is going to have major impacts, particular in Floridas Big Bend region.

He emphasized that a storm of this magnitude  bringing what officials are calling greatly concerning storm surge  hasnt made landfall in the Big Bend since the late 1800s.

At this point, there is growing certainty of a landfall in the Taylor, Dixie or Levy County region, which has largely been untested by a major storm. The Tallahassee office of the National Weather Service underlined that in a morning forecast discussion post.

To put this system into the historical context, there are NO major hurricanes in the historical data set going back to 1851 that have tracked into Apalachee Bay. None. Dont mess around with this, forecasters wrote.

Hurricane Idalia, currently a Category 2, was expected to keep strengthening to a Category 4 as it closed in on Floridas Big Bend.

Storm surge risk grows

Idalia is becoming increasingly organized as it approaches Floridas Big Bend area at a brisk pace, growing stronger as encounters low sheer and hot water conditions in the Gulf of Mexico.

In the 11 p.m. update, the hurricane center upped Idalias wind speed predictions for landfall due to this storm-friendly environment  calling for 130 mph maximum sustained winds when it comes ashore.

In these final hours before landfall, the hurricane is going over some of the warmest water in the Gulf where sea surface temperatures are nearly 90 degrees Fahrenheit.

Unfortunately #Idalia has yet to traverse the warmest waters in the Gulf of Mexico, which warm to 31-32C close to the Florida Gulf Coast. Map via @BMcNoldy. pic.twitter.com/PikG52C469  Philippe Papin (@pppapin) August 29, 2023

The forecast also moved its track a bit more west, just another of a series of nudges west over the past few days that closely follow other storm models.

Idalia also picked up the pace on Tuesday, from a leisurely 8 mph speed overnight up to 18 mph, as it sailed north into the Gulf of Mexico. Propelled by helpful steering winds, the storm was expected to remain fast as it rockets across the northern half of the state Wednesday and Thursday.

When Idalia comes ashore, it will bring destructive life-threatening winds, spreading inland across northern Florida. Forecasters are warning residents to be prepared for long-duration power outages.

The risk of storm surge is especially high for this storm as well. Storm surge is the No. 1 killer in hurricanes and the reason for the evacuation orders that have been called up and down the coast.

Coastal spots in Jefferson, Taylor, Dixie and Levy counties were expected to see the worst as of the Tuesday night forecast  12 to 16 feet of surge above ground level.

The hurricane center is now predicting even more storm surge for the Apalachee Bay region of Florida at up to 16 feet.

Were going to have destructive wave action on top of that that can actually destroy homes and buildings and make this a place that is difficult to survive, Michael Brennan, director of the National Hurricane Center, said in a Tuesday morning video update.

South Florida felt the first bands of Idalias gusty winds Tuesday afternoon in the Keys, which are also expected to see a couple of feet of storm surge. Miami-Dade and Broward are mostly out of the hot seat, but gusts of strong winds  as well as a couple of inches of rain  began Tuesday evening. The rain and wind are expected to continue through Wednesday evening.

Idalia was not expected to be a huge rainmaker, but even a few inches could cause flooding in coastal South Florida, since Wednesday is the first king tide, the annual series of highest tides, of the year.

As of 4 a.m. Wednesday, Hurricane Idalia was about 90 miles west of Cedar Key and 60 miles south of Tallahassee, with maximum sustained winds of 125 mph. It was headed north at 17 mph with tropical-storm-force winds extending out up to 160 miles from the center. Hurricane-force winds extended out 25 miles from the center.

Officials urge residents to evacuate from historic storm

Evacuations were already underway in 27 counties, and major theme parks, schools, airports and universities have closed in anticipation of Idalias arrival.

Earlier in the day, Desantis pleaded for residents to follow evacuation orders and keep themselves and their families safe.

READ MORE: When will Florida feel the worst weather from Hurricane Idalia? See times for each area

By the time we get to the end of tonight, youre gonna see some nasty weather, DeSantis said in a morning news conference. Be warned about that and do what you need to do right now to keep yourself and your family safe.

He ran through numbers to emphasize the states preparations  55,000 National Guardsmen ready, 42,000 gallons of fuel available, and 25,000 linemen already stationed.

Carol Carlin, co-owner of Island Trading Post carries out her fathers bubble gum machine displayed at the store as she and her family prepare to evacuate for Hurricane Idalia in Cedar Key, Florida on Tuesday, August 29, 2023.

In Cedar Key, police were knocking on doors to convince residents, like Carol Carlin, to evacuate. Carlin, 28, spent the morning packing clothes at the shop her family has owned for about 13 years, Island Trading Post.

If you look at it from the outside, its not the best, she said during a brief break from packing. This whole town is very, very old, so a lot of the infrastructure thats on Second Street  its been there for 100-plus years. Im just really worried it might not be the same when we get back.

Carlin said many are leaving the tiny Gulf Coast town, which has a population of less than 700. But a friend has insisted on staying on the island, she said.

He said his house is rated for a category 5 storm, but is it? she said, with a furrowedbrow. Its never been tested.

Government help on the way

The director of the Federal Emergency Management Agency, in a Tuesday afternoon media conference at the White House, said the agency was prepared to respond to Idalia, including with search-and-rescue teams.

They are all ready to pivot to the most impacted areas immediately after the storm, FEMA Director Deanne Criswell told reporters. We also have warehouses filled with commodities like food, water, blankets and medical supplies that are ready to rapidly move to the impacted area at the states request.

Criswell said she spoke on the phone with DeSantis on Monday about coordinated state and federal preparations. The governor told Criswell, she said, that he was worried about people taking the storm seriously as well as making sure vulnerable people receive the help they need to evacuate away from the storms path.

Ethan Campbell loads up a truck with bags of merchandise gathered from the Island Trading Post as people prepare for Hurricane Idalia in Cedar Key, Florida on Tuesday, August 29, 2023.

The American Red Cross has also been readying supplies, said Brad Kieserman, vice president for disaster operations, in a Tuesday afternoon media call. He noted that there are more than 20,000 individual supplies stocked in Jacksonville, 75 vehicles to hand out meals and other supplies, and 100,000 shelf-stable meals.

We have been moving supplies now for over 72 hours, he said.

Kieserman said the Red Cross has staff placed in several counties, including Volusia, Seminole, Pasco, Hardee, Dixie, Taylor and Columbia Counties, but the plan is to focus on vulnerable, rural communities after landfall.

Particularly of concern in some of the counties are elderly and disabled people, said Sherman Gillums, Jr., director of FEMAs office of disability, integration and coordination. Gillums said about 14.5% of the total population of all counties under evacuation orders are disabled, more than 1.5 million people.

Jeff Wigsten and Bobby Touchton, left to right, board up Big Deck Raw Bar in Cedar Key, Florida, in preparation for Hurricane Idalia on Tuesday, August 29, 2023. on Tuesday, August 29, 2023.

Some of those counties with mandatory evacuation orders either do not have special needs shelters or do not have enough space in them for the demand in the county, according to state documents. If thats the case, Gillums urged anyone to simply go to the nearest shelter to them, which is required to be ADA accessible.

I would see other shelters as non-options for people with disabilities, he said.

Kieserman, with the Red Cross, echoed Gillums and said Floridians should get to safety first, then call the Red Cross and ask for additional help meeting their needs if the current shelter does not provide it.

Dont wait to get out of the path of the storm, we can always relocate later, he said.

Tampa Bay Times/Miami Herald Tallahassee Bureau staff writer Romy Ellenbogen and McClatchy DC White House Correspondent Alex Roarty contributed to this report.
A man serving a life sentence was given the green light to grow a beard while in prison due to his religious belief, despite the Florida Department of Corrections grooming policy, according to reports.

The decision came after the 11th Circuit Court of Appeals upheld a ruling that Durell Sims, a Muslim man housed at South Bay Correctional Facility, could keep his facial hair, according to WUWF-TV. It dismissed the DOCs arguments that Sims didnt pursue all administrative procedures before moving forward with a lawsuit related to the matter.

Durell Sims challenged the Florida Department of Corrections on its grooming policy. (Photo:Florida Department of Corrections)

Sims, serving time for attempted murder, previously filed a lawsuit against the secretary of the state DOC, challenging the beard policy, which only allows the hair to grow a half-inch or remain clean-shaven, the McClatchy Washington Bureau reported.



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He pointed out that the departments policy was in violation of the Religious Land Use and Institutionalized Persons Act  which in part prohibits imposing burdens on peoples religious practices. One of his lawyers said that the victory could help other incarcerated seeking exceptions due to their faith.

The Religious Land Use and Institutionalized Persons Act protects religious freedom for all, Olivia Kelman said, according to the McClatchy Washington Bureau. And so the importance of this is that folks who have various religious beliefs are entitled to exceptions that meet the standards of the law in order to practice and fulfill their religious beliefs, even while incarcerated, and that was the intent of Congress to provide for religious freedom of inmates who are incarcerated.

Prior to filing the lawsuit, Sims tried to rectify the issue internally three times, the outlet reported. He first filled out an informal grievance form, which was rejected by the facility chaplain. A formal grievance was denied, and when he attempted to appeal with the department secretary, he wasnt successful.

In short, Floridas grievance procedures do not require that a prisoner file a petition to initiate rulemaking, the ruling penned by judge Britt Grant said, per WUWF. Floridas process instead requires just three things: an informal grievance, a formal grievance, and an appeal to the [corrections] secretary.

CLICK HERE TO READ MORE.
Rain comes down as cars drive along Kuebler Boulevard in Salem, Ore. on Friday, Nov. 4, 2022.

Two weather systems of rainfall are expected to hit western Oregon this week, potentially bringing a slowdown to a busy wildfire season.

Moisture is forecast to arrive Tuesday and again on Thursday, said meteorologists at the National Weather Service in Portland and Medford.

Overall, its looking very favorable for a decent amount of precipitation, said David Bishop, a meteorologist with NWS Portland. It wont necessarily put the kibosh on every fire thats currently active, but it should put down some of the smaller ones and improve conditions on the bigger ones.

The system arriving Tuesday is the lighter of the two, with 0.1 to 0.2 of an inch possible, with more likely in the mountains. Northwest Oregon should get at least some rain, while southwest Oregon is unlikely to see as much.

 Who is ready for some rain? A weather system is forecast to bring chances of rain showers to much of NW OR & SW WA tomorrow - Wednesday. There's also a 15-35% chance of thunderstorms across the region Monday afternoon - Tuesday. #ORwx #WAwx pic.twitter.com/OtWYh35JzJ  NWS Portland (@NWSPortland) August 28, 2023

The big question centers on Thursdays storm, which is forecast to be heavier and could bring a quarter to a half inch of rain, said Bishop.

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Im not saying its going to happen, but the Thursday system could overperform and really bring a lot of help, Bishop said.

Bishop said he understood the skepticism, given how dry Oregon has been.

Were getting a really good sign of a pattern change already with that cool marine layer spreading across the area. Thats a good sign this one is going to hold up.

In southwest Oregon, Chandler Price, with NWS Medford, said they were optimistic the Thursday system would bring at least a few tenths of an inch and up to a quarter to a half inch of rain in the mountains.

I wouldnt call this a fire-season ending event, Price said. It should be beneficial, helping clear out smoke and slowing down the fires, but I dont see it bringing an end to fire season.

Zach Urness has been an outdoors reporter in Oregon for 15 years and is host of the Explore Oregon Podcast. To support his work, subscribe to the Statesman Journal. Urness is the author of Best Hikes with Kids: Oregon and Hiking Southern Oregon. He can be reached at zurness@StatesmanJournal.com or (503) 399-6801. Find him on Twitter at @ZachsORoutdoors.

This article originally appeared on Salem Statesman Journal: Oregon wildfires: Will rain be enough to quell roaring fires?
India will launch its first sun-studying spacecraft this weekend, if all goes according to plan.

The Aditya-L1 solar observatory is scheduled to launch Saturday (Sept. 2) at 2:20 a.m. EDT (0620 GMT; 11:50 local India time), the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) announced on Monday (Aug. 28).

The spacecraft will lift off atop a Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle from Satish Dhawan Space Centre, on the island of Sriharikota, just off India's east coast. You'll be able to watch the action here at Space.com, courtesy of ISRO.

Related: Space weather: What is it and how is it predicted?

PSLV-C57/Aditya-L1 Mission:The launch of Aditya-L1, the first space-based Indian observatory to study the Sun , is scheduled for September 2, 2023, at 11:50 Hrs. IST from Sriharikota. Citizens are invited to witness the launch from the Launch View Gallery at pic.twitter.com/bjhM5mZNrxAugust 28, 2023

See more

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Aditya-L1 will initially head to low Earth orbit, where its various systems will get an in-space checkout from the mission team. If all is well, the spacecraft will gradually loosen its orbit, eventually breaking free of our planet's gravitational pull. Once free from Earth's grip, Aditya-L1 will make its way to the Earth-sun Lagrange Point 1, a gravitationally stable spot about 1 million miles (1.5 million kilometers) away.

"A satellite placed in the halo orbit around the L1 point has the major advantage of continuously viewing the sun without any occultation/eclipses," ISRO officials wrote in an Aditya-L1 mission description. "This will provide a greater advantage of observing the solar activities and its effect on space weather in real time."

That destination explains the "L1" part of the mission's name. "Aditya," meanwhile, translates to "sun" in Sanskrit.

Once at L1, the probe will use its seven science instruments to study the sun in a variety of ways. For example, Aditya-L1's data could help researchers better understand the dynamics of solar flares and massive eruptions of superhot solar plasma known as coronal mass ejections, ISRO officials said.

The mission could also shed light on why the sun's outer atmosphere, known as the corona, is so much hotter than its surface  about 1.8 million degrees Fahrenheit (1 million degrees Celsius), compared to just 10,000 degrees F (5,500 degrees C) or so.

RELATED STORIES:

 Earth's sun: Facts about the sun's age, size and history

 ISRO: The Indian Space Research Organisation

 Powerful sun storm knocks out radio transmissions across North America

India's launch of the roughly 3.8-billion-rupee ($45 million US) Aditya-L1 mission will follow closely on the heels of the nation's great success on the moon: The country's Chandrayaan-3 lander-rover duo aced their landing on Earth's nearest neighbor last Wednesday (Aug. 23).

Chandrayaan-3 has since been exploring the moon's south polar region, an area that hadn't hosted a surface mission until now. Exploration advocates are intrigued by the moon's polar regions because they're thought to host large amounts of water ice, a key resource that could support human outposts.

Chandrayaan-3's Vikram lander and Pragyan rover are expected to operate for about one lunar day (14 Earth days) before being silenced by the bitter cold and darkness of the long lunar night.
This image from video provided by the Indian Space Research Organisation shows the surface of the moon as the Chandrayaan-3 spacecraft prepares for landing on Wednesday, Aug. 23, 2023. India became the first country to land a spacecraft near the moons south pole, which scientists believe could hold vital reserves of frozen water. (ISRO via AP)

NEW DELHI (AP)  Indias moon rover confirmed the presence of sulfur and detected several other elements near the lunar south pole as it searches for signs of frozen water nearly a week after its historic moon landing, Indias space agency said Tuesday.

The rover's laser-induced spectroscope instrument also detected aluminum, iron, calcium, chromium, titanium, manganese, oxygen and silicon on the lunar surface, the Indian Space Research Organization, or ISRO, said in a post on its website.

The lunar rover had come down a ramp from the lander of Indias spacecraft after last Wednesdays touchdown near the moons south pole. The Chandrayan-3 Rover is expected to conduct experiments over 14 days, the ISRO has said.

The rover "unambiguously confirms the presence of sulfur, ISRO said. It also is searching for signs of frozen water that could help future astronaut missions, as a potential source of drinking water or to make rocket fuel.

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The rover also will study the moon's atmosphere and seismic activity, ISRO Chairman S. Somnath said.

On Monday, the rover's route was reprogrammed when it came close to a 4-meter-wide (13-foot-wide) crater. "Its now safely heading on a new path," the ISRO said.

The craft moves at a slow speed of around 10 centimeters (4 inches) per second to minimize shock and damage to the vehicle from the moon's rough terrain.

After a failed attempt to land on the moon in 2019, India last week joined the United States, the Soviet Union and China as only the fourth country to achieve this milestone.

The successful mission showcases Indias rising standing as a technology and space powerhouse and dovetails with the image that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is trying to project: an ascendant country asserting its place among the global elite.

The mission began more than a month ago at an estimated cost of $75 million.

Indias success came just days after Russias Luna-25, which was aiming for the same lunar region, spun into an uncontrolled orbit and crashed. It would have been the first successful Russian lunar landing after a gap of 47 years. Russias head of the state-controlled space corporation Roscosmos attributed the failure to the lack of expertise due to the long break in lunar research that followed the last Soviet mission to the moon in 1976.

Active since the 1960s, India has launched satellites for itself and other countries, and successfully put one in orbit around Mars in 2014. India is planning its first mission to the International Space Station next year, in collaboration with the United States.
This aerial photo taken on Aug. 17, 2023 shows the construction site of a photovoltaic project in Taizhou city, east China's Zhejiang province. [Photo/Xinhua]





As of the end of July, the installed capacity of clean energy in east China's Zhejiang province reached 57.51 million kilowatts, surpassing that of coal power units for the first time, according to the latest data from State Grid Zhejiang Electric Power Co., Ltd.

Of the total installed power capacity of Zhejiang, clean energy accounted for 46 percent, coal 40.1 percent, natural gas power 10.7 percent, and the remaining 3.2 percent held by other sources, according to the company.

In recent years, the province has promoted the adoption of clean energy by expanding the use of wind power, solar energy and nuclear energy, among other initiatives, thereby reducing the reliance on coal.

The rise in the share of installed capacity of clean energy has brought new opportunities to emerging industries such as photovoltaics, power batteries and new-energy vehicles (NEVs).

Previous data showed that nearly 1 million charging poles had been installed across the province. It plans to build more than 2.3 million charging poles by 2025 to meet the charging demand of over 4 million NEVs.
More than 100 top executives from a broad array of industries are calling on the Biden administration to help cities and states better handle the influx of migrants by increasing funding for social services and speeding up work permits.

In a letter to President Biden and congressional leaders, the leaders called for educational, housing, security, and health care services to offset the costs that local and state governments are incurring, backing New York Gov. Kathy Hochul (D), who has been vocal in calling for more federal resources.

The business leaders also made an appeal to speed up processing so migrants can work legally.

In addition, there is a compelling need for expedited processing of asylum applications and work permits for those who meet federal eligibility standards, they wrote.

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Immigration policies and control of our countrys border are clearly a federal responsibility; state and local governments have no standing in this matter.

The issue of work permits for asylum seekers and parolees is a matter of tension both outside and within the Biden administration.

Foreign nationals gain eligibility for work permits based on a number of factors, including how they entered the country and what immigration status they are requesting.

Asylum applicants by and large are subject to a 180-day waiting period before they can apply for work permits, but applicants who were paroled into the country  including through the Biden administrations expanded legal pathways for entry  are not subject to the bar.

Administration officials have expressed frustration that many asylum seekers who entered with parole may be eligible to apply for work permits but remain unaware and needlessly waiting out the 180-day period.

And Department of Homeland Security officials have sped up the amount of time it takes to process work papers for asylum seekers, but because of limited resources, that effort has slowed processing for other categories of immigrants.

The administration has also been called upon to make unprecedented use of other executive tools such as Temporary Protected Status, but officials have been reluctant to be too aggressive, reportedly citing the potential to detonate lawsuits and further migration.

The executives noted that the economy is ready to absorb more workers, and private industry is ready to employ new arrivals.

There are labor shortages in many U.S. industries, where employers are prepared to offer training and jobs to individuals who are authorized to work in the United States, they wrote.

The business community is also providing in-kind assistance and philanthropic support to organizations that are addressing the immediate needs of this largely destitute population.

The executives also preempted the administrations go-to answer for requests on immigration policy: that its up to Congress to reform outdated immigration laws.

Bipartisan action by Congress and the Administration is ultimately the way to resolve immigration issues, but that will take time, they wrote.

In the interim, we urge you to take immediate action to better control the border and the process of asylum and provide relief to the cities and states that are bearing the burdens posed by the influx of asylum seekers.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Embattled conservative activist Matt Schlapp made an offer in March to settle the multimillion-dollar sexual battery and defamation lawsuit against him, but the proposal was rejected, according to multiple people with direct knowledge of the matter.

The offer from Schlapp was in the low six figures, according to the sources. But Schlapps accuserRepublican strategist Carlton Huffman, who filed the lawsuit against Schlapp and his wife, Mercedes Schlapp , in Januaryturned it down and countered with a substantially higher sum. Schlapp did not accept the counterproposal, the sources said.

The settlement negotiations were brought to the attention of officials at Schlapps organization, the American Conservative Union, which hosts the annual CPAC conferences. But the ACU board was not formally consulted and did not vote on the offer ahead of time, according to multiple people with knowledge of the events. These sources spoke to The Daily Beast on the condition of anonymity, citing fear of retaliation.

Matt Schlapps Sexual Assault Accuser Identifies Himself: Im Not Backing Away

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In a statement to The Daily Beast on behalf of the Schlapps, their publicist Mark Corallo denied that a settlement was offered.

We take seriously our professional conduct and would never discuss the details of confidential conversations between lawyers. But since it appears Mr. Huffman or his attorney have done so, let me set the record straight: There was no settlement offer, Corallo said. From the outset Mr. and Mrs. Schlapp have been and remain prepared to go to trial and are confident of prevailing in court.

Asked about the veracity of the assertion that there was no settlement offer, Huffmans attorney, Tim Hyland, told The Daily Beast that the claim was categorically false.

These back-door negotiations are among a number of developments that have raised internal concerns at the ACU in recent months, as Schlapp has persistently kept the board out of the loop in discussions related to Huffmans allegation, the lawsuit, funding for his legal defense, and the ACUs own bookkeeping, according to sources with knowledge of the events and previous news reports.

Schlappthrough spokespeople, surrogates, and legal counselhas denied that he ever inappropriately touched Huffman, who claims that Schlapp grabbed my junk and pummeled it at length one night last October, while Huffman, at the time a staffer with Herschel Walkers senatorial campaign, chauffeured the CPAC chairman to his hotel after a night of drinking in Atlanta. Huffman provided contemporaneous communications to support his account, which was further corroborated by campaign officials. Several national outlets confirmed the existence of the allegation ahead of Huffmans lawsuit.

But Schlapps apparent attempt to settle the lawsuit may cast new doubt on the ACU chairmans story.

USA-ELECTION/CPAC REUTERS/Sarah Silbiger

Multiple sources described Schlapps behavior in response to the allegations as bizarre. He continues to reject calls for an internal investigation, and ACU board meetings have been structured in a way that has precluded any discussion of the allegation. Those moves have only deepened concerns, even among longtime allies who initially defended him, according to the sources.

One such former allyformer ACU vice president Charlie Gerow, who in January put his name on a pugilistic denial to The Daily Beasts initial report about Huffmans claimsput these issues front and center in his resignation last Friday.

In his public statement, Gerow called on the organization to conduct an independent forensic audit of the organizations finances, secure a written opinion of counsel that the organization is in full compliance with its own bylaws and all applicable law, and thoroughly review the exit interviews of the large number of staff who have recently left.

In a private letter, Gerow also urged the board to investigate all allegations against Schlapp, including any new accusations that may arise. The Daily Beast has confirmed the existence of two new allegations through multiple people informed of the incidents, as well as one accusera former CPAC stafferwho confirmed the existence of these allegations directly, adding for the first time that he had informed CPAC staff about the incident at the time. The Washington Post first reported on those new allegations on Saturday.

Asked for comment, Gerow told The Daily Beast his letter speaks for itself.

As the lawsuit against Schlapp proceeds deeper into the discovery phase, these sources with knowledge of the matter said the CPAC leaders moves appear directly at odds with transparency. And as the months go by, these people said, Schlapps stubborn refusal to address questions about Huffmans allegation appears increasingly reckless, putting his organization on a collision course with financial and legal liabilities.

Asked what could explain a desperation so apparently fervent that it has even begun to repel longtime allies, one person with direct knowledge of the matter replied, This organization is all he has. Theres nothing to fall back on.

Herschel Walker Staffer: Matt Schlapp Groped My Crotch

In recent weeks, the lawsuits discovery phase has uncovered new information that has led Huffman to seriously contemplate adding the ACU as a defendant in the lawsuit, according to two people with direct knowledge of the matter. Former ACU officials told The Daily Beast that this move has been anticipated within the organization for some time, and could potentially shackle the board to the largely secretive legal strategy Schlapp has been pursuinga track which, these people said, appears headed straight for a potentially damaging conclusion.

Schlapp has aggressively denied Huffmans allegation through spokespeople and court statements filed by his legal counsel. His surrogates have also highlighted Huffmans own flawsincluding a restraining order against him for alleged sexual impropriety with two young women in February, as well as his expression of solidarity with white supremacist ideologies more than a decade ago. Huffman has acknowledged and denounced those previous statements as ugly.

Schlapp himself has not directly addressed the accusation. His attorney, along with counsel for ACU, did not reply to The Daily Beasts detailed request for comment.

In a 362-word statement, ACU and CPAC spokesperson Alexandra Preate falsely claimed that The Daily Beast was on a partisan mission with Huffman and his lawyer to destroy ACU/CPAC, one of the most effective and respected conservative organizations in the country, and its leader Matt Schlapp. (Huffman, for his part, is a lifelong conservative and Republican political operative.)

The statement also took shots at Gerow, who for some time through his actions has given his colleagues on the board the impression that he was angling for Schlapps chairmanship. Preate also claimed that Gerow was the only person who repeatedly urged Schlapp to settle the case, and lost the confidence and trust of his colleagues on the board and was not renominated.

For their part, the Schlapps have been firm in their resolve to be vindicated and are fully prepared to go to trial, the statement continued, adding that the couple believes that a jury of good and honest citizens will discredit Huffman as a former white supremist [sic] with his own history of inappropriate sexual conduct.

The statement did not explicitly deny or even address the veracity of Huffmans allegations.

This month, Huffman also subpoenaed ACUs one-time chief financial officer, Bob Beauprez, who submitted his resignation letter in May. In that letter, Beauprez also rang the alarm about Schlapps handling of the allegation, with the organizations top fiduciary separately declaring that he no longer had confidence in the accuracy of ACUs financial statements.

Beauprezs uncertainty extended to the funding for Schlapps legal defense. While the ACU agreed to front Schlapp $50,000 to retain his attorneyBenjamin Chew, who defended Johnny Depp in part of his defamation caseSchlapp also incurred another $270,000, which he claimed to have raised through ACU and donors, according to Beauprezs resignation letter.

Matt Schlapp and Our Culture of Protecting Predators

The CFO, however, said he could not independently verify exactly where that money came fromor how it had passed through the organization.

Schlapp has spun up a number of fundraising entities, including the First Amendment Fund, which purports to raise money for Jan. 6 defendants, and the Chestnut Street Council, an opaque donor coalition formed in early 2022 that appears to have dissolved this year, according to Wyoming business records.

Beauprez declined to comment for this story.

These questions also apply to Mercedes Schlapps defense, which Chew is also handling. Huffman has accused Schlapps wife of defamation, citing private statements she made about him in response to The Daily Beasts reporting. ACUs most recent tax filing, from 2022, indicates that Mercedes Schlapp is on the organizations payroll, receiving $175,500 for strategic comm. It isnt clear from the tax filing whether Mercedes Schlapp was a direct employee or an independent contractor.

That question could carry implications for ACUs financial obligations, specifically whether its proper for the organization to cover legal fees in connection to statements that could fall outside the scope of her employment.

In response to questions about Mercedes Schlapps legal fees, Preate replied that she is represented by counsel retained by her insurer. She did not immediately reply to a follow-up about whether the insurer is strictly private or part of ACUs coverage.

In December, shortly after Huffman posted a tweet accusing Schlapp of drunken misconduct, the ACU ordered all employees to sign non-disclosure agreements, The Washington Post previously reported.

But Huffmans accusation no longer stands alone. The Daily Beast has independently confirmed The Washington Posts reporting this weekend about two more allegations against Schlapp that have come to the attention of ACU officials.

One of the alleged incidents occurred during a CPAC work trip in Palm Beach, Florida, in early 2022, when Schlapp made an allegedly unwanted and inappropriate advance towards an executive assistant to a wealthy GOP donor, according to multiple people informed of the incident. When The Daily Beast reached out to the alleged victim, he said he had no comment for now.

In the second incident, from early 2017, Schlapp allegedly tried to kiss a male staffer while drunk after a CPAC event, the staffer told The Daily Beast. The staffer, who no longer works for the organization, provided documentation from earlier that same eveningalso reported by the Postshowing Schlapp made what the staffer described as unwanted and intrusive physical contact. Multiple former officials confirmed knowledge of the allegation. They also corroborated the former staffers claim that he informed CPAC staff about the incident at the time.

In a statement to the Post, ACU board member Matt Smith claimed that Gerow had fabricated both of these allegationsan accusation that the reporting directly undercuts.

The Daily Beast asked the former staffer if he would like to comment on his 2017 experience, specifically in light of Smiths implication that it did not happen and he does not exist.

I learned that even though I held someone in high regard at the time, giving him the benefit of the doubt was naive, the former staffer said.

Read more at The Daily Beast.

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The News

Donald Trump still holds a significant lead over his opponents following the first Republican primary debate and his Georgia arrest, according to an internal poll of likely Republican voters obtained by Semafor.

The poll, conducted by the polling firm co/efficient and commissioned by Trumps 2024 presidential campaign, found Trump with 58% support, three points up from an August 7 poll. The Florida governor had 13% support while Nikki Haley was in third with 7%. Vivek Ramaswamy, seen lately as the up-and-comer in independent polls, sat in fourth place with 4% support. Trump also held a 39-point lead over Ron DeSantis on a head-to-head ballot with only their names listed. The poll sampled 2,762 likely Republican primary voters.

Know More

Polls conducted at the behest of presidential campaigns are typically taken with a grain of salt compared to polls conducted independently, though its hardly alone in finding Trump with a massive lead. A poll by Emerson College this week also found Trump with a 38-point lead over DeSantis, albeit with some slippage in his position since the debate. The internal poll also found that 74% of those polled believe the investigations and indictment into the former president are politically motivated, compared to just 15% who feel Trump committed a crime. This data also squares with public findings.

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The Trump poll comes shortly after a post-debate Iowa poll from Public Opinion Strategies, which works for DeSantis camp, found the Florida governor up 7 points to 21% support in Iowa after the first debate, compared to Trumps 41%.

Co/efficient CEO Ryan Munce told Semafor that support for the former president has remained fairly stable at the state and national level, with his favorable ratings increasing throughout the campaign.

Step Back

Trump continues to solidify his hold on the nomination, but theres little sign hes catching on with the broader public. An ABC News/Ipsos poll earlier this month found just 31% of voters held a favorable opinion of Trump, versus 55% who held an unfavorable one. The good news for Trump: President Biden also held a 31% unfavorable rating. A number of recent general election polls show them effectively tied.
As the final days of summer slowly trickle away, many in western Pennsylvania are taking advantage of Labor Day weekend for their last-minute travel plans and international adventures.

According to AAA East Central and other travel agencies, the upcoming holiday weekend will be a popular time for families to explore the United States and popular tourist destinations abroad. Travel experts say that this year's travel is higher than the holiday weekend during 2022, with domestic travel increasing by 4% and international travel increasing by 44%.

As summer ends and school begins, many families are taking advantage of Labor Day weekend to head out of town for a few days, said Bevi Powell, senior vice president of AAA East Central. The long holiday weekend provides another opportunity to travel, whether planning a road trip to visit family and friends or deciding to take that dream trip to Canada or even Europe.

International destinations and domestic air travel seeing a spike during 2023

As many families prepare to return to school and see spikes in extracurricular obligations after the long weekend, booking data shows that these travelers are seeking to get their last-minute summer experiences across the globe.

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International destinations have seen a large influx of tourism this year, with popular destinations including Vancouver, Rome, London, Dublin and Paris. International hotel bookings have gone up by 82% this year and cruise bookings are also seeing renewed popularity after the COVID-19 pandemic, with reservations for travel on these boats increasing by over 40% during 2023.

A crowd of travelers and airport personnel get off the Sky Train at Phoenix Sky Harbor Terminal 4 on June 30, 2023, in Phoenix, Ariz.

When breaking down this data, AAA East Central said Canada remains a popular destination around this time of year due to cooler temperatures and impressive scenery. As restrictions on travel have been lifted in European countries, many families are also taking the opportunity to explore new locations "across the pond" while the weather remains warm.

Flights departing from the Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT) have seen a slight preference for London, aided by a renewed partnership with British Airways, as well as tropical destinations for those looking for leisure.

"Our British Airways nonstop flight to London Heathrow, which operates six days a week, remains very popular with both leisure and business passengers," said Matt Neistein, public affairs manager at PIT. "The fifth and sixth days, which were just added this spring, have increased the number of people taking advantage of this service. Its particularly convenient because Heathrow offers them a connection to more than 200 other destinations around the world. And we continue to see strong leisure service to Caribbean destinations like Cancun and Punta Cana."

For domestic travel, popular destinations this holiday weekend will include Seattle, Orlando, Anchorage, New York and Las Vegas. According to AAA, demand for travel to Seattle has risen as more travelers utilize Alaskan cruises departing from the city's port. While Florida's travel numbers have dipped in recent months, the spot still remains a popular destination for beaches, theme parks and cruise ship departures.

Traveler approaches the self-check-in kiosks for Southwest Airlines in Denver International Airport as the Labor Day holiday approaches Tuesday, Aug. 30, 2022, in Denver. (AP Photo/David Zalubowski)

While not as popular as dates around Thanksgiving or Christmas, air travel at PIT often booms around Labor Day weekend and the airport is expected to be busy with families getting away for the holiday. As the travel industry continues to recover from a slump caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, officials are optimistic about the renewed interest in seeing the world and traveling by air.

"This is something we regularly see each year, so its normal for us to accommodate," Neistein said. "For this year, we expect the number of seats arriving and departing at PIT from Sept. 1 to Sept. 5 to be close to 160,000. Thats a 14 percent increase from 2022. Traffic overall has been at or above pre-pandemic levels on several days this summer and we expect to be consistently back at that point very soon."

Residents in western Pennsylvania planning to depart from the Pittsburgh International Airport may notice some heavy construction efforts as the airport continues its modernization program, which officials say is continuing to progress successfully around the terminal. Travelers should remain aware and read all signs when arriving at the airport, as many routes outside and inside the terminal have been adjusted to accommodate the construction sites.

A traveler at the Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT) watches the construction outside Concourse D as he waits for a flight on March 9, 2023. The area outside will be a part of the renovated parking at the popular airport.

"As we build the airport of the future for the Pittsburgh region, our roadway system is under heavy construction which visitors will see as soon as they pull off the Parkway exit to the airport," Neistein said. "We continue to ask travelers to slow down in those construction zones for everyones safety and pay close attention to the temporary signage as their routes may be affected by the work. Inside the airport, theyll see some work areas around the escalators between the train platform and the Center Core area of the Airside Terminal. Those cordoned-off areas have changed some of the walking routes in that terminal, so people should keep an eye on the signage over there, as well."

Updates on construction: One year after groundbreaking, PIT Terminal Construction Project showing signs of future

Travelers are also reminded to have patience at the airport during this increased period of travel. Lines may be slightly longer during the holiday weekend and crowds may form as people wait for their flights. For ease of travel, it is recommended that travelers check their carry-ons for any items prohibited by the TSA and reserve parking spots ahead of departure by visiting FlyPittsburgh.com, ensuring a spot when arriving during high-demand times.

When is the best time to travel by car this weekend?

While air and boat travel has seen an increase in demand, the most popular option for families to get away remains personal vehicles. Traffic will increase around cities and popular roadways across the United States, potentially causing local delays for residents and some extended periods of slow travel while driving to vacation destinations.

As the roads see a spike in travelers, the busiest times for traffic are expected to be between 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. Thursday, as people begin to travel to their vacation destinations. Traffic is also expected to spike after 11 a.m. Friday.

According to INRIX, the best times to avoid traffic throughout the long weekend will be:

Wednesday, Aug. 30 - Before 7 a.m.

Thursday, Aug. 31 - Before 7 a.m.

Friday, Sept. 1 - Before 11 a.m.

Saturday, Sept. 2 - After 6 p.m.

Sunday, Sept. 3 - Minimal traffic expected

Monday, Sept. 4 - After 7 p.m.

This article originally appeared on Beaver County Times: More travelers headed abroad during this year's Labor Day weekend
Police launched an appeal for help Tuesday, more than a year after a boy's body was found in Germany's Danube River, weighed down with a flagstone slab and wrapped in foil.

The body, believed to be that of a boy between 5 and 6 years old, was discovered on May 19 last year near Grossmehring in Bavaria, Germany, INTERPOL said. Officials still don't know who the young boy was and are working to uncover details of the suspicious circumstances surrounding his death.

INTERPOL circulated a Black Notice, an international information-gathering alert, to the organization's 195 member countries. The notice included facial reconstruction images and physical characteristics of the boy.

INTERPOL Secretary General Jurgen Stock called on the global law enforcement community to cross-check databases and consult open and unsolved cases. Investigators believe he likely spent time outside of Germany.

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"Someone, somewhere knows something about this boy, making it equally important to release certain details publicly," Stock said. "Whether he was the victim of trafficking, abduction or violence, we are committed to mobilizing all of INTERPOL's policing capabilities to identify him and help investigators shed light on his death."

Investigators are asking for help identifying a boy whose body was found in the Danube River on May 19, 2022. / Credit: INTERPOL

The boy was approximately 3 feet, 7 inches tall and weighed around 33 pounds. He had brown hair and his blood type was O. The slab weighing down the boy's body was a "Natura Vigo" paving stone made by the German manufacturer Diephaus, according to INTERPOL.

Officials urged members of the public with relevant information to contact the national police team in Germany, especially if they know anything about a missing child whose characteristics and disappearance indicate a potential link to the boy found in the Danube.

German police can work with INTERPOL to produce DNA comparisons for people who believe the boy could be a biological relative.

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Teachers in Iowa are scrambling to remove books from their classrooms that might not comply with a new law. However, educators say the law is vague and confusing enough that they arent sure how to follow it  and at least one district is turning to artificial intelligence to help teachers avoid professional consequences.

Senate File 496 bans instructional materials with descriptions or visual depictions of a sex act. It also restricts instruction on gender or sexual orientation and prohibits students from going by a name that isnt on the schools file without parental permission. Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds (R) championed the law, saying it put parents in the drivers seat and empowers teachers to prepare our kids for their future.

The law went into effect on July 1. Starting in January, anyone who violates it could be subject to a written warning and a disciplinary hearing.

However, the Iowa Department of Education offers no guidance on how to ensure books comply with the law, leaving each school district to their own interpretation. Its unclear whether the department will be providing guidance in the future. The Iowa Department of Education did not respond to HuffPosts request for comment.

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One of the unintended consequences is that there is a wide variance of interpretation of the law, said Mike Beranek, the president of the Iowa State Education Association, the states only teachers union. The anxiety and the angst and the worry about the consequences if they do something wrong is very burdensome.

Some schools cast a wide net. In the Urbandale Community School District outside of Des Moines, a school official initially flagged nearly 400 books that potentially had to be removed. After a public outcry, the school board whittled the list down, eventually removing 65 books.

Bridgette Exman, assistant superintendent for instruction in Mason City, took a different approach: She used ChatGPT to narrow down which books could be violating the state law, Popular Science first reported.

People have poked a lot of holes in my process, but no one has given me a formal process, Exman told HuffPost.

Exman let ChatGPT choose from a list of books that are widely banned in U.S. schools, then read any she wasnt familiar with or reread ones that she didnt remember well. She eventually ended up with a list of 19 books that were removed.

When I think of all the things I could be spending my time on, spending hours and weeks on trying to protect kids from books just didnt sit right with me, said Exman, who is a former English teacher.

I should have been preparing professional development meetings, or learning how to welcome our new immigrant families, she added. Instead, Im googling book summaries.

Exman said the law fixes a problem that hadnt even existed, noting that Mason City schools havent had a book challenge in more than 20 years. Our communities trust us, she said.

But Exman said she felt as if she needed to flag certain books for removal because she was worried about what consequences teachers could face.

I want to protect our teachers, she said. This isnt fair to them and they dont want to lose their jobs. Iowa, like many other states, is in the midst of a teacher shortage due to low pay and restrictive laws.

But the Iowa state legislature is following a playbook that was popularized by Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis (R) and is now spreading rapidly in states controlled by Republicans. Culture warriors have zeroed in on public education over the last few years, with the goal of undermining it.

Theyre trying to demolish public education, Beranek said. Weve had legislators saying were sinister and that were trying to indoctrinate children.

Framing policies like the new law in Iowa as an issue of parental rights or protecting children, conservatives have enacted laws that prohibit books with LGBTQ+ or racial justice themes, policies that censor what teachers can say about gender identity and sexual orientation, and measures that attack transgender and nonbinary children. In short, GOP-led legislatures have launched an all-out war on their own constituents.

Theres been a real concerted effort in our state legislature to poke holes and damage the integrity of the public education system, Exman said. It feels like an intentional chaos bomb.

Related...
An Iowa man was sentenced to two and a half years in prison Monday after pleading guilty to making threats targeting Maricopa County Supervisor Clint Hickman and former Arizona Attorney General Mark Brnovich .

Mark Rissi of Hiawatha, Iowa, was arrested in October and charged with three counts of interstate threatening communication, according to federal court documents.

He left an expletive-filled voicemail on Sept. 27, 2021, telling Hickman that he and others were going to "lynch" him for "lying" about the 2020 election results, court documents show.

"When we come to lynch your stupid lying Commie (expletive), youll remember that you lied," Rissi said in the voicemail, per court documents. "Youre gonna die. ... Were going to hang you. Were going to hang you."

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He left another voicemail with the Arizona Attorney General's Office on Dec. 8, 2021, court documents show.

"Do your job ... or you will hang," he told Brnovich, according to court documents. "We will see to it. Torches and pitchforks. That's your future."

Hickman, who took the stand on Monday to talk about the emotional impact of Rissi's threats on him and his family, asked the judge to show mercy in his sentencing. Rissi also professed remorse. But U.S. District Judge Dominic Lanza sentenced Rissi to the maximum possible amount of time behind bars  six months longer than requested by federal prosecutors.

"I think the judge wanted to make a point that democracy is under attack with these sorts of behavior," Hickman said after the sentencing.

"This is bigger than just making a death threat to a supervisor in a podunk county," he added. "This is a direct assault on democracy and chasing people away from working in elections. So he wanted to send a statement, and I think he did."

An attorney for Rissi did not immediately respond to The Republic's request for comment.

For subscribers: Threats, technical issues on Election Day 2022 captured in Arizona poll workers' reports

Federal officials continue to prosecute threats against election officials

Rissi is one of several people prosecuted in federal court for threatening Arizona election officials.

Just weeks ago, a Massachusetts man pleaded guilty to sending a bomb threat to the Arizona Secretary of State's Office on Valentine's Day 2021. After sending the message, according to federal investigators, the man searched online for a state election official's name, address, and how to kill.

In early August, a Texas man was sentenced to three and half years in prison for threatening two Maricopa County officials and their families in relation to the 2022 election.

"Im willing to take lives. Thats the difference. If youre being unfairly and illegally persecuted, its built right into the constitution that you are supposed to protect yourself against a tyrannical government. This mean(s) their children are not off limits, either," the man wrote on Gab, according to charging documents.

Hickman said he hopes that criminal cases against those who threaten public officials over election conspiracies will help "put this stuff to bed."

"I certainly hope that this is over for me and my family," he said. "I don't know if it is. But at least in this case, he's been told not to make contact."

Sasha Hupka covers county government and election administration for The Arizona Republic. Do you have a tip to share on elections or voting? Reach her at sasha.hupka@arizonarepublic.com. Follow her on X, formerly Twitter: @SashaHupka. Follow her on Instagram or Threads: @sashahupkasnaps.

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Man who threatened to kill Arizona officials gets maximum sentence
Russia now lacks the "elite infantry" units it once relied on to conduct large-scale offensives in Ukraine, the Institute for the Study of War (ISW) wrote in its Aug. 28 report.

According to the ISW, the Russian military has been rapidly redeploying elite airborne units in front-line regions where Ukrainian counteroffensive troops are concentrated. On Aug. 27, an elite Russian air unit was transferred to Robotyne, likely from Luhansk Oblast.

Ukrainian forces liberated Robotyne on Aug. 28.

The ISW said that the frequent lateral redeployment of these units indicates that their capacity is likely diminishing.

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"The degradation of these forces will likely weaken Russias ability to sustain complex defensive operations and almost certainly disrupt any Russian intent to resume offensive operations at scale," the ISW said.

Such operations have previously depended largely on "elite infantry Russia now lacks," the ISW said.

The Aug. 28 report also discussed Russia's missile supply. According to Ukrainian officials, Russia has replenished its stocks to some extent, but lacks the capacity to carry out a campaign of equal magnitude to its winter 2022-2023 offensive.

"Russian forces conducted strikes with up to 100 missiles in a single strike series during the air campaign in the fall and winter of 2022, and the marginal replenishment of their missile stocks will likely prevent them from conducting an air campaign at anywhere near that scale," the ISW wrote.

However, the analysts pointed out that future Russian campaigns may rely less on missiles and more on high-precision drone strikes.

Read also: Everything you didnt know about Ukraines flag

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Special Counsel Jack Smiths office has repeatedly grilled witnesses about Rudy Giulianis drinking on and after election day, investigating whether Donald Trump was knowingly relying on an inebriated attorney while trying to overturn a presidential election.

In their questioning of multiple witnesses, Smiths team of federal investigators have asked questions about how seemingly intoxicated Giuliani was during the weeks he was giving Trump advice on how to cling to power, according to a source whos been in the room with Smiths team, one witnesss attorney, and a third person familiar with the matter.

The special counsels team has also asked these witnesses if Trump had ever gossiped with them about Giulianis drinking habits, and if Trump had ever claimed Giulianis drinking impacted his decision making or judgment. Federal investigators have inquired about whether the then-president was warned, including after Election Night 2020, about Giulianis allegedly excessive drinking. They have also asked certain witnesses if Trump was told that the former New York mayor was giving him post-election legal and strategic advice while inebriated.

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Furthermore, the special counsels office has probed how drunk witnesses and others believed Giuliani to be during specific and consequential moments of the tumultuous Trump-Biden presidential transition. Investigators asked for details that showed precisely how these witnesses knew firsthand the attorney was drinking while counseling Trump on subverting and overturning the 2020 presidential election.

Federal prosecutors often arent interested in investigating mere alcohol consumption. But according to lawyers and witnesses whove been in the room with special counsel investigators, Smith and his team are interested in this subject because it could help demonstrate that Trump was implementing the counsel of somebody he knew to be under the influence and perhaps not thinking clearly. If that were the case, it could add to federal prosecutors argument that Trump behaved with willful recklessness in his attempts nullify the 2020 election  by relying heavily on a lawyer he believed to be working while inebriated, and another who he bashed for spouting crazy conspiracy theories that Trump ran with anyway.

And if federal prosecutors were to make this argument in court, it could undermine Trump and his legal teams advice of counsel defense. To avoid legal consequences or even possible prison time, the ex-president is already wielding this legal defense to try to scapegoat lawyers who advised him on overturning the election  even though these attorneys were only acting on Trumps behalf, or doing what Trump had instructed them to do.

In order to rely upon an advice of counsel defense, the defendant has to, number one, have made full disclosure of all material facts to the attorney, explains Mitchell Epner, a former Assistant United States Attorney for the District of New Jersey. That requires that the attorney understands whats being told to them. If you know that your attorney is drunk, that does not count as making full disclosure of all material facts.

Defendants looking to rely on that defense also have to have reasonably followed the attorneys recommended course of conduct in good faith, according to Epner. Now if, for example, Trump was getting two sets of advice from an attorney: one before 4 p.m. and when the attorney hadnt been drinking and a second, much more aggressive set of advice after 4 p.m., when he had been drinking and this was a pattern, it would not be reasonable to rely on the drunk advice.

Some witnesses told Smiths team that they saw Giuliani consuming significant quantities of alcohol; some told the special counsels office that they could clearly smell alcohol on Giulianis breath, including on election night, and that they noticed distinct changes in his demeanor from hours prior, the sources tell Rolling Stone.

Some have already told investigators that they were directly aware of moments when Trump had talked to others about Giulianis drinking, and that Trump spoke negatively about his then-top lawyers alcohol consumption. (Trump is known for being a longtime teetotaler.)

The special counsels office declined to comment on this story on Tuesday morning. A Trump spokesperson did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

In a statement to Rolling Stone, Giuliani spokesperson Ted Goodman wrote that One should always question a story that is completely reliant on anonymous sources. This false narrative by nameless sources has been contradicted by on-the-record witnesses. Last year, the former New York City mayor brought his friend and former business partner Roy Bailey onto his podcast, where he claimed Giuliani had been sober on election night 2020. I was with you that night and you had nothing to drink. You were all business.

Giuliani himself has repeatedly and vehemently denied allegations that he was drunk when he encouraged Trump, against the express wishes of some of the then-presidents senior aides, to falsely declare victory on Election Night 2020. The former New York City mayor has also pushed back on claims that his drinking contributed to his shift in public image from post-9/11 Americas Mayor to raging Trumpist. Im not an alcoholic, Giuliani told NBC New York in 2021. I probably function more effectively than 90 percent of the population.

None of this stopped claims of his public drunkenness from entering the public record, in the form of another high-stakes, wide-ranging investigation into the Jan. 6 Capitol riot and Trumps efforts to cling to power.

Last year, when the House select committee probing the Jan. 6 attack held public hearings, the panel aired video clips of depositions of Trump brass, which included senior Trump adviser Jason Miller telling congressional investigators: I think the mayor was definitely intoxicated, but I do not know his level of intoxication when he spoke with the president on Election Night.

When these clips went viral, Giuliani angrily responded in a tweet that he REFUSED all alcohol that evening, and that he was disgusted and outraged at the out right lie.

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UPDATE, 8/29/23: The Jacksonville Beach Police Department said Kylie has been found safe.

Original story from 8/28/23 below:

The Jacksonville Beach Police Department is seeking the publics help in finding 15-year-old Kylie Short.

>>> STREAM ACTION NEWS JAX LIVE <<<

Kylie went missing on Sunday, August 27, and was last spotted at Jacksonville Beach before heading to the Regency AMC movie theater in a city bus. Kylie was dressed in a black BRATZ logo shirt and shorts. Authorities believe she might be around 103rd Street in Jacksonville.

The JBPD stated that she was a runaway.

Missing Teen Details:

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Name : Kylie Sue Short

Date of Birth : 11/16/2007

Race : Female

Height/Weight : 509/200 lbs.

Hair/Eye Color: Black/Brown

For any information, please contact Detective Corporal Warren at (904) 247-6341 or email ywarren@jaxbchfl.net.

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Chinese Premier Li Qiang meets with visiting U.S. Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Aug. 29, 2023. [Photo/Xinhua]

Chinese Premier Li Qiang met with visiting U.S. Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo on Tuesday in Beijing, calling on both sides to enhance mutually beneficial cooperation.

Li said the economic and trade relations between China and the United States are mutually beneficial and win-win in nature. Politicizing economic and trade issues and overstretching the concept of security will not only seriously affect bilateral relations and mutual trust, but also undermine the interests of enterprises and people of the two countries, and will have a disastrous impact on the global economy.

Noting that China is the largest developing country and the United States is the largest developed country, Li said the two sides should strengthen mutually beneficial cooperation, reduce friction and confrontation, and jointly promote world economic recovery and cope with global challenges.

Li said a sound and stable China-U.S. relationship benefits both countries and the world, and China is glad to see that the United States has recently repeatedly said it is committed to returning to the agenda set by the two heads of state in Bali.

"Mutual respect, peaceful coexistence and win-win cooperation are the right ways for China and the United States to get along. We hope that the U.S. side will work with China to take more practical and beneficial actions to maintain and develop bilateral relations," he added.

Li said China is willing to strengthen dialogue and cooperation with the United States on the economy and trade, and to promote the sound development of bilateral economic and trade relations. He said he hopes that the United States will work with China in the same direction.

China is actively advancing its high-level opening-up and making efforts to provide a world-class, market-oriented business environment governed by a sound legal framework, Li said. The country is also working to ease market access further, treat foreign companies in the same manner as domestic firms, and safeguard and promote fair competition, he said, adding that China will only open its doors even wider to the outside world.

Raimondo said that the Biden administration supports China's economic development and its improvement of people's livelihoods, has no intention of containing China's development, does not seek to decouple from China, is willing to maintain communication and normal economic and trade relations, and is willing to promote the steady development of bilateral relations.

The U.S. side also stands ready to strengthen cooperation with China on artificial intelligence, climate change work, and combating fentanyl, Raimondo added.
It didnt take a whole lot for us to figure out the 21-year-old white man who gunned down three Black people in Jacksonville had racist motives. His gun was covered in swatstikas and racial slurs. However, he also donned a badge representing Rhodesia: an inspiration for white supremacist domestic terrorists for quite some time now.



Ryan Palmeter stormed into a Dollar General Saturday afternoon and fatally shot Angela Michelle Carr, Jerrald DeShaun Gallion and Anolt Joseph A.J. Laguerre Jr. Authorities say he first stalked the campus of HBCU Edward Waters University before arriving at the convenience store. Before the massacre, police say Palmeter told his father to scan his computer where kept several manifestos containing clear messages that he wanted to kill Black people because he hated them.

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Upon the country being placed under the rule of the Black majority, the unit was disbanded and the white Scouts killed many of the Black members they recruited after moving their operations to South Africa.

The Impact and Legacy

An online movement began in 2017 paying homage to the Selous Scouts, according to The Times. What began as a string of archival Instagram posts of the Scouts turned into a small fandom. The Western Outlands Supply Company, listed as a hate group by the Southern Poverty Law Center, sold merchandise with racist, right-winged language that had been advertised as inside jokes.

One buyers of Make-Rhodesia-Great-Again merch was none other than Dylann Roof, the white supremacist who was sentenced to death row after executing nine Black churchgoers in Charleston, South Carolina. Police recovered a manifesto Roof had written titled The Last Rhodesian and an image of him donning the Rhodesian flag on a shirt.

Even before Roof embarked on his rampage, other prominent white supremacists used Rhodesia as a way to promote their hatred. According to NBC News, Rhodesia was also a point of reference for pro-Jim Crow lawmakers in the South. KKK Grand Wizard David Duke referenced the war in 1983 writing, in South Africa, in Zimbabwe (once proud Rhodesia), and right here at home it is as if we are terrorized by a fly, a miserable, tiny housefly, per the Anti-Defamation League.

There are still white folks who think Black people are a burden to their mere existence. That belief has turned into a breeding ground for violence.

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Becky Sprinkle sings a tune during the weekly Creekside Band and friends jam at the Spring Mill Nature Center Wednesday, Aug. 23, 2023.

Every Wednesday, from noon to 3 p.m., the Creekside Band and friends jam at the Spring Mill Nature Center, playing what many would call "mountain music" or bluegrass.

Becky Sprinkle plays guitar, harmonica, and sings, Marty Mundy, of Williams, is on fiddle, and Randy Tuell, of Paoli, chimes in on dulcimer. The three make up Creekside Band, and plenty of other musicians comprise the "and friends" portion. The band has been playing at Spring Mill since 2017.

Last Wednesday, there were eight other musicians participating and several people came to listen. Sprinkle said she comes from a musical family, and began singing with her father and his friends when she was 2 years old on their farm in Tell City. Sprinkle is a retired teacher and guidance counselor at Bedford North Lawrence High School.

Stephen Dickey plays the fiddle during a tune at the Spring Mill Nature Center Wednesday, Aug. 23, 2023.

Stephen Dickey brought his fiddle to join in the music. Stephen and his wife Nancy have been playing at the jams for about two years, according to Sprinkle. The two are recent recipients of the Heritage Fellowship Award given by Indiana University Traditional Arts. Stephen is the son of musical legend Lotus Dickey. Sprinkle said she met Stephen Dickey when she was 3 years old, and he was playing with his father at a barn dance in Perry County.

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"Electric light bulbs strung across the barn and hay bales to sit on, with my father dancing and me on his shoulders," Sprinkle recalled.

A large group of musicians jam in the Spring Mill Nature Center Wednesday, Aug. 23, 2023. Becky Sprinkle can be seen at left in the picture.

The Creekside Band used to play in the lobby and dining room of the Spring Mill Inn, then moved outside during the pandemic. The group later was asked to play at the Spring Mill Nature Center, and have been there ever since.

Sprinkle said it's a good location, as it is very accessible to older people. Sprinkle's father, who is 94, often drives from his farm on the Ohio River to come and sing along.

The Creekside Band will be playing at the Spring Mill Candlelight Tour in the village Sept. 23, and the Spring Mill 1800s Music Weekend Oct. 14 and 15.

This article originally appeared on The Herald-Times: Jamming along with Creekside Band at Spring Mill Nature Center
FILE PHOTO: A view of the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant seen from the nearby Ukedo fishing port in Namie town

FILE PHOTO: A view of the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant seen from the nearby Ukedo fishing port in Namie town

TOKYO (Reuters) -Japan threatened on Tuesday to take China to the World Trade Organization (WTO) to seek a reversal of Beijing's ban on all of its seafood imports after the release of treated radioactive water from the stricken Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant.

Foreign Minister Yoshimasa Hayashi told reporters that Japan would take "necessary action (on China's aquatic product ban) under various routes including the WTO framework".

Filing a WTO complaint might become an option if protesting to China through diplomatic routes is ineffective, Economic Security Minister Sanae Takaichi said separately.

The comments came as Japanese businesses and public facilities continued to receive harassment calls from phone numbers with the +86 Chinese country code, with many reporting callers complaining of the Fukushima water release.

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Fukushima prefectural government and public facilities in the prefecture have received about 3,000 such calls, Kyoto News reported, quoting the prefecture governor.

The power plant operator Tokyo Electric Power has received about 6,000 such calls to date, local media reported, and the government said it was seeking help from telecommunications companies to block the calls.

An increasing number of landline phone users are requesting to block foreign numbers, said a spokesperson at NTT Communications, a Nippon Telegraph and Telephone unit. NTT and other phone companies including KDDI and SoftBank Corp are discussing measures following the government's request.

NTT East, which serves the eastern half of the country including Fukushima, said it had set up a customer service centre on Tuesday specifically for harassment calls from overseas, in response to the government's plea.

"It is extremely regrettable and concerning about the large number of harassment calls that have likely come from China," Trade Minister Yasutoshi Nishimura said during a news conference. He said that according to the people of Fukushima some calls were even going to hospitals.

"Human life is at stake now. Please stop the calls immediately," Nishimura said.

The minister said the government was gathering information on the reports of movements to boycott Japanese products in China and would work with business leaders to address the situation.

Japan is also conducting interviews with local travel agencies to gather information about the status of travel to Japan from China after media reports that some Japan-bound tours have been cancelled.

"Some travel agencies responded that they had received cancellation requests while others said they had received inquiries about the safety of food and beverages, and the possibility of postponing or cancelling tours," Japan's Land Minister Tetsuo Saito told reporters.

The move came after China earlier this month lifted pandemic-era restrictions on group tours for Japan and other key markets.

(Reporting by Kantaro Komiya, Mariko Katsumura, Sakura Murakami and Chang-Ran Kim; Editing by Simon Cameron-Moore, Jacqueline Wong and Mark Potter)
(Bloomberg) -- Japan may take World Trade Organization action against China, which banned all Japanese seafood imports in response to Tokyos release of treated wastewater from the wrecked Fukushima nuclear plant into the ocean.

Most Read from Bloomberg

Japanese Foreign Minister Yoshimasa Hayashi said Tuesday the country will take any necessary action at the WTO or other frameworks over Chinas move. He also confirmed that a brick was hurled at the Japanese embassy in Beijing, adding to reports of harassment faced by Japanese people and businesses in China.

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The Chinese government has staunchly opposed Tokyos plan to discharge treated water from the ruined Fukushima nuclear plant even though Japan says its safe  a view backed by the International Atomic Energy Agency. Japan started the release last Thursday, sparking retaliation from Chinese authorities.

Read more: Public Outrage Mounts in China Over Japan Nuclear Wastewater

Theres also been anger and calls for boycotts of Japanese products on Chinese social media. The embassy and schools across China have experienced some sort of harassment, according to a Japanese government official who declined to be named discussing the sensitive issue.

People threw eggs at the embassy building in Beijing, the official said. Others held impromptu protests outside. The mission received several nuisance calls, and received an anonymous delivery of two baskets of chrysanthemums, according to the official. The flowers in Japan are associated with funerals.

Schools attended by Japanese children were also targeted. A passerby threw stones at a school in Qingdao, while in Shanghai, a man urinated at the front gate of a Japanese school, the official said.

Hayashi echoed calls from Prime Minister Fumio Kishida to China to take action to calm the situation.

When asked about the brick incident during a regular press briefing Tuesday, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin said Beijing has ensured the safety and lawful rights of foreign nationals.

Why Japan Is Releasing Fukushima Water Into the Sea: QuickTake

--With assistance from Allen Wan and James Mayger.

Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek

2023 Bloomberg L.P.
President Volodymyr Zelensky held a call with Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida on Aug. 29.

The two discussed extending the grain corridor as a way to export Ukrainian agricultural products following Russia's unilateral termination of the Black Sea Grain Initiative and repeated attacks on Ukrainian ports.

Zelensky added that they also discussed the Ukraine Recovery Conference, which is scheduled to be held in Japan next year, according to Zelensky. The 2023 Ukraine Recovery Conference was held in London in June.

Zelensky expressed his appreciation to Kishida that the Group of 7 (G7) declaration on security guarantees for Ukraine was adopted during the Japanese presidency of the G7.

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The G7 security guarantees are meant to be an international framework aimed at bolstering the long-term security of Ukraine and the countrys ability to defend itself against Russian aggression, present and future.

In return, the G7 declaration says that Ukraine will pass judicial and economic reforms in order to improve democratic governance.

Zelensky also thanked Kishida for his support of Ukraine's peace formula.

Zelensky presented the 10-point peace formula, supported by many Western countries, in November last year. It includes the restoration of Ukraine's territorial integrity, the complete withdrawal of Russian troops from Ukraine, and the release of all prisoners of war and deportees.

Read also: Japan expands sanctions on Russia, including ban on hybrid, electric vehicles

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[Source]

A college dropout has risen to become the Japans latest billionaire after successfully building a global noodle empire.

Money in udon: Takaya Awata, the 61-year-old founder and CEO of Toridoll Holdings, currently owns a 48% stake in the company valued at $1.1 billion.

Toridoll, known for its "udon noodle" Marugame Seimen restaurant chain, has seen its shares surge by nearly 50% this year as the pandemic receded and dining out regained its allure. As of last Friday, the companys shares were trading at 3,930 Japanese yen (approximately $27).

Awatas rise: Awata delved into the restaurant business immediately after dropping out of Kobe City University of Foreign Studies in 1985. At just 23, he launched his first grilled chicken eatery, though success initially eluded him.

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More from NextShark: Asian Family Business Opened 35 Years Ago Burned Down by Suspected Arsonist

An epiphany struck during a visit to his father's hometown in Kagawa prefecture, famed for its bustling udon noodle shops. The sight of customers queuing for the chewy, wheat-flour delight stirred something within Awata. In his words, it was an "emotional experience of food" that led him to pursue his own noodle venture.

When he eventually established Toridoll in 1990, Awata ensured that it focused on freshly cooked, aromatic servings instead of using mass-produced noodles. Toridoll's affordable self-service restaurants dubbed the Marugame Seimen serve customers in an interactive manner, allowing them to witness the preparation process.

More from NextShark: Soda chanh muoi: The perfect summer drink from Vietnam that only takes 4 simple ingredients to make

Beyond Japan's borders: Under Awatas leadership, Toridoll expanded internationally, establishing its first Marugame Udon restaurant in Hawaii in 2011. The expansion continued across China, Indonesia and beyond.

In 2021, the opening of the first Marugame Udon restaurant in London highlighted Awata's philosophy of catering to local tastes. During the pandemic, his food truck provided free udon noodles to underprivileged children and healthcare workers in hospitals. Awata's mission, as he put it, lies in "discovering hidden things and offering them as new value to generate joy in our customers."

Reaching for the world: Toridoll has since expanded into a global noodle powerhouse, boasting close to 1,900 eateries across the globe. The culinary empire encompasses not only udon noodle joints, but also an array of offerings such as spicy Chinese rice noodles, ramen and tempura.

More from NextShark: Over 260 Civil Rights Groups Demand Congress Fight Coronavirus Racism

With an emphasis on authenticity and sensory experiences, Awata's vision of freshly cooked, open-kitchen fare has resonated with diners around the world. The company is now eyeing further expansion, allocating over $650 million for mergers and acquisitions across Europe, Asia and Greater China. Within the next five years, the noodle empire is looking into bumping its eateries to over 5,500 and raising its revenue to $2 billion.

More from NextShark: Worlds first openly gay prince says his parents sought brain surgery to make him straight
In the last election cycle, South Carolina's white conservative, Christian base presented a united front in its support for former President Donald Trump . But as the state shows growing signs of a five-person primary contest, will the competition lead to stratifications and split that core voting bloc?

It's possible, if the state's biggest political event for conservatives can be taken at face-value.

Nearly 2,000 attendees packed the Anderson Sports and Entertainment Center Monday to find like-minded conservatives at U.S. House Rep. Jeff Duncan's annual fundraising event, the Faith & Freedom BBQ.

In its twelfth year, the event has often served as a political launchpad for national candidates.

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Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis , slated to be the keynote speaker, changed his schedule at the last minute to prepare for Hurricane Idalia's anticipated landfall. Duncan said "he was where he was needed to be."

However, his wife, Casey DeSantis , made the trip to South Carolina in his absence.

DeSantis, who was invited by far-right lawmakers to South Carolina even before he announced his candidacy, has long enjoyed popularity among the Upstate's evangelical base, and the presence of popular Christian leaders, including Bob Jones University staff, was emblematic of where the influential voting bloc stood.

But fellow GOP presidential hopeful Senator Tim Scott 's appearance had attendees split over who best represented their Christian values.

SC politicos react to RNC debate: Haley strong on foreign policy. Scott fails to 'stand out.'

Scott and DeSantis compete on similar platforms

In 2016, white, evangelical Christian voters were split among Donald Trump (34%), Ted Cruz (26%), and Marco Rubio (21%), a Pew Research Center analysis showed. The stakes in 2024 are different. Trump leads the field by more than 40 percentage points.

Still, the South Carolina primary is six months away, and more candidates are likely flock to the state after Labor Day in an attempt to out-maneuver former President Donald Trump's looming popularity.

Most Republican candidates have already found common ground in anti-diversity, inclusion and equity policies in schools as well as anti-transgender rhetoric.

During the event, Both Scott and Casey DeSantis spoke about education policies, the southern border as well as the "weaponization of the federal government" and the need to course-correct regulations passed by the Democrats and the Biden administration.

U.S. Sen. Tim Scott (S.C.) speaks during Jeff Duncan's 12th Annual Faith and Freedom BBQ in the Civic Center of Anderson Monday, August 28, 2023. State of Florida First Lady Casey DeSantis, spoke in place of original keynote speaker Florida Governor and presidential candidate Ron DeSantis.

But some voters felt that though they aligned with Scott on macro-economic policies, DeSantis' track record in Florida made him the candidate to root for in this cycle.

For Anderson County resident James Williams, 75, and his wife Judy, 77, the social direction of the country was the determining factor for their support.

"I believe that the family unit is the background about the backbone of our society," Williams and his wife said, adding that they were concerned about the curriculum in schools and parents rights. "We think parents and their children are a unit and our society is not authorized to intervene in the parent-child relationship."

During his time in the Governor's mansion, DeSantis has signed a plethora of controversial legislation ranging from banning gender-affirming care for youth under the age of 18, nixing funding for diversity, equity and inclusion programs in state colleges, along with banning teachings of "critical race theory" and gender identity.

This year, DeSantis also signed a six-week abortion ban similar to South Carolina's recently passed legislation.

In Anderson, Casey's surrogate appearance also demonstrated a unique thread of spousal power that traditionally does well with evangelical conservatives.

The Florida Gov. and first lady tug at voters concerned about the preservation of the family unit by mounting their image as a young family, gripped by fears of crayons being scribbled on the walls of the Governor's mansion and working toward protecting their own children from the so-called "woke" agenda.

Elva Cobb Martin, an Anderson-based Christian writer, also credited DeSantis' Florida blueprint for garnering her support. She claimed gender-affirming care for minors was not "healthcare" and the state's ban was the right message.

Florida First Lady Casey DeSantis makes a keynote speech at the Jeff Duncan 12th Annual Faith and Freedom BBQ in the Civic Center of Anderson Monday, August 28, 2023. State of Florida First Lady Casey DeSantis, spoke in place of original keynote speaker Florida Governor and presidential candidate Ron DeSantis.

Meanwhile, Scott's biggest draw was that he "was a strong Christian." Cobb Martin said she would be happy if Scott were to win the ticket. But she believes DeSantis has a better shot.

An Aug. 10 presidential straw poll conducted by the Upstate grassroots Republican bloc saw a close battle between DeSantis and Scott for second place behind Trump. The poll also gave weight to a leaked DeSantis campaign memo, where he saw the South Carolina junior senator as a rising threat on the campaign trail.

Then there's Trump.

Cobb-Martin said Christians needed to know how Trump didn't always adhere to Biblical values.

For instance, Cobb Martin said most Christian voters did not know Trump was responsible for appointing Richard Grenell, a former ambassador and acting Director of National Intelligence, as the first openly gay man appointed to serve at a Cabinet-level position. She also said Trump expressed his support for gay rights to a conservative LGBTQ+ group back in Dec. 2022 in Mar-a-Lago.

"He just confirmed his full support for the gay agenda and I can never ever support that," she continued.

Trump's apparent support for gay rights may not make a difference if continues to poll as the most electable candidate.

Paul Gilbert, 75, a Saluda County resident, wore a Trump 2024 hat as he carried two glasses of sweet tea. Gilbert said he came to the barbecue to support Duncan and admired both Scott and DeSantis.

"They're both really nice guys. But I've been Trump supporting and all these indictments have only hardened that support," Gilbert said.

DeSantis's nomination, he said, would just be Trump 2.0.

"The media is gonna hammer him, the deep state is gonna hammer him, big tech is gonna hammer, so you may as well have Trump run," he said.

As for Scott, Gilbert admired the North Charleston native as his senator, but his feelings for the senator have not been the same since Scott decided to endorse Alaska Senator Lisa Murkowski in last year's senate race against a Trump-picked candidate.

"I thought 'What happened? What is wrong with you?' She's flips depending on what day it is," Gilbert continued. "I just can't get over that."

U.S. Rep Jeff Duncan closes with a prayer at his 12th Annual Faith and Freedom BBQ in the Civic Center of Anderson Monday, August 28, 2023. State of Florida First Lady Casey DeSantis, spoke in place of original keynote speaker Florida Governor and presidential candidate Ron DeSantis.

GOP voters: 'Any Republican is better than Joe Biden'

Despite the internal tussle, GOP primary voters, turned off by "Bidenomics," are still months away from deciding who they want to back as the nominee. Many voters consistently say they will vote for any Republican who won the ticket, including former S.C. Gov. Nikki Haley, who was also campaigning in SC in Indian Land.

The reluctance to put a stamp of approval on one candidate isn't just a grassroots issue.

Duncan, who said Upstate SC was essential for Republican candidates to build a case for their candidacy, has remained relatively quiet about who he supports. He told the Greenville News Monday that it is likely that he may not even endorse anyone until late February 2024.

"I'm friends with so many people in this race, so I may just stay neutral all the way until after the South Carolina primaries," Duncan said.

Five of South Carolina's seven U.S. House representatives have thrown their weight behind their favored candidates. In the Upstate, Fourth Congressional District's William Timmons, R-S.C., announced he was part of former President Donald Trump's S.C. Leadership team. Meanwhile, 5th Congressional District Rep. Ralph Norman, R-S.C., has rallied support for Haley.

Duncan said he has served with most of the candidates currently in the primary field.

"My friendships with all these candidates mean more to me than endorsing and ticking a lot of them but one off. I'd rather have those friendships when I go to my grave."

Devyani Chhetri is the state government watchdog reporter. You can reach her at dchhetri@gannett.com or @ChhetriDevyani on Twitter.

This article originally appeared on Greenville News: SC evangelical voters said DeSantis, Scott represent their values
The New Jersey Attorney Generals office is investigating the fatal shooting of a man who family and authorities say was mentally ill, after police said he lunged at them with a knife.

Andrew Jerome Washington was fatally shot by Jersey City police officers on Sunday, Jersey City Mayor Steve Fulop said during a news conference Monday.

The original call to emergency responders went to emergency medical services personnel, the mayor said, who then requested assistance from the police department.

The call came to the police department from the Jersey City medical center that was already on the scene, and they felt it was unsafe to enter or to engage with Mr. Washington directly at that time, Fulop said.

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Police were speaking to Washington through the door before they entered, and he was saying things that were very erratic, the mayor said.

Police spoke with him while outside his residence for close to an hour, according to the mayor, then opened the door to his apartment.

They entered and they were charged by Mr. Washington with a knife in hand, and they used force, deploying both a firearm and a taser, Fulop said.

The knife Washington held appeared to be a 6- to 8-inch kitchen knife, according to James Shea, the director of public safety for Jersey City.

Washingtons family has publicly questioned the police response.

Why did they bust in there like he was a criminal, like he was threatening someone? He was in his own place, Washingtons aunt, Lisa Mendez, said to CNN affiliate WCBS. Hes bipolar, he has a mental condition We called the crisis center, because we noticed he wasnt taking his medication, he wasnt acting normal.

Paramedics came. Instead of calling the crisis center, they called the SWAT team. We said, Why? Please, dont hurt him, and we know its a mental condition, hes having a mental crisis, Mendez told CBS.

Shea described Washington as mentally ill.

Mr. Washington is sick, Shea said. He is not responsible for his actions. Hes not bad  hes sick. Hes ill. Hes mentally ill. But that does not make him less dangerous, and thats the problem with these jobs for us.

Shea also described a previous incident where police used force against Washington.

In 2011, Washington was the victim of a shooting and force had to be used against him, Shea said. During that incident, the citys mobile crisis team also originally responded to the call but called the police department to the scene because they could not interact safely with him, Shea said.

The New Jersey AGs office has body camera footage of Sundays incident, the mayor said, and urged the AG to expedite his review and release the footage as quickly as possible.

I think when you look at the incident and the circumstances, youd be hard-pressed to say that the medical center and the Jersey police department could have acted differently in this situation, the mayor said.

The investigation is ongoing, according to the AGs office, which said no other information is available at this time.

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MIDDLESEX, N.J. (WPIX)  When you think of where alligators call home, theres a good chance Florida and Louisiana may come to mind.

But probably not New Jersey.

Yet that is exactly the case in Middlesex County, where an alligator was spotted in the Ambrose Brook in Victor Crowell Park. The police department and crews have been searching for the reptile. Its been keeping a low profile, and people are going there with the hope of getting a glimpse.

You can tell by the people out here. They are excited. We finally made the news for something, said Francis Sweeney.

In the house, we were hearing the helicopter. So, we are like lets go take a walk, Patty Phillips said.

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Tropical depression forms in Atlantic as Idalia barrels toward Florida

Authorities estimate the alligator is about 3 to 4 feet long. The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection Conservation Police is working to capture and relocate it.

Search crews have taken a few trips by boat but have not been successful. Police are urging people to keep away from the alligator if they see it and to not try to catch it.

The brook is a favorite for ducks, who may not be too fond of their visitor. Longtime residents in the area wonder if someone dumped the gator there.

Its kind of sad because the alligator, obviously, was someones pet, and they just threw it away. There are plenty of places to hide here  It could be at home here for a while, said Middlesex resident Rich Thomasey, referring to the marshlands and tree logs that could help disguise the alligator.

Authorities closed the park to visitors on Monday afternoon.

Victor Crowell Park will be closed to the public for a minimum of 72 hours or until such time that the alligator is deemed to no longer be a threat, Middlesex Borough Police Chief Matthew Geist said Monday afternoon.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KFOR.com Oklahoma City.
Zhao Leji, chairman of the National People's Congress (NPC) Standing Committee, presides over the first plenary meeting of the fifth session of the 14th NPC Standing Committee at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, Aug. 28, 2023. [Photo/Xinhua]

The Standing Committee of the 14th National People's Congress (NPC), China's top legislature, started its fifth session Monday in Beijing.

Zhao Leji, chairman of the NPC Standing Committee, presided over the session's first plenary meeting.

Lawmakers reviewed a draft revision to the Law on Administrative Reconsideration, a draft foreign state immunities law, and a draft amendment to the Civil Procedure Law, all submitted by the NPC Constitution and Law Committee to the session.

In its reports to the session, the NPC Constitution and Law Committee said the three drafts are already relatively mature, and suggested the session adopt them.

Lawmakers also deliberated a draft revision to the Company Law, a draft value-added tax law, a draft preschool education law, a draft academic degrees law, and a draft revision to the Law on Penalties for Administration of Public Security.

The session reviewed a draft decision on extending a trial program allowing lawyers from the Hong Kong and Macao special administrative regions to obtain licenses and practice in nine mainland cities in the Greater Bay Area. Lawmakers also deliberated an extradition treaty with Ecuador.

They heard a report on the implementation of the plan for national economic and social development since this year, a report on the execution of budget since this year, a report on the financial transfer payment, a report on the work for ensuring national food security, and a report on the work against domestic violence.

Lawmakers also deliberated a report on deputy qualifications and personnel-related bills.
MIDDLESEX, N.J. (WPIX)  When you think of where alligators call home, theres a good chance Florida and Louisiana may come to mind.

But probably not New Jersey.

Yet that is exactly the case in Middlesex County, where an alligator was spotted in the Ambrose Brook in Victor Crowell Park. The police department and crews have been searching for the reptile. Its been keeping a low profile, and people are going there with the hope of getting a glimpse.

You can tell by the people out here. They are excited. We finally made the news for something, said Francis Sweeney.

In the house, we were hearing the helicopter. So, we are like lets go take a walk, Patty Phillips said.

ADVERTISEMENT Advertisement

Tropical depression forms in Atlantic as Idalia barrels toward Florida

Authorities estimate the alligator is about 3 to 4 feet long. The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection Conservation Police is working to capture and relocate it.

Search crews have taken a few trips by boat but have not been successful. Police are urging people to keep away from the alligator if they see it and to not try to catch it.

The brook is a favorite for ducks, who may not be too fond of their visitor. Longtime residents in the area wonder if someone dumped the gator there.

Its kind of sad because the alligator, obviously, was someones pet, and they just threw it away. There are plenty of places to hide here  It could be at home here for a while, said Middlesex resident Rich Thomasey, referring to the marshlands and tree logs that could help disguise the alligator.

Authorities closed the park to visitors on Monday afternoon.

Victor Crowell Park will be closed to the public for a minimum of 72 hours or until such time that the alligator is deemed to no longer be a threat, Middlesex Borough Police Chief Matthew Geist said Monday afternoon.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WesternSlopeNow.com.
Samuel Joseph Wurzelbacher, better known as political activist Joe the Plumber, is dead at 49.

Wurzelbacher gained prominence in 2008 when he met then-candidate Barack Obama in Ohio during the future presidents 2008 presidential campaign. The Republican activist told Obama he was interested in opening a plumbing business and asked how the Democratic candidates tax plan would impact that venture. Wurzelbachers on-camera questions, along with his everyman demeanor, earned him the Joe the Plumber moniker.

He built that persona into a brand that netted a book deal and led to a flirtation with the country music business, according to Politico. Wurzelbacher ran for office in 2012 but was soundly defeated by Democrat Marcy Kaptur in the race to represent Ohios 9th Congressional District.

One thing he wasnt was a licensed plumber, according to the Columbia Dispatch, which reported Joe the Plumber never completed an apprenticeship, nor was he a member of Local 50 of the United Association of Plumbers. That union backed Obama in 2008.

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In 2016, Wurzelbacher expressed enthusiasm over Donald Trumps White House candidacy.

Hes a winner. Hes made billions, he told Reuters Hes dated beautiful women. His wife is a model. Thats not to sniff at.

Wurzelbacher said Trump was running in an era of when many people are afraid to speak their minds.

They are afraid of being labeled a racist or a homophobe, he lamented.

Wurzelbacher married in 2011 and had three children with his wife Katie, according to a fundraising page set up in 2022 after his family said he was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. His death was confirmed on that page Sunday.

Joe passed away earlier this morning and entered our Lords heavenly home, that message said. Joe had been too sick/in too much pain to get out of bed lately and his goal was to get Katie and their kids moved to her hometown surrounded by family.

Wurzelbacher also had an adult son from a previous relationship, according to Reuters.

_____
Top intelligence officials know theyre at risk of losing a 9/11-era provision that allows them to spy on foreigners without a warrant.

So, in testimony in front of the Senate Judiciary Committee in June, they leaned into one of the few bipartisan issues remaining in Congress to win support for the program  stopping the flow of fentanyl into the country.

Sen. Josh Hawley , a Missouri Republican, had another target on his mind  the FBI.

Why would we reauthorize it given your track record of abuse and illegal improper surveillance and political targeting, Hawley said. Why would we do that? Why would this body ever do that?

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Hawley is one the FBIs most vocal critics in Congress. Over the past year, hes claimed the agency has an anti-Catholic bias, that it is engaged in a politically motivated attempt to take down former President Donald Trump and has accused it of covering up information from a congressional investigation into Biden.

As U.S. intelligence agencies turn to Congress for permission to keep collecting the communications of foreigners who use U.S. communication systems  a provision called Section 702 in the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act  the souring relationship between Republicans and the FBI could be standing in the way.

Intelligence officials have long said that Section 702 is a vital tool to protect the homeland against a slew of national security threats, from drug traffickers and terrorist organizations to nation states threatening U.S. critical infrastructure.

A U.S. intelligence official told McClatchy and the Kansas City Star that 60% of the material in the presidents daily briefs rely on information collected using Section 702  and that 70% of the countrys counterproliferation efforts, monitoring the movement and construction of weapons of mass destruction, rely on the tool.

Our ability to identify new threats would be severely diminished, the intelligence official said when asked what would happen if Congress were to fail to reauthorize 702. Our ability to provide the same level of insight in our analytic products would be degraded significantly. Our ability to understand and track what our near peers are doing would be very much hampered. And our ability to reproduce this in some other way would never be matched  it is just not going to be possible. It will be the difference between preventing an attack and investigating it after the fact.

But opponents of the legislation warn that 702 provides law enforcement with a backdoor to monitor the communications of American citizens  a concern that has been consistently raised by civil liberties advocates on the left ever since the provision was passed into law in 2008.

Republicans have become critics of the law, as well, objecting to its use during an investigation into whether foreign nationals were communicating with the Trump campaign during the 2016 election. While FISA tools were used in that investigation, Section 702 was not.

Last month, an independent intelligence advisory board found that the sheer volume of Section 702 activity led to inappropriate use of the tool by the FBI, identifying three occasions in which FBI officers intentionally misused the surveillance power. But the board found no evidence of willful misuse of these authorities by FBI for political purposes. A recently unsealed FISA court filing found that, in 2021, the FBI conducted roughly 278,000 queries of information on U.S. citizens that the bureau characterized as accidental, a number that has decreased in recent years.

Now, the Biden administration and a bipartisan group of lawmakers has agreed the tool requires reform before Congress votes for reauthorization. But it is unclear whether Hawley would be satisfied with reform, or whether he seeks to end the use of Section 702 outright. His office declined to comment for this article.

Finding 60 votes

When Hawley was campaigning against former Democratic Sen. Claire McCaskill in 2018, he said he had privacy concerns about the law.

I support giving national security officials the tools they need to aggressively fight terrorism and keep Americans safe, but we have to be vigilant in reviewing this practice to avoid unintended consequences that impact the privacy of Americans, Hawley said at the time.

McCaskill that year helped provide a deciding vote to help the legislation pass  giving her thumbs up while battling the flu.

Intelligence officials say that the law allows them to collect information they would otherwise never find out, including how the materials used to make fentanyl get from China into the United States, leading to a record number of drug overdoses over the past five years.

According to the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services, 70% of the overdose deaths in 2022 were caused by non-heroin opioids, the category that includes fentanyl. Overdose deaths have increased 60% from 2017, when non-heroin opioids made up 48% of overdose deaths.

While Hawley has raised concerns about the increase of fentanyl, his legislative efforts have mostly focused on how the drug comes over the southern border instead of its origins in China. Last year, he co-sponsored a bill that would increase the minimum prison sentence for people who were found guilty of trafficking fentanyl, and he wrote a letter to the DEA that focused on how the drug is coming across the southern border.

National security and intelligence officials told McClatchy that the main avenues for smuggling fentanyl into the country are indeed through the U.S. southern border. But Section 702 has allowed the intelligence community to understand and monitor the entire supply chain of the drug, from its precursor chemicals  largely produced in China  to their shipment and processing in Mexico, where cartels then smuggle them up north.

The ability to monitor that process from start to finish provides U.S. intelligence and law enforcement officials with more opportunities to disrupt the trade of a drug that, compared with other narcotics, is exceptionally easy to produce and to hide.

702 is really the only source of information that allows us to stay dynamic in thwarting the threat, the intelligence official said.

Other lawmakers, also concerned about how the FBI has abused the law, have put forward legislation that would require reform in order for the reauthorization of the bill.

Sen. Jerry Moran, a Kansas Republican who is the ranking member of the Senate committee that determines how much money Congress gives to the Department of Justice, has filed legislation that would require the FBI to establish guardrails for their use of the law.

As a member of the Senate Intelligence Committee, I recognize and value the importance of Section 702 as a tool to keep Americans safe and secure, and I use my position to ensure proper oversight, Moran said in a written statement. Sensible amendments to safeguard the civil liberties should be considered, and as the lead Republican appropriator for the FBI, I have used my position to make certain the Bureau is following its own standards to comply with FISA.

Moran is among a group of bipartisan senators who appear to be aiming to reauthorize the legislation with significant reforms, to assuage the concerns of lawmakers angry at the FBI.

Sen. Eric Schmitt, a Missouri Republican, indicated that he wants reforms for the FBI before he supports reauthorization.

Its evident that the FBI has been weaponized, and its far past time for reforms after the FBI has repeatedly used their power to go after political opponents, Schmitt said. Ill be watching this closely as it moves forward.
FILE - Ahmad Al Aliwi Alissa is led into a courtroom for a hearing, Sept. 7, 2021, in Boulder, Colo. Prosecutors said Wednesday, Aug. 23, 2023, that Alissa, accused of killing 10 people at a Boulder supermarket in 2021, is competent for trial. (AP Photo/David Zalubowski, Pool, File)

BOULDER, Colo. (AP)  A judge on Tuesday granted a defense request to hold a hearing with experts to determine if a mentally ill man charged with killing 10 people at a Colorado supermarket in 2021 is mentally competent to be prosecuted for the mass shooting.

Prosecutors revealed last week that experts at the state mental hospital determined that Ahmad Al Aliwi Alissa is now mentally competent to proceed in the case. However, his lawyer, Kathryn Herold, exercising the defense's right to challenge the finding, requested a hearing with testimony from both prosecutors and the defense to be held before Judge Ingrid Bakke rules on whether she believes he is competent. Bakke was required to schedule the hearing under the law but she denied Herold's request for another evaluation to be done.

Herold told Bakke that all the evaluations done on Alissa  including the most recent one that found him competent  say he is profoundly mentally ill. She also said she does not believe her client, who has schizophrenia, is competent.

Robert Olds, whose niece Rikki Olds was killed in the shooting, said he held guarded excitement that the case would move forward and was grateful that Bakke denied the second evaluation.

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My hope is that the restoration hearing will prove he is competent, he said.

Alissa is charged with murder and multiple attempted murder counts in the March 22, 2021, shooting at a crowded King Soopers store in Boulder, about 30 miles (50 kilometers) northwest of Denver. He has not yet been asked to enter a plea.

The case against him has been on hold for nearly two years after his attorneys first raised concerns about his mental competency  whether he is able to understand court proceedings and communicate with his lawyers to help his own defense.

District Attorney Michael Dougherty told Bakke that Alissa is consistently taking his medication, including a new, unidentified drug, noting that doctors were able to get a court order to forcibly medicate him. However, he said hospital staffers believe Alissa's competency is tenuous and asked Bakke to encourage the state hospital to keep Alissa there rather than being returned to the Boulder jail, where he cannot be forcibly medicated or get the same level of care.

Dougherty said the hospital has already made inquiries about returning Alissa to the jail. Bakke, who seemed surprised, said Alissa must remain at the hospital for now since she has not ruled on his competency following the latest report.

Alissa's hospital reports are not public under Colorado law, but lawyers have sometimes provided limited details about his mental health in court filings. In February, Alissa's lawyers confirmed he had been diagnosed with schizophrenia and said he had a limited ability to interact with others.

He speaks in repetitive non-responsive answers and cannot tolerate contact with others for more than a very brief period, they said at the time.

Competency is a different legal issue than a plea of not guilty by reason of insanity, which involves whether someones mental health prevented them from understanding right from wrong when a crime was committed.

With the victims and families of those killed eager to see the case move ahead, Bakke agreed to set a hearing to determine if there was enough evidence for Alissa to stand trial on Nov. 14. Dougherty argued that could proceed even if Alissa is deemed incompetent.
A judge on Tuesday overturned decades-old murder conviction in the shooting deaths of two 14-year-old boys in 1989, eliciting cheers from a packed courtroom.

Francisco Benitez, 52, maintained his innocence in a motion for post-conviction relief, referencing that he had an alibi for the April 28, 1989, killings of Prudencio Cruz and William Sanchez near the corner of Potomac and Harding avenues on the citys West Side and pointing to witnesses who identified different suspects.

This is not normal, said Joshua Tepfer, one of Benitezs attorneys, of the volume of overturned convictions in Cook County. Its an epidemic. Its a human rights violation.

Judge Sophia Atcherson vacated the conviction during a hearing at the Leighton Criminal Court Building, citing evidence pointing to Benitezs innocence presented during a hearing earlier this year. Cook County prosecutors did not drop the charges and asked for time to review the case, so Benitez still faces murder charges in the teens deaths.

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Meanwhile, Atcherson allowed Benitez to be released on a personal recognizance bond and electronic monitoring, meaning he did not have to put up money for release. She said she took the serious nature of charges into account, but also the new evidence brought forth in the post-conviction hearings.

She also declined to order monetary bail, citing the new law abolishing cash bail set to take effect next month. The Illinois Supreme Court in July ruled that the measure meant to foster equity in the criminal justice system does not violate the state constitution.

Even though the law has not gone into effect, I think it would be disingenuous for the court to set monetary bond at this point, she said.

Family members in the gallery yelled Hallelujah! as Atcherson read her decision. After the hearing, Benitezs mother Betty Benitez tearfully said shes happy to have her son back.

Its been a long road, she said.

Benitez, who was 18 years old when Cruz and Sanchez were killed, has spent 34 years in prison.

His motion for post-conviction relief described the two victims as churchgoing kids who were steps from their home on the way to the corner store.

Their deaths are a tragedy, the motion said. When Francisco Benitez was wrongfully arrested, charged, and convicted of that heinous crime, another tragedy occurred.

The motion argues that Benitez was with family friends at the time of the shooting, and that witnesses came forward to point the finger at different suspects, members of a street gang that controlled the street. The witnesses signed sworn statements that said they were sitting on a radiator in the front window of their apartment and watched the men, whom they knew, walk toward the boys and kill them.

In overturning the convictions, Atcherson said the eyewitness testimony was first and foremost in the courts mind.

Further, the defense attorneys presented testimony from a former Chicago gang officer who said in a sworn statement: (T)his is the one case in my entire Chicago Police Dept career that has bothered me and think we got the wrong guy.

The motion also alleged that the detectives on the case, Jerome Bogucki along with partner, Raymond Schalk, had a history of misconduct, and were found liable by a federal jury of manipulating eyewitness identifications.

mabuckley@chicagotribune.com
Front pages for the Marion County Record's latest weekly edition are displayed on a window at its offices, Monday, Aug. 21, 2023, in Marion, Kansas. Local police raided the newspaper's offices and home of its publisher, bringing the small central Kansas town to international attention. (AP Photo/John Hanna)

Kansas authorities must destroy all electronic copies they made of a small newspaper's files when police raided its office this month, a judge ordered Tuesday, nearly two weeks after computers and cellphones seized in the search were returned.

The Aug. 11 searches of the Marion County Record's office and the homes of its publisher and a City Council member have been sharply criticized, putting Marion, a central Kansas town of about 1,900 people, at the center of a debate over the press protections offered by the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution.

Attorney Bernie Rhodes, who represents the newspaper, said a judge ordered authorities to hand over those electronic records and destroy any copies they have of them along with all photographs that officers took during the raids.

The local prosecutor and sheriff agreed investigators shouldnt keep that evidence, but Rhodes insisted on a court order to document it. It wont be clear what files were on the drive until Rhodes gets a copy.

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Authorities returned the computers and cellphones they took during the raids after the prosecutor decided there was insufficient evidence to justify their seizure. A few days later the newspaper learned from court documents about the thumb drive with an electronic copy of thousands of files taken from its computers. It wasnt disclosed in the initial search warrant inventory.

It's not clear what additional steps authorities might take. Neither city officials nor the Kansas Bureau of Investigation, which is looking into reporters actions, are saying much.

City Council members refused to discuss the raids at their meeting last week, and the mayor didnt answer text message questions Tuesday about whether the raids will be on the next agenda. A spokeswoman for the KBI said its impossible to predict how long that agencys investigation will take.

Insurance companies for the city and the county have hired lawyers to prepare for possible lawsuits, including one promised by the newspapers publisher.

Supporters of the small Kansas newspaper can now order T-shirts emblazoned with the Marion County Records defiant headline SEIZED but not silenced that led its front page in the first edition after the raids. The plain black shirts feature the headline in block letters across the front along with the date of the raids.

The Kansas Press Association organized the T-shirt sale to show support for the newspaper. Executive Director Emily Bradbury said proceeds from the $24.49 shirts and $40.49 hoodies and other items that are supposed to be ready next week will go to the Kansas Newspaper Foundation that supports publications like the Marion County Record across the state.

The raids came after a local restaurant owner accused the newspaper of illegally accessing information about her. A spokesman for the agency that maintains those records has said the newspaper's online search that a reporter did was likely legal even though the reporter needed personal information about the restaurant owner that a tipster provided to look up her driving record.

Police Chief Gideon Cody didn't respond to an email seeking comment Tuesday. He said in affidavits used to obtain the search warrants that he had probable cause to believe the newspaper and City Council member Ruth Herbel, whose home was also raided, had violated state laws against identity theft or computer crimes.

The newspaper's publisher Eric Meyer has said the identity theft allegations simply provided a convenient excuse for the search after his reporters had been digging for background on Cody, who was appointed this summer.

Legal experts believe the raid on the newspaper violated a federal privacy law or a state law shielding journalists from having to identify sources or turn over unpublished material to law enforcement.

Video of the raid on the home of publisher Eric Meyer shows how distraught his 98-year-old mother became as officers searched through their belongings. Meyer said he believes that stress contributed to the death of his mother, Joan Meyer, a day later.
Banks and insurance companies trying to keep the public in the dark about their business dealings with Donald Trump ran into a ray of legal sunshine on Tuesday, after a judge ruled that he wouldnt seal records in the run-up to the New York Attorney Generals upcoming trial against the real estate mogul.

A handful of firms associated with Trump made a last-ditch effort to hide documents that detailed the way they unwittingly became part of the Trump Organizations alleged scheme to inflate assets. But the judge, Arthur F. Engoron, ruled thataside from information like the home addresses of certain employees and bank account numbersthe public has a right to see the documents and communications.

The former president is just 34 days away from heading to civil trial in New York City, where his personal finances will be put under a microscope while the states AG tries to bleed his corporation dry over the way it routinely overstated its holdings on official documents.

How a Small Court Decision May Have Dismantled the New York AGs Case Against the Trumps

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But with that trial around the corner, the companies that kept lending him hundreds of millions of dollars for business deals are trying to quietly slink away into the shadowsand hide the paperwork that shows how they played along.

Zurich American Insurance Company, WSFS Bank, Ladder Capital and others earlier this month asked the judge overseeing the case to seal documents that detailed the way they communicated with the Trump Organization while they evaluated its assets.

Some of these records form the backbone of AG Letitia James $250 million lawsuit against the Trumps, purportedly showing how the real estate mogul and the family members he made executives got away with minimal scrutinyby asserting fantastical financial numbers that werent examined carefully. Had they been, auditors and loan officers would have realized that Trump was easily doubling and tripling the value of property to snag better bank loans and insurance policies.

Zurich, for its part, claimed some documentswhich had already made their way into the court docket as evidencecontain highly-sensitive, non-public proprietary information about Zurichs insurance business, including Zurichs highly protected underwriting guidelines and competitively sensitive financial information.

Meanwhile, lawyers for WSFS Bank complained that journalists have been trying to reach one of their employees over his role in a business lifeline tied to Trumps estate north of New York Citya failed development project that he nonetheless valued as if it were a success when he donated the land to conservation and got a massive tax break.

One employee who has already been publicly linked to the Seven Springs loan receives unwanted media inquiries every time the case appears in the news, which he finds disruptive and distressing, the bank complained earlier this month.

The AG pushed back in court documents, citing the need in a democratic society for the American public to have access to ongoing court battles. Her lawyers also quoted legal precedent that neither the potential for embarrassment or damage to reputation, nor the general desire for privacy, constitutes good cause to seal court records.

On Tuesday afternoon, Judge Engoron said hed allow the companies to hide personal information, but he sided with the AG that most of the documents should stay in the open.

Here, the non-parties have failed to demonstrate a compelling interest in favor of wholesale sealing that outweighs the publics right to access and the presumption in favor of open judicial proceedings, Engoron wrote.

Read more at The Daily Beast.

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A federal jury in Kansas City returned guilty verdicts Monday for two men accused of drug-trafficking and premeditated murder, including the October 2015 killing of a government witness.

Shawn Deuce Burkhalter, 34, and Joshua T Nesbitt, 29, stood through a 21-day trial in a long-running federal case that came to a close in the Western District of Missouri. Among the findings of the jury were guilty convictions on two counts of murder, conspiracy to distribute cocaine and marijuana and violent crimes related to the illegal use of firearms.

Federal prosecutors announced the verdict Monday, saying Burkhalter and Nesbitt face life in prison without the possibility of parole.

The verdict comes after prosecutors alleged at trial that Burkhalter, of Kansas City, and Nesbitt, of Mississippi, were involved in the drug trade starting in 2008 until February 2018.

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Both fatally shot Danny Lamont Dean with an AR-15 while robbing him of cocaine in September 2015, the jury found. They were also convicted in the Oct. 4, 2015, killing of Anthony Dwayne Johnson, which prosecutors alleged was carried out by Nesbitt on Burkhalters orders.

The killing of Johnson was a deliberate act, prosecutors said, that was meant to prevent him from testifying before a federal grand jury or speaking to law enforcement.

Other crimes they were found guilty of included witness tampering and the robbery of a Kansas City business in September 2015.

Prosecutors say six other co-defendants have pleaded guilty to crimes stemming from the criminal conspiracy. All await sentencing.

Burkhalter and Nesbitt likewise have yet to be sentenced. Prosecutors said a date would be set following the completion of an investigation by the U.S. Probation Office.
KANSAS CITY, Mo.  A Kansas City, Missouri man and a Mississippi, man were convicted by a federal jury Monday for their roles in a drug-trafficking scheme that included two murders.

Shawn Burkhalter, also known as Deuce, 34, of Kansas City, and Joshua Nesbitt, also known as T, 29, of Crowder, Mississippi each were found guilty of two counts of murder resulting from the use of a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence and a drug-trafficking crime, and one count of murdering a potential witness.

Kansas City security guard charged for sexually assaulting two women

Burkhalter and Nesbitt also each were found guilty of one count of conspiracy to distribute cocaine and marijuana, one count of possessing cocaine with the intent to distribute, one count of possessing marijuana with the intent to distribute, one count of robbery, two counts of discharging a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence and a drug-trafficking crime, one count of brandishing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence, one count of being felons in possession of a firearm, one count of conspiracy to commit witness and evidence tampering, and one count of evidence tampering.

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Additionally, Burkhalter was found guilty of one count of witness and evidence tampering.

Under federal statutes, Both are subject to life in federal prison without parole.

Evidence introduced during the trial indicated that Burkhalter and Nesbitt participated in a scheme to distribute cocaine and marijuana from 2008 to Feb. 20, 2018.

Tenants frustrated as elevators frequently break at KCK apartments

On Sept. 10, 2015, court records say Burkhalter and Nesbitt stole cocaine from Danny Lamont Dean, and in the process of that robbery, shot and killed Dean with a Rock River Arms AR-15, 5:56-caliber semi-automatic rifle.

On Oct. 4, 2015, Nesbitt and others stole marijuana from Anthony Dwayne Johnson, and in the process of that robbery, Nesbitt shot and killed Johnson with the same Rock River Arms AR-15, 5:56-caliber semi-automatic rifle, all of which was at the direction of Burkhalter.

Both of those murders were committed willfully, deliberately, maliciously, and with premeditation and malice aforethought, and in the perpetration of, and attempt to perpetrate, a robbery, as charged in the indictment. The indictment further charged that Johnsons murder was committed as part of a plot to prevent him from testifying before a federal grand jury or federal court or communicating with a federal law enforcement officer.

The witness tampering conspiracy also included a murder threat against another person, to cause that person to help conceal the AR-15 rifle used to murder Johnson and Dean, so that it could not be used as evidence. Conspirators attempted to hide the murder weapon from federal investigators.

Burkhalter and Nesbitt robbed a Kansas City business in September of 2015, brandishing the same AR-15 rifle.

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Following the presentation of evidence, the jury deliberated for six hours before returning guilty verdicts to the judge, ending a trial that began on Aug. 7.

Sentencing hearings will be scheduled at a later date.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 4 Kansas City WDAF-TV | News, Weather, Sports.
LAKE GENEVA, Wis.  U.S. Supreme Court Justice Amy Coney Barrett told attendees at a judicial conference in Wisconsin on Monday that she welcomed public scrutiny of the court. But she stopped short of commenting on whether she thinks the court should change how it operates in the face of recent criticism.

Barrett did not offer any opinion, or speak directly about, recent calls for the justices to institute an official code of conduct.

Barrett took questions from Diane Sykes, chief judge of the 7th U.S. Circuit Court, at a conference attended by judges, attorneys and court personnel. The event came at a time when public trust in the court is at a 50-year low following a series of polarizing rulings, including the overturning of Roe v. Wade and federal abortion protections last year.

Barrett did not mention the ethics issues that have dogged some justices  including conservatives Clarence Thomas and Samuel Alito and the liberal Sonia Sotomayor.



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Public scrutiny is welcome, Barrett said. Increasing and enhancing civics education is welcome.

Barrett, 51, said the immediacy and amount of information that is available has fed the increased scrutiny of the Supreme Court.

Youre not waiting once a day to read your print newspaper, she said. Youre seeing things come across your phone all the time, and youre seeing pictures of people.

Barrett recalled that before the birth of the internet when she was a law clerk, people routinely visited the Supreme Court and asked justices on the court to take their pictures or for directions because they did not know who they were.

People just didnt recognize who the justices were, Barrett said. I think thats better. I dont think justices should be recognizable in that sense.

But she said that critique of the court is nothing new.

Justices and all judges are public figures and public criticism comes with the job, Barrett said. Im still kind of new at this.



Barrett was a circuit court judge in the 7th Circuit from 2017 to 2020 until she was appointed to the Supreme Court. She graduated from Notre Dame Law School, in northern Indiana, and taught law there from 2002 until her appointment to replace Ruth Bader Ginsburg on the Supreme Court.

Ive been at it for a couple of years now, Barrett said. Ive acquired a thick skin, and I think thats what other figures have to do. I think thats what all judges have to do.

She said there is both good and bad to the court being in the news so much recently.

To the extent that it engages people in the work of the court and paying attention to the court and knowing what the courts do and what the Constitution has to say, thats a positive development, she said. To the extent that it gives them misimpressions, thats a negative development.

Barretts public appearance came after Justice Elena Kagan, at a conference in Oregon earlier this month, publicly declared her support for an ethics code for the Supreme Court. But she said there was no consensus among the justices on how to proceed, suggesting the high court is grappling with public concerns over its ethics practices.

Justice Samuel Alito, during an interview with the Wall Street Journal opinion pages in July, said Congress lacks the power to impose a code of ethics on the Supreme Court. That made him the first member of the court to take a public stand against proposals in Congress to toughen ethics rules for justices in response to increased scrutiny of their activities beyond the bench.

Justice Brett Kavanaugh, the only other justice to make public comments since the courts term ended in June, largely avoided discussing ethics during an appearance at a judicial conference in Minnesota last month.

The Associated Press obtained thousands of pages of documents that show how justices spanning the courts ideological divide have lent the prestige of their positions to partisan activity  by headlining speaking events with prominent politicians  or to advance their own personal interests, such as book sales, through college visits. And reporting from ProPublica earlier this year revealed Justice Clarence Thomas participated in lavish vacations and a real estate deal with a top Republican donor.

Barrett described the court as warm, with justices sharing lunches together.

Theres warm personal relations, she said. Theres an effort to accommodate one another.

The conference where Barrett spoke was for the 7th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, which covers Wisconsin, Illinois and Indiana, where Barrett previously lived. The meeting was held in Lake Geneva, Wis., a resort area 80 miles northwest of Chicago.
This aerial photo taken on July 13, 2023 shows farmers harvesting rice in Nanchang county, Jiangxi province. [Photo/Xinhua]

China has proposed eight tasks to ensure national food security, including strengthening the country's food security system and capacity-building, increasing support for agricultural protection, and accelerating the construction of a modern food industry and circulation system, according to a recent report from the State Council.

The report on work to ensure national food security was submitted to the fifth session of the Standing Committee of the 14th National People's Congress, China's top legislature, for deliberation on Monday.

The report said that efforts would be made to implement a strategy of sustainable farmland use and the innovative application of agricultural technology to increase farmland productivity.

In recent years, China's food production has been expanding steadily, with adequate market supply and generally stable operations. The country's ability to prevent and defuse major risks and challenges has been improving, and its level of food security has been raised significantly, according to the report.

China's annual grain output has topped 650 billion kg for eight consecutive years. Last year, the country's total grain output was 686.55 billion kg, and its per capita food supply was 486.1 kg, which was well above the internationally recognized food security line of 400 kg, according to the report.
Supreme Court Justice Amy Coney Barrett said Monday that she welcomes public scrutiny of the court.

Public scrutiny is welcome, Barrett said during a judicial conference Monday in Wisconsin, according to The Associated Press. Increasing and enhancing civics education is welcome.

The conference was attended by judges, attorneys and court personnel. Questions were moderated by Diane Sykes, chief judge of the 7th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, and come at a time when trust in the high court is low following the overturn of Roe v. Wade last summer.

The Supreme Court has been under intense scrutiny after a series of ProPublica reports accused conservative Justices Clarence Thomas and Samuel Alito of accepting tens of thousands of dollars worth of gifts and perks from wealthy Republican donors. Justice Sonia Sotomayor was also accused of using her influence to pressure libraries and colleges into purchasing her books.

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Barrett did not mention the specific issues faced by her fellow justices, but she did say the immediacy and quantity of information available has affected peoples perception of the court.

Youre not waiting once a day to read your print newspaper, she said, the AP reported. Youre seeing things come across your phone all the time, and youre seeing pictures of people.

The Associated Press contributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Kalsada, the modern Filipino restaurant that was one of Pioneer Press readers favorites last year, is closing after less than 18 months.

The restaurant quietly served its last brunch over the weekend, and the last day for dinner will be Friday, Sept. 15.

Were very thankful to the neighborhood, the community, chef and owner Leah Raymundo said on Tuesday. And especially to my team. They shared so much love to the neighborhood.

Raymundo and business/life partner John Occhiato also run Cafe Astoria and Stella Belle just off West 7th Street, and they opened Kalsada in spring 2022 in the former Augustines spot on Selby Avenue.

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Both personally and professionally, the couple had an especially tough winter, they said, and the economics of the restaurant were becoming tenuous.

Filipino food still feels niche in the Twin Cities, Occhiato said, so some people saw the menu as a one-time experience rather than a regular hangout. And the intense snow in January, February and March made already-slow months untenable.

The restaurant was also selling much more food than drinks, a category whose profit margins are typically higher. Compared to their business plans, the restaurant wasnt making good bar revenue, Occhiato said.

Plus, last November, their son was rushed to the emergency room and diagnosed with aplastic anemia, a condition in which the bodys bone marrow doesnt produce enough or any new blood cells. He couldve died that day, Occhiato said, which put things in perspective.

He spent three to four months in the hospital, as did Leah, and it made it difficult to focus on the restaurants, Occhiato said. It made the restaurants seem frivolous, kind of; that there are more important things.

Luckily, Raymundo said, hes doing better now after several transfusions and surgeries but is still in and out of clinics.

So when Raymundo and Occhiato received a call out of the blue asking if they wanted to sell the restaurant, they were not interested at first but soon realized the proposal made sense. Theyre finalizing details this week, Occhiato said, so more details should be available soon.

As Kalsada winds down for now  Occhiato said theyre putting a pin in the project, which could eventually reopen elsewhere in a smaller space  the couple is focusing on their other restaurants. At Cafe Astoria right now, theyre running a campaign for Shine Bright for Kids, a fundraiser for the cancer and blood disorders program at Childrens Minnesota, where their son received treatment.

Raymundo and Occhiato are also hopeful St. Paul city leaders can get creative in boosting family-owned restaurants and local businesses, particularly during festivals and events. For restaurants that operate on such thin margins, like Kalsada, more support couldve been lifesaving.

When the city is promoting itself outside the Twin Cities, the small businesses are what give the city its personality, Occhiato said. Not just the arenas and the skyline.

Kalsada: Go before it closes Sept. 15; 1668 Selby Ave., kalsada-stpaul.com/

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Where were shopping, we dont need roads. Or maybe we do  but more pedestrian-friendly ones.

Thats the basic thought some, including elected city leaders, have for the future of Country Club Plaza, Kansas Citys historic outdoor shopping mall. On Monday evening, area interest group Urban Lab KC unveiled early concepts for remaking the Plaza to become a more walkable place as its leaders hope to kickstart community discussion around the topic.

On the table is a proposal for closing off portions of some high-traffic streets  specifically Mill Creek Parkway and intersections at Broadway Boulevard, Pennsylvania Avenue and Central Street  to vehicular traffic entirely.

Also being pitched is a shared space concept where cars continue to drive through the heart of the Plaza under a redesign thats easier for pedestrians to navigate.

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Roughly 125 people came out to hear the idea and offer their takes during a public meeting in the Kansas City Public Librarys Plaza branch at 48th and Main streets. Some expressed belief that the Plaza has been in decline over the years, while others were hopeful for a shopping experience without worrying about vehicular traffic.

Roughly 125 people gathered Monday in Kansas City Public Librarys Plaza branch at 48th and Main streets for a presentation by Urban Lab KC, a group that wants to see the Country Club Plaza be more pedestrian-friendly.

Chad Grittman, of Urban Lab KC, emceed the event. He told attendees his community group is composed of residents, including architects and designers, who love Kansas City and want to have a conversation about the Plaza. He acknowledged there are a lot of opinions on both sides of the fence.

Were just here to talk about it, Grittman said.

Specific details were fairly light on Monday. Renderings depict a tree-lined center of the shopping district with a fountain in the middle of Broadway and Nichols.

A cost analysis of such a project was not presented. By the estimate of Urban Lab KC, about 115 parking spaces could be removed from the street to make the design a reality.

In presenting the idea, representatives from Urban Lab KC said the changes could improve the local economy, reduce crime and increase civic pride. They also pointed to walking-friendly design trends in Boston and Minneapolis  and Seville, Spain, the sister city that inspired the Plazas iconic Giralda Tower and the design of the entire shopping district.

Along with the presentation was a brief panel discussion that included Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas. The mayor expressed support for the idea, saying next steps should involve conversations with key stakeholders, engagement with residents and assessments of the potential impact on the economy and traffic.

Notably absent from Mondays panel was representation of the owners and operators of the Plaza. A spokesperson reached by The Star on Monday declined to comment on the concept.

Speaking to news reporters after the community meeting, Lucas, 39, recalled getting braces at the Plaza Medical Building when he was a teenager, saying he recalled more foot traffic there in the 1990s.

The mayor also referenced a major blow to the shopping district that came last year when fashion retailer Nordstrom, Inc. bailed on its plan to open a Plaza store. Groundwork was already laid as Nordstrom had promised to anchor the west side of the shopping center by late 2023.

Nobody wants to break the Plaza. We want more people there, Lucas said.

I see an empty dirt pit right now, the mayor added of the Nordstrom issue. And I see real concern. I see the fact that we dont have the same type of pedestrian traffic that we did when I got my braces put on in the 1990s as a real concern.

Among those watching the presentation Monday was newly-seated Councilman Johnathan Duncan, whose 6th District includes the Plaza and neighborhoods to the south. He called the idea an exciting concept that could reclaim some of the streets for pedestrian traffic.

The Plaza used to be a destination for an experience, Duncan said. And I think this helps to achieve that.
No surprise, I guess, in a country where you can be murdered for flying a pride flag or shot because you knocked on the wrong door, that youre nobody until youve gotten some death threats. Or at a minimum, a bunch of hurtful, hateful outpourings from strangers.

Still, I refuse to act like its normal that Kari Newell, the Marion, Kansas, restaurant owner whose cockeyed complaint inspired local cops to try and shut down the Marion County Record earlier this month, has since then received more than 600 please die soon-type messages.

Yes, these are from folks who apparently agree with me that Newell was mistaken in seeing anything criminal about the journalistic act of fact-checking an accurate report that shed been driving without a license for 15 years after a DUI.

But the messages she shared with The Stars Eric Adler are no less appalling either because she wasnt right on the law, which after all it isnt her job to know, or because vitriol is now so ubiquitous. Eat s***, you spiteful drunk c***, said one of them. Other Newell correspondents called her a pig f***er and the DEVIL.

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Its not news that weve lost the vocabulary as well as the will to disagree civilly, but it is up to all of us to knock it off.

I just finished reading a biography of Thomas More, who often prayed to love his enemies, and told even the same Henry VIII who was having him beheaded for staying true to his Catholic faith that he hoped theyd one day meet merrily in heaven.

OK, so most of us are no Thomas More. But this piece of advice, from the wise father of a childhood friend of mine, about how to respond to those folks who for whatever reason are not our favorites, should be doable: Just say hi, hed counsel us, laughing, but dont say, How are ya?  (Thanks, Mr. Haskett.)

To those non-favorites we have never met and never will, saying even less than hi is another solid option. As is voicing the strongest possible disagreement minus the slurs.

What impact do messages like the ones sent to Kari Newell have? Besides adding to the general toxicity and sense of aggrievement, they only make the martyred recipient more convinced. Which is why the other thing about Newells predicament that could not be more typical of dug-in America in 2023 is that she doesnt seem to have learned anything from this no doubt hideous experience, or see any link between her own overreaction and the one shes currently experiencing. I dont think I can be angry at myself for standing up for myself.

Instead, even now, Newell seems to see herself as some kind of Diogenes of the Plains, speaking unwelcome truths to the rascals all around her: A lot of people see straightforward honesty as abrasive, she told The Star. People arent familiar with hearing the truth.

So her truth is that the only wrongdoing was committed by the Marion County Record when they checked out their tip about her. Somehow, even though the Record ultimately decided against writing a story, shes sticking to the story that the paper was hellbent to try to destroy my name.

Only, hellbent Eric Meyer, the Record editor whose 98-year-old mother died the day after their home was raided, says that he does not blame Newell either, but on the contrary sees her as someone who was a convenient catalyst for the police chief who conducted the raid and the magistrate judge who signed off on it.

There are a lot of great things about life in a small Midwestern town like Marion, and like the one I grew up in. But because the people who live there are no different from those anywhere else, being thanked by officials or business owners for even thinking about holding them accountable is not one of them.
LAKE CHARLES  Kayla Giles was tried in the court of public opinion before her trial even began, and her trial attorney was negligent in not asking for a change of venue, according to Giles' current attorney.

Jane Hogan on Tuesday argued Giles' appeal of her Jan. 29, 2022, conviction in the murder of her estranged husband, Thomas Coutee Jr. before a three-judge panel of the 3rd Circuit Court of Appeal.

Giles shot Coutee once in his chest during a child exchange in the Walmart parking lot on Coliseum Boulevard in Alexandria. She claimed she shot him in self defense because she was scared of him.

Kayla Giles' attorney told the 3rd Circuit Court of Appeal on Tuesday that extensive media coverage, a tainted jury pool and the lack of an intimate partner violence expert at her trial were grounds for her conviction in her estranged husband's 2018 murder to be vacated.

He died at the scene.

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A jury rejected that claim and found her guilty of second-degree murder and obstruction of justice. She is serving a life sentence plus 30 year.

The case was prosecuted by the Louisiana Attorney General's Office after the Rapides District Attorney's Office recused itself not long after the shooting because DA Phillip Terrell once had represented Coutee's father in another legal matter.

Hogan called coverage by The Town Talk and KALB "extensive" and said it hindered the ability for Giles to get a fair trial in Rapides Parish. Her trial attorney, George Higgins III, should have requested that the trial be moved.

Coverage wasn't just about the shooting, but was about Giles herself, said Hogan. She referenced stories about the Pineville house where the couple used to live being destroyed by fire and Giles' October 2020 arrest on identity theft and other charges.

But Judge Shannon Gremillion asked Hogan if Higgins' strategy had been to hold the trial in Alexandria, that he had stated he wanted the trial held locally.

Hogan agreed, but still said he should have asked for a change in venue because the entire pool of potential jurors was tainted. She said many had stated they knew about the case from the local news and some had said they already decided she was guilty.

She said only four people who ended up as jurors said they had no knowledge of the case.

She mentioned three people in particular, but J. Taylor Gray, representing the Louisiana Attorney General's Office, said all of those people were rehabilitated through questioning or said they could be fair and follow the law.

Hogan also said Giles' trial defense team should have consulted an expert on intimate partner violence because of the couple's history.

Sentencing day: Kayla Giles sentenced to life plus 30 years for slaying of Thomas Coutee Jr.

Thomas Coutee Jr. slaying: Wife served court order before deadly Louisiana Walmart shooting

Giles and Coutee were in the middle of a divorce and, just a day before the slaying, Giles was served with court papers because Coutee wanted a new trial concerning custody of their daughter, who turned 2 on the day he was killed.

Hogan said Giles told the detective interviewing her after the shooting no fewer than 20 times that she was scared of Coutee.

Gremillion again questioned Hogan, asking her if it was true there were no police reports filed by Giles regarding alleged abuse.

Hogan said there were two reports filed by Coutee. He wasn't alleging abuse, she said, but he wanted a record during a "contentious" child custody case.

She also said Giles moved into a condo because Coutee was stalking her and that Coutee was known to carry a weapon. She said the best evidence at trial was the surveillance video that showed the shooting from a distance.

But Gray said there was no evidence to prove Giles was abused, only her own "self-serving statements" after her arrest. He contended the best evidence at trial wasn't the surveillance video, but instead were the records pulled from her cellphone and laptop that showed her intention.

"She had been planning this for weeks," said Gray.

He told the panel there was nothing to show the jury pool was tainted by media coverage and no record of abuse.

Gremillion asked him if there was evidence that Giles was the aggressor.

Gray responded that testimony and forensics evidence showed Giles was outside of her vehicle when Coutee was shot, so Gremillion asked him what he thought the video showed.

Gray said, while difficult to see, it showed Coutee casually walking toward Giles' vehicle. There was no "lunge" or anything that would show Coutee was charging Giles, he said.

Gremillion then asked Gray what he thought about Hogan's post-verdict motion for a new trial being denied by 9th Judicial District Court Judge Greg Beard before Giles' sentencing.

Hogan filed that motion and another one for a post-verdict acquittal. Both were denied.

Gray said he viewed Hogan's motion for a new trial as the "defense attempting to get a second bite at the apple," bringing up claims that Giles was abused after her "stand your ground" defense failed.

The trial court did not make a mistake in denying that motion, he said.

Hogan, in her rebuttal, said there at least should have been a hearing so that the intimate partner violence expert could have testified.

As far as her motion for a new trial, Hogan said it could be sent back to the district court for a hearing regarding the pretrial media coverage.

In addition to Gremillion, judges Van H. Kyzar and Sharon D. Wilson heard arguments. A decision was not immediately issued.

This article originally appeared on Alexandria Town Talk: Kayla Giles' attorney appeals conviction in Thomas Coutee Jr. murder
Celebrity parents share heartfelt and bittersweet moments while dropping their kids off at college for the 202324 school year.

Its that time of year again when young adults throughout the country head off to college. Whether entering as first-year or returning students, the moment can be joyous, tearful, and heartfelt for both the students and their parents. Just ask Kevin Hart , Michael Strahan , Nicole Ari Parker , and other celebrity parents who have shared intimate glimpses of the bittersweet milestone of sending off their college students on social media. While there have been understandable tears, much joy and pride have also been reported.

Kevin Hart says goodbye to daughter Heaven

Eniko Hart, Kevin Hart, Kaori Mai Hart, Kenzo Kash Hart, Heaven Hart, and Hendrix Hart at the opening of Kevin Harts QSR Hart House held at Hart House Hollywood on May 7, 2023, in Los Angeles. (Photo by Gilbert Flores/Variety via Getty Images)

In an Instagram post on Friday featuring a photo of Hart, his children, and his wife surrounding his daughter Heaven in her dorm room, he reckons with how shes blossomed into adulthood.

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Im not crying [youre] crying, the comedian wrote. So proud of my daughter.I cant even say little girl anymore because you have blossomed into the most amazing young woman ever!!!!!

He added that God knows how proud he is of his daughter and wished her well.

Fly Heav Fly.The world is yours!!!!! My baby girl is off to college, he said.

He also admitted, I cried in the car!!!

Michael Strahan moves his daughter into Duke University

Sophia Strahan, Michael Strahan, and Isabella Strahan attend Nickelodeon Kids Choice Sports 2019 at Barker Hangar on July 11, 2019, in Santa Monica, California. (Photo by Gregg DeGuire/WireImage)

Last week, Strahan shared a series of photos on Instagram from his daughter Sophias move-in day at Duke University. The photos include a shot of the proud dad beaming on the campus green with his daughter, a pic of Strahan getting into the Duke spirit, and another of the pair taking a requisite trip to Target. In the posts caption, the Good Morning America co-host reflects on how time has flown by.

Cant believe how time has flown by, and Im so proud of her. I know shes going to crush college life!! #DukeDad, he wrote.

In the caption, Strahan also teased that he has another college drop-off coming up.

I know shes a twin so @isabellastrahan pics coming soon! Lol, he said.

Nicole Ari Parker drops her daughter off at Howard University

(Left to right) Sophie Kodjoe, Nicole Ari Parker, Boris Kodjoe and Nicolas Kodjoe attend Boris Kodjoes 50th Birthday Party at Hotel Bel-Air on March 11, 2023, in Los Angeles. (Photo by Arnold Turner/Getty Images for Boris Kodjoe)

In an Instagram reel set to the song Isnt She Lovely by Stevie Wonder, Parker shared scenes from her and husband Boris Kodjoes daughter Sophies drop-off at Howard University last week. The reel featured a photo of Sophie and her brother Nico on their first day of school as young children as well as moments of the family moving Sophie into her dorm, including a heartfelt goodbye hug between the siblings.

I am so so proud of you. We miss you soooo much but we know you got this, the actress wrote.

She added some motherly advice, Get to class on time. Call me after.

A-Rod drops sends his eldest to Michigan State University

Alex Rodriguez sits alongside his girlfriend Jaclyn Cordeiro during the second quarter in game two of the Western Conference Semifinal Playoffs between the Los Angeles Lakers and the Golden State Warriors at Chase Center on May 4, 2023, in San Francisco. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)

On Monday, A-Rod shared a series of photos and videos from his daughter Natashas move-in day at Michigan State University on Instagram, including a shot of the former Yankees player waving goodbye from his car with a pouty face.

Left my heart in Michigan, A-Rod began in the caption.

He added, Dropping off @thenatasharodriguez at college was one of the hardest but most proud moments of being a father. Cant wait to watch her take on this big new chapter.

Natalia Bryant receives a special bouquet celebrating her first day back

Kobe Bryant poses with his family at halftime after both his #8 and #24 Los Angeles Lakers jerseys are retired at Staples Center on Dec. 18, 2017, in Los Angeles. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images)

Vanessa Bryants oldest daughter, Natalia, kicked off her junior year at the University of Southern California by receiving a special bouquet of blooms that happened to be signed by her late father, Kobe Bryant. According to People magazine, Natalia shared a picture of the sweet gesture in her Instagram story and included a snap of the note.

Happy First Day of School. Love you always, Dad, the heartfelt note read.



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Its a coincidence of the 2024 calendar and US history.

March 4, 2024, is the scheduled date to kick off what may be the most consequential of former President Donald Trumps four criminal trials, where hell answer federal charges in Washington, DC, that he illegally tried to subvert US democracy.

Trump says he was within his rights to contest the election.

The coincidence, as the historian Heather Cox Richardson points out in her newsletter, is that for most of US history, March 4 was Inauguration Day.

Thats the date the first Congress scheduled for George Washington to be sworn in as the nations first president in 1789. That first inauguration slid a bit to April 30 when the counting of electoral votes took longer than expected. But Washingtons second inauguration? March 4.

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Every subsequent inauguration for more than 100 years took place on March 4, with a few exceptions.

On a few years, in 1821, 1849, 1877 and 1917, when March 4 fell on a Sunday, inaugurations took place on March 5, according to the Library of Congress. In 2024, March 5 happens to be the planned date for Super Tuesday, the most consequential day in party primaries.

Inaugurations worth recalling

On his first inauguration date, March 4, 1829, the new, outsider president Andrew Jackson, Trumps favorite other than himself, opened up the doors of the White House to the public and a raucous party ensued, revelers trashed the place and Jackson had to escape out of a window.

On March 4, 1841, William Henry Harrison chose not to wear a hat or coat for his nearly two-hour inauguration speech in wet weather. After wearing wet clothes to receptions celebrating his inauguration, he developed pneumonia and died a little more than a month later. He is still the shortest-serving president and the first to die in office. His successor, John Tyler, was sworn in on April 6.

The rise of January 20

March 4 remained Inauguration Day until after the ratification of the 20th Amendment in 1933, which means the first person to be inaugurated on the current Inauguration Day of January 20 was Franklin D. Roosevelt, on his second inauguration in 1937.

The idea behind changing Inauguration Day was to shorten the so-called lame-duck period between Election Day and the start of a new administration. Today, these lame-duck periods are frequently marked by bursts of activity in Congress. It was during the longer lame duck in 1922 that a standoff over a ship subsidy bill sparked movement toward the 20th Amendment, according to the National Constitution Center.

Separately, and of more historical consequence, it was during the interregnum between the 1860 election and Abraham Lincolns inauguration on March 4, 1861, that South Carolina, Mississippi, Florida, Alabama, Georgia, Louisiana and Texas seceded from the US, sparking the Civil War. Several other states  Virginia, Arkansas, North Carolina and Tennessee  seceded after Lincolns inauguration.

Early in US history, states chose their own Election Day in the month leading up to the date when the Electoral College met. Since 1848, Election Day has changed from year to year  it is the first Tuesday after the first Monday in November in election years.

But Inauguration Day has always been set in stone in the Constitution. First as March 4, and now as January 20.

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The killer in a decades-old slaying of a woman in Massachusetts dubbed "The Lady of the Dunes"  whose maimed body was found on a Cape Cod beach in 1974, prompting countless theories about her death  was identified as her husband, prosecutors announced Monday.

Ruth Marie Terry (via FBI)

Ruth Marie Terry, 37, of Tennessee, was identified in October as the woman discovered nude on a beach in Provincetown on July 26, 1974. Terry was identified through investigative genealogy, according to the FBI in Boston.

Investigators said the case marked the oldest unidentified homicide victim in Massachusetts' history.

Authorities said that, although identifying her was a major break that helped them draw nearer to her killer, questions remained. Primarily, why was Terry  who had ties to Tennessee, Michigan and California  in Massachusetts when she was slain?

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Since the identification, Massachusetts State Police investigators learned that Terry married Guy Muldavin in 1973 or 1974, Cape and Islands District Attorney Robert J. Galibois said in a statement Monday. The couple traveled after their wedding, including stopping in Tennessee to see her family.

Police also learned that Muldavin returned from the trip in the summer of 1974 driving what was believed to be her vehicle and that he had also told people his wife had died, prosecutors said.

Terry's brother worked with Muldavin to try to find his missing sister, but Muldavin told him, "They had a fight during their honeymoon, and he had not heard from his wife again," prosecutors said.

"Based on the investigation into the death of Ms. Terry, it has been determined that Mr. Muldavin was responsible for Ms. Terrys death in 1974," the statement said.

Muldavin, who died in 2002, was also a prime suspect in the disappearance of a previous wife and his stepdaughter in the Seattle area in the 1960s, prosecutors said.

A flyer the FBI released about Terry's case said she died from a blow to the head, most likely weeks before her body was found. The left side of her skull had been crushed. No weapon was found at the crime scene, the flyer said.

Terry's body was discovered on a beach towel. She lay on half of it, as if shed been sharing it with a companion, according to a Provincetown website dedicated to her case. Her body was exhumed in 2000, the website said.

Terrys hands were missing, presumably removed by her killer so she can not be identified through fingerprints, and her head was nearly severed from her body, according to the FBI.

The notorious case generated national interest over the years and prompted theories about the brutal slaying. One of the theories is Terry worked as an extra in the movie Jaws, which was filmed on Marthas Vineyard in the summer of 1974.

Galibois, the district attorney, expressed his deepest condolences to Terry's family.

"Victims are never forgotten," he said.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un on Tuesday called on his Navy to be prepared for an invasion, as the United States and key allies hold military exercises Kim described as attempts to provoke nuclear war.

In a speech marking North Koreas Navy Day, Kim addressed the Navy Command, lauding service members work. He also stressed the importance of modernizing the Navy, in view of the enemies recent aggressive attempts and character of military actions, state-run media reported.

Kim raised concerns over a recent trilateral naval exercise conducted by the U.S., Japan, and South Korea. He also mentioned the recent summit at Camp David, which the countries leaders described as an inflection point in history, and during which the three countries pledged to continue conducting drills and to elevate defense collaboration, in light of Kims heightened threats of nuclear war.

He described the leaders as the gang bosses of their respective countries, according to state media.

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Currently, the United States and South Korea are in the middle of a 11-day annual training exercise, called Ulchi Freedom Shield (UFS). The exercise is being conducted from Aug. 21-31.

Kim has often referred to these annual drills as an invasion rehearsal. Washington has maintained that the drills are for defensive purposes, saying the exercise is designed to strengthen the combined defense posture and Alliance response capabilities based on scenarios that reflect diverse threats within the security environment.

In his speech, Kim described the U.S. as getting more frantic than ever and called on the Navy to fully arm the officers and men of the units and sub-units at all levels with our Partys Juche-oriented naval and underwater war methods and focus on developing new strategic and tactical plans for getting familiar with ever-changing patterns of naval warfare, state media reported.

The North Korean leader continued to warn of nuclear threats posed by the United States and its allies.

Owing to the reckless confrontational moves of the US and other hostile forces, the waters off the Korean Peninsula have been reduced into the worlds biggest war hardware concentration spot, the most unstable waters with the danger of a nuclear war, Kim said, according to state media.

The prevailing situation requires our Navy to put all its efforts into rounding off the war readiness to maintain the constant combat alertness, and get prepared to break the enemys will for war in contingency and carry out the military strategy of the Supreme Headquarters, he continued.

South Koreas Foreign Ministry said Kims language to describe the leaders of the U.S., South Korea and Japan was very rude, the AP reported. Spokesperson Lim Soosuk told reporters North Korea must immediately stop acts that raise tensions with reckless threats and provocation.

Cho Hyundong, South Koreas ambassador to the United States, said the three countries would not be deterred by Kims rhetoric, according to the AP.

The continued provocation and continued violation of multiple critical U.N. security resolutions by North Korea will only strengthen the trilateral security cooperation, Cho said.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
China-Africa security forum injects positive energy into global peace

10:41, August 29, 2023 By Chen Qingqing ( Global Times

The third China-Africa Peace and Security Forum reflects China's sincere support for peace and security development in Africa, and its efforts to help Africa escape the power plays of major countries, experts said, as China welcomed nearly 50 defense officials and military officers from African countries to participate in the forum last from Monday to Saturday.

Li Shangfu, Chinese State Councilor and Minister of National Defense, will deliver a keynote speech at the forum, which is being held under the theme "Implementing the Global Security Initiative [GSI] and Strengthening China-Africa Solidarity and Cooperation."

The forum comes after the just-concluded 15th BRICS Summit and the China-Africa Leaders' Dialogue held in Johannesburg.

The second China-Africa Peace and Security Forum was held via video link in July 2022, to which Chinese President Xi Jinping sent a congratulatory letter pointing out the direction for China and Africa to strengthen unity and cooperation and achieve common security.

"Establishing a peaceful and stable Africa is one of the seven key indicators of the African Union's self-determined Agenda 2063, which also serves as a standard for assessing Africa's development and modernization. However, in recent years, the African continent has been grappling with security challenges," Song Wei, a professor at the School of International Relations and Diplomacy at the Beijing Foreign Studies University, told the Global Times on Monday.

First, the Horn of Africa has witnessed regional conflicts, and counter-terrorism efforts in the Sahel region have been a top priority for the continent. And recently, Niger, a pivotal counter-terrorism focal point in the Sahel, experienced a military coup, highlighting the overall instability and insecurity across the continent, Song noted.

"Also, the resurgence of unilateralism and the intensification of geopolitical competition among major powers have made Africa a significant battleground for their rivalries. Such dynamics have had detrimental effects on Africa's security situation and overall development," she said.

China has always been a contributor and participant of Africa's peace and security. While fully respecting Africa's wishes and adhering to the basic norms of international relations, China has continuously intensified its involvement in Africa's peace and security affairs.

In the field of international peacekeeping, over 80 percent of Chinese peacekeepers are deployed in Africa. China has participated in 17 UN peacekeeping missions, dispatching over 32,000 personnel to Africa. Among the permanent members of the UN Security Council, China has sent the highest number of peacekeepers to the continent, according to media reports.

Since 2008, the Chinese military has dispatched 44 escort task forces to the waters of the Gulf of Aden and Somalia and conducted joint anti-piracy exercises with countries like Nigeria and Cameroon, contributing to maritime safety and regional stability.

In addressing regional hot spots, China has actively participated in international peace conferences related to the Sahel, South Sudan, and the Horn of Africa. In January 2022, China proposed the "Initiative of Peaceful Development in the Horn of Africa" and held the inaugural China-Horn of Africa peace conference in June 2022.

As the Russia-Ukraine crisis continues to escalate and regional conflicts emerge in Africa, uncertainties also continue to grow, making it necessary for China and Africa to keep the same or similar stance on safeguarding peace, some experts said.

"A peaceful external environment is a mutual need for both China and Africa. Only through peace can both sides prosper individually and collectively. This is a significant manifestation of the China-Africa shared destiny," Chinese military expert Song Zhongping told the Global Times on Monday.

Through the peace and security forum, China and African countries are expected to reach a political consensus of developing a broader international security perspective and a shared security concept while enhancing cooperation in the security field, some experts predicted.

"China will not interfere in the internal affairs of African countries, but we will assist African nations in building defensive military capabilities, and we are also willing to enhance collaboration with African countries on counter-terrorism and other non-traditional security matters," Song Zhongping said.

China will also engage in military technology exchanges with these countries, remain open to joint exercises with African military and defense departments and offer peacekeeping training, Song Zhongping said.

"Everything China does is aimed at maintaining regional peace and stability, assisting African countries in establishing viable self-defense capabilities and ensuring defense capabilities without altering the local power balance," the expert said.

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun)
This photo provided on Tuesday, Aug. 29, 2023, by the North Korean government, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, center, with his daughter, center right, reportedly named Ju Ae, review the honor guard during their visit to the navy headquarter in North Korea, on Aug. 27, 2023. Independent journalists were not given access to cover the event depicted in this image distributed by the North Korean government. The content of this image is as provided and cannot be independently verified. Korean language watermark on image as provided by source reads: "KCNA" which is the abbreviation for Korean Central News Agency. (Korean Central News Agency/Korea News Service via AP)

SEOUL, South Korea (AP)  North Korean leader Kim Jong Un called for the military to be constantly ready for combat to thwart its rivals plots to invade, state media said Tuesday, as the U.S., South Korea and Japan held a trilateral naval exercise to deal with North Koreas evolving nuclear threats.

The U.S. and South Korean militaries have been separately holding summer bilateral exercises since last week. North Korea views such U.S.-involved training as an invasion rehearsal, though Washington and its partners maintain their drills are defensive.

Kim said in a speech marking the countrys Navy Day on Monday that the waters off the Korean Peninsula have been made unstable with the danger of a nuclear war because of U.S.-led hostilities, according to the official Korean Central News Agency.

He accused the U.S. of conducting more frantic naval drills with its allies and deploying strategic assets in waters around the Korean Peninsula. Kim also cited a recent U.S.-South Korean-Japanese summit where an agreement to boost defense cooperation was reached to counter North Koreas nuclear program. Kim called U.S. President Joe Biden, South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida the gang bosses of the three countries.

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The prevailing situation requires our navy to put all its efforts into rounding off the war readiness to maintain the constant combat alertness and get prepared to break the enemys will for war in contingency, Kim said.

South Korea's Foreign Ministry expressed deep regret over Kim's use of very rude language to slander the South Korean, U.S. and Japanese leaders. Spokesperson Lim Soosuk told reporters that North Korea must immediately stop acts that raise tensions with reckless threats and provocation.

In Washington, D.C., Cho Hyundong, South Koreas ambassador to the United States, said South Korean, U.S. and Japanese efforts to improve relations would not be deterred by Kim's rhetoric.

The continued provocation and continued violation of multiple critical U.N. security resolutions by North Korea will only strengthen the trilateral security cooperation, Cho said.

He made the comments Tuesday in an appearance at the Center for Strategic and International Studies with Tomita Koji, Japans ambassador to the U.S., and Kurt Campbell, a top adviser to Biden on Indo-Pacific affairs.

Tuesdays South Korean-U.S.-Japanese drills in international waters off South Koreas southern Jeju island involved naval destroyers from the three countries. The training was aimed at mastering procedures for detecting, tracking and sharing information about incoming North Korean missiles, South Koreas navy said in a statement.

The U.S. and South Korean militaries began the 11-day bilateral drills on Aug. 21. The annual Ulchi Freedom Shield training is normally a computer-simulated command post exercise, but it included field exercises this year.

North Korea typically responds to U.S.-South Korean military drills with its own missile tests. Last Thursday, its second attempt to launch a spy satellite into space failed. The day the drills began, KCNA said Kim observed the test-firing of strategic cruise missiles.

Since the beginning of 2022, North Korea has carried out more than 100 weapons tests, many of them involving nuclear-capable missiles designed to strike the U.S., South Korea and Japan. Many experts say North Korea ultimately wants to use its boosted military capabilities to wrest greater concessions from the U.S.

North Koreas testing spree has caused the U.S. and South Korea to expand their drills, resume trilateral training involving Japan and enhance regular visibility of U.S. strategic assets to the Korean Peninsula. In July, the United States deployed a nuclear-armed submarine to South Korea for the first time in four decades.

Earlier this month, the leaders of the U.S., South Korea and Japan held their first-ever stand-alone trilateral summit at Camp David. During the meeting, they announced they intend to put into operation by years end the sharing of real-time missile warning data on North Korea and hold annual trilateral exercises.

Kim has been pushing hard to expand his nuclear arsenal and introduce a slew of sophisticated weapons systems.

During his Navy Day speech, Kim said that military units of each service would be given new weaponry in line with the governments decision to expand the operation of tactical nuclear weapons. He said the navy would become a component of the state nuclear deterrence carrying out the strategic duty.

This suggests North Korea would deploy new nuclear-capable missiles to its navy and other military services.

State media photos showed Kim visiting the navy headquarters with his daughter, reportedly named Ju Ae and aged about 10. It was her first public appearance since mid-May. Kim has brought her to a series of public events since November, sparking speculation about her political status.

South Korean officials say Kim hasnt anointed her as his heir. They believe Kim likely attempts to use his daughters public appearance as a way to show his people that one of his children would one day inherit his power in what would be the countrys third hereditary power transfer.

___

Associated Press writer Aamer Madhani in Washington contributed to this report.
His Majesty William Wilberforce Kadhumbula Gabula Nadiope IV, King of Busoga, Uganda, visits the butter cow at the Iowa State Fair on Monday with Dr. Curtis Youngs, ISU Center for Sustainable Rural Livelihoods associate director.

Its not every day that a king visits Iowa. On Monday, His Majesty William Wilberforce Gabula Nadiope IV, King of Busoga, Uganda, spent the day at the Iowa State Fair.

His Majesty  along with his personal secretary John Kairu; security/logistics officer Karoli Mwiiru; executive director of Developing Lives, Livelihoods and Nutrition Daniel Kitimbo; and national director of Iowa State UniversityUganda Program Dr. Gideon Nadiope  were there to learn about agriculture in Iowa.

Though the Kyabazinga (king) has visited several states in the U.S., this is his first trip to Iowa.

I'm enjoying the vast knowledge that I'm acquiring from Iowa, His Majesty said, referring to companies showcasing their programs, agricultural methods and equipment. The Kyabazinga's goal is to share what hes learned with farmers in his kingdom, as well as those on his own demonstration farm.

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Increasing milk production and producing quality milk were of particular interest. The feeding that enables the cows to have a lot of milk is one of the necessities that I feel I should teach my people, that if you want to have good quality milk production, there is a process especially with the kind of feeds given to the cows, like the corns, which are rich in nutrients, the kind of foods that are grown here, for instance, the different types of grass, and at the same time, the environment that necessitates the cow to be in position to give enough milk.

Dr. Curtis Youngs, ISU Center for Sustainable Rural Livelihoods associate director and M.E. Ensminger Endowed Chair of International Animal Agriculture, escorted His Majesty and his delegation around the fair. At the Cattle Barn, they visited the I Milked a Cow booth where the King did, indeed, milk a cow  and could at least visually inspect the milk production.

His Majesty William Wilberforce Kadhumbula Gabula Nadiope IV, King of Busoga, Uganda, milks a cow in the Cattle Barn at the Iowa State Fair on Monday.

Milking a cow is not new to His Majesty, who has Friesian cows as well as local cattle breeds totaling more than 150 in number on his 250-acre farm. In addition to cattle, theres an orchard that includes oranges, mangos, pineapple, lemons, cassava and Arabica coffee. Its an organized, modern farm, with a tractor, sheds, and irrigation system. All of this is important to His Majesty because its a teaching or demonstration farm.

One of the main reasons why I'm having it is I want to demonstrate to the youth culture that through agriculture, one can be in position to be a job creator as number one; two, sustain yourself; and three, agriculture being the backbone of Uganda, it is the way to go for the youth, His Majesty said, adding that the majority of the population in Uganda is involved in agriculture and about 75% of the population are youth.

His Majesty William Wilberforce Gabula Nadiope IV and his delegation are in Iowa to visit Iowa State University which, through its Center for Sustainable Rural Livelihoods, has agriculture, nutrition, farming and educational programs in Kamuli in the Busoga Sub-Region. The Busoga Kingdom, which has approximately 7 million people and is the second largest kingdom in Uganda, has a partnership and exchange program with ISU.

Though the purpose of the visit was educational, they couldnt leave without experiencing a couple of Iowa State Fair traditions. One was seeing the butter cow. Another was tasting the food.

His Majesty William Wilberforce Kadhumbula Gabula Nadiope IV, King of Busoga, Uganda, poses for a photo with the Iowa Dairy Princess Naomi Scott, of West Gate, in the Cattle Barn at the Iowa State Fair on Monday.

Since His Majesty had never heard of elephant ears, he decided to try them.

"It's a new taste, given the fact that in African culture, in Uganda, you don't have that kind of food," His Majesty said regarding the elephant ears. It's a new experience. Whenever you travel, it's always good to adventure and try different kinds of culture.

Rachelle Chase is an author and an opinion columnist, who's also launched a new column, Trailblazers & Trendsetters, at the Des Moines Register. Follow Rachelle at facebook.com/rachelle.chase.author or email her at rchase@registermedia.com.

This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: King of Busoga, Uganda, visits Iowa for first time, stops at the fair
(Bloomberg) -- Serbia and Kosovo need to pursue a deal to mend ties before their allies become preoccupied with elections in the US and the European Union, according to the Kosovar prime minister.

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There is this sense of urgency to implement the agreement and normalize relations between Kosovo and Serbia, centered on a mutual de-facto recognition, at the latest by spring next year, Prime Minister Albin Kurti said in an interview in Brdo, Slovenia on Monday.

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Under the auspices of US and EU mediators, the two Balkan states agreed in March on a path toward normalizing ties, which they must do to advance toward EU membership. At the meeting in North Macedonia, Kurti and Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic verbally endorsed a plan that obliges both sides to respect the territorial integrity of the other.

But the progress unraveled two months later as violence broke out in northern Kosovo, home to the majority of the countrys ethnic Serbs. Protesters from the community clashed with Kosovo police and NATO peacekeepers after Kosovo installed ethnic-Albanian mayors elected in local elections that the Serb population boycotted. Dozens of people were injured

Read more: Violence in Kosovo Exposes Perilous Limbo in Europes Powder Keg

For his defiance against his Western allies, who had asked Kurti to refrain from installing the ethnic-Albanian mayors, the EU slapped Kosovo with measures targeting its economy and military cooperation with the West.

The measures are hurting us in terms of financial and material support of funds and grants and loans that we receive from the EU, Kurti said. They are hurting our state agencies and our business community.

Still seemingly bitter at the snub, Kurti said that both the EU and the US want to help and support Kosovo. But they also want to wrestle Serbia from Russian influence, he added.

Kosovo declared independence from Serbia in 2008, following a brutal offensive against Kosovos mostly ethnic-Albanian population that was stopped by NATO air strikes against Serbian targets in 1999. Serbia refuses to recognize its former provinces independence and has blocked its efforts to join some international bodies.

Kurti reiterated a willingness to call new municipal elections. To trigger a process toward a new ballot, at least 20% of the local population must petition for the mayors terms to be terminated, and international mediators said they will try to ensure that this time the election isnt boycotted, he said.

For Kurti, going back to the agreement endorsed by both sides in March is the only way forward.

The agreement is still on the table, he said.

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A meeting took place in Russian dictator Vladimir Putins administration on Aug. 25 regarding the next stage of the information war against Ukraine, the Ukrainian militarys Main Intelligence Directorate or HUR reported on Aug. 29.

Read also: Ukraines Digital Ministry requests ban on sale of Atomic Heart shooter over Russian propaganda

The event was attended by Sergey Kiriyenko , the first deputy head of Putins administration, Kremlin technologists, and representatives of media outlets involved in operations within the information sphere, the HUR said. The main topic of the meeting was to approve specific narratives aimed at discrediting Ukraine and influencing its partners globally, it said.

The HUR also said the Russian disinformation campaign will soon focus on utilizing the following themes and narratives:

Mass mobilization:

Allegedly, all Ukrainians without exception will be subject to mobilization, regardless of gender, age, or health status.

Supposedly, mobilization will apply even to minors.

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Read also: U.S. identifies Russian official overseeing pseudo-referendum in Ukraine

Undermining confidence in victory prospects among Ukraines partners:

Imaginary secret deals about peace in exchange for territory.

Fabricated political agreements, including the manufacturing of materials about a supposed secret agreement between Kyiv Mayor Vitaliy Klitschko and representatives of the U.S. Republican Party regarding support for his future presidential election campaign.

Ukrainian counteroffensive has no success:

Allegedly, an increase in the number of burials of Ukrainian soldiers, using cemeteries in major cities as examples.

Supposed lack of success on the frontlines amid significant losses, propagating the theme of local defenders deaths in every region of Ukraine.

Search for culprits in fabricated failures to discredit Ukrainian military leaders and officials.

Read also: Russian propaganda is beginning to prepare Russians for defeat, believes expert veteran

Total corruption:

Allegedly, the state isnt combatting corruption  the budget is being embezzled, procurements are not conducted.

Supposed absence of punishments for corrupt individuals.

The wonderful life in occupied territories:

Allegedly, high salaries, low prices, and provisions of all necessities.

Development of infrastructure, reconstruction of destroyed housing.

Free elections on a single voting day based on Russian laws.

Ukraine abandons occupied territories with the demonstration of fabricated documents.

Supposedly, Ukrainian authorities are surrendering Kupyansk.

Read also: Who will get to power in Russia after Putin is gone?

The HUR stressed that in order to resist hostile propaganda, people should adhere to information hygiene and trust only official sources of information.

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Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
The Kremlin fears a fresh attempt will be made to overthrow the regime of Russian dictator Vladimir Putin, the Russian English-language newspaper the Moscow Times reported on Aug. 28.

Read also: Paralyzed Putin did nothing despite knowing of Wagner rebellion in advance  Washington Post

The newspaper, citing three sources, including a government official who previously served in the security forces, says the Kremlin believes there might be another march on Moscow by fighters of the Wagner mercenary company following the death of the companys head Yevgeny Prigozhin in a plane crash.



Prigozhin was among 10 people killed when a business jet broke up in the air after departing from Moscow. It is believed to have been brought down either by a missile or by a bomb planted on board.





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Read also: New rebellion in Russia may be under way, according to Ukrainian intelligence

The Russian special services are already working to monitor and prevent similar "performances" such as Wagners march on the Russian capital in late June, the newspapers interlocutors claim.

"That tanks could come within 200 kilometers of Moscow made an indelible impression on (Russian dictator) Vladimir Putin, who has ruled for more than two decades," the Moscow Times sources said.

"Prigozhin not only defied the army command, but also disobeyed the president's personal order, so he was recognized as a threat to the regime."

The sources add that the Kremlin will not be able to maintain the Wagner mercenary company in its current form, and it will be disbanded.

Read also: Putin most likely behind Prigozhin's alleged death, says former British army chief

Prigozhin's mutiny in Russia and Wagner's march on Moscow - What is known

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 Russian Defense Minister Sergey Shoigu had started months earlier.

Read also: Kremlin purges 28 high-ranking officers after Wagners mutiny  Estonian intelligence

For the few months leading up to his late-June mutiny, the Wagner leader had 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.

Wagner forces seized control over the main military facilities in the cities of Rostov-on-Don and Voronezh on June 24. They also shot down seven Russian Air Force aircraft.

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 mutiny.

Read also: What awaits Wagner, Prigozhin, Lukashenko

The Wagnerites convoys nevertheless moved towards Moscow in a march for justice, as Prigozhin called it.

The FSB charged Prigozhin with inciting insurrection, while the security forces were preparing to defend Moscow. Putin is believed to have fled the capital to his residence in Valdai, northwest of Moscow.

Belarusian dictator Alexander Lukashenko then 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 Aug. 23, a plane crashed in Russias Tver Oblast, which, according to Russia, was carrying Prigozhin and his "right hand man" Dmitry Wagner Utkin. Four days later, they were finally officially declared dead.

Read also: After Prigozhin's death Kremlin to try to take control over Wagner mercenary company, says ex-CIA director

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Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
After Pope Francis , during a video address in the Basilica of Saint Catherine of Alexandria in St. Petersburg on Aug. 25, appeared to praise Russian imperialism, the Vatican has offered an explanation for the pontiffs remarks.

The Pope, speaking by video link to a meeting All-Russian Meeting of Catholic Youth, said: Never forget your heritage. You are heirs of Great Russia: a Russia of saints and rulers, a Russia of figures like Peter the Great and Catherine (the Great).

Read also: Vatican has secret peace mission for Ukraine, Pope Francis says

Peter the Great was the founder of the Russian empire, and Catherine the Great expanded its territory through military conquest further into Ukraine and Crimea. Russian imperialism has also contributed to ethnic cleansing of native populations in the Russian Far East, murderous repression and deportation in the Baltics, and the repeated carving up and absorption of Poland in Russian imperial and Soviet times.

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An enlightened empire, a land of profound culture and humanity. Always cherish this legacy; you are heirs of Great Mother Russia. Carry it forward. Thank you for who you are, for your way of embodying Russian identity, the Pope continued.

Read also: Pope Francis entrusts peace mission in Ukraine to friend, Cardinal Zuppi

Matteo Bruni, a representative of the Holy See, as reported by Vatican News, on Aug. 29 claimed that Pope Francis had not been glorifying imperialism in his address. Bruni said that the pope had intended to inspire young people to preserve and develop the positive aspects of Russias rich cultural and spiritual legacy.

Without a doubt, he did not intend to praise imperial logic or the leaders he mentioned in connection with specific historical periods, Bruni added.

Nevertheless, the Popes comments have delighted the Kremlin, which is currently waging an imperialist and genocidal war in Ukraine.

The Kremlin-controlled Russian state news agency TASS reported that Dmitry Peskov, spokesperson for Russian dictator Vladimir Putin, had commended the pope for his strong understanding of Russian history.

He acknowledges the efforts the state makes to continually pass down this heritage to our youth and to remind them of it. It is truly encouraging that the popes words align with these endeavors, Peskov said.

Read also: NATO poses a threat to Russian imperialism not Russian security  opinion

Ukraines Foreign Ministry has criticized the Popes address as promoting imperialism, which the Kremlin could use to justify the deaths of thousands of Ukrainians and the devastation of hundreds of cities and villages.

In response, the Apostolic Nunciature in Ukraine (the Vaticans diplomatic mission) released a statement saying that the papal representation strongly rejects the aforementioned interpretations, as Pope Francis has never endorsed imperialistic ideas and is their critic.

Previously, the Pope repeated a Kremlin propaganda trope that Russia was provoked into invading Ukraine by NATO expansion.

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Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
Ukraine's Defence Intelligence (DIU) warns of a new stage in Russia's information war against Ukraine.

Source: Press service of the Ukraine's Defence Intelligence

Details: Ukraine's Defence Intelligence reports that on 25 August, the Russian Presidential Administration held a meeting to discuss the next stage of the information war in the Ukrainian and global media.

The event was attended by Sergei Kirienko, First Deputy Chief of Staff of the Putin Administration, Kremlin "technologists" and representatives of media resources involved in information operations.

According to the UDI, the topic of the meeting was the approval of specific narratives that would discredit Ukraine and influence its partners in the world.

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Ukrainian intelligence reports that in the near future, Russian propaganda will focus on using such topics and narratives:

Mass mobilisation: all Ukrainians without exception, regardless of gender, age or health status, will be subject to mobilisation; mobilisation will apply to minors.

Disbelief of Ukrainian partners in the possibility of victory: "agreements" on "peace in exchange for territories"; political deals (fabrication of materials about the "secret agreement" between Kyiv Mayor Vitalii Klitschko and representatives of the US Republican Party to support him in the upcoming presidential election).

Ukrainian counter-offensive has no success: increasing the number of burials of Ukrainian soldiers in cemeteries of large cities; lack of success at the front with heavy losses; replicating the theme of the deaths of local defenders in every oblast of Ukraine; the Ukrainian authorities "surrendering" Kupiansk; searching for those responsible for "failures" to discredit Ukrainian military leaders and officials.

Ukraine gives up the occupied territories: demonstration of fabricated documents;

Total corruption: the state does not fight corruption; the budget is stolen, procurement is not carried out, and there is no punishment for corrupt officials.

"Beautiful" life in the occupied territories: high salaries, low prices, provision of everything necessary; infrastructure development and reconstruction of destroyed housing; free elections on a single voting day under the laws of the Russian Federation.

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FILE PHOTO: Pope Francis leads the Angelus prayer from his window at the Vatican

MOSCOW (Reuters) - The Kremlin on Tuesday described as "very gratifying" comments by Pope Francis urging young Russians to remember their history, saying that the Russian state had a rich legacy and that it was good that the Pope knew Russian history.

Pope Francis has come under criticism for telling Russian youths last week to remember that they are the heirs of past tsars such as Peter the Great, whom President Vladimir Putin has held up as an example to justify Moscow's actions in Ukraine.

The Ukrainian government said the comments, which Francis made in a live video address to Catholic youths gathered in St. Petersburg, were "deeply regrettable".

While the Vatican issued a statement on Tuesday saying the Pope had no intention of glorifying past Russian imperialism, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov praised the Pope during a briefing on the same day.

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"The pontiff knows Russian history and this is very good," he said. "It has deep roots, and our heritage is not limited to Peter (the Great) or Catherine, it is much more ancient."

Russians traditionally trace the origins of their nation to a group of medieval principalities centered around Kyiv known as Kievan or Kyivan Rus. Putin has sought to deny that Ukraine has any tradition of statehood and said that Russians and Ukrainians are one people, in what Ukrainian and western scholars have called a false and self-serving view of history.

"What the (Russian) state, activist groups, school and university teachers are doing now is carrying this heritage to our youth, reminding them of it," Peskov said.

"And the fact that the pontiff sounds in unison with these efforts is very, very gratifying."

(Reporting by Reuters; editing by Mark Trevelyan)
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba held a telephone call with NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg on Ukraine's next steps on its path to the Alliance membership, Kuleba said on Aug. 29.

"We discussed the adapted Annual National Program and a full-fledged rollout of the Ukraine-NATO Council," the Ukrainian minister said.

While Ukraine did not receive the much-desired invitation to join NATO during the Vilnius summit in July, the Alliance agreed to tighten cooperation with Kyiv by launching the Ukraine-NATO Council as a consultation and coordination platform.

Following its inaugural session during the summit, the Council convened again on July 26 to discuss security in the Black Sea region after Russia's one-sided termination of the Black Sea Grain Initiative and increased Russian strikes against Ukrainian ports.

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NATO leaders also consented that Ukraine may skip the Membership Action Plan, shortening the steps Kyiv has to take on its path to the accession.

According to Deputy Prime Minister for European and Euro-Atlantic Integration Olha Stefanishyna, the membership progress will be measured according to the adapted Annual National Program (ANP), which is expected to be "very short."

The ANP should focus mainly on the military interoperability of Ukrainian and NATO forces and the implementation of NATO standards in the defense and security sectors, Stefanishyna said.

During the phone call, Kuleba also informed Stoltenberg of Ukraine's preparations for the first Defense Industries Forum. Defense Minister Oleksii Reznikov said earlier that the event will likely take place in late September with the participation of around 50 important players in the arms market.

Read also: Ukraine gets a fraction of what it wanted at NATO summit

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Friends and family gathered in Kyiv on Aug. 29 to bid a final farewell to pilot Andriy Pilshchykov, known by his call sign Juice, who tragically lost his life in an airplane crash in Zhytomyr Oblast

Friends and family gathered in Kyiv on Aug. 29 to bid a final farewell to pilot Andriy Pilshchykov, known by his call sign Juice, who tragically lost his life in an airplane crash in Zhytomyr Oblast, the national broadcaster Suspilne reported on Aug. 29.

The farewell ceremony took place at the Patriarchal Cathedral of the Resurrection of Christ of the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church.

Relatives, friends, and fellow servicemen came together to pay their respects to Juice, as reported by Suspilne, the Ukrainian public broadcaster.

Lieutenant General Mykola Oleshchuk, the Commander of the Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, was also in attendance.

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Read also: Charity supporting Ukrainian pilots to be renamed in honor of legendary fighter pilot Juice

He wasnt merely a hero; he was a legend. He envisioned the future of the Air Force and conveyed to the world that Ukraine needed airplanes, Oleshchuk said.

Regrettably, he couldnt witness this vision fully come to fruition; theres very little left. Aviators dont simply perish; they ascend to the skies. He has become a symbol of the Spirit of Kyiv, and Andrii was an integral part of it.

A tragic aviation catastrophe occurred in Zhytomyr Oblast on Aug. 25. While carrying out a critical combat mission, two L-39 training-combat aircraft collided mid-air, leading to the loss of all three pilots lives.

The pilots who died served as combat pilots with the 40th Brigade of the Center Tactical Aviation Command.

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An investigation is underway to ascertain the circumstances surrounding the accident, and the State Investigation Bureau has initiated a criminal inquiry into the catastrophe. The investigation is exploring three potential scenarios:

 Technical malfunction of the aircraft.

 Pilot error.

 Violations during flight organization.

Read also: Juice, Minka, Prokazin  more about the pilots killed in a tragic accident in Zhytomyr Oblast

Andriy Pilshchykov, a MiG-29 fighter jet pilot, was a key member of the 40th Brigade of Tactical Aviation. He played a pivotal role in the aerial defense of Kyiv during the initial phases of the full-scale Russian invasion of Ukraine in 2022.

The pilot known as Juice is renowned for his instrumental efforts in procuring Western F-16 fighter jets for Ukraine. He went to the United States for training and assessment, and fervently advocated the transfer of these aircraft, participating in numerous interviews on the subject with Western media outlets.

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Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
The 89th Pana Labor Day Parade steps off from Second and Poplar streets at 10 a.m. Monday.

Two central Illinois communities will continue long-standing traditions of Labor Day parades.

Greenview's 54th annual Labor Day Weekend Celebration runs from Saturday to Monday, with the parade stepping off at 10 a.m. Monday.

Billed as "the largest parade on Labor Day in downstate Illinois," the 89th Pana Labor Day Parade also begins at 10 a.m. Monday.

At 100, Evelyn Brandt Thomas reflects on working every day and her company's early days

The starting point is Second and Poplar streets in Pana. The parade will head west down Second Street and wind its way through Kitchell Park, ending near the Chautauqua Pavilion there.

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Over 100 entries are expected, said Joshua Ishmael, Chairman of the Labor Day Parade Committee. The theme is Community Progress  Prairie Values."

Ron and Brenda Sims of Pana will serve as grand marshals. Long active in civic and church-related functions in the community, the couple has been married 57 years and raised four children.

Ron and Brenda Sims will serve as grand marshals for the Pana Labor Day Parade Monday.

The Pana Tri-County Fair opens Wednesday and runs through Labor Day. The fairgrounds is at 605 N. 2500 East Rd.

The weekend in Greenview includes a 5K run, food stands, a pie contest, a flea/farmer's market and a storytelling musical of President Abraham Lincoln, Lincoln Tales Tall and True," put on by Brian Fox Ellis and Barry Cloyd.

The Springfield and Central Illinois Trades & Labor Council will hold its Labor Day Picnic at the Illinois AFL-CIO, 534 S. Second St., at 5:30 p.m. Friday.

Monday is a federal holiday, meaning banks and post offices will be closed and there will be no mail delivery.

Government buildings

Federal buildings and courts, state of Illinois offices and courts, the Sangamon County buildings and courts and the Municipal Building, along with Lincoln Library and Oak Ridge Cemetery offices, will be closed.

Eighth grade pre-algebra teacher Courtney Campo hands out some school supplies to students the first day of class at Washington Middle School on Monday, August, 21, 2023.

Schools

Springfield School District 186 administrative offices are closed Monday and there are no classes. The board of education meeting will be held at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday.

There are no classes at the University of Illinois Springfield, Lincoln Land Community College or Midwest Institute of Technology. Offices at all three campuses are also closed.

SMTD offices

Public transportation

Sangamon Mass Transit District buses will not be running Monday. That also includes ACCESS paratransit service. SMTD administrative offices will be closed.

Alan Espinoza, 17, of Addison, Illinois, touches the nose on Abraham Lincoln's statue at the Lincoln Tomb for good luck while on a trip with his high school class on Wednesday Feb. 9, 2022.

What is open in Springfield Monday?

Tourist sites, such as the Lincoln Home, the Lincoln Tomb, the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum and the Dana-Thomas House are all open during normal hours on Monday.

Contact StevenSpearie: (217) 622-1788; sspearie@sj-r.com; X, twitter.com/@StevenSpearie.

This article originally appeared on State Journal-Register: Two central Illinois communities will stage Labor Day parades
The Lady of the Dunes, a nameless murder victim found along the Massachusetts shoreline in 1974, was identified last year as Ruth Marie Terry.

Now, Terrys husband has been identified as her killer, bringing a close to an infamous case that went unsolved for nearly 50 years, according to an Aug. 28 press release from the Cape and Islands District Attorneys Office.

Terrys body was spotted on the dunes of Provincetown on July 26, 1974, having sustained blunt force trauma.

Her head was nearly severed from her body and her hands were missing, likely in an attempt to hinder identification efforts, according to previous reporting from McClatchy News.

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Despite repeated attempts to solve the case, state and local authorities remained stumped for decades. But, thanks to advances in DNA technology, her remains were finally identified in October.

In the months following her identification, state police were able to conclude that her husband, Guy Muldavin, had killed her, officials said. Muldavin died in 2002.

Terry married Muldavin in 1973 or 1974, potentially weeks or months before her death, officials said.

The pair were confirmed to have traveled together around the time of her death in the summer of 1974, officials said.

Only Muldavin returned from the trip. And, at the time, he was believed to be driving Terrys car and telling people she had died, officials said.

When Terrys brother tried tracking down his sister, Mulvadin reportedly told him they had a fight during their honeymoon, and he had not heard from his wife again, officials said.

Mulvadin was also considered the main suspect in the disappearance of his previous wife and stepdaughter, officials said. The pair went missing in the Seattle area in the 1960s.

The District Attorney expresses his deepest condolences to the family of Ms. Terry, officials said.

Bite marks on womans body help ID suspect in 1994 cold case, California officials say

Husband puts tracker on wifes car, steals her dogs, sets their home ablaze, feds say

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TOMS RIVER - A Lakehurst con artist pleaded guilty Monday to stealing $220,000 from senior citizens in Ocean County, pretending to be a handyman of sorts who was down on his luck.

Robert Cohan, 36, is expected to serve at least eight years in state prison when he is sentenced in October and will be required to pay restitution to his victims, said Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer.

Between February 2022 and May 2022, Cohan targeted residents of the Gardens of Pleasant Plains  an age-restricted community in Toms River  often posing as the relative of someone who owned a legitimate contracting business, according to a statement from the Prosecutors Office.

Cohan would approach individuals and offer his services to do work on the exterior of their homes, but what he actually did was little or no work at all after taking their money, which collectively amounted to about $200,000 from more than 10 homeowners, the statement said.

Mugshot of Robert Cohan, 36, of Lakehurst, who has pleaded guilty to theft by deception for conning older residents of Ocean County out of $220,000.

For those crimes, Cohan was arrested on June 23, 2022, by investigators from the Toms River Police Department and was charged with theft by deception, but his crimes did not end there. After he was released from the Ocean County Jail, he went back to attempting to take advantage of older people, according to the Prosecutors Office.

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In September 2022, three months after he was released from jail, Cohan  using an alias  approached a woman described as an elderly victim at a bank in Berkeley. He convinced the victim to give him a small amount of money in exchange for a small task that he was to perform on her property, the statement said.

Now that he knew where the woman lived, Cohan continuously visited the victim at her home and asked for larger sums of money for multiple reasons, including the funeral expenses for his dead father-in-law  who would later turn out to be very much alive.

Cohan accompanied the woman to several banks, convincing her to withdraw large sums of money from her account or by way of credit card cash advances  which ultimately amounted to $20,000, all according to the Prosecutors Office.

An investigation by Berkeley Police led to Cohan being charged again with theft by deception, and he was sent back to the county jail on Oct. 5, 2022. He has remained incarcerated since then.

Senior Assistant Prosecutor Christopher Heisler and Assistant Prosecutor Taylor Toscano handled the case on behalf of the state of New Jersey.

Cohan pleaded guilty to his crimes Monday before state Superior Court Judge Kimarie Rahill.

Contact Asbury Park Press reporter Erik Larsen at elarsen@gannettnj.com.

This article originally appeared on Asbury Park Press: Lakehurst con artist pleads guilty to swindling Ocean County seniors
LAS VEGAS (KLAS)  A man allegedly paid an undercover officer to kill a man he suspected was having an affair with his wife and then kill another man in a double kidnapping and murder-for-hire plot, documents the 8 News Now Investigators obtained Tuesday said.

Mario Valdez, 45, was charged with solicitation to commit murder and solicit to commit kidnapping or arson, records showed.

On Aug. 16, a Metro police detective received information from a confidential informant about a person, later identified as Valdez, who allegedly was offering money for another person to be kidnapped and murdered, documents said.

The confidential informant told the detective Valdez is a local contractor and wanted [a man] murdered due to an alleged affair between Valdezs wife and [the man], documents said. The mans name is redacted in the documents the 8 News Now Investigators obtained.

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Later on Aug. 16, an undercover officer met with Valdez and offered to kill the man for a fee, documents said.

Valdez explained he wanted the victim interrogated and killed due to an affair he had with his wife, police said. Valdez gave instructions that during the interrogation, he would like the victim to answer questions related to a chain/piece of jewelry, what his plans were with an associate named [redacted], and if he had sex with his wife.

Valdez then allegedly told the undercover officer that the victim would need to be truthful because he had located his family in Mexico, documents said. He also told the undercover officer to threaten to cut off the victims sons genitals to get him to talk, police said.

The [undercover officer] asked specifically how he wanted the murder to happen and if he wanted him to cut off one of the victims ears to give to Valdez as a keepsake, documents said. Valdez replied he would like an ear but would not want to be contacted during the act due to concern of it being traced, meaning the murder could be tracked back to Valdez.

Valdez agreed to pay the undercover officer $4,000 in cash and then an additional $2,000 at a later date, police said. Valdez then allegedly texted the undercover agent a picture of his target.

On Aug. 22, police interviewed the intended target who said Valdez was his former employer, documents said. The man told police he was no longer in the United States and was worried about his safety.

Also on Aug. 22, Valdez texted the undercover officer and asked for a meeting, documents said. Valdez once again showed the undercover officer a photo of the intended target and gave him $1,000, police said.

Valdez later told the undercover officer he wanted a second man murdered and he wanted the homicide to look like a robbery gone wrong, police said. There was no indication in police documents as to why Valdez wanted the second man murdered.

The conversation then turned back to the first target with Valdez allegedly telling the undercover officer he wanted the murder recorded, police said. The undercover officer then told Valdez the murder would occur the next day, Aug. 23, documents said.

Police arrested Valdez on Aug. 23, records showed.

Valdez was scheduled to have his preliminary hearing on Sept. 11. A judge set bail at $20,000. Records show he posted bond on Monday, however, he remained in custody at the Clark County Detention Center as of Tuesday, jail records indicated.

Metro police denied a request to release Valdezs booking photo, citing the ongoing investigation.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KLAS.
The League of United Latin American Citizens of Iowa has a message for Gov. Kim Reynolds : "Governor, stop the hate."

The message  which now appears across six billboards in the Des Moines metro  is aimed at Reynolds' recent decision to send 109 Iowa National Guard soldiers to Texas and support the U.S.-Mexico border security initiative "Operation Lone Star."

A group of Iowa State Patrol officers also will be sent to Texas on Aug. 31 and help Texas state troopers, according to a news release.

The Iowa teams will offer aid in cases dealing with weapons, human trafficking and narcotics, the release said.

Featured is a rendering of the image now displayed across six billboards in the Des Moines metro.

LULAC organizers are denouncing Reynolds' actions, saying her decision to send troops to the southern border is "political grandstanding." They also said the measures taken to keep migrants from crossing the border such as the 1,000-foot string of wrecking-ball-sized buoys with serrated metal plates in the Rio Grande  otherwise known as the "floating wall"  are "barbaric."

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The U.S. Department of Justice has filed a lawsuit against Texas Gov. Greg Abbott for allegedly violating the law and installing the floating barrier. Abbott and lawyers for the state of Texas have insisted the governor acted under his legal authority to protect the state from an "invasion" caused by unlawful immigration and drug trafficking.

"The results of the unlawful barriers are devastating," LULAC, the nation's oldest and largest Hispanic organization that has more than 20 councils in Iowa, said in a news release. "Dead bodies caught in buoys; childrens bodies slashed by razor wire; and a pregnant woman having a miscarriage while ensnared in the barricades.

"In addition to the razor wire and buoys, state troopers have been ordered to push migrants back into the water as they attempted to reach U.S. soil and exercise their legal right to claim asylum. Troopers were also told not to give migrants water to drink."

In her news release, Reynolds said the Biden administration "has failed to respond to the crisis at the border" and "created one of the most significant national security and humanitarian crises of our generation." She said the administration is "blatantly ignoring" the impact it has on states, cities and people.

She is using COVID-19 relief money from the American Rescue Plan Act to send troops.

Since the administration refuses to invest in securing the border and protecting its citizens, Texas has asked other states to help, and Iowa is ready and willing to assist," Reynolds said.

Reynolds traveled to the border last week with other governors to draw attention to the border situation.

"Texas has been ground zero for over two years because of the catastrophe Biden created at the southern border," Reynolds contended during her trip.

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott, right, and Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt, left, listen as Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds, center, speaks during a news conference along the Rio Grande, Monday, Aug. 21, 2023, in Eagle Pass, Texas.

But Joe Henry, political director of LULAC of Iowa, disagreed with Reynolds' characterizations. That's why the organization launched the billboard campaign, he said.

Henry told the Des Moines Register the billboards are meant to draw attention to Reynolds' "hateful actions," which he says speaks volumes to Latinos in Iowa. Her actions tell them, he says, "that we're not wanted here and that we will never be accepted as Iowans."

The billboards featuring LULAC's "Governor, stop the hate" message will be up for two weeks. Henry says his organization has plans to put up more billboard signs with different messages. Plans for protests and to boost voter participation also are underway.

In a statement Tuesday night, Kollin Crompton, Reynolds deputy communications director, said, Since 2020, Iowa has seen a 500% increase in fentanyl seizures, 100% increase in meth seizures and a 35% increase in drug-related deaths. In just three months earlier this year, the Iowa Department of Public Safety seized 27,450 fentanyl pills, 363 pounds of meth, and 72 pounds of cocaine. This is the harsh reality of President Bidens abject failure to protect the sovereignty of this country. Whats happening at the border is now in our own backyard, and Gov. Reynolds refuses to stand by while illegal immigrants, illicit drugs and dangerous cartels put Iowans at risk. Protecting Iowans at home starts 1,000 miles away at the border, and Texas shouldnt have to do it alone. These billboards are a slap in the face to families whove lost loved ones to fentanyl and the Iowa National Guard soldiers who protected our country.

Henry said he believes that the issues rising at the U.S.-Mexico border are a "federal issue," and "sending military down there is not what the state should be doing."

"We are a country of immigrants," he said. "We should have a system that helps people fleeing violence. We should provide more judges, not military personnel down at the border. Clearly, things need to be done to help people fleeing violence."

F. Amanda Tugade covers social justice issues for the Des Moines Register. Email her at ftugade@dmreg.com or follow her on Twitter @writefelissa. USA Today contributed to this report.

This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: 'Stop the hate' billboards put up in response to Reynolds' Texas aid
A federal judge set a March 4 trial date in the case brought by the Justice Department against former President Donald Trump over his alleged efforts to overturn the 2020 election.

U.S. District Judge Tanya Chutkan, who is overseeing the case, said in a hearing on Monday that the trial date suggested by federal prosecutors, who proposed Jan. 2., didn't allow Trump enough time to prepare. But Trump's team said the trial should be pushed back until April 2026, after the presidential election, which Chutkan said is "far beyond what is necessary."

Trump's lead attorney John Lauro argued that the trial date set by Chutkan would deprive the former president of the opportunity to have "adequate representation".

"This is a request for a show trial, not a speedy trial," Lauro said. "Mr. Trump is not above the law, but he is not below the law."

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The March 4 date, when jury selection will begin, is the day before Super Tuesday, when more than a dozen states are scheduled to hold Republican primaries or caucuses.

"Trump is trying to manipulate the clock in two directions simultaneously: on one hand, he complains that the charges are too late and as such, are, in his telling, election interference, yet at the same time he asserts that the March trial date is too soon for him to mount a defense," James Sample, a Hofstra University constitutional law professor, told Salon.

But the date also collides with two other criminal cases against the former president. Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis has suggested a March 4 trial date for Trump regarding election tampering charges in that state and his trial in Manhattan, where Trump is facing over 30 felony charges linked to hush-money payments to a porn actress before the 2016 election, is slated to begin on March 25.

If the trial in Washington exceeds 11 weeks, it could overlap with Trump's other federal trial, on charges of illegally holding onto classified documents after leaving the White House and obstructing the government's efforts to retrieve them, according to The New York Times. The proceedings for this trial are scheduled to begin in Florida in late May, though court schedules frequently change.

"There is no perfect time for criminal charges against a former President and a current presidential candidate," Sample said. "The solution to his timing problems is one that he manifestly rejected via his actions  namely not to engage in the underlying conduct that led to the charges."

Chutkan acknowledged that she was aware of Trump's upcoming trial dates next year and his concurrent presidential campaign. However, she emphasized that she would not allow the overlap of his legal challenges and political candidacy to hinder the process of determining a date.

"If this case involved a professional athlete, it would be inappropriate to schedule a trial to accommodate her schedule," Chutkan said. "Mr. Trump will be treated with no more or less deference than any other defendant."

She added that there is a "societal interest to a speedy trial."

Following Chutkan's ruling in Washington, Trump said in a Truth Social post that he was planning to appeal her decision.

"Deranged Jack Smith & his team of Thugs, who were caught going to the White House just prior to Indicting the 45th President of the United States (an absolute No No!), have been working on this Witch Hunt for almost 3 years, but decided to bring it smack in the middle of Crooked Joe Biden's Political Opponent's campaign against him," Trump wrote. "Election Interference! Today a biased, Trump Hating Judge gave me only a two month extension, just what our corrupt government wanted, SUPER TUESDAY. I will APPEAL!"

In private discussions with his aides, the ex-president has been open about his desire to navigate his intricate legal challenges by securing victory in the election, The Times reported. If either of his two federal trials gets postponed until after the election and Trump ends up winning, he might explore the option of pardoning himself once in office or having his attorney general dismiss the cases entirely, according to the Times.

Want a daily wrap-up of all the news and commentary Salon has to offer? Subscribe to our morning newsletter, Crash Course.

"Trump's bombastic posts aside, there is no right to appeal his trial date," Sample said. "If he is convicted at trial, and then wants to assert, on appeal that he was not afforded adequate time to prepare a trial defense, he can make that argument. The fact is that the judicial system would collapse if every perfunctory, minute decision by every trial judge was immediately appealable. Given Trump's status as a frequent litigant he ought to know that."

Trump is facing three additional criminal lawsuits in New York and Georgia, as well as a federal indictment in Florida linked to his handling of classified materials.

Although Chutkan said that she had communicated with the judge overseeing the Manhattan case, it remains unclear how the judges and prosecutors would navigate arranging four criminal trials in the upcoming year while Trump remains busy campaigning.

Read more

about the Jan. 6 case
LEBANON, Tenn. (WKRN)  The Lebanon Police Department is investigating a possible incident of physical abuse that may have occurred at a daycare earlier this year.

The incident at Owls Nest Day Care on West Gay Street was reported to the police department last week and is alleged to have happened in February 2023.

CRIME TRACKER | Read the latest crime news from Middle Tennessee

Police said the suspect in the case is no longer employed by the daycare. No other details regarding the circumstances of the alleged physical abuse were immediately available.

The Lebanon Police Department is asking anyone with any information regarding the Feb. 2023 incident or other possible incidents at the daycare to contact Detective Nolan Gray at 615-453-4367 or nolan.gray@lebanontn.org.

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This is a developing story. WKRN News 2 will continue to update this article as new information becomes available.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRN News 2.
Leeds Festivals volunteer clean-up crew were left utterly appalled by the recent aftermath of the 2023 event, which took place over the bank holiday weekend (25 August to 27 August).

This year, the festival  which typically attracts 90,000 festivalgoers  featured headline acts including Billie Eilish, The Killers, The 1975, Sam Fender and Lewis Capaldi.

Following the festivals closing performances on Sunday (27 August), clean-up crews were deployed on Monday to try and salvage tents and equipment for a refugee charity, according to volunteer Jack Lowe.

In a video posted to X/Twitter showing the venues sprawling open space covered in discarded tents and trash, Lowe wrote: This is just a fraction of it  littering on the grandest scale weve ever witnessed.

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Its going to take us a while to digest what we saw, he added. Utterly appalling.

Lowe had volunteered to clear the site and dismantle tents on behalf of a north-east-based charity helping refugees in France, ITVX reports.

He also shared a link to the BBCs drone footage, which showed the scale of the festivals aftermath.

Its going to take us a while to digest what we saw when we went to help salvage tents and equipment for a refugee charity at the end of Leeds Festival yesterday.



This is just a fraction of it  littering on the grandest scale weve ever witnessed.



Utterly appalling. pic.twitter.com/vNWOjIul74  Jack Lowe (@MrJackLowe) August 29, 2023

Agreeing with one commenter who argued that festivalgoers werent entirely at fault, Lowe responded: The problem is the system that makes an industrial consumer society like ours.

Another person condemned festivalgoer behaviour, writing: Disgusting. If people cant tidy up after themselves, stop the festival until they learn.

Unfortunately, I dont get the sense that the festival care, Alfie. The only thing that matters is whether they made money. As ever, profits over planet, Lowe replied.

The Independent has contacted Festival Republic, the organisers of Reading and Leeds Festival, for comment.

On Saturday (26 August), the companys managing director Melvin Benn told ITV News: The message to festival goers all of the time is to try and look after the environment really.

We work really hard on making sure that people recycle and take their belongings home with them, he continued. Most people do, some people dont. Some people are untidy and we have to tidy up after them.

The festivals website advises people to buy a durable tent that you can use again each year and to say no to single-use, take your tent home!

The issue of abandoned tents and trash strewn about is something that the Leeds Festival faces every year. In 2019, environmental activist group Clean Up Britain proposed festivalgoers should pay a deposit of at least 25 to encourage them not to abandon their tents.

John Read, the groups founder, told The Independent at the time that he hoped the deposit scheme would prevent the very sad sight of seeing thousands of tents just abandoned in Reading and Leeds.
The search for the Loch Ness monster now stretches beyond 1,000 years, as the largest search in five decades happened on Saturday and Sunday in Scotland.

Hundreds of people gathered in person and joined a livestream to search for Nessie  the name of the legendary monster rumored to be lurking in Loch Ness. In 1972, the Loch Ness Investigation Bureau carried out a search for the monster, and this weekends search was the largest since that one was held, BBC reported.

For decades, boats and submarines have scanned the lake floor, searching for the monster to no avail. In 2019, researchers from New Zealand catalogued all species in the lake and no evidence of a prehistoric marine reptile called a plesiosaur or a large fish such as a sturgeon were found, per BBC.

As the recent search for the monster has drummed up interest in Nessie, heres a look at how the legend got started and similar legends in other places.

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Related

What is the Loch Ness monster?

The Loch Ness monster is a legendary monster from Scottish folklore. Legend has it the monster inhabits the lake called Loch Ness in the Scottish Highlands.

The Loch Ness monster is generally considered mythological or legendary. Some people have claimed to see the monster, but there hasnt been any physical evidence found.

In modern times, more than 1,000 people claim theyve seen Nessie, the name locals gave to the creature decades ago. Descriptions vary. Some say the creature resembles a salamander; others say a whale, or a seal, Michael A. Little wrote for The Conversation.

Whats the origin of the Loch Ness monster?

Legends say that the Loch Ness monster was created in anger by the Celtic Winter Queen, the goddess Dark Beira, or Cailleach Bheur, according to the Visit Loch Ness website.

The Pict, a group of ancient people who lived in the area now called Scotland, carved a mysterious beast with flippers into stone, per Britannica. Its possible this is an early depiction of Nessie.

Romans arrived in the area and described the monster as a strange beast with an elongated beak or muzzle, a head locket or spout, and flippers instead of feet, per Time magazine. Ancient Romans inherited legends of sea monsters like Cetus from the Greeks, so they had a legendary concept similar to Nessie.

Nessie is first mentioned (not by that name) in the biography of St. Columba (an Irish missionary who evangelized Christianity in the area), per the History Channel website. The exact date of the biography is disputed, but it was written sometime around 600 C.E., give or take 100 years.

St. Columba was said to have encountered Nessie attempting to attack someone and so he intervened. He commanded the monster to go back with all speed and the monster dissipated, according to the History Channel website.

Six centuries passed before there was another mention of a monster in the area. An English cleric, Walter of Bingham, drew a picture of the Loch Ness monster, which he depicted as a giant bear with a peculiar snout, per The New York Times.

While the Loch Ness monster became the stuff of legends, it wasnt until 1933 that the legend boomed and a slew of sightings were reported.

Loch Ness monster sightings

In April 1933, a couple saw an enormous animal  which they compared to a dragon or prehistoric monster  and after it crossed their cars path, it disappeared into the water. The incident was reported in a Scottish newspaper, and numerous sightings followed, The Scottish Maritime Museum reported.

Then, later that year, Marmaduke Wetherell was commissioned by the Daily Mail to search for the Loch Ness Monster, per The Scottish Maritime Museum. He found footprints, but these were determined to be made with an umbrella stand or ashtray that had a hippopotamus leg as a base.

The monsters fate was solidified as an internationally-known legend when physician Robert Wilson took a picture that appeared to be Nessie, per NPR. While a participant in the events leading up to the photograph confessed that it was staged, the Loch Ness monster became known around the world.

Research fellow Charles Paxton wrote for The Conversation that theres been 1,452 different sightings of the Loch Ness monster.

What does the Loch Ness monster look like?

Generally, sightings report the Loch Ness monster looks like a plesiosaur with an elongated neck and flippers.

Monsters like the Loch Ness monster

There are a number of legends of lake monsters similar to the Loch Mess monster.

The Bear Lake Monster in Bear Lake.

Mishipeshu in Lake Superior.

Champ in Lake Champlain.

Bessie in Lake Erie.

Tahoe Tessie in Lake Tahoe.
One-by-one they shared what Ronnie Grace means to them.

I would not be doing this work had Uncle Ronnie not taken me under his wing, said Justin Roby, director of finance and human resources for Diverse & Resilient, an LGBTQ+ support and advocacy organization.

Ronnie is the epitome of what a Black, gay man should be. Hes educated, loving, understanding, and all-inclusive, and hes never disrespected anyone on their journey, said Joshua Jones, a longtime friend.

Ronnie is a treasure to the community, and even now, he just keeps giving back and advising those seeking it, said Gerry Coon, director of grants and budget support at Diverse & Resilient.

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A Pride Month profile. 'He will forever be Uncle Ronnie:' A dancer, movie extra and beloved AIDS activist

At least a dozen people took to the stage at a recent community gathering to let Grace know how much he is appreciated and loved as he takes on the latest challenge in life: Stage 4 liver and bile cancer.

Like many, I was shocked when I heard the news. I met Grace over a decade ago when we discussed what it was like being a gay man living with HIV and how far treatments have come since the 1980s when he was first diagnosed. HIV went from being called a death sentence to a disease where medications are allowing people to live long, productive lives.

Grace is a HIV prevention program coordinator and peer navigator for Diverse & Resilient where he pushed for more testing and prevention. For those who are positive, he works to make sure they are on the proper medications and eat correctly. For those with negative results, he works with them to get on medication that helps prevent infections. HIV is a virus that attacks the body's immune system. If HIV is not treated, it can lead to AIDS, or acquired immunodeficiency syndrome.

We also discussed the stigma associated with HIV, something he's dedicated his life to reducing. HIV still disproportionately impacts young Black gay men. About 40% of young African American men who have sex with men are HIV positive. He is also a mentor and father figure to young gay men in Milwaukee struggling to figure things out.

Joshua Jones, left, who brought the house down singing Patti LaBelles You Are My Friend" at a community celebration honoring Ronnie Grace, poses for a photo with Grace.

An 'Energizer Bunny' attitude about battling HIV/AIDS

Roby, 32, said Grace took him out to eat and had a real heart-to-heart conversation that changed his life when he told him to apply for his position at Diverse & Resilient, a group that works to achieve health equity and improve the safety and well-being of Black and brown LGBTQ+ communities throughout southeastern Wisconsin.

He was already my mentor, but he gave me the confidence to apply when I didnt even think I was ready, and it changed my life because it allowed me to give back like he has for so many years. Since we first met, hes always treated me like family, which means even having difficult conversations when I wasnt doing what I was supposed to, Roby said.

Roby made a surprise announcement at the Aug. 20 gathering: the Libation Lounge, a room used as a community gathering space at Diverse & Resilient, would be renamed the Grace Lounge.

Coon credited Grace for helping to reduce HIV and sexually transmitted disease rates among young, Black gay men and improving the health outcomes of those living with HIV by serving as a role model. He called Grace a selfless person with an Energizer Bunny mentality regarding advocacy for the gay community.

Jones brought the house down when he sang Patti LaBelles You Are My Friend.

The thought of you helps me carry on.When I feel all hope is goneI see the world with brand-new eyes.Your love has made me realizeMy future looks bright to me,Oh, because you are my friend.

Jones, 35, said he chose to sing because Grace has been his friend since he was a teenager. Jones said that letting people know they are respected while they can receive that love is what friendship is all about.

Its a valuable lesson. If someone is going through something, tell them how much they mean to you because tomorrow is not promised.

Friends and family members talked about how Grace helped them in multiple ways, from being a shoulder to cry on to finding them housing when they were put out by family members when they came out. Giving Grace his flowers while he could appreciate them was beautiful, and I would like to see more acts of kindness like this in our city.

Grace didnt give a speech at the event. Instead, he soaked up all the accolades, dished out plenty of hugs, and shed a few tears. He plans to travel to MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston in mid-September for potentially life-saving cancer treatment.

Read more Pride Month profiles of Milwaukee LGBTQ+ elders:

Brenda Coley: Activism started at a young age

Janice Toy: Unconditional love helped launch a legendary performer

Tyra Neal: A trans pioneer, the first to legally change name in Wisconsin

Dynasty Scott: A nurse who celebrated and provides safe spaces for LGBTQ community

I just got out of the hospital today and came straight here, Grace told the crowd. This is why I survived and lived the life Ive lived for the last 20-plus years. Im just overjoyed right now; you dont know what this is doing for my spirit.

How to help: A Go-Fund-Me campaign is underway to help defray expenses for Grace's treatment in Texas.

James E. Causey started reporting on life in his city while still at Marshall High School through a Milwaukee Sentinel high school internship. He's been covering his hometown ever since, writing and editing news stories, projects and opinion pieces on urban youth, mental health, employment, housing and incarceration. Email him at jcausey@jrn.com; follow him on Twitter @jecausey.

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Milwaukee AIDS activist fought HIV stigma. Now he fights for his life
At a time when securing venture capital funds is not especially easy, Lighter Capital continues to provide non-dilutive funding, in the way of revenue-based financing, to technology startups.

The firm, led by Melissa Widner, CEO, was founded in 2010 and has since provided hundreds of millions dollars in financing via more than 1,100 rounds of growth capital without startups having to sell equity. It also surpassed $350 million in growth capital.

Lighter Capital designed its revenue-based financing model for tech companies in the SaaS, technology services, subscription services and digital media sectors that already have revenue and are growing. It offers adaptable payment terms, term financing featuring fixed monthly payments and contract financing.

Today, Lighter Capital is the latest firm to raise funding of its own  $130 million in capital commitments for a credit facility. The facility is backed by existing investors Apollo Global Management, i80 Group, Invest Victoria and iPartners, an Australian private credit fund.

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Alternative financing is a hot topic right now, and there are a number of companies in the U.S. offering revenue-based financing to SaaS companies, including Capchase, Pipe, Founderpath, Arc and, most recently, Efficient Capital Labs.

This is for a few reasons: One, which has been widely reported, is that venture capitalists pulled back on their funding in the past year. And two, more company founders are more aware that alternative financing is an option for them, especially following the Silicon Valley Bank collapse, Widner told TechCrunch.

One of the biggest challenges has been just educating companies that there is an alternative to dilutive financing, she said. Venture capital firms fund a really small percentage of technology companies, like 1% of technology companies, so in the last few years, people are starting to understand that you actually can get funding other than going down the VC path.

As a result, Lighter Capital saw more companies come to it that would have otherwise gone to a VC firm. Widner, who was a VC herself for two decades, said some companies didnt want to do a priced round in this market or were looking for non-dilutive funding. In addition, the firm was seeing companies come in already in pretty good shape, with around 24 months of runway, but wanted some extra cushion in the challenging economic times.

Widner described the firms inbound funnel as exploding, which led to 2022 being Lighter Capitals largest year ever in the history of the company.

The proceeds from Lighter Capitals new financing vehicle is expected to fund hundreds of early-stage companies across the U.S., Canada and Australia. It provides financing from $50,000 to $4 million with an average financing of $600,000.

SaaS revenue is generally predictable, Widner said. Weve spent more than a decade building technology to be able to predict a company's revenue, and we typically do a better job at predicting their revenue than companies do. Our financing rounds, or loans, are typically three years, so we're actually looking at being able to predict if the company's revenue is going to be sufficient to pay back the capital in three years.
WeatherTiger Idalia Impacts Forecast Video for August 28th Dr. Ryan Truchelut from WeatherTiger is talking the very latest surge, wind, and rain impacts expected across Central and Northern Florida from dangerous Idalia starting at 9 p.m. Posted by Tallahassee Democrat on Monday, August 28, 2023

At 9 p.m. Monday Meteorologist Ryan Truchelut with Tallahassee-based WeatherTiger offered a live analysis of the track and life-threatening impacts of Idalia, which is on a catastrophic collision course with Florida.

Idalia is expected to become a destructive Category 3 hurricane  or worse  as it closes in on the Big Bend and the state's Nature Coast.

Truchelut went up on Facebook Live at 9 p.m. on Facebook pages throughout the USA TODAY NETWORK - Florida, including the Tallahassee Democrat, Panama City News-Herald, Gainesville Sun, Lakeland Ledger, Sarasota Herald-Tribune, Naples Daily News, and Fort Myers News-Press. The stream also appears on this page.

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In his latest forecast, Truchelut warns that "no matter the precise track, Idalia will be a surge event unlike any hurricane in the modern era for west-central Florida." Read it here.

COLLECTION OF COVERAGE

This article originally appeared on Tallahassee Democrat: Live hurricane forecast: Idalia's latest track, storm surge, impacts
Thousands of homes were lost in the fire that destroyed the town of Lahaina on Maui. Hawaii has the highest cost of the living in the nation, and many evacuees worry they won't be able to find affordable housing. (Jae C. Hong / Associated Press)

Since the Lahaina fire incinerated her apartment, Tatiana Kamelamela-Liua has been at a crossroads.

A lifelong inhabitant of the islands who is of Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander heritage, she knows no home but Hawaii and feels close to "the aloha of the community that you can't find anywhere else."

But she's afraid that the tourism that sustains her family won't return and that after thousands of homes were lost in the deadly fire on Maui, they won't find an affordable place to live.

That's what led Kamelamela-Liua, 26, to broach a previously unthinkable question.

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"I asked my husband if we should move to Vegas," she said, suggesting the couple and their toddler could create a new life in the desert city affectionately called "the ninth island" for its large population of Hawaiians and former Hawaii residents.

"We have family there," Kamelamela-Liua said. "It's cheaper. And they have a ton of hotels to work in."

Read more: Fearing economic disaster, Maui wants tourists to return. But feelings are complicated

The allure of the mainland has long won over people from the state with the nation's highest cost of living. Now, experts fear the fire and the redevelopment that follows could speed up gentrification of Maui and the outward migration, in particular for Native Hawaiians, a group that includes many of the state's poorest.

In Lahaina, where 12% of all people lived below the poverty line and 1 out of 10 inhabitants were Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islanders, many evacuees have already left for the mainland or are considering it, according to interviews with survivors, social welfare experts and economists and remarks by government officials.

Others are waiting to decide, hoping that tourism  Maui's dominant industry that's now at a fraction of its pre-fire levels  will bounce back. The island accounts for 31% of visitors to Hawaii, where nearly a fifth of all tourism workers are Native Hawaiian, according to state government data. According to the Maui Economic Development Board, tourism is responsible for about 70% of all money generated in Maui County.

Read more: Should you visit Maui right now? What locals want from tourists as the island rebuilds

"It would be potentially catastrophic if no one traveled to the island," Hawaii Gov. Josh Green said during a recent news conference. "We would probably see a mass exodus from Maui."

About half of the island's hotel rooms are sitting empty, even with evacuees and emergency personnel staying in many.

The trends are clear to Kamelamela-Liua at the Hyatt Residence Club in Kaanapali, where the former Ritz-Carlton employee is staying with her hotel restaurant-worker husband and young son in one of several rooms offered to evacuees for 30 days. She would rather continue to live on the island after her time is up. But Kamelamela-Liua isn't sure the family can keep up with housing costs.

Read more: Mapping how the Maui fires destroyed Lahaina

Before the fire, the median monthly rent in Lahaina for a two-bedroom apartment was $171 above the $1,450 she paid at the low-income housing development of Lahaina Surf. She is also considering whether to resettle on Oahu, where she grew up and has family, but rents are high there too. In Clark County, Nev., where Las Vegas is located, the median rent for a two-bedroom is about $1,166. And there is no state income tax.

"We know people who have made the move before, and there are definitely people doing it now," said Kamelamela-Liua, who plans to return to the hotel industry when her child is older. For now, she's launched a GoFundMe for a potential move.

If the fear of an exodus from Maui is realized, it would worsen an ongoing trend. According to census data, Hawaii was among the 10 states to lose the largest share of people between April 2020 and July 2022. Last year, on average, 26 more people moved away per day from Hawaii than moved in, according to the census.

The departures were fueled by the lingering effects of the early stages of the pandemic, when high unemployment, decimated tourism and rising prices created a worst-case scenario.

With 3 in 10 residents out of work during 2020's tourism slowdown, Maui County had one of the worst jobless rates in the country and one that remained stubbornly high for longer than on the mainland. The number of visitors to Hawaii, which surpassed 10 million in 2019, still has not returned to pre-pandemic levels.

And as COVID-19 brought an influx of wealthy remote workers looking for a paradisial escape, Hawaii's already high housing prices rose by 35% from 2019 to 2022, the University of Hawaii Economic Research Organization found.

"Hawaii doesn't build enough housing and the housing costs way too much compared to what people here make," said Justin Tyndall, an assistant professor of economics at the university who is co-author of the research. "That has been an issue since before Lahaina. But this is now going to make things worse. For many people, there will be no option but to leave."

Tyndall predicted that Native Hawaiians could be hit harder because they tend to have lower incomes and play an outsize role in the tourism industry. Well over a third of Native Hawaiians in the state work in jobs connected to tourism. Many already have strong diaspora communities built up over generations across the U.S. West.

Today, fewer than half of the 680,000 people in the U.S. who identify as Native Hawaiian alone or in combination with another race live in Hawaii, according to the census. So many live on the western mainland that the Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement this year held its first regional convention in Las Vegas. In addition to Nevada, another top destination for those who move from Hawaii  Native or not  is California.

"Don't get me wrong, Hawaii is paradise. You miss the ocean. You miss the food. The mainland has its pretty parts, sure, but it is nothing like Hawaii," said Emory Nihipali, who runs "Little Grass Shack," a weekly Hawaiian music show on KUNV 91.5 FM in Las Vegas that he launched 24 years ago.

"But in exchange for dealing with the heat and everything else, there is just more on the mainland," said Nihipali, 52, who spent part of his childhood on Oahu, Molokai and the Big Island and is of Hawaiian, Japanese, Chinese and Irish heritage. "We Hawaiians have big families, so even the grocery store trips are cheaper. Things add up and I think that's why you see more and more people moving in, not just to Vegas but everywhere. You have to work three or four jobs in some parts of Hawaii to make it. On the mainland, you can actually buy a home. A house."

Read more: After Lahaina fire, 16 relatives crowd into one Maui house

In Lahaina, the median gross rent  for homes with any number of bedrooms  increased at nearly double the rate of the nation as a whole between 2015 and 2021, according to the census. The median 2021 gross rent in Lahaina was about the same as in California, just shy of $1,700.

As housing prices rose, so did poverty.

The number of people in Hawaii who lived in poverty grew from 9% in 2018 to 15% four years later, according to an analysis by Aloha United Way. The organization found Native Hawaiians had the highest rate of poverty at 27%. And it said that nearly half the state's population was above official poverty levels but could not make basic ends meet.

"The pandemic absolutely drove more people into poverty that they've a hard time getting out of," said Suzanne Skjold, the Honolulu-based chief operating officer of Aloha United Way. "The pressures were already hard on families in Hawaii, many who were living paycheck to paycheck, and our fear is that it will be very hard to stay [on Maui] and rebuild for many families."

Those are concerns shared by Sebastian Martinez, a 25-year-old restaurant worker who has booked a one-way ticket to the mainland for Friday after escaping the fire that destroyed his Lahaina apartment.

"There are no jobs here, no tourism here," said Martinez, who is fundraising online to cover his initial payments on a rental in Las Vegas.

"I grew up in Lahaina. I never planned to leave. But my restaurant is closed and I feel like I have no choice but to go while I can," said Martinez, the son of a Mexican immigrant who came to Maui 30 years ago to work as a chef. He plans to move on his own to secure a job before flying his father, girlfriend and child over.

Read more: In Lahainas torched rubble, a morbid task falls to tireless L.A. cadaver dogs

Not everyone is set yet on leaving.

Since losing the Lahaina apartment he had rented with his girlfriend, musician and fishing store co-owner Sterling Seaton has stayed with his parents in Wailuku, on the other side of the island.

The fire didn't reach his shop, a few miles north of his apartment. But he's concerned about whether his customers, half of them tourists, will flock back. His girlfriend, who works on cruise ships and runs a photography business, is also starting anew after the fire destroyed her cameras.

"My girlfriend and I have talked at length about possibly moving, well before the disaster, to the mainland just for more opportunities. Like being able to not stress so much with day-to-day expenses," said Seaton, 35, who has considered going to California or Washington state, where he has relatives. "So this might be the time to transition."

For Camille DeRego, a resident of the Honokowai area, a few miles north of Lahaina, the decision is to stay and help in the rebuilding.

The fire left her without her main job as a luau host and traditional Hawaiian dancer in Lahaina, though the condo she shares with her husband was far from the burn zone. She still has her second job at the Marriott, where she is a concierge for resort properties.

"All my friends lost their homes and 90% of my co-workers did, said DeRego, whose workplace of 15 years  the Feast at Lele luau on Front Street  no longer exists. A Native Hawaiian who grew up in Wailuku, DeRego, 35, said she was already worried about overdevelopment on the island and in Lahaina before the fire. Now, she's concerned the area will change even faster.

It wasn't just the costs going up but the character of our home. The development of the land over my lifetime has become unsustainable, and we are using up our natural resources. We have areas that used to be forest that are now barren," DeRego said. "So, it's not surprising that I hear of people who are thinking of packing up."

Kamelamela-Liua is torn about whether to stay.

"Taking it day by day," she said. She's not only worried about job prospects on Maui but also environmental dangers. "We don't want our child to grow up somewhere where a fire like this could happen again. But Hawaii is also our home. We want him to know his home, not a faraway place that's dry and landlocked and feels nothing like home."

Still, she said, moving across the Pacific "does look appealing."

Times staff writer Christopher Reynolds contributed to this report.

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
A little piece of Los Angeles' Chicano history is coming to Utah.

El Cholo, which claims to be LA's oldest Mexican restaurant, is opening its first location outside of California in Sugar House next month.

The family-run restaurant was established in 1923 by owner Ron Salisbury's grandparents, Alejandro and Rosa Borquez. It's since become a staple in LA, and the family has opened five more locations in California.

"They were just this young couple who came from the territory of Arizona to Los Angeles. All they wanted to do really was the American dream, which was to create a business they could be proud of and create a good life for themselves. And it succeeded," Salisbury said. "My parents did the same thing and that's all we've ever been. We've had his wonderful loving relationship with the city and the people in LA, and I just hope to continue on with people in Utah."

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Salisbury said the family has never gone looking for restaurants, but each location was an opportunity they came across that felt right. The Salt Lake City location is no different.

"Utah checked off a whole bunch of boxes," he said, pointing to the Sugar House location and Utah workforce. "I just see a great opportunity for a Mexican restaurant with the history that we have. I can't imagine a better opportunity."

The restaurant, located at 2166 South and 900 East, is slated to open in late September. The Sugar House location, which has roof-top seating offering views of the Wasatch Mountains, will have a menu that mirrors the California location. Those dishes include a variety of enchiladas, green corn tamales, fajitas and tacos.

Salisbury, who attended Brigham Young University in the '50s, also owns a second home in Utah and has children living in the Beehive State. His great-grandfather was a Latter-day Saint pioneer who helped settle Utah in the 1800s. So why the decision to expand to Utah at this moment?

"Well, I'm 90 years old, so I don't know why I'm doing this," Salisbury joked. "Other than it's kind of fun to say at 90, I can still do things like this."
WEST PALM BEACH  Abe Haruvi is unhappily married and doing everything he can to stay that way.

He and Giovana Stephenson aren't your typical quarrelsome couple. The Palm Beach spouses trade insults across courtrooms and would sooner pay a celebrity lawyer to settle their disputes than a marriage counselor. Each move, carefully orchestrated and handsomely funded, pushes the couple one step closer toward ending their relationship  in principle, but not on paper.

Both have a $60 million incentive to stay married, thanks to what one lawyer called the most "insane" prenuptial agreement he's ever seen. With Stephenson unwilling to forfeit the money, she's enlisted attorneys to find other ways to break up their marriage.

Related: Millionaire couple's 'insane' prenup pact spawns family court brawl where a divorce is not a divorce

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A judge in West Palm Beach squashed her latest attempt in July, denying an unusual request for alimony and child support from a man to whom she is still married. Stephenson has vowed to appeal the decision while fending off a countersuit from her husband. He wants her to pay for accusing him of abuse his lawyer says never happened.

"There's got to be some kind of accountability for what has happened to me," Haruvi said.

Husband says prenup poisoned Palm Beach couple's relationship

Real estate investor Abe Haruvi during a court hearing in November.

Stephenson accused her husband of domestic battery in 2021, launching the first of several legal battles with the couple's children, money and real estate at stake. Haruvi was court-ordered to stay out of the home and away from his children while authorities investigated Stephenson's claims that he scratched her during a fight on Dec. 9, 2021.

Stephenson described her husband as a heavy drinker who was both physically and emotionally cruel, but Haruvi's lawyer said she made up the allegations to cash in on the couple's prenuptial agreement.

Woven into the marital contract is a penalty clause. If Haruvi cheats on Stephenson, abuses her or just wants to be single again, she gets the couples $50 million house and another $10 million in cash and assets. If he doesn't, and she divorces him anyway, the $60 million package disappears.

"You will never see a case like this again," said Haruvi's lawyer, Jeff Fisher. "It's a unicorn."

For Subscribers: In push to reduce violence, use of Florida's red-flag law to remove guns skyrockets

While the domestic battery case made its way through criminal court, Stephenson filed a separate action in civil court seeking to keep Haruvi out of their waterside mansion and away from their kids indefinitely. Stephenson enlisted their 9-year-old son and 12-year-old daughter to write letters to the judge describing bruises on their mother's arm and concerning behavior from their father.

"My dad screams at her a lot for no reason, always gaslights her and calls her really horrible things," the eldest child wrote. "He also cancels her credit card whenever he wants to threaten her."

Two Palm Beach County judges and one jury side with husband against wife

Giovana Stephenson, who is married to real estate investor Abe Haruvi, testifies during a hearing in November.

Circuit Judge Melanie Surber refused Stephenson's request to make the temporary restraining order against Haruvi permanent in March 2022, citing the wife's "ever-changing" testimony. A jury acquitted her husband of the domestic battery charge next, though Stephenson argued in her latest lawsuit that her allegations alone meant that her husband had breached the terms of their prenuptial agreement.

Neither that nor her request for alimony and child support on the grounds that Haruvi doesn't support the lavish lifestyle Stephenson is accustomed to were successful.

"This is not a case where the husband financially or otherwise abandoned the wife and children, nor is it a case where he has failed to provide them with support," wrote Circuit Court Judge Darren Shull. "Rather, the husband initially was forced out of his home ... based upon a claim of domestic battery by the wife which she was unable to prove by either a clear and convincing evidence in the domestic violence injunction hearing, or beyond a reasonable doubt in the criminal case."

Haruvi has accused his wife of malicious prosecution in a separate suit and is seeking more than $1 million in damages. Still, he hasn't given up hope that the pair might mend their relationship before they end it. They were once in love, after all.

"I truly believe time can heal all," he said.

There's $60 million on the line if it doesn't.

Hannah Phillips is a journalist covering public safety and criminal justice at The Palm Beach Post. You can reach her at hphillips@pbpost.com.

This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Abe Haruvi, Giovana Stephenson Palm Beach divorce, prenup details
Between November 2021 and July 2023, 15 people died while in the custody of the Louisville Metro Department of Corrections.

In that same period, 16 jail employees  almost all of them officers  were fired or resigned in lieu of termination as a result of misconduct, discipline records obtained by The Courier Journal under Kentuckys open records law show.

As people were dying at LMDC  largely by suicides and overdoses  officers were allegedly involved in plots to smuggle contraband into the troubled downtown jail, the documents show.

Others were engaging in inappropriate relationships with incarcerated people, receiving phone calls from them and having romantic and sexually explicit conversations.

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There were also excessive and improper uses of force, with officers at one point dragging a handcuffed man through a puddle of urine.

Between staff, there were repeated incidents of sexual harassment that, investigators concluded, created a hostile work environment for women working at the jail.

Weve always heard of misconduct going on, from sexual harassment to potentially officers bringing in contraband, said Kungu Njuguna, a policy strategist with the ACLU of Kentucky. It is great to see that there has been some accountability for those incidences and that [LMDC Director Jerry Collins] is willing to fire folks and change the culture within LMDC.

Metro Corrections turned down a request to interview Collins, who took over in April 2022.

However, speaking to The Courier Journal in June, Collins portrayed the terminations and resignations in lieu of termination as part of an effort to change the culture at LMDC.

A lot of folks that didnt need to be here were being ... let go, he said. That stuffs not fun for me. But for the good of the folks that are working here, we want that environment.

Improper relationships, plots to smuggle drugs

Supporters from the ACLU and community groups hold signs with the names of those who died in custody. Oct. 4, 2022 (Credit: Matt Stone/Courier Journal)

In April 2022, shortly after Collins started and a few weeks after another overdose death at LMDC, Officer Cynthia Kosman was texting with an acquaintance of an incarcerated person about meeting up.

Dude just called me, the acquaintance wrote to Kosman, according to investigators. Ima meet up with him when he get off then wen u get off u gotta come meet me so I can give u the bag and the bread.

Kosman told her shed meet up after work, telling the woman it was a 40-minute drive for her.

The woman wrote to Kosman that she had never done anything similar before, "... and Ima b honest with you Im kinda nervous.

Investigators said the acquaintance and the incarcerated person had had numerous jail phone calls where they discussed Kosman smuggling contraband into the facility.

Later, Kosman would deny there was a plot to smuggle contraband.

I did meet up with her, but I got food, because she worked at a restaurant, Kosman told investigators. There was no bag or bread.

The day after those text exchanges about the meet up, Kosman texted the acquaintance, writing can you let him know its NOT happening anytime soon. Its HOT outside. The stars look great under a microscope.

According to an internal affairs investigation, Kosman appeared to develop a romantic relationship with the incarcerated man in this case and told investigators she knew him for two years before joining LMDC.

When he was held at Oldham Countys jail at one point, she transferred money to his mother for his commissary account and video chatted with him while in her LMDC uniform and on break.

Investigators said Kosman communicated with friends, family and acquaintances of six different incarcerated people  as well as with people locked up directly.

Over the span of nearly three years, her phone received 96 calls from incarcerated people, according to LMDC investigators.

Another incarcerated person, in an April 26, 2022, phone call with his childs mother, discussed getting a package for Kosman to pick up and bring into the jail. The pair used a nickname investigators said referred to Kosman and mentioned her phone number. They talked about getting Kosman a package with tobacco, matches and Suboxone to bring into the jail.

Kosman, 29, would deny smuggling drugs into the jail. An incarcerated person told Louisville Metro Police investigators that she never brought anything into the jail and that she wanted to be paid for smuggling contraband.

Kosman resigned from LMDC on Feb. 13.

Two months later, she was arrested for promoting contraband, conspiring to promote contraband and official misconduct. According to court records, she pleaded guilty to a lesser misdemeanor charge of official misconduct and had her contraband charges dismissed.

She was sentenced to conditional discharge, meaning she will not be incarcerated unless she faces additional charges or violates conditions. As part of those conditions, Kosman is not to seek employment with any law enforcement agency.

In response to a request for comment from The Courier Journal, Casey McCall, an attorney for Kosman, said there is no evidence of promoting contraband.

Other alleged plots to smuggle contraband

Kosman was not the only jail employee allegedly involved in plots to smuggle contraband.

In 2022, LMDC investigators listened to phone calls between an incarcerated person and a civilian employee, where the pair discussed the jail employee bringing a present inside the jail. In one call, the incarcerated person told the employee the package will be small and to put it in (a body cavity). They suggested the employee pass it to them through a food slot on a cell door.

That employee resigned in June 2022.

There is no indication in the findings summary provided to The Courier Journal that investigators probed whether drugs or other contraband were smuggled into the jail. Instead, LMDC determined the employee had violated the jails employee code of ethics and conduct.

In late December, LMDC investigators received another tip an officer was smuggling drugs.

They found phone calls from an incarcerated man to her while she was off the clock. They also found phone calls between that incarcerated man and an unidentified person where the pair discussed smuggling jumpsuits  a term LMDC said is slang for Suboxone, a combination of two drugs that helps reduce the severity of opioid withdrawal.

The officer resigned within days of the probe. While investigators determined she had an inappropriate relationship with an incarcerated person, there is no indication in the documents provided to The Courier Journal they looked into whether she conspired to smuggle drugs into the facility.

Sexual harassment among officers

On June 23, 2022  just three weeks after LMDC Officer Ramon Skaggs was found to have sexually harassed a colleague by running his hands through her hair without permission  he became the subject of another sexual harassment probe.

This time, however, it was five additional women describing how Skaggs had touched their hair.

LMDC investigators dismissed the allegations of three of the women, finding no evidence the events occurred and in one determining the contact to be consensual after reviewing sexually explicit text messages between a woman and Skaggs.

However, investigators concluded Skaggs had inappropriately touched two women.

One, a nurse, described the fear she felt after Skaggs touched her hair when he allegedly followed her into a hallway that had no cameras.

I thought I was going to have a panic attack and die right there, because I didnt know what his intentions were, she told investigators.

Another, a fellow corrections officer, said Skaggs told her he had a hair fetish, although Skaggs denied saying this in interviews with investigators.

It does not appear that Officer Skaggs conducted himself in a respectful and courteous manner with these individuals or in a way that could promote mutual respect between them, investigators wrote. It is reasonable to believe that the inappropriate behavior of Officer Skaggs would interfere with their job performance and create an intimidating, hostile or offensive work environment for them.

Collins terminated Skaggs in February. Separately, Skaggs is being sued by the woman who brought forth the earlier harassment investigation.

An attorney for Skaggs did not respond to requests for comment.

In an April report commissioned by Metro Council, former FBI agent David Beyer wrote that "there seems to have developed a culture whereby sexual harassment is not seen as inappropriate" at LMDC.

One of the women that LMDC determined Skaggs had inappropriately touched also launched a complaint against another officer over harassment, saying he picked her up and physically carried her away after she told an incarcerated work aide to move away from a cells food slot, fearing they could be moving contraband.

In picking her up, the officer said her colleague grabbed me through the legs, had his forearm sitting on my vaginal area, and his hand grabbed my inner thigh.

Investigators wrote the officers action created a hostile work environment. He was terminated in November.

Another officer, a white woman, resigned in lieu of termination after she was accused of using a racial slur against another corrections officer. She denied using a slur, but according to investigators she admitted she says a lot of inappropriate stuff while goofing off that if said to the right person could be taken racial.

Excessive use of force

LMDC officers were also terminated for using excessive force on people under their watch.

In a December 2021 incident, an officer struck an incarcerated man approximately 40 times in the head and body and made little effort to temper the amount of force. Investigators wrote he did not give the man time to comply with his orders to surrender his hands and that the incarcerated man was attempting to protect himself from the barrage of strikes by covering his head, the main target of the strikes.

Investigators noted that the officer involved, Daniel Wells, was a member of LMDCs Special Operations Response Team, which is tasked with handling disruptive prisoners and unrest.

The case, investigators said, was referred to the FBI, who returned it to LMDC in January of this year. Wells resigned in June.

The man who was subjected to the beating filed a federal lawsuit against LMDC, Wells and other officers. In that lawsuit, the man states that officers threatened him, telling him if he told a nurse treating him how he got injured, they would beat him again. The lawsuit claims that despite a nurse determining the man potentially had broken ribs and head trauma, he was not sent to a hospital for a week.

Attorneys for Wells did not respond to requests for comment.

Other officers lost their jobs over uses of force, as well.

In March of this year, a lieutenant used force on an incarcerated person and forced him to the ground after claiming he spit in his face. Investigators, however, determined it was more likely than not that the lieutenant was not spit on after reviewing video footage of the incident.

The lieutenant was not wearing a body camera at the time, telling investigators it had gone missing a few weeks prior.

In May, Collins terminated him.

In a third incident that occurred in March 2022, two officers handcuffed an incarcerated man and dragged him through a puddle of urine on the floor of a cell. Investigators found the man did not resist being handcuffed and concluded that it is more likely than not the dragging of the incarcerated person through urine was premeditated.

Another officer sounded the alarm on the misconduct. Had he not, investigators wrote, this incident may have not ever been reported nor discovered.

The two officers involved in that incident resigned in July 2022.

Some of the documents obtained by The Courier Journal outlined misconduct that was not related to use of force, smuggling contraband or harassment.

One officer resigned after an investigation found he regularly skipped his shifts to work at area Kroger supermarkets. He resigned in November 2022.

Another officer was terminated after being pulled over in Indiana with marijuana in their car. He claimed it was not his, but then failed a drug test and was terminated in February.

Asked by investigators why he failed the drug test, the officer said: Just seeing those deaths in the jail and going home, still seeing the same thing, because Ive still got family overdosing, and Ive still got family killing their selves.

Reach reporter Josh Wood at jwood@courier-journal.com or on Twitter at @JWoodJourno.

This article originally appeared on Louisville Courier Journal: Louisville jail guards engaged in misconduct amid surge in deaths
JACKSONVILLE, Fla.  What Lt. Antonio Bailey called a normal day on the campus of Edward Waters University on Saturday turned frightening when a car full of students pulled up beside his car. They said they were concerned about a white man they saw in the faculty and staff parking lot at the rear of the historically Black universitys grounds.

The man had put on a bulletproof vest, gloves and a mask. Alarmed, the students found Bailey, a public safety officer who was making his routine rounds canvasing the campus.

Bailey got right into action, he said Monday at a news conference at the university. He said he approached the man, and when he saw how the man was dressed, he recalled wondering: What are you doing here? Somethings wrong.

When the man, later identified as Ryan Palmeter, 21, saw Bailey in uniform, he sped off, jumping a curb and exiting the campus at a high rate of speed, Bailey said.

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Getting the man off campus moved the nearly 1,200 students from potential victims to safety.

Lt. Bailey is our hero, school president A. Zachery Faison Jr. said at the news conference.

Lt. Antonio Bailey, a safety officer at Edward Waters University, in Jacksonville, Fla., on Aug. 28, 2023. (NBC News)

Bailey, soft spoken and appearing uncomfortable in the spotlight, rebuffed that notion. Im no hero, he said. If anything, its the students who alerted me so I could do my job.

His job did not end with confronting Palmeter, who would later shoot and kill three Black people a few blocks from campus at a Dollar General store. Bailey pursued Palmeter in his car down Kings Road, the major street that leads to the campus, and down a few side streets.

But as a campus officer, policy allows him to follow a suspect only to a certain point.

We have outstanding protocols, he said. But I wish I had more authority to detain and pursue.

Following campus police practices, Bailey, who has worked at EWU for 18 months, alerted a Jacksonville sheriff and shared the mans license plate. A short time later, Bailey learned of the shootings.

When he realized the same man he had diverted from campus was the killer, he said he felt saddened. After a pause, he repeated: Just saddened. It was a tragedy.

The shooter may not have intended to attack the school, Jacksonville Sheriff T. K. Waters said Sunday. It looks to me that he went there to change into whatever he needed to change into, he said. He had the opportunity to do violence at EWU; he did not. There were people very close, in very close proximity. He did not do anything there, he backed out and he left.

Faison, the university president, however, was careful in trying not to contradict Waters, but did point out that the killer left behind a rant in which he wrote that we want to kill n------, Faison said, spelling out the N-word. He could have gone anywhere in Jacksonville. It wasnt by happenstance that he chose to come to Floridas first historically Black college. It wasnt on a whim. He came to where he thought African Americans would be, and thats Floridas first HBCU. This is the heart of the Black community in Jacksonville.

Many students are having a hard time with the notion that a killer was in such close proximity, Faison said, adding, Theres a high level of apprehension.

The school has provided round-the-clock access to counseling.

I dont even want to think about it if this racist had started shooting on campus. Thinking about it makes me sick, said Romana Hall, an Edward Waters University graduate who works as an attorney in the area. When our students arent safe on campus, well, weve reached a new low. This cant happen. Im so sad for the victims and their families. And its sobering that those students did the right thing by contacting security and the officers acted immediately and got him away from the school.

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis said the state would donate $1 million to the university to ramp up security on campus.

As I said for the last couple days, we are not going to allow our HBCUs to be targeted by these people, and so were going to provide security help with them, DeSantis said during a briefing on Tropical Storm Idalia.

The Florida Department of Law Enforcement was on campus Monday, Faison said, to assess where to best spend the resources.

Faison said he was grateful that the schools safety practices worked, with the students alerting safety officers of suspicious behavior. To Bailey, Faison said: Your actions are beyond commendable and they will resonate not just for today but for generations to come. . . We have attempted to create a culture of caring among our student body that champions, See something, say something, And our students acceptance and integration of that culture into their university experience surely saved countless lives.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
An Atlantic puffin brings a beak full of baitfish to feed its chick in a burrow under rocks on Eastern Egg Rock, a small island off mid-coast Maine, Sunday, Aug. 5, 2023. Scientists who monitor seabirds said Atlantic puffins had their second consecutive rebound year for fledging chicks after suffering a bad 2021. (AP Photo/Robert F. Bukaty)

EASTERN EGG ROCK, Maine (AP)  On remote islands off the Maine coast, a unique bird held its own this year in the face of climate change.

Atlantic puffins  clownish seabirds with colorful bills and waddling gaits  had their second consecutive rebound year for fledging chicks after suffering a catastrophic 2021, said scientists who monitor the birds. The news flies in the face of environmental trends, as scientists have said warming waters off New England jeopardize the birds because that reduces the kind of fish they need to feed their chicks.

One fish, though  the sand lance  has remained in abundance this year, allowing puffins to thrive, said Don Lyons, director of conservation science at National Audubon Societys Seabird Institute in Bremen, Maine. He said its a sign the impact of climate change on ecosystems is not always as tidy as we think.

The encouraging news comes as the Audubon Society is celebrating its 50th anniversary of tending to Maine's puffin colonies, which it restored from just a few dozen pairs. There are now as many as 3,000 birds, and the population is stable, Lyons said.

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This year is a good example of how complex things are. We can't boil it down to one variable, he said. We still have a lot to learn.

The puffins  also known as clowns of the sea or sea parrots  nest in burrows and feed their chicks small fish such as herring. Two years ago, the colonies suffered one of their worst years for reproduction in decades due to a lack of those fish. Only about a quarter of the birds were able to raise chicks that summer.

Audubon and other conservation groups have tied the fish shortage to warming ocean temperatures. The Gulf of Maine, which has puffin colonies on its islands, is warming faster than most of the world's oceans, and some recent years have been especially warm. The early part of this summer appears to have been still unusually warm, said David Reidmiller, climate center director at Gulf of Maine Research Institute in Portland, Maine.

About two-thirds of the puffins fledged chicks last year, Lyons said. The birds did not equal that number this year, he said, but they again had a better year than 2021 despite a less than ideal summer of hot, rainy conditions.

The puffins' ability to reproduce despite environmental changes speaks to the resiliency of seabirds, said Bill Sydeman, president and chief scientist of the Farallon Institute, a marine preservation organization based in California. However, the long-term dangers posed by climate change  such as fatal heat waves, loss of food, loss of islands to sea level rise and inability to breed  remain existential threats to puffins and many other seabirds, he said.

The problem with climate change is these breeding failures and low breeding productivity years are now becoming chronic, Sydeman said. There will be fewer young birds in the population that are able to recruit into the breeding population.

Maine's puffins are the only breeding Atlantic puffins in the U.S. Worldwide, the species lives in the North Atlantic from Maine and Canada to Europe. Other countries with large puffin populations, such as Iceland, have seen the birds decline in number in recent decades.

The Maine puffin population once dwindled to only about 70 pairs on tiny Matinicus Rock. Hunters who pursued the birds for their meat and feathers had nearly wiped them out by the early 1900s. Stephen Kress, an Audubon ornithologist, sought to grow puffin colonies starting in the 1970s by relocating chicks from Canada to Eastern Egg Rock, another tiny island.

Today, puffins live on Matinicus as well as Eastern Egg Rock, Seal Island and Petit Manan Island. On a recent trip to Eastern Egg Rock, located off St. George, dozens of puffins delighted tour boats as they took off in flight and dove into the water in pursuit of fish.

The adult birds in the colonies appear fairly robust, and it's "likely the population is stable, and it could still be growing, Lyons said.

The effects of climate change on seabirds have been a focus of scientific inquiry in recent years. Interest in the subject has accelerated because of die-offs of some of the puffin's auk family relatives, such ascommon murres and Cassin's auklets off the West Coast.

The challenges faced by seabirds make successful breeding seasons especially important, said P. Dee Boersma, a University of Washington professor of biology and director of the university's Center for Ecosystem Sentinels.

What that means is we should be more cautious and concerned about reproductive failures and things like that to make sure that in good years everyone that wants to has a chance to breed, and do well, Boersma said.



Follow Patrick Whittle on X, formerly Twitter: @pxwhittle

___

Associated Press climate and environmental coverage receives support from several private foundations. See more about APs climate initiative here. The AP is solely responsible for all content.
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The Russian Federal Security Service (FSB) said Monday it has charged a former U.S. consulate employee with spying on information about Russia's special military operation in Ukraine.

The FSB said in a statement that it "stopped the illegal activities" of an informant of the U.S. embassy in Moscow, Russian citizen Robert Shonov, who was a former employee at the U.S. Consulate General in Vladivostok.

Shonov is accused of collecting information for the U.S. Embassy about the course of Russia's special military operation in Ukraine, including on mobilization processes in Russia's regions, and on potential "problematic aspects" that could spur protest sentiment in the country ahead of the presidential elections.

The FSB has charged Shonov with committing a crime under Article 275.1 of the Russian Criminal Code which punishes cooperation on a confidential basis with a foreign state.

It said Shonov passed information to two U.S. diplomats working at the political department of the embassy, adding that they would be questioned as part of the investigation.
The murder trial of an El Paso man accused in the 2021 beating death of his wife's boyfriend in an El Paso International Airport's employee parking lot began Monday.

Bernard Walter Christmann is facing one count of murder in connection with the death of 49-year-old Juan R. Anzaldo on Nov. 19, 2021.

Christmann's trial began Monday, Aug. 28, in the 243rd District Court at the Enrique Moreno County Courthouse in Downtown El Paso, court records show. Judge Selena Solis is presiding over the trial.

State prosecutors John Briggs and Michelle Hill are trying the case, while defense attorneys Brock Benjamin and Bryan Herrera are representing Christmann.

Bernard Walter Christmann is accused of killing Juan R. Anzaldo, 49, on Nov. 19, 2021, in an employee parking lot at El Paso International Airport.

Christmann has remained jailed at the El Paso County Jail since he was arrested Dec. 3, 2021, on suspicion of murder, jail logs show. His bond was set at $1.25 million.

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Christmann was allegedly tracking Anzaldo, who was dating Christmann's estranged wife for about a year, and waited for him in the airport employee parking lot, a complaint affidavit states.

Anzaldo and Christmann's wife were Southwest Airlines employees. She was not at the airport at the time of the attack, the affidavit states.

Anzaldo left work and was walking to his car about 9:25 p.m. when he found the front driver-side tire on his car had been slashed.

He then reported the incident to a Southwest Airlines supervisor who asked him who he thought had slashed his tire. Anzaldo replied he suspected it was his girlfriend's ex-husband, the affidavit states.

The affidavit states Christmann and his wife were still married at the time of the killing.

The supervisor, who was still on the phone, then heard a mans voice approaching Anzaldo. The supervisor asked if Anzaldo was OK.

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The supervisor then heard a brief conversation between Anzaldo and the man, followed by noises of a struggle, the affidavit states.

Anzaldo then began yelling for help.

The supervisor ran out of a break room at the airport to the employee parking lot and told another employee that Anzaldo was being attacked, the affidavit states.

The men ran to the parking lot, then saw a man in a dark hoodie and dark pants immediately leave.

Anzaldo was found with no signs of life, the affidavit states. He had blunt force trauma to his face and head.

Court documents do not state what type of weapon, if any, was used in the attack.

The other employee followed the man as he called police, the affidavit states.

The employee saw the man walk to a nearby hotel, get into an older model gray Ford F-150 and flee, the affidavits states.

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The truck had damaged paint on the hood and roof, and a unique dent on the upper right side of its tailgate, the affidavit states. Police found a truck matching the description of the truck a the wife's house.

Officers searched the truck and found a work schedule for Christmanns wife and a notebook with information from the True People Search website documenting Anzaldos name, phone number and home address, the affidavit states.

They also found notes on the days and times of Anzaldo's arrivals and departures, the affidavit states.

Christmann faces up to 99 years or life in prison if convicted of murder.

Aaron Martinez may be reached at amartinez1@elpasotimes.com or on Twitter @AMartinezEPT.

This article originally appeared on El Paso Times: Trial begins of man accused in El Paso airport murder case
A 42-year-old man accused of shooting another man to death and evading Lacey police last week is being held in Thurston County jail without bail.

Scott Matthew Brodrick attended his preliminary appearance in Thurston County Superior Court on Monday. Lacey police tracked down and arrested him Friday at a fast-food restaurant parking lot on Quinault Drive Northeast.

The arrest came four days after police responded to a call about shots fired at a home on the 5500 block of Chelan Lane Southeast in Lacey. Police arrived to find Brian Fraley, 43, dead with multiple gunshot wounds.

On Thursday, prosecutors charged Brodrick with first-degree premeditated murder while armed with a firearm and Judge Carol Murphy authorized a warrant for his arrest.

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During his Monday appearance, Judge John Skinder ordered Brodrick be held without bail. In doing so, he determined Brodrick had a propensity for violence. Skinder said he was concerned about whether Brodrick would reappear in court or interfere with the case if released.

I am extremely concerned about these allegations Skinder said. The concern I have in this case is that propensity. I think the state has shown it by clear and convincing evidence based upon the allegations.

Before issuing the courts order, Skinder heard testimony from a few of Fraleys sisters.

Fraley lived with his 84-year-old father. Dena Larson said she saw her fathers Ring camera footage in real time during the incident. She said it captured Brodrick walking toward Fraleys residence with a rifle and the sound of four gunshots.

I had to call my father and asked him to lock his doors and to call 911 because my brother had just been shot, Larson said.

I watched Mr. Brodrick walk up with the gun under the towel. I saw his black gloves. I saw the butt of the gun. I heard the shots, all four of them. Thats something I cant get out of my head.

Deneise Kopetzky said her family is now afraid for her fathers safety and want Brodrick held in jail.

I cant even in my wildest imagination understand how a person could do that to another human being, Kopetzky said.

Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Elizabeth McMullen asked for the no-bail hold. She based this request on the severity of the crime and Brodricks actions after.

Mr. Brodrick contacted a number of individuals and received assistance in this community to avoid contact with law enforcement, McMullen said.

Matthew Kellegrew, Brodricks public defense attorney, asked Skinder not to find that Brodrick has a propensity for violence. He said Brodrick is a veteran who served in Iraq and has no prior criminal convictions.

I would encourage the court to look at Mr. Brodricks record and look to his past actions when determining what he has a propensity towards in the future  and to set bail in this matter proportionate to the charges alleged and Mr. Brodricks financial status, Kellegrew said.

Brodrick has a pending warrant in Lewis County Superior Court for a drug-related case.

The investigation

A probable cause statement and other court records detail the investigation into the alleged homicide from the perspective of law enforcement.

Lacey police responded to the home the morning of Aug. 21. Detectives identified Brodrick as a suspect after interviewing witnesses and collecting the video evidence of the scene.

Detectives interviewed Brodricks partner, who reportedly said she hadnt seen Brodrick after the shooting.

She told them Brodrick went to confront Fraley because they believed Fraley had broken into their residence down the street and filmed her. She said she thought Fraley had shot Brodrick when she heard gunshots, according to court records.

Detectives noted that Brodricks partner called 911 from Brodricks phone right after the shooting. A witness reported seeing her driving toward Fraleys residence after the shooting, according to court records.

Law enforcement alleges in court records that she left the scene after contacting officers and later returned to retrieve her vehicle.

She later told law enforcement that she drove Brodricks vehicle to the residence of two individuals. On Aug. 23, police arrested the two individuals, both convicted felons, at a gas station in Lacey after allegedly finding them with firearms.

One of them shared the location of Brodricks vehicle and encrypted messages with Brodrick who was allegedly going by the pseudonym Matt Stone, according to court records. Detectives later recovered the vehicle but did not find the rifle.

On Friday, detectives interviewed another person that Brodrick allegedly communicated with via encrypted messages.

Court records indicate this person revealed a network of people who helped Brodrick after the shooting. He also said he did not know Brodrick was wanted for homicide.

The person then called Brodrick to set up a meeting at a fast-food restaurant in Lacey while detectives listened in on the call, according to court records.

Lacey police arrested Brodrick at the restaurant, but court records say he was initially non-compliant. Officers reportedly used a taser and a police dog to take him into custody.

Brodrick was treated at an area hospital before being booked into the Thurston County jail on an arrest warrant, The Olympian previously reported.

Detectives interviewed Brodrick following his arrest. He allegedly admitted that another person booked him a room at a motel in Tumwater after the shooting.

Court records say Brodrick stayed at the motel while wearing a disguise of a hat and a face mask.
[Source]

Latravion McCockran, the California man accused of carrying out Sacramento robberies targeting Asian women, has been sentenced to eight years in state prison.

His plea: On Aug. 8, McCockran, 21, pleaded guilty to targeting and robbing four Asian women in April and May of last year, the Sacramento County District Attorneys Office said on Monday.

According to a press release, McCockran pled in Sacramento Superior Court to three counts of robbery as strike offenses, one count of grand theft person, two arming enhancements and four hate crime allegations. He was ordered to pay restitution to the victims.

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About the robberies: McCockran and his juvenile accomplice targeted Asian women leaving stores in the area of Stockton Boulevard and 65th Street. Besides being robbed of property, the victims were reportedly physically assaulted during the incidents.

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According to the District Attorneys office, McCockran was the driver in each of these robberies while the then-17-year-old from Berkeley took purses, cell phones, cash and jewelry from the women by force, sometimes brandishing a firearm that was never recovered by police.

On one occasion, McCockran followed the victim to her home and robbed her of her cell phone inside of her garage, the press release noted.

Investigation and arrest: During the investigation, authorities discovered messages between McCockran and the juvenile showing that they were targeting Asian women due to racial biases, leading the District Attorneys Office to seek and obtain a conviction on the hate crime allegations in this case.

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Police arrested the teen on June 15 last year, along with two other individuals he was with at the time who were armed with illegal handguns. McCockran was arrested on June 22. Authorities have not released further details about the juvenile.

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A man was arrested at the U.S.-Canadian border for attempting to steal equipment from a secured Customs Administration building on the United States side, police said.

Austin Michael Giger, 30, from Tigard, Oregon, was caught in the U.S. to Canada Port of entry in Lynden wearing a U.S. Border Patrol uniform. Deputies responded to the crime scene around 1 a.m. Monday. When asked what he was doing, he told officers he had just gotten off work and pointed to the stolen border patrol vest.

Giger was arrested and charged with second-degree burglary, first-degree theft, theft of a firearm and first-degree criminal impersonation.

According to Whatcom County Sheriffs Office spokeswoman Deb Slater, Giger had walked through the front doors of the facility and started going through rooms and Border Patrol equipment.

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He is accused of stealing two ballistic vests worth $3,000 each, a radio worth $5,000, a Border Patrol jacket worth $200, $20 worth of ammunition, $20 of pepper spray and a $30 ammunition magazine.

The Bellingham Herald has reached out to the U.S. Border Patrol for comment.
LAS VEGAS (KLAS)  A 53-year-old woman is awaiting extradition from Kansas City, Missouri, after a body was discovered in a Pahrump backyard on Friday.

Gennice Walker is currently in custody in Jackson County, Missouri, on an arrest warrant on a larceny charge.

Nye County Sheriffs Office (NCSO) investigators got a warrant to search property on Peggy Avenue in Pahrump after a tip that Walkers father, 95-year-old Bruce Brown, had been buried in the desert. Investigators learned that Brown had not been seen since late April.

Gennise Walker. (Photo: Nye County Sheriffs Office)

Investigators had traveled to Kansas City to interview Walker, who refused to cooperate. She is suspected of living off Browns Social Security and VA benefits after his death.

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After excavating a small portion of the backyard, we located a human male remains in a homemade coffin under the ground. Autopsy later identified the remains as Bruce Brown, according to NCSO information

Anyone with information related to this investigation is asked to contact the Nye County Sheriffs Office at 775-751-7000. You can also remain anonymous by calling Crimestoppers at 702-385-5555.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KLAS.
One Florida shipbuilder died in the gas-filled hull of a ship, and a co-worker was hospitalized after he tried to rescue him, according to the Putnam County Sheriffs Office.

The second man survived after a third co-worker pulled him unconscious from the hull, the sheriffs office said in a news release.

It happened around 7:30 a.m. on Monday, Aug. 28, at a shipyard in Palatka, about 60 miles southwest of Jacksonville.

Harrison Phipps, 40, was fabricating with welding equipment when he stopped responding. A second worker, Peter Olmeda, 35, said he heard Phipps pass out from possible exposure to poisonous gas and went to help, the sheriffs office said.

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Olmeda reached Phipps, but he was also rendered unconscious. A third worker, Lucas Nunez, ran to help and was able to pull Olmeda out of the ship, but was unable to reach Phipps. Olmeda was taken to HCA Putnam Hospital and is expected to recover.

First responders used a hoist to remove Phipps from the hull and he was taken to a hospital. However, he could not be revived.

Nunez was also taken to a hospital for medical clearance, officials said.

The sheriffs office has launched an investigation. However, Phipps death appears accidental in nature and there is no indication of foul play, officials said.

The medical examiner responded to the scene and will conduct an autopsy to determine manner of death, officials said. OSHA was contacted and will handle the workplace safety investigation.

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A Russian strike against the village of Olhivka in Kherson Oblast on Aug. 29 injured a 75-year-old man, and two men were killed by a landmine near the village of Sadove, local officials reported.

"(The man) has sustained injuries to his leg. He was taken to the hospital, doctors are providing him with necessary assistance," the Kherson Oblast Military Administration said in reference to the Olhivka resident.

On the same day, two men aged 51 and 28 were killed by a Russian mine in a field near the village of Sadove, Kherson Oblast Governor Oleksandr Prokudin reported.

This comes as a second such incident on Aug. 29 in Kherson Oblast, as a 43-year-old farmer was also killed by a mine earlier today in a field near Novopetrivka when his tractor ran into the explosive.

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During Russia's full-scale invasion, casualties due to mine explosions have become a regular occurrence in Ukraine. The large-scale mining of Ukrainian land makes it difficult and highly dangerous for local farmers to grow crops and harvest, risking the countrys vital agricultural industry.

Interior Minister Ihor Klymenko said on March 1 that nearly one-third of Ukraine's territory had been mined since February last year.

The State Emergency Service earlier reported that after the end of the war, Ukraine would need at least 10 years to demine its territory.

Read also: Ukraine war latest: Ukraine liberates Robotyne, Zaporizhzhia Oblast

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A mandatory evacuation of children from five frontline settlements in Zaporizhzhya Oblast is planned to include 54 children and 67 family members accompanying them, the Ministry for Reintegration of the Temporarily Occupied Territories reported on Facebook on Aug. 29.

The relevant appeal of the Zaporizhzhiya Oblast Military Administration (OVA) was considered at a meeting of the Coordination Headquarters for the mandatory evacuation of the population under martial law. The participants of the meeting unanimously supported the mandatory evacuation of children from certain settlements of Vasyliv and Polohiv districts of Zaporizhzhiya Oblast.

Read also: Vereshchuk gives advice to Ukrainians living in occupied territories after Putin decree

The press service clarified that five settlements were on the list:

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 Hulyaypole,

 Stepnohirsk,

 Preobrazhenka,

 Yehorivka,

 Novopavlivka.

Due to the difficult security situation and hostile shelling, 54 children and 67 accompanying persons (family members) are being mandatorily evacuated, the ministry added.

Read also: Over 380 children abducted by Russia have now been returned, says deputy PM

The mandatory evacuation will also apply to people with limited mobility who live in these settlements.

Earlier, Minister for Reintegration of the Temporarily Occupied Territories Iryna Vereshchuk said that the mandatory evacuation of children was currently underway in the community of Vovchansk in Kupyansk District, Kharkiv Oblast.

She also said that there are 89 children in Donetsk Oblast who need to be evacuated.

Read also: Russia changes names and birthdates of kidnapped children to hide the genocide, Vereshchuk

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Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
The Marine Corps on Monday identified three Marines who were killed in an MV-22 Osprey crash during an exercise in Australia over the weekend.

Cpl. Spencer R. Collart, 21, of Arlington, Virginia; Capt. Eleanor V. LeBeau, 29, of Belleville, Illinois; and Maj. Tobin J. Lewis, 37, of Jefferson, Colorado, died when their tiltrotor aircraft went down. There were 20 other personnel on board the Osprey, and five were transported to Royal Darwin Hospital in serious condition.

In an update Monday evening, the Marine Corps said that three troops remain in the hospital. One is in critical condition, and the other two are stable. The other Marines were treated for minor injuries and released.

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"We are deeply saddened by the loss of three respected and beloved members of the MRF-D family," Col. Brendan Sullivan, commanding officer of Marine Rotational Force -- Darwin, said in a released statement. "Our thoughts and prayers remain with the families and with all involved."

The crash occurred during Exercise Predators Run, an annual multinational exercise held in the Northern Territory of Australia. A press release from Marine Rotational Force -- Darwin, the parent unit to the exercise, said Sunday that the Osprey went down on Melville Island, north of the territory's capital city of Darwin.

CNN reported that the Australian territory's police commissioner, Michael Murphy, said two Ospreys departed Darwin on Sunday morning toward the Tiwi Islands. Only one crashed.

The troops involved in the crash were part of Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 363, which is based out of Hawaii, and 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, out of Camp Pendleton, California. The three Marines who died were part of the tiltrotor squadron.

LeBeau was one of the unit's pilots, according to the Marine Corps, and had been in the service since 2018. Lewis was the squadron's executive officer and had 15 years' experience in the Marines. Collart enlisted in the Corps in 2020 and was the Osprey's crew chief at the time of the crash, according to the statement.

"We would like to express our sincere gratitude to the Australian Defence Force, Northern Territory Police, Northern Territory Government, CareFlight Air and Mobile Services, NT Health, National Critical Care and Trauma Response Center, and Tiwi Island Government, who have come together to assist us in this difficult time," the statement said.

The Osprey is the Marine Corps' primary assault support craft, and it is also used by the Air Force and Navy. The Osprey has been in a number of high-profile accidents that have claimed the lives of more than 50 service members since the 1990s.

An investigation remains ongoing, according to the statement, and a clear reason for the crash is not yet known.

While the Osprey's overall incident rate is lower compared to other aircraft, a clutch issue that can shred important parts in the airframe has become a prominent issue. Last year, the Air Force, which has a smaller number of Ospreys compared to the Marine Corps, grounded the aircraft.

The Marine Corps, which relies heavily on the aircraft as its premier troop air delivery system, has continued flying the Osprey. The service said that it has reduced the clutch issue malfunction by "99%," something about which family members of those in one of the latest Osprey accidents are skeptical. Last year, five Marines were killed in a crash due to the clutch malfunctioning.

The clutch issue is not always responsible for deadly Osprey incidents. In March 2022, the Marine Corps reported that a crash that claimed the lives of four Marines in Norway was caused by pilot error.

Regarding the crash in Australia on Sunday, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said that "these Marines served our country with courage and pride, and my thoughts and prayers are with their families today, with the other troops who were injured in the crash, and with the entire USMC family."

-- Drew F. Lawrence can be reached at drew.lawrence@military.com. Follow him on Twitter @df_lawrence.

Related: Marine Corps Suspected Part Causing Osprey Clutch Failures in 2010
Mark Meadows, the former Trump White House chief of staff, really wants to make a federal case out of his indictment in Fulton County, Georgia.

Meadows wants out of the Fulton County court so badly that on Monday, he took the enormous risk of testifying in his own criminal trial and subjecting himself to cross-examination by the Fulton County District Attorneys Office.

Meadows longing for federal court may seem puzzling because switching is but a change of courthouses. In federal court, Meadows will face the same charges, under the same state laws (including the Georgia RICO Act), brought by the same prosecutor.

However, Meadows may be counting on the fact that a federal trial would give him a broader geographic jury pool which might be more favorable to him. He also may think that a federal court would be more sympathetic to his argument that his position as a federal official should automatically make him immune from a state criminal prosecution.

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Theoretically, Meadows removal argument under 28 U.S. code  1442 doesnt look that hard to make, since he only needs to show that he was a federal official at the time and that he can raise a colorable legal defense. Meadows was a federal official at the time as Trumps White House chief of staff, so he can meet that part of the legal standard.

He also has a federal defense to raise based on so-called Supremacy Clause Immunity, meaning that as a federal officer he cannot be criminally prosecuted by a state for actions performed in his official federal capacity. The question though is whether that defense is a colorable one in these circumstances. In plain English, a colorable defense is just one that passes the smell test. That may prove challenging for Meadows.

Mark Meadows Surrenders to Jail After His Last-Minute Plea Fails

The problem for Meadows is that he needs to convince federal judge Steve C. Jonesa former state judge appointed to the U.S. District Court by President Obamathat his actions in allegedly conspiring with Trump and 18 other co-defendants to overturn the election results in Georgia were part of his job description as White House chief of staff.

Holding aside the fact that the Hatch Act bars a federal official from using their office to engage in partisan political activity, Meadows must prove that his involvement in such acts as the phone call to Brad Raffensberger, in which Trump pressured the Georgia secretary of state to find votes for Trump, were just part of doing his job.

The federal government does not have the power to regulate presidential elections. A strict reading of Article II, Section 1, clause 4 of the Constitution would allow only regulation of the time of choosing presidential electors and certainly there is no known precedent for a White House chief of staff overseeing any aspect of a state election process.

Meadows five-hour long testimony in federal court on Monday, including cross-examination by prosecutors, was a rare sight in a criminal trial and illustrated the frailties of his argument. He repeatedly alluded to a federal nexus for his participation in meetings and phone calls alleged to be part of the criminal conspiracy to overturn Bidens victory over Trump.

He also emphasized that as Trumps chief of staff he had to arrange calls and meetings for the then-presidentimplying that such ministerial functions were part of his official duties and that to the extent those calls or meetings were criminal he should bear no liability. But trying to compartmentalize his administrative duties from the overall plot is an uphill climb for Meadows given the depth of his involvement with the acts cited in the indictment. Of the two, the federal nexus argument is Meadows best bet to at least win removal.

Former U.S. President Donald Trump 's Chief of Staff Mark Meadows walks out of the United States District Court for the Northern District of Georgia, where a hearing on his petition to move the Fulton County case to federal court in the 2020 election case took place, in Atlanta, Georgia. Dustin Chambers/Reuters

Judge Jones could decide that while Meadows claim that everything he did was proper under the theory that the federal governmentand therefore he and Trumphad some kind of responsibility to ensure that the presidential election was conducted properly may be a weak defense but nonetheless a defense. That would get Meadows out of Georgia state court, but winning an acquittal with this defense will prove much harder than merely asserting it.

The willingness of Meadows and his defense team to expose him on the witness stand seems even more risky since Meadows submitted to interviews with DOJ Special Counsel Jack Smith in the federal criminal case involving many of the same actions. By allowing Meadows to speak with DOJ about the same actions that he ended up getting charged for by Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis involves not only Fifth Amendment waiver issues but also creates opportunities for inconsistencies in his testimony that could result in federal false statements charges.

However there may be more to Meadows strategy than meets the eye. His airing of the Supremacy Clause immunity defense gives both him and Trump a test run of the defense.

If Meadows were to win the removal it may signal to him and to other defendants that the defense may have some merit. Conversely, if he gets dunked on by Judge Jones and cant even remove the case, that may call for a reassessment of both his defense and Trumps eventual defense.

Additionally, the more efforts by the defendants to split up their cases, whether through removal or by some seeking speedy trials, the more work there is for the prosecution and, most importantly, the more potential delay is created for Trump. Whether he wants to or not, Mark Meadows continues to serve Trump.

Read more at The Daily Beast.

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Chinese Commerce Minister Wang Wentao (R) shakes hands with U.S. Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo in Beijing, China, Aug. 28, 2023. [Photo/Chinese Ministry of Commerce]

Chinese Minister of Commerce Wang Wentao held talks with visiting U.S. Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo on Monday in Beijing, according to a statement of China's Ministry of Commerce released on Monday.

The two sides engaged in rational, candid and constructive communication regarding the implementation of the consensus reached by the two heads of state at their meeting in Bali, Indonesia, focusing on China-U.S. economic and trade relations, as well as economic and trade issues of common concern, said the statement.

Economic and trade relations are the cornerstone of China-U.S. relations, Wang said, adding that trade between the two countries is important for their respective economies and the global economy.

China is willing to work together with the United States to create a favorable policy environment for cooperation between the business sectors of both countries and to promote bilateral trade and investment while upholding principles of mutual respect, peaceful coexistence and win-win cooperation, Wang said.

Wang has raised serious concerns about issues including the U.S. Section 301 tariffs on Chinese goods, its semiconductor policies, restrictions of two-way investment, discriminatory subsidies, and sanctions on Chinese enterprises.

He noted that the generalization of the concept of national security is not conducive to normal economic and trade exchanges, and unilateral and protectionist measures run counter to market rules and the principle of fair competition, and will only harm the security and stability of the global industrial and supply chains.

Noting that the United States has repeatedly stated that it does not seek decoupling with China, Wang said the U.S. side should match its words with actions.

While acknowledging the importance of conducting open and productive dialogues between China and the United States in the field of economy and trade, Wang and Raimondo announced the establishment of new communication channels between China's Ministry of Commerce and the U.S. Department of Commerce, according to the statement.

A working group has been set up, composed of deputy ministerial and bureau-level government officials from both China and the United States, along with representatives from the business sector, to seek solutions to specific business issues, said the statement. The working group will hold deputy ministerial-level meetings twice a year.

Wang and Raimondo agreed to maintain regular communication, meeting at least once a year, said the statement.

Additionally, the two sides have initiated an export control information exchange mechanism, which serves as a mechanism for explaining their respective export control systems and improving communication. Both sides will exchange information on export control in accordance with their respective laws, according to the statement.

The two sides also discussed and agreed that experts from both countries will engage in technical consultations on the protection of trade secrets and confidential business information during the process of enhancing administrative licensing, the statement added.
Marky Mark in the house!

Rapper turned actor Mark Wahlberg did the South Florida rounds on Friday.

First stop: Publix Liquors in Cooper City.

The actor, who now co-owns a brand of tequila, Flecha Azul, introduced thrilled shoppers to his 80 proof booze, signed bottles and took countless selfies.

READ MORE: Lionel Messi stops in to get groceries at Publix

A few hours later, Wahlberg kept the party going a little north, hitting up Roccos Tacos in Delray Beach for happy hour.

We were told the 52 year old arrived via convertible jeep with owner Rocco Mangel and was greeted by hundreds of excited fans eager to get a snap.

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Once inside, Wahlberg jumped behind the bar to serve up shots and sign more bottles that were auctioned off for a good cause.

Yes. The events werent just to cause people to miss work, promote alcohol usage or salivate over a celebrity. Wahlberg was here to raise funds for the World Central Kitchen, a nonprofit founded by rock star chef Jose Andres that is feeding folks displaced by the Maui wildfires.

The charity cocktail, a Strawberry Basil Margarita, is available at Roccos until Fridays happy hour.

The indefatigable Wahlberg then zipped up the coast to Palm Beach for an in-store appearance at the Virginia Philip Wine, Spirits & Academys tasting room.

READ MORE: See The Rock make surprise visit to this Miami area gym

The next day, the native Bostonian was back at it, visiting Tampas Luekens Wine & Spirits for more fun with wrestling legend Ric Flair.

And sorry to break it to you, Wahlberg, a father of four who now calls Vegas home, was not exhausted from all this social interaction. The fitness fanatic hit up a local gym in Tampa for a (booze free) workout.
Mexican authorities have found 11 bodies in a mass grave in Chihuahua believed to possibly contain the remains of a group of migrants who disappeared near the Texas border two years ago.

The migrants may have been killed by drug cartel members fighting for control of human smuggling routes along the Texas border, according to a newspaper report.

The bodies were found by state police on Wednesday, Aug. 23, buried about four feet in the ground near the small community of El Mimbre in the Coyame del Sotol region of eastern Chihuahua, state officials said.

Crime: Two El Paso men arrested, 13-year-old girl found locked in suspected stash house

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The Chihuahua Attorney General's Office said DNA tests would be done to determine if the bodies were those of a group of men who disappeared while heading to the Mexican border town of Ojinaga, located across the Rio Grande from Presidio in the Big Bend region of Texas.

A search dog and agents with the Chihuahua State Investigations Agency in December 2022 look for signs of a group in the migrants who disappeared in the desert in the Coyame del Sotol region in September 2021. A mass grave with at least 11 bodies was discovered last week.

Mexican migrants were heading to Odessa, Texas

A group of 13 migrants departed from Chihuahua City and Aldama heading toward Ojinaga on Sept. 25, 2021, the state attorney general's office said.

The migrants had paid smugglers to get them across the U.S. border and transport them to Odessa, Texas.

Drug cartels: Reputed patriarch of Los Salazar narco-group tied to reporter's murder, extradited to US

The migrants were all men and Mexican citizens. Six came from Chihuahua City, one each from Aldama, Queretaro and Mexico City, authorities had said. It is unclear where the others were originally from.

A boy traveling with the group told investigators that the migrants were detained before reaching Ojinaga, but that he managed to escape, or was released, and had returned to his family, officials said.

A missing-persons poster shows 11 migrants who disappeared in the region of Coyame del Sotol, in eastern Chihuahua near the Ojinaga-Presidio border, in September 2021. A reward of 200,000 pesos was offered for information leading to the location of each of the missing men.

Volunteers and state police equipped with search dogs and drones conducted several searches of the ranches, dirt roads and ravines looking for the missing men in the vast, desolate desert. The searches continued for years until the mass grave was found.

One person has been arrested as part of the investigation, Julian N., alias "El Roque," who was taken into custody on Feb. 28 on a charge of "deprivation of liberty" in connection with the abductions, state officials said.

Report: Migrants killed, buried by rival drug cartels

A report by El Heraldo de Juarez, citing internal documents from the Chihuahua Attorney General's Office, alleges the migrants were possibly killed by the Sinaloa drug cartel and then buried in a clandestine grave by the rival Juarez cartel in an effort to hide the massacre and keep the heat off the region.

The migrants may have been killed because a "pollero," or human smuggler, was trying to avoid paying the "derecho de piso," a toll or tax, for transporting contraband through a territory, El Heraldo reported.

This embedded content is not available in your region.

Sinaloa cartel members allegedly intercepted and killed the migrants, who were wearing camouflage, mistaking them for rival members of La Linea, also known as the Juarez cartel, the newspaper reported.

More: 4 dead as Mexican drug cartels battle on new Samalayuca-Tornillo highway outside Juarez

Juarez cartel members discovered the massacre and decided to bury the bodies in a hidden grave to keep the murders a secret and keep law enforcement pressure away from that part of the Chihuahua-Texas border, El Heraldo reported.

Agents with the Chihuahua State Investigations Agency search the vast desert in the Coyame del Sotol region for a group of missing migrants in December 2022. A mass grave with at least 11 bodies was discovered last week near El Mimbre, Chihuahua.

This article originally appeared on El Paso Times: Mass grave may hold migrants killed by drug cartel near Texas border
Mayor John Hamilton wants to give most non-union employees 5% raises next year, add new positions to fix streets after utility work and hire more social workers to prop up the understaffed city police department.

While Hamiltons budget for 2024 would increase potential spending by 1.4% over this year, to $131 million  excluding utilities and transit  he is proposing that the city spend an additional $20 million in one-time expenditures, using local revitalization funds and federal COVID relief dollars.

The proposed one-time expenditures:

$5 million for housing for low-income and homeless services, workforce rental housing and support for homeownership.

$2.7 million to improve traffic signals to better coordinate with public transit and safety vehicles.

$2 million for street improvements focused on bike and bus routes.

$1.5 million for job growth, economic development and climate-related projects.

$1 million each for sidewalks; diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging projects; public health, focusing on substance use disorder and mental health.

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The city will get revenue increases of 4% in property taxes and slightly less than 4% in income taxes. Despite those increases, Hamiltons budget would require the city to spend about $3.3 million more from its General Fund than it would collect in revenue. The General Fund is the citys main operating fund that pays for such expenses as the police and fire departments.

Nonetheless, the Hamilton administration projects that its reserves will remain near 40% of government spending, or more than twice as much as recommended by the Government Finance Officers Association.

Bloomington Mayor John Hamilton presents his 2024 budget proposal to the city council Aug. 28, 2023.

Fire department nears full staff while police department struggles

Hamiltons proposal includes more than 20 new employees, including three paramedics for the fire department, $500 bonuses for most non-union employees, and extra pay for firefighters whose contract calls for a 2% raise but who would instead get a 5% raise.

Hamilton said the fire department recently hired 21 firefighters and is near full staff, but the city is continuing to deal with persistent staffing challenges at the police department, which, according to the police union, has 84 officers, or 21 fewer than budgeted.

While the positions for sworn police officers are not filled, Hamilton wants to use money for five of those positions to hire, at least temporarily, community service specialists who, under a pilot program, would respond to some 911 calls, such as welfare checks and noise complaints.

"We're going to try two pilot responses that will include one team that will be with a sworn officer, probably a downtown resource officer, ... plus one or two non-sworn, and this will be primarily on things like welfare checks," Hamilton said Monday morning in a budget preview for local media. "And the second approach will be without a sworn officer but with two non-sworn, like a community service specialist and paramedic or something like that."

The idea, Hamilton said, is to send non-sworn personnel to calls where police officers are unlikely to be needed, leaving sworn police officers with time to handle more serious situations.

The city's job descriptions for a community service specialist have included:

High school diploma or equivalent

Ability to communicate effectively with City residents utilizing written correspondence and verbal communication

Basic knowledge of Indiana Traffic Code, Indiana Criminal Code, and Bloomington Municipal Code

Knowledge of other City departments and the services they provide

Strong conflict de-escalation strategies and problem solving skills

Police staffing has been a contentious issue among Hamilton, the police union and the city council, some members of which threatened to vote against the budget in 2021 for reasons including that Hamilton was not providing enough funding to adequately staff the police department.

'Open revolt:' Bloomington City Council threatens to reject mayor's budget plan

The city council this week is listening to budget presentations by department heads. The council's public hearing on the budget occurs in late September with approval in mid-October. Council members asked few questions of Hamilton on Monday, but proceedings likely will get more lively in the September/October meetings.

You can attend this weeks hearings daily at 5:30 p.m. at city hall or participate via Zoom at bton.in/06x6z.

You can read the entire budget proposal here: tinyurl.com/mr3xw34s.

Boris Ladwig can be reached at bladwig@heraldt.com.

This article originally appeared on The Herald-Times: Bloomington mayor seeks increased spending on sidewalks, social workers
Mark Meadows took the stand before a federal judge on Monday, testifying that his actions in the Georgia indictment accusing him of taking part in an illegal conspiracy to change the outcome of the 2020 election in favor of Trump were part of his job as then-White House chief of staff.

Meadows defended his actions as Trumps chief of staff and claimed that his duties required him to sit in on nearly all of the former presidents meetings, according to ABC News. He lamented that the period after the 2020 election was more than he could handle.

Having open questions [about the election] continued to be a roadblock for initiating other plans, Meadows testified, per the Washington Post. He added: I just needed to land the plane.

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According to the Georgia indictment, Meadows arranged the now-infamous phone call between Trump and Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger in which Trump told Raffensperger he could be in legal trouble if he didnt help overturn the election, while asking him to find the nearly 12,000 votes he needed to overtake President-elect Joe Biden in the state. On Monday, Meadows claimed that the former president had instructed him to set up the call.

Meadows told the judge that he was attempting to resolve a dispute during the call, as Raffensperger was being sued by the Trump campaign.

The former chief of staff argued on Monday that he acted in his capacity as a federal officer and therefore, should have his case moved to federal court. Rolling Stone reported the filing earlier this month, in which his attorneys argued that since the conduct giving rise to the charges in the indictment all occurred during his tenure and as part of his service as Chief of Staff, to the president, the charges should be remanded to federal court.

Raffensperger took the stand for more than an hour and testified that Trump lost the election and that at first, he tried to resist the call with Trump. I told my deputy I dont think this is in our best interest, he said, per CNN. Outreach to this extent was extraordinary, Raffensperger added, referring to the call arranged by Meadows.

Kurt Hilbert, a Trump campaign attorney, also testified on Monday, and said the only purpose of the call was to discuss campaign matters, challenging Meadows claim that he acted as a federal official.

Trump and 18 of his allies are scheduled to be arraigned next week on charges related to the efforts to subvert the 2020 election.

More from Rolling Stone

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Click here to read the full article.
South Korea will provide Ukraine with 520 billion won ($394 million) in financial aid next year, eight times more than in 2023, Reuters reported on Aug. 29, citing the country's Economy and Finance Ministry.

According to South Korea's 2024 budget, the aid package includes 130 billion won for reconstruction, 260 billion for humanitarian assistance, and another 130 billion won through international organizations.

Reuters also cited South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol saying that Seoul has stepped up South Korea's Official Development Assistance for strategic areas, including the Asia-Pacific region and Africa, from 1.4 trillion won to 2 trillion won ($1.51 billion).

According to the media outlet, the South Korean Economy and Finance Ministry explained the increase in foreign aid by Seoul's efforts to help South Korean companies go abroad and protect national interests as well as take responsibility as an important member of the global community.

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Read also: David Kirichenko: How Ukraine is the leading testing ground for the viability of crypto

During his first-ever visit to Kyiv on July 15, Yoon announced that South Korea's assistance to Ukraine would amount to $150 million in 2023.

"Last year, we provided bulletproof vests, helmets, and other necessary ammunition. We hope that this year, the level of our help will be higher," the leader said.

South Korea has only supplied Ukraine with humanitarian and economic aid so far, citing its government policy that prohibits the export of weapons to a country at war.

In April, however, Yoon signaled readiness to consider sending lethal aid to Ukraine for the first time. Back then, he told Reuters that his government was considering ways to help defend Ukraine just like his country received help in the 1950-53 Korean War.

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
Turns out, Meghan Markles royal wedding dress was more than meets the eye.

In an interview published on 25 August, the Duchess of Sussexs gown designer Clare Waight Keller spoke to Vanity Fair about the intricate adornments she hid amongst the custom silk number for the royals big day five years ago. Tradition was not lost when Meghan, 42, wed Prince Harry, 38, inside St Georges Chapel at Windsor Castle.

Keller explained the pair not only honoured the longstanding wedding practice of including something blue but paid homage to their first date during their nuptials by including a scrap of the dress Meghan wore.

We basically sewed it into the hem of the wedding dress, so she was the only one that knew that it was there, the British fashion designer confessed. It was a little blue gingham check. It was the perfect personal memento that was secretly hidden inside the dress.

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Since Keller had assumed the position of Givenchys first female artistic director at the time, Meghans gown fused the brands classic style hues with the brides desire for simplicity. Keller told the outlet that Meghan wanted the dress to embody a timeless elegance without being overly feminine or too minimal.

That effortless American style, where it just feels really fresh and personal. But its not overwhelming. Its not specific to any particular decade, Keller noted of the duchess request.

The gown, which was off-the-shoulder and long-sleeved, was paired with a diamond-studded headband to hold the long, delicate veil over Meghans head and a pair of pointed-toe white heels. Meghans dress alone is estimated to cost over $265,000. Meanwhile, the tule veil took about 4,000 hours of meticulous design to represent each of the 53 countries that make up the Commonwealth.

Though Meghan and her husband eventually stepped away from their royal responsibilities in 2020, she embraced her new role two years prior by celebrating each country. [She] felt like she was bringing an element of each of those countries down the aisle with her, Keller pointed out.

So that her new role - and that bridge to the new role - was captured in what she was wearing, she continued. For both of us, we felt it was a really beautiful signature, and I think even Prince Harry was just thrilled at the idea that we really tried to capture something for everyone in that service.

Meghan has only ever spoken highly of Kellers ability to bring her dream dress to life. In 2018, she recorded a message for Windsor Castles royal wedding exhibition, in which she talked about the incredible experience working with the renowned designer.

What was amazing in working with Clare is that sometimes youll find designers try to push you in a different direction, the mother to Archie Harrison, four, and Lilibet Diana, two, recounted. But she just completely respected what I wanted to see for the day, and she wanted to bring that to life for me.
Interlacing American and English culture, designer Clare Waight Keller reveals the intentional details within Meghan Markles wedding dress.

Following the age-old saying, something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue, Meghan Markles wedding dress designer revealed how the Duchess of Sussex incorporated that tradition into her royal wedding.

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle leave St Georges Chapel in Windsor Castle after their wedding. (Photo by Jane Barlow/PA Images via Getty Images)

In a recent interview, Clare Waight Keller, the designer behind Markles long-sleeved, minimalist white Givenchy gown, shared more details from Markle and Prince Harry s May 2018 wedding. Unveiling more about the gowns details, Keller gave Vanity Fair more insight into the blue hidden within that gown  something Markle previously alluded to in the 2018 HBO documentary Queen of the World.

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Somewhere in here, theres a piece of blue fabric thats stitched inside  it was my something blue, said Markle when discussing the gown she wore down the aisle. Its fabric from the dress that I wore on our first date.

We basically sewed it into the hem of the wedding dress, so she was the only one that knew that it was there. It was a little blue gingham check, Waight Keller further explained to Vanity Fair. It was the perfect personal memento that was secretly hidden inside the dress.

In addition to the popular bridal ritual, Markle was reportedly adamant about featuring a hand-embroidered floral trim on her veil in honor of the 53 countries of the Commonwealth and her new role as a then-working royal.

[Meghan] felt like she was bringing an element of each of those countries down the aisle with her. So that her new role  and that bridge to the new role  was captured in what she was wearing, said Waight Keller. For both of us, we felt it was a really beautiful signature, and I think even Prince Harry was just thrilled at the idea that we really tried to capture something for everyone in that service.

Despite the recent tension between Markle and the royal family  and the monarchy and several countries of the Commonwealth  Waight Keller reports King Charles appreciated the thoughtful details in the Duchess of Sussexs wedding attire. Moments before the monarch walked Markle down the aisle due to her fathers absence, Waight Keller recalls:

King Charles was just in awe of the dress and the [veil] embroidery, and he asked me about it while we were waiting inside the nave. [] He was really very interested, actually, in all the different motifs and the floral representations.

As Sarah Collins, a professor at Savannah College of Art and Design, notes, Markles gown reflected her American background while simultaneously honoring England. Inspired by style icons Audrey Hepburn and Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy, the Duchess of Sussexs wedding dress omitted the traditional lace, embroidery and decorations typically seen in royal wedding styles.

We talked a lot about what [Markle] really felt represented her as a modern interpretation of the royal role, Waight Keller told Vanity Fair. She wanted to bring some simplicity and just timeless elegance. Not overly feminine, but not really minimal either. That effortless American style, where it just feels really fresh and personal. But its not overwhelming. Its not specific to any particular decade.

There was that sense of playfulness and modernity and doing things in a different way, Waight Keller added. And I really feel thatfor the dress, particularlythat sense of it could be something that really represented her, her spirit, her modernity, and the freshness and the cleanness.

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 Meghan Markles wedding dress designer shares the unique details woven into the famed gown appeared first on TheGrio.
Meghan Markle's mom Doria Ragland was pictured with Kim Kardashian and Kris Jenner.

The trio attended a charity event in LA on Saturday with an organization Meghan has worked with.

Ragland wore an orange and pink minidress which showed off her arm tattoo.

Meghan Markle's mother Doria Ragland made a surprising appearance with Kim Kardashian and Kris Jenner over the weekend.

Ragland, 66, posed for photos with Kardashian, 42, and Jenner, 67, at a charity event in Los Angeles, California, on Saturday. The trio were among a handful of celebrities to attend the event, which celebrated the fifth anniversary of This Is About Humanity (TIAH), an organization that aims to raise awareness of separated and reunified families and children at the US-Mexico border, according to its website.

The event raised $1 million for a food-relief kitchen at the Tijuana/US border, as Women's Wear Daily reported. Zooey Deschanel, Rachel Zoe, and Eva Longoria were also in attendance, the publication reports.

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Ragland wore a retro orange and pink paisley-printed minidress by J. Crew, according to the Daily Mail and The Independent. The three-quarter length sleeves showed part of a butterfly and floral tattoo on Ragland's arm, which she had inked in 2022, according to Hello Magazine.

She accessorized with gold hoop earrings, a statement necklace, and a pair of tan heels by Chloe, The Independent reports.

Doria Ragland attends the TIAH 5th Anniversary Soiree on August 26, 2023. Stefanie Keenan/Getty Images for This Is About Humanity

Meanwhile, Kardashian wore a long-sleeved, form-sitting black gown that reached the floor and accessorized with several chunky gold necklaces and blunt bangs. Jenner opted for an all-white ensemble that included a long-sleeved shirt, pants, a feathered scarf, and a clutch bag.

It's unclear whether Ragland had a relationship with Kardashian and Jenner before this particular event. The three women were all smiles as they posed for a photo taken by Stefanie Keenan, with Kardashian placing a hand on Ragland's arm.

Kris Jenner, Doria Ragland, and Kim Kardashian. Stefanie Keenan/Getty Images for This Is About Humanity

Meghan and Prince Harry were not in attendance at the event. However, it's worth noting that the couple's charitable foundation, Archewell, has worked with TIAH in the past. In December 2022, representatives from Archewell, including the company's production and podcast team, attended TIAH's holiday party for reunified families, according to a press release on Archewell's website.

Doria Ragland, Prince Harry, and Meghan Markle. Kevin Mazur/Getty Images Ms. Foundation for Women

Archewell provided holiday gifts for 30 reunified and refugee families at the event, the press release states.

Archewell and TIAH also have a mutual partner in World Central Kitchen, a charity that provides meals to people affected by humanitarian, climate, and community crises, according to its website. Both Archewell and TIAH have listed the organization as a partner on their respective websites.

Representatives for TIAH, Archewell, and J. Crew did not respond to a request for comment.

Read the original article on Insider
MEMPHIS, Tenn.  Memphis Police Chief, Cerelyn CJ Davis, discusses the rise in murder and homicide rates in the Bluff City and says the uptick is alarming.

Chief Davis says she is calling on the community to help make a difference.

Larry Thorn, a 27-year-old beloved Memphis Shelby County Schools secretary is just one of the people lost to crime in Memphis this year. His family still bears the pain.

It hurts me so bad because I wasnt there to help him in his time of need, said Lavonda Henderson, his mother.

CrimeStoppers offers $10K rewards for information in 12 murder cases

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With more than 200 more families carrying this same pain, the number of murders and homicides in Memphis are higher than this time last year

It is unprecedented for us to see the number of homicides in our city, Chief Davis said. But were seeing far too many instances of gun violence being the means of resolving conflict in our city.

She says the reasons behind the violence vary from domestic violence, people going through a mental crisis, gang-related and other issues.

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 See more breaking news, local news and weather from WREG.com for Memphis and the Mid South.

The increase in the murder rate is horrendous and Im worried that its going to continue, said David Wayne Brown, Executive Director of Crime Stoppers. Sometimes its that one call from a community member to say, I saw a piece of the tag number. Or I believe its an individual in my community. Those tips help us to move in the right direction.

To help families like Thorns, who are still waiting for justice, theyre calling for the communitys help.

Every one of these murders is a family member and there are families out there that I talk to a lot who are devastated by whats going on, Brown said.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WREG.com.
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Foreign Ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin speaks at a press conference in Beijing, on Aug 28, 2023. [Photo/fmprc.gov.cn]

China expressed opposition on Monday to the United States' unreasonably detaining, interrogating and repatriating Chinese students, and vowed to take necessary measures to safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese citizens.



Foreign Ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin made the remarks after three Chinese students were reportedly detained and interrogated by U.S. Customs and Border Protection and Department of Homeland Security personnel for an extended period of time.

Another Chinese student was accused by the FBI, under Presidential Proclamation 10043, of "intentionally concealing military education experience" and committing "visa fraud," which could carry a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison, according to Chinaqw.com, a website that provides comprehensive information services to overseas Chinese.

Wang told a daily news briefing that, for political purposes, the U.S. has fabricated accusations against Chinese students, which is wanton oppression and persecution.

Wang said that people-to-people exchanges form the foundation for public support of China-U.S. relations, of which academic as well as scientific and technological exchanges are an important part.

During U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken's visit to China in June, the two countries agreed to expand people-to-people and educational exchanges.

The U.S. repeatedly claims to support bilateral educational and other kinds of people-to-people exchanges and to welcome Chinese students, but in fact, has continued the wrong practice of the previous presidential administration of restricting and thwarting Chinese students planning to study or conduct research in the U.S., Wang said.

Such moves harm the lawful rights and interests of Chinese students in the U.S. and undermine normal bilateral people-to-people exchanges and educational cooperation, he said.

Wang urged the U.S. to withdraw the biased and discriminatory Proclamation 10043 and stop overstretching the concept of national security to oppress Chinese students in the U.S.

China will also remind students heading for the U.S. to be mindful of such risks, he added.
Meta, the parent company of Facebook, rejected a recommendation from its Oversight Board to suspend the account of former Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen , according to a decision announced Tuesday.

Meta said it would not be suspending Hun Sens Facebook or Instagram page after determining that doing so would not be consistent with our policies, including our protocol on restricting accounts of public figures during civil unrest.

Hun Sen, who handed power to his son Hun Manet after Julys national election, had preemptively removed his Facebook page after the Oversight Board recommendation in June, and banished Facebook representatives from operating in the country.

However, he returned to the platform three weeks later, after briefly using Telegram as his main tool of public communication. His Cambodian Peoples Party won a large majority in the National Assembly after the main opposition party was barred from competing.

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The Oversight Board recommended Meta suspend the account as part of its decision to overturn the companys decision to leave up a video posted by Hun Sen. The board said the video included violent threats from the then-prime minister toward his political opponents, and given the severity of the violation recommended the suspension.

Unlike the decision on the content, which is binding, other recommendations, such as the suspension of the account, are nonbinding, leaving the final decision up to Meta.

In a post on Facebook, the Cambodian Ministry of Post and Telecommunications cheered the decision.

Please accept and congratulate Meta Platforms Inc. for the fair judgement, the government said, according to an English translation on Facebook, adding that the Oversight Board had issued bad recommendations that interfered with Cambodias internal affairs.

The Oversight Board is run independently from Meta and is made up by a panel of global academics, experts and civic leaders. It is funded by an independent trust provided by Meta.

A spokesperson for the Oversight Board said it stands by its original decision and urges Meta to do everything in its power to deter public figures who exploit its platforms to incite violence.

Elections are a crucial part of democracy and social media companies must ensure their platforms are not misused in ways which threaten to undermine them, the spokesperson said in a statement.

The decision over Hun Sens account is the latest battle Meta has faced on how to handle content posted by a political leader.

In the U.S., Meta made the decision to suspend former President Trumps account after content he posted around the Jan. 6, 2021, riot at the Capitol. Meta lifted the two-year ban on Trumps accounts in January, allowing the former president back on to Metas platforms ahead of his 2024 presidential bid.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
A man standing on the Mexican side of the Rio Grande was injured on Saturday night when a Texas National Guard soldier opened fire across the water, Mexicos top diplomat said.

The unidentified man was on the riverbanks of Ciudad Juarez when the troop in El Paso fired, according to Roberto Velasco, the chief of the North America bureau at the Mexican Foreign Ministry.

Velasco said the Mexican government has asked the Texas Department of Public Safety to investigate the incident while officials in Mexico make inquiries into why the injured man was on the banks of the Rio Grande.

The victim sustained an injury to his right leg and was hospitalized, according to the state government of Chihuahua. The Texas Military Department, which oversees the Texas National Guard, confirmed in a statement that a service member assigned to Texas Gov. Greg Abbotts Operation Lone Star discharged a weapon in a border-related incident on Saturday night and said an investigation is underway.

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Texas Gov. Greg Abbott Tells Fox He Wont Stop Fighting Biden Lawsuit

The troubling incident occurred just hours before a Texas Tribune and Military Times report revealed that Operation Lone Star had disbanded its intelligence wing after a whistleblower revealed that it was illegally spying on migrants before they ever crossed the U.S. southern border and suspected criminal organizations inside Mexico.

The alleged illegal surveillance, which included the infiltration of invite-only WhatsApp groups used by migrants to communicate, is said to have violated long-standing rules against state-run spy operations, the Tribune reported.

Commanders in Operation Lone Star reportedly demanded military-style intelligence from its intelligence personnel, which some border officers scoffed at.

Everyone [in charge] wanted to pretend it was like Iraq in 2003, one intelligence officer told the Tribune. They wanted to do Army stuff, even though this is [legally] not Army stuff.

Spying allegations are far from the only trouble roiling the Texas National Guard. The agency is also accused of loosely passing around classified FBI intelligence to guardsman colleaguesa reported violation of federal secrecy laws, according to an internal incident report obtained by the Tribune.

No guardsman faces criminal charges in the ordeal, but four top intelligence officers are facing administrative penalties. The Tribune identified the quartet as Lt. Col. David Eric Tyler, Maj. Dezi J. Rios, Chief Warrant Officer Eric E. Hack, and Lt. Emmanuel L. Pierre. Its unclear what their exact punishment is.

Operation Lone Star Squad Leader Busted for Selling Official-Issue Body Armor

Operation Lone Star was launched by Abbott in 2021 to slow illegal immigration and smuggling at the southern border, calling it a necessity to address this unparalleled catastrophe caused by President (Joe) Biden.

Theres been no evidence of a significant slow down in migrant crossings since the operations launch, but those running the $4.5 billion dollar program have repeatedly found themselves embroiled in controversy.

That includes claims from guardsman that they were ordered to push crossing migrants back into the Rio Grande and to deny water to those who made it across. Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador called the orders barbaric.

We called the shift officer in command, and we were given orders to push the people back into the water to go to Mexico, a whistleblower told the Tribune. We decided that this was not the correct thing to do, with the very real potential of exhausted people drowning.

The operation is also being probed by the Department of Justice for possibly violating the 1964 Civil Rights Act, and one of its frontline troopers was busted for selling pieces of protective gear he was issued for the initiative.

Read more at The Daily Beast.

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FILE - A worker unloads a truck-full of Mexican limes at a citrus packing plant in La Ruana, in the state of Michoacan, Mexico, Nov. 6, 2023. The government of Michoacan state said Wednesday, Aug. 24, 2023, that it has launched a criminal investigation into the extortion of lime growers by a local drug cartel in the western Mexican state. (AP Photo/Dario Lopez-Mills, File) (ASSOCIATED PRESS)

MEXICO CITY (AP)  The Mexican government said Monday it sent 1,200 more troops to the cartel-dominated western state of Michoacan after a weekend of violence.

State prosecutors said three convenience stores and five trucks and cars had been set afire, a tactic often used by drug cartels in the state to block roads and enforce extortion demands. Prosecutors said three men and three youths aged 16 and 17 were arrested in the attacks.

A Defense Department statement said the soldiers and National Guard members were deployed over the weekend. It said they were ordered to prevent cartels from blocking any more roads, so that people can go about their business normally.

Soldiers are stationed in every Mexican state, but the army did not say how many already were in Michoacan before the weekend deployment.

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President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador said that peace and tranquility had been restored to the region and called the weekend violence acts of propaganda and publicity.

Life in the cities affected by the violence  Apatzingan, Buenavista and Uruapan  is anything but normal.

Lime growers and farmers in the township of Buenavista complained in recent weeks of widespread drug cartel extortion, and in Apatzingan most basic goods cost almost double their normal price because the cartels takes a slice of most purchases.

That kind of mass threats and extortion of lime growers sparked an uprising by civilian vigilante groups a decade ago.

One lime grower, who spoke on condition of remaining anonymous for security reasons, said last week that the local drug cartel had increased the price of protection payments fivefold in the space of weeks.

The Michoacan state government said Wednesday that it had launched a criminal investigation into the extortion shakedowns. The situation threatens the supply of fresh limes, a mainstay of Mexican cuisine, and recalls the darkest days of Mexicos 2006-2012 drug war.

Back then, the Familia Michoacana and later the Knights Templar cartels burned down packing houses. imposed crop prices, demanded protection money and even told growers on which days they could harvest their crop.

That sparked an armed uprising in 2013 and 2014 by angry farmers. That vigilante movement largely kicked out the old cartels, only to see them replaced by others.

By then, most of the vigilante groups had either disarmed or been infiltrated by drug gangs.
The search committee to help select the next president of New Mexico State University held its final public listening session on Aug. 23, giving community members a last chance to provide input on the next university leader.

The committee held 11 listening sessions across the state, including two in Las Cruces. The committee will open its candidate pool in the coming months with a final selection by the Board of Regents expected by early February 2024.

Heres what some NMSU staff who attended the session, said about the selection of the next president, and heres how to nominate a potential candidate.

Community members give input to the search committee on the next university leader during a final public listening session on Aug. 23, 2023, held on the NMSU campus.

What should be the first thing that this president undertakes at NMSU?

I think we need to look at all the areas of the university and we need to decide what are the goals and the strategic actions for each of those areas. You can call it colleges, departments, units, whatever it is. I think we need to think about the vision of getting those strategies accomplished, Leslie Cervantes, chief of staff in the president's office, said.

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Cervantes, who is an alumna and has been employed by the university for nearly a decade, spoke about the need for revitalization through a leader who can understand younger generations and provide investment and commitment to them.

I oftentimes feel that New Mexico State hires presidents at the end of their career. They're either second-year career employees or end of career employees, Cervantes said. If we think that generation Alpha is going to be educated by a second career president, I think we're going to miss a huge opportunity. We need to think about a president that understands what our younger and more tech savvy generations know.

Cervantes said that she has respected past leaders shes worked for but emphasized the need for an individual whos had a hand at building programs and colleges, not just managing them.

The characteristic of actually building relationships internally and externally, to me that skill set would be really, really important, she said.

Does teaching experience matter?

Adam Cavotta, chief of staff for the NMSU Board of Regents, leads the public listening session on Aug. 23, 2023. Community members had the chance to give input on the president search.

When Board of Regents Chief of Staff Adam Cavotta asked the small crowd about previous teaching experience, they werent so quick to respond. When Cavotta asked for a show of hands if the next president should have prior higher education teaching experience and have gone through tenure and promotion  very little responded.

Carol Flinchbaugh, interim dean of the graduate school, said the candidate doesnt necessarily have to have teaching experience in the classroom but must have a grasp of the necessary communication and management strategies to connect with students, faculty and the community.

The next president has to understand the value of our graduate students to a university and has to know the national trends of the adult learner, the graduate students  global enrollment students, Flinchbaugh said. Let's collaborate better, share resources and make sure all students are supported.

Graduate recruitment was another issue Flinchbaugh brought up along with Manal Hamzeh, a borderland and ethnic studies professor who has been teaching with the university for nearly 15 years.

Hamzeh said that most students and faculty in the NMSU graduate school are not from New Mexico and have to work hard for grants, academic resources and programing across the board within the university.

We work our asses off as faculty to bring grants and someone whos paid so much money up in the leadership does not bring goals of what they are paid, Hamzeh said. Thats something that has be articulated clearly.

Manal Hamzeh, an NMSU faculty member, provides comment during a public listening session on the next university leader on Aug. 23, 2023.

Flinchbaugh said its about the lack of investment into the graduate school. The next president should be aware of those efforts and strive to enhance them.

There's no recruitment, like we have some money, but there's no recruitment for graduate students and I just want the next president to understand the critical role [that they play in our institution], Flinchbaugh said.

Ongoing issues at NMSU, not enough time to solve them

Another concern that was brought up by Hamzeh was that problems within the university remain past the tenure of any one president.

Crumbling infrastructure, faculty pay inequities, disapproval of higher leadership and bold goals to obtain Carnegie R1 research status, which the university had at one point but lost, were some problems mentioned.

On average, a presidents term at NMSU has only lasted three years according to university archives dating back two decades.

A short time span on top of a slew of challenges makes this position more challenging and more complicated to fill said Justin Bannister, vice president of marketing and communications.

I think that's important to keep in mind...that an individual can do tremendous things and in other parts of the country and then come to New Mexico and New Mexico State University and do those things exactly the same way and probably fail and it's because of the way we are built here, Bannister said. In order to be successful here in the state of New Mexico, especially the leadership role, you need to do the legwork.

Similarly, to Cervantes comments, Bannister said the next president will have to work hard to build relationships. Hamzeh suggested one way to gauge those capabilities is to look at a candidates purpose for wanting to serve this institution.

The search committee will convene throughout the coming months to vet potential candidates for nomination to the Regents by January 2024. Five contenders will be nominated with a final selection expected by Feb. 9.

The start date for the new president will be before the fall 2024 semester, no later than July 1, according to Cavotta.

Search firm Witt Kiefer is helping the committee with its efforts in candidate recruitment. In July Regents appointed nearly 20 individuals to the committee with Ben Woods, former vice president of external relations, as the chair.

If you have an individual in mind who has the qualifications to serve as the next NMSU President, you can send that information to NMSUPresident@wittkieffer.com and visit the president search website for updates.

Ernesto Cisneros is a UNM NM Local News Fund Fellow covering education. He can be reached at ECisneros@lcsun-news.com Follow him on Twitter at @_ernestcisneros.

This article originally appeared on Las Cruces Sun-News: Las Cruces residents give last thoughts on the next president of NMSU
The majority of Vietnams population live in rural areas and often lack access to financial services because banks and other institutions open most of their physical locations in cities. MFast wants to change that with what it says is the leading financial services distribution network in Vietnam. The company announced today it has raised $6 million in its Series A funding round, led by Wavemaker Partners. The round also got participation from new investors Finnoventure Fund I (managed by Krungsri Finnovate) and Headline Asia, alongside returning backers Do Ventures, JAFCO Asia and Ascend Vietnam Ventures.

This brings MFasts total raised in the six years since its launch to $10 million, including a $1.5 million pre-Series A round TechCrunch covered in June 2021. MFasts network currently includes 160,000 active agents who work with customers in tier 2 and tier 3 cities throughout Vietnam. It has served more than a million users in Vietnam so far. The company will use its new funding to broaden its operations in Vietnam, with plans to expand outside the country, starting with the Philippines, by next year.

MFast helps its customers get access to financial services, including loans and insurance, and high-ticket items like home appliances from brands that dont usually open retail branches in rural areas. Its agents join MFast to make supplementary income and are provided with an agent app that serves as a mini-CRM by MFast.

The company was launched in 2017 as a brand of fintech DigiPay by twin brothers Long Phan and Vinh Phan and currently has partnerships with financial institutions like UOB, SHBFinance, TPBank.

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Long Phan told TechCrunch that he and Vinh were born in a tier 3 city near the Cambodian border and moved to Ho Chi Minh City for their undergraduate degrees. Having lived in both rural and urban areas, we witnessed firsthand the difficulties people with backgrounds like us face in getting access to formal financial services, he said. At the same time, they also saw the challenges people in their hometown faced when trying to get a tertiary education and build a career.

MFast was created to help agents get their start in financial advisory and consulting work, while enabling consumers to gain access to bank accounts, loans, insurance and other financial products. Agents, who are provided with online training sessions and offline workshops, help end customers open CASA bank accounts, loans, credit cards, insurance or shop for appliances with zero-interest purchase financing options.

The companys new funding will be used for its proprietary technology. Phan said MFast plans to roll out new features like its Agent360 profile portal, credit scoring engine, AI fraud detector and an end-user app. It plans to expand to the Philippines while growing its agent network in Vietnam. Most of MFasts agents come through referrals, or agent-get-agent, alongside MFasts online acquisition strategies through SEO and performance marketing. Phan says prospective agents can download the MFast app and register in four minutes.

MFast competes with companies that work as agents for financial institutions, but Phan said most of them dont have tech integration or apps.

The company differentiates through its agent network and established base of financial institutions, which it continues to grow. It also uses tech to help agents work more effectively by ensuring transparency in every interaction with stakeholders like end users and capturing data such as user demographics, preferences and financial status. That data is enabling MFast to build a credit scoring engine, sales engine and product development strategy that includes creating exclusive products.

In a statement about the investment, Wavemaker Partners principal Phuong Tran said, With its strong agent base and initial focus on financial products, MFast has achieved impressive results. Wavemaker is proud to strengthen our partnership with the company and support it as it enters its next phase of growth.
The day before he announced the end of his short-lived presidential campaign, Francis Suarez filed a financial disclosure statement with the Federal Elections Commission revealing more than a dozen previously undisclosed lucrative side gigs held by the Miami mayor since the beginning of 2022.

In his federal financial disclosure, dated Aug. 28 and released publicly on Tuesday, Suarez listed income ranges for 15 consulting arrangements or jobs, including his mayoral compensation, and five investment properties  putting his total income for the past 20 months somewhere between $2.1 and $12.9 million.

This is the first time that Suarez  a part-time mayor with annual compensation of around $130,000 from the role  has reported income earned from outside work, which is not required for state and local disclosures.

Even on the low end of the income ranges, the federal disclosure reveals a previously unknown level of wealth for the Miami mayor, whose personal net worth went from negative numbers just 10 years ago when he first took public office to $3.4 million at the end of 2022.

Instagram posts by developer Rishi Kapoors URBIN Condos brand, show Miami Mayor Francis Suarez (center left) and former commissioner Ken Russell (second from the left) at the groundbreaking for the co-living project in Coconut Grove. Suarez was paid $10,000 a month by the developer.

Suarez can legally hold outside employment so long as his private work does not conflict with his duties as an elected official. But as his wealth ballooned in step with his years in office and his work for a local developer came under federal investigation, Suarez faced growing criticism for refusing to disclose a comprehensive list of his outside employment.

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He insisted he was concerned for his clients confidentiality. But Suarezs hesitance was ultimately trumped by his presidential ambitions.

Presidential candidates are required to file a more complete accounting of income sources than mandated by local and state laws, which do not require the mayor to list sources of income that account for less than 5% of his annual net earnings.

About one-third of the income listed on Suarezs federal disclosures came from previously unreported sources, including Legacy Wealth Advisors, a Brickell-based consulting firm catering to ultra-high net worth individuals; ONEOF, an NFT platform; and City National Bank of Florida, a Miami-based financial institution that issued the mortgage for Suarezs residence. Suarez paid off his mortgage last year.

His substantial earnings were made from a patchwork of contract jobs and other nonemployee compensation in industries like technology and real estate that the mayor frequently promotes from his public office. Suarez received stock options from Redivider, a crypto currency mining company where the mayor is a minority investor, that was previously looking to open a mining operation in Homestead. He received a percentage commission from certain transactions at Dreamer Capital, a company with almost no online presence that shares an address with the Brickell firm. Suarez noted he went on leave from the firm in August.

In 2021, Suarez promoted Bilt Rewards  a New York-based company that allows customers to earn points by renting properties within the companys network  on X, the platform then-known as Twitter, saying the firm was one he hoped to attract to Miami. Although its unclear when Bilt started paying the mayor, his federal financial disclosure shows Suarez received between $50,000 and $100,000 from the company since 2022.

More details were also revealed about the mayors previously disclosed work as a senior operating partner for DaGrosa Capital Partners, a Coral Gables-based private equity firm from which Suarez receives a $360,000 salary, plus profit sharing, according to his federal disclosure.





Employment agreements that Suarez reported as active at the time of filing did not include his work for Quinn Emanuel Urquhart & Sullivan, the international law firm that hired Suarez as an attorney in 2021 as it looked to expand in South Florida. However, in a different section of his federal disclosure, Suarez indicated he was still working for the firm. A spokesperson from Quinn Emanuel previously told the Herald that Suarez was put on unpaid leave following the announcement of his presidential campaign.

Ultimately, the firm paid him between $1 million and $5 million dollars, making it his largest single source of income in the past two calendar years.

Neither Suarez nor his campaign responded to the Heralds request for comment.

Aside from the array of side gigs and handful of investment properties, the federal disclosure paints a sparse financial portrait of the mayor who has tried to build up his national brand as a modern, tech-savvy businessman. Suarez disclosed no significant investments outside of real estate. No stocks or bonds. No retirement account. No college savings plans for his young children. Just two bank accounts and a Strike wallet, which he uses to convert his city paychecks into digital currencies.

While his presidential campaign was built on his reputation as the Bitcoin mayor, the latest disclosure shows Suarez has less than $15,000 currently invested in into crypto.

Also notably absent from the filing was any indication of income generated by Suarezs wife, Gloria, founder of an event planning company, Cymbidium Events. Spousal income sources dating back to the previous calendar year are required to be detailed as part of the candidate disclosure form.

The federal filings also revealed one apparent inconsistency between this report and an earlier state disclosure by Suarez. In the state form filed in July, Suarez disclosed a board of managers position at the local technology conference eMerge Americas. The amount of income was not required to be disclosed on that form. The subsequent, more detailed federal filing said he received $10,000 a month, the same figure the Heralds independent reporting revealed he received for consulting for local developer Location Ventures. But Suarez did not include Location Ventures on the state form.

It is not clear why he would treat two apparently equal income streams differently on his disclosures.

Under the states rules, reporting requirements are based on size of payments in relation to overall income. In this case, the monthly payments appear identical.

Suarezs business relationship with Location Ventures came under state and federal investigation in June, following Herald reporting that revealed the mayor was quietly receiving $10,000 per month from the company as his office intervened to help the company overcome a permitting and zoning issue stalling a Coconut Grove project. The new disclosures show that since the beginning of last year, Suarez received between $100,001 and $1 million from Location Ventures.

While the latest disclosure is required of all active presidential candidates, it is not required by candidates who dropped out before the filing deadline. Suarez, who previously received an extension, could have applied for a second extension before his Aug. 28 filing deadline.

Instead, he filed the disclosure and dropped out of the presidential race the next day.
Miami Mayor Francis Suarez dropped out of the Republican presidential primary on Tuesday, the first candidate to do so heading into 2024.

On X, formerly known as Twitter, Suarez said his campaign "has been one of the greatest honors of my life," and he said he will continue working to amplify Hispanic voices.

"The Left has taken Hispanics for granted for far too long, and it is no surprise that so many are finding a home in Americas conservative movement. Our party must continue doing more to include and attract this vibrant community that believes in our countrys foundational values," Suarez wrote.

The mayor did not join other GOP candidates onstage last week at the first Republican debate, after failing to meet the Republican National Committee's polling requirements.

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Suarez did not endorse another candidate, rather saying in his post he plans on "keeping in touch with the other Republican presidential candidates and doing what I can to make sure our party puts forward a strong nominee."

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Miami Mayor Francis Suarez drops out of 2024 GOP presidential race
The News

Miami Mayor Francis Suarez , who did not qualify for the first Republican presidential debate, announced Tuesday that hes dropping out of the race for the White House.

While I have decided to suspend my campaign for President, my commitment to making this a better nation for every American remains, Suarez said on social media.

Know More

Suarez met the GOPs debate threshold of 40,000 donors after his campaign promised contributors $20 gift cards and the chance to win tickets to Lionel Messis first game with Inter Miami. But he did not meet the RNCs polling criteria, Politico reported.

Suarez said at the Iowa State Fair that if a candidate doesnt meet the minimum requirements for the debate, they should drop out of the race.

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I agree that if you cant meet the minimum thresholds, you shouldnt be trying to take the time involved away from being productive, he said.

Suarez, the only Hispanic candidate in the Republican field, launched his bid for president in June, leaning on a tough-on-crime stance. He became the third Floridian to join the crowded GOP primary, after former President Donald Trump and Gov. Ron DeSantis, and was considered a long shot for winning the White House.
Miami Mayor Francis Suarez announced Tuesday that he's suspending his long-shot 2024 Republican presidential race after he failed to make the cut for the GOP debate stage last week.

In an announcement on Tuesday, Suarez said "running for president has been the greatest honor of my life." He also vowed to continue to "amplify the voices of the Hispanic community - the fastest-growing voting group in our country."

"The Left has taken Hispanics for granted for far too long, and it is no surprise that so many are finding a home in America's conservative movement," Suarez said. "Our party must continue doing more to include and attract this vibrant community that believes in our country's foundational values: faith, family, hard work and freedom. Younger voters, Independents, urban voters and suburban women- all of whom I've carried in previous elections - among others, should find a comfortable home in the GOP and its policies."

Suarez is the first Republican to drop out of the 2024 race.

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Suarez announced ahead of the debate that he had qualified for it by meeting the polling requirements and the donor threshold, claiming to have received donations from "nearly 50,000," well above the party's requirement of 40,000. He had also signed the Republican National Committee (RNC) pledge to support the candidate who wins the nomination.

Republican presidential candidate Miami Mayor Francis Suarez greets diners at the Machine Shed restaurant after having breakfast with his family and members of his campaign staff on July 29, 2023 in Urbandale, Iowa. / Credit: Scott Olson / Getty Images

But soon after his announcement, an RNC staffer familiar with the debate planning said Suarez had not been certified as a debate participant.

He later conceded during an interview on Fox News that he was behind on "one national poll or one state poll." He had earlier said that if a candidate didn't make the debate stage, that candidate should drop out.

Suarez, who is Cuban American, made a pitch for his candidacy based on his track record as Miami mayor, a part-time position he's held since 2017, when he was working as a lawyer in a Miami firm. The city mayor's job is a more limited role than the Miami-Dade County mayor's. Suarez, a real estate lawyer, also served in the Miami City Commision from 2009-2017.

Since announcing his candidacy in July, Suarez had focused on topics related to the economy and the crisis at the U.S. southern border, which he visited in early August. There, he unveiled a plan proposing investment in Latin American countries to help solve the immigration crisis.

Suarez, the only Latino in the race, was one of four candidates who failed to qualify for the debate stage. Larry Elder and Perry Johnson, two of the other candidates, said they'll take "legal action against the RNC" over the debate qualification process.

Aaron Navarro contributed to this report.

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 Flash

At the invitation of Wang Yi, a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and Minister of Foreign Affairs, James Cleverly, Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs of the United Kingdom, will pay an official visit to China on August 30, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin announced Tuesday.
Following his failure to qualify for the first Republican presidential debate, Miami Mayor Francis Suarez publicly acknowledged on Tuesday what had been evident for at least a week: that a years-long effort to build his national profile and mount a credible presidential campaign had gone bust.

Suarez, an attorney and private equity executive, announced his decision to end his campaign on social media.

His bid for the White House lasted 76 days.

While I have decided to suspend my campaign for President, my commitment to making this a better nation for every American remains, the 45-year-old mayor posted on X, the site formerly known as Twitter.

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While always viewed as a longshot, Suarezs attempt to jump from City Hall to the White House drew only tepid interest from Republican voters, with the mayor polling around 0.2%, according to FiveThirtyEights average of national polls. He quietly raised millions of dollars into a super PAC to fund a run for the long-haul, but his campaign  which he began teasing as far back as 2021  struggled to earn attention in a crowded field.

Now, Suarez must return to city leadership with some political bruises as a term-limited mayor with little authority on the City Commission and no clear political trajectory.

If you put this much energy into launching a presidential campaign, you hope you can stay in it and be relevant, said Sean Foreman, a Barry University political science professor. He really was not part of the equation at all.

When Suarez launched his campaign on June 14, he had hoped to present himself as a young, optimistic option for Republican voters considering alternatives to former President Donald Trump , Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis and other GOP presidential candidates already running.

READ MORE: Miami Mayor Suarez is in GOP presidential race: Unity is more powerful than division

After entering the race late, he leaned into the fact that he was the only Hispanic candidate at a time when Republicans appear to be making some inroads with historically left-leaning Latino voters. He continued to promote himself as a tech-savvy politician, accepting donations in Bitcoin. On the trail, he talked up Miamis successes and said hed replicate them nationally, touting the city as an exception to declines in other major metro areas.

But even some of his own supporters now say he wasnt prepared for the national stage, despite spending much of 2022 traveling the country as the president of the U.S. Conference of Mayors.

He proved that hes not ready to run for president, said developer Moishe Mana, downtown Miamis largest single landowner, who gave $100,000 to a PAC supporting Suarez in December.

Neither Suarez nor his campaign representatives responded to requests for comment.

Miami Mayor Francis Suarez greets supporters with his wife, Gloria, before his first speech as a candidate for the 2024 Republican presidential nomination at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in Simi Valley, California on Thursday, June 15, 2023.

Was I deluding myself at some level?

Suarezs candidacy was largely viewed as an effort to build his national profile, rather than a legitimate threat to win the GOP nomination. But the short-lived campaign may not have built his brand the way hed hoped.

Notable moments included a gaffe a conservative radio show, an AI chatbot Suarez-lookalike that repeated the mayors signature phrase, how can I help? and several fundraising gambits to solicit Venmo donations to try and get onto the GOP debate stage  including raffling front-row tickets to Lionel Messis Inter Miami debut and offering $20 gift cards in exchange for $1 contributions.

Suarez was also dogged in conservative media by his vote for president in 2016 against Trump and in 2018 for Andrew Gillum, the Democratic opponent of DeSantis in the Florida governors race. Other Florida Republicans trashed his campaign, including former Miami-Dade mayor and U.S. Rep. Carlos Gimenez, who called him a fraud in an interview with Fox News the day after Suarez launched his campaign and accused him of taking credit for others accomplishments in Miami.

Ford OConnell, a longtime Republican strategist, called Suarezs campaign a profile-building exercise  that collided with reality.

You really cant run for president as a part-time executive on a whim and expect it to just automatically work out, OConnell said. Hes telegenic, hes athletic, he had the central casting part down. He was just missing the substance.

OConnell also noted that primary voters were turned off by his votes against Trump, though Suarez spent much of his campaign defending the former president  a tactic that confused at least one major campaign donor.

Mana, the Miami developer, told the Miami Herald in an interview last week that he contacted Suarez several times during the campaign to express disappointment with the mayors refusal to criticize Trump and to question the validity of the criminal indictments against the former president.

I told him I totally disagreed with him, Mana said.

He said Suarez eventually asked the developer to stop contacting him.

Suarez was also hounded on the campaign trail by the Miami Heralds reporting about his private wealth and an FBI investigation into his work for a developer who had paid him $10,000 a month and leaned on his office to help cut through red tape at City Hall. (On Monday, just before suspending his campaign, Suarez filed a financial disclosure required for presidential candidates, revealing previously unknown sources of income.)

RELATED CONTENT: MAYOR FOR HIRE

But ultimately, the death knell for his White House aspirations was his failure to make the first presidential debate in Milwaukee  after erroneously declaring that he had qualified.

Its probably his last stab at trying to be relevant at all, Keith Naughton, a Washington-based Republican consultant, said after Suarez released a video celebrating a debate appearance that never materialized. But jumping the gun like this  if he doesnt make it, its embarrassing.

READ MORE: RNC advisers shoot down Suarezs claim he qualified for the GOP debate in Milwaukee

Suarez often projected an air of confidence during his campaign, even declaring in the days before the debate that any candidate who couldnt make the stage should get out of the race. But the mayor, during an Aug. 19 podcast interview with John Quinn of the Quinn Emanuel law firm, where Suarez is of counsel, acknowledged that the presidential campaign had been more challenging than anticipated, comparing it to an episode of Survivor.

During the interview, he compared the transition from campaigning for mayor to the presidency to going from high school basketball directly to the pros. He added that he thought he could parlay previous positive media coverage into regular appearances on primetime news channels.

And that hasnt happened, Suarez said. And that makes it harder to build a name.

Suarez admitted there were times during the short-lived campaign where he doubted himself.

Did I really make the right decision? he recalled thinking throughout the process. Was I deluding myself at some level? Did I miss some signs?

Back to reality

Suarezs announcement on Tuesday ended a week of silence. Since acknowledging that he had incorrectly announced that he would be on the presidential debate stage in Milwaukee, the mayor had stayed off social media, forgone interviews and ignored questions from reporters. His campaign and the SOS super PAC supporting his candidacy had stopped advertising on Facebook.

Loose ends likely remain from his campaign, such as paying staff and vendors. Its unclear how much money he has left in his official campaign account or whether he will refund contributions, nor is it known what will happen with the money stashed away in the super PAC.

Also unclear: Suarezs whereabouts over the last week. He was not at City Hall when a reporter showed up on Tuesday, nor was he at his home in Miami, according to a city police officer stationed outside the mayors house. Attempts to reach him and his spokesperson via cell phone went unanswered.

At the Suarez campaign headquarters in Coral Gables Tuesday morning, a couple stacks of mail and a few paper airplanes sat on the front desk, which was unoccupied. Barry Bennett, a campaign staffer who was previously an adviser to Donald Trumps 2016 presidential campaign, told the Herald the Suarez campaign was still alive for now, and to stay tuned.

About an hour later, Suarez announced on social media that he had withdrawn from the race.

At some point, the mayor must return to Dinner Key, where Suarez will be tasked with addressing old, familiar problems from potholes to an ongoing housing crisis. Next month, his administration will need to get a new budget passed.

The mayor is still the mayor, said Commissioner Sabina Covo, and we are colleagues that need to work together to improve the quality of life for our residents, which is my priority.
(Bloomberg) -- European Council President Charles Michel proposed setting a target date for the bloc to get serious about admitting new members as Ukraine and other applicants press to rejuvenate the stalled enlargement debate.

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I believe we must be ready  on both sides  by 2030 to enlarge, he said Monday at the Bled Strategic Forum in Slovenia, adding that EU leaders will discuss the topic at their next summits.

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Michel said the leaders will take a stand on opening formal accession talks with Ukraine and Moldova, and that they will also reengage on Bosnias prospects.

Last week, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy attended a dinner with Western Balkan leaders in Athens where enlargement was the prime topic. The debate has become increasingly urgent as the EU seeks to blunt Russias efforts to wield influence in the region, but it also remains quite sensitive inside the bloc, because of the complicated histories of the applicants and because it will entail significant budgetary tradeoffs.

Lets be honest, we have sometimes used  maybe we have abused  the lack of progress of future member states to avoid facing our own homework, our own preparedness, he added. We must now take a serious look at the EUs capacity to absorb new members.

Michel said leaders will discuss whether to allow applicants to begin participating in selecting EU meetings after they complete specific requirements toward membership.

Dritan Abazovic, the prime minister of Montenegro, criticized Michels targets, saying, 2030 for us, for Montenegro, is too far. He added that integrating Western Balkan countries is a question of security and future economic development.

Earlier Monday, French President Emmanuel Macron said that in the next few months, the EU will go through a double-sided movement with surely, institutional changes for both deeper integration and enlargement, especially toward the Western Balkans.

The risk would be to do what weve done before: that is, to think about the enlargement process without thinking the reform through. I can easily testify that thats its hard enough for a Europe with 27 members to make progress on essential topics  and it wont get any easier with 32 or 35 members, to say the least.

He added that one possibility was a multi-speed Europe, with varying partnerships between different groups of members.

--With assistance from Ania Nussbaum.

(Updates with quote from Montenegrin leader in 7th paragraph)

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The first schools in the Midlands are starting to alter their schedules because of the approach of Hurricane Idalia.

The storm moving north from the Gulf of Mexico is expected to dump half a foot of rain or more on the Midlands Wednesday and Thursday as it moves across the state, forcing school districts to rework their schedules ahead of the inclement weather.

Fairfield County announced a staggered early dismissal schedule that will see all schools released between 11:30 a.m. and 12:20 p.m. Wednesday, as well as canceling all after-school activities Wednesday.

The Orangeburg County School District was the first in the Midlands to announce hurricane-related changes on Tuesday. Most elementary schools in the county will dismiss at 11:30 a.m. Wednesday, the district announced, followed by middle schools at 12:30 p.m. and high schools at 1 p.m.

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On Thursday, schools in Orangeburg County will start on a two-hour delay. All after-school programs and events for Wednesday are canceled, and scheduled events for Thursday will be reassessed on the day, the school district announced.

Parents, please understand that OCSD does not make these decisions lightly; but based on timely information required for the safety of our students and employees, and especially our novice student drivers, the district said in a news release.

Coming out of the Gulf of Mexico, Idalia (pronounced ee-DAL-ya) is expected to make landfall in Florida early Wednesday morning. But it wont be that strong by the time the storm passes over South Carolina later in the day.

Idalia is forecast to return to a tropical storm, albeit a strong one, when it moves through the Midlands on Wednesday and Thursday, the National Weather Service said.

The greatest threats that Idalia poses to the Midlands are heavy rains, which could lead to flooding, and strong winds, according to the National Weather Service.

This story will be updated as more schools announce changes to their schedules.
SAN DIEGO (Border Report)  The number of migrant deaths along the Tijuana-San Diego border this year is just one shy of what it was for all of 2022 as more migrants are choosing to take dangerous routes into the U.S., the Mexican National Institute of Migration said.

David Perez Tejada, director of the institute, said 38 migrants have died already this year while attempting to cross the border unlawfully in the San Diego Sector.

He added that in all of last year, the figure was 39.

They cross in the ocean, deserts and mountains. Its very risky for families and individuals because they could drown, fall and suffer serious injuries, which happen in many cases, he said.

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A spokesperson with U.S. Customs and Border Protection says their figures show the number of migrant deaths so far this year is 35.

Tijuana launches program urging migrants not to scale border barrier

Migrant advocates north of the border say the number is way too low.

Pedro Rios is the director of the American Friends Service Committee. (Salvador Rivera/Border Report)

These numbers probably dont reflect the real numbers, said Pedro Rios, director of the American Friends Service Committee. I know many people who die but arent found when they die. This is not only here in San Diego County but also in other border states.

El Paso shelters filling up with unsponsored migrants

Rios says part of the blame lies on the CBP One app, which is promoted as the best way for migrants to get an appointment to cross the border at a port of entry but has seen migrants grow tired and desperate when those appointments dont materialize fast enough.

President Biden was trying to promote it as a way for people to seek asylum in a safe way, but we know thats not the case and, unfortunately, that creates greater desperation and frustration amongst migrants, he said.

Sexual violence rife against migrant women

Rios stated this leads migrants to take risks.

A lot of the anti-asylum measures push migrants trying to cross into the U.S. through very treacherous ways whether its mountains or deserts or climbing a 30-foot border wall where the risk of dying is very high,

Rios believes the U.S., Mexico and other countries could easily make things safer for migrants.

Visit the BorderReport.com homepage for the latest exclusive stories and breaking news about issues along the United States-Mexico border

Both the U.S. and Mexican governments and all the other governments need to center their policies on immigration around human rights. Until we address those things, youre going to continue to see a high number of people that are dying in their attempt to cross into the U.S. for a better life.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego.
The News

The call to Coral Briseno, 43, came at 1:43 a.m., two years ago on August 29th. She remembers because she hadnt slept after hearing about the bombing at Abbey Gate during the U.S. emergency evacuation from Afghanistan. And her son, Marine Corps Corporal Humberto A. Sanchez, hadnt logged onto Facebook Messenger in the last 20 hours.

We have information about your son, she recalled the person saying. She still has the voicemail.

Briseno and nine other family members of the 13 servicemen and women who died at Hamid Karzai International Airport will attend a roundtable on Capitol Hill this afternoon to discuss the Aug. 26, 2021 terrorist attack  and they have questions. Briseno wants a detailed accounting of the day, the mission, and the decisions leading up to it, and said a 3,000-page book that officers allowed her to view was so heavily redacted it was challenging to understand.

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I want them to come and say, We messed up. We did it wrong, and we are so sorry, Briseno told Semafor during a phone interview.

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The Republican-led House has been investigating the withdrawal since taking the majority. Its a sensitive topic for the White House, which has argued it was constrained by the Trump administrations prior decisions and that intelligence agencies did not anticipate the U.S.-backed government would collapse so quickly.

In his latest request, House Foreign Affairs Committee Chair Michael McCaul, R-Texas asked the Pentagon to make available a high-ranking officer that could speak to claims that a sniper was denied permission to engage after reporting a suspected suicide bomber shortly before the attack, which killed more than 170 Afghans in addition to the American casualties. Before that, McCaul sought the militarys after action report as well as a State Department dissent cable that members of the committee were able to view after months of demands and a subpoena threat.

Earlier this month, Rep. Darrell Issa, R-Calif. hosted the Abbey Gate family members for a hearing at the Escondido City Hall in California. Darrin Hoover, 55, the father of slain Staff Sgt. Taylor Hoover, appeared at the August 8 event and will also be in the Capitol today petitioning for more information.

They can start by telling us the TRUTHS of what happened in the days and weeks leading up to that fateful day, Hoover told Semafor in a group chat with other family members. Why did they wait SO long to start evacuating our citizens until it became a crisis in the truncated timeline that this administration placed on our military? This should not and cannot happen anymore.

Notable

In the first excerpt of his forthcoming book on President Bidens first two years, The Atlantics Franklin Foer chronicles the administrations handling of the Afghanistan withdrawal in August 2021.
Milwaukee Brewers starting pitcher Adrian Houser throws during the first inning of a baseball game against the San Diego Padres Sunday, Aug. 27, 2023, in Milwaukee. (AP Photo/Morry Gash) (ASSOCIATED PRESS)

CHICAGO (AP)  The Milwaukee Brewers placed right-hander Adrian Houser on the 15-day injured list on Monday with right elbow stiffness.

Houser started Sunday's 10-6 victory over San Diego, but he was lifted after two innings. He was charged with four runs and four hits.

I know he came in feeling pretty good today. He was optimistic about how he felt, manager Craig Counsell said before the Brewers beat the Chicago Cubs 6-2 for their ninth straight victory. Before I kind of express real optimism, I'd like to kind of see how the next couple days go. But we're hoping this could be a short stint and that he'll be back pitching and maybe just miss a couple starts.

The 30-year-old Houser is 5-4 with a 4.58 ERA in 19 appearances for the NL Central leaders, including 17 starts. Counsell said there are no plans to send Houser for an MRI right now.

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The Brewers recalled right-hander JB Bukauskas from Triple-A Nashville. Bukauskas has no record and a 3.00 ERA in three big league appearances this season.

Milwaukee has off days on Thursday and Sept. 7, but Counsell said the team is leaning toward replacing Houser in the rotation while he is sidelined.

We can change our mind, but we want to keep our starters in a good spot, he said. It's (Wade Miley's) day we'd have to move up. We've taken great efforts to keep him on a good schedule, and that keeps everybody else on a good schedule.

Milwaukee first baseman Carlos Santana got the night off, one day after he sprained his right ankle during the series finale against San Diego. Rowdy Tellez started at first in the victory over Chicago.

He just came in today sore enough where just playing would have been difficult, Counsell said.

___

AP MLB: https://apnews.com/hub/MLB
A farmer was killed in an explosion caused by a Russian landmine in Kherson Oblasts village of Novopetrivka on Aug. 29, the regional administration reported.

The farmer was cultivating a field when his tractor hit the mine left behind by the Russian army, according to the Kherson Oblast authorities.

The administration reminded that many fields in the region remain mined, urging residents to stay away from places not yet examined by sappers.

Croatia recently allocated one million euros ($1.1 million) for demining of Ukrainian agricultural lands, according to Economy Minister Yuliia Svyrydenko.

Read also: Every time feels like your last: How Ukrainian sappers work in gray zones near Russian-occupied Kreminna

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The funds will reportedly go to the UN World Food Program to help farmers and food producers resume work in Ukrainian regions most affected by the war.

During Russia's full-scale invasion, casualties due to mine explosions have become a regular occurrence in Ukraine. The large-scale mining of Ukrainian land makes it difficult and highly dangerous for local farmers to grow crops and harvest, risking the countrys vital agricultural industry.

Interior Minister Ihor Klymenko said on March 1 that nearly one-third of Ukraine's territory had been mined since February last year.

The State Emergency Service earlier reported that after the end of the war, Ukraine would need at least 10 years to demine its territory.

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
Mississippi residents have a right to life, liberty and electricity this Labor Day weekend.

If that last right listed looks out of place, Mississippi law says it isnt.

According to Mississippis consumer protection laws, a utility company may not disconnect services on weekends or holidays the company observes, unless the company is open to accept payments and restore services on those days.

Mississippi Power will be closed Labor Day weekend, but will be open for regular hours the prior Friday, Sept. 1.

Utility companies have a number of restrictions when it comes to disconnecting services. Here are a few of them.

Rules and regulations for service disconnection

Service may not be interrupted without five days written notice and proof the company used due diligence to give the customer notice and a reasonable opportunity to comply.

No utility shall discontinue service to a residential customer for nonpayment on any Saturday, Sunday or holiday observed by the utility company unless the company is open to accept payments and reconnect services.

The utility company must reconnect by the first business day after the due balance has been received.

If a utility employee comes to your door to collect an overdue payment and the utility has not been disconnected, the company can charge an extra dollar for having to dispatch someone to retrieve the payment. If the utility is disconnected by the time the employee visits the residence, the company can charge a $2 reconnection fee.

The mid-winter rule

Mississippis mid-winter rule protects residents from losing utilities in December, January, February and March.

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Residential customers who are unable to pay the full amount of their utility bill because of extreme financial hardship may qualify, according to state regulations.

There are a few steps the customer must take to qualify for the mid-winter rule:

The customer must inform the utility company in writing that they cannot pay the bill due to extreme financial hardship prior to the cutoff date and time provided on any disconnection notice received. The written notice must be delivered to the utility company accompanied by the residents most recent utility bill.

Once the notice is received, the utility cannot disconnect services from December to March, provided the customer agrees to an extended payment plan.

And the mid-summer rule?

According to the Washington Post, more than 40 states have laws similar to Mississippis mid-winter rule, preventing disconnections during extremely cold months.

However, only 19 states have similar laws for extreme heat. And yes, Mississippi is one of them. Residential customers have the right to avoid disconnection of power due to nonpayment if, as of 8 a.m. on the scheduled disconnection day, the National Weather Service has issued an Excessive Heat Warning for the residents county.

According to NWS, excessive heat warnings are issued when heat indices are expected to reach at least 105 degrees for at least two hours per day, usually for a multi-day event.

Heres the extended payment plan

The full amount due must be paid by Nov. 11.

The utility company can determine the minimum monthly payment based on the customers 12 previous months of service. The previous 12 bills are added and divided by 12 to determine the payment amount. If the resident has not had service for the full 12 months, the company can use the bills of an average residential customer who lives in the same area.

The first lowered payment is due the day of the agreement.

What can you do if you think you will be late with a payment that is not yet due?

According to Mississippi law, the customer has the right to negotiate with any electrical or natural gas company to set up a delayed payment plan and avoid disconnection.

If a resident is approved for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), but the bill payments have not started before the bill is due, the resident can show the notice of approval to avoid interruption of service. As long as the payment will be made within 30 days.

Mississippi Power offers additional assistance programs, including Project Share (up to $300 for those who are elderly, handicapped or disabled) and discounts for those who qualify for Temporary Aid to Needy Families (TANF) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI).
Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey appeared on two shows this week hosted by a co-defendant of former President Donald Trump in the Georgia election interference case to tout the states new law restricting some forms of health care for transgender youth.

Bailey, a Republican, was interviewed twice by Jenna Ellis , a former lawyer to Trump who is under felony indictment over allegations she solicited public officials to violate their oaths of office by unlawfully appointing fake presidential electors. Trump, Ellis and 17 others have been accused of a sprawling conspiracy in Georgia to overturn the former presidents 2020 loss in the state.

During a podcast posted online Monday and a radio appearance Tuesday, Bailey and Ellis spoke about a St. Louis judges decision on Friday that allowed a new Missouri law restricting gender-affirming care to go into effect while a legal challenge against it proceeds. Neither commented on the Georgia case during the interviews.

But Baileys decision to go on the podcast is remarkable. Missouris chief legal officer, a role that at times involves prosecuting criminal cases, is appearing with an individual accused of committing a felony to advance a conspiracy to overturn a presidential election in another state.

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It is not often that you see the top law enforcement officer of a state appearing with someone credibly alleged to have participated in a racketeering entity and indicted on multiple felony counts related to overthrowing an election in particular, Anthony Michael Kreis, an assistant professor of law at Georgia State University College of Law, wrote in an email.

But this is no ordinary case and some partisan players, including elected officials, are liable to turn to their tribal allegiances because of the politics of the moment. One would hope that rather than circling the wagons with political allies, a state attorney general would want to wait and assess the evidence presented in a court of law, Kreis wrote.

He added that theres surely a political benefit to anyone eyeing a higher officer by playing to the base rather than waiting for facts to emerge.

Asked whether he had any concerns about the appropriateness of appearing with an individual under felony indictment, Bailey responded in a statement that he is more concerned with the medias presumption of guilt when everyone knows the criminal justice system requires a presumption of innocence.

The media should be reporting on the obvious two-tiered criminal justice system, with different standards being applied to Joe Biden s political opponents, Bailey said.

Bailey was appointed attorney general by Gov. Mike Parson after working as his general counsel and took office in January. He is locked in a competitive fight for the Republican nomination for attorney general with Will Scharf, a former federal prosecutor.

Bailey has pursued an agenda seemingly designed to delight conservative primary voters, including attempting unsuccessfully to restrict gender-affirming care through regulations and trying to slow down an initiative petition to restore access to abortion.

And like many GOP officials, Bailey has been dismissive of the latest indictment of Trump.

After a Georgia grand jury indicted Trump, Ellis and others earlier this month, Bailey attempted to paint the indictment as a First Amendment violation. He also promoted Missouris lawsuit alleging the White House violated the First Amendment by working with social media companies to suppress conservative viewpoints  part of a larger effort by Republicans to cast Biden and Democrats as attempting to muzzle them, whether through investigations or on social media.

The Georgia indictment brought by Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis alleges that in early December 2020, Ellis  along with Trump lawyer and former New York mayor Rudy Giuliani, conservative lawyer John Eastman and Georgia-based attorney Ray Stallings Smith  solicited and requested Georgia state senators to unlawfully appoint presidential electors during a Georgia Senate Judiciary subcommittee meeting.

The indictment describes Ellis as urging state lawmakers in Arizona, Michigan and Pennsylvania to appoint fake presidential electors. It also alleges Ellis wrote a memo on Dec. 31, 2020, to Trump outlining a strategy for disrupting and delaying the Jan. 6, 2021 joint session of Congress to count electoral votes by urging Vice President Mike Pence to not open any of the votes from Georgia and six other states.

Pence resisted pressure from Trump and others to block the certification, ultimately leading Trump supporters to erect a gallows and search for the vice president when they stormed the Capitol that day.

The Democrats and the Fulton County DA are criminalizing the practice of law. I am resolved to trust the Lord and I will simply continue to honor, praise, and serve Him, Ellis tweeted following the indictment.

Ellis was censured in March by Colorado legal officials after admitting to making 10 misrepresentations on television and Twitter during Trumps fight to stay in power following his 2020 election loss. In one instance, Ellis falsely said on Fox News that we have over 500,000 votes (in Arizona) that were cast illegally.

Republican lawmakers generally havent shied away from Trump in the aftermath of his four indictments, particularly as his legal troubles have appeared to draw increased support from the conservative base of the Republican Party. Among Missouri voters who dont support President Joe Biden, 52% said they are most likely to support Trump, according to a Saint Louis University-YouGov poll released last week. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis comes in next, at 17% likely support.

Most lawmakers have defended Trump against the charges, calling the indictments politically motivated. Missouris U.S. Senators, both of whom served as Missouri attorney general before taking office, have repeatedly stood by the former president.

I think Andrew Baileys doing the correct thing and hes following in the footsteps of his predecessor in that office, state Rep. Brian Seitz, a Branson Republican, said.

Sen. Eric Schmitt, who has endorsed Trump, has been dismissive of the cases, saying he believes lawyers are protecting Biden while prosecuting Trump. There are open Department of Justice investigations into Hunter Bidens business deals and into Bidens handling of classified documents.

Sen. Josh Hawley, who has said he believes Trump is the likely Republican nominee in 2024 but has not formally endorsed him, has openly accused the FBI and Department of Justice of a political attempt to take down the former president.

Baileys appearances on Elliss podcast, The Jenna Ellis Show, and on her radio show, Jenna Ellis in the Morning, came amid a victory tour touting the decision by St. Louis Circuit Judge Steven Ohmer to deny a motion for a preliminary injunction blocking SB 49, the new state law restricting gender-affirming care.

Ellis said on the podcast that Missouris success offered a blueprint for other states to follow.

I think that all 50 states should take your lead, Ellis told Bailey.

The Associated Press contributed reporting
Sen. Mitt Romney (R-Utah) called out his own party ahead of a looming fight with Democrats over government funding that is set to take place once Congress returns next month from its annual summer recess.

Lawmakers must pass a bill funding the government by Sept. 30, but demands for steep spending cuts from the ultraconservative wing of the House GOP are ratcheting up fears of another costly government shutdown.

When President Trump was president you didnt hear anything from we Republicans about how we were spending too much and trillion-dollar deficits  quiet as little lambs, Romney noted in an interview with Utah news host Boyd Matheson on KSL Sunday Edition. Now President Biden is president, Oh, were going to shut down government if we dont rein in spending. Well, we do need to cut back on spending but a little less hypocrisy would be a good thing.

Romney argued that Congress should instead rein in spending on entitlement programs  a major driver of deficits that neither party is eager to tackle  and predicted a lot of screaming and shouting in Washington that will ultimately result in a government shutdown this fall.

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Well end up shutting down the government and a lot of people will be inconvenienced, Romney said. Its not like that means well win. No, no, we just shut down government to show were fighting and make noise.

Recent history has seen an uptick in government shutdowns, which shutter federal services and parks, harm the economy, and increase unemployment. In 2013, Republicans shut down the government over demands to defund the Affordable Care Act. The two government shutdowns during President Donald Trumps tenure in 2018 and 2019 occurred due to disputes over immigration policy.

The House Freedom Caucus announced earlier this month that its members wont vote to keep the governments lights on unless they get concessions on border security, unprecedented weaponization of the Department of Justice and woke policies at the Department of Defense. Theyll be facing off against the White House, Senate Democrats and even some national security-minded Senate Republicans who prefer to fund the government, especially the Pentagon and its efforts to aid Ukraine

To threaten to close down government is ridiculous, Sen. Ben Cardin (D-Md.) told reporters last week. It costs the taxpayers money. It costs taxpayers services. It causes uncertainty within the [financial] markets. its totally irresponsible to do that.

House Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) has indicated he would back a stopgap bill that would avert a shutdown for several months, until December. But its unclear whether it would have enough support within his caucus.

Along with the Freedom Caucus list of demands, Republican House members are demanding all sorts of things in order to keep government running, including provisions seeking to defund probes and prosecutions of Trump. One GOP lawmaker is even planning to introduce amendments that would eliminate federal funding for the three prosecutors who indicted Trump, signaling the kinds of grievances on the right McCarthy will have to navigate once the House returns in September.
A 19-year-old was shot and killed as she slept at her home over the weekend in middle Georgia.

WJBF reports that Khia Shields was asleep at her home in Jefferson County when she was shot around 1 a.m. Saturday.

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Her mother, Shereka Pitts, told WJBF that she walked into her room with a gunshot wound to her chest.

Im up, looking shes looking at me, Im looking at her, Pitts said. She had her hands held out like, Mommy, Mommy, Im shot.

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Shields was rushed to the hospital, where she died.

The teen, who was a beloved employee of the Walmart in Grovetown, Ga., had just celebrated her birthday last week. Family members said she planned to be an educator. She had just started her sophomore year at Georgia Southern.

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The Walmart set up a memorial to honor Shields at the store.

Pitts told WJBF that her mission now is to stop gun violence in her daughters name.

Just put the guns down, Pitts said. Im going to keep her name alive. Im gonna keep speaking on her until we can come up with a solution to stop gun violence.

Shields is one of more than 90 Georgia teens and children who have been shot to death this year.

Its unclear who fired the gunshots or if Shields was the target. The Georgia Bureau of Investigation is one of the agencies looking into the case. Investigators told WJBF that gang activity has ticked up recently in the area.

The GBI is asking anyone with information to contact the Wrens Police Department at (706)-547-3232 or the GBI Thomson Office at (706)-595-2575. You can also text the Wrens Crimeline at (706)-872-6755.

The family has set up a GoFundMe to help with funeral expenses.
Everyone loves moms. Everyone. And thats a problem for groups like Moms for Liberty.

The group revels in its inflated reputation as a national powerhouse, but its century-old playbook has always had a fatal flaw.

As the 1970s story of Alice Moore shows, white conservative mothers have always had great initial political success, but that appeal tends to spiral quickly out of their control.

Moores story might sound familiar. She rocketed into national prominence in 1974 by taking over her local school board, blocking books and fighting for parents rights. She ran as a nonpartisan mother, but in truth, she was an experienced activist for conservative causes. Long before she ran for school board, she had fought against abortion rights and against sex education in schools. She railed against public schools alleged progressive agenda, accusing them of destroying our childrens patriotism, trust in God, respect for authority and confidence in their parents.

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Once on the school board of Kanawha County, West Virginia, Moore ignited a dramatic boycott of a new series of textbooks. She inflamed conservative opinion nationwide by claiming that the books trampled on parents rights. Moore warned that the new books would force white kids into feeling guilt and anguish about Americas racism.

Moore did not invent her powerful political persona. She modeled her career on that of Texas Norma Gabler. Gabler had become a national powerhouse in the 1960s by blocking history textbooks and forcing publishers to tell a more conservative story. Though Gabler always called herself just a Texas homemaker or Longview housewife, she ran a staff of eight, combing through textbook copy to sniff out progressive content.

Gabler, in turn, modeled her organization on that of the Daughters of the American Revolution. As far back as the 1920s, DAR leaders campaigned to keep Americas public schools fundamentally Anglo-Saxon. Back then, DAR claimed almost 200,000 members. Anne Rogers Minor , DARs national leader at the time, claimed that it was their role as patriotic mothers to Guard well your schools. Minor warned that too many teachers taught ideas that parents might not like. As Minor put it, We want no teachers who say there are two sides to every question.

DARs activism was powerful and lingered for decades, but their sprawling, angry organization always ranged beyond the control of the national leaders. In 1963, one DAR member in Mississippi humiliated the group with her violent opposition to a widely used childrens book. The book, The New Our New Friends (1956), had been read for years in Mississippi public schools. It told cheerful moral stories about cute baby animals, as when Bobby Squirrel discovered he could get a nut just by asking for one. One local DAR leader, though, accused the book of spreading subversive socialism by teaching children, like Bobby Squirrel, to expect a collective welfare system. DAR had worked hard to maintain their reputation as Americas maternal conscience. This kind of strident, frenzied activism, however, opened up the group to mockery from all sides, as when historian James Silver sarcastically praised the Mississippi DAR for keeping the states children safe from the dangerous story of the squirrel storing nuts.

By the 1970s, Alice Moores career repeated the pattern. Just like Norma Gabler and DAR, Moore attracted huge support, seemingly overnight. Her warnings about new textbooks led to a boycott of local public schools. The fledgling Heritage Foundation scrambled to send support. The White House, too, voiced its enthusiasm for Moores vision. President Fords commissioner of education, Terrel Bell, opposed any textbooks that insult the values of most parents.

As Alice Moore quickly found, however, her meteoric success came at great cost. Her inflammatory language about public schools and teachers led to a spate of bombings and shootings. The school board building was rocked by a dynamite bomb. Two elementary schools were firebombed. Nonconservative members of the school board were physically attacked and pummeled at a public meeting. The districts superintendent went into hiding, moving from couch to couch every night to escape incessant death threats. Soon school buses came under hails of sniper fire. Along the turbulent picket lines, two people were shot; thankfully, both survived.

Moore disavowed the violence, but she couldnt escape the fact that her rhetoric had directly caused it. Similarly, when the Ku Klux Klan rolled into town to support the boycott, Moore insisted she had nothing to do with their campaign. She also said she had nothing to do with the burning cross outside the school districts headquarters in 1975, and it seems very likely she was telling the truth. Yet when the Klans local leader articulated his vision for public schools, his language was the same as Moores. Just like Alice Moore, the Klan promised to return patriotism and Christianity to our schools. They claimed to be joining the national campaign to stop the breakdown of morals among our children.

Alice Moore denounced it all, but the damage was done. The boycottnow indelibly associated with the Klanfizzled. A student march in favor of the controversial books attracted thousands of supporters. The books remained in schools, though parents had to sign a permission slip for a few of the titles.

The lesson for Moms for Liberty is clear. It is easy to get quick support by standing up for children and parents rights. It is simple to spread alarm about teachers as groomers and the possibility that white children might feel guilty about racism. But that support can be dangerous.

The political dangers have become painfully obvious. Moms for Liberty has always struggled to control its message. One local group in Tennessee embarrassed the organization in 2021 by calling for a ban on a book about seahorses because the book was too sexy. More recently, another local chapter infamously quoted Adolf Hitler. The national leadership scrambled to explain the obvious. The quote was not meant to endorse Hitler, but rather to endorse parents rights.

But the backpedaling only underlined the obvious point: The Moms were out of control. Its not only about embarrassing gaffes. Just as earlier conservative women attracted the support of violent right-wing men, todays Moms are also supported by militant right-wing groups. At some school board meetings, Moms have been backed up by menacing ranks of Proud Boys. The Proud Boys have threatened and fought with parents for wearing COVID masks or supporting the rights of LGBTQ+ children.

With or without intimidating backup from the Proud Boys or other right-wing organizations, threats have become an ominous part of the Moms playbook. Local leaders have been convicted of harassment for threatening their neighbors. As one victim described on the witness stand, a local Mom said shed find my family. In Livingston County, Michigan, the chair of the local Moms chapter made no attempt to soft-pedal her warning. As she told the school board: Were coming after you. Take it as a threat. Call the FBI. I dont care.

Moms for Liberty has found that, like Alice Moore before them or DAR before that, speaking in the name of Moms can lead to rapid growth. But it is frighteningly easy for that growth to spread out of control, making it difficult to avoid violence and the threat of violence.

By maligning schools and smearing teachers as sexual predators, Moms for Liberty is playing with the same ideological dynamite that wreaked havoc in Alice Moores Kanawha County. It is terrifyingly easy to predict whats in store: more violent extremists will heed the Moms call to seize control of schools, using whatever means necessary.
Two Montana men killed a mama grizzly bear over the weekend after officials say she charged them.

The men from Whitefish were scouting for hunting season in thick forest near the Smokey Range Trailhead in the Flathead National Forest on Saturday when they came across the bear and her cub, surprising them, Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks said Monday in a news release.

When the mama bear charged them, the men shot and killed her. In the process, one of the men was accidentally shot in the back shoulder and had to be treated at a hospital, the agency said.

Tennessee: 'Another day in the (Smokies)': Watch Bear run onto Tennessee high school football field

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Montana: Two orphaned black bear cubs rescued from den after mom hit by car

Bears death ruled self-defense

Wildlife officials investigating the shooting found that the mama bear's behavior seemed to be defensive and a result of the men surprising her.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service ruled the bears death as self-defense.

Grizzly bears are currently listed as a threatened species in 48 states, which means it is illegal to harm, harass or kill the bears unless it is self-defense or the defense of others, according to the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service. There are at least 1,923 grizzlies in the 48 contiguous states.

No history of conflict

The grizzly bear had no history of conflict with humans and was previously tagged for population monitoring in 2009, according to Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks. She was 25 years old.

The agency said it would continue to monitor the site in hopes of assessing the cub's health.

If the cub is OK, it's better off staying in the wild and "has a pretty good chance of survival," said Greg Lemon, a spokesman with Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks.

"If it looks healthy, we'll probably leave it be," he said, adding that other orphaned cubs in the area have survived without their mothers.

If the agency were to trap it, the cub would need to be taken to a zoo and if none could take it, would be euthanized, he said.

A Grizzly bear mother and her cub walk near Pelican Creek October 8, 2012 in the Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming.

What should I do if I encounter a bear?

If you find yourself in bear country, here are some ways you can stay safe:

Carry bear spray

Travel in groups whenever possible

Make casual noise to let bears know youre nearby

Stay away from animal carcasses because they attract bears

If you encounter a bear, never approach it and leave the area when it is safe to do so.

Never feed wildlife because bears that become food-conditioned lose their natural foraging behavior and pose threats to human safety. It is also illegal to feed bears in Montana.

Look for signs of bears, such as scat, and be cautious around creeks and areas with limited visibility

Be aware that elk calls and cover scents can attract bears

A black bear sits on a picnic table eating a jar of mayonnaise at The Chimneys Picnic Area in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina. Park and forest visitors should always keep food items stored in car trunks or bear-proof canisters.

Food storage guidance is great to follow in areas where bears are prevalent, Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks recommends on its website. Its highly important to follow food-storage orders from land management agencies, the agency said.

If meat is left in the field, hang it at least 10 feet off the ground and at least 150 yards from the gut pile, the agency said. It's also a good idea to leave the meat where it can be seen from a distance of at least 200 yards.

Be sure to observe the meat with binoculars too, the agency said. If it has been disturbed or if a bear is in the area, leave and call wildlife officials.

For people in homes, people should keep garbage, bird feeders, pet food and other bear temptations in a secure building. Garbage should be secured until the day it is collected or kept in a certified bear-resistant container.

New York: Black bear euthanized after attacking 7-year-old boy in New York

Yellowstone: Authorities search for grizzly bear that attacked woman near Yellowstone National Park

USA TODAY reporter Amanda Lee Myers contributed to this report.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Montana men kill charging mama bear; case ruled self-defense
A 32-year-old Ontario man who shot and killed a teenager in what prosecutors called a love triangle pleaded guilty Tuesday and was sentenced to 24 years in prison.

Montels Holland pleaded guilty to an amended charge of involuntary manslaughter with firearm and repeat violent offender specifications, as well as four counts of having weapons under disability, three with forfeiture specifications. Holland was ordered to forfeit two rifles and a .22-caliber handgun.

In a separate case, Holland pleaded guilty to assault on a corrections officer for an incident at the Richland County Jail.

Gavel and scales

Holland's trial had been scheduled to begin Tuesday before Common Pleas Judge Phil Naumoff. He initially faced 13 charges, including aggravated murder.

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Holland shot and killed 16-year-old Nayshawn Lovett at the Quality Inn on Trimble Road on Jan. 3. A hotel employee reported hearing multiple gunshots inside. While searching the premises, Mansfield police found Lovett lying in a staircase.

"Plain and simple, it was a love triangle," First Assistant Prosecutor Teri Burnside said. "His ex-girlfriend was 21, and the victim was 16."

Holland was arrested several days later at a Columbus apartment.

Of his 24-year prison sentence, 14 years are mandatory. Burnside said Lovett's family approached her about a plea bargain.

"We were ready to go (to trial). This was driven by the victim's family," she said. "They came to me and said instead of going through a two-week trial, we want it resolved this way."

Burnside said family members' wishes always are taken into account.

"As long as the family is fine with the resolution ... that's their loved one," she said.

Burnside said the state appreciated the assistance of the staff at the Quality Inn, as well as Mansfield police and Lovett's family.

Defense attorney Catherine Meehan could not immediately be reached for comment.

mcaudill@gannett.com

419-521-7219

X (formerly Twitter): @MarkCau32059251

This article originally appeared on Mansfield News Journal: Ontario man sentenced to 24 years in prison in fatal shooting
Wildlife officials found more than 150 bats inside a Utah high school and about 600 outside the building as students returned to class from summer break last week.

The Brazilian free-tailed bats entered the building through small openings on the third floor of the school, Utah Division of Wildlife Resources non-game mammals biologist Shawn Pladas said in a statement to USA TODAY Monday.

The bats can enter buildings "through vents and siding so it isnt uncommon for this to occasionally occur, Pladas said.

The high school is located in Salt Lake City, Utah, local station KSLTV reported. Highland High School's first day of school was Aug. 22, according to its website.

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USA TODAY has reached out to the school for more information.

Pladas said a control company removed some of the bats inside the school and they set up devices so bats wont be able to get back inside the building. He said there were about 150 to 250 bats inside the school.

Once all of the bats have left, the entry points are permanently sealed, Pladas said.

'It was surreal': Mississippi alligator hunters bag 14-foot, state record monster

Various bat species, including Brazilian free-tailed bats, can be found in Utah.

Two school staff members potentially exposed to the bats

Two school staff members were potentially exposed to the bats and both were recommended post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP), Salt Lake County Health Department Communications Director Nicholas Rupp said in a statement to USA TODAY Monday.

PEP consists of a dose of human rabies immune globulin and rabies vaccine given on the day of exposure and then three more doses of the vaccine over the next 14 days, according to the CDC.

Rupp said they are not aware of students being exposed to the bats, and they do not expect additional exposures or any illnesses.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: More than 150 bats found inside Utah high school as students returned
The Moscow City Court rejected the appeal of Russian warlord Igor Girkin , who has been arrested on charges of extremism, the Interfax news agency reported on Aug. 29.

"The decision of the Meshchansky Court in Moscow from July 21, 2023, on preventive measures in the form of detention against Girkin for a period until Sep. 18, 2023, is left unchanged, the appeal is rejected," the court decreed.

The lawyers of the Russian militant, who is also known under the alias Strelkov, asked the court of a higher instance to overturn the decision of the Meshchansky court and choose milder restraint measures.

Girkin's legal representatives argued with the suspect's allegedly poor health and noted that he is a recipient of various awards. The lawyers also pointed out that he actively cooperated with the authorities during the investigation.

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The arrestee himself reminded that he is unlikely to run abroad due to his conviction by a court in The Hague, and insisted on his innocence regarding the extremism charges opened against him in Russia.

Girkin is a former officer of Russia's Federal Security Service (FSB) who played a major role in the Russian aggression against Ukraine's Donbas region in 2014.

In April of that year, he organized the seizure of the town of Sloviansk, Donetsk Oblast, initiating Russia's war in the Donbas. Girkin admitted later in an interview that he had "pulled the trigger" of Russia's war.

He also proclaimed himself the "defense minister" of Russia's proxy forces in Donetsk Oblast.

Girkin has been found guilty by The Hague court of participating in the downing of Malaysia Airlines Flight MH17, which killed 298 people in 2014.

During the full-scale invasion of Ukraine, he has often lambasted the Kremlin for mishandling the war effort. Girkin co-founded the Club of Angry Patriots, a hardline nationalist movement pushing for more extreme measures to achieve victory over Ukraine.

He was arrested on extremism charges on July 21 in a sign of the Kremlin's crackdown against the pro-war opposition in Russia. Girkin is being held in the Lefortovo pre-trial detention center in Moscow.

Read also: Putin cracks down on pro-war opposition as all-out war falters

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
A mother has filed a lawsuit against Chick-fil-A on behalf of her teenage son, alleging that an order of chicken nuggets sent him to the hospital with a severe allergic reaction.

On Aug. 16, a complaint was filed with the Supreme Court of the State of New York in the county Of Erie over eight causes of action, including negligence, infliction of emotional distress and unfair and deceptive business practices, as first reported by Insider. The plaintiffs, J.P. and his mother, Francine Powers, allege that a misrepresented order of chicken nuggets ordered from a Chick-fil-A restaurant in Erie sent the boy, who has a life-threatening dairy allergy, into anaphylaxis.

Chick-fil-A declined to comment for this story.

J.Ps mother, Ms. Powers, trusted Defendants products were safe for her son, the lawsuit reads, adding that before ordering food from the Chick-fil-A, Powers checked the nutrition and allergen disclosures on its website to confirm that the Grilled Chicken Nuggets didnt contain dairy, and it said they didnt.

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The plaintiffs say that on Aug. 13, 2022, they visited the Chick-fil-A located on Transit Road in Depew, New York, which is owned and operated by co-defendants the Privitera family. The store operators did not respond to a request for comment from TODAY.com.

Prior to placing an order, Ms. Powers disclosed J.P.s life-threatening dairy allergy to the Chick-fil-A employee, who responded that the Grilled Nuggets did not contain dairy, the lawsuit reads, adding that because of the employees response, she ordered the nuggets as well as an order of waffle fries for her son.

The suit states that soon after eating the order of nuggets from the Chick-fil-A restaurant, J.P. started to feel ill, so Powers contacted the store in question and was again told there was no dairy in either the Grilled Nuggets or Chick-fil-A Waffle Potato Fries that he had consumed. Powers says she was also told that there had been no recent changes to the ingredients in either of those items.

J.P. then began foaming at the mouth, excreting excessive saliva and mucus from his mouth and nose, and felt his throat start to close, the lawsuit continues. Plaintiffs state that the teen was then rushed to a nearby pediatric emergency facility, and by the time he arrived, he had a swollen face and was in pain from experiencing what they say was a dangerous allergic reaction.

Powers says, 10 days later, she spoke with the Chick-fil-A location two times about the possibility of dairy being in the items that J.P. consumed, claiming both times she was told that neither item contained dairy.

Then, Powers claims, on Aug. 29, 2022, she saw a post in a food allergy support group alerting members that the Grilled Nuggets served at Chick-fil-A restaurants did in fact contain dairy.

The suit claims that more than 10 days after J.Ps anaphylactic reaction and hospital visit, Chick-fil-A changed its nutrition and allergen disclosure on its website so show that the product contains dairy.

Powers is seeking a trial by jury and substantial damages.

In August 2022, Chick-fil-A announced in a statement that its Grilled Nuggets and Grilled Filets contained an undeclared dairy allergen due to a supplier mishap, adding that it was actively working with its supplier to ensure the allergen would be removed. The chain also said that the issue wouldnt happen again, saying at the time, Our priority is that our impacted guests can enjoy these products again soon.

As for whether or not dairy is still listed as one of the allergens for those menu items, the Chick-fil-A website now reads, We are happy to inform you that the dairy ingredient has been fully removed from both the Grilled Filets and the Grilled Nuggets.

This article was originally published on TODAY.com
The motive for the shooting at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill that left one faculty member dead Monday afternoon is still unclear, according to police.

Officials said a suspect was taken into custody about an hour and a half after gunfire on UNCs campus was reported at a science building. Police have yet to identify the suspect or the victim, noting it was not clear whether the two knew each other.

To actually have the suspect in custody gives us an opportunity to figure out the why and even the how, and also helps us to uncover a motive and really just why this happened today. Why today, why at all? UNC Police Chief Brian James said. And we want to learn from this incident, and we will certainly work to do our best to ensure that this never happens again on the UNC campus.

Just after 1 p.m. Monday, James said UNC Police received a 911 call reporting there were shots fired at Caudill Labs. Two minutes later, university officials issued an emergency alert and a lockdown, which lasted for hours as the police conducted their search for the suspect.

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When officers arrived at Caudill Labs, they found one faculty member fatally shot. At about 2:30 p.m., the suspect was taken into custody, James said during a news conference.

The lockdown was not lifted until around 4:15 p.m. so police could confirm they apprehended the correct suspect, the chief added. He also said the weapon has not been found yet.

We are looking for a firearm. It is too early to determine if the firearm was legally obtained, James added.

Classes started at UNC about a week ago. Officials canceled classes Monday afternoon and Tuesday.

I am grieved the report that one of our faculty members was killed in the shooting, UNC Chancellor Kevin Guskiewicz wrote in a statement, noting the school is waiting until next of kin is notified to release additional information on the victim.

The Associated Press contributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
[Source]

U.S. tech company Scale AI is being accused of failing to abide by labor standards for its workers living abroad in the Philippines, according to new Washington Post report.

About Scale AI: Scale AI, a $7 billion San Francisco-based start-up, is one of several American AI companies that hire workers from other nations, reported The Washington Post. The software company owns Remotasks, a platform that lets thousands of outsourced remote workers annotate data for AI model training. These workers differentiate objects in videos, label images and edit text to improve AI algorithms.

Exploitation in the Philippines: The Philippines is reportedly one of the largest destinations for outsourced digital work. Over 2 million people in the Philippines are estimated to be part of "crowdwork" in the AI industry. However, they often face exploitation and low pay. The Southeast Asian nation struggles to regulate such platforms due to the absence of protective mechanisms.

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Far below minimum wage: Scale AI collaborates with major companies like Meta, Microsoft and Open AI. While the start-up claims to pay a living wage, Filipino workers have claimed that they have experienced delayed or withheld payments, with others stating that they earn far below minimum wage.

More from NextShark: Myanmars military-appointed election body charges Suu Kyi with electoral fraud

For example, 23-year-old Filipino worker Charisse told The Washington Post that Remotasks only paid her 30 cents for four hours of work. Jackie, 26, said he received $12 for working on a project for three workdays, thinking that he would earn $50. Benz, 36, said he collected more than $150 in payments when he was suddenly booted from the platform and never received his money.

Growth of online freelance work: The rapid growth of online freelance work is particularly notable in the Global South, with India and the Philippines accounting for a significant portion. The data collection and annotation industry is projected to reach $17.1 billion by 2030, with the majority of this work being performed in India and the Philippines alone. Many workers there, however, find themselves in digital sweatshops and earn extremely low rates as they work to support the Wests booming business of artificial intelligence (AI).

The industrys exploitation of labor parallels the ethical and regulatory concerns surrounding AIs bias and potential misuse. However, for Filipinos struggling to find work in their country, they are left with no choice.

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Detectives with the Iredell County Sheriffs Office issued murder warrants for Kadeem Jamar Fetherson, 32, of Charlotte, for the 2020 killing of Aaron Bruce Holland.

The investigation began on June 25, 2020, when Holland was found dead in his home on Damron Lane in Harmony.

PAST COVERAGE: Man found dead in living room of Iredell County home, deputies say

Authorities said the investigation led them to believe Fetherson was a possible suspect in the suspicious death.

Fetherson was arrested a week later in Forsyth County after fleeing from deputies, the sheriff said.

Forsyth County deputies seized a stolen firearm, 31 grams of methamphetamine, 44 grams of cocaine, and 141 grams of marijuana.

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Iredell County Sheriffs Office Detectives obtained search warrants for the seized electronic devices, including a cellphone.

Fetherson was placed at the scene of the crime, because of the investigation into digital evidence.

During the homicide investigation, Fetherson was convicted on numerous drug and weapons charges, which were unrelated to the homicide investigation.

He is currently imprisoned at the Federal Bureau of Prisons in Bennettsville, South Carolina.

Fetherson is not scheduled for release until February 2026. The murder warrant will be served after he is released from federal prison.

The hard work and dedication of the investigators and initial responding deputies concluded with the arrest of this career and repeat offender for the murder of Aaron Bruce Holland, said Sheriff Darren Campbell, Iredell County.

Fethersons criminal history: Two counts of misdemeanor possession of marijuana, felony possession of marijuana, felony common law robbery, three counts of felony possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, felony larceny, felony breaking and entering, felony possession with intent to sell or deliver schedule ii controlled substance, misdemeanor possession of drug paraphernalia, felony possession of heroin, felony possession of a weapon of mass destruction, felony possession with intent to sell or deliver marijuana, misdemeanor carrying a concealed weapon, felony habitual felon.

VIDEO: 9 arrested after months-long drug investigation in Iredell County, sheriffs office says
MURFREESBORO Tenn. (WKRN)  Thousands of acres of land are burning in the state of Louisiana.

We were contacted Friday afternoon, said Murfreesboro Fire Chief Mark McCluskey.

Thats when McCluskey learned Louisiana firefighters needed help.

Florida governor declares widespread state of emergency ahead of Idalias expected landfall

They reached back out early Saturday morning, he said. They left out at six (a.m.) and left Franklin to head to Louisiana at eight the next morning.

Fourteen firefighters and personnel make up the Tennessee Task Force Strike Team. Four of those firefighters are part of the Murfreesboro Fire Department.

MFRD Engineer John Fisher, Captain Matt Welcome, Engineer Matt Tidwell and Dillon Meyer left for Louisiana to help with wildfires on a 21-day deployment. (Source: Murfreesboro Police Department)

We always send a well trained crew, said McCluskey. We send a captain, an engineer, and the firefighters with them.

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Check out the News 2 Severe Weather Resources Guide

For the next 21 days, McCluskey said his men will be on the ground backfilling stations whose firefighters are out working the massive fire.

So were actually inside their fire stations right now ,covering their local calls other than the wildland fire calls, he said.

This experience his men are gathering is something he, too, is familiar with. It was seven years ago when McCluskey left Nashville to help crews battling the Gatlinburg wildfires.

MTSU Police Department using grant to strengthen school security

We backfilled one of the downtown stations, he said. We had to have someone from their department ride with us because there (were) certain roads in the mountains that our equipment could not go.

McCluskey said this deployment is no vacation, and he hopes his firefighters can use their skills to help a community in need.

I hope they get the experience of seeing how they are helping people (and) realize that anywhere is vulnerable for these types of situations, he said.

Download the free News 2 StormTracker App

McCluskey said firefighters and personnel from Brentwood and Franklin also left Sunday to help. He also said they have firefighters ready to help if they are needed out in Florida as Tropical Storm Idalia approaches.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRN News 2.
Since 1987, In-N-Out has served up burgers and fries with Bible verses on the package.

Pick up an In-N-Out soda cup and you will see John 3:16, For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life, according to Taste of Home.

It isnt the only place the burger chain puts on packaging. The milkshake cup has Proverbs 3:5 written on it, Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. Order a Double-Double and you may see Nahum 1:7, The Lord is good, a stronghold in the day of trouble; and he knoweth them that trust in him, per Taste of Home.

The chain popular for animal style fries is not the only business putting Bible verses on products. Heres a look at some businesses which do.

In-N-Out

In-N-Out has already been mentioned, but the chain has other verses printed on its product. The burger wrapper has Revelation 3:20 on it, Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with that person, and they with me, KTLA reported.

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The fry trays have Proverbs 24:16, For though the righteous fall seven times, they rise again, but the wicked stumble when calamity strikes, per KTLA. John 13:34 appears on the hot cocoa cups, A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.

Coffee cups have Luke 6:35 on them, But love ye your enemies, and do good, according to the Christian Post.

In-N-Out CEO Lynsi Snyder told the Christian Post, It was my uncle Rich who put the Bible verses on the cups and wrappers in the early 90s, just before he passed away. He had just accepted the Lord wanted to put that little touch of his faith on our brand. Its a family business and will always be, and thats a family touch. In later years, I added verses to the fry boat, coffee and hot cocoa cups.

Forever 21

Forever 21 is known for affordable trendy clothing, but you may not know that the iconic highlighter yellow shopping bags had (its unknown if the verse is still on them) John 3:16 written on them, according to The New York Times.

It shows us how much God loves us, Forever 21 founder Do Won Chang told CNN in an 2012 interview. The love he gave us, by giving us his only son, Jesus, was so unbelievable to me. I hoped others would learn of Gods love. So thats why I put it there.

Cook Out

Burger and BBQ chain Cook Out printed Bible verses on its wrappers, according to Mashed. Proverbs 1:7 appeared on the cup. The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, fools despise wisdom and instruction, is what the verse reads.

On the food wrappers, you can find Galatians 6:10, Proverbs 3:5-6 and Psalms 19:14, too. Respectively, these verses read:

So then, whenever we have an opportunity, let us work for the good of all and especially for those of the family of faith, per Bible Gateway.

Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not rely on your own insight. In all your ways, acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths, according to Biblia.

Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable to you, O Lord, my rock and redeemer, per Bible.com.

Trijicon

Trijicon, a company that sells guns and gear, puts scripture references on products, according to the Trijicon website.

Trijicon places a small Biblical reference on the products we sell. It is a tradition started by our founder, and we continue it as a reflection of our company values. Although Trijicon has now offered to remove these references for military issued products, we will continue to inscribe our consumer products with Biblical references, per Trijicons website.

References include Zechariah 9:14, Psalms 91:5, Revelations 21:23, John 12:46, John 9:5, Romans 13:12, Isaiah 9:2, Micah 7:8, Revelations 22:5, Matthew 5:16, John 8:12, Job 12:22, Psalms 27:1, Psalms 119:105, 1 John 1:7, Psalms 119:105, 2 Kings 16:17, 2 Samuel 22:9, Psalms 34:3, Psalsms 18:28, 2 Kings 16:17, 2 Samuel 22:9, Psalms 34:3, Psalms 18:28, 1 Thessalonians 5:5, 2 Peter 1:19, Matthew 13:32, 1 Corinthians 4:5, Micah 7:8, Proverbs 4:18 and 1 John 1:6.

Goldhen Eggs

Rose Acre Farms  the farm behind the Goldhen Eggs sold at Aldi  puts a bible verse on the egg cartons. The verse is Psalms 118:24 and it is also on the farms website, This is the day which the Lord has made, let us rejoice and be glad in it.

The Bible verse came about on our cartons from our founder, David W. Rust, who held that verse special to him throughout his life, Rose Acre Farms told Aldi Reviewer. He had it placed on Rose Acre Farms egg cartons in 1980, where it has remained to this day! It has always garnered letters of sincere appreciation from customers all across the USA as a positive message of hope.

Food for Life

Food for Life, the company behind Ezekiel bread, has a couple of products named after Bible verses: the Ezekiel 4:9 bread and the Genesis 1:29 bread. Both these products come in a variety of different types (i.e. english muffins, regular bread loaves, pita, etc.).

Then God said, Behold, I have given you every plant yielding seed that is on the surface of all the earth, and every tree which has fruit yielding seed; it shall be food for you, the verse reads, per the Food for Life website. The Genesis 1:29 bread is made out of 16 different kinds of whole grains and seeds.

The Ezekiel 4:9 bread is made from a combination of six grains and legumes that creates a complete protein, according to the Food for Life website. Its named after the verse that reads, Take also unto thee wheat, and barley, and beans, and lentils and millet, and spelt and put them in one vessel.
When Republican Sen. Tammy Nichols of Middleton reads the words, far-right extremists, in a political commentary, she knows that the side she generally represents won the debate.

They have already lost the argument, so its not worth my time to try to bring any kind of logical conversation into the discussion, she told me. (The writers) are going from trying to have a conversation to getting personal about it.

She has a point. Influence peddlers who employ labels essentially are speaking to the choir  those who agree that those far-right extremists are a menace to society. But name-calling mostly does nothing to sway people on the right.

I call it label lynching. Its when they disagree with you, but dont have a solid argument, so they label you. It was a tactic used during the times of Karl Marx, or Nazi Germany when they attacked the Jews. When I hear that (far-right extremist), and its directed at me, it reinforces to me that Im on the right track, Nichols said.

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What weve learned is that the name-calling and bullying we heard on the school playground has not ended. People grow up, but they bring some of the names with them.

I remember those rough days on the playgrounds in Osburn. Here was one of the stoppers: Oh, yeah. Well, your mother wears Army boots. Fast forward some 60 years and its right-wing extremists, or fake news media.

Theres nothing new about name-calling in politics. From the conservative side of the fence, any Republican that doesnt score high on the Idaho Freedom Foundation index is labeled a RINO. Former President Donald Trump, the pride of the GOP, has turned name-calling into an art form.

During my early days of political reporting in Idaho, writers often used the term ultra-conservative to arbitrarily describe those who were perceived to be to the right (or far right) of center. Of course, that term applied only to Republicans; Democrats were never branded as ultra-liberals or liberals in general.

When somebody calls me a far-right extremist, I throw back the question. What does that mean? And they cant define it, Nichols says. Is a far-right extremist someone who upholds the constitution, believes in limited government, or stands up for peoples rights? Those are the things I stand for. So, I dont accept the label.

In the Idaho Statesman recently, an editorial suggested that far-right extremists ran off a Post Falls educator, Karen Lauritzen, who was selected as Idahos teacher of the year. The teacher apparently had friendly views toward the LGBTQ community, Black Lives Matter and transgender rights.

Not surprisingly, Nichols had a different view than the Statesmans editorial board. They used the term far-right extremists, but they didnt label the teacher as anything for pushing a radical agenda. She wasnt labeled as a far-left extremist. But they tell you about these right-wing extremists without telling you who they are or why they are extremists. If the teacher doesnt fit in with Idaho, then I say good riddance. But those concerns are not just in Idaho. There are plenty of parents everywhere who are riled up with the LGBTQ and transgender agenda pushes that are happening in education.

The Statesman apparently has its own idea about whats radical in the political world. But its probably closer to mainstream within the Idaho Republican Party, which largely has been taken over by conservatives. That transformation has been by design. In Nichols view, conservatives worked hard on the grassroots levels of the GOP, while the so-called establishment was asleep at the wheel. The efforts resulted in former Rep. Dorothy Moon taking over as the party chair and former congressional candidate Bryan Smith of Idaho Falls moving in as national committeeman.

The establishment wants to maintain the status quo, but thats what has been causing the demise in some states, Nichols says. Colorado is an example of what can happen in a few short years. People were not engaged and not on the ground educating voters, getting people to run for office, taking stances and being vocal. Those that are doing this are being labeled as right-wing extremists.

Those extremists might be an election or two from being the undisputed mainstream in Idaho. Editorial and column writers might think about visiting some school playgrounds for fresh name-calling material.

Chuck Malloy is a long-time Idaho journalist and columnist. He may be reached at ctmalloy@outlook.com.
A 24-year-old man has been charged with criminal homicide in connection with the fatal shooting of 54-year-old Lawrence Edwards Monday in South Nashville.

Metro Police say video surveillance shows Taishaun Jackson walk toward Edwards' pickup truck at about 11:30 a.m. Monday and fire several rounds into the vehicle, striking the victim.

Edwards was taken to Vanderbilt University Medical Center, where he died, according to police.

Witnesses at the scene described the suspect as matching Jackson's description.

Jackson was taken into custody within minutes of leaving the scene.

Police say surveillance footage shows the suspect throwing something over a fenced area as he fled. Police say they later recovered a gun in a tree.

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When interviewed by police, Jackson said he has amnesia. He is being held in lieu of $100,000 bond.

Reach reporter Craig Shoup by email at cshoup@gannett.com and on X @Craig_Shoup. To support his work, sign up for a digital subscription to www.tennessean.com.

This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Nashville police make arrest in Monday fatal shooting
If your main exposure to agriculture is eating, then you are probably oblivious to the battle currently being fought in our nations capital.

Its not pretty and is unlikely to be resolved by Sept. 30 when our current 2018 Farm Bill expires. For those of you more than a few years out of high school civics, the Farm Bill is a huge multi-year omnibus that covers everything from nutrition to crop insurance to conservation and all things agriculture related in between.

Samantha Gasson

Here on our family farm in North Carolina, weve been paying particularly close attention to the 2023 Farm Bill and the discussions surrounding it.

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There are a few bills currently introduced as part of the 2023 Farm Bill that will impact us directly but for the most part the Farm Bill is there to help the larger industrial farm businesses, and one of the EATS Acts is a prime example of a bill pandering to Big Ag. The Ending Agricultural Trade Suppression Act  (not to be confused with the Enhance Access To SNAP Act which is focused on removing barriers faced by low-income college students when applying for SNAP benefits)  seeks to eliminate states rights to regulate agricultural products beyond what is required by federal law.

As an independent family livestock farm in the northeast corner of Durham County with two college age kids weve been calling them the good and bad EATS Acts.

This farming household doesnt often weigh into politics, but the Ending Agricultural Trade Suppression Act is such an egregious overreach of power we wanted to. In very simple terms, the bad EATS Act will allow producers of agricultural products to ignore other states laws.

Big Ag and its supporters claim the bill would help farmers, reducing regulatory burdens by completely eliminating states ability to regulate agricultural products beyond what is required by federal law. This would be an incredible overreach of power, steamrolling the rights of North Carolinians to pass laws governing agriculture in our own state.

The EATS Act isnt going to help farmers like us who feed our communities, pay local taxes, and spend our hard-earned dollars right here in the Piedmont of our beautiful (albeit currently hot and sticky) state.

According to a recent analysis by Harvard Law School, this intentionally vague bill could potentially affect over a thousand state laws nationwide, including 19 in our home state. Every corner of agriculture has the potential to be affected. Regulations regarding invasive pests and plant diseases, prioritizing food purchased from local N.C. farms, milk quality standards and horse slaughter laws, could all be affected by the bad EATS Act. It is nothing but a race to the bottom.

It is incredibly disappointing that Sens. Thom Tillis and Ted Budd are so willing to throw under the bus the rights of North Carolinians to pass laws governing agriculture in our own state. U.S. Supreme Court Justice Louis Brandeis once said a single courageous State may, if its citizens choose, serve as a laboratory; and try novel social and economic experiments without risk to the rest of the country.

Whats at risk here is the right of local communities to live and eat as they see fit without the influence of corporations theyve never heard of dictating the terms of how the food they put on their table gets there. The states will still be the laboratories of democracy if we can keep it that way.

We hope youll join us in urging Congress to reject the dangerous Ending Agricultural Trade Suppression Act in the Farm Bill and support local farmers like us everywhere. Weve lost too many small farms.

Samantha Gasson is an independent N.C. farmer. She and her husband, Scott Stirrup , and their children operate Bull City Farm in Rougemont in northern Durham County.
On Wednesday a boulder sacred to the Kaw Nation will return to the tribe, 94 years after the city of Lawrence moved it. The city had taken the boulder from its original location at the confluence of Shunganunga Creek and the Kansas River to a park at the north end of Massachusetts Street and later defaced it with a plaque honoring the citys predominantly white founders.

A crew will move the boulder, named Izhujewaxobe or Sacred Red Rock, from Lawrence to Allegawaho Memorial Heritage Park near Council Grove, Kansas, land owned by the Kaw Nation.

We have been separated from our grandfather for more than 150 years and we look forward to being reacquainted, Jim Pepper Henry, vice-chairman of the Kaw Nation, said at a celebration of the rocks return Tuesday.

The celebration is the one public event marking the rocks relocation. The removal of Izhujewaxobe from Lawrence and its replacement in Council Grove are closed to the public because of their sacred nature.

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Henry said the Kaw people were first separated from the boulder, which is a prayer rock significant to the spiritual life of the tribe, in 1863 when white settlers forcibly removed the nation from their land that at one point included two-fifths of the state of Kansas. That separation, he said, was just one among many atrocities the white settlers inflicted on the tribe, annihilating much of their population, their culture and their language.

Just like Izhujewaxobe the Kanza people bear the scars of colonialist expansion, these scars will always be reminders of our plight and our struggle to remain Kanza, he said. And just like Izhujewaxobe our people are strong and resilient and we continue to persevere through adversity.

We cant change the injustices of the past but we can acknowledge that they occurred and we can strive for reconciliation.

The Lawrence City Commission voted in 2021 to return the Sacred Red Rock to the Kaw people. Last year, the Mellon Foundation awarded a $5 million grant to the University of Kansas to help fund the process of excavating and moving the monument.

In celebrating the successful return, the City of Lawrence issued a formal apology to the Kaw Nation, Tuesday, for the actions of city leaders in 1929.

The city and Douglas County offer a sincere apology to all the people of the Kaw Nation for actions community leaders in 1929 appropriating Izhujewaxobe to honor white settlers to on the 75th anniversary of Lawrence, Lawrence Mayor Lisa Larsen read from the apology.

Izhujewaxobes return to the Kaw Nation comes as Kansas tribes are seeking the return of Native American remains and funerary objects held by Kansas institutions, including KU and the Kansas Historical Society. Though a 1990 federal law requires organizations to return the artifacts, Kansas institutions have yet to return more than 580 Native American ancestors to their tribes.

Speaking to reporters at the celebration, Tuesday, Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly said she believed work was underway to ensure the artifacts are returned.

I think, right now, first thing we need to do is make sure those artifacts get back to their rightful owners, Kelly said when asked whether the state owes the tribe reparations.

The Stars Katie Moore contributed to this report.
Two Arkansas fugitives were arrested by Caddo Parish Sheriff's deputies over the weekend. According to the sheriff's office, Joseph Demarquez D. Dennis, 21, and King James Copeland, 25, were wanted out of Miller County, Arkansas, on felony gun charges.

The pair were arrested following a vehicle pursuit that started in Texarkana, Arkansas and ended in North Caddo Parish.

At approximately 6 p.m. Aug. 26, Caddo deputies were notified that two men wanted by the Miller County Sheriff's Office were traveling in a white van with a Louisiana license plate and heading southbound on I-49.

Deputies responded to mile marker 241 and deployed a tire deflation device to stop the suspects' approaching vehicle.

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According to the sheriff's office, Copeland attempted to avoid the deflation device and drove the vehicle into the median crashing the vehicle into a line of trees. The pair than escaped the vehicle and fled on foot into the woods south of Mira, Louisiana.

More: Former Shreveport Police Lieutenant charged with wire fraud for claiming unworked overtime

Deputies were sent on a search and Dennis was found in the woods nearly two hours later, and Copeland was found just before 11 p.m. walking in the 15000 block of Hosston/Rodessa Road by an off-duty deputy.

Deputies located several firearms, including a stolen AK-47 pistol, an AR-15-style pistol and drugs during the search.

Copeland was charged with four counts of Possession of Firearms by a Convicted Felon, Aggravated Flight from an Officer, Possession of a Stolen Firearm, Hit and Run, No Driver's License and In-State Fugitive for unrelated warrants issued by the Shreveport Police Department. Out-of-state charges are pending from Miller County.

Dennis was charged with Possession of a Stolen Firearm, Possession of Schedule I Narcotics, and Resisting Arrest. He also faces out-of-state charges from Miller County.

Both men were booked into the Caddo Correctional Center.

Read: Caddo Parish coroner identifies 55th homicide victim in Shreveport

Makenzie Boucher is a reporter with the Shreveport Times. Contact her at mboucher@gannett.com.

This article originally appeared on Shreveport Times: Arkansas fugitives found in Caddo Parish by sheriff deputies
The News

The case of Robert Malley , the Biden administrations suspended special envoy on Iran, keeps getting stranger.

On Sunday, an Iranian state news outlet, the Tehran Times, published what appears to be a highly sensitive State Department document. In an April 21st letter to Malley, the director of the Departments Diplomatic Security Office, Erin E. Smart, informed the diplomat that, for the time being at least, he couldnt be trusted with handling classified U.S. government documents and intelligence.

Her office received information regarding you that raises serious security concerns and can be disqualifying under a number of U.S. government guidelines, Smart wrote, according to the published copy of the letter. She added: Your national security eligibility, including your Top Secret security clearance, is suspended pending an ongoing investigation.

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The publishing of the letter in an Iranian news organ, and the State Departments refusal to comment on it, raised eyebrows on Capitol Hill and across Washington on Monday. Republican lawmakers have been demanding answers on Malleys status  without success  ever since he announced in late June that hed been suspended and had his security clearance revoked. The timing of the Diplomatic Security Offices letter is raising questions on Capitol Hill of whether Malley continued to perform some of his duties as special envoy even after the revocation of his security clearance. A spokesman for the Department on Monday told Semafor: We have nothing further to share at this time due to privacy considerations, but didnt challenge the authenticity of the letter.

Malley, rather than fading into the shadows after the April letter, however, has maintained his presence in diplomatic and academic circles  again raising questions about his future and status. On August 10th, he messaged from his private X account praise for a prisoner swap the U.S. government initiated with Iran, and which he played a part in negotiating. Princeton University also announced this month that Malley will be a visiting professor teaching diplomacy during the fall term, even as the FBI investigates him.

Staffers on Capitol Hill are also raising concerns about the Iranian governments access to State Department communications and deliberations. The Tehran Times article is just the latest in a string of scoops the outlet has published about the Malley affair, including U.S. government documents, audio recordings of the diplomat, and dates and reasons tied to his departure. So far, most have proven to be accurate.

The State Department needs to do a top to bottom security review, because Im concerned they have a leak, said Rep. Michael McCaul, R-Texas, chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, in a statement Monday night.
Ray Smith, a Georgia-based lawyer who was indicted for his role in a scheme to undo Joe Bidens win in the state in the 2020 election, on Monday pleaded not guilty to all charges and filed an arraignment waiver.

It is counsels understanding that by filing this waiver of arraignment, prior to the arraignment date, that Mr. Smith and undersigned counsel are excused from appearing at the arraignment calendar on September 6, 2023, the filing shared by CNN reads.

Smith is the first defendant to enter a plea in the case brought by Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis.

Former President Donald Trump and the 17 remaining defendants are set to be arraigned on Sept. 6.

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Smith surrendered to Georgia authorities last Wednesday and was released shortly after on a $50,000 bond.

This booking photo provided by the Fulton County Sheriff's Office shows Ray Smith on Aug. 23 in Atlanta, after he surrendered and was booked.

This booking photo provided by the Fulton County Sheriff's Office shows Ray Smith on Aug. 23 in Atlanta, after he surrendered and was booked.

The 12 charges against Smith include violation of Georgias Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act, solicitation of violation of oath by public officer, and conspiracy to commit false statements and writing.

The indictment alleges that Smith shared several lies during a Georgia Senate Judiciary subcommittee meeting in December 2020, including that at least 10,315 dead people voted in the state during the 2020 election.

He also allegedly encouraged several individuals gathered at the Georgia Capitol on Dec. 14, 2020, to sign a document that falsely declared Trump the winner of the states presidential vote.

Meanwhile, former White House chief of staff Mark Meadows on Monday testified at a hearing related to his request to get his case moved to federal court. At least four other defendants, including Jeffrey Clark, a Department of Justice official during the Trump administration, have made similar moves.
A Jackson, Miss., voter wears a "I Voted in Hinds County" sticker after casting his ballot, Tuesday, Aug. 8, 2023. Each voter in Hinds County receives a sticker upon receipt of a paper ballot. Voters statewide are selecting their party's nominees for a number of county and statewide offices in their respective Democratic or Republican primaries.

Voters throughout Mississippi will head back to the polls for the second time this month to settle races that have gone to runoffs.

Not every precinct will be open Tuesday, as most local races in the state did not advance to runoffs and none of the statewide races did, but for those that do face a decision Tuesday, the Clarion Ledger voter guide is here.

In order to see whether your precinct has any races Tuesday, and if so to view a sample ballot, voters can use My Election Day through the Secretary of State's website. The virtual tool can also be used to locate your polling place, track absentee and affidavit ballots and more.

In the Jackson area, there will be multiple state House seats up for grabs, as well as county supervisor races in Hinds and Rankin counties. There are no runoffs for Madison County supervisor races, though one of the legislative races includes parts of Hinds and Madison counties.

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Here are some of the runoff races that will be on the ballot in the Jackson-area Tuesday:

State House District 66

In District 66, which is in Hinds County and includes parts of Salem, Terry and a portion of Southwest Jackson, there will be a Democratic runoff to replace Rep. De'Keither Stamps, D-Jackson, who is running for the public service commission. Fabian Nelson, a real estate broker who is seeking to become the first openly LGBTQ state lawmaker, received about 42% of the vote Tuesday, while his runoff opponent Roshunda Harris-Allen received about 32%. Harris-Allen is a professor at Tougaloo College and alderman at large in the city of Byram. The winner of the runoff will go on to represent the district for the next four years, as they will face no Republican opposition in the general election.

More: Hear from Jackson District 66 House seat runoff candidates trying to replace Rep. Stamps

State House District 69

In District 69, which is in Hinds County and includes much of West Jackson, two Democratic candidates emerged to a runoff from the four-candidate race to replace longtime Rep. Alyce Clarke, D-Jackson, who announced her retirement earlier this year. Clarke was the first Black woman elected to the Legislature. Tamarra Butler Washington, who currently works for the Mississippi Department of Health, received more than 48% of the vote, falling short of the 50% needed. Butler-Washington's runoff opponent will be Patty Patterson, an entrepreneur who received about 30% of the vote Tuesday. The winner of the runoff will go on to represent the district for the next four years, as they will face no Republican opposition in the general election.

More: Hear from Jackson District 69 House seat runoff candidates, trying to replace Alyce Clarke

State House District 72

In District 72, which includes parts of Hinds and Madison Counties, two Democratic candidates emerged from another four-candidate race, this one to fill a seat left vacant when former Rep. Debra Gibbs, D-Jackson, stepped down to become a judge. Her son, Justis Gibbs, an attorney and member of the Mississippi Democratic Party executive committee, received about 41% of the vote Tuesday. He will face off against community organizer Rukia Lumumba, who received about 31%, in the runoff later this month. The winner of the runoff will go on to represent the district for the next four years, as they will face no Republican opposition in the general election.

More: Hear from Gibbs, Lumumba as Jackson-area District 72 MS House runoff election approaches

Hinds County supervisors

In Hinds County District Four, the Democratic supervisor primary ended with Wanda Evers earning the most votes, followed by incumbent Vern Gavin. Evers bested Gavin by just under 400 votes, earning 30.92%. Gavin earned 24.25% of the vote.

In Hinds County District Five, the Democratic supervisor primary race is also headed to a runoff. Earlier this month incumbent Bobby McGowan came in first with 37.6% and over 2,000 votes. He will face Malcolm Johnson in the runoff. Johnson was the second-place winner of the primary, earning 18.32% of the vote.

More: Some Hinds, Rankin county races headed to runoffs next week. See what races are on ballots

Rankin County supervisors

In Rankin County District One, the Republican supervisor primary race will be headed to a runoff. Sid Scarbrough and Michael Windham are competing for the seat. Scarbrough led the four-candidate Republican primary, winning 31.73% of the vote. Windham took home 27.29%.

Other legislative races

In House District Two, in Alcorn County, incumbent Republican Rep. Nick Bain, R-Corinth, fell about 2% short of the 50% needed to be reelected. Bain, who has served in the House since 2012, will face Bradford Mattox in the runoff. Mattox got about 35% of the vote in the primary, compared to 48% for Bain. The winner of the runoff will go on to represent the district for the next four years, as they will face no Democratic opposition in the general election.

More: Longtime legislators lost Tuesday, first Black Republican since 1894 elected to MS House

In House District 105, which includes parts of Perry County, incumbent Republican Rep. Dale Goodin, R-Richton, who is seeking his second term in the House, came within just a few percentage points of defeat Tuesday, as challenger Elliot Burch received more than 46% of the vote, compared to about 30% for Goodin. The winner of the runoff will face Democrat Matthew Daves in the general election.

In an open race for House District 115, which includes Biloxi and DIberville, Zachary Grady, a former DIberville police officer, received about 47% of the vote in the primary. Felix Gines, a member of the Biloxi City Council who became a Republican in December, received about 38%. The winner of the runoff will represent the district for the next four years, as they will face no Democratic opposition in the general election. If elected, Gines would be the second Black Republican elected to the House this month. No Black Republicans have served in the House since 1894.

Charlie Drape contributed to this story.

This article originally appeared on Mississippi Clarion Ledger: Voter Guide for the Jackson-area primary election runoffs Tuesday
Tampa International Airport (TPA) announced it will close Tuesday ahead of Tropical Storm Idalia, which is forecasted to strengthen into a Category 3 hurricane by Wednesday as it threatens Florida with dangerous rains, winds and storm surge.

TPA said it will suspend all commercial operations beginning at 12:01 a.m. EDT Tuesday and will remain closed until the airport can assess the damages later in the week. The airport said it anticipates reopening Thursday morning and will provide updates on its account on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter.

Some cargo and private aircraft operations may continue overnight Tuesday, but all air traffic will cease by 7 a.m. Tuesday, TPA said.

In a post on X, the airport urged travelers to check with airlines for flight updates and emphasized TPA is not being used as a shelter.

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Several portions along Floridas Gulf Coast, including Tampa Bay and the Big Bend region, are under storm surge, hurricane or tropical storm warnings, as they prepare for likely flash flooding and destructive winds Tuesday into Wednesday, the National Hurricane Center said.

As of 2 p.m. Monday, the National Hurricane Center said Idalia was moving north and is expected to pass near or over western Cuba by Monday night and then over the extreme southeastern Gulf of Mexico by early Tuesday.

Idalia is predicted to reach the Gulf Coast of Florida by Wednesday.

On a call with Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis (R) Monday, President Biden said he approved an emergency declaration for Florida ahead of the storm, freeing up additional federal resources for the states response.

Tropical Storm #Idalia is forecast to strengthen into a major hurricane before a mid-week landfall, DeSantis wrote in a post on X. Floridians should prepare now for heavy rain, flooding and power outages.

If an evacuation order is issued for your area, remember you do not need to leave the state. Travel tens of miles, not hundreds of miles to get to a safer location DeSantis added.

DeSantis said the state is activating 5,500 members of the Florida National Guard, staging 200,000 gallons of fuel, and preparing seven urban search-and-rescue teams.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) said it also has activated its Response Coordination Center and deployed two incident management assistance teams to Florida. FEMA said it is also working with Georgia and South Carolina, where flooding is also expected.

The Florida Division of Emergency Management said Monday the State Emergency Operations Center is activated to a Level 1 to respond to the storm.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
A Texas law that prevents health care providers from administering gender-affirming care to transgender minors will take effect as planned this week after the state attorney generals office filed to appeal a judges temporary injunction.

Texas District Judge Maria Cantu Hexsel on Friday temporarily halted the states ban on gender-affirming health care for minors, writing in a decision that Senate Bill 14 infringes upon the Texas Constitutions guarantees of equality under the law by enacting a discriminatory and categorical prohibition on evidence-based medical treatments for transgender youth.

In response, the attorney generals office filed an appeal with the Texas Supreme Court, automatically pausing Cantu Hexsels injunction and allowing the law to take effect Sept. 1. The attorney generals office said in a Friday statement gender-affirming treatments, including puberty blockers, hormones and surgeries, are experimental and unproven and emphatically pushed by some activists in the medical and psychiatric professions.

Gender-affirming health care for transgender minors and adults is considered safe, effective and medically necessary by every major medical association. The American Medical Association during an annual meeting in June adopted a resolution that formally opposes any and all penalties against individuals seeking gender-affirming care, as well as their families and providers.

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Medical decisions should be made by patients, their relatives and health care providers, not politicians, the Endocrine Society, which introduced the resolution, wrote in a June news release.

Texass attorney generals office on Friday pushed back against the medical communitys support for gender-affirming health care, arguing there is a lack of evidence demonstrating medical benefit.

The OAG will continue to enforce the laws duly enacted by the Texas Legislature and uphold the values of the people of Texas by doing everything in its power to protect children from damaging gender transition interventions, the attorney generals office said Friday.

Fridays appeal makes Texas the fourth state to have its previously blocked gender-affirming health care ban reinstated. The 6th Circuit Court of Appeals last month accepted a request by Tennessees attorney general to lift an injunction issued by a lower court, becoming the first federal court to allow a ban on gender-affirming health care to take effect until a final ruling is made in the case against it.

The 6th Circuit last month also allowed Kentuckys ban to take effect. A panel on the 11th Circuit Court of Appeals last week lifted an injunction that had for more than a year prevented Alabama officials from enforcing a 2022 law that makes it a felony  punishable by up to 10 years in prison  for doctors to provide puberty blockers or hormone replacement therapy to transgender people younger than 19.

The preliminary injunction blocking the enforcement of Alabamas law will remain in effect, however, at least for the next two to three months, and possibly longer, the group representing the plaintiffs in Alabama said Monday.

Laws that heavily restrict or ban gender-affirming health care for transgender youths have been passed by 24 states since 2021, with a majority of bans enacted in the South.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Doug Evans, owner of Evans Landscaping, is facing contempt charges after failing to follow through with a court-ordered plan to clean up wasted illegally discarded on a property owned by his company, the Ohio Attorney General's Office said.

A Newtown business owner has been charged with contempt of court after failing to follow through with a court-ordered plan to clean up waste illegally dumped on a property owned by his company, according to the Ohio Attorney General's Office.

Doug Evans, who was convicted in a scheme to fraudulently secure minority business contracts, used Evans Landscaping and three other businesses to illegally discard waste and construction and demolition debris, potentially polluting the Little Miami River, at properties on Mount Carmel, Broadwell and Round Bottom roads, according to a 2021 lawsuit.

As part of a consent order approved by the court in September 2022, Evans agreed to correct the violations and clean up the properties in accordance with a plan authorized by the Ohio EPA and the Hamilton County Health District, officials said.

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He was also ordered to pay $550,000, with a quarter of that money going to the Little Miami Conservancy.

Investigators with Hamilton County Public Health observed violations of the waste removal plan during several visits this month to the Broadwell Road property, the attorney general's office said in a Monday court filing.

Excavation is underway at the Broadwell site, but Evans stopped removing debris and has left it lying on the ground, officials said, adding he also failed to submit mandatory progress reports.

Evans Landscaping says it intends to oppose the charges. In a statement, the company said it worked with Hamilton County Public Health and the Ohio EPA for months on a plan to remove debris from the Broadwell property, but the agencies refused to approve its proposed plan and imposed a plan that is "unworkable in the field."

Five proposed removal plans, all containing deficiencies, were submitted by Evans and his businesses before the agencies issued their own plan in June, the attorney general's office said.

The company also says agency representatives have improperly classified hardfill, such as concrete, asphalt, brick, block, tile and stone, as construction and demolition debris.

Compliance is not optional, Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost said in a statement. Doug Evans needs to clean up the community menace he created or face the consequences.

The attorney general's office is asking the court to impose a sentence of 30 days in jail and fines, the maximum penalty under state law. Officials say the charges are intended to ensure Evans meets the timeline of the removal plan, which could by completed by the end of the year.

"Evans Landscaping was attempting to resolve these disputes through good faith negotiations when the state filed its contempt charges," the company's statement reads. "It is always Evans Landscapings intent to comply with all applicable environmental laws and regulations and address concerns from state and local environmental agencies responsibly."

Evans was convicted of multiple conspiracy and wire fraud charges in December 2018 and sentenced to 21 months in prison.

After a failed appeal and a request to the court to further delay the execution of his sentence due to fears he might die from COVID-19 in prison, Evans reported to federal prison in June 2021.

According to the Federal Bureau of Prisons, he was transferred to a Cincinnati residential reentry management field office later that year. Those under the care of these offices are typically in residential programs or placed on home confinement.

This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Evans Landscaping owner charged with contempt over waste cleanup plan
Once again, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is requesting more information from Tesla regarding the safety of Autopilot.

In a special order dated July 26, the regulator shared concerns about a change to Tesla's advanced driver assistance system that allows drivers to use the system for extended periods of time without prompting the driver to place their hands on the steering wheel.

NHTSA ordered Tesla to answer questions and produce documents, according to the letter released Tuesday.

The special order is part of NHTSA's ongoing investigations into Autopilot after identifying more than a dozen crashes in which Tesla vehicles hit parked emergency vehicles. The agency is also actively looking into whether Teslas can make sure drivers are paying attention when using Autopilot.

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This isn't the first time NHTSA has requested information about Tesla's driver monitoring systems (DMS), which are meant to ensure drivers are paying attention to the road while automated driving systems are engaged. In August 2022, the agency asked Tesla to answer questions about its cabin camera as part of an ongoing probe into 830,000 Teslas that include Autopilot. Tesla says the camera is built with a DMS that can determine if a driver isn't paying attention and send them noise alerts.

Tesla previously relied on a system that could detect when a driver's hands were on the steering wheel, but introduced the camera-based DMS in May 2021.

NHTSA asked for more information about the DMS in July, as well as information on how Tesla generates its quarterly safety reports.

"The resulting relaxation of controls designed to ensure that the driver remained engaged in the dynamic driving task could lead to greater driver inattention and failure of the driver to properly supervise Autopilot," reads NHTSA's July letter to Tesla.

Tesla CEO Elon Musk has shared plans on X -- the social media platform formerly known as Twitter that Musk bought in 2022 -- to gradually reduce alerts aimed at ensuring drivers using Tesla's "Full Self-Driving" (FSD) system keep their hands on the wheel.

Tesla has been ordered to provide information on when the software update was introduced, how many vehicles were affected, Tesla's reason for installing it and any plans to enable the software in the next year. NHTSA gave Tesla a due date of August 25, and late responses can cost $26,315 per day. NHTSA did not respond in time to TechCrunch to confirm that Tesla met its deadline.

The order from NHTSA comes as Tesla faces back-to-back lawsuits this fall. The first, scheduled for September in a California state court, contains allegations that Autopilot caused a vehicle to suddenly veer off a highway at 65 miles per hour, hit a tree and burst into flames, killing the owner of the vehicle.

The second is set for October, and concerns the death of a Miami driver whose Model 3 drove under the trailer of a truck that had pulled onto the road, slicing off the top of the car's roof and killing the driver. The lawsuit alleges that Autopilot failed to brake, steer or act in any way to avoid the crash.
Mr Brownlee, now 88, was employed at the school from 1964 to 1995 - Craig Brown / Stockimo / Alamy Stock Photo

A deputy head teacher at broadcaster Nicky Campbell s former school is facing charges in connection with alleged historical offences against boys.

John Brownlee, 88, taught at Edinburgh Academy for more than 30 years, but in April a number of his former pupils accused him of physical abuse.

BBC radio presenter Mr Campbell, 62, is among those to have alleged that Mr Brownlee acted violently towards his students.

A Crown Office prosecutor has now informed Mr Brownlees accusers that a date for a hearing at Edinburgh sheriff court on October 17 has been set, The Times reports.

A source told the paper: He has not been arrested but has been served with an indictment.

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A Police Scotland spokesman said on Tuesday: An 88-year-old man is the subject of a report to the Procurator Fiscal for alleged non-recent abuse incidents at Edinburgh Academy.

A Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service spokesperson said: The complainers will continue to be updated on significant developments in this case.

To protect the integrity of any potential proceedings, Scotlands prosecution service will not comment publicly at this time.

Mr Campbell previously told the hearing as part of the Scottish Child Abuse Inquiry he was sexually abused by another teacher - Jane Barlow/PA Wire

Edinburgh Academy is currently at the centre of a hearing as part of the Scottish Child Abuse Inquiry.

Mr Brownlees time at the school was mentioned during the hearing by Mr Campbell while giving evidence.

The private school has previously offered an unreserved apology to all those who suffered abuse in the past but has not commented specifically on the allegations against Mr Brownlee.

Mr Brownlee was employed at the school from 1964 to 1995 and for many years was the deputy headmaster as well as a housemaster with responsibility for the welfare of boarders.

A pen portrait was published in the school magazine, which said colleagues could occasionally find his sense of humour to be disconcerting.

Mr Campbell previously told the inquiry he was sexually abused by another teacher while he was a pupil at Edinburgh Academy.

After giving evidence of his own abuse to the inquiry, Mr Campbell became emotional as he told journalists outside the hearing: Its as if someone at last has told the grown-ups about what happened to us when we were little.

Mr Campbell who was adopted by a very loving family as a baby, told the inquiry he was sent to the fee-paying school because his parents wanted the best for me.

Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month, then enjoy 1 year for just $9 with our US-exclusive offer.
China's globally shared wisdom in sand control a microcosm of ecological civilization construction: former Polish president

10:43, August 29, 2023 By Lin Xiaoyi and Yu Jiayin ( Global Times

A view of the first expressway crossing the Kubuqi Desert in Hanggin Banner, Ordos City, in North China's Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region. Photo: Xinhua

"I am delighted to once again visit the Inner Mongolia, and witness a group of intelligent people in an intelligent nation utilizing high technology to develop their economy in the desert."

The Ninth Kubuqi International Desert Forum (KIDF) was held from August 25 to 27, in Ordos, North China's Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region. Bronislaw Komorowski, the former president of Poland who was invited to attend the forum, shared his impressions about the event during an exclusive interview with the Global Times recently.

After listening to domestic and foreign experts' views on China's desertification control measures and experiences at the forum, and conducting field investigations to some ecological photovoltaic sand control areas, Komorowski pointed out that the experience of desert control in Kubuqi is a microcosm of China's ecological civilization construction.

"What impressed me is the increasing greening area of the Kubuqi Desert and the modern technology being applied in energy production. It can be seen that the Chinese government is attaching more importance to the issues of ecological environment protection and sustainable development, which is in line with global environmental protection efforts," he said.

As an important participant in the China-proposed Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), Komorowski noted that Poland has also actively carried out a green transformation in recent years. The former president said he admired China's continued assistance to other countries' development of ecological and green economies, and that he also saw vast opportunities for cooperation between China and Poland which benefit from the exchange of experiences in ecological environmental protection and the development of green energy.

Former Polish President Bronislaw Komorowski during an exclusive interview with the Global Times. Photo: Yu Jiayin/GT

Green miracle in desert

"China's sole emphasis now is no longer fighting desertification, but combines desert control with industrial development to achieve the common development of ecology, industry, and society, which brings new development opportunities to the people in desert areas," said Komorowski, noting that the theme of this year's forum, "Science and Technology Leads Desert Control, Making Deserts Benefit Mankind," aroused his interest and is highly recognized.

Kubuqi Desert is the seventh-largest desert in China, forming a huge yellow sand belt toward the north of the Ordos Plateau, only 800 kilometers away from Beijing. The Kubuqi Desert was once known as "the sea of death."

When the People's Republic of China was founded, the Kubuqi Desert advanced dozens of meters toward the shore of the Yellow River every year. After dozens of years of painstaking management, a third of the 14,100-square-kilometer Kubuqi Desert is now covered with green vegetation. China's Ministry of Science and Technology has conducted a remote analysis of desert changes over the last 20 years, proving that vegetation cover in the core treatment area of the Kubuqi Desert has reached 65 percent, an increase of more than 30 percent compared with that of 10 years ago.

Komorowski, who participated in the 6th Kubuqi International Desert Forum in 2017, considers himself as a witness to the changes in the Kubuqi Desert.

"What happened in Kubuqi Desert is a typical case of using technology to combat desertification and benefit the people. We can see that under the premise of effective governance and strict protection, China has adopted a market-oriented and industrialized approach, effectively integrating desert prevention and control with local economic development, while increasing the income of local people," he said.

Komorowski also expressed his interest in China's use of technology to develop new energy as an important means of desert control. For example, the Elion Resources Group (Elion)'s Kubuqi Desert Control and Yellow River Protection Project has practiced the ecological photovoltaic desert control and protection system. The company has seized the strategic opportunity of China's carbon emission peak and carbon neutrality goals, investing in the construction of a 3.2GW three-dimensional photovoltaic desert control project in Kubuqi Desert, with an annual power generation capacity of 5.5 billion kilowatt-hours.

At the same time, Elion has built a green ecological agriculture system, planting grass, crops, and medicinal herbs under the photovoltaic panels in 150,000-mu solar farm, while also developing eco-tourism. So far, it has lifted 102,000 people out of poverty in the desert area, leading to accelerated rural revitalization.

"The Chinese government has led enterprises and society to continuously explore technological innovations for desertification, making more people realize that as long as it is used reasonably, the desert can become an opportunity and a valuable resource and source of wealth," he said.

Vast space for cooperation

Technicians install photovoltaic sand control project power generation panels in the Kubuqi Desert, on July 22, 2023. Photo: Xinhua

The KIDF is currently the world's only large-scale international forum on desertification control, and has now become an important platform for exchanges on global responses to desertification challenges.

Each country has different ideas and interests, so the international community has some cooperative differences and difficulties in dealing with desertification, which makes it invaluable to carry out dialogues on international cooperation.

Through the forum, more exchanges will be made to find common points of convergence in the interest of many parties, Komorowski said.

Land desertification is a serious challenge facing the whole world. According to United Nations statistics, desertified land area accounts for a quarter of the earth's land surface area, affects a fifth of the world's population, and expands at a rate of 50,000-70,000 square kilometers per year, causing economic losses of up to $42 billion annually.

While over the last decade, China complete the task of sand control and prevention in 282 million mu (18.8 million hectares) of land, reducing the area of sandy land by more than 64.9 million mu, contributing to 25 percent of the world's green increment.

"The increase in forest cover on every inch of China's land is not only a benefit to China, but to human society as a whole," Komorowski said, noting that China, with its vast territory and globally leading economic development, has responded to the trend of the times, consciously assumed the responsibility of a great nation, and demonstrated its ambition to lead the cooperation and development of ecological environmental protection on a global scale.

Komorowski noted that although Poland does not have a desert, it is also active in the area of green transition as a key participant in the BRI. "Poland used to be one of the largest coal producers in Europe and one of the major coal importers. With global energy transition acceleration, Poland is also vigorously laying out the development of new energy, solar, and wind power industries. During the post-epidemic era, the European Union has invested heavily in the new energy industry."

Both China and Poland are facing the important task of deep energy transformation and the development of a green energy economy, and there is a vast space for cooperation in the field of new energy, he stressed.

This year marks the 10th anniversary of China's proposal of building a global community of a shared future and the BRI. China actively promotes international dialogue, alignment between international cooperation on the BRI, and the implementation of the 2030 Agenda.

"China's model of desert management and its achievements in the field of developing new energy have been highly appreciated by the international community. At the same time, China has continued to help other countries develop their ecological and green economies," Komorowski said. "It is believed that more and more countries will benefit from the exchange of experience in this field in the future."

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun)
We all could use a laugh right now.

Nico Santos has brought his brilliant comedic time to a slew of hit projects throughout the years including Superstore, Crazy Rich Asians, and more.

With both writers and actors in Hollywood currently on strike, most film and television sets are super quiet at the moment. As a result, celebs like Santos are getting creative with the extra free time on their hands.

Santos is returning back to the stage to headline a standup show this Thursday at Irvine Improv.

"My background is in stand-up comedy. I've been fortunate that I have been a working actor for the past seven, eight years, which is not an easy goal to achieve in this town. Now that some free time has opened up, let me get back on the stage and exercise these demons," Santos tells PRIDE.

Fans old and new can certainly expect plenty of hilarious jokes during Santos' set, but don't expect him to rely on his popular characters seen on TV.

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"It's really about getting more personal on stage. If people only know me from what they've seen on television, then please come to a show where you can get to know me as a person. People come to see me expecting a certain persona because they only know me from the characters I've played."

Plus, the actor won't be holding back when it comes to naughty humor designed for adults to enjoy.

"[People] come to the show and they're like... 'Was he really talking about blowjobs and rimjobs?' Please don't bring your 12 or 13 year old to the show. Who I play on television is not who I am in real life! I'm going to talk about my real life on stage. I'm sorry you brought your daughter or son to my show. They just have to learn about the birds and the bees from me I guess."

Tickets to see Nico Santos at Irvine Improv this Thursday can be purchased here. To see the full interview, check out the video below.

Nico Santos Returns to His Stand-Up Comedy Roots youtu.be
Is it time for Republicans to take Nikki Haley seriously?

According to a new Emerson College Polling survey, Haley saw the largest increase in support among Republican candidates, jumping 5 points from 2 percent to 7 percent following last weeks debate.

Nikki Haleys support increased from about 2 percent to 9 percent among voters over 50 [years of age], said Spencer Kimball, executive director of Emerson College Polling, while Trumps support dropped within this age group from about 56 percent to 49 percent after the debate.

Republican Debaters Agreed on One Thing: They Hate Vivek Ramaswamy

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This jump is modest, inasmuch as it still leaves Haley in the single digits. But its also no outlier. According to a poll conducted by The Washington Post, FiveThirtyEight, and Ipsos released last Thursday, voters were persuaded to at least give her a second look. Pre-debate, 29 percent of GOP primary voters who watched the debate said they were considering voting for her, according to the survey, and that increased to 46 percent after the debate.

So how did she do it? Haley caught our attention by being first to hit Trump (from the right), when she criticized him for adding eight trillion to our debt. This surprised everyone, demonstrated courage, and put to rest the notion that she is merely running to be Trumps vice president.

Haley also staked out a strong position on abortion. While stressing her pro-life beliefs, she made the pragmatic case that a federal abortion ban would require 60 votes. Instead, Haley urged Republicans to focus on consensus issues, like banning late-term abortions, making sure contraception is widely available, and supporting adoption as an alternative.

Trumps former veep, Mike Pence , who supports a 15-week federal ban on abortion, took umbrage with this. Nikki, youre my friend, but consensus is the opposite of leadership, Pence scolded. (As the Never Trump conservative writer Jonah Goldberg has pointed out on his podcast, building consensus is often a key attribute of leadership.)

The Republican Debate Was a Futile Pudding Wrestling Match

This exchange, like others during that same debate, made it clear that in a general election Nikki Haley would likely be Joe Biden s most challenging opponent.

Having served as governor of South Carolina and ambassador to the United Nations, she has the experience needed for the office. She also has sharp elbows. (You have no foreign policy experience and it shows, she told Vivek Ramaswamy.)

At 51, Haley would present a stark contrast in terms of generational change, assuming that Joe Biden was still the Democratic nominee. And (unlike others) she is not staking out an abortion position that might render her effectively unelectable, should she become the Republican nominee.

Haley (who frequently cites Margaret Thatchers line, If you want something said, ask a man. If you want something done, ask a woman) was the only woman on that stage. Her identity, temperament, and policy positions could help chip away at the gender gap that has only grown in recent years.

The obvious caveat here is that all of these things would make Haley a great candidate to beat Joe Biden if she somehow wins the Republican nomination. But thats an awfully big if.

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: GOP Debate Showed How Not to Pick a President

Haleys answer to this is to make the electability argument: We have to face the fact that Trump is the most disliked politician in America, sheand she, aloneaverred during last weeks debate.

But will that dog hunt?

Right now, the electability argument isnt persuading Republicans to jump off the Trump bandwagon, even though that argument is likely the only one that could ever work. At some point (perhaps after Donald Trump goes on trial and its too late), Republicans might be convinced that, as entertaining as Trump is, he simply cant win.

Based on all of this, you might expect me to suggest that its time to clear the fieldto rally every freedom conservative, Reagan Republican, and Never Trump conservative to coalesce around Haley as the GOPs last, best hope.

Some of my colleagues are already there. The New York Times columnist David Brooks, for example, declared last week that Wednesdays debate persuaded me that the best Trump alternative is not [Tim] Scott, its Nikki Haley.

But heres my problem. Haley has been all over the map for years now. One day shes courageous and impressive, and the next day shes a pathetic Trump toady.

Haley is a political chameleon, which makes me reluctant to ever trust her again.

Trump and Ramaswamy Show Us How the Worst Get to the Top

On the other hand, anyone looking for purity (as it pertains to Trump) can also dismiss Pence and Chris Christieboth of whom supported Trump until Jan. 6and a vast swath of todays leading Never Trumpers. As the Good Book says, Who then can be saved?

Nikki Haleys got a long way to go before she clears the not-Trump lane of candidates, much less taking on the final boss himself. And though nothing has yet made a dent in Trumps domination of the GOP voter base, hes never run as a candidate on trial before. But the whole 91-felony indictment thing might just do the trick.

If Haley can prove herself by stringing together two or three of these kinds of courageous performancesin which she not only characterizes Trump as the guy who already lost to Biden, but also that shes as real a conservative as any of the other contendersthere is a path to success.

Its hardly guaranteed, and as Ive noted, courage comes and goes with Haley. But in the Matt Lewis primary, you can count me among the 46 percent who are now considering voting for her.

Read more at The Daily Beast.

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The claim: Judge Aileen Cannon dismissed herself from Trump s documents case

An Aug. 23 Facebook post (direct link, archive link) claims the judge assigned to former President Donald Trump's classified documents case in Florida has quit.

"Aileen Cannon Trump's hand-picked crony judge Officially dismissed herself from Trump's case on classified documents (sic)," reads the post.

A similar version of the post claiming she was ordered to disqualify herself from the case was shared more than 200 times in less than a week before it was deleted.

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Our rating: False

Court documents show Cannon is still the judge in the case and making decisions about it. There is no credible evidence to suggest she removed herself from the case.

Cannon remains listed as presiding judge

Trump was charged in Florida in June with dozens of federal crimes related to his mishandling of classified documents he took with him after leaving the White House in 2021. Cannon, a Trump-nominated U.S. district judge, was assigned in June to preside over the case.

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But contrary to the post, there is no evidence to suggest she recused herself. Days after the Facebook post was shared, Cannon was still listed as the presiding judge on an Aug. 25 court document related to the case.

Fact check: No, photo does not show Judge Aileen Cannon

The deleted post appears to distort analysis from former federal prosecutor Glenn Kirschner, who said she could be asked to recuse herself if she continues to make rulings he described as questionable, Newsweek reported Aug. 20.

The process of removing her would start with a motion from the Department of Justice and special counsel Jack Smith asking for her recusal, Dave Aronberg, the state attorney in Palm Beach County, Florida, told USA TODAY.

That motion would then appear among the documents filed in the case online. There is no such motion on that list of documents, and there have been no reputable reports that one has been filed.

Its rare for a judge to be forced from a case, Jonathan Turley, a professor of public interest law at George Washington University, told USA TODAY in an email.

Even when a case is reversed in its entirety or a judge makes an error in constitutional law, he said, it is usually sent back to that judge after appeal.

Its not enough that youre appointed by the litigant in front of you, or that you make rulings that are not consistent with the law that gets you overturned, Aronberg said. You have got to show more.

Aronberg said Smith would have to show that Cannon displayed pervasive bias and pointed out a clause that requires self-disqualification if a judges impartiality might reasonably be questioned.

Its got to be so extreme as to display clear inability to render fair judgment, he said. So were talking about really high burdens here to show.

USA TODAY previously debunked a false claim that Cannon had been fired.

USA TODAY reached out to Angela Noble, the court administrator for the clerk of court for the Southern District of Florida, for comment but did not immediately receive a response. Cannon did not immediately return a phone call placed by USA TODAY to her chambers.

USA TODAY also reached out to the social media user who shared the post but did not immediately receive a response.

Our fact-check sources:

Thank you for supporting our journalism. You can subscribe to our print edition, ad-free app or e-newspaper here.

Our fact-check work is supported in part by a grant from Facebook.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: No evidence judge recused herself in Trump documents case | Fact check
After months of intense lobbying, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is ebullient about the upcoming transfer of Dutch, Norwegian and Danish F-16 fighter jets to the Ukrainian air force.

In many ways, the US-made F-16 is the ideal platform for the Ukrainians. Its multi-role: it can provide air cover for troops, attack ground targets, take on enemy planes and intercept missiles. And its available: European air forces have plenty of F-16s and are phasing them out. There is a ready supply of spare parts; and the F-16 can operate with a variety of weapons systems.

The need is critical: Russian air superiority, especially on the southern front, has stymied the progress of the Ukrainian counteroffensive and inflicted heavy casualties on Ukrainian units. With the right armament, F-16s could deter Russian fighter-bombers from approaching the battlefield.

An F-16 fighter jet belonging to the Netherlands' Air Force. - Piroschka van de Wouw/Reuters

But just when the F-16s will fly combat missions is at the mercy of many variables  training programs which are only now getting underway, getting support infrastructure in place, the type of weaponry deployed. Theres a delicate balance between the urgent need to get the F-16 into Ukrainian colors and the thorough preparations required to make the most of the aircraft.

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Then theres the question of how many F-16s would make a difference on the battlefield. Denmark, the Netherlands and Norway have committed to providing Ukraine with more than 60 jets, but some will have to be used for training and there will be a maintenance cycle.

Col. Yurii Ihnat, Ukraines air force spokesman, believes that two squadrons, each of 12 planes, would begin to turn the tables.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy and Denmark's Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen pictured sitting in an F-16. - Mads Claus Rasmussen/Ritzau Scanpix/Reuters

But the F-16 has never gone up against Russian air defenses in the real world. Its critical to establish the best possible role for it.

The idea of F-16s flying over the front lines and breaking the stalemate is just not viable - its just too dangerous, said Mark Cancian, a senior adviser at the Center for Strategic and International Studies. Russian air defenses are very formidable.

Rapid training

Training programs are getting underway for the first batches of Ukrainian pilots  in Denmark, Romania and the United States. (Greece has also offered to train pilots.) These will take longer than the three or four months suggested in some quarters for pilots who have no experience flying Western combat planes.

First, there is a big difference between basic training (take-off, fly, land) and operating in combat mode as one of a group of planes in range of well-entrenched Russian air defenses.

One F-16 pilot told the online military publication War Zone that the plane is intuitive. You turn it on, you push the throttle up, you go and fly.

But to learn how to fight with it, to learn how to use missiles, we will take around six months, Ihnat acknowledged.

An F-16 pictured in the Netherlands. - Piroschka van de Wouw/Reuters

Ukrainian Defense Minister Oleksii Reznikov has said that six to seven months is the minimal period that should be seriously taken into account.

Even that timetable is ambitious. Western pilots graduating from other planes require about nine months to gain full proficiency  and that doesnt include training for specific combat scenarios. Also, the cockpit layout of an F-16 is a whole lot different from that in a MiG-29  the Soviet-era jet commonly flown by Ukrainian fighter pilots.

Add to that, pilots would require English-language proficiency. Ihnat says about 30 Ukrainian air force pilots have adequate English, the absolute minimum required to stand up two squadrons.

There would be the additional task of learning how to operate Western weapons such as Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missiles (AMRAAMs) capable of taking out Russian combat planes at distance. On the upside, Ukrainian pilots have adapted fast to using Western High-speed Anti-Radiation Missiles (HARM) on their MiG-29s.

According to Cancian, at the CSIS, The problem is that they have to transition to an aircraft that has a bunch of systems they havent seen before, plus theres a whole approach to air warfare that the US and NATO use that the Soviets did not.

Heavy maintenance

As effective as it is, the F-16 demands much more maintenance than the average Soviet-era fighter, and that would be as challenging for the Ukrainians as flying the platform.

Cancian told CNN that F-16s need 16 hours of maintenance per flight hour. At a cost of nearly $27,000 per flight hour, it is also expensive to fly.

There are tens of thousands of parts on an F-16, Cancian said, and that pipeline has to go into Ukraine, so when the plane lands and you taxi it into the hangar and you have to go fix something, the part is on hand.

Netherlands' Air Force F-16s. - Piroschka van de Wouw/Reuters

A report by the US General Accounting Office last year ranked the F-16 as one of the most difficult US Air Force planes to maintain: it had not met its mission goals in any of the previous 10 years.

US officials have been cautious about both the impact that the F-16s will have in Ukraine and the scale of training involved.

Gen. James B. Hecker, commander of US Air Forces Europe, says that the plane wont be in Ukraine until next year. But he told a media call this month that its not going to be the silver bullet, [that] all of a sudden theyre going to start taking down SA-21s [Russian surface-to-air missiles] because they have an F-16.

Hecker said real proficiency on sufficient numbers of the aircraft could be four or five years down the road.

US Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall echoed that assessment, saying the F-16 will give Ukrainians an increment of capabilities that they dont have right now. But its not going to be a dramatic game-changer.

Motivated force

The Ukrainians see one of the chief advantages of the F-16 as its potential to deter the Russians most potent combat jet, the Su-35, whose delivery of guided bombs has taken a toll on Ukrainian ground forces.

Ukrainian Air Force commander Mykola Oleshchuk said last week that success against the Su-35 would force the Russians to take it out of range, allowing the counteroffensive to gather speed.

The Ukrainians have of course persistently surprised Western militaries with their mastery of long-range artillery, air defense systems and tanks supplied by NATO nations.

Kendall said recently: I dont think Ive ever seen more motivated individuals, in terms of wanting to get into the fight and make a difference.

But motivation must extend beyond the pilots to a long tail of engineers and technicians.

The Biden administration has been extraordinarily careful not to involve US service members or contractors in the war effort in Ukraine, so its unlikely that US technicians will be on the ground.

Instead, the teleconference maintenance system that has helped the Ukrainians fix so many of their Western systems will be a critical link.

The Ukrainian Air Force has long been working on improving and protecting airfields that would accommodate the F-16s.

The Russians have made a priority of targeting Patriot air-defense complexes, without much joy. F-16 fighter jets would present a much more tempting - and valuable  target, through cruise missile attacks against airfields and surface-to-air missiles and other weapons in the air.

If the Russians enjoy some success, said Cancian, the Ukrainians and their allies would see a bad narrative unfold.

People recognize that you lose equipment, but if you lose it very quickly, very visibly, then people get discouraged, said Cancian.

The last publicly acknowledged loss of an F-16 in combat was an Israeli plane downed by Syrian air defenses (provided by Russia) in February 2018.

Ukrainian pilots, flying an unfamiliar aircraft in more heavily defended airspace, will face a much greater threat from more advanced Russian air defenses, including the S-400, Russias newest and most capable surface-to-air missile system.

Ultimately, such valuable equipment cant be hurried into combat. Even if the first F-16s fly their first combat missions next spring, a lot may have changed on the ground by then.

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NOGALES  The Arizona Court of Appeals granted a stay on Tuesday in the murder trial of the Nogales-area rancher accused of shooting and killing a Mexican citizen in January.

Judge Thomas Fink vacated the original Sept. 6 trial start date for George Alan Kelly after hearing about the decision to stay the case. The trial was postponed to Sept. 26.

Kelly, 75, is accused of shooting Gabriel Cuen Buitimea, 48, as he ran for his life on Kellys nearly 170-acre Kino Springs property. Kelly is facing one count each of second-degree murder and aggravated assault.

The court obviously will respect the stay, Fink said. Im sure theres absolutely no possibility that the matter will be resolved before next Wednesday when jury selection is set to begin.

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The appeals hearing was only 30 minutes before Tuesday's scheduled hearing in the case at Santa Cruz County Superior Court in Nogales. The clerk of the court called the appeals court to confirm the decision shortly before Tuesdays hearing began.

We just learned just before we came to court, said Kimberly Hunley, Santa Cruz County chief deputy attorney.

Prosecutors had requested a continuance in the trial because of the late disclosure of a handful of experts by the defense. Prosecutors alleged that the late disclosure was a bad faith last-second sandbagging.

George Alan Kelly (center) listens to his attorney Brenna Larkin (left) during his preliminary hearing on Feb. 22, 2023, in Nogales.

Hunley previously argued that the state needed more time to vet, interview and brief expert witnesses brought forward by the defense. The defense subsequently said that they would not be calling the experts to testify in trial and only retain them in a consulting capacity.

During a previous hearing, Fink denied the states motion to continue the trial and told prosecutors that they could ask the Court of Appeals for a stay in the case, which they eventually did.

George Alan Kelly enters Courtroom Three for his preliminary hearing on Feb. 22, 2023, in Nogales.

Fink denied Hunley's request on Tuesday to set a hearing to argue the handful of remaining pretrial motions before the delayed trial begins.

Tuesdays now-vacated hearing was originally set to review the results of juror questionnaires and to hear arguments in remaining motions. The 100 jurors summoned for the jury selection process will be excused.

Contact the reporter at josecastaneda@arizonarepublic.com or connect with him on X, formerly known as Twitter, @joseicastaneda.

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Murder trial delayed for rancher accused of killing Mexican citizen
FILE - A Norfolk Southern freight train rolls through downtown Pittsburgh, on March 26, 2018. Regulators say Norfolk Southern has made improvements since a fiery Ohio derailment but still falls well short of being the gold standard for safety it is striving to be. The Federal Railroad Administration released a report on the railroads safety culture Wednesday, Aug. 9, 2023. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar, File)

OMAHA, Neb. (AP)  Norfolk Southern railroad is recovering from a hardware-related technology outage that disrupted train traffic across its network in the Eastern United States Monday, but there may be lingering effects for at least a couple of weeks.

The railroad said there is no indication that the outage was related to any cybersecurity incident. But spokesman Connor Spielmaker said Tuesday morning that we're continuing our investigation into the root cause of these issues.

All system functionality was restored by 7 p.m. Eastern on Monday, the company said, and it is bringing the rail network back online.

Norfolk Southern has been in contact with its customers and is working Tuesday to get shipments where they need to be. The railroad is one of the biggest in North America with nearly 20,000 miles of track across 22 eastern states. Businesses of all kinds rely on Norfolk Southern to deliver the raw materials and goods they need while helping get their finished products to their destinations.

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Norfolk Southern Corp., based in Atlanta, is in the crosshairs of federal regulators after a derailment in Ohio earlier this year led to a fiery, toxic chemical spill.

In a 143-page report this month, the Federal Railroad Administration said that Norfolk Southern has made some improvements, but is nowhere near the gold standard for safety its CEO is striving for. The railroad is too often only willing to meet minimum safety requirements, regulators said.

The agency has promised to conduct similar safety culture reviews at all the major freight railroads, including CSX, Union Pacific, BNSF, Canadian National and Canadian Pacific Kansas City, but it hasnt set a timeline for those reviews.

Congress and regulators have called for all the major freight railroads to make a number of changes to improve safety but proposed legislation has stalled in the Senate and failed to get started in the Republican-controlled House.
North Carolina and Georgia have each declared a state of emergency ahead of potential impacts from Hurricane Idalia, which is expected to slam into Floridas Gulf Coast Wednesday.

North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper (D) declared the emergency Monday to activate the emergency operations plan in the state, waive transportation rules to aid the transport of necessities and assist the agriculture industry, a press release from his office stated.

We are continuing to monitor Idalias course and its potential impacts on our state and its critical to make sure we are fully prepared, Cooper said in a statement. It is important for North Carolinians to gather emergency kits and prepare for the storm before its too late. We also want to make sure our farmers are able to protect their crops.

Idalia strengthened to a hurricane Tuesday morning, and the National Hurricane Center is predicting that it will likely become a Category 3 hurricane before it hits Florida. Forecasters are warning that the storm is expected to become an extremely dangerous major hurricane before making landfall Wednesday, and it could bring life-threatening storm surges, dangerous flooding and hurricane-force winds to the state.

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Forecasters at the Hurricane Center said the storm will begin to head northward toward the Carolinas by Thursday.

North Carolina officials warned in the press release that the state could see several hazards, including flooding, Wednesday and Thursday. They also urged residents to prepare for the storm, including by heeding warnings, gathering emergency supplies and avoiding driving through flooded roadways.

We are working together with our local jurisdictions to ensure we have necessary resources staged to support emergency response needs, North Carolina Emergency Management Director Will Ray said in a statement. We are grateful for the partnership to protect our communities, the 10.6 million North Carolinians, and visitors.

Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp (R) issued a state of emergency Tuesday afternoon in preparation for the storm. The press release stated that the state could see 40 to 50 mph wind gusts, noting that those counties under a Hurricane Warning could see wind gusts up to 80 mph.

We are taking every precaution ahead of Hurricane Idalias landfall tomorrow, and I am taking this additional executive action to ensure state assets are ready to respond Kemp said in a statement. Georgians in the expected impact area can and should take necessary steps to ensure their safety and that of their families. We are well positioned to respond to whatever Idalia may bring.

Tornadoes and heavy rainfall are also possible with this storm, Kemps office said. The Georgia coast could see a 2 to 3 foot storm surge on Wednesday, according to the release.

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis (R) also declared a state of emergency ahead of the storm in his state, where many counties are facing mandatory evacuations due to the potential for severe flooding and dangerous storm surges.

 Updated 2:31 p.m.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
North Carolina is home to the best high school in the nation, a new report finds.

The Early College at Guilford in Greensboro ranks No. 1 on a list of public schools that boast top-notch test scores and excel in preparing students for college, according to results published Tuesday, Aug. 29.

To create the list, U.S. News & World Report said it studied thousands of high schools across the country. It used data from the federal government and other sources as it focused on six categories: college readiness, college curriculum breadth, graduation rates, outcomes for underserved students, and performance and proficiency on state tests.

In all, nearly 18,000 U.S. schools were ranked based on metrics from the 2020-21 school year, when COVID-19 forced many students to learn virtually, The Charlotte Observer and the The News & Observer reported.

How did the NC school rank No. 1?

The Early College at Guilford was the only high school in North Carolina to rank among the nations top 10. Though it landed at No. 35 last year, reading proficiency and Advanced Placement classes helped the school make its mark in 2023, according to results published online and shared with McClatchy News via email.

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The Greensboro school is part of Guilford County Schools, a district that serves children in pre-K to 12th grade. The school has a partnership with Guilford College, giving high schoolers the chance to earn up to two years of credit from the four-year liberal arts institution, officials said.

The curriculum is writing intensive, and students in the ninth and 10th grade take honors and Advanced Placement courses, U.S. News wrote on its website. Students in 11th and 12th grade take college courses with undergraduates taught by college professors, including organic chemistry, linear algebra, modern art, health economics and more.

So, how did other schools in North Carolina fare? In addition to the national rankings, U.S. News shared a separate statewide list. The other schools that followed The Early College at Guilford in the top five:

STEM Early College at N.C. A&T in Greensboro at No. 2

Onslow Early College High School in Jacksonville at No. 3

Wake STEM Early College High School in Cary at No. 4

Raleigh Charter High School at No. 5

Two NC cities rank among best places to live in Southeast. What makes them special?

Best hospitals in North Carolina? These are top places to receive care, report finds
The Town of Carrboro will unveil a Truth Plaque next month at the front of the historical Strayhorn House at 109 Jones Ferry Road.

A North Carolina town will honor one of the first Black families to settle in the area in the late 1800s.

The Town of Carrboro will unveil a Truth Plaque next month at the front of the historical Strayhorn House at 109 Jones Ferry Road, The Daily Tar Heel reports. Toney and Nellie Strayhorn, formerly enslaved people, built the one-room log cabin in 1879 on 30 acres of land.

Screenshot of Nelly Strayhorn in 1879. (Credit: Ernest Dollar / YouTube)

Dolores Clark, Strayhorns great-granddaughter, now owns the renovated home. She also serves on the Truth Plaque Task Force, while her granddaughter, Nevaeh Hodge, is a local advocate who works with the North Carolina NAACP.

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The Truth Plaque unveiling will be held at the Strayhorn House on Friday, Sept. 1, at 6 p.m., and open to the public. According to The Local Reporter, the text on the plaque will read, Enslaved in Orange County, Toney and Nellie Strayhorn were one of the first Black families to settle in Carrboro. After purchasing 30 acres of land, they built a one-room log cabin in 1879, which has been added to over the years. This home is a historic landmark and a testament to their faith, resilience, and determination to persevere.

According to The Daily Tar Heel, as many as six generations lived in the Strayhorn home, including Clark, who spent her childhood there and later returned to care for her aging relatives.

The Strayhorn plaque will be the third in the Truth Plaque program that started in 2018 to acknowledge the towns ties to white supremacist and North Carolina State Legislator Julian Carr. The former Freedman School was also honored with a plaque in 2021, The Daily Tar Heel reports.

According to the Town of Carrboro, truth plaques aim to educate citizens about the truth of the towns history.

The point is to tell some kind of truth about history, Terri Buckner, co-chair of the task force, said, per The Daily Tar Heel. And the truth for the Strayhorn House is that they were an amazing family. They helped to build Carrboro.

A grant from Preservation Chapel Hill and support from Habitat for Humanity made it possible to repair the Strayhorn House and bring its deteriorating foundation and aging HVAC system up to town codes.

If you look at the historical preservation of homes, what you find are its the wealthy homes that are preserved, the ones that have the beautiful architecture and fine woodwork and all of that, Buckner said. But thats not Carrboro  Carrboro is a working-class town, and so this is a vernacular home. It tells the truth of the working people who helped build Carrboro.

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The post North Carolina town to honor first Black residents with plaque appeared first on TheGrio.
By Soo-hyang Choi

SEOUL (Reuters) -The United States, South Korea and Japan staged joint naval missile defence drills off the Korean peninsula on Tuesday, as North Korea denounced the "gang bosses" of Washington and its allies for increasing the risk of nuclear war.

The three nations staged exercises in international waters off South Korea's southern Jeju island to improve their ability to detect and track targets, and share information in the event of provocation by Pyongyang, South Korea's military said.

The drills come as North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has called for "radically" modernising the weapons and equipment of his country's naval forces, criticising an increased presence of U.S. strategic assets in the region.

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In a speech to mark Navy Day, Kim said the "gang bosses" of the United States, Japan and South Korea announced regular joint military exercises, news agency KCNA reported, apparently referring to their Aug. 18 summit at Camp David, Maryland.

"Owing to the reckless confrontational moves of the U.S. and other hostile forces, the waters off the Korean Peninsula have been reduced to the world's biggest war hardware concentration spot, the most unstable waters with the danger of a nuclear war," Kim was quoted by KCNA as saying.

In the first standalone meeting between the leaders of the U.S., South Korea and Japan, the three agreed to deepen military and economic cooperation as they seek to project unity in the face of China's growing power and the North's nuclear threats.

Japan said the sharing of information on ballistic missiles was part of the drills on Tuesday.

"The exercises will strongly facilitate trilateral cooperation and demonstrate the commitment of Japan, the United States, and the Republic of Korea to protect a free and open international order based on the rule of law," Japan's defence ministry said in a statement.

South Korea and the United States last week began the Ulchi Freedom Shield summer exercises, designed to enhance their joint responses to North Korea's nuclear and missile threats. Pyongyang has long denounced the drills as a rehearsal for war.

As part of the exercises, the allies' special operations troops practised infiltrating an enemy's coastline from the sea, riding rubber boats and emerging from the waves with diving gear and guns.

(Reporting by Soo-hyang Choi in SEOUL, additional reporting by Kantaro Komiya and Chang-Ran Kim in TOKYO; Editing by Grant McCool, Michael Perry and Nick Macfie)
During comments for the North Korea's Navy Day, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un (C) told his nation's navy to be prepared for an invasion. File Photo by KCNA/UPI

Aug. 29 (UPI) -- North Korean leader Kim Jong Un on Tuesday called on his military to prepare for a "more frantic" invasion by U.S.-allied nations.

The North Korean dictator delivered the warning in a speech commemorating North Korea's Navy Day at the nation's naval headquarters.

Official North Korean media reports that Kim said the Navy needed to be modernized "in view of the enemies' recent aggressive attempts and character of military actions."

Kim said the United States is "getting more frantic than ever," and that the Navy should "fully arm the officers and men of the units and sub-units at all levels with our Party's Juche-oriented naval and underwater war methods and focus on developing new strategic and tactical plans for getting familiar with ever-changing patterns of naval warfare," according to official state media.

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Kim's comments come as the United States, South Korea and Japan hold trilateral military drills in the Sea of Japan.

The U.S. Navy's Arleigh Burke-class destroyer Benfold joined Japan's JS Haguro and the Republic of Korea's Yulgok Yi I for exercises simulating the interception of ballistic missiles.

All three vessels are equipped with the Aegis Ballistic Missile Defense System, which is designed to detect and intercept ballistic missiles in the skies and is also equipped with a system to allow the interceptor to navigate in the vacuum of space.

Kim also reportedly raised the specter of nuclear war in his speech.

"Owing to the reckless confrontational moves of the U.S. and other hostile forces, the waters off the Korean Pennisula have been reduced into the world's biggest war hardware concentration spot, the most unstable waters with the danger of a nuclear war," the North Korean leader said.

The famously guarded North Korean leader appeared with his daughter for the event.

U.S. officials took a muted tone on Kim's comments.

When asked by a reporter about Kim's reference to nuclear war, White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said, "I just don't have anything to say specifically about these comments."

"We just conducted a trilateral exercise that followed the historic Camp David summit. It brought together even closer the leaders the United States, Japan, and the ROK," Jean-Pierre said.
Fall River, 1890s: A vicious killer has axe in hand and murder in mind. The blade cuts the air as it swings in its deadly arc, embedding in a human head  then its withdrawn, pulled back, and swung down hard again, and again, and again, many whacks leaving the victim a gruesome mess.

Everyone knows the Lizzie Borden murders, but this is not that case. This is the murder of Bertha Manchester, who was slaughtered on May 30, 1893, only months after the Bordens were killed  and its the subject of a new true-crime book available now by author William D. Spencer: The Other Fall River Tragedy: The Murder of Bertha Manchester.

The Manchester case rocked Fall River at the time, but is little remembered these days. But while the crime is superficially similar, the details prove startlingly different, a case that involves immigration and social class  and it may have affected the Borden trial.

Dead letter office: Lizzie Borden letter delivered 126 years later  to the Fall River Historical Society

William D. Spencer is the author of two books on the Lizzie Borden case and now "The Other Fall River Tragedy: The Murder of Bertha Manchester," a little-remembered true crime slaying from 1893.

Still reeling from Lizzie Borden, another axe murder rocks Fall River

The Borden case will forever be a mystery, but we know exactly who held the axe and killed Bertha Manchester: Jose Correa de Mello, 19, a Portuguese immigrant from Arrifes, Sao Miguel, just outside Ponta Delgada in the Azores.

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Spencers book tells the story of both de Mello and the Manchester family, who owned a dairy farm on what is today Meridian Street near Joseph Drive, close to Wilson Road.

[De Mello] didnt speak any English at all, said author, local historian and expert in the Borden case Stefani Koorey. He worked for Stephen Manchester off and on.

Fall River true crime: Historical Society's new book could have Lizzie Borden fans rethinking theories

On what was then known as Decoration Day, now Memorial Day, Stephen Manchester, his son and a farmhand made the four-mile trek into town to sell milk, leaving behind 22-year-old Bertha to run the house. Thinking the farmhouse was empty, and believing Manchester owed him some money for work hed done on the farm, de Mello broke into the home and ransacked it, looking for cash and valuables.

Bertha heard the intruder. She was well-built and feisty, Spencer writes, "the kind who would likely put up a fight if challenged  and used an axe to attack de Mello twice. But he overpowered her and they struggled over the weapon, knocking out several of her teeth.

According to his defense attorney, Spencer writes, Mad passion' came over him and, once able to wrest the axe from Bertha, he repeatedly hit her in the head with it until she was dead. Then he fled the scene.

This image printed in the Fall River Daily Globe on June 1, 1893, depicts the crime scene where Bertha Manchester was found slain.

How the Manchester killing 'complicated' the Lizzie Borden trial

Spencers book thoroughly details the investigation into the brutal killing, which took place just before Lizzie Borden headed to trial.

So now the police have another axe murder on their hands thats five days before the jury gets sequestered in the Borden trial," Koorey said. So are they going to think that theres a serial killer out there, and that Lizzie didnt do it? It complicated things.

Indeed, in the Borden case, some had suspected the killer might be a Portuguese laborer that sometimes worked on the Bordens Swansea farm.

This illustration from the Fall River Daily Herald of 1894 depicts Jose Correa de Mello, also known as Jose Correiro, an immigrant from the Azores who killed Bertha Manchester in 1893.

The book touches on bigotry and classism that may have been at play in the police investigation that makes the case far different from the Borden killings. The police treated the Bordens with the gentility befitting their upper-middle-class status. Meanwhile, Stephen Manchester was forced to sleep in his barn for days while his house was locked down as a crime scene; as a non-English-speaking immigrant, de Mello was denied a lawyer and subjected to lengthy interrogations where, Spencer writes, a confession was psychologically beaten out of him.

They tricked his uncle into bringing him to the police station to turn himself in because they thought it was just for stealing, Koorey said. Because thats what they told him.

What Fall River is famous for: Here's why the infamous legend of Lizzie Borden will never die

A new look at an old crime

Spencers true-crime book explores how Portuguese immigrants rallied around de Mello, compared to how Lizzie was shunned by her peer community. "The Other Fall River Tragedy is the first book to take on the Manchester case, and contains rarely seen images and transcripts from legal hearings.

Spencer has also written two books about the Borden case: Lizzie Borden Uncut: A Casebook of Theories, and The Case Against Lizzie Borden.

His books, independently published by North Forest Press, are available in print and digitally on Amazon.

Dan Medeiros can be reached at dmedeiros@heraldnews.com. Support local journalism by purchasing a digital or print subscription to The Herald News today.

This article originally appeared on The Herald News: True crime book: Fall River axe murder may have affected Borden trial
Sunday's fatal shooting at Easton Town Center illustrates the challenge of preventing gunfire at shopping centers, which has been on the rise for several years.

The shooting, allegedly by a 13-year-old, occurred despite widespread security, a prohibition against guns at the center, and a mall policy requiring those under 16 to be accompanied by an adult.

Shooting: What we know about the Easton Town Center shooting

"Because it's an open environment and people are invited to come in, it's very difficult to control when someone brings something in a concealed manner," said David Levenberg, owner of Center Security Services, a Florida-based security firm that specializes in retail security.

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Easton's shooting marks the third summer in a row of gunfire in a Columbus shopping center, and the latest in a string of such shootings throughout the nation.

An Easton security vehicle sites outside the Levi's store at Easton Town Center Monday morning after a victim who is believed to be a teenage boy was shot and killed at Easton Sunday night. Two 13-year-old have been arrested in connection with the shooting.

Retail establishments are the second-most-common sites of mass shootings, behind workplaces, according to the Violence Project database. Between 1966 and 2000, 29 mass shootings took place in U.S. retail sites. Nine of them occurred between 2016 and 2020, including a 2019 shooting at a Walmart in El Paso, Texas, that left 23 people dead.

Since then, several more shootings have occurred in shopping centers, including a shooting at a Texas mall in May that left nine people dead, and a shooting last month at a Lansing, Michigan, shopping center that left two dead and five wounded.

More: Mall shootings rare, and most calls at three largest Columbus malls are unrelated to crime

Columbus hasn't been immune. Last summer, one person was fatally shot at the Mall at Tuttle Crossing and the summer before, gunfire erupted twice in two weeks at Polaris Fashion Place, though no one was injured in either shooting.

Levenberg said shopping center operators are increasingly worried about violence overall and gunfire in particular.

"It definitely is a rising concern," he said. "Its not always been like this ... In the past, shoplifters might run or try to fight, but they typically wouldnt pull out a weapon; thats different. The retail environment is experiencing an escalating frequency of firearms and injuries to their own employees."

In a survey last year, 58% of respondents to a National Retail Federation survey said they are increasingly concerned over "mass violence/active assailants" while 53% said gun violence is a growing concern.

Levenberg noted that there's no magic solution but said some of the new measures shopping center operators are taking include gun-sniffing dogs; facial-recognition cameras; and parental escort policies, which Easton has had since 2020.

Shopping centers also must balance customer safety with what is acceptable to customers.

"If you look at gun detectors, for example, the industrys torn," Levenberg said. "This is an effective tool but from a customer standpoint, that's not feasible at this point."

Facial recognition technology can also be effective, but raises privacy concerns among customers, he said.

In a statement issued Monday, Easton said the shopping center is constantly reviewing and adjusting its security procedures.

"With more than 25 million customer visits a year, Easton prides itself on being a safe place for the community. Our commitment to security is unwavering and significant resources are devoted to ensuring safety. Easton Town Center maintains significant property-wide state-of-the-art electronic video surveillance including hundreds of cameras and 200 Guest Call for Assistance stations throughout the property. ...

"Eastons Public Safety Officers monitor safety on foot, by car and by bicycle and are always present. Easton employs special duty Columbus Police Officers as part of our extended team in addition to the regular duty Columbus Police personnel assigned to our area seven days a week."

Actual shootings at Easton are fairly rare. In 2019 a man sought help at an Easton store after being shot in a domestic dispute. In 2017 a woman was shot while in Victoria's Secret PINK store at Easton.

Jason Marshman, 19, said he was visiting AMC Easton to see Blue Beetle with a friend for National Cinema Day when Sunday's shooting occurred. The pair were shopping at the malls Barnes & Noble before their 7 p.m. movie when, around 6:30 p.m., they saw commotion outside.

Marshman said he saw a crowd of no less than 50 teens running away from the mall. My friend thought it might be a fire but we both knew it was a shooting.

Marshman also indicated that the shrieks of a mother and a little boy running from the mall confirmed for him that the commotion must be the result of a shooting and not a fire.

"I don't know how to (describe) it but the way she cried I knew someone was hurt or dead, it wasn't like she escaped a burning mall, it was like she witnessed something," Marshman said.

Marshman and his friend ran toward Easton Commons Apartments and kept running down Easton Way before getting picked up at Easton Loop minutes after. He said he later heard the incident arose from a fight between the suspected shooters and the victim.

Eddie Harris of Gahanna was also at the movies with his daughters when the shooting occurred. Security guards evacuated the theater, which was orderly, but as customers exited Easton's main building, "it became chaotic, absolutely chaotic," he said.

Harris, who has a background in law enforcement, said the incident will change the way his family, especially his 15-year-old daughter, shops.

"For us, because we still have control over our youngest one, she and her friends would walk about the mall with us nearby, thats going to stop," he said. "Who wants to risk that sort of activity? Were not doing that anymore, its not worth it."

Monday morning at Easton saw light traffic, not surprising for early in the day. Shoppers were already carrying bags filled with purchases, and young children were having photos taken in front of the giraffe outside the Legoland Discovery Center store. A security vehicle sat near the Levi's store on the mall south side.

Scott Neff, executive operating partner at Fado Irish Pub and Restaurant, said he has fewer safety concerns at Easton than he does at other locations in Atlanta and Chicago and Philadelphia, where he said his head's on a swivel when he visits Philadelphia's two Center City locations.

He said he's happy with Easton security and Columbus police. As for fallout from Sunday's shooting, he said: "Do I think it will affect consumer behavior some? It depends what the news has."

At Easton's Town Square, Richard and Carolyn Harris of Reynoldsburg were sitting near the fountain waiting for friends to join them for lunch at the Cheesecake Factory.

They had not heard about Sunday's shooting. They wondered how it would affect visitor traffic.

"People don't go when they don't feel safe," said Mr. Harris, 71. He recalled incidents at Columbus City Center, the former Downtown mall. In May 1994, a teen was killed there in what was described as a gang-related shooting.

"It started the downward spiral for sure," Mr. Harris said.

Mrs. Harris said they used to visit City Center during Christmas season. But they stopped. "It wasn't worth it," she said.

Nearby, Ohio State student Megan Graeler was writing on her laptop. She said violence has been happening everywhere in the country. "If I were to think about it more often, if I did, I feel I'd be holed up in my apartment all the time," said Graeler, a 20-year-old junior who lives near campus.

Melanie Ryan, 43, of Pickerington, went to Hollister and American Eagle to find a shirt. She says she feels comfortable at Easton during the day. But not at night.

Tim Bishop, 64, of Dublin, said he and his friends used to go the AMC movies many Sunday nights for about 10 years. But he said they stopped going a year ago for safety reasons. The only reason he was there Monday was because he was making a delivery to a store.

Jimmy Diorio, 68, of North Linden, said he often visits Easton. He said he feels safe when there are large numbers of visitors. He doesn't think there's enough security on weekends.

Cody Ballard, 36, of New Albany, said he visits Easton Town Center four or five times a week, and feel safe there. "Anything can happen anywhere," he said.

But Cody Ballard, 36, of New Albany, said he feels safe there. He said he visits four or five times a week.

"Anything can happen anywhere," he said.

Dispatch reporter Grace Tucker contributed to this report.

mferench@dispatch.com

@MarkFerenchik

jweiker@dispatch.com

@JimWeiker

This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Some shoppers won't return after Easton shooting, others feel safe
MINNEAPOLIS -- The 60th anniversary of the March on Washington is sparking memories from Minnesotans who made the trek to the nation's capitol to fight for civil rights.

Dr. Josie Johnson, 92, was part of that Minnesota group. Her seven decades of fighting for voting, housing, education, and employment rights in the Land of 10,000 Lakes is legendary. WCCO's Reg Chapman sat down with the civil rights icon as she reflected on this historic moment.

Johnson says the diverse group of Minnesotans who made the trip to Washington D.C. in 1963 were committed to driving change.

"It meant that we were a part of what we considered a historical movement, so it was of great sense. Think of that; nothing had been done like that before," she said.

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More than 250,000 descended on the Mall in Washington D.C. to fight for civil and economic rights of African Americans. It was the largest event of its kind in our country's history, representing a bigger movement.

"The thought that we were reaching out to the world and that people were going to join us in our great district of Washington ... talk about feeling the love and commitment of freedom," Johnson said.

Johnson had already spent years working on fair housing and other legislative activity in Minnesota, and representing in D.C. helped fuel the work.

"Many people didn't even know Minnesota or the struggle for justice and equality here, so it was an opportunity for us to join that national group of people expressing the need for justice and equal opportunity," she said.

It was one of the first times people witnessed unity among various civil rights groups. And on that day in August 1963, Minnesotans joined them in the march for freedom.

"When you are there you are no longer this small group from a state. Very few people know you," Johnson said. "I can remember that morning so well."

She hopes revisiting this important time in American history will encourage the next generation to continue the fight.

Johnson's accomplishments include work through the Minneapolis Urban League, the League of Women Voters, and the Junior Service League. Her book, "Hope in the Struggle," details her story and advice on how to keep fighting for justice.

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NEW YORK -- The NYPD is investigating the deaths of a family of four on the Upper West Side.

Police said a man and a woman, ages 41 and 40, along with their children, ages 3 and 1, were found stabbed to death inside their apartment at 328 W. 86th St., following a wellness check on Monday afternoon.

CBS New York spoke to heartbroken and perplexed residents. The father who died grew up in the building. He was the superintendent and his father was the super before him.

Residents described him as a doting family man and it seems nobody can imagine what went wrong.

A historic co-op was the scene of what investigators believe to be a gruesome murder-suicide.

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"A lot of tears and a lot of gasping," Jeff Kimmel said.

"Everybody is freaking out," Lynne Allen added.

Police were called to the building off Riverside Drive at around 3 p.m. by the father of the building's super. Sources told CBS New York he was trying to get a hold of his 41-year-old son.

The super's dad knocked at his one-bedroom apartment, and when no one answered he looked into the peephole and saw his son's 40-year-old wife bleeding on the floor.

Police arrived to find the couple, along with their 3- and 1-year-old sons dead. Each had been stabbed.

"They were adorable. They were babies," Allen said.

Investigators found kitchen knives at the scene and saw no signs of a break-in.

"He's like a really decent human being. He's like a nice guy. So I have no idea what could've possibly happened," Kimmel said.

Residents said the super moved into the building when he was just 10 years old, when his father was the super.

"I've known him since he was a little boy and used to play stick ball with the kid who is now the nighttime super in the corner building," neighbor Philip Caggiano said.

Caggiano said he has bumped in to him the other day.

"And I thought how great to live on this street with this happy family. This is heartbreaking, just heartbreaking," Caggiano said.

The young family was getting ready to move to Westchester County, where the father had just accepted another job as a super.

"Because he's outgrown a one-bedroom apartment with his family of four and we all were so happy for him, just thrilled he got this upgrade and lifestyle change and everyone was really happy," Allen said.

Investigators spent hours trying to figure out exactly what happened, while neighbors racked their brains to figure out why.

"This isn't what you expect in this building, in this gorgeous neighborhood, in this very quiet building," Allen said.

Residents said the super's last day was supposed to be at the end of this month, but the family was planning to stay in the building until they moved into their new apartment in Westchester in a few weeks.

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An Oakland public elementary school was evacuated Tuesday morning after a bomb threat with racial undertones was emailed to the principal.

Just days earlier, the school had drawn scorn from a right-wing social media account.

Anthony Chabot Elementary School, a campus with a little more than 500 students in kindergarten through fifth grades, was evacuated by Oakland police around 8:30 a.m., shortly after the department was made aware of a threat.

School had not yet started, which meant there were roughly 30 students along with faculty and staff on campus, according to Oakland police Capt. Lisa Ausmus.

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The students have been safely reunited with their parents, Ausmus said at a news conference.

Ausmus said school employees were evacuated after the threat "to a safe area, where they waited until they could be cleared to return to campus. The campus was cleared around noon, according to police.

There were 50 total people evacuated, according to Oakland police spokesperson Rosalia Lopez.

Read more: Bomb threat prompts evacuation at Aliso Niguel High School but proves to be 'unfounded'

The Alameda County Sheriffs K-9 bomb-sniffing team was at the school earlier in the day searching for explosives, according to Ausmus. No information on what might have been found was provided.

The Alameda County Sheriffs Office did not immediately respond to questions.

Ausmus did not elaborate on what the email sent to the schools principal said, only that there were some racial undertones. She added that the FBI was investigating as well.

Additional off-campus sites were named as targets. Ausmus said there were bomb threats aimed at "residences," adding that the homes were not those of students or parents.

Lopez said there were three total locations targeted.

Read more: Feds say Oklahoma man threatened repeatedly to bomb, shoot students at L.A. schools

Libs of TikTok, defined by the Anti-Defamation League as  a popular anti-LGBTQ+ twitter account,  posted on Monday about the schools Playdate Social held the previous Saturday.

The event was advertised as open to Black, Brown and API families," according to a flier. That notice drew the ire of the accounts handlers, who posted that the social was race segregated" and was not for "the white kids.

The account also posted a comment from an alleged brown parent that read, Im genuinely upset about what ultimately boils down to a no whites allowed playdate. How is this productive?

The post garnered more than 1.3 million views as of Tuesday afternoon. Libs of TikTok has a history of amplifying and framing social media posts by LGBTQ+ creators, particularly for right-wing scorn.

A Reddit post about the event entitled Black, Brown, Asian Playdate created on Sunday was deleted, though a comment thread with a few hundred responses remained.

As of Tuesday, Chabot Elementary's website was not functioning.

Oakland Mayor Sheng Tao tweeted she was outraged that our children, educators and neighbors have been targeted by malicious threats. My office is in contact with Oakland Unified School District and Oakland Police as we seek answers. We are monitoring the situation closely.

Sign up for Essential California, your daily guide to news, views and life in the Golden State.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
A member of the Oregon Department of Transportation Underwater Inspection Team assesses the Yaquina Bay Bridge in Newport. The dive team inspects 1,141 bridges and culverts in the state on a varying cycle between one and five years depending on the condition of the bridge and its susceptibility to erosion.

The Oregon Department of Transportation has a dive team responsible for more than 1,100 bridges and culverts across Oregon.

Routine and regular inspections take up most of its time, although it does get pulled away for emergency inspections, like last month when the Willamette Queen got into a slow-speed collision with the Center Street Bridge.

A man untied the 87-foot-long sternwheeler from the Riverfront Park dock in the early morning of Aug. 14, and it struck one of the bridge's piers. The incident triggered a Level 2 inspection by ODOTs Underwater Inspection Team, which arrived within hours to determine whether the heavily used bridge was safe for vehicles.

Michael Goff, ODOT's senior bridge and tunnel inspector and a member of the dive team, said the agency has three bridge inspection levels of response based on the severity of an event.

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Level 1 inspections happen at the maintenance level, with ODOT making an initial assessment.

The Center Street bridge over the Willamette River.

In the case of the Willamette Queen incident, Goff said the District 3 bridge maintenance supervisor responded but could not fully evaluate any impact damage below the water.

Level 2 inspections, made at the request of the bridge owner, are performed by certified bridge inspectors or licensed engineers. The Center Street Bridge is one of two state highway bridges spanning the Willamette River in Salem. It carries eastbound traffic from West Salem and Highway 22 into downtown.

The state dispatched the Underwater Inspection Team to perform an emergency Level 2 inspection of the pier the boat hit, one of the bridge's three main piers in the river channel.

Findings: Reddish-colored paint scuffs and a scrape of algae

The Center Street Bridge is 2,218 feet long and has 25 concrete piers that support steel deck girders, including an abutment at each end.

The Willamette Queen floated north upriver when it was untied and nestled against the pier. The slow current prevented the boat from being slammed into it. Rescue Boat 5 of Salem Fire Department's towed the sternwheeler back to the dock. Salem Police arrested the man who allegedly untied it.

Within hours, the dive team arrived to inspect the pier. Approaching by boat, it found barely visible reddish-colored paint scuffs. The Willamette Queen is painted white with red trim.

Goff did the underwater inspection. He said the dive took just 10-15 minutes. He found no structural damage, only an area where a bit of algae had been scraped off.

"The bridge sustained zero damage," he said.

The Oregon Department of Transportation Underwater Inspection Team, known as the dive team, photographed in 2021 at Foster Lake in Sweet Home.

No further action was required this time. But if needed, Goff said, a Level 3 inspection could have been performed by an engineering expert for a specific bridge type, material or defect. The expert would then make recommendations for bridge closure or repair.

The bridge coincidentally was due to be inspected the week after the incident. Due to time constraints, the team investigated the "damage" the day of the incident and then returned the following week to complete the full underwater inspection of both the Center and Marion Street bridges, which are done every two years.

Dive team responsible for more than 1,100 bridges

ODOT's Underwater Inspection Team, known simply as the dive team within the agency, has nine members.

Rick Shorb, the team leader, and Jason Ottosen, the underwater sounding coordinator, are full-time members. The other seven, including Goff, are part-time divers and full-time ODOT employees who do other jobs.

Some of the state's first official underwater bridge inspections took place in the 1960s, during construction of the Astoria-Megler Bridge and following the 1964 floods. The state initiated its Bridge Inspection Program in 1971 to comply with new federal standards.

The dive team performs scheduled inspections all year, although much of its work is seasonal. The summer and fall are busy times.

"As winter comes and conditions worsen, we scale it down and don't dive as much," Goff said, noting poor weather, high water levels, swift water and low visibility are conditions that can impede inspections.

The team inspects both state and local agency bridges. Oregon currently has 7,022 bridges that qualify for the National Bridge Inventory, a database compiled by the Federal Highway Administration and including any bridge at least 20-feet long and used for vehicular traffic.

Marion County has 355 bridges in the inventory. Polk County has 159.

But only 1,114 bridges and culverts fall under the dive team's responsibility and are inspected on a varying cycle between one and five years, depending on the condition of the bridge foundations and their susceptibility to erosion.

Goff said the bridges that don't qualify either span a waterway without piers in the water, have waterways shallow enough to wade into, or are over dry land or roadways.

Center Street Bridge in line for seismic improvements

Center Street Bridge, which carries 45,000 to 50,000 vehicles a day, is the fourth bridge at this location. Salem's first bridge lasted only four years, built in 1886 and washed out by floodwaters. A replacement was used for nearly three decades until being condemned by the highway department in 1918.

The third Center Street Bridge opened that same year and carried two-way traffic until the westbound Marion Street Bridge opened in the 1950s. The Center Street Bridge was at that time designated for eastbound traffic.

The current Center Street Bridge with four lanes was constructed in the 1980s and is in line for seismic retrofit improvements scheduled to begin in 2025, according to an ODOT project report.

Capi Lynn is a senior reporter for the Statesman Journal. Send comments, questions and tips to her at clynn@statesmanjournal.com or 503-399-6710.

This article originally appeared on Salem Statesman Journal: Salem's Center Street Bridge inspected after boat hits pier
Your slice of the headlines in Ukraine. Daily. Tuesday, August 29, 2023.

 Ukraine chastises Pope Francis for Russian imperial apologia speech

In his recent speech, Pope Francis has extolled the supposed virtues of Russias imperial past, Ukrainian Foreign Ministry spokesman Oleg Nikolenko said in a Facebook post on Aug. 28.





 No need for new mobilization wave yet  defense minister

The Ukrainian military currently has no need of further waves of general mobilization in the country, Ukrainian Defense Minister Oleksii Reznikov said during a press briefing on Aug. 28.





 Three potential causes for deadly Zhytomyr air disaster being investigated, says SBI

The State Bureau of Investigation (SBI) is thoroughly investigating the cause of a deadly crash involving two L-39 training aircraft in Zhytomyr Oblast that led to the deaths of three pilots, according to SBI spokeswoman Tetiana Sapyan on Aug. 28.





 Erdogans delicate balancing act

What do Ankara's steps toward Kyiv mean, and is Turkey ready to relinquish its "special relationship" with Moscow?  Gaber





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 Zelenskyy proposes single business inspection body to meet IMF, EC standards

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has called for the creation of a single body for business inspections as this would meet the requirements of Ukraine's international partners, he said in an interview on August 27.





 Russias missile attacks will differ from fall 2022, says Ukraines military intelligence

The Russian military is studying Ukraine's energy facilities and air defense systems to determine its fall bombing campaign tactics, according to Ukrainian military intelligence (HUR) spokesperson Vadym Skibitsky, in an interview with RBC-Ukraine on August 28.





 Child evacuation mandated in two areas of Zaporizhzhya Oblast, says deputy PM

A mandatory evacuation of children will be carried out in two frontline districts of Zaporizhzhya Oblast, according to Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Reintegration of Temporarily Occupied Territories, Iryna Vereshchuk, on Aug. 28.





 Former anti-graft agency chief on Ukraines anti-corruption system  interview

The former head of the National Anti-Corruption Agency of Ukraine (NABU), Artem Sytnyk, explained in an interview with NV Radio on Aug. 24 how the anti-corruption system functions in Ukraine, what challenges it faces, and how much pressure is exerted on it by state authorities.





 Poland, Latvia, Lithuania may close borders with Belarus if critical incident occurs

Poland, Latvia, and Lithuania will completely close their borders with Belarus if a "critical incident" occurs, Polish Interior Minister Mariusz Kaminski said on Aug. 28.

 POW reveals lack of drinking water, logistics supplies, other issues in Russian army

A captured Russian soldier has described a number of issues currently plaguing Russian occupation forces, including a dire lack of food and drinking water, and little to no logistics, according to a video posted by the Ukrainian Armed Forces on Aug. 28.

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Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
Senior Justice Department officials on Tuesday revealed a major digital sting they carried out to quash malware cybercriminals have used for decades to launch ransomware attacks, break into corporate networks, and filch sensitive consumer data across the globe.

The operation, which they called unprecedented, involved FBI agents and law enforcement partners in six other countries  France, the United Kingdom, Germany, Netherlands, Romania and Latvia  slipping unnoticed onto the computer servers where criminals controlled the notorious QakBot malware. They issued commands to self-destruct it and then seized roughly $9 million worth of cryptocurrency from those behind the malware, United States Attorney Martin Estrada said Tuesday.

The campaign, which U.S. law enforcement planned over 18 months and then brought to a head over three furious days this weekend, amounts to the most significant technological and financial operation ever led by the DOJ against a botnet, Estrada said from a U.S. attorneys office in Los Angeles.

Botnets  short for robot networks  refer to vast webs of computers that are infected with a common piece of malicious software. Cybercriminals control the botnets via a hub-and-spoke-like web of computer servers, which can then issue commands to the infected machines, harnessing their combined computing power to stage cyber attacks, breach corporate networks or illicitly harvest data.

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The operators of botnets also tend to rent access to other cybercriminals via the dark-web, and QakBots enormous size made it the botnet of choice for cyber gangs throughout the world, Estrada said.

Over the course of the 18 month operation, U.S. and international law enforcement clandestinely gained access to the 52 servers controlling QakBot. That gave them a unique, behind-the-curtain look at how much damage the malware caused.

Cybercriminals infected 700,000 new victims with the malware over the past year alone, roughly 200,000 of which were in the U.S., according to U.S. law enforcement. They also used it to launch 40 different ransomware attacks, causing $58 million in damages.

You can imagine that the losses have been many millions throughout the life of QakBot, which has been active since 2008, said Estrada.

U.S. law enforcement did not announce any arrests on Tuesday. When asked who they believed to be responsible for the botnet, Estrada declined to say, citing the ongoing nature of the investigation.

U.S. officials have repeatedly warned that a large percentage of global cybercrime and ransomware activity comes from Russia. They accuse the Kremlin of turning a blind eye to digital crooks as long as they focus their activity abroad  a claim Russia denies. China also accounts for significant hacking activity within the United States, but authorities say a majority of it is state-sponsored. The Chinese government also denies sanctioning hacking efforts.

Given how long it has been operating and the financial nature of the crimes QakBot is associated with, it is likely that many cybercriminals from across the world have contributed to or rented services from the botnet.

The operation follows a string of recent digital takedown operations from the Justice Department, which has made a concerted push over the last three years to find new ways to stem a growing wave of cybercrime.

Because much computer crime occurs abroad, cybercriminals rarely face punishment, even if charged with a crime.

Donald Alway, the assistant director in charge of the FBIs Los Angeles field office, which spearheaded the case, said that the operation had dealt a major blow to cybercrime.

We believe that this will effectively put the QakBot criminal groups out of business, he said, and put an end to one of the most devastating cyber criminal tools in history.
Ohioans will vote on abortion access this November. Between now and then, voters will hear a lot about parental consent.

That's because the abortion rights issue's opponents are painting the constitutional amendment as an extreme measure that will erase a long-standing requirement that parents, guardians or courts give consent before a minor has an abortion. Proponents of the amendment say the measure wouldn't touch the parental consent requirement.

The ballot language itself has no explicit reference to parental consent.

One long-time reproductive rights advocate, Kellie Copeland, told the USA TODAY Network Ohio Bureau that Ohio will need to deal with parental consent, particularly for minors who are victims of incest or abuse.

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I do have concerns about what we can do for minors who are in those situations where they cannot safely involve their parents," said Copeland, executive director of Pro-Choice Ohio. "I think thats something really important, and something that we should work on.

What would abortion rights amendment do?

The new constitutional language would protect Ohioans right to make their own reproductive decisions, including obtaining an abortion. Abortion would be legal up until viability, which is when a fetus can survive outside the uterus. After that, a doctor could perform an abortion to save a pregnant patients life or health.

The Ohio Constitution would supersede state law, where most abortion policy is written.

Opponents of the measure say its too broad, effectively eradicating any restrictions on access to abortion  limits like parental consent.

Whether you agree or disagree with abortion, the number of weeks, nobody wants their parental consent to be taken away, said Mehek Cooke, a Columbus-based attorney and opponent of the abortion rights measure. I believe that Ohio is the battleground and test ground for the rest of the country on how were going to move forward on parental consent.

Proponents of the abortion rights measure have downplayed or denied any impact on parental consent. There is absolutely nothing in the amendment that mentions or supersedes Ohios parental consent laws, Dr. Lauren Beene, executive director of Ohio Physicians For Reproductive Rights, said in an April statement.

Copeland said most minors will talk with their parents about abortion. The ones who dont are often ones who cannot safely do that, and I am always concerned that those people can find a way to safely access care when they need to.

Children in abusive situations can ask a judge, rather than a parent, for approval to have an abortion. But Copeland said that option is "extremely difficult" for minors to access and most don't.

Cooke, who ran for the Ohio House as a Republican, said backers of Ohio Issue 1 see parents as an obstacle. "They'd rather cut parents out of the decision-making process and eliminate parental consent laws altogether," she said. "Issue 1 is far too radical for Ohio parents and must be voted down in November to protect parental rights."

What is happening in other states?

Voters in Michigan approved a reproductive rights measure last year. Now, abortion rights advocates are trying to eliminate the parental consent requirement. They wrote in the Detroit Free Press: "To remove the burdens placed on young people who need access to reproductive health care, we must repeal Michigans outdated parental consent law."

In Florida, a proposed abortion rights ballot measure explicitly says it would not change the Legislatures constitutional authority to require notification to a parent or guardian before a minor has an abortion.

When asked if advocates for the amendment had discussed spelling out in the language that parental consent would be protected, Copeland replied: Not really. You know we wanted to make sure that people who needed care could get it, and that was the clearest language to ensure that."

Copeland also said abortion opponents' focus on parents' rights is disingenuous after a Republican law banned most abortions in Ohio last year. That law, which prohibited doctors from performing abortions after cardiac activity is detected, is currently on hold.

Theyre the ones who are imposing things that interfere with parents being able to get care for their minor children, not us, Copeland said. I think theyre really trying to avoid responsibility for the way that their policies harmed people when they were in effect and the way that they would if this amendment doesnt pass.

Jessie Balmert is a reporter for the USA TODAY Network Ohio Bureau, which serves the Columbus Dispatch, Cincinnati Enquirer, Akron Beacon Journal and 18 other affiliated news organizations across Ohio.

Get more political analysis by listening to the Ohio Politics Explained podcast

This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Abortion rights backer concerned Ohio parental consent law doesn't work for abused kids
Reproductive rights advocates in Ohio are suing a state board for approving politicized, deceptive and incorrect language on a ballot measure asking voters to enshrine abortion rights in the state constitution.

The lawsuit from Ohioans United for Reproductive Rights accuses the Ohio Ballot Board of exploiting their authority in an attempt to undermine a measure they oppose. The lawsuit notes that multiple members of the board, which voted 3-2 to approve the ballot language, have made their opposition to the amendment very public.

The board refused to put the clear, simple 194-word text of the Amendment on the ballot and insisted on doing a rewrite, but the adopted language is longer (by word count) than the Amendment it purports to condense, the lawsuit states.

The text approved by the board uses language straight from the anti-abortion movements playbook. As Ohio state Rep. Elliot Forhan (D), a member of the board who opposed the rewritten language, noted at a hearing, the amendment uses the medically correct term, fetus, but the proposed language substitutes the phrase ... unborn child, which reflects a personal viewpoint.

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Medical professionals use the terms fetus and embryo, as unborn baby gives the false impression that the embryo or fetus could survive outside the womb, when in reality thats not possible until the end stages of a full-term pregnancy. Similar to politicians branding six-week abortion bans as heartbeat bills, the unborn baby language is designed to prey on peoples emotions and sway them against supporting reproductive rights.

Ohio Secretary of State Frank LaRose drafted the language that reproductive rights are now suing to change.

Ohio Secretary of State Frank LaRose drafted the language that reproductive rights are now suing to change.

The approved text also leaves out crucial information about the proposed amendment, the lawsuit states.

The Amendment would protect reproductive decisions, including five express categories of personal reproductive decisions: those to do with contraception, fertility treatment, continuing a pregnancy, miscarriage care, and abortion, the plaintiffs wrote. Yet the ballot language mentions only abortion, obscuring much of the Amendments scope.

The lawsuit asks the court to order the board to reconvene and either adopt the amendment language or language that properly and lawfully describes the amendment for the ballot.

The approved text was drafted by the boards chair, Ohio Secretary of State Frank LaRose, a Republican who has made his opposition to the amendment very clear. In an interview last week, he referred to it as a dangerous, anti-parent amendment. He and the other members of the board are also named in the lawsuit.

But recent polling shows Ohioans support enshrining the rights to abortion and other reproductive options in the state constitution. According to a July poll from the USA Today network and Suffolk University, the proposed amendment has the backing of 58% of likely voters.

Thats enough to pass the amendment when it goes to voters on Nov. 7, as a GOP-led effort to increase the approval threshold for constitutional amendments from 50% to 60% failed earlier this month.

Constitutional amendments protecting reproductive rights have prevailed in other states. Last fall, voters protected abortion access in the five states where it was on the ballot, including red states Kentucky and Montana, along with blue-leaning swing state Michigan.

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A group trying to eliminate qualified immunity, allowing citizens to sue police officers and other public employees who violate their constitutional rights, has repeatedly hit a brick wall.

A group trying to eliminate qualified immunity, allowing citizens to sue police officers and other public employees who violate their constitutional rights, has repeatedly hit a brick wall in Ohio.

The Ohio Coalition to End Qualified Immunity hasn't been able to clear the first hurdle to make the November 2024 ballot. For the third time, Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost , a Republican and former county prosecutor, rejected the group's summary of its proposed constitutional amendment. Yost rejected a predecessor's attempt three times, too.

Yost's role is to certify that the proposed summary of the amendment is a "fair and truthful representation" of what the measure would actually do. Ohio Coalition to End Qualified Immunity spokesman Kyle Pierce says Yost is nit-picking.

"The continued obstinacy from AG Yost's office suggests a lean towards obstructionism rather than genuine understanding," the Ohio Coalition to End Qualified Immunity wrote in a statement. "We remind the AG's office that the purpose of these processes is to further democratic participation, not hinder it."

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But Yost spokeswoman Bethany McCorkle said the group's mistakes, not any bias on Yost's part were to blame for their struggles.

"The attorney general has approved ballot language for multiple petitions with which he did not agree. The petitioners should consider hiring counsel that is familiar with this area of law to assist with drafting," McCorkle said. "In addition, if they feel there has been a legal error, they have a clear path for review at the Supreme Court of Ohio.

The group plans to revise its summary and try again in September. Advocates are considering whether to take the issue to the Ohio Supreme Court.

"That's something we're looking into as an idea of interest, but it's not something we've made any decision on," Pierce said.

What would the proposed amendment to end qualified immunity do?

Under the proposed amendment, Ohioans could sue police officers, prosecutors, prison guards, judges or other public employees for violating their constitutional rights. They could also sue the state, city or other government body that employed them. The employers would be responsible for any fines or financial penalties, Pierce said.

Under current law and judicial doctrine, these actions are protected by "qualified immunity," a legal concept that prevents government employees from being sued unless they violate "clearly established law," which is a high bar to clear.

Mike Weinman, director of government affairs for the Fraternal Order of Police of Ohio, says those protections are needed for officers to avoid financially devastating lawsuits for split-second decisions. "We dont want police officers to lose their houses," he said.

Weinman said the results can be deadly if officers overthink or delay a decision because of concerns about a future lawsuit.

The proposal would require the government employer, if they were found liable, to take steps to prevent a similar rights violation in the future. Firing the employee who violated someone's rights wouldn't prevent a lawsuit.

What problems did Yost find?

Yost cited several problems with the proposed language, including that the summary wasn't short enough and it could confuse people about which public employees could be sued.

"Upon review of the summary, we identified omissions and misstatements that, as a whole, would mislead a potential signer as to the actual scope and effect of the proposed amendment," Yost wrote in a letter explaining the summary's deficiencies.

Past summaries were rejected because they didn't explain how and where someone could sue, didn't make clear that terminating the employee isn't required and didn't state that Ohio employees could be sued as well.

Weinman said the summaries so far have been deceptive and have not explained the full scope of the constitutional amendment.

How did the measure get started?

Cynthia Brown has been fighting to end qualified immunity since Columbus police fatally shot her nephew, Kareem Ali Nadir Jones, on July 7, 2017. The two officers were not charged, and an internal review found they did not violate the department's use-of-force policy.

The idea received national attention after a Minneapolis police officer killed George Floyd. While the legal doctrine wasn't used as a defense in the lawsuit Floyd's family filed against Minneapolis, it sparked a debate about qualified immunity across the United States.

When Democrats controlled the U.S. House, they passed the George Floyd Justice In Policing Act, which would have ended qualified immunity for police officers. But it never cleared the divided Senate, where GOP Sen. Tim Scott, of South Carolina, called the qualified immunity a "poison pill" for the bill.

Several states, including Colorado and New Mexico, have passed laws allowing citizens to sue police in state court for constitutional violations. There is a national campaign to end qualified immunity in other states.

In Ohio, Democrats in the super-minority of the state's Legislature have proposed restrictions on qualified immunity, but they have seen little to no movement. That led Brown and others to push for a constitutional amendment instead.

Jessie Balmert is a reporter for the USA TODAY Network Ohio Bureau, which serves the Columbus Dispatch, Cincinnati Enquirer, Akron Beacon Journal and 18 other affiliated news organizations across Ohio.

This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Ohio proposal to end qualified immunity struggles to clear first step
The U.S. Department of Justice and a northeastern Oklahoma bank have announced a proposed agreement to settle claims that the bank discriminated in lending to Blacks and Hispanics in the Tulsa area.

Collinsville-based American Bank of Oklahoma used the illegal practice known as redlining in majority-Black and Hispanic neighborhoods in the Tulsa area, including the area of the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre, according to the Justice Department.

Redlining is an illegal practice in which lenders avoid providing credit to people because of their race, color or national origin.

Nationwide support pours in for wrongfully convicted man in Oklahoma

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The practice was used by the bank from 2017 through at least 2021, the Justice Department alleged.

The proposed consent agreement filed in federal court in Tulsa on Monday is pending court approval and calls for ABOK to provide $1.15 million in credit opportunities in neighborhoods of color in the Tulsa area.

This agreement will help expand investment in Black communities and communities of color in Tulsa and increase opportunities for homeownership and financial stability, Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the departments Civil Rights Division said in a statement.

Remedial provisions in the agreement will open up opportunities for building generational wealth while focusing on neighborhoods that bear the scars of the Tulsa Race Massacre, Clarke said.

ABOK denied the allegations but said in a statement that it agreed to the proposal to avoid the cost and distraction of lengthy litigation.

Bank chief executive Joe Landon said in a statement that ABOK, with branches in Collinsville, Ramona, Muskogee, Disney and Skiatook, is a small community bank with $383 million in assets and lamented that the Justice Department referenced the 1921 Race Massacre.

As Oklahomans, we carry a profound sense of sorrow for the tragic events of the Tulsa Race Massacre over a century ago, Landon said.

The 1921 massacre left hundreds of Black residents dead when an angry white mob descended on a 35-block area known as Greenwood, looting, killing and burning it to the ground. Beyond those killed, thousands more were left homeless and living in a hastily constructed internment camp.

Target responds to bomb threats at locations in OKC

The three known living survivors of the massacre are appealing a ruling that dismissed their lawsuit seeking reparations from the city and other defendants for the destruction of the once-thriving Black district.

Landon said the bank will expand its deposit and lending products and add mortgage and refinancing options in Tulsa and open a new loan production office in a historically Black area of the city.

The Justice Department said the bank will also provide at least two mortgage loan officers for majority-Black and Hispanic neighborhoods, and host at least six consumer financial education seminars annually with translation and interpretation services in Spanish.

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ABOK is also to hire a full-time director of community lending to oversee lending in neighborhoods of color in the Tulsa area.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KFOR.com Oklahoma City.
One of the two Battery Creek High School students who died in Jasper County has been identified as Jorge Lopez, 18, of Beaufort.

Lopez and another male student, a 16-year-old whose identity has not be released, were found dead on Etheridge Road, in Yemassee, Sunday. Both died from multiple gunshot injuries.

At around 5 p.m. Sunday, Lopez was driving the unidentified student and a female passenger, whose identity has also not been revealed, when shots were fired.

Lopez was taken to Coastal Carolina Hospital, but later died due to his injuries. The 16-year-old was pronounced dead at the scene. The female passenger was also taken to an unknown hospital with non-life-threatening injuries, the coroner said.

The two deaths are under investigation by the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division, which declined to comment further Monday afternoon. Its common for SLED to investigate larger crimes like this when they happen in smaller counties.
Two narratives emerged Monday about what happened to 2-year-old Faviola Rodriguez after prosecutors and defense attorneys presented opening arguments in the Baby Favi trial.

The first involves a man beating a toddler to death and waiting nearly an hour before calling for help. The second involves the same man responding to a freak accident before being railroaded into almost five years of prosecution.

But the first day of the trial also ended with questions about its future. After an afternoon of testimony, the judge excused one juror after she revealed a personal connection to the toddler's father. Two other jurors said they may be unable to continue because of other commitments. If the trial has less than 12 jurors, it can't continue.

3rd Judicial District Court Judge James Waylon Counts reads a statement out to the jury during the trial of Lalo Anthony Castrillo IV on Monday, August 28, 2023, at the 3rd Judicial District Court. Castrillo is accused of killing two-year-old Faviola Rodriguez.

"I guess we can all hold our breath and hope we don't lose anyone else," said Judge James Waylon Counts at the outset of day one.

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The trial is to determine whether Lalo Anthony Castrillo IV is guilty of intentional abuse of a child resulting in the death of Faviola Rodriguez. If convicted, Castrillo could face life in prison. It has been nearly five years since Baby Favi, as the community has come to know her, died on Sept. 5, 2018. But in that time, several factors led to a 51-month delay before the case could reach a jury.

Here's what you need to know about opening arguments and the jury.

One juror is out. Two more are in question

Before the trial began, Counts told defense attorney Jose Coronado and prosecutor Saul Guardiola about a few issues with the jury. First, Counts said a juror had a prior engagement that prevented him from participating after Friday. Coronado and Guardiola said they didn't anticipate that being an issue since the trial should conclude before then.

But the second juror issue required more thought. The juror told the court she would have difficulty finding a caretaker for her young child. She said she may have to bring the child to court. But after hearing about her situation, Guardiola and Coronado said they saw no reason the woman could not participate. It's unclear how this situation will affect Tuesday's proceedings.

3rd Judicial District Court Judge James Waylon Counts listens to the prosecutor's opening remarks during the trial of Lalo Anthony Castrillo IV on Monday, August 28, 2023, at the 3rd Judicial District Court. Castrillo is accused of killing two-year-old Faviola Rodriguez.

Then, after testimony, the bailiff informed Counts that a third juror raised an issue. The juror said she had a connection with Baby Favi's biological father's mother. And that relationship, she added, was significant to her. She told the court she couldn't be impartial or fair because of the connection and asked to be excused. Counts then excused her, leaving 12 jurors and one alternate left.

Prosecutor's opening remarks

Guardiola painted an emotional and heart-wrenching picture in his opening remarks to the jury.

Guardiola told the jury that witnesses  such as Baby Favi's family, first responders and police  would testify about her bruise-covered body. He said medical professionals who examined Favi's body would confirm she died of homicide and not an accident, and that the only person with the 2-year-old that night was Castrillo.

Prosecutor Salvador Guardiola makes his opening remarks during the trial of Lalo Anthony Castrillo IV on Monday, August 28, 2023, at the Third Judicial 3rd District Court. Castrillo is accused of killing two-year-old Faviola Rodriguez.

But the evidence, Guardiola said, would also prove Castrillo tried to sell police a misleading story about being asleep when the girl died. Instead, Guardiola said that Castrillo was awake and searching the internet. Guardiola added that those searches were "incredibly telling."

Defense opening remarks

And, where Guardiola took a more passionate tone, Coronado appealed to the jury's reason.

He told the jury that the story was more complex than Guardiola's version. Instead, nuanced evidence would show Castrillo was not at fault, Coronado said. For example, he said the bruises did not come from a vicious attack but from life-saving efforts that ultimately failed.

Additionally, Baby Favi also did not die from violence, Coronado said. Instead, she succumbed to a subdural hematoma, a medical incident where blood pools on top of the brain, injuries he said she suffered not from abuse but from the regular activity of a hyper toddler.

Defense attorney Jose Coronado makes his opening remarks during the trial of Lalo Anthony Castrillo IV on Monday, August 28, 2023, at the 3rd Judicial District Court. Castrillo is accused of killing two-year-old Faviola Rodriguez.

Lastly, Coronado cast doubt on the initial medical examiner's review, which ruled Favi's death a homicide. He said that corrections to the report made two years after the initial examination showed the medical examiner did a poor job. Coronado promised the jury they'd hear a second opinion from a private medical examiner flying to Las Cruces from Georgia.

Baby Favi's mother, Saundra Gonzales, takes the stand

The bulk of the afternoon was taken up by Saundra Gonzales' testimony. In all, Gonzales testified for over two hours as she answered questions about her relationship with Castrillo, Baby Favi's health, and the night of her death.

She said she and Castrillo began their relationship in January 2018. Both Castrillo and Gonzales were in their early twenties when they started dating. Castrillo worked as a promoter for his father's club, and Gonzales moved between different jobs but settled on a job working at a Las Cruces convenience store. They moved in together in the spring of 2018 in an apartment on the northern side of Las Cruces.

Saundra Gonzales, left, fields questions from prosecutor Salvador Guardiola, right, during the trial of Lalo Anthony Castrillo IV on Monday, August 28, 2023, at the 3rd Judicial District Court. Castrillo is accused of killing Gonzales' two-year-old Faviola Rodriguez.

Gonzales said that she and Castrillo would argue but did not characterize the fights beyond that. However, one topic she and Castrillo fought over was Baby Favi.

Gonzales told the jury that Castrillo took issue with Favi sleeping in their bed. Gonzales also said that Castrillo got upset about Gonzales' father wanting to stay over and help take care of Favi "because he was paying for an apartment for us and not my dad," Gonzales said. Gonzales yielded and asked her father, who'd been one of Baby Favi's primary caretakers to that point, to leave.

She said that Castrillo once disciplined Favi by hitting her hand. But she told Castrillo that wasn't acceptable, and he did not do it again. Sometimes, however, Gonzales said she saw Castrillo yelling at Favi.

Sept. 5, 2018, was to be the first night Castrillo babysat Favi. Gonzales' job at the convenience store required her to work until about 2 or 3 a.m. each morning. So, she needed a caretaker for Favi those hours.

Much of the cross-examination involved a discussion of Faviola's health. As a newborn, she had to be placed in the neonatal intensive care unit for about a week before she was released. She also bruised easily, Gonzales said, but had a lot of energy for a young child. Baby Favi was also a talker. Gonzales said she learned a fair bit of vocabulary, more than other toddlers her age, before her death.

Saundra Gonzales wipes tears from her eyes during the trial of Lalo Anthony Castrillo IV on Monday, August 28, 2023, at the 3rd Judicial District Court. Castrillo is accused of killing Gonzales two-year-old Faviola Rodriguez.

Coronado also focused on an incident a few weeks before her death. Baby Favi had fallen at her grandfather's house, leading to a bruise on her head. Coronado also introduced the idea that Favi may have hurt herself at other points in the weeks leading up to her death.

But on the night of her death, Gonzales said Favi made no mention of any injuries. In fact, Favi had been taken to her family doctor that day because she had a cold and congestion. Gonzales also bathed her before going to work. She told the jury there were no bruises or injuries when she left Favi with Castrillo.

What's next?

After Baby Favis mother testified for about three hours, the day ended.

Joey Gonzales, Baby Favi's grandfather, is listed as the first to testify on Tuesday. According to court filings, Joey Gonzales will speak about his recollections of that night and how he took Baby Favi to see his nurse practitioner earlier in the day. The nurse practitioner is also expected to testify.

Robert Milks, a records custodian with the Mesilla Valley Regional Dispatch, which operates 911 services in Dona Ana County, will speak on Tuesday. During his testimony, prosecutors will likely play a 911 call Castrillo made the night of Baby Favi's death.

Lastly, Tuesday's trial will also feature testimony from two first responders from the Las Cruces Fire Department. The two first responders will speak about what they saw while transporting Baby Favi to the hospital.

Justin Garcia is a public safety reporter for the Las Cruces Sun-News. He can be reached at JEGarcia@lcsun-news.com.

This article originally appeared on Las Cruces Sun-News: One juror excused, two more in question as Baby Favi trial begins
Enterprise AI

OpenAI has officially launched a new business-friendly version of its popular AI chatbot ChatGPT, in what seems like a clear attempt to woo companies into paying for features like "enterprise-grade security and privacy" and "unlimited higher-speed GPT-4 access."

The new product, ChatGPT Enterprise, which is entirely separate from the $20-a-month ChatGPT Plus, is an attempt to assuage fears over employees inadvertently giving up sensitive company data to the chatbot.

The timing of the company's announcement is interesting. The release comes amid reports that OpenAI is burning cash at an alarming rate as it struggles to monetize its flagship chatbot  so it doesn't exactly come as a surprise that it's trying to establish itself in the enterprise software space, where margins are typically wider compared to the consumer market.

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And that's especially relevant as public interest in ChatGPT is reportedly waning right as OpenAI is starting to feel the pressure to develop a revenue model.

Leaky Chatbot

Earlier this year, a large number of companies including Google, Amazon, and Samsung warned workers that they need to be careful about leaking company secrets to OpenAI's algorithm.

To get ahead of these fears, OpenAI is now promising that it won't "train on your business data or conversations" if the company subscribes to ChatGPT Enterprise.

That leaves a glaring question: what about companies that aren't subscribed? Are their company secrets vulnerable to ChatGPT's prying eyes?

Then there's OpenAI's eyewatering burn rate. The company is likely chewing through staggering sums to keep ChatGPT running, leading to questions surrounding the company's long-term financial viability. Will an enterprise-grade solution allow the company to rake in enough cash to keep its core product running?

OpenAI is hoping that a high-speed connection to the bot, among other features, will be convincing enough. ChatGPT Enterprise will give companies an unfettered front-of-the-line access to the chatty bot.

"ChatGPT Enterprise removes all usage caps, and performs up to two times faster," OpenAI promised in its announcement.

The Sam Altman-led company is also promising that "more features" are "in the works" that allow companies to tailor the software to their needs even further.

"Were onboarding as many enterprises as we can over the next few weeks," the announcement reads.

ChatGPT isn't the only AI chatbot on the block, with Google's Bard and Anthropic's Claude 2 also competing in the ongoing AI arms race.

OpenAI has aimed its sights at enterprise customers to further position itself as the winner  but whether its sales pitch will end up resonating with enough of them remains to be seen.

More on ChatGPT: The Most Fearsome Hackers Just Went Ham on ChatGPT
For one of the worlds best-known opera stars, Renee Fleming has sure popped up in some expected places.

The soaring soprano is the only classical singer to perform the National Anthem at the Super Bowl (in 2014, where Seattle clobbered Denver). She has sung on movie soundtracks from Piglets Big Movie to Lord of the Rings: Return of the King.

And she has been a long-time advocate for the arts and health, particularly in how music can help people heal. That led her to sing in an MRI machine a few years ago, so the National Institutes of Health could study her brain waves.

One place she hasnt appeared in nearly 20 years is Charlotte. But thats about to change, as Fleming will perform with the Charlotte Symphony at its annual gala Sept. 20, singing with them for the first time since 2004. The next day, she will moderate a free panel at Queens University of Charlotte on music, neuroscience and health care.

Opera star Renee Fleming returns to Charlotte for the first time in 19 years to perform with the Charlotte Symphony at its annual September gala.

One more thing.

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The five-time Grammy winner, who has performed for Queen Elizabeth II, President Barack Obama and at the Nobel Peace Prize ceremonies, is about to receive another accolade this year. The 64-year-old was selected for a Kennedy Center of the Performing Arts lifetime artistic achievement award Dec. 3 at a ceremony alongside fellow honorees Billy Crystal, The Bee Gees Barry Gibb, Queen Latifah and Dionne Warwick.

Fleming recently spoke with the Observer from her home in northern Virginia about her upcoming appearance with the Charlotte Symphony, her involvement with music and the mind, and an unexpected interest. Answers have been lightly edited for brevity and clarity.

Q & A with opera star Renee Fleming

What can people expect at your concert in Charlotte?

Well, we put together a really exciting program, I think. The (Richard) Strauss Four Last Songs is my kind of signature concert work and probably, in my mind, the greatest piece written for soprano and orchestra. Its epic. Its absolutely epic. And then in the second half, theres a little bit of something for everyone. I have Italian arias and Rodgers and Hammerstein. Some of the famous pieces there, and a piece that was written for me. (Andew Lippas The Diva.) Its just a few lovely numbers, famous arias and a couple of iconic songs.

Do you have a favorite song of the various pieces you sing, one that you have to have at every concert?

Well, I have to have (Puccinis aria) O mio babinno caro. Its really kind of epic. Its universal. Its universally loved. I also have Leonard Cohens Hallelujah as an encore, which is another piece that wherever you go in the world, people know it and love it.

Im curious: Your voice is your life, or certainly a big part of it. What sort of vocal care do you do before and after a concert like this?

its just day in and day out, making sure that I maintain vocal health, and that Im healthy. Thats most of it, that Im not getting sick. So living moderately, getting enough sleep and staying hydrated. Those are some of the kind of basics.

I understand. I read that you still feel pressure when you go on to stage. I mean, youve sung at the Super Bowl, for the queen, let alone all these famous opera houses. Do you still feel that way? And if so, how do you deal with it?

For those types of events? Absolutely. But for coming and singing for friends and family, then its all joy. I really love what I do.

I also wanted to talk to you about your longtime advocacy for this study of the relationship between music and health, and music and neuroscience research. Im wondering how did that start? How does one go from Julliard training and world-class opera to finding an interest becoming an advocate in this world?

It started because I had a lot of stage fright in periods of my development. I also had somatic pain, (a type of aching, gnawing pain), which was kind of a distraction for performance pressure. And so I became interested in the mind-body connection and also interested in the brain. And I discovered that scientists were studying music and the brain, which fascinated me.

Renee Fleming is a long-time advocate for the arts and health, especially with how music can help people heal.

And I had moved to D.C. and became an (artistic) adviser to the Kennedy Center, and just coincidentally met (geneticist and NIH director) Dr. Francis Collins at a dinner party in 2015, and started on this journey of really becoming an advocate for the intersection of arts and health. (She also spearheaded a collaboration between the NIH, Kennedy Center and the National Endowment for the Arts called Sound Health that focuses on the intersection of music, health and neuroscience.) And now that I represent the World Health Organization, you know, thats put a whole new kind of global spin on it. Its incredibly exciting how fast this sector is exploding.

And you even sang from inside an MRI machine in 2017?

So that was part of an (NIH) experiment and it really worked. It was fascinating to discover that the most impactful activity between speaking, singing and imagining singing was imagining singing. An fMRI measures blood oxygen, and the brain. So they were discovering where the activity was in the brain and how much activity there was.

You also started the Healing Breath Initiative, with Google Arts and Culture, to help people improve their health and well-being through breathing exercises. What are some of the sort of the biggest takeaways youve learned over the years from your involvement in these health-related projects?

Soprano Renee Fleming will perform her signature pieces, Richard Strauss Four Last Songs, with the Charlotte Symphony on Sept. 20 at Belk Theater.

Its endless. I have enormous respect for science. And scientists. I think what the NIH does in terms of funding and really validating the best research improves our health every year. When you think of what medicine can do now, its just miraculous. Which is why this distrust of science was so shocking to me during the pandemic...

And Im learning every time I present somewhere because other scientists are always are presenting. And a lot of this is validating things that we intrinsically know about the power of the arts. We know that its emotionally impactful and its also a powerful source for memory.

And youll be leading one of these discussions here in Charlotte. What do you hope that people take away from it?

I hope a lot of people come because its enlightening. Its not difficult. The first time I heard a day of scientists speak, every 10 minutes I thought, Im not gonna get any of this. But I actually understood basically the concepts of each presentation.

And so the main thing is just remembering that in part of our DNA, and part of what shapes us as human beings, has been the need to create, the desire to be social in an artistic setting and for listening to music together. Our brain waves align. Its extraordinary.

Renee Fleming was selected for a Kennedy Center of the Performing Arts lifetime artistic achievement award this year. Fleming is seen in this 2016 file photo with Itzhak Perlman at a 2016 Carnegie Hall performance.

Finally, youve been in the public eye for so long, Im wondering if theres anything about you that you do to relax, or hobbies, that would surprise people who know you.

I dont think theres too much that would surprise people. You know, I have a very unusual lifestyle. I am traveling almost all the time. But I spent the whole day yesterday in Pittsburgh at a pickleball event because my sister-in-law has become someone who is so good at it that she tours and wins prizes. And so I feel indoctrinated now. I love doing new things like that.

CSO annual gala

What: The Charlotte Symphony Orchestras annual gala, featuring opera star Renee Fleming and orchestra conductor laureate Christopher Warren-Green.

When: Sept. 20 at 7 p.m.

Where: Blumenthal Performing Arts Belk Theater, 130 N. Tryon St., Charlotte

Tickets: charlottesymphony.org/events

Music and the Mind

What: Renee Fleming leads a free community discussion with local neuroscientists, researchers, physician and educators to discuss their work at the intersection of music, neuroscience, and healthcare. Speakers include Gene Woods, CEO of Advocate Health, the combination of Atrium Health and Advocate Aurora Health.

When: Sept. 21 at 5 p.m.

Where: Sarah Belk Gambrell Center at Queens University of Charlotte, 2319 Wellesley Ave., Charlotte

Tickets: charlottesymphony.org/events

More arts coverage

Want to see more stories like this? Sign up here for our free Inside Charlotte Arts newsletter: charlotteobserver.com/newsletters. And you can join our Facebook group, Inside Charlotte Arts, by going here: facebook.com/groups/insidecharlottearts.
People with the group No Labels hold signs during a rally on Capitol Hill in Washington on July 18, 2011. The No Labels movement has talked about offering a third-party candidate for president next year. | Jacquelyn Martin, Associated Press

I have a theory: If I were to go down Main Street in Salt Lake City and randomly ask people if they have heard of the No Labels movement, I would be lucky to get 1 in 10 who say yes.

The same would apply to any major city, with the possible exception of Washington.

I mention that exception because, now that the movement has started to talk about the real possibility of running a third-party candidate for president next year, the Washington establishment has begun to react as if an enemy is about to invade.

People close to President Joe Biden have warned that a No Labels ticket (or a Bernie Sanders or Cornel West bid) would siphon votes away from Biden and lead Donald Trump to victory.

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In Arizona, the Democratic Party sued to keep No Labels off the ballot in 24, claiming deficiencies in the paperwork.

Earlier this month, a judge rejected that claim.

If the movement was inconsequential, no one would care.

No Labels (founded on the idea that politicians should put labels aside and solve problems) unveiled a 30-point list of policy positions last month in New Hampshire  at an event that tantalized political observers because it featured Democratic West Virginia Sen. Joe Manchin and former Utah Gov. Jon Huntsman Jr. as speakers. The notion of a possible Manchin-Huntsman ticket raised the ire of Democrats.

Former Utah Gov. Jon Huntsman, left, laughs as Sen. Mike Lee, R-Utah, speaks, with Sen. Joe Manchin, D-W.Va., right, during a hearing of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee on his nomination to become the U.S. ambassador to Russia, on Capitol Hill on Sept. 19, 2017. | Alex Brandon, Associated Press

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But what if the group chooses a well-known Republican to head the ticket? Republicans would come for them just as hard, or harder, than Democrats are today.

No Labels is selling itself not as a political party, but as an insurance policy for America in 24. The group wont launch a ticket unless its clear Trump and Biden will win their party nominations again.

The premise for this is simple  most voters, they believe, do not want a rematch, and it wouldnt be good for the country.

No Labels refers to polling it says proves its point. The firm HarrisX surveyed 9,418 registered voters in eight battleground states  Arizona, Florida, Georgia, Michigan, Nevada, North Carolina, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin. It found that 72% do not want Biden to run again and 63% do not want Trump. More importantly, 63% said they were open to an independent third-party ticket. The poll claims a margin of error of 1%.

Do the math. In all but two states nationwide, the winner of the presidential race takes home all that states electoral votes, even if the margin of victory is only one vote. In a competitive three-way race, the winner could emerge with just a bit over 33% of the vote.

This, for No Labels, is the good news.

The bad news starts with my original theory.

No Labels has been around for 13 years. It was started about the time President Barack Obama and a Democratic majority passed Obamacare without a single Republican vote. Since then, the group helped organize the bipartisan Problem Solvers Caucus in the House, then got senators and House members to better cooperate on key issues such as the infrastructure bill.

But if No Labels wants to win in 2024, the group desperately needs to find a high-profile, household-name candidate. That could be a challenge, considering any current member of Congress who steps up will  unless he or she wins  be ruined in terms of party involvement.

The biggest obstacle, of course, is history. No third-party candidate has succeeded in doing much more than acting as a spoiler. Even Teddy Roosevelt, who ran a third-party bid in 1912 as a former president, succeeded only in electing Democrat Woodrow Wilson.

No Labels CEO Nancy Jacobson talks with the Deseret News editorial board at the Deseret News offices in Salt Lake City on Thursday, Aug. 24, 2023. No Labels National Director Joe Cunningham is next to her. | Kristin Murphy, Deseret News

No Labels founder Nancy Jacobson, who met with the Deseret News/KSL editorial board on Thursday, insisted the group is not interested in being a spoiler. It believes it can win.

We are at a unique moment in time, she said. If were ever going to create power in the center, this is the moment.

No Labels officials are clear that they are not organizing a new party. Should they elect a president, he or she would assume office as a Republican or Democrat, whichever they were before running.

Such a victory, as unlikely as it seems, would indeed turn politics on its head in this country. It would be a triumph for the underrepresented moderates. But obstacles are plenty.

No Labels wont decide until after Super Tuesday whether it even wants to enter the fray. Then, success depends on many things, especially who is chosen to run at the groups April convention. Next comes fundraising, advertising and all the things successful campaigns require, but all in a limited amount of time, and against well-heeled Republican and Democratic machines. The organization would leave most of this up to the candidates themselves. For the group, much is at stake.

Once it steps into the ring, the problem-solvers become a problem, and that could affect the groups ability to resume its role as a force for compromises. Everything depends on an unlikely victory.
A man holds a flag and listens to a speaker during a rally at South Carolinas Statehouse on Sunday, Jan. 17, 2021, in Columbia, S.C. | Meg Kinnard, Associated Press

Jaiden is a 12-year-old student at a charter school in Colorado Springs who yesterday was kicked out of class for disruptive activities.

He didnt punch anyone, shout, curse, make noise or act in any unruly way. Quite the contrary  Jaiden is a well-mannered boy who dresses and acts in an upstanding way. It just so happens that Jaiden is also very patriotic.

He portrays his patriotism with clothing (sometimes wearing a tri-corner hat) and also on his backpack  featuring a Dont Tread on Me Gadsden flag.

But the director at Vanguard School, where Jaiden attends, appears to believe that this historical flag has origins with slavery and is disruptive to the classroom environment. He told Jaidens mother the boy could not return to class unless the patch was removed.

Meet 12yo Jaiden who was kicked out of class yesterday in Colorado Springs for having a Gadsden flag patch, which the school claims has "origins with slavery."



The school's director said via email that the patch was "disruptive to the classroom environment."



Receipts in the  pic.twitter.com/qQ8jK1zSpR  Connor Boyack  (@cboyack) August 29, 2023

This is clear viewpoint discrimination. Indeed, the school district policy that the director cited only relates to things featuring drugs, tobacco, alcohol or weapons  none of which apply to the Gadsden flag.

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This unfortunate example is part of a much broader trend of schools using arbitrary policies to either enforce biased agendas or censor students. Earlier this year, two Michigan students were banned from wearing Lets Go Brandon clothing that was critical of President Joe Biden. Another student was suspended for wearing a Women for Trump mask. Another was told to take off their There are only two genders T-shirt.

Decades ago, the U.S. Supreme Court held in Tinker v. Des Moines that political disagreement on school campuses is not only an inevitable part of the process of attending school; it is also an important part of the educational process. And yet, schools like Vanguard empower activist administrators to enforce arbitrary interpretations of irrelevant policies to kick kids like Jaiden out of class.

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I had the fortune of breaking Jaidens story; hes an avid reader of my Tuttle Twins books, which teach kids what their rights are and why they should stand up for them  just like Jaiden is doing now. So he and his mother reached out to ask for help highlighting what the school had done to him.

The story got so much traction that the Colorado governor responded: Obviously the Gadsden flag is a proud symbol of the American revolution and a iconic warning to Britain or any government not to violate the liberties of Americans, he wrote on X, the social media platform formerly known as Twitter. It appears on popular American medallions and challenge coins through today and Ben Franklin also adopted it to symbolize the union of the 13 colonies. Its a great teaching moment for a history lesson!

Its a lesson indeed  a lesson that government school administrators create environments hostile to learning and expression, citing slavery and racism to attack things that they dislike. Its not the first time, and it wont be the last. Its also a lesson that sometimes you need to stand up against authority, even if your government might wrongfully allude to you being a domestic terrorist for doing so.

The only thing necessary for the triumph of viewpoint discrimination and school policies that infringe on students rights is for good students to do nothing. Kudos to Jaiden for taking a stand for his rights.

Connor Boyack is president of Libertas Institute, a public speaker, and an author of over 40 books, including the Tuttle Twins childrens book series.
Editors note: Dennis Aftergut is a former federal prosecutor and currently counsel to Lawyers Defending American Democracy, a nonpartisan organization engaged in preserving the rule of law. Jeffrey Abramson is a professor of government and law emeritus at the University of Texas at Austin and author of We, The Jury: The Jury System and the Ideal of Democracy. The views expressed here are the authors own. Read more opinion on CNN.

On Monday, US District Judge Tanya Chutkan set a March 4 start date for former President Donald Trumps federal criminal trial on charges of conspiring to overturn the 2020 election. The public has a right to a prompt and efficient resolution of this matter, Chutkan said.

Dennis Aftergut - Courtesy of Dennis Aftergut

She is correct. There are also many other reasons why the date she chose is the right one, and why Trumps proposal to set his trial for April 2026 was preposterous.

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Most obviously, with Trump as the current leading contender for the 2024 Republican presidential nomination, Americans deserve to know before they vote in the general election if a jury of his peers finds him innocent or guilty of having tried to end the lawful transition of power after the 2020 election.

Jeffrey Abramson - University of Texas at Austin

As a Politico Magazine/Ipsos poll reported Friday, 3 in 5 Americans favor a trial of Trump on the charges in the case before Chutkan ahead of the 2024 election. A post-election start date, as Trump wanted, would drain a jury verdict of its crucial value as citizens cast their ballots on who shall lead the country.

In addition, the March 4 date leaves room, if exigencies arise, for moving the start date back a couple of months and still finishing before the GOPs July nominating convention. Indeed, a date later than March 4 would have posed the serious risk of the trial eventually being moved into the heat of the summer and fall election campaign.

Having a trial at the peak of the presidential race would allow Trump to scream even louder about being a victim of a justice system trying to interfere with his campaign. Of course, well hear that anyway, but the earlier the trial, the less force that message will have since ample time for campaigning would remain after the trial.

What American democracy cannot afford, and what Chutkan would not allow, was for Trump to run out the clock to try to win the election in the absence of a conviction. Such a scenario would allow him to order his administrations attorney general to dismiss the case, as well as the other federal case that special counsel Jack Smith is bringing over his alleged misuse of classified documents.

Trump has asserted his innocence in all four criminal cases against him.

Theres another reason why March 4, the day before the Super Tuesday primary contests, works well: It sits in the middle of two other scheduled 2024 trials.

On January 29, an important civil fraud trial is set to begin against Trump by investors accusing him and his company of promoting a pyramid scheme. Trump has denied any wrongdoing.

And March 25 is the date scheduled for jury selection in the Manhattan trial related to hush money payments to adult film star Stormy Daniels. Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg has signaled that he would accept a delay in that start date if needed to accommodate the federal trial in the election interference case.

Last among the reasons supporting the March 4 date is that seven months between the date of the indictment and start of a trial protects Trumps right to have adequate time for his lawyers to prepare.

Trumps attorneys attempted to justify a two-year delay on the grounds that they needed that much time to review the volumes of documents in the case. The claim was frivolous. Any experienced judge or litigator knows that modern digitalized search methodology makes locating and reviewing the central written evidence in a case easily doable in a period of months.

Trumps lawyers also argued that their timeline was consistent with the average time for conspiracy cases generally to go to trial as well as the January 6 prosecutions of participants. Smith rebutted their statistics by showing that they had skewed the timelines by including periods where Covid-19 had delayed trials, periods of extended plea negotiations and periods after trial until sentencing, which can be many months.

For his part, Smith had aggressively sought a January 2 trial date. But Chutkan rejected that date, adding two months to ensure sufficient prep time for Trump and his lawyers.

Now that it looks like Trumps attempt at an extended delay is failing, we can expect him and his allies to unleash another strategy: disdaining jury verdicts  2024s equivalent of dismissing the 2020 election results as rigged even before they occurred.

History tells us that we, and our system of justice, need to stand up for both the integrity and timing of Trumps jury trials.

Regrettably, some Trump supporters disrespect of jury verdicts is already happening. We saw Trumps acolytes fall into line last week on the Republican primary debate stage in Milwaukee. Six of eight Republican presidential candidates chose to trash the trial by jury, as a Washington Post opinion headline put it, by raising their hands to say that a jurys guilty verdict would not change their support for Trump if he were the partys presidential nominee.

Dismissing the jury system undermines an extraordinary inheritance that was hard-won over centuries. Thomas Jefferson, months before the signing of the US Constitution, wrote how the jury system embodies democracy in America:(T)he opinion of 12 honest jurymen gives still a better hope of right.

Trial by jury, secured in Article III of the Constitution and the Sixth Amendment, ensures that judgments of innocence and guilt are tied to the conscience of the community.

Every citizen who hopes to keep our constitutional republic should applaud a judge and judicial system that aims to avoid delaying justice until it is denied and to preserve our ability to vote with the information we need. To accomplish that double purpose, Chutkan chose exactly the right start date for Trumps most pivotal federal trial.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
MEMPHIS, Tenn.  Nearly three weeks after a robbery suspect was shot and killed by police in Osceola, Arkansas, the shooting has been ruled justified by state investigators, and no charges will be filed against officers.

Keivion Jones, 33, was accused of robbing a convenience store in Osceola the morning of Aug. 9. Surveillance video shows him holding a rifle inside the store.

Family identifies man killed in Osceola, AR officer-involved shooting

Police later found Jones standing outside a vehicle parked outside a residence. Officers gave him commands to show his hands, but Jones ignored them and pointed an AK-47 rifle at one of the officers, according to a statement from Osceola Police.

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Two officers opened fire, fatally wounding Jones.

The investigation was handed over to Arkansas State Police. ASP, along with a state prosecutor, informed the department in a letter dated Aug. 21 that the shooting was ruled as justified.

Man killed by Osceola police had mental health issues, family says

Family members told WREG that Jones suffered from mental illness.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WREG.com.
Ginger Zee is seriously back in work mode.

ABC News chief meteorologist just returned from her summer vacation and is currently in the thick of it on the Treasure Coast of Florida.

On Tuesday morning, Zee reported live for Good Morning America from St. Pete Beach, an area projected to start blowing up weather wise in a matter of hours.

READ MORE: Where is Hurricane Idalia now?

We are in Zone A, this is an evacuation zone, Zee told GMA viewers. After this show, we are outta here, as everyone should be.

Tropical Storm Idalia is forecast to intensify into a powerful Category 3 hurricane as it moves over the Gulf of Mexico, likely making landfall Wednesday along Floridas so called Big Bend  stretching from Tampa to south of Tallahassee.

A better place was what I meant - nothing is great! And yes Ive covered storms from st Marks to Lake City to Cedar key. Please dont take that the wrong way. I was saying away from Tampa bay is better for Tampa bay. But they still have impacts. https://t.co/QWZR7rxNnp  Ginger Zee (@Ginger_Zee) August 29, 2023

Thats a great place where it should make landfall, noted Zee, because its not as populated as, say Tampa Bay, the 18th largest metropolitan area in the United States. A place like Cedar Key? Were talking about unsurvivable storm surge ... the number one loss of life and property.

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One social media user with the X (formerly Twitter) handle @nesser1983 called out the veteran weather expert in real time.

Did you really just say that its a great place for this hurricane to make landfall? Where these people dont have the means to rebuild? Have you ever been north of Cedar Key?! How inconsiderate! Im disappointed! Do better! These people will be devastated!

Zee was quick to respond and clarify, saying yes, she had covered storms north of historic Cedar Key, Floridas second oldest town, located on the so called Nature Coast, with fewer than 1,000 permanent residents.

A better place was what I meant - nothing is great! wrote the Michigan-raised mother of two. Please dont take that the wrong way. I was saying away from Tampa Bay is better for Tampa Bay. But they still have impacts.

Another viewer, who obvio wasnt mad, chimed in on the comments: We appreciate you being here Ginger. Thank you.

READ MORE: Troll calls out Ginger Zee on her outfit
The new owner of a bankrupt Boston cruise company said he hopes to rebuild customers faith and trust in the brand with a relaunch in 2024.

Aurora Expeditions Chairman Neville Buch said Vantage Deluxe World Travel will be renamed Vantage Explorations and will offer Vantage style trips in the new year.

We are fully committed to restoring value to Vantage customer creditors and at the same time delivering exceptional travel experiences. Unfortunately the speed of the process and the uncertainty of outcome until only a few weeks ago has meant that everything is work in process, Buch said in an email to Boston 25.

The Australian-based Aurora took over Vantages assets this month after making a $2 million bid in U.S. Bankruptcy Court. Vantage filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in June after coming under fire for months. Hundreds complained about a lack of refunds for canceled or postponed trips and its estimated Vantage owes $108 million to its customers.

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Under the terms of the acquisition, Aurora is offering 100 percent future travel credits to Vantage customers owed money. If a customer decides to try an ocean cruise with the new company, they may use 50 percent of their travel credits at a time based on a cruises list price and based on availability. If a former Vantage customer wants to take a river or land trip, they can use 20 percent of their travel credits per trip.

The travel credits are valid through Nov. 2028 and Vantage customers may share their credits with friends and family.

We plan on beginning communication with customer creditors in the next two weeks and hope that they will consider our offering in the spirit that it is intended, Buch said. For Oceangoing product we have our fleet of Infinity class ships and will expand the offering to include more Vantage style trips which we can offer right away. For river and land we are in discussion with various operators looking for the right partner which we hope to complete in the next few months.

An Aurora spokesperson said the company is developing itineraries in the Caribbean, Mediterranean, Middle East and British Isles.

The credits are good for five years so you have plenty of time to wait and see. That would be my recommendation, said Consumer Rescue founder Michelle Couch-Friedman. Couch-Friedman has reported extensively on Vantages financial issues and has been in touch with hundreds of Vantage customers. She recently wrote a consumer guide for Vantage customers and posted a Q&A with Buch.

If you decide youre done traveling and you dont want the credits, the customer should still take the credits because you can give them away. You can give them to friends and family, Couch-Friedman. Theres no benefit to any Vantage customer to reject the credits.

Karrie Szatek in Fairhaven said shes not planning to use her travel credits. She said Vantage owed her around $30,000 for two overseas trips that never happened and shes hesitant to book another trip with the new company.

At this point, no. I want to wait and see, she said.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.

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Two good Samaritans and a dog who broke loose from her chain helped save the life of a man in need of medical attention, authorities in Indiana said.

The pair came across the loose dog Saturday, Aug. 26  National Dog Day  and wanted to help find her owners, according to the Jennings County Sheriffs Office.

As the man and woman were going door to door, they heard someone yelling for help, the sheriffs office said in an Aug. 28 Facebook post.

The man entered the home and found an elderly male who needed immediate medical attention, authorities said. He had been immobilized for at least two days.

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The good Samaritans called 911, and the man was rushed to a hospital, according to the Facebook post. One of the first responders told deputies that if he had not been found soon, the male may not have survived much longer.

The dog was taken to animal control, where she was reunited with her owners and taken back home, officials said.

Thank you to these good Samaritans for their kindness in caring about the dog but also potentially saving the elderly male, the sheriffs office said in the post. Dogs truly are mans best friend. Although it was not her owner, this pup breaking loose likely saved a life.

Jennings County is about 70 miles southeast of Indianapolis.

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Crews use dogs to search for human remains as they move from structure to structure and car to car on Thursday, Aug. 17, 2023. Response to the Maui fire that destroyed a large portion of the town of Lahaina, Hawaii, continues to come from neighboring islands and the mainland. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

As the West burns, environmental historian Bill Deverell said one need only to look to the practices of indigenous tribes as one way to help curtail the scope of wildfires and their potential catastrophic outcomes.

Trails on indigenous or other properties  trails act as natural fire breaks in really interesting ways. Indigenous societies have known that for thousands of years, said Deverell, a professor of history, spatial sciences and environmental studies at the University of Southern Californias Dornsife College of Letters, Arts and Sciences.

He also pointed to the need for strategic, controlled burns on private land, sovereign, tribal land or state and other public lands.

Fire doesnt really care who owns the land, he noted.

Coming together

In addition to his role as a professor, Deverell directs the Huntington-USC Institute on California and the West, or ICW, which recently launched a three-year initiative, The West on Fire. It brings together a diversity of experts that include ecologists, indigenous fire practitioners, the U.S. Forest Service, earth scientists, economists, political scientists, archivists and more.

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You know, a lot of the solutions of firefighting in the American West is can we get various agencies at the local, state and federal levels to share data, share information and communicate? And I think theres a real reason to think thats happening now in a much more exciting, important way.

But the tragic outcomes of raging and relentless wildfires are an all too frequent occurrence.

Deverell pointed to the devastation of the northern California wildfire in 2018 that razed the town of Paradise and killed 85 people ,or the August fires on the island of Maui in Hawaii that have killed 115 people so far, with more than a thousand people who remain missing.

And isnt that ironic, you know that wed look at a place like Maui which is seen by so many people as a small p paradise. And then theres literally the capital P Paradise in California, and these are two places that have been just eviscerated by wildfires (that) killed so many people. And if thats not a wake up call, that fire can come to Paradise, you know, either Hawaiian paradise or Paradise, California, I dont know what is.

Related

Old ways and new technology

Aside from trails, creating other earthen fire breaks, old-fashioned fire lookouts and removal of understory, Deverell said the technological tools to prevent catastrophic wildfires are vast: satellite imagery, the use of cartography or mapping, data visualization, advances in arial suppression and of course, the latest: artificial intelligence.

Cal Fire already uses AI to root out locations of possible wildfires, and according to a story in the Los Angeles Times, California is the first place in the world to do so using an alert system that in just a couple months identified 77 fires even before any 911 calls were placed.

Recognizing the importance of prescribed burns, the University of Southern California is also entrenched in a project funded through the National Science Foundation using AI as a metric for identifying the best locations and least risk for landscape-scale controlled burns.

Bistra Dilkina said AI, through this pilot project, can factor the myriad considerations that must be part of decision making for prescribed burns, especially in light of constrained resources.

Prescribed burns are very important, but theyre also difficult to plan. And in the past, theres been limited usage of prescribed burns. But in the next few decades it is expected prescribed burns are to be a common mitigation strategy, said Dilkina, an associate professor of computer science and of industrial and systems engineering.

So theres investment and interest from the wildfire community to understand how to do prescribed burns more effectively.

Dilkina, who is co-director of the universitys Center for Artificial Intelligence in Society, said the project aims to do just that  help configure the decision for land managers on the most ideal and effective locations.

So you have limited resources and you can only do X number of prescribed burns in a year. You have multiple locations where you can do them. Theres multiple locations where there is a build up of fuel and so where should you do lets say the five prescribed burns that you can afford to do? Right, so its a resource allocation problem, she said.

That narrow window of choices adds to the complexity of the problem because of other considerations that need to be taken into account.

Those considerations include:

Proximity to structures.

Landscapes in which endangered or threatened species would be impacted.

Air quality.

Potential for fire impairing water quality.

Outcomes at odds

Those considerations can naturally be at odds with one another. An ideal location for a prescribed burn that does not jeopardize structures may inevitably harm already impaired wildlife. Or a burn that diminishes air quality concerns for public health may jeopardize water quality.

The AI tool is pulling in those factors and formulating scenarios based on tradeoffs via an engineering approach called the Pareto Front  examining nondominated solutions that are selected because no objective can be improved without sacrificing another.

Dilkina said there may be a prescribed burn that decreases the risk of a wildfire, but the burn may be too close to structures. The Pareto Front is the array of alternative solutions that details the tradeoffs, allowing the decision maker on prescribed burns to ultimately make the call.

Wildfire mitigation and alarm bells

The AI demonstration project is working in conjunction with wildfire managers and other employees at Yosemite National Park, which has had its own series of fires in recent years that include the 2022 arson-caused blaze which burned 100 homes outside its boundaries.

This year, the Pika Fire at Yosemite was allowed to burn, and while it caused air quality impacts, the National Park Service said the lightning-caused blaze was being treated as a way to clear overgrown landscapes.

Crews used a control and confine strategy on the blaze as a way for nature to do its own housekeeping.

Deverell agreed that fire is like deep cleaning an ecosystem under the right circumstances and has always been a part of nature.

Fire is just such an omnipresent issue. It always has been with us, but it is I think increasingly so in places that dont think theyre vulnerable to Western wildlands fire  either by the fire itself or the smoke, he said. So we want people to talk about it more and think about ways in which we can mitigate the dangers.

When asked if Lahaina should be a wakeup call on the unfathomable tragedy delivered by wildfires more frequent and intense, Deverell said that alarm went off decades ago.

I think weve had the wakeup calls. Im just not sure everyones woken up to them, he said. With climate change, climate swings, drought, theres the wakeup call. The alarm is ringing.
Tennessees much-anticipated special legislative session, called by its Republican Gov. Bill Lee in the wake of a mass shooting at The Covenant School in March, came to a teary end on Tuesday with no legislation passed to restrict access to guns.

Footage from the state capitol showed the parents of students at The Covenant School bawling as they helplessly held signs in protesttheir pleas of the last five months falling on the deaf ears of Tennessees deep-red state House and Senate.

Mary Joyce, the mom of a surviving Covenant student, wept as she told reporters she was sick of nothing being done in the shootings aftermath. Joyce said her daughters best friend, 9-year-old Hallie Scruggs, was shot dead in the massacre. Two other students and three staff members were also gunned down by Audrey Hale, a former student who was shot dead at the scene by cops.

Joyce said its horrific that her child knows what it feels like to be shot at over and over and over again, and that nothing was done in the special session to further prevent more kids from potentially experiencing the same.

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The special session came to a chaotic end just before noon, with the House speaker, Cameron Sexton , having to push through a crowd to leave the chambers amid chants of throw him out. As Sextons entourage left, men that appeared to be his security detail pushed Rep. Justin Pearson, a Democrat, who was trying to hold a sign in front of Sextons face.

Chaos at the end of the Tennessee House special session, where Republicans adjourned without passing meaningful gun reform.



Rep. Justin Pearson (D) then approaches Speaker Cameron Sexton (R) with a sign, and Sexton and his security/staff physically push past him. pic.twitter.com/YJSiv7RJTV  The Recount (@therecount) August 29, 2023

Pearson was one of two Black lawmakers who was expelled from the House by Republicans earlier this year after they called for new gun legislation. Pearson has since been reelected in his district and has been a thorn in Sextons side.

Lee announced the special session just days after the shooting, saying he was counting on lawmakers to pass gun reform laws thatd make it harder for mentally ill and dangerous people to buy a gun. Those plans were quickly thwarted by the states Republicans, however, who vehemently refused to pass anything that infringed any access to guns.

Instead, some Republicans used the special session to try and pass legislation that wouldve allowed more guns on school campuses. House Bill 7064, which was introduced on the sessions first day and passed an initial vote, would have allowed enhanced gun permit holders, cops, and military membersboth active duty and retired, on-duty and off-dutyto be able to possess and carry a handgun at any public school building, bus, campus, or grounds.

The controversial bill failed to make it past the Houses Education Administration committee and was thrown out on Wednesday, eliciting cheers from spectators in the chamber.

The few legislative changes that were passed in the session were minor. Representatives voted in favor of allocating money to advertise a state program offering free gun safes, and an executive order was codified to set a 72-hour period for reporting new criminal activity to the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation. The legislators will meet again in January for their regular session.

Melissa Alexander, a Covenant mom who said shes a Republican, called her partys representatives compassionless on Monday.

This lack of action is a choice they are making and speaks volumes about their lack of compassion and their priority of personal agendas over the people of Tennesseeeven their own Republican constituents, including myself, she said.

Crying Covenant School Parents Booted From Tennessee Special Session

It was an emotional seven days for those associated with The Covenant School. Spectators were booted from a hearing on its first day for holding signs that read 1 Kid > All The Guns, which reportedly included the grieving parents of shooting victims. Reporters present said those parents wept as they were escorted out of the chambers.

Tennessee legislators did the same on Monday, clearing out spectators for voicing their disdain.

Also on Monday, members of the chamber voted 70-20 along party lines to ban Democrat Rep. Justin Jones from speaking for the rest of the day, claiming hed gone off-topic twice. Jones said he was only pleading for more mental health professionals and counselors in schools, and for a pay bump for teachers.

House Democrats walked out of the chambers alongside Jones in protest after he was silenced.

All I was doing was focusing on lifting up the voice of Davidson County, of my district, who say we need mental health professionals, counselors, we need common sense gun laws, Jones said Monday.

Karen Camper, the House minority leader, told reporters after the session ended that it was a failure and waste of resources.

Its been a complete waste of time, its been a waste of taxpayer money, she told reporters on Tuesday. People expected us to do something to make the public safer. We did nothing.

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A few months after a Trumpist mob marched through the halls of the U.S. Capitol calling for the summary execution of Mike Pence , the former vice president founded a political advocacy group dedicated to building on the success of the last four years.

Since its creation, Pences group, Advancing American Freedom, has defended the junk fees  hidden fees on everything from airfare to concert tickets  that the Biden administration has sought to eliminate. Its promoted, in service of an argument against an EPA rule to lower greenhouse gas emissions, the dubious argument that car seat laws function as unintentional contraception. And, earlier this month, it revived the widely-discredited theory that abortion causes breast cancer.

On YouTube, Advancing American Freedom posted an hour-long Zoom presentation delivered to the group Anglicans for Life by the surgeon and anti-abortion activist Angela Lanfranchi, a staunch defender of the debunked claim that having an abortion increases ones risk of developing breast cancer.

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In her presentation, Lanfranchi focused on what she saw as a consequential moment in this debate. In 2003  after dozens of anti-abortion lawmakers pressed George W. Bushs Department of Health and Human Services over the issue  the National Cancer Institute convened more than 100 experts on pregnancy and breast cancer research for a three-day workshop to study the supposed link. At the summit, scientists reviewed existing population-based, clinical, and animal studies and concluded there was no evidence that having an abortion or miscarriage increases a persons breast cancer risk.

Lanfranchi claimed that this was the moment, they tried to really squash [the theory] by recommending there should be no more studies. She likened the National Cancer Institutes gathering of 100 plus scientists to the book 100 Essays Against Einstein, instigated by the Nazi government in 1938 to discredit Jewish science. (Later in the presentation, she compared herself to the biblical figure St. Sebastian, a Christian martyr who was shot through with arrows for speaking his truth.)

The vast majority of scientists and medical organizations who have studied the issue disagree with Lanfranchis claim. The most definitive study on the subject, published in 1997, before the NCI gathering, examined the health data of more than a million women in Denmark; it found absolutely no effect from abortion on breast cancer.

Since the National Cancer Institute held its summit in 2003, numerous other studies have arrived at the same conclusion including a study that year of data from more than 100,000 women in France; a 2004 Lancet meta-analysis of more than 50 existing studies; a 2006 study of a quarter million women in nine countries; a 2007 Harvard study of more than 100,000 women; and a 2008 study of California teachers, to name just a few.

The National Breast Cancer Coalition, the American Cancer Society, The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and the World Health Organization have all agreed no link exists.

Pences spokesman did not immediately respond to Rolling Stones request for comment about the video.

It is not the first time that Pence  now one of the most vocally anti-abortion candidates for president  has aligned himself with groups propagating misinformation about abortion and breast cancer. On the campaign trail in 2020, he visited Gateway Womens Care, a crisis pregnancy center in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, that erroneously identifies breast cancer as a long term physical risk of abortion.

For all of the breast cancer fear-mongering to which Pence has been adjacent, as a U.S. representative, he led a crusade to end Title X funding for Planned Parenthood  which, among other things, paid for breast exams. As part of the Trump administration, he saw that dream realized, as the network was forced out of the Title X program. The Biden administration has since reversed the Trump policy.

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Former Vice President Mike Pence on Tuesday outlined a slew of executive actions he would take on Day 1 if he is elected president in 2024, making clear he would seek to roll back federal support for abortion and for transgender youth.

Pence detailed his plans on a call with reporters, arguing numerous executive actions would be needed to unwind the Biden administrations agenda.

As Ive said since I launched my campaign, Im running for president because I think this country is in a lot of trouble, he said.

Our Day 1 executive action plan is an attempt to lay out a vision for those initial actions that we believe would begin to set our nation aright, he added.

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Heres a look at some of the executive actions Pence said he would take upon assuming the presidency:

Repeal federal support for abortion

Pence said he would rescind any executive actions taken by the Biden White House to promote abortion and provide resources to those looking to get the procedure, as well as drop all federal legal support for abortion in the states.

President Biden has signed off on a handful of executive actions to protect womens rights to abortion across state lines and to expand birth control access in the aftermath of a Supreme Court decision striking down Roe v. Wade.

Pence also said he would disband the White Houses Reproductive Rights Task Force established under Biden.

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Block federal funding for transgender youth procedures

Pence said he would look to stop funding from the federal government for any gender reassignment surgeries for youth.

The former vice president said, if elected, he would reverse guidance from the Department of Health and Human Services to medical providers that states early gender-affirming care is crucial to overall health.

Pence also said he would have the Education Department issue guidance opposing transgender curricula and begin the process of blocking federal funding for districts that promote transgender education in elementary school.

He previously backed a group of parents suing an Iowa school district over its policy that allowed transgender students to request a support plan to help them socially transition at school, with or without their parents permission.

Freeze nondefense spending

Pence said he would freeze nondefense federal spending in a bid to reduce the federal deficit.

He would order all agencies to freeze spending at current levels and veto any bill that increases nondefense expenditures, his campaign said.

End federal work from home

Pences campaign has vowed to end the ability for federal workers to work from home, a policy that dates back to the onset of the coronavirus pandemic in 2020.

Americans around the country have gotten back to work since the pandemic ended and are working to get this economy moving again, his campaign said. Meanwhile, federal employees are still working from home at record rates.

Biden has reportedly similarly pushed for federal agencies to get their workers back into the office.

End Biden ESG rule

Pence said he would rescind the Biden administrations rule on environmental, social and governance (ESG) investing.

The Biden rule states money managers can weigh climate change and other ESG factors when they make decisions for retirement investments on behalf of clients. Congress passed a bill to end the rule, but the president vetoed the measure.

The Biden administration replaced a rule from the era of former President Trump that the Biden administration said discouraged consideration of ESG factors even in cases where it is in the financial interest of plans to take such considerations into account.

End Pentagon focus on social and transgender programs

Pence vowed to end the transgender agenda at the Department of Defense on Day 1.

The former vice president indicated he would stop government-funded gender transition surgery for those in the military, and he would reinstate a Trump-era ban on transgender individuals serving in the military.

The purpose and focus of the United States military should solely be the protection of our country and its citizens, the Pence campaign said.

Take border actions

Pence said he would take multiple actions upon taking office to secure the southern border, including reinstating the Remain in Mexico policy that allowed law enforcement to quickly detain and deport those who entered the country illegally back across the southern border while their asylum claims are processed.

Pence said he would direct federal agencies to restart border wall construction, calling the Biden administrations decision to halt those efforts politically motivated.

President Pence will immediately restart construction of protective barriers in order to secure our southern border, the campaign said.

The Hill Elections 2024 coverage

End politically motivated investigations

In a nod to the ongoing legal cases Trump, Pence vowed to end politically motivated Department of Justice investigations.

He has previously vowed to clean house at the Justice Department and FBI to restore confidence in those agencies. The former vice president said he would act on day one to order the Justice Department to review all current investigations and cease politically motivated prosecutions against Americans.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
The Escambia County Sheriff's Office is investigating a shooting Tuesday after an unknown gunman shot through the window of a home in an apparent targeted attack.

ECSO spokesperson Morgan Lewis told the News Journal that deputies responded to the 200 block of Yoakum Court just off Cary Memorial Drive early Tuesday morning, finding a man with a gunshot wound.

"It appears someone had shot through the window and it also appeared the front door had been kicked in," Lewis told the News Journal. "The suspect had fled the scene, and we put up a perimeter to find the suspect, but at this time we don't have a suspect."

Mugs & Jugs shooting: ECSO: Two suspects in custody after fatally shooting woman at Pensacola's Mugs & Jugs bar

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The ECSO says they believe the unknown gunman targeted the victim. Although the front door appeared kicked in, the ECSO says nothing had been stolen.

Lewis said the incident remains under investigation, and the victim was alive at the time he was transported to a local hospital.

This article originally appeared on Pensacola News Journal: Pensacola man shot in Yoakum Court, Escambia deputies say
The Pentagon announced Monday a new program focused on building out thousands of autonomous systems, including drones, as the U.S. seeks to better counter Chinas vast military buildup.

The U.S. is pledging to build out the self-operating drones and defense systems at a more rapid pace to counter Chinas mass procurement of conventional military resources  but the move is likely to face opposition from human rights groups and activists who are concerned about autonomous weapons that can kill without human input.

Deputy Secretary of Defense Kathleen Hicks unveiled the new initiative, called Replicator, at the National Defense Industrial Association conference on emerging technologies in Washington, D.C.

Hicks said the program was a big bet on overcoming the biggest advantage of Chinas military, called the Peoples Liberation Army (PLA), notably its strength in military resources.

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Rarely have Americas war-winning strategies relied solely on matching an adversary ship-for-ship and shot-for-shot, she said during her address at the conference. Instead, we out-match adversaries by out-thinking, out-strategizing, and out-maneuvering them.

Hicks said the Defense Department would leverage autonomous systems in all domains, which she said are less expensive and would ultimately put fewer people in the line of fire.

Well counter the PLAs mass with mass of our own, but ours will be harder to plan for, harder to hit, harder to beat, she said.

The U.S. has already invested in autonomous weapons systems, including self-piloting ships and uncrewed aircraft, but Hicks said the Pentagon would now be taking it to the next level, producing new systems and weapons at a more aggressive pace.

The next 18-24 months will see thousands of autonomous systems developed across multiple sectors, according to Hicks, with the help of the defense industry.

Hicks will oversee the program along with Vice Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Christopher Grady and Doug Beck, director of the Defense Innovation Unit.

The drones that most people are familiar with are unmanned aircraft but are operated by a human remotely. Modern and fully autonomous weapons have rarely been used in warfare.

But the war in Ukraine has seen Russia deploy the self-operating Lancet drone to devastating effect.

Several human rights groups have campaigned to ban autonomous weapons use. The United Nations is still weighing the issue and has yet to reach a definite agreement.

The International Red Cross humanitarian organization has recommended strict global guidelines on the use of autonomous weapons and the prohibition of unpredictable systems as well as those designed to use force.

The Pentagon in January updated its guidelines on the use of autonomous systems this year that ensures a comprehensive review of weapons systems ahead of deployment and the appropriate levels of human judgment before use of force. It also creates a working group to oversee issues.

Hicks said the Pentagon will work to ensure the systems developed from Replicator are consistent with ethical considerations.

These capabilities will be developed and fielded in line with our responsible and ethical approach to AI and autonomous systems, she said Monday.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
The Los Angeles Fire Department is fighting more than just fires. Thanks to its new electric fire engine, the LAFD is fighting air pollution, gas prices, and a slew of other issues related to dirty energy.

City of Los Angeles Fire Chief Kristin Crowley unveiled the new Rosenbauer RTX fire engine last May, and its already getting a lot of love from local residents. A Reddit user recently spotted the vehicle parked in L.A. and posted a picture on the forum r/electricvehicles. The post has already garnered thousands of upvotes and hundreds of comments.

One Redditor called electric fire trucks a great fleet EV use case, noting the vehicles emphasis on low maintenance and high reliability.

Another user commented, That thing is probably SICK!! while others remarked on the engines uncanny resemblance to the Transformers character Optimus Prime.

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The LAFDs official Reddit account also commented on the post to clarify that the vehicle is properly described as a Fire Engine rather than a Fire Truck and link some helpful resources. The posts author, firefighter and specialist public service officer Brian Humphrey, also directed interested users to the LAFDs official subreddit, r/LAFD.

After reaching an agreement with Austrian manufacturer Rosenbauer in 2020, Los Angeles became the first city in North America to use an electric fire engine. Rosenbauer calls its RTX model the worlds first electric fire truck and its European brother model, the RT, is already used in Germany by the Berlin Fire Department.

The LAFDs new addition responded to more than 100 calls in its first week, and reviews have been positive. The vehicle has been praised for its quiet engine, its innovative cab design, and its pedestrian-friendly features, like its turning radius.

Plus, it cuts down on the noxious fumes from gas-powered trucks, which can damage firefighters health. Given that the Berlin Fire Department just ordered four additional RT models in December 2022, theres a chance an electric fire engine could be coming soon to a fire department near you.

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Although passenger vehicles are Teslas bread and butter, the popular EV company has also dipped its toe into making electric semitrucks, with the most notable example being the fleet it built for PepsiCos Sacramento, California, plant.

Now, the North American Council for Freight Efficiency has gotten a tour of the Pepsi facility and has released a video that includes some information and details about how the soda and snack food company uses its fleet of 21 electric semis.

This embedded content is not available in your region.

Run On Less  Electric DEPOT  Pepsi Beverages from NACFE on Vimeo.

According to Amanda DeVoe, Pepsis transformation and strategy director, the company has found that it is most advantageous to run the trucks for around 12 hours a day on routes that are mostly under 100 miles.

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However, three of the semis are dedicated to long-haul routes of 250 to 450 miles. Using Tesla Megachargers along the routes, the trucks can reportedly go from 5% charged to 95% charged in only 20 to 30 minutes.

Also worth noting is that Teslas regenerative braking technology allows the trucks to be used on hellacious routes such as the Donner Pass.

Going across Donner Pass and back from [Sacramento] to Nevada, were able to, on the trip back, actually zero out, in terms of state of charge improving due to regenerative braking, Dejan Antunovic, Pepsis electrification program manager, said in the video. It extends range for us in a way that is invaluable.

According to the Department of Energy, even though medium- and heavy-duty trucks account for only 4% of the vehicles in the United States, they consume 25% of total highway fuel and create nearly 30% of highway carbon emissions. Stricter standards on smog-forming emissions on trucks will take effect in 2027, which could force companies to turn to electric versions such as this Tesla fleet.

The commenters on the Inside EVs article reporting the news seemed impressed by the performance of the trucks as Pepsi presented it and optimistic about the future of electric trucks.

Interesting to have some data. TBH all this is filtered by the companies so its important to take that into consideration, wrote one commenter. That being said, it confirms what I said: its working and the technology will evolve fast enough to be viable for almost every deliveries in medium term perspective.

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The intersection of Oaklawn Boulevard and Ashland Street is where a pick-up truck eluding police slammed into a car July 28, 2023, killing its driver.

HOPEWELL  The man authorities say was eluding authorities in a pick-up truck when he slammed into a car last month and killed the driver has been arrested, state police said late Monday afternoon.

Tequan Devon Taylor, 34, of Petersburg, was charged with second-degree murder, state police spokesperson Corinne Geller said in an email to The Progress-Index. He is being held without bond at Riverside Regional Jail in Prince George County.

Details of Taylors arrest were not immediately available, but Geller said he was caught with the help of the U.S. Marshals Service and Petersburg Police.

According to police reports, Taylor was westbound on state Route 36, also known as Oaklawn Boulevard, in front of Fort Gregg-Adams when a Prince George Police officer clocked him going more than 20 miles per hour over the posted 45-mph limit in a Dodge Ram pick-up truck and attempted to stop him shortly before midnight July 28. Instead of stopping, Taylor allegedly sped up with the officer in tow.

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Roughly two miles into the pursuit, state police said, the pick-up ran a red light at Ashland Street and crashed into a Toyota Camry in the intersection. The force of the impact sent the car into the traffic-light pole where it bounced off, colliding again with the truck and overturned.

Red balloons were tied to a pole at the intersection of Oaklawn Boulevard and Ashland Street where a pick-up truck eluding police slammed into a car July 28, 2023, killing its driver.

The driver of the car, 45-year-old Andre Bassette of Jacksonville, Florida, was taken to TriCities Hospital in Hopewell where he later died.

After the crash, Taylor reportedly ran away from the scene. It was not known if he suffered any injuries.

The accident remains under investigation, Geller said.

Bill Atkinson (he/him/his) is an award-winning journalist who covers breaking news, government and politics. Reach him at batkinson@progress-index.com or on X (formerly known as Twitter) at @BAtkinson_PI.

This article originally appeared on The Progress-Index: Petersburg man arrested in Hopewell fatal hit-and-run
Kim Jong-un, with his daughter, reviews the honour guard during their visit to the Navy headquarters - KCNA via KNS

North Korea leader Kim Jong-un has paraded his young daughter at his regimes naval headquarters while calling for the military to be constantly ready for war.

During her first official public outing since May, Ju-ae, dressed in a formal white jacket with gold buttons, stood to attention with highly-decorated naval officers and her father, who was sporting a cream-coloured business suit.

The pair were also pictured inspecting the officers while walking along a red carpet.

Kim used the occasion marking the countrys Navy Day on Monday to lash out at the United States and South Korea for conducting more frantic naval drills near North Korean shores.

Kim alongside his daughter (left) - STR/AFP

Kim visits the Naval Command - STR/AFP

Last week, the two allies began their annual Ulchi Freedom military drills, which they insist are of a defensive nature but Pyongyang regularly calls a rehearsal for invasion.

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Kim warned in a speech that the waters off the Korean Peninsula have been made unstable with the danger of a nuclear war because of US-led hostilities, said state newswire KCNA.

He also promised to extend his own forces capabilities, pledging that: In the future, our navy will be a component of the state nuclear deterrent carrying out the strategic mission.

During his Navy Day speech, Kim said that military units of each service would be given new weaponry - KCNA via KNS

The North Korean leader cited a recent historic US-South Korea-Japan summit, hosted by Joe Biden, the US president at Camp David, where the three countries agreed to start sharing real-time missile warning data and hold annual trilateral exercises and leaders meetings.

He also referred to the recent visit of a nuclear-capable US navy ballistic missile submarine in South Korea last month.

Tensions are continuing to spiral on the Korean Peninsula because of an unprecedented series of weapons tests by the North since early 2022 and the stepping up of US-South Korea joint military drills.

In its most recent known weapons test, Pyongyang tried, and failed, to launch a spy satellite last Thursday, in a move widely condemned by the international community.

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PITTSBURGH (KDKA) -- Monday marks 60 years since Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. delivered one of the most iconic speeches in history, the "I Have a Dream" speech during the March on Washington.

A number of Pittsburghers traveled to Washington for the historic day in 1963, including Bishop Charles H. Foggie, the local leader of the NAACP at the time.

He brought back rare color video and his daughter shared some of that with us. It's only about two minutes of footage.

"He might have gotten it in anticipation of this march, but definitely wanted to make sure he captured it not just in still photography," said his daughter, Charlene Foggie-Barnett.

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But it's rare video of the 1963 March on Washington in color. It was taken by Bishop Charles H. Foggie, at the time, a Pittsburgh civil rights leader and the pastor of Wesley Center AME Zion Church in the Hill District.

"He had been NAACP president, Pittsburgh chapter. And of course, he met Dr. King and all the national leaders here in the city and other cities. But he became very involved with SNIC and Southern Christian Leadership Conference."

Charlene Foggie-Barnett is his daughter. She says the color video was among some other footage her father captured.

"You know there's these photos of my grandparents and our family doing things and then all of a sudden this pops up in this disc that my husband was able to make for me of our family films," she said.

"It was a cohesive crowd: White, Black and others mixed in, getting along. There was no pushing and shoving. And this footage is fairly close to the front of the event, so it wasn't out of control. It seemed peaceful, it seemed poignant."

"You kind of feel like you're standing in the middle with Pop. You're standing next to him, seeing what he saw, you know."

As a child, she says she remembers Martin Luther King visiting Pittsburgh -- even visiting her home. And she remembers her father marveling at the eloquence of Dr. King and being able to say he was there.

"We see the same footage so many times, when you see it on a movie camera, home movie camera, it's very different. So yeah, I'm glad Pop caught it."

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Marking 60 years since the March on Washington
The tragic collision of two L-39 training aircraft in Zhytomyr Oblast on Aug. 25, in which three Ukrainian pilots died, occurred almost immediately after takeoff, Ukrainian Air Force spokesman Yuriy Ihnat told Ukrainian public broadcaster Suspilne on Aug. 29.

Details of the tragedy, however, will be available only upon the completion of the inquiry ran by the State Bureau of Investigations, Ihnat added.

Read also: Ukrainian Air Force walks back comments about Ukrainian pilots training on F16 jets in Europe  Ihnat

Ihnat noted that the pilots were on a combat mission, details of which will remain omitted for now.

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There was a takeoff, they collided almost at the start, as they took off from the airfield, he said.

During the flight, they were carrying out the mission assigned by their division.

Read also: Kyiv mourns loss of legendary pilot in plane crash

The spokesperson explained that L-39 aircraft are used not only for training flights but also for various combat missions.

"Almost all sorties across the country are combat-related because we are at war", he adds.

Ihnat said that the three pilots in two aircraft were performing joint maneuvers.

Read also: Three potential causes for deadly Zhytomyr air disaster being investigated, says SBI

Flights on group cohesion  that's when two airplanes take off at once  are a tactical move useful at war: the closer they are to each other, the less noticeable they can be on the enemy's radars, the official explained.

Additionally, Ihnat pointed out that even experienced pilots cannot yet tell what caused the crash.

"We need to investigate  flight recorders, radio exchange, all this will be analyzed and this information will be provided", he concluded.

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Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
Even though Horry County is under a tropical storm watch for Hurricane Idalia, people will still need to get around.

Outer bands of Hurricane Idalia will bring heavy rains and possible coastal flooding to the Myrtle Beach area on Wednesday and Thursday.

Here is what you need to know about getting around the Myrtle Beach area during this tropical storm.

Flight cancellations

As of Tuesday afternoon, the Myrtle Beach International Airport has not seen widespread delays or cancellations. However, canceled flights in Florida and bad weather in Myrtle Beach could cause delays.

Ryan Betcher, Assistant Director of Airports, said in a statement that the airport intends to remain open and operate normally.

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Betcher recommended travelers check their flight status on their airlines website or the Myrtle Beach Airport page.

Road closures

Find information about road closures on the South Carolina Department of Transportation website: 511sc.org.

Buses

Coast RTA has not made any changes to routes or schedules as of Tuesday afternoon, said public information officer Lauren Morris. High winds are the biggest concern to the bus system, which operates urban and rural routes. Morris advised riders to check the Coast RTA Facebook page and app for up-to-date information.
If youre visiting the Myrtle Beach area this week, Idalia will possibly bringing even more stress to an already busy Labor Day weekend.

The tropical storms remains are expected to reach South Carolina on Wednesday and Thursday, bringing over 3 inches of rain, gusty winds and isolated tornadoes, according to the National Weather Service.

We encourage visitors to check in with their accommodation and travel providers for the latest status updates, Karen Riordan, president and CEO of the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce and Convention and Visitors Bureau, said in a statement.

Whether youre driving or flying in South Carolina, here is what tourists need to know about Tropical Storm Idalia in the Myrtle Beach area.

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As Idalia evolves, keep checking back with the Sun News for updates.

What areas are most likely to flood?

Be especially careful if you plan to visit coastal areas of Pawleys Island, Litchfield by the Sea, Murrells Inlet and North Myrtle Beach. Even without a tropical storm, these areas can flood during heavy rain and unusually high tides, which South Carolina is expected to experience this week.

Will my flight be canceled or delayed?

Canceled flights in Florida and bad weather in Myrtle Beach could cause delays. For the most up-to-date information, check your flight status on the Myrtle Beach Airport or your airlines website.

Will highways or streets close?

Find information about road closures on the South Carolina Department of Transportation website: 511sc.org.

Will the ocean be safe to swim in?

Even though Hurricane Franklin is passing hundreds of miles from land, it is expected to cause dangerous ocean conditions.

The National Weather Service in Wilmington, N.C., predicted life-threatening rip currents and rough surf all throughout the Grand Strand from Tuesday through Thursday. For Labor Day weekend, the NWS had not issued any guidance as of Monday afternoon.

When at the beach, check the flags at lifeguard stations  double red flags means you are not allowed to swim. Follow social media for the latest information  facebook.com/NWSWilmingtonNC on Facebook and @NWSWilmingtonNC on Instagram and X, formerly known as Twitter.
Poland and the Baltic nations of Latvia and Lithuania have promised to shut down their borders with Belarus if a "critical situation" occurs, Polish Interior Minister Mariusz Kaminski said at a summit in Warsaw on Aug. 28.

"We are determined on joint action if a critical situation arises," Kaminski said. "Regardless of whether it is on the Polish, Lithuanian, or Latvian borders, we will apply immediate retaliation. All border crossings that are open so far, both passenger and cargo, will be closed."

The interior ministers of Poland, Latvia, Lithuania, and Estonia met in Warsaw on Aug. 28 to discuss regional security issues.

At the beginning of August, Polish officials warned that full closure of the Belarusian border was possible in light of increased Wagner mercenary activity in the area.

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On Aug. 27, a Russian investigation confirmed the death of Wagner commander Yvgeny Prigozhin in a plane crash. Despite reports that Wagner soldiers were leaving Belarus in large numbers following the crash, Belarusian dictator Alexander Lukashenko claimed that Wagner would continue to maintain a strong presence in the country.

"We demanded of the Lukashenko regime that the Wagner Group immediately leave the territory of Belarus," Kaminski said.

He also said that the strategies discussed at the Aug. 28 meeting would "also apply to the border with Russia."

Poland and Lithuania share a formal border with Russia due to Kaliningrad Oblast, a Russian Federation exclave disconnected from the mainland.

Read also: Belarus Weekly: Lukashenko says Russian invasion of Ukraine through Belarus was unexpected

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
In a unanimous vote during Tuesday's meeting, the Jackson City Council approved Joseph Wade as the Chief of Police of the Jackson Police Department.

Wade has been serving as interim chief since June 1 after former chief James Davis retired. Wade has 28 years of service in the department, serving in various roles. The council chambers were filled with police officers who attended the meeting to support Wade.

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"I will be the chief for all wards. I will be the chief of North Jackson, Downtown Jackson, West Jackson and South Jackson. I will represent the city of Jackson well and with honor," Wade said before being confirmed.

Newly named permanent Jackson Police Chief Joseph Wade reenters the auditorium to applause in being announced as the new permanent police chief during a Tuesday press conference at the Jackson Police Department headquarters.

Wade thanked his family, the officers of the Jackson Police Department, the mayor, the city council and the citizens of Jackson, among others, for their support.

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The new chief said he will "attack violent crimes here in the City of Jackson" as applause rang out in the chambers. Wade also said he is focused on recruiting and retaining officers for the departments, as well as getting officers currently serving pay raises and more resources. He also said he plans on working with other law enforcement agencies at the county and federal levels and making the Jackson Police Department "the premier law enforcement agency in Mississippi."

"Not only has he demonstrated great success in his time in the interim position, prior to that he has demonstrated a commitment to the Jackson Police Department and more importantly the City of Jackson," Jackson Mayor Chokwe Antar Lumumba said before the vote.

Each of the council members expressed their support for Wade before voting. Ward 3 Councilman Kenneth Stokes did say he would like to see more focus on drug issues in the city. Ward 5 Councilman Vernon Hartley praised Wade's leadership while he was interim chief, especially the fact that there has been more officers joining and rejoining the department since he has taken over the department.

"It shows your leadership that morale is coming back. It shows your leadership that civility is coming back," Hartley said. "I always say anyone in uniform that has to be put in harms way, they have to have an excellent leader to inspire them."

Ward 7 Councilwoman asked Wade what his vision looks like for the police department moving forward. Wade said recruiting motivated officers is at the top of his list.

"We got to get the right people. We got to get highly motivated people. This job is not about power, it's not about ego, it's about a selfless service to our community," Wade said. "I want to ensure them (Jackson Police officers) and promise them that they have my support. I will praise them, honor them and commend them for the work that they do. I will not hide behind the chain of command  I will be available and accessible to the rank-and-file police officers."

This article originally appeared on Mississippi Clarion Ledger: Joseph Wade is the new head of the Jackson MS Police Department
Nadine Young, 61 vows to get justice for her granddaughter, Ta'Kiya Young, who was shot and killed by Blendon Township police outside a Kroger on Thursday northeast of Columbus, Ohio. Ta'Kiya was pregnant with a girl and due in November, according to family.

Body camera footage has yet to be released five days after officers with a township police department near Columbus, Ohio fatally shot a 21-year-old pregnant mother in a Kroger parking lot.

Officials in Blendon Township, located near the Westerville suburb northeast of Columbus, said they are still processing the footage and intend to show it to the woman's family before it is widely released to the public.

Ta'Kiya Young, 21, was shot and killed Thursday evening by Blendon Township police officers responding to reports that she had stolen liquor from the grocery store. Young was pregnant with her third child, who also did not survive the shooting.

Blendon Township Police Chief John Belford said in a video statement Friday afternoon that the officers involved are on paid administrative leave.

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Washington, D.C.: 16-year-old girl stabbed to death during dispute over McDonald's sauce: Reports

In the video, Belford also accused Young and several other people of stealing items from the Kroger store. Belford said the two officers were in the Kroger parking lot helping someone who was having a car problem when a store employee alerted them to Young, alleging she had taken multiple bottles of alcohol from the store without paying.

Store employees later told police there were multiple other people who had been allegedly stealing items, but they had fled in other vehicles.

Friends, family and activists gathered to protest the shooting of 21-year-old Ta'Kiya Young, who was shot and killed by Blendon Township police outside the Sunbury Road Kroger near Columbus on Thursday. Ta'Kiya was pregnant with a girl and due in November, according to family.

Young was already inside the car when the officers approached her four-door sedan, Belford said in the video. One officer was on the vehicle's driver's side and the other officer was in front of the vehicle, both giving Young more than a dozen verbal commands to exit the car and turn it off, Belford said.

Those commands were ignored, and Belford said Young instead accelerated directly at the officer in front of the vehicle, who fired a single gunshot through the windshield.

Belford said officers ran after the car for about 50 feet until it jumped the curb and crashed into a brick wall and columns outside a door to the grocery and near a walk-up pharmacy window. The car was locked, so officers broke the driver's window to to get Young out of the vehicle and begin providing medical aid.

A passerby, who is an emergency room doctor, also assisted police until paramedics arrived and transported Young Mount Carmel St. Ann's hospital, where she died from her injuries, Belford said.

Young, who is the mother of two sons, 6 and 3 years old, was pregnant with a daughter who was due in November, according to her family.

"Every loss of life is a tragedy," Belford said in the video. "The family of the woman who died is understandably upset. Ive personally spoken with a member of the family, and I will continue to keep them informed about whats happening."

Chief: processing body camera footage will take time

In his statement Friday, Belford said that processing the body camera footage will take time because of the redactions that are required to be made by Ohio law. Blendon Township is a small department without the staffing of agencies like the Columbus Division of Police that have a dedicated unit of multiple people who process records requests.

Blendon Township police also requested the Ohio Attorney General's Bureau of Criminal Investigation conduct an outside investigation of the shooting. The procedure is standard among the larger Columbus Division of Police and many other law enforcement agencies in the surrounding Franklin County when one of their officers kills or injures someone in a shooting.

In an updated statement at 5 p.m. on Monday, Belford explained that the process to release the bodycam video involves identifying which redactions must be made, getting approval of the redactions and confirming they comply with the law from legal counsel. The police agency also plans to give the video to the state investigating agency to ensure it won't interfere with its investigation.

"Blendon Township has a small staff, but we are still committed to abiding by Ohio public records law, which requires records like body camera video to be released in a reasonable amount of time," Belford said in the statement.

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'Shoplifting now equates with losing your life?'

Young's death sparked several peaceful vigils in her memory, as well as in honor of her unborn daughter.

Local activists and protest groups met at the Kroger on Friday night and again on Sunday evening to call for justice and accountability in the shooting.

At the Friday vigil, Malissa Thomas-St. Clair, the co-founder of anti-violence group Mothers of Murdered Columbus Children, told the Columbus Dispatch, part of the USA TODAY Network, that she knew Young personally as her elementary school teacher. Thomas-St. Clair said she remembers Young as tenacious and someone who worked through adversity in her life toward graduation from high school.

Malissa Thomas-St. Clair, co-founder of Mothers of Murdered Columbus Children, came out to protest the shooting of 21-year-old Ta'Kiya Young.

"Young people make mistakes, but because I make mistakes, I should learn from them and not die from them," she told The Dispatch. "When I'm hearing that shoplifting now equates with losing your life  and you're pregnant? That deserves outrage."

Meanwhile, more than two dozen family and friends gathered Friday night at Young's grandmother's home, where they lit candles in memory of Young and her unborn child.

Nadine Young, the grandmother of the slain woman, said the family is busy making funeral arrangements and building a support network for the mother's two young surviving sons. She said her granddaughter had a knack for bringing family together and that the police shooting has them scrambling into action.

Sandriana McBroom, 22, right, and Makhiya Mcbroom, 20, center, light candles that spell out "RIP Kiya" at a vigil held for their friend, Ta'Kiya Young, 21, who was shot and killed by police last week.

"We're all going to be rallying around (her sons), and be the village for them," Nadine Young told The Dispatch. "Taking care of them, getting them into school, and keeping them focused and not having them hate the police. I don't want them growing up like that."

Fraternal Order of Police: 'Guns not the only danger officers face'

In a Friday statement issued by Brian Steel, executive vice president of Fraternal Order of Police Capital City Lodge #9, said "guns are not the only danger officers face." He said vehicles are also deadly weapons when used with the intent of harm.

"But regardless of the circumstances, the death in this case is heartbreaking," Steel said. "The lodge extends its condolences to the family for its loss of this young woman."

Blendon Township also canceled a previously scheduled concert that was to be held in Ridgewood park on Saturday evening.

This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Ta'Kiya Young: Bodycam video unreleased in pregnant Ohio woman's death
HAVERSTRAW  Has anyone seen accused killer Eugene Palmer or know his whereabouts? The town police and FBI want information nearly 11 years after he was charged with killing his daughter-in-law.

As the leaves traditionally turn colors to greet the coming of autumn, Haverstraw police have issued their public request reminding people that Palmer is wanted for the shotgun killing of Tammy Palmer on Sept. 24, 2012.

Tammy Palmer was found dead at Palmer's Willow Grove Road compound of houses, bordering Stony Point and Harriman State Park. She had just returned to the compound after dropping her two children off at the school bus stop.

FBI officials announce that Eugene Palmer, who went on the run after allegedly killing his daughter-in-law, has been added to the agency's Ten Most Wanted Fugitive List May 29, 2019 at their offices in Rye.

Eugene Palmer: FBI video describes fugitive's deformed thumb, details killing of his kin

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Palmer then went to his sister's house down the road, told a niece he'd shot his daughter-in-law, and left money to pay his taxes.

He's not been seen since by the local authorities.

A family photo of Eugene Palmer, who has been charged in the shooting death of his daughter-in-law Tammy. Palmer, whose truck was found in Harriman State Park, less than one mile from the family property, has not been seen since the day of the shooting. His family continues to search the park for his body.

Police later found Palmer's truck hidden among the trees up a fire lane in the park nearly a mile from his property. Palmer, known as an outdoorsman, was a frequent hunter, fisherman, trapper and hiker who knew the landscape of the 47,527-acre park, including its caves, abandoned root cellars, and other hideouts amid its 200 miles of trails through the wilderness straddling Rockland and Orange counties.

Palmer's immediate family members have said they believe he died in the woods. His kin have noted he depended on medication for diabetes, a heart condition and other ailments that come with age. One of Palmer's sons and a friend have searched for his remains in the woods, including areas that contain rattlesnake dens.

Born in April 1939, Palmer would be 84 years old now.

Haverstraw police are not buying that Palmer died in the woods. Nor is the FBI. The bureau has offered a reward of $20,000 while two other agencies added an additional $10,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of Palmer.

Haverstraw Police Chief Peter Murphy speaks after the FBI announced that Eugene Palmer, who went on the run after allegedly killing his daughter-in-law, has been added to the agency's Ten Most Wanted Fugitive List May 29, 2019 at FBI offices in Rye.

"The Town of Haverstraw Police, along with their FBI and U.S. Marshal partners, have not forgotten this crime and have been continuously working on this case," the police said in a statement on Facebook.

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Haverstraw Police Capt. John Gould Jr. said the department constantly receives tips on possible locations where Palmer may be living. He said each tip is vetted and any plausible information is acted upon.

"During this investigation, evidence has been gathered leading us to believe that Eugene Palmer is alive," Gould said. "There is no reason for us to think that he is deceased.

"We believe now, and from the beginning of the investigation, that people are, have, and continue to assist him in eluding the police," he said.

Gould said detectives have interviewed Palmer's family members many times.

Palmer and his daughter-in-law had conflicts. She lived in a house with her husband, John, and their two children. The couple had been having marital problems, and Tammy Palmer had filed a restraining order against her husband. Police said Eugene Palmer became enraged that his son was banned from the family compound.

The home of John and Tammy Palmer in Haverstraw photographed March 24, 2013, the six-month anniversary of the shooting death of John's wife, Tammy, by Eugene Palmer, their father. Eugene Palmer, whose truck was found in Harriman State Park, less than one mile from the family property, has not been seen since the day of the shooting. His family continues to search the park for his body.

Grand jury indicts Palmer for murder

A Rockland grand jury issued an indictment charging Palmer with second-degree murder. A nationwide fugitive warrant has been issued for his arrest.

In 2019, the FBI placed Palmer on its iconic 10 Most Wanted List after earlier offering a reward of $20,000 for information on Palmer's whereabouts. Haverstraw and the U.S. Marshals Service had previously put up rewards of $5,000 each in the case. The television program "America's Most Wanted" featured the case.

The FBI and Haverstraw police have said Palmer, a fan of auto racing, has ties to Florida, upstate New York, and the Adirondacks. His medical issues could make him a frequent visitor to doctors' offices and healthcare facilities, the FBI said.

Haverstraw police Detective Michael Cruger has said detectives have more evidence that Palmer left the area than he didn't leave.

"We have not had one shred of evidence that leads us to believe that Eugene Palmer is dead," Cruger said.

Anyone with information about Palmer's whereabouts can call the FBI at 1-800-225-5324 or 212-384-1000, Haverstraw police detectives at 845-942-3730 or 845-354-1500 or the US Marshalls at 1-877-WANTED-2.

Steve Lieberman covers government, breaking news, courts, police, and investigations. Reach him at slieberm@lohud.com. Twitter: @lohudlegal.

Read more articles and bio. Our local coverage is only possible with support from our readers.

This article originally appeared on Rockland/Westchester Journal News: Eugene Palmer, one of FBI 10 most wanted, still sought for murder
UPDATE:

APD says they have identified the individual and have canceled the lookout.

ORIGINAL:

Atlanta Police Department is asking for your help in locating the parents of a young man who was found in northeast Atlanta Monday night.

APD said on Monday, officers responded to 810 N. Highland Ave. NE about a report of a criminal trespass.

[DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]

APD says when officers arrived at the location they made contact with a non-verbal, possibly autistic, young man.

The officers canvassed the area but did not locate the persons family or anyone who knew him.

Medical personnel responded to the scene to offer medical attention.

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TRENDING STORIES:

Investigators with APDs Special Victims Unit are seeking the publics help in identifying the young man and returning him to his family.

If anyone recognizes the young man in the photo or knows how to get into contact with his family, they are asked to contact 911, the Atlanta Police Departments Special Victims Unit at (404) 546-4260, or Crime Stoppers at (404) 577-TIPS (8477).

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IN OTHER NEWS:
Police launched an investigation after a forklift operator was seriously injured in an accident outside Terminal C at Boston Logan Airport on Tuesday afternoon.

Massachusetts State Police Detectives say a man suffered life-threatening injuries after part of a forklift struck a stationary structure, which caused the forklift to fall on top of the victim.

The worker, a subcontractor for JetBlue, was doing maintenance work for the airline near Gate C26, according to MassPort. There were no planes in the area at the time of the incident.

The man was rushed to Boston Medical Center, according to state police.

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The investigation is active an ongoing.

No further information is being released at this time.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.

Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts.

Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW
Weston Police are investigating an alleged armed robbery near a hiking area on Tuesday afternoon.

Police received a call around 12:30 p.m. from a man in his 30s who told officers he was walking along the Mass Central Rail Trail near Biogen in the area of Boston Post Road when he was robbed of his personal belongings and stabbed with a knife.

The victim was transported to a Boston hospital.

Police say the injury was minor and is expected to be released from the hospital soon.

Neighbors say theyre shocked by the violence in their quiet community.

I find it incredible, said Rutger Wiese who lives in Weston and uses the trail all the time. The trail is commonly used as a walking path.

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Very, very surprising yeah, said Matt Geyer who rides and walks this trail regularly.

Geyer says its normally a busy and safe place.

Very safe. Theres usually a lot of people out riding or walking and Ive never seen anybody who looks particularly shady or anything, said Geyer.

But that sense of tranquility was shattered.

There is no word on any suspects at this time as police say its very early in the investigation.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.

Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts.

Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW
Police and railway workers near the scene of the incident in Balderton last week - Danny Lawson/PA

A respected and popular police officer who was hit by a train while trying to rescue a man in distress on the tracks has died from his injuries, Nottinghamshire Police said.

Sgt Graham Saville, a response officer based at Newark police station in Nottinghamshire, was seriously hurt as he responded to concerns for the mans safety near Balderton last Thursday.

Police said a distressed man was found with severe injuries that were not believed to be life-threatening, and that Sgt Graham Saville had been hit by the train during attempts to help him.

The hugely respected officer was taken to the Queens Medical Centre in Nottingham. On Tuesday, police said the 46-year-old had died from his injuries with his family at his bedside.

Hugely respected and popular colleague

Kate Meynell, the Nottinghamshire Police Chief Constable, said: Today is a day of mourning for the entire police family. Graham was a hugely respected and popular colleague, and his death in the line of duty has come as an enormous shock to us all.

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Our hearts and deepest condolences go out to his family, and we will do everything we can to support them through this unimaginably devastating time.

She said it was testament to his bravery and dedication as a police officer that he was fatally injured while attempting to save another mans life and that his service and sacrifice will never be forgotten.

Chief Constable Meynell thanked other officers who attended the scene, some of whom gave immediate medical assistance as they waited for the ambulance, and said they were bring supported by a dedicated team.

Rishi Sunak, the Prime Minister, said: Im saddened to learn of the passing of Sgt Saville. It is a testament to his bravery that he died in the line of duty, and a terrible reminder of the work the police do every day to keep us safe.

Suella Braverman, the Home Secretary, wrote on social media: We owe our police officers an immense debt of gratitude for their bravery while protecting us all.

Chris Philp, the policing minister, posted: He selflessly made the ultimate sacrifice. We will remember him. Our thoughts are with Grahams family and colleagues.

An investigation into the incident, led by British Transport Police, is ongoing.

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In one clip from a video, a youth could be seen running through the streets with a machete - Oliver Quartly

The level of violence at the Notting Hill Carnival has become unacceptable and unsustainable the Metropolitan Police Federation has said.

A police officer was sexually assaulted and six others were bitten this year while footage has emerged of a youth running through the streets with a machete.

Video showed a gang of youths, many of whom were dressed in black and wearing balaclavas, fighting as Europes biggest street party descended into violence on its final day.

Two men are in hospital, one in a critical condition, following a spate of stabbings as the carnival drew to a close.

Rick Prior, vice chairman of the federation, said the levels of violence at the carnival in recent years had become unmanageable.

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He told The Telegraph: This level of violence is unacceptable and unsustainable. You cant have it that every single year come Tuesday morning were contemplating these types of injuries, this numbers of injuries and sexual assaults and stabbings. It really is awful.

Police have previously asked for the carnival to be moved - Chris Strickland

Mr Prior said he understood the significance of the carnival but added that moving the event elsewhere should be considered.

He added: Were a free society and, you know, protests and celebrations and carnivals are things where crime happens, and we have to accept that.

I just think the levels of violence and the levels of crime and the nature of the geographic layout of Notting Hill and with the amount of people that come to this carnival now it just facilitates people with nefarious intent.

As well as the assaults, Mr Prior said some officers had also been urinated on by people in upper floor windows.

Ade Adelekan, the deputy assistant commissioner who oversaw the policing operation, said it was regrettable that for a second year in a row, bank holiday Monday at the carnival had been marred by serious violence.

Mr Adelekan said that while the atmosphere for the majority of the weekend was largely positive the latter stages of the street party saw a series of violent incidents.

Forensic officers at the scene of a stabbing - George Cracknell Wright

In total there were eight stabbings on Monday in separate incidents and 275 arrests across the two days of the carnival for a range of offences.

The Metropolitan Police Federation said that 75 officers were assaulted, six were bitten, one was sexually assaulted and another is in hospital.

Mr Adelekan said that while nobody disputes the significance of carnival on Londons cultural calendar, we cannot overlook stabbings, sexual assaults and attacks on police officers.

Officers also seized a firearm during the event and other arrests for a raft of offences included possession of offensive weapons, assaults on police officers, possession of drugs and sexual offences.

The 29-year-old man who was stabbed is in a critical condition in hospital following the incident shortly after 9pm on Monday.

A 19-year-old man is also in a serious but stable condition in hospital after he was stabbed in Ladbroke Grove shortly before 8pm.

Nitrous oxide canisters collected after the carnival - SWNS

Last year, police called for the future of the Notting Hill Carnival to be reviewed after one person was murdered, six others were stabbed and dozens of officers assaulted in the first event since 2019.

Takayo Nembhard, a rap artist, was at the carnival with his sister and friends when he was killed after being stabbed in the groin.

In 2022, a total of 74 officers were injured, many as a result of assaults, and a female constable was sexually assaulted after becoming separated from her colleagues at the event.

An estimated two million people took to the streets of west London over the bank holiday as the carnival celebrated two landmark anniversaries. The introduction of sound systems and mass bands 50 years ago transformed it into a large-scale event and the docking of the Empire Windrush 75 years ago heralded mass immigration from the Caribbean.

The organisers issued a statement after the event, saying: We deplore all acts of violence, these people have nothing to do with Notting Hill Carnival and its values.

They added: We will continue to work hard with our partners to protect Notting Hill Carnival and the people who make it so special.

Possession of machete to carry two-year jail sentence

Possessing a machete or zombie knife with no practical use will carry a jail sentence of up to two years in jail under a crackdown to close loopholes in the law.

Machetes and knives that are designed to look intimidating and threatening will be made illegal under new legislation that is expected to be included in this Autumns Kings Speech.

The maximum sentence for anyone possessing, selling, manufacturing or importing the banned weapons will be increased from six months to two years, as will the maximum penalty for sales of knives to under 18s.

Police will also be given new powers to seize and destroy knives found on private premises if there are reasonable grounds to believe the blade would be used in a serious crime.

Under current laws, police cannot seize knives found during a search on a property, even if they had suspicions of criminal use.

The Government will also introduce a new offence for possession of bladed articles with the intention to endanger life or cause fear of violence. At present, offenders can only be prosecuted for carrying a weapon in public or threatening someone with one.

Possession of machete or zombie knife could also become an aggravating factor in any weapons offence, which would mean judges could give offenders longer sentence if they used them in any crime.

Policing minister Chris Philp said: One life lost to knife crime is one too many, and we must do all we can to stop the vile thugs who carry dangerous weapons from their campaign of intimidation and violence.

Zombie-style knives and machetes serve no other purpose but to inflate criminal egos and endanger lives. There is no reason to own these types of weapons.

That is why we are banning these knives and making sentencing more severe, so our communities can be reassured that this violent criminality will face the punishments they deserve, and lives will be saved.

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Rome  Pope Francis has again waded into controversy with remarks about Russia amid President Vladimir Putin's ongoing war in Ukraine. The pontiff drew condemnation with remarks delivered to a gathering of Russian Catholic youth on August 25, whom he urged to be proud of their heritage.

During a video conference with approximately 400 youth in St. Petersburg, Francis urged the youngsters not to "forget your heritage."

"You are heirs of the great Russia  the great Russia of saints, of kings, the great Russia of Peter the Great , Catherine II, the great, enlightened Russian Empire of so much culture, of so much humanity," he said. "Never give up this heritage."

Francis made the remarks spontaneously at the end of an hourlong video address in which he urged the young Russians to work toward peace.

Pope Francis holds his homily during the weekly General Audience in St. Peter's Square, June 28, 2023 in Vatican City, Vatican. / Credit: Simone Risoluti/Getty

"I wish you, young Russians, the vocation to be artisans of peace in the midst of so many conflicts, in the midst of so much polarization on all sides, which plague our world. I invite you to be sowers, to sow seeds of reconciliation, little seeds that in this winter of war will not sprout in the frozen ground for the time being, but will blossom in a future spring," he said.

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The pope's praise of Russia's imperialist history quickly drew criticism from Ukraine and elsewhere.

Archbishop Sviatoslav Shevchuk, the head of the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church, said in a statement that Francis' words exalting Peter the Great and Catherine II (better known as Catherine the Great) had caused "great pain and apprehension."

Saying the pope's remarks had referred to "the worst example of extreme Russian imperialism and nationalism," Shevchuk added: "We fear that these words will be understood by some as an encouragement of this nationalism and imperialism which is the real cause of the war in Ukraine."

Oleg Nikolenko, a spokesman for Ukraine's Foreign Ministry, said in a social media post that it was "very unfortunate that Russian grand-state ideas, which, in fact, are the cause of Russia's chronic aggression, knowingly or unknowingly, come from the pope's mouth, whose mission, in our understanding, is precisely to open the eyes of Russian youth to the disastrous course of the current Russian leadership."

Putin often alludes to Russia's imperial history to justify his invasion of Ukraine, and last year he compared himself to Peter the Great, who expanded the Russian empire by annexing several countries.

On Tuesday, the Vatican issued a statement clarifying the pope's comments, saying it was "clear from the context in which he pronounced them, the pope intended to encourage young people to preserve and promote what is positive in the great Russian cultural and spiritual heritage, and certainly not to exalt imperialist logics and government personalities, cited to indicate some historical periods of reference."

Meanwhile, at the Kremlin, Russian government spokesman Dmitry Peskov on Tuesday called Francis' words "very gratifying."

"The pontiff knows Russian history and this is very good," he said. "It has deep roots, and our heritage is not limited to Peter (the Great) or Catherine, it is much more ancient."

At virtually all of his public appearances since Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine on February 2022, Francis has consistently condemned Moscow's actions as morally unjust, barbaric, repugnant and sacrilegious. But he also suggested last year that NATO expansion could have provoked Russia's invasion, echoing another justification put forth from early on by the Kremlin.

In an effort to help mediate an end to the conflict, the pope appointed Cardinal Matteo Zuppi as his personal peace envoy this year. Zuppi has already travelled on the pope's behalf to Kyiv, Moscow and Washington.

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Pope Francis is under fire for recent comments where he appeared to praise the Russian empire in an address to Russian Catholic youths, sparking criticism from both state and religious leaders in Ukraine.

In a video of the end of the popes speech posted to a religious website in Moscow, Francis said, suddenly switching from his prepared speech in Spanish to Italian, Dont forget [your] heredity. You are heirs of the great Russia, the great Russia of the saints, of kings, according to a translation from Reuters.

Francis made reference to former Russian rulers Peter I and Catherine II, both known to be Russian imperialists who helped Russia expand into Europe. Last year, Russian president Vladimir Putin compared himself and Russias invasion of Ukraine to Peter the Greats conquests.

The great Russian empire, cultured, so much culture, so much humanity. You are the heirs of the great mother Russia. Go forward, Francis continued.

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Oleg Nikolenko, spokesperson for the Ukrainian Foreign Ministry, called out Franciss comments as imperialist propaganda.

It is with such imperialist propaganda, spiritual ties and the need to save great Mother Russia that the Kremlin justifies the killing of thousands of Ukrainian men and women and the destruction of hundreds of Ukrainian cities and villages, Nikolenko said in a translated post on Facebook.

Archbishop Sviatoslav Shevchuk, head of Ukraines Eastern Rite Catholic Church, said it is with great pain and concern to learn about Franciss comments. Shevchuk said Franciss comments about Peter I and Catherine II are the worst example of imperialism and extreme Russian nationalism.

There is a danger that these words can be perceived as support of nationalism and imperialism that caused the war in Ukraine today, Shevchuk wrote on Facebook. A war that brings death and destruction to our people on a daily basis.

He added that the popes comment contradict his science of peace.

The Vatican posted Franciss entire prepared speech but left out the impromptu comments Francis made at the end of the speech. Earlier in the speech, Francis urged the Russian Catholic youth to be artisans of peace and to sow the seeds of reconciliation.

Nexta, a media group in Belarus, called out Franciss speech, writing in a post on X, formerly known as Twitter, Pope #Francis called on the Russian youth to be proud of the Russian Empire, as well as the tyrants and organizers of aggressive wars, Peter I and Catherine II

By the way, the Catholics of Poland, Lithuania and Belarus raised uprisings three times against this enlightened empire.'

Francis has repeatedly denounced the war between Russia and Ukraine and recently tasked a leading Italian cardinal with a mission to pave paths to peace, in Ukraine. Ukrainian diplomats, however, have reportedly complained that Vatican leaders dont come down hard enough on Russia and its leader, according to a CBS News report.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
By Philip Pullella

VATICAN CITY (Reuters) - Pope Francis did not intend to glorify Russian imperialism when he extolled tsars that expanded the Russian empire, the Vatican said on Tuesday, after remarks last week that were criticised by Ukraine while welcomed by the Kremlin.

Francis had told Russian youths in the unscripted remarks on Friday to remember that they are the heirs of past tsars such as Peter I and Catherine II.

The two monarchs, both referred to as "the great" by historians, expanded Russia into a huge empire in the 17th and 18th centuries, including conquering parts of Ukraine. President Vladimir Putin invokes their legacies in justifying his invasion and annexation of Ukrainian territory last year.

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"The pope intended to encourage young people to preserve and promote all that is positive in the great Russian cultural and spiritual heritage, and certainly not to exalt imperialist logic and government personalities, (which he) mentioned to indicate some historical periods of reference," Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni said in a statement.

Francis had said: "You are heirs of the great Russia - the great Russia of the saints, of kings, the great Russia of Peter the Great, of Catherine II, the great Russian empire, cultured, so much culture, so much humanity. You are the heirs of the great mother Russia. Go forward."

Kyiv called the remarks "deeply regrettable".

"It is precisely with such imperialist propaganda, the 'spiritual ties' and the 'need' to save 'great Mother Russia' that the Kremlin justifies the killing of thousands of Ukrainians and the destruction of Ukrainian cities and villages," Oleg Nikolenko, spokesperson for the Ukrainian Foreign Ministry, said on Facebook.

Former Estonian President Toomas Hendrik Ilves, whose country was conquered by Russia under Peter I, called the pope's remarks "truly revolting", in a post on X, formerly known as Twitter.

Archbishop Sviatoslav Shevchuk, head of the Eastern Rite Catholic Church in Ukraine loyal to the pope, said in a statement that his the pontiff's words had caused "great pain and worry".

However, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov praised the remarks: "The pontiff knows Russian history and this is very good," he said.

"What the (Russian) state, activist groups, school and university teachers are doing now is carrying this heritage to our youth, reminding them of it," Peskov said. "And the fact that the pontiff sounds in unison with these efforts is very, very gratifying."

The Vatican embassy in Kyiv said in a statement that the pope was a "staunch opponent and critic of any form of imperialism or colonialism" and rejected what it described as media "interpretations" of the pope's comments.

Pope Francis has been an outspoken critic of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, but has occasionally angered Kyiv for unscripted remarks perceived as supporting Moscow's narrative.

Kyiv summoned the Vatican ambassador last year after the pope described Darya Dugina, a Russian ultra-nationalist killed in a car bomb near Moscow, as an innocent victim of the war.

Putin has long sought to deny that Ukraine has a tradition of statehood and says Russians and Ukrainians are one people. Ukrainian and Western scholars call this a false account aimed at erasing Ukraine's thousand-year history.

(Reporting by Philip Pullella and Alvise Armellini, additional reporting by Guy Faulconbridge and Mark Trevelyan; Editing by Peter Graff)
The potential relocation of a more than 100 year old World War I doughboy statue from a busy intersection in downtown Monticello is giving local residents and elected officials considerable heartburn.

Although its not clear if or when the move would happen, two magistrates said hundreds of residents have told them they dont want the doughboy moved, and the commander of a veterans group said some members have talked of starting a petition against moving it.

Magistrates Jeff Dishman and Jonathan Dobbs said they would favor fighting in court to keep the statue in place if it comes to that.

Its an iconic figure thats been there for a hundred years in the middle of our downtown, Dobbs said.

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The potential for the doughboy  the nickname for American soldiers in the war  to be moved came up as part of a project to improve a section of east KY 92 near downtown, where it is called Michigan Avenue.

The road intersects Main Street at a right angle, making it difficult for large trucks to make the tight, 90-degree turn.

The Spirit of the American Doughboy, a statue by E. M. Viquesney, stands in downtown Monticello, Ky., on Wednesday, Aug. 9, 2023.

Trucks have hit a bank and a drug store on the corners of Michigan Avenue where it meets Main Street, said state Rep. Ken Upchurch.

Its increasingly become a problem, said Upchurch, a Republican from Monticello who chairs the House budget subcommittee on transportation. He has pushed the project to realign KY 92 in order to improve traffic flow.

The doughboy statue is a block away from the Main Street-Michigan Avenue intersection, but fixing the problem would involve re-routing Michigan Avenue to enter Main Street where the statue sits.

Its not set in stone that the project will require moving the statue, local and state officials said.

The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet is developing and evaluating several alternatives, and has not chosen a design for the project, said spokeswoman Amber Hale.

An artists rendering shows what a new location for a World War I doughboy statue could look like.

The cabinet is working with the community to find an acceptable solution, Hale said.

The options for moving the statue include putting it in front of the nearby judicial center, where there are other war memorials; putting it in a corner of the square near where it is now; or moving it to a vacant lot less than a block away on Main Street, next to the county courthouse.

That lot was left open after a fire destroyed a building.

The Downtown Monticello Foundation bought the lot and cleaned it up as part of its effort to beautify downtown, said Rhett Ramsey, an attorney and member of the foundation board.

Honoring soldiers

Residents of Monticello and Wayne County started considering a way to honor local World War I soldiers not long after Allied forces, including the U.S., signed an armistice with Germany to halt fighting on Nov. 11, 1918, according to a book by the late Harlan Ogle, a local minister and historian.

A committee ultimately chose a plan to put a statue of a doughboy on a granite pedestal in a small park in the middle of town, with a plaque containing the names of local soldiers.

There were 10 soldiers from Wayne County killed in combat. Another 13 died during the war from illness or other causes, and 45 were wounded.

The base around a World War I doughboy statue in downtown Monticello was larger at one time.

Rose Shearer, mother of Lee Shearer, the first Wayne County soldier killed in the war, turned the first shovel of dirt for the memorial in November 1922, according to Ogles book, which relied in large part on articles from the local newspaper, the Wayne County Outlook.

Week by week, the local paper chronicled efforts by the American Legion, local businesses, the Womens Club and school children to raise $2,000 in donations to pay for the statue and base, according to Ogles book.

Every red blooded citizen of Wayne County should contribute something. If they do not, they can never really look at this statue without their conscience saying, they stuck by you, but you failed them, one fundraising appeal in the newspaper said.

An estimated 3,500 people crowded the dedication of the memorial on April 8, 1923, a cold, windy Sunday, Ogle wrote.

The statue chosen was a design called The Spirit of the American Doughboy, made from bronze and depicting a soldier carrying a rifle and moving forward, his right arm raised to throw a grenade.

E.M. Viquesney, an artist and sculptor from Indiana, copyrighted the design after the war and marketed it across the country.

A statue in downtown Monticello, Ky., honors those who served in World War I. The statue is located at the intersection of Main Street and Columbia Avenue.

Tour of Honor, which promotes motorcycle rides to war memorials around the country to honor veterans and raise money for charity, includes 12 WWI doughboy statues in Kentucky in its database.

Of those, eight are the Viquesney design. The others are in Grayson, Harlan, Jamestown, Liberty, Morehead, Pikeville and Winchester, according to Tour of Honor.

The organization says there are doughboy statues of other designs in West Liberty, Paducah, Paintsville and Springfield.

The marble statue in West Liberty was shattered when a tornado with winds of 140 miles per hours hit the city in March 2012.

Sculptors reassembled the pieces and put the statue back in place.

Centerpiece of our community

The size of the plaza around the Monticello doughboy was previously reduced to accommodate traffic flow, but veterans and others have fought prior efforts to move it out of the central square.

A group sued in 1976 after the city council approved a resolution to move the statue, according to court records Dishman and Dobbs provided.

Wayne County veterans of World War I are honored by a statue in downtown Monticello, Ky.

Judge Leonard E. Wilson noted the city was confronted with traffic problems, but ruled that the spot where the doughboy stands  which had been the site of county courthouses in the early 1800s  was owned by the county.

Wilson barred the city from moving it.

Jeff Morgan, commander of the local chapter of the Disabled American Veterans (DAV), said the organization has not taken a position on moving the doughboy during the current iteration of the issue.

He thinks most members would favor leaving the statue in place, however, and some have talked of starting a petition against moving the statue.

Morgan said he can see pros and cons to moving the statue, but personally would like to see it stay in the square. One concern is that it could be damaged during a move, he said.

State Rep. Ken Upchurch, a Republican from Monticello, represents Wayne and McCreary counties and part of Pulaski County.

But Upchurch said its hard for people to visit the doughboy because it is in the middle of a busy intesection, and it creates an impediment to traffic flow.

You just cant have a highway system that has something like that in the middle of it, Upchurch said.

Leaving the doughboy in the intersection creates a risk it will be hit by a car or truck, Upchurch said.

A similar Viquesney doughboy statue in the center of Jamestown, in adjoining Russell County, was hit by an alleged drunk driver in 2008 and knocked off its pedestal. It was badly damaged and replaced with a duplicate.

Upchurch said he would favor moving the Monticello statue if it could be in a place of prominence where people could visit it more easily and pay their respects.

Its a way to preserve and teach history, he said.

Upchurch said most of the people he has heard from about the issue favor moving the doughboy out of the intersection.

However, Dobbs and Dishman said among the people who have contacted them, sentiment against moving the doughboy is overwhelming.

Jonathan Dobbs is a magistrate in Wayne County, Ky.

Ive had no positive comments about moving the doughboy, Dobbs said.

The issue blew up after Upchurch met with the DAV earlier this summer and discussed options for moving the statue, Dishman said.

Dishman has heard more complaints about potentially moving the statue than hes heard on any issue in his nearly 15 years on fiscal court, including a 2020 vote on legalizing alcohol sales, he said.

Dishman and Dobbs said they support the project to realign Michigan Avenue, but dont want to see the doughboy statue moved.

Wayne County Magistrate Jeff Dishman is photographed in Monticello, Ky., on Wednesday, Aug. 9, 2023.

Thats the centerpiece of our community, Dishman said.

Opponents of moving the statue also argue it is not a significant problem in traffic flow.

County Attorney Tom Simmons said there are heavy feelings on both sides of the issue.

Hopefully we can just work this out and make everyone satisfied, he said.
A student works on his computer at the Boys and Girls Club of Larimer County Fort Collins Club in Fort Collins on Friday, Sept. 18, 2020. Poudre School District partnered with the Boys and Girls Club, as well as other community groups, to provide in-person support during remote learning for students who were the most in need during the pandemic.

Poudre School District students continue to score higher on assessment tests than their peers across the state and are making a strong recovery from learning losses that happened during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Assessment test data from the spring of 2023 released recently by the Colorado Department of Education shows PSD outperforming the state average by double-digit percentages in all subjects and grade levels in the CMAS, PSAT and SAT.

Average test scores in PSD lag a bit behind their pre-pandemic levels in most areas, although the gap is closing at a rate equal to or exceeding that of the average Colorado student. PSD students have more than made up their COVID-19 learning losses in eight of the 22 areas where comparable data is available for 2019  the last year of full testing prior to the pandemic  and 2023. At the state level, average scores for 2023 were lower than in 2019 in all but three areas and nearly equivalent in two others.

Here's a look at the data.

Where PSD students are making the quickest post-pandemic gains

The areas where PSD students had higher average scores in 2023 than 2019 were:

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Third and seventh grade English language arts

Ninth and 10th grade evidence-based reading and writing

Ninth and 10th grade math

Eighth and 11th grade science

Statewide, scores in 2023 were higher than 2019 in:

Fifth grade math

11th grade science

11th grade evidence-based reading and writing

Learning loss in math during COVID-19 was more severe, nationally, across the state and in PSD. But that gap is closing, too, with 49.5% of the districts students in grades 3-7 meeting or exceeding expectations for their grade level in CMAS testing this spring, compared to 52% in 2019. For comparison, the state average was 32.9% this spring and 34.7% in 2019.

Statewide scores were nearly equivalent in sixth grade English language arts and eighth grade science.

Statewide, districtwide, we did see a drop in our achievement levels after COVID, and that is a surprise to nobody, said Susan Thomas, PSDs assessment coordinator. But something weve seen in our districtwide data is that our achievement levels are recovering.

Four PSD elementary schools  Laurel, ODea, Riffenburgh and Shepardson  and Lesher Middle School all had higher CMAS scores in both English language arts and math in 2023 than in 2019, district communications coordinator Emily Shockley said.

The PSAT and SAT tests taken by high school students have shown similar results, with PSD students basically at or slightly ahead of where they were in 2019  the last year of statewide testing that was not canceled or modified because of COVID-19. The percentage of PSD ninth and 10th graders meeting or exceeding expectations for college readiness in math this spring was higher than in 2019 and more than 20 percentage points above the state averages.

PSD students also performed better this spring than in 2019 at both the eighth and 11th grade levels in the CMAS science assessment, topping the state average by 25 and 20 percentage points, respectively. Results for individual students are available to the students and their parents or guardians through the district's ParentVUE platform.

Why are PSD students rebounding from COVID learning loss so quickly?

District officials cant pinpoint a specific reason PSDs recovery appears to be outpacing the state but instead cited a number of factors they believe played a role:

Money from a 2010 bond approved by voters covered the cost of issuing a laptop for the school year to every high school and middle school student.

Staff at secondary schools and some elementary schools were already using Google Classrooms and other online instructional platforms.

Students and staff were already communicating regularly with one another through their district email accounts at the secondary level, and elementary school students, staff and parents who werent already doing so were quickly taught how.

Federal and state COVID-19 relief funds were used to immediately purchase laptops, tablets, mobile Wi-Fi hotspots and other devices, as needed, for students in preschool through eighth grade, with an emphasis placed on providing whatever additional technology was best for integrated services students with special needs, said Madeline Noblett, PSDs chief information officer.

PSD also equipped two vehicles to provide mobile wireless internet signals in areas where students did not otherwise have service until the city of Fort Collins, Larimer County and local internet providers were able to provide more stable service in those neighborhoods.

Remote learning support centers were established, mostly in gymnasiums, where students could get breakfast and lunch for free, have reliable internet service and receive assistance, as needed, from PSD teachers, paraprofessionals and volunteers from the local business community.

A second-grader at Linton Elementary School, goes through his packet with his teacher as students pick up their laptops and materials for the first quarter at Linton Elementary School in Fort Collins on Monday, Aug. 24, 2020.

We dont know exactly why our students did better than others in the state during the pandemic, Noblett said. But I think it was many efforts, by many people, a lot of persistence and a lot of folks saying, Hey, we cannot let our kids suffer at the hands of this pandemic, and we need to do everything we can. 

Although PSD no longer provides every elementary school student with a laptop or tablet for the school year, each school still has a supply of those devices, as well as mobile Wi-Fi hotspots, that can be checked out for learning needs, she said.

What to know about how testing works, how PSD uses that data

The English language arts (and Spanish language arts for third and fourth graders who chose that option) and math portions of the Colorado Measures of Academic Success, or CMAS, are taken by all Colorado public-school students in grades 3-8. The science portion is only taken by fifth, eighth and 11th graders. PSD students did not take assessment tests in the spring of 2020, and testing was spotty in 2021 with third, fifth and seventh graders only taking the English language arts portion of the CMAS while fourth, sixth and eighth graders only took the math portion, Thomas said.

Testing schedules returned to normal in 2022, providing a baseline to assess student growth from the 2023 results for the first time since 2019, said Dwayne Schmitz, PSDs chief institutional effectiveness officer.

Assessment data helps teachers tailor instruction to improve student performance and helps schools build plans for improvement as students return to school, Shockley wrote in a news release. Staff training, updated curriculum and paying attention to students academic and social-emotional needs also help ensure that PSD remains a high-performing, high-growth school district.

Schmitz, working with the Colorado Department of Education, helped create Colorados student-growth model thats now in use in all 50 states and by many of the national curriculum vendors. Students are statistically placed in cohorts with others across the state based on their assessment and test scores over the previous three years and then given an individual growth score each year for comparison to the median performance of that cohort, he explained.

Average growth is represented by the 50th percentile, so students scoring above 50 are exceeding the median and those below 50 are lagging.

Its awesome, because it really does tell you what mom and dad want to know, Schmitz said. They want to know two things: Where is my kid compared to other kids in the same grade level? And, are they climbing quicker, staying steady or are they declining over time? The combination of those two things answers a lot of questions about how they are doing and should I be intervening like this or like that. That model is simple to interpret, and its meaningful.

Laurel Elementary School fifth-graders walk through a human tunnel of students giving them high-fives during the school's fifth-grade sendoff at the school Friday, May 26, 2023.

School growth rates are based on the median growth percentile of its students, and two-thirds of PSDs elementary schools were at 50 or higher in data from the 2023 assessments that was shared with districts earlier this month, Shockley said.

PSDs middle schools were right on the median, with half at or above the 50th percentile, she said.

Districtwide, PSDs median growth percentile for English language arts was 57 at the elementary school level and 50 at the middle school level. The districts median growth percentile in math across grades 3-8 was 53, Thomas said.

Our already high-achieving students are doing well and growing more, PSD Superintendent Brian Kingsley said in the news release. This is exciting news. It doesnt mean our work stops here. Our ultimate goal is to ensure every student succeeds. We will continue to work toward that goal through steps like rolling out our new elementary literacy curriculum this fall and making sure all students graduate with options.

Reporter Kelly Lyell covers education, breaking news, some sports and other topics of interest for the Coloradoan. Contact him at kellylyell@coloradoan.com, twitter.com/KellyLyell or facebook.com/KellyLyell.news.

This article originally appeared on Fort Collins Coloradoan: PSD students outpace Colorado in recovery from pandemic learning loss
WASHINGTON (AP)  President Joe Biden hosted his Costa Rican counterpart, Rodrigo Chaves , at the White House on Tuesday, discussing ways to strengthen an agreement between the two countries on possible legal pathways for the increasing numbers of Central American migrants arriving to the U.S. southern border.

The two talked about deepening U.S.-Costa Rica trade tries, creating new jobs and advancing democracy in addition to promoting a more orderly immigration process. Chaves nation has emerged as an immigration hotspot, as migrants increasingly travel through the dangerous Darien Gap from Colombia into Central America and north into Costa Rica.

Sitting down for the meeting in the Oval Office, Biden thanked Chaves for his leadership in helping meet migration challenges that we face every single day, and said that one of his key objectives was deepening security cooperation between their countries, including on organized crime.

Our nations are not only united by the challenges we face but, what Ive found Mr. President, were united by the vision we share, Biden said. A vision for a future of greater opportunity and freedom and equality and, quite frankly, dignity  dignity for all our people.

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In June, Costa Rica and the U.S. agreed to open potential legal pathways to the United States for some of the Nicaraguan and Venezuelan migrants who are among the 240,000 asylum seekers in the Central American nation. Last year, Nicaraguans accounted for nine out of 10 applicants.

Chaves said in December the policies were being abused by people looking only to come work and then leave, and the policies would be tightened. As an alternative, officials offered a two-year work permit for Nicaraguans, Venezuelans and Cubans in exchange for dropping their longer-term asylum cases.

The agreement was aimed at reducing the pressure on Costa Ricas overwhelmed asylum system and heading off asylum seekers who could give up on the slow process in Costa Rica, and instead set off for the U.S.-Mexico border.

The U.S. is grappling with increasing numbers of migrants to the U.S.-Mexico border and clamped down on illegal crossings while offering expanded pathways following the end of pandemic-era restrictions at the border.

Chaves said at the start of Tuesday's meeting that he agreed with Bidens vision where prosperity should be shared widely but that we have challenges to that sharing of prosperity, including security.

Costa Rica has been, and shall remain, one of the strongest allies in the world regarding your economic and security interests that are ours, Chaves said.

Home to roughly 5 million people, Costa Rica is a popular destination for U.S. tourists but has faced increasing crime and murder -- blamed largely on violence related to drug trafficking. The nation, once a passthrough for drugs moving from South America to the U.S., is increasingly becoming an important hub  and theres a growing domestic market, too. Chaves has promised an increase in police presence.

Speaking to reporters after the meeting, Chaves said the discussion lasted about an hour and 15 minutes and was very productive.

We talked about immigration. We talked about the importance of understanding the nature of this phenomenon and managing it while we find solutions to the structural problems that are causing this migration: the problem of poverty, the lack of communities, Chaves said. This is going to take some time to solve, without a doubt. But, in the meantime, we have to mange the excessive abuses, particularly those that are happening in the Darien Gap heading north and Costa Rica."

He did not directly answer a question about whether Costa Rica would consider closing parts of its border with Panama in an attempt to slow the flow of migrants, but said that the goal should be managing migration and that some of the people heading north had legitimate reasons for leaving their home countries.

Chaves said he and Biden also discussed trade, including ways for the U.S. to deepen its commercial relationships in Costa Rica and across Latin America. Since being elected last year, Chaves has expressed interest in Costa Rica joining the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement.

The Biden administration has championed Costa Rica as a stable democracy at a time when threats to it have been on the rise in parts of Latin America. In March, the U.S. co-hosted the second Summit for Democracy with Costa Rica, as well as South Korea, the Netherlands and Zambia.

Asked after his meeting with Biden about the political turmoil in Guatemala, Chaves said he'd been distracted traveling in Washington and needed to discuss the situation more fully with his foreign minister but added, We care about democracy.

White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said before the meeting that one thing you'll see is an even closer partnership between the two countries.
Democrats are vying to succeed progressive Rep. David Cicilline in a Rhode Island special election next week. The question is what kind of Democrat will replace him.

What started as a sleepy primary in the political doldrums of summer has morphed into a fight that has attracted factions of the Democratic Party in Washington backing different candidates. One candidate is endorsed by the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, another by the Congressional Black Caucus and the third by the Congressional Progressive Caucus as well as Sen. Bernie Sanders.

The seat is safely Democratic, virtually ensuring that the Sept. 5 primary winner will take the seat. Cicillines resignation to run the Rhode Island Foundation was a surprise, coming just two months into the new term. With the Democratic Party mostly united in Congress behind Joe Biden, the Rhode Island contest offers a rare glimpse of infighting between powerful arms of the party. Some 13 candidates are running.

Rhode Island politics is a lot like a crowded mall parking lot where a space just opened up and theres a dozen cars circling for it, said Rich Luchette, a political strategist who worked for Cicilline for almost 10 years. And so it's really just been sort of this mad dash everybody, and their brother, and their sister, and their cousins looking to get elected to the House and jumping into the race.

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Though the field is extraordinarily crowded, it's shaping up as a three-person race. The leading Democratic candidates are Lt. Gov. Sabina Matos , backed by the Hispanic Caucus; progressive former state legislator Aaron Regunberg , who has earned Sanders' endorsement; and Biden White House alum Gabe Amo, who has the Black Caucus' backing.

The Congressional Hispanic Caucus has spent about $400,000 to boost Matos, the only current statewide officeholder in the race. She was viewed as an early frontrunner but has been dogged by an ongoing scandal about how she made the ballot.

A candidate needs just 500 signatures to get on the ballot in Rhode Island. Matos campaign submitted 1,285, but almost half were deemed ineligible  some had signatures of dead people and others appeared to be forged .





The state Board of Elections reviewed the matter but determined that Matos qualified for the ballot after board member Randall Jackvony asked his colleagues to do an additional review of the signatures to quell any fears about the democratic process.

When there's a vacuum of information, they fill it in with whatever story they want to, Jackvony said. It was really important to me, and clearly to other members of the board, that we had a public discussion about this so everybody could hear what our thinking was.

But the state attorney general is still investigating the signature controversy, which sent a jolt through what had been an otherwise uneventful primary.

The latest internal poll from the Amo campaign now shows Regunberg leading the field with Matos in third a major shift from before the scandal when polling showed Matos at the top of the pack. Theres been limited public polling in the race.

Regunberg is a progressive with the backing of Sanders, the Working Families Party and the Congressional Progressive Caucus. Regunberg served in the state Legislature from 2015 to 2018 and came within 3,000 votes of winning a primary race for lieutenant governor in 2018.

We think there's a lot of energy for a strong, progressive candidate, Regunberg told POLITICO. David Cicilline helped lead the Congressional Progressive Caucus and we appreciate that kind of leadership in this district and think we need to continue it.

Regunberg takes the lead after polling in second place behind Matos, according to a poll from before the signature scandal this summer from the Matos campaign . And hes raised $470,00 compared with her $338,000, according to the latest financial disclosures which cover through June 30.

But his campaign has also faced controversy.

Regunberg has criticized the role of money in politics and the wealthy donors behind it. But his father-in-law, a top executive at investment firm Janus Henderson, started a super PAC on his behalf, investing $125,000 into Progress Rhode Island. It so far spent more than $100,000 on direct mail, printing and research  all crucial elements for a campaign getting an edge in a low-turnout election.

Its blatantly hypocritical: the fact that he's out there campaigning against super PACs and his father-in-law is bankrolling one to benefit him, Luchette said of the PAC.

Matos filed a complaint with the FEC alleging illegal coordination between the PAC and his campaign. Regunberg denies any wrongdoing or hypocrisy. And he hasnt lost the support of any progressive groups or elected officials since the PAC's existence became publicly known.

The Congressional Black Caucus, meanwhile, is backing Amo, who was most recently a staffer in the Biden White House as a liaison to state and local governments in the Office of Intergovernmental Affairs.

Amo is a first-time candidate who is leaning into his government experience, which include jobs in Rhode Island and Washington. Hes raised almost $463,000 and been boosted by about $50,000 in outside spending from Democrats Serve, a hybrid PAC that last cycle supported moderate Democrats Rep. Annie Kuster (N.H.) and Josh Riley, an unsuccessful candidate from New York.

Amo is also endorsed by former White House chief of staff Ron Klain, a former colleague of Amos. But in an election expected to have low turnout divided among a crowded field, a relatively unknown bureaucrat like Klain wont animate voters the same way a rally with Sanders does  even as the endorsement helps him lean into his Washington experience.

I am trying not only to do the organizing, not only on TV through the end of the cycle, but I'm also seeking to lead with the work that we have ahead, Amo said in an interview, highlighting two recent policy-focused press conferences.

The race will likely come down to name ID and the strength of a candidates get-out-the-vote effort.

This race will be determined by very old school, primary ground game rules, identifying your support and making sure that they get out on Election Day, McNamara said.
(Bloomberg) -- Coming soon: Sign up for the India Edition newsletter by Menaka Doshi  an insider's guide to the emerging economic powerhouse, and the billionaires and businesses behind its rise, delivered weekly.

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President Vladimir Putin touted Russias close ties with India in a phone call with Prime Minister Narendra Modi as world leaders prepare to gather in New Delhi next week for the Group of 20 summit.

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Relations between the countries are developing progressively in the spirit of a specially privileged strategic partnership, according to a statement from the Kremlin on Monday. Both nations plan to carry out large-scale energy projects and expand transport and logistics infrastructure, the statement said.

Indias readout of the meeting avoided any characterization of the relationship, mentioning only that Putin confirmed Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov would attend the summit on behalf of Russia. It also said the leaders exchanged views on global issues, including the BRICS summit in South Africa last week  a meeting Putin also didnt attend in person, in part because of the risk he would be arrested for alleged war crimes under a warrant issued by the International Criminal Court.

The Kremlin earlier said Putin is too busy to attend the G-20 summit and his main focus for now is overseeing Russias war in Ukraine, which has gone on for more than a year.

Since Russias invasion of Ukraine, India has emerged as one of the biggest swing nations. It has maintained close ties with the US but abstained from votes at the United Nations to condemn the war and avoided joining US-led sanctions against Russia, which remains a major supplier of weapons and cheap energy.

The language over Russias war in Ukraine will again be a hot topic at the G-20 summit. Its unclear if Modi can broker a compromise similar to the one forged by Indonesia last November, particularly as tensions remain high between India and China  one of Russias biggest diplomatic brokers.

Although Putin didnt attend BRICS in person, he still joined the meetings via video link. Russia said he discussed with Modi the agreement to expand membership beyond Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa, adding that the move would boost the blocs influence in world affairs.

The push for expansion was largely driven by China, but had Russia and South Africas support. India remains concerned a bigger BRICS would transform the group into a mouthpiece for China, while Brazil was worried about alienating the West.

How BRICS Became a Club That Others Want to Join: QuickTake

Putin will have more visibility on the international stage next year when Russia takes on the role of BRICS chair. He has rarely left Russia since the February 2022 invasion of Ukraine, which sparked a wave of international condemnation and sanctions by the US and its partners.

(Adds detail from paragraph four on Putin focusing on Russias war in Ukraine.)

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Russian dictator Vladimir Putin is not to appear at the funeral of Yevgeny Prigozhin , the leader of the private military company Wagner, Kremlins spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said, quoted by the Russian state news agency RIA Novosti.

Peskov also mentioned that the Kremlin does not possess specific details about the funeral arrangements. Previously, Peskov had stated that there was currently no definitive answer to whether President Putin would attend the funeral. The decision regarding the format of Prigozhins funeral, he added, is always reached in consultation with family members, and is based on their preferences.

Read also: Prigozhin likely killed over control of Wagners Africa business  Bellingcat

Plane Crash involving Prigozhin: What We Know

A crash involving an Embraer Legacy 600 aircraft took place in Russias Tver Oblast on Aug. 23. The Federal Air Transport Agency (Rosaviatsia) confirmed that among the passengers on board were Yevgeny Prigozhin, the leader of the Wagner mercenary company, and his right-hand man Dmitry Utkin.

NV

According to Rosaviatsia, there were a total of ten individuals on board  seven passengers (Wagner PMC fighters) and three crew members.

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The aviation incident occurred exactly two months after a mutiny by the Wagner mercenaries.

Read also: Putin-Prigozhin meeting after coup attempt a new development, Washington says

Among the leading theories surrounding the crash of the Embraer Legacy 600 with Prigozhin on board are suggestions of an in-flight explosion and a strike by a missile launched from the ground.

Putin, when commenting on the potential assassination of Prigozhin on Aug. 24, referred to Prigozhin in past tense and remarked that he had led a complicated life.

Read also: Russian dictator said to have ordered warlord Prigozhins elimination, but amnesty for Wagnerites  media

On Aug. 27, the Investigative Committee of Russia formally officially confirmed that Prigozhin and his close associate Utkin had lost their lives as a consequence of the plane crash in Tver Oblast.

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Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
Russian President Vladimir Putin does not plan to attend the funeral of former Wagner Group leader Yevgeny Prigozhin , who died in a plane crash last week after leading a short-lived rebellion against top Russian military leaders this summer, the Kremlin said Tuesday.

Some Russian news outlets reported Prigozhins funeral could be as early as Tuesday. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov told reporters, however, he would not comment on the timing or location of Prigozhins burial.

The presidents presence is not planned, Peskov told reporters Tuesday, per The Washington Post. We do not have any information about the funeral. After all, the decision on this matter is made by family and friends.

Prigozhin, who had once been a Putin ally, died in a plane crash last week along with nine other people, including Prigozhins right-hand man, Dmitry Utkin, and Wagners logistics chief, Valery Chekalov.

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A Russian investigation concluded on Sunday the DNA of those on board matched the 10 individuals listed on the flight manifest, including Prigozhin.

U.S. officials previously said they believed the plane exploded from an internal bomb, which they said was consistent with Putins long history of trying to silence his critics.

The Kremlin adamantly denied those accusations and accused the West of perpetuating absolute lies.

Putin on Friday commented on his complicated relationship with Prigozhin, saying the mercenary leader had a difficult fate and made serious mistakes in life.

Putin added, however, that Prigozhin achieved the necessary results in his life, both for himself and when I asked him to do so for the common goal.

A funeral was reportedly held at St. Petersburgs Northern Cemetery for Chekalov. The citys Fontanka news outlet said the funeral for Prigozhin could be held at Serafimovskoye cemetary, which was used for high-profile burials, but no service was seen on Tuesday.

The Associated Press contributed.

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ST PETERSBURG, Russia (Reuters) - The funeral of Russian mercenary chief Yevgeny Prigozhin , who was killed in a plane crash last week, was held privately at a cemetery on the outskirts of his hometown St Petersburg, his press service said on Tuesday.

"The farewell to Yevgeny Viktorovich took place in a closed format. Those who wish to say goodbye may visit Porokhovskoye cemetery," it said in a short post on Telegram, accompanied by a photo of Prigozhin.

Secrecy had surrounded the funeral arrangements for Prigozhin, who was killed in a plane crash on Aug. 23, two months to the day since staging a mutiny in the biggest challenge to President Vladimir Putin 's rule since he rose to power in 1999.

The Kremlin had said earlier that Putin would not attend the funeral.

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Two other top Wagner figures, four Prigozhin bodyguards and three crew members were also killed when his Embraer Legacy 600 private jet crashed north of Moscow.

(Writing by Mark Trevelyan; Editing by Jon Boyle)
Washington  Federal investigators took down a criminal ransomware network that likely accounted for hundreds of millions of dollars in damage over the course of its existence, the Justice Department announced Tuesday.

The FBI and international partners disrupted the Qakbot botnet  a grouping of computers infected by a malware program that was used to carry out the cyberattacks  and are now working to disable the program on thousands of victim computers, law enforcement officials said.

Dubbed "Operation Duck Hunt," the effort to take down the botnet system also seized nearly $9 million in cryptocurrency that was collected in criminal ransomware campaigns.

Qakbot's victims totaled 700,000, according to the Justice Department, with approximately 200,000 located in the U.S. Small businesses, healthcare providers and government agencies including a defense manufacturer base in Maryland were harmed by attacks linked to the network.

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Investigators say Qakbot is a notorious and widely-used initial access broker that has been used by illicit actors across the globe to hold computer systems hostage until they're paid off by victims. The botnet generally gains access to devices through spam emails that have malicious links embedded in the messages.

Groups like Conti and REvil  the latter of which launched a cyber attack against American meat company JBS world's largest meat processing company in 2021  used Qakbot to gain access to infected computers and then used that access to wage ransomware campaigns. These criminal groups were likely affected by the recent FBI operation, officials said.

Botnets like the one targeted by the FBI stealthily take control of a computer and work in a coordinated manner to perpetrate their alleged crimes, investigators said Tuesday.

As part of "Operation Duck Hunt," the FBI gained access to the QakBot infrastructure and "redirected" the cyberactivity to servers controlled by U.S. investigators, according to senior FBI and Justice Department officials. Investigators were then able to inject the malware with a program that released the victim computer from the botnet, freeing it of the malicious host.

Law enforcement officials said Tuesday they're still trying to determine how many of the more than 700,000 computers infected were freed from Qakbot's control and credited close partnership with European investigators for the operation's success. No one has been arrested as a result of the international probe, but 52 servers were seized, and the investigation is ongoing.

Law enforcement officials emphasized that while hundreds of millions of dollars were likely lost because of attacks tied to Qakbot's cyber campaigns, national interests were also at stake because the ransomware groups were targeting hospitals and critical infrastructure that are vital to national security.

"Today's success is yet another demonstration of how FBI's capabilities and strategy are hitting cyber criminals hard, and making the American people safer," FBI Director Christopher Wray said in a statement.

Earlier this year, The FBI said it toppled an international ransomware group called Hive and seized its servers in California after more than a year of spying on the cybercriminals from inside their own network.

In July 2022, FBI agents penetrated Hive's computer networks and conducted what officials called a "21st-century high-tech cyber stakeout" by collecting decryption keys and distributing them to victims under the ransomware group's control.

The Qakbot takedown also represented an approach the government has been trying to foster  not just disrupting criminal cyber networks, but also arming victims with the tools necessary to counter a malware attack, law enforcement officials said Tuesday.

"Qakbot is a longstanding operation spanning more than a decade that has adapted and evolved with the timesAny impact to these operations is welcomed as it can cause fractures within the ecosystem and lead to disruptions that cause actors to forge other partnerships - even if it's only temporary," Kimberly Goody, senior manager at the cybersecurity firm Mandiant, said.

Mitch McConnell appears to freeze again in exchange with reporters

Fast-moving Hurricane Idalia leaves Florida flooded, heads for Georiga

Hurricane Idalia downgraded to Category 1 storm, headed for Georgia
A yin-yang-like shape made of pink and green dots shows two particles in a state of quantum entanglement

Scientists have used a first-of-its-kind technique to visualize two entangled light particles in real time  making them appear as a stunning quantum "yin-yang" symbol.

The new method, called biphoton digital holography, uses an ultra high-precision camera and could be used to massively speed up future quantum measurements. The researchers published their findings Aug. 14 in the journal Nature Photonics.

Quantum entanglement  the weird connection between two far-apart particles that Albert Einstein objected to as "spooky action at a distance"  enables two light particles, or photons, to become inextricably bound to each other, so that a change to one causes a change in the other, no matter how far apart they are.

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To make accurate predictions about a quantum object, physicists need to find its wavefunction: a description of its state existing in a superposition of all the possible physical values a photon can take. Entanglement makes finding the wavefunction of two connected particles a challenge, as any measurement of one also causes an instantaneous change in the other.

Related: X-rays reveal how 450-year-old Tycho supernova became a giant cosmic particle accelerator

Physicists usually approach this hurdle through a method known as quantum tomography. By taking a complex quantum state and applying a projection to it, they measure some property belonging to that state, such as its polarization or momentum, in isolation from others.

By repeating these measurements on multiple copies of the quantum state, physicists can build up a sense of the original from lower-dimensional slices  like reconstructing the shape of a 3D object from the 2D shadows it casts on surrounding walls.

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This process gives all the right information, but it also requires a lot of measurements and spits out plentiful "disallowed" states that don't follow the laws of physics to boot. This leaves scientists with the onerous task of painstakingly weeding out nonsensical, unphysical states, an effort that can take hours or even days depending on a system's complexity.

To get around this, the researchers used holography to encode information from higher dimensions into manageable, lower-dimensional chunks.

Optical holograms use two light beams to create a 3D image: one beam hits the object and bounces off of it, while the other shines on a recording medium. The hologram forms from the pattern of light interference, or the pattern in which the peaks and troughs of the two light waves add up or cancel each other out. The physicists used a similar method to capture an image of the entangled photon state through the interference pattern they made with another known state. Then, by capturing the resulting image with a nanosecond precise camera, the researchers teased apart the interference pattern they received  revealing a stunning yin-yang image of the two entangled photons.

"This method is exponentially faster than previous techniques, requiring only minutes or seconds instead of days," study co-author Alessio D'Errico, a postdoctoral fellow at the University of Ottawa in Canada, said in a statement.

This article was provided by Live Science.
In The Know by Yahoo

If you've never cleaned your washing machine filter before, you may be surprised to find what's lurking in there.
People are fed up with the activists and their roadblocks.

Video footage of radical environmental activists putting up a roadblock on a Nevada highway, which was rammed by a Tribal Rangers Chevy Silverado, has caused waves online. It starts off as the same scenario youve probably seen time and again with people sitting in the middle of a road with banners and such, holding up traffic to try calling attention to their pet cause. Only this time it ended with law enforcement dropping the hammer hard.

Look at the ridiculous car theft deterrent Toronto police are promoting here.

One of the rangers pulls up and gives the protestors 30 seconds to remove their roadblock, which includes a trailer, from the road. Some of the activists have chained themselves to the obstructions thinking that would stop anyone from removing it. They were wrong, because not long after another ranger in a Chevy Silverado plows right through the middle of the roadblock as other rangers pull up.

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Thats when the rangers start arresting all the radical environmentalists in the road. As people watch this scene unfold, they ask why other law enforcement agencies here and in Europe dont just arrest people who sit in the road and are obviously breaking the law. Its a good question.

Weve seen in other more recent protests motorists have taken matters into their own hands, forcibly removing protestors from the road. One recent protest in Washington, D.C. featured people yelling at the activists about how they have to go to work and pay bills. We have to wonder if the protestors truly understand what thats like or if their trust funds cover such inconveniences.

VIDEO THREAD: On Saturday morning, @DecEmergency climate activists blocked a street in Washington DC again, their third time this week.



This time, several drivers got out of their cars yelling "I wanna go to work!" and grabbing their banners out of their hands. : @wallendupraw pic.twitter.com/5p2qPcGjF8  Ford Fischer (@FordFischer) August 27, 2023

As you can see in the YouTube video weve included, the line of dozens and dozens of cars sitting on the highway in Nevada seems to stretch on for hundreds of feet, eventually building a mile or so by the time the road is clear. That means all those cars, trucks, and RVs are idling, which is when an internal combustion engine is running the least efficiently. But these activists dont care as they sit in the road and argue with people who just want to get through.

The highway this roadblock was set up on is in the Black Rock Desert in northwestern Nevada and is the sole pathway leading to Burning Man. Thats why theres a huge line of vehicles trying to get through. People trying to go to Burning Man are livid as they try to explain to the protestors theyre some of the most liberal people around to which the protestors argue that liberalism isnt the solution. And there we have it, after an activist in a thick French accent says, this is a democracy; we have a right to protest. Irony knows no bounds.

People are starting to lose all patience for this kind of activist foolishness. This isnt about changing minds but instead its about a minority of people pushing the majority around, no matter if people lose their jobs, have to get to the hospital, or whatever collateral damage is inflicted on the population. After all, these activists believe there are too many of us on the planet anyway.

The barricade in Nevada, before it was vandalized by Burning Man attendees and ultimately crashed to pieces by rangers, featured a mix of messages about climate change alarmism, anti-capitalism, anti-fossil fuels, and anti-economic/population growth. In other words, these people truly are radicals who seem to have overall disdain for human civilization. Is it any wonder they would pull a stunt like this, then play victim?

Nevada rangers drove directly into a blockade set up by climate protestors on the road to Burning Man. An officer pulled a gun out, tackling a protestor and threatening to shoot



Environmental activists were demanding that #BurningMan ban private jets + single-use plastics pic.twitter.com/dawDjxhV4y  michelle lhq (@MichelleLhooq) August 28, 2023
(Reuters) - Norfolk Southern said it has restored all rail systems after the U.S. railroad operator experienced a hardware-related outage that affected its operations earlier on Monday.

All systems were restored at 0700 pm ET (11 pm GMT), the company said, adding that it expects the impact on its operations to last at least a couple of weeks.

There is no indication that the outage was a cybersecurity incident, Norfolk said, without disclosing further details.

The company said it has been in touch with its customers to work on updated timings for their shipments.

The U.S. Transportation Department's Federal Railroad Administration disclosed earlier this month that it is considering enforcement actions against Norfolk Southern, which has been under heavy fire after one of its freight trains carrying hazardous materials derailed in East Palestine, Ohio, spewing toxins into the air and water.

(Reporting by Akanksha Khushi in Bengaluru; Editing by Sherry Jacob-Phillips)
Republican presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy on Monday suggested adding a physical fitness section to the SAT standardized test as a pro-merit solution after the Supreme Court effectively ended race-based admissions policies at colleges.

Now that the Supreme Court finally ended affirmative action, colleges will only further deprioritize SAT scores in favor of subjective factors because of large racial disparities in test results, Ramaswamy said in a post on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter.

Theres a simple way forward that will drive excellence and diversity of talent among incoming college classes: the College Board should add a physical fitness section to the SAT, instead of just math and reading sections, the presidential contender proposed.

Ramaswamy suggested the test could consist of a 1-mile run, pull-ups, sit-ups, shuttle run, etc. and serve as a means to address multiple cultural & health challenges in the country  though he clarified the position is not formally a part of his presidential campaign platform.

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This is a pro-merit solution that rewards diverse talents: its a fact that those who perform well on math & reading tests tend to perform more poorly on the 1-mile run, and vice versa, Ramaswamy said.

The Hill Elections 2024 coverage

The SAT is an exam administered to high school students that has long been required by many colleges and universities as part of the admissions process, though some institutions have switched to test-optional applications in recent years.

The Supreme Court in June ruled to severely restrict the use of race as a factor in college admissions, ruling 6-3 against race-conscious admissions policies at Harvard and University of North Carolina Chapel Hill and effectively ending affirmative action programs.

Many Republicans praised the decision, while Democrats knocked it as a blow to diversity in the college admissions process.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
GOP presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy and MSNBC anchor Andrea Mitchell sparred in an often-testy exchange on a variety of topics during an interview Tuesday.

Ramaswamy and Mitchell pushed back against each other and at times spoke over each other as they tangled over the conservative entrepreneurs policy proposals. One of the most intense parts was the discussion of Ramaswamys views on climate change, which he has on multiple occasions called a hoax.

He has argued that more people have died from policies put in place to combat climate change than climate change itself. The fact-checking organization PolitiFact has given this claim a Pants on fire rating, the lowest rating in terms of accuracy it can give.

The Hill Elections 2024 coverage

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Mitchell cited a report from the World Meteorological Organization that found extreme weather events caused 2 million deaths and $4.3 trillion in damage between 1970 and 2021.

Can you offer a shred of evidence that more than 2 million people died from converting to clean energy? she asked Ramaswamy.

Ramaswamy did not directly answer her question but argued that climate disaster-related deaths have dropped significantly over the past century. He claimed the reason for this is because of access to fossil fuels.

PolitiFact reported that death rates from weather disasters have declined over decades, but experts have said it is because of better warning systems to alert people, and the decline does not undermine evidence that increasingly extreme weather has cost many lives.

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Mitchell told Ramaswamy that the mayor of St. Petersburg, Fla., has been a resident of the city for three generations and said he has not seen the ocean warming like it has recently.

Andrea, may I please offer a response to that? And I mean this with due respect, if someone on the other side who were an uneducated person from Arkansas who didnt go to college and offered one weather event as one anecdote to support the theory of global climate change, youd laugh them off stage as a rube for saying they dont follow data, Ramaswamy said.

The two of them also discussed former Vice President Mike Pences decision to certify the results of the 2020 presidential election. Ramaswamy said in an interview Sunday on Meet the Press that he would have certified the election as Pence did in January 2021, but he would have pushed for reforms to the election system before doing so.

Mitchell questioned Ramaswamy about the potential for Vice President Harris to take a similar approach, to which Ramaswamy cut in with, To be clear, I stand by what I said. She continued to ask him how he could have pushed the legislation through in time to certify the election.

I stand by what I said in that interview, not what you just said that I said, the biotech entrepreneur replied. I said thats what I would have delivered and then used that as an opportunity for heroism to reunite this country.

As Ramaswamy laid out his proposals, including paper ballots for elections and government-issued photo ID requirements, Mitchell told him that his proposals would take time. He said some bills have moved forward in much faster periods of time, and the two of them talked over each other at times.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
This week, Central Kentucky residents will have the chance to see a moon that will appear bigger and brighter than usual. The celestial event will be a supermoon and a blue moon, though it wont appear blue in color.

The full moon will occur Wednesday and Thursday, according to Forbes, and the best time to see it is at moonrise either evening. The moon will rise at 8:22 p.m. Wednesday and 8:52 p.m. Thursday in Lexington.

The moon will become full at 9:36 p.m. Wednesday, NASA reports, and it will appear full from Tuesday night to Friday morning.

What time is the Super Blue Moon of 2023? https://t.co/J3ftb6r01X pic.twitter.com/JxXCsM0jwi  SPACE.com (@SPACEdotcom) August 28, 2023

To get the best view of this months blue supermoon and other sights in the sky, NASA scientists recommend scoping out a dark, more rural stargazing spot if possible.

What is a blue supermoon?

A supermoon occurs when the moon is at or near its closest point to earth at the same time as its full, NASA reports, and this makes it appear especially large and bright.

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This will be a blue moon because it is Augusts second full moon. The sturgeon full moon peaked Aug. 1. A blue moon usually occurs once every two to three years, according to NASA.

Its more unusual for a blue moon to coincide with a supermoon  roughly 25% of all full moons are supermoons, NASA estimates, and only 3% of all full moons are blue moons. The interval between blue supermoons can be up to 20 years, but is usually closer to 10.

The next super blue moons will occur in a pair, in January and March 2037, an Aug. 17 NASA article reads.

Although it will be a while before you can catch the next super blue moon, 2023 will have four more full moons, including one supermoon.

Heres when to look:

Sept. 29: Harvest supermoon

Oct. 28: Hunters moon

Nov. 27: Beaver moon

Dec. 26: Cold moon

To enjoy stargazing with others, you may consider attending an event with the Bluegrass Amateur Astronomy Club. The organization will hold stargazing gatherings at Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill Sept. 9 and Oct. 7, as well as events at Raven Run Nature Sanctuary Sept. 16 and Oct. 14.

Do you have a question about the environment in Kentucky for our service journalism team? Wed like to hear from you. Fill out our Know Your Kentucky form or email ask@herald-leader.com.
Ray Smith, a former lawyer for the Trump campaign, is the first of 19 defendants to enter a not guilty plea to charges in Fulton County, Georgia, accusing the group of plotting to thwart the state's 2020 election results.

An attorney for Smith filed a waiver of arraignment Monday indicating Smith will not appear as scheduled on Sept. 6, and entered not guilty pleas to each of Smith's 12 charges.

Smith and his co-defendants, who include former President Donald Trump, are accused of violating Georgia's racketeering law through an alleged scheme to overturn the election after President Joe Biden 's victory in the state in 2020.

The Aug. 15 indictment claims Smith unlawfully requested state lawmakers appoint a different set of electors from Georgia who would cast their votes for Trump, and conspired with others to falsify a document that purported to be the certificate of the votes of the state's 2020 presidential electors.

In this handout provided by the Fulton County Sheriff's Office, Georgia lawyer Ray Smith poses for his booking photo on August 23, 2023 in Atlanta, Georgia. / Credit: Fulton County Sheriff's Office

Smith surrendered on Aug. 23 to a Fulton County jail and was released on $50,000 bond.

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It is not clear if any other defendants will waive their arraignments.

The other 18 co-defendants are scheduled to be arraigned on Sept. 6.

Trump is currently scheduled to be the first arraigned that day, at 9:30 a.m. If he doesn't waive his appearance, he will hear the 13 felony charges he faces and is then expected to enter a not guilty plea. Soon after, at 9:45 a.m., Trump's former attorney, Rudy Giuliani, is scheduled to go through the same process.

The arrangements of their co-defendants are scheduled to continue in a 15-minute-increment procession until 3:15 p.m., with a one-hour lunch break at noon.

An attorney for Trump would not say Monday if he intends to attend the arraignment.

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A wildfire that started in Whatcom Countys Blue Canyon Monday night has prompted Level 2 evacuations that went into effect Wednesday.

The fire in the southeast Lake Whatcom area may have been started by a lightning strike.

The Washington State Department of Natural Resources, which is in charge of fighting the fire, issued a Level 2, or get ready to leave evacuation notice, only for those who live on Blue Canyon Road. The road is closed at South Bay Drive and Park Road.

Homeowners are told to pack up and be prepared to leave at a moments notice.

      .  . The Washington State Department of Natural Resources has issued the... Posted by Whatcom County Sheriff's Office on Tuesday, August 29, 2023

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Around 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, DNR said water would be scooped from Lake Whatcom to fight the fire, according to the Whatcom County Sheriffs Office. Boat launches on Lake Whatcom have been closed and no boat traffic is allowed on the lake.

Fog is currently grounding firefighting planes and helicopters working to knock down the fire.

The Bellingham Parks Department also closed its boat launches and no drones are allowed in the area where the scoop planes are operating.

The DNR said that the fire is now burning about 30 acres on the steep slopes above Blue Canyon Road.

If a Level 3 evacuation notice is issued, it means residents should leave immediately.

We spoke with one woman who now lives on Maui and just arrived in Whatcom County to visit family. She worries her familys home could face a similar fate she witnessed from the devastating Hawaii wildfires.

Officials told us the steep, forested terrain, only adds to the difficulty of this fire-fight. As for the smoke, its sticking around until the fall rains come.

Happening now! Wildfire 

Lightning  struck a tree earlier this evening about 2 miles away South Lake Whatcom #wawx #pnw #wildfire pic.twitter.com/qBXQCPV2L7  Wheels (@wheeler244) August 29, 2023
On Aug. 18, 2022, a records department employee at the California Correctional Center emailed federal immigration authorities a list of people they believed could be subject to deportation. The list noted that most of those named were born outside the U.S. or had an unknown birthplace. But 12 people were listed as having been born in this country.

That email was obtained by the American Civil Liberties Union's Northern California affiliate and shared with The Times. The advocacy group says California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation staff routinely assume people in their custody are deportable immigrants  even when their own records indicate they are U.S. citizens or immigrants who should not be deported  and report those individuals to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement while denying them rehabilitation opportunities.

The records stem from a public records request filed last year by the ACLU affiliate, which sought communications between the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, or CDCR, and ICE. The ACLU and other advocacy groups said they analyzed about 2,500 unique records from August and September 2022, during which the department transferred more than 200 people from its facilities to immigration custody.

The groups detailed the results in a report published Tuesday that they say describes the practices employed by the department in cooperation with ICE and provides examples of alleged actions by department staff that are discriminatory, including against immigrants.

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In their zeal to collude with ICE, CDCR is not only targeting people who have served their time and are set to return home for detention and deportation but is also sweeping up U.S. citizens and Green Card holders, relying on racist assumptions and ignoring their own records, the report states.

Gov. Gavin Newsom's office referred questions from The Times to the corrections department.

CDCR spokesperson Terri Hardy said the department is working to limit communications with ICE to only when someone enters prison and when their release date is approaching. Hardy said the department inquires with ICE for an official determination if staff can't determine an individual's place of birth or if information indicates that the person could be an immigrant.

ICE spokesman Richard Beam said the agency requests that California law enforcement notify ICE as early as possible of immigrants who are subject to deportation so that ICE can assume custody when they are released. He said those requests, called immigration detainers, conserve government resources and increase public safety by allowing arrests to be made in a secure setting instead of finding people for deportation within their community.

The report follows a lawsuit filed by the ACLU affiliate and former prisoners that alleged similar issues to those described in the records. In one example described in the suit, a woman born in California to Cambodian immigrants was referred to ICE because state prison officials wrongly perceived her to be a Mexican immigrant.

Records from the report appear to show some prisons have an "ICE Desk" with staff designated to facilitate referrals of incarcerated people to federal authorities.

According to the report, if a CDCR official perceives someone to be foreign born, that triggers a potential" hold at intake  an internal designation established in the department's operations manual. Once someone is marked with a potential hold, they are barred from lower-security custody placements, certain jobs and reentry programming.

Hardy said the CDCR is working on regulations that would allow incarcerated people with ICE holds to be placed in less-restrictive housing based on their behavior and program participation.

CDCR staff regularly put together ICE packets containing background information and criminal records of people they believe could be transferred to ICE custody, according to the report. Advocates said ICE often doesnt begin investigating until a persons earliest possible release date nears, sometimes with only days to spare. If ICE believes that person is subject to deportation, the CDCR issues an actual" hold to show ICE's intent to arrest the person upon their release, according to the department's operations manual.

ICE has detained and even deported U.S. citizens. Last year, Asian Americans Advancing Justice  Asian Law Caucus and the ACLU affiliate settled a lawsuit with ICE over the unlawful detention of a U.S. citizen, Brian Bukle, who had been referred to the agency by the CDCR. Bukle repeatedly told ICE agents that he was a U.S. citizen while detained for 36 days at Mesa Verde ICE Processing Center in Bakersfield before an immigration attorney intervened and secured his release.

Sana Singh of the ACLU affiliate said the group has been reviewing records since February and expects to receive thousands more pages of records in the coming months.

"What's reflected in these records is CDCR engaging in formalized discrimination," she said. "We felt it was worth sharing now even before we get the full universe of records."

Documents obtained by the ACLU affiliate showed that CDCR staff referred people to ICE despite the state's own records showing they were U.S. citizens. In one email, a case record technician at Avenal State Prison referred a man to ICE whose records indicated he was born in California. The technician joked in an email to ICE agents inquiring about his legal status, Should we just put US citizen on a piece of paper fold it up and put it in a hat, and then write on another piece of paper Mexican, fold it up and also throw that in the hat and pick one.

In response to a question about the incident, Hardy said, "The email communication between a former CDCR employee at Avenal State Prison and ICE is unacceptable, and not in line with expectations for how our staff communicate and work with other law enforcement agencies.

"We are working to ensure our staff is properly trained and informed when dealing with these types of cases," Hardy said. The CDCR did not respond to other questions from The Times.

In another email, sent by a correctional case records supervisor at San Quentin State Prison to an ICE deportation officer 11 days before a prisoner was scheduled for release, the supervisor said the inmates records indicated he was born in California.

But, the supervisor wrote, He was not; he was born in Mexico."

May I ask what leads you to believe he was born in Mexico? the ICE agent asked in response.

His Probation Officers Report, as well as the information collected by the counselors when first received in prison, all state he was born in Mexico, the supervisor replied. I was tipped off while reviewing his parole audit  that he doesnt speak English.

Most people on lists sent by the CDCR to ICE whose birthplace is listed as the U.S. had non-Anglo-Saxon names, according to the report. ICE regularly sent back forms indicating that the person the CDCR had referred could not be deported, Singh said.

CDCR employees ask ICE if it would like to pick up a prisoner even without prompting from federal authorities, the records show, and have repeatedly followed up when agents did not respond. Sometimes, state officials held inmates beyond their release dates to verify if ICE wanted to arrest them, according to the report.

Hardy said the CDCR does not, and cannot by law, hold incarcerated people past their release dates.

A case records technician at Richard J. Donovan Correctional Facility indicated in one email that they would wait for a response from ICE before signing off on a prisoners parole.

In another instance, a case records technician at Chuckwalla Valley State Prison said a prisoner had declined to speak with ICE. Even so, the technician asked an ICE agent, Do you still want to set an interview for him? That appears to be in conflict with California law stating that such interviews are voluntary.

Ny Nourn, co-director of Asian Prisoner Support Committee, remembers being disqualified from a firefighting job and a cable wire harness manufacturing job because of her ICE hold. During her annual prison reviews, officials would tell her she was doing well  she said she received no write-ups or violations  but reminded her of the hold. Nourn, a green card holder born in Thailand to Cambodian refugees, was incarcerated for 16 years for her role in a murder committed by her former partner, who she said abused her, before being pardoned by Newsom.

After being released from the Central California Women's Facility in 2017, Nourn spent six months fighting deportation.

"There's many immigrants like me who have been transferred over to ICE," she said. "CDCR is not about rehabilitation."

She and other advocates are calling for California legislators to advance the HOME Act, which would block transfers to ICE detention of incarcerated people who meet the requirements for release under certain existing laws. Lawmakers rejected a predecessor of that bill last year.

Assemblymember Wendy Carrillo (D-Los Angeles), who sponsored the bill, said the documents obtained by the ACLU show clear bias that requires the Legislature to demand accountability.

"In actively collaborating with ICE and with their own discriminatory language and actions, CDCR has betrayed the publics trust and their own mission to facilitate the successful reentry of individuals in their care," she said.

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

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
The authorities have announced a forced evacuation of children from five settlements in Zaporizhzhia Oblast due to a difficult security situation.

Source: Ministry of Reintegration website

Quote from the Ministry: "Forced evacuation of children has been announced in five settlements of Zaporizhzhia Oblast. The relevant appeal of Zaporizhzhia Oblast Military Administration was considered at a meeting of the Coordination Staff for the mandatory evacuation of the population under martial law."

Details: The mandatory evacuation has been introduced in five settlements, including the town of Huliaipole and the villages of Stepnohirsk, Preobrazhenka, Yehorivka and Novopavlivka.

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It is reported that due to the difficult security situation and Russian attacks, 54 children and 67 accompanying persons (family members) will be forcibly evacuated from there.

In addition to children, the mandatory evacuation will also apply to people with reduced mobility living in these settlements.

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The Ministry of Reintegration of Temporarily Occupied Territories announced on Aug. 29 the mandatory evacuation of children and their parents or guardians from five settlements of Zaporizhzhia Oblast.

The measure will concern 54 children and 67 accompanying family members from Huliaipole, Yehorivka, and Preobrazhenka in the Polohy district, and Stepnohirsk and Novopavlivka in the Vasylivka district.

As the reason for the evacuation, the ministry listed the worsening security situation and Russian shelling.

The mandatory evacuation will also apply to people with limited mobility living in the aforementioned settlements, the announcement said.

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Deputy Prime Minister for Reintegration of Temporarily Occupied Territories Iryna Vereshchuk said already on Aug. 28 that the measure will soon be announced by the authorities.

Both the Polohy and Vasylivka districts are located near the front line running through the partially occupied Zaporizhzhia Oblast. Ukrainian troops are pushing through the southern region as part of their ongoing counteroffensive.

Evacuations of children are also underway in the Kupiansk district in Kharkiv Oblast, as well as in front-line settlements of Donetsk Oblast.

Read also: UNICEF: Only third of Ukrainian children can attend schools in person

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
Gov. Bill Lee and First Lady Maria Lee speaks to press after their visit to the STAR Center as part of the Tennessee Serves Project in Jackson, Tennessee on Monday, Aug. 28, 2023.

The STAR Center administration in Jackson welcomed Gov. Bill and First Lady Maria Lee on Monday morning to explore the facility's various services for those with disabilities, including a robust music therapy program, and to hear first-hand success stories.

First Lady Lee, who was in attendance through her "Tennessee Serves" initiative, explained that her initiative is partnering with different nonprofits that exclusively serve those with disabilities.

She also highlighted the benefits music therapy can provide for those with cognitive disabilities.

Tennessee First Lady Maria Lee speaks to media after her visit to the STAR Center as part of the Tennessee Serves Project in Jackson, Tennessee on Monday, Aug. 28, 2023.

"This month, we're focusing on intellectual and developmental disabilities, so we've partnered with the STAR Center to help supply some things for their music therapy program, which is just so essential in helping with cognitive abilities, communication and social and emotional abilities. Music therapy is huge," she said.

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STAR Center President Jennifer Graves led the Lees through the organization's advanced assistive technology and allowed them to sit in on a musical therapy session, which the governor.

Gov. Bill Lee called the center a "remarkable place that serves remarkable people."

"Part of what today does for me, and for us, is to understand most of what this organization is doing and how better to partner with them," Lee said in reference to the number of state agencies STAR works with. "When we recognize the work that they are doing, it allows the agencies within the state to determine how we can be better partners."

Gov. Bill Lee and First Lady Maria Lee talks with Jennifer Cunningham during their visit of STAR Center as part of the Tennessee Serves Project in Jackson, Tennessee on Monday, Aug. 28, 2023.

More: Graves ready to continue helping in new role at STAR Center

With an overarching goal of securing employment for those it serves, The STAR Center is a disability support organization that serves all ages with a wide range of disabilities.

"Just in the last two years, we've placed almost 100 clients in positions where they're impacting their families, they're impacting our local economy, and just their own futures," she said.

STAR Center employees gather as Gov. Bill Lee gives parting words after his visit as part of the Tennessee Serves Project in Jackson, Tennessee on Monday, Aug. 28, 2023.

Founded in 1998, The STAR Center currently serves over 4,000 clients each year across all 95 counties and has an annual operating budget of approximately $4.5 million, according to Graves.

At a single time, the center serves 100 clients through assisted technology and 25 music therapy clients.

"I'm so proud of the STAR center and everything that we offer in the community, so we're proud to have shown the governor who we are and what we do," Graves said.

Gov. Bill Lee and First Lady Maria Lee are shown light controls inside the STAR Center's sensory room as part of the Tennessee Serves Project in Jackson, Tennessee on Monday, Aug. 28, 2023.

She added that she hopes one of the Lees takeaways from the visit is to recognize the all-encompassing services the center offers and how the center is "truly doing workforce development here every single day."

Tennessee Serves is a service project initiative that the First Lady's office began four years ago to bring volunteers together and help communities. During that time period, the Tennessee Serves initiative has partnered with 3,841 Tennesseans to complete 195 service projects, while working with 151 organizations.

This article originally appeared on Jackson Sun: Gov. Lee, First Lady help those with disabilities at STAR Center tour
WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind.  West Lafayette police saw Austin Dean Schultz driving north on U.S. 231 near Cumberland Avenue about 3 p.m. Monday, and attempted to stop him because he was suspected of thefts in the city.

Schultz ignored police and continued to drive, tossing what police suspect was a bag of meth from his car window, according to West Lafayette police.

Schultz turned eastbound onto Sagamore Parkway West, then led officers on a chase north on Morehouse Road before officers stopped the pursuit.

An Indiana State Police trooper stopped Schultz, 29, later Monday at a convenience store at Interstate 65 and U.S. 24, according to West Lafayette police.

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Schultz was returned to West Lafayette, where he was suspected of two thefts.

A search warrant for Schultz's Remington home turned up power tools stolen Saturday from the West Lafayette Ace Hardware store. Schultz's car also had a license plate on it that had been stolen from a car parked at a West Lafayette apartment complex, police said.

Police booked Schultz into the Tippecanoe County Jail on suspicion of possession of meth, resisting law enforcement and theft. He remained incarcerated on Tuesday morning.

Reach Ron Wilkins at rwilkins@jconline.com. Follow on Twitter: @RonWilkins2.

This article originally appeared on Lafayette Journal & Courier: Remington man jailed on suspicion of thefts in West Lafayette
Detectives with the Renton Police Department are asking the public for help to identify a person wanted for a bank robbery earlier this month.

At about noon on Aug. 14, officers responded to a report of a robbery at the Chase Bank inside a Fred Meyer in the 17800 block of 108th Avenue Southeast in Renton.

According to police, a Black man entered the bank wearing all-black clothing and a surgical mask.

Police say the man had a note demanding money and that he had a gun, however, no gun was seen.

The man ran away with the money.

If you have information about this man, contact Detective Edwards at cedwards@rentonwa.gov and reference case #23-9326.

Can You Identify This Bank Robbery Suspect? pic.twitter.com/ew3ZhqfmdG  Renton Police Dept. (@RentonpdWA) August 29, 2023












State Rep. Bob Young, R-Green, was booked into the Tuscarawas County Jail Monday night on a Summit County charge of violating a protection order.

State Rep. Bob Young was arrested and jailed Monday after being charged with a first-degree misdemeanor accusing him of "recklessly" violating the terms of a protection order, according to court documents.

Tuscarawas County sheriff's deputies arrested Young at 10:15 p.m. at a home there and released him at 1:10 a.m. Tuesday to the Summit County Sheriff's Office. The Republican lawmaker from Green was in pre-booking at the Summit County Jail at 6 a.m. Tuesday, but it was not clear if he had since been released.

Young is accused of calling and leaving voicemails using his cellphone at 10:35 p.m., 10:47 p.m. and 11:01 p.m. Saturday on the landline of a family member protected by a restraining order, according to an affidavit for arrest obtained by the Akron Beacon Journal.

Wednesday in court: After second arrest, judge orders state Rep. Bob Young to wear GPS monitor to leave jail

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When the Summit County Sheriff's Office learned of the alleged violation, Inspector Bill Holland said the office issued the charge of violating a protection order.

A Barberton judge issued the restraining order in early July just days after two alleged assaults involving family members led to Young's first arrest.

Young is accused of slapping his wife at 1 a.m. July 7 during a private party held his home after a GOP fundraiser earlier that night. A witness statement from another woman dated Aug. 8 alleges Young also "struck" her at the same July 7 event, according to records obtained by the newspaper.

Green representative: Deputies called to Rep. Bob Young's home in 2020 for 'physical domestic disturbance'

In this image from body-worn camera, a Summit County Sheriff's deputy takes picture of a broken storm door and a flower pot that was knocked over July 7 during a domestic dispute at the home of a relative of Rep. Bob Young, R-Green. Young was indicted this week on two first-degree misdemeanors for domestic violence the night before and assault for this incident where a relative blocked him from entering his home. Blood is visible on the steps.

Later on July 7, Young allegedly charged a family member to gain entry into a home where his wife and child fled, according to police. The relative, defending himself, pushed the lawmaker back through the glass storm door.

Young was indicted in July by a grand jury in Summit County Common Pleas Court on charges of domestic violence and assault, both first-degree misdemeanors. He pleaded not guilty to these charges earlier this month.

He faces no felony charges now, though he was initially charged with a felony count of disrupting public service. A felony conviction would have prevented Young from serving as a state representative.

State Rep. Bob Young, left, and his attorney John Greven listen as Judge Edward OFarrell speaks during Young's arraignment hearing Aug. 4 in Barberton Municipal Court. Young pleaded not guilty to two misdemeanor assault charges involving his family members.

Judge Edward OFarrell ended Young's $5,000 bond in the case and released him on personal recognizance with the promise that Young would remain in touch with his attorney and show up for future court proceedings.

Both restraining orders were left in place.

This breaking news story will be updated.

This article originally appeared on Akron Beacon Journal: Rep. Bob Young charged with 'recklessly' violating restraining order
The Pentagon has unveiled its latest strategy to counter Chinas rapid military progress, with a program named Replicator that intends to focus on fielding thousands of attritable autonomous platforms that will be characterized by being small, smart, cheap, and many. The initiative seeks to harness U.S. innovation as a way to counter the mass of Chinas armed forces, while also, once again, putting the onus on uncrewed systems that will benefit from AI algorithms.

The Replicator program was announced today by U.S. Deputy Defense Secretary Kathleen Hicks, speaking at the National Defense Industrial Associations Emerging Technologies conference in Washington.

Deputy Secretary of Defense Kathleen H. Hicks. DoD photo by Lisa Ferdinando

As to the threat that Replicator is meant to overcome, Hicks was explicit about what she described as the PRCs biggest advantage, which is mass: more ships, more missiles, more people. Hicks also identified the particular challenge posed by Chinas rapidly diversifying anti-access/area-denial capabilities.

Two mockups of the Chinese DF-17 short-range ballistic missile, which carries a hypersonic boost-glide vehicle warhead. China Military

She added that there is a historical precedent for the kind of approach that Replicator espouses: Even when we mobilize our economy and manufacturing base, rarely have Americas war-winning strategies relied solely on matching an adversary, ship for ship or shot for shot, she said, before adding a barbed comment that seemed to refer to Russias all-out invasion of Ukraine: After all, we dont use our people as cannon fodder like some competitors do.

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In contrast, Replicator is intended to continue and build upon the U.S. ability to outmatch adversaries by out-thinking, out-strategizing, and outmaneuvering them; we augment manufacturing and mobilization with our real comparative advantage, which is the innovation and spirit of our people.

A rendering of different tiers of advanced drones flying together with a stealthy F-35A Joint Strike Fighter, providing one idea of what attritable autonomous systems might look like in the air warfare domain. Lockheed Martin Skunk Works

So, what will Replicator consist of once it becomes a reality?

Here, Hicks provided few details, other than to explain that the program seeks to master the technology of tomorrow, namely, attritable autonomous systems in all domains. The advantages of these kinds of platforms include that they are less expensive, put fewer people in the line of fire, and [they] can be changed, updated, or improved with substantially shorter lead times. Well counter the PLAs mass with mass of our own, but ours will be harder to plan for, harder to hit, harder to beat.

Attritable, in this context, is normally taken to refer to a platform thats inexpensive enough to be willing to lose on high-risk missions, while being capable enough to be relevant for those missions. More recently, however, the Air Force began to use the term affordable mass, on the basis that attritable suggests a greater willingness to actually lose these systems, which might not necessarily be the case in an operational scenario. There are other definitions of attritable, too, which you can read more about here. In the case of Replicator, its really not yet possible to get an ideas of what these platforms might cost, but, clearly, affordability, rapid iterative development cycles, and the possibility of mass production are all considerations at this stage.

Dating back to around 2019, this Air Force rendering was described as a low-cost attritable Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicle (UCAV). USAF



In terms of autonomous systems, Hicks said that Replicator will be developed and fielded in line with our responsible and ethical approach to AI and autonomous systems, where the DoD has been a world leader for over a decade.

As we have explored in the past, the U.S. military has been working on developing autonomous capabilities for decades now publicly, and there has certainly been significant work done in the classified realm, too.

Hicks reference to a responsible and ethical approach to AI suggests that Replicator may still include humans in the loop, especially when it comes to certain sensitive tasks, above all, decisions about whether or not to employ lethal force. In this respect, its widely assumed that China, in particular, takes a somewhat different approach, something that Hicks apparently referred to, when she described another comparative advantage we have over the PRC, namely, that these systems will empower our warfighters  not overpower or undercut their abilities.

A close-up view of an ATLAS sensor turret  an experimental AI-driven target recognition system  on a U.S. Army M1 Abrams tank. DoD

Hicks brought up the example of the war in Ukraine to show how emerging tech developed by commercial and non-traditional companies can be decisive in defending against modern military aggression. Specifically, she pointed to Starlink satellite internet constellation, Switchblade loitering munition, and the use of commercial satellite imagery to influence the conflict.

The kinds of commercial and rapidly developed drones that Ukraine has used to great effect for intelligence, reconnaissance, and surveillance, as well as targeting and attack, may provide one pointer to the sorts of systems that Replicator may yield, but the program is altogether much wider.

https://twitter.com/Osinttechnical/status/1691084867839172609?s=20

While the development of attritable and autonomous systems has often frequently been in the air warfare domain, Hicks was keen to point out that the same concepts have already been subject to Pentagon investment through all the military services, the Defense Innovation Unit, the Strategic Capabilities Office, and at the level of the different combatant commands themselves.

The development of attritable and autonomous systems already spans multiple domains, from self-piloted ships to uncrewed aircraft and more, and the same will be and the same will be the case for Replicator.

A U.S. Navy USV gets recovered aboard a ship while underway. USN

As well as bringing down costs, Hicks observed that the attritable concept also offers the significant benefit of allowing systems to be produced closer to the tactical edge. Such systems can be brought into battle faster than traditional defense technologies and once fielded, they can be used in more unorthodox ways, including outside the normal mission command chains, meaning that they can empower the lowest possible echelons to innovate and succeed in the battle.

A UVision Hero-400 loitering munition on a trailer-mounted catapult launch system during a U.S. Marine Corps test in 2022. USMC

Hicks also brought up another interesting function of Replicators attritable and autonomous systems, namely that they should have the ability to serve as resilient distributed systems even if bandwidth is limited, intermittent, degraded, or denied.

Perhaps the most striking aspect of Replicator is the speed and size envisaged, with Hicks outlining the goal of fielding attritable and autonomous systems at a scale of multiple thousands, in multiple domains, within the next 18 to 24 months. She admitted that this is easier said than done, and its one that will apparently require an altogether new approach to harnessing industry, almost certainly including non-traditional companies, for the benefit of the Pentagon.

In the past, the Air Force, in particular, has looked to so-called digital engineering to help rapidly develop new aircraft that can be brought into production on an interactive basis. More recently, there have been suggestions that the concept isnt likely to be so revolutionary in reality, with even the Air Forces own boss, Frank Kendall, concluding that the digital engineering processes has been over-hyped. For Replicator, the Pentagon may have to look to other routes for rapidly developing and fielding new platforms.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OqskhTNwYlQ

Exactly what the kinds of systems that Replicator should produce will look like, and the particular missions they undertake, remains very much speculative at this point. However, Hicks emphasized the fact that these attritable and autonomous systems are not simply expected to supersede current systems overnight, but instead herald a longer-term shift in the way that the Pentagon prepares for and goes to war.

Hicks painted a picture of the future U.S. military as one in which Americans still benefit from platforms that are large, exquisite, expensive, and few. However, Replicator will galvanize progress in the too-slow shift of U.S. military innovation to leverage platforms that are small, smart, cheap, and many, with these also operating for benefit of, if not collaboratively with more expensive and less prolific systems. This is very much defines the Air Force and Navy's Next Generation Air Dominance efforts. In particular, the dichotomy between the Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) drones that will accompany the extremely high-end manned NGAD aircraft into combat.

Hicks says there is still a place in the U.S. military for platforms that are large, exquisite, expensive, and few  like the Next Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) program. Lockheed Martin

Hicks hopes that Replicator is the program that finally tilts the balance in favor of this kind of warfare. With extremely ambitious targets as regards the volume and velocity of the program, that may be very hard to achieve, especially since attritable and autonomous systems already present plenty of operational challenges, even without the accelerated timeline.

And while details of the kinds of systems that Replicator is expected to produce are still to come, the program is already highly noteworthy, not least for the very central position given to the challenge posed by Chinas growing military dominance in the Asia Pacific region and, in the future, likely elsewhere, too.

We can reasonably expect unmanned systems in the air, on the water, and below the waves of varying capabilities and complexities, none of which will be too 'exquisite' that it makes their development a long-term proposition or their price tag very high. But above all that, grand networking capabilities that can tie many of these systems together and keep controllers apprised of their activities will likely be the biggest challenge when it comes to operationalizing what Replicator produces to its full potential. The possibility for mesh networks spanning multiple domains over great area is likely also a critical aspect of this endeavor.

Projects like Lockheed Skunk Works' Speed Racer were designed to prove that relatively capable and adaptable autonomous systems can be built quickly and cheaply. (Lockheed Martin)

AI will not just be needed for autonomy, but also for parsing absolutely massive amounts of data produced by these systems which can quickly clog critical communications bandwidth 'pipes.' Parsing that data on-platform or at least in-theater before it is sent afar will be a major challenge and feature of any such concept. But above all else, the ability for disparate capabilities to collaborate autonomously in a diverse 'swarm or swarms' will be arguably the most impactful aspect of this emerging strategy. Overwhelming the enemy by volume and speed of action is definitely the critical play here.

Bottom line, this is a very big deal and not just in scope. This is a major part of the unmanned shift we have long been waiting for and predicting now coming into focus. It goes far beyond just near-term tactical and procurement changes. If it is realized as discussed, it will forever change the way the U.S. military fights and how it develops and procures weaponry.

As for the timing, two years from now puts the fielding of these assets at the heart of the time frame in which many are predicting China will make a move on Taiwan militarily. As such, Replicator could end up being as much a deterrence play as anything else. It's worth noting, that war gaming has shown that massive swarms of autonomous systems would be a decisive factor as to who wins a fight over the Taiwan Strait. You can read more about this here.

Repeated war gaming shows that large networked swarms of drones that can cover vast areas would be critical to winning a brawl over the Taiwan Strait. USAF/CDC

We must ensure the PRC leadership wakes up every day, considers the risks of aggression and concludes today is not the day and not just today, said Hicks. Time will tell to what degree Replicator is successful in helping achieve that.

Contact the author: thomas@thedrive.com
China to employ multiple methods to enhance monitoring of marine environmental pollution: MEE

10:54, August 29, 2023 By Shan Jie ( Global Times

The dumping of nuclear-contaminated wastewater from the Fukushima nuclear power plant in Japan has raised concerns among Chinese citizens about the state of the marine environment. Chinese environmental authorities on Monday vowed to strengthen the monitoring of marine environmental pollution through multiple means, including conducting baseline surveys of marine pollution and utilizing satellites for monitoring.

China has launched its third marine pollution baseline survey, with the goal of completing a thorough investigation and assessment by 2025, said Wang Juying, the director of the National Marine Environmental Monitoring Center, at the ministry's monthly press conference on Monday.

According to Wang, this survey follows the overall approach of "understanding the current situation, identifying problems, analyzing causes, and proposing countermeasures," and focuses on China's coastal waters and the country's 283 bays, with the aim of understanding the baseline levels of various pollutants in China's jurisdictional waters, the ecological conditions of various bays, and the impact of human activities.

"The survey aims to comprehensively grasp the basic state and trends of the marine ecological environment," Wang said.

China previously conducted the first and second national marine pollution baseline surveys in 1976 and 1996, respectively.

Hu Songqin, deputy director of the Department of Marine Ecology and Environment of the Ministry of Ecology and Environment, mentioned during the conference that the recent successful launch of a satellite to serve environmental protection and disaster management will significantly enhance data support and emergency response capabilities for sudden water environmental pollution events.

She stated that the Ministry of Ecology and Environment will actively collaborate with relevant research institutions and coastal regions, making effective use of data sources from monitoring systems.

"These will provide crucial technical support for addressing sudden environmental events, pollution incidents, investigations of key risk sources, and enhancing marine ecological environmental governance capabilities," she noted.

In response to Japan dumping the contaminated water from the Fukushima nuclear plant into the ocean, the Ministry of Ecology and Environment has stated the specific measures that China has taken in terms of marine radiation environment monitoring.

At present, the ministry is actively conducting marine radiation environment monitoring in areas under China's jurisdiction for the year 2023, guided by a focus on critical regions, comprehensive coverage of jurisdictional waters, and a thorough understanding of key pathways, according to the ministry.

The ministry also vowed that in the future it will continue to strengthen relevant monitoring efforts, closely track and assess the potential impact of of contaminated water from the Fukushima nuclear plant on China's marine environment, and effectively safeguard the national interests and public health.

In 2021 and 2022, the ministry organized marine radiation environment monitoring in areas under China's jurisdiction, which provided insight into the baseline condition of the marine radiation environment in these regions. The monitoring results indicated that there were no abnormal levels of artificial radioactive isotopes in the seawater and marine organisms in China's jurisdictional waters, and overall, the concentrations remained within the historical fluctuation range.

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun)
Representative Barry Loudermilk came so close to blaming climate change for hurricanes on Fox News.

The Georgia Republican nearly made the connection on Fox News Monday night, while discussing Hurricane Idalia, a Category 1 hurricane that is rapidly approaching the Florida coast; experts say Idalia could strengthen into a Category 3 storm before it is expected to make landfall Wednesday. Loudermilk compared the storm to Hurricane Katrina, which made landfall on the Gulf Coast 17 years ago almost to the day.



I think were on the anniversary of Katrina, today, one of the worst storms in history, Loudermilk said. If it was climate change, if its continuing to get worse, then would you not see more and more of this storm being worse and worse?

Well put, Loudermilk, even if it was a total accident.



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Loudermilk is, of course, a climate change denier. In 2014, Loudermilk told The Atlanta Journal Constitution, I believe that climate change is a function of nature; the climate has been changing as long as the Earth has existed. He supported President Trumps decision to withdraw from the Paris Climate Agreement in 2017.

But his words on Fox news are true: These storms are in fact getting worse thanks to climate change.

Hurricanes strengthen over warm ocean watersstorms need a temperature of around 82 degrees to start formingwhile warmer air holds more moisture and can also help intensify storms. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration said Monday that parts of the ocean off Floridas coast are more than four degrees hotter than the usual average for August; one measurement taken off the Florida Keys showed that the water was a shocking 91.2 degrees. Following one of the hottest summers on record, the wildly hot waters in the Gulf of Mexico are expected to rapidly intensify Hurricane Idalia. The Environmental Protection Agency has repeatedly affirmed that rising sea surface temperatures caused by climate change have led to an increase in tropical cyclone intensity, duration, and frequency.
Listen to this full episode of The New Abnormal on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon and Stitcher.

Republicans on Fox News and elsewhere are going wild after seeing Donald Trumps mugshot last week.

Jesse Watters , for instance, said on The Five that the quadruple-indicted former president looks hardwhile claiming that the image is already managing to endear him to Black voters.

Its an extremely offensive insinuation, The New Abnormal host Danielle Moodie says.

Apparently what they believe about Black people and Black culture is that all we do is identify with criminals and crooks, which, by the way, we dont! she said on this weeks episode.

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The worst of those is the ones that have the Trump mugshot and MLK Jr.s booking photos side-by-side, she added. I just look at that and Im like, Well, OK, Im not sure what youre trying to say here, because you would be all for Martin Luther King rotting in jail. Im not even sure what kind of comparison youre trying to make here, but it just, it doesnt work.

Subscribe to The New Abnormal on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, Amazon Music, or Overcast.

Plus! Why Jacksonvilles vicious heckling of Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis was so satisfying, according to co-host Andy Levyeven though its nowhere near enough to right the damage hes been enacting, especially in the states educational system.

Vivek Ramaswamy Filled the Void Left by Trump at Republican Debate

Then, an interview with Ari Cohn, the free speech counsel at TechFreedom, about the Kids Online Safety Act (KOSA), a bill currently making its way through the Senate that would, in theory, block minors from seeing harmful content online. Except, thats not what it does in practice, Cohn says.

Listen to this full episode of The New Abnormal on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon and Stitcher.

Read more at The Daily Beast.

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House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.) said Tuesday morning that Republicans considering an impeachment inquiry into President Joe Biden are taking orders from former President Trump.

They have nothing to show for their majority throughout the year, Jeffries said on CNN. And so, as a natural consequence of that, they just continue to take orders from Donald Trump, their puppet master-in-chief, who has directed them to persecute and to go after Joe Biden, which may take the form of an illegitimate impeachment inquiry.

On Sunday, House Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) said on Fox News Channels Sunday Morning Futures that an impeachment inquiry is a natural step forward after House Republican-led investigations into Biden and his family, which McCarthy and other GOP leaders claim reveal improper foreign dealings.

So, if you look at all the information we have been able to gather so far, it is a natural step forward that you would have to go to an impeachment inquiry, McCarthy said.

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Beyond the House Republican investigations, the presidents son, Hunter, is facing a federal investigation. Attorney General Merrick Garland appointed David Weiss as a special counsel in the case earlier this month after a plea deal fell apart.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Donald Trump will stand trial in Washington, D.C., for charges of trying to overturn the 2020 election on March 4, 2024a day before Super Tuesday voting in the Republican presidential primary. This is not for lack of trying by the Trump legal team, who originally aimed for a 2026 trial via a stunningly stupid move, as one CNN analyst put it.

In their quest to put off one of Trumps four concurrent legal battles on Monday, the former presidents legal team cited the Supreme Court case Powell v. Alabama, which overturned the convictions of the Black young men accused of raping two white women in the 1930s, retired California Superior Court Judge LaDoris Hazzard Cordell explained Monday night. And what the Trump team did was say that, Well, what happened in that trial is what could happen here, in this trial, which is absolutely absurd, Cordell told CNN on Monday night.

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Chutkans decision seem to rankled Trump from afar, and he vowed to appeal the trial date. Appealing a trial date isnt possible, mind you, but this hasnt stopped Trump from telling his Truth Social followers its possibleand Cordell noted that outside talk that will be also a problem for Trumps lawyers.

He is a nightmare for his lawyers. I mean, you have somebody like Trump, who has a fragile ego, who is a misogynist, who is a racist, in my view, and who also has this constant need to talk? Then, theres a term for that, logorrhea. Then, that is a real problem, she told CNN. Its going to be an issue for his lawyers to try to keep him quiet, even in the courtroom.

Having Trump in the court room will be...a lot. A Black woman judge is going to be there, telling him when he can talk and how to behave, Cordell said. So, this is going to be a very interesting, interesting trial.



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U.S. Sen. Rick Scott has pushed a series of bills intended to combat the countrys ongoing fentanyl crisis. But when it comes to reauthorizing a program that intelligence officers say is vital to disrupting the transport and distribution of the deadly opioid, hes not so sure.

Scott is demanding that top federal law enforcement officials propose substantial changes to Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act  which allows spy agencies to conduct warrantless surveillance on foreign targets outside of the United States  before Congress considers whether to renew the provision later this year.

Hes also asking FBI Director Christopher Wray to detail what steps his agency has taken to hold accountable employees who misused the program to collect information on U.S. citizens.

If you agree with me that the hundreds of thousands of unlawful, warrantless searches of U.S. citizen information your agency has conducted under Section 702 are entirely unacceptable, to attempt to regain the American publics trust, please explain the accountability for those rogue agents who conducted those illegal queries, Scott wrote in a letter to Wray earlier this month.

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Scott isnt alone in his concerns about the program, which is set to expire at the end of the year. While Democrats have long warned that Section 702 could run afoul of Americans civil liberties, a growing number of Republicans have begun to criticize the program amid a broader campaign against what they argue is political bias within federal law enforcement agencies.

Pushback has grown intense enough that the White House and intelligence officials say theyre worried that Congress could allow the program to sunset.

At the heart of the matter are concerns that Section 702 has been used by the FBI to collect the information of Americans who are in communication with surveilled foreigners. A court opinion released last month disclosed that FBI employees wrongly searched foreign surveillance data for the last names of a U.S. senator and a state senator.

Another court document unsealed in May revealed that the FBI had inappropriately used the tool more than 278,000 times against suspected Jan. 6 rioters, Black Lives Matter protesters and others.

Top intelligence and law enforcement officials say that the program has played a crucial role in disrupting fentanyl trafficking and that, without it, they could face serious setbacks in their effort to crack down on the drug, which is responsible for most overdose deaths in Florida and nationally.

Clare Lattanze, the deputy communications director for Scotts office, said that the senator will consider any changes to Section 702 that provide the substantial reforms and accountability that the American people deserve and need for public trust.

She added that real discussions about the reauthorization of the program cant begin until the Justice Department and FBI reassure lawmakers and the public that agents who abused the program have been disciplined.

Section 702 is designed and intended to target foreign intelligence information that may be used as a tool to crack down on fentanyl and bust trafficking operations, but it does not justify employees abuse of authority for unlawful spying on American citizens, Lattanza said.

Between 2018 and 2021  the last full year for which data is available  the number of fentanyl and fentanyl-analogue deaths in Florida more than doubled from 3,755 to 9,218, according to annual reports from the Florida Medical Examiners Commission. That trend largely held up in Miami, where deaths jumped from 294 to 532 in the same three-year period.

In Fort Lauderdale, the increase was even more severe; fentanyl and fentanyl-analogue-related deaths rose from 397 to nearly 1,100 between 2018 to 2021.

For his part, Scott has introduced a bevy of legislation aimed at cracking down on the transport and distribution of fentanyl, including one measure unveiled late last month that would require social media platforms to work more closely with law enforcement officials investigating the sale of fentanyl and other illicit drugs online.

Scott, a former two-term governor whos running for reelection to his Senate seat next year, hadnt yet arrived in Washington the last time lawmakers voted to reauthorize Section 702.

U.S. Sen. Marco Rubio , who currently serves as the vice chair of the Senate Intelligence Committee, backed the provisions reauthorization five years ago and has signaled that he will do so once again this year.

Speaking at a national security and intelligence conference just outside of Washington, D.C. last month, Rubio said that Section 702 was foundational for U.S. intelligence gathering and a failure to reauthorize the program would dramatically hinder the governments intelligence operations at virtually every turn.

Frankly, if were not going to have 702 then were going to be able to save a lot of money on the intelligence budget next year because so much of what we do and are able to do on every level, from analysis and more  this is foundational to it, Rubio said.
The Russian Defense Ministry claimed that air defense units shot down two drones flying over Tula Oblast on the night of Aug. 29.

No casualties were reported.

Earlier on Aug. 29, the ministry claimed that two drones were destroyed over Belgorod Oblast.

The Russian Defense Ministry attributed the attempted drone strike to Ukraine, though Kyiv has yet to comment.

Drone strikes within Russian territory have been on the rise in recent weeks. On Aug. 28, the ministry claimed that two drones were destroyed in Bryansk Oblast.

Read also: Kyiv, Moscows opposing attitudes toward Soviet past shape two different futures

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Binance, the world's largest cryptocurrency exchange, is reassessing its Russian business and considering the possibility of a complete exit from the once important market.

"All options are on the table, including a full exit," a company spokesperson told U.S. newspaper the Wall Street Journal on Aug. 28.

Read also: Dominos Pizza initiates bankruptcy proceedings for Russian business

A week earlier, WSJ reported that Binance was helping Russians move money abroad. The company previously said it had stopped operating in Russia last year, was complying with Western sanctions, and had restricted trading on its platform in Russia.

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Binance later restricted P2P trading involving Russian banks that were sanctioned.

Read also: Russia can finance war in Ukraine for another year despite sanctions

Binance is also under scrutiny in the United States, where it has lawsuits from securities regulators and criticism from politicians, including Senator Elizabeth Warren.

Though Binance admitted to previous violations, the company said it had changed its approach and is now complying with regulations. It further restricted its Russian P2P trading service on Aug. 28, prohibiting users in Russia from exchanging digital tokens for currencies other than rubles. Binance also banned Russian residents from buying and selling dollars and euros through its P2P service.

P2P services allow users to bypass exchanges by making transactions directly with each other. Russians began to actively use P2P services, including Binances, to transfer money abroad after Russias full-scale invasion of Ukraine.

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Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
Russia plans to produce 1,300 Shahed kamikaze drones by the end of 2023, Vadym Skibitsky, a representative of the Main Intelligence Directorate or HUR of Ukraine, said in an interview with news agency RBC-Ukraine published on Aug. 29.

Skibitsky revealed that Russia is currently engaged in establishing a robust manufacturing capability for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) within its own borders.

Read also: Russia, Iran building combat drone factory in Tatarstan  report

"Preliminary data from military intelligence indicate that the enemy has planned to produce 1,300 units of the so-called Geran-2, or 'Shaheds', in the second half of this year," Skibitsky said.

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The HUR spokesman said that the Russians could use components of both foreign and domestic manufacture to make the drones, and that they are evading Western sanctions to procure some components.

"At the same time, they are not capable of producing such a number of UAVs as things stand," he said.

Read also: New drone factory in Russia could significantly impact war in Ukraine  report

He added that Ukrainian intelligence is seeking to find the exact locations of where Russia produces the UAVs.

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said on Aug. 3 that the Russian military had attacked Ukraine with at least 1,961 Shahed attack drones since the beginning of Russias full-scale invasion of Ukraine more than 18 months ago.

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The Institute for the Study of War (ISW) suggests that the Russians "almost certainly" will not be able to resume "offensive operations at scale" entrusted to infantry, which is in short supply in Russia.

Source: ISW

Details: The review notes that Ukrainian officials have officially acknowledged that the Defence Forces have liberated Robotyne as Ukrainian forces continued to advance in the western part of Zaporizhzhia Oblast and near Bakhmut.

At the same time, the report said, Russian military commanders continue to deploy relatively elite Russian airborne troops, using them to defend vulnerable positions against Ukrainian counteroffensives.

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ISW has previously noted that units of almost all Russian airborne units are operating in areas where Ukrainian troops are conducting counteroffensive operations, and this lateral redeployment again indicates that the occupiers may be using relatively elite units to reinforce critical sectors on the front line.

The analysts add that the Russian military command has steadily relied on the VDV (76th Guards Air Assault Division) formations for both offensive and defensive forces. The decline of these forces is likely to weaken Russia's ability to maintain complex defensive operations. In addition, it will almost certainly frustrate Russian intentions to resume large-scale offensive operations, which relied heavily on relatively elite infantry, which is currently in short supply in Russia.

Experts have not ignored statements by Ukrainian officials that Russian forces may want to resume a broader campaign against Ukrainian critical infrastructure in autumn 2023, but they estimate that Russia has likely not replenished its missile stockpile after the scale of the winter 2022-2023 strikes.

Ukrainian officials have assessed that any future Russian strike campaign could use new tactics involving fewer missiles and more drones.

ISW has previously reported on the Russian military's capacity to innovate and learn throughout the war.

To quote the ISWs Takeaways on 28 August:

Ukrainian officials formally acknowledged that Ukrainian forces liberated Robotyne amid continued Ukrainian advances in western Zaporizhia Oblast and near Bakhmut.

The Russian military command continues to expend relatively elite Russian airborne forces by deploying these troops to defend vulnerable positions against Ukrainian counter offensives.

A Ukrainian intelligence official indicated that Russian forces may have marginally replenished their stocks of high-precision missiles through conservation in the summer of 2023.

Ukrainian officials stated that Russian forces may intend to resume a wider campaign against Ukrainian critical infrastructure in the autumn of 2023, but assessed Russia likely has not replenished its missile stocks to sustain a campaign on the scale of the winter 2022-2023 strikes.

Ukrainian officials assessed that any upcoming Russian strike campaign may employ new tactics that use fewer missiles and more drones.

Russian milbloggers continued to criticise the Russian Ministry of Defence (MoD) for ignoring ultranationalists complaints over the mistreatment of a Southern Military District (SMD) brigade operating in the Kherson direction.

Russian forces conducted offensive operations on the Kupyansk-Svatove-Kreminna line, near Bakhmut, along the Avdiivka-Donetsk City line, and in western Donetsk, and did not make any confirmed advances.

Russian lawmakers and the Russian information space expressed varied opinions about a proposed Russian State Duma bill that would deprive individuals of their acquired Russian citizenship for evading military registration and mobilisation.

The Ukrainian Main Military Intelligence Directorate (GUR) reported on 28 August that partisans created an explosion at the barracks of a Chechen "Akhmat-1" Rosgvardia riot police (OMON) unit in Enerhodar in occupied Zaporizhia Oblast.

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A new wave of conscription into the Russian Armed Forces is being prepared in temporarily occupied Crimea.

Source: Representative Office of the Ukrainian President in the Autonomous Republic of Crimea on Facebook

Quote: "The occupying administration is launching draft points right on the central embankment. One of them is actively working in the city of Alushta. This is because the Russians are preparing a new wave of mobilisation in occupied Crimea.

Specifically, they [the Russian occupying authorities] are holding meetings and briefings in the Sevastopol military enlistment office. Military draft notices will be handed out accompanied by police or Russian National Guard officers. Particular attention will be paid to the so-called evaders. The occupiers are planning to mobilise up to 30,000 people and draft up to 10,000 conscripts."

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Details: Volunteer instructors provide military training courses in occupied Crimea. They teach theory and practice to all "interested" people: military field medicine, small arms skills, drone control and mountaineering.

Classes are held in the field, and tasks are formulated based on the "experience" of the war against Ukraine. Over a hundred people aged 12 to 60 have attended such courses in the city of Feodosia.

Furthermore, the Ukrainian President's Representative Office in Crimea recalls that Putin signed a decree under which the "operational headquarters" of occupied Crimea will be able to "coordinate" the work of military units and involve citizens in "protection and fighting against saboteurs voluntarily".

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Russia has sent its elite paratroopers to curb Ukraine's advancing counteroffensive.

Moscow's VDV Airborne Forces were deployed to several locations along the sprawling front line.

War experts say the resulting degradation will hinder efforts to use these troops at a later date.

Ukraine is advancing, and it's forcing Russia to deploy some of its most elite troops to try and curb Kyiv's forward progress in its ongoing counteroffensive. But in doing so, Moscow appears to be throwing away soldiers it may need later.

The VDV Airborne Forces, a branch of Russia's military, has long been considered an elite band of paratroopers, but they've suffered heavy casualties throughout the full-scale war in Ukraine. These troops, which Russia relies on heavily for offensive actions, had recently been called up to fight on defense in several locations where Ukraine was executing its offensive operations, war experts wrote in an analysis this week.

"This lateral redeployment further suggests that Russian forces may be using relatively elite units to reinforce critical sectors of the frontline," experts at the Institute for the Study of War, a Washington-based think tank, said in a late Monday assessment.

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Russian VDV units have been transferred from the Kherson and Luhansk regions to support Russia's defensive efforts in Zaporizhzhia and Bakhmut, respectively. Zaporizhzhia, an occupied region in the south, and Bakhmut, a war-torn city in the east, are two directions where Ukrainian forces are pressing on with their counteroffensive, which is advancing at a slow but steady pace despite some early setbacks and a stiff Russian defense.

"The Russian military command has consistently relied on VDV formations as both an offensive and a defensive force and they are likely degraded from their high operational tempo," ISW experts wrote in their analysis, arguing that burning the candle at both ends risked exhausting this elite force in a way that could be a detriment for Russia later in the war.

"The degradation of these forces," ISW said, "will likely weaken Russia's ability to sustain complex defensive operations and almost certainly disrupt any Russian intent to resume offensive operations at scale, which have predominantly relied on relatively elite infantry that Russia now lacks."

The VDV is just one of a number of so-called "elite" Russian units that have been battered over the course of the war. Special forces have taken a beating, as have infantry units like the 155th Naval Infantry Brigade, which has suffered heavy losses and been backfilled with inexperienced Russian troops.

Ukrainian soldiers in their positions on the frontline in the Zaporizhzhia region of Ukraine in June. AP Photo/Efrem Lukatsky, File

Misuse of so-called elite soldiers has plagued Russia's war planning since the early days of the 2022 invasion, with some special-operations forces being assigned to missions that they weren't designed to partake in and that perhaps should have gone to more conventional units. One striking example of this happened at the very start of the war when Moscow's Spetsnaz commandos were dispatched to reconnaissance roles with conventional forces instead of being the first soldiers to carry out the assault on Kyiv.

The VDV were part of early operations and were heavily utilized at the start of the war, which Russia largely botched. These paratroopers suffered huge losses during the initial phase of the war and continued to endure steep casualties in the following months.

Col. Gen. Mikhail Teplinsky, the VDV commander, disclosed earlier this month that at least 8,500 of his troops were wounded in the fighting, though that figure purportedly only included troops who returned to the front lines or refused to leave in the first place. Teplinsky did not mention wounded troops who didn't return to combat, nor did he disclose how many soldiers died of their wounds, suggesting the actual casualty figure could be significantly higher.

Teplinsky's comments  delivered via video to a broadcasting platform run by Russia's defense ministry  were a rare admission of the impact of the fighting on Russian forces from Moscow's military leadership, which often avoids disclosing hardship or setbacks to the public. Several hours later, though, the remarks were removed from the website.

A Ukrainian soldier in his position on the frontline in the Zaporizhzhia region of Ukraine in June. AP Photo/Efrem Lukatsky

Though Teplinsky left out key casualty information from his address, Britain's defense ministry assessed in a defense-intelligence update several days later that at least half of the 30,000 paratroopers who were deployed to Ukraine had been killed or wounded in combat.

A month later, as VDV forces reposition to blunt Kyiv's counteroffensive, it's unclear if that number has grown.

Ukrainian forces continue to make limited gains in the occupied eastern and southern regions, but faster progress has been hindered by Russia's formidable and complex defensive lines, which consist of minefields, trenches, and anti-armor fortifications.

Because clearing these deadly obstacles is a painstaking process, officials in Kyiv and some in the capital cities of its Western military backers have pushed back on bleak assessments and criticism that paint the offensive in a negative light.

"We do not assess that the conflict is a stalemate," the White House national security advisor, Jake Sullivan, told reporters last week amid concerns about slow progress. "As I noted before, we continue to support Ukraine in its effort to take territory as part of its counteroffensive, and we are seeing it continue to take territory on a methodical, systematic basis."

Meanwhile, Ukraine's defense ministry confirmed this week that its forces liberated Robotyne, a small village in the Zaporizhzhia region, and published a video of its soldiers raising the flag on top of a building there.

"Thank you to all your brothers-in-arms," Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said in a Sunday address to the nation. "And to all our other warriors of different ranks, from different units, who are doing everything possible to ensure that our flag is in all its rightful places, throughout the territory of our state."

Read the original article on Business Insider
The Russians injured a 75-year-old man in Kherson Oblast.

Source: Kherson Oblast Military Administration on Telegram

Quote: "The Russians pummelled [the settlement of] Olhivka. A 75-year-old man was injured. His lower limb was injured. He was taken to the hospital. Doctors are providing the necessary assistance."

Background:

On 29 August, a tractor driver died after hitting a Russian mine in the area of Novopetrivka in Kherson Oblast during field work.

The Ukrainian flag has been raised by soldiers of the Armed Forces of Ukraine on the left bank of the Dnipro River in Kherson Oblast, over the district of Dachi, which is now a "grey zone".

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On 29 August, the Russian-controlled Supreme Court of Crimea upheld the verdict in the case of Appaz Kurtamet, a Crimean Tatar who was accused of donating to members of Ukrainian volunteer battalions.

Source: the Crimean Process initiative

Details: During its consideration of the appeal, the panel of judges of the Supreme Court of Crimea recognised one of the pieces of evidence taken into account when the case was heard in the court of first instance as inadmissible. However, it saw no reason to overturn the verdict or revise the sentence.

Background:

Kurtamet was detained by Russian security forces at the administrative border with temporarily occupied Crimea, where he was heading to visit relatives, on 23 July 2022. All contact with him was lost that same day, and his whereabouts remained unknown until 8 October. The Russian occupiers began his show trial at the end of February this year.

In April 2023, the Russian-controlled Kyiv District Court of Simferopol sentenced Kurtamet to up to 7 years imprisonment for allegedly transferring 500 hryvnias (about US$14) to the Crimea volunteer battalion.

According to the investigators, he transferred the funds to a representative of the battalion. Ukrainian Human Rights Commissioner Dmytro Lubinets says the young man lent this money to a friend who was actually well-off at the time.

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FILE PHOTO: A newly installed direction sign "Donetsk People's Republic Square" is seen in front of the U.S. embassy in Moscow

(Reuters) - A Moscow court on Tuesday extended for three months the detention of a former U.S. consular employee accused of gathering information for Washington on the war in Ukraine and other issues, Tass news agency reported.

Tass quoted the press service of the Lefortovo court as saying that a three-month extension requested by investigators until Nov. 23 had been granted for the detention of Robert Shonov, a Russian national.

The Tass report said Shonov had acknowledged his guilt in passing on information to U.S. diplomats.

U.S. State Department Spokesperson Matthew Miller on Monday repeated the U.S. position that the allegations against Shonov were "wholly without merit."

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Miller said the action against Shonov "only highlights the increasingly repressive actions the Russian government is taking against its own citizens".

Shonov was employed by the U.S. Consulate General in the eastern Russian city of Vladivostok for more than 25 years until Russia in 2021 ordered the termination of the U.S. mission's local staff.

Washington says he was subsequently employed via a company contracted to the U.S. embassy to summarize news reports.

Russia's FSB security service has said it plans to question U.S. embassy employees who were in contact with Shonov, who has been under arrest since May.

The FSB said Shonov relayed information to U.S. embassy staffers in Moscow on how Russia's conscription campaign was impacting political discontent ahead of the 2024 presidential election in Russia.

Miller said Washington was aware the FSB had also summoned two diplomats working at the U.S. embassy in Moscow in connection to the case.

(Reporting by Reuters; Editing by Ron Popeski and Sandra Maler)
The Russian Ministry of Defence (MoD) has claimed that a Russian naval aircraft supposedly shot down a Ukrainian drone over the Black Sea on the afternoon of 29 August.

Source: Russian MoD on Telegram

Details: The drone was supposedly destroyed around 12:00.

The Russians have not provided any evidence of this, as per usual.

Background:

Earlier, the sources of Ukrainska Pravda in the Security Service of Ukraine reported that on 25 August, Ukrainian defence forces, together with the Security Service of Ukraine, launched a drone strike on the base of the 126th Brigade of the Russian Black Sea Fleet, deployed in the village of Perevalne in temporarily occupied Crimea. So far, several dozen Russians are reported to have been killed or wounded.

On 28 August, the Special Operation Forces showed the UAVs used in that attack.

On the afternoon of 28 August, Russian occupiers reported a drone and missile attack on Crimea; they also claimed to have shot down all aerial targets.

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The post with the Ukrainian Crimea was devoted to the dreams of the Russian Federation about BRICS expansion

The Russian Embassy in South Africa found itself in an uncomfortable position after inadvertently revealing that the Crimean Peninsula, claimed by Russia, is not actually its territory.

The Kremlins diplomatic missions official Twitter account posted a world map in which the Russian-occupied peninsula was shown as it is in actual fact under international law  an integral part of Ukraine.

Read also: Russian Embassy in Sweden posts map with Crimea as part of Ukraine

Reflecting the realities of the new multipolar world, read the accompanying caption, as Russian diplomats spoke about the expansion of the BRICS grouping of countries.

RoksolanaKrim/X

However, as dissent began to come in from Russian social media uses  questioning why they were suddenly deprived of the peninsula  the candid post was swiftly deleted.

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Russia falsely claims to have annexed Crimea, which remains part of Ukrainian territory according to international law.

The Ukrainian territory has been under Russian military occupation since being invaded by Russian forces in late February 2014.



Read also:

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Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
A month ago, Arkady Babchenko threw eggs at the Russian embassy in Tallinn, and was detained.

The blogger and former Russian journalist Arkady Babchenko has been fined EUR 100 for throwing eggs at the Russian embassy in Tallinn, Estonia, local news agency ERR reported on Aug. 28

Babchenko spoke about the fine while appearing on Estonian televisions ETV+ channel, ERR wrote.

Read also: Estonia seeks clarification on PMs business ties to Russia

"Today I was fined EUR 100 euros. The whole thing cost me EUR 140, because I bought four eggs for 10 euros each," Babchenko said.

Babchenko said he would pay the fine because he "respects Estonian laws." He said he was not going to carry out any more such actions.

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"No, I'm not a repeat offender," he said.

The fine is to be paid no later than Sept. 13, according to the court ruling. Babchenko was detained in Estonia for throwing eggs at the Russian embassy in Tallinn at the end of July.

Read also: Russia wants to restore its influence in Baltic states by 2030, strategy documents show

The blogger published an excerpt of the ruing of the Estonian court on his page on Facebook. According to the ruling, his actions were classified as a violation of public order in a public place.

"I adore Estonia, Babchenko said. Throwing eggs at the Russian embassy is supposed to be equivalent to throwing garbage in a place not designated for this purpose, such as polluting a reservoir or a fountain. Yes, but (Russia) is a swamp, not a fountain."

The journalist is an ardent critic of the Kremlin regime and actively supports Ukraine in its war against the Russian invaders. He also collects money for cars and other needs of the Ukrainian military.

Babchenko left Russia In 2017 and moved to Ukraine due to his disagreements with the regime of Russian dictator Vladimir Putin. In 2018, the SBU staged his murder, as Russian special services were preparing an assassination attempt on the journalist. The SBU said the staging of the murder allowed the agency to uncover the plans of the Russian special services.

Babchenko has been on Russias list of terrorists and extremists since 2020, and since 2023 he has been included on its register of "foreign agents."

Read also: Estonia insists on clear path for Ukraines NATO membership

Babchenko left Ukraine in 2019 and went to live in Israel. He moved to Estonia recently.





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Igor Girkin also know as Igor Strelkov, the former military chief for Russia-backed separatists in eastern Ukraine, sits in a glass cage in a courtroom at the Moscow's City Court in Moscow, Russia, on Tuesday, Aug. 29, 2023. A prominent Russian hard-line nationalist who accused President Vladimir Putin of weakness and indecision in Ukraine was detained on charges of extremism. (AP Photo/Alexander Zemlianichenko)

MOSCOW (AP)  A Moscow court has ruled that a prominent hard-line nationalist who accused Russian President Vladimir Putin of weakness and indecision in Ukraine should remain in prison on charges of extremism.

Igor Strelkov, a retired security officer who led Moscow-backed separatists in eastern Ukraine in 2014 and was convicted of murder in the Netherlands for his role in the downing of a Malaysia Airlines passenger jet that year, has argued that a total mobilization is needed for Russia to achieve victory. He has previously criticized Putin as a nonentity and a cowardly mediocrity.

Moscows District Court ordered the 52-year-old Strelkov, whose real name is Igor Girkin, to remain in custody until Sept. 18. Strelkov was arrested July 21 and faces charges of making calls for extremist activities. He could receive five years in prison if convicted.

Strelkov's legal team had argued for him to be held under house arrest, citing health issues.

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Strelkov's wife, Miroslava Reginskaya, speaking after the ruling, said, the court decision is unfair and we will appeal.

Strelkov's arrest has been interpreted as a signal that the Kremlin has toughened its approach with hawkish critics after the abortive rebellion by Yevgeny Prigozhin's Wagner mercenary company in June.

Strelkov was arrested nearly a month after a short-lived mutiny launched by Prigozhin that saw Wagner troops capture military headquarters in the southern city of Rostov-on-Don and then drive as close as 200 kilometers (125 miles) to Moscow to demand the ouster of Russias top military leaders.

Prigozhin was killed Aug. 23 when the plane he was traveling in crashed. US intelligence has said the crash was likely intentional and multiple Western leaders have suggested Putin was behind it.

The revolt posed the most serious threat to Putins 23-year rule, eroding his authority and exposing government weakness.

Like Prigozhin, Strelkov harshly criticized Russias military leaders for incompetence, but he also denounced the Wagner chief and described his action as treason and a major threat to the Russian state. The two repeatedly had traded insults, and Strelkovs supporters said a criminal inquiry into his statements has been initiated by one of Wagners mercenaries.
Ukraine is demanding the extradition of Jan Petrovsky from Finland.

A Russian militant from the neo-Nazi Rusych group, Jan Petrovsky, who was detained in Finland, has requested that he be extradited to the Russian Federation, the Russian embassy in Finland has said in a statement.

Russian consuls and a lawyer visited Petrovsky in a Finnish prison, the embassy said.

Read also: Finland prepares new military aid package for Ukraine

The statement from the embassy reads that the militant expressed his desire to return to Russia as soon as possible. He allegedly has no complaints about the circumstances of his detention.

Finnish police detained the militant Petrovsky at Helsinki-Vantaa airport on July 20 on suspicion of immigration violations when he and his family were traveling to France to visit relatives.

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Read also: Finland seizes Russian Scientific and Cultural Center land and building in Helsinki

Ukraines Prosecutor General's Office reported on Aug. 25 that a Russian citizen suspected of being a member of a terrorist organization had been detained in Finland. Preparations for Petrovskys extradition to Ukraine are currently underway.

Ukrainian investigators say that in 2014, the suspect, together with members of the LPR terrorist organization (Luhansk Peoples Republic, a sham republic set up by the Kremlin after Russian invaded part of Ukraines Donbas region in 2014), took part in military clashes on the territory of Ukraine as part of the Rusych sabotage-assault intelligence group.

Petrovsky went to live in Finland under an assumed name and because his wife is studying there. He received a permit for one year of residence in Finland under the name of Vojislav Torden.

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Another echelon of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation has arrived in Belarus to participate in Collective Security Treaty Organisation (CSTO) exercises.

Source: Belaruski Hajun, an independent Belarusian military monitoring media outlet; Military Media Center

Details: Belaruski Hajun reports that on 29 August, at about 07:30, the next train with the military of the Russian Armed Forces arrived in Brest.

They came to Belarus to participate in joint exercises with the Collective Security Treaty Organisation's (CSTO) Rapid Response Forces Interaction-2023, which will be held in Belarus on 1-6 September.

A second Russian military echelon has arrived in Belarus since mid-August

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PHOTO: Belaruski Hajun

Belaruski Hajun notes that several exercises will be held in Belarus at the same time:

Search-2023 with intelligence forces;

Echelon-2023 with the material and technical support forces of the troops;

Barrier-2023 with the joint Radiological, Chemical and Biological Defence troops and medical support unit;

Cliff-2023 (Skala) with divisions of the Ministry of Emergency Situations.

Belarusian observers report this is the second echelon of the Russian Armed Forces that arrived in Brest to participate in the CSTO exercises. The first one arrived on the evening of 18 August.

   -  

Russian soldiers are welcomed with bread and salt in Belarus

PHOTO: Belaruski Hajun

Serhii Naiev, Commander of the Joint Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, said that the Russian ground component had been entirely withdrawn from Belarus, but in September, a number of CSTO exercises (Echelon, Search and Interaction) are planned on the territory of Belarus, which "can be used as legitimising the military presence build-up".

Belaruski Hajun denied this: "There has been a significant reduction in the number of Russian troops in Belarus, but there is no question of a full withdrawal".

According to Belarusian observers, since the beginning of July, the field camps of the Russian Armed Forces have been liquidated at the Obuz-Lesnovsky, Lepelsky and Osipovitsky training grounds, but the Russian military continues to be stationed at the Mozyr (Bokov) and Zyabrivka airfields, at the Baranovichi radio technical hub and at the 43rd Vileika communications hub.

At the moment, Belaruski Hajun estimates the number of Russian Armed Forces troops in the above locations alone at approximately 2,000 people.

On 1-6 September, Belarus will host the CSTO exercise Combat Brotherhood-2023. More than 2,500 military personnel will take part in the exercise, of which approximately 300 will be from Russia.

Quote from Naiev: "Taking into account that Russia has not achieved its strategic goals, the search for new reasons for resuming active actions on the northern front is not excluded in the future. Therefore, the organisation of provocations and sabotage on the Ukrainian-Belarusian border is not excluded.

At the same time, no signs of the formation of strike groups in the Pivnich (North) operational-strategic group zone have been exposed. The existing set of cover troops of the Armed Forces of Belarus and the cover group of the state border from the Zapad (West) group are mainly ready to conduct deterrent and defensive actions on its territory.

However, the risk of using sabotage and reconnaissance forces from the territory of Belarus is not excluded, so we are already taking measures to improve our counter-sabotage and defence capabilities."

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The Russian Ministry of Defense has reported that two Ukrainian drones were shot down on Aug. 28 over Belgorod Oblast. The incident could not be independently verified.

The spring and summer months have seen an increase in cross-border attacks by Ukrainian forces.

After a July 30 drone attack on Moscow, President Volodymyr Zelensky explained in an address that hostilities will increase within Russia. "Gradually, the war is returning to the territory of Russia - to its symbolic centers and military bases, and this is an inevitable, natural and absolutely fair process," he said.

Roughly 40 kilometers from the border of Ukraine, Belgorod has already experienced some consequences of the war. In May, the Ukrainian-allied Russian Volunteer Corps and the Freedom of Russia Legion launched incursions into the Belgorod region, advancing to Gayvoron before withdrawing back to Ukraine. Further raids occurred in June, and in July a video allegedly showing Chechen paramilitaries attacking a Russian military vehicle near Belgorod emerged online.

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The BBC has recorded at least 160 Russian media reports of suspected Ukrainian drone attacks within Russia and Russian-occupied Crimea this year so far.

In one high-profile incident, a drone detonated near the Kremlin on May 3, though Kyiv has denied responsibility for the attack. Moscow has also claimed a drone was shot down near the capital, in addition to the two near Belgorod.

The Ukrainian Ministry of Defense has not commented on today's alleged attack.

Read also: Ukraine war latest: Ukraine liberates Robotyne, Zaporizhzhia Oblast

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Its never funny when someone dies. Unless that someone is the murdering, torturing, raping, pillaging Yevgeny Prigozhin . Then it's at least kind of funny.

I mean yes, yes, yes, it might have been preferable to sort out his crimes in a court of law with due process and all that yak, but where were you going to find a jury of his peers, the cast of Reservoir Dogs?

If nothing else,  Putin s Chef is guilty of being a dope. His death was as assured as a happy ending for the Hardy Boys.

Tim Rowland

Or, as the news sites qualify it, the presumed death, apparent death, alleged death, seeming death, likely death and so on. Never has death been so equivocal. But then, this is Russia, where black is white, friend is foe, and up is down  literally, seeing as so many Russians demonstrate a remarkable lack of balance on fifth-floor verandas.

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The implication is that no one is going to be surprised if down the road the P-dog all of a sudden appears on Jeopardy or something. Ill take faked deaths for $500 please.

Prigozhin was known to employ body doubles, even though its hard to believe there are two guys on this earth who look like that. It would be like trying to find a stand-in for Jar Jar Binks.

More: Decorated Ukrainian pilot 'Juice' killed in crash; Prigozhin death confirmed: Live updates

The fact that he wasnt using a double suggests his brutishness was not matched by intelligence. I mean, if not now, when? There are two rules in life: 1. Dont put ketchup on a hot dog. 2. Dont go running around Prostornaya Street as yourself after trying to overthrow the government.

Even Putin seemed to hold his breath until the DNA swab came back from the lab, commenting, He made some serious mistakes in life, but he also achieved necessary results. In syntax, meter and doublespeak, this so resembled our own former leaders Theyre bringing drugs, theyre bringing crime, theyre rapists. And some, I assume, are good people, that you wonder if they dont have the same speechwriter.

The necessary results, safe to say, is livestreaming the bashing in of a persons skull with a sledge hammer. But then he went too far by organizing a bloodless march on Moscow. In Russia, its all funny until someone doesnt get hurt.

Not that the Kremlin had anything to do with the crash, of course. It was probably just a clogged fuel filter or something.

Although if you want plausible deniability you really should wait until the plane hits the ground before identifying Prigozhin as among the dead. It is with deep sadness that we  what? (whisper whisper whisper). Oh, wait a sec. KABOOM! OK, as I was saying, it is with great sadness 

Most of us watched Putin v. Prigozhin play out with the bland indifference with which a Ravens fan watches Steelers v. Patriots. Somebodys got to lose, so were good.

U.S. intelligence, which seems to know more about Russia than Russia does, grudgingly implied that the borderline psychotic Putin (I can say that, not having any air travel planned at the moment) was the more normal of the two. Or at least the more nominally civilized  the difference in Russia apparently being whether you do the murdering yourself or outsource it to someone else.

And for Russia, that would seem to be a problem. Putin wants nothing more than to be seen as an equal on the grand, modern global stage, which is going to be difficult when youre in the business of assassinating political rivals like some deerskin-wearing medieval warlord.

Putin sees himself as the second coming of Peter the Great. OK, but while Peter was certainly better than his predecessors, no one was coming to Peters Russia to build semiconductor factories. Corporate CEOs arent big on countries where theyre liable to get broken on the wheel or shot out of the air.

Theyre funny that way.

Tim Rowland is a Herald-Mail columnist.

This article originally appeared on The Herald-Mail: Yevgeny Prigozhin's demise a little too obviously organized by Kremlin
Three civilians were injured by Russian shelling on Aug. 28 in Ukraine's northeastern Sumy Oblast.

Over the course of the day, Russian forces shelled the region 23 times, resulting in 156 recorded explosions. The communities Velyka Pysarivka, Putyvl, Esman, Yunakivka, Bilopillia, Krasnopillia, Khotin, Znob-Novgorodske, and Seredyna-Buda were shelled, according to the Sumy Regional Military Administration.

The three civilians were injured in the community of Seredyna-Buda, located along the Russian border, after a series of mortars damaged a city library, an administrative building, and a private residential building.

This follows the shelling of eight communities in the Sumy region yesterday that resulted in 171 explosions.

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Russian forces withdrew from Sumy Oblast in April of last year, though the shelling continues almost daily.

Read also: Ukraine war latest: Ukraine liberates Robotyne, Zaporizhzhia Oblast

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The Russian occupiers are forcing residents of the settlement of Chaplynka, Kherson Oblast, to obtain Russian passports by 1 September, otherwise the Russians are threatening to take away their properties.

Source: General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine

Quote: "The Russian occupiers are continuing to force the population in the temporarily occupied territory of Kherson Oblast to obtain Russian passports.

The occupation administration in the settlement of Chaplynka informed local residents of the requirement to obtain Russian passports by 1 September of this year."

Details: The General Staff said if this requirement is not met, the Russian occupiers are threatening to confiscate property.

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Also, the report said since 23 August, the Russian invaders have been carrying out raids to evict citizens from their homes without registering their place of residence and appropriating their property.

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Czech President Petr Pavel has said that Russia cannot be allowed to win the war against Ukraine because its aggression will undermine the international order built on agreed rules and cooperation. That is why support for Ukraine is critically important.

Source: a speech by the Czech president to ambassadors in Prague Castle on Tuesday; European Pravda, with reference to Czech news agency CTK

Quote: "We already have experience [of this], and there is no need to speculate that Russia will never accept its loss of political influence on our country. And it is also obvious that such an outcome would inspire other countries that think the same as Russia."

Details: The Czech president stressed that Russia's victory in the full-scale war against Ukraine cannot be allowed, and "Russias aggression and increasing assertiveness threaten to undermine the international order based on agreed rules and cooperation."

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Separately, Pavel explained that he considered support for Ukraine not only a matter of solidarity and morally right but also critical to ensure the security of Czechia.

He also called for conditions to be created for Ukraine to become a full member of the EU and NATO after the war ends and the necessary criteria are met.

Background:

In June, the Czech government approved a report by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs reconsidering its relations with Russia, in which it described Russia as a source of threats and security risks for the Czech Republic and Europe in the coming decades unless there is a fundamental transformation of Russian society.

Czech Foreign Minister Jan Lipavsky said earlier that Prague saw no prospect of improving relations with Russia, even if its leadership changes, until the country undergoes significant changes and ceases to be a threat to its neighbours.

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Caltrans this month unveiled full-color highway message boards to communicate roadway conditions to drivers that will complete testing Friday and go live during September, state transportation officials said, including in Californias capital region.

Approximately 28 signs currently read CMS Test in Prog(ress); Ends 09/01/2023. They dot Highway 50 in El Dorado and Sacramento counties; Interstate 5 in Sacramento County; and Highway 70 and Highway 99 in Butte County, according to a California Department of Transportation news release.

The new changeable message signs will allow Caltrans to display reliable, real-time travel and traffic safety information using high-resolution color text and images during both day- and night-time driving conditions, said Caltrans District 3 Director Amarjeet Benipal in a statement.

Benipal said the signs will also display pictorial messages that aim to better communicate roadway conditions to non-English-speaking drivers.

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Each sign costs roughly $90,000, according to Caltrans spokesman Gilbert Mohtes-Chan.

The new boards will supplement 79 existing changeable message in eight counties, officials said. Existing boards only display amber text, where pixels often go out and garble messages, authorities said.

State transportation officials said studies indicate changeable message signs can improve traffic flow and slow down drivers who are traveling over the speed limit in poor weather.
Wendi Fisher flew from Illinois to be at her ex-husbands bedside after he was transferred from Sacramento County Main Jail to the hospital. Norman Fisher was in a coma when she arrived. He died May 27 at age 47.

The only reason The Sacramento Bee learned Norman Fishers name was because Wendi identified him.

Unlike the other five downtown jail inmates who have died so far this year, the Sheriffs Office did not issue a news release or social media post to inform the public. As a result, there was no media coverage.

Wendi Fisher noticed.

I feel heartbroken, Wendi Fisher said. Its like he didnt matter.

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There has been a more consistent public announcement of inmate deaths in the past two years, but the Sheriffs Office has a history of failing to notify the public of jail deaths. In August 2021 a Bee investigation revealed the office failed to announce multiple inmate deaths.

Sheriffs Office spokesman Sgt. Amar Gandhi did not respond to an email asking why the office did not announce Norman Fishers death.

Six Sacramento jail inmates have died this year. They wont be independently investigated

Few details known

Norman Fisher lived in Woodland and worked in a carbon factory, Wendi Fisher said. He had two children, the youngest of whom is 13.

He loved to fish, barbecue and hang out with his friends, Wendi Fisher said. He loved to make people laugh. All kids loved him.

When he arrived in the jail in February, he was healthy, Wendi Fisher said. He then started to complain of being congested.

He was calling me all the time on the phone two to three times a day and was like, I dont feel good, I think I have a sinus infection, Wendi Fisher said. I tried to call the jail and they didnt answer.

The next time Wendi Fisher saw him, he was in a coma in the hospital, where he would stay for four days before dying. Its unknown what happened at the jail before he arrived at the hospital.

A new independent medical report revealed mistakes by jail medical staff preceding the deaths of several other inmates. But the report, prompted by a federal settlement in a 2019 class action lawsuit called the Mays Consent Decree, does not include Norman Fishers death.

The death certificate stated Norman Fishers cause of death was septic shock, a bacterial infection, acute kidney failure and pneumonia.

When it became clear Norman Fisher was going to die, the Sheriffs Office did a so-called compassionate release from custody, to allow Wendi Fisher to visit him. The Sheriffs Office has announced other inmates deaths who were on compassionate releases, including Justin Dean Smith, who died in August 2022.

Despite the compassionate release, the Sheriffs Office considered his an inmate death, because it told Inspector General Francine Tournour. She told the Community Review Commission, a Sheriffs Office oversight body, about the death May 30. She had few details, and did not share a name.

Mark Merin, a longtime Sacramento civil rights attorney, said the Sheriffs Office should announce all inmate deaths, including those on compassionate release.

When (an inmate) dies, its an event that has to be publicized, said Merin, who has sued the county multiple times over inmate deaths. The public obviously has an interest of improving the conditions of our jails ... The publication of deaths informs the public who can then respond by demanding appropriate improvements and change.

Wendi Fisher agreed. Shes disappointed that she never got a phone call explaining what happened, and she likely never will.

Just because a person is a criminal does not make them less of a person, Wendi Fisher said. Families should not have to worry when our loved ones are in jail that theyre not being taken care of. I understand he did something wrong. But what he did wrong did not need to cost him his life. They need to be held accountable for what goes on in the jails.
Recovery efforts are underway in Maui weeks after windswept wildfires killed at least 115 people and left nearly 400 others missing.

The Sacramento Kings and team owner Vivek Ranadive announced Tuesday they are donating nearly $100,000 to the Hawaii Community Foundations Maui Strong Fund to support individuals impacted by the devastating wildfires.

The Sacramento Kings Foundation, River Cats Foundation, Ranadive Foundation, Genevieve and Paul Jacobs, Debby and Hal Jacobs, Annie and Jeff Jacobs, GB Revocable Trust, John and Nancy Kehriotis, the Carlsen Family, Lisa Parker, and Michael and Holly Fahn are collectively donating $90,500, the team said.

Our hearts go out to everyone impacted by the catastrophic wildfires in Maui, Ranadive said in a news release. The beautiful island means so much to so many, and we are committed to supporting the resilient community and their recovery efforts.

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The Hawaii Community Foundation is working with state and county leaders, nonprofit organizations and community members on the Maui Strong Fund. The Maui Strong Fund was created to provide financial resources that can be deployed quickly with a focus on rapid response and recovery. The fund was created to provide food, shelter, financial assistance and other services to victims of the wildfires.

Anyone interested in giving can visit Kings.com/Maui to make a personal contribution.
More than half of Sacramentos population lives in areas that feel roughly 8 degrees warmer than their rural neighbors, a recent climate study found. Thats called an urban heat island effect.

When population dense cities swap green spaces for surfaces that absorb solar radiation  concrete, brick and pavement  residents receive boosts of extreme heat. A 2023 Urban Heat Hot Spots study from Climate Central, a climate change non-profit organization, found hot spots are on track to amplify heat stress, put vulnerable communities at risk and increase energy use across the nation.

For some, these conditions amplify the disparities that already exist.

Communities enduring the largest effects in Sacramento are downtown, Natomas Crossing and West Sacramento. Senior research associate Kaitlyn Trudeau with Climate Central said oftentimes communities with large populations of people of color and under resourced residents are hit the hardest.

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Those without homes are among the most vulnerable, oftentimes living on hot pavement without access to reliable water and air conditioning.

The area surrounding the Crocker Art Museum on O Street  from Capitol Mall to R Street and from the Sacramento River to Seventh Street  omits 9.8 degrees of additional heat, according to the study. That means if its 93 degrees in rural Sacramento County, it might be nearly 103 downtown.

I wonder, at what point are these places going to become not habitable, said Trudeau, who lives in Sacramento and is one of the leading data analysts in the urban heat island study.

Theres a certain limit to the amount of heat that our bodies can physiologically take.

Climate Central measured urban heat island index in nearly 19,000 census tracts across 44 large U.S. cities, which according to the U.S. Census Bureau, are tiny subdivisions in a county.

Indexes were then determined based on 2020 Census data and the variety of land cover  which includes water, trees and grass  compared to the distance between buildings.

How Sacramento heat spots compare to U.S. cities

Across the 44 U.S. cities, roughly 55% or 41 million people live in areas that radiate at least 8 degrees of additional heat.

Nearly 74 million people were included in the study.

The average urban heat island index by area ranged from 5.8 degrees in Las Vegas to 8.6 degrees in New York. These areas have the highest citywide averages, according to Climate Central:

New York - 8.6 degrees

Newark, New Jersey - 8.4 degrees

Miami - 8.3 degrees

Seattle - 8.1 degrees

New Orleans - 8 degrees

Detroit - 8 degrees

Chicago - 7.9 degrees

Minneapolis - 7.8 degrees

San Francisco - 7.7 degrees

Portland, Oregon - 7.7 degrees

Boston - 7.7 degrees

Dallas - 7.7 degrees

Baltimore - 7.7 degrees

Sacramentos citywide average is 7.1 degrees.

What are Sacramento city leaders doing?

The solution to reducing the urban heat island effect isnt as individual as turning the water off while brushing your teeth or using reusable totes to bag your groceries.

Trudeau said the biggest shifts will come from city leaders who implement changes like adding more green spaces in your area, painting roofs and pavement lighter colors and replacing rooftops with vegetation.

We cant change history, cant totally change our city, the Sacramento resident said but we can retrofit them, we can make changes to make them safer.

Jennifer Venema, the citys climate action lead, said the urban heat island effect is a key issue officials are working to address through its 2040 General Plan and Climate Action and Adaption Plan. Updates may include cool roofs in the communities that need them the most, new cooling amenities, shading and extreme heat services.

In an emailed statement, she said the city recently applied for a $5 million grant through the United States Department of Agriculture to expand green spaces in communities with access to few trees.

If or when funding is approved, it will take years before the trees mature and provide ample shading to residents.

In the meantime, Under the California Building Standards Code, new and certain remodels in the Sacramento region must be constructed with roofing material that reflect sun radiation rather than absorb it.

What do you want to know about life in Sacramento? Ask our service journalism team your top-of-mind questions in the module below or email servicejournalists@sacbee.com.
New Skin Tattoo Removal, a San Jose nonprofit, is setting up a new shop in Sacramento, expanding its services to offer more affordable tattoo removals.

Its Sacramento location opened on Saturday at 8065 Elk Grove Florin Rd., Suite #150.

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San Jose native Adam King founded New Skin in 2010. The organization focuses on providing low-cost tattoo removals to those formerly incarcerated so they can seek employment opportunities, change lifestyles and get back into society. It also has services to remove radiation marker tattoos on cancer survivors, gang-related tattoos and human trafficking markers.

The new addition of Sacramento makes three locations for New Skin, including a San Jose pop-up clinic.

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Were only open once a month here in San Jose, but during that month we see almost 350 people in those two days, said King, who is also a deputy probation officer for Santa Cruz County. Theres such a huge demand. And the majority, I would say about 20% of those people, drive from Stockton, Sacramento to come to us to get a tattoo removal.

Over the years, he said, people requested the organization to open a spot in Sacramento.

Finally, this was a great opportunity for us, he said about the new shop. We found a great location. Everything aligned perfectly.

Before launching his business, King worked with the Center for Employment Training, assisting individuals who were released from jail and prison with getting jobs. He was also a part of the Clean Slate Program in San Jose, which has an initiative for removing visible tattoos but only serves youth up to 25 years old.

I came up with the idea that thats great that were serving youth but we got to take care of the adults. There was no niche or anything out there for adults that they can get free or low-cost tattoo removals, he said. So thats why I started New Skin Tattoo Removal.

The organization also works with Santa Clara and Monterey counties juvenile halls to do tattoo removals for minors currently incarcerated.

How to schedule an appointment

The Sacramento spot will be open only one weekend a month from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Its next opening is Sept. 30 and Oct. 1.

It takes walk-ins but you can call or text 916-234-6916 to make an appointment.

Pricing

Individuals can get as many tattoos as they need removed, and prices are based on how long it takes.

For the Sacramento, its $100 for 3 minutes; $120 for 5 minutes; $240 for 10 minutes; $320 for 15 minutes. Some tattoos will require from three to 10 treatments for complete removal.

According to the Laser Skin Care Center, laser tattoo removals can range from $150 to $600 per treatment on average, and prices depend on factors such as tattoo size, skin tone, ink color and type of laser.

New Skin Tattoo has a price match guarantee if you text them a valid competitors price.

How do they remove tattoos?

Removals are non-invasive and non-surgical.

The organization uses an Astanza Duality laser to remove tattoos, which according to the website, allows for faster fading and fewer treatments.

Laser tattoo removal works by sending specific wavelengths of light energy into the skin in extremely short and fast pulses, according to the website. Each pulse of the laser safely penetrates through the skin and targets the ink particles trapped in the dermal layer.

What do you want to know about life in Sacramento? Ask our service journalism team your top-of-mind questions in the module below or email servicejournalists@sacbee.com.
As Action News Jax closely monitors Idalia and its impacts in our local area, what can natural gas customers do to protect themselves and their families?

>>> STREAM ACTION NEWS JAX LIVE <<<

Atlanta Gas Light has provided the following guidelines associated with natural gas safety before, during and after the storm:

Meter safety

Customers are encouraged to know the location of their natural gas meter.

Following a weather emergency, customers should ensure the natural gas meter is visible, and the area surrounding the meter is free of trash and debris. Mechanical equipment used after the storm to clean up a location may damage the meter if it is hidden.

If a natural gas meter is damaged or an underground gas line is exposed, customers should immediately leave the area, and call your local natural gas provider or dial 911. Atlanta Gas Light 24-hour emergency response line is 1-877-427-4321.

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Appliance safety

Customers are advised to leave their natural gas service operational during a hurricane or severe storm. Most modern gas appliances have safety valves that shut off the flow of natural gas automatically with a loss of gas pressure or flooding of the appliances.

Leaving appliances operational could prevent further damage of water getting into the customers fuel line or appliance control valves. Electronic ignition appliances will not come on when the power source has been impacted.

If you are uncomfortable leaving your appliances operational, contact a trained professional (certified plumber or HVAC representative) to shut off your appliances at the shut-off valves. When it is safe to do so, have them return to turn the valves back on, leak test the line and turn on and test the appliance for safe operation.

If flooding occurs at a residence or business and the gas appliances are under water, customers are advised not to operate their appliances until a safety inspection is conducted by a certified plumber or HVAC representative

READ: Hurricane Idalia: Northeast Florida, Southeast Georgia evacuation information

Detecting gas leaks

If customers smell the distinctive rotten-egg odor associated with natural gas, they should leave the area immediately and move a safe distance away from the potential leak, while avoiding any action that may cause sparks.

Look for blowing dirt, discolored vegetation or continued bubbling in standing water.

Customers should never try to identify the source of a leak or stop the leak themselves.

Avoid using any sources of ignition, such as cell phones, cigarettes, matches, flashlights, electronic devices, motorized vehicles, light switches or landlines, as natural gas can ignite from a spark or open flame, possibly causing a fire or explosion.

Damage Prevention

Strong winds and saturated ground could cause trees to become uprooted. Before removing downed trees, customers should contact Georgia 811 by to have the location of underground utility lines marked because downed trees could become tangled with the utility lines.

If a natural gas meter is damaged or natural gas line is exposed, customers should immediately leave the area and call their natural gas company or 911 from a safe location.

Natural Gas Generators

During a power outage, natural gas generators can provide continuous fuel supply from an existing natural gas line. While these units are available in a range of sizes to meet various energy needs, customers are encouraged to contact their local natural gas provider prior to the installation to determine whether their service line and meter meets load requirements for the generators safe and efficient operation.

Carbon Monoxide Safety

To ensure the safe, proper operation of natural gas appliances, and to prevent the potentially hazardous buildup of carbon monoxide within your home or business, ensure that outdoor vent openings and air intakes are not obstructed.

If customers smell natural gas or suspect carbon monoxide is present in their home or business, they should immediately leave the area and call their natural gas provider or 911 from a safe location.

Residents are encouraged to seek medical attention immediately if anyone in their home or business experiences possible symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning, which include headache, dizziness, fatigue, nausea and vomiting.

READ: Tracking Idalia: Storm still forecast to be category 3 hurricane at landfall

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FILE - Edgar Prado rides Sarava, left, to victory in the 134th Belmont Stakes in Elmont, N.Y., June 8, 2002. Finishing second is Medaglia d'Oro,right, ridden by Kent Desormeaux. Old Friends, the Thoroughbred retirement facility in Georgetown, Ky., has announced announced that Sarava, the upset winner of the 2002 Belmont Stakes (G1), died Monday, Aug. 28, 2023. (Mark Cornelison/Lexington Herald-Leader via AP) (ASSOCIATED PRESS)

GEORGETOWN, Ky. (AP)  Sarava, the upset winner of the 2002 Belmont Stakes at 70-1 odds, died Monday at his retirement farm in Kentucky.

The 24-year-old horse was euthanized due to complications from a leg fracture, according to a preliminary veterinarian report from Rood & Riddle Equine Hospital. His death was announced by Old Friends farm in Georgetown.

The dark bay was the first winner of a Triple Crown race to be retired to the farm in September 2012 by his owners Gary Drake and Paul and Susan Roy.

He was proud, independent, and in his way, very lovable, said Michael Blowen, founder and president of Old Friends.

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Sarava, whose name is a Brazilian greeting that means good luck, gained his greatest fame with his upset in the Belmont. Ridden by Hall of Famer Edgar Prado, the colt battled Medaglia d'Oro throughout the 1 1/2-mile race and won by a half-length.

Trained by Ken McPeek, Sarava is the longest shot to ever win the Belmont. He paid $142.50 to win.

He gave me one of the biggest thrills of my career, said Prado, who recently visited Sarava at the farm. In the last years of his life, hes spent quality time among so many good people that showed him love, showed him respect and admiration for what he has done for horse racing.

War Emblem, attempting to become the first Triple Crown winner since Affirmed in 1978, stumbled at the start and finished eighth. War Emblem also retired to Old Friends and died in 2020.

Sarava had three wins in 17 career starts and earnings of $773,832.

___

AP sports: https://apnews.com/hub/sports
Recent satellite photos of the Kerch Strait between Ukraines Crimea and Russia show that Russias occupation forces are sinking ferries around the Crimean bridge, apparently to protect it from attack by Ukrainian maritime drones.

OSINT researcher H. I. Sutton (@CovertShores) tweeted satellite images of the crossing on Aug. 28, saying the pictures showed water barriers created by the occupiers on the western approaches to the crossing. They appeared after an attack by surface drones on the bridge on July 17.

Read also: Ukrainian Air Force comments on Crimean Bridge explosions

Earlier, the Ukrainian Defense Ministrys Main Intelligence Directorate or HUR announced on Aug. 22 that the Russian occupiers planned to sink ferries in order to protect the illegally built Crimean bridge.

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However, HUR chief Kyrylo Budanov said that the Russian occupiers would be unable protect the illegally built Crimean bridge from attacks by naval drones by sinking ferries in the Black Sea.

Explosions rang out on the Crimean bridge on the night of July 17, after which all traffic across it was stopped. Serhii Aksyonov, Russias puppet leader in Crimea, declared that an "emergency event" had occurred, and the Russians on social media said there serious damage had been done to to at least one section of the bridges roadway. Later, the occupiers announced the restoration of railway connections.

Read also: SBU chief Malyuk on how Crimean Bridge was attacked  twice

NV's sources in the law enforcement agencies reported that Ukraines SBU security service and the Ukrainian Navy had organized the operation to attack the Crimean bridge. According to the source, the bridge was attacked using maritime drones.

Russian Deputy Prime Minister Marat Husnullin later admitted that one section of the roadway of the Crimean bridge cannot be restored, and would have to be replaced.

This was already the second case of explosions occurring on the Crimean bridge, which Russia uses to transfer armored vehicles and manpower to the south of Ukraine: Several of its spans collapsed as a result of a powerful explosion on Oct. 8, 2022.

The Kremlin regime accused the head of the Main Directorate of Intelligence of the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine Kyryl Budanov of organizing the attack on the bridge. For its part, the HUR denied these statements, calling them "delusional."

The head of Ukraines SBU security service, Vasyl Maliuk, admitted for the first time on July 26 that the security service had been involved in the attack on the Crimean bridge on Oct. 8 last year.

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Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
Mohammed al-Ghamdi, a retired Saudi teacher, has been sentenced to death for his social media posts

A Saudi court has sentenced a retired teacher to death for criticising the ruling family in messages to his nine social media followers.

According to Human Rights Watch, 54-year-old Mohammed al-Ghamdi was sentenced to death on July 10 for various offences related to his activity on YouTube and X, formerly known as Twitter. The ruling may be the first death sentence for social media posts.

The charges reportedly levied against the retired teacher include describing the King or the Crown Prince in a way that undermines religion or justice, supporting a terrorist ideology, and disseminating fake news with the intention of executing a terrorist crime.

On Thursday, Mohammeds brother, Saeed al-Ghamdi, tweeted that his brothers sentencing may be an attempt to spite me personally after failed attempts to return me to the country. Saeed, an Islamic scholar, lives in self-imposed exile in London and is wanted by the Saudi authorities.

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I appeal to anybody who can help to save my brother from this unfair and unjust ruling, he said.

Saudi Arabia has long faced criticism for its frequent use of the death penalty. In 2022, the kingdom performed 196 confirmed executions, according to Amnesty International, making it the third-most prolific executioner after China and Iran.

Silence its critics

Saudi Arabia has also handed down numerous decades-long sentences for crimes related to social media posts.

Last August, a Leeds University doctoral student was sentenced to 34 years in prison when she returned home to Saudi Arabia for the summer holidays. Salma al-Shehab, a 34-year-old mother of two, was accused of assisting those who seek to cause public unrest and destabilise civil and national security by following their Twitter accounts.

Mohammed al-Ghamdi has been held by Saudi security forces since last June when he was arrested outside his house in Mecca. Following his arrest, Human Rights Watch reports that he spent four months in solitary confinement and was denied access to a lawyer for over a year.

His trial was conducted in Saudi Arabias controversial Specialized Criminal Court (SCC) that was established in 2008 to deal with a backlog of terrorism cases but has since become notorious for handing heavy sentences to political prisoners.

In 2020, Heba Morayef, Amnesty Internationals Middle East and North Africa director, said: The Saudi Arabian government exploits the SCC to create a false aura of legality around its abuse of the counter-terror law to silence its critics. Every stage of the SCCs judicial process is tainted with human rights abuses.

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The Ukrainian Security Service (SBU) has found evidence that Russian Colonel Viktor Bedryk tortured and killed two Ukrainian civilians in occupied Kherson Oblast, the SBU reported via Telegram on Aug. 29.

Bedryk was appointed the military commander of occupied Kherson Oblast in March 2022.

According to the SBU's investigation, which was conducted in cooperation with the Kherson Regional Prosecutor's Office, Bedryk used violence and intimidation to suppress resistance to the Russian regime. One of his first tasks was ordering the construction of torture chambers in the city of Kherson.

"In the cells of these prisons, people were beaten, electrocuted, left without food and water, and threatened with execution," the SBU said.

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Bedryk took part in the beatings and abuse himself, even arranging for a torture cell directly beneath his personal office.

Many of the victims were detained during anti-Russian protests, while others were simply abducted from their homes or off the street, the SBU said.

The SBU's investigation found documentation of Bedryk's participation in the torture of 12 civilians. Two of these victims died under torture.

The SBU also determined that Bedryk's subordinate, Oleksandr Chychkan, was complicit in these crimes.

As a result of the investigation, the SBU issued both Bedryk and Chychkan notices of suspicion under Article 438 of the Ukrainian Criminal Code, which deals with war crimes.

"Comprehensive measures to bring the offenders to justice regardless of their location are underway," the SBU said.

Ukrainian troops liberated the city of Kherson in November 2022. Before liberation, residents of occupied Kherson sustained an underground resistance movement for months under constant threat of imprisonment, torture, and death.

Read also: Tortured Khersonians speak of Russias crimes

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
SAN MARCOS, Calif.  A school bus caught fire Tuesday morning in San Marcos while five students and the driver were inside, the San Diego Sheriffs Department said.

Around 8 a.m., deputies were dispatched to the fire near Mission Road and Las Posas Road.

According to SDSO in a post on X, formerly known as Twitter, the bus was on route to Twin Oaks High School when the flames erupted in the back engine of the bus.

When SDSO arrived on scene, the students and driver were already safely evacuated and waiting on the sidewalk.

UC San Diego among top public universities in U.S., according to new ranking

Deputies boarded the vehicle to ensure no additional passengers were inside. Firefighters then worked to extinguish the fire.

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As none of the students were injured, a second school bus came to pick them up to take them to school, SDSO said.

This incidents comes about two weeks into the school year for students in the San Marcos Unified School District, who held its first day of school on Aug. 15.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation at this time by the California Highway Patrol, who is the regulating agency for school buses.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego.
Im sitting in my sons pick-up line nearly two hours earlier than when school gets out.

Im toward the front of the line, and were told to turn off the car. So Im hot and sweaty and, yes, a little crazy.

One of the things Ive been asked repeatedly since my son started middle school is why on earth I drop him off and pick him up.

The district has buses, you know, other parents say to me.

Anna Maria Della Costa is The Charlotte Observer's education reporter.

Im aware that public school districts in North Carolina provide transportation. Im also aware that drop-off and pick-up lines snake onto main roads, clogging up traffic both in the morning and afternoon. I am part of the traffic problem.

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Heres what you may not know: parents like me have good reasons why we choose this mode of transportation for our children. Those can range anywhere from it being easier for working parents to being wary of behavior on school transportation.

My son took the bus to and from school when he attended the neighborhood elementary school. Since that time, we moved to an area in our subdivision that is zoned for a middle school about 20 minutes away. Not only are the bus trips long  he doesnt get home until after 5 p.m. most days if he takes the bus home. In the mornings, middle and high school students share a bus.

So, I make the trek in the morning and afternoon. Judging by the lines of traffic behind me, Im not alone.

Police sometimes release maps of school pick-up line routes, including in Huntersville, where the police department asked parents to drive the pick-up line route before the first day.

Traffic will be bad, we promise, so make plans to add time, and bring patience, to your trips, Huntersville Police said on Facebook before the first day.

What do parents do in pick-up lines?

A long line of cars await a 7:00 a.m. drop-off for the first day of school at Waxhaw Elementary School on Monday, August 28, 2023.

While Im sitting in front of the school, I get a lot of work done. Its quiet and little distracts me. I pay extra for an internet hotspot so I can work from the car on my laptop. Weekly meetings with my editor are often taken from my car, and if I interview someone on a weekday afternoon, theres a high chance Im talking on the phone from the pick-up line.

As I drive to and from my second office  the car  I also see a lot of frustrated drivers.

I get it. School has started and now you have to wait for buses and try and avoid back-ups at schools.

But heres the reality: None of us, including school bus drivers, are purposely making commutes more stressful. We have a job to get children to school.

Practice patience and grace.

Tips for drivers

Principal Ernest Marcello directs traffic for car drop-offs for the first day of school at Waxhaw Elementary School on Monday, August 28, 2023.

Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools offered tips to drivers to start the school year that include when and how to stop for buses according to North Carolinas School Bus Stop Law.

Here are tips and rules Ive collected from CMS and the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department:

 Never pass a stopped school bus that has its lights blinking and signs showing.

 Please pay extra attention to lower speed limits in school zones and follow them. Also slow down in neighborhoods especially if youre driving by bus stops.

 Dont pass other cars who are following those lower speed limits in school zones.

 Please never text and drive.

Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department says: Be alert and aware.

And here are my final words of advice as I sit here, waiting for the final school bell to ring: plan ahead and leave early to allow time for the extra traffic during your commutes.

The best part of my commute to school every morning and afternoon? Quality time with my son. We have some of our best talks during those 20-minute drives.
A wave of online harassment and vitriol directed at Japanese people following the release of treated radioactive wastewater from Fukushima has sent tensions between Japan and China soaring, prompting Tokyo to summon the Chinese ambassador.

Chinas heavily censored internet exploded in outrage after Japan officially began releasing the wastewater on Thursday.

Several videos on social media show Chinese callers dialing the numbers of Japanese businesses and institutions, then shouting into the phone, Why do you release nuclear polluted water to the ocean?

The comments below the videos are full of users sharing numbers to call, and encouraging each other. I just called as well, one person wrote.

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The mayor of Fukushima, Hiroshi Kohata, said on Saturday the citys town hall alone had received about 200 such harassment calls in two days. Many other locations around the city have received similar calls, he said, including elementary and junior high schools, restaurants, hotels and inns.

Many of them are from +86 (Chinas country code) and are in Chinese, he added in a Facebook post. In addition to the damage caused by the nuclear accident, Fukushima is also burdened with the aftermath. We demand that the government be informed of this situation as soon as possible and take action.

One seafood market in Fukushima prefecture received dozens of calls from Chinese numbers on Friday, according to Japanese public broadcaster NHK.

Japans foreign ministry said on Monday it had summoned the Chinese ambassador over the harassment calls, saying the incidents were extremely regrettable and worrisome.

It urged Beijing to take appropriate measures immediately to prevent the situation from escalating, and to avoid spreading inaccurate information about the wastewater release.

Its not just businesses inside Japan being targeted. Japanese institutions in China have also been harassed, said the foreign ministry, urging Beijing to ensure the safety of Japanese residents in China and Japanese diplomatic missions in China.

A stone was thrown into the grounds of a Japanese school in Qingdao, in Chinas Shandong province, on Thursday when the release began, according to NHK. The next day, several eggs were thrown at a Japanese school in Suzhou, in Chinas Jiangsu province.

No children were hurt in either case, and the schools have since stepped up their security, NHK reported.

The report did not identify the perpetrators or say whether they were motivated by concerns over Fukushima.

But the incidents have nevertheless contributed to the fear and anxiety among Japanese residents in China.

On Thursday as the wastewater release began, the Japanese embassy in China issued a warning to Japanese living in the country, warning them not to speak Japanese loudly when out in public, and to be cautious in your speech and behavior.

The embassy in Beijing has ramped up security and deployed more personnel around the building, NHK reported.

Security officers in front of the Japanese embassy in Beijing, China, on August 26, 2023. - Kyodo News/Getty Images

Chinas response, however, has been less than sympathetic.

On Monday, the Chinese embassy in Japan released a statement condemning the release once again, accusing Tokyo of causing unpredictable harm to human and marine health, denying that it had spread any misinformation  and claiming that it, too, had received harassment calls, but from Japanese numbers.

In an echo of the Japanese embassys statement, it urged Tokyo to protect the safety of Chinese residents in Japan.

When asked what measures China would take to address the harassment, a spokesperson for the Chinese Foreign Ministry said: China has always protected the safety and lawful interests of foreign nationals in China according to law.

Sushi diplomacy

The release of treated radioactive water from Fukushima prompted a swift and angry response from Chinese authorities, who on Thursday announced a ban on all seafood imports from Japan.

Many social media users have gone a step further by advocating a broader boycott of Japanese products. On Douyin, the Chinese version of TikTok, users have circulated lists of Japanese brands ranging from cosmetics to food and beverages, and urged people not to buy their products.

But some observers outside China say the explosive backlash in the country may be more politically driven than scientifically informed, and accuse Beijing of a double standard. Many countries, including China, release treated radioactive water from their own nuclear plants, sometimes at higher concentrations than in Fukushima.

This fact, however, is missing from online discussions in China. The few voices trying to explain the science behind the discharge have been censored and scrubbed from social media.

Contamination is scientifically not that serious, and Chinas own water release and other countries water releases are much more (concentrated) than the Japanese case, said Yasuhiro Matsuda, a professor of international politics at the University of Tokyos Institute for Advanced Studies on Asia.

He added that the discharge isnt a strategically important issue to China, the way national security is, so the furor may instead be an attempt by Beijing to gain political leverage. However, he said the social media attacks and public sentiment had ballooned beyond authorities control, becoming an all-out bashing of Japan.

Some supporters have taken to eating regional seafood in a show of solidarity.

South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol and Prime Minister Han Duck-soo ate a seafood lunch on Monday, the presidential office said, adding that sashimi and grilled mackerel were served for lunch at the office cafeteria.

Photos released by the office show government workers and media personnel feasting on seafood, though there were no such images of Yoon and Han.

Tokyo Governor Yuriko Koike tucked into a lunch of raw fish from Fukushima on Friday, a day after the discharge began, said an official from the metropolitan government  adding that it was to show support for the reconstruction of the damaged Tohoku region after the 2011 disaster.

The Tokyo metropolitan government served seafood from Fukushima in its staff cafeteria last week, with the menu featuring items such as fried sardines and grilled mackerel. Other prefectures are considering similar programs, with the Osaka governor proposing Fukushima seafood be served at all government cafeterias.

The US ambassador to Japan, Rahm Emanuel, is expected to visit a city in Fukushima this week, where he plans to eat locally caught fish to show support for the wastewater release, a US embassy official told CNN.

A fractious relationship

The tensions between China and Japan come against the backdrop of their historically fractious relationship, which dates back beyond World War II and includes a variety of maritime territorial disputes.

Chinese calls for boycotts of Japan are relatively frequent, breaking out whenever old grievances rear their heads or territorial disputes flare, experts say.

In 2012, trade relations sank to a low point when Japan nationalized a group of islands in the East China Sea claimed by both Tokyo and Beijing, fueling violent anti-Japanese protests across cities in China. The boycotts turned into violent attacks against Japanese-owned or branded factories in China as well as automakers and home appliance retailers.

There are similarities between the situation now and 2012, said Matsuda, including anger and dissatisfaction among the Chinese public, who face high unemployment rates, rising costs of living and slowing economic growth following the pandemic.

The Fukushima issue could simply be a trigger to release these frustrations, he said. However, he thought the current controversy was unlikely to spiral into the kinds of attacks and open street protests seen in 2012.

Still, the bilateral relationship looks to be under strain again, with China asking the head of a Japanese political party to postpone his planned visit this week.

The party head had hoped to meet Chinese leader Xi Jinping and hand over a personal letter from Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, Reuters reported, but Chinese authorities told the party on Saturday that the timing is not appropriate considering the current situation of Japan-China relations.

Berry Wang, Kathleen Magramo and Nectar Gan contributed reporting.

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A tiny spherule, recovered from the bottom of the Pacific Ocean, could be a fragment from an alien spacecraft, Harvard Professor Avi Loeb says (Courtesy of Avi Loeb)

Scientists have found material from outside of our solar system for the first ever time, according to a controversial Harvard Professor.

The spheres were found in the Pacific Ocean in June. But early analysis has now indicated that the material came from outside of our solar system, carried by an interstellar object that crashed into the Earth in 2014, according to Avi Loeb , a theoretical astrophysicist at Harvard University.

The material could even be of extraterrestrial technological origin because of some unusual characteristics of the material, he said. Professor Loeb has previously claimed that the asteroid may have been artificial, such as an alien spacecraft.

This is a historic discovery because it represents the first time that scientists analyze materials from a large object that arrived to Earth from outside the solar system, Professor Loeb wrote in his announcement.

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Professor Loeb has made a number of claims about potential extraterrestrial life and visitors from other solar systems. While has made a number of contributions to astrophysics, he is perhaps best known for his suggestions that Oumuamua, the first interstellar object to visit our solar system, could have been an alien probe.

His regular and often unusual claims have led to some censure from fellow scientists, who say that he is given to sensationalism and is damaging the usual process of discovery. His pronouncements can be attention-grabbing and undermine the usual work of science to check extraordinary claims with extraordinary evidence, they have said.

People are sick of hearing about Avi Loebs wild claims, Steve Desch, an astrophysicist at Arizona State University, told The New York Times in July, when Professor Loeb revealed details of his search. Its polluting good science  conflating the good science we do with this ridiculous sensationalism and sucking all the oxygen out of the room.

Professor Loeb made the most recent claims on Medium, where he has been documenting his trip to the Pacific Ocean to collect materials. In recent years he has been taken with a fireball that fell to Earth in 2014  and has been looking to collect any fragments from it.

He has claimed that details about the fireball indicate that it had come from outside of our solar system. Those claims have proven controversial  though they have been accepted for publication in the prestigious Astrophysical Journal, after initially being rejected  because scientists have argued there is not significant enough proof to indicate it really was an interstellar visitor.

Nonetheless, in recent months Professor Loeb and his team have been scouring the Pacific Ocean for any fragments from that object, and in June they announced that they had successfully gathered some examples. Those samples have since undergone testing by scientists.

Now Professor Loeb says that analysis shows that the materials are from a meter-size object that originated from outside the solar system. A number of details about the material indicated that it was of interstellar origin, he said.

He pointed particularly to the amount of beryllium, lanthanum and uranium (or BeLaU) in the objects. That set them apart from other samples not found in the path of the object  and also from objects that would normally be expected to have been formed on the Earth, the Moon or Mars, he said.

Professor Loeb said he he was confident that more objects would be found like IM1, the name he has given to that object he claimed to be an interstellar visitor. He suggested that there could be a few million such objects reside within the orbit of the Earth around the Sun at any given time and that some of them may represent technological space trash from other civilizations.

He also criticised those many scientists who have expressed scepticism about his claims, joking that he was running away from colleagues who have strong opinions without seeking evidence, and I am running towards a higher intelligence in interstellar space and saying that he wishes his critics happiness and prosperity.
A fish monger arranges seafood at the Noryangjin Fisheries Wholesale Market in Seoul on July 6, 2023. Credit - Jung Yeon-jeAFP/Getty Images

South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol is going all out to convince citizens that seafood is safe to consume.

On Sunday, the presidential office announced that it would serve Korean seafood at its cafeteria for the whole of this week, and continue to provide seafood at least twice a week afterward. The President himself had seafood at lunch on Monday, a presidential office spokesperson said.

Authorities are also meeting with corporate meal service providers to discuss serving more seafood to employees of companies. And there has also been talk of increasing seafood in meals for the military and schools. Sixty-four billion won ($48.4 million) has been budgeted for vouchers for consumers to spend on seafood and sea salt, as well as 115 billion won ($87 million) in financial aid to the seafood industry.

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At the same time, Yoons political opponents have been leading protests and claiming that his government is bulldozing through public safety concerns and turning a blind eye to an alleged crime to humanity committed by Japan, which started releasing treated wastewater from the Fukushima nuclear power plant last week.

Read More: Japan Is Releasing Wastewater Into the Pacific: What to Know About Radioactivity and Seafood

The topic of seafood safety has in recent months emerged to be a heated flashpoint in South Korean politics. While Yoons government tries to retain public confidence in the countrys seafood supply, opposition parties say that these attempts are clouded by a desire to deepen a budding friendship with Japan at the expense of public health and glossing over historical injustices.

Meanwhile, the countrys seafood industryone of the biggest in the worldis swimming in uncertainty, with over 90% of South Korean consumers saying that they would reduce their seafood consumption because of safety concerns. This unease has continued to pervade the seafood market despite scientists saying that the wastewater poses a very low risk of radiotoxic effects.

While the data hasnt shown much yet, the Korean seafood industry is expected to suffer for a while because of the psychological anxiety, Eunjung Lim, an associate professor of international studies at Kongju National University, tells TIME.

This issue is not, and should not be, about Korea-Japan relations, but it has already become a political issue of how we view Japan and how we view cooperation with Japan, says Lim.

When Japan first announced its plan to release treated wastewater from Fukushimas nuclear plant in 2021, it was met with immense anger from the South Korean government, then led by President Moon Jae-in from the center-left Democratic Party. Authorities denounced the decision as outright unacceptable and threatened legal action at the time.

But under Yoons administration, which took power in 2022, South Korea did a 180 on the issue as it has sought to mend ties with Japan. When a joint survey conducted by Korean and Japanese newspapers in June showed that 84% of Korean respondents opposed the wastewater release, a Korean official said that the government should not make its decision based on an opinion poll. In July, the Yoon-led government endorsed the safety of Japans wastewater plansin stark contrast to the positions taken by other countries in the region, including China, which has implemented further bans on Japanese seafood imports since last week.

Read More: How South Koreas Yoon Suk-yeol Capitalized on Anti-Feminist Backlash to Win the Presidency

Yoons stance has been criticized by opposition parties who point to the countrys bitter history with Japan, which the Democratic Party described as a war criminal nation that has once again emerged as a global troublemaker by deciding to release the radioactive water into the ocean.

The opposition Democratic Party has a very different historical sense of national identity than the ruling People Power Party, Lim explains.

Yoon, for his part, has placed clear emphasis on improving South Koreas ties with Japan and the United States as a way to stave off the ever looming threat from North Korea.

Earlier this month, in an inaugural trilateral summit at Camp David, Yoon met with Kishida and U.S. President Joe Biden to strengthen the partnership between the three countries amid rising geopolitical tensions in the Asia-Pacific region.

Read More: The U.S. Is Beefing Up Alliances Across AsiaBut Dont Expect an Asian NATO Anytime Soon

Despite the domestic backlash he faces at home, it would have been hard for [Yoon] to undermine the momentum of trilateral cooperation over something that is scientifically unproblematic, says Lim. The deep-rooted distrust of Japan in the minds of South Koreans and the trauma of Japans past actions have made this issue a bigger political issue than it needs to be.

Contact us at letters@time.com.
Self checkout might be making Americans lonelier.

Most customers prefer self checkout. But it results in fewer connections with cashiers.

Americans spend more time alone today than in recent decades thanks to technology and other factors.

Americans are lonelier than ever, and self checkout could be part of the problem.

Retailers are increasingly relying on self-checkout kiosks. The technology may save on labor, but it's also cutting down on what social scientists call "weak ties," or casual relationships like those between customers and cashiers, the Los Angeles Times reported on Monday.

This demise of weak ties comes as two-thirds of Americans say that technology has made it harder to interact with others, according to a survey from PlayUSA, a website that covers news in the gaming industry. The US Surgeon General also issued a report this year warning about the health consequences of loneliness exacerbated by technology.

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Self-checkout has been around for years. But the technology has lately been expanding to more and more stores. Kroger, for instance, has been operating a store in Tennessee with only self-checkout kiosks since last month, local TV station WKRN reported. Even Amazon Fresh is adding self-checkout stations, after Amazon has spent years trying to get customers to use its Just Walk Out technology.

The option remains popular: about 66% of those surveyed by PlayUSA said they prefer a self-service kiosk over a checkout lane managed by a person. The option was especially popular with Gen Z respondents, 84% of whom said they prefer self-checkout.

But others, especially older shoppers, tend to prefer the face-to-face interactions that come with traditional checkouts, according to the survey. Darryl Jones, a 72-year-old shopper at an Albertsons grocery store in Southern California, told the Times that he appreciates trading jokes with a cashier he's gotten to know at the store.

"Those little things really make it important to have a human," Jones told the Times. "A computer is cold. The courtesy is taken away."

Self checkout is just one of many potential drivers of loneliness in the US. Many Americans have said they can't afford to live in cities with lots of public areas where socializing can be easier. High housing costs have instead pushed some people to the suburbs and more rural areas where interacting with neighbors can be less common.

Broadly, Americans are spending more time alone than they did at the start of the century, according to the Surgeon General's report. In 2019, for instance, the average American spent 24 more hours alone per month than they did in 2003, the report said.

Read the original article on Business Insider
SELMA, Calif. (KSEE/KGPE)  Officers are asking for the publics help in a shooting Selma investigation, in which there are three victims involved, police announced on Monday.

According to police, on July 12 around 11:50 p.m., officers responded to Selma Hospital regarding a male subject who had sustained a gunshot wound.

Early in the investigation, officers determined a shooting occurred in the 3400 block of Mulberry Street in Selma. Further investigation revealed two additional victims had also sustained injuries from gunshots believed to be from this same event. All three victims were treated for non-life-threatening injuries.

The Selma Police Department says, that as the victims of this event are providing minimal information and have been uncooperative with investigators, they are now asking for the communities assistance with information surrounding the investigation and the identity of the suspect(s) in this case.

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Police say if anyone has any information, to call (559) 896-2525 and ask for Sergeant Fain or Detective Hughes.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to YourCentralValley.com.
MADISON - The chair of the Senate committee on elections said he hasn't decided whether to hold a committee vote to determine the future of Wisconsin Elections Commission leader Meagan Wolfe's job.

"I haven't made any determination whether either to hold an (executive) session, or when it might be," Sen. Dan Knodl, R-Germantown, told the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel following the hearing.

The confirmation hearing came after Attorney General Josh Kaul and the nonpartisan Legislative Council issued memos saying Wolfe's confirmation is not properly before the committee. Senate Republicans decided to take up the question of reappointing Wolfe despite the lack of a vote by the bipartisan Wisconsin Elections Commission to reappoint her.

Senate Majority Leader Devin LeMahieu did not respond to questions Tuesday about the memo and when the full Senate would take up her confirmation, which the chamber could do without the vote of the committee.

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Local clerks who support Wolfe, conservative activists who falsely believe former President Donald Trump won the 2020 election and former state Supreme Court Justice Michael Gableman testified at the hearing Tuesday  but not Wolfe herself. Wolfe announced last week that she would not attend, citing Kaul's legal opinion.

Democratic Sen. Mark Spreitzer of Beloit attempted to stop the committee from taking up Wolfe's confirmation, citing a Monday memo from the Wisconsin Legislative Council that stated an appointment or reappointment requires four votes of elections commissioners under state law  a threshold Wolfe has not reached because of procedural maneuvers made by the commission's Democratic members in an effort to keep her in the role.

"This committee cannot take up a nomination that has not been made," Spreitzer said.

But Republican members of the committee voted to move forward. Knodl said after the hearing that while lawmakers take legislative attorneys' opinions into account, "it's up to us. It's we are the decision makers."

"We will go forward with this public hearing. I will not abdicate my authority, or the Senate's authority in this process," Knodl said as the committee began hearing testimony on Wolfe's confirmation.

While Knodl is undecided on whether and when the committee will vote on Wolfe's confirmation, he said the committee would make decisions "promptly" on a handful of bipartisan election bills that were also on the agenda.

State Sen. Dan Knodl, R-Germantown, chairman of the Committee on Shared Revenue, Elections and Consumer Protection.

Republican state senators passed a resolution in June to launch confirmation hearings for Wolfe, even though she has not been nominated for a new term.

State law requires two-thirds of the six-member commission to nominate an administrator for a new term. But Senate Majority Devin LeMahieu, R-Oostburg, has argued the commission's vote of three Republican members voting in favor of reappointing Wolfe and three Democratic members abstaining from voting at all qualified as a two-thirds vote.

LeMahieu did not respond to questions Tuesday about the attorneys' memo and when the full Senate would take up her confirmation.

Spreitzer predicted Wolfe's appointment would end up in court in the lead-up to the 2024 presidential election, resulting in confusion for clerks.

Rock County Clerk Lisa Tollefson said clerks need one source for guidance on administering elections and said Wolfe is respected nationwide as an election official.

"Considering what happened after the 2020 elections, and since, we are in a world of crazy for next year," Tollefson said.

Conservative activists, Republican lawmakers return to false fraud claims in 2020 election

The hearing quickly turned from the legality of the process and toward false claims of voter fraud in an election held nearly three years ago.

Lawmakers began Tuesday's hearing with testimony from the nonpartisan Legislative Audit Bureau about a review of the 2020 election, completed nearly two years ago at the request of Republicans.

Republicans did not ask questions of state auditors, who made several recommendations for the commission, including adopting formal rules on the use of absentee ballot drop boxes.

Spreitzer noted Wolfe sent a letter to the committee Monday in which she said commissioners have voted to implement most of the recommendations contained in the audit bureau review and noting that she does not have a vote as administrator.

The audit was one of two reviews of the 2020 election ordered by Republican lawmakers. The other was led by former state Supreme Court Justice Michael Gableman, taxpayer-funded review did not find evidence the election was incorrectly called. Gableman has been sued over records related to the review, which he testified he deleted if he deemed them irrelevant. His review, originally set at a cost to taxpayers of $676,000, ballooned to a price tag of more than $2 million.

If he were in Wolfe's position, Gableman said, "wild horses couldn't keep me from coming here and telling you about all of the good things that I've been doing to promote and protect the accuracy and transparency of elections in Wisconsin."

Gableman claimed "a majority of people in Wisconsin have doubts about the honesty of elections in this state." In a Marquette Law School poll conducted after the release of the nonpartisan audit, half of respondents said they did not know enough about the report, including 54% of Republicans. Under a third of Republicans said it raised doubts about the election.

Conservative activists who have sought to uncover election fraud themselves, including former Menomonee Falls Village President Jefferson Davis, Peter Bernegger and Harry Wait, assembled at the hearing to oppose Wolfe. Bernegger, a convicted felon whom Wisconsin Capitol Police are investigating for possible stalking behavior toward Wolfe, on Tuesday called for her arrest.

The audience, largely consisting of those who falsely believe the 2020 election was stolen, laughed and clapped in support of Gableman's testimony and jeered Ann Jacobs, a Democratic appointee to the commission, when she said 2020 was an "outstanding, accurate, well-run election."

Election fraud is exceedingly rare in Wisconsin, and President Joe Biden's victory in the state was confirmed by multiple recounts and reviews.

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This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Senate chair Knodl undecided on calling vote on elections chief Wolfe
Two people were injured in a moped crash in Cambridge Monday night.

Officers responding to the area of Putnam Avenue and Pleasant Street around 9:30 p.m. for a motor vehicle collision found a moped and car had crashed into each other, according to Cambridge Police.

Authorities say a passenger of the moped and a passenger of the vehicle were both transported to local hospitals.

Putnam Avenue to Magazine Street and Pleasant Street to Chestnut Street are all closed at this time.

The cause of the crash remains under investigation.

Officers remain on-scene following a serious crash involving operators of a moped & vehicle in the area of Putnam Ave. & Pleasant St.

A passenger of the moped and vehicle were both transported to local hospitals.



Roads are closed at Putnam/Magazine & Pleasant/Chestnut. #CambMA pic.twitter.com/xMf22RELHp  Cambridge Police (@CambridgePolice) August 29, 2023

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The U.S military on Monday announced the names of three Marines killed in a military aircraft crash during a training exercise off the Australian coast over the weekend.

The trio were among 23 Marines on board the MV-22B Osprey when it crashed late Sunday morning on Melville Island north of Darwin, the Marine Rotational Force in Darwin (MRF-D) reported.

Darwin is the capital of Australia's Northern Territory located on the continent's northcentral coast.

The United States Marine Corps identified its dead members as:

Corporal Spencer R. Collart, 21, originally from Arlington, Virginia;

Captain Eleanor V. LeBeau, 29, originally from Belleville, Illinois;

Major Tobin J. Lewis, 37, originally from Jefferson, Colorado.

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According to their unit, Collart was the Osprey crew chief, LeBeau and Lewis were the aircraft's pilots, and Lewis also served as the executive officer of Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 363.

This image made from video shows a helicopter and ambulance involved in rescue mission, following an aircraft crash, in Darwin, Australia, Sunday, Aug. 27, 2023. According to their unit, three Marines died in the crash: Corporal Spencer R. Collart, 21; Captain Eleanor V. LeBeau, 29, and Major Tobin J. Lewis, 37.

We are deeply saddened by the loss of three respected and beloved members of the MRF-D family, Colonel Brendan Sullivan, commanding officer of MRF-D, said. Our thoughts and prayers remain with the families and with all involved."

Sullivan said the Marines "remain focused on required support to the ongoing recovery and investigative efforts."

On the day of the crash, U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd called the crash tragic and offered sympathy to loved ones of the Marines.

These Marines served our country with courage and pride, and my thoughts and prayers are with their families today, with the other troops who were injured in the crash, and with the entire USMC family, Austin posted on X, formerly known as Twitter.

A Care Flight helicopter is seen on the tarmac of the Darwin International Airport in Darwin on August 27, 2023, as rescue work is in progress to transport those injured in the US Osprey military aircraft crash at a remote island north of Australia's mainland.

Eye drop recall: 2 more eye drop products recalled after being linked to potentially deadly bacteria

17 others injured, 3 remain hospitalized

The crash took places about 9:30 a.m. local time, officials said, while the aircraft transported troops during the training exercise.

Of the 17 others injured in the crash, three remained hospitalized  one in critical condition and two in stable condition, the unit reported.

The remaining 14 were taken to Royal Darwin Hospital to be treated for minor injuries and released, the unit said.

The unit did not release the names of those injured.

Hurricane Idalia tracker: Follow the storms path as it strengthens, approaches Florida

The cause of the crash remained under investigation on Tuesday.

What is an Osprey?

A V-22 Osprey is a military aircraft manufactured by Bell Boeing with vertical takeoff and landing and short takeoff and landing used to transport "troops, equipment and supplies from assault ships and land bases," according to the Marines.

Natalie Neysa Alund is a senior correspondent USA TODAY. Reach her at nalund@usatoday.com and follow her on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter @nataliealund.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Marines crash: 3 dead soldiers identified after Osprey crashes
Buncombe County Clerk of Court, located inside the county courthouse, is where the local records of all criminal and civil filings are housed.

ASHEVILLE  In a court hearing Aug. 28, there was question regarding the bond and charges levied against Ronald Jamal Billings, who allegedly ran around naked in a West Asheville neighborhood and attempted to break into residences.

Billings, 30, was arrested Aug. 4 inside a residence under construction after the Asheville Police Department received reports of a naked man running around the neighborhood of Madeline Avenue and trying to break into residences, according to an APD news release. Billings was charged with two counts of felony indecent exposure with victims under the age of 16 and one count of felony breaking and entering to terrorize and injure, among various other misdemeanors.

Billings lawyer, Kerry Glasoe-Grant, stated in court Aug. 28 that methamphetamine played a major role in his behavior. Billings, who lives in Marion with family, had a relapse and was severely high on meth during his naked escapade, according to Glasoe-Grant, which she thinks was the cause of the incident.

Glasoe-Grant recognized the allegations against Billings, specifically that he was running around peoples yards, and banging on the patio door while he was in the nude. She said there was a woman outside with her 13-year-old and 12-year-old nieces, perhaps in a pool.

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But I have not heard that it was done for the purpose of self-gratification, which is a requirement of that statute, Glasoe-Grant said, referring to Billings felony indecent exposure charge. Yes, there was indecent exposure, but I think it was a misdemeanor indecent exposure.

I get its bad behavior and he shouldnt have been nude running around anywhere  but I dont think there was a sexual component that Ive heard alleged with this case, Glasoe-Grant added.

More: WNC woman worked with antigovernment website founder to issue fake arrest writs; convicted

A Madeline Avenue resident, Chad Conover, previously told the Citizen Times that he spotted Billings going into a friends backyard while still wearing underwear. Billings then used the neighbors hose to splash water on his body, according to the Conover, and continued to strip the rest of the way naked.

When Conover later saw Billings approach his own door, he said, I could tell he was messed up. He was uttering that he was trying to hide.

Glasoe-Grant requested Billings bond be changed to unsecured, which means he would not have to pay his full amount of bond but would instead have to pay 10% of his bond if he failed to appear in court. Josh Harrold, the assistant district attorney working the case Aug. 28, asked for the bond to stay where it is, noting that it was previously decreased from $70,000 to $10,000 on Aug. 7. He also pointed out there has not been any discovery provided for the case at this time.

District Court Judge Julie Kepple decided to keep the bond as is, and a new court date was set for Oct. 3.

There has been no official move to adjust Billings charges or indict his case to Superior Court, though Harrold mentioned there are plans to indict. While Harrold was the states attorney working the case Aug. 28, Meredith Mercer is the assistant DA assigned to the case.

Billings remains in custody at the Buncombe County Detention Center.

Ryley Ober is the Public Safety Reporter for Asheville Citizen Times, part of the USA Today Network. News tips? Email Ryley at rober@gannett.com. Please support local, daily journalism with a subscription to the Citizen Times.

This article originally appeared on Asheville Citizen Times: Naked man in West Asheville severely high on meth, lawyer says
Sheriffs deputies target Apple Valley and Victorville during recent Operation Consequences crime suppression activities.

During the week ending August 25, San Bernardino County investigators served 19 search warrants and many felony arrests at the following locations:

24200 Block of Cahuilla Road, Apple Valley

16200 Block of Kasota Court, Apple Valley

11400 Block of Saratoga Road, Appley Valley

13700 Block of Mimosa Road, Victorville

15000 Block of Bluffside Lane, Victorville

14300 Block of Mojave Lane, Victorville

15900 Block of Condor Road, Victorville

16500 Block of Green Tree Boulevard, Victorville

16100 Block of Tawney Ridge Lane, Victorville

16200 Block of Green Hill Drive, Victorville

15600 Block of La Paz Drive, Victorville

15700 Block of Meseta Road, Victorville

4700 Block of N Mayfield Avenue, San Bernardino

600 Block of Fairway Avenue, San Bernardino

500 Block of East Second Street, Rialto

Sheriffs officials target Apple Valley, Victorville and Inland Empire cities during recent Operation Consequences crime suppression activities.

At the locations, authorities also seized 12 firearms, two of which were unserialized ghost guns. In addition, investigators located and seized nearly two pounds of drugs.

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Operation Consequences was conducted by:

Sheriffs gangs/narcotics division.

Sheriffs specialized enforcement division.

Multiple sheriffs patrol stations.

County probation department.

California Highway Patrol.

California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation.

Department of Homeland Security Investigations.

Operation Consequences will continue to focus on targeted crime suppression operations and parole and probation checks in the High Desert and throughout the county.

This article originally appeared on Victorville Daily Press: Authorities target Victor Valley during Operation Consequences
SAN DIEGO  The suspect killed after exchanging gunfire with San Diego police while barricaded in an Encanto home Monday night had shot his mother and two dogs, authorities said.

Officers were dispatched to the scene around 8:45 p.m. after receiving reports for a shooting at a residence on the 500 block of Iona Drive near the intersection of Market Street and Akins Avenue.

Upon arrival, SDPD said the responding officers saw an elderly woman and a dog down in the driveway in front of the home, each suffering from multiple gunshot wounds.

Church choir leader suspected of sexually assaulting teen

As they tried to approach the victim and the dog, the suspect, identified as a 43-year-old man, began firing at the officers from inside the home. One officer returned fire at the suspect in response, SDPD said. It is unknown if the suspect was struck by the rounds fired at that time.

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After the initial shooting with police, officers utilized a patrol vehicle to perform an emergency rescue operation of the woman in the driveaway. As officers performed the rescue, the suspect continued to fire at law enforcement from the residence, according to SDPD.

Once away from the driveway, life-saving measures were attempted on the woman, who was suffering from wounds to her upper body and leg. However, she was later pronounced dead at the scene by medical personnel.

Additional units were requested by SDPD due to the continued gunfire from the suspect, the agency said. By 10 p.m., a heavy police presence surrounded the house, including officers from SDPDs Special Weapons and Tactics Unit (SWAT) and a helicopter.

Law enforcement attempted to get the suspect to surrender, but he reportedly refused.

Minutes later, around 10:10 p.m., the suspect then appeared to set fire in the home. FOX 5 crews at the scene Monday night reported hearing gunshots erupt right before the flames became visible.

Nearly an hour after the fire was started, the suspect was shot by law enforcement, subsequently ending the standoff. He was transported to a local hospital where he was pronounced dead at 10:58 p.m.

San Diego Fire-Rescue was able to extinguish the house fire by 11 p.m. It is unknown how much of the home was impacted. Multiple firearms were recovered from the residence, however, including a rifle, a shotgun and a handgun.

While little is known about the homicide that initiated the standoff, SDPD said the suspect appeared to be the victims son. For unknown reasons, he shot and killed his mother, as well as two dogs. It was not disclosed where the second dog was found.

The identity of the victim is being withheld by law enforcement, pending family notifications. SDPD described her as a 74-year-old woman.

The suspects identity has also not been disclosed due to the ongoing investigation into the officer-involved shooting. There are no other suspects in the incident, SDPD said.

As officers responded to the standoff, authorities cordoned off a large area surrounding the house for several hours Monday night. Several residences within the perimeter were evacuated during the standoff, the San Diego County Sheriffs Office said. The perimeter is shown below in a map posted by SDPD to X, formerly known as Twitter.

Per the Countywide Memorandum of Understanding, the SDSO Homicide Unit was called to the scene to conduct an investigation into the shooting involving the SDPD officer.

Woman killed in wrong-way freeway crash

When deputies conclude their investigation, it will be reviewed by the San Diego County District Attorneys office to determine if the officers bear any criminal liability for their actions. It will also be reviewed by the Commission on Police Practices.

SDPD will conduct a separate administrative investigation into the officers discharge of their weapon, the department said.

According to SDSO, the federal Department of Justice was also notified of the incident.

Anyone with information regarding this incident is encouraged to call the Homicide Unit at 619-531-2293 or leave an anonymous tip with Crime Stoppers at 888-580-8477.

FOX 5s Jaime Chambers contributed to this story.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego.
Despite the fact that military service in Russia now offers good earning opportunities, the Kremlin is continuing to experience problems with recruiting new people to the ranks of the army.

Source: UK Ministry of Defence intelligence update on Twitter dated 29 August, as reported by European Pravda

Details: Analysts note that since the beginning of the full-scale invasion, Russian authorities have been trying to make service in the Russian army financially attractive, hoping to attract more people.

For example, they recall the words of Vladimir Putin on 4 February 2022, shortly before the invasion, when he said that lieutenants receive 81,200 roubles a month. However, in October 2022, Putin promised even conscripted soldiers would receive 195,000 roubles a month.

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Military personnel of junior ranks who are involved in the war against Ukraine now receive more than 200,000 roubles a month, UK Defence Intelligence notes.

Quote: "This is over 2.7 times the Russian national average salary of 72,851 roubles. [...] It is highly likely that the salary and additional benefits are a strong incentive for personnel to join up, especially to those from the poorer areas of Russia. However, Russia is still unlikely to meet its targets for recruiting volunteers to the ranks."

Background:

In a previous review, it was said that Moscow may cancel the next ZAPAD exercises due to a lack of personnel and equipment, as well as fear of criticism.

UK Defence Intelligence believes that the probable death of the head of Wagner PMC Yevgeny Prigozhin and others will have a "deeply destabilising effect" on Wagners future.

Ukrainska Pravda is the place where you will find the most up-to-date information about everything related to the war in Ukraine. Follow us on Twitter, support us, or become our patron!
Editors Note: This report includes a graphic image and details of violence.

Hundreds of families gathered in the West Darfur capital of El Geneina on June 15, plotting their escape from what had become a hellscape of blown-out buildings scrawled with racist graffiti and streets strewn with corpses. The state governor had just been executed and mutilated by Arab militia groups, leaving civilians with no choice but to flee.

What followed was a gruesome massacre, eyewitnesses said, believed to be one of the most violent incidents in the genocide-scarred Sudanese regions history. The powerful paramilitary Rapid Support Forces and its allied militias hunted down non-Arab people in various parts of the city and surrounding desert region, leaving hundreds dead as they ran for their lives, according to evidence collected by CNN.

A picture taken on June 16, 2023, shows bodies strewn outdoors near houses in the West Darfur capital El Geneina. - AFP/Getty Images

CNN analyzed videos, photographs and satellite imagery, and gathered 11 testimonies from eyewitnesses and survivors of the violence in El Geneina, including aid workers who collected the dead and a surgeon who treated the wounded in Chad, to piece together the horrors of June 15. As the killing continues unabated in Sudan, with reports that the violence is accelerating, CNNs investigation into atrocities carried out over that single day offers a window into the scale of abuses, largely hidden from view.

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In the early hours of that morning, residents set off en masse from southern El Geneina, many trying to reach the nearby Sudanese military headquarters where they thought they might find safety. But they said they were quickly thwarted by RSF attacks. Some were summarily executed in the streets, survivors said. Others died in a mass drowning incident, shot at as they attempted to cross a river. Many of those who managed to make it out were ambushed near the border with Chad, forced to sit in the sand before being told to run to safety as they were sprayed with bullets.

More than 1,000 people were killed on June 15. I was collecting bodies on that day. I collected a huge number, one local humanitarian worker, who asked not to be named for security reasons, told CNN. He said the dead were buried in five different mass graves in and around the city.

June 15, 16 and 17 were the bloodiest days in Geneina, said the humanitarian worker, who was part of a city-wide network of aid workers collecting bodies from the streets, and based the death toll on information gathered by the group. June 15 was the worst of them all, he added.

Without access to the city, it has been impossible for CNN to independently verify the true toll, but testimonies from body collectors, aid organizations, doctors and survivors offer clues.

Conflict erupted between the RSF and the Sudanese army in April. Since then, more than one million people have fled to neighboring countries, according to estimates from the International Organization for Migration.

A video shared on Twitter on June 14, 2023, showing hundreds of refugees from El Geneina walking towards Chad.

Now, a telecommunications blackout and the flight of international aid groups have all but cut off Darfur from the outside world. But news of the June 15 massacre began trickling out of the region from refugees who escaped to Chad. The evidence uncovered by CNN suggests that, behind a curtain of secrecy, the RSF and its allies are waging an indiscriminate campaign of widespread killings and sexual violence unlike anything the region has seen in decades.

The RSFs official spokesperson told CNN that it categorically denied the allegations.

To say you were Masalit was a death sentence, said Jamal Khamiss, a human rights lawyer, referring to his non-Arab tribe, one of the biggest in Darfur. Khamiss was among those who said that they fled from El Geneina to Chad, surviving a series of RSF and allied militia positions by concealing his ethnicity.

He said he only managed to escape execution because he convinced the fighters that he belonged to the Tagoy ethnic group, whose language he speaks proficiently.

Khamiss recalled an 8-year-old boy grabbing his hand, part of the group walking towards the Chadian border, rushing to put distance between themselves and the violence.

When we arrived at Shukri, they captured us, said Khamiss. They told us to run away. They shot and killed the 8-year-old boy. He was trying to run away, and they shot him in the head.

June 15 was one of the worst days in all of Darfurs history.

Reviving a genocidal playbook

Darfur has been ravaged by a decades-long ethnic cleansing campaign that peaked in the early 2000s, and was spearheaded by Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo  widely known as Hemedti. Then a leader of the Janjaweed militia, Hemedti, now commander of the RSF, appears to have revived those tactics in a nationwide struggle to wrest control of Sudan from the countrys military.

Rapid Support Forces leader Gen. Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo (Hemedti) speaks at a press conference in Khartoum, Sudan, in April 2019. - AP

Before Sudans current war erupted Hemedti was the second most powerful person in Sudans government. He allied with his now bitter enemy, Sudans military leader Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, to stifle a democratic movement that helped overthrow then dictator Omar al-Bashir, later leading a coup together against an internationally recognized transitional government.

When their rivalry flared into open warfare, Darfur emerged as a flashpoint in the conflict. Hemedti redoubled his efforts to consolidate control over the restive region, taking over key border crossings that helped him bolster his arms supplies from external players such as Russian mercenary group Wagner, and unleashing a brutal assault on local tribes that has exacted a huge death toll.

Weeks after conflict first erupted in Sudan, community activists in Darfur warned that the RSF and allied militia had turbocharged violence in the region, torching large swathes of land in villages and whole neighborhoods, arbitrarily killing civilians and raping women.

El Geneina is the largest Sudanese city to fall to the RSF and its precursor, the Janjaweed. For weeks, armed locals fought against the RSF and its allies as the city came under sustained attacks, and shelling.

The United Nations raised the alarm in June over ethnic targeting and killing of people from the Masalit community in El Geneina, after reports of summary executions and persistent hate speech, including calls to kill or expel them.

The vast majority of those who managed to make it out of El Geneina alive sought refuge in the Chadian border town of Adre, about 22 miles (35 kilometers) away from the city.

Sudanese people, who fled the conflict in Darfur, cross the Chadian border into Adre on August 2, 2023. - Zohra Bensemra/Reuters

On June 15, the town received the highest number of migrants in a single day, along with the highest number of casualties  261  since the Sudan conflict broke out, according to Doctors Without Borders, widely known by its French name, Medecins Sans Frontieres (MSF), which runs the only hospital in Adre. The number of wounded people that arrived at the hospital was even higher the next day: 387.

There were civilians coming in from everywhere, brought in by every means possible, the MSFs Dr. Papi Maloba, who was the only surgeon working in Adre on June 15, told CNN.

There were MSF vehicles dropping patients off  there were Chadian army vehicles bringing in patients. Chadian police bringing in patients  there were carts pulled by men bringing in patients, he said.

Most of the wounds he treated indicated people were shot while fleeing, Maloba said  gunshot wounds to the back, legs and buttocks. Many of those injured were women and children.

Doctors Without Borders (MSF) teams assist the war wounded from West Darfur in Adre hospital in Chad on June 16, 2023, in this handout image by the MSF. - Mohammad Ghannam/MSF/Reuters

I remember the first death I recorded, said Maloba, recounting the afternoon of June 15. It was a 2-year-old who had been shot several times in the abdomen.

Between June 15 and 18, 112 women were treated at the MSF hospital for gunshot wounds and injuries from beatings and other assaults. Half of them were pregnant.

El Geneina first became embroiled in the current Sudan conflict in late April. RSF forces and their allies repeatedly shelled the city, according to eyewitnesses and community-based organizations, leading to hundreds of deaths in the first months of the violence.

The fighting intensified in early June, culminating in the execution of West Darfur governor Khamis Abbakar on June 14. After his death, video footage emerged showing Abbakar being taken into custody by RSF fighters. The Sudanese military blamed the RSF for his killing, a charge which the RSF denies.

The last time we recorded the death toll in Geneina it was 884, one local humanitarian worker from El Geneina, who works for a Western non-profit organization, told CNN. That was June 9. After June 9, it was a different story. The dead became uncountable.

Shot as they drowned

The group of fleeing families was almost immediately ambushed after they embarked on their escape in the early hours of June 15, eyewitnesses said. The first major incident occurred in front of the El Geneina Teaching Hospital, near the center of the city. The fighters had DShKs (Soviet-era heavy machine guns) and other heavy weaponry, said Khamiss, the lawyer from El Geneina.

I saw the RSF units with my own eyes. They had vehicles with RSF license plates. They were wearing uniforms and Janjaweed headdresses, Khamiss told CNN. They were standing in front of us and sprayed us with bullets.

The crowd then dispersed, according to CNNs sources. Some sought refuge in nearby houses, while others continued north to Ardmata, where the Sudanese army has a military base. Around 300 people headed east towards a river valley known as Wadi Kaja, according to eyewitnesses and a body collector, hoping to cross a normally shallow river in an attempt to escape the onslaught by the RSF and its allies.

But the river was running higher than usual that day, according to eyewitnesses, and corroborated by satellite imagery, leading scores of people unable to swim to drown. Three eyewitnesses at Wadi Kaja said militia forces shot at people in the water, including children and elderly people, as they desperately attempted to swim across.

One humanitarian worker, who asked not to be named due to safety concerns, said he witnessed the immediate aftermath and counted around 120 dead bodies. CNN cannot independently confirm the death toll from Wadi Kaja.

Zahra Adam, a womens rights activist from El Geneina, told CNN she had saved two young boys from drowning. I tried to film video but there was an armed man behind me, and I couldnt, said Adam. The RSF surrounded us. They were everywhere.

CNN verified several videos filmed the day after the massacre that showed bodies in the street and widespread destruction within a kilometer (about half a mile) of Wadi Kaja, helping to corroborate accounts that fleeing families were scattered by attacks and forced towards the river.

Videos picturing piles of bodies, shared on social media earlier the same week, were also geolocated to this area, suggesting it was a site of repeated violence. The bodies could also be seen in satellite imagery of the area from June 21. CNN was unable to verify the exact date that the deceased pictured in the videos were killed.

Sudanese Red Crescent collects the bodies

A propaganda video shared by the RSF on its official YouTube channel on July 2 further corroborated allegations of the massacres carried out in El Geneina.

The footage showed RSF West Darfur commander General Abdelrahman Juma  who also appeared in the West Darfur governors abduction video  overseeing a clean-up operation in the city.

RSF West Darfur commander General Abdelrahman Juma -- overseeing a "clean-up" operation in the city. CNN has blurred this image to protect identities. - Rapid Support Forces/YouTube

Juma is seen in the video thanking members of the Sudanese Red Crescent Society (SRC) for their help. The SRC is the International Committee of the Red Cross primary partner on the ground in Sudan, and the ICRC has said its personnel have been assisting with humanitarian aid distribution and collecting bodies since the conflict started.

Some of the units in the video were dressed in hazmat suits and gloves  CNNs sources in El Geneina said SRC members were involved in the collection of bodies and their burial in mass graves. CNN cannot independently confirm that the SRC members in the video were collecting bodies.

CNN geolocated the SRC units pictured in the video to near the site of the attacks, and around 300 meters away from Wadi Kaja, supporting reports that bodies in the area were widespread.

In a press conference on Saturday, West Darfur official Mujeeb Rahman Muhammad Rezk said that 30 mass graves had been discovered in and around West Darfur, including in Wadi Kaja, where the RSF and its allies dumped bodies. He said the RSF forced the SRC to prepare the bodies, wrap, and tie them up in tarpaulins for burial  When they proceeded to burying the bodies, they were threatened by militias and forced to leave, so that the militias could bury the bodies in unidentified locations.

A propaganda video shared by the RSF showing its West Darfur commander General Abdelrahman Juma and SRC members in El Geneina.

The ICRC spokesperson for Africa, Alyona Synenko, told CNN she would not comment on the video, but that the ICRC was aware of it. Synenko did not say whether the SRC units, who were seen in the video wearing serialized vests for identification purposes, had shared evidence of the massacres in El Geneina, adding that the ICRC was also dealing with communication challenges.

The ICRC says that confidentiality is key to maintaining its neutrality in times of conflict and preserving access to hard-hit areas. However, it also states that it reserves the right to speak out in exceptional cases where violations are major and repeated or likely to be repeated and where our staff must have witnessed the violations with their own eyes, or at least have the information from reliable and verifiable sources.

The ICRC also said it may in some cases share concerns with selected third parties, such as other states or international bodies, with a view toward influencing those involved in armed conflicts.

CNN has been told the ICRC has not alerted third parties to evidence of a mass atrocity in El Geneina.

The SRC in El Geneina declined to comment on whether it had informed the ICRC of the bodies collected in the city.

Summary executions near the border with Chad

The escape from El Geneina became even more perilous after the families made it out of the city, according to survivors, with the path to the Chadian border peppered with RSF and allied militia positions.

Two body collectors from El Geneina said that the crowd was ambushed at four or five different locations on a roughly 7-kilometer (4-mile) stretch of road between the city and Shukri, near the border with Chad.

One man, who asked not to be named, said he had lost eight members of his family in that area where Arab militias reportedly have a base. The MSF and the UN have also reported this location as a site of summary executions.

They were executed. They were moving together just before Shukri and they were shot from behind, he said. Among the dead were his father and uncle, who he said were shot at point-blank range in the head.

My grandmother was with them. She saw two of her sons being killed before her eyes, he said.

A day after the massacre, life in El Geneina came to a standstill, according to eyewitnesses and video from the ground. The city had fallen to the RSF and allied militias and the civil resistance by the non-Arab population had been vanquished.

Bodies littered the street from Geneina Teaching Hospital all the way to the south of the city, said resident Zahwi Idriss, who took video of that day.

It was a ghost town, he said. There was nothing there except for corpses and horrific scenes.

Clarification: This story has been updated to clarify the attribution related to the ICRCs reporting of evidence in El Geneina.

CNNs Pallabi Munsi, Pierre Bairin and Ingrid Formanek contributed reporting.

Edited by Eliza Mackintosh.



For more information about how you can help Sudanese refugees, go to CNN.com/Impact.

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Sidney Powell , a one-time attorney for former President Trumps 2020 campaign who helped promulgate false claims of election fraud, has pleaded not guilty in the Georgia election interference case.

Powell and 18 others  including Trump  are accused of joining a criminal conspiracy to keep the former president in power after he lost the 2020 presidential race by overturning the states election results. She faces seven charges, among them violating Georgias Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) Act  a charge designed to target organized crime of which all the defendants are accused.

The Trump lawyers other charges stem from a Coffee County election equipment breach. They include conspiracy to commit election fraud, a series of computer crimes and conspiracy to defraud the state, which is described as theft of data because voter data is property which was under the control of Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger.

Powell waived her right to an arraignment in a Tuesday court filing. The proceeding, where she would have formally heard the charges she faces and entered a plea, was set to take place Sept. 6, the same day as the other defendants.

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Shes not the first to enter a not guilty plea in the sweeping case. Ray Smith, a Georgia-based attorney who worked for Trump, waived his arraignment and entered a not guilty plea in writing Monday, court filings show. Smith is accused of 12 counts in the indictment, including the racketeering charge.

The other defendants, who are set to be arraigned next week, could follow Smith and Powells lead and avoid entering a televised guilty plea after a judge approved cameras in the Fulton County courtroom.

Earlier this week, Powell became the second defendant to request a speedy trial  a move significantly hastening her case. Kenneth Chesebro, the attorney who drafted the fake electors memo, was the first to request a speedy trial and is now facing an Oct. 23 trial date.

Powell was a key surrogate of Trumps false election fraud claims after the 2020 election, vowing to release the Kraken of supposed wrongdoing. She surrendered at the Fulton County jail last week and was released on a $100,000 bond.

Updated at 2:49 p.m. ET

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
A man suspected of abducting and sexually assaulting a woman at gunpoint in Charlotte barricaded himself in his home for six hours on Tuesday in a standoff with police and died by suicide, authorities say.

Police say the 31-year-old man shot himself at the home in west Charlotte just after 2 p.m. Tuesday. He was hospitalized and later died, according to a statement Wednesday morning from Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police.

Charges were pending against him for multiple felonies related to what CMPD described as a violent sexual assault. Detectives and patrol officers with CMPDs Metro Division were at the mans home earlier in the day related to the sexual assault investigation, CMPD officials said in a news statement late Tuesday.

The investigation stemmed from a report of a woman who was forced into a car at gunpoint, taken to an unknown location, and raped at gunpoint on Monday night, reported WSOC, the Observers news partner, citing a police incident report. The report address is near a gas station on Beatties Ford Road, WSOC reported.

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SWAT was called to the mans house after he refused to talk with police on Tuesday morning, CMPD said. No one else was in the home on Columbus Circle, a few blocks from West Morehead Street and Freedom Drive, close to uptown.

CMPDs Sexual Assault Unit detectives obtained arrest warrants for the suspect for multiple felony charges related to a violent sex assault incident, a statement from CMPD said. Officers also coordinated with the suspects family and an outside community agency to attempt to contact the suspect and peacefully resolve the situation. Attempts to communicate with the suspect and facilitate a peaceful surrender were unsuccessful.
Visalia Dobie-Johnson was finishing work on April 5 when she saw two missed phone calls from the Sacramento County Main Jail.

Worried her fiance may be there, she rushed to the downtown jail from her Pocket-Greenhaven condo. She had believed that he was out with friends for the night, but learned when she arrived at the jail around 2 p.m. that Delion Johnson had been in a holding cell for more than 11 hours. She was told that she could not see him.

I wanted to let him know I was there for him, Dobie-Johnson, 35, said in a recent interview. She wore a necklace and a gold locket with Johnsons picture.

I went home and kept checking the website to see if theyd housed him so I could visit him. (His mother) called me at midnight and told me he was gone. I couldnt believe it. All I could think about was his kids.

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Johnson had an 11-year-old boy and a 6-year-old daughter. He and Dobie-Johnson were expecting to have Dobie-Johnsons baby, due in September.

Visalia Dobie-Johnson has fiance Delion Johnsons ashes hanging inside a heart necklace in her bedroom with a collage of pictures of him and their combined family at her home in Sacramento. Delion, 35, died in the Sacramento County Main Jail in April.

Johnson was one of three inmates who have died at the jail so far this year of suspected drug overdoses  deaths that could have been prevented with adequate monitoring and detoxification, according to a new report by two medical professionals tasked with independently monitoring medical care of Sacramento inmates under a federal settlement.

Unlike homicides and suicides, medical deaths at the jail, including overdoses, typically lack any independent oversight. When a death occurs, the Sheriffs Office does not request Inspector General Francine Tournour or internal affairs personnel to respond to the jail to launch their own investigations unless there appears to be policy violations by deputies. For the seven deaths that have occurred since Tournour started her position September 2022, that has not happened.

Sheriffs Office spokesman Sgt. Amar Gandhi declined to answer a list of questions for this story.

The county reviews the circumstances of every death that occurs in the jails ... to determine if the quality of care was a factor in the death and develop a plan to improve performance if it was a factor, said county spokeswoman Kim Nava. The county did not provide those reports to The Bee, citing privacy laws.

In 2018, the County Board of Supervisors removed jail medical care from under the Sheriffs Office. As a result the county division responsible for medical care does not fall under the oversight of the inspector general, Sheriffs Office internal affairs, or the District Attorneys office. The jail currently has vacancies for six mental health workers and 25 registered nurses.

A civil grand jury this year found the vacancies  which nurses said was the reason they couldnt properly monitor at least one of the deceased inmates  violate a federal settlement in a 2019 class action lawsuit called the Mays Consent Decree. That decree outlines a list of requirements for the jail to improve medical and mental health care for inmates.

The Board of Supervisors earlier this month approved nearly $1 billion for a new mental health and intake annex to the jail, which county officials say will make it compliant with the decree, but it wont open until 2028. In the meantime, the lack of compliance could result in the county jail being placed into receivership. That would mean a judge would appoint a third party to take control of things like the jail budget, contracts, and staff, instead of the Board of Supervisors.

Drugs getting into jail

Although the coroners office has not yet determined Johnsons official cause of death, he can be seen on surveillance footage ingesting a white substance from a plastic bag and giving it to cellmates. Therefore, his cause of death is a suspected overdose, the report states.

At the time of the response, (his) pupils were fixed and dilated suggesting (he) had been without a pulse for several minutes before (he) was responded to, the report stated. Nurses appropriately administered Narcan to the patient. However, there was a 9-minute delay in applying AED pads and use of the AED.

Dobie-Johnson thinks he would be alive today if they had strip-searched him more quickly, to find the pills, or if they had watched him more closely in the holding cell.

Visalia Dobie-Johnson wears her fiance Delion Johnsons T-shirt and a necklace with his picture at her home in Sacramento on Aug. 17 as she talks about his death in the Sacramento County Main Jail in April. His family has sued Sacramento County and its Sheriffs Office. He would do anything for his family and for his friends. He never meant any harm to anybody especially intentionally, said Dobie-Johnson.

I just hate that they didnt do their job, Dobie-Johnson said. They couldve very well (strip) searched him, clearly they didnt. I wonder how long he was sitting there before they even realized he was unresponsive.

Tournour, a former deputy in the jail, said inmates sometimes are able to ingest drugs while waiting hours to be strip-searched and booked.

There are drugs that can be easily hidden and there is a period of time from arrest to intake that can allow for ingestion of these drugs, Tournour said.

Drugs in the jail are not a new issue. Last year, three inmate deaths included meth as one of multiple causes, according to coroner reports.

The availability in drugs in prisons has been a pervasive persistent problem, said Mark Merin, longtime civil rights attorney representing the Johnson family in a lawsuit against the county. Theres no excuse for letting people overdose on drugs in jail that should never have been allowed in the institution in the first place.

An advocacy organization, the plaintiff in the consent decree, demanded earlier this month the jail start searching employees when they enter both facilities, the way prisons do.

Lawyers at the San Quentin-based Prison Law Office suspect some of the drugs could be coming in from the staff, not the inmates. Prison Law Office Supervising Staff Attorney Patrick Booth sent a letter to Sheriff Jim Cooper Aug. 7 demanding the jail start screening employees for drugs. Currently, deputies do not walk through a scanner and are not searched when entering the jail, the letter stated.

The Sacramento County Jail is in crisis, the letter stated. Drugs are widely available inside the facilities, and people are dying as a result. Despite the serious risk of harm to people in the jail, the Sacramento Sheriffs Office is failing to make appropriate and sensible interdiction efforts to stop drugs from entering the jails.

Supervising Deputy County Counsel Rick Heyer on Aug. 14 sent the organization an email to deny the request.

The Sheriff agrees that drugs smuggled into the facility is a serious concern, the email stated. However, there is no evidence that such contraband is being brought into the facilities by (Sheriffs Office) employees. (The Sheriffs Office) has investigated the possible sources of these narcotics entering the facilities and has enacted heightened screening protocols in booking and inmate visitation.

Two other suspected drug ODs

Two additional deaths suspected to be fentanyl overdoses occurred after Johnson, the report states.

Cody Catanzarite, 37, arrived back at the jail July 20 after having to go to the emergency room for a fentanyl overdose. The report found he was not seen by a nurse and had not started detoxification for more than five hours. During that time his opioid withdrawal level spiked, and he died within hours.

Cody Catanzarite was 37 when he died in the jail after having to go to the emergency room for a fentanyl overdose.

Two weeks later, Michael John Prince, 43, died after being in the jail for six days. The cause of death is not yet determined, but he was in a detoxification cell. the Prison Law Office said that raises the possibility that he also could have taken drugs brought to him by a staff member or another inmate.

His death left six children without a father, the youngest of whom is 12, his wife Sophia Costello said.

He had a beautiful personality and he loved to talk about the Lord, Costello said. He was a great father. Now Im lost without him. I dont know how long Im going to be able to keep my home.

Another possible cause of overdoses within the prison relates to the practice of cheeking medication, which takes place when inmates dont take their detoxification medications to stay high, or collect enough of the medications to get high again. The protocols around ensuring inmates ingest their medications as prescribed is one issue that Tournour wants to be able to investigate.

Did the inmate cheek their medicine? Tournour told the Community Review Commission, a Sheriffs Office oversight body, during a meeting July 18. I want to see if nurses are checking their mouths.

Uptick in deaths

Of the 25 people who have died at the Sacramento jails since the start of 2021, none has been from homicide or suicide. While that means the jail has made positive improvements to prevent those types of deaths, it also means the public knows little about any of the inmates who have died there in the past two and a half years.

Not all medical jail deaths are overdoses.

Robert Lee Wood, 52, was arrested in September 2022. He was taking medications for seizures, but a jail doctor did not keep giving him the medication, the report found. In October the providers were only giving him half the antibiotics he was prescribed for his arm cellulitis. On Jan. 12, an outside doctor said Wood had a hernia the size of a grapefruit and needed immediate surgery. The jail doctor never ordered the surgery referral. He died Jan. 23.

The coroner death report states Woods cause of death is choking on a peanut butter sandwich.

There has been an uptick in the number of overall Sacramento jail deaths in recent years. In 2021 and 2022, there were 19 jail deaths  higher than any other two-year period dating back to 2005, according to the Department of Justice. All of the 19 were main jail inmates except for one Rio Consumnes Correctional Center inmate.

The average age for the six deaths so far this year is 41  much lower than the U.S. Centers for Disease Control national average of 76.

Tournour said she plans to ask the Board of Supervisors in February, during her annual report, to be able to investigate medical jail deaths. As soon as a death occurs, she wants to be able to get a call and respond, the way she would if it were a homicide.

There are things you need to see, or want to see, and youre reliant on jail staff to do this cursory look and quite often theyre very busy, Tournour said during the July 18 meeting.

Board of Supervisors Chairman Rich Desmond declined comment for this story.

Tournour said she plans to audit all jail deaths since she arrived in 2022, but she must wait for the District Attorneys Office to review them for criminal misconduct first. The DAs Office so far has not completed its reviews of any of the six deaths this year, and only three of the nine deaths from last year. In those deaths it has found no evidence that deputies engaged in criminal misconduct.

The Bees Phillip Reese contributed to this report.
GOP presidential hopeful Vivek Ramaswamy is attempting quite the religious balancing act. He is himself Hindu, and hes calling for the U.S. to emulate Indias controversial Hindu nationalist politicsbut with a religious nationalism based on Christianity. Molly Olmstead tries to unpack whats going on here.

Plus: Nitish Pahwa asks where all this Vivek-omentum is leading. Hes also written about how Hindu nationalist politics first went mainstream in India.

Photo illustration by Slate. Photos by NASA/Getty Images.

This years Atlantic hurricane season is shaping up to be busier than usual, with forecasters predicting as many as 21 named storms this year. Shirin Ali breaks down the combination of factors thats causing it.

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The conservative activist group is reveling in its inflated national reputationbut it should realize it wont last, Adam Laats writes. He identifies the fatal flaw in Moms for Libertys century-old playbook.

Photo illustration by Slate. Photo by Alex Wong/Getty Images.

When a recording of Trump asking the Georgia secretary of state to find 11,000 votes leaked, people were quick to call it a smoking gun. Now the infamous callwhich Trump has dubbed his perfect phone callis back in the news, after Mark Meadows testified about it at a hearing on Monday. Ben Mathis-Lilley takes a look at Meadows defense of the callwhich echoes the one Trump himself has madeand how it really makes a compelling argument against a second Trump presidency.

Photo illustration by Slate. Photo by clsgraphics/iStock/Getty Images Plus.

Its that time of year when parents drop their kids off at college for the first time. Dan Kois recently did so himselfand managed to get through it without sobbing! He shares what it was like, and offers some advice for new empty nesters.

Its worth your while to read to the end. Kois may not have cried, but we definitely got a little misty-eyed!

 much like Barbara Oppenheimer was when she saw the Barbie movie.

Thanks so much for reading! Well see you tomorrow.
Editors note: This story describes sexual assault.

One of the men accused of raping multiple women in San Luis Obispo County will face trial, a judge ruled Tuesday.

Nathan Nate Abate, owner of Cardinal Barbershop in Atascadero, was charged with oral copulation of a person under the age of 18 and rape by use of drugs  both felonies  on Jan. 19.

The business owner posted his $500,000 bond and pleaded not guilty to the crimes during his arraignment the following day.

As of Tuesday, the San Luis Obispo County District Attorneys Office had added more charges, resulting in a total of five charges under three counts.

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According to court documents, Abate is charged with rape by force on the first count, rape of an intoxicated person on the second count and oral copulation of a minor, rape by force, and rape of an intoxicated person on the third.

There is also an addition of evidence code 1108, meaning evidence of previous sexual assaults will be included in the case.

The alleged crimes occurred against three separate women between 2008 and 2012, witnesses said in Tuesdays court hearing. Two of the alleged victims were minors.

Julian Contreras opened Kin Coffee Bar with his brother, Christian, in August 2019.

The San Luis Obispo Police Department and San Luis Obispo County Sheriffs Office began investigating Abate and Julian Contreras, former owner of Kin Coffee in downtown San Luis Obispo, in April 2022 after several criminal allegations came to light on social media.

Since that time, more than 30 women have come forward on social media with stories of sexual assault or harassment by the two men sometime between 2008 and 2021.

In total, the prosecution said, there are at least seven victims who say they have been assaulted by Abate whose accounts may be included in evidence. Some of those victims were also allegedly assaulted by Contreras.

So far only Abate has been charged. Hes represented by defense attorney Scott Taylor.

The Sheriffs Office has obtained an arrest warrant for Contreras and detectives are actively trying to locate him, the agency said in a news release announcing Abates arrest.

Taylor, a San Luis Obispo police detective and a Sheriffs Office detective all confirmed during Tuesdays court hearing that Contreras has fled to Mexico.

On Tuesday, Superior Court Judge Michael Frye ruled there was sufficient evidence for Abate to face trial.

San Luis Obispo Deputy District Attorney Kimbery Dittrich, left, questions SLOPD Det. Bent Inglehart during the preliminary hearing for Nate Abate in San Luis Obispo Superior Court on Aug. 29, 2023. San Luis Obispo Superior Court Judge Michael Frye, center, presides.

Social media post sparks sexual assault investigation

San Luis Obispo police Det. Brent Inglehart, one of the first detectives on the case, took the witness stand on Tuesday.

He testified that he received several voicemails from woman alleging Abate and/or Contreras had assaulted them, but only a few had left callback numbers to follow-up on.

The detective first spoke with Jane Doe 7, who recounted an alleged sexual assault by Abate and Contreras. That Jane Doe referred him to Jane Doe 1, who first posted on Instagram about her alleged rape by Abate.

Jane Doe 1, whose case is count one against Abate, told Inglehart that she had dated Abate on and off consensually around 2011 or 2012, the detective said.

The first sexual encounter between Abate and Jane Doe 1 was consensual as long as Abate used a condom, Inglehart said.

After that encounter, Inglehart said, Jane Doe 1 discovered Abate had taken off the condom during intercourse without Jane Doe 1s consent  a practice known as stealthing. While this practice is not a criminal offense in California, Inglehart noted, it is a civil offense.

Toward the end of her relationship with Abate, Jane Doe 1 and her friend attended a party at Contreras house in San Luis Obispo.

There, Inglehart testified, Jane Doe 1 drank alcohol and smoked marijuana with other party goers.

Jane Doe 1 told Inglehart she already felt high from the marijuana when she, her friend, Abate and Contreras went into a bedroom to smoke more.

According to Inglehart, Jane Doe 1 remembers seeing Contreras thrusting on top of her friend as her friend laid motionless on the bed.

This gave Jane Doe 1 a panic attack, Inglehart said, and she began hyperventilating.

As Abate took his pants and underwear off, Inglehart said, he told Jane Doe 1 to calm down. Then Abate sexually assaulted her, the women said.

Jane Doe 1 told Inglehart she wanted to say no and she wanted to move, but her body couldnt.

Jane Doe 1 told The Tribune she tested positive for chlamydia after she stopped seeing Abate and believes he gave her the STD.

San Luis Obispo Superior Court Judge Michael Frye oversees the preliminary hearing against Nate Abate in San Luis Obispo Superior Court on Aug. 29, 2023.

Inglehart also spoke with Jane Doe 4, who alleged Abate and Contreras raped her in 2013.

At the time, Jane Doe 4 was new to the area attending college, the detective said.

She told Inglehart that the two men messaged her on Facebook, citing their mutual friends on the platform.

The men asked Jane Doe 4 to meet and she agreed, Inglehart said, so they picked her up and went to a house near downtown San Luis Obispo.

At some point, Inglehart said, the conversation went from casual chatting to the men asking if the woman wanted to have a threesome.

Jane Doe 4 told the two men she did not think she would like a threesome, Inglehart said, and became very uncomfortable.

The men responded with something to the effect of, How do you know you dont like it if you dont try it? Inglehart said.

Thats when Abate placed his penis in Jane Doe 4s mouth and Contreras took off her pants and underwear and began raping her from behind, the detective said.

The men traded positions a few times and Jane Doe 4 was in shock and remained quiet, Inglehart said.

She asked the men for a ride home then blocked them from her accounts on social media and her phone, Inglehart said. She didnt speak of the encounter again until she saw Jane Doe 1s social media posts and the several posts that followed.

Abates lawyer argued that Jane Doe 1s case was a case of regret.

She never verbalized that she did not want to have intercourse, Taylor said, and waited for a decade to come forward with the allegations.

He also said that there was no physical corroboration of Jane Doe 1s story, noting that the womans friend did not want to be contacted by police and medical records regarding Jane Doe 1 being tested for a sexually transmitted disease could not be found.

San Luis Obispo County Deputy District Attorney Kimbery Dittrich responded that consent does not have to verbal.

The defendant  its obvious  continued to forcefully have intercourse with her despite her having a panic attack, and he knew because he was telling her to calm down and be quiet, she told the judge. A reasonable person under that situation would know that she was unwilling or unable to engage in sexual intercourse.

San Luis Obispo County Sheriffs Det. James Wyatt testifies during Nate Abates preliminary hearing in San Luis Obispo Superior Court on Aug. 29, 2023.

SLO County man gave minors alcohol, raped them, DA says

Two of the counts with which Abate has been charged pertain to alleged rapes against 14-year-old girls.

Sheriffs Office Det. James Wyatt testified he spoke with Jane Doe 2 in December 2022.

She told Wyatt she was 14 in 2009 when she and a 14-year-old friend, Jane Doe 3, were friends with Abate and Contreras.

They were excited that older men showed interest in them, the detective said.

Abate and Contreras were in their early 20s at the time.

One night, Wyatt said, the two girls sneaked out of their homes to attend a party at Contreras home in Santa Margarita.

A friend drove them to the party, the detective said, and Jane Doe 2 drank tequila and vodka at the house.

At 14, Wyatt said, Jane Doe 2 said she was a lightweight and was blacking out at various parts of the night. She said she asked Abate for a glass of water, and he gave her a glass of vodka instead.

After sipping the vodka thinking it was water, Wyatt said, Jane Doe 2 told Abate she felt sick.

She told Wyatt that Abate then guided her down a hallway into a bedroom.

There was another person in the bedroom, Wyatt said, but Jane Doe 2 did not know who it was because of her level of intoxication.

According to Wyatt, Jane Doe 2 remembers Abate turning on porn before she blacked out.

She woke up with Abate on top her raping her, Wyatt said.

Jane Doe 2 said she tried to fight back and squirm, but Abates body pinned her down and she felt trapped.

She blacked out again, and woke up alone without her pants or underwear, Wyatt said.

The girl hadnt had sex before, Wyatt said, and she was bleeding from her vagina because of the encounter.

Jane Doe 2 found her friend and then called her mom to pick her up, the detective said.

Wyatt said Jane Doe 2s mother tried to convince her daughter to report the alleged rape to law enforcement, but the girl was afraid of retaliation from the men.

The mother told Wyatt she was also a victim of sexual assault, and wanted to meet her daughter where she was at rather than pressure her to do something she wasnt yet comfortable with.

Jane Doe 2s mother seemed relieved when her daughter was finally ready to come forward, Wyatt said.

He said that the mother had found her daughter four days after the assault sobbing and shaking, thinking that she may have been drugged at the party and was having flashbacks of Abate raping her.

Nate Abates defense attorney, Scott Taylor, questions a witness during a preliminary hearing in San Luis Obispo Superior Court on Aug. 29, 2023.

Taylor repeated multiple times that the mother had not gone to law enforcement about what happened to her daughter, to which Wyatt responded that the mother was supporting her daughter the way the girl wanted support.

Jane Doe 3, also said she was assaulted by Abate and Contreras when she was 14, Wyatt said.

The incident is alleged to have happened at the same house as Jane Doe 2s rape, but at another time.

The first time Wyatt spoke with Jane Doe 3, Wyatt said, she wanted to talk but was still traumatized by the incident and asked to talk at a later time with her therapist present, which she did in the following weeks.

Jane Doe 3 told Wyatt that the two men picked her up from Paso Robles High School.

While in the car, the men brought up sex and suggested possibly having a threesome together, Wyatt said.

The 14-year-old didnt like conflict, she told Wyatt, and thought it would be easier to say yes than no.

She told Wyatt she didnt want to see what was going to happen to her and asked the men to put her in a blindfold.

According to the detective, the rape that Jane Doe 3 described was similar to the one described by Jane Doe 4, with the men trading positions.

Jane Doe 6 was also raped by Abate and Contreras when she was 14, Wyatt said. Her story is similar to Jane Doe 2s, only the porn shown depicted the rape of Jane Doe 3, the detective said.

Jane Doe 3 did not know she was being recorded, Wyatt said.

Wyatt noted that other witnesses had told him underage girls regularly attended parties hosted by Abate and Contreras.

Jane Doe 6s rape case against Abate did go to through the court system in 2012, Taylor noted, but it was pleaded down to misdemeanor false imprisonment.

Taylor noted that Jane Doe 6 allegedly said she did not cooperate with law enforcement because she wanted to protect Contreras.

Taylor alleged the 14-year-old Jane Does could have talked with one another before speaking to law enforcement, especially since one asked to speak to law enforcement at a later time.

Wyatt said it made sense for a sexual assault victim to want mental health support at an interview like that and did not think the three Jane Does were influencing each others stories.

Taylor then asked Wyatt to confirm that he had not been able to corroborate the stories of the alleged victims mentioned above.

It depends on how you define corroboration, Wyatt responded. Ive spoken with several young women who describe similar incidents, who describe your client as being party to those incidents and who sexually assaulted them. So in my mind that counts as corroboration. Do I have physical evidence? I do not. I wish I did.

Taylor added that law enforcement has not found a video recording of any rape.

Wyatt responded there had only been one electronic device seized so far, and the Sheriffs Office does not know where to search for such a video recording at the moment.

Before the judges ruling, Taylor argued there was not any physical evidence in the case and noted that accusations  other than the one in 2012  were not made until a decade later following a social media firestorm.

Frye ultimately ruled against Abate, whose new arraignment is set for Sept. 7.

Abates lawyer has filed a motion to dismiss the case, alleging the cases have exceeded the statute of limitations. That will also be heard Sept. 7.

Earlier in the hearing, Dittrich told Frye the District Attorneys Office would no longer be offering Abate any more plea deals as his legal team has not responded to any of the agencys offers. The negotiation process may restart if the defense makes an offer first, she said.

How to get help

If you or someone you know are a survivor of sexual assault, you can call the National Sexual Assault Telephone Hotline at 800-656-4673. The hotline offers a range of free services including confidential support from a trained staff member, help finding a local health facility, legal and medical advice and referrals for long-term support.

If you or someone you know are a survivor of domestic violence, you can call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 800-799-7233. The hotline offers a range of free services including confidential support from a trained staff member, help finding a local health facility, legal and medical advice and referrals for long-term support.

Survivor support and resources are also available through Lumina Alliance at luminaalliance.org or their Crisis and Information Line at 805-545-8888.
U.S. authorities continue to enforce the Title 42 rules in Eagle Pass

By Ted Hesson

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - A smuggler with ties to a foreign extremist group helped Uzbek migrants enter the U.S. from Mexico, the White House said on Tuesday, raising questions about a potential security threat.

The smuggler was based in Turkey and had links to the jihadist Islamic State, also known as ISIS, according to a U.S. official who spoke on condition of anonymity. CNN first reported the incident.

Record numbers of migrants have crossed the U.S.-Mexico border illegally since President Joe Biden , a Democrat, took office in 2021, including many from distant nations.

Republicans say Biden encouraged crossings by reversing tougher policies of former President Donald Trump, a Republican. The Biden administration argues that it has instituted more humane policies as migration has challenged countries across the Western Hemisphere.

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Of the nearly 2 million migrants encountered at the U.S.-Mexico border between October 2022 and July 2023, 216 were on U.S. watchlists for potential links to terrorism, according to U.S. government statistics.

U.S. intelligence officials discovered a smuggling network to bring Uzbeks into the country and a smuggler with ties to a U.S.-designated foreign terrorist organization, White House National Security Council spokesperson Adrienne Watson said in a statement.

U.S. authorities have no indication that migrants aided by the smuggling network were tied to extremist groups or plotting terrorist attacks, Watson said.

Watson did not confirm links to the Islamic State specifically or that the smuggler was based in Turkey.

Migrants who "fit the profile" of those assisted by the smugglers are being placed in rapid deportation proceedings and "thoroughly vetted," Watson said.

The U.S. official said the FBI is trying to locate about 15 of roughly 120 Uzbek migrants who entered the U.S. through legal border crossings via the network.

An FBI spokesperson said the agency "has not identified a specific terrorism plot associated with foreign nationals who recently entered the United States at the southern border," and declined to comment on specifics.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection encountered some 3,200 Uzbeks at U.S borders in fiscal year 2022, up from fewer than 700 a year earlier.

(Reporting by Ted Hesson in Washington; Additional reporting by Humeyra Pamuk in Washington; Mica Rosenberg in New York, and Lizbeth Diaz in Mexico City; Editing by Mary Milliken and Andy Sullivan)
Ready for a cold, snowy winter?

That's what the "Old Farmer's Almanac" predicts is in store for southcentral Pennsylvania this year.

It is predicting above-normal precipitation and snowfall for the Appalachians region, which includes southcentral Pennsylvania.

"The Old Farmer's Almanac" is prediciting a cold, snowy winter for south-central Pennsylvania. The area falls under the Appalachian region.

"The snowiest spells will occur in late December, mid- to late January, and early to mid-February," the almanac predicts.

The "Old Farmer's Almanac" seems to agree with the "Farmers' Almanac," which issued its winter prediction earlier this month. That publication, which dates to 1818, is calling for a "frosty, flakey and slushy" one.

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"For those of you living along the I-95 corridor from Washington to Boston, who saw a lack of wintry precipitation last winter, you should experience quite the opposite, with lots of rain/sleet and snowstorms to contend with," the "Farmers' Almanac" forecast in a news release.

Will there be a white Christmas?

Residents in southcentral Pennsylvania hoping for a white Christmas are out of luck, according to the "Old Farmer's Almanac." It predicts one in the higher terrain of West Virginia in the north but nowhere else.

Chances of receiving an inch or more of snow for Christmas is low in the region, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's Climate website.

York, for example, only has a 15% chance.

'Farmers' Almanac': Don't expect a mild winter in central Pennsylvania like last year

How to get a copy of the 'The Old Farmer's Almanac'

The 2024 edition of "The Old Farmer's Almanac" is on sale for $8.99 at stores that sell books and magazines.

Apples, pawpaws, and pumpkins: Fall festivals abound in York and Adams counties

This article originally appeared on York Daily Record: Snowy winter predicted for central PA by 'The Old Farmer's Almanac'
The son of a man who was murdered inside a Kentucky federal prison says investigators have long known who was responsible for his fathers death and questions why prosecution took so long.

Michael Bennett, 35, of Springfield, Illinois, said he was unaware two men were indicted in his fathers death  years after the incident  until this week. His father was fatally beaten inside USP McCreary, a federal facility in McCreary County.

Since my dad was killed, it was like pulling teeth to get information out, Bennett said.

U.S. Attorney William Pearce Nesbitt said he had no comment on the issue.

Jeremy Lynn Bunch, 37, and Kenneth Paul King, 43, are charged with second-degree murder and aiding and abetting after causing the death of 50-year-old Brian Bennett, according to court documents. A grand jury indicted the two men Thursday and said the men, with malice aforethought, did unlawfully kill Brian Bennett by repeatedly striking him.

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Michael Bennett said the attack happened in the lunch room while his father was eating, and it was all caught on video.

They have been knowing these two men did this before they indicted them, Bennett said.  ... What I dont understand is how it took two years to get an indictment when they knew who did this. Out here in the real world, it would not take two years. It is all real crazy.

Representatives with USP McCreary werent available to comment Monday.

His father had been inside USP McCreary two months before he was attacked. However, Brian Bennett had sent letters home to his mother and Michael Bennett talking about how scared he was, and said he didnt think he would make it home, Michael Bennett said.

He feared for his life the whole time he was in there, Bennett said of his dad. He wanted to go into solitary confinement, he was fearing for his life so bad.

Brian Bennett was serving a 10-year sentence for distribution of methamphetamine and possession of a firearm as a felon, according to court documents. Hed served much of his sentence at other prisons and his time was almost fully served, Michael Bennett said.

Michael Bennett said he is crushed over the death of his father. He said he still has bad dreams, cannot sleep, and his fathers death is something he will never really get over.

It is not like he was stabbed to death  there were no shanks. He was beat to death. They let my father get beat to death, he said. That is crazy to me. ... I want answers and I want someone to be held responsible.

Michael Bennett has filed a federal lawsuit against prison officials, medical staff, inmates and prison staff at USP McCreary. The lawsuit alleges the prisons violated the Eighth Amendment, subjecting his father to cruel and unusual punishment. He says his fathers killing was a wrongful death in federal prison. Hes seeking $5 million in damages, court documents say. Fort Leavenworth officials are also being sued.

All defendants, including officials from the McCreary County prison and Fort Leavenworth, have filed a motion to dismiss the lawsuits, according to court documents. The issue is awaiting a court hearing.

Michael Bennett remembers his father as someone who was always helping someone whenever they needed it. He said his dad was a good carpenter and farmer who worked hard.

He did a lot for everybody, he said. He was always there anytime someone called for help.

Michael Bennett said he takes no comfort in the two men being indicted for his fathers murder, fearing they will take a plea deal and receive less time.

If you can beat a man until he is dead, I expect the same justice  not second-degree murder, he said. Justice is justice and I dont think I am ever going to get any, honestly.
This sign welcomes visitors to the offices of Adee Honey Farms, a beekeeping business started in 1959 in Bruce, S.D., which is now one of the worlds largest bee providers to the agricultural industry.

For more than a decade, beekeepers in South Dakota and around the country have been fighting against historically high annual colony loss rates of more than 30%.

The continued loss of colonies has the potential to affect roughly 100 different agricultural crops across the country and could raise food prices while decreasing food availability, according to an article from the University of Florida Extension.

In 2022-23, the nations beekeepers experienced a 48.2% annual loss rate of managed honey bee colonies, a 9.2% increase from the 2021-2022 season. However, 2020-21 reached a 50.8% colony loss rate, the highest annual loss rate on record, according to data gathered by the non-profit honey bee research group Bee Informed Partnership.

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Wild bee populations have also suffered.

In 2017, the rusty patched bumble bee became the first native bee species in the lower 48 states to be placed on the federal endangered species list by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. That same year, several non-governmental conservation groups said roughly 347 other species of native bees also are threatened.

Without pollination from bees, many of which are trucked around the country from their summer home in South Dakota to provide pollination services, experts worry the price of common food items such as strawberries and apples could rise.

High colony loss rates arent new to the industry.

Beekeepers often make agreements with local landowners to place hives in hayfields or pastures. These hives were placed in a hayfield that saw a massive bloom of sweet clover, a prime bee food source that results in the mild, light-colored honey that South Dakota is renowned for producing.

Over the last 12 years, the U.S. has averaged a 39.6% annual colony loss rate among its domestic bees, according to the Bee Informed Partnership.

Any business that has a 30% annual loss rate, thats getting to be unsustainable, said John Stolle, a beekeeper near Sturgis.

From 2019 to 2022, honey production in South Dakota fell from 19.44 million pounds to about 7.5 million pounds, according to USDA data.

There isnt much historical population data on the more than 4,000 native bee species in North America.

The Center for Biological Diversity published one of the few comprehensive reports on the continents native bee population in 2017. The report found that there was sufficient data to assess the population of about 1,400 bee species. Roughly half those species were declining and 347 of them were determined to be threatened, the report said.

No one has been able to pinpoint a single cause for the widespread devastation of honeybees or native bees. Instead, a combination of factors is at play in the beehives themselves and in the fields where the bees look for pollen and nectar.

The whole environment has changed, said Kelvin Adee, a co-owner of Adee Honey Farms, which is based in Bruce, South Dakota, and one of the largest beekeeping operations in the world.

Flowering plants such as milkweed have been virtually eliminated from the fields growing the states top two crops, corn and soybeans. Those grains, which have seen their acreage greatly expanded in South Dakota over the past two decades, can spell harm for bees.

Tim Hollmann, a beekeeper from Dante, South Dakota, said the problem with corn and soybeans is two-fold.

First, the fields tend to be devoid of any plant life other than corn or soybeans, thanks to the use of glyphosate herbicides such as Roundup.

Bees need flowers from which to draw the pollen and nectar they eat and use to make honey. A 2018 study by a group of researchers at the University of Texas also showed that glyphosates may be harming gut bacteria in bees and making the insects more susceptible to disease.

The second problem with corn and soybean fields is pesticides.

Neonicotinoids are one of the most popular pesticides and are named for their chemical makeup that is similar to nicotine. When bees get hit with stray spray from a farm field, they die. Neonicotinoids are used all over the world and on various food crops because compared with other chemical pesticides, theyre considered relatively safe for humans.

A lot of seeds are sold coated with neonicotinoids, which are then absorbed into the growing plant. A bee can pick up a non-lethal dose by landing on such plants and then can carry the chemicals back to the colony and expose other bees which are weakened.

Pesticides also help boost crop yields and keep food prices down, said Amanda Bachmann, an urban entomology field specialist with the South Dakota State University Extension Service. Taking an effective tool for controlling pests away from farmers could cause as much harm as good, she said.

Ultimately, a parasite acts as one of the biggest threats facing bees.

Varroa destructor, better known as the varroa mite, has been ravaging North American bee hives for decades. The mite first was found in the U.S. in 1987.

Varroa destructor is native to Asia and acts similar to a tick. The mite attaches to a bee and feeds on its fat body tissue, which is similar to a mammals liver, weakening the host and making it more susceptible to disease and starvation when food runs low, according to research from the University of Maryland.

A closeup of a bee that was collected in Badlands National Park.

Varroa mites also carry diseases such as deformed wing virus that can kill bees and infect whole colonies. Diseases have long been a killer of domestic bees and are easily spread because honey bees are social creatures. Often, honey bees interact with both wild bees and domestic bees from other colonies while out foraging up to three miles from their hive.

Even with all the doom and gloom surrounding the beekeeping industry, domestic honey bees are in no immediate danger of extinction. The people who harvest bees for pollination and sell honey could be the ones in trouble.

Were not at a tipping point yet, but were getting there, Stolle said.

Luckily, most farmers and ranchers seem to be concerned about bees and the landscape they live on, Bret Adee said. There is a strong movement in South Dakota to diversify crops and focus on soil health as a way to boost farm incomes. Whats good for soil is generally good for bees too, he said.

This article was produced by South Dakota News Watch, a non-profit journalism organization located online at sdnewswatch.org.

This article originally appeared on Sioux Falls Argus Leader: As bee losses prevail, beekeepers struggles continue
SEOUL (Reuters) - South Korea unveiled on Tuesday financial aid of 520 billion won ($394 million) for Ukraine next year, an eightfold increase from this year.

The aid package includes 130 billion won for reconstruction, 260 billion in humanitarian aid and another 130 billion won through international organisations, according to South Korea's 2024 budget.

In July, President Yoon Suk Yeol announced his country would provide a "large scale of military supplies" this year without giving more details.

On Tuesday, Yoon also announced an increase in South Korea's Official Development Assistance for strategic areas, including the Asia-Pacific region and Africa, from 1.4 trillion won to 2 trillion won ($1.51 billion).

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The increase in overseas assistance is part of an effort to help South Korean companies branch out abroad and secure national interests, such as the supply chains, and to take responsibility as a key member of the global community, the Ministry of Economy and Finance said in the budget announcement.

($1 = 1,320.9600 won)

(Reporting by Hyunsu Yim; Editing by Simon Cameron-Moore)
Investigators in Germany suspect a company of selling electronic components used to produce Russian Orlan-10 drones, German media outlet Der Spiegel reported on Aug. 29.

The Federal Prosecutor's Office is investigating a man, identified as Waldemar W., for 26 cases of violating the Foreign Trade and Payments Act, according to Der Spiegel.

The Orlan-10 is a reconnaissance drone used by the Russian military. The total value of the components the man sold are estimated to be around 750,000 ($811,000).

The suspect is in custody following an arrest warrant from the Federal Court of Justice.

Der Spiegel noted that the man started the trade in 2020, and continued to sell the components to Russia until March 2023. He did not appear to have paused his business amidst the launch of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine.

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Der Speigel referenced a Dec. 2022 report from the U.K-based think tank Royal United Services Institute (RUSI), which pointed to a German company as a likely supplier of electronics for Russian reconnaissance drones.

RUSI described the Orlan-10 as "one of the most critical systems contributing to the lethality" of Russian forces in Ukraine.

The drone is "relatively-inexpensive, mass-produced," and highly effective, RUSI said.

The investigators believe the businessman, who has both German and Russian citizenship, sent the components to Russia via third-party countries such as Lithuania and the United Arab Emirates.

The RUSI report highlighted how components for the Orlan-10 are "being procured and trans-shipped using intermediaries in the US, Europe, Hong Kong and China," despite western sanctions.

Ukraine has repeatedly raised the issue of Russia using third-party countries to bypass sanctions with its allies, after finding western-made components in Russian drones.

On July 20, U.S. sanctioned several Kyrgyz companies that were suspected of helping Russia bypass sanctions.

The European Council also adopted new sanctions against Iran on July 20, which prohibit the export of components to Iran which are commonly used in the construction of Shahed attack drones used by Russia.

Read also: Expert group: 67% of foreign components in Russian drones originate in China

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
American spies and intelligence agencies are quietly on the frontlines of a global battle against fentanyl, a drug ravaging communities across the United States. Now a tool the CIA says is critical to that fight is at risk in Congress this fall.

A 9/11-era surveillance program is enabling the intelligence community to monitor the production line of fentanyl overseas  from the smuggling of chemicals across the Pacific to its assembly in clandestine facilities throughout Mexico. Known as Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act, the program allows law enforcement and intelligence agencies to surveil foreigners who are located abroad and communicating on U.S. internet and phone service providers, without obtaining a warrant.

Intelligence officials tell McClatchy it has become a crucial asset in their fight against a synthetic opioid killing more Americans each year than all other drugs combined.

But the program appears imperiled for the first time since its creation 15 years ago by a new set of critics and amid political fallout over the investigation of Donald Trump s 2016 presidential campaign.

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Section 702 is the reason intelligence officials know that the overwhelming majority of chemicals used in fentanyl trace back to China, officials said. And it has provided intelligence linking at least one foreign government official to the trade.

Intelligence collected using Section 702 has proven critical in disrupting specific transfer attempts of vast quantities of fentanyl pills across the U.S. southern border, a U.S. intelligence official told McClatchy, speaking under the condition of anonymity to discuss sensitive intelligence operations, and has allowed the U.S. government to warn commercial shipping giants that smugglers are using their freight to conceal chemical loads.

702 is really the only source of information that allows us to stay dynamic in thwarting the threat, the intelligence official said. If we were to lose it, it would make us blind.

The program has also been instrumental in the recruitment of foreigners abroad to spy for the United States to penetrate smuggling organizations, monitor their tactics and disrupt the supply chain of fentanyl before it reaches the homeland as a finished product, multiple intelligence officials said.

It has helped the CIA learn the habits of potential spies before they are even approached for recruitment. And intelligence officials said it has also helped protect agents from being placed in danger in the field, when remote surveillance of a target is a viable alternative.

The intelligence official described a scenario in which a drug cartel is preparing to smuggle thousands of fentanyl pills to the United States in a single run. Its chemical suppliers in Asia, its pill press manufacturer, its choice of commercial shipper and its ultimate choice of smuggler would all be talking  communications that can be monitored in real-time using the FISA program.

Section 702 has allowed us to illuminate networks in the global supply chain  from precursor to shipment, from soup to nuts, the intelligence official said. It gives us insight into some of the quantities and potency of some of the drugs produced. Its given us insight into specific smuggling techniques that the networks use to avoid detection.

Theyre communicating not unlike other businessmen, the official added. They have profits, they have margins, they have middlemen, they have lawyers.

Andrea McCutcheon looks at photos of her daughter Valerie Vineyard, who died from a fentanyl poisoning on May 27, 2021 at the age of 19, and her boyfriend Harrison. Vineyard and Harrison were both found unconscious the morning after they decided to take a Percocet pill. Vineyards boyfriend survived, but she did not.

Democrats have long questioned whether Section 702 infringes on the constitutional rights of U.S. citizens. The program allows intelligence officials to collect data on targeted individuals with precision and speed by compelling a U.S. telecommunications provider, such as Google or Verizon, to provide the contents of specific email accounts or phone lines of foreigners abroad without the need for a warrant.

As a consequence, it also allows for incidental collection of communications between U.S. citizens and those foreign targets  a backdoor, critics argue, for the warrantless surveillance of Americans. Civil liberties advocates also question whether, even with creative interpretations, the law permits intelligence officers to collect information for counternarcotics operations.

Republicans, too, are now raising questions over the program, accusing the FBI of abusing FISA powers in its investigation of Trumps 2016 campaign. An internal review of the FBI investigation found that its application for a FISA warrant on one of Trumps top campaign advisers at the time was based on false information.

Its evident that the FBI has been weaponized, and its far past time for reforms after the FBI has repeatedly used their power to go after political opponents, Sen. Eric Schmitt, a Missouri Republican, told McClatchy when asked for his position on Section 702 reauthorization. Ill be watching this closely as it moves forward.

The bipartisan skepticism puts Section 702 in jeopardy for the first time since its initial passage in 2008, when the program was first designed to track down terrorist plots.

Biden administration officials are growing anxious over the fate of the program, which is set to expire at the end of the year.

We are hearing calls for reform from both sides, without agreement on what the reform should be, a senior administration official said. And until we get the votes we need to confirm they are a yes on reauthorization, we will be concerned.

A DIFFERENT BATTLE

The debate has shed light on the intelligence communitys use of the program to fight a pervasive drug crisis.

Were dealing with a very deadly threat in fentanyl, Under Secretary of Homeland Security for Intelligence and Analysis Kenneth Wainstein told McClatchy. Its horribly lethal. Its trafficking sale is incredibly lucrative. The Mexican drug-dealing cartels are heavily involved in it, with deadly efficiency, and they dont care about the human results of that trade.

When you put those things together, that makes for a very dangerous threat to our nation, to our people, to our national security, Wainstein said. Its a threat that has come to the fore that we didnt have to deal with in the past.

For decades, intelligence agencies have been able to monitor acres of foreign coca farms and opium poppy fields from the air before crops were turned into cocaine and heroin. Intelligence officers could trace the entire supply chain with basic surveillance tools that help them disrupt major drug trafficking operations.

Fentanyl poses a new kind of threat, U.S. officials say, because of the source of its basic ingredients and the simplicity of its production.

Since 2018, fentanyl has driven a record surge in drug overdose deaths across the country. Over 70,000 Americans died from synthetic opioids  primarily fentanyl  in 2021, the last year with verified data from the National Institutes of Health, accounting for 66% of all overdose deaths that year. Provisional data from the National Center for Health Statistics suggests that overdose deaths plateaued in 2022.

Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas participates in a fireside chat with the Under Secretary of Intelligence and Analysis, Kenneth L. Wainstein, at the Nebraska Avenue Complex in Washington, DC, on June 7, 2023.

The Mexican government has been a cooperative partner, U.S. officials said. But Chinese entities smuggling precursor chemicals are constantly adapting their tactics. Todd Robinson, assistant secretary of state for international narcotics and law enforcement, said last month that Beijing needs to do more as a global partner to disrupt the fentanyl trade, given its position as a primary source of critical materials.

Instead of selling the finished product, you now have an incredible array of Chinese companies selling precursor chemicals which are then shipped, in various ways, overwhelmingly to Mexico, which cartels then mix in relatively simple ways, Deputy Homeland Security Advisor Josh Geltzer told McClatchy.

Producers take advantage of the bustle of commercial shipping traffic to transport the chemicals from China to Mexico, and from there can simply produce the drug in the secretive settings of store basements and apartment units.

One pill really can kill, Geltzer added, so I think it raises the stakes in our effort to reduce the supply, and in understanding the supply chain at the earliest stages.

PROGRAM IN JEOPARDY

For a decade, the political debate over Section 702 largely stemmed from privacy advocates alarmed by the broad powers afforded to U.S. intelligence agencies under the surveillance law.

The Obama administration secretly secured approval from a FISA court in 2011 to use the program to search Americans communications with foreign individuals without warrants, including intercepted phone calls and emails, in cases related to national security investigations. It was one of many revelations on the program unveiled by Edward Snowden, a former National Security Agency contractor, in 2013, before he fled to Russia.

Section 702 was reauthorized in 2018. But the program was back under scrutiny within months of that vote, after the inspector general of the FBI published a scathing report outlining systemic abuse at the agency of its surveillance authorities.

The FBI had used false statements in its application for a warrant to surveil Carter Page, a foreign policy advisor to Trump in his 2016 presidential campaign who was suspected of coordinating with Russia. Nearly one in five FISA queries at the agency failed to comply with legal standards.

A used package of Narcan lies on the ground in East St. Louis on Aug. 22. Narcan is a brand of naxolone, a medication designed to rapidly reverse overdose of fentanyl, heroin and other opioids.

In May, a FISA court unsealed its memorandum finding the FBI had misused Section 702 over 278,000 times, including searches of individuals involved in protests around the killing of George Floyd in 2020, suspects in the Jan. 6, 2021, riot at the U.S. Capitol, and donors to an unnamed candidate for Congress.

The inspector generals report, a subsequent audit, and the unsealed court documents seemed to confirm the worst fears of progressives long opposed to the expansive use of FISA authorities  and added new critics on the right allied with Trump, who has railed against the surveillance law ever since.

The most recent audit published in May found the FBI has since come into regular compliance with the law. But that hasnt stopped lawmakers from threatening to oppose its renewal amid broader criticism of the surveillance law.

In June, a hearing held by the Senate Judiciary Committee laid bare bipartisan skepticism of the program and the risk that Congress could fail to reauthorize it.

Sen. Thom Tillis, a North Carolina Republican, urged his colleagues to support reauthorization, invoking his partys promise to combat the fentanyl trade. But he acknowledged a difficult path lay ahead trying to find consensus.

Law enforcement personnel need to be armed with tools they need to detect and respond to increasingly sophisticated threats from our nations adversaries, Tillis later told McClatchy. There have also been disturbing documented abuses of FISA that cannot be repeated.

COST OF FAILURE IS REAL

Ahead of a deadline to renew the law by the end of the year, McClatchy asked lawmakers across the country whether Congress failure to reauthorize the program would impact the trajectory of the fentanyl epidemic.

A majority of those asked across both parties said they support reauthorization with significant reform  but with time running out, few articulated the reforms required to earn their support.

The Presidents Intelligence Advisory Board, which advises presidents on the quality and legality of foreign intelligence activities, issued a report in July warning that reauthorization may be in jeopardy due to failures at the FBI and the political fallout.

Complacency, a lack of proper procedures, and the sheer volume of Section 702 activity led to FBIs inappropriate use of Section 702 authorities, specifically U.S. person queries, the report said.

But the board found no evidence of willful misuse of these authorities by FBI for political purposes, it continued, noting the Justice Department had only identified three incidents of intentional misconduct from among millions of FBI queries using Section 702 information.

The cost of failure is real, the board report asserted, warning of broad consequences for national security if the program is not renewed. If Congress fails to reauthorize Section 702, history may judge the lapse of Section 702 authorities as one of the worst intelligence failures of our time.

The board recommended several reforms to secure congressional passage that the administration has largely endorsed, proposing the FBI hire a designated compliance officer and also the establishment of an independent review office that directly reports to the president. And it recommended compelling the Justice Department to remove the FBIs authority to search Americans names using Section 702 data for evidence in crimes unrelated to national security threats.

It also suggested that Congress should direct the government to submit a new counternarcotics certification under Section 702 to the surveillance court, with much of their reasoning redacted.

CIA headquarters in Langley, Virginia.

A U.S. official said that, under the current authorities, there are circumstances in which (intelligence) collection on foreign narcotics traffickers is authorized. Congress has been briefed on the use of Section 702 to track drug cartels, whose communications with Chinese suppliers have then been collected secondhand. But a new certification could broaden the power of intelligence agencies to monitor secondary players in the fentanyl trade.

The reform debate is about this programs broad intrusion on Americans privacy, said Patrick Toomey, deputy director of the ACLUs National Security Project. If the purpose of Section 702 is to target foreigners for intelligence purposes, as officials often say, then they should stop stonewalling robust protections for Americans.

Toomey questioned whether existing legal certifications for use of Section 702 allowed for intelligence collection unrelated to threats from foreign government entities, terrorist organizations, or weapons of mass destruction. Not all certifications for FISA use are public  yet another criticism among advocates of transparency.

There is no evidence that a warrant requirement for Americans would harm national security, Toomey said.

While Section 702 first passed in the aftermath of the attacks on 9/11, use of the program has expanded significantly over time. Section 702 first passed into law in 2008  months after Apple brought the iPhone to market, leading a global expansion of U.S. telecommunications that has proven serendipitous and invaluable to the American intelligence community.

Other surveillance powers allow intelligence agencies to collect communications data overseas. But then the burden falls on intelligence officials to obtain that material on foreign communications servers, often in hostile territory, and to comb through tranches of data, a time-consuming task. Intelligence officials say those tactics also risk intercepting the communications of Americans  and do not allow the sort of precise, speedy searches that have made Section 702 so powerful.

Today, the reliance of transnational criminal organizations, hostile government actors, terrorist groups and drug cartels on U.S. communications platforms provides a strategic advantage to the United States that would be foolish to waste, the U.S. intelligence official said. The official noted that 60% of the material in the presidents daily brief  intelligence information compiled for the president every day  relies on information collected using Section 702.

No one is satisfied with where we are on the fentanyl issue, said Geltzer, the presidents deputy homeland security advisor, noting thousands of Americans are still dying from the drug each month.

But critics of the governments response to the epidemic, and of the surveillance program, risk aggravating both, he said.

I would say to them, dont blind us to the insights that have at least gotten us this far, Geltzer added. At a minimum, dont blind us to that which already has helped us make some progress against this threat.

Daniel Desrochers of the Kansas City Star and Danielle Battaglia of the Charlotte Observer contributed reporting.
(Bloomberg) -- Democratic Republic of Congo accused Rwanda and the M23 armed group of delaying a peace process that would allow voters in eastern Congo to participate in December elections.

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Officials have been blocked for months from entering rebel territory to finalize the registration process, which officially ended in April. The disarming of the militia has stalled over M23s refusal to completely withdraw their troops without first holding talks with Congos government, a demand Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi has refused.

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The US government, like other international partners, is pressuring us to hold these elections on time, spokesman Patrick Muyaya said by phone. But there are about 1.5 million of our compatriots in Masisi and Rutshuru who have not yet been enrolled because of the presence of the M23.

Conflict has plagued resource-rich eastern Congo for decades, and animosity between its government and neighbor Rwanda has raised fears of wider fighting. The election could have a bearing on billions of dollars of mining developments in the worlds biggest producer of cobalt and other minerals used for technologies like electric-vehicle batteries.

The more than two-year-old offensive by the rebel group, which says its protecting the rights of the Congolese Tutsi community, has led to the displacement of more than 1 million people, according to the United Nations.

Read More: Why Congo and Rwanda Hurl Insults as Violence Flares: QuickTake

The M23 are backed by neighboring Rwanda according to Congos government and UN experts, though Rwanda denies it. Rwanda, where the 1994 genocide killed an estimated 850,000 Tutsis and moderate Hutus, supported a previous M23 rebellion that Congos army and UN peacekeepers defeated in 2013.

Rwanda is committed to the ongoing regional peace mechanism  our priority is security along our Western border as well as stability and development for our entire region, spokeswoman Yolande Makolo said in an emailed response to questions.

US Sanctions

Rwandan Hutu rebel groups with links to the perpetrators of the genocide are still active in eastern Congo and have received support from some members of Congos army to fight the M23, according to UN experts and Rwandas government.

The US last week sanctioned several members of one Hutu rebel group and a Congolese colonel who worked with them. Washington also sanctioned a top commander in Rwandas army for its involvement in killings in Congo.

Congo wants more US sanctions of Rwandan officials, Muyaya said, in part because military action hasnt worked. A force from the East African Community that arrived last year is ineffective and too friendly with the rebels, he said.

Read More: Coltan-Rich Congo Provinces Put Under Martial Law to Stem Tumult

The government is currently in talks with the Southern African Development Community about another peacekeeping unit that could arrive this year.

The EAC and SADC forces are meant to secure territory given up by the M23 and begin the process with UN peacekeepers and Congos army to contain, disarm and demobilize the fighters, according to a series of agreements between Rwanda, Congo and regional leaders.

But the group refuses to cooperate.

The M23 asked the DRC government to come to the table to discuss, and then through the discussions were going to deal with the root causes of conflict because we are tired of the political issue becoming a military problem, M23 spokesman Lawrence Kanyuka said by phone. M23 doesnt have to withdraw anymore.

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By Humeyra Pamuk and Michael Martina

WASHINGTON (Reuters) -The U.S. State Department has picked veteran diplomat Mark Lambert as its top China policy official, five sources familiar with the matter said, bringing in new leadership for a part of the department that has faced staffing problems and criticism over its handling of China-focused initiatives.

Lambert will likely be named as the deputy assistant secretary for China and Taiwan, the sources said, filling the post left in June by Rick Waters.

Waters had also served as the head of the Office of China Coordination - informally known as 'China House' - a unit the department created late last year to meld China policies across regions and issues. Whether Lambert will assume the China House coordinator title is still being discussed, sources said.

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Lambert's appointment is unlikely to change the tone of Washington's China policy, which President Joe Biden's administration says is one of "intense competition" while trying to increase engagement with Beijing to stabilize ties.

But Lambert, a well-regarded diplomat with experience in East Asia, is certain to influence China House, which has been criticized for adding layers of bureaucracy to an already complex decision-making process.

It was unclear when the State Department will formally announce the appointment.

We have no personnel announcements to make at this time, but the Office of China Coordination remains an integral piece of the U.S. governments efforts to responsibly manage our competition with the Peoples Republic of China and advance our vision for an open, inclusive international system, a State Department spokesperson said in an emailed response to a request for comment.

The State Department pushed back on criticism about China House, saying it was one if its highest-functioning teams.

"It has improved coordination and facilitated senior leaders diplomacy and policymaking, with results including enabling the Departments response to the PRC surveillance balloon and rapid briefing of allies and partners around the world to expose the PRCs global program," a State Department official said.

SENATE CONFIRMATION

The U.S. and China are at odds over issues from Taiwan to trade, fentanyl and human rights, but Washington has sought to keep communication channels open ahead of a possible meeting later this year between Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping.

An Asia expert who did two stints at the U.S. embassy in Beijing, Lambert most recently served as a deputy assistant secretary focused on Japanese, Korean and Mongolian affairs, and on relations with Australia, New Zealand, and the Pacific Islands.

In the new role, he will continue to report to Assistant Secretary Daniel Kritenbrink who leads the department's East Asian and Pacific Affairs bureau.

Reuters reported in May that the State Department delayed sensitive actions toward China to try to limit damage to bilateral relations after an alleged Chinese spy balloon crossed U.S. airspace in February.

Senior officials have acknowledged morale and staffing problems at China House, but denied they were linked to how the State department carries out China policy.

Republicans in Congress have questioned whether the Biden administration's effort to engage with senior Chinese officials has led to watered-down measures toward Beijing, an idea the department rejects.

Republican concerns about China House have led to questions about whether the Senate, which has the power to confirm senior appointments, might insist on reviewing any nominee to run the unit.

If so, two of the sources said that rather than nominate Lambert to be China House coordinator the State Department might simply appoint an already confirmed official, such as Kritenbrink.

But two people familiar with Senate thinking told Reuters that for now, senators have no plans to force a confirmation process.

"(China House) is still a new experiment and we must wait to see how effective it is before we take steps to make it more permanent," said one of the people.

(Reporting by Humeyra Pamuk and Michael MartinaEditing by Don Durfee and Lincoln Feast)
A student who threatened to shoot up an Arlington high school Monday has been arrested, officials said.

Officers were dispatched to Seguin High School, at 7001 Silo Road, shortly before noon for a shooting in progress call, although no shots were fired. Police said a student had threatened to shoot people at the school. Seguin High was placed on lockdown while officers tried to locate the suspect, according to police.

The student was found with a weapon off-campus and was taken to the Juvenile Detention Center, officials said. The student had not returned to campus and no one was injured. Police did not release the name, age or other details about the juvenile suspect.

Two nearby schools, Pearcy STEM Academy and Ashworth Elementary School, were told to shelter in place during the police activity, Seguin High School officials said in a social media post.

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Threats were made against two other high schools in the area last week, according to Arlington police and Arlington ISD officials.

Arlington High School was placed on lockdown Aug. 21 and Lamar High School on Aug. 22 while police investigated threats against the campuses. No credible threats were found, officials said.
The Department of the Air Forces eligibility requirements are designed to allow Americas finest and fittest youth into the military. But those same rules are disproportionately keeping Black and Hispanic Americans out of uniform, limiting the Air Forces ability to look like the country it serves, a new think tank report has found.

The issue also keeps the Air Force from fully tapping into a slice of the American public that is more inclined to join the armed forces than their peers of other races and ethnicities.

The paper, published Aug. 24 by the federally funded think tank Rand Corp., adds to a growing body of research on diversity in the military.

Even as the Pentagon looks to boost recruitment and increase equity within its ranks, the Air Forces rules for entry could hobble those efforts, Rand researchers found.

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For instance, researchers said, Black men comprise 7% of the enlistment-age population  17 to 39 years old  but only 3.6% of them are otherwise eligible to join the Air Force. And while that age range includes 12% of Hispanic men, just 7% of them meet the departments other standards for health, education, citizenship, criminal records, tattoos and more.

Similar trends hold for the opposite sex. Hispanic women make up more than 10% of the age-eligible pool of prospective enlistees, but that falls to 8% when considering other eligibility requirements. Black women comprise 7% of Americans who are old enough to join the Air Force, but less than 5% are otherwise eligible to enlist.

Similar disparities affect Black and Hispanic Americans looking to join the officer corps, which requires a college degree and skews whiter and more male than on the enlisted side.

The biggest hurdle to enlistment for those demographics, according to Rand, are the Air Forces education and testing requirements. Aspiring enlistees with a high school diploma must score at least 31 on the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB), a medley of quantitative and qualitative assessments. Those without a diploma must score at least 65.

Rands models suggest that prerequisite shrinks Black and Hispanic representation in the department by 2% to 3.5%, depending on the subset of gender, race and ethnicity.

The Air Force has noted that some aspiring officers for whom English is not their first language score above average on the math-focused portion of the Air Force entrance exam, but fail the verbal portion because of their language barrier. In 2021, the service rolled out changes to how those tests are scored in an effort to give non-native English speakers a better shot at passing.

The Air Force has tweaked other recruiting rules, such as allowing people to join with higher body fat percentages and some hand and neck tattoos, to cast a wider net without significantly sacrificing quality. It can also issue waivers to prospects who fail to meet certain standards and help prospective airmen study before they take their entrance tests.

Rand researchers determined that higher propensity to serve among Black and Hispanic Americans helps offset the dent in minority representation.

As of March 31, 15% of active duty Air Force and Space Force officers and enlisted members were Black, according to the Air Force Personnel Center. They are slightly overrepresented in the department compared to the overall U.S. population, which is 14% Black, according to the latest U.S. Census Bureau data from July 2022.

Another 17% of the active duty Air Force and Space Force is Hispanic or Latino, or slightly underrepresented compared to a 19% share of the U.S. population.

Military officials insist that recruiting and retaining troops of different races, ethnicities and genders is a national security imperative.

Since 2020, the Department of the Air Force has launched multiple studies and created working groups to explore how existing policies on topics from pilot training to facial hair might unfairly disadvantage airmen of color. Those efforts have been spearheaded by the services inspector general and an Office of Diversity and Inclusion that opened in 2021.

Attracting a diverse pool of new troops bodes well for the health of the military at large, the authors stressed.

Because most military personnel begin their careers at the entry-level pay grade and positions are filled by promoting from within, achieving diversity at the point of accession is critical to growing and maintaining a diverse workforce across all pay grades, they wrote. A lack of diversity at accession limits the pool of diverse individuals who can be promoted to higher ranks.
Miami Mayor Francis Suarez (R) announced Tuesday hes suspending his campaign for the White House.

Running for President of the United States has been one of the greatest honors of my life, Suarez said in a release announcing the move, adding, It was a privilege to come so close to appearing on stage with the other candidates at last weeks first debate.

While I have decided to suspend my campaign for President, my commitment to making this a better nation for every American remains, Suarez added.

The end of his short-lived presidential bid comes a week after he failed to make the GOPs first primary debate stage in Milwaukee, falling short of the Republican National Committees (RNC) polling requirements to qualify for the event despite reporting that his campaign had hit the donor requirements.

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It was a privilege to come so close to appearing on stage with the other candidates at last weeks first debate, Suarez said in his statement.

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Suarez earlier this month had suggested that candidates who didnt meet the RNC requirements should drop out of the primary.

The two-term Miami mayor launched his long-shot 2024 campaign in mid-June. Alongside former President Trump and Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, he became the third Floridian to jump in the GOP race.

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The Miami mayor said in his statement that he had looked forward to sharing the story of Miami, Americas most successful city as he campaigned, and argued that his achievements leading Miami should be looked to as a model that can be replicated in every community in our great country.

I look forward to keeping in touch with the other Republican presidential candidates and doing what I can to make sure our party puts forward a strong nominee who can inspire and unify the country, renew Americans trust in our institutions and in each other, and win, he said.

This story was updated at 1:37 p.m.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Miami Mayor Francis Suarez (R) announced Tuesday hes suspending his campaign for the White House.

Running for President of the United States has been one of the greatest honors of my life, Suarez said in a release announcing the move, adding, It was a privilege to come so close to appearing on stage with the other candidates at last weeks first debate.

While I have decided to suspend my campaign for President, my commitment to making this a better nation for every American remains, Suarez added.

The end of his short-lived presidential bid comes a week after he failed to make the GOPs first primary debate stage in Milwaukee, falling short of the Republican National Committees (RNC) polling requirements to qualify for the event despite reporting that his campaign had hit the donor requirements.

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It was a privilege to come so close to appearing on stage with the other candidates at last weeks first debate, Suarez said in his statement.

Suarez earlier this month had suggested that candidates who didnt meet the RNC requirements should drop out of the primary.

The two-term Miami mayor launched his long-shot 2024 campaign in mid-June. Alongside former President Trump and Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, he became the third Floridian to jump in the GOP race.

Top Stories from The Hill

The Miami mayor said in his statement that he had looked forward to sharing the story of Miami, Americas most successful city as he campaigned, and argued that his achievements leading Miami should be looked to as a model that can be replicated in every community in our great country.

I look forward to keeping in touch with the other Republican presidential candidates and doing what I can to make sure our party puts forward a strong nominee who can inspire and unify the country, renew Americans trust in our institutions and in each other, and win, he said.

This story was updated at 1:37 p.m.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KFOR.com Oklahoma City.
In this photo provided by Egypt's presidency media office, Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah el-Sissi, right, greets Sudan's army chief General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan at the Presidential palace in el-Alamein city, Egypt, Tuesday, Aug. 29, 2023. (Egyptian Presidency Media Office via AP)

CAIRO (AP)  Sudans top military officer made a one-day visit to Egypt on Tuesday for talks with the Egyptian president, making his first trip abroad since his country plunged into a bitter conflict this year.

Gen. Abdel-Fattah Burhan, chairman of the ruling Sovereign Council, arrived in the Mediterranean city of el-Alamein and was received at the airport by President Abdel Fattah el-Sissi, the council said.

The two leaders discussed efforts to end the conflict in Sudan in a way that preserves the sovereignty, integrity of Sudanese State, an Egyptian statement said. The statement offered only generalities about the war.

Sudan plunged into chaos in mid-April when simmering tensions between the military, led by Burhan, and the powerful paramilitary Rapid Support Forces, commanded by Mohammed Hamdan Dagalo, exploded into open fighting in the capital, Khartoum, and elsewhere.

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The conflict has turned the capital into an urban battlefield, with the RSF controlling vast swaths of the city. The military command, where Burhan has purportedly been stationed since April, has been one of the epicenters of the conflict.

In televised comments to Egyptian media, Burhan accused the RSF of initiating the war to seize power in Sudan.

Were facing a destructive war initiated by rebel groups ... that committed heinous crimes that amount to war crimes, he said.

The military has sought to end the conflict and establish a transitional period until fair and free elections, he said.

Burhan was accompanied by acting Foreign Minister Ali al-Sadiq and Gen. Ahmed Ibrahim Mufadel, head of the General Intelligence Authority, and other military officers.

In a statement issued late Tuesday, al-Sadiq said that among several "urgent issues discussed was the flow of people and goods across the Sudanese-Egyptian border.

More than 4.6 million people have been displaced, according to the U.N. migration agency. Those include over 3.6 million who fled to safer areas inside Sudan and more than 1 million others who crossed into neighboring countries. More than 285,300 people have fled to Egypt.

There was no immediate comment from the RSF either on Burhan's trip or on his comments.

In a separate statement, the Sovereign Council also announced late Tuesday that Burhan had returned to Port Sudan, the country's largest coastal city controlled by the military. The general had departed from the Red Sea city to Egypt earlier in the day.

Burhan managed last week to leave Sudan's military headquarters in Khartoum. He visited military facilities in Khartoum's sister city of Omdurman and elsewhere north of the capital.

In months of fighting, neither side has managed to gain control of Khartoum or other key areas in the country. Last week, large explosions and plumes of black smoke could be seen above key areas of the capital, including near its airport.

Egypt has longstanding ties with the Sudanese army and its top generals. In July, el-Sissi hosted a meeting of Sudans neighbors and announced a plan for a cease-fire. A series of fragile truces, brokered by the U.S. and Saudi Arabia, have failed to hold.

Many residents of Khartoum live without water and electricity, and the countrys health care system has nearly collapsed.

The sprawling region of Darfur has seen some of the worst violence in the conflict, and the fighting there has morphed into ethnic clashes, with RSF and allied Arab militias targeting ethnic African communities.

Clashes intensified earlier this month in Nyala, the capital of South Darfur province, with both sides using heavy weapons in densely populated areas, according to activists and local media.

Shelling hit in Nyalas al-Sekka al-Hadeid neighborhood on Aug. 22, killing at least 39 civilians including women and children, activist Adam Mousa said.

Mousa, who is a media officer with the Darfur Bar Association, called for the International Criminal Court to investigate the attack and hold the perpetrators accountable.

Clashes were also reported in the provinces of South Kordofan and West Kordofan, according to the United Nations.

The fighting is estimated to have killed at least 4,000 people, according to the U.N. human rights office, though activists and doctors on the ground say the toll is likely far higher.

Martin Griffiths, the U.N.'s humanitarian chief, said Tuesday that the organization had added an additional $20 million from its emergency funding to help cover Sudan's growing humanitarian needs.

This year a total of $60 million from the fund has been allocated to Sudan, Griffith said on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter.

-

Associated Press writer Jack Jeffery contributed to this report from London
Suits creator Aaron Korsch has revealed that the royal family requested script changes after Meghan Markles relationship with Prince Harry came to light.

The now-Duchess of Sussex played attorney Rachel Zane in seven seasons of the popular legal drama before exiting in 2018 ahead of her royal wedding. She became romantically involved with the prince in 2016.

During a new interview with The Hollywood Reporter about Suits renewed popularity on Netflix, Korsch recalled a line that the royal family asked to be cut.

I remember one was a particular line of dialogue and, look, Ill just say what the line was, Korsch said.

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My wifes family, when they have a topic to discuss that might be sensitive, they use the word, poppycock. Lets say you wanted to do something that you knew your husband didnt want to do, but you wanted to at least discuss it, and in just discussing it, you wouldnt hold him to anything he said, youd be like, Its poppycock, he explained.

So, in the episode, Mike and Rachel [Markles character] were going to have a thing, and as a nod to my in-laws, we were going to have her say, My family would say poppycock. And the royal family did not want her saying the word. They didnt want to put the word poppycock in her mouth.

Meghan Markle and Patrick J Adams in Suits (USA Network)

I presume because they didnt want people cutting things together of her saying cock. So, we had to change it to bulls*** instead of poppycock, and I did not like it because Id told my in-laws that [poppycock] was going to be in the show. There was maybe one or two more things, but I cant remember.

Korsch added that he wasnt sure how or through what channels the royal family was receiving the scripts for his show. I was aware that they were reading them because I got the feedback, but I dont remember the process by which they got them, he said.

Earlier this month, it was revealed that Suits broke its own record for the most-watched acquired title, with 3.7 billion minutes watched from 3 July to 9 July across Netflix and Peacock, according to Nielsen data.

In a separate interview with the LA Times, Korsch credited the shows renewed success in part to Markles role in the royal family.

The series, which originally premiered on USA Network between 2011 and 2019 (and on Dave in the UK), follows an attorney named Mike (played by Patrick J Adams) who lands a job at a prestigious New York legal firm despite never attending law school. Markles character Zane is his love interest.

Suits returned to Netflix on 17 June  the day of King Charles IIIs birthday parade.
The creator of Suits says there was at least one word Britains royal family didnt want Meghan , the Duchess of Sussex, uttering when she was an actor on the show.

My wifes family, when they have a topic to discuss that might be sensitive, they use the word, poppycock, Aaron Korsh, who headed up the USA Network series, said in an interview with The Hollywood Reporter published Tuesday.

Lets say you wanted to do something that you knew your husband didnt want to do, but you wanted to at least discuss it, and in just discussing it, you wouldnt hold him to anything he said, youd be like, Its poppycock, Korsh explained.

But after Meghan  who played paralegal Rachel Zane on the legal drama that ran from 2011-19 and has since found renewed popularity on Netflix  began dating Prince Harry while the show was still in production, Korsh said word came down from Buckingham Palace that poppycock was a no-go.

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So, in the episode, [characters] Mike and Rachel were going to have a thing, and as a nod to my in-laws, we were going to have her say, My family would say poppycock. And the royal family did not want her saying the word. They didnt want to put the word poppycock in her mouth, Korsh told the publication.

I presume because they didnt want people cutting things together of her saying cock, he added.

But Korsh said the replacement for poppycock wasnt exactly a G-rated substitution: So, we had to change it to bullshit instead of poppycock, and I did not like it because Id told my in-laws that [poppycock] was going to be in the show.

While Korsh said he was initially irritated by the screenwriting snafu, his feelings eventually softened when he considered the reasoning behind the request: that trolls could have a field day creatively editing Meghans dialogue.

But listen, when they explained it that way, and Im pretty sure it got explained to me that it was about that [splicing potential], I had some sympathy because I wouldnt want somebody doing that to her either, Korsh said.

And the thing is, I didnt think anybody really would, but also I dont know. People are crazy.

Harry and Meghan tied the knot in 2018. In 2020, they stepped down as full-time working members of the royal family and moved to California.

Korsh said hes still unsure how the royal family was able to preview scripts before filming.

I dont know how they got em, he said. I was aware that they were reading them because I got the feedback, but I dont remember the process by which they got them.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Former adult film performer Ron Jeremy, shown in court in a file photo, was known to drug and sexually assault women in a bathroom at the Rainbow Bar & Grill on the Sunset Strip, according to a lawsuit filed by two unidentified women. (David McNew / Associated Press)

Two women have filed suit against the Rainbow Bar & Grill, claiming the famed West Hollywood watering hole routinely allowed porn actor Ron Jeremy to drug and sexually assault women in a private bathroom.

The women, both anonymous in the lawsuit, said they were forcibly touched by Jeremy in the middle of the bar on March 17, 2017, even though the bar was already aware of similar conduct in the past by Jeremy.

Jeremy, 70  whose legal name is Ronald Hyatt  was found incompetent to stand trial due to "severe dementia" this year after he was indicted on more than 30 counts of sexual assault stemming from allegations from 20 women. His alleged misconduct dated back to the 1990s.

Five of the 30 alleged sexual assaults took place at the Rainbow Bar, according to transcripts from the grand jury, the lawsuit said.

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Read more: Former porn star Ron Jeremy to be declared incompetent to stand trial for rape

"Ron Jeremy was known to sexually assault women at Rainbow Bar," wrote attorneys Nadine Khedry and Michelle Nabati in the lawsuit. "Rainbow Bar and Grill employees would give permission and would knowingly allow Ron Jeremy to use the employees' restroom to sexually assault female patrons."

The two women met Jeremy within 10 minutes of their arrival at the bar, the suit claims. He bought them a few drinks and offered to take pictures with them.

Photos from the bar's Yelp page show Jeremy with different women at the bar.

The women alleged that Jeremy tried to get them to kiss each other, but they declined. Then, the porn actor said, "Let me show you something, something cool," and put his hand under one of the women's pants and touched her genitals, according to the lawsuit.

Read more: Women break silence, tell stories of rape, groping by Ron Jeremy over two decades

He then moved the other woman's shirt to expose her breast and said, "You should be showing these off," the suit says.

When they said they needed to use the restroom, Jeremy offered the women "his own personal private bathroom" that they could use, according to the lawsuit. Jeremy followed the two women into the bathroom and "attempted to solicit pictures of them that appeared like they were giving Ron Jeremy [oral sex]."

One woman ran out, but Jeremy continued to forcibly touch the other woman's genitals in the bathroom over her objections, the suit claims.

The lawsuit, filed Aug. 21, alleges negligence against the Rainbow Bar and its parent company, Rockin' Horse Inc., and is seeking unspecified damages.

Read more: 'Wall Street Whiz Kid' charged with running financial scams out of L.A. bars and luxury apartments

The Rainbow Bar is a Sunset Strip establishment next to the Roxy Theatre known historically for its celebrity clientele. John Belushi ate his final meal there before he died at the Chateau Marmont in 1982, and Joe DiMaggio and Marilyn Monroe are said to have met on a blind date at the bar when it was still known as the Villa Nova.

A bar employee did not respond to a request for comment and declined to make a manager available to speak with The Times.

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
FILE - A supermoon passes behind the illuminated windows of a New York City skyscraper, Aug. 1, 2023. A rare blue supermoon could normal raise tides just as Hurricane Idalia takes aim at Floridas west coast, exacerbating flooding from the storm. The moon will be closest to the Earth on Wednesday night, Aug. 30, the same day Idalia is expected to make landfall in Florida. (AP Photo/J. David Ake, File)

A rare blue supermoon could raise tides above normal just as Hurricane Idalia lashes Floridas west coast, exacerbating flooding from the storm.

The moon was closest to the Earth on Wednesday, the same day Idalia made landfall as a high-end Category 3 hurricane near Keaton Beach in Florida's sparsely populated Big Bend region with maximum sustained winds near 125 mph (200 kph).

While a supermoon can make for a spectacular backdrop in photos of landmarks around the world, its intensified gravitational pull also makes tides higher.

I would say the timing is pretty bad for this one, said Brian Haines, the meteorologist in charge at the National Weather Service office in Charleston, South Carolina.

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Its expected to make tidal flooding worse not only in Florida, but in states such as Georgia and South Carolina, where Haines office has been warning residents that parts of Charleston could be under water by Wednesday night.

When the moon is full, the sun and the moon are pulling in the same direction, which has the effect of increasing tides above normal ranges, said Kerry Emanuel, professor emeritus of atmospheric science at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

The moon's gravitational pulls are even stronger when it's closer to Earth, so the tides are even higher.

The storm surge is often the greatest killer when hurricanes strike. The ocean water pouring onto land could be up to 15 feet (4.6 meters) along parts of Floridas west coast, the National Hurricane Center projected in its latest briefings Tuesday. Farther south, up to 7 feet (2.1 meters) of storm surge is expected in the Tampa Bay area.

Storm surge that can be taller than a person is a concern with any major hurricane. The tides and the influence of a supermoon can increase that somewhat.

"Theres a saying that you hide from the wind and run from the water, and hopefully people are heeding that advice, said Brian Tang, associate professor of atmospheric science at University at Albany in New York.

The part of northwest Florida where Idalia made landfall Wednesday is especially vulnerable to storm surge because of the region's geography. The continental shelf extends so far out from the coast and has a gradual slope, allowing the ocean to grow higher as hurricane winds drive the water onto land, Tang said. The shape of the coast in that region  known as Floridas Big Bend area  is also curved inward, which can focus the storm surge to make it even more dangerous, he said.

In South Carolina, theres concern that Idalias path will take it near the historic city of Charleston and the surrounding area known as the Low Country. That would add water to the high tide thats in the forecast, Haines said.

Wednesday evening looks really nasty for coastal flooding here, he said.

The weather service is forecasting an 8.2-foot (2.5 meter) tide in Charleston Wednesday evening, which could produce widespread flooding in downtown Charleston, Haines said. Even with a 7.5 foot tide (2.3 meters), some roads in the city flood and become impassible, he said.
Support for offshore wind development in New Jersey has dropped dramatically in recent years as projects near construction, according to polling released Monday.

Just over half of residents  around 54 percent  approve of offshore wind farm construction, according to the Monmouth University survey, a decrease from 76 percent in 2019 and 84 percent in 2011.

The state has approved three offshore wind projects, and the first, 15 miles off the coast of Atlantic City, is expected to begin construction this fall. Four additional projects have been proposed to state regulators.

The opinion change has almost entirely been partisan, according to the poll, with Democrats opinion mostly unchanged, while a majority of Republicans no longer support the concept.

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In 2019, 69 percent of Republican respondents supported offshore wind. That has now dropped to just 28 percent. Support from independents dropped from 77 percent to 52 percent, the survey found.

There was a time when wind energy was not really a political issue. It consistently received widespread bipartisan support for more than a decade, Monmouth University Polling Institute director Patrick Murray said. That is no longer the case.

Wind development opponents have pointed to potential negative impacts on Jersey Shore tourism and the local sealife as reasons to go against the projects. In the poll, 40 percent of respondents said it would likely hurt tourism and 45 percent said the projects are possibly or definitely responsible for a rise in whale beachings in the state.

At least 60 whales have died on the East Coast since preparations for the first project near Atlantic City began in December, but multiple studies from federal and state agencies have not found evidence linking the deaths with wind farms.

The wind turbine projects have been celebrated by the state government and the Biden administration as ways to encourage green energy production in well-developed areas.

Gov. Phil Murphy (D) called the federal approval of the first project this summer a pivotal inflection point not just for Orsted, but for New Jerseys nation-leading offshore wind industry as a whole.

There are two operating offshore wind farms in the U.S., one off the coast of Rhode Island and the other off the coast of Virginia. Both are operated by the same Danish firm, Orsted, which is constructing the Atlantic City project.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
STAUNTON  When Khaleesi Cuthriell went to live with Travis Brown and Candi Jo Royer in October 2020, the toddler had thick hair, was in good health and her cheeks still carried hints of baby fat.

"She was so beautiful," said Augusta County Commonwealth's Attorney Tim Martin during his opening statement Monday on the first day of Brown's murder trial.

But less than three months after moving in, evidence showed most of her pale body was already covered in bruises, scrapes and burns. Large swaths of hair were also missing from the 3-year-old. Video of Khaleesi taken Jan. 12, 2021, perhaps her last day alive, according to Martin, showed a frightened and confused child being verbally berated while made to stand naked in a dry bathtub in her own feces.

Khaleesi Cuthriell

Brown, 31, and Royer, 43, both face murder charges in the toddler's killing. Her body has never been found.

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About 30 witnesses are expected to be called for the week-long trial in Augusta County Circuit Court.

In 2020, Khaleesi's mother, Amanda Arey, was struggling with drug use. After violating her probation, she was headed back to jail and wanted to hand her daughter over to a family member. But Child Protective Services in Augusta County, a division of Shenandoah Valley Social Services, stepped in and blocked the move, testimony showed. Arey then opted for Royer, who has a young daughter with Brown who is slightly older than Khaleesi. The couple lived together on Cattle Scales Road in Augusta County.

Evidence showed that a police officer and a CPS employee took Khaleesi over to Royer and Brown's home just outside of Waynesboro in October 2020. At the time, Royer was on home electronic monitoring for an unspecified criminal offense. After the CPS employee left, she never went back to the residence on Cattle Scales Road, according to her testimony. Within weeks, Khaleesi was referring to Brown and Royer as "Mommy and Daddy," evidence showed.

While behind bars at Middle River Regional Jail, Arey testified Monday she spoke to Khaleesi about every two weeks by phone until contact became infrequent and then stopped altogether. "She was my whole world," Arey said. "My best friend."

Arey said she was given a number of excuses as to why she couldn't speak with Khaleesi when she contacted Brown and Royer, such as the pandemic or that Khaleesi was sick. But most times her calls went unanswered. Arey's relatives then provided Royer and Brown with a phone in a failed effort to facilitate further communications, according to testimony.

Arey said she wrote a letter to CPS in an effort to have them do a welfare check on Khaleesi, but said she never got a response from the government agency. "No one ever contacted me back," she testified.

In her last phone call from jail, which was played in court, Arey told Khaleesi, "I love you! I can't wait to see you. Mommy misses you."

By September 2021, Arey told a jail officer she'd lost contact with her child, and the Augusta County Sheriff's Office immediately started an investigation. That same month Brown and Royer were captured at a Knights Inn motel in South Greensburg, Pennsylvania, and Augusta County Sheriff Donald Smith announced Khaleesi was dead.

Martin said investigators, who served more than four dozen search warrants, combed through nearly 50,000 photos, videos and communications connected to Brown and Royer. In one video, Royer is filming the toddler when she's heard telling the somber child "nobody likes you, Khaleesi." In another video where Khaleesi is shown in the dry bathtub, her thin body covered in bruises while she stands in her own feces, Royer repeatedly screams at her. After Royer sent Brown the same video, hours later he responded, "What if our girl looked like that hahahahahah."

Photos showed Khaleesi had a battered and bloody face, and also injuries to her feet several weeks after arriving at the couple's home. In another photo, the toddler was shown slumped over a toilet.

Travis Brown.

Following his arrest in Pennsylvania, when asked if he knew where Khaleesi was, Brown told two Augusta County investigators that a CPS employee had picked her up in a state car, but said he didn't actually witness it. "It was such a relief," he said on the video that was played in court.

Brown made a number of outlandish claims during questioning, telling investigators the toddler "liked to be smacked" and that she acted like she was "possessed." Brown also claimed he woke up one night to grab a bite to eat from the kitchen when he spotted Khaleesi choking his daughter. He also claimed she was sexually aware, told investigators she rubbed her genitals, was prone to falling, and said the toddler was suicidal.

Monday was the first day of a scheduled five-day trial, and the defense has yet to call any witnesses. But during his opening remarks, defense attorney Dana Cormier made it clear who he feels killed Khaleesi.

"In October, Candi Royer will answer for what she has done," Cormier said, alluding to her scheduled trial.

Candi J. Royer

Though they were arrested together, texts between Brown and Royer showed some friction, Martin noted during his opening statement. In one exchange, Royer says to Brown, "You know what you did Travis." Brown responds, "Just know the gunshot your [sic] about to hear is a bullet going through my head."

In another text exchange, Royer tells Brown, "Unless you want a murder charge id [sic] shut up." Brown replies, "Trust me I took care of my back."

The trial will resume Tuesday at 9 a.m. in Augusta County Circuit Court. Brown is charged with aggravated murder, murder and child abuse. Five other previous charges went by the wayside minutes before the trial started.

A coaching legend, Paul Hatcher was also a devoted husband through difficult times

Staunton World War II veteran celebrates 100th birthday

Brad Zinn is the cops, courts and breaking news reporter at The News Leader. Have a news tip? Or something that needs investigating? You can email reporter Brad Zinn (he/him) at bzinn@newsleader.com. You can also follow him on Twitter.

This article originally appeared on Staunton News Leader: Travis Brown's murder trial in Augusta County is underway
A suspected DUI driver slammed into a motorcyclist and then crashed into a barrier in Seattle early Thursday morning, according to the Seattle Police Department.

Police said they got a call about an agitated driver, who appeared to be DUI, parked in a lane of traffic in South Lake Union.

An officer in the area said they saw a black Jeep Grand Cherokee speeding northbound on Dexter Avenue North and recklessly driving through several red lights.

The driver briefly stopped at the intersection of Dexter Avenue North and Mercer Street and police tried to run a record check on the Jeep but it sped off again heading northbound on Dexter Avenue North.

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At the intersection of Dexter Avenue North and Valley Street, the driver allegedly crashed into a motorcyclist who was stopped at the red light.

The motorcyclist was ejected from his motorcycle and landed on the ground nearby, said SPD.

Seattle Fire gave aid to the 41-year-old motorcyclist. Police said he had non-life-threatening injuries.

After allegedly running over the motorcyclist, the driver fled the scene and later crashed into the barrier that separates the northbound and southbound lanes on the Aurora highway.

When officers got there, they said the jeep was empty but they saw a man running back to the drivers side. When the man saw police he ran westbound on Valley Street.

Police yelled at the man to stop but he jumped over fences and tried to escape. The man was eventually taken into custody.

Police said the 27-year-old man showed signs he was under the influence. With further investigation, police found out the man had a suspended license and required an ignition interlock device to drive. The jeep did not have an ignition interlock device.

While searching the man, officers said they found drugs and saw empty alcohol bottles in the jeep. Police conducted a DUI investigation and later got a blood warrant for the suspect.

The man was arrested for DUI, hit and run, negligent driving, ignition interlock violation, and obstruction. He was booked into King County Jail.
TAIPEI (Reuters) -Taiwan's defence ministry warned on Tuesday of a possible "sharp increase" in military tensions after reporting renewed Chinese military activity including fighter jets crossing the sensitive median line of the Taiwan Strait.

Democratically governed Taiwan, which China claims as its own territory, has complained for three years of increased military pressure from Beijing, mostly in the form of China's air force flying near the island.

The ministry said that on Tuesday morning, it spotted 12 Chinese military aircraft in its air defence identification zone, of which seven crossed the median line - six J-10 fighters and a single drone.

Five Chinese ships also carried out "combat readiness patrols", the ministry said, without giving a location.

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The median line had for years served as an unofficial barrier between the two sides, until China's air force began regularly crossing it a year ago.

"The continued military harassment by the Communist military in the region may lead to a sharp increase in tensions and worsen regional security," the ministry said, calling on Beijing to "immediately stop such unilateral acts".

Maintaining the peaceful and stable status quo in the Taiwan Strait is critical to the security and prosperity of the Indo-Pacific region, and all parties, including Beijing, have a common responsibility to uphold it, the ministry added.

The latest Chinese mission happened the same day Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an, from Taiwan's main opposition party the Kuomintang which traditionally favours close relations with Beijing, arrived in Shanghai for annual city-to-city talks.

His office said the city government has many times reiterated that "the more difficult the environment is, the more the two sides should communicate".

"What the people of Taiwan want is peace and prosperity. This is the voice of the people and the firm position of the city government," it said.

Speaking to reporters before leaving for Shanghai, Chiang said the city forum was a good way to keep communication channels open and send a message of "peaceful values".

Taipei city councillors for Taiwan's governing Democratic Progressive Party issued a joint statement saying Chiang should "speak for the Taiwanese people" and demand an end to China's military activities.

(Reporting by Ben Blanchard; Editing by Muralikumar Anantharaman, Simon Cameron-Moore and Bernadette Baum)
Former Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson speaks to reporters in the spin room after a Republican presidential primary debate hosted by FOX News Channel Wednesday, Aug. 23, 2023, in Milwaukee. | Morry Gash, Associated Press

This article was first published in the On the Trail 2024 newsletter. Sign up to receive the newsletter in your inbox on Tuesday and Friday mornings.

Good morning and welcome to On the Trail 2024, the Deseret News campaign newsletter.

Im back from Milwaukee, where the first GOP presidential debate gave us a look at the field  minus the front-runner, former President Donald Trump. It was a big week for him, too (for other reasons).

Todays newsletter includes a first glance at a new poll showing who Utah Republican voters say they plan to vote for in the primary, as well as insights from former Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson  one of two candidates on last weeks debate stage who said he would not support Trump if the former president is convicted.

The Big Idea

Attack Trump, or ignore him?

Minutes after Wednesdays debate concluded, the Spin Room started flooding with people. In reality, the Spin Room wasnt a room at all  it was one roped-off end of the media filing center, which itself was the garage Milwaukee Bucks players park in during games (transformed with tables, TVs, carpet and drapes).

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Candidates send campaign surrogates to the Spin Room post-debate to spar with media  and, as the name suggests, to add their spin on why their candidate won the debate. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis sent someone from his PAC and a handful of politicians whove endorsed him. Vivek Ramaswamy came himself, alongside his wife, Apoorva. Mike Pence showed up, too.

But while journalists mobbed those three, Asa Hutchinson stood in the corner, chatting leisurely with two reporters. One asked if Trump was really ineligible to be elected president, as Hutchinson had said during the debate. The former Arkansas governor was blunt. The answer is yes, he said. But more importantly, will a secretary of state make that determination, and will the court make that determination?

Among Republican candidates for president, Hutchinson stands alone  or close to it. Hes one of the only challengers who has consistently attacked Trump. Some candidates have suggested theyd pardon Trump if elected. Others have called his criminal charges evidence of the weaponization of the justice system for political gain. And in Wednesdays debate, candidates were asked to raise their hands if they would support Trump as the partys nominee if he were convicted in a court of law.

Only Hutchinson kept his hand down. Chris Christie hesitantly lifted his, then said he was wagging his finger to say no. And even Pence  whod spent much of the debate arguing that Trump betrayed the Constitution on Jan. 6  lifted his hand.

I asked Hutchinson what he thought about his fellow candidates responses. I was surprised, he said. I thought more (candidates) would be clear that we need to move in a different direction. Point taken, though wildly understated  not only were Hutchinsons fellow candidates (save Christie and perhaps Pence) unwilling to criticize Trump, but the moderators were hesitant to even bring him up, saying theyd be moving on to another topic less than 10 minutes after the first Trump-related question erupted in fireworks between Christie and Ramaswamy and boos from the crowd.

The more time we spend doing this, the less time they can talk about issues you want to talk about, Bret Baier, one of the Fox News moderators, told the audience. So lets just get through this.

What Hutchinson seems to understand  and what the other candidates are conveniently ignoring  is that any path to the partys nomination cannot go around Trump, but through him. The former president leads most national polls by over 40 points, and a new poll in Utah  where Trump has historically faced a steeper climb than in other red states  shows him pulling away.

The new Deseret News/Hinckley Institute of Politics poll of registered Republican voters in Utah suggests that although Trumps lead in Utah is smaller than in other states, it is widening. Trump, at 27%, maintains an eight-point lead over his closest challenger (DeSantis, 19%). Thats an increase from a five-point lead in a July poll and a huge burst from an 11-point deficit last December.

No other candidates are polling in double-digits. Mike Pence sits at 9%, while Ramaswamy and former Rep. Liz Cheney  a frequent Trump critic who has not entered the race  are tied at 5%.

All of the eight candidates on that stage are running against Donald Trump, Hutchinson told me. So if youre running against Donald Trump, lets make your case effectively.

Hutchinson is trying. Maybe its a winning formula; maybe hes shooting himself in the leg. (Hes at 2% in Utah and about 0.7% nationally.) The strategic argument against attacking Trump this early  40-point lead or not  is the possibility of alienating Trumps loyal base of Republican voters, which make up a huge chunk of the GOP electorate. (Polling from the New York Times/Siena College tabs the MAGA base  Trumps do-or-die following  at 37% of the likely Republican electorate.)

But perhaps there is another way. A new op-ed in The Hill makes the case that fighting for the moderate middle, not the MAGA base, provides challengers the best chance of winning the nomination. In the Trump era, playing wait and see is a failed strategy, and someone needs to take on the challenge of attacking him and risk offending his base, Richard Protzmann writes. This would be unprecedented, but it is the only way forward.

Maybe so. Maybe not. But Hutchinson seems to be the one whos trying hardest. I made my case, he told me. I think its important to make the case with courage, because thats what persuades people.

The latest from Deseret News 2024 election coverage

Poll pulse

Todays must-see polls: one from Politico Magazine suggesting that Trumps legal woes might spell trouble, and another from the Des Moines Register analyzing how many Iowa caucus-goers are self-described MAGA Republicans.

The Politico Magazine/Ipsos poll shows that about half of American voters think Trump is guilty of his latest charges (dealing with efforts to overturn the 2020 election). That includes 53% of independent voters, while 27% of independents are undecided. And a majority of voters want a trial before the general election (which they will get for one of the federal cases, as the trial date was set Monday for March 4, 2024).

The Des Moines Register/NBC News/Mediacom Iowa Poll finds that nearly half of probable Iowa caucusgoers consider themselves to be MAGA Republicans (46%), while nearly a quarter  23%  describe themselves as anti-Trump.

What Im reading

What to watch

Prayers for Florida: A tropical storm is expected to hit Florida in the coming days, causing Ron DeSantis to declare a state of emergency for nearly half the state and potentially put his campaigning on pause. Hes already in Florida after a racially motivated shooting in Jacksonville over the weekend. Were hoping and praying for safety for Floridians. On the campaign front, how long could the tropical storm keep DeSantis grounded at home?

Anything you want to see from our post-debate coverage? As always, my inbox is open: onthetrail@deseretnews.com.

See you on the trail.

Samuel

Editors Note: The Deseret News is committed to covering issues of substance in the 2024 presidential race from its unique perspective and editorial values. Our team of political reporters will bring you in-depth coverage of the most relevant news and information to help you make an informed decision. Find our complete coverage of the election here.
Just shy of a year since Hurricane Ian battered Floridas Gulf Coast, killing at least 150 people and leaving billions of dollars in wreckage, Tampa Bay residents and northern neighbors are bracing for another momentous threat.

As of 11 p.m. Monday, the National Hurricane Center warned that Tropical Storm Idalia is likely to become a major hurricane  a Category 3 storm bearing winds of at least 111 mph, as well as life-threatening storm surge, experts said.

The storm, which was lingering near Cuba late Monday, is expected to make landfall early Wednesday morning along Floridas west coast.

A record-hot Gulf of Mexico combined with high tides due to a super moon make the region particularly vulnerable. While high wind speeds pose danger, powerful storm surge could bring walls of water onshore, wiping out coastal property and threatening residents who live in evacuation zones. More people died of drowning during Hurricane Ian than of any other cause.

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By Monday night, much of the Gulf Coast had been placed under hurricane and storm surge warnings. Models show Tampa Bay could see a dangerous storm surge of 4 to 7 feet atop high tides. Rapid intensification is expected before landfall, adding a layer of unpredictability to storm preparations. As for rain, officials said Tampa Bay could see 4 to 8 inches from Tuesday into Thursday, leading to some flash flooding.

As local authorities began issuing evacuation orders and closures amid Idalias uncertain path, the Tampa Bay region began its all-too-familiar dance to the soundtrack of the developing storm: the startling chime of emergency alerts, the click of hurricane shutters being fastened onto houses, the hushed whoosh of wind as the system moved closer to shore.

Preparations begin across the bay

At sand stations in Hillsborough, Pasco and Pinellas on Monday, lines formed as residents filled bags to line garage doors and storefronts. Throughout the day, grocery stores across the region began to see staples diminish.

At a Walmart on 34th Street in Saint Petersburg, a sign taped to the entrance asked customers to limit themselves to one case of water each. At a Costco across the bay, an employee wheeled a final pallet of bottled water out for those eagerly stocking up.

At a Publix in Pinellas, a woman in workout gear waited to pay for puffed rice snacks.

Am I missing something? she asked another patron, whose cart was stacked with crates of peanut butter, beans and soup.

At the mention of a hurricane, the womans eyes grew wide.

She backed out of line and headed toward the carts.

From Tampa to St. Petersburg to Largo to New Port Richey, residents fell into the rhythm of preparation. Patio umbrellas came down like Christmas trees in January. Potted plants and yard decor were rolled inside sheds. Chainsaws came out for last-minute surgery on weak branches. And along the beach strip in Pinellas Countys first evacuation zone, traffic vanished after residents made themselves scarce.

But just as routine as the preparatory measures some took were the hard conversations with family and friends who scoffed at warnings. Children called parents, urging them to book hotels far from flood zones. Lifelong Floridians who have weathered past storms unscathed got out their party games.

On one of Pinellas Countys beaches, bartender Biscuit Shannon, 51, checked in with her regulars  about a dozen customers ordering beers on draft.

I could care less about this storm. Doesnt faze me at all, said Shannon, who has worked at Shadracks Bar in Pass-a-Grille for 25 years. I never evacuate. I open my doors, blow up the air mattresses, fill the empty vodka bottles with water and have everyone ride it out here.

Evacuations ordered as officials fear surge

With memories of Hurricane Ian still fresh  the damage, the devastation, the deaths  officials on Monday took an urgent tone, including Gov. Ron DeSantis, who left the presidential campaign trail to return to the Sunshine State.

At the Pinellas County Emergency Operations Center, the governor warned residents to prepare.

This is going to be a powerful hurricane, and this is absolutely going to impact the state of Florida in many, many ways, DeSantis said.

The state has activated thousands of Florida National Guard members in response. In addition, certain vulnerable areas of Tampa Bay are under evacuation orders.

In Pasco County, residents in evacuation Zone A, as well as those living in manufactured and mobile homes or RVs, have been told to evacuate.

The same orders applied to residents in Pinellas County. And in Hillsborough, residents in coastal areas or mobile and manufactured homes have been ordered out.

Citrus, Hernando and Manatee counties also encouraged, and in some cases ordered, certain residents to leave.

Shelters are open in each of the counties.

To aid with the process, Pinellas and Hillsborough buses will be free through Tuesday, with additional rides available to emergency shelters. Routes are listed on county and city websites. Rides will end earlier if conditions become unsafe.

Additionally, tolls on roads along Floridas west coast will be suspended starting at 4 a.m. Tuesday.

Utility companies, including Duke Energy Florida and Tampa Electric Co., are preparing for Idalias aftermath. Theyre rounding up thousands of employees, including line technicians, tree-trimmers and damage assessors, to respond to outages.

Tampa Mayor Jane Castor, speaking Monday, called back to memories of last year, urging residents to stay diligent even as forecasts wobbled.

Our friends down south didnt have the time to prepare that they needed because of the unpredictability of these storms, Castor said at a news conference, pointing to the scramble residents of Southwest Florida faced when Ian moved east before landfall. So we are just asking everyone, please ensure you are ready.

In St. Petersburg, Mayor Ken Welch took a similar tone in recalling Ian after declaring the citys first state of emergency of 2023.

We witnessed the power and the unpredictability of that storm, Welch said. So now is the time to heed the warnings to prepare. And if ordered to evacuate, please respond.

In addition to emergency declarations and evacuation orders, a number of Tampa Bay school districts announced closures beginning Tuesday, including those in Hernando, Citrus, Pasco, Hillsborough and Pinellas. Most are scheduled to reopen on Thursday.

Local universities, including the University of South Florida, the University of Tampa and Saint Leo University, canceled classes for Tuesday and Wednesday. And at waterfront Eckerd College, some 600 college freshmen who had arrived on campus less than two weeks earlier were ordered to evacuate dorms.

Inland and upstate, Florida State University and the University of Florida are also shuttering.

At Tampa International Airport, travelers scrambled. A man trying to get to Denver worked diligently to rearrange his itinerary after the airport announced it would ground all commercial flights beginning Tuesday. He was without a car and worried about his ability to get supplies. St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport said it would also halt flights beginning at 3 p.m. Tuesday, with plans to reopen Wednesday afternoon.

Three Tampa Bay hospitals  HCA Florida Trinity West Hospital, HCA Florida West Tampa Hospital and HCA Florida Pasadena Hospital  have been evacuated and closed to protect patients from flooding and storm surge.

Its the second year in a row that HCA Pasadena has had to close because of the threat of a storm.

A look back to Ian and lessons learned

Hurricane Ians toll still looms large here.

At Paradise Grille on St. Pete Beach, cook Dominic Marone, 21, stared down an empty patio midday Monday, waiting for customers who didnt come.

Its been dead  very dead  all day, he said. He wasnt surprised.

He grew up in Florida, but last years hurricane was a turning point. I never realized how much danger we actually were in until I saw what happened to Fort Myers, he said.

We got lucky, he said.

His family had never evacuated before, but this year, they would be heading to his downtown St. Petersburg apartment  away from the water.

Ive got about 10 family members who live on the beach, and theyre all coming to bunk in with me tonight, he said.

Now, as Tropical Storm Idalia strengthens, officials are asking residents to keep last years destruction front of mind.

Evacuation to safe ground doesnt have to mean fleeing Florida. Whats critical, they said, is getting out of flood zones.

Anyone who receives an evacuation order needs to make plans to go to a safe area now, DeSantis said in a statement Monday night. You do not need to leave the state  travel tens of miles, not hundreds of miles.

Division of Emergency Management Director Kevin Guthrie said some parts of the state could see 8 to 12 feet of storm surge.

He pointed to videos of buildings being swept away during Hurricane Ian in areas where the surge was 10 to 12 feet.

It is a classic example of what is going to happen with the storm surge across the state of Florida, Guthrie said.

Though it was not yet clear which part of the coast would take a direct hit, the surge, he said, could be catastrophic.

This story includes reporting from Times staffers including Lane DeGregory, Chris ODonnell, Bernadette Berdychowski, Emily Mahoney, Olivia George, Michaela Mulligan, Ian Hodgson, Colleen Wright and Zachary T. Sampson.
Dawn Strait arrived at Fivay High School in Hudson about an hour after Pasco County opened its hurricane evacuation shelters on Tuesday.

Living in a Port Richey trailer park on the west side of U.S. 19, Strait said she didnt want to wait and see what Hurricane Idalia might bring her way.

So she packed up her car with her suitcase, air mattress, snacks and her mini Australian shepherd, Gunner, and headed someplace she knew to offer safe haven.

We were here last year and they took good care of us, Strait said, as she loaded a cart with her belongings to take inside. All my neighbors are evacuating. It does flood in there in the streets when we have a lot of rain.

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Officials in Hillsborough, Pasco and Pinellas counties encouraged all residents in coastal and low-lying areas to leave their homes as the storm intensified in the Gulf of Mexico and headed toward Floridas west coast. They ordered mandatory evacuations and opened several shelters in schools, which canceled classes to host people fleeing the storm.

Early turnout at the sites, which had space for thousands, was sparse Tuesday morning.

About 250 people had filtered into shelters by early afternoon in Hillsborough County, where officials said they have room for 20,000 people. By that time, Pinellas shelters had welcomed about 1,300 evacuees and Pasco about 100, along with a dozen pets.

The current census is a rather low number, said Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister, but thats good because I think people are taking advantage of other places to go versus the last resort and go to a shelter.

Officials predicted the pace might pick up later Tuesday, as the first bands of rain and wind arrive. A year ago, some of the same locations welcomed hundreds of residents escaping Hurricane Ian.

If Idalias track shifts farther away from Tampa Bay, they said, the numbers might not increase too much.

In the meantime, they worked to ensure that the few who were showing up were treated well.

Jeffrey Huggins greeted a mother entering Pizzo K-8 School, one of 10 shelters in Hillsborough County. Welcome back, he said.

It could be under better circumstances, he said, but Huggins, who works for the countys library system and has managed shelters through three major storms, enjoyed seeing familiar faces.

Over the course of a few days, you get to know people, he said.

Shelters are last resorts, he said, adding that they are not a resort.

But for a few days, the 5-by-4-foot space each person is allotted and cafeteria meals could be a lifeline. The shelter doesnt turn anyone away, he said.

Theres a really neat human aspect to doing all this, Huggins said. We go about living our day-to-day lives and things happen, political or whatever, people get annoyed. But people kind of pull together for this.

No matter where they come from.

Star Kinnee, 21, showed up at Middleton High in Tampa just four days after arriving from California.

I left California right after there was a storm, she said. I came here, theres a storm. I feel like its following me.

Fivay High Principal Erik Hermansen, who oversaw the schools shelter, agreed that communities can set aside their differences in times of need. In addition to educating children, he noted, the schools have a broader role that has included sheltering during storms and providing meals during the pandemic.

County and school district workers who could be taking care of personal business volunteered to staff the shelters. And over the years of doing so, theyve learned how to keep things running smoothly for those who need the services.

At Fivay, that has meant things such as keeping the television tuned to the news and keeping the coffee flowing day and night.

I want to make sure theyre taken care of, Hermansen said of the evacuees. Thats what this is all about.

Justin McDonough, who lives in the Jasmine Estates community of Pasco, said he appreciated the effort.

Staying in his flood-prone neighborhood was not an option, McDonough said. When you hear 100 mph winds, thats nothing to take lightly. Youve got to get into a solid structure.

The shelters provide that safety to people who might have nowhere else to go, he said. Its a godsend.

Times Staff Writer C.T. Bowen contributed to this report.

  

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A teacher is accused of being intoxicated at school with drugs and alcohol on hand, police in Alabama say.

Melissa Ann Harris, 49, was arrested Monday, Aug. 28, and charged with public intoxication, Fort Payne police said in a news release.

Harris also faces charges of possession of alcohol on school grounds and possession of a controlled substance after she was found with prescription medication that didnt belong to her, according to police.

Officers responded after Fort Payne City Schools officials suspected a teacher was buzzed on the job.

Authorities did not say where the incident occurred, but multiple outlets, including WAFF, reported that officers responded to Fort Payne Middle School.

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At no time were any students in danger, Brian Jett, superintendent Fort Payne City Schools, told McClatchy News in a statement. We have no further comment pending the current internal and criminal investigations.

Police and the DeKalb County District Attorneys Office are investigating.

The incident comes nearly two weeks after a third-grade teacher in Oklahoma was arrested after she was accused of arriving at work drunk on wine on the first day of school, McClatchy News reported.

The educator acknowledged drinking half a box of wine the night before classes and drinking more on the way to work.

Authorities didnt release additional details about the Alabama incident, and its unclear if Harris is still employed.

Fort Payne is about 95 miles northeast of Birmingham.

If you or a loved one shows signs of substance use disorder, you can seek help by calling the national hotline at 1-800-662-4357 or find treatment using SAMHSA's online locator.

Woman with beer and knife opens strangers car and tries to take baby, Utah cops say

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Third-grade teacher comes to first day of school drunk on boxed wine, Oklahoma cops say
The city of Sacramento is poised to give City Manager Howard Chan a 10-week vacation compensation package that is worth more money than the median income of a family in Sacramento County.

Council members are scheduled to amend Chans contract Tuesday night in a move that will send the wrong message to fellow staff and the public. All the other top city bureaucratic positions are up for 5% salary increases, but in Chans case, his base pay would increase to $420,664.33. His increase would be retroactive to Feb. 11  yet another Valentine.

Opinion

Why single out Chan? His existing compensation package already makes him the highest-paid city manager in California, and he already received a raise last year that bumped him from $372,700 to $400,652. Its true that Chan is considered to be good at his job, and he is a favorite of Sacramentos business community.

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But this new bump would represent a 60% pay increase since he became city manager just six years ago.

For Chan, the compensation adjustment goes a significant step further. As the proposal states: In addition to the new hourly rates, the city manager will receive an additional 240 hours of leave time.

As previously reported, Chans contract allows him to cash out his unused leave time. If Chan decides that his regular four weeks of vacation is just fine and cashes out the extra six weeks of leave, he would receive another $48,538.19 in pay. If he decides to take no vacation at all, thats another $80,896.98.

Chans annual pay package totals more than half a million dollars.

No city council that considers public service its highest priority would approve that kind of contract. The Sacramento City Council should reject this proposal.

Fiscal times are getting tougher at city hall. The days of receiving extra federal aid from the COVID era are over. Years of surpluses in state budgets are in the rear-view mirror, with projections of deficits going forward. The city is projected to dip into its own general fund to pay its share of the Golden 1 Center construction in the coming years.

Earlier this month, the Sacramento City Council delegated to Chan the responsibility of identifying and establishing managed safe ground encampments for Sacramentos growing homeless population. Mayor Darrell Steinberg said at the Aug. 1 council meeting that he expects some or all of these sites to be self-governed. That means that there will be no city-paid person at any given site around the clock.

If the public complains, it would be ironic if Chan suggested that his budget is limited and that staffing is too expensive  because Chan himself is too expensive.

The council just spent $26 million to settle a lawsuit with developer Paul Petrovich after courts repeatedly ruled that the council did not give Petrovich a fair hearing on his proposal to add a gas station to his retail center in the redeveloped Curtis Park rail yards. The verdict laid bare the fact that the council can have a fairness problem. The same could be said for Chans contract enhancements paid for with public money.

Sacramento voters have repeatedly turned down proposals over the years to move to a strong mayor form of governance that allows the top elected official to hire the city manager and truly manage the city. A strong-manager form of leadership does not require nearly three months of paid leave (once those 13 paid holiday days are included). It requires strong judgment. This isnt it, either from Chan or the council.
There is no doubt about it: Tenet is a fairly complex film.

Christopher Nolans 11th feature is a head-spinner like no other, following a man who must prevent a Russian oligarch from world destruction.

The stakes are higher than ever in Tenet, a film which throws not only the characters but the viewer on a journey through time.

We suggest you stop reading if you havent seen Tenet. The below is just for those who need anything clearing up after watching the film, which has been made available to stream on Netflix.

Here is a comprehensive rundown of all the confusing events in the film  from the highway sequence to who was inverted and when (find an explanation on what time inversion actually is here).

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Hopefully, after youve read the entirety of our plot explanation, youll have considerably fewer unanswered questions.

*Major spoilers for Tenet follow  do not watch if you havent seen Tenet*

Its worth nothing that the volatile Andrei Sator (Kenneth Branagh) has continually travelled back from the future armed with knowledge that will help him gather the weapons he needs to trigger something known as the algorithm. This will reverse the entropy of the world so that the future ceases to exist. He has done this after uncovering a machine known as the turnstiles  move through it one way, you will move backwards; go back through, and youll move forward again  but from the point of time youve travelled back to.

The Protagonist (John David Washington) is hired to try and stop this Sator from executing his plan. When the film starts, Sator  after having an argument with his wife Kat (Elizabeth Debicki) on his yacht  leaves and goes to the bombing of the Opera House. We dont know he is involved at this point, but discover it when Sir Michael Crosby (Sir Michael Caine) tells The Protagonist.

From that point, Sator is experiencing time in a linear fashion right up until he drags Kat into the container in Tallinn following the highway sequence. The Sator we see with an oxygen mask on  when he holds a gun to Kats head and demands that The Protagonist (John David Washington) hands over the plutonium  is the one who The Protagonist is about to see go through the turnstile to invert. There are momentarily two Sators existing at once in order to discover information he does not yet know. This is known as a Temporal Pincer Movement, which you can read up on here.

Present Sator storms into the red container and asks The Protagonist where the plutonium is  he is trying to find out so he can reclaim it once he inverts (we saw him successfully do this a few scenes before, so we know it will happen). The Protagonist is confused as he just did this after Sator shot Kat in the stomach. That was future Sator, however  the Sator he is with is in the present and is yet to do this. Once he inverts, the timelines merge and he learns the information, shoots the non-inverted Kat with an inverted bullet, and heads out to the highway to get the plutonium. He experiences the highway sequence we had just seen through the Protagonists point of view. Sator is the only one inverted at this stage.

John David Washington and Robert Pattinson in Tenet (Warner Bros Pictures)

Kat is in serious danger of dying from the inverted bullet wound. The Protagonist believes he can save her by inverting and taking her back one week to the turnstile he found in Oslo  in the freeport where he fought the guard in protective gear during the plane crash decoy. He travels through with Neil (Robert Pattinson), Kat and a team of special operatives led by Ives (Aaron Taylor-Johnson). The plan is to lie low in a shipping container until they arrive in Oslo. Once there, they will move through the turnstiles so they can revert back to moving forward in time from the week before (meaning two of each character will exist in the same time period for the following week until they exceed the events of them inverting in Tallinn).

After going through, The Protagonist believes he can chase after Sator on the highway and reclaim the plutonium, but Neil tells him its no use: whatever happened happened. He doesnt listen and takes chase anyway, but soon realises he was behind the wheel of the car that collided with the car that past Neil was driving; he had been a passenger in it. He realises there was nothing he could have done  Sator was always destined to get his hands on the plutonium. After the car explodes, he is thrown back to the shipping dock hes on with Neil and Kat (theres a scientific reason for this likened to a piss in the wind). It wasnt a complete loss, though  he managed to bug the plutonium case acquired by future Sator, now moving backwards, and was able to record audio playing out over the car radio detailing Sators destructive plans (this is the audio The Protagonist and Neil had heard in reverse when moving forward in time scenes before). He is also spotted by Sator, who now knows hes on his heels.

They arrive in Oslo a week earlier, right at the time of the plane crash decoy, now playing in reverse. The inverted explosion sends The Protagonist, who is wearing protective gear, directly into a fight with his past self  the same fight we saw him have earlier: he was fighting his future self. The fight ends when he runs through the turnstile and comes out the other side straight into a run-in with Neil from the past. They werent fighting two different people  they were both a future version of The Protagonist, one moving back in time and then one moving forward. As we saw before, past Neil takes chases and pulls off the Protagonists headgear. Seeing its a future version of him, he prevents The Protagonist from shooting himself. Future-Neil then takes future Kat through the same turnstile so that these three characters can move forward again. They are existing in their own past, which is now their present.

The Protagonist and the Neil we first meet in the film now exist in a loop that will see them experience all of the above again.

Tenet is available to stream on Netflix (Melinda Sue Gordon/Warner Bros)

The Protagonist meets up with arms dealer Priya (Dimple Kapadia) two days before he will inadvertently hand the plutonium over to an inverted Sator. Priya reveals that she has acquired her own turnstile and The Protagonist devises a plan in which he, Neil and Kat travel back to Kats Vietnam holiday with Sator  the one they were on before the events of the film  in the belief that Sator is travelling backwards to this point in time. Kat explains that he is terminally ill and is most likely planning to kill himself here. Once he dies, an algorithm hes concocted will be detonated reversing the entropy of the world; in other words, the future will cease to exist. Once they arrive at this point in the past, they will go through the turnstile so that they are moving forwards again. Kat will arrive at the yacht and, pretending to be the past version of herself, will kill Sator after The Protagonist and Neil have deactivated the algorithm.

To do this, Ives leads a Temporal Pincer Movement in which a blue team  including Neil  inverts and travels back one hour to learn of the events that are about to happen (because for them, it would have already happened) so they can, in turn, brief the red team who are moving forwards in time. This team includes Ives and The Protagonist. They then have 10 minutes to work in tandem to prevent future Sators algorithm from activating: the blue team moving backwards, the red team forwards AKA ten minutes forward and backwards, which gives the film its name (TENET).

Midway through, inverted Neil prematurely goes back through the turnstile to help the red team. Once the mission is complete, though, he has to invert back again in order to catch the blue team on their next loop, so he can revert back to moving forwards in time at the correct stage. This version of the character will not see The Protagonist again. However, beyond the events of the film, The Protagonist  armed with the knowledge of his experiences  will invert at an unknown stage in the future to hire past Neil before they ever meet (in The Protagonists eyes). This is how the events of the film will then take place  the whole film is essentially a giant Temporal Pincer Movement.

(Warner Bros)

Past Neil will know about these events before he meets The Protagonist  which is why he knows more than hes letting on throughout, and also why Neil says he knows The Protagonist never drinks on the job when they first meet. It is hinted that past Neil and the future Protagonist enjoy carrying out plenty of missions together and have a beautiful friendship long after the events of the film, Their final scene, though, is the last time he will meet Neil in a linear timeline.

After this, The Protagonist ties up loose ends by killing Priya, who wants to kill Kat, who is alive and well in the future despite the fact that she would have died in the past. Inverting is what saved her. After Kat kills Sator on the yacht, she will lie low until her past self is shot and inverted (thus closing that loop) so that she can continue being a parent to her son. The phone call we see her make at the beginning of the film  to say shes being watched  was actually set in the future. She is calling the present day version of The Protagonist, who is looking out for her from afar.

He then devises the Tenet mission that his past self will go on to be signed up to  with no knowledge that his future self is behind it.
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN)  After the special session on public safety ended in chaos, lawmakers are reacting to the altercation between lawmakers and the session at large.

Following a contentious adjournment, House Speaker Cameron Sexton and Rep. Justin Pearson were involved in a skirmish on the floor of the House. Pearson and Sexton got in each others faces as Sexton was leaving the House floor, and the two were separated by lawmakers.

RELATED: Special session ends in chaos on TN House floor

After the session, Pearson and Rep. Justin Jones took to the Capitol rotunda to join protestors, saying the session achieved nothing. Pearson also took the time to recount the situation.

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I was pushed by Cameron Sexton and by other folks on his team, and then he started to yell and scream as though we had done something, he told the crowd. Rep. Jones was pushed by Rep. Cepicky as well, because we were holding signs and demanding that we protect kids and not guns. This is where we are.

Pearson said the authoritarian actions of the House, like banning all signs, were devolving into physical violence.

They are hurting our communities. William Lamberth, he started to scream. He wouldnt let me walk past him, either, Pearson added. There is something going on in this institution that is allowing this bad behavior to persist. It is racism and white supremacy.

VIDEO | Justin Jones bangs gavel during session ending

Pearson called for Sexton to resign, as well as these other leaders that allow for that behavior to happen and persist.

These folks who support white supremacy and patriarchy to the detriment of all of our health and all of our children, they have to go, he said.

Pearson said he would be filing an ethics complaint against Sexton for the incident.

Sexton also spoke with media following the events, along with Republican leadership. During a press conference, Sexton said his memory of the situation was he was being led along by his security when he was corralled by Democratic lawmakers.

My security put their hand on my back, which knocked me forward, and I thinkI cant rememberthere was a photographer to my left, so we moved right, and that then at that point we keep walking and then Rep. Pearson comes in and pops me from the right side, the Speaker said of the start of the skirmish between him and the freshman legislator.

VIDEO | Chaotic ending to TN special session on House floor

House Majority Leader William Lamberth said he was right there when things happened and stepped in with other lawmakers to prevent anything else from happening.

Whatever happened up to that point, Rep. Pearson became very irate and angry. At that junction circled around, and other members, myself and others, just kind of blocked folks off, he said. Theres no reason for any of that. But theres no doubt in my mind he was very angry and aggressive toward the Speaker specifically. Theres just no need in that. We can handle issues in a passionate way without getting physical or up in each others face or yelling and screaming at each other. Weve always done that in an orderly society, and specifically within the legislature. Ive been very passionate on lots of issues. Im very disappointed that we didnt get more done in this special session.

Lamberth said the lawmakers were not convened for a bunch of yelling and screaming and folks getting up in each others faces.

Its passionate issues, but we can do that in a professional way, I think, he said.

House Majority Caucus Chairman Jeremy Faison (RCosby), who a week ago brought an ostrich egg to the Senate chamber, said the situation lacked real maturity, saying the actions were beneath the level of a representative.

It lacks real maturity to go get in somebodys personal space, and the fact that they would go and surround the Speaker and get in their personal space, try to get in their face when emotions are already high, thats a prescription for disaster. That shouldve never been.

Faison also took issue with Jones for going up to the Speakers podium and banging the gavel after the confrontation with Sexton and Pearson.

Its very obvious that they are wanting to not be statesmen, not wanting to make sure the will of the people are done, he said. Theyre wanting to make sure that theyre seen. Theyre wanting to put the attention on themselves and take it away from everything else and what weve done today.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WREG.com.
Tennessee state Rep. Justin Jones (D) walks out of the House chamber in Nashville, Tennessee.

Tennessee state Rep. Justin Jones (D) walks out of the House chamber in Nashville, Tennessee.

Tennessee state Rep. Justin Jones (D)  one of the two Black lawmakers who were expelled by their colleagues in an extraordinary step earlier this year, and who later reclaimed their seats  was silenced Monday during a special session on public safety in the state House.

Members of the chamber voted 70-20 to ban Jones from speaking for the rest of the day, saying hed spoken off-topic twice. During a debate about police officers in schools, Jones called for more mental health professionals and counselors in schools and higher pay for teachers. House Speaker Cameron Sexton (R) said Jones broke the rules and was out of order.

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House Democrats walked out of the chamber in solidarity with Jones during the vote to silence him.

All I was doing was focusing on lifting up the voice of Davidson County, of my district, who say we need mental health professionals, counselors, we need commonsense gun laws, Jones told reporters Monday.

The special session was called by Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee (R) in response to the mass shooting at the Covenant School in Nashville earlier this year that left three children and three adults dead.

Covenant parents have been watching the special session all week. When 70 Republicans voted to silence Jones, the gallery erupted with shouts of Fascists and Racists. Members of the public in the gallery were then ordered to leave the chamber.

What were seeing is this misapplication, this abuse of rules under the leadership of Speaker Cameron Sexton, Jones said in a video posted on X, formerly known as Twitter. Whats happening is not democratic. It is authoritarianism. Its very troubling what were witnessing here.

In April, Jones came to national prominence as a member of the so-called Tennessee Three, alongside fellow state Democratic Reps. Justin Pearson and Gloria Johnson. Jones and Pearson, who are Black, were expelled from the House after they demonstrated alongside gun control protesters in the wake of the Covenant School shooting. Johnson, who is white and who also joined the protesters, missed expulsion by one vote.

Last week, protesters were kicked out of a special session hearing at the Tennessee House after they silently held up signs indicating support for gun reform. Others, including mothers of Covenant students, were also removed for clapping and cheering.

On Tuesday, Jones posted on X that if he speaks off-topic again, he will be silenced for three days. Sexton did not immediately respond to HuffPosts request for comment.

Related...
Justin Jones raises his fist to supporters outside the House chamber during a special session of the state legislature on public safety Monday, on 28 August, 2023 (Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved)

History is repeating itself in Tennessee.

In April, state representative Justin Jones, an outspoken young Democrat from Nashville, was expelled from the legislature for speaking out with two fellow lawmakers alongside protesters against the Republican majoritys inaction on gun violence, following a devastating school shooting in March where three children were killed at a Christian elementary school.

This month, Mr Jones, along with fellow expelled colleague Rep Justin Pearson, won special elections and were sent back to the Tennessee House, right in time for a special session called to address public safety. The process began again.

On Monday, Mr Jones expressed his doubts about a bill under consideration that would put armed police officers in public schools, even on campuses which hadnt adopted such measures by choice.

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As The Independent has reported, such school resource officers (SRO) have been shown by research to have little impact on detering mass shootings, and actually fuel racial disparities in which students are punished.

SROs have not been shown to reduce instances of mass shootings, Mr Jones said, arguing, We need to pay our teachers better, we dont need more police in our schools.

Representative Jones, you are off the bill again, fired back House Speaker Cameron Sexton, one of the leaders of the original process to expel the so-called Tennessee Three.

The Republican leader declared Mr Jones out of order and in violation of new house leaders, triggering a vote on whether to silence the Democrat from further legislative debate. The move passed 70-20 on party lines.

Mr Jones railed against the decision, calling it another instance of the House leadership focusing on bare-knuckle politics instead of making Tennessee safety.

Their priorities are out of order, he wrote on X, the social media platform previously known as Twitter, after the vote. Their leadership is out of order. The House is out of order.

There were other parallels as well.

Much like the first time Mr Jones and his allies spoke out, the Tennessee House ended its special session on Tuesday without making any major changes to firearms laws in the state, leaving in place the same status quo that prompted the Tennessee Three to take to the House floor and chant alongside protesters assembled in the galleries back in April.

Now, as then, survivors of the March Covenant shooting left the process feeling unheard.

"We held a special session following the extraordinary tragedy of a mass shooting that took place at the Covenant School, and we took no meaningful action," Shoop Neumann, the mother of a child who survived the shooting, told The Nashville Tennessean. The divisiveness we have all witnessed makes us long for a unified community. We need legislators on both sides of the aisle to be able to have respectful, thoughtful debate regarding potential solutions to end gun violence."

As the paper reported, the session ended with little major change, with legislators only agreeing to modest funding increases for state mental health workers and gun safety PSAs.

Anti-gun violence protesters have been evicted multiple times from the legislative viewing gallery as lawmakers fail to pass meaningful gun reform after the Covenant shooting (REUTERS)

Much like the first Tennessee Three episode, the special session also saw Republican lawmakers order state capitol police officers to clear out the Houses viewing gallery, after crowds began chanting fascists and racists when Rep Jones was silenced.

The second silencing vote caps off whats been an unprecedented session of the Tennessee legislature.

Earlier this year, observers of state politics said they had never seen legislators act so aggressively towards colleagues for speaking out.

Carrie Russell, a lecturer in political science and expert on Southern politics at Nashvilles Vanderbilt University, told The Independent the original silencing votes were an exercise of power solely for powers sake with a ruthlessness akin to a pack of dogs refusing to stop biting.

She noted that in the rare instances anyone is removed from office in Tennessee or any other state, its usually after a legislator has been convicted of a serious crime.

No laws  local, state or federal  were broken here, she said of the original protest where three Democratic lawmakers  Reps Justin Jones, Gloria Johnson, and Justin Pearson  spoke from the House floor and joined in chants with protesters who had entered the capitol building.

They were well within their constitutional rights to speak out during the House recess, per the state and federal constitution.

We will work towards ensuring every one of those seats is replaced by someone who has a true desire to listen to their constituents over firearm association lobbyists, she added. We will be back in January, Ms Neumann said in her interview with The Tennessean.

Mr Jones had an even more pointed message after the vote.

Its time for a new Speaker, he wrote on X.
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WATE)  The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation records show millions of dollars are lost every year to romance scams. An 80-year-old Knoxville widow recently became the latest such victim.

Sharon, a widow for 27 years, found a handsome stranger asking to be her friend on Facebook during those bleak months of the pandemic in 2020. She accepted.

His name was David J. Armstrong. His wife was in a car accident. He had it down verbatim, the whole story, Sharon, who chose not to share her last name, explained to Nexstars WATE.

Armstrong built up trust with Sharon, told her he was working on an oil rig off the coast of England, and was attracted to her.

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Fight over McDonalds sauce led to death of teenager in DC, police say

He would email me, or text me, a nice long love letter every night: Are you in bed darling? I hope you are comfortable. Did you sleep well? He sent me a rose once. Im just going deeper and deeper into this, said Sharon.

Through messages, Armstrong claimed things had gone wrong on the oil rig. He asked her to send him money so they could be together soon.

Tennessee enacted a law in 2017, known as the PAUSE Law, which gives financial institutions the authority to delay or refuse transactions that may exploit an older or vulnerable adult.

If every bank and financial institution in this state would use that law then we would be able to protect people better, said Aaron Bradley, the Director of East Tennessees Area Agency on Aging.

Sharons primary bank did exactly that when she asked for a big cashiers check.

They started to do it. The teller said, I need to make a call. I guess they called the main bank. They said, Its a scam, were not going to do it,' said Sharon.

That didnt deter Sharon, who went to another bank.

And they did it, freely. They did it twice for me. No problem whatsoever, said Sharon.

She was unaware of the hoax, while others were suspicious.

College student fatally shot while trying to enter wrong home in South Carolina: police

My friends told me, my kids told me, said Sharon. My heart told me, he really did love me. I kept saying, how do you know you love me when you havent even met me?'

According to Sharon, Armstrong responded, I can tell by the way you talk, I can tell by your pictures. She fell for it.

Over six months, Sharon sent close to $150,000 to Armstrong.

I dont know why I didnt believe anybody. I was so cocksure he was going to pay it back. I mean, he loved me for crying out loud. Go figure, said Sharon.

We all could fall prey to this. These con artists are professionals, they are professionals, said Bradley, adding that banks are not using the PAUSE Law as much as they should. If they did, folks would not lose their money. They may be angry, but they will still have their money in the bank.

The Federal Trade Commission says the most common fake occupation given by romance scammers is that of someone in the military or an offshore oil rig worker. In addition, the sad story Sharon was given is the most repeated. The so-called boyfriend is a widower, who is stuck on the rig, or is trying to get off the military base, but needs money to do so. Once the scammers successfully receive the first payment, they dont give up.

Sharon has a direct warning for others.

No, no, dont do it. Whatever, no matter what you think bottom line, dont do it, because you will lose every dime you send. Every dime, said Sharon.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WesternSlopeNow.com.
As Floridas gulf coast continues to hunker down ahead of Hurricane Idalias arrival Wednesday morning as an extremely dangerous storm, those on the states Atlantic coast are also being warned to keep an eye on the tropical system this weekend.

Thats because the Global Forecasting System, a U.S. federal hurricane projection model, predicts the remnants of Hurricane Idalia could circle back and strike Florida a second time early next week.

If Idalia stays true to the GFS forecast, itd strike Floridas big bend region on Wednesday morning before traversing across North Floridawhere flash flooding, heavy rainfall, and winds in excess of 100 mph are forecastedand eventually through Georgia and South Carolina, back into the Atlantic.

From there, federal spaghetti models forecast Idalia could take a southwest turn and head back toward Floridas Atlantic coast for a second landfall in the Sunshine State sometime Mondayalbeit after losing much of its original power.

The bizarre scenario is far from a certainty, with outside forecasting modelslike the more-trusted European model ECMWFpredicting a different path for Idalia entirely. The looping phenomena of a tropical system is rare, but not unprecedented.

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In 2004, Hurricane Ivan made landfall in Alabamaclipping the Florida panhandleas a major Category 3 hurricane before it traversed across the American South and into the Atlantic Ocean, looping back to make a second landfall with Florida as an extratropical cyclone. From there, it eventually re-entered the Gulf of Mexico and became a tropical storm that delivered heavy rain to Louisiana and Texas more than a week after its initial landfall.

Ivan killed 25 Americans and inflicted a whopping $20.5 billion in damagesinflated by the approximately 120 tornadoes the storm spawned.

Experts fear Idalia, which was upgraded to a Category 2 hurricane Tuesday evening, could be equally dangerous. Thats especially true for Floridas rural big bend region that is particularly vulnerable to flooding because of its very shallow coastal shelf, hurricane researcher Phil Klotzbach told The Daily Beast in an email Tuesday.

A model showing the depth of Floridas coastal shelves. Red is considered the most shallow and purple the deepest. National Hurricane Center

Southern Floridas gulf coast has an extremely shallow coastal shelf, which Klotzbach says acts like a ramp for the storm surgeoften the deadliest result of a tropical system. The gulfs shallow shelf is a stark contrast to Floridas eastern coast, which has steep coastal shelves that can reflect some of that storm surge back into the sea when hurricanes strike, Klotzbach said.

Using data from the National Hurricane Center, some models have projected the historic Florida city of Cedar Key could become entirely inundated on Wednesday in a worst-case scenario, with water toppling over homes and leaving much of the town completely submerged.

The tiny city of 700, which was founded in 1842, could suffer from up to 10 to 15 feet of storm surge. Meteorologists begged the towns residents to evacuate immediatelyand pleaded with dare-devil storm chasers to steer clear of the tourist-friendly area, which is famous for its seafood and old Florida vibe.

The National Hurricane Center issues storm surge guidance displaying the 'worst case scenario' surge (i.e., surge that has a 1-in-10 chance of happening)



While this clearly is not guaranteed, it is deeply concerning to see the potential inundation of Cedar Key... pic.twitter.com/vhykg8twBL  Evan Fisher (@EFisherWX) August 29, 2023

If youre thinking about chasing in Cedar Key. Dont, posted Dylan Federico, a meteorologist at Fox 4 in Dallas.

Craig CeeCee, a Mississippi-based meteorologist, posted a more eerie warning to those who try to ride out Idalia on the key.

If youre staying inor chasingCedar Key, think twice, he wrote. You are at high risk of being swamped with flood waters higher than homes, and youll have no way out. First responders won't be able to help you. If you can get out, do so any way you can.

As of 5 p.m. Tuesday, the National Hurricane Center forecasts Idalia will make landfall about 50 miles north of Cedar Key around 7 a.m. Wednesday, with winds between 111-129 mph. If it makes landfall as a Category 3 storm as forecasted, it will be the first major storm of the 2023 Atlantic hurricane season to make landfall in the U.S.

Read more at The Daily Beast.

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The manager of the Game Stop store inside the Millcreek Mall testified on Tuesday that she became nervous on the afternoon of Aug. 12 when a man who entered the store to sell a gaming system also brought with him a long sword.

Ashley Meyner said she expressed to Deshawn D. Slupski that the weapon wasn't supposed to be in the mall. She said Slupski replied that if people can have guns in the mall, he should be able to bring a sword.

Then Slupski said something about cutting someone's head off, Meyner testified.

Prosecutors on Tuesday presented testimony from two Game Stop employees, a Millcreek Mall security officer and a Millcreek Township police officer during the preliminary hearing for Slupski, 34, whom police also accused of confronting and threatening mall security and with turning toward a responding police officer while holding the sword before he eventually dropped the weapon and was taken into custody.

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Millcreek police charged Slupski with offenses including four third-degree felony counts of terroristic threats in the incident. Greene Township District Judge Susan Strohmeyer held Slupski for court on all charges following the hearing.

Strohmeyer also denied a request by Slupski's lawyer, Erie County Public Defender Nicole Kondrlik, to lower the $25,000 bond holding Slupski in the Erie County Prison.

More: Erie man facing terroristic threats, other charges in sword incident at the Millcreek Mall

Game Stop employees felt unsafe, notified security

The incident at the mall happened shortly before 5:30 p.m. on Aug. 12. Meyner and another Game Stop employee testified that Slupski came into the store to sell a game system, and also inquired about where else in the mall he might be able to sell the sword he had. Meyner said she never felt that Slupski was threatening to her but felt it was unsafe for him to have the weapon, noting that there were people in the store who were dropping things because they felt unsafe.

Meyner said she left the store and ran to get mall security because she felt the situation could escalate. She said she had seen Slupski remove the sword from its sheath very briefly, but the other employee said he saw the sword out of its sheath as a small child had asked Slupski about the weapon.

An Erie man accused of brandishing a sword inside the Millcreek Mall on Aug. 12, 2023, was held for court on Aug. 29, 2023, on all charges in the incident.

Dan Laniewicz, a Millcreek Mall security officer, testified that as he and others walked toward Game Stop after the incident was reported, they encountered Slupski and asked him to leave the property with the sword. Slupski then became aggressive, threatened the security staff and said he was going to kill them, Laniewicz said.

Laniewicz said under questioning by Sloane Kondrlik that there is information posted at the mall's entrances stating that no weapons are allowed on the property.

John Drozdowski, a Millcreek police officer who filed the charges against Slupski, testified that he was the first officer to arrive at the mall after police were called there on a report of a male holding a sword. He said he encountered Slupski, who picked up the sword from a table and turned toward him with the weapon in both hands when Drozdowski ordered Slupski to the ground.

Drozdowski said he then ordered Slupski to drop the sword, which he did, and ordered him to the ground as about 75 mall patrons were present.

Slupski was taken into custody without incident and was taken for a mental health evaluation, according to police.

No one was reported injured in the incident, but Drozdowski testified that as he handcuffed Slupski he noticed Slupski was bleeding from his right hand.

Contact Tim Hahn at thahn@timesnews.com. Follow him on Twitter @ETNhahn.

This article originally appeared on Erie Times-News: Erie man held for court on charges in Millcreek Mall sword incident
The EEOC claims TNT Crane & Rigging consistently neglected to address or investigate complaints from four Black employees, instead harassing and discriminating against them.

A construction company has been sued in federal court after employees accused it of hanging nooses and white supremacy symbols at their work.

The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, in a press release, claims the Fort Worth, Texas, branch of TNT Crane & Rigging harassed and discriminated against four Black employees, violating federal law.

According to the lawsuit, the Black employees frequently complained about racial jokes and insults, the Dallas Morning News reported. Nooses and lightning-bolt stickers, a typical white supremacist emblem, were prominently displayed at work, including in the companys now-closed Dallas branch, the newspaper reported.

The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission claims TNT Crane & Rigging violated federal law by harassing and discriminating against four Black employees. (Photo credit: Screenshot/YouTube.com/TNT Crane & Rigging)

The branch manager reportedly called the noose a cowboy knot, and a white employee reportedly once informed a Black colleague that Black people are lazy, the Morning News said.

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TNT knowingly permitted a work environment filled with racist comments and imagery, EEOC attorney Brian Hawthorne said in the press release. No employee should have to work in an environment openly hostile to their race, and no employee should suffer reprisal for objecting to discriminatory practices.

Someone flattened the tires of one employees car after he complained, and a different employee allegedly shoved, threatened, and cursed at him, the newspaper reported.

The EEOC also alleges that the company retaliated and cut a white employees salary and work hours after he voiced his concerns to supervisors and human services.

The branch manager referred to him as a troublemaker and accused him of stirring the pot, while other employees referred to him as a snitch, the lawsuit, as reported by the Morning News, claims. He finally quit due to harassment and poor working conditions. Representatives for TNT Crane & Rigging did not respond to theGrios requests for comment.

On its website, TNT promotes itself as one of North Americas largest crane service suppliers. The business was founded in 1985 in Houston and has since expanded to 40 locations across North America, including Austin and Oklahoma City.

The case, filed on Aug. 24, 2023, in U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Texas, Fort Worth Division, demands back pay, compensatory and punitive damages for the four Black employees, and reinstatement or front pay for the white employee.

The EEOC claims that racism and discrimination against women and people of color are endemic in the construction industry. Charlotte A. Burrows, the agencys chair, said that while the claims are alarming, they are not exceptional.

Unfortunately, many women and people of color have either been shut out of construction jobs or face discrimination that limits their ability to thrive in these careers, Burrows said, the Morning News reported.

TheGrio is FREE on your TV via Apple TV, Amazon Fire, Roku and Android TV. Also, please download theGrio mobile apps today!

The post Texas construction company sued by Black employees after nooses, white supremacy symbols displayed appeared first on TheGrio.
Several Texas education board members condemned PragerU's right-wing curriculum on Tuesday.

They urged member Julie Pickren, to explain why she falsely said that PragerU was coming to Texas schools.

They vowed not to allow PragerU's controversial lessons into Texas schools.

Texas State Board of Education members are vowing to keep controversial curriculum from PragerU out of the state's public schools after one of their colleagues went rogue.

At a press conference on Tuesday, four State Board of Education members joined together with education advocates to condemn PragerU and their board colleague Julie Pickren.

PragerU and Julie Pickren did not immediately respond to Insider's request for comment.

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Last week, Pickren went rogue, partnering with PragerU  which has already been approved in Florida  to falsely announce that the right-wing group's educational materials had been approved for use in Texas.

In the video, titled "PragerU Kids is Now in Texas!," Pickren tells PragerU CEO Marissa Streit, "We are definitely ready to welcome PragerU into the great state of Texas." A blurb beside the video also claims that "PragerU is an approved education vendor in the state of Texas."

The board members said at Tuesday's press conference that PragerU has not been approved for use in Texas public schools, and they vowed to try to keep it out of the state's schools.

"Let me set the record straight: We have not voted on anything regarding PragerU," State Board of Education member Staci Childs said at the press conference. "Those are lies. I want my colleague to stand up and explain to us, especially the people here, why she's spewing those lies."

"I'm very disheartened," she added. "But you can count on me. If I have anything to do with it, PragerU will not be in Texas."

Speakers at Tuesday's conference denounced PragerU's educational videos, which they said attempt to whitewash history, defend slavery, and promote gender norms.

Childs said she was particularly offended by one of PragerU's videos, in which she said that a narrator suggests that slavery is just a part of life and is better than being killed.

"We were surprised and shocked by what our colleague was doing," board member Melissa Ortega said."We do not endorse this, and we will not be having this come to Texas."

Read the original article on Business Insider
This article is co-published and co-reported with The Texas Tribune, a nonprofit newsroom that informs Texans about state policy and politics. Sign up for The Brief, its daily newsletter.

When officers from the Texas National Guard showed up to their 7 a.m. meeting with federal agents from Homeland Security Investigations in El Paso, they didnt arrive empty-handed.

Six military intelligence officials turned over a list of names at the February 2022 meeting. The Texans were part of an intelligence directorate supporting Operation Lone Star, Gov. Greg Abbotts state-run border mission. The officers, which included the groups top two leaders, told federal agents theyd secretly infiltrated invite-only WhatsApp group chats filled with migrants and smugglers and wanted their help investigating the targets theyd identified, according to a sworn statement attached to a whistleblower complaint filed later that month.

The Homeland Security officials in the meeting rebuffed the Texans on the spot  with one official saying that they were an investigative body and not an intelligence agency, the whistleblower recalled.

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An investigation by Military Times and The Texas Tribune has found that Texas National Guard leaders disbanded Operation Lone Stars intelligence wing after whistleblowers reported the WhatsApp surveillance, which targeted migrant groups to track them through Mexico, because they believed it violated long-standing rules against state-run spy operations. During the same period, another team from the intelligence directorate allegedly sent classified FBI intelligence to their Texas Guard colleagues in an apparent violation of federal secrecy laws, according to an internal incident report.

At least four intelligence officers have faced interim administrative discipline in the debacles wake:

Lt. Col. David Eric Tyler led the border intelligence section from December 2021 to fall 2022.

Maj. Dezi J. Rios, the intelligence wings deputy director, allegedly oversaw the WhatsApp collection operation.

Chief Warrant Officer 2 Eric E. Hack led the El Paso team that allegedly shared classified FBI intelligence.

Then-1st Lt. Emmanuel L. Pierre, a military intelligence officer from a subordinate unit, allegedly began the WhatsApp intelligence operation about a month before Rios arrived at the border.

The Texas Military Departments inspector general, with assistance from the National Guard Bureau, investigated potential questionable intelligence activities, the agency confirmed in response to questions for this story. The agency said in a statement that the watchdog concluded its investigation in September 2022 but has not yet shared its final report, adding that it will finalize discipline once leaders receive it. Leaders initially reorganized and eventually disbanded the intelligence directorate in fall 2022, folding the remaining personnel into the missions operations section, a source familiar with the missions organization said.

A Texas National Guard member assigned to Operation Lone Star stands watch in El Paso, Texas, May 9, 2023. (Spc. Joe Cantu/Army)

According to an official document that Rios provided to Military Times and the Tribune summarizing part of the investigation, the inspector generals office found that the WhatsApp scheme was an unauthorized foreign intelligence operation and faulted Rios for overseeing Pierres work  a finding Rios disputes. Its unclear if the inspector general concluded that any other officers broke the rules.

Two of the implicated officers, Tyler and Rios, told Military Times and the Tribune that senior leaders set them up to take the fall for the operation. Both claimed they shared concerns about the legality of Pierres WhatsApp work to the missions top brass at the time, Brig. Gen. Monie Ulis and Col. Kevin Boates, but were unable to convince them to end it.

According to a sworn statement Rios made June 25, he and state intelligence officials were unable to convince [Col.] Boates or [Brig. Gen.] Ulis to stop the WhatsApp operation. In a Dec. 27, 2021 email  obtained through an open records request  Rios claimed to have expressed my reservations with [Col.] Boates and [Brig. Gen.] Ulis about the WhatsApp operation to no avail.

In his sworn statement  included in his own June complaint with the inspector general alleging the state failed to set clear guidelines for intelligence activity at the border  Rios said Boates ordered me to oversee Pierres WhatsApp operation while simultaneously blocking Rios from stopping it. He filed the complaint because the investigation blocked his promotion to lieutenant colonel, he said.

Tyler, who has served in the Texas Guard for 33 years, said through his attorney that he was disappointed that  Im being sanctioned based [on] an investigation report that Im not allowed to see. The lieutenant colonel added, I assume the reason that they wont tell me anything or provide me any evidence is that if I somehow failed to supervise a junior officer that reported directly to [Brig. Gen.] Ulis, then Ulis should be accountable.

Ulis was appointed as the deputy commanding general of U.S. Army South in June, a role held simultaneously with his appointment as the states assistant adjutant general.

Hack, Boates and Ulis did not respond to interview requests made via phone and email. Pierre declined to comment.

For this story, Military Times and the Tribune obtained more than 750 pages of internal Texas Guard records, spoke with intelligence oversight experts, and interviewed three verified Texas National Guard service members who had direct knowledge of the events. They requested anonymity because they feared retaliation from state officials and have not been accused of wrongdoing.

Uniquely vulnerable to abuse

When the WhatsApp intelligence operation began in fall 2021, Operation Lone Star was undergoing a multibillion-dollar expansion from a lean, volunteer-staffed outfit into a long-term domestic military deployment of unprecedented scale staffed by part-time troops who are effectively temporary state employees.

The pseudo-military mission  which at its height deployed 10,000 Guard members across the state  had growing pains, including payroll problems and poor living conditions for the service members, that occurred due to poor planning and a lack of bureaucratic preparedness. Its intelligence efforts werent exempt from the planning gaps.

The Texas National Guard take positions along the Rio Grande to help patrol the border between the U.S. and Mexico, Tuesday, Dec. 20, 2022, in El Paso, Texas. (Ivan Pierre Aguirre for The Texas Tribune)

Operation Lone Stars commanders demanded military-style intelligence from their intelligence personnel, according to Tyler and three other troops with direct knowledge of the work.

Everyone [in charge] wanted to pretend it was like Iraq in 2003, one service member said in an interview. They wanted to do Army stuff, even though this is [legally] not Army stuff.

All the Generals wanted to know about the next mass migration, Tyler said through his attorney in an email when asked if he was ever pressured to violate intel rules.

According to official planning documents and three soldiers with knowledge of the mission, leaders directed the border intelligence wing to detect the capabilities of transnational criminal organizations in Mexico and track their criminal activity, in addition to predicting where migrants would try to cross the border.

Such intelligence work is essentially unheard of for National Guard members on state active duty  a state-funded status typically used for short-lived missions. Typically, Guard intelligence personnel deployed under such orders are limited to predicting and assessing the severity of disaster damage, perhaps following a storm or during riots.

The demand for intelligence posed a problem, too. According to National Guard Bureau regulations and a Guard intelligence representative, personnel on state active duty are barred from doing national security foreign intelligence work, and theyre banned from using Defense Department intelligence systems or techniques, known as tradecraft. Instead, they may, to the extent permitted by state law and regulations, support partner law enforcement agencies.

State-level intelligence oversight officials wanted to coordinate closely with the National Guard Bureau to ensure compliance. But as transgressions piled up, one state intelligence official, Chief Warrant Officer 4 XLenske Sampson, emailed border intelligence officers and warned of the potential fallout if the media [were] to find out or assume the Texas National Guard is conducting Intelligence Operations on the border.

Sampson did not respond to interview requests.

His counterparts on the border  including Tyler, the top intelligence officer there  disagreed and argued via email that federal regulations didnt apply to their conduct on state duty so long as they didnt use federally controlled intelligence systems and tools. Tylers attorney, Doug OConnell, echoed that argument in an Aug. 16 statement to Military Times and the Tribune.

Any competent attorney that understands basic Constitutional law will tell you that when the militia is deployed by the Governor, for a state mission, federal regulations are inapplicable unless federal funds or equipment are involved, OConnell said.

Tyler chafed at the restrictions.

All I get is No, he lamented in a February 2022 email to a state official over limits on intelligence training. I need a way to Yes.

The internal documents show widespread confusion and debate over what rules applied and when. And with intelligence work, the stakes are high  todays strict oversight procedures exist because Defense Department personnel ran massive domestic intelligence operations during the Vietnam War that targeted Americans based solely on how they legally exercised their First Amendment rights.

A group of migrants from Venezuela walk between the southern border wall and the Rio Grande river towards a temporary border patrol processing facility on Oct. 6, 2022 in El Paso, TX. (Jordan Vonderhaar for The Texas Tribune)

National Guard intelligence efforts like the WhatsApp operation are uniquely vulnerable to abuse without prior coordination with state and federal law enforcement, said lawyer Charles McCullough, who oversaw intelligence oversight for the intelligence communitys 18 civilian and military organizations from 2011 to 2017 as its Senate-confirmed inspector general.

McCullough, who also served as the National Security Agencys top investigator, described the authorities governing intelligence work as overlapping and arcane, and said that the Texas Military Department, like any agency undertaking such an effort, owed clearer guidelines to its personnel from the missions outset.

The former watchdog added that if commanders override concerns from intelligence oversight officials  as two implicated officers claim Boates and Ulis did  they should bear responsibility for any violations.

Michael German, a former FBI special agent who studies intelligence policy as a fellow at the Brennan Center for Justice at New York University School of Law, warned that if states try to run their own foreign military intelligence operations, they risk upsetting the delicate ecosystem of international diplomacy with unpredictable spin-off effects.

German also said operations like the WhatsApp scheme put intelligence operatives at risk and endanger national security.

Having untrained people running ad hoc operations puts them at risk and dilutes the value of [real intelligence]...because it gets mixed with information that doesnt go through the same vetting process, he said. Adding another layer of inappropriate [intelligence] activities isnt making America safer.

Burners on the border

When around 15,000 migrants of Haitian descent streamed across the Rio Grande near Del Rio in September 2021, then-1st Lt. Emmanuel Pierre found new demand for a decades-old skill set.

Pierre was born in Haiti in 1978, according to a 2017 interview. The native Haitian Creole speaker learned English and translated for U.S. and United Nations personnel before immigrating to Florida. He enlisted in the Army in 2006, and eventually became a Texas National Guard intelligence officer.

After volunteering for Operation Lone Star in early 2021, the lieutenant quickly became an assistant intelligence officer based in Weslaco with Task Force Salerno, which later became Task Force East after the border mission expanded, three sources said.

According to internal emails, Texas Department of Public Safety and Border Patrol officials tapped Pierre as a translator during the Del Rio crisis, authorizing him to wear civilian clothes.

The emails offer conflicting tales. In one version, Pierre simply translated. Other officials claimed the intelligence officer concealed his identity and did clandestine interviews on U.S. soil, possibly violating rules against using human intelligence tradecraft while on state duty.

An official from Customs and Border Protection, the parent agency of Border Patrol, denied that its agents requested Pierre  or any Texas Guardsman  for translation services during the Del Rio crisis. The Texas Department of Public Safety did not respond to emailed questions.

Haitian migrants gather along the banks of the Rio Grande as a Texas Department of Safety helicopter flies overhead in Del Rio on Thursday, Sept.16, 2021. (Jordan Vonderhaar for The Texas Tribune)

But all accounts agreed on one thing: Pierre carried a cellphone that had access to WhatsApp chats from migrants and smugglers. Many migrants use the encrypted messaging app to communicate internationally during their journey to the United States.

In an email to Tyler, Rios claimed that Boates, the Operation Lone Star deputy commander, purchased the phone for Pierre.

The WhatsApp chats were in English, Creole and Spanish, later emails claimed.

Texas intelligence officials were alarmed by Pierres conduct.

On Oct. 26, 2021, a state intelligence officer, Chief Warrant Officer 3 Matthew Sugars, emailed the border intelligence directorate to request written statements about the work a soldier  whose name was redacted in records  did with Border Patrol intelligence agents. Sugars did not respond to an interview request. Three people from the mission identified the redacted soldier as Pierre.

In the days following Sugars email, he and border mission officials feverishly worked to update their guidance for intelligence personnel on the border. But the two sides struggled to settle on a rulebook, and a final version was not completed for about 10 weeks. As they debated, the WhatsApp operation continued.

Boates, the missions deputy commander, shot a Nov. 4, 2021, email to Rios ordering him to assist with analysis of the information that Pierre received on the phone.

In order to comply, Rios began monitoring Pierres WhatsApp activity through a DoD computer linked to the phone, according to the whistleblowers sworn statement and emails from state officials. Investigators later found he used the computer between Nov. 1, 2021, and April 2022, though he disputed that timeline.

Rios also assigned a junior soldier to translate Spanish messages from the migrant groups, two sources and documents confirmed. A Guardsman with knowledge of the operation said Rios would have her just go in and ask questions, but could not definitively say what she asked. The source noted that under federal authority, sending messages in targeted conversations, as opposed to passive listening, requires high-level approvals and strict controls.

In his June 2023 sworn statement and his contemporaneous emails, Rios insisted he used the WhatsApp-linked computer to monitor Pierre for potential wrongdoing. He reiterated this argument in interviews, and he also emphasized Boates alleged role directing the operation.

Because Rios wouldnt let others use the computer, his peers and subordinates grew suspicious, a whistleblowers sworn statement said.

Alarm bells

In late December 2021, a service member on the border mission reported Pierres WhatsApp work as questionable intelligence activity. It was the first of three such reports confirmed by Military Times and the Tribune.

A former signals intelligence specialist who spoke with Military Times and the Tribune likened such reports to pulling the emergency brake on a car  they often immediately shut down units for investigation.

Even the accusation of a questionable intelligence activity could bring an office to an immediate halt, said the specialist, who requested anonymity because he works on defense contracts.

State officials tried to do that after receiving the complaint.

A soldier from Operation Lone Star stands guard, May 11, 2023 near El Paso, Texas, on the Rio Grande River. (Mark Otte/Texas Military Department)

Air Force Maj. Meredith Zinni, a state intelligence officer, sent an urgent email on Dec. 30, 2021, that announced the complaint against Pierres continued clandestine style operations. Zinni, who did not respond to an interview request, insisted that the WhatsApp operation MUST IMMEDIATELY CEASE.

In a subsequent email, Sugars also said all actions Pierre had taken using WhatsApp violated National Guard restrictions banning intelligence work while on state active duty. He claimed Texas Military Department attorneys agreed the actions are violations of [state active duty] status.

Tyler waited a week before he ordered Pierre to stop communicating with any foreign national using WhatsApp or any other app or platform on Jan. 6, 2022. A week later, Tyler asked Rios to help monitor Pierre for violations of that order, according to an email and a statement from his attorney.

But the lieutenant colonel also argued the state was wrong about how and when intelligence oversight rules applied, claiming Operation Lone Star and Pierres actions presented a unique situation.

Rios claimed the WhatsApp operation ended in January 2022, when he transitioned to preserving evidence of Pierres transgressions, according to emails and statements he wrote. But another soldiers questionable intelligence activity report claimed Rios, through his computer, had access to the WhatsApp account and used it for more than monitoring.

The soldiers report was made in the wake of the Feb. 1, 2022, meeting with Homeland Security Investigations officials, where the Texans purportedly presented the list of names gathered from WhatsApp for further investigation. The complainant attended the meeting, which they detailed in a sworn statement to investigators.

Rios and Tyler, who were the senior Texas Guard intelligence officials present that day, confirmed the meeting occurred but denied handing over a list of names from WhatsApp.

Unaccompanied minor asylum seekers are apprehended by Customs and Border Protection after crossing the border in Roma on Aug. 3, 2021. (Sophie Park/The Texas Tribune)

According to documents and Guard members with knowledge of the events, investigators stepped in after the soldiers report and started interviews about the WhatsApp operation in March 2022. The Texas Military Department confirmed its inspector general investigation, which began at an unspecified date, brought in National Guard Bureau intelligence oversight officials for assistance that same month.

Its unclear why Texas National Guard officials tapped Rios as the missions deputy intelligence director in October 2021. The intel officer had resigned from the San Antonio Police Department that same month after his involvement in a third road rage incident in four years led to misdemeanor criminal charges. (In May 2023, the Bexar County district attorneys office ultimately dropped the charges against Rios. The former police officer was not arrested or charged in connection with the first two road rage incidents.)

Secrets spilled

Meanwhile, another policy debate raged over Operation Lone Stars efforts to embed intelligence officers with federal agencies throughout Texas.

It had been months in the making.

In January 2022, the FBIs El Paso Field Office invited Operation Lone Star to embed a small team there to bolster its intelligence ranks. The FBIs invitation email also noted that a memorandum of understanding, or MOU, would set limits on who could work on what and when. Such agreements also delineate access to classified information.

Similar arrangements had been successful elsewhere. Under formal agreements in Laredo, a number of Texas Guard members successfully joined an anti-cartel joint law enforcement task force named Blue Indigo.

But El Pasos FBI agreement was never signed amid various delays and leadership changes.

Meanwhile, Hack, the intelligence warrant officer whose civilian job was as an intel analyst at the FBIs El Paso office, moved home and embedded in his old workplace as an Operation Lone Star representative. A second soldier joined him there.

An operations officer on the border mission learned of the El Paso team in late March and filed a questionable intelligence activity whistleblower report on April 1, 2022, that included screenshots of messages and phone records.

The officer argued that the collaboration violated intelligence oversight rules because there wasnt a signed MOU.

The officer did not respond to an interview request from Military Times and the Tribune.

People in Piedras Negras, Mexico, are seen taking photos, through recently installed concertina wire, of the U.S. side as Border Patrol agents patrol Rio Grande in Eagle Pass, Texas on Nov. 8, 2021. (Veronica G. Cardenas for ProPublica/The Texas Tribune)

Within hours of the report, Tyler argued with state intelligence officials again over the legal authorities that allowed state active duty soldiers to work with federal agencies. In an April 3, 2022, email, he claimed that National Guard Bureau intelligence oversight procedures dont apply to Operation Lone Star.

But then, in late May 2022, Hacks team at the FBI El Paso field office allegedly used classified systems that were not authorized and sent classified FBI intelligence back to Operation Lone Star, according to an internal Texas Guard incident report.

A service member from the mission said the incident occurred on May 24, and the internal report said that state intelligence officials discovered it May 26.

Fallout

Within days of the alleged spill, the Texas Guard suspended Tylers security clearance, and investigators came calling, according to emails he sent in June 2022. The lieutenant colonel told investigators he thought they were misled and misinformed, arguing that any transgressions were born of confusion.

Hacks military personnel record was flagged for administrative investigation on June 2, 2022, the day of the incident report, and he was sent home from the border mission. Flagged troops are blocked from awards, promotions or other favorable personnel actions.

Classified document spills can be punished as criminal offenses, but theyre often quietly handled via administrative means, according to German, a fellow at the Brennan Center. He decried the practice.

If youre not going to get in trouble for breaking the rules, and you have a very important issue, the rules arent going to be a very strong bulwark against that kind of abuse, he said.

Its not clear whether Hack has faced any formal discipline in either his military or civilian careers. The FBI, through an unnamed spokesperson, refused to comment on Hack or his status.

The FBI takes the unauthorized removal, retention or transmission of sensitive information, whether classified or unclassified, very seriously and will continue its commitment to prevent any mishandling of sensitive information, the bureau said.

Rios and Tyler were sent home from Operation Lone Star in fall 2022 amid the investigations, they confirmed to Military Times and the Tribune.

According to the partial summary of the investigative report Rios provided, the inspector general substantiated intelligence oversight violations by at least Pierre and Rios. The officer received the document, a summary of adverse information in a restricted Army database, because the investigations findings blocked his promotion to lieutenant colonel. Military Times and the Tribune could not independently confirm whether other officers had adverse findings.

But it was nearly a year before Tyler, Rios and Pierre also received administrative investigation flags on their military personnel records in May 2023  one day after Rios emailed a Texas Military Department general to ask why his promotion had been blocked. Tyler and Rios also confirmed that their security clearances are suspended.

A National Guard soldier oversees an area where the border wall ends in Del Rio, on Nov. 7, 2021. (Veronica G. Cardenas for ProPublica/The Texas Tribune)

The three anonymous service members who spoke with Military Times and the Tribune said their experience left them disillusioned. They lost faith in the Texas National Guards ability to ethically execute its missions.

If theyre willing to compromise their integrity over something like that, one soldier asked, who knows where theyll stop?

A second service member said hes fearful that other states might use federally trained intelligence troops in state-run intelligence operations unless the federal government makes an example out of Texas.

You give intel soldiers enough tools  were violating many constitutional rights very quickly, he added.

The third was shaken by what he felt was a failure by Texas National Guard leaders to use its intelligence troops in a legal and effective manner.

The service member said a Guardsman from the border intel directorate had volunteered to build a tool to track the Rio Grandes water flow and alert leaders when conditions were unsafe for migrants and soldiers alike, but it was deemed not important. Spc. Bishop Evans, a 22-year-old Guard member from Arlington, drowned trying to save two migrants in April 2022.

And thats the frustrating thing about this, he said. We did all this shit, we broke all these rules. And for

He trailed off.

Correction, Aug. 30, 2023 at 4:49 p.m. EST: In a previous version of this story, a helicopter was incorrectly identified in a photo caption as belonging to Customs and Border Protection. It is the property of the Texas Department of Public Safety.
This article is co-published and co-reported with Military Times, an independent news organization reporting on issues important to the U.S. military. Sign up for its daily Early Bird Brief newsletter here.

Editors note: This story contains explicit language.

When officers from the Texas National Guard showed up to their 7 a.m. meeting with federal agents from Homeland Security Investigations in El Paso, they didnt arrive empty-handed.

Six military intelligence officials turned over a list of names at the February 2022 meeting. The Texans were part of an intelligence directorate supporting Operation Lone Star, Gov. Greg Abbott's state-run border mission. The officers, which included the groups top two leaders, told federal agents theyd secretly infiltrated invite-only WhatsApp group chats filled with migrants and smugglers and wanted their help investigating the targets theyd identified, according to a sworn statement attached to a whistleblower complaint filed later that month.

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The Homeland Security officials in the meeting rebuffed the Texans on the spot  with one official saying that they were an investigative body and not an intelligence agency, the whistleblower recalled.

An investigation by Military Times and The Texas Tribune has found that Texas National Guard leaders disbanded Operation Lone Stars intelligence wing after whistleblowers reported the WhatsApp surveillance, which targeted migrant groups to track them through Mexico, because they believed it violated long-standing rules against state-run spy operations. During the same period, another team from the intelligence directorate allegedly sent classified FBI intelligence to their Texas Guard colleagues in an apparent violation of federal secrecy laws, according to an internal incident report.

At least four intelligence officers have faced interim administrative discipline in the debacles wake:

Lt. Col. David Eric Tyler led the border intelligence section from December 2021 to fall 2022.

Maj. Dezi J. Rios, the intelligence wings deputy director, allegedly oversaw the WhatsApp collection operation.

Chief Warrant Officer 2 Eric E. Hack led the El Paso team that allegedly shared classified FBI intelligence.

Then-1st Lt. Emmanuel L. Pierre, a military intelligence officer from a subordinate unit, allegedly began the WhatsApp intelligence operation about a month before Rios arrived at the border.

The Texas Military Departments inspector general, with assistance from the National Guard Bureau, investigated potential questionable intelligence activities, the agency confirmed in response to questions for this story. The agency said in a statement that the watchdog concluded its investigation in September 2022 but has not yet shared its final report, adding that it will finalize discipline once leaders receive it. Leaders initially reorganized and eventually disbanded the intelligence directorate in fall 2022, folding the remaining personnel into the missions operations section, a source familiar with the missions organization said.

According to an official document that Rios provided to Military Times and the Tribune summarizing part of the investigation, the inspector generals office found that the WhatsApp scheme was an unauthorized foreign intelligence operation and faulted Rios for overseeing Pierres work  a finding Rios disputes. Its unclear if the inspector general concluded that any other officers broke the rules.

Two of the implicated officers, Tyler and Rios, told Military Times and the Tribune that senior leaders set them up to take the fall for the operation. Both claimed they shared concerns about the legality of Pierres WhatsApp work to the missions top brass at the time, Brig. Gen. Monie Ulis and Col. Kevin Boates, but were unable to convince them to end it.

According to a sworn statement Rios made June 25, he and state intelligence officials were unable to convince [Col.] Boates or [Brig. Gen.] Ulis to stop the WhatsApp operation. In a Dec. 27, 2021 email  obtained through an open records request  Rios claimed to have expressed my reservations with [Col.] Boates and [Brig. Gen.] Ulis about the WhatsApp operation to no avail.

In his sworn statement  included in his own June complaint with the inspector general alleging the state failed to set clear guidelines for intelligence activity at the border  Rios said Boates ordered me to oversee Pierres WhatsApp operation while simultaneously blocking Rios from stopping it. He filed the complaint because the investigation blocked his promotion to lieutenant colonel, he said.

Tyler, who has served in the Texas Guard for 33 years, said through his attorney that he was disappointed that  Im being sanctioned based [on] an investigation report that Im not allowed to see. The lieutenant colonel added, I assume the reason that they wont tell me anything or provide me any evidence is that if I somehow failed to supervise a junior officer that reported directly to [Brig. Gen.] Ulis, then Ulis should be accountable.

Ulis was appointed as the deputy commanding general of U.S. Army South in June, a role held simultaneously with his appointment as the states assistant adjutant general.

Hack, Boates and Ulis did not respond to interview requests made via phone and email. Pierre declined to comment.

For this story, Military Times and the Tribune obtained more than 750 pages of internal Texas Guard records, spoke with intelligence oversight experts, and interviewed three verified Texas National Guard service members who had direct knowledge of the events. They requested anonymity because they feared retaliation from state officials and have not been accused of wrongdoing.

Uniquely vulnerable to abuse

When the WhatsApp intelligence operation began in fall 2021, Operation Lone Star was undergoing a multibillion-dollar expansion from a lean, volunteer-staffed outfit into a long-term domestic military deployment of unprecedented scale staffed by part-time troops who are effectively temporary state employees.

The pseudo-military mission  which at its height deployed 10,000 Guard members across the state  had growing pains, including payroll problems and poor living conditions for the service members, that occurred due to poor planning and a lack of bureaucratic preparedness. Its intelligence efforts werent exempt from the planning gaps.

Unaccompanied minor asylum seekers are apprehended by Customs and Border Protection after crossing the border in Roma on Aug. 3, 2021. Credit: Sophie Park/The Texas Tribune

Operation Lone Stars commanders demanded military-style intelligence from their intelligence personnel, according to Tyler and three other troops with direct knowledge of the work.

Everyone [in charge] wanted to pretend it was like Iraq in 2003, one service member said in an interview. They wanted to do Army stuff, even though this is [legally] not Army stuff.

All the Generals wanted to know about the next mass migration, Tyler said through his attorney in an email when asked if he was ever pressured to violate intel rules.

According to official planning documents and three soldiers with knowledge of the mission, leaders directed the border intelligence wing to detect the capabilities of transnational criminal organizations in Mexico and track their criminal activity, in addition to predicting where migrants would try to cross the border.

Such intelligence work is essentially unheard of for National Guard members on state active duty  a state-funded status typically used for short-lived missions. Typically, Guard intelligence personnel deployed under such orders are limited to predicting and assessing the severity of disaster damage, perhaps following a storm or during riots.

The demand for intelligence posed a problem, too. According to National Guard Bureau regulations and a Guard intelligence representative, personnel on state active duty are barred from doing national security foreign intelligence work, and theyre banned from using Defense Department intelligence systems or techniques, known as tradecraft. Instead, they may, to the extent permitted by state law and regulations, support partner law enforcement agencies.

State-level intelligence oversight officials wanted to coordinate closely with the National Guard Bureau to ensure compliance. But as transgressions piled up, one state intelligence official, Chief Warrant Officer 4 XLenske Sampson, emailed border intelligence officers and warned of the potential fallout if the media [were] to find out or assume the Texas National Guard is conducting Intelligence Operations on the border.

Sampson did not respond to interview requests.

His counterparts on the border  including Tyler, the top intelligence officer there  disagreed and argued via email that federal regulations didnt apply to their conduct on state duty so long as they didnt use federally controlled intelligence systems and tools. Tylers attorney, Doug OConnell, echoed that argument in an Aug. 16 statement to Military Times and the Tribune.

Any competent attorney that understands basic Constitutional law will tell you that when the militia is deployed by the Governor, for a state mission, federal regulations are inapplicable unless federal funds or equipment are involved, OConnell said.

Tyler chafed at the restrictions.

All I get is No, he lamented in a February 2022 email to a state official over limits on intelligence training. I need a way to Yes.

The internal documents show widespread confusion and debate over what rules applied and when. And with intelligence work, the stakes are high  todays strict oversight procedures exist because Defense Department personnel ran massive domestic intelligence operations during the Vietnam War that targeted Americans based solely on how they legally exercised their First Amendment rights.

National Guard intelligence efforts like the WhatsApp operation are uniquely vulnerable to abuse without prior coordination with state and federal law enforcement, said lawyer Charles McCullough, who oversaw intelligence oversight for the intelligence communitys 18 civilian and military organizations from 2011 to 2017 as its Senate-confirmed inspector general.

McCullough, who also served as the National Security Agencys top investigator, described the authorities governing intelligence work as overlapping and arcane, and said that the Texas Military Department, like any agency undertaking such an effort, owed clearer guidelines to its personnel from the missions outset.

The former watchdog added that if commanders override concerns from intelligence oversight officials  as two implicated officers claim Boates and Ulis did  they should bear responsibility for any violations.

Michael German, a former FBI special agent who studies intelligence policy as a fellow at the Brennan Center for Justice at New York University School of Law, warned that if states try to run their own foreign military intelligence operations, they risk upsetting the delicate ecosystem of international diplomacy with unpredictable spin-off effects.

German also said operations like the WhatsApp scheme put intelligence operatives at risk and endanger national security.

Having untrained people running ad hoc operations puts them at risk and dilutes the value of [real intelligence]...because it gets mixed with information that doesnt go through the same vetting process, he said. Adding another layer of inappropriate [intelligence] activities isnt making America safer.

Burners on the border

When around 15,000 migrants of Haitian descent streamed across the Rio Grande near Del Rio in September 2021, then-1st Lt. Emmanuel Pierre found new demand for a decades-old skill set.

Haitian migrants gather along the banks of the Rio Grande as a Texas Department of Safety helicopter flies overhead in Del Rio on Thursday, September 16, 2021. Credit: Jordan Vonderhaar for the Texas Tribune

Pierre was born in Haiti in 1978, according to a 2017 interview. The native Haitian Creole speaker learned English and translated for U.S. and United Nations personnel before immigrating to Florida. He enlisted in the Army in 2006, and eventually became a Texas National Guard intelligence officer.

After volunteering for Operation Lone Star in early 2021, the lieutenant quickly became an assistant intelligence officer based in Weslaco with Task Force Salerno, which later became Task Force East after the border mission expanded, three sources said.

According to internal emails, Texas Department of Public Safety and Border Patrol officials tapped Pierre as a translator during the Del Rio crisis, authorizing him to wear civilian clothes.

The emails offer conflicting tales. In one version, Pierre simply translated. Other officials claimed the intelligence officer concealed his identity and did clandestine interviews on U.S. soil, possibly violating rules against using human intelligence tradecraft while on state duty.

An official from Customs and Border Protection, the parent agency of Border Patrol, denied that its agents requested Pierre  or any Texas Guards member  for translation services during the Del Rio crisis. The Texas Department of Public Safety did not respond to emailed questions.

But all accounts agreed on one thing: Pierre carried a cellphone that had access to WhatsApp chats from migrants and smugglers. Many migrants use the encrypted messaging app to communicate internationally during their journey to the United States.

In an email to Tyler, Rios claimed that Boates, the Operation Lone Star deputy commander, purchased the phone for Pierre.

The WhatsApp chats were in English, Creole and Spanish, later emails claimed.

Texas intelligence officials were alarmed by Pierres conduct.

On Oct. 26, 2021, a state intelligence officer, Chief Warrant Officer 3 Matthew Sugars, emailed the border intelligence directorate to request written statements about the work a soldier  whose name was redacted in records  did with Border Patrol intelligence agents. Sugars did not respond to an interview request. Three people from the mission identified the redacted soldier as Pierre.

In the days following Sugars email, he and border mission officials feverishly worked to update their guidance for intelligence personnel on the border. But the two sides struggled to settle on a rulebook, and a final version was not completed for about 10 weeks. As they debated, the WhatsApp operation continued.

Boates, the missions deputy commander, shot a Nov. 4, 2021, email to Rios ordering him to assist with analysis of the information that Pierre received on the phone.

In order to comply, Rios began monitoring Pierres WhatsApp activity through a DoD computer linked to the phone, according to the whistleblowers sworn statement and emails from state officials. Investigators later found he used the computer between Nov. 1, 2021, and April 2022, though he disputed that timeline.

Rios also assigned a junior soldier to translate Spanish messages from the migrant groups, two sources and documents confirmed. A Guards member with knowledge of the operation said Rios would have her just go in and ask questions, but could not definitively say what she asked. The source noted that under federal authority, sending messages in targeted conversations, as opposed to passive listening, requires high-level approvals and strict controls.

Texas National Guard soldiers take positions along the Rio Grande to help patrol the border between the U.S. and Mexico in El Paso on December 20, 2022. Credit: Ivan Pierre Aguirre for The Texas Tribune

In his June 2023 sworn statement and his contemporaneous emails, Rios insisted he used the WhatsApp-linked computer to monitor Pierre for potential wrongdoing. He reiterated this argument in interviews, and he also emphasized Boates alleged role directing the operation.

Because Rios wouldnt let others use the computer, his peers and subordinates grew suspicious, a whistleblowers sworn statement said.

Alarm bells

In late December 2021, a service member on the border mission reported Pierres WhatsApp work as questionable intelligence activity. It was the first of three such reports confirmed by Military Times and the Tribune.

A former signals intelligence specialist who spoke with Military Times and the Tribune likened such reports to pulling the emergency brake on a car  they often immediately shut down units for investigation.

Even the accusation of a questionable intelligence activity could bring an office to an immediate halt, said the specialist, who requested anonymity because he works on defense contracts.

State officials tried to do that after receiving the complaint.

Air Force Maj. Meredith Zinni, a state intelligence officer, sent an urgent email on Dec. 30, 2021, that announced the complaint against Pierres continued clandestine style operations. Zinni, who did not respond to an interview request, insisted that the WhatsApp operation MUST IMMEDIATELY CEASE.

In a subsequent email, Sugars also said all actions Pierre had taken using WhatsApp violated National Guard restrictions banning intelligence work while on state active duty. He claimed Texas Military Department attorneys agreed the actions are violations of [state active duty] status.

Tyler waited a week before he ordered Pierre to stop communicating with any foreign national using WhatsApp or any other app or platform on Jan. 6, 2022. A week later, Tyler asked Rios to help monitor Pierre for violations of that order, according to an email and a statement from his attorney.

But the lieutenant colonel also argued the state was wrong about how and when intelligence oversight rules applied, claiming Operation Lone Star and Pierres actions presented a unique situation.

Rios claimed the WhatsApp operation ended in January 2022, when he transitioned to preserving evidence of Pierres transgressions, according to emails and statements he wrote. But another soldiers questionable intelligence activity report claimed Rios, through his computer, had access to the WhatsApp account and used it for more than monitoring.

A group of migrants from Venezuela walk between the southern border wall and the Rio Grande towards a temporary border patrol processing facility in El Paso on October 6, 2022. Credit: Jordan Vonderhaar for The Texas Tribune

The soldiers report was made in the wake of the Feb. 1, 2022, meeting with Homeland Security Investigations officials, where the Texans purportedly presented the list of names gathered from WhatsApp for further investigation. The complainant attended the meeting, which they detailed in a sworn statement to investigators.

Rios and Tyler, who were the senior Texas Guard intelligence officials present that day, confirmed the meeting occurred but denied handing over a list of names from WhatsApp.

According to documents and Guard members with knowledge of the events, investigators stepped in after the soldiers report and started interviews about the WhatsApp operation in March 2022. The Texas Military Department confirmed its inspector general investigation, which began at an unspecified date, brought in National Guard Bureau intelligence oversight officials for assistance that same month.

Its unclear why Texas National Guard officials tapped Rios as the missions deputy intelligence director in October 2021. The intel officer had resigned from the San Antonio Police Department that same month after his involvement in a third road rage incident in four years led to misdemeanor criminal charges. (In May 2023, the Bexar County district attorneys office ultimately dropped the charges against Rios. The former police officer was not arrested or charged in connection with the first two road rage incidents.)

Secrets spilled

Meanwhile, another policy debate raged over Operation Lone Stars efforts to embed intelligence officers with federal agencies throughout Texas.

It had been months in the making.

In January 2022, the FBIs El Paso Field Office invited Operation Lone Star to embed a small team there to bolster its intelligence ranks. The FBIs invitation email also noted that a memorandum of understanding, or MOU, would set limits on who could work on what and when. Such agreements also delineate access to classified information.

Similar arrangements had been successful elsewhere. Under formal agreements in Laredo, a number of Texas Guard members successfully joined an anti-cartel joint law enforcement task force named Blue Indigo.

But El Pasos FBI agreement was never signed amid various delays and leadership changes.

Meanwhile, Hack, the intelligence warrant officer whose civilian job was as an intel analyst at the FBIs El Paso office, moved home and embedded in his old workplace as an Operation Lone Star representative. A second soldier joined him there.

An operations officer on the border mission learned of the El Paso team in late March and filed a questionable intelligence activity whistleblower report on April 1, 2022, that included screenshots of messages and phone records.

The officer argued that the collaboration violated intelligence oversight rules because there wasnt a signed MOU.

The officer did not respond to an interview request from Military Times and the Tribune.

Within hours of the report, Tyler argued with state intelligence officials again over the legal authorities that allowed state active duty soldiers to work with federal agencies. In an April 3, 2022, email, he claimed that National Guard Bureau intelligence oversight procedures dont apply to Operation Lone Star.

But then, in late May 2022, Hacks team at the FBI El Paso field office allegedly used classified systems that were not authorized and sent classified FBI intelligence back to Operation Lone Star, according to an internal Texas Guard incident report.

A service member from the mission said the incident occurred on May 24, and the internal report said that state intelligence officials discovered it May 26.

Fallout

Within days of the alleged spill, the Texas Guard suspended Tylers security clearance, and investigators came calling, according to emails he sent in June 2022. The lieutenant colonel told investigators he thought they were misled and misinformed, arguing that any transgressions were born of confusion.

Hacks military personnel record was flagged for administrative investigation on June 2, 2022, the day of the incident report, and he was sent home from the border mission. Flagged troops are blocked from awards, promotions or other favorable personnel actions.

Classified document spills can be punished as criminal offenses, but theyre often quietly handled via administrative means, according to German, a fellow at the Brennan Center. He decried the practice.

If youre not going to get in trouble for breaking the rules, and you have a very important issue, the rules arent going to be a very strong bulwark against that kind of abuse, he said.

Its not clear whether Hack has faced any formal discipline in either his military or civilian careers. The FBI, through an unnamed spokesperson, refused to comment on Hack or his status.

The FBI takes the unauthorized removal, retention or transmission of sensitive information, whether classified or unclassified, very seriously and will continue its commitment to prevent any mishandling of sensitive information, the bureau said.

Rios and Tyler were sent home from Operation Lone Star in fall 2022 amid the investigations, they confirmed to Military Times and the Tribune.

According to the partial summary of the investigative report Rios provided, the inspector general substantiated intelligence oversight violations by at least Pierre and Rios. The officer received the document, a summary of adverse information in a restricted Army database, because the investigations findings blocked his promotion to lieutenant colonel. Military Times and the Tribune could not independently confirm whether other officers had adverse findings.

But it was nearly a year before Tyler, Rios and Pierre also received administrative investigation flags on their military personnel records in May 2023  one day after Rios emailed a Texas Military Department general to ask why his promotion had been blocked. Tyler and Rios also confirmed that their security clearances are suspended.

The three anonymous service members who spoke with Military Times and the Tribune said their experience left them disillusioned. They lost faith in the Texas National Guards ability to ethically execute its missions.

If theyre willing to compromise their integrity over something like that, one soldier asked, who knows where theyll stop?

Border Patrol agents patrol the Rio Grande in Eagle Pass on Nov. 8, 2021. Credit: Veronica G. Cardenas for ProPublica/The Texas Tribune

A second service member said hes fearful that other states might use federally trained intelligence troops in state-run intelligence operations unless the federal government makes an example out of Texas.

You give intel soldiers enough tools  were violating many constitutional rights very quickly, he added.

The third was shaken by what he felt was a failure by Texas National Guard leaders to use its intelligence troops in a legal and effective manner.

The service member said a Guards member from the border intel directorate had volunteered to build a tool to track the Rio Grandes water flow and alert leaders when conditions were unsafe for migrants and soldiers alike, but it was deemed not important. Spc. Bishop Evans, a 22-year-old Guard member from Arlington, drowned trying to save two migrants in April 2022.

And thats the frustrating thing about this, he said. We did all this shit, we broke all these rules. And for

He trailed off.

The full program is now LIVE for the 2023 Texas Tribune Festival, happening Sept. 21-23 in Austin. Explore the program featuring more than 100 unforgettable conversations coming to TribFest. Panel topics include the biggest 2024 races and whats ahead, how big cities in Texas and around the country are changing, the integrity of upcoming elections and so much more. See the full program.

Correction, Aug. 30, 2023 at 3:49 p.m. : In a previous version of this story, a helicopter was incorrectly identified in a photo caption as belonging to Customs and Border Protection. It is the property of the Texas Department of Public Safety.
Joint cultural show held to celebrate 65th anniversary of Cambodia-China diplomatic ties

Xinhua) 10:59, August 29, 2023

PHNOM PENH, Aug. 29 (Xinhua) -- A joint cultural show was held here to celebrate the 65th anniversary of the Cambodia-China diplomatic relations, attracting thousands of spectators.

Held at the Diamond Island's Grand Theater on Monday night, the event was jointly performed by a troupe of Chinese artists from Southwest China's Yunnan Province and a team of Cambodian artists from the Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts.

Speaking at the opening ceremony of the show, Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister and Cabinet Minister Vongsey Visoth said the show was a testament to the promotion of cultural and tourism exchanges between the two countries.

"China is a great friend who has helped Cambodia protect and develop our national heritage," he said.

He added that China has actively engaged in the restoration and preservation of Cambodia's cultural heritage sites through providing grant aid for the restoration of the Chau Say Tevoda temple, the Ta Keo temple, and the Royal Palace of the Angkor Thom in the Angkor Archeological Park in Siem Reap province and the Preah Vihear temple in Preah Vihear province, among others.

Meanwhile, Visoth highlighted that the China-proposed Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) has played an important role in boosting infrastructure connectivity, economics, trade, investment and people-to-people exchange between the two countries in a journey towards building a Cambodia-China community with a shared future.

He said Chinese major investment projects in Cambodia under the BRI included the Sihanoukville Special Economic Zone, the Phnom Penh-Sihanoukville Expressway, the Phnom Penh-Bavet Expressway, the Siem Reap-Angkor international airport, the Morodok Techo National Stadium and two friendship hospitals, among others.

"Chinese investment and aid have greatly contributed to the socioeconomic development and the improvement of people's livelihoods and well-being in Cambodia," Visoth said.

Chinese Ambassador to Cambodia Wang Wentian said amity between peoples is the key to the relationship between countries.

"China attaches great importance to cultural exchanges and people-to-people interactions between the two nations," he said at the opening ceremony.

The ambassador said over the past 65 years, China and Cambodia have helped each other and shared weal and woe.

"Our relationship has withstood the test of time and evolving international landscape, growing from strength to strength," Wang said. "It has become a model for jointly building a new type of international relations and building a community with a shared future for mankind."

During the two-hour glittering cultural show, Chinese artists presented ethnic songs and dances, while Cambodian artists performed classical blessing dance, mask dance and folk songs.

Each of the performances had drawn hearty rounds of applause from the audience.

Keang Mouyhea, a 16-year-old student at the Secondary School of Fine Arts, said it was a splendid and colorful show, as all artists are very professional and talented.

"The show has helped us to know better about the unique cultures of Cambodia and China," she told Xinhua.

"The Chinese artists had performed well together and their gestures were vivid and interesting," she added.

Ean Rithysak, a 19-year-old student at the Royal University of Fine Arts, said it was his first time to see Chinese cultural show by his own eyes.

"The show not only helps promote Cambodia-China cultural ties, but also increase people-to-people bond of friendship," he told Xinhua.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
In a second-floor courtroom in Kaufman County last week, a judge listened to nearly 10 hours of debate over the fate of a ranchers herd of 400 whitetail deer.

On one side of the courtroom, rancher Robert Williams sat with his attorneys; his supporters filled six rows of benches behind him. On the other side, attorneys for the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department.

Scores of deer on Williams ranch east of Dallas have tested positive for a contagious and fatal disease called chronic wasting disease. CWD is in the same family as mad cow disease and scrapie, but its specific to deer. Because of the herds positive tests, the state says the deer need to be killed  but those plans have been repeatedly thwarted by Williams and his attorney Jennifer Riggs.

Typically, Parks and Wildlife would depopulate a herd with significant numbers of CWD positives long before it reached the scale of the outbreak at Williams farm, RW Trophy Ranch. The state has the right to do that, its lawyers contend, because breeders agreed to the states rules when they obtained permits and because whitetail deer are technically wild animals. In Texas, wild animals are property of the state, even as ranchers buy and sell the animals, breed them and hunt them.

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But in a case that may be the first of its kind, Williams is suing the Parks and Wildlife Department for fuller ownership rights of his deer, which includes the right to decide whether they live after testing positive for CWD. Even after the case was filed, though, the state continued to issue depopulation orders for the farm, which forced Williams and his attorney to scramble for restraining orders.

In last weeks hearing, Judge Bobby Rich ruled that the state cannot cull Williams deer while his challenge against the state is still pending. And that means the ranchers case, which has the potential to fundamentally shift property rights in the whitetail deer breeding world, is now scheduled to go to trial early next year.

In this April 2022 file photo, Maree Lou Williams, ranch manager of RW Trophy Ranch east of Dallas, gives snacks to a doe fawn. Deer from the farm tested positive for chronic wasting disease.

Williams daughter Maree Lou Williams , whos in charge of caring for the ranchs deer, said Fridays ruling felt like a little breath. While her deer are protected for now, she still doesnt know what might happen at trial.

Its like  youre still drowning, Maree Lou Williams told the Star-Telegram. Theres this part of me thats like, Would it be better if we just go ahead and drown me now? Or do I try to grasp for another breath of air?

As the case has haltingly moved through hearings, the deer on the ranch have continued to eat, sleep, breed and, according to state data, spread CWD. The ranch now has the largest number of CWD positives ever seen in a Texas breeding facility, according to Dr. Hunter Reed, a wildlife veterinarian for the Parks and Wildlife Department.

And state officials are concerned that the disease could continue to spread, even as the case drags on.

A large outbreak

Williams breeds his whitetail deer with the goal of raising aesthetically pleasing bucks to sell to other breeders or to trophy hunters. The industry as a whole has a direct economic impact of about $350 million per year, according to a 2017 report.

Williams, with his decades of experience, is among the oldest breeders in the state. But in 2021, he was hit with the news that every rancher dreads: One of his deer had tested positive for CWD.

That first positive test came after the February 2021 freeze, when Williams submitted samples of several dead deer for mandatory state testing. Over the past two and a half years, his ranch has turned up many more positives, but Williams has declined CWD containment plans suggested by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. Hes called those plans onerous and punitive, in part because they wouldve required Williams to kill at least some of his deer.

After Williams declined to sign a herd plan, Parks and Wildlife turned instead to a full depopulation plan, intending to kill Williams entire herd in order to prevent the disease from spreading further, including into the free-ranging deer population.

But Williams, through a lawsuit, has done something highly unusual: Hes held the state off of his property and, through temporary restraining orders, prevented the state from killing his CWD-positive herd.

Robert Williams, pictured here at RW Trophy Ranch east of Dallas, has been breeding whitetail deer for more than 35 years. Hes now fighting the state, which wants to kill his herd after more than 100 deer have tested positive for a contagious deer-specific disease.

As the case has wound its way through the court system  including a stop on the front step of the state Supreme Court, which declined to hold a hearing  Williams herd has remained alive.

But at the same time, the CWD outbreak has festered. At Williams farm, there had been 124 positives when the hearing started Aug. 23, which already made it the largest number of positives the state has ever seen in a breeding facility. The number climbed to 125 by the time the hearing wrapped up on Friday, Aug. 25.

Until last weeks court ruling prevented the state from acting on depopulation orders, Parks and Wildlife had repeatedly scheduled kill dates for Williams deer. When Rich granted a temporary injunction to Williams, though, he ensured that the state would halt those actions until a full trial

Parks and Wildlife officials have repeatedly said that, at this point, killing the herd is the only way to keep the outbreak from spreading further, particularly outside of the bounds of Williams farm.

A doe checks on a fawn as others wait for food in this July 2022 file photo from RW Trophy Ranch in North Texas.

The risk

Between the two trial days, the Parks and Wildlife Commission made another move connected to the ranchs CWD outbreak.

The commission, which is an appointed body that oversees the department, on Thursday established a new containment zone in Hunt and Kaufman counties. That new zone enshrines an emergency order that had already been in place in the area after free-ranging deer on a ranch release site tested positive earlier this year.

Containment zones aim to prevent CWD from spreading. Breeders in containment zones are restricted from moving deer, and hunters who harvest any deer in a containment zone are required to have those animals tested for CWD before they take any piece of the animal out of the zone. (There have been no documented cases of CWD harming humans or jumping to humans, but the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advises against eating the meat of a CWD-positive animal.)

[MORE: Two days at a Texas whitetail deer auction]

CWD response and containment is made more difficult because its a slow-moving disease, meaning deer may be infectious long before they show symptoms. The disease, when carried through to its final result, leaves deer looking skeletal, acting disoriented and drooling excessively.

Theres no vaccine or treatment for CWD. Eventually, every deer with CWD will die, although Reed, the wildlife veterinarian, testified that many animals will die first of something else, because of their weakened state.

Williams, for his part, doesnt agree with the states risk evaluation.

This July 2022 file photo shows a buck with velvet antlers in a breeding pen at RW Trophy Ranch in North Texas.

Throughout the last year and a half, the rancher has repeatedly said that CWD is more of a political disease than a real threat and has cast doubt on the legitimacy of the state labs test results. During last weeks hearing, Williams attorney, Jennifer Riggs, told the court that their side believes the states ultimate goal is to run deer breeders out of business.

A witness for Williams side, wildlife biologist consultant Daniel Van Schaik, likened CWD to prostate cancer, in that testing may return positives even in cases where the disease will not develop into a problem until after the hosts death. Van Schaik said Williams deer looked healthy when recently surveyed.

If you dont test, youll never know you have it, Van Schaik told the court.

Testimony from states witnesses and information from the CDC counter this testimony. Additionally, unlike prostate cancer, CWD is contagious.

A 2024 trial date

Last weeks hearing offered a glimpse of the arguments that each side may bring to the trial, which has now been scheduled for Feb. 27, 2024.

By the time of the trial, Williams case will have been in the Kaufman County courts for two years. After holding off the state for this long, Williams has also managed to wait out an old state rule on depopulation costs.

After a new law passed this summer, the state can now waive the cost of depopulations at deer ranches. If the state had killed Williams herd last year, he wouldve been responsible for the cost of the operation. But now, the state would shoulder that cost.

That means that, even if Williams deer are eventually depopulated, the process could be less costly for him  not counting his attorney fees.
Aug. 21 was National Fentanyl Prevention and Awareness Day.

Arizona Gov. Katie Hobbs used the occasion to issue an executive order announcing the continuation of the Arizona Substance Abuse Partnership.

As a social worker, I have seen how important a holistic and comprehensive support system is to those struggling with substance abuse, she said. In order to keep Arizona children and families safe and healthy, we must provide them with the tools they need to do so.

Pity she didnt make her announcement while standing at the border, specifically in front of one of those gates now open along the U.S.-Mexico border.

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As Hobbs was announcing the continuation of her substance abuse council, the New York Post was reporting on the migrants streaming through some of the open floodgates along the border near Lukeville.

Open monsoon floodgates are pictured on the Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument west of Lukeville, Ariz., on Aug. 22, 2023.

Trump's folks opened border floodgates

This, naturally, prompted Arizona Republican legislators to accuse the Biden administration of intentionally leaving the nations back door open.

As reported this week, Biden administration officials have literally opened the floodgates along the Arizona border, welding open 114 massive gates, allowing tens of thousands of illegal crossers into our country each month who are coming from throughout the world, including India, Egypt and China, they said, in calling on Hobbs and Attorney General Kris Mayes to take action to secure the border.

Nowhere in their letter or accompanying news release did they mention that those 12-foot floodgates are opened every year during Arizonas monsoon season, to prevent runoff and debris from damaging the fence.

Or that even the Trump administration opened them.

Still, the Republican legislators have a point.

Think public health: Migrants bussed from the border is not just an immigration crisis

Shouldn't we target cartels at these gates?

Shouldnt somebody be guarding those open floodgates?

Im not so concerned about the migrants, crossing in full view of reporters and searching out a Border Patrol agent in order to request asylum.

Its the people you dont see that we should worry about, the human trash who are infecting our state with enough fentanyl to kill off the country.

The drug is cheap, available and the leading cause of death for Americans ages 18 to 49, according to a Washington Post investigation.

Fentanyl is killing young Americans: 6 out of 10 fake prescription pills are laced with fentanyl. Warn your kids.

Only a fraction of smuggled drugs is stopped

And Arizona has become the gateway to America for these death dealers.

Analysts and activists who keep up with this stuff will tell you that most of the fentanyl seized is being brought into the country, often by U.S. citizens, at legal ports of entry. More than half of the fentanyl pills seized have been in Arizona.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers seized .89 pound of fentanyl between Feb. 28, 2023, to March 6, 2023, at El Paso ports of entry in Texas.

Authorities also acknowledge they are catching only 5% to 10% of the fentanyl being brought into the country.

Which brings me back to those open floodgates, which have been welded open. Do you really think the drug smugglers havent noticed?

Opioid epidemic an American crisis: COVID has been hiding another epidemic. We have to do more for our opioid patients.

Gov. Hobbs shouldn't wait for the feds to act

Forget waiting on President Joe Biden.

If Hobbs really wants to keep Arizona children and families safe and healthy, she should act less like a social worker and more like a governor.

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Order out the National Guard or the Department of Public Safety to guard those open gates until the monsoon season is over and they can be closed.

Surely, any holistic and comprehensive support system for those at risk of dying should start by cutting off the cartels at the pass ... er, floodgate.

Laurie Roberts of the Arizona Republic.

Laurie Roberts is a columnist for The Arizona Republic and azcentral, where this column first ran. Reach Roberts at laurie.roberts@arizonarepublic.com. Follow her on X, formerly known as Twitter, at @LaurieRoberts

You can read diverse opinions from our Board of Contributors and other writers on the Opinion front page, on Twitter @usatodayopinion and in our daily Opinion newsletter. To respond to a column, submit a comment to letters@usatoday.com.

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Border floodgates remain open in Arizona. Why isn't US guarding them?
COSHOCTON  When it comes to senators and representatives in the U.S. Congress, most locals probably feel as though their congressmen are on the moon instead of Washington, D.C., for as much connection as they have to them.

Rep. Troy Balderson (R-Zanesville) has spent the August recess touring his district and making various stops, including a recent roundtable discussion with Coshocton County officials and local stakeholders.

Balderson represents the 12th District of Licking, Fairfield, Knox, Muskingum, Coshocton, Guernsey, Morgan, Perry and Athens counties, as well as portions of Delaware, Holmes and Tuscarawas counties. He currently serves on the House Energy and Commerce Committee. This includes the energy, climate and grid; environmental, manufacturing and critical minerals; and communications and technology subcommittees.

The three C's of Troy Balderson are communication, connection and community. They play into what he's working on, what he finds important and how to get things done on Capital Hill. He knows the Intel chip plant being constructed in Licking County is the shiny object everyone has their eyes on, but there is much more across the district he and others can't lose focus on.

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"We've got to get to these people who have been here 30 to 50 years and gone through the pandemic and start dealing with some of the struggles they've had. But, also to thank them and tell them how grateful we are that they're here and employing our community. We want to make sure they have reassurances that if they have a need they can reach out to us," Balderson said.

Rep. Troy Balderson took the congressional recess to make stop across the 12th Congressional District. One in Coshocton was centered around a Coffee and Commerce event through the Coshocton County Chamber of Commerce. Balderson gave an update from Washington D.C. and took questions from the officials and local stakeholders in attendance.

Funding for community projects is critical

One topic Balderson communicated clearly is how what was once known as earmarks are now being called community projects, which he feels more closely explains what they are and will hopefully get citizens to understand their importance. It's not extra taxes, but getting money already available to where it's needed.

An example of a local community project close to funding finalization is $255,000 to the Coshocton County Engineer's Office to act as a 20% match for a $1.25 million paving project. The rest of the money is coming from a County Surface Transportation Program grant for the resurfacing of County Road 16 in 2026. It was last paved in 2015.

"The majority of people get glued to Fox or CNN or whatever and hear 'earmarks' and say 'they're spending our money, they're blowing it on their little projects.' It's not our projects. It's community projects," Balderson said. "Every community project is money we get for our communities that goes directly there now. It can't go to an agency and sit there in a pot of money. It goes directly to the community it's been designated for."

Rep. Troy Balderson discussed a variety of topics, from community projects to the importance of rural broadband, during a Coffee and Commerce event recently through the Coshocton County Chamber of Commerce.

Rural broadband 'going in the right direction'

One of Balderson's subcommittees is dealing with rural broadband and expanding wireless technology. He said a focus now is to improve mapping accuracy so they know where broadband access is and where it's needed. They're also dealing with changes to pole attachment policies for equipment and partnering with utility co-ops who have experience getting needed services, like electricity, to rural areas.

"There has been some movement in the broadband world. More so than I've seen since I've been in the state legislature. That's important and I think we're going in the right direction," Balderson said.

Coshocton County Commissioners are in the middle of a $5 million broadband project with Ohio TT to give 15,000 residents broadband internet access via American Rescue Plan Act dollars. Other entities, like Spectrum, are also doing similar work in the county. The COVID-19 pandemic demonstrated how vital internet access is in a variety of areas. Balderson knows specific stories of how folks had to deal with the lack of access hits people hard.

"One of the things the pandemic discovered was outreach and lack of outreach we have here. We carried several pieces of legislation dealing with telehealth, giving people who lived in rural communities the ability to do a hospital or doctor's visit on their computer. But, there was a struggle there because they didn't have the connectivity to do that," he said. "The education piece is another. We had students in the congressional district who their parents had to take them to a school building and sit in the parking lot so they had the connectivity to do their homework."

Rep. Troy Balderson talks with Coshocton stakeholders and local officials during a recent roundtable discussion part of a Coffee and Commerce event with the Coshocton County Chamber of Commerce.

Downtown revitalization is 'fantastic'

Balderson recently toured the Selby Building, which is in the middle of a revitalization project by Our Town Coshocton. The goal is to finish needed work and to move in new tenants. Three possible ones have been identified in Standard Power, Central Ohio Technical College and the Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District.

Balderson is trying to find funding for work and also connect OTC Executive Director Lanny Spaulding with developmental partners across his congressional district.

Another connection example is getting Tiffany Swigert, executive director of the Coshocton Port Authority, in talks with other communities who have dealt with lack of housing, which Swigert sees as a big issue with the economic upswing of the area and new people moving in.

"That's one of the biggest things we do," Balderson said of making those district-wide connections.

Along with the downtown revitalization, Balderson is also encouraged by the Conesville Industrial Park taking shape where the American Electric Power plant once stood. He knows what the power plant meant to people inside and outside Coshocton and the area being reborn for industrial use is a major success.

"There's a lot of revitalization going on in Downtown Coshocton and that's going on throughout the 12th Congressional District. There's a lot of revitalization in the downtown areas of these communities. I think it's fantastic," Balderson said.

Leonard Hayhurst is a community content coordinator and general news reporter for the Coshocton Tribune with more than 15 years of local journalism experience and multiple awards from the Ohio Associated Press. He can be reached at 740-295-3417 or llhayhur@coshoctontribune.com. Follow him on Twitter at @llhayhurst.

This article originally appeared on Coshocton Tribune: Congressman Troy Balderson had roundtable talk in Coshocton
For at least the fourth year in a row, U.S. News & World Report ranked three Lexington high schools among the top 20 public high schools in Kentucky.

In the outlets 2023 Best High School rankings, Lexingtons Paul Laurence Dunbar High School was ranked No. 9, Henry Clay High School was No. 11 and Lafayette High School No. 12.

Statewide, in independent school districts, Paintsville High School was ranked No. 15 and Pikeville High School was ranked No. 16.

DuPont Manual High School in Louisville was listed as No. 1 in the state in the rankings released Tuesday. It was also No. 1 in 2022.

Nearly 18,000 public high schools were evaluated at the national, state and local level in the 2023 rankings.

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This years rankings showcase the schools whose students demonstrate outstanding outcomes, including achieving high graduation rates, a U.S. News release said.

Having access to a strong high school program is paramount for students as they face an ever-changing world, Liana Loewus, managing editor of education at U.S. News, said in the news release. Making data on our high schools available helps parents ensure their child is in the educational environment that best sets them up to thrive.
Pilots Vyacheslav Minka, Andriy Pilshchikov and Serhiy Prokazin died as a result of a plane crash in the Zhytomyr region

Three air force pilots who tragically lost their lives in a plane collision in Zhytomyr Oblast have been posthumously nominated for state honors, Lieutenant General Mykola Oleshchuk, Commander of the Ukrainian Air Force announced on Telegram on Aug. 29.

Read also: Famous Ukrainian fighter pilot Juice dies in tragic crash

According to a directive issued by the Air Force Commander, the following ranks were also posthumously awarded to the pilots:

Major Vyacheslav Minka was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel.

Major Serhiy Prokazin was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel.

Captain Andriy Pilshchykov (callsign Juice) was promoted to the rank of Major.

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A tragic aviation catastrophe occured in Zhytomyr Oblast on Aug. 25. While carrying out a critical combat mission, two L-39 training-combat aircraft collided mid-air, leading to the loss of all three pilots lives.

Read also: Charity supporting Ukrainian pilots to be renamed in honor of legendary fighter pilot Juice

The pilots who died served as combat pilots with the 40th Brigade of the Center Tactical Aviation Command.

An investigation is underway to ascertain the circumstances surrounding the accident, and the State Investigation Bureau has initiated a criminal inquiry into the catastrophe. The investigation is exploring three potential scenarios:

Technical malfunction of the aircraft.

Pilot error.

Violations during flight organization.

Adriy Pilshchykov, a MiG-29 fighter jet pilot, was a key member of the 40th Brigade of Tactical Aviation. He played a pivotal role in the aerial defense of Kyiv during the initial phases of the full-scale Russian invasion of Ukraine in 2022.

Read also: Three potential causes for deadly Zhytomyr air disaster being investigated, says SBI

The pilot known as Juice is renowned for his instrumental efforts in procuring Western F-16 fighter jets for Ukraine. He went to the United States for training and assessment, and fervently advocated the transfer of these aircraft, participating in numerous interviews on the subject with Western media outlets.

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
MEMPHIS, Tenn.  Members of the Tennesse Task Force 1 will deploy Tuesday to help aid those who might be harmed by Hurricane Idalia.

Idalia now a hurricane, with dangerous storm surges forecast for Floridas Gulf Coast

According to the Memphis Fire Department, 45 responders, including firefighters, paramedics, doctors, engineers and canine teams, are headed to Atlanta, Georgia.

They will be responsible for Urban Search and Rescue efforts. The crews will leave from the USAR Warehouse on Academy Drive.

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MFD says the length of the tour is uncertain, and cell phone service may be compromised. They will provide details as they become available.

Idalia became a hurricane on Tuesday, threatening to bring deadly storm surges and dangerous winds to Floridas Gulf Coast after lashing Cuba with heavy rain.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WREG.com.
Former White House chief of staff Mark Meadows testified for nearly four hours on Monday as he seeks to get his Fulton County charges moved to federal court.

Meadows in what experts called a "high-risk gamble" took the stand himself during an evidentiary hearing before U.S. District Judge Scott Jones, arguing that his post-election efforts on behalf of Trump were part of his official duties. Meadows is seeking to move the case to federal court, where he may draw a more favorable judge and jury pool and can argue that he is immune from state-level charges if his actions fell under his official duties. District Attorney Fani Willis has argued that Meadows' actions violated the Hatch Act, which prohibits political activity by federal employees, which undercuts his defense.

Meadows testified that being chief of staff was a 24/7 job, arguing that his election-related activities were related to his job advising Trump, according to CNN.

New York University Law Prof. Ryan Goodman detailed key parts of Meadows' testimony, warning that he made some incriminating admissions on the stand.

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Meadows testified that he recommended Trump reach out to Georgia Secretary of State Chief Investigator Frances Watson, on which Trump falsely claimed that he won the state by "hundreds of thousands of votes."

"In his own words, that is an incriminating admission that he recommended Trump make the call to Watson that is part of the alleged conspiracy," Goodman wrote on X, formerly Twitter.

Meadows also acknowledged that he had "no reason to doubt" then-Attorney General Bill Barr's conclusion that the fraud claims were meritless.

"Meadows adds that he believed at the time 'further investigation' was still warranted. That's not enough to help him," Goodman wrote, arguing that he believes "Meadows in some respects has even more criminal exposure than Trump."

3. More trouble for Meadows.



He admits he "had no reason to doubt Mr. Barr's" assessment that the fraud allegations were meritless.



Meadows adds that he believed at the time further investigation was still warranted. That's not enough to help him.https://t.co/BSeoC1IPnE  Ryan Goodman (@rgoodlaw) August 28, 2023

Meadows later testified that he set up Trump's infamous call to Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger to find a "less-litigious way of resolving" the fraud concerns but claimed he could not remember details for arranging for attorney Cleta Mitchell and two other Trump campaign lawyers to be on the call.

"I think he is toast," Goodman predicted.

9. Meadows who has testified he was the gatekeeper now says he can't recall details of arranging for Cleta Mitchell and two other Trump Campaign lawyers to be on the Raffensperger call.



I think he is toast tbh.https://t.co/WexpJod3Jj pic.twitter.com/MJj6MgSWsC  Ryan Goodman (@rgoodlaw) August 28, 2023

Marc Short, who served as a top adviser to former Vice President Mike Pence, rejected Meadows' claim on Monday that he was acting in his official capacity.

"If that was true, then why was he circumventing all the White House counsel's advice? Why wasn't Pat Cipollone involved? ... Why wasn't DOJ involved?" he questioned. "Instead, Mark recruited outside lawyers [to] whom he wanted to listen. And so I think that undercuts the notion that 'this was all part of my federal responsibility,'" he added.

Heres Marc Short on CNN debunking Mark Meadowss defense in the Georgia case and then debunking Trumpworlds defense of the Raffensperger call pic.twitter.com/YEdy69SMa0  Aaron Rupar (@atrupar) August 28, 2023

"Meadows' position boils down to a claim that if Trump robbed a bank while president and Meadows helped him, that would be part of his official duties as chief of staff because his job was to help Trump with whatever he was doing," wrote Randall Eliason, a professor at the George Washington University Law School. "I don't think that's gonna fly."

Want a daily wrap-up of all the news and commentary Salon has to offer? Subscribe to our morning newsletter, Crash Course.

Legal experts argued Meadows' risk may not have paid off as he hoped.

"I do think this was a rough day for Mark Meadows," CNN legal analyst Elie Honig said Monday, according to Mediaite. "I think it's one thing to assert generally, 'Well, as chief of staff I had broad duties.' But it's another thing to be cross-examined as he was today about very specific actions and phone calls and to sort of justify that within the scope of the chief of staff's job."

Georgia State Law Prof. Anthony Michael Kreis told the network that Meadows "had a very hard time today in trying to make a case."

Though Meadows tried to offer a sweeping job description for his duties, he "didn't really have a very good answer" when prosecutors questioned why he offered Trump campaign cash to speed up an election audit, why he coordinated the Raffensperger call and other meetings between campaign officials and fake electors, and why he did not bring in the DOJ to investigate, Kreis explained.

"He had a really tough time today. I think Brad Raffensperger made it even tougher when he came in to court and basically said that there was no lawful outcome to change the election," he added. "So it was a pretty tough day. That said, it's a low threshold for Mark Meadows to show in order to have this removed to federal court."

Heres my overview of todays hearing for Mark Meadows. He tried to offer a sweeping job description to the court to suggest federal removal is reasonable and appropriate, but he stumbled over a lot, too. On the whole, it wasnt a great day for Meadows on the stand at all. #gapol pic.twitter.com/vJnJSeUDiZ  Anthony Michael Kreis (@AnthonyMKreis) August 29, 2023

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about Mark Meadows
A 19-year-old college student was fatally shot at her familys home in Georgia, police say.

Khia Shields of Wrens, Georgia, was killed shortly after 1 a.m. Aug. 26, Wrens police said in a news release.

Police said they received a call about a gunshot wound. When they arrived, police said they found Shields had been shot at least once.

She was rushed to Augusta University for medical treatment, where she died of her injuries, police said.

Yall really took my baby away, Shieldss mother, Shareka Pitts wrote on Facebook.

Pitts told WJBF her daughter was asleep on the couch. In the middle of the night, she came into her mothers bedroom with gunshot wounds, she told the news outlet.

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She had her hands held out like, mommy, mommy, Im shot, Pitts told the news station.

Shields was a student at Georgia Southern University in Statesboro and was entering her sophomore year, her mother said. The university is offering counseling to students and the community.

I was very saddened to hear about Khia Shieldss passing and the tragic circumstances that I understand led to her death, Shay Little, the vice president for student affairs, said in an email to McClatchy News. While I did not know her personally, it tears at my heart to hear of a 19-year-old whose bright future has been cut short. We have notified her faculty and other officials on campus and, as always, our staff and our counseling center are prepared to help our University community where needed.

Pitts described her daughter as a warm, spirited person.

She wanted to be a teacher. But little kids always latched on to her for some reason, all the kids that she was around and like her God Son, even her cousins, she was just that person that they would latch to that they will connect with, she told WRDW.

Khia was a loving person! Pitts wrote on Facebook. We gotta put these guns down.

The Walmart where Shields worked created a memorial display for her, and a GoFundMe is being organized to help with funeral arrangements and to go toward a reward for information.

Some people on social media were frustrated by gun violence in the area that police said led to Shieldss death. Police, however, said they will continue to search for answers. The Georgia Bureau of Investigations is also investigating the shooting, Wrens police said.

The sad part is, there are people walking around day and night in Wrens, who know the entire story and who pulled the trigger and they refuse to testify, police said on Facebook. We are already following up with great leads on this murder.

Jefferson County, where Wrens is located, has experienced other recent shootings. Five people were injured in a drive-by shooting on Aug. 20, eventually prompting the sheriffs office to announce a $5,000 reward on Aug. 28 leading to the arrest and conviction of individuals responsible for recent gun violence occurring in Jefferson County.

Special Agent in charge Patrick Morgan told WJBF the recent gun violence could be gang-related.

It appears to us that this is some type of gang associated violence thats going on, Morgan told WJBF. Were trying to get a handle on that and conduct several investigations that date back a couple of months that we think are all tied to the incidents that have taken place recently.

Wrens is about 130 miles southeast of Atlanta.

College student found dead during wellness check, NC cops say. Probe into death begins

This North Carolina high school ranks as the best in the nation. Heres why

69-year-old on morning walk shot and killed by man out on probation, Georgia cops say

Driver tries to hit teens playing ding dong ditch, then chokes one of them, GA cops say
A new school has emerged as the top-ranked public high school in the Triangle in addition to being rated one of the best schools in the nation.

Wake STEM Early College in Cary dethroned Raleigh Charter High School in the U.S. News & World Report 2023-24 Best High Schools rankings released early Tuesday. Both schools were also the only ones in the Triangle to make the top 500 in the new rankings.

Raleigh Charter had perennially been the highest-ranked school in Raleigh and the Triangle. But Wake STEM was usually right behind Raleigh Charter before overtaking it this year.

Wake STEM focuses on science, technology, engineering and math. Its an early college, meaning students can graduate in five years with both a high school diploma and up to two years of college credit from N.C. State University.

Wake STEM Early College High School held a ribbon-cutting ceremony for its new building in Cary on April 18, 2022. U.S. News & World Report named it the top public high school in the Triangle in 2023.

Greensboro school named best in country

But the ranking for the top U.S. public high school went to The Early College at Guilford in Greensboro.

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Guilford County was the only North Carolina school district with multiple schools in the top 500 nationally. It has two schools in the top 50 and another at 173rd.

More than a fifth of North Carolinas high schools (22%) ranked in the top 25% nationally. That put North Carolina 25th nationally after being tied for 28th last year.

U.S. News ranked 17,860 public high schools based on college readiness, proficiency on state exams, performance on state exams, performance of underserved students, college curriculum breadth and graduation rates.

Having access to a strong high school program is paramount for students as they face an ever-changing world, said Liana Loewus, managing editor of education at U.S. News, in a news release. Making data on our high schools available helps parents ensure their child is in the educational environment that best sets them up to thrive

U.S. News has been rating high schools since 2007.

The rankings were based on the 2020-21 school year, when students received a limited amount of in-person instruction due to the pandemic. The U.S. Department of Education required states to resume giving standardized tests that school year after having waived them in the 2019-20 school year.

Depending on how many students took the test in a state, either 2018-19 or 2020-21 data was used or an average of the two years.

RTI International, a research firm based in Research Triangle Park, crunched the numbers for the 2023 list.

Top Raleigh metro area schools

The top 10 schools in the Raleigh-Cary metro area (which includes Wake, Johnston and Franklin counties) are:

 Wake STEM Early College High School in Cary (No. 4 in North Carolina and No. 118 nationally)

 Raleigh Charter High School (No. 5 in the state and No. 133 nationally)

 Panther Creek High School in Cary (No. 12 in the state and No. 592 nationally)

 Crossroads FLEX High School in Cary (No. 20 in the state and No. 704 nationally)

 Green Hope High School in Cary (No. 26 in the state and No. 753 nationally)

 Enloe High School in Raleigh (No. 30 in the state and No. 1,084 nationally)

 Wake Young Womens Leadership Academy in Raleigh (No. 31 in the state and No. 1,093 nationally)

 Apex Friendship High School (No. 32 in the state and No. 1,094 nationally)

 North Wake College and Career Academy in Wake Forest (No. 39 in the state and No. 1,329 nationally)

 Longleaf School of the Arts in Raleigh (No. 40 in the state and No. 1,363 nationally)

Top Durham-Chapel Hill schools

The top 10 schools in the Durham-Chapel Hill metro area (which includes Durham, Orange, Chatham, Granville and Person counties) are:

 Woods Charter School in Chapel Hill (No. 9 in the state and No. 511 nationally)

 Research Triangle High School in Durham (No. 22 in the state and No. 731 nationally)

 East Chapel Hill High School (No. 24 in the state and No. 734 nationally)

 Chapel Hill High School (No. 25 in the state and No. 745 nationally)

 Durham School of the Arts (No. 35 in the state and No. 1,303 nationally)

 Carrboro High School (No. 42 in the state and No. 1,437 nationally)

 Oxford Preparatory School in Oxford (No. 46 in the state and No. 1,528 nationally)

 Eno River Academy in Hillsborough (No. 52 in the state and No. 1,727 nationally)

 City of Medicine Academy in Durham (No. 70 in the state and No. 2,359 nationally)

 Roxboro Community School (No. 71 in the state and No. 2,374 nationally)

Charter schools make up two of the top 10 schools in the Raleigh list and five of the top 10 in the Durham list.

Charter schools are taxpayer-funded schools that are exempt from some of the rules that traditional public schools must follow. For instance, theyre not required to provide school bus service or participate in the federal school lunch program.

They also have more flexibility in how they spend their money, dont have to follow the school calendar law and dont need all their teachers to be licensed.

Read the full report at www.usnews.com/education/best-high-schools.
The states public health commissioner and a former Centers for Disease Control and Prevention director will come together on Tuesday to donate blood amid new rules that open blood donation to gay and bisexual men.

DPH Commissioner Robbie Goldstein and former CDC Director Rochelle Walensky will both donate blood together to commemorate the recently updated rules enabling many gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men to donate blood, the Massachusetts Department of Public Health said in a statement on Monday.

The two will donate blood together at the Red Cross Dedham Donation Center, officials said.

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In May, the Food and Drug Administration eased restrictions that had previously prohibited many blood donations by gay and bisexual men after years of pressure by the American Medical Association, blood banks and LGBTQ rights groups. This month, the American Red Cross began accepting donations from eligible gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men.

For nearly a decade, Drs. Walensky and Goldstein have worked together to change the policy for blood donation eligibility, advocating that donation criteria should be based on science and risk, and not stigmatize based on sexual orientation, state public health officials said.

Goldstein and Walensky publicly wrote about the issue in 2017, in the wake of the Pulse nightclub shooting, when most gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men were unable to donate blood and help their community in this meaningful way, officials said.

During the past 2 years, when Dr. Walensky led the CDC and Dr. Goldstein worked with her as a senior policy advisor, they continued their efforts to revise eligibility guidelines, officials said.

The two made a pact that when the regulations finally changed, they would donate blood together, officials 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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LAS VEGAS (KLAS)  A Florida man is accused of pulling a child from a resort swimming pool and attempting to lure the boy to a bathroom for sex, according to Las Vegas Metropolitan police documents.

Sheldon Barber faces the following charges:

Kidnapping a minor

Luring a minor to engage in a sex act

Contact with a minor

Police were called to the Grand View Resort on S. Las Vegas Boulevard near Silverado Ranch Boulevard on Saturday, Aug. 26 because a man was loitering and harassing pool guests.

The report stated one guest told an officer that Barber forcefully pulled a child from the pool and asked the child to go with him to the bathroom. Instead, the child, who appeared nervous, got back into the pool.

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Over a period of several hours, police talked with more witnesses.

The childs female cousin told police she was in the pool the previous night and noticed Barber staring at her so she left the pool to go to another area. He followed her and asked her about her age and what she planned to do later which made her uncomfortable so she walked away.

She told police she witnessed Barber the following day walk up to her young cousin who was in the pool and pull him out even though the child resisted, the report said.

The childs mother who was also in the pool helping the boy with swimming collaborated on the story and said when Barber approached the pool, he called her son a mommys boy and then extended his hand as if to shake the boys hand but instead grabbed him and pulled him out of the pool. When the child got back in the pool, the report states he told his mother that Barber wanted him to go to the bathroom.

Another witness told police, that Barber then focused his attention on a little girl, around 4 years old, which was about the same time that security approached him.

Others interviewed informed police that Barber was heard asking women in the pool area if they wanted to go up to his room and even approached a maid and attempted to lure her into a room she was cleaning, the report said.

When officers advised Barber of his rights, he told them to call my lawyer. Police reported they found a sexual enhancement supplement in his clothing.

Barber is due to make his initial appearance on Aug. 29. He is currently out of Clark County Detention Center on bail and was ordered to stay away from the resort property.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KLAS.
TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA)  Idalia strengthened into a Category 1 hurricane early Tuesday and is expected to rapidly intensify in the Gulf of Mexico.

The National Hurricane Center said Idalia is about 275 miles south-southwest of Tampa. The storms winds have increased to 85 mph.

Idalia is forecast to make landfall along the northwest Gulf Coast of Florida sometime on Wednesday as an extremely dangerous Category 3 major hurricane, according to the National Hurricane Center.

Real-time wobble tracker monitoring Hurricane Idalias shifts in Gulf of Mexico

As of the 11 a.m. update, Idalia was over the southeastern Gulf of Mexico, moving north at 14 mph, according to the National Hurricane Center. Idalias track remains west of Tampa Bay.

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Storm surge remains the biggest threat with Idalia, with some areas north of Tampa Bay expected to see 8 to 12 feet of storm surge, with 4 to 9 feet in the Tampa Bay area and 3 to 7 feet south of Tampa Bay.

The storm surge threat is increased thanks to higher-than-normal high tides due to Wednesdays Super Moon.

Do I need to evacuate? Orders issued for several counties ahead of Idalia

A hurricane warning is in effect for most of the Florida Gulf Coast from Gulf County to the south end of Sarasota County, according to the National Hurricane Center.

The outer bands are expected to arrive in the Tampa Bay area in the late afternoon but will become more frequent and intense by midnight. The worst weather will be between Tuesday night and Wednesday afternoon.

Most of the tornados will happen Tuesday night, while the biggest storm surge for the Tampa Bay area will happen Wednesday morning.

Idalia Resources

Watch WFLA Nows 24/7 coverage to stay up-to-date on Idalia. Get the latest on closings and weather conditions in your area on our Tracking the Tropics page.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRN News 2.
The Kansas attorney general's office now has more time to prepare its arguments over gender markers on driver's licenses after arguing that allowing transgender people to be represented will make the case more complex.

Shawnee County District Court Judge Teresa Watson on Monday delayed the various deadlines in the case, in which Attorney General Kris Kobach is suing members of Gov. Laura Kelly's administration over differing interpretations of a new law, Senate Bill 180.

While Kobach views the law as banning transgender people from changing their gender markers, among other things, the Kansas Department of Revenue disagrees. The ACLU has gotten involved to represent the interests of five transgender Kansans.

Kansas attorney general needs more time to prepare

Kansas Attorney General Kris Kobach plans to argue in Shawnee County District Court that the Hodes and Nauser abortion case precedent shouldn't be reason to allow transgender people to change their gender markers on drivers licenses.

Watson has already sided once with Kobach by issuing a temporary restraining order that blocks KDOR from making such changes. The court's next step is to consider a preliminary injunction.

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The previous scheduling order had called for a Nov. 1 hearing date. But after Watson agreed to allow the ACLU to intervene, the attorney general's office requested delaying the hearing until January. Solicitor General Anthony Powell said their original case was "simple" and "straightforward" about the interpretation of SB 180, while the intervenors are making the issues more complex.

"There's transgender litigation going all over the country," he told reporters after Monday's court hearing. "It's mostly under the federal constitution, but this case is under the Kansas Constitution, so it's an issue of first impression. And so we think it's worth taking the time to brief it right for the court so that the court gets it right."

Sharon Brett, legal director of the ACLU of Kansas, disagreed that more time is necessary.

"What we're seeking here is simple at its core," Brett said, "which is the dignity, autonomy and privacy rights of transgender people as protected by the Kansas Constitution."

Brett said the ACLU's arguments won't be a surprise to the attorney general.

"The constitutional avoidance defense that we're raising in this case certainly requires the attorney general to contend with arguments that he did not want to contend with and was not planning on contending with when he filed this mandamus action," she said.

Pedro Irigonegaray, an outside attorney representing the Department of Revenue, said there are 514 people who have qualified to obtain a gender marker change on their driver's license. He contended that further delay risks a lawsuit against the agency, but Powell said he doubts a separate lawsuit would come since the ACLU is already involved in the current case.

Watson sided with the attorney general's office.

Powell said the new deadlines are more in line with brief timelines for appellate courts.

"So we're really not asking for extra time," he said. "We're asking for a standard amount of time."

Abortion case precedent could affect transgender case

Powell said part of the reason the case will be more complex is the intervenors are raising constitutional questions. That includes how to apply the precedent from the Kansas Supreme Court's ruling in the Hodes and Nauser abortion rights case.

"As you might recall, Hodes and Nauser said that we have a constitutional right to personal autonomy," Powell said. "They're making for the first time transgender claims under that provision. It's a case of first impression. We think it's a very serious matter that needs to be adequately addressed."

He said Kobach, who plans to try the case himself, will argue in his briefs that Hodes should not be applied to transgender people.

"This is going to be a serious case and it's probably going to go to the Kansas Supreme Court," said Powell, who is a retired Kansas Court of Appeals judge. "The law is unsettled in this area."

The Supreme Court's ruling has had wider effects than protecting abortion rights. It has been cited as reason to apply strict scrutiny in election law litigation, but it has also been rejected as reason to invalidate the death penalty.

"It's hard to say how far and how wide the Supreme Court is going to deal with this right to personal autonomy," Powell said. "That's going to be fleshed out probably in the next five to a dozen years conceivably. ... This is just another one of those issues that's now coming forward, and we're going have to litigate them one by one and see where the court takes us in terms of drying up and scoping out the right."

Staffing shortages are affecting Kansas attorney general's office

In arguing for more time, Powell told the court that the attorney general's office has limited resources and staffing.

"We've been working hard to try to fill positions," he said. "It's been hard in this economy. ... It's a struggle to find lawyers, and we have a particular need for litigators. So that's a constant battle that we're fighting and unfortunately we're still fighting that, so we're not up to strength."

Powell said staffing shortages were not the primary reason for seeking the extension, and they have not affected his solicitor general's office's ability to meet court deadlines and effectively litigate cases.

More: Kansas Attorney General's Office fighting exodus. Can Kris Kobach turn it around?

Judge will hear arguments as Kansas Legislature returns to Topeka

The new schedule has the hearing set for the first week of the legislative session.

"If there is some sort of backlash to this litigation through the Legislature, the ACLU of Kansas is there as well," Brett said. "We have the backs of transgender Kansans across the state, and there's nothing about this litigation or about the start of the next legislative session that changes that."

The Republican supermajorities in the Legislature have pursued a slate of bills aimed at transgender people. The outcome of this case and others around the country could affect the appetite of legislators for further legislation, such as banning or restricting gender-affirming care.

More: In win for transgender rights advocates, effort to enact Kansas trans health care ban fails

A separate case remains pending in federal court, where Kobach is attempting to reopen an already decided lawsuit where a consent order directed the Kansas Department of Health and Environment to change gender markers on birth certificates for transgender people. That case is awaiting a ruling from the judge on whether to reopen the case.

Brett said the Legislature should pay attention to the legal rulings.

"There are many different issues that the legislature can and should be taking up that would help all Kansans, and these discriminatory attacks on transgender individuals is clearly not one of such issues," she said. "So our hope is that they would come back to the legislative session focused on the issues that are actually affecting Kansans and harming Kansans and work collaboratively across the aisle to develop solutions to those problems, rather than using their political platform as a means to attack transgender individuals."

Jason Alatidd is a statehouse reporter for the Topeka Capital-Journal. He can be reached by email at jtidd@gannett.com. Follow him on Twitter @Jason_Alatidd.

This article originally appeared on Topeka Capital-Journal: Kris Kobach gets more time on Kansas transgender driver's license case
(KTLA)  A convicted felon accused of sneaking into a California home in the middle of the night and touching a 12-year-old girl was being held without bond Monday, according to police.

Around 12:30 a.m., officers were dispatched to a home in Riverside on a report of a possible burglary.

Police said the suspect, Daveon Alvarez, 28, entered the home through an unlocked door and encountered the 12-year-old girl, who was sleeping on the couch.

He touched the girls face, which startled her, and she ran off to alert her family, police said.

Daveon Alvarez

As officers canvassed the neighborhood for witnesses, they learned that Alvarez had been going through cars and fled the home with a set of car keys.

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He was arrested nearby.

Police said Alvarez is a transient from the desert area who was on parole for auto theft. He was booked into jail for what they said was annoying or molesting a child, burglary, attempted auto theft and violating parole.

Great job by the officers for finding this parolee quickly, but a special thanks to the young girl for being brave and providing enough information to put this criminal in jail, police said.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to YourCentralValley.com.
Gov. Ron DeSantis has announced that tolls along Floridas west coast will be suspended due to Hurricane Idalia.

Florida Department of Transportation and Floridas Turnpike Enterprise will suspend tolls beginning at 4 a.m. Tuesday and reinstate them on Sept. 5 at noon.

LIVE UPDATES: Idalia forecast to become major hurricane before landfall, watches and warnings issued

Tolls suspended include:

Hillsborough County

I-4 Connector

Selmon Expressway (S.R. 618)

Veterans Expressway (S.R. 589)

Suncoast Parkway (S.R. 589)

READ: Tracking Idalia: Where you can pick up sandbags in Central Florida

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Citrus, Hernando & Pasco counties

Suncoast Parkway (S.R. 589)

Lake and Sumter counties & portions of Orange County

Turnpike Mainline (I-75 to I-4)

READ: Tropical Storm Idalia: Tolls suspended along Floridas west coast

Pinellas County

Pinellas Bayway (S.R. 679)

Sunshine Skyway Bridge (U.S. 19)

Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live.
Fentanyl continues to be a formidable enemy of health officials, law enforcement, friends and families in the metro-east.

In some ways, the problem has gotten worse, according to Diana Cuddeback, director of Heartlinks Grief Center in Belleville. She contributed to the book Heartbroken: Grief and Hope Inside the Opioid Crisis, which focuses on Madison, St. Clair and surrounding counties.

In 2019, when Heartlinks board member Ellen Krohne self-published the book, she and Cuddeback noted that some drug-related deaths had resulted from people unknowingly using heroin laced with fentanyl.

Now Im seeing (fentanyl) in other drugs, and people are also using it straight  on purpose, Cuddeback said recently.

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Cuddeback leads an Addiction Loss Support Group through Heartlinks, a program of Family Hospice. She formed it in 2016 due to increases in the number of people who had lost loved ones due to drug overdose.

Cuddebacks anecdotally based information matches national data showing that heroin use is down, said Matthew Ellis, associate professor of psychiatry at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, who also contributed to Heartbroken.

Ellis describes four waves of the opioid epidemic: Prescription pain medicine, heroin laced with fentanyl, cocaine and methamphetamine laced with fentanyl and now straight fentanyl sold in pill form.

The drug cartels have shifted away from heroin, he said. Why spend months and months and months cultivating opium poppy fields when you can just create fentanyl in a lab in a few days?

Ellen Krohne, left, wrote and self-published the book, Heartbroken: Grief and Hope Inside the Opioid Crisis. Shes shown in 2019 with contributor Diana Cuddeback. Not pictured is contributor Matthew Ellis.

More potent than morphine

The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration describes fentanyl as a synthetic opioid thats 100 times more potent than morphine as a pain reliever and anesthetic. Its legally manufactured and distributed in the United States.

However, licit fentanyl pharmaceutical products sometimes get diverted via theft, fraudulent prescriptions and illicit distribution by patients, physicians and pharmacists.

Most recent cases of fentanyl-related overdose are linked to illegally made fentanyl, which is distributed through illegal drug markets for its heroin-like effect, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website states.

It is often added to other drugs because of its extreme potency, which makes drugs cheaper, more powerful, more addictive, and more dangerous.

Many national, state and local databases dont differentiate between fentanyl and other opioids when reporting overdose deaths since theyre often mixed, according to Ellis. But in 2021, Madison County Coroner Steve Nonn divided 82 deaths into the following categories :

Fentanyl  19

Fentanyl plus other drugs, including heroin  14

Fentanyl and methamphetamine  33

Fentanyl and methamphetamine plus other drugs  4

Fentanyl and cocaine plus other drugs  5





Prescription opiates  2

Other opioids plus other drugs  4

Methadone and hydrocodone  1

Madison County Coroner Steve Nonn divided opioid overdose deaths by type of drug, including fentanyl and other drugs laced with fentanyl, in his 2021 reporting.

National and regional figures

When Heartbroken was published in 2019, the most recent data showed the Madison County opioid overdose death rate had soared from 8.3 deaths per 100,000 population in 2006 to 32.1 in 2017, when 82 people died of opioid overdoses. That compared to 21 people in St. Clair County.

Updated figures on opioid overdose death rates (deaths per 100,000 population) show a worsening situation for most of the following:

United States  14.9 in 2017; 24.7 in 2021

Illinois  17.2 in 2017; 23.7 in 2021

Missouri  16.5 in 2017; 27.1 in 2021

Madison County  32.1 in 2017; 29.3 in 2021

St. Clair County  8.8 in 2017; 26.7 in 2021

City of St. Louis  60.3 in 2017; 90.01 in 2021

St. Louis County  27.6 in 2017; 36.4 in 2021

The Madison County rate decreased slightly, leading it to be ranked 10th in the state. It was first in 2015.

A total of 77 people died of opioid overdoses in Madison County in 2021, according to the Illinois Department of Public Health. That number is slightly lower than Nonns list of 82 deaths cited earlier, probably due to differences in reporting parameters, Ellis said.

The number of people who died from opioid overdoses in St. Clair County went from 21 in 2017 to 69 in 2021, causing its rate to more than triple.

Its hard to say whats driving that, Ellis said. Its possible that Madison County has had a better response in terms of EMS using naloxone to revive people. .... It also may be theres just a greater influx (of drugs) in St. Clair County.

Naloxone is a medication designed to rapidly reverse opioid overdose that can be administered via nasal spray or injection. Some people call it Narcan because that was the first brand name.

Clayton Augustine, right, poses with his parents, Debbie and Robert Augustine, clockwise from top left, his grandmother, Marlene Augustine, son Nolan and fiance Sarah Lamonica before he died of a drug overdose in 2021.

Case led to homicide charge

In recent years, one of the most notable fentanyl-related cases in southeastern Illinois involved Clayton Augustine, 27, of Waterloo, an engaged father of an infant son. He died from an overdose in 2021.

His mother, Debbie Augustine, described him as addicted but working hard at recovery. She partly blamed his death on his drug dealer, Derek Dillion, now 36, a family friend who formerly lived in Columbia.

Dillon pleaded guilty last year to drug-induced homicide, a Class X felony, in Monroe County Circuit Court. He received a six-year prison sentence, which Debbie Augustine thought was too light.

I dont think thats setting a good precedent, she said at the time. This is the first case like this in Monroe County. If it happens again, what are (drug dealers who kill people) going to get? Six years?

TV station ABC7 Chicago reported last year that more collar counties, including DeKalb, DuPage, Kane and particularly McHenry, were filing drug-induced homicide charges against street dealers and other suppliers considered responsible for overdose deaths.

Chicago police detectives had started training on how to build cases through digital evidence and autopsy reports.

The TV station talked to retired gang crimes officer Terry Almanza, who had pushed for such efforts after losing her teenage daughter to a drug overdose in 2015. She now is a national activist and founder of the clearinghouse website DrugInducedHomicide.org.

We need to send a message to these drug dealers that, No more. They are going to be held accountable. If you are out there peddling this poison, youre going to jail, Almanza said.

A used package of Narcan lies on the ground in East St. Louis on Aug. 22. Narcan is a brand of naxolone, a medication designed to rapidly reverse overdose of fentanyl, heroin and other opioids.

Money coming for treatment

One positive development, according to local experts, is that Illinois counties have started receiving money from settlements that corporations agreed to after being sued for helping to cause a national opioid epidemic.

In 2021, a coalition of state attorneys general settled with drug distributors McKesson, Cardinal Health and AmerisourceBergen for $21 billion over 18 years and manufacturer Janssen Pharmaceuticals and its parent company, Johnson & Johnson, for $5 billion over nine years.

Last year, some states settled with pharmacy chains CVS, Walgreens and Walmart and two more manufacturers, Allergan and Teva.

There is money coming into counties and communities and touching people who are struggling with opioid addiction, said Jane Nesbit, executive director of the St. Clair County Mental Health Board.

So far, that board has received more than $536,000 in settlement funds through Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raouls office. The Madison County Mental Health Board has received about $840,000.

The boards are distributing the money to agencies and organizations that provide drug treatment and recovery services.

In St. Clair County, that includes Chestnut Health Systems, Treatment Alternatives for Safe Communities (TASC) and the Comprehensive Behavior Health Center. Madison County is giving grants to Chestnut, Amare, Alton Memorial Hospital and the Madison County Sheriffs Department.

We are investing our funds in evidence-based practices and recovery-support specialists, said Deborah Humphrey, executive director of the Madison County Mental Health Board. They have shown that they work.

Krohne, the Heartbroken author, hopes officials will also work to expand availability of naloxone.

People should have it in their homes, particularly if theyre taking legally prescribed opioids, she said. A child could get into them. Schools should have Narcan  really anyplace that people gather. Its like a defibrillator. It can bring people back.
By Jasper Ward

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Attorney Sidney Powell, one of former U.S. President Donald Trump 's 18 co-defendants in the Georgia 2020 election subversion case, has waived a formal arraignment and pleaded not guilty, a court filing on Tuesday showed.

Other Trump allies, Trevian Kutti and Ray Smith, have also waived formal arraignment and entered not guilty pleas.

The former president is scheduled to be arraigned on Sept. 6 as Fulton County prosecutors eye an October start to the trial.

The Fulton County has charged Trump with 13 felony counts including racketeering for pressuring state officials to reverse his 2020 election loss and setting up an illegitimate slate of electors to undermine the formal congressional certification of Democratic President Joe Biden's victory.

The latest charges marks Trump's fourth indictment since launching his reelection campaign for president.

(Reporting by Jasper Ward; Editing by Susan Heavey and Lisa Shumaker)
Donald Trump has made split-screen history as the first former president and White House candidate to also face civil and criminal prosecution.

Trump so far faces almost 100 felony charges in four different cases, two in the federal court system and two in state courts. That doesn't include a pair of civil cases, both in New York.

Even so, Trump has adamantly insisted he will carry out a presidential campaign. He often waves the myriad of polls showing his wide, double-digit percentage point leads over his Republican rivals. But surveys of non-GOP voters show his support dropping, too, in the wake of the charges.

Here is a calendar of Trump's scheduled trial dates juxtaposed against key primaries and caucuses coming up in 2024.

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2024 politics: Palm Beach County lawyer files legal challenge to disqualify Trump from 2024 presidential race

In 2023 ...

OCT. 2: Civil trial into the Trump Organization in New York state.

OCT. 23: One of Trump's 18 co-defendants in the Georgia election interference case, lawyer Kenneth Chesebro, goes on trial. That is part of the indictments lodged against Trump for allegedly seeking to overturn Georgia's 2020 vote count.

Trump indictment: Vote-changing satellites and Justice Dept. pressure campaign: How Trump spent Christmas 2020

In 2024 ...

JAN. 15: Trump due back in court for another round of litigation with writer E. Jean Carroll, who has accused Trump of defaming her.

JAN. 15: Iowa Republicans primary season kickoff caucus.

JAN. 29: A civil class action trial is scheduled against Trump and his company. They are accused of promoting a pyramid scheme.

FEB. 6: New Hampshire primary

FEB. 24: Key primary in South Carolina

FEB. 27: Key primary in Michigan

Former President Donald Trump walks to speak with reporters after appearing before a judge in Atlanta on Aug. 24.

MARCH 4: Trial set to begin on the four-count indictment against Trump by special counsel Jack Smith in the case related to the violence at the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, and the attempt to stop the counting of electoral votes.

MARCH 5: Super Tuesday.

MARCH 19: Florida presidential primary voting.

MARCH 25: Criminal trial against Trump stemming from an alleged hush money payment to a porn star is to begin in New York state.

MAY 20: Possession of classified documents trial.

MAY 21-JUNE 4: Four states, including New Jersey and the District of Columbia, will hold primaries.

JULY 15-18: Republican National Convention in Milwaukee

NOV. 5: Election Day

Antonio Fins is a politics and business editor at the Palm Beach Post, part of the USA TODAY Florida Network. You can reach him at afins@pbpost.com. Help support our journalism. Subscribe today.

This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: List of key Trump court dates and campaign primaries scheduled in 2024
A recording of the Jan. 2, 2021, phone call during which Donald Trump asked Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger to help him find 11,780 votes became public almost immediatelyand was just as quickly compared to the smoking gun tapes that helped bring down the Nixon presidency. Fair enough! With all due respect to storing classified documents in a resort bathroom, telling a local official to invalidate the precise number of votes that would be required to change the outcome of the election is the thing Trump has done with the most pronounced I dont think you can do that feel.

The call is back in the news this week thanks to former White House chief of staff Mark Meadows , who testified Monday in a Georgia hearing related to the Fulton County district attorneys allegations that he was part of Trumps criminal conspiracy to overturn the 2020 election. Meadows is seeking to have his case moved from state court to federal court on the grounds that he is being prosecuted for activities that he undertook in his official capacity. Hes hoping that claim could secure him a more favorable jury pool (itd be drawn from the more conservative northern district of Georgia as a whole, rather than just Democratic-leaning Fulton County) or, if the judge in his case is sufficiently convinced that Meadows was legally fulfilling executive-branch duties, an outright dismissal of charges.

According to Vox, the judge who listened to Meadows argument on Monday appeared skeptical. There are many problems with the case, but part of the gist is that White House employees are prohibited by law from attempting to influence the outcome of elections, and Meadows can be shown to have known that. As such, one of the things the former chief of staff argued in court on Monday was that he didnt realize his late 2020 activities were related to partisan campaign efforts to overturn the electioni.e., that he didnt understand the connection between President Donald Trumps interest in vote-counting procedures in Georgia (and Michigan) and candidate Donald Trumps ongoing efforts to reverse the results of voting in those states. From the Washington Post:

On several occasions, Mark Meadows claimed to have no knowledge of the Trump campaigns efforts to contest the election results. On Donald Trumps phone call with Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger, on Jan. 2, 2021, which Meadows participated in, he said he did not know that three lawyers on the callCleta Mitchell, Kurt Hilbert and Alex Kaufmanhad participated in a campaign lawsuit against Raffensperger.

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(Meadows said he didnt remember how Mitchell, a prominent voter-fraud conspiracy theorist with whom hed previously been in contact, had ended up on the Georgia call.)

In addition, when questioned about an Oval Office meeting he attended with Trump and Michigan state lawmakers, Meadows said he didnt know that the campaign was contesting the results in that state.

According to Meadows testimony, he believed at the time that he was advancing the executive branchs interest in accurate and fair elections and helping resolve Trumps concerns about voter fraud in order to eliminate a roadblock to the transfer of powerin other words, that he did not understand, in January 2021, that Donald Trump was involved in election litigation for selfish reasons. (A recent New York Times piece that documents Meadows history of vacantly telling whomever he was talking to exactly what they wanted to hear suggests, troublingly, that this might actually be true.)

Meadows claims are similar to the one that Trump has made about his own behavior in 2020that he believed the election was rigged against him as a matter of objective fact, meaning that his actions were reasonable attempts to secure the correct outcome. In his telling, the smoking gun was in fact a perfect phone call.

This line of reasoning was reintroduced to circulation by right-wing law professor Jonathan Turley on Fox News after the Fulton County indictments were announced:

You know, it makes perfect sense when youre challenging an election to say, You know, I only need around 11,000 votes. So if you do a statewide review, thats not a lot in a state like Georgia. Thats not criminal. Thats making a case for a recount.

Georgia, however, had already completed two recountsone by hand and one by machineby the time that Trump and Meadows spoke with Raffensperger. The fraud allegations the president was pursuing, moreover, were largely if not entirely sourced from random social media accounts and online message boards, and had already been dismissed by his own administrations Department of Justice.

As a legal matter, Trumps contention he truly believed that voting results were rigged has problems. Among them are the concept of willful blindness and Trumps alleged statement that Vice President Mike Pence was being too honest in his response to the election, which would seem to imply an awareness that his own conduct was not honest.

Recall, too, that this trial may be taking place during the presidential campaign. Trump will be defending himself against a smoking gun by arguing, while his closest advisers testify that they could not possibly handle a gun without shooting themselves in the leg, that he believes guns are made out of cheese. And should he convince 12 jurors in Georgia and the District of Columbia that he is an insane person with low-IQ support staff, and secure a not-guilty verdict on the basis of such a triumph, he will then be asking the rest of his fellow citizens to reinstall him as president. It seems like a tall task, but if you think that its impossible, youre probably the kind of person who is still 100 percent sure that the moon is made of rocks.
Former President Trump is maintaining a comfortable lead in Georgia since being indicted in Fulton County related to efforts to overturn the 2020 election in the state, according to a new poll.

The new Atlanta Journal-Constitution poll found that 57 percent of likely GOP primary voters in Georgia would support the former president, giving him a 42-point lead against his closest challenger, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis. DeSantis came in second place with 15 percent of the vote, while every other presidential hopeful polled in single digits.

Former Vice President Mike Pence received 4 percent of the vote, while GOP presidential candidates Vivek Ramaswamy , Sen. Tim Scott (S.C.) and Nikki Haley each received 3 percent. Former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie received 2 percent, while Miami Mayor Francis Suarez received 1 percent.

Fourteen percent of voters also said they were undecided  meaning the Republican presidential candidates still have time to persuade voters.

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One-third of Trumps supporters in the poll also said they would be open to considering an alternative. However, nearly one-third of voters who said they would back a candidate other than Trump said they would still consider voting for the former president.

When broken down in a hypothetical match-up between Trump and DeSantis, the former president came out on top with a 33-point lead. The poll also found about half of Georgia Republicans said the former president is definitely the strongest candidate who can beat President Biden in 2024.

The Hill Elections 2024 coverage

The poll was conducted after Trump and 18 others were indicted by a Georgia grand jury in the 2020 election interference case earlier this month. About half of the voters surveyed said the charges brought against Trump were serious, but 44 percent said they were not.

The poll was conducted by the University of Georgias School of Public and International Affairs among 807 likely GOP voters between Aug. 16-23 and has a margin of error of 3.4 percentage points.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
(The Hill)  Former President Trump is maintaining a comfortable lead in Georgia since being indicted in Fulton County related to efforts to overturn the 2020 election in the state, according to a new poll.

The new Atlanta Journal-Constitution poll found that 57 percent of likely GOP primary voters in Georgia would support the former president, giving him a 42-point lead against his closest challenger, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis. DeSantis came in second-place with 15 percent of the vote, while every other presidential hopeful polled in single digits.

Former Vice President Mike Pence received 4 percent of the vote, while GOP presidential candidates Vivek Ramaswamy. Sen. Tim Scott (S.C.) and Nikki Haley each received 3 percent. Former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie received 2 percent while Miami Mayor Francis Suarez received just 1 percent.

Fourteen percent of voters also said they were undecided  meaning that the Republican presidential candidates still have time to persuade voters.

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One-third of Trumps supporters in the poll also said they would be open to considering an alternative. However, nearly one-third of voters who said they would back a candidate other than Trump said they would still consider voting for the former president.

When broken down in a hypothetical match-up between Trump and DeSantis, the former president came out on top with a 33-point lead. The poll also found that about half of Georgia Republicans said the former president is definitely the strongest candidate who can beat President Biden in 2024.

The poll was conducted after Trump and 18 others were indicted by a Georgia grand jury in the 2020 election interference case earlier this month. About half of the voters surveyed said the charges brought against Trump were serious, but 44 percent said they were not.

The poll was conducted by the University of Georgias School of Public and International Affairs among 807 likely GOP voters between Aug.16-23 and has a margin of error of 3.4 percentage points.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WesternSlopeNow.com.
Former President Trump is set to join South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem (R) in the Mount Rushmore State for a rally amid chatter the governor could be a potential running mate for the former president if he wins the GOP nomination.

Trump will take part in the South Dakota Republican Partys Monumental Leaders Rally in Rapid City on Sept. 8, with Noem slated as the events special guest.

The rally will be the first time Trump is in the state since a Fourth of July weekend event at Mount Rushmore in 2020 during his presidency, according to a release from the South Dakota GOP.

Noem, who won reelection to her South Dakota seat during the midterms with Trumps endorsement, had been among a handful of Republican governors floated as possible 2024 presidential contenders for the Republican nomination.

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The Hill Elections 2024 coverage

But Noem earlier this month doubled down on her decision to not jump in the race amid her second term as South Dakotas governor.

The fact is, none of them can win as long as Trumps in the race. And thats just the facts. So why run if you cant win? Noem said in an interview on Fox Newss Fox and Friends.

Top Stories from The Hill

Trump has long been leading polling of the GOP presidential field.

Still, some speculate the governor could be a potential running mate alongside Trump if he wins the partys nomination.

Noem said last summer that shed be shocked if Trump asked her to be on the ticket alongside him. She told Fox News that shed consider it if asked to be Trumps vice presidential pick.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Georgia election interference

Harrison Floyd, director of Black Voices for Trump, posts bail and is released from jail

Key players: Black Voices for Trump director Harrison Floyd, Judge Scott McAfee, election worker Ruby Freeman, pastor Stephen Lee, publicist Trevian Kutti, Judge Emily Richardson

Floyd was out on $100,000 bail on Tuesday after spending the weekend in jail, the Washington Post reported. Judge McAfee set Floyd's bond on Tuesday. The director of Black Voices for Trump, Floyd is charged with five felony counts for his alleged role in the plot to overturn the 2020 presidential election results in Georgia.

Along with Lee and Kutti, Floyd is accused of threatening election worker Freeman, pressuring her to reveal information under the threat of incarceration if she did not comply.

Floyd was also the only defendant in the case not to have a bond agreement in place prior to turning himself in at Fulton County Jail. Floyd was initially denied bond by Judge Richardson, who cited his prior arrest last year for physically threatening an FBI agent who had attempted to serve him with a subpoena.

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Why it matters: An ardent supporter of Donald Trump , Floyd told McAfee he did not have the money to hire a lawyer. McAfee told him he would appoint a public defender to do so.

First defendant in Georgia election interference case pleads not guilty, two others waive arraignment

Key players: attorney Ray Smith, publicist Kutti, former Trump campaign lawyer Sidney Powell

Ray Smith, a lawyer who worked for Trumps 2020 campaign and is charged with 12 felony counts, became the first defendant in the sprawling case to plead not guilty, CNN reported Monday.

Smith waived his Sept. 6 arraignment and entered his plea on Monday.

Two other defendants also waived their Sept. 6 arraignment: former Kanye West publicist Kutti and Trump campaign lawyer Powell.

In December of 2020, Smith participated in a Georgia state Senate hearing in which he falsely told lawmakers that due to widespread voter fraud, the election results must be vacated and cannot be allowed to stand.

Why it matters: The defendants in the case have begun to pursue their own strategy as to how they will defend themselves in court. Some have requested a speedy trial, while others are seeking a change of venue. As the case progresses, some legal experts say the chances that some defendants will try to cut a deal with prosecutors will only grow.

Jan. 6 election interference

Prosecutors give Trump lawyers 12.8 million pages of evidence

Key players: special counsel Jack Smith, Trump lawyer John Lauro, U.S. District Judge Tanya Chutkan

Federal prosecutors told Judge Chutkan that they had handed over 12.8 million pages of evidence to Trumps legal team, WREG News in Memphis reported.

Included in that number are 5 million pages of grand jury testimony and exhibits and 3 million pages of documents handed over by the U.S. Secret Service.

Trump attorney Lauro said the volume of documents in the case was an avalanche of information and pleaded with the judge to give the defense more time to review them.

Prosecutors countered that 7.8 million pages of the material were already available to the defense and included things like Trumps social media postings and the findings of the House Jan. 6 select committee.

Chutkan ruled that Trumps trial on charges he participated in a conspiracy to defraud the United States and three other felonies would begin on March 4.

Why it matters: Prosecutors have compiled a voluminous amount of evidence against the former president, much of it hiding in plain sight.

Read more:

The New Republic: Former judge trashes stunningly stupid move from Trumps legal team

CBS News: Trumps scheduled trial dates and where they fall in the presidential primary calendar

Associated Press: Trumps drumbeat of lies about the 2020 election keeps getting louder. Here are the facts
Former President Trump said he made the right decision to skip the first GOP presidential debate in Milwaukee last week.

My Poll numbers are UP since the very boring, record setting low (ratings!), Debate. Leading by BIG numbers. I made the right decision, and broke all records with the Tucker Carlson Interview! he said in a Truth Social post Tuesday.

The former president and GOP front-runner for the 2024 nomination announced shortly before the debate he would skip it despite meeting the Republican National Committees polling and fundraising requirements. A prerecorded interview he did with former Fox News host Tucker Carlson aired on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter, when the debate started.

A couple of polls taken after the debate have been split on whether Trump is improving his standing after many of the other candidates debated on a national stage, but at least one poll showed the former president dropping a bit.

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An Emerson College poll showed Trump dropped 6 points from 56 percent before the debate to 50 percent after. A few candidates who participated in the debate, including Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, former Vice President Mike Pence and former United Nations Ambassador Nikki Haley, saw at least a couple-point improvement.

A Trump internal poll obtained by Semafor, meanwhile, had Trump up 3 points from earlier this month to 58 percent, with DeSantis the closest behind with 13 percent and Haley in third with 7 percent. The poll also gave Trump a 39-point lead in a head-to-head matchup with DeSantis.

Trump has criticized the candidates who took part in the debate and the events television ratings.

The Hill Elections 2024 coverage

Nielsen Media Research data showed 12.8 million people tuned in to watch the debate, and Fox said it had higher viewership than 70 percent of all primary debates from the 2016 and 2020 election cycles. But the number was considerably below the 20 million who watched the first Republican debate in 2015, Trumps first time on the debate stage.

The polls also came after Trump turned himself in Thursday following the fourth indictment filed against him, which was related to attempts to overturn the 2020 election results in Georgia.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Donald Trumps alleged criminal activity now spans four criminal indictments totaling nearly 100 felony charges. But another comparatively minor dispute between him and officials in New York City has just been reignited.

While Mr Trump remains tied up in the courts over actions he took both as president and as a private businessman, a small issue related to his companys management of Trump Tower in Manahattan has quietly refused to go away.

At dispute is a clock: a tall, ornate, multi-faced structure which bears Mr Trumps name and tells the time for passersby, currently situated on a sidewalk near the front entrance of Trump Tower. The New York Times, which has taken a unique role as both cataloguer of the dispute and, apparently, a central player in driving it forward, reports that it was installed more than a dozen years ago.

According to the Times, it was done so without a permit  an important miscalculation which the paper noted is far from a unique phenomenon in the city. That wasnt an issue until 2015, when the Times inquired about the clock with the city and began a years-long battle between the Trump Organization and city planning officials who have fretted about the structures location and proximity to the buildings entrance.

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That back-and-forth between Mr Trumps company and the city apparently continued all the way through January 2017, when Mr Trump was sworn into office as president and the Manhattan skyscraper became a security lockdown zone, prohibiting most construction. As a result, the issue was not brought up during his presidency.

Mr Trump would leave office in spectacular fashion in January 2021, the first US president to turn over the keys to the White House after a mob of his own supporters had attacked the US Capitol, days earlier, with the express intent of preventing that at his behest. He would take up residence at his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida, largely concentrating the Secret Services protective presence there and at his New Jersey Bedminster club.

A clock outside Trump Tower in New York City, seen during a protest in support of the former president in June 2023 (AFP via Getty Images)

Enter the Times once again. The newspaper filed a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request for city communications concerning the clock last year, jolting the issue back to life. City officials would go on to send a letter to the Trump team resuming discussions about the clock just last month.

The clock isnt likely to be uprooted over the dispute, and the fees for such a structure are relatively minor. A spokeswoman for the former president, meanwhile, has pledged to work with city officials to complete that permitting process which began way back in 2015.

The clock has been a hallmark of Trump Tower for nearly 20 years, Kimberly Benza told the Times. We will certainly work in conjunction of the city, to the extent that they are missing any paperwork.
The office of the New Hampshire secretary of state was flooded with calls from Trump supporters concerned about a false rumour that the former president was being kept off the primary ballot.

Hundreds of outraged supporters called the office on Monday after conservative talk show host Charlie Kirk inaccurately told his listeners that the state was moving to push out Donald Trump.

New Hampshire Secretary of State David Scanlan, a Republican, told NBC News that hes not seeking to remove any names from the presidential primary ballot, and I have not said that I am seeking to remove any names from the presidential primary ballot.

But Mr Scanlan added that he does expect Mr Trumps qualifications to run in New Hampshire to be challenged under the 14th Amendment, which states that no one who has engaged in insurrection or rebellion against the US may hold public office.

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On his programme on Monday, Mr Kirk said: I dont care if you live in New Hampshire or not. It should be a nationwide movement of people contacting because this impacts everybody.

Were gonna break the phone lines and say, Who do you think you are for even entertaining this? he added.

Its the most recent instance of Republicans targeting election administration officials in their partisan fight fueled by conspiracy theories and Mr Trumps constant lies that the system is rigged against him.

Mr Trump endorsed Bryant Messner when he ran for senate in New Hampshire in the 2020 election. But Mr Messner is no longer an ally of the former president.

In a meeting with Mr Scanlan on Friday, Mr Messner, made a presentation to me about what he is thinking in terms of making a challenge to the former presidents qualifications, the secretary of state told NBC.

I listened, just as I would listen to anybody that wants to come in with issues related to any candidates qualifications one way or the other, he added.

I intend to be prepared by seeking appropriate legal input so that when the time comes to make a decision on those challenges, to qualifications, that I can respond appropriately with the facts, Mr Scanlan told the network.

Mr Messner told NBC that he brought the issue to Mr Scanlan purely as a constitutional conservative.

He said that he thinks its in everybodys interest if this gets to the US Supreme Court as quickly as possible.

Mr Messner told NBC that Mr Scanlan told him that without some judicial guidance, that he really didnt feel like he can make a decision regarding the 14th Amendment, Section 3. And I agree with him.

The Supreme Court may decide that, you know, in fact, Section 3 does not disqualify Donald Trump, Mr Messner added. And that would be good for [Trump] that the air would be clear then.

Chris Ager, the chairman of the Republican Party in New Hampshire, said in a statement on Monday that efforts to deny New Hampshire Republican primary voters a full slate of options are antithetical to our live free or die spirit.

The New Hampshire State Republican Party will fight all efforts to eliminate candidates from our primary ballot, he added. I have confidence in our secretary of state and attorney general to make the right decisions. Let voters decide the nominee, not a weaponized federal justice system using tortured logic.

Speaking to Mr Kirk on Monday, Mr Ager said that he has spoken to Mr Scanlan and the states Attorney General John Formella, also a member of the GOP.

I am very confident that all of the 14 current candidates who apply will be on our ballot, Mr Ager told Mr Kirk.

The former governor of Arkansas and 2024 presidential candidate Asa Hutchinson brought up the 14th Amendment during the initial GOP primary debate last week.

Well over a year ago, I said that Donald Trump was morally disqualified from being president, again, as a result of what happened on January 6, he said in reference to the 2021 Capitol riot.

More people are understanding the importance of that, including conservative legal scholars, who says he may be disqualified under the 14th Amendment from being president, again, as a result of the insurrection. This is something that could disqualify him, under our rules and under the Constitution, he added.
A man sitting on a sidewalk in southwest Modesto was killed Monday evening when struck by one of two vehicles that collided at an intersection, Modesto police report.

The man appears to have been homeless, according to a Police Department post on Facebook. He has been identified, but the release of his name was withheld pending notification of family. His age and community of residence were not immediately available.

The crash occurred just before 7 p.m. at the T-shaped intersection of Amador Avenue and Crows Landing Road.

The driver of a 2011 Toyota Camry was southbound on Crows Landing, MPD spokeswoman Sharon Bear said. The investigation found that the driver of a 2013 Nissan Altima pulled out of a parking lot and was crossing Crows Landing to get onto Amador when she broadsided the Camry.

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The impact caused the Camry to spin and strike the man sitting on the sidewalk, Bear said.

The male succumbed to his injuries on scene, according to the MPD post. Involved parties remained on scene and were cooperative with Officers. Alcohol and drugs do not appear to be a factor in this incident.

The Camry and Altima drivers both are women who live in Modesto, Bear said. The drivers only reported injuries were complaints of pain.

Modesto has consistently ranked among the worst for traffic crashes among its peer cities across the state. The city was second worst among 67 cities in 2020, the latest available rankings from the California Office of Traffic Safety.

The city was fifth worst in the category of crashes involving pedestrians, with 96 people injured or killed.
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Two people were sentenced for the severe abuse and neglect of a 10-year-old child, the Maricopa County Attorney's Office announced Tuesday.

The abuse included physical attacks, withholding of food, failure to seek medical care for injuries, and evidence that one of the defendants lit the child on fire.

Prosecutors said that Chloe Rae Sergent, 27, and Keola Cachero Wimbish, 40, will each spend 20 years in state prison. Sergent pled guilty to one count each of child abuse and attempt to commit child abuse. Wimbish pled guilty to one count of child abuse and two counts of attempt to commit child abuse.

Both were also sentenced to 10 years of supervised probation after their release from prison.

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Sergent was the biological mother of the girl and was in a romantic relationship with Wimbish. Wimbish lived with them, along with two other children.

Court documents show that the girl was removed from their care by the Arizona Department of Child Safety in December 2021 after authorities received reports of the abuse from a third party. On April 5, 2022, Sergent and Wimbish were arrested in Glendale.

Medical exams at Phoenix Children's Hospital also indicated that the child suffered from 12 broken bones, a laceration on her leg that exposed her shin bone, abrasions, bruises, possible burns and several infected injuries that had not received appropriate medical care, according to court records.

The child participated in two interviews with police and described the abuse she received from Sergent and Wimbish. She attributed some of the abuse to her uncle in the first interview but said in the second that the two defendants had threatened her and forced her to lie.

She told police that she had been struck with multiple items, including a machete and a crowbar, and that she had been punched in the face multiple times by the couple. She also said that Wimbish held her head underwater and lit her on fire with a lighter after pouring alcohol on her. The child was also forced to consume drugs from a straw.

Wimbish had also forced her to touch him inappropriately with her hand, according to court documents.

The child was also forced to consume drugs from a straw and her brother was forced to hit her with a hammer, the Arizona Republic previously reported.

She told police that the abuse began after Wimbish had his ankle monitor removed in December 2020 and it continued until she was removed from his care. He was out on release while awaiting sentencing for unrelated fraud and theft charges, which he was handed several years of probation for.

Wimbish and Sergent told police in separate interviews that they did not know about, or how, the girl got the injuries.

But the child gave a detailed account that undercut Wimbish's claims to police.

"The abuse this child suffered at the hands of the people who were supposed to love and care of her is horrific," Maricopa County Attorney Rachel Mitchell said in a prepared statement. "I'm particularly grateful to this young victim who was willing to bravely tell her story. Thanks to the intervention of a caring relative, thorough investigation by police, and hard work by MCAO prosecutors, justice was done."

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Arizona couple sentenced to 20 years for 'horrific' child abuse
As the school year kicks off at N.C. State, two separate sex crimes have been reported on campus within 24 hours.

Just after midnight Sunday, students received a WolfAlert about a reported sexual battery in a stairwell at Owen Hall.

The suspects, according to the alert, are two men. At the time of the alert, university spokesperson Lauren Barker said police could not determine if the suspects are affiliated with the university.

Hours later, a sexual assault was reported in Lee Hall, Barker said.

The victim and suspect in this case are students and met through a dating app, according to the WolfAlert sent out about the incident.

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Although the suspect has been identified, no arrest has been made in this case. The reported assault is unrelated to the earlier incident, according to the alert.

Both reports come less than a week after a man was charged with indecent exposure after allegedly showing his genitals to a female student at the DH Hill Library on campus.
Two Australians are seriously injured in hospital fter falling from a popular Game of Thrones filming location in Croatia.

A 34-year-old man was rushed into emergency surgery, while a 26-year-old woman was placed in intensive care after the pair fell from a medieval clifftop fortress in Pile, Dubrovnik.

Used as a filming location for Game of Thrones, Fort Lovrijenac and the surrounding Pile Gate  first constructed in 1537  is popular with tourists. Notably, the area was used to portray the fictitious Blackwater Bay, and featured in the second and third series.

Used as a filming location for Game of Thrones, Fort Lovrijenac and the surrounding Pile Gate is popular with tourist (Wikimedia Commons/CC BY 2.0/Donald Judge)

The couple were leaning against a wall in the early hours of Saturday morning before they lost their balance, falling five metres onto rocky terrain. The man remains in a serious condition, while the woman  reported as his partner by MailOnline  is in a critical condition.

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We are constantly monitoring her and doing everything we can to fight for her life, Dr Ivan BenAiA told Daily Mail Australia, adding that the woman had suffered head injuries and fractures to vertebrae in her back.

As far as the male is concerned he had a far better run than she did, Dr BenAiA added.

According to reports in The Weekend Australian, the accident happened after one of the couple leant against the other, with Dubrovnik-Neretva police adding that they were drunk. The womans blood alcohol level reading was 0.3, whilst her partners rested at 0.21.

A blood alcohol level reading of 0.0 indicates sobriety, whilst levels over 0.08 per cent are considered impaired and those in excess of 0.40 per cent are dangerous or potentially fatal.

Andrijana Biskup, a spokeswoman for Dubrovnik-Neretva County police, told local news station Dubrovacka Televizija that the couple had been cuddling or kissing when the fall happened, The Sydney Morning Herald reported. A spokesperson for Australias Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade confirmed that consular assistance was being provided to the two Australians.

In March 2023, a British tourist was injured after he fell from Vietnams Cliff of Death whilst taking a selfie. The unnamed mans leg was crushed in Xeo Sa Lung village in the Pai Lung commune as a boulder hit him whilst taking the photo, causing him to fall.

The Cliff of Death is located near the popular Pi Leng Pass, described by officials as a dangerous area with large, unstable boulders stacked on top of one another. The cliffs are often scaled by tourists despite a lack of safety rails and frequently slippery conditions.
More than two-thirds of Americans support unions, according to new polling data the AFL-CIO released Tuesday.

Union support is particularly high among young Americans: 88 percent of Americans younger than 30, according to AFL-CIO data.

The public opinion research firm GBAO surveyed 1,200 registered voters between Aug. 1-8 on behalf of the AFL-CIO. Demographics were weighted and balanced to match the estimated voter registration population, with young voters, AAPI voters and union members oversampled.

The pollster reported a 2.8 percent margin of error and a 95 percent confidence level in their findings.

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Do you know how hard it is to get two-thirds of Americans to agree on anything? Let me put it another way: More Americans believe in unions than like chocolate ice cream, AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler told union organizers and members during the organizations inaugural State of the Unions address.

There have been more than 200 strikes so far in 2023, 10 times more than there were two years ago, said Shuler. She attributed the uptick in part to corporate greed and inequality.

The average CEO made 272 times what the average worker made in 2022, the AFL-CIOs Executive Paywatch found. CEOs of S&P 500 companies received an average of $16.7 million last year, the second-highest level in history.

Its the power of our strikes and our unwavering unity, acting as a beacon for other workers struggling to win back the value and safety that has been slowly taken from them by their corporate overlord, said Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) member Gabriel Kornbluh, who characterized the surge in union support as the rebirth of a movement.

SAG-AFTRA is on day 47 of a strike alongside the Writers Guild of America, which is on day 120 of its strike.

Hot labor summer may be ending, but that just means were going to move into we will win winter, Kornbluh continued.

Shuler also promised we will turn out next year for President Biden in the most historic labor mobilization of our time, noting Bidens historic investment in infrastructure that could lead to more union jobs.

Other recent data points have found benefits to labor unions.

A Treasury Department report released Monday found unions helped raise wages and benefits for all workers, spur positive economic spillover effects and boost civic engagement.

The Treasury report is the administrations latest action to strengthen the important role of labor unions in our economy, Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen said.

Vice President Harris described union workers as the backbone of Americas middle class on Monday, saying their contributions have been historically underappreciated.

Massive strikes and contentious contract negotiations have thrust unions into the national spotlight this summer. As Labor Day approaches, there are no signs the summer of strikes is cooling off.

The Coalition of Kaiser Permanente Unions, which represents more than 85,000 health care workers in seven states and the District of Columbia, announced last Thursday that its members would vote to authorize a strike in the coming weeks.

The health care worker strike, which could come as early as Oct. 1, would be the largest strike of health care workers in the history of this country, said Dave Regan, president of the Service Employees International Union-United Healthcare Workers West (SEIU-UHW).

Since the International Brotherhood of Teamsters ratified a new contract with UPS on last Tuesday, the coalition is currently embroiled in the largest single-employer negotiations in the country.

The United Auto Workers (UAW) union is also currently locked in high-profile contract negotiations with the Big Three automakers Ford, General Motors and Stellantis, formerly Chrysler.

The current UAW contract expires on Sept. 14, and the union, which represents more than 400,000 active members, has been negotiating for higher pay, pensions and job security as the deadline looms.

An overwhelming majority of workers voted to authorize a strike if they dont receive a fair deal, the union said last Friday.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
FILE - Airmen with the 436th Aerial Port Squadron use a forklift to move 155 mm shells ultimately bound for Ukraine, April 29, 2022, at Dover Air Force Base, Del. The Biden administration will send an additional $250 million in weapons and ammunition to Ukraine as part of its ongoing support of Kyiv's counteroffensive. The weapons will be drawn from existing U.S. stockpiles, officials said Tuesday, Aug. 29, and will include mine-clearing equipment, artillery and rocket rounds, ambulances and medical gear, among other items and spare parts. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon, File) (ASSOCIATED PRESS)

WASHINGTON (AP)  The Biden administration announced Tuesday it will send an additional $250 million in weapons and ammunition to Ukraine as part of its ongoing support of Kyivs counteroffensive.

The weapons will be drawn from existing U.S. stockpiles and will include mine-clearing equipment, artillery and rocket rounds, ambulances and medical gear, among other items and spare parts, according to the State Department.

The package will help Ukrainian forces on the battlefield and support its air defenses as Russia continues to launch brutal, brutal strikes against the people of Ukraine, including attacks this past week, White House spokeswoman Karine Jean-Pierre said Tuesday.

The State Department said the package contained AIM-9M missiles for air defense, High Mobility Artillery Rocket System munitions, 155mm and 105mm artillery ammunition and more than 3 million rounds of small arms ammunition.

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The U.S. would have already run out of funding for the year to provide additional stockpile equipment to Ukraine but earlier this year realized the Pentagon had overvalued the equipment it had already sent, which freed up an additional $6.2 billion in funding.

Ukraine has already received more than $43 billion from the U.S. since Russia invaded last year. Those funds have provided weapons systems like howitzers and millions of rounds of ammunition to fight back against the much larger Russian military. Due to the intense and bloody land war, now in its 18th month, much of the ammunition and weaponry has already been used up.



Colleen Long in Washington and diplomatic writer Matthew Lee contributed to this report.
A prominent ethnic studies professor accused of falsely claiming to be Cherokee is stepping down from her post at the University of California Riverside  and shes getting a soft landing.

Not only is Andrea Smith being allowed to keep teaching classes there through August 2024, shell get to keep her retirement benefits and retain the title of professor emeritus, according to a separation agreement released by the university.

And Smith can continue claiming to be Cherokee  but only if asked.

Andrea Smith. (UC Riverside)

Professor Smith agrees to not make any affirmative claims of Native American heritage in connection with her university work for the duration of her university employment, according to the agreement. However, if asked about her heritage in connection with her university work, Professor Smith is permitted to disclose her opinion on her Native American heritage.

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Also, Riverside will pay up to $5,000 toward Smiths legal costs and is shelving any investigation of the allegations that precipitated the professors exit.

The agreement follows a complaint by UC Riverside faculty, alleging that Smith fraudulently claimed Native American identity, the university said in a statement released Monday by spokesperson John Warren. The nine-page separation agreement will bring a negotiated end to Professor Smiths employment with the university.

Smith, 57, did not respond to calls to the university and her home for comment about the deal that will end her teaching career at the university next year.

Smith has not divulged anything about her family tree but in a 2015 blog post she decried identity-policing.

I have always been, and will always be Cherokee. I have consistently identified myself based on what I knew to be true, she wrote.

The Separation Agreement and Release of All Claims, which appears to have been first posted on Instagram Aug. 17 by a Native-American activist named Jacqueline Keeler, states that Smiths downfall came after the university received a complaint on Aug. 23, 2022 from 13 UC Riverside faculty members alleging that she made fraudulent claims to Native American identity. NBC News obtained a copy of the agreement from the university.

No formal University investigation of the allegations has occurred, and no findings have been made as to the merit of the allegations, the agreement states. Professor Smith denies and disputes the allegations contained in the Complaint.

The agreement also makes clear that Smith and the university cut a deal to avoid the substantial expense and inconvenience of further administrative or legal proceedings. It was signed on Jan. 11, 2023, according to the university.

Questions about Smiths claims about being Cherokee first surfaced in 2008, when the University of Michigan sparked an uproar by denying her tenure.

Political activist Angela Davis described Smith at the time as one of the greatest Indigenous feminist intellectuals of our time.

But Steve Russell, a Cherokee academic and writer reported in an April 2008 column for Indian Country Today that Smith was not registered as a member of the Cherokee Nation. His column was titled When does ethnic fraud matter?

NBC News has reached out to the Cherokee Nation to see if Smith subsequently registered with the organization and did not immediately receive a response. But having Cherokee blood and being part of the tribe are not the same thing, according to the Cherokee Indian Center.

Registration in the national registry known as the Dawes Rolls has come to be critical in issues of Indian citizenship and land claims, the organization says on its website. Many people did not sign up on these rolls because they feared government persecution if their ethnicity was formally entered into the system.

Smith landed a tenured professorship at Riverside in 2008, but the suspicions that she was not really Native American persisted. In May 2021, The New York Times Magazine revisited the allegations about Smith.

This prompted university chancellor Kim Wilcox to issue a statement that did not directly address Smith's situation but underscored the schools commitment to transparency and integrity in matters of Indigenous affiliation and identity by all members of our intellectual community.

Smith continued to teach at Riverside until her colleagues complained, the university said.

Back in 1991, Smith wrote an essay in which she pilloried white New Age feminists for trying to become Indian.

When white feminists see how white people have historically oppressed others and how they are coming to very close to destroying the earth, they often want to dissociate themselves from their whiteness, Smith wrote, using the byline Andy Smith. They do this by opting to become Indian. In this way, they can escape responsibility and accountability for white racism.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
By Laurie Chen and Andrew MacAskill

BEIJING/LONDON (Reuters) -British Foreign Secretary James Cleverly will make a long-awaited trip to China on Wednesday in a sign that relations between the countries are normalising after years of tensions over security concerns and alleged human rights abuses.

Cleverly will meet his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi and Vice President Han Zheng, marking the most senior visit to China by a British minister in five years.

Britain is trying to improve ties with China after the relationship sunk to its lowest point in decades under former Prime Minister Boris Johnson , when London restricted some Chinese investment over national security worries and expressed concern over a crackdown on freedoms in Hong Kong.

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Cleverly has argued for a new British policy of engagement with China, saying it would be a mistake to try to isolate the world's second-largest economy and China's help is needed in areas such as climate change and economic instability.

Before his arrival in China, Cleverly told reporters he would discuss issues ranging from climate change to the Ukraine war and areas where Britain has "strong disagreements" with the Chinese government such as freedoms in Hong Kong and Beijing's sanctions against some British politicians.

"We will be discussing how we can work together and where the relationship can be more productive," Cleverly said. "I'll be discussing issues like China's posture in the region, about the Russian invasion of Ukraine, and what can be done [to] bring that to an appropriate conclusion."

Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin said it is "in the common interest" of both nations' peoples to develop relations.

CHANGING BRITISH POLICY

Cleverly was forced to postpone a visit previously scheduled for July after the mysterious disappearance of then Chinese foreign minister Qin Gang.

The last time a British foreign minister visited China was when Jeremy Hunt travelled to the country in 2018.

Britain has made major shifts in its approach towards China in the past decade, moving from saying it wanted to be China's greatest supporter in Europe to being one of its fiercest critics, and now again trying to improve relations.

Under Johnson, Britain attacked China's crackdown on freedoms in Hong Kong and Xinjiang, banned Huawei from Britain's 5G network, and was frustrated by the perception that China did not tell the whole truth about the origins of the coronavirus pandemic.

Rishi Sunak, who took over as prime minister last year, said in his first major foreign policy speech that the so-called "golden era" of relations with China was over, but defended the importance of talking to Beijing.

When asked if Sunak was hoping to meet Chinese President Xi Jinping at the G20 summit in India next month, Sunak's spokesperson said officials were still arranging his meetings but it was important to engage with China while "standing up for our values and protecting our interests".

Sunak is under pressure from some lawmakers in Britain's parliament, including the former Prime Minister Liz Truss, who want London to toughen its policy on China and to declare the country a threat to British national security.

But London has also been looking to build economic ties with faster growing economies since leaving the EU in 2020.

The British government is attempting to strike a complex balance between trying to neutralise security threats posed by China  such as joining the United States and other allies in banning some technologies  and maintaining or even enhancing engagement in some areas such as trade, investment and climate change.

(Reporting by Laurie Chen and Andrew MacAskill; Additional reporting by the Beijing newsroom; Editing by Kim Coghill, Raju Gopalakrishnan and Alex Richardson)
In a scene all too familiar for central Kyiv and for Ukraine as a whole, a large column of mourning soldiers and civilians walked through the capitals streets on Aug. 28 to say goodbye to another high-profile commander killed in Russias war against Ukraine.

Serhii Ilnytskyi, call sign Sokil, deputy commander of the Ukrainian Volunteer Army and commander of its operations in the Bakhmut area, was killed in battle on Aug. 22.

Late Ukrainian Volunteer Army Deputy Commander Serhii "Sokil" Ilnytskyi. (Photo: Serhii Ilnytskyi/Facebook)

Though the exact details on the circumstances of his death have not been publicized, it was announced at the funeral that he died in direct fighting for Kurdiumivka, a contested town about 12 kilometers south of Bakhmut in Donetsk Oblast, where Ukrainian forces continue to make regular successful counterattacking advances.

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The ceremony was held first at St. Michaels Golden-Domed Monastery, before the procession made the short walk down to Independence Square (Maidan Nezalezhnosti).

Dozens of soldiers under Ilnytskyis command made the trip from the front lines to be there for the funeral.

Since before Ukraine had achieved independence, Ilnytskyi was a career soldier, but had left the military before 2014 due to health issues. Then, when Russias war began with the covert occupation of parts of eastern Ukraine, Ilnytskyi and his son joined the Right Sector volunteer formation, later following commander Dmytro Yarosh into the newly formed Ukrainian Volunteer Army, or UDA.

He was a big reason why this volunteer spirit remained in Ukraine, said Serhii Bratchuk, spokesperson of the UDAs Southern Division, to the Kyiv Independent. The volunteer movement of those days hasn't died, it just operates under the Ukrainian armed forces.

Having returned to civilian life before the full-scale invasion, Ilyntskyi, a native of Kyiv, was a serving member of Kyiv City Council in the European Solidarity party, whose leader, former Ukrainian president Petro Poroshenko, attended the funeral with his wife Maryna.

In 2018, Ilnytskyi represented Ukraine at the Invictus Games for veterans in Sydney, Australia, winning gold in indoor rowing. The medal was on proud display at the funeral, alongside several others earned for outstanding military service.

When the full-scale invasion began, Ilnytskyi returned to serve in the UDA, fighting both on the southern and eastern front lines, including the Kherson counteroffensive, and the long, ongoing battle for Bakhmut.

Ilnytskyi was known for fighting directly with his soldiers in some of the toughest battles, something highly unusual for a commander with the rank of colonel.

In the army they say that 'colonels don't run around;' they sit in the rear and do other jobs, which I guess is a good thing, said Bratchuk, but he was not like that.

He didn't send people off into battle, he took them with him. He would do everything so that his guys would not be afraid.

Beyond that, soldiers and loved ones alike testified to his unique leadership qualities, invaluable particularly in a grassroots volunteer unit like the UDA.

I saw how he could organize people, raise them up and motivate them, Bratchuk said.



There was one story where new recruits were in a very difficult situation, under fire. I don't want to say they were afraid, but anyway, he found the right words, the guys didn't retreat, and even went forward and took new positions back from the enemy.

A popular patriotic slogan in Ukraine reads Heroes do not die!

Late Ukrainian Volunteer Army commander Serhii Ilnytskyi types on his phone in Donetsk Oblast on Aug. 5, 2023. (Photo: Francis Farrell/The Kyiv Independent)

In the wake of the deaths of iconic figures in the Ukrainian military over the full-scale war, such as Dmytro Da Vinci Kotsubailo, Ilnytskyi, and just recently, fighter pilot Andrii Juice Pilshchykov, let alone the thousands of service members not well-known publicly, Ukrainians have often taken to social media with the reminder that heroes do die, and will continue to die as long as Russia continues its war against Ukraine.

Ilnytskyi is survived by his wife Oksana, and two children.

Serhii Ilnytskyi and the Ukrainian Volunteer Army featured in the Kyiv Independents most recent field report from the front lines in Donetsk Oblast. You can read the story here:

Read also: Inching forward in Bakhmut counteroffensive, Ukraines hardened units look ahead to long, grim war

Note from the author:

Hi, this is Francis Farrell, cheers for reading this article. I grew up on the other side of the world, but in Ukraine I have found a home unlike any other. Just like with so many of our readers, I understand that you don't have to be from near here to realize how important Ukraine's struggle is for freedom and human rights all over the world. The Kyiv Independent's mission is to lead the way in continuing to bring the best homegrown, English-language coverage of this war, even if the rest of the world's attention starts to fade. Please consider supporting our reporting.







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BEIJING, Aug. 29 (Xinhua) -- At the invitation of Wang Yi, a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and Minister of Foreign Affairs, James Cleverly, Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs of the United Kingdom, will pay an official visit to China on August 30, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin announced Tuesday. 
Ukrainian defenders raise a flag on the left bank of the Dnipro River in Kherson region

Ukrainian troops have managed to cross the Dnipro River in Kherson Oblast and conduct an operation in a Russia-held area there, Ukraines Operational Command South spokesperson Natalia Humeniuk told public broadcaster Suspilne on Aug. 29.

In her comment, Humeniuk said that Ukrainian troops landed on the left bank of the river "to lift the spirit of people under occupation."

Read also: Russian drones target Odesa Oblast as Kherson, Sumy Oblast shelled

"The troops then returned, the flag [they raised] is still standing, counter-battery [artillery] fight is ongoing," she added.

Read also: Civilian killed, more seriously injured after Russia hammers Kharkiv, Kherson, and other oblasts

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Previously, a video of two Ukrainian soldiers raising the Ukrainian flag near the Antonivka Road Bridge in Kherson Oblast was widely circulated online.

Read also: Russian attack on Kherson center wounds civilians, including young girl

Prior to this, Deputy Defense Minister Hanna Maliar stated that Ukrainian defenders carried out certain tasks on the left bank of Kherson Oblast, without providing further details.

U.S.-based Institute for the Study of War (ISW) earlier reported that Ukrainian troops managed to conduct a landing near the village of Kozachi Laheri on the Russia-occupied left bank of the region, taking advantage of weakened Russian defense in the area.

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Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
The Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Valerii Zaluzhnyi in a message on Telegram on Aug. 29 honored the memory of the soldiers who have died in the fight for Ukraine's independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity.

"We will not forget the feats of Ukrainian heroes who gave their lives in the fight for the Motherland, for the free future of their families and friends..." Zaluzhnyi wrote.

We bow our heads to the bravery and loyalty of our soldiers. Eternal memory and eternal glory to all those who fought for the freedom of Ukraine!

Read also: Zelenskyy commemorates Heroes of Kruty from earlier struggle for Ukrainian independence

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The Day of Remembrance of the Defenders of Ukraine was established by a decree of President Volodymyr Zelenskyy signed on Aug. 14, 2019. On the day, Ukrainians honor the soldiers who gave their lives during the Ilovaisk tragedy and in the subsequent struggle for freedom from Kremlin invasion and domination.

The Ilovaisk tragedy was a treacherous shooting of Ukrainian soldiers who were forced to leave the captured Ilovaisk through a so-called "green corridor". At that time, Ukrainian forces attempts to liberate the city were thwarted by the regular army of the Russian Federation, which entered Ukraine on Aug. 24, 2014.

Read also: First Lady Zelenska breaks down in tears at unveiling of childrens memorial in Kharkiv

Up to 1,300 Ukrainian soldiers were trapped in a pocket: units from more than 15 different brigades and battalions. According to the Office of the Prosecutor General, 368 Ukrainian soldiers were killed during the entire Ilovaisk operation from Aug. 6 to Aug. 31, and more than 250 were killed as they were withdrawing along the corridor on Aug. 29, 2014. More than 400 soldiers were wounded and about 300 were taken prisoner.

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Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
This is the first agreement of this level between the railways of the two countries since 1994

Ukraine and Poland have signed an agreement aimed at developing passenger and freight train services between the two nations, Yevhen Liashchenko, the head of Ukraines national railway operator Ukrzaliznytsia, has said in a press release issued by the Ukrainian rail operator on Aug. 28.

Liashchenko said the agreement marks a significant milestone, representing the most substantial pact between the rail systems of both countries since 1994.

Read also: Ukraine and Lithuania agree to develop railway link bypassing Belarus and Russia

The agreement between the Polish operator Polskie Koleje Panstwowe Spolka Akcyjna (PKP S.A.) and Ukrzaliznytsia was formally signed on Aug. 28.

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Were taking another important step towards fortifying the partnership and development of railway transportation between Ukraine and Poland, said Liashchenko.

Read also: Ukrzaliznytsia to Europe: Opportunities for Ukrainians to travel to European countries

Together, we will continue to enhance border infrastructure and increase passenger and cargo traffic between our countries, ultimately yielding positive effects for our railways and the national economies of Ukraine and Poland.

As outlined in the agreement, PKP S.A. will collaborate with Ukrzaliznytsia to establish individual accords related to railway infrastructure management, cargo, and passenger train transportation. Joint working groups will be formed to facilitate the negotiation of separate agreements.

The cornerstone of this agreement is to ensure secure and uninterrupted transportation of passengers and cargo. Furthermore, the companies have agreed that operations involving the transloading of cargo to railcars with different track gauges will be carried out not only by the receiving carrier at the border station within their respective territories but also, upon mutual agreement, by the carrier transfering the cargo at the border station within its territory.

Read also: Ukrzaliznytsia shows off new couchette cars for Kyiv-Chernivtsi route

Regarding locomotive haulage for freight transportation between border stations in both directions, a balanced 50/50 arrangement will be implemented, utilizing locomotives and crews from both Ukrzaliznytsia and PKP S.A.

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Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
A military expert mapped out his suggestion for a Ukrainian counteroffensive strike.

Veteran Mike Martin said an advance of around 25 miles at a key stretch of the front line could do it.

That's still no easy task, and depends on a sudden breakthrough, he wrote.

A military expert outlined a plan for Ukraine to make a decisive strike at Russian forces following the apparent capture of a southern town.

Mike Martin, a veteran and visiting fellow at the Department of War Studies at King's College London, said there is a path to a potential breakthrough for Ukrainian forces in a thread on X on Monday.

The key, Martin wrote, lies in forcing Russian troops out of a large area west of Melitopol, which has been occupied since the first months of the full-scale invasion.

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Melitopol, in the Zaporizhzhia region, sits at the center of a wide area of land that has been referred to as the "land bridge" that connects the Russian-occupied Crimean peninsula to the rest of Ukraine.

Melitopol is a key objective in the counteroffensive  and US intelligence officials have reportedly assessed that, bluntly, Ukraine can't reach it.

But, in order to reassure its US allies, Ukraine still needs a win in the short term "that keeps the narrative alive that supplying Ukraine is the right thing to do," Martin wrote. His idea is to force a withdrawal from a wide area conceivably within Ukraine's reach.

Ukraine's rapid breakthrough last fall was achieved "not by fighting the Russians every inch of the way, but by cutting off their supply and forcing them to withdraw," he wrote.

By his analysis, Ukraine can instead seek to cut the city and a wide portion of land west of it from the rest of Russian control by targeting the strategic locations that serve them  that is, the city of Tokmak, which has a major railway junction; the two highways that link Crimea to the Ukrainian mainland; and the Kerch Bridge, which links Crimea to Russia.

Ukraine also needs to be able to incapacitate the M14 highway that hugs the very south of the country, supplying Melitopol from the east, he said.

Thanks to the capture of Robotyne over the weekend, Tokmak is already within artillery range, Martin wrote. As for the bridging routes, Martin was "fairly confident" that Ukraine could wipe them out when it wanted.

It exacted considerable damage in its audacious October 2022 attack on the Kerch Bridge, and thanks to UK-supplied Storm Shadow missiles, has been credited with other strategic bridge strikes in recent weeks.

It would remain for Ukrainian forces to be close enough to the M14 to keep that, too, within artillery range, Martin wrote. That requires advancing roughly 25 miles further than Ukrainian forces have reached in several locations.

That's not simple. The whole reason Ukraine's spring counteroffensive has been so much slower than its thrilling fall liberations in much of the east of the country is the new conditions: miles-deep fortifications laid by Russia along the 600-mile front line, guarded by artillery, helicopters, and drones.

It means slow, grinding progress, which saw Ukrainian forces retake the town of Robotyne, northwest of Melitopol, over the weekend.

"The way of these things is that nothing happens for ages and then there is a flood of activity as a sector of the line collapses or a bridge is destroyed," he wrote. "And I do think we are heading to one of those moments."

Martin is not the only observer characterizing a potential breakthrough this way.

Former General David Petraeus cautioned writing off the Ukrainian counteroffensive in an interview and a co-authored op-ed last week, saying that "defenders can hold for a long time and then suddenly break, allowing an attacker to make rapid gains before the defense solidifies further to the rear."

Read the original article on Business Insider
Kyiv is still hopeful that EU accession talks with Brussels could begin in 2023, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba said during a joint press conference with his French counterpart Catherine Colonna in Paris on Aug. 29.

Read also: Ukraine to implement recommendations for EU membership by 2023, Zelenskyy says

The Ukrainian minister stated that he and Colonna discussed the path that the EU and Ukraine need to tread by the end of the year to open Ukraine's EU membership negotiations.

"I specifically thanked France, as President [Emmanuel] Macron was one of the first leaders who seriously started promoting the topic of granting Ukraine EU candidate status," Kuleba said.

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He indicated that Ukraine has already undertaken a series of reforms required for EU admission.

The minister also noted that he discussed Ukraine's future NATO admission in Paris.

Read also: Greece announces support for Ukraine's NATO membership

"Regarding the recent NATO summit in Vilnius, we are discussing further steps, as it is apparent that without Ukraine as a member of the EU and NATO, Europe will not be a safe place," Kuleba added.

Read also: Ukraine fulfills all seven recommendations of EU given when granted membership candidacy  Shmyhal

Earlier, Deputy PM for European and Euro-Atlantic Integration of Ukraine, Olha Stefanishyna, stated that Kyiv will not be able to meet all seven of the European Commission's preconditions by October, but negotiations will still begin by year's end.

On June 22, European Commissioner Oliver Varhelyi stated that Ukraine has met two of the seven recommendations of the European Commission to start negotiations for EU entry, and other recommendations are still in the process of implementation.

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Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
Ukraine says the southern front is the main axis for the counteroffensive

Ukraine is continuing to push southward in Zaporizhzhia Oblast, branching out past Robotyne, Deputy Defense Minister Hanna Maliar said Monday. She also said that the southern front is the main effort in Ukraine's ongoing counteroffensive.

Robotyne has been released and our troops are moving southeast" of this town, she told the Ukrainian Military Media Center, according to its Telegram channel. Maliar added that the Armed Forces of Ukraine are advancing towards Novoprokopivka and Ocheretuvaty "despite fierce enemy resistance."

https://twitter.com/maria_avdv/status/1696042353562161464

"In the south, we are carrying out an offensive, she said on the nightly national TV program, according to Ukrainian Pravda. This is our main offensive front.

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The Ukrainian Defense Ministry (MoD) also noted that today was the first official announcement that Robotyne was liberated, despite the widely seen image of the Ukrainian flag displayed there. In an interview, members of the 47th Separate Mechanized Brigade talked about the challenges of fighting in that heavily mined town.

https://twitter.com/DefenceU/status/1696153018960433558

The Ukrainian 3rd National Guard Brigade also released video of its participation in the liberation of Robotyne.

https://twitter.com/GloOouD/status/1695839830586888672?s=20

As we have reported in the past, this represents a breach of the first section of the so-called Surovikin Line of Russias dense defensive system and puts Ukraine within about 10 miles of the city of Tokmak. The line was named for Russian Gen. Sergie Surovikin, who developed that defensive plan, but who has since been fired after news broke that he was aware of the late Wagner leader Yevgeny Prigozhins putative pitch ahead of time.

Taking or bypassing Tokmak on a push south, as we have noted before, will be a major step toward making it to Melitopol, which as we said in December, is a major objective in Ukraines desire to reach Crimea and cut off the so-called land bridge to choke off Russian forces.

The Russian Defense Ministry said it repelled seven attacks by units of Ukraines 82nd Air Assault Brigade and 46th Airmobile Brigade close to Robotne and Verbove.

The Russian MoD did not specifically deny Maliars claims.

The Kremlin-connected Rybar Telegram channel on Monday said fighting is still taking place around Novoprokopivka, about two miles south of Robotyne, and that Ukrainian forces are taking heavy casualties.

https://twitter.com/Alex_Oloyede2/status/1696254629397323995

But Rybar added that the Armed Forces of Ukraine are preparing a massive offensive in the south

"The task of the entire active offensive will most likely be to reach and pass through the Surovikin defense line, which runs south of Robotyne, to develop and consolidate success before the onset of rains in October, Rybar suggested.

Ukraine is pushing south past Robotyne, Ukrainian and Russian sources alike agree. (Google Earth image)

In a recent Wall Street Journal story, Ukrainian Gen. Valeri Zaluzhny, commander-in-chief of Ukraine's armed forces, was quoted as telling U.S. commanders that his troops were "on the cusp of a breakthrough."

How fast and how far that breakthrough happens remains to be seen.

Before we head into the latest news from Ukraine, The War Zone readers can catch up on our previous rolling coverage here.

The Latest

For the second time in about a week, a Ukrainian First Person Video (FPV) drone struck a facility in Energodar, Zaporizhzhia Oblast, housing occupation authority police.

At 9.50 a.m. local time, an explosion occurred at the specified address, the GUR said on its website. As a result, the personnel of the invaders were injured...Information is currently being clarified on the number of killed and woundedThere are no casualties and casualties among civilians.

Russian-installed official Vladimir Rogov claimed there were no deaths or injuries as a result of this attack.

The staff was already evacuated, he said Monday on his Telegram channel.

The video, released by the Ukrainian Defense Intelligence Directorate (GUR) shows the drone flying toward a converted bank building, passing over cars driving on the street below, then entering a window before the transmission cuts off.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?si=6PtVBVy2GuqLjF3y\u0026embeds_referring_euri=https%3A%2F%2Fgur.gov.ua%2F\u0026source_ve_path=Mjg2NjAsMzY4NDIsMzY4NDIsMzY4NDIsMjg2NjAsMjg2NjQsMTY0NTA2\u0026feature=emb_share\u0026v=dvWA9Sldz9w

Ukrainian officials are finding an increasing number of Russian-made components in the remains of Shahed-136 drones they've recovered, the Defense Intelligence Directorate (GUR) said Monday.

Thats an indication that Russia is moving closer to its goal of producing the deadly drones domestically, rather than by purchasing them from Iran, GUR Maj. Gen. Vadim Skibitsky said, according to the Ukrainian RBC news outlet.

Earlier this month, we published new details about a Russian plan to domestically manufacture Iranian Shahed-136 drones. The drones will be built in a facility 500 miles east of Moscow in the Tatarstan region with a goal of building 6,000 drones by summer 2025. You can read more about that in our story here.

Previous data from the GUR indicate that the enemy planned to produce 1,300 units of the so-called Geran-2, RBC reported. For them, it is planned to use components for both foreign and own production. However, in reality, Russia is not able to produce such a number of UAVs, Skibitsky noted.

Skibitsky did not address the discrepancy between his figures on the number of Iranian-designed drones Russia hopes to produce and those that were previously reported.

https://twitter.com/euromaidanpress/status/1696175354082189367

Ukraine too is working to boost its line of locally produced uncrewed systems, Mykhailio Fedorov, Ukraine's Minister of Digital Transformation, said on his Telegram channel Monday.

The ministry, along with the Ukrainian Brave1 defense technology innovation portal, recently tested 25 different Ukrainian uncrewed systems.

The systems range from logistical to combat, from remote turrets to kamikaze robots, Fedorov said. Soon they will help the military to destroy the enemy more effectively.

While he did not provide any specifics about exactly what types of systems or when they may become operational, he said we have significant progress in the drone market - companies are scaling and actively developing. Next, we will extend this experience to the Robot Army.

https://twitter.com/FedorovMykhailo/status/1696195896168333420

Speaking of Ukrainian-developed drones, the Ukrainian Defense Ministry (MoD) said its forces have used the domestically produced Great Banderik octocopter drone in combat.

The octocopter is able to carry a payload of up to 31.5 kilograms (nearly 70 pounds), the Ukrainian MoD claimed on its Telegram channel Monday.

Operated by a remote control ground system, the Great Banderik showed an excellent result during the [electronic warfare] EW tests: it functioned successfully despite the snow, gusty wind and the operation of all the EW equipment that was on the test site.

The drone was approved for operational use by the MoD in April. That approval took just one month thanks to the accelerated procedure from the Accelerator of the Ministry of Defense, the Ukrainian MoD said.

However, it did not offer any specifics about where or when the drone has been used or any visual evidence to support that claim.

The Ukrainian Defense Ministry said it has already used the Great Banderik octocopter in combat.

In an opinion piece published Sunday, Washington Post columnist David Ignatius suggested that there is growing backing in Washington for providing rocket-launched cluster munitions to Ukraine, which could strike deeper than the artillery-fired versions the United States began supplying last month.

Ignatius offered no specific sources for who suggests that Washington is getting closer to providing the rocket-launched cluster munitions. Nor did he name which what type of system would deliver them. But in addition to the Dual-Purpose Improved Conventional Munitions (DPICM) 155mm artillery rounds the Pentagon has provided Ukraine, the U.S. had two other artillery munitions capable of carrying the bomblets contained in the warhead. There are 227mm artillery rockets that can be fired from the M270 Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS) and M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) launchers. Also, some versions of the Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS) short-range ballistic missile had DPICM-filled warheads.

You can read more about how these cluster munitions work, their role on the battlefield and why they are controversial in our story here.

A US Army briefing slide discussing the functioning of a more modern DPICM-XL projectile. US Army

Battles over the Chornomorneftegaz drilling rigs in the Black Sea, located about 70 kilometers south of Odesa, are heating up again, the U.K. Defense Ministry (MoD) noted in its daily intelligence assessment on Sunday.

As we reported last week, Russias Defense Ministry (MoD) claimed that its combat jets attacked two small Ukrainian military vessels in the Black Sea. Russia produced video of its jet attacking one of the vessels while Ukraine produced video of personnel aboard one of those vessels firing a man-portable air defense system (MANPADS) at a Russian jet.

The outcome of each engagement remains inconclusive.

The platforms command valuable hydrocarbon resources, the British MoD noted. "However, like Snake Island to the west, they can also be used as forward deployment bases, helicopter landing sites and to position long-range missile systems.

Ukraine has frequently fired at these locations, the British MoD said, while both Russia and Ukraine have occupied them.

https://twitter.com/DefenceHQ/status/1695669934699724819

Even in this age of drone warfare, where troops movements are seemingly ubiquitously spotted by hovering overhead reconnaissance platforms, combatants still stumble into each other. That's especially true in the thick growth of Ukrainian forests, where this video shows Russian and Ukrainian forces unknowingly approach each other. Until the Ukrainians apparently got the drop first and opened up on the Russians.

https://twitter.com/visegrad24/status/1696170467042685261?s=12\u0026t=BQRSNakUKt7_8ssZiGBW-A

There will be a memorial Tuesday in Kyiv for Ukrainian Air Force Major Andrii Pilshchykov, better known by his callsign Juice, who was one of three pilots killed in a crash involving two L-39 jet trainer aircraft Aug. 25.

He was often quoted by The War Zone, offering many key insights, which we recalled in our story about his death:

"Juice served as something akin to the informal 'voice' of the Ukrainian Air Force at times, providing numerous first-hand accounts of Ukraines air war to The War Zone and other media outlets, sometimes from the cockpit of his MiG-29 Fulcrum as he sat alert on the ground. These included detailed perspectives, from the first desperate hours over Kyiv to fighting the scourge of Iranian-made drones heading for Ukrainian cities."

You can read more about Juice and the fatal crash in our story here.

The memorial starts at 11 a.m. local time in the Patriarchal Cathedral of the Resurrection of Christ UGCC. Anyone who wants to pay tribute to the legendary pilot and support his mother and loved ones can attend the farewell.

https://twitter.com/anno1540/status/1696150373398929761?s=12\u0026t=BQRSNakUKt7_8ssZiGBW-A https://twitter.com/DefenceU/status/1695777506836480087?s=20

The training of Ukrainian forces continues. NATO announced that almost 1,000 Ukrainian Marines are returning home after a six-month training course conducted by British Royal Marines, Army Commandos and instructors from the Norwegian and Dutch marines.

https://twitter.com/nato/status/1696083973330362855?s=12\u0026t=BQRSNakUKt7_8ssZiGBW-A

But there are some serious challenges with training.

Its hard enough to learn how to operate a tank in just six weeks, for instance, but its even more difficult when you cant understand the instructions.

When German, Dutch and Danish officers gathered in a lush green patch of the North German countryside to train Ukrainian men, they were not expecting a shortage of competent interpreters to be the top issue, Financial Times reported Monday.

Interpreters are challenge number one, said Martin Bonn, a Dutch brigadier general who is deputy head of the multinational EU training mission launched last November to educate Ukrainians on a range of weapons and tactics.

Kyiv and Western capitals are providing translators, who often struggle with the necessary vocabulary, the publication reported.

By the end of the year, 10,000 Ukrainian soldiers will have received training in Germany, part of a broader Western drive to equip the Ukrainian armed forces with tanks, artillery and air defense systems that has seen 63,000 recruits dispatched by Kyiv to attend training camps in Europe and the US.

The big challenge is the translation of words used in a military or technical context . . . Words no one uses in everyday life, Bonn said after Ukrainian soldiers took part in a tank shooting exercise at a military base near Klietz in northeastern Germany. European trainers were full of praise for the tremendous motivation of the recruits, despite the stress of the brutal war they are fighting and the daily dangers to friends and family back home. But they also said that the age and ability of the soldiers they are sent varies wildly, as Ukrainian commanders on the front line are often unwilling to spare their best men. One volunteer who turned up in Germany was 71 years old.

https://twitter.com/hoanssolo/status/1696028633016471958?s=12\u0026t=BQRSNakUKt7_8ssZiGBW-A

A Russian RB-636AM2 Svet-KU mobile radio emission detection system parked behind a home somewhere in Luhansk Oblast was reportedly destroyed. These electronic warfare systems are designed to monitor and track sources of radio signals as well as protect information transmitted over wireless channels from interception. In the video below, the munition appears to land just to the right of the Svet-KU. The video cuts off before we can see what happened, but from the proximity of the blast it was likely destroyed. As of Monday at 10:30 a.m. Eastern, the Oryx open source tracking group listed only one such system, and that was captured by Ukrainian forces back on Feb. 11, 2022. However, because Oryx only tabulates equipment for which there is visual verification, more may have been damaged, destroyed or captured.

https://twitter.com/front_ukrainian/status/1696123613378724009?s=12\u0026t=BQRSNakUKt7_8ssZiGBW-A

We have frequently seen old military equipment show up on the battlefield for both sides, but it appears the Russians are really going retro. Two horses from the central Russian Republic of Bashkortostan are now taking part in the full-on war in Ukraine, according to the Russian Bashinform news outlet.

"Bashkir horses Abzelil and Buyan, as planned, are involved in the detour of positions and silent transportation of goods," the outlet reported.

https://twitter.com/gerashchenko_en/status/1696069802282930487?s=12\u0026t=BQRSNakUKt7_8ssZiGBW-A

And finally, Beyonce once against showed off her support for Ukraine.

The music icon wore a metallic dress made by Ukrainian designer Ivan Frolov during a recent appearance.

https://twitter.com/kyivpost/status/1696160178729619688?s=12\u0026t=BQRSNakUKt7_8ssZiGBW-A

That's it for now. We'll update this story when there is more news to report about Ukraine.

Contact the author: howard@thewarzone.com
With restrictions imposed on the use of donated weapons against targets outside its borders, Ukraine is developing its own long-range strike weapons, one of which appears to have already been used on Crimea, which is fair game even for systems provided by foreign donors.

On Aug. 23, Kyiv used a modified Neptune anti-ship cruise missile to hit a Russian S-400 air defense system on the western most part of the occupied peninsula, a Ukrainian defense official told The War Zone. There are plans, the official added, to eventually strike Moscow and other targets inside Russia - precluded for use by donated weapons - with land attack variants of the Neptune.

I tA Neptune anti-ship missile being launched. Ukroboronprom

The attack on a the S-400 system near the village of Olenivka on Cape Tarkhankut was 100 percent carried out by a modified Neptune, said the official, speaking on condition of anonymity to discuss operational issues.

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The officials statements came just days after Oleksiy Danilov, secretary of Ukraines National Security and Defense Council, stated that a new Ukrainian missile hit the S-400. Danilov, however, did not specify exactly what weapon was used.

https://twitter.com/clashreport/status/1695364632267968755?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1695364632267968755%7Ctwgr%5E22f9436f1508d49b189923bff813754e8af97f4c%7Ctwcon%5Es1_\u0026ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.thedrive.com%2Fthe-war-zone%2Fukraine-situation-report-claims-swirl-around-what-destroyed-s-400-in-crimea

The claim also followed one made Aug. 24 by Yuriy Butusov (@UButusov) who reported that the S-400 strike used an R-360 Neptune anti-ship missile modified for a land-attack to strike the S-400. You can read more about that in our story here.

https://twitter.com/Archer83Able/status/1694735741304074278?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1694735741304074278%7Ctwgr%5E22f9436f1508d49b189923bff813754e8af97f4c%7Ctwcon%5Es1_\u0026ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.thedrive.com%2Fthe-war-zone%2Fukraine-situation-report-claims-swirl-around-what-destroyed-s-400-in-crimea

The Russian Defense Ministry (MoD) has released statements over the past two days that seem to corroborate the officials claim.

The first statement came Monday, when it claimed on its Telegram channel that a Ukrainian cruise missile was shot down by on-duty air defense systems over the Black Sea off the coast of the Republic of Crimea. While it did not name the specific type of Ukrainian cruise missile, that statement is significant because in past claims about shooting down cruise missiles, the Russian MoD has referred specifically to foreign-donated ones. On Aug. 7, for instance, the Russian MoD claimed the shoot down of nine Storm Shadow long-range cruise missiles provided by the U.K.

On Tuesday, the Russian MoD claimed for the first time that it shot down a Ukrainian Neptune anti-ship missile. However, it did not say whether it was headed for a ship or land.

https://twitter.com/clashreport/status/1696477572400292055

The Neptune had previously gained notoriety after two were used to hit the Russian Navys Project 1164 Slava class cruiser Moskva in the Black Sea in April 2022. You can read more about that in our story here. The missile had just entered very limited service when the war began, with few on hand for operational applications.

Back in April of this year, the Ukrainian official told us that his country was working on converting the Neptune to a land attack weapon, but that it needed a new guidance system which it did not have at the time. Specifically, certain kinds of chips were needed to complete the system, but that the system was close to completion. On Monday, that official said Ukraine had developed a GPS guidance system that takes the missile to a pre-determined location. The missile's infrared imaging seeker then searches for and locks onto a target based on a pre-loaded image and then makes its terminal attack run on that target. If it cannot match the target, the missile aborts its attack.

This would be a major capability leap as these missiles would not be able to be jammed using electronic warfare and would be very hard to detect during their terminal attack stage due to their seekers being passive in nature. We have discussed the value of the use of imaging matching for targeting, also commonly referred to as DSMAC (Digital Scene Matching Area Correlator) or ATR (Automated Target Recognition) for cruise missiles that are or could be made available to Ukraine.

Currently, Ukraine's donated Storm Shadow and SCALP-EG cruise missiles use this guidance arrangement. Employing it on a reworked Neptune would directly mirror the path that RGM-84 Harpoon took, which turned it into the SLAM (Stand-off Land Attack Missile) missile via modification with infrared passive seeker, among other tweaks. Eventually, the follow-on SLAM-ER would be an even further advance from its Harpoon progenitor. You can read all about these missiles and what they can do for Ukraine here.

SLAM missile which evolved from the Harpoon. (USN)

It's also worth noting that Russia appears to have employed countermeasures against DSMAC-capable missiles just as Storm Shadow arrived on the scene. From our previous report:

"In fact, Russia may already be reacting to Storm Shadow's automatic target recognition systems, and to the possibility that other Western missiles that use similar arrangements may show up in the future. Independent naval warfare analyst HI Sutton has reported on the new paint jobs that are being applied to the Black Sea Fleet's major surface combatants. Basically, the scheme blacks out the ends of its hull  bow and stern  to change the silhouette of the vessels. While Sutton has stated this is likely to confuse drone boat operators as to what targets they are seeing, we contend that this could also be a countermeasure to ATR-capable missiles, like Storm Shadow, and others that very well may be on the way soon.

Using special paint that reduces IR signature in the wavelengths these seekers work at could potentially confuse their targeting logic. Basically, the imagery it sees would not match that of the targeting imagery/models loaded up into its computer, and thus it would not attack the intended target. How effective such a countermeasure might be is not clear, but Russia invests in other cruise missile countermeasures that are of dubious value."

https://twitter.com/CovertShores/status/1674508898990977041?s=20 https://twitter.com/CovertShores/status/1674364144923844608?s=20 https://twitter.com/MrFrantarelli/status/1674338393478635521?s=20

Since that report, Sutton has stated he believes these paint jobs are also to make it harder to identify particular ships in commercial satellite imagery. We do not believe that is the primary use case, although that could be an added benefit. Further proof may have come just today as imagery of Russia's Engles-2 bomber base 300 miles from the Ukrainian border. The base has come under repeated attack using crude Ukrainian long-range drones. Now, for what seems to be the first time, we are seeing what appears to be a covering on Tu-95 Bear wings that could work to break up the infrared signature of these aircraft in order to confuse cruise missiles with DSMAC/ATR capabilities. This is just one possibility at this time and we may find out the Bear's unusual appearance is due to some other reason, but we have not seen anything similar on these aircraft at the base in recent weeks, with this new feature showing up just yesterday in satellite imagery. The timing is very peculiar and mirrors that the Black Sea Fleet's repaint, as it closely follows the first use of a land-attack capable Neptune missile that supposedly uses infrared for its targeting process.

Photo  2023 Planet Labs inc. All rights reserved. Reprinted by permission.

Photo  2023 Planet Labs inc. All rights reserved. Reprinted by permission.

We must note that it is possible that this Neptune adaptation could use another form of terminal homing or just hit a simple GPS coordinate, but that seems less likely at this time and our source distinctly described its targeting capabilities. This capability would also be important as Russia has capable electronic warfare systems built specifically to counter cruise missiles and localized GPS jamming is very much a real thing that has already impacted the effectiveness of other precision weapons, like M31 rockets fired by HIMARS.

As to why a base so far away would potentially deploy a countermeasure like this, if indeed that is the case? Neptune's reach can be extended and apparently that is very much in the works.

Fired from the same launcher as the anti-ship variant, the converted Neptune has a range of about 400 km (about 250 miles) and a payload of about 350 kilos (more than 770 pounds), the official told us. If accurate, that would make it the longest-range, hardest-hitting ground attack missile or rocket built by Ukraine. However, we have no way of independently verifying these claims.

While the modified Neptune offers Ukraine its longest strike weapon yet, there are downsides, the Ukrainian defense official said.

One is that the subsonic missile can be thwarted by sophisticated Russian air defense systems. The Russian claim that it shot one down is not improbable, the official told us. But a bigger issue may be how few exist.

Only a couple of dozen have been produced, the official said.

On Sunday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky told the Ukrainian Ukrinform official news outlet that his country has significantly increased the production of Neptune anti-ship missiles.

https://youtu.be/g_jbz7w-Rks?t=322

While it is unclear the delivery timeline for these weapons, Zelensky's assertion is seemingly good news for the Neptune modification program, the official told us.

"I believe the increase, if any, will be in manufacturing the surface-to-surface version."

The U.S., U.K. and France have restricted Ukraine to using their donated weapons only on Ukrainian soil, including Crimea. There are no such preclusions with the modified Neptune or any other Ukrainian-developed weapon.

As a result, even with the currently limited inventory, Moscow will be targeted using the modified Neptune in the not-too-distant future, the official told us. That will add to the discomfort felt in the Russian capital, which has been repeatedly hit by Ukrainian drones.

To reach that roughly 290-mile distance from the Ukrainian border (and perhaps longer from a launch site), the payload will be reduced and the volume of fuel will be boosted. This is a common modification for cruise missile variants.

That will increase the range and enable it to strike Moscow, the official said. It will happen.

Moscow, roughly 290 miles from the Ukrainian border, will be targeted by modified Neptune missiles, a defense official tells us. (Google Earth image)

While it may not have the same punch as the weapon that hit the Russian SAM system in Crimea, a successful strike against the right target in Moscow, like a fuel facility, will still be able to impact logistics and have a huge psychological impact on a city that has yet to experience the devastation like that delivered upon Ukraine.

Still, many questions remain. Primarily, how many of these missiles can Ukraine produce and how quickly can they do it. The type's efficacy is also very much in question, regardless of a claimed early success. If Ukraine are getting some help from allies, even in terms of basic expertise, it could help in all of these regards.

Now, like Russia, we will have to wait and see where the land attack Neptune shows up next.

Tyler Rogoway contributed to the technical aspects of this report.

Contact the author: howard@thewarzone.com
Key developments on Aug. 29:

Ukraines military reports advance on southeastern front

Governor: Russian artillery strike damages hospital in Chernihiv Oblast

Putin to visit China in October, Bloomberg reports

Reintegration Ministry: Children to be evacuated from 5 settlements in Zaporizhzhia Oblast

US announces $250 million in military aid for Ukraine

The Ukrainian military reported on Aug. 29 that it continues to move forward on the southeastern front, including near the newly liberated village of Robytne in Zaporizhzhia Oblast.

The reports of slow but steady Ukrainian progress come as Russia continues to attack both military and civilian sites.

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Heavy fighting rages on as Russian forces also conduct offensive operations on some parts of the eastern fronts  including near Avdiivka, Marinka, Kupiansk, and Lyman, according to Ukrainian General Staffs Aug. 29 briefing.

On Aug. 29, Russian forces also launched an artillery attack on the city of Semenivka in the northern Chernihiv Oblast, damaging a local hospital, according to Governor Viacheslav Chaus. No casualties have been reported thus far.

The attack comes less than two weeks after a Russian missile strike on a drama theater in the regional center Chernihiv killed seven people, including a six-year-old girl, and wounded more than 140.

Meanwhile, the death toll of an Aug. 28 Russian missile strike of an industrial facility in the central Poltava Oblast rose to four people, Governor Dmytro Lunin reported on Aug. 29.

As fierce battles continue in southern Ukraine, the Ministry of Reintegration of Temporarily Occupied Territories on Aug. 29 called a mandatory evacuation of children and their parents or guardians from five settlements of Zaporizhzhia Oblast.

The measure will concern 54 children and 67 accompanying family members from Huliaipole, Yehorivka, and Preobrazhenka in the Polohy district, and Stepnohirsk and Novopavlivka in the Vasylivka district, according to the ministry.

Read also: As counteroffensive presses forward in southeast, every meter costs a life

US commits another $250 million in military aid

The U.S. State Department announced a new package of military assistance for Ukraine on Aug. 29, including AIM-9M missiles, HIMARS munitions, Javelin systems, and other aid with a total value of $250 million.

The latest tranche further includes 155mm and 105mm artillery ammunition, mine-clearing equipment, various anti-tank systems and rockets, over 3 million rounds of small arms ammunition, ambulances, demolition munitions for obstacle clearing, as well as spare parts, services, training, and transportation.

"Every day, Russia continues to wage a brutal war of conquest that has killed many of Ukraine's civilians and displaced millions of its people," U.S. State Secretary Antony Blinken said.

"Russia started this war and could end it at any time by withdrawing its forces from Ukraine and stopping its brutal attacks.

Until it does, the United States and our allies and partners will stand united with Ukraine, for as long as it takes."

The U.S. official also pointed out that Russia's attacks against Ukraine's ports and agricultural infrastructure are escalating hunger and food insecurity worldwide.

Russian forces have targeted Ukrainian ports at least eight times since Moscow's unilateral withdrawal from the Black Sea Grain Initiative on July 17.

The U.S. announced its previous military aid package on Aug. 14, including munitions for Patriot air defense systems and HIMARS, artillery shells, and other support in total value of $200 million.

Reuters reported on Aug. 29 that South Korea will provide Ukraine with 520 billion won ($394 million) in financial aid next year, eight times more than in 2023,

According to South Korea's 2024 budget, the aid package includes 130 billion won for reconstruction, 260 billion for humanitarian assistance, and another 130 billion won through international organizations.

Read also: Inching forward in Bakhmut counteroffensive, Ukraines hardened units look ahead to long, grim war

Putin to visit China

Russian President Vladimir Putin has agreed to visit China as his first international trip since the International Criminal Court (ICC) issued an arrest warrant against him over war crimes in Ukraine, Bloomberg reported on Aug. 29, citing three undisclosed sources.

The Kremlin's leader has reportedly accepted the invitation of Chinese President Xi Jinping to attend the Belt and Road Forum in October, the outlet said.

Putin has avoided international trips since the ICC issued arrest warrants against him and Russian official Maria Lvova-Belova for their role in the illegal deportation of Ukrainian children to Russia. The only exemption was the Russian leader's reported visit to the occupied parts of Ukraine.

Earlier in August, he did not attend in person the BRICS summit hosted by South Africa, a country that is a signatory to the ICC's Rome Statute and therefore legally obliged to detain the Russian president.

Putin also refused to attend the Group of 20 summit held in India, and instead of his allegedly planned trip to Turkey, his Turkish counterpart Recep Tayyip Erdogan is scheduled to come to Russia's Sochi in the near future. Notably, neither Turkey nor India are parties to the ICC.

According to sources cited by Bloomberg, the Russian leader is willing to visit only those countries where his security service can completely guarantee his safety. Russia's close ally China, who is also not a party to the Rome Statute, is one of such places, Bloomberg's sources said.

This would be Putin's first trip to China since February 2022, when he met Xi to proclaim "friendship without limits" between Moscow and Beijing, just weeks before Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine.

Read also: Just hold on: Front-line medics race against time to save wounded soldiers

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Key developments on Aug. 28:

Ukrainian forces liberate Robotyne in Zaporizhzhia Oblast

Experts say 67% of foreign components in Russian drones originate in China

Russia claims to destroy 2 drones, cruise missile over Crimea

Russia likely cancels major military drills due to lack of troops, equipment, British defense ministry says

Ukrainian forces liberated Robotyne in Zaporizhzhia Oblast and moved southeast of the village, Deputy Defense Minister Hanna Maliar said early on Aug. 28.

Maliar also said that the military is advancing towards nearby settlements of Novoprokopivka and Ocheretuvate in the Melitopol axis despite "Russian resistance."

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Robotyne reportedly served for the Russian troops as a strongpoint, a key point in a defensive fighting position that anchored the overall defense line.

It took Ukrainian forces six days of heavy fighting to reclaim the village after Ukraine's 47th Mechanized Brigade broke through multi-echelon Russian defensive lines near Robotyne and entered the settlement on Aug. 22.

The following day, Commander-in-Chief of Ukraine's Armed Forces Valerii Zaluzhnyi posted a video showing the Ukrainian flag raised on the roof of a destroyed building in Robotyne.

The village was confirmed to be fully under control of Ukrainian troops on Aug. 28.

Ukrainian troops have managed to attack through Russia's first main defensive belt in some areas along the front lines, Chairman of the U.S. Joint Chiefs of Staff Mark Milley said on Aug. 25 without specifying the area.

Securing Robotyne, around 20 kilometers from Orikhiv in Zaporizhzhia Oblast, allows Ukrainian troops to advance south toward the Russian-occupied Tokmak and Melitopol, the key logistics hubs of the Russian forces in the area.

The next major Russian strongpoint after Robotyne is Tokmak, 65 kilometers northeast of Melitopol, which potentially could open Russian logistical routes to Ukrainian artillery.

Following the announcement, Maliar said that Ukrainian forces are entrenching in the area after "having a success" southeast of Robotyne and south of Mala Tokmachka in Zaporizhzhia Oblast.

Meanwhile, the General Staff of Ukraine's Armed Forces reported in its evening update on Aug. 28 that Ukrainian forces are continuing offensive operations in the Melitopol direction. The axis is one of the three sectors where Ukraine conducts its counteroffensive launched in early June.

Besides the gains in the southeast, Ukrainian forces are also advancing in eastern Donetsk Oblast, reclaiming one square kilometer south of Bakhmut over the past week, Maliar reported.

Ukrainian forces have reclaimed a total of 44 square kilometers around Bakhmut since the start of the counteroffensive, according to the military.

Read also: Inching forward in Bakhmut counteroffensive, Ukraines hardened units look ahead to long, grim war

Majority of foreign components in Russian drones originate in China

The Yermak-McFaul Expert Group on Russian Sanctions examined 174 foreign components from three drone models used by Russia to attack Ukraine  Shahed-136/131, Lancet, and Orlan-10  discovering that more than 67% of foreign parts had come from China.

Turkey and the United Arab Emirates are responsible for 5 and 2 percent of parts, the President's Office said on Aug. 28.

The expert group found parts, including processors, microcircuits, and transistors, made in Japan, South Korea, Switzerland, and other countries.

While many components are available online, which makes it difficult to regulate, the expert group, led by President's Office Head Andriy Yermak and former U.S. Ambassador to Russia Michael McFaul, called on manufacturers to do more to prevent Russia from accessing their products.

According to a Ukrainian internal document shared with the ambassadors of G7 member states and obtained by the Kyiv Independent, China accounted for 80% of the flow of electronics components to Russia, with over $211 million worth of products shipped over January and February of 2023 alone.

Read also: Kyivs frustration boils as flow of Western chips for Russian missiles continues uninterrupted

Russia claims destroying drones, missile over Crimea

The Russian Defense Ministry claimed that its air defense had destroyed two drones and a cruise missile over the occupied Crimea on the morning of Aug. 28.

No casualties were reported.

The Kyiv Independent couldn't immediately verify these claims.

However, Krym Realii media outlet reported, citing local Telegram channels, that sounds similar to the air defense work were heard near Yevpatoria on Crimea's west coast.

The Russian Defense Ministry blamed Ukraine for the attack. Kyiv hasn't yet responded to the accusation.

Reports of drone and missile attacks targeting the Russian logistics, ammunition, and fuel depot and bases in occupied Crimea, Kherson, and Zaporizhzhia oblasts have increased in recent weeks.

On Aug. 24, Ukrainian troops landed in Crimea and briefly raised the Ukrainian flag as part of an operation with the Navy.

Read also: Official: New Ukrainian-made missile used to strike Crimea

Russia likely cancels major drills due to lack of troops, equipment

Russia has "highly likely" canceled Zapad (West) drills, its large-scale joint strategic exercise, due to the lack of available troops and equipment, the U.K. Defense Ministry reported in its latest intelligence update on Aug. 28.

The exercise should have taken place in September and become "the culmination of the military's training year," according to the report.

"There is a realistic possibility that the Russian leadership is also sensitive to domestic criticism liable from running another slickly presented joint strategic exercise during wartime," the ministry said.

Russia has based the joint strategic exercise in western Russia at least every two years since 2010 as it prioritizes countering what it sees as a threat from NATO.

"The Russian military's under-performance in Ukraine has highlighted how joint strategic exercises have had limited training value and have largely been for show," the ministry said.

The Zapad drills in 2021 became the largest since the early 1990s.

Read also: Ukraines counteroffensive lurches forward: Key moment looms as more forces committed

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RAMALLAH, Aug. 29 (Xinhua) -- Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammed Ishtaye on Monday called on the international community to take necessary measures to stop Israeli violations against the Palestinians in the West Bank.

Ishtaye made the appeal during the weekly meeting of the Palestinian Authority cabinet held in the West Bank city of Ramallah in response to remarks of the far-right Israeli Minister of National Security Itamar Ben Gvir, according to an official statement.

"The world did not need to hear Minister Ben Gvir's statement to be convinced and ascertained of the racist ideas that shape the thought and behavior of those who today assume the reins of power in the occupying state," he said.

Ben Gvir said Wednesday in an Israeli TV interview that the right of the Jews to travel on the West Bank's roads exceeds that of the Palestinian inhabitants, describing the Palestinians as "agitators."

Direct peace talks between Israel and the Palestinians stalled in late March 2014 following disputes over Israeli settlements and the recognition of a Palestinian state.

The Palestinians want to establish an independent Palestinian state on the territories occupied by Israel in 1967, including the West Bank, and the Gaza Strip, with East Jerusalem as its capital. 
Ukrainian defenders continue to hold back the Russian offensive actions in the vicinity of Marinka, Donetsk Oblast. A total of 32 combat clashes occurred on the front during the past day.

Source: General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine on Facebook, information as of 06:00 on 29 August

Details: Russian forces launched a total of eight missile and 47 air strikes over the past day and carried out 39 attacks from multiple-launch rocket systems on the positions of Ukrainian troops and settlements.

The Russian terrorist attacks unfortunately resulted in casualties among the civilian population. Residential buildings, schools and other civil infrastructure facilities were destroyed.

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Thirty-two combat clashes occurred over the past day.

On the Sivershchyna and Slobozhanshchyna fronts, Russian forces conducted airstrikes near Popivka and Slavhorod in Sumy Oblast. They carried out mortar and artillery attacks on over 25 settlements.

On the Kupiansk front, Russian forces conducted airstrikes near Ivanivka and Kyslivka in Kharkiv Oblast. The settlements of Kyslivka, Kolodiazne and Berestove in Kharkiv Oblast came under Russian artillery and mortar attacks.

On the Lyman front, Russian forces launched airstrikes near Novoiehorivka, Tverdokhlibove and Bilohorivka in Luhansk Oblast and Torske and Spirne in Donetsk Oblast. Over 10 settlements came under Russian artillery fire.

On the Bakhmut front, Russian forces conducted airstrikes near Bohdanivka, Klishchiivka and New-York in Donetsk Oblast. Over 15 settlements were affected by Russian artillery attacks.

On the Avdiivka front, Russian forces launched an airstrike near Avdiivka. Oleksandropil, Novokalynove, Avdiivka Sieverne and Pervomaiske in Donetsk Oblast came under Russian artillery and mortar fire.

On the Marinka front, Ukraines Defence Forces continue to hold back the Russian offensive actions near Marinka in Donetsk Oblast. Russian forces conducted an airstrike near Krasnohorivka and Kostiantynivka in Donetsk Oblast. The settlements of Krasnohorivka, Marinka, Pobieda, Novomykhailivka, Katerynivka and Yelyzavetivka in Donetsk Oblast were hit by artillery fire.

On the Shakhtarsk front, Russian forces conducted airstrikes near Vodiane, Novosilka and Blahodatne in Donetsk Oblast. The settlements of Vuhledar, Vodiane, Maksymivka, Prechystivka, Zolota Nyva, Blahodatne and Urozhaine in Donetsk Oblast were affected by Russian artillery attacks.

On the Zaporizhzhia front, Russian forces conducted airstrikes near Mala Tokmachka, Robotyne and Novodanylivka in Zaporizhzhia Oblast. Over 25 settlements were affected by artillery shelling.

On the Kherson front, Russian forces conducted airstrikes near Mykolaivka and Olhivka in Kherson Oblast. Kherson, Sadove and Stanislav in Kherson Oblast and Ochakiv in Mykolaiv Oblast were affected by Russian artillery fire.

Meanwhile, the Ukrainian Defence Forces continue to conduct an offensive operation on the Melitopol front, consolidating their positions and conducting counter-battery operations.

During the past day, the Ukrainian Air Force launched eight strikes at areas where Russian military personnel were concentrated, one strike on a Russian command post and three strikes on Russian anti-aircraft missile systems.

Units from Rocket Forces and Artillery hit two command posts, an air defence system and two pieces of artillery at their firing positions.

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Ukrainian Defence Minister Oleksii Reznikov has appointed Crimean Tatar public figure Arsen Zhumadilov as head of the Armed Forces Resource Support Agency.

Source: Zhumadilov on Facebook

Details: Currently, the Agency exists only on paper. A three-year contract has been signed with Zhumadilov.

Quote: "Do not rush to congratulate me. I hope you will congratulate me in three years, when I summarise the results of the contract, when the country will have a systematic solution for the provision of the army, and the state will have another well-functioning institution."

More details: Zhumadilov spoke about his immediate plans.

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First of all, the Ministry is to submit a draft resolution to the government, by which the latter should designate the Agency as the responsible executor of the budget programme.

"We planned to adopt it in early July, but the speed of movement of draft documents in the ministry's jungle sometimes drops to negative values," Zhumadilov posted.

The main strategic challenge, he said, is to rethink the function of logistics for the needs of the Armed Forces from "procured and delivered" to "met the needs of our military".

This means not only corruption-free tenders (this is "basic hygiene", so to speak, a condition without which there is no point in continuing anything), but also clear forecasting and planning, quality policy and its control during reception of goods, distribution and access to proper supplies for the military, system stability regardless of personnel and resilience to shocks.

Background: This newly-created agency is to start purchasing ammunition, fuel, food and other resources needed for the army in autumn.

Arsen Zhumadilov is a public official and Crimean Tatar public figure. He is a senior lecturer at the Department of Political Science at the National University of Kyiv-Mohyla Academy. He has extensive experience in developing state institutions and reforming public procurement. He was the first person to be selected as the head of the Medical Procurement of Ukraine state company.

In April 2023, he headed the defence procurement reform team within the Defence Procurement Support Office at the Ministry of Defence of Ukraine.

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The Security Service of Ukraine (SSU) has detained a former militant of the Russian-backed Donetsk People's Republic (DPR) in Vinnytsia Oblast, seeking to flee to unrecognised Transnistria [an unrecognised breakaway Russian-backed state internationally considered to be part of Moldova - ed.].

Source: Press service of the SSU

Quote: "The SSU tracked down another militant of the DPR terrorist organisation, hiding from justice for a long time for his participation in the war against Ukraine.

The offender was detained near the border with unrecognised Transnistria, to which he tried to flee to avoid punishment for his crimes."

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Details: The detainee is a resident of the city of Kostiantynivka in Donetsk Oblast.

He joined the so-called Slavic Regiment, a Russian-controlled terrorist group in Ukraine's east, in 2014.

He was engaged in "duty" at Russian checkpoints, pulling over cars of Ukrainian citizens trying to leave the temporarily occupied part of the oblast.

During such "pull-overs", the militants would create artificial pretexts to abduct people and "confiscate" their personal vehicles.

Furthermore, he administered several pro-Kremlin groups on Vkontakte social media, agitating residents of Donetsk and Luhansk oblasts to join the terrorist DPR.

Shortly before the start of Russia's full-scale invasion, the man left the ranks of the militants and left for the Ukrainian-controlled territory, where he tried to lay low.

Officers of the SSU established his whereabouts and detained him in one of the border districts of Vinnytsia Oblast.

During the search, the detainee possessed a mobile phone and SIM cards containing evidence of his communication with the DPR militants.

He has now been served with a notice of suspicion under Art. 258-3.1 of Ukraine's Criminal Code (participation in a terrorist group or terrorist organisation).

The offender is kept in custody. He faces up to 15 years in prison.

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Vadym Fedorov often wakes up thinking hes in the battlefield, only to realize that hes surrounded by peaceful friends and family, not soldiers.

The 30-year-old Ukrainian commanding officer first served on the front lines of combat of Russian aggression in Ukraine in 2013. When Russia invaded the country back in February 2022, it wasnt a new role for him to step up and serve his country.

When you go to the front lines, you start to understand why youre there, and whats required of you, and why you do what you do when protecting your homeland, said Fedorov, who soon ended up having both legs amputated following several combat wounds. He was only five feet away from cover when Russian forces opened fire on him, but managed to help guide the rest of his unit to safety. Mykola Sarazhynskyy helped translate his thoughts as he spoke in Ukrainian.

Federov was one of thousands of Ukrainians and their supporters who made their way to the Capitol lawn Friday in celebration of Ukrainian Independence Day. Hosted by Ukrainian American House, a Rancho Cordova-based organization dedicated to supporting the Ukrainian community in the capital region and around the world, the event featured various performances and art exhibits honoring the decades-long struggle of Ukrainians against Russian influence.

Ukrainian soldiers Vadym Fedorov, left, and Oleg Dubovyi, right, sit in wheelchairs as the Ukrainian American House hosts an event at the state Capitol on Friday to honor Ukraines Independence Day. Fedorov and Dubovyi came to the U.S. to receive prosthetic surgery after being injured in their countrys war with Russia. Lezlie Sterling/lsterling@sacbee.com

The mood in the air was joyful, and several attendees stood underneath the blazing sun cloaked in the blue and yellow colors of the Ukrainian flag. Still, the ongoing war continues to cast shadows on a hopeful future for the nation and its people.

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That turmoil has led to nearly 300,000 Ukrainians fleeing to the United States. Sacramento boasts around 20,000 emigres, organizers estimate, though the Sacramento region itself has long been a beacon to the Ukrainian community outside of the country.

This city has been home for the largest Ukrainian refugee population, and we are grateful for this support, said Vlad Skots, who is chairman of Ukrainian American House and has been in Sacramento for 20 years. People come in here ... they understand that Ukrainians issues are not only a Ukraine issue, but for everybody who shares values of freedom and human rights.

How is Sacramentos Ukrainian community finding support?

The main goal of Ukrainian American House has been to connect Ukrainian refugees with businesses, support and community institutions, Skots said. However, fundraising at Fridays event largely went to support soldiers seeking medical treatment for battlefield wounds.

The event was capped by a video message from President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who emphasized the importance of Ukrainian independence.

Fedorov and Oleg Dubovyi, 57, another volunteer soldier who attended Fridays event called Zelenskyys message a very touching moment.

They met so many Ukrainians that were part of this community in this city and region, said Sarazhynskyy, director of community events for the Protez Foundation, a nonprofit group that has been helping to sponsor wounded soldiers trips to the U.S.

Denis Nakonechny, the UA Houses executive director, stressed the importance of generating support for his community in times of uncertainty, noting that the group has drawn nearly half a million attendees at similar Sacramento events since 2017.

He said many attendees have only been in the U.S. for several months and the event was another opportunity to unite together, to feel the support of other Ukrainians and build this message to the Ukrainian people that we are here together.

We support you, Nakonechny said. We did not just escape from Ukraine and just try to be under the asylum here, but were very active here.

Plans for the future

Nakonechny said Friday was a good emotion for us not only because of the many Ukrainians making up the thousands of faces in the crowd, but also because of the Americans in attendance who were not Ukrainian.

Its hard to hear every time this news that the war still continues, said Nakonechny, adding that the support from American business partners and allies has been crucial to the work of UA House. But that is our work, to push the news, push the updates of what is happening in Ukraine and try to involve the people.

The soldiers stayed with a host family in Sacramento, getting to visit California nature in nearby mountains and eat a steak dinner. In addition to helping wounded soldiers get to Minnesota for treatment, the Protez Foundation helps them access prosthetics, personalized training and support, as well as follow-up care back home.

As more refugees turn to Sacramentos immigrant communities for support, UA House plans to find sponsors for them under United States immigration programs tailored for Ukranians. For many in the organization, that work is deeply personal.

We have many real issues, but this country is great, Skots said. I, as a refuge, was able to come here and build my business and help other people. That makes our country truly great.
Moscow-installed illegal occupation government in Crimea is preparing a new wave of mobilization of locals to the Russian army, reported the Mission of Ukraines President in Crimea.

The occupation authorities are installing mobilization points in Crimean cities, with one already active in central Alushta, according to the Aug. 28 report.

Meanwhile, the Russian military enlistment office in Sevastopol is briefing its employees on handing out summonses to residents in coordination with police or Rosgvardia, the Mission wrote.

According to the Ukrainian authorities, Russia plans to mobilize up to 30,000 people and call up 10,000 previously conscripted soldiers in Crimea.

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Russian instructors also reportedly conduct military training in Crimea based on their experience" in fighting against Ukrainian forces, teaching locals field medicine, marksmanship skills, drone control, and mountaineering.

Read also: David Kirichenko: Ukraines Crimean partisans are waging war in the shadows

The occupiers are looking for all possible ways to involve the residents of occupied Crimea in the war against Ukraine, adds the report.

The Mission cited a recent decree signed by Russian dictator Vladimir Putin, allowing the "operational headquarters" of occupied Crimea to "coordinate" the work of military units and involve locals in "guarding and fighting against saboteurs on a voluntary basis."

On Aug. 27, the National Resistance Center, run by Ukraines special forces, reported that people living in Russian-occupied Crimea were increasingly unhappy with Moscows efforts to force them into the army.

Russian proxies throughout the occupied regions of Ukraine have forcibly drafted residents into the Russian military. In the Russian Federation, too, where campaigns to force men into military service have proven deeply unpopular, efforts to entice recruits with financial benefits have increased.

Ukraines Crimean Peninsula has been under Russian occupation since 2014 following a fake referendum staged by Russia to annex the territory.

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The Ukrainian military have had success in the vicinity of Novodanylivka-Verbove in Zaporizhzhia Oblast and are consolidating their positions.

Source: General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine

Quote: "They have had success around Novodanylivka-Verbove, and are consolidating their positions, inflicting fire damage with artillery on identified enemy targets, and carrying out counter-battery countermeasures.

On the Bakhmut front, the Defence Forces continue to conduct offensive actions south of Bakhmut, consolidating their positions."

Details: The Russians carried out unsuccessful offensive actions near Avdiivka and Marinka in Donetsk Oblast.

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The General Staff reports that the Russians are suffering significant losses in personnel, weapons and equipment, they are moving units and troops, and are actively using reserves.

The Ukrainian Defence Forces are also continuing to hold back the advance of Russian troops on the Kupiansk, Lyman and Bakhmut fronts. The Russians carried out unsuccessful offensive actions near Klishchiivka in Donetsk Oblast. Heavy fighting continues.

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Ukrainian troops on the battlefield lose an average of 40-45 reconnaissance UAVs daily, of both domestically-produced and imported varieties, Yuriy Shchyhol, head of Ukraine's State Special Communications Service, told Ukrainian TV broadcasters on Aug. 29.

Speaking of reconnaissance drones, on average, our security and defense forces lose 40-45 drones a day, said Shchyhol.

Read also: Drones target Tula Oblast, Russians claim successful interceptions

This includes the simplest Mavic, Matrice [commercially available civilian drones], and large professional drones of both Ukrainian and foreign manufacture.

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Read also: Drones reportedly strike Russian military airbase in Bryansk Oblast

According to his data, more than 22,000 combat drones have been purchased, with roughly 15,000 already delivered to the Ukrainian military.

Read also: Russia looking to ramp up suicide drone production despite sanctions hurdles, Ukrainian intel says

The official noted that of the UAH 40 billion ($1.08 billion) allocated by the government for UAV procurement, 63% has already been spent.

Since February 2022, the Defense Ministry has adopted 28 models of different types of domestically manufactured UAVs. As of late July 2023, thousands of drones from the ministrys procurement department have been handed over to the military.

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Russia has completely withdrawn its ground forces from Belarus, transferring units to its reserves where other Russian units are conducting an offensive on the Kupyansk to Lyman section of the front in eastern Ukraine, a Ukrainian commander has said.

Read also: POW reveals lack of drinking water, logistics supplies, other issues in Russian army

Commander of the Joint Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, Lieutenant General Serhiy Nayev, commented on the Russian forces redeployment on Aug. 29, Ukraines Military Media Center reports.

Ukraine retains full control of the situation on the border with Belarus and no drastic changes are expected, Nayev said, according to the report. He added that there are no signs of the formation of strike groups in the area of responsibility of North Operational Command. The troops that are within Belarus are mainly ready to conduct deterrent and defensive actions, the general said.

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Read also: Russia deploys over 100,000 troops at strategic Lyman-Kupyansk front

"Given that Russia has not achieved its strategic goals, we do not discount that it will search for new reasons to resume active operations from the northern direction," Nayev said, not ruling out provocations and sabotage on the Ukrainian-Belarusian border.

Also in September, Belarus plans to hold a series of joint exercises with the CSTO  Echelon, Search, Interaction  that "could be used to legitimize the build-up of military presence," Nayev said.

The CSTO, or Collective Security Treaty Organization, is a Moscow-dominated regional security grouping.

On Aug. 27, the head of the press service of Ukraines Eastern Military Grouping, Illya Yevlash, said that Russia had deployed about 110,000 troops in the Lyman-Kupyansk section of the front.

Read also:

The UK Defense Intelligence agency in its daily Ukraine situation report on Aug. 26 said that Russia is planning to try to regain the initiative in the war by returning to much wider offensive operations, one of the potential directions of which it said was the Lyman-Kupyansk section of the front.

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Theres no doubt that the air war over Ukraine has been intense, with no shortage of aerial engagements involving a wide range of different aircraft and targets. But imagery showing actual air-to-air encounters has so far been very rare. Now the Ukrainian Air Force has released a video from the cockpit of one of its MiG-29 Fulcrum fighters, as it successfully shoots down whats said to be a Russian Orlan drone.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gDx-fp2HINw

The video, which is undated and provided without any suggestion of location, was posted on the Militarnyi Videonews YouTube channel, before being included as part of an article from Militarnyi remembering the famous MiG-29 pilot, Andrii Pilshchikov, better known as Juice, who had previously provided The War Zone with several in-depth accounts of the air war.

Its not clear if the video in question, running to 48 seconds in length, shows one of Juices engagements, although the Militarnyi story suggests thats a possibility. His skill was high, he could hit such small targets as the Orlan reconnaissance drone, which compared with the MiG-29 seems microscopic, the article notes.

Juice in the cockpit of a fully armed Ukrainian MiG-29. Juice/Ukrainian Air Force



What we can see, however, is some of the symbology on the MiG-29s head-up display (HUD). While the quality is low, its possible to make out the speed of the aircraft, shown at the top left. The video starts with the jet flying at 550 kilometers an hour, before dropping slightly to 530 km/h by the end of the engagement. These values are equivalent to approximately 300 and 280 knots, respectively.

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The figure at the top right, meanwhile, shows the altitude of the MiG-29, apparently ranging between 560 and 610 meters. This equates to roughly 1,800 to 2,000 feet.

On the left of the HUD, next to the scale marker that shows acceptable missile launch parameters, the letters RL appear (in Cyrillic), indicating that the radar is switched on.

The view from the cockpit as a Ukrainian MiG-29 launches a U.S.-made AGM-88 HARM missile. Ukrainian Air Force

At the 27-second mark, another two letters appear centrally, toward the bottom of the display. These are PR (again, in Cyrillic) and show the pilot that the missile launch has been authorized  they are now free to launch a missile. When that same symbol starts flashing, it indicates that locking is in progress. Although thats not immediately apparent, likely due to the low quality of the video, the missile launch authorization symbol is soon followed by a missile streaking ahead of the MiG and detonating in a fireball in front of the jet and in close proximity.

Based on the symbology at the bottom right of the HUD, the weapon appears to have been a radar-homing R-27 series air-to-air missile, known to NATO as AA-10 Alamo, in particular, an extended-range R-27ER version. This weapon has a maximum range of 59 miles and is hardly optimized for taking out relatively tiny drones: Seeker limitations mean pilots have to approach the drones at danger close range.

https://twitter.com/SignMyRocket/status/1573679352679731200?s=20 https://twitter.com/CombatAir/status/1270035847669329921?s=20

On the other hand, as we have seen repeatedly in Saudi Arabias campaign against Houthi drones, a radar-guided weapon like the AIM-120 Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missile (AMRAAM) is often considered a more reliable means of scoring a kill compared to an infrared-guided weapon like the AIM-9 Sidewinder  or the R-73 (AA-11 Archer) used by Ukraine. The limited thermal signature of these drones means heat-seeking missiles such as these will not always manage to achieve a lock-on. Of course, all of these missiles represent a very expensive way of countering whats essentially a very low-cost threat.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xsnoS4WaNIE

A Russian MiG-29 uses an R-73 series missile to shoot down a Georgian Hermes 450 drone in 2008:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BypnhFI7HGY

As for the drone that was destroyed, this is reportedly an Orlan-series type. These small drones are primarily used for artillery spotting, and these have been used by Russian forces in Ukraine since well before the full-scale invasion of February 2022. Since then, they have also been adapted to carry electronic warfare payloads, according to Russian reports.

It was Juice who provided The War Zone with some of the most in-depth accounts of battling Russian drones in the skies over Ukraine, including the notorious Iranian-supplied Shaheds. These entered the war only after Russia started using cruise missiles, after which both types of weapons were used to bombard key military and civilian infrastructure targets.

https://twitter.com/Osinttechnical/status/1580265658096361472?s=20

I mentioned before about cruise missiles and the situation with drones is even worse, especially during the nighttime, Juice said, in December last year. Its very difficult to search and track and to engage these types of threats.

Small and slow-flying like the Shahed, the Orlan is also a very tricky target for a fighter like the MiG.

An Orlan-30 drone. Vitaly V. Kuzmin/Wikimedia Commons

As Juice explained, even generating a firing solution on a small-sized drone is difficult, with the picture on the radar screen looking deceptively similar to a flock of birds, or a truck moving along a road.

In the case of kamikaze drones like the Shahed, these are normally encountered at night, while the Orlan typically flies in daylight hours, as in the interception video.

A Shahed drone during attacks in Kyiv on October 17, 2022. Photo by YASUYOSHI CHIBA/AFP via Getty Images

As for the engagement distance, with the drone seemingly very close to the MiG that fired upon it, this is a reality that Juice also previously reflected upon. He observed that the Soviet-era missiles in current Ukrainian use can normally engage small drones at distances of only a few kilometers, depending on altitude and speed.

Juice at the controls of an unarmed Ukrainian Air Force MiG-29 during a training flight. Yurii Kysil

While using fighters to tackle small drones is by no means easy, Ukraines ground-based air defenses have also struggled with these targets, which are not only hard to shoot down but also difficult to detect in the first place. Above all, drones flying at ultra-low altitudes require very extensive radar cover, on a scale that is technically and economically unfeasible.

Its for this reason that Ukraine has begun to establish visual surveillance posts, together with an app with which civilians can submit their own drone warnings. At the same time, extensive use has been made of mobile fire groups, often using pick-ups or small trucks armed with powerful spotlights and laser pointers, heavy machine guns, cannons, and man-portable air defense systems (MANPADS).

With a relentless drone war being waged by both sides in the war in Ukraine, the threat posed by these kinds of uncrewed aircraft is only set to increase. Clearly, Soviet-era fighters such as the MiG-29 are still capable of shooting down smaller drones, but they are not ideal for the job. At the same time, the supply of Western ground-based air defense systems will help, but these cannot provide anywhere near the kind of coverage offered by jets. With that in mind, the Ukrainian Air Force will be looking forward to the expanded capabilities offered by the F-16 fighters that its now set to receive, which are better equipped to tackle smaller targets thanks to their superior radar.

Contact the author: thomas@thedrive.com
THE DRIVING FORCE OF THE ECONOMY: Currently, 739 thousand Ukrainians are officially employed in Poland alone

There is a direct connection between Polands economic miracle and Ukrainian workers, which is only strengthened by the influx of war refugees in need of work.

Read also: Poland, Latvia, Lithuania may close borders with Belarus if critical incident occurs

43-year-old Olena Scherbanivska from Kyiv went to Poland in March of 2022 with her three children. She worked as a financial manager at Ukraines Veres food conglomerate before the war. Now she has a job in an accounting office in Nowy Targ in southern Poland, not far from the resort town of Zakopane.

"Initially, I was registered for an internship by the local employment office, and when I completed it, I applied for an official job," says Shcherbanivska.

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She currently earns the minimum monthly wage of 2,783 zlotys (approximately 25,500 UAH, or $670). But this money and her child welfare payments (500 zlotys, 4,500 UAH, or around $120) are not enough.

"We need to pay for housing, boarding school for my older son, kindergarten for my younger one, food, medicine, travel, and also utility bills in Kyiv. The costs are high," she explains.

On the other hand, she says, her earnings will grow as she gains experience and improves her Polish language skills. Thus, she is working not only for today, but for the future.

And there are plenty of such workers in Poland today: currently, according to various estimates, there are 2 million Ukrainians in the country. Most of them are employed in one way or another, thereby helping to grow the local economy.

Read also:

Even before Russias full-scale invasion, Ukrainians had significantly increased the workforce in the Polish labor market. Before the war, almost 1.5 million Ukrainian citizens had jobs in Poland  from seasonal workers to permanent ones, says Andrzej Korkus, chairman of the board of EWL Group.

"According to the National Bank of Poland, the contribution of Ukrainian migration to Poland's GDP growth in 2014-2018 was as much as 11%!" he adds.

After February 2022, Ukrainian labor migrants were also joined by refugees. According to Gremi Personal, an international employment company, there are currently 739,000 Ukrainians working officially in Poland. In 2021, according to Polands Central Statistics Office, there were only 325,000. At the same time, Ukrainians are now the number one foreign nationality in the Polish labor market.

"The majority of Ukrainian citizens living in Poland are currently women who have children and who often work in positions below their qualifications," adds Korkus.

But the growing Polish economy is also absorbing these human resources.

People from the east

EWL Group and the University of Warsaws Center for East European Studies ventured to take a closer look at Ukrainians who have ended up in Poland.

Their research this year showed that only 4% of adults from Ukraine who moved to Poland are beyond working age. More than half of those who are currently in the countrys capital have a higher or incomplete higher education, and one in three has a professional and technical education (32 %). In addition, slightly more than a third know the Polish language at a good or very good level. Almost 80% of Ukrainians in Poland are employed.

Read also: Will the Ukrainian economy survive Russia's war of attrition? - opinion

At the same time, more than half of Ukrainian citizens working in Poland would recommend employment in this country to their friends and relatives.

"Almost two-thirds of survey respondents are migrants who arrived in Poland before Feb. 24, 2022 (60 %), and a bit more than a third are war refugees who arrived after the start of the full-scale war in Ukraine (40 %)," the EWL report explains.

39-year-old Kateryna Vinnyk belongs to the latter category. She has a degree in economics, and before the war worked as an advertising sales manager. In March of 2022, she found herself in the town of Orneta in the Warmian-Masurian Voivodeship in Polands northeast.

"The town is small, and there are no industrial enterprises. It is very difficult to find a job without knowing the language. I was glad for any opportunity to earn money," she says.

She has a job as a cleaner, which was provided by the city administration. "My friend found a place in a bakery cutting and packing bread six nights a week. The salary, like mine, is minimal. Hours are 10:00 p.m. to 3:00 a.m.," Vinnyk adds.

Women's lot

According to Anna Jobolda, director of the recruitment department of Gremi Personal, the key trend of the labor market in Poland is a noticeable lack of men. It is most difficult to fill jobs traditionally held by them, as well as those that require additional qualifications, like welders, carpenters, and electricians.

Read also: Poland bracing for possible Belarusian provocations to disrupt stability

The increase in the share of women with children among Ukrainians in Poland has posed a challenge for the local labor market, experts say. After all, before the full-scale invasion, Ukrainian migrant workers were generally men who found work in key sectors of the economy like manufacturing, construction, logistics, and transport. Currently, some of them have left, and potential employees much more likely to be women has prompted employers to adjust workplaces accordingly if possible, such as by introducing more flexible schedules, providing help in placing children in educational institutions, and even speeding up automation processes.

"For example, employers which have production lines where it is necessary to lift loads, say up to 20 kg, have automated them by bringing in some additional machines," says Maria Kuzenko, head of the legalization department at EWL.

Lyudmila Martynyuk, 45, from Dnipro, is an economist with a degree. Before the full-scale invasion, she had worked for a long time with a Ukrainian cosmetics manufacturer. But the companys plant in Kharkiv stopped operations.

"I had a good job and a company car. The war started, and my husband and I lost our jobs," says Martynyuk. For some time, her family did volunteer work, but after six months, Martynyuk left for Poland with her friend in search of income. "We decided to try. We had never worked with our hands or standing in a factory before," she admits.

Read also: Ukraine confirms force landing across Dnipro River in Kherson Oblast

With the help of a foreign employment company, the women first arrived at a car seat belt factory near Wrocaw, working eight-hour shifts.

"We worked there from September to December. I received about 2.4 thousand zlotys [21,900 UAH, $580], says Lyudmila.

"But we wanted to earn more and be closer to our children studying in Lublin," so the women moved to the city of Starachowice, getting a job through the same company at a factory that produces electrical wiring for large cars. For more than half a year, Martynyuk managed to work various jobs, willingly taking on extra hours. Working 12-hour shifts, her earnings reached almost 5 thousand zlotys (45,600 UAH, $1,210), of which approximately 400 zlotys (3,600 UAH, $97) went to food, and 350 zlotys (3,200 UAH, $85) to pay for a bed in a hostel, she says. "Decent income," she summarizes.

Looking for quick employment

On average, there are about 14,000 job searches for Ukrainians on the Polish version of the international job search site Jooble every month. The largest numbers are in the cities of Katowice, Szczecin and Wroclaw, explains Jooble analyst Victoria Novosad.

According to her, the service and healthcare industries have the largest number of search queries. As for specific vacancies, Ukrainians most often want to be employed as drivers of various types, in social care, or engage in seasonal agriculture work.

"Also, people are often looking for jobs with quick employment, part-time jobs, or just any well-paid jobs," adds Novosad.

Even in winter, according to the expert, more work was sought by women. In the summer period, searches for work "for students" and "part-time work for minors" are popular. There are also lots of openings in supermarket chains like Biedronka and Lidl.

There is always a shortage of seasonal workers in Poland, says Kuzenko from EWL.

Read also: Thousands of office workers evacuated from Moscow complex after drone attack warning

"We are still being approached with various requests: one company needs 300 workers yesterday, another needs 500 for tomorrow. This signals that there is a need here  both for men and women," she says.

On the part of Polish employers, Ukrainians currently have an average of 5,000 vacancies available on the Jooble platform every month, most of them in Warsaw, Krakow, and Wroclaw.

"In winter, a larger number of vacancies for Ukrainians in Poland concerned job offers in stores / supermarkets, in sales, and with warehouse administration," says Novosad.

At the same time, in the summer months, there are more vacancies in the fields of production and construction: they are looking for mechanics, electricians, builders, welders, and the like.

"As of July, popular vacancies in Poland for Ukrainians include offers for seasonal work in restaurant and hospitality," she adds.

There are also many offers for drivers of various categories and delivery drivers. Vacancies for white-collar workers, like software developers or project managers, are less abundant, Novosad explains.

At the same time, Ukrainians are increasingly beginning to occupy more highly qualified positions, notes Anna Jobolda from Gremi Personal.

"Our compatriots are also starting to work in IT, sales, HR, management, personnel work, and finance," she says.

She connects this not only with the Ukrainians increasing integration in Poland, but also with the fact that many Ukrainian businesses have started working on the local market and are hiring their compatriots for various positions. "Ukrainian businesses that open here primarily hire Ukrainians," Jobolda explains.

The three most popular vacancies at Gremi Personal are currently line cook, produce picker, and assistant cook. The service sector also dominates the top ten.

"These are the vacancies that are most often chosen by our clients when they contact us for work. Our company recruits from 80 to 200 people a day," explains Jobolda. According to her, the most vacancies are in the field of food industry and logistics, like packaging.

According to Jobolda, approximately 60-70% of those who come to Poland after the full-scale invasion start working without knowing the language, so they mostly choose low-skilled professions.

"But we are also seeing another trend. Before the war, the majority of Ukrainian wage earners did not actively study the language, and now almost 80% of them are immediately taking up Polish," she adds. In her opinion, this is due to the desire to integrate and later get a more qualified job.

A growing market

Even despite the increased flow of Ukrainians who were forced to flee from the war, Polish companies still lack workers. "They are still actively looking for them and opening new markets," says Kuzenko from EWL.  The Polish economy is developing. It is a sponge that can soak up a lot of human capital."

Even in the industrial sector, in logistics and areas that do not require any particular work experience or skills, there are still many unfilled jobs, she adds.

Read also:

Poland's economy is really gaining momentum. The standard of living in Wroclaw or Warsaw is comparable to Berlin, Paris, or London, according to a recent article by UKs The Telegraph. Its authors highlight the fact that GDP per capita at purchasing power parity in Poland has already reached $35,600. This figure is $44,200 in the UK, $43,100 in France, and $ 50,200 in Germany.

"On the current trajectory, Poland will overtake Great Britain by 2030," the article concluded.

The Polish market, with its approximately 9 million employed people, has an unemployment rate of only 2.9%, which is half the European average (5.9%). Moreover, according to the Occupational Barometer 2022 study, it is in dire need of a variety of construction workers, medical workers (from nurses to psychotherapists), electricians, fitters, carpenters, welders, as well as cooks, bakers, transport and logistics workers, and even accountants. After all, the national economy is growing: GDP in 2022 will reach $688 billion (20th place in the world), having increased by 4.9%.

At the same time, the competition for labor in the EU has not disappeared even despite the migration crisis caused by the war. In addition to Poland, a number of other European countries have also opened their doors to Ukrainians. In Germany, there are now seven times more Ukrainians in the country than there were before 2022: by the beginning of 2023, there were 1 million Ukrainians on the banks of the Rhine.

Read also:

At the same time, Poland is not always managing to keep Ukrainians. For example, 32-year-old Oleksandra Puzan, who specializes in video game sound design, spent three months in Warsaw, but is now in Montreal, Canada.

In total, 24% of EWL migrants from Ukraine who were interviewed were looking for employment opportunities outside of Poland during the last year: the majority were interested in Germany, and one in four was interested in the Czech Republic.

In addition, many Ukrainians who left their homes after Feb. 24, 2022, are returning home.

Therefore, experts are sure that Poland will continue to need workers from the east. They will become one of the drivers of the countrys economic growth.

Read also: Ukraine and Poland sign landmark railway agreement after almost 30 years

In 1998, then-U.S. President Bill Clinton said: "America is constantly gaining strength and spirit from the arrival of wave after wave of immigrants." It seems that this is something that a future president of Poland may one day say, but with reference to Ukrainian workers.

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Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
Giant panda Yi Yi waits to board a plane at the Kuala Lumpur International Airport in Sepang, Malaysia, Aug. 29, 2023. Giant panda cubs Yi Yi and Sheng Yi returned to China late on Tuesday, bringing their stay in Malaysia to a close as they reach maturity.(Xinhua/Cheng Yiheng)

KUALA LUMPUR, Aug. 29 (Xinhua) -- Giant panda cubs Yi Yi and Sheng Yi returned to China late on Tuesday, bringing their stay in Malaysia to a close as they reach maturity.

At a brief ceremony held at the Giant Panda Conservation Center in Zoo Negara, Deputy Natural Resources, Environment and Climate Change Minister Huang Tiong Sii said Yi Yi, who is now five years old, had been scheduled to return in 2020, but this was postponed due to the pandemic.

"Considering that Sheng Yi also reached 24 months of age last May, the China Wildlife Conservation Association (CWCA) has agreed to Malaysia's proposal to send the third Giant Panda cub back together with Yi Yi," he said.

He also commended the important role the giant pandas, including their parents, have played in fostering closer ties between China and Malaysia.

"Yi Yi, meaning friendship, and Sheng Yi, meaning peace and friendship, have been chosen as the names for the two Giant Panda cubs born to the loving pair Xing Xing and Liang Liang, who arrived in Malaysia on May 21, 2014. These meaningful names reflect the significance of friendship and peace, and symbolize the strong bond between Malaysia and China," he explained.

The cubs are the second and third cubs born in Malaysia: Yi Yi was born on Jan. 14, 2018, and Sheng Yi was born on May 31, 2021. The first cub born in Malaysia, Nuan Nuan, traveled back to China in November 2017.

Their parents Xing Xing and Liang Liang, who celebrated their 17th birthday last week, will stay on in Malaysia for the time being.

Zoo Negara said in a statement that the cubs would remain in their hearts and minds through good memories and strong bonds that have been developed between the zoo's staff, handlers and visitors and the giant panda family.

"Their playful antics, gentle roars and endearing presence have seamlessly woven themselves into the very fabric of our zoo's identity. From their first hesitant steps to their mischievous adventures, every moment was a testament to the sheer joy and wonder these pandas brought to all who crossed their path," the statement said.

Chin Chet Mooi, a volunteer who has dedicated her time and effort to the bears since Xing Xing and Liang Liang first arrived in Malaysia in 2014, said the moment of farewell is one of bittersweet memories and she understood the need for them to return home.

"Their future is in China. We have done our best to take care of them. They are going back to fresh air and snow. I am really looking forward to seeing photos and videos of them playing in the snow in China," she said, adding that she hoped to be able to make a trip to China to see Yi Yi and Sheng Yi as she had previously made a trip to see Nuan Nuan. 

Giant pandas Yi Yi and Sheng Yi board a plane at the Kuala Lumpur International Airport in Sepang, Malaysia, Aug. 29, 2023. Giant panda cubs Yi Yi and Sheng Yi returned to China late on Tuesday, bringing their stay in Malaysia to a close as they reach maturity.(Xinhua/Cheng Yiheng)

Giant panda Sheng Yi waits to board a plane at the Kuala Lumpur International Airport in Sepang, Malaysia, Aug. 29, 2023. Giant panda cubs Yi Yi and Sheng Yi returned to China late on Tuesday, bringing their stay in Malaysia to a close as they reach maturity.(Xinhua/Cheng Yiheng)

Giant panda caretaker Akmal Hadi Samsuddin feeds giant panda Yi Yi at the Kuala Lumpur International Airport in Sepang, Malaysia, Aug. 29, 2023. Giant panda cubs Yi Yi and Sheng Yi returned to China late on Tuesday, bringing their stay in Malaysia to a close as they reach maturity.(Xinhua/Cheng Yiheng)

Staff members take photos of giant panda Yi Yi at the Kuala Lumpur International Airport in Sepang, Malaysia, Aug. 29, 2023. Giant panda cubs Yi Yi and Sheng Yi returned to China late on Tuesday, bringing their stay in Malaysia to a close as they reach maturity.(Xinhua/Cheng Yiheng)

Giant panda Yi Yi eats at the Kuala Lumpur International Airport in Sepang, Malaysia, Aug. 29, 2023. Giant panda cubs Yi Yi and Sheng Yi returned to China late on Tuesday, bringing their stay in Malaysia to a close as they reach maturity.(Xinhua/Cheng Yiheng)
At least 9,511 civilians have been killed in Ukraine since the start of the full-scale invasion, the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) said on Aug. 28.

In its latest civilian casualty update, the OHCHR reported 17,206 civilians as injured, bringing the total number of civilian casualties to 26,717.

Out of the 7,396 civilian deaths recorded on Ukrainian-controlled territory, over half were killed in Donetsk and Luhansk oblasts. 3,176 people were killed in other regions of Ukraine.

Additionally, 2,115 civilians have been recorded as killed in parts of Ukraine occupied by Russian forces.

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The OHCHR added that the true numbers are likely to be "considerably higher," as the UN is unable to confirm information from areas where there are "intense hostilities."

This includes cities like the Russian-occupied city Mariupol in Donetsk Oblast. The brutal three-month-long siege left most of the city destroyed and is estimated to have killed tens of thousands of its inhabitants.

Over the last reporting period in August 2023, the OHCHR recorded 585 civilian casualties in Ukraine, 108 of which were killed. The death toll includes five children.

The Prosecutor General's Office reported on Aug. 19 that 502 Ukrainian children have been officially reported killed since the start of Russia's full-scale invasion last year.

The OHCHR recorded 748 civilian casualties in the previous reporting period in July 2023. The number included 143 people killed.

Read also: Stolen generation. Russia systematically abducts children from Ukraine, gives them to Russian families

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HILLSBOROUGH, N.C.  A graduate student at the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill was charged Tuesday with fatally shooting a professor  the latest incident in a spate of national gun violence  leaving a college community reeling and authorities trying to determine a motive.

Tailei Qi, an applied physical sciences major from China, made his first court appearance in Orange County Court, where he was charged with first-degree murder and ordered held without bond.

Qi, 34, was shackled in an orange jumpsuit and relied on a Chinese translator. He was also charged with possession of a gun on an educational property, which is expected to be upgraded from a misdemeanor to a felony.

His public defender made no public statement after the hearing. A probable cause hearing was scheduled for Sept. 18.

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The murder charge carries a punishment of a life sentence without parole. Jeff Nieman, the district attorney for Chatham and Orange counties, said after Tuesday's hearing that he would not seek the death penalty.

So far police have not said why Qi is believed to have targeted Zijie Yan, an associate professor in the applied sciences department since 2019.

Aidan Carter Scott, 22, a computer science major, said Yan had been one of the suspect's advisers.

"I had had contact with the shooter two semesters ago and had helped him with his homework in our machine learning class," Scott said.

Scott said Qi struggled to keep up with the course material.

"It always seemed to me like he didnt really know what was going on in the class, but it always seemed like he meant well and was doing his best to stay on track," he said.

A university department web page that has been removed had listed Qi as being a member of Yans lab group.

Qi was arrested Monday afternoon after the shooting at Caudill Labs, a science building on campus, which prompted an hourslong lockdown that forced students and faculty members to barricade themselves in classrooms and dorms as authorities searched for the shooter.

Image: Tailei Qi makes his first appearance at the Orange County Courthouse in Hillsborough, N.C., on Aug. 29, 2023. (Hannah Schoenbaum / AP)

The attack, which occurred in the second week of the fall semester, began when students were alerted to an armed and dangerous person after 1 p.m. The university said in another alert at 2:24 p.m. that the shooter remained at large. A photo of an unnamed person was released, and Qi was arrested later in a residential neighborhood near campus.

Videos shared on social media showed panicked students hiding in classrooms and others climbing out of the windows of a campus building. The lockdown was lifted at about 4:15 p.m.

UNC Police Chief Brian James said the lockdown, which included neighboring public schools, continued even after the suspect was taken into custody as law enforcement agencies verified his identity and investigated reports of potential other victims.

"We had to ensure that the entire campus was safe," he said Monday.

No other injuries were reported.

James declined to say Tuesday whether other people may have been in the room when the shooting occurred. He said that officers responding to the scene did not encounter Qi and that "he must have exited that building very quickly."

On his LinkedIn profile, Qi says he enrolled at UNC's flagship campus in January 2022 as a graduate student and research assistant, and he shares links to papers about his research in metal nanoparticles. A paper published last month in the journal Advanced Optical Materials was co-written with Yan.

Qi's LinkedIn profile says he previously studied at Louisiana State University and schools in China, including Wuhan University, before he came to North Carolina.

The firearm, described as a 9 mm handgun, was not immediately recovered. Authorities said they would be interviewing Qi about a motive.

James said that investigators were still trying to determine the nature of the relationship between the suspect and the victim and that they would be reviewing any social media accounts Qi appeared to use.

Investigators are "looking at what his intentions were and why he actually did it," James told reporters Tuesday.

Qi has had previous contact with law enforcement. He was pulled over for allegedly speeding in Orange County in February and then again two days before the shooting, when a state trooper issued him a citation for driving about 20 mph above the speed limit on an interstate, according to the court in neighboring Alamance County.

Kevin Guskiewicz, UNC-Chapel Hill's chancellor, said Tuesday that classes would be canceled again Wednesday and that the bells in the campus' well-known Bell Tower would ring in honor of Yan at 1:02 p.m.

"We will continue to ask questions and find ways to make our safety procedures even more effective," Guskiewicz said. "We know that the wounds of this tragedy will not heal quickly."

Kate Martin reported from Hillsborough and Erik Ortiz from New York.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
Law enforcement and first responders respond to the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill campus in Chapel Hill, N.C., on Monday, Aug. 28, 2023, after the university locked down and warned of an armed person on campus. | Hannah Schoenbaum, Associated Press

Just days after a new term started at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, a faculty member was shot and killed on campus.

The school shooting sent the campus into lockdown Monday as police searched for a suspect.

Around 1 p.m. Monday, police received reports of gunfire at Caudill Labs, a science building at the universitys Chapel Hill campus. About 90 minutes later, as students barricaded themselves in classrooms across the campus, the suspect was detained, The Associated Press reported.

The name of the faculty member has not been released yet.

Who is the suspect in the UNC shooting?

UNC Police did not release the name of the suspect, and formal charges have not been filed yet.

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However, WRAL News identified the suspect as Tailei Qi, a 34-year-old PhD student studying applied physical sciences at the university.

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Police apprehended Qi about two miles north of campus, and he is being held in the Orange County Detention Center.

What was the motive?

UNC police were working to determine a motive and to find the gun used in the shooting, The New York Times reported.

It is too early in this investigation to know a motive for the shooting, UNC Police Chief Brian James said Monday.

I am devastated and saddened by todays shooting in one of our campus buildings, a place where we conduct our important work of teaching, mentoring and research every day, UNC Chancellor Kevin M. Guskiewicz stated in an email sent to students.

Our hearts are with the family of our fellow faculty member, those who are personally connected to the victim and those traumatized by this senseless act of violence.

This is the 49th school shooting in the U.S. this year alone, according to CNN.
The graduate student accused of fatally shooting a UNC professor on campus Monday will be held in jail without bail, a judge ruled Tuesday, and the district attorney will not seek the death penalty.

Tailei Qi entered the courtroom at the Orange County Courthouse in an orange jail jumpsuit and chains around his wrists and waist. He glanced around the room and looked at the wall of cameras recording the hearing from the far side of the room.

Qi, 34, is accused of first-degree murder in the death of associate professor Zijie Yan, and with possessing a 9 mm pistol on educational property.

Judge Sherri Murrell agreed to appoint capital defenders to represent Qi, who could be sentenced to life in prison if convicted on the murder charge.

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The gun charge carries a maximum punishment of two years in prison.

Tailei Qi is escorted into the Orange County Courthouse for his first court appearance on Tuesday, August 29, 2023 in Hillsborough, N.C. Qi, a graduate student at the University of North Carolina in Chapel Hill, N.C., faces first-degree murder charges in the shooting of a faculty member

District Attorney Jeff Nieman said an eyewitness led law enforcement officers to Qi in a neighborhood off campus after a 911 caller had reported shots fired inside Caudill Labs on South Road at 1:02 p.m..

The university sounded alarms and issued an Alert Carolina message about an armed and dangerous person on or near campus, sending the campus into lockdown for three hours.

This has been the definition of a cooperative investigation, Nieman added after officials noted Monday night that Chapel Hill police, the Orange County Sheriffs Office, the District Attorneys Office, N.C. State Highway Patrol and FBI were all assisting UNC Police in the investigation.

Nieman said he will not seek the death penalty against Qi.

He ran for district attorney two years ago, stating then that he would not seek the death penalty as Orange County prosecutor.

The death penalty is cruel, racist, expensive and is not a deterrent, he wrote then. It is also the only punishment we cant undo, he added.

Although the death penalty still exists in North Carolina, no one has been executed by the state since 2006 due to state law requiring a licensed medical professional to administer lethal injections. Many major medical institutions, including the American Medical Association, deem the practice unethical for physicians to participate in.

As criminal proceedings progress, plea agreements can be reached with the district attorneys office. In some cases, defendants can avoid a jury trial by pleading guilty to lesser charges.

What we know about the suspect

Police have not divulged a possible motive for the shooting.

Qi joined the Department of Applied Physical Sciences at UNC Chapel Hill in 2022, after finishing a masters degree at Louisiana State University. Before that, he completed an undergraduate degree in Physics from Wuhan University in China, according to his lab profile.

He was one of three PhD students in the Yan Research group, according to its website. The group studies photonics and material sciences.

On Twitter, Qi posted about his experience as a graduate student.

In one post, he described himself as very enthusiastic talking about research and wrote he would like to make some new friends. He also described working 60 to 80 hour weeks in the lab.

In an Aug. 18, 2022 Tweet, he appeared to describe a conflict within in his lab.Just have a talk with my PI and get his promise He should have more experience to handle with these girls and tattletales, Qi wrote.

A PI, or principal investigator, is often the leader of a research group who PhD students report to.

Two months earlier he tweeted:Just feel my privacy was insulted.  I was showing the boss I am working instead of interests, devaluing the meaning of my work, he wrote. Thats so disgusting. Self-respect block me from working.
Students and faculty at UNC-Chapel Hill likely entered their second week of the fall semester expecting to learn about things like world history and chemical reactions.

Instead, they spent much of Monday afternoon barricaded inside lecture halls and bathrooms as police searched for an armed and dangerous person on campus.

Instead, they learned what its like to live an all-too-familiar nightmare, and one faculty member was killed in the shooting.

Down the road, students in Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools ended their first day of school in lockdown  including kindergarteners who set foot in the classroom this morning for the very first time. They couldnt even spend one day feeling safe at school without being touched by gun violence.

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Its just another day in America.

For more than three hours, the community sheltered in place and waited for updates. They fielded texts from concerned family and friends. They asked themselves questions like Am I sitting far away from the window? and Is there anything in this classroom I could use as a weapon? Rumors and media reports with unverified and sometimes conflicting information only added to the fear and confusion.

Shortly after 4 p.m., an Alert Carolina message gave the official all-clear and told people on campus to resume normal activities.

If only it were that easy.

The effects of our countrys gun violence epidemic are often measured with statistics: the frequency of mass shootings, the number of fatalities, the number of people who have lost a loved one to gun violence.

But the fallout is actually much larger. History will remember what happened at UNC as a tragedy with one victim, but thousands more were left deeply shaken. The people on campus on Monday will never forget how it felt. They wont forget the terror of hearing gunshots. They wont forget telling their family members that they love them, just in case. They wont forget the three hours they spent hiding and fearing for their lives.

That experience is traumatizing. And it is a symptom of the sick reality we live in now  one in which students live through lockdowns and practice active shooter drills before they even learn how to read. In which students are stripped of their sense of security in a place they should always feel safe.

What the UNC-Chapel Hill community experienced today is horrifically, inexcusably, tragically normal. It happens far too often to reasonably be considered shocking or rare. In fact, it happens with such frequency that Gen Z has been dubbed the lockdown generation.

At this time, police have not released information about the suspect or a possible motive. But make no mistake, guns are the problem. They are always the problem. As much as Republicans blame gun violence on mental health  and they have already begun to mention it in connection with this tragedy, without even knowing details  we all know that senseless gun deaths would not happen without guns.

As a UNC alum, Im heartbroken for my alma mater. Im also angry. Im angry for the first-year students who had to look for hiding places on a campus they havent had time to familiarize themselves with yet, and Im angry for the elementary school parents who have to have tough conversations with their kids tonight at the dinner table. Im angry for the victims family  yet another family who has lost a loved one to an entirely preventable tragedy. They deserve so much better. We all do.

Perhaps most infuriating is the fact this tragedy will probably change nothing. There will be no new laws, only half-hearted commitments to making us safer. So it will happen again, here or somewhere else, and more people will be left traumatized and grieving. Like I said, its just another day in America.
The image of the UNC student newspapers front page is getting national attention the day after a fatal shooting stunned the Chapel Hill campus.

Tuesday night, Caitlyn Yeade, The Daily Tar Heels print managing editor, unveiled the front page of Wednesdays print edition on X, formerly known as Twitter.

Its a full page of text messages sent and received by students covered the front  mostly in black type, some in red. The page starts with Are you safe? Where are you? Are you alone? and ends with this: Dont stop texting me.

The dramatic image represented the culmination of over 24 hours of coverage provided by the independent student news outlet after the lockdown paralyzed the campus. A professor was fatally shot with a graduate student charged with first-degree murder for his death.

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I shed many tears while typing up these heart-wrenching text messages sent and received by UNC students yesterday, Yeade wrote.

The tweet with the front page had thousands of likes, retweets and bookmarks within hours.

Like any news outlet, the staff of The Daily Tar Heel sprung into action to report on the major story of the day: sorting through conflicting updates, making decisions about when to publish details of the investigation.

But unlike other news outlets, the students were living the fear and anxiety in real time moment by moment. On the first day of the second week of classes of a new school year, they were huddled for three hours in classrooms and closets, unsure of what was happening in a classroom building in the central part of campus.

Monday afternoon, Emmy Martin, editor-in-chief of The Daily Tar Heel, tweeted a link to a story about the lockdown that had paralyzed the UNC campus in Chapel Hill.

Currently covering the active dangerous situation on UNCs campus, live updates posted here, she wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter, linking to a story from the universitys independent student newspaper.

She followed that with a post that showed how close she was to the situation: I am sheltering/in lockdown in a campus building with about 30 other students.

Atmosphere is tense, but folks are remaining calm. Its been 2.5 hours since we received the first alert about an armed person on campus. Waiting for more information from UNC on what to do.

Students report from lockdown

The story from the DTH, as the paper is known, reported the first campus alert at 1:04 p.m. The same story was updated at least 14 times over the course of Monday into Tuesday, and students posted live updates on X from a press conference with the chancellor and police chief.

On Tuesday, reporters and a photographer were dispatched to the Orange County Courthouse in Hillsborough for the suspects first appearance.

They wrote about classes being canceled for the second consecutive day.

And opinion columnist Zari Taylor, a Ph.D student and instructor, wrote how todays students have grown up in an era of shootings at schools and universities; those who survived the Sandy Hook Elementary mass shooting are now in college, Taylor wrote. These kinds of shootings, she wrote, have become the norm.

Because these incidents occur so frequently, we can become desensitized and numb to them  even when theyre so close to home, Taylor wrote. We often want to resume a normal after such occurrences, but how can we when there has just been so much loss? How much time is enough?

Georgia Roda-Moorhead wrote a column about collapsing in her mothers arms an hour away after she got the all-clear to leave her barricaded classroom. The headline of her column: A love letter to those grieving: You are not alone.
United Nations Childrens Fund (UNICEF) published a report on Aug. 28, calling attention to the fact that some Ukrainian children are facing their fourth year of online schooling ahead of the start of the new school year on Sep. 1.

Education in Ukraine was first disrupted due to the Covid-19 pandemic and then the full-scale war.

Schools shut on Feb. 24, 2022, when Russia launched its invasion and many have not reopened due to the threat of Russian attacks.

As a result, a third of Ukrainian schoolchildren learn online. One third of children learn fully in-person, and another third learn in a hybrid approach.

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About half of Ukrainian teachers believe there has been a decline in the language, reading, and mathematics skills of their students since then, according to UNICEF.

UNICEF cites the case of Viktoria, a 12-year-old girl living in Kherson, a place where schools teach exclusively online due to the constant threat of Russian attacks.

She is now one of three children left in her class, which numbered 33 before the outbreak of the full-scale invasion.

Since February 2022, over 3,500 educational institutions in Ukraine have been damaged or destroyed, UNICEF reported in July.

Most recently, on Aug. 23, a Russian attack drone struck a school in Romny, Sumy Oblast, killing four people and injuring four others.

The bodies of the school principal, deputy principal, secretary, and librarian were retrieved from under the rubble. They were in the building to prepare for the start of the school year.

Due to the necessity of online teaching, UNICEF said it has provided 20,000 tablets and laptops to Ukrainian schoolchildren thanks to funding from the European Union and South Korea. 30,000 more laptops will be distributed in the coming months.

Ukraine's Education Ministry is developing a course in cooperation with UNICEF on mine safety for Ukrainian schoolchildren, the ministry announced on Aug. 14.

The course will become a mandatory part of the curriculum.

Read also: Thats it, its death, guys. What we know about Russias killing of 2 Ukrainian teenagers in occupied Berdiansk





Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
The University of Michigan continued to scramble Tuesday to restore internet services at its Ann Arbor, Flint and Dearborn campuses, but officials are now saying the outage is under investigation and could take "several days" to fix.

The disruption, in its third day, directly affects nearly 120,000 people at all three campuses, including about 65,000 students and 54,000 faculty and staff, and indirectly affects even more people as U-M seeks to solve the problem.

Students are finding the outage jarring and frustrating.

"I cant check classes, assignments," Deborah Sonoiki, a freshman from Lagos, Nigeria, said Tuesday at the Ann Arbor campus. But she added, representing how students are still trying to make the best of it: "Well get through it."

Deborah Sonoiki, 17, of Lagos, Nigeria (center) asks for directions at the information station on the Diag at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, Mich. on Tuesday, Aug. 29, 2023. Information stations are strategically placed around the campus to help direct students to classes and other resources after the internet went down on the University of Michigan campus. The Information Assurance team at the university shut down the internet at all the campuses on Sunday, Aug. 27 at 1:45 p.m. after a significant security concern was found.

For many, the internet outage also is a reminder how reliant society has become on technology, how vulnerable it can be to losing it, and how, especially for those who went to college before the internet, 24/7 digital connectivity dominates college life.

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U-M has been guarded about what caused the outage.

Just before noon, U-M's president, Santa Ono, said in a letter addressed to the "university community" that the disruption was "an unfortunate cloud over an otherwise sunny and glorious start to the academic year" and confirmed federal law enforcement are involved.

"While we will continue to share as much information as possible as this work progresses, we are not able to share any information that might compromise the investigation," Ono said. "I appreciate your understanding as we move through the investigative process."

The FBI told the Free Press it is aware of the internet outage and prepared to provide assistance.

Cybersecurity concerns grow

On the first day of the new semester, tens of thousands of students, faculty, staff and administrators struggled to access their university accounts, class schedules, email, and, even send selfies to their parents, eager to share the photos and Wolverine pride on Facebook.

Tuesday, students continued to try to find their way, as if in the dark.

Educational institutions, along with governments and businesses, are increasingly a target of cyberattacks. And, in a twist, U-M is ranked by U.S. News & World Report as having one of the best undergraduate cybersecurity programs in the nation.

Information stations are strategically placed around the campus to help direct students to classes and other resources after the internet went down on the University of Michigan campus in Ann Arbor, Mich. on Tuesday, Aug. 29, 2023. The Information Assurance team at the university shut down the internet at all the campuses on Sunday, Aug. 27 at 1:45 p.m. after a significant security concern was found.

In January, University of Michigan Health experienced problems with its public websites as a result of a cyberattack on a vendor, according to a statement from the hospital system. U-M Health said it was working with the third party to mitigate the issues.

Last month, the State News reported, Michigan State students got an email from the administration informing them of a violation which may have led to unauthorized access of personal info. Michigan State's systems werent breached, but two companies the university shares student and employee data with were.

Moreover, a study reported in 2022 by a British-based security software company, Sophos, found educational institutions were increasingly under threat, with a growing financial and operational burden. There was a jump in attacks: 66% of respondents reported being hit, up from 37% the year before.

When asked Tuesday for more information about the cause of the disruption, U-M public affairs officials pointed to its statements. The Free Press also left messages seeking more information about the outages with several members of the university's Board of Regents.

Internet access cut off

U-M's internet trouble, which the university acknowledged in a short announcement at about 1:45 p.m. Sunday, began with limited and no access to multiple services including email; Google; Canvas, a content management system; and Wolverine Access, the schools digital gateway.

Information stations are strategically placed around the campus to help direct students to classes and other resources after the internet went down on the University of Michigan campus in Ann Arbor, Mich. on Tuesday, Aug. 29, 2023. The Information Assurance team at the university shut down the internet at all the campuses on Sunday, Aug. 27 at 1:45 p.m. after a significant security concern was found.

"Due to a technology issue internet connectivity will be intermittent or unavailable," the university said, in one of its first descriptions of the disruption. "Service will be restored as quickly as possible. Please monitor @umichtech for updates on the outage."

For the first two days of class in Ann Arbor, students found other ways to share class schedules and essential first-day information. There were taped-up hand-written signs in public places and information stations where students could get assistance face-to-face.

"Weve become their internet," one of people giving directions David Muusz, of Saline  said.

Roger Fisher, 56, of Superior Twp, left, and David Muusz, 42, of Saline, both from Student Life, help direct students to where their classes are after the wireless internet went down on the University of Michigan campus in Ann Arbor, Mich. on Tuesday, Aug. 29, 2023. "Without the internet, we became the internet," says Muusz. The Information Assurance team at the university shut down the internet at all the campuses on Sunday, Aug. 27 at 1:45 p.m. after a significant security concern was found.

Freshman Ben Rosenfield, of Birmingham, told the Free Press he went to three buildings looking for his Russian class and more than 100 students showed up for a chemistry lab lecture before a student announced the class was canceled "and everyone left."

The situation, he added, "honestly sucks!"

More: University of Michigan campuses without internet on 1st day of class

By 10 p.m. Monday, the university posted an update: "We are making progress." But U-M also seemed to suggest that there wouldnt be enough progress to resolve the issue by the next morning. "The next update will be posted by midnight."

At 11:59 p.m., the university urged students, particularly at the Ann Arbor campus, the largest, by far, of the three, "to check public course schedules & locations" and said the next update would be coming at 9 a.m. the next morning.

Authorities are involved

Monday morning, the university apologized "for the ongoing disruption."

It also began to suggest that the problem was more serious and the "difficult decision was made to separate the U-M network from the internet to help mitigate technical issues," and in a later update, indicated that the problem might last awhile.

Among the clues, the university changed the update heading it had been using, "Temporary Internet Outage," to "Campus IT Outage." And while there was no definitive timeline for internet restoration, the university said it could be "several days" before the problem was fixed.

Leopold Hoang, 18, of Houston, stops for directions at an information station on the Diag after the internet went down on Sunday at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, Mich. on Tuesday, Aug. 29, 2023. Hoang says he hasn't even been able to get his syllabi yet and that it's been "a shaky start to his freshman year." Hoang is concerned that his work will pile up without access to the internet and he won't be able to finish his assignments in time.

Still, while wired and wireless internet access was still down, there was a glimmer of hope: Cloud services to Google, Canvas, Zoom, Adobe Cloud, Dropbox, Slack and other services were back online and "reachable when using off-campus and cellular networks."

The update also said classes would still meet and the campus was still open, including dorms, dining halls, and all university offices. The university also said professors and instructors would do their best to communicate with students.

U-M has promised there would be no late registration or disenrollment fees through Thursday, and that "consideration will be given" to students missing classes and assignments.

And near the end of the update, the university added a line that it did not explain, suggesting that more could be behind the outage: "The U-M Division of Public Safety and Security and federal law enforcement partners have been informed and are involved."

Contact Frank Witsil: 313-222-5022 or fwitsil@freepress.com.

This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Is U-M under cyberattack? President confirms probe
ISLAMABAD, Aug. 29 (Xinhua) -- Two policemen have been killed and three others injured in an attack in Pakistan's northwestern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, police said.

The policemen were on a routine patrolling duty in Lakki Marwat district of the province on Monday when they were attacked by unknown militants, the police told media.

The attackers ambushed the police vehicle and sprayed bullets at the cops before fleeing the scene, the police said.

The injured policemen were shifted to a nearby hospital, with one of them in critical condition.

No group has claimed responsibility for the attack yet. 
A faculty member was shot and killed in a campus building and a suspect has been arrested after reports on Monday afternoon of shots fired at the University of North Carolina, school officials have said.

Reports earlier of an apparent shooting at UNCs flagship campus had led students and faculty to barricade themselves in dorm rooms, offices and classrooms for hours until a lockdown was lifted.

About three hours after warning students to seek shelter indoors and avoid windows, the school posted on X, formerly known as Twitter: All clear. All clear. Resume normal activities.

Related: Hurricane Idalia closes in on Florida as residents race to evacuate

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Despite releasing little information at the time, state governor Roy Cooper had posted on X that he had spoken to the Orange county sheriff and the states public safety secretary and pledged all state resources needed to capture the shooter and protect the UNC campus, amid reports that suspect was at large.

About two hours after the first alert went out, officers were still arriving in droves, with about 50 police vehicles at the scene and multiple helicopters circling over the school.

On Monday evening, Kevin Guskiewicz, UNCs chancellor issued a statement to the community, saying he is devastated and saddened by the shooting. This shooting damages the trust and safety that we so often take for granted on our campus. We will work to rebuild that trust and safety, Guskiewicz said.

All classes and campus events for the remainder of Monday and for Tuesday have been cancelled, according to the statement.

Guskiewicz expressed condolences to the victim and their family and offered support to students, faculty and staff.

The shooting came just two days after a gunman perpetrated what law enforcement described as a racially-motivated killing in Jacksonville, Florida, where the shooter opened fire and killed thee Black people at a discount store after being turned away from the campus of a nearby historically Black university.

Mondays UNC lockdown paralyzed campus and parts of the surrounding town of Chapel Hill a week after classes began at the public university, which has approximately 20,000 undergraduate students and 12,000 graduate students.

A student told TV station WTVD that she had barricaded her dormitory door with her furniture. Another student, speaking softly, described hiding in fear with others in a dark bathroom.

Adrian Lanier, a sophomore computer science major, told the Associated Press that he was in a campus gym when the first safety alert was issued. He said he and others sat against a wall, trying to stay as far away as possible from the doors and windows. He sheltered in place for a couple of hours as rumors spread across campus about what was happening.

No one really felt safe enough to leave. I didnt, Lanier said.
A Univision Chicago TV crew was robbed at gunpoint while filming a segment.

The two-man crew was shooting a segment on the uptick of robberies when they were robbed.

Their camera and personal belongings were taken during the encounter but no one was injured.

A Univision Chicago TV crew was robbed at gunpoint while reporting on an uptick of robberies in the city's West Town neighborhood on Monday, Univision Chicago told Insider.

The station said the crew was gathering video for the morning newscast at the time of the robbery.

According to the police report shared with Insider by Univision Chicago, the crew  a 28-year-old man and a 42-year-old man  was outside when a black SUV and gray sedan approached them at approximately 4:53 a.m. local time.

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Three unidentified men wearing ski masks and carrying firearms got out of the cars and approached the crew, according to the police report. They then "took the victims' belongings" and fled the scene, the report said. Police are investigating what happened.

A news camera and two bags with equipment and personal items were stolen, Univision Chicago said.

The station added that they are not releasing the names of the crew members out of privacy concerns. No one was injured during the encounter.

"Gratefully, the crew is safe," Luis Godinez, vice president of news at Univision Chicago, told Insider.

Godinez told the Chicago Tribune that the crew  a reporter and a photographer  was taping a story for the morning news about the uptick in robberies in Chicago's West Town neighborhood. But the footage they shot was stolen along with the camera, so the story never made it to air.

Instead, a story about local robberies was featured on Univision Chicago's 5 p.m. news, which mentioned the incident, but the crew's story was not the focal point.

"We don't want to make the story about us because there were other robberies that occurred within that same period," Godinez told the Tribune.

Read the original article on Insider
By the end of the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan in August 2021, President Joe Biden was sure he made the right decision after watching the events unfold in the Situation Room.

Biden didnt have time to voraciously consume the news, but he was well aware of the coverage, and it infuriated him. It did little to change his mind, though, Franklin Foer writes in his upcoming book, an excerpt of which was released Tuesday. In fact, everything hed witnessed from his seat in the Situation Room confirmed his belief that exiting a war without hope was the best and only course.

So much of the commentary felt overheated to him. He said to an aide: Either the press is losing its mind, or I am, Foer writes.

The chaotic and violent withdrawal from Afghanistan is well-known, but in his new book The Last Politician: Inside Joe Biden s White House and the Struggle for Americas Future, Foer recounts an unflinching look at the previously untold timeline of events leading up to the withdrawal and the aftermath of it. The book, which is set to be released next week from Penguin Random House, recounts the first two years of the Biden presidency, ending with the 2022 midterm elections. Foer is a staff writer at The Atlantic and former editor at The New Republic.

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When National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan relayed the news to Biden that former Afghan President Ashraf Ghani fled the country, he writes, Biden exploded in frustration and said, Give me a break.

In the excerpt, Foer depicts a scene that went viral of the withdrawal: when dozens of Afghans climbed onto the side of a jet to escape the country.

Only after the plane had lifted into the air did the crew discover its place in history, Foer writes. When the pilot couldnt fully retract the landing gear, a member of the crew went to investigate, staring out of a small porthole. Through the window, it was possible to see scattered human remains.

Multiple people were killed during the U.S.-led airlift from Kabul International Airport. The withdrawal received heated criticism, especially from Republican lawmakers who have called for investigations surrounding the departure. Within days of the withdrawal, Biden's poll numbers went down, with a majority of Americans disappointed in his handling of the withdrawal.



When former ambassador to Afghanistan John Bass touched down in Afghanistan after the plane's departure to lead the evacuation effort, he toured the gates of the airport where he was greeted by the smell of feces and urine, by the sound of gunshots and bullhorns blaring instructions in Dari and Pashto.

Dust assaulted his eyes and nose. He felt the heat that emanated from human bodies crowded into narrow spaces, Foer writes.

Biden would shower Bass with ideas to evacuate more people.

The presidents instinct was to throw himself into the intricacies of troubleshooting, Foer writes. Why dont we have them meet in parking lots? Cant we leave the airport and pick them up? Bass would kick around Bidens proposed solutions with colleagues to determine their plausibility, which was usually low. Still, he appreciated Biden applying pressure, making sure that he didnt overlook the obvious.

In total, the United States had evacuated about 124,000 people, which the White House touted as the most successful airlift in history, Foer writes. Bass also thought about the unknown number of Afghans he had failed to get out.
The U.S. State Department announced a new package of military assistance for Ukraine on Aug. 29, including AIM-9M missiles, HIMARS munitions, Javelin systems, and other aid with a total value of $250 million.

The latest tranche further includes 155mm and 105mm artillery ammunition, mine-clearing equipment, various anti-tank systems and rockets, over 3 million rounds of small arms ammunition, ambulances, demolition munitions for obstacle clearing, as well as spare parts, services, training, and transportation.

"Every day, Russia continues to wage a brutal war of conquest that has killed many of Ukraine's civilians and displaced millions of its people," U.S. State Secretary Antony Blinken said.

"Russia started this war and could end it at any time by withdrawing its forces from Ukraine and stopping its brutal attacks. Until it does, the United States and our allies and partners will stand united with Ukraine, for as long as it takes."

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The U.S. official also pointed out that Russia's attacks against Ukraine's ports and agricultural infrastructure are escalating hunger and food insecurity worldwide. Russian forces have targeted Ukrainian ports at least eight times since Moscow's unilateral withdrawal from the Black Sea Grain Initiative on July 17.

The U.S. announced its previous military aid package on Aug. 14, including munitions for Patriot air defense systems and HIMARS, artillery shells, and other support in total value of $200 million.

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The U.S. on Tuesday announced a new security package for Ukraine valued at $250 million, which includes more small arms ammunition and munitions for missiles for Kyiv.

The package announced Tuesday includes AIM-9M air defense missiles and munitions for High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems, both of which have proved indispensable for Kyiv in the war against Russia.

The new assistance also includes more 155 mm and 105 mm artillery ammunition, mine-clearing equipment, Javelin rockets and more than 3 million rounds of small arms ammunition. The announcement also noted ambulances were being provided to Kyiv but did not provide any more specific details.

Today we are announcing a significant new assistance package for Ukraine, Secretary of State Antony Blinken wrote on X, the platform formerly called Twitter. Guided rockets, anti-armor, and other munitions will help Ukraines military forces to defend their countrys sovereignty, territory, and people.

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The latest package brings the U.S. closer to its limit of available Congress-approved funds left for Ukraine. The White House earlier this month asked for an additional $13 billion in security assistance for the embattled nation.

That is setting up a major fight within the GOP, which is increasingly divided between Ukraine supporters and skeptics.

With the latest round of equipment and weapons, total U.S. assistance since the beginning of the war in early 2022 amounts to more than $43 billion, according to The Hills tracking of available public data.

The Pentagon has said accounting errors have freed up billions of dollars but have not been able to make clear exactly how much money has been spent and how much is left.

Last year, Congress approved about $47 billion of assistance for Ukraines direct security needs, with the latest package approved in December.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
The United States on Tuesday announced the provision of another package of military aid to Ukraine, worth US$250 million.

Source: a statement by US Secretary of State Antony Blinken , which is at the disposal of European Pravda

The new package includes AIM-9M anti-air missiles, HIMARS missiles, 155 mm and 105 mm artillery shells, mine clearance equipment, Javelins and other anti-tank systems and missiles.

Blinken's statement also mentioned more than three million rounds of ammunition for small arms, ambulance cars, and explosive ordnance for clearing obstacles, as well as spare parts, funding for services, training and transportation.

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The US Secretary of State does not specify the details, but the new aid package will likely be provided under the Presidential Drawdown Authority mechanism  that is, from the reserves of the US Army, which will speed up its delivery to Ukraine.

Background:

The latest US$200 million aid package, announced by the US on 14 August, included ammunition for air defence systems, artillery shells, anti-tank equipment and mine clearance equipment.

The total sum of the US military aid for Ukraine since the beginning of the Russian full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 is approaching US$44 billion.

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Three US Marines who died when their Osprey aircraft crashed during a military exercise in Australia have been identified by their unit.

Corporal Spencer R. Collart, 21, Captain Eleanor V. LeBeau, 29, and Major Tobin J. Lewis, 37, were among 23 Marines on board the MV-22B Osprey when it crashed on Melville Island around 9:30 a.m. local time Sunday.

Collart was the Osprey crew chief, LeBeau a pilot and Lewis the executive officer of Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 363 (VMM-363), their unit said Monday.

We are deeply saddened by the loss of three respected and beloved members of the MRF-D (Marine Rotational Force-Darwin) family, said Col Brendan Sullivan, their commanding officer of the unit. Our thoughts and prayers remain with the families and with all involved.

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Of the other 20 Marines, three are still being treated in Royal Darwin Hospital. One of them is in critical condition, the other two are stable. The remaining 17 were treated for minor injuries and released.

The cause of the crash is under investigation.

First responders carry out a rescue mission following the crash. - AuBC/AP

US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin offered his condolences to the families of those killed and injured.

These Marines served our country with courage and pride, and my thoughts and prayers are with their families today, with the other troops who were injured in the crash, and with the entire USMC family, he said on X, formerly known as Twitter.

The aircraft that crashed was one of two US Marine Osprey aircraft that left Darwin Sunday morning and flew towards the Tiwi Islands, about 80 kilometers away, Australias Northern Territory Police Commissioner Michael Murphy said.

Sullivan thanked the Australian forces and other groups who helped the Marines following the incident.

We would like to express our sincere gratitude to the Australian Defence Force, Northern Territory Police, Northern Territory Government, CareFlight Air and Mobile Services, NT Health, National Critical Care and Trauma Response Centre, and Tiwi Island Government, who have come together to assist us in this difficult time, Sullivan said.

The crash comes just a month after four Australian army aircrew members died after an MRH-90 Taipan helicopter crashed into the sea near Hamilton Island off the east coast of Australia during an exercise that was part of joint drills with the United States.

It is the latest deadly crash to involve an Osprey aircraft. Generally, Osprey are safe to fly, but the aircraft has had a history of mechanical and operational issues since its inception in the 1980s, CNN military analyst and retired US Air Force Col. Cedric Leighton told CNN This Morning.

A history of crashes

Previous crashes of Osprey aircraft, according to CNN reporting and US Defense Department news releases:

July 20, 1992: Seven people are killed during testing when an Osprey crashes in Virginia.

April 8, 2000: A crash during training in Arizona kills 19 Marines. The crash is blamed on pilot error, with investigators concluding the pilot tried to land too fast and at too steep an angle, causing a loss of lift.

December 11, 2000: Four Marines are killed when an Osprey crashes in North Carolina. The accident is later blamed on problems with a hydraulic part and a software anomaly in the aircrafts computer system.

April 8, 2010: US Air Force Osprey crashes in southern Afghanistan, killing three US service members and one civilian employee.

April 11, 2012: Two US personnel are killed in an Osprey crash in Morocco.

June 13, 2012: An Air Force CV-22 Osprey crashes during a routine training mission north of Navarre, Florida, injuring five.

May 17, 2015: A Marine Corps MV-22 Osprey crashes at Bellows training ground on Oahu, Hawaii, leaving two Marines dead.

December 13, 2016: An MV-22B Osprey lands in shallow waters off Okinawa, Japan, injuring two.

August 5, 2017: An MV-22B Osprey crashes off the coast of Australia, leaving three Marines dead.

September 28, 2017: A Marine Corps MV-22 Osprey crashes in Syria, injuring two service members.

March 18, 2022: Four US service members are killed when the MV-22 Osprey they are traveling in crashes during NATO training exercises in Norway.

June 8, 2022: Five US Marines die after an MV-22 Osprey crashes during a training mission Wednesday near Glamis, California.

CNNs Jake Kwon and Irene Nasser contributed reporting.

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Donald Trump is the front-runner - but for how long?

The race for the 2024 Republican White House nomination is heating up.

Several big-name and dark-horse contenders have joined a crowded field - and some have already called in quits.

All are seeking to unseat the current front-runner, former President Donald Trump, who continues to dominate in national opinion polls.

The eventual winner will challenge the presumptive Democratic nominee, President Joe Biden , in the general election of November next year.

Chris Christie

Former Governor of New Jersey Chris Christie speaks at the Republican Jewish Coalition Annual Leadership Meeting in Las Vegas, Nevada, on 19 November 2022

The former New Jersey governor announced his candidacy on 6 June at a town hall event in New Hampshire - the state that hosts the second contest in the Republican primary race.

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After his own 2016 presidential bid failed, Chris Christie allied himself with Mr Trump, leading the incoming president's transition team and preparing him for debates against Mr Biden in 2020.

But he has become a vociferous critic of Mr Trump since the US Capitol riots.

The sharp-tongued Mr Christie, 60, previewed an attack line on Mr Trump at a New Hampshire town hall in April, saying: "Donald Trump is a TV star, nothing more, nothing less. Let me suggest to you that in putting him back in the White House, the re-runs will be worse than the original show."

Mr Christie served two terms as New Jersey governor from 2010-18. Massively popular in his first term, his second was overshadowed by a political scandal involving bridge lane closures - part of an alleged political vendetta against a Democratic mayor.

Before being elected as governor, Mr Christie served as New Jersey's top prosecutor under President George W Bush from 2002-08, and famously sent Charles Kushner - the father of Mr Trump's son-in-law Jared - to prison.

Ron DeSantis

Ron DeSantis

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has worked hard to emulate Mr Trump, and is often viewed as the candidate most capable of defeating him in a head-to-head race.

Boosted to the governorship by Mr Trump's endorsement in 2018, he romped to re-election in last year's midterms by more than 1.5 million votes, the largest margin in the state in more than four decades. Under his tenure, Republican voters outnumber Democrats in the state for the first time.

At 44 years old, the Harvard and Yale-educated lawyer is still a relative newcomer in US politics.

He once served in the US Navy, including a tour in Iraq. He was also a little-known member of the House of Representatives from 2013 to 2018.

But Mr DeSantis has seen his star rise considerably since he became governor, a role in which he has positioned himself as an enthusiastic culture warrior.

He has backed legislation to defund diversity and inclusion programmes, ban teaching on gender identity in public schools, ban drag shows and gender-affirming care for minors, restrict abortions and loosen gun laws. He is also mired in an escalating legal battle with Walt Disney World.

The governor has touted his record as a "blueprint" for conservative leadership, and supporters have touted him as a drama-free alternative to re-nominating the former president.

Mr Trump has responded by attacking him almost daily on social media.

Though Mr DeSantis enjoyed a considerable lead over most of his Republican rivals in earlier polling, a September poll from the University of New Hampshire suggested his popularity had taken a hit.

It indicates he is currently placed far behind Mr Trump and nearly tied with Vivek Ramaswamy , Nikki Haley and Chris Christie.

Tim Scott

Tim Scott

Senator Tim Scott has a decades-long career in South Carolina politics and entered the race in May with nearly $22m (18m) - more than his rivals - in cash on hand.

The only black man to ever serve in both chambers of Congress, the 57-year-old has represented his home state in the Senate since 2013.

Mr Scott is the grandson of a cotton field worker and the son of a single mother, and he has often spoken of how his family rose "from cotton to Congress" in a lifetime.

He launched his 2024 bid vowing to turn around "a nation in retreat" and revive America's "culture of greatness".

Well-liked among his colleagues, he quickly earned endorsements from two fellow senators, including John Thune, the chamber's second highest-ranking Republican.

But he's not the only South Carolina Republican to throw their hat in the ring.

Nikki Haley

Nikki Haley

Nikki Haley announced her bid for the presidency in mid-February, becoming the first major Republican candidate to commit to taking on Mr Trump.

Once considered one of the Republican Party's brightest young prospects, Ms Haley, 51, has seen her profile diminish in recent years.

Born in South Carolina to Punjabi Sikh immigrants, Ms Haley became the youngest governor in the country in 2009.

She earned national attention in 2015 after calling for the removal of the Confederate flag from the South Carolina Capitol.

Despite saying she was "not a fan" of Mr Trump in 2016, she later accepted his nomination to be the US ambassador to the United Nations, a tenure marked by her dramatic exit from a UN Security Council meeting as a Palestinian envoy was speaking.

Her campaign, which includes a call for mandatory mental competency tests for politicians over 75 years old, stresses the need for "a new generation" of US leaders.

Ms Haley has seen her poll numbers rise since the first Republican debate in August, and they indicate she now ranks second or third with voters in the first three nominating states of Iowa, New Hampshire and South Carolina.

Vivek Ramaswamy

Vivek Ramaswamy speaks during the annual Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) on March 03, 2023

Vivek Ramaswamy, 37, launched his dark-horse White House bid during a late February appearance on the Fox News channel.

An Indian-American biotech entrepreneur with no previous political experience, he was a regular fixture on Fox host Tucker Carlson's daily programme, formerly the most-watched cable news show in the US.

The Harvard and Yale graduate argues the country is in the midst of a national identity crisis driven by a decline in faith, patriotism and meritocracy.

He ran a pharmaceutical company from 2014 to 2021, then co-founded Strive Asset Management, which shirks the "divisive" environmental, social and corporate governance (ESG) framework and offers itself as an alternative to large firms like Blackrock. He is also the author of Woke, Inc.: Inside Corporate America's Social Justice Scam.

Following Mr Trump's federal indictment over his alleged mishandling of classified documents, Mr Ramaswamy vowed that, if elected president, he would pardon Mr Trump of any crimes and criticised the rest of the field for not following his lead.

Like Ms Haley, Mr Ramaswamy has enjoyed more favourable poll numbers since the first Republican debate, during which the political newcomer captured the spotlight.

He drew also controversy that same week over remarks about the 11 September attacks in an interview with the Atlantic.

"I think it is legitimate to say 'How many police, how many federal agents were on the planes that hit the twin towers?'" Mr Ramaswamy said in the interview.

After he said he had been misquoted by the magazine, the Atlantic released audio from the interview showing it was an accurate quote.

Asa Hutchinson

Asa Hutchinson speaks at a New York City event on May 17, 2022

Former two-term Arkansas Governor Asa Hutchinson announced his run for president during an April interview with ABC News just days after Mr Trump was indicted on criminal charges in New York.

Mr Hutchinson, 72, has said Mr Trump's legal problems are "a sideshow and distraction" that should prompt him to withdraw from the race.

The former attorney and businessman was the youngest federal prosecutor in the nation under the Ronald Reagan administration.

He also served two terms in the US House of Representatives, including as a prosecutor in Bill Clinton's impeachment trial, and was George W Bush's Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) chief.

Presenting himself as a "non-Trump" candidate with experience and a record of leadership across multiple roles, he has vowed to lean into "common sense, consistent conservatism".

Doug Burgum

Doug Burgum at a 2017 press conference

The former software executive and current North Dakota governor confirmed a run for the White House on 7 June saying: "If you want more small-town common sense in Washington and our big cities, we'll make that happen."

The New York Times assessed his candidacy: "As the leader of his deep-red state, Mr Burgum has overseen a period of significant economic expansion, but he has also assented to staunchly conservative social policies, even as he has downplayed his role in them."

Will Hurd

Will Hurd in a 2017 congressional hearing

Former Texas congressman Will Hurd announced he was joining the race in a June appearance on CBS News.

A former undercover CIA officer and cybersecurity executive, Mr Hurd won thrice in a majority Hispanic congressional district that sits on the US-Mexico border. But his centrist positions, particularly on immigration, put him at increasing odds with his party through the Trump years. The 45-year-old left Congress in 2021.

He has said his party cannot afford to nominate "a lawless, selfish, failed politician like Donald Trump" and must avoid a "rematch from hell" between Mr Trump and Mr Biden.

Larry Elder

Larry Elder

The conservative talk radio host launched an unsuccessful campaign for California governor in 2021, pledging to repeal mask and vaccine mandates.

A lawyer who grew up in Los Angeles' South Central neighbourhood, Mr Elder, 71, has slammed Democrats' "woke" agenda and the idea of systemic racism.

He announced his long-shot 2024 presidential bid by tweeting: "America is in decline, but this decline is not inevitable."

Perry Johnson

Perry Johnson at a May 2023 campaign rally in Iowa

Perry Johnson, a 75-year-old businessman who tried to run for Michigan governor last year but was disqualified, joined the presidential race in March.

He is touting a plan to reignite the economy by shaving 2% in federal spending every year.

Ryan Binkley

A business executive from Texas, Ryan Binkley is also a Christian pastor.

He has said he "heard calls from the Lord about what's needed" and will prioritise "solutions for the country".

Who has dropped out?

Mike Pence

After a nearly five-month campaign, the former vice-president called it quits on 28 October.

Mr Pence had languished in recent polls and had struggled to gain the support of Republican voters.

He was the second to drop out, and the first major Republican candidate to suspend his campaign

Frances Suarez

Miami's 45-year-old Cuban-born mayor, Francis Suarez, was the only Hispanic candidate in the race. He was the first to drop out.
(Bloomberg) -- The US, Japan and South Korea held a joint military drill to practice hunting for missiles from the likes of North Korea in their first such exercise since the leaders of the three nations pledged to improve security cooperation.

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Destroyers equipped with the Aegis system to track and shoot down missiles were used in the drills Tuesday south of South Koreas Jeju Island, South Koreas military said. The exercises were focused on detecting and monitoring projectiles, and then sharing information about hypothetical North Korean ballistic missile launches.

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The exercises were intended to strengthen the response posture and capabilities against North Koreas escalating nuclear and missile threats, South Koreas navy said in a statement.

President Joe Biden, South Korean leader Yoon Suk Yeol and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida pledged at the summit in the US earlier this month to share real-time data about missile launches. They also agreed to launch multifaceted military exercises they said would take their trilateral defense cooperation to unprecedented levels.

Getting on the same page as quickly as possible is essential given that a ballistic missile launched from North Korea could reach all of South Korea in a few minutes and most of Japan in less than 15 minutes.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un reminded the trio of the threat his state poses to the region when he held celebrations to mark the anniversary of the founding of his countrys navy 74 years ago. He used the occasion to pledge to expand the use of tactical nuclear weapons at sea, the official Korean Central News Agency reported Tuesday.

Kim also hosted a banquet to honor the navy and posed for pictures with service members along with his preteen daughter. Shes been at the leaders side for events that have included missile launches and state functions, likely to signal that the Kim dynasty that has ruled the country since its founding will continue.

Pyongyang has bristled at military exercises by its biggest foes  the US, Japan and South Korea. Kim Yo Jong, the powerful sister of the leader, earlier this year threatened to turn the Pacific Ocean into Pyongyangs firing range if drills were not halted.

Last week, North Korea failed for the second time in about three months to put a spy satellite into orbit when its rocket had troubles soon after launch. That incident dealt a blow to Kim Jong Un, who wants a reconnaissance probe to keep an eye on US forces.

The launch coincided with separate joint military drills by South Korea and the US that run through the end of this month. Those exercises have prompted Pyongyang to threaten retaliate against what it sees as a prelude to invasion.

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KUALA LUMPUR, Aug. 29 (Xinhua) -- Malaysia will allocate 2 billion ringgit (430 million U.S. dollars) as a seed fund National Energy Transition Facility to enable catalytic blended finance, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim announced on Tuesday.

In his remarks at the second phase of the National Energy Transition Roadmap, Anwar said the facility would enable catalytic blended finance to ensure a seamless flow of financial resources towards energy transition projects that are marginally bankable or yielding below-market returns.

Considering Malaysia's current state of immature decarbonization technologies, the country's progress would significantly hinge on alternative energy sources and robust regional and international collaboration, he explained.

"As the paramount challenge in energy transition is financing, it is estimated that an investment of at least 1.2 trillion ringgit between 2023 and 2050 is needed to enable responsible energy transition," Anwar said.

He added that 60 billion-90 billion ringgits are needed to be allocated for crucial projects, including the expansion of public transportation, strengthening grid infrastructure, and reskilling of human capital, in this decade alone.

He also highlighted energy efficiency as one of the energy transition levers that offer effective long-term solutions to manage energy consumption, thus reducing carbon emissions, adding that the government will launch a major retrofit program to enhance energy efficiency in government buildings. 
By Clark Mindock

(Reuters) -3M on Tuesday secured preliminary approval for a $10.3 billion deal resolving claims by U.S. public water providers that the company polluted drinking water with toxic chemicals, less than a day after a group of 22 U.S. states and territories dropped their objections to the deal.

U.S. District Judge Richard Gergel in Charleston, South Carolina, said in a court filing that the settlement of hundreds of lawsuits against the Minnesota-based company over pollution by perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances, or PFAS, is "sufficiently fair, reasonable and adequate" to justify moving forward.

Paul Napoli, an attorney for the water providers, called the preliminary approval a "pivotal moment in our ongoing efforts to ensure safe and clean drinking water."

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A 3M spokesperson said the agreement will benefit U.S. public water systems that provide water to "a vast majority of Americans" without further litigation.

The settlement will be considered during a final "fairness hearing" in February, when the judge will consider any outstanding objections or concerns before deciding whether to give final approval.

Dubbed "forever chemicals" because they do not easily break down, PFAS are used in a range of products from firefighting foam to non-stick cookware and have been linked to cancer and hormonal dysfunction.

The settlement announced in June would provide funds to cities, towns and other public water providers over a 13-year period to test for and treat PFAS contamination.

It stems from litigation over firefighting foams containing PFAS that were sprayed in fields or airports and left to seep into groundwater and other waterways.

3M, which has said the settlement would help support remediation "at any level," has not admitted wrongdoing.

The states had objected in July, saying the deal did not adequately account for the damage caused by PFAS and did not give water providers enough information to understand whether the settlement was suitable or not.

The preliminary approval came hours after the states withdrew those objections on Monday night, citing changes to the deal following weeks of negotiations.

3M, the water providers and the states said in a joint court filing that the changes allow individual water providers to obtain estimates on their expected payout before agreeing to the deal, give providers more time to decide whether to opt out of the deal, and clarify that states can still pursue separate lawsuits over PFAS contamination.

New York Attorney General Letitia James, whose office originally objected to the deal, said in a statement on Tuesday that the "new agreement will ensure 3M is held accountable."

California and several other states and U.S. territories that had objected to the deal said in a separate filing on Monday that they still thought 3M should be paying more to settle the cases, even though they no longer formally object.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has called PFAS an urgent public health and environmental issue.

3M in December set a 2025 deadline to stop producing PFAS.

(Reporting by Clark Mindock in New YorkEditing by Alexia Garamfalvi, Matthew Lewis and Bill Berkrot)
The United States unequivocally condemns the persecution of Crimean Tatars by Russian occupation authorities, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said on Aug. 29, in the midst of reports of a new wave of mass arrests and detentions on the Russian-occupied Ukrainian peninsula.

Blinken urged Russia to halt its persecution of Crimean Tatars, put an end to its occupation of Ukraine, and release all political prisoners being held there.

Read also: Crimean Tatars faced annihilation 79 years ago, but nation endured and will live freely  Zelenskyy

Russian security forces conducted searches in the homes of Crimean Tatars in Crimeas Bachchisarai District of Crimea on Aug. 24. Six individuals suspected of affiliations with the Islamist Hizb ut-Tahrir organization were apprehended. Russia has designated Hizb ut-Tahrir a terrorist organization.

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The following day, Aug. 25, Russian authorities detained 23 Crimean Tatars near the Kyivskiy District Court in Simferopol. The group had assembled to show support for those who had been detained the previous day. Subsequently, a representative from a military enlistment office issued summonses to them.

Read also: Crimean Tatar leader Chubarov predicts how Ukraine will liberate Crimea

However, the detainees declined to accept the summonses. In subsequent proceedings, 22 of the detainees were given administrative detention sentences ranging from 1 to 5 days.

Earlier, Ukraines National Resistance Center, a state civil defense organization, said that Russia had escalated its repressive measures against the local population in occupied Crimea under the pretext of counter-sabotage measures.

The center said that since the beginning of the year, more than a hundred residents of the peninsula suspected of disloyalty had been detained by Russian forces.

Russias military occupation of Ukraines Crimea began in March 2014. The Verkhovna Rada, Ukraines parliament, has officially declared Feb. 20, 2014, as the commencement of Russias occupation of Crimea and Sevastopol.

Read also: US Senate approves resolution for Ukraine, condemns Russian aggression

International organizations and most of the worlds states have consistently deemed Russias occupation of Crimea as illegal and condemned Moscows actions. However, Russia continues to refer to its military occupation of Ukrainian territory as the annexation of Crimea, advocating for what it terms the restoration of historical justice.

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Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
Utahns gathered on the steps of the Utah State Capitol building to honor the Jacksonville shooting victims and the anniversary of the March on Washington. | Kristin Murphy, Deseret News

"How many times must we bury Emmett Till?"

It was a question Darlene McDonald first asked six years ago in downtown Salt Lake City as Utahns gathered to mourn a deadly car attack during a white supremacist rally in Charlottesville, North Carolina. She asked herself again at Sugar House Park in 2020, while walking in solidarity with Ahmaud Arbery, who was fatally shot in a hate crime.

On Monday night, she asked the same question in the wake of the deaths of three Black Floridians who were killed over the weekend in what police say was a racially motivated shooting.

"If I have to be here next year, I will be here next year. I'm hoping that I don't have to," said McDonald, director of 1Utah Project. "I'm hoping that it's a different reason for us to be here, not this one, two days later, after another shooting of people because of the color of their skin. Not that reason. Let's come together because we love one another, not because there has been a hateful event that happened and we need to stand up."

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McDonald and a few dozen others gathered at the Utah Capitol for a vigil and rally to both honor those who were killed in Jacksonville and to recognize the 60th anniversary of the March on Washington.

J Duckworth and her mother Rae Duckworth attend a vigil to honor Americans who died because they were Black, on the 60th anniversary of the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom in front of the capitol in Salt Lake City on Monday, Aug. 28, 2023. | Kristin Murphy, Deseret News

Betty Sawyer, Ogden NAACP president, said consistently hearing about tragedies like the one in Florida can have a numbing effect.

"We cannot let that be the case. Every life is precious, and for us to nonchalantly go about our business like this isn't a big deal  it is. We have to take a stand for love and a stand against hate," Sawyer said. "I should not be in the same place 60 years later fighting the same fight at the same time we have folks that are saying, 'Racism don't exist. That's the past. We don't need to talk about it.'"

She added that while what happened in Florida is horrific, those in the Beehive state also need to pay attention to what's happening close to home.

"This is home. We're going to look at Utah. We're not just going to look, we're going to demand change in Utah," she said. "We have senators and other folks trying to pass legislation to do away with diversity, equity and inclusion."

Rae Duckworth, Black Lives Matter Utah Chapter operating chairperson, hugs Betty Sawyer, Project Success Coalition executive director and Ogden NAACP president, during a vigil to honor Americans who died because they were Black, on the 60th anniversary of the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom, in front of the Capitol in Salt Lake City on Monday. | Kristin Murphy, Deseret News

A number of speakers criticized those who cherry-pick Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s quotes.

"It's probably on social media today talking about the, 'We want to be judged by the content of our character, rather than the color of our skin.' But the irony has not been lost on me that, two days ago, the skin color was what the shooter decided he was going to react to," said the Rev. Robert Merrill of Calvary Baptist Church.

"And so while it might have sounded great," he continued, "it might be one of those things we call on, 'Oh, we want that. It's an ideal.' No, it's real, and it's something we need to keep be aware of and keep conscious in our minds that yes, people still target others because of their skin color."

Jeanetta Williams, who leads the NAACP Salt Lake, also questioned what King would say to today.

"Dr. King would say to us that he gave his life for the cause, and now we must continue to fight," Williams said, specifying that Utahns should stand up to white-washing of U.S. history and gun violence. "That's how we can fight back and make sure that when we go to the ballot, that our vote does count and we are making a difference.

Darlene McDonald, Utah Black Roundtable Chair, speaks during a vigil honoring Americans who died because they were Black, on the 60th anniversary of the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom in front of the capitol in Salt Lake City on Monday, Aug. 28, 2023. She holds American flags to show she can love America and criticize it at the same time. | Kristin Murphy, Deseret News
Vast majority of Ukrainians see liberating all Ukrainian territory as key to defeating Russia

More than 83% of Ukrainians think the liberation of all Russian-occupied territories, up to Ukraines 1991 borders, would mean Ukraine had defeated Russia in the war, a new poll has found.

The results of the poll, conducted by the Kyiv International Institute of Sociology at the request of the Institute of Sociology of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, were released on Aug. 29.

Most of those polled said they didnt think Ukraine would have defeated Russia if it did not manage to liberate Crimea from Russian military occupation.

Read also: Most Ukrainians still oppose making concessions to Russia to achieve peace, survey shows

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The other options got less than 5%.

Four percent of respondents believe that the return of the territories to the borders before Feb. 24, 2022, when Russia launched its full-scale invasion, would be enough to declare victory over Russia. Another 3.7% consider victory might be achieved without the return of Crimea, and 1.5% said it might be achieved without the return of the Russian-occupied part of Donbas.

Less than 2% would be satisfied with the option of Ukraine declaring victory and simply keeping the territories that are not currently occupied by Russia.

Read also: Survey reveals regional variations in Ukrainian attitudes towards residents of occupied territories

Sociologists also note that the number of respondents who expect a long war with Russia is increasing. Some 42% of Ukrainians believe that the war may last more than a year more, 34% from six months to a year, and almost 10%, for a few more months.

The Ukrainian sociological survey has been conducted annually since 1994. This year it was conducted from June 17-27 by telephone interview in all regions of Ukraine, except for Russian-occupied territories in the Donbas and in Crimea.

Since May 2022, the share of Ukrainians reluctant to make territorial concessions to end the war has remained roughly the same, despite Russia's regular attacks on critical and civilian infrastructure.

In May, a KIIS poll showed that 84% of Ukrainians believe that territorial concessions to Russia are unacceptable, even if the war lasts longer and there are other threats.

Read also: Presidents Office cites three reasons for Ukraine's slow counter-offensive

In August, U.S. newspaper the New York Times reported that a new phase of Ukraine's counter-offensive had begun, with the main blow coming from the southeast, where Ukrainian forces are gradually advancing through minefields under Russian air attacks.

Ukrainian Armed Forces Commander-in-Chief Valerii Zaluzhnyi said that Ukrainian defenders "step by step continue to create conditions for moving forward."

On Aug. 27, the U.S-based Institute for the Study of War reported that the Ukrainian Armed Forces are now likely to advance through the most difficult section of the Russian forces' defensive positions and are approaching the next line.

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Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
(Bloomberg) -- The Vatican tried to walk back remarks from Pope Francis after he told Russians last week to take pride in being the heirs of that great Russian empire in comments that ignited outrage in Ukraine.

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The Foreign Ministry in Kyiv called the Popes statements, made in a speech Friday to young Russians, sad and said his comments supported the imperialistic ideas embraced by Russian President Vladimir Putin .

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The Vatican said Franciss comments, in which he told Russians to honor the legacy of leaders that expanded Russias borders by force, including Peter the Great and Catherine the Great, had not meant to praise expansionist thinking.

The Pope intended to encourage young people to preserve and promote all that is positive in the great Russian cultural and spiritual heritage, and certainly not to exalt imperialist logic and government personalities, Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni said in a statement.

The Popes mention of Peter and Catherine were made to indicate some historical periods of reference, he added.

The head of Ukraines Greek Catholic Church denounced the comments as an endorsement of Russias nationalism and imperialism that today has caused the war in Ukraine  a war that brings death and destruction to our people every day.

Hundreds of thousands of soldiers and civilians have been killed and wounded in the war in Ukraine, which started in 2014 when Russian forces seized Crimea and staged separatist uprisings in its neighbors largely Russian-speaking east. It then escalated when Putin launched a full-scale invasion of the country in February 2022.

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The Vatican is in damage control mode after Pope Francis gushed over great Russia in comments to a group of young Russian Catholics over the weekend.

His remarks, in which he urged the group to be proud that they are descendants of the great Mother Russia, sparked outrage in Ukraine, where they were seen as eerily similar to Vladimir Putins speech justifying the slaughter of Ukrainians to preserve what he described as a great empire.

It is precisely with such imperialist propaganda, the spiritual ties and the need to save great Mother Russia, that the Kremlin justifies the killing of thousands of Ukrainians and the destruction of Ukrainian cities and villages, a spokesman for Ukraines Foreign Ministry said of the pontiffs speech.

The Kremlin, meanwhile, lapped up the pontiffs remarks, pouring salt in the wound for many Ukrainians. It is admirable that the pontiff knows Russian history, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters. The pontiff going along with this effort is really good and makes us glad, he said of Pope Francis helping to preserve the legacy of Russian history.

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A spokesman for the Vatican on Tuesday sought to quell growing fury over the comments, saying in a statement that Pope Francis did not mean to praise imperialistic logic or Russian rulers but simply to inspire young Russians.

Ukraine Angry After Pope Francis Calls Darya Dugina Innocent War Victim

In the words of greeting spontaneously addressed to some young Russian Catholics a few days ago, as clearly follows from the context in which they were delivered, spokesman Matteo Bruni said, the pope wanted to encourage young people to preserve and promote what is positive in the great Russian cultural and spiritual heritage.

In his remarks, delivered Friday via video link, the pontiff told the Russians to never give up on their heritage. You are descendants of the great Mother Russia, step forward with it. And thank youthank you for your way of being, for your way of being Russian, he said.

This is not the first time Pope Francis has been called out for promoting Kremlin talking points. A few months into Russias full-scale war against Ukraine last year, he claimed the war may have been provoked.

What we are seeing is the brutality and ferocity with which this war is being carried out by the troops, generally mercenaries, used by the Russians, he was quoted as saying at the time. But the danger is that we only see this, which is monstrous, and we do not see the whole drama unfolding behind this war, which was perhaps somehow either provoked or not prevented.

Read more at The Daily Beast.

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The Jacksonville community is mourning the loss of three people who were killed in Saturdays racist mass shooting at a New Town Dollar General.

>>> STREAM ACTION NEWS JAX LIVE <<<

On Monday night, a local church and a local park hosted events where victims were remembered. Community members held a unity rally at James Weldon Park to honor those lives lost.

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The community is still trying to cope with Saturdays racist mass shooting.

Fifty-two-year-old Angela Carr, 19-year-old Anolt Laguerre Jr. and 29-year-old Jerrald Gallion were murdered by Ryan Palmeter, who according to Jacksonville Sheriffs Office, wrote manifestos detailing his hatred of Black people.

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Florida Representative Angie Nixon said community members shouldnt have to be at this rally.

This was a racist issue, Nixon said. This was racist violence that took place on Saturday.

Not far from the rally at James Weldon Park, noted Civil Rights Attorney Ben Crump held a press conference with Jarrald Gallions family. Crump said he was shocked to hear about the shootings.

RELATED STORY: This is ridiculous: Hate crimes at all-time high, SPLC say

They feel like they have to go out and kill Black people, and Brown people and Jewish people, Crump said. Its senseless, Its deplorable and we have to stop this.

Jarrald Gallions mother-and-law, Sabrina Rozier, said the 29-year-old was a devoted father who left behind a 4-year-old daughter.

He was robbed of that and so was my granddaughter, Rozier said. Now she is asking who shot my daddy. When are they bringing Jerrald home?

Rozier added her granddaughter was supposed to be with her father this weekend.

She was supposed to be with her daddy, Rozier said. Just imagine if she was... I wouldve lost her too probably.

Angela Carrs pastor, Reverand Greene Sr., spoke about the type of person she was and how she will be missed.

A caring mother. And as we can see she was a person who was a provider for her family, Reverand Green Sr. said.

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Funeral services have yet to be set for any of the victims.

Click here to download the free Action News Jax news and weather apps, click here to download the Action News Jax Now app for your smart TV and click here to stream Action News Jax live.
On another busy lunch hour at her East Biloxi restaurant, as loyal customers ate pho and vermicelli, Kim Pham paused to look at old photos framed on the wall.

Kim Long restaurant in Katrina, she had written above the images of boarded windows, an empty parking lot and the littered street. Reopen in 10/11/07.

They wonder why I opened so fast, Pham said. I had no choice.

Photos from Hurricane Katrinas devastating impact on Kim Long in Biloxi on Wednesday, Aug. 2, 2023. Hannah Ruhoff/Sun Herald

After Hurricane Katrina pounded the low-lying, working class haven of immigrants and wrecked their homes, their work and their neighborhood, a few determined Vietnamese restaurants were the first to return to East Biloxi 16 years ago. And today, they still call lost neighbors back to talk and remember, but mostly, to eat.

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Its remarkable that theyre still up and running, said Heidi Phan, an esthetician in Pensacola who grew up in Gulfport. She returns often to eat at Le Bakery, a popular local restaurant that opened less than a year after the storm.

Even since she moved away, I always get a king cake from them, Phan said. Theyre basically the best.

Katrina ruined Kim Long  its force blew the windows out and the storm surge destroyed everything inside. Pham returned to an empty neighborhood that smelled of gas.

Businesses across the city closed, or moved north to DIberville. People came back to find that houses not completely gone had sometimes wound up in the street.

Some families never came home.

Owner Kim Pham holds up her hand to demonstrate how high the water came up inside her restaurant during Hurricane Katrina at Kim Long in Biloxi on Wednesday, Aug. 2, 2023. Hannah Ruhoff/Sun Herald

A 2018 survey showed Biloxi had just 750 Vietnamese residents.

By 2022, that number grew to roughly 2,000. And on Sundays at Kim Long, even more return. It is the restaurants busiest day, and Pham said Vietnamese families come from Alabama, New Orleans  even Atlanta.

Amid all the devastation of the storm, longtime Biloxi councilman George Lawrence said, the restaurants and businesses that returned showed a little spark of life.

It paid off, he said. Didnt it?

Guests dine on Vietnamese dishes at Kim Long in Biloxi on Wednesday, Aug. 2, 2023. Hannah Ruhoff/Sun Herald

Kim Long in Biloxi on Wednesday, Aug. 2, 2023. Hannah Ruhoff/Sun Herald

Vietnamese restaurants return after Katrina

In 2007, Lawrence and other city leaders honored the 20 East Biloxi Vietnamese business owners who had already reopened. Kim Long and Le Bakery both made the list.

Pham gutted Kim Long when she returned  everything inside today is new. But the building stood. And that, she said, is why she came back.

She slept in her Ocean Springs jewelry store for one year and cooked for two families she let stay in the building for free. She paid workers in cash and ordered ingredients from Houston. By the day it reopened in 2007, Kim Long was packed.

Guests dine on Vietnamese dishes at Kim Long in Biloxi on Wednesday, Aug. 2, 2023. Hannah Ruhoff/Sun Herald

Pham served street cleaners, volunteers and police. Her old customers had been mostly Vietnamese, but the new crowds were mostly military personnel and first responders. They ate fast and did not linger. No one dressed up.

No time, Pham said, because after the storm the last thing anyone could think about was looking nice.

Kim Long means golden dragon  a symbol of luck, which Pham said she had. Insurance paid for most of her repairs.

And usually, she said, she got $5 in tips per customer.

But after Katrina, they give you $10.

Owner Kim Pham, right, and chef Chau Oanh at Kim Long in Biloxi on Wednesday, Aug. 2, 2023. Hannah Ruhoff/Sun Herald

East Biloxi 18 years later

Allytra Perryman, program director of the East Biloxi Community Collaborative, said the neighborhood is still considered a food desert. It was full of businesses in the 1960s and 70s, but downturn in the fishing industry and wreckage of the storm turned many away  for good.

Having somewhere in close proximity to pick up a hot meal was really important, Perryman said.

Little things, she added, like seeing an old neighbor, means a lot.

Four days after Katrina made landfall, then-President George W. Bush stood amid the citys ruins with a message.

Out of this rubble is going to come a new Biloxi, he said, but 18 years later, lot after lot on the quiet streets of East Biloxi are still vacant, and many of the places and people that once defined the city before the storm are gone.

But there are signs of hope.

Vung Tau owners Chiem Lam and Theu Phan outside Vung Tau in Biloxi on Thursday, Aug. 3, 2023. Hannah Ruhoff/Sun Herald

Vung Tau, a restaurant steps from the Buddhist Temple and Vietnamese Martyrs Church on Oak Street, opened in 2017. At a time when the region was in crisis, the Phan and Lam family made a rare choice.

They moved to the Coast.

They left Las Vegas and arrived in August 2006  just a year after Katrina. They stayed in friends homes and cheap housing until they could finally open their restaurant.

Theu Phan owned a restaurant in Las Vegas and wanted to do it again. Her family came to Biloxi with the hope of a future in fishing, but when her husband, Chiem Lam, found no luck in the industry, the family opened Vung Tau.

Now, Phan spends the day in front of a 30 gallon pot. It makes 130 bowls of pho, and she fills it three times a week to make 390 servings.

Vung Tau, said her son, Tom Phan, is somewhere families can have a place to chat and eat and just hang out and build some memories.

He is not sure why they chose East Biloxi, instead of Ocean Springs or DIberville, like so many others have.

Maybe they were drawn by the nearby Temple, because his family is Buddhist.

Maybe it was because, as the only restaurant on the block, the customers and tourists just seem to find it.

Or maybe his mother simply liked the neighborhood, Phan said. She could start her dream there.

Vung Tau owner Theu Phan prepares bowls of pho at Vung Tau in Biloxi on Thursday, Aug. 3, 2023. Hannah Ruhoff/Sun Herald

on Thursday, Aug. 3, 2023. Hannah Ruhoff/Sun Herald

Guests carry out Vietnamese dishes at Kim Long in Biloxi on Wednesday, Aug. 2, 2023. Hannah Ruhoff/Sun Herald
NEW YORK, Aug. 28 (Xinhua) -- In the past week, several shootings in the U.S. states of Kentucky, Florida, and California have claimed eight lives, not including the shooters.

Most recently, on Sunday early morning, a shooting occurred at a restaurant in downtown Louisville, the U.S. state of Kentucky, killing one and injuring six.

No arrests have been made. Police are asking the public with information on the suspect or suspects to call their anonymous tip line, according to local media.

On Saturday afternoon, a racially motivated shooting at a Dollar General store in Jacksonville, the U.S. state of Florida, left at least four people dead, including the shooter.

The shooting happened blocks away from Edward Waters University, a historically black college.

Jacksonville Sheriff T.K. Waters said in a press conference that the victims -- two men and one woman -- were all black people.

The 21-year-old white gunman Ryan Palmeter lived in Clay County, Florida, with his parents.

He committed shooting with a high-powered rifle and a handgun, wearing a tactical vest, according to police. U.S. media reported Palmeter bought these weapons legally despite a past involuntary commitment for a mental health exam.

He left behind what the sheriff described as three manifestos outlining his "disgusting ideology of hate" and his motive for the attack.

Palmeter, who shot himself after the attack, was believed to have acted alone, according to police.

"We must say clearly and forcefully that white supremacy has no place in America," U.S. President Joe Biden said in a statement Sunday.

On Sunday evening, hundreds of people gathered at prayer vigils and in church for Jacksonville shooting victims.

Local media reported Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis, who is running for the GOP nomination for president, was loudly booed as he addressed the vigil. He signed a bill in April to allow anyone who can legally own a gun in Florida to carry one without a permit.

The shooting date coincides with the fifth anniversary of a racist crime in Jacksonville, when another gunman opened fire during a video game tournament, killing two people before fatally shooting himself.

The shooting also coincides with the 50th Anniversary of the March on Washington, a landmark civil rights event in the U.S. capital.

Another shooting took place on Wednesday evening, in which retired Ventura police sergeant John Snowling, 59, shot dead three people and himself and injured six, at a historic biker bar in Trabuco Canyon, 90 km south of downtown Los Angeles.

Among the wounded was the shooter's wife Marie Snowling, who was his intended target, officials have said. Marie's dining companion was found shot dead on the scene.

When sheriff's deputies arrived minutes after the shooting began, Snowling began shooting at the deputies, who then returned fire and killed him, police said.

Marie Snowling filed for divorce in December 2022. Under California community property laws, she would have been in line for half of John Snowling's pension accrued during their years of marriage.

Gun violence has been a divisive and deadly issue in U.S. society for long. Deaths from gun-related injuries have been on successive increase in the United States since 2004, with 2021 hitting a record high of 48,830, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

As of Aug. 1, more than 25,000 people had died from gun violence in the United States this year, which is an average of roughly 118 deaths each day, according to the Gun Violence Archive. Among the deaths, 879 were teens and 170 were children. 
I visited an abandoned Air Force base in New York that inspired 'Stranger Things,' and it was even creepier than I imagined

The radar tower at Camp Hero. Gabbi Shaw/Insider

Camp Hero is a state park in Montauk, the easternmost tip of Long Island, New York.

It used to be Montauk Air Force Station, which reportedly inspired Netflix's " Stranger Things ."

I visited the eerie state park and understood why it's become the subject of conspiracy theories.

Fans of "Stranger Things" know that all the interdimensional problems that have befallen our friends in Hawkins, Indiana, are because of the secret government facility known as the Hawkins Lab.

But did you know that Netflix's "Stranger Things" was originally called "Montauk," named after the real-life New York town that's at the center of multiple conspiracy theories?

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Camp Hero, formerly known as the Montauk Air Force Station, has been plagued with conspiracy theories since the book "The Montauk Project: Experiments in Time," written by Preston Nichols, was published in 1992. Its unsubstantiated claims included that researchers at the base had repressed the memories of employees who'd been subjected to experiments throughout the '70s and '80s.

Today, it's possible to visit Camp Hero, which opened to the public as a state park in 2002. As someone who has been to Montauk dozens of times, but never to Camp Hero  and as someone going through "Stranger Things" withdrawal as we await a release date for season five  I jumped at the chance to check out the base, which is now abandoned.

I came away from my visit understanding where the Duffer brothers, who created "Stranger Things," got their inspiration. Camp Hero would certainly be on my list of the creepiest places I've visited.

Take a look inside the park, from its beautiful views of the ocean to the mysterious 90-foot radar tower that still stands today.

If you've seen an episode of the Netflix smash-hit "Stranger Things," the creepiness of Hawkins Lab has probably stuck with you.

The inside of the mysterious and sinister Hawkins Lab in "Stranger Things." Netflix

"Stranger Things," which dropped its first season in July 2016 and has become a pop-culture juggernaut in the years since, began as the story of a group of pre-teens who, after one of their best friends goes missing, become tangled in a dangerous web of government conspiracies, alternate dimensions, the Cold War, and more.

One of the show's breakout characters is Eleven (played by Millie Bobby Brown), a young girl born with telekinesis. Immediately after she was born, she was abducted by a scientist who she calls Papa (Matthew Modine) and taken to Hawkins Lab, where she and other children were experimented on.

The upcoming fifth season will also be its last.

The show's creators, the Duffer brothers, were inspired by a real-life government base in Montauk, New York, called Camp Hero.

Ross Duffer and Matt Duffer in 2016. Jason LaVeris/FilmMagic/Getty Images

In 2016, Matt and Ross Duffer confirmed to The Hollywood Reporter that "Stranger Things" was originally sold as "Montauk" before they decided to switch the name and the location to the fictional town of Hawkins, Indiana.

"We liked Montauk, because we liked the coastal setting," Matt Duffer said, adding that Montauk is the basis for Amity Island, the fictional location of "Jaws," which is one of their favorite movies.

But the setting changed when they realized "it was really going to be impossible to shoot in or around Long Island in the wintertime," Matt Duffer continued.

A filmmaker, Charlie Kessler, sued the brothers in 2018, claiming they stole the idea of "Stranger Things" from his script "The Montauk Project," Thrillist reported. The Duffers denied his claims, and Kessler dropped the lawsuit in 2019, The Hollywood Reporter reported.

The base shut down in 1982 and reopened to the public as Camp Hero State Park in 2002.

A sign welcoming visitors to Camp Hero. Gabbi Shaw/Insider

According to signs in the park outlining Camp Hero's history, the US Army commissioned Camp Hero in May 1942  five months after the US joined World War II in December 1941  to defend against German submarines and boats.

The Army deactivated the base in 1947 and turned it over to the US Air Force in 1951, which remained there until 1982.

The New York Times reported following a 2006 visit that Camp Hero, named for Major General Andrew Hero Jr.  who served as the chief of coast artillery from 1926 to 1930, according to Arlington National Cemetery  opened to the public in 2002.

Naturally, I had to check it out.

Outside the radar tower. Gabbi Shaw/Insider

As a huge fan of "Stranger Things" with a mild interest in secret governmental conspiracy theories, I figured I'd drive out east and laugh with my mom (who made the trek with me) about the wildest things we'd learn about Camp Hero.

Instead, I came away feeling like "Stranger Things" got the atmosphere of this place exactly right.

Camp Hero  and Montauk  are on the easternmost tip of Long Island, New York.

New York City, Long Island, and Montauk. Google Maps

Montauk is commonly known as The End. It's the last town on Long Island, making it the perfect spot for an Army base scanning the oceans for submarines hiding in the depths below.

The park is 123 miles outside of New York City. I'm from a town on Long Island that's 99 miles west of Montauk, so it took me around two hours to drive out there.

Signs led the way to Camp Hero. Gabbi Shaw/Insider

When there's no traffic, it can be a fun drive. You pass through picturesque towns that are worth a stop, like Amagansett, East Hampton, Southampton, Wainscott, and more.

Camp Hero is located past the town center of Montauk, a favorite of celebrities and locals alike.

A store in Montauk's bustling center. Molly O'Brien

Curbed reported that celebrities including Julianne Moore, Ralph Lauren, and Robert De Niro have owned real estate in the town.

I grew up on Long Island and have been to Montauk dozens of times, but I've never really explored Camp Hero before.

When you turn off the highway to drive into the park, you have a good view of the Montauk Lighthouse, which is a Long Island landmark and part of the adjacent Montauk Point State Park.

The lighthouse and the sign for Camp Hero. Gabbi Shaw/Insider

Montauk Lighthouse, according to the Montauk Historical Society, was the first lighthouse to be built in New York after George Washington commissioned it in 1792.

It's also the fourth-oldest working lighthouse in the US and just one of 12 lighthouses to be named a National Historic Landmark.

There are plenty of signs, so you won't get lost on your way in.

Another sign. Gabbi Shaw/Insider

If the park hadn't been so clearly marked, it would've been easy to blow by the main entrance.

The park is open every day from sunrise to sunset, and costs $8 to get in  or, if you're a New York resident with an Empire Pass like I am, it's free.

The entrance to Camp Hero. Gabbi Shaw/Insider

According to New York State's parks department, the Empire Pass "permits unlimited vehicle access to most facilities operated by the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation and the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation."

Essentially, it gets you into most New York state parks for free. It costs $80 per year for a card (or $72 a year for a digital card), or you can purchase a lifetime pass for $750 (or $742 for a digital card). There are three-season and five-season passes available too, as shown on the parks' website.

As my family are big fans of Jones Beach, another state park, we've had an Empire Pass for as long as I can remember.

When you pull in, you're greeted with a map of the park, which covers 754 acres of land.

A map of the park. Gabbi Shaw/Insider

I was surprised to learn that a decent chunk of land is off-limits to visitors and is a wildlife and plant sanctuary.

One of the first places to park puts you right in front of some of Montauk's famous bluffs and a view of the Atlantic Ocean.

One of the first areas you see in Camp Hero. Gabbi Shaw/Insider

There are a few parks in the Montauk area that give you a good look at the bluffs, including Shadmoor State Park. Montauk Point State Park, and Ditch Plains Beach.

And just to the right of the water is one of the many trails throughout the park  along with a caution sign warning people to stay away from the cliffs.

A caution sign next to a trail. Gabbi Shaw/Insider

This wouldn't be the last warning sign I'd see that day.

There were plenty of signs about the steep edges of the bluffs posted throughout the park. Erosion is also a huge problem on Long Island's beaches, so I opted to stay as far back as I could.

Another caution sign. Gabbi Shaw/Insider

The Patch reported that the town of East Hampton, which includes Montauk, was given a $350,000 federal grant to address the erosion issues along the coastline in December 2022.

Officials told The Patch that, according to measurements by the US Army Corps of Engineers, Montauk's shoreline "eroded more than 44 feet inland between 2000 and 2012."

In the years since, the erosion has only continued  so I heeded the sign's warnings.

When I turned around to go back to my car, I spotted the base's defunct radar tower, which is at the center of many of the conspiracy theories about the camp.

The radar tower from a distance. Gabbi Shaw/Insider

The radar tower looms over Camp Hero. I knew I needed to make my way over there to get a good look.

We hopped in our car to find the radio tower. Along the way, we saw signs for picnic areas, bathrooms, and places to park.

Signs pointing out various places to picnic, park, and pee. Gabbi Shaw/Insider

I didn't realize there would be so many areas to picnic and enjoy the wilderness inside the base.

One of the first remnants of the base we saw was this concrete battery, built for artillery when the US Army commissioned the base in the '40s.

One of the batteries. Gabbi Shaw/Insider

According to signs in the park, the Army built batteries throughout the base. Batteries 112 and 113, which are both still standing, contained two 16-inch guns each. The artillery was removed in 1947.

We drove around for a while encountering many roads that were closed to vehicles.

No vehicles allowed. Gabbi Shaw/Insider

Many of these trails were actually paved roads that are no longer open to cars, although it wasn't clear why.

We eventually reached a parking lot adjacent to the radar tower  but we couldn't get too close.

The radar tower. Gabbi Shaw/Insider

Even from a distance, you can see just how big it is.

The 90-foot tower and its 40-foot-wide dish are visible throughout the park, and they gave me the eerie feeling I was being watched. But being up close was somehow even more unsettling.

The radar tower. Gabbi Shaw/Insider

According to signs in the park, the "giant" radar, specifically an AN/FPS-35, was built in 1960, and it remained operational until 1980.

Its radar dish was built to detect an attack on the US. As The New York Times reported in 2006, it was once "able to detect airborne objects more than 200 miles from shore."

The tower was built when the Air Force took over the base in the 1950s. At the peak of the Cold War, there were multiple towers like it throughout the eastern US, but now, the Montauk tower is the only one left.

The dish behind an abandoned building. Gabbi Shaw/Insider

The radar tower is at the center of many of the conspiracy theories surrounding Camp Hero.

Filmmaker Christopher Garetano, who directed a docudrama about Camp Hero called "Montauk Chronicles" in 2014, spoke about the radar dish during a History Channel documentary called "The Dark Files."

"Every 12 seconds the radar tower would rotate and there would be animals freaking out and people getting headaches and bad dreams," says Garetano in "The Dark Files," claiming "people's electronic equipment would go haywire" when the dish rotated.

"I don't want to add fuel to the fire because I don't believe all the zombie stuff," one resident of 40 years told The New York Post in 2020. "But the impact that tower had on the town was real. I don't know if it affected our thoughts like some people say, but it was a force."

There seemed to be unofficial trails along the fence protecting the tower, but a sign warning about the dangers of ticks put me off getting any closer.

Ticks everywhere. Gabbi Shaw/Insider

Ticks are frequent carriers of Lyme disease. That was more than enough to keep me away from any heavily wooded areas.

According to the map and a sign, one road led to another overlook of the bluffs. But we weren't heartened by this writing on the path that declared we were in a "hazardous area."

Apparently we were in a hazardous area. Gabbi Shaw/Insider

The New York Times reported in 2006 that visitors to Camp Hero were given pamphlets about what to do in case they spotted an undetonated grenade or other unexploded ammunition  it did used to be an active military base, after all.

We barely saw anyone else while we explored Camp Hero, but my mom told me she couldn't shake the feeling that people were watching us from the woods. At first I scoffed, but as the day went on, I started to see what she meant.

An empty path. Gabbi Shaw/Insider

It was spookily silent as we walked through the woods, even though we weren't too far from the beach or a busy highway. I felt like we were in the middle of nowhere.

We came across another sign pointing to the overlook, so we knew we were headed in the right direction.

Another sign pointing us in the right way. Gabbi Shaw/Insider

But as you can see, it looks like we were just about to walk in a heavily wooded forest.

These woods really reminded me of the woods where Eleven was discovered during the "Stranger Things" pilot episode, and later the place she'd call home.

The woods. Gabbi Shaw/Insider

In the first episode of "Stranger Things," Mike, Lucas, and Dustin search the woods for their friend Will after he goes missing while biking home. The trio are searching on a rainy night when they suddenly come across Eleven, who had just escaped Hawkins Lab.

At the end of season one, Eleven returns to the woods to stay out of the Lab's clutches.

After about a mile, we glimpsed the ocean and a treacherous path that seemed to lead down to the water.

A path. Gabbi Shaw/Insider

I've read one too many stories about tourists falling to their deaths while trying to take the perfect selfie. Staying on the flat path was enough for me.

I was content to sit on this rock and take in the views from a safe distance.

The view. Gabbi Shaw/Insider

This rock was helpfully in the perfect place for me to pose for a photo.

And the views were, admittedly, pretty great.

The bluffs. Gabbi Shaw/Insider

Fishing is one of the biggest draws of Camp Hero, and I saw a few fishermen on the beach casting their lines.

On our walk back to the car, a dog came running out of the woods and scared both of us  but he was just a friendly pet running back to his owner. Safe to say, we were both on edge.

The road. Gabbi Shaw/Insider

I didn't even have the presence of mind to take a picture of this dog  that's how you know my mom and I were truly freaked out.

Our next stop was what was known as "downtown Camp Hero." This building used to be a gymnasium.

The gymnasium. Gabbi Shaw/Insider

The sign in front of this roped-off structure explained more about downtown Camp Hero. When the base was built in 1947, 600 men and 37 officers lived in this area and the structures were disguised as a "seaside fishing village," with artificial wood siding and fake windows.

This structure, the gym, was designed to look like a church. It's the only structure left from the original "downtown" Camp Hero, though other newer buildings are still standing.

Here's one of the buildings that housed barracks. It's seen better days.

The barracks. Gabbi Shaw/Insider

I was half-convinced that someone was just going to pop out of the windows if I got too close.

The idea we were being watched turned out to be pretty plausible  we came across a doe and her fawn behind one of the buildings.

Two deer behind one of the buildings. Gabbi Shaw/Insider

We didn't want to scare the deer away, so we kept our distance while exploring the buildings.

So what exactly happened at Camp Hero? There's the official version, and then there's the conspiracy-theory version, which was popularized after the publication of "The Montauk Project: Experiments in Time" in 1992.

One of the abandoned buildings. Gabbi Shaw/Insider

The events that conspiracy theorists claim happened in Camp Hero were actually pretty similar to what happens in "Stranger Things," according to a comprehensive summary of the conspiracy theories surrounding Camp Hero written by Thrillist in 2016.

Author Preston Nichols brought the theories into the mainstream when he published "The Montauk Project: Experiments in Time," which detailed his reported experiences working at Montauk Air Force Station  he claimed he'd recovered repressed memories of his time at the base in the '70s and '80s.

Nichols claimed he worked with another former employee on something called the "Montauk Chair," which used electromagnets to strengthen psychic powers. In season four of "Stranger Things," Eleven uses something similar to recover her powers.

Nichols also claimed scientists at the base used abducted children (like Eleven and her "siblings") to perform experiments on, and that some were even sent to an unknown dimension (like the Upside Down).

Eventually, these experiments were shut down when one of the children summoned an interdimensional monster, Nichols wrote  just like Eleven bringing the Demogorgon to our world.

A Montauk local once told the New York Post that Camp Hero is "a place that's dominated my life and my nightmares."

The radar tower. Gabbi Shaw/Insider

Joe Loffreno told the Post in 2020 that he believes he's one of the children who was abducted and experimented on and who were mentioned in "The Montauk Project."

"I didn't believe it until two years ago," Loffreno said. "I was hypnotized [by a certified hypnotist] for about 40 minutes and all these memories flooded back. They did a very bad thing to us out there. We were just little kids. They had no right to experiment on us. It was a very dark, very evil thing."

One theory also posits that a vast network of underground tunnels still connects the structures of Camp Hero.

Another abandoned structure. Gabbi Shaw/Insider

Garetano, director of "Montauk Chronicles," spoke with Newsday in 2017 about the reported tunnels. He said, when the History Channel was filming for "The Dark Files," they found proof the tunnels exist.

"Something extraordinary was found, which goes against all the official statements that there isn't anything there," Garetano said. "We didn't get into them but we have footage of them that was taken by someone else." He added that they saw something on the "electric resistivity imagery tests" that were conducted.

Another local, Paul Fagan, told the New York Post that he believes a nuclear reactor might've secretly been buried at the base in the '50s, and that any conspiracy theories are actually meant to distract from the reactor's existence.

The New York Department of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation did not respond to Insider's request for comment. The Army and the Air Force have not ever appeared to go on the record about the claims either, and they did not respond to Insider's requests for comment.

According to the signs at Camp Hero, and other historical sources, the base was actually used as a coastal defense site.

One of the signs at Camp Hero. Gabbi Shaw/Insider

When the Army built the base, it was used to surveil the surrounding area for German submarines, and it was also an antiaircraft artillery training station. At the time, according to the sign, all antiaircraft units in New York were sent to Camp Hero for a few weeks to train.

It was also home to other surveillance and height-finding radar that "guarded the New York City area against a surprise attack by Soviet bombers or other missiles," the sign said.

The base was also used "extensively" as a live-fire training range until it was shut down in the '80s.

All I know for sure is that I would never want to walk around Camp Hero alone or at night. There are no lights and very little signage  I could see myself getting hopelessly lost in the woods.

One of the trails. Gabbi Shaw/Insider

The lack of lights is why the park closes at sunset.

When we left the park, the road forced us to pass the Montauk Lighthouse, which ended up breaking the tension a little bit.

The Montauk Lighthouse. Gabbi Shaw/Insider

Even though it was just a few minutes down the road, the atmosphere was completely different. The parking lot was bustling and I could hear kids laughing as they explored the beach. I felt like I had just been to a completely different world.

I'd recommend making the drive if you're already in Montauk or the Hamptons.

I don't think I'll go back to Camp Hero. If I need my conspiracy-theory fix, now I know I can just fire up "Stranger Things" and get the same experience.

"Stranger Things." Netflix

Do I really believe that there were scientists using abducted children to contact a different dimension at Camp Hero?

No.

But I understand the fascination with Camp Hero  the fact that the radar tower and other disguised buildings are still standing decades later, the secluded location, and the idea that there could be secret tunnels underground are all compelling fodder for urban legends.

Anyone interested in military history or conspiracy theories would learn a lot at Camp Hero, and I'd recommend visiting  during the day, and not on your own.

Read the original article on Insider
GOP presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy suggested an additional criteria for college applicants.

He said colleges should screen applicants on their physical fitness, such as their 1-mile run time.

Ramaswamy noted the idea wasn't part of his campaign platform, but is a "serious proposal."

Republican presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy suggested on Monday that colleges should in-part screen applicants based on their physical fitness.

In a 190-word screed on Twitter, Ramaswamy said that he believes that colleges and universities will "deprioritize" applicants' standardized test scores when reviewing applications in the wake of the Supreme Court's recent ruling against affirmative action practices, instead relying on "subjective factors."

To combat this, the candidate said that College Board should "add a physical fitness section to the SAT, instead of just math and reading sections," and noted the section could possibly resemble the former Presidential Fitness Test which consisted of a 1-mile run, sit-ups, pull-ups, and more.

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Ramaswamy may have been aware that the idea, which received a combination of derision and approval on Twitter, may not be his strongest  he made sure to include in his post that the proposal is not a part of his campaign's platform.

Though he's a 38-year-old with no formal political experience, Ramaswamy was a surprising breakout star of the first GOP presidential debate on August 23, drawing in heaps of applause from the audience over his repeated attacks against fellow candidates and his unabashed support for former President Donald Trump  following the debate, Trump posted to Truth Social to note that in his eyes, Ramaswamy was the debate's clear victor.

According to an average of national polls deemed "major" by FiveThirtyEight, Ramaswamy sqaurely sits in third place behind Trump and Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, bringing in an average of 10.3% support.

Ramaswamy has a long ways to go to catch up to Trump in the polls, but he's also being floated online for another possible position in the White House: vice president.

Insider previously reported that the world's wealthiest man, Twitter, Tesla, and SpaceX owner Elon Musk, said he thinks Ramaswamy should be the the GOP nominee's running mate. Ramaswamy has also previously noted that if he makes it to the White House, he'd tap Musk as a potential adviser.

Read the original article on Business Insider
Russian President Vladimir Putin addresses leaders from the BRICS group of emerging economies at the start of a three-day summit in Johannesburg, South Africa (AP)

Vladimir Putin is too busy to attend the G20 summit in India next month, the Kremlin has said.

The Russian president spoke on the phone with Indias Narendra Modi , who expressed his understanding that the Russian president will not travel to join the summit alongside the likes of Britains Rishi Sunak and US president Joe Biden , the Indian foreign ministry said.

Russia will instead be represented by the countrys foreign minister, Sergei Lavrov, during the G20 summit on the 9-10 September, the ministry said.

While expressing an understanding for Russias decision, PM (Modi) thanked President Putin for Russias consistent support to all initiatives under Indias G20 presidency, the Indian foreign ministry said in a statement.

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Mr Putin has a busy schedule while his main focus at the moment is Russias military operation in Ukraine, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov told reporters, according to the Interfax news service.

On Tuesday, the Kremlin said Mr Putin and Mr Modi discussed bilateral relations which are developing progressively in the spirit of a specially privileged strategic partnership.

There were no warm words for the state of the two countries partnership in the readout from Indias side, however, which simply said the leaders reviewed progress on a number of issues of bilateral cooperation.

The news that Mr Putin will not be present comes amid the final stages of preparations in New Delhi to host what it says will be the largest gathering of G20 delegates yet.

Russias invasion of Ukraine has emerged as one of the biggest sticking points throughout Indias year-long G20 presidency, with leaders of Western countries including Mr Biden and Canadian prime minister Justin Trudeau expected to demand the strongest condemnation over Mr Putins actions in Ukraine.

India has managed to maintain close ties with both Russia and the US since the invasion began and has abstained from several UN resolutions to condemn the war, as well as avoiding joining Western-led sanctions. The country has taken advantage of large amounts of cheap energy imports and weapons supplies from Moscow.

Mr Trudeau said last week that he was disappointed with India for not extending an invitation to Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky to attend the G20 as a guest nation, and said he would raise the matter with the host country.

"Im disappointed that you wont be included," Mr Trudeau told Mr Zelensky during a phone conversation which was to mark the Eastern European countrys independence day.

"As you know, we will be speaking up strongly for you, and we will continue to make sure that the world is standing with Ukraine," Mr Trudeau added.

Indian foreign minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar had earlier confirmed that a discretionary invite was not extended to Mr Zelensky, despite the leaders request to Mr Modi.

India has instead invited nine other non-G20 countries to attend, including Spain, Bangladesh, Nigeria, Mauritius, Egypt, the Netherlands, Oman, Singapore and the United Arab Emirates.

It is seen as part of Indias efforts to keep geopolitically divisive issues from scuppering chances of reaching a consensus during the economic forum.

Indias G20 Sherpa, Amitabh Kant, said last month that the Ukraine war was not on Indias list of priorities for its G20.

The Kremlin has not yet confirmed whether Mr Putin will take part in the G20 summit in any capacity through a video link.

Mr Putin has scarcely set foot outside Russia since the Ukraine war began, and avoided travelling to the Brics summit in Johannesburg last week. His decision to address the talks via video link was largely seen as an outcome of the arrest warrant issued by the International Criminal Court, to which South Africa is a signatory.

Russia will itself be the host of the Brics summit next year, when the grouping will have an expande membership including six more nations.

On Tuesday, Mr Putin once again congratulated Mr Modi for Indias successful lunar exploration mission, after it became the first to achieve a soft landing near the Moons uncharted south pole with Chandrayaan-3.

Vladimir Putin and Narendra Modi stated that the two countries trade and economic cooperation showed positive dynamics and expressed their shared intention to consistently implement large-scale energy projects and work together to expand the international transport and logistics infrastructure, the Kremlin said.

It added that they discussed the importance of Brics expansion which undoubtedly would promote the growth of its influence in international affairs.
On Monday, there was a split screen of two high-stakes hearings. Both hearings were related to Donald Trumps effort to overturn the 2020 election, and both will have massive ramifications for Trump, his co-defendants, and the country.

In DC, Donald Trump was dealt a huge loss. US District Court Judge Tanya Chutkan heard arguments from Special Counsel prosecutors and Trumps defense lawyers about their proposed trial dates for the federal election subversion case. The hearing got so heated that Judge Chutkan had to tell Trumps defense to "take the temperature down" twice. The Trump teams bombast didnt help their cause. Judge Chutkan set a trial date for March 4, 2024. This is one day before Super Tuesday and three weeks before Trumps Hush Money trial scheduled for March 25, 2024.

In Georgia, the ruling has yet to be issued, but the hearing did not go well for Team MAGA. Trumps former Chief of Staff Mark Meadows sought to move Fulton Countys 2020 election subversion case to federal court. Fulton County DA Fani Willis is prosecuting the case, which involves a 41-count indictment, including a RICO charge, targeting 19 co-defendants, including Meadows and Trump. With nearly four hours of surprise testimony from Mark Meadows and Fani Willis laying out her case with testimony from Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger , Mondays hearing was a mini-trial glimpse into whats to come.

US District Court Judge Steve Jones heard all the testimony and didnt rule from the bench but said he would as fast as possible. Whatever the result, it will have implications for the other 18 co-defendants, including Donald Trump.

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The hearings greatly impact how these 2020 election subversion cases will be prosecuted. The DC case, in particular, will have an enormous impact on the 2024 campaign season, as Donald Trump will be compelled to jump between the courthouse and the campaign trail.

Lets break down these hearings, their rulings (potential outcomes in the case of Georgia), and their impact.

DC Hearing: Federal Election Subversion Case

The Hearing

No cameras were allowed in this hearing, so we had to rely on journalists in the courtroom, like The Independents Andrew Feinberg.

Judge Chutkan began the hearing by rebuffing both the prosecutions proposed date, January 2024, and the defenses absurd proposed date of April 2026. She then explained that justice should be the first consideration, not the defendants schedule.

Setting a trial date does not depend and should not depend on the defendants personal and professional obligations. Mr. Trump, like any defendant, will have to make the trial date work regardless of his schedule, Chutkan said. Notably, she referred to Trump as "Mr Trump" once again, further highlighting her point that Trump should be treated like any defendant.

Prosecutor Molly Gaston outlined how theyve structured the millions of pages of documents to expedite discovery, and Judge Chutkan agreed. Gaston also cited Trumps incendiary social media posts as a reason to accelerate the trial schedule. Judge Chutkan then called on Trumps defense attorney, John Lauro, who decided to launch into an angry screed.

We need adequate time to prepare. For the government to suggest I can do that in four months is an outrage," Lauro exclaimed. Lauro was getting louder, nearly yelling at this point, according to multiple reporters in the courtroom. "Mr Trump  President Trump  is entitled to a fair trial. This is a request for a show trial, not a speedy trial!"

Judge Chutkan urged Lauro to "take the temperature down a bit," but Lauro continued. Chutkan interjected again.

"Mr Lauro, as I said, lets take the temperature down... I understand Mr Trump is presumed innocent, as is every defendant... Lets not overlook the fact that Mr. Trump has considerable resources that every defendant does not usually have."

Lauro replied: "Never in the history of the United States have we seen a case of this magnitude go to trial in four months."

"I understand, Mr Lauro," Judge Chutkan responded. "But youre not going to get two more years. This is not going to trial in 2026."

The Ruling

After some more back and forth and a brief recess, Judge Chutkan set the trial date for March 4, 2024. She said she had already spoken to Judge Juan Merchan, overseeing the New York Hush Money case, and let him know that this case could bleed into his trial on March 25. Judge Chutkan said shell be watching for any efforts to "poison" the jury pool, clearly indicating if Trump continues to attack this process on social media, it will only continue to backfire legally.

Trumps lawyer John Lauro responded to the ruling with a statement that should concern Donald Trump: "We will certainly abide by your honors ruling, as we must. We will not be able to provide adequate representation... the trial date will deny President Trump the opportunity to have effective assistance of counsel."

The Impact

This March 4, 2024, trial date has legal and political ramifications. It adds yet another case Trumps lawyers will have to be prepared to contend with as Trump campaigns for president. The road to election day is paved with trials: The Trump Organization fraud trial is in October 2023; the second E Jean Carroll defamation trial is in January 2024; the Hush Money trial is currently scheduled for March 25, 2024; and the classified document trial is scheduled for May 20, 2024.

Politically, this trial date throws an enormous wrench into the GOP primary season. Just one day before Super Tuesday, one of the most important days in our democratic process, Donald Trump is set to go to trial for his attack on that same democratic process. One day before they hit the polls, voters will be reminded of January 6 and Trumps mountain of legal troubles. It may mobilize Trumps die-hard supporters, but it could also motivate Republican voters concerned about his electability to maybe vote for an alternative.

How will the public perceive this March 4, 2024 trial date? We already have some polling that gives us some clues. An August 25 Politico/Ipsos poll found that 59% of Americans feel the election subversion trial should happen before the GOP primary, and 61% feel this case should go to trial before the general election. Judge Chutkans date appears to be within the time frame Americans want.

A conviction for crimes this serious in the middle of the GOP primary could have unpredictable impacts. Republican voters might say now that they back Trump, but when the reality sets in, and if a conviction lands, they could behave differently. A lot can change in six months.

Georgia Hearing: Fulton County Election Subversion Case

The Hearing

No cameras or phones were allowed in this hearing, so we had to rely on reporters on the ground in Fulton County to relay developments from this hearing. In a shock to many, Meadows showed up and testified at length.

The crux of Mark Meadowss motion to move his Fulton County prosecution to federal court is an argument that the actions outlined in the indictment were part of his duties as Chief of Staff. He claimed that the meetings he organized and took part in, texts he sent, and an observation of an audit in Cobb County, Georgia, were just him performing his official duties as the Chief of Staff. According to Meadowss argument, this means that his Fulton County case should be prosecuted in federal court.

"I dont know that I did anything that was outside of my role as chief of staff," Meadows told the court.

Meadowss choice to testify came at a cost  his claims were met with tough cross-examination. The problem for Meadows is that his actions included alleged crimes, like the January 2, 2021, phone call to urge Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger to "find" 11,780 votes to overturn Bidens win. Prosecutor Anna Cross hammered this point in cross-examination. Meadows said he didnt know whether the Trump attorneys on the call were Trumps campaign attorneys or Trumps personal lawyers. The prosecutor asked Meadows why he wanted them on the call if he didnt know their roles. Judge Jones reportedly shook his head at his moment.

These actions were clearly not performed in a federal capacity; they were campaign activities in service of Donald Trumps corrupt scheme to overturn the 2020 election. If anything, these actions would violate the Hatch Act, which prohibits federal employees from participating in campaign activities in their official capacity. While on the stand, Meadows claimed the Hatch Act does apply to the Chief of Staff but that he didnt believe his actions violated it. DA Willis cited the Hatch Act in her court filings as a law showcasing that the kind of actions Meadows was taking were not permitted.

Mark Meadows seen in his police booking photo (FULTON COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE/A)

The defense rested its case, and the prosecution called Brad Raffensperger to testify. Raffensperger claimed that Meadowss efforts to reach him came long before the January 2 call, as far back as November 2020. Raffensperger said, Outreach to that extent was extraordinary. The prosecution played a clip of the January 2 call. Under questioning, Raffensperger noted that no DOJ or White House Counsel was on the call, stating, "I thought that it was a campaign call." That was devastating to Meadowss claims that his actions were performed as part of his official duties as Chief of Staff.

After both sides issued their closing arguments and reaffirmed their fundamental arguments, the hearing ended with no ruling.

The Potential Ruling

Judge Jones did not issue a ruling from the bench on Monday evening, but he promised to deliberate and issue one "as fast as possible." Judge Jones reportedly said that Meadows must still appear for his newly scheduled September 6 arraignment, even if he doesnt issue a ruling by then on this motion to move the case to federal court.

The Potential Impact

If this approach, which is also being argued by several of Meadowss co-defendants, is agreed to by Judge Jones, then it would greatly benefit Meadows and could provide a path for similar motions to proceed. If this is moved to federal court, it would offer Meadows a larger jury pool, possible immunity from charges given his role in federal government, and no cameras in the courtroom. But his arguments were dubious at best. Well see if the Obama-appointed judge humors them.

If this motion is struck down, then Meadowss case will remain in state court. The ruling could be seen as a bellwether case to other co-defendants. It could dissuade them from pursuing this motion further and prove to be an indicator of how future motions will be ruled on.

Two of Trumps attorneys were reportedly in the courtroom listening to the hearing. They will be awaiting this ruling with bated breath to decide what Donald Trump should do next.
From left, African American Heritage Society of Maury County founder and President Jo Ann McClellan stands with Maury County Library interim Director Jackie Burkeen at the new Voices and Votes: Democracy in America exhibit, which will be on display until Oct. 1

The history of voting contains many stories, moments and notable people, which not only led to the U.S. voting process, but also secured voting rights for Black citizens and women.

The "Voices and Votes: Democracy in America" exhibit at the Maury County Library, presented by the African American Heritage Society of Maury County shows the historic journey to secure the right to vote and how it applies to modern times.

The exhibit, which is just part of a much larger display at the Smithsonian National Museum, debuted at the library earlier this month, and will remain open through Oct. 1.

One of many panels featured in the Voices and Votes: Democracy in America exhibit, which is based on a larger exhibit at the Smithsonian National Museum.

Much of the exhibit shows the forming of the country through the Civil Rights movement, going back to the pre-Revolutionary War period.

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"This exhibit starts at this point, the great leap of faith that led to the formation of the Constitution of the United States, and it's done in six different sections," AAHS founder and president Jo Ann McClellan said.

Of the many things that make Voices and Votes unique, it is also one of only six approved for display in Tennessee.

More: African American Heritage Society plans big year for Black history

And getting approved was no easy task and dates back to 2019, McClellan said, when the AAHS applied for a community outreach grant with Humanities Tennessee.

"The purpose was that Humanities Tennessee wanted people to do outreach projects during COVID, while everyone was stuck in their homes. So, originally what we did was apply for $6,000 for a website," McClellan said. "After we got the website up, Humanities Tennessee contacted us and asked if we wanted to host this exhibit."

'A Leap of Faith' and local history

A stipulation for approving the display involved pairing the history of voting with the history and progress of the town in which the exhibit is presented.

African American Heritage Society of Maury County founder and Maury County historian Jo Ann McClellan presents the Leap of Faith exhibit, which focuses on Maury County history and is presented along with the Voices and Votes: Democracy in America exhibit currently at the Maury County Library.

For Maury County, McClellan said the AAHS adopted the "leap of faith" theme featured in the main exhibit, which ties into the country's foundation, while also pairing with the progress made locally.

While the main exhibit's theme predates the Revolutionary War, the local "exhibit-within-an-exhibit" ties in with themes such as the abolishment of slavery, Maury County's rich history in education, Columbia black-owned businesses, as well as notable individuals, who were and still are considered groundbreaking and innovative.

More: African American Heritage Society of Maury to host Smithsonian exhibit at library

Each Leap of Faith panel also features a quote regarding the importance of voting, as well as the future of voting as the country began to take shape during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

"This is about how Maury County history folds into the national story of democracy in America," McClellan said. "Our leap in faith was the Civil War and the belief that we would be free, and on a national level, it was the starting of the country and the Declaration of Independence."

African American Heritage Society of Maury County founder and Maury County historian Jo Ann McClellan speaks about the history of the former Freedman's Bureau School, which is part of the Leap of Faith exhibit, which focuses on Maury County history along with the Voices and Votes exhibit currently at the Maury County Library.

While the exhibit is a dazzling display of the country's evolution in the right to vote, McClellan said presenting the local strides in Maury County toward freedom are something she takes much pride in. She said she enjoys sharing the milestones in Black history with the community, which are gathered through her countless hours researching, sifting through photographs and contacting surviving descendants.

In her experience, not only do many people not know about Maury County Black history, but that they often don't believe what they hear is true.

"A lot of our African American history has never been written about, or really hasn't been studied until I started doing it 20 years ago," McClellan, a Santa Fe native, said. "I started studying about my family, and every time I would do it, it would lead into more Maury County history, which is why I started the AAHS organization, because everyone knows about slavery and the race riots, but they don't know about any of the other history."

McClellan said a rich story exists within Maury County and should be appreciated at the level it deserves.

An interactive experience, but not political

The Voices and Votes exhibit is designed and intended for all ages, but much of its purpose is to educate young people about the history of the country.

It also encourages them to register when they reach 18.

Multiple video and computer stations create a hands-on, interactive experience coupled with physical photographs, artifacts, relics and placards adorned with important quotes and information.

Kids interact with one of the many panels featured at the Voices and Votes: Democracy in America exhibit currently on display at the Maury County Library.

"There are three interactive stations, where people can see interviews where others are exercising their civil rights," McClellan said. "There are six sections available to see, which is really interesting, like a self-guided tour. There are a million pieces here, and it all arrived in 16 crates. It took us four nights to set up."

McClellan explained that the nonpolitical exhibit includes vintage pins, protest signs, magazines and other items, dating back to the administrative eras of Ronald Reagan, Bill Clinton, Gerald Ford and Jimmy Carter to view, or for some, to perhaps remember.

The Voices and Votes: Democracy in America exhibit debuted at the Maury County Library in August, presented by the African American Heritage Society of Maury County. The interactive exhibit will remain on display through Oct. 1.

Still, the focus and message of "Voices and Votes: Democracy in America" is to learn about the country's origins, its voting process over the years, as well as how Maury County was involved throughout the years in becoming a thriving community with its own storied past worth learning about.

"I have a list I like to call 'hidden figures,' and they are people I like to consider as innovators in community building for Maury County," McClellan said. "But people don't know about these stories. They know about the 1946 Race Riots, or whatever else they want to know about. But these stories haven't been written about or really researched, but these are the stories people need to know."

Jay Powell is a general reporter for The Daily Herald. Get up-to-date news in your inbox by subscribing to The Daily Herald newsletter at www.ColumbiaDailyHerald.com

This article originally appeared on The Daily Herald: Voices and Votes exhibit chronicles country's origin, local history
NASHVILLE, TN - APRIL 10: State Rep. Justin Jones of Nashville raises his fist after being reinstated to his seat on April 10, 2023 in Nashville, Tennessee. The move comes days after the Democrat was expelled for leading a protest on the House floor for gun reform in the wake of a mass shooting at a Christian school in which three 9-year-old students and three adults were killed by a 28-year-old former student on March 27. (Photo: Seth Herald (Getty Images)



NASHVILLE, TN - APRIL 10: State Rep. Justin Jones of Nashville raises his fist after being reinstated to his seat on April 10, 2023 in Nashville, Tennessee. The move comes days after the Democrat was expelled for leading a protest on the House floor for gun reform in the wake of a mass shooting at a Christian school in which three 9-year-old students and three adults were killed by a 28-year-old former student on March 27. (Photo: Seth Herald (Getty Images)

Tennessee voters overwhelmingly rejected Tennessee Republicans decision to toss two Black lawmakers out of the state legislature. But even though voters brought state representatives Justin Jones (D-Nashville) and Justin Pearson (D-Memphis) back, that doesnt mean Republicans are ready to play nice. Instead, GOP lawmakers once again made it clear that their way of governing isnt strong enough to stand up to dissent.

On Monday, GOP lawmakers voted to silence Rep. Jones for violating a rule that was only enacted last week. The rule, ushered in by the conservative majority, allows any member to be silenced if they stray away from discussing the bill up for debate. If youve ever watched C-SPAN for even five minutes, then you know how petty this ismembers of legislative bodies commonly use their floor time to bring up issues important to their constituents, even when the topic is unrelated to a specific bill on the floor. Its literally what legislators are there to do, and has been practiced by members of both parties in Tennessee and elsewhere...until now.

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The events on Monday indicate that despite a clear signal from the voters in the legislators districts, Republicans are dead-set on keeping Jones and Pearson quiet. But no worries; Jones hasnt emptied the clip yet. Hes called for a vote of no-confidence on Sexton, and he and other Dems walked out of the chamber in a show of unity over the effort to keep him quiet.

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The fate of the Wagner Group is in the hands of Vladimir Putin and the Kremlin.

The New York Times reported the Russian Defense Ministry was considering absorbing the group.

An ex-GRU officer told Insider the group's current quasi-independent arrangement wouldn't last long.

Kremlin officials are considering the fate of the Wagner Group and its soldiers after Yevgeny Prigozhin, the mercenary group's boss, died last week in a plane crash shrouded in suspicion.

The Russian Defense Ministry, which Prigozhin spoke out against in June over an allegation that a missile attack killed his fighters, is likely trying to restructure the mercenary group in its favor, Western intelligence officials told The New York Times.

Already, the Russian Defense Ministry has created private military companies that are recruiting Wagner staff, in hopes of taking over Wagner's presence in the Middle East and Africa, the Institute for the Study of War said.

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A former Russian intelligence official told Insider that after Prigozhin used Wagner as a vehicle to challenge the Kremlin, the group would be transformed in a way to serve only Putin.

"The Wagner Group will disappear rather soon," Boris Volodarsky, a former captain in Russia's Spetsnaz GRU special forces and a fellow with the Royal Historical Society in London, told Insider.

"Serious people," he said, referring to Putin and his secret service, "do not play games."

Last week, Russian state media reported the boss of the Wagner mercenary group was among 10 passengers who died after his business jet crashed in the Tver region outside Moscow.

Over the weekend, DNA testing confirmed his death. Also aboard the flight were the Wagner founder Dmitry Utkin and the group's head of security, Valery Chekalov, Russia's aviation agency said.

As the Kremlin ponders whether to memorialize Prigozhin with a military funeral amid the Ukrainian counteroffensive, here are some of the ways that Russia's military leadership may handle the leaderless mercenary group.

The Russian Defense Ministry is mulling its options for Wagner

One option that the Kremlin has considered for reform is to force Wagner staff to report directly to the Defense Ministry or the GRU, Russia's intelligence agency, the Times reported.

As tensions mounted between Wagner and Putin this summer, the Kremlin mandated that Wagner recruits sign contracts with the Russian army  which Prigozhin resisted.

Volodarsky told Insider that the group's current format and partial independence, under the Wagner name, will soon become a thing of the past.

Last week, the Institute for the Study of War cited Russian reports as saying the Kremlin was no longer subsidizing Belarus for its hosting of Wagner fighters who set up camp there after Prigozhin's mutiny. That means the soldiers' paychecks have been cut as the Kremlin mulls its next move  leading some to resign.

The Kremlin is likely weighing whether to fold Wagner into its Defense Ministry fully or find a new Wagner figurehead who won't be critical of Putin, the Institute for the Study of War reported, with the latter option being less likely.

Western officials don't believe Wagner staff will be allowed to choose their next leader, the Times reported. But the Kremlin is unwilling to let the group completely filter out, given its military successes in Bakhmut, Ukraine, and abroad, the Times reported.

Over his years in command, Prigozhin and his forces became a key security ally for Mali and the Central African Republic's government, which, in turn, helped Putin drum up African support for Russia's agenda in the region and Ukraine, The Associated Press reported.

After months of Wagner troops battling Ukrainian troops on behalf of Russia, in June Prigozhin said Russia's Defense Ministry carried out a missile strike against Wagner positions at an undisclosed location in Ukraine, which he said killed a "huge amount" of mercenaries.

In his tirade, Prigozhin said the ministry "must be stopped" and the people responsible for the death of Wagner fighters must be punished. Moscow's security services responded by announcing a criminal case against Prigozhin, charging him with inciting an armed rebellion  a case that was later dropped.

Wagner fighters then captured the southern Russian city of Rostov-on-Don, a central command for its war in Ukraine, and headed toward Moscow.

Days later, Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko brokered a peace deal in which Prigozhin called off the rebellion in exchange for immunity in Belarus.

Read the original article on Business Insider
Belarusian opposition politician Pavel Latushko , head of the National Anti-Crisis Management organisation and deputy head of the United Transitional Cabinet of Belarus, has said that Wagner Group members in Belarus are being issued new passports.

Source: Latushko in an interview with Polish broadcaster RAR

Quote: "We have confirmed information that Wagner Group members are being issued with Belarusian passports  real documents, but issued in other names.

This means they can simply enter the EU through border crossings to commit sabotage and terrorist acts."

Details: Latushko also added that several thousand mercenaries from the Wagner Group remain in Belarus.

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And Belarusian dictator Alexander Lukashenko would like them to stay in the country, but "he does not have sufficient financial resources to maintain a large group of fighters".

Latushko noted that some from the Wagner Group will go to Africa, some will sign contracts with the Russian Defence Ministry, and others will resign or stay in Belarus.

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The editorial board of The Wall Street Journal is calling the March 2024 court date set for former President Trump in the Justice Department case regarding his efforts to remain in office after the 2020 election a mess.

What a spectacular mess, the Journal wrote. Mr. Trump made himself legally vulnerable with his terrible behavior, but the timing of the 2020 election case is the Justice Departments doing. Special counsel Jack Smith finally moved to secure an indictment two and a half years after the alleged conduct and less than six months before the 2024 primaries begin.

A federal judge this week set Trumps trial date in the case for March 4. That falls one day before Super Tuesday, when hundreds of delegates will be up for grabs in the GOP presidential primary. The Journal said that as a result, at least some Republican voters from early and Super Tuesday states will probably see their ballots as a chance to protest what they view as unfair treatment of Mr. Trump.

Voting for him will be their way of giving the establishment the middle finger, the newspaper argued, saying Trump could have the nomination sewn up before a verdict arrives and voters learn whether hes a convicted felon.

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The Journal, which is owned by media mogul Rupert Murdoch, has long been critical of Trumps behavior and political rhetoric.

The former president leads most Republican primary polls by double digits and has argued the charges he faces in all four cases in which he has been indicted are political in nature.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
TOKYO, Aug. 29 (Xinhua) -- The Chinese Embassy in Japan has reiterated China's firm opposition to Japan's ocean discharge of nuclear-contaminated wastewater from the crippled Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant, urging the Japanese government to immediately stop the move.

Chinese Ambassador to Japan Wu Jianghao elaborated on China's solemn position during his meeting with Japanese Vice Foreign Minister Masataka Okano upon the latter's request on Monday.

Lodging solemn representations of the nuisance suffered by the Chinese embassy and consulates in Japan, he noted that the Chinese embassy and consulates in Japan have recently received a large number of harassing phone calls from Japan, which has seriously disrupted their normal operations.

China urges the Japanese side to handle the matter in accordance with law and earnestly protect the safety of the Chinese embassy and consulates, institutions, enterprises and citizens in Japan, as well as Chinese tourists visiting the country, said Wu.

In response to Japan's concerns over the safety of its diplomatic missions and citizens in China, he said that China will continue to protect the safety of the Japanese embassy and consulates in China while safeguarding the legitimate rights and interests of Japanese citizens in China in accordance with the law.

The ambassador stressed that Japan, by starting the ocean discharge of Fukushima nuclear-contaminated wastewater despite strong doubts and objections at home and abroad, is bringing great risks, hidden dangers, and unpredictable harm to the global marine environment as well as mankind's health and safety, which has aroused strong indignation from the international community including China.

There are serious moral, scientific and legal problems in Japan's ocean discharge, the Chinese embassy said, urging the Japanese side to immediately stop its wrongdoing, communicate honestly with neighboring countries in a truly responsible manner, accept strict supervision by the international community, and earnestly adopt a scientific, safe and transparent way to dispose of nuclear-polluted water.

Japan started releasing nuclear-contaminated wastewater from the crippled plant into the Pacific Ocean on Thursday at around 1:00 p.m. local time (0400 GMT), in disregard of concerns and opposition persisted among local fishermen as well as in neighboring nations and Pacific island countries.

Hit by a magnitude-9.0 earthquake and an ensuing tsunami on March 11, 2011, the plant suffered core meltdowns that released radiation, resulting in a level-7 nuclear accident, the highest on the International Nuclear and Radiological Event Scale.

The plant has been generating a massive amount of water tainted with radioactive substances from cooling down the nuclear fuel in the reactor buildings, which are now being stored in about 1,000 storage tanks.

Tokyo Electric Power Company, the plant's operator, said it plans to carry out the first round of release over 17 days to discharge 7,800 tons of the radioactive wastewater. 
The United States has prepared a new Ukraine security assistance package worth $250 million, largely focused on HIMARS ammunition, demining equipment, and Javelin anti-tank missiles, the U.S. State Department said in a message on its website on Aug. 29.

Today we are announcing the next package of military assistance to aid Ukraine as it defends its territory and protects its people, the message reads.

Read also: Germany commits 2.7 billion euros in military assistance to Ukraine, including tanks, drones, air defense systems

Russia started this war and could end it at any time by withdrawing its forces from Ukraine and stopping its brutal attacks. Until it does, the United States and our allies and partners will stand united with Ukraine, for as long as it takes.

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The announcement provides the following breakdown of U.S. assistance:

- Missiles for AIM-9M air defense systems;

- Ammunition for HIMARS rocket artillery systems;

- 155mm and 105mm artillery shells;

- Demining equipment;

- Javelin and other anti-tank systems;

- Over three million rounds of small arms ammunition;

- Ambulances;

- Ammunition for obstacle clearance;

- Spare parts, services, and training.

Read also: Zelenskyy holds talks with Biden

On Aug. 10, U.S. President Joe Biden asked Congress for $40 billion in emergency funding that includes $24 billion for Ukraine and other countries impacted by the war.

On Aug. 27, media reported that the Biden administration is convinced of the need to continue supplying arms to Ukraine. According to their sources, the most favored approach is to supply cluster munitions for Multiple Launch Rocket Systems.

Were bringing the voice of Ukraine to the world. Support us with a one-time donation, or become a Patron!

Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
During a hurricane, live beach cams let you safely see the winds and waves.

Many Myrtle Beach area resorts and restaurants live stream their views. For most of the year, these web cams show tranquil beach scenes for visitors longing for the ocean.

Idalia strengthened to a hurricane early Tuesday morning as it heads to the Florida coast, according to the National Weather Service Hurricane Center. Current models has the storm reaching South Carolina around early Thursday.

When a storm like Idalia hits, the cameras turn into valuable tools for locals and tourists alike to witness the effects of the hurricane in real time.

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The South Carolina Department of Transportation has live traffic cameras throughout the area to help track road conditions.

After you identify local emergency contacts and see if your area is likely to flood, check out these 23 beach cams to watch a hurricane.

This embedded content is not available in your region.

Myrtle Beach live streams

Ripleys Aquarium at Broadway at the Beach

Ocean Lakes Family Campground

Myrtle Beach Boardwalk - facing north

Myrtle Beach Boardwalk - facing south

Springmaid Pier

18th Ave. South

Breakers Resort

Grande Shores Resort

Sea Watch Resort

Captains Quarters Resort

Crown Reef Beach Resort

Sea Captains House Restaurant

North Myrtle Beach live streams

Prince Resort Cherry Grove Pier

Avista Resort North Myrtle Beach

Elliot Realty North Myrtle Beach

North Beach Resort & Villas

Coquina Harbor in Little River

Little River Swing Bridge and Harbourgate Marina

Surfside Beach, Murrells Inlet and south end beaches live streams

Murrells Inlet Marshwalk from Dead Dog Saloon

Surfside Beach Surfcam

Pawleys Pier Village

Blackmoor Golf Club

Gulfstream Cafe

Webcams: Watch Hurricane Ians effects on Beaufort County traffic, beaches
Aug. 29 (UPI) -- Police in New Jersey announced a public park will remain closed for 72 hours while authorities search for an alligator confirmed to be on the loose in the area.

The Middlesex Borough Police Department said it first received a report of an alligator at Victor Crowell Park on Wednesday, and further sightings were reported on subsequent days.

The department said officers were able to locate the alligator on Saturday and one officer discharged a firearm in an attempt to neutralize the gator, but it was unclear whether the shot connected.

Local residents reported spotting the alligator again Monday morning, and local police resumed their search alongside New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection Conservation Police.

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Police used drones to search for the gator in the area of Lake Creigton and Ambrose Brook. One of the drones ended up stuck in a tree.

"In the interest of the public safety of our community, Victor Crowell Park will be closed to the public for a minimum of 72 hours or until such time that the alligator is deemed to no longer be a threat," Middlesex Police Chief Matthew Geist said Monday on the department's Facebook page.

The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection is asking anyone who spots the alligator, estimated to be 3 to 4 feet long, to contact Fish and Wildlife officials so they can set a humane trap.

Alligators are not legal to keep as pets in New Jersey.
Southwest Florida communities hit by Hurricane Ian last year, including Sanibel, Fort Myers Beach and Marco Island, started to feel the effects of Idalia on Tuesday as the strengthening hurricane got closer to the Sunshine State.

Videos taken by reporters and residents show coastal flooding and strong wind gusts in areas still recuperating from Ians devastation, which killed more than 100 people and caused billions of dollars in damage.

Watch the footage:

Water rushes beach access in Sanibel

Lee Countys Sanibel island began to experience minor coastal flooding on Tuesday. Sanibel Causeway, the only way in and out of the island by car, had a major downpour Tuesday afternoon, affecting drivers visibility.

#Idalia: Eerie live video that we brought to you live on @NBC2 with @chrisredreports and @kylagaler just minutes ago. Wind and rain at the Sanibel Causeway is blinding.



It makes me wonder what this area looked like during the worst of Ian 11 months ago...



Stay off the roads. pic.twitter.com/f0PTbDxaNZ  Gage Goulding - NBC2 (@GageGoulding) August 29, 2023

Live view of Sanibel Causeway. Visibility is poor as this rain band moves through. Livestream @NBC2 here: https://t.co/tISl6aBaWt pic.twitter.com/jHhU4bou2h  Rob Duns (@RobDunsTV) August 29, 2023

#Idalia: Water rushing up a beach access on Sanibel Island as high tide mixes with the first bands of Hurricane Idalia.@NBC2 pic.twitter.com/Vy2aEEVeeo  Gage Goulding - NBC2 (@GageGoulding) August 29, 2023

Strong winds in Sanibel as an outer band from #Idalia works its way through. https://t.co/JTCvPzkiMX pic.twitter.com/WGeuNG1zXI  Lauren Kreidler (@WeatherWithLaur) August 29, 2023

READ MORE: Idalia is expected to hit as a Category 3 hurricane. When will Florida airports close?

Winds pick up in Fort Myers Beach

Fort Myers Beachs Time Square  still recovering from Ian  began to flood Tuesday as wind started to pick up.

The outer bands of Hurricane #Idalia are bringing rough surf and flooding to Florida's Gulf Coast. Footage captured in Fort Myers Beach this afternoon: pic.twitter.com/sQbWaY0din  AccuWeather (@accuweather) August 29, 2023

Wind picking up near DiamondHead on Fort Myers Beach @winknews pic.twitter.com/jkzm5ckcyD  Michael Hudak (@HudakTV) August 29, 2023

#Idalia: This hurricane has already claimed at least one vehicle. A van parked under the Matanzas Pass Bridge on Fort Myers Beach, FL has been inundated with salty sea water.



If you dont have to be here, get out!



: Jacinta Ingram/@TalkBeach pic.twitter.com/XjDaaBV18q  Gage Goulding - NBC2 (@GageGoulding) August 29, 2023

#Idalia: Winds are picking up on Fort Myers Beach as the area sees the first bands of Hurricane Idalia. Note the water rushing high above the normal rack line on the beach and into the Times Square area.@NBC2 pic.twitter.com/sTnawH8wtz  Gage Goulding - NBC2 (@GageGoulding) August 29, 2023

We are officially seeing our first flooding in Times Square on Fort Myers Beach @winknews pic.twitter.com/XPyzEHn034  Michael Hudak (@HudakTV) August 29, 2023

Surge already approaching Times Square on Fort Myers Beach @winknews pic.twitter.com/IzyvmR3Hfh  Michael Hudak (@HudakTV) August 29, 2023

READ MORE: Florida braces for Hurricane Idalia. 125 mph winds, 15-foot storm surge expected

Several tornado warnings on Marco Island

The area of Marco Island and Naples in Collier County had been under at least three separate tornado warnings as of 2 p.m. Tuesday. Some Naples roads flooded a bit. Meanwhile, classes in public schools werent canceled Tuesday and were set to continue Wednesday.

The @NHC_Atlantic has issued a tornado warning for parts of Marco Island & Goodland.



Portions of waterfront communities along S. Collier Blvd are already seeing water.



Our most recent on the ground update for @NBC2. #HurricaneIdalia pic.twitter.com/7QrabGlDkD  Ryan Clarke Arbogast (@ryanarbogastTV) August 29, 2023

READ MORE: Did you miss the last Florida hurricane tax holiday? Heres how to save on supplies
West Point archaeologist Paul Hudson, left, and West Point Museum curator Michael Diaz take part in the opening of a lead box believed to have been placed in the base of a monument by cadets almost two centuries ago. The box contained silt. (Michael Hill / Associated Press)

It was like a teaser to an HBO series finale.

After staff at the U.S. Military Academy discovered a nearly 200-year-old time capsule on campus in the spring, the possibilities of what were inside seemed endless.

Curious West Point cadets threw out their guesses: mess hall silverware, a U.S. flag, a pair of boots, a diary, a class ring and maps. Lt. Gen. Steve Gilland, superintendent of West Point, said in a statement that the capsules contents would add to the West Point story. Leading up to the reveal, the academy posted reminders on social media for people to livestream the event as we unlock secrets from the past.

The drama was high.

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Are we ready to see what is in that box? Jennifer Voigtschild, the West Point historian, called to the crowd to kick off the event.

Read more: One way to live forever? A time capsule, a Nevada historian says

A panel of historians filled the stage, and cadets flanked the wings. Staff stood ready to excavate the capsule's contents. At the center of the stage was the true star: a box made of lead, about 1 cubic foot, hidden away under a black sheet.

But all that buildup landed with a thud, when the big reveal Monday turned up nothing but mud. Literally.

The box didnt quite meet expectations, said Paul Hudson, an archaeologist at the academy.

Staff members at West Point found the time capsule in May during renovations to the 8-foot bronze statue of Thaddeus Kosciuszko, a Polish general, military engineer and rebel who fought in the American Revolution. They announced the finding in a news release this month .

Read more: Time capsules hidden too well for their own good

Historians estimated the capsule was stored at the base of the monument in 1828, some 26 years after the academy's founding.

The mystery and anticipation mounted in the months since. The physics department used a high-powered X-ray machine on the box, which revealed some anomalies on the interior that we think may be some objects, Hudson said. That is promising.

Hudson explained how the staff members would open the lead box and the precautions they would take, including wearing gloves, N95 masks and using a handheld vacuum with a HEPA filter.

Hudson held down the box, and Kevin Hultslander, the general supervisor at the West Point Garrison Public Works, chiseled away at a flap on the top.

Read more: FBI and European partners seize major malware network in blow to global cybercrime

What do we see? Voigtschild called out. A camera shakily zoomed in on the top of the container. Hudson pointed a small light inside the capsule and leaned his face close to get a good look.

Its empty, someone said. Hudson stuck his arm inside the box and came out empty handed. The crowd laughed.

After a few minutes examining some of the container's contents while historians discussed the importance of the Kosciuszko statue, Hudson delivered an update. A layer of silt had settled in the bottom of the box, he said.

Read more: Fearing economic disaster, Maui wants tourists to return. But feelings are complicated

We dont want to think that they went to all the trouble to put this box in the monument and not put anything in it, he said.

Officials plan to collect and screen the silt. The lid also contained a stamp from the manufacturer that Hudson said could lead staff down another path with more clues.

The mystery continues.

Sign up for Essential California for the L.A. Times biggest news, features and recommendations in your inbox six days a week.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Hurricane Idalia is expected to make landfall in several parts of Florida on Wednesday, with the potential for life-threatening storm surge and hurricane-force winds  though exactly where the storm could make landfall remains uncertain.

Idalia strengthened to a hurricane Tuesday morning in the Gulf of Mexico as it made its way toward the Sunshine State. The National Hurricane Center said Idalia could bring sustained winds of up to 120 mph on its path to Floridas western coast, which would make it a Category 3 hurricane.

A Category 3 hurricane is defined as a major hurricane, meaning devastating damage will occur, according to the Hurricane Center. A hurricane is intensified into a Category 3 storm once it hits sustained winds of more than 111 mph.

Uncertainty remains over where Idalia could make landfall, with any small wobble bringing the possibility of altering the storms curve and increasing its storm surge.

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Forecasters are predicting Idalia could come ashore early Wednesday as a Category 3 system along Floridas Big Bend region, which is loosely defined as south of where the Florida Panhandle curves into the peninsula north of Tampa.

Storm surge in Floridas Big Bend Region, especially between the Aucilla River and Yankeetown, could reach up to 15 feet.

In Levy County  which includes Cedar Key, Yankeetown, Fowlers Bluff and Fanning Springs in Floridas Big Bend  officials ordered a mandatory evacuation by 4 p.m. Tuesday. Residents and visitors of Cedar Key were asked to be off the island before the storm surge arrives because the islands bridges cannot withstand the storm conditions.

The Big Bend region may also experience destructive life-threatening winds that are likely to spread to other portions of Floridas Gulf Coast, the National Hurricane Center said. Those strong winds are predicted to spread inland across portions of northern Florida and southern Georgia.

The National Weather Center Service in Tallahassee called Idalia an unprecedented event as no other major hurricanes on record have ever passed through the bay adjacent to the Big Bend region.

Other parts of Floridas west coast, the Florida Panhandle and southern Georgia could also see areas of flash flooding Tuesday into Wednesday. Cities and areas along Floridas western coast, including Englewood, Indian Pass, Tampa Bay and Chokoloskee, are under storm surge warnings or watches.

At least 21 counties along the western coast of Florida were under evacuation notices, with eight of those counties under mandatory evacuation. The Hurricane Center urged residents to follow the advice or evacuation orders given by local officials.

If you are under an evacuation order, remember that you do NOT need to drive hundreds of miles, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis (R) wrote in a post on X, formerly known as Twitter. Find higher ground and listen to your local officials.

DeSantis declared a state of emergency ahead of the storm in 46 counties. He said the state is activating 5,500 members of the Florida National Guard, staging 200,000 gallons of fuel, and preparing seven urban search-and-rescue teams.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency said it also has activated its Response Coordination Center and deployed two incident management assistance teams to Florida.

Forecasters said the flooding could spread into parts of the eastern Carolinas Wednesday into Thursday. Both Georgia and North Carolina have declared a state of emergency ahead of the storm.

Meanwhile, heavy rainfall, flash flooding and landslides from Idalia are also expected across portions of western Cuba.

The Associated Press contributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Idalia is expected to become a major hurricane Tuesday night before it reaches Floridas Big Bend coast Wednesday morning.

It brings with it heavy rain, gusty winds and dangerous storm surge.

Nearly the entire Gulf Coast  along with Key West and the Lower Florida Keys  are under hurricane, tropical storm and storm surge watches and warnings.

Schools and airports have begun to announce closings ahead of Idalias expected arrival Wednesday. And some counties have already ordered mandatory evacuations.

What type of stormy weather will Idalia bring to the state? And when?

Heres what the track shows:

Where is Idalia now? And how strong is it?

Hurricane Idalia, a Category 2 storm, was about 155 miles southwest of Tampa and about 245 miles south of Tallahassee on Tuesday night, according to the National Hurricane Centers 8 p.m. advisory.

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The storm, which is moving north at 16 mph, is on its way to Category 3-level strength, with maximum sustained winds of 105 mph. It needs maximum sustained winds of at least 111 mph to be a Cat 3.

Hurricane-force winds extend up to 25 miles from the center, with tropical-storm-force winds extending up to 160 miles.

Hurricane Idalia, a Category 2 storm, was expected to keep strengthening as it closed in on Floridas Big Bend.

Where is Idalia going? How strong will it be?

Idalia is expected to move north to north-northeas Tuesday night, and its center is forecast to reach the Big Bend coast Wednesday morning with 115 mph winds. After landfall, the center of Idalia is forecast to turn toward the northeast and east-northeast, moving near or along the coasts of Georgia, South Carolina, and North Carolina late Wednesday and Thursday.

Because Idalia will be moving quickly, its possible it may remain a hurricane as it moves across the state and runs along southern Georgia toward South Carolinas coast.

It should be a tropical storm by the time its back into the Atlantic Ocean Thursday.

READ MORE: Which part of Florida will see the dirty side of Idalia and face the worst weather?

What type of weather will Idalia bring to Florida?

Forecasters expect the storm will bring hurricane and tropical storm-force winds, heavy rain, dangerous life-threatening storm surge, some possible tornadoes, and dangerous surf and rip current conditions along Floridas Gulf Coast.

Tropical storm conditions began Tuesday in the Dry Tortugas, off the Keys, and in parts of Floridas Gulf Coast that are under a tropical storm warning or hurricane warning. Hurricane conditions are expected within the hurricane warning area in Florida by Tuesday night or early Wednesday.

 Rain: Portions of Floridas west coast, the Florida Panhandle, southeast Georgia and the eastern Carolinas are forecast to see 4 to 8 inches of rain through Thursday, with some areas possibly seeing up to 12 inches of rain, primarily near the storms expected landfall in northern Florida.

Areas of flash, urban, and moderate river flooding, with locally considerable impacts, are expected across the Florida Big Bend, central Georgia and South Carolina, through eastern North Carolina later tonight into Thursday, the hurricane center said.

 Storm Surge: Idalia is also forecast to bring life-threatening storm surge to Floridas Gulf Coast, with some parts of the state expected to see up to 15 feet of surge, according to the hurricane center.

Hurricane Idalia is also forecast to bring life-threatening storm surge to Floridas Gulf Coast, with some parts of the state expected to see up to 15 feet of surge, according to the National Hurricane Center.

READ MORE: How much storm surge will Hurricane Idalia bring to Florida? See the risk by area

Idalia watches and warnings in Florida

Heres what the National Hurricane Center says:

 Hurricane Warning: Middle of Longboat Key northward to Indian Pass, including Tampa Bay

 Hurricane Watch: Mouth of the St. Marys River to Edisto Beach, South Carolina

 Tropical Storm Warning: Dry Tortugas, Florida; Chokoloskee northward to the middle of Longboat Key; West of Indian Pass to Mexico Beach; Sebastian Inlet, Florida to South Santee River, South Carolina

 Tropical Storm Watch: Lower Florida Keys west of the west end of the Seven Mile Bridge; North of Surf City, North Carolina to the North Carolina/Virginia border; Pamlico and Albemarle Sounds

 Storm Surge Watch: Englewood northward to Indian Pass, including Tampa Bay

Miami Herald staff writer Omar Rodriguez Ortiz contributed to this report.
Hurricane Idalia is now being tipped to become a Category 4 event, according to the National Hurricane Center, as it barrels towards the Big Bend region of Floridas Gulf Coast, where locals are bracing themselves for a life-threatening storm surge and dangerous high winds.

Idalia was upgraded from tropical storm status on Tuesday morning as it crossed the Gulf of Mexico and is forecast to hit northwestern Florida on Wednesday, packing 120mph winds, before blowing through southern Georgia, South Carolina and North Carolina and then back out into the Atlantic.

Western Cuba has already been hit by torrential rainfall and flooding from Idalia that could yet lead to mudslides, bringing further devastation to the tobacco-producing province of Pinar del Rio on Monday and Tuesday, which was hammered by Hurricane Ian last September. State media has yet to report any deaths in the area.

Residents of the Sunshine State have meanwhile been loading up on sandbags and many living in low-lying areas along the Gulf Coast have already packed up their cars, readied generators and evacuated their homes in preparation.

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When Idalia finally makes landfall, it will be the first storm to hit Florida this hurricane season, which tends to peak in August and September before coming to an end in late November.

It is expected to bring fresh destruction to a state that, like Cuba, is still dealing with the damage left behind by Hurricane Ian 11 months ago, which left 150 people dead and damaged 52,000 structures.

Florida governor and presidential candidate Ron DeSantis has declared a state of emergency in 46 counties, a broad swathe that stretches across the northern half of the state from the Gulf Coast to the Atlantic.

His state has also mobilised 5,500 National Guard members, who have 2,400 high-water vehicles and 12 aircraft at their disposal for rescue and recovery efforts.

A further 30,000 utility workers are on standby to make repairs where needed.

Mr DeSantiss counterparts in Georgia and South Carolina, Brian Kemp and Henry McMaster, have also declared emergencies.

5am EDT 30 Aug: #Idalia has become an extremely dangerous Category 4 hurricane, and is nearing landfall in Florida Big Bend region this morning. Catastrophic & life-threatening impacts from Storm Surge & Winds expected as Idalia moves ashore. https://t.co/y75tVkKVK7 pic.twitter.com/0NfINii9Mo  National Hurricane Center (@NHC_Atlantic) August 30, 2023

Floridas governor, who liaised with US president Joe Biden on Idalia in Monday, warned of a major impact during his Monday news conference, adding: The property  we can rebuild someones home. You cant unring the bell, though, if somebody stays in harms way and does battle with Mother Nature.

He said the Florida Department of Transportation would waive tolls on highways in the Tampa area and the Big Bend to help ease the flow of movement as residents seek to escape the path of the storm.

Tampa International Airport and St Pete-Clearwater International Airport have been closed and the Sunrail commuter rail service in Orlando has been suspended.

Many school districts along the Gulf Coast said they would be closed on Wednesday and several colleges and universities have likewise shut their campuses, including the University of Florida in Gainesville.

A map to show the expected path of Hurricane Idalia through Cuba, Florida, Georgia and the Carolinas (The Independent/Datawrapper)

A total of 22 counties in western Florida have issued evacuation notices, with mandatory orders in place for some people living in low-lying and coastal areas, for those living in mobile or manufactured homes, recreational vehicles and boats and for people who would be vulnerable in the event of a power outage.

Pasco and Levy counties, located north of Tampa, both ordered mandatory evacuations for some residents.

In the latter, officials said the 900 residents of Cedar Key were warned they must be off the island by Tuesday evening because storm surges bringing 15-foot waves would make bridges impassable.

One word: Leave. Its not something to discuss, said commissoner Sue Colson, making herself abundantly clear.

Hurricane Idalia is just the latest in a summer of natural disasters to hit North America, from deadly wildfires in Hawaii and Canada to the first tropical storm to hit California in 84 years  marking the latest illustrations of the climate crisis in action.

Additional reporting by agencies.
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN)  With the special session heading into its second week, there hasnt been much movement on any legislation. The Senate opted to table scores of bills whole cloth, instead opting to focus on three bills designated as priorities by Gov. Bill Lee and the requisite funding bill for the session.

The House, meanwhile, has spent more time taking up a host of bills on topics from guns and school safety to TBI reporting requirements and blended sentencing, putting the chambers at odds with each other in an increasingly longer stalemate between the controlling party caucuses.

So where are the bills now?

Gun-related bills

HB7064/SB7020

This bill by Rep. Chris Todd (RMadison County) would allow anyone with an enhanced carry permit to go on on school property for any pre-K-12 school in Tennessee, as well as active duty military, retired military, off-duty law enforcement and retired law enforcement. It would also eliminate a requirement for any off-duty law enforcement officer to notify a school principal of their presence while carrying.

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The bill was unpopular among those on Capitol Hill who hoped to see the special session end with some new laws on guns, like members of the Covenant Families Action Fund. They gave testimony against the bill in the House committee hearings, pleading with lawmakers not to put more guns in schools.

Todds bill passed the Civil Justice Subcommittee and full Civil Justice Committee along party lines but hit resistance in the Education Administration Committee. In addition to the four Democrats on the committee, Todd also lost support from five Republicans, with the final vote ending in a 9-9 deadlock. Because it did not receive a majority of the votes in committee, the bill failed.

HB7086/SB7019

This bill by Rep. Ryan Williams (RCookeville) would have allowed for teachers in all Tennessee schools to carry on school grounds, so long as they meet certain requirements. In order to qualify to carry on school grounds, they would be required to obtain an enhanced carry permit, submit to psychological evaluation by their law enforcement agency and complete 40 hours of active shooter training with their local law enforcement.

Williams said the bill would create a deterrent in all K-12 schools in Tennessee by being able to post a sign on the facilities letting the public know the school was protected by more than just their local law enforcement or school security officer.

Covenant families also protested Williams bill, saying some teachers at the March school shooting were so frightened that day that they couldnt even lock their classroom doors, let alone operate a firearm in school. They asked lawmakers to look at alternatives for school safety rather than putting more guns in learning institutions.

At the Civil Justice Committee meeting on Aug. 23, Williams opted to take the bill off notice in the House, citing the Senates lack of movement on the companion legislation.

2023 Special Session: Senate and House Republicans square off in cold war

HB7043/SB7023

Brought by Rep. Jody Barrett (RDickson), this bill would allow anyone in the state with an enhanced handgun carry permit to carry on school grounds unless a person knows that school provides for armed security on the property. It also allows community corrections officers to possess handguns on school property and prevents a school system from prohibiting employees or contractors from being armed on campus of all K-12 schools.

This bill was another measure criticized by Covenant families and other gun reform advocacy groups like Moms Demand Action.

Like Williams bill, Barrett ultimately took his bill off notice, effectively killing it for the special session. Barrett said he would like to have more discussions with stakeholders and make it better before bringing it forward again.

Barretts decision led to the room-clearing incident by Rep. Lowell Russell (RVonore), for which he later apologized.

HB7073/SB7027

One of Sextons priority bills would enact blended sentencing for juvenile offenders if they commit certain offenses from age 16 on. It would require juvenile courts to transfer those juveniles to adult criminal court upon certain findings. The measure has been criticized by gun reform groups like Moms Demand Action as well as experts from the juvenile court system and public defense system.

Critics say the bill would also eliminate judicial discretion on certain crimes for juveniles until they turn 19, as well as require judges to sentence juveniles to additional years in adult prison after they turn 19 if they commit certain crimes.

The bill sailed through committees in the House along party-line votes and was set for discussion on the House floor Monday, Aug. 28. The Senate, however, laid the bill on the table almost immediately upon introduction in the Senate Judiciary Committee.

HB7035/SB7079

This bill would create a new loan forgiveness grant program for individuals who become psychiatrists, psychologists, and counselors. Under the terms of the bill, people who qualify for the grant would be required to stay in Tennessee for at least five of seven years from the date of the grant application.

According to the fiscal review committee, the law would cost an estimated $21,850,000 annually.

The program met resistance in House committees but ultimately passed and was set to be heard on the House floor on Monday. The Senate, however, laid the bill on the table, effectively killing it for the special session.

HB7032/SB7091

This bill would require all Tennessee health insurance carriers, including TennCare providers, to provide coverage for mental health services and treatment to the same extent that the carriers and providers provide alcoholism and drug dependence services.

The bill sailed through all House subcommittees and committees on voice votes and was set to be heard on Monday afternoon, but the Senate laid it on the table in the Commerce and Labor Committee.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WREG.com.
Chinese and Cambodian artists perform during a joint cultural show to celebrate the 65th anniversary of the Cambodia-China diplomatic relations, in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, on Aug. 28, 2023. A joint cultural show was held here to celebrate the 65th anniversary of the Cambodia-China diplomatic relations, attracting thousands of spectators. Held at the Diamond Island's Grand Theater on Monday night, the event was jointly performed by a troupe of Chinese artists from Southwest China's Yunnan Province and a team of Cambodian artists from the Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts. (Photo by Phearum/Xinhua)

PHNOM PENH, Aug. 29 (Xinhua) -- A joint cultural show was held here to celebrate the 65th anniversary of the Cambodia-China diplomatic relations, attracting thousands of spectators.

Held at the Diamond Island's Grand Theater on Monday night, the event was jointly performed by a troupe of Chinese artists from Southwest China's Yunnan Province and a team of Cambodian artists from the Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts.

Speaking at the opening ceremony of the show, Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister and Cabinet Minister Vongsey Visoth said the show was a testament to the promotion of cultural and tourism exchanges between the two countries.

"China is a great friend who has helped Cambodia protect and develop our national heritage," he said.

He added that China has actively engaged in the restoration and preservation of Cambodia's cultural heritage sites through providing grant aid for the restoration of the Chau Say Tevoda temple, the Ta Keo temple, and the Royal Palace of the Angkor Thom in the Angkor Archeological Park in Siem Reap province and the Preah Vihear temple in Preah Vihear province, among others.

Meanwhile, Visoth highlighted that the China-proposed Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) has played an important role in boosting infrastructure connectivity, economics, trade, investment and people-to-people exchange between the two countries in a journey towards building a Cambodia-China community with a shared future.

He said Chinese major investment projects in Cambodia under the BRI included the Sihanoukville Special Economic Zone, the Phnom Penh-Sihanoukville Expressway, the Phnom Penh-Bavet Expressway, the Siem Reap-Angkor international airport, the Morodok Techo National Stadium and two friendship hospitals, among others.

"Chinese investment and aid have greatly contributed to the socioeconomic development and the improvement of people's livelihoods and well-being in Cambodia," Visoth said.

Chinese Ambassador to Cambodia Wang Wentian said amity between peoples is the key to the relationship between countries.

"China attaches great importance to cultural exchanges and people-to-people interactions between the two nations," he said at the opening ceremony.

The ambassador said over the past 65 years, China and Cambodia have helped each other and shared weal and woe.

"Our relationship has withstood the test of time and evolving international landscape, growing from strength to strength," Wang said. "It has become a model for jointly building a new type of international relations and building a community with a shared future for mankind."

During the two-hour glittering cultural show, Chinese artists presented ethnic songs and dances, while Cambodian artists performed classical blessing dance, mask dance and folk songs.

Each of the performances had drawn hearty rounds of applause from the audience.

Keang Mouyhea, a 16-year-old student at the Secondary School of Fine Arts, said it was a splendid and colorful show, as all artists are very professional and talented.

"The show has helped us to know better about the unique cultures of Cambodia and China," she told Xinhua.

"The Chinese artists had performed well together and their gestures were vivid and interesting," she added.

Ean Rithysak, a 19-year-old student at the Royal University of Fine Arts, said it was his first time to see Chinese cultural show by his own eyes.

"The show not only helps promote Cambodia-China cultural ties, but also increase people-to-people bond of friendship," he told Xinhua. 

Chinese artists perform during a joint cultural show to celebrate the 65th anniversary of the Cambodia-China diplomatic relations, in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, on Aug. 28, 2023. A joint cultural show was held here to celebrate the 65th anniversary of the Cambodia-China diplomatic relations, attracting thousands of spectators.

Held at the Diamond Island's Grand Theater on Monday night, the event was jointly performed by a troupe of Chinese artists from Southwest China's Yunnan Province and a team of Cambodian artists from the Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts. (Photo by Phearum/Xinhua)

Chinese artists perform during a joint cultural show to celebrate the 65th anniversary of the Cambodia-China diplomatic relations, in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, on Aug. 28, 2023. A joint cultural show was held here to celebrate the 65th anniversary of the Cambodia-China diplomatic relations, attracting thousands of spectators.

Held at the Diamond Island's Grand Theater on Monday night, the event was jointly performed by a troupe of Chinese artists from Southwest China's Yunnan Province and a team of Cambodian artists from the Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts. (Photo by Phearum/Xinhua)

Cambodian artists perform during a joint cultural show to celebrate the 65th anniversary of the Cambodia-China diplomatic relations, in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, on Aug. 28, 2023. A joint cultural show was held here to celebrate the 65th anniversary of the Cambodia-China diplomatic relations, attracting thousands of spectators.

Held at the Diamond Island's Grand Theater on Monday night, the event was jointly performed by a troupe of Chinese artists from Southwest China's Yunnan Province and a team of Cambodian artists from the Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts. (Photo by Phearum/Xinhua)
White House spokesperson Karine Jean-Pierre implied during a press briefing on Aug. 29 that the Kremlin was behind the death of Wagner Group's founder Yevgeny Prigozhin , but stopped short of saying so explicitly.

Responding to a question about whether Russian President Vladimir Putin is responsible for the plane crash that had killed Prigozhin and other top Wagner commanders last week, the spokesperson quoted U.S. President Joe Biden by saying that "not much happens in Russia that Putin is not behind."

"We all know that the Kremlin has a long history of killing its opponents," she noted, adding that Prigozhin's death is a result of Russia's internal dysfunction.

However, Jean-Pierre emphasized that the conclusions about the warlord's death are evident and provided no new official assessments on the matter.

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Russia's Investigative Committee officially confirmed that Prigozhin was among the 10 victims of the fatal private jet crash in Russia's Tver Oblast on Aug. 23. The warlord's funeral took place today on Aug. 29 without Putin's attendance.

Following mounting tensions between Prigozhin and Russia's Defense Ministry, the Wagner Group launched a short-lived rebellion against the Kremlin in June, taking the city of Rostov and marching toward Moscow before abruptly ending the insurrection less than 24 hours after it began.

Prigozhin was allowed to walk free following an undisclosed deal allegedly brokered by Belarusian dictator Alexander Lukashenko.

While the reasons for the crash of Prigozhin's aircraft remain unclear, U.S. officials named a bomb onboard or "some other form of sabotage" as a likely cause of the incident. Biden commented for CNN simply that the news of the oligarch's death is not surprising.

According to experts from the Institute for the Study of War, Wagner's boss was "almost certainly" assassinated by the Kremlin as the Russian authorities aimed to "weaken, subsume, and destroy the organization."

Read also: Russia confirms death of Wagner leaders Prigozhin and Utkin

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
Mark Meadows wants his criminal case moved to federal court, under an Obama-appointed judge.

A federal judge may be more sympathetic to arguments that he's immune from the case, experts say.

Trump is likely to try the same move  but will have an uphill climb.

This week Mark Meadows  ex-President Donald Trump 's former chief-of-staff  testified for four hours in federal court, pleading for a judge appointed by former President Barack Obama to take over his criminal case.

Trump himself is expected to make a similar move.

Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis originally brought criminal charges against Meadows, Trump, former Justice Department official Jeffrey Clark , and more than a dozen other political allies in Georgia state court earlier this month. In a sprawling RICO indictment, she accuses the group of participating in a racketeering enterprise that illegally pressured public officials to toss out now-President Joe Biden's Georgia victory during the 2020 election and keep Trump in power instead.

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Meadows, Clark, and several other defendants have asked to have their cases removed to federal court. If Meadows is successful, it could pave the way for Trump to maneuver his way into federal court  where he may get a more favorable jury and could get less scrutiny from the cameras as he runs in the 2024 presidential race.

"This is a powerfully significant procedure because the move to federal court for at least three of the defendants will throw a big harpoon into the sea of charges brought by the state," Ronald Carlson, a professor at the University of Georgia School of Law, told Insider. "If lightning strikes and Meadows wins, it'll assist his case in a compelling way."

Why is Meadows  and potentially Trump  so desperate to have a trial in federal court?

His lawyers may believe that a federal judge might be more willing than a state judge to consider legal arguments that would make him immune from the criminal charges, according to Mai Ratakonda, a senior counsel at States United Democracy Center.

"A federal court judge might be more sympathetic to some of their federal constitutional defenses that they might want to raise," Ratakonda told Insider. "So if they are planning to raise defenses involving, for example, executive immunity, they might be thinking that a federal judge might be more amenable to hearing them out on those."

Meadows is the first defendant to have a hearing over whether his case should be removed to federal court. If the case is moved, a federal judge would oversee the criminal case in federal court instead of state court, but the charges would stay the same and the district attorney's office would still prosecute the case. Both Trump and Meadows have denied wrongdoing.

US District Judge Steve C. Jones, the Obama-appointed judge who was randomly assigned to the case, scheduled a removal hearing for Clark on September 18. He set another hearing on September 20 for David Shafer and Cathleen Latham, two fake electors also under indictment.

At the Monday hearing, Meadows said all of his actions were within the scope of his role as Trump's chief of staff. In court filings, his lawyers have argued that he's shielded by the Supremacy Clause of the US Constitution, which protects federal employees against interference from state officials. Meadows's conduct, they argued, was within "his official duties and the federal policy underlying them."

"In order for the court to accept this case as a federal case, the defendants have to show that they were acting within their capacity as federal officers when they took the actions that underlie the indictment," Ratakonda said.

Trump may raise some of the same legal arguments

There are other benefits to removal. While Georgia's state courts are famed for their public access, often allowing live video cameras into courtrooms, federal courts are not. Any trial is sure to be covered closely by the media, but having it in a federal courtroom might minimize unsavory public images as Trump continues to run for the 2024 Republican presidential nomination.

A state court proceeding would also take in jurors from Fulton County, which voted overwhelmingly for Biden in 2020. A federal court trial would have a much wider jury pool, including from counties that voted for Trump in the election.

Even if Meadows successfully shows he was acting within his duties as a federal official and gets his case removed to federal court, it doesn't mean Jones will automatically accept his arguments that he was just doing his job. The legal standards for removal and executive immunity overlap, but differ in important ways.

Mark Meadows and Donald Trump at the White House. Sarah Silbiger/Getty Images

The indictment notes that Meadows spoke to Georgia officials and traveled to the state in order to observe the electoral process. But states  not the federal government  historically oversee the voting process, Norm Eisen, a political ethics lawyer, told Insider. Prosecutors argue he took those actions on behalf of Trump's political goals, not as part of his chief-of-staff job.

Trump and his legal team are likely paying close attention to Meadows's removal fight. Jones hasn't yet made a decision, and on Tuesday asked Meadows and prosecutors to file more legal briefings on the issue.

But Trump faces far more risk than Meadows in the case  and arguably more risk than he does in any of his three other indictments.

Prosecutors brought two charges against Meadows, accusing him of racketeering and soliciting Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger to break his oath and alter election results.

Trump faces 13 criminal counts. Prosecutors brought the same charges against him, plus additional ones for pressuring even more state officials to overturn election results, and for pushing a plot to appoint fake electors that would deny Biden his rightful victory.

"You would have to embrace the idea that an attempted coup is part of the official duties of a president or a chief of staff when they're clearly doing it as a failed campaign candidate, and in a political activity," Eisen said at a panel organized by the States United Democracy Center. "No court is going to swallow that."

Azmi Haroun contributed reporting.

Read the original article on Business Insider
For the third time in a year, the Bucks County judiciary has revived a plan to create a Central DUI Court that would force defendants to appear in Doylestown, rather than their local district court, for preliminary hearings.

The county judiciary is expected to submit its proposal to create a separate DUI court at the Bucks County Justice Center to the state judiciary oversight board for consideration next month.

Bucks County President Judge Wallace Bateman, who first floated the idea last year, maintains it would improve case efficiency and benefit court staff, police and defendants by providing a one-stop shopping approach to the cases.

Bucks County Justice Center in Doylestown

Pa high court derails Central DUI court Pennsylvania Supreme Court order upends Bucks County central DUI court plan

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The previous attempts at creating the new minority court were opposed by the Bucks County District Judges Association, which unanimously voted against supporting the current proposed plan on Aug. 21.

The association has argued a central court disenfranchises citizens, creates financial and travel hardships for the lower and upper ends of the county, where most DUI arrests occur, and may violate due process rights for defendants who want to fight charges.

The Pennsylvania State Supreme Court ultimately will decide if Bucks County gets to create the new permanent minority court for DUI cases or if local district courts will continue to be the first stop for defendants as cases move through the criminal justice system.

How would a Central DUI Court work in Bucks County?

Preliminary hearings for DUI cases would be scheduled once a month with morning and afternoon sessions and require two magisterial justices assigned to oversee cases for the day. Local district judges would serve rotating bench assignments in the central court.

Adult probation representatives would be available on-site on DUI court day, under the plan. Defendants also would be able to apply immediately for public defenders and meet with and schedule mandatory screening evaluations with treatment providers.

Defendants would be required to appear at the justice center; the exception is if a defendant has legal representation and waives their right to a preliminary hearing in writing beforehand. Arresting police officers would not be required to appear in court for the first listing, under the plan.

Incarcerated DUI defendants would be transported to the local district court where the case originated for their preliminary hearings, under the proposal, but other defendants may also have their hearings moved as well.

"The court has intended to send some cases back to the originating court for preliminary hearing; the only issue has been which cases," Bucks County Court Administrator Stephen Watson said in an email. "The court will amend the proposal in this regard as appropriate following a review of all the feedback received."

Bucks County revives DUI Court plan Charged with DUI in Bucks County? Why you may only be going to court in Doylestown

What are the arguments for a Central DUI Court?

Among the main arguments in favor of a central DUI court is it improves efficiency, accelerates case disposition, which ultimately saves money, and gets defendants into treatment quicker.

In his petition, Bateman wrote that last year the county had 1,700 DUI cases handled by 18 district courts with different workloads, which resulted in unpredictable scheduling of preliminary hearings.

DUI defendants who are first-time offenders are eligible for a special probation program for nonviolent offenders, but at the district court level, defendants can receive inconsistent information about their legal options.

This creates a bottleneck of defendants who are entirely unprepared when the cases move to the formal arraignment stage.

The result is continuance requests so defendants can find legal representation, apply or complete conditions necessary for the special probation program.

A central court would also save taxpayers money by reducing travel time and expenses for district attorneys, public defenders and police departments to travel to individual district courts, proponents say.

Since the justice center is centrally located and accessible through public transportation it is worst neutral in terms of hardships for defendants, private attorneys, witnesses, and victims, according to the petition.

While we recognize the impact on defendants who must travel to Doylestown for their first appearance rather than their local magisterial district court, it must be kept in mind that except for those cases that are dismissed at the preliminary hearing, all DUI cases will be required at least one appearance in Doylestown at the Justice Center, Bateman wrote.

Stock photo

More on Bucks ill fated DUI court Bucks County Courts abandon 'ill-advised' plan for closures, central DUI court. Here's the new proposal

Why Bucks County District Judges unanimously oppose a new DUI Central Court

In a statement, Bucks County District Judges Association President Lisa Gaier, a Quakertown district judge, disputed that a central court would save money and time. The group also claim it is unconstitutional.

The proposed plan would require magisterial judges to hear cases outside their elected jurisdiction on a regular basis, and restrict public access to courts, which violate the Pennsylvania Constitution and Rules of Criminal Procedure.

The association also disputes claims a central court will save tax dollars since it will require hiring additional court staff, and require police to travel further, costing more in overtime and leave communities with fewer officers for longer periods of time.

The financial hardship will be greatest on defendants, victims and witnesses because there is no convenient public transportation or easy way to get to Doylestown in the lower and upper ends of the county.

The Bateman petition noted the need to hire a central court coordinator, and did not address the financial impact on non-court participants for public transportation, gas and parking in Doylestown. Local district courts have free parking lots.

The district judges also argued that the proposal could be perceived as an attempt to force DUI defendants to waive their right to a preliminary hearing, a violation of their legal rights by creating a hardship since defendants who want a hearing would need to have a cast continued requiring a second trip to Doylestown.

Lower courts opposed central DUI court 'Unwarranted and ill-advised:' Bucks County judges warn against plan to close, consolidate and centralize district courts

Do other Pennsylvania counties have central DUI Courts?

At least 17 counties have these courts, the closest to Bucks is Lehigh County, which started its twice-monthly court in 2019, and served as the program Bucks County modeled its petition on. These courts were created before last year's state Supreme Court order, and they are not affected by it.

Lehigh County has seen significant reductions in delays for cases, according to the Bucks County proposal.

Defendants eligible for ARD are getting approved for the program within three months down from 10 months before the central court started and the time between the filing of a complaint and the entering of a plea dropped from 11 months to five months.

What happens next with the Bucks County DUI Court plan?

Common Pleas court is accepting public comments through Sept. 14. Written comments can be submitted via email to DUICentralCourtComments@buckscounty.org or via USPS mail to Office of the Court Administrator, Bucks County Justice Center, 100 N. Main St., 2nd Floor, Doylestown, PA 18901.

Following the comment period, the petition will be submitted to the Administrative Office of Pennsylvania Courts, which oversees the judiciary, which will review and make a recommendation to the states high court, which will make the decision. No timeline for a decision has been established.

This article originally appeared on Bucks County Courier Times: Bucks County has revived its Central DUI Court plan. Here's the details
In January 2022 several Neo-Nazi protests took shape across Florida, including one in Orlando, where protestors gave white power salutes while waving anti-Biden banners.

At the time, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis slow-walked condemning the protests until national leaders from both major political parties did so. And even when he did, he still insisted that being asked to condemn the condemnable was just a ploy by these Democrats who are trying to use this as some type of political issue to try to smear me as if I had something to do with that. The governor added, Were not playing their game.

This came just days after DeSantis then-press secretary (and current rapid response director for his presidential campaign) Christina Pushaw was criticized for a since-deleted tweet in which she said, Do we even know theyre Nazis? Or is this a stunt like the white nationalists who crashed the Youngkin rally in Charlottesville and turned out to be Dem staffers? I trust Florida law enforcement to investigate and am awaiting their conclusions.

Trumps Arrest Puts Spotlight on the Horrible Fulton County Jail

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But despite Pushaws claims, those neo-Nazis protestors were not crisis actors well-placed by Democrats to make DeSantis look bad. They were white supremacists that believed wholeheartedly in advancing white power, eradicating minorities, and stoking fear. They also believed that DeSantis was a supporter of their intentions, if not an overt force for white power ideology, considering his legislative record in Florida.

And DeSantis essentially had to be shamed into denouncing them.

Its now August 2023 and this past weekend a white gunman killed three Black people in an apparent white supremacist attack at a Jacksonville Dollar General store. (The gunman had been turned away by campus security as he attempted to enter a local HBCU campus moments earlier.)

The 21-year-old gunman had no criminal history and legally obtained the guns he used to kill three innocent victims. Before his rampage, he reportedly sent manifestos to his parents, local police, and news media outlining his hatred for ni****s and why he wanted to target them. The gunman also adorned his rifle with a swastika, perhaps the most commonly recognized symbol of hate and white power, the literal brand marker of the German Nazi Party.

On Monday DeSantis attended the vigil for the three victims of the hate crime and was roundly booed and told youre not welcome here. His anti-Black policies lend themselves to that treatment.

Democrats Really Need to Win Back Young White Male Voters From the GOP

In early 2021, DeSantis signed a law allowing drivers to hit protestors with their cars, without criminal penalty. This law was created to quell protests like the Black Lives Matter events sparked by the murder of George Floyd.

This year, DeSantis banned an African American studies course and rejected AP courses in African American history. If that wasnt enough, Floridas chief executive argued Blacks benefited from slavery. DeSantis is leading book bans and signed a bill to defund DEI, which also limits how race and gender can be taught, defunds college DEI programs and offices, and sent a chilling effect across the state.

And while DeSantis eventually got around to calling the neo-Nazis protesting in Florida in 2022 some jackasses doing this on the street, his wishy-washiness has given them cover. After a July 2022 Turning Point USA (TPUSA) gathering in Tampa, DeSantis again did not take the opportunity to unequivocally name, shame, and denounce the demonstrators outside of the convention center displaying flags that read DeSantis Country alongside the infamous Nazi symbol.

Then-gubernatorial candidate and current Florida Democratic Party Chair, Nikki Fried, said at the time, We may disagree on policies, but if we as leaders dont denounce neo-Nazis and white supremacists in our state, in our country, what are we doing here? Fried added, I am asking you, Ron DeSantis, to denounce the Nazis that were here, here to celebrate your speech inside this convention center. They were holding your pictures yesterday.

The Right Needs to Ask: Why Do These Racists Keep Getting Hired by Us?

Why wouldnt racists support DeSantis? Hes normalized de facto and de jure racism in Florida policy, and expresses frightening indifference to the most odious racists among his base. Who could be surprised that, in 2023 Florida, a swastika-wearing mass murderer wouldnt hunt Black people for sport?

Anyone acting shocked over this outcome is ignorant of Americas story, ignorant of Black Americas persistent fight to exist, and ignorant of the vigilance of white supremacywhich seems to always find a conservative leader to further its cause.

As long as Republicans like DeSantisa contender for the White House and one of the most prominent members of his partycoddle white supremacists, Black lives are in grave danger.

Read more at The Daily Beast.

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U.S. District Court Judge Tanya Chutkan has set former President Trumps trial for his alleged efforts to overturn the 2020 election results for March 4, one day before Super Tuesday in the 2024 Republican primary.

Special counsel Jack Smiths team requested a Jan. 2 trial date, and Trumps team asked for a April 2026 trial date.

The date sets up a collision between the Republican frontrunners legal woes and one of the most consequential days on the political calendar.

What is Super Tuesday?

Super Tuesday is slated to take place March 5, 2024.

The day is considered one of the biggest in the election cycle, with voters heading to the polls in over a dozen states and territories including Alaska, Alabama, Arkansas, American Samoa, California, Colorado, Massachusetts, Maine, Minnesota, North Carolina, Oklahoma, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont and Virginia.

Why is it important?

While Super Tuesday falls behind some of the critical early primary and caucus states, there is still a lot up for grabs on the contest day.

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One-third of all delegates can be won on Super Tuesday, more than any other day on the primary calendar. Candidates and voters could have a good idea of who the partys eventual nominee is after Super Tuesday due to the large number of delegates at stake.

Though Iowa, New Hampshire, South Carolina and Nevada are currently top priorities for the GOP contenders, the candidates have also made visits to Super Tuesday states, underscoring their importance. Many of the candidates have traveled to Texas to visit the southern border, while Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis (R) has made trips to Oklahoma, Alabama and Tennessee.

Many of the the GOP contenders have also spoken at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in Simi Valley, Calif., which is also the site of the next Republican president debate.

What does Trumps trial date mean for Super Tuesday?

By the time Super Tuesday rolls around in 2024, primary voters will have already chosen their candidates in several key states. However, there might not be a clear indication of who the Republican nominee is until potentially after Super Tuesday. This means that Trumps trial date could have an impact on the multi-state contest after it kicks off March 4.

Trumps allies claim that the four indictments against him have only boosted his presidential campaign, pointing to the fundraising boosts the campaign has seen in recent months. Trumps campaign brought in a whopping $35 million in the second quarter, which came after Trump pleaded not guilty in two different criminal cases. And this week, Trumps campaign reported raising $7.1 million off of his mug shot in the Georgia case into his efforts to overturn the presidential election in that state.

The enthusiastic support for Trump amid his legal troubles coupled with his double-digit lead in most state and national-level polling suggests that the trial start has the potential to galvanize the GOP base in a number of early primary states.

However, some Republicans say Trumps legal troubles could still come back to bite him in the primary. The super PAC backing former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie used Trumps mug shot in an ad this week, asking voters if they are Tired of the drama, the distractions, the lies?

Additionally, an ABC News/Ipsos poll released earlier this month found no bump for Trump among Republicans; 20 percent of Republican voters said Trump should suspend his campaign, while 14 percent said he should have been charged in the federal Jan. 6 case.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
A 37-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of multiple crimes Friday afternoon, following a standoff with police and Thurston County SWAT in downtown Olympia.

The man, who was wanted for a shooting incident earlier in the month, was located about 3:30 p.m. in an apartment on the seventh floor of a building known as the 123-4th apartments at Fourth Avenue and Columbia Street.

A woman answered the door. Olympia detectives could see the man in the unit, although he refused to come out, said Lt. Paul Lower.

The scene was then turned over to Thurston County SWAT officials who negotiated with the man for about three hours before he was taken into custody, Lower said.

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Detectives responded to the apartment building because of an investigation that started on Aug. 2.

About 5 a.m. on that date, police were dispatched to a report of shots fired in an apartment building in the 600 block of Capitol Way South. An altercation in a hallway was followed by multiple shots being fired. No one was hurt, but police did find three bullets in a hallway, Lower said.

The 37-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of first-degree assault, first-degree unlawful possession of a firearm and resisting arrest. The 30-year-old woman at the apartment also was arrested on suspicion of rendering criminal assistance because she denied that the man was in the unit, Lower said.

Shots fired in Capitol Way apartment building, suspect still on the loose
The National Weather Service issued a red flag warning Tuesday as portions of the Sacramento Valley brace for critical fire weather conditions.

According to the weather service, a red flag warning is issued when fire conditions have either entered the area or are expected soon. The areas first warning of the year will go into effect from 11 p.m. Tuesday to 8 p.m. Wednesday for fire zones that cover most of the Sacramento Valley.

The advisory extends to the following counties, according to the weather service:

Sacramento

Yuba

Sutter

Butte

Colusa

Glenn

Tehama

Portions of Shasta, mainly Redding

The mix of gusty wind, low humidity and high temperatures could cause a wildfire to grow quickly in both size and strength.

RED FLAG WARNING has been issued for the parts of the Sac Valley.



11 PM Today - 8 PM Wednesday.



Breezy northerly winds + low humidity will lead to critical fire weather conditions in the warning area.



This is NWS Sacramento's first Red Flag Warning of 2023. #CAwx #CAfire pic.twitter.com/VIqVsmwsaU  NWS Sacramento (@NWSSacramento) August 29, 2023

The highest threat will be on the western portion of the Sacramento Valley, along Interstate 5, according to the weather service. Winds are expected to whip between 15 and 25 mph, with gusts from 30 to 35 mph.

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In the capital region, maximum temperatures are forecast to range from the mid 90s to high 90s through Thursday, according to the weather service. The area could see haze and smoke early Wednesday morning, coupled with winds from 6 to 11 mph.

Conditions are expected to clear up ahead of Labor Day weekend with mostly sunny skies and temperatures between the high 70s and high 80s.

Whats the air quality in the Sacramento region?

According to an air quality forecast from Spare the Air, winds will push smoke from wildfires in the far northwest corner of California and southern Oregon into the Sacramento region starting Tuesday.

The result: Polluted air.

The forecast for Tuesday has air quality at 87 AQI, according to Spare the Air. Wednesdays forecast is to be 100 AQI.

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, AQI readings between 51 and 100 are considered acceptable but conditions could affect those extremely sensitive to ozone.

PG&E power shutoffs are likely

Due to the high wildfire risk, Pacific Gas and Electric Co. said public safety power shutoffs were likely to occur in portions of seven Northern California counties.

The shutoff could begin around 3 a.m. Wednesday and affect about 8,000 homes and businesses, the utility company said in a news release.

Customers in parts of the following counties may lose power:

Colusa

Glenn

Lake

Napa

Shasta

Tehama

Yolo

The largest potential shutoffs were set for Shasta and Tehama counties.

What do you want to know about life in Sacramento? Ask our service journalism team your top-of-mind questions in the module below or email servicejournalists@sacbee.com.
One of the largest wildfires in Louisiana history is continuing to spread and threaten rural communities.

The Tiger Island Fire, which started about five miles east of the Texas state line, doubled in size over the weekend, growing to more than 33,000 acres  accounting for more acres of burned land than the state usually has in an entire year. It was 50% contained on Tuesday.

This is not done. We expect a dry September. So we got to be prepared for this and all work together until the rain comes ... and then we can get back to life," said Mike Strain, the commissioner for Louisianas Department of Agriculture and Forestry.

He joined Louisiana Gov. John Bel Edwards on an aerial tour of the fire Tuesday. The wildfire had already forced the entire town of Merryville  a rural area with a population of 1,200 people  to evacuate. No injuries or deaths have been reported, but at least 20 structures, including barns and homes, have been damaged or destroyed.

The Tiger Island Fire in Louisiana has burned more than 30,000 acres.

The wildfire is one of several burning in the state right now. There have been about 600 wildfires across the state in August alone and more are expected.

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"Nobody alive in Louisiana has ever seen these conditions," Edwards said over the weekend.

Tiger Island Fire

The Tiger Island Fire was first reported on August 22 and spread rapidly, fed by abundant pine plantation forests. Residual trees felled by Hurricane Laura in 2020 lined the forests, providing additional fuel.

Warm and dry weather returned Tuesday after the eastern edge of the fire received rain during the day Monday. Fuel remained critically dry and, combined with gusty winds, has the potential to produce extreme fire behavior, officials said.

The Tiger Island Fire in Louisiana has burned more than 30,000 acres.

"This is a long duration event," Edwards said. "There's simply no excuse to be burning anything outside in Louisiana."

Many blazes could have been prevented if residents had adhered to a statewide burn ban that has been in effect since early August, officials said. Edwards said Louisiana Fire Marshal agents issued 20 citations for violating the ban even as the state's forests go up in smoke and homes, livestock and livelihoods are threatened.

Who's fighting the fires?

Although the Tiger Island Fire is the state's largest, Louisiana has suffered 600 wildfires this month alone aided by drought and record-breaking heat that have burned 60,000 acres. "That's close to the amount of what we usually see in a year," Edwards said.

Neighboring states and federal agencies have responded to the crisis with governors from Alabama, Georgia, Oklahoma and Texas sending help and the Louisiana National Guard deployed.

"I have authorized the (Alabama National Guard) to deploy two black hawks and a chinook to assist Louisiana in combatting the devastating wildfires," Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey tweeted Monday. "Our prayers are with all affected and the emergency responders. Alabama stands ready in this time of crisis to help win this fight."

More than 1,000 emergency responders from throughout the South are engaged in fighting the Louisiana wildfires, Edwards said Tuesday.

"We've committed every asset we have," Strain said Tuesday.

More: 'Louisiana has never seen a summer like this' as 9 more die from heat-related illness

Contributing: Associated Press

Greg Hilburn covers state politics for the USA TODAY Network of Louisiana. Follow him @GregHilburn1

This article originally appeared on Monroe News-Star: Louisiana wildfire continues to tear through map of Tiger Island town
Wisconsin Republicans are moving to fire the state's nonpartisan elections director ahead of the upcoming presidential primary in the state, casting a shadow of uncertainty over 2024 elections.

The state Senate is set to hold a hearing Tuesday on Meagan Wolfe, the administrator of the Wisconsin Elections Commission, the first step in what is likely an attempt to remove her from her position. Democrats say Republicans want to drive Wolfe out of office as retribution for decisions the commission made in 2020.

The brawl over Wolfe illustrates how, nearly three years after then-President Donald Trump s false claims of a stolen election in 2020, election misinformation still has a grip on arguably the most important swing state on the map  with Trump potentially on the ticket again.

I think that it's largely out of a desire to find an explanation for Donald Trump's loss other than fewer people voted for him than Joe Biden, Ann S. Jacobs, one of the Democratic commissioners on the WEC, said of the machinations to remove Wolfe. She is the chief elections officer, she offers a face to the conspiracy theories.

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The margin between Biden and Trump in Wisconsin in 2020 was extremely narrow, and Republicans have fixated on a handful of decisions the bipartisan, six-member WEC board of commissioners approved, including how absentee voting was handled in nursing homes during the pandemic.

Heightening the discord is state House leaders tapping former state Supreme Court Justice Michael Gableman as a special counsel to review the election in the summer of 2021. Gableman embraced fringe conspiracy theories and targeted state and local election officials. He lambasted grants from a nonprofit funded by Facebook chief Mark Zuckerberg that went to election offices across the state. Beyond that, he mocked Wolfe on personal terms by deriding her physical appearance.



Gableman was dismissed a bit over a year later after he turned on Wisconsin Assembly Speaker Robin Vos, arguably the most powerful Republican in the state, with Vos saying Gableman went off the rails.

But some of the underlying attacks against Wolfe stuck.

Its clear that enough legislators have fallen prey to false information about my work and the work of this agency that my role here is at risk, Wolfe wrote in a letter to Wisconsin clerks in June.

Wolfe said during a commission meeting earlier this month to discuss appearing in front of the state Senate that she's in a really difficult spot. ... I feel like I am being put in an absolutely impossible, untenable spot either way. Wolfe said in a statement last week that she would not appear at Tuesdays hearing.

A WEC spokesperson declined to make Wolfe available for an interview. But her supporters say she is unfairly being targeted for pandemic-era decisions that only became an issue for Republicans after Trump lost.

Wolfe was merely implementing bipartisan votes from the commission itself, said Democratic state Sen. Mark Spreitzer, who serves on the Senate election committee. Even if you disagree with the Commission's decisions, I don't think it's fair to take it out on Meagan.

Sen. Dan Knodl, who chairs the committee holding the hearing on Tuesday, declined an interview request through a spokesperson.

Wolfe, who is widely respected among her peers working on running elections, has the support of election officials in both parties from Wisconsin. Election clerks are expected to speak in support of her on Tuesday, and bipartisan WEC commissioners have said Wolfe should remain in her role.

Shes qualified, shes carried out the dictates of the commission, and frankly I dont think that we will find anyone else who would take the job who would be qualified, said WEC Chair Don Millis, a Republican appointed to the commission by Vos. Its a very difficult position, shes under fire. I feel sorry for her for all the things she has to go through.

But the fight over Wolfes service as the states chief election official seems headed to the courts  with Democrats in the state arguing that legislative Republicans dont have the authority to take a vote to expel her.

That's because Wolfe was never officially renominated for the role in the first place. Democratic WEC commissioners strategically abstained from a vote doing so because they feared Republicans in the state Senate would vote to remove her if her nomination came before the full chamber.

Millis, the GOP chair of the commission, said that while he supports Wolfe, he believed Democrats on the commission were making a grave mistake by not officially voting to approve her nomination  which could exacerbate the fight around her role. I think the members of the Senate felt it was an insult, he said.

In a letter to the state Senate last week, Democratic Attorney General Joshua Kaul argued that the Senate had no right to vote on Wolfes appointment.

This is not a close question under state law, he wrote, arguing that the commission had not officially nominated her to serve another term. As long as Wolfe is a holdover appointee, he continued, she can remain in the job.

Wolfe may legally remain in office following the expiration of her term, Kaul argued  citing a recent state Supreme Court decision where a Republican appointee was allowed to stay in office following the expiration of his term to a state board.

Should Senate Republicans continue to push ahead with Wolfe's vote, Spreitzer, the Democratic state senator, said this will almost assuredly head to the courts.

If Republicans take it that far and take that vote  we end up in court, he said. And who sues who first, I have no idea.
Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah al-Sisi (R) shakes hands with visiting Chairman of Sudan's Sovereign Council Abdel Fattah Al-Burhan, also the general commander of the Sudanese Armed Forces, in New Alamein, Egypt, Aug. 29, 2023. Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah al-Sisi and visiting Chairman of Sudan's Sovereign Council Abdel Fattah Al-Burhan on Tuesday discussed bilateral ties and the latest developments in the Sudanese crisis. (Egyptian Presidency/Handout via Xinhua)

CAIRO, Aug. 29 (Xinhua) -- Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah al-Sisi and visiting Chairman of Sudan's Sovereign Council Abdel Fattah Al-Burhan on Tuesday discussed bilateral ties and the latest developments in the Sudanese crisis.

An Egyptian presidential spokesman said in a statement that during the meeting at the coastal city of New Alamein, Sisi attached great importance to the historical bonds and deep relations between his country and Sudan at the official and popular levels.

Sisi also stressed Egypt's firm position to stand by Sudan and support its security, stability, unity and territorial integrity, especially during the current critical circumstances, according to the statement.

For his part, Al-Burhan, also the general commander of the Sudanese Armed Forces, thanked Egypt for supporting the safety and stability of Sudan at a "historical juncture it is going through," especially hosting Sudanese citizens.

During the meeting, the two leaders also reviewed developments in Sudan and touched on ways to ensure humanitarian aid to the Sudanese people and efforts to settle the Sudanese crisis.

They also followed up on the mechanism to solve the crisis proposed at a meeting among its neighboring countries, which was held in mid-July in the Egyptian capital of Cairo.

Al-Burhan arrived in New Alamein on Tuesday, his first trip since the clashes broke out between the Sudanese army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in mid-April.

Since April 15, deadly armed clashes between the army and the RSF in Khartoum and other areas have killed over 3,000 people and injured more than 6,000, according to the Sudanese Health Ministry.

More than 4 million people have fled their homes, with 3.2 million displaced internally and close to 900,000 seeking refuge in countries including Chad, Egypt, and South Sudan, according to the latest UN estimates. 

Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah al-Sisi (R) meets with visiting Chairman of Sudan's Sovereign Council Abdel Fattah Al-Burhan, also the general commander of the Sudanese Armed Forces, in New Alamein, Egypt, Aug. 29, 2023. Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah al-Sisi and visiting Chairman of Sudan's Sovereign Council Abdel Fattah Al-Burhan on Tuesday discussed bilateral ties and the latest developments in the Sudanese crisis. (Egyptian Presidency/Handout via Xinhua)
WORCESTER  City officials and social activist groups are still reeling from the gun violence that turned a well-attended and well-run festival into a chaotic crime scene early Sunday evening, with two people described as "innocent bystanders" hit by stray bullets.

Around 6 p.m. Sunday, gunfire erupted between two men on Boynton Street, at Salisbury Street. The ringing shots caused a chaotic scene in and around the Worcester Caribbean American Carnival with people running for cover, according to police.

As a result, police shut down the carnival about a half-hour early. Two shooting victims, ages 15 and 23, were identified near Institute Park.

Tuesday, Worcester police Lt. Sean Murtha said there had been no arrests made yet in connection with the double shooting, which happened near a Worcester Polytechnic Institute fraternity house. He said the investigation remains active.

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More No movement on Beacon Hill as gun violence flares again

The two victims were not connected with the dispute that resulted in gunfire erupting, Murtha said. They suffered non-life-threatening injuries, he said, and both are expected to make a full recovery.

People fire their gun in a crowded city, especially at an event that has thousands of people here, occasionally they strike things they dont mean to, Murtha said Sunday night. And, unfortunately, two people not involved got shot.

'No place for violence'

In a statement Tuesday, City Manager Eric D. Batista said what happened Sunday is a disgrace.

There is no place for violence of any kind in our community. Worcester is a city where everyone should feel secure, respected and be able to live a life free from violence, Batista said. My thoughts and concerns are with the victims and their families and everyone who had to stand witness to such senseless violence.

Batista said the city supports cultural and ethnic diversity, and pledged that the Worcester Caribbean American Carnival will continue to be celebrated in the city.

Worcester has a history of creating safe spaces for people to celebrate their cultural traditions and that will not change, Batista said. Right now, we must focus on helping all those who experienced trauma Sunday heal.

Batista said the city, through its Youth Violence Prevention Initiative, as well as the Governance Council for Children, Youth and Families, is working on prevention and intervention of youth violence.

City Councilor-at-Large Kathleen M. Toomey, who also chairs the councils public safety committee, called Sundays double shooting a tragic incident that shouldnt tarnish the festival.

Officers clear out Institute Park, where the Worcester Caribbean American Carnival took place Sunday, after a shooting nearby.

It was a random incident and, I think, people have to remember that, that it really wasnt connected to that event. We have to take a step back and remember in an urban center we're going to have issues like that, Toomey said. Were going to do everything we can to try to prevent it in the future. We have to continue to be vigilant. We have to continue our efforts and identifying these individuals that are carrying illegal weapons.

The violence is getting out of hand, she continued. We continue to try to make sure we get guns off the street. And, I have to say our police department is doing a very good job, but illegal guns are prolific and people are getting them. We can have the strictest gun laws in the country, which Massachusetts does, but its not stemming illegal guns.

Reaction from NAACP, Lawyers for Civil Rights

In a statement released Monday, Fred Taylor, president of the Worcester branch of the NAACP, said Worcester needs to address that there is a gun problem in the city and work to solve it.

Fred Taylor, president of the Worcester branch of the NAACP, said he was at the Caribbean festival when it was interrupted by gunfire.

Yesterday (Sunday) was supposed to be a celebration of Caribbean culture with food and fun, but instead, it abruptly ended our summers and traumatized our youth and families, Taylor said. While speaking with an NAACP member and his daughter we were interrupted by gun fire just 50 feet away. Why do we, why does our community, always need to duck and dodge gunfire? This senseless violence, which led to two youth being shot, put the lives of all of us attending in danger. By the grace of God, no one was killed yesterday (Sunday). We are all lucky.

Tuesday, the Boston-based Lawyers For Civil Rights sent out letters to the mayors of Worcester, Boston and Springfield urging them to prioritize public safety issues in the wake of back-to-back shootings over the weekend at Caribbean cultural festivals in Worcester and Boston.

The organization urged Worcester Mayor Joseph M. Petty and the Worcester Police Department to redouble community trust-building efforts to stem the tide of gun violence.

The consequences of this bloodshed are impossible to overstate, the letter states. People are being hurt, families are being destroyed, and Worcester residents are being forced to live in fear. Thats why its more important than ever for elected officials and law enforcement personnel to do all they can to build trust between police and the people they serve, especially the communities of color disproportionately harmed by gun violence.

The police department is asking anyone with information about Sundays double shooting to send an anonymous text to 274637 TIPWPD or call the Worcester Police Detective Bureau at (508) 799-8651.

This article originally appeared on Telegram & Gazette: Calls for action follow Worcester Caribbean festival shooting
How can scientists in a laboratory setting simulate the immense gravitational forces of a submarine-launched ballistic missile in flight?

Try mounting a payload at the end of a centrifuge arm more than 50 feet long  then spinning it around so fast inside a circle-shaped building that it generates more than 25 times the force of Earth's gravity, described Stephen Rusinko, Draper director of operations and production.

Draper, which designs guidance systems for U.S. Navy missiles, is building one of the world's largest centrifuge facilities in Titusville.

Tuesday morning, roughly 90 people gathered for a groundbreaking ceremony for the roughly $50 million future Strategic Enhanced Ground Test Facility. Draper CEO Jerry Wohletz said the centrifuge campus will employ 150 highly skilled workers.

This artist's rendering depicts Draper's future facility in Titusville. The rounded portion of the building will contain the centrifuge.

The 36,000-square-foot facility should open in 2026, Rusinko said.

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As the Navys strategic guidance prime contractor, Draper has designed and supported the guidance system for every fleet ballistic missile deployed since the program began in 1955, a company press release said.

Scientific research conducted in Titusville should save the nation hundreds of millions of dollars in flight-testing costs, said Robert Bacon, Draper vice president of Navy strategic systems.

More: Retired Space Force Col. Robert Long selected to become president and CEO of Space Florida

In late June, the Charles Stark Draper Laboratory of Cambridge, Massachusetts, bought 5.3 acres of land for the future facility for $2.2 million. Located near the American Police Hall of Fame and Museum, this site near the intersection of U.S. 1 and State Road 405 lies just shy of the NASA Causeway, which leads toward the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex.

A site plan displayed during Tuesday's event depicted an elevated platform with a loading monorail that leads to the centrifuge, which will be flanked by a pair of control rooms.

Draper will build its facility near the southeastern intersection of U.S. 1 and State Road 405 in Titusville.

"We have this exquisite instrumentation that needs to be able to operate under high Gs and maintain its precision. So as our missiles and rockets launch, they go under extreme G-forces," Wohletz said, minutes before walking outside to pose for photos holding a gold-painted shovel.

Wohletz said the Titusville centrifuge will replace Draper's aging unit in Bedford, Massachusetts. Once built, he said it will join Sandia National Laboratories in New Mexico as America's premier national-defense centrifuges.

Draper operates Florida campuses in Cape Canaveral and St. Petersburg, and the Titusville location will be the company's 10th nationwide. The company also is a partner in Blue Origin's $3.4 billion NASA contract to develop a lunar lander system to carry Artemis astronauts to the moon's surface.

More: 'We are opening space': Space Perspective's Titusville space-balloon factory dedicated

Christyl Johnson, NASA Goddard deputy director for technology and research investment, said her agency will partner with Draper.

"Goddard Space Flight Center has a centrifuge  but that centrifuge is being sunsetted. And so, we are beyond excited to have this facility come up and come on board," Johnson told the audience.

A Trident II D-5 ballistic missile launches from the Ohio-class ballistic missile submarine USS West Virginia in the Atlantic Ocean during a missile test.

North American Properties, which plans to develop surrounding acreage near NASA Causeway, sold the parcel to Draper. Now, NAP will serve as the project developer by designing and building the facility, said Shawn McIntyre, managing partner.

NAP built the six-story, 245-unit Luna apartment complex next to The Avenue Viera, which opened to tenants in March. Next, McIntyre said he hopes to break ground in the third quarter of 2024 on a large-scale apartment complex in downtown Melbourne at the site of the former Orange Court Apartments.

Afterward, McIntyre said his company will pursue construction of Nova, a seven-story 226-unit apartment complex near Luna in Viera.

Rick Neale is the South Brevard Watchdog Reporter at FLORIDA TODAY (for more of his stories, click here.) Contact Neale at 321-242-3638 or rneale@floridatoday.com. Twitter/X: @RickNeale1

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This article originally appeared on Florida Today: 'World-class centrifuge': Draper building Navy missile test facility
Steve Harvey is running back the story of how he met his current wife Marjorie Harvey amid speculations of infidelity.

The couple has been married for 16 years, and shares a blended family of seven adult children. Steve shares twins Karli and Brandi and son Broderick with his first wife, Marcia Harvey, and son Wynton with his second wife, Mary Shackleford.

Steve Harvey again shares the story of how he met his wife Marjorie Harvey, but fans arent buying it. (Photo: Marjorie_harvey/Instagram.)

Marjorie shares daughter Morgan and son Jason with her first husband, Jim Townsend, and daughter Lori with her second husband, Darnell Woods.

Steve claims his first time meeting Marjorie was in 1986, when she walked into a comedy club where he was on stage performing in Memphis, Tennessee. At the time, he was married to Marcia. They divorced in 1994.

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Shes the most beautiful girl Id ever seen, he recollected about his now-wife during the filming of an episode of Family Feud. He claimed they dated for a year-and-a-half before the romance fizzled out.

Marjorie went on to marry Townsend, a known drug lord in Tennessee who would spend years in jail. They parted ways in 1997. She would later marry Woods, who also was convicted of drug-related charges, leading to the demise of their union in 2002.

The comedian said he reconnected with Marjorie in 2005, after he divorced Shackleford. The first thing he recalled asking her was, Hows your punk a husband doing? referring to Townsend.

RELATED: Marjories Ex-Husband Says Steve Harvey Called Him a Punk A, Claims He and Marjorie Spoke Three Days Before She Married the Comedian

The alleged drug kingpin previously has accused the entertainer of disparaging him to his son Jason. This past spring, the pardoned felon began promoting his tell-all book that promises to share with readers who Marjorie really is and the alleged role she played in his drug operation.

In the resurfaced clip, Steve said it took him three months to win over Marjorie, but they have been together ever since. The timing of the resurfaced clips has fans questioning if rumors of Marjories alleged infidelity with a bodyguard and a chef as well as talks of a looming divorce are rooted in truth.

CLICK HERE TO READ MORE.

I aint buying all that. All of a sudden you posting this story? Yeah something is definitely wrong, wrote one fan.

Is it the same bodyguard who allegedly been in bed with her, asked another.

This becoming sus, what are you cooking Harvey and Lol you cant fool us, wrote others.

Both Steve and his wife have already hit back at the speculation surrounding their marriage, but it seems fans have yet to believe all is well in their household.
The record numbers of bison in Yellowstone National Park threaten the recovery of the parks iconic quaking aspen, which scientists had hoped was on the mend, a study has found.

The findings, published Tuesday in Ecology and Evolution, reveal a complex drama between plants, predators and prey in the oldest U.S. park  and one of the earliest and most intensive sites of U.S. federal intervention in a complex ecological landscape.

At the center of that story is the surprising  and now interrupted  recovery of the aspen.

The aspen is a keystone Western tree species known for its vivid fall foliage and its smooth white bark, which is puckered by black scars where the trees have dropped branches they no longer need.

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That white bark is a botanical wonder because, unlike the bark of most trees, it can carry out photosynthesis, allowing the aspen to make its own food even in winter, long after those brightly colored leaves have turned brown and fallen.

That special quality has helped aspen achieve its current wide geographic range.

But unfortunately for the tree, that bark  and the tender trunks of young aspen  are also attractive to the parks resurgent northern bison herd.

Researchers found that the enormous, shaggy herbivores were rubbing the bark off of young aspen saplings, killing them.

Perhaps more frustrating for landscape managers was the bisons habit of simply knocking young aspen trees over.

In the nearly 90 aspen stands researchers surveyed, they found that almost 20 percent of saplings had been broken by bison.

The researchers, from Oregon State University (OSU), concluded that bison were now hindering the recovery of the tree species, which had previously been driven into decline by another large herbivore  Yellowstones ubiquitous elk.

For the Yellowstone elk, the 20th century was a golden age. It was a period when humans had suppressed or eradicated their main predators  wolves, bears and cougars.

This allowed the elk herd to grow to unusual size, which was particularly bad news for aspen, a species that reproduces largely through sending up identical clones from a giant shared root system.

While saplings are shooting up through the soil, they are vulnerable  and, to elk, delicious.

In one region, the aspen canopy in 2015 had fallen to 1 percent of its extent in 1954, another OSU study found.

Previous work by the lead author of that study, Luke Painter, built on findings that the reintroduction of wolves to Yellowstone National Park in 1995 reshaped the ecosystem.

The growing numbers of wolves both cut down the population of elk in the park by nearly two-thirds  and changed their behavior in key ways.

With the cooperative carnivores patrolling the forests, the elk were no longer able to camp out above the new aspen growth, eating all the new, tender saplings.

Instead, the surviving herds began to spend the winter outside the park, where wolves were suppressed  allowing saplings time to grow to maturity.

Some young aspen began growing into saplings  young trees taller than 2 meters  which was an indication they were no longer being consumed by elk and were likely to grow into mature trees, Painter said.

With fewer elk, the aspen could recover, Painter concluded in that earlier paper.

Restoring aspen in northern Yellowstone has been a goal of the National Park Service for decades, he wrote.

Now theyve begun to achieve that passively, by having the animals do it for them. Its a restoration success story.

Except, the Ecology and Evolution study found, it wasnt.

Because as elk declined, bigger and more formidable herbivores filled the space they had left behind: the American bison, which federal managers had helped save from local extinction through one of the nations earliest conservation breeding programs in the 1920s.

With wolves targeting the elk, bison populations in Yellowstone have quadrupled since the 1990s  climbing to nearly 4,000. (While Yellowstone wolf packs target bison too  generally going after females or calves  they generally prefer easier prey. In this video, bison cooperate to save a calf from wolves.)

Like bison everywhere, the resurgent herd in the park reshaped the landscape around them. As they trundled along creek sides, they compressed the banks, changing the way streams flow.

They trampled vegetation, creating new paths; rubbed their horns on trees; and punctured the soil with their hooves, aiding the growth of new trees.

And, as the Ecology and Evolution findings showed, bison bulls simply broke the recovering aspen saplings, in what researchers conjectured was a macho show of aggression toward their rivals.

In a heartbreaking detail for aspen lovers, these shaggy showboaters tended to vent their anger on saplings that  with a height of more than 12 feet  could have survived the depredations of elk and other herbivores.

Concentration of bison on the Yellowstone landscape might have been relieved in other cases, as bison, left to their own devices, wander out of the park and into the surrounding countryside.

But since the late 1990s, a deal between the federal government and Montana  pushed by the states powerful ranching industry  has required Yellowstone officials to kill, capture or scare back into the park any bison that roam free.

This has bottled the bison up in the park, concentrating their ecological effects, Painter noted.

While the recovery of the bison was a great conservation success, one important conservation goal is affecting another important conservation goal, he added.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
New York City issued new guidance Tuesday allowing mosques (masjids) to broadcast the Muslim call to prayer on Fridays between 12:30 p.m. and 1:30 p.m. without obtaining a permit and despite sound restrictions in city neighborhoods.

According to the city, the guidance also allows the call to prayer to be broadcast in the evenings during Ramadan, a month-long period of fasting and prayer for the Muslim community.

Today we are cutting red tape and saying clearly if you are a mosque or house of worship of any kind, you do not have to apply for a permit to amplify your call to Friday prayer. You are free to live your faith in NYC, Mayor Eric Adams said while announcing the new guidance Tuesday.

The call to prayer is the Adhan, also spelled Azan, which is usually broadcast publicly over speakers or a public address system in a house of worship that summons members of the Muslim faith for prayer, a news release from the city said.

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The new initiative, launched by the NYPD, clarifies the call to prayer is allowed in New York City and not prohibited despite sound restrictions in city neighborhoods, the release said.

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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has dismissed Yevhen Borzilov, Head of the Security Service of Ukraine (SSU) in Zakarpattia Oblast, who had been heading the agency since July 2022.

Source: decree on the president's website; local media outlet mukachevo.net

Quote: "Yevhen Viktorovych Borzilov shall be dismissed from the post of the head of the SSU Office in Zakarpattia Oblast."

Details: As the local media outlet stated, prior to his appointment in Zakarpattia, Borzilov worked as the head of the SSU office in Poltava Oblast in 2019. Previously, he was the deputy head of the Counterintelligence Protection of Interests Department of the SSU.

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Background:

On 28 August, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy reshuffled the staff of the SSU, appointing the deputy head of the Service and the head of the SSU branch in Zaporizhzhia Oblast.

Ukrainska Pravda is the place where you will find the most up-to-date information about everything related to the war in Ukraine. Follow us on Twitter, support us, or become our patron!






On the Day of Remembrance of Defenders (29 August),Volodymyr Zelenskyy, President of Ukraine, called on every official to feel that Ukraine stands behind their backs. He also urged them to bring the victory of Ukraine closer.

Source: Zelenskyys evening address

Quote: "Everything that makes our state and everyone who embodies our state  every institution, every official  must feel what kind of Ukraine is behind their backs. How much pain there is in her heart; how much courage she has; what are the memories of people who are no longer there; what kind of symbols it has now. And how differently people now perceive everything that humiliates Ukraine, its strength and hopes."

Details: Zelenskyy says it is a duty to be worthy of the path that Ukraine is on. "[It is necessary] to give Ukraine more strength. More opportunities. Duty [means taking care] of everyone and those close to you. Support. Take care of people. And always bring the result closer. The main result for Ukraine. Ukraine must win. This is the most important thing for everyone. So that [we] do not turn away from the photos of soldiers on the Wall of Remembrance and other memorials," the president said.

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Zelenskyy also thanked everyone who works for Ukraine and fights for it with dignity, courage and strength.

Ukrainska Pravda is the place where you will find the most up-to-date information about everything related to the war in Ukraine. Follow us on Twitter, support us, or become our patron!
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Aug. 29, Ukraines Defenders Day, paid solemn tribute to the soldiers who have given their lives in the Russian-Ukrainian war.

The presidents office issued a press release detailing the presidents schedule of commemorative events, and his official speech.

Every Aug. 29, we honor the memory of Ukrainian men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice defending our nation, Zelenskyy said in his speech.

They safeguarded Ukraines independence, secured freedom for our people, and protected the integrity of our country. They upheld Ukraines rightful place among the community of free nations.

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Read also: Zelenskyy speaks in Kyiv on Ukrainian Statehood Day

Accompanied by an honor guard, Zelenskyy placed a floral wreath at the Wall of Remembrance on Mykhailivska Square in Kyiv. A minute of silence was observed by the attendees as a mark of respect for the Ukrainian heroes who have given their lives for the nation.

Read also: Zelenskyy pledges to safeguard Ukraine's unity in a powerful speech on Independence Day in St. Sophia Square.

There are no words that can adequately capture the strength, magnificence, and selflessness of a hero, who eternally remains on the battlefield so that his nation may continue to cherish freedom and secure victory. Language always falls short of our deepest emotions, Zelenskyy said.

And today, let tears be shed, let the silence resonate louder than words, and let our heartfelt reverence stand as a testament to the genuine depth of our feelings and the immense gratitude we have for all our defenders. Their sacrifice has become an integral part of Ukraines identity.

President Zelenskyy also presented Orders of the Golden Star to the family members of Ukrainian defenders who had been posthumously honored as Heroes of Ukraine.

Additionally, he conferred the esteemed title of Hero of Ukraine upon five more fighters.

May the memory of all our warriors shine brightly, President Zelenskyy concluded.

Read also: President Zelenskyy honors MH17 victims on ninth anniversary of war crime

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Zimbabwe's main opposition party deputy spokesperson Gift Siziba addresses a press conference in Harare, Tuesday, Aug, 29, 2023. Siziba told reporters at a news conference that the party was demanding fresh elections supervised by neighbouring countries, digging in on its rejection of of last weeks polls that gave President Emmerson Mnangagwa and his party a majority.(AP Photo/Tsvangirayi Mukwazhi)

HARARE, Zimbabwe (AP)  Zimbabwes main opposition party on Tuesday demanded fresh elections supervised by neighboring countries, digging in on its rejection of last weeks polls that saw President Emmerson Mnangagwa win re-election and his long-ruling ZANU-PF party retain its majority in a vote criticized by international observers.

Gift Siziba, the deputy spokesman for the Citizens Coalition for Change party, told reporters at a news conference in the capital, Harare, that the party will not settle for less.

There is no alternative to a fresh and proper election  as an exit out of the vicious cycle of disputed elections," Siziba said. We are calling upon our African brothers to help facilitate, mediate and guarantee a process that will lead to our return to legitimacy.

He said his party rejected the election in its entirety.

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Siziba declined to say whether the CCC has told the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and the African Union, the regional bodies which sent observers to Zimbabwe, of its demand.

President Cyril Ramaphosa of neighboring South Africa has already congratulated Mnangagwa's government on the elections, as has Namibian leader Hage Geingob. Ramaphosa had taken note of the reports by the election observers, his office said.

Although SADC's observer mission criticized the elections, the body doesnt have a history of interfering to force a rerun.

CCC leader Nelson Chamisa described the presidential election result as a blatant and gigantic fraud on Sunday, a day after the electoral commission announced Mnangagwa  a former guerrilla fighter nicknamed the crocodile  had won a second five-year term with 52.6% of the vote. Chamisa won 44%, according to the commission.

Opposition spokesman Siziba also didn't rule out approaching the courts, saying the party will employ all necessary measures to ensure there is a fair election.

Going to court would mark a repeat of 2018, when Chamisa launched a legal challenge after narrowly losing to Mnangagwa in the first election since the ouster of longtime leader Robert Mugabe in a coup a year earlier. The Constitutional Court rejected Chamisa's challenge.

The results from the latest disputed vote in the southern African nation with a history of troubled elections were announced Saturday night, two days earlier than expected.

People in the country of 15 million were bound to view the results with suspicion, but Mnangagwa, 80, dismissed the opposition's allegations of vote fraud.

International rights groups Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International said there had been a crackdown on opposition in the buildup to the election. They accused Mnangagwa's administration and the ruling party of weaponizing the police and courts to arrest opposition figures, ban and break up opposition party rallies, and intimidate its supporters. More than 40 local election monitors were arrested during the election on what government critics said were trumped up charges.

Chamisa alleged in an interview with The Associated Press ahead of the vote that his supporters had often been threatened with violence.

The actual election last Wednesday was also problematic and voting was extended into Thursday because of a shortage of ballot papers, especially in the capital and other urban areas that are opposition strongholds. People slept at polling stations to make sure they were able to vote.

Mnangagwas officials have angrily reacted to reports by African and Western observer missions that said the polls failed to meet international standards for democracy. The European Union and Carter Center also described an atmosphere of intimidation and raised concerns about the possible disenfranchisement of some voters.

In response, Mnangagwa said some of the observers had gone beyond their limit by questioning laws passed by Zimbabwe's parliament in the buildup to the election.

There are no signs of unrest in the country, with people going about their business Tuesday in central Harare, which is again teeming with vendors after two days of quiet as people steered clear of the streets, fearful of the violence that has marked previous Zimbabwean elections.

___

AP Africa news: https://apnews.com/hub/africa
CAIRO, Aug. 29 (Xinhua) -- Chairman of Sudan's Sovereign Council Abdel Fattah Al-Burhan arrived here on Tuesday for talks with Egyptian president to address conflicts in Khartoum, semi-governmental Al-Qahera News TV channel reported.

Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah al-Sisi welcomed him at the coastal El Alamein International Airport in the northern part of the country.

This marks the first trip for Al-Burhan, who is also the general commander of the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF), since the clashes broke out between the SAF and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in mid-April.

"The two leaders will discuss developments in Sudan and means of developing Egyptian-Sudanese relations as well as issues of mutual concern," said a statement of the Sudanese council.

Since April 15, deadly armed clashes between the SAF and the RSF in Khartoum and other areas have killed over 3,000 people and injured more than 6,000, according to the Sudanese Health Ministry.

More than 4 million people have fled their homes, with 3.2 million displaced internally and close to 900,000 seeking refuge in countries including Chad, Egypt, and South Sudan, according to the latest UN estimates. 
By Enioluwa Adeniyi he official X account of the Chicago State University has been locked by the institution amid bombardment over the academic records of the Nigeria President, Bola Tinubu. Nigerians had criticized the institution over the non-release of the academic records of the presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the February 2023 election. Chicago University activated the protect your posts feature on X, which allows users to conceal their content from persons who are not followers. The credentials of the former governor of Lagos State show that he graduated from Chicago University in 1979 with a bachelors degree in business administration, accounting, and management. However, there have been allegations bordering on discrepancies with Tinubus certificate. Recently, the presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Atiku Abubakar, approached a US court for the northern district of Illinois in Chicago, for an order compelling CSU to release the academic records of Tinubu. The president, through his counsel, had filed a counter-application opposing the request for the release of his academic records. Responding to Atikus application, CSU said it would release Tinubus records if a US court grants the order. Amid the legal disputes, many Nigerians took to social media platforms to accuse the US university of conniving with Tinubu to conceal his academic records. See the reactions below: @InibeheEffiong wrote, If Nigerians decide to call you out, youre certainly in trouble. Chicago State University has locked their X account. @firstladyship wrote Chicago State University @ChicagoState has locked their Twitter account. They removed the 1979 yearbook from their archive. I wonder what they are hiding? Nigerians are camping on their page. @Shehu_Mahdi wrote, CHICAGO STATE UNIVERSITY AS AN ACCOMPLICE TO FRAUD: Bola said he graduated from CSU in 1979. Suddenly, the 1979 yearbook has disappeared from the CSU website. This means CSU is concealing a fraud so that they can partake in eating THE FORBIDEN FRUIT. Well, Fraud is Time-bound. @_Weyimi wrote, A glimpse of Chicago State University LinkedIn burning up @ChicagoState. We await their response. @MalchyOdo1 wrote, The Chicago State University is trying to hide something. I would understand if a Nigerian University is acting this funny but not an American University. Whats in it for them? @Fimiletoks wrote, They have moved to LinkedIn forcing Chicago State University to lock its comment section. This is the online wing of the 1pob terror1sts organization. The Agulu messiah cant claim that he is unaware of this harassment and cyberbullying. @JaypeeGeneral wrote, Nigerians don follow Chicago State University reach Facebook?? I hope they will use padlock ?? to lock Facebook the way they have locked their X account?? Nigerians are not joking. We must get to the root for Bola Tinubus certificate forgery. #AllEyesOnTheJudiciary. NAIJANEWS

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Being of service is a core tenet for retiring Council Bluffs Police Chief Tim Carmody, instilled in him at a young age through faith and family. He lived that ethos through every phase of a law enforcement career that has spanned four agencies and 40 years.

Having a servant mindset, putting people before myself, trying to think about the citizens that I serve, and the people that I serve with, and thinking about helping them grow and providing opportunities for them, Carmody said in an interview with The Nonpareil. And that goes for both the community and for our people, to make the town or the community I'm serving the safest it can be.

Over his nine years as police chief, Carmody oversaw a department that grew from 113 sworn officers to 120, and he was instrumental in bringing in much of the technology those officers utilize to be more effective and more efficient.

The project he is perhaps most proud of is getting the new police station built, for which Carmody credits the community for voting for it and the city for seeing the project come to fruition.

I'm extremely thankful for Mayor Walsh, for Wendy Schultz and for Brandon Garrett, and their support, he said. We wouldn't be sitting in this building if it wasn't for them. Their leadership has led us to where we're at now, and the city has a bright future.

"Our department has a bright future," he said. "We have great people here. Theyre in a good position and I'm excited on the opportunities that are ahead, and I know there's going to be some challenges, but I am also confident they're ready for those challenges and they'll work through them.

One immediate challenge Carmodys replacement will face is rounding out the departments leadership roles  all three of the departments captains will be retiring over the next few years, which is another reason why Carmody knew it was the right time to retire.

I think it's important that the next chief gets the chance to pick them, rather than me tell them who he or she is going to get, Carmody said.

One thing that Carmody is certain of is that the next police chief will be warmly welcomed and supported by the community, just like he was.

I openly brag about this community and the support they provide our department and our people, he said. And of the four agencies I worked for in the four communities, I loved each one of them and they've been great, but no one has been as supportive as Council Bluffs and it's made a huge difference for our people. Just yesterday, we had another organization come in and provide lunch for our people on all three shifts, and that's the kind of love and support that makes us want to go out and work to make it a safer place.

Carmodys career began at the Sarpy County Jail, where he booked suspects who had been arrested  memorably, Carmody was on duty the night serial killer John Joubert was brought in. Joubert had murdered three boys, ages 11 to 13, between August 1982 and December 1983 before his arrest in January 1984.

And I'm looking at this guy thinking, How can so much evil be in any one person, and how do you balance that in this world? Carmody said. That's very memorable for Sarpy. I remember that investigation and the impact it had on the community, and the fear and frustration and the work that people put into trying to solve that. For Sarpy, that was a huge, huge investigation.

The longest stop of his career was in Omaha, where he rose from patrol officer to commander of the citys Northeast Precinct.

In Omaha, Carmody worked a number of assignments, from bike patrol to heading up the Metro Area Fugitive Task Force, but it was with the citys Emergency Response Unit that he feels he did the most good for the community.

Composed of SWAT, the bomb squad and the crisis negotiation team, Carmody worked his way up from team member to trainer to team leader and, finally, to commander.

I came to Omaha because I wanted to work in North Omaha, and I wanted to get on the SWAT team because I believed I could help, and both of those dreams came true, Carmody said. I served 17 years on SWAT, and I got to do a lot of cool things, but I worked with a team and that was the coolest part, is the people I worked with were so close, and we were able to work together to make things happen and make it safe for other people. Working barricaded subjects or doing high risk search warrants or robberies. Prevention operations, Interdiction operations, things like that. Buy-bust operations. A variety of assignments.

After nearly 23 years with Omaha, Carmody applied to be the chief of police in Fort Dodge, Iowa. He held that position for four years, and credits it for preparing him for the job in Council Bluffs.

That helped me cut my teeth, and I deeply appreciate the opportunity that they gave me, he said. I love that community and the people there. It was just too far away from our family.

When he was given the opportunity to be chief of police in Council Bluffs, it was a blessing, Carmody said.

Being able to retire after 40 years on the job is something of a blessing, too.

I buried five or six friends that were killed either in the line of duty or murdered, Carmody said. A very close friend of mine, who was our chaplain, he was a minister in Fort Dodge. He was killed at his church. And I remember Jimmy Wilson and Tye Pratt and the other friends that lost their lives giving to their community, and what that sacrifice means, and it empowers people in the job to work that much harder.

Carmodys last official day as police chief is Sept. 11. Hell spend the next few weeks doing the job, but also helping the city figure out what it wants out of its next chief.

I've helped the HR manager and also the consultant talk through some things, and talked to the mayor and the chief of staff, Carmody said. They ultimately will make the decision. I'm giving some input, but it's (the mayors) choice.

Once retired, and after a trip to Ohio to visit the grandkids, Carmody plans to continue to serve his community through volunteer work.

Ill continue to serve, just in a different way, he said.
NEW YORK (AP)  About 2 in 3 Americans say their household expenses have risen over the last year, but only about 1 in 4 say their income has increased in the same period, according to a new poll from The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research.
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Russian authorities on Sunday (27 August) confirmed the death of Wagner Group chief Yevgeny Prigozhin in a plane that crashed on August 23, sparking concerns for some client governments in Africa who rely on his unique services.

Russias presence in Africa depends heavily on the Wagner Group and since Prigozhin was the face of the groups military operations in a number of African countries, experts largely agree that the Wagner machine in the continent will likely survive its leaders death, though it may slow somewhat. To that end, many now wonder if military support from Russia in Africa will remain unchanged.

Although the once-powerful Russian private military company is now cast into a great uncertainty, Western experts and officials say it is unlikely that Moscow wants to squander the trained fighters, geopolitical inroads and business interests that Prigozhin cultivated since Wagners founding in 2014. The Kremlin is now reportedly considering ways to bring Wagner under more direct control of the Russian state.

According to Ryan Cummings, Director at Signal Risk, Centre for Strategies and International Studies (CSIS), Wagners operations in Africa may likely continue as they have been doing for the past few months or even years in certain contexts. When it comes to Wagners operations in the Central African Republic, Mali, Sudan and Libya, Cummings says he can see no immediate indication that there has been a compromise in the relation between these countries commanders and the Putin administration. He also believes that Wagner will likely undergo some leadership changes at the top ranks of the group, which will allow it to continue its operations in these countries without significant disruption.

For Raoufal Sani, a security analyst based in Niger, even long before Prigozhins death, the Wagner leader did not have the same force he used to have before the attempted coup in late June. Since his aborted attempt to take power in Moscow, the Russian authorities have ensured that they take over his main activities in the world, Sani said. He thinks nothing will change and that the importance of Wager in Niger or the Sahel is a question of belief: The opinion in these countries is that the military and therefore the Western presence has not produced the desired results.
JUBA, Aug. 29 (Xinhua) -- United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) Filippo Grandi on Tuesday appealed for 1 billion U.S. dollars to support returnees and refugees who fled the Sudan crisis to the neighboring countries.

Grandi told journalists in the South Sudanese capital of Juba that with the high influx of people from Sudan, the UNHCR has exhausted all the resources it had mobilized earlier and now requires more funds. "I have to announce today that we are appealing for a billion U.S. dollars to run through from September to December because we are already in September, and so we need to extend all the response programs, and that is why we need a billion dollars."

"We are operating in the context of a humanitarian appeal that we issued at the beginning of the crisis, just after the Sudanese refugees started moving out of Sudan in April. We appealed for half a billion dollars not just for South Sudan but for countries that are receiving the Sudanese refugees. That appeal was valid until September, and we have received half of that amount, but that has come to an end," Grandi said.

The UNHCR chief said the influx of refugees and returnees from Sudan is raising serious concerns, especially by the end of the year if nothing is done regarding transportation and food items.

He noted that out of the 1 billion dollars they are appealing for, South Sudan will receive 356 million dollars while the rest can go to other countries such as Chad and Egypt, which are also receiving Sudanese refugees.

Grandi said South Sudan has received about 400,000 people, the majority being South Sudanese returnees; most of them are currently in the transit centers, mainly in Renk, Palouch, and other parts of the country on the border with Sudan. 
The BRICS leaders, who met in Johannesburg, provided a significant boost to Moroccos stance on the Sahara issue by supporting it and affirming their dedication to international law. This move dealt a fatal blow to Algeria and the polisario, commented Spanish news outlet Atalayar.

The BRICS meetings declaration unequivocally supports the Moroccan stance, advocating the United Nations exclusive leadership in the process while emphasizing the importance of respecting and actively contributing to this process, says the magazine specializing in Maghreb and Arab affairs.

The countries in this grouping emphasized that resolving the Moroccan Sahara issue and finding a sustainable political solution require adherence to the Security Councils resolutions and parameters, the Spanish outlet says.

The international community, including the United Nations, African countries, and global actors, favor the Moroccan autonomy initiative because it aligns with the pragmatism, realism, compromise, and sustainability required by the Security Council, it noted further.

The BRICS members rejected attempts to include this issue in discussions and did not mention it in their statements, showing thus that these countries refused to use BRICS for lost causes.

The magazine argues that this failure should serve as a warning to those persisting in giving global resonance to isolated thinking.

This position taken by the BRICS also showcases the groups commitment to its relationships and strategic partnerships with the Kingdom, despite external interference, observes the Spanish publication.

In the Johannesburg Declaration II they adopted at their meeting on August 23, the leaders of the BRICS countries reaffirmed their commitment to multilateralism, in line with the principles of the United Nations Charter, which defends territorial integrity, non-interference in the affairs of States and the peaceful settlement of disputes.

The Declaration underlined the importance of reaching a solution to the Moroccan Sahara issue, in accordance with the Resolutions and parameters of the Security Council, aimed at achieving a lasting political solution to this artificial conflict. It undeniably confirms the prevalence of the Moroccan position, which has consistently insisted on the need to respect and support this process conducted exclusively under UN auspices.

Disavowed by the BRICS in its abortive attempt to harm the Kingdoms interests, Algeria (and its separatist puppet) finds itself, once again, against an international legality that it constantly seeks to transgress. Algiers gesticulations ended, for the umpteenth time and much to the despair of their instigators, with a clear and unambiguous call for respect, explicitly reiterated by the BRICS, for the political process conducted under the exclusive aegis of the United Nations Security Council.
During a major foreign policy speech to ambassadors gathered in Paris on Monday (28 August), French President Emmanuel Macron said his country refuses any paternalism but also any weakness in Africa, as the Sahel faces an epidemic of putsches amid a wave of anti-French sentiment.

In his speech, Macron called for a strengthening of Frances diplomatic efforts as the international community faces new challenges, most recently in Niger, where the French ambassador is still in post despite an ultimatum from the ruling military. The French president confirmed that the French ambassador to Niger, Sylvain Itte, was listening in from capital Niamey despite being given a 48-hour deadline to leave the country last Friday (25 August). Neither paternalism, nor weakness, because otherwise were nowhere, he told French ambassadors gathered at the Elysee Palace, calling on Sahel countries to have a responsible policy in this area.

Our international order is being challenged, said Macron, specifically referring to war (that) has returned to European soil, anti-French sentiment is rife, fueled by anti-colonialism or a perceived anti-colonialism that a double standard is being employed. The world order is changing, with the situation getting tougher and more complicated, said Macron, warning that this runs the risk of weakening the West and our Europe in particular. The French president also hailed the work of French diplomats who have faced particularly difficult situations in some countries in recent months, from Sudan, where France has been exemplary, to Niger at this very moment, reiterating that our policy is clear: we do not recognize the putschists. Macrons words came as the European Union on the same day expressed its full support for the French envoy in Niger, after the soldiers who seized power in the country demanded his departure.
UN chief Antonio Guterres has raised concern about the situation in Zimbabwe, where tensions are rising after a disputed election, with critics inside and outside the southern African country criticized the re-election of incumbent President Emmerson Mnangagwa does not appear to reflect the will of the people.

Mnangagwa was reelected with 52.6% of the vote, avoiding a runoff with rival Nelson Chamisa of the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC). The opposition immediately contested the results, with Chamisa calling the vote fraught with unprecedented illegality and describing the results as doctored and criminal. International election observers stressed that there had been problems with the poll, citing specifically an atmosphere of intimidation against Chamisas supporters. Guterres spokesperson said the UN chief was closely following developments in Zimbabwe after the hotly contested election and is concerned about the arrest of observers, reports of voter intimidation, threats of violence, harassment and coercion.

The elections took place amid censored media coverage and new, draconian laws like the Patriotic Bill, which even authorizes the death penalty for anyone found guilty of willfully damaging the sovereignty and national interest of Zimbabwe that many see as the governments tool to suppress political opponents. When youve got all that going on and can only win with 52% of the vote, thats pretty remarkable, says Nic Cheeseman, an analyst and democracy scholar at the University of Birmingham. This result shows us the depth of public anger against the government. As Zimbabwes security forces have also a history of cracking down on protesters around election time, it does not come as a surprise that 41 election monitors were reportedly arrested in multiple raids and their computers and mobile phones were seized during the vote. The secretary-general calls on political leaders and their supporters to reject violence, threats of violence or incitement to violence, and to ensure human rights and the rule of law are fully respected, Guerres spokesperson said.
Environment ministers from fifty-four African countries have acknowledged key environmental challenges faced by the continent  land degradation, desertification and drought  in the Addis Ababa declaration.

The declaration was a key outcome of the 19th African Ministerial Conference on the Environment (AMCEN) 2023 that was held in mid August in Ethiopias capital city. In the Addis Ababa declaration, the fifty-four environment ministers have agreed to institute national and regional strategies to minimize environmental impacts in the extraction and processing of critical mineral resources. The continent is facing several key environmental challenges as countries, especially China, rush to Africa to extract its mineral resources. The declaration prioritizes urgent, wide-ranging action on environmental challenges related to climate change, plastics pollution, marine protection, biodiversity conservation and natural capital.

Focusing on the theme Seizing Opportunities and Enhancing Collaboration to Address Environmental Challenges in Africa, the AMCEN 2023 conference included several constructive dialogues and discussions on formulating strategies to jointly address the challenges and seize emerging opportunities. The signatories also committed to take appropriate measures to implement the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework through updating or revising national biodiversity strategies and action plans or national targets. The ultimate aim is to increase the global finance flow to at least $100 billion per year, stated the declaration. The countries have also agreed to prioritize the implementation of the Africa Blue Economy Strategy of the African Union.
A grouping of 40 political parties, known as The Egyptian Parties Alliance, has called on President Abdelfattah al-Sisi to seek another term in office, ahead of 2024 presidential elections.

This endorsement aims to fulfil the aspirations and ambitions of the Egyptian people and to continue the path of development and progress, the alliance said in a statement after representatives from its members met in a conference on Monday August 28.

In spite of the challenges and adversities confronted by the Egyptian State, Egypt under the leadership of President Abdelfattah al-Sisi has achieved security, stability, and modernization, the statement stressed.

To back their call, they shed a light on the alleged development Egypt has witnessed under his presidency.

The alliance includes the Sadat Democratic Party, the Nasserist Party, the Shabab Misr Party, the Arab Socialist Party, the Free Constitutional Party, and the Tahrir Party, Ahram Online reports.

Al-Sisi also last week received endorsement from Mostaqabal Watan Party, the countrys parliamentary majority party. The Egyptian President came to power in 2014, after deposing then the democratically elected leader, late Mohamed Morsi. He won another term in 2018 but in 2019, an amendment to the Constitution, which was overwhelmingly approved by the electorate in a popular referendum, changed a presidential term to six years thus allowing the incumbent leader to stay in office till 2024.

So far, Al-Sisi has not made any public announcement about his plans to run for another term or not.
The China Development Bank (CDB) and the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) inked Monday August 28 a $400-mllion loan to be used to support the financing of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across Africa.

President of CDB, Mr. Tan Jiong, and President and Chairman of the Board of Directors of Afreximbank, Prof. Benedict Oramah, signed the deal at Afreximbanks headquarters in the Egyptian capital Cairo.

Per the deal, the loan which has a seven-year tenor, will be deployed either directly to eligible African SMEs that meet Afreximbanks requirements or indirectly through local financial intermediaries.

African SMEs continue to struggle to access adequate and affordable financing for growing their businesses, Prof. Oramah said at the signing ceremony, noting that the CDB facility would help increase the level of financing available to them.

This facility further strengthens the strategic partnership we have developed with the China Development Bank over the last six years, which has seen CDB make three previous interventions in support of our work at Afreximbank, Oramah stressed.

CDB has cooperated with African Export-Import Bank seven times in credit issuance since 2009, resulting in loans totaling $800 million.
French Republicans were the latest in a wave of voices that called on Emmanuel Macron to break away from his Algeria bias in favor of mending ties with Morocco.

What a suffering for all those who love France like us to see our country incapable of defending its interestsI blame the head of state. I blame him for sacrificing our relation with Morocco in an attempt to please Algeria, said the Republicans deputee Michelle Tabarot at a meeting of her party marking the end of the summer break.

There would be no Mediterranean policy without Morocco. The president of the republic needs to understand this, she said.

I ask (Macron) to put an end to these ties of submission with Algeria and to leave Evian accords, she said.

Earlier this summer, a group of 94 members of the French parliament sent a letter to President Macron urging him to make a stand in support of Moroccos sovereignty over the Sahara territory as part of efforts to restore an African-French foreign policy in demise.

In Morocco, French procrastination on the Sahara (at a time Spain and Germany recognized Moroccos sovereignty over the Sahara) and the balance seeking policy by the Quai DOrsay with Algeria, have pushed the Royal Palace to seek defense and economic partners elsewhere, noted the letter.

Former president Sarkozy has also rebuked Macron for worsening ties with Rabat.

We risk losing everything! We will not win Algerias trust but we will lose that of Morocco, Sarkozy said on the occasion of the publication of a book that blames Macron for the erosion of French influence in the Maghreb and Africa.

Lets not try to build an artificial friendship with Algerian leaders who systematically use France as a scapegoat to mask their own failures and legitimacy deficit. They will always reject it, warned Sarkozy.

Following Israels recognition of Moroccos sovereignty over the Sahara, influential members of the French political class urged Macron to recognize the Sahara as part of Morocco, following similar moves by the US and Israel.

These include Head of Les Republicains party, Eric Ciotti, Head of the UDI party and senator Herve Marseille

While France has supported Moroccos autonomy initiative, the administration of President Macron has yet to make its stand clear on the matter amid a global momentum in favor of Moroccos territorial integrity and its autonomy initiative for the southern provinces.

So far, Paris has dragged its feet on recognizing the Sahara issue in the hope that it will improve ties with Algeria. Its hope turned to be a chimera as Algeria tilted to the Russian axis while persisting in hostility to France, going as far as introducing an anti-French stanzas in its national anthem.

In the meantime, Morocco forged ahead building alliances and partnerships elsewhere, bolstered by a growing support in the African continent and beyond for its historic rights over its Saharan provinces.

Moroccos King Mohammed VI had said that the Sahara is the prism through which Morocco measures the sincerity of partnerships and that Morocco will not enter into an economic or commercial step that excludes the Sahara territory.
HERSHEY  Leaders of Lincoln Countys budding industrial rail park got down Monday to the key question: What do we do with this?

Board members of the brand-new Nebraska International Port of the Plains inland port authority used their second monthly meeting to explore that question with two visiting experts.

Chairman Vince Dugan peppered them with questions about what goods and industries the rail park can attract, how loading, unloading and customs operations might work and how to design the park to accommodate it all.

Some of the things that weve been talking about (are) whats going to be our sweet spot, said the Trego-Dugan Aviation Inc. president. What do we have available here that is going to be something thats marketable?

Todd Hackel, Union Pacific Railroads regional manager of industrial development, and Paul Hentschke, senior vice president of TranSystems of Fort Worth, Texas, agreed that agricultural foodstuffs and biofuels are the most promising outbound products.

Mixed local manifest U.P. trains are most likely to bring goods in and out from the rail park that move between Lincoln County and other national and international locations, they added.

Plans for designing the rail park should be loose enough to where when you do get that anchor industry to come in, you can adjust it as we need to go, Hentschke said in a conference room at the former Greenbrier Rail Services building, now rail-park headquarters.

TranSystems did the initial rail park conceptual study for the North Platte Area Chamber & Development Corp., which spearheaded the rail parks founding starting in 2020.

Lincoln County commissioners agreed last year to found the Port of the Plains, designated by the state in February as one of Nebraskas first two inland port authorities. Its board held its organizational meeting July 31.

Hentschke and Hackel helped board members distinguish between intermodal shipping  which moves preloaded, sealed containers among trucks, trains and ships  and transmodal shipping that involves transloading products between trains and trucks into different containers.

Oceangoing shipping lines typically own and control the intermodal containers people see stacked up on flatcars, the visitors said.

Intermodal terminals handle a very specialized service product, Hackel said. The nearest of U.P.s 24 such terminals are in Denver and Council Bluffs, Iowa, though he said the latter is much smaller than Denvers.

Given those realities, the Hershey rail park likely would be most attractive for transloading products from truck to rail or from rail to truck or storing products in warehouses, Hentschke said.

But having an intermodal hub (for) the containers that are coming in and being stacked, you know, five or six high  thats really not this location.

Both said Port of the Plains perhaps could facilitate stuffing of intermodal containers  if they can be leased  at the Hershey rail park for export abroad.

North Plattes proximity to Denver could help, Hackel said. If theyre able to get containers from Denver, they could bring them on a chassis, bring them to this area, stuff the container, dray it back  and then move by train from there.

We have several (people) in the area who are very interested in loading intermodal containers from the rail park, said board member Kirk Olson.

Weve talked a lot about the stuffing operation. I think thats a viable option here, Hentschke said. But if thats something that the group wants to proceed forward with, you know, theres a lot more due diligence to do.

Hackel cautioned the board not to get too caught up on intermodal containers. The bulk of agricultural products we move on Union Pacific today is moving in carloads.

He and Hentschke said Union Pacific likely would pick up or deliver cars at the rail park as a drop-and-pull operation rather than have engines enter the rail park to serve customers.

A third-party short-line railroad likely would be needed to build and break up trains within the park, Hentschke said.

I keep falling back to the ag side in identifying products that would be Port of the Plains niche for handling at the Hershey rail park, he added.

The North Platte chamber last September said its looking to recruit a soybean oil crush processing plant as the rail parks anchor industry, shipping its product to renewable diesel fuel producers.

Refrigerated foods produced locally and held at the rail park for shipment also could be attractive, Hackel said. Outbound beef from the Sustainable Beef LLC plant has been mentioned as a possibility by North Platte-area leaders.

That could be a pretty good fit for the railroad, Hackel said. U.P. trains haul potatoes, onions and other foods from the Pacific Northwest and Idaho, and they go back with Midwest protein.

Possible incoming products at the rail park could include raw foods for processing, steel coils for producing pipe, rock for road construction, road salt, magnesium chloride and lumber, Hackel and Hentschke said.
Photo: Bloomberg/Getty/Bloomberg via Getty Images

Ron DeSantis makes a big show of picking on mask-wearing children, teachers, and LGBTQ+ people, but hes repeatedly proven himself no match for Donald Trump, the biggest bully U.S. politics has ever seen. Despite predictions that the Republican presidential primary would quickly turn into a two-way race between the Florida men, Trump has managed to maintain a huge polling lead over DeSantis, partly through the use of schoolyard intimidation tactics. Trump saddled DeSantis with a variety of juvenile nicknames, refused to invite him to major events, insulted his looks behind his back, and relentlessly mocked him for the weird way he (allegedly) eats pudding.

Now Trump is trying to start a rumor that DeSantis is quitting the presidential race, and he isnt even being sneaky about it. On Monday, Trump shared some hot gossip with his 6.4 million Truth Social followers, claiming rumors are strong in political circles that DeSantis would soon abandon his presidential campaign to run for the Senate against fellow Republican Rick Scott, who is up for reelection in 2024:

As FloridaPolitics.com pointed out, this rumor (which Trump originally misspelled as roomer) doesnt really make any sense:

 DeSantis has tried to run for Senate once. After his second term in the House, he launched a bid for Marco Rubios Senate seat, but abandoned it to run for re-election once Rubio decided he wanted another term.

If DeSantis were to run against Scott and win, he would leave the Governors Office midway through his second term. While thats understandable for a run for President, there is little indication that DeSantis has an interest in leaving an executive position to be one of 100 Senators.

It seems highly unlikely that DeSantis would give up the last two years of his term as governor to primary a GOP senator. But of course, Trumps intent probably wasnt to share plausible information but to add to the narrative that the DeSantis campaign is flailing. (While DeSantis has been plagued by bad news and he isnt closing the gap with Trump, his poll numbers have not absolutely crashed.)

DeSantis has never been good at neutralizing Trumps bullying; his standard, cringey response to Trumps nicknames is that he can call him whatever he wants just as long as you also call me a winner. The campaigns response to Trumps rumor was similarly uninspiring. Bryan Griffin, a press secretary for DeSantiss campaign, posted on X:

This is fake news. Clearly, Donald Trump and his army of consultants are panicked about @RonDeSantis winning debate performance and the strong momentum that has followed. They know this is a two-man race, and we will carry this on to a win in this presidential primary. Instead of pushing fake news from New Jersey, the Trump campaign should be focused on getting their candidate on the campaign trail in Iowa and on the debate stage before its too late.

DeSantis didnt clearly win the first GOP debate, the primary is not a two-man race, and fake news is Trumps line. The governor should probably work on his tactics for countering Trump, but there may not be much time. A lot of people are saying he wont be in the race for long.
Opelika City Attorney Guy Gunter has reached his 50-year milestone as a member of the Alabama State Bar association, the City of Opelika announced on Thursday.

Gunter spent 48 of those years representing the city. Government officials recognized this significant moment in Gunters career as well as his honorable, devoted and dedicated service to the Opelika community, State of Alabama and United States.

Guy is one of the strongest assets that we have at the city, Mayor Gary Fuller said. We are thankful and honored that he has spent the bulk of his career representing Opelika, and we look forward to many more years.

In 1970, Gunter completed his undergraduate degree at The University of Alabama. Three years later, he graduated from The University of Alabama Law School and was admitted into the Alabama State Bar Association.

Gunter had his own private law firm on Ninth Street before he closed it in December 2013 and became the city attorney full-time. He served as the city prosecutor from 1975 until 2019, according to the city.

As the city attorney, Gunter advises the mayor and city council. He also prepares resolutions, ordinances, contracts and other legal documents. He attends city council and planning commission meetings.
WINDHOEK, Aug. 29 (Xinhua) -- Namibia has decided to open its electricity market to independent power producers (IPPs) and helped investors to enter markets of other regional countries.

Namibia's Electricity Control Board (ECB), Namibia Power Corporation (NamPower) and the Southern African Power Pool (SAPP) on Monday launched the SAPP and Modified Single Buyer (MSB) Market Access Guide at a two-day conference in Windhoek, capital of Namibia.

SAPP, which is a regional organization of power utilities within the Southern African Development Community, an intergovernmental organization, was created in August 1995 and has been successful in promoting the cooperation and coordination of the power sectors of its member states.

The guide helps independent power producers understand necessary processes and outlines requirements for their active participation in the power markets in Namibia and other regional countries.

"With the introduction of the MSB market model, we have successfully opened our electricity market to allow new entrants, new investment opportunities as well as new technical possibilities for the electricity supply industry," Namibia's Minister of Mines and Energy Tom Alweendo said in a statement.

According to Alweendo, the MSB model, introduced as a new market platform in 2019, has strengthened the role of the IPPs by allowing certain consumers to purchase a certain portion of their electricity needs directly from the IPPs. Before its introduction, power could only be purchased by state-owned NamPower.

And since the launch of the MSB market in Namibia, there have been requests for support with SAPP market access.

"Under the MSB, all transmission-connected customers ... are allowed to buy a portion of their electricity from local IPPs," he said adding that at a cross-border level, the MSB also allows for IPPs to be set up in Namibia specifically for electricity export purposes.

According to Alweendo, open access to both the SAPP and MSB markets is not only a boost for national and regional electricity trading but will provide vital infrastructure and insights for realizing the continental vision of the Africa Single Electricity Market.

"Firmly acknowledging the local MSB market in Namibia, with this guide, we provide structured information on how to become an active SAPP member. We are starting from the advanced Namibian perspective but ultimately aim to boost electricity trading in the entire region through increased participation of independent players," said Stephen Dihwa, coordination center executive director of SAPP.

Meanwhile, Robert Kahimise, the chief executive officer of the ECB, reiterated that from a policy perspective, Namibia's MSB market model has opened the door to a whole range of new investors and enables exports into the SAPP markets.

"The guidelines offer vital information to anyone interested in tapping into this potential," he added. 
A recent report the consulting firm Oliver Wyman projected that the aviation industry will have a shortage of 12,000 to 18,0000 technicians in 2023, blaming retiring Baby Boomers and a low supply of Generation Z workers.

Southern Union State Community College kicked off a new Aviation Maintenance Technology program in the fall to address the shortage.

Its the newest certification and degree program the college offers on the Opelika campus. SUSCC has become one of four Alabama community colleges to offer an AMT program.

Theres a shortage of pilots worldwide, but theres an even bigger shortage of technicians, SUSCC president Todd Shackett said.

In October 2022, Shackett told the Opelika-Auburn News that the college decided to create the program after Auburn University approached him about the need for technicians. He said for every pilot, seven technicians are needed.

The six-semester program has been designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills to excel as aircraft maintenance technicians. It help students obtain the Federal Aviation Administration certifications, according to SUSCCs website said. A total of 22 students have joined the AMT program.

The curriculum will allow students to work on a variety of aircraft equipment and components including a 1969 Bellanca Viking, a 1962 Piper Cherokee and repurposed airplane engines.

Students will learn the maintenance and repair of aircraft mechanical systems including: turbine and reciprocating engines, hydraulics, non-metallic structures, fuel systems, corrosion control, propellers, sheet metal, flight controls, landing gear and electrical systems.

People continue to operate older aircraft and continue to make new aircraft every day, said Richard Belk, the director of Aviation at SUSCC. As the number and complexity of aircraft has increased, the pool of experienced mechanics  many of whom have reached retirement age has dwindled and created a severe deficit in the field. Were 35,000 mechanics short in the industry today.

After students pass the coursework and the Federal Aviation Administration tests, they can chose to go straight into the workforce or take additional core academic courses.

In 2022, the average starting salary for an Alabama aviation mechanic was $81,000. Across the region and nation, salaries often top $100,000, according to the SUSCC.

Alabama is 10th in the United States as far as employing aircraft professionals such as maintenance technicians and mechanics, Belk said.

Throughout his 40-year aviation career, Belk has worked for the military, FAA, international companies like FedEx Express and major airports and airlines.

After working as a trainer and safety inspector for about a decade, Belk retired from the FAA in January 2022. He jumped on the opportunity to serve as the director of the Aviation Maintenance Technology Program when he saw a job opening about it. Hes passionate about building the new program from the ground up.

Belk was hired in February 2022. He now works with the first AMT class. Students range in age from recent high school graduates to adults pursing new career paths.

Belk believes the program will not only launch these students careers while attracting new aviation-based jobs to the area. It could provide a significant economic boost to the area, he said.
This is sad.

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I feel like you hear so many stories like this about child stars. Almost like maybe kids shouldnt be thrust into the limelight that young?

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I've said it before, but every child star has a fucked up story that demonstrate time and time again that children should not be in show business

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This might be the only could use for CGI/AI generated characters in filmskids

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IA but also, i bet there is significant overlap between 1) child stars and 2) children with horrible parents who do not have their best interest at heart. In which case, the kids maybe wouldn't fare well even without show business, it's just that none of us would ever know their story.

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i can only think of saoirse ronan and like the hp kids (the main cast). they seem to be doing well.

but like you're right. so many of these kids have parents who aren't looking out for their children's wellbeing, only to squeeze them dry.

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He looks a lot older than 32, also looks like life has not been kind to him. Hope he can find his way out and back to health.

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Holy shit he is looking rough.

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C'mon now, all that over some damn chips? Was calling the law really necessary, especially since he left?

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I wonder if he drove away drunk.

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This is America, remember. Poverty and addiction are criminalized :(

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i found that odd too, police often dont show up to crimes that are more serious.

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I could imagine the hotel could see him causing a scene as bad for business lol which is why they prob called but also I think a lot of peoples first reaction is to call the police when a youre stuck somewhere and a stranger is drunk and yelling at you imo



OH SHIT HE LEFT yeah just let the dude have the chips wtf



Maybe they just didnt want a drunk man out in public. Which brings up the reply about how we criminalize those individuals. Im worried about his safety at that point of him just leaving, but that safety sure as hell isnt going to be in the jail system



Edited at 2023-08-28 11:11 pm (UTC)

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This is my thing. I have seen people who have been wayyyy too drunk in public. I wish there was another way to insure that they get home safely and frankly, i dont trust the police to be the ones ESPECIALLY when it comes to women in very vulnerable states. I dont want them to be reprimanded but just get home safely. I also dont think it should be free but I know police typically arent doing shit and theyre being paid regardless



In this situation, I wonder if the police did anything to deescalate/fix the situation OR did they go in their guns a blazing? But obviously not LITERALLY because this is a white man in Dallas this just seems like a waste of money but aint that the police in general

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I googled him and it looks like Disney cut ties with him because this happened once before in 2011.



On October 17, 2011, at 3:43 a.m., Musso was pulled over in Burbank, California, failed to slow down for traffic cops, and charged with a DUI suspicion. He was approached by the police who then smelled alcohol and proceeded to give him a field sobriety test and breathalyzer. Musso, aged 20, was under the legal drinking age and blew above the legal limit of .08 blood alcohol content. His bail was set at $5,000, but he was released on account of no outstanding warrants.[16] Musso told E! Online, that, "In becoming an adult, I have learned first hand that stepping up and taking responsibility is the best way to move forward. I am especially thankful to my family and fans for their unwavering support and encouragement. I am glad to now put this in the past."[17] This incident is what caused his character to be written out of Pair of Kings and the show PrankStars to be cancelled.[18]

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It sounds like he has had issues w/ alcohol for all his adult life now. Hope he gets the help he needs

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But he kept doing voice work for Phineas & Ferb. No clue how big of a character Jeremy is though.

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Voice work is probably far more lax...or maybe they had him work off a contract via voice work and then told him to skedaddle.

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poor guy :(



I really wonder what kind of chips they were though

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I'm hoping they weren't Lay's. :(

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Not me eating the yellow lays rn

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for his sake, I hope doritos :(

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I'm guessing the really basic ones since it was a hotel lobby. the yellow lays, sour cream and onion, red and blue Doritos and plain Fritos. maybe a white cheddar smart popcorn. none of those are worth paying for! free him!

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If they're Funyuns, I'll understand. I swear you can go like 6 years without eating those and then all the sudden out of nowhere you get the biggest most unhinged craving of your life. Next thing you know, you're shivering behind a dumpster with the onion fingertips, stank breath, and a scraped inner mouth

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Man child stars are all so messed up. I feel for them

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omg i haven't seen him in years and the change in apperance is really shocking. it has to be drugs or something right? that isn't just not using sunscreen.

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That, or extreme alcohol abuse. But instinct makes me think its probably also drugs.

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looks like meth

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yeah that's what i was thinking :(

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He doesn't look well. It's really sad how some people's lowest moments are documented for the world to see. I hope he gets some help.

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Aww I feel for famous people especially former child stars when this happens cause it all gets released publicly. I wish they'd give them some grace :/

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is he wearing a snuggie

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He was likely booked shirtless :(

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oh :( i wish it was a snuggie

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I wish we would give child stars the dignity of being forgotten.

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the worst part is bc of shrinkflation he ended paying 1k for 3 chips. this is sad tho, I was actually wondering where he went the other day after catching an interview with Orlando brown. young kids have no business in Hollywood, young kids have no business being a breadwinner/financial contributor to the house, young kids have no business working, and these companies have abandoned the wellbeing of everyone in the industry for profit.

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Oman has an importance to China and Iran that goes way beyond its relatively small oil and gas reserves (only around five billion barrels of oil reserves and about 24 trillion cubic feet of gas). Crucial to both countries is Omans geographically-strategic position, with long coastlines along the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea offering unfettered equal access to the markets of the West and the East. According to a senior source who works closely with Irans Petroleum Ministry spoken to by OilPrice.com, Chinas long-held objective is to secure control over Oman to have mastery over all the key crude oil shipping route chokepoints from the Middle East into Europe that avoid the Cape of Good Hope route (more expensive and more nautically challenging) and the Strait of Hormuz route (more politically sensitive). This is fully aligned with Beijings broad strategic goal encapsulated in its One Belt, One Road multi-generational power-grab project.

China already has effective control over the Strait of Hormuz through the all-encompassing Iran-China 25-Year Comprehensive Cooperation Agreement, as first revealed anywhere in the world in my 3 September 2019 article on the subject and as analysed in full in my new book on the new global oil market order. The same deal also gives China a hold over the Bab al-Mandab Strait, through which crude oil is shipped upwards through the Red Sea towards the Suez Canal before moving into the Mediterranean and then westwards. This has been achieved as it lies between Yemen (the Houthis having been long supported by Iran) and Djibouti (over which China has also established a stranglehold).

Related: Chevron Evacuates Gulf Of Mexico Oil Platforms As Hurricane Idalia Approaches

China has another use for Oman, which is to enable its core Middle Eastern partner, Iran, to finally build out its liquefied natural gas (LNG) business into a world-scale operation. The plan is for Iran to utilise at least 25 percent of Omans total 1.5 million tons per year LNG production capacity at the Qalhat plant. Such an idea was originally part of the broader co-operation deal made between Oman and Iran in 2013, extended in scope in 2014, and fully ratified in August 2015 that was centred on Omans importing at least 10 billion cubic metres of natural gas per year (bcm/y) from Iran for 25 years through an underwater pipeline. That deal was to have begun in 2017, at which time it was worth around US$60 billion. The target was then changed to 43 bcm/y to be imported for 15 years, and then finally altered to at least 28 bcm/y, also for a minimum period of 15 years. The land pipeline of the project that would move gas from Irans supergiant South Pars and North Pars fields in the first instance would comprise around 200 kilometres of 56-inch pipeline to run from Rudan to Mobarak Mount in the southern Hormozgan province. The sea section would include a 192-kilometre section of 36-inch pipeline along the bed of the Oman Sea at depths of up to 1,340 metres, from Iran to Sohar Port in Oman.

This deal was intended to allow for the completely free movement of Iranian gas (and later oil) via Oman, running out through the Gulf of Oman and then into the world hydrocarbons markets. The route was designed to allow Iran the same sanctions-free flows that it was operating via Iraq, as also analysed in my latest book on the global oil markets. Given the potentially sanctions-busting nature of the project, though, the U.S. included the prevention of this Iran-Oman LNG project in its efforts to stop Iran from expanding its hydrocarbons export routes into the booming market of Asia. Before the Saudi Arabia-led blockade of Qatar erupted in 2017, the U.S. offered an alternative for Oman, which was that it increased its uptake of gas from Qatar. This would come via the Dolphin Pipeline running from Qatar to Oman through the UAE, or in LNG form, but Oman refused. Omans desire to re-energise the plans for the Iran-Oman gas pipeline was also fanned at that time by the UAEs demands for an increasingly large fee for allowing the transit of gas from Iran through its waters, again part of the U.S. strategy to persuade Oman to take its gas from Qatar.

Following the recent China-brokered resumption of relationship deal between Iran and Saudi Arabia, as also analysed in my latest book, the UAEs willingness to be utilised by the U.S. in its fight against this planned new network of pipelines appears to have evaporated. As highlighted by OilPrice.com in May, a major new gas pipeline being planned will run along a 2,000-kilometre corridor via Oman - and the UAE - through the Arabian Sea and into India. This will allow gas to be gathered in from Oman and the UAE themselves, and from Iran, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Turkmenistan. These countries together have, by very conservative estimates, just under 2,895 trillion cubic feet (tcf) of gas reserves - Iran 1200 tcf, Qatar 858 tcf, Saudi Arabia 333 tcf, Turkmenistan 265 tcf, UAE 215 tcf, and Oman 24 tcf. Critically as well, although there will be one major pipeline running from the Middle East to India in the first instance, several other extensions of this pipeline plan are readily available. As also analysed in full in my new book, finished plans for an Iran-India pipeline and an Iran-Pakistan pipeline  both of which could be extended to China  have long been in place.

This said, it was the US$8.5 billion 230,000-bpd Duqm refinery project  and ancillary projects (another US$10 billion or so)  in which China first saw the best route to win favour in Oman, and thereby seek to establish control over key regional oil transport routes. The problem Oman encountered in the mammoth Duqm undertaking was that building up a petrochemicals presence, as the project is intended to do, requires a lot of upfront spending ahead of being able to generate returns further down the line, and this left a massive gap in its finances. Already accounting for around 90 percent of Omans oil exports and most of its petrochemicals exports to that point, China was quick to leverage this to sign a US$10 billion investment in the Duqm refinery project - just after the implementation of the nuclear deal with Iran at the beginning of 2016, in fact. The focus of this Chinese money initially was on completing the Duqm refinery, but it was also expanded to include financing for a product export terminal in Duqm Port and the Duqm refinery-dedicated crude storage tanks of the Ras Markaz Oil Storage Park. More Chinese money was also funnelled towards the construction and building out of an 11.72 square kilometre industrial park in Duqm in three areas - heavy industrial, light industrial, and mixed-use.

According to the plans, all of which will be ready within the next five or so years, in the light industrial zone there will be 12 projects, including the production of 1 gigawatt (GW) of solar power units, and of oil and gas tools, pipelines and drilling equipment. The mixed-use sector will focus on projects designed for the tourist trade, including the construction of a US$150 million hotel on a 10-hectare area, US$100 million to build a hospital, and US$15 million towards a school. The heavy industry sector will also see 12 projects, dealing with the production of commercial concrete, building materials and related industries, production of glazed glass, methanol and other chemicals. In addition, the site will cater for steel smelting, aluminium production, production of vehicle tires, building materials for protection against water and corrosion, extracting magnesium from seawater, and various chemical-aromatic projects.

As it now stands, the Duqm refinery will soon function alongside the US$4.6 billion Liwa Plastics Project (LPP) industrial complex, also near the Oman Oil Refineries and Petroleum Industries Companys Sohar refinery in the Special Economic Zone at Duqm. The final part of Omans vision of building an Omani integrated refining and petrochemical business, is the 290-kilometer-long Muscat Sohar Product Pipeline for transporting refined products. The US$336 million pipeline connects the refineries of Mina Al Fahal and Sohar to an intermediate distribution and storage facility at Al Jifnain. Split into three sections - 45 kilometres between the Mina Al Fahal and Al Jifnain Terminal, 220 kilometres between the Sohar and Jifnain Terminal, and 25 kilometres between the Al Jifnain Terminal and Muscat International Airport  the project is integral to the delivery of more than 50 percent of Omans fuel via the state-of-the-art storage facility in Al Jifnain. For China and Iran, all these facilities will be extremely useful in their day-to-day business. But incalculably more useful in multiple ways will be the fact that they have secured control over this vital global strategic hub of Oman.

By Simon Watkins for Oilprice.com

More Top Reads From Oilprice.com:
U.S. House Speaker Kevin McCarthy has revealed he plans to promote U.S. natural gas exports at an upcoming G7 meeting. McCarthy will frame his agenda in the context of Europe buying more U.S. gas as a way for the continent to wean itself off Russian gas following its war in Ukraine.

If we just replace Russian natural gas with American in Europe alone for one year, we would lower 218 billion tons of CO2 emissions because our natural gas is cleaner. America would be economically stronger, our prices would be lower and the world would be safer, McCarthy said on Fox Newss Sunday Morning Futures.

Earlier in the current year, U.S. secretary of State Antony Blinken revealed that they had discussed with EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell regarding the U.S. and the EU's unprecedented cooperation on energy security.

"We share our commitment to prevent a climate catastrophe through accelerating the global clean energy transition, building resilient, secure and diversified supply chains for renewable energy, and doing it in a way that creates good paying jobs and lowers costs for people on both sides of the Atlantic," Blinken said.

Last year, U.S. LNG exports to Europe jumped 140%Y/Y to 56 billion cubic meters (bcm) as Europe ditched Russian gas. Also, for the first time ever, U.S. LNG exports exceeded pipeline exports of natural gas on an annual basis.

LNG Deals

U.S. companies have continued striking long-term deals to supply vital gas to their European and overseas customers. Recently, the countrys largest producer of LNG, Cheniere Energy (NYSE:LNG), entered a long-term liquefied natural gas sale and purchase agreement with Equinor ASA (NYSE:EQNR) that will see the Norwegian national oil company purchase 1.75M metric tons/year of LNG on a free-on-board basis for a purchase price indexed to the Henry Hub price, for a 15-year term.

Related:

Last month, Cheniere signed another long-term liquefied natural gas (LNG) sale and purchase agreement with Chinas ENN Energy Holdings. ENN will purchase ~1.8M metric tons/year of LNG on a free-on-board basis at Henry Hub prices for a 20-year term, with deliveries to commence mid-2026 ramping up to 0.9 million tonne per annum (mtpa) in 2027.

The deal is subject to the completion of Chenieres Sabine Pass project, which is being developed to include up to three liquefaction trains with an expected total production capacity of ~20M tons/year of LNG.

Currently, Sabine Pass has six fully operational liquefaction units aka ?trains, each capable of producing ~5 mtpa of LNG for an aggregate nominal production capacity of ~30 mtpa. Cheniere processes more than 4.7 billion cubic feet per day of natural gas into LNG. Sabine Pass has multiple pipeline connections to interstate and intrastate pipelines and is located less than four nautical miles from the Gulf of Mexico thus providing easy access to seafaring vessels.

Last year, ENN signed a 13-year deal with Cheniere to purchase 900K metric tons/year, again based on Henry Hub prices.

High Gas Prices

Interestingly, both European and U.S. benchmark natural gas prices have been rising despite Europes gas stores being nearly full.

Front-month futures at the Dutch TTF hub, the benchmark for Europes gas trading, had increased by 10% to 38.27 euros per megawatt (MWh) as of 1330 hrs ET on Monday. TTF prices have now risen 45.6% over the past 30 days despite increasingly bearish inventory dynamics. According to Gas Infrastructure Europe (GIE) data, EU gas inventories stood at 103.84 billion cubic meters (bcm) on 13 August, up 19.25 bcmY/Y and 17.86bcm above the five-year average. Europeas gas stores are now 89.5% full, a level they took 57 more days to reach last year. The pace of refill continues being torrid, with the build over the past week clocking in at 2.56 bcm, the fastest in any seven-day period since late-May. EU gas inventories are currently just 5.59 bcm below last years high; a mere 8.64bcm below the all-time high and just 12.25bcm below the GIE estimate of full capacity.

ADVERTISEMENT

It will be interesting to see how gas markets react when Europes gas stores are finally full.

Luckily for the oil bulls, the oil price outlook is brighter. Commodity analysts at Standard Chartered have predicted large inventory draws peaking at 2.9 mb/d in August. StanChart estimates that June demand was about 0.5 mb/d below August 2019s all-time high, but expects the record will be exceeded in the current month. According to the analysts, highly effective producer output restraint, led by Saudi Arabia, will create the conditions for a price rally that will take Brent prices above this year high at $89.09/bbl onto their Q4-average forecast at $93/bbl, with a likely intra-quarter high above $100/bbl.

By Alex Kimani for Oilprice.com

More Top Reads From Oilprice.com:
Ecuador, once an island of peace in the strife-torn Northern Andean region of South America, is caught in the midst of drug-fueled violence, which is exacerbating a long-running political crisis. In an unprecedented event, presidential candidate Fernando Villavicencio was shot down by a Colombian gunman when leaving an August 2023 campaign rally. That occurred after government officials and local politicians were attacked and even murdered over the last year by gangs battling to control Ecuadors booming cocaine trade. A confluence of events, including being sandwiched between the worlds largest cocaine producers, Colombia and Peru, along with a deep political and economic crisis, saw Ecuador emerge as a crucial international transshipment point for the narcotic. There are indications of further instability and violence for the once peaceful Andean nation.

Ecuadors presidential election went ahead on Sunday, August 27, 2023, under tight security after rightwing President Guillermo Lasso declared a state of emergency in the wake of Villavicencios assassination. Rightwing pro-business Lasso, during his term, has struggled to enact any meaningful and urgently needed economic reforms, with the leftist-dominated National Assembly blocking any attempts to reduce spending and debt at every turn. The legislative body was dissolved by Lasso in May 2023 so as to avoid impeachment on accusations of embezzlement, triggering a general election. Leading leftist candidate and one-time lawmaker Luisa Gonzalez, a protege of former President Rafael Correa who was sentenced to eight years imprisonment for corruption in 2020, has emerged as the front runner. After a close vote, there will be an October 2023 run-off between Gonzalez and center-right businessman Daniel Noboa to decide who will rule Ecuador until May 2025, which is the remaining part of Lassos four-year term.

Gonzalez is campaigning on a traditional leftist platform, mirroring that of her mentor Correa, with a focus on increased spending for social programs and public infrastructure to reduce poverty. That, in conjunction with a crackdown on corruption, forms the primary elements of her plans to resurrect Ecuadors economy and tackle rising violence by reducing poverty. Noboa, on the other hand, plans to provide financial incentives, such as tax breaks, to attract greater business investment to restart a stalled economy and solve spiraling crime by deploying Ecuadors military alongside the police, a strategy used in neighboring Colombia. The outcome of this election will be important for a country grappling with a weak economy and struggling to contain escalating violence driven by cocaine trafficking. Nevertheless, the victorious candidate will only have a short time to implement policies, a mere one and a half years, making it almost impossible to effect meaningful change that can effectively tackle Ecuadors economic, political and security dilemmas.

There is considerable conjecturer as to how Ecuador emerged as a crucial staging point for cocaine shipments to the U.S. and Europe. Firstly, it is all about location, with Ecuador sandwiched between the worlds largest cocaine producers, Colombia, a lawless country locked in a decades-long multiparty low-level asymmetric conflict, and Peru. The Andean countrys ports and export-reliant economy, where petroleum, shrimp and banana are the top exports, provide a convenient method for shipping concealed loads of cocaine to key markets in North America, Europe and Oceania. Years of political crisis, which intensified after Correa left office, a flailing economy along with a weak, fiscally drained state, and endemic corruption all provided fertile ground for organized crime to gain a solid foothold in Ecuador.

Another key reason is the 2017 demobilization of the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC  Spanish initials). The leftist guerillas, up until the 2016 peace accord, controlled vast sections of Ecuadors porous northern border, particularly in the northern provinces of Esmeraldas and Sucumbios, which are the primary entry points for coca paste, cocaine and other illicit goods. Indeed, a major trafficking route operates between Colombias Pacific port of Tumaco, a long coca-cultivating hotspot, and Ecuadors remote northern town of San Lorenzo in Esmeraldas province. The FARC regulated much of the cocaine trafficking in Ecuadors northern border region, which has long been a hotbed of conflict, illicit activity and smuggling.

At times, various elements of the FARC, including senior leaders, sought refuge in northern Ecuador, which exasperated Colombia. Quito, for years, especially during Correas term in office from 2007 to 2017, maintained an uneasy but stable relationship with the leftist guerillas. That association allowed Ecuador to avoid direct conflict with the FARC, which, even during the 2010s, when their strength was waning and were incapable of securing a major battlefield victory, still had an estimated 14,000 armed combatants. This uneasy truce ended when the 2016 peace agreement was ratified by Colombias Congress on December 1, 2016, and the FARC started demobilizing, which was completed on August 15, 2017.

The FARCs demobilization created a power vacuum in many parts of rural Colombia, particularly in the south along Ecuadors northern border. This triggered a rush by smaller illegal bands to fill the void left by what had been the largest guerilla movement in South America. Competition for control of Colombias coca-cultivating hotspots in the southern departments of Narino and Putumayo and lucrative smuggling routes along Ecuadors northern border departments of Esmeraldas and Sucumbios saw a sharp rise in violence.

There are frequent clashes in the region between bands of FARC dissidents, those guerrillas who refused to accept the 2016 peace treaty, paramilitary groups and the National Liberation Army (ELN  Spanish initials) as they scramble to gain control of coca fields, cocaine laboratories and smuggling routes. Those illegal groups finance their activities by participating in various parts of the cocaine supply chain, including processing coca leaves, converting coca paste into cocaine and smuggling the narcotic to key markets.

Colombia and Perus soaring cocaine production, which hit another all-time high in 2021, and record interdictions by authorities are responsible for the massive surge in the volume of coca paste and cocaine flowing into Ecuador. In fact, the Andean country is now such an important transshipment point that it is believed more cocaine flows through Ecuador than any other country in the world. It is estimated up to 800 tons of the narcotic passes through the country annually for shipment to primarily the U.S. and Western Europe.

Ecuadors importance as a staging point for cocaine shipments to Europe, which is the second largest market for the narcotic globally, is underscored by the European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction (EMCDDA), claiming Ecuador is the largest exporter of cocaine to Europe. The agencys director in February 2023 said: Most of the cocaine shipped to Antwerp comes from Colombia, via the port of Guayaquil in Ecuador. The agencys statements are supported by a record August 2023 seizure in Spain of 9.5 tons of cocaine concealed in a banana shipment from Ecuador.

Ecuadors considerable importance as a cocaine transshipment hub motivated various criminal organizations, including European crime groups and Mexican cartels, to establish a strategic position in the country. This was achieved by making alliances with local prisons and street gangs. This is further fueling the violence sweeping across Ecuador, with those criminal groups resorting to bribery, extortion and even the murder of public officials to conduct their illegal activities. Tragically, Ecuadors homicide rate is spiraling out of control at a terrifying pace, soaring almost fivefold between 2018 and 2022 to 25.9 murders per 100,000 inhabitants. This ranks Ecuador as the third most violent country in South America, behind Colombia in second place with 26.1 homicides and Venezuela ranking first with 40.4 murders per 100,000 inhabitants.

Government officials, including police and prosecutors, politicians and elected representatives, are being targeted by the gangs vying for control of Ecuadors lucrative cocaine trade. This has not only led to heightened institutional corruption, which Villavicencio was known for rooting out, but also a litany of assassinations and attempted murders of public officials. These included the assassination of the Mayor of coastal resort town Manta, a state prosecutor in a town near Guayaquil, the city at the heart of the violence, and the organizer for presidential candidate Gonzalezs Citizens Revolution party.

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Whoever wins the October 2023 presidential run-off is facing an extremely challenging term in office with little time to develop and implement effective policy. Ecuador is gripped by a deep political and economic crisis that shows no sign of easing any time soon. That predicament, coupled with the fallout from the 2020 pandemic, was responsible for weakening an already frail state to the point where organized crime not only established a solid foothold but is coopting and even challenging the government. Quitos extreme indebtedness, coupled with strained finances, makes it near impossible for the next president to significantly bolster spending to tackle Ecuadors security crisis. If the victorious candidate funds additional spending by slashing costly fuel and other subsidies, existing simmering civil dissent will likely flare into widespread anti-government protests once again.

By Matthew Smith for Oilprice.com

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The head of the country which comprises NATO's second largest military is planning a trip to Russia to meet with President Vladimir Putin.

Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan made the announcement Monday, and teased potential progress for reestablishing the critical Black Sea grain deal, despite ongoing international tensions over Russia bombing Ukraine ports, which has been strongly condemned by the West.

"President Erdo?an has so far led an intense diplomacy in order to help prevent a global food crisis," ruling Justice and Development Party (AK Party) spokesman Omer Celik said in announcing the upcoming trip,

The meeting will be held as soon as next week, with Bloomberg reporting a date of Sept.8 - prior to Erdogan going on to India for the G20. The Turks as well as Russian media confirmed it will be hosted in Sochi. But it could happen early next week, with TASS mentioning September 4 as a possible date, citing diplomatic sources.

"Turkish news reports said Erdogan planned to bring up the issue of renewing the grain deal during the potential talks with his Russian counterpart," TASS wrote. "Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov previously said that the meeting between the two leaders would take place shortly, but he did not name any specific dates."

Since the Black Sea Grain Deal Initiative expired on July 17, and as Moscow pulled out (by not renewing it), global food prices have risen. Meanwhile Ukraine has with Western backing sought to establish an alternate export route by using the maritime territory of Romania and Bulgaria.

Within NATO, Erdogan has not been as vociferous in condemning the Russian invasion of Ukraine compared to other leaders, instead playing more of an intermediary role, keeping diplomacy open. Prior to its collapse, Turkey touted the grain deal as its greatest achievement toward peace and dialogue related to the Ukraine war.

The West will be watching Erdogan's actions closely, and likely some officials will condemn the Turkish leader's trip to Russia outright, after China's Xi was recently another major leader to visit Russia during the war.

By Zerohedge.com

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Brazils state energy major Petrobras has inked a strategic cooperation deal with Chinas state oil major CNOOC.

The deal, Reuters reports, citing a China-backed outlet, would focus on refining and chemical engineering, but also oilfield services and low-carbon energy projects.

The Chinese company, which almost exclusively focuses on overseas projects, already has a modest presence in Brazil, Reuters notes, with a minority stake in the Buzios fieldone of the promising new developments in Brazils presalt offshore zone.

The Buzios field, operated by Petrobras, was discovered in 2010 and production began eight years later.

CNOOC recently reported an 11% decline in its net profit for the first half of the year as, like everyone else in the industry, it suffered the consequences of lower oil prices.

In the first half of 2023, macroeconomy stayed complex and volatile, while international oil prices saw fluctuations in a downward trend, CNOOCs chairman Wang Dongjin said in a statement to shareholders.

At the same time, CNOOC boasted production growth both at home and overseas during the first half of the year, with daily net production reaching an all-time high. The company plans to book a record-high daily production for the full year as well, at 650 to 660 million barrels of oil equivalent daily.

Petrobras saw a much steeper drop in profits for the first half, at almost 33%. Yet it was the company with the third-highest profits for the period on a global scale, booking a net result of $13.17 billion, after only Aramco and Exxon, the Rio Times reported earlier this month.

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Also earlier in August, media reported that the Brazilian state energy major was looking for opportunities to expand overseas in the upstream segment. The expansion would take the form of acquisitions, the chief financial officer of the company, Sergio Caetano Leite, told Bloomberg.

By Charles Kennedy for Oilprice.com

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Italys Eni and Spains Repsol, two major European oil and gas firms, are looking to expand their oil deals with Venezuela with U.S. consent, Reuters reported on Tuesday, quoting sources familiar with the matter.

A potential further U.S. exemption for Eni and Repsol could give the companies access to oil swap deals, which could increase fuel deliveries to Venezuelas state oil firm PDVSA in exchange for Venezuelan crude to be shipped to Europe.

Under the current sanctions regime, direct payments to PDVSA are not allowed, so companies have sought authorization to offtake some crude from Venezuela as a form of payment for their receivable debts.

Last year, Eni and Repsol were allowed to ship some Venezuelan crude to process at European refineries in order to recover debts and dividends owed to them by Venezuela for their joint ventures in the country holding the worlds largest oil reserves.

Under new terms of oil-for-debt deals, Eni and Repsol could now be authorized to export fuels such as naphtha to Venezuela, according to Reuters sources.

The Biden Administration has signaled it could be open to additional special authorizations for oil companies in Venezuela as it seeks to limit the fallout of a tight global supply on U.S. gasoline prices.

The first opening of the Biden Administration to Venezuela occurred at the end of last year when it eased the sanctions to allow Chevron to resume its work in Venezuela and export the crude when access to Russian heavy crude was shut off by the sanctions on Russia over its invasion of Ukraine.

Now there could be an opening in the U.S. Administration to allow more companies  other than Chevron  to export crude oil from Venezuela.

Federal government officials in Washington are reportedly working on a draft proposal for sanctions relief to be offered to Venezuela if it organizes free and fair presidential elections.

The pitch focuses on letting more companies buy Venezuelan crude, Reuters reported last week, citing unnamed sources.

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By Charles Kennedy for Oilprice.com

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Workers at Chevrons LNG projects in Australia are set to go on strike from September 7th after the company and the representatives of its workers failed to reach an agreement on worker demands.

Workers at the downstream section of the Gorgon and Wheatstone LNG projects plan to stop work for seven hours on September 7, rising to 10 hours on the next day, and 11 hours on September 9, Reuters reported today, citing a document from the trade unions representing the workers.

Workers on the Wheatstone offshore platform plan shorter work stoppages of three hours daily beginning from September 7.

The Gorgon and Wheatstone projects together account for about 5% of global LNG production, which means that any disruption of regular operations at these projects would add upside potential to gas prices.

European gas prices already reacted with another increase to the news that Chevron is failing to reach an agreement with the worker unions. The increase was modest, at 1.9% for European prices and U.S. prices inched up by 2.6%. However, if strikes begin, there are likely to be more substantial price climbs.

The worker unions have warned Chevron that industrial action would cost it billions of dollars.

"Their stupidity is about to cost them billions in lost production and profit," the Offshore Alliance, a group of trade unions, wrote on its Facebook page last week.

Today, the group wrote that "Members will be participating in rolling stoppages, bans and limitations which will escalate each week until Chevron agrees to our bargaining claim."

The group then added that the strike is "set to cost Chevron their LNG exports as (the industrial action) starts to bite."

Woodside, the operator of Australias largest LNG project the North West Shelf, also risked a strike but managed to negotiate a peace with its workers.

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By Irina Slav for Oilprice.com

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Dignitaries arriving through the controlled access gates at Papillion's data center were greeted by the sight of cranes and other heavy construction equipment last week.

Google gathered community leaders, politicians and journalists together to announce it was investing $1.2 billion in its Nebraska operations this year, including building a new data center in Lincoln.

Earlier this month, Google announced an additional $350 million into the company's data center in Council Bluffs, which is among Google's largest facilities in the world and came over a decade before construction on the Papillion data center. The pair of announcements further cement the broader region encompassing Council Bluffs, Omaha, Papillion and now Lincoln as a hub for data center development.

"If you think of Omaha and Lincoln of a single combined metro area, Papillion is literally in the middle of it," Papillion Mayor David Black said. "I think that's why you're seeing a lot of the growth that we're seeing."

Fueling Google's investments are growth in artificial intelligence and cloud computing, including many of the company's core services, such as Google search, Gmail, YouTube and the apps behind its Android mobile phone ecosystem.

"I am just really grateful to be able to welcome the data center expansion that's happening here in Nebraska," U.S. Sen. Deb Fischer said. "As we all know, these data centers are extremely critical to the internet and cloud services that power our economy, and our state offers the critical resources that are necessary to support that innovation. There's a reason that Nebraska is a big part of that rapidly growing Midwest innovation hub."

Fischer referred to the region as the Silicon Prairie, offering the mix of a central location nationally, skilled workers, available land, water resources and electricity rates that drive the data center industry.

"A lot of people think, you know, it's the middle of the country, some think it's the middle of nowhere. I prefer to think that Nebraska is the center of the cosmos, and I am really, really happy that Google does as well," Fischer said.

Allie Hopkins, Google's head of data centers for Iowa and Nebraska, said the company was not splitting out its investment into each Nebraska community, calling the $1.2 billion figure "all one big happy number," but she said the Lincoln data center would cost about $600,000 by the time it goes live and is "a little bit of a longer-term investment."

Asked by the Times if she anticipated yet further expansion of the Nebraska data center sites, Hopkins said those decisions would be driven by business.

"We'll see what tomorrow brings," Hopkins said. "We're definitely here for the long term, that's for sure, but what does that mean as far as infrastructure expansion? That's time will tell."

Hopkins said site selection is a "really rigorous process," where certain distances are optimal among data center sites to balance redundancy and latency, which is the delay for information to traverse a communications network.

Black noted that Google had added a building to its data center in Papillion every year since it opened, while also making inroads by giving back within greater Papillion.

"What I really appreciate about Google is how invested they are in the local community," Black said. "They're really good at supporting our not-for-profits, our schools."

Growth also adds jobs for area workers. Among the new Lincoln, Papillion and northwest Omaha data centers, Google has created more than 120 jobs in a variety of full time and external supplier roles. In Council Bluffs, the company employs more than 900, including Sarpy County residents.

"This region is just so incredible," Black said.

Black said that having investments from Google in nonprofits and chambers of commerce helps to increase entrepreneurship  something Google invested in directly in southwest Iowa  and that, in turn, creates local small businesses and yet more indirect job growth.

"We're getting a lot of businesses that are starting up for the first time," Black said. "And then they're seeing success. The next thing, they're buying a building, and so you see the whole lifecycle of business."

Hopkins said Google has estimates that the company generated $4.34 billion in economic activity within the state of Nebraska in 2022. She also noted the company's investments in Omaha's new central library as well partnerships with Seventy Five North and The Empowerment Network in the North Omaha community.

"It's all based on connectivity, and not just in the digital sense," Hopkins said.

U.S. Rep. Mike Flood, whose 1st Congressional District includes Papillion and Lincoln, said the "magic" of Sarpy County's leaders and chambers "have really paved the way for investments" such as Google's additional $1.2 billion.

"At the end of the day, I think what we have to really focus on with this investment is that these are going to create good jobs that connect Nebraskans to the rest of the world," Flood said.

Flood said there's a reason U.S. Strategic Command is located at Offutt Air Force Base, also in his 1st District.

"We have the hardest working most loyal, honest, trustworthy people with integrity that are trusted with our nation's nuclear triad," Flood said. "Today, you demonstrate that trust by putting such critical infrastructure right here in the city of Papillion."

Omaha Mayor Jean Stothert said in a release that technology is an important sector for the local economy.

"Growth in technology innovation and customer demand provide great opportunities for Omaha and Nebraska to provide a qualified workforce and infrastructure for Google," Stothert said.

Lincoln's mayor, Leirion Gaylor Baird, praised the company's investment as well.

Googles decision to locate in Lincoln is a result of the strong business climate we have built through community partnerships and investments in infrastructure and workforce development, Gaylor Baird said.

The Omaha Public Power District has cited growing demand  including from data centers such as Google's new construction  as the reason for deciding to invest $2 billion to nearly double its generating capacity. About two-thirds of the demand comes from data centers.

Google says its data centers are among the most efficient in the world, and it is aiming to run entirely on carbon-free energy 24/7/365 by 2030, including its Papillion data center. Last year, the company self-reported its energy use in Nebraska as 87% carbon-free.
JAKARTA, Aug. 29 (Xinhua) -- A 6.1-magnitude earthquake rocked Indonesia's eastern province of Maluku on Tuesday without causing a tsunami, the country's meteorology, climatology and geophysics agency said.

The agency had first released the earthquake at 6.4 Richter scale before revising it.

The quake occurred at 11:34 a.m. Jakarta time (0434 GMT), with its epicenter at 279 km southeast of Maluku Tengah (Central Maluku) district and a depth of 221 km under the seabed, the agency said.

The agency did not issue a tsunami warning as the quake's tremors did not potentially trigger giant waves.

The jolts were also felt in Sorong City, the capital of the nearby province of West Papua, it added.

However, there were no initial reports of damages or casualties after the powerful quake, said Sandhy Luhulima, head of the emergency unit of the disaster management and mitigation agency in Maluku province.

"The shakes of the quake were felt significantly in the Maluku Tengah (Central Maluku) district, but they did not leave damages or casualties so far," he told Xinhua via phone. 
A Papillion man accused of killing his estranged wife Saturday night was ordered to be held without bail during his first court appearance Tuesday.

The decision from Sarpy County District Court Judge S. Colin Palm came after prosecutor Thomas Gross requested that Walter Alexander, 47, be held without bail. Alexander is accused of killing his estranged wife, 32-year-old Brittney Alexander, and a subsequent attempt to avoid arrest. Walter Alexander faces charges of first-degree murder, use of a firearm to commit a felony and operating a motor vehicle to avoid arrest.

Police said Alexander fatally shot Brittney in her home at 735 Madison St. Around 6:15 p.m., police responded to the residence on a report of domestic violence. Police found Brittney suffering from a gunshot wound and saw a 2012 Mercedes-Benz sedan leaving the scene.

Papillion police followed the vehicle and were able to arrest Alexander near 84th and Harrison Streets with the assistance of the La Vista Police Department. Papillion Police Chief Chris Whitted previously said that Alexander was driving erratically and that his vehicle stopped after becoming high-centered on the median. He was taken into custody without incident.

An affidavit pertaining to the incident has been sealed.

In court, Gross argued that Alexander would be a flight risk since he has ties to Massachusetts.

John Hascall, deputy public defender, did not object to the lack of bail for Alexander. Hascall said Alexander does not have the finances to post bail.

Alexander is scheduled to appear in court for a preliminary hearing on Oct. 16.
Traffic is flowing again through the University of Nebraska Medical Center following repairs to a broken water main at 42nd and Harney Streets three weeks ago.

The rupture to the 16-inch pipe had forced the closure of 42nd Street between Farnam Street and Dewey Avenue ever since it occurred on the evening of Aug. 7.

UNMC closed the Clarkson Doctors Building South, a medical office building one block west of the break, for nearly a week following the break. The closure also shut off the main north-south route through the campus, complicating access to Clarkson Tower and the clinics on Leavenworth Street from Dodge Street.

The rupture was caused by corrosion and ground-movement stress, from nearby infrastructure, said Jessica Heidebrecht, a Metropolitan Utilities District spokeswoman, in a statement Tuesday.

She said that section of pipe was replaced, as well as an adjacent section in which workers discovered another small leak.

Next spring, Heidebrecht said in the statement, MUD, the city and UNMC will coordinate to fully rehabilitate the water main from Farnam to Leavenworth. That move, she said, will strengthen the main, allowing for greater reliability through this busy corridor.

City traffic engineers had initially forecast that road and utility repairs at the intersection would take a full month, until Sept. 8. The project wrapped up sooner.

We got in there and worked as fast and as hard as we could and got the job done, said Scott Musgrove of Omaha Public Works traffic engineering section.

Taylor Wilson, a spokesman for Nebraska Medicine, expressed gratitude to the city for getting the intersection opened earlier than planned.

Having a main artery through campus again available for patients and staff is a big help for everyone who regularly travels the streets surrounding the med center, he said in a statement.

It was the second water-main break at the same intersection in 10 months. A broken pipe Oct. 22, 2022, shut down 42nd and Harney for about two weeks. And earlier this summer, 42nd Street was closed south of Leavenworth because of a separate water-main break.

Plenty of road construction still continues in and around the UNMC campus.

Southbound traffic has been shifted to the center lane at 42nd and Dewey due to sidewalk replacement, until Sept. 5.

The southbound lanes are closed and traffic is restricted to one lane in each direction on Saddle Creek Road between Emile and Leavenworth Streets due to utility work, until Sept. 6.

Leavenworth Street is restricted to one lane westbound between Saddle Creek Road and South 49th Street due to utility work, until Sept. 24.

South 48th Street is closed between Leavenworth and Howard Streets due to utility work, until Sept. 5.

Farnam Street is closed between Saddle Creek and South 48th for street improvements related to construction of UNMCs Saddle Creek campus, until the end of the year.

Harney Street is restricted to one lane eastbound between South 38th Avenue and South 38th Street because of building construction, until Sept. 13.

Our best Omaha staff photos & videos of August 2023
Idalia has strengthened from a tropical storm and is now a hurricane, moving through the Gulf of Mexico toward Florida. Forecasters believe it will become a dangerous Category 3 storm.

The four meteorologists from Lee Enterprises' weather team  Matt Holiner of Lee Enterprises' Midwest group in Chicago, Kirsten Lang of the Tulsa World in Oklahoma, Joe Martucci of the Press of Atlantic City, N.J., and Sean Sublette of the Richmond Times-Dispatch in Virginia  host a weekly podcast called Across the Sky.

Since launching the program more than a year ago, the team has tackled a variety of topics covering all things hurricanes. Below is a selection of individual episodes so you can learn more about the deadly storms, including a preview of this year's season, stories from hurricane hunters, episodes about recovering from weather disasters and even a look back at Superstorm Sandy.

Listen to the latest episode of the Across the Sky podcast

Previewing the 2023 Atlantic hurricane season

Stories from hurricane hunters

Preparing for and recovering from natural disasters

Understanding the ramifications of climate change and global warming

More information about superstorms and hurricanes
An inmate serving a life sentence for two counts of first-degree murder died Tuesday at the Nebraska prison in Tecumseh.

Decabooter Williams, 71, formerly of Omaha, began serving his sentence in June 2004. A spokeswoman for the Nebraska Department of Corrections said a cause of death has not been determined but Williams was being treated for a medical condition.

Williams was found guilty in Douglas County District Court for the deaths of Victoria Burgess, 52, and LaTisha Tolbert, 28, of Omaha. Prosecutors said Williams became enraged when Burgess accused him of stealing $200 from her.

Williams tried to borrow a gun from a neighbor. He then bought some gas, confronted Burgess and set her and her house ablaze, resulting in the deaths of the two women.

Prosecutors did not seek the death penalty, in part because relatives of Burgess and Tolbert did not want it.

Under state law, a grand jury conducts an investigation whenever someone dies while in custody of law enforcement.
BLOOMINGTON  A Bloomington man was sentenced Monday to three and a half years in prison after pleading guilty to domestic battery in a stabbing reported last year in Normal.

Zhane O.T. McGill, 25, pleaded guilty to aggravated domestic battery, a Class 2 felony, before Judge William Yoder. McGill was initially charged with attempted murder, a Class X felony, and two Class 3 aggravated battery felonies, one involving a deadly weapon and the other for causing bodily harm. Those offenses were dismissed.

Normal police previously said officers responded to a reported stabbing on July 29, 2022, in the 1000 block of Charlotte Drive, where they found a 27-year-old man with a stab wound, and bruising around his neck. The victim was treated at a local hospital and released.

He was sentenced Monday to three and half years in the Department of Corrections with credit for 320 days served, to be followed by four years of mandatory supervised release.

McGill's attorney William Gregory was not immediately available for comment Tuesday on the case outcome.

Pedestrian crash analysis shows that even at low speeds, accidents often cause severe injuries Pedestrian crash analysis shows that even at low speeds, accidents often cause severe injuries Chances of severe injury are high, even when driving at slow speeds Commercial vehicles are deadliest, but even sedans can kill Speeding still kills Methodology
BLOOMINGTON  A Chicago man is facing felony charges after prosecutors said he stole construction equipment last year from a Bloomington rental business.

Jacob T. Fernandez, 26, is in McLean County custody after he was indicted in February on charges of identity theft, theft and burglary.

According to charging documents, Fernandez is accused of using another person's identity to obtain a skid loader and trailer from a Bloomington rental agency on Oct. 3, 2022.

Judge Scott Kording upheld the bond amount from his February indictment at $100,000, with 10% to apply for release.

Updated mug shots from The Pantagraph Bryant Lewis Derek Roesch Justin M. Mata Marcus D. Wesley Phillip Tinch Trisha L. Hanke William B. Givens David L. Oliver Kenneth E. Funk Jordan R. King Holly M. Isaacson Kenneth L. Minton Tony L. Jackson Britley L. Hilger Jasmine L. Smith Jackie S. Claypool Noah R. Demuth Brandon L. Parsano Alexander N. Williams Carlos Sanchez-Solozarzano Jaylin S. Bones Jordan R. King Dominique M. Banks Austin T. Daugherty Sandra M. Lewis Samantha E. Morris Nolan C. Love Nikkita L. Sandefur Katlin M.B. Wilson Eli C. Garozzo Tysean T. Townsend Curtis J. Byrd Noral K. Nelson Charles J. Tankson Davis, Micah S Livingston, Joshua D. Kevin L. Ewen Emmanuel K. Mpay Ahmad S. Manns Dylan R Mann Tony L. Jackson William R. Linden Zadek U. Moen Zachary T. Willis Cecily M. Sexton Tonisha A. Jackson James A. McConnaughay Jessica M. Longberry Barry D. Guyton Keon E. Spiller Melina Aguilar Carlos D. Cregan Wayne M. Damron Terrance L. Ford Stanley M. Miller Darryl R. Vinson Jarvis K. Heads Wesley M. Noonan Brad Carter Brian K. Burnett Kenneth D. Downey Kenyon J. Bones Brittany N. Greiner
NORMAL  A teenage boy, who is suspected of killing a 21-year-old man Saturday at a Peoria liquor store, was taken into custody Monday night in Normal.

According to a statement from the Peoria County Sheriff's Office, detectives served a search warrant about 8 p.m. Monday at an apartment in the 100 block of West Willow Street in Normal, where they located the 17-year-old boy accused of killing Mason R. Loy of Havana. He was booked at the Peoria County Juvenile Detention on a first-degree murder charge.

Carol Lotz, records manager for the sheriff's office, said the suspect is a Peoria resident. No further information on why he was in Normal was immediately available.

Police have not released the boy's name.

The sheriff's office said police were dispatched at 9:09 p.m. Saturday to a report of a man shot in the parking lot at Laramie Liquors, 1841 S. Laramie Street in Peoria, where Loy was found with apparent gunshot wounds.

The Peoria County Coroner's Office said Loy was pronounced dead at 10:25 p.m. at the scene. Preliminary autopsy results found Loy had been shot several times and died instantly.

The shooting remains under investigation by the Peoria County Sheriff's Office. Anyone with additional information is asked to call Lt. Ben Johnston at 309-634-5111 or make an anonymous tip to Peoria County Crime Stoppers by calling 309-673-9000 or visiting peoriaareacrimestoppers.com.

The Normal Police Department and Illinois State Police SWAT team assisted with the arrest Monday.

Updated mug shots from The Pantagraph Bryant Lewis Derek Roesch Justin M. Mata Marcus D. Wesley Phillip Tinch Trisha L. Hanke William B. Givens David L. Oliver Kenneth E. Funk Jordan R. King Holly M. Isaacson Kenneth L. Minton Tony L. Jackson Britley L. Hilger Jasmine L. Smith Jackie S. Claypool Noah R. Demuth Brandon L. Parsano Alexander N. Williams Carlos Sanchez-Solozarzano Jaylin S. Bones Jordan R. King Dominique M. Banks Austin T. Daugherty Sandra M. Lewis Samantha E. Morris Nolan C. Love Nikkita L. Sandefur Katlin M.B. Wilson Eli C. Garozzo Tysean T. Townsend Curtis J. Byrd Noral K. Nelson Charles J. Tankson Davis, Micah S Livingston, Joshua D. Kevin L. Ewen Emmanuel K. Mpay Ahmad S. Manns Dylan R Mann Tony L. Jackson William R. Linden Zadek U. Moen Zachary T. Willis Cecily M. Sexton Tonisha A. Jackson James A. McConnaughay Jessica M. Longberry Barry D. Guyton Keon E. Spiller Melina Aguilar Carlos D. Cregan Wayne M. Damron Terrance L. Ford Stanley M. Miller Darryl R. Vinson Jarvis K. Heads Wesley M. Noonan Brad Carter Brian K. Burnett Kenneth D. Downey Kenyon J. Bones Brittany N. Greiner
BLOOMINGTON  The city of Bloomington is set to receive $5 million in Rebuild Illinois grant money from the Illinois Department of Transportation to help fund the half-mile extension of Hamilton Road from Bunn Street to Morrissey Drive.

The city council on Monday approved a motor fuel tax resolution stating that would be how the city will use the money as part of the grant process. Bloomington Public Works Director Kevin Kothe said that although the city has to submit applicable documentation to the state, the money already has been committed.

"Even though it's called grant funding, we know we're going to get this amount for the Rebuild Illinois money," Kothe said. "So what was in the resolution tonight is actually being obligated for the project and the state just wants this information for their records to show that we're accepting the money for this project."

This project is the final connection of a $14 million, 7.2-mile transportation corridor improvement on Hamilton and Fox Creek roads on the city's south side.

Kothe said he hopes to have the Hamilton Road project out to bid in the spring.

With the receipt of this money, Kothe said local motor fuel tax revenue that would have funded the project can be used for other projects, such as replacing Fox Creek Road bridge over the Union Pacific Railroad tracks and widening the street there from two lanes to four lanes. A 10-foot-wide multiuse trail also would accompany the Fox Creek project.

Other business

Several residents of the White Place Historic District spoke during public comment in opposition to plans for a nine-unit housing development in a large converted house at 1 White Place.

They called on the council evaluate the zoning requirements for such a project to be built.

The owner of the property is listed as Sun Down Express LLC with the registered agent listed as Yousuf Sayeed of Chicago.

Sun Down Express LLC also is listed as the owner of 805 E. Olive St., 407 W. Market St., 503 N. Lee St.

White Place resident Scott McCormick said safety should be paramount in a project like this. However, it is difficult to imagine how nine units could fit inside the property, he added.

"If you are in one of the four units on the second floor or attic, your only way out is one wooden staircase," McCormick said. "And if compromises are being made in fire safety, are they also happening in regards to structural integrity?"

In response to the public's remarks, Alderman John Danenberger recommended that the city council bring the issue of the site's zoning to its next meeting.

69 photos of Bloomington-Normal landmarks under construction NORMAL CONSTRUCTION NORMAL STREET 3 012004 Downtown Normal lac DRAG ON UPTOWN BIZ 3 SAS UPTOWN NORMAL 3 SAS UPTOWN ECONOMY SAS UPTOWN ROUNDABOUT 2 SAS UPTOWN ROUNDABOUT LEAD SAS 013107 Medici's Restaurant 1 lac 013107 Medici's Restaurant 2 lac 031507 Medici Tree 1 lac 031507 Medici Tree 2 lac 070307 Medici LAC 021408 Medici 3 lac 011008 Medici 4 lac Medici, Nov. 1, 2007 Cardinal Court Illinois State University campus Cardinal Court Cardinal Court Dedication DESTIHL DESTIHL-2 DESTIHL-3 DESTIHL-4 TCS DESTIHL BREW 3 SAS ISU Student Fitness Center ISU Student Fitness Center ISU Student Fitness EIU Baseball TERMINAL DELAY 1 SAS.JPG TERMINAL DELAY 2 SAS.JPG 030707 Beaufort Closed 1 lac MARRIOTT HOTEL 7 CTM 072808 Uptown Normal 2 lac OSF CONSTRUCT 3 SAS OSF CONSTRUCT 2 SAS OSF CONSTRUCT 1 SAS OSF CONSTRUCT file 2 SAS OSF CONSTRUCT file 3 SAS Hospital projects advance Advocate Outpatient Advocate Outpatient AR Multimodal Transportation Center TRANS CENTER UPDATE LEAD SAS MULTIMODAL CENTER GROUND BREAKING TRANSPORTATION CENTER UPDATE 3 SAS AR Multimodal Transportation Center Multimodal Transport Multimodal Transport Uptown Station 1 Uptown Station 8 Store closures 1 K's vacancy 2 032614-blm-biz-1hyvee Real Estate 3 Real Estate 2 BCPA BCPA Convergence Convergence Convergence BCPA KIDS 1 SAS BCPA AMES FILE 3 SAS.JPG IWU buildings to open in January AMES FILE 3 SAS (1).JPG PROGRESS COVER DAY TWO 1.JPG 082003 The Ames Library 3 lac View more galleries and slideshows
SPRINGFIELD  Illinois lawmakers sent a letter urging the White House to grant federal assistance for Central Illinois following severe summer weather.

U.S. Sens. Dick Durbin and Tammy Duckworth, along with every member of the Illinois Congressional Delegation, sent a letter to President Joe Biden on Tuesday urging the government to grant Gov. J.B. Pritzker's request for federal assistance from the Federal Emergency Management Agency and the Small Business Administration for the state.

We write in support of Illinois Governor JB Pritzkers request for federal assistance for the State of Illinois, to help 27 counties recover from storm damage that occurred from late June to early July, they wrote.

The federal assistance would help 27 counties across Central Illinois recover from storm damage caused from late June to early July, according to a statement from Durbin's office.

Severe storms that passed through Central Illinois included heavy rainfall, flash flooding, hail, tornadoes and straight-line winds, as well as five tornadoes with winds exceeding 100 miles per hour.

The aid would help the following counties: Adams, Calhoun, Christian, Clark, Coles, Cumberland, DeWitt, Douglas, Edgar, Greene, Hancock, Logan, Macon, Macoupin, McDonough, Monroe, Montgomery, Morgan, Moultrie, Piatt, Pike, Sangamon, Scott, St. Clair, Vermilion, Warren, and Washington.

A derecho yielding five tornadoes also passed through Central Illinois, with winds exceeding 100 miles per hour in several counties. This severe weather resulted in significant power outages and roadway interruptions due to flooding. Subsequent damage has impacted homeowners, businesses, and local governments, according to the letter. As such, the Governor seeks timely federal assistance from FEMA.

The full text of the letter is available online at durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases.

Photos: Storm damage in Decatur
How Time Flies is a daily feature looking back at Pantagraph archives to revisit what was happening in our community and region.

100 years ago

Aug. 29, 1923: Following a public hearing held by the board of local improvements, the city engineer was instructed to prepare plans and estimates for a brick pavement on Allin Street from Washington to the present width of the street. Practically all the property owners were in favor of the brick pavement, though only two were in favor of widening the street six feet, as suggested by the council.

75 years ago

Aug. 29, 1948: Up to four feet of silt now fills the old Money Creek channel in the bottom of Lake Bloomington, under 30 feet of water. That is one of the first observations in a lake siltation study conducted by the Illinois State Water Survey of Urbana cooperating with C.C. Williams, superintendent of the city water and light department.

50 years ago

Aug. 29, 1973: "Actions, not words," President Gene Budig told Illinois State University faculty, are the remedy for faculty morale. Budig touched on budget problems, academic planning, governance and the need to communicate the university's strengths to lawmakers and state officials in a 22-minute address on the state of the university.

25 years ago

Aug. 29, 1998: Unit 5 schools and State Farm Insurance Cos. may have changed their policies toward discrimination based on sexual orientation since the issued surfaced in the Twin Cities two years ago, but it doesn't appear the same has happened with Normal City Council members. A majority still remain opposed to creating a local ordinance that would prohibit discrimination based on sexual orientation.

101 years ago: See vintage Pantagraph ads from 1922 Gerthart's Union Gas and Electric Co. Hoover Dr. J.A. Moore Dentists Moberly & Klenner W.P. Garretson W.H. Roland Pease's Candy Thor 32 Electric Washing Machine The Kaiser's Story of the War Ike Livingston & Sons Gossard Corsets Cat'n Fiddle 'Stolen Moments' Case Model X The Johnson Transfer & Fuel Co. The Pantagraph want ads Franklin Motor Car Co. 'A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur's Court' Calumet Baking Powder Mayer Livingston & Co. Newsmarket 'The Emperor Jones' 'California Fig Syrup'
KABUL, Aug. 29 (Xinhua) -- Afghan police have arrested 18 persons on the charge of involvement in drug smuggling and seized a huge quantity of illicit drugs in latest operations in capital Kabul and seven provinces, a statement of the Ministry of Interior Affairs said Tuesday.

In the operations on Monday, the police seized 81 kg crystal, 1,190 kg yame (a plant grown in Afghanistan's mountainous areas that can be made into drugs), and materials and objects used in manufacturing heroin, in Kabul and the provinces of Kandahar, Nimroz, Laghman, Ghor, Nangarhar, Sari Pul and Herat.

In addition, Afghan security forces on Monday destroyed a drug lab in the central province of Uruzgan and detained a person, the provincial information and culture department said in a statement, adding that the police also discovered a large amount of materials used in manufacturing heroin from the site raided.

The Afghan caretaker government has vowed to fight against poppy cultivation and opium trade in the war-torn country. 
The 2023 edition of the Ghana Business Standard Awards was held last Friday at the Movenpick Ambassador Hotel in Accra.



The awards ceremony, which was on the theme Celebrating Organizations Committed to Remarkable Business Standards Geared towards Sustainable Growth in Ghana, is organized annually to celebrate organizations committed to remarkable business standards in their sectors and industry leaders breaking barriers of excellence across the Ghanaian business region.



Admission World Consult Limited, an educational consultancy company which is based in Accra with operations in Ghana and Nigeria won the category of the educational consultancy company of the year.



Responding to this achievement, the CEO and founder of Admission World, Mr Shadrack Otchere was grateful to the organizers of the event for the recognition. He stressed on the fact that it is very important as an individual to seek personal development via education. Education is and has always been that one thing no one can take away from you. When you are educated, you guide the next generation to enlightenment. There are now so many modern ways of doing things, it could be science, technology, media or even music.



"Studying abroad exposes you to these modern technological ways that help with your personal development and career advancement. Studying abroad is one of the best ways to acquire global skills and access personal and professional opportunities which would in turn build you up for helping you contribute to solving some of the challenges faced by your home country he opined.



He urged the government to invest in the promotion of Ghana as a study destination to attract other foreign students who may want to experience Ghanaian education and culture as they would in turn contribute to the economy of Ghana as international students have been contributing millions of dollars to western Economies.



The Director in charge of Student Recruitment and International relations of Admission World Consult, Ms. Harriet Alexandra Ofosu stressed on measures the company is putting in place to ensure the recent housing crises in Canada faced by international students do not affect students coming from Admission World Consult.



As a company and an education stakeholder, we are aware of the recent housing crisis in Canada and how some international students are struggling to find accommodation in Canada, especially in big cities of Ontario and British Columbia provinces. We as a company ensure that any student we place into institutions in Canada secures accommodation before their travel. We have partnerships with some real estate companies and also run a model where our already enrolled students assist in securing accommodation for incoming ones to ensure they do not face challenges upon their arrival.



Admission World Company Limited (AWCL) is an educational consultancy company based in Ghana with operations in Ghana and Nigeria. They are made up of professionals who have experienced foreign education and travels and possess as well the expertise, qualifications and experience to guide students who seek study route to achieve their dream careers.



Their expertise lies in helping students make informed decisions when it comes to choosing desired programs that best fits their educational or career trajectory. They take students through program selection, fee payment processes, and all other processes involved in acquiring their student visas for their studies; while ensuring their already enrolled students, partners and university officials assist with Airport pickups and Job acquisition.



Their mission is to ease students of all the complexities involved in gaining admission and visa to achieve their dream of studying in their desired destination.



They hope to become that household name when it comes to seeking professional advice for admissions and study visas and for safe travels abroad.

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 Technical University Teachers Association of Ghana (TUTAG) has backed the Bolgatanga Technical University (BTU) Chapter of TUTAG on its ongoing industrial action.



The groups claim the Vice-Chancellor of the University, Professor Samuel Alnaa, is seeking to vary portions of their retirement benefits against the approval by the Ministry of Finance. They also alleged ambiguities in the Technical Universities Act (2026), Act 922 as amended.



TUTAG in a press statement signed by the General Secretary, Dr Abubakari Zakari said that they therefore issue this solidarity statement in support of the ongoing strike action by the Bolgatanga Technical University Chapter of TUTAG, and warn that any attempt to victimise members of the above Chapter, especially the leadership, will incur the displeasure of the entire membership of the union across the length and breadth of the country.



Dr. Abubkari Zakari noted that the Act establishing Technical Universities in Ghana clearly acknowledged the continuous service of staff of the then polytechnics who smoothly went through transition processes as required by law to becoming staff of the newly established Technical Universities



He indicated that Section 42 (6) of the Technical Universities Act 2016 (Act 922) as amended stated that A person in the employment of a polytechnic in existence immediately before the coming into force of this Act, shall be deemed to have been duly employed by the respective Technical University established under this Act on the terms and conditions attached to the post held by that person before the coming into force of this Act.



It is therefore mind-boggling and absurd for any individual or group of individuals, who by virtue of accrued rights, are currently occupying positions of authority in the Technical Universities, to attempt to vary the conditions of service of staff of the universities, he added.



The BTU branch of TUTAG and the Technical University Senior Administrators Association of Ghana (TUSAAG) declared an industrial action on August 25, 2023.





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Source: Prince Baffour Asamoah/Peace FM Newsroom









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France's ambassador has remained in Niger despite being given a 48-hour deadline to leave the country last Friday, French President Emmanuel Macron confirmed in a defiant speech.



Ambassador Sylvain Itte had been ordered to go amid rapidly deteriorating bilateral ties.



But hours after the coup leaders' deadline had passed, the president said he "applauds" Mr Itte for staying put.



The junta overthrew Niger's elected president last month.



In a major foreign policy speech to ambassadors gathered in Paris as well as others listening remotely, Mr Macron said: "France and its diplomats have faced particularly difficult situations in some countries in recent months, from Sudan, where France has been exemplary, to Niger at this very moment.



"I applaud your colleague and your colleagues who are listening from their posts."



Niger's President Mohamed Bazoum was toppled on 26 July in a coup that has been condemned by France and many of Niger's neighbours, including the West African regional bloc Ecowas.



Ambassador Itte had refused to meet Niger's new leaders after the coup, the junta said on Friday, as it announced the French ambassador had 48 hours to leave.



Some held signs demanding the departure of French troops, while footage posted on social media appears to show local Muslim imams leading prayers outside the base.



In Monday's speech, Mr Macron defended France's military presence in Niger, stating that without intervention from Paris, the country would "no longer exist" with its "existing borders".



Neighbours Mali and Burkina Faso would also have suffered the same fate without France, Mr Macron said.



France carried out a decade-long operation to fight Islamic insurgents in Niger, Mali, Burkina Faso, Chad and Mauritania - all former French colonies - up until last year.



At its high point, around 5,500 French soldiers were stationed in the African countries.



However, anti-French sentiment and protests in the region intensified recently, with some opponents complaining France's intervention was a modern form of colonialism.



Others noted that the troops have not been able to overcome the threat from jihadists, whose deadly attacks on communities continue.



Amid this insecurity, soldiers in Mali, Burkina Faso and more recently Niger launched coups, saying a change of leadership was necessary to tackle the jihadists.



Mali's military government has called on the Russian mercenary group Wagner to help fight the Islamist militants. It is suspected that the mercenaries could be active in the wider region.

Source: BBC









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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South Africa, Russia and China have congratulated Zimbabwes President Emmerson Mnangagwa following his controversial election win over the weekend.



Meanwhile, the US added its voice to growing criticism of last week's general election which the opposition described as a "fraud".



The US government said there was systemic bias against the opposition and highlighted credible reports that monitors were forced to alter some election result forms. The electoral commission rejected these claims.



A statement from South Africa's presidency said South Africa was conscious that the elections took place under a difficult economic environment because of sanctions against Zimbabwe.



It also acknowledged concerns from independent election observers about the legitimacy of the result.



Some monitors said the poll fell short of international standards and the requirements of Zimbabwe's own constitution.



South Africa, Russia and China are key trade partners of Zimbabwe, and their backing of the poll is significant as Zimbabwe is facing the prospect of further Western isolation and sanctions after criticism of the poll.



The opposition Citizens Coalition for Change is still tallying its own results before deciding on a concrete plan of what to do next. But the congratulatory messages to President Mnangagwa are perhaps a reflection that Zimbabwe's main allies are ready to move on and accept the results.

Source: BBC









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In a move aimed at reducing government spending, Nigerias President Bola Tinubu has ordered the trimming of the Nigerian delegation to the upcoming UN General Assembly.



President Tinubu on Monday directed US mission in Nigeria to issue visas exclusively to Nigerian government officials who will directly participate in the UN event, which is scheduled to take place in New York next month.



Mr Tinubu also said Nigerias mission in New York should only accredit government officials with clear roles at the General Assembly.



The president also ordered officials travelling to the US to limit the number of aides and support staff that they take to the UN event, warning that individuals who disregard the guidelines will be removed from the delegation.

Source: BBC









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The actions and statements of International Monetary Fund (IMF) representatives and the US Ambassador in Ghana have raised eyebrows and led to allegations of undermining Ghanas sovereignty, cultural values, and economic stability.



A press release from The Dignified African Institute (TDAI) and signed by its Communications Director, Okatasi Mut Djeriwo (PhD) highlights the concerns of Ghanaians and questions the motivations behind these diplomatic actions.



The press release, dated August 30, 2023, emphasizes the historical wisdom ingrained in the African DNA and the respect accorded to nature and spirituality by African ancestors.



The release criticizes the activities of some foreign representatives in Ghana by invoking these deeply rooted cultural values.



TDAI has elucidated the ancient wisdom of African ancestors, who acknowledged the cyclical nature of the world and recognized divinity in all creation.



The release points out that these spiritual beliefs fostered a sense of responsibility and accountability in societies, negating the need for incarceration systems.



Read moreShedding light on the historical injustices faced by Africa due to colonization and exploitation of its knowledge systems, the release cited recent happenings such as IMF manipulations and the LGBTQ+ discourse in Ghana.



The release accused the IMF of covert and overt manipulation in supporting Ghanaian governments in ways that have led to economic instability and hardship.



The IMFs exoneration of the Ghanaian governments actions draws criticism from TDAI, which questions the legitimacy of the IMFs authority to intervene and calls for transparency regarding its motives in Ghana.



On issues regarding LGBTQ+ rights, TDAI highlights the US Ambassadors involvement in a discourse that many Ghanaians find objectionable.



The Ambassadors stance on LGBTQ+ rights, according to TDAI, contradicts the views of Ghanas Parliament, religious organizations, and societal norms.



It therefore wonders whether the Ambassadors actions could imply ulterior motives, potentially including the distribution of aid supplies packaged under the guise of humanitarian assistance.



The TDAI has therefore called for both the IMF and the US Ambassador to respect Ghanas citizens, values, and sovereignty.



The organisation has also underscored the Ghanaian peoples aspirations for economic development, peace, and the preservation of cultural beliefs.



The press release also stresses that Ghana should be treated as a sovereign nation whose integrity must be upheld by foreign entities.



The Ghanaian government has not yet issued an official response to the press release.



However, the document has ignited public discourse across social media platforms and among various stakeholder groups.



Some citizens support the organizations stance, viewing it as an assertion of national pride and dignity, while others express concerns about the diplomatic implications of such a public rebuke of foreign representatives.



The press release, with its strong language and calls for accountability, has sparked conversations about the role of international organizations in national affairs and the importance of diplomatic conduct.

Source: Peacefmonline.com









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As part of the strategy to eliminate ghost workers from the public sector payroll, the Controller and Account General has asked all public sector workers to enroll for the Ghana Card.



To make this possible, the National Identification Authority has dedicated a 10-day period for the registration of only public sector workers.



However, two days into the mandatory and free biometric registration of public workers without Ghana Card, patronage of the service has been completely low inspite of the large number of public sector employees without Ghana Card.



The National Identification Authority (NIA), in fulfillment of government's quest to rid its payroll of ghost names, started a mandatory Ghana Card registration for all public sector workers without the card on Monday, August 28, 2023 and the limited exercise which also includes the registration of first-time applicants above 15 years is expected to last for 10 days.



The special exercise follows a biometric audit conducted by the Controller and Accountant General Department in collaboration with the NIA last year which revealed that, out of 601000 public sector workers screened through their Ghana Card registration, the data of about 148060 did not match any data held by the NIA, raising serious issues of ghost-name fraud or double identities on government payroll.



However, inspite of the huge numbers, the designated centres for the registration of public sector workers without the Ghana Card have been deserted across the country and officials believe many people are not showing up because they are afraid of being exposed over ghost names and double identities due to stringent measures put in place by the Controller and Accountant General Department for registration of public sector workers.



"It is quiet obvious that if you are involved in ghost name scam or you have double identity, you cannot come here because you will be exposed. It is a reason they are deserting the centres," a registration supervisor in Accra confirmed the low patronage.



The registration of public sector workers forms part of an upcoming registration of first-time applicants from age 15 years and above and made possible by the supply of some 484000 new blanks cards to the NIA to enable it fulfil its mandate.



Public sector workers are required to present a copy of their July payslips alongside other mandatory documents such as abirth certificate, a valid Ghanaian passport or a certificate of citizenship to get registered and be issued with a Ghana Card.



NIA oficials and the CAGD have explained that the payslip is essential because the name on the payslip is exactly what will be used for the Ghana Card to ensure uniformity and easy verification and also expose ghost names and double identity on the payroll.



Public sector workers who fail to register for their Ghana Card, after this window, risk forfeiting their monthly salary as the Ghana Card registration is a key requirement following revelation that ghost names on government payroll are costing the government millions of cedis every month.

Source: Peacefmonline.com/Ghana









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The Womens Wing of the National Democratic Congress in South Africa has donated sanitary pads to two institutions in Nsawam Adoagyiri Constituency.



The beneficiary institutions were the Eye of God Orphanage Home (which received the assorted food items) and the Prince Boateng Memorial School (which received the sanitary pads) all of Aburi in the Eastern Region.



During the presentation ceremony, Sunday 27th August, 2023, Madam Wilbertina Buxton, NDC SA Chapter Women Organiser presented the items for and on behalf of the SA NDC Women Chapter.



Madam Buxton, speaking at the event said, "I'm honoured to represent NDC SA Chapter Women's Wing and we want to thank the Almighty God for the opportunity to interact with you and contribute our quota to your well-being so as to enhance your education", she stated.



According to her, the month of August is Women's Month in South Africa, as such they are obliged to also do something for their kith and kin in Ghana. "Our presence here is in line with our project that were embarking on both in SA and Ghana", she explained, adding "We are happy to make a donation of sanitary pads to female students of this school who need them", she indicated.



In her view, she averred being women and mothers themselves, they are aware of this critical need most young girls go through, especially in rural Ghana. "It has come to our notice that many young girls in educational institutions are unable to adopt the appropriate material and hygienic conditions during their menses. This may be because they don't have access to sanitary pads on timely bases", Madam Buxton revealed.



She however, underscored the fact that, the use of alternative materials to replace sanitary pads with its associated unhygienic conditions and discomfort would no doubt hinder the young girls' ability to concentrate on their studies.



"It is in this vein that the Womens Wing of NDC SA Chapter want to support you by supplying you with these sanitary pads and we promise to do same every three to six months", she promised, adding, "We believe that it will add up to what you have and give you comfort and peace of mind to pursue your studies in these times when the education of the girl child is at the centre of national development worldwide", she indicated.



She took the opportunity to encourage the students to take their studies seriously so that they can take advantage of the opportunities education offers women. "We want to assure you it's not going to be a one off thing, but in every three to six months we would be here to donate sanitary pads", she assured the beneficiaries.



In her concluding remarks, the NDC South African Chapter team leader said, on behalf of the NDC SA chapter they appreciate the Headmaster, the entire teaching staff and students for the warm reception given them. "As I said earlier we look forward to seeing you again in the very near future", Madam Buxton ended.



The Heads of Eye of God Orphanage Home and the Prince Boateng Memorial School showed their appreciation by thanking the NDC SA Women's Wing for their kind gesture towards the girls of their respective institutions.



The NDC SA Women's Wing were accompanied by Hon. Alex Segbefia, Director of International Affairs of the NDC, Lucy Bobison, SA NDC Deputy Treasurer and Isaac Kwami Penni, SA NDC Deputy General Secretary.



The rest were the NDC National Deputy Women Organizer, Abigail Elorm Mensah, aspiring NDC Parliamentary candidate for Nsawam Adoagyiri Constituency, Hon. Philibert Selorm Fummey, Women Organizer for Nsawan Adoagyiri, Akua Oduraa Gyekye and Ablekuma West Cons

Source: Peacefmonline.com









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A suspected thief, attempting to steal from a mechanic shop at Fiapre in the Sunyani West Municipality, has been electrocuted.



The Ghana News Agency (GNA) gathered around the place of the incident that the thief went to the area in the night with three other colleagues to engage in the crime.



Madam Akua Asamoah, a resident of the area, told the GNA that the deceased, only known as Frimpong, alias Akalin entered the shop through a small hole under it whilst the other accomplices were watching from afar.



She said Frimpong stole some electrical wires in the shop but in trying to exit by the same entry route, he stepped on a live wire and was instantly electrocuted.



His loud shout scared his colleague thieves to run away leaving him to his fate.



Mad. Asamoah said in the morning some neighbours who heard the shout went to the place and found only one hand of the deceased showing out of the shop and a quantity of wires held in the other hand.



She said they called the shop owner to inform him and when he came to open the shop, the thief was found dead on the floor surrounded by items.



Mad. Asamoah said the incident was reported to the Police who took the body to the morgue after taking some photographs at the scene for investigations.





Source: GNA









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Twenty-nine expectant mothers in the Central Region died during childbirth from January to June this year.



The deaths were mostly caused, among others, by excessive bleeding after birth (Postpartum haemorrhage) and high blood pressure disorders during pregnancy, and Sepsis.



Dr Agnes Achiamaa Anane, the Deputy Director of Clinical Care at the Central Regional Health Directorate, gave the hint when presenting the health situation of the Region at a Regional Coordinating Council (CRCC) meeting in Cape Coast.

For the whole of 2022, she said 69 mothers died while 79 and 75 died in 2021 and 2020 respectively.



She, therefore, called for the establishment of a regional blood bank to take care of critical situations when they came up to help reduce the figure further.

The Cape Coast Teaching Hospital has a blood bank but we all know it is not working as it should and so if you could help to renovate it to a befitting standard, we will be glad, she said.



Dr. Anane also indicated that children who died at birth (institutional stillbirth) stood at the ratio of 11.1 in 2022 which was an improvement from the 12.7 and 13.3 recorded in 2021 and 2020 respectively.



In the same vein, she said the rate of deaths of newborn babies stood at 4.8 in 2022, as against the 6.9 seen in 2021 and 6.6 per 100,000 live births in 2020.

She noted that these deaths were mostly caused by jaundice in the babies, and therefore, urged mothers to take their babies to the nearest health center once they noticed abnormal changes in them.



On the incidence of teen pregnancy in the Region, she indicated that it continued in a downward trajectory in 2022 with a record of 9,748 cases.

The figure is 539 shy of the 10,287 cases recorded in 2021, making it the fifth consecutive reduction in five years.



In 2018, the region had 11,350 incidents on record but the figure plummeted to 10,914 in 2019 before dropping further to 10,300 in 2020.



Dr Anane further told the council that the Gomoa Central District recorded the highest number of cases while Effutu recorded the lowest.



She explained that the 9,748 teen expectant mothers were among 86,106 people who reported for Antenatal Care in 2022.



In spite of the improvement, she urged traditional leaders, district assemblies, the Ghana Education Service, the Ghana Health Service, and all other relevant stakeholders to help champion further reductions in the scourge.



Mrs Justina Marigold Assan, the Central Regional Minister, who considered the incidence of teenage pregnancy still very high, urged the assemblies to design strategic ways to curb it completely.



The story is not too good. Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs) should push for programmes with your gender departments.



Organise girl programmes which will champion the cause of bringing teenage pregnancy down drastically because it is becoming scary. Let's do all we can to keep our girls in school, she said.



Mrs Assan also urged stakeholders to target boys in the educational campaign because many of them were impregnating their mates.





Source: GNA









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VoterGA: Impeach Fani Willis for Prosecutorial Misconduct in 'Phony' Indictment of 19 Political Adversaries

NEWS PROVIDED BY

VoterGA

Aug. 29, 2023

ATLANTA, Aug. 29, 2023 /Christian Newswire/ -- VoterGA called today for the Georgia General Assembly to immediately initiate a Special Session on elections and impeach Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis for prosecutorial misconduct in the filing of a "phony" indictment against 19 of her political adversaries. The VoterGA press conference presented a thorough analysis of a recent 41-count racketeering indictment filed by Fani Willis who cited election related "crimes". VoterGA contends that no true crime is identified in the indictment because it misapplies law and misstates factual information throughout its 98 pages.

Examples of misapplied law and misstatements of factual information include:

Alleged false statements made about Georgia elections that are actually true;

Statements protected by free speech of the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution;

False criminalization of legitimate Georgia contingent elector activities;

False charges of computer crimes against those who exposed voting system failures;

False charges against those trying to protect potential witnesses of election crime;

Misapplication of racketeering, forgery and solicitation statutes to legal activities.

The press conference also identified evidence of potential election crimes in Fulton County that Fani Willis never investigated and kept hidden from the grand jury including:

Election bribery and interference;

Ballot trafficking;

Electronic vote tampering;

Falsification of audit documents.

VoterGA co-founder Garland Favorito stated: "This phony indictment presents a clear picture to Georgians of how a District Attorney can mislead a grand jury and suppress critical facts the jury needs to know for their decision-making process. Legislators must use their impeachment power to hold Fani Willis accountable for malicious prosecution. The General Assembly must also prohibit District Attorneys from having exclusive control of grand juries and restore the right of citizens to present facts to any grand jury in the state."

VoterGA is a non-partisan, 501(c)3 registered non-profit organization created by a coalition of citizens working to restore election integrity in Georgia. We advocate for independently verifiable, auditable, recount capable, transparent and tamper proof elections.

SOURCE VoterGA

CONTACT: Sheryl Sellaway, 404-273-5133, sheryl@righteouspragency.com
A parent whose identity is not known has abandoned her deformed baby at the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital.



She left the facility without notifying the nurses in charge.



According to a TV3 report, the baby has only one arm and a limb.



The mother, after the delivery, told the health workers present that she was stepping out to buy an item but failed to return to the facility.



She also provided the wrong contact to the facility leaving the nurses baffled about her whereabouts and identity.



The nurses indicated that the deformity of the baby came about as a result of the mothers failed attempted abortion.



The nurses then decided to give the abandoned baby the name Ransford Sakyi.



Meanwhile, another baby was brought to the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital by a team of police officers who found him abandoned at a beach in Accra, malnourished with measles, TV3 reports.



The health workers at the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital are calling on the parents to come for their babies otherwise they will be released to the social welfare department.













Source: ghanaweb.com









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The Global Evangelical Church (GEC) has called for the proper and legal interpretations of the annual ban on drumming and noise making imposed by the Ga Traditional Council (GTC) during the Homowo festival.



It said that would not only prevent potential conflicts between the GTC and other religious communities, but also reinforce the principles of religious freedom and peaceful coexistence which underpinned the nation's ethos.



The Moderator of the GEC, Rt Rev. Prosper Samuel Dzomeku, who made the appeal, said it had come to the churchs attention that the practice sometimes led to conflicting interpretations and inconveniences among different religious communities which could potentially disrupt the nations harmony.



By seeking clarity and consensus on this matter, we can work together to ensure that the ban is observed in a manner that respects the rights and practices of all stakeholders, he stressed.



He was speaking at the opening ceremony of the GEC 2023 Synod held in Accra last Friday.



Synod

The Synod is the highest decision making body of the church made up of delegates from the 14 presbyteries in Ghana, one presbytery in Togo and international branches of the church.



Their mandate is to decide on various issues affecting the church including doctrine, administration and, most especially, the decline in membership.



This years synod is on the theme: Be Holy In All You Do (1 Peter 1:14-16).



Some dignitaries present included the Volta Regional Minister, Dr Archibald Yao Letsa, who is a member of the church; the Minister of Chieftaincy And Religious Affairs, Stephen Asamoah Boateng, and representatives of sister churches, other denominations and para-church organisations.



Rev. Dzomeku stressed that through open dialogue and collaboration, all parties could arrive at a solution that stroke a balance between preserving cultural heritage and upholding the rights and practices of all religious groups.



We respect and honour the rich cultural traditions of our nation so we believe your leadership and wisdom are instrumental in guiding us toward a resolution that respects the traditions of our past while embracing the diversity of our present, the Christian cleric added.



The Moderator also touched on other socially relevant topics including education, health, illegal mining (galamsey), agriculture, same sex marriage and related matters, economy, good governance, tradition, peace, security and the 2024 general election, among others. He, also, intimated to the government to employ best practices to advance the welfare of all citizens in those respects.



Agent, Reawakening

The Senior Presidential Advisor, Yaw Osafo-Maafo, pledged to act as agent and carry their concerns to the President and ensure that all the issues raised were treated with a sense of urgency.



He also lauded the church for the many projects it had embarked on to better the lives of, not only members of the church, but also citizens across the country, promising to lobby the government on its behalf, to ensure that the church achieved greater feats.



The General Secretary of the Christian Council of Ghana, Rev. Dr Cyril Fayose, said the church needed a reawakening of the significance of holiness in the lives of Christians because the centre of gravity for Christianity had moved from the global north to the global south of which Ghana was a pivotal member.



The colour of Christianity in this century will be determined by the global south so what kind of Christianity are we selling to the world when our churches are filled to capacity, but our way of life is nothing to write home about? Rev. Fayose stressed.

Source: graphiconline.com









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The former Member of Parliament (MP) for Tema East constituency, Daniel Nii Kwartei Titus Glover, has said among all the flagbearer aspirants of the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP), the main opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) considers Vice-President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia a great threat.



According to Mr Glover, Dr Bawumia is the only candidate who can help the NPP break the eight.



Mr Glover, who is lending his support to the Vice-President, explained that: Hes the candidate the NDC fears most, of all the 10, when you look around, when you scout around who is the most attacked candidate amongst the 10. It tells you something.



When NDC [set] their eyes on you, consistently attacking you, then you are the one that they fear the most.



He also stressed the involvement of Dr Bawumia, in the NPPs performance in the Northern Region, describing it as phenomenal.



This is somebody who has sacrificed so much for the country, Im not saying the others havent sacrificed but when you look at the individual contribution, look at the days of the Supreme Court...I think that he has done his best.



He added: He [Dr Bawumia] has defended this party, he has sacrificed for this party, he is the candidate that the NDC fears so much.



Mr Glover said these to the media over the weekend during the Super Delegates Conference on Saturday, 26 August 2023 in Ho.





Source: class fm









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A government spokesperson and staunch member of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Kofi Tonto has chided the National Democratic Congress (NDC) for presenting former president John Dramani Mahama as flagbearer considering his failure in elections.



According to him, the NDC has no integrity to chastise the New Patriotic Party (NPP) for voting overwhelmingly for Vice President, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, who won with 626 votes in the partys super delegates conference.



He bemoaned why the NDC is presenting John Dramani Mahama, who has been denied by Ghanaians twice as flagbearer for the 2024 general elections.



Speaking on a panel discussion on TV3s new day on August 28, 2023, the government spokesperson reiterated that Dr. Bawumia cannot be compared with John Mahama because he has not lost any major election yet, while the former president has lost twice.



He said this when NDCs Edudzi Tamakloe asserted that if the NPP elects Dr. Bawumia as its flagbearer, it would be an insult to the intelligence of Ghanaians.



You [Edudzi Tamakloe] sit here and talk about insulting the intelligence of Ghanaians. You elected a candidate who has been voted out twice by Ghanaians, John Dramani Mahama. What more is insulting than that? Dr. Bawumia has not contested for Ghanaians to pass judgment on him, but John Mahama has, twice. Ghanaians have said, we don't want him, but yet you have elected him.



I'm telling you that if that [NPP electing Dr. Bawumia is an insult to the intelligence of state] is the case, then they [NDC] did it first. Because in Mahama's case, he has been denied twice by Ghanaians. How do you present a man who has been denied twice that is more of an insult to Ghanaians? If you don't care to know, you [Edudzi Tamakloe] sit here and talk about it, he said.



Background



Vice President, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia has emerged as the leading contender of the New Patriotic Party Super Delegates Conference.



Per the results, Dr Bawumia garnered 629 votes representing 68.15 percent of the total votes cast. The results are based on figures collated by 17 out 17 voting centres across the country.



Behind him is Assin Central lawmaker, Kennedy Agyapong who polled 132 votes representing 14.30 percent while Alan Kyerematen polled 95 votes representing 10.29 percent in the elections which took place on Saturday August 26, 2023.



Dr. Owusu Afriyie Akoto secured the fourth spot for the partys presidential primaries with 36 votes representing 3.90%.



Boakye Agyarko and Francis Addai-Nimoh tied in 5th position with 9 votes each representing 0.98%.



Other candidates who contested in the elections were Joe Ghartey with 4 votes, Kwadwo Poku with 3 votes, Kwabena Agyepong with 5 votes while Dr Kofi Konadu Apraku failed to secure a single vote.



The Super Delegates Conference is aimed at reducing the pool of contenders vying for the party's presidential candidacy in the upcoming 2024 general election.



Ten candidates from the NPP participated in the race, with the objective of selecting five candidates who will proceed to another round of voting in November this year



The final round will determine the substantive candidate of the NPP for the presidential election ahead of the 2024 general elections.





Source: Ghanaweb.com









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Artiste manager and chairman of Ghana Songwriters Association, Emmanuel Barnes, popularly known as Mr Logic, has jumped to the defence of dancehall artiste Shatta Wale over his recent comments on Nigerian Asake's successful debut at the O2 Arena, London.



Asake gave an electrifying performance in a charged auditorium filled with 20000 music lovers and following his achievement, Shatta Wale took to Twitter to pass critical comments about Ghanaian musicians and the music industry.



He tweeted; Nigerians are making Ghana music look like feeding bottle compared to Hennessy bottle. Congrats to Asake meeenn!!!"



Shatta Wale returned with a series of posts reading "you people call me a drug addict, why should I risk my life to fill a place for Ghanaians or the music industry? I am okay, I wanted to buy house, lands and investments, I am okay, so filling the O2 is not my priority, my priority is to keep a billion dollars in my account , that is where I am at right now. Nobody should disturb me about filling the 02 or my music".



He has however been met with a caustic public backlash with some Ghanaians rebuking him for being a major reason why Ghana's music growth is hindered.



A section of the public slammed him over his constant negative remarks about his colleague musicians, wondering why he would turn back to expect Ghanaian music to blossom by envisioning Ghanaian artistes perfoming to a mammoth crowd like their Nigerian counterparts.



But Mr. Logic says Ghanaians should leave Shatta Wale alone, stressing the artiste is not the problem.



"See, Asake's music is pratically and basically a Yoruba and the use of English with melodies. It is nothing strange that these people cannot do. It's because of the push and the kind of investment these Nigerians get unless you haven't worked with a Nigerian artiste before...The problem we have is funding. Our boys don't have money. There is no money, so don't blame Wale!", he said on "United Showbiz" aired on UTV every Saturday.





Source: Ameyaw Adu Gyamfi/Peacefmonline.com/Ghana









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The history of the Sicilian Mafia can be traced back to the late 19th century in western Sicily, where mafia frontmen and bosses began to establish their influence in the region. One of the major factors that led to the creation of Cosa Nostra was Gabellottos control over landlord-farmer relationships, which in turn gave rise to powerful mafia bosses in Sicily. The Italian State, in its quest to maintain control, inadvertently supported the growth of this secret society by relying on the expertise of the Mafiosi who were familiar with the local environment.

The Allies invasion of Sicily in 1943 had a profound impact on the Mafia, as it led to the sacking of fascist officials and the appointment of many previously imprisoned mafiosi to positions of authority. This allowed the Mafia to expand its criminal activities beyond the island, engaging in protection racketeering, mediating conflicts between criminals, and facilitating illicit agreements and transactions. Cosa Nostra became synonymous with activities such as murder, extortion, drug trafficking, and corruption of public officials. As a result, some mafiosi fled to other regions to continue their criminal endeavors.

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The term Cosa Nostra, which translates to Our Thing in English, is often associated with powerful mafia bosses and their secret society. The Mafias influence in Sicily extended to politics, with some political parties like Forza Italia being accused of having connections with the Mafia. The close relationship between the Mafia and politics in Sicily has significantly shaped the islands history and development.

The Power Struggle: Mafia Families and Territories

At the core of the Sicilian Mafia is the family, clan, or cosca, which often controls specific areas or Sicilian towns. One such Sicilian town under the control of a primary organized crime group in Sicily, like the Cuntrera-Caruana Mafia clan, experiences fierce rivalries and violent conflicts between different mafia families. These territorial claims can range from control over certain neighborhoods to domination of entire cities.

The power dynamics within the Sicilian Mafia are intricate and generally involve cooperation and antagonism between different families. As the Mafia evolved and expanded, so too did its internal power struggles and territorial disputes, leaving a lasting impact on Sicilian society and beyond.
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Researchers have shown that dissipative Kerr solitons (DKSs) can be used to create chip-based optical frequency combs with enough output power for use in optical atomic clocks and other practical applications. The advance could lead to chip-based instruments that can make precision measurements that were previously possible only in a few specialized laboratories. Credit: Gregory Moille, Joint Quantum Institute, NIST/University of Maryland

Researchers have shown that dissipative Kerr solitons (DKSs) can be used to create chip-based optical frequency combs with enough output power for use in optical atomic clocks and other practical applications. The advance could lead to chip-based instruments that can make precision measurements that were previously possible only in a few specialized laboratories.

Gregory Moille from the Joint Quantum Institute, NIST/University of Maryland, will present this research at Frontiers in Optics + Laser Science (FiO LS), which will be held 912 October 2023 at the Greater Tacoma Convention Center in Tacoma (Greater Seattle Area), Washington.

"Frequency combs are ubiquitous in metrologyjust like a ruler measures length, they let us measure optical frequency with great precision," said Moille.

"Making them on chip helps us reduce greatly their power consumption, but also reduces the power in each comb tooth. This makes it hard to interface on-chip combs with other system like atomic frequency standards. We show that by simply carefully injecting another weak laser in the comb device, it lets us tune the system and therefore optimize the power in several comb teeth power by more than an order of magnitude."

Optical frequency combs emit a continuous train of short, closely spaced pulses of light containing millions of colors, which can be used to measure light waves as if they were radio waves. This allows technologies such as atomic clocks, computers and communications to be connected with optical waves that oscillate at 10,000 times higher frequencies than those found in electronics.

While conventional optical frequency combs are generated using mode-locked lasers that tend to be constrained to high-end scientific laboratories, there has been recent work to develop optical frequency combs using compact, chip-scale microresonators based on DKSs. DKSs are packets of light that rely on a double balance of nonlinearity and dispersion as well as dissipation and gain. Although DKS-based combs consume very little energy, they also do not produce enough output power to be useful.

In the new work, researchers harness the newly proposed Kerr-induced synchronization of Kerr solitons to an external stable laser reference to produce optical frequency combs with higher levels of power. This creates a substantial increase of power on the other side of the comb spectrum from the reference laser.

The researchers demonstrate, both theoretically and experimentally, that an external reference pump at 193 THz allows for the repetition rate tuning of an octave-spanning comb. This enables tuning of the phase-matching condition of the comb tooth at the dispersive wave in a way that optimizes its power. Alongside a self-balancing effect, directly related to the core robustness property of the DKS, they demonstrate a more than 15-fold power increase at the 388 THz comb tooth.

"We are just scratching the surface of what optimization can be performed," explains Moille. "We have not reached the power limit of this optimization and hope to reach power level compatible with interfacing our comb directly with other systems"

Provided by Optica
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Credit: CC0 Public Domain

At this time of year many parents and caregivers are asking a familiar set of questions.

Should I send my child to school next year? Are they ready? Would it be better to hold them back?

These are complex questions. Here are some factors for parents to consider.

You need to be at school by the age 6

In Australia, primary and secondary school are compulsory between the ages of six and 16, however there are varying cut-off dates between states and territories.

For example, children in NSW can start school the year they turn five if their birthday is before July 31, and must be enrolled before they turn six.

In the Australian Capital Territory and Victoria the cut-off date is April 30, in South Australia it is May 1, in Queensland and the Northern Territory it is June 30.

This means a class in the first year of school can have a big difference in ages. Some will start school while they are still four, others could be six.

So depending on when your child's birthday is, you may have a choice to send them this year or next.

The cost-of-living question

Although the school start decision is ultimately placed at the feet of parents, government policies and support are essential considerations for families.

Some parents cannot wait to send their children to school because it means they will no longer need to pay childcare fees.

As the cost of living continues to be a concern for many Australian families, parents will no doubt be comparing the ongoing cost of childcare with the lack of fees in the public school system.

However for some, the July 2023 boost to the childcare subsidy may mean school is no longer a radically cheaper option.

Is it better to 'hold them back?'

Research shows wealthier families are more likely to delay starting school, to give their children more time to develop physically, academically and emotionally.

Certainly there is no shortage of news reports featuring parents who decide to "hold them back" in the belief it is beneficial. There is some evidence this is more often the case for boys.

But research only shows a slight benefit in academic and socio-behavioral outcomes in the early years of school. Australian research suggests delayed school entry does not have a lasting influence on basic reading and math skills in middle primary school and the early years of high school.

Nevertheless, the option to delay starting school is particularly important for children who may need more time to develop. This includes children from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds as well as children who have specific inclusion needs. Parents of these children also need more support as they prepare their children for school.

The focus of school has changed

The education system and the way childhood is viewed by schools has also changed in recent decades. Instead of seeing children as "blank slates" to be filled with knowledge, contemporary ideas see children as active learners, with rights to play and agency or choice.

Learning today is about ways of thinking, ways of working and ways of living.

This means specific subject knowledgesuch as children knowing letters and soundsis now considered just one of the skills children learn.

Think about these questions

Unsurprisingly, our ideas about "school readiness" have also changed. When educators think about whether a child is ready to start school they consider these sorts of issues:

executive function: can your child stay focused and retain bits of information?

self-regulation: can they manage their emotions?

asking for help: can they ask for help if they need it to understand an instruction or deal with a problem in the playground?

well-being: does your child have good self-esteem and how do they manage if things aren't going well?

These aspects of children's development have been found to be closely linked with success in educational contexts.

Transitions matter more than the age

It can seem like there is huge pressure on parents to "get it right" over school starting age. But it is worth remembering starting school is just one of the transitions children will make in their lives.

Also remember you are not alone. Many people are also grappling with these questions.

If you are unsure of your child's development in these areastalk to your "educational village." These are your child's early childhood educators, maternal and child health team and the school you are considering. They are here to help.

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.
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Credit: CC0 Public Domain

A portion of Amazonian lowland rainforestareas critical to absorbing carbon dioxide and buffering climate changemay morph over time into dry, grassy savannas, according to a Rutgers-led study.

The report, published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, described a new understanding of how alternating flooding in the wet season and drought in the dry season, called double-stress, can limit forest establishment and favor short-lived grass species.

"Because predictions of future climate indicate a drier climate for the tropics, knowing where and how today's forests will become savannas will help us predict how the carbon cycle may change, exacerbating warming," said Caio Mattos, a lead author who conducted the research as a doctoral student in the Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences in the Rutgers School of Arts and Sciences.

"We showed that several areas of the Amazonian rainforest, which were previously thought to be protected, will be at risk of undergoing a change towards a savanna-like state."

The Amazon region helps stabilize the global climate, storing about 123 billion tons of carbon above and below ground, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Losing trees to a process the study described as "savannization" means the Amazon's ability to store carbon could be impacted.

The findings help explain why forests and savannas can coexist side by side under the same climate today, with forests occupying stably flooded areas, such as the vast swamp forests in interior Amazonia, or stably droughted, such as the forests on well-drained upland.

This implies that, under a future climate that is projected to be drier, some of the permanently flooded lowland Amazon will start to "feel" a dry period, subjecting the forests to double-stress or savanna conditions in the heart of the Amazonia.

"This study demonstrates the power of hydrology in explaining the structure and function of vegetation ecosystems," said Ying Fan Reinfelder, a professor in the Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences in the Rutgers School of Arts and Sciences and a co-author of the study. "We argue that global change research can benefit from a sharpened focus on hydrological change."

These findings, Reinfelder said, contrast with the conclusions of most studies on the future of the Amazon, which have concluded that this forest-savanna conversion is likely to be confined to one area of the Amazonits drier southern portion.

A forest is defined as an area of land dominated by trees and characterized by its thick canopy. A savanna is a mixed woodland-grassland system with trees sufficiently spaced to allow sunlight to promote grass growth.

Oceans and forests represent the two largest natural carbon "sinks," or absorbers, on Earth. Trees pull carbon out of the air during photosynthesis. Savannas, while vital sources of biodiversity, store far less carbon per acre.

Scientists have known for decades that the edges of the Amazon are threatened by deforestation brought about by population pressures and climate change. The study revealed insight into a mechanism that is likely to affect the interior Amazon.

"We found that flooding is key," said Mattos, now a postdoctoral researcher at Princeton University. "In some parts of the landscape, groundwater fluctuates between being too shallowdrowning tree rootsand too deepdepriving roots of water. This double stress is only tolerated by savanna plant species. Forests only thrive when situated in stable upland, which is never flooded, or in stable lowland, where it is always flooded."

To reach their findings, the scientists looked to the science of hydrology, the study of the properties of the Earth's water on land. To simulate the Amazon region's water cycles in the present, they employed a complex computer model, essentially a series of equations representing various hydrological conditionsincluding river heights, soil moisture levels and evaporation rates.

Next, they ran the computer model using climate projections for 2090-2100 using data provided by scientists from the United Nations' Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (the Hadley Center Model) to map the areas that may be changed from permanent flooding to double stress.

A comparison between present representations and future simulations of hydrological stress showed effects on several ecologically critical areas. Floodplain forests in interior areas of the Amazon region, such as within the state of Amazonas and along the Madeira and Upper Negro riversregarded as some of the most biologically rich floodplain forests in the worldlikely will be affected.

Large areas of peatlands in Peru, another area that efficiently absorbs carbon, may also be altered, leading to decomposition and consequent release of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, accelerating warming.

More information: Caio R. C. Mattos et al, Double stress of waterlogging and drought drives forestsavanna coexistence, Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (2023). DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2301255120 Journal information: Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences
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The Pinwheel Galaxy, or Messier 101, on May 21, 2023, four days after the light from the supernova 2023ixf reached Earth. Credit: Steven Bellavia

Alex Filippenko is the kind of guy who brings a telescope to a party. True to form, at a soiree on May 18 this year, he wowed his hosts with images of star clusters and colorful galaxiesincluding the dramatic spiral Pinwheel Galaxyand snapped telescopic photos of each.

Only late the next afternoon did he learn that a bright supernova had just been discovered in the Pinwheel Galaxy. Lo and behold, he'd also captured it, at 11 p.m. the night beforeeleven and a half hours before the explosion's discovery on May 19 by amateur astronomer Koichi Itagaki in Japan.

Filippenko, a professor of astronomy at the University of California, Berkeley, graduate student Sergiy Vasylyev and postdoctoral fellow Yi Yang threw out their planned observations at the UC's Lick Observatory on Mount Hamilton a few hours later to focus on the exploding star, which had been dubbed SN 2023ixf. They and hundreds of other astronomers were eager to observe the nearest supernova since 2014, a mere 21 million light years from Earth.

These observations were the earliest-ever measurements of polarized light from a supernova, showing more clearly the evolving shape of a stellar explosion. The polarization of light from distant sources like supernovae provides the best information on the geometry of the object emitting the light, even for events that cannot be spatially resolved.

"Some stars prior to exploding go through undulationsfitful behavior that gently ejects some of the materialso that when the supernova explodes, either the shock wave or the ultraviolet radiation causes the stuff to glow," Filippenko said. "The cool thing about the spectropolarimetry is that we get some indication of the shape and extent of the circumstellar material."

The spectropolarimetry data told a story in line with current scenarios for the final years of a red supergiant star about 10 to 20 times more massive than our sun: Energy from the explosion lit up clouds of gas that the star shed over the previous few years; the ejecta then punched through this gas, initially perpendicular to the bulk of the circumstellar material; and finally, the ejecta engulfed the surrounding gas and evolved into a rapidly expanding but symmetric cloud of debris.

The explosion, a Type II supernova resulting from the collapse of the iron core of a massive star, presumably left behind a dense neutron star or a black hole. Such supernovae are used as calibratable candles to measure the distances to distant galaxies and map the cosmos.

Another group of astronomers led by Ryan Chornock, a UC Berkeley adjunct associate professor of astronomy, gathered spectroscopic data using the same telescope at Lick Observatory. Graduate student Wynn Jacobson-Galan and professor Raffaella Margutti analyzed the data to reconstruct the pre- and post-explosion history of the star, and found evidence that it had shed gas for the previous three to six years before collapsing and exploding. The amount of gas shed or ejected before the explosion could have been 5% of its total massenough to create a dense cloud of material through which the supernova ejecta had to plow.

"I think this supernova is going to make a lot of us think in much more detail about the subtleties of the whole population of red supergiants that lose a lot of material before explosion and challenge our assumptions about mass loss," Jacobson-Galan said. "This was a perfect laboratory to understand in more detail the geometry of these explosions and the geometry of mass loss, something we already felt ignorant about."

The improved understanding of how Type II supernovae evolve could help refine their use as distance measures in the expanding universe, Vasylyev said.

The two papers describing these observations have been accepted for publication in The Astrophysical Journal Letters. Margutti and Chornock are co-authors of both papers, which are currently available on the arXiv preprint server.

One of the most studied supernovae to date

In the more than three months since the supernova's light reached Earth, perhaps three dozen papers have been submitted or published about it, with more to come as the light from the explosion continues to arrive and the observations of a variety of telescopes are analyzed.

"In the world of Type II supernovae, it's very rare to have basically every wavelength detected, from hard X-rays to soft X-rays to ultraviolet. to optical, near-infrared, radio, millimeter. So it's really a rare and unique opportunity," said Margutti, a Berkeley professor of physics and of astronomy. "These papers are the beginning of a story, the first chapter. Now we are writing the other chapters of the story of that star."

"The big-picture question here is we want to connect how a star lives with how a star dies," Chornock said. "Given the proximity of this event, it will allow us to challenge the simplifying assumptions that we have to make in most of the other supernovae we study. We have such a wealth of detail that we're going to have to figure out how to fit it all together to understand this particular object, and then that will inform our understanding of the broader universe."

Lick Observatory's telescopes on top of Mount Hamilton near San Jose were critical to the astronomers' efforts to assemble a complete picture of the supernova. The Kast spectrograph on the Shane 120-inch telescope is able to switch quickly from a normal spectrometer to a spectropolarimeter, which allowed Vasylyev and Filippenko to obtain measurements of both the spectrum and its polarization. The group led by Jacobson-Galan, Chornock and Margutti employed both the Kast spectrograph and the photometer on the Nickel 40-inch telescope, with photometry (brightness measurements) also from the Pan-STARRS telescope in Hawaii through the Young Supernova Experiment collaboration.

The polarization of light emitted by an objectthat is, the orientation of the electric field of the electromagnetic wavecarries information about the shape of the object. Light from a spherically symmetric cloud, for example, would be unpolarized because the electric fields symmetrically cancel. Light from an elongated object, however, would produce a nonzero polarization.

While polarimetry measurements of supernovae have been going on for more than three decades, few are close enoughand thus bright enoughfor such measurements. And no other supernova has been observed as early as 1.4 days after the explosion, as with SN 2023ixf.

The observations yielded some surprises.

"The most exciting thing is that this supernova shows a very high continuum polarization, nearly 1%, at early times," Vasylyev said. "That sounds like a small number, but it's actually a huge deviation from spherical symmetry."

Based on the changing intensity and direction of polarization, the researchers were able to identify three distinct phases in the evolution of the exploding star. Between one and three days after the explosion, the light was dominated by emission from the circumstellar medium, perhaps a disk of material or lopsided blob of gas shed earlier by the star. This was due to ionization of the surrounding gas by ultraviolet and X-ray light from the explosion and by stellar material plowing through the gas, so-called shock ionization.

"Early on, we're saying that most of the light that we're seeing is from some kind of non-spherical circumstellar medium that is confined to somewhere around 30 A.U.," Yang said. An astronomical unit (AU), the average distance between Earth and our sun, is 93 million miles.

At 3.5 days, the polarization quickly dropped by half, and then a day later shifted by nearly 70 degrees, implying an abrupt change in the geometry of the explosion. They interpret this moment, 4.6 days after explosion, as the time when the ejecta from the exploding star broke out from the dense circumstellar material.

"Essentially, it engulfs the circumstellar material, and you get this peanut-shaped geometry," Vasylyev said. "The intuition there is that the material in the equatorial plane is denser, and the ejecta get slowed down, and the path of least resistance will be toward the axis where there's less circumstellar material. That's why you get this peanut shape aligned with the preferential axis through which it explodes."

The polarization remained unchanged between days 5 and 14 after the explosion, implying that the expanding ejecta had overwhelmed the densest region of surrounding gas, allowing emission from the ejecta to dominate over light from shock ionization.

Shock ionization

The spectroscopic evolution roughly agreed with this scenario, Jacobson-Galan said. He and his team saw emissions from the gas surrounding the star about a day after the explosion, likely produced as the ejecta slammed into the circumstellar medium and produced ionizing radiation that caused the surrounding gas to emit light. Spectroscopic measurements of the light from this shock ionization showed emission lines from hydrogen, helium, carbon and nitrogen, which is typical of core-collapse supernovae.

The emissions produced by shock ionization continued for about eight days, after which it decreased, indicating that the shock wave had moved into a less dense area of space with little gas to ionize and reemit, similar to what Vasylyev and Filippenko observed.

Margutti noted that other astronomers have looked at archival images of the Pinwheel Galaxy and found several occasions when the progenitor star brightened in the years before the explosion, suggesting that the red supergiant repeatedly sloughed off gas. This is consistent with her group's observations of ejecta from the explosion plowing through this gas, though they estimate a density about 1,000 times less than implied by the pre-explosion undulations.

Analysis of other observations, including X-ray measurements, could resolve this issue.

"This is a very special situation where we know what the progenitor was doing before because we saw it slowly oscillating, and we have all the probes in place to try to reconstruct the geometry of the circumstellar medium," she said. "And we know for a fact that it cannot be spherical. By putting together the radiant X-rays with what Wynn found and what Sergiy and Alex are finding, then we will be able to have a complete picture of the explosion."

The astronomers acknowledged the help of numerous researchers and students who gave up their observing time at Lick to allow the teams to focus on SN 2023ixf, and the observational assistance of Thomas Brink, an associate specialist in astronomy at UC Berkeley.

Filippenko captured his early photo of SN 2023ixf with a Unistellar eVscope, which has become popular among amateurs because the telescope subtracts background light and thus allows nighttime viewing in areas like cities, with lots of light pollution. He and 123 other astronomersmostly amateursusing Unistellar telescopes recently published their early observations of the supernova.

"This fortuitous observation, obtained while conducting public outreach in astronomy, shows that the star exploded considerably earlier than when Itagaki discovered it," he said, jokingly adding, "I should have immediately examined my data."

More information: Sergiy S. Vasylyev et al, Early-time Spectropolarimetry of the Asymmetric Type II Supernova SN 2023ixf, arXiv (2023). DOI: 10.48550/arxiv.2307.01268 W. V. Jacobson-Galan et al, SN 2023ixf in Messier 101: Photo-ionization of Dense, Close-in Circumstellar Material in a Nearby Type II Supernova, arXiv (2023). DOI: 10.48550/arxiv.2306.04721 Journal information: Astrophysical Journal Letters , arXiv
(CNN)  Hawaiian Electric Company said that power lines falling in high winds seem to have caused a fire during the early morning of August 8, but power lines in West Maui had been de-energized for more than six hours by the time a second afternoon fire began in the Lahaina area.

The company made the comments in a new response Sunday to a lawsuit filed by the County of Maui.

In a lawsuit filed Thursday, the County of Maui alleged the electric company, known as HECO, inexcusably kept their power lines energized in early August, despite the fact that the National Weather Service issued a High Wind Watch and a Fire Warning.

The utility states the cause of that afternoon fire has not yet been determined. That afternoon fire ultimately grew into the inferno that killed at least 115 people and damaged or destroyed more than 2,000 structures.

In a press release, HECO mentioned videos showing that power lines had fallen to the ground in high winds near the intersection of Lahainaluna Road and Hookahua Street at approximately 6:30am. But that morning fire was declared 100% contained by the Maui County Fire Department by 9am, they said.

The press release from HECO then explains: Once the fire was out, Hawaiian Electric emergency crews arrived at Lahainaluna Road in the afternoon of Aug. 8 to make repairs; they saw no fire or smoke or embers. All lines to Lahaina remained de-energized and all power in the area remained off.

Shortly before 3 p.m., while the power remained off, HECO said its crew members saw a small fire about 75 yards away from Lahainaluna Road in the field near the Intermediate School. They immediately called 911 and reported that fire, the release says.

By the time the Maui County Fire Department arrived back on the scene, it was not able to contain that fire, and it spread out of control toward Lahaina, the release says.

In a statement to CNN Monday, John Fiske the attorney representing the County of Maui in the lawsuit said, To the extent HECO has information of a second ignition source, HECO should offer that evidence now. The ultimate responsibility rests with HECO to de-energize, ensure its equipment and systems are properly maintained, and ensure downed power lines are not energized.

CNN asked Fiske for clarity on why they believe Hawaiian Electric has information on a second ignition source but did not immediately hear back.

Shelee Kimura, president and CEO of HECO, said, We were surprised and disappointed that the County of Maui rushed to court even before completing its own investigation. We believe the complaint is factually and legally irresponsible. It is inconsistent with the path that we believe we should pursue as a resilient community committed and accountable to each other as well as to Hawaiis future. We continue to stand ready to work to that end with our communities and others. Unfortunately, the countys lawsuit may leave us no choice in the legal system but to show its responsibility for what happened that day.

Kimura also said that there are important lessons to be learned from this tragedy by all, and we are resolved to figure out what we need to do to keep our communities safe as climate issues rapidly intensify here and around the globe. We invite others to do the same with us.

This story was first published on CNN.com, "Hawaiian Electric says power lines started morning fire on August 8, but not afternoon Lahaina Fire"
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Two areas in the Mare Ingenii swirl region examined by the PSI team. The crater at the center of the topmost image is at 162 longitude, -35 latitude. Images were extracted from the Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter Camera (LROC) quickmap (http://quickmap.lroc.asu.edu). Credit: Arizona State University

A new study of lunar swirls shows evidence of highly mobile regolith on the moon, according to a team of PSI scientists led by Deborah Domingue.

Swirls are enigmatic albedo (light reflection) patterns on the lunar surface associated with local magnetic anomalies. The processes involved in their formation have been examined and debated since their discovery. The most popular idea is shielding of the surface from solar wind radiation by the associated magnetic anomaly. This explains the swirling pattern, as shielded material would be brighter than radiated materials outside the magnetic field. However, the spectral properties don't always match what is expected of shielded materials.

Another hypothesis is that dust that is electrostatically levitated is preferentially segregated and trapped by the magnetic field. The electrostatically-levitated lunar dust is the smallest size portion of lunar dust , which on the moon is intrinsically made of brighter minerals than the larger sizes which are more difficult to electrostatically move.

The darker dust includes small inclusions (tiny pieces of material inside a grain made of a different material than the grain itself) of nanometer-scale iron, which is thought to be magnetically separated and deposited in the dark areas of the swirls. Ironically, one way to produce this nanometer-scale iron is by solar wind radiation.

So, which is it? One approach to answering this question is to examine the texture of the surface. The texture is the soil grain-to-grain (or in this case dust-to-dust) roughness and porosity and the structures within the grains (such as inclusions). A group of PSI scientists examined the texture of the surface in a region in Mare Ingenii using the tools of photometric analysis.

Photometric analysis is based on how material scatters light and how those scattering properties change as the illumination (angle of the sunlight to the surface) and viewing (position of your spacecraft) geometries change. What they discovered is that the grain-to-grain roughness was similar across the swirl region, but that the soil in the dark lanes have grains with a more complicated structure.

In addition, they also show that the composition between the bright and dark areas are different, following the expectations from dust collection and segregation.

"The evidence, which includes recent correlation of topographic lows with the bright areas of the swirls, tells a story that more than one process is involved in their formation," said lead author Deborah Domingue. "We definitely see evidence that the bright areas are less radiated, but this doesn't explain all the properties of the swirls. Something else is operating, and the textures suggest dust collection and segregation are part of the tale."
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Credit: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain

Australian high school students enrolled in STEM subjects don't read or learn about nearly as many prominent female scientists compared to their male counterparts, according to new research from Curtin University and The Australian National University (ANU).

The study shows school science lessons fail to mention the contributions of women in STEM and instead focus almost exclusively on a male-centric narrative. It found only three states or territories mentioned the work of a female science leader in their school curricula.

According to the authors, only one female scientist, British chemist Rosalind Franklin, was named in coursework in Queensland, South Australia and the Northern Territory. All other states and territories exclusively referenced the contributions of male scientists. This work was conducted as part of the IncludeHer movement, an initiative founded by Dr. Kat Ross in 2018 that aims to increase the number of women and gender minorities in STEM fields. It is published in the Australian Journal of Education.

Lead researcher Dr. Ross from Curtin University said the lack of female representation in science curriculums across the country was both alarming and inaccurate.

"This focus on a sole male genius is common throughout the Australian national syllabus, and we could only find one unique female scientist mentioned," Dr. Ross said.

"We know participation rates of girls in STEM are low compared to boys, and this gender gap in the science heroes they learn about at school is likely a contributing factor."

Summary of number of names of scientists named for each STEM course and state the scientific concept is the focus of the sentence mention (left) and where the scientist is the focus of the mention (right). Mentions of women are indicated by dark shading; mentions of men are indicated by light shading. Credit: Australian Journal of Education (2023). DOI: 10.1177/00049441231197245

Study co-author Dr. Andrew Battisti from ANU said it is vital for female students to have role models to look up to in order to spur their interest in the sciences.

"Seeing role models in STEM fields that align with a student's identity can help to provide positive reinforcement that they themselves belong in STEM," Dr. Battisti said.

"In fact, my own choice to become an astronomer was strongly influenced by a high school science teacher fascinated by astronomy, whom I saw as a role model."

ANU Ph.D. researcher Tegan Clark said the imbalance of gender representation in Australian classrooms must be urgently addressed to ensure Australia's future as an aspiring STEM powerhouse.

"Off the back of our findings, the Queensland Curriculum Assessment Authority (QCAA) has taken positive steps to address the gender representation of scientists in the current senior science syllabuses," Clark said.

"The QCAA have since released drafts versions of new senior science syllabuses which now include meaningful mentions of scientists who are women, striking a better balance in gender representation, as well as providing modern examples of science."

The study also found an almost exclusive focus on European discoveries and research in STEM fields. The authors argue this could negatively impact students from culturally and linguistically diverse communities and contribute to lower levels of self-confidence and belonging.

"For children to develop a positive sense of identity and belonging, it's important for them to have access to accurate and authentic role models related to their gender and cultural backgrounds throughout their lives," Dr. Ross said.

The study analyzed the curriculum of four year 11 and year 12 STEM subjects taught in Australian schoolsbiology, chemistry, physics and environmental science.

More information: Kathryn Ross et al, Invisible women: Gender representation in high school science courses across Australia, Australian Journal of Education (2023). DOI: 10.1177/00049441231197245
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Residents of Steinhatchee, a small coastal town in Florida's Big Bend region, have been ordered to evacuate ahead of Idalia's arrival.

Hurricane Idalia intensified late Tuesday as it hurtled towards northwest Florida, threatening "catastrophic" impacts including dangerous storm surge, with officials forecasting it will slam the coast within hours as an extreme and historic Category 4 storm.

Authorities in the southern US state described Idalia and its potentially deadly storm surge as a once-in-a-lifetime event for the state's northwest coast, as they ordered mass evacuations and issued flood alerts ahead of a projected landfall early Wednesday.

The US National Hurricane Center (NHC) said Idalia, which earlier raked western Cuba, had strengthened to the top of Category 2 status by 11:00 pm Tuesday (0300 GMT Wednesday) with winds of 110 miles (177 kilometers) per hour.

Warm waters in the Gulf of Mexico are expected to further turbocharge Idalia, which is "forecast to be an extremely dangerous Category 4 intensity at landfall," with wind speeds of 130 to 156 miles per hour, the NHC said.

It warned of potentially disastrous storm surge inundation of 10 to 16 feet (3-5 meters) in some coastal areas.

"Very few people can survive being in the path of a major storm surge, and this storm will be deadly if we don't get out of harm's way and take it seriously," said Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) chief Deanne Criswell.

Storms that are Category 3 or higher on the five-level Saffir-Simpson scale are considered to be major weather events.

In the small coastal town of Steinhatchee, resident Robert Bryant was making final preparations to evacuate inland with his two cats and a dog.

Idalia is expected to make landfall as a major Category 3 hurricane.

"We are out on the water, so we are going to be the worst ones to get hit," said the 18-year-old student, whose home built on stilts is close to the mouth of a river.

"Hopefully, it just blows over and we have a bit of wind... but you prepare for the worst and hope for the best," he told AFP.

The nearby cities of Tampa and St. Petersburg, part of a metropolitan area that is home to more than three million people, are of particular concern, authorities said.

"There's a danger of life-threatening storm surge along portions of the Florida Gulf Coast from Tampa Bay to the Big Bend region," said Matthew Payne of FEMA's Office of Response and Recovery.

Idalia was already battering parts of Florida, with flooding seen in Fort Myers Beach south of Tampa.

Leave 'now'

Governor Ron DeSantis urged those in the evacuation areas in 23 counties along Florida's Gulf coast to go "now," and head to shelters or hotels outside the danger zones.

He said the hurricane appeared to be the strongest to impact the region in more than a century.

People ride a bicycle through a flooded street in Havana, on August 29, 2023, during the passage of storm Idalia.

Meteorologists are also pointing to a rare blue supermoon which could further raise tides above normal levels just as Idalia pounds the coastline.

Almost 150 people were killed last year when Hurricane Ian slammed Florida's west coast as a devastating Category 4 storm, bringing ocean surges and heavy winds that downed bridges and swept away buildings.

Idalia is expected to make landfall farther north along the coast, in the so-called Big Bend areaa vast marshy region which, unlike most other coastal areas around Florida, does not have barrier islands.

The storm is forecast to dump up to 12 inches (30 centimeters) of rain in parts of the Florida panhandle, potentially triggering flash and urban flooding, and tornadoes were also possible along Florida's west central coast through Tuesday night, according to the NHC.

"You are going to see a lot of debristhere's a lot of trees along that track," said DeSantis, who has suspended his presidential campaign to handle the crisis.

US President Joe Biden spoke with DeSantis on Monday and approved an emergency declaration for the state, which unblocks federal funds and resources.

"We'll make sure they have everything they need," Biden said. FEMA has already sent hundreds of emergency personnel into the storm zone.

Tampa International Airport closed ahead of Idalia's arrival, while flights were disrupted along the US east coast as another hurricane, Franklin, churns in the Atlantic.

This image obtained from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), shows Hurricane Idalia (C R) moving into the Gulf of Mexico on August 29, 2023.

'Marine heat wave'

Georgia and South Carolina are also under storm watches as Idalia is expected to cross northeast over Florida before exiting into the Atlantic.

All three states could see flooding Wednesday or Thursday, with Idalia likely maintaining hurricane force across Georgia, the NHC said.

In Cuba, the storm flooded several communities including parts of the capital Havana and knocked out power to about 200,000 people but there were no deaths reported.

The storm then moved out over the Gulf, which scientists say is experiencing a "marine heat wave"energizing Idalia's winds as it raced towards Florida.

Scientists have warned that storms are becoming more powerful as the world warms due to climate change.

 2023 AFP
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Map of Greece showing burnt areas and active fires around Alexandroupoli and Athens as of August 28.

A forest blaze in Greece is "the largest wildfire ever recorded in the EU" and the bloc is mobilizing nearly half its firefighting air wing to tackle it, a European Commission spokesman said Tuesday.

Firefighters have been battling the flames for 11 days in northeastern Greece which have killed at least 20 people and pose an "ecological disaster".

Eleven planes and one helicopter from the EU fleet have been sent to help Greece counter the fire, north of the city of Alexandroupoli, along with 407 firefighters, spokesman Balazs Ujvari said.

The EU's civil protection service said the fire has burnt over 810 square kilometers (310 square miles)an area bigger than New York City.

"This wildfire is the largest in the EU since 2000, when the European Forest Fire Information System (EFFIS) began recording data," the service said.

Since it began on August 19, the bodies of 20 people have been found, 18 of them migrants including two children that were discovered in a region often used as an entry point from neighboring Turkey.

Greece's fire service told AFP that the blaze was "still out of control" in the northeast region's Dadia National Park, a major sanctuary for birds of prey.

A large fire previously hit the park in 2011, forest ranger Dora Skartsis said, lamenting that "everything that was regenerated since has been lost" in recent days.

"We're talking about a huge ecological disaster. The image is tragic," said Skartsis, who also heads a biodiversity protection group in the region.

The forest also plays a vital economic role in supporting logging, beekeeping and tourism activities in Evros, one of the poorest regions of the country.

In Alexandroupoli alone, at least 4,000 sheep and goats have been killed in the blaze and warehouses containing animal feed destroyed, according to Kostas Dounakis, who heads the local cattle breeders' association.

The EU's civil protection service said the fire in northeastern Greece has burnt over 810 square kilometres (310 square miles).

Deadly impact

The European Union currently calls on a fleet of 28 aircraft24 water-dumping planes and four helicopterssupplied by member countries to help battle blazes in the bloc and in nearby neighbors.

It is working on creating a standalone, EU-funded air wing of 12 aircraft that will be fully in place by 2030.

"We do know that fires are getting more severe," Ujvari noted.

"If you look at the figures every year in the past years, we are seeing trends which are not necessarily favorable, and that calls for, of course, more capacities at the member states' level."

Greece has been ravaged by numerous fires this summer which the government attributes to climate change.

The EU air deployment "underscores our commitment to swift and effective collective action in times of crisis," the EU's commissioner for crisis management, Janez Lenarcic, said.

Looking beyond the fire season, Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis met several ministries on Tuesday to discuss the necessary reforestation of the region once the blaze is extinguished.

Environment Minister Theodoros Skylakakis also announced that work must begin on flood prevention to prevent landslides along the now barren terrain when rains return in the autumn.

 2023 AFP
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Kakapo in burrow. Credit: Jake Osborne

High-quality sequencing of nearly the entire kakapo population is helping New Zealand to manage the health of this critically endangered species.

Not only is it already making a difference to kakapo survival, but establishing sequencing methods to work with populations under threat is also likely to be the foundation for the future of endangered wildlife science in New Zealand and the rest of the world.

The state-of-the-art methods developed by Dr. Joseph Guhlin (University of Otago) and an international team to study kakapo has revealed important aspects of kakapo biology. The methods, reusable code, and pipeline is a blueprint and tool for conservation genomics in other species, especially intensively managed species. The research results have been published in Nature Ecology and Evolution.

Dr. Guhlin's work over the last year had two very significant outcomes. First, it makes available an in-depth understanding of kakapo biology that simply would not be possible without genomics. And second, it provides a high-quality code and reusable pipelineallowing other researchers to rapidly integrate these methods into their own workwhich has significantly advanced New Zealand's genomic capability.

This has given researchers the tools needed to identify specific genetic characteristics that are crucial to survival.

"Using technology created by Google, we have achieved what is likely the highest quality variant dataset for any endangered species in the world. This dataset is made available, through DOC and Ngai Tahu, for future researchers working with kakapo," Dr. Guhlin said.

Department of Conservation's Science Advisor for Kakapo Recovery, Dr. Andrew Digby, believes the genetic tools this study provides will make an immense difference to kakapo conservation.

"Kakapo suffer from disease and low reproductive output, so by understanding the genetic reasons for these problems, we can now help mitigate them. It gives us the ability to predict things like kakapo chick growth and susceptibility to disease, which changes our on-the-ground management practices and will help improve survival rates."

While the study marks the beginning of a new era of kakapo conservation genetics, Dr. Digby acknowledges what it means for the future of all threatened species.

"The Kakapo125+ project is a great example of how genetic data can assist population growth. The novel genetic and machine learning tools developed can be applied to improve the productivity and survival of other taonga under conservation management."

More information: Joseph Guhlin et al, Species-wide genomics of kakapo provides tools to accelerate recovery, Nature Ecology & Evolution (2023). DOI: 10.1038/s41559-023-02165-y Journal information: Nature Ecology & Evolution
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Lahaina detail. Credit: Michigan State University

Michigan State University researchers have produced new detailed maps of the devastating fires in Maui, which can be used to help work out where and when the fires occurred to guide where postfire remediation activities should be prioritized and to assess future fire risk.

The researchers created the maps using high-resolution commercial satellite images from Planet Labs PBC, an American public Earth imaging company based in San Francisco, California.

A sequence of images acquired from Aug. 3 to 13 was used to map the area burned at 3-by-3-meter resolution. According to David Roy, director of MSU's Center for Global Change and Earth Observations, the images offer a breakthrough for fire mapping from space.

"By using the Planet Labs images and a new artificial intelligence algorithm, we can map the area burned in much greater detail than before," Roy said. "The only global coverage burned area products processed on a systematic basis are generated by NASA, and map burned areas at 500 by 500 meters, which is a much coarser level of detail."

Roy is a member of the NASA science team that developed and maintains the global burned area product that has been used for the last 20 years to map fires from space at 500-by-500-meter resolution. Along with MSU colleagues Haiyan Huang, assistant professor, and Hugo De Lemos, postdoctoral research associate, Roy is developing new mapping algorithms funded by NASA.

Maui 2. Credit: Michigan State University

"When combined with satellite detections of actively burning fires, the patterns of fire across Maui are quite evident from our maps. The active fire detections superimposed on the burned area map show that the fires were burning in the East and continued to burn there, while the fires in Lahaina occurred later," De Lemos said.

"The fire radiative power is related to the fire intensity, and the maps show that intense fires were burning across the island, although the cause is still being investigated," Huang said.

The MSU research team discussed their maps with colleagues at the University of Hawaii at Manoa. Clay Trauernicht, an expert in ecosystems and fire at the university, noted that the fires burned so rapidly because of the windy and dry conditions and the presence of large amounts of non-native grasses that grew in previous wet years.

"If there's any silver lining, it is that the vegetation can be manipulated in the future to reduce fire risk and create safer conditions for firefighters and our communities," Trauernicht said.

Fire radiative power. Credit: Michigan State University

Tomoaki Miura, head of the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Management at the University of Hawaii at Manoa, said that "New detailed satellite-derived maps like these will play an increasingly valuable role for synoptic assessment of fire and postfire remediation."

"As we see climate and land use changes create new conditions conducive to wildfires, satellite technology will help us make better decisions to guide the rebuilding process after wildfires. It also will help scientists to model and understand the drivers and constraints on fire and, hopefully, prevent future catastrophic damage," Roy said.
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This image from video provided by the Indian Space Research Organisation shows the surface of the moon as the Chandrayaan-3 spacecraft prepares for landing on Wednesday, Aug. 23, 2023. India became the first country to land a spacecraft near the moons south pole, which scientists believe could hold vital reserves of frozen water. Credit: ISRO via AP

India's moon rover confirmed the presence of sulfur and detected several other elements near the lunar south pole as it searches for signs of frozen water nearly a week after its historic moon landing, India's space agency said Tuesday.

The rover's laser-induced spectroscope instrument also detected aluminum, iron, calcium, chromium, titanium, manganese, oxygen and silicon on the lunar surface, the Indian Space Research Organization, or ISRO, said in a post on its website.

The lunar rover had come down a ramp from the lander of India's spacecraft after last Wednesday's touchdown near the moon's south pole. The Chandrayan-3 Rover is expected to conduct experiments over 14 days, the ISRO has said.

The rover "unambiguously confirms the presence of sulfur," ISRO said. It also is searching for signs of frozen water that could help future astronaut missions, as a potential source of drinking water or to make rocket fuel.

The rover also will study the moon's atmosphere and seismic activity, ISRO Chairman S. Somnath said.

On Monday, the rover's route was reprogrammed when it came close to a 4-meter-wide (13-foot-wide) crater. "It's now safely heading on a new path," the ISRO said.

The craft moves at a slow speed of around 10 centimeters (4 inches) per second to minimize shock and damage to the vehicle from the moon's rough terrain.

This image from video provided by the Indian Space Research Organisation shows the surface of the moon as the Chandrayaan-3 spacecraft prepares for landing on Wednesday, Aug. 23, 2023. India became the first country to land a spacecraft near the moons south pole, which scientists believe could hold vital reserves of frozen water. Credit: ISRO via AP

After a failed attempt to land on the moon in 2019, India last week joined the United States, the Soviet Union and China as only the fourth country to achieve this milestone.

The successful mission showcases India's rising standing as a technology and space powerhouse and dovetails with the image that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is trying to project: an ascendant country asserting its place among the global elite.

The mission began more than a month ago at an estimated cost of $75 million.

India's success came just days after Russia's Luna-25, which was aiming for the same lunar region, spun into an uncontrolled orbit and crashed. It would have been the first successful Russian lunar landing after a gap of 47 years. Russia's head of the state-controlled space corporation Roscosmos attributed the failure to the lack of expertise due to the long break in lunar research that followed the last Soviet mission to the moon in 1976.

Active since the 1960s, India has launched satellites for itself and other countries, and successfully put one in orbit around Mars in 2014. India is planning its first mission to the International Space Station next year, in collaboration with the United States.

 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
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An Atlantic puffin brings a beak full of baitfish to feed its chick in a burrow under rocks on Eastern Egg Rock, a small island off mid-coast Maine, Sunday, Aug. 5, 2023. Scientists who monitor seabirds said Atlantic puffins had their second consecutive rebound year for fledging chicks after suffering a bad 2021. Credit: AP Photo/Robert F. Bukaty

On remote islands off the Maine coast, a unique bird held its own this year in the face of climate change.

Atlantic puffinsclownish seabirds with colorful bills and waddling gaitshad their second consecutive rebound year for fledging chicks after suffering a catastrophic 2021, said scientists who monitor the birds. The news flies in the face of environmental trends, as scientists have said warming waters off New England jeopardize the birds because that reduces the kind of fish they need to feed their chicks.

One fish, thoughthe sand lancehas remained in abundance this year, allowing puffins to thrive, said Don Lyons, director of conservation science at National Audubon Society's Seabird Institute in Bremen, Maine. He said it's a sign the impact of climate change on ecosystems is not always as tidy as we think.

The encouraging news comes as the Audubon Society is celebrating its 50th anniversary of tending to Maine's puffin colonies, which it restored from just a few dozen pairs. There are now as many as 3,000 birds, and the population is stable, Lyons said.

"This year is a good example of how complex things are. We can't boil it down to one variable," he said. "We still have a lot to learn."

A biologist holds a healthy Atlantic puffin chick on Eastern Egg Rock, Maine, Sunday, Aug. 5, 2023. Scientists who monitor seabirds said Atlantic puffins had their second consecutive rebound year for fledging chicks after suffering a bad 2021. Credit: AP Photo/Robert F. Bukaty

The puffinsalso known as "clowns of the sea" or "sea parrots"nest in burrows and feed their chicks small fish such as herring. Two years ago, the colonies suffered one of their worst years for reproduction in decades due to a lack of those fish. Only about a quarter of the birds were able to raise chicks that summer.

Audubon and other conservation groups have tied the fish shortage to warming ocean temperatures. The Gulf of Maine, which has puffin colonies on its islands, is warming faster than most of the world's oceans, and some recent years have been especially warm. The early part of this summer appears to have been "still unusually warm," said David Reidmiller, climate center director at Gulf of Maine Research Institute in Portland, Maine.

About two-thirds of the puffins fledged chicks last year, Lyons said. The birds did not equal that number this year, he said, but they again had a better year than 2021 despite a less than ideal summer of hot, rainy conditions.

An Atlantic puffin chick is held by a biologist before being measured and banded on Eastern Egg Rock, Maine, Sunday, Aug. 5, 2023. Scientists who monitor seabirds said Atlantic puffins had their second consecutive rebound year for fledging chicks after suffering a bad 2021. Credit: AP Photo/Robert F. Bukaty

The puffins' ability to reproduce despite environmental changes speaks to the resiliency of seabirds, said Bill Sydeman, president and chief scientist of the Farallon Institute, a marine preservation organization based in California. However, the long-term dangers posed by climate changesuch as fatal heat waves, loss of food, loss of islands to sea level rise and inability to breedremain existential threats to puffins and many other seabirds, he said.

"The problem with climate change is these breeding failures and low breeding productivity years are now becoming chronic," Sydeman said. "There will be fewer young birds in the population that are able to recruit into the breeding population."

Maine's puffins are the only breeding Atlantic puffins in the U.S. Worldwide, the species lives in the North Atlantic from Maine and Canada to Europe. Other countries with large puffin populations, such as Iceland, have seen the birds decline in number in recent decades.

An Atlantic puffin flies with baitfish to feed its chick on Eastern Egg Rock, Maine, Sunday, Aug. 5, 2023. Scientists who monitor seabirds said Atlantic puffins had their second consecutive rebound year for fledging chicks after suffering a bad 2021. Credit: AP Photo/Robert F. Bukaty

The Maine puffin population once dwindled to only about 70 pairs on tiny Matinicus Rock. Hunters who pursued the birds for their meat and feathers had nearly wiped them out by the early 1900s. Stephen Kress, an Audubon ornithologist, sought to grow puffin colonies starting in the 1970s by relocating chicks from Canada to Eastern Egg Rock, another tiny island.

Today, puffins live on Matinicus as well as Eastern Egg Rock, Seal Island and Petit Manan Island. On a recent trip to Eastern Egg Rock, located off St. George, dozens of puffins delighted tour boats as they took off in flight and dove into the water in pursuit of fish.

The adult birds in the colonies appear fairly robust, and it's "likely the population is stable, and it could still be growing," Lyons said.

The effects of climate change on seabirds have been a focus of scientific inquiry in recent years. Interest in the subject has accelerated because of die-offs of some of the puffin's auk family relatives, such ascommon murres and Cassin's auklets off the West Coast.

An Atlantic puffin comes in for a landing while bringing in fish to feed its chick on Eastern Egg Rock, Maine, Sunday, Aug. 5, 2023. Scientists who monitor seabirds said Atlantic puffins had their second consecutive rebound year for fledging chicks after suffering a bad 2021. Credit: AP Photo/Robert F. Bukaty

A biologist holds a small fish dropped by an adult puffin near its nesting burrow on Eastern Egg Rock, Maine, Sunday, Aug. 5, 2023. Scientists who monitor seabirds said Atlantic puffins had their second consecutive rebound year for fledging chicks after suffering a bad 2021. Credit: AP Photo/Robert F. Bukaty

An Atlantic puffin clamps down on baitfish it will feed to a chick on Eastern Egg Rock, Maine, Sunday, Aug. 5, 2023. Scientists who monitor seabirds said Atlantic puffins had their second consecutive rebound year for fledging chicks after suffering a bad 2021. Credit: AP Photo/Robert F. Bukaty

A biologists's affection for puffins is tattooed on her arm on Eastern Egg Rock, Maine, Sunday, Aug. 5, 2023. Scientists who monitor seabirds said Atlantic puffins had their second consecutive rebound year for fledging chicks after suffering a bad 2021. Credit: AP Photo/Robert F. Bukaty

A puffin watch tour boat is positioned off Eastern Egg Rock, Maine, Sunday, Aug. 5, 2023. Scientists who monitor seabirds said Atlantic puffins had their second consecutive rebound year for fledging chicks after suffering a bad 2021. Credit: AP Photo/Robert F. Bukaty

An Atlantic puffin flies by the sparkling waters off Eastern Egg Rock, Maine, Sunday, Aug. 5, 2023. Scientists who monitor seabirds said Atlantic puffins had their second consecutive rebound year for fledging chicks after suffering a bad 2021. Credit: AP Photo/Robert F. Bukaty

The challenges faced by seabirds make successful breeding seasons especially important, said P. Dee Boersma, a University of Washington professor of biology and director of the university's Center for Ecosystem Sentinels.

"What that means is we should be more cautious and concerned about reproductive failures and things like that to make sure that in good years everyone that wants to has a chance to breed, and do well," Boersma said.

 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
Law to stop jump-start at preschool

Global Times) 11:04, August 29, 2023

With luggage in hand, children enter a kindergarten in Qionghai, Hainan province, on Monday. Some parents accompanied their children in the kindergarten to help them get comfortable with the new environment. MENG ZHONGDE/FOR CHINA DAILY

Draft specifies that children not to be taught primary school knowledge

China plans to ban kindergartens from teaching primary school knowledge, and the top priority of kindergartens is to ensure students' safety, a draft law said on Monday.

The draft law on preschool education is being deliberated for the first time at a session of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress held from Monday to Friday. It is the first national law on preschool education, and a draft usually becomes a law after being reviewed by the NPC Standing Committee three times.

There should be no enrollment test to get into kindergarten, and other than physical checks, kindergartens are not allowed to organize any tests or checks for students, the draft said.

The main activities for preschool pupils are playing games, and kindergartens should help students form good morality, behavioral habits, safety awareness and a healthy body, the draft said.

Kindergarten pupils should not participate in any competitions not in line with their mental and physical development stage, according to the draft.

Families and kindergartens should properly supervise pupils when they use the internet and control the time they spend on the internet and on electronic devices, it said.

The draft also stipulated that kindergarten teachers must have obtained teaching credentials before they assume their positions, and background and health checks must be conducted before hiring.

Those who have criminal records, or have been dealt with for abuse, sexual assault, violence, a history of drug use, alcoholism, gambling and mental illness cannot work as kindergarten teachers, the draft added.

The draft also asked local governments to open public kindergartens and support private kindergartens to offer affordable preschool education.

Newly established residential communities must be equipped with affiliated public kindergartens, it said.

Social capital is banned from taking a controlling stake in public kindergartens and nonprofit private kindergartens. Kindergartens are not allowed to be listed on the domestic or foreign stock market. Listed companies cannot invest in for-profit private kindergartens or buy assets from them through issuing equity or paying cash, the draft added.

Huai Jinpeng, minister of education, said that although preschool education has developed rapidly in recent years, it is still the weak link in the country's education system.

It is difficult for some people to get their children enrolled in preschool, and some kindergartens are very expensive, he said, adding that there is still a lack of affordable kindergartens.

According to the Ministry of Education, the gross enrollment rate of kindergartens last year reached 89.7 percent, up by 1.6 percentage points from a year earlier.

The country has 289,200 kindergartens and around 85 percent of them are affordable kindergartens. There were more than 46.2 million kindergarten pupils and 3.24 million kindergarten teachers last year.

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun)
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, August 28)  Interior Secretary Benhur Abalos said criminal cases should be filed against the driver who drew a gun on an unarmed cyclist, adding "there must be consequences" for such kind of actions.

"For the sake of a peaceful and orderly society, we cannot allow a culture of impunity," Abalos said on Monday. "We cannot allow bullies to just go around intimidating people with deadly weapons. There must be consequences here."

On Aug. 8, a motorist identified as Wilfredo Gonzales hit a cyclist on the head and drew a handgun after the biker bumped his vehicle. This was seen in a now-deleted video that went viral on Sunday.

Gonzales said he had already settled the issue with the biker before the video went viral. He, however, did not disclose details of their agreement.

"Even if the victim won't testify, criminal cases can still be filed if another witness comes forward," said Abalos who is a lawyer.

"For example, the person that took the viral video, or other bystanders during the incident, can establish that they were at the scene, and identify the perpetrator and the acts that he committed," he added. "At the very least, a case for alarm and scandal could be filed."

The Philippine National Police (PNP) confirmed that based on their records, Gonzales is a former police officer. He was dismissed in 2018.

His gun permits were revoked on Sunday, and authorities confiscated three more guns in his possession on Monday.

Abalos also said the National Police Commission (Napolcom) will monitor the PNP's response to the incident.

"In case of any inaction by the PNP's handling officers, the PNP's Internal Affairs Service would investigate," Abalos said.

"The Napolcom may step in, if warranted," he added. "In any case, rest assured that the Napolcom will do its utmost to pursue the cause of justice."

Sen. JV Ejercito also said the driver should still face a complaint for grave threats, as "drawing a gun against a helpless, unarmed cyclist" is "unforgivable."

"As a cyclist, I will not let this pass. Hindi dapat makalusot ang mga sigang pulis! Hindi na 'yan uso! Dapat makasuhan din ito sa korte at ipakulong nang hindi na ito tularan! Hindi ka dapat palagpasin!" he said.

[Translation: Arrogant police officers should not get away with their actions! He should be charged in the court and be imprisoned so that he would not be emulated!]

Sen. Bong Go also urged gun owners to be responsible.

"Dapat sila maging magandang ehemplo. Nagserbisyo sila bilang pulis. Tinuruan naman sila paano maging responsible gun holder," he said. "Wag niyong gamitin sa mga inosente, gamitin niyo sa mga kriminal."

[Translation: They should be good examples. They served as police officers. They were taught how to be responsible gun holders. Don't use firearms against the innocent, but against criminals.]
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Hurricanes Franklin and Idalia will stay hundreds of miles away from the Jersey Shore. Still, well reap the woes, with coastal flooding, rip currents and rough seas through the week. Unrelated heavy downpours will be around through Wednesday, too.

Lets break this down by impact.

Coastal flooding

Monday afternoon and evening saw minor stage tidal flooding, with nuisance issues across the area.

Well get more of the same Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday. It could go into the weekend.

For the week, well see up to three hours of coastal flooding at some point between 7 p.m. and 1 a.m., later in the back bays, later as the days go on.

What's the difference between minor, moderate and major flood stage? Coastal flooding brings anything from water on the side of the road to life and property dam

For the most part, this will be minor flood stage. This is the type of flooding we see a few dozen times a year.

The one exception may be the Tuesday evening high tide. In Cape May County, it may touch moderate flood stage. That would start to bring property damage, especially if cars drive through the salt water and create wakes. Expect roads to close if it reaches moderate.

Remember, do not drive through flood water. Not only can it push water into peoples houses, but it will corrode your car.

This is caused by a few factors. We have Hurricane Franklin churning up the waters through midweek. Then, Hurricane Idalia will do the same during the later part of the week.

Find tide times, coastal flooding forecast for the Jersey Shore here Below are Jersey Shore locations with previous and forecast tide data. The forecasts show wh

Also, we have the full moon Wednesday, which is also a super moon and a blue moon for the first time since 2018 and the last time until 2037. This will bring higher than usual high tides (as well as lower than usual low tides).

Were getting a little lucky. If Franklin or Idalia were to wind up closer to New Jersey, wed have a weeks worth of moderate stage flooding, something we havent had in years.

Rip currents and rough seas

Its always important, but if theres one takeaway from this forecast, its to swim only where lifeguards say it is OK to do so. A high risk of rip currents will be around Tuesday into Wednesday, decreasing into the latter half of the week.

Multiple swell groups and higher wave heights, due to the storms, will contribute to this.

Avoid heading to the canyons for an overnight stay this week. I know its the last week of summer, but there will be plenty of better conditions in September.

Rain with heavy downpours will be around Tuesday and Wednesday. This will not be from the hurricanes themselves, but Franklin is pushing a warm front from the Carolinas our way. The front will bring the rain. Rain will fall through about 9 a.m. Tuesday. Then, look for just spotty showers and storms into the rest of the day, mainly south of the Atlantic City Expressway, closer to the warm front.

In areas north of the expressway, like Port Republic, your outdoor plans should be OK. South of there, like Longport, use caution. The plans you have should be able to handle quick downpours.

Tuesday night will be dry, though muggy. A line of showers will slowly pass between 8 a.m. and 1 p.m. Youll have plenty of dry time, but the ground should be wet Wednesday afternoon. Any flooding will be likely in areas of multiple heavy downpours.

Other weather to note

Mornings will start out around 70 degrees Tuesday and Wednesday. Highs will stay cooler than average, in the mid- to upper 70s Tuesday. Warmer air aloft will send highs into the 80s Wednesday.
In the Region

There is a new name in Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoevs presidential administration  his daughter Saida Mirziyoeva.

Presidential Press Secretary Sherzod Asadov announced new government appointments on August 25. The presidents 38-year-old daughter is now head of the presidential administration.

The move had been expected after Sardor Umurzakov was relieved as head of the presidential administration earlier in August.

Another familiar name also appeared on the new line-up of officials.

Komil Allamjonov was announced as the head of the presidential administrations Department for Information Policies.

Allamjonov and Mirzioyeva previously worked together as heads of the Agency for Information and Mass Communications and later in the presidential administrations Fund for Mass Media.

According to RFE/RLs Uzbek Service, Ozodlik, that makes Mirziyoeva and Allamjonov the number two and three people in the presidential administration, respectively, behind the president himself.

President Mirziyoev was elected to a third term in office on July 9 after amendments to the constitution were passed in a national referendum on April 30.

Among the amendments was one which changed the presidential term from five to seven years, which allowed Mirziyoev to run for two more terms.

He was first elected president in December 2016, and again in October 2021.

According to Uzbekistans Constitution, a president can only serve two terms in office, but the amendment extending the presidential term in office allowed Mirziyoev to run for two more terms.



Why Its Important: President Mirziyoev has been talking about creating a new Uzbekistan but appointing his eldest daughter to be head of the administration is reminiscent of the previous Uzbek president and other Central Asian presidents.

Islam Karimov was Uzbekistans first president.

His daughter Gulnara occupied several diplomatic posts, including advisor to the Foreign Ministry, Uzbekistans Ambassador to Spain, and Uzbekistans Permanent Representative to the United Nations.

Tajik President Emomali Rahmons daughter Ozoda has been head of the presidential administration since 2016.

Former Kazakh President Nursultan Nazarbaevs eldest daughter Darigha was a member of parliament and rose to be Speaker of Senate.

Such nepotism added to the unpopularity of Rahmon and Nazarbaev, the same as Gulnara Karimovas appointment to official posts made her father less popular.

Saidas recent promotion is likely to have the same detrimental effect on her father.

While some Central Asian presidents' daughters have risen to prominent posts, the examples of Darigha Nazarbaeva, Ozoda Rahmon, and even Gulnara Karimova show there are limits.

The entrenched patriarchal society of Central Asia makes it difficult for women to be truly considered for the presidency.

Perhaps because of the strong patriarchal society, the resentment against presidents' daughters occupying top posts seems to be deeper than when presidents' sons are given top positions.

Central Asia Paying More Attention to Water

As water becomes more scarce in Central Asia after three consecutive years of drought, its importance for the Central Asian states in increasing.

Kazakhstans Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources said on August 11 that southern Kazakhstans Zhambyl Province has stopped receiving water from Kyrgyzstans Kirov reservoir.

Farmers in Zhambyl said they faced crop failures due to lack of water.

Kyrgyz officials responded that drought had left much of Kyrgyzstan without sufficient water and there simply was not enough water to release from reservoirs.

Kyrgyzstan has also been talking about building a series of new hydropower plants (HPP) and recently seems to have found Chinese companies to invest in the projects.

Kazakh media outlet Informburo wrote about Kyrgyzstan hydropower plant projects on August 25.

The headline Kyrgyzstan is building several HPPs. What will happen with water in Kazakhstan? summed up Kazakhstans view.

Tajik President Emomali Rahmon visited Kazakhstan on August 25.

Water from Tajikistan also flows in the Syr-Darya, one of Central Asias big rivers that passes through Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, and Kazakhstan.

During his meeting with the visiting Tajik president, Kazakh President Qasym-Zhomart Toqaev made a point of thanking Tajikistan for meeting its obligations to release water into the Syr-Darya.

Why Its Important: Kyrgyzstans explanation of why it cannot give Kazakhstan water is reasonable, and Kazakh officials have not openly criticized Kyrgyzstan over the issue.

Eyebrows were raised however when on August 20, Kazakhstan slowed the process of allowing freight trucks from Kyrgyzstan to cross into Kazakhstan.

Kazakhstan is the main transit route for trucks bringing cargo to or from Russia.

Trucks from Kyrgyzstan have encountered problems crossing the Kazakh border before, but some connected the timing of this bottleneck as Kazakh retaliation for not receiving water from Kyrgyzstan.

Usually 20 trucks cross every hour at the Ak Tilek border post, but after August 20 only six were crossing per day.

Kazakh President Toqaev denied the delays were punishment over water and ordered that whatever obstacles were causing the wait at the border be removed, but the lines on the Kyrgyz side of the border continue.

This is an early example of how the issue of water is likely to cause problems in Central Asia, not only for farmers, but for relations between the Central Asian governments.

The Latest Majlis Podcast

This weeks Majlis podcast looks at Kazakhstans plans to build its first nuclear power plant as many in the country still grapple with the countrys past as a testing site for the Soviet Unions atomic bombs.

August 29 is the anniversary of the first test of an atomic bomb in Kazakhstan and 455 more tests were conducted there before the site closed in 1991.

Joining me to discuss Kazakhstans nuclear legacy as Kazakh officials move forward on construction of a nuclear power plant is Togzhan Kassenova, author of widely acclaimed book Atomic Steppe: How Kazakhstan Gave Up the Bomb.

What I'm Following

Tajikistan Doubles Price for Avoiding Military Service

The cost for those opting to avoid service in Tajikistans military is about to double.

Currently, those who do not wish to be conscripted into the military can pay the state 28,560 somoni (about $2,600), but it is set to increase to 51,000 somoni (about $4,650).

The average monthly wage in Tajikistan is about 1,900 somoni (about $170), while the minimum monthly wage is around 400 somoni ($36.50).

NGOs Fighting Internet Shutdowns in Kazakhstan

A group of Kazakh NGOs started a campaign against Internet shutdowns in Kazakhstan.

The NGOs are Media Net, the Rights Media Center, Civil Expertise, Wings of Freedom, Eurasian Digital Foundation, Digital Paradigm, and Internet Freedom Qazaqstan.

The NGOs are calling on the Kazakh government to remove legislation that allows authorities to block or slow access to the Internet.

Fact of the Week

The independent Kazakhstan International Bureau for Human Rights and Rule of Law (KIBHR) is marking its 30-year anniversary this week.

The KIBHR has been a vital organization in the fight for rights in Kazakhstan.

Its anniversary celebration in Almaty was attended by some of the leading figures involved in Central Asia, including the EU special representative for Central Asia, Tehri Hakala.

Thanks for Reading

Thanks for reading Central Asia in Focus! I appreciate you sharing it with other readers who may be interested.



Feel free to contact me on Twitter or by responding to this email, especially if you have any questions, comments, or just want to connect about topics concerning Central Asia. See you next week for more on whats happening in Central Asia.

Until next time,

Bruce
The Supreme Court (SC) on Tuesday stressed that environment and ecology have to be maintained while refusing to pass any urgent direction on the Centres application which had sought release of genetically modified (GM) mustard for seed production and testing.

The environment and ecology has to be maintained.. One year, here or there, does not matter. The environment harm cannot be reversed, told a bench comprising Justices BV Nagarathna and Ujjal Bhuyan to additional solicitor general (ASG) Aishwarya Bhati, the law officer appearing for the Centre.

Centre seeks discharge from undertaking

ASG Bhati requested that the government may be discharged from the status quo undertaking made earlier in November last year in view of the ensuing sowing season in September and October.

At this, the bench said: If we discharge you, what remains in the matter?

She reiterated that the oral undertaking to not release genetically modified (GM) mustard was given in the specific context of the matter being listed for final hearing in the following week.

This is the final last phase after 12 years of research, she said, clarifying that this is not a commercial release. We are keen on not missing the sowing season, urged Bhati.

At this, the bench said: This is only one season- this year. Next year, there is another season, and refused to pass any directions on the application filed by the Central government seeking to alter the status quo undertaking.

Regulatory system needed first: Petitioners counsel

Advocate Prashant Bhushan opposed the Centres application and said that though it is not a commercial release, no environmental trial should be allowed until the whole regulatory system is in place. He apprehended that environmental release could contaminate non-GM crops.

The bench has posted the matter for further hearing on September 26.

Notably, the Centre had submitted an oral undertaking before the apex court, though not formally recorded in courts order, saying that it would not take any precipitative steps on the decision made by the Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC) allowing the environmental release of the GM mustard.

The petitioner, activist Aruna Rodrigues, has opposed the environmental release of genetically modified mustard saying that no one knows about the effect of GM mustard environmental release, which has the potential of contaminating all mustard seeds in the country. IANS
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, August 29)  Another barangay official in Albay was gunned down a few hours after filing his certificate of candidacy in Libon town.

The Bicol Police Regional Office said Alex Repato, 51, was shot dead in front of his house past 5 p.m. on Monday, Aug. 28.

The reelectionist barangay chief earlier went to the local office of the Commission on Elections to file his candidacy.

Authorities said hot pursuit operations are ongoing.

READ: Culture of impunity: Attacks on local officials in first year of Marcos admin

Congressman's appeal

Albay 3rd District Rep. Fernando "Didi" Cabredo, meanwhile, appealed to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to intervene and investigate the killings in Libon town.

"We implore you, as the protector of the Filipino people, to prioritize an urgent investigation and restore peace in Libon," Cabredo read.

"Our last resort is to seek your attention, recognizing your authority to bring an end to this violence. We urge your prompt action to ensure the safety and security of the people in Libon," he added.

The attack on Repato was the fourth against a barangay official in Libon after Barangay Kagawad Reliosa Mata (Nogpo), Barangay Captain Oscar Maronilla (San Pascual), and Barangay Kagawad Salvador Olivares (Bariw).

Data obtained by CNN Philippines from the Commission on Human Rights showed there were 34 cases of attacks on elected officials, and 38 deaths from June 2022 to June 2023.

The agency said these figures do not reflect the total number of alleged killings of local officials under investigation and monitored by law enforcement.

Bicol-based journalist Rosas Olarte contributed to this story.
Augustana College welcomed its largest number of international students to campus this week, with 192 students representing 35 different countries.

Upon arriving at the Quad-Cities International Airport on Monday, the first-year students were met by Augie's Global Ambassadors  seven returning international students who support first-year international students with the transition.

Global Ambassadors undergo a two-week orientation before the school year begins. From there, they act as mentors to the first-year international students and organize events and opportunities for the rest of the year.

Two first-year students from Nepal  Summer Pandey, 20, and Ishan Pyakurel 18  say the GAs have been helpful and welcoming since arriving to the United States.

"When I missed my first flight, I was called by a GA and she helped me a lot," Pandey said. "Settling into America has been pretty easy so far."

The warm welcome was appreciated after an exhausting flight for many.

"The fact that all of the Augustana people were waiting at the airport was really sweet," Pyakurel said. "It was a very smooth transition after that, people were really helpful moving in and carrying bags."

The two also agreed on their first impressions of campus, though Pyakurel wishes the Quad-Cities was more walkable.

"Augustana is a really beautiful place," Pandey said. "It feels really nice and connected to nature, like Nepal was, so it feels like home."

He will run 100-meter sprints for Augie's track team and looks forward to the upcoming season  coming off a gap year, he's nervous about "getting back into the flow of things."

Aitana Garcia, an 18-year-old from Spain, is also navigating some nerves on the academic side.

"I'm excited to start my classes and schedule, learning about what I'm truly interested in and everything," she said. "At the same time, that's also kind of what scares me. I'm pretty good at English, but I'm scared I'm not going to 'get everything' in class correctly. The language barrier can still be a bit challenging, so it scares me to not do as good in a class as I could do."

Xong Sony Yang, director of Augie's Office of International Student and Scholar Services, sees the GAs as a year-long leadership program for international students.

"They're just learning some great professional developments to really take along with them," said Yang. "Not only are they part of the welcome team  they're also the ones teaching these international students to become self-sufficient and resilient."

Case in point: On Tuesday, the GAs taught the first-year students how to navigate and board Quad Cities MetroLINK before taking them on a Target run to buy essentials.

Garcia said she was excited for her first Target run, even snapping a photo before entering.

"My friends were like, 'Oh my god, you're going to Target?'" she said. "You'd always see it in movies, shows or YouTube videos (in Spain), and now I'm actually one of those people shopping here."

The GAs also lead first-year students through job searching, how to apply for a Social Security number and other tasks.

"They're putting on programs once a month with the new international students to make sure they're committed, not only with Augustana, but also with the Quad-City community," Yang said.

"When I first came here, so many things were so new to me," said sophomore Sambriddhi Pandey, now a lead GA from Nepal. "I feel like it can be a very difficult situation for anyone, but the GAs made me feel like it's OK to not know certain things," she said.

That guidance, to Pandey, was important during her college transition  even for small things, like adjusting her dorm room's air conditioning.

"My GA was so helpful to me," she said. "She's one of the reasons I wanted to become one and help others."

Many first-year students take comfort in having the GAs on campus to lean on.

"Having everyone to support me and help me adjust to this life, that feels really nice," said Nhi Nguyen, a 17-year-old from Vietnam. "So far, it's been great. I've met really friendly people here  I'm excited to meet new people."

Some first-year students  like Pyakurel and Garcia  are interested in becoming a GA next year already.

"At first, I was scared that I was going to be alone and no one would talk to me  I never felt alone at all," Garcia said. "It's definitely something like I would love in the future, and I would love to be 'that person' to someone else."

Pandey's advice to the first-years? Don't be afraid to ask for anything.

"You just have to be brave enough, strong enough and not hesitant to ask any questions because we're (GAs) always here," she said. "It's OK to get new experiences, it's OK to stumble on things  you're just going to learn and grow from them."
Mark Rothert has been hired as the new city administrator for East Moline.

Rothert assumed his role as city administrator on Wednesday, Aug. 23, taking over for retiring city administrator Doug Maxenier. Maxenier had served as city administrator since 2019.

According to the news release, Rothert served as the city manager in Pekin, Illinois, where he played a crucial role in modernizing its city operations, leading development initiatives, and securing grant funding for infrastructure projects. East Moline City Council approved the appointment of Rothert in late July.

"I am honored to join the City of East Moline and contribute to its future growth," Rothert said. "I look forward to working collaboratively with the community, city officials and dedicated staff to achieve our shared goals."

Rothert also served as assistant county administrator for Peoria County, lll., from 2012-2017, and executive director of the Spoon River Partnership for Economic Development in Canton, Illinois, from 2006-2012.

He holds a master's degree from the University of Kansas and dual certifications as a credentialed manager through the International City/County Management Association and a Certified Economic Developer by the International Economic Development Council.

"Mark has demonstrated a commitment to effective leadership and community growth," Mayor Reggie Freeman said. "His extensive experience and managerial approach align with East Moline's objectives and will be a great asset to our city."

Photos: Mayor Freeman delivers East Moline State of the City Address
CEDAR RAPIDS  Trent Dirks removes his belt, shoes and items from his pockets and places them in a plastic airport screening bin, while his service dog, Tracer, sits patiently at his side.

A transportation security officer ushers them to a walk-through metal detector and explains the screening process. The white Labrador playfully licks Dirks as he listens.

The man and dog walk through the metal detector together, which alarms from Tracers leash and harness. The security officer directs them to turn around and walk back through. Dirks tells Tracer to sit and puts the leash in the Labs mouth to hold as he walks through the detector by himself. It doesnt alarm this time.

Dirks rejoins Tracer, who has been sitting patiently 6 feet away. Dirks takes the leash out of Tracers mouth. The officer kneels down and gently pats down and inspects Tracers harness. The pair then walks through the detector again together.

The officer swabs Dirks hands with a cotton cloth to test for possible explosives residue.

The walk-through Monday at The Eastern Iowa Airport in Cedar Rapids was part of a screening demonstration organized by Iowa Republican U.S. Rep. Ashley Hinson. Hinson, of Marion, has been working with TSA officials to ease challenges veterans and those with disabilities face when traveling with service animals.

Dirks, a Grundy Center native and retired U.S. Army sergeant, served in Afghanistan and, like many veterans, suffered from post-traumatic stress disorder following his deployment. He found support through Retrieving Freedom in Waverly. The organization trains service dogs for veterans, and Dirks was paired with his canine companion, Tracer, who accompanied him to a hospital for intensive treatment and now lives with him.

Hinson met Dirks and Tracer when she visited Retrieving Freedom in 2021. The duo has inspired her efforts in Congress to improve veterans mental health care access, and she invited Dirks as her guest at this years State of the Union address. Hinson said she learned of some of the challenges Dirks and other veterans with service animals face when going through airport security.

TSA is intimating, regardless of who you are, Dirks told reporters. Or it can be really intimidating, but then you add disabilities or traveling with a four-legged service animal and it just creates additional challenges. You want to make sure that your service animal is properly trained going through TSA or any public space.

One particular worry for those with service animals, Dirks said, is being separated from their animal during the screening process  even if just by feet.

You want to make sure that service animal is properly trained, so you can separate 6-foot between that dog so you can walk through without alarming the metal detector, and the dog behaves and stays in a sitting position, Dirks said. Thats one of the biggest challenges that I face going through TSA. Obviously, Tracer is pretty well trained  but that is a concern, I would say, for someone going through TSA.

TSA will not separate owners from their service animal. Passengers, though, must tell the screening officer that they are traveling with a service animal, and both they and their service animal must go through a metal detector and/or be patted down, according to the agency. If the metal detector alarms, the owner and the service animal will undergo additional screening.

Iowa TSA Federal Security Director John Bright said those who have concerns about screening can ask to speak with a supervisor or passenger support specialist during the process. TSA also offers screening information and assistance to travelers through TSA Cares at (855) 787-2227 and at tsa.gov.

Hinson said one of the reasons she engaged Dirks and the TSA was to establish a standard, so everywhere you travel youre going to experience that same procedure so we make it as easy as possible for veterans and service animals to travel.

Bright said TSA uses a standard operating procedure at all airports when processing service animals through the checkpoint.

Bright encouraged passengers with service animals to contact TSA Cares within 72 hours of their flight so they know what to expect during the airport security screening process, and to provide advance notice to local TSA officials.

With the COVID-19 national emergency over, we want more people to be traveling and feel comfortable doing so, Hinson said.

No matter what challenge you may face, whether its a disability that requires you have a service animal, or a medical challenge (such as insulin pumps)  we just want to make sure people feel comfortable traveling and know what their options are, she said.

Overall, Dirks said his experience going through TSA security Monday went well. Beyond TSA screening, Dirks said there are also inconsistencies among airlines and it can be very challenging trying to navigate an airlines policies and procedures flying with and registering a service animal.

And each airline is different in what they require to register a service animal to fly, he said.

9 unusual things confiscated by TSA 'Someone tried to bring THAT on a plane?!' Boa constrictor Breadfruit...with baby oil Eels and nearly 200 sea creatures Ceremonial scissors Pet turtle Freddy Krueger gloves Maggots in a suitcase Shark in a jar Antique cannonball
An unexpected conversation with a college acquaintance this past week has me thinking about the power of words.

I first met Bill 40 years ago when I was a freshman in college. I was going through a rough time. I was away from home for the first time and was a assigned a roommate that I just couldnt stand.

Bill was a community college transfer from the Chicago suburbs. He had grown up in a devout home but wasnt regularly attending church. One day, I was sitting in the laundromat in the basement of my dorm when he came and sat beside me.

He asked what I was reading and I told him it was the New Testament. He asked where I went to church and I explained that I attended a congregation near campus but wasnt particularly happy there. Although the church was the same denomination that I had grown up in, the pastors messages were about as deep as a coat of varnish.

For whatever reason, I shared this with Bill. He told me of a church that he visited once that met in the college student union. The pastor was elderly and battling cancer. But he was sincere. There was no stained glass, pews or organs. Folks sat in folding chairs in a borrowed upper room.

Bill told me I should try that church.

His suggestion altered my life. I fell in love with the tiny congregation and adored the pastor and his wife. My cynicism dissipated. For the first time since leaving home, I felt like I had a place where I belonged.

The pastor joked that Bill made me a regular attender, even though he didnt come himself.

During the past 40 years, I have lived in cities all over the United States. But the first thing I would do when moving to a new community is join a church. Some advice given 40 years ago by a casual acquaintance altered the trajectory of my life.

When Bill and I spoke this past week, his recollection of me was dim at best. Im certain he doesnt remember that conversation. But his words mattered.

A number of years ago a co-worker took me aside and told me how something I had said changed her life.

The two of us were young reporters working the nightshift at a newspaper and as she tells it she joked about getting drunk after work and driving home.

According to her, I said I didnt respect that and asked: How would you feel if you killed someone because you were driving drunk?

Years later, she took me aside and told me how my words altered her life. She immediately quit drinking and driving.

When she told me this, I was flummoxed. While it sounded like something I might say, I have no memory of that long-ago discourse.

I have chosen a career of words. Words matter particularly when they are delivered with sincerity and kindness.

Another former co-worker, Gary Schneeberger, tells of how a past supervisors words changed his life.

It was my first ever professional job review, and I think it might have been one of his first, because he had just become an assistant city editor when he did my evaluation.  In the summary he said, If Gary continues to apply himself and learn his craft I can see him working his way up into management one day. That was the first time, I ever thought higher than the byline. I was like, Wow, you mean, being like an editor and a leader and helping other writers and reporters. Is that something that's open to me, too, someday?

Schneeberger has gone on to a distinguished career heading up public relations for Focus on the Family and other endeavors. He added the editor who gave him the encouragement has no recollection of doing so.

Id be remiss in not noting that the person Schneeberger said inspired him to greater things, was the worst boss Ive had in my 35 years in the workforce. He criticized me during a job evaluation for abstaining from alcohol and living too sheltered a life to be a good journalist.

The biblical book of Proverbs says: The soothing tongue is a tree of life, but a perverse tongue crushes the spirit.

In my 58 years, I, too, have said things I have regretted. To this I can only ask the listeners forgiveness. But I pray when I do speak, Im offering words of encouragement.

Why? Because words matter.
The first couple months in Chadron for the 12th president of Chadron State College, Dr. Ron Patterson, have been enjoyable. He and his son moved to the community Fathers Day weekend, and Patterson began his work at the college June 20.

[Nebraska State College System] Chancellor Paul Turman has been fantastic in his leadership and expectations for me in my role, but also Chadron State College. The campus community has been welcoming, and family friendly. They have befriended my family and my wife, and welcomed us with open arms fully into the community. We felt welcomed and loved during Fur Trade Days.

We have really enjoyed moving and relocating to Chadron, Nebraska, but more importantly weve really enjoyed meeting the wonderful people. Prior to coming to Chadron, Patterson was at the University of North Alabama in several leadership roles including chief enrollment officer, vice president for diversity, equity, and inclusion, and director of the presidential mentors academy.

Looking at areas to address at CSC, Patterson said primary for him is to increase enrollment at the college. There are two-revenue streams for the school, he explained. The first is state legislature and appropriations; the second is tuition and fees. Declined enrollment put a strain on the budget, he said, so administration has to look at the best ways to attract, enroll, retain and graduate students.

His second priority is simply listening. Hes launched a listening tour this month, meeting with high school and college administrative staff in Alliance, Scottsbluff, Gering, Ogallala and North Platte. He plans to continue the tour through the coming months, with focus on K-12, business and industry, community and residents, and alumni.

The purpose of the tour, Patterson said, is to develop his strategic vision for the college. Its important to listen to all constituents who have a stake in Chadron State College. The Bean Broker will host Patterson on this listening tour on Wednesday, Sept. 6, from 4-6 p.m.

Patterson gave a preview of the strategic plan, noting that is starts with enrollment and is founded in the student education experience, and will also go into brand awareness and identity. He plans to share more after the tour is complete.

The strategic plan will chart the next five years for the college, being a set of guiding principles, Patterson said.

The new president is also looking into building relationships and collaborations between the city and the college. Since his arrival, hes met with City Manager Tom Menke, alumni and the college foundation board to glean information on how partnership between Chadron and CSC can be strengthened.

Hes also planning to gather information from Chadron Chamber of Commerce Director Gabby Michna, and has already met with Northwest Nebraska Director of Tourism Kerri Rempp and Sara Bennett of Pine Ridge Job Corps.

Ive been very trying to meet and shake hands, and try to establish those partnerships in the community, and also learn where they see we can partner with the community.

As for the draw to Chadron, Patterson said it is the people and the location. I think the location is outstanding. I see the value in the High Plains in Western Nebraska. I see the value in this being the only regional comprehensive public college in Western Nebraska. That was very appealing to me.

As I learned more about the institution and its mission, vision and values, and after I met the people, I was sold on the opportunity of coming here and leading this great institution. We are a hidden gem that I no longer want hidden.
INTERIOR  Nestled in the Badlands of South Dakota in the tiny town of Interior, with a population just over 60 and located just south of the National Park surrounded by prairie and ranches for miles, the sounds of cheering spectators could be heard near and far as some of the best cowboys and cowgirls on the pro rodeo circuit took part in the Interior Frontier Days Rodeo.

Dubbed The Oldest Rodeo in South Dakota, the Interior Frontier Days Rodeo finally returned to the big stage on Saturday  its first as a part of the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association.

This is dang sure the smallest town  the second might be Golden Valley, North Dakota might be close  but this is dang sure one of the smallest towns. But probably one of the biggest rodeo towns, said Chancey Wilson, a stock contractor with Muddy Creek Rodeo. I mean the whole town pitches in. They got small parades and they got dances and everybody in the whole community from Kadoka to Wall to Kyle and everyone in between helps out to make the rodeo happen.

Months of planning and organizing by the Interior Roping Club, along with the Muddy Creek Pro Rodeo, came together to put on the event. Mundorf Cattle Company of St. Onge provided the timed event stock.

The event, which included a slack competition earlier in the day, featured the premier performance at 5 p.m. Saturday with a Ranch Rodeo performance Sunday.

Slack is an extension of the competition for an overflow of contestants, as rodeo performances are limited in the number of participants allowed. Ranch rodeos are more traditional rodeos, featuring teams from different ranches competing against each other in events based on the type of work they do every day. It's usually comprised of local ranchers and ranch hands.

This is the first time [it was a pro rodeo] since...I believe it was 1929. We kind of tracked that back and at that time it was called the Cowboys Turtles Association before even the PRCA and the Rodeo Cowboys Association, said Wilson. So it's been 90 some years since this was a professional rodeo."

It's one of the oldest rodeos in the state of South Dakota. We're all pretty excited," he said. "I think there are 10 National Finals qualifiers here in our first year back to the PRCA and we're glad we're glad to be back.

The Cowboys Turtles Association, named for the groups slowness to organize (but they eventually stuck their neck out according to the Pro Rodeo Hall of Fame), turned into the RCA in 1945 and then in 1974 became the PRCA.

For the past several years, the Interior Frontier Days Rodeo has been held over the July 4th weekend and sanctioned as a part of the South Dakota Rodeo Association  a statewide only charter of rodeos throughout the state.

When we decided to go as a pro rodeo, we had to get [the rodeo] off the Fourth, because theres already so many pro rodeos on the Fourth, and we knew we werent going to be able to get many contestants, so thats behind the decision to take it off the Fourth of July, said Rustin Bertram, president of the Interior Roping Club.

While many rodeos typically feature multiple nights of performances, the Interior Roping Club decided to go with just one performance for the first professional rodeo in over 90 years.

"Interior was always  for years and years  an afternoon rodeo, and we were trying to bring back some of the old traditions from when they first started," Wilson said.

With temperatures hovering around 80 with a light breeze, the weather couldn't have been much better for Wilson and Bertram.

All-in-all, they deemed the entire event a success. Much of that success goes to the organizers, sponsors and volunteers who made the event possible, according to Bertram.

It's a huge change for us to step up into this next level, and all the locals here, the neighbors and ranchers, they all contribute, Bertram said. Everyone from the small towns to the big towns, even Rapid City, they help out a lot. We couldnt do it without our sponsors too.

Wilson, who lives 15 miles outside of Interior, went to elementary school in Interior and graduated from Wall, and has always been involved in the Interior Rodeo.

So of course my family has been on part of this rodeo, Wilson said. For some years it was just a little jackpot rodeo, and some years it was similar to what it is today, and as long as I'm still alive, we're gonna have a rodeo in Interior, South Dakota.

Being a local and the stock contractor for the rodeo, Wilson was able to show off some of his best livestock  that includes National Finals Rodeo bucking horses  but also introduce brand new horses as rookie broncs.

The rodeo not only featured some of the best competitors in the PRCA, but also competitors from other countries.

We got national qualifiers here and that's just great. We got guys from Australia here. A couple of different countries here, Bertram said. This means a lot to us. Rodeo is a pretty small world, but it sure is nice when you can get these riders from other countries here.

Following Saturdays rodeo performance the night concluded with a dance to cap off the days fun.

I think it went good. You know, anytime 25 bronc riders show up to come get on in this legendary rodeo, I think everybody's happy, Wilson said. We got a good turnout tonight and a big fan crowd, and there's a dance and people stick around and dance the night away.

After Saturdays performance, the plan is for the Interior Frontier Days Rodeo to maintain being a part of the PRCA circuit.
The Deadwood Police Department is investigating after a bomb threat was called in for the Silverado Franklin Monday afternoon.

In a Facebook post, Deadwood Police said officers responded around 2:15 p.m. to the hotel and gaming complex on Main Street. The caller had apparently mentioned a specific time the bombs were set to go off.

DPD worked with local law enforcement partners to set up a perimeter and evacuate the area. Police conducted a detailed search with the assistance of a police K-9, but no suspicious activity or packages were located.

Deadwood Police are still investigating the incident. Anyone with information is asked to contact DPD at (605) 578-2623. Tips can be anonymous.

South Dakota Highway Patrol, the South Dakota Department of Transportation, Lawrence County Sheriff's Office, Lead-Deadwood Ambulance and Deadwood Volunteer Fire Department assisted.
"It is obvious to me that we have made an investment that is worthy of the veterans who every day did their best, and is worthy of the caregiv
The Stevensville School District is off to a great start with additional programming, a nearly full staff and optimism.

Second-year Superintendent Dave Thennis said the school has focused on three areas: transportation, a new pre-kindergarten early literacy program at the elementary school and an Alternative Learning Center at the high school.

Classes started on Aug. 24 for grades 1-12, Kindergarten began on Aug. 28, and class for students age 4 and 5 begins on Sept. 5.

We have a lot of new things going so anytime there are new things going there are hiccups and were working through those hiccups and trying to improve, adjust and get better, Thennis said. We have done a major overhaul of our transportation system. As we go through the process we are continuing to refine, hourly, whats going well, whats not going well and making adjustments.

He said it will be a really safe and reliable system that will come with a few growing pains.

Transportation covers bus routes, field trips and extracurricular activities.

As for having enough drivers, Thennis said the school could use more.

We have enough by the skin of our teeth, he said. Transportation is a big deal that requires a lot of people.

Overall, Thennis said the school has enough employees.

We have a hard time filling some positions but this year I think we did well, he said.

Career and Technical Education (CTE) educators are hard to find. Its a unique niche and to be an educator in those fields is sometimes maybe not what they want financially. We have our core classes covered and Im happy with that.

CTE programs include career skills training that helps students become ready for college or work. Stevensville High School has a beautiful new Agriculture and Technical facility.

FFA has been using those facilities, Thennis said. FFA is a very good program, kids are interested and they do a lot.

Stevensville added a new pre-kindergarten early literacy program to help young students build critical early reading and writing skills.

Primary Principal Jessica Shourd said the program is critical and worth the wait.

The district has been eager to start an early literacy program for several years and is very excited to observe the benefits of this new program, she said.

Jessica has worked very hard and done a lot of planning over the summer, Thennis said. She has put together a good program that we are excited to offer. We have 20 students in our pre-K program. We are excited to get those kids started early and give them a little jump start in literacy skills.

He said he is excited about the quality program for 4 and 5-year-olds.

Im looking forward to seeing how the program benefits those kids, Thennis said.

Stevensville has created a new alternative learning center at the high school.

That offers us some flexibility with kids who maybe are missing a couple of pieces in their high school experience or have other life circumstances that are preventing them from being a full-time student, Thennis said. Ayse Haxton and Eric Larson have created a nice program. We have created great programs at both ends of the spectrum. Im excited to get both of those going.

Flexibility is key.

Maybe the student went through a history class but missed a few components, maybe they were absent, Thennis said. This allows them to work through some standards and proficiencies to get the learning and credits that they need to be able to graduate. Not every life unfolds in the same manner, there are lots of different pathways.

Alternative Learning Center Director Ayse Haxton said students are already making progress.

They are working independently on different subjects, she said. Im just here to guide and answer questions. They are focused on getting their diplomas, credits and graduating on time, if not early.

Math courses are taught through the Montana Technical Digital Academys Ed Ready Program.

The other subjects are courses Haxton designed with teachers at Stevensville High School like history and science.

They are project-based, proficiency-based, Haxton said. They have certain things they have to learn, they get to decide how to research and learn it. Then they have to design projects to show me what they have learned.

Students at the ALC come four days a week, three hours a day. They can participate in SHS extracurricular activities and take classes at the high school.

As long as it doesnt conflict with their session here, I encourage them to take classes and be involved, Haxton said. For a lot of these kids it is important that they disengage with the hustle and bustle and the stress at the high school. This is where they need to be. They can come, do their schoolwork and not deal with drama.

Many of the students in the morning ALC have jobs so they work in the afternoons. The second session begins at noon. There is room for 12 students each session. The morning session is full and there are two spots open in the afternoon session.

Were filling up fast, then well start a waiting list, Haxton said. I have a couple of seniors who didnt quite graduate last year who are back to get those credits, get their diplomas and move on. Then well have more openings.

The SHS ALC is in the spacious building that was the weight room. It has Chromebooks, workstations, textbooks for research and reading, headsets, and a common area with a refrigerator, microwave and coffee bar.

Well have a kitchen and Ill be able to do culinary classes, Haxton said. Kids can bring food in, microwave it and work at their desk.

Haxton has over 20 years of teaching experience. She taught in a preschool and then earned her teaching degree.

I have taught high school English for over 10 years, she said. When I heard about this I was intrigued. I have six kids, five of whom I fostered and adopted so I am familiar with kids who struggle with different things. I want to help these kids succeed; I love my job.

Haxton is also the Key Club and National Honor Society advisor.

Its going to be a great year, Thennis said. I felt the energy in the opening staff meeting was very positive. Our open house was great, we had a lot of parents there. Then kids showed up and this is why weve been doing all that work. It is fun to get a good year started.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, August 29)  The House of Representatives will look into the Department of Educations (DepEd) use of its confidential and intelligence funds in 2022 to decide whether an allocation for this is still needed in the agencys 2024 budget, Pasig City Rep. Roman Romulo said.

Last year, in the budget hearing, they justified it by saying there were unwanted elements So now they've had one year, Romulo told CNN Philippines The Source on Tuesday.

He said its time Congress asked how the department spent the funds so that lawmakers will have a clearer picture how these were used. This will help them decide whether to retain or reallocate the funds, he said.

The DepEd is seeking 150 million for its confidential funds in 2024, the same amount granted by Congress to the department under the 2023 budget.

Amid opposition from some lawmakers, Vice President and DepEd Secretary Sara Duterte defended her departments proposal, saying education is intertwined with national security.

She did not disclose the breakdown of the budget but stressed there is a guideline on how the government should use the funds.
The suspect in a fatal hit-and-run crash during a police chase in Hopewell last month has been arrested.

Tequan D. Taylor, 34, of Petersburg was being held without bond at the Southside Regional Jail on Monday on a felony count of second-degree murder, according to Virginia State Police.

The crash was at 11:39 p.m. on July 28 when a 1998 Dodge Ram 1500 traveling east on Oaklawn Boulevard went through a red light and hit the passenger side of a 2001 Toyota Camry traveling south on Ashland Street, police said.

The Toyota ran off the road, hit a utility pole, collided with the Dodge a second time and overturned.

The Ram was being chased by Prince George County police, who had stopped the vehicle for speeding, authorities have said.

The investigation remains ongoing.
The new prosecutor handling the high-profile Irvo Otieno murder case is pushing for more evidence, saying that additional investigation was needed.

Specially elected Dinwiddie Commonwealth Attorney Jonathan Bourlier said Tuesday that his top priority was familiarizing himself with the cases evidence.

We had no less than 20 meetings with many individuals from many different roles within the case to fully assess the situation, Bourlier said. In these cases before us, we felt much additional investigation was needed to ensure we are fairly and accurately prosecuting this situation, which we are still undertaking.

Otieno, 28, died while shackled and handcuffed by seven Henrico County sheriffs deputies and three Central State Hospital employees, who restrained him on the ground at the Dinwiddie County psychiatric facility for 12 minutes.

A medical examiner ruled the March 6 death a homicide by asphyxiation, and a grand jury indicted all 10 defendants. The case garnered national attention as a video recording of the incident became public.

The family of Otieno said he had struggled with mental health problems and was mistreated while in custody. Lawyers for the defendants have said at court hearings that he was combative and they had been trying to restrain him.

The cases eight defendants appear to be headed for eight separate trials. The decision was welcomed by defense attorneys, who have successfully argued different degrees of fault in Otienos death. Already, charges against two defendants have been dropped.

Bourlier has issued subpoenas for more records from the Henrico Sheriffs Department. On Aug. 23, Bourlier said his office argued with Henrico Sheriffs counsel over the subpoenas, and that a ruling would be forthcoming soon from Dinwiddie Circuit Court Judge Joseph Teefey.

Bourlier said that the subpeona is under seal, and he couldnt discuss the details of what records he is seeking from the Henrico Sheriffs office.

The next appearance in the case is on Sept. 19. Bourlier expects trial dates to be set for the eight defendants by by Oct. 17.

As always, the focus of my office should be faithful to the pursuit of justice, and that is the paramount focus we undertake in this case, as well as all others, Bourlier said.

Bourlier, who has previously said he did not have prosecutorial experience, is learning on the job. His predecessor Ann Cabell Baskervill resigned from the post in June to attend graduate school in Paris.

Bourlier was one of two names on the ballot for the November commonwealths attorney election. He was appointed by judges for Dinwiddie County Circuit court, including Teefey. Virginia code states that circuit court judges can elect a replacement Commonwealths Attorney in the event of a vacancy.

It remains to be seen who will try the case. Bourlier is running against Amanda Mann, an attorney from Prince George County.

Caroline Ouko, Otienos mother, could not be immediately reached for comment on Bourliers handling of the case. Previously, she said that systemic racism swallowed her son. Ouko and her other son, Leon Ochieng, described their Otieno as an athlete, musician, and gentle giant.

He was selfless. He was gracious, he was kind, said Ouko, who described the promises Leon and Irvo made to her: that they would both succeed and one day take care of her.

All those good things that will never be because someone did not speak up, someone did not step up Ouko said.

Mark Krudys, a civil rights lawyer representing the family, said that Bourlier is earnest and hard working, but that the small office is outmatched by the eight experienced defense attorneys representing the cases many defendants.

Youngkin-driven cuts at ABC has liquor industry wondering why Budget cuts Gov. Glenn Youngkin sought at the Virginia Alcoholic Beverage Authority have raised concerns in the liquor industry that depends on it.

They need the resources and assistance of the federal government, both in assisting them in their efforts and/or to launch its own criminal investigation, Krudys said.

Krudys said he remains frustrated that the Department of Justice has not pursued civil rights charges of its own. Krudys and national civil rights lawyer Ben Crump issued a press release calling for DOJ intervention in June, a week after Baskervills resignation.

Department of Justice spokesperson Kari Foote has previously said that they were monitoring the case, but that they had not announced charges and had no new statements to share on the matter.

Its confounding to the family that DOJ continues to sit on the sidelines, Krudys said. Indeed, why have a Civil Rights Division if it seemingly ignores egregious civil rights breaches?
On Tuesday, Richmond crews removed the concrete barriers and 8-foot fence surrounding the land that once hosted the statue of Confederate Gen. Robert E. Lee.

With around 6,000 plants and 28 trees already placed inside the circle, the barrier removals cleared the way for the city to finalize its temporary landscaping plan.

The Lee statue had stood largely undisturbed after it was unveiled in 1890. But just months into the COVID-19 pandemic, the statue became covered in graffiti by protestors rallying against police brutality and racial inequalities.

Protestors worked on reclaiming the space around the monument, turning it into their own version of a community center.

Some began referring to Lee Circle as Marcus-David Peters Circle, a nod to the teacher and Virginia Commonwealth University alum who was shot and killed by Richmond police during a mental health crisis in 2018.

Concrete barriers were placed around the circle in June 2020 to prevent vehicles from driving in during that summers protests. The state installed the fence around the circle in January 2021, effectively ending public gatherings at the space.

Later in 2021, the state took down the Lee statue and base, the last of the four Confederate statues to be removed from Monument Avenue.

Following the removal, Virginia transferred ownership of the circle to the city of Richmond just before Gov. Glenn Youngkin succeeded Ralph Northam in the statehouse.

Some Richmonders wanted to convert the circle into a community space similar to what had been put together during the 2020 protests.

Last fall, however, the city approved a temporary landscaping plan that would serve as a placeholder until a permanent solution was put in place.

The $100,000 worth of plants and trees were installed this summer by YME Landscape, providing fresh visuals at the grounds that were barren for nearly two years.

It gives it a little more light, YME Landscape Owner Earl Gary said about the fence removal. Its going to be nice scenery and increase the citys visual acuity. I like it; I think it looks really good.

PHOTOS: Monument Avenue statue unveilings from the Valentine's Archives
Chesterfield County police on Tuesday identified the victim of a fatal crash that occurred Monday night in Chesterfield as Shane A. Birkhead, 25, of Chesterfield.

Police said Birkhead was driving a 2005 Honda Civic north on the 7200 block of Beach Road at around 9:09 p.m. Monday when the vehicle ran off the road to the right, overcorrected, crossed into the southbound lane and struck a 2018 Subaru Forester, which was traveling south. Birkhead was pronounced dead at the scene, police said.

The driver of the Forester was transported to an area hospital with injuries that were not considered life-threatening, police said.

The investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information is asked to call the Chesterfield police at 804-748-1251 or Crime Solvers as 804-748-0660 or through the P3 app.

Photos of the Downtown Expressway construction in the early to mid-1970s
Idalia, which strengthened in the Gulf of Mexico on Tuesday into a fast-moving hurricane, is expected to cross into mainland Florida Wednesday and track up the East Coast, but have a limited impact on Virginia once it reaches that far north.
David Cuttino counts on the Virginia Alcoholic Beverage Control Authority to help sell and market the whiskey made by Reservoir Distillery, the Richmond company that he co-founded in 2008, as the countrys economy turned upside down in the Great Recession.

Reservoir, based in Scotts Addition, is among nearly 90 Virginia companies that make distilled spirits that, since the end of Prohibition in 1934, can be sold in Virginia only through the state-owned liquor monopoly, which also is a reliable source of revenue for the states general fund budget.

So Cuttino, as chairman of the Virginia Spirits Board, was concerned this summer when Gov. Glenn Youngkins administration insisted on cutting more the $21 million from expenses at ABC  including more than $1 million for marketing and advertising that his industry considers essential to selling its products in a highly competitive liquor market. The cuts, finalized last week in the third budget lawmakers considered in two months, almost double the projected level of profit going back to the state.

I dont understand why theyre doing this when, in my view, ABC has been doing a pretty good job as a business, he said in an interview on Monday.

ABC made $220.6 million in retail profits

The answer cuts to the bottom line for former Del. Tim Hugo, R-Fairfax, whom Youngkin appointed as chairman of the ABC Authority Board of Directors early this year after 17 years in the House of Delegates and an unsuccessful 2021 run for the Republican nomination for lieutenant governor.

We just got them another $20 million (for) the budget, Hugo said in an interview on Friday.

ABC returned $220.6 million in retail profits to the state on almost $1.5 billion in gross sales in the fiscal year that ended on June 30  about $20 million more than required in the state budget lawmakers adopted 14 months ago. Counting taxes on sales, wine and beer, the authority generated $609.7 million in revenues for the state. The budget adopted on Aug. 22 would boost retail profits to $244.3 million in this fiscal year, which began on July 1, about $21 million more than originally forecast.

Soon after Youngkin named him as chairman of the board in early February, Hugo went to the governors new chief transformation officer, Eric Moeller, and asked him to look at the operations and expenses at ABC, established as a quasi-independent state authority in 2018 to give it more freedom to run as a business. The law also made ABC a less lucrative place for former legislators in both parties and other political players to roost by making the board positions part time.

I had a lot of questions I wanted them to clarify, Hugo said.

The main question was why ABC was increasing sales and gross revenues, but returning a smaller portion of net revenues to the state budget. Moeller, in a report presented to the authority board on July 20, concluded that operating costs had increased by $135 million in six years, resulting in a steady decline in the portion of revenues returned to the state as profit since 2019, the year before the COVID-19 pandemic began.

The answer  according to the authority and the industries it regulates  was that costs rose because of skyrocketing labor costs during the pandemic, including a pair of 5% raises for state employees in the two-year budget that ABC had to pay with its profits. The state also had committed to allow a portion of profits to be used to modernize antiquated information technology systems and replace the longtime ABC headquarters and distribution warehouse on Hermitage Road in Richmond. The new headquarters and warehouse opened two years ago in Hanover County, and Virginia Commonwealth University bought the old property last year for $15.7 million.

The cuts alarmed Cuttino and other representatives of regulated industries, who voiced their concerns at the July 20 meeting. During that meeting the board took an initial vote narrowly rejecting a revised budget with $21.3 million in cost cuts in response to Moellers findings. They were fearful that the proposed cuts would hurt sales at retail stores and potentially prevent the authority from filling long vacant jobs in ABC enforcement necessary to ensure that all competitors play by the rules. They also worried that the cuts would undermine progress that ABC has made since becoming an authority.

The budget the board adopted last week is essentially the same as the one it rejected a month earlier, after it was tweaked to shift $3 million in cuts away from staff incentives, bonuses and training, but at the expense of additional staffing cuts at ABCs 365 stores and elimination of more vacant full-time jobs.

It includes a commitment to fill 45 of the 60 jobs currently vacant in ABCs enforcement division, using higher license fees that the industry supported in 2020 in return for hiring more officers to police the business. Hugo said the money has been there to fill those jobs, some of them vacant for years. Its been funded, but they just havent hired them, he said.

Official: So many of the potential risks are real

Eric Terry is president of the Virginia Restaurant Lodging and Travel Association, whose members have to buy distilled spirits through the state system and depend on enforcement of state rules against unfair competition. His association was among 11 liquor industry trade groups that voiced their concern to Hugo in a letter on Aug. 21, the day before the board adopted a budget that Terry said allayed his concerns.

Theyve done a really good job of modernizing ABC, he said. We dont want those improvements to stop.

The governors intervention at ABC has gotten a mixed reception at the General Assembly, which has been busy with its own six-month budget stalemate that ended last week.

House Appropriations Chairman Barry Knight, R-Virginia Beach, acknowledged a lot of moving pieces at ABC, but said it is appropriate for the governors staff to look for ways to make state government more efficient.

It is an authority, but it adds to my bottom line with all the profits and state taxes, Knight said. Hopefully, at the end of the day, we can get more daggone profit out of it.

In 2012, the assembly dismissed an attempt by then-Gov. Bob McDonnell, a Republican, to privatize ABC, largely because his proposal would have lost money for the state budget.

Sen. Barbara Favola, D-Arlington, who chairs the Senate committee that oversees ABC, cautioned against making cuts for short-term profits that could hurt the authoritys long-term success.

I think theyre probably taking a narrow view for short-term gains, Favola said Monday.

Cuttino has the same concerns on behalf of his company and others represented by the Virginia Spirits Board. While the number of people they employ directly is small  16 at Reservoir  he said they are part of a much larger economic ecosystem that includes farms, lumber companies, and the millers and coopers that make their barrels.

Cutbacks at ABC  including staffing and marketing at ABC stores  will necessarily hurt the bottom line, he said.

The budget proposed in July acknowledged some of the potential consequences. Cuts in marketing and other media services could slow growth in sales and reduce public exposure to Virginia spirits and wines, it said.

But the biggest question for the industry remains why.

I really dont understand why any of this is necessary, Cuttino said. So many of the potential risks are real.

Close An employee works at new Virginia ABC headquarters and distribution Center in Hanover County, Va., on Monday, June 21, 2021. An employee works at new Virginia ABC headquarters and distribution Center in Hanover County, Va., on Monday, June 21, 2021. The new warehouse is 37% larger than the Hermitage Road warehouse in Richmond, which remains in use for the time being. Cases of products moved through the new state ABC authoritys liquor distribution center in Hanover County on Monday. Gov. Ralph Northam (center) shares a laugh with Virginia ABC CEO Travis Hill (center left), Public Safety and Homeland Security Secretary Brian Moran (center right) and others during the ribbon-cutting. Governor Ralph Northam speaks during a ribbon cutting ceremony for the grand opening of new Virginia ABC headquarters and distribution Center in Hanover County, Va., on Monday, June 21, 2021. Governor Ralph Northam speaks during a ribbon cutting ceremony for the grand opening of new Virginia ABC headquarters and distribution Center in Hanover County, Va., on Monday, June 21, 2021. Secretary of Public Safety and Homeland Security Brian Moran speaks during a ribbon cutting ceremony for the grand opening of new Virginia ABC headquarters and distribution Center in Hanover County, Va., on Monday, June 21, 2021. Virginia ABC CEO Travis Hill speaks during a ribbon cutting ceremony for the grand opening of new Virginia ABC headquarters and distribution Center in Hanover County, Va., on Monday, June 21, 2021. The Hanover County site is home to a 95,000-square-foot, three-story office building and a 315,000-square-foot warehouse. PHOTOS: Virginia ABC Headquarters and Distribution Center in Hanover County An employee works at new Virginia ABC headquarters and distribution Center in Hanover County, Va., on Monday, June 21, 2021. An employee works at new Virginia ABC headquarters and distribution Center in Hanover County, Va., on Monday, June 21, 2021. The new warehouse is 37% larger than the Hermitage Road warehouse in Richmond, which remains in use for the time being. Cases of products moved through the new state ABC authoritys liquor distribution center in Hanover County on Monday. Gov. Ralph Northam (center) shares a laugh with Virginia ABC CEO Travis Hill (center left), Public Safety and Homeland Security Secretary Brian Moran (center right) and others during the ribbon-cutting. Governor Ralph Northam speaks during a ribbon cutting ceremony for the grand opening of new Virginia ABC headquarters and distribution Center in Hanover County, Va., on Monday, June 21, 2021. Governor Ralph Northam speaks during a ribbon cutting ceremony for the grand opening of new Virginia ABC headquarters and distribution Center in Hanover County, Va., on Monday, June 21, 2021. Secretary of Public Safety and Homeland Security Brian Moran speaks during a ribbon cutting ceremony for the grand opening of new Virginia ABC headquarters and distribution Center in Hanover County, Va., on Monday, June 21, 2021. Virginia ABC CEO Travis Hill speaks during a ribbon cutting ceremony for the grand opening of new Virginia ABC headquarters and distribution Center in Hanover County, Va., on Monday, June 21, 2021. The Hanover County site is home to a 95,000-square-foot, three-story office building and a 315,000-square-foot warehouse.
The General Assembly will meet in special session next week to complete its work on a pending budget agreement, with little time to spare before moving into its new legislative home next to Capitol Square.

Gov. Glenn Youngkin announced Tuesday that he is calling the legislature into session next Wednesday, Sept. 6, at 10 a.m. to act on revisions to the two-year budget that have been delayed six months by a political impasse over the governor's quest for $1 billion in tax cuts.

He would get $1 billion in tax reductions under the pending deal, but almost all of it in one-time rebates to taxpayers that the Senate insisted on instead of the permanent cuts to corporate and individual income tax rates he had proposed.

Youngkin had said that he "can live with" the compromise over tax relief, bridging a political divide that had caused budget negotiations to break down on Feb. 24, the night before the assembly was to adjourn, and again on June 27, days before the end the fiscal year on June 30. It marked the second time in 50 years that Virginia had entered a new fiscal year without a revised budget, but the state is still operating on the two-year budget adopted 15 months ago.

I am calling Virginias lawmakers back to Richmond to reach a resolution on the state budget. Virginians deserve it," the governor said in a statement. "To make Virginia more affordable for families and local businesses, we must deliver on our shared goals for more jobs, safer and healthier communities, greater workforce and educational opportunities and much needed tax relief for Virginians.

"Together, we can get the job done.

The assembly has little time to complete its work on the budget deal, with details on spending and policy still to be announced. Legislative staff will begin moving into the new General Assembly Building at East Broad and North 9th Streets on Sept. 11 for the building's opening to the public a month later on Oct. 11.

The new building  14 stories above ground and one below  will replace a complex on the same spot that the assembly vacated in 2017 and the state demolished, leaving only the 1912 facade of the old Life Insurance Company of Virginia headquarters facing Capitol Square. The move back into the building has been delayed twice, preventing the General Assembly from returning for its legislative session earlier this year and again this summer.

"We are excited to finally get the project over the finish line," said Joe Damico, director of the Department of General Services, which has overseen the design and construction of the new building for the assembly.

The new building was part of a $300 million package of improvements around Capitol Square that also included renovation of Old City Hall and construction of a parking garage on East Broad Street that will be connected by underground tunnel to the legislature's new quarters. The assembly approved the capital project in 2016 after a political showdown with then-Gov. Terry McAuliffe and then included $25 million in the budget in 2020 to build a tunnel from the new building to the Capitol.

Last September, the state announced that completion of the new building would be delayed by the inability to get critical equipment in time because of global supply chains snarled during the COVID-19 pandemic, preventing the assembly from convening its session there in January. In June, the state said it delayed the move again because of an equipment failure that prevented one of the building's stairwells from meeting building code requirements.

"After experiencing many years of conservation and construction, as well as overcoming many obstacles, I'm delighted that the new General Assembly Building is completed and opening soon," House Speaker Todd Gilbert, R-Shenandoah, said in a statement on Tuesday.

Senate Rules Chair Mamie Locke, D-Hampton, praised the construction of a new building that preserves the historic facade on the same site of the legislature's old offices, which occupied three buildings from different eras.

"This blending of old and new is indicative of the legislative body itself, tracing its roots to 1619 but taking a contemporary approach to lawmaking with an eye always on Virginia's future," Locke said.

PHOTOS: General Assembly Building construction
Idalia, which strengthened into a fast-moving hurricane in the Gulf of Mexico on Tuesday, is expected to cross into mainland Florida Wednesday and track up the East Coast, but have a limited impact on Virginia once it reaches that far north.

Hurricane Idalia will make its closest approach to Richmond during Thursday as the center will cross eastward across the Carolinas during that time, said Sean Sublette, chief meteorologist for the Richmond Times-Dispatch. Some showers might drift into Richmond ... but no significant rain is forecast on Thursday locally.

A projected path for the storm system released by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration shows the hurricane moving through the Florida panhandle and Georgia on Wednesday and the Carolinas on Thursday, then drifting off shore.

Authorities on Tuesday warned Florida residents to evacuate due to the threat of high winds and flooding caused by the storm, which has been super-charged by warm waters.

One word  leave. Its not something to discuss, said Sue Colson, a commissioner for Cedar Key, an island city off the northwest coast of Florida.

More than a dozen state troopers went door to door there warning residents that storm surge could rise as high as 15 feet.

Tolls were waived on highways out of the danger area, shelters were opened and hotels prepared to take in evacuees. More than 30,000 utility workers were gathering to make repairs as quickly as possible in the hurricanes wake.

You do not have to leave the state. You dont have to drive hundreds of miles, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis said Tuesday morning at the states emergency operations center. You have to get to higher ground in a safe structure. You can ride the storm out there, then go back to your home.

Earlier in the week, Idalia drenched Cuba with heavy rain, prompting the evacuation of about 10,000.

As of 11 a.m. Tuesday, the storm as about 275 miles south-southwest of Tampa, the National Hurricane Center said. It is expected to enter the state as a Category 3 system with sustained winds of up to 120 mph.

The National Weather Service in Tallahassee called Idalia an unprecedented event since no major hurricanes on record have ever passed through the bay abutting the Big Bend region.

Schools and airports shut down Tuesday as Idalia approached, as did Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, the sister park of Busch Gardens in Williamsburg. Evacuation notices were issued in 22 counties.

Officials with the Federal Aviation Administration said a team at the David J. Hurley Air Traffic Control System Command Center in Warrenton is monitoring the situation and coordinating communication and planning efforts with airports. They did not indicate whether delays or cancellations due to Hurricane Idalia are expected in Virginia.

So far, the effect has been minimal, said Troy Bell, a spokesperson for Richmond International Airport. There was one flight cancellation at RIC Tuesday  an inbound flight from Tampa, Bell said. It was canceled because the airport in Tampa has closed, Bell said.

The weather service issued a Hazardous Weather Outlook for a wide section of eastern Virginia, with a threat of localized flooding.

A state of emergency also was issued in North Carolina. Experts anticipate tropical storm-force winds in the Outer Banks by Wednesday evening.

Sublette said Richmond could get wind gusts of 15 to 25 mph, but no damage or power outages are expected.

8/29 5am ET: #Idalia is now a hurricane. It will rapidly intensify today and make landfall as an extremely dangerous major hurricane.



 Preparations and evacuations need to be rushed to completion before sunset today! Conditions rapidly deteriorate tonight. #ALwx #FLwx #GAwx pic.twitter.com/Bulw4hOhkx  NWS Tallahassee (@NWSTallahassee) August 29, 2023

The arrival of Idalias remains will come almost exactly 20 years after another storm with an I name  Isabel  caused extensive damage in Richmond, as well as the Outer Banks and Hampton Roads area.

Meanwhile, Hurricane Franklin, which crossed through the Caribbean earlier this week, is expected to move further off the East Coast on Wednesday and Thursday.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration recently said the 2023 hurricane season would be far busier than initially forecast, partly because of extremely warm ocean temperatures. The season runs through Nov. 30, with August and September typically the peak.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.
The Wagner Group's presence extends from the ancient battlegrounds of Syria to the deserts of sub-Saharan Africa, projecting the Kremlin's global influence with mercenaries accused of using brutal force and profiting from seized mineral riches.

That was under Yevgeny Prigozhin, who in what may have been his final recruitment video, appeared in military fatigues and held an assault rifle from an unidentified dry and dusty plain as he boasted that Wagner was "making Russia even greater on all continents and Africa even more free."

A private jet carrying Prigozhin and his top lieutenants crashed northwest of Moscow on Wednesday, two months after he led an armed rebellion that challenged the authority of Russian President Vladimir Putin. There is wide speculation that the mercenary leader was targeted for assassination because of his uprising, though the Kremlin denied involvement.

Genetic testing on the 10 bodies recovered at the crash site "conform to the manifest " for the flight, Russian Investigative Committee spokeswoman Svetlana Petrenko said in a statement.

Russia's civil aviation authority had said Prigozhin and some of his top lieutenants were on the list of seven passengers and three crew members.

The crash raised questions about the future of Prigozhin's private army, which fought alongside Russian troops in Ukraine before his brief uprising against military leaders in Moscow.

Putin expressed condolences after the jet fell from the sky. The Russian leader also ordered Wagner fighters to sign an oath of allegiance to the Russian state, according to a decree published on the Kremlin's website late Friday.

The order followed the Kremlin's denial of suggestions from Western officials and news media that the Wagner leader may have been killed on Putin's orders.

In African countries where Wagner provided security against extremist organizations like al-Qaida and the Islamic State group, officials and commentators predicted Russia would likely maintain a presence, placing the mercenaries under new leadership.

Others, however, say Prigozhin built deep, personal connections that Moscow could find challenging to replace quickly.

Africa is vitally important to Russia. Expanding ties and undercutting Western influence in Africa is a top priority as the Kremlin seeks new allies amid its war in Ukraine, where Wagner forces also helped win a key battle. Africa's 54 nations are the largest voting bloc at the U.N., and Moscow actively worked to rally their support for its invasion.

This summer, Wagner helped secure a national referendum in the Central African Republic that cemented presidential power; it is a key partner for Mali's army in battling armed rebels; and it contacted the military junta in Niger that wants its services following a coup.

The Republican Front in the Central African Republic, which is allied with the country's ruling party, on Thursday reiterated its support for Russia and Wagner, saying they were "determined to fight alongside the African people as they struggle for self-determination."

Wagner forces served as personal bodyguards for President Faustin Archange Touadera, protecting the capital, Bangui, from rebel threats and helping Touadera win the July 30 constitutional referendum that could extend his power indefinitely.

Central African activist and blogger Christian Aime Ndotah said the country's cooperation with Russia would be unaffected by new leadership at Wagner, which has been "well-established" in the country for years.

But some in the Central African Republic denounce the mercenaries, and the U.N. peacekeeping mission there criticized them in 2021 for human rights abuses.

Linda Thomas-Greenfield, the U.S. ambassador to the U.N., said Friday that Wagner's forces "are destabilizing, and we've encouraged countries in Africa to condemn their presence as well as their actions."

High-ranking Wagner operatives built relationships in Mali and the Central African Republic and understand the terrain, said Lou Osborn of All Eyes on Wagner, a project focusing on the group.

Prigozhin reached a deal with Putin after the rebellion that saw Wagner mercenaries move to Belarus in exchange for amnesty and spoke repeatedly since then about expanding his activities in Africa. He was seen courting African officials at a recent summit in St. Petersburg.

Following the June mutiny, Putin said the Wagner mercenaries could sign contracts with the ministry and keep serving under one of the group's top commanders, Andrei Troshev. It wasn't clear how many accepted, but media reports put the number at a few thousand.

Former Putin speechwriter Abbas Gallyamov said Prigozhin may have been allowed to continue his activities because Russian authorities had to find people who would take over his work.

"Time was needed to create the new channels, new mechanisms of control over those projects," he said. "And it's not a fact that they have been successful in that. It's possible that they have failed and the Kremlin may lose some of those projects."

On Friday, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov refused to comment on Wagner's future.

For Prigozhin, who founded Wagner in 2014, its missions weren't simply about advancing Russia's global clout. His contractors in Syria, Libya, Sudan and elsewhere tapped the mineral and energy wealth of those countries to enrich himself.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, August 29)  Rodaliza Baltazar, the mother of slain teenager Jemboy Baltazar, on Tuesday denied police's claims that her family did not want an autopsy performed on her son's body.

Police Capt. Sonny Boy Tepace, chief of the Northern Police District Forensic Unit, said they have a copy of a sworn statement from Jemboy's sister, stating that their family no longer wants a post mortem examination.

Senator Raffy Tulfo, however, said authorities should have reached out to the victim's parents regarding the matter.

"Sino dapat ang unang kinonsulta ninyo? Di ba dapat ang protocol is the mother or the father? Tapos next in line yung mga kapatid," he said before the Senate Committee on Public Order and Dangerous Drugs.

[Translation: Who should you consult first? The protocol says it should be the mother or father, right? Then the next in line should be the siblings.]

The Baltazar matriarch arrived from Qatar on Aug. 11, a week after her 17-year-old son was fatally shot by policemen due to a case of mistaken identity.

For her part, Rodaliza said that her husband was in the country when the incident happened.

"Nandun po yung asawa ko... Buhay pa yung asawa ko' she said. "Dapat mayroon din siyang karapatan na tanungin kung ano ang gagawin sa anak ko."

[Translation: My husband was there... He is still alive. He should have the right to be asked on what should be done to our son.]

Forensic pathologist Racquel Fortun did an autopsy on Jemboy's cadaver and found that the teenager had been shot in the head and drowned.

Witness

Rodaliza also confirmed that Sonny Boy, Jemboys companion when the police operation happened, told them about a cop who wanted him to make it appear that her son was using illegal drugs.

"Si Sonny Boy lang po nagsabi sa amin na, na sinabi daw ng pulis na 'yun, na para daw maano yung ano ng mga pulis, na hindi masira, sabihin na si Jemboy ay may baril po daw at may droga," she said.

[Translation: It was Sonny Boy who told us that the police wanted him to say that Jemboy had a gun and drugs with him. So that the credibility of the police will not be damaged.]

Moreover, Rodaliza said that she fears for her family's safety after what happened to her son.

"'Di ba po marami sila? Ano po laban namin na isang pamilya lang po namin? Hindi po namin alam. Natutulog lang po kami, baka mamaya babarilin po yung bahay namin," she told the senators.

[Translation: Aren't there a lot of them? What chance does our family have against them? We don't know. Maybe theyll shoot us while we're sleeping.]

Senator Ronald Dela Rosa assured the Baltazars that he would make the Philippine National Police responsible for whatever should happen to them during the investigation.

"I will hold them responsible and accountable kapag may mangyari sa pamilya ninyo," he told them.. "Pangako ko 'yan sa inyo."

[Translation: I will hold them responsible and accountable for whatever happens to your family. I promise that to you.]
(Image: Malay Mail/Devan Manuel)

A survey by digital travel booking platform Klook has shown that millennial and Gen Z travellers in the Asia Pacific region are quite willing to splurge on their holidays. Specifically, the Travel Pulse survey noted that 81% of Malaysian travellers said that they are willing to spend an average of RM9,000 on their holidays  more than double the average monthly income across Asia of approximately RM4,800.

The survey also highlighted that experiences have become the new travel currency; about 81% of Malaysian millennial and Gen Z individuals in the survey said that memorable experiences are now a priority in their travels. In comparison, 90% of the overall survey participants said that they would invest in memorable experiences during their trips, including visits to theme parks, outdoor adventures, cave exploration, massages and hot springs, as well as island tours.

Aside from that, it was also revealed that Malaysian travellers favour travelling to Japan, Thailand, and Indonesia as their top destinations, with over 59% of them planning their trips about two to six months ahead of time. It was further found that 64% of Malaysians polled preferred to travel locally, and 87% enjoyed short-haul travels too (described as flights that take up to three hours in duration).

(Image: The Star/Lim Beng Tatt)

Aside from these details about Malaysian travellers, the Klook Travel Pulse survey also shared other discoveries found about Asia Pacific millennial and Gen Z travellers in general. For instance, one in five Gen Z individuals in Asia  and one in four millennials in Asia  is willing to spend nearly RM14,000 (about US$3,000) for holidays. Most of them are also now relying on social media platforms as their primary inspiration tool, shifting away from previous generations who typically depend on traditional sources like tours and search engines to plan their trips. Additionally, many check online reviews before making any bookings (nine out of ten travellers), such as for accommodations or an experience package.

Experience and activities become the first thing they [young travellers] look at. This remarkable shift is a testament to their increasing desire for authentic experiences, with their decisions fuelled by social media over traditional sources like search engines and travel guides, said the chief operating officer and co-founder of Klook, Eric Gnock Fah.

Gnock added that the rise of social media as a travel inspiration and planning tool  especially those that exist as mobile apps and come with short-form videos  is largely attributed to their interactive nature.

The Klook Travel Pulse survey was conducted in July 2023 with a total of 2,400 respondents across 12 markets, including Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, Hong Kong, and Japan.

(Sources: The Star, TTG Asia)

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Hurricane Idalia causes three cruise ships to change Riviera Maya itinerary

Cozumel, Q.R.  Three cruises set to dock on the island of Cozumel have changed itineraries. The ships changed course Sunday due to now-Hurricane Idalia.

Disney Fantasy, Grandeur of the Seas and Carnival Conquest were all scheduled to dock in the Mexican Caribbean this week. Disney Fantasy and Grandeur of the Seas were supposed to dock the island Monday, while Carnival Conquest was scheduled for Wednesday.

However, due to Hurricane Idalia, all three cruise ships changed itineraries. Disney Fantasy made the decision to cancel Cozumel altogether, while Grandeur of the Seas has rescheduled their arrival for August 31.

Carnival Conquest, which was scheduled for a full island day on August 30, also canceled due to Idalia.

Idalia passed the eastern coast of the Yucatan Peninsula over the past weekend as a tropical storm. The outer bands of the storm soaked the region as it made its way toward the Gulf of Mexico.

On Monday, Idalia finally passed the Cancun-Cozumel regions of the state and entered the Gulf. By Tuesday morning, Idalia had gained the hurricane strength predicted by the NOAA.

Hurricane Idalia is forecast to reach the west coast of Florida Wednesday as a major hurricane.
PDC real estate association pushing for vacation rental regulation

Playa del Carmen, Q.R.  President of the Mexican Association of Real Estate Professionals (AMPI) of Playa del Carmen is pushing to have vacation rental properties regulated. Playa del Carmen AMPI President, Jaime Gonzalez, says regulation is required to level the playing field.

Vacation rental is a very controversial issue, especially with the payment of taxes and competition with the hotel industry. But it is a reality. These are things that you cannot stop and are here to stay so regulating it must be addressed, he said.

Gonzalez is also requesting that vacation rental promoters be registered real estate agents so that they abide by the real estate law that exists in Quintana Roo.

The real estate agent who is out there without a license is illegal, so we have to promote this a lot. An enrolled agent is a trained agent.

The person who is promoting the vacation rental or properties in general must be a professional, and for that in Quintana Roo, there is a real estate law so we have to promote that as well as the registration of real estate agents, he explained.

He reported that in early September, AMPI is hosting the eighth Real Estate Forum in Riviera Maya where over 700 attendees and 46 exhibitors are expected.
Neil Aneja is a hustler and entrepreneur.

The 32-year-old Roanokers first hustle, in 2013, came shortly after he earned a college degree in biology. He was renting a $600 per month downtown Roanoke apartment back then. After a friend told Aneja about Airbnb, he began renting out nights in his leased apartment.

He discovered that two weekend rentals a month would cover his rent and earn him a profit. Any night he booked an Airbnb client into the apartment, Aneja would bunk across town with his mom, Shama Karkar.

Soon Aneja was leasing more apartments by the month  and re-renting them by the night on Airbnb. He parlayed that enterprise into owning a two-unit duplex in southeast Roanoke, then a 25-unit apartment building in southwest Roanoke. The latter is exclusively used for short-term rentals. Now that business has four full-time employees.

Thats not the only enterprise. Aneja bought a Tesla Model 3 and a Hummer and offered them as daily rentals on Truro.com, an online peer-to-peer car rental business that works like Airbnb. He said he quit that enterprise after Truro changed its terms and began keeping a larger share of the revenue.

This year Aneja started another company, TangTeardrop.com. It markets lightweight, two-wheeled teardrop-style camping trailers one can tow behind a car.

The base price of a Tang Teardrop is $15,000, but if you want it air conditioned and set up with solar power, itll run at least $16,350  and more if you desire a shower, sink, refrigerator and gas stove.

Probably Anejas most successful hustle has been marketing low-cost gimcracks and other items on Amazon.com. He began doing that in 2019. One of his best-selling wares is a small shelf that mounts to a shower wall with suction cups  and helps women shave their legs.

Aneja has a system to identify items people are searching to buy online. Then he finds a supplier for those items (usually in the Far East), buys them in bulk and has them shipped directly to Amazon, which holds the merchandise and reships the merchandise to buyers. Aneja never touches the stuff, and he said his profit margin is about 35%.

On Amazon, hes sold screens for espresso coffee makers; and silicone sleeves for cans of sparkling seltzer. The latter make the cans resemble non-alcoholic Red Bull, which is legal to drink in a park or on a beach. (Anejas sleeve reads Dead Bull.)

Another item Aneja sells is a device that allows bicycle owners to hide an air-tag on their bikes  to assist with recovery if a bike is stolen.

In the summertime I can sell 100 of those a day, Aneja told me.

Some of the merchandise  such as the shower shelf, the can covers and the air-tag hiders  Aneja has patented, or hes applied for patents that are now pending. The more intellectual property you have, the more your [Amazon] account is worth, Aneja said.

Yet another item/invention is a prank glitter-bomb device. Those cost Aneja $1.70 each in bulk. He can sell them individually on Amazon for $20.

This year, he said, he was on track to sell $3 million in merchandise, which shouldve netted him $1 million profit before taxes.

But Anejas not selling anything on Amazon right now. His Amazon business is dead in the water. The online retailer summarily deactivated his account (and some others) in July. Amazon is currently holding onto 48,000 items of Anejas inventory, which he estimated would sell for $1.2 million. The company is also holding $21,000 that was in his merchant account.

Why did they shut him down?

Aneja said its because of another item he marketed through his Amazon account, a Tesla Steering Wheel Glass Breaker for Tesla Model 3 and Y.

It was a hefty instrument that mounted to a cars steering wheel, ostensibly so a driver could bust out a window in an emergency. Anejas account sold 2,000 of those on Amazon for $49.95 each.

Then on July 7, the Washington Post published an article with the headline, Tesla owners are using steering-wheel weights to drive hands-free.

The story noted: The devices, which aim to stop Tesla Autopilot from nagging drivers to put their hands on the wheel, have been criticized by regulators and safety experts. The article cited two accidents that have occurred with Teslas outfitted with steering-wheel weights.

The weights fool a Teslas computer brain into thinking a humans hands are on the wheel. But Aneja didnt market the item that way. Rather, he sold them as steering-wheel mountable glass-breakers. He said his marketing materials featured warnings, such as Do not use when a vehicle is moving.

At 3 a.m. on the same day the Post article appeared, Amazon removed the glass-breaker from its listings.

Aneja said he wasnt surprised, considering the unfavorable publicity. But 12 hours later, right around 3 p.m. the same day, Amazon sent Aneja another email. In the second email, they removed Aneja from Amazon.com.

Your Amazon seller account has been permanently deactivated in accordance with section 3 of the Amazon Services Business Solutions Agreement. Your listings have been removed. Funds will not be transferred to you but will stay in your account while we work with you to address this issue.

Not only was his account deactivated with no warning, the action seemed contrary to an email promise Amazon sent Aneja in November, when the company praised the health of the business he was doing through Amazon.

Congratulations! Amazon wrote him. Because youve maintained a high Account Health Rating youre now enrolled in Account Health Assurance. With Account Health Assurance, we will not deactivate your selling account provided you work with us to resolve any issues.

Deactivating his account with no warning is exactly what Amazon did eight months later.

Ironically, Aneja has no glass-breakers left. Hes sold out of those. But Amazon is holding onto 48,000 other items  like koozies, shower shelves and glitter bombs  for which Anejas already paid and that already were delivered to Amazon.

He cannot sue the online retailer because he agreed when signing up to be an Amazon merchant that all disputes must go instead to arbitration. That typically takes a year, Aneja said. Meanwhile, Amazon is charging him $15,000 to $20,000 per month to park his inventory.

Aneja swore he didnt market the glass breaker as anything intended to fool Telsa computers.

Its like selling a knife, he told me. Someone could use it for cooking, and they could also use it for a crime. You cant control what the end user does with the product.

I sent Amazon media relations an email Monday morning, asking why the online retailer had deactivated Anejas account. I didnt receive a reply before deadline Monday evening.

Aneja has spent $15,000 on lawyers since July 7 trying to get Amazon to reinstate his account.

Our clients product is a glass breaker and was never sold or promoted as anything but a glass breaker, Anejas lawyer, Ryan Gile of Las Vegas, Nevada, wrote Amazon Aug. 6. As such, the Product listing does not violate Amazons terms of service.

But neither that letter nor the glass-breakers 10 page material Safety Data Sheet that the lawyer also forwarded to Amazon has changed the companys mind so far.

Amazons last communication to Aneja was Aug. 22 from Jorge H, in the companys Seller Escalation Team. It was a response to a personal emailed plea Aneja sent to Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, requesting his account be reactivated.

After reviewing your account and the information you provided, we have determined that your selling account will remain deactivated, Jorge H. wrote. Funds will not be transferred to you but will stay in your account while we work with you to address this issue in accordance with our Funds withholding policy.

We reached this decision because you listed products that are not permitted for sale on Amazon.com and failed to submit evidence or documentation demonstrating that your account has not violated our Restricted Products policy. If you have questions about this policy, go to Restricted Products.

Aneja said hes been trying to work with Amazon, but hes getting no traction with the company whatsoever. He believes hes lost $175,000 in profits since his account was deactivated.

And now, Aneja added, items that will fool Teslas Autopilot computer have popped up again on Amazon.com.

Go figure.
CHRISTIANSBURG  The Uptown mall property is again for sale.

Uptown Christiansburg  formerly the New River Valley Mall  is one of a number of retail sites in town shown on the online property listings platform LoopNet.

The listing marks the latest turn for the more than three-decades old property, which at one time was one of the primary draws in the retail corridor built around North Franklin Street and Peppers Ferry Road.

The mall was renamed to Uptown Christiansburg about three years ago, a rebranding that occurred some months after it was bought by Houston-based real estate investment firm RockStep Capital.

The Christiansburg mall is one of a number of RockStep-owned properties branded with the Uptown name.

Andy Weiner, president and founder of RockStep, said the company decided to list the mall due to interest in the property.

Basically, we have had a series of unsolicited offers on the property, and we thought the best way to deal with all the offers is to put the property officially on the market and let our broker deal with the interested parties, Weiner wrote in an email Monday.

The mall has had somewhat of a mixed trajectory over the past decade or so, a period that has on a greater scale seen a continued decline in mall operations nationwide as online retail activities have surged.

The property is located in the town's fast-growing northwest section, an area that includes the revamped Christiansburg Marketplace and new multipurpose park that is set to open soon. The mall area is also the targeted site for a future passenger rail station.

While the Christiansburg mall has lost a few key tenants over the years, it has gained some in more recent times and they have included entities that reflected efforts to diversify the propertys uses amid a changing landscape.

The mall experienced an uptick in new tenants during the late 2010s. The new arrivals at the time included conventional occupants such as retailers Kirklands and Ulta Beauty, but also gym chain Planet Fitness and Wonder Universe: A Childrens Museum.

In 2017, the mall lost one of its anchor tenants, JCPenney, which occupied space that was redesigned for Ulta and Kirklands. About a decade ago, the mall lost Sears, which was replaced a few years later by department store chain Kohls.

Other tenants that left the property within the past decade included apparel retailers The Gap, PacSun and Aeropostale, each of which were once common fixtures in malls across the country.

The malls assessed value has also dropped over the past several years.

When an affiliate of global asset management firm Farallon Capital Management LLC bought the 54-acre property for $27 million in 2016, it was at the time valued at $57 million for tax purposes.

The mall has a current valuation of $17.4 million, according to Montgomery County property records. RockStep bought the mall during the fall of 2019 at a sale price of $21.6 million, county records show.

The malls past owner, the Farallon affiliate, also sold the adjacent Regal New River Valley movie theater property in 2018 for just under $13 million to a Phoenix-based company that news reports say was later acquired by Realty Income Corp. of San Diego.

RockStep didnt immediately return requests for comment on the malls listing.

National news reports earlier this year said the number of malls nationwide fell from roughly 2,500 during the 1980s to around 700 now and that less than 200 are expected to still be around over the following decade.
Virginia Techs College of Engineering is moved out of old Randolph Hall ahead of demolition to make way for a new, almost $300 million Mitchell Hall, administrators said Tuesday.

Moving an entire college out of the 67-year-old Randolph Hall, finished in 1959, was a feat in its own right, said university board of visitors member Tish Long during a meeting Tuesday in Roanoke.

Virginia Techs top ranked College of Engineering has grown 68% since the fall of 2006, Long said. As of last academic year, the number of bachelors, masters and doctorate degrees represent 39% of all degree production at Virginia Tech.

A new and expanded 285,500-square-foot Mitchell Hall will be state of the art and more than 100,000 square feet larger than Randolph Hall, according to a university webpage.

The project received $11 million of design funding from the state in 2020, and full project funding with a total budget of $292 million in 2022, Long said.

Its in the working drawing phase, Long said. Construction activities are anticipated to begin in late 2023 to early 2024, with substantial completion planned for the summer of 2027.

Mitchell Hall got its name after a record $35 million donation from Norris Mitchell, class of 1958, and his wife Wendy in 2021. It became the largest single alumnus donation in school history.

Im a firm believer in the value of a good engineering education, Mitchell said at the time. It has served me very well for many years.
Correction Aug. 30, 2023, 8:54 a.m.: Ed Baine was the first Black vice rector of the Virginia Tech Board of Visitors. An earlier version of this story contained incorrect information and has been updated.

Virginia Tech may be well positioned at the start of another semester, but it would be foolish to ignore larger trends in higher education, said university President Tim Sands.

We are fortified and resilient, but we will be impacted, Sands said on Tuesday. The overall environment for higher education has never, at least in recent history, faced so many seemingly existential threats.

During his quarterly report to the schools Board of Visitors, Sands listed those threats.

The publics loss of confidence in our institutions, the shrinking pool of college-ready students in the Northeast and Midwest, the destructive culture wars, the assaults on free speech and academic freedom, and the affordability crisis are all around us, Sands said.

The U.S. Supreme Court in June banned consideration of race and ethnicity in college admission processes, and Virginia Tech has complied with that ruling, Sands said. People evaluating college applications will not be able to see applicants self-reported race or ethnicity, he said.

Its a significant change, Sands said. But Virginia Tech found recruiting success in recent years by reaching out to school districts and creating pathways for students that way, along with lowering application barriers.

None of that will change as a result of the Supreme Court decision, Sands said.

Virginia Tech also eliminated legacy status as a formal factor in admissions, he said. Similarly, an early decision option is now removed, also a result of the universitys regular reviews of admissions and enrollment management, he said.

We have committed to increase student financial support by just over $50 million a year in current dollars. This will obviously be ramping up, Sands said. This will bring unmet financial need for Virginia resident students, about 5,500 of them, down to a level that could be addressed by working half-time at the prevailing minimum wage.

Minimum wage in Virginia is $12 per hour. Affordability and support for underrepresented, underserved, low- and middle-income students is a top priority for the university, Sands said previously.

We have an incoming class of over 7,000, very close to target, Sands said. Were coming in just where we wanted to land.

That class includes more than 1,000 transfer students, and 400 international students representing 71 countries, he said.

Philanthropic giving yielded $225 million in new gifts and commitments, and $200 million in philanthropic cash during the 2023 fiscal year, Sands said. Research expenditures are up 28% over the last two years.

That metric of research expenditures more than any other is a strong indicator of our future ranking among global research institutions, Sands said.

Opening on campus this fall: the Data and Decision Sciences building, a new residence hall for the Corps of Cadets, and the Corps Leadership and Military Science building, Sands said.

Several other projects will open in the next year or so, he said, including a Blacksburg multimodal transit facility, a residence hall and dining facility, and an undergraduate science lab building.

After growing by about 5,000 undergraduates between 2015 and 2019, we are finally catching up on the infrastructure to support those students, Sands said.

Slated to open next fall is the first academic building at the Virginia Tech Innovation Campus in Alexandria. E-commerce retailer Amazon is constructing its second corporate headquarters nearby.

You all know about our contributions in bringing Amazon HQ2 to Virginia, Sands said. At any given time, we are engaged in several similar efforts, probably not at that scale, but important to the future of Virginia nonetheless.

Also announced Tuesday, board of visitors vice rector for the 2023-024 academic year is David Calhoun, president and CEO of The Boeing Company. Calhoun is taking the role of vice rector in lieu of previous selection Sharon Brickhouse Martin, who was not re-appointed by the governor.
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Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, August 29)  President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has instructed the Bureau of Customs (BOC) to continue raids on warehouses to address issues of hoarding and illegal rice importation, the Customs chief said on Tuesday.

In a Palace briefing, Customs Commissioner Bienvenido Rubio said the presidents directive is for the BOC to validate all warehouses that are storing imported rice and issue letters of authority to inspect these warehouses.

We will be conducting more inspections of these warehouses, Rubio told reporters. The inspection and visitation will be coordinated with other agencies like the DA (Department of Agriculture) and DTI (Department of Trade and Industry).

The BOC on Aug. 25 said it temporarily sealed and guarded three warehouses located inside the Intercity Industrial Complex in Balagtas, Bulacan, which reportedly were storing smuggled rice worth 505 million.

Rubio said owners of these warehouses were given until Sept. 8 to show proof of payment of duties and taxes for rice importation.

Pag hindi nakapagbigay ng correct payment of duties and taxes, magkakaroon ng issuance of warant of seizure and detention na magbibigay ng authority para ikumpiska ang imported articles stored in the warehouses, he said,

[Translation: If they cannot present the correct payment of duties and taxes, we will issue a warrant of seizure and detention to provide the BOC the authority to confiscate the imported articles stored in the warehouses.]

The warehouses contain around 202,000 sacks of imported rice grains reportedly from Vietnam, Cambodia, and Thailand, the BOC said.

CNN Philippines is trying to seek comment from owners of these warehouses.

Rubio said he cannot make a conclusion if the goods stored in the warehouses were hoarded, stressing that the BOCs authority only extends to whether the sacks of imported rice are paid with the correct duties and taxes.

This comes after Marcos ordered the close monitoring of rice prices in markets and said he will go after hoarders and price manipulators who take advantage of the lean months before the harvest season, according to the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) on Aug. 16.
" " Approximately 10 grams of antiprotons would be enough fuel to send a manned spacecraft to Mars in one month. Today, it takes a little less than a year for an unmanned spacecraft to reach Mars. Adastra / Getty Images

"Engineering, stand by for warp drive." With that command, the "Star Trek" crew of the U.S.S. Enterprise prepared to hurl the spaceship through the cosmos at superluminal speeds.

Warp drive is one of those science-fiction technologies, like teleportation and time travel, that have some scientific basis. We just haven't achieved it yet. However, scientists are working on developing an interstellar spacecraft engine that is similar to the antimatter engine of the Enterprise.

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" " Antimatter spacecraft like this one could someday shorten a trip to Mars from 11 months to one month. Check out current spaceflight technology in these pictures of space shuttles. Photo courtesy NASA

No engine is likely to generate superluminal speeds; the laws of physics prevent us from doing that, but we will be able to go many times faster than our current propulsion methods allow. A matter-antimatter engine will take us far beyond our solar system and let us reach nearby stars in a fraction of the time it would take a spacecraft propelled by a liquid-hydrogen engine, like the one used in space shuttles.

It's like the difference between driving an Indy race car and a 1971 Ford Pinto: In the Pinto, you'll eventually get to the finish line, but it will take 10 times longer than in the Indy car.

Let's peer a few decades into the future of space travel to look at an antimatter spacecraft and find out what antimatter actually is and how we might use it for an advanced propulsion system.
FLORENCE, S.C.  Francis Marion University has been donated $25,000 in funding from Honda of South Carolina to support the expansion of cybersecurity initiatives at the university.

The funding will allow the university to begin establishing additional curricula in cybersecurity that will benefit both students as well as community members.

Funding from this gift will be used to provide specialized equipment and software to train and certify students in cybersecurity. Faculty training will also be available through this donation.

FMUs School of Business and Computer Science program will be home to this new initiative. Job growth in the cybersecurity industry is expected to increase 35% in the next ten years. With Hondas donation, FMU will have the opportunity to increase the number of qualified cyber security individuals in the Pee Dee region.

Time and time again, Honda has stepped forward with generous support for our programs, said FMU President Fred Carter. All they ask in return is the opportunity to interview and hire our graduates into fine careers. These types of corporate partnerships are an important part of the future of this university. They are also essential to the success of the entire region.
FLORENCE, S.C.  Hurricane Idalia will bring tropical storm force winds, heavy rain and flooding to the Pee Dee starting Wednesday evening and continuing through Thursday morning.

The storm made landfall along Floridas west coast on Wednesday morning as a category three hurricane, with sustained winds near 120 miles per hour, according to the National Weather Service.

The storm is weakening as it passes over land, and forecasters are now anticipating that Florence will receive eight to 10 inches of rain and winds between 20 and 40 miles per hour.

With that amount of rain there is a possibility of flash flooding, Megan Driggers, Florence County Emergency Preparedness Coordinator, said about the previously forecasted four to eight inches. We encourage residents to complete their hurricane preparations and to stay home if possible.

South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster declared a state of emergency Tuesday ahead of Hurricane Idalia, which puts state emergency plans in place. This allows state agencies to better collaborate, share resources and respond to requests for assistance from county emergency managers.

The biggest threat to the Pee Dee region will be the eight to 10 inches of flooding rain, especially in low-lying or poor drainage areas, the National Weather Service office in Wilmington, N.C., said in a briefing.

In its 5:20 a.m. local hurricane statement on Wednesday, the Wilmington office said that the storm will bring "life-threatening rainfall flooding" that may have "extensive impacts across southeast North Carolina and northeast South Carolina."

A flood watch is in effect for all of northeast South Carolina and southeast North Carolina.

Rivers and streams are expected to "rapidly overflow their banks in multiple places," the statement said.

Black Creek near Quinby is expected to rise about 13 feet to roughly 16 feet by Saturday, which would be considered a moderate flood, according to the National Weather Service.

The Pee Dee River is forecasted to rise by around 17 feet to roughly 23 feet by Saturday, which is just under the moderate flood category.

Lynches River at Effingham will rise by around 13 feet to roughly 15 feet by Saturday, which is a minor flood.

In a briefing at noon on Wednesday, the Wilmington office said a few tornadoes are expected to develop as the storm passes over the region, with the highest risk south of Kingstree.

A Tropical Storm warning is in effect for all of northeast South Carolina and southeast North Carolina.

The National Weather Service office indicated it has moderate confidence in its current forecasts.

The National Weather Service office in Tallahassee, Florida, said on social media that the hurricane will be unprecedented for many places in Floridas Big Bend. A hurricane has never moved through Apalachee Bay, the office said on X, which was previously called Twitter.

How to prepare for Hurricane Idalia

Florence County Sherriff's Office said in a Wednesday news release that the best way to protect against the storm is by staying inside and avoiding travel if possible.

If residents do need to go out, the Sherriff's Office said to avoid puddles of water that are too deep to see the bottom of and to watch out for fallen trees, utility poles and other debris in the roadway.

People in low-lying areas and other areas prone to flooding should make a plan for where to go if they are unable to stay in their home, the South Carolina Emergency Management Division said in the governors state of emergency announcement.

Staying with friends and family should be the first option, but motels and hotels are also an option, the agency said. In some areas, emergency shelters may be open as a last resort.

At time of reporting, no shelters were open. A list of open shelters can be found at: scemd.org/stay-informed/emergency-shelters/

Duke Energy said in a news release that people should create or update an emergency supply kit before a storm arrives. This kit should include everything a person or their family may need for at least two weeks, especially medicine, water, food and any other supplies that might be difficult to get after the storm.

The company also encourages people to keep a portable radio, TV or weather radio nearby to keep up-to-date with the current weather forecasts and get updates from state and local officials.

Mobile phones, computers and other electronics should be charged ahead of time in case the power goes out for an extended period of time.

After the storm, the Emergency Management Division said people should be aware of potential flash flooding and be cautious of downed trees and power lines.

If waters might rise, people should immediately move to higher ground.

Moving water is dangerous, and someone can fall in three to six inches of moving water. Instead, they should move through still water and check the firmness of the ground with a stick as they walk.

Drivers should not go into flooded areas. If waters start to rise around their car, drivers and passengers should abandon the car and move to higher ground as quickly as possible, as the car could be swept away.

If they fall nearby, people should avoid touching or trying to remove fallen limbs from downed or sagging power lines. Downed lines should be reported to the utility provider, not by calling 9-1-1.

For more storm advice and tips, visit hurricane.sc or duke-energy.com/StormTips.

How agencies are preparing

Florence County is activating its Emergency Operations Center where Emergency Management Division staff will be throughout the night to monitor the conditions and respond as needed, according to Driggers.

The city of Florence Public Works Department is inspecting and readying all vehicles, heavy equipment, chainsaws and the like, according to Director Adam Swindler.

The city of Florence Utilities Department is clearing stormwater inlets of debris, checking that pipes and ditches are clear in known problem areas and staging equipment to respond to the storm, according to Director Jerry Dudley.

As long as it is safe for our employees, we will be out during the storm monitoring conditions, he said.

With the forecasted eight to 10 inches of rain, Dudley said roads around Florence are likely to flood despite the city's efforts.

"I would ask that people stay off the roads. That greatly helps us," he said. "That helps our crews, it helps prevent further property damage from wakes that may be caused by people driving through these flooded waters, and it also can save lives because we don't want people driving through flood waters."

Duke Energy has positioned more than 3,600 responders throughout the Carolinas to support outage restoration in the hardest-hit areas, it said in a news release.
New signing: Timothy Castagne (Getty Images)

Fulham today completed their 15million move to sign full-back Timothy Castagne from Leicester.

The 27-year-old has agreed a four-year contract at Craven Cottage with the option of a further year.

Castagne could be the first of a flurry of late arrivals at Fulham, who are considering moves for another full-back, a midfielder, a winger and a striker before the window shuts on Friday.

Castagne said: I feel very good. Its been a long transfer window, but finally Im here, and Im happy to be here. Its a big relief. Ive talked to the Manager and I just cant wait to start training and playing.

Tony Khan added: I'm excited to welcome Timothy Castagne to Fulham!

He's a versatile and very talented defender with great experience in the Premier League and international competition for Belgium. I'm pleased that Timothy has committed to a four year contract with us, and we believe that he'll be an excellent addition to Marco [Silva, manager]'s squad!
Singapore presidential candidates (from left) Ng Kok Song, Tharman Shanmugaratnam and Tan Kin Lian participate in a televised forum by CNA. (PHOTO: YouTube screenshot)

SINGAPORE  The three candidates taking part in the Singapore presidential election participated in a televised forum on Monday (28 August) amid their campaigning period.

Organised by CNA, the forum posed questions to the trio of Ng Kok Song, Tharman Shanmugaratnam and Tan Kin Lian, as they voiced their opinions on how they intend to play the President role should they be elected.

Here are their answers to some of the forum's key questions, ahead of the Polling Day on Friday:

Beyond what the Singapore government tells you, what factors would you consider before using second key to past reserves?

Tharman Shanmugaratnam: The second key is useful only where you cannot see the end of a crisis and you can't see the bottom to the crisis. The money has to be spent wisely, and that means not just helping people to survive, but to build strength in a crisis so that we emerge even stronger. If you're using our reserves in a crisis, and we're going to spend monies on Singaporeans and firms, it's got to be distributed fairly. So, if you're saving jobs, you've got to make sure we have low-income and middle-income Singaporeans build up strengths for the recovery. Don't just favour the big firms, don't just favour those who already have it good. Be fair.

Tan Kin Lian: I've two key factors. The first is: Is this use of the reserve in the interest of the people? The second factor, Is this a proper use of the reserves? I think the president should have the ability to understand what is proper use, and what is wrong use of the reserves.

Presidential candidate Ng Kok Song waves as he arrives at the nomination centre for the 2023 Singapore presidential election. (PHOTO: AFP)

Ng Kok Song: The critical thing is to understand that our past reserves should benefit the present generation, as well as future generations. So how much to save and how much to spend is a very important decision. So I would like to know from the government, what's the total size of our reserves? How much are you asking to spend up to the reserves? What are the assumptions that the government is making regarding the crisis? Another question which I would ask is: have you exhausted the possibility of raising revenues from other areas before asking me the president for permission to draw on the past reserves? And also, quite importantly, what are the assumptions that the government is using in regards to the expected returns on our reserves for the future?

Story continues

How would you convince voters that you are not politicising the election, and will exercise your powers without fear or favour?

Tan: The most important consideration is: What are the problems facing the people, and do we understand the problems? I do not believe in politicking, because it's taking away time that should be going into understanding the problems and solving them. I think we should se all available resources and knowledge to see what's the best way to solve the problems that faces the country and the people.

Ng: I do not belong to the People's Action Party. I do not belong to any opposition party. So there's no better safeguard than to have candidates who do not have any political affiliations. If you have candidates who are supported or endorsed by any political party, there's a danger that the President cannot act without fear of failure, because the President might have an influence in serving the political agenda of the political parties concerned.

Tharman: This is a contest between individuals who have to be assessed on their character - whether they have the spine, whether they have a track record, whether they will be able to keep the trust of the people who are electing them. If we go with the label of whether you've been a member of a political party or not, I think that's extremely simplistic.

What role would you play as President to build a more inclusive and compassionate society?

Tharman: That's been my whole life purpose, from my days as a student activist to my 40-plus years of government. I intend to be an active president supporting ground-up initiatives. It's got to be about upliftment. Focus on the kids in the earliest stages of their lives. Focus on those who are going through mental stress, mental wellness issues at all ages of life. Build second chances, third chances for those who made a mistake and want to get back up and need the social trampoline. Help the elderly, particularly those living alone. So every ground-up initiative that can help everyone stay together is going to uplift our spirit as a society.

Presidential candidate Tharman Shanmugaratnam waves to the supporters as he arrives at the nomination centre for the 2023 Singapore presidential election. (PHOTO: Reuters/Caroline Chia)

Tan: I will continue the wonderful tradition of the President's Charity, because it involves large numbers of people contributing to worthy causes. I will certainly want to examine which of the charities we should continue. I would also like to promote looking after the elderly people, especially those above 80. It's not just looking after them, but also taking the burden off their children. That will be my focus, to (ensure) there are government efforts to look after the elderly population.

Ng: The role that I would play is to encourage Singaporeans to understand that our most fundamental identity is that we are all Singaporeans, and therefore we should be helping one another. An important issue today is that many people are very vulnerable. So I would like to see more efforts being given to supporting volunteers and caregivers who spend much time looking after the the less-fortunate members of our society. I would also like to see a more inclusive society, embracing everyone who lives in Singapore, for example migrant workers and domestic helpers.

Beyond your ceremonial and community roles, how do you intend to be a unifying figure for the nation?

Ng: I think the emphasis in the past has been to do much more caring for our own racial or religious communities. But it'd be wonderful if we can move into the next step of encouraging members of one's communities to care for members of other communities. The second thing is to constantly remind Singaporeans that we are a united nation. We must develop this empathy, this compassion towards people, other communities. Our deepest identity is that we are Singaporeans.

Tharman: Singapore is an unusual place - multiracial, multicultural, multi-religious, but peaceful. We have to go beyond celebrating our diversity and respecting differences, towards deepening that multiculturalism. I believe we can deepen the Singapore identity by participating in one another's cultures - not just respecting differences and tolerating them, but become more Singaporean together. Secondly, our democracy is going to become more diverse in its views, but I have found that there are very few differences which cannot be bridged. Even if you can't agree on everything, respect the differences of perspective and find common ground. I intend, as a president, to advocate that very strongly.

Presidential candidate Tan Kin Lian waves to his supporters at the nomination centre for the 2023 Singapore presidential election. (PHOTO: Then Chih Wey/Xinhua via Getty Images)

Tan: I think the most important factor is that people should feel financially secure. Therefore, sorting out the economy situation is very important. The key problem now is that people find that the cost of living is too high, housing is too expensive, job is too insecure. If we can solve this problem, then people will have more time to think beyond themselves into the community and society at large. Let's make life easier for people, so they can be more dignified, and then they'll be more inclined to look after other people.

What major challenges will Singapore face, and how will you - within the powers of the President - help Singaporeans to cope?

Tharman: The world is becoming a very divisive place, a place where the big powers are not seeing eye to eye and there'll be efforts made by big powers to get us to be on one side or another one. We've got to avoid that. We've got to create space for Singapore internationally, with both today's friends as well as those who could be tomorrow's friends. Secondly, we've got to deepen the unity among Singaporeans, and I intend to be very active in promoting that. But certainly, never lose sight of the fact that the biggest challenge facing the world and every country in the world is climate change. We've got to start preparing to adapt, to respond to climate change. It may require some new finances. It may require the use of reserves for long-term investments, and the President has to be on top of understanding that challenge.

Tan: The major challenges are the global geopolitical tensions, the trade frictions which affect us badly, and also climate change. But beyond that, we have also our own internal problems. We are too costly a place to live, and too costly to do business. We must find ways to bring down our business costs so that we can be competitive. I would like to discuss with the government how we can work towards making Singapore a more competitive place, so that we can have more job opportunities for our people.

Ng: Singapore faces two challenges, one domestic and one international. I think our society, particularly our younger generation, is getting more cynical about government. This is quite worrying for me. so one very important thing is for the government to restore trust. We have to correct whatever has gone wrong, in terms of our standards of trust and integrity. Internationally, there's geopolitical conflict, but as long as we stay united as a nation, we will be able to deal with the risk of the international environment. Staying united is more important than ever, and the President has got to play that unifying role.

Do you have a story tip? Email: sgnews.tips@yahooinc.com.

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SIOUX CITY  The number of drug-exposed babies born at Sioux City hospitals over the last decade has been a growing concern for health officials.

"It's just continually getting worse," said Michelle Lewis, director of health promotions and population health for Siouxland District Health Department.

The health department and several community partners recently teamed up to create educational materials that highlight the harmful effects of using certain substances while pregnant, including methamphetamine, marijuana, nicotine, alcohol and prescription opioids. The brochures are being distributed to doctor's offices.

And, in late July, the health department began sharing short videos on its social media accounts from Dr. Ira Chasnoff, a Chicago pediatrician and expert on the effects of both legal and illegal drug use during pregnancy.

"We decided to really kind of focus on this and see what we can do to hopefully start decreasing the number of drug-exposed babies," Lewis said.

The number of drug-exposed babies born in Sioux City hospitals increased 105% between 2014 and 2015 alone. Eighty-six infant drug exposures were recorded in 2015, up from 42 the year before. In 2012, just 10 were tallied.

Infant drug exposure totals have remained relatively steady since the dramatic increase in 2015, dipping only into the 60s in 2018 (65) and 2022 (62), according to data provided by Siouxland CARES. Siouxland CARES is a coalition focused on improving the quality of life in Siouxland by eliminating the abuse of alcohol and other drugs.

"I think that there's a lot of socioeconomic struggles, particularly in our community, that puts a lot of women at risk," said Dr. Kortany McCauley, who specializes in neonatology and practices at UnityPoint Health -- St. Luke's. St. Luke's became Sioux City's lone labor delivery hospital after MercyOne Siouxland Medical Center discontinued obstetrics services in September 2020.

Since there are limitations on how long drug testing can detect certain substances, Brenda Iliff, vice president of clinical services for Rosecrance Jackson Centers, contends the actual number of newborns exposed to alcohol, marijuana, methamphetamine and other drugs is actually much higher than what is being reported.

For example, no babies born at Sioux City hospitals have tested positive for alcohol since 2009, when there was just one, according to the data.

Iliff said it's common for patients entering treatment at Rosecrance Jackson to be using "alcohol, marijuana and something."

"Alcohol, it's generally three days max, unless you're doing hair. Marijuana, the average is 30 days because of the fat in the system," she said of how long drugs can be detected in the body.

When do moms, babies undergo testing?

McCauley said St. Luke's has a policy in place that determines when mothers and babies are screened for drugs.

Mothers who have a history with the Department of Human Services are tested, as well as their babies, according to McCauley. She said any mom who has a placental abruption is automatically screened, as the complication has been linked to cocaine use.

"If there's things with the pregnancy that are kind or red flags, like let's say mom has had poor prenatal care or late presentation to care. We don't have her records on file. That's kind of concerning. If there's anything in mom's history that happens, those babies get screened," she said.

McCauley said urine, meconium, or earliest stool, as well as a segment of an umbilical cord, can be tested for drugs.

"Every baby has a part of their umbilical cord saved in case we need to retrospectively come back in and check the baby," she explained. "Babies can present with signs of withdrawal a little bit later, so we might not see signs of withdrawal until day three through five."

Withdrawal symptoms depend on the drug the baby was exposed to. McCauley said poor feeding and decreased wakefulness have been observed in infants who have been exposed to selective serotonin-reuptake inhibitors, commonly used antidepressants, while jitteriness, poor feeding and high pitched crying are signs of opioid exposure.

"They're acting like they're hungry, but they're turning their head a lot and they'll get rub burns on their chin," she said. "Diarrhea, sweating -- those kinds of things are all concerning."

At St. Luke's, McCauley said they try to keep mom and baby together, if possible. Depending on the drug involved, close swaddling and using certain feeding techniques can help soothe the baby. Babies who were exposed to opioids and displaying withdrawal symptoms would receive care in the hospital's NICU, for example.

"We use morphine here as a first-line agent. That's pretty common across the U.S. You treat an opioid with an opioid," said McCauley, who did her fellowship training at Mayo Clinic and has worked at St. Luke's since 2020. "I had a baby that was very symptomatic from alcohol, which is a benzodiazepine. What can I treat that baby with? And, so, you kind of get into murky waters."

What drugs are most commonly involved?

Marijuana is most commonly detected in babies born at Sioux City hospitals, followed by amphetamines, including methamphetamine.

Marijuana accounted for 63% of positive tests in 2022, down slightly from a high of 67% in 2016. Thirty-five percent of positive tests detected meth/amphetamines in 2022, down from 43% in 2021 and 40% in 2020.

Lewis said she noticed the number of drug-exposed babies being born at Sioux City hospitals begin to tick up at a time when a growing number of states were legalizing marijuana. Colorado and Washington were the first states to do so in 2012. Currently, 23 states and Washington, D.C., have legalized the recreational use of marijuana.

"We're only assuming that, potentially, if it's legal, they don't think it's a harmful substance to use," Lewis said. "We don't have any real reason as to why the data increased."

Iliff said the stigma surrounding marijuana use has decreased, but its potency has "increased significantly."

"With women, especially, psychosis, extreme anxiety can be a side effect of marijuana, nowadays, versus years ago it wasn't," she said.

McCauley said newborns who have been exposed to marijuana don't display the "classical signs" of drug exposure.

"I think the concern about marijuana is, as time moves forward, there will be more research done and we'll know the ramifications of prenatal exposure," she said. "I think the biggest concern is that there will be neurodevelopmental outcomes -- how they're going to do in school on standardized testing, but also behavioral issues, like ADHD. There's just still a big question about what marijuana does to the infant."

A brochure from the health department's public education campaign states that THC, the main psychoactive compound in marijuana, affects fetal brain development, which can result in poor cognitive function and other long-term consequences. It notes that THC can lead to low birth weight and premature birth.

McCauley said methamphetamine negatively affects babies' blood vessels. She has seen infants who have been exposed to meth suffer severe brain bleeds or stroke-like symptoms.

"Sometimes, they have no symptoms and, sometimes, you have the jitteriness. I think, ultimately, the long-term outcomes, neurodevelopmental effects are the biggest concerns," she said.

The health department's brochure states that illicit drugs, including methamphetamine, pose health risks for both mom and baby. Stillbirth, miscarriage and premature birth are potential dangers of prenatal illicit drug exposure. Other risks include infections and anemia in mothers, as well as growth defects, low birth weight, sudden infant death syndrome, and cognitive and behavioral problems in babies.

Can pregnant women receive treatment?

Brianna Steffe, unit coordinator for residential women's services at Rosecrance Jackson Centers, said some women enter drug treatment before they give birth. Others test positive for drugs at the hospital and are referred to treatment services.

The Iowa Department of Human Services typically doesn't recommend inpatient treatment for women whose babies test positive for THC, according to Steffe. Instead, they are referred to outpatient services. However, Steffe said an inpatient treatment referral is "automatic" when methamphetamine is detected.

Steffe said it's typical for pregnant women entering treatment to have foregone prenatal care because "they don't want doctors to know" that they've used drugs.

"They want help, but they also don't want the Department of Health and Human Services in their lives. So, they're trying to get into treatment so they don't test positive," she said. "I would say they're here because they really want to stop. It's not just trying to get out of the system or dodge the system. They want to be sober."

Iliff said Rosecrance Jackson has kept pregnant women in inpatient treatment for a longer period of time "just so they stayed safe to have the baby." She said anti-craving medications could be provided to pregnant women in treatment under the guidance of a physician.

"They would be in treatment even longer than the others. But they're in a safe environment. It protects the baby from mom having a relapse," she said.

Steffe interjected, "We just had one. She gave birth last week. She wanted to be discharged and graduated from inpatient treatment before she had the baby, and the recommendation was halfway house. So, she stayed with us. She has her baby with her and, as far as I know, no involvement with the Department of Health and Human Services because the baby did not test positive."

Pregnant women in inpatient treatment at Rosecrance Jackson are "very isolated from the outside world," according to Steffe, who said they are transported to all of their OB appointments. She said staff members secure diapers, cribs, baby wipes, formula and any other supplies the women might need. The babies stay with their mothers at the treatment center after birth. Rosecrance Jackson also has a daycare on site.

Iliff said the cravings and obsessions that go along with addiction are so intense that it's "almost impossible for most people to get off the chemicals without some sort of help." She said addiction is so powerful that it "supersedes people's values."

"Addiction is addiction, and it doesn't care if you're pregnant, or if you're not pregnant, or if you're a mother of 10," she said. "Once you cross that line into addiction, you cross the line of choice."
SIOUX CITY  A Sioux City man who fired shots at a teenage girl during an altercation has been sentenced to 10 years in prison.

Aidan Wabashaw, 20, pleaded guilty Monday in Woodbury County District Court to one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm.

District Judge Zachary Hindman sentenced Wabashaw to five years prison on the charge, revoked Wabashaw's probation from a 2021 robbery conviction and instated the 10-year prison sentence in that case. The prison sentences will be served concurrently, or at the same time.

Charges of intimidation with a dangerous weapon, going armed with intent and aggravated assault were dismissed as part of a plea agreement.

Wabashaw intervened in an argument between the 17-year-old girl and her friend on June 12, 2022, in a house in the 1000 block of 15th Street and threatened her with gun. The girl left, and returned later to reconcile with her friend. Wabashaw then verbally threatened the girl.

During a third encounter later in the night, Wabashaw exited the home and pointed a gun at the girl and a friend who was with her. The girl told police that as she and her friend ran away, they heard two gunshots.

Hours later, a police officer stopped Wabashaw for failing to stop at a stop sign. After Wabashaw consented to a search of his vehicle, police found a 9mm handgun inside a bag, and Wabashaw admitted it was his.
SIOUX CITY  Sioux City school board President Dan Greenwell apologized Monday to fellow board member Monique Scarlett for earlier accusing her of taking part in a coordinated effort to report Chad Krastel to the FBI for domestic terrorism after he protested at board meetings in 2020.

I owe you an apology, Greenwell told Scarlett at the board's meeting Monday night. My past and recent experiences with prior administration, prior board members and our own prior scrums caused me to assume negative intent when it came to you. I associated you with them. Therefore, I was quick to judgment.

A Sioux City resident and school board candidate, meanwhile, recommended Greenwell to resign from the board over the incident as an act of responsibility and a "gesture of commitment to the well being of our school system."

This action would allow us to move forward towards a more harmonious and inclusive future in line with the principles you all hold dearly, Semehar Ghebrekidan said.

At the Aug. 14 board meeting, Chad Krastel claimed former superintendent Paul Gausman, former board member Perla Alarcon-Flory, Scarlett, Mayor Bob Scott and Sioux City Police Chief Rex Mueller, colluded to report him to the FBI in late 2020 after he objected to the school district's handling of an incident in which his 4-year-old daughter was sexually assaulted by another child at an afterschool program.

Scarlett, Alarcon-Flory, Mueller, and Scott all quickly denied the allegations. Gausman, now the superintendent for the Lincoln Public Schools, has not yet responded to the Journal's request for comment.

"I was shaken and appalled by the vehemence and absurdity of such outlandish allegations," Scarlett said the day after Krastel, a former school board candidate, leveled the accusations. "I have never contacted the FBI for any reason during my tenure on this board or for that matter in my entire life."

An internal Sioux City Police Department investigation, released Aug. 18, showed no one at SCPD ever reported Krastel to the FBI, but instead tried to assist him with criminal allegations he reported to police. SCPD also released an affidavit from then-FBI special agent Stephen Friend, who met with Krastel in November 2020. Friend, who no longer works for the bureau, confirmed neither the SCPD or school district violated any federal or state laws and the FBI did not have the jurisdiction to investigate the assault of Krastel's daughter at the Beyond the Bell program at Leeds Elementary School.

"I recently learned Mr. Krastel alleged SCPD Chief (Rex) Mueller and other Sioux City officials referred him to the FBI as a potential domestic terrorist. This did not occur," former FBI agent Stephen Friend said in the statement.

At Monday's meeting, Scarlett said she forgives Greenwell and hopes the board moves forward together for the betterment of the community.

Ghebrekidan and Native American activist Trisha Rivers both spoke out against Greenwell at Monday's board meeting, asking why the board president did not further investigate Krastel's claims before making his public comments.

Rivers, who is running for one of the four seats opening on the board in November, said she was disappointed, but not shocked, at what took place at the previous meeting.

A lot of allegations were made that turned out to be false, that were deliberately and intentionally aimed towards individuals in this community to attack their character. This is not acceptable nor honorable, she said.

Rivers encouraged Greenwell to extend his apology to the other elected officials named by Krastel.

Ghebrekidan said that Greenwell had created a divisive and hostile atmosphere within our school board meetings.

Your actions particularly towards women of color on this board and previously have failed to uphold these ideals and have regrettably created an environment that many find unwelcoming and hostile, Ghebrekidan said.

Alarcon-Flory, a Latina, and Scarlett, an African-American, made history in 2021 as the first two women of color to lead the Sioux City school board as president and vice president, respectively.

She said the board cannot underestimate the impact their actions have on the students in the district and its impact on staff and teachers. She also said the inaction of the other board members during the previous meeting was concerning.

Raucous meeting

During a portion of the board's Aug. 14 meeting, reserved for "oral reports" from board members, Greenwell said Krastel had approached him two months ago, asking if the board reported him to the FBI. At the time, Greenwell said, the board had not discussed it and, therefore, he did not know it had occurred.

He was targeted and categorized as a domestic terrorist by former board leadership and the former administration, Greenwell told the audience at that meeting. I too have been targeted with false allegations and smear campaigns, which all have been proven false and without merit.

Scarlett repeatedly interrupted him, stating he was out of order and asked Dan Moore, who is the school board's legal counsel, to intervene.

Tonight Mr. Krastel identified a horrible event that reinforces the retribution mantra that many folks have experienced and speak about, Greenwell said.

The board unanimously voted to pause the meeting and went into the closed session room, where yelling could be heard from outside. Board members Taylor Goodvin, Philip Hamman, Bernie Scolaro and Bob Michaelson did not enter the closed session room and, as such, the conversation did not violate open meeting laws.

The board reconvened after roughly seven minutes.

Greenwell clarified on Monday that he had a conversation with Scarlett after Krastel approached the board about the topic in June, where he recalls asking her if she had any knowledge of the report and she responded, as a matter of fact, I do.

Miss Scarlett then communicated her earlier concerns on security matters, and indicated that she took those concerns forward to the former administration, he said on Monday.

Scarlett said Monday she did not recall the conversation going like that.

Other board members made comments Monday night regarding the situation, many apologizing to the public and Scarlett for the situation and expressing hope that the board can focus on improving the district.

Michaelson recommended the board no longer include oral board member reports on the agenda and instead submit written reports to be included in the agenda.

I dont believe oral board reports have proven to be productive, he said.

Scolaro said no one condones false accusations. She said the board is made up of seven, not perfect individuals with different experiences and beliefs.

We are unified, wanting to do what is best for this district. Please let's not cast stones, please give us all up here some grace, she said.

She said the board cannot underestimate the impact their actions have on the students in the district and its impact on staff and teachers.
LE MARS, Iowa -- Four people were hospitalized early Monday after a pickup truck left the road and struck a house near Le Mars.

The Iowa State Patrol said the crash occurred at 6:57 a.m. near the intersection of Iowa Highway 3 and McKurth Drive, just east of Le Mars. A preliminary investigation determined Jesus Almaraz was eastbound in a Ram 3500 pickup truck. As he neared McKurth Drive, Almaraz suffered a medical emergency, causing him to lose control of the vehicle, which hit the north ditch, went airborne and struck a house on McKurth Drive.

Almaraz, 30, of Sioux City, was transported by ambulance to Floyd Valley Hospital in Le Mars.

Three passengers, all of Sioux City, also were injured.

Cesar Ramon Francisco, 28, and Rinaldy Hernandez, 30, both were transported by ambulance to the Orange City Area Health System hospital.

Isabel Savala, 59, was flown by helicopter to MercyOne Siouxland Medical Center in Sioux City.

All four were wearing seat belts, the State Patrol said.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, August 29)  Oil slicks have been observed in the waters off Calatagan, Batangas where a fishing vessel carrying 70,000 liters of marine diesel oil recently submerged, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) reported on Tuesday.

PCG District Southern Tagalog Commander Geronimo Tuvilla told CNN Philippines in a message that leaked oil has been spotted only offshore, or at the incident site, after ANITA DJ II sank seven nautical miles from the shoreline of Cape Santiago in Barangay Bagong Silang on Sunday.

No oil strandings have been seen yet in the shorelines of the area included in the possible trajectory of the oil slick, Tuvilla added.

"As of the moment, no clean up operations are being conducted in the shorelines since no oil strandings are observed," he wrote.

Tuvilla said only offshore response was conducted on Monday, where water was sprayed through water cannons to help get rid of the oil slicks.

Protect the Verde Island Passage (Protect VIP) advocates earlier raised alarm over the incident, saying the marine corridor  dubbed the "Amazon of the oceans  faces another threat of oil spill that may poison the vulnerable ecosystem of VIP, even as issues from the massive Oriental Mindoro oil spill remain unresolved.

In February, the oil tanker MT Princess Empress sank while carrying 900,000 liters of industrial oil, causing it to spill in the waters of Oriental Mindoro, Batangas, Palawan, and Antique.

The cargo carried by Anita DJ II is much smaller than that of MT Princess Empress and there seem to be seals that would prevent a spill, but the government must still act fast to ensure that these seals hold and do not cause another ecological disaster, Protect VIP Convenor Fr. Edwin Gariguez said in a statement on Monday.

Threat level lower

Tuvilla, however, allayed fears, saying that the threat level of the recent oil spill is lower compared with the one in Oriental Mindoro.

This is because the type and amount of oil in both vessels are different, he explained in a radio interview with 92.3 Radyo 5 TRUE FM, which the PCG posted on its Facebook Page.

Yung viscosity niya, mas malabnaw, 'ika nga nila, Tuvilla said, referring to the marine diesel oil carried by ANITA DJ II. Ibig sabihin, mas madali ito mag-dissipate. Mabulabog lang 'to ng alon at maarawan, mas madali siyang mawala doon sa karagatan.

[Translation: In terms of viscosity, it is more diluted. This means it dissipates more easily. It can dissipate due to waves or heat from the sun.]

Thirteen crew members of ANITA DJ II were rescued after their boat sank.

The PCG said the boat, owned by IRMA Fishing, departed Navotas Port and was bound for Palawan fishing grounds.

Earlier reports state the vessel sank due to strong rains, but the coast guard said investigation is ongoing to confirm the cause of the incident.
SIOUX CITY  A 33-year-old Sioux City man is facing felony charges following a high-speed chase, early Monday morning, in Morningside.

At around 12:41 a.m. Monday, officers observed a vehicle driven by Alan Lloyd Adams, a wanted felon. After officers attempted to stop Adams' vehicle, he eluded law enforcement at a high rate of speed throughout Morningside.

Investigators say Adams bailed from the vehicle, leaving a juvenile behind. He then ran into a residence.

Officers obtained a search warrant for the residence. Once inside, officers located Adams, along with two other wanted subjects: Juan Manuel Segovia, 32; and Charles Joseph Sully, 21.

Adams has been charged with felony eluding and child endangerment.
VATICAN CITY  The Vatican on Tuesday sought to tamp down an uproar that erupted after Pope Francis praised Russias imperialist past during a video conference with Russian Catholic youths, insisting that he never intended to encourage modern-day Russian aggression in Ukraine.

The Vatican spokesman, Matteo Bruni, said Francis merely wanted to praise the positive aspects of Russias spiritual and cultural history when he exalted Russias imperial rulers Peter and Catherine the Great, encouraged young people to remember that past and praised their way of being Russian.

Francis certainly didnt want to exalt imperialistic logic or government personalities, who were cited to indicate certain historic periods of reference, Bruni said in a statement.

The Vatican, and before it the Holy Sees embassy in Ukraine, spoke out after Ukraines Greek Catholic leader, His Beatitude Sviatoslav Shevchuk, bitterly complained about Francis remarks. The Vatican never published the comments, but they were shared on social media following Francis video conference with a Catholic youth encounter Friday in St. Petersburg.

Francis delivered a prepared text in which he encouraged the young Russians to be artisans of peace and to sow reconciliation in this winter of war. But in his off-the-cuff remarks, Francis told the young Russians to always remember their past.

Never forget your inheritance. You are the heirs of the great Russia. The great Russia of the saints, of the kings, of the great Russia of Peter the Great, of Catherine II, that great imperial Russia, cultivated, with so much culture and humanity, Francis said, according to the video clip. Never forget this inheritance. You are the heirs of the great Mother Russia, go forward. And thank you. Thank you for your way of being, for your way of being Russian.

Shevchuk, who has frequently spoken out to complain about Francis interventions about Russia, issued a blistering reply. He said the reference to Russias imperial leaders refer to the worst example of Russian imperialism and extreme nationalism.

We fear that those words are understood by some as an encouragement of precisely this nationalism and imperialism, which is the real cause of the war in Ukraine," he said. "War that every day brings death and destruction to our people.

The Vatican embassy in Kyiv said Francis' words had been misinterpreted and distanced itself from such interpretations, saying Francis never encouraged imperialistic ideas.

On the contrary, he is a convinced opponent and critic of any form of imperialism or colonialism, among all peoples and situations, the embassy said in a statement.

Francis has occasionally enraged both sides in the war in Ukraine with his off-the-cuff remarks. He has seemingly justified Russias invasion by saying NATO was barking at Russias gates with its eastward expansion. At the same time, Moscow lodged a formal diplomatic protest when he blamed most of the cruelty of the war on Chechens and other minorities, in an apparent effort to spare ethnic Russian troops from criticism.

On Tuesday, the spokesman for President Vladimir Putin, Dmitry Peskov, praised Francis' deep grasp of Russian history and said Russian teachers and schools were trying to teach young Russians of their heritage.

"And the fact that the pontiff, lets say, sounds in unison with these efforts, is very, very gratifying, Peskov said.

While Francis has frequently voiced solidarity with the martyred Ukrainian people, the Vatican has insisted it isnt taking sides in the war, in hopes of trying to remain a neutral player in search of peace.

Photos: Pope Francis arrives in Portugal for World Youth Day
Nebraska Gov. Jim Pillen announced Saturday that the Nebraska Army National Guard soldiers who were sent to the U.S.-Mexico border last month to aid authorities in efforts to counter immigration and drug trafficking are expected to return home Friday.

The 61 soldiers have been stationed there since Aug. 2 to provide additional observation and reporting near the border to assist Texas law enforcement involved in Operation Lone Star.

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott launched the operation in March 2021, deploying resources from the Texas Department of Public Safety and the Texas National Guard to the border in an effort to secure the area.

Nebraska is one of 14 states that has recently sent troops and resources to support the operation. The other states are Arkansas, Florida, Iowa, Idaho, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Virginia, West Virginia and Texas.

This month's deployment marked the fourth time a Nebraska governor has sent state troopers to the border and the second time this year.

Pillen in May deployed 10 members of the Nebraska State Patrol to the border to assist with drone surveillance operations.

This summer's deployments could cost the state as much as $2.6 million, according to State Budget Director Lee Will.

Pillen defended the expense after visiting the border with Nebraska National Guard Adj. Gen. Craig Strong last week. The two met with troops and got a security briefing from Abbott.

Based on what I saw today, the cost of the two recent deployments of National Guard troops and State Patrol troopers is worth the prevention of having illegal drugs and criminals pour through the southern border at ever-increasing numbers each day, Pillen said during his trip.

Photos: Jim Pillen marks 100 days in governor's office
Sgt. Brandi Sullivan squinted through her rain-splattered windshield late in the afternoon of May 18, 2019, homeward bound on Interstate 80 west of Gretna after a Saturday of training with her Nebraska Army National Guard unit.

The flight medic watched in disbelief as the driver of a car about 100 yards in front of her, a Chevrolet Cruze, lost control in the downpour and plowed through the grassy median into the westbound lanes.

Cars swerved and skidded to avoid oncoming vehicle, but one of them  a Chrysler Town & Country minivan heading west through the storm  slammed into it, tearing the Chevy in half.

Still in uniform, Sullivan raced across the highway to where a young couple searched frantically for their 4-month-old daughter who had been in an infant carrier in the back seat.

Now, the back seat and the baby were gone.

I could hear the mother just screaming like Ive never heard before. The father, too, Sullivan, now 31, recalled in an interview. She was screaming the babys name. Amila! Amila!

Sullivans efforts that day  bringing order to a chaotic crash scene, organizing several Good Samaritans who stopped to help, rendering CPR to the youngest victim and comforting the survivors  earned the Omahan the first Nebraska National Guard Heroism Medal.

Gov. Jim Pillen authorized the medal in June for Guard members who perform valorous acts while off-duty. He presented it to Sullivan on July 8 during a change-of-command ceremony in Lincoln that saw Brig. Gen. Craig Strong take over as the Nebraska National Guards adjutant general from Maj. Gen. Daryl Bohac, who retired.

Many acts of heroism are recognized by our military during ... times of war or military engagements where the recipients own life was at risk, Pillen said when he authorized the medal. This award also acknowledges extraordinary acts: those that occur in everyday life and are equally deserving of recognition.

Sullivans service is part of a family tradition. She is the youngest of seven children who grew up on a farm near Randolph in northeast Nebraska. Five of them served in the military, including four in the National Guard. So did her father, Gene Sullivan. (Her mother, Joanne, worked 26 years for the U.S. Postal Service). She enlisted shortly after graduating from Randolph High School in 2010.

One of my older brothers led the charge. Some of the rest of us saw the advantages of serving in the Guard, Sullivan said.

She earned money to pay for her studies at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, where she graduated in 2018 with a degree in nutrition, exercise and health sciences. In civilian life, she works as a project manager at Gallup, a workplace consulting firm with a large presence in Omaha.

For one weekend a month and two weeks each year, Sullivan serves as a flight medic with Company G of the 2nd Battalion, 104th Aviation Regiment. Earlier this month, she traveled with her unit to Michigan to join in field training that included responding to a simulated airplane crash.

Sullivans 13-year National Guard career has not yet taken her to a combat zone. But her skills were tested under fire four years ago along I-80.

She was driving about 2 miles west of the Gretna Highway 31 interchange when she witnessed the high-speed collision just in front of her.

There was no question she must stop.

It was a bad wreck, Sullivan said. I did not know what would be left of the car.

She grabbed her first-aid kit. Hearing the screams, she hoped to bring some calm to a scene described later by a first responder as horrific.

She did a quick assessment. Adriana Rodriguez, 19, of Scottsbluff, the young mother who had been driving the Chevy, was crying and pointing at the wreckage of the front of her car.

(She) didnt know where her baby was, Sullivan said. The back seat wasnt even there. I grabbed her and said, Well find your baby.

She ran across the highway to the north shoulder, where another bystander had found Amila, still strapped in her infant seat. It had been thrown about 50 feet from the wreck.

Sullivan quickly examined her. The little girl was badly bruised. Blood was coming from her ears.

I checked the babys pulse. It was thready, but it was there, she said. I picked her up and ran.

Sullivan set up in a grassy area near the parents and tended to little Amila, who was turning blue. Sullivan began chest compressions but continued to give directions to other bystanders to care for the five other injured crash victims.

She was so calm, it seemed like she had things under control, said Kristy Hiebner of Henderson, an eyewitness to the crash, in an email to the National Guard. When I saw her pumping on the chest of the baby for CPR, I had to turn away because the sight of the baby made me cry.

After about 10 minutes, paramedics arrived at the scene. Sullivan stayed to manage the handoff and help where she was needed.

We werent in a great location, she said.

Because of the storm, no rescue helicopter could fly to the accident scene. Ambulances took the five adult victims from the two cars to hospitals, and they recovered from their injuries.

But Baby Amila did not survive.

Sullivan drove home, drained.

I had a bit to process, she said. The next day, she returned to finish her weekend Guard drill. Already word had gotten around about her efforts on I-80.

From the day of the incident, her National Guard superiors wanted to recognize Sullivan with a medal. Her commander, Capt. Oliver Berglund, gathered statements from several witnesses about her actions at the scene.

In one such statement, Lt. Matt Core of the Sarpy County Sheriffs Office described her courageous and selfless in her attempt to save a life. In another, Mike Dvorak, a first responder to the accident, praised her rapid, focused and determined effort.

Hiebner described Sullivan as calm & controlled. I was beyond impressed & hope that, if someday I need help, someone just like her would be there to help me!

The problem was that her heroic conduct didnt quite fit the criteria for any of the available federal military awards, said Col. Dan Benes, the G1 personnel director for the Nebraska Army National Guard.

The Soldiers Medal is awarded for heroism off the battlefield only when the service member faces personal hazard or danger and risk of life. The Bronze Star with a V device for valor is reserved for bravery in combat. The Meritorious Service Medal rewards outstanding work over a whole military tour, not an act of courage on a single day.

We didnt have a (state) award that covered that, Benes said.

So Bohac asked the governor to create the Nebraska National Guard Heroism Medal. Presenting it to Sullivan was the last act of his 10-year term as the adjutant general.

Sullivans parents and other family members attended the award ceremony.

I know they were pretty proud, she said.

She said she was honored to be the first to receive the medal, but that was tempered by the loss of a young life on the highway, despite her efforts.

I was given the award, but it was arguably the worst day of peoples lives, Sullivan said.

The most positive memory from that stormy day was being part of a group of strangers who pulled together to help out in a terrible situation.

Knowing that I could give back in a small way, it was really rewarding, Sullivan said. I felt like I was in the right place at the right time.

Top Journal Star photos for August 2023
How much is sea level rising?

What the science says...

Select a level... Basic Intermediate A variety of different measurements find steadily rising sea levels over the past century.

At a glance

You'd think it would be obvious, wouldn't you? If ice (or snow) melts, you get water. Water flows downhill through gravity and collects wherever it can be retained. In areas that see regular winter snowfalls, the processes involved are familiar. Snow-capped mountains look photogenic but along comes the eventual thaw and the river levels rise sharply with all the meltwater.

Now apply the same basic principles to glaciers and ice-caps. It should not come as a surprise that exactly the same thing happens and where that meltwater collects is ultimately the oceans. Note here that we're talking about land-based ice, not sea-ice: sea-ice is already part of the ocean so does not affect sea levels as it forms and melts every year. But melt enough land-ice and you get very significant change indeed.

What do we mean by very significant? Well, let's look at the transition out of the last ice-age that dominated the last 20,000 years. It began with ice-caps over parts of Europe and North America and ended not so long ago with much of that ice gone but with sea levels having risen by more than 120 metres. If that's not significant, what is?

There's not enough ice left on Earth to raise sea levels by that whopping amount now, but there is enough to raise the oceans by more than 60 metres. Over what sort of time-frame? Well, we know that the current rate of sea level rise is some 3.7 mm a year, or nearly an inch and a half per decade. A lot of that is due to the expansion of the oceans - as things are warmed up they expand. But the rate is accelerating. How fast do we think it can get?

We do have the past to consider: during the glacial meltdown of the past 20,000 years, there was a period ominously named Meltwater Pulse 1A that began some 14,700 years ago. During this enhanced period of melting, sea levels rose by between 16 and 25 metres in about 400500 years. That's roughly 4060 mm per year or 16-23 inches a decade.

Could such drastic rates of sea level rise happen again? Probably not but nevertheless it shows what is possible as ice-sheets collapse in a warming world. But even if sea level rise stays at its current rate (it won't), that's getting on for a two-metre increase over the coming 300 years and a one-half to one-metre increase over the next 100 years. Now go anywhere affected by tides and think about all the communities of people that live and work along the shore. Pick the biggest spring tides, take a look at where they reach at high water, maybe watch the waves and surge when a storm occurs, then imagine an extra two metres of water on top of that.

And try to imagine being the decision-makers in the coming decades and centuries, who will have to work out what best to do. What would you think of the people all those years ago, who went around pretending this was not happening? Not favourably, for sure - because of such behaviour, that is how history will remember them.

Please use this form to provide feedback about this new "At a glance" section. Read a more technical version below or dig deeper via the tabs above!

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The climate myth set out in the coloured box above gives an insight into the minds of climate change deniers. Why? Because it's entirely made-up. It annoyed the Realclimate blog's Gavin Schmidt sufficiently for him to write an eloquent debunking in 2012 that is well worth reading because it demonstrates so clearly what we, the scientific community, are up against.

The claim that tide gauges on islands in the Pacific Ocean show no sea level rise is nonsense: the data presented in the Realclimate link above show a variably rising sea level trend at each station. But what about global sea level rise?

Sea level rises as ice on land melts and as warming ocean waters expand. As well as being an existential threat to coastal habitation and environments (think about many of the world's capital cities here), sea level rise corroborates other evidence of global warming

The black line in the graph below (fig. 1) clearly shows sea level is rising; its upward curve shows how sea level is rising faster as time goes on. The upward curve agrees with global temperature trends and with the accelerating melting of ice in Greenland and other places.

Because sea level behaviour is such an important signal for tracking climate change, the misinformers seized on the sea level record in an effort to cast doubt on this evidence. As fig. 1 clearly demonstrates, sea level bounces up and down slightly from year to year so it's possible to cherry-pick data and falsely suggest the overall trend is flat, falling or linear. You can try this yourself. Starting with two closely spaced data points on the graph below, lay a straight-edge between them and notice how for a short period of time you can create almost any slope you prefer, simply by being selective about what data points you use. Now choose data points farther apart. Notice that as your selected data points cover more time, the more your mini-graph reflects the big picture. The lesson? Always look at all the data rather than being fooled by selective presentations.

Fig. 1: sea level change, from IPCC AR6 WGI Chapter 2 section Climate Change 2021: The Physical Science Basis. Tide-gauge and, more latterly, altimeter-based estimates since 1850. The full image with all four panels and IPCC caption is available here.



Other denialist arguments about sea level concern the validity of observations, obtained via tide gauges and more recently satellite altimeter observations.

Tide gauges must take into account changes in the height of land itself caused by local geological processes, a favourite distraction for deniers to highlight. It will come as no surprise to learn that scientists measuring sea level with tide gauges are aware of - and compensate for - these factors. Confounding influences are accounted for in measurements and while they leave some noise in the record they cannot account for the observed long-term upward trend.

Various technical criticisms are mounted against satellite altimeter measurements by deniers. Indeed, deriving millimetre-level accuracy from orbit is a stunning technical feat so it's not hard to understand why some people find such an accomplishment unbelievable. It's astonishing that in another breath they are happy to jump aboard an airliner, parts of which are engineered to a similar tolerance!

In reality, researchers demonstrate this height measurement technique's accuracy to be within 1 mm/year. Most importantly there is no form of residual error that could falsely produce the upward trend in observations.

As can be seen in an inset of the graph in fig. 1, tide gauge and satellite altimeter measurements track each other with remarkable similarity. These two independent systems mutually support the observed trend in sea level. If an argument depends on skipping certain observations or emphasises uncertainty while ignoring an obvious trend, that's a clue you're being steered as opposed to informed. Don't be misled by only a carefully-selected portion of the available evidence being disclosed. Look at it all.

Current sea level rise is not exaggerated, in fact the opposite case is more plausible. For one, sea level rise is not the same everywhere. Many areas around the world already experience much faster rates of sea level rise than the average global rate shown in Fig 1. As well, observational data and changing conditions in such places as Greenland suggest if there's a real problem here it's underestimation of future sea level rise. Past IPCC synthesis reports offered rather conservative projections of sea level increase based on assumptions about future behaviour of ice sheets and glaciers, leading to estimates of sea level roughly following a linear upward trend mimicking that of recent decades. In point of fact, observed sea level rise is already above older IPCC projections - and accelerating - while at the same time it appears the mass balance of continental ice once envisioned by the IPCC was overly optimistic (Rahmstorf 2010; Otosaka et al. 2023).

Fast-forward to 2023 and the recent IPCC AR6 Synthesis Report is a bit less nuanced:

Limiting global surface temperature does not prevent continued changes in climate system components that have multi-decadal or longer timescales of response (high confidence). Sea level rise is unavoidable for centuries to millennia due to continuing deep ocean warming and ice sheet melt, and sea levels will remain elevated for thousands of years (high confidence). However, deep, rapid and sustained GHG emissions reductions would limit further sea level rise acceleration and projected long-term sea level rise commitment. Relative to 19952014, the likely global mean sea level rise under the SSP1-1.9 GHG emissions scenario is 0.150.23 m by 2050 and 0.280.55 m by 2100; while for the SSP5-8.5 GHG emissions scenario it is 0.200.29 m by 2050 and 0.631.01 m by 2100 (medium confidence).

The report goes on to state, however:

The probability of low-likelihood outcomes associated with potentially very large impacts increases with higher global warming levels (high confidence). Due to deep uncertainty linked to ice-sheet processes, global mean sea level rise above the likely range  approaching 2 m by 2100 and in excess of 15 m by 2300 under the very high GHG emissions scenario (SSP5-8.5) (low confidence)  cannot be excluded.

If they cannot exclude such risks - and they know what they are talking about - can you?

Last updated on 20 August 2023 by John Mason. View Archives
A recording of the Jan. 2, 2021, phone call during which Donald Trump asked Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger to help him find 11,780 votes became public almost immediatelyand was just as quickly compared to the smoking gun tapes that helped bring down the Nixon presidency. Fair enough! With all due respect to storing classified documents in a resort bathroom, telling a local official to invalidate the precise number of votes that would be required to change the outcome of the election is the thing Trump has done with the most pronounced I dont think you can do that feel.

The call is back in the news this week thanks to former White House chief of staff Mark Meadows, who testified Monday in a Georgia hearing related to the Fulton County district attorneys allegations that he was part of Trumps criminal conspiracy to overturn the 2020 election. Meadows is seeking to have his case moved from state court to federal court on the grounds that he is being prosecuted for activities that he undertook in his official capacity. Hes hoping that claim could secure him a more favorable jury pool (itd be drawn from the more conservative northern district of Georgia as a whole, rather than just Democratic-leaning Fulton County) or, if the judge in his case is sufficiently convinced that Meadows was legally fulfilling executive-branch duties, an outright dismissal of charges.

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According to Vox, the judge who listened to Meadows argument on Monday appeared skeptical. There are many problems with the case, but part of the gist is that White House employees are prohibited by law from attempting to influence the outcome of elections, and Meadows can be shown to have known that. As such, one of the things the former chief of staff argued in court on Monday was that he didnt realize his late 2020 activities were related to partisan campaign efforts to overturn the electioni.e., that he didnt understand the connection between President Donald Trumps interest in vote-counting procedures in Georgia (and Michigan) and candidate Donald Trumps ongoing efforts to reverse the results of voting in those states. From the Washington Post:

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On several occasions, Mark Meadows claimed to have no knowledge of the Trump campaigns efforts to contest the election results. On Donald Trumps phone call with Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger, on Jan. 2, 2021, which Meadows participated in, he said he did not know that three lawyers on the callCleta Mitchell, Kurt Hilbert and Alex Kaufmanhad participated in a campaign lawsuit against Raffensperger.

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(Meadows said he didnt remember how Mitchell, a prominent voter-fraud conspiracy theorist with whom hed previously been in contact, had ended up on the Georgia call.)

In addition, when questioned about an Oval Office meeting he attended with Trump and Michigan state lawmakers, Meadows said he didnt know that the campaign was contesting the results in that state.

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According to Meadows testimony, he believed at the time that he was advancing the executive branchs interest in accurate and fair elections and helping resolve Trumps concerns about voter fraud in order to eliminate a roadblock to the transfer of powerin other words, that he did not understand, in January 2021, that Donald Trump was involved in election litigation for selfish reasons. (A recent New York Times piece that documents Meadows history of vacantly telling whomever he was talking to exactly what they wanted to hear suggests, troublingly, that this might actually be true.)

Meadows claims are similar to the one that Trump has made about his own behavior in 2020that he believed the election was rigged against him as a matter of objective fact, meaning that his actions were reasonable attempts to secure the correct outcome. In his telling, the smoking gun was in fact a perfect phone call.

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This line of reasoning was reintroduced to circulation by right-wing law professor Jonathan Turley on Fox News after the Fulton County indictments were announced:

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You know, it makes perfect sense when youre challenging an election to say, You know, I only need around 11,000 votes. So if you do a statewide review, thats not a lot in a state like Georgia. Thats not criminal. Thats making a case for a recount.

Georgia, however, had already completed two recountsone by hand and one by machineby the time that Trump and Meadows spoke with Raffensperger. The fraud allegations the president was pursuing, moreover, were largely if not entirely sourced from random social media accounts and online message boards, and had already been dismissed by his own administrations Department of Justice.

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Related From Slate Americans Are Not Really That Divided About Whether Donald Trump Did Messed-Up Stuff in 2020 Read More

As a legal matter, Trumps contention he truly believed that voting results were rigged has problems. Among them are the concept of willful blindness and Trumps alleged statement that Vice President Mike Pence was being too honest in his response to the election, which would seem to imply an awareness that his own conduct was not honest.

Recall, too, that this trial may be taking place during the presidential campaign. Trump will be defending himself against a smoking gun by arguing, while his closest advisers testify that they could not possibly handle a gun without shooting themselves in the leg, that he believes guns are made out of cheese. And should he convince 12 jurors in Georgia and the District of Columbia that he is an insane person with low-IQ support staff, and secure a not-guilty verdict on the basis of such a triumph, he will then be asking the rest of his fellow citizens to reinstall him as president. It seems like a tall task, but if you think that its impossible, youre probably the kind of person who is still 100 percent sure that the moon is made of rocks.
In a video taken from the passenger seat of a car after Narendra Modis address to the joint session of Congress in June, Vivek Ramaswamy was full of praise for the Indian prime minister.

Modi talked unapologetically about Indian national identity, he said in the video, which was posted on X, the platform previously known as Twitter. He quoted the Vedas, ancient Indian scriptures. Yet here in the United States we have now gotten in the habit of apologizing for our own national history.  Thats what I think we need to learn here from Modis visit, is that we in this country are at our best when we too do not apologize for who we are.

These seem like standard talking points on their face. But there were two somewhat remarkable things about the comments. First, Ramaswamy referenced something so distinctly Indianthe Vedas (Hindu religious texts)when addressing a Republican base thats overwhelmingly white and Christian. Second, and more strangely, he seemed to praise Modis Hindu nationalismand call for an American equivalent.

An American equivalent can mean only one thing. Hindus represent about 1 percent of the U.S. population; Ramaswamy certainly isnt advocating for Hindu nationalism in America. Instead, he appears to advocate for a similarly shaped religious nationalism in the U.S. based on the countrys majority faith: Christianity.

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Indeed, Ramaswamy has all but explicitly supported Christian nationalism on the campaign trail. Our country was founded on Judeo-Christian values, theres no doubt about it, the candidate told NBC News in July. And in an interview with NewsNation this month, he declared, I believe I live by those values more so than many self-proclaimed Christian politicians.

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But unlike other prominent Indian American presidential candidatesnotably, his opponent Nikki Haley (raised Sikh) and former Louisiana Gov. Bobby Jindal (raised Hindu)Ramaswamy is not a Christian convert, and he has not played down his non-Christian background. Instead, he has touted his Hindu faith to the white evangelical base. So when he advocates for Christian values, he does so as an outsider.

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Its a two-step, and a new and unproven tactic, but Ramaswamy appears to believe that by presenting his faith as just as conservative as theirs, white evangelicals wont care about the specifics. His pitch is that it doesnt matter that hes not a white Christian nationalist himself: He can be just as strong an advocate for it as anyone else.

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To see someone explicitly make this claim, but embody himself as this other form of religious nationalismI think that is new, said Andrew Whitehead, a leading scholar of Christian nationalism at Indiana UniversityPurdue University Indianapolis. Its such a unique political move.

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How can a person like Ramaswamy promote an ideology that appears so hostile to his own demographic? To understand why a brown Hindu man would advocate for Christian nationalismor the belief that America was founded as, and should be governed as, a Christian nationrequires an explanation that goes beyond mere cynicism and the concepts popularity with the GOP base.

Primarily, its helpful to remember that as Tamil Brahmins, Ramaswamys family sits at the very top of Indias caste system. This isnt uncommon in the U.S. In recent decades, the country has limited immigration to skilled Indiansand only those with enough funds to transplant their livesmaking the Indian diaspora one of the wealthiest minorities in the U.S. And those of Ramaswamys particular privilege have experienced something akin to whiteness in their own context, said Dheepa Sundaram, a professor of Hindu studies at the University of Denver. Hindus suffer harms under white supremacy, she said. But I think hes trying to have it both ways: Stan white supremacy and be like, Hindus are part of your club. 

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But theres much more to Ramaswamys worldview than simple privilege. Theres also the popularity of nationalism as a concept among the Indian diaspora. Scholars have noted in recent years that a significant number of Indian Americans from both political parties have found themselves drawn to Modis Hindu nationalism. Despite Modis bloody recordthe U.S. once denied his diplomatic visa over his tolerance of anti-Muslim killings in the state of Gujaratand despite the violence being inflicted on minority religious populations in Modis India, many Indian Americans are excited by Modis insistence on elevating Indias cultural identity.

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One of the things we partly saw with Donald Trump was the popularity of Modi among the diaspora, even among people who dont agree with his policy decisions, Sundaram said. They like the idea that theres pride in Indian nationhood.

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This attraction perhaps makes particular sense in the U.S., where as a minority culture, Indian Americans are often met with a deep ignorance. Take Ann Coulters recent tweet after Wednesdays presidential debate, for example: Nikki and Vivek are involved in some Hindu business, it seems. Not our fight. This comment is not only racist, but simply wrong. Haley is Christian, of a Sikh background. Shes never been Hindu.

Ramaswamy, for his part, does have direct connections to Hindu nationalism. In 2022 he was a keynote speaker for an event organized by a group called HinduPACT, an initiative of a group called the Vishwa Hindu Parishad of America. VHPA is in turn an arm of the Vishwa Hindu Parishad, which the CIA classifies as a militant religious organization. The VHP has called for Muslims to be banned from office in India; the VHPA has said it shares the VHPs values. (I will tell you that the idea of thinking about Americas own roots and seeing it through a Hindu lens is not as far-fetched as you might think, Ramaswamy said at the event.)

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According to Sundaram, championing this national pride overlooks the reality of what Modis Hindu nationalism is going for: exclusion. When [Ramaswamy] says, We need to embrace our nationalist identity, hes also subtly agreeing with Modis policy of ignoring violence against religious minorities, Sundaram said. Hes couching it as a positive: embracing national identity. But it doesnt just mean Christian nationalism. Hes also saying theres a group of people in this country that dont belong. In India, thats Muslims, Sikhs, Christians, and tribal groups. Here, its primarily Muslims and atheists.

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You might notice the overlap. Sometimes the Hindu right allies strategically with Christian evangelicals, particularly when it comes to Muslims, said Rohit Chopra, who researches global media and cultural identity at Santa Clara University. Theres an idea of Muslims as the shared enemy.

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Ramaswamy has not said anything about Muslims. What he has done, though, is try to slot Hinduism in with the privileged religions of the U.S.

You can see this intention in how he talks about Judeo-Christian values. We share the same values, the same Judeo-Christian values in power, he told a crowd at a town hall in New Hampshire, according to NBC News.

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According to Chopra, Ramaswamys use of Judeo-Christian instead of simply Christian shows his optimism. Despite Christian nationalisms exclusion of Jews from its goals, Ramaswamy is trying to appeal to a less extreme version of the ideology thats just expansive enough to tolerate Judaism. He seems to believe that if Christian nationalists can accept Jews into their project, they could embrace Hindus too. The term Judeo-Christian itself is a relatively late element to enter American political discourse, Chopra said. Its also because you have conservative people who are Jewish. According to a 2021 Pew study, about a quarter of American Jews lean or identify as Republican. If you look at the rhetorical move on the right to Judeo-Christian, in some ways, Vivek is trying to perform the same move again.

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Vivek is trying to make a case that starting in 20, 23, we want to think of America as Hindu-Judeo-Christian, he added. How many people is he going to persuade? I dont know.

Ramaswamy is making this case through two tactics. The first is by downplaying the specifics of Hinduismits deities and rituals and mysticism. For example, Ramaswamys list of 10 truths begins with God is real. He has called Jesus Christ a son of God. (Many Hindus embrace the idea of many deities; some see Jesus as a possible one of them, among others.) And although Hinduism is often thought of as having polytheistic elements, Ramaswamy has sought to portray it more simply as monotheistic. And he told the Associated Press, I was raised in a belief system where there is one true God who empowers each of us with our own capacities. As we say in the Hindu tradition, God resides in each one of us. In the Christian tradition, you say were all made in the image of God.

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Hes trying to redefine his Hinduism in a way that sounds similar to Christianity, Chopra said. The whole project is to market Hinduism in a certain way to make it palatable to Americans.

Ramaswamys second tactic is by emphasizing particular values that he credits to Hinduismin ways some experts say is theologically hollow. He has claimed that Hinduism has led him to believe in our need to defend religious liberty, to stand for faith and patriotism, and stand unapologetically for the fact that we are one nation under God. Those values, though, are more political than anything else. He told a crowd in New Hampshire that religions like ours stand against wokeism, climatism, transgenderism, gender ideology, COVID-ism.

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Hes trying to signal to Christian nationalists that his faith should not be scary because it holds the same values that their faith does, Sundaram said. He wants to talk about strong borders, limited immigration, having a faith-based approach to mental health, of all things. And all those things, I think, are him trying to appeal to the Christian nationalist vision of Christianity. But those are not part of mainstream Hinduism per se.

Chopra agreed that Ramaswamys depiction of Hinduism is not the norm. His Hinduism is very selective, reductive, instrumental: a convenient understanding of Hinduism refashioned for the American concept of nationalism, he said. You see that in the version of Hinduism put forth by right-wing Hindu groups.

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Ramaswamys experience of his religion is naturally as individual as anyones. And as Audrey Truschke, the Asian studies director at Rutgers University, noted, its particularly easy to stake a specific theological stance with Hinduism because its so diverse. Theres so many ways to be Hindu, she said. Theres a flexibility within Hindu theology thats difficult to understand from a Christian perspective. But the issue, Chopra said, is how Ramaswamy is presenting all of Hinduism as closely related, at a philosophical level, to American evangelical Christianity. To say its the reality for all Hindus is absurd, he said. Its clearly motivated, because its not even a well-thought-out, well-developed, theologically argued position.

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Because Indians have dealt with Christians for centuries, there is a long tradition of making Hinduism appear more palatable to white Westerners, including by arguing for a monotheistic concept of God. But Chopra sees only politics in Ramaswamys stance. If he had developed the position, you could engage with it, he said. Vivek seems to be making this stuff up on the fly.

As Sundaram sees it, Ramaswamy does have a valid claim to Judeo-Christian values simply by growing up in the U.S., steeped in it. He went to a Catholic high school and often credits a piano teacher for his Protestant work ethic. He shouldnt need to bring his own faith into the conversation to prove his point.

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But he does it anyway. Whitehead, the scholar of Christian nationalism, said this tactic may not pay off for Ramaswamy, given just how racialized Christian nationalism is. Trump could use Christian nationalism as an effective tool without being a true believerTrump, it seems clear, has no strong religious feelingbecause of his appearance. He at least aligns with the implicit understanding of the true American: a white Protestant man, Whitehead said. But invoking a particular Christian vision of America can prove powerful when it comes to exciting voters, he noted. If it will work, that remains to be seen, he said.

Truschke said theres some precedent for Hindus embracing Christian nationalists, even as the latter typically would exclude them from their vision of the country. Hes not the first guy whos attempted an alliance with Christian nationalists, Truschke said. Thats a long-standing tactic. She referenced a group of right-wing Hindu nationalists who have allied with Georgia Republicans for their political goals having to do with religious liberty. Georgia Republicans will pray to their Christian God [at shared events], and yet its worth it to them as Hindus, because its an alliance of interests.

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Its all so awkward. Ramaswamy and those like him are promoting an ideologyHindu nationalismthat has led to the persecution of Christians. At the same time, despite being nonwhite, theyre promoting another ideologyChristian nationalismthat has ties to white supremacy. Hes offering to represent a religious demographic that often sees Hindus as heathen polytheists, or as souls that need saving.

The extent to which Vivek Ramaswamy is arguing theres a natural resonance between Christian nationalism and Hindu religious nationalism, I think, would make even Hindu far-right groups uncomfortable, Chopra said. To say his Hindu values are consistent with Christian nationalism, that he can be part of the same ideological familythat claim of Viveks is completely steeped in historical amnesia.

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Related From Slate Vivek Ramaswamys Worst Debate Moment Is a Big Problem for the GOP Now Read More

Theres one final reason, though, that Ramaswamy may be linking Hindu and Christian nationalism: He may be sending a signal to Hindus just as much as Christians. Indian Americans vote overwhelmingly for Democrats. But in recent years, with Modis rise in popularity, the partys hold has been slipping.

Theres been talk for years, Truschke said, social, political scientists wondering if the Indian American community at some point will flip.

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So by discussing the Vedas, Ramaswamy is trying to welcome more Hindus to the Republican Party. It might seem odd, appealing to Hindus with a Christianized version of their religion. But Hindu nationalism has always been more about culture than religion. It doesnt require religiosity, Truschke said. It only had to do with religious identity as far as Muslims and Christians were not included.

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Winning over right-wing Hindus would be a savvy move for Ramaswamy, Truschke said. They are not only wealthy but come with the benefit of a deeply organized set of organizations that can offer resources and mobilization, and can create narratives and turn out votes if needed, she said. All of that is really valuable.

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Sundaram thinks this tack may work. Part of his appeal to Hindus is saying, Actually, our faith is in line with these nationalistic Christian groups, and we should not be trying to oppose them but show where we have common ground,  she said. He sees himself being able to appeal to the larger Indian population by stanning Modi, whose popularity within the diaspora is far greater than the GOP. That is a deliberate call to Hindus that see Democrats as maybe not allies in the way they saw as before. Hes trying to disrupt the pervasive belief in the Hindu community that Republicans are inherently racist and white supremacist, and that we cant possibly vote for them even if we disagree with the policies on the Democratic side.

The question is: Can he do that credibly while also convincing white, Christian Republicans that he is not an outsider, but in a way, one of them too? Its a tricky and dubious balancing act. But given his recent rise in the polls, Sundaram said it might not be totally far-fetched.

I think Vivek Ramaswamy sees an opportunity here.
Recent data suggests a slight improvement in employment rates for disabled Americans. However, despite these positive strides, there remains a vast disparity in the workforce. Amy and Ben Wright, founders of Bitty & Beaus Coffee, stand at the forefront of a movement challenging this status quo, proving the potential of a business model centered on hiring individuals with disabilities. Their journey offers essential insights for small business owners nationwide.

While current national labor statistics show that only one out of five Americans with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) secure jobs, Bitty & Beaus Coffee provides a shimmer of hope. The Wrights are not merely business pioneers; theyre parents to two children with Down syndrome and staunch advocates for disability employment. Their thriving coffee chain now spans 19 stores with over 400 employees, the majority being individuals with disabilities.

During a conversation with CNBCs Sharon Epperson at the Small Business Playbook virtual summit, Ben Wright expressed his belief that the business world has an obligation toward disabled individuals. What I saw was that when people spent time with our kids, Bitty and Beau, who have Down syndrome, it changed them. They saw them as real people, not just oh, theres a person with a disability, he stated.

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He emphasized the need for a paradigm shift in societal and business attitudes towards the disabled, urging businesses to harness the untapped potential of this often-overlooked labor force. Not only is there a moral imperative, but there are also tangible benefits, including potential state and federal tax incentives. Beyond these financial perks, Ben highlighted the unforeseen advantages: Companies will find that theres a whole new level of innovation and problem-solving and creativity that will start to creep into a business when they start to have people with I/DD in their four walls.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) data from 2022 paints a picture of gradual improvement. Labor force participation for disabled workers reached 23.1%, and the employment-population ratio hit 21.3%  historic highs since the BLS started its records in 2008. Despite these achievements, disabled unemployment rates (7.6%) remain double those of non-disabled individuals.

The Wrights journey began in 2016 with their inaugural Bitty and Beaus Coffee shop in Wilmington, North Carolina. Since then, the franchise has expanded into 11 states. Their commitment to disability employment and inclusivity provides a blueprint for other small business owners.

Amy Wright imparted simple yet profound advice during the CNBC small business event: Start discussing disability employment within your company. The act of declaring this matters to us can profoundly impact company culture. One in five Americans has a disability. Therefore, recognizing the importance of disability employment signals a companys values and taps into an extensive network of potential workers connected to current employees.

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Ben emphasized the necessity of identifying appropriate roles for workers with disabilities and innovating to ensure their success. He shared that finding the perfect fit might require trial and error, but persistence pays off. And while the majority of Bitty & Beaus staff have disabilities, non-disabled employees play a pivotal role in supporting their colleagues, creating a balanced ecosystem.

Amy also stressed the significance of language in job postings. Rather than an afterthought, accommodations for disabled workers should be highlighted prominently, signaling a companys commitment to inclusivity.

As small businesses grapple with hiring challenges, the story of Bitty & Beaus Coffee emerges as a compelling case study. By prioritizing disability employment, businesses can tap into a vast, underutilized talent pool and foster a more inclusive and innovative work environment.
Hopefully your small to mid-sized business is already using social media to drive and keep business.

Today, a lively social presence isnt just a useful marketing channel  its a must. One recent survey of SMB customers from Time Warner found that 30 percent of respondents are likely to skip doing business with a company thats not on social media. The study also found that 47 percent of women and almost 32 percent of men say that consistently posting on Facebook is very effective when it comes to acquiring and retaining them as customers.

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If your company is using social media, youve probably got someone in charge of it all. Perhaps one or two of your people handle everything, including promoting content, monitoring activity around your brand, responding to customer questions or complaints, curating industry-related news and trends, and many other vital tasks.

While its certainly beneficial to have an individual or small team owning management of your business social media, your marketing efforts will be far more successful if everyone at your business contributes.

Why You Should Get Your Employees Involved

Why should you get everyone involved? First, consider the personable factor. Whether youre looking at community management, lead nurture, sales, customer service, retention or anything in between, your customers want to do business with people rather than corporations. Therefore, companies that put their people front and center are more enjoyable to do business with.

Another reason you want all your employees contributing is that your social media efforts could greatly benefit from the subject matter expertise available at your business.

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When you create a piece of content  a blog post, video or any other format  your businesss in-house subject matter experts can help you make sure the asset truly speaks to the issues that matter to your buyers. They can also help you to turn that piece into several additional items of content. The information in a blog post might turn into an infographic, a webinar, a podcast episode or a slide deck, with even clearer explanations of a hard-to-understand concept. Or a how-to section of a newsletter might be expanded into a video series that hashes out further details.

The multi-faceted nature of social media, and the many disparate skills and disciplines at play, is another reason to get everyone in your company involved. A good social presence relies on people for content writing, audio and video recording, photography and design, data and analytics, competitive analysis, community building, influencer outreach, advertising and more. The more help you can garner, the better!

If your small to mid-size business is active on social media, and youd like to include your entire team, there are some especially effective ways to make it happen. Here are five of them.

Tips for Encouraging Employee Social Media Advocacy

Incentivize Social Sharing

One excellent way for your employees to get involved in your social media efforts is to encourage them to share company-related content. This could mean sharing content thats created directly by your marketing team, or it could mean sharing industry news and trends.

Encouraging your people to share content thats relevant to your brand is beneficial for both your business and your employees as individuals. Not only does it help your business reach new audiences, but it also helps build your employees personal brands, as it positions them as experts in the niche.

If youre not sure how to begin with this social-sharing tactic, consider using an employee advocacy tool like Smarp. This platform gives you the gamification tools you need to incentivize your people.

To get the ball rolling, give your employees incentives to share your content. This can be done by creating competitions around their sharing activities. Games and weekly challenges can be created, and employees who share the most could be rewarded with gifts, discounts or donations to the charity of their choice.

Encourage Open Communication

When everyone on your team participates in your social media activities, its important to knock down the walls between them. In other words, get them communicating!

Sometimes, its hard enough to get members within the same department to communicate openly with one another. Communication across all departments can seem next to impossible. Dedicated social media meetings can help.

Consider setting up weekly or bi-weekly meetings for social-media participants to attend. Get everyone talking about new trends theyre spotting, competitor activities on social media and any recurring customer comments or complaints. Ask questions like, What types of things have been working? What hasnt been working as well as you hoped? What kinds of new ideas do you think we should try, and why?

When each meeting is finished, your employees should walk away inspired to try new tactics and make a positive difference for your business and their own personal brands.

Also, communication shouldnt cease after the meeting ends. A collaboration tool like Trello, for example, will help keep everyone on the same page. With file sharing capabilities, messaging, tagging and project management features, the momentum gained in a meeting can be kept alive long term.



Document Social Media Workflows

Workflows  or the steps and processes undertaken by a team to complete a task  are at the heart of every business. Regardless of whether your team defines and identifies their workflows, your business has them.

To use a short and simple example, consider the process of promoting a new blog post on social media. It starts when the article goes live on your site. Then someone needs to build out image assets to attach to social posts. After some hashtag research, and the posts need to be drafted and approved for each social channel. Next, the posts need to be scheduled. Other promotion channels like email newsletters, community forums, paid distribution platforms, co-marketing partners presences and influencer posts need to be tackled as well.

While the above process is relatively straightforward, youre probably already thinking of several complex workflows your employees engage with to succeed in your social media marketing. For smart workflow management, and to make sure all processes are efficient, it makes a lot of sense to map out the workflows that your team most commonly repeats in the form of a diagram or list.

When workflows are listed out, everyone can keep track of a projects progress. And during scheduled social-media meetings, efficiencies and improvements can be discussed.

If youve never documented your workflows before, consider using Process Street. This innovative platform enables you to easily create interactive workflow checklists for everyone on your team to use as ground zero for process replication and even automating steps.



Keep Everyone in the Posting Schedule Loop

When all (or most) of your employees are involved in your social sharing, things can get tricky. Although the advantages are huge, it does require extra coordination. The right hand needs to know what the left hand is doing, to use the old but true cliche.

Its important to keep a social media calendar that spells out everything scheduled to be posted each week, along with the links that have already been curated recently. While its okay if some of your branded presences and team members profiles share the same link within a couple days of each other, if anyone notices 50 profiles sharing out the same thing every day consistently, youre likely to come off as spammy.

Conversely, you dont want to let a valuable piece of industry news go completely unshared by your employees. If important links like these are included on your shared content calendar, it will ensure that they wont be forgotten or ignored.

One excellent marketing calendar tool to consider is CoSchedule. Not only does it organize your entire marketing plan in one place, but it also provides analytics and insights into the progress made by your people.

Suggest Great Third-Party Content for Your Employees to Curate

Weve discussed incentivizing your employees to share your companys content, but sharing original content is only the tip of the iceberg. To bring even more value to your branding and social media efforts, and to reduce the customer perception of spam, much of your employees social media time should be spent curating content. That is, sharing content published by others thats related to your industry.

When your employees share valuable content related to your business and your industry, your company will be viewed as an industry leader. Your employees also gain advantages, because content curation helps them gain strong reputations within the industry as well.

Discuss the kinds of content youd like your employees to curate and share. Better yet, give them access to a dynamic library of curated links they can share.

Further, consider using a content curation platform that helps you find content that matters to your industry. Anders Pink is one such platform. It gives you and your employees daily briefings with content on any topic or industry, from any source  including websites, RSS and Twitter. It then makes it easy to share this content on multiple social platforms.

Leveraging Employee Advocacy for Social Media Success

Continuing to encourage employee participation in your small to mid-sized businesss social media marketing can transform your online presence into a powerful force. As your team engages collectively, the impact on brand recognition, customer loyalty, and industry authority can be significant. Here are further strategies to optimize your approach and ensure a successful integration of employee advocacy:

Offer Training and Resources Provide training sessions on effective social media practices, etiquette, and the companys social media guidelines. Equip employees with resources such as templates, content ideas, and best practices to streamline their engagement.

Recognize and Celebrate Contributions Celebrate employees who actively contribute to social media efforts through recognition in team meetings or company-wide communications. Acknowledge and reward exceptional efforts, motivating others to participate and excel in their contributions.

Foster Creativity and Autonomy Encourage employees to bring their unique perspectives and creativity to social media activities. Give them the autonomy to share personal insights, industry updates, and experiences that resonate with their followers.

Showcase Employee Stories Highlight individual employee stories, achievements, and milestones on social media platforms. Humanize the brand by featuring behind-the-scenes moments, personal anecdotes, and employee-driven initiatives.

Provide Feedback and Collaboration Offer constructive feedback and collaborate with employees to refine their social media content and strategies. Engage in discussions to brainstorm ideas, address challenges, and continuously improve the collective impact.

Empower Employee Advocates Identify enthusiastic employee advocates who excel in social media engagement and content creation. Empower these advocates as social media ambassadors, allowing them to lead and inspire others in their efforts.

Measure and Share Success Establish key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure the impact of employee participation on social media metrics. Share success stories, metrics, and insights with the entire team to showcase the positive outcomes of their contributions.

Adapt and Evolve Together Stay updated on social media trends and platforms, adapting your strategies collectively to align with changing dynamics. Encourage continuous learning and experimentation, fostering a culture of growth and adaptability.



Strategies for Employee Advocacy Description Offer Training and Resources Provide social media training sessions, etiquette guidelines, and resources such as templates and best practices to empower employees to engage effectively. Recognize and Celebrate Contributions Celebrate and reward employees who actively contribute to social media efforts, fostering motivation and a sense of achievement. Foster Creativity and Autonomy Encourage employees to share unique perspectives and creative content on social media, allowing them the autonomy to personalize their engagement. Showcase Employee Stories Highlight individual employee stories, accomplishments, and behind-the-scenes moments on social platforms to humanize the brand and connect with the audience. Provide Feedback and Collaboration Offer constructive feedback and collaborate with employees to refine their social media strategies, enabling continuous improvement. Empower Employee Advocates Identify enthusiastic advocates and empower them as social media ambassadors to lead and inspire others in their engagement efforts. Measure and Share Success Establish measurable KPIs to evaluate the impact of employee participation on social media metrics, and share success stories and insights with the team. Adapt and Evolve Together Stay informed about social media trends, adapting strategies collectively to align with changing dynamics, and fostering a culture of growth and adaptability.

By implementing these strategies, your business can harness the full potential of employee advocacy in social media marketing. The collaborative effort of your team will create a dynamic and engaging online presence that resonates with your target audience, builds trust, and drives sustainable business growth.

In Conclusion

Getting your entire workforce to play a role in your companys social-media marketing can certainly be challenging. But this wide-reaching participation will benefit everyone involved, so its worth the investment.

Your business will gain new audiences and a human touch, and your employees will enjoy stronger personal brands. It takes encouragement, communication and organization. But the payoff is rewarding, and it can earn you a competitive edge that lasts for the long haul.
Instagram has rolled out new features that allow users to integrate music with photo carousels and foster collaborations with friends and fellow creators on their posts. This is to promote creativity and enhance engagement with its users, including small businesses.

Music and Memories Merge

For small business owners looking to market their products or services, the power of music combined with visual storytelling can be transformative. Instagrams recent upgrade lets users add music to their photo carousels, enabling a more immersive experience for their audience. This addition builds on their existing music-for-feed-photos tool, allowing businesses to capture the essence of their brand and resonate emotionally with viewers.

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Collaborative Content Creation

In an age where collaboration is the cornerstone of innovative content, Instagrams new Collabs feature is a game-changer. Businesses can now invite up to three collaborators to co-author a post, carousel, or reel. Once the invitation is accepted, the content becomes accessible to the audience of each collaborator, amplifying reach and engagement.

Worried about privacy settings? Instagram ensures flexibility. Both private and public accounts can join in on collaborative posts or reels. However, for private accounts to initiate a collaborative post, the invited collaborator should be a follower.

Engaging with Creators on Reels

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Reels has become a significant tool for businesses to creatively showcase their products and services. With the new Add Yours sticker, creators and artists can usher their followers into engaging prompts or challenges. Notably, creators have the privilege to select and highlight their favorite submissions, providing businesses with an opportunity for increased visibility.

For small businesses, this feature can be a boon. Engaging with influential creators can amplify their brand presence, especially if their reel gets picked as a favorite. If the reel is from a public account, any Instagram user can view it, further expanding its reach.

Expanding Musical Horizons

Recognizing musics paramount importance in digital content creation, Instagram is set to make its music library accessible to more countries. In a collaboration that hints at the convergence of social media and music streaming, Instagram is teaming up with Spotify in Mexico and Brazil. The partnership aims to spotlight 50 top songs from Instagram Reels on a new Reels Music Chart on Spotify.

For small businesses, especially those in Mexico and Brazil, this partnership offers a fresh avenue to leverage popular music to appeal to local audiences, further enhancing their brand image and engagement.

As Instagram continues its pursuit to refine user experience, these recent updates underscore the platforms commitment to fostering creativity, collaboration, and community. For small businesses striving to carve a niche in the digital space, these features provide innovative tools to weave compelling narratives, widen their reach, and deepen engagement.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, August 29)  Millions of public school students returned to their classrooms on Tuesday, Aug. 29, to welcome a new academic year and a new program initially rolled out by the government for kindergarten to Grade 10 learners.

Of the over 22 million enrollees, the Department of Education (DepEd) said around 19 million are students from public schools, while the rest are from private institutions.

DepEd officials said the total number of enrollees may hit 28 million as schools continue to update data on the Learner Information System, which may take two weeks, and late registrants come in.

Aside from the new school year, the new MATATAG curriculum is also expected to undergo pilot implementation this year. DepEd introduced the new program which reduced the competencies that students need to master following a two-year study.

Around 70% of the current curriculum was cut, with learning competencies down to around 3,600 from over 11,000 to give more time to foundational skills for a better learning outcome. The learning areas in the early levels were also cut from seven to five to include Language, Reading and Literacy, Math, Makabansa, and Good Manners and Right Conduct.

"There are competencies that are only nice to know but not a must to know that's why we aim for essential learning competencies," said Jocelyn Andaya, director of DepEd Bureau of Curriculum and Development Director, in an Aug. 11 briefing.

An article posted on the website of the Second Congressional Commission on Education (Edcom II)  the national commission tasked to undertake a comprehensive national assessment and evaluation of the Philippine education sector  indicated that the pilot rollout will be delayed. It said DepEd has yet to come up with the list of the 30 participating schools in six regions and learning materials have yet to be distributed.

The old curriculum would be used in the first two weeks of the academic year as authorities finalize the participants, with the new curriculum to be implemented once the pilot schools are selected, Edcom II quoted DepEd Director Jocelyn Andaya as saying. The phased implementation will cover Kindergarten and Grades 1, 4, and 7 for the current school year.

Meanwhile, some members of the Alliance of Concerned Teachers welcomed the new academic year by staging a protest in Mendiola, Manila early in the morning.

They urged the government to address various education issues and questioned the alleged misappropriated confidential and intelligence funds for DepEd.
Ever found yourself deep in a Quora thread, typing away an answer and thinking about the value of knowledge? Youre not alone. Many are curious about how to make money on Quora, especially when theyre investing time to craft detailed answers or ask thought-provoking questions. Lets explore how this platform can be more than just a place for sharing wisdom.

Quora: The Knowledge-Sharing Platform

Ah, Quora. The website probably pops up every time youre deep in a Google search rabbit hole. But what exactly is it? At its core, Quora is a platform designed for individuals to pose questions and get answers from the global community. The beauty of Quora lies in its simple premise  people helping people. Answer questions, share insights, expertise, and experiences, users help in building a vast knowledge base accessible to anyone with internet access.

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The Scope and Reach of Quora Users

Quora isnt limited to tech enthusiasts or trivia lovers. With topics ranging from business and technology to art and philosophy, the platform boasts a diverse community of professionals, enthusiasts, and everyone in between. This eclectic mix ensures a wide variety of perspectives and expertise. For someone looking to monetize, this means theres always an audience out there, no matter how niche your knowledge might be. Think about it: a platform where an aerospace engineer can discuss rocket propulsion in one thread and their favorite cookie recipe in another. Thats the reach and potential of Quora.

Host Discussions on Quora

Its not just about answering questions. Hosting discussions on Quora can be a game changer for those wanting to monetize their presence. Think of it as moderating a roundtable, but online. By initiating topics that engage users, you establish yourself as a thought leader in your domain. As your credibility grows, so does your network. And while discussions might not have a direct paycheck associated, they indirectly open doors. Whether its consulting offers, speaking engagements, or business opportunities, leading engaging discussions can pave the way.

Publish Questions on Quora

Sure, answering questions is great. But publishing them? Thats where the art lies. Crafting a well-thought-out question can be as valuable as giving a detailed answer. Heres why: a good question can attract experts from various fields, increasing traffic and views to your profile. More views often translate to higher visibility and authority on the platform. And, as with hosting discussions, this can indirectly contribute to potential earnings. A well-framed question might just be the conversation starter you need to connect with professionals, influencers, or potential clients.

How Many Views on Quora Are Needed to Make Money?

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Views on Quora are an essential metric, much like on any other content-driven platform. The more eyes on your content, the more influential and recognized you become. However, its worth noting that Quora isnt a direct pay-per-view model. Instead, views serve as an indicator of your contents reach and its potential to earn.

To put things in perspective, Quora Plus launched along with the Quora Partner Program back in 2021. These programs allow users to earn money based on the engagement their questions receive. Some users report earning a few cents for questions that gather a few thousand views, while others have earned hundreds of dollars for questions that go viral, amassing over a million views. The exact figures can vary greatly based on multiple factors like ad revenue, engagement level, and topic relevance.

Driving Factors Behind Quora Views: From Quality Answers to Google Search Engine Optimization

The popularity of the Topic: Common or trending topics naturally attract more views. If youre answering a question about a current event or a universally relatable subject, chances are itll gain traction quicker than more niche topics. Quality of the Response: Quora users appreciate depth and clarity. A well-researched answer thats both informative and easy to understand often gets upvoted, increasing its visibility. SEO Optimization: Many Quora answers rank high on Google search results. If your answer is optimized for search engines (with relevant keywords, structured content, and clear headings), it can pull traffic from outside of Quora too. Engagement: Answers that receive more upvotes, shares, and comments get pushed to the top. Engaging with other users, responding to comments, and promoting healthy discussion can increase the visibility of your content. Consistency: Regularly contributing high-quality answers builds your reputation on the platform. Over time, consistent contributors amass followers, which means a guaranteed set of eyes on every new piece of content they post. Use of Visuals: Incorporating relevant images, infographics, or charts can make your answer stand out, thus attracting more views. External Sharing: Promoting your Quora answers on other platforms like Twitter, LinkedIn, or your personal blog can drive additional traffic to your content. Quora may also help you gain a built-in readership blogging.

How to Make Money Answering Questions on Quora

Quora, at its essence, is a vibrant community of knowledge seekers and sharers. And while its primary goal is to spread knowledge, theres a silver lining for those looking to earn: answer questions. Selecting the right questions to answer is a craft in itself. Target those that align with your expertise, are trending, or have the potential to gain visibility. The crux, however, lies in delivering value. A detailed, value-driven response not only positions you as an expert but also paves the way for monetization opportunities.

Mike Vestil gives some tips on how to make money on Quora:

Answer Questions Effectively: Crafting High-Quality Responses to Boost Earnings

To make your answers shine:

Research First: Ensure your response is accurate. A quick cross-check of facts can elevate the trustworthiness of your answer. Be Clear and Concise: While depth is appreciated, avoid unnecessary jargon. Your answer should be understandable by a broad audience. Implement SEO Principles: Use relevant keywords naturally within your answer. Consider the kind of terms people might type into search engines when looking for information on the topic. Add Visuals: A relevant image, infographic, or chart can enhance your answers appeal. Engage with Commenters: Engaging with those who comment on your answers can lead to further upvotes and increased visibility.

How to Make Money with the Quora Partner Program

Beyond answering, theres a structured way to earn on Quora: The Quora Partner Program. Its a system where Quora shares ad revenue with its users based on the engagement their questions generate. So, even though youre asking the questions, youre earning based on the traffic and ad interactions those questions generate. Its like getting a slice of the pie from Quoras advertising earnings, all thanks to your engaging questions.

Enrolling in the Quora Partner Program: The Essential Steps

Even though the English version of the Quora Partner Program closed about a year ago, the program remains active in many other languages. For individuals fluent in these supported languages and keen on participating, heres what you need to know about the process:

Invitation: The program is still invite-only. Quora sends out invitations to users they believe could be valuable contributors, particularly in languages where they aim to encourage growth. Acceptance: Once you receive an invitation, ensure you read and adhere to Quoras policies and guidelines before accepting. Set Up Payment Details: To obtain the earnings from your contributions, its crucial to input and confirm your payment details in the system.

Boosting Earnings via the Quora Partner Program

Maximizing your earnings in the Quora Partner Program boils down to understanding both the dynamics of Quora itself and broader online engagement metrics. Lets explore some strategies that can give your questions the edge, potentially ramping up your earnings.

1. Craft Thought-Provoking Questions

Why It Works : Questions that stir curiosity or address current trends tend to attract more views and answers.

: Questions that stir curiosity or address current trends tend to attract more views and answers. Example: Instead of asking, What are the benefits of AI?, a more intriguing question might be, How might AI change everyday life by 2030?

2. Engage with the Quora Community

Why It Works : Active engagement fosters a sense of community, encourages more answers, and boosts the visibility of your questions.

: Active engagement fosters a sense of community, encourages more answers, and boosts the visibility of your questions. Example: If someone provides a detailed answer to your question, take a moment to thank them or ask a follow-up question. This not only builds rapport but can also lead to a thread of discussion that garners even more views.

3. Harness the Power of Google Algorithms

Why It Works : Many Quora questions rank high in Google search results. By understanding SEO (Search Engine Optimization) basics, you can phrase your questions in ways that are more likely to be picked up by search engines.

: Many Quora questions rank high in Google search results. By understanding SEO (Search Engine Optimization) basics, you can phrase your questions in ways that are more likely to be picked up by search engines. Example: If youre asking a question about best practices for remote work, consider what people might type into Google, like Top remote work best practices in 2023? Incorporating keywords and phrasing it like a search query can help.

4. Tap into Broad Yet Specific Topics

Why It Works : Broad topics appeal to a wider audience, but making them specific can cater to targeted, engaged users.

: Broad topics appeal to a wider audience, but making them specific can cater to targeted, engaged users. Example: Instead of just asking about digital marketing strategies, you could specify, What are effective digital marketing strategies for e-commerce startups?

5. Monitor and Learn from Analytics

Why It Works : Quora provides insights on views, upvotes, and shares. By monitoring these, you can understand which questions gain traction and why.

: Quora provides insights on views, upvotes, and shares. By monitoring these, you can understand which questions gain traction and why. Example: If you notice a particular question about sustainable technologies gaining a lot of views, you might delve deeper into that topic in your subsequent questions.

6. Stay Updated with Global Trends and News

Why It Works : Questions relevant to current events or global trends tend to generate more engagement.

: Questions relevant to current events or global trends tend to generate more engagement. Example: If theres a significant breakthrough in renewable energy, asking questions around its implications, challenges, or comparisons with existing technologies can be timely and engaging.

Quora Spaces: Monetizing Your Knowledge Community

Quora is more than just a Q&A platform; with its Quora Space feature, it dives deeper into the community-building realm. Spaces allow users to create, manage, and curate content around specific topics or interests, essentially carving out niche communities within the broader Quora ecosystem.

Earning through Quora Spaces : A well-managed and active Space can be a gold mine. How? When your Space becomes a recognized hub for a topic, it attracts both casual browsers and dedicated followers. The ad revenue generated from the traffic to your Space can be a significant source of earnings.

: A well-managed and active Space can be a gold mine. How? When your Space becomes a recognized hub for a topic, it attracts both casual browsers and dedicated followers. The ad revenue generated from the traffic to your Space can be a significant source of earnings. Content is King : As with all platforms, engaging content is paramount. Regularly updating your Space with valuable insights, discussions, or even external links can make it a go-to resource. This not only helps in retaining your existing follower base but also in attracting new members.

: As with all platforms, engaging content is paramount. Regularly updating your Space with valuable insights, discussions, or even external links can make it a go-to resource. This not only helps in retaining your existing follower base but also in attracting new members. SEO Optimization : Quora often ranks well in search engine results. Therefore, ensuring your content is SEO-friendly can drive organic traffic from search engines straight to your Space. Remember to incorporate relevant keywords naturally and maintain a high content quality.

: Quora often ranks well in search engine results. Therefore, ensuring your content is SEO-friendly can drive organic traffic from search engines straight to your Space. Remember to incorporate relevant keywords naturally and maintain a high content quality. Building a Strong Follower Base: Your followers are your most significant assets. Engaging with them, understanding their queries, and addressing their interests can foster a loyal community. Additionally, collaborating with other Spaces or influential Quora users can amplify your reach.

Quora Business Profile: Leverage Your Brand

Stepping away from individual users, Quora offers a unique feature for businesses and brands  the Quora Business Profile. Unlike a regular Quora account profile that centers around an individual, the Business Profile is designed to showcase a brand, company, or entity.

A Business Profile provides an excellent avenue for brands to engage with a targeted audience, answer queries related to their industry, and establish themselves as thought leaders in their field. Furthermore, it can be used as a subtle promotional tool without coming off as overly salesy.

Setting Up and Optimizing Your Business Profile on The Quora Website

Sign Up: Head to Quoras main page and select Create a Business Profile. Ensure you have a regular Quora account first, as its necessary for this process. Input Business Details: Fill in your business name, a brief description, industry type, and other relevant details. Profile Picture and Banner: Use a high-resolution logo for the profile picture and a relevant banner image that resonates with your brands ethos. Link to Your Official Website: This adds authenticity to your profile and drives potential traffic to your website. Engage: Answer questions relevant to your industry. This is a subtle way to showcase your expertise and promote your brand simultaneously. SEO Optimization: Just as with Quora Spaces, ensure your answers and posts are optimized for search engines. Incorporate industry-relevant keywords and maintain a consistent posting schedule. Collaborate: Engage with other Business Profiles or influential Quora users in your industry. Answering their questions or sharing their content can widen your reach. Monitor Analytics: Quora provides valuable insights into the engagement and reach of your answers. Use this data to refine your strategy and focus on what works.

Remember, your Business Profile is an extension of your brand on Quora.

Unconventional Ways to Make Money on Quora

Quora, at its core, is a platform for knowledge sharing, but some savvy users have leveraged it to carve out alternative revenue streams. Here are some lesser-known yet effective methods:

Method Description Consulting Offer expert advice consistently to attract users seeking in-depth consultation leading to freelance opportunities. Affiliate Marketing Answer product-related questions and embed affiliate links. Disclose any affiliate links to the audience. Driving Traffic to Blog/Website Answer related questions to funnel users to your primary platform for ads, products, or increased page views.

Consulting: If you consistently provide expert advice on a particular subject, you may catch the attention of users seeking in-depth consultation. This can pave the way for freelance or consulting opportunities. Affiliate Marketing: Answer questions related to products or services, you can embed affiliate links. If a user purchases through your link, you earn a commission. Remember to disclose any affiliate links to maintain transparency with your audience. Driving Traffic to Your Blog or Website: If you run a blog or website, answering related questions on Quora can act as a funnel, directing readers to your primary platform where they might engage with ads, purchase products, or simply boost your page views.

FAQs: How to Make Money on Quora

How can the Quora account settings be tailored to make money on Quora?

Ensure your profile is complete with a clear photo and compelling bio. Set email notifications for topics you excel in to stay updated. Make use of the Knows About section to highlight areas of expertise which can attract consulting gigs or other opportunities.

What is the best approach to structuring Quora answers for maximum engagement?

Start with a captivating introduction, use bullet points or numbered lists for clarity, incorporate relevant images, and conclude with a call to action or question to encourage interaction.

What role does keyword research play in visibility on the Quora platform?

Keyword research helps in understanding what users are searching for. By incorporating these keywords in your questions and answers, you increase the chances of your content being discovered both on Quora and search engines.

Can a Quora Business Profile improve ranking in Google searches?

Yes. Quora pages often rank high in Google search results. A well-maintained Business Profile with quality answers can enhance visibility and improve rankings.

What are some effective strategies to host engaging discussions and post relevant questions on Quora?

Understand your audiences interests, keep up with current events or trends in your industry, use open-ended questions to foster discussion, and collaborate with other Quora users or spaces to co-host discussions or share content.

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Social medias potential impact for small businesses cannot be understated. But if youve been using social media for awhile, then you probably already know a lot of the standard tips. However, there are plenty of other things you can do on social media aside from just posting product photos and responding to customer inquiries. Here are some social media marketing tips that you dont hear every day.

How to Use Social Media For Marketing Creatively

Post Product Creation Videos

You already know that you can, and should, post information about your products on social media. But not many businesses actually give customers a behind the scenes look at what goes into making their products. You can do this easily through quick videos on YouTube, Facebook, Instagram or even Snapchat.

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Start a Hashtag for Testimonials

Testimonials can also be great content for businesses to share on social media. But finding testimonials that can be boiled down enough to fit into a tweet or social media post can be a challenge. So consider creating a hashtag specifically for that purpose and then encourage your customers to share their testimonials in that format. You can then repost their thoughts directly to your followers.

Honor an Employee of the Week

Social media is a great outlet for sharing behind-the-scenes looks at your business. And your employees can be a big part of that. So you can start an employee of the week or month program and share a bit about your best team members on social media channels.

Share a Photo an Hour

You can also share behind-the-scenes looks at your company through regular photos. A few times a year, designate a day where you share a photo each hour, or at least a few times a day, to give people a realistic view of what goes on over the course of a day.

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Share Tutorials That Use Your Products

Aside from just sharing information or photos of your products, you can use social media to give people cool ideas for how to actually use them. So you can create and share quick tutorials that highlight some of those unique uses or ideas.

Make Stop-Motion Videos on Instagram

Stop motion videos can be a great way to showcase some of those tutorials or unique ideas. Or you can even use them to tell stories quickly and in a unique and fun format.

Share Boomerang Images of Products in Use

Boomerang is an Instagram app that lets you create really quick gif-like videos. Theyre not long enough to tell a story or share a bunch of steps, but they are sufficient to show some movement. So you can use them to demonstrate simple features of products in some cases.

Start a Group Pinterest Board

You already know that Pinterest can be a great outlet for sharing content. But it can also be a great way to interact with your audience through group boards. Start a board where customers can share images of your products in use or just posts related to your industry. And add your own content as well.

Partner with Other Companies to Share Product Ideas

You can actually amplify the reach of some of your posts by working with other companies to create social media campaigns. Consider showing off your product in use with another companys product and both of you can share it on your channels. This can be especially useful for posts like recipes or DIY projects.

Have Employees Take Over Your Accounts

Having the same people run your social media accounts every day can mean that it starts to get repetitive after awhile. But you can change it up a bit by having different employees take over your accounts on occasion to share a different view of your company.

Have Customers Take Over Your Accounts

You might also host a contest or promotion where you choose a customer or follower to take over your accounts for a day to share some of their favorite content, including how they use your products or services.

Recommend Other Accounts for People to Follow

Most of your social media followers also follow other brands that are somewhat related to your industry. So you can add some value for them by suggesting some other accounts that you think they might find useful.

Add Personality with GIFs

On Twitter and other social platforms, you have the opportunity to add GIF images to your posts, which can inject some personality and movement into your posts.

Create a Recurring Character

If your company has a mascot, logo or even a pet or office decoration that really represents your company, you can use that as a sort of recurring character in your social media posts that your followers can easily recognize and interact with.

Ask for Photo Submissions

The content you share on your social media channels doesnt always have to come directly from you. You can ask your customers regularly to share their photos of your products or anything related to your industry and then share those photos.

Have a Caption This Contest

You might also share some photos that your followers can have some fun with. Share a funny photo of your team or even one related to pop culture and ask followers for caption ideas, then share the best ones.

Create Your Own Meme

It might sound silly, but memes also give you the opportunity to share some fun content with your social media audience. If theres a popular meme that could somehow fit with your business or industry, create your own caption and share it with your followers.

Host a Q&A on Snapchat

Social media can be a great way to answer customer questions. But you can go even deeper than that and host a question and answer session where followers can ask you anything on Snapchat, then answer those questions in quick clips on the app.

Ask Trivia Questions

Another way to spur some engagement with your audience is to ask some trivia questions about your company or your industry. You might even offer some kind of prize to a follower who answers correctly.

Celebrate Your Companys History on #tbt

Throwback Thursday, or #tbt, is a weekly hashtag on Twitter and Instagram where people post throwback photos. You can get your business involved and share some history by posting old photos on Thursdays each week or even just on occasion.

Start a Weekly Series

You can also create your own weekly theme for social media posts like #tbt. Come up with something that fits with your industry and keep it up every week. You can even encourage your followers to participate as well.

Interview Customers

Interviews make for great online content. You can create a short video or text interview with some of your customers and share it on social to get even more people involved.

Celebrate Odd Holidays

Holiday promotions are commonplace on social media. But you dont have to wait for the major ones. Even weird holidays like talk like a pirate day can make for interesting content.

Compile a List of Industry Updates

Each week or month, put together a list of updates that are relevant to your followers or your industry and tag related accounts.

Host a Regular Hangout

Google+, Periscope, Facebook and other social platforms allow you broadcast live. So you can announce a weekly or monthly hangout with your audience. Keep a set schedule so people know when youll be broadcasting.

Post Sneak Peeks

You can also post some sneak peeks of new products or offerings where you only give a partial view to followers. Then you can even ask customers to guess what they think will be released in order to get them more involved.

Support a Charity or Cause

Customers love a socially conscious business. So you can use social media to spread the word about important causes or share information about different charity organizations.

Live Tweet Events

When you attend events for your business, or even if theres a televised event that has something to do with your industry, you can tweet or post throughout the whole thing to get followers involved.

Repost Instagram Photos from a Dedicated Hashtag

On Instagram, you can start a dedicated hashtag for your customers or followers to use for images related to your company or industry. Then you can browse through those tags and find images to repost to your own account  with permission, of course!

Have Influencers Take Over Your Account

Influencers are often other social media users that have significant followings and influence in a particular niche or industry. So if you can find influencers that fit with your business, you can have them take over your account for a day to get some fresh content and increase your reach.

Co-host a Twitter Chat

You might also connect with those influencers to host chats on Twitter. Twitter chats have long been considered one of the best ways to increase engagament on the platform. But by working with other influencers in your industry, you can increase your reach even more.

Share Comic Strips

Images are popular on social media. And images that tell stories can be particularly effective. So you can share or even create your own comic strips to share on social media.

Ask Customers for Predictions

There are plenty of ways for businesses to get customers engaged in conversations on social media. But asking for predictions about the future of your industry or other relevant topics can be a particularly good way to get those conversations started.

Play This or That

You can also ask questions of your audience. If you give them just a couple of choices, it makes it easy for people to respond and might even spur some friendly debate.

Share Book or Movie Recommendations

It can also be beneficial to post things on social media that dont relate directly to your business from time to time. Things like books and movies are topics that interest the majority of consumers on some level. So you might consider sharing thoughts or recommendations on things that you think might interest your social media followers.

Have Birthday Sales

Everyone loves birthdays. So you might use social media as a way to really make a big deal about your companys birthday or even the birthdays of your team members.

Post Staff Recommendations

To go even further, you can have your team members pick some of their favorite products or pieces of content to share on social media. You can offer discounts on those items on each team members birthday or just round up some employee favorites in a few social media posts.

Share Playlists

Music streaming services like Spotify allow you to create online playlists that you can easily share with others on social media. So it could be fun to create playlists for specific occasions or situations and share them with your followers.

Post Time Lapse Videos

Videos are great for telling stories online. But if you want to really show some change over time, you might consider doing a time lapse video rather than a traditional one. You can post quick time lapses on platforms like Instagram or even more advanced ones on YouTube.

Host Weekly Challenges for Followers

Challenges and contests can be really beneficial for building engagement online. You can start a simple challenge like a photography contest or scavenger hunt and repeat it each week to really get customers involved.

Create Joke Products

To inject some humor into your social media content, you might consider creating some joke products, or at least visual depictions of those joke products, that are similar to your offerings, but with a ridiculous twist.

Have a Sale Directly on Social Media

Want to increase sales on social media really quickly? You can have a quick sale of clearance products directly on platforms like Instagram, rather than trying to get people to visit your website or physical location.

Use Instagram Direct Messaging to Send Exclusive Promotions

Also on Instagram, you have the opportunity to reach out to customers directly through the direct messaging feature. So you can send exclusive offers to your best customers or followers. Just dont abuse the feature and send out mass messages all the time with this feature.

Put the Spotlight on Partners

The focus doesnt always have to be on your business when it comes to social media. You can also highlight some other businesses youve partnered with to nurture that relationship and potentially increase your social reach through those connections.

Ask for Content Requests

And finally, you should always keep your followers input in mind when creating content for social media. You might even occasionally ask people if they have any requests, just to be sure youre keeping your content fresh and interesting.

Strategy Description Benefits Platform Behind-the-Scenes Content Share product creation videos and glimpses into your business's daily operations to humanize your brand. Builds authenticity, fosters connection. YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat Testimonial Hashtag Create a dedicated hashtag for customer testimonials, encouraging them to share their experiences. Easily aggregate content, showcase user satisfaction. Any social platform Employee Spotlights Honor outstanding employees by featuring them on social media, offering a personal touch and showcasing your team's strengths. Employee recognition, showcasing company culture. Any social platform Sneak Peeks Share partial views of upcoming products or offerings, enticing curiosity and engagement. Generates excitement, encourages user involvement. Any social platform Interactive Challenges Host weekly contests or challenges like photography competitions to foster engagement and build a sense of community. Increases interaction, promotes user-generated content. Any social platfo

In summary, while established social media practices are vital for small businesses, exploring unconventional tactics can yield substantial rewards. Strategies such as sharing behind-the-scenes content, creating testimonial hashtags, highlighting employees, offering sneak peeks, and hosting interactive challenges diversify engagement and enhance your brands presence. These tactics contribute to authenticity, community-building, and sustained growth across different social media platforms.

Conclusion

In summary, while the core principles of social media marketing are fundamental for small businesses, venturing beyond the conventional practices can yield substantial rewards. This collection of innovative strategies offers a diverse toolkit to amplify your brands presence. Tactics such as behind-the-scenes content, employee spotlights, and dedicated testimonial hashtags humanize your brand and establish authentic connections. Diversifying content through tutorials, sneak peeks, and stop-motion videos captivates audiences, while collaborations with influencers, humor-infused posts, and interactive sessions build a vibrant online community. Personalized touches like direct messaging for promotions and partnership highlights deepen customer relationships. Incorporating these unconventional strategies not only distinguishes your brand but also propels it towards meaningful engagement and sustained growth in the dynamic landscape of social media.
Understanding chosen as theme for this years edition.

The fjuzn festival on the road, in Trencin in August 2023. (Source: Facebook/Tomas Kusa)

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Slovakia will celebrate the almost 300,000 foreigners living in the country in late September when the liked [fjuzn] festival begins.

The event will be held from September 22 to 29 in Bratislava. Its main theme will be Understanding.

One of the festival's goals is to bring Slovak people closer to the life of foreigners living in Slovakia, who are not often heard or seen in society.

We want to understand the world we have at home, explained Veronika Fishbone Vlckova, director of the Milan Simecka Foundation. The foundation has organised the festival for almost 20 years.

During the festival, visitors will learn more about the lives of five foreigners based in Slovakia, including Yehuda Gabrielita Madjiah from Indonesia, the Ukrainian Kasha Potrohosh and Katarina Zivanovic from Serbia.

Visitors can also look forward to great musical performances, visual arts, theatre, debates, community activities and events for children. One headliner will be the well-known British performer Conducta. This producer is behind AJ Traceys hit Ladbroke Grove.
If the Build-Outs of Coffee are any indicator, Urban Sailor Coffee is on the rise. The steady upward trajectory of the Salt Lake City coffee brand can be seen over the last three seasons of the feature series. In 2021, they started life as a pop-up shop in the passenger seat of a Ural Sidecar Motorcycle. Then in 2022, Urban Sailor opened their first brick and mortar, bringing along with it an all new roasting operation. And now here we are in 2023 and Urban Sailor is back with an all new location.

For their second cafe, the brand is taking up residence in a new downtown SLC development called the Post District. They are keeping with the dark and wood aesthetic of the first cafe, but inverting it a bit in favor of more wood and a little less dark. Its always interesting to follow the arc of a new coffee concept from its humble beginnings, and were grateful to continue to be able to report on it with the Build-Outs of Coffee. So lets check out what Urban Sailor Coffee in Salt Lake City, Utah has in store for us here in 2023.

The 2023 Build-Outs of Coffee is presented by DONA. The 2023 Build-Outs of Coffee is sponsored by La Marzocco, Pacific Barista Series, Acaia, and Marco Beverage Systems.

As told to Sprudge by Tyler Anderson.

For those who arent familiar, will you tell us about your company?

We started Urban Sailor Coffee just two years ago in the middle of the pandemic with the idea that we would start small, building a coffee brand that we would be proud of and see where it took us. We launched Urban Sailor Coffee in the spring of 2021 with a sidecar motorcycle coffee bar that was featured in the 2021 Build-Outs. In early 2022, we opened our first brick-and-mortar cafe in the chic Sugarhouse neighborhood just southeast of downtown Salt Lake City. That first cafe was also featured in the 2022 Build-Outs, and we are proud to say that it has just gotten busier since we opened the doors a year and a half ago. Since opening our first cafe, we have also begun roasting our own coffee about a year ago and proudly serve several single origin specialty coffees and blends that weve come up with at our cafe and online to coffee bag subscribers. We have very recently opened the doors to our second cafe locationthis one right in downtown Salt Lake City in a new development called the Post District, which is visible as youre entering or leaving Salt Lake City from the main highway (I-15) or the highway from the SLC International Airport (I-80). Were so proud with how both locations have turned out and we applied a few new things in this second buildout that we learned from our first cafe buildout.

Can you tell us a bit about the new space?

This new space is in the corner of a newly constructed building that is surrounded by more historic buildings on the block. The new building we are in is the hub of a new neighborhood of apartments and condominiums (580 apartments and condos to be exact), and houses the leasing office, the business center and co-working spaces, the gym and pool areas, as well as a club house for events. The corner we are in is the main entrance for that building and has 30-foot floor-to-ceiling windows on two walls. Its a much more open and bright space compared to our first cafe, which is a bit more cozy and dark. We have a large geometric wall behind our bar that goes from floor to ceiling like the windows across from it, and the wall is all warm oak wood paneling. The front bar also has oak wood but wood slats in a geometric pattern against a black background. All our countertops are natural stone in black and gray. The geometric theme is carried on with the ceramic tiles on the wall above the back bar. There is bar seating along the windows on both walls and a long communal table that can seat up to 12 people. There is also available seating in the mezzanine overlooking the coffee bar, which is part of the business center and co-working space. The floating wood staircase leading up to the mezzanine is one of my favorite features of the space. We also have a large, covered patio area out front where we have additional seating. The block has several great restaurants that have either opened or are in the process of building out, so this block really will have a neighborhood feel when its all complete with a small grocery store, multiple places to eat, and of course a place for the residents and visitors to get specialty coffee right in the middle of the block.

Whats your approach to coffee?

Our approach to coffee remains simple in the sense that we stick to the ratios and targets that we established over a year ago with our house blends (both from a roasting and an extraction standpoint). We do constantly try new coffees from different origins and occasionally a new coffee will make its way into a new blend. We recently introduced a new blend we call Sabroso and its a really fruity mix of a few Latin American coffees lead by a high cup score Colombian that were really loving. We continue to sell a dark roast blend that we call Void, but we are best known for our Nordic style light-medium roasted blend we call Jordbaer. We continually dial in our roasting process and have doubled our between-batch-protocol (BBP) time based on a suggestion from Scott Rao, which has made a difference in our consistency from batch to batch and from season to season here in Utah as well. When we started this journey just two years ago, I wasnt sure that too many people would like the kinds of roasted coffee that I love but I hoped if we made and offered what we were passionate about, others would like it tooturns out that was correct.

Any machines, coffees, special equipment lined up?

It was important to us that we try to be as consistent as we could when building out our second cafe so that we could train our new baristas and backbar staff at either location and schedule them to work at either location without too many issues. The two cafes are only about 10 minutes away from each other and many of our employees live in between the two locations making it easy for them to go either way. We have loved our Mavam Mach 2 at our first location for the last year and a half and so it was an easy decision to get a second one for our new cafe. Mavam has added an automated pre-infusion feature since we bought our first Mach 2 and so we upgraded our OG Mach 2 to make them consistent at both cafes. We went with Mahlkonig E65S GBW espresso grinders for the new cafe and love them so much that we upgraded our first cafe with an E65S GBW as the primary espresso grinder. We also went with another Curtis G4 ThermoPro batch brewer, but this time upgraded to the Twin brewer with 208v power so that we can make up to 15 gal of coffee per hour rather than the 5 gal per hour our single Curtis G4 ThermoPro can do. This will help us with the events we still do with our sidecar motorcycle coffee bar. I finally got my Mahlkonig EK43 coffee grinder for this second cafesomething every cafe aspires to have on bar. We did another built-in kegerator for our cold brew and nitro cold brew customers (which are many during the hot months especially). We are still roasting all our coffees on a Diedrich IR-5 and using Cropster to manage our green inventory and store our roast profiles. We may outgrow our IR-5 in the next year or two and look to upgrade to a 15 or 25kg roaster to support our business.

How is your project considering sustainability?

We are spending more time sourcing our COGS in a way that reduces not only cost but also our carbon footprint by getting as much locally as we can. We are working with the city to install an electric charging station in the garage right behind our new cafe and have applied for grants to add an electric delivery vehicle so that we can deliver to our local coffee subscribers in a more environmentally friendly way. We continue to work with our coffee importing partners to buy green coffee from ethical sources and are always looking for opportunities to try coffees that are organically grown, shade-grown, or coffees designated as being grown by woman or indigenous communities. Our customers love hearing the back-stories of the coffees we find and serve to them. I am hoping to go on at least one origin trip this fall or winter to better educate myself and meet some of the growers we are supporting through our cafes.

Whats your hopeful target opening date/month?

Weve already had our soft opening on June 15th, and we plan to announce a grand opening once the remainder of our furniture arrives here in mid-July. There is still a lot of construction happening on this city block, so weve had to give good directions to our regulars who have wanted to come checkout the new space. Soon several entrances will be open but for now there is just one way in off 500 S. and 350 W.

Are you working with craftspeople, architects, and/or creatives that youd like to mention?

This cafe is a very small part of a very large city project that is being done by the Lowe Property Group who have been great to work with. Id like to also mention MVE Architects and Big-D Construction who have also been great and deserve most of the credit for this buildout.

Thank you!

Thank you so much for your supportIm amazed at how many coffee professionals have learned about us through the Sprudge Build-Outs series.

Urban Sailor Coffee is located at 570 S. 300 W. Suite 100 in Salt Lake City, Utah. Visit their official website and follow them on Facebook Twitter , and Instagram
We have seen a minimum of 1 point up to 3 points higher cupping scores.  Ben Carlson, Long Miles Coffee.

The first case study compares TWWs calibrated water profile, the espresso profile, against distilled water. Cupping scores increased up to 1.37 points validated at origin by Honduras coffee farmer Juan Angel Welchez, La Sala Raul Moreno and Carlos Rene Guerra.

Juan Welchez explained, Every cent added will contribute towards a stronger coffee industry and a more prosperous future for farmers like us. These tests were also validated by three Q-graders, further proving that the easy-to-use calibrate water profile increases cupping scores and will help coffee farmers get better scores at origin.

In the second case study Long Miles Coffee founder Ben Carlson explains, We have seen a minimum of 1 point up to 3 points higher cupping scores. And Alex Pond, the Director of Education for the Cup of Excellence explains in the third case study the importance of water in an education setting.

Some of the key points of the white paper include:

Calibrated water solutions for cupping at origin has largely been ignored.

Higher scoring coffees leads to higher prices for coffee farmers.

Third Wave Water calibrated water profiles can increase cupping scores up to 3 points.

Using a specific target within the current SCA water profile ranges further reduce confusion and variability within the coffee supply chain.

Read the white paper here:

https://wholesale.thirdwavewater.com/blogs/news/whitepaper

About Third Wave Water

Third Wave Water, located in Cedarville, Ohio was born in a conversation between two coffee fanatics trying to solve a long-standing coffee issue: water quality. Taylor Minor and Charles Nick launched the company at the Barista Guild of Americas event called, Bloom, in Chicago, October 26-28, 2016. Afterwards they successfully reached a mainstream audience with their appearance on ABCs Shark Tank October 8, 2017. Since then, the company has grown to reach a worldwide audience helping professionals with their water problems throughout the entire coffee industry. For more information, please visit thirdwavewater.com or visit us on Instagram, Facebook or Twitter at @thirdwavewater.

This press release was provided to Sprudge for Sprudge Press Releases. Interested in submitting a press release? Get in touch!
https://sputnikglobe.com/20230829/china-conducting-military-drills-in-yellow-south-china-seas-this-week-1112958003.html

China Conducting Military Drills in Yellow, South China Seas This Week

China Conducting Military Drills in Yellow, South China Seas This Week

The Chinese navy is holding military drills in several areas of the Yellow and South China seas from August 29-31, the Maritime Safety Administration said on Tuesday.

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military

china

yellow sea

south china sea

chinese navy

chinese ships

people's liberation army (pla) navy

military drill

naval exercise

naval drill

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The first drill took place in the Gulf of Tonkin in the South China Sea from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. local time (from 02:00 to 06:00 GMT) on Tuesday, with two others in the South China Sea scheduled to take place from 12:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. local time on August 30 and from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m on August 31, the administration stated. The drills with practical use of weapons in the Yellow Sea will take place from 12:00 p.m. August 30 to 6:00 p.m. August 31. The administration provided locations where the training will be conducted without disclosing any further details.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230720/russia-china-help-keep-the-peace-in-asia-pacific-through-joint-naval-exercise-1112008399.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20230829/expanded-brics-should-not-become-anti-west-platform-avoid-return-to-cold-war-1112955209.html

Expanded BRICS Should Not Become Anti-West Platform, Avoid Return to Cold War

Expanded BRICS Should Not Become Anti-West Platform, Avoid Return to Cold War

Despite the upcoming expansion of BRICS, the bloc should avoid strengthening the anti-US and anti-West axis to prevent more antagonistic and challenging times which would split up the world again, experts told Sputnik.

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analysis

russia

china

south africa

brics

european union (eu)

cold war

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At its summit on Thursday in Johannesburg, the BRICS group of major emerging economies - Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa - announced its membership is more than doubling. Argentina, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Saudi Arabia were invited to join the group; their membership will take effect on January 1, 2024. The Chinese expert highlighted it would be more productive, therefore, for BRICS to start engaging in talks and interaction with both the United States and the European Union to discuss how the world might be governed, taking into consideration the reality that the five members of BRICS collectively account for some 40% of the global population and more than 30% of the global economy. The same concerns were voiced by Pankaj Jha, a professor at India's Jindal Global University, who told Sputnik that New Delhi clearly believed BRICS should not be a platform for an anti-West axis. "India strongly proposed that BRICS is a collaborative, cooperative, inclusive structure which can drive the global agenda, but it should be also mandatory for the member nations to accept the agendas through discussions rather than any one country completely dominating the agenda," he said, adding there was the risk the bloc would turn into a one country driven group. Even prior to the summit it became clear not all members were fully supportive of rapid enlargement, primarily driven by China with the support of Russia and South Africa. According to Pankaj Jha, the Indian side emphasized there should be a regulatory document and a possible template for membership which should be reconsidered every five years. In turn, his Chinese colleague highlighted there was not full unity on some potential parts of the long-term strategy as well  such as reducing reliance on the US dollar in trading. Wong said it was important and timely for all members of this organization to realize the complexities of trying to develop a new BRICS currency before expending resources on such an effort. However, both experts agreed that more and more countries were dissatisfied with the existing structure of the world, as well as the global institutions that are supposed to solve disputes and differences and bring about cohesion and, therefore, have started to raise their voices in favor of a multipolar world order that is truly fair and based on international law.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230826/how-do-brics-stack-up-against-g7-1112913972.html

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230827/russias-lavrov-predicts-stronger-brics-standing-in-g20-after-expansion-1112936213.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20230829/how-us-nuclear-tests-devastated-marshall-islands--1112968890.html

How US Nuclear Tests Devastated Marshall Islands

How US Nuclear Tests Devastated Marshall Islands

On August 29, declared by the UN General Assembly as the International Day against Nuclear Tests, Sputnik looks back on the Marshall Islands which became the main testing ground for American atomic arms during the Cold War.

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analysis

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dwight d. eisenhower

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bikini atoll

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un general assembly

nuclear tests

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The Marshall Islands is a country that consists of a chain of volcanic islands and coral atolls in the central Pacific Ocean, between Hawaii and the Philippines. One of the islands of the chain, called Runit, is home to US radioactive waste.The so-called Runit Dome  a thick 115-meter wide cement structure  holds more than 90,000 cubic meters of radioactive soil and debris, a product of Washington's secretive Cold War nuclear testing program. The cement coffin exterior has been ageing and cracking, raising fears of further contamination.Between 1946 and 1958, the US detonated 67 nuclear bombs above ground and underwater off the Marshall Islands. Twenty-three of these tests were carried out at Bikini Atoll, and 44 near Enewetak Atoll. However, radioactive fallout spread throughout the island chains, forcing its population out of homes.Enewetak Atoll was affected the most by the US Cold War military programs: in addition to nuclear detonations, Washington carried out a dozen biological weapons tests here and dumped 130 tons of soil from its Nevada nuclear testing site, according to the US press.For its part, Bikini Atoll became the testing ground for the US' largest nuclear detonation ever, Castle Bravo, on March 1, 1954. As per the US media, its flash was even seen from Okinawa, 2,600 miles away. The powerful explosion was part of Operation Castle, a series of thermonuclear tests. Bravo was over 1,000 times more powerful than "Little Boy"  the bomb dropped by the US Air Force on Hiroshima civilians on August 6, 1945.Why Could the US Conduct Nuclear Tests on the Marshalls?After centuries of successive colonial rule by Spain, Germany and Japan, the UN made the Marshall Islands a "trust territory" pursuant to a Security Council Resolution of 1947, with the United States designated as the "administering authority."Under the terms of the UN Resolution 21 (1947), the US was charged with "fostering the development of political institutions, promoting economic, social and educational advancement" of the Marshall Islands. However, Washington exploited and contaminated the territory pursuing its own Cold War agenda."The US chose to test these weapons in the Pacific atolls, distributed mainly between Eniwetok and Bikini. It was a disaster for the locals, as many indigenous Marshallese suffered severe radiation burns and later blood disorders. Those tests have been associated with radiological contamination, fallout and health effects. The inhabitants and the American people were not told the truth at the time but it eventually came out," the professor continued.'Chosen Ones': How US Nuclear Tests Displaced MarshalleseIn 1946, Navy Commodore Ben Wyatt met with 167 inhabitants of Bikini Atoll and asked them to relocate. In reality, however, the residents had no choice. With an air of grim cynicism, the indigenous people were said told their atoll would be used "for the good of mankind" and that they are chosen ones.Immediately after Wyatt's announcement, the US military started preparations to relocate those living on Bikini Atoll to an uninhabited Rongerik Atoll. After enduring periods of malnutrition due to limited food supplies on Rongerik Atoll, the former residents of Bikini were relocated to Kwajalein Atoll in 1948, where they were housed in tents along the military airstrip. Later, they were moved to Kili, a small island with no lagoon, no protective reef and no fishing grounds. Some of them resettled to Bikini in 1969-1972, but had to flee the place in 1978 due to high radiation levels.Similarly, in 1948, the US government forced the population of Enewetak Atoll to evacuate as Washington was expanding its nuclear testing. However, relocation to Rongelap, Utirik, and Ailinginae Atolls, did not save the islanders from the nuclear fallout, most of which came from the powerful Castle Bravo test.Spiller's research examines transitions in American nuclear policy and strategic thought with an exclusive focus on the US president as the ultimate authority on decisions regarding nuclear weapons."Many people were displaced from their homelands due to the testing. Grave impacts to the physical health of those from the contaminated areas continue to exist across generations, including increased risk of cancer and acute radiation poisoning. There were also immediate effects at the time such as vomiting, hair loss, and skin burning," Spiller continued.Were the Marshallese's Complaints Heard?On May 6, 1954, the Marshallese people filed a petition with the United Nations Trusteeship Council complaining about the US nuclear testing:The Marshallese people said that they were "not only fearful of the danger to their persons from these deadly weapons", but "also concerned for the increasing number of people removed from their land, and requested that "all experiments with lethal weapons in this area be immediately ceased."Judging from the 1954 document, the Marshall Islands' inhabitants were desperate and did not believe that the tests by the US could be altogether stopped.In their petition, they included a provision saying that "if the experiments with said weapons should be judged absolutely necessary for the eventual well-being of all the people of this world and cannot be stopped or changed to other areas due to the unavailability of other locations," then some precautionary measures should be taken to somehow shield the remainder of their population from the further fallout. The language of the document shows how frightened and discouraged they were.Indeed, the US dangerous nuclear tests continued up until 1958, exacerbating the already acute environmental problems of the island chains.In 1969, the US kicked off a long-term project to decontaminate the Marshall Islands' atolls.Consequences of Marshall Island's Nuclear ContaminationLater, under the 1990 Compact between the US and the Marshall Islands, Washington accepted "the responsibility for compensation owing to citizens of the Marshall Islands, for loss or damage to property and person of the citizens of the Marshall Islands, resulting from the nuclear testing program which the Government of the United States conducted in the Northern Marshall Islands between June 30, 1946, and August 18, 1958," as per UN documents.According to a CRS Report, between 1954 and 2004, the United States spent over $500 million on nuclear test compensation and related assistance in the Marshall Islands.In 2012, UN Special Rapporteur Calin Georgescu found that radiation from the testing resulted in fatalities and in acute and long-term health complications. The effects of radiation have been exacerbated by "near-irreversible environmental contamination," leading to "the loss of livelihoods and lands," per the report. Furthermore, many people continue to experience indefinite displacement, the special rapporteur warned back in 2012.Citing the United States Department of Energy, the report said that "the development of thyroid disease, including thyroid cancer in the Marshall Islands, had been linked to the intake of radioactive iodine primarily as a consequence of ingesting hazardous fallout debris particles deposited on food surfaces, eating utensils, the hands and the face, and of drinking contaminated water."Has Washington Learned Its Nuclear Lesson?"I think it is a positive sign to see ongoing research and action at high levels into the humanitarian, health and environmental impacts of the historical nuclear tests. Needless to say much more needs to be done in correcting the course and alleviating suffering of those impacted. I view dialogue and attention in the right places as a step towards progress however it should be an ongoing area of priority and resource allocation from the Government as the effects of nuclear testing continue to impact the daily lives of many communities who dont possess anywhere near the same resources," she continued.So, has Washington learnt its lesson well? Unlikely, say some Sputnik interlocutors.The US is continuing to store its nuclear weapons overseas. The Biden government is pushing ahead with its nuclear-powered submarine deal with Australia in the Asia-Pacific despite regional nations ringing the alarm bells over the potential abuse of non-proliferation treaties and possible nuclear arms race.The US turned a blind eye to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's claim at the Munich Security Council on February 18, 2022, that the Kiev regime could reconsider its non-nuclear status. Likewise, the Biden administration rushed to downplay Russia's legitimate concerns about the Kiev regime's possible false flag including a radioactive "dirty bomb." The issue was smeared in the Western mainstream press as "Russian propaganda," even though Ukrainian experts openly bragged about Kiev's ability to make a "dirty bomb" and even a fully-fledged nuclear bomb quickly prior to the special military op.Likewise, the Biden administration turned a deaf ear to Russia's warnings that the Ukrainian military's shelling of the Zaporozhye Nuclear Power Plant (NPP) could lead to massive atomic fallout. When the Kiev regime damaged the upper part of the Kakhovka dam - threatening to leave the Zaporozhye NPP without cooling - Washington swiftly shifted the blame on Russia. Similarly, the US administration ignored the risks of the provision of NATO-grade munitions with depleted uranium to Ukraine, despite the gruesome records of environmental and health issues caused by the weapons.Reflecting on Washington's conduct back in June, Dr. Christopher Busby, a physical chemist and scientific secretary of the European Committee on Radiation Risk, told Sputnik that the West's gamble with nuclear power would end in nothing short of "Mad Max reality" for Europe.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230714/marshall-islands-demands-increased-us-compensation-for-nuclear-testing-legacy-1111881253.html

https://sputnikglobe.com/20221025/why-us-nuking-of-hiroshima-and-nagasaki-should-be-legally-assessed-by-intl-court-1102647785.html

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230731/us-advocates-nuclear-arms-transparency-abroad-but-limits-it-at-home-1112279505.html

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230305/what-is-non-proliferation-treaty-and-how-it-put-brakes-on-us-triggered-nuclear-adventurism-1108072917.html

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230819/us-nato-allies-risking-direct-clash-of-nuclear-powers-by-escalating-ukraine-tensions---lavrov-1112719378.html

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230607/why-aukus-nuclear-sub-deal-will-stir-up-pacific-into-ocean-of-storms-1110982350.html

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230714/scientist-ukraine-attacking-russian-nuclear-plants-is-height-of-lunacy-and-moral-irresponsibility-1111877770.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20230829/japanese-armed-forces-cannot-maintain-countrys-security---chief-of-staff-1112956478.html

Japanese Armed Forces Cannot Maintain Country's Security - Chief of Staff

Japanese Armed Forces Cannot Maintain Country's Security - Chief of Staff

MOSCOW, (Sputnik) - The Japanese Self-Defense Forces, with their current capabilities, cannot ensure the country's security in the face of regional and global... 29.08.2023, Sputnik International

2023-08-29T05:27+0000

2023-08-29T05:27+0000

2023-08-29T05:27+0000

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"We cannot maintain Japan's security with our current capabilities," Yoshida told the Nikkei Asia news portal. He noted that in order to boost the countrys armed forces, the Japanese government approved three defense documents, confirming its plans to increase military spending to 2% of GDP by 2027, among other things. In late 2022, Japan adopted three key documents on defense and security, namely the National Security Strategy, National Defense Strategy and Defense Plan. In accordance with these documents, government defense spending should be increased from 27.5 trillion yen ($187.8 billion) to 43 trillion yen over the five-year period to be in line with NATO's standard requirement to spend 2% of GDP on the military. On June 16, the Japanese parliament passed legislation on the sources of funding for increased defense spending.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230825/academic-pacific-drills-by-us-allies-seek-to-reassert-bygone-glory-days-of-cold-war-1112899580.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20230829/latvias-planned-expulsion-of-russian-nationals-grossly-contradicts-un-eu-norms-1112957222.html

Latvias Planned Expulsion of Russian Nationals Grossly Contradicts UN, EU Norms

Latvias Planned Expulsion of Russian Nationals Grossly Contradicts UN, EU Norms

As of September 1, about 6,000 Russian residents, who lived in Latvia on a residence permit and did not pass the exam in Latvian language, will be expelled from the country.

2023-08-29T07:14+0000

2023-08-29T07:14+0000

2023-09-01T12:40+0000

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The members of the Commission for International Cooperation with the Council for the Development of Civil Society and Human Rights under the Russian President have sent a letter to the United Nations (UN), the Council of Europe and the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) in connection with the threat of forced eviction of Russian-speaking residents of Latvia.One of the Commissions members is Kirill Vyshinsky, executive director of the Rossiya Segodnya International Information Agency, a parent company of the Sputnik News Agency.The Commission's message was delivered to UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk, the Council of Europe Commissioner for Human Rights Dunja Mijatovic, and OSCE High Commissioner on National Minorities Kairat Abdrakhmanov.The members of the Russian presidential human rights commission recalled that more than 6,000 such residents are threatened with expulsion from Latvia as of September 1, 2023 due to last year's changes in the countrys legislation and under the pretext that they did not pass the mandatory Latvian language exam.The Russian rights activists stressed that especially cynical in relation to these people is Latvian authorities requirement to not only pass the language exam, but also fill out questionnaires indicating their attitude to Russias foreign policy.In fact, these people are required to not only take language tests, but also reveal their political views and give documented condemnation of Russias actions, the letter points out.The letter comes after Ingmars Lidaka, head of Latvias Parliamentary Commission for Citizenship, Migration and Public Mobilization, said that between 5,000 and 6,000 Russian citizens, who have a residence permit and have not passed the Latvian language exam, will receive official notifications to leave the country within three months.He added that the decision is in line with Latvias legislation and that its implementation will be enforced by the countrys Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs.In September 2022, Latvias parliament passed a bill on the transition of all education to the Latvian language within three years, a document stipulating that the Russian can now only be studied as a "minority language".About 40 percent of Latvias 1.8 million population are Russian native speakers. The countrys state language is Latvian, while the Russian has the status of a foreign language.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20200627/free-speech-in-europe-no-longer-a-value---vyshinsky-on-unescos-reply-regarding-sputnik-estonia-1079732745.html

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Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, August 29)  The Philippines and the United Kingdom on Tuesday signed a joint statement of intent to affirm their commitment to "further elevate" defense, security, and maritime cooperation, among others.

Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo and UK Foreign Secretary James Cleverly signed the document to upgrade the UK-Philippines Enhanced Partnership, which was launched in 2021, by outlining the areas of cooperation through a policy framework.

"It seeks to build on the exchanges that the two countries have been undertaking in the defense, security, maritime, climate, economic, and people-to-people ties since we launched our partnership in 2021," Manalo said in a joint briefing.

"The United Kingdom is an important long-standing partner of the Philippines, especially in this time of geographic changes, economic disruptions, and challenges to the rule of law," he added.

Cleverly said he also visited the Philippine Coast Guard to hear about efforts to uphold the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and protect the maritime environment.

The PCG and military personnel have been at the receiving end of "dangerous maneuvers" by China in contested areas in the West Philippine Sea. In one of the latest incidents, the Chinese coast guard fired water cannon at Philippine vessels to block their resupply mission to Ayungin Shoal.

The UK has condemned Beijing's incursions in the West Philippine Sea.

Manalo said Cleverly's visit, the first British foreign minister to do so since 2016, "signals the strengthening of the bilateral ties."

The Philippine foreign affairs chief also said bilateral relations remain "strong and robust."

The UK's top diplomat said he is seeing an "exciting time" in the bilateral relationship, founded on "shared values and shared beliefs of respect on freedom, rule of law, and adherence to that rule of law."

Cleverly said trade is now at "the highest level that it has ever been."

He said the UK aspires to increase trade with Manila, citing that UK-Philippines trade in goods and services stood at around 2.4 billion or around 172 billion per year.

He also thanked over 47,000 Filipino health care workers in his country.

"The UK is building enduring partnerships and the Philippines is one of those key partners," the British foreign secretary said. "We are like-minded countries, we share many values."

"I am certain that the prosperity of the UK and the prosperity of the Philippines will be very closely interwoven for many, many years to come," he added.
https://sputnikglobe.com/20230829/neil-degrasse-tyson-rebuffs-ufo-claims-us-govt-not-competent-enough-to-keep-aliens-secret-1112954387.html

Neil DeGrasse Tyson Rebuffs UFO Claims: US Gov't Not Competent Enough to Keep Aliens Secret

Neil DeGrasse Tyson Rebuffs UFO Claims: US Gov't Not Competent Enough to Keep Aliens Secret

The "Cosmos" host explained that the government may not be able to keep aliens and other extraterrestrial information secret. But he added that he believes some of the government's budget should go towards investigating aliens.

2023-08-29T00:35+0000

2023-08-29T00:35+0000

2023-08-29T00:40+0000

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American astrophysicist, author and television host Neil deGrasse Tyson recently admitted the US government did not have the capability to successfully keep the existence of extraterrestrials secret.The established figure made the remarks after being asked by a US tabloid at California's Los Angeles International Airport whether the government needs to be more open and honest with the American public on the topic.Do you think the government is that competent, that they can actually keep such a secret? Oh, my gosh, when did you get that much confidence in the US government? Tyson said to the reporter while laughing.With cameras, and smartphones We are crowdsourcing an alien invasion of Earth. Because everybody has a camera," he added. Tyson then explained the only way the US government would know about aliens or extraterrestrials, before the rest of Earth, would be if they had a special affection for the US government and the Navy.The question about UFOs was raised during the first GOP primary debate in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, on Wednesday. Former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie was asked if, as president, he would be open with the American public about the truth regarding the governments interactions with extraterrestrials and unidentified aerial phenomena (UAPs) or UFOs.I get the UFO question? Christie joked in response to the question.The moderator, Martha MacCallum, expanded on her question by adding that more Americans are concerned about UFOs following a congressional hearing last month. During the hearing, three former military officials told Congress they believe the government knows more about UFOs and extraterrestrials, than is currently available to the public.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230817/us-congressman-hearing-on-ufos-almost-didnt-happen-due-to-pushback-from-agencies-1112691265.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20230829/putins-interviews-with-us-journalists-how-russian-leader-left-west-speechless-1112960907.html

Putin's Interviews With US Journalists: How Russian Leader Left West Speechless

Putin's Interviews With US Journalists: How Russian Leader Left West Speechless

Rossiya Segodnya media group editor-in-chief Margarita Simonyan said on Sunday that former Fox News host Tucker Carlson wants to conduct an interview with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

2023-08-29T15:51+0000

2023-08-29T15:51+0000

2023-08-30T04:12+0000

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Unlike the leaders of many other countries, Russian President Vladimir Putin often gives interviews to foreign media outlets, including those in the US. During these sit-downs, Putin has showed himself as a person capable of skillfully shielding himself from provocative questions asked by journalists.Its worth noting in this vein that US citizens have always demonstrated tremendous interest in Putin's interviews, something that is confirmed by the fact that millions of Americans watched the Russian president get interviewed on YouTube and via TV channels.Interview With CNBC's Hadley Gamble, October 2021In October 2021, the Russian president answered a number of sticky questions from CNBC host Hadley Gamble.In particular, when asked about his possible successor, the Russian head of state said that he prefers not to answer such questions because there is plenty of time before the next presidential elections in his country and that discussing this topic will destabilize the situation.Interview With NBC News' Keir Simmons, June 2021June 2021 saw the Russian presidents sit-down with NBC News correspondent Keir Simmons, who was berated by Putin for constantly interrupting him during the interview, which by the way gained at least 15 million views on YouTube.At one point, Simmons asked the interviewee to comment on US President Joe Biden once saying during a meeting with Putin that he doesnt think the Russian head of state has a soul.I still have to think about what the soul is. But I do not remember this part of our conversation, to be honest. When we meet, talk, and work [], we act in the interests of our states and our people. And this underlies all our actions, thoughts, and incentives to organize similar meetings. As for the soul, turn to the church, please, Putin said.Interview With Fox News' Chris Wallace, 2018Putins interview with Fox News journalist Chris Wallace took place on the sidelines of the Moscow-Washington summit in Helsinki in July 2018, which saw the Russian presidents meeting with then-US counterpart Donald Trump.Almost half of the interview focused on Russias alleged collusion with Trump ahead of the 2016 US presidential election.Another apparently provocative question pertained to why Putin and Trump were suspiciously polite to each other during the summit. The Russian president was at no loss for a response, saying that him and Trump talking like ultured persons to each other was only natural.Does this surprise you? Was it really worth meeting in Helsinki to scold each other with indecent words? This does not correspond to diplomatic world practice. You shouldnt meet if you insult each other and worsen relations. We met in order to find the ways to improve our relations, not destroy them completely, Putin told Wallace. Interview With NBC News' Megyn Kelly, 2017In an interview with then-NBC News anchor Megyn Kelly at the time, the Russian head of state in particular answered a question on how he feels about being at the helm of Russia for seventeen years.He also said that he hopes the fact that he has been the president of Russia for seventeen years did not greatly affect his personality.A separate part of the interview was devoted to Russias alleged interference in the 2016 US election. When asked about the issue, Putin said that there is no need to refer to anyone and blame anyone for their troubles for those who lost the election.According to him, those who insist on Moscows purported meddling are misled and do not analyze the information in full.Later on, Kelly herself shared her impressions about Putins personality in a sit-down with a US media outlet. She admitted that she tried to challenge and outwit the Russian president during the interview, which led to a couple of very dynamic, almost explosive exchanges. According to her, its impossible to outwit the Russian head of state.In a separate interview, Kelly underscored that Putin was very polite and total gentleman when she was talking to him behind the scenes, something that she said came as surprise to her. She also noted that the Russian president was very personable when the cameras were off.Interview With US Filmmaker Oliver Stone, 2017Also in 2017, US Oscar winning filmmaker Oliver Stone released the Putin Interviews, four-part documentary TV series, in which the Russian leaders, for example, touched upon relations with his dear ones.In response to an answer about whether he loves his grandchildren, the Russian leader said yes but expressed regret over failing to have much time to play with them.Separately commenting to speculation about him seeking to become a tsar, Putin stressed the [main] question is to rightfully use the power that you currently have.Interview With Bloomberg's John Micklethwait, 2016Trump-related topics were part of Putins 2016 interview with Bloomberg News Editor-in-Chief John Micklethwait, who specifically asked the Russian president Putin about which candidate he prefers in the US election at the time.A separate question was related to what was behind Putins success as the Russian president.I don't know what secrets might be in this regard. I have no secrets, I just always try to feel people's mood and their priorities, mainly focusing on this. And I think this is the most important thing in the work of any person who is engaged in the work that the people of Russia have entrusted to me, Putin said.Interview With CBS News' Charlie Rose, 2015Stones interviews were preceded by the Russian head of state sitting down with then-CBS co-anchor Charlie Rose who, in particular, asked Putin to give his thoughts on how long he intends to be at the helm of Russia.But I am not sure that I should fully exercise these constitutional rights. This will already depend on the specific situation in the country, in the world and on my own mood, according to Putin.Asked about what kind of legacy he wants to leave behind, the Russian leader underlined that his country must be efficient and competitive, and that it should have a stable economy, with a developed social and political system, flexible to changes in Russia and beyond.Interview With CNN's Larry King, 2010In December 2010, CNNs legendary host interviewed Putin  who served as the Russian prime minister at the time - before the closure of the Larry King Live talk show. In other words, Putin became the last foreign senior official who sat down with King.In the interview, which was Putins second such sit-down with the CNN anchor since 2000, King at one point told the-then Russian prime minister that he knows about the interviewees efforts to improve his knowledge of the English language.When asked whether he is ready to speak to the public in English, Putin said that his command of the language is very bad, adding that his tutor helps him learn and sing various English ditties.Separately, King referred to Putins participation in the St. Petersburg on saving the tigers, asking him why he is so interested in these animals.Not only in tigers. I just love nature. And there are many such people on the planet, thank God. I'm just one of them, Putin emphasized.

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20230829/rough-country-ukraines-burisma-courted-hunter-biden-for-protection-amid-oligarch-feuds-1112973294.html

'Rough Country': Ukraine's Burisma Courted Hunter Biden for 'Protection' Amid Oligarch Feuds

'Rough Country': Ukraine's Burisma Courted Hunter Biden for 'Protection' Amid Oligarch Feuds

The story of why Hunter Biden was on the board of Ukrainian gas company Burisma after the US-backed coup in 2014 shouldnt surprise anyone familiar with the dynamics of business in post-Soviet Eastern Europe.

2023-08-29T21:25+0000

2023-08-29T21:25+0000

2023-09-20T13:28+0000

analysis

viktor shokin

hunter biden

fox news

joe biden

burisma

corruption

ukraine

hunter biden charges

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Recently, Fox News interviewed Viktor Shokin, the former Ukrainian prosecutor general, and asked about the circumstances of his removal from office in 2016."[Poroshenko] understood, and so did Vice President Biden, that had I continued to oversee the Burisma investigation, we would have found the facts about the corrupt activities that they were engaging in. That included both Hunter Biden and Devon Archer and others, he continued.The White House subsequently dismissed Shokin's allegations as "lies" and "debunked" falsehoods, criticizing Fox for airing the interview at all.Ironically, US President Joe Biden has confirmed Shokins story. At an event hosted by the Council on Foreign Relations think tank in January 2018, Biden boasted about getting Shokin fired by threatening to withhold a $1 billion loan to Kiev.Nebojsa Malic, a Serbian-American journalist, blogger and translator and senior writer at RT, told Radio Sputnik on Monday that Ukraine has been wracked by corruption since it became an independent nation in 1991, amid the dissolution of the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics (USSR), and that Burismas recruitment of Hunter Biden, Joe Bidens son, to its board of directors in 2014 was characteristic of the way companies have sought out powerful political patrons in such an environment.Here's a blatant example, like a confession, so to speak, of essentially withholding aid. These were loan guarantees from the IMF, but in practical terms, this was money from the US taxpayers, in exchange for a political move, Malic said of Joe Bidens 2018 admission.And his business partner, Devon Archer, has testified to that effect as well: he literally said they contacted us that they needed some cover. Im not sure he said cover, he said something about doing some work in DC to handle the pressure. The exact phrasing doesn't really even matter, it's for the lawyers to deal with. But the issue is that Archer was very forthright, that, you know, the reason Burisma hired Biden is to protect itself from investigations. And Shokin was sniffing around because these guys were owned by a notoriously corrupt oligarch working in a notoriously corrupt country that was even more notoriously corrupt after the coup that the US sponsored in 2014 and put in a new government, thanks to Victoria Nuland, and Biden was invited to midwife this thing, in her immortal words. So the notion that there was no corruption and Burisma was clean and that Hunter Biden had nothing to do with anything and he was just a good boy who was on some drugs and got involved with some shady people but knew nothing and did nothing is just ludicrous.Back in 2015, when Ukraine signed the second Minsk agreement after failing to crush Donbass by force again, he said that Ukraine should do the same thing as Croatia 20 years prior: arm itself, get instruction from Americans, and then when the time is right and with American blessing, destroy the separatists in a week. He was referring to the biggest act of ethnic cleansing in the Balkans in the 1990s, which was the expulsion of Serbs from Croatia.And sure enough, this guy got replaced by another prosecutor who himself got replaced by another prosecutor. And that particular prosecutor's office is essentially being used to go after Zelensky's political opponents now, so I guess it's going to be considered turbo solid in Washington, Malic said.'A Corrupt Oligarchy' Since 1991The journalist explained that due to pro-Western policies that saw Soviet state property sold off for pennies in the aftermath of the 1991 dissolution of the Soviet Union, Ukraine suffered an enormous population loss amid the resulting socioeconomic catastrophe.You name it - it's collapsed, Malic quipped.He noted that while in Russia, President Vladimir Putin had reined in the power of the oligarchs, much to the chagrin of the West, in Ukraine, nobody ever purged the oligarchs. They ruled their regions as sort of feudal kingdoms and they came together in support of this post-coup government, with each looking for their own interests. You had these oligarchs bankrolling the neo-Nazi volunteer battalions - the notorious Azov* and even more notorious Aidar** - which were essentially private militias set up by an oligarch who ended up clashing with Poroshenko and being declared persona non grata and fleeing to Israel, where he had citizenship. You had various oligarchs doing oil and gas deals with various American companies, and Burisma was one of them, Malic explained."After 2004, from what I was told by people who live there, things took a turn for the worse. For one brief period under a previous government, they had an experiment in flat taxation and corruption actually subsided because there wasn't enough of a gray area for people to manipulate things. And you had a booming software industry and you had all these video games coming out of Ukraine, and it seemed like they were on the upward swing," Malic said."And then in 2004, this coalition of oligarchs comes in and - you know, [Viktor] Yushchenko, [Yulia] Tymoshenko and that crew, and they fell out between themselves over oil and gas, and Tymoshenko herself has been convicted of corruption, although, you know, you never know in Ukrainian courts whether that was legitimate or a political conviction. And that in itself is telling. But that crew just brought the country down into ruin again. And four years later, they get voted out in favor of Yanukovich, the same guy that they forcibly removed in 2014."It's a divided country regionally, and it to some extent even ethnically and linguistically, and a lot of its politics was basically a tug-of-war between regional oligarchs, and the US would every so often go in and put its foot on the scale in favor of certain ones that were loyal to US policies," he noted.Would-Be Oligarch Buster to Washington ToolAnd then he gets laundered through this show and he gets elected on a peace platform and purging the oligarchs. And, you know, within six months when he goes to the front line, to, talk down these militants into obeying his orders, and he starts yelling, I am the president - which, if you have to say you're the president, you're not - and they were basically saying [in response]: if you don't do as we tell you, well kill you. And there is this miraculous transformation of Volodymyr Zelensky from peacemaker into another tool of the Washington Establishment practically overnight.And so the fact that the first thing that Burisma does after the coup, essentially, is call the son of the sitting US vice president, who's in charge of Ukraine policy - I mean, why would they do this? Hunter Biden had literally just been discharged from the Navy for drug use. He had no useful life skills, he had no connections himself aside from his father. There's literally no other explanation than to get political cover and therefore immunize yourself from investigations of corruption. This is what people do in Eastern Europe: they find a powerful patron. If the local oligarch isn't powerful enough, you seek a foreign sponsor, be that the German embassy, the British Embassy or the Americans.*Aidar battalion is an extremist organization banned in Russia.**Azov battalion is a terrorist organization banned in Russia.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230822/attorneys-allegedly-threatened-to-put-biden-on-witness-stand-if-hunter-was-charged-1112774995.html

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230829/ukraine-wants-to-believe-west-supports-destruction-of-everything-russian---kremlin-1112962521.html

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230828/why-has-ukraines-zelensky-agreed-to-hold-elections-in-2024-1112949130.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20230829/russia-voices-position-on-ukraine-and-foreign-affairs-ahead-of-un-general-assembly--1112966991.html

Russia Voices Position on Ukraine and Foreign Affairs Ahead of UN General Assembly

Russia Voices Position on Ukraine and Foreign Affairs Ahead of UN General Assembly

Ukraine is continuing strikes on Russian territory, claiming it has the blessing of some of its Western allies. In its position released ahead of the September UN General Assembly, Russia warned the collective West against the escalation and perpetuation of the conflict.

2023-08-29T14:58+0000

2023-08-29T14:58+0000

2023-08-29T14:58+0000

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ukraine

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Representatives of the Kiev regime are trying to drag the countries of the West into the Ukraine conflict as deeply as possible, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said on Tuesday.The Kremlin's comments came in response to the claims by Mikhail Podolyak, an adviser to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, that some of Ukraine's allies have given a nod to Kiev's strikes on Russian assets in Crimea and territories which joined Russia in 2022.Earlier this month, Moscow warned the countries of the West against engaging deeper into the ongoing Ukraine conflict in its position published on the Russian Foreign Ministry's website on August 9, ahead of the 78th session of the UN General Assembly scheduled for September 19.Russia has made it clear that the special military operation was launched in response to Ukraine's eight-year-long war against the people of the Donetsk and the Lugansk People's Republics. The Kiev regime's attacks against civilians as well as the intentional sabotage of the package of measures for the implementation of the Minsk Agreements by Ukraine forced Russia to take measures to protect the region's people.The special military operation that kicked off on February 24, 2022, is "conducted in strict compliance with Article 51 of the UN Charter" and "will continue till the threats to Russia's security are eliminated," the Russian position says.Per Moscow, the violations of international humanitarian law and terrorist attacks carried out by Ukraine "are carefully recorded, and all the perpetrators will face their punishment."The Russian Foreign Ministry has drawn attention to the fact that "Kiev's actions and rhetoric show that it clearly lacks interest in settling the conflict by peaceful means."The people of the Donbass, Zaporozhye and Kherson regions became part of Russia after their civilians freely expressed their will during the September 2022 referendums, "in accordance with the UN Charter and the 1970 Declaration on Principles of International Law concerning Friendly Relations and Cooperation among states."Moscow highlighted that the aforementioned document guarantees the territorial integrity of states, with "government representing the whole people belonging to the territory without distinction as to race, creed or color". However, the Kiev regime obviously fails to meet this criterion, given its record of having persecuted a considerable part of the country's population precisely on the grounds of ethnic origin, creed, language and culture for years, the ministry underscores.The recognition of the 2022 referendums as well as the Crimean plebiscite of 2014 is a "key precondition" for reaching an agreement on a comprehensive settlement of the situation in Ukraine, according to the Russian government.Moscow "categorically" opposes the revision of the outcomes of the Second World War and attaches special importance to the annual draft resolution of the UN General Assembly "Combating glorification of Nazism, neo-Nazism and other practices that contribute to fuelling contemporary forms of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance".The relevance of this document has taken on a new significance in view of the tragic consequences of the Kiev authorities' efforts to encourage the neoNazi ideology in Ukraine with the connivance of their Western patrons.UN Playing Central Role in Global AffairsThe position, voiced by Russia on August 9 further indicates that the nation views the United Nations and its General Assembly as an international body playing the central and coordinating role in global affairs on the path to the transition to the multipolar system of international relations.Moreover, Russia has been consistently advocating the strengthening of the multilateral framework of international relations and world economy based on the universal norms of international law, first and foremost the provisions of the UN Charter, with the focus on the unconditional respect for the sovereign equality of states and non-interference in their internal affairs.At the same time, Russia highlights the need to carry out reforms aimed at the expansion of the UN Security Council to strengthen the representation of developing states from Africa, Asia and Latin America in the body without prejudice to the UNSC's effectiveness and operational efficiency.Moscow also encourages the UN's cooperation with regional and sub-regional organizations including the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO), Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS), BRICS and Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU). "The relevance of this topic was confirmed by the adoption of the biennial resolutions on the UNCSTO and UNCIS cooperation by the 77th UNGA session, which reflects steady progress and positive dynamics in strengthening these relations," the Russian position reads.Russia's clear and logical position concerning the Ukraine conflict and international affairs apparently irritates some forces in the West given that the Russian delegation has yet to get US visas to participate in the forthcoming UN General Assembly gathering.Russian Delegation Faces US Visa Delays, AgainThe Russian delegation has requested American visas to participate in the 78th session of the UN General Assembly, which will begin on September 19,. However, the answer has not yet been received, Grigory Karasin, head of the international committee of the Federation Council, told Sputnik on August 22.Earlier this year, in April, Washington also initially snubbed Moscow's request for participation in the UN Security Council events and delayed the issuance of visas. Eventually, the US denied visas to Russian journalists who were supposed to accompany Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov during his trip to New York for the UN Security Council.Nonetheless, Russia is continuing to firmly manifest its position and stand by its principles despite the collective West's attempts to throw sand in its gears.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230829/ukraine-wants-to-believe-west-supports-destruction-of-everything-russian---kremlin-1112962521.html

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230825/ukraine-uses-terror-tactics-against-own-troops-as-army-runs-out-of-motivated-fighters-1112896298.html

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230713/blood-on-the-walls-inside-ukraines-torture-chambers-1111796712.html

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230607/neo-nazi-symbols-on-ukrainian-troops-cannot-be-divorced-from-their-origin-1110985378.html

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230825/pepe-escobar-brics-11---strategic-tour-de-force-1112882830.html

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230425/lavrov-admits-it-would-be-good-if-un-relocated-from-new-york-amid-visa-snag-1109808662.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20230829/russian-air-defense-destroys-2-ukrainian-drones-over-tula-region-1112956111.html

Russian Air Defense Destroys 2 Ukrainian Drones Over Tula Region

Russian Air Defense Destroys 2 Ukrainian Drones Over Tula Region

The Russian air defense systems shot down two Ukrainian drones over Russias Tula Region, the Russian Defense Ministry said on Tuesday.

2023-08-29T04:54+0000

2023-08-29T04:54+0000

2023-08-29T04:54+0000

russia

russian defense ministry

ukraine

drones

drone strike

ukrainian drone attacks on russia

russia

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"This morning, an attempt by the Kiev regime to carry out a terrorist attack on objects on the territory of the Russian Federation using two aircraft-type drones was thwarted. The unmanned aerial vehicles were destroyed by air defense forces on duty over the territory of Tula Region," the ministry said.The foiled attack comes on the heels of multiple thwarted efforts by the Ukrainian regime. Since hostilities kicked off between Ukraine and Russia, the Kiev regime has continued to conduct multiple strikes near civilian populations.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230828/dangerous-improvisation-of-ukrainian-troops-with-cluster-shells---reports-1112941889.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20230829/russian-fighter-jet-downs-ukrainian-drone-over-black-sea-1112961506.html

Russian Fighter Jet Downs Ukrainian Drone Over Black Sea

Russian Fighter Jet Downs Ukrainian Drone Over Black Sea

A Russian fighter jet has destroyed a Ukrainian drone over the Black Sea that tried to attack objects on the Russian territory, the Russian Defense Ministry said on Tuesday.

2023-08-29T11:24+0000

2023-08-29T11:24+0000

2023-08-29T11:24+0000

russia's special operation in ukraine

drone warfare

drone

russian fighter jet

russia

russian defense ministry

black sea

ukraine

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terrorist attack

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"Today, at about 12:00 Moscow time [09:00 GMT], an attempt by the Kiev regime to carry out a terrorist attack by one aircraft-type UAV on objects in Russia was thwarted. An unmanned aerial vehicle was destroyed by a naval aviation aircraft over the Black Sea," the ministry stated.With the much-touted Ukrainian counteroffensive proving to be largely unsuccessful, the Kiev regime increasingly employs the terrorist strategy of intimidation of the population by attacking peaceful cities with no other purpose than killing civilians and ruining the lives of innocent people.The terrorist regime of Kiev committed two attacks on the Crimean Bridge, which is an entirely civilian infrastructure, murdering five people in total and injuring a child. Moreover, several Ukrainian officials admitted that Kiev is responsible for the attacks.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230709/ukraines-defense-ministry-admits-it-attacked-crimean-bridge-to-break-russias-logistics-1111760144.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20230829/trump-mugshot-goes-viral-shokin-makes-new-claims-against-biden-family-1112959185.html

Trump Mugshot Goes Viral, Shokin Makes New Claims Against Biden Family

Trump Mugshot Goes Viral, Shokin Makes New Claims Against Biden Family

On this episode of Fault Lines, host Melik Abdul discussed a number of topics from around the globe, including Donald Trumps record breaking fundraiser that proceeded after his mugshot.

2023-08-29T04:35+0000

2023-08-29T04:35+0000

2023-08-29T14:52+0000

fault lines

radio

donald trump

joe biden

donetsk

ukraine

viktor shokin

hunter biden

niger

west africa

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Trump Mugshot Goes Viral, Shokin Makes New Claims Against Biden Family On this episode of Fault Lines, host Melik Abdul discussed a number of topics from around the globe, including Donald Trumps record breaking fundraiser that proceeded after his mugshot.

Mark Sleboda: International Relations and Security AnalystAngie Wong: Journalist and Political CommentatorAmeshia Cross: Writer and Democratic StrategistThabiso Lehoko: Sputnik Correspondent in South AfricaNebojsa Malic: Serbian-American JournalistIn the first hour, Fault Lines discussed the death of Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin with international relations and security analyst Mark Sleboda. Later in the first hour, they discussed the advances of the Russian military in the Donetsk Republic and the Ukrainian claims that they seized a key town in the Donbass.In the second hour, Fault Lines host spoke with journalist Angie Wong about Donald Trumps mugshot going viral as the former president raised $7.1 million while Ron DeSantis heads back to Florida as a major storm heads toward Florida.Later in the second hour, Fault Lines spoke with writer Ameshia Cross about an article she wrote regarding the Fulton County jail as Trumps indictment brings to light the horrid conditions inmates face in the county jail.In the third hour, Fault Lines was joined by Sputnik correspondent Thabiso Lehoko to talk about Niger's military leadership ordering the French, US, Nigerian and German ambassadors to leave their country and the reason for the expulsion of the foreign diplomats.Later in the last hour, Fault Lines spoke with journalist Nebojsa Malic about the former Ukrainian prosecutor Viktor Shokin and his new allegations against the Biden family as he was ousted in 2016 because of an investigation against the Ukrainian natural gas company where Hunter Biden served on the board.The views and opinions expressed in this program are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the position of Sputnik.We'd love to get your feedback at radio@sputniknews.comCatch us at 105.5FM, 104.7FM, 102.9FM, 1390AM, 1140AM

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fault lines, advances of the russian military, donald trumps mugshot, the fulton county jail, niger's military leadership, shokin's allegations against the biden family
https://sputnikglobe.com/20230829/trumps-growing-list-of-charges-mitt-romney-cheers-ukrainian-disaster-us-may-attack-mexico-1112954532.html

Trump's Growing List of Charges; Mitt Romney Cheers Ukrainian Disaster; US May Attack Mexico?

Trump's Growing List of Charges; Mitt Romney Cheers Ukrainian Disaster; US May Attack Mexico?

The list of charges against former President Donald Trump continues to grow as Georgia joins New York and Washington DC in the list of jurisdictions that seek to disqualify him from the 2024 election.

2023-08-29T04:15+0000

2023-08-29T04:15+0000

2023-09-18T13:34+0000

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Trump's Growing List of Charges; Mitt Romney Cheers Ukrainian Disaster; US May Attack Mexico? The list of charges against former President Donald Trump continues to grow as Georgia joins New York and Washington DC in the list of jurisdictions that seek to disqualify him from the 2024 election.

Marjorie Cohn, Professor Emerita at Thomas Jefferson School of Law in San Diego, joins us to discuss the charges against former President Donald Trump. The president is facing more charges related to the 2020 election. Professor Cohn argues that President Trump is facing numerous charges, and it will be difficult for him to get the trial completed by next March.Dr. Gerald Horne, Professor of History at the University of Houston, TX, author, historian, and researcher, joins us to discuss foreign policy. The people of the Sahel are seeking to escape the neocolonial structures that leave them struggling with economic subservience and theft of resources. Dr. Horne says that a former NAACP official was instrumental in overthrowing one of Africa's important leaders, and he reviewed a number of other African leaders that were overthrown and/or assassinated either directly by or with the help of US imperialism. He then says that these moves created political vacuums that were more often than not filled by military powers. Also, he says that France is looking for an excuse to attack Niger and that Washington is pressuring the President of Nigeria based on his history of drug dealing in the United States. Dr. Horne also argues that US price caps on Russian oil motivated energy-producing nations to move towards the Eurasian political coalition.Mark Sleboda, Moscow-based international relations security analyst, joins us to discuss Ukraine. Ukraine has claimed they have "liberated" the village of Rabotino in Ukraine. Also, Norway slaughtered many reindeer because they crossed over into Russia. Mark Sleboda says that reports indicate there is still fighting in the town and around the area. He says that there are large amounts of manpower and equipment in the locality and that the fighting is happening on an epic scale. The town itself is significant in that it is a small town with only six streets, but the Ukrainian soldiers have fought to pry it from Russian hands for three months. Mark said that 40 reindeer unfortunately stuck to their normal migratory patterns and were slaughtered due to Norway's fear that they may wander back into Russia.Dr. David Oualaalou, international geopolitical consultant, veteran, and author of many books, including "The Dynamics of Russia's Geopolitics: Remaking the Global Order," international security analyst, and host of the "Geopolitics in Conflict" Show on YT, joins us to discuss Asia. The Revolution Reports says that North Korean nuclear weapons are used for defense persons, and the US weapons are the actual threat to humanity. Dr. Oualaalou says that North Korea developed atomic missile technology because of the threat from the US. He says that the US moving nuclear submarines to South Korea and selling nuclear submarines to Australia forces North Korea to be alarmed. He says that North Korea can't trust the US due to history. Also, Donald Trump understood that US troops were in the range of North Korean missiles, and this prevented the US from attacking the nation, so he pushed for a deal with its leader. Dr Oulaalou says the US has a one-China policy but does not adhere to it.Laith Marouf, broadcaster, and journalist based in Beirut, Lebanon, joins us to discuss the Middle East. Israeli army soldiers are struggling to defend their armored vehicles from resistance fighters' recent advances in the use of improvised explosive devices. Laith Marouf says that resistance in the West Bank has upped their game, and Israel has resorted to destroying entire roads and is blaming the recent issues on Iran. He believes that the devices are manufactured locally. He also says that the democratization of military technology means that the clock is ticking on imperialism and the vassals of the US empire. Also, the Libyan and Israeli foreign ministers meeting has been revealed by Israeli media. Laith says this is significant because Libya was destroyed, and now the people of Libya are rebelling against their government.Jon Jeter, journalist and author, joins us to discuss Latin America. A number of GOP leaders are pushing for a military attack on Mexico using the excuse of preventing drug cartels from selling their illicit products in the United States. Also, the US is pushing for new elections in Venezuela and teasing sanctions relief for the process. Jon Jeter argues that our political class offers the same solutions of violence and militarism for all problems. This is clearly theatrics for Governor DeSantis. Also, Mexico's nationalization of lithium and other natural resources is likely why US politicians are looking to attack our Southern neighbor. Jon further said that the US objective in Mexico is expected to be repeated in Venezuela as the neocons push for an election that they can influence so that they can access its natural resources. He also says that Venezuela has one of the most robust democracies in the world.Darryl Jones, attorney and voting rights activist, joins us to discuss domestic politics. The ideological flip in the Wisconsin Supreme Court is viewed as a seismic shift for liberal activists. Also, there has been a racially motivated mass shooting in Florida as the nation celebrates Dr. Martin Luther King. Daryl Jones says that the change reflects an overall shift in the state. He thinks that the abortion issue is driving voters to the polls and will prove difficult for Republicans to overcome. Daryl says that the Supreme Court justices who ended Roe V Wade were not selected by presidents who won the popular vote, which shows that it does not align with the majority views of the people. Daryl says that the shooter was planning on killing young Black students at an HBCU, but police officers at the University prevented the tragedy.Misty Winston, radio host and political commentator, joins us to discuss propaganda. Caitlin Johnstone's new article argues that the rich and powerful pour a fortune into the international propaganda machine. Misty says that our political environment has been so manipulated that we cannot escape the debate parameters set by the empire. She says that the people who control the debate are violent extremists. She also says there is an inability for creative thinking outside of the media because the public is trained to stop thinking critically. She says that we are using the bodies of Ukrainian soldiers as cannon fodder and that the same "vile creatures" continue to line their pockets while they push the war.The views and opinions expressed in this program are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the position of Sputnik.We'd love to get your feedback at radio@sputniknews.comCatch us at 105.5FM, 104.7FM, 102.9FM, 1390AM, 1140AM

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20230829/uk-foreign-secretary-to-visit-china-on-august-30---chinese-foreign-ministry-1112958185.html

UK Foreign Secretary to Visit China on August 30 - Chinese Foreign Ministry

UK Foreign Secretary to Visit China on August 30 - Chinese Foreign Ministry

UK Foreign Secretary James Cleverley will pay an official visit to China on August 30 at the invitation of the Chinese government, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin said on Tuesday.

2023-08-29T08:18+0000

2023-08-29T08:18+0000

2023-08-29T10:44+0000

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"At the invitation of the member of the Politburo of the Central Committee of the Chinese Communist Party, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, the UK foreign secretary will pay an official visit to China on August 30," Wang told a briefing. The spokesman also noted that China and the UK as permanent members of the United Nations Security Council have a "common responsibility to promote peace, stability and development throughout the world." In June, an American newspaper reported that the top UK diplomat might visit China for the first time in over five years. One of the senior officials later said that the UK Foreign Ministry was considering holding a meeting at the end of July. While Cleverley personally confirmed the plans, he later postponed his trip to Beijing. The delay reportedly happened due to the resignation of then-Chinese Foreign Minister Qin Gang. On July 25, Wang Yi succeeded Qin as the top Chinese diplomat.Moreover, the top UK diplomat is expected to visit the Philippines to meet with the country's top officials and discuss strengthening partnership between the two nations, the UK government stated.Cleverly will travel to Manila to meet with the Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos and Foreign Minister Enrique Manalo. The top UK diplomat is also expected to visit the country's coast guard where he will discuss cooperation on maritime safety, environmental protection and countering terrorism.The UK-Philippines enhanced partnership was launched in 2021. It provides for strengthening ties in key areas such as climate and environment, trade, maritime security and foreign policy. During Cleverly's visit to Manila, the countries are expected to sign a statement of intent on enhancing bilateral relations.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230201/beijing-says-aukus-fuels-arms-race-in-asia-pacific-undermines-nuclear-non-proliferation-1106883565.html

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230501/new-us-bases-in-philippines-may-set-asia-pacific-on-fire-1109989761.html

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230223/china-concerned-over-us-getting-access-to-4-more-military-bases-in-philippines-1107747365.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20230829/us-double-standards-exposed-over-north-koreas-nuclear-deterrent-1112963938.html

US Double Standards Exposed Over North Korea's Nuclear Deterrent

US Double Standards Exposed Over North Korea's Nuclear Deterrent

The US Navy kicked off provocative military drills off the Korean Peninsula this week. Dr David Oualaalou said that Washington had broken too many treaty promises in the past for Pyongyang to trust it in nuclear disarmament talks.

2023-08-29T16:28+0000

2023-08-29T16:28+0000

2023-09-18T13:37+0000

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Washington's objections to North Korea's nuclear deterrent are hypocritical, says a leading geopolitical analyst.The US launched seaborne military exercises with Japan and South Korea on Tuesday off Jeju island in the East China Sea  the second set of joint manoeuvres in the Pacific region this month.The southern Republic of Korea Navy claimed in a statement that the latest provocative manoeuvres were intended to "strengthen the response posture and capabilities against North Koreas escalating nuclear and missile threats."The northern Democratic People's Republic of Korea has made a series of advances in nuclear, missile and peaceful satellite technology over the past 15 years after the US refused to honour an agreement to build a light-water atomic power plant in the east Asian country  while continuing large-scale military exercises near the 1953 armistice line twice a year.Washington still refuses to condemn nuclear proliferation by its allies Pakistan and Israel.Dr David Oualaalou told Sputnik that North Korea had been forced to develop its own nuclear deterrent "because there was always that threat to them" from the the US, the only country to ever use atomic weapons on another country.He said the current geopolitical dynamics only confirmed that decision, in light of the new AUKUS alliance which will see the US and UK provide cruise missile-armed nuclear submarines to Australia."Then you look at also with the agreement we made with South Korea that we're going to move some nuclear submarines there," the international expert pointed out. "Then you have now the alliance that's just been declared recently between the US, Japan and South Korea. Then you have now Indonesia purchasing F-15s from the US. Then you have the Philippines: we are declaring publicly our support for Philippines. "In light of North Korea's growing deterrent ability, the US is once again offering peace talks "without preconditions" as it did in the 1990s and 2017, the commentator noted.But he said Pyongyang was unlikely to trust Washington again after so many promises broken by previous US administrations.When former US president Donald Trump launched his detente with Pyongyang, he attacked the practice begun by previous administrations of flying nuclear-capable strategic bombers up to the heavily-militarized 'Demilitarized Zone' separating north and south Korea before turning away at the last minute."He understood back then and still understands it  and many others  that the US troops are within range of North Korea's missiles," Oualaalou said. "This is one of the reasons why we never attempted to conduct any, for example, military special operations in North Korea or any of those kind of sorts of activities, because we know North Korea does not bluff."For more cutting-edge analysis of current affairs, tune in to our Sputnik Radio show The Critical Hour.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230829/kim-jong-un-says-n-korean-navy-to-become-part-of-nuclear-deterrence-force---state-media-1112956348.html

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Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, August 29)  The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Tuesday filed a complaint for alarms and scandals against Wilfredo Gonzales, the former policeman in the viral road rage incident in Quezon City.

PNP spokesperson Col. Jean Fajardo confirmed this in a public briefing, adding that they are urging the victim to file a separate case of greater gravity  such as for grave threat.

Hindi lamang po ito ang isasampa nating kaso, she said. Yung iniintay lamang natin, sa tulong na rin po ng kanyang abogado, na mag-execute po ng complaint ito pong kanyang biktima para makasuhan din po natin siya ng additional case ng grave threat and other appropriate criminal offense.

[Translation: This is not the only case were filing. Were also waiting for the victim, with the help of his lawyer, to execute a complaint so we can also file an additional case for grave threat and other appropriate criminal offense.]

Gonzales was filmed hitting a cyclist on the head and drawing a handgun after the latter bumped his car on Aug. 8.

Fajardo said the PNP is ready to provide security to the victim if he requests for it.

According to lawyer and cyclist Raymond Fortun, the victim no longer wants to sue the former cop as he fears for his safety and that of his family.

Meanwhile, Quezon City Police District Director PBGen. Nicolas Torre III urged any other possible witness to work with the police to help bolster the case against Gonzales.

"Kailangan namin ang mas malakas na ebidensya [We need stronger evidence]," Torre said. "Please come forward. Help us, because hindi ito kaya ng pulis lang talaga [the police cant do this alone]."

In a separate briefing, Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla said even the local government may file a case against Gonzales since alarms and scandals is a public crime.

Kahit hindi pumutok ang baril, kinasa yung baril, tinutok yung baril. Kahit hindi magreklamo yung siklista, people who are alarmed over the occurrence can actually file cases, Remulla said.

[Translation: Even if the gun wasnt fired, (if) it was cocked and pointed at someone, people who are alarmed over the occurrence can actually file cases even if the cyclist wont.]

Even the local government (can file a case), he added. I know the Quezon City local government is very, very interested in filing a case. So, we'll wait for Mayor Joy Belmonte to probably initiate something.

Past sanctions

The incident earlier this month was not the first time Gonzales was caught and reprimanded for misconduct.

Fajardo said Gonzales has twice been ordered dismissed by the PNP when he was in service  although the first one was eventually downgraded to a demotion.

Noong July 2016 nag mandatory retirement itoSubalit the following year, 2017, may lumabas na dismissal order sa kanya, result po ng isang kaso na nasampa noong 2006 for grave misconduct, Fajardo said.

[Translation: His mandatory retirement was in July 2016However, the following year, a dismissal order against him was issued, stemming from a case filed against him in 2006 for grave misconduct.]

Gonzales filed a motion for reconsideration in 2018 but it was denied, which meant his retirement benefits were withdrawn. His rank was Police Officer 1 when he was dismissed.

Before that, the PNP said he was also ordered dismissed in 2006 for grave misconduct, simple misconduct, and conduct unbecoming of a police officer.

He was able to return to service after he challenged the decision before the National Police Commission, which partially granted his appeal in 2012, as it toned town the sanction to a mere one-rank demotion.

After the video of his road rage went viral, the PNP confiscated four guns from Gonzales and revoked his license to own firearms, Fajardo said.

The Land Transportation Office also temporarily suspended his driver's license pending investigation into the incident.

CNN Philippines' Gerg Cahiles contributed to this report.
https://sputnikglobe.com/20230829/us-national-archives-has-5400-bidens-emails-to-hunter-signed-by-fake-name-1112967976.html

US National Archives Has 5,400 Biden's Emails to Hunter, Signed by Fake Name

US National Archives Has 5,400 Biden's Emails to Hunter, Signed by Fake Name

The US National Archives has approximately 5,400 emails and records linked to a pseudonym allegedly used by US President Joe Biden to discuss foreign business with his son Hunter Biden, US House Oversight Committee Chairman James Comer said on Tuesday.

2023-08-29T16:16+0000

2023-08-29T16:16+0000

2023-09-29T17:52+0000

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The National Archives has ADMITTED to possessing 5,400 emails and records connected to then-VP Bidens Robert L. Peters email account, Comer wrote on social media. Earlier this month, the US House Oversight Committee requested information from the National Archives on the Robert Peters email address, which Biden allegedly used as a pseudonymous means of communication. The panel has requested unredacted documents from the National Archives due to a belief that redactions could cover up the names of people copied on emails sent by the account, particularly on those pertaining to Ukrainian policy, the official noted on Monday in an interview with an American news agency. The House lawmakers are investigating alleged criminal activity by the Biden family, including foreign bribery and influence peddling involving Ukrainian energy company Burisma. The probe could be impacted by a US government shutdown, which would occur if Congress fails to fund the government beyond the end of next month, Comer said. However, the chairman added that he is optimistic that the government will avoid a shutdown.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230826/ex-ukrainian-prosecutor-sacked-for-sniffing-out-biden-corruption-breaks-silence-1112912983.html

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Want to get started working with horses but dont know how? The Ontario Equine Education and Employment Program (OEEEP) is here for you! This is a free program which provides education, job search and preparation support, and exposure to industry professionals.

Cheena, an enthusiastic participant, who found out about this opportunity through a YWCA flyer, describes her experience as a lifestyle change. She explains that the OEEEP program provided her with the best combination of academic knowledge and on-the-job placement that is an absolute essential to starting out in the equine industry.

Cheena appreciated the support and guidance from the entire OEEEP team from the start of the program to completion. The process begins with reflecting on the purpose of a participants equine journey, with online help to refresh soft skills through training and discussion. In the end, all participants are aided in finding a suitable placement or workplace according to everyones skills and interests. The OEEEP team keeps in regular contact with all participants to discuss progress, offer advice, advise regarding suitable career paths in the future and in coordinating other placement opportunities.

Cheena works at a rehabilitation facility for retired racehorses and looks forward to the daily care of her horses, keeping them healthy and providing them with as much nurturing as needed to help them prepare for their next role. She hopes to enroll in additional equine courses to gain more experience with a goal of becoming a facilitator once she gains more experience.

The Ontario Equine Education and Employment Program is for everyone who is interested in working with horses or looking for a career change. Register now to gain the necessary skills and knowledge to work in the industry. With convenient online learning, job search support and opportunities to learn directly from industry professionals, OEEEP is an excellent choice for anyone interested in the equine industry.

Upcoming information sessions will be hosted virtually on Aug. 29, Sept. 6 and Sept. 12.

To apply for the program, register before Sept. 11 at vpi-inc.com/equine/. Space is limited.

Covered In Virtual/Live Class Meetings:

The Horse Anatomy, Physiology, Gaits and Behaviour

Basic Handling and Safety Skills and Daily Management

Horse Health and Disease Prevention

Nutrition and Facility Management

An introduction to the Ontario horse industry and employment

Eligibility And Suitability:

Passion/interest in working with/caring for horses

Unemployed or underemployed

Not in full time education/training

15+ years of age

Ontario resident and legally entitled to work in Ontario

Benefits Of The Equine Program:

Building connections within the equine industry

Job placements for new graduates

Learn from equine industry experts

(With files from Equine Guelph)
A strong local economy, affordable healthcare, body autonomy and gun safety are the top four issues of importance named by Democratic nominee Sara Ratcliffe of Greene County in her bid to represent newly drawn District 62 in the Virginia House of Delegates.

Ratcliffe, 53, is a consultant and lifelong caretaker who grew up in the Midwest with a single mom who struggled with mental health, an issue the candidate has made a center of her platform. Ratcliffe spent her college years attending George Washington University in Washington, D.C., where she received a BA in Political Science with a concentration in U.S. domestic policy.

She started her career as staff to U.S. Senator J. James Exon (1921-2005), a former Democratic governor and senator from Nebraska. Ratcliffe also worked as a research assistant to noted political author and broadcaster, Elizabeth Drew, known for her work at The New Yorker.

In addition, she has worked with organizations on womens health and tobacco control policy, where she developed expertise in advocating for those in marginalized communities, according to saraforva.com.

Ratcliffe lived and worked for 15 years in D.C. and another 15 years in Northern Virginia before moving seven years ago to Greene County, new to the areas house district that also spans part of Culpeper, Orange and all of Madison County.

Ratcliffe was involved with numerous local, state and national campaigns beginning in 1988, even before she was old enough to vote. A highlight of her campaign career was working in Virginia and Pennsylvania to elect President Barack Obama in 2008, according to her campaign website.

Ratcliffe launched her own first campaign for elected office in 2021 against Republican Rob Bell of Albemarle in the old District 58, losing to the 22-year incumbent. She earned 37% of ballots in the district, spanning Shenandoah in the north to Scottsville in the south, and 15,000 votes. Bell has since retired from the house after the district was completely redrawn.

Ratcliffe said she is running for election again in Novemberthis time against four-term incumbent Del. Nick Freitas, R-Culpeperbecause she believes government is meant to be a force for good in peoples lives.

From my 25 years advocating alongside state legislators across the country, I know that the laws and policy enacted at the state level are often those which affect us daily, she said in response to a Star-Exponent questionnaire. I consider it our duty to participate in the political process.

At minimum, everyone should vote and help hold elected officials accountable, she stated.

My call to service brought me to seek public office, where I hope to be a voice in Richmond for those throughout the 62nd District.

Asked why she is the better candidate for the office, Ratcliffe mentioned her childhood and the struggles she saw her mother go through with mental health and making ends meet.

I saw firsthand what it means when public policy fails the needs of its citizens, she said. Later in my life, I had the blessing and burden of helping shepherd three parents through their end-of-life journeys.

Ratcliffe said it is important that elected leaders represent a variety of lived experiences.

My personal history and journey from financial struggle to economic stability combined with my professional experience shaping strong and sound public policy, which leaves no one behind, make me a compassionate, dedicated, professional choice to represent the diverse experiences and needs of our district, she said. I am committed to this community. My goal in office will be to raise their voices, address their needs and contribute to the success of all of our families, no matter their circumstances.

Married, with a stepson in college and two dogs she said were part of the family, the candidate, if elected to office, said she would first and foremost prioritize solidifying the local economy.

She mentioned funding opportunities available from the federal and state government in manufacturing, renewable energy, construction, engineering, broadband development and health and home care. Ratcliffe added for families to thrive in the district, a variety of good paying jobs must be available and the agriculture community and local businesses must be supported.

That means having a developed workforce with skills specifically tailored to jobs in those areas along with world class schools and recreational activities.

Her second priority, she said, is everyone deserves access to quality, affordable health care.

During the pandemic, we all saw, in vivid color, how vital mental health is to our overall wellbeing. Whether it is expanding basic infrastructure support for maintenance mental health care or robust, well-funded response options for managing mental health crises, we need to make access to mental health care a top priority and support increased options in local, community-based settings.

Her third legislative priority is ensuring every person has the right, access and acceptance to make their own personal decisions about the care they need regardless of their zip code or means, Ratcliffe stated.

We must protect and expand access to reproductive health, including abortion and contraception, alongside work to address the disparity in maternal mortality in our Commonwealth, she said.

Finally, everyone deserves to feel safe in their own communities, Ratcliffe said. This means balancing constitutional protections with the safety of our children through legislative solutions and commonsense policy and practices to address the gun violence epidemic, she said.

We also need to work diligently to change the culture of conflict, including a focus, not just on hardware, but also on proactive systems change, as well as building relationships between law enforcement and our broader community and with other public professionals, like social service agencies and mental health practitioners, she said.
Despite filling every certified teacher position throughout the district for this school year, officials at Lincoln Public Schools fear the nationwide teacher shortage may be upon them soon  especially in the special education department.

After seeing the applicant pool for special education teachers slowly dwindle, LPS decided to partner with the University of Nebraska-Lincoln in an effort to create a pipeline of new teachers in that department.

In order to do so, they chose to offer up a new opportunity to paraeducators in the district, a group that already has experience working with special education students.

The Para Pathway pilot program kicked off at the start of UNLs fall semester after over a year of planning. In order to enroll in the program, paras had to meet a few major requirements, including already having a bachelor's degree, continuing to work for LPS throughout the process and signing a three-year contract with the district at completion of the program.

A cohort of 14 paraeducators from throughout LPS was selected from a pool of an estimated 25 applicants, said Vann Price, associate superintendent for human resources at LPS.

It's a wonderful thing, to be able to invest in people who have shown their commitment to Lincoln public Schools, Price said. Creating this program is a way to invest in our own.

The group will take two or three classes each semester for seven semesters in a row -- including taking summer classes -- in order to earn an endorsement in special education in roughly two years. Classes take place during late afternoons or evenings to allow cohort members to work during the school day.

The program is primarily funded through LPS, and UNL waived some fees for those in the program. The students are only required to pay for any necessary coursework materials.

It was important to make the program as close to free as possible, because the salary for paras can often be too low to afford further education, said Sue Kemp, a professor of practice at UNLs Department of Special Education.

A lot of them that I've talked to wanted to do this, but they didn't have the means to do it, Kemp said of cohort members. They love working with kids, their passion is being in the classroom, but without the endorsement in teaching, they weren't able to really fully realize their dream of teaching.

The shortage of special education teachers, and teachers in general, is something Kemp has noticed at the collegiate level, too. She noted that numbers of people looking to enter the field at UNL have started to decrease since the COVID-19 pandemic.

However, she said shes hopeful that programs like this one will reverse the trend.

We've got 14 students that in two years will be able to be teachers at LPS, which is going to really help that shortage, Kemp said. I think it's a win-win all the way around.

For Derek Zabel, the timing of this program couldnt have been better.

Zabel, 23, has spent the last two years working as a paraeducator at Mickle Middle School in northeast Lincoln. He graduated from Nebraska Wesleyan in 2022 and knew he wanted to pursue a graduate degree in either school psychology or special education.

I figured regardless of which one of those two I picked, being a para would be a good way to transition into learning about what those jobs are like and just getting myself familiar with the special education students, Zabel said. I definitely enjoyed my work as a para last year a lot, and I think that's what made me really feel comfortable going with the route that I did.

Last spring, Zabel decided to take a leap and apply for the special education masters program at UNL. He was set to start during the summer semester, but then Kemp told him about this opportunity.

It was very exciting, Zabel said. I feel very fortunate to have applied when I did.

At the completion of the program, Zabel will only be about two or three classes away from receiving a masters degree rather than only an endorsement. While hell have to pay for the extra courses himself, he plans to complete the full degree.

But, free tuition wasnt the only thing that attracted him to the program.

The security of knowing that I have a guaranteed position with LPS upon finishing, that's very nice, he said. To know that I will be able to immediately get started doing the work that I want to do, and that Im not gonna have any trouble finding a place to work.

Zabel is excited to finally get started training for his next step, and Kemp is excited to play a role in helping him and the other cohort members achieve their goals.

Being a paraeducator is a hard job and getting this as a benefit and adding to really highly qualified special education teachers is really great, Kemp said.

Photos: UNL awards 588 degrees at summer commencement ceremony
An old colleague of mine called me the other day, and we hashed out the same discussion we have had many times before. It starts with harvest time nearing, a 1,000-point fall in cotton prices over the last month and a hot cup of coffee on an early morning as the DTN screen blinks in the background. Suddenly a grower says, Why cant we just sell straight to the cotton mills and cut everyone else out? Usually, when that question starts, all you have to do is stand back and watch, because ten minutes later, youll have nearly a dozen riled up cotton farmers fuming in the gin, or insurance, office. So what is the answer to this sometimes toxic question? Why dont cotton producers just sell straight to the cotton mills and cut everyone else out? Its just not that simple. Here are ten reasons why: 1. Weather. So you want to supply cotton mills with cotton? First, mills will need a certain amount of supply on hand to keep their mill running. They will probably even want a contract guaranteeing that timely supply. And, depending on what part of the country you are in and how much it has rained (or not rained) or hailed (or not hailed), your supply can vary greatly. I would hate to have contracted and promised to deliver bales that I, or my new grower-run marketing group, simply dont have. 2. Quality. Say you do have the bales, so quantity is not a problem. Well, what about quality? What if you contracted to deliver bales to a mill that produces primarily fine linens? The mill needs 31-3-36 cotton with no remarks or better, and this year was too hot, or too wet, or you harvested too soon, or too late and all you have is bark-filled cotton with a loan value topping out at 51 cents. Or, maybe the opposite happens  you have perfect cotton, and the mill only wants lower grades.

3. Timing. Mills do not purchase all of their bales to be consumed for the coming year in a one-shot spree during harvest. They may need, for example, something like 5,000 bales per month all year, every year  not 60,000 bales delivered on January 1. And what if their cotton demand changes? The mill that you were delivering 5,000 bales per month to now only wants 3,000 bales per month in their new contract. How quickly can you find another mill with similar quantity/quality specifications that will absorb your new cotton surplus? Conversely, maybe the mill wants 1,000 more bales per month. How quickly can you increase your output by 20 percent, or will you have to go elsewhere to purchase the bales that you must deliver per your contract?

4. Storage. Because of the timing issue, do you have an adequate place to store your cotton while your bales wait to be delivered to the mill? Have you factored in what that storage will cost? Or, do you use a warehouse owned by someone else? If you produce more cotton than the mill needs, are you prepared to store the surplus bales for an indeterminate amount of time, or will you sell the surplus in the open market?

5. Transportation. A great deal of the time, textile mills are not located relatively close to where cotton is produced. Do you know how to get bales to a rail station? Maybe so. But what about the paperwork requirements to get cotton, by rail, to the west coast? Finally, are you capable of following the customs laws and requirements required to ship cotton to China or Turkey or Pakistan?

6. Risk. Clearly, being a cotton supplier to mills involves a lot of risk. What if I dont have enough of the right quality of cotton, and I have to go to the market to make up the difference? I sure hope I didnt contract to supply all of my bales for 75 cents while the market has risen to 90 cents. If I do decide to hedge my price risk, do I use options or futures? Do I have the expertise to manage price risk, quantity risk, timing risk, credit risk, and  if delivering internationally  political risk and possibly exchange rate risk?

7. Capital/Financial Know How. If cotton suppliers hedge with futures contracts, they obviously go short the market to cover their natural long position. Because of this short futures position, there is a risk of margin calls if prices move higher. What if the market locks limit up multiple days in a row and you are unable to get out of your short position? A cotton buyer once told me that when his company hedges this risk, they keep a cushion of capital sitting in the bank of sometimes nearly 50 cents per pound. If you hedge with option spreads and ladder down as prices fall, can you financially absorb only a 75 percent hedge? Do you have the financial know-how and capital to look at a base price for cotton and correctly subtract your costs for storage, transportation, quality, and an appropriate risk discount to sell your bales at a profit 7,000 miles away?

8. Productivity. At the heart of economics and an increasing standard of living is increasing productivity. Textbooks talk about comparative advantage. But it all really boils down to the fact that when people specialize in what they are best at, wealth is created. Simply put, in the world of business and profit, being incredibly good at one thing is better than being average at many things. Multiple companies competing over the profit to be had in cotton trading and delivery is simply more efficient than other alternatives. And chances are you will not be more efficient than companies that specialize in this business.

9. Expertise. This ability to be more productive boils down to expertise. When companies compete over the profit potential in an industry, they gain an expertise in their business. And, this expertise allows them to be more productive in their business than others are. Just like many cotton buyers know very little about agronomy, soil science, and plant biology, few cotton producers likely have the expertise to discount, buy, transport, and deliver cotton to mills in a profitable way.

10. Headache. Cotton producers dont sell to textile mills because who wants the headache? You already farm. You work hard every day. You love your wife and worry about your kids. You also worry about cotton prices, fuel prices, seed prices, fertilizer prices, land payments, equipment payments, the weather, water, property taxes, the school board, your churchs finances and everything else under the sun. Why would you want to get waist-deep into another business that you have never been part of?

I recently spoke with an executive of a large multinational textile company about this topic. I gave him a short outline of the ten points listed here, then posed the question, Why dont cotton growers by-in-large sell directly to textile companies like yours?

He said, As far as problems, you listed almost everything I was going to say. We have done this before. As a test of sorts, we have bought cotton on a small scale directly from growers close to one of our plants. We may continue this experiment in the future, but I would probably summarize the entire process as high maintenance work for too little volume. We just get such great service from the merchants and the coops.

So, my advice is to forget about discounting, transportation, contract negotiation, price risk, exchange rate risk, quality and quantity risk and international terms of trade. Let the companies that specialize in cotton trade and delivery battle it out over the existing profit in that business.

In other words, let the market do its job. Youll be astounded how good it can be.

First published by Cotton Grower.
On July 26th the central African nation of Niger experienced a military takeover of the government. This was condemned by just about every government in Africa and beyond. The only American military presence in Niger are two UAV bases, one in central Niger called Base 201, and a smaller Base 101 in the southwest outside the Niger capital of Niamey. The two bases are operated by about a thousand American military, mainly air force, personnel. Base 201 has been operational since 2019 and is mainly used for long-range surveillance UAVs or similar UAVs armed with guided missiles. Those UAVs have been essential to monitoring the growing Islamic terrorism in Africa.

There are a lot of corrupt elected governments in Africa and the local military leaders often try to deal with the corruption by taking over the government, purportedly trying to reduce the corruption and then allow democracy to return. That rarely works as the corruption is extensive, persistent, resistant to reform and that includes the occasional military coup. Experience has shown that a military coup is rarely effective at fixing anything and usually makes matters worse because most African nations oppose military governments and refuse to support or cooperate with them when they occur in a nearby country. There is a similar response by foreign aid donors, who halt aid until democracy is restored.

Foreign aid is crucial in Africa because corruption limits the amount of money governments can spend on essential infrastructure, health or food aid programs. That means, when a coup takes place, the new military government finds itself isolated, criticized and denied most forms of foreign aid or cooperation. In Niger that meant the air space over Niger was closed and surrounding nations closed their borders with Niger. The coup leaders are isolated, criticized and left with few options other than abandoning their effort to make their version of local government work. Some military governments last for years by creating a plausible, to most of the locals, external threat. Their neighbors and foreign aid donors usually quickly denounce this fiction.

During the Cold War unelected governments could keep the aid coming by playing off the Western and communist donors against each other. After the Cold War ended in 1991, the only donors left were Western democracies. Dictatorships tend to be much less affluent and unable to provide much aid to anyone. Such an environment is common throughout Africa, especially where there are valuable raw materials that generate even more corruption. Niger does not have any valuable natural resources and must import more than it exports. This imbalance is made possible by lots of foreign aid. When there is a coup, the food, medical and similar aid generally continues unless the new government tries to steal the aid.

The current Niger coup has shut down American military operations because air space has been closed by neighboring countries that do not permit legal aircraft operations into or out of Niger. This is what has put the two American air bases at risk of being shut down permanently. Before the coup, Niger was considered one of the more stable African countries foreign air forces could operate out of. There are about 2,000 American and French military personnel in Niger and the longer the coup continues the more likely those troops will be withdrawn.

American UAV bases in Niger have been operational since 2019. The Niger government gave American and French UAVs operating in or over Niger permission to carry Hellfire missiles and other guided weapons inside Niger. For the most part this means U.S. and French MQ-9 Reaper UAVs operating from existing bases in Niger, Mali and Djibouti. France also operates manned combat aircraft from bases in Mali. EU peacekeepers also operate armed UAVs and helicopters in northern Mali. Initially there were only about 800 U.S. troops in Niger, most of them maintaining the aerial surveillance UAVs and other aircraft and helping train Niger troops. Then there was an incident where four American Special Forces soldiers were killed when the training exercise (a large patrol) they were supervising clashed with Islamic terrorists operating near the Mali border. Four of the Niger troops were killed as well and even more American and Niger troops were wounded. This led Niger to allow armed UAVs to operate in Niger. In the past there had not been many situations calling for rapid response by armed aircraft. The early Special Forces incident made it clear the situation had changed. Before that it was possible to get foreign aircraft to come and carry out an air strike but the process took time. The Niger and American troops were not expecting to encounter such a large force of Islamic terrorists and having armed UAVs on call would have made a big difference.

This problem is largely the result of the success of French counter-terror operations in Mali and the defeat of Boko Haram in Nigeria. In both cases many of the surviving Islamic terrorists fled to Niger. This has been going on for some time and Niger has responded by allowing in more and more foreign assistance.

In 2016 construction began on a new U.S. AFRICOM (Africa Command) base in Agadez, Niger, 730 kilometers northeast of the capital (Niamey). The U.S. had received permission for such a base in 2014, a year after American UAVs began operating from a Niger base next to the Niamey airport. The new Agadez base was built largely from scratch because, unlike Niamey, Agadez does not have a large airport or much in the way of support for lots of aircraft operations. Agadez is closer to Chad, southern Libya and Nigeria, where American aerial surveillance is more in demand by the local governments. The U.S. shares intelligence obtained by the Niger-based UAVs with Niger and other nations in the area that have intelligence sharing agreements as well as with France, which leads the counter-terrorism effort in the region.

Since 2013 France has operated a counter-terrorism operation throughout the Sahel (the semi-desert area south of the desert that stretches across northern Africa) using about 4,000 French troops based mainly in Mali. About the same time work began on the Agadez base, France and other European nations helped form the G5 Sahel Joint Force consisting of 5,000 troops from Sahel nations Mali, Mauritania, Burkina Faso, Niger and Chad. The G5 force is mainly concerned with Islamic terror groups in the Sahel.

Agadez is the second American airbase in Africa and, like the first one, shared with France and other allies. The first U.S. base was established in 2002 when the United States began sharing an old French base in Djibouti (the northwestern neighbor of Somalia). Since then, Djibouti has hosted the one official U.S. military base (Camp Lemonnier) in Africa. France and the United States SOCOM (Special Operations Command) have had special operations forces (commandos and special aircraft) outside the Djibouti capital since 2002. In 2014 the U.S. signed another ten year lease for that base. At that point U.S. forces in Djibouti were monitoring what was going on in the region (mainly Somalia and Yemen but also Eritrea, Nigeria, Mali, Libya, Kenya, and Ethiopia) but not interfering with the local terrorists. Not much, anyway. The Djibouti base also supported operations throughout the Sahel and did this with a dozen or so MQ-9s plus manned aircraft like the U-28, F-15Es and various maritime surveillance aircraft in addition to a growing number of other foreign aircraft.

Since 2007 the United States has created and expanded AFRICOM to manage all the increasingly numerous American military operations in Africa. Since most of these operations involved special operations forces rather than conventional military forces AFRICOM released little detail on what was where. But in the last few years more of these details have emerged. As suspected most of the fifty or so AFRICOM bases' ' are temporary agreements to use existing civilian or military air bases or other facilities in African nations, usually ones where AFRICOM is providing assistance in dealing with Islamic terrorist activity or other security threats. Most of these facilities are considered temporary or contingent (just arrangements to use an airbase or port facility if needed and on short notice). The permanent operations are bases or FOS (Forward Operating Sites) while the temporary sites are CSLs (cooperative security locations) where American and local forces operate together or CLs (contingency locations) where arrangements have been made for use if needed. About half the AFRICOM sites are CLs and not used by Americans on a regular basis.

AFRICOM is similar in organization to other commands (CENTCOM, for the Middle East, and SOUTHCOM, for Latin America, etc). Before AFRICOM was created those operations were coordinated between two other commands (the one covering Europe and the one covering Latin America). The establishment of AFRICOM means more money for counter-terror operations in Africa and more long range projects. No country in Africa had sufficient infrastructure for AFRICOM headquarters and few wanted to risk the political blowback from hosting a major American military headquarters.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, August 29)  A lawmaker on Tuesday urged the Department of Education (DepEd) to fully implement its revised K-10 curriculum as early as possible to address learning problems among Filipino students.

Citing a World Bank report, House Basic Education Committee Chair Rep. Roman Romulo told CNN Philippines The Source that around 90% of 10-year-old Filipino learners struggle to comprehend even simple texts.

The lawmaker commended the DepEd for decongesting the old program and focusing on key areas and urged its immediate full implementation.

We should be alarmed. There should be some sense of urgency, if we can hasten the implementation and focus on reading, reading, reading and basic mathematics. We should do that at the soonest possible time, he said.

DepEd launched the new MATATAG K-10 program early this month. Learning competencies were reduced to around 3,600 from over 11,000 in the latest curriculum to give more time for foundational skills for a better learning outcome.

The program will undergo pilot implementation during school year 2023-2024, but a two-week delay is expected as the DepEd has yet to finalize its list of 30 participating schools across six regions.

Romulo said it would be better to fully implement the program by the second or third grading period.

"Since we've reduced, there should be materials there that are usable, we should be able to adjust immediately," Romulo said.

If we don't do anything different then why should we expect some reforms to have really a meaningful change? he asked.

The DepEd has so far logged over 22 million enrollees for this school year, with around 19 million public school students returning to their classrooms on Tuesday.
The IEA (Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan) government is still not recognized by any other nations. Thats fine with the IEA, which continues to tolerate the presence of al Qaeda personnel as well as TTP (the Pakistani Taliban). TTP support was expected and IEA tolerates the presence of any Islamic terror groups that do not attack IEA rule in Afghanistan.

The previous Islamic Republic of Afghanistan (IRA) government still has many supporters inside and outside Afghanistan, still operates forty diplomatic missions worldwide and has the support of millions of expatriate Afghans.

UN officials supervising aid deliveries noticed al Qaeda training camps in several as well as Islamic terrorists moving about openly in many parts of the country. Suicide bombers are being trained and indoctrinated for use outside Afghanistan. Some are being sent to Western countries where they can hide among the many Afghan refugees fleeing IEA rule. The IEA continues to impose more and more lifestyle restrictions similar to those they enforced in the 1990s. This includes a ban on listening to live or recorded music. The IEA also censored what could be shown by Afghan TV stations. This meant no shows that had women with uncovered faces as well as no music. The IEA wants women appearing in public to wear the burqa (covers everything except the hands and eyes.) Many rural Afghans support some of these urban ideas, especially education for girls and more education in general. Beyond that these rural Afghans tend to be more conservative than those living in urban areas. The IEA is having a hard time coping with the current Afghanistan, which is quite different from the one they ruled before September 11, 2001.

August 28, 2023: India is a major participant in United Nations World Food Program efforts to distribute food aid in Afghanistan. India recently contributed 37,500 tons of wheat and 200 tons of medical aid to Afghanistan via the UN. The Indian aid is delivered via the port of Chabahar port near the Pakistan border and a road that goes from the port to the Afghan border in the north.

August 27, 2023: The IEA continues to impose more and more lifestyle restrictions similar to those they enforced in the 1990s and, in some cases, more severe than in the past. The most recent restriction was to ban women from visiting national parks because too many of the women reveal their faces. This is something the lifestyle regulators do not approve of. This attitude toward women is similar to what the religious dictatorship in Iran seeks to impose on women. The big issue in Iran is women refusing to cover their hair with a hijab (scarf). The governments in both Iran and Afghanistan are losing support among women, which is not a good thing if you want to run a country without creating more problems.

August 25, 2023: In the east (Nangarhar Province) WHO (World Health Organization) polio monitoring teams have detected five more cases of polio. That makes 32 so far this year. All but two turned up in Nangarhar Province. There were also at least two cases in Pakistan. These are the only cases detected worldwide. Pakistan expects to have no cases in 2024, unless the number of refugees from Afghanistan increases substantially. Despite years of strenuous efforts, Afghanistan has been unable to eliminate polio via vaccinations. For a long time, the main opposition were Islamic conservative clerics who called the vaccinations an attempt by Western nations to poison Moslem children. While few of those clerics remain, there are now more Afghans agreeing with Western anti-vaccination groups and insisting there are harmful side effects. Numerous controlled studies have not demonstrated any evidence of this but it has become popular. In 2016 there were 20 cases of polio in Pakistan, 13 in Afghanistan and four in Nigeria, a country declared free of polio in 2020. In Pakistan and Afghanistan there are still religious problems with vaccination. The Afghan Taliban have openly supported the vaccination program but there are still some rural areas where local Moslem clerics or teachers still denounce the vaccinations. There is a similar situation in Pakistan, where some fringe Islamic groups will still try and kill members of the vaccination teams. Since 2008 over a hundred vaccinators and police escorts have been killed.

August 24, 2023: Afghanistan is rebuilding its healthcare system after it collapsed when the IEA took control of the country in late 2021 and expelled most foreign aid workers. The medical personnel were most missed, especially since many Afghan medical specialists also fled the country.

August 23, 2023: A hundred Afghan women were prevented from boarding an airline flight from Kabul to the UAE (United Arab Emirates) where they were to attend the University of Dubai. The women had scholarships provided by Dubai businessman and philanthropist Khalaf Ahmad Al Habtoor. Three of the Afghan scholarship students made it to Dubai anyway and others may follow. The IEA believes that women should not receive more than six years of education and should not work outside the home or travel long distances without a male family member as an escort. The Dubai scholarships violate most of these rules. Dubai is a center for commerce throughout the region and the pre-IEA Taliban had often visited Dubai to conduct business, diplomacy or less savory activities.

August 22, 2023: UN aid personnel in Afghanistan report that the IEA continues to violate the amnesty they declared for all members of the IRA military and police. Few formally accepted that amnesty offer and most just walked away and went back to civilian life. Over a hundred of these former troops and police were killed by vengeful Taliban gunmen and it took the IEA months to bring that under control. Apparently IEA never really stopped its vengeance operations. The IRA continues to hunt for those who worked for the IRA government. Those captured are often tortured and almost always killed. The UN aid personnel believe over 200 former IRA employees have been killed so far.

August 21, 2023: The IEA continues to shut down poppy production. Poppies are used to produce opium which, in turn, can be converted to heroin. Over 90 percent of Afghan poppies are produced in one Afghan province; Helmand. Then as now, neighboring Pakistan cooperates to make this work because essential chemicals must be imported to refine the opium into heroin. Pakistan is also the most effective route to worldwide drug markets via Pakistani airports and its seaport in Karachi. Afghanistans other neighbors (Iran, Uzbekistan and Tajikistan) are very hostile to the drug smugglers. Afghanistans northern neighbors, all former Soviet republics, have long received armed assistance from Russia to combat the drug smugglers. The IEA has closed its border to any Pakistanis seeking to support or benefit from Afghan drug production.

The IEA also told Pakistan that the TTP is a Pakistani problem and there is nothing the IEA can do about it.

August 18, 2023: Iran reports that at least 10,000 Afghan refugees are arriving in Iran each day. There are nearly ten million Afghan refugees in Iran and about 18 percent have some military or combat experience. The Afghan refugees take care of each other and new arrivals, providing assistance to find work and advising them what not to do in order to avoid problems with their Iranian hosts. The refugees fled Afghanistan to get away from the violence, lack of jobs and IEA persecution. Many move on from Iran to other nations in the region while those who can afford it head for Europe or North America.

August 17, 2023: Foreign aid organizations estimate that nearly six percent of the Afghan population are in danger of starvation because of a lack of foreign food getting in to Afghanistan, a collapse of the economy and three years of drought in many parts of the country. The IEA takes care of its supporters, who are a small minority of the population and do little for the majority of Afghans. The IEA appears unwilling to do anything to revive the economy. There is no more foreign economic aid since the IEA took over two years ago and the IEA does not consider reviving the economy a high priority goal. Afghanistan has become a dangerous place for foreign aid workers, with about 30 of them killed since the IEA took over. The IEA is living in the past and that means most Afghans are worse off and a growing number are dying from lack of food or medical care. Neighboring nations see no benefit in trying to overthrow and replace the IEA and are willing to just let the IEA self-destruct. Too many of the religious radicals running the IEA are content to believe whatever is happening is God's Will and therefore acceptable.

August 16, 2023: IEA has banned political parties in Afghanistan, declaring them un-Islamic and responsible for many of the economic, social and political problems in Afghanistan.

August 14, 2023: In the east (Khost province) there was an explosion in a hotel near the Pakistan border. Three people were killed and seven wounded.

August 1, 2023: The 2022 invasion of Ukraine has been a disaster for Russia, because Russian troops ran into unexpected and very effective Ukrainian resistance. Russia lost more troops in less than a year of fighting in Ukraine than they did during eight years of fighting in Afghanistan during the 1980s.
A mid- morning fire Aug. 25 destroyed part of an apartment complex in Richlands.

Police Chief Ron Holt said the call came in at 10:36 a.m. of a structure fire at the Oxford Square apartment complex.

Police, Fire and Rescue units responded to the scene and found a building that was partially engulfed in fire and smoke.

Within moments, the entire building was fully involved. Emergency responders were able to contain the fire to one building.

Holt said several people were taken to the hospital for smoke inhalation but there were no serious injuries.

He said several pets were lost in the blaze. All eight units were occupied although the resident of one apartment had been hospitalized for some time prior to the fire.

The chief said the incident is still under investigation but foul play has been ruled out.

He said while the final report has not been received, preliminary indications are the fire may have been weather related.

He said the first units on the scene said the building was burning from the top down. Investigator Daniels of the Richlands Police Department and Special Agent Starnes of the Virginia State Police are leading the investigation.

All eight units were reported as a total loss.

The American Red Cross came to the scene and provided immediate assistance as well as information on what assistance is available to them.

Holt said all of the victims had family or friends they are able to stay with temporarily.

Several agencies and individuals were offering assistance in addition to the Red Cross.

We would like to thank all of the emergency responders who answered this call for service, and a special thanks to the Town of Tazewell Fire Department for their assistance.

We would also like thank Senator Travis Hackworth and his office for their assistance in coordinating help from the Red Cross, Richlands Street Department, Richlands Town Council for their generous donations, Food Lion, James Gibson, Pizza Hut, and Giovannis for the donations of food and drinks, as well as Tazewell County Sheriffs Office for their ongoing support, and Tazewell County Emergency Management, a press release from the police department said.
Mamdouh al-Abadi said the presence of Syrian refugees has contributed to various challenges in Jordan, according to Sowt al-Asima.

Former Jordanian Minister of State, Mamdouh al-Abadi, has advocated for the compulsory repatriation of Syrian refugees from Jordan, asserting that areas under the control of the Syrian regime are safer than Jordan.

During an interview on Jordans Roya TV, Abadi stated that the influx of over 1.7 million Syrian refugees into Jordan has resulted in numerous crises, and he recommended that the government should facilitate their return through compulsory measures, rather than relying on voluntary means.

Abadi, a former minister, contended that Syria is now entirely secure, except for regions outside the authority of the Syrian regime in the northern and eastern parts of the country. He emphasized that he has not come across any instances of Syrian citizens being harmed from Hama to Daraa.

According to Abadi, the presence of Syrian refugees has contributed to various challenges in Jordan, including water scarcity that has impacted his ability to access clean water at his own residence.

Statistics from the UNHCR indicated that, from the commencement of the year until the conclusion of July, around 2,582 Syrian refugees have returned from Jordan to Syria.

Moreover, the United Nations World Food Program announced a reduction in humanitarian aid for approximately half a million Syrian refugees in Jordan. The aid amount per person will now be lowered from $32 to $21, starting from Wednesday, July 19th.

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.
All facilities and members associated with the SDF will be considered "legitimate targets" by the tribes if the deadline is not met, according to Athr Press.

In a recorded statement, the tribes and clans of Deir-ez-Zor have issued an ultimatum to the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), giving them a maximum of 12 years to release the detained leaders of the Deir-ez-ZorMilitary Council who are currently held in Hasakeh. The statement contains a strong warning that if the detainees are not released within the specified timeframe, the tribes and clans will declare a state of public alarm against the SDF.

The statement also appeals to the International Coalition to intervene and secure the release of the detained leaders. Additionally, it urges Arab members associated with the SDF to defect from their ranks and join the tribes and clans in their cause.

It is emphasized in the statement that if their demands are not met by the end of the stipulated period, all facilities and members associated with the SDF will become legitimate targets for the tribes and clans.

Sheikh Nawaf Ragheb al-Bashir, the leader of the Baggara tribe, issued the statement on Monday, calling for a widespread uprising against both the International coalition and the SDF. He calls upon tribes and clans in Deir ez-Zor, Hasakeh, and Raqqa to join in this movement.

The Euphrates area, controlled by the International Coalition and the SDF, remains volatile with daily clashes. These tensions escalated after the arrest of al-Khabil and his associates. Local sources report that tribesmen blocked roads connecting various villages, causing disruption in the region.

In response, members of the Deir ez-Zor Military Council targeted the SDFs special operations headquarters near Al-Husayn village and the al-Sanour checkpoint in Abu Hamam town.

In the northern countryside, theres a significant presence of the Deir ez-Zor Military Council members. Notably, commanders like Abdul Salam al-Hanash and Abu Abdullah al-Dairi were arrested during their vacations in Raqqa Governorate and Tabqa city, respectively.

According to sources, Abu Laith Khasham has been appointed as the new leader of the Council in place of Khabil. Its reported that the detained former leader was mistreated during captivity and had to be hospitalized in Hasakeh. Allegedly, he was coerced by the SDF leadership to make a televised statement announcing the dissolution of the Deir ez-Zor Military Council.

Sheikhs and prominent figures from Arab tribes have travelled to Hasakeh to meet with SDFs commander-in-chief, Mazloum Abdi.

The situation in SDF-controlled areas in Deir-ez-Zor remains uncertain, with no clear solutions in sight. Tribal sources indicate a likelihood of further escalation.

On a recent Sunday evening, SDF arrested the commander of the Deir-ez-Zor Military Council, Ahmed Khabil, and surrounded other leaders in Hasakeh City. The operation involved imposing a curfew in parts of Hasakah and blocking main roads, leading to the arrest of Khabil.

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.
Secret meeting between Louqa and Nasrallah delved into multifaceted regional dynamics, according to Syria TV.

Against the aspirations of the Syrian regime, the very Syrians whose inner fire the regime believed it had quelled, are now resurging in the north and south. The region that the regime assumed had succumbed to surrender could erupt anew at any given moment. Consequently, the regime finds itself immersed in a state of unexpected political and tactical turmoil. This situation compels both the regime and its allies to meticulously reconsider their approaches and strategies moving forward.

Louqas visit to Beirut: Meeting Nasrallah and others

Amidst the unfolding reality in Syria, an intriguing secret visit took place that captured attention. Head of the General Intelligence Service, Hossam Louqa, undertook a discreet trip to Beirut, where he engaged in discussions with prominent figures. Notably, he met with Lebanese Hezbollah Secretary-General Hassan Nasrallah and key figures within the resistance axis. These figures included Lebanese presidential candidate Suleiman Franjieh, among others. According to a diplomatic source cited by Syria TV, Louqas discussions with Nasrallah covered various critical topics, with a primary focus on recent developments in Syria and regional relations.

During his meeting with Nasrallah, Louqa addressed several pivotal matters, including the recent visit of a Saudi Arabian security delegation to Damascus. The discussions with regime officials indicated a gradual shift toward normalization between the two nations. Notably, Saudi Arabia expressed concerns about the expansion of Hezbollahs influence across Syrian territory, as well as the acquisition of land and real estate by the party and affiliated sectarian militias in various areas. This also encompassed the concentration of Shiite groups on the outskirts of Damascus.

Louqa conveyed to Nasrallah the Saudi demand for the release of detainees and a subsequent general amnesty, which Saudi Arabia viewed as a prerequisite for reopening its consular section in Syria. Additionally, concerns arose regarding drug exportation from Syria to other countries, contributing to the Gulfs apprehension.

Nasrallah, in response, perceived external motivations behind certain movements. He noted Israeli-Jordanian encouragement for activities in the region, and he linked movements in Daraa to American and Jordanian initiatives, financed externally. Nasrallah emphasized the need for resolute action against such external influences, which aimed to shape Syrias future in alignment with Arab reconstruction conditions.

The discussions also touched upon potential American and Turkish involvement, as the Turks exhibited a shift in attitude towards the Syrian regime. Nasrallah and Louqa acknowledged the possibility of Saudi Arabia supporting Syrian factions to exert further pressure on the regime, prompting negotiations from altered perspectives.

Consequently, both sides recognized the intensification of pressure on Bashar al-Assad, exacerbated by the suspension of US-Syrian negotiations on American hostages and renewed discussions regarding Irans nuclear program. Nasrallah identified this as a bid to exploit Russias diversion of attention due to the Ukrainian conflict.

As these events unfold, the Syrian regime remains watchful of the situations progression, particularly its potential spread to various cities. The regime faces the dilemma of responding to demonstrators with varying degrees of severity, potentially leading to calls for Hezbollah and Iranian military and security support. This could cement the regimes dependence on Iran and Hezbollah, impacting Arab normalization efforts. Saudi Arabias deadline for the regime to demonstrate change looms, and there are apprehensions of Hezbollah deploying fighters on a larger scale, potentially challenging the regimes control over its forces.

In summary, the secret meeting between Louqa and Nasrallah delved into multifaceted regional dynamics, including Saudi concerns, external influences, and the evolving Syrian landscape. The outcomes of these discussions hold implications for Syrias future, the balance of power in the region, and the delicate interplay between internal and external forces shaping the countrys trajectory.

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 Ministry of Finance has issued Notification No. 08/2023-Customs (ADD) Dated: 29th August, 2023 imposing anti-dumping duty on fishing net imports from China PR and Malaysia.

MINISTRY OF FINANCE

(Department of Revenue)

New Delhi

Notification No. 08/2023-Customs (ADD) | Dated: 29th August, 2023

G.S.R. 634(E).Whereas, the designated authority, vide notification No. 7/22/2022-DGTR, dated the 30th September, 2022, published in the Gazette of India, Extraordinary, Part I, Section 1, dated the 30th September, 2022, had initiated the review in terms of sub-section (5) of section 9A of the Customs Tariff Act, 1975 (51 of 1975) (hereinafter referred to as the Customs Tariff Act), and in pursuance of rule 23 of the Customs Tariff (Identification, Assessment and Collection of Anti-dumping Duty on Dumped Articles and for Determination of Injury) Rules, 1995, in the matter of continuation of anti-dumping duty on imports of Fishing Net (hereinafter referred to as the subject goods) falling under tariff item 5608 11 10 of the First Schedule to the Customs Tariff Act, originating in or exported from China PR (hereinafter referred to as the subject countries) initially imposed vide notification of the Government of India, Ministry of Finance (Department of Revenue), No. 20/2018-Customs (ADD), dated the 10th April, 2018, published in the Gazette of India, Extraordinary, Part II, Section 3, Sub-section (i), vide number G.S.R. 359(E), dated the 10th April, 2018;

And whereas, in the matter of review of anti-dumping duty on imports of the subject goods, originating in or exported from the subject countries, the designated authority in its final findings, published vide notification No. 7/22/2022-DGTR, dated the 08th June, 2023, published in the Gazette of India, Extraordinary, Part-I, Section 1, dated the 08th June, 2023, has come to the conclusion that-

(i) there is continued dumping of the subject goods both directly from the subject country and indirectly through Malaysia despite the anti-dumping duties in force;

(ii) the fact that Chinese-origin dumped imports continued through Malaysia after the imposition of duties shows a strong likelihood that if the duties were to be revoked the volume of subject imports will increase at a much higher rate and at much lower prices;

(iii) there is a likelihood of continuance or recurrence of dumping and injury if the existing anti-dumping duties are allowed to cease,

and has recommended continued imposition of the anti-dumping duty on imports of the subject goods, originating in or exported from the subject country, in order to remove injury to the domestic industry;

And whereas, the designated authority, vide notification No. 7/01/2023-DGTR, dated the 21st February 2023, published in the Gazette of India, Extraordinary, Part I, Section 1 dated the 21st February 2023, in the matter of circumvention via Malaysia of the anti-dumping duty imposed on imports of subject goods originating in or exported from the China PR, had initiated an investigation to determine the need for extending the anti-dumping duty imposed on imports of subject goods, originating in or exported from the China PR, vide notification of the Government of India in the Ministry of Finance (Department of Revenue), No. 20/2018-Customs (ADD), dated the 10th April, 2018, published in the Gazette of India, Extraordinary, Part II, Section 3, Sub-section (i), vide number G.S.R. 359(E), dated the 10th April, 2018, to the imports of subject goods falling under the tariff item 5608 11 10 of the First Schedule to the Customs Tariff Act, originating in, or exported from Malaysia into India;

And whereas, the designated authority in its final findings, published vide notification No. 7/01/2023-DGTR, dated the 07th June 2023, in the Gazette of India, Extraordinary, Part I, Section 1, has come to the conclusion that-

(i) there has been a change in pattern of trade in case of subject goods and there appears no economic justification other than imposition of duties for such change in pattern of trade;

(ii) imports of subject goods are entering at dumped prices;

(iii) the import of subject goods has undermined the remedial effect of existing anti-dumping measures on subject goods originating in or exported from China PR;

(iv) dumping margin is above de minimis, the commercial gain due to erosion of anti-dumping duty on subject goods has benefitted producers or exporters by exporting subject goods,

and has recommended imposition of the existing anti-dumping duty imposed on the imports of subject goods, originating in or exported from the China PR, vide notification of the Government of India in the Ministry of Finance (Department of Revenue), No. 20/2018-Customs (ADD), dated the 10th April, 2018, published in the Gazette of India, Extraordinary, Part II, Section 3, Sub-section (i), vide number G.S.R. 359(E), dated the 10th April, 2018, on the subject goods, originating in or exported from Malaysia into India.

Now, therefore, in exercise of the powers conferred by sub-sections (1), (1A) and (5) of section 9A of the Customs Tariff Act, read with rule 27 of the Customs Tariff (Identification, Assessment and Collection of Antidumping Duty on Dumped Articles and for Determination of Injury) Rules, 1995, and in supersession of the notification of the Government of India, Ministry of Finance (Department of Revenue), No. 20/2018-Customs (ADD), dated the 10th April, 2018, published in the Gazette of India, Extraordinary, Part II, Section 3, Sub-section (i), vide number G.S.R. 359(E), dated the 10th April, 2018, the Central Government, after considering the aforesaid final findings of the designated authority, hereby imposes on the subject goods, the description of which is specified in column (3) of the Table below, specification of which is specified in column (4), falling under tariff item of the First Schedule to the Customs Tariff Act, specified in the corresponding entry in column (2), originating in the countries specified in the corresponding entry in column (5), exported from the countries specified in the corresponding entry in column (6), produced by the producers specified in the corresponding entry in column (7), exported by the exporters specified in the corresponding entry in column (8) and imported into India, an anti-dumping duty at the rate equal to the amount specified in the corresponding entry in column (9), in the currency specified in the corresponding entry in column (11) and as per unit of measurement specified in the corresponding entry in column (10) of the said Table, namely:-

TABLE

SNo Tariff

Item Description of Goods Specifi- cation Country of Origin Country of Export 1 2 3 4 5 6 1 5608 1110 Fishing Net Any China PR Any country including China PR 2 5608 1110 Fishing Net Any Any country other than China PR China PR 3 5608 1110 Fishing Net Any Malaysia Malaysia 4 5608 1110 Fishing Net Any Malaysia Any country 5 5608 1110 Fishing Net Any Any country other than Malaysia

and China PR Malaysia



Producer Exporter Amount Unit of measurement Currency 7 8 9 10 11 Any Any 2.19 Kg US Dollar Any Any 2.19 Kg US Dollar Any Any 2.19 Kg US Dollar Any Any 2.19 Kg US Dollar Any Any 2.19 Kg US Dollar

***Note 

(i) fishing nets are made up of nylon only  whether 100% or blended. In case of blended, scope includes fishing nets containing 50% or more nylon by weight.

(ii) Product under consideration does not include HDPE fishing net.

2. The anti-dumping duty imposed under this notification shall be effective from the date of publication of this notification in the Official Gazette and shall be payable in Indian currency.

Explanation.- For the purposes of this notification, rate of exchange applicable for the purposes of calculation of such anti-dumping duty shall be the rate which is specified in the notification of the Government of India, in the Ministry of Finance (Department of Revenue), issued from time to time, in exercise of the powers conferred by section 14 of the Customs Act, 1962 (52 of 1962), and the relevant date for the determination of the rate of exchange shall be the date of presentation of the bill of entry under section 46 of the said Customs Act.

[F. No. CBIC-190354/150/2023-TRU]

NITISH KARNATAK, Under Secy.
Jignesh Panchal VS DCIT (ITAT Delhi)

Introduction: The case of Jignesh Panchal versus DCIT at the ITAT Delhi revolves around the intriguing scenario of withheld tax, not deposited by the employer, and how this affects an employees tax refund under Section 205 of the Income Tax Act.

Analysis: The foundation of the appeal rests on the delay in filing, with the assessee claiming that a significant portion of this delay fell within the extension granted by the Honble Supreme Court due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Moreover, the assessee was not initially served the first appellate order, which was subsequently downloaded from the departments portal.

At the core of the controversy is the TDS of Rs. 24,75,000/- deducted by the employer, M/s. Texl Exports Pvt. Ltd. The AO, and later the CIT(A), rejected the appellants claims surrounding this TDS. The key point of contention is the non-deposition of TDS by the employer to the government account. The counsel, leaning on past judgments and Section 205 of the Act, argued against any adjustments in withheld tax not deposited by the employer against the refund due to the employee.

Conclusion: Aligning with a similar case of the Honble Delhi High Court, ITAT Delhi upheld the rights of the assessee. It ruled that the revenue cannot adjust the withheld tax, which the employer hasnt deposited in the Central Government account, against refunds owed to the employee. As a result, the AO has been directed to honor the claim of the assessee concerning the TDS amount deducted by the employer. The ruling underscores the importance of safeguarding employee rights in tax matters, even if theres a lapse on the employers part.

FULL TEXT OF THE ORDER OF ITAT DELHI

1. The ld counsel submitted that this appeal has been filed against the order of the ld CIT(A)/ National Faceless Appeal Centre (NFAC) dated 19.11.2021 on 29.08.2022 by the delay of 223 it is out of which the period from 20.11.2021 to 28.02.2022 falls within the period extended by Honble Supreme Court due to Covid-19 pandemic. The ld counsel submitted that, therefore, the appeal should have filed by the assessee on or before 28.04.2022 and there is delay of 121 days not 223 days as reported by the registry of ITAT. The ld counsel further submitted that the impugned first appellate order dated 19.11.2021 was never served on the assessee till the date of filing of appeal before the Tribunal and when it came to knowledge of the assessee then the order was downloaded from the departmental portal of Income Tax on 17.08.2022 and appeal was filed on 29.08.2022. Thus, infact, there is no delay in filing appeal and even if it is presumed that there is some delay in filing appeal then major part of time period falls within the limitation period extended by Honble Supreme Court and remaining part of 121 days is as explained that the order of ld CIT(A) was never served on the assessee till the date of filing of appeal and the assessee could only get the copy of the order by downloading the same from the department portal.

2. The ld Sr. DR strongly opposed to the condonation of delay, however, he did not controvert that the Honble Supreme Court by its order extended the limitation period up to 28.02.2022 and the period from 20.11.2021 to 28.02.2022 fall within the said extended limitation period. So far as the remaining part is concerned the assessee is claiming that he did not received copy of first appellate order form the department and when it came to his notice then he downloaded the same from the departmental portal on 17.08.2022 thereafter filed appeal on 29.08.2022 therefore, small delay in filing appeal due to sufficient cause may kindly condoned.

3. In view of the foregoing factual position, we are of the considered view that the almost 1/ 2 part of delay is covered by the order of Honble Supreme Court and regarding remaining part of delay the explaining and cause shown that the assessee has bonafide and sufficient cause explaining the delay therefore, remaining part of delay in filing appeal is condoned. Accordingly, application of assessee is allowed and appeal is admitted for hearing and adjudication.

4. The sole controversy in this appeal is pertaining to the claim of the appellant in respect of TDS amounting to Rs. 24,75,000/- deducted by the employer M/s. Texl Exports Pvt. Ltd the ld counsel submitted that the AO ought not to have rejected the application u/s 154 of the Act thereby disregarding the claim of appellant in respect of TDS amount deducted by the employer M/s. Texl Exports Pvt. Ltd despite the fact that such employer and duly mentioned in TDS certificate of form No. 16 that there is mistake apparent from the record which could be rectified in the order u/s 154 of the Income Tax Act, 1961. The ld counsel vehemently pointed out that the ld CIT(A) has also erred in sustaining the liability against the assessee, and not allowing the credit of TDS deducted by the employer despite the fact that the assessee furnish Form No. 16 as well as certificate of TDS before him. The ld counsel submitted that the assessee cannot be blamed on the omission and default of deductor employee on the ground that the TDS was deducted by the employer was not deposited by the deductee to the Govt account. The ld counsel placing reliance on the various judgments including judgment of jurisdictional Honble Delhi High Court in the case of Sanjay Sudan Vs. ACIT reported as 452 ITR 107 (Del) to submit that the revenue cannot adjust withheld tax which has not been deposited by the deductor/ employer in Central Govt account, against refund due and payable to the assessee-employee. The ld counsel also placed reliance on section 205 of the Act as well CBDT Instruction No. 275/29/2014 dated 01.06.2015 and submitted that there is bar on direct demand qua the deductee assessee employee, same cannot be enforced coercively.

5. Replying to the above the ld Sr. DR placed reliance on the orders of the authorities below and submitted only submitting Form 16, TDS certificate is not sufficient when the revenue has not receiving TDS amount from the deductee therefore, the ground of assessee may kindly be dismissed.

6. On careful consideration of the above submission, at the very outset, we note that the identical facts and circumstances on identical issue was placed for adjudication before Honble Honble Delhi High Court in the case of Sanjay Sudan Vs. ACIT (supra) their lordship by referring section 205 of the Act and CBDT instruction dated 01.06.2015 (supra) held that the revenue cannot adjust withheld tax which has not been deposited by the deductor/ employer in the Central Govt account, against refund due and payable to the assessee-employee. In the present case also facts and circumstances are quite similar and identical therefore, respectfully following the proposition rendered by the Honble jurisdictional High Court in the Case of Sanjay Sudan (supra) , the sole grievance/ ground of the assessee are allowed and AO is directed to allow the claim of assessee in respect of TDS amounting to Rs. 2475000/-deducted by the employer M/s. Texel Export Pvt Ltd.

7. In the result, the appeal of the assessee is allowed.

Order pronounced in the open court on 21/07/2023.
A Longview resident  who has been removed from two Longview City Council meetings for verbal interruptions  has sued the city, saying the city has violated his right to free speech.

Jason Still filed the lawsuit last week in the federal Western District of Washington court. A frequent and outspoken presence at City Council meetings over the last two years, Still alleges the city censored and intimidated him when he was kicked out of City Hall for speaking during times city officials says public speaking is not allowed.

The lawsuit, which asks for $250,000 in damages, alleges the city infringed on Stills First Amendment rights by limiting his speech during a public meeting. The suit also claims Stills treatment by the Longview police officers violated his 14th Amendment rights to due process.

Plaintiff seeks a declaration and/or decree stating that (the citys) policies are illegal and that its agencies should refrain from threats and other action intended to restrict members of the public from exercising First Amendment rights at City Council or other public meetings, the lawsuit states.

Longview City Manager Kris Swanson said the city has received the lawsuit and has no further comment.

What happened

During the council meeting on April 14, 2022, footage shows Still interrupted Mayor MaryAlice Wallis to ask about follow-up to constituent comments, the time when the city manager may address issues raised at previous meetings.

The agenda item typically follows constituency comments, in which residents may address the council on any subject they like. Still did speak during that portion of the agenda that night.

After being told there was no planned follow-up that night, Still continued to insist he be allowed to speak from the audience. Wallis told Still to stop interrupting before directing Longview police Chief Robert Huhta to talk to Still.

Huhta talked to Still inside and outside the council chambers before Still eventually left the building. Their conversations were not recorded as part of the public meeting.

Still was ejected again from a council meeting on June 22, 2023. During the public hearing on the creation of a city metropolitan parks district, Councilwoman Hillary Strobel asked Still to not hold a side conversation in the audience during the council discussion.

After a contentious back-and-forth between Still, Strobel and Wallis, Still was approached by Longview Police Department Capt. Branden McNew, and the two left the room. The lawsuit claims McNew grabbed Stills arm to remove him from the building, but the exchange was not captured on the meeting recording.

Stills complaint alleges that in both instances, Longview officers told Still he could be charged with disorderly conduct if he did not leave the building. Neither interaction led to Still being arrested or charged.

In a warning letter sent to the city by Stills attorney prior to filing the lawsuit, Still also asked for a public apology and the reinstatement of the city manager follow-up as an agenda item, which the city discontinued in May 2022.

The law

Washington state law requires public bodies like a city council to accept public comment at their meetings but allows for restrictions to maintain order.

The state code about interruptions to meetings allows governments to stop comments when not recognized by the governing body to speak. The law requiring public comment also carves out the ability for jurisdictions to place limitations on the timing and manner of public speech, among other limits.

Nothing in this section diminishes the authority of governing bodies to deal with interruptions  or requires a governing body to accept public comment that renders orderly conduct of the meeting unfeasible, the states public comment law states.
The U.S. Forest Service reported Sunday evening that hundreds of lightning strikes late last week spurred more than 45 fires across the Gifford Pinchot National Forest.

A storm drifted through the southern Washington overnight Thursday and into Friday morning, blasting about 1,500 lightning strikes in the region. This weather event, coupled with strong wind and dry conditions, prompted the National Weather Service in Portland to issue Red Flag Warning for chunks of the Columbia River Gorge, Mount St. Helens area and beyond.

In the Gifford Pinchot National Forest, fires sparked, which is expected  to an extent. Gala Miller, Forest Service public affairs specialist, said the number of fires within the forest is unusual.

This is new ground for many of us, she said.

Thirty-five fires are burning in the Cowlitz Valley Ranger District, the northern most portion of the Gifford Pinchot, according to the Forest Service.

Two of these fires are burning in South Fork and Grassy Mountain, outside of Packwood and Randle in eastern Lewis County, and are considered high priority because of the nearby towns. The South Fork Fire is larger than 15 acres and Grassy Mountain is at least 6 acres.

The Adams Fork Campground Fire was fully contained on Monday, Miller said, and the Carlton Ridge Fire is staffed with firefighters. Several unnamed fires continue to grow elsewhere in the Cowlitz Valley Ranger District, growing between 15 and 20 acres.

Further south, 13 fires burned in the Mount St. Helens and Mt. Adams Ranger districts. Five fires combined in the Snagtooth Mountain area, forming one conflagration that is now estimated to have spread across more than 200 acres. Responders placed road barriers on Forest Road 93 to help crews haul in fire suppression equipment.

No evacuations are in place and no structures have burned. Officials ask the public to avoid the forest until crews contain the fires.

Miller said the Forest Service was working to create a map of all the new fires, which could be released late Monday afternoon.

The Northwest Interagency Coordination Center said there were six uncontained larger fires currently burning in Washington and 12 fires in Oregon.

A complex incident management team flew in from the Rocky Mountains on Monday, Spokeswoman Carol Connolly said, to take the lead on managing the array of fires in Gifford Pinchot.

Some of the fires they have out there are really inaccessible, Connolly said. Part of what that team is trying to look at is how to get resources into the really deep and rugged terrain areas.

Whether the current fire season is worse than last years is up for debate. Connolly said there were 60 large fires in the Pacific Northwest this year, compared to 49 fires at this point in 2022, but that significantly fewer acres have been destroyed.

The other recent wildfire that hit Cowlitz County this month as on Cottonwood Island, which grew to 1.5 acres before it was contained by the Washington Department of Natural Resources on Aug. 15.

Quality journalism doesn't happen without your help Support local news coverage and the people who report it by subscribing to The Daily News.

For current fire updates and restrictions, visit www.fs.usda.gov/detail/giffordpinchot/alerts-notices. The Forest Services fire information phone line is 360-497-1111.

Daily News reporter Brennen Kauffman contributed to this story.
Today at Next 23, Google Cloud announced a series of new customers, partners, and product innovations to help every business, government, and user benefit from generative AI and leading cloud technologies.

We are in an entirely new era of cloud, fueled by generative AI, said Thomas Kurian, CEO, Google Cloud. Our focus is on putting gen AI tools into the hands of everyone across the organizationfrom IT, to operations, to security, to the board room. As the industrys most open cloud, our goal is to help companies use AI and other cloud technologies to streamline their operations, increase productivity, and create entirely new lines of business.

Customer momentum around the world

Organizations across industries and around the world are choosing Google Cloud to digitally transform, and this year weve shared stories from Culture Amp, Deutsche Borse, eDreams ODIGEO, Government of Singapore, HSBC, IHOP, IPG Mediabrands, John Lewis Partnership, The Knot Worldwide, Macquarie Bank, Mayo Clinic, Priceline, Shopify, U.S. Steel, and Wendys. Today, we are announcing new or expanded relationships with The Estee Lauder Companies, FOX Sports, GE Appliances, General Motors, HCA Healthcare, and more.

Innovative gen AI startups, like Replit, Typeface, Jasper, and more, are increasingly choosing to build on Google Cloud. In fact, today more than half of all funded gen AI startups  including companies like Contextual, CoRover, Elemental Cognition, Fiddler, and Quora are Google Cloud customers. This includes 70% of gen AI unicorns, like AI21, Anthropic, Cohere, Runway, and others.

New infrastructure and tools to help customers

The advanced capabilities and broad applications that make gen AI so revolutionary demand the most sophisticated and capable infrastructure. Today, Google Cloud announced key infrastructure advancements to help customers, including:

Cloud TPUv5e : This is Google Clouds most cost-efficient, versatile, and scalable purpose-built AI accelerator to date. Now, customers can use a single Cloud TPU platform to run both large-scale AI training and inferencing.

: This is Google Clouds most cost-efficient, versatile, and scalable purpose-built AI accelerator to date. Now, customers can use a single Cloud TPU platform to run both large-scale AI training and inferencing. A3 VMs with NVIDIA H100 GPU : A3 VMs powered by NVIDIAs H100 GPU will be generally available next month, enabling organizations to achieve three times better training performance over prior generation A2.

: A3 VMs powered by NVIDIAs H100 GPU will be generally available next month, enabling organizations to achieve three times better training performance over prior generation A2. GKE Enterprise : This enables multi-cluster horizontal scaling required for the most demanding, mission-critical AI/ML workloads.

: This enables multi-cluster horizontal scaling required for the most demanding, mission-critical AI/ML workloads. Cross-Cloud Network : This is a global networking platform that helps customers connect and secure applications across clouds. It is open, workload-optimized, and offers ML-powered security to deliver zero trust.

: This is a global networking platform that helps customers connect and secure applications across clouds. It is open, workload-optimized, and offers ML-powered security to deliver zero trust. Google Distributed Cloud (GDC): GDC is designed to meet the unique demands of organizations that want to run workloads at the edge or in their data centers. The GDC portfolio will bring AI to the edge, with Vertex AI integrations and a new managed offering of AlloyDB Omni on GDC Hosted.

Vertex AI platform gets even better

On top of Google Clouds world-class infrastructure, the company delivers a comprehensive AI platformVertex AIthat enables customers to build, deploy, and scale machine learning models. Customers have access to more than 100 foundation models, including third-party and popular open-source versions, as well as industry-specific models like Sec-PaLM 2 for cybersecurity and Med-PaLM 2 for healthcare and life sciences. New innovations announced include:

Vertex AI Search and Conversation : Now generally available, the tools enable organizations to create Search and Chat applications using their data in just minutes, with minimal coding and enterprise-grade management and security built in.

Now generally available, the tools enable organizations to create Search and Chat applications using their data in just minutes, with minimal coding and enterprise-grade management and security built in. PaLM 2, Imagen and Codey Upgrades : This includes updating PaLM 2 to 32k context windows so enterprises can easily process longer form documents like research papers and books.

: This includes updating PaLM 2 to 32k context windows so enterprises can easily process longer form documents like research papers and books. Tools for tuning : For PaLM 2 and Codey, Google Cloud is making adapter tuning generally available, and introducing a new method for Imagen, called Style Tuning, so enterprises can create images aligned to brand guidelines with a small amount of reference images.

: For PaLM 2 and Codey, Google Cloud is making adapter tuning generally available, and introducing a new method for Imagen, called Style Tuning, so enterprises can create images aligned to brand guidelines with a small amount of reference images. New models : Google Cloud is announcing availability of Llama 2 and Code Llama from Meta, and Technology Innovative Institutes Falcon LLM, a popular open-source model, as well as pre-announcing Claude 2 from Anthropic. Google Cloud will be the only cloud provider offering both adapter tuning and RLHF for Llama 2.

: Google Cloud is announcing availability of Llama 2 and Code Llama from Meta, and Technology Innovative Institutes Falcon LLM, a popular open-source model, as well as pre-announcing Claude 2 from Anthropic. Google Cloud will be the only cloud provider offering both adapter tuning and RLHF for Llama 2. Vertex AI extensions : Developers can access, build, and manage extensions that deliver real-time information, incorporate company data, and take action on the users behalf.

: Developers can access, build, and manage extensions that deliver real-time information, incorporate company data, and take action on the users behalf. Digital Watermarking on Vertex AI : Powered by Google DeepMind SynthID, this is a state-of-the art technology that embeds the watermark directly into the image of pixels, making it invisible to the human eye and difficult to tamper with.

: Powered by Google DeepMind SynthID, this is a state-of-the art technology that embeds the watermark directly into the image of pixels, making it invisible to the human eye and difficult to tamper with. Colab Enterprise: This managed service combines the ease-of-use of Googles Colab notebooks with enterprise-level security and compliance capabilities, helping data scientists accelerate AI workflows.

From the beginning, Google Cloud designed Vertex AI to give users full control and segregation of their data, code and IP. User prompts and data, as well as user inputs at inference time, are not used to improve our models and are not accessible to other customers.

Duet AI in Workspace and Google Cloud

Google Cloud unveiled Duet AI at I/O in May, introducing powerful new features across Workspace and showcasing developer features such as code and chat assistance in Google Cloud. Today, Google Cloud is making Duet AI in Google Workspace generally available, while expanding the preview capabilities of Duet AI in Google Cloud, with general availability coming later this year.

Workspace is the worlds most popular productivity tool, with more than 3 billion users and more than 10 million paying customers who rely on it every day to get things done. With the introduction of Duet AI just a few months ago, Workspace delivered a number of features to make users more productive, like helping write and refine content in Gmail and Google Docs, create original images in Google Slides, turn ideas into action and data into insights with Google Sheets, foster more meaningful connections in Google Meet, and more. New enhancements announced include:

Duet AI in Google Meet: Duet AI will take notes during video calls, send meeting summaries, and even automatically translate captions in 18 languages. Duet AI in Meet also today unveiled studio look, studio lighting, and studio sound.

Duet AI will take notes during video calls, send meeting summaries, and even automatically translate captions in 18 languages. Duet AI in Meet also today unveiled studio look, studio lighting, and studio sound. Duet AI in Google Chat: Users can chat directly with Duet AI to ask questions about their content, get a summary of documents shared in a space, and catch up on missed conversations.

Beyond Workspace, Duet AI can now provide AI assistance across a wide range of Google Cloud products and servicesas a coding assistant to help developers code faster, as an expert adviser to help operators quickly troubleshoot application and infrastructure issues, as a data analyst to provide quick and better insights, and as a security adviser to recommend best practices to help prevent cyber threats. Duet AI in Google Cloud announcements include advancements for:

Software development: Duet AI provides expert assistance across the entire software development lifecycle, enabling developers to stay in flow-state longer by minimizing context switching to help them be more productive. In addition to code completion and code generation, it can assist with code refactoring and building APIs using simple natural language prompts.

Duet AI provides expert assistance across the entire software development lifecycle, enabling developers to stay in flow-state longer by minimizing context switching to help them be more productive. In addition to code completion and code generation, it can assist with code refactoring and building APIs using simple natural language prompts. Application and infrastructure operations: Operators can chat with Duet AI in natural language across a number of services directly in the Google Cloud Console to quickly retrieve how to information about infrastructure configuration, deployment best practices, and expert recommendations on cost and performance optimization.

Operators can chat with Duet AI in natural language across a number of services directly in the Google Cloud Console to quickly retrieve how to information about infrastructure configuration, deployment best practices, and expert recommendations on cost and performance optimization. Data Analytics: Duet AI in BigQuery provides contextual assistance for writing SQL queries as well as Python code, generates full functions and code blocks, auto-suggests code completions and explains SQL statements in natural language, and can generate recommendations based on your schema and metadata.

Duet AI in BigQuery provides contextual assistance for writing SQL queries as well as Python code, generates full functions and code blocks, auto-suggests code completions and explains SQL statements in natural language, and can generate recommendations based on your schema and metadata. Accelerating and modernizing databases: Duet AI in Cloud Spanner, AlloyDB and Cloud SQL, helps generate code to structure, modify, or query data using natural language.

Duet AI in Cloud Spanner, AlloyDB and Cloud SQL, helps generate code to structure, modify, or query data using natural language. Security Operations: Duet AI is also coming to security products including Chronicle Security Operations, Mandiant Threat Intelligence, and Security Command Center, which can empower security professionals to more efficiently prevent threats, reduce toil in security workflows, and uplevel security talent.

Duet AI was designed using Googles comprehensive approach to help protect customers security and privacy, as well as Googles AI principles. With Duet AI, your data is your data. User code, user inputs to Duet AI, and recommendations generated by Duet AI will not be used to train any shared models nor used to develop any products.

Simplify analytics at scale with a unified data and AI foundation

Data sits at the center of gen AI, which is why Google Cloud is bringing new capabilities to Googles Data and AI Cloud that will help unlock new insights and boost productivity for data teams. In addition to the launch of Duet AI, which assists data engineers and data analysts across BigQuery, Looker, Spanner, Dataplex, and Google Clouds database migration tools, other important announcements include:

BigQuery Studio : A single interface for data engineering, analytics, and predictive analysis, BigQuery Studio helps increase efficiency for data teams.

: A single interface for data engineering, analytics, and predictive analysis, BigQuery Studio helps increase efficiency for data teams. AlloyDB AI : An integral part of AlloyDB, our PostgreSQL-compatible database service, AlloyDB AI offers an integrated set of capabilities for easily building GenAI apps including high-performance and vector queries.

: An integral part of AlloyDB, our PostgreSQL-compatible database service, AlloyDB AI offers an integrated set of capabilities for easily building GenAI apps including high-performance and vector queries. New Data Cloud Partners: Partners, like Confluent, DataRobot, Dataiku, Datastax, Elastic, MongoDB, Neo4j, Redis, SingleStore, and Starburst are all launching new capabilities to help customers accelerate and enhance gen AI development with data.

Addressing top security challenges

Google Cloud is the only leading security provider that brings together the essential combination of frontline intelligence and expertise, a modern security operations platform, and a trusted cloud foundation, all infused with the power of gen AI, to help drive the security outcomes customers are looking to achieve. Today, Google Cloud announced:

Mandiant Hunt for Chronicle : This service integrates the latest insights into attacker behavior from Mandiants frontline experts with Chronicle Security Operations ability to quickly analyze and search security data, helping customers gain elite-level support without the burden of hiring, tooling, and training.

This service integrates the latest insights into attacker behavior from Mandiants frontline experts with Chronicle Security Operations ability to quickly analyze and search security data, helping customers gain elite-level support without the burden of hiring, tooling, and training. Agentless vulnerability scanning: These posture management capabilities in Security Command Center detect operating system, software, and network vulnerabilities on Compute Engine virtual machines.

These posture management capabilities in Security Command Center detect operating system, software, and network vulnerabilities on Compute Engine virtual machines. Network security advancements: Cloud Firewall Plus adds advanced threat protection and next-generation firewall (NGFW) capabilities to our distributed firewall service, powered by Palo Alto Networks; and Network Service Integration Manager allows network admins to easily integrate trusted third-party NGFW virtual appliances for traffic inspection.

Expanding our ecosystem

Google Clouds ecosystem is already delivering real-world value for businesses with gen AI, and bringing new capabilities, powered by Google Cloud, to millions of users worldwide. Partners are also using Vertex AI to build their own features for customers  including Box, Canva, Salesforce, UKG, and many others. New partner announcements include:
Hong Kong: Putting aquatic imports to the test

In response to the Japanese Governments plan to discharge nuclear-contaminated water at Fukushima Nuclear Power Station, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government recently prohibited the import of aquatic products originating from 10 metropolises or prefectures in Japan.

Meanwhile, aquatic products imported from other parts of Japan are subject to temporary inspections and testing.

Food items imported by air, such as fish and shellfish, are first sent to the Airport Food Inspection Offices.

Health Inspectors or Food Control Officers from the Centre for Food Safety (CFS), under the Food & Environmental Hygiene Department, then use hand-held survey meters to measure the radiation levels of the products. They also take food samples for radiation testing, using the Contamination Monitoring System at the airport laboratory. The process takes approximately 20 to 30 minutes.

Centre for Food Safety Food Import & Export Section Superintendent Leung Chi-fai explained that if the test result is satisfactory, clearance procedures are completed and the consignment is released. However, if the result is unsatisfactory, the centre will mark and seal the products concerned for further testing by the Government Laboratory.

Additionally, aquatic products imported by sea route from Japan are also subject to radiation testing. The CFS publishes the radiation test results of Japanese imported food samples on its thematic website every working day.

This story has been published on: 2023-08-29. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article.
Breathing new life into Beijing Central Axis with digital tools

13:07, August 29, 2023 By Shi Fang ( People's Daily

Photo shows the Palace Museum in Beijing. (People's Daily Online/Ding Bangxue)

In Beijing, there is a north-south axis known as the Beijing Central Axis, or Zhongzhouxian, running through the city.

First created in the Yuan Dynasty (1271-1368), the 7.8-kilometer central axis serves the function of a "book spine", forming a unique Beijing city pattern of bilateral symmetry and solemnity.

It stretches from the Yongding Gate in the south of the city and the Drum Tower and Bell Tower in the north, crossing the Wanning Bridge, the Jingshan Mountain, the Palace Museum, the Duanmen Gate, Tian'anmen Square and its adjacent areas, the Zhengyang Gate, and the street remains of the southern section of the central axis.

The Imperial Ancestral Temple, the Altar of Land and Grain, the Temple of Heaven, and the Temple of Agriculture sit symmetrically in the west and east wings of the central axis.

As the best preserved core area of the old city of Beijing, it contains the essence of ancient architecture of Beijing, and carries on the memorable moments of the Chinese civilization.

It connects many historical sites, including 3 World Heritage Sites and 11 major historical and cultural sites protected at the national level, which embody the great creativity and outstanding talent of the Chinese nation in urban planning and construction.

Today, with the rapid development of science and technology, the ancient central axis is better protected and inherited, blossoming with dazzling brilliance.

As night fell, in front of the Yongding Gate, a vehicle equipped with a laser modeling system slowly drove by, meticulously measuring and recording details about the Beijing Central Axis roadway and neighboring structures.

People visit the Temple of Heaven in Beijing. (People's Daily Online/Liu Xianguo)

At daybreak, surveying and mapping engineers had already positioned equipment before a hall of the Temple of Agriculture, collecting statistics and portraying each facet.

The greatest feature of the Beijing Central Axis is that it has an undulating layout and maintains mirror symmetry on its east and west sides, said Tao Yingchun, director of the big data center of the Beijing Institute of Surveying and Mapping, adding that it is impossible for a visitor to get an overview of the entire central axis at any one heritage site.

However, digital products can break through the limitations of time and space, allowing people to appreciate the unique charm of the central axis, Tao noted.

In 2020, the Beijing Institute of Surveying and Mapping established a technical team of nearly 200 members to carry out ultra-fine surveying and 3D modeling for heritage elements along the central axis. For the first time, the central axis was digitally duplicated with digital twin technology.

The team has collected over 1TB of data, including information about the main roads within the heritage area, Tian'anmen Square and its adjacent areas, the Yongding Gate, the Drum Tower and Bell Tower, and the Temple of Agriculture.

So far, the first phase of the digital twin project has been completed. The final digital twin of the central axis will provide a complete spatial database for monitoring, managing, protecting and utilizing the central axis heritage.

"From paper maps to digital maps and real-scene 3D products, our surveying and mapping of the central axis is becoming more and more refined. Overlaying historical and present images through modern technologies, we can see that the central axis has been 'growing' all along." said Tao.

As the sunshade curtains lowered and the lights dimmed, the first-floor central archway of the Drum Tower was turned into an "immersive theater," where visitors could experience the changes of the central axis through shifts in light and shadow.

Photo shows a night view of the Zhengyang Gate in Beijing. (People's Daily Online/Zhang Jun)

This was a digital light show that utilized projection distortion correction technology and spatial sound zoning to combine music, drum beats, and images with the majestic architectural space, fully demonstrating the architectural beauty of the Drum Tower and presenting cultural relics and historical sites in a brand new way.

"The history of Drum Tower and Bell Tower is an epitome of Beijing's urban history. It carries warm and intimate memories for urban residents," said He Yan, leader of an exhibition team for the Beijing Central Axis. The team collected over 300 old photos of the Drum Tower and Bell Tower from different periods of time, along with various sounds related to the central axis, to evoke citizens' cherished memories of old Beijing.

The archway of the Drum Tower once served as a gift shop. After vacating and renovating work, the time-reporting facility of the Yuan, Ming and Qing dynasties (1271-1911) restored its original appearance.

Along the central axis, a series of historic buildings have been repaired and renovated, adding to the dignified and majestic old-city style of the city.

The Zhengyang Gate is an important heritage site along the central axis. During the restoration process of the gate's Arrow Tower, great efforts were made to retain as much historic authenticity as possible. The restoration kept the same materials, forms, artisanal techniques, and methods that were originally used, in every detail.

"We for the first time applied intelligent construction technologies in ancient building renovation," said Li Wanbo, head of the ancient construction division of Beijing Construction Engineering Group No.6 Construction Engineering Co., Ltd.

Using architectural information modeling, 3D scanning, panoramic imaging and other technologies, engineers can make more science-based renovation plans, Li said.

"For example, if a part of a building's wall is bulged, it is very difficult to determine the cause by the naked eye. A 'CT scan' allows us to clearly see the 'health status' of the cultural relics, and precisely implement 'minimally invasive surgery' on the damaged part, achieving minimum intervention for the ancient building renovation," Li explained.

A child experiences virtual drumming at an exhibition held at the Drum Tower in Beijing. (People's Daily Online/Du Jianpo)

The Zhengyang Gate tower is one of the major stops for Beijing swifts, which fly from Africa to Beijing every year to nest and breed. The scene of Beijing swifts flying around the Zhengyang Gate has lasted for over 600 years.

When the Arrow Tower of the Zhengyang Gate was renovated, these swifts were carefully protected.

"Ancient architectures are tangible cultural heritage, and swifts are living 'cultural heritage.' Both of them need protection. We waited for the swifts to fly away before erecting scaffolding to minimize disturbance to them," said Guan Zhanxiu, director of the heritage conservation center of the Beijing Central Axis.

The Wanning Bridge, built in the Yuan Dynasty, is at the intersection of the central axis and the Beijing-Hangzhou Grand Canal.

A mobile app has been developed to guide tourists to the site with augmented reality. In the app, a cute "water dragon" would lead tourists into the bustling market, learn kite-making techniques and watch how Beijing-style Qipao, a traditional wearing of Chinese women, is made.

This app is a part of a "digital central axis" project built by the culture and tourism bureau of Beijing's Xicheng district. Relying on large-scale 3D map construction, high-precision spatial computation and other technologies by Beijing-based tech firm Hereto, the project digitally restores historical scenes and disappeared architectures along the central axis, providing the public with an immersive experience.

"The Beijing Central Axis embodies concepts such as centrality, harmony, uprightness, and unity of man and nature," said Chen Mingjie, director of the Beijing Municipal Cultural Heritage Bureau.

"We must use digital technology and other means to turn the ancient into the fashionable, make the profound Chinese culture more accessible, interpret the value of the central axis, and protect, inherit and utilize this unique cultural heritage," Chen added.

(Web editor: Chang Sha, Liang Jun)
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, August 29)  Netizens are divided over actor and engineer Slater Young's latest real estate project dubbed, "The Rise at Monterrazas," which will be built beside a mountain in Cebu.

In his vlog uploaded last Thursday, Young said it took them 300 different versions before coming up with an idea of a Banaue Rice Terraces-inspired condominium.

"We got inspired by working with nature and the biggest inspiration for us was how us Filipinos worked with nature in the past," he said.

"We got inspired by the Banaue Rice Terraces. So instead of a normal building which is typically straight up and down. We kind of worked with the terrain. We just pushed everything towards the terrain and just followed the flow of the mountain," Young added.

The engineer also said he wanted the mountainside project to be "as sustainable as possible."

Young's project was quickly met with criticisms on social media, pointing out serious environmental risks of the soon-to-be-built condominium.

"The 'Banaue inspired' design of Slater Young is breathtaking, but the irony of having a green architecture agenda while destroying the natural environment. In exchange for what? A luxury condo hotel. It's a no for me," a social media user said.

"I hope people who are advocating against Sierra Madre being destroyed are also seeing the picture regarding Slater Young's project. This isn't something people should take lightly considering Cebu was greatly devastated during Odette," another user said.

Some netizens, however, praised Young for his innovative agricultural design.

"A smart, genius, unique, and brilliant idea on this project first in the Philippines to have this condo design on the mountain," a Facebook user said.

"Magnificent architectural design, so proud of this creative Filipino behind this project. Very sophisticated," another user wrote.

Young has yet to comment on the issue.
This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility:

A wind sensor prototype in Alaska gathers data. Credit: Lawrence Tsai

Typically, the primary indicator of a burgeoning wildfire in California is a plume of hazy, gray smoke wafting through the air, seen by satellites or cameras. The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, or CalFire, is alerted, and mitigation and containment efforts ensue.

But Zhaodan Kong, a professor in the Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering at the University of California, Davis, thinks that living by the idea "where there's smoke, there's fire," gets firefighters to the problem too late, after it has already spread and is difficult to contain.

"Right now, the way that it works is you see a fire and then you respond," Kong said. "It's very passive, very reactive."

Instead, Kong, whose research in artificial intelligence and autonomy includes unmanned aerial vehicles, or UAVs, believes an integrated system of technologies to detect fires before they get to a smoking point could be game changing, potentially preventing widespread wildfire damage.

Sensors and sensibility

The detection would start on the ground with internet-connected sensors placed in strategic locations where wildfire events have occurred or are likely to occur (determined by CalFire). These palm-sized sensors, developed by Anthony Wexler, distinguished professor in the Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering and director of the UC Davis Air Quality Research Center, measure temperature, humidity and wind speed to determine which areas could be at higher risk of a wildfire event.

"The things that cause a high wildfire-risk situation are high temperature, low humidity and high wind speed," said Wexler, who has been working on these sensors for nearly a decade. "Temperature and humidity are relatively uniform over large geographical areas, but wind speed changes dramatically from place to place in California because of the topography."

Once the triple threatsuper dry soil, high temperature and strong windis detected, UAVs would then be sent out with payloads of cameras and chemical sensors to sweep the area for further indications of a fire, including elevated rates of particulate matter and carbon dioxide in the air, and then report any findings to CalFire.

"Chemical sensing is more sensitive than visual sensing," Wexler said. "If you walk around your neighborhood and someone's burning wood in their fireplace, you don't see anything, but you smell it."

For these reconnaissance missions, Kong's lab is building rotorcraft equipped with navigation systems, sensors and cameras. While one of the benefits of using rotorcraft is that they can land and take off from anywhere, one of the main challenges is a maximum flight duration of about 30 minutes. To combat this issue, Kong's lab is developing a hybrid aircraft that can land and take off vertically like a rotorcraft, but also has qualities of a fixed-wing aircraft that can cruise at high altitudes for hours.

Catching fires

While many fire departments are using drones to drop water and fire retardants onto blazing fires, they may hesitate to accept the use of UAVs as a fire-detection tool. Cameras, satellites and manned aircraft are already crucial for tracking the spread of wildfires and determining the direction and speed with which they may be moving. Why add UAVs?

Researcher Zhaodan Kong and his team are developing a hybrid aircraft that can land and take off vertically like a rotorcraft, but also has qualities of a fixed-wing aircraft that can cruise at high altitudes for hours. Credit: UC Davis

The current detection system, Kong and Wexler said, has gaps to fill. The 1,000 cameras set up on towers throughout the state and run by AlertCalifornia can only see a fire when it is within their field of view. Additionally, NASA's fire-sensing algorithms scan for fires from satellites more than 500 miles above the Earth, making it difficult to determine a fire's exact location and size.

By the time a fire is caught by these visual sensors and the information is relayed to the proper authorities, it has likely spread to a point where it might be difficult to contain. A manned aircraft still must fly over the fire and assess the situation before action is taken.

If UAVs are used to fly over wildfires, firefighters wouldn't have to put their lives in danger in that capacity, Kong said. If the drone is overtaken by wildfire smoke and crashes into a tree or mountain, it's just piece of technology, not a human life.

"Some of these wildfires are inside very challenging terrain, like if they're inside a very deep valley and you have to fly the aircraft into that, it can be pretty dangerous," said Kong. "We're hoping to demonstrate that using UAVs can dramatically improve their safety."

After the smoke has (mostly) cleared

Using UAVs to detect fires could also dramatically improve the health of firefighters and people in affected areas. Numerous medical studies link wildfire smokewhich includes particulate matter, volatile organic compounds, carbon monoxide and other harmful chemicalsto adverse health effects including declines in lung function, inflammation and cardiovascular issues in firefighters. It has also been linked to decreased birthweight and preterm births, increased emergency room visits for pneumonia and acute bronchitis, and higher risk of death from COVID-19 and cardiovascular disease in communities where wildfire smoke has been prevalent.

Extreme wildfire events can also cause an extraordinary amount of damage. A 2020 paper analyzing the economic impact of California's 2018 wildfires, reportedly "the deadliest and among the most destructive of any year in California history up to that time," found $148.5 billion in damage, including 22,582 structures destroyed, caused by the 8,527 fires that burned 1.9 million acres that year.

Wildfires are also part of a climate-warming feedback loop. Environmental changes like increased drought, hotter temperatures and lower humidity are a breeding ground for a greater number of fires that last longer and are more intense. Those fires create greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution, contributing to climate change, and the cycle starts over.

Working better together

Kong, Wexler and other researchers know the damage done by wildfires cannot be undone, nor can wildfires be completely prevented. But knowing that we have to live with wildfires, creating this network of early detection could alert CalFire and other firefighting agencies to fires earlier so they can begin containment measures before the fires rage out of control, hopefully reducing the damage and deaths caused by them.

The two researchers, along with Jiawei Zhang, assistant professor in the UC Davis Department of Computer Science, and Avesta Sasan, associate professor in the Department of Electric and Computer Engineering, recently proposed their ideas for early wildfire detection to the National Science Foundation and California Climate Investments.

"We are going to use the ground sensor network to predict the high risk, and then the UAVs to patrol the area to find the fire, and then we are going to alert the authorities and fly out," said Kong. "It has to be satellites, watchtowers, UAVs, manned aircraft, ground sensors, all the mechanisms working together in order to have a system to predict and detect wildfires."
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:

Meta says that online influence campaigns linked to China and Russia appear to be learning from one another as they strive to evade defenses at major social networks such as Facebook and Instagram.

Meta on Tuesday said it purged thousands of Facebook accounts that were part of a widespread online Chinese spam operation trying to covertly boost China and criticize the West.

The campaign, which became known as "Spamouflage", was active across more than 50 platforms and forums including Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, YouTube and X, formerly known as Twitter, according to a Meta threat report.

"We assess that it's the largest, though unsuccessful, and most prolific covert influence operation that we know of in the world today," said Meta Global Threat Intelligence Lead Ben Nimmo.

"And we've been able to link Spamouflage to individuals associated with Chinese law enforcement."

More that 7,700 Facebook accounts along with 15 Instagram accounts were jettisoned in what Meta described as the biggest ever single takedown action at the tech giant's platforms.

"For the first time we've been able to tie these many clusters together to confirm that they all go to one operation," Nimmo said.

The network typically posted praise for China and its Xinjiang province and criticisms of the United States, Western foreign policies, and critics of the Chinese government including journalists and researchers, the Meta report says.

The operation originated in China and its targets included Taiwan, the United States, Australia, Britain, Japan, and global Chinese-speaking audiences.

Facebook or Instagram accounts or pages identified as part of the "large and prolific covert influence operation" were taken down for violating Meta rules against coordinated deceptive behavior on its platforms.

Meta's team said the network seemed to garner scant engagement, with viewer comments tending to point out bogus claims.

Clusters of fake accounts were run from various parts of China, with the cadence of activity strongly suggesting groups working from an office with daily job schedules, according to Meta.

'Doppelganger'

Some tactics used in China were similar to those of a Russian online deception network exposed in 2019, which suggested the operations might be learning from one another, according to Nimmo.

Meta's threat report also provided analysis of the Russian influence campaign called Doppelganger, which was first disrupted by the security team a year ago.

The core of the operation was to mimic websites of mainstream news outlets in Europe and post bogus stories about Russia's war on Ukraine, then try to spread them online, said Meta head of security policy Nathaniel Gleicher.

Companies involved in the campaign were recently sanctioned by the European Union.

Meta said Germany, France and Ukraine remained the most targeted countries overall, but that the operation had added the United States and Israel to its list of targets.

This was done by spoofing the domains of major news outlets, including the Washington Post and Fox News.

Gleicher described Doppelganger, which is intended to weaken support of Ukraine, as the largest and most aggressively persistent influence operation from Russia that Meta has seen since 2017.

 2023 AFP
In a strategic move aimed at strengthening consumer protection measures and bolstering the rapidly expanding cryptocurrency sector, South Korea has recently unveiled a comprehensive set of regulations. These regulations mandate cryptocurrency exchanges to establish substantial financial reserves as a means of mitigating potential risks and safeguarding user interests. The guidelines, outlined by the Korea Federation of Banks, will require all South Korean crypto exchanges to maintain a minimum reserve of 3 billion won (approximately $2.3 million), effective from September.

Dubbed as the Virtual Asset Real-Name Account Operation Guidelines, these new provisions mark a significant step forward in establishing a more secure environment for cryptocurrency users. One of the central requirements of these guidelines dictates that exchanges must maintain reserves equivalent to 30% of their average daily deposits. The primary purpose of this stipulation is to ensure that these platforms are well-prepared to navigate unforeseen events such as hacking incidents or system failures. By maintaining these reserves, exchanges can readily meet their financial obligations in the face of potential damages. Its noteworthy that the regulations also put a cap on these reserves, stipulating that they must not surpass 20 billion won.

Industry giants in the South Korean cryptocurrency landscape, including Upbit and Bithumb, have already signaled their commitment to complying with these stringent requirements. This proactive stance not only demonstrates their dedication to upholding regulatory standards but also underscores the collective responsibility of the industry toward enhancing user security.

The move to implement these new regulations comes as a response to the growing concerns surrounding the vulnerability of cryptocurrency exchanges to cyberattacks and technical glitches. Over the years, several high-profile hacking incidents have resulted in substantial financial losses for both exchanges and users. By establishing the minimum reserve requirements, South Korea aims to fortify the resilience of these platforms and instill greater confidence among investors and traders.

The announcement of these guidelines has been met with a mix of reactions from various stakeholders. Advocates of stricter regulations emphasize the potential long-term benefits for the cryptocurrency sector. They argue that by ensuring exchanges have adequate financial reserves, the industry can overcome challenges more effectively and minimize the impact of security breaches. Moreover, these regulations could potentially attract institutional investors who have been hesitant to enter the market due to concerns about safety and regulatory oversight.

On the other hand, critics have raised concerns about potential barriers these regulations might pose for smaller cryptocurrency exchanges. The requirement of holding a significant amount of reserves could strain their financial resources, potentially stifling innovation and competition in the sector. Some argue that a more balanced approach should be adopted, taking into account the diverse landscape of cryptocurrency exchanges.

To address these concerns, regulatory authorities have emphasized the importance of a consultative approach. The guidelines, while stringent, are designed to be adaptable and responsive to the evolving needs of the industry. The authorities have expressed a willingness to engage in open dialogues with cryptocurrency exchanges to ensure that the regulations strike the right balance between consumer protection and industry growth.

Looking ahead, the successful implementation of these regulations could set a precedent for other countries grappling with similar challenges in the cryptocurrency space. As the global adoption of cryptocurrencies continues to rise, governments and regulatory bodies are increasingly focused on creating frameworks that foster innovation while safeguarding users and investors.

In conclusion, South Koreas recent announcement of new regulations requiring cryptocurrency exchanges to maintain substantial financial reserves represents a significant stride toward enhancing consumer protection and fortifying the cryptocurrency sector. By imposing minimum reserve requirements and capping the upper limit, these guidelines aim to ensure exchanges readiness to navigate unexpected challenges. While the industrys major players have already shown their commitment to compliance, ongoing discussions between regulators and exchanges will be crucial to strike a balance that fosters growth while maintaining security and innovation in the cryptocurrency landscape.
The South Brazos County Emergency Services District 1 Fire Department has announced Mike Montgomery as the new fire chief. He is scheduled to start the week of Sept. 4.

With over 30 years of experience, Montgomery has made an impact in the Northwest Harris County area, and served with the Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service, according to a Monday press release.

Montgomery holds Texas Commission on Fire Protection certifications as Master Structure Firefighter, Master Fire Investigator, Master Fire Inspector, and NFPA 1041 Fire Instructor II

Montgomery is tasked with leading approximately 40 paid and volunteer members of South Brazos County ESD 1 Fire Department, which serves approximately 20,000 residents in a 110-square-mile area between the southern College Station city limits and the southern borders of Brazos County.
Tokyo (CNN)  A wave of online harassment and vitriol directed at Japanese people following the release of treated radioactive wastewater from Fukushima has sent tensions between Japan and China soaring, prompting Tokyo to summon the Chinese ambassador.

Chinas heavily censored internet exploded in outrage after Japan officially began releasing the wastewater on Thursday.

Several videos on social media show Chinese callers dialing the numbers of Japanese businesses and institutions, then shouting into the phone, Why do you release nuclear polluted water to the ocean?

The comments below the videos are full of users sharing numbers to call, and encouraging each other. I just called as well, one person wrote.

The mayor of Fukushima, Hiroshi Kohata, said on Saturday the citys town hall alone had received about 200 such harassment calls in two days. Many other locations around the city have received similar calls, he said, including elementary and junior high schools, restaurants, hotels and inns.

Many of them are from +86 (Chinas country code) and are in Chinese, he added in a Facebook post. In addition to the damage caused by the nuclear accident, Fukushima is also burdened with the aftermath. We demand that the government be informed of this situation as soon as possible and take action.

One seafood market in Fukushima prefecture received dozens of calls from Chinese numbers on Friday, according to Japanese public broadcaster NHK.

Japans foreign ministry said on Monday it had summoned the Chinese ambassador over the harassment calls, saying the incidents were extremely regrettable and worrisome.

It urged Beijing to take appropriate measures immediately to prevent the situation from escalating, and to avoid spreading inaccurate information about the wastewater release.

Its not just businesses inside Japan being targeted. Japanese institutions in China have also been harassed, said the foreign ministry, urging Beijing to ensure the safety of Japanese residents in China and Japanese diplomatic missions in China.

A stone was thrown into the grounds of a Japanese school in Qingdao, in Chinas Shandong province, on Thursday when the release began, according to NHK. The next day, several eggs were thrown at a Japanese school in Suzhou, in Chinas Jiangsu province.

No children were hurt in either case, and the schools have since stepped up their security, NHK reported.

The report did not identify the perpetrators or say whether they were motivated by concerns over Fukushima.

But the incidents have nevertheless contributed to the fear and anxiety among Japanese residents in China.

On Thursday as the wastewater release began, the Japanese embassy in China issued a warning to Japanese living in the country, warning them not to speak Japanese loudly when out in public, and to be cautious in your speech and behavior.

The embassy in Beijing has ramped up security and deployed more personnel around the building, NHK reported.

Chinas response, however, has been less than sympathetic.

On Monday, the Chinese embassy in Japan released a statement condemning the release once again, accusing Tokyo of causing unpredictable harm to human and marine health, denying that it had spread any misinformation  and claiming that it, too, had received harassment calls, but from Japanese numbers.

In an echo of the Japanese embassys statement, it urged Tokyo to protect the safety of Chinese residents in Japan.

When asked what measures China would take to address the harassment, a spokesperson for the Chinese Foreign Ministry said: China has always protected the safety and lawful interests of foreign nationals in China according to law.

Sushi diplomacy

The release of treated radioactive water from Fukushima prompted a swift and angry response from Chinese authorities, who on Thursday announced a ban on all seafood imports from Japan.

Many social media users have gone a step further by advocating a broader boycott of Japanese products. On Douyin, the Chinese version of TikTok, users have circulated lists of Japanese brands ranging from cosmetics to food and beverages, and urged people not to buy their products.

But some observers outside China say the explosive backlash in the country may be more politically driven than scientifically informed, and accuse Beijing of a double standard. Many countries, including China, release treated radioactive water from their own nuclear plants, sometimes at higher concentrations than in Fukushima.

This fact, however, is missing from online discussions in China. The few voices trying to explain the science behind the discharge have been censored and scrubbed from social media.

Contamination is scientifically not that serious, and Chinas own water release and other countries water releases are much more (concentrated) than the Japanese case, said Yasuhiro Matsuda, a professor of international politics at the University of Tokyos Institute for Advanced Studies on Asia.

He added that the discharge isnt a strategically important issue to China, the way national security is, so the furor may instead be an attempt by Beijing to gain political leverage. However, he said the social media attacks and public sentiment had ballooned beyond authorities control, becoming an all-out bashing of Japan.

Some supporters have taken to eating regional seafood in a show of solidarity.

South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol and Prime Minister Han Duck-soo ate a seafood lunch on Monday, the presidential office said, adding that sashimi and grilled mackerel were served for lunch at the office cafeteria.

Photos released by the office show government workers and media personnel feasting on seafood, though there were no such images of Yoon and Han.

Tokyo Governor Yuriko Koike tucked into a lunch of raw fish from Fukushima on Friday, a day after the discharge began, said an official from the metropolitan government  adding that it was to show support for the reconstruction of the damaged Tohoku region after the 2011 disaster.

The Tokyo metropolitan government served seafood from Fukushima in its staff cafeteria last week, with the menu featuring items such as fried sardines and grilled mackerel. Other prefectures are considering similar programs, with the Osaka governor proposing Fukushima seafood be served at all government cafeterias.

The US ambassador to Japan, Rahm Emanuel, is expected to visit a city in Fukushima this week, where he plans to eat locally caught fish to show support for the wastewater release, a US embassy official told CNN.

A fractious relationship

The tensions between China and Japan come against the backdrop of their historically fractious relationship, which dates back beyond World War II and includes a variety of maritime territorial disputes.

Chinese calls for boycotts of Japan are relatively frequent, breaking out whenever old grievances rear their heads or territorial disputes flare, experts say.

In 2012, trade relations sank to a low point when Japan nationalized a group of islands in the East China Sea claimed by both Tokyo and Beijing, fueling violent anti-Japanese protests across cities in China. The boycotts turned into violent attacks against Japanese-owned or branded factories in China as well as automakers and home appliance retailers.

There are similarities between the situation now and 2012, said Matsuda, including anger and dissatisfaction among the Chinese public, who face high unemployment rates, rising costs of living and slowing economic growth following the pandemic.

The Fukushima issue could simply be a trigger to release these frustrations, he said. However, he thought the current controversy was unlikely to spiral into the kinds of attacks and open street protests seen in 2012.

Still, the bilateral relationship looks to be under strain again, with China asking the head of a Japanese political party to postpone his planned visit this week.

The party head had hoped to meet Chinese leader Xi Jinping and hand over a personal letter from Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, Reuters reported, but Chinese authorities told the party on Saturday that the timing is not appropriate considering the current situation of Japan-China relations.

This story was first published on CNN.com, "Schools egged, businesses harassed: Japan suffers Chinese backlash over Fukushima release."
Danville Police Chief Scott Booth is the finalist for Roanoke's open chief position.

Residents will have a chance to meet Booth at a 6 p.m. Wednesday open house at Berglund Hall in the Berglund Center. The open house is the last step toward a formal job offer.

Booth has served as Danville's chief since 2018, but he's been featured in two other police chief searches over the last year.

Booth was previously a finalist for the police chief position in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, in January, but was not selected for the job.

Before that, he was a finalist for chief of police in Aurora, Colorado, in September 2022, but withdrew his name from consideration.

Booth has stayed relatively close to Virginia throughout his law enforcement career.

Booth got his start in law enforcement at the Richmond Police Department in 1996, according to a page on the Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services website.

In 2015, he began working for the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority in Washington, D.C.

"In July of 2017, he took a position with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security where he served as the Deputy Federal Security Director for the Charlotte, NC region, coordinating transportation security efforts for the Federal Government," according to Booth's page on the Virginia DCJS website.

Since 2020, Booth has been a member of the Virginia Law Enforcement Professional Standards Commission. He serves as the commission's vice chairman.

The Monday afternoon city press release announcing Booth and the open house stated that Booth "has a proven track-record of leading the Danville Police Department in community engagement and crime reduction."

Almost exactly a month ago, Booth received the Frederic Milton Thrasher Award, making him one of several Danville public servants to receive recognition from the National Gang Crime Research Center for their efforts to reduce gang-related violence.

Booth is the only Roanoke finalist who has moved forward to the community open house stage of the interview process, city Communications & Community Engagement Specialist Carol Corbin told The Roanoke Times Monday.

"I look forward to introducing Chief Booth to the community on Wednesday and completing the recruitment process so that he is able to join us as soon as practical," City Manager Bob Cowell said in the Monday afternoon press release announcing Booth as the finalist.

The city hasn't formally offered Booth the police chief job, yet, though  if that happens, it will come after Wednesday's open house.

An Aug. 9 press release from the city indicated that an offer to a candidate was expected by Sept. 1. That is still the case, Corbin confirmed Monday.

Danville Register & Bee reporter John Crane contributed to this report.
Gov. Glenn Youngkin will be in Henry County Wednesday to attend a press conference where whats been billed as a major economic development announcement will be made.

Mark Heath, president and CEO of the Martinsville-Henry County Economic Development Corporation sent notice of the event on Friday. Youngkin is expected to make the announcement at the Commonwealth Centre for Advanced Training (CCAT) at 870 Commonwealth Crossing Parkway in Ridgeway at 2 p.m.

Henry County Public Information Officer Brandon Martin followed shortly after Youngkins release with an announcement that the Henry County Board of Supervisors will have a special called meeting at CCAT at 1:30 p.m., prior to Younkins scheduled appearance.

Although nothing has been stated about what the announcement will entail, there has been excited anticipation about the prospects of Commonwealth Crossings latest development.

The development of Lot #2 is currently in the engineering and environmental phases, which includes gaining the appropriate permits needed to start the physical work, Henry County Administrator Dale Wagoner told the Bulletin on Friday. Once completed, Lot #2 will be a 200-acre site, with 157 acres suitable for building. It will be the only site in Virginia over 100 acres with all utilities and rail in place.

Wagoner said Henry County will eagerly welcome Youngkin to Henry County for a significant economic development announcement  an exciting boost for our community.
By 9:30 am, Monday, several hundred people had visited the Wellness Festival at the Nebraska State Fair.

Monday was Older Nebraskans Day.

Along with Wellness Festival, Older Nebraskans Day featured The Oak Ridge Boys in concert. A popular event at the state fair, the Oak Ridge Boys concert was sold out nearly two months before Mondays performance.

Another event featured for seniors was the popular TV program, "Backyard Farmer.

The Wellness Festival featured 25 vendors offering information, free items and treats.

The booths for the Wellness Festival were located outside the Heartland Events Center.

The Oak Ridge Boys afternoon concert was part of the Nebraska Lottery Concert Series.

Tabitha, a nonprofit organization that has provided senior care since 1886, sponsored the Wellness Festival.

Shelia Zelazny, director of business development for Tabitha, said the Wellness Festival provided an excellent opportunity for Tabitha, also known as Tabitha Health Care Services, to showcase its range of services for older residents.

Zelazny said Tabitha sponsoring the festival was a way to reach out to Nebraskans and connect with them.

"We are a local nonprofit born and raised in Nebraska, so we felt the most appropriate time to talk to Nebraskans would be at the older Nebraskans fair day," said Zelazny.

She said the Wellness Festival gives us an opportunity to really showcase all of our continuum of services, from our senior living facilities in Grand Island, Lincoln, and Crete, to our home health and senior care programs."

While Tabitha sponsored the Wellness Festival, the fair invited the vendors participating in the festival. Those vendors represented a variety of services that benefit seniors.

In addition to the wellness festival, Tabitha arranged for some of its patrons to attend the Oak Ridge Boys concert and organized a post-concert event featuring giveaways and information about their services.

The main goal of this sponsorship was to provide seniors in the area with information about available resources, Zelazny said.

She said the Wellness Festival is important when considering the growing population of older individuals, particularly the baby boomers.

Tabitha recognized the need for their services in Grand Island and the Central Nebraska region.

Tabitha opened its new 200,000-square-foot Senior Living Community at Prairie Commons early this year.

Zelazny said Grand Island has become a regional medical center, serving around 250,000 to 300,000 people throughout Central Nebraska.

As of 2023, the elderly population of Grand Island, aged 65 years and older is 14.0% of the total population. This is equivalent to 12,529 people. The elderly population is projected to grow to 15.4% by 2030.

Zelazny said Tabitha and the participants in the Wellness Festival hope to connect with more seniors and provide them with the necessary information to make informed decisions about their care.
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The best bang for your buck! This option enables you to purchase online 24/7 access and receive the Sunday, Tuesday & Thursday print edition at no additional cost * Print edition only available in our carrier delivery area. Allow up to 72 hours for delivery of your print edition to begin. To sign-up for EZ-Pay, call us at (903) 785-6901 or e-mail us at circulation@theparisnews.com. We will use the information you provide to change your current billing to EZ-PAY. Your current subscription delivery schedule will not be changed. No refunds for early cancellations. Remainder of early cancellation funds will be donated to Newspapers in Education.
Firefighters in Marion are better prepared to handle some medical emergencies thanks to the donation of nine automated external defibrillators by Heartland Regional Medical Center.

In a ceremony at the hospital last week, Heartland staff members presented the units to members of the Marion Fire Department. Marion Fire Chief Tim Barnett said the donation will allow the department to always have an AED available.

We now have nine, brand new AED units, he explained. We had two, but they were probably 12- to 14-years-old and they were antiquated. Now we have one in every piece of responding apparatus  one on all four engines, our ladder truck and three squads.

He said having the units, which he valued at about $2,200 each, available on trucks can be a lifesaver for patients.

We respond all of the time to cardiac incidents as first responders. You hate to use them, but when you need to, it is so nice to have them, he said.

AED units are portable devices that can provide electric shock to the heart in an effort to restore normal cardiac rhythm. AEDs can be used to treat sudden cardiac arrest, which can be fatal if not treated in minutes.

Barnett said he reached out to Heartland Regional Medical Center about assisting the department in the acquisition of AEDs and he was delighted with the response, which included not only the AEDs themselves, but training for all members of the Marion Fire Department.

AEDs are lifesaving investments in our community, and Im very pleased that Marion Fire Department is now equipped with AEDs in their first responder vehicles, and firefighters are trained to use them, said Will Davis, Heartland CEO. This is one example of Deaconess Illinois commitment to our local communities, and we look forward to ongoing investments in the health and well-being of people in Southern Illinois."

Heartland Regional Medical Center is part of Evansville, Indiana-based Deaconess Health System.

Barnett said the donation is another example of how people in the region help and look out for one another.

Southern Illinois has done it again, he said. I mean every day the people of our area come together and make things happen for the betterment of everybody. It might be like this all over the country, but, man, it happens here day after day.

Who are they? IL children reported missing as of August 26 These are recent reports of missing children made to local law enforcement. If you think you have seen a missing child, contact the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children at 1-800-THE-LOST (1-800-843-5678).
(CNN)  Yale University agreed to settle a lawsuit alleging the prestigious university discriminated against students with mental health disabilities, according to a joint statement from the university and plaintiffs.

The lawsuit, filed in Connecticut federal court last November by current students and the non-profit Elis for Rachael, alleged the Ivy League school forced students to withdraw after they showed symptoms of severe mental health disability.

In the settlement agreement, Yales undergraduate branch agreed to modify various university policies regarding mental health, including allowing part-time study for students with urgent medical needs and making it easier for students to return from medical leave. Many of these policies were implemented in January and the rest went into effect on Friday, according to a university spokesperson.

The settlement is not an admission by either Yale or Plaintiffs as to any claim, cause of action, or issue of law, according to a copy of the agreement.

The agreement still needs to be approved by the court.

Today is a watershed moment for anyone with a mental health disability, and for the entire Yale community, Rishi Mirchandani, the co-founder of the advocacy group Elis for Rachael, said in a statement Friday. The nonprofits name references Rachael Shaw-Rosenbaum, a first-year Yale student who died by suicide in 2021 and had written about her fears of being forced to withdraw from the school.

This historic settlement affirms that students with mental health needs truly belong, Mirchandani went on.

The Dean of Yale College said he was pleased with the agreement and noted that Yale has expanded student resources over the past few years.

Students and alumni have shared constructive ideas with Yale administrators and clinicians, and my hope is that the changes that have emerged from these discussions will make it easier for students to ask for support, focus on their health and wellbeing, and take time off if they wish, knowing that they can resume their studies when they are ready, Dean Pericles Lewis said in a statement emailed to CNN.

The November lawsuit alleged that Yale officials pressured students to take voluntary leaves of absence for at least one or two terms when they experienced significant mental health symptoms by suggesting they would otherwise face an involuntary withdrawal. Students who withdrew from the university were barred from visiting campus and all campus activities without prior permission from the school, according to the lawsuit.

Under the terms of the settlement, Yale modified its medical leave of absence policy, in part by removing a mandatory minimum amount of time required to be away, according to the statement from Elis for Rachael. The university also streamlined and clarified the process of reinstatement and agreed to allow students on medical leave to have more access to campus, the non-profits statement said.

The new process prioritizes medical care and the students ability to return as an equal member of the campus community, Elis for Rachael said.

In an email sent to Yale students, the university described the most notable change as last years creation of a medical leave of absence  formerly a medical withdrawal  that gives students more flexibility with health insurance, campus jobs, class registration, and other elements of student life.

The settlement also outlined steps Yale will take to ensure students and faculty are aware of mental health policies and resources, including training for university mental health professionals.

Yale College will have in place a system to ensure a robust and meaningful exploration of reasonable accommodations, including accommodations to enable a student to meet essential academic requirements and remain safely in school, the settlement says.

Additionally, the lawsuit detailed instances in which students were required to be accompanied by a police escort to collect their belongings from campus housing after being withdrawn from the university.

Under the policy changes in the settlement, police will be present during these move-outs only if theres a danger to students safety or a risk of disruption that no reasonable accommodations can reduce.

This story was first published on CNN.com, "Yale agrees to settle lawsuit alleging discrimination against students with mental health disabilities"
Dear Chief Cody:

On behalf of the Illinois Press Association, I write to join the chorus of journalism associations around the nation that are outraged by your actions to raid the office of the Marion County (Kansas) Record and the home of its co-owners. The correspondence from The Reporters Committee for Freedom of the Press and others very accurately establishes that the actions of your office are violative of very well-established press freedoms.

Your actions, and the unfortunate death of Mrs. Meyer, caused me to recall the story of Elijah Lovejoy, also a victim of an effort to silence an American newspaper. If you have not yet done so, I urge you to learn this bit of American history. Mr. Lovejoy was murdered by a pro-slavery mob, while defending his anti-slavery newspaper in Alton, Illinois. The mob tossed Lovejoy's press (actually three of them) into the Mississippi River. One of those presses sat in the office of the Alton Telegraph as a reminder to all. A monument to Lovejoy was created in the city.

While the actions of your office leading up to the raid are of grave concern, your inability or unwillingness to explain your actions compounds the aggravation. Obtaining and executing a warrant, without the need for an underlying affidavit, and conducting a search of a newsroom and the publishers' home should be unthinkable. Overbroad. Chilling. Intrusive into newsgathering. All the descriptors used by the courts over the years are brought to mind.

And to think this was brought about  as best we can tell  by the newspaper being advised of a public record of a driving conviction of a local resident. Under what theory is possession of a public court record a crime?

You and your office should apologize to Mr. Meyer and his staff, the newspaper, and to your community for your egregious actions. You can't fix this, you can't hide from it. You should own it, apologize, and resign.

Donald M. Craven

Springfield

President and CEO

Illinois Press Association
CARBONDALE  If youre ever considered entrepreneurship, heres your chance to bring your business idea to life. Southern Illinoisans can win cash prizes and valuable development services to help make their business ideas a reality in the Southern Illinois 2023 Business Plan Competition, thanks to Regions Bank and Southern Illinois University in Carbondale.

I believe that the Business Plan Competition offers local entrepreneurs a remarkable platform to shine, said Melissa Ray Roach, director of the Illinois Small Business Development Center at SIU. It not only celebrates innovation and creativity with real prize money, but it also provides a supportive environment to learn, grow and connect. This competition is more than just a chance to win; its an opportunity to refine ideas, receive valuable feedback and build a strong foundation for success. Were here to foster the spirit of entrepreneurship and drive positive change in our region.

New or expanding business concepts welcomeAny entrepreneur with a new business concept or pre-venture plan is welcome to enter, as are start-up or existing for-profit small businesses focused on innovative ideas, products or services. The deadline to sign up is 11:59 p.m. Sept. 10.

The Illinois Small Business Development Center and Business Incubator Programs at SIU will provide business plan assistance to competitors.

Contestants should be located in one or more of these Southern Illinois counties: Alexander, Franklin, Gallatin, Hamilton, Hardin, Jackson, Jefferson, Johnson, Massac, Perry, Pope, Pulaski, Randolph, Saline, Union, White and Williamson.

Showcase will feature announcement

The winners will be announced during the SIU Research Parks Innovation and Entrepreneurship Showcase, set for 4:30 p.m. Nov. 30 at the Dunn-Richmond Economic Development Center, 1740 Innovation Drive in Carbondale. Judges from diverse backgrounds will choose the winners based on written business plans, financials, pitches, target market identification and impact, market need, commercialization potential, business model, innovation and creativity, and presentation.

The announcement of the business plan competition winners will be the highlight of the showcase, said Lynn Andersen Lindberg, executive director of the Office of Innovation and Economic Development and the SIU Research Park. Were very excited about the opportunity to work with Regions Bank to jump-start several emerging or expanding small businesses and celebrate the innovation that is taking place throughout Southern Illinois.

Whos eligible

Individuals and teams may enter. Competitors must attend three workshops in coming weeks, submit a comprehensive business plan and deliver a compelling 90-second pitch of their concept to win a share of $20,000 in prize money and in-kind services. Local competitions will be held the week of Oct. 13 in Marion, Mount Vernon, Red Bud and Carbondale and the regional final competition will take place at Dunn-Richmond in Carbondale the week of Nov. 13.

Contestants must also adhere to a few other requirements:

They cant be affiliated with government entities, nonprofit organizations, public or private schools, or universities and colleges.

No one can be involved with cannabis, gambling or lobbying activities nor any activities which are prohibited by state or federal law.

All contestants must register to become a client of the Illinois SBDC. This is free of charge.

Find all of the details about the business plan competition and register online.

The SIU Research Park, in partnership with Regions Bank and SI Now, is hosting the competition. Other sponsors include the Illinois SBDC at SIU, SIU Carbondale, First Southern Bank, Saline County Industrial Development Co, Legence Bank, Randolph County Economic Development, Jefferson County Development Corp., Southern Illinois University Foundation, EThOs Small Business Incubator & Coworking Spaces in Marion, Arthur Agency, Clearwave Fiber and Legal Advocacy Headquarters.
The United States is racing to improve its messaging to the developing world as the BRICS group grows, although few in Washington view an immediate threat from the Chinese-backed club.

The BRICS -- Brazil, China, India, Russia and South Africa -- agreed at a summit last week to add six more members, in what Chinese President Xi Jinping billed as a historic moment among large emerging economies contesting the Western-led order.

As the BRICS leaders met in Johannesburg, President Joe Biden's administration renewed promises to step up funding for the developing world through the World Bank and International Monetary Fund.

Biden's national security advisor, Jake Sullivan, vowed to fight to reform the Washington-based lenders at an upcoming summit in New Delhi of the Group of 20 -- boosting the roles both of the US-backed organization, which brings together both rich and poor nations, and of India, a key member of both clubs.

The United States has also been highlighting Russia's withdrawal from a UN-backed deal to allow grain exports from Ukraine to the developing world, where some countries have questioned the Western priority of sending billions of dollars in weapons to Kyiv.

Publicly, Washington played down the BRICS expansion, saying only that countries can choose their own partners.

Sullivan, noting the wide policy differences among the countries, earlier told reporters, "We are not looking at the BRICS as evolving into some kind of geopolitical rival to the United States or anyone else."

- 'Alternatives, not replacements' -

But experts said the BRICS expansion at least showed demand for a new way to address unmet needs, on the economic if not security front.

India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Joe Biden embrace hands during a meeting at the White House on June 23, 2023 /  AFP/File

Emerging nations are "looking for alternatives, not replacements" to the US-led order, said Sarang Shidore, director of the Global South program at the Quincy Institute, which advocates a less military-focused US foreign policy.

"It's a message to the United States that these gaps are hurting and our countries are not just complaining about them or carping from the sidelines, but actually taking action to try and fill these gaps," he said.

A BRICS summit statement pointed to the breakdown of the World Trade Organization's dispute settlement system, where Washington since Donald Trump's presidency has blocked appointments as it alleges unfair treatment.

Biden has ramped up climate action at home but, faced with opposition from Trump's Republican Party, the United States -- the largest historical carbon emitter and second currently to China -- is unlikely to come close to the president's promises of more than $11 billion a year by 2024 to help developing countries hardest hit by climate change.

"I think the US is starting to take it seriously," Shidore said of developing countries' concern. "But those are statements -- is there money attached to it?"

- Even less cohesive? -

Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi takes part in talks of the BRICS group in Johannesburg on August 24, 2023 /  POOL/AFP/File

For Washington, the most concerning addition to the BRICS is Iran, which has hailed membership as a way to break out of US-driven isolation over the clerical state's contested nuclear work and clampdown on protesters.

But the new members do not see eye to eye. Also joining are three Arab countries with historically rocky ties with Iran -- Egypt, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.

Tensions also divided the original BRICS. China has a difficult relationship with India, which has been warming to the United States while insisting on "strategic autonomy."

While the BRICS statement backed reform of the UN Security Council, a major priority for India and Brazil, few expect veto-wielding China and Russia to dilute their power willingly.

Henry Tugendhat, an economist at the US Institute of Peace, said that China in promoting the expansion had inadvertently made the BRICS even less cohesive -- more akin to the G20 than the Group of Seven, the club of major industrial democracies that largely share principles.

"What's striking is that they there are many issues in which they do not align," he said of the G20.

Conspicuously absent from the BRICS expansion was any Southeast Asian country -- despite Indonesia's leadership in the Cold War-era Non-Aligned Movement -- at a time that China has been increasingly assertive on maritime disputes.

Colleen Cottle, a former CIA analyst now at the Atlantic Council, said that for China, BRICS expansion was "more about the rhetoric" of showing that developing countries were rallying to its side, rather than concrete plans to work together.

Still, she said, the BRICS expansion showed the demand for change.

The United States, she said, needs a more effective strategy than its oft-stated insistence on working with "like-minded countries" -- but also is unlikely to find success just replicating China's approach of raw infrastructure spending.

"You need to have the whole package -- the articulated long-term vision as well as the concrete funds to back it up," she said.
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A Las Vegas man was sentenced to over 15 years in prison after he was caught trafficking drugs through Wyoming.

Salvador Nolasco Romero was sentenced to 188 months in prison for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and possession with intent to distribute, the United States Attorneys Office for Wyoming announced.

Judge Alan B. Johnson imposed Romeros sentence on Aug. 23 in a Cheyenne federal courtroom, the statement said.

Romero, 39, was indicted by a federal grand jury in Wyoming, and he was found guilty by a jury in June, the statement said.

According to trial evidence and court documents, Romeros co-conspirator was driving erratically last year near Buffalo, the statement said. It drew the attention of the Wyoming Highway Patrol.

Troopers found 12 pounds of meth in the co-conspirators vehicle during a lawful search.

The evidence revealed that Romero had rented the SUV in Las Vegas, provided the co-conspirator with 12 pounds of methamphetamine, and instructed the co-conspirator to transport the methamphetamine from Las Vegas to Minnesota for distribution, the statement said.

Romero had also conspired with a different person in Mexico to transport meth to Minnesota for sale, the statement said.

This crime was investigated by the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation, the Wyoming Highway Patrol and the Drug Enforcement Administration.

Your news on your smartphone Your story lives in Wyoming, 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 Star-Tribune app is built for you and your life. Dont have the app? Download it today from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.
Wyomings next legislative session will likely see a slate of bills that aim to improve transparency around campaign spending and tighten voter residency requirements.

The Joint Corporations, Elections and Political Subdivisions Committee considered on Thursday its first crop of election-related bill drafts  and one resolution  for the upcoming session. The proposed legislation attempts to address concerns ranging from the influence of private money in campaigns and elections to the question of how long someone should be required to live in Wyoming before they can vote in the states elections.

Any bills that the committee passes now are only approved for consideration during the legislative session. Each bill will still have to go through extensive debate, potential revisions and votes during the session  as well as win the governors approval  before it can become law.

Its likely that there will be many more election-related bills considered during the legislative session than the ones the Corporations Committee approves for introduction, since individual lawmakers can also request bill drafts.

Here are some of the most consequential bills that the Corporations Committee is considering:

Voter residency requirement

The committee tabled a bill that aims to establish a 30-day durational residency requirement for eligibility to vote in Wyoming elections. It will take up the bill again at its next meeting in October.

The bill would require that new voters take an oath swearing that they have been a bona fide resident of the state for at least 30 days before they vote (lawmakers wanted to work on an amendment to clarify this timeline, which was the reason they tabled the bill for the next meeting).

Voters who dont meet the durational residency requirement would, under federal law, still be able to participate in elections for president and vice president of the U.S.

Some lawmakers and the County Clerks Association of Wyoming expressed concern about how this requirement would impact people who are mobile or dont have a stable residence, such as RVers or unhoused people. Secretary of State Chuck Gray argued that this shouldnt be an issue, because the proposed legislation only requires that someone be a resident somewhere within the state for 30 days, not to have a fixed residence.

Excluding Nebraska, all of Wyomings neighboring states have durational residency requirements for voters, according to the state Legislative Service Office. The typical required duration is around 30 days.

Ban on private funds for conducting elections

The committee unanimously passed a bill that would bar private funding for the administration of elections in Wyoming.

As the bill is currently drafted, government and election officials who solicit or accept private funds to conduct elections could be subject to a misdemeanor, up to six months imprisonment and a fine up to $1,000 under the proposed law. The Secretary of State could, by rule, exempt special district elections from these restrictions.

This topic came to the forefront across the nation when, in 2020, Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg donated millions to nonprofits that gave grants to local elections offices to conduct elections amid the pandemic. Though some say this money influenced the outcome of the presidential election, the donations were not contributions to President Joe Bidens campaign, and they didnt violate campaign finance law, according to the Associated Press.

Campaign donation transparency

The committee passed in a 9-5 vote a resolution asking Congress to propose a constitutional amendment that would restrict corporations and organizations from making campaign contributions. The requested amendment would also allow for the public identification of the source of political contributions and spending.

The resolution specifies that the proposed amendment shouldnt restrict political spending by organizations that publicly identify their members and donors.

The request stems from the 2010 Citizens United v. Federal Election Commission case in which the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that Congress and states cant ban independent corporate spending on political campaigns for public office. The decision was based on the idea that spending money to support a candidate is protected speech under the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution.

But the ruling has cleared the path for the creation of super political action committees that can accept unlimited contributions and make huge campaign expenditures, the resolution says. Whats more, those expenditures cant be traced very easily.

The resolution states that the Wyoming Legislature has grave concerns that corporations have abilities not enjoyed by natural persons including perpetual life and enhanced accumulation of assets, characteristics which may enable corporations to financially overwhelm individual natural persons in the political process.

Campaign reporting

The committee carried over to its next meeting a bill that clarifies when groups are required to file as an organization for the purposes of campaign reporting.

The proposed legislation, as its currently written, would expand the definition of organization to include any group of two or more people, if that group pools or jointly spends more than $1,000 on campaign materials or independent expenditures  expenditures made without coordinating with a candidate or their campaign committee.

Such groups wouldnt have to file a campaign report if all group members are disclosed on electioneering communications or with the independent expenditures.

Lawmakers indicated that the bill will likely be amended at the committees next meeting in October.

Your news on your smartphone Your story lives in Wyoming, 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 Star-Tribune app is built for you and your life. Dont have the app? Download it today from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.
The Chabad Jewish Center of Wyoming will hold a groundbreaking ceremony for its new Chabad Jewish Community Center of Wyoming on Sunday.

According to an email from the center, the ceremony will include dignitaries and community leaders, delicious refreshments, live music, an open bar, mechanical bull rides, and a bounce house. Judaism is thriving in the Equality State. The ceremony will start at 5:30 p.m.

The land was purchased for a synagogue and Jewish community center in Jackson Hole in September 2014. The Chabad Jewish Center of Wyoming is the only Chabad center in the state. There are only a few Jewish houses of worship in Wyoming, mostly centered in the state's more urban areas, such as Laramie, Jackson Hole, Cheyenne and Casper.

Chabad is an Orthodox Hasidic sect of Judaism that focuses on outreach and embraces modern tools to spread its message.

There are two phases to the building of the center, which will include the synagogue, classrooms, a community ballroom, a childrens library, a Jewish and Western art pavilion, living space for the rabbi and his family, and four condos.

The center will also house a Holocaust museum, which will be the first of its kind in Wyoming.

This will include exhibits, audio/visual, victims stories, original and copies of Holocaust related artifacts and art, a picture from the centers website says. The goal of this space is to inspire tolerance, understanding and respect for humanity, through the prism of the Holocaust.

In the same picture, the center states that it hopes Jackson Hole, as a destination for millions of visitors each year, will benefit from the addition of such a museum.

Phase One of the building will cost $10 million, and Phase Two $15 million for a grand total of $25 million.

Just as we are united by heritage and culture, we share the responsibility to create an environment in which our Jewish traditions will thrive, the centers website reads. We must come together in our giving to build a special place where we can gather as a communityfor holidays and life-cycle events, cultural activities and social gatherings. The future of Jewish education, celebration and culture in Jackson Hole depends on our communal investment.

Less than 1% of adults living in Wyoming identified as Jewish, according to a 2014 Pew Research study.
The restoration of bison in Yellowstone National Park  since their near total extermination in the 1800s  is a national environmental and conservation success story.

But managing the species today in cooperation with tribal, federal, state and NGO partners means the parks draft management plan cannot solve the many problems facing our national mammal, said Yellowstone Superintendent Cam Sholly on Monday.

There are a lot of opinions on bison management, he said, speaking during a webinar. Some want unlimited bison in the park. Some want far fewer bison. And were trying to strike a balance, and really, in many ways, solidify progress thats been made over the last two decades plus.

I think this plan does that.

The public has another chance to hear the parks presentation on its draft Bison Management Plan Environmental Impact Statement, and to ask questions of staff during a 4 p.m. webinar on Tuesday, Aug. 29, by logging on to bit.ly/YellowstoneBisonEIS2. Staff members also stressed they are willing to talk to anyone interested about the draft plan.

Comments on the draft are being taken through Sept. 25. The park expects to have a final plan out by next summer.

A spokesman for Gov. Greg Gianforte said he has requested an extension of the comment period out to 60 days.

Proposals

In its draft EIS, the park has outlined three possible bison management alternatives.

Alternative 1: The Park Service would maintain a population range of bison similar to the last two decades (3,500 to 5,000 bison after calving), continue to balance populations in the park by using culling and hunting opportunities outside the park, increase the number of brucellosis-free bison relocated to tribal lands via the Bison Conservation Transfer Program (BCTP), and work with the state of Montana to manage brucellosis to keep the disease from spreading to cattle.

Yellowstone bison are not allowed to roam freely outside the park in Montana. Instead, they are confined to whats referred to as tolerance zones bordering the west and north sides of the park. Bison are the only wildlife species in Montana managed by the Department of Livestock because of the risk of them transmitting brucellosis. Elk in the region also carry the disease but are managed by the Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife & Parks and are free-roaming, although monitored.

Alternative 2: Bison would be managed within a population range of about 3,500 to 6,000 animals after calving with an emphasis on using the transfer program to restore bison to tribal lands and tribal treaty hunting outside the park to regulate numbers.

Alternative 3: The Park Service would rely on natural selection, bison dispersal, and public and tribal hunting in Montana as the primary tools to regulate numbers, which would likely range from 3,500 to 7,000 or more animals after calving.

Critics

Bison conservation advocates have criticized the plan for not going far enough.

The parks plan represents a piecemeal approach to wild bison management that entrenches the status quo, at a time when we must be acting in a holistic manner, said James Holt, Buffalo Field Campaigns executive director, in a statement. Moving from a policy of slaughter to a policy of domestication doesnt protect their long-term viability. Intensified human handling and removal called for in the alternatives will have a continued negative impact on their wild characteristics.

BFC board member Dallas Gudgell wrote in an email that management of Yellowstone bison is fractured because the Park Service and Forest Service do not work together across the landscape for the benefit of the species.

All alternatives further entrench the status quo of severe government management of populations inside the park. Inside the park only, Gudgell said. This type of siloed management cannot integrate science-based biological realities across the entire ecosystem. We believe we must have true holistic management across the entire Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem when it comes to buffalo and their ability to access their historical migratory habits within the entire bioregion.

Roam Free Nation, which was critical of this past winters record-high tribal bison hunting harvest, said continued reliance on such lethal management frustrates the parks attempts to rely on natural selection in managing the population.

The group also referred to the transfer program as domestication and relocation that needs to stop.

Wild buffalo need to be free to roam, like deer, elk, and all other wildlife species, the group stated on its website.

10k withdrawn

Roam Free Nation questioned why an earlier park proposal to allow bison to expand to a population of 10,000 was withdrawn from the draft EIS, accusing the agency of caving to threats made by Montana Governor Greg Gianforte who said he would sue the park if the population wasnt driven down to the cattle industrys proposed population of 3,000 animals.

Sholly pointed to the past winters heavy bison migration into the Gardiner Basin, north of the park, as one reason the population limit was modified. Going into the winter there were about 6,000 bison in the park, about 4,000 of which migrated into the basin after heavy November snow and cold weather.

There simply is not the winter habitat to support those high numbers, even if there is the summer habitat for those high numbers, Sholly said. I get it. Many, many people want to see more bison. These normally arent people that are having to manage bison, and so theres got to be a balance in there.

Just as I dont think 3,000 or less is a good way forward, at this particular point in time, I dont feel that 10,000  even if the park can support them in the summer  is a good idea considering what we have to work with and what we want to be cognizant of in managing this issue outside the park, especially in the winter.

Sholly said the Park Service will also be working with the eight tribes allowed to hunt bison outside the park to ensure the animals can move beyond the border, where a firing-line atmosphere exists, to spread out hunting.

I think we had roughly 1,200 harvested this year, most of that in the north, but there were substantial numbers of bison in the tolerance zone throughout the winter that were not harvested as well, Sholly said.

What we want to try to do also is get the bison more conditioned to getting into the tolerance zone in the winter and not getting shot right on the boundary, which forces them back into the park.

Yellowstone Center for Resources Chief, Jennifer Carpenter, said the agency is also working with its partners to address the issue of gut piles left on the landscape from hunter kills. In March, federal, state and tribal partners helped clean up the mess by hauling off a 14-foot trailer and three dumpsters full of bison entrails, hides and bones.

Incremental

Since 2000, when the Inter-Agency Bison Management Plan was created as a resolution to the state of Montanas lawsuit against Yellowstone regarding bison, progress has been made in managing the large mammals, Sholly noted. Back then, the area where bison could roam outside of Yellowstone into Montana was smaller, more animals were shipped to slaughter and hazed. Hunting was by a select few.

Now eight tribes exercise their treaty rights to hunt bison in Montana and shipments to slaughter have been lessened in place of more live bison being transferred to tribes.

Weve made significant changes together. Incremental changes, but cumulatively that paradigm that was identified in 2000 was never really implemented or followed if you look at the numbers, Sholly said. And most of the controversy around this plan is based on population numbers  and means of controlling that population.
WHEN the rice finishes, we make dumplings.

Thats the reality for one family because they simply cannot afford to replenish food until the next pay cheque.

Living pay cheque to pay cheque is a dilemma many households are facing in Trinidad and Tobago.
KI is planning a huge homecoming for Carnival 2024.

KI (Kris Persad) and his family band 3Veni have been noticeably absent from the fete circuit for the past five years.

The Toronto, Canada-based former chutney soca monarch says he is longing for the one place where he is at home: the Carnival stage.
A disabled grandfather is being hailed as a hero after he rescued his nine-year-old grandson from their house in San Fernando when it caught fire on Saturday.
Chief Justice Ivor Archies recent call for acceptance among judges suggests that at least some of them have not been dispensing justice impartially to all citizens of Trinidad and Tobago.

Speaking at the Caribbean Judges Forum on HIV Health and Human Rights last Thursday, the Chief Justice asserted, As lawyers and judges, we must begin from the premise that it is possible to construct functional, moral or ethical codes of behaviour without adherence to any particular doctrine, regardless of how strongly we may hold our personal religious convictions.
PHOENIX  Kari Lake will get a chance to argue shes entitled to examine signatures on ballot envelopes from the 2022 election in her bid to overturn the gubernatorial election.

Maricopa County Superior Court Judge John Hannah has set aside two days next month to hear the contention by Lakes attorney, Bryan Blehm, that the ballot envelopes and the signatures on them are subject to public scrutiny.

Lake contends an examination would show they do not match other signatures already on file. That would bolster her repeated claims  all unproven so far  that invalid votes were counted and affected her 17,117-vote loss to Democrat Katie Hobbs.

Blehm argues Maricopa County acted illegally in denying Lake access to the envelopes because he says that violates the states Public Records Law.

Even if Hannah concludes the ballot envelopes and their signatures are public records, none of that may help Lake overturn her loss.

Deputy County Attorney Joseph La Rue said anything Lake obtains now is legally useless in her pending appeal of another judges ruling in May that the Republican contender never proved that misconduct or illegal activity affected the outcome of the election. That judge confirmed that Hobbs was elected.

Despite Lakes claim that the records she seeks in this public records lawsuit are the lifeblood of her election contest, her election contest is over, La Rue said.

Of Lakes appeal, he said appellate courts cannot consider evidence that was not presented at trial.

And Lake never raised the claim of mismatched signatures when she first sued to overturn the results. Nor did she seek a court order in that case for the production of the ballot envelopes.

Lake is asking to see all 2022 general election ballot affidavit envelopes, which are mainly from voters who voted early by mail.

By law, those envelopes contain the signatures of the voters. Election officials then compare those signatures with others from the same person already on file. If they are determined to match, the envelope is opened and the ballot is removed for tabulating.

Lake has previously argued that the county did not do the required verification, citing statistics showing 274,000 signatures were approved in fewer than three seconds each and 70,000 in two seconds or less. But Maricopa County Superior Court Judge Peter Thompson, ruling in her direct challenge to the election results, said those numbers were irrelevant.

His ruling is the one awaiting action by the state Court of Appeals.

Now, using the claim of public records, Lake is seeking evidence of mismatches.

However, once election officials say they are satisfied a signature matches, the ballots are separated from the envelopes. That precludes Lake from claiming that specific votes for Hobbs should be discounted.

Instead, Lake appears to be hoping to find sufficient questionable signatures among all ballots to show that the results of the election and her 17,117-vote shortfall are in doubt.

If you truly ran a great election, what are you hiding? Lake asked in a social media post. Were going to find out.

Lake contends ballot envelopes are no different than any other document possessed by public officials. State law says such materials must be made available to any person upon request.

La Rue said its not that simple. The presumption favoring disclosure is not absolute, he said. Instead, La Rue said, courts must perform a balancing test to determine whether privacy, confidentiality or the best interests of the state outweigh the policy in favor of disclosure.

He acknowledged that a voters registration record can be examined in a county recorders office.

But he also said state law protects certain personally identifying information that people provide when they register to vote. That includes month and day of birth, Social Security number, drivers license number, the mothers maiden name, state and county of birth, and the records containing a voters signature.

La Rue said the state Election Code makes voters signatures retained in their voter registration records confidential.

But it appears hes already lost that argument. I am not convinced that the ballot affidavit is a voter registration record, Hannah said in a June ruling.

What that leaves for next months hearing is the underlying question of whether those ballot affidavits fit within what is a public record and, if so, whether they are exempt from disclosure.
The following is the opinion and analysis of the writer:

In Arizona, consumers can choose their cars, homes, phone providers and where they shop for food. You cannot shop for electricity. Dont like the latest rate hike? Youre stuck with the local monopoly. Want 100% renewable power? The monopoly says no. Prefer fossil fuels instead? No. But with record-setting heat driving heavy AC use and two major electric companies asking the Arizona Corporation Commission to stick consumers with higher rates, many wonder why they cannot choose their electricity supply.

In fact, until recently, state law directed regulators to create rules for electric competition. Utility regulators never followed through, and last year, conservative lawmakers, purported defenders of free markets, stripped pro-competition language from state law at the request of the monopolies. Some lawmakers said they needed to kill the old law so they could take a fresh look at competition, but they seem to have lost their interest.

With more hot weather and rate hikes looming, its time for that fresh look. Several states allow customers to choose their own electric supplier and have for decades. A new report on retail electric competition written by a former state regulator summarizes both the good and bad effects of competition. Arizonans should read it.

The good news is that competition puts pressure on electric supply companies to keep costs down and that competitive markets help consumers who want to support renewable power. In addition, consumers get a much wider range of supply opportunities, with offers ranging from free nights and weekends, to fixed bills to special deals for customers with solar panels or home battery systems.

The bad part is that some competitive suppliers have engaged in misleading and abusive sales tactics. Also, many states have not done well educating consumers about their new opportunities. Even after 20 years of allowing consumer choice, some people do not know they can choose their own electric supplier.

In other states, these same abusive sales tactics and consumer confusion have resulted in some officials calling for a return to monopoly, but the author says the flaws can be readily fixed. The last 20 years of experience shows that with the right foundation, competition works for consumers.

Monopolists commonly make three arguments: Competition didnt work in California, competition will make the system unreliable, and electric rates will skyrocket. These arguments are either misleading or wrong.

Californias early attempt at retail competition failed, but no other state copied Californias approach and no other state had a similar failure. Arizona would not adopt that discredited design, so Californias failure is irrelevant.

It is also not true that retail electric competition will make electric power service more unreliable. Most power outages come from damage to distribution wires from storms, like the recent outages in Tucson caused by a monsoon. Even in states with retail electric choice, the distribution wires remain owned and operated by state-regulated monopolies. The Texas winter storm in February 2021 led to widespread outages and deadly consequences for some, but no one who has studied the failures points to retail competition as a cause.

Finally, consumer rates will not skyrocket. A few states with retail choice have higher than average rates, for instance, Connecticut and Massachusetts. But these states have long had higher costs of doing business. The price of a Big Mac in these states is higher than in Arizona, too. The high rates in Northeastern states are due to other state policies, not the fault of retail electric choice. A few customers in Texas  about 0.5% of those able to choose an electric supplier  did see outrageous power bills after the 2021 winter storm, but Arizonas constitution prevents similar uncapped prices.

Many lawmakers in Arizona may think that electric monopolies are best for consumers. But a new, detailed report on the history and prospects for electric choice means lawmakers should take a fresh look.






Artificial Intelligence

Recently, a commercial was discussing how the lens in the eyeglasses were formed using AI, which is kinda scary for anyone wearing the eyeglasses. There is a reason that it is named Artificial: it is not real, it is developed and created by man, and it incorporates all of his bias and prejudices, whether he knows it or not. This means that every action taken by the computer, not a being but computer, is the result of choices made based on the choices of a human. The biggest limitation on computers and artificial intelligence is the complete lack of brilliant insights, the inclusion of curiosity, and, luckily, the utter lack of love or greed. Consider, Russias invasion of Ukraine is the result of the desire for power by Putin, dragging and pulling the citizens of Russia with his greed; lets find the chip that controls the greed in the AI.

Loran Hancock

Northwest side

The Donald

Theres been a certain amount of discussion I have encountered regarding what will happen should DJ Trump get chosen by an American electorate to be President of the USA in 2024. Some say if that happens, he will find a way to reign for life. I dont see much however concerning the possibility he is rejected by the majority of voters in 2024. Does anyone believe he will accept the role of a loser? That he will concede rather than deceive? What then?

Theodore Warmbrand

Midtown

How can anyone sane vote for Trump?Hes an alleged criminal in 41-plus ways in states and federally. Hes an alleged rapist. He allegedly pays illegal hush money to porn stars to hide extramarital affairs. Many here in Tucson hold Top Secret Security Clearances. If we handled documents as Trump has, we would be in jail. And rightfully so as we, just as Trump, vowed we would protect American security. He lost in 2020 and is either lying about the loss or is delusional. Is either okay? Is that your future president?

Others have tried thru history to delude the ignorant, and it never goes well for them or the tyrant. Can you be more ignorant or stupid in voting for him? Future years of strife and violence wont be worth the eventual vindication.

Scott Cowell

East side

Democrats ruining American society?

Re: the Aug. 17 letter Democrats ruination of American society.

The letter writer gives an opinion in the first sentence, supported by 11 other opinions. I would be interested in hearing more about these opinions, specifically the evidence that backs them up. For example, regarding his thoughts on restorative justice, what are some specific examples here? How would ignoring contrition be beneficial to the justice system? Also, about Democrats social welfare policies, in what ways has the nuclear family been ruined? What social welfare policies (if any) would benefit American society? How would Black communities be better off with these alternative social welfare policies, or lack thereof? These questions only refer to two of the 11 opinions, but I would be interested to hear more about all 11. Perhaps the letter writer might consider a guest column with facts and examples supporting each of his ideas. I would be happy to read it.

Sally Lee

Foothills

The greatest degeneration

Donald Trump is the champion and symbol of this Greatest Degeneration. While his antics and his army of lawyers are gumming up the works of the Justice system, the country is becoming a gnarly, twisted heap of troubles. Still, Trumps loyal devotees make him more the hero for all of that; a man who has been tested, tried, and true. Or not.

The rowdiest of this degeneration has gnawed at the ties of decency, and fully armed, await the command to snap into violent action. It is a tattered lot who tag along with such as Trump.

He has kept his base in harness with pity-party speeches as he bellows his sad plight. Oh my! Many must feel sorry for him. His golden-maned statue is listing badly.

Truly, these are the trials of the century, and the Department of Justice has met its match. Either the statue will fall, or Democracy will.

So, as of now, we have Trump right where he wants us  in his audience.

Ron Lancaster

North side

Mismatching rates and causation

Re: the Aug. 26 article CDC: 1 in 5 moms mistreated during maternity care.

At first glance, youd think there is a cause-and-effect relationship between mistreatment reported and high mortality rates in the US. This occurs because of the poor reporting choices. Take a closer look. The first paragraph states that 1 in 5 mothers report mistreatment in a new CDC survey. The second paragraph outlines the types of mistreatment the 20% encountered. Then paragraph three jumps to the high infant mortality rate in the US compared to other developed nations. This jump is made because experts say it is not surprising. That is not causation based on a scientific study. That is an opinion that would need to be tested. In social research rigorous study of the opinion is necessary to make the connection, otherwise its speculation, and better reporting would say it.

K.C. Stanford

West side

Degradation of politicians

I am 74 years old and I am appalled at the political representatives available today to set the laws of the land. I remember Eisenhower, Kennedy, Roosevelt and the astute leaders we had. Now we have clowns like Trump, McCarthy and idiots who block important appointments over, non-political issues. Rather than work for the common good, they bicker and try to prove the other side is worse than they are.

The Republican candidates all refute global warming or climate change; the Democrats are just as bad about working for the common good. And, then you have people like Tucker Carlson who encourage their behavior for ratings and do not even provide accurate and good information.

The human race is extinguishing itself, and our leaders cant lead. We get what we deserve, and I think we need to start choosing better leaders, not parties.

Lastly, I keep hearing about the wonderful things Trump did, and I cant find any. Please provide this information.

Charles Hammond

Marana

Student attendance declines

Re: the Aug. 15 article Millions of kids missing weeks of school across US.

One missing cause for the 10% absenteeism rate not mentioned in the Aug. 15 article is witnessing what actually happens in a classroom by the parents. During COVID, via internet-led classes, they saw lessons directed toward the lowest common denominator taught by teachers more interested in their phone messages and Facebook posts. So, why worry about what your child will miss during in-person classes if this is what they have to look forward to?

I know, I am overly generalizing, but Im also speaking from the perspective of a retired 30-year veteran teachers viewpoint. I saw what my grandchildren were presented with during COVID. I would not hesitate to keep my grandchildren home an extra day here and there if the opportunity for outside learning or travel ever arose. The rise in absenteeism, use of school vouchers, increase in homeschooling, and low opinion statistics for schools and teachers in general back me up.

Jeffery Miller

Northwest side

Perception

Re: the Aug. 24 letter Confused.

It seems the author believes we are sinking into a socialistic third-world status. Niger is a third-world country, is he comparing us to that mess. I suppose the author believes Donnie is 6-3 and 215 pounds. The author is wrong, Donnie is facing four, not three trials. The author believes climate change is a mere perception. Checked the temperature lately? Donnie is an autocrat that is going after them until he is installed into office and then comes after you. Instead of supporting an honest man who is earnest in providing for the poor and creating a better society the author backs a child-like narcissistic, pathological liar, and all-around despicable human being. Go ahead, elect Donnie and see what you get.

David ben Avram

Marana

Tree Socialism

Re: the Aug. 27 article New utility regulators fight tree socialism.

Thanks Tim Stellar for shining a light on the new Arizona Corporation Commissioners. Your article prompted me to look up the Mission Statement of the Utilities Division which speaks to ...a balanced analysis of the benefits and impacts on all stakeholders, ... consistent with the public interest. Taking an axe to TEPs tree program and further cutting the reimbursement rate for rooftop solar hardly seem consistent with the public interest of all stakeholders. The ACC seems laser-focused on promoting their personal policy goals and those of aligned squeaky wheels. Trees are good, rooftop solar is good, and both serve the public interest. The commissioners should read their Mission Statement from time to time.

Sheldon Clark

Vail

Barrio Books

Re: the Aug. 27 article Hidden bookstores.

The Star recently reminisced about the late Haunted Book Shop. A lovely bookstore that I still miss. The Star also highlighted two other stores worthy of a book lovers support: the National Parks Store and the San Xavier Gift Shop.

In addition to these stores, I wanted to highlight the Barrio Bookstore. It specializes in books about the Latino culture. As the store has expanded, books by Indigenous Authors, Black Authors, Local authors, LGBTQAI+ have been added. Previously located at Hotel McCoy, it recently relocated to 33rd and 10th in the City of South Tucson. Next time we visit Tucson, well stop by.

Judith Anderson
A community bank has agreed to invest $1.15 million in a settlement agreement with the U.S. Justice Department on allegations of lending discrimination in historically Black neighborhoods.

American Bank of Oklahoma was accused by the Justice Department of lending discrimination by redlining in Tulsa. The affected area included historically Black neighborhoods that were the site of the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre.

Federal prosecutors also alleged bank emails by employees, including executives and loan officers, contained racial slurs and racist content.

The bank will invest at least $950,000 in a loan subsidy fund for residents of majority-Black and Hispanic neighborhoods in the Tulsa area. A Justice Department news release states $100,000 will fund advertising, outreach, and consumer education, with another $100,000 for development of community partnerships to provide services that increase access to residential mortgage credit.

ABOK denies the allegations but has agreed to resolve the matter to avoid the cost and distraction of protracted litigation, the bank said in a news release.

The bank has branches in Collinsville, Disney, Muskogee, Ramona and Skiatook.

The complaint ... alleges that, from 2017 through at least 2021, American Bank of Oklahoma failed to provide mortgage lending services to majority-Black and Hispanic neighborhoods in the Tulsa metropolitan area, the Justice Department said.

Specifically, the department alleges that all American Bank of Oklahomas branches and loan production offices were located in majority-white neighborhoods, that the bank designated a service area that excluded all majority-Black and Hispanic-census tracts in the metropolitan area, and that the bank failed to appropriately monitor and address fair lending risk.

As a result, the banks loan officers did not serve the credit needs of Black and Hispanic neighborhoods in and around Tulsa, and the banks actions reinforced and perpetuated segregated housing patterns because of race, color, or national origin.

The complaint also alleges that bank employees, including executives and loan officers, sent and received emails on their work email accounts containing racial slurs and racist content.

As Oklahomans, we carry a profound sense of sorrow for the tragic events of the Tulsa Race Massacre over a century ago, the bank said in its release.

It is with deep concern that we note the Justice Departments decision to reference this distressing historical event in its complaint against our bank, established a mere 25 years ago.

ABOK stands as a small community bank, with $383 million in assets and constrained resources, endeavoring to maintain competitiveness within the City of Tulsa. Despite our limitations, we remain resolute in our commitment to expand lending initiatives and foster financial inclusivity for the residents of Tulsa.

The bank said it has been an active supporter of schools in its communities and is a proud sponsor of financial education courses for students in north Tulsa public schools.

We are excited about the opportunity to apply our community banking model in north and northeast Tulsa and look forward to expanding ways we can help members of the communities with their banking and lending needs, said ABOK Chairman and CEO Joe Landon.

Providing equal access to credit is essential in every community, but the painful history of Tulsa makes this agreement particularly poignant because the redlined areas include historically Black neighborhoods that have endured the legacy of racial violence and the continuing effects of segregation and discrimination, said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Departments Civil Rights Division.

This agreement will help expand investment in Black communities and communities of color in Tulsa and increase opportunities for homeownership and financial stability. Remedial provisions in the agreement will open opportunities for building generational wealth while focusing on neighborhoods that bear the scars of the Tulsa Race Massacre.

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Art Haddaway Owasso Reporter Editor Follow Art Haddaway Close Get email notifications on {{subject}} daily! Your notification has been saved. There was a problem saving your notification. {{description}} Email notifications are only sent once a day, and only if there are new matching items. Save Manage followed notifications Close Followed notifications Please log in to use this feature Log In Don't have an account? Sign Up Today

Related at tulsaworld.com Asbury in south Tulsa splits from United Methodist Church, changes name amid denomination talks

Owasso First United Methodist Church this week voted to disaffiliate from The United Methodist Church.

Congregants of the Owasso church on Sunday, Aug. 27, voted 233-37 to separate from the denomination based on doctrinal and theological disagreements regarding human sexuality.

It was painful and divisive, and we are praying for all members of our church because we were not all of one mind, Owasso FUMC Pastor Jim Cinocca told the Owasso Reporter.

Sundays vote came after more than a year of discernment when the Owasso Church Council unanimously recommended a departure from the UMC based on its beliefs that the denomination is increasingly ungovernable and clergy leaders no longer hold a traditional Christian doctrine, the official recommendation states.

The document further cites the UMCs alleged inconsistency in following the Book of Discipline as it relates to same-sex marriage and ordination of LGBTQ clergy, as outlined in the UMCs Traditional Plan, which was passed at its 2019 Special Session of General Conference.

Amid growing concerns shared by other UMC-affiliated churches across the nation, the UMC amended its Book of Discipline that same year to allow congregations, such as Owassos, to leave the denomination based on reasons of conscience related to action surrounding the decisions of that conference.

Owasso FUMCs vote to disaffiliate by an overwhelming margin of 86% will go before a Special Called Annual Conference in mid-October that will cast a final vote to approve its official separation from the denomination. The disaffiliation will allow the congregation to keep the property, at 13800 E. 106th St. North, before the option to do so sunsets Dec. 31.

The local church, in operation for over 117 years, has approximately 450 active congregants and joins more than 6,100 Methodist congregations in the U.S. that have already disaffiliated from the UMC, including 84 Oklahoma churches previously approved for separation. Cinocca said Owasso FUMC has not been made aware of what it will cost to disaffiliate.

"After paying the disaffiliation fee, we will no longer pay apportionments to the Oklahoma Conference of the United Methodist Church, but we will be free to support any United Methodist mission/organization we choose, such as Restore Hope, UMCOR, Circle of Care," the Owasso church's recommendation reads.

About 45 other churches across the state are in various stages of the discernment/disaffiliation process, the Oklahoman reports, with the special Oklahoma United Methodist Conference meeting set for Oct. 13-14.
Sharon Bishop-Baldwin Sand Springs Leader Staff Writer Follow Sharon Bishop-Baldwin Close Get email notifications on {{subject}} daily! Your notification has been saved. There was a problem saving your notification. {{description}} Email notifications are only sent once a day, and only if there are new matching items. Save Manage followed notifications Close Followed notifications Please log in to use this feature Log In Don't have an account? Sign Up Today

When wind-whipped flames tore through the Hawaiian island of Maui on Aug. 8, much of the popular, thriving community of Lahaina was reduced to ash. With at least 115 confirmed dead and hundreds more missing, attention quickly turned to what decisions might have contributed to the deadliest fire in Hawaiis history.

But those assessments arent taking place just in Hawaii, Sand Springs City Manager Mike Carter said.

I was watching about the tragedy in Hawaii and saw the controversy about whether the sirens should have been sounded, he said, adding that he found himself empathizing not only with the victims of the deadly blaze but also the officials tasked with making life-or-death decisions on the fly.

I know all of these people who make decisions  city managers, fire chiefs, police chiefs, superintendents  theyre constantly thinking about these things for the benefit of the public, he said. But this is how we change things  we see a tragedy elsewhere and start thinking about how to prevent it here.

It just sparked an idea in my mind that we should think of warning sirens differently, Carter said. Weve all been guilty of calling them tornado sirens, because thats what the major threat in Oklahoma is.

I really thought if we could change that dynamic from event-based warnings to response-based alerts, it could make a difference.

For example, many Oklahomans would see the two commonly heard sirens in this area as a tornado siren and a flood siren.

There are too few siren tones for every type of event, but they have a commonality, Carter said.

Suppose that a tornado siren were thought of instead as a seek-shelter alert that could be issued not only for tornadoes but also, for example, for any type of high-wind event, such as the Fathers Day storm that decimated trees, power lines, fences and roofs across Sand Springs.

Suppose a flood warning were instead thought of as a warning to avoid a hazardous area where the problem might be rising water from a dam break or a chemical cloud, he said.

The timing of Carters pondering is notable.

Crews are putting the finishing touches on the installation across Sand Springs of 19 upgraded or new emergency warning sirens that all are louder and have a larger reach than the old sirens.

The upgrade was one part of a far-reaching $15.7 million general-obligation bond package that local voters approved in June 2022.

In theory, Hawaii has a so-called all-hazard system, in which the sirens  400 statewide and about 80 on Maui alone  are intended to be used for a variety of natural and human-caused events.

That includes fires, Mauis own website states, calling the four sirens in the Lahaina area part of the largest single integrated outdoor siren warning system for public safety in the world.

But in practice, the system has been used mainly for tsunami warnings, according to officials with the Maui Emergency Management Agency. Administrator Herman Andaya said MEMA would not use sirens in a case like this. Thats not what we normally would do. We just dont use sirens for fires.

Carter has a different idea.

Weve always anticipated using those sirens that way, he said, but I dont think across the nation there has been this thought of how were going to educate our people on that.

Now is the time for us in Oklahoma to think about these things  what would we have done, and is there a policy we need to change.

Carter said he talked with Fire Chief Jeremy Wade and Police Chief John Mars about rebranding the citys emergency warning sirens and that both agreed that it would be good to do.

City officials will soon undertake an education campaign to let people know how the slight changes should be navigated, and the citys website has already been updated to account for the new way of thinking.

But Carter said residents shouldnt panic, because at the end of the day, all of the sirens really mean for people to do the same thing  and they always have.

In all of these situations theres action to be taken, he said. The main lesson is tune in for whatever other information you need, adding that all three sirens  the seek-shelter alert, the hazardous-area warning and the thankfully all-but-dormant national emergency tone  should send people to the media for more information.

The new sirens also have a voice capability that allows the city to broadcast messages if necessary.

Carter said residents should be aware of three important points about the emergency warning siren system:

There is no all-clear siren. City officials assume that residents will have tuned into the media or other emergency notification system that will tell them when the coast is clear, he said.

A second sounding of the same siren may mean an event is continuing or could mean a second event is anticipated.

The sirens are intended to be heard by people who are outside, not inside their homes. Nevertheless, Carter said, the new sirens are loud enough that people likely will hear them no matter where they are.

And theres a built-in redundancy in most areas, so if one siren is down another is covering the area, he added.

Lastly, the city will never live-test the national emergency siren. It will provide notices about upcoming tests of other types of sirens, complete with educational information about what actions to take.

Coincidentally, such an alert was accidentally issued via the Emergency Alert System and Wireless Emergency Alert System over television, radio, and cellphones in Hawaii on Jan. 13, 2018, instructing residents to seek shelter from an incoming ballistic missile.

It concluded: This is not a drill. More than 38 minutes later, state officials blamed a miscommunication during a drill at the Hawaii Emergency Management Agency.

Carter said the sirens the city has replaced are going to Mannford and the Green Country Fire Department. What remains to be seen is whether any other municipalities will adopt Sand Springs new perspective on the emergency warning sirens.

If for some reason we get information that its bad, we can reconsider our policy, he said. But if this works for other communities, I hope they adopt it.
First-day jitters are notorious for students heading back to school each fall, and last week was no exception for some of the youngsters attending classes in Sand Springs.

But the sweaty palms and butterflies in the stomach werent limited to students.

Too excited to sleep

Dottie Richardson got ready for the first day of school in Sand Springs last week earlier than a lot of people, rising by about 3:45 a.m.

As a bus driver, she was on the job at the school districts bus barn at 5:30 a.m., well before dawn.

But for Richardson, who started driving a bus for the district only two weeks before the end of the school year last May, the early hour was irrelevant, as first-day jitters had kept sleep at bay anyway.

Oh, yeah. I couldnt sleep at all last night, she said while dropping off a load of students at the Sixth Grade Center early last Tuesday.

Richardson, who had driven a school bus for 23 years in Aztec, New Mexico, Gladewater, Texas, and Fairview, Oklahoma, has more than 100 students on her routes, and she was gearing up for the challenge of getting to know them all.

But while the students might have started out as strangers to her, the town and the school district are not.

Richardson graduated from Charles Page High School in 1990. When her husband died in February, she said, I came back home.

Nerves? What nerves?

Amy Harris was all smiles last Tuesday morning as she dropped off third-grader Wyatt Harris and kindergartner Cole Harris for the first day of classes at Limestone Technology Academy.

Posing for photos outside the school, the boys themselves showed no sign of any worries.

Harris said her sons were thrilled to get to school.

Theyve been doing a dance all week, she said. We love Limestone.

Too cool for school

Limestone fourth-grade teacher Carrie Gustafson was equally eager for the new school year to begin.

Im excited, she said. Im excited, and the kids are excited.

Gustafson, who is in her seventh year of teaching, said she doesnt see too many first-day tears in her classroom.

Theyve kind of got it down by now, she said. By fourth grade, theyve kind of gotten the hang of it.

But does she still ever have any first-day jitters of her own?

Absolutely, she said. But after the first day it kind of goes away.

For Gustafson, who has 22 students in her self-contained classroom, the hardest part about the first day is getting all the kids names. I just want to try to learn them as fast as I can.

Home, sweet home

In the gymnasium early Tuesday for the schools daily Rise and Shine assembly, new Limestone teacher Charity Emigh said she had a few first-day jitters but that it could have been worse.

Although Emigh was new to Limestone as a teacher, she was far from new to the building, having attended the school herself as a child.

Its home, she said. It just feels like coming back home. Im able to navigate the hallways and the school easily. I can tell kids where theyre supposed to go.

Its just all very familiar,  but its all new and exciting at the same time, said Emigh, who has been a teacher for five years.

She said she hadnt seen any actual tears yet.

They all seem to be in pretty high spirits, she said of the children, although Ive seen some timidness.

Wheres the music?

Tiffany Cooper might have looked a little timid sitting in the cafeteria at the Sixth Grade Center listening to teachers and school administrators calling out instructions for where students should go.

But Tiffany, 12, was actually just taking it all in.

She said she was excited about school but also kind of nervous. Kind of happiness but a little bit nerves.

Enrolled in choir, she said of her favorite subject, I like singing and dancing.

Theres nothing better

Superintendent Sherry Durkee might not have been ready to sing or dance, but by late in the week, she was pretty pleased with how the school year had gotten started.

A small transportation glitch left some students waiting longer for a bus ride home from school than anyone was happy about, she said, but the situation was resolved by Day 3.

And the heat has been crazy hard, crazy hot, she said.

But all in all, Durkee was pleased.

My words are nervous energy. It comes when were excited, she said. Theres always nervous energy. All kinds of things run through your mind, certainly in my role,  (but) we want it to be the best it can be.

Were excited to teach. Were excited to provide the best possible education for our kids, Durkee said. And when that excitement happens and everything comes together, theres nothing better.
A community bank has agreed to invest $1.15 million in a settlement agreement with the U.S. Justice Department on allegations of lending discrimination in historically Black neighborhoods.

American Bank of Oklahoma was accused by the Justice Department of lending discrimination by redlining in Tulsa, including in historically Black neighborhoods that were the site of the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre.

Federal prosecutors also alleged that emails from bank employees, including executives and loan officers, contained racial slurs and racist content.

The bank will invest at least $950,000 in a loan subsidy fund for residents of majority-Black and Hispanic neighborhoods in the Tulsa area. A Justice Department news release says $100,000 will fund advertising, outreach and consumer education, with another $100,000 for development of community partnerships to provide services that increase access to residential mortgage credit.

ABOK denies the allegations but has agreed to resolve the matter to avoid the cost and distraction of protracted litigation, the bank said in a news release.

In addition to a Tulsa office, the bank has branches or mortgage offices in Collinsville, Disney, Muskogee, Owasso, Ramona and Skiatook, according to its website.

The complaint  alleges that, from 2017 through at least 2021, American Bank of Oklahoma failed to provide mortgage lending services to majority-Black and Hispanic neighborhoods in the Tulsa metropolitan area, the Justice Department said in the press release.

Specifically, the department alleges that all American Bank of Oklahomas branches and loan production offices were located in majority-white neighborhoods, that the bank designated a service area that excluded all majority-Black and Hispanic-census tracts in the metropolitan area, and that the bank failed to appropriately monitor and address fair lending risk.

As a result, the banks loan officers did not serve the credit needs of Black and Hispanic neighborhoods in and around Tulsa, and the banks actions reinforced and perpetuated segregated housing patterns because of race, color, or national origin.

The complaint also alleges that bank employees, including executives and loan officers, sent and received emails on their work email accounts containing racial slurs and racist content.

As Oklahomans, we carry a profound sense of sorrow for the tragic events of the Tulsa Race Massacre over a century ago, the bank said in its release.

It is with deep concern that we note the Justice Departments decision to reference this distressing historical event in its complaint against our bank, established a mere 25 years ago.

ABOK stands as a small community bank, with $383 million in assets and constrained resources, endeavoring to maintain competitiveness within the City of Tulsa. Despite our limitations, we remain resolute in our commitment to expand lending initiatives and foster financial inclusivity for the residents of Tulsa.

The bank said it has been an active supporter of schools in its communities and is a proud sponsor of financial education courses for students in north Tulsa public schools.

We are excited about the opportunity to apply our community banking model in north and northeast Tulsa and look forward to expanding ways we can help members of the communities with their banking and lending needs, said ABOK Chairman and CEO Joe Landon.

Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Departments Civil Rights Division said that providing equal access to credit is essential in every community, but the painful history of Tulsa makes this agreement particularly poignant because the redlined areas include historically Black neighborhoods that have endured the legacy of racial violence and the continuing effects of segregation and discrimination.

This agreement will help expand investment in Black communities and communities of color in Tulsa and increase opportunities for homeownership and financial stability, she continued. Remedial provisions in the agreement will open opportunities for building generational wealth while focusing on neighborhoods that bear the scars of the Tulsa Race Massacre.

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Art Haddaway Owasso Reporter Editor Follow Art Haddaway Close Get email notifications on {{subject}} daily! Your notification has been saved. There was a problem saving your notification. {{description}} Email notifications are only sent once a day, and only if there are new matching items. Save Manage followed notifications Close Followed notifications Please log in to use this feature Log In Don't have an account? Sign Up Today

Related content Asbury in south Tulsa splits from United Methodist Church, changes name amid denomination talks

OWASSO  The First United Methodist Church of Owasso voted this week to disaffiliate from the United Methodist Church.

Congregants voted 233-37 on Sunday to separate from the denomination based on doctrinal and theological disagreements regarding human sexuality.

It was painful and divisive, and we are praying for all members of our church because we were not all of one mind, Pastor Jim Cinocca told the Owasso Reporter.

Sundays vote came after more than a year of discernment when the Owasso First United Methodist Church Council unanimously recommended a departure from the UMC based on its beliefs that the denomination is increasingly ungovernable and clergy leaders no longer hold a traditional Christian doctrine, the official recommendation states.

The document further cites the denominations alleged inconsistency in following its Book of Discipline as it relates to same-sex marriage and ordination of LGBTQ clergy, as outlined in the UMCs Traditional Plan, which was passed at its 2019 Special Session of General Conference.

Amid growing concerns shared by other UMC-affiliated churches across the nation, the UMC amended its Book of Discipline that year to allow congregations, such as Owassos, to leave the denomination based on reasons of conscience related to action surrounding the decisions of that conference.

The Owasso churchs vote to disaffiliate by an overwhelming margin of 86% will go before a special annual conference in mid-October that will cast a final vote to approve its official separation from the denomination. The disaffiliation will allow the congregation to keep the property, at 13800 E. 106th St. North, before the option to do so sunsets Dec. 31.

The local church, in operation for over 117 years, has approximately 450 active congregants and joins more than 6,100 Methodist congregations in the U.S. that have already disaffiliated from the UMC, including 84 Oklahoma churches previously approved for separation. Cinocca said the Owasso congregation has not been made aware of what it will cost to disaffiliate.

After paying the disaffiliation fee, we will no longer pay apportionments to the Oklahoma Conference of the United Methodist Church, but we will be free to support any United Methodist mission/organization we choose, such as Restore Hope, UMCOR, Circle of Care, the Owasso churchs recommendation says.

About 45 other churches across the state are in various stages of the discernment/disaffiliation process, the Oklahoman has reported, with the special Oklahoma United Methodist Conference meeting set for Oct. 13-14.

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KNOXVILLE, Tennessee  Thats where I got shot, said Rashaad Woods, nodding toward a convenience store in Knoxville's gun zone. There were bullet holes in a churchs walls. Nearby was a shuttered nightclub where some people were killed.

There was a point in time I wasnt comfortable standing here, said Kodi Mills, 45. But that time is passing.

The men work for Turn Up Knox, a year-old program that mentors kids and defuses situations that could escalate into violence. Its a centerpiece of the Tennessee citys attempt to follow a science-based playbook in fighting a surge in shootings.

Research reviews have begun to conclude theres enough evidence to say which public health interventions prevent shootings, which don't, and which need more study. Knoxville is one of a growing number of cities teaming with researchers to develop an evidence-based plan to stop the bleeding.

Knoxvilles program includes policing changes and other efforts. However, it does not count on new gun restrictions. That was important, since Tennessee has repeatedly moved to loosen gun laws.

I wanted to have answers, Knoxville Mayor Indya Kincannon said.

Nearly non-existent until recently, gun violence prevention research has experienced a small boom in the wake of mounting shooting deaths, expanded funding and burgeoning advocacy.

Two decades ago, only about 20 U.S. researchers were focused on gun violence prevention. Last fall, more then 600 gathered in Washington, D.C., for a national conference on the issue.

Funding continues to be just a fraction of money spent on other leading causes of death. Still, research has just exploded in the last few years, said Rebecca Cunningham, a researcher at the University of Michigan.

The work addresses the worst firearm violence in decades. Researchers estimate there were more than 48,000 firearm deaths last year, with gun-related homicide and suicide rates not seen since the early 1990s. Gunshots are the leading cause of death of U.S. children and teenagers.

Though some big questions remain, there's a growing consensus about what policies make a difference  and which dont.

According to an assessment by the Rand Corp., measures that work include laws that permit charging adults who let children have unsupervised access to guns, well-enforced background checks and policies that ban guns from people subject to domestic violence restraining orders.

Measures that dont: stand-your-ground and concealed carry laws, which studies show increase gun homicides; and gun buyback programs, which have been shown to have little, if any, effect on crime.

About 16% of Knoxvilles population is Black, and about 40% live in poverty, many in East Knoxville, where firearm violence has surged.

As in other U.S. cities, violence escalated during the COVID-19 pandemic, when adults were out of work, kids weren't in school and people were anxious.

Before that homicides hovered around 20 per year. That shot up to 38 in 2020 and rose again to 41 in 2021, giving Knoxville a gun homicide rate rivaling Chicagos.

As shootings accelerated, Kincannon turned to Thomas Abt, whose book, Bleeding Out, offers a plan for cities that includes having police and community organizations work together.

Crucially, Abt's program doesnt count on policymakers to take action to restrict gun access. That was key, because Tennessees state government has been moving in the opposite direction.

In 2021, the state started letting people carry handguns  visibly, or concealed  without a permit. This year, the minimum age for carrying handguns dropped to 18.

Even after a mass shooting that killed three children and three staff at an elementary school in Nashville this year, the state Legislatures Republican majority fought calls for tougher gun laws. Two Black representatives who protested the inaction were expelled.

Kincannon supports expanded background checks and other gun-control measures, but said Knoxvilles efforts are designed to make a difference no matter what happens legislatively.

Knoxville became the first city to sign up with Abts program at the Center for the Study and Practice of Violence Reduction at the University of Maryland, which teamed with an outside researcher to analyze the city's violent crime.

There were a few surprises, said Knoxville Deputy Police Chief Tony Willis. The average age of shooting suspects was 28 and for victims, 29  an unexpectedly large proportion much older than I expected, he said. And only 12% of homicides were solely gang-related, much lower than anticipated, Willis said.

One goal is to increase public trust in law enforcement, which was sometimes abysmal.

We would have someone get killed in broad daylight, with a lot of witnesses, but no one wanted to talk, Kincannon said. We need to build trust.

The city funded Turn Up Knox, which uses ex-offenders, violence survivors and other community members to identify those most likely to be shot, or to become shooters in the future.

They mentor teenagers and are teaching families how to mediate conflicts and deal with the trauma that follows shootings. When someone is in danger of a revenge shooting, they give them a bus ticket to get out of town for a few days.

Its too early to say if the steps are making a difference.

There were 36 homicides last year, down from 41 the year before. But firearm homicides fell nationally last year, and experts aren't sure why. In the first six months of this year, Knoxville had 15 homicides, down from 18 in the same period last year.

Gun control legislation that passed and failed over the last 20 years Gun control legislation that passed and failed over the last 20 years Tiahrt Amendment Protection of Lawful Commerce in Arms Act District of Columbia v. Heller Expanded background checks Lori Jackson Domestic Violence Survivor Protection Act Domestic Violence Gun Homicide Prevention Act of 2014 Homemade Firearms Accountability Act Denying Firearms and Explosives to Dangerous Terrorists Act of 2015 Criminalizing straw purchasing and gun trafficking Enhanced background checks 72-hour waiting period for those on terrorist watch lists Help End Assault Rifle Tragedies Act Preventing Gun Violence Act Gun Show Loophole Closing Act of 2017 Handgun Safety Trigger Act Background Check Completion Act of 2017 Bipartisan bump stock ban Closing the Charleston loophole Universal background checks Bipartisan Safer Communities Act Protecting Our Kids Act Assault Weapons Ban of 2022
Barbara Hoberock Tulsa World Capitol Bureau Staff Writer Follow Barbara Hoberock Close Get email notifications on {{subject}} daily! Your notification has been saved. There was a problem saving your notification. {{description}} Email notifications are only sent once a day, and only if there are new matching items. Save Manage followed notifications Close Followed notifications Please log in to use this feature Log In Don't have an account? Sign Up Today

Related content The Tulsa World's coverage of State Superintendent Ryan Walters

OKLAHOMA CITY  House Democrats on Tuesday asked Speaker Charles McCall to begin the process of impeaching State Superintendent Ryan Walters.

House Minority Leader Cyndi Munson, D-Oklahoma City, asked McCall to form a bipartisan special committee to investigate Walters, a Republican whose rhetoric is being blamed by some for school bomb threats in the Tulsa area.

Leader Munson did not discuss this issue of impeachment with me before holding a press conference, said McCall, R-Atoka. Impeachment is not something that should be taken lightly, and a call by a group of House Democrats seems to be more of a ready, fire, aim approach.

House Democrats held a Capitol press conference to publicize a list of their complaints about Walters.

Munson cited Walters consistent pattern of inflammatory language aimed at our public education teachers, outright lies and targeted attacks on local control, along with a continued criminal investigation into the potential financial mismanagement of State Department of Education funds and continued refusal to cooperate in good faith with lawmakers.

Tulsa World Opinion podcast: Did Tulsa Public Schools and Superintendent Deborah Gist warrant scrutiny? Rep. John Waldron (a former Booker T. Washington teacher) and Ginnie Graham reflect on Tulsa Public Schools under Superintendent Deborah Gist and the state board's criticism of TPS under her leadership.

She cited several instances in which special House committees have been used to conduct investigations.

Rep. Melissa Provenzano, D-Tulsa, said she and other lawmakers are receiving daily text messages, emails and phone calls from constituents demanding that lawmakers take action.

Our teachers have been subject to frequent attacks, and the constant barrage of insults and lies lodged at them and against them  created (an even more) dire teacher shortage, Provenzano said.

She said Oklahoma colleges and universities have also come under fire, with Walters commenting that students should not attend them.

Vendor contracts have been renewed late, while a delay in the notification of Title 1 federal dollars has put school districts in hiring and budget crunches, she added.

Additionally, the state Department of Educations lack of application for federal grants under Walters direction has potentially cost the state $272 million, Provenzano said.

Finally, Walters needs to explain why he mismanaged federal Governors Emergency Education Relief funds, called GEER funds, she said. Walters gave blanket approval for spending the funds without a stitch of oversight, she said.

It is time we stand up together regardless of party and take the time to investigate and ask: Do these behaviors suggest incompetence, corruption, lack of moral turpitude, or a willful neglect of duty? she said. It sure feels like it, but now we need the facts all in one spot to determine what needs to be done next and to support and protect our public education systems.

Senate Minority Leader Kay Floyd, D-Oklahoma City, said her caucus supports the call for a special bipartisan committee to investigate Walters, saying the bomb threats are a direct result of reckless rhetoric and must be addressed.

Elective state officers can be impeached for willful neglect of duty, corruption in office, habitual drunkenness, incompetency or any offense involving moral turpitude committed while in office, according to Article VIII of the Oklahoma Constitution.

If the House votes to impeach, a trial is held in the Senate and requires the concurrence of two-thirds of the senators present, according to the Oklahoma Constitution.

These liberal Democrats will stop at nothing to defend their union bosses and push a radical agenda on our kids, said Dan Isett, Oklahoma State Department of Education communications director. In seeking to remove a popularly elected constitutional officer, they represent a direct threat to our democracy. Its shameful, and Oklahomans wont be fooled.

Superintendent Walters is fighting to ensure Oklahoma parents have a place at the table and Oklahoma kids have a brighter future.

Walters defeated Democrat Jena Nelson with 56.78% of the vote on Nov. 8, 2022.

Walters recently has been highly critical of Tulsa Public Schools for academic performance and financial management, and his calls for the removal of Superintendent Deborah Gist and threats to take over the district led to her decision to leave her post in mid-September.
Vietnam still tops the list of rice exporters in the world in terms of rice export prices, with its 5-percent broken rice selling for US$638 per tonne last Friday.

The rate rose $105 per tonne compared to July 19, when India was yet to ban rice exports.

On July 20, India's government announced that it would stop exporting non-basmati white rice, effective immediately.

The price of Vietnams 25-percent broken rice was quoted at $623 per tonne on the same day, up $110 a tonne, the Vietnam News Agency reported, citing the Vietnam Food Association.

The export price of Thailands 5-percent broken rice stood at $628 per tonne, while Pakistans rice was priced at $598 a metric ton.

The rice export prices kept soaring last weekend following Indias decision made on the same occasion to impose a 20-percent duty on exports of parboiled rice with immediate effect until October 16.

The move might further reduce shipments from the world's largest rice exporter and lift global rice prices, which are already trading near their highest levels in 12 years, Dau Tu (Investment) newspaper reported.

Indias prohibition on rice exports is aimed at lowering rice prices and securing availability in the country.

In the Vietnamese market, raw rice prices have fluctuated over the past few days.

Many provinces and cities in the Mekong Delta region, considered Vietnam's 'rice bowl,' have seen raw rice prices hit new record highs, benefiting farmers.

Statistics from the Institute of Policy and Strategy for Agriculture and Rural Development indicated that the prices of raw rice in Can Tho City remained stable.

The city is quoting medium-grade raw rice (IR50404) at VND8,200 (34 U.S. cents) per kilogram, while raw OM 4218 fragrant rice is priced at VND9,000 (37 cents) per kilogram.

In Soc Trang Province, raw Dai Thom grains are quoted at VND8,500 (35 cents) per kilogram, down VND100 per kilogram against the previous week.

Meanwhile, the price of raw IR 50404 rice in Hau Giang Province improved by VND100, at VND8,500 a kilogram. OM 18 grains sell for VND8,800 (36 cents) per kilogram, up VND200.

Tien Giang, Kien Giang, Ben Tre, Dong Thap, and An Giang Provinces in the delta have seen the prices of raw rice varieties either increase or decrease VND100 or VND200 per kilogram.

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Paris will on Friday become the first European capital to ban floating electric scooters from its streets, leaving fans desolate but relieving those who loathed their "nuisance" factor.

Residents voted by almost 90 percent in an April referendum to ban the scooters -- celebrated as a win for direct democracy by mayor Anne Hidalgo even though turnout was just 7.5 percent.

The ban applies to rental scooters which have been offered by several operators since 2018, although people will still be able to whizz through Paris on privately-owned contraptions.

With complaints of users jostling through pedestrians on pavements or dumping their rides awkwardly at intersections, the city's 15,000 two-wheeled machines from providers Tier, Lime and Dott had turned into "nuisances" for many Parisians, Hidalgo said at the time.

But "so many people were sad" at the decision, said Paris-based American influencer Amanda Rollins, 33, who often gets around by scooter -- one of 400,000 people to do so in 2022, according to figures from the operators.

"They're just so much fun!" she added, while noting that being able to just pick one up offers "a really reliable way to get home... like a safety net" on nights when the metro closes before the capital's bars.

The day scooters arrived in Paris in 2018 was "like Christmas... it was like Santa came overnight," she recalled, praising their use for tours of the city with friends and their practicality when stopping for a swift Instagram photoshoot.

'Turn of the page'

Paris "is a unique case" said Clement Pette, head of Tier's operations in France. "It's a major turn of the page".

By Friday, the Berlin-based firm had collected 3,000 of its 5,000 scooters, with growing red areas on its application's map showing parking forbidden in more and more of Paris each night as it loaded them into vans.

Only a small zone in central Paris will have scooters available until the wheels finally come off.

Like other operators, Tier's freshly-serviced machines will be heading to other cities where it offers scooter service.

Some Tier machines will remain in Paris' outskirts, with most returning to Germany or Warsaw, while Lime ships them to Lille, London, Copenhagen and German cities and Dott is set to send some as far away as Tel Aviv.

"We've turned the page on scooters" for the whole Paris region, said Xavier Mirailles, Lime's public affairs director.

Instead, like the other operators, Lime is betting on its fleet of 10,000 floating-hire bicycles, against around 5,000 offered by Tier.

Mixed impact

Removing floating scooters from Paris won't mean that they disappear from the capital's streets altogether, as many people have made the jump to owning their own -- or more exotic rides like electric monowheels.

"Shared electric scooters can be a gateway to acquiring a personal scooter," said Anne de Bortoli, a researcher at Montreal-based sustainability lab CIRAIG.

She highlighted that the scooters had begun to make an impact on emissions from Parisian transport in recent years, with second-generation models producing carbon emissions of around 60 grammes of CO2 per kilometre.

That was "more than a personal bike, the metro or suburban trains" -- the modes of transport most often replaced by scooter trips -- "but it also replaced some taxi rides and trips in personal cars", making for "slight gains in terms of carbon footprint".

"We have to change the way we get around as quickly as possible... scooters allowed people to access this mode of transport, to test it out, see if it met their needs. It often made people want to switch," de Bortoli said.

While the vehicles may have offered an environmental impact, they also took a toll on users, with 10 riders killed in France in July alone according to government data -- the country's heaviest-ever toll.

Announcing the figures earlier this month, road safety chief Florence Guillaume "strongly encouraged" scooter users to wear helmets, which have been made obligatory in some cities like Italy and Danish capital Copenhagen.
U.S. President Joe Biden will pay an official visit to Vietnam on September 10 and 11 at the invitation of Vietnamese Party General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong, Pham Thu Hang, spokesperson of the Vietnamese foreign ministry, announced on Tuesday.

Visits by top officials of the two nations will deepen the Vietnam-U.S. partnership, and make bilateral ties stable and long-lasting, contributing to peace, stability, and growth in the world, said Hang.

President Biden will travel to Hanoi on September 10 to start his two-day visit to Vietnam, and meet with top Vietnamese officials to discuss ways to further bolster the cooperation between Vietnam and the United States, according to a statement released by the White House on Monday.

"The leaders will explore opportunities to promote the growth of a technology-focused and innovation-driven Vietnamese economy, expand our people-to-people ties through education exchanges and workforce development programs, combat climate change, and increase peace, prosperity, and stability in the region," the statement reads.

Vietnam and the United States established diplomatic ties in 1995, and upgraded their relations to a comprehensive partnership in 2013.

President Bidens visit is aimed at marking the 10th anniversary of the Vietnam-U.S. comprehensive partnership.

U.S. Ambassador to Vietnam Marc Knapper said in a recent interview with Tuoi Tre (Youth) newspaper that about one-fourth of the U.S. cabinet members had visited Vietnam over the past eight months.

Five ministerial-level delegations of the United States had traveled to Vietnam as of the start of 2023. The most recent visit was made by U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen in July.

This will be President Biden's first visit to Vietnam since he took office in 2021.

After the two nations set up diplomatic ties, President Bill Clinton visited Vietnam in November 2000, followed by George W. Bush in November 2006 and Barack Obama in May 2016.

President Donald Trump paid two visits to Vietnam, in November 2017 to attend the 2017 Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) forum held in Da Nang City and in February 2019 for a summit with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un.

The United States is one of Vietnams biggest trade partners and is the latters top buyer with a value at over US$100 billion.

Two-way trade skyrocketed to more than $123 billion in 2022 from $451 million.

Bilateral ties have flourished in numerous fields over the years, Hang said at a regular press briefing in Hanoi on August 17.

Vietnam and the United States are discussing ways to deepen their partnership and potentially reach a higher-level relationship if conditions are conducive, she underlined.

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Hanoi resolutely objects to Taiwans live-fire exercises in the waters around Ba Binh (Itu Aba) Island, part of Vietnams Truong Sa (Spratly) archipelago in the East Vietnam Sea, and demands that Taiwan not repeat these actions in the future, Vietnams Ministry of Foreign Affairs said on Monday.

The ministrys spokesperson, Pham Thu Hang, made the objection in response to the medias questions about Vietnams reactions to the live-fire drills conducted by Taiwan.

The organization of such drills is a serious infringement upon Vietnams territorial sovereignty over Truong Sa, the spokeswoman told reporters in Hanoi.

She condemned this action as it poses a threat to peace, stability, maritime safety and security, causes tension and further complicates the situation in the East Vietnam Sea.

Vietnam firmly opposes and demands that Taiwan not repeat similar violations in the future, Hang stressed.

Ba Binh is the largest natural island in Truong Sa, which belongs to Vietnam but has been illegally occupied by Taiwan since 1956.

Vietnam has repeatedly proclaimed that it has enough historical evidence and legal foundation to prove its sovereignty over the Truong Sa and Hoang Sa (Paracel) archipelagoes in the East Vietnam Sea in accordance with international law, the spokesperson stated.

According to unverified information published in Taipei Times, Taiwan has deployed domestically-made Kestrel anti-armor missiles on Itu Aba to strengthen garrison defenses and anti-landing capabilities.

Taiwans Coast Guard forces have been stationed on the island in replacement of its Marines units, according to Taiwanese media.

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Vietnamese Minister of Foreign Affairs Bui Thanh Son and his Singaporean counterpart Vivian Balakrishnan enjoyed Vietnams world-famous pho and Hanois popular egg coffee together for breakfast in the Vietnamese capital city on Tuesday morning.

Following their meal of beef pho at a restaurant along Ly Thuong Kiet Street in Hoan Kiem District, the two ministers visited a sidewalk cafe to savor egg coffee while taking in the sights of Hanoi.

Tuesdays morning was the first time Singapores Foreign Minister Balakrishnan had tried egg coffee.

Singaporean Minister of Foreign Affairs Vivian Balakrishnan (in beige shirt) and his Vietnamese counterpart Bui Thanh Son (opposite) enjoy a meal of pho at a restaurant in Hanoi, August 29, 2023. Photo: Nguyen Khanh / Tuoi Tre

As Balakrishnan displayed curiosity over the unique coffee that has drawn the interest of locals and foreigners visiting Hanoi in recent years, Minister Son offered guidance on how to enjoy this beverage while explaining its preparation method to his counterpart.

A cup of egg coffee, which is usually served hot, consists of a creamy whisked mixture of egg yolk, sugar, and sweet condensed milk on top of the hot black coffee underneath.

Singaporean Minister of Foreign Affairs Vivian Balakrishnan (in beige shirt) enjoys a cup of egg coffee at a sidewalk cafe in Hanoi, August 29, 2023. Photo: Nguyen Khanh / Tuoi Tre

This warm and personal gathering took place amidst Singaporean Prime Minister Lee Hsien Longs three-day visit to Vietnam from Sunday to Tuesday.

The two foreign ministers engaged in discussions regarding matters of mutual interest for their respective nations and delved into the exploration of Vietnamese culture, history, and people.

The two diplomats had a memorable lunch together at Maxwell Food Center in Singapore on July 18 during Minister Sons first visit to the island country.

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Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh and his Singaporean counterpart Lee Hsien Loong, together with their spouses, visited the Vietnam National University-Hanoi, discussed numerous topics, and had lunch with some students there on Tuesday.

As part of the top Singaporean officials ongoing Vietnam visit, his trip to the university was meant to strengthen the two nations cooperation in education and training.

During the meeting with the two prime ministers, many students at the university showed their interest in Singapores education, technology, and innovation.

Singaporean Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong (C) and his Vietnamese counterpart Pham Minh Chinh (R) are pictured while meeting with students at the Vietnam National University-Hanoi on August 29, 2023. Photo: Nguyen Khanh / Tuoi Tre

Responding to a question about Singapores measures to keep the environment clean, PM Lee said that the nation has tried to let residents use public means of transport, helping reduce private vehicles.

This is an effective way to minimize environmental pollution, he said.

A student at the Vietnam National University-Hanoi puts a question to the prime ministers of Vietnam and Singapore, August 29, 2023. Photo: Nguyen Khanh / Tuoi Tre

He also said that Singapore has launched various awareness campaigns to encourage residents to join hands to protect the living environment. The responsibility for environmental protection has been taken into account at schools.

Some acts of protecting the environment are growing trees, taking care of plants each day, and making the living environment clean and green.

Thu Hong, a student at the university, asked which knowledge and skills students should be equipped with to meet manpower requirements amid the booming use of artificial intelligence.

PM Lee said that young people should study hard and grasp knowledge about their majors. They should never quit studying and always upskill to suit the fast-changing world.

PM Chinh told the meeting with the university students that Vietnam is focusing on digitalization and green transition in an attempt to minimize damage from climate change which is a headache for the world.

As such, the country will deepen its cooperation with other nations, including Singapore, which has a lot of experience in these fields.

The Vietnam-Singapore partnership will smooth the path for the two nations young people to study and join the digital and green economy development journey, said PM Lee.

The two prime ministers also witnessed the signing of cooperative agreements between the Vietnam National University-Hanoi, the Vietnam National University-Ho Chi Minh City, and Singapores Nanyang Technological University to exchange lecturers and students, while boosting scientific research.

After the meeting with the university students, the top Vietnamese and Singaporean officials had lunch with some students at the canteen of the University of Languages and International Studies under the Vietnam National University-Hanoi.

The two prime ministers savored a few famous traditional dishes such as banh cuon (steamed rice rolls with savory fillings), bun thang (Vietnamese chicken soup), and nem (fried fermented pork rolls).

PM Lee and his entourage touched down at Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi late on Sunday afternoon, beginning his three-day visit at the invitation of his Vietnamese counterpart Chinh.

This is PM Lee's fifth visit to Vietnam since he took office in 2004.

PM Lees trip marks the 50th anniversary of Vietnam-Singapore diplomatic ties and the 10th anniversary of a strategic partnership between the two countries.

His trip is also meant to reciprocate PM Chinh's visit to the city-state in February.

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Two women in Ca Mau Province, southern Vietnam were rushed to hospital on Sunday for methanol poisoning after drinking liquor brought home from Tay Ninh Province, about 400km apart.

Dr. Ma Nhon Khiem, head of the intensive care and anti-poison department at Ca Mau General Hospital, said on Monday night that the hospital was treating two patients with methanol poisoning.

T.B.X., a 33-year-old resident of Ta An Khuong Commune in Dam Doi District, and her 23-year-old niece, named Q.T.M., who lives in Tac Van Commune under Ca Mau City, were taken to the hospital in critical condition. They suffered vomiting, impaired vision, and fatigue.

They were diagnosed with critical methanol poisoning.

M.s health has improved, but she is still on a ventilator. Meanwhile, X. remains in critical condition, Dr. Khiem said.

The patients family said that a day before being hospitalized, the two had a drinking party with some of their friends at M.s house in Tac Van Commune.

However, just M. and X. drank the liquor that originated in Tay Ninh Province, about 400km away, while the others drank beer.

Fake liquor often contains methanol, a poisonous alcohol usually used for industrial purposes.

Methanol poisoning can cause confusion, dizziness, drowsiness, headaches, impaired vision, and even death, according to the Ministry of Health.

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The long-lasting heatwave and declining rainfall have been drying the Ke Go irrigation dam, which provides water for farming and daily activities for thousands of households in Ha Tinh Province, located in north-central Vietnam.

Tuoi Tre (Youth) newspaper reporters during a visit to the reservoir on Monday discovered that the amount of water in the dam was critically low, making many parts of the reservoir bed visible.

Situated in Cam My Commune, Cam Xuyen District, the Ke Go irrigation dam was built in 1976 with a capacity of 345 million cubic meters. It provides water for agricultural production and daily activities of dwellers in Cam Xuyen District, Thach Ha District, and Ha Tinh City.

According to a leader of Nam Ha Tinh Irrigation Company, which manages and operates the dam, water levels are extremely low around this time of the year and this situation has occurred over the past few years.

The current water level in the dam is 17.26 meters high, with some 45.5 million cubic meters of water left.

The depleting volume of water has affected operations of some water supply plants in the area. If this situation persists, the water supply for agricultural production will be impacted.

A representative of the Bac Cam Xuyen water supply plant, which uses water provided by the Ke Go reservoir, told Tuoi Tre that the plant is unable to take untreated water from the dam for use due to the critically-low water level.

Instead, it opted for a backup plan in which it gets water supplied by the Boc Nguyen reservoir, which spans Cam Xuyen and Thach Ha, to serve its operations.

This plan also called on local residents to stock up on water to avoid the probable shortfall of clean water happening on some days when the plant temporarily stops supplying water.

Situated in Cam My Commune, Cam Xuyen District, the Ke Go irrigation dam was built in 1976 with a capacity of 345 million cubic meters. Photo: Le Minh / Tuoi Tre

The water level in the dam is extremely low around this time of the year and this situation has occurred over the past few years. Photo: Le Minh / Tuoi Tre

The dried-up Ke Go irrigation dam. Photo: Le Minh / Tuoi Tre

The Bac Cam Xuyen water supply plant, which uses water provided by the Ke Go reservoir, said that the plant is unable to take untreated water from the dam for use due to the critically-low water level. Photo: Le Minh / Tuoi Tre

Local residents were called on to stock up on water to avoid the probable shortfall of clean water happening on some days when the plant temporarily stops supplying water. Photo: Le Minh / Tuoi Tre

The critically-low water level also makes an aging dyke of the Ke Go reservoir visible. Photo: Le Minh / Tuoi Tre

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Property series Luxe Listings Sydney, which previously screened on Prime Video, gets a Free to Air screening this week on Nine.

The series from Eureka Productions follows real estate agents Gavin Rubinstein and DLeanne Lewis, and buyers agent Simon Cohen as they negotiate multi-million-dollar deals in one of the most luxury real estate markets in the world.

Three seasons have been produced so far.

Sydney is home to some of the most expensive and extravagant real estate in the world, and the brand-new trailer released today for Australian Amazon Original series Luxe Listings Sydney provides a glimpse inside some of those stunning homes  from an awe-inspiring property on Sydneys Billionaires Row to a multi-million-dollar mansion with a private beach. Viewers also get a sneak peek at all the drama, egos and ruthless competition that go hand in hand with the fast-paced, high-stakes world of buying and selling high-end luxury properties in Sydney.

Luxe Listings Sydney features renowned Sydney real estate agents Gavin Rubinstein and DLeanne Lewis, along with esteemed buyers agent Simon Cohen. These agents are among the best in the world, self-made experts in their field and are hungry to deliver premier results for their clients.

The dynamic trio will showcase some of the most breath-taking homes in the exclusive Sydney property market, complete with stunning harbour views, iconic beachfront backdrops and unrivalled grandeur. Luxe Listings Sydney will showcase over a quarter of a billion dollars worth of Sydney real estate during season one.

An Australian Amazon Original unscripted series Luxe Listings Sydney will follow the agents intense professional operations and their extraordinary personal lives.

Luxe Listings Sydney is executive produced by Eureka Productions Chris Culvenor, Paul Franklin, Rikkie Proost and Sophia Mogford along with executive producers Ben Scott and James Kennedy through Kentel.

8:45pm Wednesday on Nine.
Former Q+A host Stan Grant has rejected headlines of a bullying complaint after an exchange with an ABC producer in the broadcasters Ultimo foyer.

The Australian pursued documents under the Freedom of Information Act and alleged a lengthy, expletive-laden tirade took place in late January with a senior colleague, in front of other staff, after they approached him with a production question.

The Australian is not suggesting Grant committed any wrongdoing, only that a complaint was lodged and investigated, the newspaper reported, but not filed by the person involved.

Stan Grant has since told Guardian Australia it was a story which completely misrepresents everything, when theres been no complaint, no finding, nothing.

Grant did admit he lost it when he was approached by the colleague because he was talking to a friend about his distress about his niece dying and his father being ill.

In a post on LinkedIn, he hit back at a smear campaign by media.

Earlier this year I was involved in an unfortunate disagreement with a respected colleague, he wrote. I was deep in conversation in the ABC foyer with a friend and colleague who was consoling me over the sudden death of my niece 24 hours earlier. I had also just returned from caring for my elderly ailing father. I was in an emotionally fragile state.

A colleague approached me in what I and the witness felt was a confrontational manner.

Things escalated in a way they should not and things were said that were not acceptable. I accept responsibility for this. I should have behaved better.

In hindsight I should not have been at work but I felt an obligation to host Q+A before driving to be with my family and deliver the eulogy at my nieces funeral.

According to Guardian, ABC management did discuss the incident with both parties who have conflicting accounts of what took place, but there was no formal complaint. No one who witnessed the incident has described it as bullying but rather as a single altercation.

But Grant was also unhappy with the way ABC handled the incident.

The ABC typically has failed to tell the truth, he wrote. Instead it is hiding behind bureaucracy. The ABC crafted a statement which I rejected. I believe the truth is more important.

My family this year has been subject to horrendous racial abuse and violent threat. The ABC failed to adequately defend me. This past year I have felt used by the ABC and abused by others. This is destroying my family. I left the ABC because trust is broken. I left the media because I dont believe it serves us well. It divides and it doesnt care who it hurts. It is toxic. I have been part of the problem for too long. I am so sorry my colleague has been dragged into this. No one deserves this.
Sobiya Inamdar/ TwoCircles.net

Nadia Aslam, a resident of Panjim, Goa has always had a love for baking cakes. She used to bake delicious cakes for get-togethers and her close friends, but that changed when she went to college to study textile designing. She started a boutique business for a few years after college before having her first child. Nadia returned to making cakes as a career in 2016 after a gap of two years to devote more time to caring for her newborn.

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I shifted from designing clothes to designing cakes, the 40-year-old cake artist explained to Two Circles.

Nadia has baked over 2000 cakes and pastry products, including cupcakes, for weddings, birthdays, and corporate events in the last seven years.

Challenges Faced in the Baking Business

Nadia faced several hurdles at the start of her professional career as a pastry artist. I began very small. Because I used to earn little money, I would reinvest it in buying more stuff to meet the requirements, she explained.

Nadia and her family used to live in a modest residential society that didnt have a lift or enough space in the flat where she could set up her baking business in the early years. For the business and classes, I needed space and a lift for efficient transportation because the bakery products are very fragile, she explained.

Nadia moved to a larger flat for the sake of her business endeavour. Then after four years of baking at home, she rented a small property solely for cake production and hired an employee.

One of the major issues Nadia still encounters is a power outage while baking cakes, as well as bad roads, which leads to the fraying of the cake.

According to Nadia, it takes 17 hours to prepare, make, bake, and decorate a single cake. It became difficult when she began receiving orders for great corporate events and large parties. She said her customers want her to focus more on the decoration and general presentation of the sweet delicacies, which takes a lot of time and work.

Earlier Nadia was preoccupied with household chores, raising children, and running the cake shop. It messed up my sleep schedule, and I was frequently sleep-deprived, she explained.

Men Should Encourage Their Wives: Nadia Receives Support From Her Family

Nadia faced challenges, but she also received tremendous emotional support for her business from her family. Her husband, Rehan Shaikh, was always encouraging and helpful, from getting baking supplies to delivering cake orders.

Men should encourage their wives, said Rehan, beaming with pride at her success. Shaikh is in charge of handling the accounting of the cake business.

Nadia is assisted by her three children, aged 17, 14, and 12, in addition to her husband and two employees. My kids help me after school and during the holidays, she explained.

Teaching Women How to Bake

Nadia shared her experiences as a Muslim Hijabi pastry artist. We Muslim women can financially support our families while practicing Islam and following its guidelines, she said.

Nadia stated that her mother, a former beautician, is her greatest inspiration.

Aside from baking cakes, Nadia offers paid baking workshops that last two to three months and has taught hundreds of women how to bake and decorate cakes. Nadia hopes to build an academy where women bakers learn from chefs from all over the world.

The Moist choco truffle is the most popular item in her diverse menu of cakes. Its my customers all-time favourite item, and they often come back to request more, she explained.

Receives Order From Across India

Nadia does not currently own a shop, but she receives a large number of orders through her Instagram and Facebook pages.

We not only get orders from Goa, but also from Mumbai, Maharashtra, Belgaum, Bangalore, Tamil Nadu, and other places, she explained. Nadia uses roadways to deliver cakes within 100 kilometers of Goa, and railways to deliver cakes to Mumbai, Belgaum, and other distant locations.

Nadia received multiple awards for her cake-making abilities, including the Star of the Month award from Gowomania Goa, an organisation of Gaon women, in 2017.

Sobiya Inamdar is an independent reporter based in India
Malaysia pet food company Petico acquires Singapore's Perromart. (PHOTO: Petico)

SINGAPORE  Petico has acquired the assets of Perromart, Singapore's defunct pet food retailer, the Malaysian company announced on Monday (28 August).

Petico said that the acquisition is part of its strategic growth plans to enter Singapore's lucrative pet food market and expand its regional footprint in Southeast Asia.

The company cited figures from Statista in its release on Monday. It said that according to Statista, "the pet food industry in Singapore was valued at US$130.90 million (S$177.45 million) in 2022 and is expected to grow by more than 5 per cent annually in the next five years".

"This strategic acquisition will allow us to fast track our Southeast Asia expansion plans. We will also expand our offering of high quality, nutritious pet food to Singapore pet owners, including some exciting new brands we are bringing to Southeast Asia," said David Choy, who co-founded Petco in 2019 along with Ashwin Kumar, Ben Fong and Esther Loo.

Petico currently has 12 stores across Malaysia. It also offers pet care services such as veterinary and grooming service.

The company acquired all of Perromart's assets, which includes its inventory, customer data, domain name, warehouse equipment and fittings, and IP rights for Perromart's inhouse brands in Singapore and Malaysia.

However, Petico's acquisition does not include Perromart's liabilites, such as bank loans and trade creditors. Perromart, a pet food company owned by 25 Holdings, became insolvent and was placed in receivership in March after eight years in business.

Choy said that as a "goodwill gesture", Petico has offered vouchers to Perromart customers affected by delivery fulfilment issues. The credit vouchers offer S$10 off orders of more than S$100.

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He added that Petico is retaining the Perromart brand name for the foreseeable future and may consider opening a flagship store if the opportunity arises.

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Lord Alan Haworth (Image: Parliament)

Blackburn-born Labour peer Lord Alan Haworth has died aged 75, the party has confirmed.

Lord Haworth was a secretary of the parliamentary Labour Party from 1992 to 2004, then became a member of the House of Lords.

The party said he died on Monday morning on holiday in Iceland with wife Maggie Rae.

The pair had been on a cruise of Greenland and Iceland when Lord Haworth fell ill last week. He was helicoptered to hospital in the capital Reykjavik and was treated for bacterial pneumonia.

He died of a heart attack on Monday morning.

Lord Haworth attended St Silas CE Primary School, Clematis Street, and in 1959 went to Blackburn Technical and Grammar School, which later became Billinge High, then Beardwood High.

At 20 he went to St Andrew's University to study medicine but withdrew and took a place at the Barking Regional College of Technology, where he gained a degree in sociology. Lord Haworth has been married to Ms Rae, a lawyer, since 1991 and lived in London. He was also a minor shareholder in Blackburn Rovers.

Ms Rae praised the doctors and nurses who treated her husband.

She said: I am obviously heartbroken but I cannot speak highly enough of the Icelandic health service and the doctors and nurses who looked after him.

I will never be able to thank them properly for their kindness and their professionalism.

Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer led tributes to the Blackburn-born peer, who had a keen interest in the partys history, co-authoring a book on the first 29 Labour MPs elected in 1906.

Alan Haworth was a dedicated servant of the Labour Party and a diligent student of its history, said Sir Keir.

Alan worked for the party in both the House of Commons as PLP secretary and then in the House of Lords as a working peer, without fuss or fanfare but with an absolute determination to make life better for working people.

He played a key role in delivering Labours 1997 landslide and ensuring the party was re-elected. Alan will be greatly missed on both the green and red benches in Parliament.

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My thoughts are with Maggie and all his family and friends at this terrible time.

Labours leader in the House of Lords, Baroness Angela Smith, said: Alan was Labour to his core with an entertaining, warm-hearted and encyclopaedic knowledge of parliamentary colleagues past and present.

He was great company and held the respect and affection of all in the Labour Peers Group.

I am shocked at this news and will miss him dearly.

Former Labour prime minister Sir Tony Blair said: Alan was one of my close friends, a wonderful, warm and witty companion.

You never had a dull evening with Alan, and I had many of them. And there was no one whose counsel I found wiser or more perceptive. He and Maggie were fantastic hosts, generous and loving friends.

Of course Alan was a huge Labour Party stalwart. But the kind that was no nonsense, lets get elected so we can do instead of talk.

And in all the years I knew Alan, he never wavered in his belief in, and commitment to, the party. He served it with distinction and true and dedicated loyalty.

So I will miss him very deeply indeed. On many different levels. In many different ways. It is a sad day for me, Cherie and all our family.

Lord Haworth grew up in Leamington Road, Revidge, where his mother and father owned a grocery store, and became a peer in the House of Lords in 2004.

He became Lord Haworth of Fisherfield in Ross and Cromarty, a name taken from Scotland, reflecting his love of the outdoors.

Speaking at the time, Lord Haworth said: "I am being appointed as a working peer so it's a new role for me in politics after 30 years as a party official.

"I have worked as an official for the Labour Party for 30 years, as a backroom boy. This gives me a speaking role."

There will be a private funeral with a memorial celebration planned for a future date.
During the pandemic, there had been concerns from healthcare professionals that the restrictions placed on daily life would lead to a disruption in breastfeeding. But our new research shows that the number of women who continued to exclusively breastfeed for six months increased.

And in fact, women were 40% more likely to exclusively breastfeed for six months during COVID than they were before the pandemic or now, post-pandemic.

The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends exclusively breastfeeding for the first six months of a babys life. But the UK has had the lowest breastfeeding rates globally. Only 0.5% of women breastfed their baby until they were one year old in the UK. This is compared to 27% of mothers in the United States, 35% in Norway and 44% in Mexico, who were still breastfeeding after one year.

When COVID hit, there had been concern that the virus could be passed from mothers to babies.

This article is part of Womens Health Matters, a series about the health and wellbeing of women and girls around the world. From menopause to miscarriage, pleasure to pain the articles in this series will delve into the full spectrum of womens health issues to provide valuable information, insights and resources for women of all ages.

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Numerous studies reported a lack of support for expectant and new mothers who were breastfeeding during the pandemic. For instance, one in three women intending to breastfeed reported lacking assistance with proper positioning, while one in four women stated insufficient hospital-based breastfeeding support. This was probably due to strained healthcare systems and the push to minimise infection risks.

Support for new mothers lessened, which hindered breastfeeding. And pregnant women reported very high levels of anxiety and stress, including uncertainty about the vaccine.

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We conducted surveys with women who gave birth in Wales between 2018 and 2021 and we examined anonymised NHS breastfeeding health data collected by midwives and health visitors.

Surprisingly, breastfeeding rates up to six months peaked in 2020, a time of strict pandemic restrictions. This conflicts with the anticipated decrease in breastfeeding rates due to reduced access to professional and social support.

Our research also shows that approximately six in ten women in Wales breastfeed for their babys first feed, but only three in ten are still breastfeeding at ten weeks. And more than 80% of women are not breastfeeding at all by six months.

This finding has surprised us and others working in healthcare since the pandemic had such a profound impact on daily life worldwide.

Our study also shows that when pregnant women report that they do not intend to breastfeed, then they are very unlikely to start breastfeeding. About 30% of women do not intend to breastfeed at all.

However, when women say in pregnancy that they intend to breastfeed, then approximately 90% of these women do start doing so. They are also 27 times more likely to breastfeed for six months compared to women who did not intend to breastfeed.

The time factor

But what is it that helps women who do want to breastfeed, do so for longer? We know that even without the support systems and training by midwives, more women who wanted to breastfeed were able to for longer during the pandemic.

These findings could mean that one thing women really need to help them to breastfeed is more time at home with their baby, more time with their partner at home with them, more privacy and more flexible working.

If we want to increase breastfeeding levels, it is possible that what the pandemic has taught us is the need to address working environments as well as medical services.

Breastfeeding benefits

Breastfeeding has many benefits, including fewer infections, increased intelligence and the prevention obesity and diabetes. Breastfeeding also has advantages for mothers as it lessens the risk of cancers, postpartum bleeding and helps with weight loss after birth.

It is better for the environment and can be cheaper for some families.

But a study by Yale School of Medicine earlier this year found that a year of breastfeeding can also cost families up to US$11,000 (8,700) with increased food intake, vitamins, supplements and supplies. It stressed that the barrier of cost may impact a mothers decision to breastfeed.

But the cost of breastfeeding involves more than just money. Another more hidden cost is the time dedicated to breastfeeding or pumping breast milk. This highlights how women need more time at home and how we should be reassessing working environments, especially for lower income families.

The short term gains of getting parents back to work should not outweigh the long term benefits to our society from having healthier families. If we want to improve breastfeeding rates in the UK, then we need to look at the working lives of women and their partners across the nation.

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.

The Conversation

This work is funded by the National Centre for Population Health and Wellbeing Research and the National Core Studies funded by the Medical Research Council.

Sinead Brophy receives funding from Health Care Research Wales for Born In Wales and the National Centre for Population Health, MRC for Health Data Research UK, ESRC for Administrative Data Research.
It's still too early to tell the full impact of BA.2.86, but scientists are on alert. (Getty Images)

What's happening?

The new Pirola COVID variant is spreading in "most regions in the UK", according to the latest government update.

The BA.2.86 variant has already been detected in countries across the world and is now thought to be spreading fast throughout the UK.

In its latest variant technical briefing, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) said BA.2.86 "continues to transmit within the UK, with sporadic cases identified in most regions".

The strain, which is confirmed to have more than 30 mutations, is now believed to be becoming the most dominant in the UK.

BA.2.86 has already been detected in Switzerland and South Africa in addition to Israel, Denmark, the US and the UK, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).

The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has also warned that the subvariant may have a higher potential for causing infections in those who have previously contracted the virus or received vaccination.

COVID cases have been on the rise globally, with the WHO previously warning about another variant known as EG.5 or Eris. The Zoe Health Study, led by King's College London researchers, now predicts that more than a million people in the UK have symptomatic COVID-19.

In the worst-case scenario, scientists warn there could be "a big new wave of infections", with some countries announcing autumn boosters in an attempt to subdue a potential surge in infections.

Here, Yahoo News UK explains what you need to know about the recently discovered COVID strain.

What is BA.2.86 and why is it nicknamed 'Pirola'?

Little is known about the newly discovered BA.2.86 strain, although one thing that is concerning scientists is its large number of mutations.

Maria Van Kerkhove, an epidemiologist at the World Health Organisation (WHO), said it needs "closer monitoring", tweeting: "Surveillance, sequencing & #COVID19 reporting [are] critical to track known/detect new variants."

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Scientists are concerned about the high number of mutations because it could boost the virus's ability to adapt, potentially making it both more infectious and resistant to vaccines.

As for its nickname, Pirola, we've already had Omicron, and as the WHO are now only assigning Greek letters to variants of concern, someone has made an amalgamation of Pi and Rho, which are next in the Greek alphabet.

The latest variant technical briefing said early data indicated that BA.2.86 is no more likely to evade existing antibodies than XBB.1.5, another variant that has been circulating widely in the UK.

Where has it been detected?

BA.2.86 was first detected in Denmark on 24 July, with a second case picked up on 31 July. That same day, it was discovered in Israel.

Another case of the strain was picked up in the US earlier this month, with a third case recorded in Ohio this week, while the UK detected its first known case in London on Friday last week.

Worth remembering that the identified geographical distribution of BA.2.86 probably has less to do with where it's actually present, and more to do with where surveillance is good- the fact that it's been identified in Israel, UK, Denmark means that it's likely more widespread.  Dr. Deepti Gurdasani (@dgurdasani1) August 22, 2023

Of course, this doesn't mean these are the only countries Pirola is confined to  it is most likely in others, too  but many countries have wound back their genomic surveillance, making it hard to tell where else it might be.

None of the cases appear to be linked, and the UKHSA said the UK case was a person with no recent travel history, suggesting a degree of community transmission within the country.

How serious is Pirola?

In short, we don't know yet but the government's variant technical briefing said: "While the available data remains limited, there is currently no evidence to suggest that BA.2.86 infection is more likely to make people seriously ill than currently-circulating variants, while vaccination is likely to provide continued protection."

The CDC previously said that BA.2.86 may be more capable than older variants in causing infection in people who previously had COVID-19 or received vaccines.

It added that it was too soon to know whether it might cause more severe illness than previous variants.

Francois Balloux, director of the UCL Genetics Institute at University College London, said the new strain is the most striking SARS-CoV-2 strain the world has witnessed since the emergence of Omicron with more than 30 mutations.

excellent summary of where we are with the brand new variant BA.2.86



TLDR still plenty of potential for it to be a nothingburger but plausible *worst* case is a big new wave of infections with no intrinsic increased severity.



Things will become clearer over next 7-14 days 1/2 https://t.co/jNEKOCgZIE  Prof. Christina Pagel (@chrischirp) August 21, 2023

As UCL's Clinical Operational Research Unit's Professor Christina Pagel put it: "Still plenty of potential for it to be a nothingburger but plausible *worst* case is a big new wave of infections with no intrinsic increased severity. Things will become clearer over next 7-14 days."

According to an article in the respected Nature publication, Jesse Bloom, a viral evolutionary biologist at the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center in Seattle, thnks there is limited cause for concern.

I dont think anybody needs to be alarmed by this, he said. The most likely scenario is that this variant fizzles out, and in a month, nobody other than people like me even remember that it existed.

Nature does acknowledge, however, that researchers are "racing" to track if the new strain will be of "global concern".

What has the CDC said?

The CDC said on Wednesday the new BA.2.86 lineage of coronavirus may be more capable than older variants in causing infection in people who have previously had COVID-19 or who have received vaccines.

It said it was too soon to know whether this might cause more severe illness compared with previous variants.

But due to the high number of mutations detected in this lineage, there were concerns about its impact on immunity from vaccines and previous infections, the agency said.

The Omicron offshoot carries more than 35 mutations in key portions of the virus compared with XBB.1.5, the dominant variant through most of 2023  a number roughly on par with the Omicron variant that caused record infections compared to its predecessor.

Read more: BA.2.86 subvariant potentially better at causing breakthrough infections: CDC (The Hill, 2 mins)

What if I've already had the COVID vaccine?

The CDC said due to the high number of mutations detected in this lineage, there were concerns about its impact on immunity from vaccines.

Prof Balloux said most people will have some immunity because they've either previously had COVID or have been vaccinated for it, but this is no guarantee.

Professor Rowland Kao, an epidemiologist at the University of Edinburgh, told the Guardian that the "bulk of vaccinations have now been some time ago, and even the most vulnerable are likely approaching the point where immune protection is fading".

He pointed to increase in COVID hospital admissions, although it's not known if this is due to Pirola, and warned that seasonal factors and the "usual combination of autumn return to school and university and work" could help spread the strain.

We know about BA.2.86 (Pirola), despite a massive drop in surveillance, thanks in large part to variant trackers who scour sequences often on a voluntary basis. Would we even know about BA.2.86 if @shay_fleishon and @LongDesertTrain hadn't alerted us?



No surprise, indeed.  T. Ryan Gregory (@TRyanGregory) August 21, 2023

BA.2.86 stems from an "earlier branch" of COVID, so it differs from the variant targeted by current vaccines, explained Dr S Wesley Long, medical director of diagnostic microbiology at Houston Methodist Hospital. Although it is still unclear if it will gain a competitive advantage over rival strains.

What are different countries doing about BA.2.86?

With this additional risk of infection in mind, Europe is set for "natural experiment" of vaccination policy, with France offering a free autumn booster free to everyone who wants one, Prof Pagel said.

She added that the UK is taking a slightly different approach, restricting the offer mainly to people aged 65 and above.

Even at a local level, authorities have been taking notice of the strain's discovery, with Buckinghamshire Council's cabinet member for health and wellbeing Angela Macpherson telling residents: "As expected, the coronavirus continues to mutate, and worldwide surveillance continues to identify new variants.

Europe also set for natural experiment of vaccination policy, with France offering an autumn booster free to everyone and Uk restricting it to mostly over 65 year olds.  Prof. Christina Pagel (@chrischirp) August 21, 2023

Over the year levels of COVID in the community and therefore hospital admissions will fluctuate from time to time. The World Health Organization says there are currently no circulating variants of concern and there is no evidence that the new variants cause more severe disease."

Meanwhile in the US, Joe Biden's government are trying to speed up the process of finalising contracts so pharmacies like CVS and Walgreens can offer free jabs to the uninsured as early as mid-September.

The CDC is keeping an eye on the BA.2.86 lineage because it has 36 mutations that distinguish it from the currently-dominant XBB.1.5 variant.

The US agency, however, said virus samples are not yet broadly available for more reliable laboratory testing of antibodies.
FILE PHOTO: An aerial view shows a deforested plot of the Amazon rainforest in Manaus

BRASILIA (Reuters) - Denmark will donate 150 million Danish crowns ($21.9 million) to Brazil's Amazon Fund to fight deforestation, Danish Minister for Development Cooperation and Global Climate Policy, Dan Jorgensen, announced on Tuesday with his Brazilian counterpart.

Jorgensen and Brazil's Environment Minister Marina Silva said in a joint statement that climate change has an impact on forests, local communities and Indigenous peoples that need support to manage forests in sustainable way and promote trade in sustainably produced forest products.

The Amazon Fund was created in 2008 to raise donations to combat deforestation and promote preservation of the world's largest tropical rainforest, with Norway providing an initial $1 billion. Germany has contributed to the fund, and more recently Britain and the European Union, while the United States plans to contribute $500 million over five years.

The ministers pledged to increase efforts to reverse biodiversity loss and combat deforestation, desertification, land degradation and drought, as well as to restore degraded lands, the statement said.

Jorgensen praised recent efforts by Brazil in the restoration and sustainable management of forests and in the effective fight against deforestation.

He said the Amazon Fund had a crucial role as a robust and transparent payment-for-results mechanism, with solid governance, in supporting Brazil's efforts to end deforestation.

The Danish government donation for the period 2024 to 2026 is subject to parliamentary approval.

Silva said the proposed contribution to the Amazon Fund will support the Brazilian government's efforts to end deforestation in the Amazon by 2030 and contribute to promoting sustainable development in the region.

($1 = 6.8487 Danish crowns)

(Reporting by Anthony Boadle; Editing by Chris Reese and Lincoln Feast.)
Sentry Hill house in Newtownabbey is one of the venues taking part in European Heritage Open Days 2023. Photo: Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council

This September, 195 of Northern Irelands historic buildings and monuments, landmarks and hidden gems will be offering free entry with many activities for the public to enjoy.

The packed programme ranges from guided tours and walks to talks and lectures, living history re-enactments, community fun days, musical events and screenings.

European Heritage Open Days will be running from September 9-10 with digital events throughout the week from September 4-10.

Visitors can learn more about Carrickfergus Castle as part of European Heritage Open Days. Photo: Google maps

Some of the in-person events this year will require pre-booking; for further details and information about each venues accessibility, visit the Discover Northern Ireland website.

The venues taking part in the wider Larne, Carrickfergus and Newtownabbey areas are:

Sentry Hill, Newtownabbey

The 19th-century farmhouse and its contents provide a rare insight into life in rural Ulster during the 19th and early 20th centuries. Opening Saturday, September 9 from 11:00am - 4:00pm.

The fascinating history of St Cedma's Church in Larne will be explored as part of European Heritage Open Days. Photo: Google maps

Carrickfergus Castle, Carrickfergus

For more than eight centuries, Carrickfergus Castle has been an imposing presence on the shore of Belfast Lough. The medieval monument houses historical displays as well as cannons from the 17th to the 19th centuries. Opening Saturday, September 9 from 9:30am - 4:30pm and Sunday, September 10 from 9:30am - 4:30pm.

Guided walking tour of Carrickfergus town

The one-hour walking tour will take visitors at a leisurely pace around Carrickfergus town centre, with an emphasis on local history and churches today. It will run on Saturday, September 9 at 5:00pm. Booking is required; email johnomcilvenna@outlook.com

Sheils Buildings, Carrickfergus

Architecture enthusiasts will enjoy getting a closer look at this historic venue and its B2 listed buildings, which date back to 1868. As it is a residential site, on offer is an external viewing of the architecture only. The site is mostly accessible for wheelchair users although the forest style paths may present a challenge. Opening Saturday, September 9 from 12:00pm - 4:00pm.

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Andrew Jackson Cottage and US Rangers Centre, Boneybefore

Beginning and ending at Andrew Jackson Cottage, local historian Adrian Hack from the Lead the Way Tours will take visitors back in time to examine how Carrickfergus reacted to World War II. Additionally, Adrian and local Andrew Jackson Cottage tour guide George will delve into the contribution of the elite commando unit, the US Rangers. Opening Saturday, September 9 from 11:00am - 3:00pm and Sunday, September 10 from 11:00am  3:00pm. Booking is required; contact Carrickfergus Castle Visitor Information Centre on 028 9335 8262 or email visitorinfo@midandeastantrim.gov.uk

Blackhead Lightkeepers Houses, Whitehead

Visitors will have the opportunity to see the conservation work of the Irish Landmark Trust while enjoying a self-guided tour of these restored Lightkeepers houses. Built at the height of Belfasts shipping era, the lighthouse played a key role in guiding vessels, including the Titanic, out of Belfast Lough. Opening Sunday, September 10 from 10:00 am - 4:00pm. Booking is required; visit https://www.eventbrite.ie/e/open-day-at-blackhead-lightkeepers-houses-tickets-653951355107

Read more: Popular Radio Ulster series The Long And The Short Of It starring Tim McGarry and Dr David Hume to make television debut after The One Show on BBC One

Drumalis Retreat and Conference Centre, Larne

The centre will be open for guided tours throughout the afternoon, while the grounds are open for all. Afternoon teas will be available at an additional charge. Opening Saturday, September 9 from 12:00pm  4:00pm.

Carnegie - The Star Spangled Scotchman, Larne Museum & Arts Centre

The Larne venue will be hosting an afternoon film showing of Carnegie  The Star Spangled Scotchman, which tells the story of Andrew Carnegies

life. It will be running on Saturday, September 9 from 2:00pm  4:30pm. Booking is required; contact Larne Museum & Arts Centre on 028 2826 2443 or email marian.kelso@midandeastantrim.gov.uk

Barbican Gatelodge, Glenarm Estate

Self-guided tours of the restored gate lodge will allow visitors the opportunity to see the conservation work of Irish Landmark Trust. Dating back to 1825, the miniature castle featuring turrets and battlements is now available to let as holiday accommodation. Opening Sunday, September 10 from 10:00  4:00pm. Booking is required; visit https://www.eventbrite.ie/e/open-day-at-the-barbicanglenarm-tickets-653843362097

Sustainable Heritage guided walk around Carnlough

Led by Mary Watson, this guided walk will explore the village of Carnlough and its industrial past. Starting at The Heritage Hub, featured buildings will include the Town Hall, Harbour House, the kelp store in the harbour, McAuleys Bar, and a former corn mill. The walk will take around one hour on fairly flat terrain; outdoor shoes are recommended and on street car parking is available outside the Town Hall or at the free car park beside the Spar. It will run on Sunday, September 10 from 2:30  4:00pm. Booking is required; email watson-mary@sky.com

Old Church Centre, Cushendun

This years European Heritage Open Days are part of Culture Month at the venue, featuring guided tours of the centre, a Hands of History exhibition and a panel discussion on Saturday looking at the impact of the Good Friday Agreement 25 years on. Opening times are Saturday, September 9 from 11:00am  5:00pm and Sunday, September 10 from 11:00am  5:00pm. Booking is required for the GFA panel; for further information visit: https://theoldchurchcentre.com/

The Gallery, Whitehead

Housed in a renovated Victorian building, this venue is showing Septembers Art Exhibition of work by artists from across County Antrim. Opening times are Saturday, September 9 from 10:00am - 5:00pm and Sunday, September 10 from 10:00am  5:00pm

St Cedmas Church, Larne

St Cedmas current building dates from 1350, making it the second oldest building in continuous use in County Antrim. Visitors are invited to come along and take a closer look at the buildings many features as they get an insight into its fascinating history. Opening Sunday, September 10 from 2:00pm  4:00pm.
Firefighters in Greece continue to battle what has become the biggest wildfire in the EU since record-keeping began.

Burning continued in north east Greece for the 11th day on Tuesday, despite the efforts of hundreds of firefighters and a fleet of water-dropping aircraft from Greece and several other European countries.

The wildfire, which was blamed for 20 of the 21 fire-related deaths in Greece last week, has led to the loss of large tracts of forest, scorched homes and triggered the evacuation of thousands of people.

It is the "largest single blaze recorded" in the EU since the European Forest Fire Information System began recording data in 2000, the European Commission said.

The fire department said six planes and four helicopters were assisting 475 firefighters on the ground, supported by 100 vehicles.

Another 260 firefighters and one helicopter were tackling reignitions of another major fire that had been burning in a forest on the southern slopes of Mount Parnitha, on the outskirts of Athens, the Greek capital.

Read more:

Holiday booked to Greece? Your rights as wildfires rage

Wildfires in nine Mediterranean countries

The fire in the Alexandroupolis and Evros region - which first started on 19 August - was mainly concentrated deep in a forest near the border with Turkey, in an area difficult to access.

More than 81,000 hectares (200,000 acres) of land has been lost - an area larger than New York City - the European Union's Copernicus Emergency Management Service, which uses satellite imagery to provide mapping data.

With resources pushed to their limits, Greece called on the help of other European countries, receiving 12 aircraft and hundreds of firefighters from across the continent.

Germany, Sweden, Croatia, Cyprus and the Czech Republic have sent firefighting aircraft under the EU's emergency response mechanism, with France and Spain set to follow.

Janez Lenarcic, the top EU official for crisis management, said on Tuesday it was the bloc's largest aerial firefighting operation and "underscores our commitment to swift and effective collective action in times of crisis".

Greek authorities are investigating the causes of the fires, some of which have been suspected as arson.

Police on Friday said 24 people had been arrested for deliberate arson, out of 163 people arrested on fire-related charges since the start of the fire prevention season.
James Cleverly will become the first UK Foreign Secretary in five years to visit Beijing on Wednesday.

Whats on the agenda and why is the visit controversial?

 Why is the Foreign Secretary visiting China?

The UK Government believes Chinas emergence as a major power poses an epoch-defining challenge to the international order in terms of global security and the values that underpin global relations.

Mr Cleverly believes that engagement with China is vital because its economic clout and influence means that no international challenge  such as climate change or the war in Ukraine  can be solved without it.

But he has promised to raise Chinas human rights abuses, the crackdown on dissent in Hong Kong and activity in the South China Sea and Taiwan Strait.

The Foreign Secretary is visiting China on Wednesday 30 August for high-level talks with senior representatives from the Chinese government.https://t.co/ERHN36f0Je@ukinchina  Caroline Wilson  (@CWilson_FCDO) August 29, 2023

 Why has it been five years since the last visit by a UK Foreign Secretary?

Since Jeremy Hunts trip in 2018, the so-called golden era in the UK-China relationship has come to an end.

The UKs decision to ban Chinese tech giant Huawei from 5G networks over security concerns in 2020, Beijings sanctions on MPs and peers who had spoken out about human rights abuses in Xinjiang province and allegations of a Chinese agent targeting Parliament have all contributed to a frosty relationship.

The UKs intelligence agency MI6 is devoting more resources to China than any other country because of the scale of the challenge.

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The Covid-19 pandemic, which originated in China, has also restricted opportunities for face-to-face talks.

 What will be on the agenda?

As well as global issues such as climate change and Ukraine, Mr Cleverly will want to highlight concerns about Chinas regional activity.

Beijing has rapidly expanded its navy and militarised islands in the South China Sea in an increasingly assertive stance in response to sovereignty disputes.

Mr Cleverly will also stress the need to dial down tensions with Taiwan, warning that conflict could disrupt global trade through the Taiwan Strait and have a potentially catastrophic economic effect in China and the rest of the world.

In his talks with counterpart Wang Yi the Foreign Secretary will also highlight issues where the UK has strong disagreements including the crackdown on democracy in Hong Kong, the sanctioning of British parliamentarians.

 What has China got to do with the war in Ukraine?

Xi Jinping is one of the few international leaders who may be able to influence Vladimir Putin and the UK hopes to persuade China to push for an end to the war.

Beijing has claimed to be neutral, but MI6 chief Sir Richard Moore said earlier this year that China had leant very heavily in support of Russia, providing diplomatic backing.

There is also widespread suspicion that dual-use equipment, which can be for both civilian and military purposes, is flowing from China to Russia to help maintain Mr Putins war effort.

Mr Cleverly is likely to stress that, as a permanent member of the UN Security Council, China has a responsibility to show its support for the UN Charter which is meant to protect a country from invasion.

 What do critics of Mr Cleverlys visit say?

The Tory benches contain a number of vocal China hawks, who want a tougher line from the Government.

Sir Iain Duncan Smith, the former Tory leader who is among the MPs and peers sanctioned by Beijing, said he had hoped Mr Cleverly would not visit China, accusing the Government of a weak approach he dubbed Project Kowtow.

https://t.co/vp5bwv09i5 UK: James Cleverly must challenge Chinese government over ever-expanding repression James Cleverly must ensure that human rights issues provide the tone and substance to everything he does while in China  Sacha Deshmukh  News From Amnesty (@NewsFromAmnesty) August 29, 2023

But he said that as Mr Cleverly was going to Beijing, while there he must publicly call out the treatment of Uighur Muslims in Xinjiang as genocide  a label the UK has refused to use  speak out about the situation in Hong Kong and pro-democracy newspaper publisher Jimmy Lai and condemn China over its support for Russias invasion of Ukraine.

Sir Iain claimed the Governments current approach was reminiscent of the appeasement of Nazi Germany in the 1930s and had left the UK as the softest member of the Western alliance.

Amnesty International UKs chief executive Sacha Deshmukh said: Thousands of persecuted people in Hong Kong and mainland China will be watching this trip closely and expecting James Cleverly to speak up for them, negotiate for them, and on his return to the UK be able to say hes genuinely stood up for their rights.

 So what next?

If the talks between Mr Cleverly and Mr Wang are a success, a face-to-face meeting between Rishi Sunak and Xi Jinping could be the next stage in the diplomatic thaw.

The Prime Minister and the Chinese president are among leaders invited to the gathering of G20 nations in India in September.
Manchester United have made a 2million loan bid for Chelsea defender Marc Cucurella.

However, the Blues are expected to turn down the initial offer as they seek a larger loan fee.

Cucurella is open to a move to Old Trafford but negotiations are delicate with other left-back candidates having been sounded out.

United boss Erik ten Hag is thought to favour Cucurella, whom he believes fits his style of play.

Bid made: Manchester United want a loan deal for Chelsea defender Marc Cucurella (Chelsea FC via Getty Images)

The Spain international has been an unused substitute in all three of Mauricio Pochettino's first Premier League matches in charge at Stamford Bridge.

However, Cucurella is thought to be in contention to play for Chelsea against fourth-tier AFC Wimbledon in the Carabao Cup second round on Wednesday night.

When asked about the players future on Tuesday, Pochettino said: I cannot talk about supposition or rumours. At the moment nothing changed, for tomorrow he is going to be able to play. The club did not communicate to me anything about this situation."

Transfer news LIVE! Follow all the latest deals and rumours

United are considering alternatives should they fail to reach a deal with Chelsea for Cucurella, including Tottenham's Sergio Reguilon and Lyon's Nicolas Tagliafico.
Manchester United player Jadon Sancho in action during the Premier League match between Manchester United (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)

Chelsea striker Romelu Lukaku will now fly to Italy today to undergo his AS Roma medical after the club and player agreed on a loan deal that benefits all parties.

Lukakus exit will now afford Chelsea the space and funds to go all out for another forward player with Manchester Uniteds Jadon Sancho amongst the players that have been looked at by the Chelsea board.

Arsenals Emile Smith Rowe has also been discussed as well as other forward players as Mauricio Pochettino goes in search of a goalscorer and creator who can help out Nicolas Jackson with Christopher Nkunku injured.

Sancho joined Manchester United from Dortmund two years ago but his time at Old Trafford has been shocking and hes found himself out of the England team and has barely featured consistently in the last six months.

Chelsea boss Pochettino is viewed by many as a man who can get the best out of players and Sancho could revive his career in west London.

The former Manchester player is at the right age for the Chelsea project and can play as a number 10 and even out wide when need be.

The Blues boss confirmed he was on the lookout for another forward who could fill the bill: He said: If we can add the right profile, yes, but not to bring players so we can add one more. We dont want to stop the evolution of some young guys, Broja, Nkunku.

The Blues have had a decent start to the league season where they have won one, drawn one and lost in their first three league games.
Sara Sharif's cause of death is yet to be determined - but an inquest has heard it is "likely to be unnatural".

The 10-year-old was found dead at her home in Woking on 10 August, with Surrey County Council confirming she was previously known to authorities.

Earlier this month, a post-mortem revealed Sara had "suffered multiple and extensive injuries" that were "likely to have been caused over a sustained and extended period of time".

Coroner Simon Wickens said inquest proceedings will be adjourned until 29 February 2024 so Surrey Police can continue with their investigations - adding there was an "international" aspect to the case.

He went on to offer his "sincere condolences" to all those "touched by Sara's short life".

Sara's father Urfan - as well as her stepmother, uncle and five children - are believed to have travelled to Islamabad before she was discovered by police.

He went on to call 999 from Pakistan on the day she was found, expressing concern for his eldest daughter's safety.

Read more:

School's tribute to 'bubbly and confident' girl

Police in the country have been trying their "level best" to locate Sara's family.

Detectives have told Sky correspondent Sabah Choudhry they are "blind" in their search for Sara's father, uncle and stepmother - and reports of officers being close to finding them are "fake news".

Meanwhile, Sara's grandfather has urged his son to hand himself over to police as part of the investigation.

Back here, detectives have been piecing together a picture of her lifestyle before she died - and her mother Olga is being supported by specialist officers.

Lawyers in the UK have said Pakistan's government is unlikely to block an extradition request in connection to Sara's death.
Primary school child at work in a classroom (PA)

People across the UK will be gearing up to return to a normal routine as the summer comes to a close - and for children that means returning to the classroom. Schools in each of the four nations reopen their doors to pupils for their new autumn term at slightly different, but similar, times.

There does tend to be a united approach for schools in each nation, although every school does have the discretion to take a number of staff training and school development days so there could be a change in when classes begin again from school to school. When schools do re-open, the autumn 2023 term will begin - and this means pupils will have moved up a school year.

Due to the variation in school holidays across England , Scotland , Wales and Northern Ireland it is important to check when schools in your area re-open for the new school year. So when does the autumn 2023 term start in each of the four nations of the UK? This is what you need to know.

When does the autumn term 2022 start?

Here are all the dates you need to know.

There are 333 local authorities in England and some may have slightly different dates when their pupils should return to school as this might depend on teacher training days. Generally, school children in England have six weeks off during the summer break, beginning in mid-July and ending in early September.

That means that this year, schools will reopen on Monday 4 September. Dates can vary between schools though, so you look at the term calendar for your specific school, which you can find by typing your postcode into the Government website.

In Scotland, there are 32 local councils. The term dates are a little different and could differ depending on city councils. Pupils began their summer break in early July and will take up classes again in late August.

Children return to classes on Monday 21 August, following what is usually a seven week summer holiday. Dates can vary between schools, so you look at the term calendar for your specific school, which you can find by typing your postcode into the My Gov.Scot website.

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In Wales, there are 22 unitary authorities, which in turn are divided into electoral wards and communities. In general, children left the classroom on Friday 21 July and will return on Monday 4 September. Dates can vary between schools, so you look at the term calendar for your specific school, which you can do by visiting the Welsh Government website .

In Northern Ireland, there are 11 local councils. In similarity to Scotland, children have a longer summer break.
By Brendan Pierson

(Reuters) -3M has agreed to pay $6.01 billion to settle lawsuits by U.S. military veterans and service members who say they suffered hearing loss from using the company's earplugs, the company and lawyers for the plaintiffs announced on Tuesday.

The deal comes after a failed attempt by 3M earlier this year to move the lawsuits, which had grown into the largest mass tort litigation in U.S. history, into bankruptcy court in the hope of limiting its liability.

About 240,000 people are expected to be eligible for the settlement, Chris Seeger, a lead lawyer for the plaintiffs, said at a press conference. 3M has the right to walk away from the deal if less than 98% of eligible claimants decide to take part, but Seeger said he was confident that threshold would be met.

The money will be paid out from 2023 to 2029, and $1 billion will be in the form of 3M stock, the company said in a statement. The Minnesota-based company said it was not admitting liability and that the earplugs "are safe and effective when used properly."

"This historic agreement represents a tremendous victory for the thousands of men and women who bravely served our country and returned home with life-altering hearing injuries," Seeger and his co-lead attorneys, Bryan Aylstock and Clayton Clark, said in a joint statement.

3M's shares were up more than 2% on Tuesday. They closed 5.2% higher on Monday on earlier reports that a settlement was imminent. Some analysts' estimates of the company's potential liability from the earplug litigation had been as high as $10 billion.

The Combat Arms earplugs were made by Aearo Technologies, a company 3M acquired in 2008. They were used by the U.S. military in training and combat from 2003 to 2015, including in Afghanistan and Iraq.

Plaintiffs in the lawsuits claim that the company hid design flaws, fudged test results and failed to provide instructions for proper use of the earplugs, leading to hearing damage.

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The lawsuits were consolidated before U.S. District Judge M. Casey Rodgers in Pensacola, Florida, federal court in 2019. At its height, the litigation accounted for about 30% of all federal court cases nationwide.

Of 16 earplug cases that have gone to trial, 3M has lost 10, with about $265 million being awarded in total to 13 plaintiffs. Those verdicts are included in the $6.01 billion amount.

Aearo filed for bankruptcy in July 2022, with 3M pledging $1 billion to fund its liabilities stemming from the earplug lawsuits.

3M argued that the mass tort litigation was unfair because Rodgers had kept scientific evidence favorable to the company out of trials and allowed thousands of "unvetted" claims to swell the court's docket.

However, a bankruptcy judge in June dismissed the bankruptcy, finding that Aearo was not in enough financial distress to justify it.

Monday's settlement comes just two months after 3M announced a tentative $10.3 billion deal with a host of U.S. public water systems to resolve claims of water pollution by per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, or PFAS, known as "forever chemicals."

That deal is not yet final, but cleared one potential hurdle on Monday as 22 U.S. states and territories withdrew their earlier objections to it.

(Reporting Brendan Pierson in New Yorkk, Additional reprting by Kannaki Deka in Bengaluru; Editing by Alexia Garamfalvi and Bill Berkrot)
Airports have warned disruption will continue into today despite the air traffic control glitch being fixed. (Photo: SWNS)

Ryan and Kirsty Fawcett, from Selby in North Yorkshire, had travelled to East Midlands Airport with their two-year-old twin sons for their first holiday as a family  and the couples first since 2019  to Antalya in Turkey, scheduled to take off at 4.45pm on Monday.

Mr Fawcett said: We arrived at about 1pm but we got the text to say we were delayed by three hours, but to get here for the same time. At the same time, we were waiting in departures, we were told it would be a further hour and a half delay to 9.30pm, and then at about 8.20pm we got told to go to Gate 1 to tell us it was cancelled.

We got told we would be flying today and we managed to get a hotel at short notice last night, and then they told us this morning that it was cancelled. Were gutted but it is what it is. If air traffic control has gone down and it is unsafe, it is one of those things, but our two kids have been looking forward to it.

Mrs Fawcett added: What has annoyed us more is we have been told just sit and wait around, with the extra expense of hotels and things. What if we didnt have money spare?

We will go home and see what happens, and see if we can get a last-minute thing but it depends if we can get the refund. It cant be helped, but its just the waiting  people were having a go at the staff, but its not their fault.

According to East Midlands Airports website, only one departure has been cancelled on Tuesday.

Aviation analytics company Cirium said across all UK airports on Monday, 790 departures and 785 arrivals were cancelled. That was equivalent to around 27 per cent of planned flights.

Meanwhile, airlines will be stepping up to their responsibilities to ensure they get people home, the Transport Secretary has said.

Mark Harper told GB News: First of all, I just want to reiterate what the National Air Traffic Services said yesterday, to apologise obviously for the disruption that everyones had yesterday. The system was fixed yesterday afternoon and things are getting back to normal but theres obviously some disruption thats going to continue today for people, and I know thousands of people have been impacted.

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Airlines will be stepping up, I hope, to their responsibilities to make sure that they get people back home, get them on an alternative flight and deal with food and drink and accommodation in the meantime.

Asked about the nature of the incident, Mark Harper said: This was a technical fault. We do not think this was a cybersecurity incident. And what will happen now with an incident of this magnitude is there will be an independent review.

We want to make sure it doesnt happen again, because of all the disruption thats been caused to passengers across the country.
Northern Ireland accountancy firm, Harbinson Mulholland, is harnessing the power of responsible and sustainable business practice to encourage local family businesses to be a Force for Good at their Annual Conference at W5 in Belfast. The keynote speaker will be Darren Burns (pictured), director of Inclusion and Diversity with Timpson Group, the UK's leading retail service provider employing over 5,000 colleagues throughout 1934 owned stores and 115 Snappy Snaps across the UK and Ireland

Northern Ireland accountancy firm, Harbinson Mulholland, is harnessing the power of responsible and sustainable business practice to encourage local family businesses to be a Force for Good at their annual conference at W5 in Belfast.

Under the auspices of the firms NI Family Business Forum, the event on September 20 jointly hosted by Ulster University Business School, will go beyond the issue of net zero targets and delve into all aspects of building an enduring enterprise fit for future generations.

A raft of topics including philanthropy and leaving a legacy, sustainability, creating a world class culture, next gen leadership transition and adapting a lean manufacturing mindset for continuous improvement and growth will all be addressed by guest speakers and a panel of experts and business owners.

Darren McDowell, senior partner with Harbinson Mulholland, explained: Many family businesses recognise the need to focus more on the benefits they can bring to wider society, but finding ways to effectively achieve those goals can seem complex and elusive.

This event aims to motivate and galvanise these entrepreneurs through hearing first hand experiences from their peers on the measures they have taken to secure the future of their business while fostering an effective Environmental Social Governance (ESG) culture to deliver positive change for those inside and outside of their companies.

Were expecting some thought provoking and engaging presentations from esteemed local and nationally owned family companies including Lynas Food Group, Smiley Monroe, Seating Matters and the Timpson Group, that will demonstrate how embracing and instilling these practices into the very fabric of their own everyday operations will see local family businesses reap the benefits commercially and ethically for generations.

The keynote speaker will be Darren Burns, director of Inclusion and Diversity with Timpson Group, the UK's leading retail service provider employing over 5,000 colleagues throughout 1934 owned stores and 115 Snappy Snaps across the UK and Ireland.

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Darren will be talking about Timpsons experience of and commitment to hiring staff from marginalised groups including ex-offenders, who represent 10% of its workforce and how their work ethic, resilience and loyalty at being given a second chance, is good for both business and society in as a whole.

The full programme is available for download and early bird tickets are now on sale here.

In the first instance, places are reserved for family businesses only. Contact Treena Clarke with any queries - tclarke@harbinson-mulholland.com
Fans react during Arctic Monkeys concert. (Photo by Santiago Bluguermann/Getty Images)

Electric Picnic is only a few days away and excitement is building.

The festival in Stradbally Hall will take place from Friday (1 September) until Sunday (3 September). It is called the most diverse end of summer party on the Emerald Isle.

Electric Picnic will return to Stradbally Hall and there will be a number of world famous acts performing throughout the weekend.

If you are going to the event or wondering if you can still get tickets, there is plenty of key information you need to know.

Here is all the details for the festival:

When is Electric Picnic?

The festival will begin on Friday (1 September) and run throughout the weekend. Electric Picnics final day is Sunday (3 September).

The festival returned for the first time since 2019 last year and is back to running annually.

Where is Electric Picnic?

The festival has been staged at Stradbally Hall in Stradbally, County Laois since it started in 2004. The full address is: Stradbally Hall, Stradbally, Co. Laois Ireland.

County Laois is part of the Eastern and Midland Region and in the province of Leinster. It has been described by some as Irelands Glastonbury.

What is the weather forecast?

The Met Eireann has issued an early weather forecast Stradbally, Laois for the weekend. It expects there will be light rain showers on Thursday - the night before the festival begins in proper.

For the first day of Electric Picnic, it is expected to be partly cloudy with highs of 18C and lows of 11C on Friday. The cloudy conditions will continue into Saturday, according to the forecaster, but it could reach 20C.

The best weather for the weekened is being saved for Sunday, the Met Eireann predicts. Highs of 20C and lows of 14C are expected.

Who are the headliners for Electric Picnic?

These are the acts who will headline the festival this year:

Billie Eilish

Niall Horran

Fred Again...

Paolo Nutti

The Killers

The Script

Is there a map of the festival ground?

Electric Picnic has its very own app, you can use it to find schedules and even a map of the festival ground.

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Can you get tickets and how much do they cost?

Electric Picnics website says that all tickets are sold out for 2023.

So unfortunately if you havent got a ticket yet, then you are out of luck for this year.

What travel advice has been issued for the festival?

Festivalgoers are being urged to plan ahead for their journey to Electric Picnic this year.

The festivals official account tweeted: Just a gentle reminder to plan your journey to Stradbally ahead of time, dont rush and travel safely.

Campsites open at 9am, so we advise that you give yourself plenty time to set up We cant wait to close the summer with you all in style!
Family who spent 12,000 on Turkey holiday forced to stay in Leeds Bradford Airport overnight (Photo: LBA)

Transport Secretary Mark Harper said it was the worst incident of its kind in nearly a decade and announced an independent review will be carried out.

The issue started on Monday after ATC provider National Air Traffic Services (Nats) suffered what it described as a technical issue preventing it from automatically processing flight plans.

This resulted in the number of flights being restricted while the plans were checked manually, leading more than a quarter of flights at UK airports to be cancelled.

Nats said at 3.15pm on Monday the problem was resolved, but disruption continued into Tuesday as many aircraft and crews were out of position.

Passengers stuck in the UK and abroad described their frustration, as some had no idea when or how they would get to their destination.

Katrina Harrison and her family  including one-year-old twin grandchildren  spent the night at Leeds Bradford Airport after their flight to Antalya, Turkey was cancelled on Monday afternoon.

Ms Harrison, from Stockton-on-Tees, told the PA news agency: There were no hotels to stay in, we couldnt get the car out of the car park.

We havent slept, we tried to sleep on the floor but couldnt. Luckily the children could sleep in the pram.

The holiday was supposed to be a family celebration of a few things. Weve spent 12,000 on it and weve been treated like muck.

Ryan and Kirsty Fawcett, from Selby in North Yorkshire, were at East Midlands Airport with their two-year-old twin sons for their first holiday as a family  and the couples first since 2019  to Antalya in Turkey.

Their flight on Monday afternoon was cancelled, and after staying in a hotel overnight, they were booked on another departure on Tuesday morning that was also axed.

Ms Fawcett said: What has annoyed us more is we have been told just sit and wait around, with the extra expense of hotels and things.

What if we didnt have money spare?

At Heathrow Airport on Tuesday, at least 32 departures and 31 arrivals were cancelled.

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British Airways, which operates the most flights to and from the west London airport, was the worst affected airline.

There were at least 23 departures and 51 arrivals cancelled at Gatwick on Tuesday.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak told broadcasters: I know people will be enormously frustrated by the disruption thats impacting them.

Thankfully things like this are rare and the issue itself was fixed in a matter of hours, but the disruption obviously is continuing and will last for a little while longer.

The Transport Secretary is in constant dialogue with all the industry participants, he will be talking to airlines specifically later today and making sure that they support passengers to get home as quickly as possible.

Transport Secretary Mark Harper told GB News: This was a technical fault. We do not think this was a cybersecurity incident.

And what will happen now with an incident of this magnitude is there will be an independent review.

The Civil Aviation Authority will be putting together a report in the coming days, which obviously I will take a look at to see whether there are lessons to learn for the future, to see whether we can reduce the impact of this again.

Its nearly a decade since there was a significant issue like this.

We want to make sure it doesnt happen again, because of all the disruption thats been caused to passengers across the country.

An unprecedented ATC systems failure in December 2014 led to widespread disruption at airports.

In relation to the latest incident, Rob Bishton, interim chief executive at regulator the Civil Aviation Authority, said: As part of our regulatory oversight of its activities, we continue to engage with Nats, and once its investigation is fully complete an incident report will be provided to the UK Civil Aviation Authority.

The reports outcomes will then be shared with the Secretary of State for Transport.

Aviation analytics company Cirium said 790 departures and 785 arrivals were cancelled across all UK airports on Monday.

That was equivalent to around 27% of planned flights.

Aviation consultant John Strickland said providing ATC for flights is complicated.

He went on: Systems are meant to be robust. They are pressure tested and that does give a very high level of reliability.

But as weve seen in other parts of the industry, and undoubtedly in other industries too like the banking sector, there is a vulnerability in which relying on IT systems presents.

Passengers were urged by airlines to check before they leave for the airport as their flight times may have changed.
Oscar-winning Japanese composer Ryuichi Sakamotos final performance is captured in posthumous documentary Opus, directed by his son Neo Sora.

Sakamoto, who was behind the scores of films like The Last Emperor and The Revenant, died in March at age 71 after a years-long battle with cancer. His last piano performance was staged for Opus, which is set to premiere at the Venice Film Festival.

More from IndieWire

In the concert film, Sakamoto performs 20 compositions; the teaser trailer shows Sakamoto playing the score of Bernardo Bertoluccis The Sheltering Sky.

Sakamoto issued a statement about Opus prior to his passing, saying that the film was conceived as a way to record my performances  while I was still able to perform  in a way that is worth preserving for the future.

Opus is filmed at the NHK Broadcast Centers 509 Studio, which Sakamoto said had the finest acoustics in Japan. Cinematographer Bill Kirstein shot the film using three 4K cameras, with Sakamoto first recording his pieces on an iPhone from his home to construct the overall composition of the concert that will express the progression of time from morning into night.

He added, Everything was meticulously storyboarded so that the camera positions and the lighting changed significantly with each song.

Sakamoto said, I went into the shoot a little nervous, thinking this might be my last chance to share my performance with everyone in this way. In some sense, while thinking of this as my last opportunity to perform, I also felt that I was able to break new grounds. Simply playing a few songs a day with a lot of concentration was all I could muster at this point in my life. Perhaps due to the exertion, I felt utterly hollow afterwards, and my condition worsened for about a month. Even so, I feel relieved that I was able to record before my death  a performance that I was satisfied with.

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Opus is produced by Sakamotos manager and wife Norika Sora, along with Albert Tholen, Aiko Masubuchi, and Eric Nyari. Jeremy Thomas serves as an executive producer. Film Constellation is handling international sales.

Opus will premiere at the Venice Film Festival. Check out the teaser below.

Watch the teaser for Neo Sora's RYUICHI SAKAMOTO | OPUS, making its North American Premiere in the Spotlight section of #NYFF61 on October 11 & 12!



Full schedule : https://t.co/krP1xM5oJw



Passes : https://t.co/HLUwEsfkDo pic.twitter.com/p5rU1JTjb2  61st New York Film Festival (@TheNYFF) August 29, 2023

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Dennis Fischer Photography - Getty Images

New research has revealed the most popular countries for cruises among British travellers, and the top results might surprise you.

Insurance specialist AllClear Travel analysed Google search data to determine the ten most popular destinations, and Norway came out on top, with an average search volume of 134,018 a month.

CRUISE NORWAY WITH GH

And while it might not be the first place that springs to mind when you think of classic cruise destinations, it's easy to see why Norway appeals to many Brits.



First of all, with many Norway cruises departing directly from the UK, it's a great option for a no-fly holiday if you're trying to avoid the hassle of air travel.

Istock - Getty Images

And once you arrive, it won't take long to see why this Scandi gem tops the list. This land of astonishing natural beauty, from UNESCO-protected fjords to breathtaking glaciers and rugged coastlines is dotted with fishing villages of red wooden houses.

The landscapes of Norway are some of the most dramatic in Europe and are beautiful at any time of year. But if you visit between October and March you might also have the privilege of seeing them illuminated by the jaw-dropping Northern Lights.

In fact, Good Housekeeping has a 15-night cruise around Norway, which departs from Tilbury and sails into Nordfjord, with wonderful stops in Alta and Tromso.



Juan Maria Coy Vergara - Getty Images

It's easy to see why cruises are favoured when it comes to visiting in Norway. With so many of the country's attractions, like the fjords, glaciers, and pre-Viking villages, found on and around the water, a cruise is the best way to explore, allowing you to dock in hard-to-reach corners.

An expedition cruise, like a 15-day adventure at the end of this year, allows you to travel in the company of experts, who will help you truly immerse yourself if Norway's landscapes, and give you the best chance of seeing the spectacular Northern Lights, drawing on their in-depth knowledge of the landscapes and the skies.

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FIND OUT MORE

Other top cruise destinations

Norway was crowned the top cruise destinations, but there were other European favourites in the top ten cruise destinations from AllClear Travel's data.



Italy

In third place was Italy, an ideal destination if you're looking for a cruise that combines culture and history with time to relax and enjoy the sun with a glass of good wine and some delicious food.

AleksandarGeorgiev - Getty Images

Good Housekeeping's cruise of the Venetian Lagoon in April 2024 contains all the elements that make Italian cruises so wonderful.

There'll be plenty of incredible food (you'll even be joined by Michelin-starred chef Tom Kerridge) and you'll get to see several cultural highlights on this trip too, with VIP access to Doge's Palace and a special lighting ceremony in St Mark's Basilica.

CRUISE VENICE WITH GH

But Venice isn't the only city you can explore on an Italian cruise. With its historic Civitavecchia Port, Rome is a popular starting point for many Mediterranean cruises, including our 11-day cruise in October 2023, when you'll spend three nights in the heart of Rome's vibrant Monti district before setting sail.

VitalyEdush - Getty Images

Spain

It should come as no surprise that Spain is also on the top ten list, and that the second most popular region for cruises overall was the Mediterranean.

There are several beautiful and culturally-rich cities dotting Spain's Mediterranean coast, from Barcelona, with its unique architecture and distinct Catalan cuisine, to Valencia, the home of paella and horchata, and Tarragona, another Catalan gem with a fascinating Roman heritage.

Join Good Housekeeping's Mediterranean cruise in September or October and you'll dock in Valencia and Tarragona as well as Rome, Livorno and Genoa.

Dreamer4787 - Getty Images

Croatia

Also making the list of the top ten most popular countries for cruises is Croatia. With more than 1,100 miles of spectacular coastline along the Adriatic, and with over 1,200 islands and islets, exploring Croatia by boat just makes sense.

On our cruise of Croatia's pretty towns and islands in September or October 2023, you'll drop anchor in hidden coves, visit historic towns and spend evenings in the atmospheric streets of the Adriatics prettiest ports.

Top 10 places for a cruise holiday in 2023

Norway Greece Italy Iceland Australia Croatia Canada Dubai Spain Bahamas

Feeling inspired to take a cruise this year or next? Check out Good Housekeeping's selection of cruises for 2023 and 2024 and discover top destinations in Europe and beyond by water.

CRUISES WITH GH

You Might Also Like
Nam Song in New Briggate, Leeds, has announced its permanently closure during 'incredibly tough times' (Photo by Simon Hulme/National World)

Nam Song, in New Briggate, closed suddenly earlier this month  with a note on the door reading: Closed today for maintenance, sorry!. The restaurant has now announced it has permanently closed its Leeds site as the hospitality industry faces incredibly tough times.

The Vietnamese coffee house, cafe and restaurant was founded in Sheffield by two students who fell in love with Vietnam during their gap year. They opened the New Briggate site in summer 2021, after spending lockdown fitting out the site.

The restaurant in Sheffield remains open as usual.

Posting on Instagram today, the Nam Song team said: Weve got some sad news guys. Unfortunately weve had to take the incredibly difficult decision to close our site on New Briggate in Leeds.

"We spent the whole of a covid lockdown fitting out the site ourselves with a whole host of DIY skills learnt straight from YouTube and a boat load of Orange paint. Since then weve had a truly wonderful time the past few years sharing our lanterns, phin filters and Vietnamese goodness with you lovely lot in central Leeds.

"However, the world is a different place to that which it was when we opened. Times are incredibly tough right now for everyone, especially hospitality, and due to a number of factors it became clear it was for the best to shut up shop on New Briggate.

"Nam Song Broomhill in Sheffield is unaffected by this and will continue to operate as normal. Thanks for all your support in Leeds over the years.

The announcement is the latest of a number of business closures in Leeds this summer. Burger chain Honest Burger confirmed the permanent closure of its Leeds site earlier this month, just a year after it was opened, due to a change in customer demand in the city.

Outdoor venue Chow Down closed on August 6 due to the impact of the cost of living crisis, while the Michelin-recommended CORA in Boston Spa closed at the end of July. Its patron chef Liz Cottam said challenging times for the hospitality industry had been a battle that the restaurant was unable to overcome.
Police make the arrest in the Ormeau Road area of Belfast after officers intervened at the memorial marking the 29th anniversary of a loyalist massacre at the Sean Graham's bookmakers shop. (Photo: Pacemaker)

Mr Justice Scoffield quashed decisions to suspend one probationary constable and re-position his colleague following an outcry at how police handled the service marking an anniversary of the February 1992 Sean Graham bookmakers attack.

Five people were murdered and nine others wounded when loyalist gunmen opened fire inside the betting shop on the Ormeau Road in south Belfast.

In February 2021 the annual wreath-laying ceremony at the scene took place amid restrictions on public gatherings due to Covid-19 regulations.

During that event attended by up to 30 people, one man who had been shot and injured in the massacre was detained on suspicion of disorderly behaviour and put in handcuffs. He was later released without charge.

Chief Constable Simon Byrne later apologised for the incident and confirmed the disciplinary steps taken against the two recently-recruited officers.

Although the suspension and re-positioning decisions were lifted later that year following a review, both constables remained aggrieved at their treatment.

Backed by the Police Federation, the pair applied for a judicial review into the lawfulness of the disciplinary moves.

In a statement, one of the constables stressed they were unaware that a commemorative event was being held on the Ormeau Road. He claimed there was some hostility from within the gathering, with one man arrested after swearing and ignoring warnings about his behaviour.

The court heard he felt isolated, abandoned, embarrassed and demoralised by the decision to suspend him. A chief inspector who served him with the notice allegedly remarked that it was the first time in 30 years that he disagreed with a suspension decision, but was following lawful orders.

Counsel for the officers argued that the PSNI got it wrong by focusing on the fall-out, rather than the seriousness of any alleged misconduct.

Mr Justice Scoffield was told that as a Deputy Chief Constable went to deal with the incident he received a phone call from Sinn Feins police spokesperson, Gerry Kelly, as part of a frenzy of activity in the immediate aftermath.

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His attention was also drawn to the arrest being made within days of an alleged loyalist show of strength at Pitt Park in east Belfast where up to 60 masked men gathered without any immediate police intervention.

At the time Sinn Feins Deputy First Minister, Michelle ONeill, tweeted about an apparent culture of double standards in the PSNI and of turning a blind eye to UDA and UVF thugs, while targeting those laying flowers on the anniversary of loved ones.

Mr Byrne later confirmed that he spoke to her about the events on the Ormeau Road.

A barrister representing the Chief Constable insisted he had defused an unprecedented, critical incident which drew heavy criticism from Sinn Fein and jeopardised wider public confidence in Northern Irelands reformed police service.

Despite expressing sympathy for two young constables described as having acted over-zealously, counsel claimed the incident created an existential threat to the PSNI.

However, Mr Justice Scoffield ruled that it involved a legally impermissible assessment of the public interest.

Both the Deputy Chief Constable and the Chief Constable were acutely aware of the threat of Sinn Fein withdrawing support for policing and/or withdrawing from the Policing Board if immediate action was not taken in respect of the officers duty status, he said.

It is impossible to avoid the conclusion that the pressure so exerted was, in large measure, a result of a wholly separate and unrelated (Pitt Park) incident which was wrongly conflated with the actions of the applicants in the incident in which they were involved.

The judge held: I have been persuaded that the respondent imposed suspension in the first applicants case because of the threat (whether real or perceived) that, if it did not do so, republican support for policing would be withdrawn.

To reach a decision on that basis was in my view unlawful.

Despite acknowledging the difficult situation in which the PSNI was placed, he concluded that the decision to move the second officer was also influenced by the same threat, real or perceived, that one party would quit Northern Irelands Policing Board unless the duty status of both probationary constables at the commemoration event was changed.

Mr Justice Scoffield confirmed: I will allow the applicants judicial review on the limited grounds explained, and will quash the decision made to suspend the first applicant and the decision to re-position the second applicant.

Although the practical effect of those decisions has dissipated, given that they have previously been lifted upon review, I consider the applicants are entitled to a form of relief which removes those decisions from their records as a matter of law.
Rasmus Hojlund could make his debut for Manchester United this weekend against Arsenal.

That's according to Denmark manager Kasper Hjulmand, who has included the 20-year-old in his latest squad after watching the striker train at United's Carrington base.

Have two wins from their opening three games but have largely underwhelmed so far, so will welcome the opportunity to blood their 73million summer signing against the title hopefuls at the Emirates Stadium.

Ive been in Manchester to watch Rasmus train and hes in full gear, so hell probably be in the squad for the weekend," Hjulmand told reports.

(Manchester United via Getty Imag)

"There is of course a caveat, and he must show that he is ready this week."

Hjulmand also confirmed that a plan has been discussed with United over Hojlund's minutes for the forecoming international break.

Denmark play San Marino and Finland in Euros qualifiers next month.

"I have been in Manchester and have some clear agreements with the club," he said. "He should preferably get some minutes so that we can see that hes there.

"He lacks game time, thats clear, but hes going to play a role, so well have to see what he can do."
Steve Zsirai at Grappa at 266 Glossop Road which is set open in late autumn this year. (Photo: Submitted)

Grappa is set to be a restaurant and bar at 266 Glossop Road with outdoor terraza and music until 2am. A licensing application has been submitted to allow it to open until 2am Monday to Saturday, and until 1am on Sundays, if approved by Sheffield City Council.

The site was home to Sinclairs department store, famous for selling luxury goods for more than 50 years, from 1967 until 2019, before it moved to Ecclesall Road. The large unit was then taken over by burger restaurant So Famous, which closed following mixed reviews.

Now, Grappa founder, Steve Zsirai, is promising to set the standard for quality bar and dining in the area. The plan is to open in late autumn.

266 Glossop Road in Sheffield city centre, where a new late-night bar could open at the site of a former burger restaurant which before that was high-end department store Sinclairs.

No one knows the West Street area better, he claims. Mr Zsirai landed his first restaurant management job at K-Pasa way back in the late 1990s. He previously worked at the legendary Flying Pizza and was the brains behind the Tequila Bar, which continues to draw crowds on West Street week after week. One of his most popular ventures was Viva Tequila in the Gleadless area of Sheffield  the restaurant was one of the most popular eateries in the region during the late 1990s and early 2000s. He has also run one of Chesterfields highest-rated Italians, Giorgios, for the past 10 years.

Mr Zsirai said: If theres one thing Ive learned in my 30-plus years in the trade its the importance of providing customers with that holiday feeling and a sense of escapism. I always treat my staff like my extended family  and I believe that same feeling should be passed onto our customers.

Mr Zsirai says he was weened on the flavours and culture of Campania  the Italian region his mother grew up in and flavours and dishes from across Italy will dominate the Grappa menu.

It is also set to offer daytime coffee and lunch, after-work drinks and dinner. Plans show a rustic downstairs bar area and a more luxurious upstairs, 80-seater restaurant, connected by a 'breath-taking' mirrored staircase.

'Central to the DNA' of Grappa will be the legendary Italian liqueur of the same name. The Sheffield venue already has links with the Italian home of the drink  the country's oldest and most renowned distillery supplied Steve Zsirai with his very first bottles.

Steve Zsirai said: Well have more varieties and more opportunities to celebrate my home nation's official liqueur than anywhere else in the UK.
What can you do if your flight is delayed or cancelled? (image: Getty Images/PA)

The UK is facing days of travel chaos at airports after a technical fault with the countrys air traffic control systems led to the cancellation of hundreds of flights and the delay of hundreds more.

An issue was first discovered at the headquarters of the National Air Traffic Services (NATS) on Monday (29 August). It caused the flight planning system to melt down, instantly grounding dozens of flights.

While the glitch has been fixed, thousands of travellers have been forced to spend the night in airports across the UK, Ireland and continental Europe. Others may not be able to fly back to the UK for several days.

Strikes in Spain have led to multiple flight delays and cancellations (image: AFP/Getty Images)

It comes just days after a power outage at London Stansted airport led to flightsd taking off with no passengers on board. Passengers have already been hit by yet another summer of strikes and flight disruption.

So, if your flight has been delayed or cancelled, what are your rights - and how can you make a complaint to the different major airlines?

What are my rights for a delayed flight?

In the first instance, you should make sure the contact details youve given to your airline or tour operator are up to date.

That way, they can provide you with any last minute updates about flight cancellations so you dont have to queue or can rebook onto another flight more easily. If your flight is delayed, you may be entitled to help from your airline if it is an EU or UK-based carrier.

There are only certain circumstances where an airline doesnt have to help or compensate you (image: AFP/Getty Images)

This is certainly the case if the flight is delayed by strike action - although the industrial action has to be by the airlines own employees for you to qualify for a refund. Strikes by airport staff, such as air traffic controllers or baggage handlers, is considered to be beyond the airlines control and they are therefore not obliged to give you your money back.

However, if the strike action ends and there are still delays the following day because of it, the airline will have to cough up. The length of the flight youre meant to be on determines how long the delay has to be before you receive assistance:

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Less than 1,500km - a delay of 2 hours or over requires compensation

Between 1,500km and 3,500km - a delay of 3 hours

More than 3,500km - a delay of 4 hours

You can see how far your flight is meant to travel on the WebFlyer website. According to Citizens Advice, if you hit the length of delay for the type of flight youre on, you should get:

food and drink

access to phone calls and emails

accommodation if youre delayed overnight - and transfers between the airport and the hotel youre put up in

The airline will deal with you directly at the airport and may give you vouchers to get some of these things for yourself. If they dont give you any of the required help, Citizens Advice says you should keep hold of any receipts to claim at a later date any expenses you incurred.

If the delay was the fault of the airport, you may struggle to get compensation (image: PA)

These expenses are only likely to be fully compensated if they are deemed to be reasonable, so youre unlikely to receive money back for a luxury hotel.

If the flight arrives more than three hours late and it was the airlines fault - for example, a technical fault, or they overbooked the flight - you could get compensation under EU regulation 261. This law, which was copied into UK laws post-Brexit, sets out specific levels of compensation, again depending on how long your flight is.

A 3 hour-plus delay for a flight going less than 1,500km - 220

A delay of more than 3 hours for a flight between 1,500km and 3,500km - 350

4 hours or more for a trip of more than 3,500km - 520

You have to contact the airline to claim this compensation (more on this below). Bear in mind that if the delay was as a result of something outside of the airlines control - e.g. bad weather - they dont have to compensate you.

A delay of five hours or more means the airline legally has to give you:

Airports are in charge of security, while airlines are in control of check-in and baggage drop areas (image: AFP/Getty Images)

a full refund for the flight

a full refund for other flights from the airline that you wont use in the same booking, eg a connecting flight or a return flight

if youre part-way through a journey, a flight back to the airport you originally departed from

You have to inform the airline as soon as you can if you wont be accepting the free flight. The refunded money should take no more than a week to reach you. If you do decide to take the flight, you can claim up to 520 in compensation if the delay was the airlines fault.

What if the delay was at the airport?

Some of the main causes of flight delays at UK airports over the last 12 months have been as a result of staff shortages or IT issues - sometimes both simultaneously. These have led to delays going through security and passport control - issues that are under the remit of the airport and not the airline.

According to consumer website Which?, if you miss your flight because of airport queues, its unlikely youll receive compensation or a refund. This is because most UK airports do not have policies covering such eventualities. But you may be able to get your money back through your travel insurance policy.

Which? points out that you could claim frustrated contract and argue the airport is at fault for you missing your flight  but this would be likely to result in you having to take the airline to court.

The check-in desk and bag drop are the airlines responsibility, so you can claim from them in the event of long queues resulting in you missing your flight - as long as you arrived at the airport when you were told to. But once again, the claim process is not as simple as it is with the actual flights themselves. You may have to claim against the consumer rights act, which could also involve a court date.

The best thing to do if youre stuck in a queue and time is running out for you to make your flight is to tell airport staff. They may be able to scoot you through queues to give you a chance of catching your flight. Some airlines might put you on their next flight to that destination free of charge.

Delays of more than two hours for short haul flights can mean youre entitled to assistance and compensation (image: Getty Images)

What are my rights for a cancelled flight?

If your flight is cancelled outright, you have a legal right under the Denied Boarding Regulations to either:

a full refund - including other flights from the airline that you wont use in the same booking, such as return flights

a replacement flight to get you to your destination (the airline must book you on a route thats as close to your original journey timings as possible)

if youre part-way through a journey and you dont want a replacement flight, you also have a right to a flight back to the airport you flew out of.

For refunds or replacement flights, its best to ask for them at the airport - if you can. If thats not possible, you can claim them from the airline later either on the website or over the phone. You also have a legal right to:

help with costs - if the cancellation delays you by two-plus hours

compensation - if youd be delayed two or more hours by the replacement flight offered and you were given under two weeks notice by the airline

Again, compensation depends on how long your original flight was meant to be and how much of a delay you endure as a result of the cancellation. It also hinges on how far in advance the flight was cancelled.

For a full breakdown of what compensation you might be due, visit the Citizens Advice website. Its vital to be aware that the airline doesnt have to compensate you if what are called extraordinary circumstances are at play. This term covers things that arent under the airlines control - like extreme weather or air traffic control glitches (but its up to the airline to prove it).

Again, cancellations caused by strike action can be compensated, so long as the airline didnt give you two weeks warning of the cancellation and the industrial action was by the airlines staff.

How can I claim compensation from airlines?

You have to contact the airline to be in with a chance of getting any compensation if your flight is cancelled or delayed. You must approach the airline operating the flight, even if you booked it through a different operator. Youll need to give the airlines customer services department details, such as:

your flight details

booking reference numbers.

Be sure to keep a record of who you spoke to and what they told you. If writing to the airline, youll have to provide these details, copies of your tickets, any receipts, as well as a description of what went wrong, plus how much you feel you should be compensated.

If the airline is pushing back on your right to compensation or a particular amount of compensation, you can make a Section 75 claim to your card provider (if you spent over 100 on tickets). This will see your card provider take up the dispute with the airline on your behalf.

You can also complain to an independent organisation like the alternative dispute resolution (ADR) body (if the airlines a member of one). If the airlines not a member of an ADR, you should report your problem to the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA)s Passenger Advice and Complaints Team (PACT).

Here are the numbers and links for how to get in touch with the UKs biggest airlines:

You can also contact contact Citizens Advices consumer helpline on: 0808 223 1133
Young Tibetan woman becomes modern farmer in SW China's Xizang

People's Daily Online) 15:11, August 29, 2023

Kelsang Wangmo, a Tibetan woman, returned home after she graduated from college to set up a vegetable company together with her elder sister in Bainang county, Xigaze city, southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region in 2018.

To better operate the company and help more villagers become better off, she learned the latest techniques for planting fruits and vegetables in east China's Shandong Province in 2021, and brought new varieties to the plateau county for trial planting.

Photo shows a highland barley field in Pengcang village, Bazha township, Bainang county, Xigaze city, southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region. (Photo/Xie Mu)

"Organic vegetables will be a direction for the future vegetable market. Sensors and cameras are now installed in several greenhouses to make vegetable planting more intelligent. Consumers can watch the growth of vegetables on their mobile phones," said Kelsang Wangmo.

In 2023, vegetables from Kelsang Wangmo's company, such as cabbages, tomatoes, chili peppers, and summer squashes, were recognized as organic ones.

Bainang county is situated in the Nyangchu River basin. Modern greenhouses now dot the county.

Photo shows Kelsang Wangmo, who returned home after she graduated from college to set up a vegetable company in Bainang county, Xigaze city, southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region. (Photo/Xie Mu)

Over 20 years ago, the county government and officials from Shandong Province aiding Xizang mobilized local villagers to grow greenhouse vegetables, gradually replacing traditional agriculture and animal husbandry with modern agriculture.

As the birthplace of the county's first vegetable greenhouse, Pengcang village in Bazha township has become a model of vegetable planting in the county.

"We have spurred farmers' enthusiasm for growing vegetables and fruits, and expanded sales channels by such means as holding a harvest festival, a picking festival, and a giant watermelon competition for several consecutive years," said Tawang, head of the agriculture and animal husbandry comprehensive service center in Bazha township.

Photo shows tomato plants in a greenhouse in Bainang county, Xigaze city, southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region. (Photo/Xie Mu)

In addition to Bainang county, fruits and vegetables produced in greenhouses in the township are also sold to Xigaze city and will reach farther places, Tawang added.

(Web editor: Hongyu, Liang Jun)
Sarah Crowe, who serves as communications and strategic engagement manager for Hall County, Georgia, said she owes all of her professional success to the University of North Georgia (UNG). Crowe graduated summa cum laude from UNG in May 2017 with a degree in communications with a concentration in organizational leadership.

"Leadership means being there and supporting the people you work with to help elevate them," Crowe said. "For me, it's all about service to others, being dependable, being responsible, and being empathetic."

She spent nearly four years as a career services coordinator at Lanier Technical College before joining Hall County as a public information officer in 2022, and was promoted nine months later to her current role. Crowe previously served as an academic advisor at UNG.

Supplemental Instruction was an integral part of her journey at UNG. She served as a facilitator in the program for one year and a mentor for two years while helping other students better understand their coursework.

"Supplemental Instruction gave me the self-esteem I didn't have. It helped me discover talents I didn't know I had," Crowe said. "The mentoring relationships with the instructors really helped me to grow as a person."

She said UNG was a refreshing environment for her, thanks to the bonds she formed with her fellow students and faculty and staff.

"UNG was such a great growing experience for me because I got to see people lifting other people up," Crowe said. "That was such a huge part of my experience at UNG. Everybody was cheering everybody else on."

Crowe is an Air Force veteran and received the Distinguished Female Leader award from the Women of UNG in 2017. She believes in having a team mindset and active listening that enables her to grow.

"You have to be a lifelong learner and recognize that other people have strengths that are different than your own," Crowe said. "How can we all work together and use our strengths to reach the goal?"
CAN THO  Phase 1 of the Vietnam-Singapore Industrial Park (VSIP) project in Vinh Thanh District in the Mekong Delta city of Can Tho will begin construction on September 9, according to the municipal Peoples Committee.

The launch is expected to see the presence of about 300 delegates, including representatives of the Singaporean Embassy in Ha Noi, the Singaporean Consulate General in Can Tho, ministries, and central agencies. It will also form part of the activities marking the 50th anniversary of the two countries diplomatic ties.

At the ceremony, the municipal administration will hand over memoranda of understanding on investment between the VSIP and potential clients, along with another on industrial park expansion orientations between Can Tho and the VSIP, the People's Committee noted.

Anthony Tan, General Director of the Can Tho VSIP Joint Stock Company, said that the park in Vinh Thanh District would be an industrial, residential, and logistic service complex meeting green and sustainability criteria.

The Can Tho VSIP project was approved by the Prime Minister and granted the investment registration certificate by the municipal Peoples Committee in October 2022.

Phase 1 will cover 293.7ha of land and have total investment of over VN3.7 trillion (US$153.8 million). During this phase, the project will also supply support services for factories in nearby areas and Can Tho at large, along with those for labourers working at the VSIP.

The VSIP joint venture, formed by Sembcorp of Singapore and Becamex IDC of Vietnam, is the biggest industrial park developer in the country at present. It set up the first VSIP in southern Binh Duong Province in 1996. So far, 11 VSIPs have been put into operation nationwide, and the one in Can Tho is the first in the Mekong Delta.  VNS
HCM CITY  The first Vietnam ASEAN International Furniture & Home Accessories Fair opened at the Saigon Exhibition and Convention Centre in HCM Citys District 7 on August 29, providing a platform for furniture and home accessories producers to display their products and connect with prospective buyers from all over the world.

VIFA ASEAN has 600 booths set up by nearly 200 exhibitors from 12 localities across the country, such as HCM City, Binh Duong, Long An and Binh Phuoc, and 11 countries and territories, including the US, Korea, China, Japan, India, the Netherlands, Hong Kong, Malaysia, and Thailand, ang Quoc Hung, director of the Alliance Handicraft Wooden Fine Art Corporation (Lien Minh Company), one of the organisers, said.

Products on display include indoor and outdoor furniture, home decoration and handicrafts, raw wood, machinery, equipment, accessories, and tools for the wood processing and handicrafts industries.

The furniture products are not only diverse in design but are also of high quality and meet international standards to enable exports.

The highlight of the fair is an "ASEAN House" to introduce the regions unique handicrafts to international buyers.

The fair also includes specialised seminars to help the industry promote exports on e-commerce platforms) and update policies related to production and import-export, and tours to factories in Binh Duong Province on August 30 and 31.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Tran Ngoc Liem, director of the Viet Nam Chamber of Commerce and Industrys HCM City branch, said exports of wooden products in the first seven months of the year were down by 26.2 per cent from the same period last year to US$7.2 billion.

But there were signs of recovery in July, as exports rose by 2.8 per cent year-on-year to $1.1 billion, with shipments to markets such as Turkey, India, Chile, Cambodia, Poland, and Norway seeing sharp rises, he said.

VIFA ASEAN Fair will be an effective promotion channel that helps wood industry enterprises introduce and promote their brands, expand markets, actively participate in global value chains, helping achieve the target of making the wood processing industry an important sector by 2030, building and developing the Vietnamese wood product brand in the domestic and international markets, and making Viet Nam among the leading countries in the world in terms of production, processing and export of wood and wood products.

Hung said the fair would be a great exchange event that brings many buyers to exhibitors to partially solve the current order difficulties.

Organised by Lien Minh Company, VCCI-HCM City and the Viet Nam Coconut Association, the fair will run until September 1.

Also at the opening ceremony, Lien Minh Company, the VCCI, the Viet Nam Coconut Association, and the industry and trade departments of Binh Phuoc, Tay Ninh, Long An, and HCM City signed agreements to organise VIFA EXPO 2024 and VIFA ASEAN 2024.  VNS
HCM CITY  A Couple Run 2023 event was held to raise money for a mass wedding prorgamme in HCM City, attracting thousands of participants.

On the morning of August 27, a 5-kilometre run was held at Tan Thuan Export Processing Zone in HCM Citys District 7, to mark the beginning of the city's collective wedding programme for 2023.

According to the organisers, besides enhancing their physical health, participants in the race (who are couples) also contributed to fundraising efforts to support this year's collective wedding event.

The 2023 collective wedding ceremony is expected to involve around 150 couples who face difficulties and lack the means to hold a complete wedding celebration.

Priority is given to workers and laborers in industrial zones and export processing zones. The ceremony also welcomes couples who are state employees, teachers, and military personnel currently working in agencies, institutions, schools, and businesses.

This mass wedding is not only for couples within the HCM City area; those from neighbouring regions can also register to participate.

Speaking at the event, Le Hoang Minh, the Director of the Youth Workers Support Center of HCM City, stated that the collective wedding ceremony contributes to honoring the beauty of the traditional national culture.

The event encourages the organisation of weddings in a civilised and cost-effective manner, demonstrating the spirit of mutual affection and solidarity, which are inherent characteristics of the people of HCM City.

"I find this activity extremely meaningful and positive. Everyone who participated in the morning run did so with smiles on their faces," said Phi Hoang after completing the race.

Over the past 13 years, the collective wedding ceremony has become a cherished tradition in HCM City.

About 1,022 couples facing difficulties and unable to afford their own weddings have had dignified and complete wedding ceremonies through this programme over the years.  VNS
HA NOI  Deputy Prime Minister Le Minh Khai received visiting Saudi Arabian Minister of Tourism Ahmed bin Aqeel-Khateeb in Ha Noi on Monday, affirming that Viet Nam attaches importance to the enhancement of the friendship and multifaceted cooperation with Saudi Arabia, an important partner in the Middle East.

As the two countries will celebrate the 25th anniversary of their diplomatic ties in 2024, Khai asked both sides to coordinate in holding various activities on that occasion, especially promoting tourism and cultural exchanges to help improve mutual understanding between the two peoples.

Applauding progress in bilateral cooperation, he expressed his hope that Viet Nam will expand connections with not only Saudi Arabia but also others in the Arab and Muslim communities.

Saudi Arabia is one of Viet Nam's leading economic partners in the Middle East, with bilateral trade surging 32.4 per cent year on year to US$2.7 billion in 2022, he said, noting that he hopes investment links between the two sides, including in green energy development, will grow more fruitfully.

The official called on Saudi Arabia to help Viet Nam develop the Halal industry and access the Halal goods and service markets in Saudi Arabia and other Islamic countries through production investment, manpower training, and experience sharing.

He also suggested the Middle Eastern nation import more products of Viet Nam's strength, such as rice, tea, peppercorn, coffee, rubber, and apparel.

Talking about the Saudi Fund for Development (SFD), the host proposed Ahmed bin Aqeel-Khateeb, who is also SFD Chairman, keep supporting Viet Nam's cooperation with the fund so as to promote the continued provision of concessional loans for social security projects in the Southeast Asian country.

Since the Saudi Arabian minister also serves as head of the Executive Council of the UN World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO), Khai thanked the organisation for assisting Viet Nam with tourism planning and tourism product development. He asked his guest as the UNWTO leader to promote this organisations support for and coordination with Viet Nam to hold major UNWTO events here.

The Deputy PM also called on Saudi Arabia to help Viet Nam develop tourism infrastructure and the products that Arabian people have demand for to boost tourism connectivity between the two countries.

Congratulating Viet Nam on the coming National Day (September 2), Ahmed bin Aqeel-Khateeb highlighted the two countries cooperation results for the last over 20 years.

He said he hopes Viet Nam and Saudi Arabia will press on with partnerships in such fields as energy (petrochemistry and green energy), investment, manufacturing, culture, the Halal industry, tourism, and sports.

The minister affirmed that Saudi Arabia will do its utmost to assist Vietnamese businesses to invest in the country and others in the Middle East.  VNS
HA NOI  Full-time National Assembly (NA) deputies have discussed draft laws, to be submitted to the legislatures sixth meeting in October, at a conference in Ha Noi on Monday.

In his opening remarks, NA Chairman Vuong inh Hue noted that the conference, the fourth of its kind in the 15th tenure, is to make the best possible preparations for the sixth sitting.

The amended laws to be scrutinised in the conference includes the Land Law, the Housing Law, the Law on Real Estate Business, the Law on Water Resources, the Law on Telecommunications, and the Law on Citizenship Identity, along with the Law on Management and Protection of National Defence Works and Military Zones, according to the chief legislator.

Following the fifth meeting, which took place from May 22 to June 26, there have been many workshops and seminars to collect opinions of experts, agencies and organisations on draft laws.

The legal documents were also tabled for discussions in July and August sessions of the NA Standing Committee, Hue continued, noting that the number of the draft laws to be debated at the conference is the biggest so far.

He asked the deputies to look into the harmony between the bills and major policies, orientations and principles, especially those linked with each other like the Land Law, the Housing Law, and the Law on Real Estate Business.

He emphasised the importance of a thorough review of the political and legal basis, constitutionality, legitimacy, uniformity, quality of the legal system, thus making no loopholes for corruption and other negative phenomena.

Hue urged the deputies to carry forwards their sense of responsibility to join discussions, contributing quality opinions to the draft laws.

Also on the same day, the NA deputies discussed the revised Law on Citizenship Identity.

NA Vice Chairman Tran Quang Phuong said that regarding the proposal to change the name of the Law on Citizenship Identity to the Identity Card Law, there were 17 opinions in favour of this change while 22 suggested keeping the current name of the law during the 5th session. They also proposed regulations on issuing appropriate documents for people of Vietnamese origin residing in Viet Nam but whose nationality have not yet been determined.

Nguyen Thi Viet Nga, NA deputy in northern Hai Duong Province expressed her support for renaming it as the Identity Card Law. She argued that this name aligned better with the scope of regulation and the subjects covered by the proposed law, which included both Vietnamese citizens and individuals of Vietnamese origin residing in Viet Nam but without confirmed nationality.

She stated that this change would be in line with the policies, goals, and orientations in building the law.

Nga stressed that many individuals of Vietnamese origin residing in Viet Nam but without confirmed nationality were vulnerable, impoverished, jobless, homeless, and without proper documentation. Without an identity card, proof of identity, or personal history, these individuals would remain on the fringes of society, unable to access social welfare programmes, leading to various social burdens, she added.

Pham Van Hoa, NA deputy in southern ong Thap Province argued that some delegates were concerned about the cost of changing the card's name. However, according to the draft proposal, individuals who already had identity cards with chips would not be required to replace them, thus not incurring additional expenses.

Furthermore, the scope of the identity card also covered the subjects of the law, including Vietnamese citizens and individuals of Vietnamese origin residing in Viet Nam but without confirmed nationality.

This was a new, appropriate, and necessary development. Therefore, the name change to the Identity Card Law was entirely in line with practical needs, he said.

In conclusion, NA Vice Chairman Phuong stated that most delegates concurred with the report, and made some adjustments to the draft law.

"Regardless of the chosen option, it is essential to design regulations for issuing suitable documents in practice for individuals of Vietnamese origin without confirmed nationality," he emphasised.

The NA Standing Committee will direct the drafting agencies to fully incorporate the official opinions regarding the law's name into written documents. These will be submitted for review and approval by the competent authorities before being submitted for approval at the 6th session in October.  VNS
HA NOI  President Vo Van Thuong has hailed the significance of the ongoing Viet Nam visit by Singaporean Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong, saying that it creates a new driving force to lift bilateral ties to a greater height.

During a reception in Ha Noi on Monday for the Singaporean leader, President Thuong said his visit takes place at a time when the two countries are celebrating the 50th anniversary of bilateral diplomatic ties and the 10th anniversary of strategic partnership.

He expressed his belief that Singapore will continue growing dynamically and achieve the "Green Plan 2030 soon, toward building a harmonious and increasingly prosperous society.

On the occasion, the host extended his regards to Singaporean President Halimah Yacob.

PM Lee, for his part, affirmed that Singapore always values and wishes to strengthen its strategic partnership with Vietnam. He also welcomed the upgrade of bilateral relationship to a new level in the near future.

Informing the host about the success of his talks with the Vietnamese counterpart and the signing of seven cooperation agreements on this occasion, he stressed that Singapore welcomes the upgrade of the connectivity framework agreement between the two economies, as well as the expansion of cooperation in energy and human resources development.

Viet Nam is a highly promising partner of Singapore in the region, he said. He also agreed to enhance the sharing of experience in economic management, urban management and human resources development.

On the back of achievements in bilateral ties over the past five decades, especially in economy, national defence-security, education and training, the two leaders vowed to effectively deploy the partnership in digital economy - green economy, which was established in February.

They welcomed the facilitation of exchanges and interactions at all levels across all channels, including the Party, State, Government, and National Assembly; implement bilateral cooperation mechanisms effectively, especially the ministerial mechanism on connecting the two economies.

The two sides also underscored the importance of expanding the successful Viet Nam-Singapore Industrial Park (VSIP) model and strengthening educational collaboration while fostering people-to-people exchanges, especially among young generations of both countries.

Apart from advancing traditional areas of cooperation, the leaders pledged to intensify joint work in new fields, such as innovation, clean energy, just energy transition, digital transformation and talent exchange for innovation.

On global and regional issues, they concurred that amid the complex and uncertain developments in the world, both sides should uphold their shared stance and offer mutual support for peace, stability, cooperation and development.

They also affirmed the significance of maintaining ASEAN solidarity and common stance on important global and regional issues, including the East Sea (known internationally as the South China Sea) issue.  VNS
HA NOI  United States President Joe Biden will pay a visit to Viet Nam on September 10-11, according to an announcement from the spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Viet Nam on Tuesday.

The trip is made at the invitation of General Secretary of the Communist Party of Viet Nam Nguyen Phu Trong, spokesperson Pham Thu Hang said.

"We believe that the visits of the high-level leaders of the two countries will deepen Viet Nam-US relations, help develop bilateral ties in a stable, substantial, and long-term manner across all fields, contributing to the maintenance of peace, stability, cooperation, and development in the region and in the world," Hang noted.

Also according to the statement from the White House, while in Ha Noi, other than meeting with the Vietnamese Party leader, President Biden will also meet with other key leaders to discuss ways to further deepen cooperation between the US and Viet Nam.

"The leaders will explore opportunities to promote the growth of a technology-focused and innovation-driven Vietnamese economy, expand our people-to-people ties through education exchanges and workforce development programmes, combat climate change, and increase peace, prosperity, and stability in the region," the statement reads.

Viet Nam and the US is celebrating the 10th anniversary of Comprehensive Partnership (July 25, 2013-2023).

The visits to the US by Party General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong, Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc, and Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh in 2015, 2017 and 2022, respectively; and the visits to Viet Nam by President Barack Obama, President Donald Trump in 2017 and 2019, and Vice President Kamala Harris in 2021 were prominent events in the high-level delegation exchanges between the two countries.

Two-way trade has passed US$123 billion last year, making the US the second biggest trade partner of Viet Nam and one of the country's most important export markets. Currently, the US ranks 11th out of the 142 countries and territories investing in Viet Nam VNS
HA NOI  Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh emphasised on Tuesday the pioneering and pivotal role young people in Viet Nam and Singapore will play to pave the way for the rapid and sustainable development of both countries.

In the future, they will help contribute to the bilateral strategic partnership, promoting peace, stability, cooperation, and development in the region and the world.

The PM was speaking during a meeting and dialogue with exemplary young leaders from Viet Nam and Singapore, as part of the official visit to Viet Nam by Singaporean Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong.

This event was within the framework of the 2023 Viet Nam-Singapore Young Leaders Dialogue Programme. The programme, which was jointly organised by the National Committee on Youth of Vietnam and the National Youth Council of Singapore, aimed to promote solidarity and cultural exchanges among young leaders from both nations and enhance their understanding and sharing of experiences in digital transformation.

During the meeting, young leaders from Viet Nam and Singapore reported the outcomes of discussions and initiatives developed by the delegations from both countries after undergoing learning journeys on digital transformation in both countries.

They expressed hope for Viet Nam and Singapore to elevate their relationship to new heights. In particular, young delegates expressed their desire for the leaders of both countries to continue supporting and creating conditions for youth to fulfil their roles and aspirations in the development of each nation and in advancing the Viet Nam-Singapore Strategic Partnership.

PM Lee expressed his delight at witnessing the enthusiasm, vitality and aspirations of the young generations. He said that both countries were in the midst of profound transformation with many opportunities for cooperation to improve the lives of their people.

He stressed the importance of young people understanding the changes in both domestic and regional situations and the opportunities provided.

PM Chinh stated that after 50 years of diplomatic relations, the Viet Nam-Singapore relationship was developing remarkably well across various sectors.

He encouraged cooperation among the youth in new areas such as digital transformation, green transition, circular economy, sharing economy and innovation, and stressed the importance of open discussions on issues with differing viewpoints in order to reach consensus.

PM Chinh said that their voices and contributions were crucial for the sustainable development of each nation, and urged them to remain steadfast, resolute, and daring in tackling difficult and significant issues.

He highlighted the importance of pioneering in education, improving essential knowledge and skills necessary to adapt and master the future of the fourth industrial revolution while taking the lead in contributing to society and community.

On the same day, PM Chinh and his Singaporean counterpart Lee Hsien Loong, along with their spouses, met with outstanding students from the Viet Nam National University of Ha Noi.

During the meeting, the two Prime Ministers shared insights on Singapore's education, science, technology, and innovation policies; a partnership between the two countries in the fields of digital transformation and green economy as well as the exchange of ideas in various sectors such as research, innovation, and artificial intelligence.

PM Lee said that Singapore was open to citizens and businesses from various countries, including Viet Nam, for entrepreneurial opportunities.

Singapore was committed to educating and advocating for environmental protection. Currently, Singapore was implementing measures to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, a goal shared with Viet Nam, he said.

In response to students' questions regarding the Viet Nam-Singapore digital economy-green economy, PM Chinh explained that within this cooperative framework, the two countries would collaborate and support each other in developing technology infrastructure, building databases, sharing management expertise, training human resources, and enhancing cybersecurity.

This effort was aimed at achieving a digital government, digital citizens, and a digital society.

In the realm of green development, both sides would cooperate, support, and exchange technology, finance, human resources, scientific management, and institution-building to facilitate the transition to green and sustainable energy sources, particularly wind and solar energy.

Addressing the concerns of students about the future of the young generation, the PM emphasised they should cultivate ethical values, acquire knowledge, maintain their passion, and work together to build a peaceful, friendly, and prosperous world, including nurturing the ever-growing Viet Nam-Singapore relationship.

The two Prime Ministers also witnessed the signing of an agreement between the Viet Nam National University of Ha Noi, the Viet Nam National University of HCM City, and Singapores Nanyang Technological University.  VNS
HA NOI  Minister of Foreign Affairs Bui Thanh Son hosted a reception in Ha Noi on Tuesday for Governor of Japan's Nagasaki prefecture Oishi Kengo, who is on a working visit to Viet Nam from August 27-31.

Foreign minister Son highly valued Governor Oishi's efforts in promoting cooperation and exchanges between Nagasaki prefecture and Viet Nam in general and Vietnamese localities in particular in the past time.

He expressed his pleasure with the sound, rapid and comprehensive development of the Viet Nam-Japan relations with high political trust, affirming that Viet Nam considers locality-to-locality cooperation an important, substantive and effective channel to strengthen economic, trade and labour cooperation, and to promote people-to-people exchanges between the two countries.

The minister highly appreciated and thanked the Nagasaki administration as well as Governor Oishi for always paying attention to promoting the development of friend and cooperation between Nagasaki and Viet Nam, especially between the Japanese prefecture and Quang Nam Province, the place that still preserves many vestiges of the exchange relations between the two countries more than 400 years ago.

Son suggested Oishi promote the prefectures businesses to boost investment and business in Viet Nam, especially in potential fields such as high-quality agriculture, fishery, manufacturing and supporting industry as well as strengthen human resources training and people-to-people exchanges, thereby creating an important foundation for enhancing long-term cooperation between Nagasaki and Viet Nam.

For his part, Governor Oishi expressed his impression of Viet Nam's socio-economic development achievements in recent years.

He briefed his host about the outcome of cooperation between Nagasaki prefecture and Quang Nam Province and agreed to support the expansion of collaboration between Nagasaki and other localities of Viet Nam in the fields of investment, trade, culture and tourism.

The governor spoke highly of contributions of the nearly 3,000 Vietnamese community to the prefecture's socio-economic development. He expressed his wish to expand the reception of Vietnamese trainees, nurses and workers, and pledged to continue to create favourable conditions for Vietnamese people to live, study and work in the locality.  VNS
HA NOI  President Vo Van Thuong received the newly accredited ambassadors of Ireland, Italy, the Republic of Korea (RoK), and Lithuania who came to present their credentials at the Presidential Palace in Ha Noi on Tuesday.

Congratulating Deirdre Ni Fhalluin on her appointment as Irish Ambassador to Viet Nam, President Thuong expressed his belief that Fhalluin will make substantial contributions to the two countries relations.

Fhallin noted with satisfaction the recovery and enhancement of bilateral relations after the COVID-19 pandemic, saying the two sides have increased all-level mutual visits.

She said the Irish President is very impressed with his previous visit to Viet Nam and hopes that the Vietnamese President will visit Ireland soon.

The ambassador went on to say that during her term in Viet Nam, a new strategy will be carried out so that cooperation will become more productive and practical on the basis of the existing pillars, including official development assistance (ODA), education and training, and people-to-people exchanges.

The host leader appreciated the opinions and asked both sides to promote collaboration in all fields, from politics, diplomacy, economy, investment to education and training and people-to-people exchanges, and share common perceptions about regional and international issues.

Viet Nam wishes the two countries will further expand cooperation to new areas in order to generate practical benefits for each side, he emphasised.

He also affirmed relevant agencies of Viet Nam will work closely with the ambassador, adding that he believes Fhalluin will succeed in helping realise both countries development expectations.

At the reception for Italian Ambassador Marco Della Seta, President Thuong thanked the Italian Embassy for its coordination with Vietnamese agencies to help with his recent fruitful State visit to the European country.

He wished the diplomat a successful term to strongly step up the two countries relations in the spirit of their strategic partnership.

Seta said his country highly values the Presidents visit, and that he will quickly start his work in Viet Nam, especially the implementation of the joint statement on enhancing the bilateral strategic partnership, including opening an Italian culture centre in Viet Nam, fostering cultural ties, and boosting people-to-people exchanges.

The two sides will also tighten economic and trade links, as well as cooperation at international and multinational forums, the ambassador went on.

Thuong said he believes with the close and effective coordination from relevant Vietnamese agencies, Seta will help to significantly step up the countries strategic partnership in all aspects.

Viet Nam pledges to actively and effectively carry out the joint statement between the two countries leaders, Thuong remarked, describing action as an important factor of cooperation achievements while calling for stronger cooperation in the coming time.

Talking to RoK Ambassador Choi Young-sam, the President voiced his belief that as an experienced diplomat, Choi will take practical measures to help the two countries relations secure even greater attainments.

Thuong held that the recent visit to Vietnam by RoK President Yoon Sok Yeol has heralded a new period of bilateral cooperation.

Ambassador Choi noted President Yoon highly valued the outcomes of his trip to Viet Nam and stressed Viet Nam is a highly important partner of the Northeast Asian nation.

He pledged utmost efforts to further promote the two sides comprehensive strategic partnership, which is now in its prime.

The diplomat called on Vietnamese ministries, sectors, and localities to continue supporting Korean companies investment and business activities. He also proposed cooperation be strengthened in climate change response and economic security.

He also expressed his hope that President Thuong will pay a visit to the RoK in the near future. In response, the host leader said the trip will be arranged at a suitable point of time.

At the meeting with Lithuanian Ambassador Darius Gaidys, President Thuong affirmed that Viet Nam attaches importance to relations with the European country, adding he believes during Gaidyss term, relations between both nations will record faster progress.

The new ambassador said the Lithuanian Government is implementing a new development strategy that is favourable for reinforcing ties with Viet Nam.

He suggested both sides explore new cooperation opportunities apart from food trading, and increase delegation exchanges at all levels so as to enhance all-round ties in the time ahead.

President Thuong perceived that there remains much room for bilateral ties, particularly in economy, trade and investment. He stated Viet Nam wishes to boost collaboration with Lithuania in all spheres, from politics, diplomacy, culture to trade, investment, and people-to-people exchanges.

He showed his support for the ambassadors proposals, especially increasing all-level mutual visits to bolster cooperation chances.

The State leader added that he hopes to welcome the Lithuanian President on a visit to Viet Nam in the coming time.  VNS
The draft circular on standards for higher education, proposed by the Ministry of Education and Training in 2021, has gained significant attention from higher education institutions as it will set the requirements that universities must achieve.

Deputy Minister of Education and Training, Hoang Minh Son, spoke with Vietnam News Agency on the establishment of higher education standards and how they should be based on practical surveys from universities and take into account international experiences.

Could you please tell us about the goals of the draft law. How will these standards differ from those that universities are currently using?

The standards outlined in the draft circular will be the minimum requirements for universities to maintain their operations. They will also serve as a basis to ensure the quality of institutions, reducing risks for all stakeholders, including the State, businesses, and especially the students who invest their money and time.

These standards will also help students evaluate institutions through specific and objective data instead of relying on subjective opinions.

By setting minimum requirements, the draft circular aims to gradually strengthen and enhance the quality of higher education. Along with the implementation of planning, localities and universities will have to invest in improving conditions to meet these standards.

Higher education standards differ from quality assurance standards in terms of purpose, nature, content, and implementation process.

In simple terms, higher education standards include specific operational parameters of a university. This is similar to receiving a medical check-up, blood pressure, or blood tests, which provide common indicators for easy comparison. Just as in health check-ups, these indicators show if there are any abnormal issues.

On the other hand, quality evaluation and assurance are much more complex tasks that require an assessment of the institution's activities over many years based on qualitative criteria, aligned with the mission and goals of each institution. This evaluation needs experts to analyse and make recommendations. This is similar to medical diagnoses and treatment prescriptions, which sometimes require consultations.

Higher education standards are minimum requirements that every institution must meet, while the evaluation and assurance depend on each institution's mission and goals. Institutions must comply with the minimum requirements specified in the higher education standards to meet the evaluation criteria, but even if they meet those standards, they may not meet the evaluation if they set very high missions and goals.

The indicators of higher education standards need to be monitored and published annually for students and society. Meanwhile, the evaluation and assurance process is conducted every five years to provide comprehensive reports, based on which higher education institutions develop strategies for improvement.

Viet Nam has 242 universities. Could you elaborate on the criteria set by the Ministry of Education and Training, and how they can be applicable to all universities?

This is the most challenging issue and one of the reasons why the draft circular has taken three years to complete. Establishing a set of six groups of standards is relatively straightforward, but within each group, determining the specific criteria, essential conditions, and the threshold for meeting the standards requires extensive discussion.

The ministry's perspective is that the criteria should be simple, easy to calculate, and quantifiable while also reflecting relatively comprehensive and essential requirements for a university to operate normally.

The drafting committee and the team of experts must refer to various sources. First, they draw from the practical management experience accumulated by the Ministry of Education and Training over the years.

They also consider experiences from other countries, international organisations, and foreign universities to see how they evaluate the importance of different criteria.

Some criteria are very common, like measuring quality through the employment rate of graduates, but there are also some that are relatively new to us. For instance, financial criteria, which we have paid less attention to in the past, are crucial for some countries in assessing the risks of a university concerning investors and students.

Regarding practical data, we have two sources: general data provided by the ministry, and the data filled out by the universities in the survey forms of the ministry. Based on this data, we compare international standards and determine the appropriate and feasible thresholds for each step.

We also engage in discussions and seek input from the universities. Of course, if all universities achieve high standards, then perhaps there is no need for standards. We must set higher thresholds to gradually improve the quality.

What sanctions will be imposed for universities that do not meet the standards?

There will be sanctions for universities that do not meet the standards, but the specific sanctions are not immediately determined in this circular. They may be included in other documents, such as Government decrees.

The higher education standards comprise six criteria with 24 specific indicators and 29 sub-indicators, so we need to consider which criteria and sub-indicators the university does not meet and the reasons for it.

For example, if a university admits too many students, they will have to reduce the intake for the following year to meet the criterion for the student-to-faculty ratio. If a public university operates inefficiently for several years, leading to high-risk levels in financial or enrollment indicators, and the cause is not a lack of investment from the governing body, then we will have to consider reorganisation and restructuring.

How does the ministry ensure that the data is reliable, especially when it comes to data provided by universities, such as student satisfaction or the employment rate of graduates?

The standards must be built on reliable data that can be monitored by the ministry, society, and the universities themselves.

Currently, the ministry has completed the Higher Education Management Information System (HEMIS), and universities have connected and updated data on new enrolments, students in attendance, and graduates annually, as well as faculty members, infrastructure, and facilities. These are the primary data used to calculate the indicators, with control mechanisms in place to ensure universities update them fully and accurately.

Other data, such as the employment rate of graduates and student satisfaction, will be reported by universities based on annual student surveys. However, the ministry will also have mechanisms to cross-check through sample surveys.

Currently, the ministry is collaborating with the Vietnam Social Security to link graduate data with workplace information. In the future, objective information about the employment status of graduates in each field and each training institution will be provided.

The current draft specifies that the indicators apply to both the entire university and that some indicators apply to each element. Some characteristics for different fields and majors such as land area requirements, building area, and faculty-to-student ratio are incorporated as adjustment factors in the formula for calculating the indicators.

Specific requirements and unique characteristics of each field or major such as practical facility requirements for health disciplines or teacher training programmes that are not covered by this standard will be defined in the standards for each field or group of training programmes.

In this way, the higher education standards, together with the programme-specific standards, will form a unified system that meets common requirements for each university while also addressing specific needs and characteristics of different fields and training programmes.  VNS
A NANG  Osaka Prefecture in Japan has signed a comprehensive agreement on human resources supply and internship programmes in the nursing industry with a Nang Citys ong A University, offering job opportunities in Osaka for Vietnamese students from central Viet Nam.

The agreement will facilitate Vietnamese students from the a Nang-based universitys nursing faculty working and studying in the healthcare sector in Osaka from 2024.

Vietnamese students will be joining practical job and Japanese language courses from nine months to one year in preparation for working at hospitals and nursing centres in Japan or Viet Nam after graduation at the university.

Yoshida Shinji, director of the welfare department of Osaka Prefecture, said the internship programme would not only fill up the human resources shortage in the nursing industry in Japan, but would also benefit Viet Nam in the future.

Japan has been facing a low birth-giving rate and an increase in its ageing population recently. This results in a high demand for nursing manpower at elderly welfare centres in Japan. I expect that Vietnamese students from a Nang Citys ong A University will attain skills, techniques and knowledge during their studies in Osaka  where there is a high-tech nursing centre  and serve as high-quality human resources at home, he said at the virtual agreement signing ceremony.

He said Osaka would be strengthening the co-operation with the university in the coming years.

Osaka was the first locality in Japan to host students from central Viet Nam for one-year at-work training and internship courses at hospitals after the COVID-19 pandemic in 2022.

Rector of ong A University Nguyen Thi Anh ao said the nursing manpower supply agreement was a strategic plan in education and supplying high-quality manpower for the Japanese market as part of the universitys 100-partner network over past decades.

She said co-operation in education and practical job programmes with more than 100 Japanese partners had helped create a high-quality labour force for both Japan and Viet Nam in various industries.

Japanese partners support Vietnamese students in language and job training as well as culture and basic skills through internship programmes. We expect to send from 300 to 500 students to Japan annually, targeting to increase that to 700 to 1,000 students in 2025.

More than 300 students from the a Nang-based private university have been working for Japanese companies in hospitality, nursery and shopping centres in Japan since 2017.

Eight cities in Japan, including Fukuoka, Yokohama, Maebashi, Chiba, Shizuoka, Tokyo, Tottori and Nagasaki, and 82 Japanese businesses have inked co-operation deals for student human resources training and employment from central Viet Nam.

The first Japanese language studies and culture research faculty, established at ong A university in 2020, has taught 2,000 students Japanese. The university is the only education centre in central Viet Nam supplying human resources for the Japanese labour market.

ong A University, the first private university in the central region of Viet Nam, officially opened a representative office in Tokyo, Japan, to boost high-quality human resources and education cooperation between Viet Nam and Japan.  VNS
HA NOI  Viet Nam has welcomed more than 7.8 million international visitors within the first eight months of 2023, touching distance from the 8 million target set for the whole year.

According to the data from the General Statistics Office, most tourists are from Asia with 5.9 million visiting from January through to August  six times more than the same period last year.

Other tourists visited from Europe (919,400 visitors), the Americas (625,400 visitors), Oceania (276,300 visitors) and Africa (17,500 visitors).

In August alone, the country has served 1.2 million foreign arrivals, an increase of 17.2 per cent over the previous month and 2.5 times higher than the same period last year.

Among international visitors coming to Viet Nam, around 6.9 million visitors arrived by air, accounting for 87.6 per cent, followed by road (11.6 per cent) and sea routes (0.8 per cent).

The total revenue from accommodation and dining services is estimated at VN436.3trillion (US$18.04 billion) for the past eight months. Meanwhile, the revenue from travelling services is estimated at VN22.4trillion (US$926.576), an increase of 47 per cent compared to the same period last year.

Earlier this year, Viet Nam set a target of welcoming 8 million international visitors for the whole of 2023. The recent influx of foreign arrivals has seen encouraging results for the efforts of the entire tourism industry in recent months.

However, the number still only equals 69.2 per cent of visitors over the same period in 2019, before the COVID-19 pandemic broke out.

The recent changes in visa procedures, including the extension of tourist e-visa from 30 to 90 days and the extension of visa-free entry from 15 to 45 days from August 15, created favourable conditions for businesses to attract more international visitors and build up new service opportunities.

Along with benefits from the visa policy, Viet Nam should also focus on developing innovative tourism products to bolster its competitiveness, according to experts.

Strategic tourism promotion and advertising initiatives should be targeted towards key markets. Ensuring security and safety in famous destinations will also create favourable environments for tourists when travelling across Viet Nam.

The training procedures for tourism staff need more focus to improve the service quality. The digital transformation and application of information technology within tourism activities must also be pursued cohesively.  VNS
HA NOI - The rapid spread of African Swine Fever (ASF) has severely affected pork supply, prices, and the livelihoods of farmers across Viet Nam since it was first detected in the country in February 2019.

Recognising the vital role of pork biosecurity, Viet Nam has implemented several proactive measures to facilitate innovations within the industry.

According to a report from the National Agricultural Promotion Centre, 99.83 per cent of the pig farming industry in Viet Nam consists of small-scale farms with less than 100 pigs.

Overall, these small-scale farms do not meet the requirements for biological safety, despite comprehensive regulations and efforts to enhance awareness through traditional education activities.

As a result, there is a significant risk to biological safety, which hampers the development of the pig farming industry in the country.

The first cases of ASF were announced in the northern provinces of Hung Yen and Thai Binh by the Department of Animal Health under the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development on February 19, 2019.

By December 11, 2019, the disease had spread to 8,553 communes in 667 districts across all 63 provinces and cities, resulting in the culling of nearly 5.95 million pigs with a total weight of over 340,000 tonnes, accounting for approximately nine per cent of the country's total pig weight.

By the end of 2019, the total number of pigs nationwide that had died or been culled due to ASF had reached six million, accounting for 20 per cent of the total pig population.

In May 2022, the National Institute of Animal Science (NIAS) organised a workshop discussing the needs and challenges regarding pork biosafety in the context of the outbreak of ASF. The workshop concluded that the greatest biological safety risks were faced by farmers with fewer than 20 breeding sows.

NIAS also conducted the international scientific project Innovation Alliance for Biosecurity in Pig Farming in Viet Nam, sponsored and coordinated by the Aus4Innovation Programme (A4I) in Australia. Within the project, NIAS staff coordinated with the Hoa Binh Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Sub-Department, the Bac Giang Sub-Department of Animal Husbandry and Animal Health, and the Ha Nam Sub-Department of Animal Husbandry and Animal Health to survey and investigate the situation of pig raising in the three districts of Tan Lac, Binh Luc, and Yen The in 2022 and early 2023.

Preliminary results revealed that local farmers were more concerned about biosecurity in pig farming; however, there were still several issues in the implementation of biosecurity practices, such as inconsistent sanitation and disinfection of vehicles and equipment, inadequate control of people and vehicles entering and exiting the farms, use of excess feed for pigs, and inadequate management of exotic animals. In addition, pig raising households did not properly update biosafety pig raising processes, leading to the uncontrolled spread of the pig diseases, which consequently resulted in severe economic losses as well as a lack of pork supply.

On the morning of August 29, 2023, the NIAS, in collaboration with the Aus4Innovation Programme (A4I)  Australia, held a workshop on "Innovation in Pork Biosecurity in Viet Nam".

Participating in the conference were representatives of the Australian Embassy in Vietnam, Aus4Innovation Programme (A4I), Department of Science, Technology and Environment, Department of Livestock Production, Department of Animal Health, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, FAO, ILRI, National Centre for Agricultural Extension, National Institute of Animal Science, Vietnam Academy of Agriculture, along with other relevant department, small-scale pig farmers and a number of companies in the pig industry in the north of Viet Nam.

Experts, scientists and veterinarians were able to meet, present reports, and share knowledge and experience on biosafety measures in pig farming.

They also recommended the establishment of the Innovation Alliance in biosafety pig production in Viet Nam, which will create a platform for innovations in addressing the challenges of the pig farming industry, promoting biosafety in animal husbandry, and enhancing the industry's capacity against diseases, natural disasters, and climate change. VNS
HCM CITY  Throughout its 25 years of development, the Viet Nam Coast Guard (VCG) has always been the core force in protecting national security, and in maintaining security, order and safety of the seas and islands of the country.

At a ceremony to mark 25 years of the traditional day of VCG (August 28, 1998 - August 28, 2023) held in Ha Noi on August 26, VCG received the second-class Victory Medal in recognition of its outstanding achievements in the fight against drug-related crime.

Senior Lieutenant General Nguyen Tan Cuong, Chief of the General Staff of the Vietnam People's Army and Deputy Minister of National Defence, attended the ceremony and highly appreciated the role, contributions, achievements and victories of VCG during the past 25 years.

He emphasised that VCG has done well patrolling, inspecting, controlling and enforcing the law at sea.

Its law enforcement efforts have significantly contributed to success in the fight against drug-related crime at sea, and safeguarding sovereignty over the countrys seas and islands, he said.

"Building an elite and modern coast guard force is necessary to meet all requirements," he added.

In the past, the coast guard force prevented thousands of foreign vessels from violating Viet Nams waters, detected hundreds of trade fraud cases, and busted many major drug rings.

The force has also provided support for fishermen who were in distress at sea, and strengthened the propaganda, dissemination and education of the law at sea for fishermen and other residents.

It has set up bilateral and multilateral ties, and hotlines with law enforcement forces of 20 countries in the region and the world, helping create an image of Viet Nam as a responsible nation in preserving maritime security, order and safety, and coping with non-traditional security challenges.

The units under VCG across the country are always proud of the title of Hero of the People's Armed Forces in the renewal period, as well as the VCGs tradition of being resolute and courageous, surmounting difficulties, ensuring unity and coordination, and strictly maintaining law.

Many individuals and units of the force have been awarded with numerous medals and rewards for their outstanding achievements.

The ong Nai Province-based Coast Guard Reconnaissance Unit No. 2 under the VCGs command is an outstanding example of the VCG contributions.

The unit is tasked with monitoring the sea from Cu Lao Xanh in the central coastal province of Binh inh to Ha Tien City in the Cuu Long (Mekong) province of Kien Giang, including the Truong Sa archipelago.

It provides information for the VCG Party Committee and Command to give advice to the Party and the State to formulate and implement policies and laws to safeguard the countrys sovereignty, sovereign rights and jurisdictions, and to ensure the observance of the countrys laws and international laws and agreements to which Viet Nam is a signatory.

It is also assigned to directly detect and combat violations of law, such as national security crimes, smuggling, and trade fraud in the sea of its responsibility.

Senior Lieutenant Colonel Phan Nhan Hau, Party Committee Secretary of the Coast Guard Reconnaissance Unit No. 2, said the unit always proactively addressed the situation, kept a close eye on the waters it is assigned to manage, and promptly detected many cases of sea law violations.

Building a strong people-based security policy at sea is key to helping the coast guard officers and law enforcement forces at sea to promptly have valuable information sources to fight against crimes, and protect security and safety at sea, he said.

Troops and officers of the Reconnaissance No. 2, Coast Guard Region No. 3 and the maritime law enforcement forces have contributed to ensure law enforcement and protection of national security, order and safety at sea.

In the peak period to attack and suppress criminals during the 2022 Tet (Lunar New Year) holiday alone, the unit coordinated with functional forces to arrest eight suspects committing 10 violations at sea, then handing them over to the coast guard regions No. 3 and No. 4 for further investigations.

For example, more than 60,000 litres of smuggled diesel were seized from a ship 309 nautical miles south-east of the southern province of Ba Ria-Vung Tau.

The Reconnaissance Unit No. 2 on June 25 stopped fishing vessel TG 93698 TS registered in the Cuu Long (Mekong) Delta province of Tien Giang and found the oil of unknown origin.

The vessel captain, Huynh Tan Kiet, 42, of the central province of Quang Ngai, and three crew members were on board.

Kiet failed to furnish documents proving the origin of the oil, and none of the crew had the qualifications or certification required to be a sailor.

The coast guard force brought the vessel ashore and handed the case over to the Coast Guard Region No. 3 in Vung Tau city for further investigation.

In another case, the coat guard seized 50,000 litres of diesel of unknown origin from wooden ship KG-095945 TS registered in the Mekong Delta province of Kien Giang.

Nguyen Minh Thanh, 41, the ships captain, of Kien Giang Province, and four crew members were on board. He failed to furnish documents proving the origin of the oil.

The case was handed over to the Coast Guard Region No. 4 in Kien Giang Province for further investigation.

Effectiveness

The units of VCG across the country have effectively implemented a number of programmes such as the VCG accompanies fishermen, the VCG with the ethnic minority and religious people, the VCG joins hands in cleaning the environment, the VCG joins hands with the poor - no one will be left behind.

Colonel Le Van Tu, secretary of the Party Committee and Political Commissar of the Coast Guard Command Region No.3, said the effective implementation of these programmes is raising public awareness of the Partys guidelines, States policies, and VCGs mass mobilisation movement.

The Coast Guard Region No. 3 Command has made important contributions in building a solid people-based security policy at sea.

Mobilising the full strength of the entire political system and the Vietnamese people in protecting security and safety at sea contributes to firmly defend the countrys sea and islands sovereignty, he said.

The programmes and movements not only helped people better understand the role of VCG, but also allowed the coast guard officers to gain more experience needed to advance their tasks, he added.

Senior Lieutenant Colonel Pham Manh Ngan, leader of the Coast Guard Reconnaissance Unit No. 2, also agreed that the support of local fishermen in coastal provinces played an important role in the fight.

They help the coast guard force to promptly grasp information, and detect and handle many cases of sea law violations, he said.

Previously, a cultural programme marking the anniversary, was organised by the Reconnaissance Unit No. 2 on August 3.

The programme took place at the units campus in Phu Huu Commune in ong Nai Provinces Nhon Trach District, and attracted 17 performances in various forms from eight units based in the province.

It also aimed to strengthen the solidarity and close relationship between the local State units.  VNS
Canada ranks 14th out of the countries and territories investing in Vietnam, with nearly $5 billion pumped in. How would you assess the attractiveness of Vietnams investment environment moving forward?

Shawn Steil, Canadian Ambassador to Vietnam

The thing to remember about Canadian investors compared to some others is theyre quite conservative. For example, two of our biggest investors in Vietnam are insurance and financial companies. And through all of this turmoil in banking markets, insurance markets, and stock exchanges, Canada has fared better than most countries because we have a strong fiscal responsibility and a disciplined approach to financing.

Theres a good and bad side to that, but Canadian investors tend to be quite conservative. That means when they look for opportunities in Vietnam, they will consider what the risks are, and how they are going to manage the balance between potential benefits and the risks. For them, in particular, the regulatory environment, stability, transparency, and reliability is critical.

Canada has some of the worlds largest investment funds. They are looking at law, infrastructure, and they need to know that those investments will be stable, that the risk is being shared between governments and the private sector. So we are working with Vietnam, for example, on public-private partnerships and infrastructure to kind of hone the regulatory environment to ensure that balance of risk is attractive to investors.

Vietnam wants to transition to renewable energy and greener funding. How does Canada plan to provide support and collaborate with Vietnam in this area?

Being an economy that is growing fast, Vietnams people have to be conscious about the environment and about ensuring those economic benefits get to everyone.

On climate change and clean energy, Vietnam is one of the countries most vulnerable in the world to climate change. Canada has shifted even some of our development assistance from basic human needs to supporting the clean energy transition. Canada is a proud partner of the Just Energy Transition Partnership in Vietnam and is contributing resources technical expertise and know how to support Vietnams transition to more clean energy.

Through that partnership, were elevating our assistance to support Vietnam in not only increasing renewable energy production, but also looking at increasing the capacity to store energy, which is important for renewables and to improve transmission. Because once using renewables, you need a smart grid to take large volumes of electricity at certain times.

One way we are already working is through our development assistance. We are already providing technical assistance for helping to manage smart coastal communities; for example, how to sustain forests in Highland areas to support economic benefits, while preserving the forests. This is a key issue everywhere in the world. So we have already started to move in these ways and support Vietnams clean transition and environmental protection.

In addition, Canada was a founding member of the Global Plastics Action Partnership. As an ambassador, I sit on the leadership board for Vietnams plastics plan. We are providing support technical expertise for a long-term plan in Vietnam on how to reduce plastics.

Plastics end up in the oceans, they all do. Vietnam depends on its oceans for fisheries, for offshore wind energy, and for tourism, and so reducing plastic in the environment is key. And Canada is a vital partner for Vietnam in supporting solutions, technological aspects, and policy to help reduce plastics.

Finally, we are particularly excited about supporting carbon pricing in Vietnam, and the Vietnamese government has a plan to pilot carbon pricing by 2025 and have a national carbon market by 2028. Canada is one of Vietnams closest partners in supporting options to pursue this goal.

How have exports from Vietnam to Canada been boosted through trade deals?

Since the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership came into force here in Vietnam in 2018, exports to Canada have grown really rapidly. In fact, out of our total bilateral trade, about 93 per cent is Vietnamese exports to Canada. Vietnamese products, seafood, fruits, furniture, shoes, clothing, and electronics are finding an enormous market in Canada.

Although all economies are having a little bit of difficulty right now, Canadians are still spending. We are continuing to purchase really high-quality Vietnamese products and people are excited to have the opportunity to eat Vietnamese shrimp, cashew nuts, and to wear Vietnamese-made clothes.

So we expect that trade, given low tariff rates per preferred treatment, is going to increase, and Vietnamese products will continue to find an excellent market in Canada.

The solutions for stronger Canadian moves in Vietnam Vietnam and Canada are going through a heyday in bilateral ties, and currently celebrating a 5-year comprehensive partnership. Canadian Ambassador to Vietnam Shawn Perry Steil talked to VIRs Thanh Tung about how the cooperation will continue to flourish.
Kaspersky's data on cyber attacks in Southeast Asia in 2022. (Photo: headtopics.com)

Kuala Lumpur - Finance and healthcare are the top two sectors experiencing cyber attacks in Malaysia this year despite growing resilience and awareness among financial institutions, said Kaspersky Southeast Asia general manager Yeo Siang Tiong.



Speaking at Kaspersky Cyber Security Weekends 2023 held in Bali, Indonesia, Yeo said that the same trend was also observed in other ASEAN countries this year.



He explained that the financial sector is where the money is while the government and healthcare sectors contain a lot of data, including personal data which have a lot of value for which cyber attackers can gain benefit.

Although facing the most attacks, the Malaysias financial sector has seen some improvement in cyber resilience after Bank Negara instructed banks to follow the risk management in technology framework.



In addressing the rising threat and risk of cyber attacks from the government perspective, Yeo said there was a need for the government to address the issue from the regulation and policy standpoints.



He said Kaspersky is working very closely and having collaboration with the National Cyber Security Agency (NACSA) and Cybersecurity Malaysia (CSM) from the government side for sharing information with them. Then, the agencies will get early signals from Kaspersky if the cyber security firm see a cyber attacks is happening.



The Malaysian government is looking at the possibilities of making some changes to the two agencies involved in cybersecurity.



Yeo said that said organisations need to learn and do their due diligence by exercising a fair share process to protect their own environment and from the consumers perspective, awareness is the most effective way.



With the digital economy growing rapidly across the ASEAN region at an expected growth rate of 20% year-on-year, more data will be used by the industry and it requires more protection on its information technology (IT) and operational technology (OT).

Kaspersky announced that the company detects an average of 400,000 new malicious attacks on a daily basis and has been responding to the detection by using the latest technology.



Kaspersky highlighted that AI has emerged as a powerful tool in the field of cybersecurity and beyond with the arrival of ChatGPT in November 2022 triggering debates and conversations on AI.



It showed the tangible effects of this neural network technology and revealed AIs potential to disrupt industries globally.
How have recent declines in exports and orders impacted European businesses and their plans in Vietnam?

Gabor Fluit, chairman of the European Chamber of Commerce in Vietnam

The impact of these declines on European businesses in Vietnam is noticeable and has contributed to a decrease in overall confidence. This is evident in the latest Business Confidence Index from the European Chamber of Commerce in Vietnam (EuroCham), which recorded a score of 43  a figure that is even lower than during the 2012 banking crisis.

Export declines have reduced revenue for European companies, prompting lay-offs and operational reductions. Many have also had difficulty meeting customer expectations. Faced with these challenges, European businesses have reoriented their strategies to improve operational efficiency, expand into new markets, and make use of digital tools such as e-commerce to maintain sales.

As for the relocation of operations from China, our Business Confidence Index (BCI) for Q2 reveals a cautious attitude. According to the index, only 3 per cent of businesses are considering relocation from China to Vietnam, and only 2 per cent are actively planning to do so.

However, I anticipate this trend rebounding as the global economy stabilises, much like the period before the current downturn. Meanwhile, we are seeing considerable interest from European companies without an Asian presence to select ASEAN countries as their regional base instead of China.

What sectors show resilience, and which face an uphill battle?

While many different sectors show both resilience and growth potential, there are a few specific bright spots. As previously mentioned, Vietnams growing middle class has led to a significant increase in consumer spending. We can expect this trend to continue for decades to come. European investors are making the most of this trend by investing in food and beverages, retail, fashion, and services, for example.

With Vietnams skilled workforce and competitive production costs, European investors are also attracted to high-tech manufacturing sectors such as electronics, precision engineering, and advanced materials.

Still, many sectors remain untapped, and more must be done to make them reach their full potential. Renewable energy, like offshore wind, has attracted a lot of interest from European investors. However, recent power disruptions demonstrate Vietnams challenging energy landscape. Although the government is committed to renewable energy, the transition has been somewhat slower than what is needed for transformative change.

Vietnams tourism sector has shown encouraging signs of recovery. Recent visa reforms have played a pivotal role in this progress. Despite positive steps, surpassing pre-pandemic tourism levels requires more.

EuroCham is actively advocating for visa exemptions for all EU member states. This change could significantly impact tourism and boost foreign direct investment by allowing investors to visit, conduct due diligence, and meet potential partners.

Vietnam has been making efforts to improve the business climate to increase its attraction. What are the main barriers to EU businesses?

European businesses face a number of obstacles that require attention. Two particular points, however, have been problematic.

Firstly, administrative procedures continue to pose many operational challenges. The process for obtaining permits, licences, and approvals requires considerable effort, resulting in lengthy processing times and increased costs. In particular, our members and the broader foreign business community have faced many challenges as a result of Decree No.152/2020/ND-CP, which governs foreign work visas and permits.

Our members have raised this issue time and time again. I have personally spoken to quite a few investors who are unable to commit substantial amounts of capital to Vietnam because it is too difficult to bring in overseas experts to supervise projects and train local employees.

Although a draft amendment to Decree 152 was released in early August, we still have big concerns about the proposed amendments effectiveness in addressing key issues such as simplifying how companies report the need for foreign workers, ambiguities about the division of power between local and national authorities, and difficulties in temporarily relocating foreign employees between provinces.

Another critical issue is Vietnams infrastructure. Considering the fact that it is a developing country, many parts of Vietnam have insufficient transportation, energy, water supply, and IT infrastructure. This creates significant challenges for businesses and has a negative impact on the Vietnamese quality of life.

Businesses still face challenges in fully capitalising on the EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA). What are the main reasons for this?

With the BCI, we can learn more about the challenges that our members face when utilising the EVFTA.

A significant hurdle lies in administrative procedures. For instance, EuroCham members face complex and time-consuming customs clearance processes when importing or exporting goods in Vietnam. Collaboration between European and Vietnamese businesses certainly makes navigating these complexities easier. Furthermore, we will continue to work with the government to simplify administrative challenges through partnership and dialogue.

There is also a significant challenge related to the lack of awareness of the EVFTA and its advantages. As a result, businesses cannot capitalise on their opportunities. For businesses to benefit effectively from the EVFTA, governments and businesses must collaborate to deliver training on its specifics.

Additionally, by collaborating with businesses who are already familiar with the agreement, businesses can learn from the insights and experiences of others. It is critical to share knowledge, communicate, and pool resources as much as possible.

What factors are driving Vietnams growth prospects?

As a result of its participation in global trade agreements, Vietnam has opened its doors even wider to a diversity of global trading partners. Vietnams connection to the European Unions 500 million-strong market, for example, has been strengthened significantly by the EVFTA. The effect has been the emergence of many new business and investment opportunities for both sides.

The growth of Vietnams middle class, projected to reach 95 million by 2030, is increasing consumption across various sectors like travel, food and beverages, education, services, and so on.

The increase in disposable income and access to consumer goods and services has created a large market for businesses to tap into. Vietnams commitment to sustainability is another driver. Eco-conscious innovators and foreign investors are very much attracted to Vietnams growing demand for green technologies, renewable energy, and circular economy initiatives.

With that, our Green Economy Forum on November 2 in Hanoi will bring together public and private sector stakeholders to discuss trends in the green economy, share insights on policy, and network with experts.
Petronas Twin Tower in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia (Photo source: thesundaily.my)

Kuala Lumpur - Malaysia is expected to receive more investments going forward, supported by investors confidence in the Madani Economy framework and from offshoots from existing investments, said Malaysia Semiconductor Industry Association (MSIA).



MSIA President Datuk Seri Wong Siew Hai said the investment-friendly approach practised by the government will attract foreign companies to enter the Malaysian market.



Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim is working very hard to attract investments from all over the world, including China, the US and even CEO of Teslas Elon Musk.



Besides, there are other investment announcements from European semiconductor firms. Investors will view these approved investments positively.



Wong Siew Hai said US companies have expanded their footprint in Malaysia such as Intel Corp and there are new companies coming in. TSo, investors are confident about Malaysia but the country wants more quality investments.



US Ambassador to Malaysia Brian McFeeters said US companies made investment pledges totalling 100 billion RM (21.5 billion USD) in various sectors over the last 18 months.



He said these involve significant investments in areas where the US wants to strengthen its presence, namely electronics and semiconductor sectors, as well as the data centre segment which is a big growth area.



Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz had previously said that Malaysia would prioritise improving the ease of doing business in the country to lure quality investments.



According to him, the government will continue to streamline processes and monitor and track these investment processes closely and in real time through a project management and delivery unit within the ministry.



Meanwhile, Bank Muamalat Malaysia Bhd chief economist and social finance head Mohd Afzanizam Abdul Rashid opined that Malaysia has always portrayed itself as non-partisan and has been accommodative to bilateral ties.



According to him, threats of deglobalisation are seen to be taking root which can be counterproductive if allowed. Therefore, forging economic alliances with various (countries) should signify Malaysias commitment to remain open to foreign direct investments (FDIs).



More importantly, Mohd Afzanizam Abdul Rashid, said investments by foreign companies could be a catalyst for infrastructure development as well as transfers of technology.

Malaysia eyes wave energy for electricity generation When one mentions renewable energy, the mind often jumps to familiar sources like solar energy, hydroelectric dams, and wind power. However, Malaysia is seeking measures to turn wave energy for electricity generation.

Malaysia blocks live cattle imports from Australia after skin disease scare Malaysia has temporarily suspended live cattle and buffalo imports from Australia, the Australian government said, days after Indonesia paused some imports after lumpy skin disease (LSD) was detected in a small number of cattle after arrival.
There were 16 films made by young filmmaking teams that were honoured at the ceremony, six of which were awarded the top prizes. At the end of the year, the two winning teams will participate in the online Kids Witness News Global Summit, competing with top young filmmakers from around the world.

Kids Witness News (KWN) is a totally free filmmaking drive initiated globally by Panasonic for students from the age of 10 to 18. Now in its 16th year in Vietnam, it has become one of the most eagerly awaited annual activities of the summer for many students.

This year, 16 films were produced by more than 80 young filmmakers, with the most impressive scripts being selected from the hundreds of applications. The entrants came not only from Hanoi but from many other provinces and cities nationwide.

The initiative has extended its reach to more local schools under the Panasonic Sustainable Schools framework, which is a corporate social responsibility initiative from Panasonic Vietnam that helps the next generation to realise the vision of wellness and sustainability in society.

Young filmmaking teams were able to learn from renowned Vietnamese directors and actors, from the initial concept through to the final artwork, scripts, and filming techniques. The young teams also benefitted from Panasonics professional equipment and post-production facilities.

Additionally, they participated in outdoor activities and field trips that helped to strengthen their communication, problem-solving, and observation skills.

KWN 2023 has been selected as one of the activities to celebrate the historic 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Japan and Vietnam. Along with the main filming activities, KWN students were offered cultural exchange opportunities to allow them to better understand Japanese culture.

Oka Hiroyuki, director of Panasonic Vietnam stated, We would like to bring KWN to more students in Vietnam, which is why we carry it out as part of the Panasonic Sustainable Schools network. I was truly impressed by the way the stories were told, showing great appreciation for the environment, family, and friends. Through the film making journey, we hope the next generation will develop a more profound understanding of what matters the most to them and the surrounding society.

Besides participating in the film-making course, 16 young teams enjoyed watching Children of the Mist and listening to advice from the director Ha Le Diem on how young Vietnamese filmmakers can make internationally recognised movies.

They also practised their acting skills through many exciting interactive games in a memorable session with the famous Japanese director, Tsuyoshi Sugiyama. In another activity, the teams visited the Vietnam National Television production studio to observe the importance of effective teamwork in a professional studio.

During the cultural exchange event, conducted under the collaboration between Panasonic and the Japan Foundation, the children enjoyed interesting activities including Shodo  Japanese calligraphy  and the traditional Kendama game.

The film entitled Mirror by The Flammable team from Pascal secondary school was honoured with first prize in the 13-18-year-old category. It is a story about family violence suffered by a child, who then decided not to make the same mistakes as his father when he became the man of his own family.

The first prize for 10-12-year-old students was won by The silent life of Goldy, produced by the Strange Ohio team. It depicts a quiet schoolgirl just starting secondary level who overcame her anxiety to become more sociable and meet new friends.

The films were critiqued, and the honours awarded, by a well-respected jury board of highly acclaimed Vietnamese and Japanese directors.

Peoples Artist Lan Huong (Bong), a member of the jury board said, "Through all the films, I highly appreciate the fact that children today speak up about their perspectives on many social issues with sincere and emotional expressions. With the experience they gained participating in this programme, I believe I have seen the future generation of talented filmmakers, directors, and actors."

The two winning teams will be offered the opportunity to showcase their movies with other teams around the world at the KWN Global Summit online event this October.

'Panasonic for a Green Vietnam' marks 10-year journey On April 15, Panasonic Vietnam held the Panasonic Eco relay Tree planting programme and donated 13,500 trees at Xuan Lien Natural Reserve and neighbouring areas, marking the 10th year of the project.

Panasonic brings light to over 300 disadvantaged households in Quang Nam On August 9, Panasonic implemented its Solar Lantern Donation programme for the fourth time in Vietnam to grant 330 solar lanterns in Nam Tra My district, Quang Nam province.
Vietnams rice exports have been on the rise constantly from the start of the year. In June alone, the rice export price averaged $552 per tonne, up 9 per cent compared to early in the year, setting a new record.

Despite the price surge, the business outcome in the second quarter and the first six months saw a decline for many rice businesses, with only a few seeing high profits.

Trung An High-tech Farming JSC eyed a staggering growth in its revenue in Q2, yet saw losses for the first time since entering the bourse in 2019.

The company posted $68.1 million in revenue in Q2, up 111 per cent on-year. However, due to a spike in the cost of sales which touched $65.3 million, up 129 per cent and 40 per cent jump in financial costs, primarily due to soaring interest payments, Trung An recorded $337,550 in losses, compared to gaining $1 million in profit a year ago.

In H1, despite posting a 46 per cent jump in its revenue to reach $106 million, Trung An raked in merely $25,300 in post-tax profit, down 99 per cent compared to one year ago.

The company is set to reach $160 million in revenue and $2.1 million in post-tax profit for 2023.

Similarly, An Giang Agriculture and Foods Import-Export JSC (Afiex) saw a 44 per cent jump in its Q2 revenue to reach $24.7 million, yet post-tax profit registered a 70 per cent dip, falling to just $210,970.

In H1, the companys revenue came to $38.9 million, up 47 per cent, while net profit dropped 82 per cent on-year, falling to $417,720.

Similarly, An Giang Import Export JSC (Angimex) raked in $6.87 million in revenue in Q2, down 88 per cent on-year, and lost $1.4 million in post-tax profit during the period.

This is the fourth consecutive quarter that Angimex eyed losses.

In H1 generally, the company counted $2.8 million in losses, much higher compared to loss figure approximating $261,600 one year ago.

Meanwhile, Vietnam National Seed Group (Vinaseed), one of the first sci-tech enterprises in Vietnams seed industry, posted around $35.2 million in revenue in H1, down 7 per cent on-year, and registering $3.92 million in post-tax profit, down 24 per cent on-year.

In H1 Vinaseed fulfilled 38 per cent of full-year revenue, and 32 per cent of full-year profit targets.

In its latest report, Tien Phong Securities JSC (TPS) SAID that Vietnams rice export eyed factors, such as deficit in the global food supply, and lasting drought casting devastation on rice growing areas in many countries, which were leading to an increase in rice exports

TPS appreciates the rice export prospects to China as after nearly three years of closing the door, this country has removed stringent COVID-19 requirements, helping to facilitate goods moving over the border.

Besides traditional markets, Vietnamese rice is seeing widening opportunities for export to other potential markets, such as the UK.

In 2022, Vietnam posted more than $3.7 million from exporting nearly 3,400 tonnes of rice to the UK, up 24.5 per cent in volume and 34 per cent in value on-year.

Vietnam, however, just accounts for 0.6 per cent of the UKs rice import market, placing 14th among countries exporting rice to the UK.

Estimates show that by the end of July, Vietnam exported 4.83 million tonnes of rice valued at $2.58 billion, up 18.7 per cent in volume and 29.6 per cent in value compared to one year ago.

Exporters complain as cost for containers skyrockets The cost to hire shipping containers has skyrocketed to nearly ten times its pre-pandemic level, according to export businesses and trade agencies.

Cost concerns reach record high Conducted between February 14 and March 1, the latest edition of the Global Economic Conditions Survey (GECS) from the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) and the Institute of Management Accountants (IMA) reveals worries about operating costs, with warnings of future economic shocks and increased risks.

Broken rice ranks second among top 100 most tasty rice dishes in Asia by TasteAtlas Vietnams broken rice (locally known as com tam) was chosen the second place among the top 100 most tasty rice dishes in Asia by TasteAtlas, the home of local food, traditional restaurants, and authentic recipes, in March this year.
Why is the HKEX an optimal choice for Southeast Asian companies?

Christina Bao, co-head of Sales and Marketing at HKEX

Over the past three decades, the HKEX has gained prominence by welcoming a multitude of businesses, from global giants to emerging stars. As of now, the exchange boasts a vast portfolio with over 150 international companies and an impressive array of more than 2,000 Chinese firms. Such diversity ensures a robust ecosystem, promoting liquidity and offering a range of choices to potential listees.

This is not just about numbers. Financially, Hong Kong has solidified its reputation as a leader in initial public offering (IPO) fundraising, consistently securing a high global rank in the past decade.

The HKEX stands as Asias premier international IPO and biotech pre-revenue fundraising hub, with 65 per cent of its 2022 capital coming from new economy and biotech firms and about 100 ASEAN companies listed.

The strategic position of Hong Kong serves as a regional linchpin. Companies from Southeast Asia will find that the investor base here is finely attuned to the nuances of Asian business models and their growth prospects, providing a more informed and receptive audience.

How is the HKEXs engagement with Vietnamese companies shaping up?

Our engagement trajectory in Vietnam is on an upward curve, even though specifics on deals are still under wraps. What weve distinctly conveyed to our prospects is the strategic leverage they stand to gain with a Hong Kong listing.

Listing here not only offers Vietnamese companies a platform with both Asian and global prominence but also provides an avenue for Vietnamese investors aiming to diversify internationally.

Its clear that Vietnam is on a path of progressive economic development, and as they grapple with aligning local practices to global standards, our role is to offer the strategic advantages of Hong Kongs market. This isnt just about aligning with global benchmarks; its also about facilitating Vietnamese investors who, with time, might look outward.

Vietnam has showcased rapid GDP growth and plays a significant role in the global supply chain. The country is also transitioning from manufacturing to technology and innovation sectors. Both local and overseas capital markets will be vital in supporting this growth. Leveraging overseas markets can help Vietnamese firms optimise their capital structure, achieve cost efficiencies, and align with global practices.

The journey towards being recognised on a global stage involves consistent efforts in policymaking and. However, patience is key, as substantial economic transformations dont occur overnight.

Given Vietnams strict listing policies for companies with consecutive losses, how does the HKEX framework cater to innovative but not yet profitable companies?

Hong Kongs future-forward vision aligns well with sectors like biotech and healthcare. Our unique Chapter 18A, introduced around five years ago, addresses the specific needs of pre-revenue biotech firms.

We acknowledge the capital-intensive nature of drug development, and through this initiative, we have assisted almost 60 biotech firms in raising over $12.75 billion. This support not only propels research and development but also drives potential breakthroughs beneficial to global society. Our strategies have empowered over 110 healthcare companies in their fundraising endeavours.

In March, we launched a new listing chapter for Specialist Technology Companies, reaffirming our commitment to new economy businesses globally, including in ASEAN.

Comparatively, while Vietnam poses challenges for companies reporting losses over consecutive years, our approach in Hong Kong strikes a balance. We ensure that companies listing under Chapter 18A in the biotech sector meet certain criteria, such as having a drug ready for Phase 2 post a successful Phase 1 trial. This ensures we facilitate only those with tangible potential.

Our goal is not just about listings, but about building a vibrant marketplace that nurtures sectors across the spectrum, from traditional consumer goods to industries like e-commerce and AI. With this vision, we remain steadfast in championing growth while diligently upholding investor protection.

Could you shed some light on the post-IPO performance of ASEAN companies listed in Hong Kong?

While numerous ASEAN companies have chosen to list in Hong Kong, each company embarks on its own unique journey. Some flourish, while others inevitably face hurdles  a natural phenomenon in any market. An efficient market does not always ensure that every company gets the same valuation. Its determined by the companys merit, potential, and performance.

As for the ASEANs potential, I am forward-looking. A short while ago, the term unicorn was unheard of in this area, but now they are multiplying at an astonishing rate. The evolving landscape, marked burgeoning GDP, a youthful demographic, tech innovations, and an adaptable community, captures our attention. Achieving true greatness entails pioneering novel routes rather than merely echoing past achievements.
Ban Gioc fall in Cao Bang (Photo: VNA)

Cao Bang - The tours of Ban Gioc - Detian fall, which flows through Vietnams northern border province of Cao Bang and Chinas Guangxi, will be piloted from September 15, 2023 to September 14, 2024.

During the period, tourists from both countries need to pre-register in groups of up to 20 people each.



The duration of each group's stop at the opposite side should not exceed 5 hours, and overnight stays are prohibited. Tourists are required to use their passports or entry/exit permits to enter the scenic areas on both sides.



There will be no entrance fee for visitors from Vietnam entering the Chinese side. The Vietnamese side must purchase insurance for tourists before entering the Chinese scenic area.



Tourists from China entering the Vietnamese side are required to purchase tickets for 70,000 VND (2.9 USD) per person per visit, inclusive of insurance and exclusive of other service fees.



The move demonstrates the determination of both countries to build a borderline of peace, friendship, cooperation and development, toward establishing eco-friendly cross-border tourism models.

Ban Gioc waterfall festival kicks off in Cao Bang The 2019 Ban Gioc waterfall festival opened in the northern border province of Cao Bang on October 5.

Autumn sparkles at the Ban Gioc Waterfall Ban Gioc Waterfall in Dam Thuy commune, Trung Khanh district is a pearl of Cao Bang provinces tourism. After heavy downpours, in the autumn, the waterfall sparkles in the sunshine and its crystal streams flow down the mountain, a picturesque and astounding scenery.
During the 17th Vietnam-Singapore Ministerial Meeting on Economic Connectivity on August 27 in Hanoi, Nguyen Chi Dung, Vietnams Minister of Planning and Investment revealed, "Several regions in Vietnam are keenly exploring the potential of exporting renewable energy to Singapore."

The energy sector, particularly in terms of renewables, has emerged as a new and significant pillar of cooperation, which is now included in the Framework Agreement on Vietnam-Singapore economic ties.

Dung mentioned that during the 16th iteration of the conference, preliminary discussions were held regarding the possibility of Vietnam selling electricity from its renewable energy projects to Singapore.

"Currently, numerous localities in Vietnam have expressed interest in exporting renewable energy to Singapore," the minister added.

To implement this vision, the Ministry of Planning and Investment will propose the formation of a dedicated task force.

The ministry will review and refine the legal regulations to ensure smooth and compliant renewable energy exports to Singapore, in line with the associated Vietnamese laws including the Electricity Law, the Maritime Law, and the National Power Development Plan VIII.

Additionally, Minister Dung informed that both the Vietnamese and Singaporean governments have recently approved the enhancement of the Framework Agreement on Economic Connectivity between the two nations. This move aims to better respond to both regional and global challenges while capitalising on the emerging opportunities.

Upon its revision, the framework will be centred around five main pillars, including connectivity, sustainable development, infrastructure, digital technology, and innovation, covering a range of sectors such as education, finance, IT and telecommunications, tourism, investment, trade and services, and transportation.

Vietnam faces up to 2,000MW power shortfall Vietnam anticipates an energy shortfall of up to 2,000MW between 2024 and 2025, as the soaring electricity demand outpaces additions to capacity.

Hydropower must be utilised to develop energy sources Success in the development of renewable energy sources will not be sustainable if the role of hydropower is ignored.
"Vietnam has risen to the top three largest textile and garment exporting countries in the world, with a growth rate of nearly 20 per cent over the past decade. Therefore, green and sustainable production are important factors for Vietnam's textile and garment sector," said Vu Ba Phu, director of the Vietnam Trade Promotion Agency (VIETRADE), at a press conference to introduce the Vietnam International Trade Fair for Apparel, Textiles and Textile Technologies (VIATT) on August 28.

VIATT will make its debut from February 28 to March 1, 2024, at the Saigon Exhibition and Convention Centre, Ho Chi Minh City. The event aims to draw in over 500 exhibitors and around 35,000 visitors to an 18,000 square metre exhibition space.

As an international trade fair, VIATT 2024 will be a meeting place for suppliers and buyers of all categories to find sources of supply and maximise the potential of this market. By connecting textile companies across Asia and Europe, VIATT 2024 will play an important role in shaping the future of Vietnam's garments and textiles industry, according to Phu.

He said that representatives of both Messe Frankfurt and VIETRADE believed that the trade fair would bring opportunities for the entire textile value chain.

This is the leading event for the garments and textiles sector in Southeast Asia, being held in Ho Chi Minh City for the first time. The event is just in time for businesses to source supplies for the spring.

"Serving as a supplementary trade fair to our existing events in China, VIATT will effectively extend our market reach into Southeast Asia. Weve designed it to reinforce our global Texpertise Network, spanning the entire textile value chain. The network, which links over half a million textile professionals globally and organises more than 50 international textile trade fairs across 11 different countries, will lend its full support to the fair," said Wendy Wen, managing director of Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd. "In line with this commitment, we will harness our more than 30 years of experience organizing intertextile exhibitions in China and extend them to the fast-growing textile sector in Vietnam."

Amidst a gradual recovery in global demand, Vietnam's garments and textiles export turnover reached more than $3.2 billion in July, up 6.8 per cent compared to the previous month.

In the first seven months of the year, Vietnam's garments and textiles earnings stood at more than $19.04 billion, down 14.5 per cent over the same period in 2022, according to the General Department of Customs.

Textile apparel sector increasingly going green More producers in the textile apparel sector are adopting measures for green and sustainable production to meet increasingly stringent requirements from trading partners, as well as create extra income sources.

Vietnam prepares for EUs sustainable textiles overhaul As the European Union attempts to transition to a more sustainable and circular economy, exporting nations will confront new laws and criteria to access the EU market, notably when it comes to garments and textiles.
CINCINNATI  Aissata Sall was scrolling through WhatsApp in May when she first learned about the new route to the United States. For Ibrahima Sow, the discovery came on TikTok a few weeks later.

By the time their paths crossed at the tidy one-story brick house in Cincinnati, they had encountered hundreds of other Mauritanians, nearly all of them following a new path surging in popularity among younger migrants from the West African nation, thanks largely to social media.

Four months ago, it just went crazy, said Oumar Ball, who arrived in Cincinnati from Mauritania in 1997 and recently opened his home to Sow, Sall and more than a dozen other new migrants. My phone hasnt stopped ringing.

The spike in migration was made possible by the discovery this year of a new route through Nicaragua, where relaxed entry requirements allow Mauritanians and a handful of other foreign nationals to purchase a low-cost visa without proof of onward travel.

As word of the entry point spreads, travel agencies and paid influencers have taken to TikTok to promote the trip, selling packages of flights that leave from Mauritania, then connect through Turkey, Colombia and El Salvador, and wind up in Managua, Nicaragua. From there, the migrants, along with asylum seekers from other nations, are whisked north by bus with the help of smugglers.

The American dream is still available, promises a video on TikTok, one of dozens of similar posts from French-speaking guides that help Mauritanians make the trip. Dont put off tomorrow what you can do today.

The influx of Mauritanians has surprised officials in the U.S. It came without a triggering event  such as a natural disaster, coup or sudden economic collapse  suggesting the growing power of social media to reshape migration patterns: From March to June, more than 8,500 Mauritanians arrived in the country by crossing the border illegally from Mexico, up from just 1,000 in the four months prior, according to U.S. Customs and Border Protection data.

The new arrivals likely now outnumber the estimated 8,000 foreign-born Mauritanians previously living in the U.S., about half of whom are in Ohio. Many arrived in the 1990s as refugees after the Arab-led military government began expelling Black citizens.

Some who left say they're again fleeing state violence directed against Black Mauritanians. Racial tensions have increased since the May death of a young Black man, Oumar Diop, in police custody, with the government moving aggressively to crush protests and disconnect the countrys mobile internet.

The nation was one of the last to criminalize slavery, and the practice is widely believed to persist in parts of the country. Several Mauritanians said police targeted them because of anti-slavery activism.

Life is very difficult, especially for the Black Mauritanian population, said Sow, 38, who described himself as an activist in the country. The authorities became threatening and repressive.

It became difficult to fight, he said, and his life was threatened. So he fled via the new route to Cincinnati, where hed heard a thriving Mauritanian community was helping new arrivals get on their feet.

Previously, applying for asylum in the U.S. meant flying to Brazil, then risking a dangerous trek through the dense jungle of the Darien Gap. The new route through Nicaragua bypasses that link.

The trip can cost $8,000 to $10,000, a hefty sum that some families manage by selling land or livestock.

The Nicaragua route also allows migrants to avoid the boat voyages to Europe that have killed tens of thousands in the past decade. Flying to Nicaragua is legal, and the rest of the trip is on land.

The new passage presents a rare opportunity to a generation yearning for a better life, said Bakary Tandia, a Mauritanian activist living in New York: No matter what is your burning desire to come, if there is no route, you will not even think about it. The reality is: People are seeing a window of opportunity, thats why they are rushing.

Ibrahim Dia, a 38-year-old who owns a cleaning company in the Mauritanian city of Nouadhibou, said his brother left the country in June, following the Nicaragua trip he'd seen countless others take in recent months. But he was detained at the border and remains jailed at a Texas detention site, Dia said.

Many Mauritanians enter the U.S. in Yuma, Arizona. Some are dropped off on a Mexican highway by smugglers for a roughly two-hour walk through a knee-deep river and flat desert shrub and rocks. They surrender to Border Patrol agents in Yuma waiting under stadium lights where a wall built during Donald Trumps presidency abruptly ends.

Those who can enter are often put in touch with a close-knit group of American and Mauritanian-born advocates who connect them to housing and help pay for flights across the U.S. Some head to Philadelphia, Denver, Dallas or New York, where an overwhelmed shelter system has left migrants  many from Mauritania and elsewhere in Africa  sleeping on the sidewalk

Ohio remains the most common destination. Several thousands have found their way to Cincinnati, settling in with the small but vibrant existing community.

Sall, the one-time nurse, said she wants to go back to school. She's taken on an unofficial role as cook in the house she shares with others new to Ohio. She hopes to stay in Cincinnati with the community that's embraced her and many others.

The Mauritanian people gave me a big welcome, she said. And they gave me hope.
Lots welcome

Home lots are needed in Waco and the 151-lot development plan adjacent to northern Cameron Park delivers. First, by doubling the lot density of any area adjacent to the development by using near-minimum lot sizes allowed by city code to maximize the quantity of lots possible, the developer maximized much-needed home quantity build potential for Waco.

Second, as an engineer who talked to concerned property owners adjacent to the development and then met with an experienced, skilled city water runoff engineer, I was comforted to see how the developer addressed the difficult sloped topography of the area and water runoff change potential by significantly re-contouring the development, providing the minimum green space and water collection ponds needed for runoff flow rate restriction.

Third, with adjacent property owners very concerned about the lack of parking within the earlier PUD development plan and the potential for parking overflow to existing properties, the developer wisely abandoned the PUD plan and created a standard R-1B development with significantly increased parking potential.

The developer should be commended for providing the maximum lot quantity possible for Waco, while still meeting minimum water flow rate restriction and lot size on this irregular, multi-sloped site, and for the safety-conscious street design which inhibits potential speeding drivers.

Steve OConnor, Waco

Dad deserving

Being raised in Waco, and as local homeowners and taxpayers, we were pleased to learn from a July 19 article, Community offers up Hispanic names, that the South Waco community has been meeting with Turner Brothers Development to discuss naming streets in the Floyd Casey Stadium redevelopment site after some of its local community leaders. Were honored that Sustaita was among one of the suggested names, along with several other worthy Latino leaders who have positively impacted the Waco community.

Our father, Manuel Sustaita, grew up in South Waco and dedicated his life to bettering the community and quality of life through various projects. Among them, he was co-founder of the first Central Texas bilingual newspaper El Tiempo, co-founder of the Cen-Tex Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, and he played an instrumental role in saving the Waco Veterans Affairs Medical Center from closing. He was also one of the early pioneers of the Texas Association of Mexican American Chambers of Commerce (TAMACC), which continues today as the leading Hispanic business organization in Texas.

Perhaps the biggest legacy that our father left for his beloved hometown was the iconic Waco Vietnam Veterans Memorial, which he fundraised for ten years to build and inaugurate in 2004.

While we no longer reside in Waco, we still have homes there and continue to support the causes that our father cared so deeply about through the Waco Foundations Manuel Sustaita Memorial Fund, which is being used to grant college scholarships to students who will be or are already attending McLennan Community College.

We hope the city of Waco will honor our father and other local leaders who have helped to inspire a new generation of leadership for the community.

Angela Sustaita-Ruiz,

Miami, Fla.

Melissa Sustaita Acosta, Austin
Trump and a long list of possible co-conspirators, including fake electors, appear to be on course to be indicted for their illegal attempts to overturn the 2020 Presidential, gubernatorial, and attorney general election results.

This latest prosecutorial threat to Trump and his minions isn't the last threat to his and his allies. He faces another Jack Smith investigation and grand Jury in Washington D.C. and in the State of Michigan. There are also the possibility he and many of the same allies will face trial in Pennsylvania, Nevada, Wisconsin and New Mexico.

Trump and His Co-Conspirators Facing Arizona Criminal Prosecution Arizona Attorney General Chris Mays could indict Donald J. Trump for a 5th criminal prosecution.

The Arizonia case could be as strong or stronger than any of the four indictments Trump finds himself currently indicted. Trump and a long list of possible co-conspirators, including fake electors, appear to be on course to be indicted for their illegal attempts to overturn the 2020 Presidential, gubernatorial, and attorney general election.

This latest prosecutorial threat to Trump and his minions isn't the last threat to his and his allies. He faces another Jack Smith investigation and grand Jury in Washington D.C. and in the State of Michigan. This would be Donald J. Trump's 5th criminal prosecution. There are also the possibility he and many of the same allies will face trial in Pennsylvania, Nevada, Wisconsin, and New Mexico. So with Michigan and another indictment in Washngton D.C. Trump faces as many as 10 criminal trials.

The Arizona case could be as strong or stronger than any of the four indictments Trump finds himself currently indicted. Trump and a long list of possible co-conspirators, including fake electors, appear to be on course to be indicted for their illegal attempts to overturn the 2020 Presidential, gubernatorial, and attorney general election.
As aviation enthusiasts, our greatest desire is to see history live on in tangible ways. To be able to see, touch, and experience history in a tangible fashion is the ultimate way in which we can reflect on the past and engage future generations. REC Watches, in conjunction with Hunter Fighter Collection, is providing a unique and enduring way in which the aviation community can own a rare piece of aviation history; while simultaneously supporting the restoration of an airframe crucial to the enduring stories that create WWII history. After the wreckage of the Supermarine Spitfire Mk1a X4009 was excavated and acquired by Ross and Ann-Maree Pay of Vintage Fighter Restorations and subsequently donated in 2020 to Hunger Fighter Collection for restoration,, pieces of the wreckage of the X4009 that are no longer able to be utilized in the restoration process, have been reserved for use by REC in creating watches that not only showcase the beauty of the aircraft and the era, but also support the restoration of the airframe.

This historic airframe was originally issued to Paterson Pat Clarence Hughes, RAF Squadron No. 234 on August 18, 1940. Though Pat Hughes was lost at the same time as X4009, his resume during his RAF pilot service is something of a history lesson on its how. Advocating for close-in tactics, he shot down at least 14 aircraft during the Battle of Britain in the summer of 1940 and scored the squadrons first victories during this well-known battle for air supremacy. When Pat Hughess parachute failed to open when X4009 went down on 7 September 1940, it is believed he was the sole pilot to operate out of this airframe. Combined with the belief that Hughes in this aircraft likely shot down German fighter pilot Oberleutnant Franz von Werra, the famous One That Got Away, that makes this potentially the most significant restoration of a Spitfire to date. You can read the latest updates about this restoration at THIS LINK.

With timeless structure and the real remnants of the fuselage from the X4009, each watch creates a silhouette that honors the history of the Spitfire and captures the spirit of the era. But more than that, it creates a meaningful way in which an individual can support the restoration of X4009. The purchase of an X4009 Midnight Blue watch from REC provides the individual the opportunity to allow the story of the Spitfire, the story of X4009, and the story of Pat Hughes to live on for generations, as a portion of each sale goes directly to fund her restoration. If youre an avid reader of Vintage Aviation News, this provides you the opportunity to be a partner in safeguarding the heritage of aviation. You can own your very own piece of history HERE, with pre-orders expected to deliver in September of 2023.

Each example of the X4009 watch features a seconds sub-dial created from the Spitfires fuselage skin. Furthermore, REC has created three different, color-themed variants of the timepiece dedicated to X4009, and will manufacture just 844 examples in total. The timepiece is available for pre-order HERE, with deliveries expected to begin in September 2023.
WATERLOO  What was almost nonexistent just more than a decade ago in Black Hawk County has reared its head again. The county has a higher rate of syphilis than the state average, a disease spread through sex, in the state.

In 2022, there were 51 cases of syphilis. That may not seem like a lot but Rebecca Smith, the disease prevention specialist for Black Hawk County Public Health, said its a significant increase because just five years ago there were 15 cases. Since 2013, the first recent year with trackable cases, there has been a 467% increase.

Kristen Larter is a womens health nurse practitioner in the family planning clinic at Allen Womens Health. She saw the first signs of the increase a few years ago.

I never had anyone positive for syphilis, she said. But in the last three years, weve seen multiple cases each year.

One of the reasons she believes the sexually transmitted infection is on the rise is because people arent thinking about it.

People just arent aware about syphilis, that its coming back and something they have to be tested for, she said. I dont think people know where to get tested or a lot of people dont have symptoms.

A person can get syphilis by direct contact with a syphilis sore during vaginal, anal or oral sex.

The first stage, called the primary stage, comes with ulcers or sores in the genital area or mouth. The bumps usually last a few weeks and can disappear if they are not treated. If left untreated, the secondary stage can include skin rash, fevers, swollen lymph nodes, muscle aches and headaches.

In the third and fourth stages, a person could have no symptoms but after a while, the infection can travel to the brain and start affecting it, resulting in symptoms as severe as mental deterioration, blindness and hearing loss, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

If someone is pregnant with a child and has syphilis, the infection can spread to the baby through the blood via the placenta and umbilical cord. This is called congenital syphilis.

Having syphilis can lead to a smaller baby, as well as make it more likely for the baby to be born too early or stillborn. It can deform the babys bones and cause ailments like anemia, jaundice, blindness and deafness. Children with congenital syphilis live with it for the rest of their lives because it is in their DNA, according to Smith.

Although less common in Black Hawk County, congenital syphilis has very severe implications for a child. Smith said last year there were zero congenital cases but two women were diagnosed with the infection and were treated before the birth.

She said so far this year, there have been some congenital cases but she doesnt have that number yet.

There is no concrete answer for why syphilis is becoming more common. The increasing number of cases isnt confined to Black Hawk County  more people are being diagnosed in the state and across the county.

Both Larter and Smith have their own speculation on why this is happening.

One reason, Larter said, could be the decrease in STI testing during the COVID-19 pandemic. She thinks if people didnt have symptoms  which can occur in many cases  people didnt come in for testing and then unknowingly passed it to other people.

She and Smith both think with the idea that syphilis is uncommon, people arent aware that they even need to get tested. Smith said syphilis was more rampant from the 1940s to 1990s, according to CDC data. The CDC also states syphilis reached a historic low in 2000 and 2001.

There was more testing going on or there was more awareness of syphilis back then, Smith said, stating that increased testing results in more cases.

She also believes that in the U.S., as well as Black Hawk County, people arent educated on the matter. Providers may not be educating their patients on syphilis or having conversations with them, she suggested.

Smith has seen higher rates of syphilis within the Black and Latino communities. One reason for this, she said, is that those individuals dont always go to a health care provider  especially if they are not born in the U.S. and dont feel comfortable.

In Black Hawk Countys 2022 data, men had 78% of the syphilis cases. With women making up less than one-fourth of the cases, she said that the public health department is seeing an increase of cases in women.

As for age ranges, it is across the board with cases mostly affecting people aged 20 to 54. The age range with the most cases in the county is 30 to 34 years old.

Earlier this year, the public health department sent out a letter to providers to be more proactive in testing for syphilis in pregnant people. Usually, people get tested for syphilis as well as HIV during their first prenatal appointment.

A lot of time, providers dont do additional syphilis or HIV testing, Smith said. Weve been seeing people exposing themselves (to those diseases) between prenatal appointments.

The letter asks providers to do testing at the 28-week appointment, or the beginning of the third trimester, as well as when the baby is delivered.

The department is also teaching pregnant people and other sexually active patients about testing recommendations. They are doing more sexual health assessments, such as asking how many partners they have, their gender, their sexual orientation, and their past STI history.

Smith said her department is going into the field, giving presentations to providers about syphilis and congenital syphilis, along with looking at their clinics procedures. In addition, they are hoping to do more outreach testing events.

At Larters clinic, providers offer blood tests to every patient they see. A general STI test, or routine test, as she called it, tests for chlamydia and gonorrhea and is done through urine collection or a vaginal swab. Syphilis, HIV and hepatitis can only be identified through a blood test.

Both Larter and Smith said when many people ask for a test, they are more often tested for chlamydia and gonorrhea.

Larter said patients wanting to do a blood test in her clinic have increased, with almost 50% of them asking for one.

Smith said sexually active people should be tested annually.

Everyone should be tested at least once for syphilis, she said. But with it being on the rise and there can be no symptoms with it, anyone having sex should be routinely tested every year  especially if they have new or multiple partners.

If someone tests positive for syphilis it can be cured. If theyve had syphilis for less than a year, a single shot of penicillin can do the trick. Those infected for longer may need additional doses, according to the Mayo Clinic. Other antibiotics could be used if someone is allergic to penicillin.

As for pregnant people, the only treatment is penicillin. If allergic, patients can undergo a desensitization process in order to take the medicine.

The best way to reduce the risk of syphilis is to use a condom but Larter said it could still be transmitted through skin-to-skin contact not covered by a condom. Regular screening should also be performed.

Although the clinic Larter works at is a womens health clinic, men can also be seen and receive tests.

Anyone can also be seen at Black Hawk County Public Health where free, confidential testing for chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, and HIV are offered.

CORRECTION: This story has been updated to reflect Black Hawk County does not have the highest rate in the state but that it is higher than the state average.

80% of pregnancy-related deaths are preventablehere's a closer look at maternal mortality in the US 80% of pregnancy-related deaths are preventablehere's a closer look at maternal mortality in the US Before the pandemic, the rate of pregnancy-related deaths approached 18 per 100,000 live births The overall national rate obscures significant racial disparities Causes of death demonstrate additional disparities
DES MOINES  During days of hot and humid weather across the state, Waterloo and Decorah reported Iowas highest temperature for the week on Aug. 23.

The 105 degrees Fahrenheit recorded at the Waterloo Municipal Airport on Aug. 23, the first day of claseses for many Cedar Valley schools, also broke the citys daily record for that date. According to a weather summary by State Climatologist Justin Glisan for the week ending Sunday, Waterloo began reporting observations in 1895 and the high on that day broke the previous daily record of 99 degrees set in 1948.

On average, the high temperature for the cities in Black Hawk and Winnishiek counties was 23 degrees above normal. Estherville in Emmet County reported the weeks low temperature of 49 degrees on Aug. 27, six degrees below normal.

Glisan said in the summary, released as part of the weekly crop and condition report, that Iowans experienced the warmest reporting period of the growing season as an expansive heat dome set up over the Midwest. Stations across the state observed triple-digit air temperatures and dewpoints in the upper 70s and low 80s, creating oppressive heat index values. The statewide average temperature was 80.0 degrees, 10.1 degrees above normal.

With precipitation well below normal throughout Iowa, farmers had 6.5 days suitable for fieldwork, according to the United State Department of Agricultures National Agricultural Statistics Service. The hot weather has since eased.

While seasonal conditions have returned after last weeks sweltering heat wave, several daily records were broken across the state as a result of the hot temperatures and high humidity, Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig said in a statement. Those seeking to bale hay, chop silage, plant cover crops or complete other farm work may find opportunities with the hot and dry conditions that are expected to continue into September, but our crops and pastures could certainly use some badly needed rain.

Unseasonably dry conditions persisted under the stable weather pattern with stations in west-central and eastern Iowa not receiving measurable rain totals. Weekly rain totals ranged from no accumulation at many stations to 1.78 inches in Lake Park in Dickinson County. The statewide weekly average precipitation was 0.18 inch; the normal is 0.91 inch.

Field activities included cutting and baling hay as well as harvesting oats. Persistent dry weather has put continued stress on crops, especially soybeans with multiple reports of disease entering fields.

Topsoil moisture condition rated 23% very short, 45% short, 31% adequate and 1% surplus. Subsoil moisture condition rated 28% very short, 45% short, 26% adequate and 1% surplus.

Corn in or beyond the dough stage reached 96% this week, eight days ahead of last year and 11 days ahead of the five-year average. Sixty-two percent of the corn crop was dented or beyond, five days ahead of last year and four days ahead of normal. Six percent of the states corn crop has reached maturity. Corn condition declined six percentage points to 54% good to excellent.

Soybeans setting pods reached 97%, one week ahead of last year and nine days ahead of the average. Soybeans turning color was 15% this week, two days ahead of normal. Reports of soybeans dropping their leaves were received this week. Soybean condition dropped six percentage points to 53% good to excellent. Oats harvested for grain is nearly complete.

The states third cutting of alfalfa hay reached 90% complete, 18 days ahead of last year and 17 days ahead of the average. Pasture condition rated 23% good to excellent. The hot and humid weather severely stressed livestock across the state, with several reports of death loss.

Getting dairy from farm to table is a complex process  and farmers are adapting to get it there A different way to farm: Using agritourism to bolster dairy operations Getting dairy from farm cow to your fridge is more complex than you think Technology is reinventing dairy production  and its helping farmers keep pace
WATERLOO  The Waterloo Center for the Arts is looking for artists to showcase and sell their original works of art at this year's Holiday Arts Festival.

The event will be from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 11.

The festival is a juried art show and it is the premier indoor arts festival in the Cedar Valley that kicks off the holiday shopping season with a variety of artists from all around Iowa and beyond with various artistic styles and one-of-a-kind products. All mediums are welcome and early setup hours are available.

In order to maintain the highest level of quality and variety of original artwork, all artists must apply annually. The deadline is Sept. 15.

A jury fee is $15, a single booth fee is $100 and a double booth fee is $200.

Visit waterloocenterforthearts.org to apply.

10 shopping holidays other than Black Friday you need to know about 10 shopping holidays other than Black Friday you need to know about Martin Luther King Jr. long weekend Presidents Day Memorial Day State Sales Tax Holidays Amazon Prime Day Labor Day Target Deal Days Cyber Monday Green Monday Alibaba Singles' Day
WASHINGTON  A judge on Monday set a March 4 trial date for Donald Trump in the federal case in Washington charging the former president with trying to overturn the results of the 2020 election, rejecting a defense request to push back the case by years.

U.S. District Judge Tanya Chutkan rebuffed claims by Trump's attorneys that an April 2026 trial date was necessary to account for the volume of evidence they say they are reviewing and to prepare for what they contend is a novel and unprecedented prosecution.

She agreed to postpone the trial slightly beyond the January 2024 date proposed by special counsel Jack Smith's prosecution team.

"The public has a right to a prompt and efficient resolution of this matter," Chutkan said.

If the current date holds, it would represent a setback to Trump's efforts to push the case back until well after the 2024 presidential election, a contest in which he's the early front-runner for the Republican nomination.

The March 2024 date would also ensure a blockbuster trial in the nation's capital in the heat of the GOP presidential nominating calendar, forcing Trump to juggle campaign and courtroom appearances and coming the day before Super Tuesday  a crucial voting day when more than a dozen states will hold primaries and when the largest number of delegates are up for grabs.

"I want to note here that setting a trial date does not depend and should not depend on the defendant's personal or professional obligations," Chutkan said.

Chutkan has so far appeared not only cool to Trump's efforts to delay the case but also concerned by social media comments he's made outside court.

This month, she warned Trump's legal team that there were limits on what he can say publicly about evidence in the investigation. She also reiterated her intention Monday for Trump to be "treated with no more or less deference than any defendant would be treated."

The Washington case is one of four prosecutions Trump faces.

A March 4 trial would take place just weeks before a scheduled New York trial in a case charging him in connection with a hush money payment to a porn actress.

Meanwhile in Atlanta on Monday, where Trump and 18 others were charged with trying to overturn the 2020 election in Georgia, former White House chief of staff Mark Meadows argued to try to get the charges against him transferred from state court to federal court. U.S. District Judge Steve Jones did not immediately rule.

The judge said that he would try to rule as quickly as possible but that there isn't a lot of relative case law and he needs to give the matter thorough consideration. In the meantime, the case continues to progress in Fulton County Superior Court, and the judge said Meadows will have to honor a Sept. 6 arraignment if he hasn't ruled by then.

Trump and the 18 people indicted along with him in Georgia are scheduled to be arraigned next week on charges they participated in a wide-ranging illegal scheme to overturn the results of the 2020 election.

All 19 defendants, including former New York Mayor Rudy Giuliani and Meadows, are scheduled for arraignment on Sept. 6, when they may enter pleas as well, according to court records.

The setting of the trial date came despite strong objections from Trump lawyer John Lauro. He said defense lawyers received an enormous trove of records from Smith's team  a prosecutor put the total at more than 12 million pages and files  and that the case concerned novel legal issues that would require significant time to sort out.

"This is one of the most unique cases from a legal perspective ever brought in the history of the United States. Ever," Lauro said, calling it an "enormous, overwhelming task" to review such a "gargantuan" amount of evidence.

Prosecutor Molly Gaston countered that the public has an "exceedingly" strong interest in moving the case forward to trial and said that the crux of the evidence has long been well known to the defense. Trump, she noted, is accused of "attempting to overturn an election and disenfranchise millions."

"There is an incredibly strong public interest in a jury's full consideration of those claims in open court," Gaston said.

Trump, a Republican, was charged this month in a four-count indictment with scheming to undo his loss to Democrat Joe Biden in the 2020 election.

Smith's team brought a separate federal case accusing him of illegally retaining classified documents at his Palm Beach, Florida, property, Mar-a-Lago, and refusing to give them back. That case is currently set for trial next May 20.

Trump also faces state cases in New York and Georgia. Manhattan prosecutors charged him with falsifying business records in the connection with a hush money payment to the porn actress who has said she had an extramarital affair with Trump. Prosecutors in Fulton County, Georgia, charged Trump and the 18 others in a racketeering conspiracy aimed at undoing that state's 2020 election.

A spokesperson for New York's state court system, Lucian Chalfen, said Chutkan spoke Thursday with the judge in Trump's Manhattan criminal case, Juan Manuel Merchan, about their respective trials ahead. Chalfen said no decision has been made regarding postponing or rescheduling the Manhattan trial, which is to begin March 25.

Trump surrendered Thursday in the Georgia case, posing with a scowl for the first mug shot in American history of a former U.S. president. He claims the investigations of him are politically motivated and an attempt to damage his chances of winning back the White House.
West has no choice but to be made responsible for its actions against the world.  kKEETON

Now Medvedev on our future

Ukrainian criminals announced that they had agreed on any strikes on everything in Russia, for example, in the Crimea.

If this is true (and there is no reason to doubt now), then this is direct legally significant evidence of complicity of the West in the war against Russia on the side of the state of Stepan Bandera. A refined casus belli and for Russia the opportunity to act within the framework of jus ad bellum against everyone and everyone in the NATO countries.

Its sad, alas. The predictions of the Apocalypse are getting closer.

In those days people will seek death, but they will not find it; wish to die, but death will flee from them (Revelation 9:6).

We are remembered while we interfere with others (V.I. Lenin).

Like it or not, history is on our side. We will bury you. (N.S. Khrushchev).

Medvedev
Early in his ministry at St. Johns Lutheran Church in Prairie du Sac, Pastor Fred baptizes a baby. A few years later, that child is collecting Easter eggs on the church grounds. A few years later, now a teenager, he is confirmed by Pastor Fred. Soon after, the teenager is in high school and helps Pastor Fred with the Christmas services. More years go by and that baby, now engaged, asks Pastor Fred for guidance on the wedding. Pastor Fred has gotten to witness something extraordinary: a life that he has had the privilege of seeing grow.

Its a blessing to be able to stand with, sit with, be with people during their greatest joys and greatest pains, Pastor Fred Rilling, who is retiring from the church after 25 years, said. Its changed my life for the better, bearing witness to this circle of life.

Rillings life has been part of St. Johns Lutheran Church community and the Sauk Prairie community for decades. And, though hes retiring, with a special retirement celebration and worship on Sunday, hes staying in town, though with more visits to see his grandchildren down in Oregon.

This is my third stage, Rilling said. Its a new part of my life where I will wander in, filled with desire and eager to learn more.

Pastor Freds retirement party begins with a service at 9 a.m. Sunday at St. Johns Lutheran Church, located at 100 Oak St. After the service, in the fellowship hall, there will be appetizers and beverages, a program in celebration of Rilling, followed by a meal.

This is a wonderful place filled with faithful caring people, Rilling said. Its a place that has always been outward looking and a place where others can find a home.

Home, for Rilling growing up, was a transitory thing. His father was in the Marines so they moved around a lot. Every couple of years, theyd pull up stakes for something new. Theyd attend church everywhere they went, but roots were never made deep.

In middle school, young Rilling was living in Alexandria, Minnesota, and attended a Lutheran church there. It was a place I felt welcomed, he said. A place where I could find my own way. Get a sense of who I was. A home.

He went off to college thinking hed become a social studies teacher. Tentmakers, a nonprofit ministry in Chanhassen, Minnesota, approached him and asked if he might consider being a youth director at a church.

Rilling agreed. His career took him to Richfield, Minnesota; Rockford, Illinois; Dubuque, Iowa. He went to seminary in Dubuque. He interned at Dekorra Lutheran Church in Poynette before being called to Prairie du Sacs St. Johns Lutheran Church.

Hes been there 25 years, much to the delight of those who have worked with him. "I've had the privilege of working with Pastor Fred for 17 years," said fellow pastor Sally Williams. "He's walked alongside countless members of the church and the community through their darkest moments as well as their most joyful moments." She continued, "I've witnessed his deep commitment to the Gospel and to God's people."

Linda Hines is a longtime member of the church and the church's office coordinator. "He has encouraged us all to help one another by his teaching and by his example," she said.

Helping one another is something Rilling holds dear. This is more than a building, Rilling said. Our ministry goes well beyond these doors.

He mentions the churchs work building a hospital in Haiti, or the Good Neighbor Clinic, a 501(C)3 free clinic that used their space. He mentions a new teacher for the Sauk Prairie School District who is from Taiwan and will use the churchs parsonage as she settles in.

This church is engaged in exciting ministries and Im proud to have been a part of it, Rilling said. The circle of life keeps turning  for the church and for Rilling. Ive been loved here, cared for, encouraged. It has shaped me in ways that I not yet fully understand.

Photos: St. Wenceslaus near Waterloo St. Wenceslaus St. Wenceslaus St. Wenceslaus St. Wenceslaus St. Wenceslaus St. Wenceslaus St. Wenceslaus St. Wenceslaus St. Wenceslaus St. Wenceslaus St. Wenceslaus St. Wenceslaus St. Wenceslaus
I have to admit, I started out skeptical about the true feel-goodness of the Old Style returns to La Crosse story, which graced the front page of the State Journal earlier this month.

On its face, its a heart-touching homecoming, the return of a beer that became an emblem for a community, no less than Pabst or Miller with Milwaukee, Bud with St. Louis or Strohs with Detroit. And La Crosse had every right to be just as proud. Its no big city, but its homegrown beer  created by G. Heileman Brewing in 1900  was poured across the country and particularly caught on in Chicago.

By its peak in 1983, Heilemans La Crosse brewery was the biggest engine in a brewing empire that kicked out 17 million barrels of Old Style and many other beers, the fourth-largest brewer in the country behind only Anheuser-Busch, Miller and Stroh. It even created the sparkling water brand La Croix in 1981.

The price wars of the late 20th century were not kind to big-but-not-biggest brewers, and for years Heileman, aiming to become big enough to survive, scooped up many largely fungible regional brands that could no longer compete: Kingsbury, Lone Star, Blatz, Olympia, Rainier, National Bohemian. Eventually, though, that consolidation caught up with Heileman, too, and it was bought in bankruptcy by Stroh in 1996, and Stroh by Pabst and Miller in 1999.

The La Crosse brewery, which continued production as it changed hands, was saved by local investors in 1999 who rebranded it City Brewery and built it into a major national force in contract brewing. Despite making none of its own products, City is one of the largest brewing companies in the United States and owns other large breweries in Pennsylvania, Tennessee and California.

It is this jumble of acquisitions and divestitures and joint ventures and faceless contract brewing that made me wary of the sheen of nostalgia over Old Styles return to La Crosse. Things are not often as they seem in the world of big beer, and are hardly as simple as this story was presented.

Case in point: The precipitating event that brought Old Style back to La Crosse is a conflict between Pabst and Molson Coors, the owner of the Miller Brewing complex in Milwaukee and the primary contract brewer for Pabst since 1999. That arrangement, set to end in 2020, went out with a bang with a lawsuit settled in 2018. City Brewery was next up as Pabsts contract brewer, and Pabst acquired a minority stake in City in 2021.

Old Style appears to be the leading edge of Pabst contract changeover, and La Crosse will be the only City facility brewing Old Style. A majority of other Pabst brands will be made at City as well, a Pabst spokesperson told me, including Pabst Blue Ribbon, which will begin production in 2024.

The rep declined to address questions about the nature of Pabsts other contract brewers, but did say that while Pabst was expected to be one of Citys top customers, City would continue to have a large and diverse client base contracting for beer, wine, canned cocktails, seltzers and other beverages.

When the first Old Style made in La Crosse in 20-plus years hits tap lines in November, though, its hard to imagine that any of those complex machinations of the past 24 years will matter.

The citys pride in Old Style endures today; La Crosse Tribune reporter Saskia Hatvany noted the plethora of those big, old-school Old Style bar signs visible on the streets of the city, worn as they may be after decades of Wisconsin winters.

And Hatvanys story quoted a bowling alley owner who said he hadnt poured Old Style for several years, partly because kegs and cases of it had been more difficult to secure since production left town.

And this is why I cant be cynical about Pabsts celebration of the Old Style homecoming. La Crosse deserves Old Style, no matter how many courtroom battles and hostile takeovers and bankruptcies complicated the relationship between the city and the beer that generations of workers and loyal drinkers earned the right to call their own.

Places of the past: Heileman Brewery 1985: Beer spill 1957: Old Style newspaper advertisement 1970: World's Largest Six Pack 1982: New brewhouse 1969: Strike 1972: Brewery expansion 1999: City Brewery 1976: Tasting 1994: Heileman's free water 1977: 6 million barrels 1979: King Gambrinus 2000: City Brewery 1973: New York Stock Exchange 1984: Old Style L.A.
Marietta Reuter and her team take the wagon out into the pasture. Its a beautiful morning in Sauk Prairie to go hunting for cow chips. Theyre looking for sturdy ones. Ones that have some weight, but not too heavy. Dense ones. Ones that are 6 inches or so in diameter. A cow chip that has some air bubbles on top is good. Cow chips from grassy pastures are high in fiber and good for throwing great distances.

They gather up several hundred cow chips. Those that are too big, too brittle, too heavy, too small are left behind. Those are good, too, but for compost and giving nutrients back to the pasture; not for the glories of a cow chip throwing competition.

The annual Wisconsin State Cow Chip Throw and Festival is nearly here. It takes place Labor Day Weekend at Marion Park, at 145 First St. in Prairie du Sac.

This has always been huge, said Reuter, vice president of the Wisconsin State Cow Chip Throw and Festival Committee. Shes been involved in the event for decades. It helps our community in so many ways.

Thousands come to see hundreds of competitors throw cow chips as far as they possibly can.

Last year, the mens winner was Prairie du Sacs Robert Wyss. He threw a cow chip 192 feet, 8 inches, destroying the competition. Nathan Kirwon, of Verona, was a distant second with a 144 foot, 1-inch toss.

The 2022 womens competition was closer. Olivia Joyce beat out fellow Sauk City resident Liz Wood, with a throw of 130 feet, 6 inches. Wood came in second, tossing a turd 114 feet, 5 inches.

Top 10 competitors came from such places as Ames, Iowa; Homer Glen, Illinois; and Naperville, Illinois.

Last year I heard a kid saying it was better than Disney, Reuter said. I dont know about that, but its fun. Its a great and affordable family event.

There is much more to the weekend than chucking poop.

Festivities begin on Friday. West on 12, a Madison rock band plays at Marion Park from 5 to 9 p.m. The cow chip corporate throw starts at 5:30 p.m.

Saturday features volleyball tournaments, parades, childrens activities, and, of course, more cow chip throwing.

Other highlights include a 5K and 10K run at 8 a.m. Theres a cow chip breakfast (in name only; no cow chips are being served) at 8 a.m., too. Volleyball begins at 9 a.m., as does an arts and crafts fair. The fair runs until 5 p.m. and includes more than 125 exhibitors.

Childrens activities begin at 9 a.m. and run throughout the day. Activities include comedy acts, juggling, animal encounters and a kids pedal pull.

The Tournament of Chips Parade starts at noon. The parade route starts on the corner of Lincoln Avenue and First Street. At Grand Avenue it turns left to 13th Street. It turns left again, heading down Sycamore Street to its conclusion at Hemlock Street.

Music will be heard throughout the event at Marion Park on Saturday.

Tony Rocker will have an Elvis Presley tribute show from 9:30 a.m. to noon. VO5, a dance band from Madison, performs from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. Finally, High Mileage, a band from Viroqua that plays music from the 1970s, 80s, and 90s, performs from 5 to 9 p.m.

All that going on, Reuter knows, while people throw cow chips hoping for a vaunted trophy.

Its fun seeing the community coming together for this, she said.

Photos: The cows of the Wisconsin State Fair
Its still dark out. Its cold. Its early yet, and the child is waiting at the bus stop.

Just then, headlights pierce the gloom. The big yellow school bus comes to a stop, its lights flashing like a circus. A stop sign flares out from the side of the bus and the door opens.

At the wheel is Deadra Ramirez. Sitting behind her are her own two children, Felix and Hespera, both elementary school students.

I love building relationships with the kiddos, said Ramirez, who has worked for Lamers Bus Lines since 2018. I can help make their day better. I might be the first person they see every morning. I might be the last person they see every night. I absolutely love it.

One of nearly two dozen school bus drivers for the Baraboo School District, Ramirez is eager for company. Like elsewhere in Wisconsin and around the country, Baraboo is looking to hire more school bus drivers.

Increasingly, the shortage of bus drivers is creating challenges for school districts. Last week, for example, in Louisville, Kentucky, a combination of bus delays and technical malfunctions forced many schools to close temporarily. The school district in Philadelphia is offering parents who drive their children to and from school instead of using the school bus system $300 per month, or $150 for parents who can only opt out of the morning bus assignment.

In a survey done by HopSkipDrive, which offers school transportation services, 92% of education and transportation leaders nationwide reported their operations are constrained by the driver shortages in 2023, compared to 88% last year, and 78% in 2021. 40% of respondents said theyve had to reduce transportation services to deal with the shortages.

Theres a lot to recommend the job, some of those who do it say.

Every day I think about how much fun Ive had, said Paul Mennen, regional manager of Lamers Bus Lines, who has driven a bus some 30 years. To witness them maturing. To feel their joy. I always think about the good times Ive had.

Currently, there are 22 bus drivers serving the Baraboo School District. Those drivers transport approximately 900 students a day. The geographic range for a school bus goes as far north as Wisconsin Dells, as far south as Bluffview and Sauk Prairie, as far west as North Freedom and as far east at Portage.

The number of miles driven per year on the regular transportation routes is 233,722 miles. Add to that the special transportation routes and it climbs to over 300,000 miles.

I dont know what their home lives might be like, Ramirez said of her young charges. But I can tell their mood when they get on my bus. If I can do something to make them feel better, I will. Maybe all they need is a high five.

Driving a bus, Mennen said, is, the most excellent rewarding part-time job there is. You get the opportunity to be with children and learn all the best in them.

Bus drivers also are part of the community.

A bus driver is part of a childs educational life, he said. Im proud of that.

Bus drivers must be at least 21 years old, have had a valid drivers license for at least four years, and be subject to drug screenings and background checks. A commercial driver license is also required to operate a school bus. The schedule can be flexible to meet the needs of the driver.

Lamers will provide trainers and examiners for those interested in becoming a bus driver.

Starting pay for drivers is $21 an hour.

Ramirez estimates it would take a month or so from turning in an application to turning the ignition key on a school bus ready to transport children.

If you think you cant drive a big bus, you can, Ramirez said. If you think you cant pass the five required CDL tests, you can. All it takes is a little time and commitment.

First responders "rescue" Burlington students from (simulated) bus crash: in photos Car Nick Farvour Stretcher Car firefighters Drone Barb Rigden officer in car Students Fire Crew Babe and Steil
About two months after Democratic Gov. Tony Evers vetoed most of their tax cut proposal, legislative Republicans on Tuesday proposed a $2.9 billion plan to cut taxes for some earners and retirees.

Republicans also proposed a constitutional amendment that would prohibit the Assembly and Senate from passing a bill to increase Wisconsins sales tax, income tax or franchise tax unless such a proposal receives a two-thirds vote.

Much of the tax cut Republicans proposed Tuesday revolves around a measure Evers already vetoed. That plan, Assembly Bill 386, would reduce the 5.3% income tax rate covering individuals earning between $27,630 and $304,000 and married filers earning between $36,840 and $405,000 to 4.4%.

Republicans also proposed removing taxes on up to $100,000 that people age 67 or older receive from retirement income. That amount would be up to $150,000 for married couples who are both at least 67.

This is for the families, said Rep. Rachael Cabral-Guevara, R-Appleton. This is for the seniors. This is for the grandparents we have here in the state of Wisconsin.

Similar to the plan Evers vetoed in early July, the new proposal would collapse the current four income tax brackets into three. Unlike the earlier proposal, the latest Republican measure doesnt include a tax cut for the wealthiest Wisconsinites.

Were respecting the governor and his word to focus on the middle class, Rep. Mark Born, R-Beaver Dam, said. Thats exactly what were doing with both the third bracket and with the caps around this retirement plan. Its very middle-class focused.

Born said he hasnt discussed the latest proposal with Evers, who previously said he would negotiate with Republicans on taxes if they would consider his proposals, like spending more money on child care. Evers called Republicans into a special session in September to spend more money on child care and the University of Wisconsin System  something Republicans quickly dismissed.

The Legislature is not interested in spending more money, Born said. I know the governor wants to spend more money. The money thats left needs to be returned to the taxpayers.

Asked to comment about Republicans tax proposal, Evers spokesperson Britt Cudaback pointed to a State Budget Office memo stating that tax reductions exceeding $430 million in the next two years could jeopardize over $2 billion that Wisconsin received from the federal government during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Born said he wasnt concerned about the federal government potentially recouping that money.

Evers plan

When Evers vetoed most of Republicans proposed $3.5 billion tax cut, he said the plan would have been fiscally irresponsible going forward and would have required Wisconsin to cut funding for schools and health care.

The provisions Evers signed into law amounted to a $175 million total tax cut.

Evers budget included a GOP provision to lower the 3.54% rate covering individuals earning less than $13,810 per year or married filers earning less than about $18,400 to 3.5%. He also signed a measure lowering the 4.65% rate covering individuals making up to $27,630 and joint filers earning $36,840 to 4.4%.

Evers vetoed Republicans plan to reduce the 5.3% rate covering individuals earning up to $304,000 and married filers earning up to about $405,000 to 4.4%. He also rejected Republicans plan to reduce the 7.65% tax rate covering individuals earning more than $304,000 or married filers earning more than about $405,500 to 6.5%.

Under the tax plan Evers modified, those making between $40,000 and $50,000 will receive an average $36 tax cut.

Under the GOP plan presented Tuesday, taxpayers making between $40,000 and $50,000 would receive an additional $52 cut.

Under the current structure, taxpayers making between $60,000 and $70,000, around Wisconsins median household income of $67,000, will receive a $44 income tax cut. Under Republicans plan, they would receive an additional $205 cut.

Those making between $90,000 and $100,000 will receive a $48 cut under Evers plan, less than 10% of the $515 cut they would receive under Republicans plan.

Wisconsinites making between $200,000 and $250,000 will receive an average $51 cut per year under the plan Evers signed. Under Republicans tax plan, theyd save an additional $1,650.

Last resort

Separate from the tax cut proposal, Republicans introduced a measure Tuesday, Assembly Joint Resolution 66, to require legislative supermajorities to implement increases to state sales, income or franchise taxes.

Constitutional amendments require approval from two successive legislatures before appearing on the ballot. The governor cannot veto a constitutional amendment.

By doing this, were protecting our citizens from getting overtaxed, Rep. Amy Binfield, R-Sheboygan, said.

We want to make sure that each taxpayer sees that we are being conscious of the fact that were not just here to take their money and spend it for them, but rather it would be a last resort option.
MONROE COUNTY, MI  A Michigan man has agreed to surrender astir 150 exotic animals and to ne'er person them again aft he was accused of violating national laws, officials said.

The animals see ring-tailed lemurs, kinkajous, wallabies, porcupines, foxes, prairie dogs and crushed squirrels, according to a news release from nan U.S. Department of Justice.

Zachery Keeler, of Even Keel Exotics LLC, is accused of violating nan Endangered Species Act and Animal Welfare Act, nan merchandise said. To resoluteness nan complaint, he agreed to surrender his animals and to ne'er buy, waste aliases prosecute successful commerce related to animals regulated nether nan AWA.

Even Keel Exotics violated requirements for minimum attraction of nan animals successful its possession, said Assistant Attorney General Todd Kim of nan Justice Departments Environment and Natural Resources Division.

19-year-old arrested aft punching, biting Ann Arbor nightclub employee

Detroit man tackled by labor of Bay Citys Herman Hiss pleads to stealing gem ring

Man changeable successful nan cervix while trying to break into neighbors home, constabulary say

The title alleges that Keeler violated nan ESA by prematurely separating a babe ring-tailed lemur, an endangered species, from its mother to interact pinch nan public, nan merchandise said. He past tried to waste nan babe lemur for $3,500.

Keeler besides allegedly violated nan AWA by not providing cleanable water, and safe and sanitary conditions and accommodation for his animals, nan merchandise said. He besides did not supply entree to U.S. Department of Agriculture Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) inspectors who were checking connected nan wellbeing of nan animals.
Nicholas Anthony Donofrio of Connecticut was fatally changeable by a neighbour aft he tried to participate nan incorrect location connected his South Carolina street

A University of South Carolina fraternity student is dormant aft constabulary said a neighbour changeable him complete nan play erstwhile nan student tried to participate nan incorrect location connected his ain street.

The Richland County Coroners Office identified nan student arsenic 20-year-old Nicholas Anthony Donofrio, of Connecticut, nan Columbia Police Department reported.

The shooting happened successful a suburban vicinity successful southeast Columbia, nan authorities capital. The location is successful nan city's Rosewood vicinity conscionable eastbound of nan school's campus.

Jeffrey Stensland, a assemblage spokesperson, told USA TODAY Donofrio was a sophomore majoring successful nationalist health.

Jacksonville shooting: Florida shooter who killed 3 group identified

A burglary turned shooting

Just earlier 2 a.m. Saturday, constabulary reported, officers were sent to a location connected South Holly Street for a suspected location burglary.

As officers responded, constabulary said successful a news release, nan emergency telephone was upgraded to a "shots fired" call.

Officers recovered nan unfortunate connected nan beforehand structure dormant pinch a gunshot coiled to his precocious body, constabulary said.

Florida shooting updates: Sheriff specifications really achromatic man fatally changeable 3 Black group astatine Florida store; victims identified

'The incorrect home'

According to preliminary information, constabulary said Donofrio lived connected nan thoroughfare wherever nan shooting took spot and tried to participate nan incorrect location erstwhile he was shot.

Columbia constabulary spokesperson Jennifer Timmons said nan shooter was a man who lived successful nan home. She said constabulary were not releasing nan homeowner's sanction because he had not been charged successful nan lawsuit arsenic of Monday.

Law enforcement did not merchandise further specifications successful nan lawsuit connected Monday.

Police said they will activity pinch nan section prosecutors to find nan circumstances astir nan lawsuit and whether charges will beryllium filed.

'Heartbroken and successful disbelief'

Donofrio was a Phi Kappa Sigma member and Will Graves, president of nan school's chapter, told USA TODAY nan fraternity was successful mourning Monday and asked for privateness while its members grieve.

His parents, Lue and Diana Donofria, told section WTNH they are "heartbroken and successful disbelief" astir nan decease of their son, who graduated successful 2021 from Daniel Hand High School successful Madison, Connecticut.

The mates told nan outlet he attended nan University of New England, wherever he played hoops earlier transferring to USC.

https://twitter.com/davephillips41/status/1220903370686230529?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1220903370686230529%7Ctwgr%5Ebc4aa68b7e9222f3afdf19e09ab262a1efad0d57%7Ctwcon%5Es1_&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fheavy.com%2Fnews%2Fnicholas-anthony-donofrio%2F

Their child, nan position reported, was "loving, compassionate ... each nan traits you would want successful a son."

His parents could not instantly beryllium reached by USA TODAY.

'Providing resources'

The shooting came little than 72 hours aft nan university's autumn semester classes began Thursday.

Stensland said nan university's Student Affairs squad is "providing resources and support to those who whitethorn beryllium affected by this tragedy" and was reminding students that "help is ever disposable to them."

Natalie Neysa Alund is simply a elder newsman for USA TODAY. Reach her astatine [email protected] and travel her connected X, formerly Twitter, @nataliealund.
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The Global Offshore Wind Alliance (GOWA) has welcomed the State of Victoria as its first first sub-national member. According to GOWA this is a key moment for offshore development in the region, as Australia rapidly accelerates its plans for renewable energy deployment. Collaboration is fundamental to delivering on offshore wind potential, and the Alliance hopes this membership will be the first of many sub-national stakeholders who will play a critical role in the energy transition.



Australia represents the second-biggest offshore wind pipeline in the Asia-Pacific region, behind only China, with 50 GW planned. The State of Victoria has been clear with its ambitions targets of at least 2 GW by 2032, a total of 4 GW by 2035, and reaching 9 GW of offshore capacity by 2040  and the support and resources from other markets and key industry groups that GOWA can provide will be crucial to these goals being met.



This momentous announcement demonstrates that Australia's ambition to become an offshore wind powerhouse runs from the federal government through to state governments and beyond. Ambition must be allied to action, and the collaborative approach shown by Australias government in supporting this application can be a model for action elsewhere. Ben Backwell, CEO, GWEC



The Global Offshore Wind Alliance (GOWA) was founded by Denmark, IRENA, and GWEC with the ambition to create a global driving force for the uptake of offshore wind through political mobilisation and the creation of a global community of practice. The aim of GOWA is to contribute to achieving a total global offshore wind capacity of at least 380 GW by 2030, with 35 GW on average each year across the 2020s and a minimum of 70 GW each year from 2030.



GOWAs vision is a world in which offshore wind makes a significant contribution to the energy transition and the achievement of the sustainable development goals through large-scale renewable power generation, benefiting regions, countries and critical sectors such as industry and transportation.



Lily DAmbrosio, Victorian Minister for Energy and Resources said: Victorias application to join the Global Offshore Wind Alliance as the first sub-national member is testament to our world leading offshore wind targets and unmatched natural wind resources.



We look forward to working with our partner countries and organisations to support the acceleration and delivery of offshore wind energy in the APAC region and across the globe.



Pernille Dahler Kardel, Danish Ambassador to Australia, said, We are happy to welcome the state of Victoria onboard as the first subnational government to join GOWA. This truly strengthens the multi-stakeholder nature of the alliance, which brings together a wide range of stakeholders in order to accelerate offshore wind deployment globally through political mobilisation and the creation of a global community of practice. I look forward to further deepening our collaboration with the state of Victoria on offshore wind.



Ben Backwell, CEO, Global Wind Energy Council said: This momentous announcement demonstrates that Australias ambition to become an offshore wind powerhouse runs from the federal government through to state governments and beyond. Ambition must be allied to action, and the collaborative approach shown by Australias government in supporting this application can be a model for action elsewhere.



One of the pillars of the Global Offshore Wind Alliance is to accelerate the deployment of offshore wind, and the enthusiasm shown by the Victorian Government, particularly Minister for Energy and Resources Lily DAmbrosio, in hosting the first APAC Summit in Melbourne will highlight how collaboration, knowledge-sharing and public-private interaction are key to delivering on the APAC regions enormous potential.



Amisha Patel, Director, Global Public Affairs, Offshore Wind, Global Wind Energy Council, said: The Global Offshore Wind Alliance is delighted to welcome its first sub-national member into this community of offshore wind best-practice.




Late summer brings us the bounty of ripe tomatoes, peppers, squash, corn, kale, cucumbers and swiss chard, which, in addition to readily available grocery store staples and flavorful homemade dressings, make it easy to pull together fresh, satisfying salads. Whether you choose to make them as tasty side dishes or light main courses, these delicious salads are a delightful way to eat your vegetables. We share recipes from five vegetable-forward cookbooks to sample.

Aubrie Pick

Salmon BLT Salad With Spicy Tomatillo Ranch Dressing

Kristin Cavallari made a name for herself as a featured personality on the hit MTV reality show Laguna Beach. Shes now a mom of three, a successful fashion and jewelry designer and author. She follows up her two best-selling cookbooks with Truly Simple: 140 Healthy Recipes for Weekday Cooking. Drawing on her experience as a busy mom striving to craft nutritious meals her family will love, she shares personal stories and her go-to recipes, 126 of which are gluten-free. The book is health-focused, and Cavallaris recipes are fresh, flavorful and, most importantly, fun.

Try it: Salmon BLT Salad With Spicy Tomatillo Ranch Dressing

Kristin Teig

Arugula Salad With Whole-Lemon Vinaigrette

Summer is a natural time for salads  gardens are bursting, temperatures are soaring and salads are light, fresh and easy to eat. But for Sheela Prakash, contributing food editor at The Kitchn and author of Salad Seasons: Vegetable-Forward Dishes All Year, salads are a menu staple all year. In this beautifully illustrated cookbook, she takes readers through the basics of making a top-notch salad (pay attention to textures, think beyond the usual produce, learn how to mix and match) and offers tasty, easy-to-follow recipes for every season. Youll definitely want to add them to your regular meal rotation.

Try it: Arugula Salad With Whole-Lemon Vinaigrette
This blog covers software patent news and issues with a particular focus on wireless, mobile devices (smartphones, tablet computers, connected cars) as well as select antitrust matters surrounding those devices.
Fall is always rich with wonderful fiction  a wave of new releases arrives with the colder weather, then slows to a trickle in December, when the gift books and self-help guides start their rise. And this season brings some spectacular new novels, including, in September, my two favorites of the year (so far): Wellness by Nathan Hill and North Woods by Daniel Mason. Both are totally absorbing, brilliantly written stories. If and when you get a chance to check them out  or if you have your own suggestions for fall reading  please offer your thoughts in the comments section below.



These 26 books are just some highlights among the many worthy works of fiction coming in the next few months.

AARP Membership Join AARP for $12 for your first year when you sign up for Automatic Renewal. Get instant access to members-only products and hundreds of discounts, a free second membership, and a subscription to AARP The Magazine. Join Now Knopf / Riverhead Books / Scribner / Marco Bottigelli/Getty

Literary fiction



First up is The Fraud by Zadie Smith (September 5), the British author of the bestselling 2000 novel White Teeth. Its various storylines include one focused on a legal trial that in real life riveted Victorian England involving an Australian butcher  possibly an impostor  who claimed to be the rightful heir to a wealthy British estate.



In The Vaster Wilds (September 12), the always captivating Lauren Groff (2015's Fates and Furies, in particular) turns to meticulously researched historical fiction with a gripping story about a girl who exchanges starvation and violence in the 17th-century colonial settlement of Jamestown, Virginia, for the trials of surviving alone in the wilderness.



As noted above, one of my faves of the season so far is Wellness by Nathan Hill (September 19), about a couple, Jack and Elizabeth, who meet in Chicago and fall wildly in love  then out of love when we revisit them as parents and at a point of middle-age exhaustion and disenchantment. It ends up being a thoughtful, often humorous, cultural critique and exploration of why we believe the things we do, why we love who and what we love and so much more.



North Woods by Daniel Mason (September 19) is another must-read, with a unique premise, wonderfully executed. Its the story of one house in Western Massachusetts and its various inhabitants, from the pre-Colonial era to modern times. The past ends up haunting (sometimes literally) the people who cycle through the home, including the twin daughters of an apple farmer and a man with mental illness who can perceive the ghosts that still live in his midst. Mason also offers rich, evocative depictions of the changing wooded landscape, which evolves along with the humans it harbors.



The Armor of Light by Ken Follett (September 26) is the fifth and final book in the authors epic series that spans the last thousand years. This one is set in Europe during the Industrial Revolution.


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During a campaign event at the Iowa State Fair, the Republican presidential candidate previously rapped a verse of the rapper's 2002 track 'Lose Yourself' and deemed it his favorite walkout song.

Aug 29, 2023

AceShowbiz - Vivek Ramaswamy has broken silence on Eminem's demand. Shortly after being banned from using the "Lose Yourself" rapper's songs on his campaign trail, the Republican presidential candidate responded to the request.

On Monday, August 28, the 38-year-old politician gave his response, through his representative, to the 50-year-old spitter not allowing his tracks to be used during political events. Speaking to TMZ, the rep stated, "Vivek just got on the stage and cut loose. To the American people's chagrin, we will have to leave the rapping to the real slim shady."

A few days prior, Vivek surprised a crowd at the Iowa State Fair by delivering a verse of Eminem's 2002 track "Lose Yourself". He was making an appearance at the event to speak alongside Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds. During the August 12 event, Vivek chanted, "Snap back to reality, ope there goes gravity."

In the same event, Vivek also revealed that the song is his favorite walkout song at campaign events. "It's like, young and scrappy," he described the song to Kim at that time. In response, Kim said, "I am really starting to understand my age. I'm going to have to go look that up."

However, Eminem did not like Vivek's move in playing his song during a campaign trail. The "Mockingbird" rapper approached the music licenser BMI and requested that his works be banned from being used at Vivek's campaign events. As a result, a representative for BMI sent a cease and desist letter, which was dated August 23, to the campaign's lawyer.

The letter, which was obtained by The Daily Mail, read, "BMI has received communications from Marshall B. Mathers, III, professionally known as Eminem, objecting to the Vivek Ramaswamy campaign's use of Eminem's musical compositions (the 'Eminem Works') and requesting that BMI remove all Eminem Works from the Agreement."

"This letter serves as notice that the Eminem Works are excluded from the Agreement effective immediately," BMI further stated. "BMI will consider any performance of the Eminem Works by the Vivek 2024 campaign from this date forward to be a material breach of the Agreement for which BMI reserves all rights and remedies with respect thereto."

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The wife of the 'Family Feud' host takes to Instagram to address the cheating allegations against her, sharing a Bible verse about 'How to Handle Being Lied About.'

Aug 29, 2023

AceShowbiz - Marjorie Harvey is turning to her faith when dealing with recent rumors about her marriage. The wife of Steve Harvey has spoken up after she was accused of cheating on her husband with his own bodyguard.

Making use of her social media page, Marjorie let out a statement on Monday, August 28 to slam the "foolishness and lies" spread about her alleged infidelity. "My husband and I don't usually stop to address all the foolishness and lies that have been spread about us," she wrote. "However to whom much is given much is required. I understand that with my platform comes some sort of responsibility to those that may not be as strong as we are."

Marjorie also shared a Bible verse about "How to Handle Being Lied About." It read, "When they hurled their insults at him, he did not retaliate; when he suffered, he made no threats. Instead, he entrusted himself to him who judges justly." She added in the caption, "Read and share this with your love ones that may not know how to properly cope. God Bless all of you."

Marjorie's response came after Steve himself debunked the affair rumors at Invest Fest 2023 in Atlanta earlier on Sunday. He said onstage, "I don't know what y'all doing, but find something else to do, 'cause we fine."

"Lord have mercy. I sure wish I could cuss, though," the 66-year-old continued with some humor, prompting the audience to laugh. He went on stressing, "Sometimes you just wanna respond. But I ain't got no time for rumors and gossip, man, God been good to me. I'm still shining, I appreciate y'all coming."

Also speaking on the couple's relationship was Nigerian Senator Ned Nwoko, who claimed that he reached out personally to Steve following the reports. "When we read about our friend Steve Harvey and his lovely wife having issues, we had to contact Him," the businessman wrote on social media. "He confirmed that he and his wife are very much okay and it's all fake news and should be disregarded. The family is happy together and we wish them all the best."

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The 'Mask Off' emcee was previously sued by rapper Gutta, also known as DaQuan Robinson, for allegedly copying his track 'When U Think About It'.

Aug 29, 2023

AceShowbiz - Future has scored a big win in his legal battle against rapper Gutta. The "Mask Off" spitter was previously hit with copyright infringement over his song "When I Think About It", but the case was dropped by U.S. District Judge Martha Pacold on August 25.

For the record, Gutta, also known as DaQuan Robinson, accused Future of copying his track "When U Think About It". However, on Friday, Judge Pacold ruled that both songs aren't similar to each other. The judge claimed the titles of the two tracks "lacked uniqueness for copyright protection."

The judge went to note that guns, money and jewelry have been common themes to be found in rap music. The judge even mentioned some track examples like the Notorious B.I.G.'s "Machine Gun Funk", Wu-Tang Clan's "C.R.E.A.M." as well as Kanye West's "Diamonds from Sierra Leone".

Not stopping there, judge Pacold also cited Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young's 1970 hit "Our House" to dismiss Gutta's idea of a copyright-protected "core lyric." The judge argued, "The core lyric, 'our house is a very, very, very fine house,' is used to support the entire rest of the song, which uses the house and its constituent elements as the setting for the narrator's relationship."

"This songwriting technique is not unique to Robinson, nor mid-century Canadian-American bands that feature intricate vocal harmonies," she further elaborated. "The mere use of a 'core lyric' to support a song's storyline is not protectable element because it is a frequently utilized technique in popular songwriting."

Gutta filed the lawsuit in 2021, alleging that Future had ripped off his song "When U Think About It" for his "Beastmode 2" track. Gutta said he sent the song to rapper Doe Boy and producer Zaytoven in 2017, who were associated with Future's label.

However, Gutta did not list either Doe Boy or Zaytoven as defendants in the lawsuit. Instead, he sued the 39-year-old Atlanta rap star.

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California Attorney General Rob Bonta decided to file a lawsuit against the Chino Valley Unified School District (CVUSD) in Southern California.

Bonta did this after CVUSD adopted a new school policy requiring schools to notify parents if children show signs of gender identification or pronoun changes.

CVUSD Sued Because of School Policy About Children's Gender Identity Change

According to Forbes' latest report, the CVUSD Board of Education approved the controversial school policy in July.

The school board's president, Sonja Shaw, explained that the policy will help them inform parents that they are sending their beloved children to school to learn and not for anything else.

Now, Bonta decided to file a legal action in state court on Monday, Aug. 28, as reported by the Associated Press.

The California AG argued that this kind of school policy will force transgender students and other kids experiencing gender identity changes to come out.

Bonta added that this will be a problem since forcing them out will negatively affect their well-being. In his lawsuit, the attorney wants to court to issue an order that will immediately block CVUSD's new school policy.

"For far too many transgender children and gender nonconforming youth, school serves as their only safe haven," said Rob.

He added that since school is where children can freely express their chosen gender identities-a place where they can find safety, privacy, and validation-it needs to be protected.

Read Also: Southern California School Board Formally Rejects Curriculum Mentioning Harvey Milk, But Why?

Nearby School Districts are Doing the Same

CVUSD President Sonja Shaw said that the latest lawsuit against them is not really surprising since state officials are already making efforts to "shut parents out of their kids' lives."

But, Shaw said that they will stand their ground to protect children since their policy is not breaking any law.

"Parents have a constitutional right in the upbringing of their children. Period," he stated.

Aside from CVUSD, other nearby school districts are implementing similar policies as well.

These school regulations are creating fierce debates at local school board meetings.

Because of this, the intense national conversation over transgender rights is becoming more serious.

In other U.S. states, schools are also being required to out trans, as well as non-binary students to their parents. If you want to learn more about the latest issue of CVUSD, you can click this link.

Related Article: Southern California School District Votes To Recognize Pride Month, Prompts Protests

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The 'Real Housewives of Beverly Hills' star is bombarded with criticisms after uploading a photo of her and Michael Coste, wherein her arm and shirt sleeve were noticeably blurred.

Aug 29, 2023

AceShowbiz - Kyle Richards has removed her picture due to a noticeable editing error. Shortly after uploading an edited snap via social media, the star of "The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills" was bombarded with backlash over a "ridiculous" photoshop fail.

On Sunday, August 27, the 54-year-old Bravolebrity let out a picture of her and Hermes executive Michael Coste on her Instagram and Facebook accounts simultaneously. However, she later deleted the post on her Instagram page and kept the one on Facebook.

In the Facebook post itself, Kyle appeared to have a noticeable Photoshop error on one of her arms and a sleeve of her shirt. The two areas were blurred and covered with a layer of an unmatching color. The photo editing software might not be able to identify the difference between her arm, shirt and the beige background of the photo.

The reality TV star was wearing a white crop top that came with two short ruffle sleeves and several small holes. She also donned a pair of loose ivory-colored pants and white sneakers. She added a silver wristwatch, pink Hermes Birkin bag, a pair of silvery hoop earrings and several rings. For the hair, she styled her long brown tresses into a straight hairdo and parted it in the middle.

Along with the snap, Kyle wrote in the caption of her Facebook post, "When in Paris my first stop is always to @michaelcostefr [orange heart emoji] Until next time," adding a face blowing a kiss emoji. "And I am on my tippy toes thinking an inch and a half may make the world of difference in this photo. At 5'2' you do what you gotta do [beaming face with smiling eyes emoji]," she added.

In the comments section, one Facebook user blasted Kyle, "Photoshop fail! Just be you. Stop this ridiculous photoshop madness!" Another asked, "Why is the picture so photoshopped? What happened to your foot and whats with your arm?"

The negative online responses did not stop there. A third stated, "The photo is so filtered and photoshopped it's so evident, why bother posting." Meanwhile, a fourth questioned, "Why would she post this...it's so obvious how did she not realize lol."

Kyle's pal Michael released the same photo that she removed from her Instagram page on his own Instagram account. In this particular picture, her arm and sleeve looked normal without any noticeable Photoshop errors. Accompanying the snap, Michael penned in the caption, "#KyleRichards is back to #Paris ! It's so good to see her again [diamond emoji] #RHOBH."

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The daughter of Jewish conductor Leonard Bernstein is frustrated by the 'annoying distraction' caused by backlash over Bradley Cooper's prosthetic nose.

Aug 30, 2023

AceShowbiz - Leonard Bernstein's daughter has dismissed the controversy surrounding Bradley Cooper's prosthetic nose in his portrayal of her father as an "annoying distraction." The 48-year-old actor has landed in hot water for wearing a large prosthetic nose as he plays the legendary Jewish conductor in the biopic "Maestro" but Bernstein's eldest daughter Jamie is frustrated by the backlash.

"It's just such an annoying distraction. The people who were waiting to get mad about something were just waiting to pounce," she told Vanity Fair magazine.

Bradley worked with Oscar-winning makeup artist Kazu Hiro to create the controversial nose and Jamie, along with her siblings Alexander and Nina, were amazed by the resemblance he had to their father.

She explained, "It just made us gasp at what they were able to achieve. He would send us photographs on his phone, and some of them were so spot on that we would think, 'Oh, come on now, he just sneaked in a picture of our dad.' "

Cooper both stars in and directs "Maestro" and Jamie considers him the perfect actor to bring her father to life on the big screen ahead of the picture's premiere at the Venice Film Festival on Saturday, September 2.

She said, "His energy was so similar to our dad's, and his way of being in the world and relating to people reminded us more and more of our dad, and we began to see how right he was for the role in ways that wouldn't even have occurred to us at first."

Bernstein's children had released a statement in support of the "A Star Is Born" actor when the row first erupted earlier this month. They said, "Bradley Cooper included the three of us along every step of his amazing journey as he made his film about our father."

"It breaks our hearts to see any misrepresentations or misunderstandings of his efforts. It happens to be true that Leonard Bernstein had a nice, big nose. Bradley chose to use make-up to amplify his resemblance, and we are perfectly fine with that. We're also certain that our dad would have been fine with it as well."

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The E-Gaming Federation (EGF) and Indian Statistical Institute, Kolkata (ISIK) have unveiled a comprehensive study, titled Unveiling the Potential and Scope of the Online Skill Gaming Industry: A Study with Technology Students and Professionals. This study sheds light on the growing attraction of the online gaming sector within Indias technology community. This study, aimed at understanding the aspirations and perceptions of tech enthusiasts, has yielded remarkable insights into the online skill gaming industry's potential to drive India's technological and economic growth.

Conducted through an extensive survey of 4,644 individuals across Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Kerala, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu, the study demonstrates a very strong interest among both students and professionals in the online skill gaming sector. Notably, 73% of respondents expressed a strong inclination towards pursuing a career within this dynamic domain, highlighting the sector's vast growth potential. Furthermore, 68% acknowledged its role in enhancing skill sets, while 60% believed that a chance to create for the world in India could stem the brain drain to overseas tech jobs.

On the unveiling, Dr Diganta Mukherjee, Professor at the Indian Statistical Institute, Kolkata, said, The research highlights the symbiotic relationship between technology and gaming. As the industry rapidly evolves, we have a unique opportunity to harness the creative potential of our youth and build a robust ecosystem that nurtures both technological innovation and economic growth.

Dr Subhamoy Maitra, Professor at the Indian Statistical Institute, Kolkata, said. This analysis unearths a strong belief among the respondents that India's homegrown gaming industry can reduce the brain drainage of talents in the technology domain, offering them opportunities towards innovation and growth right here on home soil. Within the larger gaming domain, from an intellectual point of view, skill gaming enjoys a particularly strong interest among technology professionals.

The online skill gaming industry is the new rapidly rising industry in the era of digitalization. The sector continues proliferating, with cutting-edge technologies, trends, and consumer and business interests driving innovation. This is reflected in the significant interest of tech professionals and students considering a career in the industry, owing to the substantial investment the sector has made in cutting-edge technologies like AI/ML over the last decade. The recognition that India has the potential to become a center for global gaming innovation would ensure the industrys ability to grow, create employment opportunities, and meaningfully contribute towards the $1 Trillion digital economy vision of our Honble Prime Minister, concluded Malay Kumar Shukla, Secretary of the E-Gaming Federation.

During the academic year 2021-22, over 200,000 Indian students pursued higher education in the US, while the Indian IT sector faced a persistent 25.2% attrition rate in 2021. The continuing trend of talent exodus forecasts the potential departure of 2 to 2.2 million IT-BPM professionals by 2025. Amidst this scenario of talent drain, the online gaming sector emerges as a promising career avenue, fostering skill growth and innovation within Indias tech landscape.

The study also showcases the online skill gaming sectors appeal to highly skilled engineers, with 55% of respondents identifying it as a preferred domain due to its emphasis on technology adaptation and innovation. This sentiment aligns with the industrys rapid integration of advanced technologies like AI/ML and VR, positioning India as a leading force in technological advancements.

Among the other key takeaways from the study:

Around 67% participants showed a willingness to pursue professional education in the gaming sector, indicating a desire to up-skill and contribute to the industry's growth.

Individuals showed a diverse range of interests in technology areas related to gaming, with 31% favouring Hard-core Programming, 42% interested in Theories related to Algorithms, AI/ML, Hardware, and 22% inclined towards Art Software and animation tools.

When it comes to the online skill gaming sector, subjects cited Programming (44%), Testing and Automation (40%) and Art (16%) as interest areas.

While acknowledging the significance of Data Science and AI in the online gaming business, 63% of respondents believe that current courses/education need to be more tailored to the sector's needs.

An overwhelming 54% expressed a need for specialisation in Online Gaming in Bachelor's courses related to Computer Science and Engineering.

Majority (75%) expressed a preference for careers in technology areas related to 5G, metaverse, VR, and other new technologies, indicating the sector's potential to attract talent through innovation.

Participants recognized the potential of 'Gamification' in expanding the scope of the gaming industry, with 56% agreeing that it offers tremendous opportunities for innovation.

Over 62% individuals perceived that the opportunities in the online skill gaming sector can enhance the overall skill sets of students and employees alike.

The studys insightful analysis emphasises the vital role the sector could play in India's economic and technological trajectory. To realise this potential, it is imperative that policymakers, industry stakeholders, and academia work hand in hand to create an environment that fosters innovation, skill development, and entrepreneurship.
Talent powerhouse, Vijay Varma, is currently on a dream run following his unforgettable portrayals in Dahaad, Lust Stories 2, and Kaalkoot, the actor is now gearing up for the 4th release of the year, with Sujoy Ghosh's 'Jaane Jaan'. Popularly known as the Versatile Varma, the actor has stamped his name all over this year with his stellar performances and International outings from Berlinale, to Cannes to most recently, Indian film festival at Melbourne, where he was awarded the title of 'Best Performance - Male' for 'Dahaad'.

Leading OTT platform recently, dropped a first glimpse of the upcoming film, showcasing Vijay Varma alongside the stellar starcast of Kareena Kapoor Khan and Jaideep Alhawaat. His look from Jaane Jaan is different from the past work he has done this year. In the short glimpse, the actor can be seen packing a punch in one of the scenes, which has left everyone wondering if he will be stepping in an action zone now? The anticipation for this project has soared to unparalleled heights, as the first look of Vijay Varma from Jaane Jaan unleashes a wave of excitement, on more he has in store now!

From playing a nefarious serial killer in Dahaad, to portraying a naive police officer in Kalkoot and another gray character in Lust Stories 2, Vijay Varma has won hearts across with his ability to pull of versatile characters, all in an year's time. Meanwhile, apart from Jaane Jaan, Vijay Varma will also be seen in Homi Adajania's Murder Mubarak and the much awaited Mirzapur 3.
Office of the Attorney General of Switzerland

Bern, 29.08.2023 - The Office of the Attorney General of Switzerland on 28.08.2023 filed an indictment in the Federal Criminal Court against Khaled NEZZAR, the former Algerian defence minister and member of the High Council of State (Haut Comite dEtat, HCE). According to the indictment, NEZZAR is accused of violating the laws of armed conflicts in accordance with the Geneva Conventions between 1992 and 1994 in connection with the civil war in Algeria and of committing crimes against humanity. In particular, it is alleged that at the very least he knowingly and willingly condoned, coordinated and encouraged the torture and other cruel, inhumane or humiliating acts, physical and psychological assaults, arbitrary detentions and convictions and extra-judicial executions.

In the indictment submitted to the Federal Criminal Court (FCC) following complex investigations which involved questioning 24 persons, the Office of the Attorney General of Switzerland (OAG) sets out the following facts of the case:

Historical background

Following a period of social unrest, a multi-party system was introduced in Algeria in February 1989 under a new Constitution. Subsequently, the political party known as the Front Islamique du Salut' (FIS) was established. In 1990, after the incumbent president stood down as defence minister - an office that had previously been tied to the presidency - the Armed Forces Chief of Staff, Khaled NEZZAR, was appointed defence minister. He thereby took charge of the security forces and, a few months later, the secret services as well. In December 1990 the People's Army, led by NEZZAR, published a memorandum setting out a plan of action for an armed campaign against the Islamist opposition. After the FIS won a majority in the first ballot of the parliamentary elections, there was further unrest, to which the Algerian government responded by stopping the elections and postponing them for an unlimited period. Subsequently, the opposition formed itself into armed groups. In response to the events and following the dissolution of the parliament and the resignation of the president, Chadli BENJEDID, the Haut comite d'Etat' (HCE) was established, with NEZZAR as a member, with the aim of guaranteeing the continuity of the state, ensuring that its institutions functioned, and preserving constitutional order. On 9 February 1992 the HCE imposed a state of emergency and the policy for eliminating Islamist movements that NEZZAR had been instrumental in planning in 1990 was implemented. According to various public sources, during the civil war between 1992 and 1999, known as the decennie noire' (the Black Decade), up to 200,000 people were killed and around 1.5 million people were driven from their homes. A further 20,000 persons are believed to have disappeared.

Opening the criminal investigation against NEZZAR

In 2011, following a criminal complaint from the non-governmental organisation TRIAL International, the OAG opened criminal proceedings against Khaled NEZZAR, who at the time was resident in Switzerland, on suspicion of war crimes in accordance with Articles 108 and 109 of the Military Criminal Code of 13 June 1927 (the former MCC) committed during the civil war in Algeria. In 2017, the OAG abandoned the proceedings on the grounds that the Algerian Civil War had not been an internal armed conflict as defined by law, with the result that Switzerland did not have jurisdiction to assess any alleged war crimes. On appeal, however, the Federal Criminal Court decided that the clashes were of such violent intensity that they could be considered to be an armed conflict as defined in the common Article 3 of the four Geneva Conventions and in the related international case law. Furthermore, the Appeals Chamber regarded the opposition as sufficiently organised to be recognised as an armed group in terms of the Conventions. Subsequently, the OAG resumed the criminal proceedings. After questioning a total of 24 persons, it has now filed an indictment.

The offences charged

In the indictment, the OAG alleges that Khaled NEZZAR as a person of influence in Algeria in his capacity and function as the defence minister and as an HCE member appointed trusted associates to key positions and knowingly and willingly created structures in order to eliminate the Islamist opposition according to his plan of action. This led to the commission of war crimes and widespread and systematic attacks on civilians suspected of sympathising with the opposition.

In particular the OAG has documented eleven incidents each with several allegations that took place between 1992 and 1994. The suspected victims are alleged to have been subjected to torture using water and/or electric shocks and other cruel, inhumane or degrading treatments, as well as assaults on their physical and psychological integrity. In addition, arbitrary detentions and convictions as well as extra-judicial executions took place. According to the indictment, in each of these cases, NEZZAR knowingly and willingly condoned, coordinated or ordered what was done. He is therefore accused of violating the laws of armed conflicts in accordance with common Article 3 of the Geneva Conventions of 12 August 1949 in conjunction with Articles 4 and 6 of the Second Additional Protocol of 1977 to the Geneva Conventions, which, in accordance with Article 109 paragraph 1 of the Military Criminal Code in the version that applied at the time of the offences (the former MCC) in conjunction with Article 108 paragraph 2 of the former MCC, is a criminal offence; he is further accused of committing crimes against humanity (Art. 264a Swiss Criminal Code (SCC)).

The OAG will make its final submissions at the hearing before the FCC in Bellinzona. The presumption of innocence applies to the accused until the final judgment has been pronounced. With the filing of the indictment, the FCC has sole responsibility for providing further information.

The prosecution of crimes under international criminal law in Switzerland before 2011:

Under the former MCC, a war crime has been a criminal offence in Switzerland since 1968, regardless of where it takes place and of the nationality of the offender or the victim. Article 109 of the former MCC expressly makes an offence of violating the provisions of international agreements on warfare, the protection of persons and property, and other recognised laws and customs of war. Common Article 3 of the Geneva Conventions provides that in the event of an armed conflict that is not of an international character that occurs on the territory of one of the High Contracting Parties, each party to the conflict is bound to apply certain provisions; accordingly, violence to life or person, and the cruel treatment and torture of persons who are not directly involved in the hostilities are prohibited. Switzerland ratified the Geneva Conventions on 31 March 1950, Algeria on 20 June 1960.

Original text in German

Address for enquiries

Communications Service of the Office of the Attorney General of Switzerland, info@ba.admin.ch, T +41 58 464 32 40

Publisher

Office of the Attorney General of Switzerland

http://www.ba.admin.ch/




Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has directed the immediate suspension of teachers and the vice principal of a Delhi government school where two boys were allegedly sexually assaulted by their classmates in April this year. On Tuesday, Delhi education minister Atishi said Kejriwal directed disciplinary action against the accused for failing to report the matter to the Police.

In a letter to the Education Secretary, Atishi said, It is Our responsibility to ensure all children are safe and secure in our schools. And if any such instances of child sexual abuse are brought to light, then appropriate legal action has to be taken. We have to take all possible steps to ensure that such an instance is not repeated in our schools, she wrote.

She added that the incident should make us reflect and take corrective measures. We must do everything to ensure children are safe and secure at all times. Atishi added that Kejriwal has directed the Directorate of Education to ensure rigorous training of all the principals and teachers on the provisions of POCSO.

Mandatory reporting of such incidents, tools for early identification of abuse, types of abuse, the impact of abuse on children, and remedial measures enabling the capacity building of teachers to support such students are among the measures directed by the chief minister. According to Atishi, the chief minister also directed the Directorate of Education to prepare high-quality material for the reference of all teachers and principals and issue guidelines for schools to handle cases of abuse in a supportive environment for children.

The Delhi Government has set up an inquiry committee to probe into the alleged sexual assault cases of two minor boys in a government school, according to an official statement. It is tragic that such a despicable incident allegedly happened in the summer camp organized by the school. An inquiry committee has been set up, and a thorough probe is underway on the subject. Let the due course of law take place, said an official statement.

If any teachers or staff were aware of this issue and did not bring it to the attention of higher authorities, then stringent action will be taken against them, it added. We can assure you all that the Delhi Government will take swift and stringent action on the matter. We want to set the standard of education in the country, which includes character development among students, read the statement.

It further said that such culpable deeds would not be tolerated and would be dealt with due severity. Delhi Commission for Women (DCW) Chief Swati Maliwal had on Monday issued notices to the Delhi Police and Directorate of Education in the alleged sexual assault case.

The Delhi Commission for Women has received information of sexual assault with two minor boys in a government school in Delhi. A 13-year-old boy who studies in the 8th standard in a government school in Rohini was allegedly sexually assaulted by other students of the school, the notice read. He has informed me that in April 2023, he attended school during summer camp, wherein some students forcibly took him to a nearby park and sexually assaulted him for 7 days. He has alleged that the accused students also threatened him not to disclose the incident to anyone. He stated that a couple of days ago, he narrated his ordeal to two of his teachers, but they asked him not to report the matter, it added.

DCW Maliwal further mentioned that in another case, a 12-year-old minor was also sexually assaulted by the same group of students. Another boy, aged 12 years old, has also alleged that the same students sexually assaulted him as well. He has informed me that in April 2023, during the summer camp, he was sexually assaulted in the school toilet. He has stated that the accused students had threatened him not to disclose the incident to anyone, the notice read.

He has further alleged that around 16 days ago, a student again tried to sexually assault him in the toilet. He has further stated that he had narrated the incident to two of his teachers in July and August, but they had asked him not to talk about the incident to anyone, it added. DCW has requested the Delhi Police and Directorate of Education to provide a detailed action taken report on the two matters by September 1, 2023.
The U.S. Goverment Accountability Office (GAO) will investigate the decision to locate U.S. Space Command headquarters in Colorado Springs, Colo., the office told AL.com today.

Yes, we accepted the request and we will issue a report, GAO spokesman Charles Young said. The first thing that will occur now is that the team will determine the full scope of what we will cover and the methodology to be used.

U.S. Rep. Mike Rogers (R-Alabama) and Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall along with other Alabama lawmakers asked for a federal investigation of the July decision to keep the base at its startup location in Colorado. Redstone Arsenal in Huntsville had been the top headquarters candidate in the Pentagons official base location competition.

I am glad to see the Government Accountability Office has heeded my call to open an investigation into the obviously political Space Command basing decision, Rogers said today. The public deserves to know why and how the Biden Administration manipulated this process, and the GAO investigation is one piece of a larger puzzle.

The selection process Rogers referred to was created to avoid politicizing base location decisions. Multiple states routinely compete to host bases  26 states wanted this one - because of the economic stability of a base and what that can mean economically to a city and state.

Young said the GAO wont have an expected completion date for the review until the scope and methodology are decided. And what happens if the review finds an flawed decision process isnt immediately clear.

Once we do complete it, it will need to go through a security review with any agencies involved to ensure we can issue a public product, or whether it will be need to be restricted in some way due to national security information, GAO spokesman Young said.

The Space Command decision process has been controversial because it keeps changing. The process first ranked Alabama the top site and former President Trump said he made the decision to put it in Huntsville. President Biden has said he decided to leave it in Colorado.

Following a thorough and deliberate evaluation process, and after consultation with Secretary (Lloyd) Austin and weighing the input of senior military leaders, Pentagon spokesman Brig. Gen. Patrick Ryder said July 31, President Biden notified the Department of Defense that he has selected Colorado Springs as the permanent location of the U.S. Space Command headquarters.

Secretary Austin, Secretary of the Air Force (Frank) Kendall, and U.S. Space Command commander Gen. James Dickinson all support the presidents decision, Ryder said.

(Updated to include a comment from U.S. Rep. Mike Rogers and correct the name of the investigative agency)

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(Photo : Photo by AAMIR QURESHI/AFP via Getty Images)

Students attend their class after private universities were reopened in Kabul on September 6, 2021. - Women attending private Afghan universities must wear an abaya robe and niqab covering most of the face, the Taliban have ordered, and classes must be segregated by sex -- or at least divided by a curtain.

France has declared that wearing abayas in public schools will be illegal starting in September.

This decision has sparked controversy, with some officials contending that it adheres to the principles of "laicite," the French form of secularism, and critics viewing it as a measure targeting French Muslims, as per Reuters.

France's Abaya Ban Sparks Debate

Education Minister Gabriel Attal defended the prohibition citing the "laicite" principle, which prohibits religious displays in educational institutions. However, critics believe that this policy has disproportionately affected the Muslim community.

Attal's rhetoric was greeted with skepticism when he described the abaya, a long and flowing Islamic garment, as "a religious gesture intended to test the republic's resistance to the secular sanctuary that school must constitute."

Furthermore, he argued that classrooms should not exhibit outward signs of religious affiliation, promoting a neutral environment. Olivier Veran, a government spokesman, took a firmer posture, condemning the abaya as a "political attack" and a "political symbol" and implying that wearing it is equivalent to proselytizing.

Attal intends to provide clear guidelines at the national level for school administrators before the September 4 return to classes. This move follows a lengthy debate on the issue of abayas in French schools.

In the past, French schools have prohibited women and girls from wearing the Islamic headscarf or facial coverings under a law passed in 2004 that forbids public displays of religious affiliation.

Unlike head coverings, abayas existed in a gray area and were not explicitly banned. However, in November of the previous year, the education ministry issued a circular categorizing the abaya as part of a group of garments that could be banned if worn in a manner that openly displayed religious affiliation-this circular featured merchandise like bandanas and long skirts.

Despite the absence of an official ban, it was reported that some Muslim girls in Marseille did not attend school due to alleged mistreatment by instructors regarding their abayas. In May, city high school students protested what they perceived to be discriminatory treatment of Muslim girls donning abayas.

While some have applauded Attal's declaration, others have criticized its implications. Eric Ciotto, leader of the right-wing opposition Republicans party, supported the prohibition. In contrast, Clementine Autain, leader of the left-wing opposition France Unbowed party, criticized the move as clothing policing, according to the New York Times.

Read Also: Biden Admin Hopes Raimondo's China Visit Will Improve US-China Tourism, Trades

France's Abaya Ban

Autain argued that the announcement violates France's foundational secular values and reflects an unjustified obsessive rejection of Muslims on the part of the government.

This contentious decision is occurring in broader French debates about Islam. The conversation intensified after the 2020 beheading of teacher Samuel Paty by a radicalized Chechen refugee in response to Paty's displaying of Prophet Mohammed caricatures to his pupils.

In this context, the Council of French Muslim Worship (CFCM), a national organization representing multiple Muslim associations, has argued that clothing items alone do not comprise religious symbols.

The abaya prohibition has become a flashpoint, exposing underlying tensions regarding secularism, religious liberty, and cultural integration in France. Implementing this policy in September will undoubtedly spark additional debates on the subject in France and internationally, CBS News reported.

Related Article: China Allegedly Making Harassment Phone Calls to Japan-Is Fukushima Wastewater Release to Blame?

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Hurricane Idalia is on a path for Floridas Gulf Coast.

Idalia strengthened to a top-end Category 2 hurricane on Tuesday night and is expected to become a Category 4 storm with winds up to 130 mph before coming onshore in Florida, according to the National Hurricane Center.

When will Idalia make landfall? The hurricane center said on the current forecast track Idalia will make landfall somewhere in Floridas Big Bend region on Wednesday morning.

The hurricane center has nudged Idalias track a little to the west as on Tuesday.

Idalia was moving slowly on Monday but has since picked up its pace as of Tuesday night and will continue to track northward at a faster pace through landfall on Wednesday.

As of 10 p.m. CDT Tuesday, the center of Hurricane Idalia was located about 125 miles west of Tampa, or 185 miles south of Tallahassee, and was moving north fairly quickly, at 18 mph.

Idalias winds increased again to 110 mph, making it a Category 2 hurricane. The hurricane center warned that rapid intensification will continue to be possible tonight over the record-warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico, and Idalia could be at Category 4 strength (winds starting at 130 mph) in the next few hours.

The hurricane center said in that on the official forecast track that the center of Idalia will move over the eastern Gulf of Mexico tonight, reach the Gulf coast of Florida on Wednesday, and move close to the Carolina coastline on Thursday.
Idalia strengthened to the third hurricane of 2023 in the Atlantic on Tuesday morning and was a top-end Category 2 hurricane with 110 mph winds as of Tuesday night.

And it could be a Category 4 before it makes landfall, forecasters say.

Idalia was closing in on Floridas Big Bend region, where landfall is anticipated on Wednesday morning.

The National Hurricane Center said late Tuesday that Idalias winds had climbed to 110 mph, just 1 mph shy of Category 3 strength. Forecasters added that Idalia would cross that threshold tonight, and its winds could climb as high as 130 mph -- Category 4 intensity.

The hurricane center said significant strengthening seems likely up to landfall.

Idalia could also bring 12 to 16 feet of catastrophic storm surge (another forecast increase) and nearly a foot of rain to parts of Florida, according to forecasters.

Hurricane and storm surge warnings continued along Floridas Gulf Coast late Tuesday, and warnings also stretched along parts of the the East Coast into the Carolinas.

The forecast path was nudged a bit to the west several times on Tuesday but still shows the center of the storm making landfall Wednesday morning somewhere on Floridas Gulf Coast in the Big Bend region. Winds, surge and rain will be felt far from where the center comes onshore, however.

However, the hurricane center noted on Tuesday that additional track shifts would be possible, saying it should be stressed that additional shifts to the track will be possible until the center reaches land.

On the current forecast path Idalia (pronounced ee-DAL-ya) is expected to move across the eastern Gulf of Mexico tonight and reach the Gulf coast of Florida on Wednesday. It will then move over north Florida and south Georgia and into the western Atlantic and track close to the Carolina coastline on Thursday.

As of 10 p.m. CDT Tuesday, the center of Hurricane Idalia was located about 125 miles west of Tampa, or 185 miles south of Tallahassee, and was moving north fairly quickly, at 18 mph.

Idalia winds increased again and were at 110 mph Tuesday night, making it a top-end Category 2 hurricane. The hurricane center warned that rapid intensification will be possible overnight.

The storm surge forecast has been increased twice and as of Tuesday night has 12 to 16 feet of surge possible along parts of the Florida Gulf Coast. Here is the updated forecast:

The storm surge forecast for Idalia has gotten worse -- now 12 to 16 feet of surge will be possible along part of Florida's Gulf Coast.

Here are the watches and warnings as of Tuesday:

* Storm Surge Warning from Englewood, Fla., northward to Indian Pass, including Tampa Bay.

* Hurricane Warning from middle of Longboat Key northward to Indian Pass, Fla., including Tampa Bay.

* Tropical Storm Warning from Chokoloskee, Fla., northward to the Middle of Longboat Key, from west of Indian Pass, Fla., to Mexico Beach, on the Atlantic coast from Sebastian Inlet, Fla., to South Santee River, S.C.

* Storm Surge Watch from Bonita Beach northward to Englewood, including Charlotte Harbor, from the mouth of the St. Marys River to South Santee River, S.C., from Beaufort Inlet to Drum Inlet, N.C., and Neuse and Pamlico Rivers in North Carolina.

* Hurricane Watch from the mouth of the St. Marys River to Edisto Beach, S.C.

* Tropical Storm Watch from North of Surf City, N.C., to the North Carolina/Virginia border and Pamlico and Albemarle Sounds.

The hurricane center also warned that a few tornadoes will be possible later today along the western part of the Florida peninsula. The tornado threat will spread northward into the Florida Big Bend by tonight.

HURRICANE FRANKLIN

Hurricane Franklin is expected to pass well to the northwest of Bermuda on Wednesday.

Franklin was a Category 3 hurricane on Tuesday night as it tracked northward in the Atlantic. Franklin is expected to pass to the northwest of Bermuda on Wednesday, but it will come close enough that a tropical storm warning has been issued for the island.

The hurricane center said tropical storm conditions could be possible on the island starting on Wednesday morning.

Franklin is not a direct threat to the U.S. but will continue to cause dangerous rip currents and rough seas along the East Coast this week.

As of 10 p.m. CDT Tuesday, Hurricane Franklin was located 245 miles west of Bermuda and was moving northeast at 12 mph.

Franklin had sustained winds of 115 mph late Tuesday. Franklin peaked with winds up to 150 mph on Monday but is expected to continue to weaken as it heads northward.

TROPICAL DEPRESSION ELEVEN

Tropical Depression 11 formed on Tuesday but isn't expected to hang around for long.

A new tropical depression formed on Tuesday in the central Atlantic, but it is expected to be short-lived and wont threaten land.

As of 10 p.m. CDT Tuesday, Tropical Depression Eleven was located about 790 miles east-southeast of Bermuda and was moving west-northwest at 2 mph.

The depression had winds of 35 mph and is could strengthen into Tropical Storm Jose, but only briefly.
A 16-year-old girl was stabbed to death during a fight with another teen girl over McDonalds sweet-and-sour dipping sauce, reports say.

A news release from the Metropolitan Police Department says Naima Liggon of Waldorf, Maryland, died at a hospital following the stabbing at about 2:10 a.m. Sunday. A 16-year-old girl from Waldorf has been arrested and charged with second degree murder while armed. Police say the teen suspect had a knife with her when she was arrested.

A detective tells DC News Now that five teens had met to go to a party in Oxon Hill, Md. After leaving the party, the group went to a McDonalds in Washington.

After ordering food in the restaurant, the teens returned to their vehicle, where a fight started over the dipping sauce, police tell WUSA Channel 9. Liggon reportedly was stabbed in the stomach and chest.

WUSA reports the teen suspect claims the stabbing was in self-defense, saying she was knocked to the ground by Liggon and another person.

In a statement released to WUSA, the victims family says Liggon was a beautiful, smart, funny, and unique young lady who loved life.

The impact of this senseless loss has affected our family, our friends and our community, the statement says. Naima will never see her prom or her graduation. We will not get to see her graduate from college or get married or have kids.
Two people were arrested on burglary charges after Morgan County authorities said a neighbor held the duo at gunpoint until deputies arrived.

The Morgan County Sheriffs Office said the incident happened Friday. Deputies responded to a burglary-in-progress call at a residence on Alabama 36 near Union Hill Road.

They arrived to find a neighbor, whose name was not released, holding two people at gunpoint.

Investigators charged Brandon Dewayne Henry, 34 of Somerville, with two counts of third degree burglary, along with two outstanding warrants. His bond was $6,149.

Marquita Jo Holt, 39, of Somerville, was also charged with two counts of third degree burglary. Her bond was set at $5,000.

Both subjects were booked into the Morgan County Jail.
Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey said Monday she is glad to see a ruling from the state Supreme Court that allows for the resumption of the construction of a two-lane bridge over the Intracoastal Waterway in Gulf Shores.

Its great for Baldwin County, and the state as a whole, Ivey said after delivering a speech during an annual state tourism conference Monday at The Grand Hotel in Point Clear.

Im real proud government in Alabama can get back to building roads and bridges, Ivey added. And the courts can stay in their lane.

When asked if she believes the courts will continue to stay in their lane, she responded, I sure do.

The case may not be over with. The plaintiffs in the lawsuit  the Baldwin County Bridge Company (BCBC), owners and operators of a toll bridge in Orange Beach near The Wharf and approximately 1.1 miles east of the new Gulf Shores bridge  hinted they might pursue an inverse condemnation claim against the Alabama Department of Transportation.

If the claim is pursued, it would likely go back before a judge in Montgomery County later this fall. The claim could establish a financial remedy for BCBC related to valuation damages to their toll bridge with the construction of the nearby Gulf Shores bridge.

The court recognized that BCBC has a viable inverse condemnation claim for money damages for the effective taking of its property that can proceed in the trial court, said BCBC president Neal Belitsky.

A rendering of the future Intracoastal Waterway Bridge that connects the Foley Beach Express to Gulf Shores, Ala. (rendering provided by the Alabama Department of Transportation).

Iveys administration has been the focus of months-long court case that made its way to the Alabama Supreme Court over the fate of a state-backed bridge in Gulf Shores.

The Alabama State Supreme Courts ruling on Friday claimed that a lower court judge erred in halting the bridges construction in May, and reversed a preliminary injunction issued by Montgomery County Circuit Judge Jimmie Pool. His ruling temporarily placed the entire $100 million-plus bridge project in limbo.

BCBC argued that Iveys transportation director  John Cooper, who heads up the Alabama Department of Transportation  acted in bad faith during negotiations with them ahead of rewarding a contract to the Scott Bridge Co. for the Gulf Shores project.

BCBC, about one year ago, pushed for Cooper to consider an alternative proposal from them that would have prohibited new bridge construction for about 50 years, but also included waiving toll fees for county residents. After Cooper rejected their proposal, the company sued the director in his official capacity as ALDOTs director.

Pool, following a seven-day bench trial, ordered the project be halted and derisively called it the Cooper bridge. The Supreme Court, in reversing Pools decision, said Cooper enjoys state constitutional protection that gives him  as a state agency director  absolute immunity from being sued.

Cooper, during testimony in Montgomery, claimed that he had no direct conversations with the governor over his final decision to pursue the Gulf Shores bridge project. He instead communicated chiefly with Iveys former and current chiefs of staff.

The conversations with Iveys chiefs of staff were the heart of an executive privilege case that was also before the Supreme Court. The issue focused on whether text messages and other communications between Cooper and the chiefs of staff  Jo Bonner and Liz Fillmore  should be shielded from public viewing.

The Court, in its ruling Friday, determined that since Pool did not have jurisdiction based on State immunity, his previous order for Cooper to produce the intraoffice communications was moot.
This story is republished with permission from The Birmingham Times

Alabama State Rep. Juandalynn Givan, (D-Birmingham) will lead a group of leaders during a reception Thursday in Washington D.C. as Vice President Kamala Harris hosts Black women elected officials from across the nation.

Harris in collaboration with the National Organization of Black Elected Legislative (NOBEL) Women and Higher Heights Leadership Fund will host the event at the Vice Presidents residence to recognize the impact of Black women in shaping democracy in their communities and across the country.

Givan, who serves Alabama House of Representatives, District 60, is National President of NOBEL Women.

We are honored to host this reception alongside Vice President Kamala Harris and Higher Heights for America, to acknowledge the remarkable achievements of Black women elected executives, legislators, and those serving in judicial capacities, Givan said. Their contributions to our society have been instrumental in shaping a more inclusive and equitable nation.

The reception will feature remarks from Black women leaders and acknowledge those who have achieved milestones in their political careers and recognize their outstanding leadership and dedication to public service.

The resilience and tenacity of Black women are without measure, Givan said. We are the metal rivets that hold together American democracy. Since the days of Sojourner Truth and Harriet Tubman to Ida B. Wells-Barnett and Mary McLeod Bethune we are the hopes and dreams of the enslave people brought to this country in the year 1619. Since that time, Black women have fought tirelessly for freedom and equality not just for ourselves but for others in and around our communities, she said. From Dorothy Irene Height to Shirley Chisholm, no one can argue that Black women have been the foundation of progressive and necessary change in our nation.

NOBEL is more than 380 black women strong and like our acronym sounds, noble, distinguished, benevolent, dignified, Givan said.  We served as a catalyst to provide economic and social justice for all classes and races of people. We work actively to increase the number of Black women in elected office, and we are purposed to see this network of women grow. With partners in the fight such as Higher Heights for America, we will surpass this goal.

The National Organization of Black Elected Legislative (NOBEL) Women is a non-profit, non-partisan organization primarily composed of current and former black women legislators as well as many appointed officials. For more visit http://nobelwomen.org.

Higher Heights is the leading national organization exclusively dedicated to advancing Black womens political power by ensuring they have the tools to engage, advocate and lead in their personal and professional communities. For more visit: www.higherheightsleadershipfund.org
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This is an opinion column.

Libraries are under assault. In Prattville and Huntsville and Ozark and Shelby County and all over.

Theyre coming for your library, too. I promise they are.

Ozark Mayor Mark Blankenship is the latest. He has demanded the Ozark-Dale County Library remove books with LGBTQ content from the young adult section. He took to social media over the weekend after librarians  librarians are angels, if you do not know  did not rush to kiss his ring.

We have been trying to remove this trash from the kids section of our library for several months, the mayor posted on Facebook.

Blankenship urged people to ask city and county officials to punish the libraries. The library board called a special meeting for Wednesday to deal with it.

If we cut the funding they will be closed and our children will not be exposed to this mess, he wrote.

Of course Blankenship followed that post up with some God.

And do not tell me that the Lords word is flawed by man, he posted. In reality it is more reliable today than ever due to the discovery of the Dead Sea Scrolls. His word is perfect and can be trusted.

OK. Hes a theologian, too. Lots of them out there these days.

Intolerance in the name of religion is pushing the effort to purge libraries. Kay Kelley, a board member for the North Shelby Library District, saw it when groups protested a small gay pride month display at the library in June. Protesters there boldly claimed to speak for God.

Kelley described an exchange with one such woman:

I said I understand you can control what your children read, but you cannot control what (someone else) lets her children read.

The woman disagreed.

She said, Yes, I can, because God has told me to.

It all reverts back to religion, Kelley said. We had people who said, We dont care what the First Amendment says, because our job in this world is to make sure everyone goes to heaven. Its all religion.

Not religious freedom. Just my-way-or-highway-to-hell religion. Taliban stuff.

Its nuts that this purging movement is sweeping this state and the country. Its horrifying how it is modeled after Moms for Liberty, a Florida-based group that has grown to mammoth proportions by co-opting the name of liberty itself.

Those moms and their followers should read William Goldmans The Princess Bride, with the immortal words of Inigo Montoya:

You keep using that word. I do not think it means what you think it means.

Or maybe they should just start with the dictionary, unless they find Merriam-Webster somehow offensive.

That book defines liberty in these ways:

A: the quality or state of being free.

B: the power to do as one pleases.

C: freedom from physical restraint.

D: freedom from arbitrary or despotic control.

E: the positive enjoyment of various social, political, or economic rights and privileges.

F: the power of choice.

Not a single word about barring others from reading things that scare you. It is not about limiting thought. It is not about thinking you alone are right, regardless of what the Dead Sea Scrolls may or may not prove.

Inconceivable.

It is fitting, I suppose, that would-be censors are rightly represented as the bad guys in literature and cinema throughout history. Fahrenheit 451. 1984. Harry Potter. Footloose. All the greats.

Of course they hate it.

But its not funny. Because these groups are coming for your thoughts.

Librarians across this country work under guidelines to support the intellectual freedom of everybody in the community.

Their boards are supposed to be there to defend that freedom. And now they find themselves under assault from pandering politicians, from people who have never set foot in their libraries before, and from wound-up protestors who call them godless groomers for stocking books.

Its time to take a stand for libraries, and librarians. Tell your public officials to stand for the liberation of ideas, for intellectual freedom. For real liberty.

Because theyll be coming. To a library near you.

John Archibald is a two-time Pulitzer winner at AL.com.
A Birmingham City Schools principal placed on administrative leave after the district opened an investigation into test score irregularities is asking a court to let her return to work.

Attorneys for Wilkerson Middle School Principal Jennifer Love Lott asked a Jefferson County Circuit Court for a temporary restraining order against her suspension and allow her to continue to serve as principal until the investigation is complete.

According to documents in Lotts court filing, she was notified Aug. 4 that she was being placed on administrative leave with pay pending an investigation and she was to stay away from board property without express permission. Lott was also told to turn over her keys, iPad and other equipment owned by the district.

Birmingham City Schools did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

In her complaint, Lott claims the districts legal counsel called her in late July to tell her an investigation was being opened into testing procedures at Oliver Elementary during the time she was principal from 2018 through 2022.

The legal counsel only stated that some anonymous teacher was dissatisfied with the testing scores at Oliver as the reason for the investigation, according to Lotts complaint.

Lott alleges her suspension is due to personal vendettas that Oliver Elementary staff have because Olivers test scores fell after she left Oliver to become Wilkerson Middle Schools principal at the start of the 2022-23 school year.

Test scores dropped precipitously at Oliver Elementary after Lott left, while Wilkerson Middle Schools scores rose the year Lott became principal there.

Wilkerson Middle had the greatest percentage-point increase in math of all schools statewide. Oliver Elementary had the greatest percentage-point drop in math of all schools statewide.

From May 2022 to May 2023, Oliver Elementary proficiency levels shifted from:

48% to 28% in English language arts,

39% to 10% in math, and

63% to 12% in science.

From May 2022 to May 2023, Wilkerson Middle proficiency levels shifted from:

22% to 33% in English language arts,

2% to 38% in math, and

10% to 15% in science.

Lott claims the special relationships that exist between staff at Oliver Elementary and Birmingham City Schools leaders heavily contributed to the hasty and unjustified actions the district took against her.

Lott claims her livelihood has been and will continue to be adversely impacted and suffer immediate and irreparable harm by the suspension. She claims her name, professional reputation, mental well-being have suffered as well.

Lott asks to be reinstated as principal so she can continue to improve the education of those students who are also suffering without the leadership of a proven educator.
A travelers dog has been missing for more than a week at Atlantas Hartsfield-Jackson International after escaping from its carrier onto the vast airfield of the worlds busiest airport.

Paula Rodriguez, who lives in the Dominican Republic, said in a Facebook post that her dog Maia was last seen by Delta Air Lines staff on Aug. 18.

The dog, a chihuahua mix, was placed in the care of Atlanta-based Delta after Rodriguez was denied entry into the United States while traveling from Santo Domingo on a tourist visa. Rodriguez had to stay overnight in an airport detention center, where her dog was not allowed.

After learning Maia was lost, Rodriguez wrote in a Facebook post: I am truly desperate.

She is not just my dog. She is my best friend on earth, she wrote in another social media post.

The dog, which traveled with Rodriguez as a pet in the cabin, was supposed to be returned to her before she boarded a flight back to the Dominican Republic. But according to Delta, Maia escaped her carrier while Delta staff were transporting the dog in an outdoor area of the airport.

Rodriguez had to fly home without knowing what happened to Maia, and later learned that she had gone missing.

Rodriguezs mother flew to Atlanta to help search for the dog, and Delta said it shared information about the dogs escape and granted access to secure areas of the airfield. Her mother was on her way back home Monday, after the fruitless effort to help find Maia. Rodriguez said her health has been compromised by the stress.

Delta said staff have conducted around-the-clock searches of the airfield since Aug. 18, including using night-vision goggles and notifying workers at the airport to be on the lookout for the dog.

Its been 10 days today and Delta needs to keep looking for my dog, Rodriguez said in an interview Monday. I need to know where my dog is. She is out there, and if she is not out there, I want closure. I deserve closure.

Hartsfield-Jackson also has operational teams that inspect the runway and airfield regularly.

At this time they have not encountered the dog, but will continue to remain vigilant should she appear. If she is seen, ATLs staff will attempt to capture her and return her to the airline and her owner, the airport said.

Its possible the dog left the airport grounds. Delta and others trying to help with the search have reached out to area animal shelters and vets to watch for the dog, who is microchipped.

Delta said an internal investigation is underway into the circumstances of exactly how Maia went missing.

Its not the first time a dog has gotten lost at Hartsfield-Jackson. In 2019, a prize-winning show dog went missing at the Atlanta airport. That dog was reunited with her owner days later after being spotted in an airfield thicket.

2023 The Atlanta Journal-Constitution. Visit at ajc.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
A former Alabama jail officer has been indicted on federal charges that he provided an inmate with cigarettes.

Mario Avery, 43, is charged conspiring to provide contraband to an inmate in prison, bribery, and providing contraband to a federal inmate, according to an announcement Tuesday by the Middle District of Alabama U.S. Attorneys Office and the U.S. Marshals Service.

He was employed at the Montgomery County Detention Center at the time of the alleged crimes.

Avery was arrested Monday and is scheduled to make his first court appearance this afternoon.

According to the indictment, Avery conspired with a federal inmate being held in the Montgomerys county jail, identified only as P.D. as well as a Montgomery resident, identified only as O.C.

In November 2022, records state, Avery met with someone in Montgomery to take delivery of the prohibited items  cigarettes- to be smuggled into the Montgomery County Jail to P.D. That same month, he received payment - $1,110 - from an account belonging to O.C. to provide the items to P.D.

The cigarettes were delivered to the inmate that month, authorities said.

The U.S. Marshals Service investigated the case, with assistance from the Montgomery County Sheriffs Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Eric Counts is prosecuting the case.

If convicted on all three counts of the indictment, Avery faces a maximum sentence of 15 years in prison.
New York street interviews on Chinese traditions

(People's Daily App) 15:21, August 29, 2023

New York is one of the most diverse cities in the world, a melting pot of cultures from across the globe. Join us for this episode of 'Global Voices on Chinese Traditions', as we tour the streets of New York City, meeting the locals and finding out what they know about traditional Chinese culture. From food to history, and language, the Big Apple shares its perspective on China.

(Video source: International Channel Shanghai)

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
(Photo : Photo by Scott Olson/Getty Images)

CHICAGO, ILLINOIS - JANUARY 24: Chicago mayoral candidate and Cook County commissioner Brandon Johnson speaks during a press conference outside of City Hall to explain his proposed agenda if elected mayor on January 24, 2023 in Chicago, Illinois. The Chicago mayoral election will be held on February 28.

Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson faces criticism after filing a lawsuit against Kia and Hyundai, alleging that their vehicles lacked adequate anti-theft measures, contributing to a significant rise in auto thefts.

Critics, such as Democratic Alderman Raymond Lopez, have criticized the move as a misguided attempt to shift responsibility away from the city's crime problem and onto automobile manufacturers, as per Fox news.

Chicago Mayor's Lawsuit Against Kia and Hyundai Draws Criticism

Alderman Lopez ridiculed Mayor Johnson's lawsuit during a recent appearance on "Fox & Friends," describing it as a strategy from the "socialist playbook." Lopez argued that while auto-related crimes have increased in Chicago, attributing the problem solely to car manufacturers overlooks the more fundamental causes.

Lopez noted that auto burglaries have increased significantly, with a 104% increase over the previous year and a staggering 234% increase over the past two years.

He refuted that automobiles are solely responsible for these statistics, emphasizing that the real problem rests with criminals who take advantage of the city's lax policies and lenient legal system.

Johnson's lawsuit claims that between 2011 and 2022, Kia and Hyundai omitted "industry-standard engine immobilizers" from specific vehicle models, contributing to the rise in crime.

According to the mayor, this omission has negatively affected Chicago residents, particularly those with limited transportation options.

Critics, such as Lopez, contend that the lawsuit disregards the reality of criminals exploiting opportunities and the city's approach to crime.

Lopez is also critical of the city's response to the auto theft problem. He mentions that distributing steering wheel locks to citizens, similar to "The Club," may provide a transient solution but does not address the underlying issue.

Lopez argues that Chicago's policies should focus on holding chronic offenders accountable instead of blaming automakers. The alderman believes that Johnson's symbolic approach to addressing the fundamental causes of crime needs to be revised.

He argues that attributing the increase in auto thefts solely to vehicle manufacturers obscures the more complex issues surrounding crime, social policies, and the legal system.

This lawsuit's controversy highlights Chicago's broader discussions on crime and governance, according to Car Scoops.

Read Also: Nvidia Warns Chip Curbs Would Risk US Chipmakers' Competitiveness in China

From Samuel Paty Incident to Broader Societal Tensions

The city has struggled with crime-related issues for years, and the dialogue intensified after the beheading of teacher Samuel Paty in 2020, which drew attention to societal tensions. Critics, including Lopez, assert that the city's leadership, policies, and broader social dynamics are also implicated in the crime problem.

While attempting to address auto theft, the lawsuit against Kia and Hyundai has become the focal point of the Chicago crime debate.

As the litigation progresses and discussions continue, the city must combat crime and navigate the intricate web of factors that contribute to its persistence.

The controversy surrounding Mayor Johnson's lawsuit reflects the ongoing struggle to find comprehensive solutions to Chicago's complex crime and safety problems, CBS Chicago via MSN reported.

Related Article: China's EV Industry Slows Down, Affecting Nvidia's Automotive Business

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A lot has changed in Birmingham over the last two decades but one thing that has remained consistent is City Councilor Valerie Abbott, who was first elected to represent District 3 in 2001.

Over the years Abbott has been an outspoken advocate for the issues that matter to her.

Most recently, she publicly opposed a 2024 budget draft from Mayor Randall Woodfin, saying it was not addressing the things that we [the council] complained about over and over and over and over while she slapped a conference table in agitation as seen in a video published by AL.com in late June.

While Abbott told the Lede in this weeks Q&A that she was overall pleased with the new version of the budget that was passed, she still thinks Birminghams money could be better spent than it is now.

This interview has been edited and condensed for length and clarity.
Alabama State Rep. David Cole of Madison was arrested Tuesday on a charge of voting at multiple or unauthorized locations.

Cole, 52, was booked into the Madison County jail Tuesday afternoon on the charge, which is a Class C felony.

Cole was charged with violating Code of Alabama 17-17-28, which says, Any person who knowingly presents false identification in order to vote at a polling place where he or she otherwise would not be qualified to vote, or who knowingly votes at a polling place where he or she has not been authorized to vote, or who knowingly votes at more than one polling place in the same election on the same day shall be guilty, upon conviction, of a Class C felony.

State Rep. David Cole has been arrested for voting in a district where he did not live. pic.twitter.com/Wp8vvXxPzh  Kyle Whitmire (@WarOnDumb) August 29, 2023

Amanda Priest, communications director for Attorney General Steve Marshall, said the attorney general is prosecuting the case.

Cole was elected to the Legislature in November, representing District 10. But AL.coms Kyle Whitmire reported in July that Cole lived in District 4.

In 2020, Coles primary opponent Anson Knowles complained to Alabama Republican Party officials that Cole had not resided in the district for a year prior to the election, as required by state law. The party left Cole on the ballot, but removed Knowles for having been involved with the Libertarian Party.

In the general election, Cole defeated Democrat Marilyn Lands and Libertarian Elijah Boyd to win the seat. Boyd later contested Coles victory in court.

Earlier this year, the Alabama Supreme Court ruled that the Alabama Legislature would have to determine whether Cole was qualified to hold the office.The Legislature completed its regular session and a subsequent special session without taking action on Coles qualification for office.

If found guilty of the felony charge, Cole would automatically lose his seat in the Alabama House.

Alabama House Speaker Nathaniel Ledbetter, R-Rainsville, issued a statement about Coles arrest.

This afternoon, the Speakers Office became aware of David Coles arrest on the charge of fraudvoting at an unauthorized location, Ledbetter said. As this is an ongoing investigation, we are still waiting to learn more details as they become available.

In recent years, the Alabama House has prioritized legislation that promotes election integrity, and we believe that any allegation of fraud must be addressed regardless of the party, public official, or candidate involved.

Alabamians may remain confident that their elections are conducted honestly, their votes are cast and counted fairly, and their ballot boxes are secure. Now, it is up to a court of law to determine the validity of the allegations Cole is facing, and I anticipate Alabamas election laws will withstand their true intent.

Kyle Whitmire of AL.com contributed to this report. This is a developing story and will be updated.
The former Navy SEAL who has said he fired the shots that killed Osama bin Laden is accused of assaulting a Frisco hotel security officer while intoxicated and calling the officer a racial slur, according to a police report obtained by The Dallas Morning News.

Robert J. ONeill, 47, was arrested Wednesday and released on bond the same day. Frisco police said he faces a Class A misdemeanor charge of assault causing bodily injury and a Class C misdemeanor charge of public intoxication. Jail records list only the assault charge.

ONeill declined to comment when reached by phone Monday. On Sunday, he expressed gratitude for support in a post after the news of his arrest broke Friday. ONeill, who wrote a memoir about his military service and hosts a podcast, has more than 600k followers on X, formerly known as Twitter.

Social media posts show ONeill, listed as a Tennessee resident in jail records, was in Frisco on Tuesday to record a podcast at a cigar lounge. Frisco is a city about 30 miles north of Dallas.

According to the police report, Frisco police responded to the Omni Frisco Hotel at The Star at 11 Cowboys Way about 12 a.m. The hotels night manager reported to police that an intoxicated man assaulted a loss prevention officer who was escorting him to his room, the report said. The Omni hotels executive team did not immediately respond to request for comment.

Hotel staff said a guest reported that another guest was asleep at the bar. Staff offered to use a wheelchair to get the guest, later identified as ONeill, to his room. ONeill refused the wheelchair, the report said, and a security officer offered to help him to his room.

According to the report, the officer assisted ONeill to the elevator as they headed to the fifth floor. A short time later, the officer radioed that he was assaulted by ONeill at his room door, the report says.

The security officer told police ONeill hit him in the chest and he needed medical attention. The security officer, who was not identified, told police he felt pain on his chest from being palm struck by ONeill.

A police officer observed redness on the security officers chest where he said he was hit.

After the security officer was cleared by medics, he told police he was helping a belligerent ONeill and offered to open his room door since ONeill was trying to unlock it with a credit card, the report said. ONeill then turned and struck the officer in the chest with his right palm and called him a f---ing N-word, according to the report.

According to the police report, the officer stepped back and said, I cant believe you just hit me.

ONeill reportedly repeated the officers words in a mocking manner. The security guard called over his radio to police at that time, the report said.

Police officers located ONeill attempting to unlock a hotel room with a credit card. ONeill was unstable on his feet, smelled strongly of alcohol and his eyes were red and glassy, police said in the report.

When an officer asked ONeill what happened that night, he refused to answer, the report said, and repeatedly asked we good? and said he was just trying to go home.

He refused to answer how much he had to drink, police said.

When the officer asked ONeill if he knew where he was, ONeill said Addison. Addison is a city about 14 miles south of Frisco.

Believing ONeill was a danger to himself and to others, police arrested him, the report said.

ONeill, originally from Montana, first said in 2014 that he fired the shots that killed bin Laden in 2011. The U.S. government has neither confirmed nor denied the account.

In 2016, prosecutors in Montana dropped a DUI charge against the former SEAL Team 6 member, who has received two Silver Stars, four Bronze Stars and a Joint Service Commendation Medal. Both sides stipulated that the charge stemmed from prescription medication he used to treat a condition connected to his military service, the Montana Standard reported.

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2023 The Dallas Morning News. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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In this file photo, former Navy SEAL Robert ONeill attends the 2015 Salute To Heroes Service gala to benefit The National Foundation For Military Family Support in Los Angeles. (Jason Merritt/NFMFS/Getty Images/TNS)
San Franciscos police union says a city bakery chain has a bigoted policy of not serving uniformed cops.

The San Francisco Police Officers Association wrote in a social media post last week that Reems California will not serve anyone armed and in uniform and that includes members of the U.S. Military. The union is demanding that the chain own its policy.

Reems says, however, its policy isnt against serving armed police officers. Its against allowing guns inside its businesses.

The union tweeted: We are not asking Reems or any business with a bigoted policy to serve our officers. Were asking them to own their discriminatory policy & and put up a sign so we know not to spend money in your establishment  on or off duty.

Reems said in a statement to SFGate that its policy is to keep its employees safe by keeping guns outside of its businesses.

Reems has a deep commitment to uplifting social and racial justice in our communities, the statement said. This includes fostering an environment of safety for our staff and customers. In a time of increased gun violence  particularly impacting people of color, youth, and queer people  we believe that maintaining a strict policy of prohibiting guns in our restaurant keeps us safer.

The restaurant chain and the union didnt immediately respond to The Times requests for comment.

The president of the union, Tracy McCray, disputed Reems statement in an email to SFGATE, writing that the bakery prohibited people armed in a uniform.

That is not our interpretation of their policy. That is exactly what they said their policy was. That is what their employee told our officer, McCray wrote. And this is our point, if youre going to have policies that discriminate against one group of people, then own it, post it publicly, and let your potential customers make the decision that best reflects their values.

There have been other incidents in recent years when a San Francisco business has denied service to armed police officers.

Earlier this year, an employee at Pizza Squared in San Francisco told multiple police officers they werent welcome at the pizza shop, according to a statement from the business on Twitter. The cashier was fired; the store told him he was out of line.

In December 2021, the owners of Hilda and Jesse restaurant in San Francisco apologized after asking three officers to leave because they were uncomfortable with the presence of their multiple weapons, according to a social media post.

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2023 Los Angeles Times. Visit at latimes.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
Winn-Dixie pharmacy customers will have their prescriptions moved to two major retail chains ahead of a planned merger with German-based grocer Aldi.

Prescriptions managed by Winn-Dixie will be transferred to CVS and Walgreens in the coming months. There is no specific date for the transfer but Meredith Hurley, senior director of communications for Winn-Dixie parent company Southeastern Grocers, told the Orlando Sentinel customers will receive sufficient advance notice.

We are working closely with CVS Pharmacy and Walgreens to ensure that our customers prescriptions are handled carefully and confidentially and that there wont be any delay in service, Hurley said.

READ MORE: Aldis purchase of Winn-Dixie, Harveys will impact 400 stores, 39 in Alabama

Aldi announced earlier this month it was purchasing some 400 Winn-Dixie and Harveys Supermarket stores covering Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana and Mississippi. Some of the stores will be converted to Aldis locations while others will continue to operate as Winn-Dixie and Harveys. The locations that will be changed have not been announced.

Aldis, however, does not operate pharmacies.

Aldi currently operates its 26th regional headquarters and distribution center in Loxley with plans to open 20 new Aldi-brand stores in the Southeast by the end of the year. According to its website, the firm currently operates 40 stores in Alabama.
A north Alabama teacher was arrested Monday after authorities say she was intoxicated on school grounds.

Melissa Ann Harris, 49, of Fort Payne, was arrested and charged with public intoxication, possession of alcohol on school grounds and possession of a controlled substance, Fort Payne police said Monday.

Officials with the Fort Payne school system contacted police Monday to report a suspicion of an intoxicated teacher, authorities said.

A school resource officer responded to the unidentified school and arrested Harris after speaking with her, police said.

Harris was also found with a prescription medication that she did not have a prescription for, according to authorities.

Harris was taken to the Fort Payne City Jail and then transferred to the DeKalb County jail, where she was being held pending bond as of late Monday afternoon, police said.
An Alabama man convicted of murder as a juvenile failed to appear in court Monday to answer a rape charge, leading a Houston County judge to issue a warrant for his arrest and list him as a fugitive.

Ralph Coleman, 22, of Dothan, missed his Monday court date before Houston County Judge Kevin Moulton, reported WDHN.

Coleman, who was convicted as a juvenile for a 2016 homicide in Dothan, allegedly raped a 19-year-old woman at a Dothan motel in April 2022, the network reported.

Coleman was released on the murder charge when he was 21 years old.

The Dothan man also ran from the law when police sought to arrest him shortly after the rape.

He was arrested in Florida in May before being brought back to Houston County to face the charge.

Anyone with knowledge of Colemans whereabouts was urged to call authorities.
A teenager died Monday at UAB Hospital after being shot over the weekend in Phenix City.

The victim was identified as 18-year-old Darius Underwood, Russell County Coroner Arthur Sumbry told WRBL.

Underwood died late Monday morning of a gunshot wound, Sumbry said.

The teens body was being sent to the Alabama Department of Forensic Science for an autopsy.

Phenix City police and the coroners office are investigating the Sunday shooting.
The UNC-Chapel Hill shooting happened on Monday, Aug. 28, leading to the death of one of the faculty members.

Because of this, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill was forced to conduct an hours-long lockdown as the police searched for the suspect.

UNC-Chapel Hill Shooting: Shooter's Motive Puzzles Police

According to the Associated Press's latest report, police authorities were able to take the shooter into custody an hour and a half after the gunshot was reported.

The identities of the suspect and victim were not immediately announced. As of writing, police officials haven't confirmed if the shooter and faculty member knew each other.

Because of a lack of information, the UNC police are still puzzled by the shooter's main motive. Aside from this, the weapon used by the criminal also hasn't been found yet.

"We are looking for a firearm. It is too early to determine if the firearm was legally obtained," said UNC Police Chief Brian James.

However, the police chief is optimistic that capturing the suspect can give them an opportunity to solve the latest shooting in UNC-Chapel Hill.

The official said that they wanted to learn from this shooting incident. He added that they will do their best to ensure that this kind of crime will not happen again on the University of Carolina campus.

Read Also: Jacksonville Sheriff TK Waters Reveals Identity of Gunman, Says Shooter Bought Guns Legally Earlier This Year

Who is the UNC-Chapel Hill Shooter?

WRAL News reported that the UNC-Chapel Hill shooting suspect is Tailei Qi, a doctoral student at the university.

The PhD student had been at the UNC for more than a year before the incident happened. One of the shooter's former classmates was surprised by his action.

Aiden Scott, a UNC grad student, said that he would have never guessed that Qi would do such a thing.

"I would have never guessed that he would be the kind of person who could possibly be capable of this kind of thing," said Scott.

He added that Tailei was always a quiet student. Scott explained that since Qi is not very good at English, he was probably having a hard time creating a good network at the university.

Despite the language barrier, Scott stated that Tailei was always very nice to him whenever they would talk.

This is why Scott and other people who know Tailei Qi were very shocked by his face in the news about the UNC-Chapel Hill shooting.

Related Article: University of North Carolina Shooting: Faculty Member Fatally Shot on Campus, Suspect Under Custody

@ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
Donald Trumps mugshot has traveled around the globe about 8,000 times since it was released last Thursday evening. It might just be the shot heard around the world -- unless arrogant globalists -- homegrown and afar -- are as deaf as they are arrogant. That might be the case.

Lickety-split, The Mugshot is being marketed by Trumps presidential campaign.

The Hill -- a go-to chronicle for DCs inbred political and big government classes -- lacking a sense of irony, declared:

Former President Trump is using his surrender at the Fulton County, Ga., jail Thursday evening, when he became the first U.S. president in history to have his mug shot taken, to raise funds for his 2024 campaign.

Damn straight. Why shouldnt 45 earn some dollars off a gross injustice? Much of the big donor money is going to Ron DeSantis, anyway, who Murdochs cats paw, Fox News, comically claimed won last weeks presidential debate. Gaslighting is en vogue at Fox, evidently.

Then Fox, figuring that its dwindling audience is dumber than dirt, cited a DeSantis poll to claim that lackluster Ron is catching Trump in Iowa. Fox has gone full corporate media with this very unjournalistic assertion.

Trump cashing in on his glowering visage is plain smart. Hes got to have multiple revenue streams to fund his campaign. His lifeblood is small dollar contributions from average folk. Hes also paying some hefty bills for legal defense.

Heres an idea free to the Trump team. They can monetize it if they choose.

Produce Trump is Watching posters featuring his mugshot. Plaster those suckers all over upscale Democrat precincts across the fruited plain. Lets see if totalitarian-bent Democrats are as comfortable with Trump watching as they are with Orwells Big Brother watching. I tend to doubt it. Trump isnt interested in crushing liberties and shoving wokeness down throats. Watchful Donald seeks justice, including the retributive sort -- and he should. Bad hombre Democrats should quake.

Bubble-dwelling, smug progressives are aghast that Trumps support isnt wavering as indictments roll in like bags of nose candy when Hunter is at the White House. Democrats phony-baloney charges are hardening Trumps support and may wind up boosting it. An indictment or two more, and Trump might just coast to victory next year, causing D.C. elites to flee to Canada, where Justin Trudeau is pushing his Great White Cuba initiative.

The lawfare being waged against Trump isnt resonating with tens upon tens of millions of decent, fair-minded Americans. Its getting their hackles up. But the dispensers of sham justice arent yet in panic mode about the rabbles wariness. Democrats figure that if they hustle and destroy their nemesis and smash the movement he leads, theyll achieve their dream before the manure really hits the fan. Their dream? Ruling the nation unchallenged, with an ungloved iron fist as need arises.

Trump haters, including neocons, RINOs, and the likes of Blimpo the Clown, AKA, Chris Christe, are all-in on Bolivia-style or Venezuela-style justice, as long as fake charges, mountainous court costs, and professional ruin doesnt dog them.

But a magic moment is happening. Americas elite lowlifes are smoking themselves out. A public division is occurring between those who love liberty and those who embrace some form and measure of tyranny. Even some conventional libs like RFK, Jr., Naomi Wolf, Alan Dershowitz, and Tulsi Gabbard (a fallen away D) recognize the peril.

In Tucker Carlsons debate night interview with Trump -- 260 million views as of this writing -- he asked 45 if he expects a civil war. Trump pretty much dodged, as he should. But civil war, in ebbs and flows, has been upon us since the 60s.

The political and ideological division occurring, along with folk migrating out of blue to red states and, to a lesser extent, vice versa, are aspects of war. The conflict is moving toward culmination.

Dont expect Johnny Reb to square off against Billy Yank in cornfields in the middle of nowhere, a la the Civil War. The new Confederacy -- Democrats, globalists, and the Left -- are waging asymmetric war on traditional America. They arent seeking independence, but conquest. The warfare theyre waging is being fought high and low and in every corner of American life.

Front and center, it's a war against Trump and half or better of America. Ideologues are culprits, yes, but a criminal political and bureaucratic class are ringleaders. As Scott Adams (he of Dilbert fame) asserted at X:

Im no lawyer, but the entire Democrat leadership looks like a criminal conspiracy to me, from the Russia collusion hoax to the laptop hoax to the J6 insurrection hoax to the find votes hoax to Ukraine to Hunter to the DOJ to four bull[sheet] indictments and the media puppets. What is RICO for?

Good question. If Trump captures the GOP nomination -- the odds are well beyond even -- and manages, through the Almightys grace, to beat the cheat and become 47, then his attorney general -- in addition to cleaning house at DoJ -- needs to pursue racketeering charges against the many miscreants who are subverting the law and our constitutional rights. Haul them into courts by the busload, if required.

The FBI, defense department, and intelligence agencies need to be purged of any and all who have little or no regard for liberty who hourly seek to trample us underfoot pursuing cold power. Vivek Ramaswamy is right to declare that the nation needs a revolution, not reform that just moves furniture around the room.

The enemies of liberty -- lets not be fooled by their 1984 inspired rhetoric that theyre fightin for democracy and our rights -- arent very skilled or gifted, and many of them arent that bright, their pretenses notwithstanding. Theyre rotted souls. What they possess is a gnawing hunger to pile up wealth and power -- at our expense.

For anyone who is literate and reads history, this crop of predators isnt different from predators throughout history, who lorded over clans, tribes, kingdoms, empires, Reichs, or peoples republics. The names and packaging change, but at core, nothing else. What they bring -- whatever their insistent promises and disclaimers -- is ruin. Finally, tyrants ruin, and the nascent tyrants all around us are jump-starting the ruin.

Ask Ukrainians about their estimated 350,000 dead compatriots, thanks to a war pushed by U.S. elites hellbent on waylaying Russia. How about the wide-open southern border, where truckloads of fentanyl stream in? Many tens of thousands are dead due to fentanyl overdoses. How about filthy, crime-ridden Democrat-run cities? How about babies aborted right up to birth and kids having their bodies mutilated because deluded, godless elites fancy that gender is fluid?

Trumps scowling face is his war face. The new confederates -- the rebels who are toiling to subvert the nations founding principles and rob us of our rights -- must go down in flames. To trot out the old cliche, were at a critical crossroads. Its no overstatement to suggest that at this pivotal moment, as Trump goes, so go we, so goes our freedom. 2024 approaches rapidly. Its high time we put on our war faces, too.

J. Robert Smith can be found regularly at Gab @JRobertSmith. He also blogs occasionally at Flyover . Hes returned to Twitter. His Twitter handle is @JRobertSmith1.

Image: Fulton County Sherrif's Office
Recently a passionately committed Donald Trump supporter asked me who I would back in 2024 and why are so many pundits claiming that Trump cannot win the general election. In my reply I wrote that while I like both DeSantis and Trump, I will enthusiastically support whoever wins the nomination. My answer to the second part of the question is yes, Trump can win. But he needs to recognize reality and have the strategy in place for an exceedingly difficult election due to the unknown repercussions of the despicable lawfare being waged against him as well as the political and electoral landscape in present-day America. Thus far there has been no indication that the Trump campaign or the Republican National Committee understands or has developed any strategy to win the general election.

The ongoing lawfare against Trump will, in all likelihood, spawn a number of uncontrollable factors. Among them will be Trumps ability to campaign and the necessity of spending massive sums of campaign cash on legal expenses instead of opposing the Democrat nominee. Additionally, the outcomes of the public trials that will be held prior to the election could potentially result in dramatic negative reactions by the electorate directed towards Trump.

Therefore, the Republican primary voter needs to know what will be the Trump campaign and the Republican National Committee strategy if voter sentiment turns markedly against him and/or multiple states arbitrarily and unconstitutionally attempt to disqualify Trump from their ballots based on the insurrection clause of the 14th Amendment.

The political and electoral landscape facing Donald Trump can be broken down into four component parts: 1) the impact of changing voter demographics, 2) the perception of Trump by the voters, 3) the unique status of five battleground states, and 4) the high probability that Joe Biden, due to rapidly deteriorating health and mounting scandals, will drop out of the race,

The Brookings Institution recently published an article highlighting how the younger voters (Millennials and Generation Z) are poised to upend American politics. In 2024 they will account for over half of the total population and nearly half of all registered voters. The Democrats have long focused on registering and engaging this voting bloc while the Republicans have essentially ignored them.

In the 2022 mid-terms younger voters backed Democrat Senate and House candidates by a 57-40% margin. Senator John Fetterman, despite being noticeably incapacitated from a stroke, won in Pennsylvania because 63% of 18-44-year-olds voted for him.

Trump has never been viewed favorably by this voting bloc. Even in the pre-pandemic year of 2019 when the economy was soaring, his favorability rating among voters 18-34 years-old was just 37%. At present younger voters are unhappy with Biden and still have an extraordinarily low favorable (23%) opinion of Trump.

However, there is also ample evidence that a significant segment of younger voters are beginning to shift rightward and are open to conservative principles after experiencing the failures of Democrat Party governance. Trump and the Republicans must exploit that opening if he is to win.

In 2016, Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump each won 88% of the vote of their respective parties, the deciding factor -- Trump won Independents by a 46-42% margin. In 2020 Biden and Trump each won 94% of the vote of their respective parties, the deciding factor -- Biden won Independents by a 54-41% margin.

However, per a poll published on August 15, 2023, Independents believe by a 57-37% margin that Trump should be prosecuted for attempting to overturn the results of the 2020 election. Further, 63% of Independents stated that the trials should take place before the election. And 53% believe he is guilty of the alleged crimes in the election subversion indictment.

Trump must win among Independents in 2024 and it appears that the indictments against him weigh heavily on this vital voting bloc. Therefore, how well Trump and his team convince the electorate of his innocence as well as the speciousness of the charges and malevolence of the Justice Department may determine how Independents vote in 2024.

Over the past twenty years due to demographic changes, population shifts, and new voting patterns, twenty states and the District of Columbia, representing 233 electoral votes, are currently Democrat strongholds and 25 states, representing 232 electoral votes, are currently Republican strongholds. Thus, the 2024 election will again be decided by whoever wins at least three of the following battleground states: Arizona, Georgia, Michigan, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin.

In 2016, Trump won all five and in 2020, Biden won all five. At present neither Trump nor Biden are popular as nearly 63% of registered voters in the battleground states say they would prefer to back a centrist third-party candidate if the election features a rematch between Biden and Trump.

Further, the results of the 2022 mid-term elections may portend an ominous outcome for Donald Trump. All five battleground states held gubernatorial elections in 2022, all five candidates that Trump endorsed and campaigned for lost their elections.

However, a July 2023 poll suggests that as long as Biden stays in the race, and faces any third party challenger, Trump could conceivably win 2-3 battleground states.

Accordingly, the Democrats are well aware that Donald Trumps best chance to win in 2024 is to run against Joe Biden who, like Trump, is also currently saddled with an abysmal 31% national favorability rating. Thus, the party hierarchy is growing increasingly concerned about Joe Bidens electability due to obvious failing health and ongoing revelations of egregious potential criminality that have been and will continue to be exposed.

There can be little doubt that within the corridors of the Democrat Establishment conversations are presently taking place about what to do with Kamala Harris and Bidens exit from the race but not the presidency. The bottom line: it is highly unlikely that Joe Biden will be the Democrat nominee for president.

The Democrats have until their convention in August of 2024 to choreograph Bidens exit. By doing so they recast the campaign heavily in their favor as they would still have Trump to pillory, the Republicans would have wasted vast sums of campaign funds on opposing Biden, and the Democrats would have a new face of their campaign to promote without the baggage that defending Biden would entail.

In order to win in 2024, Trump, his campaign, and his hand-picked Chairman of the Republican National Committee, Ronna McDaniel, must conceive and execute a bold strategy to 1) address the factors that alienate younger voters who at present are not irrevocably lost to the Democrats, and 2) focus on the winning over independent voters. They also need to assume that Joe Biden will, in all probability, not be the opponent and be prepared to adjust the campaign accordingly.

The Trump campaign and the RNC must also singlemindedly address and promote mail-in voting, ballot harvesting, early voting, and precinct by precinct oversight in the battleground states.

The importance of the 2024 election cannot be overstated. If this nation is controlled for another four to eight years by a political party that hates America there will be no turning back. Thus, the question of whether Trump can win the general election is one that has to be dispassionately considered by both Donald Trump and Republican primary voters.

Image: North Charleston
Leftist ignorance strikes again, and consequently we have to suffer.

You know, when George Orwell authored the infamous slogans of Oceanias Party, he purposefully worded them to be the most obnoxiously glaring pieces of propaganda. The juxtaposed terms were in fact opposites, and entirely oxymoronic; war is not peaceful, freedom is not slavery, and ignorance is not strength.

Well, looks like Colorado school administrators and teachers didnt get the memo, and instead, gorged on regime disinformation; its almost like they consider themselves in the bulking phase for an upcoming strength (ignorance) competition. Being uneducated, uninformed, obtuse, and illiterate, are only strengths if youre a leftist.

The problem started when Jaiden, a 12-year-old student at The Vanguard School in Colorado Springs, sported a Gadsden flag patch on his backpack. Apparently, he was removed from class, because of the patchs alleged origins with slavery, and slave trade and the interaction below, between school staff and Jaidens family, shows you (again) just how smugly ignorant and tyrannical these woke leftists are:

Meet 12yo Jaiden who was kicked out of class yesterday in Colorado Springs for having a Gadsden flag patch, which the school claims has "origins with slavery."



The school's director said via email that the patch was "disruptive to the classroom environment."



Receipts in the  pic.twitter.com/qQ8jK1zSpR  Connor Boyack  (@cboyack) August 29, 2023

Ill start out by addressing a paradox most embarrassing  the self-satisfied school employee so confident in her blunder, is holding a meeting in a room under a flag, that actually has closer ties to slavery than the Gadsden flag. The irony! This is not to say Im anti-America, but American slave ships? Yeah, they didnt fly the Gadsden, or the Stars and Bars, they flew the Stars and Stripes; as said by Alan Keyes in an argument against censoring flags:

It's absurd. The American flag, the one we revere, used to fly on slave ships plying the slave trade back and forth[.]

I also just find it utterly absurd that this woman isnt even sure what the proper name of the flag is  its not called the Dont Tread On Me  yet she knows its bad. So, you dont know what its actually called, but you know its a pro-slavery symbol. Got it.

I love that Jaiden is on the verge of complete laughter as his mom schools the administrator over her ignorance, because its all such a joke. These people cant be taken seriously, and even a 12-year-old kid can see it; nothing like a child having to stifle his laughter over your lack of basic knowledge lest he be impolite and bring attention to your sheer idiocy.

The Gadsden flag is named after Christopher Gadsden, a revolutionary soldier who presented the flag to the provincial congress of South Carolina in 1776, and the snake is an adaptation of Benjamin Franklins clarion call Join or Die cartoon; its is not a symbol of slavery, unless you are talking about the slavery under British tyranny... but you know what are?

The Black Lives Matter flag, it represents slavery under and to Marxism.

The Pride flag, or any other perverted adaptation its slavery to leftist queer ideology.

The Ukraine flag, which reminds the little guy that he is a slave to the war machine globalists.

Were [just] following district policy sounds an awful lot like I was just following orders. Will someone tell these jerks to get a new line already?! It wasnt a compelling excuse for the leftist tyrants parroting the line from the witness box in 1945 and 1946, or Adolf Eichmann in 1961, and neither is it today.

Symbols of freedom from tyranny triggers tyrants, go figure.

Update:

For those asking for an update:



- Jaiden decided to go back to school today. With his patch will in place. He said he'd do a sit-in if necessary to protest.



- Two law firms have stepped forward to assist as necessary to fight the viewpoint discrimination.



- Lots of media pic.twitter.com/lEVH6XiLDm  Connor Boyack  (@cboyack) August 29, 2023

Image: Free image, Pixabay license, no attribution required.
Joe Biden never takes responsibility for anything, including policies that harm his fellow Democrats.

So, not surprisingly, he's passed the buck on aid to New York to deal with its migrant crisis.

In response to a pleading letter from New York's Gov. Kathy Hochul, New York got this from His Fraudulency, according to The Hill:

The White House told New York Gov. Kathy Hochul that it cannot send more assistance to the state to help with the influx of migrants, placing the blame on a lack of Congressional action. ... "Without Congressional action, this Administration has been working to build a safe, orderly, and humane immigration system and has worked to identify ways to improve efficiencies and maximize the resources the federal government can provide to communities across the country to support the flow of migrants," a White House spokesperson said in a statement. "We will continue to partner with communities across the country to ensure they can receive the support they need," the spokesperson wrote. "Only Congress can provide additional funding for these efforts, which this Administration has already requested, and only Congress can fix the broken immigration system."

That's swampspeak for "drop dead."

See, Biden can't get along with anyone in Congress enough to pass an aid bill, so New York is out of luck. But cheer up: they can blame Congress instead of Biden, which created the crisis by opening the border to all comers.

It's bee ess.

As Rick Moran at PJMedia notes, there's plenty of things Joe Biden can do to help out his Democrat allies in New York who are taking in so many of his migrants:

Joe Biden could declare an emergency in New York, which would loosen the federal purse strings and make money available to both the city of New York and the state. But Biden is in the middle of a re-election campaign and being identified too closely with a crisis caused by his own lax border policies would not be "good optics," as the political consultants say.

Another thing he could do is reinstate Title 42 permitting the repatriation of migrants on pandemic concerns. That would mesh nicely with his new campaign to claim that COVID is back.

But he won't, because there might be a political cost to him as he "runs" for "re-election" in a race he never won in the first place.

New York is spending itself into bankruptcy to house and feed these incoming foreign nationals, who amount to about 100,000 people as Moran notes. The cost of bedding just one for a month comes to a cool $10,000 cost for the state, as Ed Morrissey at Hot Air writes, citing a New York Post report. The full cost for New York will come to $12 billion over the next three years.

The state is crying out to Biden to pay for these costs, but open-borders Biden is giving them the back of his hand, claiming Republicans are to blame.

The state could resolve this crisis by itself by repealing its laws granting any incoming foreign national a "right" to free housing, which is what's driving these costs. Migrants could pay for their own hotel rooms the same way other visiting foreign nationals do, or the same way Americans do whenever they visit a foreign country. The state might even consider billing them as it would any taxpayer. New York could also scrap its sanctuary state designation, though that probably wouldn't do as much, given that Joe Biden isn't enforcing U.S. immigration laws.

Its crying out to Biden is the act of a toddler calling "mommy" to clean up the mess he's at least partially made. But Biden is nobody's parent.

And now there are public protests as New Yorkers balk at paying that $12-billion migrant bill.

That leaves them a tough choice  repeal its right to shelter laws or go bankrupt, hoping for a federal bailout from a future Democrat Congress.

Somehow, that's not going to end nicely for them. So now they get to complain about Biden even as they vote for him. What an ugly picture that is.

Joe already knows that all the cards are in his hand, and he's going to get away with it.

Image: Screen shot from Fox 5 video via YouTube.
Dirty hands point the fingers.

Just when you thought the regressive Democrats couldn't go lower in their race-to-the-bottom blame game, Chicago's newly elected mayor, Brandon Johnson, comes in and shows you just how ludicrous they can really be. And, to take the old adage "fool me once, shame on you; fool me twice, shame on me" into account, against all odds, I'm sure they'll sink deeper yet.

Reported by Fox News this past weekend:

Democratic Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson's office announced that the city filed the lawsuit against automakers Kia and Hyundai, alleging that both companies have failed to include 'industry-standard engine immobilizers' in several models of vehicles, which results in a 'steep rise' in crime. 'The impact of car theft on Chicago residents can be deeply destabilizing, particularly for low- to middle-income workers who have fewer options for getting to work and taking care of their families,' Johnson said. 'The failure of Kia and Hyundai to install basic auto-theft prevention technology in these models is sheer negligence, and as a result, a citywide and nationwide crime spree around automobile theft has been unfolding right before our eyes.'

Oh, you thought it was the pro-crime policies of the Democrats in Chicago and Illinois that was the problem? No, no, no, no...the rapidly rising trajectory of car theft is because those greedy corporations failed to deliver, not leftist politicians.

Also, the failure of gunmakers to install inoperable triggers is sheer negligence.  Joe Biden Press Release (Parody) (@joebldenpress) August 29, 2023

(The absurdity is completely captured by the parody Joe Biden account commenter.)

Now, where to even begin?

First, Johnson is ignoring one major issue that unravels his whole argument. No one forced these people to buy these cars. Car purchases are consensual transactions, between consumer and dealership, and the role of public safety falls on government, not the private sector. (It's literally in the name.)

Secondly, Kia and Hyundai are two very popular brand choices for Americans across the country, but stories of skyrocketing crime, and in this case car theft, emanate only from a few very specific locales: Los Angeles, San Francisco, Atlanta, Baltimore, Chicago, the list goes on and on. The common denominator is...Democrats in charge. I live outside Huntsville, Alabama, which consistently tops the charts as one of the fastest growing metropolitan areas in the country; I see Kias and Hyundais literally everywhere, but strangely, no one thinks of Huntsville when he thinks of the stolen car epidemics currently plaguing (some) big cities.

"Sheer negligence"? Kind of like euphemizing mobs of teenagers rioting and looting as "large gatherings"? What about posturing for bureaucrats to become the new first responders? Maybe a systemic firing of police officers who engage in conservative political activism when off-duty? Would those things be considered negligent?

Perhaps the Democrat-controlled Legislature and the Democrat governor got it wrong when they championed "bail reform" and subsequently eliminated cash bail? I mean, it's not as if low-life thugs are being released while they await their day in court, and then going on to commit more crimes. Oh, wait...

From the American Bar Association Journal:

An analysis of bail reform in Cook County, Illinois, underplayed the increase in crime that followed, according to a University of Utah study and a review by the Chicago Tribune. ... The Tribune identifies 21 defendants released after bail reform who were later accused of murder[.]

No, rising instances of car theft have nothing to do with local government, or the Democrats who run it, but has everything to do with...capitalism! (You knew it was either going to be that or the other trusty blight, "racism.")

Kia and Hyundai executives clearly aren't living by the Marxian slogan "profits over people," and for that, the poor folk of Chicago have to suffer. If those car companies weren't so devilishly capitalistic, this never would have happened. How dare they manufacture cars with base-model anti-theft features?

I'm sorry, what does Johnson think would happen to the price of Kias and Hyundais if the companies were forced to install high-tech anti-theft technology? In turn, how would that affect the "low- to middle-income workers" for whom Johnson purports to care?

These Democrats are hopelessly unintelligent, completely communist, or both.

Image: YouTube video screen grab.
A senior law professor at New York University Law, Professor Burt Neuborne, who is also the founding director of NYU's Brennan Center, and perhaps ironically a former national legal director of the American Civil Liberties Union, penned a Guest Essay ("There's a Good Chance Trump Will Be Found 'Willfully Blind'"), which is a fascinating example of falsification and post hoc fallacy: he aggressively advances with astonishing mistruths that President Trump is already guilty based solely on accusations, makes from that particular false assumption a false conclusion that the former president has limited legal remedies, and finally tries to sell the general reader on a legal theory that serves the plaintiff (the "government") in its case against the defendant: that President Trump will be found "willfully blind" by using false statements (questioning an election) to create an unlawful benefit (overturning it).

Neuborne then proceeds to directly misrepresent both fact and law by arguing that because the 2020 election is obviously settled and without controversy, it therefore converts a normal and appropriate appeal into a crime that creates a "categorical exception" to protected speech.

He includes in his use of precedent the 1949 case of Giboney v. Empire Storage and Ice Co., from which he quotes: "it rarely has been suggested that the constitutional freedom for speech and press extends its immunity to speech or writing used as an integral part of conduct in violation of a valid criminal statute." This is especially interesting because in Trump v. Biden, the violation of statute by the DNC is precisely what the Wisconsin chief justice pointed out as a core point of law in her dissent. The court majority refused to consult relevant statute law that controls election procedure.

The professor's analysis of Global-Tech Appliances v. SEB is even more of a fascinating exercise in misrepresentation. He states that "Justice Samuel Alito, writing for all but one justice, ruled that proof of willful blindness is the legal equivalent of proving guilty knowledge." But how does one "prove" willful blindness?

According to the NYU law professor, that's easy: "[w]hen a defendant, like Mr. Trump, is on notice of the potential likelihood of an inconvenient fact (Mr. Biden's legitimate victory), and closes his eyes to overwhelming evidence of that fact, the 'willfully blind' defendant is just as guilty as if he actually knew the fact. There's an excellent chance that 12 jurors will find, beyond a reasonable doubt, that Mr. Trump hid from the truth by adopting willful blindness."

The professor engages in obvious circular reasoning, as his argument's fundamental premises need as much proof as the conclusion.

But Neuborne does more than engage in logical error and partisan hyperbole: he deliberately confuses the public, who may be relying on his position as a law professor for their understanding. Perhaps worst of all, he abuses that same position by misleading law students. Without the rights of due process, presumption of innocence, cross-examination, and the right to face accusers, there is no law. Legal defense is what makes the law work. Legal rights are the absolute counter-party to legal complaints. This is a concept and a principle in common law extending back centuries. Unfortunately, much of our legal traditions are being undermined by the very law professors who teach common law in American law schools.

Neuborne's essay is a striking example of a deliberate, willful act to damage the integrity of public understanding. In this regard, it could be viewed as an actionable violation of Bar Association rules of professional conduct against the public to whom a higher duty of professionalism is owed.

Neuborne surely knows this, but his partisan passions, combined with the institutional priorities of NYU and its Brennan Center  which is staffed almost exclusively by active DNC members and former Obama appointees  have apparently made him blind to the central professional standards of the law, which he is charged with upholding, both as a lawyer and as a law teacher, where objectivity remains law's highest principle.

None of these criticisms of a law professor's indulgence in partisan manipulation of legal standards should be surprising, as many of his colleagues at Yale, Chicago, Berkeley, Harvard, Columbia, NYU, and more are operating as effective consultants to the prosecution, but in so doing are deliberately poisoning the public domain with false statements in fact and law.

Matthew G. Andersson is the author of the upcoming book Legally Blind. A former CEO, he has been featured in the Wall Street Journal, the Financial Times, the New York Times and by the National Academy of Sciences in law and economics. He has testified before the U.S. Senate and is a graduate of the University of Chicago. He studied with White House national security advisor W.W. Rostow at the LBJ School of Public Affairs.

Image: Jonathan71 via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 2.5.
The U.K. is experiencing flight delays, causing chaos in airlines. Mark Harper, the British transport minister, announced on Tuesday, Aug. 29, that the flight disruptions could last for days.

UK Flight Delays Could Last for Days, Says British Transport Minister

According to Reuters' latest report, airline delays and cancellations could last for days before they are resolved, as stated by Harper.

On Monday, Aug. 28, more than 1,500 flights were canceled because air traffic controllers had to switch to manual systems.

Cirium, an aviation analytics company, said that the 1,500 canceled include 790 flights departing airports in the United Kingdom and 785 flights that were supposed to be arriving in the country on Monday.

All these disruptions were caused by a technical issue. As of press time, Harper said that it is still unclear if the problem was caused by a cyber attack.

"There is going to be some knock-on impact today and I suspect for another few days as airlines get their planes and get their services back to normal," said the British transport minister.

The National Air Traffic Service (NATS) also said that it would take some time before U.K. flights can go back to normal.

"We will continue to work with the airlines and the airports to recover the situation," said NATS Operations Director Juliet Kennedy via CNBC.

Read Also: Heathrow's Request for Excess Fuel Sparks Concerns About Carbon Emissions

Flight Chaos in the UK

The ongoing flight chaos in the United Kingdom is a serious one as thousands of passengers are affected.

Heathrow Airport, the country's busiest hub, said that its flight schedules remain disrupted. It advised passengers to contact their airline before heading to the airport to avoid issues.

Gatwick Airport also told passengers to check their flight status with their airline before visiting the airport.

Meanwhile, the London Luton Airport said that flights across the United Kingdom are expected to experience delays and cancellations in the following days.

"Airlines will have a major headache now, looking after customers and getting the planes back to some normal schedule again," said Sally Gethin, a British aviation analyst via BBC.

Related Article: EasyJet Passengers Forcibly Removed From Flight! Reason Behind It Will Disappoint You

@ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
The National Archives and Records Administration, also known as NARA, has become ideologically corrupt. It no longer operates as a non-partisan repository of our nations documents. It is, instead, a Democrat-run institution that rides roughshod over American values, has dedicated itself to destroying Trump, and, most recently, has provided cover for Joe Biden. How else can one explain the fact that its spent more than a year trying to prevent the release of thousands of emails that Biden wrote using fake names?

In June 2021, the National Archives turned on itself for being insufficiently woke, with a task force announcing that the institution was structurally racist, right down to its rotunda, which focuses on American history.

In September 2021, the National Archives declared that the Constitution, Bill of Rights, and Declaration of Independence merited a Harmful Language Alert.

In November 2021, when the House select committee investigating January 6 asked NARA to produce documents from Trumps presidency, Trump filed a motion to block that initiative. NARA, violating its founding obligation to be non-partisan, filed a brief opposing Trump.

In August 2022, the FBI raided Mar-a-Lago at the behest of the National Archives, which claimed that Trump refused to return to them his presidential records. The records, at the time, were in a secure area under guard by the Secret Service.

Image: The National Archives building by Jarek Tuszynski. CC BY-SA 3.0.

In September 2022, NARA was completely mellow about the fact that Obamas presidential documentsall twenty truckloads of crateswere being stored in an unsecured warehouse.

In other words, anti-Trump Marxists are in charge of our nations documentary history. But theyre not just anti-Trump Marxists; theyre also pro-Biden praetorian guards who will do anything to cover for him. Honestly, thats the only conclusion we can draw from news that theyve refused for more than a year to release emails that Joe Biden authored using his fake names. Notably, politicians use fake names to hide material that they dont want to have made public, usually do so because their acts are illegal or unethical.

From the New York Post:

The National Archives and Records Administration has admitted that it is in possession of nearly 5,400 emails, electronic records and documents that potentially show President Biden using a pseudonym during his vice presidency, it was revealed on Monday. NARA confirmed the existence of the trove in response to a June 2022 Freedom of Information Act request by the Southeastern Legal Foundation, a nonprofit constitutional legal group. The request sought emails pertaining to the accounts of Robin Ware, Robert L. Peters and JRB Ware  pseudonyms the 80-year-old president was known to use in the White House during his time as President Barack Obamas vice president.

After wrangling about the National Archives footdragging, the Southeastern Legal Foundation (SLF) finally filed suit to force NARA to release the documents. In its press release, the SLF wrote:

Kimberly Hermann, SLF General Counsel explained, All too often, public officials abuse their power by using it for their personal or political benefit. When they do, many seek to hide it. The only way to preserve governmental integrity is for NARA to release Bidens nearly 5,400 emails to SLF and thus the public. The American public deserves to know what is in them. The Biden emails that SLF has been trying to expose for nearly two years are now also at the center of a congressional investigation into the Bidens foreign business dealings. In an attempt to get the very same records, in August 2023, House Oversight Committee Chairman James Comer demanded NARA turn over unredacted copies of these emails, among others.

America used to congratulate itself for having an honest government. Those days are long gone. We have a defiantly corrupt government. Nor is it corrupt in the old-fashioned way of having individual government employees enrich themselves through their work.

Frankly, they don't need to. While government work was once fairly low-paying, a deficit offset by the virtue of being safe, stable, and just good enough to keep you in the middle class, it is now far more profitable than comparable jobs in the private sector.

Nowadays, government work isnt enriching because of bribes; its enriching because taxpayers fund huge pay and benefit packages negotiated by politicians, bureaucrats, and union bosses who get the money directly through paychecks or indirectly through political donations. The only people not represented at the bargaining table are the ones footing the bill.

The real corruption occurring in D.C. is ideological corruption, which is arguably much worse than financial corruption. Ideological rot is like a fungus that takes over the entire institution, destroying everything it touches.

People who accept bribes know theyre doing wrong and at least pretend to obey the laws and their own regulations. People who are ideologically corrupt, however, are determined to destroy or remake the institutions to suit their ideological biases. They will openly ignore laws and regulations to achieve goals that are antithetical to the people they serve and who pay their salaries. This is NARA writ large.
When you look at what happened in Hawaii, one of the things that stands out is that government agencies acted or refrained from acting in ways that were almost certain to speed Lahaina's destruction and end people's ties to the land (and their lives). If you have a cynical, suspicious mind, it's remarkably easy to believe that this wasn't mere bureaucratic incompetence.

The wildfire that broke out on the outskirts of the town of Lahaina on the island of Maui in the early morning hours of Tuesday, August 8 destroyed some 2,200 homes, burned alive at least 114 people, including children, and displaced some 5,000 or more.

Although the exact cause of the fire is not yet established, it is now well known and documented that the government took four critical actions (or refrained from acting) in the lead-up to the fire's destruction:

(1) The fire crews who were initially called to the fire declared that it was "100 percent contained," although it was still burning.

One must ask who called them off. Surely the firefighters knew that the blaze was still alive.

(2) Because of the risk of tsunamis, Hawaii has a vast network of emergency sirens. However, the local government silenced approximately 80 emergency sirens in the area. These sirens were never sounded as the fire drew near.



Image: Fire in Maui. YouTube screen grab.

(3) A government official who had spoken in the past about the importance of water equity refused for some five hours to release extra water to firefighters. He felt he first needed to consult with a farmer about water diversion.

(4) Local government officials blocked the only paved road out of the fire area. People were burned to death in their cars while waiting in line to leave the area.

This would appear to be a perfect storm of government incompetence. Or was it incompetence? Cui bono? Who benefits? Follow the money. The 2,200 homes that occupied that land are now ashes. The land only awaits bulldozers to finish clearing the land. Here come the developers.

Were these four actions merely unintended accidents? Is this the inevitable endpoint of an all-controlling bureaucracy made up of people with massive power, no individual responsibility, and little fear of consequences? Let a jury decide. That jury will likely be instructed that the law presumes that a person intends the natural and probable consequences of his acts.
I was born in 1963 in North-West Indiana. I am white.

In 1968 there was a variety show on TV called, Rowan & Martin's Laugh-In. Before commercial breaks, they would flash scenes of a party where go-go dancers, some of them black, were painted in bright colors.

One day my brother said, "Hey, have you ever seen a colored person? There's one walking down the sidewalk right now!" I immediately ran to the window expecting to witness a kaleidoscope passerby like the go-go dancers on Laugh-In.

They were just brown.

Racism wasn't a thing. Maybe it had been. Most of the black people in my home town lived in one neighborhood. It centered on a bar called "Al's BBQ." In the 1980s, all that property was purchased for a hospital expansion, and the crowd was dispersed into the general population.

That was commonplace in the 1960s.

Bill Cosby was hosting a game show and asked a contestant which side of the railroad tracks he could find "his people" on in his hometown. Every town in the Midwest had a section where the black community was isolated. But hatred of them was not prevalent. Their segregation was merely acknowledged. You couldn't help but notice that all the dark-colored people were congregated in the same area.

That's pattern recognition, not racism.

Racism might be real. When I was a grunt in the Army, the best soldier in my unit was a black guy named Buggs. When he got passed over time and again for promotion to sergeant, one of my colleagues told me, "You'll never see a [negro] promoted in this outfit."

I've also been on the receiving end of racism  in Hawaii. As a general rule, Hawaiians don't like white people. We're called "Howlies" or "haoles," and it's not a flattering term. When I was stationed in Hawaii, I wanted to get a civilian driver's license. When I took my road test, the Native Hawaiian evaluator made no attempt to conceal his contempt toward me. He criticized my every word and action. He directed me into a trap. I turned into an intersection that had a speed limit sign, "10 MPH," at the corner. I didn't notice it and failed the test.

I don't blame them for resenting us.

G.I.s are a magnet for the lowest forms of society. Every military installation has a district near it that hosts strip clubs, drug-dealers, tattoo parlors, and whorehouses. Decent people who dwell there don't want that influence in their neighborhoods. Good for them.

But the concept of racism is deceptive. I had a drinking buddy who was Arabic. He was from Oman. We were hoisting one night at a bowling alley, and he got deathly serious. "I feel like everyone is looking at me," he said. "They think I'm a terrorist."

I looked around. No one was looking at him. It was all in his imagination.

"Why would they think that?" he asked frustratedly. "I'm not a Muslim. Terrorists are Muslims. Muslims don't drink. I'm drinking beer. How can they not know that I'm not a Muslim terrorist?"

Number 1. Americans can't look at an Arab and tell whether or not he's a Muslim. 2. Nobody was looking at him. There was no tension brewing. It was all in his head.

That raises the question: how much of the racial tension in our culture is real, and how much is presumed? You may step into a room where everyone looks different from you and think, "Oh my goodness, I'm out of place. What will they think of me? How can I modify my behavior to fit in?"

Meanwhile, as you're having your adaptive dilemma, none of them notices you. Nobody else notices that you look different from everyone else. Nobody else cares. How much racial tension in our culture is imagined?

There is a stigma attached to blacks. When I was a construction worker 40 years ago, my crew was from Moline, Ill. and the quad-city metroplex. One day my foreman told me, "You'll never see a [negro] work as hard as we do. They'll never buckle down and do this kind of work." He based that assessment on his observation of inner-city northern black men. But I was in the Army Reserve at the time, and when I traveled to Georgia to train, I couldn't help but notice that all the construction crews consisted of black men. I watched them. They were bust-ass, hard-charging meat-eaters.

Men. Good men. Skilled, talented, drink you under the table, beat you at arm-wrestling men.

Inner-city black boys give the rest of their culture a bad name. I've got a buddy who married a Korean girl while he was in the Air Force. They recently traveled to Texas to visit one of their children. Upon their return, she said, "Did you notice that there wasn't one black man who had his pants draped below his butt?"

"Right," her husband replied. "They're not all gangsta."

"And the one black man actually held the door open for me and called me 'Ma'am.'"

She was astonished that black men could be virtuous and righteous and exhibit chivalry. I am not. My experience from the military is that black men rock. I wish that those whom I have known would plant their boots squarely in ass of the boys from the inner cities and teach them how to be men. Real men.

White men can't do it. We're privileged. We can't relate. We're the oppressors.

Black men  and only black men  can jack this s--- up. For the love of God. Please. Amen.

Mike VanOuse is a retired Factoryjack and Bible-thumper. His biblical commentary can be found on Substack , and his books are splayed at vanouse.com .

Image: Jim from Richmond, Virginia, via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 2.0.
Samsungs in-house Exynos chipsets are making a return to its flagship smartphones next year. The Galaxy S24 series will ship with the Exynos 2400 in some markets. Noted tipster Ice Universe claims that Europe is 100% guaranteed to get the new Exynos chip.

The tipster recently took to X (formerly Twitter) to reveal the clock speeds of the Exynos 2400 CPUs. They say the chipset will have a quad-cluster CPU arrangement with a peak speed of 3.16GHz. It features one ARM v9.2 Cortex-X4 prime CPU core operating at the highest possible speed. Samsung has clocked the two Cortex-A720 cores mid-cores at 2.9GHz, three more Cortex-A720 cores at 2.6GHz, and four Cortex-A520 efficiency cores at 1.95GHz.

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If you have been keeping the count, we have mentioned ten CPU cores here. Thats because the Exynos 2400 will be a deca-core chipset from Samsung. Earlier rumors have hinted at a lower base frequency (1.8GHz), though other reported speeds have been similar. Ice Universe says they are 100% sure about this CPU setup and the speeds of the upcoming Exynos processor. Their track record of Samsung leaks suggests they are correct.

The Exynos 2400 isnt all about a CPU overhaul, though. Samsung will pair the CPU with Xclipse 940, a new AMD RDNA2-based custom GPU. Its said to have twice as many graphics computing units as the Xclipse 920 GPU found in Exynos 2200. The new chip will also bring enhanced AI (artificial intelligence) capabilities, improved 5G modem, improved ISP, and more upgrades. There are rumors about a two-way satellite communication system as well.

The Exynos 2400-powered Galaxy S24 may not be limited to Europe

European users may not be the only ones getting the Galaxy S24 with the Exynos 2400 SoC. Samsung is also expected to ship the new flagships with its in-house chipset in parts of Asia, Africa, and Latin America. The US, China, South Korea, and a few other markets should get Qualcomms Snapdragon 8 Gen 3. Like this year, Samsung will use an overclocked version of the latest Qualcomm chipset in the Galaxy S24 series as well.

Its an octa-core chip featuring one Cortex-X4 CPU core clocked at 3.30GHz, three Cortex-A720 cores at 3.15GHz, two Cortex-A720 cores at 2.96GHz, and two Cortex-A520 cores at 2.27GHz. Time will tell whether the Exynos 2400 can match or surpass the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3s performance. Samsung might have a tough time selling the new flagships with an inferior Exynos processor. The Galaxy S24 series launches in early 2024.
Pixel phones have always generally been the best phones for the lifespan of Android OS updates, and its rumored to get even better with the Pixel 8. A new report from 9To5Google suggests Google is planning to improve the length of time it sends out updates to Pixel phones.

Android as a whole now has a standard of about three years. Anything beyond that is icing on the cake so-to-speak. And in general considered a bonus from the manufacturer if it goes longer than that. Samsung has potentially set what is hopefully going to be a trend. By promising four years of OS updates for its latest devices. Which it started in 2021, and even retroactively applied to its devices from 2019.

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Googles Pixel devices, what should be the posterchild for Android, updates included, are now being outlived by Samsung as far as new OS versions are concerned. But it seems Google is looking to rectify that. Googles Tensor chips have been a big factor in helping the company accomplish this task. Even if it takes a couple more years to make it a standard.

The Pixel 8 series OS updates could go beyond what Samsung offers

Theres not a lot of detail here about Googles plans. But the one piece of information thats available is that the Pixel 8 might just get more OS updates than what Samsung promises. As Samsung promises OS updates for four years, that means Google could push things to five. And even one more year would be setting a good bar for other manufacturers.

Obviously, this has yet to be confirmed. And if it were to be confirmed, it would probably happen when Google unveils the Pixel 8. With that said, we may not hear anything official on this from Google until later in the Fall. When Google does its Pixel hardware event every year. Still, this is a big deal. Even if it just a rumor for now. Because one of Androids biggest issues is that it has always lacked OS update longevity. And now it sounds like that might be changing.
The US governments ban on Huawei from conducting business with American companies led to the demise of its Kirin chips, which last saw a release in 2020. However, according to a new report from a Weibo leaker, Fixed Focus Digital (via NotebookCheck.net), it looks like Huawei might be gearing up to reenter the market with its Kirin SoCs.

As per the leak, there are two potential configurations for an upcoming Kirin chipset. The first configuration could feature a combination of two Cortex-X3 and two Cortex-A715 CPU cores, accompanied by four Cortex-A510 CPU cores. For graphical performance, the SoC might include an Arm Immortalis-G715 MC16 GPU.

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The second configuration differs slightly, with 2 Cortex-X1 CPU cores, 3 Cortex-A78 cores, and 3 Cortex-A55 cores, along with an Arm Mali G710 MC10/6 GPU. However, it remains unclear whether these configurations represent distinct chips or variant iterations of a single model.

Another configuration in the works

While the prospect of new Huawei chips is intriguing enough, another Weibo post suggests the existence of not just one or two but three new SKUs in the pipeline. These SKUs aptly namedKirin 720, Kirin 830, and Kirin 9100would imply that Huawei is developing at least a few new smartphones.

Furthermore, if the rumors hold true, the Kirin 720 and Kirin 830 might debut later this year, and the Kirin 9100 could potentially launch the following year, possibly aligned with the release of a Huawei P70 flagship device.

How will Huawei bypass the restrictions?

Given that Huawei is barred from conducting business with American companies, reports propose that Chinas leading foundry, SMIC, could provide a solution, as the company might utilize SMICs N+2 (7 nm) node technology to manufacture the new chips. Alternatively, theres speculation that Huawei has potentially devised a method to stack two 14nm chips to achieve performance comparable to 7nm while maintaining low power consumption.
Samsung addressed one of the biggest complaints with its foldable smartphone design this year. The Galaxy Z Fold 5 and Galaxy Z Flip 5 both fold flat without leaving a gap, making them less bulky when folded. It appears the 2024 Fold model would bring another notable design improvement. A leaked early prototype of the Galaxy Z Fold 6 shows a much wider cover display.

Shared by tipster Ice Universe on X/Twitter, the prototype foldable looks like a regular slab phone when folded. The tipster speculates that the Galaxy Z Fold 6s cover display could have a similar aspect ratio as the Galaxy S24 Ultra, which itself is rumored to be switching from a curved display to a flat one. If true, that would mean a notably wider cover display than the one found on the Galaxy Z Fold 5.

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For reference, the current Fold models cover display has an aspect ratio of 23.1:9. The Galaxy S24 Ultras flat display, on the other hand, is rumored to have a 19.5:9 aspect ratio. There may be some differences between the upcoming Galaxy S and Galaxy Z series phones, but Samsung is seemingly making the foldable wider. Fans have long been asking for this, as a taller screen isnt the most comfortable to use.

Samsung still has time to work on the Galaxy Z Fold 6 design

Note that this isnt the first time we have seen this foldable prototype. It was previously passed off as a Galaxy Z Fold 5 prototype with a bunch of others featuring varying display aspect ratios. The video surfaced just a day after Samsung launched the new foldable, suggesting that the company tested multiple designs for it.

Perhaps these are some of the design concepts the company has in mind for its Fold-series foldables. A few of them could come out as a final product, while others may never see the light of day. Time will tell if the Galaxy Z Fold 6 will look similar to the leaked prototype. The 2024 foldable is still almost a year away. Thats plenty of time for Samsung to ponder and decide on the final design.

The Korean firm likely has most of its focus on the Galaxy S24 series right now, with the new foldables taking a backseat. The Galaxy S24, Galaxy S24+, and Galaxy S24 Ultra will reportedly undergo some design changes too. As said earlier, the Ultra model could be getting a flat display, while the entire lineup may sport flat frames. You can expect more rumors about these phones in the coming weeks.
The Vatican has scrambled to clarify and contextualize the recent comments Pope Francis made during a message to Russian Catholic youth in St. Petersburg on Friday (August 25). The pontiff praised 18th-century Russian monarchs Peter the Great and Catherine the Great, and the alleged legacy they left to modern Russia, a legacy Russian President Vladimir Putin invoked on record in justification of his invasion of Ukraine.

"Never forget the legacy," the pope said. "You are the heirs of Great Russia: Great Russia of saints, rulers, Great Russia of Peter I, Catherine II, that empire - great, enlightened, of great culture and great humanity."

His statement was not part of the prepared speech provided by the Holy See's official website. According to Reuters, the prepared speech was addressed in his native Spanish while the improvised message quoting Russia's imperial past was spoken in Italian. The video of the speech was also shared widely online over the weekend.

Russia is a predominantly Orthodox nation, but it has pockets of Catholic communities in both Moscow and St. Petersburg.

POPE FRANCIS CAUSES INTERNATIONAL STORM



The pope told young Russian Catholics:



"Don't forget your heredity. You are heirs of the great Russia - the great Russia of the saints, of kings, the great Russia of Peter the Great, of Catherine II, the great Russian empire, cultured, pic.twitter.com/9Tgr5kstSz  Catholic Arena (@CatholicArena) August 28, 2023

Regional Reactions

It could be recalled in the past year that Francis had been consistently supportive of peace and had called the Ukrainians "martyrs" in the fight against Russian forces.

In the early months of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, the pope appeared to avoid picking sides and refrained from overtly criticizing Putin or his religious advisor, Patriarch Kirill. But in May 2022, Francis broke his silence after he warned the Patriarch of Moscow not to "transform himself into Putin's altar boy."

Around the same time this year, the leader of the largest Christian denomination has also received Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who has asked Francis to both promote Kyiv's peace plan and condemn Russia's actions but has not done so. Zelensky, on the other hand, refused the pope's mediation.

The pope has also urged all Catholic bishops in the world to consecrate Russia and Ukraine to the immaculate heart of the Virgin Mary, according to the requests she allegedly told to three shepherd children in Fatima, Portugal in 1917.

However, the recent remarks became another reversal of his stance, and have been quickly and strongly criticized in Ukraine and in other countries near Russia that used to be part of the Soviet Union.

Ukrainian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Oleg Nikolenko wrote on Facebook the comments about Russia's "grand-state ideas" which triggered its "chronic aggression" and superiority complex unfortunately "[came] from the pope's mouth," while former Estonian president Toomas Hendrik Ilves said the remarks were "truly revolting."

"It is precisely with such imperialist propaganda, the 'spiritual ties' and the 'need' to save 'great Mother Russia' that the Kremlin justifies the killing of thousands of Ukrainians and the destruction of Ukrainian cities and villages," Nikolenko added.

However, the most hurt of all people are Ukrainian Catholics, who, while sharing the Eastern Christian tradition and liturgy with the Orthodox Church of Ukraine, are in communion with the Bishop of Rome, the Pope's personal capacity.

The head of the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church, Archbishop Sviatoslav Shevchuk, said in a statement that the pope's remarks caused "pain" and "disappointment" to his flock, and called for the Vatican to clarify Francis's statements to avert "any manipulation of the intentions, context, and statements" assigned to him.

"The examples given by the Holy Father actually contradict his teachings on peace, since he has always condemned any form of manifestation of imperialism in the modern world and warned of the dangers of extreme nationalism, stressing that it is the cause of the 'third world war in segments,'" the archbishop was quoted as per Politico.

Meanwhile, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said the pope's comments were described as very gratifying, commending Francis for what they said was his knowledge of Russian history.

In June 2022, Putin compared himself to Peter the Great, the 18th-century Tsar of Russia who expanded his realm by seizing Swedish land and several Baltic States to become one of the most powerful geopolitical states in Europe at that time. Meanwhile, it was Catherine the Great who first annexed Crimea into the Russian realm in 1783.

Read Also: Poland's State Railway Network Was Hacked; Mishap Potentially Involves Russian Connection

Vatican Responds to Backlash

In response to the diplomatic storm the pope caused, the Vatican government issued a statement Monday (August 28) saying Francis never takes a political stance and that his words were to be read as "a voice raised in defense of human life and the values attached to it."

Vatican officials added the pope always condemned a "morally unjust, unacceptable, barbaric, senseless, repugnant, and sacrilegious" war.

"The Pope intended to encourage young people to preserve and promote what is positive in Russia's great cultural and spiritual heritage, and certainly not to extol imperialistic logics and governmental personalities, cited to point to certain historical periods of reference," Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni added in a statement.

Moreover, the Vatican embassy in Kyiv issued a statement that "firmly" rejected interpretations that the pope "might have encouraged young Russian Catholics to draw inspiration from historical Russian figures known for imperialistic and expansionist ideas and actions that negatively impacted neighboring populations, including the Ukrainian people," Catholic Review reported.

Pope Francis has appointed the Archbishop of Bologna, Cardinal Matteo Zuppi, as a peace envoy to Ukraine, Russia, and the United States to facilitate peace talks over the summer.

Related Article: Recently-Declassified US Intel Reveals Russia Uses Influence Laundering to Spread Propaganda to the West

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(ANSA) - ROME, AUG 29 - Lazio regional communications chief Marcello De Angelis quit on Tuesday after a recent string of rows including saying that the 1980 Bologna rail station bombers, one of whom he is related to by marriage, were innocent.

De Angelis, a former rightist militant, also got flak over one of his 'identity' rock band's songs saying Jews are a "merchant race" and over a December 21 social media post of a candelabrum allegedly echoing Nazi war criminal Heinrich Himmler's greetings to the winter solstice.

De Angelis, spokesman for rightwing Lazio Governor Francesco Rocca, faced quit calls from the centre left and leftwing opposition.

As well, Premier Giorgia Meloni was urged to distance herself from his statements. (ANSA).


12.50 daily charge introduced as Ulez expands to include whole of London

London has become the worlds largest pollution charging area after the ultra-low emission zone (Ulez) was expanded to include the whole of the capital.

People who drive in the zone in a vehicle which does not meet minimum emissions standards are now required to pay a 12.50 daily fee or risk a 180 fine, reduced to 90 if paid within 14 days.

London mayor Sadiq Khan has faced strong opposition to the scheme, although a 160 million scheme run by Transport for London (TfL) enables residents, small businesses, sole traders and charities scrapping non-compliant cars to claim grants.

There have been regular protests against the plan and anti-Ulez vigilantes have repeatedly targeted enforcement cameras installed in the new areas in recent months.

Videos have been posted online showing people described as Blade Runners cutting the cameras wires or completely removing the devices.

(PA Graphics)

The Metropolitan Police said it had recorded 288 crimes relating to the cameras as of August 1.

Ulez expansion has become a political issue, being blamed for Labours failure to win last months Uxbridge and South Ruislip parliamentary by-election.

In an interview with the PA news agency, the Labour mayor said: The vast majority of Londoners want to see clean air and I recognise there are some Londoners with genuine concerns.

My job is to try and address those concerns and I have been doing that.

People take part in a protest against the proposed ultra-low emission zone (Ulez) expansion in Tooting, London (PA)

Mr Khan said he was disappointed at the lack of Government support for the policy and its accompanying scrappage scheme.

He expressed frustration that the scrappage programme has no Government funding, unlike those run in several other English cities.

He said: It was this Government that gave financial support to cities like Bristol, Birmingham and Portsmouth towards their clean air zones.

If clean air is right for them then why isnt clean air right for London?

Mayor of London Sadiq Khan (PA)

A Government spokeswoman said: Both transport and air quality are devolved to London, which is why they are the direct responsibility of the Mayor of London.

In fact, the Government has provided TfL 6 billion since 2020 to keep public transport moving and almost 102 million for projects specifically targeted to help tackle air pollution.

To comply with Ulez standards, petrol cars must generally have been first registered after 2005, while most diesel cars registered after September 2015 are also exempt from the charge.

TfL says nine out of 10 cars seen driving in outer London on an average day are compliant.

Separate figures obtained by the RAC show more than 690,000 licensed cars in the whole of London are likely to be non-compliant.

This does not take into account other types of vehicles or those which enter London from neighbouring counties.

Some opponents of Ulez expansion claim the policy is aimed at generating money for TfL and criticised the mayor for introducing it during the cost of living crisis.

But Mr Khan told PA: Its really heartbreaking when you get an in-patients ward and see the consequences of air pollution, but also it is inspiring to see that some of these policies can transform peoples lives.
Travel disruption could last for days after flights were cancelled leaving thousands of passengers stranded during a technical fault in the UKs air traffic control (ATC) system.

Transport Secretary Mark Harper said it was the worst incident of its kind in nearly a decade and announced an independent review will be carried out.

The issue started on Monday after ATC provider National Air Traffic Services (Nats) suffered what it described as a technical issue preventing it from automatically processing flight plans.

This resulted in the number of flights being restricted while the plans were checked manually, leading more than a quarter of flights at UK airports to be cancelled.

Nats said at 3.15pm on Monday the problem was resolved, but disruption continued into Tuesday as many aircraft and crews were out of position.

At Heathrow Airport on Tuesday, at least 32 departures and 31 arrivals were cancelled.

British Airways, which operates the most flights to and from the west London airport, was the worst affected airline.

There were at least 23 departures and 51 arrivals cancelled at Gatwick on Tuesday.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak told broadcasters: I know people will be enormously frustrated by the disruption thats impacting them.

Thankfully things like this are rare and the issue itself was fixed in a matter of hours, but the disruption obviously is continuing and will last for a little while longer.

The Transport Secretary is in constant dialogue with all the industry participants, he will be talking to airlines specifically later today and making sure that they support passengers to get home as quickly as possible.

Transport Secretary Mark Harper told GB News: This was a technical fault. We do not think this was a cybersecurity incident.

And what will happen now with an incident of this magnitude is there will be an independent review.

The Civil Aviation Authority will be putting together a report in the coming days, which obviously I will take a look at to see whether there are lessons to learn for the future, to see whether we can reduce the impact of this again.

Its nearly a decade since there was a significant issue like this.

We want to make sure it doesnt happen again, because of all the disruption thats been caused to passengers across the country.

Passengers wait at a departure gate at Ferenc Liszt International Airport in Budapest, Hungary, as flights to the UK and Ireland were cancelled (Martin Rickett/PA)

An unprecedented ATC systems failure in December 2014 led to widespread disruption at airports.

In relation to the latest incident, Rob Bishton, interim chief executive at regulator the Civil Aviation Authority, said: As part of our regulatory oversight of its activities, we continue to engage with Nats, and once its investigation is fully complete an incident report will be provided to the UK Civil Aviation Authority.

The reports outcomes will then be shared with the Secretary of State for Transport.

Aviation analytics company Cirium said 790 departures and 785 arrivals were cancelled across all UK airports on Monday.

That was equivalent to around 27% of planned flights.

A message from our Operations Director about todays disruption. pic.twitter.com/C4LWX7VyM8  NATS (@NATS) August 28, 2023

Passengers stuck in the UK and abroad described their frustration, as some had no idea when or how they would get to their destination.

Katrina Harrison and her family  including one-year-old twin grandchildren  spent the night at Leeds Bradford Airport after their flight to Antalya, Turkey was cancelled on Monday afternoon.

Ms Harrison, from Stockton-on-Tees, told the PA news agency: There were no hotels to stay in, we couldnt get the car out of the car park.

We havent slept, we tried to sleep on the floor but couldnt. Luckily the children could sleep in the pram.

The holiday was supposed to be a family celebration of a few things. Weve spent 12,000 on it and weve been treated like muck.

Ryan and Kirsty Fawcett, from Selby in North Yorkshire, were at East Midlands Airport with their two-year-old twin sons for their first holiday as a family  and the couples first since 2019  to Antalya in Turkey.

Their flight on Monday afternoon was cancelled, and after staying in a hotel overnight, they were booked on another departure on Tuesday morning that was also axed.

Ms Fawcett said: What has annoyed us more is we have been told just sit and wait around, with the extra expense of hotels and things.

What if we didnt have money spare?

Passengers stuck in the UK and abroad described their frustration, as some had no idea when or how they would get to their destination (Jordan Pettitt/PA)

Aviation consultant John Strickland said providing ATC for flights is complicated.

He went on: Systems are meant to be robust. They are pressure tested and that does give a very high level of reliability.

But as weve seen in other parts of the industry, and undoubtedly in other industries too like the banking sector, there is a vulnerability in which relying on IT systems presents.

Passengers were urged by airlines to check before they leave for the airport as their flight times may have changed.
The number of alcohol deaths in Scotland would have been higher without minimum unit pricing (MUP), the countrys alcohol minister has said.

Elena Whitham spoke to journalists after figures released on Tuesday showed 1,276 people died from alcohol last year, the highest figure since 2008.

But the minister said the policy  which places a minimum charge of 50p per unit of alcohol  has been working.

A report in June from Public Health Scotland (PHS) found that alcohol deaths had reduced by 13.4% since the policys introduction  despite the figures released on Tuesday showing the number was 1,136 in 2018, the same year the policy was introduced.

We know that the evaluation from Public Health Scotland shows that there has been an estimated hundreds of people whose lives have been saved by minimum unit pricing, the minister said.

Those are really positive measures, but I think if we didnt have minimum unit pricing in place, I think that the deaths that we would be seeing today would have been higher.

Her comments come as the Scottish Government is under fire after reportedly altering a press release about the PHS report on its website to say the policy is estimated to have saved lives from the claim that our world-leading policy is saving lives.

Ms Whitham also said both her and First Minister Humza Yousafs eyes were firmly back on the ball in the fight against addiction.

The poorest in Scotland, the figures showed, were more than four times more likely to die because of alcohol than those in the least deprived areas.

The age standardised mortality rate  which provides a weighted average per 100,000 of population  for those in the least affluent 20% of areas was 41.7, compared with just 9.6 in the richest 20%.

New: 1, 276 people died from alcohol-specific causes in 2022, this is 31 or 2% higher than 2021 and also the highest number since 2008. There were 836 deaths among males and 440 in females. Read the report https://t.co/03GU7smexK pic.twitter.com/r4br8xtLVY  NatRecordsScot (@NatRecordsScot) August 29, 2023

The majority of deaths in 2022 were recorded in men, with 836 deaths logged.

This was the same figure as the previous year, meaning the entirety of the increase in deaths was recorded in women.

The NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde health board area  the largest in the country  recorded the highest number of deaths with 326, followed by NHS Lanarkshire with 200 and NHS Lothian  which includes Edinburgh  with 153.

The majority of deaths logged alcoholic liver disease as an underlying cause of death, with 778.

The minister said it was really important the Scottish Government take the time to assess what was behind the rise in alcohol deaths, as well as what can be done over the increase in deaths among women.

Dr Alastair MacGilchrist, chairman of Scottish Health Action on Alcohol Problems, said he was saddened by the figures, adding: The Scottish Government must do more to ensure that this level of harm does not continue.

It is essential that our government addresses this public health emergency with the appropriate urgency and priority.

It is vital that policies such as MUP remain in place to continue to reduce alcohol-related harms. The level at which MUP is set should be raised to at least 65p to maintain its benefit.

Alongside this, the Scottish Government must address the wider availability and marketing of alcohol, in order to tackle the inescapable exposure to alcohol experienced by children and other vulnerable groups, such as people in recovery.

But Alcohol Focus Scotland said the increase was unacceptable, with the groups deputy chief executive Laura Mahon adding: For the third year in a row weve seen deaths caused by alcohol increasing.

This is completely unacceptable, with each of these deaths being preventable.

The Tory health spokesman said the figures were utterly shocking (Andrew Milligan/PA)

We need to be going further and faster in our efforts to reverse this appalling trend.

She added that the MUP should be increased to 65p.

The Scottish Tory health spokesman Dr Sandesh Gulhane said the figures were utterly shocking and claimed MUP was simply not working.

It is increasingly proving to be a blunt instrument to tackle a complex problem, he added.

The SNP Government have even now had to embarrassingly amend a press release in which they were boasting about the apparent success of minimum unit pricing.

Scottish Labour public health spokeswoman Carol Mochan said: This is a public health emergency on the same scale as Scotlands drug death crisis, and both are the legacy of the SNPs shameful cuts to Drug and Alcohol Partnerships.

The SNPs failure on public health is costing lives and devastating the poorest communities  we urgently need a comprehensive plan to support treatment services and ensure those struggling with alcohol can get the help they need.

Scottish Lib Dem leader Alex Cole-Hamilton accused the Scottish Government of being asleep at the wheel.

While Matt Lambert, the chief executive of the Portman Group  the alcohol marketing regulator  said: We believe this reinforces the pressing need for targeting tailored medical and social support for those drinking at the heaviest and most harmful level as a key step to help reverse this worrying trend.
A Canadian national accused of selling lethal substances to assist people across the world with suicide, including in the UK, has been charged with 12 further offences.

Kenneth Law was arrested in Ontario and initially charged with two counts of counselling and aiding suicide after allegedly selling 1,200 packages to 40 countries.

In a press conference on Tuesday, Inspector Simon James of York Police in Canada announced 11 police forces in Ontario were investigating the 57-year-old.

He said Law had allegedly being using the websites to sell the lethal substances since late 2020.

The officer told reporters the new charges relate to the province of Ontario only and each related to a person who had died.

Outside of Canada, the National Crime Agency said it launched its own probe into the deaths of 88 people in the UK who bought products websites selling substances to assist with suicide.

Law is also being investigated by police in the United States, Italy, Australia and New Zealand.

In total, 272 individuals in the UK were identified as having purchased products from the websites in a two-year period up to April 2023.

The NCA said 88 of those people have died.

At the press conference, Inspector James told reporters the force was regularly in contact with police services from outside of the country.

Before Tuesdays extra charges, Law appeared in court in Brampton, Ontario on Friday for a brief bail hearing.

The defendant, of Mississauga, Ontario, is due to appear at the same court on September 8.
Foreign Secretary James Cleverly will visit China on Wednesday as part of efforts to ease tensions between the West and Beijing.

He will hold talks with Chinas foreign affairs minister Wang Yi and vice president Han Zheng.

The UK believes that engagement with Xi Jinpings administration is essential given its important economic and political influence around the world.

Mr Cleverly has promised he will raise concerns over human rights and the treatment of Hong Kong during his trip.

China vice president Han Zheng, centre, arriving for a reception at Buckingham Palace in May hosted by the King for overseas guests attending his coronation (Jacob King/PA)

And he will argue that with Chinas global significance comes a responsibility on international security  helping to end Vladimir Putins invasion of Ukraine, calming tensions in the South China Sea and ceasing malign activity in cyberspace.

Mr Cleverly said: It is important we manage our relationship with China across a range of issues.

No significant global problem  from climate change to pandemic prevention, from economic instability to nuclear proliferation  can be solved without China.

Chinas size, history and global significance means they cannot be ignored, but that comes with a responsibility on the global stage.

That responsibility means China fulfilling its international commitments and obligations.

Mr Cleverly follows in the footsteps of US counterpart Antony Blinken, who visited Beijing in June, and his trip will be the first by a UK foreign secretary since 2018.

But the visit will be closely watched by China hawks on the Conservative benches, who have grave security concerns about Beijings increasing power and accused the Government of an approach resembling the appeasement of Nazi Germany.

Mr Cleverly said he would discuss Chinas posture in the region, the sanctions imposed by Beijing on MPs and peers who have spoken out about Mr Xis administration, and the failure to abide by the agreements over Hong Kong.

A successful trip could potentially pave the way for talks between Rishi Sunak and Mr Xi, with both leaders invited to attend the G20 summit in India in September.

Mr Cleverlys visit was condemned as a mistake by former Tory leader Sir Iain Duncan Smith, who said it was the latest stage of Project Kowtow.

Sir Iain, one of the MPs hit by Chinese sanctions, told the PA news agency: The problem with our position right now is it smells terribly of appeasement.

Its like we want more business, therefore we dont want to upset the Chinese too much.

The problem we have got with that is its redolent of the 1930s where we just thought Just be nice to these people and complain occasionally but dont do anything.

The result is, what we end up with is that they think we are just too weak.

He claimed the UK looked like the soft underbelly of the Western alliance to China which Beijing was seeking to exploit through business links and its security apparatus.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin said: The two sides will have in-depth communication on Sino-British relations and international and regional issues of common concern.

We hope the British side will work with us to uphold the spirit of mutual respect, deepen exchanges, enhance mutual understanding and promote the stable development of Sino-British relations.
Foreign Secretary James Cleverly is set to visit the Philippines amid efforts to boost ties with the country.

The senior Cabinet minister is visiting the Philippines for the first time on Tuesday.

It comes after a new partnership covering climate, trade and foreign policy was launched between the UK and the Philippines in December 2021.

The visit will see Mr Cleverly meet with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr and Foreign Secretary Enrique Manalo.

The Indo-Pacific region is seen as of key importance for the UKs security interests, with Mr Cleverly making several trips there since taking up his role last year.

Im delighted to visit the Philippines for the first time, a place which shares common values and interests with the UK, Mr Cleverly said.

We are expanding our areas of collaboration by growing our trade and investment through British investment partnerships and deepening co-operation on security, maritime and climate.
Two children who were at the centre of a parental court fight have left England and returned to Ireland after a judge concluded that their mother had plotted to abduct them in breach of their fathers custody rights.

Judge Dexter Dias has explained how the childrens mother had brought them to England from their home in Ireland without the knowledge or consent of their father.

The judge ordered their return after the man took legal action in London.

He concluded that the woman had acted in a deeply deceitful and manipulative fashion throughout  starting with an inexcusable plot to abduct the children by deception.

Judge Dias has outlined detail of the case in a written ruling published online after considering evidence at private hearings in the Family Division of the High Court  at the Royal Courts of Justice complex in London  earlier this summer.

He said the children had now returned to Ireland with the mother.

The judge, who has not identified the family involved, said the woman had failed in a bid to overturn his return order in the Court of Appeal.

Two children who were at the centre of a court custody fight have left England and returned to the Republic of Ireland after a judge concluded that their mother had plotted to abduct them in breach of their fathers rights (Aaron Chown/PA)

He said the woman had brought the children to England in late 2022.

Their father had asked him to order their return to Ireland.

The judge said their mother had argued against a move back to Ireland and said they would be at grave risk of harm if returned.

Judge Dias rejected her arguments and ruled in favour of their father.

They were brought by their mother without the knowledge or consent of their father, said Judge Dias.

The mother has acted in a deeply deceitful and manipulative fashion throughout this case, starting with her inexcusable plot to abduct the children by deception, while enlisting them both in the dishonesty.

He added: She has tried everything to ensure that the abducted children remain in the UK in serious breach of their fathers rights of custody.
The task of dealing with the legacy of the Troubles in Northern Ireland has been avoided due to lack of will, the retired judge who will head a new information recovery commission has said.

Former lord chief justice for Northern Ireland Sir Declan Morgan also said that the Governments controversial legacy proposals have had a very unfortunate start and added that some Conservative MPs have continued to focus on how the legislation would benefit military veterans.

Sir Declan is the incoming chief commissioner of the Independent Commission for Reconciliation and Information Recovery (ICRIR), which will take over hundreds of unresolved Troubles cases when the legislation becomes law, probably by next month.

The Northern Ireland Troubles (Legacy and Reconciliation) Bill could give immunity from prosecution for Troubles-related offences to former terrorists who co-operated with the ICRIR.

It would also prevent future civil cases and inquests.

The Bill is opposed by all major Stormont parties, the Irish Government and victims campaign groups.

However, Sir Declan said he decided to accept the position as head of the ICRIR partly because of the lack of a reconciliation process for victims and survivors of terrorism.

He told the PA news agency: The first question was how has this issue been addressed in our society so far?

The answer is that it has been avoided.

It was avoided in 1998 (when the Good Friday Agreement was signed), there were attempts in the early 2000s through the HET (Historical Enquiries Team) to deal with it, which foundered.

There was an attempt in 2009 through Eames/Bradley to do something about it, which also foundered.

The Stormont House Agreement looked as though it was going to be a fresh start for everybody in 2014, but the fact that the Stormont House Agreement hasnt come into force, it seems to me there is a lack of will somewhere for that to happen.

We waited nine years for that. How much longer are we going to have to wait for something to be done?

Sir Declan Morgan said the ICRIR would take a public-led approach to its work (Liam McBurney/PA)

That was the first part of the background. We really need to do something about this.

Referring to controversy over the Governments legacy bill, Sir Declan said: I agree the legislation had a most unfortunate start.

I think the written ministerial statement by the then secretary of state Brandon Lewis was very focused on what was in this for the veterans, and some Conservative politicians have continued to focus on that as being what the issue is.

I do remember speaking in Westminster remotely, where after that written ministerial statement there were obviously a lot of people who felt this was not an appropriate response.

I remember saying to the group, you can stop this and the way to stop it is for all the parties in Northern Ireland to say we want the Stormont House Agreement.

That is the answer if you really want to stop it.

I didnt get any support apart from one person at Queens University on the call, and people I spoke to afterwards in the political sphere explained to me that although everybody signed up to the Stormont House Agreement they didnt agree the details and therefore it wasnt going to happen.

If people wont sign up to the Stormont House Agreement they are highly unlikely to sign up to anything else which is going to address this problem.

You are always going to be left with some disagreement within Northern Ireland about how one should approach this.

Sir Declan said the proposed legislation was very broad and this would allow him and his team of commissioners to take a public-led approach when dealing with information recovery and reconciliation.

He said: I looked at the legislation. Once you get past the door of immunity and start to look at what is in the legislation, it is extraordinarily open in terms of how you are going to deliver the things like the information recovery and look at the issue of reconciliation.

It is like an open box into which you can put whatever you want to make the machinery work.

That is why you can go out to the public and say how are we going to fill this box to make this work in the best way.

It was that opportunity which for me was a very important aspect in the past.

Sir Declan said he was not disappointed that there had been no public support from political parties in Northern Ireland for the work of the ICRIR.

He said: I didnt have any expectation that there would be any kind of overt or covert political support for the commission.

This is a very difficult, sensitive political issue, to expect the politicians, without taking the temperature of their communities, to come out and express their support, in light of what has been the position to date, is expecting a great deal.

I think it is up to us to show we can deliver and if that happens, I would hope that we would begin to see the benefits of that in the political process.
Russian President Vladimir Putin will not be attending Wagner Chief Yevgeny Prigozhin's funeral. This information was confirmed by Kremlin spokesperson Dimitry Peskov during his daily call with journalists.

Vladimir Putin Will Not Attend Prigozhin's Funeral

Peskov explained why the Russian leader has no plans of attending the funeral of the Wagner boss.

He said that the Prigozhin's funeral arrangements were a matter for the warlord's family. Dimitry added that the Russian government also doesn't know the details about the funeral, such as the schedule and place.

The Russian spokesperson further stated that they are not allowed to make comments on the private family ceremony.

"The president's presence [at Prigozhin's funeral] is not envisaged. We don't have any specific information on the funeral," stated Peskov via The Guardian.

Although Peskov reiterates that the place and time of Prigozhin's funeral are unknown, some sources said that the former Wagner chief could be laid as early as Aug. 29.

They added that the funeral will take place at the Serafimovski cemetery in northwestern Saint Petersburg, in Primorsky District.

Local media outlets shared these details after seeing heavy police cordons surrounding the cemetery, which is also the place where Putin's parents are buried.

Related Article: Pro-Kyiv Russian Volunteer Corps Urges Wagner to Switch Sides to Avenge Prigozhin's Death

Putin's Comments About Prigozhin's Death

ABC News reported that the Russian government is avoiding making too many statements about Prigozhin's death to avoid further conflicts.

However, experts said that the confusion and tight secrecy surrounding the Wagner chief's funeral reflect the speculations claiming that his death was a vendetta for the mercenary group's mutiny against Russia.

Despite rumors and other problems, Vladimir Putin still commented on Prigozhin's death. The Russian president said that the Wagner Group's leader and other officials who died in the plane crash all made a significant contribution to fighting Ukraine.

Putin added that Prigozhin was a talented businessman. But, he also said that the former Wagner boss was a man of difficult fate as he made serious mistakes in his life.

If you want to learn more about what Vladimir Putin said after Prigozhin's death, you can click this link.

Related Article: Is Wagner Chief Still Alive? Prigozhin's Death Happened in 2019, Reappeared After 3 Days

@ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
Michael Gove is to announce a major rewriting of rules on waterway pollution and housing developments, according to reports.

The Guardian and The Sun reported that the Housing Secretary will on Tuesday rip up so-called nutrient neutrality rules, which have been criticised by developers and some Tory MPs for blocking much-needed housebuilding.

The rules are designed to ensure that a development or project does not dangerously increase nutrient levels in local wetlands and waterways in protected areas.

According to The Sun, Natural England rules on nutrient neutrality will become guidance with local officials able to either ignore or follow it.

The paper also said that property developers could be asked to help contribute to a mitigation fund to help tackle any pollution caused by building on greenfield and brownfield sites.

This major shift is likely to anger environmental campaigners.

The rules date to 2017 and were introduced when the UK was still part of the EU.

Tory MP Simon Clarke, a former senior minister in Liz Trusss short-lived administration, has long called for reform in this area.

He said the move would be a welcome victory for common sense.
The organisers of Notting Hill Carnival have said they deplore all acts of violence following a spate of stabbing incidents at the festival over the weekend.

Notting Hill Carnival Ltd said those who carried out the attacks have nothing to do with Notting Hill Carnival or its values.

Two men are in hospital, one in a critical condition, after incidents at the carnival, which was held on the streets of west London on Sunday and Monday.

The statement said: Notting Hill Carnival has once again been a spectacular weekend of colour and sound, the culmination of a years long work, that results in this hugely important and unique cultural event.

Carnival is about these communities and people, who dedicate so much time, love, incredible creativity and effort to the parade, sound systems, music, food, costumes and much more that makes up the event.

We deplore all acts of violence, these people have nothing to do with Notting Hill Carnival and its values.

Tragically, these incidents are all too common in our society. Last year the Office for National Statistics shows that 12,786 knife offences were carried out in the capital over the 12 months to the end of March, this sadly affects us as much as any community.

We will continue to work hard with our partners to protect Notting Hill Carnival and the people who make it so special.

It comes after the Conservative partys London mayoral candidate said the festival should be moved and potentially held in a park.

Susan Hall, the partys 2024 London mayoral candidate, called for the event to be held in a different location, saying police dont want to be there.

However, a spokesman for London mayor Sadiq Khan said the event was born out of the Caribbean community in north Kensington and Notting Hill and that this should remain its home.

A 29-year-old man is in a critical condition in hospital following a stabbing in Warfield Road, just off Harrow Road, shortly after 9pm on Monday.

A 19-year-old man is in a serious but stable condition in hospital after he was stabbed in Ladbroke Grove shortly before 8pm.

Police said six other men, aged 18, 19, 20, 25, 28 and 40, sustained non-life threatening injuries in separate stabbing incidents on Monday.

There were 275 arrests across the two days of the carnival, with 165 arrests on Monday for a range of offences including possession of offensive weapons, assaults on police officers, possession of drugs and sexual offences.

Once again Notting Hill Carnival marred by serious violence  and attacks on Police Officers. 75 of our colleagues assaulted. Six bitten. One sexually assaulted. One in hospital. This is absolutely disgusting. No wonder our members dread policing this event. #ProtectTheProtectors pic.twitter.com/H92rhOWR9a  Metropolitan Police Federation (@MPFed) August 29, 2023

Ms Hall told LBC: Its very upsetting and Im afraid we have this every single year. Its an incredible thing, the Notting Hill Carnival. I would just say move it. Move it to where it can be policed much better than where it is now.

Because its so good and so successful, very, very many people go there, so its very, very difficult to police, so Id be urging people to look at somewhere else it could go.

Asked where it should be moved to, she added: Perhaps to a park. And let the organisers look and see where they would like it to be moved to.

Of course, it is up to everybody else, its not up to me at this specific point. I just comment that every year  all the accidents, all the stabbings, all the various things that go on that we would not want.

And I talk to police officers daily, and they dont want to be there, quite frankly, because they know that they are in danger.

Police at Notting Hill Carnival (Yui Mok/PA)

The Metropolitan Police Federation tweeted: Once again Notting Hill Carnival marred by serious violence  and attacks on Police Officers. 75 of our colleagues assaulted. Six bitten. One sexually assaulted. One in hospital.

This is absolutely disgusting. No wonder our members dread policing this event.

It is expected more than two million people would have taken to the streets of west London by the end of the bank holiday as the carnival, Europes biggest street party, celebrated two landmark anniversaries.

A spokesman for Mr Khan said: The Notting Hill Carnival is one of the worlds biggest street festivals and is part of the very fabric of our city.

It was born out of the Caribbean community in north Kensington and Notting Hill, and the mayor believes that its only right that this remains its home.
Russian servicemen at a Victory Day military parade rehearsal in central Moscow on 4 May, 2023. (Getty Images)

Russia is struggling to meet its military recruitment targets, despite offering "increasingly lucrative" salaries to servicemen during the course of the Ukraine war, the UK's Ministry of Defence has said.

On 4 February 2022, the day the Kremlin's forces launched their full-scale invasion, Vladimir Putin noted that a lieutenant would receive 81,200 rubles, which would be worth around 675 today.

As the war dragged on, Putin said even mobilised private soldiers would receive 195,000 rubles per month, now worth 1,620.

Money offered to troops has kept on climbing, with the MoD claiming that "many junior ranks serving in Ukraine are now on over 200,000 rubles (about 1,660 per month).

To put this in relative terms, this is over 2.7 times Russia's national average salary of 72,851 rubles. The MoD adds: "By way of comparison, 2.7 times the average UK salary would equate to over 90,000 a year."

Read more: Vladimir Putin agrees first foreign trip since arrest warrant issued - report

Latest Defence Intelligence update on the situation in Ukraine  29 August 2023



Find out more about Defence Intelligence's use of language: https://t.co/nSWXfviLbk



 #StandWithUkraine  pic.twitter.com/I7HUGt2OsV  Ministry of Defence  (@DefenceHQ) August 29, 2023

The ministry concludes: "It is highly likely that the salary and additional benefits are a strong incentive for personnel to join up, especially to those from the poorer areas of Russia. However, Russia is still unlikely to meet its targets for recruiting volunteers to the ranks."

Having lost tens of thousands of men in the war, the Kremlin has been trying to boost its military's numbers, with Russia voting in July to raise the maximum age at which men can be conscripted to 30 years from 27.

This increased the number of young men liable for a year of compulsory military service at any one time.

Last year, Russia announced a plan to boost its professional and conscripted combat personnel by more than 30% to 1.5 million, an ambitious task made harder by its heavy but undisclosed casualties in Ukraine.

Read more: Russian mercenaries bury Prigozhin's logistics chief

Conscripts cannot legally be deployed to fight outside Russia and were in theory exempted from a limited mobilisation last autumn that gathered at least 300,000 men with previous military training to fight in Ukraine - although some conscripts were sent to the front in error.

However, Russia unilaterally claimed four Ukrainian regions as its own last September - in a move not recognised internationally - fuelling fears that raw conscripts could now legally be sent into battle.

Read more: 'Collapse in morale' could trigger another mutiny in Russia, ex-MI6 chief predicts

The illegal and unprovoked invasion of Ukraine is continuing.



The map below is the latest Defence Intelligence update on the situation in Ukraine  29 August 2023



Find out more about Defence Intelligence's use of language: https://t.co/D9kZT12Ypx#StandWithUkraine  pic.twitter.com/8sIUi9hZUi  Ministry of Defence  (@DefenceHQ) August 29, 2023

In an attempt to tighten its grip over would-be fighters, Putin signed a law in April allowing for electronic draft notices to be sent to conscripts, closing a loophole that allowed people to avoid military service.

Russia has also been running a propaganda campaign, emotionally manipulating men into signing up, with wives of soldiers and other women frequently appealing to their masculinity on TV news interviews, according to the New York Times.

Moscow's heavy losses in Ukraine and an uncertain chance of victory could help explain its struggle to recruit enough soldiers, but it could also have something to do with reports of increasing delays to soldiers' payments.

Residents of 52 Russian regions, as well as the annexed Crimean peninsula, complained that their relatives fighting in Ukraine had either been receiving delayed or partial payments, according to the Moscow Times, citing a report by independent outlet Verstka

Watch: Kremlin says Vladimir Putin not planning to attend Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin's funeral

Some said they hadn't been paid at all, with both professional soldiers and conscripts reportedly affected by the mismanagement.

Valentina Melnikova, who heads the Committee of Soldiers' Mothers of Russia, blamed Russia's military bureaucracy and its struggle to keep track of the number of additional soldiers dragged into the war.

She told Verstka: "We've never had so many people involved in conflicts before... There is no experience of working with such personnel."

Writing on Russian social media, one frustrated family member said: "My brother hasn't been paid for two months. Will we start fighting for free, or what?"
Thousands of Afghans who fought under the command of the CIA for years and provided security for American intelligence officers say they face a debilitating legal limbo in the U.S. and are appealing to Congress and the Biden administration for help.

About 10,000 to 12,000 members of the Afghan National Strike Unit, a clandestine force known as the Zero Units, were evacuated from Afghanistan when the U.S. military withdrew from the country in August 2021. But their two-year work permits in the U.S. are due to expire within days or weeks, and the veterans worry they will no longer be able to support their families  and some worry the work they did for the CIA may even be harming their chances of getting green cards.

A former Afghan commander with the strike force, Gen. Mohammad Shah, wrote a letter warning lawmakers last month that his former troops are in urgent crisis and pleading for action to resolve their status.

Without your help, we are trapped, Shah wrote in the letter, which obtained by NBC News.

Recently, there have been cases of suicide within our community driven by the overwhelming sentiment of helplessness we feel as our requests for immigration assistance go ignored by the U.S. Government, Shah wrote.

Nasir Andar, a veteran of the force, said his comrades are struggling with depression as the clock ticks on their work permits.

Some of them are feeling hopeless. They dont know what to do, said Andar, who is the chief of community engagement at a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping the veterans. We are trying to guide them and boost their morale.

Nasir Andar on a flight in Afghanistan. (FAMIL)

At least two veterans from the CIA-trained force have taken their lives since arriving in the U.S., according to Andar and other advocates at FAMIL, the nonprofit trying to help the veterans.

Since they arrived in the U.S. two years ago, most of the veterans of the force have not received special immigrant U.S. visas  which were created for Afghans and Iraqis who worked for the U.S. government. Without those visas, the veterans cannot apply for green cards, leaving them in a legal gray zone.

The veterans were promised proper legal status in consideration for our service to the U.S. government on the battlefield, Shah wrote in his letter.

A spokesperson for U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services said the administration recently announced a streamlined process that will allow Afghan refugees to apply to renew their temporary legal status for two more years and continue to work in the U.S. while they apply for permanent legal residence.

This action is part of the Biden-Harris Administrations ongoing commitment to the safety, security, and well-being of the thousands of Afghan nationals who arrived in the United States after the U.S. exit from Afghanistan, the spokesperson said.

The renewal requests will be considered on a case-by-case basis for urgent humanitarian reasons and for a significant public benefit, the spokesperson added.

But advocates for the Afghan veterans say that the bureaucratic process has proven frustrating and that standard questions for green card applications do not take into account their unusual circumstances as CIA-trained operators. The applications include questions like: Have you EVER received any type of military, paramilitary, or weapons training?

When Afghan Zero Unit veterans have answered yes to that and similar questions, their applications do not seem to advance, advocates said.

Were not asking for special treatment for these families. What were advocating for is a matter of basic humanity, said Geeta Bakshi, a former CIA officer who worked with the National Strike Unit in Afghanistan.

Two Afghans in the National Strike Unit in Afghanistan. (FAMIL)

These are men and women who risked their lives on a daily basis to protect Americans during a 20-year war that a lot of Americans have forgotten about, said Bakshi, who created FAMIL to help her former Afghan colleagues. These are veterans who should be celebrated in America. I could never have imagined that theyd be so disadvantaged by our bureaucratic processes.

Advocates for the Zero Unit veterans say they were heavily vetted before they joined the force for any possible terrorism links and regularly underwent security checks, a level of screening that interpreters for the U.S. military or other Afghan employees were not subjected to. In the entire 20-year war, members of the Zero Units never launched an attack on their U.S. advisers. Such green-on-blue attacks against Americans became frequent occurrences among Afghan recruits to the army and the police force.

The Zero Units, trained and overseen by the CIA, operated under a veil of secrecy during the war, conducting combat operations and securing intelligence outposts. Even now, U.S. officials cannot explicitly acknowledge the connection between the intelligence agency and the paramilitary force as it remains classified.

The force played a crucial role in the U.S.-led effort to weaken Al Qaeda after the attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, and as its troop presence scaled back, the U.S. increasingly relied on the Zero Units to safeguard U.S. and coalition personnel, including at Kabul airport in the final days of the 20-year U.S. presence, former CIA officers said.

Afghan veterans of CIA-trained force at a reunion in Virginia. (FAMIl)

These were the guys that did a lot of heavy lifting, but their role really isnt too well known or understood, said a former CIA officer with experience in Afghanistan. It was all done with discretion built in.

The Zero Units also have faced scrutiny over their operations, with human rights organizations alleging the troops committed abuses and possible war crimes, including extrajudicial executions and attacks on medical facilities.

Afghan veterans of the force and former CIA officers who worked with them reject the allegations, saying that the Zero Units were trained in the laws of armed conflict and that each operation was carefully vetted beforehand. But some former CIA officers worry that the allegations of abuses could undermine or delay efforts to resolve the legal status of the Afghan veterans.

The CIA and its Afghan partners, unlike other forces in country, went to great lengths to avoid civilian casualties, said a former U.S. intelligence officer.

The CIA spokesperson said the U.S. takes claims of human rights abuses very seriously and undertakes extraordinary measures, beyond the minimum legal requirements to reduce civilian casualties in armed conflict and strengthen accountability for the actions of partners.

The spokesperson said that a false narrative exists about these forces that has persisted over the years due to a systemic propaganda campaign by the Taliban.

A former member of the Afghan force said the National Strike Unit operated directly under the CIAs command at all times and was not carrying out rogue operations.

We were taking every order from them. We did not shoot a single round without their permission, the Afghan veteran said.

The CIA has advocated for the Afghan veterans in discussions with the Citizenship and Immigration Services and other federal agencies, and some lawmakers have championed their cause.

A CIA spokesperson said that the U.S. made a commitment to the Afghan veterans to create a pathway to citizenship and that the process will take time, but we never forget our partners and are committed to helping those who assisted us.

The spokesperson added, We are continuing to work closely with the State Department and other U.S. government agencies on this effort.

The State Department declined to comment.

Rep. Mike Waltz, R-Fla., a member of the Intelligence, Armed Services and Foreign Affairs committees, said that if anybody deserves to be here, its the Afghans who stood alongside us against terrorism.

Waltz, a former Army Green Beret who served in Afghanistan, added, The administration should settle their status.

In the meantime, many of the Afghans from the Zero Units are feeling abandoned by the government they risked their lives for.

What we were promised, the things that we have done for this country  we werent expecting this, one Zero Units veteran said.
American Paul Whelan, imprisoned in Russia on espionage charges that he and the U.S. government have long dismissed as spurious, has made a rare appearance in a video broadcast by Russian state media. In a piece aired Monday by the Kremlin-backed Russia Today (RT) network, Whelan is seen in black overalls and a black hat in a penal colony in the Mordovia region.

The former U.S. Marine was arrested in Russia in 2018 and convicted in 2020 on espionage charges, which he denies. He's served nearly five years of his 16-year sentence.

Paul Whelan seen refusing to answer questions in a Russia state media video on August 28, 2023. / Credit: Russian state media

Sitting at a sewing machine folding green strips of material, the bespectacled U.S. national is asked by a voice off camera, "How many did you do today?"

"100," Whelan replies in Russian.

"100 units already, and what's the norm?" asks the voice.

"80," says Whelan.

"Good job," the voice replies, "production leader."

Whelan is then approached by an English-speaking RT reporter for an interview:

"Sir, you understand when I say that I can't do an interview, which means that I can't answer any questions," Whelan tells him. He is later pictured in the prison yard talking to fellow inmates and eating in the cafeteria.

"Today was the first time I've seen what he really looks like since June 2020," Whelan's brother David Whelan said in a statement seen by CBS News. "So thank you, Russia Today, because although your reporting is the worst sort of propaganda and you are the mouthpiece for war criminals, at least I could see what Paul looks like after all of these years."

David said in the emailed statement that when his brother declined a previous interview request from RT in May, "prison staff retaliated against him after he didn't participate."

"I wish I could see Paul under better circumstances. But it was good to see him again and to see the fight remains in his eyes," wrote his brother. "It is good to know Paul remains unbowed."

The Biden administration has classified Whelan as being "wrongfully detained" by Russia.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken spoke by phone with the imprisoned Whelan in mid-August, telling him to "keep the faith" and promising that the U.S. government was "doing everything we can to bring you home as soon as possible," according to a source familiar with the call who spoke with CBS News.



The call came after U.S. Ambassador to Russia Lynne Tracy was allowed to meet with another American detained in Russia, Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich, at Moscow's Lefortovo Prison. Tracy said Gershkovich "continues to appear in good health and remains strong, despite his circumstances," according to a State Department spokesperson.

The ambassador last visited Gershkovich, who was arrested on unsubstantiated espionage charges, in July, after months of protests by the U.S. that diplomatic officials were being denied access to him. Gershkovich, his employer and U.S. officials have dismissed the charges against him as baseless, too.

The U.S. has been trying to negotiate the release of Whelan and Gershkovich, whom the U.S. has also designated as being wrongfully detained, but national security adviser Jake Sullivan said in July that the discussions "have not produced a clear pathway to a resolution."

President Biden said last month that he was "serious" about pursuing a prisoner exchange when asked about Gershkovich's detention in Russia.

"I'm serious about doing all we can to free Americans being illegally held in Russia, or anywhere else for that matter, and that process is underway," Mr. Biden told reporters during a news conference in Helsinki, Finland.

The U.S. carried out prisoner swaps with Russia in 2022 to secure the release of WNBA star Brittney Griner and Marine veteran Trevor Reed, who were both wrongfully detained in Russia after Whelan's arrest.

Whelan and his family have voiced concern that he could be left behind again as the U.S. also seeks the release of Gershkovich.

Roger Carstens, the special presidential envoy for hostage affairs at the U.S. State Department, said in June that a phone call from Whelan after Griner's release was "one of the toughest phone calls" he has ever had.

"At 9:30 in the morning, Paul Whelan called me from Russia. He was allowed to make a phone call and I had to spend 30 minutes on the phone telling him what happened and why we were unable to get him out at that time," Carstens said at the Aspen Ideas Festival in Colorado.

"And I said, 'Paul, the Russians gave us one deal. It was Brittney, or no one,'" Carstens said. "'There was no opportunity to get you out. And we're not going to stop. My foot is on the gas pedal. We're going 110 miles an hour. We will not relent until we bring you home.'"



Ivan Kashchenko contributed to this report.

Breaking down Biden's drug price plan and the challenges it faces

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Paul Whelan seen in Russian prison in rare video
If youve ever had a crying baby seated near you during a flight, you know how disruptive it can be. This past April, a man had an outburst on a Southwest flight when a crying baby woke him up.

One airline is trying to avoid that by being the first in Europe with dedicated seating zone for passengers 16 years or older.

Turkish-Dutch Corendon Airlines is testing the Only Adult zones on flights between Amsterdam and Curacao starting in November, according to a press release.

More: The middle seat doesnt get both armrests: What travelers said is good airplane etiquette

This area will be located at the front of the Airbus A350-900 aircraft and consists of nine XL seats with additional legroom and 93 standard seats.

There will be walls and curtains separating the Only Adult zone from the rest of the plane, making it ideal for travelers without children and business travelers who want to work in a quiet environment, according to a press release.

The Corendon fleet, where some of the Airbus A350-900 aircrafts will have designated "Only Adult" zones.

With the new seating arrangement, families can also breathe a little easier knowing they wont be disturbing childless passengers.

Unfortunately, sitting away from children will cost you a little extra. For a one-way ticket, the zone will cost an extra 45 euros, or just under $49. For an XL seat, itll be an extra 100 euros, or about $108.

We are also the first Dutch airline to introduce the Only Adult zone, because we cater trying to appeal to travelers looking for some extra peace of mind during their flight, said Atilay Uslu, founder of Corendon, in a statement. We also believe this can have a positive effect on parents traveling with small children. They can enjoy the flight without worrying if their children make more noise.

There are several other international airlines that have done similar seating arrangements with their flights, such as the Singaporean low-budget Scoot airlines Scoot-in-Silence cabins, where passengers need to be 12 and up.

Kathleen Wong is a travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Hawaii. You can reach her at kwong@usatoday.com

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: This European airline will have adults-only seating on its flights
Republican presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy may be a fan of famed rapper Eminem, but the feeling, it appears, is not mutual.

The Daily Mail reported Monday that the rapper has objected to Ramaswamy, a biotech entrepreneur from Ohio who is surging in the polls, using his music on the campaign trail. A spokesperson for Ramaswamy's campaign confirmed the report to the Des Moines Register.

Ramaswamy went viral earlier this month after he rapped Eminem's 2002 hit "Lose Yourself," his favorite campaign walk-out song, at the Iowa State Fair during an appearance with Gov. Kim Reynolds.

2024 Vivek Ramaswamy sees Iowa crowds grow after Republican debate showing

Music licenser BMI sent a letter to a Ramaswamy campaign lawyer that says Eminem's works are no longer part of a music licensing agreement following a request from Eminem, according to the Daily Mail.

"Vivek just got on the stage and cut loose. To the American peoples chagrin, we will have to leave the rapping to the real Slim Shady, Ramaswamy campaign spokesperson Tricia McLaughlin said.

Ramaswamy has risen in national polling for the 2024 Republican presidential primaries in recent weeks, with a current average of about 10.1%, according to FiveThirtyEight.

Former President Donald Trump still dominates in polls, followed by Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis and Ramaswamy.

In Iowa, Ramaswamy polled at 4% in a recent Des Moines Register/NBC News/Mediacom poll, behind six other candidates.

He barnstormed the state in recent weeks following a high-profile appearance at the first Republican primary debate in Milwaukee last week.

Chris Higgins covers the eastern suburbs for the Register. Reach him at chiggins@registermedia.com or 515-423-5146 and follow him on Twitter @chris_higgins_.

This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: Eminem wants 2024 Republican Vivek Ramaswamy to stop using his music
Georgias top elections official received a phone call from Donald Trump on 2 January, 2021, with a warning that he would be taking a big risk declaring Joe Biden the victor weeks after then-President Trump lost the state in the 2020 presidential election.

I just want to find 11,780 votes, then-President Trump told Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger during the hour-long call, four days before a joint session of Congress convened to certify the electoral college results  a ceremony violently interrupted by a mob of Mr Trumps supporters.

Mr Raffensperger, a Republican, told a federal courtroom on 28 August that Mr Trumps outreach to that extent was extraordinary.

That call is central to a sweeping racketeering indictment from state prosecutors charging Mr Trump and 18 co-defendants for their alleged criminal enterprise to keep him in power at whatever cost.

Mr Trumps former White House chief of staff Mark Meadows, who was on that call, is asking a judge to remove the case from the jurisdiction of Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis and into federal court. Mr Meadows also testified during the hearing on Monday.

Mr Raffensperger, who was subpoenaed by Ms Willis to appear in US District Court in Atlanta, testified that he believed a call with White House would be inappropriate.

I told my deputy I dont think this is in our best interest, he said, according to CNN.

He also said he did not initially return a call because Mr Meadows didnt leave him a phone number.

Mr Meadows sent a text message to Mr Raffensperger in December 2020 asking him to call the White House switchboard because his voice mailbox was full, according to messages he provided to the House select committee separately investigating the events surrounding the attack on the US Capitol on 6 January, 2021

Prosecutors played audio clips from the call during the hearing; Mr Raffensperger noted that there were no officials from the US Department of Justice or the White House counsels office on the call.

I thought that it was a campaign call, Mr Raffensperger said.

He also stressed that neither the White House nor presidential campaigns play any role in the state certification of election outcomes  an argument that undermines arguments from Mr Meadows and his attorneys that he was merely fulfilling his duties as part of his federal duties on behalf of the president.

Asked by prosecutors whether he believed Mr Trump won the 2020 election, Mr Raffensperger said: They lost the election.

Defending the integrity of the states election results and ongoing attempts to undermine them, he said: We spoke the truth.

Mondays hearing comes two weeks after a Fulton County grand jury indictment presented the largest and most significant case yet facing Mr Trump and others connected to an alleged racketeering scheme in which they knowingly and willfully joined a conspiracy to unlawfully change the outcome of the election to ensure he remained in power.

Mr Meadows faces two counts in the sprawling 41-count indictment outlining dozens of acts that encompass the conspiracy: one count of violating Georgias Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act, or RICO statute, and one count of solicitation of violation of oath by a public officer.

The 19 defendants were booked in Fulton County jail and released on bond last week. They are scheduled to appear in court for their arraignment hearings on 5 September.

Mark Meadows, Brad Raffensperger and others testified in Atlanta on 28 August following the former White House chief of staffs attempt to remove the Georgia racketeering case from Fulton County to federal court (Getty Images)

Attorneys for Mr Meadows have asked for the prompt removal of the case from Fulton County, citing federal law that allows US officials to remove civil or criminal trials from state court over alleged actions performed under color of their offices, with Mr Meadows performing such acts during his tenure as White House chief of staff, they wrote in court filings.

Prosecutors, however, have argued that Mr Meadows was acting on behalf of the Trump campaign, performing acts that were all unquestionably political in nature and therefore, by definition, outside the lawful scope of his authority as chief of staff.

Even if the defendant somehow had been acting as authorized under federal law (rather than directly contrary to it), that authority would be negated by the evidence of his personal interest, malice, actual criminal intent, they wrote.
Former Trump White House official Peter Navarro testified in federal court Monday that former President Trump made it very clear executive privilege should be invoked over testimony he was subpoenaed to give the House Jan. 6 committee investigating the Capitol attack last year.

Navarro was charged with contempt of Congress after refusing to cooperate with a congressional investigation into the Jan. 6, 2021, Capitol attack. The two counts stem from his failure to appear for a deposition before the House committee investigating the attack and for failing to produce documents requested by the committee. He has pleaded not guilty.

It was clear during that call that privilege was invoked  very clear, Navarro said Monday of a Feb. 20, 2022, call with Trump, which came days after Navarro had been subpoenaed by the House panel, according to multiple reports.

He later added there was no question that the privilege had been invoked from the get-go  none.

Justice Department prosecutors have argued in multiple executive privilege battles that only the current president  not the former one  holds the power to block officials from testifying.

Judge Amit Mehta, who is overseeing Navarros case, called Navarros defense arguments pretty weak sauce and noted that the court still did not know what Trump had said to the former White House aide to leave him with the impression that executive privilege had been invoked, according to the reports.

Former White House adviser Steve Bannon was also charged with  and later convicted of  two counts of contempt of Congress for evading the House Jan. 6 committee. Bannon was sentenced to four months in prison, though he has not yet served that time after a judge said he could remain free pending appeal.

Navarro served as an economic adviser to Trump and promoted his false claims of election fraud after the 2020 presidential election.

Navarro was appearing for a pretrial hearing over whether his own testimony can be used in his contempt trial set to begin Sept. 5. A ruling is expected Wednesday.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
The National Park Service (NPS) has issued a warning that E. coli bacteria have been found in the park's water supply at Grand Canyon, Arizona.

Water at Phantom Ranch, a resort at the bottom of the southern end of the Grand Canyon in Arizona, was advised to be boiled as a precautionary measure in a report made on Friday, August 25. The NPS warned that these germs may make you ill and are especially dangerous for those with compromised immune systems.

"Bacterial contamination can occur when increased run-off enters the drinking water source (for example, following heavy rains)," the agency added, as reported by the New York Post. "It can also happen due to a break in the distribution system (pipes) or a failure in the water treatment process."

In order to destroy microorganisms, the NPS recommends boiling the water for one minute every 1,000 feet of elevation before using it for drinking, brushing teeth, cleaning dishes, producing ice, or cooking. Water from a bottle is another viable option.

At this moment, it has not been discovered that E. coli exists in any other locations other than Phantom Ranch.

See Also: Rhode Island: Tick-Borne Disease Kills 80-Year-Old Woman; Everything We Know About Powassan Virus

E. Coli Symptoms According to Experts

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) report that E. coli, or Escherichia coli, is a common form of bacterium that may be discovered in soil, water, and animal and human digestive systems.

Sickness brought on by certain strains includes, but is not limited to, the following: severe stomach pains, diarrhea (sometimes bloody), vomiting, respiratory sickness, urinary tract infections, and pneumonia.

Although symptoms often appear 3-4 days after ingesting E. coli-contaminated food or drink, they may appear as early as one day or as late as ten days later.

Most individuals get well without treatment within five to seven days, but others become very sick and need hospitalization.

Diarrhea that lasts more than three days, diarrhea with a temperature higher than 102 F, bloody diarrhea, or vomiting so severe that you cannot keep liquids down and pass very little urine, should prompt a visit to a doctor, as recommended by the CDC.

According to the CDC, some persons who have E. coli may develop a condition known as hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), which can result in the failure of the kidneys or other life-threatening problems.

Those suffering from HUS may experience profound exhaustion, reduced urine, and loss of color in the face and lower eyelids.

The NPS has said that it is taking action to address the problem by making control system adjustments and resuming the chlorination process.

"We are increasing sampling for coliform bacteria to determine the source of the contamination. We will inform you when tests show no bacteria, and you no longer need to boil your water," the announcement reads.

See Also: Scientists Develop Cows That Produce 50% Less Methane, Major Breakthrough in the Fight Against Climate Change

@ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
After receiving two buyout offers in the past month, U.S. Steel said Tuesday it is in the process of reviewing multiple offers for the storied company and symbol of American industrialization.

U.S. Steel rejected a $7.3 billion buyout proposal from rival Cleveland-Cliffs two weeks ago, and that offer was followed by $7.8 billion bid from the industrial conglomerate Esmark. Shares of the Pittsburgh steelmaker soared more than 30% on speculation that a deal was imminent.

In a letter to shareholders Tuesday, U.S. Steel said it had entered into confidentiality agreements with numerous third parties and was beginning to share due diligence information with potential buyers.

Our number one obligation is to uphold our fiduciary duties, the company wrote in the letter. This means that we are focused on the path forward for our Company that drives the most value for you  our stockholders.

It's shares climbed another 3% Tuesday.

The proposal by Cleveland-Cliffs, first made on July 28, would create a company that would be among the 10 biggest steelmakers in the world and one of the top four outside of China, which dominates global steel production today. Cleveland-Cliffs CEO Lourenco Goncalves said a tie-up between the two U.S. steelmakers would create lower-cost, more innovative and stronger domestic supplier for our customers.

Goncalves has said that he's ready to continue talks with 122-year-old U.S. Steel despite the rejection of its initial offer.

Soaring prices have helped fuel consolidation in the steel industry this decade. Steel prices more than quadrupled near the start of the pandemic to near $2,000 per metric ton by the summer of 2021 as supply chains experienced gridlock, a symptom of surging demand for goods and the lack of anticipation of that demand.

Cleveland Cliffs acquired AK Steel in 2019 right before steel prices began to spike and within a year, it acquired ArcelorMittal USA in 2020 for $1.4 billion. U.S. Steel bought Big River Steel the following year.

Prices have settled back to around $800 per metric ton, but that remains at the top end of the spectrum for steel prices over the past six years.

U.S. Steel has been a symbol of industrialization since it was founded in 1901 by J.P. Morgan, Andrew Carnegie and others, and the domestic steel industry dominated globally before Japan, then China, became the preeminent steelmakers over the past 40 years.
Trump mug shot mugs | Screenshot via Winred.com

With miraculous speed, America's e-commerce merchants have converted Donald Trump's mug shot from iconic historic image to commercial kitsch.

Trump was booked in the Fulton County Jail outside Atlanta, Georgia, on election rigging charges this past Thursday evening. Before the sun had set, the jailhouse image of the scowling former president was being plastered on every form of clothing, accessory, and dish imaginable.

Whether one is in the market for a Trump mug-shot mug or a Trump mug-shot shot glass, there are dozens of options for each available on Etsy, Amazon, and numerous other online stores.

The public release of mug shots is a controversial practice, with critics reasonably arguing the release serves only to rob defendants of their dignity and their right to be presumed innocent until proven guilty. Those same arguments apply to President Donald Trump, argued Reason's Billy Binion last week.

Nevertheless, the person cashing in the most on Trump's mug shot appears to be Trump himself. Almost all the featured items in his campaign's merchandise store are mug shotthemed hats, shirts, mugs, and stickers bearing a "never surrender" caption.

Politico reports that as of Saturday, the Trump campaign has raked in $7.1 million off mug-shot merch.

And that's just the official haul. The former president is getting a lot of positive, earned media from the countless other MAGA merchants, influencers, and allies selling mug-shot gear with captions like "Thug Life," "Not Guilty," and "Wanted for President."

There's also been an explosion of more mocking and denigrating Trump mug-shot merch on the other side of the aisle.

The anti-Trump charlatans at the Lincoln Project are selling the former president's arrest photo on shot glasses with a "FAFO" (fuck around, find out) inscription. For a bit more money, one can get a whole set of mug-shot shot glasses featuring Trump's co-defendants in the Georgia case.

The band Green Day is sticking it to the man by selling a new T-shirt featuring Trump's mug shot in the style of their Nimrod album cover. (Who said punk was dead?)

Then there are the countless T-shirts and mug-shot mugs with more critical captions like "Make Mug Shots Great Again," "My Ass Got Arrested," and "Guilty Pleasure" (the latter can be found on custom wine labels).

Many of the people purchasing these items are doing it out of ideological solidarity with Trump or his liberal foes. Many more, it appears, are just having fun with the ridiculousness of it all.

The lack of any clear trademark or copyright protections on the mug shot released by the Fulton County jail is allowing this bipartisan creativity to flourish. Everyone from the former president himself to his fiercest critics can profit off the image without restriction.

More remarkable still is how the trucking and bartering of Trump's mug shot is managing to simultaneously satisfy the mutually exclusive preferences of millions of Americans. Both supporters and detractors can find some swag that will allow them to express exactly how they feel about the divisive former president.

Regardless of whether you want the man himself in the White House, in prison, or neither, everyone can get a healthy slice of consumer surplus from a Trump mug shot mug or shower curtain.

The joy of each purchaser need not come at the expense of anyone else, regardless of their motivations.

The same isn't true of the electoral and judicial processes that Trump is wrapped up in. He'll either win or lose the presidency. He'll either be acquitted or convicted in court.

The desires of Trump critics and supporters can't both be satisfied by a political system that only produces binary outcomes. One side is going to be disappointed.

Markets, and the voluntary, mutually beneficial transactions that make them up, can navigate these intractable divides with ease. The bipartisan boom in Trump merch gives a window into a world where more of people's political passions were devoted to mutually enriching commercial endeavors.

Perhaps we can't force all party politics to play out on Etsy. The more of it that does, the better off we'll be and the less cause for division and rancor we'll have in everyday life.

The post Bipartisan Boom in Trump Mug Shot Merchandise Demonstrates the Healing Power of Commerce appeared first on Reason.com.
Erika Girardi, left, and Chris Psaila. Psaila was charged by federal prosecutors in 2017 with swindling more than $800,000 from Girardi, the wife of Tom Girardi. Psaila sued Girardi, her two assistants, American Express and current and former U.S. Secret Service agents on Tuesday. (Wally Skalij; Francine Orr / Los Angeles Times)

The co-owner of a Hollywood costume firm filed a lawsuit Tuesday against reality TV star Erika Girardi, two of her staff members, current and former U.S. Secret Service agents and American Express, alleging corruption among federal law enforcement to benefit Girardi and her once-influential husband, former Los Angeles attorney Tom Girardi.

In the 70-page suit, Christopher Psaila accuses Erika Girardi and her estranged husband of having weaponized the Secret Service to maliciously prosecute him in 2017 to secure a $787,000 refund from American Express at a time when the Girardi family was "in desperate financial straits."

Read more:The Girardis, the Secret Service and wire fraud claims that nearly ruined a Hollywood designer

Psaila is the co-owner of costume merchant Marco Marco, which has designed outfits for a variety of pop stars. He alleged that Erika Girardi, along with her assistant and choreographer, knew she had purchased and received scores of costumes and services from the firm in 2015 and 2016. But they falsely claimed to federal agents and to American Express that the store's charges to her credit card were unauthorized, according to the suit.

Pasaila also contends that the Secret Service conducted a reckless investigation into Erika Girardi's claims and deliberately ignored facts that would help exonerate him. In the suit, he alleges that current and former Secret Service agents concealed evidence that would have either prevented his indictment or led to an acquittal at trial.

The case draws on an investigation by The Times published in February that documented Girardis friendship with the head of the Secret Services office in L.A., Rob Savage, and the free legal work that Girardi provided Savage.

The Times reported how Girardi began representing Savage in a pending lawsuit against Volkswagen over a defect in his minivan. When Girardi could not secure a better settlement and his efforts fizzled, he personally paid Savage at least $7,500. At the time, agents under Savage were investigating Psaila.

Savage is one of the three current or former Secret Service officials named as defendants in the lawsuit, which casts Girardi's legal work as a "bribe and quid pro quo" to Savage.

This case reflects the corruption of the federal judicial system, Psailas lawsuit states. The Secret Service and United States should have never presented the case to the grand jury for indictment, and never proceeded with the prosecution.

A spokesperson for the Secret Service declined to answer questions, citing a policy of not commenting on pending litigation.

Evan Borges, an attorney representing Erika Girardi, dismissed the lawsuit as a ploy timed with his client's new Las Vegas residency and suggested the evidence of corruption was thin: "Tom Girardis representation of a single federal agent in an unrelated civil lawsuit."

"Federal prosecutors made the decision to charge plaintiff with crimes, no one else," Borges said. "The notion that Erika controlled the U.S. Government, or for that matter a Fortune 100 company such as American Express, is fantasy."

Erika Girardi told The Times earlier this year that she remained convinced that Psaila had falsely billed her for hundreds of thousands of dollars.

"In no way did I pull a scam to get $760,000 to help anybody get this money," she said earlier this year. Erika Girardi noted that as part of the criminal investigation, she had worn a wire and conducted an undercover recording of Psaila.

On the recording, Erika Girardi is joined by her assistant and her choreographer in a meeting at Psaila's office. Confronted with accusations of false charges, Psaila acknowledged excess billing of just over $100,000 that he blamed on a bookkeeper who he said, falsely, had been responsible for running the cards, according to a copy of the recording reviewed by The Times.

In the lawsuit Tuesday, Psaila's attorneys allege that the covert recording was an entrapment attempt and insist that the audio "reveals nothing more than an innocent merchant attempting to follow a well-known rule of retail business: 'The customer is always right.'"

A spokesperson for American Express told The Times that the company did not initiate the criminal probe of Psaila, adding, "We followed our regular processes and procedures throughout this investigation as we dealt with law enforcement. ... We did not play any role in the criminal investigation of Mr. Psaila or his business other than responding to inquiries from law enforcement."

Savage, who retired in 2018, did not respond to a request for comment on the suit. He previously denied any exchange of favors, saying via email that the credit card inquiry and his minivan case with Tom Girardi were completely unrelated. Savage said he had maintained a friendship with the former lawyer, saying he occasionally dined with Mr. Girardi always as a friend and within ethics guidelines.

Savage said in the earlier email that he introduced Erika Girardi to one of his deputies so she could report fraudulent credit card charges, but he said the deputy "managed the investigation without any involvement from me." He asserted he was not "directly" involved in the indictment.

At the time, Savage also acknowledged that that deputy and other agents on the case did not know he had hired Girardi for a personal legal matter, nor did he inform his supervisors about it.

Psaila was indicted on nine counts in 2017, including wire fraud and aggravated identity theft. But he insisted on his innocence and put together a dossier of text messages, receipts and photos that he said substantiated the charges on the Girardis American Express card.

In 2021, federal prosecutors quietly moved to dismiss the case against him.

The lawsuit filed Tuesday includes two dozen pages of photos, text messages, and billing records that Psaila said prove "beyond all doubt" that he and Marco Marco provided the costumes and services that the indictment claimed were phony or unauthorized. Psaila's suit asserts that he has similar proof for all of the transactions that were the basis of the refund issued to the Girardis by American Express.

Psaila's suit notes that American Express only reversed the charge on one transaction  for $4,500  and that to this day, Marco Marco and Psaila are free to use American Express at their business.

The lawsuit seeks $18.2 million in general damages along with unspecified punitive damages. Psaila also filed a separate claim Tuesday against the Secret Service for $75 million.

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Parts of New York City were heavily flooded on Sept. 29, 2023. (Fatih Aktas/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images)

Severe storms hit New York City on Friday, and officials said the region could get up to 8 inches of rain.

New York and New Jersey were both under states of emergency after heavy rains flooded parts of both states, leaving pedestrians and drivers stranded as roadways were inundated with floodwaters.

Toxic waters

Floodwaters can be dangerous for several reasons, regardless of whether the flooding occurs in built-up areas like cities or coastal neighborhoods. Floodwaters can hide an array of harmful elements including human sewage, industrial hazardous waste and physical objects such as downed trees or power lines. It is important to stay away from flooded areas when possible  especially when injured.

According to the Centers for Disease, Control and Prevention, exposure to contaminated floodwater can cause a wound to become infected, as well as skin rashes and gastrointestinal illness.

It is important to protect yourself from exposure to floodwater regardless of the source of contamination, the CDC states on its website. The best way to protect yourself is to stay out of the water. If you come into contact with floodwaters, wash yourself as soon as you can with soap and water or with sanitizer.

If you must travel through floodwaters, protect yourself as much as you can. The CDC recommends wearing rubber boots, rubber gloves and goggles.

Read more from Yahoo News

Drowning risk

No matter how calm floodwaters look and no matter how good you are at swimming, these waters can always be a drowning risk, especially for children. It is important to follow any flooding warnings that have been issued by local authorities and never cross into flooded roads. The same goes when traveling in a car. The CDC warns that cars or other vehicles wont protect you from floodwaters. Vehicles can be swept away even in slow-moving floodwaters.

Cars struggle in a flooded street in Brooklyn, N.Y., on Sept. 29, 2023. (Fatih Aktas/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images)

Mosquito-linked illnesses

The number of mosquitos in an area after it has been flooded increases, as they breed in stagnant water. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, anyone who is able to drain rain gutters and empty pools, buckets and containers should do so as immediately as possible. The quicker the elimination of such breeding grounds for mosquitoes, the less chance there is for someone to become infected with a mosquito-borne illness.
MOSCOW (Reuters) -Prominent Russian nationalist Igor Girkin failed in an appeal on Tuesday against his pre-trial detention on charges of inciting extremism, a Moscow court said.

Girkin, also known as Strelkov, has fiercely criticised the way that Russia has conducted the war in Ukraine. He is best known in the West for having been convicted by a Dutch court over the shooting down of a Malaysian passenger plane with the loss of 298 lives over eastern Ukraine in 2014.

His case is being closely watched as an indication of how far the Kremlin will tolerate aggressive criticism of its war effort in Ukraine, where Russia has failed to advance for months after being forced to retreat from large areas it seized in the conflict's early months.

Yevgeny Prigozhin, the Wagner mercenary leader who had conducted a running feud with the defence minister and top military command, was killed in an unexplained plane crash on Aug. 23. The Kremlin has rejected as an "absolute lie" suggestions in the West that Putin ordered his death.

Girkin's lawyer Alexander Molokhov told Reuters last month that the case against him was based on something Girkin had written on the messaging app Telegram on May 25.

Girkin had complained that authorities in the Russian-controlled part of Ukraine's Donetsk region had failed for the previous three months to provide any support payments to families of men who had been called up to fight against Ukraine.

Girkin posted that "to have someone shot for such a thing would be too little". The lawyer told Reuters that he admitted writing the post but did not agree that it amounted to extremism or incitement.

The 52-year-old faces up to five years in prison if convicted. The court, in rejecting his appeal, confirmed an earlier ruling to remand him in custody until Sept. 18.

Girkin is a former officer of Russia's FSB security service who organised pro-Russian militias to fight Ukrainian government forces in eastern Ukraine in 2014.

A Dutch court has convicted him in absentia for his role in the shooting-down of Malaysia Airlines Flight 17 over Ukraine in July of that year. He has denied he was involved.

Girkin told Reuters in May that a major crisis was brewing in Russia so he was setting up a new political group. "We are on the cusp of very grave internal political changes of a catastrophic character," Girkin said.

(Reporting by Filipp Lebevev, Writing by Mark Trevelyan; editing by Guy Faulconbridge)
TAIPEI (Reuters) -Taiwan's defence ministry warned on Tuesday of a possible "sharp increase" in military tensions after reporting renewed Chinese military activity including fighter jets crossing the sensitive median line of the Taiwan Strait.

Democratically governed Taiwan, which China claims as its own territory, has complained for three years of increased military pressure from Beijing, mostly in the form of China's air force flying near the island.

The ministry said that on Tuesday morning, it spotted 12 Chinese military aircraft in its air defence identification zone, of which seven crossed the median line - six J-10 fighters and a single drone.

Five Chinese ships also carried out "combat readiness patrols", the ministry said, without giving a location.

The median line had for years served as an unofficial barrier between the two sides, until China's air force began regularly crossing it a year ago.

"The continued military harassment by the Communist military in the region may lead to a sharp increase in tensions and worsen regional security," the ministry said, calling on Beijing to "immediately stop such unilateral acts".

Maintaining the peaceful and stable status quo in the Taiwan Strait is critical to the security and prosperity of the Indo-Pacific region, and all parties, including Beijing, have a common responsibility to uphold it, the ministry added.

The latest Chinese mission happened the same day Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an, from Taiwan's main opposition party the Kuomintang which traditionally favours close relations with Beijing, arrived in Shanghai for annual city-to-city talks.

His office said the city government has many times reiterated that "the more difficult the environment is, the more the two sides should communicate".

"What the people of Taiwan want is peace and prosperity. This is the voice of the people and the firm position of the city government," it said.

Speaking to reporters before leaving for Shanghai, Chiang said the city forum was a good way to keep communication channels open and send a message of "peaceful values".

Taipei city councillors for Taiwan's governing Democratic Progressive Party issued a joint statement saying Chiang should "speak for the Taiwanese people" and demand an end to China's military activities.

(Reporting by Ben Blanchard; Editing by Muralikumar Anantharaman, Simon Cameron-Moore and Bernadette Baum)
Idalia strengthened to a Category 1 hurricane on Tuesday morning as it barreled toward Florida's Gulf Coast, where it could become a Category 3 hurricane before it's forecast to make landfall on Wednesday morning as the United States' first major hurricane of the season.

Hurricane warnings and watches are in effect, while evacuation orders are being issued for more than 20 counties along the state's Gulf Coast as the National Hurricane Center warned of "life-threatening storm surge inundation." Here's a list of evacuation orders from the New York Times.

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis has also activated the National Guard. This is going to be a major impact, he said during a press conference Monday, warning that residents should prepare for the storm to be a Category 3 or higher.

Read more from Yahoo News:Where is Storm Idalia? See radars tracking the storm, via Naples Daily News

Yahoo News spoke with Joel Cline, a tropical meteorologist with the NHC, about what to know if youve been told to evacuate ahead of a hurricane. Some responses have been lightly edited for length and clarity.

1. Top things to do to prepare for an evacuation

The No. 1 thing you want to take is a large sealable plastic bag to protect all the important papers that you don't want ruined in a flood: insurance certificates, proof of ownership, family photos.

Read more from Yahoo News:Can you get home insurance while Idalia targets Florida? What to know before the storm, via Miami Herald

The basics for survival: your clothes and food that you want to take. If youve got a pet, make sure the place you're going will allow a pet to stay. A lot of times, places that prepare food will not allow pets because they don't want the risk of food getting contaminated. Thats why its important to plan ahead.

Read more from Yahoo News:Hurricane season with pets: How to include furry friends as Idalia approaches, via the Fort Myers News-Press

Also, since gasoline lines are going to be long and grocery and hardware stores are going to be packed, be sure to get an early start on supplies.

2. Evacuate if and when local officials tell you to

If youre in a hurricane evacuation zone and local officials are telling you to leave, do it.

People often engage in so-called anchoring  that is, they latch on to a fact that supports what they want to hear, like the storm wont be as bad as it could be, so they make a decision based on hope instead of facts.

Read more from Yahoo News:Here's what the hurricane categories mean, via CBS News

Also, dont think about a previous storm system that happened years ago. People might think, I lived in Florida and I survived that hurricane just fine. Well, yes, youre several hundred miles away, or maybe 50 miles away. So the impacts arent the same. But this storm is different. Pay attention to the latest information about this storm and make your decisions based on that information, not what you think went on during a storm from years past.

The key question to consider is: What are you going to do if you stay? Theres no help coming. Youre staking your life on that decision.

3. Its not necessary to travel hundreds of miles to evacuate

The NHC urges people to go tens of miles, not hundreds of miles. We want you off the road and not clogging it up. Get away from bodies of water  you dont want to be next to a river or on the low side of a dam.

If youve evacuated to a hotel thats well inland but right near a river, you may not have done anything to save your life.

4. Keep updated on the forecast

Go to a trusted source  like your local government officials, hurricanes.gov, noaa.gov, weather.gov  all those places will take you to information about the actual hurricane and what the latest impact will be from wind or storm surge, rainfall and flooding or a tornado event. Check multiple times during the storm, because the forecast changes. Thats why we work around the clock so that we can update the forecast every three hours. When it gets closer to land, they have hourly position points as well.

5. Consider the short-term and long-term effects of a storm

Its as if there are two time scales when it comes to hurricanes. Short-term effects are large, in-your-face kinds of things with storm surge, rain, flooding and high winds, and if youre in the direct path, its more than likely going to be one of the worst things that youve ever witnessed in your life.

But after the storm passes, there is the longer-term impact that many people often dont consider: being without power for several weeks and not being able to travel in your car because theres flooding between you and the place you want to go. Flooding can be immediate, but it can also continue for weeks afterward.
NEW BRUNSWICK, N.J. (AP)  A Virginia man charged with killing a New Jersey pastor had lived with her and her child for a time before returning to their Sayreville home early this year and shooting the charismatic church leader 14 times, prosecutors said at the suspects detention hearing Monday.

Rashid Ali Bynum, 29, of Portsmouth, was denied bail after pleading not guilty to first-degree murder and weapons charges in the Feb. 1 slaying of Eunice Dwumfour. As the hearing ended, the victims mother was detained and handcuffed after a brief scuffle and was being cited for disorderly conduct, according to a lawyer for Dwumfour's family.

Attorney John Wisniewski, who called the charge against Mary Dwumfour, a native of Ghana, unfortunate and said the Middlesex County Sheriff's Office "shouldve used better judgment.

Eunice Dwumfour, 30, was ambushed in her vehicle as she arrived home at an apartment complex in Sayreville, a central New Jersey town where she also served as a council member. She was deeply involved in a Nigerian church, Champions Royal Assembly, and married a fellow church pastor in Abuja weeks before her death.

In court Monday, prosecutors said she had recruited Bynum into the church and a Bible study organization she had started, Fire Congress Fellowship, when they both lived in Virginia. He then moved to Sayreveille, where she frequently lived with other church members.

Bynum returned to Virginia after his relationship with the church soured, Assistant Prosecutor Amber Gibbs said Monday. But Gibbs did not disclose a specific motive for the slaying in court.

According to a NJ.com news report, the small scuffle that led to Mary Dwumfour being detained occurred as Bynum was being led out of court.

The entire family is very emotional, said Wisniewski, adding that the family was seeing Bynum up close for the first time Monday. Its very traumatic and very upsetting for them.

The Middlesex County Prosecutor's Office did not immediately return an email seeking information and comment on the mother's disorderly conduct charge.
The long-running but largely ineffective pro-China "Spamouflage" influence operation has been linked to individuals connected to Chinese government enforcement, according to Facebook parent firm Meta, which announced this on Tuesday.

According to a quarterly security report, the social media giant erased over 7,700 Facebook accounts, as well as hundreds of other pages, groups, and Instagram accounts linked to the campaign, which had elements active since 2018, as reported by Reuters.

Read also: Elon Musk Threatens to Sue Threads Parent Meta After Allegedly Hiring 'Dozens' of Twitter Employees

The Spamouflage

Over the past few years, the "Spamouflage" network has intermittently promoted positive narratives about China and critical criticism of the United States, Western foreign policy, and Chinese government critics.

According to Meta executives, "Spamouflage" has grown to be the greatest known cross-platform influence operation to date with a presence on at least 50 services with the most recent activity being discovered.

(Photo: by Justin Sullivan/Getty Images) MENLO PARK, CALIFORNIA - JULY 07: In an aerial view, people gather in front of a sign posted at Meta headquarters on July 07, 2023, in Menlo Park, California. Since launching, Meta's new Threads platform has soared to 70 million users.

The campaign's phony accounts were organized into groups that shared digital infrastructure, looked to work in distinct shifts, and had broken for lunch and dinner on Beijing time, according to Meta.

The "Spamouflage" network initially began publishing content on significant websites including Facebook, YouTube, and Twitter, now known as X. Recent behavior indicated that it has also increased its presence on lesser platforms like Medium, Reddit, Quora, and Vimeo, according to the corporation.

For its Facebook pages, it gathered a following of roughly 560,000 accounts, but Meta officials claimed they thought the majority of those accounts were fakes that had been bought from spammers in countries like Vietnam and Bangladesh.

Beyond that, they claimed, they did not observe much evidence of true viewership or engagement.

A Facebook page that had previously posted Chinese-language adverts promoting lingerie quickly changed to writing English-language articles about riots in Kazakhstan, Nimmo claimed, which is reflective of the accounts' spammy origins.

Spamouflage is a Chinese state-aligned influence operation that has been active on social media since at least 2019. The network uses a variety of tactics to spread disinformation and propaganda, including creating fake accounts, using AI-generated content, and amplifying its messages through hashtags and other means.

Spamouflage's targets have included the Hong Kong pro-democracy movement, the exiled Chinese billionaire Guo Wengui, and the United States. The network has also sought to promote China's global role and undermine its rivals.

Graphika, a U.S.-based research firm that tracks disinformation, has been tracking Spamouflage for several years. In a 2022 report, Graphika found that the network had grown significantly in size and sophistication. The report also found that Spamouflage was increasingly using AI-generated content, such as deepfakes, to spread its messages.

Spamouflage is a significant threat to the integrity of social media and public discourse. The network's use of disinformation and propaganda can have a real-world impact, swaying public opinion and influencing political outcomes.

Related article: Meta Threatens to Block Facebook, Instagram News Content in California: Here's Why!

@ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
Gwenna Hunter is combatting food insecurity in Los Angeles one fresh vegetable at a time.

After a spiritual experience that led her to go vegan and a hard time in life that led her to food bank lines, Hunter noticed the absence of vegan food banks and was compelled to start her own.

Vegans of LA, the first vegan food bank in the city has fed more than 500 people on the third Thursday of every month since May of last year. Most people don't know that L.A. is one of the vegan capitals of the world.

So many people here are vegan and so many people eat plant based. And theres also so many people here that are going through economic challenges because of how much the rent is and things like that. I was one of those people at one point so Im like we gotta have a vegan food bank in this city and I guess it's gonna be me that's gonna get us started, Hunter shared with USA Today.

A study from the University of Southern California reported earlier this year that one in four households in Los Angeles County experienced food insecurity in 2022. Food insecurity in L.A. County is worse now than it was in the decade before the pandemic, the study found.

A plea to the universe carved the path for vegan food bank

After finding that there were no vegan food banks in one of the vegan capitals of the world, Gwenna Hunter decided to create Vegans of L.A. to help feed the community.

Before Vegans of LA was born, Hunter had the opportunity to see the impact a vegan food aid program had on the community after serving social justice organizations like Black Lives Matter, Black Women for Wellness, Black Women Farmers of LA, the LGBT Center on MLK and the African Spirituality Center.

Just giving people access to fresh fruits and veggies, grains, herbs and even hot meals made a significant impact on their lives, Hunter shared.

After seeing how valuable vegan food programs were to the communities served, Hunter began to think about what she needed to do to get her own food bank idea off the ground.

Obtaining freezers and refrigerators, trucks, employees and a warehouse seemed like an overwhelming list to tackle all on her own.

It became so overwhelming that it was giving me anxiety because Im like Okay, this is a lot of money and I have $0. I can do a GoFundMe and I'm good at getting a $1,000 or $2000 here and there but I realized I was gonna need thousands upon thousands of dollars. And I didn't feel that confident trying to find a location for free and all that. I got so overwhelmed, so I just called out to the universe and I'm like Look, if I'm supposed to do this I need your help, Hunter shared.

The universe brought her into contact with United University ChurchPastor Sunny Kang, who wanted to collaborate together on a vegan food program he had running at USC. After talking for a bit, Hunter found out that Kang had a fully operational food bank.

What a coincidence because I'm trying to start a food bank, but I want mines to be completely vegan. It is so overwhelming. He said instead of starting one from scratch, why don't you just take over part of mine. You have your vegan food bank and we have ours, Hunter said.

Kang was willing to give Hunter everything she needed to get started.

It was a turnkey situation that literally fell into my lap. Without him, I don't even know if this thing would have manifested so I'd probably be doing something else. It is probably the most beautiful and amazing collaboration that I could have asked for, Hunter shared.

So much gratitude is exchanged

Vegans of LA has approximately 600 Angelenos monthly since May of last year.

Vegans of LA serves approximately 600 Angelenos in a three-hour period every third Thursday of the month in two locations.

The team starts off the morning serving fresh produce staples like cabbage, tomatillos, mushrooms, cilantro at their brick-and-mortar location at 2208 S. Union Ave before heading over to serve Westminster Presbyterian Church of Los Angeles, Hunter said.

Hunter supplements the donations given to the food bank by purchasing additional produce herself which is why the variety of the produce can vary from month to month. Vegans of LA get their organic produce sourced locally from organizations like Food Forward and What's Good Produce.

Bananas, potatoes, apples, limes, or yams tend to be some of the most common produce donated, but the kind of plant-based products they serve depends on the donation. They have served frozen vegan mushroom balls, vegan shrimp, vegan fish, vegan burgers and vegan jerky.

The team begins to sort through all of the donations the day before to make sure all of the food is in good condition before they begin the distribution process.

By the time Hunter shows up the next morning to get started, the line is wrapped down the street and around the block.

People start getting in line as early as four o'clock in the morning to make sure that they're able to get everything that's there, Hunter said. The average person comes to pick up food for a family of four.

The team sets tables out on the sidewalk in a line to distribute the grains, nuts, produce and then the frozen items. Volunteers greet each person with a good morning and how are you, Hunter shared.

Since they dont pre-pack bags of food, each person gets to pick out what they want. They keep the line going until everything runs out.

Theres so much reciprocity of gratitude that's being exchanged during that two-hour period. It's an absolute, beautiful and very healing on both ends experience, Hunter said.

"Food is a human birthright"

Instead of offering people items they may not like or want, individuals get to choose what foods they will to take home with them.

What makes Vegans of LA an invaluable resource for the community is that they're recognizing the need for a specific type of food bank to address food insecurity issues in Los Angeles within a specific community, Executive Director of the Los Angeles Food Policy Council Alba Velasquez told USA Today.

Any initiative to address insecurity is important and welcomed, Velasquez shared.

Giving people fresh fruits and vegetables to nourish their soul is incredibly important to Hunter, who, experienced food insecurity when she first moved to Los Angeles nine years ago.

I found myself going from abundance to what we call poverty in a very short period of time. I remember one time having $5 for the week to eat with and if it werent for the 99 Cents Only store, I dont know what I would have done. It was a really stressful time in my life. Luckily for me, it was just me and my cat, but I can only imagine how stressful it would be to a family to provide for, Hunter said.

Free food resources should be available all over the planet, but there is no excuse for anybody in Los Angeles to be hungry, Hunter shared.

There's so much food waste. It is ridiculous. No one should ever be hungry."

Hunter has found a way to keep less people in the community hungry whether you are vegan or not.

In a really coy way, this is a form of activism. Not just in the sense of providing food access to people, but also to show people in a really gentle, kind and quiet way that this [plant based products] tastes just as good as the animals that you're cooking, Hunter said.

Hunter became vegan after experiencing a spiritual awakening of sorts, one that connected her to the soul of a cow.

I learned that animals are as conscious and as aware of their realities and their lives as human beings. When I realized animals love just like we do, but in a more pure way . was like I can't eat someone that loves their children. I cant eat someone who came to the planet to live a happy life just like we did. I don't wanna interrupt that by eating on their bodies. When I had that awakening, it changed everything for me. For me, food access is also a form of activism, Hunter shared.

Members of the community should be helping one another, instead of waiting for the government or local officials to become involved, Hunter said.

You are the government. You are the local official. You can take matters into your own hands and help your own community. You don't need any laws passed or legislation passed in order to help and put forth effort to help give people a basic birthright, which is food. The planet already comes fully equipped with food. The planet comes with everything so there's no reason for anyone to go hungry, Hunter said.

Especially, since the initial cost of starting your own can be relatively little.

There are companies or organizations like Food Forward that exist in almost every state that go out and get surplus from farmer's markets and food banks. If there arent, a farmer would rather give you their excess instead of dumping and getting rid of it. Supermarkets too. There's no excuse. Anyone can get involved in this, Hunter shared.

Even though Hunter has no immediate plans to expand the food bank much farther than Los Angeles at the moment, she is going to see what life brings.

I am focusing on really learning and perfecting the craft of what I've created here in L.A. So as soon as I perfect and master this craft, I'll definitely be setting my sights on another spot here for sure, Hunter said.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Gwenna Hunter shares story of opening first vegan food bank in LA
Arizona Secretary of State Adrian Fontes said Tuesday that his office is figuring out how to handle potential complaints over whether former President Donald Trump should be disqualified from appearing on the 2024 ballot.

The issue centers on the 14th Amendment, which prohibits people who have engaged in insurrection or rebellion from holding public office. Former Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson raised the theory at last weeks GOP presidential debate that Trumps conduct on Jan. 6, 2021, might disqualify him on those grounds  a theory that has gained traction among some legal scholars, though others discount the possibility.

Now, the people running state elections are trying to figure out what to do if people bring legal challenges against Trump.

We have to have a final certification of eligible candidates [for the primary ballot] by Dec. 14 for Arizonas presidential preference election, Fontes, a Democrat elected last year, told NBC News. And because this will ultimately end up in court, we are taking this very seriously.

New Hampshire Secretary of State David Scanlan is dealing with the same question as he watches a potential challenge to Trump brewing in his state. There, a Republican former Trump ally is considering bringing a 14th Amendment challenge against him.

We need to run an election, Fontes said. We need to know who is eligible, and this is of incredible national interest. We arent taking a position one way or the other.

If there are people who want to fight this out, they need to start swinging, because I have an election to run, Fontes added.

Scanlan of New Hampshire made the same point Monday  that he is not seeking to remove any names from the presidential primary ballot but is trying to figure out what to do about potential challenges that are brewing.
Photograph: Ricardo Ramirez Buxeda/AP

An elected Democratic prosecutor whose removal Ron DeSantis boasted about during the first Republican presidential debate said the hard-right Florida governor and his allies ousted her because she was prosecuting their cops.

Law enforcement agencies in central Florida were all working against me, Monique Worrell told the Daily Beast, because I was prosecuting their cops, the ones who used to do things and get away with them.

She added: They thought that I was overly critical of law enforcement and didnt do anything against real criminals. Apparently theres a difference between citizens who commit crimes and cops who commit crimes.

DeSantis has long polled second to Donald Trump in national and key state surveys of the Republican primary but he remains far behind, most observers saying his campaign is stalling.

In Florida, he has removed two elected Democratic prosecutors: Andrew Warren of Hillsborough county in August 2022 and Worrell earlier this month.

Warren said he would not enforce an abortion ban signed by the governor. The prosecutor sued to regain his job but has so far failed, even though a judge found DeSantis to be in the wrong.

Worrell previously responded to her removal by calling DeSantis a weak dictator seeking to create a smokescreen for [a] failing and disastrous presidential campaign.

In his debate-stage boast in Wisconsin last week, DeSantis blamed hollowed-out cities  a symptom of Americas decline on radical leftwing district attorneys [who] say theyre not going to prosecute crimes they disagree with.

Theres one guy in this entire country thats ever done anything about that, he said. Me, when we had two of these district attorneys in Florida  who said they wouldnt do their job, I removed them from their post. They are gone and as president we are going to go after all of these people.

Speaking to the Beast, in a report published on Monday, Worrell said an ambush by the governors law enforcement allies preceded the decision to fire her, including a recorded call in which the Orlando county sheriff complained about a failure to jail a known gang member who was caught with a gun.

Worrell told the site: They took him into custody  without a warrant. Went into his pants pocket  without a warrant. Clicked key fob  without warrant. Went in [to his car]  without warrant.

Theres this little thing called unreasonable search and seizure and you cant get evidence without a warrant. We were unable to go forward with charges because it was an illegal search and seizure. And we had lots of communication with the sheriffs office about this case, trying to salvage the case.

As the state attorney, were not here to rubber-stamp what the sheriffs office does. We cant condone that.

Worrell also told the Beast that at the time she was fired, for what DeSantis called neglect of duty and incompetence, her team was uncovering all sorts of illegal activity in an investigation of the Osceola county sheriff.

Saying she would soon decide whether to sue to get her job back, Worrell also said she was planning to run for re-election next year  a race which would likely pit her against DeSantiss hand-picked replacement.
The New Hampshire secretary of states office was flooded with hundreds of calls Monday from Donald Trump supporters seeking reassurance that the former president is going to be on the ballot next year after conservative talk show host Charlie Kirk falsely told listeners the state is trying to sideline Trump.

Secretary of State David Scanlan told NBC News that he is not seeking to remove any names from the presidential primary ballot, and I have not said that I am seeking to remove any names from the presidential primary ballot.

But Scanlan does expect there to be challenges to Trumps qualification to run in the state under the 14th Amendment of the Constitution, which says no person can hold public office who has engaged in insurrection or rebellion against the U.S. A Republican former Trump ally-turned-opponent met with Scanlan recently to make his case on the subject.

New Hampshire Secretary of State David M. Scanlan. (Matthew Hinton / AP file)

The result: the latest example of Trump supporters turning an election administration office into a partisan battlefield as they ingest conspiracy theories and vent at a system theyve been told is rigged against the former president.

I dont care if you live in New Hampshire or not. It should be a nationwide movement of people contacting, because this impacts everybody, Kirk, the activist who sparked the deluge of phone calls, said on his show Monday. Were gonna break the phone lines and say, Who do you think you are for even entertaining this?

Bryant Corky Messner, a Republican whom Trump endorsed when he ran for the Senate in New Hampshire in 2020, met with Scanlan on Friday.

Messner made a presentation to me about what he is thinking in terms of making a challenge to the former presidents qualifications. Scanlan said. I listened, just as I would listen to anybody that wants to come in with issues related to any candidates qualifications one way or the other.

I intend to be prepared by seeking appropriate legal input so that when the time comes to make a decision on those challenges, to qualifications, that I can respond appropriately with the facts, he continued.

Messner said his motivation for bringing it up is purely as a constitutional conservative, adding that he believes its in everybodys interest if this gets to the U.S. Supreme Court as quickly as possible.

He said Scanlan told him that without some judicial guidance, that he really didnt feel like he can make a decision regarding the 14th Amendment, Section 3. And I agree with him.

The Supreme Court may decide that, you know, in fact, Section 3 does not disqualify Donald Trump, Messner said. And that would be good for [Trump] that the air would be clear then.

Messner added that he would vote for Trump in 2024 if he wins the GOP nomination, because, he said, he is not going to vote for a Democrat.

New Hampshire GOP Chairman Chris Ager said in a statement Monday in response to concerns over Trumps ballot access in New Hampshire: Efforts to deny New Hampshire Republican primary voters a full slate of options are antithetical to our 'live free or die' spirit. The New Hampshire State Republican Party will fight all efforts to eliminate candidates from our primary ballot. I have confidence in our secretary of state and attorney general to make the right decisions. Let voters decide the nominee, not a weaponized federal justice system using tortured logic."

Ager also appeared on Kirks show Monday.

Ive talked to the secretary of state, he said. Ive talked to the attorney general. I am very confident that all of the 14 current candidates who apply will be on our ballot.

Messner is not the first Republican to have brought up the 14th Amendment as a potential obstacle for Trump in 2024, though there are also legal scholars who disagree.

Well over a year ago, I said that Donald Trump was morally disqualified from being president, again, as a result of what happened on Jan. 6, former Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson said on the GOP presidential debate stage last week. More people are understanding the importance of that, including conservative legal scholars, who says he may be disqualified under the 14th Amendment from being president, again, as a result of the insurrection. This is something that could disqualify him, under our rules and under the Constitution.

CORRECTION (Aug. 28, 2023, 9:43 p.m. ET): A previous version of this article misstated when Ager released a statement about Trumps ballot access in New Hampshire. It was Monday, not Friday.
Aleksandra Witek and her two young sons Calvin, one, and Lucian, three (via GoFundMe)

The family of four found dead in an apparently murder-suicide inside an apartment on New Yorks Upper West Side have been identified.

The bodies of Edison Lopez, Aleksandra Witek and their children Calvin, one, and Lucian, three, were found at the home on West 86th Street on Monday afternoon.

The grim discovery was made by Edison Lopezs father, Mario Lopez, who is the buildings former superintendent.

He told the New York Times that he went to check the apartment after his son, the current super, failed to drop the children off for babysitting that morning.

Upon drilling the door lock out of the cylinder, he said he could see his daughter-in-law Witek on the floor with blood already all over her.

Police then arrived to find Witek, 40, and her children in the hallway with fatal stab wounds, including to the throat.

Edison Lopez was found on a bed in another room with a fatal slash to the throat.

Authorities believe the 41-year-old father killed his family before himself.

Speaking to the Times on Tuesday, Mario Lopez said he was still reeling from the shock and did not believe his son could be responsible.

How would you feel if you found your two grandchildren and your son and your daughter-in-law laying there? he asked.

Police said there were no warning signs of domestic violence.

The investigation is still ongoing.

A GoFundMe in memory of Witek and her sons has raised over $51,000 as of Wednesday morning.
The flesh-eating infection that almost took Jennifer Barlows life  and ultimately her leg  started with vague symptoms that escalated quickly.

It was January 2023, and the U.S. Army veteran had just come back from a vacation in the Bahamas.

At 33, she was healthy as an ox and a regular gym-goer, she says.

Jennifer Barlow (Courtesy Jennifer Barlow)

But as she returned home to Atlanta, Barlow started feeling a little off, then very weak. After lying in bed for four days, she noticed her right knee started ballooning up and became red and hot to the touch.

It was so swollen  it was at least three times the size of my left knee. It was really scary, Barlow, who was a geospatial engineer in the U.S. Army, tells TODAY.com. I was in excruciating pain.

Jennifer Barlow (Courtesy Jennifer Barlow)

When she went to a local emergency room, doctors treated her knee as a sprain and sent her home with crutches and pain medicine, she says. But the knee kept getting bigger and looked like a giants leg. Then, she suddenly passed out.

When Barlows brother found her unconscious on the kitchen floor, she was taken to the Joseph Maxwell Cleland Atlanta VA Medical Center. Thats where doctors saved her life, she says.

'Her life was in grave danger'

Tests showed Barlow had severe sepsis, says Dr. Jonathan Pollock, a surgeon who first saw her on Jan. 23.

I was very concerned that she would not survive this, Pollock tells TODAY.com. It is fair to say that her life was in grave danger.

Sepsis, the bodys extreme response to an infection, is a life-threatening medical emergency, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention warns.

Barlow was in septic shock, the most severe complication of sepsis, and had kidney failure and signs of liver failure, says surgeon Dr. Tamra McKenzie-Johnson, who was also involved in her care. Barlow required a breathing machine and medication to maintain her blood pressure.

The veteran was diagnosed with necrotizing fasciitis, a rare infection with bacteria that can cause flesh-eating disease, the CDC notes. Even with treatment, up to 20% of patients die, according to the agency.

The infection gets deep under the skin to the lining of the muscle and moves along that surface very rapidly, destroying tissue, Pollock says.

Patients need aggressive radical surgery to remove as much of the dead flesh as possible, so doctors kept having to take out the soft tissue of Barlows thigh  the skin and the underlying tissue, he adds.

Jennifer Barlow (Courtesy Jennifer Barlow)

Barlow was in a medically induced coma for 10 days. When she woke up, she had already undergone 12 surgeries, she says.

I was confused and scared, she recalls. I never in my life had heard of sepsis  and I had never heard of flesh-eating bacteria.

What causes necrotizing fasciitis?

Barlows infection was caused by group A strep, a particularly virulent form of the bacteria that cause strep throat, Pollock says.

Its the most common cause of necrotizing fasciitis, the CDC notes. Healthy people can get streptococcal necrotizing fasciitis, but it most commonly affects people who have a weakened immune system, it adds.

The bacteria can get into the body through a small cut in the skin, or they may already be present somewhere else in the body and get seated at the site of a small injury like a bruise, Pollock says.

Since she became ill just after returning from the Bahamas, Barlow suspects she may have been exposed to the bacteria in the warm water. But thats associated with another type of bacteria  Vibrio vulnificus  which naturally live in certain coastal waters and can also lead to necrotizing fasciitis, according to the CDC.

Ultimately, doctors cant say for sure where Barlow was exposed to the pathogen.

Once a person becomes infected, early diagnosis of necrotizing fasciitis is notoriously difficult, with one study showing its misdiagnosed 71% of the time, according to the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality.

Meanwhile, sepsis is one of the top five misdiagnosed dangerous diseases in the U.S., a recent study found.

Seeking help for a prosthesis

After doctors got the infection under control with antibiotics, they tried to preserve as much of Barlows leg as possible, but they kept having to remove more dead tissue, McKenzie-Johnson says.

We were all the way down to muscle on the thigh on her leg, she recalls.

When the wound looked healthy and Barlow was stable after two weeks of care, she was transferred to Grady Memorial Hospital in Atlanta, which has experience in managing such extensive wounds, McKenzie-Johnson notes.

More surgeries followed  Barlow says she underwent almost 30 total  but the limb could not be saved. Almost her entire leg was amputated in March. Grady Memorial Hospital did not respond to a doctor interview request.

Jennifer Barlow (Courtesy Jennifer Barlow)

After months of hospitalizations, Barlow was finally able to come home at the end of May. Shes learning how to do day-to-day activities as an amputee, and is grateful for friends and neighbors for making her life as normal as possible.

Barlow is raising money for medical expenses on GoFundMe. Shes using a walker and a wheelchair to get around, so her focus now is to find a prosthesis that will fit her unique case.

The Atlanta VA says it will assist and cover her prosthetic needs, but Barlow also hopes she can meet with experts at the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Bethesda, Maryland.

There are so many innovations and technology for prosthetics, she says. Im extremely open to linking up with somebody who could help me.

This article was originally published on TODAY.com
Police officers stand by the grave of Wagner private mercenary group chief Yevgeny Prigozhin after his funeral in Saint Petersburg on Tuesday - OLGA MALTSEVA/AFP

Yevgeny Prigozhin has been buried at a private ceremony in St Petersburg six days after his plane plummeted to the earth, his press service revealed.

Police cordons were erected outside three cemeteries in the city on Tuesday, prompting fevered speculation about where the Wagner mercenary boss would be laid to rest.

The 62-year-old businessman who was implicated in grave war crimes in Ukraine and beyond was brought to Porokhovskoye cemetery where his father is buried.

The farewell ceremony with Yevgeny Viktorovich took place in a closed format  those who wish to bid farewell are welcome to visit the Porokhovskoye cemetery, a statement said.

Security is tight at the Serafimovskoye cemetery in St Petersburg - ANTON VAGANOV/REUTERS

Policemen were seen posted every 10 metres along the cemetery fence on Tuesday evening.

The announcement came shortly after the Kremlin said Vladimir Putin would not attend the warlords funeral.

Pictures believed to have been taken at the cemetery show a framed photograph of Prigozhin on top of a recently dug-up grave believed to be his fathers.

News website MSK1 later reported the funeral was held in secret, according to his familys wishes.

At one of the other cordoned-off ceremonies, Valery Chekalov, who also died in last weeks plane crash, was buried.

Around 100 mourners, some of them wearing Wagner insignia, filed to the cemetery to say goodbye to the man who reportedly ran Prigozhins business empire.

Several hearses as well as luxury cars previously used by Prigozhin were spotted at another cemetery on the outskirts of Russias second-largest city before they drove away.

There was speculation the cars could have been acting as a decoy to distract news outlets.

The Russian presidents potential presence at the funeral of the man who mounted the first mutiny in Russias post-Soviet history had become a political issue.

Yevgeny Prigozhins gravestone at the St Petersburg cemetery where he was buried beside his father - OLGA MALTSEVA/AFP via Getty Images

On Tuesday, a presidential spokesman told Russian news agencies Putins attendance was not planned and he viewed the funeral as a private, family affair.

The 62-year-old warlord was once awarded Hero of Russia, one of the countrys main military decorations, which entitled him to a pomp-filled state funeral.

But questions had been raised as to whether it would be appropriate for the Kremlin to offer such a burial to a man who mounted a mutiny against it just two months prior.

DNA tests on Sunday confirmed that last weeks plane crash between Moscow and St Petersburg killed Prigozhin and his closest allies. Investigators have not publicly announced the suspected cause of the crash.

Russia will not probe plane crash under international rules

Russia has informed Brazils aircraft investigation authority that it will not probe the crash of the Brazilian-made Embraer jet under international rules at the moment, the Brazilian agency told Reuters.

Brazils Center for Research and Prevention of Aeronautical Accidents (CENIPA), in the interests of improving aviation safety, had said it would join a Russian-led investigation if it were invited and the probe held under international rules.

Russias aviation authority was not obligated to say yes to CENIPA, but some former investigators said it should, as the US and other Western governments suspect the Kremlin of being behind the crash of the Embraer Legacy 600, which has a good safety record. The Kremlin denies any involvement.

According to the Montreal-based United Nations International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), the flight from Moscow with a destination of St Petersburg was domestic, so it is not subject to international rules known throughout the industry by their legal name Annex 13.

They are not obliged, only recommended to do that, CENIPA head air brigadier Marcelo Moreno told Reuters after the agency sent an email last week asking Russia whether it would open such a probe.

But if they say theyll open the investigation and invite Brazil we will participate from afar.

US aviation safety consultant and former investigator John Cox said an internal Russian investigation would always be questioned without the participation of Brazil, the country where the plane was manufactured.

I think its very sad, Mr Cox said after being told of the Russian response. I think it hurts the transparency of the Russian investigation.

CENIPA said in an emailed statement it got the response from the Interstate Aviation Committee - Commission on Accident Investigation (IAC) on Tuesday, with the Russian authority saying it would not open for now a probe under Annex 13.

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Police in India are looking into a teacher after a video of her encouraging pupils to hit their Muslim classmate, 7, provoked uproar across the nation.

The child is shown on video of the incident, which happened in the Muzaffarnagar area of northern Uttar Pradesh, trembling in front of his classmates as the teacher orders them to strike him, as reported by CNN.

A man can be heard chuckling as the youngster wails as his classmates continue to hit him and the teacher is heard instructing the students to slap him "properly."

A Punishment For Not Remembering the Times Tables

Satyanarayan Prajapat, the superintendent of police in Muzaffarnagar, claimed on Friday that the teacher had instructed the kids to strike the boy "for not remembering his times tables."

A case against the teacher has been filed with the local police department, and an investigation is currently ongoing. The instructor is not formally facing any charges. The school has been forced to close by district officials as well.

(Photo: by INDRANIL MUKHERJEE/AFP via Getty Images) Students hold posters as they gather in support of the Chandrayaan-3 spacecraft in Mumbai on August 22, 2023. The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) confirmed that the lander module of the Chandrayaan-3, which means "Mooncraft" in Sanskrit, had "successfully separated" from the propulsion module six days ahead of a planned landing slated for August 23.

After the Thursday event, the boy's father said that his youngster felt "uneasy and scared." He stated that although the child is doing much better today, he "was unable to sleep earlier and was left in shock" afterward.

After Neha Public School, the site of the incident was ordered to close, he informed that his son had subsequently been accepted to another school and had gone to his first day on Monday.

Read also: India Restricts Non-Basmati Rice Exports to Keep Prices Down

Outrage in India

The incident has sparked widespread outrage and upheaval in India, the largest democracy in the world with 1.4 billion people, where the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) Hindu nationalist policies have exacerbated the nation's intercommunal tensions and allegedly fostered a climate of fear and alienation among minority groups.

Rahul Gandhi, a well-known opposition politician, wrote on Twitter, now known as X: "Turning a holy place like school into a marketplace of hatred - there is nothing worse than this that a teacher can do for the country." Gandhi charged the teacher with "sowing the poison of discrimination in the minds of innocent children." Gandhi accused the BJP of inciting religious hatred as well.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said there was "absolutely no space" for discrimination in India while visiting the United States in June. The BJP has not yet responded to Gandhi's remarks, but it has long maintained it does not discriminate against minorities and "treats all its citizens with equality."

Although the Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Act of India forbids physical and verbal abuse of children, there is no legal definition of corporal punishment directed at them.

The teacher claimed the 7-year-old's father had begged her to discipline the child but that she was unable to do so due to her disability and had instead instructed the other students to do so.

The incident occurred when India's communal unrest was at its highest point in recent memory as a result of the BJP's widely supported yet divisive policies.

Following the BJP's election victory, research by economist Deepankar Basu found a 786% rise in hate crimes against all minorities between 2014 and 2018.

The tragedy occurred in Uttar Pradesh, the largest state in India with a population of around 200 million. It has a population that is multireligious, with Muslims making up around 20% of the total. It is still one of the most divisive states in India, nevertheless.

Yogi Adityanath, a former Hindu monk who joined the BJP, is the state's chief minister. He has faced criticism for his anti-Muslim rhetoric and Hindu-first policies, and the state has passed legislation that opponents claim is based on "Hindutva" - the core philosophy of Hindu nationalism.

Related article: India Opposes Legalization of Same-Sex Marriage

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YEREVAN, AUGUST 29, ARMENPRESS. In an apparent effort to whitewash its lengthy record of human rights violations and disregard for international law, the Azerbaijani authorities, who have caused a humanitarian disaster in Nagorno-Karabakh, have now unilaterally decided to send humanitarian aid to the victims of their own actions.

Nagorno-Karabakh has been blockaded by Azerbaijan since December 2022. The blockade has led to a humanitarian crisis, with shortages of all essential products.

Azerbaijan had previously claimed to be willing to send supplies through the Aghdam road. This was viewed in Nagorno-Karabakh as an attempt by Baku to subjugate them. Nagorno-Karabakh rejected the offers on receiving any Azeri aid through the Aghdam-Stepanakert road despite the crisis.

On August 29, Azerbaijani news media reported that the Azerbaijan Red Crescent Society will send 40 tons of flour to the Aghdam-Stepanakert road in what Azerbaijan hypocritically described as a humanitarian gesture.
A Florida mother allegedly shot her two kids before taking her own life. Officials said that the woman made an apparent murder-suicide because she lost a custody battle.

Florida Mother Allegedly Commits Murder-Suicide After Losing Custody Battle

According to Fox News' latest report, Brandy Hutchins is accused of shooting her 19-year-old daughter and 10-year-old son, Aiden.

This detail was confirmed by Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd during a press conference, which happened on Sunday, Aug. 27.

Judd said that the woman murdered her two kids based on every indication in their investigation.

He added that the mother committed suicide by shooting herself after killing her children, as reported by the Independent UK.

Grady Judd was deeply saddened by the incident, saying that the tragedy was absolutely devastating for everyone in Polk County.

"I can't imagine a more horrific set of circumstances," said the official.

Judd also shared that Brandy Hutchins had no criminal history or even indication of possible violence based on her acquired records.

This is why they were surprised by what the mother did to her kids, as well as to herself. "There was no indication that there should be any violence," said the county sheriff.

Read Also: University of North Carolina Shooting: Faculty Member Fatally Shot on Campus, Suspect Under Custody

Losing the Custody Battle

Before the horrible crime, Brandy Hutchins was ordered to surrender her son to his father, who is living in Maine.

Judd stated that the mother was ordered to do this on Friday, Aug. 25, at 6:00 p.m. However, the woman didn't make an appearance for the appointment.

The sheriff said that their office was notified that the woman violated the court order. Since Brandy didn't follow the instructions, deputies decided to find Aiden.

However, the child, together with his sister, was found dead on Sunday afternoon at their mother's house in a Lake Wales home.

Grady said that although their sheriff's office usually receives thousands of court orders, they rarely see a case as violent as Brandy's murder-suicide crime.

If you want to learn more about the latest shooting incident in Florida, you can click here.

Related Article: Jacksonville Sheriff TK Waters Reveals Identity of Gunman, Says Shooter Bought Guns Legally Earlier This Year

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Authorities have denied permission for the yatra on Monday in the aftermath of the communal clashes on July 31

Seers perform 'Jalabhishek' in the Shiva temple of Nalhar, in Nuh district, Monday, Aug. 28, 2023. Heavy security arrangements have been put in place in Nuh in the view of Hindu organisations' 'Jalabhishek Yatra' which was reduced to a small scale. (PTI Photo)

NUH: The Nuh administration on Monday allowed 15 seers and leaders of right-wing groups to offer prayers at the Shiv temple in Nalhar area of this district in Haryana which has been turned into a fortress in view of the Sarv Jatiya Hindu Mahapanchayat's call for a 'shobha yatra'.

Authorities have denied permission for the yatra on Monday in the aftermath of the communal clashes on July 31. However, the locals have been allowed to offer prayers in the temples in their neighbourhood on the last Monday of the holy month of Shravan.

Heavy security arrangements have been put in place in view of the call for the yatra and some seers heading towards Nuh were stopped at Gurugram, police officials said.

Five major checkpoints have been set up from the Delhi-Gurugram border until Nuh with media vehicles not being allowed to go beyond the third checkpoint.

According to officials, the vehicle of Hindu seer Jagatguru Paramhans Acharya from Ayodhya was stopped at the Ghamorj toll plaza near Sohna.

Acharya told reporters that he and his followers were carrying the water of the Saryu river and the soil of Ayodhya for the 'jalabhishek' at Nalhar temple but were stopped by the police. In protest, he sat on a hunger strike near the toll plaza.

Nuh Deputy Commissioner Dhirendra Khadgata said around 15 seers and leaders of some Hindutva outfits have been allowed to visit the Shiv temple in Nalhar and they will perform 'jalabhishek' there. Mahamandaleshwar Swami Dharm Dev and Swami Parmanand were among the group allowed to visit the temple.

After offering prayers at the Nalhar temple, the group accompanied by some locals left for the Jhir temple at Firozpur Jhirka.

Bajrang Dal's Gurugram district convener Praveen Hindustani told PTI that a limited number of people took part in the 'yatra' and they have now left for Jhir temple in a bus amid tight security.

Meanwhile, Hindu rights leader Kulbhushan Bhardwaj claimed that Hindu leaders have been put under house arrest by the Haryana government.

"This is an attack on the Hindu faith. By putting Hindu leaders under house arrest, the Haryana government has reminded them of the reign of the Mughals," he said.

Police personnel were also deployed outside Bhardwaj's house.

The area from Sohna to Nuh wore a deserted look. Not a single shop was open and no locals were seen on the streets.

A 30-year-old resident of Nuh, who didn't wish to be named, said, "There are no issues here. People here live peacefully and we have closed our shops as a precautionary measure. We saw what happened last time. An atmosphere of fear is being created here for absolutely no reason."

The Nuh district administration has already ordered the closure of educational institutions and banks on Monday, suspended mobile Internet and bulk SMS services, and imposed prohibitory orders in the communally-sensitive district as a precautionary measure.

Outsiders have been barred from entering Nuh with security personnel being deployed at all entry points of the district. According to officials, 1,900 Haryana Police personnel and 24 companies of paramilitary forces have been deployed to keep a strict vigil. Multiple layers of barricades have been erected by police. Anti-riot vehicles and drones have also been deployed.

Communal clashes had erupted in Nuh and its adjoining areas after a Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) procession was attacked by a mob on July 31, leading to the death of six people, including two home guards and a cleric.

On August 13, the Sarv Jatiya Hindu Mahapanchayat gave a call to resume the Brij Mandal Shobha Yatra in Nuh on August 28 which was disrupted by the communal clashes in July.

The mahapanchayat had then decided that the 'yatra' would resume from Nalhar in Nuh and then pass through Firozpur Jhirka's Jhir temple and Shingar temple in the district. The VHP has said a procession will be taken out and asserted that there is no need to obtain permission for such religious events.

Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar on Sunday asked devotees to offer prayers at temples in their neighbourhood instead of holding any 'yatra'. Permission has not been granted for the 'yatra', he had also said.

Nuh Deputy Commissioner Dhirendra Khadgata has deputed 57 duty magistrates at designated places in the wake of the call for the 'shobha yatra'. He also appealed to the locals to cooperate with the district administration in maintaining law and order.

Haryana Police chief Shatrujeet Kapur on Saturday had said the administration has denied permission for the yatra due to a meeting of the G20 Sherpa Group, scheduled to be held in Nuh from September 3 to 7, and to maintain law and order in the aftermath of the July 31 violence.
Modi says India will be 3rd fastest growing economy this decade

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday said the Indian economy was on the path of rapid growth, which had led to the creation of big opportunities for employment of youth.

Addressing a Rozgar Mela via video-conferencing where he distributed over 51,000 appointment letters to new recruits, the Prime Minister said that the automobile, pharma, tourism and food processing sectors were expected to grow at a rapid pace and open up employment opportunities for the youth.

Noting Indias status as the fastest growing economy, Prime Minister Modi reiterated that India will reach among the top three economies of the world within this decade. Modi gives such guarantees with utmost responsibility, he said.

Talking about the impact of the growing economy on the ordinary citizen, the Prime Minister said it was important that every sector grows to ensure the growth of the economy.

Mentioning the role of the pharma industry during the Covid-19 pandemic, he said: Today, Indias pharma industry is worth about Rs 4 lakh crore and it is estimated that by 2030 the industry will be worth approximately Rs 10 lakh crores. This growth means that the pharma industry will need more youth in the coming years, creating many opportunities for employment.

Throwing light on the expansion of the automobile and the auto components industry, the PM told the gathering that both industries are worth more than Rs 12 lakh crore and it was expected to grow further in the years to come. He underlined that many more youth will be required by the automobile industry to maintain this growth rate, thereby creating job opportunities.

He also talked about the food processing industry which was worth approximately Rs 26 lakh crore last year and stated that it was bound to rise to Rs 35 lakh crore in the next three and a half years. With expansion comes increased employment opportunities, he added.

Referring to infrastructure development, the Prime Minister further said that in the last nine years the Central government has spent more than Rs 30 lakh crore on infrastructure, giving a push to connectivity as well as to tourism and hospitality, creating new jobs.

By 2030 the tourism sector will contribute more than Rs 20 lakh crore to the economy, creating an estimated 13-14 crore jobs. These are not just numbers, these developments will impact the lives of citizens by creating jobs, ease of living and increasing incomes, Modi said.

Noting that a new era of transformation can be witnessed owing to the efforts of the government in the last nine years, the Prime Minister remarked that India making record exports last year was a sign of increased demand for Indian-made goods in the global market. As a result, production has gone up, employment has increased and thereby the income of the family has seen a rise, he said.

Recalling the launch of Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojna on this day nine years ago, the Prime Minister said: This scheme has played a big role in creating employment along with economic empowerment of the villages and the poor (Gaanv aur Gareeb).

He mentioned that under the scheme, during the last nine years, more than 50 crore bank accounts have been opened and the scheme has helped in taking the benefits to the poor and deprived directly as well as it has helped in employment and self employm?ent of tribal, women, Dalits and other deprived segments.

Modi noted there are a great number of women, Dalits, backwards and tribal youth among the beneficiaries of these schemes and these Jan Dhan accounts have strengthened womens self-help groups in the villages. The role that Jan Dhan Yojana has played in accelerating social and economic change in the country is indeed a matter of study, he said.

The Rozgar Mela was held at 45 locations across the country and through this, the Union home ministry also recruited personnel for various Central armed police forces (CAPFs), the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) and the Delhi police.

The Prime Minister congratulated the new appointees and called them Amrit Rakshak as they will not only serve the country but will also protect the country and countrymen. You are Amrit Rakshak of this Amrit Kaal, the PM said.

Highlighting the responsibilities of the new recruits in ensuring the development of the nation, the Prime Minister said that a secure environment by the rule of law expedites the pace of development.

Giving the example of Uttar Pradesh, the PM mentioned that the state once lagged behind in development and was also one of the leading states in terms of crime. With the introduction of the rule of law in Uttar Pradesh, the state is now able to scale new heights of development and a new society free from fear is being established. Such an arrangement of law and order reaffirms the belief in the people, he said.

The PM pointed out that the investments in the state were on the rise with a decline in crime rate and also pointed out that those states that have a high crime rate are witnessing very low investment and all employment opportunities come to a standstill.
The Cabinet also welcomed that August 23 would be celebrated as 'National Space Day'

While reading out the resolution, Thakur said the Cabinet firmly believes that in an era defined by rapid technological advancements and the quest for innovation, India's scientists stand as shining beacons of knowledge, dedication and expertise. (Image: ISRO)

New Delhi: The Union Cabinet on Tuesday adopted a resolution hailing the soft-landing of Chandrayaan-3 on the lunar surface, saying the success of the mission is a victory not just for ISRO but a symbol of India's progress and ascent on the global stage. Briefing reporters on the decisions taken by the Cabinet, Union Minister Anurag Thakur said it congratulated the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) on its efforts.

It also lauded Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his leadership and vision to the Indian space programme.

"The Union Cabinet joins the nation in celebrating the historic success of the Chandrayaan-3 Mission to the Moon. The Cabinet also appreciates the monumental achievement of our scientists. This is not just a victory for our space agency but is a bright symbol of India's progress and ascent on the global stage," the resolution adopted by the Cabinet said.

The Cabinet also welcomed that August 23 would be celebrated as 'National Space Day'.

"Landing on the Moon, with predicted accuracy, in itself is a momentous achievement. Landing near the South Pole of the Moon, overcoming the arduous conditions, is a testament to the spirit of our scientists, who since centuries have sought to push the boundaries of human knowledge," read the resolution.

It added that the wealth of information being sent by the 'Pragyan' rover from the Moon will advance knowledge and pave the way for ground-breaking discoveries and insights into the mysteries of the Moon and beyond.

While reading out the resolution, Thakur said the Cabinet firmly believes that in an era defined by rapid technological advancements and the quest for innovation, India's scientists stand as shining beacons of knowledge, dedication and expertise.

Their analytical prowess, combined with fervent commitment to enquiry and exploration, has constantly propelled the nation into the forefront of global scientific achievements, the information and broadcasting minister said.

The resolution said their relentless pursuit of excellence, unyielding curiosity, and indomitable spirit to overcome challenges have not only cemented their reputation on the international stage but have also inspired countless others to dream big and contribute to the vast tapestry of global knowledge.

"The Cabinet is proud to see that a large number of women scientists have contributed to the success of Chandrayaan-3 and India's space programme in general," it said, adding that this will motivate several aspiring women scientists in the years to come.

"The Cabinet also congratulates Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his visionary and exemplary leadership, and his unwavering commitment to India's space programme for human welfare and scientific progress. His faith in the capabilities of our scientists and his constant encouragement have always fortified their spirit," the resolution noted.

It said that in his 22 long years as the head of a government, first in the state of Gujarat and later as prime minister, Narendra Modi has an emotional attachment with all Chandrayaan missions.

Thakur said he was serving as chief minister when the idea of such a mission was announced by former prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee and when Chandrayaan-1 was successfully launched in 2008, he went to ISRO and personally congratulated scientists.

In the case of Chandrayaan-2 in 2019, when India was just a hair breadth distance, in space terms, from the Moon's surface, the prime minister's sagacious leadership and human touch lifted the scientists' spirits, steeled their resolve and inspired them to pursue the mission with greater purpose, he said.

"Prime Minister Narendra Modi has always encouraged science and innovation. In the last nine years, a series of reforms have been ushered which have made research and innovation easier. For the space sector, Prime Minister Modi ensured that the private sector and our StartUps got more opportunities in India," the resolution read.

"The establishment of IN-SPACe as an autonomous body under Department of Space, to create an eco-system of industry, academia and start-ups and to attract major share in the global space economy was launched in June 2020. It has become an instrument for enhancing India's strides in the world of space. The emphasis on hackathons has opened up many opportunities for young Indians," it read.

Thakur said the Cabinet welcomed the naming of two points on the Moon as Tiranga Point (footprint of Chandrayaan-2) and Shiv Shakti point (Chandrayaan-3's landing spot).

These names beautifully capture the essence of the past while embracing the spirit of modernity, the resolution said, adding these names are more than just titles.

The Union minister said they establish a thread that "intricately links our millennia-old heritage with our scientific ambitions".

"The success of Chandrayaan-3 is one of the greatest testimonies to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's clarion call of 'Jai Vigyan, Jai Anusandhan'. The space sector will now further open up to Indian home-grown start-ups and MSMEs and generate lakhs of job and give scope for new inventions. It will open up a world of possibilities for the youth of India," the resolution said.

"By unequivocally stating that the knowledge that will come from the success of the Chandrayaan-3 mission will be used for the benefit and progress of humanity, especially the countries of the global south, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has once more manifested the spirit of our timeless belief in Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam. The flame of progress in India will always seek to light up the lives of people elsewhere," it read.

The Cabinet believes that India's advancements in the space sector are more than just monumental scientific achievements, it said, adding that they represent a vision of progress, self-reliance, and global leadership.

This is also a symbol of rising New India, the resolution read.

"We urge our fellow citizens to leverage these strides to create more opportunities across industries, from satellite communication and meteorology to agriculture and disaster management. We should work to ensure that our innovations have direct applications on the ground, enhancing our infrastructure, boosting our digital economy, and providing critical data to various sectors," it said.

In this era of science, technology and innovation, the Cabinet specially appeals to those associated with the world of education to inspire more youngsters towards science, Thakur said.

The success of Chandrayaan-3 has given a monumental chance to ignite the spark of interest in these fields and also leverage the window of opportunities in our nation, he noted.

"This Cabinet commends and appreciates every individual who has contributed to this landmark mission, acknowledging that Chandrayaan-3 is a glowing testament to what India can achieve with passion, perseverance and unwavering dedication. The Cabinet also expresses its confidence that the people of the country, their hearts brimming with joy and pride, shall rededicate themselves to build Bharat into a Developed Nation by 2047," the resolution said.
Banerjee cautioned that a third term for the BJP would ensure the nation faces an "autocratic" rule

KOLKATA: West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Monday said that the BJP might conduct the Lok Sabha polls in December itself, claiming that all choppers have been booked by the saffron party for campaigning.

Banerjee, who was speaking at a TMC youth wing rally, cautioned that a third term for the BJP would ensure the nation faces an autocratic rule.

The chief minister also blamed some people engaged in unlawful activities for the illegal firecracker factory blasts that have occurred in the state. She alleged that this was being done with support from a few police personnel.

"If BJP returns to power for the third consecutive term, the nation would face an autocratic rule. I am apprehensive that they (BJP) could hold the Lok Sabha elections in December 2023 itself...

The saffron party has already turned our country into a nation in the throes of animosity among communities. If they return to power, it will make our country a nation of hatred," she said.

The BJP has already booked all choppers to campaign in the Lok Sabha polls, so that no other political party can use those for canvassing, Banerjee claimed.

Speaking about the blast at an illegal firecracker factory in West Bengal's North 24 Parganas district on Sunday morning in which nine people were killed, the CM said: Some people are engaged in illegal activities, and a few police personnel are supporting this.

The majority of policemen are doing their duty with utmost sincerity, but some are helping such people. They must remember that just like the anti-ragging cell, we also have an anti-corruption cell in Bengal.

The TMC supremo urged those involved in the firecracker industry to start manufacturing green firecrackers.

"What is the problem in producing green firecrackers? Maybe the profit is a bit less, but it is much safer and environment-friendly," she said.

Banerjee also alleged that Governor C V Ananda Bose was violating constitutional norms, and that she does not support his unconstitutional activities.

Don't take 'panga' (challenge) with an elected government, the chief minister said, referring to Bose.

The feisty TMC boss said she had ended the three-decade-long CPI(M) rule in Bengal, and will now defeat the BJP in the Lok Sabha elections.

Hitting out at ABVP and BJP activists who raised 'goli maro' slogans at Jadavpur University, Banerjee said she had instructed the police to arrest those involved in voicing hate slogans at the varsity.

"Those raising such slogans should not forget this is Bengal; this is not Uttar Pradesh," she asserted.
The Camp David trilateral summit is a concrete move for strategic rebalancing in the Indo-Pacific triggered by Chinese expansionism

The August 18 Camp David summit between US President Joe Biden, South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol and Japanese PM Fumio Kishida will have far reaching strategic impact on the Indo-Pacific as it ushers a new era of trilateral partnership between US and its two defence allies in Northeast Asia. While both South Korea (ROK) and Japan have strong bilateral security ties with the US, the relations between Tokyo and Seoul have been uneasy due to lasting bitter memories among Koreans of the harsh Japanese occupation of the Korean peninsula in 1910-1945.

The US is working assiduously to bring its two main Western Pacific allies closer since the historic pivot to the Indo-Pacific by President Barak Obama in 2011.Also, chancelleries across the world were forced to reexamine long-held beliefs due to the onslaught of the economic impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, Chinas expansionism and Russias invasion of Ukraine.

Major are looking critically at emerging challenges and breaking out of the shackles of the past. In Asia, the reconciliation between Saudi Arabia and Iran and growing ties between the UAE and Israel are key examples.

Countries in the Indo-Pacific are also pushing back against the Chinese expansionism. New Philippines President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has been forthright in opposing Chinas illegal claims in the South China Sea and reversed the appeasement policy of his predecessor Rodrigo Duterte. The US has also reaffirmed its security alliance with Manila.

The August 18 joint statement Spirit of Camp David seeks to enhance strategic coordination between the US-Japan and US-ROK alliances and brings (their) trilateral security cooperation to new heights. The three leaders are resolute in (their) determination to uphold regional security, strengthen Indo-Pacific engagement and promote common prosperity.

The joint statement criticises the dangerous and aggressive behaviour supporting unlawful maritime claims by China in the South China Sea and the three countries declared that they strongly oppose any unilateral attempts to change the status quo in Indo-Pacific waters. The joint statement thus widens the ambit of trilateral cooperation from Northeast Asia and the Korean peninsula to the entire Indo-Pacific, including the South China Sea and the Taiwan Strait as the statement reaffirmed the importance of peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait.

In a blunt warning to North Korea, the US unequivocally reaffirm(ed) that its extended nuclear deterrence commitments to both Japan and and ROK are ironclad and backed by the full range of US capabilities. It may be noted that analysts have questioned the long-term sustainability of this fundamental shift in the Korean attitude towards Japan as latent tensions over compensation to wartime Korean slave labour by Japanese companies and the so-called comfort women resurface violently from time to time. Despite close economic cooperation between Japan and South Korea after their 1965 Treaty on Basic Relations, there is a palpable hostility for each other among the people of the two countries. President Yoon boldly embarked on a new course of close understanding with Japan and had summit meetings with Prime Minister Kishida in Tokyo in March 2023 and in Seoul in May 2023.

There is vocal public concern among South Koreans about the release of contaminated water from the Fukushima nuclear plant in the Pacific Ocean, which the Yoon administration is finding difficult to assuage.

President Yoon Suk Yeol had won the March 2022 presidential election with a very narrow margin over his Democratic Party rival and has rather low approval ratings of around 30 per cent. In the ROK, the polity is almost evenly divided between rightists leaning towards the US, against any accommodation towards North Korea, and left-of-centre liberals more forgiving of North Korean transgressions and seeking a middle strategic space between the US, their main security partner, and China, the main economic partner. Through fair and open elections, political power keeps alternating between these two ideological opposites.

To prevent any backsliding by a future administration in any of the three countries, the Camp David joint statement commits the partners to hold trilateral meetings between (our) leaders, foreign ministers, defence ministers and national security advisers at least annually.

Chinas reaction to this emerging trilateral alliance will be watched with considerable interest. In 2016, after the then-rightist Park Geun Hye administration permitted installation of THAAD anti-missile batteries in Korea, China had reacted angrily, curtailing tourism, threatening Korean businesses operating in China and harassing Korean giants like LOTTE group and Hyundai Motors.

After coming to power in 2017, the left-leaning President Moon Jae-in had adopted a policy of 3Nos assuring China that Seoul will not add new THAAD missile batteries, not participate in a US missile defence network and not join any trilateral military alliance with the US and Japan. President Yoon appears to be on a course upending these assurances.

Chinas ambassador in Seoul has adopted a wolf warrior stance and has publicly warned the Yoon administration against making the wrong judgment on US-China competition.

China will be worried about the continuing hawkish stance of Japanese foreign policy even after the demise of former PM Shinzo Abe. US bases in Japan and Korea may come into play in case of any misadventure by China across the Taiwan Straits.

The Camp David trilateral summit is a concrete move for strategic rebalancing in the Indo-Pacific triggered by Chinese expansionism. With other developments like the growing evolution of the Quad, bringing India closer to the US, Japan and Australia; the AUKUS between the US, UK and Australia; and assertion of sovereignty by the Philippines, the democracies of the region are sending a signal to China to reverse its policy of forcing unilateral changes on the ground around its periphery, and thus putting the peace, stability and prosperity of the region in peril.
by Vladimir Rozanskij

The crisis in supplies due to drought is poisoning relations with Kazakhstan, whose sugar beet growers are facing ruin. Astana in protest is blocking borders to Kyrgyz commercial transports. Two countries that are historically and culturally very similar, but whose policies also often diverge in their relations with Moscow.

Astana (AsiaNews) - Due to the drought that has been going on for months now, Kyrgyzstan has so far been unable to supply the farmers who grow sugar beet in southern Kazakhstan with additional quantities of water, according to current agreements.

In turn, Astana is blocking the borders for Kyrgyz commercial transport, largely destined for Russia in a way to circumvent international sanctions. On the internet there are very anxious videos of Kazakh farmers, who risk ruin.

Not all farmers accuse Kyrgyzstan, which is also rather tried by climatic adversities, and many are angry with the regional authorities and those in Astana, who did not take the necessary countermeasures in time.

Bishkek's agriculture ministry, for its part, has issued statements according to which all commitments towards neighboring Kazakhs, whose border territories are downstream of the now dry waters of Kyrgyzstan, have been observed; as there is no reserve water, the Kyrgyz do not feel they bear responsibility for the situation.

According to the ministry's data, the Kirov reservoir in the northwestern part of the Talas region is currently at the level of 3 percent of its capacity, as confirmed by satellite images of the area.

Many Kyrgyz believe that Kazakhstan has decided to punish them anyway, with the blockade of the "Ak-Tilek", "Ken-Bulan" and other border crossings, where hundreds of vehicles have been stopped for some days now.

The truck drivers say that the Kazakh border guards lengthen checks on loads indefinitely, allowing a maximum of 5-6 cars to pass a day, when on average at least 20 pass an hour. Kazakh Deputy Prime Minister Erulan Zamaubaev told reporters that the Security Committee (KNB) is conducting an operation to combat drug trafficking along the country's borders, without clarifying how long it will last.

Tension was further increased on August 25 by the visit to Astana by Tajik President Emomali Rakhmon, Kyrgyzstan's main opponent in Central Asian policies. According to many observers, it would be a signal from Astana to express its dissatisfaction with Bishkek.

In fact, the situation is not new at all, and the struggle for water resources in these areas has in the past led to various alliances and differences between these countries; things had improved somewhat since 2016, with the coming to power in Uzbekistan of Savkat Mirziyoyev, who had taken very peaceful positions on the issue, while his predecessor Islam Karimov was known for the opposite, even threatening armed conflicts for the access to cross-border resources.

Mirziyoyev himself had launched an appeal to his neighbors as early as April, due to the very negative forecasts on the summer climatic phase, and in Uzbekistan measures had been taken to save water reserves, those which according to the Kazakh farmers should also have taken the government of Astana.

Bishkek had warned the Kazakhs in talks earlier this summer, predicting serious water supply problems, and that they could not go beyond the minimum quotas of the agreements. No formal accusations against the Kyrgyz have arrived from the Kazakh authorities, but a report by the Astana ministry of ecology had nonetheless noted a non-correspondence in the declared levels of the Kyrgyz basins.

Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan are two historically and culturally very similar countries, but their policies are often divergent, and we recall the previous conflict in 2017, when the outgoing president of Bishkek, Almazbek Atambaev, had attacked Nursultan Nazarbaev, accusing him of meddling in ongoing electoral trials, calling him a decrepit autocrat and claiming that Kazakhstan's ruling clan robbed its own citizens.

The reaction then was very similar to today's: kilometer-long queues immediately formed at the borders, and the Kazakh services said they were waging "war against smugglers". Atambaev cheekily said that the queues will disappear as soon as we turn off the taps in Kazakhstan for a couple of days, but that was resolved pretty quickly.

Now some even suspect that behind the "water reticence" of the Kyrgyz there is the hand of Moscow, which in this way seeks to force the Kazakhs to collaborate more in circumventing the sanctions.

Photo: Kirov reservoir (gov.kz)
by Dario Salvi

After a long illness, the prelate emeritus of Dohuk in Kurdistan passed away yesterday in hospital. His physique was marked by an assassination attempt to which he had fallen victim in 2003, but that had not shaken his vocation for encounter and confrontation. A Muslim family affectionately called him "my uncle bishop." From international school to Isis refugee, a life spent serving the Kurdish community.

Milan (AsiaNews) - The Chaldean Church and the Kurdish and Muslim authorities in Iraq, especially in the Kurdish region of the North, mourn the passing of Msgr. Rabban al-Qas, bishop emeritus of Dohuk (even before Amadiya and Zakho), who died yesterday in hospital at the age of 74 after a long illness.

The prelate's life is inextricably linked to the tragedies that have marked the Kurdistan region, from the reign of terror of dictator Saddam Hussein to war and Islamic fundamentalism, ending up himself the victim of an extremist attack at the end of 2003. He was victim of a bomb explosion that affected his health, but never affected his missionary commitment and zeal.

In the dark years of the invasion of the Islamic State (IS, ex Isis) in Mosul and in the plain of Nineveh, mgr. Rabban has spent himself on behalf of Christian and Muslim refugees. He has always maintained and cultivated a strong bond with the Islamic religious and civil authorities of the area with whom he has worked to maintain and strengthen a climate of dialogue and trust, in some cases of deep friendship.

The funeral of Msgr. Rabban are taking place this morning in the native village of Komane, in the district of Amadiya, governorate of Dohuk, where he was born in 1949. Despite his illness (he suffered from Alzheimer's), the prelate has always distinguished himself in his mission for his vocation to interreligious dialogue and coexistence in a region marked by violence and conflict. A role recognized by the local authorities themselves, including the Prime Minister of Kurdistan Mesrur Barzani who in a letter of condolences defined him as "a patriot" and active promoter "of the culture of peaceful coexistence between the different communities".

President Nechirvan Barzani remembers him as "an important Christian and an enlightened mind" who worked throughout Kurdistan. He was an important religious and social figure, who served religious, educational and cultural matters with dedication. He was a strong defender of Kurdistan, of peaceful coexistence and solidarity in the region, in Iraq and around the world."

The priestly ordination of Msgr. Rabban dates back to 1973, then in 2002 his appointment as bishop of Zakho and Amadiya, followed by his transfer in 2020 to Dohuk, where he remained for only one year before resigning due to the progressive worsening of his health conditions. The attack suffered in 2003 had already undermined his spirit, but not his morale and enthusiasm in his vocation as priest and bishop.

Interviewed by AsiaNews while he was still in hospital in Rome for medical treatment following the explosion that had hit him, the Kurdish prelate commented on the arrest of Saddam Hussein using the metaphor of the "smashed snake head". They were the first stages of the US invasion which would later mark the future history of the country and the capture of the dictator was still "a joy for all Iraqis". However, he did not hide his fears for a possible escalation of violence that has bloodied the nation and its inhabitants in the years to come, also due to the lack "of a strong government" as the prelate had hoped to ensure stability.

In 2004 he had personally supervised the opening of the International School of Dohuk, the first English language school in the area after the fall of the former dictator. A reality, the bishop underlined at the time, "designed to give hospitality to the young people of the villages. For this there are student accommodation. Our idea is to offer this school free of charge to everyone. The school, in agreement with the education minister, had decided to use English and French for all scientific and philosophical subjects, "to facilitate Iraq's integration into the international community".

In early January 2015 Msgr. Rabban had guided the then director of AsiaNews Fr. Bernardo Cervellera and the author of this article - he was a great friend and supporter of our agency - in visiting the refugee camps that had welcomed Christians, Muslims and Kurds in the first months of the ISIS tragedy. It was the first phase of the advance of the jihadist reign of terror, the dream of the Caliphate seemed to be able to come true with al-Baghdadi's men who had come to occupy almost half of the territories of Syria and Iraq. In the same days the terrorist attack in Paris also took place, triggering the refusal of coexistence with Muslims.

On the evening of January 9, the prelate "accompanied us to present condolences to a Muslim family of Komane" gathered to bid a last farewell to a relative. Kurds whom the bishop had known since the 1970s, having welcomed and helped them after they had spent years in prison under Saddam and then had been driven out of Baghdad. Years later their gratitude was still "great" and the youngest of the family, despite being Muslims, affectionately called him "my uncle bishop".

One of the sons of Hassan, the then head of the family, describing the tragedy of Isis said: "Our Islam is non-violent, it is a friend of Christians: look how we love each other with the bishop and with his community. Among the people who came today to offer their condolences, at least half are Christians".

These words, from a young Muslim, better than any celebration encapsulate the work and mission of Msgr. Rabban for Kurdistan, for Iraq, but above all for the Chaldean Church and its Christians.
Civil nuclear power in the Mideast is becoming another sore point between China and the United States. Irked by US indecision, Saudi leaders might turn eastward. The Abraham Accords and Israeli resistance hover in the background. Nuclear deals are deeply political.

Riyadh (AsiaNews)  Saudi Arabias plan to diversify its energy sources by developing nuclear power opens a new point of contention between China and the United States, as the two superpowers increasingly challenge each other for economic, diplomatic, and military influence in the Middle East.

Recently, the Wall Street Journal reported that the Saudi leaders are carefully evaluating a Chinese proposal to build the countrys first nuclear power plant.

This would fit with the Vision 2030 plan promoted by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman, which would introduce major economic and social reforms in the country, but it also risks irking the United States, which is not inclined to see the kingdom develop nuclear weapons.

According to the US business daily, state-owned China National Nuclear Corp (CNNC) has proposed to build a plant in the east of the country, not far from the border with Qatar and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

Saudi officials who spoke with the Wall Street Journal said that negotiations between Riyadh and Beijing could push the White House to compromise on the principles of nuclear non-proliferation that have so far blocked an agreement with the United States. However, bin Salman is just as ready to push forward with China if negotiations with his reluctant US ally fail.

In a sign of openness, China will continue to conduct mutually beneficial cooperation with Saudi Arabia in various fields, including civil nuclear energy, while strictly abiding by international non-proliferation obligations, said a spokesperson for Chinas Foreign Ministry at a recent press conference.

In the past, Saudi Arabia has urged the United States to work jointly on civil nuclear power in exchange of normalising ties with Israel within the framework of the Abraham Accords. Currently, the two Middle Eastern countries do not have official diplomatic relations.

However, US and Israeli fears and the possibility that Riyadh might build nuclear weapons have held back Saudi ambitions. Israel is the only nuclear power in the region and intends to keep it that way.

The situation is different for China, which does not depend on non-proliferation obligations. In the past year, it has boosted ties with Gulf countries, starting with Saudi Arabia, especially after it helped its rapprochement with its historic rival, Iran.

Beijing is also the largest buyer of Saudi crude, while Saudi Arabia remains the world's largest producer.

Although Riyadh is the most important buyer of US weapons, and the two countries have long maintained close relations, the latter have suffered in recent years after the killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi.

The Saudis are pushing the Americans for guarantees if they ever decide to establish formal ties with Israel. The US, however, does not seem ready to make concessions on nuclear power, thus leaving the door wide open for China to become a key partner for Saudi Arabia.

And China is not alone. In fact, the Saudis are also looking at Russia and France to develop nuclear technology in order to break US resistance.

A final decision should be based on economics and technology, in which the US still has a healthy advantage, and for this reason, would be more than welcome by Saudi leaders.

In years to come, nuclear energy is expected to gain ground as a source of energy in oil- and gas-rich Middle East and the rest of the world.

Western analysts and experts are urging Washington not to abandon the race and not bind collaboration to signing the Abraham Accords, because nuclear power is a strategic component of the Vision 2030 plan; otherwise, it might give Beijing (or Moscow) a free rein.

US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan recently spoke about the issue, saying that the Biden administration will ask the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) for an opinion on nuclear cooperation with Saudi Arabia. The agency's response could be of primary importance for future decisions.

Meanwhile, for Sullivan, There are still some ways to travel" for any agreement between the Saudis and the Israelis.

As for Beijing, it is worth noting that its rapprochement with the country that is the cradle of Sunni Islam has not been affected by complaints over its treatment of Muslim Uyghurs in Xinjiang.

Last week, Beijing strongly supported the invitation to Saudi Arabia to join the group of emerging economies at the conclusion of the latest BRICS summit in South Africa.

Last year Riyadh hosted Chinese President Xi Jinping for a Gulf summit and months later Beijing brokered a rapprochement between the kingdom and the Islamic Republic.

As Jack Dutton, Al-Monitors chief Europe business correspondent, writes: Deals for nuclear reactors are long-term and lucrative and deeply political.

GATEWAY TO THE EAST IS THE ASIANEWS NEWSLETTER DEDICATED TO MIDDLE EAST. WOULD YOU LIKE TO RECEIVE IT EVERY TUESDAY VIA E-MAIL? SUBSCRIBE TO THE NEWSLETTER HERE.
by Sumon Corraya

The 33-year-old member of the Missionary Sisters of the Immaculate, a congregation linked to PIME, is set to leave shortly for the mission in Italy. In the farewell Mass, Fr Giacominelli highlighted the joy of working in education, which many Italian Sisters experienced in his parish of Bonpara. Her testimony is an example for other girls and young women who want to follow the same path.

Dhaka (AsiaNews)  Sister Happy Martha Rozario, a 33-year-old member of the Missionaries of the Immaculate (MSI), a female congregation linked to PIME, is ready to leave for Milan (Italy) to bear witness to the faith among young people with a mandate from the Church in Bonpara, her parish of origin.

In the past, the Italian sisters of PIME (Pontifical Institute for Foreign Missions) came to our country as missionaries, now it is we who go to their country as missionaries, she said speaking about her new task.

Before departing, her community bid her farewell on 18 August, during a solemn Eucharistic celebration attended by more than 300 people and led by Fr Dino Giacominelli (PIME), who gave her a Bible and a cross as symbols of mission.

"I am happy to go on the mission to be a witness of Christ among young Italians, she told AsiaNews.

The Missionary Sisters of the Immaculate arrived in Bengal in 1953 from Europe and today 18 foreign PIME missionaries, mostly Italians, still serve in Bangladesh. Conversely, 52 PIME Sisters are local, including 16 serving as missionaries abroad.

For Sister Rosary, most of her time will be devoted to passing on Christian values to young people. In the past, she worked at a hostel and a school.

"Italy needs foreign missionaries to work with young people, explained the Sister, the sixth of seven children. I will serve those in Milan. As an educator, I will pass on Christian values to them so that they can follow the teaching of Jesus."

During my childhood I saw many PIME sisters visiting families in our village of Bahimaly, in the parish of Bonpara, she said when asked about the origin and development of her religious vocation.

"Their sincerity, their simple life, their smiling faces and their good behaviour pushed me to become a nun. Among them, Sister Gertrude Reberio attracted me the most.

This shows how PIME Sisters won the hearts of local Catholics.

Sister Martha admitted that she did not have a clear idea about missionary life, but when she began her training at the congregations house, where she lived from 2007 to 2018, she immediately had a clear idea of her religious vocation.

After completing her studies, she became a nun on 15 August 2018. Although my parents did not agree at the start, they still provided her with support, as did PIME Sisters.

Italian missionary Fr Giacominelli is another key figure who boosted her vocation. In his homily saying goodbye to Sister Rosario, he stressed the change in the missionary perspective.

In the past we PIME missionaries came to Bangladesh, now it is the young people of Bangladesh who go to our country (Italy) as missionaries. This is a good sign, he noted.

I congratulate Sister Happy Martha for the blessing received" because her choice to devote herself to consecrated life has already become a source of inspiration for other young women who wish to become Sisters.

"I want to become a nun and be a witness of Christ to others, said 15-year-old Saroshi Corraya.

This is a challenge in a country like Bangladesh, overwhelmingly Muslim, home to 166 million people, where Christians number about a million, half of them Catholic.
Today's headlines: Putin will not attend the G20 in New Delhi; Japan wants to sue China at WTO over seafood import ban after Fukushima water release; Anti-crime mayoral candidate wounded in attack in Nazareth; Georgian 6th-century monastery buried by a landslide.

SOUTH ASIA

Rising air pollution could reduce life expectancy by more than five years per person in South Asia, one of the most polluted regions in the world. This is stated in a report by the Energy Policy Institute (EPIC) of the University of Chicago in its latest Air Quality Life Index. The region, which includes Bangladesh, India, Nepal and Pakistan, is responsible for more than half of the years of life lost globally due to pollution.

INDIA-RUSSIA

With a phone call to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Russian President Vladimir Putin officially announced that he will not participate in the G20 summit scheduled in New Delhi on 9 and 10 September. He will be replaced by Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov. In the call, Modi and Putin discussed several "regional and global issues of mutual interest," India said in a statement.

JAPAN-CHINA

Foreign Minister Yoshimasa Hayashi said the Japanese government could lodge a complaint with the World Trade Organization (WTO) over China's decision to ban all imports of Japanese seafood after radioactive treated water began to leak. be released into the sea from the Fukushima nuclear power plant. Hayashi urged Beijing to immediately lift the "not scientifically based" ban.

CHINA

Sun Zhigang - another high-ranking Chinese Communist Party official - was placed under investigation for suspected "serious violations of discipline and the law," a euphemism for corruption. Sun, 69, was a former head of China's health care reform and former party chief in the southwestern province of Guizhou. This is the second ministerial-level official arrested by the anti-corruption watchdog since the party's 20th National Congress held in October.

ISRAEL

In Nazareth, a mayoral candidate in local elections scheduled for October 31 and two other men were shot and wounded. Musab Dukhan was taken to Rambam Medical Center in Haifa in stable condition. The shooting came in the context of a wave of violent crime in Israeli Arab communities, against which Dukhan had recently taken a stand on the election campaign.

RUSSIA

In the official coding of the topics admitted for the high school diploma in Russian schools, the topics relating to "democracy", "international law", "civil society" and "alternative civil service" have been removed while the topic "special military operation" has been inserted . Even writers like Pushkin, Lermontov and Gogol will be replaced by Russian works on the war.

GEORGIA

A landslide caused by floods buried the medieval monastery of Siomgvime in Georgia, located in a narrow valley about 30 km from Tbilisi, next to the historic town of Mtskheta. Several civil protection teams rushed to the area, also because it is not known whether there are people left under the ruins. The origin of the monastery dates back to the 6th century.
State media said Tuesday that North Korean leader Kim Jong Un declared the navy will become "a component of the state nuclear deterrence," as the U.S., South Korea, and Japan conducted a trilateral naval exercise to counter North Korea's escalating nuclear threats.

Since last week, the militaries of the United States and South Korea have been conducting separate bilateral summer training exercises. Although Washington and its allies insist military exercises are defensive, North Korea sees such U.S.-led training as an invasion practice, as reported by NBC News.

Kim claimed that U.S.-led hostilities had caused the waters of the Korean Peninsula to become unstable and "with the danger of a nuclear war" in a speech honoring the nation's Navy Day on Monday.

According to Kim, new weapons would be provided to military units of each branch of service in accordance with the government's intention to increase the operational range of tactical nuclear bombs.

This means that North Korea would equip its navy and other armed forces with brand-new nuclear-capable missiles.

In order to foil his competitors' plans to attack his nation, he also demanded that his troops be continually prepared for battle.

The Gang Bosses

With its allies, the U.S., according to Kim, has been conducting "more frantic" naval exercises and deploying strategic assets near the Korean Peninsula. Kim also mentioned a recent conference between the United States, South Korea, and Japan where it was decided to strengthen defense cooperation in order to oppose North Korea's nuclear development.

President Joe Biden, President Yoon Suk Yeol of South Korea, and Prime Minister Fumio Kishida of Japan were referred to by Kim as "the gang bosses" of the three nations.

(Photo: by South Korean Defense Ministry via Getty Images) EAST SEA, SOUTH KOREA - JULY 06: In this handout photo released by the South Korean Defense Ministry, a South Korean navy ship fires a missile during a drill aimed to counter North Korea's intercontinental ballistic missile test on July 6, 2017 in East Sea,

The foreign ministry of South Korea expressed sincere concern at Kim's use of "very rude language" to disparage the leaders of South Korea, the United States, and Japan. Reporters were informed by spokesperson Lim Soosuk that North Korea has to stop its "reckless threats and provocation" and swiftly lower tensions.

Naval vessels from the three nations participated in Tuesday's training in international waters off South Korea's southern Jeju island. The South Korean Navy said in a statement that the training's main objective was to learn how to effectively detect, monitor, and share information about approaching North Korean missiles.

On August 21, the military exercises between the United States and South Korea officially began. The yearly Ulchi Freedom Shield drill is a command post-simulation. But this year, they had field training.

Read also: North Korea Allegedly Fired ICMBs After Threatening US; Japanese, SoKor Officials Share Details

North Korea's Testing Campaign Triggers the US and South Korea

Usually, North Korea conducts its own missile tests in response to joint military exercises with South Korea. Its second effort to launch a spy satellite into orbit failed last Thursday. According to The Independent, Kim saw strategic cruise missile test firings the day before the maneuvers started.

North Korea has conducted more than 100 weapons tests since the start of 2022, many of which were nuclear-capable missiles intended to attack the United States, South Korea, and Japan. According to many observers, North Korea ultimately hopes to utilize its improved military prowess to force the United States to make further concessions.

Due to the North's testing campaign, the United States and South Korea have been forced to increase their drills, resume trilateral training with Japan, and improve the "regular visibility" of U.S. strategic assets on the Korean Peninsula. For the first time in forty years, the US sent a nuclear-armed submarine to South Korea in July.

Related article: US, South Korea, Japan Conduct First Anti-Submarine Drill Amid North Korea's Threats

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by Chiara Zappa

Discovering Mongolias small Catholic community ahead of the pontiffs arrival on 31 August shows how the country is rebuilding its identity after 70 years of communism and the difficult transition to democracy. The small local Catholic community has been a work in progress for the past 30 years. Fr Peter Sanjajav is one of the first two local priests. Today my story helps me serve as a bridge between different cultures and experiences, alongside those who are searching, he said.

Ulaanbaatar (AsiaNews)  On a bus stuck in traffic on Chinggis Avenue, central Ulaanbaatar, crossing the city, Father Ernesto was joking around with a child sitting next to his grandfather.

In 30 years, the Mongolian capital has seen its population triple to 1.7 million, new buildings going up non-stop.

Born in 1951, Fr Ernesto Viscardi points to the neighbourhoods that run by the window, which will welcome Pope Francis from 31 August to 4 September during his historic visit to a young and small Church. The Italian priest knows the place very well.

He arrived in Mongolia in 2004 to join a small group of Consolata missionaries who had arrived the previous year in a land of extremes, starting with the weather, seeking a new identity after the transition to democracy that followed 70 years of communism.

For Fr Ernesto, This identity is being rebuilt around some key elements: the land, the Buddhist tradition, and the myth of the great leader Genghis Khan (who in the early 1200s united rebellious Mongol tribes into an army that conquered an area that stretched from Korea to Poland).

During the long embrace by the Soviet giant, spirituality was forcibly banned from everyday life. Following purges that began in 1937, thousands of temples were destroyed, Buddhist monasteries seized, and at least 15,000 lamas (spiritual masters) slaughtered.

The bus crosses the Peace Bridge built in the 1950s by China, Mongolias other cumbersome neighbour, and heads towards the central square, the seat of government, where people, fed up with corruption and the rising cost of living, periodically stage protests.

About two thirds of the people experience some form of poverty. Beyond the downtown skyscrapers, the hills surrounding the capital are home to most of the poor, white spots dotting the rising slopes.

As the bus makes its way up the less busy roads, it becomes clear that the spots are gers (yurts), the traditional tents of nomadic herders.

In recent years, more and more families from the steppes have moved to the capital in search of a less harsh lifestyle or as a result of the loss of livestock due to particularly harsh winters", the missionary explains. But "Very few can afford a flat.

Most pitch their tent where they find a piece of vacant land. More than half of Ulaanbaatars population lives in so-called the ger districts, without sewers or running water.

The Catholic mission in modern-day Mongolia also had its origin in such traditional tents, small spaces meticulously organised according to the symbols of shamanic culture after Christianity, which had arrived with the Nestorian Church in the 8th century, disappeared for hundreds of years.

In 1992, a few months after a new constitution was approved, guaranteeing freedom of expression and religion, three missionaries from the Belgian congregation of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, settled in Ulaanbaatar.

One of them was Fr Wenceslao Padilla, a Philippine priest, appointed superior of the missio sui iuris (raised to apostolic prefecture in 2002). He immediately dedicated himself to helping the homeless, the disabled, the elderly, but especially street kids, who were roaming the citys streets in large numbers, a consequence of the harsh economic crisis that followed the fall of communism.

A few years later, work began on the cathedral, styled after a ger with a round shape, a low conical dome, and a wooden radial ceiling. Today it stands next to the St Mary clinic for the poor.

For over 20 years, a real tent served as the first facility, set up by the Salesians, who today run a large vocational centre with some 200 students.

"For those who come from the countryside without professional skills, life in the capital can be very difficult", this according to Fr Paul Leung, a Salesian originally from Hong Kong who runs the school. Thanks to our courses, young people have no difficulty finding a job.

Some have become educators, teaching at the Don Bosco School, while a few have chosen to be baptised.

Talking about religion is banned in school, but we convey Christian values in everyday life, or in the traditional Salesian practice of 'good morning'. Some decide to go further, attending catechism class in one of the parishes, Fr Paul explained.

In three decades of missionary presence, six parishes were established in Ulaanbaatar. More were created in Erdenet, Darkhan and Arvaikheer (where gers still serve as churches).

A small Church has emerged out of the first proclamation, with 77 priests, consecrated brothers, nuns, and lay people, and about 1,500 baptised members, many of whom are active as catechists, educators, members of choirs, and volunteers in charitable work.

Since last year, by the will of Pope Francis, this small community also has a cardinal, Apostolic Prefect Giorgio Marengo, also a missionary of the Consolata.

In recent years, by osmosis, the first two local vocations flourished: Fr Joseph Enkh-Baatar was ordained a priest in 2016, followed two years ago by Fr Peter Sanjajav, now 38 (pictured).

When, as a child, I arrived from Arvaikheer with my mother, brother and sister, it was the Sisters of Mother Teresa who welcomed us," he said. "We came from a very poor background and I had never studied. But, thanks to their dedication, at 15 I learnt to read and write.

Subsequently, Fr Kim Stephano Seon Hyeon, a South Korean fidei donum who died suddenly in May, took care of him for years.

"One day I asked him point-blank: Who makes you do it? To come here, far from your country, in this cold, to take care of us? He responded showing me the crucifix.

On that day, a seed was planted in Peter's heart. Over time, it blossomed into years of seminary in South Korea, hard studies in an unknown language, "but I did not throw in the towel, as the sisters had taught me, he said.

When I became a priest, all my family, even the Buddhist, were happy for me, because they saw my joy. Today my story helps me serve as a bridge between different cultures and experiences, alongside those who are searching". From steppes to skyscrapers.
Concerns about water conservation on the Colorado River, which cuts through Glenwood Canyon, were a hot topic of conservation at last weeks Colorado Water Congress held in Steamboat Springs. Another area of concern about the river is the potential for environmental risks of the Uinta Basin Railways project to ship billions of gallons of crude oil along the Colorado. Rafters congregated on the banks of the Colorado River at Grizzly Creek for a trip to Two Rivers Park in Glenwood Springs, while raising awareness as part of Colorado Risings Rally for the River on Sunday.
Car ADAS Solutions Announces New Calibration Center in Indiana: Midwest ADAS

Published Aug. 30, 2023

Car ADAS Solutions, a leading provider of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) calibration technology and services, announced the addition of a new licensee---Midwest ADAS in Merrillville, IN. The facility, serving body shops in Indiana and Illinois, is co-owned by Andy Tylka and his brother, Geoff Beckett.

We are very excited to be working with another industry leader, sharing our vision of how to tackle the ADAS calibration opportunity, said Greg Peeters, CEO of Car ADAS Solutions. We are energized by Andys and Geoffs aggressive growth strategy and intense focus on repairing vehicles correctly, including ADAS calibrations.

Midwest ADAS held an open house on July 12 with 45 people, which included estimators and technicians from 11 body shops. Many vendors also attended and showed their support.

Attendees told us that it was the nicest calibration center they had seen, said Tykla, who owns body shops in three different regions of Indiana and Illinois. They were impressed that we built our operation around making it as easy as possible for shops to have their calibrations done following OEM standards.

Tylka met Peeters at an AkzoNobel ACOAT Selected North American Performance Group event and heard him discuss the importance of calibration.

I feel like I'm fairly educated about the collision repair industry, but it was beyond information that I knew about calibrations and how they're not necessarily being done properly and the reasons why, said Tylka. What Greg was saying was almost too good to be true with all their support and training.

In February, Tylka and Beckett established Midwest ADAS in Northwest Indiana, outside of Chicago, IL. The first step was finding a location to set up the facility.

A Car ADAS Solutions team member was there the following day, planning the layout for the lighting and electrical, measuring the concrete and ensuring they were meeting OEM specifications.

They were there along the way ensuring everything was set up properly, which made it so easy for us, said Tylka.

With the support of Car ADAS Solutions, they opened Midwest ADAS within 50 days of securing a building.

I was impressed with how organized they were with the turnkey business, said Tylka. They basically have all of the tooling that's required, which is absolutely amazing.

Tylka and Beckett have also been pleased with the training provided. Before sending technicians to the hands-on education classes, the brothers attended the week-long training program in Salt Lake City, UT.

It was wonderful, he said. I was blown away by what I don't know.

Car ADAS Solutions has provided in-house training to employees, as well as to other shops during the recent open house.

It was wonderful having the Car ADAS Solutions team there answering questions, said Tykla.

Teaching surrounding body shop employees on how to calibrate vehicles the right way is a priority for the owners of Midwest ADAS.

Body shops can bring their staff and learn what is involved in a calibration, how everything is done according to the auto manufacturers specifications and the documentation we provide, said Tylka. Just a couple of millimeters off in a calibration can affect the safety of the vehicle and put customers at risk.

Although they were waiting for the catch, Tylka and Beckett have found Car ADAS Solutions has provided support during every step of the process, helping them set up Midwest ADAS.

It's amazing because if our technicians can't figure something out during a calibration, they call our Car ADAS Solutions representative to walk them through the problem and solve any issues that arise, said Tylka. Rather than having an internal person that is the smartest in the room answering questions, we have an extreme expert just a phone call away helping us troubleshoot.

To assist with efficiency, the owners of Midwest ADAS opened an Uber business account for staff to pick up and drop off vehicles.

Its such a time waster for body shops having to send two people to drop off a car and use their own vehicle back and forth, said Tylka. Staying at the shop adds more production value to the business.

For shops that are further away, Midwest ADAS arranges towing for customers.

Every calibration is accompanied by documentation that validates it was done properly and includes photos of every step in the process. Tylka said this helps shops get reimbursed from insurers.

Ive found that insurers love it because they have the documentation and proof that it's being done correctly and the pricing is predictable, he said.

If a vehicle cant be calibrated due to wear and tear or suspension, it is returned at no charge.

As the president of the Indiana Auto Body Association and a shop owner, Tylka often hears members talk about calibration and realizes how far behind the industry is in terms of its knowledge.

Were all in the same boat wanting to do calibrations correctly, he said. I look at us as friends, not competitors.

Tylka stressed the importance of teaching shop owners and their staff on how to identify the safety systems and what is needed to calibrate correctly. He is in the process of creating educational material to share with collision repair facilities.

As the first standalone facility in Indiana to do this the right way, we're trying to set the bar in the industry, he said. I feel like we have the responsibility of educating Indiana and the industry on the need for calibration.

Tylka and Beckett are renovating a second facility and a third and fourth facility are under contract.

We're going to grow as fast as I can locate the buildings, said Tylka, who plans to open additional facilities with Car ADAS Solutions by the end of the year.

I love that we're doing calibrations the right way, he said. When body shops receive the vehicle, they know 100% that it's being calibrated correctly.

Source: Car ADAS Solutions
Following a slow start with 7,842 units sold during a short 1968 model year, the Super Bee moved almost 28,000 cars in 1969. Nowhere near as much as the Road Runner, which delivered a whopping 84,510 examples, but enough to turn it into one of the most popular muscle cars of its time.Sales dropped to 15,506 units in 1970 and only 5,054 examples in 1971, the nameplate's final year on the market, so the 1969 version remains the most common Super Bee out there. But that doesn't mean the 1969 Super Bee is a familiar face in 2023. Many examples were wrecked and scrapped back in the day, so finding a proper survivor is quite a difficult task.Things become even more challenging if you're gunning for one fitted with the 426-cubic-inch (7.0-liter) HEMI because Plymouth sold only 166 that year. The 440-cubic-inch (7.2-liter) "Six Pack" cars aren't very common either at 1,907 examples produced. This leaves more than 25,000 examples made with the entry-level 383-cubic-inch (6.3-liter) big block, but how many of them are still in one piece today?That's a question I can't answer, but these cars aren't a very common sight either. Many of them are still rotting away in junkyards, while most still on the streets have been turned into restomods. Unrestored survivors are hard to come by, and some can get surprisingly expensive due to rare color and option combinations. Like this A4 Silver example here.Reportedly parked in a shed in 1979, this Super Bee spent a whopping 44 years in storage. That's long enough to turn any classic into a pile of junk, but this Mopar took over four decades of sitting like a champ. Sure, some body panels are covered in surface rust, and the paint is worn out, but the sheet metal is straight, and all the chrome trim is still in place.The car is also missing a few bits and pieces, and the wheels are not original, but everything else is just like it came from the factory. Including the 383-cubic-inch V8 and the four-speed manual gearbox, both of the numbers-matching variety. The four-speed makes this Super Bee a rare classic, but the color combo turns it into a Mopar you won't see often at car shows.Yes, the silver paint is rather dull for a vehicle built in an era when Mopar offered the "high impact" color palette. And it's not a rare color on its own. However, while most A4 Silver Super Bees were ordered with black interiors, this one was specified with blue upholstery. I can't confirm it's a one-of-one, but it's definitely a rare bird. Have you seen another one like it lately?This Super Bee first surfaced on the Interwebz in April 2023 when it was purchased from a swap meet in Portland, Oregon. The muscle car is now looking for a new home in Woodinville, Washington, and it's getting a lot of attention. With five days to go, bidding is already at $25,000 , which is a lot for a classic that will probably cost at least $100,000 to restore.
First announced in February 2023, it only took the Japanese automaker half a year to kick off production of the highly anticipated 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander at its factory in Indiana, and now it can be had from around $43k.

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Following the same logic, its 2024 Lexus TX sibling, announced in early June, might kick off production sometime in December at TMMI (Toyota Motor Manufacturing Indiana) in Princeton, Indiana. So, we're in for the long wait if anyone wants the upcoming full-size luxury crossoverwith three-row seating crafted by the luxury division of Toyota, Lexus.Based on the Toyota Grand Highlander, it is now the biggest SUV in the Lexus family, as it's about 10 inches (25 cm) longer than the mid-size siblings GX and RX. Produced on the unibody TNGA-K alongside a multitude of Toyota and Lexus models, the TX crossover SUV will be sold and made exclusively in North America, just like its Grand Highlander cousin.Coming to replace the three-row RX-L from the previous generation, the 2024 Lexus TX will remain the company's sole three-row crossover, as opposed to the larger LX 600, the equivalent mid-range RX and GX, or the smaller UX, NX, and RZ models. And when it hits the market, it will have three powertrain options, just like the 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander.However, the latter goes to market with a 266-hp turbo 2.4-liter, a 247-hp hybrid model, plus the 362-hp Hybrid Max, whereas the 2024 Lexus TX offers just a little more oomph. So, the TX 350 will have the same 2.4-liter turbo four-pot but with 275 hp. The TX 500h F Sport Performance already has 366 electrified horsepower, while the flagship TX 550h+ is a plug-in hybrid with 406 ponies and an electric range of 33 miles (53 km). That's cool, right?Well, what if that is not enough? No worries, if we have to wait and see what happens in the real world, the imaginative realm of digital car content creators is much faster. As such, the good folks over at the AutoYa info channel on YouTube have imagined the CGI looks of the potentially upcoming 'Black Edition' Lexus TX for those who think the market launch should be accompanied by something that can stand out in any crowd.According to the host, maybe not everyone likes the design of the 2024 Lexus TX because it doesn't feature a more aggressive styling compared to the 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander. But perhaps the ' Black Edition ' could help a little with getting a darker, more menacing three-row family SUV. By the way, the resident pixel master imagined it as an add-on package, so it's not necessarily usable solely with the Shadow Black exterior color  instead, the TX gets most ornaments dressed in black to make it a tad more serious, along with dark alloy wheels.
Earlier this month, Fisker presented its portfolio of EVs and made quite an impact by announcing that its upcoming mobility products would be made in the US and qualify for the stringent EV tax credit. But it gets even better  the Alaska pickup truck will be sold in Europe, too.

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Photo: Fisker

An unexpected paradigm shift

Photo: Fisker

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Today, Fisker produces the Ocean crossover(a Tesla Model Y competitor ) in Austria through a contract manufacturing deal with Magna Steyr. If the name doesn't sound familiar, you should know that the Austrian entity is also building the Mercedes-Benz G-Wagen.Fisker sells the Ocean in the US, Canada, and a handful of European countries. The young brand just announced that it's going to invest in opening service centers and showrooms in three new markets.The rebornmaker, however, wants to make the PEAR and other vehicles from its updated offer in America. The company plans to work with Foxconn to turn this goal into reality. That's great news for prospective US customers who might want federal and local incentives to apply to their purchases. It could also be positive for the environment because the supply chain would shorten considerably. Similarly, transportation over the Atlantic Ocean wouldn't be required any longer.But Foxconn is still in a legal fight with bankrupt Lordstown, from which it bought an Ohio car plant for $230 million. As such, Fisker working together with Foxconn is not a done deal yet. We must wait for more details to pop up before rejoicing that competition in the EV space heats up. The more offers are on the market, the better for consumers.But investors and prospective customers should be content about another thing  the Alaska pickup truck is coming to Europe, too.Initially, it was believed the EV was meant as a product aimed exclusively at those living in North America. Things like a special place for a cowboy hat and a large cup holder that can accommodate large 30-ounce soft drinks are associated with an American lifestyle. These characteristics indicated Alaska would be a fully Americanized vehicle.But Fisker's ambitious and intends to trail right behind brands like Rivian or Lucid until it will catch up to Tesla. To do that, it needs many customers that will enjoy its products.The company's CEO published a video on Instagram showing what the Alaska can do. When a netizen asked about the unit's availability in Sweden, Henrik Fisker answered, "2025." That indicates the brand will prepare to manufacture the all-electric pickup truck in both US and Europe. We might soon see an announcement that confirms the expansion of the contract manufacturing deal with Magna Steyr The Alaska pickup truck would be a good fit for both US and European buyers. With a starting price of $45,400 before the EV tax credit and a bed that can expand from a length of 4.5 to 7.5 feet (9.2 feet with the liftgate dropped) thanks to the "Houdini partition," the vehicle could become a strong competitor even for important units like the Rivian R1T or the Ford F-150 Lightning. Fisker Alaska is expected to have two battery options  75and 113 kWh. The maximum range is 340 miles. Considering the zero to 60 mph times of 7.2 and 3.9 seconds, we could see a rear-wheel drive Alaska and a dual-motor all-wheel-drive version. The tri-motor layout is reserved for the swanky Ronin.Alaska production is expected to start in early 2025. Prospective customers can already place a reservation.Finally, keep in mind that things in the automotive industry change often. While the product exists and Fisker seems to be very adamant about becoming a relevant EV maker, there's no guarantee that everything will work out in its favor.Now, watch this video snippet published by Henrik Fisker that shows Alaska's strong suits. Will you be placing a refundable deposit to secure a spot in line?
Chinese embassy in Japan reiterates opposition to ocean discharge of Fukushima nuclear-tainted wastewater

Xinhua) 16:11, August 29, 2023

TOKYO, Aug. 29 (Xinhua) -- The Chinese Embassy in Japan has reiterated China's firm opposition to Japan's ocean discharge of nuclear-contaminated wastewater from the crippled Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant, urging the Japanese government to immediately stop the move.

Chinese Ambassador to Japan Wu Jianghao elaborated on China's solemn position during his meeting with Japanese Vice Foreign Minister Masataka Okano upon the latter's request on Monday.

Lodging solemn representations of the nuisance suffered by the Chinese embassy and consulates in Japan, he noted that the Chinese embassy and consulates in Japan have recently received a large number of harassing phone calls from Japan, which has seriously disrupted their normal operations.

China urges the Japanese side to handle the matter in accordance with law and earnestly protect the safety of the Chinese embassy and consulates, institutions, enterprises and citizens in Japan, as well as Chinese tourists visiting the country, said Wu.

In response to Japan's concerns over the safety of its diplomatic missions and citizens in China, he said that China will continue to protect the safety of the Japanese embassy and consulates in China while safeguarding the legitimate rights and interests of Japanese citizens in China in accordance with the law.

The ambassador stressed that Japan, by starting the ocean discharge of Fukushima nuclear-contaminated wastewater despite strong doubts and objections at home and abroad, is bringing great risks, hidden dangers, and unpredictable harm to the global marine environment as well as mankind's health and safety, which has aroused strong indignation from the international community including China.

There are serious moral, scientific and legal problems in Japan's ocean discharge, the Chinese embassy said, urging the Japanese side to immediately stop its wrongdoing, communicate honestly with neighboring countries in a truly responsible manner, accept strict supervision by the international community, and earnestly adopt a scientific, safe and transparent way to dispose of nuclear-polluted water.

Japan started releasing nuclear-contaminated wastewater from the crippled plant into the Pacific Ocean on Thursday at around 1:00 p.m. local time (0400 GMT), in disregard of concerns and opposition persisted among local fishermen as well as in neighboring nations and Pacific island countries.

Hit by a magnitude-9.0 earthquake and an ensuing tsunami on March 11, 2011, the plant suffered core meltdowns that released radiation, resulting in a level-7 nuclear accident, the highest on the International Nuclear and Radiological Event Scale.

The plant has been generating a massive amount of water tainted with radioactive substances from cooling down the nuclear fuel in the reactor buildings, which are now being stored in about 1,000 storage tanks.

Tokyo Electric Power Company, the plant's operator, said it plans to carry out the first round of release over 17 days to discharge 7,800 tons of the radioactive wastewater.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
The three-year term for corruption that had been handed down to former Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan has been postponed, but it is not yet clear whether or not he will be released from prison.

He was granted bail by the Islamabad High Court, awaiting the outcome of his appeal of his conviction. However, he has been ordered to remain in detention until Wednesday, August 30, by a different court.

Suspension of Three-Year Corruption Sentence

Khan's attorneys claim that since he was deposed from power a year ago, more than a hundred accusations have been filed against him. These range from organizing violent demonstrations to disclosing national secrets. In connection with these allegations, many arrest warrants have been issued.

Khan, 70, claims the reasons for the accusations against him are purely political.

According to BBC, no date has been scheduled for the Supreme Court to hear the plea filed by the former prime minister's attorneys to prevent him from being imprisoned in any other case. They indicated the Supreme Court would not set a date until they heard the High Court's decision.

According to one of Khan's attorneys, "We are very hopeful he will be released. So far we have not been informed that he is arrested under any other case," Gauhar Khan stated.

On August 5, Imran Khan was given a three-year prison term for failing to report income from the sale of goods he received while in office (from 2018 to 2022). The value of the gifts was estimated to be over 140 million Pakistani rupees ($635,000). They reportedly consisted of Rolex watches, a ring, and cuff links.

His conviction disqualified him from running for office for five years. Khan is now detained in connection with a "cipher case" involving the suspected disclosure of a diplomatic cable.

The appeal that has temporarily halted Khan's punishment centers on the claim that he was not given an adequate opportunity to present a defense.

Another high court had already ruled that the sedition accusations against him were illegally brought, so this news comes at a good time.

It has been stated by the authorities that Khan's detention and subsequent ban from standing for public office had nothing to do with politics. They keep saying the judges who ruled in favor of Imran Khan's appeal were biased.

Also Read: Pakistan Supreme Court Questions Islamabad High Court Ruling on Ex-PM Involvement In Recent Riots

Arrests That Sparked Violent Protests

Approximately 85 kilometers (52 miles) from the capital Islamabad, Khan is being imprisoned at Attock jail, a modest institution in Punjab province with longstanding links to the military.

Several members of Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party have apparently been detained there in the past, as reported by the local media.

For months before his sentence, his supporters fought intense combats with authorities in an effort to keep him free.

For failing to show up to court on May 9, Khan was taken into custody. The arrest was deemed unlawful. He was freed three days later.

His detention, however, provoked demonstrations throughout Pakistan, some of which became violent and targeted military sites. The demonstrations allegedly featured many thousand of his followers, many of whom were subsequently imprisoned.

Also Read: Pakistan's Parliament Dissolved; General Elections Declared

@ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
Established by Masashuiko Waiku back in 2001, Bull Dock is one of the most prolific workshops of its kind in a country teeming with such firms. We are, of course, talking about Japan  the home of anime, sushi, and some of the raddest custom motorcycles you will ever come across. Parts fabrication, regular maintenance, and restorations are all part of Bull Docks repertoire, but were here to talk about their fully-fledged one-offs.

Photo: Bull Dock via Return of the Cafe Racers

Photo: Bull Dock via Return of the Cafe Racers

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They refer to each of these as a GT-M, which stands for Genuine Tuning Machine. The specimen pictured above was developed by Waiku-san's experts in collaboration with Nitron  the UK-based aftermarket suspension brand. Nitrons Japanese branch commissioned this build with the intent of showcasing their products, and Bull Dock clearly delivered in a big way!Some may shudder at the idea that an iconic Kawasaki Z1-R was irreversibly modified in the process, but were actually not mad at all. Bull Docks bike-modding connoisseurs transformed the 1978-model Kawi into something more suitable for todays roads, from both a cosmetic and mechanical standpoint. Oh, and theres a lot more to it than just visual appeal and top-tier suspension, so weve got quite a bit to cover here.After a complete teardown, the GT-M treatment began with some intricate frame surgery. Masashuiko and his crew reinforced the Z1-R's skeleton with gussets wherever they saw fit, while also reshaping its subframe to their liking. The original swingarm has been deleted altogether, making room for a boxy aluminum substitute thats 15 millimeters (0.6 inches) longer than stock.Its considerably wider, too, allowing for a fat rear wheel to join the party later on. Bull Dock took care of the suspension before addressing the footgear, and this is where the Nitron paraphernalia came into play. At the front, you will now find 43 mm (1.7-inch) telescopic forks with high-grade internals, while the rear end carries a pair of NTR R3 shock absorbers. These bad boys feature progressive springs and piggyback reservoirs.Down in the unsprung sector, the motorcycle flaunts 17-inch Lavorante hoops made of carbon fiber, and their rims are shod in sticky Bridgestone rubber. Abundant stopping power was on the grocery list, as well, so Bull Dock installed top-shelf Brembo calipers and rotors all-round. The front setup is particularly enticing, with twin floating discs pinched by radial calipers.Those swanky braking upgrades would be vital, mind you, because the Japanese specialists were looking to extract a considerable dose of extra grunt from the Z1-R 's inline-four mill. They bored it out to 1,203cc, while replacing the pistons and cams with high-performance aftermarket parts. New titanium valves and springs were also added, along with a fresh set of Mikuni TMR carburetors breathing through velocity stacks.In addition, we see a stunning four-into-one exhaust system made of titanium, and it works in unison with the aforementioned mods to unlock a total of 150 hp. This force makes its way to the rear wheel via a six-speed gearbox equipped with a quickshifter, which is a significant improvement over the standard five-speed.Other drivetrain-related enhancements came in the forms of replacement sprockets, a modern clutch, and all-new sprockets. Bull Dock really went to town here, turning the vintage Kawasaki into an absolute animal! Their transformation was no less intriguing from a visual standpoint, but the bikes custom outfit doesnt stray too far from the original.Basing their design on the Z1-R's stock fuel tank, the guys fashioned a custom aluminum alternative from scratch. Right behind it lies a fiber-reinforced polymer tail that merges with the seat pan and side covers to seamlessly form a single unit. Theres a tailor-made solo seat placed up top, along with snazzy carbon fiber add-ons fore and aft.was once again the material of choice for crafting the front and rear fenders, but it shows up in the cockpit area, too. It does so as a bespoke instrument cluster panel and sporty mirror housings fitted straight onto the handlebars. As for the instrumentation itself, it consists of a fuel gauge, four warning lights, and an ST200 Clubman tachometer from Stacks inventory.Youll encounter a billet top clamp a bit further back, and theres also an aftermarket steering damper to aid with stability. Clip-on handlebars finish things off in the cockpit, sporting Galespeed brake and clutch master cylinders, as well as the repurposed switchgear of a newer Kawi. All this paraphernalia is fronted by a custom-built fairing, which was styled after the factory component just like the gas tank.In terms of paintwork, the cyan-finished springs worn by the Nitron shocks set the tone. The ravishing hue got carried over to the bodywork, and it was subsequently topped with white highlights. Pinches of cyan can also be seen on the front brake rotor flanges and Brembo caliper logos, while a mesmerizing purple tint is present on the upper forks. Joined by the titanium exhaust, some red accents, and a teeny bit of gold, the color palette chosen by Bull Dock is pure bliss.
Apple will take the wraps off the new-generation iPhones next month, and software developers are already working around the clock on preparing their software for the 2023 smartphone lineup.

Apple's Dynamic Island

Photo: Apple

Google Maps support for Live Activities

Photo: Uber

Other Apple announcements this September

Google is one of them, as the search giant is reportedly getting ready to update Google Maps with a feature it's been working on since February.Google Maps will soon get support for Live Activities, a feature that will display turn-by-turn guidance and the ETA of an active route on the lock screen and in the Dynamic Island of Apple's smartphones.Here's everything you need to know about this new feature.The Dynamic Island debuted on the iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro Max as an evolved version of the controversial notch (which made its way to the iPhone lineup in 2017 when Apple launched the iPhone X).Compared to the notch, the Dynamic Island serves additional purposes, as it can expand to display notifications and live content, such as information about the playing song.The feature is currently exclusive to the iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro Max, but the tech giant will expand it to the entire iPhone lineup with the debut of the iPhone 15. The standard version and the Plus will also get the Dynamic Island, so the feature will be available on six different models (two launched last year and four more debuting this year).Google announced support for Live Activities in February, promising to launch the feature "in the coming months." Despite Google Maps having a gigantic user base, part of it using an iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro Max, the search giant has never been in a rush to deliver this highly anticipated functionality.However, Google is reportedly finalizing the work on Live Activities support in Google Maps, so the feature could be available on the iPhone 15 on day one. It will also support the iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro Max, but Google plans to sync the feature's release with the debut of Apple's new smartphones.Live Activities will allow Google Maps users to get turn-by-turn directions without unlocking the iPhone (assuming navigation was previously configured within the app).Uber's support for Live Activities is the easiest way to understand how the integration works and why it's such a great addition to the Google Maps feature arsenal.When you run the Uber app and wait for the driver to pick you up, you can lock the iPhone and look at the screen without unlocking the device to get essential information. Uber uses Live Activities to show the time remaining until the driver arrives and to display trip progress towards the destination. The Live Activities integration uses a clever design that shows the remaining time and distance, along with live updates, to let you track the trip without having to access the full version of the app.Google is probably aiming for a similar approach with Google Maps, though the feature will only come in handy to drivers who run navigation on their mobile devices.If you use Google Maps on CarPlay, the Live Activities integration won't change anything on your side. However, if you rely on your smartphone for turn-by-turn guidance, Google Maps with Live Activities will allow you to keep the device locked and follow a recommended route using the essential information on the lock screen.Furthermore, the new feature will make following walking directions much easier. We've all seen tourists walking around like zombies, holding their phones and looking at Google Maps to find the directions to a nearby location. With this feature update, all these zombies can keep their iPhones locked and still get the critical walking directions to a destination.Apple will hold its annual fall event on September 12, and in addition to a new iPhone generation, the company will also announce other products that Google might be interested in.One of them is the Apple Watch Series 9, an improved version of the Apple Watch that will likely get a new chip (the latest-generation models used the same chip, so the Series 9 will be the first update in several years to get a hardware upgrade).Apple Watch Ultra 2 could also get a refresh, but it won't be a massively upgraded model. Apple will use 3D-printed parts to reduce the weight of the device.Google Maps is also available on the Apple Watch, so the company is probably already working on adding support for the new models. With Google Maps on the wrist, users can follow a suggested route without unlocking their smartphones, so the zombies I told you about a few minutes ago can find their destinations even easier.All new Apple devices will go on sale by the end of September.
Vehicle GPS trackers have been around for many years, but Apple's AirTag has rapidly become the new norm in car tracking. The AirTag is smaller, easier to install, and offers great convenience, allowing the owner to track its location from an iPhone.

However, AirTags have become a double-edged sword , as people don't always use it to track their belongings. Individuals with nefarious purposes planted AirTags for stalking or keeping track of the vehicles they planned to steal.Someone on reddit has discovered another questionable use of the AirTag. And it caused a serious legal debate online.A reddit user explains they purchased a 2006 Toyota Corolla from a Buy Here, Pay Here (BHPH) car dealership. A BHPH dealership is a business that offers financing, so the customer wouldnt have to contact a bank to buy a car. They see a car they like, discuss the financial terms with the dealership, and can drive it home with a contract that includes all future regular payments.The redditor says they paid $3,000 for the Corolla and agreed to pay another $3,000 bi-weekly. Shortly after driving the car home, he received notifications on the iPhone that an AirTag was moving with him.Apple fitted the AirTag with anti-stalking protections, so when the device moves with another iPhone, it sends an alert to the device. The smartphone's owner can generate a sound to locate the AirTag, with law enforcement advising people who believe they're in danger to bring the device to the closest police station.The Corolla buyer explains he searched the car and discovered the AirTag planted under the carpet on the driver's side. It has the dealership's name on it, so it was installed to keep track of the car. The redditor says the contract does not mention the AirTag or a GPS tracker to monitor the vehicle's location.The question causing so much debate online is whether using an AirTag by a BHPH dealership to keep track of the sold vehicles is legal or not. Most dealerships previously used hardwired GPS trackers to track their cars until the vehicle was paid for in full. The AirTag makes the whole thing more convenient.However, this isn't the problem here.The redditor says he lives in Tennessee, and according to local regulations, it's illegal "for a person who leases a motor vehicle to knowingly install, conceal, or otherwise place an electronic tracking device in or on the motor vehicle without the consent of the lessee of the vehicle." The buyer says there's no mention of the AirTag in the contract, and the dealership never told him their location would be tracked.The official regulations clearly show that placing an AirTag in a car to monitor its location without telling the buyer is illegal in Tennessee, but with Apple's device gaining popularity, the number of such cases is likely to increase.The next question is what the redditor can do. Reporting the case to the police or the body that regulates car dealerships should be the first thing, but the nefarious uses of the AirTag have already proved on several occasions that we need new laws.In one case, a police officer found the location of a man's motorcycle without being able to inspect the truck where it was hiding because they didn't have a warrant The Corolla buyer says they'll keep the AirTag in the car just in case it gets stolen.
That means they would only remain with the third generation, newly standalone D41 Nissan Frontier  the first dedicated version for North America, to fight the tidal wave of mid-size pickup truck novelties. Those include the all-new Ford Ranger (complete with Ranger Raptor version), the latest Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon siblings, as well as the great N400 Toyota Tacoma.So, what about the full-size pickup truck sector  they just abandon it for the sake of the Toyota Tundra, Ram trucks, Chevy Silverado and GMC Sierra, plus the Ford F-Series? Well, if that happens in the real world, it doesn't necessarily need to occur across the imaginative realm of digital car content creators. Instead, maybe the Navara nameplate could also arrive in North America as a member of the Nismo pack with full-size Pro-4X underpinnings.That's entirely wishful thinking, for sure, as the Nissan Navara is the Frontier-equivalent mid-size pickup truck for global markets. Besides, if the dedicated Titan and Titan XD failed to succeed, what could make anyone believe that a Navara would prevail? Plus, we haven't heard of high-riding Nismo models for North America  although that's an occurrence in other regions, such as the Middle East.Anyway, Dimas Ramadhan, the virtual automotive artist behind the Digimods DESIGN channel on YouTube, has taken up the CGI task of revealing a larger-than-life Nissan Navara Nismo Pro-4X full-size pickup truck. And it's not hard to discover the sources of inspiration  the pixel master clearly mixed the Nissan Titan's body with styling elements from the Patrol and Pathfinder off-road SUVs and then added some crimson Nismo DNA to the digital cocktail.Although it's pretty far-fetched to imagine that Nissan would ditch the Titan and Titan XD nameplate in favor of a Navara Nismo model, this doesn't look half-bad as a full-size pickup truck ready to bash dunes and crawl rocks at any speed. And it could easily find a home among the sandy deserts of the Middle East and Latin America. Hey, it could even be suitable for North America if anyone dared to mix with the sector's big guns  Ram's 1500 TRX and Ford's F-150 Raptor R.But, of course, there would be trouble for the Japanese automaker when trying to find an appropriate powertrain to fight the supercharged V8s of the potential American rivals. However, Nissan doesn't have such capabilities, so we suggest that Navara Nismo be equipped with the 2024 GT-R Nismo's 3.8-liter twin-turbo VR38DETT engine, which is good for 600 horsepower in that application.With the hypothetical Nissan Navara Nismo full-size pickup truck being a heavy-duty application with ample space in the engine bay, it's not that hard to imagine the Japanese engineers could push the stunning mill to at least 700 horsepower to match the US competitors, right?
There was a time when 700-plus horsepower was unheard of in a series-production sport utility vehicle. Fiat Chrysler Automobiles broke this barrier with the 2018 model year Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk, a Hellcat-powered brute with 707 ponies and 645 pound-feet (875 Nm) from a 6.2-liter blown V8.

Photo: Porsche

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The Dodge Durango SRT Hellcat followed suit with 710 horsepower. New for 2024, the Cayenne Turbo E-Hybrid entices prospective customers with a plug-in hybrid twin-turbo V8 powertrain rated at 729 horsepower. That's more than Ferrari offers in the 715-hp Purosangue, yet it's not the most powerful series-production sport utility vehicle on sale right now.Porsche is ranked in second place, for the aesthetically challenged BMW XM Label Red is rocking 738 horsepower at full chatter. Based on looks, however, the Cayenne Turbo E-Hybrid is the clear winner by most accounts. That's not all, though. At $148,550 with destination (make that $153,050 for the Cayenne Turbo E-Hybrid Coupe), the Porker is a better deal as well. The XM Label Red stickers at $185,995.Scheduled to arrive in North American showrooms in spring 2024, the Cayenne Turbo E-Hybrid belts out 591 horsepower from a twin-turbo V8 shared with Audi, Bentley, and Lamborghini. The 4.0-liter mill could have been tuned more aggressively, though. Porsche quotes 650 horsepower in the internal combustion-only Cayenne Turbo GT Coupe, whereas the Lamborghini Urus S and Performante crank out 657 horsepower.Some might say that Porsche restricted the Cayenne Turbo E-Hybrid's engine for the sake of the ZF-supplied automatic transmission, although the aforementioned examples prove this hypothesis wrong. As you might have guessed by now, the Volkswagen Group couldn't allow a Cayenne to be more powerful than an Urus.The 591-hp eighter is assisted by a 174-hp electric motor. Combined, they develop 700 pound-feet (950 Nm) of tire-shredding torque. A lot more than Ferrari's V12-powered Purosangue, yet not as much as the 738 pound-feet (1,000 Nm) of the BMW XM Label Red.Over in Europe, the Cayenne Turbo E-Hybrid promises 3.7 seconds to 100 kilometers per hour (62 miles per hour). That's 3.5 seconds to 60 miles per hour (97 kilometers per hour) in the United States. The Urus Performante and Ferrari Purosangue are quicker, with both promising to clock 100 kph in just 3.3 seconds. Porsche claims the Cayenne Turbo E-Hybrid tops 295 kilometers per hour (183 miles per hour).Being a plug-in hybrid, you're likely curious to find out how much electric range this fellow sports. The answer is 82 kilometers (51 miles) in the's urban test cycle and no more than 73 kilometers (45 miles) in the WLTP's combined test cycle. Porsche didn't share the Environmental Protection Agency's estimate for the newcomer. For future reference, the pre-facelift variant is good for up to 11 miles (18 kilometers).Truth be told, Porsche did work its magic. The lithium-ion battery offers 25.9, up from 14.1 kWh. Charging times have also shortened thanks to an 11-onboard charger, namely 2.5 hours to full.Porsche didn't forget Porsches are great-handling vehicles either, gifting the Cayenne Turbo E-Hybrid with trick adaptive air suspension that incorporates two-chamber and two-valve technology. Standard Porsche Torque Vectoring Plus also needs to be highlighted, along with optional go-faster goodies such as a rear-axle steering system and Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control.Supremely comfortable and luxurious inside, the Cayenne Turbo E-Hybrid stands out with the help of its Race-Tex headliner, a quad exhaust for the standard body style, two outlets for the coupe, and large brake calipers painted in red (or yellow for the carbon-ceramic brakes). More information on the 2024 Porsche Cayenne Turbo E-Hybrid is available in the release below.
Waze is significantly better than Apple Maps for several reasons. First, the crowdsourcing engine allows users to send traffic reports and help the application find faster routes to the destination. Apple Maps also packs incident reporting, but the feature is yet to gain traction, even in the United States.Second, Waze has a larger user base, as it also works on Android and Android Auto. As a result, the number of reports is significantly higher, whereas Apple Maps only receives reports from iPhone owners.However, using Waze on CarPlay has become a major pain in the neck and is often dangerous due to a bug that causes the app to stick with the light visual style even at night.Users reported the glitch in early August after receiving a new Waze update. The latest Waze version on iOS devices is 4.97 and received the go-ahead on the App Store on August 2. It's most likely responsible for the bug, as the previous update dates back to July 13.Waze users who turned to Google's forums claim the application ignores the "Only at night" setting, sticking with the light mode even when driving in total darkness. The dark mode can only be activated by opening the app on the iPhone, so users must unlock their smartphones and launch Waze to turn off the daytime mode on CarPlay.It was initially believed that only CarPlay wireless suffered from the bug, but it now looks like the wired sibling also struggles with the same problem. The workaround is the same in both cases: users must open the application on the iPhone to enable the dark mode when driving at night. However, users say this workaround only restores the dark mode the first time Waze launches on the iPhone. If the app is already running on the smartphone, CarPlay sticks with the light mode unless the user force-closes Waze on the iPhone and relaunches it.Using Waze with the daytime mode when driving at night is dangerous, as the screen is too bright.The Google-owned company is yet to acknowledge the glitch, but given the behavior has become widespread, a patch could be included in the next Waze update. A new version should start rolling out in the coming days, as Waze typically releases a new update every month.In the meantime, users must stick with the manual workaround detailed above, as going back to a previous Waze version is not allowed on iPhones unless users restore a complete phone backup from iTunes.
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29 August 2023 08:30 (UTC+04:00)

Rena Murshud Read more

Some rhetorics, unpleasant expressions and behaviors towards Azerbaijan have been observed from the Russian State Duma for several times. After some of the rhetoric of the anti-Azerbaijani Konstantin Zatulin, the repeated political mistakes that may even cause diplomatic tension between the two countries have already started to raise many questions about Russian politicians.

On the eve of Azerbaijan's struggle with separatism in Garabagh, the participation of an official of the Russian State Duma in support of another event promoting separatism against Azerbaijan has greatly disappointed Azerbaijan.

Perhaps everyone remembers the claim of a number of factions who took advantage of the gap in the state system of Azerbaijan, which had just left the Soviet Union in 1993, to establish a kind of "Talish-Mugan autonomous republic". Those events were a part of the separatist politics that spread on ethnic grounds, as in Garabagh. However, thanks to the visionary policy of national leader Heydar Aliyev, those attempts were resolutely prevented.

The oher day, an event was held in the Russian city of Yekaterinburg to celebrate the anniversary of the attempt that took place 30 years ago. And the most interesting point is the participation of the head of the Russian State Duma, Igor Volodin. He explained his participation in this event, directed against the state policy and territorial integrity of the Republic of Azerbaijan, simply by not allowing discrimination between nationalities. However, Volodyn's participation in the event reveals two main points: either the head of the State Duma has no political knowledge and is not aware of the states of the region, or the politicians sitting in the Russian State Duma aim to create tension between Russia and Azerbaijan. In both cases, this step is a big blow to the political influence of the Russian state.

"Unfortunately, such political mistakes are related not only to the Caucasian states, but also to Chechnya and the Volga region, and this is not the first time.... In general, according to the constitution, foreign policy is the President and the Foreign Ministry. I am very sorry that such events are taking place in my country. This is, of course, a Shame for us."

Russian political analyst Alexander Razuvaev told this in a comment on the matter for Azernews, saying that such behavior is not conducive to good neighborly relations between Russia and Azerbaijan.

According to the political analyst, Yekaterinburg in Russia is known for its political life. Opposition to Putin, the pro-Western mood is a very sad fact, of course.

Speaking about Azerbaijani-Russian relations, Alexander noted that Azerbaijan is of key importance for Russia, for example, the North-South Corridor, trade with Iran and India, close economic ties, and so on.

"One can only hope that the trick of the chairman of the Yekaterinburg Duma will not go unanswered. Unfortunately, this can be called unacceptable behavior. I think that Russia needs to be put in order. Separatism should not have a place either in Azerbaijan or in Russia. I can only say "It's just a shame. I have no other words," the expert emphasised.

Tural Ismayilov, an analyst of Social Research Centre, an Azerbaijan-based think tank, also gave an opinion on the issue. Speaking about the behavior of the chairman of the Duma in Yekaterinburg, the political analyst expressed his dissatisfaction, said that it is a pity that the so-called separatist measures against the territorial integrity of Azerbaijan are being carried out in Russia today. However, the analyst added that Russia has never officially questioned the territorial integrity of Azerbaijan and at the same time does not support separatist measures against the country.

Further, the pundit noted that today various Anti-Azerbaijan calls regarding the territorial integrity of the country are heard from different cities of Russia. Several separatists living in Yekaterinburg express provocative views against the territorial integrity of Azerbaijan in many media outlets. At the same time, they promote some provocative programs as well.

In addition to his comments, Alexander Razuvaev explained the diplomatic disgrace that is interpreted as a direct disrespect for the territorial integrity of Azerbaijan. Besides, he called the participation of the official of the Russian Duma, Igor Volodin, who currently holds an official position in Russia unacceptable.

Regardless of the Russian diplomat trying to justify it, this is the most wrong step taken at the state level. As an official of the State Duma, Igor Volodin should have studied the event in advance and diplomatically understood its subtleties. Especially at the current sensitive moment, when the Azerbaijani-Russian relations are developing so much, not taking into account this factor is a big novelty from a political point of view," the expert noted.

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

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29 August 2023 19:00 (UTC+04:00)

Abbas Ganbay Read more

Since the second Garabagh war, which lasted 44 days, Azerbaijan has been continuing to restore the lands liberated from the invaders and build new, environmentally clean, green energy-based infrastructure for IDPs within the framework of the "Great Return" programme appointed by the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev.

In Armenia, while life for the losing side continues, revenge and hatred towards Azerbaijan have not diminished but have only accumulated to their full extent. The separatist authorities, instead of going to the meeting with the understanding of the high losses of the Armenian society, strengthened their power, fought for it and shifted their sins to each other, as an example, i.e. called allegedly "blockade of Khankendi" or "blocking" the Lachin road, etc.., where the separatist regime appropriated power, fought for it, put their sins on each other, etc., where the separatist regime appropriated humanitarian aid from both Yerevan and Azerbaijan for the residents of Garabagh and Khankendi, as a result of which it accused Azerbaijan of alleged blockade and even genocide.

Apart from the EU observer missions from the European Union, Canada, France and Russia on the border with Armenia, which were supposedly sent to check and monitor the conflict zone, to identify the real causes of the conflict, ultimately did not bear fruit in the way they wanted. Armenia is divided into two forces that want to take control of the government, one based in Khankendi, the other operating from Yerevan, but the so-called blockade of the Lachin road and the Khankendi town, allegedly by Azerbaijan, is broadcast to the world. In the UN Security Council Azerbaijan proved its right: there is neither genocide nor famine.

David Babayan, Advisor to the President of the so-called Artsakh, in a conversation with the correspondent of Armenian News, as well as other political figures of this country, reinforced the minds of their society with empty words and promises in the hope of a better life for Armenia, in case of need for mediation in the negotiations between Azerbaijan and Armenia to establish peace between the countries.

According to Babayan, minister of a so-called regime, speaking to an Armenian correspondent, the emphasis in the negotiations should be placed on the allegedly created humanitarian situation, alluding to the alleged blockade of Khankendi, and that while there is no clear deadline for Armenia, political issues can be postponed for later, and the issue can be raised only in a critical situation when choosing among four scenarios. From Babayan's far-fetched scenarios, the first scenario, in his opinion, is the preservation of the status quo, which, in his opinion, is impossible, and rightly so, as there was no state before the war, only accumulated revenge and enmity during 30 years of occupation of Azerbaijani territories.

In the second scenario, the advisor predicted being part of Azerbaijan, subtly hinting again at the fear of Armenians of Western Azerbaijan, where in the recent events of last week it was strongly expressed and propagandised by Armenians and their authorities that the future territories of Armenia will be part of Azerbaijani territories, imposing again a well-known lie in the minds of society and the world. This idea was supported by a false document written by the "TATOYAN Foundation" and presented to the public in the person of Azerbaijan. What adds oil to the fire is that Armenians want to see more and more clashes, and strife, to involve a third party in this issue, and most importantly, to impose lies on the Armenian society under the guise of truth and freedom.

For Armenians, being part of Azerbaijan is unacceptable, according to the advisor to the second scenario. What are the two remaining scenarios for Armenia, according to the advisor? The third scenario is a struggle, which, in his opinion, is not known how it will end, and it is true, as the struggle for Armenia, in the end, did not lead to good, only deviate to the wrong way, which led to numerous victims. The fourth scenario, which is not different from the others, but adds to the fantasy of the Counsellor, is the Biblical Exodus, where again by implication, the Exodus is the end of the chain of events that began with the resettlement, due to drought and the ensuing famine.

This is a confirmation that the goodness and love in the hearts of Armenians are not enough to see favourable scenarios. Azerbaijan offered peace and life to the inhabitants of Armenian origin of Garabagh as well as Khankendi, in response to the refusal, and the appropriation of humanitarian aid to itself, in the form of separatism, and imposing on the world, allegedly famine and blockade in Khankendi. But for the advisor to the "artsakh president", he says, it is important to maintain dignity, which is already lame, and to be realistic, when they put on their perforated glasses.

The rallies and fatal protests in Armenia have not stopped. Most are not happy with the introduction of the Prime Minister's policy, as Pashinyan recognised entire Garabagh as part of Azerbaijan, and according to a citizen of Yerevan during the rally "Mother Armenia" will not allow Yerevan to turn into Erivan and Armenia into West Azerbaijan."

Despite the false policy of introduction and propaganda of Armenians, the line of trucks with humanitarian aids will move along the route Aghdam-Khankendi.

The Azerbaijan Red Crescent Society has already set forth on a way toward Khankendi with 40 tonnes of flour loaded in trucks. And this is the first stage of the humanitarian assistance being sent to Armenian minority, namely Azerbaijani citizens living in Garabagh. Azerbaijan will closely monitor the processes that are taking place there. And hopefully, this step will be favourably received by the public, the international community, as well as the population of Armenian minority living in Khankendi.

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29 August 2023 15:46 (UTC+04:00)

Qabil Ashirov Read more

Constructing of infrastructure in the Azerbaijans liberated territories continues without interruption, Azernews reports.

Azerbaijans main electric provider Azerishiq OSJC completed the construction of two transformer substations in Agdam. The capacity of the stations is 4x2500 kVA.

Based on the instructions of President Ilham Aliyev, one of the main priorities of "Azerishiq" OJSC is the construction and reconstruction of electricity networks in our regions freed from occupation. According to the tasks, work is being continued rapidly in Agdam even today. The construction of two transformer substations with a capacity of 4x2500 kVA each of 35 kV for the city center's electricity supply has been completed. It is expected that the roads will be brought to a uniform level in accordance with the urban development plan for laying connecting 35 kV cable lines, the company said.

The company also noted that the construction of 35 kV power lines to Saricali, Khidirli and Kangarli villages of Aghdam will start in the near future.

It should be noted that the foundation of the new Digital Management Center and the Training-Education Complex was laid in the city of Aghdam, and its construction began. The establishment of the Digital Control Center of electric networks will create a basis for providing continuous control over the process of electric power distribution, energy efficiency, continuity and quality of electric power.

In the Training Center, with the participation of local and foreign trainers, the training of qualified personnel in the field of electric power, the rules for the application and operation of renewable energy sources, the formation of professional habits, and the organization of training and mastery competitions in real working conditions are planned.

With the participation of President Ilham Aliyev, control over the progress of the works in the facilities laid in the territories liberated from occupation and in the direction of the reconstruction of the electricity industry was further strengthened.

To recall, Azerbaijans Garabagh and seven adjacent districts were invaded by Armenians in the 1990s. The Armenian armed groups looted the regions and leveled all constructions. Martar Melkonian, the brother of leader of the ASALA terror organisation and warmonger Monte Melkonian describes looting the villages in his book. It is worth noting that since Agdam had resisted much longer the attacks of Armenian armed groups in comparison with other regions, the city was subjected to more destruction than other regions. As if, Armenians took revenge from the city. Many compare Agdam with Hiroshima. Azerbaijan liberated most of its invaded territories in 2020 and started the reconstruction and restoration works in the liberated territories.

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The Philippine Bureau of the Treasury announced Tuesday (August 29) the implementation of rules and regulations (IRR) for the Maharlika Investment Fund (MIF) Act which was issued on August 28 and would take effect on September 12.

According to Philippine law, any IRR would take effect 15 days after its publication in the country's Official Gazette or in a newspaper of general circulation.

"The MIF will serve as a crucial financing mechanism to widen fiscal space, ease the burden on local funds, and reduce reliance on official development assistance [ODA] in funding big-ticket projects such as those specified in the recently approved Infrastructure Flagship Project [IFP] list," Finance Secretary Benjamin Diokno said.

Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. signed the legislation last July, describing it as an "extremely important measure" and "bold step" as Manila aims to strengthen the economy in a post-pandemic world. Diokno added that same month that the drafting of the IRR was in its final stage, CNN's Philippine bureau reported.

Read Also: 'A New Philippines Has Come': Marcos Delivers 2nd State of the Nation Address

How Would the Fund be Created?

According to the country's Treasury, the national government should source its PHP 50 billion ($881 million) contribution from "100% of the dividends" of the Philippine Central Bank (BSP) for the first and second years upon effectivity of the law.

The fund would also take a 10% share from the income of the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) for a period of 5 years; 10% of revenues from gaming operations of other government-owned gaming operators/regulators; government assets and proceeds from the privatization of government assets; and other sources, such as royalties and/or special assessments for a period of five years.

The bureau added agencies providing social security and public health insurance services are not allowed to invest in the fund, a deeply contested issue during the time it was being legislated.

PH Finance Chief: Now Hiring Maharlika Investment CEO

Meanwhile, Diokno said the government is currently looking for people to fill leadership roles for the Maharlika Investment Corporation, an entity created by the newly signed act.

"The search for the President and CEO (PCEO) of the Maharlika Investment Corporation, two regular directors, and three independent directors is on," the finance chief stated. "The qualifications of the PCEO, the regular directors, and the independent directors are provided in Section 39, 22, and 26 of the IRR, respectively."

A copy of the implementation guidelines is yet to be published for public viewing as of this report.

Related Article: Philippine VP Sara Duterte Defends Roughly $2.6 Million in Confidential Funds

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29 August 2023 22:39 (UTC+04:00)

On August 29, President of the French Republic Emmanuel Macron made a phone call to President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev, Azernews reports, citing Azertag.

During the telephone conversation, the situation in the region, the issue of the opening of the Aghdam-Khankendi and Lachin-Khankendi roads were discussed.

The head of state said that Armenia and the puppet regime, which it created and supports in the Karabakh region of Azerbaijan, are deliberately creating artificial obstacles for the use of the Aghdam-Khankendi road, and are exploiting this for political manipulation.

The President of Azerbaijan noted that Armenia and the puppet regime refused the initial agreement reached on the transportation of goods via the Aghdam-Khankendi road through the mediation of the International Committee of the Red Cross. The Armenian leadership also brought goods, which it claimed were for humanitarian purposes, in the direction of the state border without the Azerbaijani sides agreement, and the purpose here is political speculation.

The head of state underlined that Azerbaijan invited representatives of the Armenian population of Karabakh to the capital Baku and other cities of Azerbaijan to discuss reintegration issues, but they refused and purposefully made allegations about the tense humanitarian situation. President Ilham Aliyev noted that following the opening of the Aghdam-Khankendi road, the Lachin-Khankendi road can be used by observing the customs and border regime rules of Azerbaijan.

President Ilham Aliyev also pointed out that a car convoy loaded with food cargo has today left to that area via the Azerbaijan Red Crescent Society.

President Emmanuel Macron said that France is ready to contribute to the stabilization of the situation and the elimination of the current tension, and proposed to continue contacts between the relevant authorities of France and Azerbaijan.

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29 August 2023 08:00 (UTC+04:00)

Statements by French officials that humanitarian aid will be sent to Armenians living in the Garabagh economic region of Azerbaijan is a continuation of the show started by Armenia, Farid Shafiyev, Chairman of the Center of Analysis of International Relations (AIR Center), Azernews reports.

He believes that if France wants to establish peace in the region, it should cooperate closely with Azerbaijan and Armenia. Shafiyev also warned that the UN Security Council may take a diplomatic step against Azerbaijan and that France must first make certain preparations in order to pass a resolution or any statement.

According to Shafiyev, however, official Paris is taking steps in the opposite direction, unilaterally cooperating with Armenia and the radical groups of this country. "Sending humanitarian aid should be agreed with Azerbaijan first. However, we do not see such an agreement. That's why it's a show."

He believes that currently, the main serious issue is the steps that can be taken by the UN Security Council, therefore, Azerbaijan should be vigilant: "They tried three times to pass a resolution against Azerbaijan, but they failed. This does not mean that Azerbaijan should be reassured. There may be another provocation in the Security Council, and this is a serious matter. Discussing any issue is a serious matter, we must definitely take countermeasures. In my opinion, the most dangerous point is the taking of a diplomatic step against Azerbaijan in the Security Council. The worst outcome here is the acceptance of the resolution. It is not good to make any statement, either."

Shafiyev said he does not expect any statement against Azerbaijan in the next month or two. He emphasized that France must first make certain preparations in this direction:

"For the adoption of the resolution in the UN Security Council, nine countries must support France and five permanent members must not object to it. Therefore, France should work together with Russia and come to a common position in order to adopt a resolution or any statement. It seems unlikely, but I don't completely rule it out."

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29 August 2023 11:49 (UTC+04:00)

The delegation led by the Chief of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of the Republic of Turkiye, Army General Metin Gurak, who is on an official visit to Azerbaijan, visited the graves of the National Leader of Azerbaijani people Heydar Aliyev and prominent ophthalmologist, academician Zarifa Aliyeva in the Alley of Honor, as well as the Alley of Shehids (Martyrs) and Turkish Martyrs' Cemetery, Azernews reports, citing the Ministry.

The guests laid flowers and honored their blessed memory.

A solemn welcoming ceremony was held at the General Staff of the Azerbaijan Army, and the Chiefs of the General Staff of both countries passed along the guard of honor. The national anthems of Azerbaijan and Turkiye accompanied by the military orchestra were performed. In accordance with the protocol, Army General Metin Gurak signed the Book of Honor.

Then the First Deputy Minister of Defense  Chief of the General Staff of the Azerbaijan Army, Colonel General Karim Valiyev had a meeting with his Turkish counterpart.

Welcoming the guests, Colonel General K. Valiyev congratulated Army General M.Gurak on his appointment to the post of Chief of the General Staff of the Turkish Armed Forces and expressed his satisfaction with seeing them in Azerbaijan.

Colonel General K. Valiyev expressed his condolences to his Turkish colleague regarding the glorious Turkish Army`s serviceman becoming a Shehid in the region where Pence-Kilit (Claw-Lock) counter-terrorism operations were conducted.

It was especially emphasized that the bilateral and multinational exercises conducted jointly with the fraternal country have a positive effect on raising the professional level of military personnel.

Army General Metin Gurak thanked for the cordial meeting and expressed his satisfaction with his first official visit to Azerbaijan as the Chief of General Staff of the Turkish Armed Forces. Army General M. Gurak noted the importance of the joint events planned to be held in 2024 with the participation of Azerbaijani and Turkish servicemen.

The meeting discussed the results of the work carried out in the direction of further expansion of cooperation in military, military-technical, military-educational, and other fields, as well as as the importance of implementing these activities more intensively. The parties exchanged detailed views on a number of other issues of mutual interest.

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29 August 2023 10:22 (UTC+04:00)

In accordance with the order of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Ilham Aliyev, the return of former IDPs to the reconstructed city of Lachin continues, Azernews reports.

On August 29, a group of former IDPs made up of 13 families or 52 people left Gobu Park 3 residential complex in the Garadagh district, Baku for the Lachin city.

The residents of Lachin City expressed their gratitude to President Ilham Aliyev and First Lady Mehriban Aliyeva for being surrounded by comprehensive state care, to the brave Azerbaijani Army and to the Azerbaijani heroic soldiers and officers that liberated Azerbaijani lands from occupation, and commemorated the martyrs.

The families will settle in the houses where they used to live in Lachin before the Armenian invasion, which was restored or rebuilt based on the instructions of the head of state after liberation.

With this, 247 families, i.e. 956 people, were permanently settled in Lachin City.

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29 August 2023 10:43 (UTC+04:00)

Qabil Ashirov Read more

Azerbaijan Red Crescent Society sends humanitarian aid to the Armenian minority living in Garabagh, Azernews reports, citing Novruz Aslan, the president of the Azerbaijan Red Crescent Society.

"Our humanitarian convoy will leave today. We will go through Aghdam-Khankendi road. For the initial stage, 40 tons of flour products will be sent. This step will be welcomed by Armenians living in Khankendi and the international community. If we can carry out the evaluation process in the future, we can also deliver the supplies they need," he added.

To recall, in the 1990s, Armenia invaded Azerbaijan's territory of Garabagh where Azerbaijanis, Armenians, and other nations lived together. During the invasion, Armenians expelled other nations from Garabagh and kept the territory under occupation for 30 years. Azerbaijan liberated most of its territory, except a few cities. Unlike Armenia, Azerbaijan did not expel the Armenian minority in Garabagh and chose negotiations to convince them to reintegration into Azerbaijani society. However, a separatist clique in Khankendi under the auspice of Yerevan tried to manipulate and to hinder the reintegration process. For some reason, violating Azerbaijan laws, they blocked the Agdam-Khankendi road and demanded that the minority in Garabagh must have a link to the world not through Azerbaijan but Armenia.

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29 August 2023 11:06 (UTC+04:00)

In accordance with the order of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Ilham Aliyev, the return of former IDPs to the reconstructed city of Lachin continues, Azernews reports, citing Trend.

After 30 years of longing, we are returning to our native land. There is no limit to my joy.

Fazilya Aliyeva, who is returning to the town of Lachin.

Aliyeva noted that she was 35 years old when she left the town.

"Now I am 66 years old. I am very happy, we are returning to our native land," Aliyeva said.

The Lachin resident wished good health to President Ilham Aliyev of Azerbaijan.

"May the Almighty God rest the souls of our martyrs, and give good health to the veterans who gave us this joy," she added.

"Today I feel very happy and proud" - Lachin resident

"Today I feel very happy and proud. We are returning to our ancestral lands" says Telman Mirzayev, who is returning to the town of Lachin.

He expressed gratitude to President Ilham Aliyev, as well as all those who took part in the process of returning the territories.

"We are returning to our ancestral lands where we grew up. Long live Azerbaijan!", he added.

It should be noted that today 13 families (52 people) are returning to the town of Lachin.

"To return to her native land 31 years later is a great happiness" - Lachin resident

"It is a great happiness to return to my native land 31 years later".

Basti Hajiyeva, a resident of Lachin.

She noted that she was 28 years old when she left Lachin.

"Now I am almost 60 years old. God bless our President Ilham Aliyev and our veterans. May Almighty God rest the souls of our martyrs! Thanks to them we are returning to our native lands.

As soon as I reach Lachin, I will go to my father's house, and visit the graves of my relatives," Hajiyeva added.

It should be noted that today 13 families (52 people) are returning to Lachin town. Thus, 247 families (956 people) are permanently settled in Lachin.

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Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz
29 August 2023 13:44 (UTC+04:00)

In order to continue its insidious policy, the Armenian side is once again spreading false and deceitful statements by distorting information about the situation in the region, Azernews reports, citing the Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry.

Dissemination of allegations about kidnapping of three Armenian citizens, who were detained at the Lachin border checkpoint on August 28, following a criminal case opened in line with Azerbaijani legislation for incitement of ethnic and racial enmity, as well as insulting the national flag of Azerbaijan, along with questioning the legitimacy by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Armenia of the checkpoint established on the sovereign territory of Azerbaijan, demonstrates that Armenia does not respect its international obligations.

With this, we would like to remind the Armenian side, which claims that Azerbaijan violated the decisions of the International Court of Justice, that there is a courts decision to prevent acts of hatred on ethnic and racial grounds, and instead of preventing these acts, Armenia delivers statements against Azerbaijan, which counters such acts.

Notwithstanding the secession of the criminal prosecution by Azerbaijan against the mentioned three persons based on the principle of humanism, and taking into account their age, and expressed regret sincerely admitting their actions, the fact that the Armenian side is trying to cover up the committed crimes and accusing Azerbaijan of ethnic cleansing indicates the true intention of this country.

It is impossible to find more absurd idea than accusation against Azerbaijan in aggression by Armenia, which occupied the territories of Azerbaijan for nearly 30 years, expelled Azerbaijanis from these territories and from the territory of present-day Armenia, carried out ethnic cleansing, and currently does not fully withdraw its armed forces from the territory of Azerbaijan, contrary to all its obligations, while encouraging separatism.

We once again would like to remind the Armenian side that its policy of aggression promoted in the region will not have any practical results, and it would be more useful for Armenia to support Azerbaijan's initiatives to establish peace.

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Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz
29 August 2023 14:23 (UTC+04:00)

Akram Zeynalli has been recalled from the post of Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Azerbaijan to the Republic of China, Azernews reports.

In this regard, President Ilham Aliyev signed a corresponding decree.

In accordance with another decree of the head of state, Bunyad Huseynov has been appointed the new Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Azerbaijan to China.

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29 August 2023 15:31 (UTC+04:00)

Nasir Mammadov has been appointed Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Azerbaijan to the Republic of Iraq.

In this regard, President Ilham Aliyev signed a corresponding decree.

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29 August 2023 23:05 (UTC+04:00)

The Western Azerbaijan Community has issued a statement on France's immoral policy towards Azerbaijan, Azernews reports.

The statement reads:

The latest statements of the French President and the Minister of Foreign Affairs show once again that official Paris continues its hostile attitude towards Azerbaijan at all levels and on all platforms. It appears that France, which employs police force to suppress protests against racial discrimination and has faced tarnished global reputation due to these events, as well as repeated defeats resulting in removal from several countries on the African continent, seeks solace by taking actions against Azerbaijan, the Western Azerbaijan Community said in a statement.

We would like to remind the French Minister of Foreign Affairs that the term "immorality" accurately characterizes the actions of France. These actions of France include perpetrating genocide in Algeria, exterminating numerous tribes, keeping the skulls of Algerian freedom fighters in a museum in Paris as military trophies, maintaining colonial occupation of territories thousands of kilometers away, conducting nuclear weapons tests in the Pacific that cause harm to people and the environment, and imposing a ban on the Corsican language.

The unfounded accusation by the French Foreign Minister against Azerbaijan, alleging an intention of "ethnic cleansing," is yet another reflection of this immoral policy upheld by France. This is the same France that turned a blind eye to Armenia's wrongdoings, which include brutally expelling all Azerbaijanis from its territory during 1987-1991, occupying Azerbaijani territories from 1991 to 1994, forcibly displacing approximately 800 thousand Azerbaijanis from those areas, obliterating over 900 cities and villages of Azerbaijan, causing the deaths of more than 20 thousand Azerbaijanis, and committing massacres of Azerbaijanis in places like Garadagli, Khojaly, Malibayli, Meshali, and Aghdaban.

It has become evident to the world that France is not interested in establishment of peace between Azerbaijan and Armenia. To that end, France obstructs the reintegration of Armenians who live in the Karabakh region of Azerbaijan.

France must bring an end to its Islamophobic and Azerbaijan-phobic policies, both of which run contrary to principles of morality and international law. Furthermore, France should refrain from approaching issues with religious bias.

The Western Azerbaijani Community will not allow France, whose history is full of genocides, colonialism and injustices, to abuse the noble values such as human rights in order to cover up the nefarious nature of its policy. The Community will continue to tear off Frances mask to expose its policy of double standards, the Community added.

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Taiwan's defense ministry warned Tuesday (August 29) of a possible "sharp increase" in military tensions after reporting a new series of Chinese military activity, which included fighter jets making incursions on Taiwan's air defense identification zone (ADIZ).

According to Reuters, officials in Taipei have complained for three years of increased military pressure from Beijing, most of it in the form of China's air force flying near the island nation.

The increase of activities was also Beijing's response to an announcement Friday (August 25) that outgoing Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-Wen would visit Eswatini, the sole African nation recognizing Taiwan diplomatically over China.

China's activity could also be in response to the US approving the sale of more advanced sensor equipment for fighter jets to Taiwan.

New Chinese Bogeys Spotted

The ministry said it spotted 12 Chinese military aircraft in its ADIZ, seven of which crossed the median line - six J-10 fighters and a drone.

"The continued military harassment by the Communist military in the region may lead to a sharp increase in tensions and worsen regional security," the ministry said.

Officials have also called on Beijing to "immediately stop such unilateral acts," as maintaining the peaceful and stable status quo in the Taiwan Strait would be critical to the security and prosperity of the Indo-Pacific region, which all parties, including Beijing, have a common responsibility to uphold.

Read Also: Pentagon Unveils New Anti-China Military Plan

Dealing With the Enemy

While the latest Chinese mission was happening, Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an, who is affiliated to Taiwanese opposition party Kuomintang, arrived in Shanghai for annual city-to-city talks.

His office said the city government has reiterated time and again that "the more difficult the environment is, the more the two sides should communicate.

"What the people of Taiwan want is peace and prosperity." Chang's office added. "This is the voice of the people and the firm position of the city government."

Chiang also said prior to his flight to Shanghai that the city forum was a good way to keep communication channels open and send a message of "peaceful values."

While the party was historically a bitter enemy of the Chinese Communist Party, it has since favored close relations with Beijing.

Meanwhile, Taipei city councilors affiliated to Taiwan's governing Democratic People's Party issued a joint statement, saying Chiang should "speak for the Taiwanese people" and demand an end to China's military activities.

Related Article: Did a Chinese Nuke-Powered Sub Crash Near Taiwan Strait? Taiwanese Officials Dismiss Reports

@ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
29 August 2023 09:00 (UTC+04:00)

Turkiyes National Intelligence Organization (MIT) neutralized a senior PKK terrorist in northern Iraq, across the Turkish border, security sources said Sunday, Azernews reports, citing Anadolu Agency.

Kadri Encu, codenamed Dogan, was neutralized in Iraqs Gara region, said the sources, who spoke on condition of anonymity due to restrictions on speaking to the media.

Encu, who was providing path for terrorist groups in northern Iraqs Gara, Zap, Metina and Haftanin regions, to carry out attacks against the region of Turkiyes anti-terror Operation Claw, it added.

According to the sources, Encu was the so-called Iraq-Syria officer of the terrorist PKK, joined the groups rural ranks in 2006, and was trained in the Zap region.

He acted as the bodyguard of Duran Kalkan, codenamed Abbas, and was a member of the PKKs so-called executive council in 2015-2017. He went to Gara as Iraq-Syria courier officer in January 2018, the sources added.

Apart from his so-called courier duties, the sources said, Encu was also involved in the activities of the terror groups foreign relations unit and organized the transfers of PKK terrorists and weapons within Iraq and between Iraq and Syria.

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

PKK terrorists often hide out across the border, in northern Iraq, to plot attacks.

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 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 the EU  has been responsible for the deaths of nearly 40,000 people, including women, children, and infants.

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29 August 2023 19:35 (UTC+04:00)

The documents are aimed at promoting and protecting mutual investments, as well as preventing tax evasion, Azernews reports, citing Kun.uz news agency.

The President signed two decisions "On the approval of the international agreement", the Ministry of Justice reports.

The documents confirmed the following agreements between the governments of Uzbekistan and Qatar signed on June 6 in Samarkand:

- on mutual promotion and protection of investments;

- on elimination of double taxation in relation to income tax and prevention of tax evasion.

The Ministry of Investments, Industry and Foreign Trade, as well as the Tax Committee have been designated as the authorized bodies responsible for the implementation of international agreements.

After the entry into force of these international agreements, the Cabinet of Ministers and heads of relevant ministries and departments were entrusted with the task of monitoring the implementation of the clauses of the documents.

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29 August 2023 20:05 (UTC+04:00)

Belgium centre forward Romelu Lukaku is set to join AS Roma on loan from Chelsea after spending much of the last two seasons on loan to Inter MIlan, Giallorossi sources said Tuesday, Azernews reports, citing ANSA.

The strapping 30-year-old, who has been intensely sought by Roma boss Jose Mourinho, is expected to arrive in the Italian capital Tuesday on a private flight that will be piloted directly by Roma president Dan Friedkin.

The deal has been closed with the formula of a loan for 6 million plus bonuses, while the Giallorossi will pay a 7.5 million fee.

Antwerp born 6ft 3 in Lukaku has also played for Anderlecht, West Brom, Everton and Man Utd.

He has scored 75 international goals in 108 appearances for his country, a very high strike rate.

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29 August 2023 21:40 (UTC+04:00)

Turkish border security forces arrested six people when they attempted to cross into Turkiye from Syria and Iran illegally, authorities said on Tuesday, Azernews reports, citing Anadolu Agency.

Our Border Eagles captured six people who were attempting to enter our country from Syria and Iran illegally, the National Defense Ministry said on X, formerly known as Twitter.

Among those arrested were three people who were affiliated with the PKK/KCK terror group, it added.

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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You can reach Ishani Desai at 661-395-7417. You can also follow her at @_ishanidesai on Twitter.
Miami mayor and presidential candidate Francis Suarez announced Tuesday (August 29) that he was withdrawing from the Republican presidential nomination, ending a two-month campaign.

The decision was made after he failed to fully meet the requirements set by the Republican National Committee in order to make the first presidential debate in Milwaukee last week.

In a statement, the mayor said his commitment to "making a better nation for every American" would remain.

Suarez earlier told CNN he would abandon the race to the White House if he did not qualify to make it to the stage for the debate phase.

"I look forward to keeping in touch with the other Republican presidential candidates and doing what I can to make sure our party puts forward a strong nominee who can inspire and unify the country, renew Americans' trust in our institutions and in each other, and win," he said in a Tuesday statement.

Read Also: Hurricane Idalia Making Landfall in Florida; Governor Ron DeSantis Declares Statewide Emergency

Who is Francis Suarez?

CNN reported Suarez was the son of Cuban immigrants and, prior to yielding his candidacy, he was the sole major Hispanic candidate in the Republican Party.

He sought support from the public while competing with more famous fellow Floridians such as former US President Donald Trump and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis in the presidential race.

"I will continue to amplify the voices of the Hispanic community - the fastest-growing voting group in our country," Suarez added. "The Left has taken Hispanics for granted for far too long, and it is no surprise that so many are finding a home in America's conservative movement."

Related Article: Biden Administration Targets High-Priced Prescription Drugs for Medicare Price Negotiations

@ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
X Censorship Squad Are Anything but Free-Speech Minded

While Musk has called himself a "free speech absolutist" and promised X would be a free speech platform, the people hes hired are not freedom-loving free speech advocates. Quite the contrary.

X CEO Linda Yaccarino is the chairman of the World Economic Forums Taskforce on Future of Work. Shes also part of the WEFs Media, Entertainment and Culture Industry Governors Steering Committee.

Yaccarino has publicly asserted that she has autonomy from Musk.10 A more important question is, does she have autonomy from the WEF, or is she using X to further the WEFs agenda?

Either way, Yaccarino has stated that "lawful but awful" posts will be "deamplified," read, shadow banned and demonetized.11 And, like Musk, she has stressed that the company policy is one of "freedom of speech, not reach" to protect "brand safety" for advertisers. And, indeed, under Yaccarinos watch, big advertisers are once again returning to the platform.

X Is Gearing Up for Election Censorship

X is also actively recruiting applicants for various censorship positions,12 including an "Elections Team Lead," which flies in the face of Musks statement that "Free speech is essential for a functioning democracy."13

X censorship recruiter Aaron Rodericks is also working against Musks stated vision by promoting Kate Starbird,14 a former Twitter employee and chief architect of the 2020 election censorship campaign in which 100% of the top "repeat misinformation spreaders" were Conservatives.15

As noted in Michael Shellenbergers testimony before the House Select Committee on the Weaponization of the Federal Government in March 2023:16

"Kate Starbird, who runs the University of Washington disinformation lab, has for years been funded primarily by U.S. government agencies to do social media narrative analytics of political groups, or insurgency movements, of interest or concern to U.S. military intelligence or diplomatic equities.

Starbird acknowledged that the censorship focus of CISA and EIP [Election Integrity Partnership] moved from foreign, inauthentic social media users to domestic, authentic social media users between 2016 to 2020."

Starbird is also one of the 23 members of the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agencys (CISA) Cybersecurity Advisory Committee, launched in December 1, 2021.17

European Union Tightens Censorship Nose

In related news, X has also rolled out a new feature that allows users to report posts that violate the European Unions new law (the Digital Services Act or DSA) against expression of political dissent, pro-Russian propaganda and other "fake news."18 The new EU law took effect August 25, 2023.19

The new EU Digital Services Act will force all major online platforms to censor medical information and election information.

Other online platforms required to meet DSA requirements for content moderation or risk heavy fines include Facebook, TikTok, YouTube, Instagram, LinkedIn, Pinterest, Snapchat, Amazon, Booking, AliExpress, Google Shopping, Zalando, Apple, Googles app stores, Google Maps, Wikipedia, Google Search and Bing.20 As reported by Politico:21

"These large platforms will have to stop displaying ads to users based on sensitive data like religion and political opinions. AI-generated content like manipulated videos and photos, known as deepfakes, will have to be labeled.

Companies will also have to conduct yearly assessments of the risks their platforms pose on a range of issues like public health, kids safety and freedom of expression. They will be required to lay out their measures for how they are tackling such risks.

These 19 very large online platforms and search engines will have to redesign completely their systems to ensure a high level of privacy, security and safety of minors with age verification and parental control tools, said [EU's Internal Market Commissioner Thierry] Breton.

External firms will audit their plans. The enforcement team in the Commission will access their data and algorithms to check whether they are promoting a range of harmful content  for example, content endangering public health or during elections. Fines can go up to 6 percent of their global annual turnover and very serious cases of infringement could result in platforms facing temporary bans."

The key words there are "content endangering public health" and "elections." That tells you the EU will force all of these platforms to censor medical information and election information.

X Implementing New Identification Rules

X is also pushing us deeper into surveillance state tyranny by requiring XBlue subscribers to submit a selfie and a government-issued ID to verify their identity.22 X will store this personal information for 30 days and share it with an Israeli identification verification company called AU10TIX.

For now, non-blue users are not required to verify their identities, but I suspect its only a matter of time. Eventually, youll have to have a digital identity to use the internet at all, and every move you make online will be tracked as part of your social credit score. X is simply paving the way.

CCDH Feigns Innocence

In 2021, it became apparent that the U.S. government was basing many of its censorship decisions on information from an obscure U.K.-based group called the Center for Countering Digital Hate (CCDH). Its "Disinformation Dozen" report,23 published March 24, 2021, has without question been one of the most widely cited "justifications" for censorship over these past two years.

The problem is that this report was itself an example of gross misinformation. The CCDH claimed 12 individuals were responsible for 73% of vaccine misinformation on social media, including Facebook, yet an investigation by Facebook revealed the so-called "disinformation dozen" were responsible for just 0.05% of all views of vaccine-related content on the platform.24

Yet, even after Facebook set the record straight, the federal government continued to cite the CCDH report as the reason for why they wanted the people listed in it censored by Big Tech.

Sen. Elizabeth Warren demanded that Amazon ban my book, "The Truth About COVID," based on the CCDHs false statements about me, and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) even relied on it to identify "domestic threat actors,"25 meaning domestic terrorists.

Put simply, the DHS has tagged me as a domestic terrorist based on the fabrications of a shadowy intelligence-connected group that in a rational society would have no credibility whatsoever.

This is the intelligence communitys version of Nancy Pelosis "wrap-up smear" tactic,26 which is when a politician feeds false information to the media and then uses those media reports to support their false claims.

August 3, 2023, House Judiciary Chairman Jim Jordan, R-Ohio, launched an investigation into the CCDHs potential role in the Biden administrations censorship regime.

The group was ordered to hand over records to the Judiciary Committee detailing its interactions with the U.S. government and the executive branch by August 17.27 As reported by The Washington Post that day:28

"On Thursday [August 17], the CCDH responded with a full-throated defense of its research and communications with government officials, dismissing Jordans allegations as confusion about the organization in a letter.

Related documents, which were exclusively viewed by The Washington Post, show that the organization has worked with government officials from both parties ...

Jordan also has released internal communications from Meta, which he has dubbed the Facebook Files, citing the CCDHs research. The emails ... show that the White House discussed the CCDHs coronavirus research with Facebook executives as it pressured the company to take a tougher line against vaccine falsehoods.

Nadgey Louis-Charles, a House Judiciary spokesperson, recently told The Post that these emails expose the extent to which the Biden White House used the work of the CCDH to try to censor speech."

Free Speech Without Reach Is Not Freedom

The CCDHs fabrications have been used by a long list of government actors and representatives, including members of Congress, state attorneys general and even President Biden himself, all of whom publicly called for retaliatory actions to be taken against us.

As a result, weve been censored on social media, delisted by Google Search, and demonetized on YouTube. Weve been deplatformed and cut off from online payment processors, our websites have been cyberattacked and, in several cases, taken down completely  and weve been debanked, all for the "crime" of sharing Constitutionally-protected views and published science.

At the end of the day, the so-called "problem" of misinformation and disinformation is pure nonsense. In a free society, people debate issues and bring varying viewpoints to the table. "Misinformation" is a completely fabricated problem, made up by the very people who seek to control the public discourse for their own aims.

The technocratic cabal driving this global censorship movement know they must silence dissenting viewpoints because what they intend to impose on us is so heinous, if people understand what theyre doing, theyll never be able to achieve their goals.

So, its not just "democracy" that hangs in the balance. Basic freedoms, human rights and life as we know it will be taken from us, and the only way to stop it is by waking people up to reality through information sharing. The very survival of humanity now depends on our ability to maintain free speech, which is why we must keep pushing back against all forms of censorship.
As Republican voters scratch their heads over why some of the major RINOs in the General Assembly are pushing non-Republican ideas like promoting casinos and marijuana, the answer is that too many RINOs are more interested in special interest cash than they are in what the voters back home want and don't want.

A group that tracks the legislature has just released a list of the top recipients of special interest money from casino and marijuana interests, many of those contributors from out of state, and many who never gave to NC legislators before. One of those at the top of the list of recipients of casino and marijuana money is our own RINO state senator Jim Perry, who is no stranger to corrupt pay-to-play politics.

RINO Perry took $25,100 from casino and marijuana interests, the third highest in the legislature. That is what Beaufort, Craven and Lenoir counties have representing us.

It was not just RINOs who took these corrupt payments. The Democrat leader in the NC House also got a wad from them.

https://dailyhaymaker.com/pot-pay-off-welcome-to-raleighs-republican-revolution/

This is not RINO Jim Perry's first rodeo in cashing in with special interest money to betray the interests of his constituents. Earlier this session, Perry took a huge payday from Big Medicine special interests to back the Obamacare Medicaid expansion, in spite of the Republican executive committee for the local congressional district passing a unanimous resolution asking him to vote against it. With Perry, money talks and the interests and positions of his constituents get ignored.

The same was true with the North Carolina Green New Deal, HB951, which will greatly increase electric bills for citizens but fits the ESG agenda of "woke" utility monopoly Duke Energy. Perry got a big payday from woke Duke Energy and from the wind and solar grifters, and was very active in pushing their agenda against the interests of electric consumers.

Jim Perry is little more than a prostitute for the special interests. He will keep turning tricks for them as long as the money keeps flowing.
The Republican lawsuit against Google is now null and void.

A federal judge has recently dismissed a Republican lawsuit against Google for allegedly having a political bias over its Gmail spam filters over lack of evidence.

The Republican National Committee (RNC) filed the lawsuit in question sometime in 2022, but it is only now that the court has decided against it.

Not In Bad Faith

US District Court Judge Daniel Calabretta dismissed the RNC's lawsuit against Google's alleged political bias due to it not "sufficiently" pleading that the search giant acted in bad faith, per Engadget. They added that the search giant is protected by Section 230 of US law, which states that internet service providers (ISP) have "safe harbors" to operate as intermediaries of content without fear of being liable for that content. However, this statement is true only if the ISP takes reasonable steps to delete or prevent access to that content, per the Electronic Frontier Foundation.

The RNC's lawsuit stated that Google intentionally marked "millions" of the Committee's emails as spam because of its political bias, as evidenced by the findings of an academic study it cited supporting the idea, per The Washington Post. As such, its lawsuit aims to get reimbursement for the donations it lost because of its political bias.

However, Judge Calbretta said that the RNC failed to "sufficiently [plead] that Google acted in bad faith," and that the lawsuit is a "close case." Google explained that the emails its Gmail service flagged as spam was likely due to users flagging them as such, among other reasons. These include the domain authentication issues and frequent mailouts the RNC cited as other potential issues.

Read More: WhatsApp Finally Lets Users Send HD Videos

Judge Calabretta and the court also decided that RNC email could be deemed "objectionable" based on the CAN-SPAM Act. However, the RNC is still welcome to amend its lawsuit to better establish Google's lack of good faith.

A Study in Political Bias By Email Service Providers

The study, "A Peek into the Political Biases in Email Spam Filtering Algorithms During US Election 2020," concluded that Gmail leaned towards the left (Democrats), while Microsoft Outlook and Yahoo leaned towards the right (Republicans).

Additionally, the study found that Gmail marked 59.3% more emails from the right candidates as spam compared to the left candidates. Meanwhile, Microsoft Outlook and Yahoo marked 2.0.4% and 14.2% more emails from left-leaning candidates as spam compared to the right-leaning candidates, respectively.

While the study's conclusion is clear, one of its authors, Muhammad Shahzad, said to The Washington Post in 2022 that the RNC cherry-picked the study's findings to suit their lawsuit against Google. According to the author, the study demonstrates that a bias is present under certain circumstances across services, but it doesn't mean that it shows that someone is deliberately trying to turn the elections.

"Our study does not make any such conclusion," Shahzad said about the information the RNC cited in its lawsuit against Google. He also said that the political bias of spam filters in their "default behavior" disappeared when they simulated having users put in their preferences by marking some messages as spam and others as not.

When Shahzad and his co-writers did so, they saw that the biases in Gmail almost disappeared, while the political bias in Microsoft Outlook and Yahoo didn't.

Related Article: Google Investigates Gmail Outlook Syncing Issues, Tries To Fix Bug
North Carolina followed the EU's Green Deal when the RINOs and Democrats pushed through North Carolina's Green New Deal, HB951. even going beyond the EU. Germany was in the lead on European "green energy" policy and the impact is being felt there first. North Carolina is likely to share the experiences from this policy with Germany.

Now, Germany main opposition party, which is also the leading party in the polls, the Christian Democrats (CDU), are warning that Germany's Green energy policies are pushing it into a recession and demanding that the government put the brakes on many of its programs. Residential electric rates are the highest in the world due to use of expensive wind and solar power. German business leaders are warning of severe economic problems, even de-indusrization from the green energy policies. Germany's second most popular political party according to the polls, the populist / nationalist Alternative fur Deutschland (AfD), which is also the fastest rising party, have long been opposed to the green energy Energiewende. Polls show a new election would give the CDU and AfD a comforable majority between them.

Meanwhile, Princess Gloria von Thurn und Taxis is leading a growing citizens movement against expensive green energy.

https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/green-policies-pushing-germany-into-recession-opposition-warns-dv58djpgz

https://rmx.news/germany/germany-suffering-due-to-obsession-with-green-energy-and-bureaucracy-industry-federation-president-claims/

Down under, a major Australian newspaper, The Australian, has pointed to California as showing that a green energy crusade brings high electric prices and blackouts. That article has been republished at "Stop These Things":

https://stopthesethings.com/2023/08/27/following-californias-renewable-energy-lead-guarantees-rocketing-power-prices-blackouts/

In the UK, the Net Zero bureaucracy is telling people not to heat their homes in the evenings in winter.

https://www.telegraph.co.uk/politics/2023/08/26/new-net-zero-advice-turn-heating-up-only-during-the-day/
Anchor Health Properties has completed a 53,000-square-foot medical office building in Hudson, Ohio, that was originally announced in early 2022, according to an Aug. 28 report from Commercial Property Executive.

The property was constructed in partnership with Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio-based Western Reserve Hospital. The new three-story building is valued at $20.2 million, according to the report.

The building will be anchored by Western Reserve Hospital and the independent physician network Unity Health Network, and it will provide services including endocrinology, gastroenterology, medical weight loss, orthopedics, lab and imaging, rheumatology, ophthalmology, primary care, infusion and podiatry.

Anchor Health Properties has expanded its portfolio throughout the first half of the year, also acquiring a 38,327-square-foot medical office building in Grove City, Ohio, and a 34,681-square-foot building in Sebastian, Fla.

In July, the real estate company purchased the 91,940-square-foot Forsyth Physicians Center in Atlanta.






Northern Regional Hospital is opening a new, 25,000-square-foot medical office building in Mount Airy, N.C., that will house its family medicine, gastroenterology, general surgery and urology practices, according to an Aug. 28 report from The Pilot.

The new building will accommodate 18 physicians, physician assistants and nurse practitioners and 50 clinical and support staff.

Each of the four specialties will have its own dedicated space within the building. The building will open in phases, with Northern Family Medicine opening Sept. 11, Northern Gastroenterology and Northern General Surgery opening Sept. 18, and Northern Urology opening Oct. 9.
Franklin, Tenn.-based Community Health Systems plans to expand virtual sitting to 29 hospitals as the program has been successful in preventing patient falls.

The 78-hospital system started piloting the sitting platform from telehealth company AvaSure in 2021 at two locations. The program later expanded to 15 CHS hospitals in Arkansas, Indiana and Tennessee, and the health system plans to roll it out at another 12 facilities by the end of 2023. No patients in the program reported any falls with injuries in 2022.

"We really are able to clearly create some efficiencies and redeploy caregivers back to the bedside," Lynn Simon, MD, president of healthcare innovation and chief medical officer of Community Health Systems, told Becker's.

Remote "sitters" operate out of a CHS hospital in Tennessee, each monitoring 12 to 16 high-risk patients at a time for signs they might be getting up or otherwise be in danger of a fall. The cameras are rolled into the patient rooms.

"They have eyes on the patients at all times," Dr. Simon said of the sitters. "There's also two-way audio, so the person watching can audio into the room and talk and have a conversation with the patient, ask them if they're uncomfortable, remind them to stay in bed. That conversation seems to be the difference. It's more than just alerting the nurse  that does happen when the patient appears to be trying to get out of bed  but it's really about the back-and-forth communication with the patient that helps keep them safe and keeps them from falling."

Since implementing the program, the health system has experienced up to a 76 percent drop in falls at some hospitals, Dr. Simon said.

Community Health Systems' big bet on virtual sitting comes at a time when many health systems are going all in on virtual nursing. CHS has had some "small" virtual nursing pilots, helping with things like patient admission and discharge, but is still in the "exploration stages" for that model, Dr. Simon said.

"The biggest value that we're seeing that we've been able to scale is the virtual sitting, but we do intend to continue to iterate with our other virtual nursing opportunities," she said.
Grand Forks, N.D.-based Altru Health System named Derek Goebel as the health system's new CFO.

Mr. Goebel had been serving as interim CFO since January, according to an Aug. 29 Altru news release shared with Becker's.

"Derek has been instrumental in Altru's financial success amidst many headwinds in our industry," Altru CEO Todd Forkel said in the news release. "I am confident he has the skills and expertise to continue this work as CFO."

Mr. Goebel has served with Altru for 13 years.
Several hospitals have recently appointed former CFOs to CEO roles. Here are the work histories of three recent CFO-to-CEO hires:

1. Ashley Hindman was named CEO of Harris Regional Hospital in Sylva, N.C., and Swain Community Hospital in Bryson City, N.C., after joining the Brentwood, Tenn.-based Duke LifePoint Healthcare hospitals as CFO in 2019.

Prior to joining those hospitals, Mr. Hindman spent nearly nine years in financial roles at hospitals owned by Franklin, Tenn.-based Community Health Systems, according to his LinkedIn page. His first role at CHS was controller of Spartanburg, S.C.-based Mary Black Health System in 2011. He became CFO of Hattiesburg, Miss.-based Wesley Medical Center in 2013 before being named CFO of Chester (S.C.) Regional Medical Center in 2014. In 2017, he was named CFO of Merit Health Madison in Canton, Miss.

Before that, Mr. Hindman spent four years at Greenville (S.C.) Hospital System, first as a reimbursement analyst in 2006 and then as manager of revenue cycle integrity and training in 2007.

2. Troy Christensen was named CEO of Driggs, Idaho-based Teton Valley Health after serving as CFO of neighboring Madison Memorial Hospital in Rexburg, Idaho, for the past decade. Prior to joining Madison Memorial, he served as CFO of Tooele, Utah-based Mountain West Medical Center from 2011 to 2013, according to his LinkedIn page. Before that, he was assistant CFO at Roswell-based Eastern New Mexico State Medical Center. He also served as controller and director of medical records at Caldwell, Idaho-based West Valley Medical Center from 2006 to 2008.

Outside of healthcare, Mr. Christensen served as a senior accountant at Albertsons from 2005 to 2006 and a facilities accountant at Micron Technology from 2000 to 2005.

3. Judi Fox was named CEO of Rutland (Vt.) Regional Medical Center after serving in the role on an interim basis since November. Ms. Fox has served the hospital for 33 years, according to the newspaper, beginning her career there with collections positions when she was still in college. Most recently, she served as treasurer and CFO since 2016. Her previous roles at the hospital have included controller from 2000 to 2015, senior director of finance from 2015 to 2016.
The case of Lucy Letby, a neonatal nurse at Countess of Chester Hospital in Northern England who is now a convicted serial killer, has many wondering how to prevent and catch bad actors, an Aug. 29 editorial from the Chicago Tribune said.

On Aug. 18, the 33-year-old Ms. Letby was convicted of murdering seven babies and attempting to murder six others between June 2015 and June 2016. She has become known as the worst serial killer of children in British history. She was sentenced to life imprisonment without the possibility of parole.

Ms. Letby's managers are being blamed for ignoring staff complaints about her behavior and the number of deaths in infants under her watch. The concerns were dismissed and some colleagues were pressured to apologize to Ms. Letby, an editorial from The BMJ said.

Here are six things hospitals can learn from this case to prevent similar situations:
A judge reinstated a Buffalo, N.Y.-based Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center nurse who was fired for refusing to be vaccinated for COVID-19, The Buffalo News reported Aug. 28.

The judge overturned an arbitrator's January decision, which said Wendy Cooper was fired with just cause. The judge referred to the decision as "irrational, violative of public policy and contrary to the interests of justice."

"Ms. Cooper is an unfortunate victim in the wake of excesses exhibited by governors, administrators, legislatures, and yes, even the judiciary," state Supreme Court Justice Emilio Colaiacovo wrote in his decision. "All too frequently did critical thinking and the exercise of personal liberties expire at the altar of false righteousness, fear and authority."

He directed Roswell Park to negotiate with Ms. Cooper over her retroactive pay and benefits.

The center declined the news outlet's request for comment but confirmed it will appeal the decision. It reached out to the union healthcare employees who were suspended for not getting vaccinated and invited them back without requiring vaccination, as well as encouraged fired employees to apply for open positions, according to court papers.

About 3.5 percent of the state's healthcare workforce lost their jobs, resigned, retired or were furloughed due to being unvaccinated by April 2022, according to the report. Ms. Cooper was suspended and fired in late 2021. Roswell Park said it had no other choice than to do so given the state health department's vaccine mandate for healthcare workers.

The arbitration was over whether Roswell Park had just cause to fire Ms. Cooper.

Roswell Park's attorney, Michael Hickey, told Judge Colaiacovo that at the time, the center had just cause to fire Ms. Cooper. If it had allowed her to work unvaccinated, the cancer center would have been in violation of a state regulation.

The judge ruled that the arbitrator did not take into account a new state ruling that came out at the time of arbitration, which should have influenced the decision.
From a Michigan physician paying $6.5 million to settle allegations he billed for unnecessary services, to a Georgia laboratory owner being sentenced to prison for his role in a $463 million scheme, here are 10 healthcare billing fraud cases Becker's reported since Aug. 15:

1. A physician from Clarksville, Tenn., was sentenced to seven years in prison after being convicted of more than a dozen healthcare fraud charges.

2. A Michigan pain management specialist will pay $6.5 million to settle allegations he billed Medicare and Medicaid for medically unnecessary services.

3. Orlando, Fla., resident Patrick Fitchner pleaded guilty in New Jersey federal court to his role in a $3.6 million durable medical equipment kickback scheme.

4. The former president of pharmacy company Apogee Bio-Pharm pleaded guilty to his role in a scheme to charge Medicare and Tricare for expensive prescriptions obtained through kickbacks.

5. A Georgia laboratory owner was sentenced to 27 years in prison for his role in a scheme that submitted more than $463 million in fraudulent claims to Medicare.

6. The program administrator for behavioral health company Holy Health Care Services was convicted of charges related to a Medicaid billing fraud scheme.

7. A Louisiana medical equipment company owner pleaded guilty to billing over $11 million in false claims to Medicare and Medicaid for medically unnecessary devices.

8. A Florida resident was sentenced to five years in prison for his role in an $11 million scheme to defraud Medicare by supplying fraudulent orders for durable medical equipment.

9. Greenwood Village, Colo.-based Air Methods Corp. will pay $1.05 million to the federal government to settle allegations it did not return overpayments it received from Medicare, Tricare and Kentucky Medicaid.

10. A Pittsburgh man who owned two area laboratories was sentenced to 18 months in prison, ordered to forfeit $9 million and pay more than $77 million for his role in three kickback schemes.
As supply chain pressures persist, all physician specialties, including orthopedics, may need to reevaluate their supply procurement strategies.

Here is what six orthopedic surgeons have told Becker's about their supply chain worries:

"Continued focus on providing value by improving quality, while simultaneously controlling the costs of care has been a 'trend' for the last several years that will be with us indefinitely. Increasing consumer and employer healthcare costs, declining reimbursement to providers, and hospital staff and supply chain shortages should prompt all of us to look at how we can provide safer, higher quality and more efficient care at the most cost effective site possible. This is a never ending process that ideally should result in elimination of waste and unnecessary care, improved quality and patient outcomes and improved healthcare value for our patients."  Matthew Kraay, MD, professor of orthopedic surgery and chair in orthopedic surgery at Case Western Reserve University (Cleveland).

"Prior to the COVID-19 epidemic, value-based care was the main focus when discussing the future management of the orthopedic patient. In 2023, the economics of medicine has drastically changed. Hospitals functioning at a deficit, supply chain struggles and the increasing costs of care are plaguing our system. These challenges have forced value-based care to become sidelined, and constricted the available healthcare dollar for the physician. It will be necessary to place quality and cost at the forefront again. Today, surgeons need to focus on improving health-related quality of life measures, which were tracked prior to the epidemic. New baselines for the cost-per-quality-adjusted life year may need to be determined. These current economic plagues will demand a value-based care approach in the future. Today, surgeons would benefit by creating low-cost, high-quality care algorithms to position themselves for a successful future."  Daniel Mulconrey, MD, orthopedic surgeon at Midwest Orthopaedic Center (Peoria, Ill.).

"Spine surgery ranks as one of the costliest interventions in our healthcare economy. I believe that value-based healthcare models that tie reimbursement to outcomes will become more prevalent in the future. Suppliers that recommend more costly products or services such as artificial intelligence, endoscopic surgery, computer-assisted surgery/robotic surgery or custom implants will need to truly demonstrate value and assume some of the risks associated with an undesirable outcome. I believe that this healthcare model will lead to a healthier society while reducing overall healthcare spending."  Ernest Braxton, MD, chief of neurosurgery at Vail-Summit Orthopaedics & Neurosurgery and team physician for the U.S. Ski Team (Frisco, Colo.).

"Independent ASCs, the panacea for MDs to control all aspects of their surgery, from design of the facility, scheduling, day-to-day operations, billing and supplementing their income  the true pride of ownership, and independence from hospital bureaucracy that motivated most MDs  is fast slipping away as the downward pressure on reimbursements in the face of rising cost, supply chain issues, staff shortages, etc., force MDs to seek partnerships with private equity and health systems that have access to higher reimbursements at hospital outpatient department rates and in general have the heft to negotiate better reimbursement from insurers. The days of independent ASCs are numbered, and that is tragic as independent ASCs are the right answer to the current healthcare woes on so many levels."  Jayesh Dayal, MD, pain management specialist at MedStar Montgomery Medical Center (Rockville, Md.).

"I am most nervous about the continued pressure on our margins as supply and labor costs continue to rise rapidly."  Vishal Mehta, MD, president and managing partner of Fox Valley Orthopedics (Geneva, Ill.).

"On a day to day basis, labor and supply chain issues are at the forefront of making us nervous. Since healthcare can be unpredictable, both are kind of in the back of the mind as to whether we will have what we need when we need it."  Mihir Patel, MD, treasurer and partner of OrthoIndy/OrthoIndy Hospital (Indianapolis).

"Current struggles with supply chain demand create havoc on our ability to provide care. Maintaining adequate staff and developing a positive culture in the workplace is challenging during these difficult times in healthcare."  Dr. Mulconrey.
OpenAI introduced its AI chatbot's business tier called ChatGPT Enterprise, after almost one year in development.

Read Also: OpenAI's Web Crawler Has Been Blocked by The New York Times

ChatGPT Enterprise Inclusion

During its development, ChatGPT Enterprise was able to help over 20 companies from different organization sizes and industries, as reported by CNBC. Companies such as Block, Canva, Carlyle, The Estee Lauder, PwC, and Zapier, were able to participate on the beta testing.

The tool gives the users an access the GPT-4 without any limitation, a performance that is twice faster than the earlier versions, and API credits. In addition, ChatGPT Enterprise also allows an unlimited access to advanced data analysis which will enable both technical and non-technical teams to analyze the data within seconds, regardless of the type of information.

"It's become a true enabler of productivity, with the dependable security and data privacy controls we need," head of AI Products at Canva, Danny Wu, shared.

Demand for ChatGPT in Organizations

According to OpenAI, around 80 percent of the Fortune 500 companies have adopted using ChatGPT since its launch. ChatGPT is only one among the chatbot providers in the world such as Microsoft, Google, and Anthropic.

On the other hand, OpenAI disclosed the upcoming features for ChatGPT Enterprise that will be available once they are ready to release. For instance, companies will be able to customize their ChatGPT's knowledge by connecting it to other apps that are already in use by the company.

In addition, OpenAI aims to offer ChatGPT Enterprise to all kinds of team sizes, even small businesses. Most importantly, more power tools such as improved Advanced Data Analysis and role-specific tools will be added on the succeeding updates.

Related Article: OpenAI Uses GPT-4 For Content Moderation, Promotes Flexibility
Shore Orthopaedic University Associates in Somers Point, N.J. added spine surgeon Gregory Callanan, DO., according to an Aug. 29 announcement in the Cape May County Herald.

Dr. Callanan joins the practice from a fellowship at the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia. He specializes in adult degenerative spinal conditions.

He earned his medical degree at Rowan University School of Osteopathic Medicine in Stratford, N.J. and completed his residency at Rowan University-Inspira Health Network.
In the past 25 years, our food offer has become outstanding.

One thing that always evokes a sense of gratitude is when visitors to Northern Ireland appreciate our excellent food and drink. In my view, we are head and shoulders above many other regions in terms of our food taste, quality, food miles and even social awareness.

No wonder we were named Worlds Best Food Region at the World Travel Awards for 2018/19.

The Northern Ireland Investment Summit is taking place on September 12 and 13, hosted by the Department for Business and Trade in partnership with the Northern Ireland Office and Invest NI. It is an opportunity for Northern Ireland to show its food credentials to over 100 key international influencers and potential investors.

I recall several years ago research reflecting the frustration of European conference organisers at the lack of differentiation in conference hospitality. Their exasperation was that you could close your eyes and food would taste the same in any city in Europe. But not so in Belfast and other cities across Northern Ireland.

One of the positive benefits provided by the Investment Summit is the opportunity to show off our local larder. Because of our landscape and dependable rain, we have always been world class at growing pasture, hence we are an outstanding region for grass-fed beef, lamb and dairy.

And as knowledge of micro and macronutrients has grown, the benefits of natural feeding systems and short food miles are better understood.

In the past 25 years, our food offer has become outstanding. Farmhouse cheeses, ice creams, butters, yoghurts, speciality meats, ciders, oils, vinegars and of course bakery products are just some products to have won international awards.

In Northern Ireland we are excellent at good, honest food, no frills, no fuss, just quality that is head and shoulders above other regions.

A vibrant drinks sector has also emerged  ciders, beers, gins and whiskey galore.

Again, these are nationally and internationally award-winning products and its great to see Northern Ireland restored to its rightful place as a serious whiskey producing region.

So, what kind of food memories will the delegation coming to the conference take away with them?

The chefs have created a wonderful fusion of products that we all have in the fridge at home, from Dromona Butter and Cheese to Wilsons Country potatoes.

Read more Co Down restaurant chuffed to win Ulster Fry World Championship

Local Carnbrooke and McAtamneys beef, Armagh Rocvale chicken and local pork feature highly on the menu.

A number of artisan products such as Irish Black Butter, Dart Mountain Cheese, Just Live a Little granola, Clements eggs and Ewings Glenarm smoked salmon are included.

Cauliflower and Broccoli from Conway farm also feature.

As for desserts, as well as some of our traditional baking like shortbread and barmbrack, the Armagh Bramley apple features with Draynes ice cream and buttermilk sorbet.

And lets not forget about our alcohol producers, the chefs have cleverly used local drinks such as Long Meadow Cider, Belfast Black, Bushmills and local ginger ale to add flavour to many of their creative dishes.

So, my hopes are that the menu, with outstanding local tastes and flavours, and with short food miles, creates a memorable backdrop for the summit, promotes local produce, inspires international business deals and leaves the delegates with a flavour of Northern Ireland to tempt them back soon.

Michele Shirlow MBE is the chief executive of Food NI, which is dedicated to enhancing the reputation of food and drink from NI
College support staff are to take strike action next week in a dispute over pay, terms, and conditions.

Unison said more than 2,000 members in colleges across Scotland will walk out on Thursday September 7.

The national strike day will be followed by a rolling programme of dates for localised action in colleges across the country.

The union claimed that although college employers have increased their offer from 2% to a 3,500 flat-rate payment over two years, this comes with a real threat of compulsory redundancies of support staff.

Those walking out next week will include librarians, IT specialists, technicians, administrative and business support staff, cleaners, canteen workers and estate management staff.

Members voted by 93% in April to strike on a turnout of 62%.

Unison further education branch secretary Chris Greenshields said: College staff were due this pay increase a year ago. Its unacceptable, even by the standards of the college sector, to take this long to agree a pay deal.

The employers idea of a resolution to the crisis is to threaten our members with compulsory redundancy.

Effectively members are being asked to pay for their own pay rise with their job, during a cost-of-living crisis.

We need the same guarantee that has been given to the rest of the public sector that there will be no compulsory redundancies.

Unison has appealed to the Scottish government to help us find a solution  employers must extend the no compulsory redundancy guarantee to college staff. Colleges are publicly funded but the Government refuses to intervene.

The minister seems willing to allow the strikes to proceed rather than ensure staff get a decent pay rise.

Colleges where Unison has a mandate to take strike action are: City of Glasgow College, Edinburgh College, Fife College, Glasgow Clyde College, West College Scotland, North East Scotland College, Glasgow Kelvin College and Ayrshire College.

It also has a mandate for action at Dundee & Angus College, New College Lanarkshire, UHI Argyll, UHI Moray, UHI Perth, UHI Inverness, Borders College, Dumfries & Galloway College, South Lanarkshire College, West Lothian College, Forth Valley College, Newbattle Abbey College.

Gavin Donoghue, director of College Employers Scotland, said: It is disappointing that Unison has announced national strike action. Colleges will now seek to put in place measures to mitigate the effects of any proposed action on their students education.

College Employers Scotland provided a full and final pay offer to all support staff trade unions (Unison, Unite and GMB) in June for a cumulative 3,500 pay rise.

Employers have requested support staff unions take this pay offer to their members for a formal ballot, as it would equate to an average 11% pay increase, and an average increase of 14% for those paid under 25,000.

Employers have also committed to managing organisational change through voluntary measures in accordance with the Fair Work agenda. Any compulsory measures would only be used as a last resort when all other measures have been considered.

We hope Unison calls off these damaging strikes so colleges can continue to provide the world-class learning experience that students rightly expect and deserve.
Hollywood star Liam Neeson has said he has a cup-of-tea test to decide his acting choices, also revealing how he still speaks to his late wife every day and recalling the time he forgot his lines in front of Northern Irelands biggest dignitaries.

Speaking on the podcast Conan OBrien Has No Friends to promote his new action film, Retribution, Neeson explained how a hot cup of tea can help him decide his next job.

Yeah, I have a cup-of-tea test. If I get to page five [of a script] and I think Ill make a cup of tea, that means its not great, said the actor, whose latest action film has been scathed by critics for its formulaic plot and action scenes.

I knew [Retribution] was going to be thriller, and I had done films with the guys [producers Alex Heineman and Andrew Rona] before.

One about a plane that crashes, another about a train that crashes, so it had to be car  and this one is about a car.

Liam Neeson

Read more Liam Neeson says he hasnt been to confession since priest shamed him for masturbating

Neeson said he read the script for the film, in which he plays Berlin-based American businessman Matt Turner, who finds himself in a race against time after a bomb is placed under his car in London, and found it to be a great page-turner.

The film is Neesons latest in a career which has seen his star only rise in the past several years, after achieving professional success with his Oscar-nominated portrayal of Oskar Schindler in Schindlers List in 1993.

Despite an impressive CV, the actor also told comedian OBrien he often feels he doesnt belong in the same world as his famous counterparts.

I still feel that way, if Im in illustrious company not worthy, he said, recalling an event dedicated to the life and work of Steven Spielberg at which he was seated beside Bruce Springsteen and former US president Barack Obama.

I was in a film with Tony [Sir Anthony] Hopkins. I was in a remake of Mutiny On The Bounty with him and he was f***ing magnificent.

But any time I run into Tony, he says the same to me, that, like me, he hasnt been found out yet.

And he means it. Two f***ing Academy Awards and hes brilliant, and he means it.

Read more Liam Neesons new action film slammed by critics

Neeson also said he experiences a form of imposter syndrome during performing, recalling a particularly time in the late 1970s when he said he forgot his lines in the play Aristocrats in Belfast.

I had learnt the part in two weeks and then the audience was filled with various Northern Ireland dignitaries. I had this drunken spiel to do and I forgot my words, he said.

You could have heard a pin drop Luckily I was playing a drunkard, so I was able to stumble off stage and get to the script girl, and then I came back on stage with the lines.

But I will never forget that moment of absolutely terrifying fear.

The Ballymena man also doesnt mince words when it comes to his turn as Qui-Gon Jinn in the Star Wars prequel. Neeson recently returned to the franchise in a surprise cameo in Disney+s Obi Wan Kenobi series, reuniting with friend and star Ewan McGregor.

I mean, it is a cult. Youve so many movies and spin-offs now. Theyre diluting the entire thing, I think, the actor said, laughing.

Occasionally youll get a kid and youll think, Oh, he wants a Star Wars autograph, and Im thinking, I dont really want to, he said, regarding the fame associated with starring in the space opera series.

Then you realise its not the kid, its the grandfather or the dad, beard and everything, and they suddenly become 11 years old again.

I remember the first time we were playing with them [lightsabers]. Mine was green, of course, because Im Irish, so Irish Jedi, and we pulled them to start our little fight. We both automatically went, Swoosh, swoosh, swoosh, and George [Lucas] turns to us and says, Cut! Boys, you know we can add that in later? and Im just thinking about myself, You t**t.

Read more Irish thriller starring Liam Neeson and Ciaran Hinds heading to Venice Film Festival

Despite his turn in space becoming one of his most famous roles, Neeson once again touched upon his brush with one of the most famous parts of all time  James Bond.

You know, all these journalists write that I turned down Bond. I didnt, he said about taking on the role.

They were interested after Schindlers List, but I was on their radar for five minutes, and Natasha [Richardson] did say that if I took it, we wouldnt be getting married.

When host OBrien apologised for recalling a meeting he had with the Irish actor shortly after his wifes death in 2009 following a ski injury, Neeson responded to reassure the comedian he doesnt object to talking about his life wife, whom he still refers to in the present tense.

No, its fine, said the actor.

We still talk every day, me and Natasha. Every day.
Parliaments Culture, Media and Sport Committee told ministers to heed the warnings over protecting intellectual property from the rapidly advancing technology (PA)

The Government must not allow artificial intelligence (AI) developers the free use of copyrighted songs and books for training, MPs have urged.

Parliaments Culture, Media and Sport Committee told ministers to heed the chorus of warnings from musicians, authors and artists about the risks of failing to protect intellectual property from the rapidly advancing technology.

The cross-party group of MPs said the Government must follow through on its pledge and abandon plans to exempt text and data mining by AI from copyright protections.

Data mining is a way of deriving information such as patterns and trends from different sources, including books, websites and music.

Figures from across the creative industries have expressed concerns about the impact such a process will have on arts and cultural production.

Jamie Njoku-Goodwin, chief executive of British trade body UK Music, has warned of the potential of music laundering where AI companies essentially take music they do not own, use copies of it to train an AI, and then reap the commercial rewards with a legally clean new song, the committee said.

The Abba Voyage virtual concert (Johan Persson/Abba Voyage)

Svana Gisla, producer of the virtual concert residency Abba Voyage, told the committee any such exemption would be terrible, saying: Our emerging, new and existing artists have a hard enough time surviving in life, let alone if they have to compete against computers on top of that.

Last June, the Intellectual Property Office (IPO) announced proposals to introduce a copyright and database exception which allows (text and data mining) for any purpose.

In response to concerns from across the industry, the Government appears to have since changed course, saying it no longer wants to proceed with the original plans.

In a report released on Wednesday, the committee praised the Government for listening to stakeholders but warned its initial handling of the issue showed a clear lack of understanding of the needs of the UKs creative industries.

The report recommends the Government provide a substantive update on its direction in managing the impact of AI on the industries by the end of 2023.

Instead of a broad text and data mining exemption to copyright, it proposes proactive support for small AI developers in particular, who may encounter difficulties in acquiring licences.

This would include reviewing how licensing schemes can be introduced for technical material and how mutually beneficial arrangements can be struck with rights management organisations and creative industries trade bodies, it said.

Dame Caroline Dinenage, chairwoman of the committee, said: The chorus of warnings from musicians, authors and artists about the real and lasting harm a failure to protect intellectual property in a world where the influence of AI is growing should be enough for Ministers to sit up and take notice.

The Government must now start to rebuild trust by showing it really understands where the creative industries are coming from and develop a copyright and regulatory regime that properly protects them as AI continues to disrupt traditional cultural production.

The development and use of creative technology is currently being hampered by a shortage in technical skills. For the UK to fulfil its potential as a world leader in the creative industries, the Government must commit to ensuring the right skills are being taught to ensure a pathway for the next generation of digital artists, visual effects professionals and innovators.

A Government spokesperson said: We will take a balanced and pragmatic approach to the use of AI across creative industries, which allows both AI innovators and our world-leading creative industries sector to continue to grow.

To support this, the Intellectual Property Office is working with AI firms and rights holders to produce an agreement and guidance on copyright.

This supports our ambition to make the UK a world leader in AI research and development, while making sure our copyright framework continues to promote and reward innovation and investment in the UKs creative industries.

We are working closely with stakeholders to understand the impact AI has on broadcasters, publishers and creative businesses.
Accused Nick Watkins (right) with then mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey Stephen Ross

The owner of a Co Antrim aesthetics clinic offering anti-wrinkle and weight loss treatments is to appear in court accused of a catalogue of offences.

Nick Watkins (51), from Forthaven in Ballyclare, is charged with breaches of human medicines regulations.

He is the main practitioner at Glengormleys Mac Aesthetics, which offers bumlifts, liquid facelifts, non-surgical rhinoplasty, vampire facials, calf-slimming treatments and more.

The clinics website says all treatments are administered in a council-approved establishment, complying with all health and safety and environmental health standards.

Watkins is due to appear at Belfast Magistrates Court next Tuesday charged with two counts of advertising prescription-only medicines and nine counts of possessing medicinal products with intent to supply.

He is also due to face three counts of possessing unauthorised medicinal products.

Read more NI suicide victims mum to give evidence in case of man accused of sharing scene images

Watkins is accused of advertising Botox in December last year in a way that was likely to lead to the use of a prescription-only medicine.

It is alleged he advertised Ozempic in a similar manner around the same time.

He is further accused possessing lidocaine, Saxenda, Kenalog, hyaluronidase, adrenaline, B12 and sodium chloride with intent to supply without a prescription between July and December last year.

The charge sheet also alleges he was in possession of liraglutide/Victoza, Botulax 200 and lidocaine (J-Caine Cream) which he knew or had reasonable cause to believe was intended to be sold at the premises.

The businesss website describes the types of IV treatments it offers, including a Hangover IV Drip for 100. The Snow White IV Drip and Rapunzel IV Drip are cheaper at 95 and 89 respectively. A bumlift is on offer for 299, intramuscular injections from 25 to 200 and non-surgical facelifts for 599.

The website claims the business previously came in second place in the Highly Recommended Cosmetic Clinic of the Year category at the Northern Ireland Hair and Beauty Awards.

Mr Watkins declined to comment when approached by this newspaper about the case.

Read more Two men ordered to appear in court to face charges relating to death of Toome bypass crash victim

DUP councillor Stephen Ross attended the official opening of Mac Aesthetics during his term as mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council.

A picture shared on the businesss website shows him standing alongside Watkins while wearing his ceremonial chain.

It is understood to have been taken during the period of alleged offending.

Mr Ross told this newspaper he attended the business launch after being invited on an official engagement.

I knew I was going to open a shop that does Botox, but I had no idea what they sold, he said.

I dont know the legalities when I go to open something. I assume it is safe.

I would not have been anywhere near it if I thought it was not above board.

I do not know this individual and never seen him before or after the event.

I have no interest in Botox and have no knowledge of what happened in that place.

It was a new business opening in an area that needs new businesses. I was invited along and I went.
The body of Robert Wilkin was discovered off the Sliabh Leag cliffs on July 3

A woman has appeared in court charged with the murder of a man from Northern Ireland whose body was found floating in waters off the Sliabh Liag cliffs in Co Donegal in July.

The body of Robert Wilkin (60s) was found on July 3 last after a week-long search by gardai and the Irish Coastguard.

Today, at a special sitting of Letterkenny District Court, Nikita Burns was charged with his murder.

Ms Burns (21) is the second person to be charged with the murder of Mr Wilkin.

On July 14, 38-year-old Alan Vial, was also charged with the murder of Mr Wilkin.

Vial, of Drumanoo Head, Killybegs, was charged that on the 25th of June, 2023 at a place unknown within the State, did murder one Robert Wilkin (also known as Robin Wilkin.)

He was remanded in custody and is due to appear before the courts again in September.

Ms Burns, wearing white trousers and a black top, appeared before Judge Ciaran Liddy.

Detective Sgt Matthie Murphy of Ballyshannon Garda Station gave evidence of arrest, charge and caution.

He gave evidence of arresting Ms Burns on August 28th at 9.53pm at Westend, Bundoran.

Slieve League cliffs in Co Donegal

Ms Burns was charged that on the 25th of June, 2023 at a place unknown within the State, did murder one Robert Wilkin (also known as Robin Wilkin.)

The charge was Contrary to Common Law and as provided for by Section 4 of the Criminal Justice Act 1964.

At 10.21pm when charged Ms Burn replied: "I didn't do it."

Garda Superintendent Karen Duffy asked the court to remand the accused in custody until September 4 to appear at Letterkenny District Court by videolink.

Solicitor for the accused, Mr Rory O'Brien, said that bail does not arise in the matter.

Legal aid was granted as the court was told that Ms Burns is a suitable candidate.

Mr O'Brien asked for legal aid which was granted and he also asked that she receive all the necessary medical treatment while in custody including any psychiatric treatment she may need.

The case was adjourned until September 3 to seek directions from the Director of Public Prosecutions.
Chief Constable says he accepts findings that quashed the actions taken by PSNI against constables after massacre memorial event

Mark Sykes being taken into police custody in February 2021 after he attended the memorial for the victims and survivors of the Sean Graham's bookmakers killings

Two PSNI constables who were disciplined after arresting a man at a commemoration in south Belfast are expected to seek compensation, as well as demanding that any note of the incident be permanently expunged from their employment records.

The Chief Constable has said he accepts the findings of the High Court that quashed the actions taken against his officers after the Troubles memorial event.

The High Court ruling in the officers favour centred on an incident that occurred during a commemoration of a 1992 attack, during which five people were murdered and nine others wounded when loyalist gunmen opened fire inside Sean Graham Bookmakers on the Ormeau Road in south Belfast.

Two PSNI officers unlawfully disciplined for arrest at Sean Graham massacre memorial, judge rules

During the commemoration attended by up to 30 people, one man  Mark Sykes, who had been shot and injured in the massacre  was detained on suspicion of disorderly behaviour and put in handcuffs. He was later released without charge.

Despite acknowledging the difficult situation in which the PSNI was placed, Mr Justice Scoffield concluded that the decision to suspend one officer and move a second was influenced by the threat, real or perceived, that Sinn Fein would quit the Policing Board unless the duty status of both probationary constables at the commemoration event was changed.

Mr Justice Scoffield had been told that Deputy Chief Constable Mark Hamilton, who was tasked to deal with the incident, received a phone call from Sinn Fein Policing Board member Gerry Kelly as part of a frenzy of activity in the immediate aftermath.

His attention was also drawn to the arrest being made within days of an alleged loyalist show of strength at Pitt Park in east Belfast where up to 60 masked men gathered without any immediate police intervention.

Sinn Feins then Deputy First Minister, Michelle ONeill, also tweeted about an apparent culture of double standards in the PSNI and of turning a blind eye to UDA and UVF thugs, while targeting those laying flowers on the anniversary of loved ones.

Mr Byrne later confirmed he spoke to her about the events on the Ormeau Road.

A barrister representing the Chief Constable had insisted that Mr Byrne had defused an unprecedented, critical incident which drew heavy criticism from Sinn Fein and jeopardised wider public confidence in Northern Irelands reformed police service.

But Mr Justice Scoffield ruled: Both the Deputy Chief Constable and the Chief Constable were acutely aware of the threat of Sinn Fein withdrawing support for policing and/or withdrawing from the Policing Board if immediate action was not taken in respect of the officers duty status.

It is impossible to avoid the conclusion that the pressure so exerted was, in large measure, a result of a wholly separate and unrelated (Pitt Park) incident which was wrongly conflated with the actions of the applicants in the incident in which they were involved.

Read more PSNI Chief Constable ducks questions as outside officer appointed to lead data breach probe

The judge held: I have been persuaded that the respondent imposed suspension in the first applicants case because of the threat (whether real or perceived) that, if it did not do so, republican support for policing would be withdrawn. To reach a decision on that basis was in my view unlawful.

Counsel for the two officers had argued that the PSNI was wrong to focus on the fallout, rather than the seriousness of the alleged misconduct. The Belfast Telegraph understands that both officers, represented by Edwards and Co solicitors, are now seeking to pursue a separate civil action for damage to their career progression as a result of the incident.

The two were supported in the action by the Police Federation of Northern Ireland. Its chairman, Liam Kelly, said: In our view, this High Court judgment calls into question the decision-making of the Senior Executive Team right up to and including the Deputy Chief Constable and the Chief Constable himself.

The two officers will be delighted by this outcome. Unfortunately one of them still finds himself being subjected to a disciplinary process and, in light of this conclusion, we would demand the PSNI expedite this matter forthwith.

TUV leader Jim Allister called for the Chief Constable to resign, saying the ruling should mark the end of Mr Byrnes tenure.

This is a staggering indictment of the Chief Constable and a sobering insight into the politics of keep Sinn Fein happy at all costs, even at the cost of sacrificing your own officers, he said.

The DUPs lead representative on the Policing Board Trevor Clarke said the ruling by Mr Justice Scoffield showed the Chief Constable chose political considerations above natural justice for his own officers.

Two young police officers had their lives and careers unjustifiably disrupted, and the PSNI leadership chose to stand with Sinn Fein rather than their own officers, he said.

There are huge questions to be answered around this case when a court has ultimately determined that two-tier policing has operated in Northern Ireland.

The rule of law must apply equally to everyone in Northern Ireland, yet even PSNI officers were thrown to the wolves by their own bosses to placate Sinn Fein.

Chief Constable Simon Byrne said he accepted the findings of the court.

The events of 5th February 2021 were difficult for everyone. Those paying their respects at a memorial event, the young officers who attended on behalf of the Police Service and for the public who observed the footage of an incident which happened shortly afterwards which circulated across media platforms, he said.

As Chief Constable I accept the findings of the court. In particular that there was a legal error in the way in which the public interest test was applied in deciding to suspend one officer and reposition another, rendering the action unlawful.

It is important however to clarify that neither officer has been disciplined to date. This judgment relates to the decision to suspend one officer and re-position another whilst the Police Ombudsman conducted an investigation following a public complaint.

We will of course take time to carefully consider the full judgment to ensure any lessons are learnt to prevent any future recurrence.

Ulster Unionist leader Doug Beattie and UUP MLA Mike Nesbitt have written to the Chief Constable calling for an urgent meeting in response to the ruling.

Mr Nesbitt said: It is unacceptable that a political party can influence policing and the duty status of any police officer, as has been made clear in Mr Justice Scoffields ruling.

Doug and I shall be making clear our view and seeking to establish how this happened, on what other occasions it may have happened and how the Chief Constable intends to reassure the public it can never happen again.

Timeline of events leading to the judge's ruling

February 5, 2021: Mark Sykes, a survivor of the 1992 Sean Graham bookmakers massacre, is arrested after a group of between 30 and 40 people gathered at a memorial to the attack on Belfasts Ormeau Road to mark its anniversary.

At the time Covid regulations banned public gatherings of more than six people. He is arrested for disorderly behaviour and resisting arrest and is released later that day. The Police Ombudsman launches an investigation.

February 6, 2021: Chief Constable Simon Byrne apologises for what happened and announces one of the officers involved has been suspended and another has been repositioned.

Read more Sean Graham arrest row: PSNI officers expected to sue after High Court rules in their favour

February 7, 2021: Sinn Feins Michelle ONeill says there is a crisis in confidence in policing among nationalists over the incident. She references a separate incident when there was no immediate police response to an alleged loyalist show of strength at Pitt Park in east Belfast, when a crowd of masked men had gathered.

February 10, 2021: Police Ombudsman writes to Mr Byrne asking that no further public comment or disclosures are made while an incident is being investigated.

Mark Sykes being taken into police custody in February 2021 after he attended the memorial for the victims and survivors of the Sean Graham's bookmakers killings

March 1, 2021: Police Federation announces it will launch judicial review proceedings over a decision not to lift the suspension of one officer and the repositioning of another. It later emerges that the Police Federation is supporting the two officers who are taking the legal action, rather than taking the action itself.

Read more Simon Byrne was on shaky ground as it is... but this only adds to the pressure

December 8, 2021: Public Prosecution Service announced none of the officers are to be prosecuted for alleged assault over the incident.

October 3, 2022: Legal case begins at the High Court. Counsel for Mr Byrne said the initial incident jeopardised wider public confidence in policing in Northern Ireland and drew severe criticism from Sinn Fein.

This was not the rumination of people on social media, these were all sorts of political leaders up to the deputy first minister, says Brett Lockhart KC.

Read more Jim Allister calls for PSNI Chief Constable to go following court ruling

October 4, 2022: DUP says Mr Lockharts submissions raise serious questions about Sinn Feins influence in policing.

August 29, 2023: Mr Justice Scoffield quashes the decisions to suspend one of the officers and reposition the other. He says the two officers were unlawfully disciplined to allay any threat of Sinn Fein abandoning its support for policing.

Both the Deputy Chief Constable and the Chief Constable were acutely aware of the threat of Sinn Fein withdrawing support for policing and/or withdrawing from the Policing Board if immediate action was not taken in respect of the officers duty status, he said.
In the past nine months, Americans have been worried about the continuous development of AI, according to the Pew Research Center.

Read Also: The White House Invites Hackers to Probe for Bias in AI

More Concern, Less Excitement on AI Advancement

In a blog post written by Pew Research Center, the organization noted that Americans feel more concerned that excited about the advancement of AI. Specifically, 52 percent of the American respondent stated that they are more worried while only 10 percent of them expressed their excitement. On the other hand, 36 percent admitted that they are having a mix of feelings with the progress of AI.

Pew Research also cited that the growing concern is a result of the increasing public awareness of AI. For instance, nine-in-ten adults have heard about AI, which is a huge increase from the center's data from December 2022. People who have heard more about AI are most likely to be concerned about its impact rather than become excited.

Currently, big tech companies such as OpenAI, Microsoft, and Google, have been continuously working to improve and develop their AI tools to help both individuals and organizations, worldwide.

AI Remains Helpful in Daily Life

Despite of the increasing worry over AI, most people still acknowledge that AI is capable of helping people navigate their daily lives. This includes online shopping, manufacturing safety, and health care.

On the other hand, people are still wary and cautious on AI's impact towards privacy and public safety. This comes valid as AI companies have been facing serious allegations against copyright infringement and data privacy issues.

Overall, with AI establishing its presence in the modern life people would always have something to worry about or be excited about. Public notion is still developing and may vary depending on each situation.

Related Article: California is Using AI to Scan for Smoke, Detect Wildfires
Mr Justice Scoffield quashed decisions to suspend one probationary constable and re-position his colleague following an outcry at how police handled the service.

The PSNI has serious questions to answer following a judges ruling that two officers were unlawfully disciplined for arrests made at a Troubles atrocity commemoration, the Police Federation has said.

A High Court judge ruled today ruled on Tuesday that the two junior officers were unlawfully disciplined to allay any threat of Sinn Fein abandoning its support for policing in Northern Ireland.

Mr Justice Scoffield quashed decisions to suspend one probationary constable and re-position his colleague following an outcry at how police handled the service marking an anniversary of the Sean Graham bookmakers attack.

Following the outcome of Tuesdays hearing, the Police Federation said the ruling called into question the decision-making process of the PSNIs Senior Executive Team.

Federation Chair Liam Kelly said: This is clear vindication of the position we adopted. It was our clear view that the initial actions taken by PSNI against both officers were high-handed, unwarranted and excessive.

"There was a headlong rush by the Chief Constable to apologise for what took place when the officers, in fact, were simply doing their duty by enforcing Covid regulations.

"Theyd received the all-clear to intervene in the gathering, but yet they were the only two singled out for disciplinary measures.

In our view, this High Court Judgement calls into question the decision-making of the Senior Executive Team right up to and including the Deputy Chief Constable and the Chief Constable himself.

These officers were sacrificed on the altar of political expediency in a disgraceful attempt to pander to political pressure.

Mr Kelly said one of the officers remained the subject of a disciplinary process, and called on the PSNI to deal with the matter.

"In light of this conclusion, we would demand the PSNI expedite this matter forthwith, he said.

The rank and file expect the PSNI Senior management to have their backs when they go about their duties - this judgement reaffirms the perception and belief that this is sadly not the case.

The Federation had no hesitation in taking this JR. It was the correct action to take to defend these two officers who, through no fault of their own, found themselves bearing the brunt of an over-zealous disciplinary process that left their careers on hold.

"Today, an injustice has been corrected and the men and women I represent are delighted at the outcome.

The incident came on the anniversary of the February 1992 attack, during which five people were murdered and nine others wounded when loyalist gunmen opened fire inside the betting shop on the Ormeau Road in south Belfast.

Two PSNI officers unlawfully disciplined for arrest at Sean Graham massacre memorial, judge rules

In February 2021 the annual wreath-laying ceremony at the scene took place amid restrictions on public gatherings due to Covid-19 regulations.

During that event attended by up to 30 people, one man who had been shot and injured in the massacre was detained on suspicion of disorderly behaviour and put in handcuffs. He was later released without charge.

Chief Constable Simon Byrne later apologised for the incident and confirmed the disciplinary steps taken against the two recently-recruited officers.

Although the suspension and re-positioning decisions were lifted later that year following a review, both constables remained aggrieved at their treatment.

Backed by the Police Federation, the pair applied for a judicial review into the lawfulness of the disciplinary moves.

In a statement, one of the constables stressed they were unaware that a commemorative event was being held on the Ormeau Road.

He claimed there was some hostility from within the gathering, with one man arrested after swearing and ignoring warnings about his behaviour.

The court heard he felt isolated, abandoned, embarrassed and demoralised by the decision to suspend him.

A chief inspector who served him with the notice allegedly remarked that it was the first time in 30 years that he disagreed with a suspension decision, but was following lawful orders.

Counsel for the officers argued that the PSNI got it wrong by focusing on the fall-out, rather than the seriousness of any alleged misconduct.

Mr Justice Scoffield was told that as a Deputy Chief Constable went to deal with the incident he received a phone call from Sinn Feins police spokesperson, Gerry Kelly, as part of a frenzy of activity in the immediate aftermath.

His attention was also drawn to the arrest being made within days of an alleged loyalist show of strength at Pitt Park in east Belfast where up to 60 masked men gathered without any immediate police intervention.

At the time Sinn Feins Deputy First Minister, Michelle ONeill, tweeted about an apparent culture of double standards in the PSNI and of turning a blind eye to UDA and UVF thugs, while targeting those laying flowers on the anniversary of loved ones.

Mr Byrne later confirmed that he spoke to her about the events on the Ormeau Road.

A barrister representing the Chief Constable insisted he had defused an unprecedented, critical incident which drew heavy criticism from Sinn Fein and jeopardised wider public confidence in Northern Irelands reformed police service.

Despite expressing sympathy for two young constables described as having acted over-zealously, counsel claimed the incident created an existential threat to the PSNI.

However, Mr Justice Scoffield ruled that it involved a legally impermissible assessment of the public interest.

Both the Deputy Chief Constable and the Chief Constable were acutely aware of the threat of Sinn Fein withdrawing support for policing and/or withdrawing from the Policing Board if immediate action was not taken in respect of the officers duty status, he said.

It is impossible to avoid the conclusion that the pressure so exerted was, in large measure, a result of a wholly separate and unrelated (Pitt Park) incident which was wrongly conflated with the actions of the applicants in the incident in which they were involved.

The judge held: I have been persuaded that the respondent imposed suspension in the first applicants case because of the threat (whether real or perceived) that, if it did not do so, republican support for policing would be withdrawn.

To reach a decision on that basis was in my view unlawful.

Despite acknowledging the difficult situation in which the PSNI was placed, he concluded that the decision to move the second officer was also influenced by the same threat, real or perceived, that one party would quit Northern Irelands Policing Board unless the duty status of both probationary constables at the commemoration event was changed.

Mr Justice Scoffield confirmed: I will allow the applicants judicial review on the limited grounds explained, and will quash the decision made to suspend the first applicant and the decision to re-position the second applicant.

Although the practical effect of those decisions has dissipated, given that they have previously been lifted upon review, I consider the applicants are entitled to a form of relief which removes those decisions from their records as a matter of law.
PSNI response to incident 'inadequate' says O'NeillOffice of the Police Ombudsman notified of incidentSimon Byrne appeals for calm following criticism

Police at the scene of the Sean Grahams bookmakers shooting as family members and survivors lay flowers.

Police at the scene of the Sean Grahams bookmakers shooting as family members and survivors lay flowers.

Police at the scene of the Sean Graham bookmakers shooting as family members and survivors lay flowers.

Deputy First Minister Michelle O'Neill has requested an urgent meeting with the PSNI Chief Constable after police arrested a victim of a Troubles shooting during an anniversary event.

Mark Sykes was detained in the Ormeau Road area of Belfast after officers intervened at the memorial marking the 29th anniversary of a loyalist massacre at the Sean Graham's bookmakers shop, his lawyer said.

Public gatherings of more than six people are currently prevented under Covid-19 lockdown regulations in Northern Ireland.

Five people, including a 15-year-old boy, were murdered and several others injured in February 1992 when Ulster Freedom Fighters (UFF) opened fire at the bookies.

Footage of angry exchanges involving officers and those attending Friday's event have been posted online.

Mr Sykes was later released from Musgrave PSNI station in Belfast.

Chief Constable Simon Byrne appealed for calm following the incident and in a statement issued on Friday evening he acknowledged that it had taken place on what was a "difficult day" for the families involved.

Police at the scene of the Sean Grahams bookmakers shooting as family members and survivors lay flowers.

Mrs ONeill said in a statement on Friday evening that she requested the urgent meeting with Mr Byrne "to discuss the response to the awful scenes in Belfast today".

The man was arrested at an event to commemorate the 29th anniversary of the Massacre, in which five people including a child were killed by loyalist gunmen using weapons brought into Ireland by a British agent," she explained.

The arrest by the PSNI of this man who was at a wreath laying ceremony attended by family members of those killed has caused unprecedented anger and distress across the community."

She added: "The PSNIs response tonight is inadequate. It further adds insult to injury to the families of the victims who have been waiting almost three decades for truth about the deaths of their loved ones.

I have also contacted the families and am seeking to meet with them as soon as possible.

The Chief Constable needs to understand the damage that the actions of his officers today has had on community confidence in policing."

The Sinn Fein vice president continued: This standard of policing is not acceptable and should not be acceptable to any section of this community.

Mr Byrne said footage of the incident, including body cam footage, will be reviewed.

Outside the police station earlier Mr Sykes' lawyer Niall Murphy said: "Every year the victims and survivors gather in dignity to remember their loved ones and to say a short prayer.

"This year because of Covid restrictions it was restricted to the five families who maintained a dignified silence and left flowers down.

"The police attended, for what reason I will never know, approached victims and survivors of an atrocity and commenced to harass, push and assault man, woman and child."

Mr Murphy said his client was arrested on suspicion of disorderly behaviour.

"The only disorderly behaviour that happened on the Ormeau Road today was by the police who had no right to be there and who have wreaked havoc on community relations both in the Ormeau Road and in the wider community," he said.

Sinn Fein Policing Board member Gerry Kelly said he was "shocked and appalled" at the man's arrest.

He accused police of "heavy handed" tactics.

"The man and other relatives of the five victims of the massacre, which included a 15-year-old boy, were laying wreaths at the scene of the murders to mark the 29th anniversary of the slaying of their loved ones," he said.

Mr Kelly said family members had gathered to call for the publication of a delayed police ombudsman's report into the murders, amid allegations of state collusion.

"As the relatives were dispersing police moved in and arrested a victim of the Bookies' Massacre," he said.

Mr Kelly added: "This man should be released immediately and the police should apologise for adding insult to injury to the families of those who lost their lives in the massacre and who have waited almost 30 years for truth and justice."

Mr Byrne said in a statement on Friday evening officers from the South Belfast Local Team came across a group of "between 30 and 40 people" at the memorial event.

"As the event concluded, two officers approached a person to talk to him about a breach of the Health Protection Regulations," he explained.

"The situation quickly escalated and a man was arrested for disorderly behaviour and resisting arrest. He was taken to Musgrave Police Station and was released at 4.04pm. In the course of the incident a police officer sustained a minor injury to his face."

The senior police chief added: "We are now reviewing all footage of the incident including our officers Body Worn Video and have notified the Office of the Police Ombudsman, and we are carrying out an assessment of the conduct of the officers involved.

"I have personally spoken to the First Minister, the Deputy First Minister, the local Member for Parliament and a range of other stakeholders to brief them on what has happened."

Mr Byrne added: "I fully recognise the sensitivities of this incident and just how difficult a day this would have already been for the families who lost loved ones in the atrocity. That should not be forgotten.

"We are acutely aware that this is the latest incident to raise concerns about the enforcement of Coronavirus Regulations and illustrates there are no easy answers. I would appeal for calm at this time."
Children enjoying a back-to-school bazaar at Iqraa Mosque in Dunmurry on Sunday

Belfast Lord Mayor Ryan Murphy with imam Jamal Iweida at Iqraa Mosque in Dunmurry

SDLP MP Claire Hanna with Jamal Iweida and party colleagues Gerard McDonald and Donal Lyons at Iqraa Mosque in Dunmurry

The leader of a Belfast mosque has spoken out in support of a Jewish campaign to ban the sale of Nazi-branded items in the UK.

It comes after three banners bearing swastikas and the SS logo were erected outside the Islamic centre in Dunmurry last week.

Imam Jamal Iweida, who is the president of the Iqraa Mosque, based on Ashley Park, was responding to an invitation from the European Jewish Association.

We support any call for banning the sale of these items, he said.

It makes sense, because these symbols are used to intimidate.

For many people they bring very bad memories, which is not fair.

The chairman of the European Jewish Association, Rabbi Menachem Margolin, condemned the incident as he expressed solidarity with the local Islamic community here.

The flying of the swastika flag anywhere, at any time, is abhorrent, the faith leader said.

Deliberately flying it in close proximity to a mosque is additionally an attempt to intimidate.

Sadly, as Jews, we regularly see Nazi symbols scratched or painted on our synagogues, our community buildings and even our gravestones.

The European Jewish Association fervently believes in an outright ban on the sale of all and any Nazi insignia, as well as any auctions of memorabilia on the open market.

What we have seen in Dunmurry only strengthens our resolve to ensure that governments across the continent act and outlaw [the items].

Rabbi Margolin said the sooner these flags, and all memorabilia, are taken out of circulation, the better.

We extend our solidarity to the Islamic community in Northern Ireland and invite them to join us in pushing for an immediate end to the glorification of the murderous Nazi regime, appropriated and revered by the worst and most hateful elements in society today.

It also goes without saying that the proud history and memory of those Northern Irish men and women who fought against the Nazis is also sullied by such acts.

They would doubtless be as disgusted as we all are.

Mr Iweida said he was surprised by the level of professionalism with which the flags were made and suspects that they were purchased online before being hung from lampposts outside the mosque.

Police, who were alerted to the incident after a woman discovered the banners while arriving for morning prayers with her young children on Wednesday, are treating the incident as a racially motivated hate crime.

An individual was captured on CCTV climbing a ladder to erect the flags at around 10.45pm on Tuesday, under the cover of darkness, before fleeing on foot around 30 minutes later..

A rally organised by United Against Racism Belfast took place in Dunmurry Park on Saturday to face down the far-right.

It followed a special prayer service at the mosque, where worshippers vowed not to be deterred from their mission to promote peace, love and equality.

On Sunday, hundreds of people, including local politicians, attended the centres back-to-school bazaar, which featured a bouncy castle and cuisine from countries including Syria and Sudan.

Mr Iweida hailed the unintended consequences of the act of intimidation.

Around 400 people turned out and we thanked everybody for their encouragement, he said.

That level of support has definitely reassured our community.

People travelled from all over to make a point of showing their support, and its the first time we have hosted politicians  many were visiting us for the first time.

Im not sure thats what those who put the flags up had envisaged as the outcome.

South Belfast MP Claire Hanna was among those present at the fun day, which was moved inside due to the wet weather.

Like many, I was disgusted to learn of Nazi flags being flown around Iqraa mosque in Dunmurry, she posted on social media.

Those symbols of hate were utterly eclipsed by the solidarity and community on display at a family fun day.

Belfast Lord Mayor Ryan Murphy said he was delighted to join the Muslim community for a fantastic celebration reflecting the positive and vibrant diversity that enriches our city every day.

This is the true face of our new, positive and progressive Belfast, he added.

The small group of people who are intent on spreading hate within local communities will not succeed in their toxic agenda.

We must continue to work together to build a safe, welcoming and inclusive city for all.

A spokesperson for the PSNI said detectives are following a number of lines of enquiry.

We believe that a male arrived via the Kingsway area at around 10.45pm and a number of flags were erected, they said.

The male is believed to have left at around 11.20pm on foot towards the Kingsway area following the incident.

Anyone with information, or dash-cam footage, should contact 101 quoting reference number 360 23/08/23.
TUV leader Jim Allister has called for the Chief Constable to resign after a High Court ruling that two junior PSNI officers were unlawfully disciplined to relieve the threat of Sinn Fein withdrawing support for policing in Northern Ireland.

The incident occurred in February 2021, when the officers detained a man who was attending a Troubles atrocity commemoration.

Mr Allister said the todays ruling should mark the end of Mr Byrnes tenure.

This is a staggering indictment of the Chief Constable and a sobering insight into the politics of keep Sinn Fein happy at all costs, even at the cost of sacrificing your own officers.

Due process, proportionality and lawfulness all were secondary to keeping IRA/Sinn Fein on board. What they demanded they got, courtesy of the spineless Chief Constable.

The incident came on the anniversary of the February 1992 attack, during which five people were murdered and nine others wounded when loyalist gunmen opened fire inside Sean Graham Bookmakers on the Ormeau Road in south Belfast.

During that commemoration attended by up to 30 people, one man who had been shot and injured in the massacre was detained on suspicion of disorderly behaviour and put in handcuffs.

He was later released without charge.

Police at the scene of the Sean Graham bookmakers shooting as family members and survivors lay flowers.

The DUPs lead representative on the Policing Board Trevor Clarke said the ruling by Mr Justice Scoffield showed the Chief Constable chose political considerations above natural justice for his own officers.

Two young police officers had their lives and careers unjustifiably disrupted, and the PSNI leadership chose to stand with Sinn Fein rather than their own officers, he said.

There are huge questions to be answered around this case when a court has ultimately determined that two-tier policing has operated in Northern Ireland.

The rule of law must apply equally to everyone in Northern Ireland, yet even PSNI officers were thrown to the wolves by their own bosses to placate Sinn Fein, he said.

Two PSNI officers unlawfully disciplined for arrest at Sean Graham massacre memorial, judge rules

Public confidence in the PSNI has been significantly tested over recent weeks, and this ruling today underscores why many unionists have had and continue to have grave concerns on these issues.

Following the judgment Chief Constable Simon Byrne said he accepted the findings of the court, and that the events were challenging for everyine involved.

The events of 5th February 2021 were difficult for everyone, he said.

Those paying their respects at a memorial event, the young officers who attended on behalf of the Police Service and for the public who observed the footage of an incident which happened shortly afterwards which circulated across media platforms.

As Chief Constable I accept the findings of the court. In particular that there was a legal error in the way in which the public interest test was applied in deciding to suspend one officer and reposition another, rendering the action unlawful, he added.

It is important however to clarify that neither officer has been disciplined to date. This judgment relates to the decision to suspend one officer and re-position another whilst the Police Ombudsman conducted an investigation following a public complaint.

We will of course take time to carefully consider the full judgment to ensure any lessons are learnt to prevent any future recurrence.

Ulster Unionist Party Leader, Doug Beattie and UUP MLA Mike Nesbitt have written to the Chief Constable calling for an urgent meeting in response to the ruling.

Mr Nesbitt said: It is unacceptable that a political party can influence policing and the duty status of any police officer, as has been made clear in Mr Justice Scoffields ruling.

Doug and I shall be making clear our view and seeking to establish how this happened, on what other occasions it may have happened and how the Chief Constable intends to reassure the public it can never happen again. Chief Constable Byrne later apologised for the incident at the commemoration and confirmed the disciplinary steps taken against the two recently-recruited officers.

Although the suspension and re-positioning decisions were lifted later that year following a review, both constables remained aggrieved at their treatment.

Backed by the Police Federation, the pair applied for a judicial review into the lawfulness of the disciplinary moves.

In a statement, one of the constables stressed they were unaware that a commemorative event was being held on the Ormeau Road.

Counsel for the officers argued that the PSNI got it wrong by focusing on the fall-out, rather than the seriousness of any alleged misconduct.

Mr Justice Scoffield was told that as a Deputy Chief Constable went to deal with the incident he received a phone call from Sinn Feins police spokesperson, Gerry Kelly, as part of a frenzy of activity in the immediate aftermath.

Mr Justice Scoffield ruled that it involved a legally impermissible assessment of the public interest.

Both the Deputy Chief Constable and the Chief Constable were acutely aware of the threat of Sinn Fein withdrawing support for policing and/or withdrawing from the Policing Board if immediate action was not taken in respect of the officers duty status, he said.

It is impossible to avoid the conclusion that the pressure so exerted was, in large measure, a result of a wholly separate and unrelated (Pitt Park) incident which was wrongly conflated with the actions of the applicants in the incident in which they were involved.

The judge held: I have been persuaded that the respondent imposed suspension in the first applicants case because of the threat (whether real or perceived) that, if it did not do so, republican support for policing would be withdrawn.

To reach a decision on that basis was in my view unlawful.
A super blue blood moon sets behind downtown San Francisco, California before dawn on January 31, 2018. JOSH EDELSON/AFP via Getty Images

For the first time since 2009 a super blue moon will be visible for some Northern Irish stargazers thanks to clear spells in the forecast for Tuesday evening.

The Met Office has confirmed those looking up to the sky should be able to catch a glimpse, mainly dry conditions in southern counties and a few light showers in the north.

A super moon happens when the moon passes the point closest to the Earth at the same time it is full.

Meanwhile, a blue moon occurs every two to three years, when the moons cycle is slightly shorter than the average calendar month.

This results in a second full moon at the end of the month, popularly known as a blue moon.

This extraordinary cross-over of astronomical events will be most clearly visible from the west of Northern Ireland and the Republic and will not occur again until 2037, according to Astronomy Ireland.

The organisation told RTE it is exceedingly rare for a super moon to occur at the same time as a blue moon.

Read more Irishman (34) found dead at hotel in Ibiza

According to CEO David Moore, the key is to look east at sunset to watch the super blue moon rising directly opposite on the horizon where the sunsets.

To the naked eye, it looks full the night before and after. added Moore.

This means the event will be visible on Tuesday night, Wednesday night, and Thursday night.

Meanwhile, Wednesday in Northern Ireland will bring mainly dry conditions with some sunny spells and a maximum temperature of 19 degrees Celsius.

Outbreaks of patchy rain dominate the rest of week, with a cloudy start on Friday.

Those going to The Killers on Friday night will be happy to hear it is set to become brighter with some sunshine later on in the evening, with the dry weather and sunny spells carrying on to Saturday.

A spokesperson for the Met Office said that it looks like next week will bring a more settled period of weather.

There is still some uncertainty for the forecast next week related to hurricane activity in the tropical North Atlantic, the spokesperson added.

Read more Belfast International Airport expecting further cancellations as schedules recover after technical issue

They said it relates to where Hurricane Idalia continues to intensify along Floridas Gulf Coast.

UK winds are expected to be light at first, but they could strengthen at times in the northwest. Temperatures next week are likely to remain around average for the most part, with warmer temperatures being felt in southern areas.

Looking forward, the week ahead should begin fairly settled as showers and thunderstorms are confined to the northwest of the country.

While the return to more autumnal weather remains most likely in September, the downstream impacts of North Atlantic tropical cyclones is not known at this time.
NI Office tight-lipped over security obligation to PSNI officers after data breach scandal

Contract to install bulletproof doors and windows for people deemed to be under threat still on hold since ballistics tests highlighted serious flaws

Police stock image

Allison Morris Tue 29 Aug 2023 at 07:10

The Northern Ireland Office is refusing to say how it is meeting security obligations to PSNI officers and staff, with the government contract for fitting bulletproof windows and doors currently paused.
Passengers at Belfast International Airport faced a second day of delays on Tuesday (Pic by Liam McBurney/PA)

The Department for Transport has authorised night flying in order to deal with disruption caused by a UK-wide air traffic control failure.

The decision to authorise night flying was taken following a meeting attended by the National Air Traffic Service (NATS), the Civil Aviation Authority, airlines and airports, the BBC has reported.

Travellers from Northern Ireland have been left stranded across Europe as a result of delays and cancellations following an air traffic control glitch on Bank Holiday Monday.

Social media is awash with complaints from distressed tourists who have been forced to sleep on airport floors in European cities as a result of the ongoing flight disruption.

Passengers face flight delays following air traffic control issues

Some lucky travellers have, however, managed to make it back to Belfast.

EasyJet passenger Adele McGrogan was left stranded in Spain on Monday night following a lengthy delay which resulted in her flight being axed altogether.

The Newbridge native has predicted that the airline will be inundated with complaints following what she described as the disgusting way customers were treated.

We had to sit on the [aircraft] for four hours and then they told us we could get off and move into the terminal, she recalled.

They told us to go and pick up our bags and, when we got there, the bags didnt arrive.

We sat for seven hours and the bags didnt arrive. [There were] no EasyJet staff, nothing.

We contacted them, asked all the staff and crew [but] nobody knew what was going on.

Ms McGrogan eventually got her luggage back at 10pm on Monday, before being given a 9 food voucher and told to sort out her own accommodation.

She said customers of rival airlines were being given vouchers worth more than three times that amount, with staff taking care of hotel bookings.

It was ridiculous. There was no communication at all. It was disgusting, Ms McGrogan continued.

There will be a lot of complaints to EasyJet.

They handled it really badly. We understand it wasnt their fault, but there was no communication with us at all.

All the other airlines got their customers sorted, but we were left in limbo.

The stranded flyer did manage to check into a hotel at 11pm, before returning to the airport a few hours later.

Many passengers opted to sleep on the airport floor.

Josh Smyth was trying to return to Mallorca, where he lives, after enjoying a long weekend at home in Northern Ireland.

He has now been forced to take extra time off work as he continues to make his way back to the Spanish island.

Im not flying back until this evening. I have to fly from here [Belfast] to Liverpool and then from Liverpool to Mallorca, he explained.

But Im not quite sure about the final flight. It could still be delayed or cancelled.

Read more Travellers stranded after hundreds of flights cancelled amid UK-wide air traffic control failure

Mr Smyth described the experience as very frustrating, as he revealed he has been told he is not eligible for compensation.

Surrey mum Kimberley Ferguson said she was very lucky to get a hotel near Belfast International Airport on Monday night when her flight to London was cancelled.

She had been visiting family in Londonderry with her partner and two children before they scrambled to get a last-minute hotel room.

We were both due back at work today, she explained.

Its been an adventure.

Meanwhile, Hannah Cliff arrived in Belfast from Birmingham on Tuesday morning on a work trip.

However, she missed an important meeting due to the delays.

Our flight was delayed by an hour, but [it] wasnt showing on the board as a delay, she explained.

Our gate wasnt announced until 15 minutes after our flight was due to leave.

Hundreds of flights were cancelled on Monday after the National Air Traffic Services (Nats) was forced to implement traffic flow restrictions across the UK.

It said the measures were due to a technical issue that resulted in flight plan data having to be manually processed following the failure of an automatic system.

Aviation analysts have expressed fears that the knock-on effect could last for days, with many planes now in the wrong places, creating a backlog of passengers.

A spokesperson for Belfast International Airport warned travellers to expect disruption on Tuesday.

Further delays and cancellations can be expected today as airline schedules recover from the air traffic control technical issues, they said.

If you are due to travel, please contact your airline directly for information on your flight status.

However, Nats operations director Juliet Kennedy warned it will take some time for flights to return to normal as she confirmed the exact cause of the technical issue is under investigation.

There is nothing to suggest it was caused by a cyberattack.

Meanwhile, Transport Secretary Mark Harper described the glitch as the worst incident of its kind in nearly a decade and announced that an independent review will be carried out.

The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has also confirmed that an investigation into the fault is underway.

As part of our regulatory oversight of its activities, we continue to engage with Nats, and once its investigation is fully complete, an incident report will be provided to the UK Civil Aviation Authority, a spokesperson said.

EasyJet has been contacted for comment.
One man (33) has been arrested.

Police at the scene of a suspicious death on August 29th 2023 (Photo by Kevin Scott)

Police at the scene of a suspicious death in the Fallahogey Road area on August 29th 2023 (Photo by Kevin Scott)

Police at the scene of a suspicious death in the Fallahogey Road area on August 29th 2023 (Photo by Kevin Scott)

Police at the scene of a suspicious death in the Fallahogey Road area on August 29th 2023 (Photo by Kevin Scott)

Cornelius O'Neill (inset) was stabbed at his home in Kilrea (Main scene pic: Kevin Scott/Belfast Telegraph)

Police have named the man who died following a stabbing incident in Co Londonderry on Tuesday night as Cornelius ONeill (56).

Detectives from the PSNIs Major Investigation Team are continuing a murder investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death of Mr ONeill in the Tamlaght OCrilly area close to Kilrea on Tuesday August 29.

Murder investigation launched after man (56) is stabbed at Co Londonderry home

Detective Chief Inspector Neil McGuinness said: On Tuesday afternoon, just before 4.50pm, police received a report that a man had been stabbed.

Officers, along with colleagues from the Ambulance Service, attended a property in the Fallahogy Terrace area of the village. Sadly, the man, whom we can now name as Cornelius ONeill, was subsequently pronounced dead at the scene.

Mr ONeill was 56 years old and was from the Kilrea area.

Police at the scene of a suspicious death in the Fallahogey Road area on August 29th 2023 (Photo by Kevin Scott)

Detective Chief Inspector McGuinness continued: A 33-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of murder and remains in custody at this time. At this stage, we are not looking for any other suspects.

Our enquiries continue, and Im keen to reiterate our appeal for anyone with information to come forward. Please contact us on 101, quoting reference number 1304 of 29/08/23.

Information can also be provided to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org.

Mid Ulster District councillor Sean McPeake said the victims family and work colleagues had been left devastated by the incident.

"The local community is in shock at the news that a man has died in an incident in Fallahogy Terrace, the Sinn Fein representative said.

"My thoughts are with the mans family at this difficult time. I have spoken to a number of this mans work colleagues today who are absolutely devastated at this news.

A police murder investigation is underway, and I would call on anyone with any information which may help those inquiries to contact the PSNI.

East Derry MLA Cara Hunter has asked anyone with information to contact police.

She said: Very sad news coming from the wider Kilrea area tonight that there has been a death of a man in his 50s. My thoughts are with the family of the deceased.
One flight from NI was delayed by almost 11 hours and an NI woman missed her heart transplant check-up as the situation was dealt with

People wait near the EasyJet check-in desks at Gatwick Airport on August 28, 2023 in Crawley, United Kingdom. (Photo by Carl Court/Getty Images)

Hundreds of flights to and from the UK are estimated to have been cancelled this bank holiday, leaving passengers stranded, after an air traffic control failure.

By Monday afternoon, 232 flights departing UK airports had been cancelled and 271 arriving flights, according to aviation analytics firm Cirium.

The traffic control failure that has caused flights to be delayed and cancelled across the country has been resolved.

However, delays and cancellations may persist.

Belfast International Airport has released a statement advising customers to contract their airlines for the latest flight information amid continued delays and cancellations.

It said: National Air Traffic Control (NATS) have fixed the earlier technical issue that resulted in air traffic flow restrictions across the UK. However there are still delays and cancellations to flights so if you are due to travel today please contact your airline for the latest flight information.

Belfast City Airport released a similar statement, which read: The advice for passengers remains the same as earlier in the day - they should check the live status of their flight directly with their airline before travelling to the airport.

The National Air Traffic Services (NATS), the country's leading provider of air traffic control services, said at 3.15pm it had "identified and remedied" the technical issue affecting air traffic control systems and is working with airlines and airports to support the flights affected.

Long delays and flight cancellations have been reported at Northern Irelands airports after National Air Traffic Control (NATC) reported a technical issue this afternoon.

Major UK airlines such as Tui and BA have warned of "significant delays" for passengers amid changes to schedules.

The NATS statement added: "We are now working closely with airlines and airports to manage the flights affected as efficiently as possible. "Our engineers will be carefully monitoring the system's performance as we return to normal operations.

"The flight planning issue affected the system's ability to automatically process flight plans, meaning that flight plans had to be processed manually which cannot be done at the same volume, hence the requirement for traffic flow restrictions.

"Our priority is always to ensure that every flight in the UK remains safe and we are sincerely sorry for the disruption this is causing. Please contact your airline for information on how this may affect your flight."

Flights will remain "significantly disrupted" for the rest of Monday, despite the technical issue being resolved, a spokesman for Heathrow Airport said. British Airways told passengers on Monday that no flights would take off until 6pm and all check-in desks were closed.

A Cookstown woman has missed a check-up following a heart transplant after her flight was cancelled amid a UK-wide traffic control failure.

Read more Passengers stranded as flights cancelled after air traffic control failure

Serena Hamilton was due to fly to Newcastle for a hospital appointment.

Speaking on BBC Radio Ulster, she said: Its just terrible. Its happening to everybody but for somebody like me thats had a heart transplant, I cant get anywhere because of this whole disruption.

She added that she had phoned Easyjet to confirm that she should travel to the airport amid the traffic control issue. When she arrived at the airport, she found her flight had been cancelled.

So thats me, I have to go back home again, she added,

Im meant to be attending Newcastle Freeman Hospital tomorrow morning at 7.30am for a CT angiogram and Im not getting now. I have to inform the hospital.

Delays of almost 11 hours have been reported on some flights leaving Belfast International Airport, with the 2.35pm departure for Paris delayed by 10 hours and 57 minutes.

The airport said the delays were due to a UK-wide issue.

"National Air Traffic Control (NATS) are experiencing a technical issue across UK airspace, said a spokesperson.

"As a result traffic flow restrictions have been implemented resulting in flight delays UK wide. If you are due to travel today please check with your airline for latest information on your flight status.

Meanwhile, patience is wearing out among airline passengers left stranded on runways while waiting for the all-clear to enter UK airspace, a Belfast man caught up in the UK-wide air traffic control chaos has said.

Belfast man John McVicars Jet2 flight was due to leave Alicante for Belfast at 12.10pm local time, but has now been delayed until at least 6.30pm.

"Wed the flight boarded and everything else and were settled down, he told the Belfast Telegraph.

"The captain came on and said there was an issue with air traffic control in London and he came back about 10 minutes later and said they had a technical issue.

"He came back on again and said hed been given a slot of 10.30pm but that was then moved back to 6.30pm. From what I can gather, its chaos.

Airlines warn of delays as UK air traffic control hit by technical fault

Mr McVicar praised the response of the airlines cabin crew, but said patience among the passengers was beginning to wear out.

"Weve been physically on the plane for over three hours. Were just sitting here, he said.

"One person has already walked off and there were another few people looking to try and catch another flight, but it was explained to them that they couldnt because its affecting every airline.

"The cabin crew have been great, theyve been around with water and snacks but eventually their time is going to run out and that will be the next obstacle.

"The pilot had said they were in touch with the company to put additional fuel on board in the event that they were going to avoid London air space."

The NATS has confirmed it is experiencing a technical issue but stressed UK airspace has not been closed. In an update posted to its website at 2.20pm, NATS said flight plans were having to be input manually.

"This mornings technical issue is affecting our ability to automatically process flight plans, said a spokesperson.

"Until our engineers have resolved this, flight plans are being input manually which means we cannot process them at the same volume, hence we have applied traffic flow restrictions. Our technical experts are looking at all possible solutions to rectify this as quickly as possible.

Our priority is ensuring every flight in the UK remains safe and doing everything we can to minimise the impact. Please contact your airline for information on how this may affect your flight. We are sincerely sorry for the disruption this is causing.

No information about the cause of the fault or the timeframe for fixing it has yet been announced.

Belfast City Airport said a planning system technical issue was behind the disruption.

"Due to an ongoing UK-wide flight planning system technical issue, disruption to flights is highly likely, said a spokesperson.

Whilst this issue is out of our control we are advising all passengers to check the status of their flight with their airline before travelling to the airport.

Dublin Airport has also advised passengers to check the status of their flight with the airline before travelling.

"Air Traffic Control issues in the UK today are resulting in delays and cancellations to some flights into and out of Dublin Airport, said a spokesperson.

"We advise all passengers due to travel today to check the status of their flight with their airline in advance of travelling.

Meanwhile, Irish minister of state for transport Jack Chambers has warned of a "major" knock-on impact on flights to and from Ireland as a consequence of the UK air traffic control fault.

Speaking to RTE Radio One, Mr Chambers said: "There's traffic flow restrictions have been introduced to maintain safety in the sky and it will have significant impacts on passengers flying in and out of Dublin, and there are multiple slot restrictions.

"So, we'd encourage customers to contact their airline for an update but it will have a major impact on Irish travel because, obviously, the nature and the proximity to UK space.

"There will be an impact and delays of several hours for many passengers and we'd encourage them to contact their airlines."
A former Mayor of Ards and North Down has stepped down from her role as an Alliance party councillor.

Karen Douglas joined the council in 2016, having been co-opted to replace Stuart Anderson.

Speaking on Twitter, she said it was her great honour to serve the people of Bangor Central and wider Borough.

I have met so many wonderful people who inspired me. It's time to take stock and consider the future, she added.

In a statement on the Alliance partys website, she said: While I am stepping back from my role as an elected representative, I remain a great supporter of Alliance, my Council team colleagues and our MLAs and MP.

"My commitment to achieving the best for our Borough, our city and our society remains, and I will continue to work towards a peaceful and reconciled society as a private citizen.

She noted that one of the highlights of her time as Mayor was welcoming Princess Anne to Banger to have its city status conferred, and to give Snow Patrols Gary Lightbody and the Irish Guards Freedom of the Borough.

She said: Those memories will live with me the rest of my life.

Alliance North Down MP Stephen Farry also commented, thanking Karen for her service as councillor.

Karen has an impressive record on Ards and North Down Borough Council, bringing motions to increase openness and transparency around full Council and Committee meetings, securing an ambitious tree planting regime, lobbying for the redevelopment of Queens Parade and promoting biodiversity across the Borough.

Her successful term as Mayor will particularly stand out and my thanks go to her for the dignity, dedication and enthusiasm she brought to the role. I send her my best wishes in this new stage of her life and I am confident her replacement will continue her stellar record on Council."
Korean actor Song Kang-ho, who stars in the new movie "Cobweb," speaks during a publicity event in Seoul, Aug. 29, to promote the movie that is set to hit local screens in Korea in September. Yonhap



Veteran actor Song Kang-ho returns as a filmmaker from the 1970s who's obsessed with creating a masterpiece in the upcoming black comedy film "Cobweb," directed by auteur Kim Jee-woon.



The 2022 winner of the Best Actor for his role in "Broker" plays the role of Kim Yeol, who reshoots the end of his latest film out of his desire to create something unique but faces chaos due to uncooperative actors and repressive censorship.



Song, who also drew acclaim for his role in Bong Joon-ho's Oscar-winning satire film "Parasite" (2019), said he enjoyed taking on his first role as a moviemaker in the film-within-a-film.



"I enjoyed standing behind the camera and giving directions to other actors. I acted the role in my own way," Song said in a press conference.



It marked Song's fifth collaboration with Kim, following "The Age of Shadows" (2016), "The Good, The Bad, The Weird" (2008), "The Foul King" (2000) and "The Quiet Family" (1998).



Song said "Cobweb" reflects Kim's hilarious and witty humor shown in his early comedy films, including "The Foul King" and "The Quiet Family."



"The film is entertaining and delightful as it deals with conflicts and clashes between diverse characters," Song said. "Kim Yeol has artistic desire and talent but struggles, not knowing what to do with his pent-up energy. I think he is a representative figure who reflects such desires within us."



Director Kim said the period satire film transforms from a melodrama to a thriller to a disaster film to a horror, portraying the protagonist's ironic situation.



"In the film, set in the 1970s, the director, captivated by the delusion that it could become a masterpiece if only the ending is reshot, gathers the exhausted cast and crew after it's all over and shoots for two days, creating total chaos," Kim said.



The director said he incorporated some of his favorite songs from the 1970s and retro fashion and shot the film-within-a-film scenes in black and white to portray the signature cinematography of the time and evoke an eerie sensation.



"Cobweb" premiered at the Cannes Film Festival's Midnight Screening section in May and is set to hit local theaters Sept. 20. (Yonhap)


The Foyle MP has written to the chair of the Culture, Media and Sport committee.

SDLP leader Colum Eastwood has contacted a House of Commons committee to relay his concerns over serious editorial and governance issues within BBC Northern Ireland.

The Foyle MP has written to the chair of the Culture, Media and Sport committee, Dame Caroline Dinenage MP to ask for an investigation, the BBC has reported.

MPs on the committee can hold inquiries, including public hearings. They recently questioned ITV chief executive Dame Carolyn McCall following Phillip Schofields departure from the channel.

They have also previously investigated the appointment of former BBC chair Richard Sharp.

Mr Eastwood says he believes a range of areas which have come to light within BBC NI in recent months could contribute in a significant way to the erosion of confidence.

Amid the concerns raised by Mr Eastwood are recent allegations about presenter Stephen Nolan.

On August 15 the Irish News reported Nolan had shared sexually explicit images of reality TV star Stephen Bear to members of his production team on WhatsApp in 2016. Bear was jailed earlier this year after being found guilty of voyeurism and sharing private sexual videos without consent.

This led to bullying and a harassment complaint being filed against Nolan by one of the team, who said the initial photograph was sent in a deliberate attempt to undermine and embarrass me, while a second image was sent causing further distress.

Stephen Nolan

The decision issued following an investigation into the complaint in 2018, seen by the Belfast Telegraph, stated that none of the Nolan team supported the allegations made and in fact were very supportive of the presenter and enjoyed working on the programme.

No evidence of bullying or harassment by Nolan was found, but the presenter was found to have a case to answer over sending the explicit images. This was managed internally.

Whilst the specific outcome of this process is private and confidential to Stephen, I can confirm that appropriate action has been taken,, an investigation decision notice from the BBC stated.

Mr Eastwoods letter has urged the committee to give active attention to the issue and laid out a number of areas he believes they should look at.

Concerns were raised around editorial decision making leading to a perceived imbalance in the output of individual programming and the scale of platforming offered to fringe groups that far outweighs their representation in Northern Ireland.

Mr Eastwood also highlighted governance concerns relating to the management of independent production companies, the commissioning of programmes and tender processes, as well as the morale and organisational culture that have led to senior figures, particularly women, leaving the organisation following legal settlements".

The letter said there was a perceived unwillingness by BBC NIs management to address the catalogue of matters that threaten to undermine its integrity.

A BBC spokesperson said: We would welcome any further opportunity to talk with the SDLP about the BBC's work and the difference that it makes, and how fairness underpins our workplace policies, procedures and commissioning arrangements.

"We are accountable for what we do and ambitious for the service that we provide.

"All of this work is informed by the same editorial values and aspires to the same standard of excellence.

"BBC Northern Ireland succeeds on the basis of its hard-won editorial record, reputation and independence - none of which we take for granted."
Police and railway workers near the scene in Balderton, near Newark-on-Trent (Danny Lawson/PA)

A police officer who was hit by a train while trying to save a distressed man on the tracks has died, Nottinghamshire Police said.

Sergeant Graham Saville, a response officer based at Newark Police Station, suffered serious injuries after he was hit in Balderton, near Newark-on-Trent, on August 24.

The 46-year-old was taken to Queens Medical Centre and died on Tuesday, according to the force.

Chief Constable Kate Meynell said: Today is a day of mourning for the entire police family.

Graham was a hugely respected and popular colleague and his death in the line of duty has come as an enormous shock to us all.

Our hearts and deepest condolences go out to his family and we will do everything we can to support them through this unimaginably devastating time.

It is impossible to put into words how devastating this news is for everyone who loved and respected Graham.

On Thursday, he went to work to protect the people of Nottinghamshire from harm, and it is testament to his bravery and dedication as a police officer that he was fatally injured while attempting to save another mans life.

His service and sacrifice will never be forgotten.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak joined the tributes to Sgt Savilles bravery and posted on X, previously known as Twitter: Im saddened to learn of the passing of Sergeant Saville. It is a testament to his bravery that he died in the line of duty and a terrible reminder of the work the police do every day to keep us safe.

My thoughts are with his family, friends and the whole of Nottinghamshire Police Force.

Nottinghamshire Police said flags across the force will be flown at half-mast as a mark of respect.

Head of the College of Policing, Chief Constable Andy Marsh, said: This is devastating news and my thoughts and condolences are with this brave officers family, friends and colleagues at this very sad time.

It is a tragic reminder of the risks and bravery shown every day by our police officers and staff to keep the public safe.

Policing minister Chris Philp posted on X: Im deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Sgt Graham Saville, following his brave work to save someone elses life on a railway line. He selflessly made the ultimate sacrifice. We will remember him. Our thoughts are with Grahams family & colleagues.

Robert Jenrick, MP for Newark, whose constituency includes Balderton, also used X to pay tribute to the sergeants exceptional bravery.

He said: Sergeant Graham Saville selflessly gave his life to save someone else. All of us in Newark salute his exceptional bravery and self sacrifice, which wont be forgotten.

My thoughts are with his partner and children and all his colleagues at @nottspolice.

Nottinghamshire Police Federation branch chairman, Simon Riley, said the sergeants death will resonate deeply throughout policing and added: Graham was the epitome of what we should all strive to be as police officers and his selfless act of bravery in trying to save the life of another human being will not be lost on any of us.

His selfless sacrifice will never be forgotten.

The man on the railway lines, 29, sustained electricity-inflicted injuries and was taken to hospital where he remains, but his injuries are not believed to be life-changing.

British Transport Police (BTP) is leading an ongoing investigation into the incident.

British Transport Police (BTP) is leading the investigation (Danny Lawson/PA)

Assistant Chief Constable Allan Gregory expressed his sincere and heartfelt condolences and said BTP will be working alongside the Coroners Office as its investigation progresses.

He added: It is one of the darkest days in policing to lose an officer in the line of duty, and Sergeant Savilles loved ones will be at the forefront of our minds throughout our enquiries.

Sgt Savilles family has requested that their privacy be respected, Nottinghamshire Police said.

Ms Meynell also paid tribute to officers who attended the scene, some of whom provided immediate medical assistance while waiting for an ambulance.

This was a deeply traumatic incident for those officers and we have a dedicated team providing support to them, she said.

When a colleague dies in the line of duty the shockwaves and sadness reverberate throughout the policing family and we will all deeply mourn our colleague.
The mural dedicated to Lyra McKee in Orlando which was defaced

A mural dedicated to Northern Ireland journalist Lyra McKee has been vandalised in the US state of Florida.

A swastika and snipers target was accompanied by anti-LGBTQ and anti-trans graffiti on a mural of Lyra, who died after being shot in the head during clashes between dissident republican rioters and police in the Creggan area of Derry in April 2019.

A clean-up of the mural has since been organised by volunteers at Orlandos LGBTQ+ Center. Community activists in Zebra Youth said on social media: We will not allow the recent vandalism to our building by a hate group to deter us.

Zebra Youth stands strong in our dedication to empowering LGBTQ+ youth to become healthy, productive, and self-sufficient individuals. We will never allow hate to win!

The mural was unveiled in 2019 to honour Lyra, who had travelled to Florida in 2017 as part of an international exchange programme in the wake of a mass shooting in Orlandos LGBT Pulse Nightclub in 2016 in which 49 people were killed.

The mural shows an image of Lyra inside an rainbow-coloured heart with the message Keep hanging on kid. Its worth it. I love you from her letter to her 14-year-old self.

Sarah Gal, executive director at the World Affairs Council of Central Florida, one of the programmes organisers, met Lyra on the trip and said that she radiated warmth and kindness.

Following Lyras death Mrs Gal proposed a resolution to the City of Orlando to honour her. When that passed she thought of the mural as a permanent tribute to Lyra.

Lyra had dedicated a TEDx talk at Stormont to the victims of the 2016 nightclub shooting and all LGBT people who died by suicide.

Lyras sister Nichola McKee Corner told the Belfast Telegraph in 2019 that the family were amazed by the powerful message and symbolism of the mural. She added that the mural was absolutely beautiful.

Its a really fitting tribute, it really captures Lyra and what she stood for, love, tolerance, joy and happiness, she said.
A farewell ceremony for Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin, who was killed in a plane crash last week, took place behind closed doors, a statement said (Alexander Zemlianichenko/AP/PA)

A farewell ceremony for Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin, who was killed in a plane crash last week, took place behind closed doors, his spokespeople said on Tuesday in a short statement on social media.

Those who wish to bid their farewell to the mercenary leader should go to the Porokhovskoye cemetery in St Petersburg, his home town, the statement said.

Earlier media reports about the funeral mentioned other cemeteries in the city as likely sites for the burial, which has been shrouded in secrecy.

Yevgeny Prigozhin was aboard a plane that crashed north of Moscow on August 23, killing all 10 people on board (Prigozhin Press Service via AP/PA)

It was not clear from the statement if Mr Prigozhin has already been buried or if it was still to happen.

Earlier, the Kremlin said Russian President Vladimir Putin was not planning to attend a funeral for Mr Prigozhin, who challenged the Russian leaders authority in an armed rebellion in June.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov would not give any details about the burial because it was a private family matter.

The tight secrecy and confusion surrounding the funeral of Mr Prigozhin and his top lieutenants reflected a dilemma faced by the Kremlin amid swirling speculation that the crash was likely a vendetta for his mutiny.

While it tried to avoid any pomp-filled ceremony for the man branded by Mr Putin as a traitor for his June 23-24 rebellion, the Kremlin could not afford to denigrate Mr Prigozhin, who was given Russias highest award for leading Wagner forces in Ukraine and was idolised by many of the countrys hawks.

Mr Putins comments on Mr Prigozhins death reflected that careful stand. He noted last week that Wagner leaders made a significant contribution to the fighting in Ukraine and described Mr Prigozhin as a talented businessman and a man of difficult fate who had made serious mistakes in life.

Sergei Markov, a pro-Kremlin political analyst, noted that Mr Prigozhin has become a legendary figure for his supporters who are increasingly critical of the authorities.

Prigozhins funeral raises an issue of communication between the bureaucratic Russian government system that does not have much political potential and politically active patriotic segment of the Russian public, Mr Markov said.

The countrys top criminal investigation agency, the Investigative Committee, officially confirmed Mr Prigozhins death on Sunday.

The committee did not say what might have caused Mr Prigozhins business jet to plummet from the sky minutes after taking off from Moscow for St Petersburg. Just before the crash, Mr Prigozhin had returned from a trip to Africa, where he sought to expand Wagner Groups activities.

People mourn by the coffin of the Wagner Groups logistics chief Valery Chekalov during a funeral at the Severnoye cemetery in St Petersburg, Russia, on Tuesday (Dmitri Lovetsky/AP/PA)

Also on Tuesday, a funeral was held at St Petersburgs Northern Cemetery for Wagners logistics chief Valery Chekalov, who died in the August 23 crash alongside Mr Prigozin.

Mr Prigozhins second-in-command, Dmitry Utkin, a retired military intelligence officer who gave the mercenary group its name based on his own nom de guerre, was also among the 10 people killed in the crash.

A preliminary US intelligence assessment concluded that an intentional explosion caused the plane to crash, and Western officials have pointed to a long list of Mr Putins foes who have been assassinated.

The Kremlin rejected Western allegations the president was behind the crash as an absolute lie.

The crash came exactly two months after the brutal and profane mercenary boss launched a rebellion against the Russian military leadership.

Mr Prigozhin ordered his mercenaries to take over the military headquarters in the southern city of Rostov-on-Don and then began a march on Moscow. They downed several military aircraft, killing more than a dozen pilots.

Mr Putin denounced the revolt as treason and vowed to punish its perpetrators but hours later struck a deal that saw Mr Prigozhin ending the mutiny in exchange for amnesty and permission for him and his troops to move to Belarus.

The fate of Wagner, which until recently played a prominent role in Russias military campaign in Ukraine and was involved in a number of African and Middle Eastern countries, is uncertain.

Mr Putin said Wagner fighters could sign a contract with the Russian military, move to Belarus or retire from service. Several thousand have deployed to Belarus, where they are in a camp southeast of the capital, Minsk.
Russian President Vladimir Putin is not planning to attend the funeral of mercenary chief Yevgeny Prigozhin following his death in a plane crash, the Kremlin said on Tuesday.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov would not say where or when the leader of the Wagner Group would be buried, although some Russian media suggested it could take place as early as Tuesday in Mr Prigozhins home city of St Petersburg.

St Petersburgs Fontanka news outlet and some other media said the 62-year-old is likely to be buried in the Serafimovskoe Cemetery, which has previously been used for high-profile military burials.

On Tuesday, heavy police cordons encircled the cemetery, where Mr Putins parents are also buried.

An increased police presence was also reported at some other city cemeteries.

People stand next to an informal street memorial to the members of the Wagner Group who were killed in the plane crash (Alexander Zemlianichenko/AP)

Later in the day, a funeral was held at St Petersburgs Northern Cemetery for Wagners logistics chief, Valery Chekalov, who also died in the crash, according to Fontanka.

The countrys top criminal investigation agency, the Investigative Committee, officially confirmed Mr Prigozhins death on Sunday.

The committee did not say what might have caused his business jet to plummet from the sky minutes after taking off from Moscow en route to St Petersburg.

Just before the crash, Mr Prigozhin had returned from a trip to Africa, where he had sought to expand the Wagner Groups activities.

A preliminary US intelligence assessment concluded that an intentional explosion caused the plane to go down, and Western officials have pointed to a long list of Putin opponents who have been assassinated.

The Kremlin rejected Western allegations that the Russian president was behind the crash as an absolute lie.

The crash came exactly two months after Mr Prigozhin launched a rebellion against the Russian military leadership, leading his mercenaries to take over the military headquarters in the southern city of Rostov-on-Don and then launching a march on Moscow.

They downed several military aircraft, killing more than a dozen pilots.

A portrait of Yevgeny Prigozhin near the Kremlin in Moscow (Alexander Zemlianichenko/AP)

Mr Putin denounced the revolt as treason and vowed to punish its perpetrators but hours later struck a deal that saw Mr Prigozhin ending the mutiny in exchange for amnesty and permission for him and his troops to move to Belarus.

Mr Prigozhins second-in-command, Dmitry Utkin, was also killed in the plane crash.

Mr Utkin, a retired military intelligence officer, baptised the group with his nom de guerre and led the groups military operations.

The fate of Wagner, which until recently played a prominent role in Russias military campaign in Ukraine and was involved in a number of African and Middle Eastern countries, is uncertain.

Mr Putin said Wagner fighters could sign a contract with the Russian military, move to Belarus or retire from service.

Several thousand have deployed to Belarus, where they are in a camp south-east of the capital, Minsk.
Igor Girkin also know as Igor Strelkov, the former military chief for Russia-backed separatists in eastern Ukraine, sits in a glass cage in a courtroom at the Moscows City Court (Alexander Zemlianichenko/AP/PA)

A Moscow court has ruled that a prominent hard-line nationalist who accused Russian President Vladimir Putin of weakness and indecision in Ukraine should remain in prison on charges of extremism.

Igor Strelkov, a retired security officer who led Moscow-backed separatists in eastern Ukraine in 2014 and was convicted of murder in the Netherlands for his role in the downing of a Malaysia Airlines passenger jet that year, has argued that a total mobilisation is needed for Russia to achieve victory.

He has previously criticised Mr Putin as a nonentity and a cowardly mediocrity.

Miroslava Reginskaya, wife of Igor Strelkov, the former military chief for Russia-backed separatists in eastern Ukraine, talks to reporters outside a Moscow court (Alexander Zemlianichenko/AP/PA)

Moscows District Court ordered Strelkov, 52, whose real name is Igor Girkin, to remain in custody until September 18.

Strelkov was arrested on July 21 and faces charges of making calls for extremist activities. He could receive five years in prison if convicted.

Strelkovs legal team had argued for him to be held under house arrest, citing health issues.

Strelkovs wife, Miroslava Reginskaya, speaking after the ruling, said: The court decision is unfair and we will appeal.

Strelkovs arrest has been interpreted as a signal that the Kremlin has toughened its approach with hawkish critics after the abortive rebellion by Yevgeny Prigozhins Wagner mercenary company in June.

Strelkov was arrested nearly a month after a short-lived mutiny launched by Prigozhin that saw Wagner troops capture military headquarters in the southern city of Rostov-on-Don and then drive as close as 200 kilometres (125 miles) to Moscow to demand the ousting of Russias top military leaders.

Prigozhin was killed on August 23 when the plane he was travelling in crashed. US intelligence has said the crash was likely intentional and multiple Western leaders have suggested Mr Putin was behind it.

The revolt posed the most serious threat to Mr Putins 23-year rule, eroding his authority and exposing government weakness.

Like Prigozhin, Strelkov harshly criticised Russias military leaders for incompetence, but he also denounced the Wagner chief and described his action as treason and a major threat to the Russian state.

The two repeatedly had traded insults, and Strelkovs supporters said a criminal inquiry into his statements has been initiated by one of Wagners mercenaries.
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Parents do their best to raise their children with a godly worldview and good moral values to grow into upstanding citizens and society contributors when they enter the world. However, sometimes, children want to live their own lives, so the relationship between child and parent becomes strained.

The problem intensifies when a child has left Christianity. Whether they were wounded by leadership, hurt by church attendees, or robbed of a service opportunity, children leave Christianity for many reasons. But when the child leaves the faith, parents feel like theres a hole in their hearts. Proverbs 22:6 reminds us to train a child in how they should go, and they wont depart from it when they get older.

Still, in todays world, its more probable that a child will leave their faith and the church, making strained relationships almost non-existent. Barnas research indicates that 59 percent of young Christians disconnect from church life after age 15, either permanently or for an extended period, which can be devastating for both parent and child. Parents can feel like failures because their children didnt support their faith and leave a legacy for generations. Despite being an adult, the child can feel like a disappointment for not following the faith and meeting their parents expectations.

What should a parent do? The instinct might be to negotiate or force the child to submit to God, but thats a recipe for disaster if the parent wants to continue a relationship with their child. Here are some tips on how parents can maintain a relationship with a child whos left Christianity.

Keep them in your prayers.

This may sound simple, but prayer is the best weapon in restoring a broken relationship. David cried out to God in sorrow, Paul submitted to Gods authority, and Abraham sacrificed his child to follow Gods will. His will is that no one should die, and He never forces it on anyone. The pain of free will is that people can make their own choices, sometimes to their detriment. While it must break Gods heart to see one of His children leave Him, He never chases them. He lets them come to Him out of their choosing.

In the same way, you should allow your children to do the same, as painful as that may be. Pour out your heart to God. Cry on His shoulder and tell Him how hard it is. He will keep you in your pain and comfort you as you grieve. Your child may never return, but you can rest knowing youre not alone. God will always walk with you during every part of your journey.

Celebrate them.

You might not like their choices, but theyre still your child and need your encouraging words. Try your best not to tear them down and build them up instead. Showcase their good qualities. For example, if they achieve a dream, celebrate them. Praise their successes and accomplishments. Help them recognize that your love isnt predicated on what they do but that you love them for who they are. God does it for us; you can do the same as parents. This is the best way to show Christ to your unbelieving children.

Try to understand them.

The last thing your grown child needs is a lecture about why they should follow the faith. Instead of giving advice and lecturing them, have a heart-to-heart talk with them. Take them to their favorite coffee shop or restaurant and try to simply listen. Practice active listening by not only hearing them but understanding them. Listen for what theyre saying but also what theyre not saying and read between the lines.

Watch their non-verbal communication. For example, arms crossed across their chest show a defensive posture. However, hands resting on a table suggest a welcoming, open stance. Try to get them to express themselves by repeating what they said, nodding appropriately, and asking clarifying questions when necessary. Even if your child doesnt return to the faith, listening validates them as humans and as an essential part of your life.

Set an example.

In asserting their independence, an adult child might tell you that you cant discuss faith in front of them. You can respect their decision to walk away, but your child cant tell you what to do. You might not have the same influence over how they live their lives, but they cant tell you how to live yours. Dont stop living out your beliefs because they dont want to continue in the faith. Instead, keep living in your faith as your lifes center and focus. They may not like hearing about the latest worship song or sermon, but your words may continue to plant seeds they might not acknowledge. The Bible tells us, specifically in 1 Peter 3:15, that we should always be prepared to answer everyone who asks for the reason we have hope.

Embrace them.

If your child returns to Christianity, make a point to welcome them back. In the parable about the lost son, the father doesnt chase his son. Instead, he lets him go off to live as he wants on his terms. Despite knowing whats best, he allows his son to come to that conclusion and return when he wants. That way, his entire heart was in his decision. The father made a fool of himself by welcoming him back to the family.

You dont want your kids to return to Christianity because they think itll make you happy. God desires an intimate relationship because we want to, not because Hes making us. Being a prodigal parent is challenging, but solving the issue independently without God is even more difficult. Try to lean into God and His understanding of the situation. God knows things we dont and has the ultimate control over the situation. As long as your child lives, theres a chance for redemption and repentance both with you and with God.

Most importantly, dont abandon your relationship with God. Read your Bible and surround yourself with people who will cry with you and listen to your pain. They may be able to give advice when you need it. Ask God and tell Him everything. You may or may not have a prodigal who returns home, but you can have a deep, vibrant relationship with God.
From left, human rights activists Thanaporn Saleephol, Puttanee Kangkun and Angkhana Neelapaijit pose after their acquittal, Aug. 29, 2023.

A Thai court on Tuesday acquitted three human rights defenders of criminal defamation charges in a case that activists say highlights how companies and officials are using judicial harassment to try to silence public criticism.

The Bangkok South Criminal Court found Angkhana Neelapaijit, Puttanee Kangkun and Thanaporn Saleephol not guilty of criminally defaming Thammakaset Company Ltd., which sued the trio for posting messages on social media that expressed solidarity with rights activists facing lawsuits from the firm.

I welcome todays ruling upholding our rights. But regardless of the result, the last four years have been painful for each of us, said Puttanee, director at The Fort, an affiliate organization of Fortify Rights. Thammakasets harassment consumed our time, resources and spirits.

The case against the women stemmed from an investigation into allegations of labor abuse at a Thammakaset chicken farm in Lop Buri province in 2016. Employees from Myanmar alleged the company forced them to work for more than 20 hours a day and deducted money from their salaries.

The provincial labor office found Thammakaset guilty and ordered it to repay the workers 1.7 million baht (U.S. $48,200).

But the company then launched criminal complaints against individuals who spoke up about the abuses and later against rights defenders who showed solidarity with them.

Since 2016, Thammakaset has filed 39 criminal and civil cases against 23 defendants  including activists, workers and journalists  for alleged defamation of the company, according to the International Federation for Human Rights.

The complaints against Angkhana, Puttanee and Thanaporn focused on 30 posts or re-posts on social media that contained messages supporting fellow human rights defenders. Many of them had links to a report and video published online by Fortify Rights about Thammakaset.

Chanchai Permpol, the owner of Thammakaset Farm, about 160 km (100 miles) north of Bangkok, said in 2016 he took legal action to defend his hard-earned reputation.

Though the verdict is a small victory for workers rights advocates in Thailand, few of those involved in the case are celebrating.

I don't feel it's a victory. I feel nothing because we should not have been sued at all, said Angkhana. The effects cannot be quantified  the time wasted, lawyer fees paid. The case does not end there but can be appealed to the Supreme Court.

For rights activists, the bigger issue is the continued use of Strategic Lawsuit Against Public Participation, known as SLAPP suits, to silence criticism from civil society in Thailand.

Puttanee said the Thai government should immediately repeal criminal defamation provisions in the legal code, which allowed businesses like Thammakaset to engage in judicial harassment.

In March, the National Human Rights Commission of Thailand released a report which recommended that the Thai government enact a law to prevent SLAPP suits and ensure human rights defenders receive adequate protection from SLAPP.

Rights advocates say the government must act now to safeguard free speech.

Thai authorities should ensure cases of judicial harassment are not allowed to proceed, said Amy Smith, executive director at Fortify Rights. Decriminalizing defamation would be a significant step for Thailand to demonstrate its commitment to preventing judicial harassment.
Uyghurs Yusufu Mieraili (left) and Adem Karadag, suspects in the August 2015 bombing of the Erawan Shrine in Bangkok, are escorted by a prison officer as they leave court in the Thai capital, March 2, 2020.

After appearing in court in a wheelchair as their trial resumed Tuesday, one of two Uyghur men suspected in a deadly bombing in Bangkok said that his eight years of confinement had taken a toll on his health.

Adem Karadag and co-defendant Yusufu Mieraili have been incarcerated since they were arrested within two weeks of the Aug. 17, 2015, attack at a Buddhist shrine, and they returned to court on Tuesday after a nine-month hiatus in the case, which is still only in the prosecution phase.

While Mieraili walked into court, Karadag needed a wheelchair as the two defendants returned to hear prosecution testimony.

I saw my weight drop from 57 to more than 40 kg (125 to more than 88 pounds) because the prison does not have halal food for me to eat, Karadag told BenarNews through an interpreter at the courthouse after Tuesdays deliberations.

I am allergic to foods that have pork in them. I wish the prison would give me halal foods.

Their trial, which has been delayed and disrupted over the years, had to be paused yet again in late 2022 after Mierailis lawyer, Jamroen Panonpakakorn, fractured his leg in an accident.

Karadag and Mieraili have been jailed at the militarys Lak Si temporary detention center since their arrest following the attack at the Erawan Shrine, which is popular with Chinese tourists in Bangkok. The blast, which killed 20 people and injured more than 100, occurred weeks after Thai authorities forcibly sent almost 100 Uyghur Muslims to China.

The defendants raised the same issue about the lack of halal food in prison in January 2022, telling BenarNews at the time that they were being fed pork. They also had not been permitted to contact relatives or allowed time in the prison yard.

A human rights activist who assisted the Uyghurs expressed concern about the pairs health.

I am shocked by how sick they look. Im afraid they might die before the verdict.  I wish the prison would allow a doctor to give them medical checkups because Im concerned about Karadags digestive system, Chalida Tajaroensuk, director of the Peoples Empowerment Foundation, a Thai NGO, told BenarNews.

Chuchart Kanpai, an attorney who represents Karadag, said the trial appeared to be a long way from being finished, noting that prosecutors had listed 400 potential witnesses. It was unclear if that list would be cut.

The trial may take about five years, Chuchart Kanpai told BenarNews. In the past, I brought halal food to them in jail because the prison does not provide them. They want to be jailed at a normal prison, but I feel the [military] prison suits them better because its not crowded.

Testimony hones in on cellphone

In November 2022, police Lt. Gen. Kamthorn Uncharoen, who served as chief of the bomb squad at the time of the explosion, testified that searchers found black powder and flash powder during a search of the suspects apartments. Both items can be used in bomb making.

Kanpai then challenged the admissibility of the police officials testimony, claiming the military had searched the apartments ahead of the police.

Back in session on Tuesday, police Col. Thanaset Udom-iam, who served as chief investigator, testified that officials found a cell phone belonging to one of the suspects that had photos of bombs stored in it.

The only witness to testify, he did not say whose phone had the pictures.

The trial is to run through Friday and resume from Dec. 12 to 15.

Karadag and Mieraili were charged in military court following their arrests, but saw the case moved to the Southern Bangkok Criminal Court after Prayuth Chan-o-cha, the army general and junta chief who became prime minister after leading a coup in 2014, was elected to the office in 2019.

The defendants, who identified as Uyghurs from Urumqi in the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region in China, had previously pleaded not guilty in both the military and civilian courts. They could face execution if convicted of charges, which include premeditated killing and possession of explosives.

Uyghurs are Turkic-speaking Muslims who mostly live in the Xinjiang region of China but are also spread across Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan and Turkey. They have been leaving China in large numbers to escape alleged persecution and repression by Chinese authorities.

Delays

The original military trial got off to a slow start over the lack of qualified courtroom interpreters.

Since then, a lawyer and a human rights advocate assisting the Uyghurs said that Karadag could not speak Chinese and would prefer a Uyghur-speaking translator, while Mieraili could communicate in English, but not fluently.

Years after their arrest, the Uyghurs met an interpreter proposed by the Chinese Embassy in Bangkok and signed documents accepting the arrangement. The interpreter was selected in August 2021 but was not able to travel to Thailand until the civil trial started in November 2022 because of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The headquarters of Financial Supervisory Service (FSS) in Yeouido, Seoul / Newsis



Korean banks' second-quarter net profit was flat from the previous quarter as an increase in the Korea Development Bank's (KDB) net profit offset a decline in ordinary banks' net profit, preliminary data showed Tuesday.



The combined net profit of 20 banks in the April-June period was 7.1 trillion won ($5.4 billion), unchanged from the first three months of this year, according to the Financial Supervisory Service (FSS).



The net profit of 19 banks, excluding the KDB, fell 10.1 percent to 5.4 trillion won over the same period, but net profit of the KDB rose 600 billion won to 1.7 trillion won largely thanks to a 1 trillion-won provision reversal of shipbuilder Hanwha Ocean, according to the FSS.



The interest income of the 20 banks in the second quarter was also the same as the previous quarter at 14.7 trillion won thanks to an increase in interest-bearing assets despite a drop in the net interest margin (NIM), or the difference between interest paid and interest received.



The banks' return on assets (ROA) ratio and return on equity (ROE) ratio fell 0.01 percentage point and 0.37 percentage point on-quarter to 0.78 percent and 10.7 percent, respectively.



Except the KDB figures, the ROA and ROE of banks posted a bigger drop of 0.05 percentage point and 1.24 percentage points, respectively.



The non-interest income of 20 banks contracted over 15 percent to 1.8 trillion won in the second quarter due to a decrease in profit from stocks and bonds amid high borrowing costs.



The aggregate loan loss expenses of the 20 banks was down 18.9 percent to 1.4 trillion won, but without the KDB's provision reversal of Hanwha Ocean, the figure jumped 52.9 percent on-quarter to 2.6 trillion won.



The FSS said it will continue to monitor the bad debt allowance of banks and push for a raise in the countercyclical capital buffer ratio, where banks will be required to hold more capital to secure financial stability, amid a global economic slowdown and monetary tightening as well as China's real estate crisis. (Yonhap)


Bennington, VT (05201)

Today

Cloudy with periods of rain. High near 50F. Winds WSW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 100%. Rainfall around a quarter of an inch..

Tonight

Rain showers this evening with clearing overnight. Low 32F. Winds WNW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 50%.
A summer intern works on a project at Red Shirt Farm in Lanesborough. Twenty-seven Berkshire County high school students participated in internships at 14 local businesses through the MassHire Berkshire Workforce Board's Summer Youth Employment Programming this year.
The headquarters of MG Non-Life Insurance in southern Seoul / Yonhap



Litigation risks remain



By Anna J. Park



The Korea Deposit Insurance Corporation (KDIC) has officially kicked off the M&A bidding process for MG Non-Life Insurance this week. Samjeong KPMG, the lead sale manager of the deal, plans to receive Letter of Intent (LOI) submissions by potential buyers by Oct. 5 in order to select preliminary bidders.



Aiming to reduce burdens on potential buyers, the KDIC plans to apply the purchase and assumption (P&A) method for MG Non-Life's sale. Unlike a traditional M&A approach, P&A involves a selective transfer of assets and liabilities, allowing a potential buyer to exclude some of the non-performing assets and subordinate debts. It is also the most common and preferred method used by the U.S. Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) in handling failing banks.



It is the KDIC's second attempt to publicly sell the company this year alone. The state-run deposit insurer initiated the sale process of the company in January, only to see no buyers show up due to concerns over ongoing legal disputes.



The KDIC has been managing the insurer's management, since the Financial Services Commission (FSC), the top financial regulator, designated the firm as an insolvent financial institution in April last year. The FSC cited failures at proceeding with the planned capital increase as well as an inadequate level of the risk-based capital (RBC) ratio as the rationale for the designation.



Following the FSC's decision, JC Partners, the largest shareholder of MG Non-Life Insurance, filed both an injunction and a main lawsuit at the administrative court, asking for the cancellation of the government's designation of the insurance firm as a troubled financial institution.



However, JC Partners lost in both cases. Earlier this month, the Seoul Administrative Court ruled in favor of the financial authorities, clearing the way for the KDIC's rightful sale of MG Non-Life Insurance under its control.



Market watchers view Woori Financial Group, which has emphasized its willingness to strengthen non-banking units, and Kyobo Life, which hasn't had any affiliated insurance companies yet, as the two strongest potential candidates for the bidding.



However, litigation risks with JC Partners remain. The private equity firm is mulling over whether to file an injunction to suspend the bidding process and to appeal the ruling of the first trial.


Carr Hardware's President Bart Raser, second from left, holds the trophy after the Berkshire-based hardware store chain recently received this year's Retailer Beacon Award.
This fall, neither Jaeschkes nor Bartletts Orchard in Richmond will offer customers the option of picking their own apples  a must-do fall activity for many in the Berkshires. They simply dont have enough fruit. Across the state, experts estimate there might have been a 20 percent loss in apples.
North Adams police photographed the contents of two vehicles involved in a drug bust on Friday. Two people were arrested.
LENOX  Chabad of the Berkshires, the traditional Jewish movement based on South Street in Pittsfield since 2004, is poised for a $2 million investment for a new center in the heart of Lenox. A groundbreaking and dedication ceremony open to 
You are the owner of this article.
Editor's Note: This story was updated at 2 p.m. to reflect that attorney Tom Bosworth is representing several different plaintiffs in multiple cases that have been filed against GE, Monsanto, and other defendants related to PCB exposure in Berkshire County.

Representatives of the Environmental Protection Agency will be on hand next month to discuss new details about a landfill proposed to store PCB-tainted sediments from the Housatonic River.

General Electric Co. recently filed its final predesign investigation report as part of the Rest of River cleanup plan. The report, which includes information about groundwater, soil test results and other scientific data, will be reviewed during an upcoming meeting of the Citizens Coordinating Council, or CCC, which is set for 6 p.m. Sept. 13, at the Lee Library.

The CCC represents stakeholders including advocacy groups, state and federal environmental regulators, tribal governments, cities and towns along the Housatonic River and General Electric Co., among others. It meets quarterly to discuss the complicated process of evaluating the watershed and its needs, while advising local stakeholders about the status of the various elements of the project.

According to the report, filed Aug. 7, the landfill  referred to as an upland disposal facility  will be built on a 75-acre parcel that was previously a sand and gravel quarry. GE, which is responsible for the cleanup, bought the property from The Lane Construction Corp. in 2021.

More than 1 million cubic yards of low-level toxic sediment would be trucked to the landfill. About 100,000 cubic yards of sediment containing higher levels of PCBs  polychlorinated biphenyls  will be removed to an out-of-state facility.

That meeting is the first of two upcoming sessions focused on the Rest of River cleanup. The Housatonic River Initiative, whose efforts to have the cleanup plan halted were denied by a federal appeals court in July, is holding an informational meeting at 6 p.m. on Sept. 14 at the Lenox Community Center at 43 Walker St.

Speakers at that session are expected to include Lee Select Board Chair Bob Jones; attorney Tom Bosworth, who is representing plaintiffs in several different cases claiming that exposure to PCBs disposed near and in the soil used to layer Allendale Elementary School's property in Pittsfield caused cancer; and HRI Executive Director Tim Gray.

The landfill site report, which can be found at the EPAs Housatonic cleanup website, categorizes current soil, habitat and groundwater conditions at the location, about a mile from Woods Pond. According to the report, based on available flood insurance maps, the parcel is entirely outside of the mapped 500-year floodplain for the Housatonic River to the north and west  and for the Washington Mountain Brook to the south.

Bedrock, the report said, was found at three boring locations, and was classified as marble.

Review of the core sample indicates that the marble is hard and competent, it said, and that it generally slopes downward in a northwestern direction.

At a public hearing held by the Housatonic River Initiative in 2022, retired geology professor and consultant David J. De Simone said the underlying sand and gravel aquifer at the site includes bedrock fractures" that would allow contaminants to escape if the landfill and liner were to leak, he said.

Under the terms of a revised permit, GE has agreed to remove PCB-contaminated sediment from a 10-mile stretch of the Housatonic from Pittsfield to Great Barrington. Work on a 1.5-mile stretch of the river upstream of Fred Garner Park was finished in 2007.

The CCC will also review GEs plan for a pilot study of removing sediments from vernal pools  seasonal bodies of water that provide habitats for plants and animals. The cleanup permit requires a pilot study on no more than 10 vernal pools as a way to evaluate how PCBs should be removed.

Based on the results of the pilot study, EPA will determine the preferred method for remediation and restoration of the remaining vernal pools, considering the Core Area habitat restrictions specified in the Revised Final Permit, the filing says.

GE used PCBs as part of its manufacture of power transformers in Pittsfield. The chemical, which was widely used in electrical components as a fire retardant was outlawed as a probable cause of cancer in 1977.

Attorneys for Housatonic River Initiative and Housatonic Environmental Action League argued that the deal reached between GE and the five towns in 2020 was reached without sufficient public input. A three-judge panel for the U.S. Court of Appeals for the First Circuit denied the petition, saying EPAs actions in approving the 2020 permit were not arbitrary or capricious.

The two groups unsuccessfully sought to reverse the agreement reached in 2020 between GE and the towns of Lenox, Lee, Stockbridge, Great Barrington and Sheffield. GE is on the hook for the $576 million cleanup and the First Circuit's ruling obligates the company to proceed with the work.

Jones said in July that Lee [doesnt] have faith in the [cleanup] plan.
Maine State Trooper and former North Adams police officer David Lemieux says it could take a year to recover from his injuries from a crash last month, in which he and other officers were struck by an allegedly intoxicated driver.
We Are China

Autumn harvest begins in Heilongjiang

16:59, August 29, 2023 By ZHOU HUIYING in Harbin ( Chinadaily.com.cn

Farmers celebrate the start of their autumn harvest in Heilongjiang province. [Photo by Pan Xiuping/For chinadaily.com.cn]

Rice farmers affiliated with Jiangchuan  a State-owned farming company that's part of Beidahuang Agricultural Reclamation Group in Heilongjiang province  were thrilled when nine harvesting machines started working their paddies on Sunday morning.

The day marked the beginning of the autumn harvest.

"We planted an early-maturing variety of rice on 6 hectares, which ripened earlier than usual," said Wu Yugang, vice-general manager of Jiangchuan. "We expect to see a yield of around 8,500 kilograms per hectare."

Jiangchuan has 19,800 hectares of arable land planted with rice this year.

At the launching ceremony, the farm prepared various foods made of local rice, attracting many residents and tourists.

Harvesting machines work in Heilongjiang province on Aug 28, 2023. [Photo by Pan Xiuping/For chinadaily.com.cn]

Harvesting machines work in Heilongjiang province on Aug 28, 2023. [Photo by Pan Xiuping/For chinadaily.com.cn]

Harvesting machines work in Heilongjiang province on Aug 28, 2023. [Photo by Pan Xiuping/For chinadaily.com.cn]

Harvesting machines work in Heilongjiang province. [Photo by Guo Hui/For chinadaily.com.cn]

Harvesting machines work in Heilongjiang province. [Photo by Guo Hui/For chinadaily.com.cn]

Farmers celebrate the start of the autumn harvest on the Jiangchuan farm, a State-owned farming company in Heilongjiang province. [Photo by Guo Hui/For chinadaily.com.cn]

Harvesting machines work on the Jiangchuan farm of Beidahuang Agricultural Reclamation Group in Heilongjiang province on Aug 28, 2023. [Photo by Guo Hui/For chinadaily.com.cn]

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun)
Chinese tourists enter Lotte Duty Free store in Seoul, Aug. 24. Yonhap



By Lee Min-hyung



Semiconductor and cosmetics stocks look to be on a path to a major rebound in the local stock market, serving as key drivers to activate the sagging KOSPI in the latter half, analysts said.



The prediction came amid diminishing global monetary uncertainties after U.S. Fed Chair Jerome Powell sent a message widely considered less hawkish than previous ones.



Korean stocks have been vulnerable to macroeconomic fears for the past few months, as well as widening volatility sparked by a series of pessimistic economic indices, such as weak exports and sluggish private consumption.



A possible rebound of major large-cap chip stocks, however, will buffer such concerns, market analysts said.



"The main bourse inched up after monetary uncertainties have been cleared away following the recent economic conference in Jackson Hole, and the once-prevalent fear sentiment that suppressed the global stock market and the KOSPI is showing signs of diminishing," Daishin Securities analyst Lee Kyoung-min said.



"Even if there still stands a possibility of the KOSPI extending slight ups and downs, it will be on course for a stable rebound to over 2,540 points, and semiconductor stocks will be the key driving force," the analyst said.



A gradual recovery in exports is the key reason behind the forecast, according to the expert.




Nobody will show up for your pity party. Whining is usually void of the gospel. But thats not the case with a lament. A lament is a prayer expressing sorrow, pain, or confusion. There are several laments in the Psalms. And there is an entire book called Lamentations.

Its a tough read. At first glance it feels a bit like going on a long car ride with a Debbie Downer. Page after page is filled with expressions of deep pain. At first glance a lament feels out of place in the context of good news. But as we dig deeper, we find that its actually the soil from which gospel truth springs.

We will explore how to find the gospel in the book of Lamentations. But first we need to learn how to find the gospel in the Old Testament in general.

How Do You Find the Gospel in the Old Testament?

I suppose before understanding how to find the gospel in the OT, itd be helpful for us to define the gospel. The simplest definition is one given by JI Packer: God saves sinners. If youd like to put a bit more meat on your gospel presentation, I use two different frameworks with four points each. The first is GodManChristResponse. The second is more of a story: CreationFallRedemptionGlory.

The first presentation centers upon Gods character and how humanity fails to meet Gods holy standard, as such the judgment of God is upon us. But the good news is that Jesus Christ fixes this by fulfilling what is required through his life, death and resurrection. Our only fitting response, then, is to respond to Him in repentance and faith. When this happens, we are united to Christ and his record becomes our record.

The second presentation centers upon the overarching story of the Bible. God lovingly created us to love Him and enjoy Him forever. We were made for rest, rule, and relationship. But we made shipwreck of this, and so rather than having the blessings of obedience we are under the curse of disobedience. Rather than having peace (rest), purpose (ruling), and healthy relationship we often experience the opposite. Ultimately, we are alienated from God. But thankfully God sent His Son, Jesus Christ, to bear our curse and to fulfill what God intended for humanity. As such we now experience the blessings of Jesus obedience in our place. He restores the rest, rule, and relationship we were created to enjoy. Someday everything will be ultimately restored and we will live in a new heaven and a new earth.

We could write entire books focusing on these various themes of the gospel. But every gospel story follows this basic skeleton. No matter where you find yourself in the Old Testament (or the New Testament) you can find one of these various threads. Every place in Scripture is either telling you something about God, something about our rebellion, something about His rescue, or something about our future restoration. If you can spot this, then you can fill out the rest of the story.

How Do You Find the Gospel in Lamentations?

The book of Lamentations is written by the prophet Jeremiah during the Babylonian exile. It was a time of intense and unapparelled suffering. It, like Psalm 88, is an expression of what happens whenever the covenant curses of Deuteronomy fall upon a people, instead of the covenant blessings.

Lamentations is an acrostic poem. It is beautifully written, reminding us that some of the greatest works of art are sourced in some of the greatest experiences of pain. Eugene Peterson also makes a helpful observation when he says, The acrostic form makes certain that nothing is left out, but it also, just as certainly, puts limits upon its repetitions. If there is a beginning to evil, there is also an end to it.

Just as with most psalms of lament, there are a few positive notes which are struck in the poem. But for the most part it is bleak. How, then, does it connect to the gospel? Exactly in the way in which Peterson mentioned. Jeremiahs lament has a God-ward direction. It is looking for rescue.

We see in the story of the Bible that humanity has rebelled from God. All of the good promises, all of the blessings of covenant relationship, are forsaken through our rebellion. It happened to the first couple, it happened to the wilderness generation, and it happened again in the time of Jeremiah. What we read in Lamentations is our lot. This is what we deserve through our rebellion. Sadly, its what we have chosen. This is the consequence of removing ourselves from the care of a good God.

There is something both beautiful and difficult in Lamentations 5. Here the author doesnt use an acrostic poem. Its just an explosion of thought and emotion, as if he can no longer contain it. And the book ends with both hope and doubt. He acknowledges that God reigns forever and pleads for restoration. But it ends with these words:

unless you have utterly rejected us, and you remain exceedingly angry with us (Lamentations 5:22).

We are left with that cliff-hanger. Will they remain in exile? Will Gods displeasure remain upon them? We know from the rest of the story that God brought them back into the land. And we know that they rebuilt the temple. And we know that it was in this rebuilt temple, and after this exile, that the Son of God came. And this Son of God instituted the new covenant.

A new covenant means that in Christ we will never be ultimately rejected. Gods anger has been averted and poured out upon Jesus instead of upon us. The good news of Christ is the answer to the pain of Lamentations.

But such a word might leave us confused. Were not meant to read Lamentations and say, Whew, thankfully we dont need to read a book like that again! The new covenant makes void Lamentations. We are meant to learn from it and to understand that sorrow and pain and such are woven into the gospel. Its often the context in which the gospel is lived out, at least until God makes all things finally and decisively right. These words from Christopher J.H. Wright should be considered:

the language of lament is seriously neglected in the church. Many Christians seem to feel that somehow it cant be right to complain to God in the context of corporate worship when we should all feel happy. There is an implicit pressure to stifle our real feelings because we are urged, by pious merchants of emotional denial, that we ought to have faith (as if the moaning psalmists didnt). So we end up giving external voice to pretended emotions we do not really feel, while hiding the real emotions we are struggling with deep inside. Going to worship can become an exercise in pretense and concealment, neither of which can possibly be conducive for a real encounter with God. So, in reaction to some appalling disaster or tragedy, rather than cry out our true feelings to God, we prefer other ways of responding to it.

Unsurprisingly, the book of Lamentations can teach us how to properly lament. The good news of the gospel often shines brightest in the context of deep suffering. When we learn to express our sorrow and our ache to God, we are well positioned to also receive the balm of gospel healing.

Lamentations is a hard book. But life is hard. If we're willing to acknowledge that both the good news of Jesus and present suffering can be simultaneously true, then we can see the gospel even in the valley of Lamentations.

Sources

Eugene Peterson, Five Smooth Stones for Pastoral Work, 122

Christopher J.H. Wright, The God I Dont Understand, 52

Related articles

Dive into the Book of Jonah to Find Unexpected Gospel Connections

Finding the Gospel in the Old Testament Book of Ruth

Let's Go Back to the Beginning to Find the Gospel in Genesis

Photo credit: Getty Images/spukkato
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As the chairperson of the Brics Business Council, Patrice Motsepe underscores the critical imperative to expedite the progress and development of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

Source: African Rainbow Energy. Patrice Motsepe, Brics Business Council chairperson.

The AfCFTA intends to create a single market for goods and services, facilitated by movement of persons in order to deepen the economic integration of the African continent. The single market is expected to grow to 1.7 billion people and nearly $7tn in consumer and business spending by 2030.

Addressing the 15th Brics Summit in Johannesburg, Motsepe called for a sense of urgency to make sure that trade barriers - both tariff and non-tariff - are significantly diminished and eliminated.

South African companies are the largest trading partners on the African continent. They are world class with many of them being as good as the best in the world.

The key issue is that the governments have to increase their partnerships with the private sector and these discussions between the private sector and governments must increase significantly.

Part of these discussions is for the private sector to indicate to government what impediment and barriers are there to the free trade of goods and services on the Africa continent, Motsepe said on Tuesday, 22 August.

Taking place under the theme: "Brics and Africa: Partnership for mutually accelerated growth, sustainable development and inclusive multilateralism, the summit is being attended by the leaders of Brazil, India, China, as well as South Africa, as the host.

Motsepe stressed that the future of African business depends on its capacity and ability to prove to the rest of the world that it can conduct partnerships, trade, investments as well as the ability to have business relationships that are mutually beneficial.

The key issue for us is that we have to consistently produce results and indicate that the standards of living of our people are improving because at the heart of these trade ties is the poor, the unemployed and the marginalised, he said.

Confidence in African economic growth

Motsepe expressed confidence in the continents ability to grow its economies.

We have a clear understanding of the challenges that confront us but we are equally confident based on the facts that the time for Africa has come. We will do well because seven of the fastest growing economies in the world are on the African continent.

The amount of intra African trade is increasing significantly and the partnership with Brics countries is very important and the relationships of doing business with the rest of the world is also important, he said.

In an effort for Brics countries to have greater access to markets, Motsepe called for the fast tracking of priority visas for entrepreneurs who are looking for opportunities.

We understand that there are legitimate concerns about making sure that governments maintain their sovereign control of who comes and who goes out. We agree with that and support it as well but these are some of the low hanging fruits [that can be addressed].

We can immediately give preferential access to businessmen from Brics countries. Give them visas, allow them to come and look at opportunities in South Africa as well as on the continent. What we spoke about was reciprocity, he said.

Unlocking Brics potential

Motsepe said Brics has enormous potential and intends to significantly increase trade, investment and partnership relationships between South Africa, Africa and the Brics countries.

Last year, trade between Brics countries totalled some $162bn.

The potential is enormous but again the sense of urgency is what we need to translate the good ideas that we have; these big plans into effective, legislative policy instruments that allow for effective free flow of goods and services. When we started, we wanted to increase the trade between the African continent and Brics countries.

The commitment and the will is there. A market is an opportunity until you invest and sometimes your investment takes five to seven years before you realise value. There are opportunities in terms of what we can do, the magnitude of how we can grow and the magnitude of how we can grow the trade investment and business ties between South Africa, Africa and Brics countries, Motsepe said.

With South Africas history with the Brics countries, which emanates during the years of the countrys fight for democracy, Motsepe said South Africa is building on those partnerships and they are important.

We are building on that historical support that they have given to initiatives and the struggle towards democracy. We are using the history that we have with them to build very strong, beneficial business, investment ties and economic growth.

This Brics partnership has to translate into assessable, quantifiable investment and trade ties and it is doing that. That partnership has resulted in benefits but in relation to where we should be, there is still a long way to go," he said.

Katja Hamilton is at the Brics Summit this week in Johannesburg, reporting live for Bizcommunity.
How GIS-enabled weather data analysis and visualisation is transforming the insurance industry.

Brian Civin, chief sales and marketing officer at AfriGIS

Sub-Saharan Africa is particularly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. In South Africa, we're seeing parts of the country dealing with increasingly severe droughts, while other regions are facing unexpected storms, landslides, and flash floods due to changes in rainfall patterns.

When it comes to managing insurance claims during these extreme weather events, insurance companies are up against some serious challenges. These events may be huge in scale, complex, and often hard to predict.

But here's the interesting part: insurance companies are now looking to data and analytics to step up their game when it comes to handling claims after weather-related incidents.

Traditionally, insurers have struggled with processing and making sense of all the weather data out there. They're now turning to geospatial solutions that bring together information about policies with alerts from the South African Weather Service. By using weather-based data, the big insurance players in the country are getting better at calculating risks, improving safety measures, and handling claims more efficiently.

So, how does it work? Geospatial solutions tailored for the insurance industry gather real-time weather data from different sources like weather stations and satellites. They overlay this data with information about locations. Insurance providers can analyse this information to figure out weather patterns, track storms, and keep an eye on atmospheric conditions. This helps them make smarter predictions about what's going to happen in specific areas.

There are several benefits to this approach:

Risk assessment

By layering weather data on top of other location-based info, insurers can identify areas that are prone to certain weather risks, like floods or wildfires. They can also figure out how weather might impact things like buildings, homes, and vehicles, and estimate how much damage it could cause. More accurate, more detailed risk profiles help them set the right prices for policies and put in place measures to reduce risks.

Real-time monitoring and alerts

When systems keep a constant watch on weather conditions they can send out alerts when things start to get serious. Insurers can set up automated alerts based on certain criteria, like warnings about severe weather. This way, they can take action quickly and let customers know what's going on.

Protecting assets and preventing losses

Insurers can spot assets that might be at risk because of the weather. They can map out what their customers own and figure out how exposed they are to weather dangers. Based on this, they can give advice on how to protect assets better  like suggesting changes to properties, measures to prevent damage, or even tips on getting ready for emergencies. For example, in Gauteng, insurance companies advise people to move their cars to a safe spot if a hailstorm is on the horizon.

Managing claims and acting fast

Every weather event is tracked and recorded, including lightning strikes, hailstorms and severe downpours. In the event of a claim, the insurance company has the ability to validate that a particular weather event happened at a specific time and place. This makes it easier for insurers to handle claims. By bringing together geospatial info with claims data and customer details, they can quickly figure out the impact, confirm claims, and speed up the whole process. Swift reaction results in improved customer service.

Sharing risk info and talking to customers

Geospatial systems are also a great way for insurers to communicate risks to their customers. They can use interactive maps and visuals to show potential dangers and give advice on how to stay safe. This kind of engagement encourages customers to think proactively about managing risks and protecting their possessions.

Insurers are under increasing pressure to differentiate themselves in a highly competitive market driven by evolving customer expectations, technological advancements, and changing risk landscapes. They need to deliver unique value propositions and remain relevant in an industry undergoing rapid transformation. By tapping into the capabilities of geospatial systems, insurers are getting better at predicting and managing weather-related risks. They're keeping customer assets safe, making risk assessments more accurate, handling claims more smoothly, and getting their customers more involved in staying safe.




Richfield has partnered with Old Mutual Limited (OML), a premium African financial services group, to provide students with unparalleled access and opportunities in the technology sector.

Old Mutual launched its Tech Hub in Umhlanga, Durban to bring a Silicon Valley-like innovation space to KwaZulu-Natal that will nurture a pipeline of skilled talent who will solve for our countrys current constraints. As a leading IT institution with a track record of more than 30 years, Richfield is proud to be Old Mutuals partner of choice, to supply skilled talent in the various areas of disruptive and emerging technologies.

The partnership enables Richfield students to access work-integrated learning placements, immersive internships, vacation work opportunities, and permanent employment. The partnership has already yielded great results with a number of Richfield graduates already employed by Old Mutual, and more of our students and graduates are

in line to be absorbed by the financial giant.

"We are thrilled to partner with Old Mutual to provide our students with an unparalleled advantage in the competitive job market," said Dr Stephen Akandwanaho, dean Faculty of Information Technology. "This collaboration will empower our students with hands-on experience, mentorship, and exposure to industry best practice, enabling them to seamlessly transition from academia to fulfilling tech careers. The relationship is a win-win partnership.

Richfields world-class IT curriculum is at the forefront of innovation, designed to empower students with the skills that matter most to employers. Under the Faculty of Information Technology, Richfield students have the option of specialising in Programming, Network Engineering, Business Analysis, IT Management and Emerging Technology.

The cutting-edge curriculums are designed to, among others, produce the best data scientists, artificial intelligence experts and python developers. Besides the formal curriculum, our students also have the opportunity to stack micro-credentials in partnership with Amazon Web Services, Cisco, IBM, Oracle and Salesforce, all of which happens within their duration of study. Now, by providing our students with access to Old Mutuals state-of-the-art tech hub, we are ensuring that our graduates are not just job-ready, but innovation-ready too.




Vodacom Western Cape will invest R570m this year to improve its network quality, capacity and reach. The investment will focus R470m on expanding 5G, modernising existing infrastructure, and upgrading LTE sites, with the remaining R100m going towards energy projects to ensure uninterrupted connectivity during load shedding.

Vodacom Western Cape has expanded 5G access with the spectrum acquired in the Ices auction. Source: Zz/Pexels

As we continue to connect for a better future, we remain focused on the quality, reliability and expansion of our network," said Carol Hall, managing executive, Vodacom Western Cape at a press briefing in Cape Town.

"Our significant investment into infrastructure upgrades is enabling customers to reap the transformative benefits of technology. This includes access to education, health and financial digital platforms that promote socio-economic empowerment in the region.

Vodacom picked up 110MHz of high-demand spectrum at the Independent Communications Authority of South Africas (ICASA) auction in March last year and has used this to quadruple its 5G network reach in the Western Cape over the last year.

Unlocking 5G potential

We identified that the Western Cape has the highest percentage of 5G devices in circulation in the country, explains Christien Geldenhuys, head of network operations: Vodacom Western Cape.

With 5G now available on over 200 base stations in the Western Cape, Vodacom customers in various high-demand urban areas have access to the associated substantial network capacity and speeds.

Deploying 5G to areas with a high density of 5G devices has allowed us to shift those users off of LTE to free up capacity, she continues.

Geldenhuys said that the difference between energy use between 5G and LTE network connectivity is the same, but 5G does offer more network capacity which improves the user experience.

The acquired spectrum has also enabled several network firsts in 5G connectivity, including a 5G indoor solution, which was deployed at the Cape Town International Convention Centre in time for the AfricaCom Conference in November last year.

Vodacom also deployed 5G ocean coverage, which allowed for HD live-streaming of the 50th Ocean Race in February this year.

Were excited about the possibilities of 5G, especially as we are the Vodacom region with the most 5G-enabled smartphones. Expanding this next-generation technology opens opportunities to further improve our network performance and deliver innovative solutions that can build an inclusive digital future, says Hall.

Helping SMEs

Although the 5G advancements are great for marketing, the network operators has also been busy with other projects.

Vodacom launched V-Hub, which is a free online advice platform designed to help SMEs grow their businesses, through its Vodacom Business division.

The company consulted with experts to bring SMEs objective, trustworthy and actionable advice, especially as SMEs embark on a digital journey.

The advice also guides SMEs on how to find and keep customers, protect business data online, financial and business best practice and more.

Our aim is to deliver greater value to our customers through unparalleled network connectivity. Testament to this commitment is the results of the latest biannual network report by the independent benchmarking organisation umlaut, part of Accenture," explains Hall.

"Vodacom was ranked 'Best in Test' ahead of mobile network competitors and scored the highest for network reliability, data services and crowdsourced network quality."

Vodacom Western Cape has also tried to make connectivity more affordable in the region and introduced personalised discounted bundles Just4You, Just4You Town bundles for residents in certain Western Cape towns and bigger prepaid data bundles with Prepaid LTE to make connectivity affordable.

This has helped data traffic to grow by 40% in the province over the past year. The company also expects further growth on the back of investments into improving indoor signal quality and expanding LTE capacity and signal reach in rural areas.

Vodacom deployed LTE on the newly acquired 700MHz spectrum on more than a quarter of its installed base in the region to help achieve these goals..
Minister in the Presidency for Electricity, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa has emphasised that the agreements signed in the past week with Chinese state owned entities and the donation by the People's Republic of China are to address this country's emergency energy solutions.

Minister in the Presidency for Electricity, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa. Source: x.com

South Africa concluded a significant amount of agreements with Chinese state owned entities (SOEs) with the signing of two overarching memoranda that were witnessed by President Cyril Ramaphosa and President Xi Jinping when the country hosted the 15th BRICS Summit last week. It was also President Xi's fourth state visit to South Africa ahead of the Summit.

Addressing the media on the Energy Action Plan on Sunday, Ramokgopa explained that the two agreements include amongst others, addressing issues of green energy solutions, exploitations of renewable energy sources and the use of modern technology.

The two agreements  the first one addresses issues around green energy solutions- the partnership agreement we will be entering in relation to the exploitation of renewable energy sources in our country; the use of modern technology and the degree to which we are able to connect renewable energy onto the grid," he said.

The rationale for entering with the Chinese in this regard is because they are a dominant player on the renewable energy space. They have 688GW of installed capacity of renewables, a combination of PV and wind. They have done one of the biggest expansions of transmission and they have also worked on the kind of transmission modernisation required to be able to accommodate the intermittency of renewable sources."

Donation for emergency solutions

In regards to the donation by the People's Republic of China, the Minister said this is aimed at addressing South Africas emergency energy solutions, which is targeted at key public facilities such as police stations, health institutions and correctional centres.

Minister Ramokgopa emphasised that provincial departments will play a role in identifying the key public areas.

The second one, was an exchange of letters in relation to a donation that we are receiving from the Peoples Republic of China that is meant to help us in addressing the emergency energy solution in the country," explained Ramokgopa.

I did indicate that its likely going to be targeted in key public facilities such as hospitals, clinics, correctional services, and police stations. In this regard, we will be working with the nine provincial governments for them to be able to identify sites that are suitable for this. We already have a technical capacity that is supporting us in relation to the appropriateness of the technology solutions that are given to us and those that have been agreed upfront, he said.

Ramokgopa further announced that the first shipment of the technology solutions by China is en route and an announcement will be made when it arrives in the country, having left Chinese shores on 14 August.

We will announce at the right time when the first shipment lands and give an indication of the first public facilities that will benefit from this generous donation.

Load shedding

Turning to the performance of the system for the past week, the Minister said that the available capacity has come down.

I did indicate that we are beginning to normalise being above 28GW on average. We have kept close to that most of the week and the average is about 27,56MW, he said.

We did indicate that we were going to slow down planned outages and once we get out of a very difficult winter we are going to ramp up because we need to protect these machines, generation and units to ensure their sustainability and reliability going into the future. We still remain above 15GW in relation to unplanned capacity lost factor. I made a point that we want to bring it down, the Minister said.

Ramokgopa said government was confident the system was stabilising and the country will continue to have lower stages of load shedding as the system recovers.

On the issue of performance, we are more that satisfied. We have shown where we moved from a historic low of 48% of energy availability factor. We have been averaging 60% energy availability factor," he said.

When we went to the winter period, the worst case scenario was Stage 8. We only had 30 hours of Stage 6. You can see the intensity of load shedding is coming down. The issues of outage slips, I have shown to you, they have come down from a high of 3,300MW to 766MW, concluded the minister.
In a recent statement during the Brics conference, the Chinese delegation opined that South African government procurement processes and Black Economic Empowerment (BEE) policies are potential barriers to Chinese investment in the country. Contrary to this viewpoint, an analysis of South Africa's mining law reveals that Chinese entities enjoy unique advantages when investing, which do not even require citizenship, owing to historical discrimination against Chinese people as a group.

Challenging assumptions

The assertion that BEE impedes Chinese investment prompts a comprehensive investigation into the matter. Contrary to this claim, an analysis of the legal landscape reveals that this purported impediment does not hold true for the mining industry. To understand this, one must first delve into the complexities of the origins of the transformation imperative underpinning South African mining law.

The role of historical disadvantage

At the heart of this issue lies the concept of the need to redress discrimination against Historically Disadvantaged Persons (HDPs), a cornerstone of the Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development Act (MPRD Act) and the Mining Charter. One of the MPRD Act's primary objectives is to promote transformation within the mining sector by ensuring active participation by HDPs.

Importantly, the MPRD Act defines HDPs as individuals, communities, or categories of persons who suffered unfair discrimination prior to the South African Constitution becoming effective. This definition extends beyond nationality or citizenship and encompasses any persons or categories of person subjected to discrimination under the apartheid regime. Belonging to a racial group that was historically discriminated against and not citizenship, is the prerequisite for qualification as an HDP.

China's position as HDPs

While critics may argue that this interpretation runs counter to the spirit of the Mining Charter and the MPRD Act, the ordinary meaning of the words used must be given effect to and applied to the fact that Chinese individuals, irrespective of their citizenship status, are considered HDPs under the MPRD Act and the Mining Charter. This recognition stems from the historical reality that Chinese individuals faced discrimination during the apartheid era, resulting in them being rightfully included in the definition of HDPs.

This interpretation finds reinforcement in a pivotal 2007 High Court judgment which declared that South African Chinese citizens fall within the category of "Black People" as defined by the Employment Equity Act and the Broad-Based Economic Empowerment Act. It is noteworthy, however, that for the purposes of the MPRD Act, Chinese individuals are not required to qualify as South African citizens to be classified as HDPs.

Implications for applications for rights such as Mining Rights, under the MPRD Act

Chinese entities hold a distinct advantage when compared to other foreign entities when applying for such rights under the MPRD Act. All such applicants must facilitate the participation by HDPs in mining activities as a prerequisite for a successful grant of rights, an obligation discharged by adhering to the guidelines in the Mining Charter. Consequently, Chinese individuals and companies intending to apply for mining rights in South Africa are not required to conclude transactions with South African HDPs to fulfill Mining Charter BEE requirements.

A comparison of the Codes of Good Practice for the mining sector's definition of "Historically Disadvantaged South Africans" with the HDP definition of the MPRD Act and the Mining Charter, reveals minimal disparities in substance. The reference to South Africans in the definition in the Codes makes no significant difference.

The future landscape

Anticipating the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy's (DMRE) response to this application of the definition of HDP poses intriguing questions, like those raised when the view is pronounced that white women are also HDPs as they were also discriminated against in pre-Constitution South Africa. The DMRE's stance could oscillate between scepticism and acceptance, influenced by both legal considerations and geopolitical dynamics between South Africa and China. Nevertheless, this interpretation of the definition of HDP could serve as an appealing prospect for the DMRE, potentially encouraging stronger ties with Brics partners and fostering increased investment in South Africa's mineral wealth.

For the same reasons, Indian persons who are not South African citizens have the same advantages, as they also qualify as HDPs for the purposes of the MPRD Act. Whether India or China takes advantage of this nuance in our mining laws in the context of the stronger ties occasioned by Brics, is the question to be ultimately answered. It is also likely that the government will amend the definition of HDPs to limit it to South African citizens if such a trend gains momentum.
Vitaderm is giving away R100,000 worth of prizes to three up and coming skin therapists to assist them in establishing their own salons.

Image supplied

Since its inception over two decades ago, the proudly South African skincare brand has supported the salon trade, a commitment now taking on new heights through their Salon-in-a-Box competition. This competition, tailored for the skin therapists of tomorrow, embodies Vitaderm's ethos of fostering collaboration, accessibility, and excellence in skincare.

We understand the pivotal role that skin therapists play in guiding individuals on their skincare journeys. As a salon-first brand, we have always recognised and championed their expertise. Through Salon-in-a-Box our aim is to empower budding skin therapists by providing them with an exclusive opportunity to embark on their careers with the Vitaderm advantage, explains Vitaderm managing director, Craig Sydenham.

Salon-in-a-Box isn't just about a foot in the door; it's about launching careers, igniting passions, and fostering relationships. At the heart of the brands philosophy lies a profound commitment to mutual support. By extending a hand to newcomers, we actively cultivate a vibrant network of professionals who share our visionary goal: to democratise the science of good skin.

What sets us apart is not just the quality of our products, but the synergy between science and accessibility. Our professional skincare range, enriched with advanced active ingredients, is tailored for transformative results. To harness this potential effectively, we've always stressed the importance of professional guidance. That's why our products are exclusively available through qualified skin clinics, ensuring that each individual receives personalised recommendations from skilled experts, Sydenham adds.
Finance Minister Choo Kyung-ho speaks during a press briefing on South Korea's 2024 budget held in the central city of Sejong, Aug. 24. Yonhap



South Korea's finance ministry on Tuesday proposed a budget of 654.2 trillion won ($495 billion) for 2024, marking the slowest on-year growth since 2005, as the country aims to tighten its belt amid economic uncertainties.



The proposal marks a 2.8 percent growth from this year's budget of 638.7 trillion won, which marks a drastic slowdown from the previous year's 5.1 percent rise, according to the Ministry of Economy and Finance.



"The tax revenue for both the current year and 2024 continues to present challenges, as the nation's fiscal landscape grapples with an enlarging deficit and an accumulated national debt exceeding 1,000 trillion won," Finance Minister Choo Kyung-ho said in a statement.



Choo added that the government has made a "prudent" decision to keep the rise below 3 percent to maintain the country's sound fiscal health.



The finance ministry plans to submit the budget proposal, endorsed by the Cabinet on Tuesday, to the National Assembly on Friday for approval.



The latest restructuring of the budget came as the government has been vowing to achieve "sound fiscal health" while condemning the previous government for rolling out aggressive fiscal policies.



The government especially allocated just 25.9 trillion won for research and development (R&D) projects, sharply down 16.6 percent from the 31 trillion won tallied for this year.



"(Over the previous years) the amount of the R&D budget has been rising 10.9 percent annually on average. Amid the sharp expansion of the budget, there have been some leakages and ineffective projects," the finance minister said.



Instead, the government vowed to focus its investment on cutting-edge areas with a goal of investing 5 trillion won in 12 key areas, including artificial intelligence, biotechnology and chips, marking a 6.3 percent rise on-year.



As for the welfare segment, the government plans to raise its budget by 7.5 percent to 242.8 trillion won to offer more support to vulnerable people.





Unification ministry seeks 28% cut in 2024 budget for inter-Korean cooperation fund S. Korea seeks 4.5% rise in defense budget for 2024 Gov't to seek tighter budget, prioritize fiscal soundness "Our intention is to take proactive steps by reinvesting the funds conserved through financial normalization into welfare initiatives for vulnerable individuals, fostering private sector growth and supporting projects focused on improving livelihoods," Choo said.



In line with its efforts, South Korea plans to raise the amount of basic living assistance by 13.2 percent, while offering such benefits to around 45,000 additional households by lowering requirements.



Finance Minister Choo Kyung-ho speaks during a press briefing on South Korea's 2024 budget in the central city of Sejong, Aug. 24. Yonhap

This would allow a four-member vulnerable household to receive 1.84 million monthly, compared with the current benefits of 1.62 million won.



To address climate change and seek low-carbon growth, the government allocated 12.5 trillion won for the environment sector, including the budget to speed up the installation of charging stations for electric and hydrogen-powered automobiles.



As for the industrial sectors, South Korea plans to spend 27.2 trillion won on the area in 2024, up 4.9 percent on-year, which will include support for exporters.



The government will spend 1.9 trillion won to speed up the recovery of exports, up from this year's 1.5 trillion won.



The budget for official development assistance will be expanded to 6.5 trillion won from the previous 4.5 trillion won.



The government set aside 59.5 trillion won for the defense budget, up 4.5 percent from this year, amid North Korea's evolving nuclear and missile threats.



The 2024 budget includes 7.6 trillion won for diplomatic policies, including official development assistance programs, along with efforts to raise global awareness of North Korean human rights issues.



The amount includes 130 billion won for reconstruction projects in Ukraine.



South Korea's managed fiscal balance, meanwhile, is expected to reach a deficit of 92 trillion won in 2024, expanding from the shortfall of 58.2 trillion won this year. The deficit would be equivalent to 3.9 percent of the gross domestic product (GDP) in 2024, compared with 2.6 percent estimated for this year.



South Korea's national debt is expected to reach 1,196.2 trillion won next year, up from 1,134.4 trillion won in 2023. The debt-to-GDP ratio will slightly rise to 51 percent from 50.4 percent.



The government set the goal of reducing the fiscal deficit to around 2.5 percent of GDP by 2027, improving from 2.6 percent in 2023.




The Meltwater Entrepreneurial School of Technology Africa (Mest Africa) in partnership with Absa Bank, has announced the opening for applications for the Mest Africa Challenge Startup Pitch Competition.

ource: The Meltwater Entrepreneurial School of Technology (Mest Africa)

Early-stage technology startups operational in Ghana, Nigeria, Senegal, Kenya, and South Africa are invited to participate in this competition to showcase their innovative businesses and entrepreneurial prowess. The application period begins today and will close on 9 October 2023.

The Mest Africa Challenge offers exceptional benefits to participating startups. The winner will receive a substantial equity investment of USD 50,000, providing crucial financial support to accelerate their business growth.

In addition, the winner and other outstanding participants will gain access to Mest Africa's global community and networks, unlocking valuable partnerships, mentorship, and investment opportunities. This platform catalyses startups to unlock the next phase of their business growth and gain global recognition.

Building upon the success of the previous years, the 2022 Mest Africa Challenge crowned Kwely, a B2B e-commerce startup from Senegal, as the winner (https://apo-opa.info/3qLY7gV). Kwely's groundbreaking solutions stood out among the fierce competition, and their success serves as an inspiration to entrepreneurs across Africa.

"This years tagline, 'Unlock Your Startup Potential', resonates deeply with the vibrant technology landscape we are witnessing in Africa today. With the remarkable advancements in technology innovation and adoption across the continent, this year's competition is poised to showcase groundbreaking ideas and solutions.

"I am confident that the Mest Africa Challenge will uncover exceptional startups that will shape the future and drive positive change in Africa and beyond," said Ashwin Ravichandran, portfolio advisor and Mest Africa Challenge Lead.

Over the years, the Mest Africa Challenge pitch competition has garnered thousands of applications from across the continent, attaining global recognition and forging partnerships, while nurturing a thriving community of African tech founders.

It has spotlighted and impacted the growth of winning startups such as Tanzanias Kilimo Fresh, Ghanas OZE, South Africas Snode Technologies, Kenyas Waya Waya, Nigerias Accounteer, and reigning title holder, Kwely from Senegal.

Eligibility criteria for MAC 2023:

Monthly recurring revenue: $5k+

Funding raised: Cumulative $1m or less

Years of existence: three years and below

Traction: At least six months of recurring revenue

Founding team: At least two founding team members

Registered in Delaware (This is preferred)

Demonstrated traction in MAC Markets (Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria, South Africa, Senegal)

Learn more and apply here.
The New York Times revealed a group of Silicon Valley billionaires are behind the $800 million in land purchases, or about the size of two San Franciscos, around Travis Air Force Base in Solano County, California.

We previously covered the mysterious Flannery Associates, which has quietly amassed a staggering 55,000-acre farmland portfolio encircling three sides of the military base. The landowners weren't previously known until now:

Billionaire venture capitalist Michael Moritz, Reid Hoffman, the LinkedIn co-founder, venture capitalist and Democratic donor; Marc Andreessen and Chris Dixon, investors at the Andreessen Horowitz venture capital firm; Patrick and John Collison, the sibling co-founders of the payments company Stripe; Laurene Powell Jobs, founder of the Emerson Collective; and Nat Friedman and Daniel Gross, entrepreneurs turned investors. --NYT

Brian Brokaw, a representative of Flannery Associates, stated the investor group is mainly "Californians who believe that Solano County's and California's best days are ahead." He said the group will begin talking with Solano County leaders, residents, and Air Force officials next week.

ABC7 News I-Team learned Flannery Associates has purchased a total of 55,000 acres of dry farmland that have been acquired since 2018.

ABC7's Stephanie Sierra asked a local official: "Have you seen anything like this in your career?"

"No, I definitely haven't," responded Glenn Zook, Solano County's Assessor.

Zook continued, "We see a lot of investors. There's usually a target, a plan, but there doesn't seem to be that in this case, other than targeting the specific area, which happens to be around the Air Force Base."

One local rancher told the San Francisco Chronicle that Flannery Associates' buying spree "was like a hostile takeover ... it was Shakespearian, a 'Game of Thrones' kind of thing."

NYT said in 2017, one of the venture capitalists sent a pitch deck to potential investors, describing: "A chance to invest in the creation of a new California city."

As San Francisco implodes under the weight of crime and Democrat dysfunction, tech billionaires are pivoting, setting their sights on building a new 'smart city' on the outskirts of the Bay Area. Perhaps it's cheaper to build a new metro area rather than salvage the sinking ship that is San Francisco.




Korea's terms of trade rose for the second month in a row in July as import costs fell at a faster pace than export prices, central bank data showed Tuesday.







The country's net terms-of-trade index for goods  a gauge of overall trade terms  came to 86.90 last month, up 5.1 percent from a year ago, according to the preliminary data from the Bank of Korea (BOK).







The figure marked on-year growth in June for the first time since March 2021.







The index shows the amount of imports a country can buy for each unit of exports, with a lower figure meaning worse trade terms.







It is calculated by dividing the index for export prices by that for import prices.







July's improvement came as import prices sank 16.8 percent on-year due mainly to the decrease in global oil prices, while export prices went down 12.6 percent, the BOK said.







Korea's exports fell for the 10th consecutive month in July as global demand for semiconductors and other major items remained weak amid an economic slowdown.







Outbound shipments fell 16.5 percent on-year to $50.33 billion last month, with exports of semiconductors sinking nearly 34 percent, according to the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy. (Yonhap)


Gershkovich, who was based in Moscow, was arrested by the Russian authorities five months ago while on assignment in the city of Yekaterinburg in the east of the country and charged with espionage, although no evidence has been presented. Today he remains behind bars in Moscow, in pretrial detention for at least another three months, in spite of repeated calls for his release from the White House, US lawmakers, the United Nations, international media organizations, and others.

"Journalism is Not a Crime," a community conversation will be held on campus on September 26 to talk about Gershkovich, his work as a journalist, his life as a student, and the broader theme of the challenges facing independent journalism in places like Russia. The event is the brainchild of Gershkovichs Bowdoin friends and fellow journalists Linda Kinstler 13 and Nora Biette-Timmons 14. The gathering, they said, will be a chance to bring Gershkovichs friends, teachers, colleagues, and supporters from Bowdoin and beyond together to rally support for Evan, and to underscore the threats to journalists all over the world.

Our friend and colleague Evan has been imprisoned in Moscow for five months, simply because he was doing his job, said Kinstler. We want to make sure that Evan comes home as soon as possible, and want him to know that we are thinking about him and keeping his case front of mind.

The discussion panel, to be moderated by Professor of Government and Asian Studies Henry Laurence, will include A. Leroy Greason Professor of English Brock Clarke, who has fond memories of teaching Gershkovich in his creative writing class. I thought the world of Evan when he was a student, and I think the world of him as a journalist, and a human being. I look forward to talking and hearing more about him on the twenty-sixth, said Clarke.

The panel is also due to feature the WSJs Washington editor, Paul Beckett. What happened to Evan, said Beckett, is indicative of the increasing risks faced by journalists around the world, and it's critical we continue to highlight not only his case but also how this sort of assault on journalism ultimately impacts everyone. Press freedom is absolutely essential for a free society, and we're grateful for all of Bowdoin's support for Evan as well as the opportunity to bring this important discussion to campus."

Having so many people come together from different parts of Evans life to plan this event was very important to us, and we are so grateful to everyone whos helped make it happen, said Biette-Timmons.

The event will be held Tuesday, September 26, 7:30 p.m.8:45 p.m., in Pickard Theater, Memorial Hall, and will be livestreamed at bowdoin.edu/live.
President Yoon Suk Yeol bangs a gavel as he begins a weekly Cabinet meeting at the presidential office in Yongsan District in central Seoul, Tuesday. Yonhap



2024 budget to increase 2.8%, marking slowest growth in 18 years



By Yi Whan-woo



The government plans to increase the national budget by 2.8 percent in 2024 compared to this year _ the smallest rate of growth in nearly two decades _ as it pursues belt-tightening measures to improve fiscal health amid an economic slowdown.



The Ministry of Economy and Finance on Tuesday proposed a budget of 656.9 trillion won ($495 billion) for 2024, compared to 638.7 trillion won this year.



The year-on-year increase will be the smallest seen since 2005.



The rate also marks a sharp fall from a 5.1 percent year-on-year increase in 2023, when the Yoon Suk Yeol administration reduced national expenditures from a year earlier to shift away from the pandemic-era stimulus policy embraced by the previous Moon Jae-in government.



The 2024 budget plan reflects an accelerated drop in tax revenues under the government's goal of easing the tax burden on businesses under Yoon's market-driven economic vision.



The budget estimates tax revenues to drop by a record 8.3 percent in 2024, and subsequently bring down total government income by 2.2 percent to 612.1 trillion won.



Endorsed by the Cabinet, Tuesday, the proposed budget will be submitted to the National Assembly for approval, Friday.







"The government has made a complete transition to a policy of improving fiscal soundness, while strongly rejecting the (reckless) expansionary policy," Yoon said during a weekly Cabinet meeting.



He added that his government will "reduce the debt burden on future generations and instead bolster efforts for a transformation into a market-oriented and private sector-driven economy."









Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy and Finance Choo Kyung-ho warned that the "reckless management of the national budget will deteriorate our external fiscal credibility, while burdening the future generation excessively, especially at a time of challenges to fiscal health."



The finance minister was referring to an estimated 58.2 trillion won shortfall in the fiscal balance for this year, which would lead to a fiscal deficit-to-GDP ratio of 2.6 percent.



In 2024, the fiscal deficit is expected to expand to 92 trillion won and the ratio of the deficit to GDP is forecast to reach 3.9 percent.



The 2024 deficit would surpass a 3-percent target set under the government's envisioned fiscal rule. The government eventually wants to reduce the fiscal deficit to around 2.5 percent of GDP by 2027, the final year of Yoon's presidency.



"Taking such unfavorable financial circumstances into account, the government will firmly adhere to the principle of improving financial soundness while making sure the budget is spent for the right purposes concerning economic revitalization, future, public safety, defense, among others," Choo said.





Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy and Finance Choo Kyung-ho speaks during a preliminary briefing on the 2024 budget proposal at Government Complex Sejong, Thursday. Yonhap
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US actors union Sag-Aftra has said its negotiating team remains ready at a moments notice to go back to the bargaining table to secure a righteous deal.

A statement from negotiators said the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP) appeared to be unwilling to make necessary concessions.

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The union, which represents around 160,000 members of the industry, has been on strike since July 14, causing a major stalling of multiple Hollywood productions.

Striking writers and actors take part in a rally outside Paramount studios in Los Angeles. Photo: AP Photo/Chris Pizzello, File.

A statement put out by Sag-Aftra negotiators on Monday said union solidarity is more important than ever.

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As the strike continues, we are constantly inspired by your strength and numbers on the picket lines and your support on social media, the statement read.

Sag-Aftras negotiating team remains ready at a moments notice to go back to the bargaining table to secure a righteous deal.

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Unfortunately, as weve seen from the recent news out of the WGA (Writers Guild of America) negotiations, it appears the AMPTP is still unwilling to make the concessions necessary to make a fair deal that would bring the strikes to a close.

Our solidarity remains more important than ever.

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Interim Agreements are weakening the position of the AMPTP. Once an Interim Agreement is in place with an Independent Producer we fully encourage #SagAftraMembers to work under that agreement AND to promote work made under that agreement.

Read more https://t.co/gpsV8SR6hh  SAG-AFTRA (@sagaftra) August 28, 2023

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Last week the WGA rejected a counter-offer by the AMPTP saying the proposals were neither nothing nor nearly enough.

Since the beginning of the strike, some independent productions have been granted interim agreements to allow them to resume.

Sag-Aftra chief negotiator Duncan Crabtree-Ireland previously said the agreements were introduced to give journeymen performers and crew the opportunity to pay their bills and put food on the table by working on these indie projects.

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Mondays statement from negotiators also urged members to stop negative comments about people promoting projects under interim agreements.

Whether from within or without our organisation, not only are remarks of this nature unhelpful to performers, but by dividing us, they do the AMPTPs work for them, the statement said.

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To be crystal clear, once an agreement is in place, we fully encourage all of our Sag-Aftra members to work under that agreement AND to promote work made under that agreement.

The more projects that get made with the interim agreement, the weaker the AMPTP becomes. So, lets lift up our fellow performers who are out there working.
An Irish holidaymaker has been found dead at his hotel room in the party resort of San Antonio on Ibiza.

Initial reports pointed to the tourist being British. But on Tuesday police described the dead man as a 34-year-old Irish national.

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The man was staying at the four-star Hotel Tropical in the centre of San Antonio.

Hotel sources have also confirmed the holidaymaker was Irish, although the hotel has said it will not be making any official comment.

An ongoing investigation into the unnamed tourists death is ongoing.

Sources close to the probe have confirmed local reports referring to the possibility of a "drug overdose" that the idea it is drug-related is being looked at.

A spokesman for the Civil Guard confirmed today: I can confirm we are investigating the death of an Irish national at a hotel in San Antonio in Ibiza.

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"The autopsy will help investigators determine the cause of death."

The alarm was raised just before 4pm on Monday. Emergency responders rushed to the hotel, but the man was pronounced dead at the scene.

He is said to have been staying with friends at the hotel, with sources saying they had interviewed a cousin.

A spokesperson for the Department of Foreign Affairs said: "The Department of Foreign Affairs is aware of the case and providing consular assistance.

"As with all consular cases, the Department does not comment on the details of individual cases."
Two children who were at the centre of a parental court fight have left England and returned to Ireland after a judge concluded that their mother had plotted to abduct them in breach of their fathers custody rights.

Judge Dexter Dias has explained how the childrens mother had brought them to England from their home in Ireland without the knowledge or consent of their father.

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The judge ordered their return after the man took legal action in London.

He concluded that the woman had acted in a deeply deceitful and manipulative fashion throughout  starting with an inexcusable plot to abduct the children by deception.

Judge Dias has outlined detail of the case in a written ruling published online after considering evidence at private hearings in the Family Division of the UK High Court  at the Royal Courts of Justice complex in London  earlier this summer.

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He said the children had now returned to Ireland with the mother.

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The judge, who has not identified the family involved, said the woman had failed in a bid to overturn his return order in the UK Court of Appeal.

Two children who were at the centre of a court custody fight have left England and returned to the Republic after a UK judge concluded that their mother had plotted to abduct them in breach of their fathers rights. Photo: Aaron Chown/PA

He said the woman had brought the children to England in late 2022.

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Their father had asked him to order their return to Ireland.

The judge said their mother had argued against a move back to Ireland and said they would be at grave risk of harm if returned.

Judge Dias rejected her arguments and ruled in favour of their father.

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They were brought by their mother without the knowledge or consent of their father, said Judge Dias.

The mother has acted in a deeply deceitful and manipulative fashion throughout this case, starting with her inexcusable plot to abduct the children by deception, while enlisting them both in the dishonesty.

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He added: She has tried everything to ensure that the abducted children remain in the UK in serious breach of their fathers rights of custody.
The logo of Upbit, the nation's largest crypto exchange, is seen in front of its headquarters in Seoul in this undated file photo. Yonhap



By Lee Min-hyung



Small startups with little capital will no longer be able to launch crypto exchanges here, as only those with a reserve fund of at least 3 billion won ($2.27 million) can operate crypto exchanges from September.



The rule  introduced by the Korea Federation of Banks  will become effective from Sept. 1, with a view to ensuring the safety of customers against possible losses incurred from exchange security breaches or network problems.



The fund will be used to provide immediate compensation to users in case of such financial fiasco. Exchanges should also set aside 30 percent of their users' daily average deposit if the figure tops 3 billion won. They should do so with a maximum reserve of 20 billion won.



This means major exchanges  such as Upbit  should pile up more than 3 billion won for the reserve fund.



The introduction of the regulation will prevent smaller players without ample capital reserves from expanding their business into exchange operations.



This came as a responsive measure to minimize customers' possible losses at a time when even some once-promising overseas exchanges such as FTX filed for bankruptcy abruptly.



The collapse of globally popular cryptocurrencies, including Luna, led to calls for financial watchdogs to toughen rules on the operation of crypto exchanges here, as investors cannot receive complete compensation from any crypto-related fiascos due to the lack of a regulatory system.



The initial operational cost will rise further for any companies preparing to launch new exchanges here, as they are required to build an anti-money laundering system for more secure operation of their trading services.



Industry officials said few small startups will push for the launch of crypto exchanges due to the heightened regulatory hurdle.



"The crypto market is already being dominated by only five major exchanges whose market share reaches more than 99 percent here," a crypto industry source said. "It will be extremely tough for any small companies to generate noteworthy outcomes by launching their own exchange, as not just the top five major exchanges, but some other overseas counterparts  including the world's largest exchange, Binance, are also seeking to expand their footing in the Korean market."


Politicians are eagerly awaiting the results of a constituency boundary review which could decide the electoral fates of many TDs and ministers.

The much-anticipated new constituency boundaries will see the number of seats in Dail Eireann increase from 160 TDs to at least 172 or as many as 181.

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The redrawing of boundaries has been prompted by a boom in the population to 5.15 million, as shown in Census 2022  an increase of 8 per cent in four years.

As the Irish constitution says there needs to be one TD to represent every 20,000 to 30,000 people in Ireland, the constituency boundaries will shift  though to what extent is still unknown.

Asked whether he was nervous about the outcome of the review, Minister for Finance Michael McGrath said they were eagerly awaiting the outcome of the review, but added well cross every bridge when we come to it.

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Want to learn about Ireland's #ConstituencyReview23? 



What is a Constituency Review?



Why is @ElecCommIRL carrying one out?



When will we make our recommendations?



Find out more from Tim, our Head of Electoral Operations.



Part 1 of 2@Ireland_Votes @OireachtasNews pic.twitter.com/N08Gd3yjUW  An Coimisiun Toghchain, The Electoral Commission (@ElecCommIRL) August 21, 2023

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Ill sleep soundly tonight, he said.

The Fianna Fail TD, whose Cork South-Central constituency is a four-seater, said the review would be accepted and implemented even if the ball bounces in a way you dont want it to.

Youve just got to take it on the chin and move on.

His junior ministerial colleague and Mayo TD Dara Calleary added: Ive always taken the view we cant control it.

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We control the controllables and what happens tomorrow morning will happen, well deal with it afterwards.

But not only that. It is important that each one of our TDs  from Donegal to Kerry  represents a similar number of people. More on this here: https://t.co/FPppXkTnuX #ConstituencyReview23@citizensinfo pic.twitter.com/nVjbg06hBJ  An Coimisiun Toghchain, The Electoral Commission (@ElecCommIRL) August 28, 2023 Advertisement

According to electoral laws, each constituency should have between three and five elected members, with three-seaters seen as advantageous to large political parties and five-seaters an easier job for smaller parties and independents to get over the quota threshold.

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Any change in population that means more than six seats are needed could see parts of one constituency added to another, or one five-seat constituency cut into two three-seat constituencies  which threatens to split elected candidates votes.

The law says a redrawing of constituencies which breaches county boundaries should be avoided where possible, it should follow geographical markers, and should be as much continuity of electoral areas as possible.

The Electoral Commission has received 556 submissions from elected representatives, political parties and academics about the redrawing of boundaries, representing what Minister for Public Expenditure Paschal Donohoe called red-hot interest in the issue.

Asked whether there should eventually be a cap on the number of TDs in the Dail, Mr McGrath said: I think it would be interesting to hear what the [Electoral] Commission have to say on that matter tomorrow because of course, that formed very directly a part of their consideration.

Follow us here to see the changes were suggesting and our reasons for suggesting them. https://t.co/HbHinhwXCD #ConstituencyReview23  An Coimisiun Toghchain, The Electoral Commission (@ElecCommIRL) August 29, 2023

I would make the point overall that the bands that we have currently in the constitution has formed the basis of representation.

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And if you were to increase the amount of population per TD, it will inevitably have a consequence on the ability of an individual member to provide a quality service, and our constituents do like direct contact.

They like personal engagement with their Oireachtas members.

So lets wait and see what the Commission say on that issue tomorrow, but Id be very reluctant to tamper with a structure that I think has served us well since the foundation of the state.

Local council and European Parliament elections will be held next summer.

A general election is heavily rumoured to be set for November next year, after the final Budget of the three-party coalition Government is officially confirmed.
A sex offender who came to Ireland for a holiday and rented an apartment in Dun Laoghaire has been released on bail pending trial for failing to notify gardai that he was in the State.

Randi Dextroy Gladston (39), a Guyana national of no fixed abode but living in Suriname, had been deported from the UK in 2015 after being placed on the sex offenders register there.

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The construction worker appeared before Judge John Brennan at Dublin District Court on Tuesday and faced bail objections on flight risk grounds.

Divisional Protective Services unit garda Lee Kelly told Judge Brennan the accused's case is to be dealt with on indictment at the Circuit Court level, which has wider sentencing powers. The offence can carry a five-year sentence.

He said Mr Gladston had told him he had family in Suriname and he was due to get married to his partner there in three weeks.

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Garda Kelly told the court Mr Gladston had booked accommodation in Dun Laoghaire for two weeks commencing on August 11th and had no ties to this jurisdiction. He booked an extra day in his 600-a-week accommodation, the court heard.

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Garda Lee alleged Gladston, who is a father, attempted to get a ferry to the UK on August 26th but was refused access. He had been deported from the UK eight years ago after he was placed on the sex offenders registrar there for an indefinite period.

The court heard he had 545 on him at the time of his arrest.

The garda said that under the law, the accused should have notified gardai of his presence in the State within seven days. Gardai were also unaware of how he came to Ireland, the court heard.

Pleading for bail, defence counsel Kevin McCrave said his client had been on holiday to meet with relatives coming over from the UK.

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The barrister explained that Gladston had missed his flight and then went on the ferry to get to Paris to catch a cheap flight back to Suriname, where he lives.

He added that Gladston wished to have the case dealt with quickly, would plead guilty and abide by any terms the court imposed.

Judge Brennan released him on 500 bail and ordered him to notify gardai of his new address, sign on three days a week at the local garda station, surrender his passport and provide gardai with a contact phone number.

Gladston, who did not address the court, was granted legal aid and ordered to appear again on October 10th.
London has become the worlds largest pollution charging area after the ultra-low emission zone (Ulez) was expanded to include the whole of the capital.

People who drive in the zone in a vehicle which does not meet minimum emissions standards are now required to pay a 12.50 daily fee or risk a 180 fine, reduced to 90 if paid within 14 days.

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London mayor Sadiq Khan has faced strong opposition to the scheme, although a 160 million scheme run by Transport for London (TfL) enables residents, small businesses, sole traders and charities scrapping non-compliant cars to claim grants.

People take part in a protest against the proposed ultra-low emission zone (Ulez) expansion in Tooting, London. Photo: PA.

There have been regular protests against the plan and anti-Ulez vigilantes have repeatedly targeted enforcement cameras installed in the new areas in recent months.

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Videos have been posted online showing people described as Blade Runners cutting the cameras wires or completely removing the devices.

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The Metropolitan Police said it had recorded 288 crimes relating to the cameras as of August 1st.

Ulez expansion has become a political issue, being blamed for Labours failure to win last months Uxbridge and South Ruislip parliamentary by-election.

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Mayor of London Sadiq Khan. Photo: PA.

In an interview with the PA news agency, the Labour mayor said: The vast majority of Londoners want to see clean air and I recognise there are some Londoners with genuine concerns.

My job is to try and address those concerns and I have been doing that.

Mr Khan said he was disappointed at the lack of Government support for the policy and its accompanying scrappage scheme.

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He expressed frustration that the scrappage programme has no Government funding, unlike those run in several other English cities.

PA

He said: It was this government that gave financial support to cities like Bristol, Birmingham and Portsmouth towards their clean air zones.

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If clean air is right for them then why isnt clean air right for London?

A British government spokeswoman said: Both transport and air quality are devolved to London, which is why they are the direct responsibility of the Mayor of London.

In fact, the Government has provided TfL 6 billion since 2020 to keep public transport moving and almost 102 million for projects specifically targeted to help tackle air pollution.

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To comply with Ulez standards, petrol cars must generally have been first registered after 2005, while most diesel cars registered after September 2015 are also exempt from the charge.

TfL says nine out of 10 cars seen driving in outer London on an average day are compliant.

Separate figures obtained by the RAC show more than 690,000 licensed cars in the whole of London are likely to be non-compliant.

This does not take into account other types of vehicles or those which enter London from neighbouring counties.

Some opponents of Ulez expansion claim the policy is aimed at generating money for TfL and criticised the mayor for introducing it during the cost of living crisis.

But Mr Khan told PA: Its really heartbreaking when you get an in-patients ward and see the consequences of air pollution, but also it is inspiring to see that some of these policies can transform peoples lives.
At least 183 people have been killed in clashes in Ethiopias Amhara region since July as Amhara fighters resist efforts by the federal government to disband them, the United Nations human rights office has said.

The UN office also said on Tuesday that the human rights situation in Ethiopia is deteriorating, with more than 1,000 people reportedly arrested under a state of emergency declared early this month over the unrest.

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Many of those detained were reported to be young people of Amhara ethnic origin suspected of being Fano supporters, the UN office said, referring to the name of the Amhara militia.

Since early August, mass house-to-house searches have reportedly been taking place, and at least three Ethiopian journalists covering the situation in the Amhara region have been detained.

The UN statement said detainees have reportedly been held in improvised detention centres without basic amenities.

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It called for those arbitrarily detained to be released and for authorities to stop mass arrests.

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#Ethiopia: Were very concerned by the deteriorating #humanrights situation in several regions of the country. We call on authorities to stop mass arrests, ensure that any deprivation of liberty is judicially reviewed, & release those arbitrarily detainedhttps://t.co/LI5LS6xR4U pic.twitter.com/Vy4BnyaVhc  UN Human Rights (@UNHumanRights) August 29, 2023

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The human rights office called for an end to the fighting as the military retakes towns that had been seized by the Amhara fighters and militia members flee into rural areas.

In one of the deadliest incidents, a health official earlier this month told the Associated Press that an air strike on a crowded town square in the Finote Selam community killed at least 26 people. The federal government did not comment.

Amhara fighters had fought alongside the military in the two-year conflict in Ethiopias northern Tigray region which ended in November with a peace agreement.

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The conflict spilled into the Amhara region when Tigray forces at one point tried to approach the capital, Addis Ababa.

Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has struggled for years to contain various conflicts often along ethnic lines.

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The country, Africas second most populous, has long been seen as an important security partner in the Horn of Africa, but the government has criticised or limited outside efforts  including by UN investigators  to understand the toll of abuses in the conflicts.
A Canadian national accused of selling lethal substances to assist people across the world with suicide, including in Ireland, has been charged with 12 further offences.

Kenneth Law was arrested in Ontario and initially charged with two counts of counselling and aiding suicide after allegedly selling 1,200 packages to 40 countries.

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In a press conference on Tuesday, Inspector Simon James of York Police in Canada announced 11 police forces in Ontario were investigating the 57-year-old.

He said Law had allegedly being using the websites to sell the lethal substances since late 2020.

The officer told reporters the new charges relate to the province of Ontario only and each related to a person who had died.

Law is also being investigated by police in the United States, Italy, Australia and New Zealand.

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At the press conference, Inspector James told reporters the force was regularly in contact with police services from outside of the country.

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Before Tuesdays extra charges, Law appeared in court in Brampton, Ontario on Friday for a brief bail hearing.

The defendant, of Mississauga, Ontario, is due to appear at the same court on September 8th.

Anyone who needs support can call Samaritans free of charge on 116 123, email jo@samaritans.org, or visit the Samaritans website.
More than 70 wrongfully convicted people from across the US have expressed their support for Adnan Syed, whose protracted legal saga received widespread attention from the Serial podcast.

His case has pitted crime victims rights advocates against proponents of criminal justice reform.

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In a brief filed on Monday with the state of Marylands highest court, the exonerees  who together have spent more than 1,220 years in prison for crimes they did not commit  highlighted the devastating impacts of a flawed criminal justice system.

They described the hurdles they encountered upon release from prison, including barriers to employment, financial and housing insecurity, lost time with family, and severed social connections.



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All exonerees and their loved ones are also victims, wrote lawyers with Georgetown Universitys Prisons and Justice Initiative, where Mr Syed has worked since his release from prison last year.

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Adnan Syed should not be exposed to any further suffering by being denied the opportunity to move forward and live his life.

Recent court filings present opposing notions of the decades-old murder case as it continues crawling through the appeal process.

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The case is currently pending before the Maryland Supreme Court, which will consider whether a lower court violated the rights of Young Lee, whose sister Hae Min Lee was killed in 1999.

Mr Syed, her high school ex-boyfriend, was convicted of murder the following year and sentenced to life in prison. He remained behind bars until last September, when a judge vacated his conviction because Baltimore prosecutors found flaws in the evidence against him.

The Lee family appealed against that decision, asserting the rights of crime victims and seeking a redo of the proceeding that won Mr Syed his freedom after 23 years in prison.

The Appellate Court of Maryland largely affirmed their arguments, reinstated Mr

Syeds conviction and called for a new vacated hearing  a decision both parties have since appealed against for different reasons.

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The Maryland Supreme Court will consider their appeals during oral arguments on October 5.



Adnan Syed leaves court after Baltimore Circuit Judge Melissa Phinn overturned his first-degree murder conviction in the 1999 killing of Hae Min Lee (Jerry Jackson/The Baltimore Sun/TNS/Alamy Live News/PA)

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Citing a state law that says victims must be treated with dignity and respect, attorneys for Young Lee claim he received insufficient notice about the vacated hearing, which was scheduled on a Friday for the following Monday. He was unable to attend in person because he lives on the West Coast, although he was allowed to make a statement via video conference.

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The court ran roughshod over these rights in the parties apparent zeal to free Mr Syed unimpeded, Mr Lees lawyers wrote in a brief filed on Monday, part of the latest iterations of court papers as the case drags on.

In a supporting brief, lawyers with the National Crime Victim Law Institute cited blatant disregard for the victim in this case, though they also acknowledged the potential challenges of developing a legal definition of dignity.

Meanwhile, attorneys for Mr Syed want the states highest court to reverse the appellate court decision that reinstated his conviction and ordered a redo of the vacated hearing.

Mr Syed has remained free pending a resolution to the ongoing appeal proceedings, but he still faces the possibility of returning to prison in the future.

The terrifying specter of reincarceration has hung over Mr Syeds head every day for the past 10 months, his lawyers wrote in a recent appellate brief.

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They argued the Lee family did receive sufficient notice about the hearing and, furthermore, that their appeal was rendered moot when prosecutors decided not to recharge Mr Syed after his conviction was vacated last year.

They also argued that even if Young Lees rights were violated, he has not demonstrated whether the alleged violation would have changed the outcome of the hearing.

Both parties appealed to the Maryland Supreme Court after the Appellate Court of Maryland mostly sided with the Lee family. In a 2-1 decision, the court found Young Lee received insufficient notice to attend the vacatur hearing in person.

But the judges also said state law does not guarantee crime victims a right to be heard during the hearings  a decision that falls to the presiding judge.

Allowing victims to present evidence or otherwise engage substantively would result in a huge shift in practice, the judges ruled.

Mr Lees appeal asks the higher court to reconsider that piece of the ruling and to expand the role of victims during such proceedings. Experts say a shift toward victims rights could stymie reform efforts amid a growing movement within the American criminal justice system to acknowledge and correct past mistakes, including police misconduct and prosecutorial missteps.

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In Syeds case, Baltimore prosecutors started reviewing his files under a Maryland law targeting so-called juvenile lifers because he was 17 when Hae Min Lee was found strangled to death and buried in a makeshift grave.

Many states have passed similar laws in recent years since the US Supreme Court prohibited mandatory life sentences for children convicted of serious crimes.

The prosecutors review uncovered numerous problems, including alternative suspects and unreliable evidence presented at trial. Instead of reconsidering his sentence, prosecutors filed a motion to vacate Mr Syeds conviction entirely.

If his conviction is again vacated once the appeal is resolved, prosecutors could still seek new charges and potentially retry the case.
A massive wildfire was burning unabated in north-eastern Greece for the 11th day on Tuesday despite the efforts of hundreds of firefighters and a fleet of water-dropping aircraft.

After burning across vast tracts of land, the blaze in the Alexandroupolis and Evros region was mainly concentrated deep in a forest near the border with Turkey, in an area difficult to access.

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The wildfire has been blamed for 20 of the 21 wildfire-related deaths in Greece last week.



A scooter burned by a wildfire in Acharnes suburb, on Mount Parnitha, in north-western Athens (Michael Varaklas/AP)

Six planes and four helicopters were assisting 475 firefighters on the ground, backed by 100 vehicles, the fire department said.

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Another 260 firefighters and one helicopter were tackling flare-ups of another major blaze burning for days in a forest on the southern slopes of Mount Parnitha, on the fringes of the Greek capital.

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Authorities are investigating the causes of the fires, which over the past week have destroyed vast tracts of forest, scorched homes and triggered the evacuation of thousands of people.

In Athens, Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis was holding a government meeting on how to rehabilitate the burnt forests in Evros and Parnitha.





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Find out more. https://t.co/Rhiz7BdhMA  EU Civil Protection & Humanitarian Aid  (@eu_echo) August 29, 2023

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With firefighting forces stretched to the limit, Greece has called for help from other European countries, receiving aircraft and hundreds of firefighters from across the continent.

France and Spain were sending additional aircraft to join those already sent from Germany, Sweden, Croatia, Cyprus and the Czech Republic under the European Unions emergency response mechanism.

In total, we have mobilised 12 aircraft stationed in seven member states. This is the biggest rescEU aerial firefighting operation to date since the emergency response mechanism was launched in 2019, the EU Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid authority said on Monday on X, the social media platform formerly known as Twitter.





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Update #EMSR686 #Greece



Our #RapidMappingTeam delivered its 6th Monitoring Product for the historic #wildfire that continues to ravage the areas north of #Alexandroupolis



A total burnt area of 808,7 km2 has been detected, an area larger than #NewYorkCity pic.twitter.com/Sy8U8skyfJ Advertisement  Copernicus EMS (@CopernicusEMS) August 29, 2023

More than 350 firefighters have also been sent to Greece from Romania, France, the Czech Republic, Bulgaria, Albania, Slovakia and Serbia.

The Alexandroupolis and Evros wildfire, which broke out on August 19, had scorched more than 197,000 acres (80,000 hectares) of land by Monday night, according to the European Unions Copernicus Emergency Management Service.

Copernicus is the EU space programmes Earth observation component and uses satellite imagery to provide mapping data.

EU officials have described it as the largest single blaze recorded in the bloc since the European Forest Fire Information System began recording data in 2000.





Responding to the largest wildfires in EU history, we've activated a massive #rescEU operation in Greece.



 11 firefighting planes

 1 helicopter

 407 firefighters

 62 vehicles



In addition, in response to this weekend's explosion in Romania, 12 severe burn patients were pic.twitter.com/dO0OW14r2x  European Commission (@EU_Commission) August 29, 2023

Across Greece, firefighters were battling 87 wildfires on Tuesday, with 44 of them having broken out in the 24 hours between Monday evening and Tuesday evening, the fire department said.

Arson is suspected in some of the blazes, with several people arrested.

Greece imposes wildfire prevention regulations, typically from the start of May to the end of October, limiting activities such as the burning of dried vegetation and the use of outdoor barbecues.

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By Friday, fire department officials had arrested 163 people on fire-related charges since the start of the fire prevention season, government spokesman Pavlos Marinakis said, including 118 for negligence and 24 for deliberate arson. The police had made a further 18 arrests, he said.
A farewell ceremony for Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin, who was killed in a plane crash last week, took place behind closed doors, his spokespeople said on Tuesday in a short statement on social media.

Those who wish to bid their farewell to the mercenary leader should go to the Porokhovskoye cemetery in St Petersburg, his home town, the statement said.

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Earlier media reports about the funeral mentioned other cemeteries in the city as likely sites for the burial, which has been shrouded in secrecy.



Yevgeny Prigozhin was aboard a plane that crashed north of Moscow on August 23, killing all 10 people on board (Prigozhin Press Service via AP/PA)

It was not clear from the statement if Mr Prigozhin has already been buried or if it was still to happen.

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Earlier, the Kremlin said Russian President Vladimir Putin was not planning to attend a funeral for Mr Prigozhin, who challenged the Russian leaders authority in an armed rebellion in June.

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Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov would not give any details about the burial because it was a private family matter.

The tight secrecy and confusion surrounding the funeral of Mr Prigozhin and his top lieutenants reflected a dilemma faced by the Kremlin amid swirling speculation that the crash was likely a vendetta for his mutiny.

While it tried to avoid any pomp-filled ceremony for the man branded by Mr Putin as a traitor for his June 23-24 rebellion, the Kremlin could not afford to denigrate Mr Prigozhin, who was given Russias highest award for leading Wagner forces in Ukraine and was idolised by many of the countrys hawks.

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Mr Putins comments on Mr Prigozhins death reflected that careful stand. He noted last week that Wagner leaders made a significant contribution to the fighting in Ukraine and described Mr Prigozhin as a talented businessman and a man of difficult fate who had made serious mistakes in life.

Sergei Markov, a pro-Kremlin political analyst, noted that Mr Prigozhin has become a legendary figure for his supporters who are increasingly critical of the authorities.

Prigozhins funeral raises an issue of communication between the bureaucratic Russian government system that does not have much political potential and politically active patriotic segment of the Russian public, Mr Markov said.

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The countrys top criminal investigation agency, the Investigative Committee, officially confirmed Mr Prigozhins death on Sunday.

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The committee did not say what might have caused Mr Prigozhins business jet to plummet from the sky minutes after taking off from Moscow for St Petersburg. Just before the crash, Mr Prigozhin had returned from a trip to Africa, where he sought to expand Wagner Groups activities.



People mourn by the coffin of the Wagner Groups logistics chief Valery Chekalov during a funeral at the Severnoye cemetery in St Petersburg, Russia, on Tuesday (Dmitri Lovetsky/AP/PA)

Also on Tuesday, a funeral was held at St Petersburgs Northern Cemetery for Wagners logistics chief Valery Chekalov, who died in the August 23 crash alongside Mr Prigozin.

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Mr Prigozhins second-in-command, Dmitry Utkin, a retired military intelligence officer who gave the mercenary group its name based on his own nom de guerre, was also among the 10 people killed in the crash.

A preliminary US intelligence assessment concluded that an intentional explosion caused the plane to crash, and Western officials have pointed to a long list of Mr Putins foes who have been assassinated.

The Kremlin rejected Western allegations the president was behind the crash as an absolute lie.

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The crash came exactly two months after the brutal and profane mercenary boss launched a rebellion against the Russian military leadership.

Mr Prigozhin ordered his mercenaries to take over the military headquarters in the southern city of Rostov-on-Don and then began a march on Moscow. They downed several military aircraft, killing more than a dozen pilots.

Mr Putin denounced the revolt as treason and vowed to punish its perpetrators but hours later struck a deal that saw Mr Prigozhin ending the mutiny in exchange for amnesty and permission for him and his troops to move to Belarus.

The fate of Wagner, which until recently played a prominent role in Russias military campaign in Ukraine and was involved in a number of African and Middle Eastern countries, is uncertain.

Mr Putin said Wagner fighters could sign a contract with the Russian military, move to Belarus or retire from service. Several thousand have deployed to Belarus, where they are in a camp southeast of the capital, Minsk.
A Pakistani appeals court has suspended the corruption conviction and three-year prison sentence of Imran Khan in a legal victory for the embattled former prime minister, his lawyers and court officials said on Tuesday.

Although he will face a retrial in due course, the ruling will enable the popular 70-year-old politician to contest the forthcoming parliamentary elections.

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Khan has denied the charges, insisting he did not violate any rules.

Islamabad High Court also granted bail for Khan, but his detention will continue at least until Wednesday because of his arrest in another case for allegedly revealing official secrets.

It was not immediately clear if he will be released at all as he faces a multitude of other charges brought since he was ousted in a no-confidence vote in the parliament in April 2022.

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Lawyers and supporters of jailed former prime minister Imran Khan react after the ruling by Islamabad High Court (Anjum Naveed/AP)

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A member of Khans legal team, Shoaib Shaheen, said the court issued a brief verbal order, with a written ruling to be issued later.

Hours after the announcement, the Islamabad High Court in a written verdict said it was granting bail to Khan on the completion of a surety bond of 100,000 Pakistani rupees (260).

Khan was convicted and sentenced earlier this month by another court which found him guilty of concealing assets after selling state gifts he received while in office.

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Babar Awan, another of Khans senior lawyers, said after the announcement of the decision: Imran Khan is again entitled to lead his Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party after todays court order.

Earlier this month, Pakistans Election Commission had disqualified Khan from running for office for five years. Under Pakistans laws, no convicted person is eligible to lead a party, run in elections, or hold public office.

Since he was ousted, Khan has said his removal was a conspiracy by the United States, his successor, Shehbaz Sharif, and the Pakistani military  accusations they all deny.

Mr Sharif stepped down this month after the parliaments term ended.

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Babar Awan, a leading member of Imran Khans legal team, talks to the media outside Islamabad High Court (Anjum Naveed/AP)

Meanwhile, Pakistan is facing deepening economic and political turmoil.

The forthcoming vote has been complicated by an announcement by the election oversight body that polls must be delayed for at least three to four months because it needs more time to redraw constituencies to reflect the recently held census.

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Under the constitution, a vote is to be held in October or November.

Until then, caretaker-Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar is running the day-to-day affairs.

He has said he will ensure the vote is held in a free, fair and transparent manner.
A private burial was held for Yevgeny Prigozhin, ending a tumultuous journey from St Petersburg street thug to Kremlin-financed mercenary leader, following a suspicious plane crash two months after his brief mutiny that challenged the authority of President Vladimir Putin.

His spokespeople said on Tuesday that a service took place behind closed doors, and directed those who wish to bid their farewell to the 62-year-old head of the Wagner private military contractor to go to the Porokhovskoye cemetery in his home town.

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Their statement ended media speculation on where and when Mr Prigozhin would be laid to rest, with his funeral shrouded in secrecy.

A wooden cross towered over his grave covered with flowers and two flags nearby  a Russian tricolor and a black Wagner flag. Russian media cited unidentified sources as saying Mr Prigozhin was laid to rest on Tuesday without any publicity, as per his familys wishes.

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Wagner Group head Yevgeny Prigozhin was buried on Tuesday in a private ceremony (AP/PA)

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Members of the Russian National Guard stood along the fence at the cemetery, steering visitors away after it closed for the day.

Mr Putins spokesman said the president would not attend the service. The Russian leader had decried the armed rebellion in June as treason and a stab in the back.

The secrecy and confusion surrounding the funeral of Mr Prigozhin and his top lieutenants reflected a dilemma faced by the Kremlin amid swirling speculation that the crash was likely a vendetta for his June 23-24 uprising.

While it tried to avoid any pomp-filled ceremony for him, the Kremlin could not afford to denigrate Mr Prigozhin, who reportedly received Russias highest award for leading Wagner forces in Ukraine and was idolised by many of the countrys hawks.

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Mr Putins comments on Mr Prigozhins death reflected that careful stand. He noted last week that Wagner leaders made a significant contribution to the fighting in Ukraine and described Mr Prigozhin as a talented businessman and a man of difficult fate who had made serious mistakes in life.

Sergei Markov, a pro-Kremlin political analyst, noted that Mr Prigozhin has become a legendary figure for his supporters who are increasingly critical of the authorities.

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Prigozhins funeral raises an issue of communication between the bureaucratic Russian government system that doesnt have much political potential and politically active patriotic segment of the Russian public, Mr Markov said.

The countrys top criminal investigation agency, the Investigative Committee, officially confirmed Mr Prigozhins death on Sunday.

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The committee did not say what might have caused Mr Prigozhins business jet to plummet from the sky on August 23, minutes after taking off from Moscow for St Petersburg.



Russian Rosguardia (National Guard) servicemen guard the Porokhovskoye cemetery after a memorial service for mercenary chief Yevgeny Prigozhin (Dmitri Lovetsky/AP/PA)

Just before the crash, Mr Prigozhin had reportedly returned from a trip to Africa, where he sought to expand Wagner Groups activities.

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A preliminary U.S. intelligence assessment concluded that an intentional explosion caused the plane to crash, and Western officials have pointed to a long list of Mr Putins foes who have been assassinated. The Kremlin rejected Western allegations the president was behind the crash as an absolute lie.

Although both were from St Petersburg, Mr Prigozhin and Mr Putin were not known to be particularly close.

Mr Prigozhin, an ex-convict who earned millions and his nickname Putins chef from lucrative government catering contracts, served Kremlin political interests and helped expand Russias clout by sending his mercenaries to Syria, Libya, the Central African Republic and other countries.

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Wagner, one of the most capable elements of Moscows forces, played a key role in Ukraine where it captured the Ukrainian eastern stronghold of Bakhmut in late May.

The crash came exactly two months after the brutal and profane mercenary boss launched a rebellion against the Russian military leadership. Mr Prigozhin ordered his mercenaries to take over the military headquarters in the southern city of Rostov-on-Don and then began a march on Moscow. They downed several military aircraft, killing more than a dozen pilots.

Mr Putin had vowed to punish the participants but hours later struck a deal that saw Mr Prigozhin ending the mutiny in exchange for amnesty and permission for him and his troops to move to Belarus.

The fate of Wagner, which until recently played a prominent role in Russias military campaign in Ukraine and was involved in a number of African and Middle Eastern countries, is uncertain.

Mr Putin said Wagner fighters could sign a contract with the Russian military, move to Belarus or retire from service. Several thousand went to Belarus, where they are in a camp southeast of the capital, Minsk.

Russian state television, which for decades has served as the main source of information for the vast majority of Russians, barely covered the funeral at all.

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One major channel, Russia 1, dedicated less than one minute of air time to it in its evening news bulletin, only to say that the funeral ceremony took place without outsiders and the press at the request of the family and that Mr Prigozhins grave is right next to that of his father, who died in 1978.

Another popular station, Channel One, ignored it completely in their evening news.
This photo, carried by North Korea's official Korean Central News Agency, Aug. 29, shows North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, center, visiting the North's navy command, Aug. 27. Yonhap



North Korean leader Kim Jong-un called for bolstering naval forces as he visited the country's navy command, while denouncing South Korea, the United States and Japan for stepping up their trilateral military cooperation, according to the North's state media Tuesday.



The report came as Seoul, Washington and Tokyo staged a trilateral missile defense exercise in the international waters south of the Korean Peninsula earlier in the day in response to Pyongyang's nuclear and missile threats, including its purported space rocket launch last week.



During his visit to the navy command Sunday ahead of Navy Day, Kim stressed the navy should become a component of the country's nuclear deterrence, according to the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA).



"To achieve the successes in rapidly developing the naval force has become a very urgent issue in view of the enemies' recent aggressive attempts and character of military actions," Kim was quoted as saying by the KCNA in an English-language report.



North Korea commemorates Aug. 28 as Navy Day to mark the official establishment of its naval forces.



Claiming that the strengthening security cooperation among Seoul, Tokyo and Washington has made waters off the Korean Peninsula the "most unstable waters with the danger of a nuclear war," Kim called for the navy to maintain war readiness, it said.



"The prevailing situation requires our Navy to put all its efforts into rounding off the war readiness to maintain the constant combat alertness, and get prepared to break the enemy's will for war in contingency and carry out the military strategy of the Supreme Headquarters," Kim said.



Kim lashed out at the leaders of South Korea, the U.S. and Japan, calling them "gang bosses," in an apparent criticism of their first stand-alone summit at the Camp David presidential retreat in Maryland earlier this month.



The three leaders reached a series of agreements during the summit, including a commitment to consult one another expeditiously in the event of common threats, hold annual joint military exercises and pursue enhanced ballistic missile defense cooperation to counter North Korea's nuclear and missile threats.





This photo, carried by North Korea's official Korean Central News Agency, Aug. 29, shows North Korean leader Kim Jong-un visiting the North's navy command, Aug. 27, with his daughter Ju-ae, left. Yonhap
Sudans top military officer made a one-day visit to Egypt on Tuesday for talks with the Egyptian president, making his first trip abroad since his country plunged into a bitter conflict this year.

General Abdel-Fattah Burhan, chairman of the ruling Sovereign Council, arrived in the Mediterranean city of el-Alamein and was met at the airport by President Abdel Fattah el-Sissi, the council said.

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The two leaders discussed efforts to end the conflict in Sudan in a way that preserves the sovereignty, integrity of Sudanese State, an Egyptian statement said. The statement offered only generalities about the war.



Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah el-Sissi, right, with Sudans army chief General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan at the presidential palace in el-Alamein city, Egypt (Egyptian Presidency Media Office via AP/PA)

Sudan plunged into chaos in mid-April when simmering tensions between the military, led by Gen Burhan, and the powerful paramilitary Rapid Support Forces, commanded by Mohammed Hamdan Dagalo, exploded into open fighting in the capital, Khartoum, and elsewhere.

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The conflict has turned the capital into an urban battlefield, with the RSF controlling vast areas of the city. The military command, where Gen Burhan has purportedly been stationed since April, has been one of the epicenters of the conflict.

In televised comments to Egyptian media, Gen Burhan accused the RSF of initiating the war to seize power in Sudan.

Were facing a destructive war initiated by rebel groups  that committed heinous crimes that amount to war crimes, he said.

The military has sought to end the conflict and establish a transitional period until fair and free elections, he said.

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Gen Burhan was accompanied by acting Foreign Minister Ali al-Sadiq and Gen Ahmed Ibrahim Mufadel, head of the General Intelligence Authority, and other military officers.

There was no immediate comment from the RSF either on Gen Burhans trip or on his comments.

The Sovereign Council announced late on Tuesday that Gen Burhan had returned to Port Sudan, the countrys largest coastal city controlled by the military. The general had departed from the Red Sea city to Egypt earlier in the day.

Gen Burhan managed last week to leave Sudans military headquarters in Khartoum. He visited military facilities in Khartoums sister city of Omdurman and elsewhere north of the capital.

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In months of fighting, neither side has managed to gain control of Khartoum or other key areas in the country. Last week, large explosions and plumes of black smoke could be seen above key areas of the capital, including near its airport.

Egypt has longstanding ties with the Sudanese army and its top generals. In July, el-Sissi hosted a meeting of Sudans neighbours and announced a plan for a cease-fire. A series of fragile truces, brokered by the US and Saudi Arabia, have failed to hold.

The fighting is estimated to have killed at least 4,000 people, according to the UN human rights office, though activists and doctors on the ground say the toll is likely to be far higher.

More than 4.6 million people have been displaced, according to the UN migration agency.

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Martin Griffiths, the UNs humanitarian chief, said on Tuesday that the organisation had added an additional 20 million dollars (15.8 million) from its emergency funding to help cover Sudans growing humanitarian needs.

This year a total of 60 million dollars (47.5 million) from the fund has been allocated to Sudan, Mr Griffith said in a post on Twitter, now known as X.
A rare blue supermoon could raise tides above normal just as Hurricane Idalia takes aim at Floridas west coast, exacerbating flooding from the storm.

The moon will be closest to Earth on Wednesday night, the same day Idalia is expected to make landfall in Florida.

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While a supermoon can make for a spectacular backdrop in photos of landmarks around the world, its intensified gravitational pull also makes tides higher.





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I would say the timing is pretty bad for this one, said Brian Haines, the meteorologist in charge at the National Weather Service office in Charleston, South Carolina.

It is expected to make tidal flooding worse not only in Florida, but in states such as Georgia and South Carolina, where Mr Haines office has been warning residents that parts of Charleston could be under water by Wednesday night.

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When the moon is full, the sun and the moon are pulling in the same direction, which has the effect of increasing tides above normal ranges, said Kerry Emanuel, professor emeritus of atmospheric science at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

The moons gravitational pulls are even stronger when it is closer to Earth, so the tides are even higher.

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The storm surge is often the greatest killer when hurricanes strike. The ocean water pouring onto land could be up to 15 feet (4.6 metres) along parts of Floridas west coast, the National Hurricane Centre projected in its latest briefings on Tuesday.





Catastrophic impacts from storm surge inundation of 10 to 15 feet above ground level and destructive waves are expected somewhere between Aucilla River and Yankeetown, Florida. Life-threatening storm surge inundation is likely elsewhere along portions of the

Florida Gulf Coast pic.twitter.com/I4v1whhy6S  National Weather Service (@NWS) August 29, 2023 Advertisement

Further south, up to seven feet (2.1 metres) of storm surge is expected in the Tampa Bay area.

Storm surge that can be taller than a person is a concern with any major hurricane. The tides and the influence of a supermoon can increase that.

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Theres a saying that you hide from the wind and run from the water, and hopefully people are heeding that advice, said Brian Tang, associate professor of atmospheric science at University at Albany in New York.

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The part of north-west Florida that could be hit by Idalia is especially vulnerable to storm surge because of the regions geography. The continental shelf extends so far out from the coast and has a gradual slope, allowing the ocean to grow higher as hurricane winds drive the water onto land, Mr Tang said.

The shape of the coast in that region  known as Floridas Big Bend area  is also curved inward, which can focus the storm surge to make it even more dangerous, he said.

In South Carolina, there is concern that Idalias path will take it near the historic city of Charleston and the surrounding area known as the Low Country. That would add water to the high tide that is in the forecast, Mr Haines said.

Wednesday evening looks really nasty for coastal flooding here, he said.

The weather service is forecasting an eight-feet (2.5 metre) tide in Charleston on Wednesday evening, which could produce widespread flooding in downtown Charleston, Haines said.

Even with a smaller tide, some roads in the city could flood and become impassible, he said.
The Biden administration announced on Tuesday it will send an additional $250 million (230 million) in weapons and ammunition to Ukraine as part of its ongoing support of Kyivs counteroffensive.

The weapons will be drawn from existing US stockpiles and will include mine-clearing equipment, artillery and rocket rounds, ambulances and medical gear, among other items and spare parts, according to the State Department.

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The package will help Ukrainian forces on the battlefield and support its air defences as Russia continues to launch brutal, brutal strikes against the people of Ukraine, including attacks this past week, White House spokeswoman Karine Jean-Pierre said on Tuesday.

The State Department said the package contained AIM-9M missiles for air defence, High Mobility Artillery Rocket System munitions, 155mm and 105mm artillery ammunition and more than three million rounds of small arms ammunition.

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The US would have already run out of funding for the year to provide additional stockpile equipment to Ukraine but earlier this year realised the Pentagon had overvalued the equipment it had already sent, which freed up an additional $6.2 billion in funding.

Ukraine has already received more than $43 billion from the US since Russia invaded last year.

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Those funds have provided weapons systems such as howitzers and millions of rounds of ammunition to fight back against the much larger Russian military. Due to the intense and bloody land war, now in its 18th month, much of the ammunition and weaponry has already been used up.
Virgin Australia chief Jayne Hrdlicka has rubbished Qantas boss Alan Joyces claims that Qatar Airways application to fly extra international services would have created market distortion, arguing that the extra seats would have brought down the prices of airfares.

In a two-hour grilling from the Senate committee on the cost-of-living crisis on Monday, Joyce defended the governments decision to reject Qatar Airways application, which would have added 800,000 to 1 million additional seats between Australia, Doha and Europe each year.

Virgin Australia chief executive Jayne Hrdlicka has rubbished Qantas chief Alan Joyces claims of market distortion.

Joyce said Qantas made a submission to the federal government last October that Qatar Airways doubling its services would distort the market by hurting the recovering capacity of other airlines.

But Hrdlicka on Tuesday said that adding additional seats would push down sky-high overseas airfares, in turn increasing demand for international travel.
The current US sanctions only covered rough Russian diamonds or those cut and polished inside Russia, said Paul Zimnisky, a diamond industry analyst based in the New York City area. Given 90 per cent of diamonds are cut and polished in India, and can therefore be classed as Indian gems, the current regulations arent as strict as you might think. But some responses were far more stringent than the government regulations required, he said, with numerous high-profile luxury players, including Richemont and LVMH Moet Hennessy Louis Vuitton, telling suppliers that they would not buy Russian stones, putting the onus on those suppliers to disclose the provenance of their gems. India, where 90 per cent of the worlds rough stones are cut and polished, has continued to handle Russian diamonds without falling foul of Western governments. Credit: Bloomberg More governments with considerable economic firepower are expected to be part of the new effort. Brad Brooks-Rubin, a senior adviser in the Office of Sanctions Coordination in the US State Department, said consumers in the G7 nations account for almost 70 per cent of all diamond purchases.

By cutting off most of their demand, if an import ban were to be agreed, Russian diamonds would have a narrower lane through which to work their way into the marketplace, he said. The focus of all discussions is how to target Alrosa and Russias diamond revenues that could then be funnelled to their war efforts. The formal announcement of G7 sanctions is expected in September, and negotiators are still finalising the exact terms for tracking and tracing individual gemstones and accompanying customs paperwork. The expectation is that these new sanctions would come into effect in January, after the all-important holiday retail season. Loading Jewellery shoppers may see prices rise if there is a shortage of non-Russian diamonds after more sanctions are imposed, but increases would likely come gradually rather than suddenly. The industry has been expecting the action. The question is whether an industry, mainly composed of small businesses, that is organised around the quality, size and colour of stones  not their provenance  could segregate stones and accurately produce paperwork that categorises them by origin.

That challenge likely would be further exacerbated by the multiple supply chain loopholes that are possible when diamonds make their multinational journey from a mine, through a hard-to-police global web of middlemen, and ultimately to consumers or into industrial uses. Diamonds can change hands 20 to 30 times between mine and market, according to Hans Merket, a researcher with the International Peace Information Service, an independent research agency. It will be important to find the right balance between ambition and realism, he added, as it could take years rather than months to get all noses in the right direction and reorganise this complex global supply chain. The focus of all discussions is how to target Alrosa and Russias diamond revenues that could then be funnelled to their war efforts. Brad Brooks-Rubin, a senior adviser in the Office of Sanctions Coordination in the US State Department Another headache? Russia is known for producing small diamonds that are mostly sold in very large quantities. The new G7 sanctions likely would cover only finished stones of one carat or larger, Brooks-Rubin said, although smaller gems may be included later.

Tiffany Stevens, the CEO and general counsel of the Jewellers Vigilance Committee, a nonprofit organisation based in New York City that focuses on ethics via legal compliance and policy advocacy in the jewellery trade, said the invasion had required the diamond industry to make significant changes in its operations, and it had been given time to prepare for the new requirements that tougher rules would bring. The G7 sanctions is a turning up of the heat on Russia and also offers a brightening of the lines for the trade on how to enforce it, she said. But our industry is also very fragmented and global, with many in the trade who still wont fall under its remit. Russia is the worlds biggest diamond exporter by volume, with a state-owned company, Alrosa, mining almost one-third of all diamonds produced in 2021. Credit: Bloomberg New challenges, new order Despite continuing diplomatic moves, including sanctions imposed on an Alrosa CEO who was appointed in May, industry analysts say that the Russian diamond export numbers are close to what they were before the invasion of Ukraine, but some of the import locations have changed.

China now has become a major new port of call for Russian diamonds, and new cutting and polishing hubs in former Soviet states, such as Armenia and Belarus, have seen a significant uptick in their volume of rough stones from the country. Dubai  with its favourable geographic location between East and West, and a recent influx of Russian business  also has benefited significantly from the existing sanctions. India, where 90 per cent of the worlds rough stones are cut and polished in the city of Surat, has continued to handle Russian diamonds without falling foul of Western governments. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has defied pressure from the West to impose any sanctions on Russia or scale back economic ties with the Kremlin. Loading But US authorities have frozen some diamond deals that were conducted by Indian traders who were suspected of handling Russian stones, presenting challenges for Surat and Mumbai traders. And overall, the industry says that thousands of low-wage cutting and polishing jobs are at risk. In a strategy to offset potential damage to local trade and to maintain employment, the Indian government and its gem industry has significantly increased investments in the manufacturing of lab-grown diamonds (which require the same cutting and polishing as natural stones), already a major focus for the country.

In June, Modi presented a 7.5-carat synthetic diamond to Jill Biden, the first lady, during his visit to the White House. The gesture was a diplomatic flourish given that the recent flood of Indian lab-grown diamond exports to the United States had sent their market value tumbling. Is the technology up to it? According to Zimnisky, the Russians have ramped up diamond sales in recent months in an attempt to claw back market share lost last year following the disruption in trading. Yet diamond prices are down 18 per cent from their all-time highs in February 2022, according to one Global Rough Diamond Price Index published in June, with the popularity of human-made diamonds, a slowdown in Chinas economic recovery, an uncertain macroeconomic backdrop and the continuing war in Ukraine all contributing to a lacklustre market. The West is desperate to strangle sources of revenue for Russias war effort. Credit: Nanna Heitmann/The New York Times

For sanctions negotiators and the wider industry, the focus is whether new technologies are capable of offering a watertight and verifiable solution to determining the origins of a stone. Currently, customs officers require a government-issued certificate guaranteeing that the stones meet the requirements of the United Nations-backed Kimberley Process, created to prevent the flow of conflict diamonds. The certification requirement has been a step forward, but as Skander Nasra, an adviser to Prime Minister Alexander De Croo of Belgium, pointed out, the method is recognised to have significant flaws. Loading We have been working toward a more significant way of hitting Russia, he said, and that is with sanctions with a remit that ushers the industry toward using tracing technologies and blockchain. It is the only credible way to close the loopholes around rubber stamping or self-auditing and to ultimately keep Russian stones off the market, even if it takes several years to successfully implement a scheme. After the invasion, De Beers scaled up its Tracr platform to allow participation from others in the diamond industry, while the Gemological Institute of America introduced a consumer-facing service called GIA Source Verify that would validate a diamonds country of origin.

A Swiss company, Spacecode, which already offers technology to track diamonds through the supply chain, now says it has a new device that can identify the region of origin of individual diamonds and intends to have it available for sale by the end of 2024. Another company, Sarine, has also unveiled a traceability system called the Diamond Journey, which begins with a 3D scan of a rough stone at the mine and then logs every subsequent step to the retailer. There will likely be an extended transition period before the sanctions roll out. In the short term, the expectation is that the trade will rely on auditing. Loading Naturally, some well-resourced major players will adapt, but small- and medium-sized or family businesses, which are a cornerstone of the jewellery trade, will have a much tougher time, Stevens said. Zimnisky added that we are a long, long way from a state where the technology to trace the chemical makeup of a stone is used industry-wide, though he noted that the trade has been moving in this direction already. Demands related to the Russian sanctions had just accelerated those efforts.
Turns out his budget was so tight, a frugal Hardiman was forced to catch the bus from Sydney every time he needed to visit Canberra. (Having repeatedly made that infamous trek up in the Hume in a Murrays bus, CBD really does sympathise.)

When Hardiman quit the FOI commission in March, less than a year into the gig, he mentioned its whopping FOI request backlog and measly resources.

In what is surely a public servant dummy spit for the ages, ex-FOI commissioner Leo Hardiman spoke of a culture of gaslighting, incompetence and resistance to reform that may actually wring a few drops of sympathy from anyone whos ever waited on the other end of an FOI request.

Anyone who wandered into the Senate hearing on Australias freedom-of-information regime on Tuesday must have thought theyd entered some ghastly Utopia-style nightmare. And thats even by Senate hearing standards.

Ridiculous was the word used, Hardiman told senators on Tuesday. News would come nearly every day of another government cash splash (or expensive jet trip if youre a certain Defence minister), and here was Hardiman, asking for just a few million bucks.

Not only were the purse strings tight, but what few staff Hardiman had were constantly diverted to obscure side tasks, he said. That included a revolving door of process changes that staff saw as a push by their overlords to progress a narrative something was being done when it wasnt. Not to mention, cycles of panic that rippled down from on high related to Senate estimates hearings  or even more terrifying  fronting notorious FOI warrior Senator Rex Patrick. There was so much staff turnover, some spent most of their time onboarding newbies, Hardiman said.

Australias FOI regime is notoriously brutal. Take this case in 2018 when one concerned punter, requesting documents on what happens when the Queen dies was made to wait five years  after the Queen had actually died  only to be told the single document theyd requested was unavailable.

When the ex-commissioner tried to push through reform to fix things, a flabbergasted Hardiman said he was told not to involve himself in the running of his own commission.

Still, the suitably flustered government officials who had to follow Hardimans act at the hearing said theyd been surprised by the commissioners resignation. A new appointment will be finalised in the coming months.
The critically acclaimed one-woman play starring Heather Mitchell, RBG: Of Many, One, is set to tour Canberra, Melbourne and Brisbane next year after an encore season at Sydney Theatre Company.

The play about the late US Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, written by Suzie Miller (Prima Facie), debuted at STC in 2022 to rave reviews, including five stars from The Sydney Morning Herald.

Heather Mitchell as Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg in RBG in 2022. Credit: Prudence Upton

Chief theatre critic John Shand praised Mitchell for her poise, beauty, humour, insight and intelligence in the role, which also earned her a Sydney Theatre Award for best performer in a leading role in a mainstream production.

Im really excited to get to do it again, Mitchell says. When we closed, I really grieved her because I think shes such a remarkable woman.
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Eating outChinese Top hospo team brings Darlinghurst pub back to life  with Chinese food, craft beer and a refreshed rooftop bar The Taphouse is reopening, with new owners Applejack pumping out pub-friendly riffs on casual Cantonese dishes and a rooftop with Parisian summer vibes. Bianca Hrovat August 29, 2023 Save Log in , register or subscribe to save recipes for later. You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share

Share Chinese food over beers at The Taphouse in Darlinghurst. Steven Woodburn The Taphouse in Darlinghurst will reopen on September 13 with Chinese food, craft beers and a refreshed rooftop bar. Sydney group Applejack Hospitality, known for hatted North Sydney restaurant RAFI and Surry Hills pub Forresters, took just three months to sharpen up the interiors after the former tenant went into liquidation in May. The refreshed ground floor at The Taphouse. Steven Woodburn It was too good of an opportunity to pass up, Applejack co-founder and director Hamish Watts told Good Food.

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Its got such amazing character, with beautiful timber flooring and original ceilings, so we tried to keep as much of that as we could. The rooftop bar at The Taphouse. Steven Woodburn The ground floor will feel familiar to regulars, retaining its moody, comfortable character with a long marble bar, pressed tin ceilings and original 1920s wood staircase. Upstairs, therell be space for DJs, parties and trivia. Watts says the refreshed rooftop channels the feeling of a Parisian summer with a fresh lick of blue paint, white picnic tables and linen umbrellas. Culinary director Patrick Friesen and head chef Sam Ng. Steven Woodburn

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Head chef Sam Ng arrives from Hong Kong fine-dining restaurant The Praya to create pub-friendly riffs on casual Cantonese dishes, like cruller prawn toast with sweet and sour sauce and Jangs egg noodles with crispy pork belly. Therell also be some Singaporean classics on the menu, like black pepper crab. We hope to share our part in celebrating the worlds greatest cuisine, says Applejack culinary director Patrick Friesen, who previously worked with Ng at Brisbane Cantonese restaurant Stanley. Dumplings are among the Cantonese fare at The Taphouse. Steven Woodburn Friesen says Cantonese food brings a sense of comfort and familiarity to the menu, two essential elements for a great pub feed.

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Have you ever tried salt and pepper squid with a beer? Its a fantastic combo, he says. The Taphouse will retain its commitment to craft beer, with 20 taps of local brews from the likes of Philter, Freshwater Brewing and Mountain Culture. Taphouse in Darlinghurst. Steven Woodburn The pub became an early pioneer of craft beer when Stomping Ground founders Steve Jeffares and Guy Greenstone changed the Palace Hotel into The Local Taphouse in 2008. Brothers Josh and James Thorpe took over in 2017 and introduced the first iteration of Odd Culture on the second floor in 2018.

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James Thorpe split from his brother to found Odd Culture Group in 2020, and now runs the hatted Newtown restaurant of the same name. Open Mon-Wed 4pm-11pm; Thu 4pm-midnight; Fri-Sat noon-1am; Sun 11.30am-11pm 122 Flinders Street, Darlinghurst, taphousesydney.com.au
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 Sofitel Brisbane executive chef Bastian Boll dusts two plump buttermilk scones with icing sugar then slips them into a folded white napkin. He takes a Madagascan vanilla bean and slices it lengthways, scrapes the sticky interior into a bowl of cream and icing sugar, takes an enormous beater and starts whipping it into Chantilly cream. Producing a blowtorch, he quickly toasts the top of a lemon meringue tart, and finishes it off with grated lime. He carefully adds it to a two-tiered plate already laden with macarons, chocolate mousse petit fours and savoury sandwiches on colourful brioche buns. After the COVID slump, high tea in Australia is on the rise, according to high tea expert Michelle Milton, founder of the website High Tea Society. Its really picking up. Ive seen a whole lot of new venues open in the last six months, and those that were closed have reopened. As it grows in popularity, its also diversifying, Milton says. Its not all about the cakes and the sweet items  at least half the high tea is actually savoury now. Theming high teas is very popular. It could be a chocolate high tea, it could be cheese themed, it could be a cocktail partnership. What I like is the creativity that these chefs are going to.

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Whether you swing sweet or savoury, boozy or caffeinated, classical or contemporary, Brisbane has a high tea for you. All you need is an appetite for the finer things in life Sofitel Brisbane High Tea is made in the hotels pastry kitchen overseen by executive chef Bastian Boll. Credit: Sofitel Brisbane Sofitel Brisbane High Tea The view of Anzac Square and Post Office Square from lobby bar Cuvee is almost as impressive as the view of whats on the plate at the Sofitel. The French hotel group is playing the Gallic card heavily with its gluten-free high tea offering. Its hard not to get excited about Valrhona Ivoire white chocolate and fruit scones, seasonal confiture and Chantilly cream; or Lyonnaise onion, beetroot, and Meredith goat cheese quiche. A glass of Veuve Clicquot is included in the price. Where: 249 Turbot Street, Brisbane

When: Fri-Sun 11am-4pm (bookings essential)

How much: $79pp Sunshine State High Tea at W Brisbane comes with a white chocolate jigsaw puzzle. Credit: W Brisbane Sunshine State High Tea at W Brisbane

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This high tea, served on a three-tiered W-shaped platter, is curated to showcase Queensland and Australian produce. Think Yeppoon spanner crab and wakame on a rye bun; Townsville-farmed lobster on a brioche bun; or Toowoomba free-range egg sandwich with confit garlic. Up top are the sweets such as Queensland rum and banana cake, or native spice-infused Earl Grey mousse with calamansi and rosella. The showstopper here is a jigsaw puzzle made from Belgian white chocolate, depicting a quintessential Queensland image that changes week to week. Black teas by T Bar skew patriotic with Australian lemon myrtle and Australian grown Sunburnt chai. Where? 81 North Quay, Brisbane

When? Fri-Sun 11am-3pm (bookings essential)

How much? $70-$99 Stamford Plazas Spirit of Brisbane High Tea is designed to showcase Queensland produce. Credit: Stamford Plaza Spirit of Queensland High Tea at Stamford Plaza The Spirit of Queensland High Tea riffs on the tastes and produce of the Sunshine State from outback to coast. Highlights include a quiche made with Daintree barramundi, a Mount Cotton chicken mini wrap, scones made with Queensland blue pumpkin and Stanthorpe cider apple, and a Day at the Ekka  a deconstructed strawberry sundae in a glass. Enjoy them all in the splendour of the Stamford Plazas grand lobby. For kids, the Chocolate Factory High Tea is popular during school holidays. Where? 39 Edward Street, Brisbane

When? Sat and Sun 2-4pm (bookings essential)

How much? $59-$79 Collet Art Deco High Tea at Dandelion & Driftwood includes a coupe of Collet champagne. Credit: Dandelion & Driftwood

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Collet Art Deco High Tea at Dandelion & Driftwood Popular Hendra cafe Dandelion & Driftwoods high teas come in three-tiers with signature ribbon sandwiches, assorted savouries, pastries and mini filled croissants on the base tier. The middle tier has scones with The Grainge raspberry jam and double cream. The top tier is for sweets including mini lemon curd tart, mini caramel tart, cupcakes and others. For the Collet Art Deco High Tea, throw in a coupe of Collet champagne. They also do packaged High Tea at Home. Where? 20 Doncaster Street, Hendra

When? Daily 9am-2.15pm (bookings essential)

How much? $75pp Top Brisbane restaurant Bacchus has a high tea offering. Credit: Bacchus High tea at Bacchus Restaurant A restaurant with the fine-dining clout to back up its ritzy reputation, Bacchus is led by chef de cuisine Manuele Erriu. For high tea, expect the likes of madeleines, cannoli, macarons, lemon tart, scones, chicken mini croissant, tuna and salmon sandwiches, and a mac and cheese croquette. Its served with continuous Harney & Sons fine teas or barista coffee. An Endless Chandon upgrade gets you two hours of champagne, because why the heck not? Where? 9 Glenelg Street, South Bank

When? Sat-Sun 1pm (bookings essential)

How much? From $49 (kids $35)

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The Kitchen Sunday High Tea at Old Government House Built in 1862 to house Queenslands first governor, Sir George Bowen, Old Government House is one of the oldest and most beautiful buildings in the entire state. Why wouldnt you want to have high tea here? Now a free museum on the QUT campus, it has an elegant courtyard cafe, The Kitchen, offering high tea one Sunday a month (usually earlier in the month). Expect freshly brewed teas, finger sandwiches, sweet and savoury pastries, and a glass of champagne or juice on arrival. Time it right and your high tea will come with a live classical music accompaniment. Where: 2 George Street, Brisbane

When: Sun 10am-12pm sittings (bookings essential)

How much: $79pp The Balfour Kitchen & Bar serves a Vietnamese-influenced high tea. Credit: The Balfour Kitchen & Bar High tea at The Balfour Kitchen & Bar

The wraparound Queenslander veranda at Spicers Balfour Hotel off Brunswick Street is the unique setting for a high tea with a subtle Vietnamese influence courtesy of head chef Lachlan Horstman. Horstmans approach is evident in the likes of spanner crab tart with avocado mousse, pork terrine with pickled onion, and shiitake mushroom brioche, while sweets, including a Portuguese pasteis de nata tart, are all dairy and gluten free. Enjoy a glass of bubbles on arrival followed by a range of coffees and organic single estate teas by Chamellia. Where: 37 Balfour Street, New Farm

When: Every second Sat and Sun 11.30am-2.30pm (bookings essential)

How much: $89pp

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This photo released on Aug. 22 shows North Korean leader Kim Jong-un inspecting the flood situation in a tidal area of South Pyongan Province, North Korea. Signs of a bloody purge of top-ranking officials appear imminent in North Korea as Kim searches for scapegoats amid a worsening food crisis, according to analysts on Tuesday. Yonhap



Top-level officials could be executed as Kim searches for scapegoats: analysts



By Jung Min-ho



A bloody purge of high-ranking officials appears to be imminent in North Korea as Kim Jong-un, its dictator, searches for scapegoats amid a worsening food crisis, according to analysts.



In assessments of the North's current economic and political situation, Tuesday, experts said at least several officials in charge of the economy, particularly food production management, could be executed. The North has often used such forms of punishment in the past to place the blame on bureaucrats for policy failures.



The analyses come as North Korean Premier Kim Tok-hun is being investigated over flood damage in farmlands along its western coast. During his visit to a tidal area where seawater flooded vast swathes of rice fields following the collapse of an embankment, Kim Jong-un used expletives to lambast the premier and other senior officials for "irresponsible neglect of duties."



"Judging by the degree of Kim Jong-un's criticism and anger expressed by the North's state media, those in charge of economic policy may well be executed or sent to political prison camps," Oh Gyeong-seob, an analyst at the Korea Institute for National Unification, a think tank, told The Korea Times.



Oh compared the current political mood to the atmosphere in North Korea during an acute food shortage in the 1990s, known as the Arduous March, and after botched currency reforms in 2009, in which high-ranking policymakers were executed apparently to ease a public furor over exacerbating economic problems.



Given the international sanctions, the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the limited power of North Korea's Cabinet in terms of policymaking, the fate of Kim Tok-hun might have been determined from the very beginning, according to Cho Han-bum, another senior researcher at the think tank.



"In North Korea, where the Workers' Party of Korea rules, the Cabinet has little power," Cho said in his analysis. "Kim Jong-un appears to have tried to shift the blame on the powerless Cabinet  The photos of him giving orders in a flooded rice paddy seem to be a PR stunt aimed at projecting his image as a leader in contrast to the inept Cabinet."



Reports by many institutions and recent testimonies from North Korean escapees suggest that the food shortage there has been aggravating to the worst levels in over 20 years.



A Bank of Korea report released last month showed that North Korea's economy contracted for the third straight year in 2022. It is estimated to have decreased 0.2 percent, following a 4.5 percent contraction in 2020 and a 0.1 percent dip in 2021.



Cho said the extent and depth of the looming purge could be comparable to what is known as the Deepening Group Incident, in which approximately 10,000 people were executed and 15,000 others were sent to concentration camps as scapegoats for the great famine in the '90s.



"The strong criticism of Kim Tok-hun and the Cabinet appears to be part of a strategy to achieve a political breakthrough by victimizing scapegoats and enforcing a reign of terror in the face of the worst crisis seen since Kim Jong-un rose to power," Cho said. "Judging from (the intensity and content of) Kim Jong-un's criticism, it (the purge) could end up as the second Deepening Group Incident. But the North Korean elite and ordinary citizens are aware that Kim Tok-hun and the Cabinet were powerless from the beginning ... So questions remain as to whether a bloody purge would lead (him) to gain a firmer grip on power."




Former commando Heston Russells barrister has accused the ABC of self-delusion and utter hypocrisy in defending his defamation suit over articles suggesting he was involved in executing an unarmed prisoner in Afghanistan.

The Federal Court defamation trial entered its final stages on Tuesday as Sue Chrysanthou, SC, acting for Russell, delivered closing submissions urging Justice Michael Lee to reject the ABCs public interest defence and rule in Russells favour.

Heston Russells legal team including barrister Sue Chrysanthou, SC, centre, outside the Federal Court in Sydney on Tuesday. Credit: Rhett Wyman

Chrysanthou said the parties written submissions were further apart than ships in the night.

Theres one ship, call it Heston, that is gliding over the seas of legal principle and the ocean of actual evidence ... and then theres the ABC ship, that is stuck on the rocks of complete self-delusion, utter hypocrisy and a misstatement of the relevant law, she said.
A brothel boss embroiled in an extortion attempt with a woman whose lavish lifestyle he was funding may have been near the scene of her alleged murder around the time of her death, phone tower records shown in court suggest.

Mark Gray maintains he was home in bed at his Brighton address when police believe his close friend Ellie Price, 26, was killed inside her South Melbourne apartment on April 29, 2020.

Witness Mark Gray leaves court wearing a beanie, sunglasses and face mask earlier this year. Credit: Joe Armao

Her then boyfriend, Ricardo Barbaro, was later arrested and charged with murder. He has pleaded not guilty and is currently on trial.

On Tuesday, Gray told a Supreme Court jury he last saw Price alive eight days before her alleged murder during a visit to the Park Street home he was paying for.
The Greens will seek to unite with the Coalition in the Senate to extract key details about Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles $3.6 million of private flights since April last year, as MPs from across the political spectrum raise alarm bells about his use of travel entitlements.

Documents released under freedom of information laws show that Marles was involved in a decision, ratified in March, to prohibit the release of information detailing where government VIP planes flew and who was on board.

Defence Minister and Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles. Credit: Alex Ellinghausen

This decision, based on what the government says was official security advice, was made during a period in which Marles was sometimes spending more on private domestic travel than the prime minister.

And separately, a full breakdown of Marles or any other politicians travel expenses is unlikely to be published until next year, with Labor blaming an IT bungle. MPs expenses were last published in 2022.
Markets including home appliance retailing and service stations have become more concentrated and less competitive over the past 15 years, independent analysis has found, with the nations consumers paying for the change through higher prices.

As Assistant Competition Minster Andrew Leigh said he would like Australias aviation market to be as competitive as Europes, research from think tank e61 showed domestic markets across a range of goods and services are much more concentrated than in other countries.

Over the past 15 years, there has been an increase in the dominance of large Australian firms in their respective markets. Credit: James Davies

Describing the increase in big players dominating a particular market as not purely benign, the research shows there has been an increase in quiet mergers by private companies that have escaped regulatory scrutiny and could be adding to Australias lack of competition.

The federal government this month launched an inquiry into economic dynamism, competition, non-compete clauses and business creation amid growing evidence that consumers are being hurt by a lack of competitive pressures.
Victorian homebuyers will still pay stamp duty after a parliamentary inquiry stopped short of calling for the contentious tax to be abolished, despite the high cost of housing and against the advice of economists.

A cross-party committee has instead recommended that Treasury investigate how the state could replace upfront stamp duty with a broad-based land tax for residential properties, and for that modelling to be made public, in what economists and some MPs are labelling a missed opportunity.

Treasurer Tim Pallas says the state government is constantly reviewing the tax system. Credit: Chris Hopkins

The upper houses economy and infrastructure committee has also urged the Andrews government to regularly review stamp duty rates to tackle bracket creep, as well as advocate for a national approach to stamp duty reform.

Chief economist at AMP Capital Shane Oliver said Tuesdays recommendations were disappointing given stamp duty was a massive upfront cost for young people and a disincentive for empty nesters looking to downsize.
West Australian Mines and Petroleum Minister Bill Johnston has lashed Liberal Senator Dean Smith as irrelevant to Australian politics and accused him of lying about money laundering issues surrounding the Perth Mint.

Johnston used question time in WA parliament to launch the blistering tirade at Smith and declare concerns about money laundering at the mint, raised in a Four Corners report in March, were a beat-up.

WA Liberal Senator Dean Smith. Credit: Alex Ellinghausen

He accused Smith, who chairs a senate committee inquiry into the mints compliance with money laundering controls, of lying in the media about the Reserve Bank of Australias behind-closed-door evidence to the inquiry.

Im sick and tired of the dishonesty of Senator Dean Smith, Johnston told parliament.
The woman set to replace disgraced MP James Hayward in the upper house has declared she is ready for the job.

After a six-day trial on Monday a jury found Hayward, 53, guilty of directing an eight-year-old girl to indecently touch him on two occasions.

Nationals WA South West Candidate Louise Kingston Credit: Manjimup Community Resource Centre

The former Nationals MPs conviction disqualifies him from sitting in parliament meaning the next Nationals candidate below him on the 2021 ballot paper for the South West region will likely fill the vacancy left by him.

Manjimup Community Resource Centre manager Louise Kingston was that candidate.
Seven years after the Donald Trump campaign exploited social media to upend liberal democracy and unleash a new paradigm of networked populist politics, the technology remains untouched by meaningful regulation.

Even as China, Russia and Iran use Western platforms to disseminate propaganda, and democracies face waves of domestic misinformation, a strategic approach toward the technology by society and government is absent.

Turning away from policing misinformation: Mark Zuckerberg and Elon Musk. Credit: AP

Facebook owner Meta has recently refused to act against some accounts posting racist and abusive material ahead of the Voice to parliament referendum. X-platform owner Elon Musk has relaxed the fight against political misinformation speech, the Washington Post reports.

After Trumps shock 2016 election, the prospect of a foreign government interfering with a sovereign election seemed to galvanise the public. Somewhat shocked by Facebooks role in the affair Mark Zuckerberg famously said it was crazy to think fake news had influenced voters.
The 930-passenger vessel is docked close to the memorial dedicated to the site where hostilities more or less marked the start of World War II in 1939 after the Germans attacked the port of Free City of Danzig, now modern-day Gdansk, with the Poles mounting a valiant but ultimately short-lived defence. Id read about the milk bars of Gdansk before I left Australia. My main objective once here on this relatively short visit is to not so much uncover the citys centuries of history, which is immense, but more to milk, as it were, its working-class culinary culture. Perhaps the most English-speaking tourist-friendly milk bar in Gdansk is the self-serve Bar Mleczny Stagiewna, located close to the boundaries of the gabled Old Town. (It seems that the term milk bar comes from the fact that the earliest versions were vegetarian-based though it still doesnt completely explain the nomenclature). Gdansks captivating Old Town is jam-packed with colourful, tall and narrow 16th and 17th-century Dutch-style merchant houses.

They were meticulously rebuilt, using only old architectural plans and monochrome photographs for reference, after the city was virtually destroyed by wartime bombing raids. Unlike its counterparts, such as Bar Neptun, elsewhere in the old town, Bar Mleczny Stagiewna, with its attractive frontage and signage, has been a little spruced up, seemingly for the benefit of foreign clientele, with Traditional Polish Cuisine emblazoned on its windows and facade. However, the dishes do ook and taste authentically Polish, at least to my palate, and there are more Poles dining here at lunchtime than foreigners like me. Lunch at Bar Bambino, a Polish milk bar: a glass of kompot, and pork schnitzel with red cabbage and buttered potatoes. Credit: Alamy Although English can be limited or non-existent at Polish milk bars theres often some English translation on menus and signage. Failing that, simply point to what you fancy as all of the dishes are on display.

I order a main dish consisting of a pair of plump and tender chicken dumplings served in a light white sauce with rice and carrots along with a refreshing and summery cucumber and dill salad side. While delighted with my dish I do have a pang of food envy in passing up the pierogi - the classic Polish potato or cheese-filled dumplings - thats a feature of many plates around me in the al fresco dining space just outside Bar Mleczny Stagiewna. I dont notice any milk shakes on offer but customers can order a variety of flavoured smoothie-like milk drinks. Our strawberry-flavoured number almost perfectly matches the near fluorescent pink colour of the ubiquitous Chlodnik, Polish cold beetroot soup, a dish popular in summer and the chilled version of borscht. All in all, a meal for two here costs the equivalent of not much more than $30 (and it would have been even cheaper had I settled for those bargain pierogi).

This is classic and delicious comfort food, Polish style and, really, dont even bother thinking about dining at the citys fancier establishments, unless youre here for more than a day or so. Pleasingly, theres time to visit another milk bar for lunch again the next day as we have an unplanned and bonus day in Gdansk after a visit to the Swedish port city of Karlskrona is cancelled due to bad weather. Pierogi dumplings - a Polish staple. Credit: Alamy Elsewhere, about halfway along Dluga Street (the Old Towns main pedestrian drag) there is Bar Neptun, named after Neptunes Fountain, the historic mannerist-rococo water feature below to the imposing Gothic Renaissance Town Hall which houses a worthwhile museum. A trifle less fancy than Bar Mleczny Stagiewna, here I order a potato pancake filled and topped with generous, yes, lashings, of goulash and mushrooms and is served by a beret-wearing cook with a Rasputin-like beard.

Bar Neptun is the sort of place you can imagine Lech Walesa, the former Polish president, Solidarity dissident and adopted son of Gdansk, recognisable for bushy walrus-style moustache, frequenting. If anything my chosen Bar Neptun dish, consumed streetside in mid-summer overlooking the Town Hall, is even more enjoyable than those chicken dumplings back at Bar Mleczny Stagiewna. Here in Gdansk, theres still time, though only just, before we need to return to the ship for the next leg of the cruise, to visit one final milk bar for a quick dessert. We choose Bar Turystyczny which houses a wall decorated with enlarged black and white photos showing scenes of the establishment, which dates to 1956 including a white-robed waitress or cook (who somehow resembles a nurse) ladling some kind of soup from a giant pot. This milk bars name translates as Bar Tourist but we seem to be the only tourists, at least non-Polish ones, here, and some considerable confusion ensues between us and the non-English-speaking cashier of our choice of eating implements for our shared dessert.

Lets hope it stays that way and most of the Western tourist hordes stay away, lest these milk bars become commoditised let alone, heaven forbid, franchised. The truth is these eateries sure are Poles apart from a McDonalds (you want a cold shocking pink soup with that?) THE DETAILS Cruise Viking Cruises 15-day Northern European Viking Homelands voyage from Stockholm to Bergen, or vice versa, and including a stop in to Gdansk, from $9595 a person, including 11 shore excursions, with a $2000 flight credit on offer per couple until August 28. There are departures available between May and August 2024 and April and August, 2025. See viking.com.au Fly
Paris: France will ban children in public schools from wearing the abaya, a loose-fitting, full-length robe worn by some Muslim women, the government said this week. It said the measure was necessary to stem a growing number of disputes in its secular school system.

But critics called the ban a discriminatory policing of teenagers clothing, fuelling yet another debate in France over the way Muslim women dress, which has become a recurring flashpoint in the countrys relations with its Muslim minority.

The French Council of the Muslim Faith says the abaya is not religious in its nature but an ill-defined garment tied to Arab culture. Credit: AP

Since 2004, middle and high school students in France have been barred from wearing ostentatious symbols that have a clear religious meaning, such as a Catholic cross, a Jewish skullcap or a Muslim headscarf. Since 2011, it has also been illegal to wear a face-covering veil in public. French people broadly agree with those rules.

The abaya, however  a long dress that covers the legs and arms, but not the hands, feet or head  falls into a grey area. While it is popular in the Persian Gulf and in some Arab countries, it does not have a clear religious significance.
A researcher conducts a testing on levels of radioactive materials in seafood products at the Health and Environment Research Institute in Seoul, Aug. 24. Yonhap



The radiation levels in seawater near Korea were found to be within the safe range despite Japan's release of contaminated water from its crippled Fukushima nuclear power plant, Seoul's oceans ministry said Tuesday.



The ministry's emergency tests on four locations in its territorial waters and high seas showed that the concentration levels of cesium and tritium stood well below the standard set by the World Health Organization for drinking water, Vice Oceans Minister Park Sung-hoon said during a regular briefing on the Fukushima issue.



The Korean government has carried out emergency radiation tests on about 30 spots in the waters since Thursday when Japan began discharging radioactive water from the power plant into the ocean, and all the samples have met the safety standards.



No radiation has been detected in domestic seafood or imported marine products so far, Park added.



The government expanded the number of testing points from the previous 92 spots to 200 amid public concerns about the potential impact of the controversial release, and vowed to further raise its number to a total of 243 points next year.



"The government will sharply increase next year's budget to better respond to the Fukushima issue," Park said, noting that it seeks to set aside a budget of 738 billion won in 2024, up from this year's 528 billion won.



The budget aims to strengthen radiation checks on seawater and seafood in order to boost seafood consumption and support the fishing industry.



In total, the ministry sought a budget of 6.62 trillion won next year, marking a 3 percent rise from this year's one. (Yonhap)


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Establishing a digital presence and fostering a culture of education and community engagement are just some of the top strategies for the new brokerages making waves in the mortgage broking market.

The mortgage industry has grown steadily in recent years, with more than 2,700 mortgage brokerages established between September 30, 2020, and September 30, 2022, according to MFAA data.

Australian Broker talked to two brokerages at the pinnacle of this cohort - The Happy Finance Company and Resolve Finance - Nedlands - which both made the cut among six other excellence awardees vying for Bankwest New Brokerage of the Year at the Australian Mortgage Awards 2023 (AMAs).

Establishing a streamlined and dynamic user experience

One of the key themes among the top new brokerages was how they had embraced technology.

We understand that the mortgage industry is evolving rapidly, and clients expect more than just traditional services, said Matthew Goodyear (pictured above left), who co-founded The Happy Finance Company nearly two years ago on the Sunshine Coast.

To enhance the mortgage experience for our clients, we've introduced a few innovative approaches, said Goodyear, who co-directs the company with David French, Andrea Palella, and Matthew Crossley (all pictured below).

From left, Andrea Palella, Matthew Goodyear, Matthew Crossley, and David French

Part of this innovative approach is the companys digital platform and website, which has been designed to streamline the mortgage application process.

Our customers can submit documents electronically, track their application's progress, and receive real-time updates. This has significantly reduced processing times and improved the overall experience, Goodyear said.

Our website is not just a static page but a dynamic hub of information and resources. We regularly update it with informative articles, guides, and success stories. Our active presence on social media platforms also helps us engage with clients and share valuable insights.

Technology is also at the heart of business for Michele Jurak (pictured above right), franchise owner and one half of the husband-and-wife team at Resolve Finance in the Perth suburb of Nedlands.

Their platform also allows customers to upload documents, track their progress, and communicate with the team in real time.

In a tech-savvy era, we've recognised the importance of integrating technology to streamline the mortgage experience, Jurak said. This has not only improved efficiency but also enhanced client satisfaction by providing them with real-time updates.

Moreover, Jurak and her partner Norm Roberts (pictured in the Linkedin post below) have introduced personalised planning sessions in the mortgage consultations.

This holistic approach helps clients align their home financing with their broader financial goals, Jurak said. It's this commitment to offering comprehensive financial lending solutions that has set us apart and contributed to increased client retention and referrals.

Ultimately, these innovations have translated into improved client experiences, shorter processing times, and increased word-of-mouth referrals, positively impacting our business outcomes and establishing us as a modern and client-focused brokerage in the competitive mortgage landscape.

See LinkedIn post here.

The value of experience when educating clients

While the brokerages themselves are new, the people behind them offer decades of valuable experience and are primed to make a long-lasting impact in the industry.

Since 2004, Jurak and Roberts have helped thousands of clients with their financial needs and aspirations across various roles in the banking and finance space.

In 2021, together they establish their brokerage franchise though Resolve Finance, blending decades of experience towards assisting customers across a range of asset classes.

Building a reputable brand quickly in the mortgage industry requires a multi-faceted approach. Our teams diverse background in finance, real estate, and business consulting allows us to offer comprehensive solutions and insights beyond the traditional scope of brokerage services, Jurak said.

By showcasing our expertise through client seminars, industry talks, and content sharing, we've positioned ourselves as trusted advisors rather than just transactional brokers.

The four directors at The Happy Finance Company also bring a wealth of experience to the new venture and use it to provide clients with educational resources, including webinars, videos, and articles, to help them understand the mortgage process better.

Informed clients are more confident and satisfied with their decisions, said Goodyear who has worked with the three other directors for more than five years in a previous role.

Commitment to community

The final common thread between these two brokerages is their commitment to their communities.

Jurak said she was passionate about helping people achieve their financial goals through homeownership.

By hosting seminars, participating in local events, and sharing valuable market insights, we've built trust and positioned ourselves as not just mortgage brokers, but as financial advisors dedicated to our clients long-term financial well-being, she said.

Goodyear said his team were also active in their local community, sponsoring events and participating in charitable activities.

This demonstrates our commitment to the wellbeing of our community and fosters good will.
By Fred Ojambo and Helen Nyambura

Airtel Uganda Ltd. plans to raise as much as 800 billion shillings ($216 million) in an initial public offering, making it the nations biggest share sale.



The company priced its IPO at 100 shillings apiece valuing the nations second-biggest telecommunications carrier at 4 trillion shillings. The unit of billionaire Sunil Mittals Airtel Africa Plc is selling a 20 per cent stake, or 8 billion shares, on the Uganda Securities Exchange to fulfill a regulatory requirement.

The offer opens on Wednesday and closes on Oct. 13, according to a prospectus released in the capital, Kampala, on Tuesday. The company will start trading on the exchange on Oct. 31.

Uganda has asked telecommunications companies to sell at least 20 per cent on its bourse to increase local shareholding and deepen its capital markets. If Airtel Uganda reaches its IPO target, it will become Ugandas biggest company by market value.

MTN Uganda Ltd., which listed in 2021, is worth 3.8 trillion shillings. Its IPO was under-subscribed and it raised $150 million, about two-thirds of the target amount. Its share has lost 15 per cent from the 200 shilling offer price.

Absa Bank Uganda Ltd. is the lead transaction adviser to the IPO, while Crested Capital is the lead sponsoring broker.
Central think tank NITI Aayog and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) on Tuesday signed a memorandum of understanding to formalise a cooperative framework to fast-track India's pursuit to achieve its sustainable development goals (SDGs), the Aayog said.

The memorandum of understanding will focus on the two organisations' cooperation on a range of areas, including SDG localisation, data-driven monitoring, Aspirational Districts and Blocks, among others, NITI Aayog said in a press release.

"Over the years, NITI Aayog and UNDP's collaboration has grown from strength to strength. With monitoring going beyond districts down to the block level, we see this partnership fostering data-driven policy interventions and programmatic action," said BVR Subrahmanyan, Chief Executive Officer of NITI Aayog.

He added: "Standing at the midpoint of the 2030 agenda, we look forward to working together with the states in the true spirit of cooperative federalism. We also look forward to partnering with UNDP to showcase and share India's successes in realising its development priorities with its peers."

NITI Aayog is the nodal body for the monitoring of SDGs in India and reviews the process through a nationwide SDG index. The memorandum of understanding between the think tank and UNDP was signed for a period of years.

"Midway to 2030, India's leadership is critical for making the SDGs a reality. India nearly halved multidimensional poverty between 2015-2016 and 2019-2021, demonstrating that despite complex challenges, accelerating progress towards the Goals is possible," said Shoko Noda, Resident Representative of UNDP India.

She added: "Through this memorandum of understanding with NITI Aayog, UNDP stands ready to enhance its support for localisation of the SDGs, data-driven decision-making through various indices, the Aspirational Districts and Blocks programme, and SDG financing. UNDP will also provide support for NITI Aayog's work on women's livelihoods, innovation, and Mission LiFE."
India and New Zealand will work together to better cooperate on civil aviation by scheduling new routes, codeshare services, traffic rights, and capacity entitlement.

Both countries signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on Tuesday to make the partnership official. Rajiv Bansal, secretary at the Ministry of Civil Aviation and David Pine, the New Zealand High Commissioner, signed the document in the presence of Jyotiraditya M Scindia, the Minister for Civil Aviation of India and Damien O'Connor, the Minister for Trade and Export Growth, Agriculture, Biosecurity, Land Information, and Rural Communities of New Zealand.

Earlier, the two countries had signed an air services agreement in Auckland in May 2016. The MoU signed today aims to boost further the bilateral ties in civil aviation between the two countries.

According to the new partnership, designated airlines from New Zealand may operate any number of services with any type of aircraft, with third and fourth freedom traffic rights. This can happen at six points in India: New Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai, Hyderabad, and Kolkata.

Similarly, the designated airlines of India may operate any number of services with any type of aircraft with third and fourth freedom traffic rights to & and from Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch in New Zealand. Three more points remain to be named by the government of India.

Moreover, the designated airlines from both countries may also operate "any number of all-cargo services with any type of aircraft with third, fourth and fifth freedom traffic rights to/from any points in the territory of the other party via any intermediate point(s) and to any beyond point(s) regardless of the points specified in the route schedule," as stated in the civil aviation ministry's official release.

Jyotiraditya Scindia commented on the partnership: "We have signed an MoU that has opened the possibilities of furthering air transport between our two countries. The open sky policy has been put in place. The point of calls has been increased. We have also increased intermediate points."

The two nations are discussing introducing the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) payment system in New Zealand . This would go a long way in promoting ease of business, trade and tourism between the countries.

These issues were discussed during a bilateral meeting between Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal and Damien O'Connor on Monday.

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The UAE, Bhutan and Nepal have already adopted the UPI payment system.
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Shares of Bharat Forge hit a 52-week high of Rs 1,071.15, up 2 per cent on the BSE in Tuesday's intra-day trade, after the company announced Kalyani Rafael Advanced Systems has secured contract worth Rs 287.5 crore from the Ministry of Defence for the supply of Missile Systems.In a regulatory filing, the company informed that Kalyani Rafael Advanced Systems Private Limited, a joint venture between Kalyani Strategic Systems Limited (a wholly owned Defence subsidiary of Bharat Forge Limited) and Rafael Advanced Systems Limited of Israel, has bagged an order amounting to Rs 287.5 crore from the Ministry of Defence for the supply of Missile Systems.The order is expected to be executed over the next 12 months.Last week, Kalyani Strategic Systems bagged two export orders aggregating to EURO 93.87 million (around Rs 850 crore) from friendly countries for supply of components and armoured vehicle chassis to be executed over a 18 months' timeframe. This is subject to necessary government approvals.Bharat Forge is the flagship company of the Kalyani Group and a global provider of high performance, innovative, safety and critical components and solutions to various sectors including automotive, railways, defence, construction & aining, aerospace, marine, and oil & gas.In the past one month, the stock has rallied 15 per cent as compared to 2.2 per cent decline in the S&P BSE Sensex. In the past six months, it has surged 30 per cent as against 10.3 per cent rise in the benchmark index.According to analysts at Prabhudas Lilladher, defense has ramped-up and Bharat Forge sees 10 per cent of total revenues coming from Defence in FY24 (6 per cent in Q1), which would ramp up over the next few years. Aerospace is also expected to show a strong growth over the next few years. Auto segments in India and export will continue with steady performance and Bharat Forge has good visibility over the next 12 months.The brokerage firm said it remains positive on Bharat Forge given multiple growth drivers in domestic and export automotive segment (upcycle in CV industry & easing chip shortage helping PVs), strong order book leading to a strong growth in high margin non-auto segment, contribution from defense & renewable segment, and rising traction in E-mobility division.
China has officially released the 2023 edition of its "standard map," which shows the state of Arunachal Pradesh and the Aksai Chin region as part of its territory.

The map released on August 28 shows Arunachal Pradesh which China claims as South Tibet and Aksai Chin occupied by it in the 1962 war as part of its territory. Taiwan and the disputed South China Sea are also included within the Chinese territory in the new map.

The map also incorporates China's claims over the nine-dash line thus laying claim to a large part of the South China Sea.

Vietnam, the Philippines, Malaysia, and Brunei have all claims over the South China Sea areas.

The map was released by China's Ministry of Natural Resources during the celebration of Surveying and Mapping Publicity Day and the National Mapping Awareness Publicity Week on Monday in Deqing county, Zhejiang province, as per China Daily newspaper.

Recently Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Xi Jinping met on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit in Johannesburg, South Africa.

Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra had said in his conversation with President Xi Jinping, Prime Minister Modi highlighted India's concerns on unresolved issues along the Line of Actual Control in the Western Sector of the India-China border areas.

"The Prime Minister underlined that maintenance of peace and tranquillity in the border areas and observing and respecting the LAC are essential for the normalisation of the India-China relationship. In this regard, two leaders agreed to direct their relevant officials to intensify efforts at expeditious disengagement and de-escalation," Kwatra had said.

According to China Daily, an English-language daily newspaper owned by the Central Propaganda Department of the Chinese Communist Party, the

The chief planner of China's Ministry of Natural Resources, Wu Wenzhong, said surveying, mapping and geographic information play an important role in boosting the development of the nation, meeting the needs of all walks of life, supporting the management of natural resources, and helping the construction of ecology and civilization.

"The next step will be to accelerate the application of geographic information data such as digital maps and navigation and positioning in the development of the digital economy, such as location-based services, precision agriculture, platform economy and intelligent connected vehicles," Wu said, as per China Daily.

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Zhejiang has in recent years focused on the deep integration of the digital and real economies and has continued to promote the development of the digital economy, according to Li Yaowu, deputy secretary-general of the Zhejiang Provincial People's Government.

China has territorial disputes with more countries than it shares its borders with. The Chinese Communist Party, the CCP, with Xi Jinping at the helm, has used deceitful tactics and manipulation in order to attempt to assert territorial control over other sovereign territories. Beijing has flouted all international norms in its expansionist bid to control more territory.

China has now staked claims on parts of India's northeastern state of Arunachal Pradesh, arguing that these locations were part of greater Tibet.

A desperate Beijing had in April this year unilaterally "renamed" as many as 11 Indian locations, which included names of mountain peaks, rivers and residential areas.

This is not the first time that Beijing has employed such tactics. Previously in 2017 and 2021, China's Civil Affair Ministry had renamed other Indian locations triggering another political confrontation. New Delhi called out China's expansionist plans then.

Previously, the official spokesperson for the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Arindam Bagchi, while commenting on China's attempt to show its domination in places belonging to India's Arunachal Pradesh said: "This is not the first time that China has attempted something like this (changing the names of areas in Arunachal Pradesh) and we have already condemned any such attempts. Regarding Arunachal Pradesh, we had also said that Arunachal Pradesh is an inseparable part of India) and imposing invented names like these will not at all change the reality.
Former Prime Minister Imran Khan's bail plea in the Toshakhana case was approved by the accountability court in Islamabad, ARY news reported on Tuesday.

Judge Abul Hasnat Muhammad Zulaqrnain heard the case and granted bail to Bushra Bibi till September 12 in the Toshakhana case.

Bushra Bibi's bail was accepted against surety bonds worth 500,000 Pakistani Rupees (PKR).

The former first lady has been accused of keeping a locket, chain, earrings, two rings and bracelet from the Toshakhana gifts. She is also accused of keeping gold, diamonds, necklaces, and bracelets, according to ARY news.

The NAB has maintained that the gifts were not submitted to the Toshakhana to calculate their prices.

Notably, the Toshakhana issue became a major sticking point in national politics after the Election Commission of Pakistan disqualified the PTI chief for making "false statements and incorrect declaration", ARY News reported.

Earlier in the day, the Islamabad High Court (IHC) suspended the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf Chairman's conviction and three-year jail sentence in the Toshakhana case, Dawn News reported.

The bench comprising Chief Justice Aamer Farooq and Justice Tariq Mehmood Jahangiri on the former prime minister's appeal against his prison term announced the much-anticipated order, that comes months ahead of the national elections in the country.

According to Dawn News, the trial court in Islamabad had convicted the PTI chief in the case filed by the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) that involved concealing details of state gifts and jailed him for three years. The verdict meant he was disqualified from contesting general elections for five years.

Pakistan district and sessions court on August 5, sentenced Imran Khan to three years in prison in the Toshakhana case i.e. for illegally selling state gifts and disqualified him from politics for a period of five years, local media reported. He was lodged in Attock Jail in Punjab province in the country.

The PTI Chairman was arrested from his Zaman Park residence in Lahore soon after being convicted in the Toshakhana case. The court also imposed a fine of Pakistani Rupees (PKR) 100,000 on Imran Khan, Geo News reported.
India and New Zealand are discussing the possibility of introducing the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) in the island country with a view to promoting ease of doing business, trade and tourism between the countries, the commerce ministry said on Tuesday.

The two countries are also looking at ways to allow the import of wooden logs from New Zealand.

These issues were discussed during a bilateral meeting between Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal and New Zealand's Minister for Trade and Export Growth Damien O'Connor on Monday here.

"Ministers welcomed early discussions between National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) and Payments NZ regarding the UPI system and agreed that both sides should continue deliberations on this issue. They agreed that introduction of UPI in New Zealand would promote ease of doing business between both the countries and promote trade and tourism as well," the ministry said.

In 2022, the National Payments Corporation Of India (NPCI), the umbrella organisation offering UPI services, signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with France's fast and secure online payment system, called Lyra. In 2023, UPI and Singapore's PayNow signed an agreement, allowing users in either country to make cross-border transactions.

The UAE, Bhutan and Nepal have already adopted the UPI payment system.

The NPCI international is in talks to extend the UPI services in the US, European countries, and West Asia.

On mangoes, the ministry said India recently started exporting mangoes to New Zealand.

Further, it said that the two sides discussed possible innovative technical collaboration in the field of agriculture and horticulture, including Kiwi fruit; pharmaceutical; processing, storage and transportation.

"Ministers acknowledged the desirability of improving air connectivity between New Zealand and India, and welcomed the finalisation of the MoU to further liberalise the bilateral Air Services Agreement between the two countries," it added.

India's exports to the island country rose to USD 548 million in 2022-23 from USD 487.6 million in 2021-22. Imports too have increased to USD 478 million in 2022-23 from USD 375 million in 2021-22.

Indian students are the second largest number of international students for New Zealand. India primarily imports logs and forestry products, wood pulp, wool and edible fruit and nuts. Main exports include pharmaceuticals, precious metals and gems, textiles and motor vehicles and non-knitted apparel and accessories.

Also Read India extends UPI services to France, first in Europe after Singapore Zomato temporarily suspends rollout of UPI enrolment for new users ICICI Bank to offer EMI facility for UPI transactions above Rs 10,000 You may soon be able to make UPI payments by talking or just tapping phone Ease of doing business improved; still long way to go in many areas: CII China's state banks to cut rates on mortgages, deposits in stimulus push UAE participates in G20 Digital Economy Ministerial Meeting, praises India Only recession can tame West's inflation, says adviser to UK chancellor Technical issue with UK's air traffic control to cause chaos for days China pledges to speed up fiscal spending to boost economy: Report

All major Indian IT companies are present in New Zealand. Bank of India, Bank of Baroda and New India Assurance have commercial operations in that country.
Canva, the worlds only all-in-one visual communication platform, today celebrates the 10-year anniversary of Co-founders Melanie Perkins, Cliff Obrecht and Cameron Adams launching Canva with the ambitious mission to empower the world to design.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230828160732/en/

Canva opened its new London office in May 2023. (Photo: Business Wire)

While it all started from humble beginnings around a table in Perth, Australia, Canva has now scaled to a team of more than 4,000 employees across eight campuses. A decade since its inception, Canva has emerged as the pioneer of the mass market visual communication category, and is now synonymous with quick and easy design. More than 135 million people use Canvas platform every month, and together, theyve created more than 17 billion designs.

From presentations to documents, videos and websites, today, more than 200 new designs are created in Canva every second. The companys growth continues to accelerate, having added more than 45 million new monthly users in the last 12 months, a figure that originally took eight years to achieve. Canva enters its second decade with more than $1.5 billion in annualized revenue, and a six-year track record of profitability.

Were incredibly proud to mark this milestone moment and its just the beginning. Empowering the whole world to design has been our mission for the last decade and this remains just as critical as it was when we first launched Canva back in 2013," said Canva Co-founder and CEO, Melanie Perkins. Were very fortunate to have had the support and contributions of millions of people who have shaped Canvas journey  from our earliest investors and those who are joining us today for our next phase of growth, to our amazing global community and team who create magic every single day.

The last two years in particular have seen Canva rapidly expand its presence amongst enterprises and workplaces. The company now counts brands including Zoom, FedEx, Starbucks and Salesforce as enterprise customers using Canvas visual communication platform to manage and scale global brands. This rapid surge in demand is evidenced by the more than one million people now listing Canva as a core skill on their LinkedIn profile  a figure that has increased by 72% year-over-year.

Building a $40 billion household name

Canva launched nearly a decade ago with the goal of taking a fragmented design ecosystem, integrating it all into one simple page, and making it accessible to the whole world. Canvas Co-founder and CEO Melanie Perkins first came up with the idea for Canva while studying at the University of Western Australia in Perth, Australia, and teaching design programs to her classmates.

After seeing students struggle with using the current tools in the market, Melanie alongside Cliff Obrecht (now Canvas Chief Operations Officer) launched Fusion Books which took the idea of a simple design tool and applied it to the niche market of school yearbooks. During a five-year period, Fusion Books grew to be the largest yearbook company in Australia, and expanded into France and New Zealand. Having known all along that the technology they'd developed could be applied more broadly, Melanie, Cliff, and now Canvas Chief Product Officer Cameron Adams, set out to raise funding before officially launching Canva in 2013.

In 2021, after achieving a lifetime-worth of milestones including a series of strategic Europe-based acquisitions and 75 million monthly users, Canva became one of the most valuable private software companies in the world with its valuation skyrocketing from $6 billion to $40 billion in under 18 months.

A decade of empowering the world to design

A decade into its journey, and with the launch of its Visual Suite and AI tools now under its belt, Canva is now the only all-in-one visual communication platform in the world. Individual creators, schools, nonprofits, and workplaces have embraced the power of simple design, photos, collaboration features, videos and AI to stand out in an increasingly visual world.

The ease of use, collaborative nature and breadth of Canvas product suite has seen increased adoption across the globe, with workplace usage soaring across a wide variety of professions and industries including 85% of the Fortune 500.

The company has also progressed towards its deeper mission which it refers to as a Two-Step Plan: Step one is to build one of the worlds most valuable companies; Step two is to do the most good it can.

From the 400,000 nonprofits and 45 million teachers and students using Canva for free, to its partnership with GiveDirectly to distribute a $30 million cash transfer program for people living in extreme poverty in Malawi, with 30% of the company pledged towards social good, Canvas progress towards Step One through the growth of its business continues to unlock its philanthropic ambitions for Step Two.

Looking ahead, Canva shows no signs of slowing down as the company celebrates this important milestone.

About Canva

Launched in 2013, Canva is a free online visual communications and collaboration platform with a mission to empower everyone in the world to design. Featuring a simple drag-and-drop user interface and a vast range of templates ranging from presentations, documents, websites, social media graphics, posters, and apparel to videos, plus a huge library of fonts, stock photography, illustrations, video footage, and audio clips, caanyone can take an idea and create something beautiful.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230828160732/en/
South Korean Foreign Minister Park Jin, left, and Slovenian Foreign Minister Tanja Fajon, right, hold talks in Slovenia, Aug. 28, in this photo provided by the South Korean foreign ministry. Yonhap



Foreign Minister Park Jin has held a flurry of discussions with leaders of European nations to seek support for South Korea's bid to host the 2030 World Expo, his office said Tuesday.



On the sidelines of the 2023 Bled Strategic Forum held in Slovenia the previous day, Park held bilateral talks with his counterparts from Armenia, North Macedonia, Slovakia and Switzerland, and paid a courtesy visit to Bulgarian Prime Minister Nikolay Denkov.



Park stressed that the southeastern port city of Busan would be the "best choice" for the World Expo in his back-to-back meetings, during which the European leaders said they would seriously consider its candidacy, according to the ministry.



They also reaffirmed their support for South Korea's "audacious" initiative to offer economic assistance to the North in exchange for denuclearization steps, as Park addressed the escalating military provocations from Pyongyang.



At the opening ceremony of the forum, Park briefly met Greek President Katerina Sakellaropoulou, Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic and several other leaders to rally their support for South Korea's bid.



Park also held a brief meeting with Canadian Foreign Minister Melanie Joly and discussed follow-up measures on agreements reached by the leaders of the two countries at a summit meeting in May, including critical mineral supply chains and high-level economic security dialogue.



The Bled Strategic Forum is an annual international conference on diplomacy and security, bringing together experts and policymakers from Central and Southeastern Europe.



Park was on a four-day visit to Turkey and Slovenia, where he attended a session of the forum as the first South Korean foreign minister to do so. (Yonhap)


This photo provided by Seoul's foreign ministry shows the 27th meeting of the bilateral joint economic committee, led by Korea's Second Vice Foreign Minister Oh Young-ju and Li Fei, China's assistant minister of commerce, in Beijing, Aug. 29. Yonhap



Korea and China held high-level bilateral economic talks Tuesday and discussed ways to ensure stable supply chains and the strengthening of bilateral economic cooperation, Seoul's foreign ministry said.



The 27th meeting of the bilateral joint economic committee, led by Korea's Second Vice Foreign Minister Oh Young-ju and Li Fei, China's assistant minister of commerce, was held in Beijing earlier in the day, according to the ministry.



At the meeting, the two sides discussed the stable management of supply chains and bilateral economic cooperation, Lim Soo-suk, spokesperson for the ministry, said in a regular briefing.



"Both sides agreed on the importance of maintaining stable supply chains and decided to further solidify cooperation by activating various Korean-Chinese economic consultation bodies," he added.



At the meeting, Oh also stressed that progress in negotiations for a bilateral service sector investment agreement will help the two countries generate momentum for the expansion of trade and investment.



She also delivered Seoul's intention to enhance cooperation with Beijing for intellectual property protection and requested support for Korea's bid to host the 2030 World Expo in Busan.



Li mentioned the need to expand cooperation in new areas, such as the digital economy and green development, between the two countries.



He also expressed China's commitment to strengthen economic cooperation with Korea in terms of the countries' rural developments and to bolster regional cooperation in Northeast Asia and on the multilateral stage. (Yonhap)


South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol, left, poses with his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping during their bilateral talks at a hotel in Bali, Indonesia, in this file photo taken on Nov. 15, 2022. Korea Times file



South Korea and China are in talks to arrange a summit between Presidents Yoon Suk Yeol and Xi Jinping on the sidelines of a multilateral summit event early next month, officials said Tuesday.



The discussions come as bilateral relations appear to be thawing following tensions in recent months over Yoon's remarks on Taiwan and the Chinese ambassador to Seoul's thinly veiled warning against South Korea's alignment with the United States.



"The two countries' diplomatic authorities are exchanging elementary views" on the possibility of a summit, a senior government official told Yonhap News Agency.



A presidential official also said "positive signals" have been detected with regard to the development of South Korea-China relations.



Earlier this month, China lifted a ban on group tours to South Korea. The ban had been in place for more than six years amid tension over South Korea's hosting of the THAAD U.S. missile defense system.



Yoon and Xi held their first summit on the sidelines of a Group of 20 summit in Bali, Indonesia, last November. (Yonhap)


Monday, August 28, 2023 at 7:25PM

Zack Snyder is no stranger to genre-hopping. He has explored zombies, superheroes, owls, and female empowerment in his diverse filmography. Now, he ventures into a new territory: science fiction. Snyders ambitious space opera was a tough pitch. It started as a Star Wars spin-off inspired by Seven Samurai, but without the familiar characters, it was a tough sell for Lucasfilm. Undeterred, Snyder brought his 172-page script to Netflix, where it became a two-part epic: Rebel Moon: Part One  A Child of Fire and Rebel Moon: Part Two  The Scargiver. And the first movies trailer and the release dates for both parts have just been revealed.

At Gamescom, Zack Snyder teased a video game tie-in and praised Netflix for supporting his duology vision. Part One debuts on Netflix on December 23, while Part Two follows on April 19, 2024. He also spotlighted Anthony Hopkins  whose voice narrates the trailer  and his robotic role but claimed Sofia Boutella was the soul of the story.

Rebel Moon tells the tale of a young woman from a tranquil colony at the edge of the galaxy. She must recruit warriors to repel an invasion by the tyrannical Regent Balisarius. The trailer gives off a gritty and dark version of Star Wars.

Source
Meet Geetika Srivastava, the First Indian Woman to Head India's Mission in Pakistan

Geetika Srivastava, an Indian Foreign Service (IFS) officer from the batch of 2005, will be the first woman to head India's mission in Pakistan since the independence of the nation. After M. Suresh Kumar, who is likely to return to New Delhi, Srivastava will serve as the charge d'affaires (CDA) in Islamabad.

The CDA is the highest senior diplomat in charge of India's mission in the bordering nation after both countries decreased the status of diplomats in each other's capitals. There aren't any high commissioners for either country at the moment.

Srivastava is in charge of managing the Indo-Pacific zone while serving as Joint Secretary in the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) head office at the moment. She performed diplomatic service at the Indian Embassy in China from 2007 to 2009 after becoming proficient in Mandarin as part of her study of foreign languages. She acquired additional experience working at the Regional Passport Office in Kolkata and holding the position of Director for the MEA's Indian Ocean Region division.

Since 1947, when Sri Prakasa was assigned to the then-Dominion of Pakistan as the Indian High Commissioner, New Delhi has only ever been represented by men; there have been 22 heads of mission during that time.

Ajay Bisaria served as the most recent Indian High Commissioner to Islamabad. His position was terminated when Pakistan decided to downgrade the High Commission as a reaction to the repeal of Article 370 in 2019.

Although not at the highest level, women diplomats have previously been assigned to Pakistan. Due to Islamabad's designation as a "non-family" posting for Indian diplomats a few years ago, it is also regarded as a difficult posting. This typically prevents female officers from accepting the post in Pakistan.

Although there have been female ambassadors stationed in Pakistan in the past, they haven't occupied the top positions. Serving in Islamabad is regarded as a difficult assignment because, until recently, Indian diplomats were not allowed to post there with their families, because Islamabad is designated as "non-family". This frequently discourages female officers from accepting missions in Pakistan.
MSBSHSE Exam Tentative Dates 2024 Announced, Check Here

The tentative dates for the Class 10 (SSC) and Class 12 (HSC) board exams have been issued by the Maharashtra State Board of Secondary and Higher Secondary Education (MSBSHSE). According to the tentative schedule, the HSC test will be held from February 21 through March 23, 2024, while the SSC exam will be held from March 1 through March 22, 2024.

The Maharashtra SSC and HSC 2024 tentative examination dates are available on the board's official website, mahahsscboard.in. Before the exam, the board will give the junior college and school the schedule for the practical test, oral exam, and other courses. The HSC and SSC Examination Dates issued by the Maharashtra Board have been made to be merely predictive. The final timetable and the dates it contains should be followed by pupils, and later on, the final dates will be issued by the Board on the official website.
Three Aegis-equipped destroyers  the Yulgok Yi I, right, of the South Korean Navy, the Benfold, center, of the U.S. Navy and the JS Atago of the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force  sail in waters off South Korea's east coast, April 17, in this photo released by the South Korean Navy. Yonhap



South Korea, the United States and Japan staged a trilateral missile defense exercise in the international waters south of the Korean Peninsula on Tuesday in response to North Korea's purported space rocket launch last week, officials said.



The exercise took place south of the southern island of Jeju after Pyongyang's attempt to launch its Chollima-1 rocket, carrying what it claimed to be a military reconnaissance satellite, was unsuccessful last Thursday, its second failure this year.



The latest drills featured three Aegis-equipped destroyers  South Korea's ROKS Yulgok Yi I, the U.S.' USS Benfold and the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force's JS Haguro, according to South Korea's Navy.



The Navy said the exercise took place in response to North Korea's advancing nuclear and missile threats, including the North's rocket launch last week, which it described as a "clear" violation of U.N. Security Council resolutions banning the country from any launches using ballistic missile technology.



Under the scenario of a ballistic missile launch by North Korea, the exercise focused on practicing procedures to detect and track a computer-simulated target and share related information, it said.



The exercise also inspected their information sharing systems as part of efforts to operationalize a system to share North Korean missile warning data in real time among the three countries by the end of this year as reaffirmed by their leaders in a summit earlier this month.



On Aug. 18, President Yoon Suk Yeol, U.S. President Joe Biden and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida met at the Camp David presidential retreat in Maryland, where they adopted a series of documents that outlined their commitments to enhance security and economic cooperation, such as holding annual trilateral exercises on a regular basis.



The three countries last held such a missile defense exercise in July. (Yonhap)


This photo shows the South Korea's national flag, center, flying at the defense ministry's headquarters in central Seoul, Jan. 31. Yonhap



South Korea's defense ministry on Tuesday requested a 4.5 percent on-year increase in its budget for next year, with a focus on reinforcing capabilities to counter North Korea's nuclear and missile threats.



The defense ministry is seeking a budget of 59.49 trillion won ($45 billion) for next year, compared with this year's 57 trillion won. The government plans to submit the proposal to the National Assembly on Friday for approval.



Of the total, the ministry seeks to spend 17.8 trillion won for weapons acquisitions and other projects to bolster defense capabilities  a 5.2 percent rise from the previous year  while earmarking 41.79 trillion won for running military forces, up 4.2 percent on-year.



The proposed budget includes 7.16 trillion won to bolster the country's "three-axis" system that consists of the Kill Chain preemptive strike platform; the Korea Massive Punishment and Retaliation program; and the Korea Air and Missile Defense system (KAMD).






TUESDAY, Aug. 29, 2023 (HealthDay News) -- Men's testosterone levels remain pretty steady until age 70. After that, production of the male sex hormone starts to decline, new research indicates.

This begs the question: Is testosterone loss among seniors really a function of the normal aging process? Or might it reflect other health issues that often confront men as they get older?

Both may be true, say investigators, with obesity, high blood pressure, diabetes and even marital status among the factors that appear to drive testosterone levels down, in conjunction with age.

When testosterone does fall, the result may be increased weakness and fatigue, diminished sexual performance, loss of muscle mass, and a higher risk for diabetes and dementia.

While you can't do anything about your age, the findings suggest some positive lifestyle changes might help preserve your masculinity.

Study author Bu Yeap said that after 70 the pituitary gland at the base of the brain actually sends out signals to increase, not decrease, testosterone production.

To find out what might be short-circuiting that signal, the study team analyzed 11 studies from Australia, Europe and North America, involving some 25,000 men in total, said Yeap, an endocrinologist and medical school professor at the University of Western Australia.

All the studies were conducted prior to 2020. In each, men's testosterone levels were repeatedly measured over time using a technique called mass spectrometry.

Collectively, the data revealed that on average, testosterone levels are lower in older men compared to younger men, noted Yeap, who is also a past-president of the Endocrine Society of Australia.

But the analysis also indicated that concentrations of another testosterone-increasing hormone  LH (luteinizing hormone)  goes up after 70. And Yeap noted that testosterone declines directly attributed to age were deemed to be relatively modest.

Meanwhile, a wide range of other factors were found to contribute to a post-70 decline in testosterone. These included heart disease, smoking history, cancer, diabetes, high blood pressure, excess body weight, reduced activity and even marriage.

In particular, being overweight or obese was found to have a much more prominent association with lower testosterone levels, relative to older age alone, he added.

Men over 70 who took drugs to control high cholesterol levels were also found to have slightly lower testosterone levels, the analysis indicated.

As for marriage and long-term relationships, both were pegged as having a testosterone-dampening impact among seniors.

A possible explanation, Yeap suggested, could be that married men with families might be more stressed, and therefore have lower testosterone levels. But our study wasnt designed to look further into this result.

He said the main message is that a range of sociodemographic, lifestyle and medical factors influence testosterone levels in men.

These need to be considered when doctors interpret testosterone results from individual men, as testosterone levels might be lower than expected in the presence of these conditions, rather than being always due to an (age-related) problem with the testes, Yeap added.

Dr. Robert Eckel is past president of the American Heart Association, and past president of medicine and science with the American Diabetes Association.

After reviewing the findings, he stressed that the continuously emerging picture of testosterone production dynamics seems to be more complicated all the time.

But while noting how difficult it is to get a precise handle on the various reasons for falling testosterone, Eckel pointed to two potentially critical factors: LH levels and levels of a key protein (sex hormone-binding globulin, or SHBG) tasked with transporting testosterone throughout the body.

A drop in either  whether due to health complications or the march of time  could lead to a dip in testosterone levels and/or availability, Eckel said.

Since lower testosterone can undermine quality of life, what should a concerned man do?

Eckel and Yeap urged older patients to consult their doctor in order to determine whether or not testosterone supplementation therapy might be appropriate or helpful.

Testosterone treatment should only be given if there is a clear medical reason, stressed Yeap, and always under medical supervision.

The findings were published online Aug. 28 in the Annals of Internal Medicine.

More information

Harvard Medical School has more on testosterone and aging.

SOURCES: Bu B. Yeap, MBBS, PhD, professor, Medical School, University of Western Australia, Crawley, Australia, and endocrinologist, Fiona Stanley Hospital, Perth, Western Australia, and past-president, Endocrine Society of Australia; Robert H. Eckel, MD, past president, American Heart Association and past president of medicine and science, American Diabetes Association, and professor of medicine, emeritus, division of endocrinology, metabolism & diabetes, and division of cardiology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus; Annals of Internal Medicine, Aug. 28, 2023, online
South Korea, the United States and Japan hold a joint naval drill in international waters south of Jeju Island, Tuesday. Courtesy of South Korean Navy



NK leader slams 'gang bosses' of trilateral partnership



By Lee Hyo-jin



South Korea, the United States and Japan held trilateral missile defense drills on Tuesday, in a show of force against growing North Korean military threats, including a recent rocket launch.



The exercise, which took place in international waters south of Jeju Island, involved three Aegis destroyers: ROKS Yulgok Yi, USS Benfold and JS Haguro, according to the South Korean Navy.



The Navy said the exercise was held in response to Pyongyang's growing missile and nuclear threats including the recent launch of a space vehicle, which "clearly violates U.N. Security Council resolutions that ban any launches by North Korea using ballistic technologies."



North Korea launched what it called a military spy satellite, the Malligyong-1, on Thursday  a second attempt following the first failed launch in May  which also ended in failure. The North is poised to make another attempt in October.



"The training exercise focused on practicing procedures of detecting and tracking a simulated target under the scenario of North Korea's ballistic missile provocations," the Navy said adding that the allies shared information regarding virtual ballistic missile targets in the exercise.



The exercise also included an inspection of the real-time information-sharing system on North Korea's missile warning data, as a follow-up measure to an agreement signed by the leaders of the three countries earlier this month.



During a three-way summit held at Camp David on Aug. 18 (local time), President Yoon Suk Yeol, U.S. President Joe Biden and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida expressed commitment to activating a real-time missile warning data-sharing system by the end of this year and holding annual multi-domain military exercises.



Tuesday's drill was the fifth trilateral naval exercise to be held under the Yoon administration as South Korea continues to expand security ties with the U.S. and Japan to counter North Korea's evolving missile threats.



On the same day, Gen. Anthony Cotton, commander of the U.S. Strategic Command, arrived in South Korea to reiterate the U.S.' commitment to its allies in Northeast Asia, according to U.S. Forces Korea (USFK).



He was briefed by USFK commander Gen. Pal LaCamera on the combined military drills, called Ulchi Freedom Shield (UFS), involving South Korean and U.S. troops currently being held across the nation.



Over the next two days, Cotton will meet senior South Korean officials to discuss ways the two countries can contribute to the stability of the Indo-Pacific region as discussed during the Camp David summit, the USFK said.





South Korean and U.S. troops take part in a joint military drill called the Ulchi Freedom Shield in waters off Yangyang, Gangwon Province, Monday. The 11-day annual joint exercise, which is based on an all-out war scenario, kicked off on Aug. 21. Courtesy of Republic of Korea Army



In an apparent sign that the North is growing increasingly wary about strengthened South Korea-U.S.-Japan trilateral cooperation, North Korean leader Kim Jong-un called for bolstering the nation's naval forces during his recent visit to the navy command to mark Navy Day, which falls on Monday.



"Recently, the gang bosses of the U.S., Japan and the 'Republic of Korea' were closeted with each other, where they announced that they would conduct, on a regular basis, tripartite joint military exercises under different codenames, and set about its implementation," Kim was quoted as saying by Pyongyang's state media, the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), Tuesday.





North Korean leader Kim Jong-un and his daughter Ju-ae visit the nation's navy command to mark Navy Day which falls on Monday, in this photo released by North Korea's state media Korean Central News Agency, Tuesday. Yonhap
Gen. Anthony J. Cotton, left, commander of the U.S. Strategic Command, meets with Gen. Paul LaCamera, commander of the U.S. Forces Korea (USFK) at CP Tango, a key U.S.-controlled wartime bunker, Tuesday, in this photo provided by the USFK. Yonhap



The commander of a key U.S. military unit in charge of overseeing the country's nuclear arsenal visited South Korea on Tuesday to reaffirm America's "ironclad" commitment to its ally, the U.S. Forces Korea (USFK) said, amid ongoing major military drills between the allies.



Gen. Anthony J. Cotton, chief of the U.S. Strategic Command, arrived in South Korea earlier in the day as the allies have been staging the annual Ulchi Freedom Shield (UFS) exercise since Aug. 21 to strengthen the combined defense posture.



Cotton met with U.S. Ambassador to Seoul Philip Goldberg and discussed South Korea's role for peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula and in the Indo-Pacific region.



He later visited CP Tango, a key U.S.-controlled wartime command bunker complex, to meet USFK Commander Gen. Paul LaCamera, where he was briefed on the ongoing UFS.



During his trip, Cotton will meet with senior South Korean officials to discuss ways the two sides can contribute to the stability of the Indo-Pacific region as discussed in the Washington Declaration issued by the two countries in April and a recent trilateral summit between the leaders of South Korea, the U.S. and Japan, according to the USFK.



On Aug. 18, President Yoon Suk Yeol, U.S. President Joe Biden and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida met at the Camp David presidential retreat in Maryland, where they adopted a series of documents that outlined their commitments to enhance security and economic cooperation, such as launching an annual Trilateral Indo-Pacific Dialogue.



It marks Cotton's first visit to the Western Pacific region since taking office in December last year, according to the USFK. (Yonhap)


The manager of Victorias Secret at Hamilton Place Mall told police two black females came into the store twice and stole merchandise. The manager said the women came in at 12:30 p.m. and again at 3:20 p.m. The total loss in merchandise was approximately $2,200.

* * *

A man on Kirby Avenue told police his uncle's dirt bike had been stolen from the front porch. The uncle called and confirmed the dirt bike was stolen. The bike was blue and white with a gold Monster sticker on the right side rear fender. The bike was entered into NCIC.

* * *

A woman on Chestnut Street told police her bike had been stolen from the small fenced area where she keeps it. This area also houses the bikes of other people who live at the apartments. Her apartment had video footage of the theft and the suspect. She valued the bike around $200. Police sent out a photo of the suspect for possible ID. If the suspect is identified, appropriate action will be taken.

* * *

A man told police his wifes car was keyed while she was at work at Amazon at 7200 Discovery Dr. He said when she returned home, they discovered the black Hyundai Santa Fe had been damaged on the passenger side.

* * *

A man on Chestnut Street told police his bike was stolen. He said it was a black and gray Trek 5300 mountain bike with a little red. He noticed a man enter the garage and shortly after noticed the emergency exit alarm was going off. He later noticed his bike was stolen.

* * *

A man on McBriend Road was instructed to evacuate the area due to a chemical spill. He required additional support. Police assisted the man by transporting him to an apartment on E. Brainerd Road.

* * *

A woman at an address on E. Main Street told police she noticed that the front door of the apartment complex had been broken. Police saw the front door, valued at about $700, was broken by a brick. The brick was in the lobby of the apartment complex. Police were able to get in contact with the courtesy officer and he said he would secure the door.

* * *

An employee of Circle K at 600 Ashland Terrace told police a homeless white male with face tattoos had been walking around the lot, yelling at his shoe and entering garbage cans. She wanted the man to stay off the property. When police arrived, the man had already left and police couldnt find him in the area.

* * *

Police were called to Miller Park where a woman said another man told her he saw a man with a firearm, but he didnt brandish it. She said the man had a .45 caliber pistol. The man was gone before police arrived and the woman just wanted police to know. An officer patrolled the area in an attempt to find the man, but didnt locate anyone. The woman was told to call back if he returned.

* * *

Staff at the Enterprise car rental at 4515 Hixson Pike told police they found a pistol in a returned rental car. An officer responded, collected the pistol, and checked it through NCIC. The owner of the pistol was then contacted. The owner met the officer and the pistol was returned to him.

* * *

A stolen vehicle was recovered on E. 23rd Street. The keys were inside it in the middle console and it was dusted for possible prints. The owner was notified and requested it be towed. It was towed by United Transport #2 and removed from NCIC.

* * *

A black male, wearing a blue pineapple shirt, silver necklace and black pants, walked onto a porch on E. 10th Street and took a bag containing womens clothing from the porch. A Ring camera captured the incident.

* * *

Loss prevention staff at Walmart at 3550 Cummings Hwy. stopped a white male who had passed the point of sale with $201.18 of merchandise. The employee took the merchandise and asked for a receipt. The man said he would get it from his car, however he got into his car and drove away. The vehicle he left in was a Nissan Rogue. Walmart wants to press charges for shoplifting.

* * *

A man on S. Hawthorne Street told police a white pickup truck came through the property he rents and the property next to him. Both properties are owned by his landlord but he was unable to be reached. The man wanted to have the incident documented so he didnt get in trouble with his landlord.

* * *

The manager of Gabes at 5380 Highway 153 called police and said a suspect from a previous shoplifting was in the store. Police arrived and the manager showed a picture of a suspect from a shoplifting at Gabe's from an earlier date. It was clearly a photo of the individual in the store. Officers spoke with the man who said he had never stolen before. His information was forwarded to the officer that handled the original incident.

* * *

Police received a call about a shoplifter at Sally Beauty Supply at 5760 Highway 153. An officer arrived and spoke to an employee, who didnt provide much information about the suspect and didnt want to make a report. Police spoke with the original caller over the phone who said a white female with blonde hair was concealing items in a backpack. The woman went to the counter and paid for one item then exited the store. They didnt want to prosecute or make a report.

* * *

A woman on Forest Villas Circle told police her roommate was yelling and refusing to leave. Police arrived and spoke with the woman outside the home. She said her roommate was her ex-boyfriend and he was upset and yelling and she called someone to come get him. She said he had left before police arrived. She said the man had not harmed her, was just angry and yelling. Police searched the area for the man but were unable to find him.

* * *

Police responded in reference to a suspicious person sleeping on the stairs of St. Paul's Episcopal Church at 305 W. 7th St. The man told police he had been out the night before and drank too much. Police gave the man a ride to his residence on Walnut Street.

* * *

An anonymous caller told police she believed someone was in a recently abandoned residence on Water Street because the front door was open and a rear window was broken out. Officers cleared the residence, which was vacant and dirty. Officers secured the front door, however the rear window was broken out.

* * *

An employee of the Read House at 107 W. Martin Luther King Blvd. told police there had been multiple altercations with a guest and hotel staff. She said the guests vehicle had eventually been towed and he had been asked to check out of his room and leave the hotel. The man returned to his room and didnt attempt to leave or check out. The employee had been informed by the manager to call the police and have him trespassed from the Read House. Upon first attempt to speak with the man, he refused to open the door as he didnt believe officers to be real police officers. Police told him the officers were in fact real police officers, and he then requested the hotel security officer. The security officer was with police outside of the room. The man said through the door that he didnt recognize the security officer and wouldnt come out of his room. The man then called 911 to request for officers to which he was informed officers were outside of his room attempting to speak with him. At that point, the man opened the door. Officers spoke with the man and informed him he was trespassed. He was asked to pack his things and leave the hotel. He complied with packing his belongings and was escorted by officers off of the property. He was informed multiple more times that he was trespassed from the property and to not return. Officers then transported the man to another hotel without incident.
Here is the latest Hamilton County arrest report:

ARELLANO, DIANA

222 COUNTY RD 733 CALHOUN, 37309

Age at Arrest: 28 years old

Arresting Agency: HC Sheriff

DOMESTIC ASSAULT



ARRELLANO-FLORES, RAUL

4446 PALOMINO DRIVE OOLTEWAH, 37363

Age at Arrest: 42 years old

Arresting Agency: HC Sheriff

DOMESTIC ASSAULT



BUCHANAN, STEPHANIE RENEE

37 COUNTRY GREEN RD RINGGOLD, 30736

Age at Arrest: 46 years old

Arresting Agency: East Ridge

FORGERY

SOLICITATION



BUCK, KACIE MARCELLE

5727 N MORGAN LN APT 1 RED BANK, 37415

Age at Arrest: 23 years old

Arresting Agency: HC Sheriff

VIOLATION OF PROBATION (POSSESSION OF METH (SELL,

VIOLATION OF PROBATION (POSSESSION OF A CONTROLLE

VIOLATION OF PROBATION (POSSESSION OF DRUG PARAPHE

FAILURE TO APPEAR



BUTCHEE, KIMBERLY MICHELLE

510 CENTRAL DRIVR BLDG.2 APT.

220 CHATTANOOGA, 37421Age at Arrest: 20 years oldArresting Agency: Chattanooga PDTHEFT OF PROPERTYCAL, DERRICK JAMES1308 CITICO AVE CHATTANOOGA, 374041203Age at Arrest: 30 years oldArresting Agency: Chattanooga PDVIOLATION OF ORDER OF PROTECTION OR RESTRAINING ORTHEFT OF PROPERTYCARVER, DESTINY DAWN128 VENABLE RD APT 1 TEMPLE, 30179Age at Arrest: 27 years oldArresting Agency: Chattanooga PDTHEFT OF PROPERTY-OVER 10,000 (AUTO)CHAMBERS, LOGAN HAMPTON7606 CLIFF POINT LANE OOLTEWAH, 37363Age at Arrest: 31 years oldArresting Agency: CollegedalePUBLIC INTOXICATIONPOSSESSION OF DRUG PARAPHERNALIAPOSSESION OF SCHEDULE II (FENTANYL)CRISP, TREVER DYLAN909 CLAY HILL DRIVE SODDY DAISY, 37379Age at Arrest: 27 years oldArresting Agency: Lookout MountainVIOLATION OF ORDER OF PROTECTION OR RESTRAINING ORFAULKNER, EMILY105 HURDS PATHWAY CALHOUN, 30701Age at Arrest: 21 years oldArresting Agency: Red BankDOMESTIC ASSAULTGILSTRAP, JOSHUA SCOTT1116 GRAYSVILLE RD RINGGOLD, 30736Age at Arrest: 43 years oldArresting Agency: HC SheriffFUGITIVE (CATOOSA COUNTY - GEORGIA)GOLDSMITH, MADISON LOU414 SHADOW PARKWAY CHATTANOOGA, 37421Age at Arrest: 22 years oldArresting Agency: HC SheriffPOSSESSION OF DRUG PARAPHERNALIAPOSSESSION OF METHPOSSESSION OF FENTANYLHARRIS, SHALINDA YVONNE3612 HUGHES AVE CHATTANOOGA, 374101657Age at Arrest: 30 years oldArresting Agency: Chattanooga PDFALSE REPORTSHART, DORISEA CHICQUALA2618 E 20TH ST CHATTANOOGA, 37404Age at Arrest: 36 years oldArresting Agency: HC SheriffTHEFT OF PROPERTYCRIMINAL SIMULATIONHATCHER, DAVID ANDERSON740 HOOKER RD CHATTANOOGA, 37410Age at Arrest: 28 years oldArresting Agency: Chattanooga PDAGGRAVATED ASSAULTHELD, SAMUEL ALEX49 GUIAUR LANE TRACY CITY, 37387Age at Arrest: 30 years oldArresting Agency: Chattanooga PDPOSSESSION OF METH (SELL, DEL. OR MANUFACTURING)THEFT OF PROPERTYHICKMAN, AUTUMN C129 BUCKTHORNE COHUTTA, 30710Age at Arrest: 25 years oldArresting Agency: Red BankSIMPLE ASSAULTHOBRECHT, ZACHARY JAMES4136 BONNY OAKS DR CHATTANOOGA, 37406Age at Arrest: 31 years oldArresting Agency: HC SheriffBooked for Previous Charges or Other Reason(s)KING, DAVID CHADWICK398 MYSTERIO RD LAFAYETTE, 30736Age at Arrest: 22 years oldArresting Agency: East RidgePOSSESSION FOR RESALEOBEDIENCE TO TRAFFIC CONTROL DEVICEDRIVING WHILE LICENSE CANCELLED, SUSPENDED, OR REVPOSSESSION OF DRUG PARAPHERNELIALATTIMORE, QUINCY ORLANDOHOMELESS CHATTANOOGA, 37402Age at Arrest: 44 years oldArresting Agency: Chattanooga PDDISORDERLY CONDUCTLOPEZ, MAYRA7262 HAMILTON CAMP DRIVE CHATTANOOGA, 37421Age at Arrest: 35 years oldArresting Agency: HC SheriffBooked for Previous Charges or Other Reason(s)MACIL, GERARDO AGULAR654 OLD CHATTANOOGA PIKE SW CLEVELAND,Age at Arrest: 25 years oldArresting Agency: East RidgePOSSESSION OF SCHEDULE II (COCAINE)POSSESSION OF SCHEDULE II (METH)MASTERSON, SUSAN ASHLEY406 S PARKDALE AVE CHATTANOOGA, 37411Age at Arrest: 37 years oldArresting Agency: Chattanooga PDRESISTING ARREST OR OBSTRUCTION OF LEGAL PROCESSDISORDERLY CONDUCTPUBLIC INTOXICATIONMATIAS MATIAS, ERIK FRANQUI6614 BALLARD DR CHATTANOOGA, 37421Age at Arrest: 20 years oldArresting Agency: HC SheriffDRIVING ON REVOKED, SUSPENDED OR CANCELLED LICENSETRAFFIC CONTROL SIGNALS VIOLATIONFINANCIAL RESPONSIBILITYSPEEDINGMCELROY, DARLA IRENE2464 4TH AVE UNIT 319 CHATTANOOGA, 37407Age at Arrest: 37 years oldArresting Agency: Chattanooga PDPROSTITUTIONMCFALLS, PAMELA RITA494 LADDS SWITCH ROAD GUILD, 37340Age at Arrest: 56 years oldArresting Agency: Chattanooga PDTHEFT OF PROPERTYMCGILL, TAMMY LYNNHOMELESS CHATTANOOGA, 37405Age at Arrest: 46 years oldArresting Agency: Chattanooga PDCRIMINAL TRESPASSINGMIRANDA, BRAULIO GABRIEL1804 BERCH ST CHATTANOOGA, 37404Age at Arrest: 34 years oldArresting Agency: HC SheriffDRIVING ON REVOKED, SUSPENDED OR CANCELLED LICENSEFAILURE TO MAINTAIN LANEOLIVER, BEONTA NEISHA3840 ROLLINGWOOD DR CHATTANOOGA, 37406Age at Arrest: 42 years oldArresting Agency: HC SheriffDRIVING ON REVOKED, SUSPENDED OR CANCELLED LICENSERICHARDSON, TYLER DYLAN3617 WELDON DR. EAST RIDGE, 37412Age at Arrest: 27 years oldArresting Agency: East RidgeCONTROLLED SUBSTANCE IN SCHEDULE II (FENTANY)FORGERYTHEFT OF PROPERTYTHEFT OF PROPERTY(JEWLERY)RIDLEY, DUSTIN ANDREW6501 SHALLOWFORD RD CHATTANOOGA, 37421Age at Arrest: 32 years oldArresting Agency: Chattanooga PDVIOLATION OF PROTECTION ORDER OR RESTRAINING ORDERVIOLATION OF ORDER OF PROTECTION OR RESTRAINING ORROBEY, BLONDEVA STARRHOMELESS ,Age at Arrest: 70 years oldArresting Agency: HC SheriffCRIMINAL TRESPASSINGSILVELS, TAYLA T2736 FOREST RD CHATTANOOGA, 37406Age at Arrest: 25 years oldArresting Agency: HC SheriffDOMESTIC ASSAULTSWAFFORD, CHRISTOPHER BRIAN3710 4TH AVE CHATTANOOGA, 37407Age at Arrest: 41 years oldArresting Agency: Chattanooga PDDOMESTIC ASSAULTTAYLOR, AUSTIN RYAN6555 ESQUIRE LN HIXSON, 37343Age at Arrest: 29 years oldArresting Agency:DRIVING ON REVOKED, SUSPENDED OR CANCELLED LICENSEFOLLOWING TOO CLOSELYTONEY, TIRREA LEESHAY3401 CAMPBELL ST UNIT B CHATTANOOGA, 37406Age at Arrest: 29 years oldArresting Agency: HC SheriffAGGRAVATED ASSAULTWALKER, CLARENCE WILLIAM320 BROOKSIDE DRIVE MCDONOUGH, 30253Age at Arrest: 49 years oldArresting Agency: Chattanooga PDTHEFT OF PROPERTYWATTS, TIMOTHY DEWAYNE4815 HIXSON PIKE NUM 1 HIXSON, 37343Age at Arrest: 46 years oldArresting Agency: Soddy DaisyPOSSESSION OF METHDRIVING ON REVOKED, SUSPENDED OR CANCELLED LICENSEFALSIFICATION OF THE RESULTS OF A DRUG TEST (URINELIGHT LAW VIOLATIONPOSSESSION OF DRUG PARAPHERNALIAWHALEY, ALYSSA LEIGH ANN9172 TOWER PINES CV OOLTEWAH, 373639348Age at Arrest: 31 years oldArresting Agency: East RidgeFORGERYCONTROLLED SUBSTANCE IN SCHEDULE II (FENTANYL)CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES SCHEDULE IV (XANAX)POSSESSION OF DRUG PARAPHERNALIATHEFT OF PROPERTY

Here are the mug shots:

BUCK, KACIE MARCELLE

Age at Arrest: 23

Date of Birth: 05/18/2000

Arresting Agency: HC Sheriff



Last Date of Arrest: 08/28/2023

Charge(s):

VIOLATION OF PROBATION (POSSESSION OF METH (SELL,

VIOLATION OF PROBATION (POSSESSION OF A CONTROLLE

VIOLATION OF PROBATION (POSSESSION OF DRUG PARAPHE

FAILURE TO APPEAR BUTCHEE, KIMBERLY MICHELLE

Age at Arrest: 20

Date of Birth: 12/17/2002

Arresting Agency: Chattanooga PD



Last Date of Arrest: 08/28/2023

Charge(s):

THEFT OF PROPERTY CHAMBERS, LOGAN HAMPTON

Age at Arrest: 31

Date of Birth: 12/21/1991

Arresting Agency: Collegedale



Last Date of Arrest: 08/28/2023

Charge(s):

PUBLIC INTOXICATION

POSSESSION OF DRUG PARAPHERNALIA

POSSESION OF SCHEDULE II (FENTANYL) FAULKNER, EMILY

Age at Arrest: 21

Date of Birth: 10/31/2001

Arresting Agency: Red Bank



Last Date of Arrest: 08/28/2023

Charge(s):

DOMESTIC ASSAULT GILSTRAP, JOSHUA SCOTT

Age at Arrest: 43

Date of Birth: 01/07/1980

Arresting Agency: HC Sheriff



Last Date of Arrest: 08/28/2023

Charge(s):

FUGITIVE (CATOOSA COUNTY - GEORGIA) GOLDSMITH, MADISON LOU

Age at Arrest: 22

Date of Birth: 10/21/2000

Arresting Agency: HC Sheriff



Last Date of Arrest: 08/28/2023

Charge(s):

VIOLATION OF PROBATION (POSSESSION OF DRUG PARA) HARRIS, SHALINDA YVONNE

Age at Arrest: 30

Date of Birth: 03/05/1993

Arresting Agency: Chattanooga PD



Last Date of Arrest: 08/28/2023

Charge(s):

FALSE REPORTS HART, DORISEA CHICQUALA

Age at Arrest: 36

Date of Birth: 08/17/1987

Arresting Agency: HC Sheriff



Last Date of Arrest: 08/28/2023

Charge(s):

THEFT OF PROPERTY

CRIMINAL SIMULATION HICKMAN, AUTUMN C

Age at Arrest: 25

Date of Birth: 03/30/1998

Arresting Agency: Red Bank



Last Date of Arrest: 08/28/2023

Charge(s):

SIMPLE ASSAULT HOWARD, DEMETRIUS MONTEZ

Age at Arrest: 41

Date of Birth: 01/26/1982

Arresting Agency:



Last Date of Arrest: 08/28/2023

Charge(s):

FUGITIVE (ARREST FOR CRIME IN ANOTHER STATE)

LOPEZ, MAYRA

Age at Arrest: 35

Date of Birth: 03/03/1988

Arresting Agency: HC Sheriff



Last Date of Arrest: 08/28/2023

Booked for Previous Charges or Other Reason(s)

MASTERSON, SUSAN ASHLEY

Age at Arrest: 37

Date of Birth: 06/20/1986

Arresting Agency: Chattanooga PD



Last Date of Arrest: 08/28/2023

Charge(s):

RESISTING ARREST OR OBSTRUCTION OF LEGAL PROCESS

DISORDERLY CONDUCT

PUBLIC INTOXICATION MATIAS MATIAS, ERIK FRANQUI

Age at Arrest: 20

Date of Birth: 10/04/2002

Arresting Agency: HC Sheriff



Last Date of Arrest: 08/28/2023

Charge(s):

DRIVING ON REVOKED, SUSPENDED OR CANCELLED LICENSE

TRAFFIC CONTROL SIGNALS VIOLATION

FINANCIAL RESPONSIBILITY

SPEEDING MCELROY, DARLA IRENE

Age at Arrest: 37

Date of Birth: 05/07/1986

Arresting Agency: Chattanooga PD



Last Date of Arrest: 08/28/2023

Charge(s):

PROSTITUTION MCFALLS, PAMELA RITA

Age at Arrest: 56

Date of Birth: 02/01/1967

Arresting Agency: Chattanooga PD



Last Date of Arrest: 08/28/2023

Charge(s):

THEFT OF PROPERTY MCGILL, TAMMY LYNN

Age at Arrest: 46

Date of Birth: 10/24/1976

Arresting Agency: Chattanooga PD



Last Date of Arrest: 08/28/2023

Charge(s):

CRIMINAL TRESPASSING MIRANDA, BRAULIO GABRIEL

Age at Arrest: 34

Date of Birth: 07/31/1989

Arresting Agency: HC Sheriff



Last Date of Arrest: 08/28/2023

Charge(s):

DRIVING ON REVOKED, SUSPENDED OR CANCELLED LICENSE

FAILURE TO MAINTAIN LANE OLIVER, BEONTA NEISHA

Age at Arrest: 42

Date of Birth: 09/16/1980

Arresting Agency: HC Sheriff



Last Date of Arrest: 08/28/2023

Charge(s):

DRIVING ON REVOKED, SUSPENDED OR CANCELLED LICENSE RICHARDSON, TYLER DYLAN

Age at Arrest: 27

Date of Birth: 12/04/1995

Arresting Agency: East Ridge



Last Date of Arrest: 08/28/2023

Charge(s):

CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE IN SCHEDULE II (FENTANY)

FORGERY

THEFT OF PROPERTY

THEFT OF PROPERTY(JEWLERY) RIDLEY, DUSTIN ANDREW

Age at Arrest: 32

Date of Birth: 05/19/1991

Arresting Agency: Chattanooga PD



Last Date of Arrest: 08/28/2023

Charge(s):

VIOLATION OF PROTECTION ORDER OR RESTRAINING ORDER

VIOLATION OF ORDER OF PROTECTION OR RESTRAINING OR
Although Choo Choo City has one of the lowest crime problems in the nation (and world) it appears that there may be two areas of larceny that is adversely affecting our high standing. Those two categories are  pet thefts and unlawful theft of bicycles.

The subject of beloved canine, kitten, pet alligators, boa constrictors, etc. will have to wait for another day.

The felony seizures of the pedal power mode of transportation is somewhat surprising because most thieves that would steal a kids bike are too lazy to exert that much energy unless trying to avoid apprehension by one of the citys (and countys) finest (police officers).

In contemplating an article about this dastardly crime it became apparent that it would be necessary to turn to the leading guru of knowledgethe late Lewis Grizzard (L.G.) (1947-1994).

The introduction to the last collection of articles by the pride of Moreland, Georgia by his friend and business manager Steve Enoch is It Wasnt Always Easy, But I Sure Had Fun (1994- Villard Books) contains an exchange of conversations by two preachers on the topic of bicycle theft.

(In order to avoid revocation of the writers baptismal record the names of the religious denominations have been deleted in the article except to state that they were the only two churches in Moreland during L.G.s upbringing:

Then there were the two preachers.

There was this small town with Preacher No. 1 and Preacher No. 2. Both congregations had young preachers and they both rode bicycles to the services every Sunday morning, and every Sunday morning they would meet and exchange notes.

One morning, Preacher No. 1 walked up on foot. Preacher No. 2 said, Brother, where is your bicycle?

Preacher No. 1 said, Brother, I believe somebody in my congregation has stolen my bicycle.

Preacher No. 2 was appalled. He said, Ill tell you how to get your bicycle back. You preach on the Ten Commandments this morning and when you get to Thou Shall Not Steal you bear down on it. You make em feel that fire, smell that brimstone! Whoever stole your bicycle will start feeling bad and bring it back to you.

Preacher No. 1 said hed try it. The next Sunday morning, sure enough, he was on his bicycle again.

Hallelujah! shouted Preacher No. 2. I see you preached on the Ten Commandments and got your bicycle back. Ill bet you had the thief really squirming when you bore down on Thou Shall Not Steal.

Well, thats not exactly what happened, said Preacher No. 1.

What do you mean? asked Preacher No. 2.

Well, I did preach on the Ten Commandments, his colleague said, but when I got to Thou Shalt Not Commit Adultery, I remembered where I left my bicycle.

(Any unbelieveror believerthat cannot interpret the words of wisdom of the late humorist are on their own as the preacher in the Blazing Saddles movie directed by Mel Brooks stated in the 1974 racist cowboy satire take on Western films that featured Gene Wilder, Cleavon Little, Madeline Kahn, Harvey Korman, and Alex Karras.)

* * *

You can reach Jerry Summers at jsummers@summersfirm.com
Red Bank officials responded Tuesday to remarks by Hamilton County Mayor Weston Wamp that the city was "an unmitigated disaster."

Red Bank Mayor Hollie Berry said she is "disappointed that Mayor Wamp would resort to this kind of divisive national partisan rhetoric.

In my opinion, that kind of us vs. them mentality has no place among neighbors who all ultimately want the same things. Don't we all want a safe place for our children to grow up, reliable infrastructure, and a thriving economy?



City Manager Martin Granum said Red Bank "is enjoying a revitalization that is welcomed by residents and businesses and the community overall; Red Bank is thriving. I feel that the County Mayors unexpected criticism of a thriving portion of Hamilton County is unfortunate.



We invite Mayor Wamp to join Red Bank for a commission meeting so he can learn first-hand about the positive work taking place every day to realize the mission of the city of Red Bank to be a safe and thriving small-town community, and how we strive to realize our vision of a vibrant and inclusive community by pursuing excellence, enhancing safety, and preserving our neighborhood character.

He can also learn more about our progress on the citys Facebook page and monthly newsletter as both consistently feature numerous new businesses locating in Red Bank, touts multiple successful family-friendly community events, and illustrates countless positive examples as to why so many people are choosing to live and work in Red Bank.



City Manager Granum said that Red Banks most recent budget "addressed needs across all aspects of city services, including adding two police officers, adding an additional firefighter 24/7/365, funding the citys first-ever comprehensive plan and parks needs assessment, both of which are critical to determining what is best for the 12-acre parcel on Dayton Boulevard known as the former Red Bank Middle School site.

"These planning efforts are intentionally conceived to be Red Banks matching portion of Mayor Wamps county-wide Area Plan effort he is right to champion. The Red Bank Commission appropriately funded the citys departments and staff with the resources necessary to achieve the citys goals and meet the expectations of the residents and businesses served."

Regarding the recent 57-cent property tax increase, City Manager Granum said Red Bank homeowners "are still paying a lower property tax rate than 75 percent of city-dwellers in Hamilton County, yet receive excellent services that are comparable to other cities in Hamilton County.

The county mayors harsh words do nothing to create community-wide consensus on important matters that impact everyone, including Hamilton County. It is our hope that everyone in leadership will support each other as we strive to make Red Bank and all of Hamilton County a great place to live.



For my part, said Mayor Berry, I hope that, despite incendiary statements like those recently made by the county mayor, the city of Red Bank and Hamilton County can continue collaborating productively towards our many shared goals as we have been for years."



County Mayor Wamp on Monday spoke candidly about keeping and losing political power to his fellow Republicans at the Pachyderm Club.

Without naming him directly, County Mayor Wamp said County Commissioner David Sharpe is a "single obstructionist with an agenda" who is poised to take over the County Commission with "fringe" conservative ideas that he said will block the Republican Party program.





"If you don't think it matters, look at Red Bank, Tennessee," he said. "They took over Red Bank and have run it completely into a ditch."





"We lost control in Red Bank," he said, quoting state Senator Bo Watson. "Red Bank is an unmitigated disaster."





County Mayor Wamp said Commissioner Sharpe's "fringe ideas" have spread into public education and civil service jobs, such as popularizing the unionization of public employees.





He said Red Bank residents are "some of the best people in our community" and that this offbeat "progressive" and "woke" ideology also is "out of line" with what Black and Latino voters want.
Tennessee Attorney General Jonathan Skrmetti has reached a settlement with Auburn Hills Mobile Home Park, its management, owners and operators, and related entities to resolve the states suit alleging that the Ooltewah park took advantage of vulnerable residents in violation of state and federal law. He called the owners "unscrupulous."

Officials said, "Following the deadly tornado of April 2020, the Attorney Generals Office became aware of allegations that park managers were hoarding charitable donations intended for residents who had lost their homes and belongings. Further investigation produced evidence that the park failed to address severe septic issues that caused raw sewage to pool on the ground and back up into homes, charged residents illegal late fees, and refused to provide appropriate property titles, lease agreements, and other documents.

"This weeks settlement requires the defendants to develop a sewer system that will remedy the septic issues and secures $750,000 to go toward consumer restitution, civil penalties, and litigation costs. The settlement also provides for additional penalties for any future violations."

Im proud of our Consumer Protection Division for fighting hard to obtain justice in this case, said General Skrmetti. The families of Auburn Hills Mobile Home Park deserve to be treated with fairness, honesty, and dignity, and this settlement will help ensure that they are.

Affected consumers will be contacted soon regarding restitution payments.

The settlement may be read here.
Local communities in Tennessee and around the world are coming together on Thursday to remember those who have died or suffered permanent injury due to drug overdose. Observed on Aug. 31 every year, International Overdose Awareness Day seeks to "create better understanding of overdose, reduce the stigma of drug-related deaths and create change that reduces the harms associated with drug use."



The Hamilton County Coalition is hosting events at four locations from 9 a.m.-noon on IOAD. Events will include guest speakers, recognition of loved ones, giveaways, educational resources, support groups and a reading of the proclamation signed by City Mayor Tim Kelly at each of the following locations:



 Hamilton Family YMCA, 7430 Shallowford Road in Chattanooga;

 North River Family YMCA, 4138 Hixson Pike in Chattanooga;

 Downtown Family YMCA, 301 W. 6th St. in Chattanooga; and

 Cleveland Family YMCA, 220 Urbane Road NE in Cleveland.



The Hamilton County Coalition is also partnering with the Zack Meservey Foundation and the City of Chattanooga for Light Up the Sky. This event will include candle lighting in memory of loved ones, fellowship, prayer and community support on Thursday from 8-9 p.m. at Heritage Park, 1428 Jenkins Road in Chattanooga.

Officials said, "Global overdose rates have skyrocketed in the last decade. In 2020, an estimated 284 million people worldwide had used a drug in the past 12 months, a 26 per cent increase from 2010. The situation is especially severe in Tennessee. In 2021, data from the Tennessee Department of Health showed that there were 3,814 drug overdose deaths, an increase of 26 per cent from 2020."



By coming together to remember them, we stand together to say that more needs to be done to end overdose in our community, said Regional Overdose Prevention Specialist Debra Clark Morgan. We encourage members of the community with lived experience to come to our event and to stand in solidarity with those who have been personally affected by overdose.



International Overdose Awareness Day is convened by Penington Institute, an Australian nonprofit. The campaign theme this year is Recognizing those who go unseen. They honor the people whose lives have been altered by overdose, such as family and friends grieving the loss of a loved one, workers in healthcare and support services or spontaneous first responders who have assumed the role of a lifesaver.



A full list of the IOAD 2023 events currently planned around the world can be found at overdoseday.com/events-2023/.
Constance "Connie" Garner Webster, 90, of Chattanooga, Tennessee, passed away on Sunday, August 27, 2023 in the loving care of family and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, James and Arbie Garner of Sherwood, Tn..; five brothers and five sisters, and her late husband Kenneth E. Webster.

Connie was born in Sewanee, Tn. on Nov. 3, 1932, into a large family and had numerous nieces and nephews. She spent her early years in Sherwood, TN until the family relocated to Chattanooga where she attended and graduated from Chattanooga High School. After graduation, she enrolled in Tennessee Wesleyan College where she earned a degree in secretarial science, and soon became employed by Combustion Engineering where she met her late husband.

While at Combustion Engineering, Connie had an outstanding career. She was honored in 1974 as Chattanooga Secretary of the Year. In 1978, she was promoted as executive assistant to the vice president of Combustion.

Connie was a bright, energetic person whose life revolved around her family and friends, her church, and travel. She enjoyed the many family reunions and events with friends, nieces and nephews from Memphis and Florida who called her "Ree". Connie never missed a family or friend life celebration regardless of the distance.

She was also a member of the Brainerd United Methodist Church where the music ministry was a vital part of Connie's life. She sang in the church choir for many years, and she particularly liked gospel music.

A Celebration of Connies Life will be held on Friday, Sept. 1, at 1 p.m. in the East Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home. The family will receive friends prior to the service beginning at 12 p.m. She will be laid to rest with her husband in the Chattanooga National Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the music ministry of Brainerd United Methodist church.

The family would like to extend special thanks to Shirley Prince and Ken Garner, Jr. who gave so much of their time and loving care to Connie during her illness.

Arrangements are under the care of Chattanooga Funeral Home Crematory and Florist East Chapel, 404 South Moore Road, East Ridge, Tn. 37412.

Please share your thoughts and memories at www.ChattanoogaEastChapel.com.
Ben Affleck and Matt Damon have not only written and starred in movies together, but they have also been friends for decades. Here's a quick look at the duo's longtime relationship.

Matt Damon and Ben Affleck might be two of Hollywoods biggest actors, but theyve also been close friends for years. The two A-listers have known each other since they were young kids, both growing up in the same Massachusetts town and having a similar interest in acting. These days, the two remain close  heres a complete look at the duos longtime friendship.

Matt Damon and Ben Affleck in 1997 | Mitchell Gerber/Corbis/VCG/Getty Images

Matt Damon and Ben Affleck have been friends for years

Damon and Affleck are two years apart, with Damon being the older of the two. The friends grew up in Cambridge, Massachusetts, and Damon once recalled the moment he knew Affleck was going to be a longtime friend. Little five-foot-two Ben Affleck tackled this dude off of me, like out of nowhere, Damon said of once getting into a fight and Affleck coming to his defense. He said the incident took place in the mid-1980s. This is a good friend to have, Damon said of Affleck.

It was also in the mid-80s that Affleck and Damon realized they wanted to take acting seriously; they auditioned together in New York City, and they both became someone the other one could lean on. It wasnt until 1989 when the two young men landed their first role together in the movie Field of Dreams. Despite that the two were only extras in the film, it was an exciting milestone for their friendship. Finally, in 1992, they made a real appearance on the big screen, starring in School Ties.

Ben Affleck and Matt Damons Good Will Hunting was a landmark in their friendship

Perhaps the duos most famous friendship moment was when they co-wrote the 1997 hit film Good Will Hunting. The movie is widely regarded as one of the best films from the 1990s and is still popular today. The film was nominated for multiple awards, and it won the 1998 Oscar for Best Writing, Screenplay Written Directly for the Screen.

Affleck and Damons friendship reaches far beyond the 1990s; they have continued writing together through the years. But theyve also intertwined their personal lives so well, and when Affleck and ex-wife Jennifer Garner went through their divorce in 2015, Damon was a shoulder for Affleck to lean on. In the same way Jen is turning to her friends, for a long time, Ben has reached out to Matt, who is a true touch point for him, a source told People. Damon also showed support on several occasions for Afflecks relationship with Jennifer Lopez.

The men have given credit to one another for major things; Affleck previously said in 2022 that Damon is the reason Affleck has remained picky about the movies he works on, only choosing ones he truly feels something for. Affleck also previously said that Damons friendship has helped his mental health.

While the two men have their own careers and personal lives, theyve managed to keep them intertwined for decades and remain close in the process. Despite both having demanding careers, theyve embraced their friendship rather than let it fizzle out.
Before Captain Phil Harris of 'Deadliest Catch' fame died following a stroke, he had a near-death experience at sea. Here's what he said.

Discovery Channels Deadliest Catch Season 19 shows lifes difficulties on the Bering Sea. Fans adored Captain Phil Harris from the F/V Cornelia Marie. Unfortunately, he died in 2010 following a stroke. And well before his stroke, he spoke about a separate near-death experience involving an aneurysm. Heres what he said.

Deadliest Catch star Phil Harris almost died from an aneurysm years before his stroke

Deadliest Catch captains Phil Harris and Keith Colburn are two of the most well-known stars from the show. They spoke to WGN-TV about life as crab fishermen, which includes danger, distress, and friendly competition.

You push yourself, Harris shared with the interviewer in 2008. Days turn into weeks. You push yourself to the most extreme that you can, that your body will take.

The interviewer asked Harris and Colburn about the money involved in crab fishing. While the men admitted that they make a good amount, they also said its the furthest thing from their mind when theyre at sea. You know, we dont really think about the money, Harris said. Thats secondary. Its catching crab; its competitive. Its not a money thing. The money thing is something you think about after the fact.

So, whats at the forefront of a crab fishermans mind? They consider the dangers at sea. Thats always on your mind, Harris said. We dont dwell on it, but the fact is that you can die really, really easily out there. I had an experience this year. I had a pulmonary aneurysm on the boat and damn near died on the boat, and there was nothing we could do to get help. It was blowing too hard for the Coast Guard. We didnt know it was an aneurysm at the time.

Colburn noted that while the Coast Guard helps with emergencies, its all weather dependent. When the weather gets too bad, even theyre grounded, he stated. So, they cant do anything, and thats what happened with Phil this year.

Phil Harris died following complications from a stroke

Deadliest Catch star Phil Harris lived through his pulmonary aneurysm at sea. But he later died following complications from a stroke. Harris had a stroke in January 2010 while offloading crab at St. Paul Island, Alaska. At the time, he was flown to Anchorage, Alaska, for emergency surgery and entered an induced coma to reduce his brains blood pressure and swelling. Harris awoke from his coma and seemed to improve, but he died a month later from complications.

Dan Mittman, Harriss best friend of over 35 years, spoke to People about Harriss last days. Harris was receiving physical therapy when he told Mittman he felt unwell. He said, Danny, I dont feel as good as I did yesterday, Mittman said. They rolled about five doctors through there, and they said, You can stay here, but I understood, though. Harris died later that day.

Deadliest Catch Season 19 airs Tuesdays at 8 p.m. ET on Discovery Channel.

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A woman declared brain-dead after being hit by a car of the suspect of a stabbing rampage just south of Seoul earlier this month died Monday, police said.







The woman in her 20s was pronounced dead at a hospital in Suwon, 30 kilometers south of Seoul, at 9:52 p.m., according to officials at Gyeonggi Nambu Provincial Police investigating the incident at a department store in the Bundang district in Seongnam.







On Aug. 3, the culprit, Choi Won-jong, 22, rammed a vehicle into pedestrians outside the store and then attacked shoppers with a knife inside the establishment, which is connected to nearby Seohyeon Station, and draws many commuters and shoppers.







The attack has now left two dead and 12 wounded. Another female victim in her 60s died three days after the attack.







Choi was formally arrested on Aug. 5. (Yonhap)


King Charles and Prince Harry are reportedly considering meeting to discuss their relationship sometime in September -- but a source now says that Harry won't commit to meeting with his father unless Meghan Markle attends the discussion as well.

Prince Harry and the rest of his family have not been on great terms in several years. Harry and his wife, Meghan Markle, started having issues with the family around the time of their 2018 wedding. Since then, Harry and Meghan have left the royal family and started a new life with their two children in California, but Harry has said before that he hopes to someday reconcile with his father and brother.

Harry and Charles have been rumored to have scheduled peace talks for sometime in September, but now, the newest rumor churning is that Harry refuses to meet with his father unless Meghan can be present as well.

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle with the rest of the working royals in 2018 | Chris Jackson/Getty Images)

Prince Harry and King Charles have to include Meghan in their peace talks, insider says

Harry and Meghan are headed to Europe in September for the Invictus Games, which are being held in Germany this year. Plus, Charles is scheduled to return home from Balmoral, which means both men have an opportunity to sit down and discuss their relationship without a royal event hanging over their heads (Harry has typically only returned to the UK for royal events in the last few years). However, one expert now says that Meghan, who was originally not going to take part in the discussions, now must be included, or Harry says he wont meet with his dad.

A source reportedly spoke to OK! Magazine UK, and it looks like Meghan and Harry must both be present for peace talks to happen. Harry is more than happy to meet with his father to thrash things out, but Meghan will be accompanying him on his trip to Europe and he doesnt want to leave her out, the source said, per Express.

Royal author Duncan Larcombe also spoke to the magazine, saying that Harry and Meghan have been very quiet in recent months. Theyve kept their heads down for a number of months and I think possibly now would be a good time for Harry to meet his father and for them to have a grown-up conversation, where some of tensions and the rawness of Spare and everything else has perhaps died down.

There is no proof that the rumors of peace talks are true

There has been plenty of speculation that Harry plans to have a sit-down discussion with his father while in Europe for the Invictus Games, but nothing has been proven. The sources who have leaked the information have most often remained anonymous, making the information nearly impossible to verify. Showbiz Cheat Sheet cant know for certain that peace talks will happen or that Meghan will be involved in the discussions.

Still, the timing does seem just right for Harry and Charles to re-open their doors to one another. Charles will be refreshed from his stay at Balmoral, and Harry will be coming off the high of yet another successful Invictus Games. The two men could certainly be in good enough spirits to want to work things out, but time will tell if or when that happens.
The events of the Cherokee National Holiday, such as the annual parade, allow attendees to enjoy the outdoors, but hydration is important in the late summer weather.
The plight of young American men has become a serious concern of late. Theyre earning fewer college degrees compared to women, falling out of the labor market, and dying from overdose or suicide more often than women. Many are addicted to porn, video games, or online outrage.

Theyre trying on new identities, many of them ugly, all gesturing toward a desire to belong, writes Christine Emba in an incisive essay for The Washington Post. It felt like a widespread identity crisisas if they didnt know how to be.

Whats the cause of all this trouble? Some argue for a purely materialist explanation by looking at the decline of manufacturing jobs that used to provide a steady income for men without college degrees. Others suggest that men are merely entitled bratsso accustomed to patriarchy that now equality feels like oppression. Still others, like Richard Reeves in The Atlantic, point to problems with our education systems.

The sheer scope of the problem has led to manosphere influencers who offer a vision of masculinity and the steps to achieve it.

Aaron Renn has been a persistent critic of the churchs overfeminization, accusing both liberal and conservative Christians of vicious negativity towards men and excessive pedestalization of women that repels men. The popular psychologist Jordan Peterson has shaped these conversations for years. On the far right, Andrew Tate, the former champion kickboxer indicted on charges of sex trafficking, has a massive social media presence built from vulgar hedonism and brazen materialism.

If their collective followings are any indication, its clear that many young men are attracted to a vision of masculinity that draws more from Nietzsche than Jesus Christ. American Reformer contributor John Ehrett calls it vitalism.

Some commentators are warning that the post-Christian Right will seduce aimless young men grasping for a sense of self. They urge the church to embrace a masculine Christianity that emphasizes dominion, male leadership in the home and the church, and physical fitness to keep men from being drawn into the vile world that sees women as sex objects and pushes Nazi propaganda about superior races.

I wont argue against positive role models and physical health. But heres where these critics go wrong: Christianity can never compete with vitalism on vitalisms terms, just like a church service will always be less exciting than a rock concert on a rock concerts terms.

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If a young man wants an ideology that allows him to treat women with contempt and consider himself Nietzsches Ubermensch, social media gurus will always win out over Scripture. You can have a mens conference with fireworks and a working military tank, but the Bible will still show us that the greatest man who ever lived submitted himself to a humiliating death and told us the meek are truly blessed.

The masculinity crisis has major consequences for the church. It feels harder than ever for young Christian women who want to get married and have children to find young men who make decent husbands and fathers. More broadly, congregations are suffering as young men that could be blessing the church are instead wasting their lives away in front of screens.

How should Christians respond?

The church has always struggled with gender imbalance, as Lyman Stone notes. As far back as the Roman era, more women than men have flocked to sanctuaries, and finding marriageable Christian men has never been easy.

Furthermore, every church is different. On the extremes, some still operate according to a more rigid gender hierarchy while others ignore the idea of God-given gender differences.

As a missionary in East Africa, I can tell you that a culture where gender differences are still respected doesnt draw more men to church. Women still outnumber men here too. And the cultural commitment to traditional sexual ethics brings lots of problems, including much higher rates of violence against women.

The simplest fix might be to erase any gender distinctives and encourage each young man to simply be a good person rather than a good man. Theres some truth to this, as church is the place where men call themselves a bride and women can say theyre more than conquerors. The fruit of the Spirit are the same for both sexes.

However, as Emba puts it in a follow-up essay, young men and boys are telling us, often literally, that they desperately need and desire direction, norms, and a concrete rubric for how to be a man.

In theological terms, we are created in the image of God, male and female, and that distinction has consequences for how we think about ourselves. When one set of cultural currents is trying to erase those distinctions altogether by telling men their manhood isnt real or meaningful, many of them will simply be discouraged from even trying to be good people.

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In The Toxic War on Masculinity, Nancy Pearcey calls for a greater ministry focus on boys without fathers, and shes absolutely right. Rather than compete with manosphere influencers who think expensive cars and sexual conquests define masculinity, we need Christian families to invite young men into their lives and homes. There, they can learn about the virtues of masculinity by observation rather than didactic (and often harmful) instruction.

Single people, elderly couples, and families with children can all participate. Helping care for others kids, sharing life together, and talking about something other than social media will do far more for young men than any blogs or podcasts. (Pro tip for young men who want to find a Christian wife: Do the dishes after dinner. Trust me on this one.)

The crisis of masculinity is real, and the church has a role to play. Rather than complaining about feminism or beta male pastors, we need to participate in mentoring and building relationships with young men. Military hardware and empty admonitions to be a man cant substitute for genuine connections between people. The church has a calling to celebrate the goodness and beauty of Gods choice to create us in his image, male and female, and those distinct identities emerge best in community.

As we attend to the masculinity crisis, opening our doors and making space at our tables is something we can all do to keep lost boys from going astray.

Matthew Loftus lives with his family in Kenya, where he teaches and practices family medicine. You can learn more about his work and writing at matthewandmaggie.org.

[ This article is also available in Francais. ]
One of my most recent posts on Instagram is a picture of a loaf of bread I baked. I baked it because I like bread, especially fresh bread, hot out of a 450-degree oven and covered in far too much butter. But why, exactly, did I post the picture on Instagram?

Its a nice-enough loaf, but Ive no great baking talent. Part of my motive was simple enthusiasm for work I enjoyed. But some of it, if Im honest, was about my imageas a writer, as a keeper of my household newly back to full-time work after maternity leave, and as the sort of person you might find interesting at a cocktail party.

There, look, I remember briefly thinking as I hit Share, no one can say Im slacking on the homemaking front. I made bread!

This is ridiculous and vain and embarrassing, of course. But I come by it honestly in an era of self-creation, in which social media has given each of us the opportunity to craft a public image that is objectively artificial yet imagined as a display of authenticity.

That very dynamic is the subject of Tara Isabella Burtons Self-Made: Creating Our Identities from Da Vinci to the Kardashians, published earlier this year. I reached out to Burton to ask about the theological underpinnings of her book and how the modern urge to self-create comports with Christian faith.

This interview has been edited and condensed.

Lets start with the trio of elevator questions Im sure youve answered on a thousand podcasts by now: What is the book about? Why did you write it? And what readers did you have in mind?

Self-Made is an intellectual history of self-creation, the wider story of secular modernitys idea that human beings not only can but should create themselves. By that, I mean not just that they shape their own destinies or change their social circumstances but that the cultivation of ones own personality in accordance with ones desires is basically the way that we are human.

And I see this as a religious storya story that moves from the idea that we are created by God for a purpose beyond our immediate understanding toward one where we create ourselves and our own purpose. So, this is a theological story.

I wanted to write it for a variety of reasons. As a teenager, the idea of living life as art appealed to me, but its something Ive increasingly come to critique. Then I did my doctoral thesis at Oxford on the theology of self-creation, looking at 19th-century French dandyism and decadence against the backdrop of secular modernity.

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But in my professional life, I wrote much more about the modern internet. When I was a religion reporter for Vox, I wrote a lot about the spiritual but not religious and the idea that everyones making their own religionwhich was the topic of my first nonfiction book, Strange Rites. [You can read CTs review of Strange Rites here.]

So when I was looking for a follow-up project to Strange Rites, I started thinking that the obsession with personal branding that we have todaythe way were all expected to tell our own stories and sell ourselves in the attention economy to a greater or lesser degreethat all of this idea of self-creation is actually part of the same story, part of the same idea that we exist to cultivate and perfect ourselves and live our best lives.

And the ideal reader I had in mind is someone asking, Why is everything so weird now?

I think all my work, to a greater or lesser extent, deals with that question. I wanted to appeal to readers, secular or religious, who have a sense that something is upsomething is strangebut dont necessarily have access to either the historical narrative or language to describe whats going on.

Youll have a long and productive career answering that question. In this book, though, I found it interesting that manymaybe mostof the people you profile wouldve been professing Christians, and that includes contemporary figures like Kim Kardashian and Donald Trump.Im not asking you to render judgment on anyones soul, but I am curious about how you think these self-makers thought about their self-creation in relationship toor maybe in tension withtheir faith.

Without speculating on anybodys particular soul, I think historically speaking, the self-made ideology has not necessarily been antireligious, but it has been anticlericalbecause so much of this narrative, particularly in the Renaissance and then the Enlightenment, is understood to be contra the Catholic Church in particular.

This is reductionist both in terms of the figures Im writing about and in the actual Catholic position, but the understanding of the theology is something like, God created everything, including human beings, in their particular place. What we are sociallyour relations to one anotherare part of that creation.

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Part of Renaissance thought, and Enlightenment thought even more so, was a rejection of this external authority telling us what to do, how to be, how to live our lives. The self-creator is someone who rejects the authority of these external figures and instead follows his own desires in order to be truly free. Freedom is understood as freedom from society, and the Catholic Church takes on, in this narrative, the role of the big bad tyrant.

A central tenet from these figures, from the Enlightenment onward, is the idea that the self-creator is a kind of god or demigod, a divine or divinely powered figure. And as that narrative moves closer and closer to the present, the self-maker becomes someone who makes himself a kind of god.

I think the most explicit example of this is a line from Stewart Brand, an early techno-utopian pioneer, big in the 60s counterculture, whose ethos, he says, is, We are as gods, and we might as well get good at it. Technological power allows a kind of divinization of the self. I think we need to take that seriously, theologically.

When I write about the importance of going to church, having that life together in an embodied community, I often get pushback that amounts to You cant tell me to do that. My faith is just as good if I do it on my own. This rejection of authority youre describing feels a lot like that.

Absolutely. Its something that I find really interesting in both Christian culture and, particularly strongly, in the secular culture of New York, where I live: this idea that doing something thats not in accordance with how we feel, with our desires, is automatically alienating and wrong.

I think theres probably some small measure of truth to this: If we have a fundamental desire for the good and the true and the beautiful, and if these are elements of our ability to apprehend God, then a certain kind of internal reflection can be part of how we might apprehend truth.

But at the same time, human beings are very bad at (a) knowing what we want and (b) wanting things that are good for us. We are self-deceiving creatures.

And this is so much a part of literature that I find it very bizarre that theres not a pervasive cultural sense of self-deception. Instead, its like, Well, if you feel this, your feelings are valid, and you should listen to them.

Let me return to the question of Christians self-making from a slightly different angle. Is this a mindset that could only develop in a Christian society, as an outgrowth or perversion of Christian ideas about individual human value and personal sanctification in Christ? Because its intriguing that this is a Christendom phenomenon, that it didnt simultaneously develop in other societies that didnt have that same Christian cultural foundation.

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I think thats right. In Christian thought, we find the theology of the Incarnation, the literal resurrection of the body, the dignity of each human beingwhich is not reducible to our circumstances, the biographical details of where and how we were born, our nationality or ethnicity or gender.

Theologically, I would say self-making is related to these Christian ideas about being made in the image of God. Better historians than I have made the case that what we think of as liberalism is deeply rooted in Christian views of the dignity of the person.

But at some point, in and after the Renaissance, I think your language of perversion of good is really useful here. Because at some point, the idea that God became man, that man might become godas the Eastern Orthodox Christian tradition puts itturns into We should just be gods. Like, Get rid of that other stuff. We should just be gods.

Skip to the good stuff.

Yeah, exactly. Get there faster. The idea that theres some tension between our givenness, our createdness, and our creative powerand that this tension speaks to a truth about humanity that is revealed in its fullness in the Incarnationbecomes this cultural narrative of human transcendence in which we go after what we want and chase money or chase appearing a certain way.

Im interested in how you personally think about self-making in two senses. First, as a Christian, because we have so many biblical passages about putting to death the old self (Rom. 6:57; Eph. 4:22) and things like those famous lines from the Heidelberg Catechism: What is your only comfort in life and death? That I am not my own, but belong  to my faithful Savior Jesus Christ.

But then also, as a writer. I experience this as wellwere practically under contractual obligation to our publishers to self-make. There are very few nonfiction writers of our generation who get away with skipping all the personal branding stuff.

I hate it. Its bad for me. My ideal for my career is to not have to do any self-promotion that is not talking about a book.

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I think talking about interesting ideas is interesting. Thats something that I genuinely enjoy. But more broadly, all the things we are increasingly expected to do as writers in an attention economyhawking your book and getting blurbs, being in the right places, networkingthat expectation, I think, is really, really spiritually unhealthy. I am never less spiritually healthy than the month after a book of mine comes out.

Im doing my best to find ways to check that. I have a bazillion blockers on all my devices in the hopes that there are parts of the day that I dont have any internet access, and I can no longer access Twitter on my iPhone.

But I think that if there is any good to the horrific requirement to self-create, its that more and more of us are aware of what an unrewarding slog self-creation for profit is.

Privacy and being offlinethese are luxury goods now. And I dont think they should be luxury goods, in that you shouldnt have to be rich to be able to unplug. But we are perhaps seeing the benefit of not having to do this all the time. I think theres a growing, conscious sense of trying to protect some aspects of time and life from the panopticon.
At just 14 years old, Lavinia Fernandes competes with the other young people in her church, located in Recife, Pernambuco, northeast Brazil, to see who can bring the most friends from school to the Saturday services. There are now more than 10 people from her class at school who started attending church through her.

My friends comment that I became kinder and happier after I became a Christian and that they can see God in my life, said the teenager.

Like Fernandes, millions of other Christian teenagers throughout Brazil and other Latin American countries are experiencing something special in their journeys of faith. Recent research by the Barna Group reveals that Latin America is home to a connected, digitally enabled generation that is committed to their faith, engaged with the Bible, and hungry to learn more about Jesus.

Barna surveyed 3,320 young people, ages 13 to 17, from July 21 to August 24, 2021, in Brazil, Honduras, Mexico, and Colombia. Young people in all four countries revealed an enthusiasm and passion for their faith consistently higher than the global average. (Barna polled 26 countries around the world for this survey.) Brazilian teens, in particular, showed an especially heightened awareness of Christ and the Bible.

When asked what they really think about Jesus, 74 percent of Christian Brazilian teenagers said they believe he offers people hope, and 60 percent said Christ makes a real difference in todays world.

Just over half (55%) of Brazilian teenagers, however, believe that Jesus was God in human form.

Brazilian teenagers are more likely to believe in Jesus miracles and his return.

Barna classifies committed Christians as those who identify as believers and claim to have a personal commitment to following Christ and nominal Christians as those who identify as believers but do not have a personal commitment to following Jesus. By those definitions, just under one in four teenagers around the world is a committed Christian, but among those surveyed in Latin America, that number rises to 37 percentand among Brazilians, it rises even higher, reaching 45 percent.

The research also shows that teenagers who are more committed and engaged are more likely to have a significant experience of faith. When confronted with the statement My relationship with Jesus brings me deep joy and satisfaction, 76 percent of adolescents surveyed around the world strongly agreed, but this number increased to 84 percent among Latin Americans surveyed.

The number of evangelical churches in Brazil has jumped from 17,033 in 1990 to 109,560 in 2019, an increase of 543 percent, according to the latest data available. In 2019 alone, an average of 17 new evangelical churches opened per day in Brazil, according to researcher Victor Augusto Araujo Silva, at the University of Zurich, Switzerland.

Long a country dominated by Catholicism, the arrival of Baptists, Lutherans, and Calvinists to Brazil at the end of the 19th century helped usher in the arrival of the evangelical movement. In the 20th century, missionaries from the US brought the Pentecostal movement, predominantly to the north and southeast parts of the country. By the 2030s, evangelicals may outnumber Catholics, projects demographer Jose Eustaquio Diniz Alves.

For Nathan Zortea, a youth pastor at the CCvideira church in Fortaleza, Ceara, a congregation in the northeastern part of the country, Brazilian teenagers reap the fruits of evangelical churches whose reach crossed socioeconomic and racial lines.

The social inequality that exists in Brazil ends up showing our teenagers that the gospel is good news of justice and righteousness, of a God who is for you and not against you. Our churches have played a fundamental role in presenting these teenagers with a gospel that invites them to live something new, said the leader of the A13, a youth ministry that currently has an average weekly attendance of more than a thousand teenagers.

In addition to being very engaged now, Brazilian and Honduran teenagers have been more motivated to keep learning about Jesus. The Barna survey shows that globally only 38 percent of those surveyed said they are very motivated to learn more about Christ, while that number jumped to 63 percent in Latin America and nearly doubled in Brazil (73%) and Honduras (74%).

For Jaco Adonias, pastor of teenagers at Cidade Viva Church in Joao Pessoa, Paraiba, a neighboring state, Gen Z is thirsty for the truths that only the gospel can offer.

I can see in my ministry how true the numbers that were presented in the survey are. I know teenagers aged 13, 14, and 15 who have made a real difference in their communities and environments, said the leader of Rede Livre, a ministry that brings together more than 600 teenagers weekly. I always encourage the leaders we have here at the church not to underestimate the potential of these boys and girls.

Increasing Bible engagement among young people is one area where church leaders will need to continually invest their efforts. Altogether, while 85 percent of teenagers studied in Latin America claimed to have a Bible at home, one in five (19%) never use one. Despite this, Brazilian and Honduran teens think highly of the Scriptures.

In Latin America, only 12 percent of Christian teens surveyed said they read the Bible every day. In Brazil, 66 percent said they prefer to read a printed version of the Scriptures versus 33 percent who read through an app on their smartphone or tablet.

Additionally, the survey reveals that 67 percent of Brazilian Christians not only believe the Bible is the Word of God, compared with an overall 59 percent of Latin American teens who use or own a Bible, but also show a higher level of engagement with the Bible than believers from any country in the survey. Barna defines engaged as having a high view of the Bible (believing it to be the inspired and unerring Word of God) and reading it several times a week.

Those considered to be open to the Bible are defined as either having a high view of it and reading it less often than Bible-engaged teens (but more often than three or four times a year) or having a neutral view of the Bible.

Teens in Latin America are highly motivated by a sense of social justice; 49 percent of committed Christians and 56 percent of Bible-engaged teens are justice motivated.

(This term refers to teens who strongly agree with all of the following: that it is important to change conditions that cause individual suffering and protect the well-being of all people; that they are confident that they can make a positive impact on others lives and influence others to promote fairness and equality; and that in the future they will engage in activities that promote justice and work collaboratively with people in need.)

The more the teenagers are engaged with the Bible, the more they feel motivated to seek justice.

Brazilian and Honduran teens also receive further training regarding their Bible studies from family and church leaders.

According to Barna, Though teens are usually reluctant to precisely name barriers to Bible reading (the plurality selects none), Bible users and Christian teens in Latin America may sometimes struggle to understand or stay focused on the text. Concentration difficulties may also be connected to increased smartphone use after the pandemic.

(A 2022 report analyzing data collected by 46 studies and involving nearly 30,000 children from various countries showed that the average amount of time teens spend in front of screens every day has skyrocketed by 52 percent since 2020. It has increased from 2.7 hours to 4 hoursan additional hour and twenty minutes of daily consumption.)

For leaders, Barnas findings underscore the importance of their work in educating young people on the necessity and relevance of the Bible. For pastor Lucas Nagib, from Lagoinha Baptist Church in Niteroi, Rio de Janeiro, one factor that has led young Brazilians to stand out in relation to those from other countries is these teenagers high commitment to expose their faith with their peers and friends through social media.

Here in our church, we believe a lot in this generation, and we give them a lot of opportunity to grow and develop. We have many leaders who are teenagers, and they make a total difference in the life of the church, said the leader of the Nexteen ministry, which has a weekly attendance of more than 500 teenagers.

Back in Recife, Fernandes has also organized a Bible study at her school, and it currently brings together more than 40 teenagers to pray, worship, and read the Bible together each week.

Its a huge responsibility, because everyone at my school is paying attention to my actions now, she said. If they wont go to church, I want to bring the gospel to where they are.

[ This article is also available in Portugues. ]
Living Word Lutheran Church in suburban Chicago had expected to be without its pastor on Sunday since he surrendered to authorities in Georgia days before.

Chaplain Stephen Lee bought a one-way ticket to Atlanta and turned himself in Friday on charges related to election interference, the last of 18 people indicted along with former president Donald Trump. He wore a clerical collar in his booking photo.

Prosecutors allege that Lee went to the home of a Georgia election worker in an attempt to sway her testimony.

Lee ended up being released on bail, backed by the prayers of his congregation and financial support from a Christian advocacy group.

I just have to say this. I am just so proud of you folks.  We were planning on possibly my absence today, but you didnt skip a beat, Lee told the congregation in Orland Park, Illinois, where he has been serving for three and a half years amid a pastoral vacancy.

Last Sunday morning, he preached from Isaiah and Romans, and the church lifted up his family with prayers of guidance and blessings as they work through their current struggles, and a prayer of thanksgiving for support.

Part of that support came from the Illinois Family Institute, which set up a legal defense fund to help cover 10 percent of his $75,000 bond for release. The Christian group has partnered with a company called Make Honey Great Again, which agreed to donate a portion of sales. Its honey comes in bottles shaped like Trumps head.

Image: Win McNamee / Getty Images

You may like or dislike the bottle design, but its filled with healthy, pure, raw honey and we hope the uniqueness of the packaging will generate awareness, prayers, and donations for Chaplain Lee, the Illinois Family Institute wrote.

Between Monday and Thursday of last week, the Illinois Family Institutes fund had raised $4,000, and Herneitha Richardson, the host of a pro-Trump podcast called Diamond and Silk, covered the remaining $3,500 of his bail, according to Lees attorney David Shestokas. He called it a miracle that the pastor didnt have to spend time in jail.

Lees indictment stems from his visits to the home of a Georgia election worker whom Trump falsely accused of pulling out suitcases full of ballots to interfere with the vote. He has been charged with violating Georgias RICO act as well as conspiracy to solicit false statements and writings, criminal attempt to influence witnesses, and influencing witnesses.

In the aftermath of the contentious presidential election in 2020, Lee went to Ruby Freemans house twice, and she called the police. Reuters reported that he told the officers, Im a pastor, and Im also working with some folks who are trying to help Ruby out. And also get to some truth of whats going on. He had driven to Georgia from Illinois.

Shestokas and Lees supporters see his outreach to Freeman not as political maneuvering but as genuine pastoral concern.

If this case in Georgia is successful and criminalizes election contests, providing legal advice, lobbying legislatures, free speech, freedom of religion, or even offering pastoral servicesthe basic underpinnings organizing society will be severely damaged, read a press release from Shestokas.

The attorney said that as a former police chaplain, Lee was compelled to offer on-the-ground assistance at national crises, having ministered after the Columbine school shooting, September 11 attacks, Hurricane Katrina, the 2017 mass shooting in Las Vegas, and several natural disasters.

If you consider Reverend Lees history of traveling to unusual settings, and offering this combination of law enforcement and pastoral experience to assist people that are under stress, its not out of character, Shestokas told the Daily Beast.

And it may not be something you do, or I doI wouldntbut I dont have the same history that he has.  You know, so many of the big stories that are headlines around the country in the last 30 years, hes been there. Hes kind of the Forrest Gump of crises in America.

The indictment, however, charges that Leealong with Willie Lewis Harrison Floyd III of Black Voices for Trump and Trevian Kutti, a publicistwere there in an attempt to sway Freeman as Trump fought Georgias election results.

Image: Courtesy image

The prosecutors allege that Lee, Floyd, and Kutti misled Freeman by stating that she needed protection and by purporting to offer help, with the intent to influence her testimony.

According to the Northern Illinois district of the Lutheran ChurchMissouri Synod, Lee is a retired pastor, emeritus, a designation given to pastors over 55 who no longer serve under a call. His church is currently searching to fill its pastor position. When queried by CT, the district declined to comment further on Lees case.

Illinois Family Institute executive director David E. Smith said the legal fund raised over $10,000 as of Tuesday. He told CT that there has been a lot of interest in Lees case, which he believes has implications for religious liberty.

I think its fairly evident to people that the government is being weaponized, Smith said. It appears to me that Reverend Lees only mistake was knocking on a door  this is a precedent that cannot be permitted to stand.

Shestokas says he and Lee regularly pray together, with the pastor thanking God for his provision and repeating that no matter the outcome God is on his throne.

Lee is awaiting the court arraignment in the case.

As of Monday, Trumps arraignment has been slated for September 6. According to news reports, trial dates are uncertain in the Georgia case as individual defendants pursue varying legal strategies.
CPAC chair faces new allegations of sexual misconduct as vice chair steps down

The head of the American Conservative Union, which organizes the prominent annual Conservative Political Action Conference, faces new allegations of sexual misconduct as a top board member has stepped down.

Charlie Gerow, the vice chairman of the board at the ACU, resigned Friday, The Washington Post reported Sunday. In his resignation letter, Gerow urged the board to investigate allegations of sexual misconduct directed at ACU Chairman Matt Schlapp.

ACU is best known as the driving force behind CPAC, an annual gathering of conservative activists where Republican politicians and presidential hopefuls have spoken over the last 50 years.

New allegations against Schlapp outlined in The Washington Post Sunday involve two instances where young male staffers allege they were subject to unwanted physical contact.

In the first incident, which took place in 2017, Schlapp is accused of trying to kiss a male ACU staffer without his consent at a work function after drinking. Five years later, Schlapp allegedly made unwanted physical advances on an employee of another organization during a CPAC business trip in Palm Beach, Florida.



These allegations are completely fabricated and represent a blatant attempt by Mr. Gerow and disgruntled individuals to force Mr. Schlapp to step down, Matt Smith, a member of the ACU executive committee, said in a statement. "Only when it became clear that he was not going to be reelected to the board did he fabricate these false allegations.

Earlier this year, GOP strategist Carlton Huffman filed a lawsuit alleging that Schlapp grabbed his crotch and invited him back to his hotel room as the longtime Republican operative drove the ACU Chairman around Atlanta, Georgia, ahead of last year's U.S. Senate election.

While court filings reveal that Schlapp has admitted to texting and calling Huffman and spending time with him at two bars, the high-profile political insider has denied committing any act of sexual impropriety against him.

The lawsuit against Schlapp stemming from the alleged encounter with Huffman continues to proceed in the Circuit Court for the City of Alexandria, Virginia. Although Huffman initially elected to remain anonymous, as reflected in the complaint titled Doe v. Schlapp, he later came forward to The Washington Post after a judge ruled he couldn't proceed anonymously.

The lawsuit alleges that at one of the bars, "Schlapp sat unusually close to Mr. Doe, such that his leg repeatedly contacted and was in almost constant contact with Mr. Doe's leg."

"Mr. Schlapp was so close to Mr. Doe that he bumped into Mr. Doe's torso where Mr. Doe had a Sig Sauer handgun holstered, asked about it, and professed an unfamiliarity with this weapon and firearms generally," the complaint states. "Mr. Schlapp also encouraged Mr. Doe to have more drinks despite the fact that Mr. Doe was driving."

The suit accuses Schlapp of sexual battery by "fondling Mr. Doe's genital area in a sustained fashion" and also accuses Schlapp and his wife, Mercedes, of defamation.

The legal filing contains a screenshot of Mercedes Schlapp describing the then-anonymous accuser as a "troubled individual" who has "been fired from multiple jobs including one firing for lying and lying on his resume."

The complaint contends that her assertion was false and defamatory. The Schlapps are also accused of conspiracy.

Huffman is seeking a $7 million judgment against Schlapp, $700,000 in punitive damages concerning the two counts against him and an additional $3 million judgment against the Schlapps for the other two counts in addition to $700,000 in damages.

In a statement posted to Twitter Friday, CPAC reacted to Gerow's call for an investigation into the allegations by sharing a video of the former board member praising Schlapp's leadership at this year's Conservative Political Action Conference.

"Isn't it remarkable what under his leadership and the team that he has assembled and the staff that he has brought together, what CPAC has become?" Gerow asked in the video.

There are multiple public videos of Charlie Gerow endorsing and supporting the Chairman's leadership including extended remarks at the most recent national CPAC while the organization was under attack. We took Mr. Gerows public comments as being truthful, and we have no reason pic.twitter.com/VmFpXGRewe  CPAC (@CPAC) August 25, 2023

"There are multiple public videos of Charlie Gerow endorsing and supporting the Chairman's leadership including extended remarks at the most recent national CPAC while the organization was under national attack," CPAC's statement read. "We took Mr. Gerow's public comments as being truthful, and we have no reason to doubt them now."

CPAC speculated that an ulterior motive underlies Gerow's resignation and conversation with The Washington Post.

"It was only after Charlie Gerow realized that the board was not going to give him an additional term that he decided to resign. It comes as no surprise that we learned of his resignation from The Washington Post. This is the same paper that received all the previous leaks this year."

CPAC insisted that it "remains committed to compliance," adding, "Having a board that is unified toward the goal of defeating the left and winning on important issues and in the next election is critical to saving America."
Grandma sues school board after her gender-confused granddaughter is sex trafficked

A grandmother is suing a Virginia school district and a public defender for allegedly hiding her 14-year-old granddaughter's gender transition from her and advocating for the teen to be put in a group home, actions she claims resulted in the child falling into the hands of sex traffickers on two occasions.

Michele Blair is the grandmother of a teenager identified in court documents as "Sage," a female teenager who previously identified as a male but has since transitioned back to identifying as a female.

Blair, alongside her husband, has served as the minor girl's legal guardian since the child was 2 following her father's death. Sage reportedly had a history of mental health issues due to childhood trauma, and as she began experiencing puberty in 2019, the girl started feeling distressed about her body.

According to a complaint Blair filed in federal court last week, the granddaughter began identifying as a boy during her freshman year at Appomattox County High School in August 2021.

The district school board and Superintendent Annette A. Bennett are listed as defendants in the filing. Other defendants include school counselors Dena Olsen and Avery Via and Aneesa Khan, a public defender.

In response to an inquiry from The Christian Post, Maryland Public Defender Natasha Dartigue said Monday that Khan is not currently providing statements at this time.

"We fully support our attorney, who appropriately represented her client in accordance with her legal, ethical, and professional obligations," Dartigue stated.

The Appomattox County Public School District Superintendent did not immediately respond to The Christian Post's request for comment.

On Aug. 11, 2021, Sage told a friend she wanted to be called by a male name and pronouns. The complaint alleges that Olsen later asked the teenager whether she identified as a girl or a boy. When the child replied that she identified as the latter, the counselor reportedly offered to let the girl use the boys' bathroom without asking further questions.

The following day, Sage said during a meeting with Via and Olsen that she identified as a boy and wanted people to call her by a male name. Olsen did not address Sage by her chosen name when talking with Michele Blair about the student, nor did she disclose that the teenager was using male pronouns and using the boys' restroom.

According to the complaint, Sage faced threats and harassment in the hallways and bathrooms from the boys at school. Olsen allegedly did not check in with Sage until administrators informed her that other parents had notified them about the events taking place in the restrooms.

When Olsen called Sage to her office, the lawsuit claimed it was to discuss the teenager's identification as a boy. The counselor allegedly encouraged the student to "embrace" a male identity. The other counselor, Via, is accused of directing the student to websites and social media applications that promote gender transition so she could "find friends there."

On Aug. 24, 2021, Sage met with Olsen and another staff member, where the student alleged that she had been threatened, harassed and sexually assaulted when she was using the restroom.

Despite the allegations of assault, the lawsuit contends that Olsen still did not notify Blair about her granddaughter's desire to transition.

After Olsen, Via and a school police officer interrogated Sage about the assaults, Olsen informed Blair that the teenager had been using the boys' restroom. However, she did not tell the student's grandmother that her granddaughter had been using a male name and pronouns. Furthermore, when questioned by Olson and a police officer, it was reportedly implied that the student fabricated the threats of rape and was pressured to recant her story.

Blair did not learn that her granddaughter had been identified as a boy at school until she found a hall pass one day with the student's alternative name on it. The teenager eventually confessed to her guardian.

The grandmother assured Sage they would resolve the issue in the morning, and the teenager did not need to return to school the next day.

The high school freshman ran away from home on Aug. 25, 2021. The lawsuit states that an adult male later abducted and raped her. The girl was taken across state lines to Washington, D.C., and Maryland, where she was reportedly drugged, held captive and raped by multiple men.

One month later, the FBI and Baltimore law enforcement recovered Sage from the home of a registered sex offender. After law enforcement notified Blair that they had found her granddaughter, they took the teenager to a juvenile detention center, where she was placed in isolation.

When Blair and her husband arrived to pick her up, they were denied access and informed that the girl would need to appear in court that afternoon.

Khan was assigned to represent Sage during juvenile court proceedings, and she learned that the girl was identified as a boy at school. During court proceedings, the public defender told the judge it was "unsafe" for Sage to resume living with her guardians, as they didn't support her transition.

The 14-year-old was placed in a group home for boys. At the home, the lawsuit claims the teen was "told by Khan that her parents no longer wanted her and that Khan was going to arrange for [her] to live with a family in Maryland who would affirm her as a boy." Khan is accused of telling the girl to lie that her guardians were abusive so the public defender could "win the case."

Placed in a group home in Maryland, Sage was reportedly subjected to more abuse from boys in the home. On Nov. 12, 2021, she ran away from the home. The lawsuit contends that the teenager was abducted and raped by another male predator who brought her to Texas. She was abused until law enforcement rescued her in January 2022. Texas authorities immediately relinquished Sage to her grandmother, who returned home with her to Virginia.

As CP reported in January, the case inspired Virginia Delegate Dave LaRock, a Republican, to introduce "Sage's Law," also called the Child Protection Act, which would require school staff or administrators to inform at least one parent if their child identifies as trans.

According to The Federalist, Sage no longer proclaims to be a boy, and she wants the system to do a better job protecting kids like her who suffer from gender dysphoria.

"[Sage] has undergone intensive in-patient and outpatient therapy to address the

multiple incidents of extreme trauma caused by Defendants acts and omissions," the lawsuit argues. "She has been diagnosed with Complex PTSD for which she will likely need therapy for the rest of her life."

The plaintiff is seeking compensatory and punitive damages.
Iowa city repeals ban on LGBT 'conversion therapy' for minors

An Iowa city has voted to repeal a local ordinance banning the practice of therapy aimed at changing the sexual orientation of minors, following the threat of First Amendment legal action.

The Waterloo City Council voted 4-3 at a meeting on Monday night to repeal Ordinance 5701, also known as "Article C, Unfair Practices  Conversion Therapy," which had been adopted in May.

During public comment, Chad Mohammed, a licensed therapist and LGBT activist, spoke to the council and argued that "there was something very troubling happening" and called the effort to repeal the ordinance "a terrorist attack."

Local resident Karen Johnson argued in favor of the repeal, saying that parents should be able to "care for and raise and nurture their children within their family the way they want their family to be nurtured and raised."

She believes that when "those young people get out and are old enough to make their own decisions" on matters, "then that is their individual right to do so."

Members of the LGBT community also attended to denounce the ordinance's repeal, arguing that doing so threatened the safety of young people who trans identify or are gay.

Council member Jonathan Grieder, who voted against repeal, said that he had gotten 286 messages about the ordinance, of which only one person supported repealing the measure.

Council member Rob Nichols, who voted in favor of repeal, said that there would still be accountability measures for therapists practicing conversion therapy.

"To say that the removing of this ban takes away the main thrust of our ordinance in the first place is not completely true," said Nichols.

A couple of speakers at the meeting expressed concern about how the initial meeting about the ordinance and the decision to repeal it came during a closed city council session.

Waterloo Mayor Quentin Hart said that the council was within its rights to hold a closed meeting regarding the issue, as such meetings are permitted when discussing threats of litigation.

The decision to repeal the ordinance came in response to a complaint letter from the Liberty Counsel, a national law firm dedicated to First Amendment rights. The legal group contacted the city after residents notified them of the ban.

The letter, sent to council members on June 30, argued that the ordinance "bans protected speech" and "is offensive to the First Amendment."

"The Ordinance constitutes a ban on protected speech and further imposes a penalty upon those who wish to exercise their First Amendment rights in their professional practice," stated the letter.

Liberty Counsel Founder and Chairman Mat Staver said in a statement on Monday that "Waterloo made a wise decision to repeal their unconstitutional ordinance."

"The First Amendment affords counselors and clients the freedom to choose the counsel of their choice free of political censorship," stated Staver.

"With these laws out of the way, minors who are struggling with gender confusion are able to get the help they need from licensed counselors."
Choi Won-jong, the suspect of the lethal stabbing rampage in Bundang, is escorted by police officials out of a police station in Seongnam, Gyeonggi Province, to the prosecution office, Aug. 10. Yonhap



Prosecutors on Tuesday indicted the 22-year-old suspect in the deadly stabbing rampage in Bundang, south of Seoul, which left two dead and 12 others wounded.



Choi Won-jong is accused of ramming his mother's vehicle into random pedestrians outside a department store in Bundang and then attacking shoppers with a knife inside the establishment on Aug. 3. The department store is connected to nearby Seohyeon Station and draws many commuters and shoppers.



Two women died while being treated for injuries sustained in the car crash, while 12 others were wounded, five of them seriously.



Choi is also charged with visiting the same department store and nearby subway stations with a weapon the day before his crime, intending to go on a stabbing rampage.



The Seongnam branch of the Suwon District Prosecutors Office indicted Choi on the charges of murder, attempted murder and murder preparation Tuesday.



Referring to its investigation results and analysis, the prosecution office said Choi, while living alone in isolation, developed delusions of persecution that got worse as he became exposed to online posts complaining of similar symptoms. He also appears to have reached the conclusion that violence is a fundamental solution and a means of self-protection, prosecution officials said.



In the initial police investigation, Choi reportedly claimed that "a certain group of people is stalking and trying to kill me" and spoke incoherently.



Choi was diagnosed with schizoid personality disorder in 2020 but has not received any medical treatment in the past three years. Shortly before his crime, Choi came to his parents' home and complained of his difficulties but concluded his parents were bought off by the staking organization upon their suggestion that he undergo medical treatment.



Choi had previously been enrolled in a university but dropped out due to mental difficulties, including an anxiety disorder, and later moved to his current university, where classes are given mostly online, the officials said. (Yonhap)


Planned Parenthood offers free vasectomies to men in mobile clinic called 'The Nutcracker'

Planned Parenthood is offering free vasectomies to uninsured or underinsured men in a mobile trailer one provider calls The Nutcracker following reports that more men have sought the procedure after Roe v. Wades reversal.

Planned Parenthood of the St. Louis Region and Southwest Missouri plans to perform 100 free vasectomies in October at three of its locations to commemorate World Vasectomy Day. This marks the third year in a row that the nation's largest abortion provider has participated in the day.

Students for Life of Americas Chief Media and Policy Strategist, Kristi Hamrick, who also serves as the vice president of media and policy at Students for Life Action, believes it's another example that Planned Parenthoods priorities are all wrong.

Planned Parenthood's anti-baby bias is obvious in their new and creepy endeavor, mobile vasectomy vans, Hamrick told The Christian Post on Monday. Whether it's minors sold sterilizing drugs or men urged to get into a van to end their fertility, it's clear that Planned Parenthood doesn't care what happens to people as long as they don't have a baby.

Planned Parenthood could be helping these uninsured men get jobs, insurance, hope and a future, she continued. But instead, they want to rob them of their future families, leaving them exactly where they are.

Planned Parenthood of the St. Louis Region and Southwest Missouri did not immediately respond to The Christian Posts request for comment.

According to the Springfield News-Leader, the vasectomy procedure reportedly takes 20 to 30 minutes, and the providers offering the vasectomies are performing a minimally invasive procedure that wont leave cuts or require stitches.

Forty appointments will be available at the Central West End Health Center in St. Louis on Oct. 19 and Oct. 30, and in Rolla on Oct. 20 and Oct. 30. Springfield will also have 30 appointments available on Oct. 21.

One of the providers performing the procedure is Dr. Esgar Guarin, who conducts the operation in a mobile trailer that he calls The Nutcracker. In a statement to the outlet, Guarin explained that he tells his patients that a visit to the dentist is worse than a vasectomy appointment.

The St. Louis Planned Parenthood chapter began offering free vasectomies following a reported increase in demand for the procedure after the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade last summer.

As The Daily Mail reported last October, the Planned Parenthood chapter performed 42 vasectomies in July 2022, whereas the year before, it only performed 10. Data from Google also showed a surge in searches for the procedure following the draft leak and the eventual decision, according to the outlet.

The Planned Parenthood chapter offering vasectomies via a mobile trailer also announced its plans last October to deploy mobile abortion clinic vans to circumvent state-level abortion bans. The vans would operate in Illinois and travel near the borders of Missouri, Kentucky and Tennessee.

The 37-foot-long mobile clinic includes two exam rooms, a lab and a waiting room, according to The Associated Press. The mobile clinic also offers surgical abortions and chemical abortions up to 11 weeks gestation.

Both Dr. Colleen McNicholas, chief medical officer for Planned Parenthood's St. Louis office, and Yamelsie Rodriguez, president and CEO of Planned Parenthood of the St. Louis Region and Southwest Missouri, declined to discuss the clinics security and safety measures with the AP.

In an earlier statement to CP, Emma Waters, a research associate in the Richard and Helen DeVos Center for Life, Religion, and Family at the conservative think-tank The Heritage Foundation in Washington, D.C., questioned the safety of mobile abortion clinics.

"If they don't feel confident in expressing the safety and reliability of this option, then why should women feel comfortable going to them for such intimate medical help?" Waters asked.

The research associate also noted that chemical abortions are four times more dangerous than surgical abortions, appearing to reference the 2015 study, titled "Incidence of Emergency Room Department Visits and Complications After Abortion."

Waters asserted that Planned Parenthoods mobile abortion clinic plan takes abortion on demand to a whole new level."

"This is dehumanizing for women and for the preborn children whose lives they're taking," she stated. "It's a complete disrespect for the laws and the convictions of other states who have voted to protect life in the womb."
Revelation 16: When it becomes hotter on Earth than ever before

Its certainly been hot lately  so hot even air conditioners are feeling intimidated.

According to data provided by the National Centers for Environmental Prediction, July 3rd of this year marked the highest world temperature on record. The worlds average temperature runs between 53.6 degrees and just under 62.6 degrees, but this year its been as high as 62.96 degrees. That may seem relatively insignificant, but scientists say it isnt a trivial matter. The earth seems to be heating up.

Speaking of record-breaking heat, in 2020, Death Valley, California registered what is believed to be the hottest temperature ever recorded on earth. The temperature reading of 130 degrees is supposedly the highest officially recorded in the world since 1931.

The only measurements that surpass it are a highly controversial reading from Death Valley in 1913 of 134.1-degrees and a 131-degree reading from Kebili, Tunisia in 1931, which is regarded as Africas hottest temperature. However, even the Tunisian record is questioned for its credibility, according to experts.

Most scientists say the increase in temperature is because of human-caused climate change. The blistering heat allegedly coming from the use of fossil fuels, which release large amounts of greenhouse gases, is said to trap heat in the atmosphere and cause major energy blackouts, wildfires, and extreme weather conditions.

Moreover, a team of experts at NASA found a huge sunspot that is expected to grow and likely to move so it faces directly at Earth. It has the potential to unleash powerful solar flare events and coronal mass ejections. These types of eruptions on the suns surface can potentially affect satellite navigation, negatively impact the nations power grid, and harm daily life.

Although I have an open mind, Im not convinced the cause of rising temperatures is due to climate change. Without delving much into the subject, there seems to be insufficient data to make this conclusion. It could be that the current warming trends are consistent with historic climate cycles. There is really no way to know for certain. Climate models used to project future changes are too uncertain and lack accuracy due to limited measurements and observations. What is most disturbing about the assertions of climate change is the proposed policies for addressing it would seriously harm economies, impact employment, and lead to the inefficient allocation of resources that could mostly hurt the poor.

There is one theory, however, that seems more plausible. One that involves solar activity and cosmic rays. According to this theory, scientists say that variations in solar activity, more specifically, changes in the suns output of energy and its magnetic field, can influence the Earths climate by indirectly affecting cloud formation. The hypothesis suggests that when solar activity is high, the suns magnetic field deflects some of the cosmic rays (high-energy particles from space) that continuously bombard the Earth. With fewer cosmic rays reaching Earths atmosphere, the theory proposes there is a decrease in the formation of low-altitude clouds, which result in less sunlight being reflected back into space. Thus, causing a warming effect on the planet. Conversely, when solar activity is low, more cosmic rays reach the Earth, enhancing cloud formation and leading to a cooling effect.

Im not saying solar activity is the cause of current warming trends. I am saying it seems more likely than climate change. Climate change lays the blame wholly at the feet of humanity, which seems somewhat hubris and an exaggerated view of mankinds power to destroy a world that belongs to God.

But it does seem rather indisputable that temperatures are rising  rising higher than weve had on record. As Randy Cerveny, an Arizona State University professor, who is with the Worlds Meteorological Organization told The Associated Press, temperatures are creeping up on [the 134-degree record] year after year. That is something that cannot be denied. These extremes tell us a lot about what will happen in the future.

Is it possible the future Cerveny and other scientists predict is connected in some way with Revelation chapter 16 verses 8 and 9? This is what the Bible says:

Then the fourth angel poured out his bowl on the sun, causing it to scorch everyone with its fire. Everyone was burned by this blast of heat, and they cursed the name of God, who had control over all these plagues. They did not repent of their sins and turn to God and give him glory.

Revelation chapter 16 lists seven plagues that will come upon the Earth because humanity rejects Gods grace in Christ. This period represents the end of the end time.

1. Harmful and painful sores come upon those who bear the Mark of the Beast and worship its image (Revelation 16:2).

2. The sea becomes like the blood of a corpse (Revelation 16:3).

3. The rivers and springs become like blood (Revelation 16:4-7).

4. The heat of the sun greatly intensifies so that people are scorched (Revelation 16:8-9).

5. The kingdom of the Beast is plunged into darkness (Revelation 16:10-11).

6. The Euphrates river dries, making way for the battle of Armageddon (Revelation 16:12-16)

7. An earthquake occurs that is off the Richter scale (Revelation 16:17-21).

One may remember previously that at the sound of the Fourth Trumpet, a third part of the sun, the moon, and the stars were darkened. In those verses, only light was mentioned. Nothing was said about the heat. So, this text is not a recurrence of the Fourth Trumpet. In this text, the angel responsible for the sun pours out his bowl on that great star and intensifies its heat to such a degree that it scorches people.

The fourth bowl judgment in Revelation 16 is the fulfillment of Malachis prophecy, which reads:

The LORD of Heavens Armies says, The day of judgment is coming, burning like a furnace. On that day the arrogant and the wicked will be burned up like straw. They will be consumed  roots, branches, and all. But for you who fear my name, the Sun of Righteousness will rise with healing in his wings. And you will go free, leaping with joy like calves let out to pasture. On the day when I act, you will tread upon the wicked as if they were dust under your feet, says the LORD of Heavens Armies (Malachai 4:1-2).

The late Dr. Henry Morris, one of the founders of the Creation Research Society, and author of The Revelation Record, said concerning this text:

Though the sun is not part of the earth, it serves the earth. It was created specifically to give light upon earth and to be for signs, and for seasons, and for days, and years (Genesis 1:14, 15). The sun has indeed been a good servant to man, and all of Earths physical and biological processes derive their energy ultimately from the sun. His [out radiations] are from the end of the Heaven, and his circuit unto the ends of it: and there is nothing hid from the heat thereof (Psalm 19:6). But the sun, like the Lord Jesus Christ, whom it symbolizes as the light of the world (John 8:12) can be an enemy as well as a servant. It can both quicken and slay with its enormous power. And now is the time for judgment, when those plants without root or fruit will be revealed for what they are: And when the sun was up, they were scorched; and because they had no root, they withered away (Matthew 13:6). There was an angel of the winds, an angel of the waters, and now an angel of the sun. To this angel, God has entrusted the great energy conversion processes of the solar engine. Whatever the ultimate fuel is, this angel understands the components of the process and how to accelerate or decelerate it, thus warming or cooling the earth. When he pours out the contents of his great bowl on the sun, it will heat up to great intensity and the solar radiation will pour forth in great waves of scorching heat on the earth.

No horror movie has ever been able to picture something so dreadful as what is described in this chapter. Amidst a desolate landscape, ravaged by torment and despair, people will be writhing in pain, their bodies afflicted with ulcerated and festering sores. The sea, once abounding with life, will lie motionless, resembling a vast abyss of crimson. Vital water sources will have turned foul and appear as blood. Thirst will be an unquenchable malady, driving people to desperately search, perhaps even war with one another, for just a small amount of clean water to slake their parched throats. Following quickly on the heels of these woes will come the blazing, blistering, and burning heat. Day by day, the sun will grow more intense and merciless. Once fertile lands will become barren, the crops completely withered. People will shield themselves as much as possible from the searing inferno by trying to stay indoors.

What is so sad is they wont even know three more plagues wait ominously on the horizon.

One would think the worlds inhabitants might repent after such horrendous suffering  they would humble themselves under the mighty power of their rightful Sovereign. Most people know of someone who was converted to Christ because their troubles revealed their constant need of the Creators benevolent mercies, which they took for granted.

There is a story about a little boy who made a splendid toy ship. Filled with enthusiasm, he set off one day to sail his creation on the shimmering waters. But much to his dismay, the boat drifted away from him, making it impossible to retrieve. Desperately wanting his boat back, he sought the help of an older boy, hoping he might rescue it for him.

The older lad, without uttering a word, gathered some stones and appeared to throw them at the younger boys beautiful toy ship. Confusion and anger filled the little fellows heart as he believed the older boy was being cruel, tormenting, and irritating him. He didnt know that each stone was cast intentionally. Each stone had a benevolent purpose and was part of the older boys plan. With each stone thrown, the troubled waters created ripples and waves and gradually pushed the boat closer to shore.

Astonishment and delight flooded the youngsters spirit as he realized the older youths actions werent meant to mock or hurt him, but to lend him the assistance he needed. Eventually, the boat reached a point where the boy could effortlessly reach out and reclaim his precious treasure.

As the first two lines of that iconic childrens table blessing says, God is great. God is good. Indeed, he is. He deserves our love, trust, and obedience. However, many people fail to recognize God as a part of the equation. Therefore, God benevolently, with purpose and a plan, sends troubles to get their attention. As one adage says, Sometimes God has to knock you flat on your back to get you to look up. Sometimes God has to trouble the waters of life to get us safely to shore.

This is how it often happens. When sin is in our lives and we have suffered a great loss, God is often graciously pushing us toward himself. There is a tremendous spiritual opportunity in the pain  an opportunity for a blessed course correction in life. The wise capitalize on these moments and turn away from their sins and find deliverance and a profoundly joyous personal relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ.

Still, others become angry with God, double down on their sin, blaspheme and curse his name, and dont repent of their evil deeds.

In the book of Exodus, the Bible says that when God afflicted Egypt with plagues so Pharoah would free the oppressed and enslaved Hebrews, initially Pharoah hardened his own heart against God (Exodus 8:32). In other words, the potentate consciously decided to resist Gods will. Pharoahs stubbornness and self-will led him to reject the signs and wonders God was showing him. These measures should have been enough to turn Pharoah around, but he still wouldnt free the Hebrews.

As the plagues continued, the Scriptures say something noteworthy started to happen, God hardened Pharoahs heart (Exodus 9:12; 14:8). This means that God, knowing Pharoahs prideful inclination to contest, allowed his heart to become increasingly hardened. By doing so, God not only demonstrated his power over Egypt, but also fulfilled his purpose of displaying his glory and ultimately delivering his people.

In the future, this same scenario happens when the worlds masses defy Gods will and pledge their allegiance to the Antichrist. Their hearts become irrevocably hardened and destined to feel the torrid heat of Gods wrath.

One may question what happens to the people who become believers in Jesus during the Tribulation period  those who survive martyrdom and remain on the earth when the heat is on, so to speak. It seems only logical they would be affected, too. Evidently not. They will be protected from these plagues just as the Hebrews were when they were dwelling in Egypt and God sent plagues there to deliver them. (Exodus 8:22, 9:6, 9:26, 10:23, 11:7).

It seems that there are movements at work today, not only on Earth but also in the heavens, possibly the sun, being prepared for the events prophesied in the sacred pages of Revelation.

With each passing day, it becomes clearer that the return of Christ is near. The most important question everyone must answer is a very personal one: Are you prepared for Christs appearance? Are you sure that youre ready?

Romans 10:9 assures us, If you openly declare that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved (Romans 10:9). This Scripture emphasizes the importance of not only acknowledging Jesus as Lord verbally but also believing in his resurrection deep within ones heart. It highlights that salvation comes through genuine faith in Jesus as the Son of God and the Savior of humanity and, more importantly, as your own personal Savior from sin.
California pastor shares pulpit with clown barber, says testimony impacting young people for Christ 'Why can't God use Richie?' says Pastor Joey Tellez

A Southern California pastor is helping a self-described clown barber to become a pastor himself after documenting his conversion on social media.

Richie the Barber, whose real name is Richie Esposito, is ready to jump into pastoral ministry after professing faith in Jesus Christ following a number of podcast appearances in which the 38-year-old barber shared his newfound faith.

With a long list of media appearances in recent years, Richie announced last week hes studying to become a pastor with a little help from Pastor Joey Tellez of The Connection House Church in Whittier.

The caption read: Im studying to become a pastor. I finally got my first book. Pastor Joey is helping me study for my test @thejoeytellez Its gonna take a year, but Im dedicated to [doing] this in Jesus name #richiethebarber #jesus #jesuschrist #pastor #facetattoo #facetattoos #tattoo #piercing #piercings #clown #clowns

The Huntington Beach native has become a fixture on Instagram and other social media sites for his colorful  some might say even startling  full-facial clown makeup tattoo, silicon implants and signature red clown hair.

And while in recent years, Richie, with his 152,000 followers on Instagram and another 181,000 on YouTube, has managed to land himself on Americas Got Talent and in local media reports primarily for confetti-bombing celebrities like the Kardashians and Jennifer Lopez, he now says hes a changed man whos ready to lead others in Christ.

Hes shared his testimony on stage and in a number of podcast appearances, including one he shared on Aug. 27 in which he says where he once did drugs and partied with satanic celebrities, he always knew God but always said, I'll be there later.

After getting sober about three years ago, Richie said he finally gave his life to Christ after a broken relationship.

I came home and I started to believe, and the Holy Spirit just entered, he said.

Esposito did not respond to a request for comment from The Christian Post. This article will be updated if any response is received.

The conversion, according to Tellez, is very real  and its having an impact on others lives as well.

The biggest miracle is ultimately salvation, you know? Tellez told The Christian Post. And what Ive seen in Richie minister is that people are getting set free, and it's such a beautiful thing.

After the two first connected on social media, Tellez said shortly after that, Richie was baptized and was starting a Christian punk band and offered a spot to Tellez to play drums.

We just hit it off playing music initially, said Tellez. And then I just started to speak into his life.

Since then, he has opened up his pulpit to Richie multiple times.

I wanted him to share what God has done because, ultimately, its just been an incredible testimony for what the Lord continues to do in his life, he said.

A Facebook post from June shows Tellez and Richie baptizing a woman at a bar in Glendora, California, where the pair delivered healing in the name of Jesus.

When asked whether the clown getup is a potential stumbling block for the Gospel, Tellez said thats not how he sees it.

In fact, Tellez said he believes Richie is an answered prayer after Tellez said he specifically remembers praying in his backyard for the Lord to bring people into his life whom nobody would expect God to use.

And, says Tellez, God has done just that.

Ive seen a lot of people come to Christ through Richies testimony, he said. A lot of young people who feel that maybe they can't go to a traditional church where they might feel like theyre outcasts.

Part of Richies appeal, said Tellez, is to the younger generation who are tattooed and punk rockers who are really looking for hope and theyre really searching for answers of love and compassion and empathy.

A lot of these young people feel like they can't walk into a normal church without being critiqued and being judged in a sense because of what they look like, he said. And the tendency, I think, is for people to judge the exterior instead of looking at the interior of a person.

... We make room for people who normally might not feel comfortable in a regular church setting.

And as for those critics who say Richies clown persona could be a distraction from the message of the Gospel, Tellez said hes not really concerned with what religious people might think.

I think Jesus had the hardest time with the religious people, he said. He had the hardest time with Pharisees and Sadducees, who looked within the confines of a box, and so anything outside of the box is thought to be extreme.

But the thing is, why can't God use Richie?
'Jesus Calling' author Sarah Young in 'rapidly failing' health, publisher urges prayers

Sarah Young, author of the devotional Jesus Calling, is in rapidly failing health, her publisher, Thomas Nelson, revealed in a statement asking her supporters for prayers.

We received the hard news that Sarahs health is rapidly failing, Thomas Nelson Publishers wrote in a social media post last week.

We know that Sarah really believes in the power of prayer and prays for her readers every morning. Now, we have the precious privilege to lift up Sarah and her family. Please join us in prayer.

Originally published in 2004, Youngs 365-day devotional has sold over 35 million books worldwide and was named "Christian Book of the Year" in 2013 and 2018. Today, the Jesus Calling brand includes childrens devotionals, Bible storybooks, journals, seasonal books and the prayer devotional Jesus Listens, published in October 2021.

Publishing Jesus Calling was a long, prayer-filled journey, Young said in a recent statement. Ever since its publication, Ive prayed daily for people who are reading Jesus Calling or any of my subsequent books. I consider it an amazing privilege and a God-given responsibility to pray for readers.

Young, who graduated from Wellesley College in 1968 and earned a masters degree in biblical studies and counseling from Covenant Theological Seminary in St. Louis, is described in her official bio as biblically conservative in her faith and reformed in her doctrine.

She is married to Stephen Young, a Presbyterian missionary, and has two children and two grandchildren. The Youngs formerly served as missionaries in Japan and Australia and continue to be missionaries with Mission to the World, the PCA mission board.

According to a 2013 New York Times profile, Young has made few public appearances despite her commercial success due to Lyme disease and other health problems.

There are almost no public photographs of her, and she will not talk by telephone, the outlet noted.

Jesus Calling has been endorsed by celebrities, including Justin Bieber, who in 2016 shared a quote from the book on his social media. But Youngs work has also faced criticism in some Evangelical circles for being written in Jesus first-person voice.

In 2015, pastor and blogger Tim Challies called Jesus Calling "troubling, while author Randy Alcorn dubbed it an entire book built on falsehood."

"The biggest problem with Jesus Calling is very simple: Jesus did not speak these words. If these were His words, then Jesus Calling would be Scripture, which is by definition the words of God," the author explained in 2018.

"So if it's not (and it isn't) on an inspired and trustworthy level like Scripture itself, then it's making a false claim.

In a rare interview with Gloria Gaither and Phil Newman, Young said that before she writes, she spends time in prayer, including prayers for protection of my mind from distractions, distortions and deception.

I ask God to guide my mind as I focus on Him and His Word. Then I simply pray, Help me, Holy Spirit, and I wait. I have been strongly influenced by the Bible verse, Be still, and know that I am God, she said.

I want to make it clear that I do not have audible conversation with Jesus. Rather, its a quiet and personal time of praying, pondering Scripture, and seeking the guidance of the Holy Spirit.

In the introduction to Jesus Calling, Young also stressed that The Bible is, of course, the only inerrant Word of God; my writings must be consistent with that unchanging standard.

I have written from Jesus point of view; that is, the first person singular (I, Me, Mine) always refers to Christ. You refers to you, the reader, so the perspective is that of Jesus speaking to you, she wrote.

The Jesus Calling brand has also inspired the television show "Jesus Calling: Stories of Faith," which has featured guests including Amy Grant, Rev. Run & Justine Simmons, Tim Tebow, Tabitha Brown and Walker Hayes. The "Jesus Calling Podcast" has been downloaded nearly 15 million times since its 2016 launch.
Pastor Jonathan Laurie lists 6 features of Christ's 1,000-year reign on Earth

The son of Harvest Christian Fellowship Senior Pastor Greg Laurie recently laid out six attributes of the 1,000-year reign of Jesus Christ on Earth during the End Times.

Pastor Jonathan Laurie, who is part of the Harvest leadership, preached a sermon on Sunday about Revelation 20, which describes how, after the Second Coming, Jesus will reign on Earth for 1,000 years.

Its going to be amazing; its going to be beautiful, said Laurie. Its going to be like a brief layover in paradise before the real Paradise begins.

Regarding the aspects that will define this millennium described in Revelation, Laurie noted that the first key aspect will be that Jesus is King and will directly reign over all the Earth.

This is the moment weve all been waiting for. No more corrupt politicians, no more unjust rulings, no more backroom quid pro quo deals, Laurie said. Absolute righteousness will reign, and Jesus will be the King of the world.

The second defining aspect of the millennial reign of Christ, Laurie added, will be world peace, quoting Isaiah 2:4, which reads in part that nations will hammer their swords into plowshares and their spears into pruning hooks. Nation will no longer fight against nation, nor train for war anymore.

There will be, finally, world peace. No more terrorism, no more bombs, Laurie explained. Over the course of human history, hundreds of millions have been killed in wars, maybe even up to a billion.

Theres no longer going to be need for weapons anymore, no need to lock doors or spy on each others countries  only God can bring true world peace.

Laurie explained that the third aspect will be that joy will abound, noting that "there will be no more depression, there will be no more disease, no more cancer, no more wheelchairs, no more deafness or blindness.

The fourth aspect of the millennial reign will be that life will abound, with Laurie quoting Isaiah 65:20, which reads in part, Never again will there be in it an infant who lives but a few days, or an old man who does not live out his years; the one who dies at a hundred will be thought a mere child.

Laurie clarified that the people described in this passage were not believers who were taken up to Heaven during the rapture, but rather are those who remained on Earth and survived End Times tribulations.

During this thousand-year reign, their lives, living in their mortal bodies, they will be the ones that get these amazing perks of life, he continued. They will be the ones that have abnormally long lives.

The fifth aspect of the millennial kingdom of Christ, according to Laurie, will be that the animal kingdom will be subdued, referencing Isaiah 11:6, which predicts that the wolf and the lamb will live together; the leopard will lie down with the baby goat.

Theyre all going to be domesticated, he said. Youre going to be able to go and see them up close and personal. What an amazing idea.

Youre no longer going to have to go to the zoo or have to go on some wild safari to go and find these animals. Youre going to be able to call out to them, probably have them come to you.

The sixth aspect will be that the curse of sin is lifted, with Laurie explaining that Christians will be ruling and reigning with Christ and will be overseers on Earth.

Laurie then went on to explain how, after the thousand years has ended, Revelation records that the devil will be released from his prison for one final rebellion before he is defeated once and for all.

Lauries sermon was part of a multi-week series at Harvest centered on the End Times and various topics, such as the Second Coming of Jesus and the rapture.

Jonathan Lauries father, Pastor Greg Laurie, has preached the other parts of the series, including one message from late last month in which he said there are signs of the times in the modern day that indicate Jesus return is coming soon.

Examples Greg Laurie gave included "the emergence of China as a superpower," "the lessening of the United States as a superpower," "the repeated threats against Israel spoken of in the Bible," and "statements from our world leaders about a potential Armageddon" because of the war in Ukraine.

I would add to this the explosion of technology, especially artificial intelligence, increasing government overreach in our lives, where the government is seeking to gain more and more control of what happens to us, Greg Laurie said in his July sermon.

I would also add the dramatic increase of drug use decimating American cities, international financial instability, mass shootings, the disintegration of the family, the calculated attacks against the family. The Bible says, In the last days, there will be satanically energized times and things will go from bad to worse."
NBC News coverage links Christian beliefs to shopkeeper's murder over pride flag Report from network's LGBT unit quotes gunman's post about 'accepting Jesus Christ in their hearts'

A report from the LGBT-focused division of NBC News appeared to link accepting Jesus and criticism of pride propaganda to the murder of a California shopkeeper who was known as an LGBT ally.

In its lengthy coverage of the fatal shooting of California business owner Laura Ann Carleton, NBC OUT, which features stories and other content about LGBT-identified individuals, cited the stated religious beliefs of gunman Travis Ikeguchi, specifically several anti-LGBT sentiments he expressed on social media.

According to police, Ikeguchi, 27, was killed Aug. 18 following a shooting at the Mag Pi clothing store in Cedar Glen just east of Lake Arrowhead, where investigators say Ikeguchi made several disparaging remarks about a rainbow flag that stood outside the store before shooting the 66-year-old Carleton, who was a mother of nine and did not publicly identify as LGBT.

A short while later, San Bernardino County Sheriffs deputies caught up with Ikeguchi, who was shot and killed by authorities who said he was armed with a handgun.

Carleton died at the scene. She is survived by her husband of 28 years, Bort Carleton, and nine children.

Online tributes remembered her as a pillar in her community and an immovable force in her values for equality, love, and justice.

Her daughter, Ari, shared an image of her mother along with a caption that said Carleton was murdered over a pride flag that she proudly hung on her storefront."

Make no mistake, this was a hate crime," she said. "Her flags had been torn down before and she always responded by putting up a bigger one.

After authorities identified Carletons killer, a number of corporate media outlets identified Ikeguchi as a Christian who publicly denounced the pride flag. An image of Ikeguchi wearing a cross necklace was also shared on social media.

In its coverage of the shooting, NBC News specifically cited Ikeguchis religious views on abortion and homosexuality, including citing a now-deleted X account which said, LGBT people need to stop asking the world for acceptance, instead they should start accepting Jesus Christ in their hearts and turn away from their false sexual identity that the devil deceived them to be.

NBC News Matt Lavietes noted in the networks coverage that the pride rainbow  a biblical symbol given by God after the Flood in Genesis 9 which was appropriated by the gay community in the 1970s  has been increasingly smeared by conservative media and right-wing online personalities like The Daily Wires Matt Walsh and Chaya Raichik, who runs the influencer account LibsOfTikTok.

Lavietes wrote, The far right has repeatedly linked the flag to the decades-old trope that links gay and transgender people to child abusers who want to groom or sexualize children, a trope that has recently had a resurgence.

The NBC reporter quoted LGBT advocate Alejandra Caraballo  who mockingly thanked God on the day of the Nashville Christian school shooting  as saying both Walsh and Raichik have blood on their hands for inciting violence against the community. Last year, Caraballo also called for U.S. Supreme Court justices to be accosted and to never have a peaceful moment in public again following the Dobbs decision.

Walsh later accused the reporter  whom he referred to as a gutless smear merchant  of baselessly blaming [Walsh] for violence, while Raichik told NBC News, "Why are you comparing anyone who criticizes the progress pride flag being shoved down the throats of children, to a violent murderer?"

Notably, Lavietes  who is listed as a contributor to the World Economic Forum  is the same NBC News reporter who, just days after six people, including three children, were murdered at The Covenant School by a trans-identified woman, lamented the fear trans-identified people were experiencing in the wake of the shooting.

After claiming that conservatives have blamed the shooting on the suspects gender identity, the reporter went on to compare the shooting death of six people with the historic numbers of bills targeting [LGBT] people  in state legislatures across the country.

Earlier this year, NBC News fact-checked a chant by LGBT activists shouting that they were coming for your children as merely lighthearted after readers challenged the accuracy of the network's article.

The headline for the June 27 article from NBC Out, the LGBT-focused brand of NBC News, read: Were Coming For Your Children chant at NYC Drag March elicits outrage, but activists say its taken out of context," with a sub-headline reading, Organizers say the NYC Drag March is meant to be lighthearted and to poke fun at anti-[LGBT] sentiment.

NBCs story claims that the chant originated with an unidentified person at a pride event in New York City.

" ... One voice that is louder than the crowd  its not clear whose, or whether the speaker was a member of the [LGBT] community  is heard saying at least twice, 'Were here, were queer, were coming for your children,'" the article stated.

The story also claimed video footage of the chant was circulated by a right-wing web streamer channel, which the outlet did not identify.
The King's College to lose accreditation by Aug. 31

The Kings College, a prominent Christian liberal arts college in New York City, is expected to lose its accreditation by the end of August.

The Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE) announced Friday that King's College, which had already opted to cancel its fall semester classes, had failed to fill out the "required substantive change request for institutional closure."

MSCHE went on to note that King's College had "failed to update public disclosures pursuant to Commission policy and procedures" and "failed to meet its membership responsibilities," and so as a result, "accreditation will cease on August 31, 2023."

The college, which severed its partnership with Primacorp, a Canadian investment company, in April, has been seeking a strategic alliance since January, according to Empire State Tribune.

In July, the college's board of trustees announced that, due to financial issues, they would not be holding classes in the fall semester, though they stressed that they were not planning to close the campus permanently.

"The Board of Trustees and senior administration will continue to navigate the College's next steps and continue to contend for King's future over the coming months," a statement from the board that was emailed to The Christian Post last month read. "The Board is committed to continuing our efforts to pursue strategic alliance opportunities."

"We are also moving forward in the appeal process regarding our accreditation status with the Middle States Commission on Higher Education and are deeply grateful for the steadfast prayer and support of the King's community."

In late July, the MSCHE announced it considers the institution closed and no longer operational. The college plans to appeal the decision, which resulted in a ban on accepting or recruiting new students until the college regains its accredited status.

The college, which had relied on the generosity of billionaires such as Richard DeVos and Bill Hwang, had turned to another billionaire, Peter Chung, for help, Inside Higher Ed reported in March.

Chung provided a $2 million loan to the college and his for-profit education company, Primacorp Ventures, was hired by the college to launch an ambitious online program, noted IHE. However, employees believed the partnership with Chung had exacerbated the colleges financial troubles, with failed efforts including the online expansion.

The colleges online program, which was expected to bring in thousands of students and boost the bottom line, failed to materialize. The colleges deal with Primacorp, which would collect 95% of the online enrollment revenue, had been described as absolutely unheard-of in the OPM (online program management) world.

Despite the dissolution of the agreement with Primacorp, the company remained embedded in the college. Primacorp had the ability to nominate four of the nine trustees on the colleges board, and the college had incurred significant expenses related to the now-defunct online program.

Furthermore, Inside Higher Ed said, the colleges property was secured by a $10 million line of credit provided by Burnaby Investments, which is affiliated with Primacorp.

Michael Gryboski contributed to this article.
Planned Parenthood's RV abortion clinic at Illinois border raises safety concerns, pro-lifers say

Pro-life activists say Planned Parenthood's plans to deploy a mobile abortion clinic at the Illinois border to serve women from neighboring states where abortion is banned or restricted raises safety and ethics concerns.

As The Associated Press reported Monday, the nation's largest abortion provider announced its intention to establish a mobile abortion clinic that will operate in Illinois and travel near the state's borders with Missouri, Kentucky and Tennessee.

All three states have implemented near-total bans on abortion following the U.S. Supreme Court's June 24 decision in Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization, which found that the U.S. Constitution doesn't contain a right to abortion.

The Dobbs decision gave states the authority to regulate abortion, reversing the 1973 Roe v. Wade ruling that legalized abortion nationwide. Illinois, unlike many of its neighboring states, is one of the 16 states that has codified the right to abortion into state law.

The RV that will serve as the mobile clinic is 37 feet long and will include two exam rooms, a lab and a waiting room. The mobile clinic plans to offer chemical abortions up to 11 weeks gestation and begin conducting surgical abortions after the first few months.

Yamelsie Rodriguez, president and CEO of Planned Parenthood of the St. Louis Region and Southwest Missouri, told the AP that the RV is expected to arrive by the end of the month and be operational by the end of the year.

According to Rodriguez, wait times at her abortion facility along the Missouri-Illinois border have gone from an average of four days to two and a half weeks since the court's ruling.

The clinic, located in Fairview Heights, Illinois, has reportedly seen a 30% increase in abortion patients, with the number of women from outside Missouri and Illinois increasing by more than 340%.

Dr. Colleen McNicholas, chief medical officer for Planned Parenthood's St. Louis office, described the mobile abortion clinic as "a way to reduce travel times and distances in order to meet patients at the Illinois border."

Planned Parenthood did not immediately respond to The Christian Post's request for comment.

In their interview with AP, McNicholas and Rodriguez declined to discuss safety and security measures for the mobile clinics, which some pro-lifers find revealing.

"If they don't feel confident in expressing the safety and reliability of this option, then why should women feel comfortable going to them for such intimate medical help?" asked Emma Waters, a research associate in the Richard and Helen DeVos Center for Life, Religion, and Family at the conservative think tank The Heritage Foundation.

In an interview with CP, Waters questioned what these mobile clinics will do if a woman experiences complications after taking the abortion pill, but the RV has moved to another location by the time the woman realizes something is wrong.

"So you're giving something to women in a state where it's legal, technically, but then you're sending them back to a place where they're not going to know the adequate resources they need should something go wrong, and there's a high likelihood that something can go wrong," Waters said.

The research associate voiced concerns about whether the mobile abortion clinics can screen women for ectopic pregnancies or other pregnancy complications before administering the abortion pill.

"Chemical abortions are four times more dangerous than surgical abortions," she asserted, likely referring to a 2015 study titled "Incidence of Emergency Room Department Visits and Complications After Abortion."

The study used data from 2009 and 2010 to assess the abortion complication rate for California women who had abortions through Medicaid and those treated at the emergency room instead of the clinic.

Researchers found that the complication rate was 5.2% for women who took the abortion pill compared to 1.3% for women who had a first-trimester surgical abortion. The major complication rate for the abortion pill was .31% in contrast to .16% for first-trimester surgical abortions.

"So not only are these chop shops on wheels traveling close to state lines and trying to intercept vulnerable and scared women, but they're also administering a form of abortion that is far more dangerous than the traditional form," Waters said.

She contends that Planned Parenthood is "taking abortion on demand to a whole new level."

"This is dehumanizing for women and for the preborn children whose lives they're taking," she stated. "It's a complete disrespect for the laws and the convictions of other states who have voted to protect life in the womb."

Waters says there seems to be a double standard when it comes to abortion, suggesting that no parent would condone their daughter undergoing a dental procedure or an ovarian cyst removal in an RV.

"It doesn't seem like a legitimate medical option to practice something so intimate and so vulnerable as an abortion in an RV," Waters said. "There's something unsettling about such a transient, largely low-tech option that just feels very sleazy and wrong."

Andrea Trudden, vice president of communications and marketing for Heartbeat International, one of the largest networks of pregnancy resource centers worldwide, expressed similar concerns. In a Tuesday statement to CP, she accused the abortion organization of putting profit over women's safety.

"In essence, Planned Parenthood's mobile unit can now enter a community, provide chemical and surgical abortions, and simply drive away, leaving patients alone to deal with the recovery and any complications that may arise," she wrote. "How is that 'care'?"

"Every woman deserves compassion when facing an unexpected pregnancy," Trudden proclaimed. "Women do not need abortion to lead a fulfilling life."

Trudden stressed that crisis pregnancy organizations like hers "provide real care and support as women navigate a very difficult time."

Earlier this month, Planned Parenthood released its 2020-2021 annual report, showing that the organization's affiliates conducted 383,460 abortions in the fiscal year ending on June 30, 2021. The figure is an 8% increase from the 354,871 abortions documented in its 2019-2020 report.

In addition, Planned Parenthood reported receiving over $633 million in "Government Health Services Reimbursements & Grants" that same year. This figure constitutes more than a third of Planned Parenthood's total revenue.
1K Decisions For Christ On Graham Tour, California Schools' Webinar With Trans Advocates, Troubled Woman Offered Suicide At Canadian Hospital

link to download the audio instead. link to download the audio instead. 06:28 06:28

Top headlines for Tuesday, August 29, 2023

In today's episode, we take a look at Franklin Graham's heartening event in London, where his gospel message spurred many to make decisions for Christ. Later, we dissect a Californian school district's offer to financially reward teachers who attended a controversial webinar focusing on cross-sex hormone treatments and surgeries for gender dysphoric children. Finally, we explore a disturbing report about a Canadian woman seeking psychiatric help, only to be guided towards the country's medical assistance in dying program.

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Top headlines for Tuesday, August 29, 2023

In today's episode, we take a look at Franklin Graham's heartening event in London, where his gospel message spurred many to make decisions for Christ. Later, we dissect a Californian school district's offer to financially reward teachers who attended a controversial webinar focusing on cross-sex hormone treatments and surgeries for gender dysphoric children. Finally, we explore a disturbing report about a Canadian woman seeking psychiatric help, only to be guided towards the country's medical assistance in dying program.
Official poster for World Cities Summit Mayors Forum 2023 / Courtesy of Seoul Metropolitan Government



Seoul Smart City Prize is key event of summit at DDP



By Ko Dong-hwan



Mayors and business leaders from around the world will gather in Seoul in September for a global summit to discuss creating more livable and sustainable cities.



The World Cities Summit Mayors Forum 2023, slated for September 24 to 26 at Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP), will feature mayors and vice mayors from 48 cities across 33 countries, such as Wellington, New Zealand Mayor Tory Whanau and Taipei, Taiwan Mayor Wayne Chiang Wan-an, according to the Seoul Metropolitan Government.



Business leaders and representatives of international organizations, including the UN Habitat and Metropolis, are also among the list of some 200 guests invited to the forum.



Held under the slogan, "Liveable and Sustainable Cities, Forging an Inclusive and Resilient Future," the annual forum focuses on four main areas: creating an inclusive society, preserving cultural heritage, moving towards carbon neutrality and enhancing climate resilience, as well as fostering innovation and creativity.



Each focus area will be the subject of two to three presentations featuring exemplary cases from different cities. These details were disclosed by the International Cooperation Division, a part of the city government's Economic Policy Office.



Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon, representing the host city, will share how his city government has been carrying out related policies, including ones that award greater subsidies to low-income city residents and offer better access to education for students from poor families. The policies are part of the mayor's premier slogan, "going together with the socially neglected."





Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon, center, speaks during World Cities Summit 2022 at Sands Expo and Convention Center in Singapore held from July 31 to Aug. 3. Courtesy of Seoul Metropolitan Government
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Construction on a 58-unit youth transitional housing building is expected to begin at the Junot Avenue site next month. Programming will be delivered by the Thunder Bay Indigenous Friendship Centre, Metis Nation of Ontario and the Ontario Native Womens Association. The MNOs director of housing Cindi Rye, left, president Margaret Froh, second from left, and supervisor of youth outreach, housing and infrastructure Jacklyn Raynard, right, join ONWAs senior director of community development Tina Bobinski, centre, and the Thunder Bay Indigenous Friendship Centres director of housing Katie Bortolin at the project site on Monday after funding was announced from the province.
gettyimagesbank



By Lee Hae-rin



Kim Myung-jin, 31, an office worker who has set a date to get married next year, got a rude shock on more than one occasion upon learning how expensive wedding-related services are in Korea as she began preparing for the big day.



"The scale of costs came to me as surprisingly high. Costs of services start from some millions and can go up to tens of millions won and that's just how it seems to go here (in the wedding market)," Kim told The Korea Times, adding that such a large sum of money doesn't even feel real yet and that she understands other couples' choice to either simplify their plans or altogether give up on having a wedding due to economic reasons.



Jeon Sang-a, another 31-year-old office worker who settled in Suwon, Gyeonggi Province, after getting married last September, echoed Kim's view on the economic burden of marriage. She and her husband did everything within their capacity to raise wedding money, using up years-long savings, getting help from parents, running a joint bank account for wedding expenses and buying household goods in installments.



"The moment we decided to get married, we realized everything  the ceremony, housing and home furnishings  is about money, and it's quite a lot. The financial burden is real for every couple, apart from how much they love each other," Jeon said.



Kim and Jeon's stories explain the latest report by Statistics Korea that only about one out of three young Koreans have a positive perception of marriage, and one out of three unmarried Koreans cite a lack of money as a reason for not getting married.



Other statistics also show that wedding costs in Korea are particularly high.



As of last year, a wedding in Korea cost around 47.2 million won ($35,709), according to local matchmaking agency Duo's survey of 1,000 newlywed people. The figure included expenses for home furnishings (14.7 million won), venue hire (9.7 million won), wedding presents exchanged between families (7.17 million won), honeymoon (3.97 million won) and wedding package consisting of photo shoot, dress rental, hair styling and make-up (3 million won).



It is more expensive than those of other countries like the U.K. ($23,236), according to their country's national wedding survey, and the U.S. ($30,000), according to wedding planning website, The Knot.



However, the actual funds Korean couples feel they need for marriage is much higher  around 287 million won  as the expense of getting married here conventionally includes housing costs.



Housing, taking the largest portion of wedding expenses at 83.6 percent, stands at around 240 million won in average, the survey said. The figure differs by region, from 134 million won in Gangwon Province to around 324 million won in Seoul.



Naturally, an overwhelming 92.7 percent of the survey's respondents positively viewed holding a small wedding, citing "cost reduction" as the main reason. The survey estimates a small wedding, with fewer guests and conventional ceremonial elements omitted, to cost around 6.29 million won, which is around two thirds of the average expense.



However, even that option is less viable for many than it may seem.



Some 35 percent of the survey's respondents said they can't simplify their wedding plans due to their parents' expectations. Other top reasons were society's conventional wedding customs (31.2 percent), a couple's willingness to follow social norms and procedures (18.7 percent) and concerns over how others will think of them (13 percent).


Self-service IT solutions have cemented their place in the enterprise as a means for enabling employees to resolve IT issues on their own rather than contacting an IT representative. Yet as self-service technology advances and matures, many IT leaders are discovering that the concept is capable of evolving into something far more flexible and powerful than a basic help desk replacement.

Today, self-service IT solutions, both purchased and homegrown, target a wide range of activities, from traditional end-user support, to spinning up company-sanctioned cloud instances for new projects and experiments, to data access and analysis on tap. When combined with human innovation and artificial intelligence, such self-service IT platforms can become faithful assistants, offering support, insights, and solutions in an almost endless array of areas.

Following are a number of developments that are inspiring IT leaders to increasingly embrace self-service as an IT delivery model, as well as tips for safely leveraging the model as a means for helping your organization work faster, smarter, and better.

1. Its growing smarter

Self-service IT is typically deployed to supply fast answers to simple questions, particularly when human support is unavailable. Solutions are generally served up from a base of well-curated content. Now, however, artificial intelligence is poised to take self-service advice and insights to a new level.

By injecting AI into the technology, self-service IT platforms can now leverage the relevant information they collect to make suggestions that are both highly accurate and specifically tailored to its users precise needs.

As organizations scale and transform digitally, fast and effective self-learning IT solutions will be essential when building a modern employee experience that propels organization growth, says Gary Aliff, acting-CIO and vice president at SaaS product developer Zendesk.
South Korea's unification ministry spokesman Koo Byoung-sam speaks during a briefing at the government complex in Seoul, Aug. 28. Yonhap



South Korea's unification ministry said Tuesday it requested a 27.9 percent decrease in its budget for cooperative projects with North Korea next year amid frosty inter-Korean relations and the government's belt-tightening stance.



The ministry said it proposed 874.2 billion won ($660.5 million) for next year's budget for the Inter-Korean Cooperation Fund, down 338.3 billion won from this year's spending. It marked an unprecedentedly sharp cut in the budget for the cooperation fund.



The reduction came as the ministry proposed a 42.3 percent drop in spending for inter-Korean economic projects, such as its support for the now-shattered Kaesong Industrial Complex in the North's namesake border city.



The ministry earmarked 262.4 billion won next year for economic cooperation projects with the North, compared with this year's budget of 454.9 billion won.



The requested budget for humanitarian assistance was set at 589.6 billion won for 2024, down 19.2 percent from this year. But the share of such spending will account for the largest portion at 67.6 percent of the total proposed budget for the cooperation fund.






Developing new products and services that will wow customers is a full-time commitmentespecially in a fast-paced digital world. Companies providing financial services are under constant pressure from the threat of agile fintechs and ever-changing customer expectations. To stay ahead, they need to offer value, self-service and apps that engage and inspire customers. Building best-in-class cloud services comes down to giving developers a greater choice of how and where they build new apps. While multi-cloud promises limitless opportunities, without proper management, costs and complexity can escalate quickly.

Discovery Holdings has invested in VMware technology to get a single view of its multi-cloud environment, standardizing management tools and accelerating the delivery of exciting new developments that have a real impact on customer wellbeing.

South African insurance provider, Discovery Holdings, doesnt just protect people. It actively encourages customers to make healthier decisions to promote wellness. Its Vitality program rewards healthy behavior with points that customers collect over a year to unlock health, lifestyle and leisure benefits.

And thats just one of its ground-breaking products. Discovery Holdings also offers financial services such as online and investment banking, medical aid, car and home insurance, and travel services to customers worldwide. Some of the companys most innovative developments include a digital weight loss assistant, an app to book discounted flights and an online portal to access and manage medical plans.

In short, a lot is happening and its no different behind the scenes. The company was quick to kick off its cloud journey in 2012, recognizing the need to scale seamlessly, get new services to market quickly and give staff and customers a great digital experience.

Today, its cloud operations span four hyperscalers and it has on-premises data centers across 16 regions. To simplify managing this multi-cloud environment, Discovery Holdings rolled out VMware Aria Cost powered by CloudHealth and VMware Aria Hub powered by VMware Aria Graph. In the future, it plans to extend this to get that all-important single view across the entire estate.

Centralizing cloud management on one platform

The platform services team at Discovery Holdings is responsible for providing seamless cloud services to internal customers, helping them choose the right cloud or SaaS solution for their workloads.

Managing disparate environments is complicated. They all come with their own challenges. Its difficult to get a clear view of costs when youre dealing with operational expenditure from data centers and capital expenditure across four different clouds. Theres no common interface or language and each platform captures different metrics, explains Johan Marais, senior platform services manager at Discovery Holdings. VMware Aria Cost gives us a standard set of tools for greater visibility and control over costs, performance, configuration, deployment and monitoring right across our multi-cloud environment.

The company also needed a solution that would grow alongside its ambitions, including having the flexibility to easily onboard new cloud providers in the future. Implementing VMware Aria Cost powered by CloudHealth was a game changer in our multi-cloud strategy, says Marais.

Between 2018 and 2019, our AWS cloud investment doubled while more effective management and waste reduction led to a 40 percent decrease in costs.

VMware has been instrumental in running our multi-cloud environment efficiently for more than 10 years. We recently rolled out VMware Aria Automation for Secure Clouds to speed up deployment across multiple clouds and give internal customers self-service access to cloud accounts and workloads, says Marais. VMware Aria Automation gives us real-time visibility of cloud security postures and we can self-remediate any issues, which reduces the risk of a fault causing an outage.

Having a single view of all cloud activity makes it quick and easy to identify these issues on a global scale. Once identified, theyre ranked in order of risk so the team can focus on the most critical incidents first.

With VMware Aria Cost, were no longer hunting for information across a multi-territory environment. For the first time, its all there at the click of a button, Marais explains.

Discovery Holdings has also recently adopted VMware Aria Hub powered by VMware Aria Graph to gain comprehensive visibility into two of its public clouds with powerful insights into security and cost. In the future, the team will use it across all the companys cloud environments. Staff are excited to use the advanced search which harnesses powerful GraphQL query language to find information quickly at the tap of a button and is predicted to save time and improve the user experience.

Cost-effective and efficient

Discovery Holdings has mastered managing a multi-cloud environment without complexity and opened up a world of opportunities when it comes to developing new products or services.

VMware also supports the companys shift to DevOps and enables it to maximize internal resources and do more with a small team.

Discovery Holdings estimates that without the automation VMware provides, it would need to hire two additional full-time staff to manage reporting and security management.

Keeping pace with rapid digital innovation isnt easy. VMware empowers us to respond quickly and stay in control, says Marais. Our journey has been a great success so far, and thats down to a great team of curious people eager to learn more about multi-cloud and giving them the right tools for the job.

To learn about our portfolio of services for building, running, managing and securing applications across multiple clouds, visit VMware Cross-Cloud services.

About the Author

Giulia Alessio, Senior Manager, Global Customer Advocacy has sound experience in global marketing and is responsible for creating and amplifying customer stories around the world, giving a voice to our most valued customer perspectives.
Africa is undergoing a remarkable transformation, rebuilding the foundations of its economy with new value-creating digital infrastructure.

The World Bank has been coordinating a Digital Economy Initiative for Africa which aims to ensure that every individual, business, and government in Africa is digitally enabled by 2030.

These efforts are clearly working. Africas digital economy and tech ecosystem is experiencing exponential growth. A report from non-profit Endeavor predicts that the market size of Africas digital economy could reach $712 billion by 2050, fuelled by the nations young population, rising smartphone adoption, and increasing internet penetration.

Africas digital economy, already valued at $115 billion, is still in a nascent phase, with only 33% of the population using the internet. However, Endeavors analysis shows rapid growth. Africas GDP is expanding at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4%, comparing favourably to Europe and Latin Americas 1.7%. The population is simultaneously becoming much more prosperous, with consumer spending growing at 9.4% CAGR.

African developers are creating more open-source repositories on the Github software engineering marketplace than any other continent globally, and investment in African start-ups is growing twice as fast as other global markets.

Another statistic demonstrates the scale of change: according to the United Nations, Africa is the fastest urbanising continent in the world, forecast to hit 60% by 2050.

This statistic underpins a tremendous demand for infrastructure needed to supercharge economic growth.

Africa has the natural advantage that largely, it is not saddled with expensive legacy IT systems. Rather, it has a green field IT landscape open to taking advantage of the very latest technological advancements and directly adopting innovations such as mobile payments, green energy, and global online commerce.

Africa is set to shift from a role of passive participant working for others to active leadership, creating more value and sharing a greater part of the benefits in the digital revolution.

The technology and people enabling Africas transformation

At Huawei, we strongly support Africas digitalization. We have a comprehensive strategy to help the continent unleash its digital potential, with three major programs of work:

New Infrastructure: this involves Huawei building a comprehensive, high-speed, and reliable network with a future-oriented cloud platform boasting immense computing power and based around sustainable energy.

New Model: Huawei champions the digital development and prosperity of each industry, encouraging and support ecosystem partners to innovate and start businesses on digital platforms. This initiative will drive economic growth and job creation in Africa.

New Talent & Ecosystem: Huaweis approach to building a sustainable and digitally competent workforce in the continent includes education, equipping students with the latest technologies, programs aimed at upskilling the youth and support the burgeoning digital startups in Africa.

A bright sky: powering rural Cameroon with solar energy

Digital infrastructure transformation is rapidly benefiting Africa. Talaat Moustafa Group (TMG) Holding, the areas largest community real estate developer and a major proponent of smart cities, has deployed one of the worlds most advanced internet infrastructures using Huaweis Fibre To The Office (FTTO) solution.

Huawei has provided the community with highly reliable devices and simplified operation and management, enabling smart features such as lighting, irrigation systems, and waste management.

Meanwhile, Rural Cameroon had adopted the Huawei Microgrid Solar Solution, successfully powering the region sustainably, where traditional electrification has been slow.

This initiative has brought light and reliable power to more than 40,000 households in over 350 townships, pushing the boundaries of inclusivity and environmental sustainability.

These tangible changes demonstrate the transformative potential of new infrastructure and models, turning Huaweis vision into a reality.

Empowering African economies through innovation

Huaweis vision is not limited to providing infrastructure; we have a major focus on helping Africas companies transform their business processes to take advantage of the latest efficient technologies.

Huaweis support of Algerias oilfields production is one example: we helped Sonatrach, an Algerian oil company, to implement a digital transformation that solved problems it was having with inefficient legacy IT systems, resource silos, and information blockades.

Huawei provided our Cloud Stack (HCS) and innovative service platforms combined with big data services.

Huaweis partnership with Cote dIvoire also significantly improved education through the deployment of our All-Scenario Intelligent Campus Solution which improved access to quality education and opened a window to the world for every child.

Huaweis digital vision for Africa

Huawei is nurturing a thriving digital ecosystem that resonates with Africas unique needs. For example, our mobile money system has been deployed in more than 20 countries, including Ethiopia and Congo-Kinshasa. This has democratised access to digital financial services, enabling over 400 million users in emerging markets to be included in the digital economy. This single system accounts for approximately 30% of registered mobile payment accounts in emerging markets.

Ethiopia Telecom has also transformed itself into a fully-fledged digital service provider by implementing a national digital transformation cloud platform. Over 34 million people are on the platform, allowing them to participate in an economy where technology and innovation take center stage.

From little things big things grow: investing in education

Huawei recognises that people are equally important to technology in building a vibrant digital economy.

We believe that the continents future lies in its younger generation, so we are offering programs aimed at upskilling young people with digital skills needed to excel and advance in a digital global economy.

Huawei is also providing extensive support to digital startups in Africa, including policy, facility, and funding support, aimed at creating a conducive environment for these startups to innovate, grow, and contribute to the continents digital transformation.

Overall, Huawei is committed to fostering a digital talent pool and a thriving tech ecosystem in Africa, which we believe will help build a strong digital future for the continent.

The future for digital Africa is clear and extremely promising. Huawei stands ready to provide our technology and resources to support this transition. Huawei shall always be persistent, open to collaborate, and pursuing excellence to help the Africa Continent create more value and share more benefits to win in the next decades.

Click here for more information about Huaweis intelligent solutions.

About Colin Hu

Colin Hu is the President of Enterprise & Cloud of Huawei Northern Africa. Mr. Hu has a strong technical background and more than 12 years of experience in senior management, leading information and communication technology (ICT), and digital transformation of the industry and its ecosystem.
IBM is an iconic American technology brand. Since the earliest days of the computer industryfrom the development of mainframes through the advent of disk drivesinto the 21st century and the emergence of the metaverse, IBM has been at the forefront of innovation.

Hear from IBM on the unique solutions that allow customers to take advantage of the hybrid world and more on VMwares Partner Executive Edge.

Today, IBM is a global leader in hybrid cloud and AI, drawing from its vast technical resources and collaborative spirit to help organizations around the world accelerate their digital transformations and solve their most pressing business challenges. Central to IBMs business model is leveraging ecosystem partnerships, such as the one between IBM and VMware.

Brendan Kinkade, vice president of technology and hybrid cloud partnerships for IBM, says, IBM and VMware have been partners for several decades, and we have a shared vision of what it takes to address our clients needs. Weve been able to jointly develop new, innovative solutions that help clients accelerate their own innovation and deliver better solutions to their customers.

Kinkade observes that organizations are being driven toward digital transformation faster than ever before. In many cases this means adopting a hybrid, multi-cloud environment on which to run their businesses with greater efficiency, agility, and resilience. These organizations turn to IBM and VMware to help them make the best cloud-smart decisions along their journey that will deliver optimal results and keep their business assets secure.

We know hybrid environments are here to stay, Kinkade acknowledges. Together, IBM and VMware have come up with some unique solutions that allow customers to take advantage of the opportunities a hybrid world has to offer.

Delivering a cloud experience with on-premises-like control

The ability to manage operations across multiple clouds is essential for many global organizations. Through the VMware cloud-smart ecosystem, IBM can multiply its capabilities to ensure each client workload lands on the right cloud for its respective business case. At the same time, every decision must be made with security in mind.

Kinkade notes, Security is paramount in the mind of any client as theyre going through their transformation journey and adopting multiple clouds. We need to make sure their data is secure, but also that they have observability across their environment, and the ability to apply new tools like artificial intelligence that can extract value from data to drive growth for the business.

This need is especially critical in regulated industries, such as financial services, healthcare, and the public sector. In response, IBM and VMware have expanded their relationship, with IBM Consulting now a VMware Global System Integrator (GSI), enabling the two companies to deliver new jointly developed solutions that help clients in regulated industries achieve their multi-cloud goals while reducing complexity and risk. A prime result of this collaboration is IBM Cloud for VMware Solutions.

Through deep engineering collaboration, IBM and VMware are bringing out new solutions focused on regulated industries, Kinkade says. These clients need data protection; they need continuity between their on-premises environment and the cloud. With IBM Cloud for VMware Solutions, their data is encrypted with the same level of security and compliance as they would have on-premises but with a public-cloud-like experience. Together, IBM and VMware are able to help our clients in regulated industries modernize their environments much more rapidly.

In one case, the two companies collaborated to help a major financial services institution completely transform its business. The company is now moving its financial services workloads to the IBM Cloud and using VMware solutions to improve business efficiencies and better serve its customers. Kinkade points out, The solution includes an ecosystem of ISVs who run in the IBM Cloud, the foundation of which is VMware infrastructure. Were helping the bank reduce third- and fourth-party risk and opening the door to future innovation that accelerates time-to-market of new solutions in this highly competitive space.

Ongoing investment in collaborative innovation

Understanding that clients require different cloud solutions to meet the full scope of their diverse business needs, IBM has also partnered with VMware to securely bring the public cloud experience on premises with IBM Cloud Satellite for VMware. This innovative solution enables clients to run VMware workloads anywhere with consistency and assured security.

With IBM Cloud Satellite for VMware, we can now deploy a secure, open, innovative cloud platform in the clients data center, Kinkade explains. One of our key differentiators is we can deliver the solution as-a-service, managed by IBM, or provide the tools for the client to manage the environment with their own resources. We give them the flexibility to do either or both through IBM Cloud Satellite for VMware.

In partnership, IBM and VMware are continually expanding their joint innovation capabilities, most recently with a new agreement to expand the VMware and IBM Joint Innovation Fund. This agreement fuels a co-development engine for bringing new solutions to market. In addition to supporting joint engineering resources, the fund also brings together sales, marketing, and enablement capabilities from both companies to solve the ever-evolving needs of our joint customers around the world.

Kinkade points out that the new VMware Partner Connect program offers additional value to the relationship. The go-to-market resources available through VMware Partner Connect are very valuable to IBM. The program helps fund some of our marketing activities and provides the technical assistance we need in our center of excellence to support our VMware workloads.

In fact, IBM is one of the largest operators of VMware workloads in the world, and thousands of organizations have benefited from this experience. We have deep expertise around migrating, modernizing, and managing applications that we can provide clients to fill their gaps in skills and resources, Kinkade says. Whether its VMware Tanzu in the IBM Cloud or Red Hat OpenShift running on vSphere, IBM and VMware bring together our complementary technologies to deliver the value our clients are looking for.

Kinkade concludes, As a partner, Im excited about VMwares multi-cloud roadmap because it gives clients the options they will need. We live in a multi-cloud world, and the partnership between IBM and VMware will enable our joint clients to achieve their digital transformation goals across the clouds that make the most sense for their businessrapidly and securely.

Next Steps

To discover more about VMware and IBMs partnership, listen to our VMware Partnership Perspectives podcast episode with Kate Woolley, General Manager of IBMs Ecosystem.

Visit the IBM Cloud for VMware Solutions page to learn more about migrating workloads to IBM Cloud using existing VMware investments, processes, and tools.

Hear from IBM on the unique solutions that allow customers to take advantage of the hybrid world and more on VMwares Partner Executive Edge.
TeraSkys customer dedication earns them 7th VMware Award in 5 years in the 2023 VMware Partner Achievement Awards

Many businesses continue to face challenges as they look to digitally transform how they operate and serve customers. With on-premises systems and private clouds often relying on outdatedor soon-to-be-outdated toolscompanies need more agile, future-proof solutions. For TeraSky, helping businesses build the environments they need for success today and tomorrow is their specialty.

Since 2010, TeraSky has provided end-to-end solutions to enable customers to handle data center modernization and hybrid and multi-cloud implementation. TeraSky offers a myriad of services, including software-defined data center creation and maintenance, developer support and platform engineering, transitioning from on-premises installations to multi-cloud, and migration from large, legacy applications to microservices. We aim to be the most trusted partner over a customers entire lifecycle, helping them deal with tough modernization challenges, says Ofir Abekasis, TeraSkys CEO.

An award-winning approach to digital transformation

TeraSkys dedication to customer success and providing high-value results earned them the Partner Value award for EMEA in the 2023 VMware Partner Achievement Awards. We are honored to accept this award. This is TeraSkys seventh VMware award in five years and a testament to our commitment to helping organizations adapt, innovate, and succeed in todays rapidly evolving digital landscape, says Abekasis. We are thrilled to continue our VMware partnership and look forward to driving even more value for our customers in the years to come.

TeraSky has repeatedly demonstrated their expertise in creating value for customers and successful project implementation, along with a proven mastery of VMware solutions. Through their efforts, theyve provided customers with the environments necessary to succeed and create better business alignment, driven by new insights that improve decision-making all around.

Unifying the experience of a global workforce

An example of TeraSkys prowess is a digital transformation project they did for a mutual customer of VMware and TeraSky, Cellebrite. For over 24 years, Cellebrite has provided a digital intelligence investigation platform and support services to law enforcement and government agencies.

With offices in 12 locations worldwide and more than 1,000 workers, the company was facing the challenges that come from success and growth. First, they transitioned to a SaaS business model while tripling their workforceall during the pandemic. The rapid expansion and needed infrastructure upgrades meant the employee experience was not at the high level Cellebrite wanted in every location. Additionally, Cellebrite wanted to create a more flexible and supportive operational structure to facilitate different deployments across their application ecosystem.

To do this, Cellebrite needed a single pane of glass from which they could see everything, no matter if an application ran in the data center or in the cloud. This visibility would also help provide a seamless user experience for all employees, from the developers and engineers to IT, while allowing for easier application consumption and management.

VMware vRealize Suite Solutions was the answer. While the company was already using VMware vSphere, they wanted to augment their current capabilities and make better use of the resources available to them. TeraSky enabled Cellebrite to use VMware Aria Automation and VMware Aria Operation combined with a partial migration to a VMware cloud based on AWS, which has optimized the companys infrastructure and workflows. This provided the flexibility and agility Cellebrite needed to support their customers while streamlining day-to-day operations and monitoring.

After transitioning to the new architecture, Cellebrite was able to offer more customized services to each customer, while reducing costs and increasing optimization across the board, even allowing employees who are not developers to create solutions in just a few days. In addition, with their improved organizational flexibility, the company achieved their savings and optimization goals and also set themselves up for future success by increasing the speed at which they can create new, unique products for their customers.

Watch the Cellebrite customer success video from TeraSky.

Forging future success with Vmware

TeraSky is committed to being a trusted partner across the entire customer lifecycle, offering a comprehensive suite of managed services to greatly simplify their clients IT operations. By taking on each clients day-to-day running and maintenance challenges of complex cloud environments, the VMware partner helps companies realize their modernization goals for today while preparing them for future success.

As part of our managed services, we offer specific solutions for customers utilizing different cloud providers, says Abekasis. VMware Cross-Cloud managed services give companies the freedom and flexibility to get exactly what they need from vendors and partners, enabling them to work with those best positioned to solve their unique challenges.

Were excited to see how VMware Cross-Cloud managed services will continue to set new standards and build an even better partner ecosystem where we can all help customers reach their goals, Abekasis says.

To learn more about award-winning like TeraSky, visit the resources on VMware Partner Executive Edge, or check out our Cloud Smart Strategy whitepaper.
President Yoon Suk Yeol speaks during a Cabinet meeting at the presidential office in Seoul, Aug. 29. Yonhap



President Yoon Suk Yeol vowed Tuesday to stick to a sound fiscal policy, strongly criticizing the preceding Moon Jae-in government for increasing national debts with reckless spending.



Yoon made the remark during a Cabinet meeting, pledging to reject temptations of spending for political purposes, as the government proposed a national budget of 654.4 trillion won ($495 billion) for 2024, the slowest on-year growth since 2005.



"Due to the previous administration's lax fiscal management, the national debts rose by 400 trillion won, and reached over 1,000 trillion won for the first time last year," Yoon said in opening remarks at the Cabinet meeting.



Thanks to his administration's efforts to achieve fiscal soundness, Yoon said the growth of national debts has markedly slowed, and the government will continue to stick to a sound fiscal policy for the sake of external credibility and price stabilization.



"Some people claim the government should boldly release budget ahead of elections," Yoon said. "But expanding spending through government bond issuance would shift the fiscal burdens to future generations, lead to a fall in sovereign ratings and worsen difficulties with business activities and livelihoods."



He said the government has reduced a total of 23 trillion won from last year by cutting budgets previously earmarked for political subsidies and for "cartels with vested interests."



Instead, he said the government will focus support in three key areas: supporting the vulnerable class, strengthening of the government's key functions, such as national security, and investment in new growth engines to create quality jobs.



Additionally, Yoon said the government will provide less-lethal handguns to all police personnel working in the field in the wake of a series of stabbing rampages and violent crimes.



Providing less-lethal handguns is aimed at encouraging the police to use such weapons to tackle crimes, as they are currently reluctant to use ordinary pistols because it could lead to deaths and the officers could be held responsible.



The government also plans to reform police duties to focus more on public safety and adjust budgets accordingly, Yoon added.



On the issue of Japan's release of radioactive water from its Fukushima nuclear power plant, Yoon said the government will increase budgets related to monitoring the safety of local seafood and the country's oceans to approximately 740 billion won. (Yonhap)


Background



Diversity, Equity and Inclusion are core principles at UNDP: we value diversity as an expression of the multiplicity of nations and cultures where we operate, we foster inclusion as a way of ensuring all personnel are empowered to contribute to our mission, and we ensure equity and fairness in all our actions. Taking a leave no one behind approach to our diversity efforts means increasing representation of underserved populations. People who identify as belonging to marginalized or excluded populations are strongly encouraged to apply. Learn more about working at UNDP including our values and inspiring stories.



UNDP does not tolerate sexual exploitation and abuse, any kind of harassment, including sexual harassment, and discrimination. All selected candidates will, therefore, undergo rigorous reference and background checks.



Sustainable management of water resources in accordance with the principle of integrated water management is the priority for Moldova. For further development of water policy and improvement of regulatory framework, the Ministry of Environment (MoE), with the support of its subordinate institutions, is responsible for ensuring ongoing dialogue with neighboring countries on the integrated management of transboundary water resources, with the ultimate goal to ensure amount and quality and quantity of waters needed for both sustainable socio-economic development and healthy environment.

In the process of improvement of national regulatory framework, harmonization of environmental legislation with the provisions of European Union (EU) directives, national environmental protection system faces many constraints, particularly, related to outdated standards, normative acts, capacity of responsible institutions, shortage of qualified staff in the government sectoral institutes, etc.

The importance of integrated management of the Dniester River is indisputable for the Republic of Moldova. It is the largest river in the Republic of Moldova, covering 70% of the country's water consumption needs, thus being considered a strategic surface water resource for both environmental and socio-economic security of the country.

For the joint Moldovan-Ukrainian management of the Dniester River, a topic of major importance for Moldova is the impact of the operation of the Dniester Hydropower Complex (HPC) on the Moldovas territory. In the frameworks of project "Study of social and environmental impact assessment of the Dniester Hydropower Complex" funded by Swedish Embassy and implemented by UNDP in 2018-2021, there was clearly shown its negative impact on the environment downstream.

According to Water Law no. 272/ 2011, river basin district management plans (RBDMP) are being developed for 6-years cycle. It shall be mentioned that the Ukrainian side is also concerned with the development of the Dniester River Basin Management Plan (RBMP) for the years 2025-2030. Important methodological aspects were harmonized between countries experts and institutions, and joint Strategic Action Program had been elaborated with assistance of the GEF funded project. The Strategic Action Program (SAP) is one of the key strategic documents of the Commission on Sustainable Use and Protection of the Dniester River Basin. It is based on the findings of the Transboundary Diagnostic Analysis (TDA) for the Dniester River Basin. Both documents have been developed according to the methodology agreed by the two countries and have been extensively consulted. The documents contribute to the Dniester River basin management planning at the national level, as well as support implementation of international commitments to develop joint plans for the transboundary basins. On March 31, 2021, there was signed a Joint Statement on the approval of the Strategic Action Program for the Dniester River Basin for 2021 between the Ministry of Agriculture, Regional Development and Environment of the Republic of Moldova and the Ministry of Environmental Protection and Natural Resources of Ukraine.

Along with attempts to solve the cross-border aspect of the Dniester River management on the platform of the Dniester Commission, currently, environmental institutions are in an extensive process of functional analysis aimed at streamlining the structure, functions, and capacities in the field of integrated management of water resources.

The strategy of the project Support to the Moldovan authorities for the sustainable management of the Dniester River is to improve environmental and social conditions in the Dniester River Basin District through enhanced management of water resources on the basis of updated regulatory framework, comprehensive and reliable river basin management planning, improved water management institutional capacities and implementation of practical environmental activities that would improve the ecological status of the Dniester River, identified as part of the Dniester Impact Study (2021).

The Project consists of 4 (four) Components as follows:

Component 1. Enhancement of water related regulatory framework.

Component 2. Elaboration of the 2nd Management Plan for the Dniester River Basin District

Component 3. Support provided to Moldovan water management authorities in sustainable management of Dniester River both at national and transboundary/ international levels.

Component 4. Implementation of the on-the-ground activities to improve the current ecological conditions of the Dniester River.

The Overall Objective of the project is to increase the capacity of the Moldovan Government to sustainably manage the Dniester River basin at the national and transboundary levels, including:

To ensure that Moldova has sufficient regulatory framework for the sustainable river management based on the basin wide approach supported by the WFD provisions,

To provide the Moldova Government for comprehensive and realistic Management Plan for the Dniester River Basin developed in compliance with the WFD,

To provide continuous support for enhancement of capacities of national authorities responsible for water management, as well as the Moldovan representatives under joint Moldovan and Ukrainian bodies tasked with cross-border management of the Dniester River,

To improve social, economic, and environmental conditions of the Dniester River.

The Project duration is envisaged between 2022- 2026 with support from SIDA (The Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency).

Duties and Responsibilities



The Project Finance Associate works in close collaboration with the Project team as well as the team in the Country Office (CO) for effective achievement of results, anticipating and contributing to resolving complex project/project-related issues and information delivery. The incumbent is expected to exercise full compliance with UNDP programming, financial, procurement and administrative rules, regulations, policies and strategies, as well as implementation of the effective internal control systems.

The Project Finance Associate in close cooperation with the project team, under the direct guidance and supervision of the Project Manager, will ensure the provision of financial and administrative services of the highest quality and standards to the project team, UNDP Country office, as well as national counterparts and clients. More specifically:

Administrative management:

Pro-actively contribute to day-to-day project implementation and ensure conformity to expected results and project work-plans.

Coordinate short-term consultants.

Assume overall responsibility for the coordination of administrative matters.

Monitor compliance with UNDP standards and ensure quality control of project filing systems and files.

Provide advice to the team on financial and administrative issues.

Financial management:

Monitor budget expenditures and maintain a proper record of approved project budgets and their revisions.

Prepare proposals for budget revisions.

Upon request, prepare and submit expenditure and project budget status reports.

Maintain accurate budget reporting in both UNDP and Donor standard templates.

Prepare other recurring reports as scheduled and special reports as required for budget/financial preparations and audit.

Respond to queries from the UNDP and Donor with respect to financial aspects of the project, liaise with UNDP-appointed and external auditors wherever required.

Act as Alternate for Procurement Associate responsible for the creation of the e-requisition in Atlas.

Undertake other financial and administrative tasks as required.

Competencies

Core Competencies

Achieve Results: LEVEL 1: Plans and monitors own work, pays attention to details, delivers quality work by deadline.

LEVEL 1: Plans and monitors own work, pays attention to details, delivers quality work by deadline. Think Innovatively: LEVEL 1: Open to creative ideas/known risks, is pragmatic problem solver, makes improvements.

LEVEL 1: Open to creative ideas/known risks, is pragmatic problem solver, makes improvements. Learn Continuously: LEVEL 1: Open minded and curious, shares knowledge, learns from mistakes, asks for feedback.

LEVEL 1: Open minded and curious, shares knowledge, learns from mistakes, asks for feedback. Adapt with Agility: LEVEL 1: Adapts to change, constructively handles ambiguity/uncertainty, is flexible.

LEVEL 1: Adapts to change, constructively handles ambiguity/uncertainty, is flexible. Act with Determination: LEVEL 1: Shows drive and motivation, able to deliver calmly in face of adversity, confident.

LEVEL 1: Shows drive and motivation, able to deliver calmly in face of adversity, confident. Engage and Partner: LEVEL 1: Demonstrates compassion/understanding towards others, forms positive relationships.

LEVEL 1: Demonstrates compassion/understanding towards others, forms positive relationships. Enable Diversity and Inclusion: LEVEL 1: Appreciate/respect differences, aware of unconscious bias, confront discrimination.

People Management Competencies

UNDP People Management Competencies can be found in the dedicated site.

Cross-Functional & Technical Competencies

Results-based Management Ability to manage projects and projects with a focus at improved performance and demonstrable results.

Resource Management Ability to allocate and use resources in a strategic or tactical way in line with principles of accountability and integrity.

Working with Evidence and Data Ability to inspect, cleanse, transform and model data with the goal of discovering useful information, informing conclusions, and supporting decision-making.

Monitoring Ability\ to provide managers and key stakeholders with regular feedback on the consistency or discrepancy between planned and actual activities and project performance and results.

Budget management Ability to support budgetary aspects of work planning process, drawing and management of team budgets.

Financial reporting and analysis Understands changes in regulatory, legal, and ethical frameworks and standards for financial reporting in the public sector. Ability to extract, evaluate financial data, derive relevant findings, and present them in a meaningful and coherent manner to facilitate effective decision making and performance monitoring. Understands the benefits of integrated reporting, including non-financial resources such as human, social, and intellectual capital, and environmental and governance performance.

Financial analysis Knowledge of evaluating businesses, projects, budgets, and other finance related transactions to determine their performance and suitability.



Required Skills and Experience

Education:

Secondary education

Bachelors degree in finance, accounting, public administration, business administration, economics or a related field would be desired.

Experience:

At least seven (7) years with secondary education or four (4) years with Bachelors degree of complex experience in administrative work, financial management, budget development, accounting, economics, or other substantive area is required.

Previous experience in development assistance or related work for a donor organization, consulting company, or NGO.

Previous experience in similar positions with UNDP is an advantage.

Experience in the usage of computers and office software packages (MS Word, Excel, etc) and advanced knowledge of spreadsheet and database packages, experience in handling web-based management systems.

Required Skills:

Displays cultural, gender, religion, race, nationality, age sensitivity and adaptability.

Treats peers fairly by maintaining consistent values, inspiring trust and confidence through personal credibility.

Accepts responsibility and accountability for the quality of the outcome of his/her decisions.

A proactive approach to problem-solving.

Ability to prepare accurate reports and other documents.

Ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously and ability to prioritize.

Desired Skills:

Understands more advanced aspects of primary area of specialization as well as the fundamental concepts of related disciplines.

Serves as internal consultant in the area of expertise and shares knowledge with staff.

Demonstrates comprehensive knowledge of information technology and applies it in work assignments.

Focuses on result for the client and responds positively to feedback.

Ability to achieve results and meet strict deadlines in an effective manner, maintaining a high quality standard throughout.

Consistently approaches work with energy and a positive, constructive attitude.

Tolerates conditions of stress, uncertainty or ambiguity and continues to maintain a positive outlook and to work productively.

Languages:

Fluency in oral and written English, Romanian and Russian.

Knowledge of one or more minority languages relevant for Moldova, including Romani, Gagauzian, Bulgarian, Ukrainian and sign language, is an asset.

Professional Certificates:

Finance related trainings and/or certification is an advantage. Longlisted candidates may be required to undergo the UNDP Accountancy & Finance Test (AFT).

Institutional Arrangement

Direct supervisor: Project Manager

Under the guidance and direct supervision of the Project Manager, the incumbent contributes to an effective and efficient implementation of project objectives through a range of actions contributing to the design, planning, management and monitoring of activities. The Project Finance Associate applies and promotes the principles of results-based management (RBM), as well as a client-oriented approach consistent with UNDP rules and regulations.

Disclaimer



Applicant information about UNDP rosters

Note: UNDP reserves the right to select one or more candidates from this vacancy announcement. We may also retain applications and consider candidates applying to this post for other similar positions with UNDP at the same grade level and with similar job description, experience and educational requirements.



Non-discrimination

UNDP has a zero-tolerance policy towards sexual exploitation and misconduct, sexual harassment, and abuse of authority. All selected candidates will, therefore, undergo rigorous reference and background checks, and will be expected to adhere to these standards and principles.

UNDP is an equal opportunity and inclusive employer that does not discriminate based on race, sex, gender identity, religion, nationality, ethnic origin, sexual orientation, disability, pregnancy, age, language, social origin or other status.

Pentru a aplica, va rugam sa adresati link-ul: Apply Now

Data de incheiere a postului vacant : 08 septembrie 2023

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Keystone Moldova contracteaza servicii de consultanta pentru consolidarea competentelor profesionale ale personalului care activeaza in cadrul serviciilor sociale Centre de zi pentru copii pentru copii si tineri cu dizabilitati
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Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC)  Suicide Prevention Grant Fund

Grants available: 10,000 - 750,000

Deadline to apply: 1 October

Who is the funding for?

The DHSC has launched a 10m grant fund to support suicide prevention activities delivered in England by non-profit organisations. The activities funded must be free of charge for the recipient. The fund aims to meet the increased demand seen in previous years and to support a range of diverse activities that can prevent suicides. The fund is particularly interested in supporting organisations that aim to support groups of concern. These are children and young people, middle-aged men, people who have previously self-harmed, autistic people, pregnant women and new mothers, people in contact with the justice system and mental health services.

When will you hear back?

Unspecified.

Find out more here.

Commonweal Housing  Call for New Ideas programme

Grants available: 10,000

Deadline to apply: 29 September

Who is the funding for?

Social justice charity Commonweal Housing is offering funding of between 5,000-10,000 to not-for-profit organisations to conduct a study of housing and support model tackling issues facing vulnerable individuals that have came into contact with the criminal justice system.

Commonweal Housing is particularly interested in project ideas from Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic (BAME) led and BAME focused organisations.

When will you hear back?

November 2023.

Find out more here.

Armed Forces Covenant Fund

Grants available: up to 100,000

Deadline to apply: 13 November

Who is the funding for?

The Reaching and Supporting Armed Forces Communities programme is open for applications from charities, community interest companies and Armed Forces Units targeted at supporting the armed forces community. Applicants must help address how the funding would support armed forces communities with hidden, compelling and complex needs, as well as those affected by the cost-of-living crisis.

When will you hear back?

March 2024.

Find out more here.

sign up to receive the Civil Society News daily bulletin here . For more news, interviews, opinion and analysis about charities and the voluntary sector,
A woman who defrauded a charity out of more than 150,000 and fled to Turkey before her sentencing hearing has been detained and brought back to the UK.

Donna Wells previously pleaded guilty to fraud offences against Young Addaction Halton, a charity which provided support to people with alcohol, drugs, or mental health issues.

Cheshire Police became involved in the case in December 2020 when it was informed of financial irregularities at the charity, relating to payments being made to unknown suppliers, petty cash payments, and card payments.

Wells was employed as the service manager and approved invoice payments on behalf of the charity.

An audit by the charity revealed a large number of payments being made by Wells, authorising the transfer of funds into four separate bank accounts not known to the charity.

Three of the accounts belonged to Wells but she also used a friends husband, Francis Jones, to launder some of the money through his mobile sandwich bar.

Invoices to the value of 42,800 were paid to Jones Butty Bar between January 2018 and September 2019.

Jones admitted the money had been dishonestly paid into his business by Wells, and he had paid 28,100 of this back to Wells accounts.

On 2 December 2022, he was sentenced to 15 months imprisonment suspended for two years and ordered to carry out 100 hours unpaid work.

Wells was sentenced in her absence on 5 June at Liverpool Crown Court to four years for fraud by false representation and acquiring criminal property between January 2018 and January 2020.

She had failed to appear at court on 2 December 2022 and information led police to believe she had fled to Turkey. On 18 August, Wells was detained and deported back to the UK to face sentence.

Wells appeared at Liverpool Crown Court on 22 August where she was told her four-year sentence still stands. She will also serve another four weeks for breaching bail.

This money belonged to a charity committed to helping people in need

Cheshire Police detective constable Daryl Gavin said: Not only did Wells fraudulently take a large amount of money, this money belonged to a charity committed to helping people in need.

Instead of facing the consequences of her actions, Wells attempted to evade police before she could appear in court to be sentenced.

But efforts continued to locate Wells, and have resulted in her being detained by Turkish authorities and deported back to the UK to be held accountable for her crimes.

A spokesperson for the drug, alcohol and mental health charity With You (formally Addaction) said: We deeply regret that fraud occurred in one of our services and we take this matter very seriously. It is unacceptable to manipulate a system in place to support some of societys most vulnerable groups for personal gain.



Once alerted, we conducted a thorough internal investigation, working together with relevant authorities. We have since interrogated our processes and taken additional steps to ensure this doesnt happen again.



Following the loss of funds, our staff continued to run services utilising the organisations reserve funds to do so.

sign up to receive the free Civil Society daily news bulletin here . For more news, interviews, opinion and analysis about charities and the voluntary sector,
Last week, a piece of internet history died. If you live outside of the French-speaking world, you likely wont have noticed. You may not have noticed even if you live in the French-speaking world, but, if youre between the ages of thirty and forty, the news may well have hit with a prickle of nostalgia. The story of Skybloga blogging platform that was hugely popular among Francophone teenagers in the early to mid-2000s, and became arguably one of the first major social networksis that of an early European tech success that was, eventually, driven into obsolescence by powerhouse American rivals. It also speaks to a more universal truth: the cyclical nature of our online habits, and the ephemerality of individual platforms.

Skyblog was born out of an old-school radio station. In the eighties, Pierre Bellanger, a media entrepreneur with roots in pirate radio, founded Skyrock; the station focused on musicalt-rock, trance, rapbut from the beginning, it also had a spiky, topical sensibility. Following the nuclear disaster at Chernobyl in 1986, according to Le Monde, Skyrock used a Geiger counter to take radiation readings in Paris; Bellanger once told Le Monde that instead of having people on air who affirm that racism is a shame, we broadcast the song Aicha, by Khaled, because it says more. Skyrock aimed to talk, above all, to young people, Olivier Clairouin, a tech journalist at Le Monde, told me. It centered around rap, a genre that, at the time, was invisible on other radio stations and in other media.

In 2002, Skyrock launched Skyblog with a similar desire, to facilitate a conversation among young people. (Users created individual, customizable pages on given topics and themes, with posts appearing in reverse-chronological order; it was somewhat similar to Tumblr.) The launch was also a business strategy: at the time, many media companies had a website that mirrored their offline output but lacked an economic model for it, Guillaume Sire, a writer and lecturer at the University of Toulouse, explained on Radio France recently; Skyrock, by contrast, created something new and separate that was attractive to advertisers. Skyblog wasnt the first or only blogging platformBellanger took inspiration from existing American blogsbut it would become one of the biggest of its time. The founders pitched the platform as a conduit for unprecedented free expression. Its slogan was Ici T Libre, an abbreviated rendering of the French for Here, you are free. Bellanger has said that a free radio station begat a free social network. (Bellanger said that he wasnt available to talk with me, but did send an eight-page PDF featuring his answers to frequently asked questions about the platform.)

In the mid-2000s, Skyblog was at the heart of a blogosphere in France that, by some metrics, was the second biggest in the world after that of the US. The blogging phenomenon spawned TV and radio shows and a dedicated magazine called Netizen, which sought to understand the revolution were living through; major media companies, including Le Monde and the TV network TF1, themselves dabbled in the blogging space, as did politicians and political commentators. Skyblog itself was not a journalistic platform; the young people who used it wrote about their fandoms, their feelings, and other preoccupations. But it was certainly a venue for political speech: in 2006, around a thousand blogs sprang up on the platform amid mass protests of a government proposal to weaken labor rights for young workers. (The proposal was scrapped.) And government officials used Skyblog to sound out young peoples views.

According to Bellanger, by 2007, Skyblog was one of the biggest websites in the world. Things went downhill from there. The following year, Facebook entered the French market and rapidly gained in popularity at Skyblogs expense; as the age of desktop computers gave way to the age of smartphones, Skyblog proved ill-suited to adapt. (Bellanger has said that the US tech giants had structural advantages over Skyblog, but has also conceded the attractiveness of their products.) Skyblog nonetheless limped alonguntil this summer, when Bellanger announced its imminent closure, citing technological obstacles to its continued operation as well as legal concerns linked to the platforms compliance with the European Unions strict data-privacy laws.

Bellanger told Radio France that Skyblogs management faced a choice: they could either overhaul the platform entirely, thus erasing its historic culture, or preserve it as a sociological treasure. In the end, they opted for the latter course. Frances national library and an institute that archives audiovisual media are now in the process of preserving much of Skyblog. I worried I was burning down the Library of Alexandria, Bellanger said. I didnt want that.

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Now that Skyblog has closed, former users and French journalists (far from mutually exclusive categories) have been assessing its legacy. In some ways, its past pitfallsand the various moral panics to which it was subjected over the yearssound familiar from our current age of social media. In 2005, French police asked the platform to close down a number of blogs that had been accused of inciting violence during a wave of riotsa clear echo, Clairouin notes, of President Emmanuel Macrons rhetoric criticizing the role of social media in stoking a wave of unrest earlier this summer. But blogging, while still with us, has seen better days as a form of mass communication. Today, we have influencers, Clairouin told me. Its different.

Indeed, at least some of the nostalgia around the closure of Skyblog has testified to a sense that the platform was more authentic and less curated than todays big social media platformsa place where young people could find a voice and experiment with it. On the day the platform shut down, Clairouin and colleagues at Le Monde ran a live chat to discuss readers reactions to the news. One response, from a journalist, credited Skyblog with helping to teach him how to write. Others, Clairouin told me, have seemed nostalgic for a more intimate, less centralized internet, before the era of Big Tech platform dominance. We see today a desireto again find spaces that are smaller, more constrained, less open, he said.

In a sense, this is a paradox; Skyblog explicitly marketed itself as a tool that people could use to, for the first time, speak to anyone, anywhere. In practice, though, many adopters used it to keep up with their friends. In any case, its founders have recognized that, these days, people want less openness and more privacy online. Skyrock may have shuttered Skyblog, but it still maintains Skred, an encrypted-messaging app that the company launched in 2017 and that now claims to have seventeen million users worldwide. Last year, The Verge listed Skred as one of the seven best secure-messaging apps, alongside more familiar names like WhatsApp and Signal.

Even compared with these rivals, Skred has centered its appeal on privacy: you dont need an email address or phone number to use it, and it doesnt search your phone for contacts; one of the few ways of starting a chat is to have your interlocutor physically scan a QR code. In the twentieth century, freedom of expression meant talking to everyone, Bellanger wrote recently. In the twenty-first, it means choosing who to listen to.



Other notable stories:

ICYMI: Vivek Ramaswamy, ChatGPT, and the media hype machine

Jon Allsop is a freelance journalist whose work has appeared in the New York Review of Books, Foreign Policy, and The Nation, among other outlets. He writes CJRs newsletter The Media Today. Find him on Twitter @Jon_Allsop.
Under the sleek, polished glass of earlier models of Apples iPhone, you might have found cobaltthe blue-stained mineral nicknamed the blood diamond of batteriesmined by child labor in the Democratic Republic of Congo. After a report on unethical mining by Amnesty International in 2016 and a Sky News dispatch in 2017, Apple suspended use of hand-mined cobalt. But, according to reporting in the New Yorker in 2021, once the media attention died down the practice continued, and the linked company, Zhejiang Huayou Cobalt, remained part of Apples supply chain. Apple is far from the only tech firm implicated in such practices. In many cases, a technologys shiny exterior hides exploitation beneath.

The boom in artificial intelligence (AI) and large language models over recent years have not been exempt from this trend. On Monday, the Washington Post published an investigation into the digital sweatshops of the Philippines where workers train AI models for often below minimum wage pay. In interviews with thirty-six current and former freelance workers for the company Scale AI, which has delivered services for Meta, Microsoft, OpenAI and the US Department of Defense, the Post found payments routinely delayed or canceled. The budget for all this, I know its big None of that is trickling down to us, Paul, one of the workers, told them. As the Post wrote, While AI is often thought of as human-free machine learning, the technology actually relies on the labor-intensive efforts of a workforce spread across much of the Global South and often subject to exploitation.

One reporter who has done much to uncover these exploitative relationships is Billy Perrigo, a correspondent at TIME based in the London bureau. His investigation exposing Facebooks African Sweatshop led to an ongoing lawsuit against Facebook in Kenya and a successful vote to unionize by impacted workers; his piece on how OpenAI Used Kenyan Workers on Less Than $2 Per Hour to Make ChatGPT Less Toxic energized the conversation on AIs unscrupulous practices. At its best, Perrigos reporting on exploitation by big tech firms, which was shortlisted for last years Orwell Prize, is like pulling up a marble paving stone in Silicon Valley to find the dirty practices hiding beneath. Our conversation has been edited for clarity and length.

JB: Earlier this year, you reported on how OpenAI relies on Kenyan workers paid between $1.32 and $2 an hour to make ChatGPT less toxic, trawling through stacks of traumatic data to train its algorithms and detect problematic content. Can you tell us more about the story and how you reported it?

BP: The crucial thing about this story was that it wasnt actually the first story that I wrote about the outsourcing company in question [Sama]. Id published a story before about how the same outsourcer had done content moderation work for Facebook in quite similar circumstances. Basically, low-paid employees having to look at the worst material that you can imagine, so that the rest of us dont have to see it. After the publication of that story, I became aware that OpenAI had also been a client.

This was before the mass excitement about large language models, but Id been playing with GPT-3 for a long time and sensed that kind of boom was coming. As I was reporting the story out, OpenAI released ChatGPT, and suddenly the entire world became aware of this technology that Sama, the outsourcing company, had been helping OpenAI to build. Effectively, employees would read snippets of text and categorize them for different types of toxicity, including violence and sexual abuse. Because OpenAI, for very good reason, didnt want their chatbot to be sexually abusive or hateful.

What did some of the employees doing this work tell you about the impact on them?

They all said the work was basically quite traumatic. And it took me a while on the reporting process to fully internalize how traumatic that work could be. Id been used to talking to Facebook content moderators who are viewing images and videos, where its much easier to understand how something could be causing vicarious trauma. But with reading text, it wasnt immediately clear to me how that would cause trauma. One day, one of my sources said to me, Im paraphrasing, Youre reading this content, day in, day out, over the course of days and weeks and months, it seeps into your brain and you cant get rid of it. I saw many examples of the kinds of texts that they were reading, and they were pretty grim. Theres been subsequent reporting on this from some very good journalists, which elaborates in a lot more detail than my initial story about the personal ramifications of this work on some of the people who did it, that involves marital breakdown, depression.

You alluded to your previous story on how Facebook is using the same company, Sama, to train its algorithms to detect horrific content. And your investigation found workerspaid as little as $1.50 an hourbecoming traumatized, and the company crushing a unionization drive. Can you talk about how tech firms rely on these massive supply chains of human labor, which is often missing from the conversation?

A lot of the Silicon Valley narrative is that the technology these companies are building is shiny and clean and divorced from any of the material difficulties that you might see in the rest of the world. Looking at supply chains, whether thats supply chain of data or raw materials, that picture quickly falls apart. In the case of social media, weve known for a long timeand I was by no means the first to reportthat the work of keeping feeds free of the most grim material cannot be done by AI, and largely relies upon human labor. Even as these companies are using AI to reduce the number of humans who are doing it, there is no such thing as an AI tool that can do this work to the level that a human can.

Its an open question now whether that is changing. OpenAI recently put out a research paper that said GPT-4 can actually do content moderation to roughly the same level as a human. If its borne out, thats actually quite good news in the sense that it doesnt mean content moderation going forward will rely on this mass of human labor. But then you ask the question, who does that technological innovation benefit? And it doesnt actually benefit any of the people who were doing that content moderation in the past, and now they will lose their jobs. The work was sometimes talked about in the language of providing opportunities for people in the Global South. If that work is to be automated away, its unclear to what extent those people will benefit.

Is this a new form of colonialism in a waybig tech platforms, in your words, outsourcing trauma to the developing world?

I wouldnt say its necessarily a new form of colonialism, but it certainly benefits from historical inequities of power and extraction. It does more to concentrate wealth and power than it does to redistribute.

In your reporting on big tech from below, you speak to people who are not only suffering with PTSD or psychological trauma, but also their livelihoods are at stake if theyre discovered speaking out. As a journalist, how do you navigate that with sensitivity?

For the Facebook story, we worked with a whistleblower protection group called the Signals Network, who were great. They connected Daniel [Motaung], the whistleblower, with a therapist, and thats where he was diagnosed with PTSD, he hadnt actually received a formal diagnosis before. But it was very clear from simply interacting with him that he was not in a good place. We gave anonymity to all of the other sources in that story who requested it. Because, youre correct, there are significant repercussions for speaking out. Theres the widespread use of non-disclosure agreements, which often actually dont necessarily have as much of a legal basis as theyd have us believe. But regardless, when you are as far down on the wealth and power scale as many of these people are compared to their employers, thats a very real consideration.

But on the other hand, many of these people have so little to lose because of the position theyve been put in, that at least some of them that I spoke to felt they had no other option but to speak up.

Since Elon Musk took over Twitter last year, the company has rowed back on content moderation, with studies showing that hate speech has jumped on the platform since then. And this has given cover to others like Facebook to bring back formerly banned accounts too. Whats your view on the impact of this weakening of moderation recently?

Its clear that its coming at a time when we need it perhaps more than ever. Not only do we have a very contentious presidential election coming up in the US, but also the rise of artificial intelligence tools, which can produce not only disinformation but also targeted harassment and deep fakes and abuse at scale. Were living in an increasingly fractured media environment, where even if it wasnt for the rise of AI tools that completely flub the truth in a significant percentage of their answers, its becoming more economically difficult for news organizations to even survive. So content moderation isnt a little thing on the side thats unrelated to all of those things. Its pretty central to questions of, what information environment are we living in? The decline of tech companies investing in that as a priority should be seen holistically with all of these things.

To their credit, OpenAI and the other large language model purveyors have learned many of the lessons that social media companies didnt take heed off in the first ten years of their lives. OpenAI was right to try and build those protections into the chatbot. Its just a shame that the work was handled at that outsourcer the way that it was. Also, Sama is simply the only outsourcer that we know of that was doing this work for ChatGPT.

The 2024 election cycle is beginning to gear up now. What do you expect from what could be the first AI election?

Yes, great question. Im not an expert by any stretch. One thing that several AI CEOs have said now, including [OpenAIs] Sam Altman, is that although these tools can be used to generate disinformation at scale, they cant be used to distribute disinformation at scale. To distribute information as well you need a megaphone, like a social media platform or a traditional media platform. I havent seen good evidence yet that large language models are making the distribution of disinformation and other kinds of information easier. Thats not to say it isnt changing the character of disinformation and the difficulty of dealing with it. I think they degrade the information ecosystem in many other ways. Its going to be pretty tough. But we shouldnt forget about social media as the vector of spreading these kinds of various harmful types of content.

TIME has interviewed industry leaders in AI, from DeepMinds Demis Hassabis to OpenAIs Sam Altman. Your [co-authored] piece characterized Altman as an evangelist preaching about risks yet plowing ahead anyway. I wonder what impression you get from the people designing these technologies of their awareness of their social responsibilities?

I didnt actually interview Altman, that was my colleague Edward Felsenthal. I get the impression from both of them that they are very aware of the social impact of their work, and they are trying to mitigate the harms as much as they can. The more pertinent question is: what incentives are they bound by? And what structures have they set up for themselves in order to prevent the harm and maximize the good of these systems? Thats a major unanswered question that will define whether AI progress is good or bad. I dont think most people at Facebook are acting maliciously and I dont think anyone at OpenAI is acting maliciously. But we live in a society where incentives matter more than intent in many cases.
A former Swiss Re underwriter has been awarded nearly 1.3 million pounds ($1.6 million) by a London employment tribunal for sexual discrimination and unfair dismissal.

Julia Sommer joined Zurich-based Swiss Re in 2017 as a political risk underwriter in London but was made redundant in 2021, months after returning from maternity leave.

She sued Swiss Re, seeking just over 5 million pounds, saying a senior manager commented about her breasts, made references to sex and discriminated against her.

Swiss Re Faces $6.3M Claim Over Sex Discrimination, Unfair Dismissal

The Central London Employment Tribunal ruled last year that her redundancy was retrofitted to a pre-existing decision to dismiss her and that a senior manager repeatedly humiliated her.

The tribunal also said that comments made at work drinks in 2017  when the senior manager told her if I had breasts like yours, I would be demanding too and I bet you like to be on top in bed  were a horrible attempt at a joke and amounted to sex discrimination.

Sommer was awarded 1.29 million pounds in a ruling published on Thursday, which the tribunal said was for injury to feelings, personal injury and aggravated damages and other financial losses, including the loss of a bonus in 2021.

A Swiss Re spokesperson said in a statement: We are aware of this judgment, which is self-explanatory and which we have given careful consideration to. We have no additional comments to make.

Sommer could not be contacted for comment.

(Reporting by Sam Tobin; editing by Tomasz Janowski)
A U.S. appeals court has revived claims that McDonalds Corp violated federal antitrust law by requiring franchisees to agree not to hire away each others employees.

The 7th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in Chicago on Friday said the judge who dismissed the proposed nationwide class action last year failed to properly analyze the so-called no-poaching agreements.

The judge had found that the agreements were valid because they protected franchisees investments in training workers.

But the 7th Circuit on Friday said the judge must look more closely at whether the agreements needed to cover the entire country and last for six months after workers left their jobs.

Circuit Judge Frank Easterbrook wrote that those questions cant be answered by observing that any given franchise contract, viewed by itself, expands the output of food.

McDonalds and lawyers for the plaintiffs did not immediately respond to requests for comment on Monday.

Two former McDonalds workers were appealing a 2022 ruling by U.S. District Judge Jorge Alonso in Chicago dismissing claims the agreements stifled competition and depressed their wages.

The agreements barred franchisees from hiring people who worked at other franchises or corporate stores anywhere in the United States for six months after they left their jobs.

McDonalds in court filings has said it stopped requiring franchisees to sign no-poach agreements in 2017. Several other major fast-food companies have taken the same step in recent years in response to probes by states.

The plaintiffs were backed in their appeal by the Biden administration and the Democratic attorneys general of 20 states and Washington, D.C., who said in court briefs that McDonalds agreements illegally suppressed workers wages.

The 7th Circuit on Friday also said the district court judge should rethink his ruling declining to certify a nationwide class in the lawsuit. McDonalds has said the class could include millions of workers.
Members of veterans associations hold a rally in front of Gwangju City Hall, Aug. 28, to oppose the city's plan to build a public park in honor of a communist composer. Yonhap



A controversial plan by the southwestern city of Gwangju to build a park in commemoration of Korean-born Chinese composer Jeong Yul-seong has met with fierce opposition from the conservative central government and veterans and conservative organizations.



Jeong, who is also known by his Chinese name Zheng Lucheng, is revered in China and North Korea for composing many of their military songs, but many South Koreans regard him as a communist and even an enemy due to his careers in the North Korean and Chinese armies before and during the 1950-53 Korean War.



Jeong was born in Gwangju in 1914 during Japan's colonial rule and reportedly fought with Korean independence fighters in China in the 1930s. He participated in North Korea's army after the 1945 liberation and then joined the Chinese communist army during the Korean War. He became a Chinese citizen in 1956.



In May 2020, the Gwangju city government, citing Jeong's fight against Japan's colonial rule, announced the plan to build Jeong Yul-seong History Park in the area around his birth home in the city's Bullo-dong district at a cost of 4.76 billion won ($3.6 million) by the end of 2023. At that time, the city government touted the park as a symbol of friendship between South Korea and China that would help attract more Chinese tourists there.



But it is only recently that the issue has become a national controversy. Jeong and the envisioned Gwangju park began to made headlines from Aug. 22, when Minister of Patriots and Veterans Affairs Park Min-shik publicly criticized the Gwangju municipality for attempting to glorify a communist who fought for North Korea during the Korean War.



"I express strong concern over the Gwangju city's plan to commemorate Jeong Yul-seong who was at the forefront of (the war to) overthrow a free Republic of Korea with taxpayers' money. It should be completely scrapped," Park said in his social media post, using South Korea's official name.



The minister also emphasized that Jeong contributed to the establishment of the North Korean government and sounded the invasion march toward South Korea during the war.



Park further stepped up his objection this week, vowing to risk his ministerial post to block the park project in a public address on Monday.



Members of various veterans associations based in Gwangju also denounced the city's plan to commemorate the "North Korean hero" in a news conference in front of the city hall on Monday. They said veterans and patriots are lamenting the creation of a park to glorify North Korea's hero Jeong.



They said they will team up with veterans groups from other parts of the country to hold a large-scale joint rally at the same place against the park project on Wednesday afternoon.



Conservative political groups and activists also held similar rallies against the project in front of the Gwangju city hall and on a Gwangju street named after Jeong earlier this week.



Despite the growing opposition, Gwangju Mayor Kang Gi-jung appears to remain stubbornly determined to pursue the park project. Kang told reporters Monday that the project was initiated by the central government during the presidency of Roh Tae-woo in the late 1980s, dismissing the recent spike in opposition as based on an ideological bias.



"The Gwangju city government will responsibly push ahead with the park project launched together with the central government as part of a South Korean-Chinese friendship project," the mayor said. (Yonhap)


AVON, Ohio

Impaired driver: Center Road

Police questioned the driver of a car stopped in the middle of an intersection at 3:37 a.m. Aug. 4. The officer instructed the driver to move to a safe location.

The officer determined while speaking to her that the driver was under the influence of alcohol. The driver failed field sobriety tests and was arrested for operating a motor vehicle impaired.

Trespassing: Colorado Avenue

A Medina man was arrested for trespassing when police responded to a Pilot Travel Center at 7:21 a.m. Aug. 8.

The man had previously been trespassed from the property and was found with suspected narcotics and drug paraphernalia. He was booked into the Avon City Jail and later released.

Theft: Nagel Road

A Cleveland man and a Wellington woman were arrested at 11:02 a.m. Aug. 8 when police responded to a theft from a Meijer store.

Police located the suspects vehicle. Both denied stealing items from the store.

Police located four stolen items totaling approximately $163 inside the car, along with drug paraphernalia and suspected crack cocaine. The man also had several active warrants for his arrest.

Theft: Detroit Road

Police responded to a Walmart at 1:32 p.m. Aug. 6 on a report of a stolen wallet.

A loss prevention manager who showed police security video of the theft, but officers were unable to locate and retrieve the wallet for the victim.

Trespassing: Doovys Street

Police arrested a man for criminal trespassing during a call to a home about an animal complaint.

Get police blotters by email every weekday for free with our new Police Blotter newsletter. Sign up at cleveland.com/newsletters

Read more news from the Sun Sentinel.
CHICAGO, Illinois  A TV news crew doing a story on a rash of robberies in the city was robbed at gunpoint early Monday morning while conducting a report.

Three armed men wearing ski masks approached the reporter and photographer, both males, from Univision Chicago at about 5 a.m., the Chicago Sun-Times reports. The robbers took the victims money, then also stole a camera and other equipment from an SUV belonging to the victims.

ABC 7 reports it was one of a rash of armed robberies in Chicago in which two to four people ambush their victims, sometimes physically assaulting them.

The Sun-Times reports a photographer with ABC 7 was assaulted and robbed earlier this month while covering a news conference.
BLENDON TOWNSHIP, Ohio  A pregnant woman who was suspected of shoplifting was fatally shot by a police officer when she refused to get out of her vehicle, then tried to run over an officer with the car, police say.

John Belford, the police chief in the Columbus suburb, released a statement on Facebook saying two officers involved the incident have been placed on administrative leave during the investigation Thursdays shooting of TaKiya Young, 21, of Columbus.

The Columbus Dispatch reports Young was six months pregnant with her third child. The unborn child also died in the shooting.

According to the statement, two police officers were helping a woman who was locked out of her car in the parking lot of a Kroger store at about 6:20 p.m. Thursday. An employee from the store approached officers and pointed to a woman, identified as Young, in a Lexus sedan with no license plates, saying Young had stolen several bottles of alcohol and was attempting to flee. The Lexus was parked in a handicapped spot in front of the store.

An officer approached the drivers side of the Lexus after Young had started the car, police say, and ordered her to get out. Police say Young ignored the order.

Another officer got in front of the vehicle, police say. Officers reportedly asked Young to get out of the vehicle more than a dozen times.

Instead, Young is accused of accelerating forward toward an officer, who fired one shot through the windshield of the vehicle. Body-camera footage has not yet been released, but Belford says it shows the officer was in the cars path when the shot was fired.

The car continued for about another 50 feet before stopping on a sidewalk. Officers smashed the drivers side window and gave Young medical assistance. An emergency room doctor who was passing by also assisted, police say. Young was pronounced dead at Mount Carmel St. Anns Hospital in Westerville.

Belford says the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation will review the shooting.

I wanted a thorough and independent review of this incident, Belford said in the statement. Our department is fully cooperating with them.

Belford says he has spoken with Youngs family members and they are understandably upset.

Every loss of life is a tragedy, he said. Ive personally spoken with a member of the family and I will continue to keep them informed about whats happening.
CLEVELAND, Ohio  Two men died in a fiery crash after their vehicle crashed head-on into another vehicle on Ohio 176 while they were trying to elude officers, police say.

The Cuyahoga County Medical Examiners Office says Jibril Miguel Allen, 21, of Chardon, and Darnell James Prince, 23, of Burton, both died from the crash on Ohio 176 (Jennings Freeway), which occurred at about 8:15 p.m. Saturday. Two others were injured in the crash.


By Chun In-bum



On July 27, 2023, a significant milestone was reached in the Republic of Korea as the nation commemorated the 70th anniversary of the signing of the armistice agreement, a pivotal event that laid the groundwork for South Korea's extraordinary economic growth and its evolution into a thriving democracy. This occasion not only marked a celebration of peace, but also served as an opportunity for the Korean people to reflect on the immense sacrifices made during the Korean War. The contributions of 16 nations that deployed combat troops and six nations that provided vital medical support were remembered with gratitude, showcasing the true spirit of international solidarity.



The Korean War, 1950 to 1953, cast a long shadow of sorrow over the region. The statistics are both heart-wrenching and staggering: two million North Koreans and 400,000 thousand South Koreans lost their lives during this period, amounting to nearly ten percent of the entire population. Adding to this devastating toll, approximately 150,000 South Korean soldiers made the ultimate sacrifice. The North Korean military and the Chinese "volunteers" also experienced grave losses, with estimates exceeding five hundred thousand casualties combined.



As the conflict engulfed the Korean Peninsula, other nations also faced the weight of casualties. The United States mourned the loss of thirty-six thousand servicemen, while the United Kingdom saw more than a thousand lives cut short. Turkey, known for its unwavering courage and discipline, saw its own losses surpassing a thousand. The profound impact of this war reverberated across the globe, as evidenced by the hundreds of families in countries such as Canada, Australia, France, Colombia, Greece, Thailand, Ethiopia, the Netherlands and the Philippines who still bear the sorrow of their fallen loved ones. The human cost, both in lives lost and families shattered, was an integral part of the high price paid for the Korean War.



Six nations, namely Sweden, India, Denmark, Norway, Italy and West Germany, extended crucial medical support to South Korean and the United Nations Forces. Their contributions ranged from setting up mobile field hospitals and sending medical professionals including doctors and nurses to providing hospital beds, equipment and ambulances. This humanitarian intervention amidst the chaos of war highlighted the power of empathy in the face of adversity.



The eventual armistice marked a turning point, but the formation of the Neutral Nations Supervisory Commission (NNSC) became an important element that ensured its implementation. The NNSC's initial mission was to conduct inspections and investigations to prevent the influx of reinforcements, such as additional military personnel or new weapons, into Korea. The NNSC's role was crucial in maintaining stability. The NNSC was comprised of senior officers who were appointed by the United Nations Command (UNC) and jointly appointed by the Korean People's Army (KPA) and the Chinese People's Volunteers (CPV).



Notably, Switzerland and Sweden were chosen by the UNC, while Czechoslovakia and Poland were selected by the KPA and CPV. As geopolitical dynamics shifted following the collapse of communism, the Czech and Polish components were expelled from the NNSC in the 1990s. However, Sweden and Switzerland remained steadfast, continually adapting their roles and responsibilities to bolster South Korean security and stability in Northeast Asia.



Swedish and Swiss officers stand as a testament to the enduring commitment to peace. Serving along the Military Demarcation Line, these unarmed individuals hold the distinction of being the most forward-deployed military personnel, second only to South Korean and U.S. combat forces. Their presence acts as a living tribute to the armistice. Their only reward is being allowed to witness the tranquility of the night sky unpolluted by the lights of the modern world.



Curiously, despite their dedication, the presence of Swiss and Swedish delegations have often gone unnoticed by most Koreans. Similarly, the discomfort of North Korea regarding the NNSC's presence has remained overshadowed by larger geopolitical concerns. Amid this backdrop, Poland, while participating in NNSC activities, has not maintained a continuous presence since the mid-1990s. Given the changing landscape in Europe and the deepening military relationship between Korea and Poland, the reevaluation of Poland's involvement in the NNSC becomes an intriguing prospect.



As the 70th anniversary of the Korean Armistice Agreement is celebrated, it is an opportune moment to reflect on the significance of this event. Sweden, Switzerland and Poland, through their engagement with the NNSC, have made substantial contributions to the peace process. While the NNSC's significance might be downplayed by North Korea, its role remains influential, lending credibility to the ongoing efforts toward stability. This small yet impactful organization deserves the respect, recognition, and gratitude of the Korean people, whose lives have been shaped by the lasting peace that the NNSC has helped maintain.



In conclusion, the Korean Peninsula's journey from a war-torn battleground to a haven of peace and prosperity is a testament to the resilience of nations and the unwavering human spirit. As the world marks 70 years since the armistice agreement, the sacrifices of the past must be remembered, and the efforts toward reconciliation and peace must be acknowledged. The NNSC, often overlooked, stands as an enduring symbol of international cooperation. Its role in maintaining peace, stability, and credibility deserves not only our respect but also our profound gratitude as we look toward a future marked by continued harmony and growth on the Korean Peninsula.





Chun In-bum (truechun@naver.com) served as a lieutenant general of the ROK Army and commander of Special Forces Korea.




Revising history requires national consensus



Hong Beom-do is one of the most famous Korean generals who led the independence fight against Japanese colonialists in the 1920s and '30s.



In 2018, the Moon Jae-in administration set up the busts of General Hong and four other resistance leaders at the Korean Military Academy (KMA). They are the founding fathers of the Korean military and the Republic of Korea.



So, most Koreans were puzzled days ago when the KMA said it considered relocating Hong's bust somewhere else. It cited his record of collaborating with Soviet communist forces.



However, one must not judge historical figures by today's standards.



In the early 20th century, leftists led the armed fight against the Japanese Imperial Army in Manchuria with the help of China and Russia. The U.S. had condoned Japan's occupation of Korea until Pearl Harbor. Hong died in 1943 before Korea was liberated. He did not know his country would be divided into two and who would rule its northern half.



All this explains why former President Park Chung-hee, a staunch anti-communist, posthumously decorated Hong in 1962. Park's daughter and another conservative president, Park Geun-hye, also named an up-to-date Navy submarine after Hong in 2016. The only change since then was that a "new right" government took office about 15 months ago. Are Koreans watching the birth of their first ultra-right government?



The presidential office denies it has anything to do with the moves of the KMA or the Defense Ministry. That's cowardly. President Yoon Suk Yeol and his aides have always stayed behind administrative agencies while testing public opinion whenever they made unpopular decisions. Still, there are limits to hiding one's true feelings. The KMA's move came right after Yoon attacked the followers of "communist totalitarianism" in his National Liberation Day speech on Aug. 15.



Yoon's anachronistic remarks also stunned most Koreans, who thought communism died in 1989. Few countries, or even political groups, name themselves communist except for some splinter parties in Europe. The KMA's treatment of General Hong also reveals a glaring double standard with another famous ex-communist. Former President Park Chung-hee was a South Korean Labor Party member and was sentenced to death for an abortive rebellion in 1949. The KMA says the two figures cannot be compared. Whoever said history is a record of the winners was correct.



The president's hatred of leftists and progressives may be related to his prioritization of the trilateral alliance with the U.S. and Japan. Another three-nation bloc of China, Russia, and North Korea is on the other side.



However, 70 years after fighting stopped in the Korean War, regional powers don't seem to care about resuming it. What has changed is that America's main rival is now China, not Russia. Japan will also stop being a peripheral component and become a primary player. Superpowers don't fight directly but do it indirectly via their proxies. Should Koreans do that twice in less than a century? This peninsula could turn to ashes again, even in a conventional war.



Historical revision is possible  or even necessary  given a national consensus. Still, Yoon's shift to the far-right camp faces opposition even from most ruling party bigwigs. If the president fails to win widespread support from his party, he must stop.



The president may have the parliamentary elections next May in mind. Or he might have a far bigger and longer goal of maintaining a right-wing government for decades. To do so, however, he has far more urgent tasks to tackle by making people safer and wealthier. Yoon's foreign and economic policies go in opposite ways. He must reopen dialogue with the North and spend the dividends of peace for the economy and industry.



Military leaders must also stop watching the faces of political power and do their job. They must better protect soldiers' rights and welfare while improving emergency preparedness.



Yoon says reestablishing national identity is vital. However, if it means returning to the 20th century, few Koreans will agree.



Tuesday was the 113th anniversary of "National Humiliation Day" when Japan forced Korea to sign the annexation treaty.




 
Two police officers move around a building on the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill campus in Chapel Hill, N.C., on Monday, Aug. 28, 2023, after a report of an "armed and dangerous person" on campus.

A University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill faculty member was killed Monday in a shooting that prompted a campuswide lockdown while officials searched for an "armed and dangerous person," university officials said.

A suspect was captured about an hour and a half after the shooting, and an all-clear alert was issued for the campus about two hours after that

No other injuries were reported, schools officials said at a briefing Monday afternoon.

The university first alerted students of an armed and dangerous person on or near campus shortly after 1 p.m.

At 2:24 p.m., the university issued an alert to remain sheltered in place because a suspect was at large. Video from campus showed a large police presence.

When campus police released a photo of a person of interest at 2:35 p.m., they warned, "If you see this person, keep your distance, put your safety first and call 911."

The school said at 3:14 p.m. that all classes and events were canceled Monday.

North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper said in a statement that officials "are taking precautions to protect campus safety following today's shooting."

"This is a tragic way to start a new semester and the state will provide any assistance necessary to support the UNC community," Cooper said.

No one with the university was immediately reached Monday afternoon for additional comment.

Officials with the FBI in Charlotte said the federal agency is assisting local law enforcement.


In this photo illustration, the new Twitter logo rebranded as X (X Corp.) is seen on a smartphone and Elon Musk Twitter account with the new X logo on a pc screen.

X, the social network formerly known as Twitter, is facing 2,200 arbitration cases that ex-employees filed after Elon Musk took over the company, slashed headcount, and made other sweeping changes there. The filing fees alone for that volume of cases could amount to $3.5 million.

The arbitration numbers were revealed in a new filing out Monday as part of a lawsuit in a Delaware district court. The case is Chris Woodfield v. Twitter, X Corp. and Elon Musk (No. 1:23-cv-780-CFC).

Woodfield, a former senior staff network engineer who had worked at Twitter's Seattle office, alleges in his suit that Musk's Twitter (now known as X) had promised then failed to pay his severance, and later delayed alternative dispute resolution by failing to pay the necessary fees required for him to move ahead in the JAMS arbitration system.

According to the website for JAMS, "For two-party matters, the Filing Fee is $2,000," and "For matters based on a clause or agreement that is required as a condition of employment, the employee is only required to pay $400."

Since JAMS decided that this basic fee applies across the board to X's 2,200 arbitration cases, that would amount to around $3.5 million, with other fees possibly to follow.

The company's lawyers have argued that it did not mandate employees to resolve any issues in arbitration, so it should not be on the hook for the larger portion of the filing fees.

Meanwhile, Woodfield and others in a similar situation are trying to get out of arbitration and move their cases to trial.

As CNBC has previously reported, many large corporations require workers to sign an arbitration agreement upon employment wherever it is legal to do so. This means to speak freely in court, where their speech can become part of a public record, workers would first need to get an exemption from a judge.

Critics view arbitration as a secretive system that makes it harder for employees and prospective hires to find out how companies treat their workers, and what happened to people in previous related cases.

Proponents view arbitration as a way for companies and employees to resolve their issues efficiently without leaving employees on the hook for massive attorney's fees, especially if they lose their case.

The Woodfield case against Musk's X Corp. resembles another proposed class action filed in a San Francisco federal court.

In that case, Ma v. Twitter, in the Northern District of California (No. 3:23-cv-3301), ex-employees of Musk-era Twitter allege that the company delayed at least 891 arbitration cases by failing to pay required filing fees after compelling employees to agree to arbitrate their disputes in exchange for severance.


3M on Monday agreed to pay $6.01 billion to settle nearly 260,000 lawsuits by current and former U.S. military service members who say they suffered hearing loss from using the company's earplugs, according to a person familiar with the agreement.

The deal comes after a failed attempt by 3M earlier this year to move the lawsuits, which had grown into the largest mass tort litigation in U.S. history, into bankruptcy court in the hope of limiting its liability.

The money will be paid out mostly over the next five years, the person familiar with the agreement said.

3M shares had risen 5% on Monday on earlier reports that a settlement was imminent. Some analysts' estimates of the company's potential liability from the earplug litigation had been as high as $10 billion.

A 3M spokesperson and lawyers for the service members did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

The Combat Arms earplugs were made by Aearo Technologies, a company 3M acquired in 2008. They were used by the U.S. military in training and combat from 2003 to 2015, including in Afghanistan and Iraq.

Plaintiffs in the lawsuits claim that the company hid design flaws, fudged test results and failed to provide instructions for the proper use of the earplugs, leading to hearing damage.

The lawsuits were consolidated before U.S. District Judge M. Casey Rodgers in Pensacola, Florida federal court in 2019. At its height, the litigation accounted for about 30% of all federal court cases nationwide.
3M is on the verge of ending the largest mass tort litigation in U.S. history, but it's still facing other expensive legal headaches.

The company said Tuesday that it settled with roughly 250,000 plaintiffs in a $6.01 billion deal. Military veterans and service members alleged 3M manufactured defective earplugs that resulted in hearing loss.

"I am confident that this more than $6 billion settlement will receive full and overwhelming support, not just because it holds 3M accountable, but more importantly, because it provides just and deserved compensation to our veterans," Bryan Aylstock, the court-appointed lead plaintiffs' counsel, told to CNBC over email.

While news of the settlement relieves one big legal overhang, 3M is still awaiting approval of its $10.3 billion settlement with water utilities over drinking water contaminated with substances known as "forever chemicals."

That settlement, which is facing pushback from more than 20 states, only covers a subset of liabilities and does not include a growing list of states that have sued 3M. Nor does it include personal injury claims.

Capstone estimates 3M's total PFAS liability risk is nearly $30 billion, beyond the existing settlements.
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Artificial intelligence can be weaponized and needs to be reined in by humans, Microsoft's president and vice-chairman Brad Smith told CNBC in an exclusive interview. "I think every technology ever invented [has] the potential to become both a tool and a weapon," said Smith in the interview aired on Monday. "We have to ensure that AI remains subject to human control. Whether it's a government, the military or any kind of organization, that is thinking about using AI to automate, say, critical infrastructure, we need to ensure that we have humans in control, that we can slow things down or turn things off." Tech leaders around the world have warned about the risks of artificial intelligence after generative AI-powered chatbot ChatGPT exploded in popularity for its ability to produce humanlike responses. Generative AI is a type of artificial intelligence technology that can generate content such as text, images, code and more.

It is a tool that can help people think smarter and faster. The biggest mistake people could make is to think that this is a tool that will enable people to stop thinking. Brad Smith president and vice-chairman, Microsoft

"It's why we've advocated for not just companies to do the right thing, but new laws and regulations that would ensure that there are safety breaks," Smith told CNBC's Martin Soong on the sidelines of the Business 20 Summit in New Delhi on the weekend. "We've seen the need for this elsewhere. I mean, just imagine electricity depends on circuit breakers. You put your kids on a school bus, knowing that there is an emergency brake. We've done this before for other technologies. Now we need to do it as well for AI," said Smith.

AI impact on jobs

Meanwhile, the explosive growth of AI has workers worrying that their jobs could be replaced by the technology. A Goldman Sachs report in March said generative AI could impact as many as 300 million jobs around the world. Between 25% to 50% of the workload in those occupations affected may be replaced, said the investment bank, adding that jobs that require physical labor are less likely to be significantly affected.

The Microsoft executive pointed out that AI is a tool that supplements human work, and not one that replaces jobs. "It is a tool that can help people think smarter and faster. The biggest mistake people could make is to think that this is a tool that will enable people to stop thinking," said Smith. "That's why at Microsoft we call our services co-pilots," said Smith. "The ability to take a Word document and turn it into a PowerPoint slide doesn't mean you shouldn't read your PowerPoint slides before you present them. In fact, you should go in and edit them and make them just perfect."

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Analysts at an Asian brokerage and investment group have picked four semiconductor stocks to play the "booming demand" for high-performance chips. "This old semiconductor migration locomotive still has steam in it yet, even amid the current industry downcycle, thanks to booming demand for high-performance chips," CLST analysts Jason Tsang and Cathy Hsu said in a research note dated Aug. 23. CLST is CLSA's broker-dealer and research provider in Taiwan. Semiconductors are used in products like tablets and smartphones, and the Covid-19 pandemic led to high demand for such goods, resulting in a shortage of some types of chips. Since then, supply and demand have become more balanced . CLST is buy-rated on Samsung , calling it a player with "leading edge manufacturing facilities." "We expect Samsung Electronics (SEC) to retain its technological edge in DRAM and NAND through successful migration to advanced manufacturing processes thanks to its ongoing R & D investments," the analysts said. DRAM refers to dynamic random-access memory, while NAND is a type of storage. Japanese firm Lasertec is also a buy for CLST because of its "enhanced product mix and potential share gain from key competitor." Analysts expect it to take market share from fellow chip manufacturer KLA. Nvidia supplier CLST is also buy-rated on Japanese firm Advantest , which it described as "the world's top semiconductor tester vendor," adding that it "dominates in servicing AI-related customers such as Nvidia and AMD , as well as hyperscalers providing cloud-computing services." South Korean firm SK Hynix is a buy for the bank too, which described it as a high bandwidth memory leader. "Memory stocks are soaring on anticipation of higher demand for high bandwidth memory (HBM) and DDR5 [memory] in AI servers, where Hynix now leads," the analysts wrote. "We expect the total addressable market for semiconductor equipment to enjoy sustained growth on the back of rising demand for front-end wafer fab equipment from both new entrants and existing suppliers as they expand capacity," the analysts said. Wafer fabrication is a key part of the manufacturing process, producing integrated circuits. "In addition to expanding shipment volumes, demand improvement, content growth, and value add should together drive a boom in the semiconductor equipment market," the analysts wrote.  CNBC's Michael Bloom and Arjun Kharpal contributed to this report.


By John J. Metzler







Most countries politely prefer to look the other way when it comes to confronting widespread reports of North Korean human rights violations. After all, what can you do about what goes on in one of the world's most closed and repressive communist regimes?







Well the U.N. Security Council, under the American presidency for August, ran with the diplomatic ball and scored major multinational condemnation of the ongoing rights violations

in the quaintly titled Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK), a.k.a. North Korea.







Albania, Japan, South Korea, and the United States co-sponsored an open briefing, which focused on what the United Kingdom described as "the appalling human rights situation in the DPRK. It is clear that human rights violations remain widespread, systematic and completely lacking in accountability."







A joint statement supported by 52 countries including most European states along with Australia, Canada, and Costa Rica, highlighted, "The DPRK government's violations and abuses have been well-documented by credible accounts, including numerous UN experts, and have been condemned through many General Assembly resolutions adopted by consensus over the past years  which include arbitrary killings, harsh and life-threatening prison conditions."







The Joint Statement added, "these human rights violations and abuses demand the Council's attention. But they are also inextricably linked with the DPRK's weapons of mass destruction and ballistic missile advancements in violation of Security Council resolutions."







Significantly the Statement underscored, "the DPRK's repressive political climate allows the government to divert resources to weapons development, at the expense of the welfare of the people in the DPRK who suffer from severe economic hardship and malnutrition."







Such a joint statement, agreed to by consensus by over fifty countries, is in itself a diplomatic achievement, especially within the halls of the United Nations. China was naturally opposed to the meeting that criticized Beijing's North Korean ally.







Addressing the Council, Volker Turk the U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights warned, "The persistence of severe, widespread and long-standing human rights violations in the DPRK cannot be seen in isolation from peace and security issues on the peninsula and within the wider region."







Commissioner Turk chided, that along with North Korea's increasing militarization, there is also "the widespread use of forced labor, including labor in political prison camps; forced use of schoolchildren to collect harvests; the requirement for families to undertake labor" as to provide for government quotas. Equally, the regime confiscates wages from overseas workers as a way to collect cash.







U.S. Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield stated powerfully, "The modern world has no place for the DPRK government's brutality. And the international community, and this Council, this Council, must continue to speak out against this injustice and its destabilizing impact on regional and international peace and security." She stressed, "Reports indicate the DPRK continues to hold more than 80,000 individuals in political prison camps," where reportedly "they are widely subjected to arbitrary or summary executions, torture, starvation, gender-based violence, forced abortions, and forced labor."







Naturally, the wider issue becomes the Kim Jong-un regime's profligate missile proliferation and ceaseless nuclear weapons development. Pyongyang's primary focus remains building a credible and lethal offensive weapons capacity at the expense of its population's well-being. Clearly, the DPRK regime stresses neutrons over nutrition for its impoverished people.







ROK delegate Hwang Joon-kook stated, "Instead of addressing its critical food shortages, the regime has continually squandered its scarce resources on a dangerous show of force and advancement of its weapons of mass destruction technology."







North Korean defector/dissident Kim Il-hyeok told the Council, "The government turns our blood and sweat into luxurious life for the leadership and missiles that blast our hard work into the sky." Kim added, "the money spent on just one missile could feed us for three months. But the government doesn't care and is only concerned with maintaining their power."







Shortly after the U.N. meeting, the United States separately hosted a Camp David summit where President Joe Biden welcomed South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida to a historic trilateral meeting. In response to widening North Korean and Chinese communist military muscle flexing, the Summit Communique stated, "The United States unequivocally reaffirms that its extended deterrence commitments to both Japan and the ROK are ironclad and backed by the full range of U.S. capabilities."







A memo added, "We recognize that we are stronger, and the Indo-Pacific is stronger, when Japan, the Republic of Korea, and the United States stand as one." This remains unquestioned.











) is a United Nations correspondent covering diplomatic and defense issues. He is the author of "Divided Dynamism The Diplomacy of Separated Nations; Germany, Korea, China."















John J. Metzler ( jjmcolumn@earthlink.net
Bill Gates has spent years, and billions of dollars, working to combat climate change.

The billionaire's foundation has invested vast sums in various climate tech solutions while regularly raising the alarm about the leading contributors to climate change, like the greenhouse gas emissions stemming from major energy and manufacturing companies burning fossil fuels at prodigious rates.

But, according to Gates, most people are still unaware of the role played by one of the biggest contributors to climate change: agriculture, specifically methane emissions from livestock and fertilizers.

"Of all the climate areas, the one that people are probably least aware of is all the fertilizer and cows, and that's a challenge," Gates recently said on the latest episode of his podcast, "Unconfuse Me."

The topic came up because Gates was in conversation with musician and director Ahmir "Questlove" Thompson, who, like Gates, also happens to be an early investor in several plant-based food startups, such as Impossible and NotCo.

Thompson, who is from Philadelphia, even recently partnered with Impossible to create a plant-based cheesesteak that counts former president Barack Obama as a fan, he told Gates.

Thompson told Gates he was won over by plant-based foods' ability to mimic the taste of real meat, among other products: "Something told me plant-based is going to be the future  and I want to be the person that plants the seed," he said.

While plant-based foods have won support from those looking for alternatives to products made from animals, Gates said that he started backing plant-based food ventures because of their potential to combat climate change.

"I came to it more from that climate angle," he said.

Gates has pointed out in the past that the agricultural industry contributes roughly 24% of the world's greenhouse gas emissions, with much of that stemming from methane emissions from livestock and fertilizer used to cultivate crops, according to data from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

In fact, if cattle "were a country," Gates wrote in 2018, "they would be the third-largest emitter of greenhouse gases [in the world]."

In his 2021 book, "How to Avoid a Climate Disaster," Gates wrote that effectively combating climate change will take people being willing to commit to new ideas, like switching to electric cars and synthetic meats.

That same year, Gates argued that wealthy countries that have the resources to do so "should move to 100% synthetic beef" in order to meaningfully reduce global emissions from livestock, he told the MIT Technology Review.

"You can get used to the taste difference, and the claim is they're going to make it taste even better over time," he said at the time. "Eventually, that green premium is modest enough that you can sort of change the [behavior of] people or use regulation to totally shift the demand."

Plant-based meat sales still represent just a small percentage of the total meat market, and even Gates admits it will be difficult to convince enough people to stop eating real meat to make a significant difference.

One issue is that the still relatively new products are currently more expensive than real meats. Still, Gates has a positive outlook that plant-based meat companies will continue to improve their products, and reduce their costs, helping them to eventually become more popular.

That's why Gates and his foundation have financially backed plant-based and lab-grown meat startups such as Impossible, Beyond Meat and Upside Foods. He's also backed Neutral, a carbon-neutral food startup. Speaking to Thompson about the plant-based meat startups, like Impossible, Gates said that "they're doing well, but a lot of people want him to make [the product] even slightly better."

"They have a good roadmap, so I'm optimistic," he said.

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Investors preparing for an economic downturn can expect dividend-paying names to shine, and Wolfe Research highlighted a few names worth buying. Recessionary worries are back in focus after Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell warned last week that the central bank is "prepared to raise rates further if appropriate." His remarks were made at the Kansas City Fed's annual retreat in Jackson Hole, Wyoming . "This is likely to put downward pressure on stocks, particularly the 'Big 7' tech names and other longer duration assets," Wolfe noted in its Monday report. "In this environment, we expect defensive names, such as dividend strategies to outperform." In particular, the firm recommended buying stocks that offer the second-highest quintile yield, a group that has historically outperformed the names in the top quintile with respect to yield. "This is even more important in a slowing economy as investors worry about potential dividend cuts from the highest yielders," Wolfe wrote. See below for 10 names that made the firm's cut. CenterPoint Energy popped up on Wolfe's list, even as the overall energy sector is negative for the year. The stock yields 2.7%. In July, CenterPoint posted second-quarter adjusted earnings of 28 cents per share on revenue of $1.88 billion. The company narrowly beat analysts' expectations of 27 cents per share in earnings and revenue of $1.87 billion, per StreetAccount. In all, 10 out of 16 analysts covering CenterPoint rate it a buy or a strong buy, according to Refinitiv. Wall Street anticipates upside of 16%, based on the average price target. Select tech names also fit the bill. Skyworks Solutions , which pays a dividend yield of about 2.5%, is on Wolfe's list. Earlier this month, Harsh Kumar of Piper Sandler hiked his price target on the semiconductor stock to $125 per share from $107. The analyst pointed to "solid execution while managing down excess inventory across Android customers." For its fiscal third quarter , Skyworks reported adjusted earnings of $1.73 per share, while analysts called for $1.67 per share, per FactSet. The company also boosted its quarterly dividend by 10% to 68 cents per share. About 44% of the analysts covering the stock rate it a buy or a strong buy, according to Refinitiv. The average price target on Skyworks anticipates upside of 12%. Finally, fast-food staple McDonald's made the grade. The stock pays a 2.1% dividend yield. Most recently, the company cruised to an earnings beat in the second quarter, buoyed by sales of its Grimace Birthday Meal . Stifel analyst Chris O'Cull hiked his price target on the stock to $315 from $300 after McDonald's posted its results, noting "few grimaces on another solid print." About 74% of the analysts covering the stock rate it a buy or a strong buy, per Refinitiv. The average analyst price target calls for upside of 16%.  CNBC's Michael Bloom contributed to this report.
Telecommunication giants AT & T and Verizon are turning a corner that will make it easier for both companies to maintain their high dividend yields, according to Citi. Analyst Michael Rollins upgraded Verizon and AT & T to buy. He maintained his target price for AT & T at $17 and raised his target price for Verizon by $1 to $40, suggesting shares stand to gain 19.6% and 19.2%, respectively, from where they closed Monday. "A variety of concerns have weighed on Telco sentiment and valuation, including competition, industry structure, higher rates and lead. We see a more constructive investment case for large-cap Telcos," Rollins wrote in a Monday note. "The wireless competitive environment is showing positive signs of stabilization that should help operating performance." Rollins noted that better free cash flow prospects are another potential catalyst to improve net debt leverage and perception regarding support for the stocks' current dividends. Verizon yields 7.8% along with AT & T, FactSet data shows. He also pointed to AT & T's and Verizon's recently introduced round of targeted price increases for existing customers as an indicator of a stabilizing wireless competitive landscape. Longer device holding periods from customers are also reducing upgrade costs, he added. On top of that, both stocks are trading at historically low valuations after this year's declines. Verizon is down nearly 15%, while AT & T has lost 22.8%. T VZ YTD mountain T and VZ in 2023 To be sure, the analyst noted that material concerns remain about the thousands of lead-sheathed cables used and left behind by AT & T and Verizon across the country, which were found posing health, environmental and regulatory risks, as first reported through a Wall Street Journal investigation in early July. Lead is a probable carcinogen. Rollins acknowledged that possible remediation costs for the lead could be in line or less than Citi's current estimates account for, and that costs from litigation remain unclear and will need to be monitored. "If the outcome for lead cabling is more likely in the range of immaterial to remediating the non-buried lead cabling, then we believe the stocks (largely T & VZ) could recover at least one-third, if not more than one-half, of their recent market cap losses of $21B," the analyst wrote. Both stocks were up 1.7% in the premarket Tuesday.  CNBC's Michael Bloom contributed reporting.
A street gang in Milwaukee allegedly stole millions of dollars in Covid-19 pandemic relief money that was then used to carry out a murder and purchase guns and drugs, among other items, according to a federal indictment.

The 43-count indictment charges 30 members of the "Wild 100s," also known as the "Shark Gang," with a litany of crimes that include mail fraud, murder for hire, conspiracy to sell guns, illegal possession of firearms including a machine gun and drug possession with intent to sell.

The indictment was returned by a grand jury in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Wisconsin and unsealed in May.

The alleged leader of the gang, Ronnell Bowman, and another defendant, Ronnie Jackson, were charged with the April 2021 killing of an individual named only as N.B. in a murder-for-hire scheme.

Bowman and Jackson have pleaded not guilty. Bowman, who was arrested in the Houston area in May, is being held in detention pending his trial. The two men could face life in prison if convicted.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Laura Kwaterski told a federal judge in May that Bowman was the ringleader of the fraud scheme and was personally responsible for $850,000 in stolen Covid relief money, according to a transcript from the defendant's detention hearing.

The fraud methods Bowman allegedly taught other gang members resulted in the theft of millions of dollars of Covid relief money, Kwaterski told the judge during the hearing.

The indictment alleges that the "Wild 100s" filed fraudulent claims for Pandemic Unemployment Assistance in California and several other states.
A judge set bond Tuesday for the only defendant in the Georgia election interference case who was jailed after surrendering to authorities last week.

Harrison Floyd, one of former President Donald Trump's 18 co-defendants charged in connection with efforts to over the 2020 election results, has negotiated a bond after initially being told by a separate judge that he was a potential flight risk.

According to court papers filed in Fulton County Superior Court, Judge Scott McAfee set Floyd's bond at $100,000  broken down by $40,000 for the racketeering charge and $30,000 each for influencing witnesses and conspiring to commit solicitation of false statements and writings.

Floyd has been jailed since he surrendered Thursday afternoon. All of the other defendants, including Trump, were released last week on bond after they were booked.

Fulton County jail records at 5 p.m. ET on Tuesday showed that Floyd was still in custody. An attorney for Floyd did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

During his initial court appearance Friday, Judge Emily Richardson denied Floyd's bond request and ordered that he remain at the Fulton County Jail over concerns that he was a potential flight risk, an assertion that Floyd rejected.

Richardson also cited a pending case for Floyd, in which he allegedly assaulted a federal officer this year, as among the reasons she denied his bond request.

Prosecutors in the Georgia case have accused Floyd, the former leader of Black Voices for Trump, of involvement in a scheme to pressure election worker Ruby Freeman into making false statements. Trump and his allies had falsely accused Freeman of election fraud.

Trump and other co-defendants in the case are scheduled to be arraigned on Sept. 6, though some have waived formal arraignments and already pleaded not guilty.
Market Movers rounded up the latest reactions on Nvidia from investors and analysts. The pros discussed the leading artificial intelligence chipmaker after the stock rallied more than 4% Tuesday. Shares dipped last Wednesday after the company reported second-quarter financial results that surpassed expectations. Nvidia's surge Tuesday was part of a broader bounce back in the tech sector, which saw investors buy the dip in stocks that had been hard hit in August. Additionally, Morgan Stanley reiterated an overweight investment recommendation on Nvidia. The bank said Nvidia's latest earnings last week were also positive for the AI supply chain . The stock is currently held in Jim Cramer's Charitable Trust portfolio.
"In the off-the-cuff greetings to some young Russian Catholics in recent days, as is clear from the context in which he pronounced them, the Pope intended to encourage young people to preserve and promote all that is positive in the great cultural and Russian spirituality, and certainly not to exalt imperialist logic and government personalities, cited to indicate some historical periods of reference," the Vatican's press officer said, in Google-translated comments carried by official outlet Vatican News .

Pope Francis did not intend "to exalt imperialist logic," the Vatican said Tuesday, after a speech delivered on Friday drew criticism for references to Russia's imperialist past.

The Roman Catholic church leader faced backlash after he told a group of young people via video address to remember that they are the heirs of past czars, some of whom Russian President Vladimir Putin has previously referred to when justifying the invasion of Ukraine.

"You are heirs of the great Russia  the great Russia of the saints, of kings, the great Russia of Peter the Great, of Catherine II, the great Russian empire, cultured, so much culture, so much humanity," Pope Francis said in the Friday speech, as translated and transcribed by NewsFromUkraine.

"You are the heirs of the great mother Russia. Go forward ... And thank you. Thank you for your way of being Russian," he added.

The speech was strongly criticized by Ukrainian officials.

"It is precisely with such imperialist propaganda, the 'spiritual ties' and the 'need' to save 'great Mother Russia' that the Kremlin justifies the killing of thousands of Ukrainians and the destruction of Ukrainian cities and villages," Oleg Nikolenko, spokesperson for the Ukrainian Foreign Ministry, said Monday on Facebook.

Russian officials meanwhile welcomed the religious leader's comments.

"The Kremlin welcomes the words of the Pope of Rome about the legacy of great Russia, it is good that the pontiff knows Russian history," spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said in his daily update Tuesday, as reported by state media agency Tass on Telegram, according to a Google translation.

The pope delivered the prepared speech in his native Spanish, before making these off-script comments in Italian.

The pope has previously repeatedly called for a cease-fire in the war in Ukraine and spoken against Russia's actions in the conflict. In May, he met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, and the Kyiv leader later said the pair discussed how to bring Russia's war in Ukraine to a peaceful conclusion. Zelenskyy expressed gratitude to the religious leader for "his personal attention to the tragedy of millions of Ukrainians."
The U.S. State Department has picked veteran diplomat Mark Lambert as its top China policy official, five sources familiar with the matter said, bringing in new leadership for a part of the department that has faced staffing problems and criticism over its handling of China-focused initiatives.

Lambert will likely be named as the deputy assistant secretary for China and Taiwan, the sources said, filling the post left in June by Rick Waters.

Waters had also served as the head of the Office of China Coordination  informally known as "China House"  a unit the department created late last year to meld China policies across regions and issues. Whether Lambert will assume the China House coordinator title is still being discussed, sources said.

Lambert's appointment is unlikely to change the tone of Washington's China policy, which President Joe Biden's administration says is one of "intense competition" while trying to increase engagement with Beijing to stabilize ties.

But Lambert, a well-regarded diplomat with experience in East Asia, is certain to influence China House, which has been criticized for adding layers of bureaucracy to an already complex decision-making process.

It was unclear when the State Department will formally announce the appointment.

"We have no personnel announcements to make at this time, but the Office of China Coordination remains an integral piece of the U.S. governments efforts to responsibly manage our competition with the People's Republic of China and advance our vision for an open, inclusive international system," a State Department spokesperson said in an emailed response to a request for comment.
Workers of Japanese automobile giant Toyota Motor assemble vehicles at the company's Motomachi plant near Nagoya, Japan on July 30, 2018.

Toyota Motor on Tuesday said it has suspended operations at all 14 of its assembly plants in Japan due to a production system malfunction, bringing domestic output to a standstill at the world's biggest-selling automaker.

The glitch is preventing Toyota from ordering components and its cause is under investigation, though it is "likely not due to a cyberattack," a spokesperson said.

Toyota suspended 12 plants in its home market from Tuesday morning and added the final two from the afternoon, the spokesperson said. It was unclear how much output would be lost.

The plants together account for about a third of the automaker's global production, Reuters calculations showed.

Toyota's domestic production had been on the rebound after a series of output cuts it blamed on semiconductor shortage. Output was up 29% in January-June, the first such increase in two years.

Its Japan output averaged about 13,500 vehicles daily in the first half of the year, Reuters calculations showed. That excludes vehicles from group automakers Daihatsu and Hino.

Operations were halted for a day last year when a supplier suffered a cyberattack, hampering Toyota's ability to order parts. Toyota resumed operations using a back-up network.
Former U.S. President Donald Trump gives a thumbs-up as he arrives at Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport in Atlanta, Georgia, on Aug. 24, 2023.

Other trials in criminal court, where he is charged with 91 felony counts, put him at risk of being sentenced to prison even before the GOP National Convention, scheduled for mid-July in Milwaukee.

One of those cases, a civil trial in New York, threatens to cripple the former president's company, the Trump Organization .

Donald Trump is headed into autumn facing an astonishing number of scheduled criminal and civil trials  six, with the distinct possibility of a seventh  within the next nine months as he seeks the Republican presidential nomination.

The trials are taking place across three states and the District of Columbia  sometimes within days of each other, and sometimes with the same lawyers involved.

Trump has said he is innocent or not at fault in all of the cases.

In a social media post on Tuesday, he wrote: "These Indictments and lawsuits are all part of my political opponents campaign plan."

"It is Election Interference, and they are going to use the DOJ/FBI to help them, which is illegal," Trump wrote in his Truth Social post. "Crooked Joe pushed this litigation hard to get it done. This is a new low in Presidential Politics. To the Democrats, I say, 'be careful what you wish for.' "

Here's the latest on where Trump's legal threats stand:

New York Attorney General's fraud lawsuit: Trial set to begin Oct. 2 in Manhattan Supreme Court

New York Attorney General Letitia James is suing Trump, the Trump Organization and Trump's sons Donald Trump Jr. and Eric Trump, alleging years of widespread fraud involving false financial statements related to the company's business.

James is seeking $250 million in damages in the civil case. She is also seeking to bar the Trump men individually from serving as officers of a company in New York and to bar the defendant corporate entities from doing business in the state.

The attorney general alleges that Trump "falsely inflated his net worth by billions of dollars."

James claims he did so to get more favorable loan and insurance terms for the Trump Organization, and to lower the company's tax liability.

Georgia election case: Trial of co-defendant Kenneth Chesebro set to begin Oct. 23 in Atlanta state court

Trump is charged with 13 felonies related to an alleged conspiracy to illegally interfere with Georgia's results in the 2020 presidential election and reverse his loss in the election to President Joe Biden.

Eighteen other people also were indicted in the case in Fulton County Superior Court, among them Trump's White House chief of staff Mark Meadows, and his former personal lawyer Rudy Giuliani.

Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis has asked a judge to set a March 4 trial date for Trump, who among other things is charged with violating the state's Racketeering Influenced and Corrupt Organizations, or RICO, law.

That date is likely off the table, given the fact that Trump's trial for a similar federal case was set Monday for the same date that Willis is seeking.

But a Fulton County judge could still soon schedule Trump's trial in the Georgia case for a date before the Republican convention and amid the GOP primary season.

In the meantime, one of Trump's 18 co-defendants in the case, lawyer Kenneth Chesebro, has been granted an Oct. 23 trial date after demanding a speedy trial.

Attorney Sidney Powell, another defendant, likewise has requested a speedy trial.

Trump faces the possibility of a minimum prison sentence of five years or more if convicted in the Georgia case.

E. Jean Carroll rape defamation lawsuit: U.S. District Court in Manhattan, Jan. 15 trial start

Trump is accused of defaming writer E. Jean Carroll in 2019, when he was president, and then again in May, when he made statements about her while denying her allegation that he raped her in a Manhattan department store in the mid-1990s.

In May, Carroll won $5 million in damages from Trump when a jury in the same court for another related civil lawsuit found that he had sexually abused her in the department store incident and defamed her in statements last fall.

Trump in recent weeks has suffered multiple setbacks in the case, now headed for trial.

District Judge Lewis Kaplan earlier this month dismissed Trump's defamation counterclaim against Carroll.

In July, the U.S. Department of Justice dropped a nearly three-year effort to protect Trump from civil liability in the suit.

The trial is due to start the same day as Iowa holds its presidential caucuses.

New York pyramid scheme lawsuit: U.S. District Court in Manhattan, Jan. 29 trial start

Trump and the Trump Organization, in this civil class-action case, are accused of making millions of dollars in secret payments by conning working-class Americans to invest in an allegedly fraudulent multilevel marketing company called American Communications Network from 2005 through 2015.

Trump allegedly told prospective investors that "ACN's flagship videophone was doing 'half-a-billion dollars worth of sales a year'" and that he had "experienced the opportunity" and "done a lot of research."

"None of this was true," according to the suit.

Roberta Kaplan, one of the lawyers suing Trump on behalf of four anonymous plaintiffs, is also the lead attorney for Carroll in her suits.

In May, three of Trump's children, Donald Trump Jr., Eric Trump, and Ivanka Trump, were dismissed as defendants from the case after Kaplan proposed that move.

Kaplan, at the time, said that the children's prior depositions in the suit "made clear that Donald J. Trump himself was the architect, principal actor and largest beneficiary of the fraudulent scheme to endorse and promote ACN in exchange for secret payments."

Federal election criminal case: U.S. District Court in Washington, D.C., March 4 trial start

Trump, early this month, was indicted on charges of illegally conspiring to overturn his loss to Biden in the national 2020 election.

Special counsel Jack Smith alleges Trump and unindicted co-conspirators sought to subvert democracy in multiple ways, including by trying to impede Congress from certifying Biden's election on Jan. 6, 2021.

Some legal experts have said that this case, the second federal criminal prosecution filed by Smith, poses the greatest threat to the former president.

As they have done in Trump's other cases, the former president's defense attorneys tried to push the federal election interference trial past the 2024 election  in this case, all the way to April 2026.

Judge Tanya Chutkan on Monday rejected that effort, instead scheduling the trial to begin March 4, a day before Super Tuesday, the biggest day of the presidential primary season.

The most serious felony in the case carries a maximum possible prison term of 20 years, although he likely would receive a lesser punishment if convicted.

Trump business records, porn star hush money criminal case: Manhattan Supreme Court, March 25 trial

A New York state grand jury made history this March when it voted to return the first-ever criminal charges against a U.S. president, current or former.

Trump is accused in the case of 34 counts of falsifying business records as part of an alleged scheme to pay hush money in 2016 to porn star Stormy Daniels and Playboy model Karen McDougal to keep them quiet about their claimed sexual liaisons with Trump.

The payments were made shortly before the 2016 presidential election, in which Trump defeated Democratic nominee Hillary Clinton.

Trump's former personal lawyer Michael Cohen, who pleaded guilty in federal court to facilitating both payments, is a key witness in the case against him.

The case, which is being prosecuted by Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg's office, largely centers on the money Cohen was reimbursed by Trump and his company for paying Daniels $130,000.

Trump's attorneys last month lost a bid to move the case to federal court.

Earlier this month, Kaplan, the federal judge in Carroll's case, ruled that Bragg could be given Trump's deposition from the civil case, raising the prospect that Trump's own words will be used against him in the criminal case.

Classified documents criminal case: U.S. District Court in Fort Pierce, Florida, May 20 trial start

Trump is charged with retaining hundreds of classified documents at his Palm Beach club Mar-a-Lago after he left the White House in early 2021 and trying to hide those records from government officials seeking their return.

Most of the 40 felony counts in the case  which is also being prosecuted by special counsel Smith's office  relate to Trump's alleged hoarding of national defense information.

But he also was charged with an attempt to delete security footage from the club after it was subpoenaed last summer.

Two co-defendants in the case  Trump's personal valet Walt Nauta and Mar-a-Lago maintenance worker Carlos De Oliveira  likewise are charged with conspiring to erase that footage.

That footage allegedly shows Nauta and De Oliveira moving around boxes containing classified documents.

The trial is set to begin two months before the Republican National Committee will select the next 2024 GOP presidential nominee.

The top charge in the case carries a maximum possible prison sentence of 20 years.
Finance Minister Choo Kyung-ho, right, visits a chip plant of Samsung Electronics in Pyeongtaek, Gyeonggi Province, April 7, in this photo released by the Ministry of Economy and Finance. Yonhap



The industry ministry said Tuesday it has requested a 1.3 percent rise in its budget for next year to spur semiconductors and other advanced sectors and boost exports.



The ministry sought a budget of 11.22 trillion won ($8.47 billion) for 2024, which also calls for providing greater support to help vulnerable groups with their energy bills, according to the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy.



Of the total, the ministry earmarked 5.14 trillion won for the industry sector, marking a 10.3 percent on-year fall.



"The government will further expand backing for advanced, strategic industry sectors, such as chips and secondary batteries, while pushing for the restructuring of state-backed projects," a ministry official said.



Another 4.79 trillion won will be set aside for efforts to strengthen energy security and for subsidies for vulnerable groups amid a recent sharp growth in utility rates.



The budget for energy vouchers will triple to 685.6 billion won in 2024 from this year's 190.9 billion, and the budget for small merchants to upgrade their air conditioning and heating systems will surge more than 200 percent to 163.4 billion won.



Major projects for energy security include the technology development for small modular reactors and the financial support for nuclear energy firms.



The ministry also pushed to raise the budget to support exports by 38.1 percent on-year to 1.11 trillion won next year amid growing uncertainties in the international trade environments.



Korea has been grappling with a slowdown in the growth of exports in recent months as the global economy has slowed. Exports are the country's key growth engine. (Yonhap)


Here are Tuesday's biggest calls on Wall Street: Wells Fargo reiterates Goldman Sachs as overweight Wells Fargo said it's standing by its overweight rating on the investment banking giant after Goldman Sachs said it was selling it's personal asset management unit. " Goldman continues to target wealth mgmt for growth, but directly through its higher-end Private Wealth segment." DA Davidson reiterates Amazon as buy DA Davidson said in a note Tuesday that examines events that may negatively affect Amazon shares that antitrust and regulatory issues could intensify. "We believe the walls are closing in on the company when it comes to antitrust/regulation as we consider a Federal Trade Commission (FTC) antitrust lawsuit against Amazon to be imminent." Morgan Stanley downgrades Farfetch to equal weight from overweight Morgan Stanley said it sees limited catalysts ahead for the stock. "We continue to have confidence in FTCH's LT opportunity and see a positively skewed risk/reward... but high volatility, a wider range of potential outcomes, and a limited catalyst path make it difficult to be OW the stock in the medium-term." UBS upgrades Oracle to buy from neutral UBS said Oracle has upside potential. "Our independent checks corroborated the notion that Oracle is benefiting from outsized allocations of Nvidia GPUs [graphic processing unit] relative to its size." Read more about this call here. Citi upgrades Verizon and AT & T to buy from neutral Citi said it sees "signs of stabilization" for the telecommunications stocks. "We are upgrading shares of VZ (target to $40) and T to Buy/High-Risk ratings. The wireless competitive environment is showing positive signs of stabilization that should help operating performance." Read more about this call here. JPMorgan removes Salesforce from the focus list JPMorgan removed Salesforce from its focus list but said it's sticking with its overweight rating ahead of earnings Wednesday. "Bookings Expectations, Pace of Business Still Muted; Technology Vision Trending Up." Wells Fargo upgrades Rockwell Automation to equal weight from underweight Wells Fargo upgraded the stock mainly on valuation. "We're upgrading ROK to EW on F24 earnings growth potential and relative valuation." Bernstein reiterates Airbnb as outperform Bernstein said investors should buy the dip in Airbnb shares. " Airbnb's stock is now down 15% since the 1st of August, and 10% since Q2 results, despite a relatively in line print, raised guidance for ADRs and margin, and many of the bear cases largely discredited in the quarter  we remain highly positive on the long term outlook and see this as a compelling entry point - Outperform." Redburn Atlantic reiterates Disney as sell Redburn Atlantic added the stock to its conviction sell list and says it sees too many negative catalysts. "Despite being a global media company that is home to some of the world's most enduring franchises, Disney continues to face difficulties in the ongoing transition to streaming." UBS reiterates Microsoft as buy UBS said supply chain constraints are manageable for Microsoft. "While Nvidia's print last week offered incremental comfort that it is addressing its supply chain constraints, this remains a risk to Microsoft that investors need to thoroughly assess and measure." Bank of America reiterates Palantir as buy Bank of America said the company is a key AI beneficiary. "Despite some recent pullback in the AI market sentiment, we continue to see Palantir (PLTR) as a key player in the generative AI market." Jefferies names Splunk a top pick Jefferies named Splunk a top pick and says the application technology company is a "double digit growth story." "A new leadership team, an overhaul to the operational strategy and activist involvement should improve investor sentiment; Very compelling valuation." Bank of America upgrades Futu Holdings to buy from underperform Bank of America upgraded the China and Hong Kong wealth management company and says it sees overseas growth. "With China regulations becoming more stable, sentiment and valuation at a trough level, and promising developments in HK and overseas markets, we now turn more positive on Futu. " Morgan Stanley reiterates Nvidia as overweight Morgan Stanley said Nvidia's blowout earnings report last week is positive for the AI supply chain. " NVIDIA issued upbeat October quarter guidance for revenue of US$16bn: That's well above Asia-based investors' expectations at US$13-15bn." Raymond James upgrades NextEra Energy Partners to outperform from market perform Raymond James said investors should buy the dip in shares of NextEra Energy Partners. "Having been on the sidelines year-to-date  and following most of 2022 with an Underperform rating  we are upgrading NEP from Market Perform to Outperform."
Russian President Vladimir Putin is currently "not envisaged" to attend the funeral of Yevgeny Prigozhin, leader of the Wagner mercenary group, according to Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov. The former ally-turned-traitor died in a plane crash on Wednesday.

The Vatican has meanwhile said Pope Francis did not intend to glorify Russian imperialism following backlash from a speech that the religious leader delivered on Friday. The Pope did not intend "to exalt imperialist logic," the Vatican said, after the spiritual leader told a group of Russian youths that they were "the heirs of the great mother Russia."

Heavy fighting continued in Ukraine's Kherson overnight, while Russian forces downed drones over the regions of Tula and Belgorod, according to official channels of each country.
South Korean Navy's destroyer Yulgok Yi I, , U.S. Navy's USS Benfold and Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force's JS Atago sail in formation during a joint naval exercise in international waters on April 17, 2023 at an undisclosed location.

SEOUL  The United States, South Korea and Japan staged joint naval missile defense drills off the Korean Peninsula on Tuesday, as North Korea accused Washington and its allies of creating "the most unstable waters with the danger of a nuclear war."

The three nations staged exercises in international waters off South Korea's southern Jeju island to improve their ability to detect and track targets, and share information in the event of provocation by Pyongyang, South Korea's military said.

The drills come as North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has called for "radically" modernizing the weapons and equipment of its naval forces, criticizing an increased presence of U.S. strategic assets in the region.

In a speech to mark Navy Day, Kim said the "gang bosses" of the United States, Japan and South Korea announced regular joint military exercises, news agency KCNA reported, apparently referring to their Aug. 18 summit at Camp David, Maryland.

"Owing to the reckless confrontational moves of the U.S. and other hostile forces, the waters off the Korean Peninsula have been reduced into the world's biggest war hardware concentration spot, the most unstable waters with the danger of a nuclear war," Kim was quoted by KCNA as saying.
Skyroot Aerospace, which launched India's first private rocket in 2022, aims to double its planned launches starting next year on a likely boost to the country's fledgling private space sector from the success of the Chandrayaan-3 moon mission.

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The Hyderabad-based company, backed by Singapore's sovereign wealth fund, GIC , is also aiming to raise more money by the end of next year, co-founder Pawan Kumar Chandana told Reuters in an interview.

"From 2024 and later, we're looking at at least two launches per year and will probably ramp up as we move further," said Chandana, whose company is set to send its second rocket to space by the end of the year.

Skyroot 's business ever since India became the first country to achieve a safe landing on the lunar south pole. Chandana, a former scientist at the Indian Space Research Organisation , said he was receiving "a lot of messages from global and domestic investors" who want to understand's business ever since India became the first country to achieve a safe landing on the lunar south pole.

The company conducted India's first private rocket launch looking to cut satellite launch costs in an industry fast getting crowded as various firms build out networks to deliver broadband services, which need small satellite launches.

Chandana said the company plans to ramp up its 280-member workforce by 20 percent in the next two years to support the expected increase in launches.

It is also planning a fundraising in 2024, more than the $51 million raised in its last round led by GIC, Chandana said, without giving further details.

"We're well funded for now. So, the next large fundraising round, the Series C round, will probably be in 2024 end," Chandana said.
A US judge on Monday dismissed most of a lawsuit where Germany's Commerzbank sought to hold Bank of New York Mellon liable for more than $1 billion of losses on toxic mortgages purchased before the 2008 global financial crisis.

US District Judge George Daniels in Manhattan rejected Commerzbank 's claims on all but 13 of the 100 certificates and notes it bought, and dismissed all negligence claims against BNY Mellon , which had been serving as trustee.

The securities had been issued from 72 residential mortgage-backed securities (RMBS) trusts and a collateralized debt obligation that had been backed by home loans from Countrywide, NovaStar and other lenders.

Dave Wollmuth, a lawyer for Commerzbank, declined to comment. A lawyer for BNY Mellon also declined to comment.

Investors suffered huge losses before, during and after the financial crisis on RMBS they once thought safe, prompting a slew of litigation against lenders, servicers and trustees over more than a decade.

Trustees handle back-office work after securities are sold, and ensure that investors receive payments.

They have long said their contracts shielded them from liability for RMBS losses, and that particularly sophisticated investors should have known the risks.

In its December 2015 complaint, Commerzbank accused BNY Mellon of sitting "idly" as losses piled up, rather than force lenders to buy back and servicers to address troubled loans.

Daniels, however, said Commerzbank lacked standing to sue over 76 securities because it sold them before suing, and waited too long under German law to sue over 11 other certificates.

He also said recent rulings including a June decision by New York state's highest court, the Court of Appeals, required dismissal of Commerzbank's negligence claims because they essentially duplicated its breach-of-contract claims.

The surviving claims cover 13 certificates that Commerzbank bought from Barrington II CDO Ltd, but only as to whether BNY Mellon acted as a "prudent person" following borrower defaults.

The case is Commerzbank AG v. The Bank of New York Mellon et al, US District Court, Southern District of New York, No. 15-10029.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, August 28)  The chief of the Armed Forces of the Philippines said Chinas proposed joint military exercises and patrols with the Philippines are unlikely to be held.

The proposed joint military exercises with the Philippines was pitched in July. However, details are still indefinite.

Gen. Romeo Brawner said the countrys memorandum of agreement on defense cooperation has been existing since 2004. Since then, the military has been sending over Filipino officers and enlisted personnel for schooling in China.

Although given Chinas aggression in the South China Sea, the government has halted sending over these officers.

Brawner also said China should stop what he called coercive and dangerous tactics in the disputed waters when the military are resupplying their stations in islands and occupied features like the Ayungin Shoal.

The military chief also says proposals from China could still be studied, reflecting President Marcos independent foreign policy.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, August 28)  The Land Transportation Office (LTO) suspended for 90 days the driver's license of the former police officer who drew a handgun on a cyclist in a viral road rage incident in Quezon City.

In a statement on Monday, LTO chief Vigor Mendoza II clarified that the suspension of Wilfredo Gonzales license to drive motor vehicles will be in effect while the investigation into the incident is ongoing.

"Ang ipinataw nating preventive suspension ay isang mabilis na aksyon mula sa inyong LTO upang matiyak na hindi na niya uulitin ang nangyaring pananakit at paglabas ng baril sa isang bicycle rider," Mendoza said.

[Translation: The preventive suspension that we have imposed is a quick action by LTO to ensure that he does not repeat the incident of assaulting and pulling a gun on a bicycle rider.]

"Hindi pa ito ang final decision. Kasalukuyang iniimbestigahan ang kasong ito at depende sa outcome ng pag-iimbestiga, maaring permanent revocation at lifetime na hindi na siya maiisyuhan ng driver's license," he added.

[Translation: This is not the final decision. This case is currently being investigated and, depending on the outcome of the investigation, there may be a permanent revocation and he may not be issued a driver's license for life.]

Mendoza pointed out that while Gonzales' inappropriate behavior was "glaring" in the video, the LTO respects Mendoza's right to due process.

Despite this, Mendoza emphasized that the LTO has the authority to suspend Mendoza's driver's license under Sec. 27 of R.A. 4136, in cases of grave offenses like the viral incident.

The LTO official said Gonzales will also be summoned to the LTO to explain why his driver's license should not be permanently revoked.

Mendoza said Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista was informed of LTO's action.

RELATED: PNP confiscates more guns from driver in viral road rage incident, revokes permits
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, August 29)  The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) filed a murder complaint against former Bureau of Corrections chief Gerald Bantag and six others over the death of an inmate, Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla said in a news briefing on Tuesday.

The inmate, Hegel Samson, was pronounced dead on November 7, 2020 at the National Bilibid Prison hospital.

The NBI conducted the autopsy and concluded that Samson died of heart attack which may be aggravated or hastened by asphyxiation.

Four inmates confessed to their participation, admitting that they placed a plastic bag over Samsons head.

One of the inmates claimed that Bantag asked him about a certain Leon Bilibid who was critical of him. Bantag allegedly instructed him to eliminate anyone associated with Leon Bilibid.

Samson supposedly criticized Bantag on social media for permitting contraband items, including alcohol, cigarettes, drugs, cellphones, and guns inside the National Bilibid Prison.

Ito yung may lumalabas sa socmed Leon Bilibid describing the mysterious happenings inside Bilibid kaya may nagalit sa kanya. Death by plastic, parang nangyari rin sa ating isang middleman noong araw na ating inimbestigahan sa Percy Lapid case, Remulla said.

[Translation: A certain Leon Bilibid appeared on social media describing mysterious happenings inside Bilibid so some people got mad. What happened is death by plastic, like what happened to one middleman that we investigated in the Percy Lapid case.]

Bantag is also charged for the murder of radio broadcaster Percy Lapid and alleged middleman Jun Villamor.

He is currently at large.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, August 29)  Signal No. 5, the highest wind signal, was hoisted over the northeastern portion of Babuyan Islands as Goring (international name: Saola) intensified again into a super typhoon, the state weather bureau said late Tuesday evening.

In its 11 p.m. bulletin, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said "violent, life-threatening conditions from typhoon-force winds are possible within any of the areas where Wind Signals No. 4 and 5 are hoisted, resulting in significant to extreme impacts."

Signal No. 4 is up over the southern portion of Batanes, and northwestern and southeastern portions of Babuyan Islands, while Signal No. 3 is raised over the rest of Batanes, rest of Babuyan Island, and extreme northeastern portion of mainland Cagayan.

Areas under Signal No. 2 are: northern and eastern portions of mainland Cagayan, northern portion of Ilocos Norte, northern portion of Apayao.

The northern and eastern portions of Isabela, and the rest of Ilocos Norte, Cagayan, Apayao, northern portion of Abra, and northern portion of Kalinga are also placed under Signal No. 1.

PAGASA said southwest monsoon enhanced by the super typhoon will bring occasional rains over the western portions of Central Luzon, Southern Luzon, and the Visayas over the next three days.

"Goring will bring typhoon-force conditions over most of Batanes and Babuyan Islands between tonight and tomorrow afternoon," the weather bureau said. "The super typhoon will be passing through the region at or near its peak intensity."

It is expected to pass very close or make landfall in the Babuyan Islands on Tuesday night or Wednesday early morning.

Goring was last seen over the coastal waters of Calayan, Babuyan Islands moving northwestward at 10 kilometers per hour (kph).

It was packing maximum sustained winds of 185 kph near the center and gustiness of up to 230 kph.

PAGASA said it may exit the Philippine Area of Responsibility on Wednesday evening or Thursday morning.

The bureau earlier forecast severe tropical storm Haikui to enter the PAR on Wednesday morning. It will be known locally as "Hanna."

READ: Potential typhoon may enter PAR this week

According to the latest report of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC), Goring has affected 19,370 families or more than 63,000 individuals.

Contrary to the latest NDRRMC report of zero casualties and injured persons, the Cagayan disaster response office logged two injured persons in the towns of Piat and Baggao.

The NDRRMC has also reported no agriculture damage. However, infrastructure damage left by Goring has climbed to 41,175,000.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, August 29)  It is a "welcome evolution" in geopolitics for the Philippines to seek alliances with European countries, including the United Kingdom, in areas of security and defense, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. told UK's visiting top diplomat on Tuesday.

UK Foreign Secretary James Cleverly paid a courtesy call on Marcos at the Malacanan Palace after his meeting with Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo.

"There is a shift for Europe to look post-pandemic to the region, to Asia, Southeast Asia, to begin with for the transformation of our economies, and to improve the positioning of all our economies, post-pandemic," Marcos told Cleverly.

"It is not traditional for us to look to Europe to seek alliances and partnerships when it comes to security and defense, but that seems to be the evolution, the geopolitics these days," the chief executive said.

Marcos added that it "is a welcome evolution in my view, and again your visit here I think, is a clear indication of that intent."

During their meeting, Manalo and Cleverly signed a statement of intent to "further elevate" the UK-Philippines Enhanced Partnership.

READ: PH, UK commit to further strengthen defense, maritime cooperation, other partnerships

The British foreign secretary said he had a "very good meeting" with his Philippine counterpart.

"It was really a kind of an audit of two countries that are, I think, instinctively, very much like-minded, with very, very similar attitudes to world affairs, and very similar appetites to try and make the most of the bilateral relationship as well as the UKs focus on Southeast Asia," he relayed to Marcos.

Cleverly expressed gratitude that the Philippines "has been supportive of the UK's positions," and for Manila's friendship and partnership.

He mentioned May Parsons, the Filipino nurse who administered the first COVID-19 vaccine in the UK, which showed "the real symbiotic relationship that we have with the two countries."

"I know that you are very focused on attracting inward investment into the country and Ive been discussing with our ambassador about UK export finance facility which I hope would encourage UK companies to invest more broadly," Cleverly said.

He said other areas where the two countries can "work very, very close together" are in climate change and renewable energy generation.

"So I see lots of opportunities to build on what is I think a really positive bilateral relationship," he added.
Minister of Employment and Labor Lee Jeong-sik, center, poses with Park Seung-hee, left, Samsung Electronics head of corporate relations, and other social welfare enterprises officials during the Samsung Hope Step 2.0 inauguration ceremony at The UniverSE in Yongin, Gyeonggi Province, Tuesday. Courtesy of Samsung Electronics



By Kim Hyun-bin



Samsung has initiated Samsung Hope Stepping Stone 2.0, a program aimed at supporting the economic independence of young people through employment in education. Samsung held the launch event for the program at Samsung Electronics' talent development institute known as The UniverSE in Yongin, Gyeonggi Province, Tuesday.



During the event, agreements were made with four organizations including the Ministry of Employment and Labor, the Ministry of Health and Welfare, the Community Chest of Korea and the Brighter Tomorrow Foundation to jointly operate the program.



Building upon the efforts of Samsung Hope Stepping Stone 1.0, which focused on the housing and emotional stability of young people, Samsung Hope Stepping Stone 2.0 is a program designed to support young individuals in building their technical and functional capabilities in order to achieve economic independence.



Logo for Samsung Electronics / Courtesy of Samsung Electronics
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, August 29)  Blended learning and an expanded program to assist eligible elementary students to pursue their secondary education in private schools can help address the country's classroom backlog, House Basic Education Committee Chair Rep. Roman Romulo said on Tuesday.

Classes resumed this month for 22 million students in the country as the perennial problem of classroom backlog continues, which is currently at 159,000.

READ: Public school students welcome new school year as gov't pilot tests decongested curriculum

Speaking to CNN Philippines The Source on Tuesday, Romulo pointed out that even if the government increases the budget for building of classrooms, the problem of where to put them remains as there is already limited space.

He said its time for the Department of Education (DepEd) to incorporate technology in classrooms through the implementation of blended learning, he said. To support this, the lower chamber has passed the Public Schools of the Future in Technology Act, he noted.

We ask DepEd in fact to start piloting distance learning for geographically isolated areas, just in case there is a typhoon because it really cant be just a classroom and then you have a teacher with a regular board, he noted. I think theres some technology that must be introduced to make it conducive to learning.

Not only will this make education more accessible, but it will also decongest classrooms across the country, the lawmaker said.

Aside from this, Romulo said authorities should continue implementing the expanded Government Assistance to Students and Teachers in Private Education (GASTPE) program, but they should make sure the quality of education is also maintained.

The GASTPE program aims to decongest public schools by providing financial assistance to eligible elementary students who wish to pursue their secondary education in private schools.

Romulo said that prior to the nationwide implementation of the K-12 program in 2016, DepEd distributed vouchers to students without properly assessing the quality of education of the private schools. This reflected in the results of the 2018 Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA), wherein the Philippines scored among the lowest in reading comprehension, mathematics, and science, he noted.

We dont want to fall into the same shortcomings that they did at that time, Romulo said.

The lawmaker also told the DepEd to work with the Department of the Interior and Local Government for the conduct of school mapping to know the number of private and public schools per area. Through this, authorities will be able to know where students can still enroll.
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Lee Seong-jun, center, head of SK Innovation's Institute of Environmental Science & Technology, poses with KAIST College of Business Professor Lee Ji-hwan, left, and Seoul National University Business School Professor Song Jae-yong, during a conference on the company's 40 years of R&D at SK Group's headquarters in Seoul, Monday. Courtesy of SK Innovation



By Park Jae-hyuk



SK Innovation's growth from a local oil refiner into a global green energy supplier is attributed to 40 years of the company's research and development (R&D) led by top management, according to Korea's renowned business experts, Tuesday.



During a conference at SK Group's headquarters in Seoul, Monday, Seoul National University Business School Professor Song Jae-yong and KAIST College of Business Professor Lee Ji-hwan said that SK Innovation's technologies acquired through its refining business contributed to its expansion into chemical, bio, lubricant, separator film and battery sectors.



In particular, Song and Lee emphasized that the management's leadership was the most important factor for SK Innovation's success, given that long-term investments are needed to continue R&D.



The professors mentioned the late SK Group Chairman Chey Jong-hyon, incumbent Chairman Chey Tae-won's father, recognizing him for his decision in 1982 to transform the oil refiner into a total energy company and for his establishment of an R&D facility in 1983.



They also explained that the incumbent chairman has stressed the importance of R&D, with the aim of becoming the leading company in the global green energy sector.



"R&D is the hope of the future, and without technological growth, it is impossible to achieve growth in business," the chairman said, according to the professors.



In addition, the professors said that the younger Chey has successfully directed SK Group's battery and biotech businesses, both of which were launched by his father in the 1980s. As a result, the chairman was recognized for allowing the group to be competitive in its three core businesses  batteries, bio and semiconductors.



Considering the importance of international cooperation for futuristic green energy and materials businesses, Song and Lee gave favorable comments on SK Innovation's establishment of an open innovation center in Silicon Valley in 2022.



"SK Innovation is expected to enhance its corporate value over the next 40 years by creating its own identity," the professors said in a press release.



Lee Seong-jun, head of SK Innovation's Institute of Environmental Science & Technology, said that the latest conference proved that the company's corporate value has been growing continuously through its ceaseless R&D.



"Achieving the goal of 'all-time net-zero' through innovative R&D, we will grow into a global leader in the green energy sector," he said.




Googles Duet AI is now generally available, bringing the generative AI assistant to its range of Workplace productivity apps, the company announced on Tuesday. The Duet AI features will cost $30 per user each month, putting the tool's price in line with rival Microsofts upcoming Copilot.

Duet AI uses genAI to assist users accessing various Workspace products. For example, it can write draft texts in Google Docs based on user prompts, generate email responses in Gmail, and organize data in the Sheets spreadsheet app. It can also take notes and summarize conversations in the Meet videoconferencing tool.

Google initially unveiled plans to add AI features to its Workspace products in March based on its large language models, promising to increase productivity by automating rote tasks. Since the Google I/O event in May, Duet AI has been accessible in public preview to users in geographies with access to a Google Workspace Labs waitlist.

Googles Duet AI features are now available as an add-on for customers on the Google Workspace Enterprise pricing tier for an additional $30 per user each month. Thats a significant cost  although Google doesnt publish enterprise tier pricing publicly, its believed to be between $27 and $36 per user per month; adding access to the AI features roughly doubles the cost per user each month.

Google plans to make the product available to customers in other tiers in the coming months, a spokesperson told Computerworld. A free trial is also available, though Google didnt immediately respond to a request for details on the terms of the trial.

Duet AI is available to English-speaking users everywhere that Google Workspace is sold, a Google spokesperson said; support for other languages is coming available later.

Google Duet AI can help create a summary from relevant source documents and then automatically build a presentation in Slides.

The launch of Duet AI means Google has beaten Microsoft to market with genAI tools for its office software suite. Microsoft is currently trialing its own Copilot AI assistant for Microsoft 365 applications such as Word, Excel and Teams. The Microsoft 365 Copilot, based on OpenAIs ChatGPT, will also cost $30 per user each month when its made available later this year or in early 2024.

Google's choice to price Duet at $30 is surprising, given that it's the same price as Microsoft Copilot, said J. P. Gownder, vice president and principal analyst on Forrester's Future of Work team. Both offerings promise to improve employee productivity, but Google Workspace is positioned as a lower-cost alternative to Microsoft 365 in the first place. Its products contain perhaps 70% to 80% of the features of their counterparts in the Microsoft 365 office programs suite.

However, as with Microsofts genAI feature, Gownder expects Duet will provide customers with improvements around productivity and employee experience, even if its too early to make firm judgements on either product.

Duet, like Microsoft 365 Copilot, will help usher in a new era of productivity and collaboration software experiences, said Gownder, enabling employees to converse with the software using complex natural language commands. That functionality reduces the friction between humans and software and will accrue productivity benefits over the medium to long run."

The Duet pricing reflects Googles confidence in the impact its generative AI features will have for knowledge worker productivity, said Raul Castanon, senior analyst at 451 Research, a division of S&P Global Market Intelligence. Still, he believes businesses should take a cautious approach to investing in generative AI tools.

While [the use cases for genAI in Workspace apps] should justify the price per user, we can expect a steep learning curve for some employees, Castanon said. Companies may want to consider deploying in waves, starting with power users and gradually expanding to the rest of their employee base as they bring them up to speed with these new capabilities.

Nick Patience, lead analyst for AI and machine learning for 451 Research, also weighed in, saying the Google genAI tool launch ahead of Microsoft is unlikely to affect eventual uptake of either product. But the addition of genAI features into these widely used office software suites could affect demand for more specialized GenAI vendors.

"One set of companies who may well be worried about this, however, are the text-generation specialists, who offer tools to do things like write a blog post, or write a convincing email subject line, etc.," Patience said. "Those features are rapidly being build into both Google Workplace and Microsoft 365, leaving those specialist vendors companies with a much reduced USP."

Google also talked up new Duet AI capabilities at its Google Cloud Next conference now under way in San Francisco. (This year's event marks the first time it's been held in-person since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020.)

There are several new Duet AI features for Google Meet. They include the ability to take notes and create actions during a video call with the takes notes for me feature; a summary so far option that provides a quick update on meeting discussions; and an attend for me option that provides a summary for those unable to join a meeting.

Google Google Chat gets an updated UI and new huddles to connect with colleagues and meet for impromptu gatherings.

In Google Chat, users can interact with a Duet AI chatbot that responds to queries about content thats been shared in the team messaging application; users can also request a summary of missed conversations and documents shared in a teams space.

Other updates to Chat announced Tuesday include a new user interface, with updated search functionality and the addition of huddles, a lightweight audio and video meeting tool within Chat  similar to Slacks Huddles feature  that users can start in Chat with one click.

There was no update, however, from Google on a release date for Sidekick  announced at Googles I/O even in May  a chatbot assistant that summarizes information across Workspace apps.

Alongside the potential to boost productivity, genAI tools can pose risks to the security and privacy of corporate data. Google stressed that customer data will not be used to train the LLMs used with its genAI functionality.

LLMs have been known to provide inaccurate information  sometimes referred to as hallucinations  that could be problematic when handling important business data. Google declined to provide details around any tools for admins to filter genAI content generated for Workspace users.

Duet AI is described by Google as always on, but admins have the ability to switch the functionality off for users, a spokesperson said.




The industry ministry said Tuesday it signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Samsung Electronics, SK hynix and other chip firms to cooperate on technology development for advanced semiconductor packaging.







Under the MOU, the government and chipmakers agreed to work together to secure leading technologies in advanced semiconductor packaging and to nurture companies in the final steps of semiconductor manufacturing, according to the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy.







The agreement was signed by the two Korean chip giants, as well as LG Chem, several outsourced semiconductor assembly and test firms and fabless companies, it added.







The Korean government is pushing for new research and development projects in the advanced packaging field and the system semiconductor sector to lead the global market.







Advanced packaging requires state-of-the-art technologies, and it is gaining momentum as the next technological breakthrough in line with the growing demand for multifunctional devices. (Yonhap)


A growing need for support

Community care

Many para counselors are uniquely positioned to empathize with the people they serve as they go door to door, building awareness. This is crucial because it creates a bottom-up system of care without prescribing what well-being should look like, Chris Henderson, a specialist on education in emergencies, says.

At the same time, by supporting others, mental health providers are learning to take care of themselves.

Learning by doing For months, Suchitra Rani watched violence against Rohingya people every time she turned on the news. When she was recruited by BRAC to become a para counselor in Coxs Bazar, she saw an opportunity to make a difference. Alongside fellow trainees, Rani, a social worker originally from Magura, poured over new words she learned in the foreign Rohingya dialect and worked to find her place in the community.

Rani tested what she had learned about the value of psychosocial support and cultural sensitivity when she met a 15-year-old Rohingya girl too scared to tell her single mother she was pregnant. Terrified of bringing shame to the family, the girl had an abortion at home. As the young woman spiraled into depression, Rani felt herself slipping into her own fears of inadequacy.

It took time for Rani to convince the girl to open up to her mother. Talking through feelings of guilt slowly led to acceptance. As they worked to heal fractured family bonds, Rani began to feel surer of herself, too.

Toward empowerment

A Rohingya woman tells a forum of peer counselors the story of her divorce. A survivor of domestic abuse, she has started a new life alone with her daughter. She has weathered a storm of neighbors telling her she was the problem. Now, she provides the support she didnt have to other women like her.Similar scenes occur across refugee camps in Coxs Bazar. Here, BRAC, an international NGO based in Bangladesh, has developed a program to train counselors who can provide mental health services to Rohingya refugees. This includes 200 community members who have begun to practice the psychosocial skills theyve learned in their own lives.Over 900,000 Rohingya have fled to Coxs Bazar since massive-scale violence against Rohingya in Myanmars Rakhine State began in 2017, the UN Refugee Agency reports. The prolonged exposure of the ethnic minority group to persecution and displacement has likely increased the refugees vulnerability to an array of mental health issues, a 2019 systematic review found. Their struggles include post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, and gender-based violence.Around the world, there is growing attention to the importance of socio-emotional learning as a skill to help people in areas of crisis cope with challenges. Educators are often tasked not only with providing traditional academic instruction but with building resilience in children. They are asked to create a sense of normalcy in environments that are anything but normal.Its about not only teaching [kids] how to read and how to do mathematics  in these settings, kids and teachers themselves have the need for psychosocial support, Ramya Vivekanandan, the senior education specialist at the Global Partnership for Education, said.Teachers, caregivers, and frontline mental health providers are overburdened, Vivekanandan explains. They lack adequate pay, working conditions, and professional development. As they try to support the growing number of people in crisis, who will support them?For some counselors in Coxs Bazar, the answer is each other.Even when resources are available, stigmas around mental health can prevent support from being received. Taifur Islam, a Bangladeshi psychologist responsible for mental health training and supervision at BRAC, says people in the communities he works with are rarely taught to identify their feelings. When you are struggling to access basic needs, Islam explains, it is easy to forget that emotional well-being can improve productivity. If a person seeks help, they may be labeled crazy.Training people to take care of their own communities can be a powerful way to overcome stigma in a culturally relevant way.BRACs Humanitarian Play Labs were established in 2017 to give Rohingya children a safe space to practice socio-emotional skills through play. Erum Mariam, the executive director of the BRAC Institute of Educational Development, explains that each play lab is tailored to fit the community it serves. Rohingya children now rhyme, chant, and dance in 304 Humanitarian Play Labs across the camps in Coxs Bazar.We discovered the Rohingya culture through the children. And the whole model is based on knowing the culture, Mariam said.Play leaders are recruited from the camps and trained in play pedagogy. Mariam watched Rohingya women who had never worked before embracing their new roles. As they covered the ceilings of their play spaces with rainbows of flowersthe kind of tapestry that would hang from their homes in MyanmarMariam realized that a new kind of social capital could be earned by nurturing joy. Traditional play didnt just help uprooted children shape their sense of identityit was also healing for the community.If a play leader notices a child is withdrawn or restless, they can refer the child to a para counselor who has been trained by BRACs psychologists to address the mental health needs of children and their family members. Almost half of the 469 para counselors in Coxs Bazar are recruited from the Rohingya community, while the rest come from around Bangladesh. Most para counselors are women.Now, the Rohingya community calls Rani a sister of peace. Rani says she has become confident in her ability to use the socio-emotional skills shes learned to both help others and resolve problems in her personal life.Throughout the program, para counselors have changed the way they communicate their feelings and felt empowered to create more empathetic environments.Islam recounts a 26-year-old Rohingya refugees perilous journey to Coxs Bazar: In Myanmar, the womans husband was killed in front of her. One of her two young children drowned during a river crossing as they fled the country. She arrived at the camp as a single mother without a support network. Only once she had the support of others willing to listen could she speak openly.Islam remembers counselors telling the woman about the importance of self-care: If you actually take care of yourself, then you can take care of your child also.According to Henderson, evidence shows that one of the best ways to support someone is to give them a role to help others. In places where there may be a stigma against prioritizing self-care, people with their own post-crisis trauma are willing to learn well-being skills to help children.A collection of teacher stories collected by the Inter-agency Network for Education in Emergencies reveals a similar pattern. Teachers in crisis areas around the world say the socio-emotional skills they learned to help students helped them reduce stress in their own lives, too.Henderson suggests that the best way international agencies can promote trauma support is by holding up a mirror to the strength already shown by refugee communities like the Rohingya.Instead of seeing what they lack, Henderson encourages humanitarian professionals to help give frontline teachers, caregivers, and counselors the agency to actualize their own ideas for improvement. Empowered community leaders empower the young people they work with, who, in turn, learn to empower each other. This creates systems where everyone sees their position of leadership as supporting the next persons leadership and resilience.At the end of her para counselor training, the Rohingya domestic abuse survivor said she wasnt sure what she would do with the skills shed learned for working through trauma, Islam remembers. But she did say she wished they were skills she had known before. According to Islam, she is now one of their best para counselors.The training is not only to serve the community; that training is something that can actually change your life, Islam says. Its why he became a psychologist.---
Further, existing and new member countries of BRICS are also involved in several other world forums where deliberations take place on any particular matter that may not be palatable to one or other member countries of BRICS.

If one would carefully look into the discussions in the recent BRICS meeting at Johannesburg, it would become clear that the tone of speeches made by the leaders were cosmetic and concealed more than what they revealed. The proceedings appear to be a routine exercise with usual handshakes and bordering on boredom for the onlookers.

India and China are two members of BRICS and both these countries have really hostile relationships these days and the military of both these countries are facing each other on the border and bloody military conflicts have taken place several times resulting in loss of lives and injuries on both the sides.



Tone of speeches by leaders at BRICS meet were cosmetic and concealed more than what they revealed As a matter of fact, when Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Chinese President Xi in Johannesburg in person for discussions, eyebrows were raised in India and many in India thought that Modi should have avoided this meeting with Chinese President. Further, after this meeting, there is a controversy as to who sought this meeting whether India or China. China says that the meeting was sought by India and India disagrees.

Russia is another member of BRICS and Russian President has avoided visiting Johannesburg, probably thinking that attending BRICS meeting was not a matter of priority. It is widely known that Russia and China, two member countries of BRICS are forming sort of axis to confront the NATO countries and USA in several ways. Other member countries of BRICS namely India Brazil and South Africa certainly would not be comfortable with such axis.

In such circumstances, what sort of cooperation that can take place between the member countries of BRICS? Obviously, leaders of member countries of BRICS go through the formality of meeting to keep the BRICS alive for whatever it is worth.

Member countries will take decisions on various matters depending upon their own self interests and will not be influenced by the stand of the other BRICS nations. This Johannesburg meeting of BRICS has achieved nothing worthwhile and it would not have mattered if Johannesburg meeting have not taken place at all.

---

*Trustee, Nandini Voice For The Deprived, Chennai India says that China is occupying thousands of kilometres of Indian territory. China is claiming Arunachal Pradesh in India as Chinese territory. In several international forums, China has opposed India on several counts. It is certainly farcical to think that both these countries can cooperate in the BRICS forum.

With the United Nations Organisation steadily losing its relevance and no more enjoying the confidence of the world community that it can ensure world peace and international cooperation there is widespread view that UNO General Assembly is now only a discussion forum.In such circumstances, several international forums have been formed over the years such as NATO, G 20, G7 QUAD, SAARC, ASEAN, Organisation of Islamic Cooperation ( OIC), African Union ( A U ) Shanghai Cooperation Organisation, OPEC and so on. All these bodies meet periodically and discuss various issues without any reference to UNO.BRICS is one such forum and the five member countries meet at regular intervals like every other above mentioned forums and the recent meeting took place at Johannesburg. What is particularly surprising is that while BRICS over the last several years is not known to have achieved anything tangible, it is reported that a few other countries have expressed interest in joining BRICS.A few of the interested countries have been shortlisted to join BRICS. It is not clear as to what is the criteria for admitting a few countries in BRICS and not enlisting other interested countries.
Hyundai Motor's unionized workers chant at the carmaker's cultural center in Ulsan, Aug. 23, after passing a resolution to launch a strike. Courtesy of Hyundai Motor's union



By Park Jae-hyuk



Korea's largest carmaker, steelmaker and major shipbuilders face the threat of strikes by unionized workers, which could lead to a major setback in the country's efforts to achieve an economic recovery by boosting exports, according to industry officials, Tuesday.



Hyundai Motor's union, which is affiliated with the Korean Confederation of Trade Unions (KCTU), won the legal right to strike, Monday, after 88.9 percent of its members agreed to down tools and the National Labor Relations Commission stopped arbitrating between the carmaker's laborers and management due to considerable differences in key areas of collective bargaining talks.



The last time the automaker's workers downed tools was five years ago.



Unionized workers are calling on Hyundai Motor to extend the retirement age from 60 to 64, as workers retiring after 2033 will be able to start receiving the national pension when they become 65 years old.



The union is also demanding a 184,900 ($140) increase in the monthly base wage, performance-based bonuses equivalent to 30 percent of last year's net income and additional incentives amounting to 900 percent of each employee's monthly base salary.



Hyundai Motor Executive Vice President Lee Dong-seok asked workers to return to talks on Monday morning and the union leaders will decide whether to accept the request during a meeting on Wednesday.



"Considering the union's previous strikes in 2016 and 2017, the envisioned walkout is expected to reduce the company's revenue by 4.2 trillion won and its quarterly operating profit by 1 trillion won," KB Securities analyst Kang Seong-jin said. "If the union and management fail to reach an agreement by the Chuseok holidays, the strike could be protracted."





Unionized workers chant at POSCO's steel mill in Pohang, North Gyeongsang Province, in this April file photo. Courtesy of POSCO's union
Star Wars is such an overwhelming pop culture juggernaut that it's easy to forget that the first film was made with a relatively meager budget and less-than-enthusiastic support from the studio. In fact, many of the film's dazzling effects were thrown together using discarded ideas, old dolls, toy model kits, and a coat of shitty paint. Basically, Star Wars was built on a mountain of garbage and happy accidents.

For example ...

5 The Iconic Death Star Trench Battle Was Invented By A Lazy Model Maker Lucasfilm The Meridian Trench that wraps around the Death Star is not only the setting of one of the most thrilling climactic sequences in cinematic history; it's also responsible for a generation of adults who still daydream about unrealistic space dogfights to this day. And it wouldn't have existed at all, had it not been for a single model maker feeling a bit lazy one afternoon in the early 1970s. Lucasfilm

To be fair, he was only mimicking the laziness of the Death Star's fictional designer. Although virtually none of his work appears on film, model maker and spaceship designer to the gods Colin Cantwell was instrumental in the early pre-visualization days of Star Wars. You see, before many of the iconic vessels/future action figures featured in Star Wars found their way to the big screen, Cantwell built concept models for George Lucas to hold in his hands and study, which is a term here meaning "run around the house while making race car noises." This included an early model of the Death Star, but there was a glaring problem with Cantwell's model: The material Cantwell used to form the Death Star's iconic "that's no moon" shape had a tendency to shrink, which caused the two dome-shaped halves of the model to not quite meet up in the middle, leaving an unsightly gap around its equator. Kitbashed Advertisement

"Don't shame me. #RealSpaceStations #RealBodies" Cantwell had previous experience with this precise issue, but in order to fix it, he would have to fill that goddamn seam with putty and sand it smooth, which is something he absolutely did not want to do, because it would take a super long time and there was beer to be drunk. So, he called up George Lucas and suggested that George rewrite the final battle scene in Star Wars to include a thrilling sequence in the giant crack in his model that was totally part of the original design and in no way just a mistake that he didn't feel like fixing. Cantwell pitched the idea of a "ditch" around the Death Star that the heroic Rebel pilots had to dive and swoop and swish their way through, breathlessly avoiding heavy armaments on their way to the final attack point. Prior to that, the now-famous exhaust port was an obvious but well-guarded hole that the Rebels would just swarm around, like flies at a picnic table. Lucas agreed that Cantwell's pitch sounded way better (because, Cantwell's motives aside, it does), at which point Cantwell presumably wrote "DONE!" on a sticky note, slapped it on his Death Star model, and went out to get hammered. Advertisement

4 Models Were Created With Off-The-Shelf Toys Lucasfilm For kids growing up in the '70s, life was full of such wonders as Planet Of The Apes, Land Of The Lost, and The Six Million Dollar Man ... that is, before Star Wars came along and stomped all of that crap out like a campfire. Incidentally, Steve Austin, The Six Million Dollar Man himself, made a cameo in the very movie that would usurp his merchandising empire. Or, at least, his action figure did. The Bionic Wiki / Bay News 9 Advertisement

Obi-Wan lost his eye in a tragic drunken lightsaber-juggling incident. To create the human figures occupying the miniature of Luke's landspeeder, 98th-level visual effects wizard Lorne Peterson looked for a quick and dirty alternative to actually sculpting wee versions of Luke and Obi-Wan, and he found it in the form of two Steve Austin action figures, which he mildly disguised with tiny Luke and Obi-Wan robes and stuffed into the vehicle. Although it looks downright ludicrous from the front, it totally worked in the film because the prop was shot only from far away or from behind, and for only short durations. Which is a good thing, because miniature Luke isn't wearing any pants. Sideshow Collectors Advertisement

And Obi-Wan doesn't have any fucking legs. But in the quest to cut corners, nothing beats this next example. First, a quick lesson in special effects history: Pre-CGI model makers used a process called kitbashing, wherein they'd plunder store-bought model kits (typically tanks and military aircraft) for high-tech-looking plastic bits, which they'd then glue together into even more high-tech-looking plastic bits to make a good-looking model for the film. But you know what makes this easier? When stores start selling models from your actual franchise. That's right -- once the original Star Wars became an honest-to-goodness phenomenon, there were tons of Star Wars model kits on the shelf of every single toy store in America that could be easily kitbashed for the sequels. In at least one confirmed case, an entire off-the-shelf X-wing model kit was used for Return Of The Jedi. It's not even really fair to call this a case of kitbashing, because all Lucasfilm did was simply give the model a metal support structure, paint on some grime, and call it special effects genius. Star Wars Collectors Archive Fantastic Plastic Advertisement

Of course, the real genius was whoever drew Luke's face on that box. Said X-wing has been positively identified by the hobby community as an off-the-shelf MPC kit by "tells," such as its uniquely gaunt underbelly, the orientation of its laser cannon tips, and probably the words "Made in China" stamped on there somewhere. Advertisement
Cutting yourself open to plop a replacement organ into your failing body sounds like a horror story when you think about it, but youll probably just be scared of the transplant failing. You know that the surgery, like all surgery, comes with a risk of death, and you also risk your body rejecting the foreign organ. If you can get past those hurdles, youve won, and now, youve got nothing to worry about.

Or so youd think. Maybe, however, youll be one of the unlucky few for whom the biggest horror is still to come.

5 Maybe Youll Get Accused of Your Donors Crimes The following story happened in 2004 in Alaska, a place that  purely by virtue of the temperature  is a great setting for crime stories. Detectives were investigating a sexual assault, and as a routine part of this, they compared the DNA profile from a semen sample with their criminal DNA database. Usually, theres no match. This time, there was. Apparently, they had their man. Just one problem. The man had a pretty good alibi: Hed been in prison on the night of the crime. If he hadnt been, theyd surely have had enough evidence to put the cuffs on him no matter what he claimed, but now, theyd have to figure out what really happened. Matthew Ansley/Unsplash Maybe the assault happened in that very prison?

Haha, no, then police wouldnt bother investigating it. Heres one obvious theory: The man had an identical twin. But no, that wasnt it. He did have a brother, and the detectives found that this brother was a likely suspect  but that didnt explain the DNA match, as it was exact match, not a matter of familial DNA. The brother was indeed the culprit. The brother had also previously donated bone marrow to the prisoner, and thanks to that transplant, the prisoners blood contained his brothers DNA as well as his own. Other marrow transplants completely change the recipients blood DNA into the donors. Even the recipients semen can change totally to the donors DNA, which mean the reverse of the Alaska case might happen and the donor might be on the hook for where the recipient unlawfully squirts his fluids. Advertisement Moreover, the question of whose DNA is really in a guys semen can get even more complicated when we try transplanting something other than marrow

4 You Might Father Your Donors Children We have good news for all men who get injured horribly while slicing salami naked. We now have the science to totally transplant a penis and scrotum from a donor to someone who wants new ones. Consider the case of an Afghanistan vet, who got his genitals (and legs) clear blown off by an IED. He received a transplant, and a year later, he was peeing standing up and experiencing the sort of pleasurable erections that gave him a reason for getting up in the morning. New England Journal of Medicine Detailed photos are available, but were just going to share this clinical diagram with you. Advertisement Such a transplant prompts a dilemma, though. If this man, upon regaining full sexual function, were to put his genitals to their full use and impregnate someone, the offspring would not be his, genetically. Genetically, they would the offspring of the donor. This wasnt an issue in the case we mentioned earlier, of the bone marrow recipient. The DNA in that guys semen changed, but hed also had a vasectomy. A mere marrow transplant couldnt make him produce another mans sperm, but a testicle transplant could. Advertisement With the case of our Afghanistan vet, the doctors neatly dodged the issue. When harvesting organs from the donor, they went with dissecting the testes off of the skin and leaving them in-situ, transplanting a scrotum with nothing inside it. So, hes not fathering anyones kids anytime soon, but hes still orgasming all over the place and reporting substantial improvements in pleasure scores. Advertisement

3 Rabies! One of the more outlandish medical cases on the show Scrubs involved a patient who died and donated organs to three other patients. In the hurry to get the transplants done, the hospital skipped one optional step: testing the organs for rabies. As a result, all three recipients caught incurable rabies and died. This was, by the way, the shows best episode, even better than that one that other people say is the best. NBC It also has a solid B story, about Todd being horny. The crazy part, though, was that this wasnt an outlandish fictional case at all. It was based on a real case, from just a couple years earlier. An Arkansas man died in 2004, his family agreed to donate his organs and a hospital harvested his lungs, kidneys and liver. Four patients received organs from the man, and three of them caught rabies and died. The fourth, the liver recipient, happened to have been vaccinated against rabies. Advertisement Scrubs took some artistic license with what makes sense in such a situation, but the most dramatic part of the story, where they transplanted a rabid kidney, was true to life. As important as kidneys are, the operations usually arent urgent, so this bad transplant was truly avoidable. Advertisement

2 Inheriting Their Allergies A 42-year-old woman received a lung transplant, and things seemed to be going fine. Seven months later, when she was at a support meeting for people whove had transplants, she ate a peanut butter cookie. Her lips swelled up, she broke out in hives and her heart rate shot up to 122. As they rushed her to the emergency room, doctors observed what looked like a clear allergic reaction. Only, shed never been allergic to peanuts before the transplant. Alexander Grey/Unsplash Nor had she been allergic to cookies in general. Advertisement The issue was that the lung donor had been allergic to peanuts, and so, the recipient would now have to live with this peanut allergy for some time. Of course, a peanut allergy isnt such a severe handicap, compared with the condition that necessitated the transplant. Still, its eerie. Mainly because the 12-year-old whose lungs now breathe for her didnt merely have a peanut allergy. He died from anaphylactic shock after ingesting some peanuts.
From Superbad to The Blues Brothers to Tommy Boy to Step Brothers, the buddy comedy is one of Hollywoods most sure-fire formulas for comedy success. But Tinseltown has still found plenty of ways to screw up this classic setup. Netflix in particular seems determined to lower the buddy-comedy batting average, mainly by pairing Kevin Hart with anyone (Woody Harrelson, Mark Wahlberg, Wesley Snipes) who is willing to cash one of those sweet streaming paychecks.

What are other examples of friendship gone profoundly unfunny? Here are five buddy comedies we absolutely love to hate

Click right here to get the best of Cracked sent to your inbox.

5 The Man If you have only one chance to see a Samuel L. Jackson/Eugene Levy buddy comedy, try not to make it The Man (even though, technically, its the only Samuel L. Jackson/Eugene Levy buddy comedy). Jackson is a badass cop and Levy is Eugene Levy  thats pretty much all you need to know about the plot. At what point do you know that a movie isn't just bad, its off-the-scale, surrender-all-hope, no-turning-back bad? asked the Toronto Star. Ebert & Roepers Richard Roeper could barely muster the effort to type his review: So tired.

4 Wild Hogs Advertisement Advertisement If two buddies are funny, four should be extra crispy, right? Not if you put midlife (and mid-career) crisis Tim Allen, John Travolta, William H. Macy and Martin Lawrence on Harleys and send them out on the open road in search of their missing testosterone. Protect your brain and avoid what The Guardian called a mind-sodomisingly mediocre family comedy.

3 Wild Wild West Advertisement Advertisement Now heres an interesting pair of buddies  Kevin Kline and Will Smith as Secret Service agents in the Old West. But it isnt long before the film is overwhelmed by steampunk special effects  by the time the monstrous mechanical spider shows up, you know this throwback farce has descended into the depths of comedy hell. The Orlando Sentinel didnt hold back: It's the disappointment of the summer, the worst TV adaptation in recent memory and, almost needless to say, a fiasco of cosmic proportions.

2 Stuck on You Advertisement Advertisement Buddies dont get much closer than Matt Damon and Greg Kinnear, brothers who are literally joined at the hip er, general shoulder area? Bad taste comes with the territory when youre talking Farrelly Brothers movies, but this one lays on the treacly sentiment without the compensatory laughs. A strangely lackluster, flaccid string of fitfully humorous episodes, panned Seattle Times.
Hong Seung-hyun, center, head of Materials Research & Engineering Center at Hyundai Motor Group, poses after signing an agreement to produce eco-friendly hydrogen technology in Seoul, Tuesday. From left are Youm Kyung-seop, executive director of Resource Circulation Technology Research Center at Landfill Site Management Corp, Hong, and Park Koo-yong, Hyundai Engineering & Construction. Courtesy of Hyundai Motor Group



By Kim Hyun-bin



Hyundai Motor Group (HMG) and Landfill Site Management Corp. signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to collaborate on eco-friendly hydrogen production technology in Seoul, Tuesday.



HMG is moving towards clean hydrogen production by using biogas generated from food waste treatment processes. Biogas is a gas mixture consisting of methane and carbon dioxide produced by the decomposition of organic matter in an oxygen-deprived environment.



"We plan to advance as a global carbon neutrality leader by developing high-value-added technologies such as renewable synthetic fuels and environmentally friendly plastic internal materials," Hong Seung-hyun head of Materials Research & Engineering Center at Hyundai Motor Group said.



Among the attendees at the ceremony were Vice President Hong Seung-hyun, Park Koo-yong, Hyundai Engineering & Construction and Head of Technology Research Center, and Youm Kyung-seop at Landfill Site Management Corp.



The agreement aims to establish a system capable of producing 216 kilograms of environmentally friendly hydrogen daily using biogas produced by the corporation over the next two years. This amount of hydrogen is sufficient to charge more than 34 Hyundai's hydrogen fuel cell electric NEXO vehicles.



Biogas, primarily composed of methane, is generated through the fermentation of food waste. Following purification and reforming processes, it becomes possible to produce high-purity clean hydrogen. The recent attention to circular hydrogen production technology is due to its ability to produce environmentally friendly energy sources using waste materials.



Under this agreement, Hyundai Motor and Kia will establish an integrated system for catalytic reaction processes, Hyundai Engineering & Construction will develop gas selection and separation technology for hydrogen production, and Landfill Site Management Corp. will research biogas preprocessing technology and provide research sites and facilities related to biogas, a raw material for hydrogen production.



Furthermore, Hyundai Motor Group aims to enhance its capacity for environmentally friendly hydrogen production and also plans to research the production of synthetic e-fuels. The idea is to apply the additional renewable synthetic fuels obtained during hydrogen production to conventional internal combustion engine vehicles.


The Metropolitan Police Service (MPS) is investigating a possible data breach following "unauthorised access" to the systems of one of its suppliers. The company had access to names, ranks, photos, vetting levels, and pay numbers for officers and staff, the force said in a statement. The MPS, which is responsible for law enforcement in the greater London area, has taken security measures as a result, with the matter reported to the National Crime Agency (NCA) and the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO).

The disclosure came just a few weeks after the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) admitted to suffering two separate data breaches. The first centred on the exposure of information on serving police officers and civilians in response to an FOI request from a member of the public relating to officer rank and staff grades. An error led to the sharing of a large Excel spreadsheet containing the surnames and initials of current employees alongside the location and department within which they work. The second involved the theft of documents including a spreadsheet containing the names of more than 200 serving police officers and staff from a "private vehicle" in the Newtownabbey area in Northern Ireland.

In the same month, the UK's Norfolk and Suffolk police constabularies disclosed the accidental exposure of personal data belonging to more than 1,000 individuals, including victims of crime. The agencies said they identified an issue relating to a very small percentage of responses to Freedom of Information (FOI) requests for crime statistics, issued between April 2021 and March 2022.

Compromised information could do incalculable damage

Any information compromised in the latest Metropolitan Police data breach could, in the wrong hands, do incalculable damage, Rick Prior, vice chair of the Metropolitan Police Federation, told the BBC. "Metropolitan Police officers are - as we speak - out on the streets of London undertaking some of the most difficult and dangerous roles imaginable to catch criminals and keep the public safe," he said.

To have their personal details potentially leaked out into the public domain in this manner, for all to possibly see, will cause colleagues incredible concern and anger, Prior added. "We will be working with the force to mitigate the dangers and risks that this disclosure could have on our colleagues, and [we] will be holding the Metropolitan Police to account for what has happened."

The breach could be more of a concern for ethnic minority officers, former MPS Chief Superintendent f Dal Babu, told BBC News. "If you're from a minority background and your name has been obtained by a criminal network, they're more likely to be able to find you because those names are unusual and it's easier to find on the internet where you are, what you're doing."
Google Cloud today previewed new AI-enhanced capabilities for its Chronicle and Mandiant offerings: Duet AI in Mandiant Threat Intelligence, Duet AI in Chronicle Security Operations, and Duet AI in Security Command Center. The preview was was part of a larger group of generative AI-related announcements made at the Google Cloud Next event.

Duet AI in Mandiant Threat Intelligence

Mandiant Threat Intelligence is built on one of the largest, if not the largest, knowledgebases of threat data including threat actor tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPs); indicators of compromise (IoC), incident forensics, and threat actor identification processes. The volume of data can make it difficult for security teams to properly leverage and apply to their circumstances.

By adding Duet AI to the mix, Google Cloud claims Mandiant Threat Intelligence can help security teams summarize information in the knowledgebase, identify the information most relevant to a given situation, and create reports that speak more directly to a target audience--for example, executive stakeholders or security operations personnel. "Security teams can now quickly understand what Google reports about the adversary, how the latest threats may be targeting their organization, and how they can make threat intelligence actionable across their organization," said Google Cloud Security VP/GM Sunil Potti in a blog post.

Duet AI in Chronicle Security Operations

Google Cloud first announced generative AI capabilities for Chronicle Security Operations at this year's RSA conference. Those capabilities were focused on improving threat detection, investigation, and response by simplifying data analysis.

Duet AI in Chronicle Security Operations offers similar capabilities. Specifically, Google Cloud claims it automatically generate summaries about ongoing incidents, providing context and recommendations for remediation. Duet also allows defenders to enter natural language queries into Chronicle. Duet automatically translates them into Chronicle's syntax, allowing lower-skilled personnel to be more effective.

Duet AI in Security Command Center

AI-enhanced attack path simulation capabilities for Security Command Center were also first introduced at RSA Conference 2023. Today's announcement builds on that by using Duet AI to provide "near instant" analyses of attacks and identify possible attack paths. "By reducing toil through summarizing threat criticality, implications, and recommended remediations, Duet AI in Security Command Center can help ensure they do not overlook critical findings," Potti said.
EV6 electric vehicles are assembled at Kia's AutoLand plant in Hwaseong in this photo provided by the company, May 18, 2022. Korea Times file



Kia Corp., South Korea's second-biggest carmaker by sales, said Tuesday one of its eight domestic plants will be suspended until early September due to a fire in its paint shop.



Eight industrial robots in the paint shop of Kia's No. 3 plant in Hwaseong, just south of Seoul, were affected by a fire Monday evening, a company spokesperson said.



The No. 3 Autoland Hwaseong plant will be suspended until Sept. 6, he said. The plant produces the K5 sedan, the K8 sedan and the all-electric EV6 SUV.



A spark in the robot cables appears to have caused the fire in the paint shop, and the company will make all possible measures to resume operations as quickly as possible, Kia said.



Kia has eight plants in South Korea  two in Gwangmyeong, three in Hwaseong and three in Gwangju  and six overseas  two in China and one each in the United States, Slovakia, Mexico and India. Their overall annual capacity is 3.84 million units. (Yonhap)


Numerous Organisations Are Banning ChatGPT

ChatGPT was introduced as a conversational model that can answer questions in a dialogue format. Following its surge in popularity following introduction in 2023, many other Artificial Intelligence (AI) and machine learning technologies have risen as well. Through its abilities, many have used this emerging technology to support their work as it can identify mistakes and improve the quality of writing and code.

Now, fears around the potential misuse of generative AI tools such as ChatGPT are spreading among IT decision-makers in the UK, with 66% of those who responded to a BlackBerry survey saying they either had banned or were considering banning the service.

A lot of organisations in general and companies in particular are being careful about it and sometimes going all the way to banning it, at least temporarily, until its being proven safe.

New research from BlackBerry reveals that 75% of organisations worldwide are currently considering or implementing bans on ChatGPT and other generative AI applications in the workplace. The data is based on a BlackBerry, survey of 2,000 IT decision-makers across the US, Canada, the UK, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Japan, and Australia conducted in June and July 2023 by OnePoll.

The majority of those deploying or considering bans (61%) say the measures are intended to be long-term or permanent.

ChatGPT - Security & Compliance

Companies banning ChatGPT indicate cybersecurity risks, employee ethical standards, and regulatory compliance challenges.

In general, UK respondents were most driven to enact bans due to the potential risk to data security and privacy posed by generative AI, and 55% due to the potential risk to their corporate reputation. Almost half (48%) said they had become concerned given their previous experience with a cyber incident or data breach, 47% said acting to align with others who had put bans in place was a motivator, and 39% cited a lack of government oversight or regulation.

ChatGPT's inability to alleviate these challenges while providing industry solutions attests to its limitations and needs to evolve further.

Meanwhile, companies are shifting to alternative chatbots or simply restricting employees from using ChatGPT to avoid the potential data breaches and unreliable security and regulatory protocols associated with the chatbot.

Blackberry: Computer Weekly: Science Alert: Make Use Of: Business Insider: Employment Law

Review: Medium Image: Allison Saeng

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Lawyer Admits To Using ChatGPT:

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White House chief of staff Mark Meadows speaks with reporters at the White House, Oct. 21, in Washington. AP-Yonhap



Trump White House chief of staff Mark Meadows took the witness stand at a hearing Monday to deny two of the allegations made against him in a Georgia indictment accusing him of participating in an illegal scheme to overturn the 2020 election.



Meadows, who was charged this month along with former President Donald Trump and 17 other people , is seeking to fight the charges in federal court rather than in state court. As part of that effort, he testified that he never asked White House personnel officer John McEntee to draft a memo to Vice President Mike Pence on how to delay certification of the election.



"When this came out in the indictment, it was the biggest surprise for me," Meadows said Monday. He later said, "Me asking Johnny McEntee for this kind of a memo just didn't happen."



He also said he did not text the Georgia secretary of state's office chief investigator, Frances Watson, as the indictment alleged. Rather, he said he believes that text was sent to Jordan Fuchs, the secretary of state's chief of staff.



Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis , who used Georgia's racketeering law to bring the case, alleges that Trump, Meadows and the others participated in a wide-ranging conspiracy to try to keep the Republican president in power illegally even after his election loss to Democrat Joe Biden. Willis argues that Meadows' actions were political in nature and not performed as part of his official duties.



U.S. District Judge Steve Jones ended Monday's hearing without making an immediate ruling on Meadows' request to move the trial.



The extraordinary testimony from Trump's former chief of staff came as two of the former president's attorneys listened attentively in the courtroom. Monday's hearing in Georgia involved just one of four criminal cases that Trump is currently facing. In Washington, a judge overseeing a federal case over charges that Trump sought to illegally subvert the results of the 2020 election set a trial date for March 4, 2024, right in the heart of the presidential primary calendar.



Lawyers for Meadows argue that his actions that gave rise to the charges in the indictment "all occurred during his tenure and as part of his service as Chief of Staff." They argue that he did nothing criminal and that the charges against him should be dismissed, and they want Jones to move the case to federal court to halt any proceedings against him at the state level.



During Monday's hearing, Meadows attorney George J. Terwilliger III quickly called his client to the stand and asked him about his duties as Trump's chief of staff. The lawyer then walked him through the acts alleged in the indictment to ask if he had done those as part of his job. For most of the acts listed, Meadows said he had performed them as part of his official duty.



In the cross-examination, prosecutor Anna Cross ticked through the same acts to ask Meadows what federal policy was being advanced in each of them. He frequently answered that the federal interest was in ensuring accurate and fair elections, but she accused him several times of not answering her question.



Willis' team argues that the actions in question were meant solely to keep Trump in office. These actions were explicitly political in nature and are illegal under the Hatch Act , which restricts partisan political activity by federal employees, they wrote in a response to Meadows' notice of removal to federal court. They believe the case should remain in Fulton County Superior Court.



The allegations against Meadows include participating in meetings or communications with state lawmakers along with Trump and others that were meant to advance the alleged illegal scheme to keep Trump in power; traveling to Atlanta's suburbs where a ballot envelope signature audit was happening; arranging a phone call between Trump and a Georgia secretary of state investigator ; and participating in a January 2021 phone call between Trump and Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger during which Trump suggested Raffensperger could help "find 11,780 votes" needed for him to win Georgia.





White House Chief of Staff Mark Meadows meets with Georgia Deputy Secretary of State Jordan Fuchs, Dec. 22, 2020, at the Cobb County Civic Center, where investigators were conducting an audit of voter signatures on absentee ballot envelopes. AP-Yonhap
XAU/USD, XAG/USD PRICE FORECAST:

MOST READ: Japan Maintain Economic Outlook, USD/JPY Catches its Breath at Weekly High

Gold and Silver have enjoyed decent rallies at the back end of last week with Gold in particular continuing to rally yesterday. An improvement in sentiment weighed on the US Dollar helping Gold run toward a key resistance area between the $1926-$1929 area as markets await a batch of key data from the US in particular.

Recommended by Zain Vawda How to Trade Gold Get My Guide

CHINA STIMULUS AND US DATA AHEAD

As Gold looks to continue its recent run China did provide some form of stimulus yesterday as they asked some funds to evade net equity sales to boost the market. This was followed up this morning with news and rumors that China is weighing up a further cut to deposit rates in a further bid to boost growth and alleviate pressure.

Market participants seem to be appeased for now at least as we have seen more positive sentiment this week which has weighed on the US Dollar. This in return has allowed Gold to maintain momentum while allowing Silver to hold the high ground.

The US is back with a host of data releases which could have a significant impact on commodities. The Fed are still sticking to data dependent rhetoric and this weeks key releases could give us a clearer sign of what to expect from the Federal Reserves September meeting.

Later today we will get CB Consumer Confidence numbers before markets focus on the 2nd estimate of GDP growth. The week will come to a close with two big events for the US economy with the Core PCE data and NFP report coming out on Friday. These two data releases could hold a lot of sway on the Feds decision at the September meeting.

For all market-moving economic releases and events, see the DailyFX Calendar

Key News and Data Releases this Week, Download Your Free Guide for Tips on News Trading.

Recommended by Zain Vawda Trading Forex News: The Strategy Get My Guide

TECHNICAL OUTLOOK AND FINAL THOUGHTS

Form a technical perspective, Gold prices have made an impressive run toward the 50-day MA which rests just above a key resistance area between 1926-1929. Having rallied from the weekly low around the $1884 mark to around $1926 before a slight pullback yesterday. This is a delicate position for Gold at present with a break needed above the $1926-$1929 handle for me to be convinced that Gold bulls are back in control.

Alternatively, a move lower from here will bring the 200-day MA back into focus around the $1911 handle. I was surprised by the speed at which Gold broke back above the 200-day MA, given the fact that we had traded above it since December 2022.

Markets do appear to be largely driven by the fundamental and macro pictures at the moment and thus my initial thoughts are that any move will likely be dependent on the continuation of the risk-on sentiment we are seeing at the start of the week. The market reaction of late to data releases and policymaker comments have been mixed and sometimes downright confusing. A shift in sentiment could re-invigorate US Dollar bulls and push Gold toward fresh lows.

Gold (XAU/USD) Daily Chart  August 25, 2023

Source: TradingView, Chart Prepared by Zain Vawda

Silver has been interesting of late as it continues to hold the high ground around the 24.30 resistance area. This will be the fourth successive day that the price remains compressed between the resistance level and the 100-day MA around 23.94.

A failure to break above resistance could leave Silver vulnerable to further downside. A lot of support to the downside however could mean any such move may be short lived with the 20, 50 and 200-day MAs all resting between 23.20 and the 23.50 area. Interesting time ahead for Silver as it appears a catalyst may be needed if we are to see a convincing breakout from here. Will US data facilitate the move?

Silver (XAG/USD) Daily Chart  August 29, 2023

Source: TradingView, Chart Prepared by Zain Vawda

Taking a quick look at the IG Client Sentiment, retail trader data shows 82% of traders are net-long on Silver.

For a more in-depth look at IG client sentiment and changes in long and short positioning download the free guide below.

Silver Bearish Data provided by of clients are net long. of clients are net short.

Change in Longs Shorts OI Daily 2% 1% 2% Weekly 4% -7% 3%

Written by: Zain Vawda, Markets Writer for DailyFX.com

Contact and follow Zain on Twitter: @zvawda
United States President Joe Biden participates in a reception to commemorate the 60th Anniversary of the founding of the Lawyers' Committee for Civil Rights Under Law, in the East Room of the White House in Washington, DC, Aug. 28. UPI-Yonhap



President Joe Biden is heading to Vietnam next month to meet with General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong and other Vietnamese leaders, the White House announced on Monday.



The president will travel to Hanoi on Sept. 10, tacking on the one-day visit to the Vietnamese capital after attending the annual Group of 20 leaders' summit in India.



"The leaders will explore opportunities to promote the growth of a technology-focused and innovation-driven Vietnamese economy, expand our people-to-people ties through education exchanges and workforce development programs, combat climate change, and increase peace, prosperity, and stability in the region," White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said in a statement.



The White House also announced on Monday that Biden will stop in Alaska on his way home from Vietnam to mark the the 22nd anniversary of the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks on the United States. He will take part in a memorial ceremony at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson in Anchorage with members of the military, first responders and their families, Jean-Pierre said.



The announcement about Vietnam comes after weeks of Biden hinting at a possible visit. He said at a July 29 campaign reception in Freeport, Maine, that Vietnam's leader wanted to meet him. He then told donors at a New Mexico reception earlier this month that he would "be going to Vietnam shortly because Vietnam wants to change our relationship and become a partner."



"I've gotten a call from the head of Vietnam, desperately wants to meet me when I go to the G20," Biden said at the Freeport reception. "He wants to elevate us to a major partner, along with Russia and China. What do you think that's about? No, I'm not joking."



Vietnam is an authoritarian state ruled by a single party, the Communist Party of Vietnam. Human rights groups have raised concerns in the past about the Vietnamese curtailing freedom of expression, association, and peaceful assembly, and the arrests of dozens of critics of the government.



Asked about Vietnam's rights record, Jean-Pierre told reporters that Biden "never shies away" from bringing up human rights with any leader.



Biden has put a premium on improving and expanding relationships in southeast Asia throughout his time in office amid growing U.S. concern about China's growing military and economic influence in the region.



At the same time, Biden and his aides have repeatedly said they seek to improve communication between the two governments to work on issues on which the Democratic administration says they have common interest  such as global efforts to combat climate change  and avoid unnecessary conflict and misunderstanding.



The United States for years has sought to strengthen relations with Vietnam, which has cautiously approached entreaties by Washington. Both China and Russia have long served as key trading partners for Vietnam.



China's border is less than 60 miles (96 kilometers) from Hanoi and Vietnam, like many of China's neighbors, has had maritime and territorial disputes with Beijing in the South China Sea. The two sides fought a brief war in 1979. But China is Vietnam's biggest trading partner.



Earlier this year, Secretary of State Antony Blinken visited Vietnam weeks after the 50th anniversary of the U.S. troop withdrawal that marked the end of America's direct military involvement in Vietnam. He pledged to boost relations to new levels. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen in July also travelled to Hanoi.



Diplomatic relations between the U.S. and Vietnam were only restored in 1995. Since then, bilateral trade has grown, reaching a high of $138 billion in goods trade last year.



Vietnam has become a major export production hub for global manufacturers like South Korea's LG and Samsung Electronics, suppliers to Apple, Inc. and auto makers like Honda and Toyota. Vietnam's star has risen as manufacturers look to shift production from China, because of geopolitical tensions and a push in many industries to diversify supply chains that were strained by the coronavirus pandemic.



The Vietnam visit was announced after Biden earlier this month hosted the leaders of Japan and South Korea for a historic summit at the U.S. presidential retreat of Camp David to cement a new economic and security agreement.



Biden has worked to bring South Korea and Japan  historic rivals  closer together amid their shared concerns about Chinese assertiveness in the Pacific and North Korea's nuclear program. (AP)


The Italians have a wonderful word, menefreghismo. Loosely translated, it means 'don't-give-a-fig-ery', a general it's-not-my- problem, you're-on-your-own-mate approach to life.

It conveys a general sense of shoulder-shrugging, the kind of attitude you encounter when dealing with a petty official, a traffic warden or just your general jobsworth.

Of course, they could help, if they wanted to. They could cut you some slack, make your life that little bit easier. But they sure as hell won't because, quite honestly, they don't care.

Menefreghismo is what I encountered the other week, when my British Airways flight back from Marseilles was unexpectedly cancelled. Indifference mixed with incompetence, a truly frustrating combination.

After I wrote about my experience, many of you got in touch to recount similar  and, in some cases, much worse  treatment at the hands of BA.

SARAH VINE: For a good many, this latest fiasco will have been the last straw in a summer characterised by delays, cancellations and travel chaos

I imagine that after this week's air traffic control meltdown, there will be considerably more tales of woe courtesy of Britain's so-called flagship airline. You have my deepest sympathies.

For a good many, this latest fiasco will have been the last straw in a summer characterised by delays, cancellations and travel chaos. I don't know anyone who hasn't been affected, one way or another.

For example, my daughter, who has been saving up for months to take her boyfriend to Rome for his 21st birthday, spent yesterday on tenterhooks, waiting to know if the trip she'd been planning since April was going to go ahead, wondering whether to cancel her Airbnb in the hope of at least recouping some of the money.

As I write, she's on her way to the airport, having been assured by easyJet that her flight is on time. We shall see.

Meanwhile, my mother, who had planned to travel to the UK from Italy this week for my uncle's funeral in Cornwall, will now be unable to say her last goodbyes.

Even if she could get here, it wouldn't be much use, since rail strikes this weekend mean there are no trains to Cornwall.

In any case, the last time she and my father tried to catch a train in this country, they ended up stranded at Newport for five hours, arriving at their destination late at night and so exhausted that my dad, who had recently suffered a serious stroke, slipped and fell.

The truth is that, while the past couple of days have been defined by incompetence in our skies, things aren't much better on the ground. Britain feels like an absolute shambles, a basket case. Almost nothing works any more, and it hasn't done so for a while now.

All around us, the social and physical infrastructure that once held this country together is crumbling. You name it: our roads are rubbish, our rivers are polluted, our streets are overrun by lunatics wielding machetes  it's impossible to get anywhere or do anything without it turning into a three-act drama.

SARAH VINE: Menefreghismo is what I encountered the other week, when my British Airways flight back from Marseilles was unexpectedly cancelled

Once an example of can-do competence, community spirit and common sense, we seem to have turned into a nation where no one cares, no one can be bothered and everyone always has a excuse for why none of it's their responsibility.

A place where the ordinary law-abiding, taxpaying citizen or loyal, fee-paying customer is increasingly powerless in the face of other people's selfishness, incompetence or, in many cases, plain greed. It's all me, me, me and sod the rest of you.

READ MORE: Beds are laid out for passengers stranded in Europe for a second night as air traffic control misery continues Stranded passengers have been left to sleep on beds laid out on the floor at Schiphol Airport in Amsterdam, Netherlands Advertisement

The examples are endless. Take Sadiq Khan, with his bitterly contested Ulez expansion, dressed up as an environmental measure but, in reality, just another stealth tax designed to enrich his office. It's guaranteed to cause endless misery for small businesses and individuals.

No amount of pleading or petitioning on the part of the public has managed to make him reconsider  just as no amount of reasonable opposition to his plans to criss-cross London with hard cycle lanes managed to stop him turning parts of the capital into a car park. He just shrugs his shoulders and repeats the same old script.

Take the rail unions, determined to make families' lives a misery by going on strike in the run-up to the start of the new term  despite drivers being offered salaries of up to 65,000 a year, way more than the average worker.

Again, no amount of inconvenience or suffering on the part of passengers can derail them from their mission, which is to use their leverage as providers of a vital public service to hold the Government  and taxpayer  to ransom.

Forget notions of public service or anything absurd like that.

Meanwhile, British Airways, once the pride of the skies and 'the world's favourite airline', is now so lackadaisical in its attitude towards paying passengers that it can't even provide the most basic level of customer service, or have the decency to properly compensate people for its own failures.

Look at universities, where some graduates still haven't even been given their degrees this year because teaching staff were so busy being on strike.

Others have just announced they are planning to switch to a three-day week to allow undergraduates to take on part-time jobs to help fund the crippling charges they face (for not being taught). No mention, naturally, of courses costing less for fewer days' learning  God forbid.

Meanwhile, student accommodation in places such as Manchester doesn't even reach basic standards. Some of it is so grim, it makes the Bibby Stockholm barge look like Claridge's. Except that at least if you're a migrant you get housed free, instead of paying through the nose to share your student room with mould and assorted vermin.

SARAH VINE: British Airways, once the pride of the skies and 'the world's favourite airline', is now so lackadaisical in its attitude towards paying passengers that it can't even provide the most basic level of customer service

Don't like it? Fine. Like we care. We'll just sell your place to a foreign student for twice the money.

As for teachers, doctors and civil servants, forget a sense of duty or vocational calling. Of course, many are beyond reproach but vast numbers  highly paid hospital consultants on strike, for instance  seem interested only in what they can squeeze out of the system.

Increasingly they are indifferent to the needs of the people they are letting down, and constantly come up with excuses as to why their welfare matters so much more than everyone else's.

It's not just that nothing works properly or does what it's supposed to do. It's also that the very fabric of what makes a happy, healthy society seems to have been ripped apart by opportunism and self-interest at almost every turn.

The reason why Britain feels like a Third World country falling apart at the seams is that so few seem to want to put in the effort any more. Doing things right requires time and application. But people just want something for nothing, and their sense of entitlement seems to far outweigh any obligation, certainly as far as the important stuff is concerned.

When it comes to the superficial, that's a different matter. Everyone is deadly serious in their dedication to the trivial.

Mis-gender someone and all hell breaks loose. Forget to obtain signed consent in triplicate before paying someone a compliment, and that's you cancelled. Dare to suggest that a woman is an adult biological female and see how quickly the room clears.

Meanwhile, the things that really matter continue to deteriorate. We tinker around the edges, wasting time on platitudes and political correctness while our heath service crumbles, our transport system falters, our school standards fall, our universities fail to deliver, and all the things Britain was once admired for fade away.

Maybe I'm wrong. Maybe it's just the way the world is these days. Maybe we have to accept that incompetence has become the norm, and that excellence and high standards are things of the past.

But I, for one, can't see why. Like many others, I do still care. Things need to change, and fast. Before we reach the point of no return and Britain becomes like everywhere else, a land of menefreghismo.
Do you scoop or bob? Or must it be conducted with deepest humility and drama?

The royal curtsy is a bit of a minefield, particularly for newcomers.

And over the years there have been some memorable attempts at this traditional acknowledgement - effective at times, ridiculous at others - as these pictures show...

Duchess of Sussex - a tricky start (but learnt fast)

When Meghan went to meet the Queen for the first time at The Royal Lodge in Windsor, she admitted that she 'didn't even know how to curtsy'

Recounting the 'intense' moment during her Netflix docuseries, she performed a deeply exaggerated curtsy as her husband Harry watched on

Back in 2021, Meghan used her two-hour bombshell Oprah Winfrey tell-all to reveal she 'never looked up her husband online' when they first started dating.

She admitted she 'didn't do any research' into the royal family before she married into it and said she 'didn't fully understand what the job was'.

The Duchess of Sussex said: 'I went into it naively because I didn't grow up knowing much about the royal family. I didn't fully understand what the job was.'

Such was her naivety, that when Meghan went to meet the Queen for the first time at The Royal Lodge in Windsor, she 'didn't even know how to curtsy' and was shocked when Harry explained it was expected of her.

The mother-of-two said that was the moment 'the penny dropped' that her perception of the Firm was 'very different' to the reality, and she had to learn how to perform the royal custom 'very quickly'.

Meghan soon mastered the art of curtsying after becoming a member of the royal family

'Right in front of the house we practised and ran in. Fergie ran out and said, 'Do you know how to curtsy?',' she recalled.

'Apparently I did a very deep curtsy, I don't remember it, and then we sat there and we chatted.'

And a giggling Meghan appeared to mock her own efforts at following royal protocol as she recounted the 'surreal' moment she first met the Queen during the opening salvo of her and Harry's incendiary Netflix documentary in December 2022.

Recounting the 'intense' moment, she performed a deeply exaggerated curtsy as husband Harry watched on before the pair then chuckled afterwards.

Meghan met the Queen for the first time during a lunch at the Royal Lodge in Windsor, shortly after she and the Duke revealed they were dating, in 2016.

But she said the whole occasion felt like an antiquated banquet at Medieval Times, a family dinner theatre in the US featuring staged medieval-style games, sword-fighting, and jousting.

Princess Charlotte - the moment she forgot!

The Princess of Wales and her daughter Princess Charlotte pictured curtsying to King Charles as he walked past them in the royal box

Having spotted Charlotte's stumble afterwards, Queen Camilla have her step-granddaughter a reassuring tap on the shoulder as she walked past

Back in May, royal fans watched the adorable moment Princess Charlotte forgot to curtsy to her step-grandmother Queen Camilla at the Coronation concert outside Windsor Castle.

The couple were seated in the middle of the front row of the box - meaning they had to walk past the Prince and Princess of Wales and their two eldest children Prince George, nine, and Princess Charlotte, eight.

As her grandfather passed her, Princess Charlotte did her best curtsy as a mark of respect for the new King.

But as she went to stand up again, Prince William and Kate Middleton's second child lost her footing for a split second.

After recovering herself, Charlotte looked over to her big brother and father to see if they'd seen her small stumble.

In doing so, Charlotte was accidentally turned away from Camilla as she passed - meaning she was too late to curtsy for the Queen.

Having witnessed Charlotte's toppled curtsy, Queen Camilla tried to reassure her step-granddaughter.

As she walked past, Camilla gave the young royal a gentle pat on the shoulder - prompting Charlotte to smile back at her.

Charlotte's curtsy in May reminded watchers of the time she curtsied to the late Queen during the Sandringham Christmas Day Service in 2019

The moment was reminiscent of the heartfelt moment Charlotte curtsied to the late Queen during the Sandringham Christmas Day Service in 2019.

The young princess was holding hands with her mother as the family left the church. And Kate, seeing the Queen, gave a dutiful curtsy.

Soon after, Charlotte copied her mother's gesture, impressing onlookers with her royal etiquette.

Since, Charlotte has offered several royal curtsies during the past year, with the little princess' gesture to her great-grandmother's coffin at Westminster Abbey, London, in September 2022 being widely shared.

Princess Catherine - Queen of the subtle bob

Catherine curtsies as she and her husband Prince William bid farewell to Queen Elizabeth during a visit to Vernon Park in Nottingham in June 2012

Kate showed her respect for the late Queen as she subtly bobbed down into a low curtsy as the late Queen's coffin arrived at the Palace of Westminster, following a procession from Buckingham Palace in September 2022

Over the years, Kate has become quite the master of curtsies.

The royal mother-of-three has proved to be an expert in the formal greeting as she continuously bowed to the late Queen Elizabeth with poise and composure.

In September of last year, the Princess of Wales was among the royal women who were seen curtsying towards the Queen during her final journey ahead of her funeral.

Kate showed her respect for the late Queen as she subtly bobbed down into a low curtsy.

Back in December, Kate made her first ever public curtsy for King Charles as she hosted her second Together At Christmas concert.

When the King arrived at Westminster Abbey, the mother-of-three offered him a kiss on either cheek before dipping into a low curtsy.

Kate Middleton's first ever public curtsy for King Charles sent royal fans wild in December 2022 as she swept into a low dip while greeting him at her Christmas concert

Many of those watching were thrilled by the moment, with one writing: 'Lovely to see this event and due respect so easily paid to the King and Queen. I'm pleased they were there to support our Princess of Wales.'

Meanwhile, another added: 'She curtsies to them with elegance and confidence but no fuss as always. An example to everyone.'

Most recently, Kate delighted royal watchers as she performed the perfect curtsy for her father-in-law King Charles and Queen Camilla during the Order of the Garter service in Windsor in June.

Kate expertly kept her balance as she placed one foot behind the other and knelt down for the Sovereign and his wife.

Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh - how to nail a curtsy

Sophie was all smiles as she formally greeted her mother-in-law the Queen at the 2015 Royal Windsor Horse Show

The utterly elegant Duchess of Edinburgh perfecting her royal curtsy at the Royal Academy of Arts in May 2012

Another member of the Royal Family who has nailed down the perfect curtsy is Sophie, the Duchess of Edinburgh.

In 2015, Sophie was all smiles as she formally greeted her mother-in-law the Queen at the Royal Windsor Horse Show.

Following royal protocol, the wife of Prince Edward dropped to one knee and curtsied as she was received by Her Majesty, who appeared to be distracted by something to her left.

Sophie then warmly kissed the Queen on both cheeks before they settled down to watch an afternoon's racing.

On another occasion, the Queen appeared delighted to be greeted by the Duchess during a celebration at the Royal Academy of Arts in May 2012.

Sarah Ferguson, Duchess of York - her own approach

Sarah Ferguson, the Duchess of York, has made quite the name for herself with her deep curtsies. Pictured: With her daughter, Princess Beatrice, at Royal Ascot in 2018

Sarah Ferguson - often referred to as Fergie - is renowned for her trademark deep curtsies to Her Majesty.

Despite not being an official member of The Fold for more than two decades, Fergie always enthusiastically greeted her former mother-in-law with an elaborate knee bend.

Back in 2018, the Duchess of York made headlines for performing an incredibly low dip as the Queen arrived at the Parade Ring at Royal Ascot.

And just a year later, she turned heads yet again in a bright yellow dress paired with purple shoes as she showed off her deep curtsy when the 93-year-old Queen Elizabeth arrived.

Princess Beatrice and Eugenie - with deepest respects

Princess Eugenie and her husband Jack Brooksbank greeting the late Queen with a curtsy as she passes in her carriage Royal Ascot in 2017

Princess Beatrice also practised a deep curtsy when greeting the Queen. Pictured: At Royal Ascot in Berkshire in 2012

Just like her mother, it appears as though Princesses Beatrice and Eugenie are also fans of the deep curtsy.

Both sisters have often been pictured curtsying to the Queen during formal occasions, including Royal Ascot.

Princess Anne - an elaborate curtsy for Spanish royals

Princess Anne performed an elaborate curtsy as she welcomed Queen Letizia and King Felipe to a lavish dinner at the Guildhall in London in July 2017

For their first-ever state visit to the UK, Princess Anne ensured she gave the King and Queen of Spain a royal welcome as she hosted them at a banquet in London.

The Princess Royal performed an elaborate curtsy as she welcomed Queen Letizia and King Felipe to a lavish dinner at the Guildhall in London in July 2017.

While it may have appeared unusual to see Princess Anne curtsying to anyone as the Queens daughter, because the King and Queen of Spain hold a higher royal ranking than her, royal protocol states she must bow in their presence.
Some fans of the influencer speculated she 'grew' into her nose over puberty

She contrasted her appearance now to a photo of her from her teens

The bombshell, 22, quipped: 'I genuinely think I got a nose job in my sleep'

Social media phenom Alix Earle has shut down rumors that she's had a nose job.

The 22-year-old reigning queen of TikTok has been plagued by social media users speculating about whether or not she's had the cosmetic procedure, and in a new video she's addressed the allegations.

'I genuinely think I got a nose job in my sleep,' the blonde bombshell, from New Jersey, began by quipping in the 16-second clip.

She then pulled up a photo of her that looked to be from her middle-school days - with the bridge of her nose appearing decidedly wider - before she exclaimed: 'Look at my nose.'

Influencer Alix Earle, 22, took to TikTok to dispel rumors she's had a nose job

Alix contrasted her current appearance with a photo of herself in which she looked to be around middle-school aged

'Like, granted, I didn't know how to use nose contour at the time,' she continued, referring to the makeup application approach that uses concealer to enhance facial features through highlighting and shadowing.

'But it's crazy how much your nose grows into your face,' she added.

'I've literally had boyfriends before and I've shown them young photos of me going through puberty.'

'And they're like, "I literally don't believe you." They ask my parents like, "Did she have a nose job?"' the influencer concluded with a chuckle.

Alix has spoken openly about plastic surgery procedures she's had in the past - including her boob job and lip fillers - as well as having been on Accutane three times to clear her skin.

Fans of the TikTok influencer flocked to the comments to share similar experiences and speculate on the apparent transformation of Alix's nose.

'I grew into my nose too it's crazy the difference,' one wrote, while another echoed: 'This literally happened to me too. I feel like I grew into my face or nose ahahah.'

'No bc (because) I grew into my ears. They still get satellite radio but I used to look like an elephant,' a third added.

The influencer has racked up nearly 6 million followers on TikTok over the past year, with her popularity finding a foothold through the platform's viral #GetReadyWithMe trend

@alixearle Theres more photos i have to dig up for u guys  original sound - alix earle

'Same thing happened to me. People will look at my grade 9 picture and think I had a nose job. Nope. Just grew into my face haha,' a fourth chimed in.

'Ppl don't believe me when I say my nose used to photograph huge. Until I show them pics and they're like oh,' a fifth shared.

'If you get lip filler or any form of filler to your face it can harmonize your features better,' someone else offered up.

Still many other commenters speculated that Alix's nose became smaller thanks to what many have dubbed 'Accutane nose' - referring to the medication's seeming ability to shrink the facial feature of those who go on it.

'It's the Accutane nose same thing happened to me,' someone hypothesized.

Many of Alix's fans suggested that she 'grew' into her nose

Others speculated her apparently smaller nose was thanks to her having been on Accutane

DailyMail.com has previously looked into the rumored Accutane side effect, popularized by many influencers in reporting on their experience with the drug.

'Accutane may make the nose look less bulbous because of its effect on the oil glands in that area,' Dr. Joshua Zeichner, the director of cosmetic and clinical research in dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital, told Health.

He elaborated that, because, 'the nose has among the highest concentration and most active oil glands on the body,' it's possible that Accutane could indeed create the appearance of a smaller nose.

Alix has rocketed to social-media stardom primarily through the #GRWM, or #GetReadyWithMe, trend on TikTok, having amassed nearly 6 million followers on the platform in a little under a year.
Ex-members have spoken out about the abuse they suffered while in the group

It doesn't have an official name or website, but is referred to as Two By Twos

Ex-members of an underground Christian 'cult' have laid bare the harrowing abuse that they suffered at the hands of its leaders - and accused the organization of harboring a slew of sexual predators and failing to report them to the police.

The bizarre religious movement - which has no official name but is referred to as 'Two By Twos' by outsiders and ex-members - was started by a man named William Irvine in Ireland in the late 1800s.

William claimed that he was chosen by God to deliver a special revelation that he referred to as the 'Alpha message,' and he soon started preaching a slew of outrageous beliefs to a growing number of individuals.

He began to implement a series of very-strict rules for his followers, which he said were told to him by God, and he used the regulations to control almost every aspect of members' lives - including what they wore, how they acted, and what music they listened to.

Ex-members of an underground Christian 'cult' have laid bare the harrowing abuse that they suffered at the hands of its leaders. Known as 'Two by Twos', the movement was started by a man named William Irvine in Ireland in the late 1800s

When Christian officials heard about what he was up to, they announced that they wanted nothing to do with his ridiculous teachings and kicked him out of the church - but that didn't stop William.

The group continued to hold meetings - but moved underground - and instead of doing so publicly or in a real church setting, they had their events at members' homes.

For over 100 years, the religious sect has continued to grow in secrecy - even after William died in 1947 - but now, a series of ex-members have come forward and lifted a lid on what really goes on in the controversial organization.

They claimed that many of the preachers in the group sexually assaulted its members - and that top officials have done nothing to stop the abuse.

A letter from one of the leaders that leaked in March said that he found out one of the higher-ups, named Dean Bruer (seen), who passed away in June 2022, had been a 'sexual predator'

Tava Zahorka Nicholson, from Colorado, who grew up with parents who were part of the 'cult,' told Daily Dot recently that she was molested by four different male members as a child - one of whom touched her inappropriately 'over 100 times.'

She claimed that her childhood was so traumatic she blocked most of it out, and it wasn't until she spoke to a therapist years later as an adult that she remembered what had happened to her.

'I did not and still do not remember my childhood to this day, I remember bits and pieces,' she said.

She also alleged that none of the men who touched her inappropriately were being investigated by the police or the group's leaders - despite 'multiple people' speaking out against them.

According to the outlet, it's believed that there are currently around 75,000 members of the group, but there's no way to really know the exact number since it's shrouded in so much secrecy.

There's no official website or formal name for it, and it's unclear who is currently leading it.

One former member, named Heather, who asked to keep her last name hidden for privacy reasons, explained that every state has something known as an 'overseer' - who assigns a pair of preachers, known as 'workers,' to each area of that state.

Workers are expected to 'divest all their worldly possessions, not to own cars or homes, and remain celibate,' Daily Dot added.

Since they aren't allowed to own their own house, the workers usually stay in members' abodes. And because two of them always travel together, the organization is often referred to as Two by Twos.

'Conventions' are held once a year, and involve thousands of members meeting up to 'worship together' across multiple days.

Back in 2013, an overseer named Jerome Frandle pleaded no contest to 'knowingly failing to report suspected child abuse or neglect.' He was sentenced to four days in jail and 100 hours of community service.

One man, named Jason Lennox, who was an active member of the organization from 2012 to 2015, was convicted of second-degree sexual conduct with a minor and sexual abuse of a child in 2018.

Back in 2013, another one of its leaders, named Jerome Frandle pleaded no contest to 'knowingly failing to report suspected child abuse or neglect'

One man, named Jason Lennox (seen), who was an active member of the organization from 2012 to 2015, was convicted of sexual abuse of a child in 2018

He admitted to raping a 'very young child at least three times from 2007 to 2011,' a local Arizona news outlet reported at the time.

Another former overseer, named Richard Schober, told Daily Dot that he voluntarily cut ties with the group in the '60s because he 'knew he had a problem.'

'I knew I had a problem and I stepped out because it was not the place for me to be in the homes of children,' he said.

He was later convicted of indecent liberties and admitted to molesting his daughter.

Earlier this year, a letter that was written by an overseer named Doyle Smith leaked, in which he confirmed that he had discovered that another overseer, named Dean Bruer, who passed away in June 2022, had been a 'sexual predator.'

The letter was reportedly meant for other higher ups in the organization.

'It has come to the surface in recent months, and more so in recent weeks, that Dean was a sexual predator,' he wrote.

'He had another side to his life that none of us, except victims, ever witnessed or suspected.

'Victims have come forward, and there was very confirming and incriminating evidence found on his computer and phone.

'His actions include rape and abuse of underage victims. He totally abused his authority as an overseer in order to control, manipulate and threaten his victims.'

He insisted that 'none of them' had 'any idea' that 'such terrible things were happening until several weeks after Dean's death' and that they felt 'betrayed' by his actions. Dean worked as a minister for over 40 years.

Daily Dot reported that there's no record of criminal charges brought against Dean, but said that police confirmed there was a case file for him. They didn't divulge any other information.

According to the outlet, the letter was made public after an anonymous person sent a photo of it to Kari Hanks, an ex member who runs a Facebook support group for others who have parted ways with the group.

Kari shared the image to the group in March, and she told the publication that it inspired tons more to come forward and speak out about the sexual assault that they endured as part of the group.

She said that she now receives around 12-15 messages from people who claim to have been abused in Two by Twos 'every day.'

A private investigator, named Cynthia Liles, is now looking into the group, and she told the publication that over 1,000 members of the group have come forward in total, and accused 550 different men of sexual assault.

Cynthia said most of the victims claimed the abuse happened in their own homes while the workers were staying with them, many of whom were minors at the time, while others - around 20 per cent - said it happened during the conventions.

The investigator - who said she's currently working 'with a number of law enforcement agencies' - concluded: 'I think its beyond our imagination. Were at the tip of the iceberg right now. Its just thick with abuse.

'My big question is: How can there be this many pedophiles in a relatively small church?'
Aldi Australia has addressed rumours the store will be launching online shopping in coming months.

On Tuesday it was reported that the store had big plans to further the development of its website to compete with Woolworths and Coles; a rumour that has been shut down by the company.

Adrian Christie, Attributable to ALDI's Director of Customer Interactions, told FEMAIL the business is 'keeping a close eye on the eCommerce opportunity as we look to maximise customer convenience' but confirmed there are no imminent plans.

'We believe our fundamental responsibility, particularly now, is keeping the price of customers' weekly shop as low as possible.'

'One of the major ways we are able to offer the highest quality groceries at the lowest prices is our streamlined business model that is focused on simplicity.

Aldi Australia has broken its silence over rumours it will launch an online shopping service. The speculation was quickly squished and an online launch isn't the current priority for the business (stock image)

'While we are always looking at the environment and considering an online experience, we won't bring this forward until we have a model where associated overheads of eCommerce in no way compromises our ability to deliver low priced groceries to Australians.'

For now, customers can still keep up to date with Aldi's 'Special Buys' and deals on the website - but an online delivery service remains unavailable.

It comes after a shopper was left in hysterics last week when she spotted a bizarre Special Buys advertisement for a new foldable exercise bike at the store.

Read more: Aussie woman left furious over eyewatering cost of her Coles shop - and reveals the one place people can still get value for money Elly was furious over this $45 visit to the supermarket Advertisement

Bec Brewin, from Melbourne, was eager to purchase the $169 'Special Buy' and searched the Aldi Australia website for details.

However, she wasn't expecting to come across a video promoting the bike which shows it casually orbiting among the planets and stars with commentary played over the top.

'Has anyone actually been on the Aldi website? The reason I ask is because I was just looking up this bike,' Bec said in a TikTok video.

'I'm interested but need to know the dimensions... and this is what I found.'

She then proceeded to show the ad - sending it viral almost immediately.

The humorous video was described by other customers as 'genius' and a clever advertisement likely created by someone 'from Gen Z'.

It began with a shot of what appears to be the milky way galaxy before the narrator says: 'Outer space. A special place where the vacuum renders everything silent, leading us to ask: 'Does the sun roar as it burns? Do the planets sing as they spin?''

'And do they sing about.. the foldable exercise bike from Aldi for only $169?' the voice continues then the product appears on screen.

READ MORE: Shoppers in hysterics over 'bizarre' and 'trippy' ad for Aldi exercise bike - but admit they can't stop watching: 'Nothing about this makes sense'

Aldi fan favourite Di San returns to shelves after fears it was 'discontinued forever' - sparking shopping frenzy
A beautician has criticised Ryanair after enduring a 'too short' seatbelt on a recent flight, saying their standard-size belts could be viewed as 'fatphobic'.

Air passenger Katie Higgins, 33, from Ayr, says her experiences earlier this month while flying from Glasgow to visit family in Cork left her feeling 'lassoed' to her seat because the safety belt at its maximum length was too tight.

Katie says she's a size 16 - the average dress size in the UK - but says there was barely an inch of room left after connecting the metal fasteners.

She claims that she would have had to ask for an extender belt if the material was any tighter - despite the fact that she matches the size profile of the average UK woman.

Katie Higgins, 33, from Ayr, posted on Facebook about her experiences on a recent Ryanair flight, saying the standard seat belt was so tight she almost had to request an extender - despite her being a size 16, the UK's national average dress size for women

After she posted about her experience on social media, she says lots of people have admitted to purchasing their own extenders to take on board flights - because they want to avoid the embarrassment of asking for one.

One person responded: 'I'm so glad you posted this. I thought it was just me. I can't even breathe when I'm on a Ryanair flight and it's much too embarrassing to ask for the extender. I know I shouldn't be, because as you said, we all come in different shapes and sizes.'

Katie says that she isn't 'delusional' about her size but was baffled when the belt didn't fit as she has recently lost two stone in weight - and says plus-size passengers might face being judged if they have to ask cabin crew for belt extenders.

The part-time blogger shared how she felt on Facebook, where she claimed that the budget airline's tight seat belts could harm 'the self-esteem and mental health' of some passengers.

Katie explained: 'I was lassoed by the seat belt. It just fitted, but if it had been digging into me anymore, I would have been very uncomfortable. If someone else was a different shape or a different size, they might not be able to tie it.

Katie, who's recently lost two stone, says she was shocked at how small the standard belt was, and says it could make plus-sized flyers feel 'judged' if they have to ask for an extender

The beautician from Scotland took a photo of how she had just a thumb's worth of room after she put the belt at its maximum width

'With other airlines, you can usually pull the length of the belt a little and try to adjust it, but there was none of that.

'It was across me, and there was about an inch [of room] at the bottom and nothing else. If it was any tighter, I would have been very uncomfortable on the flight.'

She added: 'I'm not delusional, I know I'm a bigger woman. But there has to be some bit of give, especially since I lost two stone in weight.

'Because it just fit, I didn't say anything. I didn't want to take one of the extender belts from someone who might need it. It's very frustrating.'

Keen traveller Katie, pictured in Hollywood, has now called for airlines to address sizing on seatbelts, saying they could potentially pose a safety risk if people are too shy to ask for an extender

Pot luck: The beautician also says that her return flight from Cork was fitted with a bigger seatbelt, suggesting inconsistency in sizing

Katie says that the short belts are fundamentally a 'safety issue' and believes that the airline could be viewed as 'fatphobic' by some passengers.

The activist is now calling for the public to listen to the concerns of plus-sized people - rather than telling them to 'lose weight' or accusing them of demanding 'bigger seats'.

'There must have been other people on the flight in a worse position than me. If it just fits, even if it's a bit tight, I'll let someone else use the belt.

'I think anyone who has experienced fatphobia could see it that way - I have unfortunately experienced a lot of this kind of thing. I don't think it's fatphobic, but I think a lot of people could see it that way. I think it's them cutting corners more than being fatphobic.

'A size 16 is the size of the average UK woman. By this logic, the average person needs an extender.

Katie says that her confusion only heightened on her flight home the following week, when she was given a fitting seat belt - which led her to claim that flying with Ryanair is like 'potluck'.

Ryanair has been contacted for comment.

The beautician claims that she hasn't yet contacted Ryanair about the issue as she believes that her complaint would fall on deaf ears but used her social media to shame them instead.

Katie said: 'I flew on Friday, and I was lassoed by the seatbelt. I flew back again on the Monday and the seatbelt was looser. So unless I'm doing magic tricks over the weekend, this is a bit of an issue.

'I was more annoyed than anything else, because it's like potluck getting on a flight'.

'I haven't complained before because I feel like it would fall on deaf ears. It's one of those situations that's like, "put up or shut up".

'Maybe it's because it's a budget airline you [should] just expect these things, but we're not [even] getting cheap flights anymore.

'I put the post up on Facebook [because] it would help someone else feel less alone. It could be quite damaging for people, to feel like it's just them.

Katie said of the response to her post: 'There's a lot of people who reached out and told me that they bought their own belt extender because they were afraid of the embarrassment'

'There's a lot of people who reached out and told me that they bought their own belt extender because they were afraid of the embarrassment.

'It's nothing to do with the size of you - it's to do with the size of the belt and the safety aspect of it.'

Katie's post racked up more than 400 likes, shares and comments on Facebook, and several viewers shared their own experiences in the comment section.

One said: 'Last year flying to Dublin, during the flight out the belt fit fine and I felt really good!

'On the way home, not a chance. I hated myself so much and it took everything I had not to cry.'

Another added: 'I have just flown to Croatia and had to ask for a belt extender. I don't give a flying f*ck what people think but you can see the looks of disgust.'
A woman was told she had the liver of an alcoholic at just 10-years-old when she was diagnosed with cirrhosis, a scarring of the liver.

Megan McGillin, 21, from Northern Ireland, was told by doctors that, despite them not knowing how she acquired the disease, it could ultimately cause her liver to cease functioning.

The medical student, who also won Miss East Belfast 2023, was told that by the age of 18, a liver transplant would be necessary, according to the BBC.

But Megan defied the odds and kept fit and healthy, and by the time her 18th birthday came around, doctors delayed the procedure until she was 21.

When Megan, who 'just kept powering through', got to to her 21st birthday, she did not require a liver transplant, and now doctor's have taken away all timelines.

Megan McGillin, 21, from Northern Ireland, was diagnosed with cirrhosis, a scarring of the liver at the age of ten

Cirrhosis is a chronic liver disease that can involve the loss of liver cells or permanent scarring of the organ.

When the healthy liver tissue is lost and replaced with scar tissue, it can block blood flow to the liver.

Early symptoms include poor appetite, fatigue and feeling weak.

As a result of the diagnosis, Megan had to give up contact sports, which were a 'major' part of her life.

But she continued to maintain a healthy lifestyle with regular exercise, including rowing for the Irish high-performance team during her school years.

The disease has a longstanding association to excessive alcohol consumption, which is why medics compared Megan's live to that of an alcoholic at the age of ten.

'I'd obviously never drank any alcohol before, and my mother was gobsmacked at the idea that a doctor would tell me that I had the liver of an alcoholic,' she told BBC News NI.

When Megan was diagnosed with liver disease at the age of ten, doctors compared her liver's condition to that of an alcoholic

Megan kept fit and healthy despite suffering from fatigue, and she believes that staying active has allowed her liver to work for longer

WHAT IS LIVER DISEASE? There are more than 100 types of liver disease. The most common types are alcohol-related liver disease, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and the blood-borne virus hepatitis. Around two million Britons are affected by a form of the disorder. The main causes are: Obesity

Alcohol abuse

An undiagnosed hepatitis infection Symptoms are rare until the disease is advanced. It may then cause weight loss, reduced appetite and jaundice. Medication is available, however, a transplant may be necessary in severe cases. Source: NHS Choices Advertisement

Given the damaging effects of alcohol on the liver, Megan has vowed to never drink alcohol.

When she explains to others that she is alcohol-free due to liver disease, Megan said that people wrongly assume that it's because she previously abused it.

Despite Megan's optimism regarding her future, she remains realistic in her expectations.

And despite her admiration surrounding organ donation, Megan hopes that her biological liver will remain with her for as long as possible.

She said: 'That [liver transplant] could be tomorrow, that could be next week, five years, 10 years, I just don't know.'

The medical student added that while the opportunity to receive an organ from a donor is 'amazing', it's equally scary as you do not know how the body will react.

Earlier this year, Megan won Miss Beauty With a Purpose 2023, with the intention of raising awareness on organ donation.

Despite not entering the competition for the final result, winning the title was an 'honor'.

In her Instagram post, she wrote: 'Entering Miss Northern Ireland this year for me was not about winning the overall title and crown but to increase my platform for raising awareness of Organ Donation.

'I haven't just done this for the purpose of the competition, one day organ donation will save my life.

Winning this title is an honour'.
Ted Lasso star Hannah Waddingham has been widely praised for dropping out of a BBC Proms Bank Holiday concert at the 11th hour to show solidarity with the ongoing performers' strikes - although many fans they were 'sad' not to see her on stage.

Waddingham, 49, was set to be the star turn at the Fantasy, Myths and Legends concert at the Albert Hall on Monday evening, but announced she would not be appearing yesterday afternoon, just hours before the curtain was due to rise.

She told her fans at 3:39pm that she would be 'respectfully' not host the show as a mark of support for the ongoing SAG-AFRA actor strikes, which have seen artists and performers taking industrial action since July 14th.

Around 20 minutes later, the BBC Proms handle also broke the news to disappointed fans on its own Twitter account, saying: 'Due to the ongoing Screen Actors Guild strike, Hannah Waddingham has decided, sadly, she can no longer host this evening.'

The Ted Lasso and Eurovision star was set to host the Fantasy, Myths and Legends concert at the Albert Hall on Monday evening...but pulled out in solidarity with the SAG-AFTRA strike just hours before

Waddingham, who shot to fame as AFC Richmond boss Rebecca Welton in Ted Lasso after a lengthy West End career, told her 280,000 followers on X: 'Hey guys, I very sadly wont be able to host tonights @BBCproms Fantasy, Myths and Legends.

'It will be a magical night, but due to my ongoing support for the @sagaftra strike I must respectfully step down. I look forward to being back at @RoyalAlbertHall PDQ (pretty damn quick)!'

The actress, who won a legion of new fans as the host of this year's Eurovision Song Contest in Liverpool, was widely supported for taking a stand as part of the Screen Actors Guild strikes, although some fans couldn't hide their disappointment.

Waddingham, seen performing last year at the Royal Albert Hall, said she would 'respectfully' not host the event 'due to my ongoing support' of the actors strike which began in July

BBC presenter Katie Derham took the helm at the eleventh hour instead

One wrote: 'Why did Hannah say yes in the first place? She could have said NO!!! Straight away. Disappointed!'

Another added: 'Oh so sad to hear this. was looking forward to listening to your beautiful voice. but youve got my full support on that strike lady. its for a greater good.'

One fan penned: 'Thats beyond disappointing but well done for sticking with your colleagues.'

Another theatre fan wrote: 'Fully respect your decision, but I was so looking forward to this. Hope the strike sees eventual results. I'll just watch an episode of T Lasso instead.'

The SAG-AFTRA strike is the latest of ongoing employee disputes in Hollywood.

The action has brought the industry to a virtual standstill, forcing many film and TV productions to shut down, and marks the first time in more than 60 years that both actors and writers have gone on strike.

The WGA strike, which saw writers crossing the picket line, has been going on since early May.

Under the rules of a strike, all Sag-aftra members will not be able to film any movie or TV series - which means that almost every show and film that's currently in the works will be delayed indefinitely until the problem is resolved.

British union Equity, the sister organisation to Sag-aftra, said in a statement in July that they are are 'full square [sic] behind' their US counterpart.

British actors including Brian Cox, Simon Pegg and Andy Serkis have also been among those supporting the US strike over here.

On July 21st, dozens of actors and performers descended on London's Leicester Square in solidarity with their colleagues in the US, who have walked out in protest at the pay and conditions in the industry.
Tourists were left stunned by prices at Temple Bar after receipt was shared

Tourists have hit out at The Temple Bar for charging 'extortionate' amounts for visitors to enjoy a pint after a receipt from the pub was shared online.

On August 28, Twitter account Pints of Beauty reposted a receipt shared by a reveller after visiting the Dublin tourist hotspot for a round of drinks on August 22.

The verified account - based in England, UK, and known as @pintsbeauty on the social site - posted the shocking photo for its 6,000 followers to debate over.

Posting the receipt on X, the website formerly known as Twitter, they wrote: 'I've had this sent through a few times, think we need to discuss. Tourist attraction or not, this is barbaric!! How can this be justified?'

Tourists and beer-lovers who frequent the Irish haunt or have visited shared their outrage over the inflated prices - with the price of a Guinness and Heineken costing almost ten Euros each.

MailOnline have contacted The Temple Bar for comment

Tourists have hit out at The Temple Bar for charging 'extortionate' amounts for visitors to enjoy a pint after a receipt for one round was shared by Twitter account @pintsbeauty (Photo: Getty)

On August 28, Twitter account Pints of Beauty reposted a receipt shared by a reveller after visiting the Dublin tourist hotspot for a round of drinks on August 22

The receipt with The Temple Bar's infamous logo printed at the top shows a total bill of 81.85 - yet, the punter had only purchased seven items

The receipt with The Temple Bar's infamous logo printed at the top shows a total bill of 81.85 - yet, the punter had only purchased seven items.

Two pints of Guinness - Ireland's most sought after beverage from tourists worldwide - amounted to 17.90, meaning that it costs 8.95 for one pint.

Next on the receipt is one pint of Heineken, setting the customer back a whopping 9.95.

Two vodka and tonic drinks were then purchased - costing 27 for both, meaning the price is set at 13.50 individually.

Finally, two Jameson whisky and ginger mixers also totalled 27, bringing the entire bill to 81.85.

However, at the bottom of the receipt, it is stated that the bar's service is not included in the total bill, but rather 23 per cent VAT, live music and a cover charge.

Furious tourists and punters took to the comments below Pint of Beauty's post to express their shock over the 'crazy' charges.

One user exclaimed, 'Tourist attraction!' while another wrote, 'Come to London! It's cheaper,' accompanied with a laughing emoji.

Furious tourists and punters took to the comments below Pint of Beauty's post to express their shock over the 'crazy' charges, which includes 9.95 for a pint of Heineken

One individual confirmed: 'Yea you don't come back with much after a trip to Dublin.'

Another person who had previously visited the Irish capital said: 'Went Dublin four years back, didn't go in due to crazy prices. Cheaper places nearby.'

A seething beer-enthusiast wrote: 'And that my friends is why these sh***y tourist pubs are not worth it. Robbing b******s.'

A final commenter ranted: 'I know, right? Heineken? Animals. Plus, that place is way overpriced and overrated. I went for my obligatory visit, but didn't buy anything.

'Went up the road and had a pint for a lot less and in a better environment. If I were younger, I may have stuck around. Too crowded.'

If you're heading to the Emerald Isle and fancy exploring alternative hidden Irish hotspots - with the intention of saving a few quid - this guide shines a light on a Star Wars filming location and a land inhabited by wallabies.
The mother of a man with special needs who went viral petting the King's Guard horse has revealed how he has had a lifelong love of the royal family.

Last week, Donny Curtis, from Ascot, was filmed being treated to the friendlier side of a member of the King's Guard in London.

In the heartwarming clip, he could be seen beaming with joy after a soldier moved his horse closer so he could get a picture and stroke the animal.

A video capturing the moment, which has racked up 44,000 views so far, was posted on the YouTube channel The King's Guards UK.

His mother Sandie told FEMAIL he has always loved the royal family and has even met Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh - a moment which she described as 'huge' for Donny.

Ascot-based Sandie Curtis, whose son Donny went viral petting the King's Guard horse, has revealed how he has a lifelong love of the royal family

Donny's mother Sandie told FEMAIL he has always loved the royal family and has even met Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh - a moment which she described as 'huge' for Donny

Speaking to Femail, Sandie explained: 'I met my husband when I lived in South Africa, and we adopted Donny there, when he was two-years-old.

'Although we were told he had complications, we did not realise the extent of his special needs; he has difficulty with speech, ADHD, global development delay.'

The family moved to the UK when Donny was five, and it was then that his love of the royals quickly grew.

Sandie explained: 'He watched one of the late Queen's celebration parties in Buckingham Palace - since then had always wanted to meet her.

'He loves the Royal family, has books with photos, watches the programmes etc.

'Being in the Royal Borough of Windsor, we are able to visit Windsor Castle free of charge, which he does often. We went to Buckingham Palace last Wednesday.'

And the family have even met a number of royals, including the Duchess of Edinburgh, whom Sandie said had been 'exceptionally kind' to Donny.

She said: 'When he was at the Park School, they were visited by Sophie, now Duchess of Edinburgh, which was a huge event in Donny's life.

'He then met her again on the Long Walk in Windsor, when she did a walk about during the Queen's platinum jubilee, and a few weeks later, again on the Long Walk, when she was on her way to Royal Ascot.'

Sandie revealed how she and her family have moved to the UK when Donny was five-years-old and his love of the royals began

In the clip, which warmed the nation's hearts when it went viral last week, Donny was overwhelmed with excitement at getting a closer look at the King's Guard horse.

The video was captioned: 'What A Kind and Priceless Moment by King's Guard towards a special teen!

'Guard looked and saw the special man and moved the horse towards him and when the man was done and wanted to go, he repeated, "Bye Bye" to the guard.

'What a precious moment to witness.'

People rushed to the comments to leave their thoughts on the adorable moment.

One person wrote: 'What a sweet young man. I loved watching his excitement. Thank you to the soldier for being so kind.'

Another said: 'The smile on that young boys face was priceless. The guards tried so hard to get his horse closer to him. I wish the tourists would of done the same. Beautiful moment.'

While another wrote: 'Thank you for sharing this moment! Thank you to the guard and for your kind heart toward the young man - you recognized his uniqueness and responded in such a compassionate way!

'He was genuinely discouraged by your lack of conversation with him, however, you found such a kind way to communicate with him and did you see his smile when you did?!?

In the clip the heart-warming moment showed the man wanting to stroke the horse when the soldier moved closer so he can get a picture

'He also noticed the horses bit and was explaining that to the woman (his mom?) with himvery smart young man! What a bright spot in my day - thanks to all of you!'

The touching scene comes after an elderly military veteran also witnessed the friendly side of a soldier he moved closer to her as she posed for a photo with her husband at Horse Guards Parade in Whitehall.

A video posted on social media shows the couple - both of whom were proudly displaying their medals - moving as close as they dare to the mounted soldier.

But, having apparently realised they have both served their country, the soldier, who is wearing his customary plumed helmet and armour, quickly urges his horse closer to them before allowing the woman to pat his steed's nose.

Beaming, the couple then move away and the soldier directs his horse back into position.

The video, which was originally posted on the popular Buska in the Park YouTube channel, was shared on Twitter and subsequently re-tweeted nearly 2,000 times.

Having apparently realised the woman and her husband have both served their country, the soldier quickly urges his horse closer to them before allowing the woman to touch the animal

The woman who posted the video via her account @manc_lass3 said: 'What a beautiful and fitting gesture.'

She added: 'God bless all in service, past and present, without their sacrifice we would be truly nothing today.'

Reacting, another user said: 'Well done to that young man, he must have made the lady's day.'

However, this year has also seen King's Guard troops also boost their reputation for snapping at tourists who step beyond acceptable boundaries.

In May, a woman was left furious after being 'pushed' out of the way by a member of the Life Guard after she moved into his path, having earlier been asked to get out of the way.

He shouted 'make way' and used his arm to move the woman out of his path, which left her furious.

The previous month, a member of the King's Guard had given a tourist a scare by shouting in her face when she tried to take a selfie with him.

The soldier stamped his foot, turned towards her and shouted: 'Do not touch the King's Life Guard!', all while holding a sword.

The King's Guard are posted outside at Horse Guards Parade from 10am to 4pm each day.
Queen Camilla joined children and the elderly for a poetry recital and tea party in Ealing earlier today.

The event, held at Fielding Primary School on Tuesday, was part of the Poetry Together initiative.

Poetry Together was launched in 2019 by broadcaster Gyles Brandreth in partnership with Dukes Education and National Poetry Day.

The royal, 76, who famously loves literature, was snapped beaming during the event which comes after her Summer break in Balmoral.

For the appearance, Camilla, donned a long-sleeved midi length dress, featuring a peacock feather print comprising rich blues, greens, and amber.

Queen Camilla was snapped beaming today as she attended the poetry recital and tea party at Fielding Primary School in west London

The royal appeared to be enjoying herself as she posed with children from the school in Ealing at the poetry-focused event

The shirt dress, which paired a classic silhouette with elegant design touches like subtle puff sleeves, was cinched in at the waist with a co-ordinating fabric belt.

Accessorising her frock, Camilla opted for a pair of low-heeled pumps, in a subtle amber tone that matched the accents in the print of her dress.

The royal, who was recently praised for her 'joy at wearing jewellery' by former Vogue editor Suzy Menkes, sported a few carefully chosen pieces.

Among them was a pair of dangly gold statement earrings, crafted in the shape of fish.

It is thought they were made by jeweller Lalaounis, and their estimated value has previously been reported as between 15,000-20,000.

The queen also sported a selection of necklaces and gold bangles to complete her outfit, including her blue Alhambra Van Cleef & Arpels bracelet, which she has been seen wearing on numerous occasions.

Meanwhile, her trademark very light blonde bob was styled into soft waves, and she opted for a fresh, classic make-up look.

During the proceedings today, children and their grandparents gathered at the school's assembly hall to recite a variety of poems from memory.

Camilla, who described the recital as 'absolutely incredible' seemed to be enjoying the event very much, as she was photographed smiling and clapping

Queen Camilla (pictured) looked fresh faced and elegant as she attended the event in Ealing, west London today

Broadcaster Gyles Brandreth (pictured, right) launched Poetry Together in 2019 by in partnership with Dukes Education and National Poetry Day. He attended today's event

Queen Camilla (pictured, right) is snapped laughing with poet Roger McGough (pictured, left) during the event today

One group of schoolchildren and their grandparents recited Mary Howitt's 1829 poem The Spider And The Fly for the queen.

Camilla said their performance was 'absolutely incredible'.

'Brilliant, that was absolutely incredible,' she said.

'It's a long poem to remember.'

After watching the recitals, Camilla presented participants with certificates.

She then joined two performers dressed as Alice and the Mad Hatter on stage to cut a cake baked at Buckingham Palace.

Introducing the honey and cream sponge cake, Brandreth said that the queen had brought it with her.

Camilla and Gyles Brandreth joined children and care home residents on stage for the Poetry Together recital today

Performers dressed as Alice (Hannah Griggs) and the Mad Hatter (Rory Brandreth-McConnachie) joined the royal on stage to cut a cake for the tea party

Hannah Griggs (pictured, left) and Rory Brandreth-McConnachie (pictured, right) help the queen (pictured, middle) cut a cake for the tea party

Gyles Brandreth (pictured, right) who launched Poetry Together in 2019 by in partnership with Dukes Education and National Poetry Day appeared to enjoy entertaining attendees

POETRY LOVERS: According to Gyles Brandreth (pictured, left), he has 'always loved poetry'. Meanwhile, Camilla (picture, right) is a famous lover of literature

'I didn't bake it,' she said, to laughter from the audience.

She then stood up to cut the cake.

As well as performances by children and the elderly, the Queen watched a recital by poet Roger McGough.

She then attended a tea party in the school, where she met care home residents involved in the scheme.

Speaking at the event, Brandreth said he had 'always loved poetry'.

'I have always loved poetry, since I was a very young boy and began learning poetry as a very young boy,' he said.

'I am still learning poetry.

During the event today, the royal (pictured, right) officially opened the library at the school in Ealing, west London

BEAMING: The smiling royal (pictured, centre) was snapped speaking to Baroness Dame Floella Benjamin

During the poetry recital engagement today, the royal met with a number of children and care home residents

Among those reciting their poems at the event was Benjamin Andrews (pictured, left) who read his poem about a family member with cancer

'The poem I'm learning at the moment is quite a short one it's a limerick.

'There was a young man from Peru.

'Whose limericks stopped at line two.'

Poetry Together encourages schoolchildren and the elderly to come together and recite poetry.

Since its foundation, more than 800 care homes and schools have participated in the initiative.
Prince Christian has become godfather to his second cousin - the newly born Prince Gustav Albrecht of Sayn-Wittgenstein-Berleburg - following a christening ceremony last Saturday.

The baby, whose parents are Prince Gustav - Queen Margrethe's nephew - and Princess Carina of Denmark was welcomed by surrogate in the US in June.

The couple, both 54, have been together for more than two decades and married in a lavish ceremony in Germany last summer.

The pair spent years fighting a strict inheritance rule set by the Prince's Nazi grandfather in the 1930s, which prevented them from tying the knot.

Christian, 17 - who is the son of Crown Prince Frederik and Crown Princess Mary - is one of the six godparents to baby Gustav.

Christian (standing, far left), 17 - who is the son of Crown Prince Frederik and Crown Princess Mary - is one of the six godparents baby Gustav will have. Pictured standing from left to right: Christian, Ellen Hillings, Arabella Gaggero, Prince Franz-Albrecht and Prince Carl-Anton. Pictured seated from left to right: Princess Theodora of Greece, Prince Gustav, Prince Gustav Albrecht and Princess Carina

The others are: Princess Theodora of Greece, 40, actress Ellen Hillings, 56, Prince Franz-Albrecht, 40, Arabella Gaggero and Prince Carl-Anton.

Pictures from the christening at Berleburg Castle in Germany, shared by the royal household's Instagram account, show the proud godparents smiling for a photo with the new parents and their two-month old son.

Another sweet snap shows Gustva's grandmother Princess Benedikte admiring her grandchild in a cot as she fondly pinches his cheek.

Earlier this summer, the Danish Royal Household issued a statement on Gustav and Carina's behalf, confirming their happy news.

It read: 'The newborn prince was born in the United States with the help of a surrogate mother.

'Both Prince Gustav and Princess Carina were present during the birth.'

Prince Gustav is the son of Queen Margrethe's sister Princess Benedikte and her husband Prince Richard - who passed away in 2017 at the age of 82.

Until last year, Gustav and Carina were banned from marrying as a result of a legal clause set by the royal's grandfather Prince Gustav Albrecht.

Pictures from the Christening, shared by the royal household's Instagram account, show the proud godparents smiling for a photo with the new parents and their two-month old son

Another sweet snap shows Princess Benedikte admiring her grandchild in a cot as she fondly pinches his cheek

In the 1930s, he set up his will to prevent relations from inheriting family property if they marry someone not of Protestant, noble and Aryan descent.

By 1944, he went missing while serving as an officer in the German Army, during a mission near Orsha, Belarus. The soldier was declared MIA and no one sought an official declaration of death until Gustav was born in 1969.

Gustav's father Prince Richard was able to inherit property because his wife - Princess Benedikte of Denmark - met the strict and controlling criteria.

However, Carina Axelsson, 54 - who is an American author best known for the teen fashion detective series Model Under Cover - has Swedish and Mexican heritage, and hence didn't satisfy the will's agenda.

Before meeting Carina at a dinner party, Gustav had been engaged to Elvire Paste de Rochefort, who came from an aristocratic French family.

However, their nuptials were called off just two months before the wedding.

Gustav and Carina of Denmark pictured together in 2010. Until last year, the couple were banned from marrying as a result of a rule made by the royal's grandfather Prince Gustav Albrecht

Gustav reportedly met Carina in 2003 and the author later moved into the Schloss Berleburg estate with him.

'She even often appeared with a sparkling ruby and diamond cluster ring on the ring finger of her left hand,' The Court Jeweller reports. 'But marriage, it seemed, remained out of the question.'

Following Prince Richard's death in 2017, Gustav was faced with a legal battle as his great uncle Prince Ludwig-Ferdinand argued that he should get the fortune, Town and Country reports.

In 2020, German courts decided Gustav met the conditions of the will - and could inherit Berleburg Castle, where he and his wife married in front of 80 guests, including Prince Frederik and Princess Mary.

Crown Prince Frederik (far left) and Princess Mary (far right) attended the couple's wedding at Berleburg Castle in Germany

According to the Dorset Echo, in 2019 Carina had been splitting her time between Germany and Purbeck, as she enjoyed the English town as a scenic 'writing bolthole'.

The author, who grew up in Silicon Valley, California, told the outlet that her own experience with the monarchy inspired her to write the Royal Rebel series, which is about a fictional teenage princess.

'I also wanted to break down this idea that princesses can do and have whatever they want,' she said.

'In fact, as part of a reigning monarchy, life may be privileged but it's very different from what people imagine.'

In the 2019 interview with the newspaper, Carina had also revealed that she enjoyed literature from a young age, especially favouring the works of Beatrix Potter and C.W.Anderson.

She has also worked as a model - including shoots for Vogue, Elle and Armani - which is the career path that initially led her to Europe.

Carina balanced her modelling work in Paris with illustration night classes before beginning her foray into the creative industry, and eventually, book writing.
Infanta Sofia of Spain has left her residence in Madrid to start school in Wales today.

Sofia, 16, left her residence at 'Prince Pavilion' near Zarzuela Palace to start school at UWC Atlantic College in the Welsh county of Vale of Glamorgan.

The school is often referred to as 'Hippie Hogwarts' thanks to its progressive approach to education and picturesque castle setting.

In photos released by the Spanish Royal Household, Sofia was pictured smiling as she wheeled her sage-coloured suitcase out to the car, as her parents, Queen Letizia, 50, and Felipe VI of Spain, 55, watched on.

Sofia sported casual clothes, donning a black and white plaid shirt, white trainers, khaki-coloured trousers and a black cropped top.

Sofia, 16, left her residence at 'Prince Pavilion' near Zarzuela Palace to start school at the UWC Atlantic College in Wales

The King and Queen beamed as they posed with their daughter, who was sat on the boot of the vehicle.

Queen Letizia donned a blue blazer with white trousers and an ivory top, also wearing sporty trainers. Whereas the King looked dapper, wearing a striped blazer, blue shirt, navy trousers and trainers.

The college is for pupils aged 16 to 19 years of age and students from all over the world, 150 countries to be exact, live and study together.

The college is based at St Donats Castle, south Wales in a 12th century castle set in 122 acres of woodland and farmland with its own valley and seafront.

It was founded in German educationalist Kurt Hahn, is situated at the 12th century St Donat's Castle on the country's south coast and costs a whopping 67,000 per year for courses including Tai Chi, the theory of knowledge and Tibetan literature.

The family looked cheerful, as Sofia petted a black pet and gave it a chew toy, but it seems the Spanish royal household will now be a lot quieter than it once was.

Sofia will follow in her sister's footsteps by attending the Welsh school, as Princess Leonor graduated with the International Baccalaureate from the UWC Atlantic College in May.

The Spanish King and Queen beamed as they posed with their daughter, who was sat on the boot of the vehicle

In photos released by the Spanish Royal Household, Infanta Sofia was pictured smiling as she wheeled her sage-coloured suitcase out to the car, as her parents watched on

This comes as the King and Queen's eldest daughter, Princess Leonor, 17, left to go to military academy earlier this month.

The heir to the Spanish throne must complete the three years in line with tradition as she follows the path of her father, King Felipe.

Rather like a boarding school, General Military Academy of Zaragoza follows a strict timetable during the week. but Leonor will be free to return home at the weekeneds if she's not on manouevres.

After training at the General Military Academy in Zaragoza, which is Spain's equivalent to Sandhurst, she will go to naval school, and will complete her three years at the General Air Academy.

The princess, who will be 18 in October, revealed her enthusiasm for soon being a cadet at the Princesa de Girona Foundation award ceremony in Girona, in Catalonia, on July 5.

She said: 'I have just finished high school and I am about to start a new stage with a period of military training.

'I am happy because I know how much the Spanish value our armed forces... it is an important moment in my life and I feel very excited and determined to continue learning and giving my best effort.'
Queen Margrethe of Denmark appeared elated as she enjoyed an eventful day of Summer activities today.

The 83-year-old monarch visited Vordingborg Municipality in Denmark, as part of her luxurious Summer cruise, which included a stop at Haarboelle dairy farm and a carriage ride through the city.

The Danish Queen appeared delighted while greeting the Mayor of Vordingborg Mikael Smed, as they strolled through Kornerup Town Hall, also in Vordingborg.

She made various stops during the royal visit, including a special one to greet fans and receive flowers from adoring children.

The action-packed parade forms part of the queen's Summer cruise on the Royal Yacht Dannebrog - and she looked splendidly elegant while doing so.

Queen Margrethe of Denmark (pictured) was spotted enjoying an eventful day of Summer activities

The 83-year-old monarch visited Vordingborg Municipality, Denmark, as part of her luxurious summer cruise, which included a stop at Haarboelle dairy farm and a carriage ride through the city

The action-packed parade forms part of the Queen's summer cruise upon the Royal Yacht Dannebrog (pictured)

The Danish queen was all smiles as she greeted royal fans - while some took in the chance to photograph the queen

For the event, the mother-of-two donned a navy blue blazer and matching hat, which she teamed with a white midi skirt and loafers.

She accessorised the look with a white leather strap bag, a white and blue printed scarf and white gloves.

Her face bore a delicate glow, which she glammed up with a bold pink lip, flower-shaped earrings and a neatly styled bun.

Royal fans lapped up her presence, while some took in the chance to photograph the queen with their phones.

The queen's summer break comes after a difficult year for her family, which was at loggerheads when the monarch announced she was stripping her youngest son Prince Joachim's children of their princely titles.

The family has since resolved its dispute, however Prince Joachim has announced he will be moving to Washington, US, in August to take up a post at the Danish Embassy to the USA.

Last September, the Danish Royal Palace announced that Prince Joachim's four children Nikolai and Felix - born from his first marriage - and Henrik and Athena, would no longer be princes and princess, and instead would be counts and countess.

Explaining her decision, the Queen said the new titles would allow her four grandchildren from her second son to live more normal lives.

The royal made various stops during the official visit, including a special one to receive flowers from adoring children. Here, she is pictured alongside the mayor of Vordingborg Municipality, Mikael Smed

Margrethe looked elegant in a matching navy blue blazer and hat which she teamed with a white midi skirt and loafers

While aboard the royal yacht, Margrethe was flanked by sailors, yacht staff and security teams

At the time, Prince Joachim publicly spoke out against his mother's decision - claiming that his children had been 'harmed' in the process.

Since then, the family has put on a united front, with the Queen and Prince Joachim having worked out their differences.

In April, Prince Joachim and his children joined with his brother and heir apparent, Crown Prince Frederik and his family, to appear with their mother on the balcony of the Royal Palace to celebrate her 83rd birthday.

The Prince has also announced in recent months that he is heading to the US with his family to take up a post in the Danish Embassy in Washington DC.

His post is expected to begin later this Summer.
Packets of rigatoni pasta was packaged and labelled as penne

An Italian chef has slammed Woolworths for 'misleading' customers after spotting incorrectly labelled pasta packets on shelves.

Vincenzo, who heads the Vincenzo's Plate YouTube channel, was furious when he saw packets of rigatoni pasta labelled as penne.

The label, which was likely a once-off packaging mistake by Woolworths - angered the passionate Italian chef who vented his frustrations on social media.

'Can you please help me here? I can't believe this Australian supermarket is selling rigatoni pasta as penne. This is false advertising and doesn't teach the younger generations,' he wrote.

'It could be [a labelling issue], I really hope it is and they're not trying to make Italians angry,' he added.

Italian chef Vincenzo, who lives in Sydney, was furious when he saw packets of rigatoni pasta packaged and labelled as penne at Woolworths (pictured)

While the difference may be subtle and unnoticeable to some Aussies, the fault angered the passionate Italian chef who vented his frustrations on social media

When comparing the two different types of pastas rigatoni is bigger in size and has a straight edge while penne is thinner and the edges are cut diagonally.

There's also little difference in price, with the Woolworths essentials penne costing 90c per packet and the rigatoni priced at $1 per packet.

More than 5,100 people liked the Facebook post, many of which found Vincenzo's reaction amusing.

'I loved it! Finally cheaper rigatoni!' one wrote, another said: 'I mean there could be a lot worse things.'

'It explains below - 'Australian Pasta,' a third said and commented on the advertising.

However, others pointed out it likely would've been a labelling error or issue.

'I feel like this may be a labelling issue! I haven't seen it before,' one woman wrote and Vincenzo said: 'It could be, I really hope it is and they're not trying to make Italians angry.'

A Woolworths spokesperson told FEMAIL the error was a 'one-off' occurrence.

'We don't know how this one got past-a us! We apologise for this error which appears to be a one-off instance and are currently looking into this with our supplier,' the spokesperson said.

Earlier this month an Italian tourist was appalled by what she found when visiting an Australian supermarket for the first time.Sofia Saccone stopped by a local Woolworths store on the Gold Coast and critiqued some of the 'terrible' products on the shelves

Earlier this month an Italian tourist was appalled by what she found when visiting an Australian supermarket for the first time.

Sofia Saccone stopped by a local Woolworths store on the Gold Coast and critiqued some of the 'terrible' products on the shelves.

From SPC Tomato and Cheese Spaghetti to Heinz Spaghetti with Meatballs, Ms Saccone said these were 'Australian buys that would send an Italian into a coma'.

In a TikTok video she held each product to the camera and shared why she disapproved of it.

While holding a four-pack of tinned SPC spaghetti Ms Saccone said: 'This is so bad, I cannot even explain how bad it is.'

She was disgusted that the Heinz tinned spaghetti was pictured on the can as being served atop a piece of sliced bread.

Supermarket-brand mozzarella and pastas also received her scorn.

'If you're an Italian living in Australia, never try the Woolies or Coles pasta. This is awful,' she said and recommended 'spending a little bit more' on alternative pasta.

Ms Saccone described Continental Alfredo and Kraft Mac & Cheese as 'so bad' and would never buy it.

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Tiny detail spotted in Chemist Warehouse logo that shoppers claim 'changes everything'
Those in the know are ditching the bustling tourist streets of Noosa and Byron Bay this summer for a hidden gem coastal town that looks straight out of a postcard.

Peregian Beach (pronounced Per-ridge-n) is a short 12 minute drive south of Noosa Heads and 20km north of Queensland's Sunshine Coast airport.

Buzzing with locals and oozing a laidback coastal village vibe, the small town of 3,700 people boasts breathtaking white sandy beaches and a rich selection of cafes, seaside restaurants, clothing boutiques and leafy parks.

Just over the sand hills at the southern end of the beach is the Peregian Environmental Park where thousands of colourful wildflowers bloom in spring and on the western side lies the picturesque Lake Weyba National Park.

The town also connects to the southern extension of the Noosa National Park where visitors can experience a rich mix of coastal heath and scrub and towering rainforest.

Peregian Beach (pronounced Per-ridge-n) is a short 12 minute drive south of Noosa Heads and 20km north of Queensland's Sunshine Coast airport

The once-volcanic Emu Mountain is also nearby; Peregian means emu in the indigenous Kabi Kabi language.

The 5km-return summit walk is a fairly easy climb with gorgeous coastal and hinterland views of the coastline right up to the Glass House Mountains.

The village square is filled with little stores packed with vintage finds, furniture, art, crystal glassware and antique jewels; they're neighboured by gourmet cafes and local producers selling all kinds of tasty, native treats.

'Wow. Just a beautiful beautiful place. Beach was so clean and the sand was divine. Not too busy which was great. Nice shops and restaurants around too. Just had a wonderful vibe. Very chilled after going here,' a traveller raved.

Just over the sand hills at the southern end of the beach is the Peregian Environmental Park where thousands of colourful wildflowers bloom in spring and on the western side lies the picturesque Lake Weyba National Park

Buzzing with locals and oozing a laidback coastal village vibe, the small town of 3,700 people boasts breathtaking white sandy beaches and a rich selection of cafes, seaside restaurants, clothing boutiques and leafy parks

'The beach at sunrise has to be experienced. Just miles of beautiful deserted fine sands as the tide ebbs. If you're near here just go because you can, make the time even to go sit for 15 mins and enjoy the smells and scenery of the coast.'

The talk of the town currently is the very newly opened essence, a boutique hotel and collection of beach homes nestled on the edge of the Noosa National Park.

The Hamptons-esque hideaway is likely to make the chic village a vibrant tourism destination not to be missed, with each of the 32 rooms all centred around the UNESCO-listed Biosphere that serves as the property's backdrop.

Those who visit can expect to lay in a hanging basket chair to watch the sun set over the treetops or enjoy one of two gorgeously designed guest pools, one with a pool bar that features the store's signature botanical tiled artwork.

The beach at sunrise has to be experienced. Just miles of beautiful deserted fine sands as the tide ebbs. If you're near here just go because you can, make the time even to go sit for 15 mins and enjoy the smells and scenery of the coast

The talk of the town currently is the very newly opened essence, a boutique hotel and collection of beach homes nestled on the edge of the Noosa National Park

Those who visit can expect to lay in a hanging basket chair to watch the sun set over the treetops or enjoy one of two gorgeously designed guest pools, one with a pool bar that features the store's signature botanical tiled artwork

It also sits just above one of the village's must-visit dining hubs - Outer Square - which serves up some of the best and heartiest meals on the coast.

'We are so excited to be bringing a resort of this calibre to Peregian Bach,' General Manager of essence, Damien Larkin, said.

'We are set to make a huge mark on the Sunshine Coast tourism scene, not only for providing a first-of-its-kind resort to the area but for championing local arts and craftspeople and providing dozens of new job opportunities and experiences for locals.'

READ MORE: Lacking inspiration for your next holiday? Here are seven little-known hidden gems in Australia you need to know about NOW
CQC survey shows people's experiences of care deteriorated in last five years

Almost half of maternity services in England checked under a new inspection programme are failing, analysis shows amid concerns over NHS care for mothers and babies.

Regulators began the audit last August after haunting details of the Shrewsbury maternity scandal  which saw hundreds of babies die or suffer brain damage due to inadequate NHS care  came to light.

Fifty-six services have so far been given ratings under the scheme. Eighteen were labelled as 'requires improvement' and seven were 'inadequate'.

Among the latest to be looked at are Hull Royal Infirmary, ranked 'inadequate', and Saint Mary's Maternity Hospital in Manchester, rated as 'requires improvement'. Dozens have yet to be assessed.

MailOnline has now compiled the full ratings and links to the report into an interactive map, allowing readers to see exactly how their local NHS site fares.

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Fifty-six services have so far been given ratings under the scheme. This includes Hull Royal Infirmary ranked 'inadequate' and Saint Mary's Maternity Hospital in Manchester rated as 'requires improvement'. Dozens have still yet to be assessed

Out of the 56 services given ratings under the new inspection programme by August 17th, 25 have been given an 'inadequate' or 'requires improvement' rating.

As part of its mission to improve the quality and safety of maternity care, the Care Quality Commission (CQC) is in the process of judging all 133 hospital maternity services that haven't been visited since April 2021.

Maternity services, which include wards as well as separate maternity centers, are ranked as either 'outstanding', 'good', 'requires improvement' or 'inadequate'.

This score is based on how they perform against markers such as safety, efficiency, care and leadership, according to the CQC.

Out of the 56 services given ratings under the new inspection programme, 25 have been given an 'inadequate' or 'requires improvement' rating.

Overall, seven services were rated 'inadequate' and just three were awarded an 'outstanding' rating.

MailOnline's audit revealed that the inadequate services are in Hull, Birmingham, Norfolk, Surrey, Dorset, Hertfordshire and east London.

Hull Royal Infirmary, which was handed the worst possible ranking earlier this month, was described as a 'chaotic environment which was not fit for purpose'.

CQC inspectors said Hull Royal Infirmary's maternity unit 'didn't always ensure women were safe' due to its design, use of facilities, premises and equipment.

They also noted that reported safety incidents and near misses were 'not investigated in a timely or effective manner', with some women and families waiting up to four months or even a year before the incident was investigated.

At Hull Royal Infirmary, pictured, inspectors noted reported incidents and near misses were 'not investigated in a timely or effective manner', with some women and families waiting up to four months or even a year before the incident was investigated

In the report for Birmingham Heartlands Hospital published in June, the CQC notes that the safety of women and babies were put at risk because they were not always assessed in a timely manner.

The report reveals that some women and their families were forced to wait for up to four hours for the pregnancy assessment in a emergency room.

It also states 'the service did not have enough staff to care for women and keep them safe'.

Meanwhile, the maternity service at Poole Hospital in Dorset was marked down to inadequate by the CQC in its latest inspection in March. The report revealed the unit closed four times in the past year due to staffing shortages.

A lack of workers and beds also led to 170 delays to the induction of labour in six months, plus some caesarean sections were delayed and more were cancelled.

St Peter's Hospital in Surrey is another service categories as inadequate. In March, it was criticised by CQC inspectors for its staffing shortages, not progressing safety incidents fast enough and for staff not completing mandatory maternity training.

Donna Ockenden, chair of the Independent Review into Maternity Services at the Shrewsbury and Telford Hospital NHS Trust

Katie Wilkins, 26, had a still born baby girl, Maddison, in Feb 2013 at Royal Shrewsbury Hospital

Richard Stanton and Rhiannon Davies, pictured at their home in Hereford, Herefordshire. Rhiannon is holding a teddy bear - a gift for their daughter Kate who passed away at just 6hrs of age. Her death was later found to have been avoidable

The new CQC inspection programme was launched in the wake of hundreds of baby deaths at the Shrewsbury and Telford NHS Trust.

An inquiry into the scandal, led by midwifery expert Donna Ockenden, found that 300 babies had died or been left brain-damaged due to 'repeated errors in care'.

The two-year investigation, published in March 2022, also revealed there were 29 cases where babies suffered severe brain injuries and 65 cases of cerebral palsy.

It was found that the trust repeatedly failed to properly monitor babies' heart rates and did not use drugs properly during labour.

'Deplorable and harrowing': The key findings of Dr Kirkup's East Kent report The panel investigated an 11-year period from 2009 at two maternity wards in Margate and Ashford, Kent, and found: Up to 45 babies might have survived if they had received better care

Infants died while others were left badly hurt as a result of failings at East Kent NHS Trust

Report found 'clear pattern' of 'suboptimal care' that led to significant harm

Failures to listen to families, as well as 'culture of deflection and denial'

Staff acted in ways which made the experience of families 'unacceptably and distressingly poor'

Panel heard examples of uncompassionate care 'that shocked us', a culture of blaming women, poor teamwork, a lack of professionalism and a tendency to deflect responsibility when things went wrong

Trust prioritised reputation management to the detriment of being open and straightforward to families Advertisement

Staffing and training gaps, as well as midwives being determined to keep caesarean section rates low, were highlighted as causes of some deaths.

In another report published in October exposing the failures of two hospitals which are part of East Kent Hospitals Trust, it revealed there were 12 cases where a baby received brain damage due to getting insufficient oxygen, but there could have been a different outcome had the baby received better care.

An investigation at Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust, which started in September 2022, is looking into 1,700 similar cases.

Already reports claim there were dozens of deaths, stillbirths and babies left with brain damaged after mistakes.

The Royal College of Midwives suggests staff shortages and lack of funding is making it harder for midwives to deliver better-quality services. It is estimated the NHS is short of 500 midwives.

Staff shortages were blamed in all three of the unfolding scandals with reports of the Shrewsbury scandal stating 'overstretched' staff and 'training gaps' as problems.

'Every woman deserves the best-quality, safest care throughout their pregnancy, and that is what midwives and maternity staff strive to deliver', said Birte Harlev-Lam, executive director at the Royal College of Midwives.

'Sadly, their efforts are all too often undermined by staff shortages, and a lack of investment going back years.

'We acknowledge and welcome the Government's pledge to invest in the recruitment and retention of staff.

'This now needs to happen at pace, working with the RCM and those staff on the ground to ensure the solutions are both workable and sustainable.'

Earlier this year, a major survey of 20,900 women by the CQC found the number reporting a positive experience of pregnancy, labour and postnatal care had plummeted.

Nearly four in ten women struggled to get medics to help them while giving birth and over half were not always able to get advice on feeding after being sent home.

The lack of availability of staff appears to have dented women's confidence in maternity services in recent years and comes as the NHS struggles with midwife shortages.

Overall, just over two-thirds of those polled said they 'definitely' had 'confidence and trust' in the staff delivering their antenatal care.

Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother Hospital in Margate is one of the hospitals criticised for in the new review into maternity care at East Kent Hospitals University NHS Foundation Trust. The review found 45 babies that died could have lived with better care

A maternity survey conducted by the CQC in 2022 showed people's experiences of care has deteriorated in the last five years

Carolyn Jenkinson, deputy director of regulatory leadership at CQC, said: 'Across the country we know that many women and people using NHS maternity services receive good, safe care during pregnancy, labour and postnatally.

'But sadly that's not everyone's experience.

'In recent years there has been an increased national focus on maternity safety which is both welcome and crucial to improvement, but the pace of change needs to be accelerated.

'There is more to do, and we cannot afford to lose momentum. Safe, high-quality maternity care for all is not an ambitious or unrealistic goal.

'It should be the minimum expectation for women and babies  and is what staff working in maternity services across the country want to provide.'
Covid was to blame for just 1 percent of weekly deaths from all causes across the US in the most recent week, CDC data shows.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Covid dashboard shows 324 Covid deaths were registered in the week ending August 19 - making up just 1.7 percent of the overall fatalities that week.

For comparison, the virus was behind one in three deaths from all causes at America's pandemic peak in 2021.

Just 1.7 percent of the 324 deaths from all causes during the week ending Aug. 19 listed the virus

The primary or underlying cause of death is defined as the disease, situation or event that initiated the chain of events directly resulting in death. PICTURED: People wearing masks wait to enter the Memorial Regional Hospital in Hollywood, Florida, in July 2020

The percentage of Covid deaths in the week ending Aug. 19 represents a slight increase from the previous week and continues a five-week upward trend, but is a drastic decline from the peak of the pandemic, when 30 percent of deaths listed Covid as a cause.

The dashboard shows Washington, Florida, Tennessee, North Carolina, Maryland and New York all have higher rates of deaths due to Covid. Maryland and Florida have the highest, at 3.4 percent.

Washington, Tennessee, North Carolina and New York all hover around 2 percent.

Data also shows the death rate is slightly higher among women than men, and death rates are highest in people 75 years and older.

The new Covid data will be reassuring at a time when panic is rising across the US as highly transmissible new Covid variants circulate, leading to more infections and hospitalizations and causing the reimplementation of some Covid mandates.

New variants EG.5, or Eris, and BA.8.26, or Pirola, have been detected in several countries around the globe and in the US recently.

These variants are highly mutated and thought to be better at avoiding vaccine and natural immunity, causing more infections.

Infections appear to have doubled across the US amid the emergence of these variants and hospital admissions among people with the virus have risen for the fifth week in a row - but still remain at near-historic lows.

Crucially, however, Covid deaths are not rising quickly.

The panic about a Covid upswing last week saw the Hollywood movie studio Lionsgate reinforce mask mandates, asking its employees to don face coverings at its Santa Monica, California offices. However, just several days later, the movie studio reversed its decision.

The above graph shows the percent of positive Covid cases (tan line) and the weekly number of new Covid hospitalizations (blue bars) as of the week ending Aug. 12

Rutgers University in New Jersey and Morris Brown College in Georgia, both announced last week face masks will once again be required for staff and students.

Additionally, Kaiser Permanente hospital in Santa Rosa, California, and Upstate Community Hospital in Syracuse, New York, have both brought back mask mandates for doctors, nurses, patients and visitors.

Last week in Kentucky, the Lee County School District canceled classes less than two weeks after opening because nearly one-fifth of its students were out sick with a 'tripledemic' illness, including Covid, strep throat and the flu.

On Friday, President Biden said his administration will 'likely' recommend Americans receive another Covid booster vaccine in the coming weeks.

He signed a proposal on Friday asking Congress for more funding to update Covid vaccines to better protect against the new variants.

However, there is little interest among Americans to receive boosters and only 18 percent of eligible Americans have received any version of a booster.
In honor of the reversal of the ban on gay men donating blood, a former policy advisor under President Joe Biden will roll up his sleeve and give what he has to offer.

Dr. Robert Goldstein, former senior policy advisor at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention from 2021 to 2023 and a gay man, will donate blood Tuesday alongside his old mentor Dr Rochelle Walensky, former director of the CDC.

Dr Goldstein, now the commissioner of the Massachusetts Department of Public Health, has never been able to make the life-saving donation because he is a gay man, and up until May 2023, was forbidden from giving blood under a US Food and Drug Administration rule.

However, new rules announced by the FDA in May recently went into effect and now allow blood donations from millions of gay, bisexual and other men who have sex men.

Goldstein and Walensky will mark the occasion by donating blood together at the Red Cross Dedham Donation Center in Dedham, Massachusetts.

Dr Robert Goldstein (left) and Dr Rochelle Walensky (right) have been advocates for changing the FDA's blood donation rules for years

Dr Robert Goldstein and Dr Rochelle Walensky will donate blood together at the Red Cross Dedham Donation Center in Dedham, Massachusetts, pictured above

The pair have been advocates for changing the FDA's rules for years and in 2017 published a paper in The New England Journal of Medicine in the wake of the deadly shooting at Pulse nightclub in Florida calling for action on the rule.

In June 2016, a gunman shot and killed 49 people and wounded 53 more when he open fired in the gay nightclub in Orlando, Florida.

The doctors' paper specifically named the shooting as an impetus to propose changing the FDA's rules. While thousands of people waited in hours-long lines to donate blood for injured victims of the Pulse shooting, a tragedy that specifically targeted the LGBTQ+ community, 'one group was notably absent from these donation lines', the paper stated, referring to men who have sex with men.

FDA will ease ban on monogamous gay and bisexual men donating blood  relaxing policy brought in during 1980s AIDS epidemic The move comes after widespread calls from members of Congress, the American Red Cross and LGBT organizations to drop the ban put in place during the 1980s AIDS epidemic. Advertisement

'This prohibition was, of course, not the tragedy that day, but the added insult that gay and bisexual men were unable to offer this measure of help to their community was deeply felt', the paper continued.

One week after the shooting, 24 US senators wrote to the FDA asking the agency to revisit the policy that forbid gay men from donating blood.

Goldstein and Walensky's paper highlighted the 'flawed logic' of the ban prohibiting a gay man with only one partner who repeatedly has tested negative for HIV, but allowing a heterosexual man who had recently had unprotected sex with women, any of whom could have HIV or AIDS.

In 2020, the FDA updated its guidance to allow men who have sex with men to donate blood only if they abstained from sex with men in the previous three months.

In May, those rules were updated once again. Now, all donors are asked the same questions, regardless of gender, sex or sexuality and no one group of people is banned from being a donor.

The new rules ask anyone who has had new or multiple sexual partners in the previous three months and who has also had anal sex in that timeframe to wait three months to donate blood.

Before the updated guidelines, federal limitations on who could donate blood were once based on dated science from 1985 to protect America's blood supply from HIV, a disease that was still a mystery at the time.

When the FDA first enacted the ban during the AIDS epidemic, next-to-nothing was known about HIV and AIDS, and prior to 1985, there was no screening test for the diseases. The first treatment was not available until 1987.

Scientists did not know yet the diseases were spread through blood and sex and in the 1970s and 1980s, the US blood supply had been the source of thousands of HIV infections.

Now, however, the HIV screening test is just shy of 100 percent and every blood donation is tested for HIV.

In neighboring Canada, guidelines were changed one year ago and questions and criteria specifically for men who have sex with men were removed in September 2022. All donors are now asked if they have had new and/or multiple sexual partners or have had anal sex in the last three months. If they have, they are required to wait three months to donate.

Across the pond in the United Kingdom, similar blood donation rules apply. The country's National Health Service asks people who have had anal sex with a new partner in the last three months to wait three months before donating.
Private clinics are misdiagnosing 'vulnerable and desperate' patients with Lyme disease so they can offer them expensive treatments, a doctor has warned.

Dr Matthew Dryden, a consultant microbiologist for the NHS in Hampshire, said patients with chronic fatigue syndrome are being told they have the tickborne disease by profit-focused clinics.

He believes UK medics have taken the lead of the US, where a 'profitable medical industry' has developed around treating Lyme disease.

As a result, patients are being put on expensive and dangerously long courses of antibiotics and other medications, while 'serious treatable diagnoses are sometimes missed', according to Dr Dryden.

Lyme disease has been put under the spotlight in recent years by supermodel Bella Hadid, who regularly updates her social media followers on her ongoing battle against the bacterial infection.

'Vulnerable and desperate' patients are being misdiagnosed by profit-focused private clinic as having with Lyme disease, a condition spread by tick bites, a doctor has warned

Lyme disease has been put under the spotlight in recent years by supermodel Bella Hadid, who regularly updates her social media followers on her ongoing battle against the bacterial infection

Issuing his warning in a letter to the Times, he wrote: 'These clinics and laboratories are taking advantage of vulnerable and desperate people with chronic symptoms.'

Dr Dryden said some private clinics offering tests for Lyme disease even used overseas laboratories which provide 'the result that they want', rather than what the patient's results actually suggest.

He warned that once this diagnosis was received, some unscrupulous clinics are putting profit first to prescribe patients expensive courses of treatment.

Lyme disease, a bacterial infection spread to humans by infected ticks, can be difficult to diagnose.

The first sign is a tell-tale bullseye rash that develops where the person was bitten, but this only appears on some people.

WHAT IS LYME DISEASE? Lyme disease is a bacterial infection that is spread to humans by infected ticks. It causes symptoms including a circle or oval-shaped rash around a tick bite, which usually appears within four weeks of being bitten, but may take up to three months to show. Some people also get flu-like symptoms in the days after being bitten, including a high temperature, a headache, muscle and joint pain and a loss of energy. And a few of those treated for Lyme disease continue to have symptoms, such as tiredness, aches and a loss of energy, that can last for years. It's not clear why some suffer from ongoing symptoms and there is no agreed treatment for the disease. Not all ticks carry the bacteria that causes Lyme disease, but infected ticks can be found across the UK. High risk areas include grassy and wooded areas in northern and southern England, as well as the Scottish Highlands. People are advised to remove ticks safely and as soon as possible using tweezers. Advertisement

This rash can appear up to three months after the bite.

Sufferers then develop general flu-like symptoms, including fatigue, headache, swollen joints and a fever, which can last for a few weeks.

The delay between the bite, the rash which may not appear and the broad symptoms which could belong to a variety of other conditions, means patients can struggle to get a diagnosis.

Two blood tests that can diagnose Lyme disease are available, but the NHS warns they can be unreliable in the early stages of the disease.

A course of antibiotics is typically enough to treat most Lyme disease patients, though the process can take several weeks.

However, for reasons scientists are still exploring, some people with the disease can suffer ongoing symptoms for years.

The NHS warns that, as this form of the disease is still not understood, there is no agreed upon treatment.

Dr Dryden said the patients with chronic fatigue syndrome are among those being misdiagnosed with Lyme disease.

Chronic fatigue syndrome, also called myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME), is a poorly understood condition.

While it has a wide range of symptoms, the most common symptom is extreme tiredness.

The cause is unknown, but experts theorise it could be a consequence of a viral or bacterial infection or a problem with the immune system or hormones.

No specific diagnostic tests are available, meaning its usually diagnosed on symptoms and ruling out other conditions.

There is no cure, according to the NHS.

Previous research has suggested the vast majority of people diagnosed with Lyme disease do not have the condition.

Experts from John Hopkins University in the US found that out of a sample of over 1,200 patients diagnosed with Lyme disease over 13 years, three-quarters were not affected.

Lyme disease can be tricky to diagnose, a tell-tale bulls-eye rash may not appear in all people and the broad flu-like symptoms can also be caused by a variety of other conditions

Publishing their findings in the journal Open Forum Infectious Diseases, they said this had led to patients being commonly given 'unnecessary antibiotic treatment'.

About 850 people in England had laboratory confirmed Lyme disease in England last year, according to Government figures.

However, an additional 1,000 to 2,000 people were diagnosed with the disease without laboratory testing.

Only up to one in 20 tick bites are thought to cause Lyme disease in England, though risk varies by specific area and time of year.
The UK should be preparing for a bird flu pandemic amid concerns the virus could jump to humans, a leading public health expert has warned.

Professor Devi Sridhar, chair of global public health at Edinburgh University, said it is too early to say what will cause the next outbreak.

But there are 'signals' that there is a pattern emerging in avian flu's mutations, which means it could take off among humans at 'some point', according to the researcher, who advised the Scottish Government during the Covid crisis.

She called for the nation 'to prepare' to avoid a high death toll and disruptive restrictions which brought the country to a halt during the coronavirus pandemic.

The ongoing UK bird flu outbreak  caused by the H5N1 strain  has seen up to one million birds struck down by the virus, with experts fearing it is on the brink of spreading among people.

Four British poultry workers have already tested positive for the strain this year. The virus is usually picked up through close contact with an infected bird.

Professor Devi Sridhar, chair of global public health at Edinburgh University, said it is too early to say what will cause the next outbreak

The ongoing UK bird flu outbreak  caused by the H5N1 strain  has seen up to one million birds struck down by the virus, with experts fearing it is on the brink of spreading among people

Professor Sridhar, who has written a book called Preventable: How a Pandemic Changed the World and How to Stop the Next One, was yesterday asked about future outbreaks when she appeared at the Edinburgh International Book Festival.

She said: 'In terms of the next one, we can't say what it is but there are signals.'

Professor Sridhar added: 'We have enough signals to say there is a pattern emerging and that pattern isn't good in terms of the range of mutations we're seeing and it jumping into humans at some point, or other mammals that make the jump easier into humans.

'So we have to prepare  to avoid what happened, which was a tragedy for lives lost but also the restrictions put in place which harmed, as well, many people in terms of their livelihoods, mental health.'

She said she wrote her book 'partly for closure for me of what was a very difficult couple of years for the whole world' but also to capture the experience.

After the 1918 flu pandemic, she said that there had not been 'much written afterwards', saying that 'people just wanted to move forward'.

But she had written her book on the coronavirus outbreak because she 'thought before we move forward we need to remember and capture that'.

However, she said that time has been 'wasted' during Covid with Government leaders and health experts debating if action was necessary.

She said: 'I felt we wasted so much time in circles debating, "is the fatality rate 1 per cent or 3 per cent or 0.1 per cent", instead of actually working together and saying, "how do we contain this until we have vaccines, antivirals (and) doctors understand more about this disease".'

Professor Sridhar added: 'We spent a lot of debating is Covid worse than the restrictions  they're both bad.

A National Trust ranger clears dead birds from Staple Island, Northumberland, in July

The new cases come after Alan Gosling (pictured), a retired engineer in Devon, caught the virus after his ducks, some of which lived inside his home, became infected in 2022

UK scientists tasked with developing 'scenarios of early human transmission' of bird flu have warned that 5 per cent of infected people could die if the virus took off in humans (shown under scenario three). Under another scenario, the scientists assumed 1 per cent of those infected would be hospitalised and 0.25 per cent would die  similar to how deadly Covid was in autumn 2021 (scenario one). The other saw a death rate of 2.5 per cent (scenario two)

'The question is how the next time do we reduce the lives lost and the impositions put on people's lives, and the cost to the economy and mental health, that should be where we're at.'

Five cases of Brits becoming infected with H5N1 have been reported since the unprecedented ongoing outbreak took off in October 2021.

Globally, fewer than 900 human cases of H5N1, which kills close to 50 per cent of those it strikes, have ever been recorded.

Alan Gosling, a retired engineer in Devon who kept ducks at home, caught the virus in early 2022 after his ducks became infected.

He later tested negative after being in quarantine for nearly three weeks.

Two British poultry workers then tested positive for bird flu in May, followed by another two in July.

No signs of human-to-human transmission have yet been detected in the UK.

It is unclear whether the poultry workers who tested positive had 'true infections'  when the virus replicates in their nose and therefore posed a risk to others  or whether the virus could have sat in the back of the nose from contamination.

The potential bird flu cases were detected as part of asymptomatic testing.

Workers on sites with infected birds can be exposed through dust and virus fragments in the air, on the ground and on their clothing.

Symptoms of bird flu in humans may involve a very high temperature or feeling hot or shivery, aching muscles, a headache and a cough or shortness of breath.

According to the NHS, other early symptoms could also include diarrhoea, stomach pain, bleeding from the nose and gums and conjunctivitis.

People are strongly urged not to touch sick or dead birds because the virus is lethal, killing up to 56 per cent of people it does manage to infect.

H5N1  the avian influenza strain behind the current outbreak sweeping the world, considered the biggest ever  does not transmit easily between humans.

But mutations to the virus that makes mammal-to-mammal transmission easier could change that, some experts fear.
Beijing is trying to open up to the world after abandoning its zero-Covid policies

Beijing is finally dropping a requirement for incoming travellers to have a negative Covid test from tomorrow.

The move is part of China's effort to reopen to the world after it imposed border restrictions in March 2020 when the spread of the virus started to cause alarm.

It follows Chinese officials ending quarantine requirements for its citizens returning home from abroad in January this year.

President Xi Jinping's Government has gradually been expanding the list of expanding the list of countries Chinese nationals are permitted to travel to as well as increasing the number of flights to and from the country over the past few months.

China abandoned its draconian zero-Covid policy only in December, a set of measures that included dramatic full-city lockdowns and lengthy quarantines for people who tested positive for Covid.

A traveler walks through the international flight arrivals area at Beijing Capital International Airport, in April this year China will no longer require a negative Covid test result from incoming travelers starting from Wednesday

One such city-wide lockdown saw 25million people in the city of Shanghai locked down from April to June last year.

The lockdown led to suicides as trapped residents starved in their apartments.

China's polices also saw nightmarish scenes where residents were forcibly locked inside buildings to stop the virus from spreading.

These lockdowns could be imposed with no warning, trapping people in their homes, and even office buildings, for extended periods.

The Government's heavy-handed Covid policy led to rare protests in major Chinese city's like Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou and Nanjing, the most direct challenge to the Communist party since the bloody Tiananmen protests of 1989.

But the abolition of these polices led to a dramatic surge in Covid infections which overwhelmed China's hospitals and morgues.

A US Government funded analysis suggested the rapid withdrawal of the measures may have contributed to 2million excess deaths in the country in the following two months.

China officially estimates only 60,000 such deaths occurred.
The condition kills one in five sufferers in the US and is difficult to diagnose

An Army veteran contracted necrotizing fasciitis after a trip to the Bahamas

An Army veteran lost her leg after contracting a flesh-eating bacteria after doctors mistook the condition for a sprained knee.

Jennifer Barlow, 33, from Atlanta, Georgia, had just returned from a vacation in the Bahamas last January when she felt like something wasn't right.

Ms Barlow regularly went to the gym and was 'healthy as an ox,' but she suddenly felt weak, lying in bed for four days.

Her right knee had ballooned to 'at least three times the size' of her left knee, and it was red and hot to the touch.

Jennifer Barlow, 33, from Atlanta, Georgia, had just returned from a vacation in the Bahamas last January when she felt like something wasn't right. Her right knee had ballooned to 'at least three times the size' of her left knee, and it was red and hot to the touch. She was in 'excruciating' pain

Ms Barlow was placed in a medically induced coma for 10 days. When she finally woke up, she had already undergone 12 surgeries. She later had to have her leg removed

'I was in excruciating pain,' she told TODAY.com.

Doctors at Ms Barlow's local emergency room thought her knee was just sprained and sent her home with crutches and pain medication. However, the knee kept growing to look 'like a giant's leg.'

Ms Barlow was diagnosed with a rare bacterial infection called necrotizing fasciitis.

Dr Jonathan Pollock, Ms Barlow's physician at the Joseph Cleland Atlanta VA Medical Center, told TODAY.com: 'I was very concerned that she would not survive this.'

'It is fair to say that her life was in grave danger.'

Also known as flesh-eating disease, necrotizing fasciitis is a severe, rapidly spreading infection that kills one in five sufferers, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

It most commonly enters the body through a cut or other break in the skin, including burns, insect bites, and surgical wounds.

The condition can be difficult to diagnose because symptoms can mimic other illnesses. Symptoms include a red or warm area of the skin that spreads quickly, severe pain, and fever. As necrotizing fasciitis spreads, it can cause ulcers or blisters on the skin, skin color changes, pus or oozing, dizziness, fatigue, diarrhea, and nausea.

The CDC estimates 700 to 1,150 cases occur in the US every year. There are about 500 cases in the UK per year, according to the NHS.

Getting treatment immediately is key to keeping the infection from spreading. Antibiotics can be effective, though they don't always reach all infected areas.

Patients usually need multiple surgeries to remove as much dead flesh as possible.

Ms Barlow was placed in a medically induced coma for 10 days. When she finally woke up, she had already undergone 12 surgeries.

'I was confused and scared,' she said.

Ms Barlow underwent more than 30 surgeries total, including one to amputate her leg.

She also went into sepsis, the body's extreme reaction to an infection.

Sepsis occurs when chemicals released in the bloodstream to fight an infection cause inflammation throughout the body. This triggers a chain reaction, causing organs to fail.

Infections that lead to sepsis most commonly start in the lungs, urinary tract, skin, or gastrointestinal tract, but almost any infection can lead to sepsis.

The complication has been linked to one in three hospital deaths, according to the CDC.

Ms Barlow had more than 30 surgeries and is now raising money for a prosthetic leg

Symptoms can closely resemble the flu and include a very high or low body temperature, sweating, extreme pain, clammy skin, dizziness, nausea, high heart rate, slurred speech, and confusion.

Ms Barlow's case progressed to septic shock, which is characterized by a severe drop in blood pressure. Signs of septic shock, according to the Mayo Clinic, include not being able to stand up, extreme fatigue or not being able to stay awake, and a major change in mental status.

If left untreated, sepsis and septic shock are fatal.

It impacts 1.7 million Americans every year and kills 350,000, the CDC estimates.

In the UK, it affects 245,000 people annually and causes 48,000 deaths, according to The UK Sepsis Trust.

The most common cause of necrotizing fasciitis is group A strep, a form of bacteria that can cause strep throat.

Ms Barlow believes she may have been exposed to the bacteria while on vacation in the Bahamas. Doctors still aren't sure what caused it.

She returned home after four months in the hospital and is now raising money for a prosthetic leg.
READ MORE: Quarter of Americans believe MMR shot causes autism, poll finds

The share of children who are 'exempt' from having their school vaccinations is rising as antivax anxiety grips American parents.

Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shows for the 2021-2022 school year, 2.6 percent of kindergarteners in the US had a vaccine exemption, an increase from 2.2 percent for the prior school year.

Non-medical exemptions, those based on a parent's religious or philosophical beliefs are mainly behind the rise, suggesting that genuine health issues are not to blame.

The five states with the highest kindergartener vaccination exemption rates are Idaho (9.8 percent), Utah (7.4 percent), Oregon (7 percent), Arizona (6.8 percent) and Wisconsin (6.3 percent).

The above graph shows the trend in overall vaccination exemptions, medical exemptions and non medical exemptions over the last 11 school years

The above map shows the state by state rates of vaccination exemptions for the 2021-2022 school year, highlighting the top five states with the highest percentages of exemptions

For the 2021-2022 school year, 2.3 percent of kindergarteners with any exemption had a non-medical exemption.

This share is an increase from the prior school year, when 1.9 percent had non-medical exemptions.

Childhood vaccinations for kindergarten include those to protect against chicken pox, polio, measles, mumps, rubella, diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis, or whopping cough.

When it comes to medical exemptions, which are allowed when a child has a medical condition that prevents them from receiving a vaccine, that percentage has remained mostly consistent over the last 11 school years.

For the 2021-2022 school year, just 0.2 percent of kindergarteners had a medical exemption. A school year is measured from August to June the following year.

The states with the lowest percentages of vaccine exemptions are Mississippi, New York and West Virginia, all tied at 0.1 percent. California has a rate of 0.2 percent and Washington, DC has a rate of 0.5 percent.

Each state has different guidelines when it comes to vaccination requirements for schools and exemption guidelines. While some states may require all vaccines for kindergarten admission, others may only require a handful at the time, postponing others to future grades.

When it comes to exemptions, they fall into two categories: medical and non-medical.

Only a handful of states do not allow both religious or philosophical exemptions, including New York, California, Connecticut, Maine, Mississippi and West Virginia.

Exemptions can be from one, multiple or all required childhood vaccines. While rules differ state by state, in most cases, parents must receive documentation from a medical doctor stating a child should be exempt from vaccinations.

The exemptions are then reviewed and granted by the child's school.

However, as the antivax movement has grown, so has the number of people applying for fake exemptions, with some even willing to pay off doctors to make up bogus medical excuses in order to get their child out of having to be vaccinated.

In some states, legislators are cracking down on the shady practice, even proposing legislation to stop fake exemptions.

In 2019, California State Sen. Richard Pan made a case for a proposed bill that would require the state health department to review all medical exemptions and either approve or deny them. The bill also created a database to track which doctors are issuing an unusually high number of exemptions.

The bill passed in September 2019.

And while a change of one or half a percentage point may not seem significant, it translates to thousands of children who could be made vulnerable to deadly diseases, putting herd immunity to these diseases at risk.

Herd immunity is a form of indirect protection that applies to contagious diseases. It's reached when a sufficient percentage of the population has become immune to a disease either from vaccination or previous infection.

A decline in herd immunity can lead to outbreaks of previously eradicated diseases.

Experts have partly attributed the decline of vaccination rates in the US to Covid-19. And while the Covid vaccine is not required for children attending schools in the US, it is believed to be a contributing factor in the rise of vaccine hesitancy.

In the school year following the release of Covid vaccines, more parents were claiming vaccine exemptions: 2.6 percent in 2021-2022, compared to 2.2 percent in 2020-2021.

Americas top infectious disease expert Dr Anthony Fauci admitted that Covid vaccine policies were 'counterproductive' and turned vaccine skeptics off of vaccinations rather than gain their favor.

Earlier this year, Dr Fauci told The New York Times: Man, I think, almost paradoxically, you had people who were on the fence about getting vaccinated thinking, why are they forcing me to do this?

'And that sometimes-beautiful independent streak in our country becomes counterproductive. And you have that smoldering anti-science feeling, a divisiveness thats palpable politically in this country'.
Students returning to two schools in Maine will be barred from drinking from the fountain after high levels of PFAS chemicals were found in their drinking supply.

Hundreds of students at Mill Pond and Hodgdon Middle/High School in Aroostook county, located on the border with Canada, will start the year drinking only bottled water until the filtration installation project for the tap water is completed.

The two schools were the first in the county to test for PFAS over a year ago and found that levels had reached up to 34 parts per trillion, far more than the 20 parts per trillion safe level required by the state.

School administrators had hoped that new carbon treatment systems would have solved the problem by the time classes resumed, but the project is not expected to be completed until late November.

Two schools located in Hodgdon, Maine were ordered last year to keep children and staff from drinking water from water fountains and faucets after it was found that both schools' water PFAS levels far exceeded the state max of 20 parts per trillion

The school system is in the process of installing filtration systems that will eliminate the vast majority of PFAS from water, but it is a pricy endeavor that will not be complete until November at the earliest. Until then, children and staff will rely on bottled water

It's an expensive goal that school superintendent Tyler Putnam said will cost more than the $120,000 grant from the Maine Drinking Water Program.

Mr Putnam said: I know this is kind of an annoyance for people, you understand that this is a process that we have to kind of go through, and it's not an immediate fix but we're so happy that we have a community that's so supportive.

The state told the school district of Hodgdon in December to immediately stop using water at the schools because of dangerously high PFAS levels.

It came amid increased state-orchestrated water testing of schools, water districts, nursing homes and some housing developments

The district then opted to install a carbon treatment system in which activated carbon absorbs organic and synthetic compounds and filters them out.

Mr Putnam added: We are looking at probably late November to switch back to using the water system. We are making sure the water coming in is treated correctly.

The schools switched to bottled water only last year and will continue to be the norm until state testing confirms that the tap water is safe to drink.

The two schools in Maine are far from the only ones, not only in the state but nationwide as well, to have launched efforts to test their water that is believed to be contaminated.

In 2020, the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency began testing 90 percent of the states public water systems that feed into 250 Ohio schools and daycares for the chemicals.

Also in 2020, Massachusetts government officials order the testing of water serving students in two cities, New Salem and Wendell.

After test results showed high levels of certain PFAS chemicals, the school boards in both towns authorized the installation of special filtration systems.

And in Michigan five years ago, the state announced water testing for about 460 schools as well as 1,380 public water systems, a $1.7 million undertaking.

An indigenous school located on the Leech Lake Band Indian Reservation in northcentral Minnesota also launched its own testing absent comprehensive testing carried out by the government. The Bug-O-Nay-Ge-Shig School's drinking water wells were contaminated with PFAS.

Further investigation into the area found that two people who had worked at the school died from cancer, while multiple female employees have thyroid issues.

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are microscopic, man-made chemicals that can take thousands of years to break down in the environment or in the human body, hence the name 'forever chemicals'.

PFAS chemicals lend cookware their nonstick quality and raincoats the ability to repel water. They can also be found in firefighting foam and runoff from factories that seep into the groundwater.

PFAS also often lines food packaging that ends up in landfills where they can leach into the soil and air over time.

The chemicals seep into the water supply through a variety of mechanisms.

Industrial sites and military bases often produce PFAS runoff, as do agricultural sites that use PFAS-laden pesticides as well as sewage treatment plants.

Most of the studies examining a relationship between cancer and PFAS has honed in on one of roughly 12,000 chemicals, PFOA.

For example, a 2020 report published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute found that elevated levels of PFOA in the bloodstream nearly doubled a persons risk of developing renal cell carcinoma, a type of kidney cancer.

A 2011 study published in the journal Environmental Health examined breast cancer rates in Inuit women in Greenland.

The women in the study who had breast cancer also had higher levels of PFOA and another chemical called PFOS in their blood.

They also found that women with breast cancer had higher levels of another group of chemicals called polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs).

Women exposed to the chemicals while pregnant have also been shown to be more likely to give birth to an underweight baby.

And the odds that a pregnant woman in the US will have been exposed to PFAS are high  a CDC report estimated that 97 percent of Americans have PFAS in their blood.
Doctors are raising the alarm over a Chinese-made drug deadlier than fentanyl that is making its way into the US.

Nitazenes, a group of lab-made opioids like fentanyl, are increasingly being mixed into heroin and counterfeit prescription pills sold on the street, and causing deadly overdoses.

They are thought to be about 1,000 times more powerful than morphine, with patients needing at least two doses of naloxone to fight off an overdose compared to the standard one dose for fentanyl.

'Clinicians should be aware of these opioids in the drug supply so they are adequately prepared to care for these patients,' said doctors at Mount Sinai, New York, who issued the warning.

Researchers say nitazenes, also a synthetic opioid, are now being detected in patients brought to hospitals with overdoses

In the small study, published today in JAMA Network Open, researchers checked the lab results of 537 adults admitted to ERs with suspected overdoses between 2020 and 2022.

Of these, they found 11 had only fentanyl in their systems.

But a total of nine  or nearly two percent  tested positive for nitazenes.

Among the fentanyl patients, 36 percent needed more than one dose of naloxone while 27 percent were intubated.

For comparison, for those who had nitazenes in their system, 66 percent needed more than one dose of naloxone and 11 percent had to be intubated.

Among those who received the nitazene Mentonitazene, it was as high as 50 percent.

One patient from both groups died following their overdose, while the rest survived.

Those who received metonitazene were also more likely to suffer cardiac arrest than those who had other substances including fentanyl.

Dr Alex Manini, an emergency medicine expert at Mount Sinai, said: 'Given the alarmingly high cardiac arrest rate for nitazene overdose, this study should energize harm-reduction policies.

'And given the emergence of dangerous toxic drugs in the illicit opioid supply in the United States, future research should examine clinical outcomes from new potent opioids as the supply continues to evolve.'

Nitazenes were developed by researchers around 60 years ago as an alternative to morphine.

But because of their high risk for overdose they were never released.

Types of nitazenes include brorphine, isotonitazene, metonitazene and N-piperidinyl etonitazene.

Last year the Drug Enforcement Agency in Washington D.C. began warning residents over nitazene, saying it had been found mixed into supplies of heroin and fentanyl.

Jarod Forget, the agent behind the warning, said at the time: 'We want to get this info out and warn people.

'If we can educate and inform our communities about the dangers of taking counterfeit prescription pills or other drugs, we stem the proliferation of these deadly opioids, stop all these senseless deaths and help keep our neighbours and loved ones safe.'
Pete Davidson has disclosed that he previously took ketamine to treat his depression

Pete Davidson has disclosed that he previously took ketamine to treat his depression, sparking fresh interest in the former party drug-turned-mental health therapy.

The Food and Drug Administration approved the use of ketamine in 2019 in a very specific form  an inhalable nasal spray  for adults with depression that has not been helped by other medications.

That was a seminal moment. Ketamines reputation as a rave drug that launches users into euphoric out-of-body experiences coupled with uncertainties about how it acts on the brain and its designation as a controlled substance has held clinical research back for decades.

But a growing number of studies and a wave of anecdotal reports have emerged over the past decade that point to ketamines power to provide relief from depression symptoms, at least in the short term, in under an hour.

Thousands of ketamine clinics have cropped up nationwide recently where people with difficult-to-treat depression can undergo intravenous infusions of a refined version of the drug in a cozy environment under the watchful eye of a psychiatrist.

Esketamine is a nasal spray version of a potent form of ketamine and has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration to treat depression that has not been alleviated by other means such as SSRIs

Before entering an in-patient mental health treatment facility earlier this summer, Mr Davidson said he had been receiving ketamine treatments.

He has spoken candidly about his depression stemming from the loss at age seven of his father, a New York City firefighter, who was last seen running into the World Trade Center before it toppled into ruins.

The comedian said in 2020: 'I'm always depressed, all the time. I have to constantly bring myself out of it.

'I wake up depressed, but now I know my steps. I have to go outside and be in the sun for a little bit, or go for a walk. It's all just programming yourself to trick your brain.

He was using the FDA -approved spray called esketamine, marketed as Spravato.

It is more potent than the anesthetic that partygoers know and love, but when administered in the presence of a medical professional, it has been shown to be safe overall.

After the patient receives the infusion, a medical professional monitors them for about two hours in the office until possible side effects such as vertigo, euphoria, and dizziness subside on their own.

Its approval in 2019 marked a major win for psychiatry, a field that has struggled to develop new and effective treatments for severe depression due to a combination of insufficient research funding, the lengthy trial and error process that is part of any clinical study into depression medicines, and an overall lack of innovation.

Not just anyone can receive a ketamine treatment, according to New York-based psychiatrist Dr Jeff Ditzell, who administers ketamine treatments. There is a lengthy screening process that considers the person's psychiatric history before determining if they qualify

In a treatment room at Ditzell's clinic, patients spend an hour outfitted with a sleeping mask while listening to theta brain waves, which are at the dominant frequency in healing, high creative states, and remembering emotional experiences. Patients report feeling 'stoned' with many saying they've had out of body experiences

Many of the leading depression treatments work similarly in that they target the same neurotransmitters, serotonin and neuropinephrine.

These medications are collectively known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs).

While there have been some formulation changes of these medications, they have overall remained stagnant, frustrating mental health professionals and the roughly 21 million Americans living with major depression.

The debut of nasal spray ketamine aimed to help fill the gap in innovation hampered by years of failed clinical trials.

Ketamine counters depression symptoms in an entirely different way. While conventional treatments increase levels of naturally occurring chemicals like serotonin, ketamine increases levels of a glutamate, a neurotransmitter crucial to mood regulation, learning, memory, and information processing.

Research into controlled substances as legitimate medical interventions in rapidly unfolding, prompting greater interest in the applications of ketamine as well as MDMA, or ecstasy, and psilocybin, the psychoactive chemical in magic mushrooms.

Findings from a recent study conducted by researchers at Mass General Brigham Hospital in Boston suggested that ketamine infusions worked just as well at treating peoples major depression as the gold standard electroconvulsive therapy (ECT).

The study, published in the New England Journal of Medicine, enrolled 403 people aged 45 years old who had treatment-resistant depression. The group was split in half, with one half receiving ECT three times per week while the rest were administered ketamine via an IV drip twice a week over a three-week period.

Results showed both treatments prompted an easing of depression and an improvement in quality of life. And while ECT came with several adverse effects such as memory loss and muscle problems, ketamine recipients reported only one side effect  an out-of-body experience at the time of the treatment.

Research into the long-term effects of using ketamine as a depression treatment is still unfolding. But many depression sufferers have sung its praises, including 52-year-old Niki from Canada credited ketamine treatments with saving her life.

Niki suffered from treatment-resistant depression as well as siezures, which doctors blamed on anxiety and said nothing could help her. At one point she was taking 11 pills every day, including anti-anxiety pills and antidepressants, a mood stabilizer, and a muscle relaxant. Rather than helping her, Niki said she felt like a zombie.

But after meeting with a doctor for a ketamine session in which she took a ketamine pill followed by an intranasal dose of more ketamine, Niki said the stress weighing on her shoulders dissipated, adding: I was so comfortable, and I felt safe.'

After just a month of weekly sessions, she was able to go back to her job full-time.

Ten months later, she is now down to using just one pill as a maintenance dose once every two months.

Her story is not an isolated incident. Researchers at MindPeace Clinics, a ketamine therapy clinic in Arlington, Virginia - just outside of Washington D.C., found that more than 70 percent of patients who used the drug over the span of a year had improvements to their mood, with 40 percent reporting no symptoms of depression after 10 routine infusions of the drug.
Owners up and down the land will tell you that a house is not a home without a dog. But the cost of keeping our best friends in the comfort to which they are accustomed is soaring.

Owning a mutt now costs an extra 256 a year  bringing the figure up to 2,500  analysis by Money Mail of data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) and charity Battersea Dogs & Cats Home finds.

This means families can expect to pay as much as 27,800 over the average lifetime of their pooch, with price rises over the past 12 months adding 2,867 to the overall cost of upkeep.

The cost of pet care has increased by 12.8 per cent overall in the past year, according to the ONS.

Dogs are often treated as another member of the family, with money spent on fresh food, regular grooming and the best medical treatment.

Expensive: Sonali Saujani with her French bulldog Luna who costs 1,740 a year to insure

But with households already squeezed, rising numbers of the UKs 17 million dog owners are struggling.

New figures from the charity Dogs Trust today reveal four in five people are financially worried about looking after their dog. And almost one in ten say they are very worried.

But how much you spend will depend on the size and breed of your dog. Some families will spend more than 39,078 during the pets lifetime, Battersea Dogs & Cats Home reports.

Expensive grooming treatments, dog walking services, treats and kennels for when you are on holiday can easily add on extra costs.

According to a survey by ferry operator Red Funnel, one in eight owners spend more than 500 a year just on dog sitting services.

One-off expenses in the first year, such as vaccinations, a collar and lead, toys and a bed add another 755.

In comparison, the price of basic needs for a child has increased by 3.6 per cent in the past 12 months.

It now costs 3,864 a year to cover the essentials for a child from birth until the age of 18, according to the charity Child Poverty Action Group.

Meanwhile, a basic standard of living in retirement costs 829, on average, a month  and that includes all housing, food, transport and leisure costs, according to the Pension and Lifetime Savings Association. This sum has increased by 19 per cent in just a year.

Doggy Salon

Over the course of their lifetime, a dog will rack up 7,800 on average in grooming fees, including trims, washes and nail cutting, according to Battersea Dogs & Cats Home.

Pet care costs have soared 12.8 per cent, official data shows. This has added 54 a year to the bill at the doggy salon.

Prices vary depending on the location and breed of dog. For example, Tunbridge Wells Grooming Centre in Kent charges 36 to 102 for full grooming, with bath and blow drying services.

Extra costs: Expensive grooming treatments, dog walking services, treats and kennels for when you are on holiday can easily add up

At luxury salon London Dog Grooming Company in the upmarket department store Liberty, clients can expect to pay up to 150 for a full groom.

Polly Arrowsmith, 56, from Islington, North London, spends more on haircuts for her poodle Hattie each year than for her own.

The marketing director forks out up to 55 a month on a trim, blow dry and fur washing for her beloved pet, which she bought almost 12 years ago. However, Polly, spends only 80 a year on her hair.

Poodles need more grooming than other dogs as their hair can become matted and tangled. Weve tried to groom her ourselves, but she gets upset and sometimes tries to bite, she says.

In total Polly spends around 417 a month on Hattie, including 240 on doggy daycare and 65 on insurance.

Since the pandemic there are more puppies, which means costs have gone up. Ive had to make cutbacks to afford Hattie, such as getting my hair cut less frequently or buying fewer luxuries or going out less, Polly adds.

Although shes expensive I wont compromise on things for Hattie.

Four ways to bite back Buy food in bulk. At Pets at home, a 2kg bag of Complete Nutrition Dry Puppy Food costs 3.89, equivalent to around 1.95 per kg. But buying a 15kg bag for 18.89 reduces the cost per kilogram to 1.26, saving you 10.35. Shop around for insurance. It can save you thousands if your dog is ill, but do your reseach before buying. For example, it costs 197.21 a year to insure a five-year-old Labrador with Puffin insurance, but 292.68 to insure the same dog with Argos, according to Comparethemarket. Check if your pet is eligible for subsidised care. Charities such as the RSPCA, Blue Cross and PDSA subsidise vet bills for owners who receive certain benefits and live within their catchment areas. Buy medication online  from websites such as petdrugsonline.co.uk or petremedies.co.uk for a fraction of the price youd pay at the vet. Make sure you buy from a reputable company.

Vet fees

Pet insurance is the most expensive cost, with bills as high as 720 a year, according to Battersea Dogs & Cats Home.

Maximum benefit insurance (covers injury or illness up to a specified pre-set limit) cost an average 144 a year in 2023, according to price comparison site Comparethemarket.

However, the price can be much higher for older dogs, with some owners spending at least 120 a month on pets with a history of problems.

Health cover: Pet insurance is the most expensive cost, with bills as high as 720 a year, according to Battersea Dogs & Cats Home.

Anna McEntee, director of insurance at Comparethemarket, says: Older dogs are typically more expensive to insure as they tend to need more medical care.

With the cost of vet treatments and procedures on the rise, its possible some pet owners, particularly those with older pets, could see their renewal increase.

On average, the cost of medical treatment has soared by 13 per cent in the past year, the ONS reports. This would add 41 to household bills, Money Mail analysis reveals.

Sonali Saujani, 35, has been forced to make cutbacks in order to be able to afford her beloved five-year-old dog, Luna. The holistic healer, from Offenham, Worcestershire, now spends 1,740 a year insuring Luna  564 more than four years ago.

Luna is my biggest expense. French bulldogs are notorious for health issues. Lunas breathing problems, skin condition and allergies make her more expensive to insure than other breeds, says Sonali.

I probably spend about 500 a month on Luna, which includes her daycare, supplements and physiotherapy.

But Id rather sacrifice clothes or very expensive holidays in order to pay for her.

Lifetime cost: Families can expect to pay as much as 27,800 over the lifetime of their pooch, with price rises over the last 12 months adding 2,867 to the overall cost

Food & snacks

The average cost of dog food has risen by 21 per cent in the past year, adding 76 to annual household bills, according to the ONS. Meanwhile, the price of dog treats has risen by 16 per cent year on year, it suggests.

But in the most extreme cases, costs have risen by almost 58 per cent in the past year, according to The Grocer magazine. Food and treats can easily add up to 960 a year, according to Battersea Dogs & Cats Home.

As costs rise, more families are opting for own-brand food for their dogs, according to supplier Pets at Home.

Our own-label products are considerably cheaper than equivalent branded goods, and weve seen them grow in popularity as discretionary spending has come under pressure, a spokesman tells Money Mail.

a.cooke@dailymail.co.uk
A struggling Swiss fund managers entire board plans to resign after a takeover bid by UK rival Liontrust collapsed under pressure from a rebel investor group.

Ailing GAM said that the activist group  which includes Rock Investment and wealth manager Bruellan and are headed by French telecoms billionaire Xavier Niel  will propose new board directors at an emergency general meeting in September.

Shareholders rejected the Liontrust deal last week, with just 33.5 per cent voting in favour.

The group led by Niel had criticised the offer, saying it undervalued GAM and did not recognise the value a turnaround could generate for shareholders.

GAM has faced a tumultuous few years after its involvement in a scandal at collapsed lender Greensill Capital in 2018.

French telecoms billionaire Xavier Niel (pictured) - is leading a rebel investor group which is set to propose new GAM board directors at an emergency general meeting in September

This led to a multi-million-pound fine and the exit of former star manager Tim Haywood and chief executive Alexander Friedman.

GAM had insisted that the success of the Liontrust offer was essential to continue as a going concern as it urged shareholders to support the proposals.

All of GAMs board members are planning to quit when the new directors are elected at the end of next month.

It said the existing board recommends that shareholders approve the election of the proposed directors.

Following the failure of the takeover deal, GAM will have to repay a 8.9million loan, plus interest, to Liontrust within 30 days.
Bunzl boss Frank van Zanten (pictured) said the FTSE 100 company had no current plans to move its main listing to Wall Street

Britain must create the right environment for international business if it is to avoid more firms switching to the US stock market, the boss of Bunzl warned.

Frank van Zanten said the FTSE 100 distribution and outsourcing giant had no current plans to follow the likes of chip designer Arm or building materials firm CRH in moving its main listing to Wall Street.

But van Zanten, 56, said the 9billion-valued company  which supplies everything from safety gloves and toilet roll to face masks and coffee cups  was watching developments closely.

He told the Daily Mail: Currently, its not on the boards agenda but obviously we want to make sure we do the right thing for all our stakeholders including our shareholders.

So nothing planned  but were monitoring closely whats happening. What is important is the Government and other bodies need to make sure that the climate in the UK is such that its the right environment to be in for international business.

Van Zanten said that meant supporting growth, supporting the right things for business, [being] a business-friendly environment.

But he would not be drawn further on what he meant by that and whether it included tax cuts, adding: Im not a politician.

Van Zanten made the comments as Bunzl reported a rise in first-half profits to 438million as sales climbed to 5.9billion and lifted its guidance for the full year.

That cheered investors, lifting shares by 3.1 per cent, or 84p, to 2808p.

Van Zantens remarks come at a time of soul searching in the City and Whitehall about the decisions by the likes of Arm  which recently formally announced its plans for a New York float  to shun the London Stock Exchange.

As part of efforts to stop the rot, regulators have shaken up listing rules.

Reforms designed to unlock more UK capital to invest in companies are also in train.

Yesterday, David Schwimmer, boss of the London Stock Exchange Group, played down fears of the London markets demise.

He told the Evening Standard: The City has a way of reinventing itself. It has done so over hundreds of years.

Bunzl, which makes 60 per cent of its revenues in North America, has expanded through a series of acquisitions, most recently in Poland, and now operates in 32 countries.
Pfizer has refused to tell a Senate hearing how many of its employees left the company rather than take a specially-imported batch of Covid vaccine for the company's Australian staff.

Pfizer told a Senate hearing earlier this month it mandated Covid shots for its Australian staff, which caused 'a small number' to leave the company.

The drug giant has also refused to reveal how many employees were granted exemptions from taking the Comirnaty mRNA vaccine for medical or religious reasons.

In at times testy Senate hearings on August 3, Pfizer's regional medical director Dr Krishan Thiru and head of regulatory sciences Dr Brian Hewitt were grilled by senators over the Covid vaccine rollout.

One Nation Senator Malcolm Roberts asked the pair whether Pfizer mandated the vaccine for its employees.

'At the height of the pandemic and consistent with guidance from health authorities from the New South Wales and Victorian governments, Pfizer did have a colleague vaccination program for its employees,' Dr Thiru said.

After being asked if it was still in place, Dr Thiru confirmed that it was.

Pfizer Australia and New Zealand's Country Medical Director Krishan Thiru (right) and Head of Regulatory Affairs Brian Hewitt (left) fronted the August 3 hearing for the pharma company

READ MORE: One of Australia's last Covid rules may be scrapped Advertisement

'We introduced a colleague vaccination program in the interests of protecting the health and safety of our colleagues and the communities in which we operate,' he said.

Senator Roberts pressed the Pfizer representatives on whether they enforced the mandated shots.

'Senator, we aligned with the public health guidance,' Dr Thiru said.

'We permitted accommodations or exemptions for people who had specific medical or religious reasons that they did not or could not be vaccinated. A small number of colleagues departed the company.'

Pfizer's admission that it mandated vaccines for its staff followed a heated confrontation between One Nation leader Pauline Hanson and Dr Hewitt, who had insisted that no one 'was forced to take the vaccine in Australia'.

'You were in Australia during Covid-19?' a disbelieving Senator Hanson asked him.

'You must've been fully aware that people - nurses, doctors - people to have their jobs, to keep their jobs, were forced to have the vaccination.'

'Now, do you retract your statement that they were not forced?'

Dr Hewitt rejected the claim once again, saying he 'firmly believed... nobody was forced' to take the Covid vaccine despite his own company's mandate.

'Mandates or vaccine requirements are determined by governments and health authorities,' he added.

Pfizer would not reveal how many of its Australian employees left the company rather than take the Covid vaccine (Pictured: File photo of an Adelaide nurse having a shot)

Around 255 million vaccine doses were imported into Australia up until June last year but less than a quarter were administered in the country (Pictured: File photo of a drive-through vaccination in Sydney)

'I believe everybody was offered an opportunity to get a vaccine or not get a vaccine.'

Senator Hanson fired back, telling the Pfizer representative: 'A lot of Australians will disagree with you on that one.'

The conservative firebrand was highly critical of the pharmaceutical representatives following the hearing.

'Their answers were pathetic,' she told Daily Mail Australia.

'They evaded the questions and they didn't want to be there. They were rude and arrogant.'

Senator Hanson said she had 'pushed' for the Senate inquiry, which she claimed Pfizer and Moderna had initially 'refused' to attend.

Representatives from Covid vaccine maker Moderna also fronted the Senate's Education and Employment Legislation Committee hearing, which was initiated by a bill proposed by Senator Hanson.

In follow up questions to Pfizer, Daily Mail Australia asked the company how many staff quit rather than have the jab.

However, a company spokesperson said they were 'unable to share any further details' on how many staff members refused the vaccine or how many were given exemptions for medical or religious reasons.

In a statement, Pfizer told Daily Mail Australia 'we deeply care for the wellbeing and health of all our employees'.

'During the public health crisis, Pfizer has followed all health guidelines instituted by the governments of NSW and Victoria on employee vaccination,' the company said.

Despite Pfizer's claim it 'aligned' with Australian public guidelines, there were no grounds for exemption because of religious reasons in the Commonwealth's Public Health Order.

The Order stated that vaccination against Covid could not be refused on 'ideological, religious or other grounds'.

The US-based multinational confirmed the vaccine it gave about 1,000 employees in Australia was imported directly from Belgium, a move the company made in order to avoid diminishing the stockpile of vaccines for the general public.

This was despite the fact that out of the 255 million Covid vaccine doses imported by Pfizer and other manufacturers by July 2022, just 60 million - less than a quarter - were administered to Australians with 40 million donated overseas.

Pfizer said although Australian medical watchdog the TGA did not test the vaccines that were used on its staff the specially earmarked batch was authorised because it was certified to European standards which are equivalent to Australian ones.
The father of a student who took his own life after buying poison from a Canadian chef online has warned there are four others still selling the same killer substance.

David Parfett's son Tom died after taking the product bought from a website run by Kenneth Law, 57.

He had found out about the poison after visiting another forum, which is also still live, and advertises ways to commit suicide.

Law appeared in court last week in Canada charged twice with selling the lethal substances and UK National Crime Agency is currently investigating his links to 88 deaths.

But while the NCA investigation has been welcomed by Mr Parfett - whose son is among the 88 in the probe - has warned at least four other people are still selling the poison on the web.

Speaking to MailOnline, Mr Parfett said: 'There are at least four other Kenneth Law type figures still operating. One is in Mexico and the other in the Ukraine or Russia area.

David Parfett's son Tom died after taking the product bought from a website run by Kenneth Law, 57. He told MailOnline there were still other individuals online selling the killer substance

Student Tom, from Maidenhead in Berkshire, took his own life aged 22 after buying the poison from Kenneth Law's company

'We need actions taken to save lives now. People are dying today because the site my son went on and other suppliers are still there.

'There are still people active online selling this same substance.

Timeline of identified UK deaths linked to Kenneth Law's 'poison by post' June 10, 2021: Tom Windsor, 29 October 13, 2012: Michael Dunham, 38 October 28, 2021: Tom Parfett, 22 April 8, 2022: Neha Raju, 23 July 3, 2022: Gary Cooper, 41 January 1, 2023: Imogen Nunn, 25 Advertisement

'There are other suppliers that are doing exactly the same thing.

'They are perhaps not as arrogant as he was, but they are on the same site and sell the same goods.'

The forum - while MailOnline has chosen not to identify - is still online and offering the same advice on how end lives.

It popularised the method using the poison and has provided a sequence of steps for people to follow who decide to take it.

The substance used was discovered by that forum, but is expected to become subject to stricter controls as its lethal nature has become apparent.

Student Tom, from Maidenhead in Berkshire, took his own life aged 22 after buying it from Law's company.

He had found him through the same forum, where he had been told the method he should follow.

On October 28, 2021, he checked into a Premier Inn in Sunbury-on-Thames, Surrey, where he was found dead by a member of staff after following the online suggestions.

His father hopes more will be done to stop similar case, but warns there are other figures still essentially selling death to the vulnerable.

Mr Parfett added: 'This is a community that deliberately found this poison.

'They know that it's going to become regulated to make it impossible to get in the quantities needed.

'So they are basically just concocting and searching for the next one.

Law appeared in court last week in Canada charged twice with selling the lethal substances and UK National Crime Agency is currently investigating his links to 88 deaths

Member of the Territorial Army Gary Cooper was found dead in his bedroom in Kendal by his father on July 3, 2022

Imogen Nunn, 25  known as Deaf Immy on the social media platform where she raised hearing and mental health issues  died in January after being sent the poison by Law

'If nothing is done, sooner enough they are going to find it.'

MailOnline reported last week how 88 UK suicides were now formally linked Law.

A list gathered by the International Criminal Police Organisation (more commonly known as Interpol) containing details of his 232 British customers was handed to the NCA - dubbed Britain's FBI - who went on to establish how many had died.

Music fan Tom Windsor, 29, is believed to be the first occurring death among the 88 being studied by the NCA.

Mr Windsor had ordered the poison from Law's website and it had arrived by post at his flat, where he took it on June 10, 2021.

Member of the Territorial Army Gary Cooper was also found dead in his bedroom in Kendal by his father on July 3, 2022, after taking the substance.

Then on January 1 this year deaf British TikTok star Imogen Nunn, 25, took her own life after being sent a 'suicide kit' by Law.

Ms Nunn - known as Deaf Immy on the social media platform - earned money through endorsement deals with companies who provide support within the deaf community.

She found Law's online business last year and it posted her the substance. The website has since been taken down.

Her parents Ray and Louise Nunn, of Bognor Regis, were devastated to be told by police, five months after her death on New Year's Day, that a stranger may have helped her take her own life.

For confidential support call the Samaritans on 116123 or go to samaritans.org
For decades, the the adventures of a ginger feline and his rodent friends in the fictional town of Wortlethorpe caught the imagination of millions of British children.

Published between 1970 and the year 2000, Graham Oakley's Church Mice book series was a huge hit with young readers and their parents.

Now, you can get your hands on some of the original illustrations as more than 750 works by the artist, who died last December aged 93, are set to fetch up to 100,000 at auction.

Mr Oakley's books featured a cat called Sampson who was taught not to kill mice, and so they instead became his friends and allies.

Holed up in Wortlethorpe's church, the animals had many adventures under titles including The Church Mice in Action and the Church Mice Spread Their Wings.

More than 750 illustrations by the author of the Church Mice book series are set to fetch up to 100,000 at auction. Above: Sampson the cat seen with rioting church mice in one of the drawings

Published between 1970 and the year 2000, Graham Oakley's Church Mice book series was a huge hit with young readers and their parents. Above: Sampson with mice on a makeshift raft

The warm-hearted works were widely praised for their richly detailed illustrations and their witty ironic humour, with the books appealing to children and adults alike.

Mr Oakley died aged 93 in Dorchester, Dorset, and left his studio archive to benefit the charity Save the Children in his will.

As well as his drawings, the sale includes his personal paint box and art supplies. They are being sold via Charterhouse Auctioneers, of Sherborne in Dorset.

His collection of drawings, book cover illustrations and even his personal paint box and art supplies are now going under the hammer at Charterhouse Auctioneers.

There are more than 750 lots of original artwork that will be sold without reserve, with many of the Church Mice illustrations expected to sell for about 200 each.

Some of the watercolours are his original works for the front cover of books including The Church Mice in Action, The Church Mice at Bay and the Church Cat Abroad.

Graham Oakley died last December at the age of 93. The first book in his series, simply titled The Church Mouse, was published in 1972

The warm-hearted works were widely praised for their richly detailed illustrations and their witty ironic humour, with the books appealing to children and adults alike

Sampson the cat is seen with his mice friends and an angry-looking vicar in the church where they live

Sampson the cat - dressed as a pirate - is seen with two mice in another illustration

Mr Oakley went to art school but his studies were interrupted when he was called up for national service in 1947. Above: Another of his illustrations

Richard Bromell, of Charterhouse, said: 'Graham sadly passed away in Dorchester last year.

'He is perhaps most famous for his positively charming Church Mice book series and in his will he generously left his studio archive to benefit Save the Children.

'He had them all in blue box files labelled with which book they were from in his spare bedroom, which he turned into a studio.

'The illustrations are all very charming. They are bright and colourful, very detailed and beautifully drawn and executed.

'His stories had wonderful morals - Sampson the cat was taught not to kill mice so he protected them and ended up with quite a big extended family.

'For those that remember the books, these drawings put a smile on their face and take them back to their childhood memories.'

Mr Oakley went to art school but his studies were interrupted when he was called up for national service in 1947.

Sampson the cat with his troope of mice is confronted by an angry woman in another of Mr Oakley's illustrations

Sampson the cat watches on as the church mice lap up a bowl of milk

Sampson the cat is seen watching television with his rodent companions in another of Mr Oakley's illustrations

Sampson battles another cat as his rodent friends look on

By 1977 the books were doing well enough for Mr Oakley to leave the BBC and focus on being an author

He went on to work as a set designer, first at a London theatre, then the Royal Opera House and finally the BBC.

The first book in his series, simply titled The Church Mouse, was published in 1972.

It was the start of the friendship between Sampson and Arthur, the main church mouse.

Mr Oakley was persuaded to carry on writing about the adventures of the two animals and their friends in the church and brought out several more in the 1970s.

By 1977 the books were doing well enough for Mr Oakley to leave the BBC and focus on being an author.

Several of the books were even nominated for and sometimes won major literary awards.

The Church Mice Adrift was a New York Times Best Illustrated Children's Book of the Year and was nominated for a Kate Greenaway Medal in 1977.

He produced other books too and there are illustrations from those in the sale, such as the Foxbury Force, about a team of fox detectives in the 1990s.

The collection will be sold in Sherborne on September 27.
Shocking emails reveal Hunter Biden helped coordinate a plan with Democrat strategists to 'close down any cases' against the owner of allegedly corrupt Ukrainian gas firm Burisma and 'gain intelligence' on the country's top prosecutor's office.

The emails bolster claims by ex-Ukrainian Prosecutor General Viktor Shokin that the First Son and his then-Vice President dad conspired to kill Shokin's criminal investigation of Burisma.

Last weekend Fox News broadcast an interview with Shokin, where he repeated his previous allegations that Joe Biden got him fired over his Burisma probe.

Emails obtained by DailyMail.com from Hunter's abandoned laptop lay bare how the First Son was involved in Burisma's attempts to thwart law enforcement looking into its alleged corruption.

On May 12, 2014, the day before Hunter's $1million-per-year appointment to Burisma's board was publicly announced, executive Vadym Pozharskyi emailed the then-VP's son from his personal Gmail account, warning that the firm's owner Mykola Zlochevsky was likely under criminal investigation in Ukraine.

Emails obtained by DailyMail.com show Hunter Biden helped devise a plan to shut down an investigation into Burisma founder Mykola Zlochevsky (right) in 2014

The revelations come after ex-Ukrainian Prosecutor General Viktor Shokin publicly claimed that Hunter and then Vice President Joe Biden had him fired over his probe

'We urgently need your advice on how you could use your influence to convey a message / signal, etc to stop what we consider to be politically motivated actions,' Pozharskyi wrote.

The Burisma executive said the company was the victim of blackmail.

'In case we don't cooperate i.e. provide money in cash the gas production business of [Zlochevsky] would be stopped,' he wrote.

'After unsuccessful attempts to receive funds from our side, they proceeded with concrete actions.'

But at the time Zlochevsky was the subject of a legitimate money laundering investigation by the FBI and British intelligence services, for allegedly awarding his own companies lucrative gas contracts while he served as Ukraine's environment minister and squirreling away $23million abroad.

Hunter got a partner at his then-law firm, Boies, Schiller, & Flexner, to devise a response for Burisma and also pitched in with advice on gaining 'intelligence' on new staff at the Prosecutor General's office using investigative agency Nardello & Co.

Vadym Pozharskyi, director of Ukrainian energy firm Burisma, contacted Hunter and his business partners about the plan to publish a piece to benefit their projects

'It would be helpful to gain intelligence on who is leading the restructuring the individuals being considered for those posts,' he wrote.

'Agreed  that is part of what their human intel sources are seeking to learn,' the Boies partner, Heather King, replied.

A senior US diplomat in Ukraine, George Kent, testified to Congress that a deputy in the Ukrainian prosecutor's office told him Zlochevsky ended up paying a $7million bribe to Ukrainian justice officials in December 2014 to sabotage the US-UK probe.

There is no evidence on Hunter's laptop that the First Son was involved in such an alleged bribe.

But when Shokin took over as the new Prosecutor General in 2015, Burisma faced fresh scrutiny, and again turned to Hunter for help.

Shokin had launched new investigations into the gas firm, took legal action against one of his staff for the alleged sabotage of Zlochevsky's $23million money laundering case, and even got a court to temporarily freeze the Ukrainian oligarch's assets.

In his initial email to Hunter and his partner Devon Archer on May 12, 2014, Pozharskyi claimed Burisma was a victim of blackmail

Pozharskyi 'urgently' requested advice on how Hunter and business partner Devon Archer could use their 'influence to convey a message', emails reveal

An email dated June 19, 2014 shows Hunter enlisted the help of a partner at his then-law firm Boies, Schiller, & Flexner, who got in touch with Pozharskyi, and also chimed in to say 'it would be helpful to gain intelligence' on Ukraine's General Prosecutor's Office

Hunter hooked Burisma up with Washington DC consultancy Blue Star Strategies, run by former Clinton administration officials, and Pozharsky spelt out their role in a November 2, 2015 email.

He wrote the 'ultimate purpose' of their work was 'to close down for any cases/pursuits against [Zlochevsky] in Ukraine.'

Pozharsky was unimpressed that Blue Star's written proposal for the job didn't include a promise to lobby top American diplomats  which would have required the firm to register with the US Justice Department as a foreign agent.

But Hunter and his partners indicated that the firm just didn't want to put it in writing.

'I would tell Vadym that this is definitely done deliberately to be on the safe and cautious side and that Sally [Painter, Blue Star COO] and company understand the scope and deliverables,' Hunter's business partner Eric Schwerin wrote privately to Hunter.

Pozharsky wrote: 'If you and Devon [Archer, Hunter's friend and fellow board member] feel comfortable that they will deliver what in real terms we are talking about, we should disregard the wording of the scope and move further with signing and starting actual work.'

'Devon and I do feel comfortable with BS [Blue Star] and the ability of Sally & Karen [Tramontano, CEO] to deliver,' Hunter replied on November 5, 2015.

The ex-Clinton staffers were hired and set about lobbying State Department officials on Burisma's behalf.

They were later investigated by federal law enforcement for failing to file under the Foreign Agents Registration Act, and belatedly lodged paperwork in 2021 to avoid prosecution.

Pozharskyi replied thanking Hunter, Archer, and lawyers for 'sharing information' regarding the restructuring of the General Prosecutor's office

Investigators are looking into whether Hunter's foreign business deals point to shady dealing or possible criminality by the President's son, and potentially corrupt links with Joe

Speaking to Fox News on Sunday, Former Ukraine chief prosecutor Viktor Shokin, 70, said he was fired for investigating Burisma, the Ukrainian natural gas company where Hunter Biden served on the board, and that the then-vice president influenced his ouster in 2016

According to Congressional testimony by Archer, Hunter also allegedly called his Vice President father to help deal with the Ukraine prosecutor's investigation at Zlochevsky's behest after a board meeting at the Four Seasons in Dubai around December 4 2015.

'I think they were getting pressure and they requested Hunter help them with some of that pressure,' Archer said.

'The request is like, 'Can DC help?' he added. 'There weren't specific, you know, 'Can the Big Guy help?' It was always this amorphous, 'Can we get help in DC?'

Archer said Pozharskyi told him Hunter 'called his dad'  though clarified the word the Burisma executive used was 'DC'.

'I just know that there was a call that happened there and I was not privy to it,' he said.

Three days later then-VP Joe visited Kiev and met with President Petro Poroshenko, part of his role in leading relations with Ukraine for the Obama White House.

His National Security Adviser Colin Kahl told the Washington Post that behind the scenes, Biden threatened to withhold $1billion in US aid to Ukraine if Shokin was not fired, among other reforms.

The next day, December 8 2015, Joe gave a speech to the Ukrainian parliament, noting 'the Office of the General Prosecutor desperately needs reform.'

In the eight days before Shokin's eventual sacking in March 2016, Biden phoned Ukrainian president Petro Poroshenko four times to hammer home the $1 billion threat, Biden's former aides told the LA Times in 2019.

Shokin claims Joe ensured his firing not to tackle corruption, but to aid Burisma for Hunter.

'Poroshenko fired me at the insistence of the then-Vice President Biden because I was investigating Burisma,' he told Fox.

Democrats have long dismissed his claims as a 'conspiracy theory' without basis, pointing to international support for replacing Shokin at the time.

Hunter hooked Burisma up with Washington DC consultancy Blue Star Strategies and Pozharsky spelt out their role in a November 2, 2015 email saying the 'ultimate purpose' of their work was 'to close down for any cases/pursuits against [Zlochevsky] in Ukraine'

But documents published this month show top White House and State Department officials were 'impressed' with Shokin's office's work as late as January 2016

There were public protests in Kiev calling for the prosecutor's resignation over his alleged failure to prosecute corrupt officials and abuses of the previous regime of President Viktor Yanukovych.

And in July 2015 Shokin's deputy David Sakvarelidze found two of Shokin's close allies and staffers of the prosecutor's office in an apartment with bags of $400,000 cash, 65 diamonds, a Kalashnikov rifle and Shokin's travel documents.

Sakvarelidze's probe was shelved and he was pushed out of his job, according to a 2019 report by the Independent.

But documents published this month show top White House and State Department officials were 'impressed' with Shokin's office's work as late as January 2016, while bureaucrats deemed the Ukrainian government made 'sufficient progress' to warrant their $1 billion loan in October 2015, shortly before Biden threatened to withhold the cash.

On June 11, 2015, top State Department official Victoria Nuland replied to a letter from Shokin on then-Secretary of State John Kerry's behalf, saying the department had 'been impressed with the ambitious reform and anti-corruption agenda of your government.'

'The ongoing reform of your office, law enforcement, and the judiciary will enable you to investigate and prosecute corruption and other crimes in an effective, fair, and transparent manner,' Nuland wrote.

A task force of State, Justice and Treasury officials reviewing the proposed $1billion loan to Ukraine concluded in October 2015 that 'Ukraine has made sufficient progress on its reform agenda to justify a third guarantee', according to documents obtained under the Freedom of Information Act by website Just the News.

The review did not tie the loan to the dismissal of Shokin, despite Joe's later push for his firing.

And National Security Council staffer Eric Ciaramella wrote in a January 21, 2016 email his team were 'super impressed' with staff from Shokin's office after a two-hour meeting with them.
France's Education Minister made headlines around the world when he announced that the abaya, a robe worn by Muslim women and girls, would be banned in French state schools.

Gabriel Attal - a long-time supporter and friend of Emmanuel Macron - said the policy will come into effect at the start of the new school year.

The loose-fitting long robe is considered too closely linked with Islam, the education secretary said at a press conference in Paris, sparking fury from Muslim leaders and critics.

Aged just 34, Attal is the youngest Education Minister in France's modern history, and is widely considered a rising star in French politics.

Having been promoted into his post just a month before announcing the abaya ban, Attal quickly made his mark on France's education system and courted controversy.

France's Education Minister made headlines around the world when he announced the abaya would be banned in state schools

Abayas are considered too closely linked with Islam, the education secretary said at a press conference in Paris

France has a strict ban on religious signs in state schools and government buildings, because they violate laws on secularism.

The latest policy comes after France banned the wearing of full-face veils in public in 2010, provoking anger among Muslims about so-called 'Burqa Ban'.

Announcing the ban, which will come into force on September 4, Attal said: 'When you walk into a classroom, you shouldn't be able to identify the pupils' religion just by looking at them.

'I have decided that the abaya can no longer be worn in schools.'

Attal has caught the attention of the world's media, having spent most of his adult life in politics.

He was one of the first to publicly back Macron when he decided to run for president in 2017 and became an MP soon after.

He quickly rose up the ranks, becoming a junior minister and taking up the role of government spokesperson during the Covid pandemic.

Attal was one of the first to publicly back Macron when he decided to run for president in 2017. Pictured: Macron and Attal while he was still a junior minister in 2019

Attal has caught the attention of the world's media, having spent most of his adult life in politics

His own education and upbringing in Paris attracted attention when he was made education secretary, overseeing France's public schools as someone who attended private school.

'Yes, I went to private school,' he told reporters last month. 'I don't have to deny or apologise for this choice my parents made at the time.

'I do not believe that the fight is to criticize those who make this choice The fight is to guarantee that the whole school can provide all parents with the essentials of what they expect for children.'

When appointed a junior minister in 2018, Attal became the youngest minister in the history of the Fifth Republic.

The media savvy politician has been effective at using Instagram and other platforms to promote his image, regularly taking selfies with the youngsters his policies effect

He is also one half of a French political power couple, being in a civil union with Stephane Sejourne, a member of the European Parliament for La Republique En Marche!.

Attal was outed as gay by his former high school classmate and enemy, lawyer Juan Branco, in 2018.

'He wrote that I was relieved when my father died, because according to him I could live my homosexuality more openly,' Attal told the newspaper Liberation.

Attal's father, who died of cancer, was a Jewish movie producer and his mother is an Orthodox Christian.

He has been the subject of both homophobic and antisemitic abuse from trolls, previously admitting he gets 'bucketloads of vomit' from haters online.

But the media savvy politician has been effective at using Instagram and other platforms to promote his image, regularly taking selfies with the youngsters his policies effect and sharing snaps from his frequent meet and greets.
The Gold Star father of a Marine killed in the Kabul suicide blast claims the only recognition of his son's death he has received from the White House is a 'Xeroxed copy' of a condolence letter.

Darin Hoover's 31-year-old son Taylor was one of 13 U.S. service members killed by the explosion while helping evacuate thousands of Americans and allies from Hamid Karzai International Airport.

Hoover and his family refused to meet the president at the dignified transfer of their son's body at Dover, Delaware.

The president has not tried to contact them since, he said.

'The only thing we've gotten from the administration, from the White House from anybody else was a Xeroxed copy and stamp signature from Biden saying that he was sorry for our loss,' Hoover told DailyMail.com in an interview. 'It was just a canned letter. Everybody got the same exact one.'

The grieving and angry father said he's spent the last two years trying to get answers about what went wrong that fateful day. 'Every door we've tried to open has been slammed in our face,' he said.

'Nothing from the Pentagon, nothing from the Marine Corps about what happened that day,' Hoover went on.

The late staff sergeant and Salt Lake City native had grown up dreaming of being a U.S. Marine. Hoover said he'd felt 'disheartened' that the institution his son grown up wanting to serve could treat them this way after he made the ultimate sacrifice.

'The only thing we've gotten from the administration, from the White House from anybody else was a Xeroxed copy and stamp signature from Biden saying that he was sorry for our loss,' Hoover told DailyMail.com in an interview. 'It was just a canned letter. Everybody got the same exact one'

Darin Hoover's 31-year-old son Taylor (pictured) was one of 13 U.S. service members killed by the explosion while helping evacuate thousands of Americans and allies from Hamid Karzai International Airport

Hoover had grown up wanting to be a Marine - his call to serve 'solidified' after 9/11

Hoover said he came to believe his son, above, was likely killed in a shootout - after the Pentagon told them there was no gunfire after the bombing

'Taylor was always bigger than most kids. If he saw someone getting bullied he'd step in and try to help. He was always the anti-bully,' Hoover said.

'He always wanted to be a Marine. When he was 11 years old on 9/11, watching the plane crash into the second tower, that just solidified things for him.'

Hoover said the two Marines that showed up to his family's door step told them that Taylor had died on impact in the bombing - and they later learned from firsthand witnesses that he had lived for hours after that.

'They just tried to fill in a bunch of lies, like yeah he died on impact. He was standing there, he went down immediately, he was killed instantly,' said Hoover.

Hoover said he came to believe his son was likely killed in a shootout - after the Pentagon told them there was no gunfire after the bombing.

President Joe Biden is under fire for appearing to look at his watch during Sunday's 'dignified transfer' onto American soil of the 13 American troops killed in Thursday's Kabul suicide bomb attack

The US Marine Corps posted a photo to Twitter Sunday evening, of the flag flag-draped caskets of their fallen brethren killed in Thursday's suicide bomb attack in Kabul

'He was handing out ammunition from his vest to his guys, wanting to keep them in the fight. And to tell us, you know, that there was no gunfire or anything like that was another lie, because we've talked to the guys that were there. And they told us "Yes. There was gunfire. We were being shot at."'

'It is frustrating and disheartening that our own government can't tell us how or why our kids were killed the way that they were.'

On Tuesday the House Foreign Affairs Committee will hear from the families who lost loved ones at the Kabul bombing at a roundtable in Washington, D.C.- days after the two-year anniversary of the attack.

Biden commemorated the attack with a statement on Saturday:

'Today, Jill and I remember and mourn these 13 brave American service members and the more than 100 innocent Afghan civilians who were killed in the horrific terrorist attack at Abbey Gate,' he said. 'We pray for the families of our fallen warriors. We grieve with them, we honor them, and we will always continue to support them.'

Taylor's father said he was 'terrified' when he learned his son had been called to assist with the withdrawal in Afghanistan

Smoke rises from explosion outside the airport in Kabul, Afghanistan, Thursday, Aug. 26, 2021.

An ambulance is seen at the explosion site near the Kabul airport in Afghanistan, Aug. 27, 2021

Some 170 Afghans died in the Kabul attack as they desperately tried to escape looming Taliban rule - another 150 were injured.

But Hoover tore into President Biden for claiming he was locked in to a timeline agreed to under a treaty between President Trump and the Taliban, and for framing the withdrawal as a success.

'When Biden replaced President Trump, he went and undid every single thing that Trump had put in place,' Hoover said. 'He could easily have changed anything that he wanted to.'

'To call this a perfect withdrawal, I'm sorry. It was anything but,' he added, calling for top brass to resign. 'We need to get to the bottom of this and make sure it doesn't happen again.'
When the people of Lahaina woke up on Tuesday August 8, it was to strong winds courtesy of a passing hurricane and sparking power lines.

By midnight, their town was gone  consumed by a vicious fire whipped up by the gales that tore through its wooden buildings in less than 20 minutes and left 115 people dead and hundreds more missing.

Three weeks on from the what promises to be the deadliest wildfire in US history and the blame game is underway.

A series of blunders by emergency officials and power company Hawaiian Electric left the residents of Lahaina with no warning of the impending disaster and without water to fight the flames as the electric pumps shut down when the power failed.

Benny Reinicke, 29, lived in Lahaina for six years before losing his home in the fire.

He told DailyMail.com: 'We were as surprised as surprised can be. I mean, there was no warning. It was literally us looking up in the sky and realizing we're about to die.

'This is it. This is the moment. This is how we're going out. We're going to catch on fire, and this is how we're going to die.'

Benny Reinicke, who had lived in Lahaina for six years, told DailyMail.com he had been repeatedly woken in the night by the wind and had experienced a power outage in the early hours of August 8 but had no idea there was a fire until approximately 4:30pm that afternoon when he smelled smoke

Residents had awoken to reports of a brush fire early that morning, and by midnight, the town was entirely consumed by flames

A general view shows the aftermath of a wildfire in Lahaina, Hawaii on August 21. Hawaii's electric utility acknowledged its power lines started a wildfire on Maui but faulted county firefighters for declaring the blaze contained and leaving the scene

Herman Andaya, 51, the official tasked with overseeing emergency preparations, resigned last week citing health problems but had been heavily criticized for failing to sound emergency sirens that could have alerted people to the fire.

Meanwhile, Maui County is suing Hawaiian Electric over its alleged failure to maintain power lines properly while the Maui Fire Department has been criticized for failing to completely stamp out a small bush fire it said was contained that later flared up into a deadly blaze.

The utility denies its downed lines were to blame.

Reinicke told DailyMail.com: 'The cell towers were down, and the cable was down  there's not much you can do other than sound the alarm to warn the people that there's some catastrophic danger approaching.'

He added: 'I haven't seen the data that others have seen but I have to assume that if the alarm had been sounded, many more lives would have been saved.'

The first reports of fire in Lahaina came at 6:37am when locals called 911 over a small brush fire that had flared up, sparked by power cables knocked down by strong winds.

Maui Management Agency Administrator Herman Andaya resigned last week amid mounting criticism, but cited health problems for his departure

Dominga Advincula, who lived in a house in the foothills on the northwestern side of town, spotted the flames on the hillside and called 911.

By 9am, officials said the blaze was 100 per cent contained and fire crews departed to deal with some of the other fires that had sprung up around the island; sparked by the same combination of fallen power lines and high winds.

One was in Kula; a tiny town on the western flanks of Haleakala  the huge volcano that dominates Maui.

National Parks employee Ross Hart, 72, told DailyMail.com that the Upcountry Fire, as it came to be known, first flared up around 11am when a eucalyptus tree fell on a power line.

Within minutes, the flames were 'burning up and down, east and west' and coming ever closer to Hart's home.

With time to evacuate, the elderly and children of Kula were sent downhill to safety while Hart and other homeowners stayed to protect their property.

'The fire department drove past and said you better go because we're having a hard time,' Hart said. 'Every time they put a bit out, another bit would go up. It was crazy for them.'

The first reports of fire in Lahaina came at 6:37am when locals called 911 over a small brush fire that had flared up, sparked by power cables knocked down by strong winds. PICTURED: Electric crews work on power lines in the aftermath of the blaze

National Parks employee Ross Hart, 72, told DailyMail.com that the Upcountry Fire in the tiny town of Kula, first flared up around 11am when a eucalyptus tree fell on a power line

Firefighters and volunteers were seen still managing the fires and cleaning up the damages from the Upcountry fires in Kula, Maui, on August 18

Back in Lahaina, the last fire trucks called to the scene of the brush fire were departing, with all leaving by 2pm, according to eye witnesses.

Advincula told the Los Angeles Times she had feared the embers would flare up again  and saw her worst fears realized around 4pm when she was forced to call 911 for a second time after seeing smoke 'spread like water' through the cul-de-sac where she lived.

She fled with her family to a relative's house a mile away, but less than 15 minutes after arriving, her son told her: 'Mom, we have to leave this house. It's getting hot.'.

She added: 'Coming up from that street  Paunau  to Front Street, it's a dead stop  like trees falling on the cars, black. Like apocalypse. It was hard to get out.'

Reinicke told DailyMail.com he had been repeatedly woken in the night by the wind and had experienced a power outage in the early hours of August 8, but he had no idea there was a fire until approximately 4:30pm that afternoon when he smelled smoke.

Taking an electric scooter, he drove a few blocks away and looked up to see the hillside on fire  but even then didn't realize the gravity of what was happening.

He said: 'That hill has been on fire maybe two, three other times. I'm thinking, 'oh good, here goes another fire. I'm going to report on my phone, show it to my friends, how close I am, things like that. Then it got a little bit darker.'

The 29-year-old headed back towards his home but when he got a block away, he saw embers jump 200 yards and set a building nearby on fire.

He said: 'That's how strong the winds were. It was so fast. I saw the smoke change color and get thicker, and I knew right then and there, I need to get out of here.'

Reinicke ran home, grabbed a bag containing his cards and personal documents and jumped in his car to flee.

Maui County has blamed Hawaiian Electric's failure to maintain the system and the grid for causing systemic failures and ultimately three fires on the island

Utility crews work on a power line along Lahainaluna Road, in Lahaina, Hawaii, on August 11. When the winds of Hurricane Dora lashed Maui days earlier, they struck bare electrical lines the Hawaiian electric utility had left exposed to the elements

By then, the two routes out of town were clogged with traffic as people tried to escape the flames, with many getting stuck along Front Street  the historic town's prime tourist attraction.

Among them was Candee Olafson, 65, who had seen smoke from her hillside home and driven into Lahaina on her blue moped to warn former neighbors.

She told DailyMail.com: 'I was in town when it started to right to flame up. The police had us going in circles. If they just let us go out of town, there'd be a lot less dead.

'But we kept going in circles and I made it out of town in a couple of hours, when it usually takes three minutes.'

She was one of the lucky ones. Others, among them whole families, burned alive in their homes and in their cars, while others were taken by smoke inhalation as they attempted to flee into the ocean.

Reinicke was among the people who made it into the Pacific and abandoned his car on Front Street after becoming stuck in traffic.

He described how he saw cars exploding one by one as the flames hit and how Lahaina's Outlet Mall blazed up just feet from him.

Despite the threat to his own life, he stopped to help others: a woman named Lisa and her 88-year-old mother, and then Sincerity Mirkovich and her daughter Lani Williams who were struggling to clamber over a boulder and into the safety of the Pacific.

Reinicke described the next eight hours as 'the worst of my life' as he and the women took refuge in the ocean, dousing themselves to stop their skin drying out from the heat of the flames and trying not to breathe in the thick, black smoke.

Candee Olafson, 65, spoke to DailyMail.com about her remarkable escape on her tiny blue moped, 'Blue Angel', as raging wildfires were threatening to engulf Lahaina earlier this month

As the night wore on, the waves got bigger forcing the group to cling to rocks by the shoreline while all became increasingly cold.

Eventually, Reinicke and the women climbed on to the rocks themselves where they watched as boats sped out to sea after the harbor caught fire.

In the early hours of August 9, the coastguard approached and initially attempted to evacuate them on surfboards before they were finally rescued by firefighters who had battled through the flames and took them to safety.

Allisen Medina, who has been helping out displaced wildfire victims in Lahaina, said some have discovered the charred remains of their own loved ones

Tragically, that help came too late for some: Reinicke describes trying to help a man in his 40s lying near the cars only to realize he was already dead  a victim of the smoke.

Olafson, meanwhile, had fled her home on her moped and battled her way through gale force winds to the safety of Maalaea; a 16-mile journey that took her all night.

In Kula, Hart battled the flames approaching his house of 36 years until 10.30pm that night, only conceding defeat when power cuts meant the electric pumps supplying Kula and Lahaina with water shut off.

In both towns, the lack of water proved devastating: 19 homes burned in Kula while 2,200 were destroyed in Lahaina.

Hart told DailyMail.com: 'The way I saw it, we were winning  the main flames were moving down the gully [behind his house]  but the winds were something else; they kept kicking up sparks and embers.

'Once the water shut off, we couldn't fight that heat. It was because the power had shut off and there was no backup generator.'

Earlier this week, the State of Hawaii filed a lawsuit against power provider Hawaiian Electric for damages after multiple videos taken on the day of the deadly fires showed blazes being sparked by faulty power lines.

The company is accused of failing to maintain equipment and the power grid, and 'failing to power down their electrical equipment despite a National Weather Service Red Flag Warning on August 7.'

Meanwhile, Andaya, the now former administrator of Maui's Emergency Management Agency resigned.

Maui County last week filed a lawsuit against energy firm Hawaiian Electric for the damages caused by the wildfires on the Island

The damage in Maui led to at least 115 deaths as hundreds evacuated from their homes amid the deadly wildfires

He has been blamed for the decision not to sound the emergency sirens and was off the island when the fires broke out.

Residents had also been left furious by the fact Maui appeared to be underprepared for disaster, the slow pace of recovery efforts and Andaya's insistence that the sirens are only used for tsunamis and that sounding them would have led to people running towards the flames.

In the week following the disaster, Allisen Medina, 24, told DailyMail.com: 'People have been doing their own recovery.

'I know there are at least 480 dead here in Maui and I don't understand why they're [the authorities] not saying that. Maybe it's to do with DNA or something.

'I do know they ran out of body bags by the first or second night and had to ship some in from the mainland.'

She added: 'Why didn't they turn on the sirens? They're not just for tsunamis  go to their website and it says they're for fires, other disasters, everything.

'What he [Andaya] said is so disgusting and disrespectful  does he really think people would run towards fire, that they wouldn't have looked out and seen it?'

Last week, as he surveyed the still smoking ruins of his four-bedroom home, Hart joked: 'I've been 36 years in this house. We built it. But at least the termites are gone and the rats ran away. Now we can start clean.'

Growing serious, he added: 'We had time and saw it coming. Lahaina didn't.'
Capitalist politicians are increasingly wrapping-up austerity measures in green packaging  provoking a backlash amongst ordinary people, and polarising the working class. This article was originally published by our comrades in Britain in the wake of the expansion of Londons Ultra-Low Emission Zone (ULEZ), which penalises thousands of working-class commuters in the name of protecting the environment.

From today, Londons Ultra-Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) will be expanded to cover the entirety of the city.

Extending to outer boroughs, 280,000 additional motorists will soon face a 12.50 per day charge to drive within areas newly-covered by the capitals clean-air scheme.

This latest move by London Mayor Sadiq Khan has provoked a considerable backlash. Many leading Labour figures have blamed the ULEZ expansion plans for the partys recent by-election defeat in Uxbridge.

No doubt, coming on top of the cost-of-living crisis, this policy will be a step too far for many already-burdened working-class Londoners.

Workers have every right to be angered. Yet again, the establishment is placing all the burden for addressing environment issues onto the shoulders of ordinary people. Meanwhile, the billionaires and their fortunes are left untouched.

Who pays?

In 2018, rising fuel taxes are precisely what sparked the yellow vests movement / Image: fair use

Again and again in recent years, the ruling class has sought to make individual workers foot the costs for the climate crisis, through so-called green taxes. In reality, this means green austerity.

With the governments energy price cap coming to an end, for example, UK households are seeing the return of green levies on their energy bills  equating to around an extra 170 per year.

In other words, instead of profiteering energy monopolies paying for investment in renewable technologies and insulation, it is ordinary families who are expected to cough up.

In Germany, meanwhile, new gas boiler installations are to be banned from the start of 2024. Consequently, workers will be forced to buy expensive heat pumps for around 25,000-30,000. With around half of German households currently using natural gas systems, this imposes severe technical and financial challenges on poorer families.

This has led thousands of Germans to quickly buy new gas boilers before the 2024 deadline, in order to avoid shelling out on much more costly heat pumps down the line  defeating the purpose of these new regulations entirely!

Similarly, the EUs Green Deal, which includes a much-needed plan for retrofitting old buildings (46 million to be precise) to make them carbon neutral, will also heap additional costs onto the working class.

In France, President Emmanuel Macron has made much fanfare around proposals for a global levy on greenhouse gas emissions from the shipping industry. At the same time, however, the French government has opposed calls for a green wealth tax aimed at the wealthiest ten percent.

Macron should know better than asking workers to pay for environmental measures. In 2018, rising fuel taxes are precisely what sparked the yellow vests movement, which saw hundreds of thousands protest against his government, with a backdrop of rising living costs, stagnant wages, and ongoing austerity.

Division and polarisation

In essence, the ruling class is greenwashing its attacks on the working class; presenting cuts and austerity in a seemingly progressive packaging.

Elsewhere, meanwhile, both the Biden administration and Starmers Labour have attempted to paint protectionist policies and state subsidies for big business in green colours. In other words, economic programmes aimed at defending the capitalists interests are masked behind hot-air rhetoric about tackling climate change.

In the absence of a clear class-based solution, this has pushed layers of workers into opposing so-called green policies. In more extreme cases, it has led to hostility against environmental activists  or even to outright climate change denial.

The result is that the working class is increasingly being divided and polarised on environmental issues.

In Britain, for example, the recent rollout of low traffic neighbourhoods (LTNs)  road blockages aimed at reducing urban car usage  has stirred up anger amongst local residents.

Complaints have been raised that LTNs have been hastily implemented, without any input from the community, and have simply diverted traffic to poorer, less gentrified areas.

In essence, the ruling class is greenwashing its attacks on the working class / Image: Socialist Appeal

In turn, reactionary elements have opportunistically hijacked these questions for their own narrow interests.

Right-wing pundits such as Nigel Farage are actively and cynically seeking to whip up a culture war, for example, pitching motorists against environmentalists.

Similarly, the EUs retrofit plans have played directly into the hands of the reactionary Meloni government in Italy, where the policy is particularly unpopular due to the high concentration (and associated costs) of affected buildings.

In turn, establishment politicians are increasingly making noises about scrapping existing climate legislation. Both Rishi Sunak and Keir Starmer have been quick to declare themselves friends of motorists. And pressure is growing among Tory backbenchers for the UK government to abandon its net-zero emissions pledge, with some even calling for a referendum on this issue.

Fight for revolution

The ruling class push for green austerity  and with this, the stirring up of an environmental culture war  highlights the inability of the capitalist system to solve the climate crisis.

In Britain, public transport has been gutted by cuts and plagued by underinvestment. In this context, policies such as the ULEZ expansion mean extra costs for workers who rely on their cars to go about their daily lives. Without proper alternatives in place, many are left with no choice but to take the financial hit.

All the while, the real polluters  the fossil fuel monopolies and other big businesses  are free to carry on as they please, making merry profits along the way.

Attempts to build new infrastructure, such as the farce of HS2, meanwhile, demonstrate how incapable the capitalists and their representatives are at implementing the measures necessary.

Despite the immense amount of wealth that exists in society, the ruling class expects workers to pay for the climate crisis  a crisis caused by the bosses and their profit-driven exploitation of the environment.

Instead, we need to make the billionaires pay for this crisis. This means expropriating the commanding heights of the economy and planning production along socialist lines, in order to make the urgent changes required to protect people and the planet.

Only then can green energy supplies, quality public infrastructure, and eco-friendly homes be brought in on a mass scale, without the working class paying the price through job losses and unbearable living costs.

In place of the greenwashing of the ruling class, we must fight for socialist revolution.
A Teal MP who wanted gas connections in new homes to be banned because they are 'a climate crime' has just sold a house loaded with new gas features for more than $6million.

In a speech on June 21, North Sydney MP Kylea Tink said Australia needs to 'break not only our society's reliance on gas but also our government's addiction to gas'.

She called on the federal government to force NSW to follow Victoria in banning gas connections in new households - which NSW Premier Chris Minns ruled out.

But the independent MP has just sold her six-bedroom home in Northbridge for $6.35million - around double the price she paid ten years ago.

Its features include a recently renovated kitchen, complete with a gas stove. There is also a gas fireplace, and the pool is gas-heated too.

In a speech on June 21, North Sydney Teal MP Kylea Tink (pictured left) said Australia needs to 'break not only our society's reliance on gas but also our government's addiction to gas'

Ms Tink issued a tweet (pictured) calling gas connections in new build properties 'a climate crime'

In a tweeted message to Mr Minns a month ago, Ms Tink wrote that his 'decision to rule out stopping gas connections in new builds is a climate crime.

'Real leadership would have been supporting for households to get off gas and onto cheaper, cleaner renewables.'

READ MORE: NSW premier Chris Minns refuses to follow Victoria and ban new homes from having gas connections Advertisement

Before the last federal budget, Ms Tink called for households to be paid to electrify their homes and vehicles.

She said households faced 'significant decisions and upfront financial outlays' in 'replacing gas appliances with efficient electric ones'.

Two months ago, Ms Tink told parliament that when it comes to gas, 'It is time we moved beyond platitudes and million-dollar headlines to really be the change we need to see.'

She also told her fellow MPs in the same speech that 'when I was elected a year ago one of my pledges was to get North Sydney to net zero by 2035.

'And I'm incredibly grateful to the people I get to work with  both the experts and my community members who are working to make this happen.

'They do it by nudging the 80,000 homeowners, landlords, families and businesses in our electorate to make a set of decisions over the next 12 years to get them to choose home appliances that bring them closer to an electrified future.'

Contacted by Daily Mail Australia, Ms Tink said 'I stand by my calls for no new gas projects, and no new domestic gas connections.

'I also stand by my call for Australia's leaders to support households getting off gas.'

She added that she 'bought that house with a gas pool heater and during the decade I owned it, it was never used.

'The gas appliances were installed at a time when gas was the greener option  that is no longer the case and households should be incentivised to replace gas with renewables.'
The Navy SEAL who shot dead Osama Bin Laden and was cuffed on charges of assault and intoxication allegedly called a security guard a racial slur during his arrest.

Robert J O'Neill, 47, was detained on Wednesday in Frisco, Texas, where he had been recording a podcast at a cigar lounge.

The one-time hero, who has taken credit for firing the shots that killed the former Al-Qaeda leader in 2011, was booked into jail in Collin County and released on $3,500 bond.

Now, the NYPost has reported that he was arrested for beating up a security guard and calling him the N-word twice while drunk at a hotel bar.

He has denied using the slur.

Pictured: O'Neill's new mugshot. According to documents, he was arrested for beating up a security guard and calling him the N-word twice while drunk at a hotel bar. He has denied using the slur

Details of the incident have not been disclosed but records show he was booked into jail in Collin County and released on $3,500 bond

O'Neill had fallen asleep while drinking at Omni at The Star, the Frisco Police Department said. A security guard then tried to help him to his room on the fifth floor, first by offering to use a wheelchair.

The hotel security officer told the police: ['O'Neill] turned to him, rose his fists in the air and struck him in his chest with his right palm.

'Robert called him a 'f*****g n*****.' He allegedly repeated the slur again.

O'Neill vehemently denied using the slur at his arrest.

He tweeted on Monday: 'I categorically deny ever using this horrible language recently reported.'

According to a police document, the guard was so badly hurt that medics had to be called to treat him. O'Neill could barely stand because of his inebriation.

The officer wrote in the arrest document: 'Robert had a strong odor of alcoholic beverage emitting from his body as well as red glassy eyes. Corporal Anderson observed that Robert was holding a silver credit card in his hand. Robert pressed the card against the lock trying to open the room.'

When authorities tried to question O'Neill, including how much he'd had to drink, he refused to give answers.

The former Navy SEAL just repeatedly said: 'We good.'

Police said he faced a Class A misdemeanor charge of assault causing bodily injury and a Class C misdemeanor charge of public intoxication, the Dallas Morning News said.

Former SEAL Team member Robert O'Neil has gone on to become a podcaster and commentator on military issues

Robert J O'Neill, 47, who has taken credit for firing the shots that killed the former Al-Qaeda leader in a 2010 raid, was detained on Wednesday in Frisco, where he had been recording a podcast at a cigar lounge. Pictured with wife Jessica in 2017

The case is not O'Neill's first run-in with the law since he rose to fame for his role in Operation Neptune Spear to kill Bin Laden. In 2016, he was arrested in Montana for drink driving but prosecutors later dropped the charges.

He has gone on to become a podcaster and commentator on military issues.

In May, O'Neill expressed outrage at the U.S. Navy using a drag queen for a discarded recruitment program.

O'Neill, who served for eight years as a member of SEAL Team Six, said on Twitter he 'can't believe [he] fought for this bulls**t.'

'Alright. The U.S. Navy is now using an enlisted sailor Drag Queen as a recruiter,' he wrote. 'I'm done. China is going to destroy us.'

Osama Bin Laden was the head of Al-Qaeda and masterminded the September 11 attacks

Robert J O'Neill, 47, was detained on Wednesday in Frisco, where he had been recording a podcast at a cigar lounge. Pictured: His 2016 mugshot

O'Neill was referencing Yeoman 2nd Class Joshua Kelley, whose stage name is Harpy Daniels, who announced on TikTok in November that she would be the Navy's first 'digital ambassador.'

Kelley was tasked with highlighting her journey from performing on board beginning in 2018 and growing to become an 'advocate' for those who 'were oppressed for years in the service.'

A Navy spokesman later said the digital ambassador program was a pilot that ended in March 2023.

The program Kelley was part of ran from October 2022 to March 2023 and was designed to 'explore the digital environment to reach a wide range of potential candidates' for military recruitment.
'Most concerned' at the message No result could bring

Julie Bishop has warned Australia risks global backlash if the proposed Indigenous Voice to Parliament ends in a No vote.

The former federal deputy Liberal leader turned Australian National University chancellor has distanced herself from the Coalition's opposition of the Voice to throw her support behind the Yes campaign.

She teamed up with her former political rivals, including current foreign minister Senator Penny Wong, in her hometown of Perth on Monday to drum up support for the Yes vote ahead of October's referendum.

Ms Bishop is 'most concerned' about the message a No vote could send to the rest of the world, fearing it could affect Australia's image of 'openness and empathy'.

'It's not a front-of-mind issue for most people, but I know that Australia's international reputation can be affected by a No vote,' she said.

Julie Bishop (left) hit the streets of Perth on Monday with Senator Penny Wong (centre) and Yes campaign director Dean Parkin (right) to drum up support for the Voice

'I have no doubt that it will be sending a very negative message about the openness and the empathy and the respect and responsibility that the Australian people have for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders.

READ MORE: Jana Pittman reveals why she is 'struggling' to make a decision on the Voice Jana Pittman has revealed she is confused about how to vote in the Voice to Parliament referendum (Pictured after winning the women's 400 metre Hurdles final at the 2006 Commonwealth Games in Melbourne) Advertisement

'It's probably more difficult for Penny to say this because she's out there on the international stage having to promote Australia's current position, but I would be most concerned at the message this would send the rest of the world if we can't find it in our hearts to say yes.'

She believed the Voice is the opportunity to 'get things right' for Indigenous Australians and hopes to see a respectful and sensible debate over the coming weeks.

'We've done a great deal of research and analysis on the Uluru Statement from the Heart, the Yes campaign, the referendum, and we believe that this is an opportunity to get things right,' Ms Bishop added.

'I believe that this is an opportunity first to give Aboriginal Torres Strait Islanders their rightful place in the Constitution, but secondly, to give them the right and the risk and the responsibility to come up with policies that will address the problems as they see them and get better outcomes, and I truly believe that this is our opportunity.'

The Voice referendum requires both a national majority and a majority in at least four of the six states in order to pass.

While Ms Bishop is popular in her home state, Western Australia is among the states where the majority support is currently with the No vote.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese will attend a Yes campaign event in Adelaide on Wednesday where the referendum date will be announced, widely rumoured to be October 14.

The ex-foreign minister (pictured at a recent Lancome launch in Sydney) had distanced herself from her former party's criticism of the Voice

The federal cabinet met in Perth on Monday, where it was expected to discuss and sign off on the referendum plan.

Ms Bishop explained her reasons for her support of the Voice at the National Press Club last month.

She said the country had to give Indigenous people the chance to come up with solutions to reduce inequality and disparity.

'It's a question of giving Indigenous people the franchise to make decisions to implement policies that will work. We've got to give it a chance.'

Polls show the Voice is on track to be defeated with Victoria currently the only state to back a Yes vote.

For the referendum to pass it has to get a majority of the national vote and also win at least four of the six states.

Nationally, the No side is leading with 47 per cent, with the Yes side on 43 per cent, while 10 per cent of people have still not made up their mind.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese will announce the referendum date on Wednesday
The sheriff investigating the brutal murder of Rachel Morin has warned the suspect - who has been tied to a March home invasion and rape of a girl in Los Angeles - could be a serial killer who could be preparing to strike again.

Morin, 37, set out on August 5 for a hike and left her car at the Williams Street trailhead in the center of Bel Air, Maryland, about 20 miles northeast of Baltimore when she was killed.

Her body was discovered the day after she disappeared naked and beaten in a tunnel along the scenic Ma & Pa Heritage Trail.

After DNA at a crime scene in Los Angeles matched that at the scene of Morin's killing, Harford County Sheriff Jeff Gahler said Monday that there may be a disturbing pattern developing - while the suspect is still on the loose.

'Serial killers all start somewhere. What he did in Los Angeles was certainly, I believe, in that direction,' said Gahler. 'I believe it was his intention to inflict more serious physical harm.'

The sheriff investigating the brutal murder of Rachel Morin (pictured believes the suspect - who has been tied to a March home invasion and rape of a girl in Los Angeles - could be a serial killer

The man can be seen walking away from the house in Los Angeles. His DNA was linked to the LA home invasion and the body of Morin

A manhunt is currently underway for the unidentified suspect who committed the grizzly murder as well as the rape earlier this year on the West Coast.

Gahler said that he and some of his deputies from Harford County visited Los Angeles last week to investigate but it's still too early to tell just what they're dealing with.

'We don't know who he is yet,' the sheriff added. 'He could still be laying his head here in our county, or he could have fled anywhere in the country or even the world.'

The unidentified suspect in the case is described as a Hispanic man, aged between 20 and 30. He is approximately 5-feet 9-inches tall, weighing around 160lbs, and muscular.

'We believe this was a person that Rachel didn't know, potentially a random act of violence,' said Colonel William Davis, speaking at a news conference last week.

'We know nothing more about him other than he was in L.A. in March and we believe him to be the murderer.'

Davis said they are not looking for any accomplices, and told local people to be on their guard.

'We believe the suspect acted alone and, he does not represent the entire Hispanic community of Harford County, who we are now partnering with to identify this suspect,' he said.

After DNA at a crime scene in Los Angeles matched that at the scene of Morin's killing, Harford County Sheriff Jeff Gahler (pictured) said Monday that there may be a disturbing pattern developing'

Gahler said that he and some of his deputies from Harford County visited Los Angeles last week to investigate but it's still too early to tell just what they're dealing with

Morin in a picture shared by the Harford County Sheriff's Office in August shortly before she was found murdered

Ten deputies are working to solve the case, and they have received more than 100 tips - but he urged people to send in more, even if the information seemed inconsequential

'I know I can speak for the sheriff when I say we are very proud of this community.'

Gahler said ten deputies are working to solve the case, and they have received more than 100 tips - but he urged people to send in more, even if the information seemed inconsequential.

Just days ago, Morin's boyfriend shared his relief after police identified a suspect in her murder. Richard Tobin, 27, was the one to report Morin missing after she went for a walk and did not return home. He also found her car at the trailhead.

Tobin had given investigators a DNA sample and handed over his cell phone, said: 'I hope they found this scum of the earth, justice for Rachel. Rip, love you Rach.'

She had only recently publicly declared her relationship with Tobin on Facebook, and it was unclear how long they had been together.

Gahler has clarified in the weeks since her death that they do not believe Tobin to be a suspect in the mother of five's murder.

'At this point, there is no indication that he was involved. But until we know who this guy is or whether he acted alone, the entire world is a suspect,' Gahler said.

Tobin has maintained his innocence in the matter since her disappearance.

In one Facebook post, he wrote: 'I love Rachel. I would never do anything to her, let the family and I grieve. Yes, I have a past but I also have 15 months clean and have changed as a person.'

Tobin has been arrested 14 times since 2014 on a variety of charges including drug dealing, assault, disorderly conduct and refusing arrest.

Morin had recently announced on Facebook she was in a relationship with Richard Tobin

This is the trail where Morin's body was found on August 6

It is believed Morin's body was found in one of the drainage tunnels of the trail

Law enforcement have not released a cause of death for the woman.

A source close the family told DailyMail.com in mid-August that the young mother had suffered serious head trauma.

'The injuries were so horrific that there won't be an open casket (at her funeral),' the source said.

A spokeswoman for Harford County's Sheriff's Office declined to comment on the nature of how Morin was killed.

Her family say she did not 'go willingly' and that her death was 'not accidental'.
The actions of Qantas chief executive Alan Joyce 12 years ago were behind the deeply personal grilling he received during his last parliamentary appearance.

Labor senator Tony Sheldon targeted Mr Joyce with the kind of ferocity not normally associated with the Senate Select Committee on the Cost of Living.

The former national secretary of the Transport Workers Union on Monday drilled him with questions about the airline's $500million worth of unused flight credits and the CEO's $2.272million pay packet, after staff were retrenched and replaced.

The animosity goes back to October 2011 when Mr Joyce ordered the grounding of all Qantas planes during an industrial dispute with the TWU, the Australian Licensed Aircraft Engineers Association and the Australian and International Pilots Union.

Senator Sheldon appeared to lose his patience more than once with Mr Joyce during the committee hearing on Monday.

'Seriously, we are here asking questions about substantial sums of money that is owed to the Australian public overseas and through the Jetstar operations that has not been paid,' he said during the Melbourne hearing.

Alan Joyce's last parliamentary grilling as Qantas chief executive was deeply personal because of what happened 12 years ago

READ MORE: Frequent flyers erupt at Qantas CEO Alan Joyce Advertisement

'You have put an arbitrary deadline of December this year when people lose that money and the money stays in the pockets of Qantas and Jetstar and you're seriously telling the Australian public that you don't know how many tens of millions of dollars are involved above that $370million?'

Mr Joyce claimed Qantas had paid out $3billion worth of refunds since the pandemic began in March 2020, which saw borders closed.

'What we are saying, senator, is that since March 2020, $3billion worth of refunds have been granted,' he said.

Senator Sheldon called Mr Joyce out for repeating the spin instead of allegations that hundreds of millions of dollars of flight credits remained unused.

'I've heard that evidence already,' he said.

Qantas in June announced more than $500million in Covid credits were yet to be claim and would expire by the end of 2023.

But on Monday, Mr Joyce and Jetstar chief executive Stephanie Tully admitted there was still $100million to be claimed, following a report in The Australian Financial Review.

In another part of the committee hearing, Senator Sheldon pointed out the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission's misgivings about Qantas airfares, linking that with the CEO's generous $2.272million pay package.

'This is one of the most discredited companies as far as the ACCC, on its record of complaints and you're saying you deserve every dollar you've received,' he said.

Mr Joyce tried to interrupt Senator Sheldon but he continued to attack the CEO, whose 15 years running Qantas ends in November.

'Thousands of workers have been put off, given substantially lower rates of pay, been replaced by people with substantially lower rates of pay, less training, less skilling,' he said.

'All that we've lost, all the consequences we've seen in the aviation industry, with the reboot of the aviation industry, losing all that talent, and you say you should be rewarded?

'Don't you feel embarrassed? I tell you what, I'd feel embarrassed if I was you.'

Liberal senator Jane Hume, the committee chair, told the Labor senator to let Mr Joyce answer.

'Senator, you've raised a lot of issues so I hope I can get the time to address them,' Mr Joyce said.

The grilling became so heated, at one point, that Senator Sheldon accused Senator Hume of giving cover to Qantas and its budget carrier Jetstar.

'The chair wants to give you cover,' he said.

Senator Hume snapped: 'I'm not giving cover, Senator Sheldon.'

Nationals senator Matt Canavan interjected with a point of order, slamming Senator Sheldon for undermining the committee chair.

'I realise it's a very robust line of questioning but I don't think Senator Sheldon's contribution helps,' he said.

The TWU, which Mr Sheldon ran from 2006 to 2019, represented baggage handlers who were locked out of their own workplace alongside licensed engineers, ramp staff and Australian and international pilots during the 2011 dispute.

Labor senator Tony Sheldon targeted Mr Joyce with the kind of ferocity not normally associated with the Senate Select Committee on the Cost of Living, drilling him with questions about the airline's $100million worth of unused flight credits and the CEO's $2.272million

For Senator Sheldon, the animosity goes back to 2011 when Mr Joyce ordered the grounding of all Qantas planes during an industrial dispute with the Transport Workers Union (pictured), the Australian Licensed Aircraft Engineers Association and the Australian and International Pilots Union

As the enterprise dispute dragged on into late November 2011, Mr Sheldon was frustrated at Qantas for refusing to include a job security clause.

'The company has been extremely frustrating through the last seven months and even more frustrating in the last three weeks,' he said at the time.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, who was federal transport minister 12 years ago, intriguingly suggested the unions were at fault, despite the TWU's affiliation with the Labor Party.

'Its not like theyre starting today,' he told Sky News in November 2011.

'Part of the problem here is just a lack of good will, lack of respect from both sides to the dispute.'

A dozen years on, Mr Albanese has appeared with Mr Joyce as Qantas planes were adorned with Yes23 signs to promote the PM's Indigenous Voice to Parliament proposal.

A dozen years on, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese (right) has appeared with Alan Joyce as Qantas planes were adorned with Yes23 signs to promote the PM's Indigenous Voice to Parliament proposal
The extent of the climate change crisis is difficult for Britons to understand because weather in the UK is so 'drab', forecaster Bill Giles has said.

The retired BBC weather presenter, 83, warned that attitudes towards global warming and greenhouse gas emissions must change to prevent a full-scale emergency in the coming years.

A large part of the problem was convincing people there is an issue because of this year's washout summer and an autumn and winter likely to be dominated by winds.

'Here in the UK we might have wondered what the fuss was all about,' Giles told Radio Times.

'Earlier in the year the jet stream moved further south than usual and we have been under the influence of Atlantic low pressure, giving us cooler weather, rain and some very strong wind.

Former forecaster Bill Giles says that the UK's poor weather was preventing Britons from appreciating the scale of the climate crisis

This March was the wettest since 1981 and the sixth wettest since 1836. There was even a tornado reported at Hucklow in Derbyshire on the 13th of the month.'

He added: 'Part of the problem is convincing people we are running out of time when our weather here in the UK is so often drab.

So what is our weather going to be like this autumn and winter? There's very little chance of an Indian summer I'm afraid.

The weather looks likely to be dominated by winds coming in from the Atlantic and, with sea temperatures still quite high, will be on the mild side.

'There will be rain at times for all of us.'

Thick smoke fills the air near Pouman, 25km southwest of Athens. Greece was one of several European countries to experience scorching temperatures and wildfires this summer

Giles, pictured, who joined the Met Office in 1957 and led BBC Television's Met Office forecasting team from 1983 to 2000, said the recent scorching temperatures across Europe are 'climate change showing its hand, as I forecast it would do over 30 years ago'.

He said: 'Back then, I suggested that by 2030 the London summer climate would be similar to that of the south of France at the turn of this century and that by 2100 it would be similar to the Greece of today.'

He added that few people believed him when he made the prediction but stressed that 'it is already happening'.

Giles said: 'We all know what needs to be done  stop pumping greenhouse gases into the atmosphere  to have any chance of preventing global temperatures increasing by more than 1.5C.'
The CEO of Virgin Australia has lashed out at Qantas after it lobbied against Qatar Airways bringing more flights to Australia.

The Albanese government knocked back a bid by Qatar to operate an additional 21 services out of Australia per week after lobbying from the national carrier Qantas.

Virgin Australia's boss Jayne Hrdlicka said allowing more Qatar flights in and out of the country could bring down airfares by 40 per cent, as well as providing a huge boost to the tourism industry.

She hit back at comments from Assistant Treasurer Stephen Jones who suggested bringing prices of flights down would make it 'unsustainable' for Qantas.

'We can drive prices down but if we drive them down to a level where it's actually unsustainable to run an airline, instead of having two carriers we will design our markets in a way which will make it unsustainable for the existing Australian-based carrier,' Mr Jones said on Monday morning.

Virgin boss Jayne Hrdlicka said allowing more Qatar flights in and out of the country could bring down airfares by 40 per cent and would be a huge boost to the tourism industry. The government blocked Qatar's bid for more services

'Having a national airline that occasionally post a profit is not a bad news story. It's actually a good news story.'

Ms Hrdlicka said the comments were 'disappointing' and said she didn't believe the government had the 'full facts' about the benefits of having more flight services available.

READ MORE: Alan Joyce refuses to answer questions on giving Prime Minister Anthony Albanese's son access to exclusive lounge Nathan Albanese (centre), the 23-year-old son of Prime Minister Albanese and his ex-wife Carmel Tebbutt, a former NSW deputy premier, was reportedly given special treatment Advertisement

'It's a disappointing statement, and I'm sure that every CEO in the country was disappointed to hear that there's one company in the country that should be protected, and profits should be protected,' she told ABC's RN Breakfast on Tuesday.

She stressed Qantas was not government-owned and had shut down during the Covid pandemic.

'I don't think the government had the full facts, I'm surprised to hear the basis for the decision would be to protect Qantas profits, that's super surprising and very disappointing if that's the case,' she said.

The Virgin CEO also shot down claims from Qantas boss Alan Joyce who said allowing more flights into Australia could distort the international market.

'It's a bit of a nonsense to say it's a market distortion,' she said.

'Qantas and Emirates together as partners have roughly 45 per cent share to Europe over the Middle East.

'And Qatar today has about 23 per cent  there's no market distortion that can be argued as a reason not to add Qatar's flights.'

Ms Hrdlicka claims she has repeatedly reached out to the government to discuss the Qatar matter with them, but is yet to hear back.

She said Qantas, who posted a $2.5billion profit for the past financial year, was the only party objecting to the Qatar bid.

'I'd encourage the government to step back and say let's get all the facts on the table and understand what's actually in the national interest,' she continued.

'There's over $500million in economic interest at stake here in the tourism industry, that's a lot of jobs and reinforcement for vital parts of the economy.

'You need to have a very good reason to walk past that.'

Qantas boss Alan Joyce had lobbied the government, saying blocking Qatar from having operating more services in and out of Australia was in the national interest

Airfares are 50 per cent higher now than they were before the pandemic, Ms Hrdlicka said, with two thirds of seats flying in and out having since returned.

'If we get that one third back, airfares will be as low as they could be,' she said.

'It's really important we take advantage of every opportunity to get more seats in and out of Australia.'

It comes after Mr Joyce admitted the airline lobbied the government, saying it amounted to protecting Australia's national interest.

Mr Albanese's relationship with Mr Joyce has come under close public scrutiny after it was revealed the Prime Minister's son Nathan had been granted access to the exclusive Chairman's Lounge.

The opposition has also hit out at a lack of transparency underpinning a decision to ban Qatar from flying more domestic routes, saying it is not the job of the government to protect Qantas' profits.

The Albanese government knocked back a bid by Qatar to operate an additional 21 services out of Australia per week after lobbying from the national carrier Qantas

Liberal frontbencher Simon Birmingham said it was not clear cut why the government denied Qatar the extra routes.

'We've had reasons thrown up in terms of behaviour of officials in Qatar, we've had reasons about Qantas' profitability, we've had reasons about questions around purchasing of new aircraft,' he told Sky News.

READ MORE: Why Qantas CEO Alan Joyce's grilling by Labor senator Tony Sheldon was deeply personal Alan Joyce's last parliamentary grilling as Qantas chief executive was deeply personal because of what happened 12 years ago Advertisement

'It's not the government's job to automatically make Qantas profitable.

'Of course, we want to see the national carrier be profitable and for it not to need government intervention or bailing out but there's no transparency around the basis upon which the government formed this decision.'

Opposition finance spokeswoman Jane Hume said it was 'quite confronting' that Qantas heavily lobbied the Albanese government to deny Qatar the extra flights, which would have provided an extra one million seats a year.

'Increasing the competition would bring down the cost of airfares for Australians and the Albanese government has denied that,' she told Seven's Sunrise program.

'They actually went against departmental advice after lobbying from Qantas, now, that in itself is a great concern because it means that the government is actually artificially keeping airfares high.'

Mr Joyce had claimed Qatar's additional services wouldn't bring airfares down.

He said the airline could add capacity through flying bigger aircraft to cities like Adelaide and Darwin.

'There is nothing stopping them from adding capacity to those locations,' he said while appearing before a Senate committee on the cost of living crisis on Monday.

Ms Hrdlicka ran Qantas budget carrier Jetstar from 2012 to 2017, and answered to Mr Joyce.
The family of an Australian student poisoned in Taiwan who raised almost $210,000 to fly him home have broken their silence after Daily Mail Australia revealed they had initially failed to donate surplus funds as promised.

Alex Shorey, 24, from Toowoomba in southern Queensland, fell ill after he was allegedly drugged with rat poison by an older woman while studying abroad.

His aunt, Lizzy Shorey-Kitson, launched a GoFundMe page to help pay for his medical evacuation, vowing to donate any excess funds to Queensland-based company Medical Rescue, which flew Alex back to Brisbane on May 3.

More than $208,000 was raised in less than two days.

But Daily Mail Australia revealed last month that the medivac cost just $65,000 and no donation had been made - more than three months after Alex arrived home.

Alex Shorey (left) had been fighting for his life at Taipei Medical University Hospital in Taiwan after unknowingly ingesting rat poison. He is pictured with friend Elly Chen (right) who previously said she suspected he was poisoned more than once in the period it took for doctors to work out what was wrong with him

Medical Rescue (pictured) flew Mr Shorey back from Taiwan to Princess Alexandra Hospital in Queensland. His father later said: 'I believe his medical repatriation actually saved his life'

The GoFundMe page was set up by Mr Shorey's aunt, Lizzy Shorey-Kitson (pictured) who originally said any excess funds would be donated to Medical Rescue

Now, it has emerged the family made a substantial donation to Medical Rescue soon after the Daily Mail Australia story.

'As you can appreciate, it has taken some time for costs to be finalised, given the recovery needed from such an extreme situation,' Ms Shorey-Kitson wrote on the GoFundMe page, four days after the piece was published.

'We are happy to share that all surplus funds from this page have been donated to the Medical Rescue Foundation on the Gold Coast.

'We hope these funds can now be used to help and support other families who may find themselves in times of crisis as we did.'

Daily Mail Australia understands the donation made to the foundation was $79,000. That means about $64,000 would have been leftover once the cost of the medivac was subtracted from the $208,662 total raised.

GoFundMe also takes a cut from crowdfunding ventures.

Ms Shorey-Kitson has been approached about how the remaining $64,000 was spent but has not provided a response. Daily Mail Australia is not alleging any wrongdoing on behalf of the Shorey family or by Ms Shorey-Kitson.

Police in Taiwan are investigating a 45-year-old woman over the suspected poisoning

The GoFundMe page, set-up on behalf of Mr Shorey's parents, Stephen and Julie (pictured), raised almost $210,000 in less than two days

The latest update on the GoFundMe page notes that the family's 'priority is Alex's recovery'.

TIMELINE OF TAIWAN POISONING Late March: Alex Shorey, 24, notices blood in his urine and experiences unusual bleeding. 7 April: Alex is in and out of hospital in Taiwan as doctors struggle to establish what is wrong with him. 18 April: He is admitted to the intensive care unit at Taipei Medical University Hospital after going into hypovolemic shock, an extreme condition where severe blood loss leads to the heart being unable to pump enough blood to the body. 24 April: The exchange student suffers a cardiorespiratory collapse following a severe reaction to a vitamin K treatment. 26 April: Lizzy Shorey-Kitson, Alex's aunt, sets up a GoFundMe page to raise money for his medical evacuation. 28 April: Medical Rescue receives a payment for $65,000 to fly Alex home. 29 April: Almost 3,000 people donate over $200,000 to the GoFundMe page. It is updated to tell donors that their 'generosity' has allowed the family to book a flight with Medical Rescue. Ms Shorey-Kitson writes on the GoFundMe page: Once we have Alex home, if there are any surplus funds from this GFM page, these will be paid forward via a donation to the Medical Rescue team to fund and support others who may need their urgent assistance and care. 30 April: The GoFundMe page is updated with the message: Your generosity has helped fund the medical charter flight and will go towards the extensive medical rehabilitation Alex will require. 3 May: Mr Shorey is flown to Princess Alexandra Hospital in Brisbane by Medical Rescue. 3 May: The GoFundMe is updated to thank donors for their 'kindness, generosity and support'. No mention is made about what any excess funds will be used for. 5 May: Taipei City Police reveal Alex's 45-year-old 'female friend' - who local reports refer to as his girlfriend - is under investigation for allegedly poisoning him with superwarfarin, a powerful rodent killer. 6 May: Alex's father, Dr Stephen Shorey, tells the ABC: 'I believe his medical repatriation actually saved his life'. 21 July: Medical Rescue responds to Daily Mail Australia to reveal that the Medivac cost $65,000 and the company had received no donation. 22 July: The GoFundMe page is deleted after Daily Mail Australia approaches Ms Shorey-Kitson for comment. 26 July: Daily Mail Australia publishes: Kind Australians opened their hearts - and wallets - when Alex Shorey was drugged with rat poison. But what happened to the extra $140,000 raised through GoFundMe his aunt promised to medivac heroes? 30 July: A 519-word update is posted on the now un-deleted GoFundMe page, thanking supporters for all their donations and outlining that a donation had been made to Medical Rescue. Advertisement

'We have been declining media requests since Alex's return as weve been advised not to make any further comments so as not to jeopardise the current police investigation in Taiwan,' the statement said.

The page was initially taken down following Daily Mail Australia's queries last month before a lengthy statement was added, thanking supporters for their contributions.

Alex, a University of Queensland exchange student, had been in Taiwan for a year and was weeks away from returning home to Australia when he started experiencing black skin spots and unusual bleeding.

He was admitted to Taipei Medical University Hospital's intensive care on April 18.

After days of haemorrhaging, Mr Shorey went into hypovolemic shock, meaning his organs were at risk of failing due to lack of blood.

A severe allergic reaction to a vitamin K treatment in hospital saw him go into cardiorespiratory collapse six days later.

His GP father, Dr Stephen Shorey, said his son had suffered another anaphylactic reaction shortly before leaving Taiwan.

'I believe his medical repatriation actually saved his life,' Dr Shorey told the ABC on May 6.

His parents initially believed his ailment was caused by contaminated street food but Taipei police ruled this out.

At first, doctors could not establish what was wrong with Alex before toxicology tests later showed he had ingested the rat poison superwarfarin.

Taipei Police are investigating a 45-year-old woman - reported in local media as Mr Shorey's girlfriend - over the suspected deliberate poisoning.

Local media reported that rat poison was discovered at the woman's house, similar to that found in Mr Shorey's system.

The woman is now the sole suspect of a criminal investigation and is barred from leaving the country.

In early May, English teacher Elly Chen, a close friend of Mr Shorey's and an English-teaching colleague, said she suspected he was poisoned more than once in the period it took for doctors to work out what was wrong with him.

'If things were getting better, why are you getting worse?' Ms Chen told Sky News Australia.

'What happened between the end of March and early April?

'It doesn't make sense to me, because once they figure out it's rat poison, why do things go this way, right?'

She said she took Mr Shorey on his first visit to a Taipei hospital after he started urinating blood and experiencing black skin spots and in late March.

But doctors initially dismissed his case after suggesting it was a genetic issue.

Mr Shorey was then in and out of hospital for a month as doctors scrambled to work out what was wrong with him.

Ms Chen offered the exchange student the opportunity to stay with her when his condition deteriorated.

But Mr Shorey responded to say he was 'staying at a friend's place'.

That friend is reportedly the 45-year-old Taiwanese woman who is now under police investigation after officers found a 30ml bottle of rat poison at her Taipei home.

The woman has now allegedly admitted to poisoning Mr Shorey, according to local news reports.

She reportedly said that she had intended to drink the poison herself in a suicide attempt but Mr Shorey drank it by mistake.

Authorities suspect she tried to poison the Australian to stop him returning home, according to SET News.
The Australian jobs with the biggest salary increases in the past year have been revealed, with new employees in two areas of financial services doing best.

Roles in insurance and superannuation advertised in the year to July 2023 had salaries 9.2 per cent above the previous year, according to Seek figures.

Superannuation is a massive industry, with $3.5trillion in assets held at the end of the March quarter, while the value of the insurance industry is approximately $161billion.

Profits in the financial services and insurance industry, which employs over 540,000 people, has grown strongly in the last decade.

Tradies enjoyed some of the best pay increases in the past year, with salaries for trades and services roles up 5.9 per cent while the increase was 5.4 per cent in construction

Roles in insurance and superannuation advertised in the year to July 2023 had salaries 9.2 per cent above the previous year

Jobs in the community services and development sector had the second biggest salary increases in the past year.

They were up 6.7 per cent.

Tradies did well too, with salaries for trades and services roles up 5.9 per cent.

The increase was 5.4 per cent for positions posted online in the construction industry.

Advertised jobs with biggest salary jumps Insurance and super: +9.2%

Community services and development: +6.7 %

Trades and services: +5.9%

Retail, consumer products: +5.5%

Construction: +5.4%

Admin and office support: +4.8%

Accounting: +4.8%

Sales: +4.7%

Design and architecture: +4.6%

Manufacturing, transport and logistics +4.4% Source: SEEK Advertisement

Advertised salaries in retail were up 5.5 per cent.

Across all States and Territories, Queensland fared best, with pay up 5.3 per cent on 2022.

Seek senior economist Matt Cowgill said that continues a trend that has seen salaries in the sunshine state growing since 'late 2021'.

Across all advertised roles in every industry, salaries were up 4.6 per cent for the year to July 2023.

While the Fair Work Commissions decision to raise all award wages by 5.75 per cent in July this year had an impact, Seek said it didn't 'greatly' impact its advertised salary index.

'Overall, advertised salary growth continues in the mid 4 per cent range  neither accelerating greatly nor coming back down to the two to three per cent more common before COVID,' Mr Cowgill said.

'Advertised salary growth remains solid. After a few months of softer growth it has now ticked up slightly higher in July.'

Salaries in Tasmania, South Australia and Western Australia all went up by over 5 per cent.

Advertised salaries in the public sector were at the bottom end of the scale.

Government jobs showed the smallest pay increases for the year to July 2023, just 0.9 per cent up.

IT jobs did a little better, but not much. Salaries for technology jobs were only up 1.8 per cent.
Met Police officers will be banned from supporting 'woke' causes while on duty, Britain's most senior policeman has warned.

Sir Mark Rowley says officers won't be allowed to take the knee, fly rainbow flags or wear badges that support environmental causes, The Telegraph reported.

However, the police commissioner said it is 'perfectly proper' for officers to wear remembrance poppies, Help for Heroes wristbands and the police memorial badge.

Sir Mark told the newspaper he is 'fairly narrow-minded' on the issue, adding that there are 'very few causes policing should be attached to'.

He argued that while many officers may 'personally support' the so-called woke causes, the force 'explicitly supporting' any of the causes is 'quite tricky' because officers need to be impartial.

Met Police officers will be banned from supporting 'woke' causes while on duty. Sir Mark Rowley says officers won't be allowed to take the knee, fly rainbow flags or wear badges that support environmental causes. Pictured: Two officers taking a knee outside Downing Street during a protest in June 2020

However, the police commissioner said it is 'perfectly proper' for officers to wear remembrance poppies, Help for Heroes wristbands and the police memorial badge. A policeman is pictured wearing a poppy

Sir Mark told the Telegraph that there are 'not a lot' of causes the force should align with because of the 'danger' doing so poses.

The police chief argued that it is 'not woke' to engage with community members to 'understand what worries them' but claims policing as a whole should not align itself with causes.

'The danger is that once you say, "we are going to align ourselves to a cause because 90 per cent of the population support it", what about the 10 per cent?' he said.

Sir Mark said that modern activism is challenging because of the differing directions that protest groups can take.

Many groups have 'very sensible majority membership', he argued, but says that there are also members with extremist views and 'you can't legislate that from outside it'.

He warned that it could be 'pretty fatal' for the force if people if don't believe that officers operate 'without fear or favour'.

Sir Mark told MailOnline in a statement today: 'Engaging with communities to understand what worries them isnt woke, it is a central part of our service to Londoners and at the heart of the principle of policing by consent.

'London is one of the most diverse cities in the world and its crucial we police in a way which responds to the varied, complex and unique challenges this presents.

'A cornerstone of our new plan for the Met is bringing the public into the heart of what we do to build a service Londoners deserve. Were nearing the end of 32 visits to each of the London boroughs to re-set our relationship with communities. Ive been to at least half of these and have heard more than ever how we must deliver local policing which truly reflects the needs of and concerns raised by those we serve.'

He added: 'Were here to fight crime and keep people safe. We will begin to rebuild confidence in us as a service by demonstrating action against issues which matter most to Londoners. That is what I am focused on alongside thousands of brilliant officers and staff within the Met.'

Sir Mark (pictured) said he is 'fairly narrow-minded' on the issue, adding that there are 'very few causes policing should be attached to'

Sir Mark's latest ruling comes after he recently banned officers from sporting the 'thin blue line' badge which had been created as a way to honour and remember those who died in the line of duty.

The ban came after the symbol was linked to white nationalism in the US. According to the newspaper, Sir Mark defended the band by saying if he did not 'take a firm line' on what officers could and could not wear.

His view on the issue differs significantly from that of his predecessor, Dame Cressida Dick, who had said it was at each individual officer's discretion if they wanted to take a knee in support of Black Lives Matter.

Under her command officers were initially allowed to take a knee even when they were policing protests - however Dame Cressida later claimed she ordered officers not do so.

She also allowed a police vehicle to be decorated in a rainbow colour scheme to show support for the LGBTQ community.

The Met was also criticised in 2019 after officers were seen dancing and skateboarding with Extinction Rebellion demonstrators at a protest they were meant to be policing. The behavior was later branded as 'unacceptable'.
A toddler is in a serious condition after she was pulled unresponsive from a hotel pool on the Gold Coast.

The three-year-old girl was pulled out of the pool at Treasure Island Holiday Resort on Brisbane Road, Biggera Waters, at 3.30pm on Monday.

It is understood the child had been underwater for as long as seven minutes.

Paramedics rushed the toddler in a serious condition to the Gold Coast University Hospital, a Queensland Ambulance spokesperson said.

The child had been staying at the resort with her family at the time.
Ministers were yesterday accused of ignoring their own expert advisers over the 'unintended consequences' of a proposed trophy hunting ban.

A bar on importing items such as skins, stuffed animals and mounted heads could encourage illegal poaching and lead to a loss of habitats, it is claimed.

But the planned clampdown has won support from animal rights campaigners and celebrities.

Now internal documents released under the Freedom of Information Act show the Government's advisers on the Joint Nature Conservation Committee said there could be 'unintended and perverse consequences for wildlife conservation', and for local communities.

Senior diplomats from five countries in southern Africa wrote to Downing Street last week, saying a ban could seriously damage tourism and wildlife management programmes. They said ministers had excluded the views of the countries most affected by the ban.

Unintended consequences of a proposed ban on trophy hunting could include a loss of habitats, government advisers had said

(Stock Photo) Over 150 scientists also wrote to the Prime Minister and the Environment Secretary accusing them of ignoring scientific evidence

More than 150 scientists also wrote to the Prime Minister and to Environment Secretary Therese Coffey accusing them of ignoring scientific evidence.

The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs consulted the JNCC over the proposed Hunting Trophies Bill.

In an official memo, released following an FOI request, the JNCC said: 'Evidence suggests that well-managed and sustainable trophy hunting plays an important part in biodiversity conservation as it provides both incentives for habitat and species conservation and financial and social benefits to local communities.'

Defra said it stood by the Bill.
The Metropolitan Police has said that the final day of Notting Hill carnival was 'marred by serious violence' after eight people were stabbed in one night.

Detectives had praised the 'positive' and 'good-natured' atmosphere across the weekend but officers were forced into action after the carnival descended into violence on Bank Holiday Monday.

Police said that a 29-year-old man is in a critical condition after he was stabbed in Warfield Road, just off Harrow Road, shortly after 9pm. However, in the lead up to that incident, there were several other stabbings, while one officer was bitten.

A 19-year-old man was stabbed in Ladbroke Grove shortly before 8pm and remains in a serious but stable condition in hospital. Meanwhile, six other men aged 18, 19, 20, 25, 28 and 40 were stabbed in separate incidents. They sustained non life-threatening injuries.

The Met said they made a total of 275 arrests across the two days. On Sunday, there were 110 arrests for offences including possession of offensive weapons, assaults including on police officers, possession of drugs and sexual offences.

A large policing operation was in affect over the two day festival in West London

Police officers attend serious incident on Warfield Road following Notting Hill Carnival

A 29-year-old man is in a critical condition in hospital following the stabbing

The Metropolitan Police has said that the final day of Notting Hill carnival was 'marred by serious violence' after eight people were stabbed in one night. Pictured: Police officers lead a man through the streets of west London

Detectives had praised the 'positive' and 'good-natured' atmosphere across the weekend but officers were forced into action after the carnival descended into violence on Bank Holiday Monday. Pictured: Two ambulances arrive at the scene

Over 2million people attended the Carnival with police confirming they had made hundreds of arrests

Pictured: A Met Police officer holds an evidence bag with a seized weapon in it on the final day of carnival

One man sustained a non-life changing slash wound but turned down help from the emergency services.

Officers also acted quickly to intercept a group who was in the possession of a firearm. They seized the weapon and arrested a man.

On Monday there were a further 165 arrests for a similar range of offences. Police also revealed there were further assaults on cops, including sexual assaults, while the officer who was bitten had to be treated in hospital.

It comes after two days of steel drums, barbecues and flamboyant headdresses, drew to a close last night.

Hundreds of thousands of partygoers massed in Kensington for a sunny 'carnival climax' yesterday, which saw the adults' parade kick off in the morning before a feast of music took over the streets.

Celebrities including Lily Allen, Nick Grimshaw and Idris Elba, who hosted his own DJ set, were spotted enjoying the vibrant annual celebration of Caribbean culture and history.

Council teams are now swarming across west London to sweep up and tidy mounds of rubbish after two million revellers descended en masse for this year's carnival which sadly turned ugly on the second day.

The Metropolitan Police confirmed they had made 275 arrests over the course of the festival

The scene on Warefield road close to Notting Hill after a man was stabbed late last night following the Notting Hill Carnival

The Metropolitan Police have said that the level of disorder yesterday 'marred' the final day

The violence came after two days of steel drums, barbecues and flamboyant headdresses, Notting Hill Carnival drew to a close last night

Canisters of nitrious oxide abandoned amongst rubbish at the site of the 2023 Notting Hill Carnival

The streets of the posh west London suburb are now covered in huge piles of rubbish

Colourfully-costumed revellers paraded through the streets of west London on Monday - the final day of the carnival

Deputy Assistant Commissioner Ade Adelekan, who oversaw the policing operation, said: 'It is regrettable that for a second year in a row, Monday night at Carnival has been marred by serious violence.

'Nobody disputes the significance of Carnival on London's cultural calendar and the overwhelming majority of those who came will have had a positive experience. However, we cannot overlook the stabbings, sexual assaults and attacks on police officers that we have seen.

'As we do following any major operation, we will be reviewing the events of the past two days and giving thorough consideration to what may need to change in future years.

'It is important to recognise the positives that we can take away from the event. I am pleased that by working in close partnership with the event organisers and the stewarding teams, we were able to closely monitor crowd density and intervene in an effective way to prevent any incidents of crushing at peak times.

'I would like to thank all the officers who have worked so hard over the weekend to keep people safe.

'Carnival is a challenging policing environment. Officers were asked to be vigilant and alert but to be approachable, respectful and sensitive at the same time. They did all of that and more and they deserve our recognition and our thanks.'

A general view of the atmosphere at the Notting Hill Carnival yesterday on the final day of festivities

Graffiti adorns the makeshift barricades installed by businesses in the area
Porn star Ron Jeremy is at the center of fresh sexual assault accusations after a negligence lawsuit was filed against an iconic West Hollywood bar.

Two unnmaed women filed a lawsuit against Rainbow Bar & Grill, and its owner Rockin' Horse, Inc., which is accused of 'facilitating Ron Jeremy drugging women's drinks.'

According to the plaintiffs, the bar 'failed in their duty to protect their patrons from injury at the hands of fellow guests' and knowingly allowed the porn star, 70, to assault women in the restrooms.

In the lawsuit seen by Fox News Digital, the accusations read: 'Defendant Rockin' Horse, Inc. and Does 1 through 100, inclusive, knowingly allowed a sexual predator into their bar time and time again and allowed him a dungeon, the employees restroom, for committing heinous sexual acts against Defendants female patrons.'

The two women claim that Jeremy sexually assaulted them at the establishment in 2017.

Porn star Ron Jeremy is at the center of fresh sexual assault accusations after a negligence lawsuit was filed against an iconic West Hollywood bar

Two unnmaed women filed a lawsuit against Rainbow Bar & Grill, and its owner Rockin' Horse, Inc., which is accused of 'facilitating Ron Jeremy drugging women's drinks'

The iconic Sunset Strip bar is also accused of allowing the porn star to use the employees restroom to assault women - and letting him continue despite being aware of previous alleged sexual assaults.

Rainbow Bar also created a general 'dangerous, sexualized, and hostile environment for its female patrons,' and workers would even facilitate 'drugging women's drinks' for Jeremy, according to the suit.

The porn star would alleged ask a bartender to make a 'Ron Jeremy special.'

One Jane Doe described in the lawsuit feeling dizzy after having the drink, being taken into the VIP restroom, where Jeremy 'copulated and then penetrated her.'

In February, Jeremy was committed to a state mental health hospital after being found incompetent to stand trial on numerous rape and sexual assault charges.

The former adult entertainer, 70, was indicted on 30 counts of sexual abuse - after being accused by 21 victims, some of who were as young 15 years old.

Prosecutors allege Jeremy - born Ronald Jeremy Hyatt - restrained some of the women and raped or sodomized them - and had sex with others who were sleeping or unconscious.

But In January, Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Ronald S. Harris ruled that Jeremy was not competent to assist in his defense, according to his attorney, Stuart Goldfarb.

70-year-old Ron Jeremy is said to be suffering from dementia

Harris said the former porn star suffered from 'incurable neurocognitive decline', after medical reports said he has dementia, is 'incoherent', and suffers from hearing loss.

Jeremy was among the biggest names in the adult film industry, appearing in more than 2,000 movies starting in the 1970s. He had been in prison since his arrest in 2020.

His severe dementia has been determined by a review of medical documents and interviews with Jeremy.

The counts against Jeremy included 12 of forcible rape, seven of forcible oral copulation, six of sexual battery, and two of penetration while the victim was asleep or unconscious, according to the Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office.

The alleged offenses took place at night clubs and bars in the Los Angeles area, during a photo shoot, and at Jeremy's home, the District Attorney's office said.

Jeremy was charged with four counts of sexual penetration by a foreign object and two counts of sexual penetration of an unconscious or asleep person.

Porn star Ron Jeremy was declared mentally incompetent to stand trial in Los Angeles on rape and other sex charges

Further charges included one count each of lewd act upon a child under the age of 14 or 15, sodomy by use of force and assault with intent to commit rape.

LA District Attorney George Gascon said Jeremy's alleged sexual assaults happened over the course of more than 23 years and involved 21 victims ranging in age from 15 to 51.

Jeremy is alleged to have sexually assaulted a 15-year-old girl referred to as 'Jane Doe 5' on June 12, 2004, penetrating her with a foreign object, according to the August 19 indictment obtained by DailyMail.com.

Another girl, 17, was allegedly raped in 2008 at a home in the Woodland Hills neighborhood of Los Angeles. She was referred to as 'Jane Doe 22' in the court documents.

Among the first allegations against Jeremy, prosecutors claim he raped a 19-year-old woman during a photo shoot in the San Fernando Valley in October 1996.

The indictment alleges that Jeremy 'unlawfully' had sexual intercourse with 'Jane Doe 19' in 2000 by means 'force, violence, duress, menace or fear of immediate and unlawfully bodily injury.'

Jeremy was also accused of sexually assaulting another woman at a strip club in City of Industry at some point between 2002 and 2003, officials said.

Another woman, 21, went to Jeremy's home where she was allegedly sexually assaulted in 2010. She was referred to as 'Jane Doe 23' in the court documents.
A woman accused of hitting and killing her sister after a roadside argument and then driving off has been committed to face a criminal trial.

Asyai Luk, 22, was charged with dangerous driving causing death and failure to stop and render assistance over the November 2022 hit-run.

She was behind the wheel when her sister, Anong Luk, 24, was dragged and pinned between two vehicles in Melbourne's west.

Luk's lawyer on Monday tried to argue that her charges should be dropped as the incident was a 'freakish occurrence' and an accident that neither sister could have foreseen.

It is alleged Asyai Luk (pictured) was driving an SUV and accelerated when Anong Luk was trying to get inside. She is due to face court on September 26 over her sister's death

Anong Luk (pictured), 24, died when she was pinned between two cars in an alleged hit and run

'She got caught in the door unexpectedly,' defence barrister Peter Morrissey said.

But the prosecution argued she should be committed to stand trial as the 24-year-old died in the context of a heated argument and Luk had sped off with a car door open.

Both sides had differing interpretations of videos from the scene.

Magistrate Brett Sonnet found the videos were 'subject to different interpretations' and decided Luk should stand trial.

'Ms Luk you're directed to stand trial in the County Court,' he told the court on Tuesday.

He asked her how she pleaded to the three charges, and she responded 'not guilty' from the front row of the court room.

Her bail was changed to include that she must not drive a motor vehicle, not leave Australia and cannot speak to prosecution witnesses.

She will next face the County Court on September 26.
A married South Dakota woman admitted she made up a rape report in Florida to get a free STD test after cheating on her husband - when police discovered she bought the rope she said she was tied up with from Walmart.

Renee Dawn Skoglund, 30, will spend two years under community control - a form of house arrest, eight years on probation and will have to pay a fine of more than $17,000 - the cost of the investigation into her fake claim.

STD tests cost as little as $24 in Hillsborough County, Florida, where Skoglund reported on March 8 that she'd been the victim of sexual battery.

According to 911 audio that was released, she claimed she pulled over to the side of a road with car trouble, a man tied up her hands and feet, put a towel on her head, shoved her in the car and raped her.

But cops became suspicious when she was too specific about the type of rope used to bind her - one which was sold at a local Walmart, where cops requested security footage and spotted Skoglund herself buying the cord.

Renee Dawn Skoglund, 30, will spend two years under a form of house arrest, eight years on probation and face a fine of over $17,000

Skoglund was caught on surveillance footage buying the rope she used to fake a sexual assault

'Following this discovery, detectives recovered video from multiple places Mrs. Skoglund visited in the time surrounding the attack, refuting her initial statements,' the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office said in a statement.

'She attempted to change her statements before eventually admitting to fabricating the entire incident.'

In a bizarre twist, it was then revealed that then-married Skoglund fabricated her assault in an attempt to get a free STD test after she had a one night stand.

'She had consensual sexual intercourse with an individual in Hillsborough County,' prosecutor Jessica Couvertier said in court, FOX 13 reported.

'Then she felt guilty about it because of her marital status, and she wanted to get checked out for a sexually transmitted disease.'

Skoglund was arrested and charged in Sioux Falls on March 10 with misuse of a 911 system, false report of a crime and fabricating physical evidence.

Her downfall was when she became specific about the type of rope used, one that police knew was sold at a local Walmart

Skoglund pleaded guilty to a shocking scheme in which she falsified a rape report in Florida in an attempt to obtain a free STD test after she'd cheated on her husband

She now owes a total of $17,245.26 to the local sheriff's office for the money they spent on investigating her claim.

'This case is truly disheartening,' Sheriff Chad Chronister said in a press release after Skoglund was charged.

'There are far too many victims faced with this type of trauma. This woman took advantage of our 911 emergency line and diverted attention from actual victims who need the viable resources available in these investigative scenarios.'
Aboriginal elders living in remote Australia claim the Voice is the least of their worries and want more pressing issues facing their communities dealt with first.

As Prime Minister Anthony Albanese prepares to address an official Yes vote event in Adelaide on Wednesday, Aboriginal leaders in far north Queensland have questioned whether the Voice will benefit the everyday lives of Indigenous Australians.

In remote Cape York communities such as Aurunkun, Mapoon and Weipa, residents are more worried about daily struggles.

Drinking water supply, chronic health problems, community tensions, housing shortages, and access to basic services are among their biggest concerns.

Despite Cape York Partnership founder Noel Pearson being a prominent campaigner of the Yes vote, the Voice campaign has gained little traction in local communities.

Traditional owner in Napranum Dr Fiona Wirrer-George (pictured) says the Voice is the last of people's worries in remote Cape York communities in far north Queensland

As the Yes campaign ramps up, the Voice yet to gain much traction in many remote communities. Pictured is Prime Minister Anthony Albanese flanked by Yes supporters

Dr Fiona Wirrer-George, a traditional owner in Napranum south of Weipa, believes the Voice narrative needs to be restructured to appeal to remote communities.

'A different kind of narrative preoccupies the mindset of Western Cape mob,' she told Cairns Post.

READ MORE: Julie Bishop's dire warning if the No Vote wins Julie Bishop (left) hit the streets of Perth on Monday with Senator Penny Wong (centre) and Yes campaign director Dean Parkin (right) to drum up support for the Voice Advertisement

'I don't think it (the Voice) is forefront. It should be.'

Many other community leaders across Cape York remain unconvinced about the Voice.

'Why would I care? The Voice isn't going to make any difference,' asked one prominent community leader.

Locals shared similar sentiments.

'People have just switched off a little bit.' a children's service worker said.

Another added: 'Most of my clients are more worried about day-to-day survival.'

Others are skeptical whether the Voice will achieve its aim of closing the gap between the Indigenous people living in regional, rural and remote areas and white Australians.

Mr Pearson insists Closing the Gap imperatives would be addressed by the Voice.

'This is the message of the Voice  by having a voice, we will be responsible for closing the gap,' he said.

'This is a critical insight for those concerned with Aboriginal policy at the highest levels and at the grassroots in claiming the right to self determination. We are claiming the right to take responsibility.'

On the problems facing the Indigenous Australians and closing the gap, Mr Pearson recently conceded that he was in 'furious agreement' with lead No campaign leaders, senator Jacinta Price and Warren Mundine.

He revealed the group diverged when it came to agreeing on a solution.

'(Senator Price) just doesn't believe that a structure like the Voice is going to be a solution,' he said.

'But the problem is, she and any other Indigenous parliamentarian, cannot fulfil the functions of a Voice, no matter how good they are.

Dr Fiona Wirrer-George (pictured) says the The Voice isn't at the forefront of many Cape York locals living in remote communities

Australians living in remote Indigenous communities are more daily struggles such as drinking water supply, chronic health problems and accessing basic services (stock image)

'We have had a lot of Indigenous politicians now, not at least in the Northern Territory. We've had 20 plus years of politicians representing communities.'

Mr Pearson also acknowledged that there was more work to be done to convince Australians to vote Yes.

Mr Albanese will need to convince at least 1.7 million undecided voters for the Voice referendum to win, leaked documents have revealed.

Volunteers for the Yes campaign will target women, young people, multicultural communities and soft voters to reverse unfavourable polling trends.

The latest polling figures show the Voice to Parliament is on track to be defeated, with the referendum expected to be called on October 14.
Anthony Albanese has urged Qantas to 'look after their customers' amid a storm of criticism over the national carrier's conduct in the wake of the Covid pandemic.

The Prime Minister told ABC Radio WA on Tuesday that customers must be given a choice of a refund or credit if a service is not delivered.

'They need to look after their customers, and there's no question that needs to occur,' Mr Albanese said.

'When people have made bookings in good faith, then they need to either have that money returned or they need to be able to use those bookings in order to make future flights.'

Mr Albanese also insisted there was nothing unusual in the government's decision not to grant Qatar Airways an additional 21 flights into Australia.

'This is business as usual,' he said.

'When I was minister there were a range of non-approvals given as well, based on the evidence which was there, which is the decision for the transport minister. She's made the decision just like [Michael] McCormack made the decision,' he said.

It comes after the airline conceded some $470million worth of flight credits issued to customers during Covid have not yet been redeemed.

Qantas boss Alan Joyce faced a grilling by senators over the amount of flight credits Qantas has across all its operations

Last Thursday Qantas boss Alan Joyce said Qantas owed $370 million in unused flights that were racked up by would-be passengers unable to use tickets or denied frequent flyer use during the pandemic.

Senator Sheldon noted that this figure excluded flight credits for Jetstar and overseas Qantas passengers.

All remaining unused credits will expire on December 31 this year.

Qantas last week announced it had delivered a record $2.5billion profit only a year after suffering a deep loss, with Mr Joyce delivering his last financial result before finishing up as CEO in November and handing over to his chief financial officer Vanessa Hudson.

The full-year underlying profit before tax of $2.465billion marked a major turnaround from a $1.859billion loss for 2021-22 covering a period before Australia reopened its borders to international travellers.

The Albanese government knocked back a bid by Qatar to operate an additional 21 services out of Australia per week after lobbying from the national carrier Qantas

'There's lots of criticism of corporate profits at the moment, due in large part to the cost of living pressures happening in parallel and we understand that,' Mr Joyce said.

'In Qantas' case, we have put a lot of thought and balancing to the needs of those who rely on us and who we rely on.'

Revenue doubled to $19.8billion in the year to June 30, up from $9.1billion, and surpassing the $17.97billion level of 2018-19, before the pandemic.

Labor is also copping flak this week for refusing a request from Qatar Airways to increase its services in and out of Australia.

READ MORE: Why Qantas CEO Alan Joyce's grilling by Labor senator Tony Sheldon was deeply personal Advertisement

The Albanese government knocked back a bid by Qatar to operate an additional 21 services out of Australia per week after lobbying from the national carrier.

Virgin Australia boss Jayne Hrdlicka said allowing more Qatar flights in and out of the country could bring down airfares by 40 per cent and would be a huge boost to the tourism industry.

She hit back at comments from Assistant Treasurer Stephen Jones who suggested bringing prices of flights down would make it 'unsustainable' for Qantas.

'We can drive prices down but if we drive them down to a level where it's actually unsustainable to run an airline, instead of having two carriers we will design our markets in a way which will make it unsustainable for the existing Australian-based carrier,' Mr Jones told reporters on Monday morning.

Mr Albanese's relationship with Mr Joyce has come under close public scrutiny after it was revealed the Prime Minister's son Nathan had been granted access to the exclusive Chairman's Lounge.
Australians living in retirement typically stopped working when they were 56 but cost of living pressures are expected to delay the decision to stop work for the next lot of retirees.

Baby Boomers and those from the Silent Generation are now hardly the only retirees with the oldest members of Generation X this year turning 59.

New Australian Bureau of Statistics data released on Tuesday showed that those already in retirement stopped working when they were 56 years and four months old, on average.

The snapshot for the 2020-21 financial year showed an increase from 55 years and five months in 2018-19.

But when it came to the 140,000 Australians who retired in 2020, the average age was actually 64 years and four months.

For men it was 65 years and five months, compared with 63 years and eight months for women, who made up 56 per cent of all retirees.

Those born from 1957 onwards have to wait until 67 to get the age pension.

That means those retiring now in their mid-sixties have to rely on their superannuation for the first few years of retirement.

SuperRatings chief executive Kirby Rappell said cost of living pressures were likely to see Australians increasingly delay their retirement, even if the average retirement saving balances increased.

'I don't think it's getting any easier for people to figure out when they are going to retire,' he told Daily Mail Australia.

New Australian Bureau of Statistics data released on Tuesday showed that those already in retirement stopped working when they were 56 years and four months old, on average (stock image)

'Despite people's balances rising, as people come to terms with the true cost of retirement, we're seeing more people starting to retire a bit later.'

READ MORE: How much super you really need for retirement Australians now need to have $595,000 in superannuation savings to retire comfortably, and that amount will only increase as age pension spending declines in the next four decades Advertisement

The Association of Superannuation Funds of Australia recommends savings of $595,000 for a comfortable retirement for those who have paid off their home.

But most Australians only have enough for a modest retirement - with tax office figures showing men aged 60 to 64 had a median super account balance of $211,996, compared with $158,806 for women of the same age group.

Australia's pool of retirees grew to 4.1million in 2020-21, up from 3.8million in 2018-19, the ABS data showed.

During the next five years, 673,000 Australians are intending to retire, planning to do so aged 65 years and six months.

That's a big increase from the 552,000 intending to retire in the next five years in 2018-19.

Farmers have the oldest retirement of 67 years and 10 months, compared with 63 years and seven months for miners who typically earn a lot more money.

Media and IT professionals had the youngest retirement age of 62 years and one month.

Mr Rappell said younger Australians really needed to keep an eye on their super balances and seek financial advice if they wanted to retire with dignity.

'Most people would prefer not to be modest and I think for most people, it may not be comfortable,' he said.

'If you start earlier, you're going to have a greater influence on that outcome to get you more up to that comfortable level.'

Treasury's Intergenerational Report, released last week, predicted spending on the aged pension would decline from 2.3 per cent of gross domestic product now to 2 per cent by 2062-63, as Australians were forced to become increasingly reliant on their super.

'Spending on age and service pensions is projected to fall as a share of GDP despite the ageing population, with superannuation increasingly funding peoples retirement,' it said.

SuperRatings chief executive Kirby Rappell said cost of living pressures were likely to see Australians increasingly delay their retirement, even if the average retirement saving balances increased (pictured is a Woolworths in Sydney's east)

Compulsory super contributions increased to 11 per cent on July 1 and will go up by half a percentage point increments every year until they reach 12 per cent in July 2025.

Employer contributions have been mandatory since 1992 but from July 2025, the tax on balances above $3million is doubling to 30 per cent, up from 15 per cent for all other contributions.

That's based on Labor winning the next election and getting its legislation through Parliament beforehand.

But teal independent MP Allegra Spender has reservations about the federal government's plan to also tax unrealised gains.

'The idea of taxing unrealised capital gains, I think, is bad tax policy to be honest,' she told ABC Insiders on Sunday. 'It's really concerning to me.'
President Joe Biden may have used pseudonyms in nearly 5,400 emails, electronic records and documents when he was vice president, a bombshell letter from the National Archives and Records Administration reveals.

The trove of communications was confirmed after the Southeastern Legal Foundation (SLF) filed a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) for emails connected to aliases allegedly used by Biden, including Robin Ware, Robert L. Peters, and JRB Ware.

Republicans have been demanding the release of the emails they say could show Biden used the names to discuss foreign business with his son and share information on countries where he was doing deals.

The White House has insisted Biden was never in business with his son, and vice presidents and high-level government officials often use pseudonyms to prevent being inundated with spam and emails from the public.

At the time, the Obama administration dismissed criticism the communications were 'secret' because they were all archived.

But the sheer volume of emails raises questions over whether then-VP Biden broke the 'absolute wall' he said he maintained between the 'the personal and private, and the government'.

Emails from Hunter's laptop also reveal business partners referred to Biden as the 'big guy'.

NARA has acknowledged holding around 5,400 emails, electronic records, and documents suggesting Joe Biden used email pseudonyms while Obama's VP

Staffers used Biden's other address Robert.L.Peters@pci.gov to send a message about meeting then-Ukrainian president Petro Poroshenko. Hunter was copied in on that email

Hunter also sent a message to Robin Ware (another of Biden's email pseudonyms) pushing for John McGrail to get a job in the legal department of the Treasury

The SLF submitted the FOIA request in June 2022 and the results appear to confirm that Biden was using the emails connected to the aliases.

Biden used various private email addresses from which he sometimes sent, received and forwarded government correspondence.

The names are all pseudonyms that Biden was known to use while he served as Vice President under Barack Obama from 2009 to 2017 and were used on emails that were about both official and family business.

The Southeastern Legal Foundation took legal action against NARA on Monday to secure the records' release.

The Foundation alleges that the documents might potentially demonstrate instances where President Biden forwarded government information and discussed government matters with his son, Hunter Biden, together with other individuals.

'All too often, public officials abuse their power by using it for their personal or political benefit. When they do, many seek to hide it. The only way to preserve governmental integrity is for NARA to release Biden's nearly 5,400 emails to SLF and thus the public.

'The American public deserves to know what is in them,' Kimberly Hermann, SLF general counsel, said in a statement.

The Southeastern Legal Foundation also accuses NARA of using delaying tactics ever since the initial FOIA request was filed more than 14 months ago.

No specific emails have been provided despite NARA acknowledging their existence.

On some emails Biden's daily schedule would be sent to his private email address, Robert.L.Peters@pci.gov while copying in son, Hunter

'We have performed a search of our collection for Vice Presidential records related to your [June 9, 2022] request and have identified approximately 5,138 email messages, 25 electronic files and 200 pages of potentially responsive records that must be processed in order to respond to your request,' Stephannie Oriabure, director of NARA's archival operations division, wrote to the Southeastern Legal Foundation on in June 2022, the lawsuit revealed.

Earlier this month, Kentucky Republican James Comer, Chairman of the House Oversight Committee, demanded unredacted records from NARA, that similarly showed President Biden's use of a pseudonym during his vice presidency.

On that occasion, the purpose was to look into the role the former vice president played in his son's international business dealings.

Previously released emails from Hunter Biden's laptop indicated President Biden used the email address 'Robert.L.Peters@pci.gov' during his time as Vice President.

The emails also revealed correspondence between his aide and Hunter Biden over Joe Biden's daily schedule.

For at least four weeks in 2016, a worker in the Office of the Vice President, John Flynn, would send Biden his daily schedule to his private email address, Robert.L.Peters@pci.gov while copying in Hunter.

Hunter named his young son after his brother Beau. They attended the July 4 firework display at the White House with Joe and First Lady Jill Biden

There were 10 such e-mails which were copied to Hunter between May 18 and June 15, 2016.

The Robert Peters e-mail address used a @pci.gov domain. The service had been labeled as problematic by the DNS Institute's Domain Name System security report in 2020.

One email from Flynn to being sent to Joe, a.k.a Robert Peters, from May 2016 which was also cc'd to Hunter schedules '8.45am prep for 9am phonecall with Pres Poroshenko' who was the Ukrainian president.

At the time, Hunter was being paid $83,333 a month to sit on the board of corrupt Ukrainian energy company Burisma Holdings Ltd.

He had started working for Burisma in 2014 and finally departed two months after his father left the office of vice president.

Just months earlier, in December 2015, Biden had threatened Poroshenko that he would withhold $1 billion in US aid unless he fired Ukraine's top prosecutor Viktor Shokin, who was investigating the owner of Burisma, Mykola Zlochevsky.

Shokin was widely accused of corruption and removed from office in March 2016.

Emails obtained by Hunter Biden's laptop show Joe Biden would use three pseudonyms: 'Robin Ware,' 'Robert L. Peters' and 'JRB ware' when emailing his two sons, Hunter, left and Beau, right. The pair are pictured at Obama's Inaugural Parade in January 2009

State Department officials are said to have attempted to raise concerns with directly with Biden about Hunter's involvement with Burisma but the complaints were rebuffed.

Another forwarded email from Joe Biden using one of his alias private emails, RobinWare456@gmail.com, saw him write to both Hunter and his brother Beau, who was the Delaware attorney general, on March 26, 2012.

The forwarded e-mail was from Deputy Secretary of State (and now current Secretary of State) Antony Blinken.

The email was from the US Ambassador to Ukraine John Tefft: 'Beau visited Kyev [Ukraine] on the Friday and gave a talk on corruption at the Hyatt . . . then attended reception at the residence where he met many young Ukrainian lawyers. We received many compliments on his presentation and for simply a frank discussion of a problem that still bedevils this country.'

Hunter started working for Burisma Holdings, the Ukrainian gas company, in 2014.

He earned $83,333-a-month from Burisma until two months after Biden left office.

He was referred to as 'the big guy' and described in an email from a Ukrainian executive at Burisma which suggested he'd gotten access to him through Hunter.

It raised serious questions because the executive was also being investigated by a Ukrainian prosecutor who was ousted after Joe leveraged $1billion in American aide money to get him out.

President Biden has in the past denied ever offering access to him or the White House to any of Hunter's business associates.

Biden has long claimed there was complete separation between his family's business activities and his vice presidential responsibilities but Rep. Comer said that evidence appears to suggest otherwise.

'Joe Biden has stated there was 'an absolute wall' between his family's foreign business schemes and his duties as Vice President, but evidence reveals that access was wide open for his family's influence peddling,' Comer said in a statement on August 17.

'The National Archives must provide these unredacted records to further our investigation into the Biden family's corruption,' he added.

One concerning May 2016 email referenced in Comers letter and previously reported by DailyMail.com shows White House staffers sent Joes schedule, including a call with then-Ukrainian president Petro Poroshenko, to Joes secret email Robert L. Peters.

The staffer, John Flynn, also inexplicably copied Hunter, who was working for allegedly corrupt Ukrainian gas firm Burisma at the time, on the email.

White House staffers copied Hunter on a total of 10 emails to Joes alias addresses, records from his laptop show.

Joe and Hunter appeared to use the then-VPs secret email to discuss government business in another incident in June 2014.

Hunter used his Rosemont Seneca consultancy email address to write to his father on June 23, 2014 about the employment of then-deputy White House counsel John McGrail.

Before you fill position pls talk to me  J. McGrail very much wants to serve as detail fr treasury, Hunter wrote.

Re Johnny call me right away Dad, Joe wrote back from the email robinware456@gmail.com.

McGrail was promoted to VPs counsel the following year, then got his desired move to the Treasury as Senior Counsel in January 2017. He is currently Counselor to the Under Secretary for Domestic Finance at the department, according to his LinkedIn account.

Senators Chuck Grassley and Ron Johnson have been asking for unredacted records from NARA regarding Joes alias emails since 2021.

Republican Senators Ron Johnson and Chuck Grassley along with Rep. James Comer have been putting pressure on the National Archives to release Joe Biden's emails linked to addresses with pseudonyms

Anthony Blinken, then Biden's National Security Advisor also used the Robin Ware email to send a message to his boss about a talk Beau gave in Kyiv in 2012

Blinken wrote to Biden to say journalist Richard Ben Cramer had talked about Joe Biden's leadership right up to the moment of his death in 2013

Prosecutor Alexander Mackler used Joe Biden's secret email address Robinware356@gmail.com in a note expressing his condolences at Beau's death which he also sent to other members of the Biden family

In their letters they cited the Presidential Records Act which requires POTUS to provide copies of all communications involving government business, whether on personal email addresses or not, to the National Archives.

Comer has now also joined the push. In his August 17 letter to NARA, he pointed out that the emails challenge Joes previous claim that while VP he had an absolute wall between the personal and private, and the government.

Evidence reveals that access was wide open for his familys influence peddling, Comer said in a statement last week.

We already have evidence of then-Vice President Biden speaking, dining, and having coffee with his sons foreign business associates. We also know that Hunter Biden and his associates were informed of then-Vice President Bidens official government duties in countries where they had a financial interest.

The National Archives must provide these unredacted records to further our investigation into the Biden familys corruption.

Other emails show Secretary of State Antony Blinken wrote to Joe using his alias addresses while acting as National Security Advisor to then-VP Joe.

Blinken forwarded a March 26 2012 email from Ukraine ambassador John Tefft to Joes Robin Ware address, describing a speech given by Beau to Ukrainian members of parliament in Kyiv on the topic of corruption.
Daily Mail Australia is not suggesting Erin Patterson is responsible for the deaths

Do you know more? Email tips@dailymail.com

Medical expert said toxin is only detectable for 48 hours

Forensic samples taken after a deadly mushroom lunch left three people dead may not have been taken in time to give proper results, it is feared.

Gail and Don Patterson, along with Gail's sister Heather Wilkinson, died after eating a beef wellington lunch at Leongatha, in Victoria's Gippsland region, on July 29.

Ms Wilkinson's husband Ian also ate the meal and remains fighting for life in hospital.

The two couples had attended a lunch at the Pattersons' former daughter-in-law Erin Patterson, who claims she also ate the meal but escaped serious illness.

Leading toxicologist Dr Michael Robertson revealed the toxin found in death cap mushrooms are only detectable for about 48 hours after ingestion, with growing fears the samples weren't taken in time.

'The laboratory knows what it is looking for, death cap mushrooms, but that's not something we see routinely in Australia and the method of analysis is far from routine,' Dr Robertson told the Herald Sun on Thursday.

'Those early samples are very important because they, particularly any urine samples, would help prove it was death cap mushrooms.'

Gail and Don Patterson, along with Gail's sister Heather Wilkinson, died after eating a beef wellington lunch at Leongatha, in Victoria's Gippsland region, on July 29

The death cap mushrooms police believe were ingested by the lunch guests would likely have been absorbed by their livers and then entered their bloodstreams

Leading toxicologist Dr Michael Robertson (pictured) revealed the toxin found in death cap mushrooms are only detectable for about 48 hours after ingestion

The toxicologist said detectives may have to rely on samples taken during the first two days Ms Patterson's lunch guests were in hospital.

However, he said it was likely doctors had taken blood samples from the lunch guests to monitor their kidney and liver function.

'But once they were transferred to Melbourne hospitals, have those samples been kept or thrown out?' he continued.

'They may well have been discarded because the seriousness was not realised by the hospital and they were no longer patients at that hospital.'

Dr Robertson said hospitals only kept samples for a few days unless further tests were required or they were contacted by police.

It's understood detectives were only alerted several days after the lunch when Ms Patterson and Ms Wilkinson began to deteriorate in hospital.

The women died on August 4, while Don Patterson passed away the following day.

Dr Robertson said he was confident further samples would have been taken at Melbourne hospitals but that they would 'significantly' less useful to detectives.

It could be weeks before detectives receive the results of toxicology reports.

It's understood that the police have called in two mushroom experts from Melbournes Royal Botanic Gardens to help them identify any fungi that may have been used in Ms Patterson's lunch.

Ian Wilkinson and Heather Wilkinson (both pictured) became severely ill after they ate wild mushrooms. Mrs Wilkinson died earlier this month while her husband remains in hospital

It comes as Dr Robertson revealed the unbearable symptoms of poisonous mushrooms - and how patients cruelly start to feel better before their body begins to fully shut down.

He told Channel Nine's Under Investigation, victims usually start to feel unwell several hours after ingesting death cap mushrooms.

'We've heard about the violent vomiting and diarrhoea and that first phase can be quite debilitating in itself,' he said.

He said the victim then starts to feel better and may believe the worst is over.

But even once the toxic matter leaves the body, it is still slowly shutting down.

'It's one of those toxins that gets into your system,' he said.

'It gets absorbed into the bloodstream, it then gets transported to the liver and absorbed. The body doesn't break this toxin down.

'We've got to get rid of it usually in the urine but also in the bile, and the bile duct drops bile back into the intestines.

'It's triggering basically the death of the liver cells.'

Dr Robertson said it was possible the lunch guests entered comas.

'It would've been horrible if they remained conscious,' he said.

'They may have gone into a coma, if they remained conscious certainly that first day would've been absolutely horrific.'

Gail and Don Patterson died after eating the mushrooms

Ms Patterson has claimed the lethal lunch was made with a mixture of button mushrooms from a supermarket chain and dried mushrooms from an Asian grocery store in Melbourne.

She then portioned the meal onto plates and allowed her guests to pick their own.

Ms Patterson said she took the last remaining plate and ate a serving, later handing the leftovers to hospital toxicologists for examination.

She said her children also ate the beef wellington the following day, but with the mushrooms removed. Ms Patterson's estranged husband Simon was also invited to the lunch but pulled out at the last minute.

Victoria Police's Homicide Squad is investigating the deaths with Ms Patterson a person of interest in the investigation as she cooked the fatal lunch.

Daily Mail Australia is not suggesting Erin Patterson is responsible for the deaths.
A family's beloved pet has been stolen and drowned in a 'barbaric' act that has outraged a local community and kickstarted a hunt for the 'coward' responsible.

Tiger Tim, a four-year-old tabby male, was seen in the Swan River last Thursday after going missing from his home at Tenth Ave in Inglewood, Perth, in mid August.

When RSPCA rangers recovered his body beside a jetty the following morning, 5km from his home, they found a house brick tied to his neck.

That has sparked a public plea for information to catch whoever is behind Tiger Tim's death.

A family's beloved pet has been stolen and drowned in a 'barbaric' act that has outraged a local community and kickstarted a hunt for the 'coward' responsible

When RSPCA rangers recovered Tiger Tim's body from the Swan River last Friday, 5km from his home, they found a house brick tied to his neck

RSPCA inspector Hayley Wirth (pictured) described the cat's killing as 'wicked, cowardly and callous' and urged the public to come forward with any information

'Someone has deliberately driven Tiger Tim to this location, tied a brick to his neck and thrown him in the river,' RSPCA inspector Hayley Wirth said in an RSPCA statement.

'What a wicked, cowardly and callous thing to do to such a defenceless, well-loved creature. Tiger Tim was an important member of his family and will be sadly missed.

'That is a serious criminal offence, and I am asking for the publics help to find out who committed it.

'Tiger Tims death is the fault of the perpetrator who committed a callous and unlawful act of animal cruelty.'

After Ms Wirth had the dead cat's microchip checked she went to his home address to break the bad news to his owners.

She then noticed a lost cat poster in the owners car.

The devastated owners had been desperately searching for him for two weeks.

The maximum penalty for an animal cruelty conviction is a $50,000 fine and five years in prison.

While the local council has no CCTV footage, the riverfront area where Tiger Tim was found at Bayswater is well used, especially by local off-lead dog walkers.

It is also close to the Eric Singleton Bird Sanctuary.

Im hoping someone saw something of note that they can pass on through our Cruelty Hotline,' Ms Wirth said.

On social media animal lovers were devastated by the RSPCA's post about Tiger Tim's cruel end.

Tiger Tim, a beloved family pet, went missing from Inglewood, Perth in mid August and was found drowned in the Swan River two weeks later

Tiger Tim was found next to a jetty, at the end of Memorial Drive, Bayswater last Friday

'I have no words except to say how heartbroken the treatment of this dear animal has left me,' one local woman wrote.

'How utterly barbaric,' said another.

'I hope whoever did this is found and held accountable.'

Anyone with information is asked to contact the RSPCA WA 24-hour Cruelty Hotline on 1300 278 358 or online at rspcawa.org.au.
A man has been charged with child sex offences after a teenage girl was allegedly sexually assaulted in a toilet block in a Sydney park.

Detectives launched a manhunt after a 14-year-old girl reported she was allegedly sexually assaulted by an unknown man at Pole Depot Park in Penshurst in the city's south on Monday.

Police attended the park a short time later and established a crime scene.

Following extensive inquiries, detectives attended a nearby home in the afternoon and arrested Billy Smith, 46.

Police will allege Smith, who was on parole for a separate matter, raped the teenager while filming the assault.

Billy Smith, 46, (pictured) is pictured being arrested by police

Smith allegedly sexually assaulted a teenage girl in Pole Depot Park (pictured) in Penshurst on Monday

NSW Police on Tuesday released a photo of Smith donning tradie gear and handcuffs while he was being escorted away by officers.

He was taken to Kogarah Police Station and charged with several offences.

Producing child abuse material, aggravated sexual intercourse child aged under-16 and using a child aged over-14 to make child abuse material were among the charges.

He was also charged with breaching a prohibition order relating to the parole matter.

Smith spent the night in custody and appeared in Sutherland Local Court on Tuesday, where he was formally refused bail.

He will remain behind bars until his next court appearance in Downing Centre Local Court on October 26.
The former Wuhan University student who was arrested over a shooting at the University of North Carolina rambled on social media about bullies, 'tattletales' and being overworked in the months before the fatal ordeal.

Suspect Tailei Qi is a physics PhD student at UNC - and was detained after gunfire erupted on the first day of school. A faculty member was shot and killed, police confirmed.

He was seen being handcuffed around a mile away from the campus after an active shooter alert was issued on Monday.

During a press conference on Monday evening, investigators said that they had not yet discovered a motive behind the shooting. Officials also confirmed that no charges had yet been brought against Qi.

They have not confirm the identity of the deceased member of staff.

But a series of concerning social media posts have been unearthed, in which Qi complained about his UNC colleagues and slammed bullies at the school.

Police issued this mugshot as a 'person of interest' in the current active 'armed and dangerous person' situation. Suspect Tailei Qi is a physics PhD student at UNC - and was detained after gunfire erupted on the first day of school. A professor was shot and killed, police confirmed

Tailei Qi can be seen in an image provided to WRAL sitting on the floor near a property around a mile away from the campus, wearing a dark colored shirt and glasses

The graduate student previously studied at Wuhan University in 2015, and was studying at the Department of Applied Physical Sciences. He also gained a master's in material science in 2021 from Louisiana State University.

Qi wrote on July 31: 'Would like to make some new friends. I am a second-year PhD student, interested in nanoparticle synthesis, optical trapping, self-assembly, spectra analysis, and ML.

'A bit stupid in daily trifles, very enthusiastic talking about research. Reach me if inerest [sic].'

He often complained about his PI - or Principal Investigator - which is the common name for the head of the laboratory in a research center.

It's unclear if the deceased professor shot dead on Monday previously taught Qi.

In one tweet from October 31, 2022, he wrote: 'Both the group of people to say I am lazy and that to prove me working hard instead of telling me that are trying to consume my privacy.

'I judge their motivation is only to tell my PI then control me by taletelling.'

On August 18 last year, he wrote: 'Just have a talk with my PI and get his promise. He should have more experience to handle with these girls and tattletales.

'Then, we can just get ourselves out of these stupid topic. Let's just focus our attention on nature. I won't change anything if not necessary.'

He also complained about being tired from the hours he worked.

Footage shows the suspected assailant being put into the back of a police car by officers after being apprehended. Police have now issued an 'all clear' message

On November 12, he said: 'Last semester I walk 80+ hours per week and I feel relaxing and energetic. Now I only work 60+ hours per week and I feel tired.

'Just because I spend too much time to persuade myself that I work just out of interests instead of to show others I am working.'

In another tweet from July 18 last year, he said: 'Just feel my privacy was insulted.

'When I work, I will think I was showing the boss I am working instead of interests, devaluing the meaning of my work. That's so disgusting.

'Self-respect block me from working. Then it takes pains to convince myself what I do is just because I like.'

And he also complained about being overworked and 'insincere' friends.

Qi wrote on May 30: 'These kind of people may be a good man actually, but might not be a sincere friend. For a Phd student, pay much attention to working time every day is really childish...

'I know many people want to me to show them working and working, but no...that's not human at all.'

The alleged shooter also complained about bullying in the US.

He wrote: 'Bully in America seems to be a problem. It often comes with people not stopping them at the first time. Explanation is not a solution but makes them feel others will plead them every time they raise a problem, making them voyeur to find an excuse day and night.'

During the lockdown on Monday, the university repeatedly sent alerts urging campus community members to remain sheltered in place.

Video taken at the scene shows students jumping from windows at the university as the shooting unfolded

About two hours after the first alert went out, officers were still arriving in droves, with about 50 police vehicles at the scene and helicopters circling over the school.

It took about an hour and a half to lift the lockdown after the arrest because authorities were making sure they had the right suspect in custody.

The building where gunfire broke out is a stones throw from the schools iconic Bell Tower and just doors down from the store that sells students books and other merchandise.

Students were seen jumping from windows during the panic.

Classes started at UNC, the nations first public university, a week ago. The university, with about 20,000 undergraduate students and 12,000 graduate students, canceled Tuesday classes.

Friends of the alleged shooter said that he seemed 'nice' and was 'very quiet' when they studied together.

Ayden Scott told WRAL: 'I would have never guessed that he would be the kind of person who'd could possibly be capable of this kind of thing. He was always very quiet.'

'Every single time he would talk to me, he seemed very nice. When I saw his face in the reports online, I was beyond shocked.'

In a message from Chancellor Kevin Guskiewicz of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill confirmed the loss of a staff member in the shooting.

His message said: 'I am grieved to report that one of our faculty members was killed in this shooting.

'We are waiting for confirmation that the next of kin has been contacted before we share more information.

Footage of the scene showed staff and students draped in their chemistry coats being led out of the building as dozens of cops swarmed the campus

Tailei Qi, who graduated from Wuhan University in 2015, has been pictured as someone UNC police want to speak to in connection with the incident

'I am devastated and saddened by todays shooting in one of our campus buildings, a place where we conduct our important work of teaching, mentoring and research every day.

'This shooting damages the trust and safety that we so often take for granted on our campus.

'We will work to rebuild that trust and safety. Our hearts are with the family of our fellow faculty member, those who are personally connected to the victim and those traumatized by this senseless act of violence.'

Last month Qi shared a paper that he had written on optical binding on LinkedIn, which was published in his name as well as two others  including his adviser.

Prior to his studies at UNC and LSU, Qi was a research assistant for almost two years at the Southern University of Science and Technology in Guangdong, China, and a researcher at the Suzhou Advanced materials Research Institute.

He graduated from Wuhan University with a minor in Business Administration and Management, as well as a Bachelor of Science in Physics.
One theory suggested that Niemann could have used anal beads to cheat

The two players had alleged Niemann cheated during a top tournament

Chess grandmaster Hans Niemann has officially been cleared of outrageous allegations that he used vibrating anal beads to cheat, after it was revealed that he and two top rivals have resolved their legal dispute on the controversy outside of court.

The American player, already a chess prodigy at just 20, sued Norway's Magnus Carlsen, currently the world's top ranked chess player, and another highly-ranked player, Hikaru Nakamura, for defamation.

He was seeking an eyewatering $100 million in the lawsuit, filed in a federal court in Missouri, which claimed that Nakamura and Carlsen had ruined his career with allegations that he had cheated in ranked matches.

The feud came after Niemann, a self-taught player born in San Francisco who has been playing chess since he was eight, beat Carlsen in a prestigious match last September in St. Louis, Missouri, at the Sinquefield Cup tournament, shattering a 53-match winning streak.

Carlsen withdrew from the tournament and later claimed Niemann had cheated, which he denied.

'Do any fair play checking you want, I dont care because I know that Im clean,' Niemann furiously said in an interview after his win.

Chess grandmaster Hans Niemann (pictured) has officially been cleared of allegations made by a rival that he used vibrating anal beads to cheat

Norway's Magnus Carlsen (pictured at the 44th Chess Olympiad in 2022), currently the world's top ranked chess player, accused Niemann of cheating

He added that he'd be happy to play a game of chess while naked: 'They want me to strip fully naked? Ill do it. I dont care because I know that Im clean and Im willing to subject myself to what you want me to play.'

A week later, Carlsen refused to play against Niemann in an online match, instead opting to resign in one move.

Niemann countered in the defamation lawsuit, which was dismissed in June by a US federal judge, claiming that Carlsen paid another grandmaster 300 to shout 'Cheater Hans' from a public balcony during the tournament.

The scandal rocked the chess world, and rumors quickly spread, with many speculating on exactly how Niemann might have cheated in the prestigious match.

The main theory was that he could have had a wirelessly vibrating set of anal beads that could be used to communicate with chess players who were remotely watching the livestreamed match.

Chess fans believed that Niemann could have used this technology to get other experienced players to come up with on-the-fly strategies for him to use.

While there was no evidence for the bizarre theory, Niemann was body-scanned shortly before entering a tournament just a few weeks later.

Reporters at the time could be heard laughing as Niemann turned around to be inspected by a security guard.

Shortly after the 2022 spat, Chess.com banned Niemann and later published a report saying he had likely cheated more than 100 times in online games.

The 20-year-old chess prodigy has competed in tournaments all over the world, taking part in his first US rated tournament when he was just eight years old. He is pictured at a match in 2013 and right in 2014, at age 10, when he became the youngest winner of the Mechanics Institute Chess Club tournament in its 159-year history

As an eighth grade student in 2017, Niemann won first place in a local chess championship. He is pictured playing with friend Gavin Spandow, who described Hans as 'fiercely competitive and far from humble'

Niemann admitted to cheating online between the ages of 12 and 16, but he denied any wrongdoing while contesting over-the-board games.

Friends of his previously revealed that Niemann is 'fiercely competitive and far from humble', and added that they weren't surprised by the cheating allegations.

Childhood friend Gavin Spandow previously told the Mail: 'I know he talked about the intricacies of online chess compared to Over The Board chess [he felt] that they were very different games.

'It's less surprising to me that he would cheat at online matches. He always made a distinction between online and in person.'

'He was really an incredibly egotistical, confident, cocky player.

'In my experience he couldn't quite let his skill speak for itself. He was somewhat insecure in that way.'

But Spandow was adamant, 'It would surprise me incredibly if he cheated in an in-person game.'

Chess.com said on Monday it stood by the findings in its report on Niemann, 'including that we found no determinative evidence that he has cheated in any in-person games'.

The platform added that Niemann's account has been reinstated and he is welcome to play at future events.

'I look forward to competing against Magnus in chess rather than in court,' Niemann said.

Meanwhile, Magnus frostily said: 'I acknowledge and understand Chess.com's report, including its statement that there is no determinative evidence that Niemann cheated in his game against me at the Sinquefield Cup.

'I am willing to play Niemann in future events, should we be paired together.'
Annastacia Palaszczuk could survive a crisis of confidence in her leadership and even become Queensland's longest serving Labor premier since World War II as a result of a little-known party rule.

After more than eight years in power, there is increasing speculation her ambitious deputy Steven Miles could replace her before the next election, due in October 2024.

Her latest two-week trip to Europe - the second overseas holiday this year - is occurring despite bad polling, a youth crime wave and a cost of living crisis.

But Queensland senator Anthony Chisholm, who was Labor's state secretary when new rules were introduced almost a decade ago, said Ms Palaszczuk would be likely to next year overtake Peter Beattie to become Labor's longest-serving premier since 1942.

'The next election's more than 12 months away, that's something she'll tick off along the way,' he told Daily Mail Australia.

'But I don't think it's something she's focused on to be honest.

'People are entitled to have a holiday.'

But the Brisbane-based senator admitted youth crime was a political challenge.

'It's a difficult issue for the government to deal with but I'm confident they will be making the right moves,' he said.

Annastacia Palaszczuk could survive a crisis of confidence in her leadership and even become Queensland's longest serving premier since World War II as a result of a little-known party rule (she is pictured right with her surgeon boyfriend Dr Reza Adib)

Under Labor Party rules introduced in 2014, a leadership spill requires the support of 50 per cent of MPs.

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Then there would be a postal ballot of MPs, party members and unions, with each given equal weighting.

Despite that, Senator Chisholm said no Queensland Labor premier in living memory had been overthrown in a party ballot.

'We've got a strong history of supporting our leaders,' he said.

'I'm confident the party's behind Annastacia and it's not unusual mid-term to go through a few difficult spots as a government but I'm confident they can come out the other side.'

Robert Schwarten, a former Rockhampton-based ministerial colleague of Ms Palaszczuk, suggested anonymous backbenchers wanting a promotion were backgrounding against the premier.

'They'll lose the election if they keep doing what they're doing and hiding behind some sort of anonymity and not having the guts to show their hand,' he told Daily Mail Australia.

'That's exactly what's going to happen.

'No one will identify themselves - I learnt a long time ago the difference between noise and voices is the key to politics.

'There's a lot of noise but how many voices?'

A Resolve poll for The Brisbane Times found the Opposition Liberal National Party leading Labor 51.5 per cent to 48.5 per cent, after preferences.

LNP leader David Crisafulli was also preferred premier, with 37 per cent support compared with 36 per cent for Ms Palaszczuk, Australia's only female premier to have won three elections.

Ms Palaszczuk took over as Labor leader in 2012 following Anna Bligh's landslide defeat as premier, which saw the ALP left with just seven seats in an 89-seat Parliament.

But in less than three years, she took Labor back into power, after her Liberal National Party predecessor Campbell Newman alienated public servants, lawyers and doctors.

Labor under her was re-elected in 2017 and 2020, with Queensland's border closure for the pandemic helping it to win normally LNP-voting retiree seats including Caloundra and Nicklin on the Sunshine Coast, along with Hervey Bay and Pumicestone covering Bribie Island, north of Brisbane.

While Ms Palaszczuk comes from the Right faction, the Left has controlled the party conference since 2014 when it was still in Opposition, making Dr Miles from the Left the leading contender to become the next premier.

'I don't think it's really helpful to speculate on something like that,' Senator Chisholm said.

'I see Annastacia regularly at events and I get a sense she's hungry and determined and working hard just as she was the first day she got elected.'

After more than eight years in power, there is increasing speculation her ambitious deputy Steven Miles could replace her before the next election, due in October 2024

If Ms Palaszczuk survives until April 2024, she will overtake Mr Beattie's nine years and two months in the job with three election wins to her name.

Her former boss, like her, won from Opposition, in 1998, but he also triumphed at four elections, with subsequent victories in 2001, 2004 and 2006 in the era before there were four-year terms in Queensland.

By overtaking him, she would be the longest-serving Queensland Labor premier since William Forgan Smith's decade to 1942.

That would also make her Queensland's fourth longest serving premier behind National Party leader Joh Bjelke-Petersen, fellow Country Party leader Frank Nicklin and Mr Forgan Smith.

No Queensland premier has been overthrown by their party, ahead of an election, since the Nationals replaced Mike Ahern with Russell Cooper in September 1989, just nine weeks before the election that swept Labor back into power for the first time in 32 years.
A young Australian family is searching for answers through 'unfathomable grief' after their baby, a 'beacon of light', died suddenly from a mystery illness.

Lucy and Luke's toddler Rosie died on August 12, aged just 14 months after her dad found her unresponsive in her bed in their Albury home.

The parents do not know why their 'happy, beautiful soul' passed away but are patiently working through a long process to try and find out.

The couple also want to tell their heartbreaking story in an effort to educate other parents so they can avoid a similarly 'horrendous' loss.

Lucy and Luke's toddler Rosie died on August 12, aged just 14 months after her dad found her unresponsive in her bed in their Albury home

The Albury family want to tell their heartbreaking story in an effort to educate other parents so they can avoid a similarly 'horrendous' loss. Pictured: (from left to right) Rosie, Luke, Harry, Ella and Lucy

The parents do not know why their 'happy, beautiful soul' passed away but are patiently working through a long process to try and find out

The day before Rosie passed away Lucy, 30, stayed home to care for her 'super lethargic' daughter, Yahoo reported.

Rosie was ill several times over winter and had again contracted a bug.

Both Rosie and the couple's three-year-old Ella brought home colds from daycare this winter. Each contracted Covid and RSV (respiratory virus).

When Rosie was well enough she was immunised in mid July and developed a rash, but it went away.

A month later their 'mischievous, beautiful baby' died.

Lucy said the night before she passed Rosie had vomited, but settled easily.

Her mum will never forget the day Luke, 26, went to wake the toddler.

'We woke up on Saturday and Luke went into Rosies room and I heard the worst scream Ive ever heard in my life.'

Courageously, Lucy said Rosie not only had a positive impact on their whole family, she helped make it their 'best ever' year.

The bereaved parents, who also have a nine-year-old boy Harry, have been searching for answers and last week were told by the coroner that fluid was found around Rosies brain and stomach.

After Rosie passed they took both Ella and Harry to hospital in Albury and after tests were told Ella tested positive for a virus that can cause viral meningitis.

Lucy and Luke suspect the same virus may have befallen Rosie.

Courageously, Lucy said Rosie, 'a happy, beautiful soul' not only had a positive impact on their whole family, she helped make it their 'best ever' year

Luke said getting a final answer on why Rosie died 'won't make it easier' though it might help

Luke said getting a final answer on why Rosie died 'won't make it easier' though it might help.

Family and friends have launched a GoFundMe page to raise money for Rosie's funeral and to give the grieving parents time off work to begin healing from their loss.

The organiser of the fundraiser, James Chalmers, explained the donations would 'ease the financial burden while the family are navigating through this heartbreaking time'.

'Rosie passed away suddenly and her family are bearing the unfathomable grief of losing their precious daughter and little sister,' he wrote.
Google says it has strong competition from Samsung and Huawei

Tech giants Google and Apple have rejected claims that the in-built app stores on their mobile phones are anti-competitive.

Speaking at a parliamentary inquiry on Tuesday, Google's public policy director in Australia Lucinda Longcroft said the company had been facing sharp competition from other manufacturers such as Samsung and Huawei's app stores.

Google had come under fire for charging a 30 per cent fee for companies on digital transactions made in apps, but Ms Longcroft said only larger companies were charged the fee.

'The vast majority of app developers in Australia, and globally, pay no fees. Ninety-seven per cent of all app developers pay no fees because they're not charging users,' she told the inquiry.

'The only people that pay a fee of 30 per cent are those that make over $1million Australian annually.

Google's public policy director in Australia Lucinda Longcroft (pictured) said the company had been facing sharp competition from other manufacturers such as Samsung and Huawei's app stores

'Google's business model is unapologetically to support a wide app store and developer community.'

The criticisms came in light of the developer of the video game Fortnite, Epic Games, launching legal proceedings against Apple and Google over the fees.

In its submission to the inquiry, the developer previously said the large market share of the tech companies had led to an anti-competitive environment.

But Ms Longcroft said smaller operators made up the bulk of the more than $600million in value of app store developers in Australia.

'It is our business model to ensure that only the very largest developers pay any fee at all, and that they pay a fee which is competitive at the market level,' she said.

'Our billing structure is one which serves the great majority of Australian users, that (leads) to a vibrant app developer community here in Australia and globally.'

The inquiry also heard from Apple's chief compliance officer Kyle Andeer, who rejected claims about its app stores being anti-competitive.

Mr Andeer said a similar fee structure for developers was in place for its products and that only bigger firms paid larger fees.

'A small handful pay that 30 per cent commission, the largest, most successful billion dollar developers like Epic Games ... every other developer is eligible for a commission that's at 15 per cent,' he said.

He also hit back at claims that apps already pre-downloaded on devices such as iPhones made it less competitive for other apps providing similar services.

He said there was a large amount of competition for third-party apps within its store.

'Take music for example. Spotify is the most successful music service in Australia by a three-to-one margin over Apple Music,' Mr Andeer said.

'We see this play out over and over again because we use the App Store as an engine for competition.

'We have every incentive to offer our users as many different apps as possible, including apps that compete with us.'
Three weeks earlier, he also ordered for his superyacht to be returned to a friendly port anticipating that the West would impose sanctions against him

Secret documents prove Putin moved his 100million superyacht three weeks before he ordered the invasion of Ukraine to avoid having it seized as part of war sanctions, a new investigation has claimed.

The revelation suggests that Putin was planning for the personal consequences of his act of aggression - launched on February 24, 2022 - well in advance.

According to the papers, the Russian despot had his yacht 'Graceful' sail from the famous Blohm & Voss shipyard in Hamburg, Germany to the Russian semi-exclave of Kaliningrad two weeks before the invasion.

The documents, released by Russian investigative journalist Maria Pevchikh - who heads the anti-corruption foundation set up by Alexei Navalny - show an email was sent to Blohm & Voss saying its owner was unhappy with an on-going 'refit'.

The email, sent by an employee of 'SCF Group' (or Sovcomflot - Russia's largest shipping company), tells the shipyard that Graceful's 'owner' wants the ship to sail out of the Hamburg port on February 1, 2022.

Pictured: The yacht 'Graceful' sails along the Kiel Canal (Nord Ostsee Kanal) near Rendsburg, north of Hamburg, Germany, February 7, 2022. Picture taken February 7, 2022

On board, the three-deck ship boasts suites that can house up to 12 guests and 14 crew, a 50-foot indoor swimming pool that turns into a theatre and dance floor (pictured) with the press of a button, a helipad, a gym, and a wine cave that can store 400 bottles

Pictures of its interior show marble floors and luxury wooden furnishings costing tens of thousands of pounds and Roman-style pillars in the bedrooms (pictured)

The email does not provide a reason why the owner (Putin) is unhappy with the on-going refit, saying only that it must set sail within days.

'The owner is not happy with the retrofit. He is dissatisfied with the delays in the construction process,' the email says.

'The owner wants the Graceful to be brought to the Russian Federation on February 1st (...). Please mobilise an uninterrupted crew  2 shifts.'

The email, sent on January 19, 2022, adds: 'Please accelerate all works which may interfere with Graceful sailing out on 01 February.

'Please calculate the amount to be paid by Owners due to early departure. Crew and myself will provide full assistance to prepare Graceful for Towing.'

It goes on to instruct the shipbuilders: 'Please prepare the contract modification and the plan of the works [for] completion on the Russian territory.'

Blohm & Voss, a German company with 150 years of experience in building and servicing super yachts (and which built Adolf Hitler's yacht 'Grille' in 1934), was set to work on Graceful - which it also built in 2014 - for at least another year.

According to Alexey Navalny's investigators, the email sent panic through Blohm & Voss, which was forced to cancel this work and get the ship ready to set sail in just 12 days. What's more, the yacht's crew - who were living in Hamburg - had to quickly move out of their homes, cancel their cell phone contracts, and get ready to depart.

The investigators say the yacht was not ready at all, and still had open holes in its surface which needed to be covered with shields, while other parts had to be assembled before it could set sail.

The reason for the sudden urgency was a mystery to all but one man: Putin. It would only become clear why the work was cancelled so quickly weeks later.

According to the papers, Vladimir Putin (pictured on the deck of a yacht in 2021) had his yacht 'Graceful' sail from from the famous Blohm & Voss shipyard in Hamburg, Germany to the Russian semi-exclave of Kaliningrad two weeks before the invasion

The documents, released by Russian investigative journalist Maria Pevchikh - who heads the anti-corruption foundation set up by Alexei Navalny, show an email was sent to shipbuilders Blohm & Voss saying its owner was unhappy with an on-going 'refit' and that it was to return to Russia 'to complete' the work (pictured)

Pictured: A blueprint for Putin's Graceful yacht, one of 20,000 documents released by investigative journalists working for Alexei Navalny's anti-corruption foundation

Reports suggest the company did not meet the deadline of February 1, with pictures showing Graceful being towed out of Hamburg on February 7.

Nevetheless, the yacht reached the Russian port of Kaliningrad before Putin ordered the full scale invasion on Ukraine in February 2022.

In response, the UK, US, European Union and other allied nations imposed sanctions on the Russian leader, those within his inner circle, as well as Russian businesses and organisations.

As part of these sanctions, Putin and his allied Oligarchs have seen their assets seized across the world, including numerous superyachts and houses.

But the report from Pevchikh suggests Putin was preparing for this eventuality by ordering Graceful - which has since be renamed Kosatka (Russian for 'killer whale') - to return to a friendly port well in advance.

For a long time, it was presumed that Putin was the owner of the 270-foot superyacht. This was confirmed when a Russian publication tracked its movements and matched those to Putin's own travels, as well as its activity before the war.

Finished in 2014, Graceful - Putin's second largest yacht - is said to have cost 87 million euros (75 million) at the time, and is one of many assets that demonstrate Putin's exorbitant wealth which he works hard to keep from the public.

On board, the three-deck ship boasts suites that can house up to 12 guests and 14 crew, a 50-foot indoor swimming pool that turns into a theatre and dance floor with the press of a button, a helipad, a gym, and a wine cave that can store 400 bottles.

Pictures of its interior show marble floors and luxury wooden furnishings costing tens of thousands of pounds and Roman-style pillars in the bedrooms.

Pictured: One of the bathrooms onboard the yacht, said to be in the private quarters of Putin's secret wife Alina Kabaeva

Pictured: A rare glimpse inside what are said to be Putin's private quarters on the superyacht

It also features a large library, spa and plunge pools and a cocktail bar.

The retrofit, it is understood, added two new balconies and extended the pool. In today's money, is it believed to be worth around 120 million euros (102 million).

It is one of no less than three ocean-going yachts allegedly owned by the tyrant who insists on keeping several ships, like some of the other wealthiest Russian oligarchs.

The Graceful is seen as his favourite floating love nest with Alina Kabaeva - believed to be his second wife who he has hidden away in a secret location - behind the even larger Scheherazade which has been seized under Western sanctions.

Both yachts are crewed by the same or other FSO presidential security officers, according to the Navalny's investigative team, which detailed some of the costs of the furnishings seen in photos of the yacht's interior.

In Alina's bedroom is a bed costing 3.3 million rubles [27,600, $35,165]. This has 'a mattress costing 6,700 or $8,533, and two bedside tables with 10,900 or $13,835.

Her ocean-going suite has a sofa costing 33,400 or $42,545.

There is a Champagne-coloured carpet worth more than 71,000, or $90,455.

In Russia, the cost of her bedroom furnishings alone would pay for a whole flat for a humble worker.

There are also bookcases traditionally filled with books with beautiful spines.

Putin's larger quarters come with a sprawling Indian rug worth [41,800, $53,255], and red velvet bedding. He has a workspace for war-plotting alongside his bed.

The Navalny team stress Putin's yacht is unaffordable when compared to his official salary of 7,000 a month.

Pictured: A superyacht is seen being built in the Blohm & Voss dock in the harbour in Hamburg, Germany (file photo). The German company has 150 years of experience building and servicing super yachts (and also built Adolf Hitler's yacht 'Grille' in 1934). The company set to work on Graceful - which it also built in 2014 - for at least another year

The dictator is claimed to have two other yachts, one gifted to him by a top oligarch almost two decades ago, the Olympia, and the other - the 550 million 'floating palace' Scheherazade - seized by the West.

It is unclear how he could enjoy such opulence with critics blaming endemic corruption under his regime.

Putin's officials deny he owns these ocean-going vessels.

Graceful has been spotted since it returned to Kaliningrad. According to Forbes, it was seen in October 2022 travelling through the Baltic Sea - escorted by an armed Russian Coast Guard Vessel. It was believed to be en route to St. Petersburg.
A Labour peer has died after falling ill while on a cruise in Iceland, the party has confirmed.

Lord Alan Haworth had contracted bacterial pneumonia while on a tour of Iceland and Greenland with his wife Maggie Rae last week.

The 75-year-old was airlifted to hospital in the Icelandic capital of Reykjavik but sadly passed away on Monday, August 28, following a heart attack.

Tribute have been paid to the politician by Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer and former Prime Minister Tony Blair, who called him a 'wonderful, warm and witty companion'.

Lord Haworth had been secretary of the parliamentary Labour Party from 1992 to 2004, then became a member of the House of Lords.

Lord Alan Haworth, pictured here in his official House of Lords portrait, passed away on Monday after falling ill on a cruise

In statement Ms Rae praised the doctors and nurses who treated her husband.

'I am obviously heartbroken but I cannot speak highly enough of the Icelandic health service and the doctors and nurses who looked after him,' she said.

'I will never be able to thank them properly for their kindness and their professionalism.'

Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer led tributes to the Blackburn-born peer, who had a keen interest in the party's history, co-authoring a book on the first 29 Labour MPs elected in 1906.

'Alan Haworth was a dedicated servant of the Labour Party and a diligent student of its history,' said Sir Keir.

'Alan worked for the party in both the House of Commons as PLP secretary and then in the House of Lords as a working peer, without fuss or fanfare but with an absolute determination to make life better for working people.

'He played a key role in delivering Labour's 1997 landslide and ensuring the party was re-elected. Alan will be greatly missed on both the green and red benches in Parliament.

'My thoughts are with Maggie and all his family and friends at this terrible time.'

The 75-year-old, pictured here in an interview, was described as a 'wonderful, warm and witty companion' by former Prime Minister Tony Blair

Labour's leader in the House of Lords, Baroness Angela Smith, said: 'Alan was Labour to his core with an entertaining, warm-hearted and encyclopaedic knowledge of parliamentary colleagues past and present.

'He was great company and held the respect and affection of all in the Labour Peers Group.

'I am shocked at this news and will miss him dearly.'

Former Labour prime minister Sir Tony Blair said: 'Alan was one of my close friends, a wonderful, warm and witty companion.

'You never had a dull evening with Alan, and I had many of them. And there was no one whose counsel I found wiser or more perceptive. He and Maggie were fantastic hosts, generous and loving friends.

'Of course Alan was a huge Labour Party stalwart. But the kind that was no nonsense, let's get elected so we can do instead of talk.

'And in all the years I knew Alan, he never wavered in his belief in, and commitment to, the party. He served it with distinction and true and dedicated loyalty.

'So I will miss him very deeply indeed. On many different levels. In many different ways. It is a sad day for me, Cherie and all our family.'

There will be a private funeral with a memorial celebration planned for a future date.
A mother-of-two who noticed strange-looking pods hanging from the leaves of a palm tree when she peered across her backyard was utterly terrified when she discovered they were full of spiders.

Ashlee, who lives in the Sutherland Shire in Sydney's south, took photos of the six pear-shaped sacks and posted them to Facebook, hoping to find out what they were.

Several people explained each pod could be full of about 600 Magnificent Spider eggs.

In light of the skin-crawling news, Ashlee is now considering ripping the tree, which hangs over her pool, out of the ground.

Ashlee who lives in the Sutherland Shire, in Sydney's south, took photos of the six pear-shaped sacks and posted them to Facebook, hoping to find out what they were

Several people explained each pod could be full of about 600 Magnificent Spider eggs

READ MORE: Moment a massive python slithers across the roof of a family home Advertisement

'I am petrified of spiders,' Hannah told Yahoo. 'I had a hunch it was a spider, but they looked way too big,' she told Yahoo News Australia.

'I honestly want to tear down the branch as I have two young girls under two, but that means getting near it.'

But social media users fascinated by Ashlee's discovery begged her not to hurt the creatures.

'Omg never seen anything like this,' one wrote.

Another said: 'Beautiful... bring them to mine! Don't kill them.'

The Magnificent Spider is a species that is found along Australia's east coast and lives in trees and forests.

They form a group of three species of Bolas spiders, that lay large brown sacs which are up to about five centimetres in length.

The spiders are not harmful to humans and are mostly active at night to hunt for food.

The spider is native to the east cost of Australia and lives in trees and forests

According to the Australian Museum, the spider hunts for prey using the silk it produces to catch moths.

Female magnificent spiders stand out more than males as they are covered in various markings.

'The female magnificent spider is very distinctive in its markings,' states the Australian Museum website.

'It is white with two bright yellow knobs on its abdomen, and a number of salmon-coloured spots and blotches as well,'

'The body and limbs are covered with long fine hairs, especially the forelegs'.
Sadiq Khan dismissed fury from Londoners and rising Labour alarm today as the ULEZ expansion came into force.

In a bruising round of interviews this morning, the mayor denied that extending the ultra-low emission zone across the capital was an 'anti-car' money-raising exercise.

He shrugged off fears from allies of Keir Starmer about the political consequences of imposing the 12.50-a-day levy so widely - insisting people 'want to see their leaders taking bold action'.

But Mr Khan did try to quell a fresh row by denying that he will bring in a pay-per-mile system for drivers during his term at City Hall, despite the emergence of documents showing it has been considered.

Transport Secretary Mark Harper said he would have blocked the ULEZ plan if he had the power.

In a bruising round of interviews this morning, Sadiq Khan denied that extending the ultra-low emission zone to almost all of the capital was 'anti-car'

Mr Khan stood by his policy in posts on X - formerly known as Twitter - today

How the Ultra Low Emission Zone has expanded across London throughout the years

The bulk of Greater London is covered by the 12.50 a day levy from today.

It hits petrol vehicles introduced earlier than 2005 that are not compliant with Euro 4 emissions regulations.

Meanwhile, diesel cars and vans are only exempt if their engine complies with more recent Euro 6 rules, which were introduced in September 2015.

This will snare popular vans registered before the cut-off date including Ford Transit Custom 310s.

Sir Keir has been trying to distance himself from the policy since it was blamed for Labour's failure to win the Uxbridge & South Ruislip by-election, triggered by Boris Johnson's resignation from the Commons.

Senior Labour figures fear that anger at the policy could cost the party key outer London seats in the general election next year.

But Mr Khan told Times Radio: 'The policy to clean the air in London is not anti-car or anti-motorist.

'The good news is actually nine out of 10 cars seen driving in outer London on an average day are already compliant.

'So there is no additional fee for you to pay, no restrictions on you, yet you benefit from the clean air.

'But I accept there are a small number of cars that will be affected, they are non-compliant cars.

'They themselves, the drivers, breath in pollutants, and that's why I've announced that every single driver in London of a car or motorbike, every small business with a van, every charity with a minibus, will receive financial support (for scrapping non-compliant vehicles).'

Mr Khan tried to quell another row over claims he is putting London on track for a pay-per-mile scheme for motorists.

He told Times Radio: 'I am ruling out a pay-per-mile scheme whilst I am mayor, it's not on the agenda, it's not on the table.

'But it's no secret that the Government, transport officials in London and around the country, have been looking at for some time, in relation to a smarter, streamlined service for a variety of reasons, not least because the Government are worried about fuel revenues drying up over the course of the next few years.'

Speaking on GB News, Mr Harper said of the ULEZ expansion: 'I don't have the power to stop it coming into force. That's a decision for the Mayor of London backed by the Labour leader. I think he should think again.

'He says this has to do with air quality, his own impact assessment says this will only have a minor to negligible effect on air pollution.

'It's not about air pollution, it's about a money-raising exercise and this is absolutely not the time to be putting all those costs on hard-pressed and hard-working Londoners and those in the area outside London.'

Asked if he would stop the expansion if he had the power, Mr Harper said: 'Yes, I don't have the power, though.

'We've looked at this really carefully. Despite what some people say, including on your channel, I don't have the legal power to block it.

'That's a decision for the Mayor of London, and it's not too late for him to think again.'

Keir Starmer has been trying to distance himself from the policy since it was blamed for Labour's failure to win the Uxbridge & South Ruislip by-election

Shadow employment minister Justin Madders made clear yesterday that Sir Keir will not intervene to stop Mr Khan going ahead.

However, he said the leadership did not want the plan to take effect now.

The frontbencher told Sky News 'everyone would agree that dealing with air pollution is an important issue' but affordability has to be considered.

'What it shows is that when someone is democratically elected by the people that they represent, they have the mandate. He is entitled to continue to govern London in the way he sees fit,' he said.

'We are also entitled to say to him we think he should think again and reconsider some of his policies when it's having an effect on people.

'But we are not going to start imposing on people, local councils and mayors, our view on the way the world works because we actually want to go in the opposite direction  we want to give communities greater power and say over their own futures.'
Mr Forrest threw a bash in the Pilbara desert on Saturday

Second executive revealed to have quit recently

Another top executive has sensationally quit Andrew 'Twiggy' Forrest's mining empire.

It was revealed on Tuesday that Harvest Road CEO Paul Slaughter announced his resignation several weeks ago as the head of the agribusiness branch of Andrew and Nicola Forrest's private investment group, Tattarang.

Mr Slaughter is the second prominent executive to step away from the mining magnate's empire in a short space of time, after Fortescue Metals chief Fiona Hick stepped down as CEO on Monday.

The revelation comes days after billionaire businessman Mr Forrest threw an extravagant outback bash to mark his company's 20th anniversary.

Harvest Road CEO Paul Slaughter (pictured) has resigned as the head of the agribusiness branch of Andrew 'Twiggy' Forrest's mining empire

The resignation news comes after Mr Forrest (pictured) threw an extravagant outback bash to mark his company's 20th anniversary, with 700 of Australia's elite in attendance

Mr Slaughter was the chief executive officer of Harvest Road for almost three years, after he was appointed in late 2020.

Ms Hick had only been in her position for less than six months when she resigned.

The departures of Mr Slaughter and Ms Hick comes a month after a third executive, Felicity Golding, left the company back in July.

Tattarang chief executive John Hartman specially thanked Mr Slaughter for his contribution to the progress of Harvest Road and overseeing its aquaculture investments.

Mr Hartman praised Mr Slaughter's 'contribution in animal welfare and environmental sustainability.'

'That vision remains our focus,' he said.

'We wish Paul all the very best for the future.'

The resignations follow Mr Forrest's 'surreal' bash for 700 of Australia's elite deep in Western Australia's Pilbara desert - as his estranged wife made her first public comments since their shock split last month.

The billionaire chartered a fleet of Qantas jets to fly his well-heeled guests to Fortescue Metals Group's Solomon mine in remote WA near the town of Tom Price on Saturday where they were treated to a performance by Jimmy Barnes and a 'spectacular' drone light show.

Twiggy entered the purpose-built outdoor arena on an enormous tip truck, waving a huge company flag while Thunderstruck by AC/DC blared out into the warm desert air.

Mr Slaughter is the second executive to quit in a short space of time after Fortescue Metals chief Fiona Hick (pictured) stepped down on Monday. A third executive, Felicity Golding, left the company back in July

The resignations follow Mr Forrest's outback party. The billionaire businessman (pictured), who wore a cream linen suit paired with a stylish cravat, reportedly stayed up until 2.30am for the event

Twiggy entered the purpose-built outdoor arena on an enormous tip truck, waving a huge company flag while Thunderstruck by AC/DC blared out into the warm desert air (pictured)

'It was totally surreal - like a magical mystery tour,' one guest told Daily Mail Australia.

But the event was marked by one major omission: Twiggy's wife and business partner Nicola Forrest was not in attendance, following the shock announcement of their split last month.

'She was notably absent and that was certainly remarked upon by the guests,' the source said.

'But on the surface it was all very nice and amicable.'

Ms Forrest, who is now Fortescue's largest shareholder, did, however, make a brief appearance via video message broadcast on giant outdoor screens.

Political operator Warren Mundine, who was in attendance and wore a 'No' campaign T-shirt at the event, said it was 'good' to hear from Ms Forrest as he is 'great mates with both of them'.

'Her (Nicola's) video message was about the struggles to get Fortescue up and running in the beginning and how successful it had been - and thanking all of the people who had been involved,' Mr Mundine told Daily Mail Australia.

'The whole thing was pretty spectacular and a brilliant celebration,' he added.

'It was good to catch up with a whole heap of people I haven't seen in a while as well as catching up with Andrew.'

Rocker Jimmy Barnes (pictured) reportedly had the crowd of big money bankers and mining executives dancing to his blue-collar anthem Working Class Man

Businessman Warren Mundine told Daily Mail Australia is was 'pretty spectacular and a brilliant celebration'. (Mr Mundine is pictured at the event with Sky News host Laura Jayes)

Media identity, Eddie McGuire (pictured, right), with businessman David Franca

Twiggy pictured with Chinese Consul General in Perth, Long Dingbin. There were many 'Perthonalities' at the event, a guest told Daily Mail Australia - people considered celebrities in Perth but not elsewhere in the country

The children of Australia's richest couple - Grace, Sophia, Matilda and Sydney - also recorded video messages.

Anthony Albanese and former prime ministers John Howard, Kevin Rudd and Malcolm Turnbull all sent their own messages, while guests also heard from former British Prime Ministers Tony Blair and Boris Johnson.

Gene Simmons, the KISS co-frontman, even sent his greetings.

Other famous in-person guests included billionaire fast-food mogul Jack Cowin, prominent investor Alex Waislitz, Harris Farm founder Catherine Harris, AFL and Nine host Eddie McGuire and Optus chief Kelly Bayer Rosmarin.

Less illustrious guests included Kwasi Kwarteng: the UK's second shortest-serving Chancellor ever.

The event was marked by one major omission: Twiggy's wife and business partner Nicola Forrest (pictured, right) was not in attendance, following the shock announcement of their split last month

Guests included billionaires Jack Cowin and Alex Waislitz, Harris Farm Markets chairperson Cath Harris, AFL and media identity Eddie McGuire and Optus chief Kelly Bayer Rosmarin

Mr Forrest told guests mining giants like himself had a duty to lead the charge against the 'lethal humidity' caused by climate change

'There were also quite a few 'Perthonalities': people who are considered big names in Perth but no one else has heard of them,' a source told Daily Mail Australia.

Jimmy Barnes got the crowd of big money bankers and mining executives dancing to his blue-collar anthem 'Working Class Man'.

Coldplay was initially asked to headline the event but pulled out when Mr Forrest wouldn't meet their fee.

The rockers told organisers they would only travel out for $10million - a bridge too far even for Mr Forrest.

The event's MC was former Wallabies and the Bachelor star Nick 'Honey Badger' Cummins, who labelled his host the 'Big Twig'.

In the more sombre moments, Mr Forrest told guests mining giants like himself had a duty to lead the charge against the 'lethal humidity' caused by climate change.

'It's not consumers... it's big industry like mine, we're the ones that need to change, how we produce our iron ore, the steel you need for your cars,' said Mr Forrest, according to the Australian Financial Review.

The event's MC was former Wallabies and Bachelor star Nick 'Honey Badger' Cummins (above), who labelled his host the 'Big Twig'

Fortescue employees and other revellers soak up the 'party in the Pilbara'

The official event was followed by an after-party that went into the small hours for those unwilling to return to their 'dongas' - the mining cabins guests were put up in for the night.

Twiggy, who was dressed in a cream linen suit paired with a stylish cravat, was reportedly up until 2.30am.

Three-quarters of the mine reportedly sits on land owned by the Yindjibarndi people, the traditional owners of the land.

The Yindjibarndi Aboriginal Corporation is seeking $1 billion in royalties and compensation for Fortescue's mining in the region.

Fortescue, which has separately struck deals with the Wirlu-murra Yindjibarndi Aboriginal Corporation, is fighting the case.
A paranoid Vladimir Putin is fearful he will face a new armed rebellion despite the death of coup-leading warlord Yevgeny Prigozhin in last week's plane crash.

Putin 'believes that after the liquidation of Prigozhin in Russia, there is a threat of a new military rebellion,' according to The Moscow Times, citing sources close to the Kremlin.

There is concern that Wagner hardliners blame Putin directly for Prigozhin's death and seek retribution.

His regime has 'ordered the secret services to prepare for the threat of a new military insurgency'.

The Kremlin has ordered a ban on the funeral of Prigozhin and his associates killed in last week's plane crash from becoming a major public event, according to several reports.

Russian President Vladimir Putin attends a meeting with Omsk Region Acting Governor Vitaly Khotsenko at the Kremlin in Moscow, Russia August 28, 2023

Yevgeny Prigozhin plane crashes in Tver region, Russia, on 23 August 2023

Members of the Wagner Group military company guard an area as other load their tank onto a truck on a street in Rostov-on-Don, Russia, Saturday, June 24, 2023

A flag bearing the logo of private mercenary group Wagner flutters above a portrait of late head of Wagner paramilitary group, Yevgeny Prigozhin at a makeshift memorial in Moscow, on August 27, 2023

There were signs of a mass security operatinon being put in place at Serafimovsky cemetery in St Petersburg where low-key funerals of at least some Wagner figures were reportedly starting today.

Putin was spooked by Prigozhin's earlier mutiny and his intelligence agencies have been ordered to stop any new Wagner 'rally' that might turn into a new march on Moscow.

'Tanks approaching less than 125 miles from Moscow made an indelible impression on Vladimir Putin, who ruled for more than two decades,' said The Moscow Times.

'Prigozhin not only defied the army command, but also disobeyed a personal order from the president, and therefore was considered a threat to the regime,' four sources told the outlet.

Putin wants to see Wagner mercenary army disbanded even though it was his invention, deploying his once loyal henchman Prigozhin as its head.

In future all members of private military companies like Wagner must declare allegiance to the Russian state - and Putin.

'Many members of Wagner believe that the authorities may be behind [Prigozhin's death],' said Oleg Ignatov, an analyst at the International Crisis Group.

'And the authorities cannot ignore such risks.'

This comes as the Kremlin is preparing to rig next year's Russian presidential election to ban youthful rival candidates who would make the dictator, 70, appear like a 'grandfather'.

Another extraordinary report from independent media outlet Meduza indicates Putin is - illegally - banning any young candidates from next March's Russian presidential election when the dictator will be 71, and seek a six year term taking him to the age of 77.

One prominent rival candidate, imprisoned Alexei Navalny, 47, was this month jailed for an additional 19 years - preventing him from posing any political threat to Putin.

Only stooge candidates will be allowed after 'vetting' by Putin officials.

People stand next to an informal street memorial for Wagner Group's military group members killed in a plane crash

A woman lays a candle at a makeshift memorial for late head of Wagner paramilitary group, Yevgeny Prigozhin, in Moscow

Another younger candidate Vladislav Davankov, 39, vice-speaker of the Russian parliament, faces being banned because he is seen as too youthful.

'An energetic young candidate might make the voters think about the president's age,' said the report.

A source said: 'This wouldn't be a flattering contrast.'

Two Kremlin insiders told Meduza that 'politicians younger than 50 were deliberately excluded from nomination, since a younger candidate on the ballot might make the voters pause and wonder if the 70-year-old Putin is still the same person ''who came to power with a firm hand''.'

Putin's main rival is expected to be Gennady Zyuganov, 78, Communist Party leader.

He will pose no threat to Putin because 'he won't attract any new voters beyond his existing ossified electorate'.

A younger Communist candidate has been banned from standing.

Another rival is expected to be Leonid Slutsky, 55, leader of the ultranationalist Liberal-Democratic Party of Russia, accused by female journalists of being a sexual predator.

He is seen as a 'serious man in a suit' yet his 'personal ranking is low' and he will pose no threat to Putin.

In the 2018 presidential election, glamorous TV star Ksenia Sobchak, 41, also known as Putin's 'goddaughter', stood against him.

It is unclear if she will do so again.

She has known Putin since she was a child, and he attended her baptism, but she has liberal credentials.

Yet she poses no serious threat to him, scoring less than two per cent of the vote.

Despite rumours of ill-health, it appears Putin has no intention to quit and intends to remain in the Kremlin for life.
Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk's triumphant announcement that eight 'tiny houses' have been given to homeless tenants in a flood-devastated city has been met with scorn by her critics.

Ms Palaszczuk tweeted on Sunday that the portable factory-made homes, with a floor space of just 27sq/m, have been deployed in the city of Gympie, 180km north west of Brisbane.

'Great news! Tenants have just moved into these eight new factory-built homes in Gympie,' Ms Palaszczuk, who has a multimillion-dollar property portfolio, wrote on social media.

But her enthusiasm was met with hostility and sarcasm by some who pointed out worrying faults with the homes and compared them to 'trailer park caravans'.

Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk's enthusiasm for the new 'time houses' for the housing was not widely shared

Ms Palaszczuk lives in a four-bedroom Brisbane house, which occupies over 1000 square metres

'Move into one! See how excited you are then!' one person said.

'Trailer parks. Tiny trailer parks,' one person wrote. 'That's what you've delivered. Eight raised cabins in Australia's only town renowned for tornadoes.'

Another said: 'These things will fly so well in the next cyclone...'

Ms Palaszczuk currently lives in a four-bedroom house that occupies more than 1000sq/m in the leafy south east Brisbane suburb of Seventeen Mile Rocks, where the median property price is over $800,000.

She also owns two investment units, both over 100sq/m, on south-east Queensland's Main and Sunrise beaches, which last sold for $705,000 and $370,000 respectively.

Last week her government announced the eight homes were being set up in the Gympie Recovery Accommodation Park, an area for people left homeless after floods devastated the town in early 2022.

Queensland Housing Minister Meaghan Scanlon said 100 modular homes will eventually be in use, with the project being a partnership between the state government and Gympie Regional Council.

An inside look at the bedroom in one of the tiny homes that only measure 27square metres

The homes are built in just six weeks in a factory by Brisbane-based Alphaline Tiny Homes

Queensland Housing Minister Meaghan Scanlon said the homes were part of the solution to the state's surging number of homeless

Around of 100 homes are to be located in the Queensland city of Gympie, which was hit hard by floods last year

But eagle-eyed social media users were quick to point out trouble details of the houses, which Brisbane-based company Alphaline Tiny Homes took just six weeks to construct.

'Uhh, what's going on here?' one person asked about an apparent waste water pipe dangling off the side of the home.

'Better hope u ain't disabled, shouldn't there be hand rails either side,' another asked of the four wooden steps leading to the front door, which only had one hand rail.

A couple of those commenting also noticed an unconnected solar panel leaning against the front the of house.

'I see you haven't fully explained to the tenants how a solar panel works,' one person wrote.

'Or are they looking for the legs to their card table?'

But Ms Scanlon is adamant the construction of the tiny homes is a major win for vulnerable people affected by natural disasters.

'Whether it's tiny homes, modular homes or traditional builds  it's the Palaszczuk Government that's pulling every lever and using innovative housing solutions to help give Queenslanders in need a safe place to live,' Ms Scanlon said.

The minister's press release quoted an appreciative resident 'Don' who had moved into one of the homes.

'I had a high-profile job and businesses, then I had a nervous breakdown after having a heart attack,' Don was quoted as saying.

'I lost the farm, the house, my cars - and everything that goes with it.'

Don said he'd been sleeping in his van at a roadside rest area when he was offered one of the tiny homes.

'I thought I'd won the lotto,' he said.

LNP MP and Shadow Minister for Housing Tim Mander said tiny homes were at best a 'temporary solution'.

'We need homes that will accommodate families and people who are desperately in need of a roof over their head,' he told Channel Nine.
Scantily-clad revellers twerked in the streets and filmed each other grinding against one another during raunchy celebrations at Notting Hill Carnival.

But critics today questioned whether the displays were really 'sexual empowerment' or if they were going too far.

Broadcaster Julia Hartley-Brewer said: 'I believe this is what young women think is called "sexual empowerment". Sigh.'

Videos posted on social media showed festival-goers dancing provocatively in pairs or groups, with some bending over while others danced behind them.

The suggestive videos have received mixed comments online with some hitting out at the dancing as inappropriate, especially as the event attracts families and people of all ages.

But others defended party-goers for letting their hair down and 'having fun'.

One commenting on one of the videos said: 'This shouldn't be allowed in front of families with children!'

Revellers were filmed grinding against each other at Notting Hill Carnival

One video showed a woman bending over provocatively as another danced behind her

People filmed each other dancing suggestively and posted the clips on social media

Revellers dancing on the streets of Notting Hill, London

Another sarcastically wrote: 'Looks like a lovely place to take the family.'

'What a lovely family friendly Notting hill carnival eh?! Sorry, Im disgusted. Call me a stuffy,' one wrote.

But others were quick to defend revellers for having fun.

'There is nothing wrong with this... its people celebrating and dancing in carnival,' one said.

The videos emerged as the Metropolitan Police said that the final day of Notting Hill carnival was 'marred by serious violence' after eight people were stabbed in one night.

Detectives had praised the 'positive' and 'good-natured' atmosphere across the weekend but officers were forced into action after the carnival descended into violence on Bank Holiday Monday.

Police said that a 29-year-old man is in a critical condition after he was stabbed in Warfield Road, just off Harrow Road, shortly after 9pm. However, in the lead up to that incident, there were several other stabbings, while one officer was bitten.

A 19-year-old man was stabbed in Ladbroke Grove shortly before 8pm and remains in a serious but stable condition in hospital. Meanwhile, six other men aged 18, 19, 20, 25, 28 and 40 were stabbed in separate incidents. They sustained non life-threatening injuries.

Detectives had praised the 'positive' and 'good-natured' atmosphere across the weekend but officers were forced into action after the carnival descended into violence on Bank Holiday Monday. Pictured: Two ambulances arrive at the scene

Council workers were in attendance until the early hours cleaning an enormous amount of waste from the area

The Notting Hill clean up operation - council crews doing the mammoth task of getting the streets back in order

Police monitor the scene as council crews begin the clean up

The Met said they made a total of 275 arrests across the two days. On Sunday, there were 110 arrests for offences including possession of offensive weapons, assaults including on police officers, possession of drugs and sexual offences.

One man sustained a non-life changing slash wound but turned down help from the emergency services.

Read more: Notting Hill Carnival's final day kicks off in a spectacle of costumes and performance Advertisement

Officers also acted quickly to intercept a group who was in the possession of a firearm. They seized the weapon and arrested a man.

On Monday there were a further 165 arrests for a similar range of offences. Police also revealed there were further assaults on cops, including sexual assaults, while the officer who was bitten had to be treated in hospital.

It comes after two days of steel drums, barbecues and flamboyant headdresses, drew to a close last night.

Council teams are now swarming across west London to sweep up and tidy mounds of rubbish after two million revellers descended en masse for this year's carnival which sadly turned ugly on the second day.

Hundreds of thousands of partygoers massed in Kensington for a sunny 'carnival climax' yesterday, which saw the adults' parade kick off in the morning before a feast of music took over the streets.

A colourful parade at Notting Hill where people celebrated on the streets of London
READ MORE: 12,000 sign petition to kick out Alexee Trevizo from university after she was accused of murdering her newborn baby

She is being held without bond by Alabama cops and may face death penalty

The high school graduate, from Dothan, gave birth to a son on August 13

A teenager who left her newborn son in a dumpster shortly after giving birth may face the death penalty after she was arrested and charged for his murder.

Jakayla Williams, an 18-year-old from Dothan, Alabama, is currently being held without bail on one count of capital murder after cops found her son's lifeless body wrapped in a blanket stuffed inside a dumpster near an apartment complex.

She admitted to Dothan Police Department detectives that she did not want to look after her child because the cost of childcare was too high.

She reportedly gave birth to the baby at her home in secret, but when her family found out she was pregnant, she lied and said she had given birth at the Southeast Health Medical Centre.

Wanting to recover the child, her family took Jakayla, a recent graduate of local Dothan High School, to the healthcare center, where the teen claimed that she had given her baby to an employee.

Jakayla Williams, an 18-year-old from Dothan, Alabama, (pictured) is currently being held without bail on one count of capital murder

The recent high school graduate admitted to Dothan Police Department detectives that she did not want to look after her child because the cost of childcare was too high

She told her family she brought the baby to the Southeast Health Medical Center in Dothan

But the center's employees reviewed CCTV footage and found that Jakayla had not left her baby with them.

They contacted the Dothan Police Department, who subsequently found her lifeless baby amidst a load of rubbish.

The exact cause the child's death is unknown, though an autopsy for the child has been ordered.

Will Benny, the chief of Dothan Police, said at a press conference: 'It is absolutely shocking. In all my years of law enforcement, I've never heard of anything so horrific as this.

'It shocks the mind. It shocks the soul. I don't even really know what else to say about it.'

Local prosecutors say they are still weighing up the punishment they will be pursuing for the teen

In a tragic twist, the top cop said that, had Jakayla gone to hospital, employees would have accepted care of the now-dead infant under Alabama's 'no questions asked policy.'

It is not currently clear what Jakayla's fate will be, should she be found guilty of her capital murder charge.

Local prosecutors say they are still weighing up the punishment they will be pursuing in this case.

Houston County's District Attorney Russ Goodman declined to comment on whether his office would try and sentence the 18-year-old to death.

'It's something that we have not even discussed,' he told local news station WTVY following her arrest.

'That will be a decision that is made down the road.'

While prosecutors may not have decided whether to send Jakayla to death row, her state's capital punishment figures may give her cause for concern.

Alabama sentences more people to death per capita than any other US state, the Equal Justice Initiative says.

The state also doesn't impose an age limit on who can receive a death row sentence.

On top of this, the state allows death sentences to pass without unanimous juries.

The non-profit reports that 80% of people currently on death row in the state did not receive unanimous jury verdicts for death.
A private school in Uttar Pradesh, India, has been shut down after videos emerged of a teacher encouraging students to slap and beat their Muslim classmate.

Tripta Tyagi, a teacher at the Neha Public School, was filmed berating the seven-year-old boy, who was forced to stand at the front of the class before Tyagi invited other students to slap him in the face and back.

The boy is seen crying as different classmates step up to hit him.

'Why are you hitting him so lightly? Hit him harder,' Tyagi is heard saying. 'Hit him on the back... His face is turning red, so hit him on the back now,' she added.

The 60-year-old teacher, who now faces a police case after the boy's parents saw the video and filed a complaint, apologised for the incident but insisted she did not target the pupil because of his faith - but simply because he hadn't completed his homework.

'I accept with folded hands that I made a mistake. But I did not have any Hindu-Muslim divide in mind,' she said, having previously defended her actions as being necessary for maintaining discipline among the students.

Although the boy's father told India Today there would be 'no compromise' with the teacher over her actions, he also claimed the incident was not religiously motivated, telling NDTV that 'this is not a Hindu-Muslim' problem.

'Why are you hitting him so lightly? Hit him harder,' the teacher is heard saying. The boy is seen receiving a slap from a classmate

The 60-year-old teacher, who now faces a police case after the boy's parents saw the video and filed a complaint, apologised for the incident but insisted she did not target the pupil because of his faith

The boy's father revealed his son was so upset after the ordeal that he stopped eating and began chattering and speaking nonsense

The Neda Public School was closed in the wake of the incident after authorities deemed the establishment had failed meet educational standards.

Details about the school conditions have also come to light, with reports suggesting inadequate facilities such as a lack of lighting, fans, and proper class sections.

Officials later revealed that the students affected will be relocated to government schools or nearby alternatives.

The local education authority has also offered to place the young victim in a local government school free of charge, should the family agree to it.

It comes after the boy's father revealed his son was so upset after the ordeal that he stopped eating and began chattering and speaking nonsense.

'He was very upset, did not eat for two days. He also started rambling. We can only wonder what how such an incident can impact a small boy,' he told NDTV, adding that the seven-year-old's sleeping pattern was also disrupted.

The boy was eventually taken for a medical check-up.

'The doctor told us he needs some privacy. We ensured that, and now he is better,' his father said.
James Cleverly will visit China tomorrow amid speculation that Rishi Sunak will hold face-to-face talks with Xi Jinping at the G20 summit.

The trip by Mr Cleverly will be the first by a Foreign Secretary since 2018 - amid spiking tensions over Beijing's oppressive policies.

He has promised he will raise concerns over human rights, the dispute with Taiwan, and the treatment of Hong Kong during his trip.

But there are mounting signs that the government wants to engage with the Asian superpower.

Diplomats are believed to be preparing the ground for a meeting between the PM and Xi should the Chinese premier opt to attend the G20 gathering in India next week.

However, the warmer relations could spark a backlash from China hawks on the Conservative benches.

James Cleverly (pictured) will visit China tomorrow amid speculation that Rishi Sunak will hold face-to-face talks with Xi Jinping at the G20 summit

Diplomats are believed to be preparing the ground for a meeting between the PM and Xi should the Chinese premier opt to attend the G20 gathering in India next week

MPs have been voicing alam about Beijing's increasing influence and aggressive tactics on the world stage.

Mr Cleverly will hold bilateral meetings with China's minister of foreign affairs Wang Yi and vice president Han Zheng during his trip to Beijing.

The Foreign Secretary said: 'It is important we manage our relationship with China across a range of issues.

'No significant global problem  from climate change to pandemic prevention, from economic instability to nuclear proliferation  can be solved without China.

'China's size, history and global significance means they cannot be ignored, but that comes with a responsibility on the global stage.

'That responsibility means China fulfilling its international commitments and obligations.'

Mr Cleverly follows in the footsteps of US counterpart Antony Blinken, who visited Beijing in June.

The Foreign Secretary is already in Asia, visiting the Philippines today as part of the Government's strategy of bolstering ties in the Indo-Pacific region in response to China's rise as an emerging superpower.
The final pictures of Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin, who was killed in a fiery plane crash near Moscow last week, have emerged.

Prigozhin was seen snapping selfies with locals in what is thought to be Bangui, the capital of the Central African Republic - just one of many African nations where the Wagner Group is deployed.

The mercenary leader, who had traded his typical military fatigues for plain civilian clothes, was surrounded by beaming locals who appeared thrilled to meet the Russian oligarch, posing for pictures, shaking hands and embracing the notorious figure.

Shortly after the meet and greet with Bangui residents, Prigozhin went to Mali where he once again donned military fatigues and clasped a rifle as he waxed lyrical about his cherished Wagner Group's efforts to 'make the whole continent of Africa happier'.

'We are working... the temperature is above 50 degrees C, just how we like it... Wagner makes Russia greater on all continents, and Africa more free,' he declared.

Days later, he was killed in a plane crash widely seen as retribution from Putin and the Kremlin after Prigozhin and a contingent of Wagner Group mercenaries staged a short-lived mutiny against the Russian Defence Ministry in June.

Prigozhin was seen snapping selfies with locals in what was allegedly Bangui, the capital of the Central African Republic

The mercenary leader, who had traded his typical military fatigues for plain civilian clothes, was surrounded by beaming locals

The pictures are believed to be the last of Prigozhin before he died in a plane crash last week

The release of the images on social media comes after Russian authorities officially confirmed Prigozhin's death on Saturday.

The confirmation puts to rest any doubts about whether the mercenary leader turned mutineer was on the plane that crashed on Wednesday, killing everyone on board.

Genetic testing on the 10 bodies recovered at the crash site 'conform to the manifest' for the flight, Russian investigative committee spokeswoman Svetlana Petrenko said.

Russia's civil aviation authority had said Prigozhin and some of his top lieutenants were on the list of seven passengers and three crew members.

The investigative committee did not indicate what might have caused the business jet to plummet from the sky halfway between Moscow and St Petersburg, Prigozhin's hometown.

But the crash's timing raised suspicions of a possible Kremlin-orchestrated hit, while Prigozhin's chameleon-like background allowed for speculation that he was not on the plane or had somehow escaped death.

Two months ago, Prigozhin, 62, mounted a day-long mutiny against Russia's military, leading his mercenaries from Ukraine towards Moscow. Russian President Vladimir Putin decried the act as 'treason' and vowed punishment for those involved.

The fatal plane crash was widely seen as retribution from Putin (pictured) and the Kremlin after Prigozhin and a contingent of Wagner Group mercenaries staged a short-lived mutiny against the Russian Defence Ministry in June

Smoke and flames rise from Prigozhin's crashed private jet near the village of Kuzhenkino on Wednesday

A woman lays a candle at a makeshift memorial for late head of Wagner paramilitary group, Yevgeny Prigozhin in Moscow, on August 27, 2023

People stand next to an informal street memorial for Wagner Group's military group members killed in a plane crash

Law enforcement officers stand guard by the entrance to the Serafimovskoye cemetery in Saint Petersburg, where Prigozhin is likely to be buried, on August 29, 2023

Instead, the Kremlin quickly cut a deal with Prigozhin to end the armed revolt, saying he would be allowed to walk free without facing any charges and to resettle in Belarus.

But questions remained about whether the former ally of Russia's leader would face consequences for the brief uprising that posed the biggest challenge to Putin's authority of his 23-year rule.

A preliminary US intelligence assessment concluded that an intentional explosion caused the plane to go down. As suspicions grew that the Russian president was the architect of an assassination, the Kremlin rejected them as a 'complete lie'.

One of the Western officials who described the initial assessment said it determined that Prigozhin was 'very likely' targeted and that an explosion would be in line with Putin's 'long history of trying to silence his critics'.

Wagner co-founder and former special forces operative Dmitry Utkin, as well as Wagner logistics mastermind Valery Chekalov, were also killed in the crash.

The fate of Wagner, which until recently played a prominent role in Russia's military campaign in Ukraine and was involved in a number of African and Middle Eastern countries, is uncertain.

Meanwhile, the Kremlin confirmed today that Meanwhile, the Kremlin confirmed today that Putin is not planning to attend the funeral of Prigozhin or other Wagner commanders killed in the crash.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov wouldn't say where or when the chief of the Wagner Group military company would be buried, although some Russian media suggested it could take place as early as Tuesday in Prigozhin's home city of St. Petersburg.

St. Petersburg's Fontanka news outlet and some other media said Prigozhin will likely be put to rest at the Serafimovskoye cemetery, which has previously been used for high-profile military burials.

On Tuesday, heavy police cordons encircled the cemetery, where Putin's parents are also buried. Increased police presence was also reported at some other city cemeteries.
Boasting a tranquil bay, picturesque cliffs perfect for a long coastal walk and multi-million pound homes hidden from prying eyes, an unassuming Cornish village is rapidly becoming a highly-coveted celebrity enclave.

Located just four miles north of Newquay, the untouched bay of Mawgan Porth on Cornwall's rugged northern coastline is a hot-spot for surfers and locals alike who enjoy its stunning sandy beaches and breathtaking scenery.

But, after it was revealed that Aquaman star Jason Momoa became the latest A-lister to try and snap up a swanky home here, it's beginning to become clear to see why locals have dubbed it 'Hollywood-on-Sea'.

The 44-year-old actor could soon be rubbing shoulders with the likes of Oscar winning actress Cate Blanchett, Jason Statham and Stanley Tucci - who all have the opportunity to bring their private jets and private chefs with them.

So, what is it that makes Mawgan Porth (or Porth Maugan, which translates to 'St Mawgan's cove' in Cornish), just so popular with the Hollywood elite?

A new development underway atop the cliffs in Mawgan Porth - ideal for a Bond villain

This 12 bedroom, 10 en-suite detached property is on the market for 2,900,000

This Cornish farmhouse has gone up for sale for 1,200,000

When we typically think of A-listers and their fancy residences in England, you would probably imagine a beautiful mansion in Primrose Hill or Knightsbridge - but it appears the south west of England has become the new celebrity hotspot.

Cate Blanchett was the first to buy her 2million property in Mawgan Porth before Jason Statham, actress Imogen Stubbs, Fifty Shades of Grey actor Jamie Dornan and Hollywood actor Stanley Tucci followed her lead.

READ MORE: Locals in Cornwall left baffled at 'idiot' tourists parking their cars on popular beach Advertisement

A-listers can enjoy LA-style luxury with the privacy the West Country offers.

And with mansions tailor-made for each celeb complete with their own private chefs, helicopter pads and personal walkways to the beach - it's no wonder so many are heading to an area such as Mawgan Porth.

In 2021, it emerged Oscar-winning actress Cate, 54, had snapped up a property in the town with her agent later confirming that the news was true.

A source told MailOnline: 'The talk of Mawgan Porth is that Cate has bought a home here!' Cate's PR rep simply said 'yes' when asked if she was about to become Mawgan Porth's first star resident.

Since then, she is thought to have been followed by Hollywood star Jamie Dornan, known for his starring turn as Christian Grey in the 'Fifty Shades' film series.

Just a few months after it was revealed that Blanchett was living there, a fan couldn't believe it when they spotted Dornan at a local petrol station.

Alongside a selfie of herself and Jamie, she wrote on Instagram: 'I went to get fuel and thought no way it can't be but it was Mr grey himself!'(sic)

Neighbours: Oscar-winning actress Cate Blanchett, 54, has a holiday home in Cornwall

Moving in? Aquaman star Jason Momoa, 44, is the latest A-lister to snap up a swanky mansion in the picturesque Cornish village of Mawgan Porth, near Newquay

On the market: Jason Momoa has been spotted by locals eyeing-up a clifftop home which the locals have dubbed Hollywood-on-Sea

Pictured: Mawgan Porth In Cornwall, which locals have dubbed 'Hollywood-on-Sea'

Also rumoured to have snapped up a home in the village is Snatch and Lock Stock and Two Smoking Barrels star Jason Statham and supermodel wife Rosie Huntington Whiteley - who hails from nearby Devon.

Actor Stanley Tucci - a self-confessed foodie who would no doubt love Cornwall's culinary delights - is also said to have purchased a home in Mawgan Porth with his wife Felicity Blunt - sister of his The Devil Wears Prada co-star, Emily Blunt.

In 2021, the American star revealed he had been on a 'road trip to Cornwall'.

He told Instagram followers he was enjoying his 'Tucci eggplant parmagiana' while enjoying the sights of the West Country.

The small village of Mawgan Porth was also the home of famed German sculptor Faust Lang from 1936 to 1949.

When news broke out that Momoa was planning on moving to Mawgan Porth, one local suggested he 'fell in love' with the pace of life in the scenic area after filming his blockbuster DC move in nearby Devon.

They added: 'These kinds of home are being transformed into the luxury places you see on Grand Designs, so he would be able to make it very special. It's the talk of Mawgan that Jason is going to be the next big star moving in.'

The West Country's long-standing food reputation is also a factor in pushing celebs to the West Country as high-profile chefs such as Rick Stein, Nathan Outlaw and Jamie Oliver have a number of restaurants in the area.

To go alongside that - Mawgan Porth in particular remains a largely undeveloped and unspoilt paradise boasting a close-knit and friendly community, which ensures a greater level of privacy compared to city-life.

Artist Toby Ray told Cornwall Live: 'The amount of space there is to explore is phenomenal and the surf is real

A look at where Mawgan Porth is located just four miles away from Newquay

Pictured: The fan who couldn't believe it when she saw Jamie Dornan at a local petrol station

Jamie Dornan, pictured at the EE Bafta awards earlier this year, also has a house in the town, which translates to 'St Mawgan's cove' in Cornish

Hollywood actor and foodie Stanley Tucci also lives in the picturesque Cornish village

What their movie millions could buy: This six-bed mansion overlooking the beach is on the market for 2,250,000

'I find the locals to be really friendly and compared with other spots, the line up is quite quiet even when the beach is super busy. You also have some pretty amazing clifftop walks.'

An Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty with few building developments, Mawgan Porth truly considers itself 'Cornwall's Best Kept Secret'.

Its perfect surfing conditions may also have been a factor in luring A-listers familiar with the beaches of California.

And with a number of flights daily between Newquay airport and Heathrow and designated landing areas for helicopters, international travel is easier than ever for the rich and famous travelling from afar to their Cornish bolthole.

Andrew Adams, a buying agent specialising in Somerset, Bristol and Bath, told The Times: 'Each of these airports has seen a significant increase in private aircraft usage in the past few years as the region has become more popular with high net worth purchasers.'

There are also growing numbers of designated landing areas for helicopters, making it possible to have homes in traditionally harder-to-reach rural parts of the region.

Above all, perhaps, is the village's unrivalled privacy. Clare Coode, a buying agent with Stacks Property Search in Cornwall, told The Times: 'Everyone wants privacy, but celebs coming here are obsessed with it.

'One famous buyer insisted that the agents walk up every hill for miles around to ensure the house he wanted couldn't be snapped by the paparazzi. He rejected the house in the end for that reason, even though it was perfect in every other way,' she says.

Direct access to the water away from the masses of people is also a top priority.

Located just four miles north of Newquay, the seaside town is a hot-spot for surfers who line its stunning sandy beaches

Snatch star Jason Statham joined the likes of Blanchett and Tucci in Mawgan Porth

Along the coast of Dorset, neighbours include Harry Redknapp, Julian Fellowes and Jonathan Ross. Sean Bean and Deborah Meaden of Dragons' Den live in Somerset while Peter Andre also has a home in Taunton.

However, while some people are 'excited' at the thought of going about everyday tasks and finding themselves browsing in the supermarket next to a DC superhero in Momoa, not all locals thrilled at the idea of celebrities descending on the village.

Some argue that on top of the housing crisis, the influx of holiday rentals, second home owners and celebs moving into the area is making it even harder for younger generations to stay.

According to census data, Cornwall is the most popular destination in the UK for a second home, with 6,080 holiday homes used by 14,230 people.

Across the UK, second-home owners could soon be forced to pay twice the amount of council tax as the Government prepares to hand local authorities more powers to raid holiday homes.

More than 100,000 holiday homeowners are also set to see their bills rise at the first given chance, including in tourist hotspots in Devon, the Lake District, Norfolk and Cornwall, which have already approved the change.

Additionally, some have complained it is unfair that these incredible homes are only being sold privately and the press or public are unable to see any floor plans or prices, which attracts famous buyers.

Many celebs request that selling agents remove any 'digital footprint' on property websites.
Aussies have been urged to check their barbecues after one homeowner was horrified to find a monster snake tucked away underneath the grill.

The Queensland resident made the chilling discovery, when he went to put the gas bottle back inside the barbecue.

Footage shows Stuart McKenzie from Sunshine Coast Snake Catchers 24//7, removing the carpet python which had become stuck inside.

Moments later, Mr McKenzie lifts the two-metre long reptile out of the barbecue.

'Out you come... get you out of the barbecue and back into the bush,' Mr McKenzie says.

The six-foot snake perched was found inside the barbecue at a home in Queensland after it made it's way underneath the grill

He explained to the resident the snake is only an infant - despite it's size.

'This one's still only... probably three or four year old,' he said.

'He's not a bad length...this one's probably over six-foot... six-and-a-half feet'.

Mr McKenzie said the animal can grow up to as long as three metres.

He warned people to 'double check' their outdoor cooking areas before using, as he has been called out to a number of homes to remove snakes that were found inside.

'The barbecue is essentially a perfect spot for snakes to hang out because if there's leftover food scraps often the rats come in, so snakes will come in after the rodents,' he told Yahoo News Australia.

It comes as the weather begins to warm up across Australia with experts predicting an early snake season across the country.

Stuart McKenzie from Sunshine Coast Snake Catchers, warned Aussies to look after their outdoor cooking equipment with experts predicting an early snake season across Australia

Billy Collett, Operations Manager at the Australian Reptile Park, said Australia is in for a long snake season due to the early onset of warmer conditions.

'We're going to see juveniles earlier this season,' he told Daily Mail Australia recently.

'We've come out of two unbelievably wet years where.. snakes didn't breed as much'.

'This season we should see a lot of babies'.
He is a known sex offender & lived next to the park

A man on parole for child sex offences was allowed to live next door to a kid's playground where he is accused of filming himself raping a 14-year-old girl in a public toilet.

Billy Smith, 46, has been charged with multiple child sex offences including aggravated sexual intercourse child aged under-16, using a child aged over-14 to make child abuse material and producing child abuse material.

Smith allegedly took the cognitively impaired girl into a toilet block and sexually assaulted her at Pole Depot Park in Penshurst in Sydney's south between 7:30am and 8:30am on Monday.

Police launched a manhunt to find him after the girl reported the alleged assault.

Smith is a registered sex offender and was on parole serving a prison sentence for similar offences at the time of the alleged crime.

Billy Smith, 46, was on parole for child sex offences and allowed to live next door to a kid's playground where he is accused of filming himself raping a 14-year-old girl in a public toilet

He had been released from jail back in May but was permitted to live in a unit block next door to a daycare centre and the children's park where the attack is alleged to have occurred, according to court documents.

Police attended the park a short time after the girl made the report, established a crime scene and arrested Smith at his unit about 5pm Monday.

NSW Police on Tuesday released a photo of Smith donning hi-vis work gear and handcuffs while he was being escorted away by officers.

Detectives allege Smith not only raped the teenager but also filmed the alleged assault.

Smith allegedly assaulted the girl, 14, in Pole Depot Park (pictured) in Penshurst on Monday morning. He lives in a unit block next door to the park, according to court documents

Smith had allegedly taken the girl to the toilet block at the park (pictured) where detectives allege he not only raped her but also filmed the alleged assault

He was taken to Kogarah Police Station and also charged with breaching a prohibition order relating to the parole matter.

Smith spent the night in custody and appeared in Sutherland Local Court on Tuesday, where he was formally refused bail.

He will remain behind bars until his next court appearance in Downing Centre Local Court on October 26.
The macabre story of the original 'Whitechapel murder' committed 14 years before Jack the Ripper terrorised the streets is revealed in a new book.

Respected businessman Henry Wainwright lived with his wife and five children in a three-floor London townhouse in apparent domestic bliss.

But everything changed when the entrepreneur brush maker, who employed over 100 people, fell in love with teenage milliner Harriet Lane.

The womaniser had two illegitimate children and Wainwright set up lodgings for her, while also developing a bad gambling habit.

He racked up so much debt with various bookmakers he found himself in 1874 on the verge of bankruptcy.

Unable to support Harriet anymore on top of his large family, he took the drastic decision to murder her.

The macabre story of the original 'Whitechapel murder' committed 14 years before Jack the Ripper terrorised the streets is revealed in a new book. Respected businessman Henry Wainwright lived with his wife and five children in a three-floor London townhouse in apparent domestic bliss. Above: A pamphlet reporting the trial of Wainright and his brother Thomas, who helped him hide his lover's body

One night in September 1874, Wainwright lured Harriet to his Whitechapel warehouse.

He shot her three times in the back of the head then slit her throat in a gruesome crime, roping in his brother Thomas to help him hide the body.

They stashed her under the factory floorboards in the basement in a move imitated in the 1940s by the Rillington Place serial killer John Christie.

Harriet remained concealed there for a year before Wainwright had to sell the premises as he had finally run out of money.

Fearful the next occupant may discover the corpse, he dug her up and chopped her in half to transport her remains across London to a warehouse in Borough Market.

He asked a labourer, Alfred Stokes, to help them carry heavy parcels containing her dismembered body parts.

everything changed when the entrepreneur brush maker, who employed over 100 people, fell in love with teenage milliner Harriet Lane. On the verge of bankruptcy and unable to support her, he decided to murder the young woman (depicted above)

Taken aback at how much one of the parcels weighed, Stokes opened it up and found her severed head in it.

Wainwright had gone to hail a cab so Stokes pretended nothing was amiss and helped lift the parcels into the vehicle.

Stokes later recalled: 'I felt as if I must do it. I opened it, and the first thing I saw was a human head, and then proceeding further I saw a hand which had been cut off at the wrist, and then I had the presence of mind to cover it up again quick and wait till Mr Wainwright returned with a four-wheeled cab.'

Stokes sprinted behind the cab as it travelled across London, flagging down a policeman en route to inform him of Wainwright's intentions.

They chased Wainwright across London Bridge and the officer stopped him as he got out the cab on Southwark high street.

The businessman, who had a large cigar in his mouth, was forced to open the parcels.

Inside were 'the scalp of a human head, fingers and other remains with a foul stench'.

He offered a huge bribe of 200 - 15,000 in today's morning - for him to turn a blind eye.

A report by PC Turner said Wainwright told him: 'Don't open it, policeman, pray don't look at it, whatever you do don't touch it'.

One night in September 1874, Wainwright lured Harriet to his Whitechapel warehouse. He shot her three times in the back of the head then slit her throat in a gruesome crime, roping in his brother Thomas to help him hide the body. Above: : A scene showing police discovering the body of Harriet Lane

He added: 'I then pulled the cloth over, and my fingers came across the scalp of a head, across the ear.

'I found that it contained part of the remains of a human body.

'The prisoner said, "I will give you 100. I will give you 200 and produce the money in twenty minutes if you will let me go".'

The Murder of the Whitechapel Mistress: Victorian London's Sensational Murder Mystery, by Neil Watson

The officer refused the bribe and Wainwright was arrested and charged with murder.

He was found guilty at a high-profile Old Bailey trial and hanged in December 1875, aged 43.

Wainwright's dramatic rise and fall is told in unprecedented detail in The Murder of the Whitechapel Mistress, by Neil Watson.

Mr Watson, 66, from Harrow, a retired police officer with a 30 year Metropolitan Police career, has meticulously analysed three large case files about the murder in the National Archives at Kew.

The dozens of documents included a 50 page statement from Wainwright claiming it was his brother who committed the murder on his behalf, which he strenuously denied.

Mr Watson, who is a member of the Whitechapel Society, said: 'This crime really has everything you want in a Victorian 'whodunnit'.

'The "Whitechapel Murder" caused a sensation in the capital which kept the newspapers engaged for several months.

'The hacks chased a juicy story of a wealthy and respectable Henry Wainwright living a double life which ended in the brutal murder of a young, attractive mother.

Wainwright shot her three times in the back of the head then slit her throat in a gruesome crime, roping in his brother Thomas to help him hide the body

He asked a labourer, Alfred Stokes, to help them carry heavy parcels containing her dismembered body parts

Police chased Wainwright across London Bridge and the officer stopped him as he got out the cab on Southwark high street

'Unlike the more sordid events of 1888 when all the victims of a certain "Jack the Ripper" were from East End slum dwellings, our earlier outrage was of an altogether more upmarket variety.

'It was also a more successful investigation for the hard-pressed officers of the Metropolitan Police who nabbed their suspect literally, red handed.

'This was a remarkable story of wickedness, deception, lust, conspiracy, tragedy, and a man who was prepared to gamble with his life.

'Henry Wainwright was an unsuccessful card player who left many lives ruined in his wake.

'His life, which had started so brightly, went seriously off the rails in 1874, leading to his appearance in the dock of the Old Bailey a year later.

'We must not forget Harriet Lane, the victim of the tragedy.'

The notorious Jack the Ripper, whose identity remains a mystery despite dozens of suspects being named by historians and amateur sleuths, murdered five women in Whitechapel in 1888.

The Murder of the Whitechapel Mistress, by Neil Watson, will be published by Pen & Sword on September 30 and costs 25.
Police investigators are hopeful that they will finally be able to charge suspects implicated in the grand theft of a 5million gold toilet stolen from Blenheim Palace.

The 18-carat gold toilet designed as part of an exhibition by Italian artist Maurizio Cattelan was taken in a raid at the Oxfordshire stately home on September 14 2019 - just a day after it had been unveiled.

And despite four years passing and police arresting seven suspects in that time, investigators are still yet to formally charge anyone in connection with the burglary.

However police have reportedly now sent files over to prosecutors raising the chances of charges being applied, according to the Sun.

It is up to the Crown Prosecution Service to now decide whether to charge any of the seven suspects - six men aged 36 to 68 and a woman, 38 - previously arrested.

The 18-carat gold toilet was unveiled at Blenheim Palace, Oxfordshire, as part of an exhibition by Italian artist Maurizio Cattelan, before it was stolen

The thieves ripped the expensive appliance from the fittings and made off with it

The statement toilet, valued at 4.8million and entitled 'America' by its artist Maurizio Cattelan, was fitted in at the Guggenheim Museum in New York in 2016 and 100,000 people queued to use it.

It was moved to Blenheim and into a chamber opposite the room where Winston Churchill was born for Cattelan's first solo UK show in more than 20 years.

Speaking at the time of the theft, artist Cattelan said he hoped the theft was a prank and asked 'who's so stupid to steal a toilet? [The work titled] America was the one per cent for the 99 per cent'.

The palace's chief executive Dominic Hare said he hoped the 'pointless' act of stealing would 'immortalise' the work and defended the home's 'sophisticated security system' at the time it went missing.

The theft was carried out at Blenheim Palace in September 2019

He said it was 'deeply ironic' for the work 'portraying the American Dream' and the elite object made available to all was 'instantly snatched away and hidden from view'.

It is thought that the loo was melted down following the theft and used to create jewellery.

A Thames Valley Police spokesman said: 'A number of individuals remain released under investigation in relation to this case.

'A file of evidence is with the CPS for a decision to be made on any charges.'

A CPS spokesperson said: 'We have received a full file of evidence from Thames Valley Police following an investigation in relation to this case and are considering the material in line with our legal test.'
A heartbroken fiancee has spoken of the moment she heard a 'horrific noise' before finding her fit and healthy 48-year-old partner had suffered a fatal heart attack.

David Darling lived with Jess Thorne and their five children, aged 10, five, four, two and 16 months, in the West Australian mining town of Boddington, 170km south-east of Perth.

Mr Darling collapsed into a lotus position while showering on the morning of July 28 in what a coroner ruled was a 'massive heart attack'.

Ms Thorne said the couple had seen the family doctor for a check-up only three days earlier and and there were no signs anything was wrong.

David Darling (right with fiancee Jess Thorne) died suddenly of a massive heart attack last month

'He was exactly the same as he always is, he was laughing and joking and full of life,' she told Daily Mail Australia on Tuesday.

'Nothing was different there were no signs it just happened.

'How the hell can this happen to someone who was doing everything right?'

The day he died, Mr Darling was planning to do no more than a grocery run and other 'just normal stuff'.

However, that morning Ms Thorne, 39, was woken up by 'a horrific noise' that she described as 'almost a wailing and gurgling at the same time'.

'I shot straight up in bed,' Ms Thorne said.

'I looked over, he was gone.'

Ms Thorne heard water running in the shower but there was no response when she knocked on the locked door, which caused her to begin yelling for Mr Darling.

Getting increasingly frantic, Ms Thorne was able to break open the bathroom door with a butter knife.

Mr Darling, who was only 48 at the time of his death, was a keen fisherman who liked to involve his kids

'As I looked down he was staring straight up back at me,' Ms Thorne said.

Mr Darling was poised cross-legged on the shower floor.

Unfortunately her three eldest children were also watching what was happening until she managed to herd them into the living room away from the traumatic sight.

Ms Thorne desperately performed CPR on Mr Darling and paramedics took over 35 minutes later but all efforts to revive him were futile.

Ms Thorne said Mr Darling's only health issue was Type 2 diabetes but 'he was doing exceptionally well managing it'.

'We were healthy eating the whole lot to make sure the kids had really good role models,' she said.

She said he was extremely fit.

'He was very much into his martial arts always practicing with the kids that how our TV ended up getting smashed,' she said.

Mr Thorne (pictured right) has been left to look after the couple's five children after her partner's shocking death

Ms Thorne said the family were still very much in shock.

'We're broken. We're shattered,' Ms Thorne said.

'The kids understand that Daddy's not coming back.

'My littlest one after it happened she would look at the toys she and her daddy would play with and she will not touch them anymore.

'It's so hard to convince my boys to get of the car and come into the house.'

Ms Thorne and Mr Darling met when he was police officer working in the Northern Territory in May 2010.

They have been engaged since Melbourne Cup day that same year and were set to get married in December.

'We loved fishing, travelling exploring new places all the time,' Ms Thorne said.

'From Darwin, we moved over to Broome and then we went over to Queensland and we came back to the Pilbara and then we went to Perth and finally to Boddington.

'We were just looking forward to doing extensions on the home.'

Mr Darling and Ms Thorne were set to get married at the end of year having been engaged since Melbourne Cup day 2010

'We had a patch of heaven that we wanted to make our own. Creating something that was ours.'

To help pay for Mr Darling's funeral on September 5 and other expenses, Ms Thorne has started a GoFundMe page.

'As David was our main provider whist I was home raising our young children, his sudden passing has left not only a giant hole in each and everyone of our hearts,' she wrote.

'But it's also come with the unfortunate reality of having to fund a funeral at short notice along with our normal day to day needs on top.'

By Tuesday night, the page had raised just over $2,000 of its $8,500 goal.

Mr Darling was described as a hardworking provider and family man to his five children

'My David was a family man, a hard-working provider and a friend to do many,' Ms Thoren wrote.

'He was always looking out for anyone in need and helping in any way humanly possible, that's just who he was! So now I sit here for the first time in my life asking for help.'

Ms Thorne said that once she finds her own two feet again after Mr Darling's funeral she will try for a job in the mine.

Until then everyday still brings painful reminders of her loss, even something as ordinary as a set of kettlebell weights.

'We doing weight training six, sometimes seven days a week,' she says

'We fell in love with it and it was our passion, which is really hard because every day I walk into the bedroom and they are all lined up where we finished with them.'
Nadine Dorries formally quit as an MP today leaving the Tories facing another by-election test.

The former Culture Secretary has been appointed Steward and Bailiff of the Three Hundreds of Chiltern - the arcane mechanism for leaving the Commons.

Confirmation of Ms Dorries' exit paves the way for a contest in her former Mid Bedfordshire seat.

Tory gloom about their prospects of holding on in what is typically an ultra-safe constituency have been heightened by polls consistently showing Labour with a double-digit lead nationally.

But there could be a glimmer of hope for the PM as the de facto Lib-Lab pact that helped defeat the Conservatives in other recent by-elections seems to have stumbled.

Former Culture Secretary Nadine Dorries has been appointed Steward and Bailiff of the Three Hundreds of Chiltern - the arcane mechanism for leaving the Commons

Tory gloom about their prospects of holding on in what is typically an ultra-safe constituency have been heightened by polls consistently showing Labour with a double-digit lead nationally

How do MPs resign? The arcane procedures in the Commons do not include any direct way for an MP to resign - they can only die or be expelled. As a result, anyone who wants to leave in the middle of a Parliament must use a quirky process. This involves the Treasury appointing them as Steward and Bailiff of either the Chiltern Hundreds or the Manor of Northstead. These posts were traditionally paid by the Crown, and whoever holds them is disqualified from sitting in the Commons. Nowadays they are are unpaid, and they alternate between MPs who want to resign. Advertisement

Both Keir Starmer's party and the Lib Dems are insisting they are best-placed to win Mid Beds - meaning they could split the opposition vote.

The contest is expected to happen in October, as the 'writ' ordering the by-election can only be moved when Parliament returns on September 4. The by-election then happens between 21 and 27 working days later.

Ms Dorries penned a damning resignation letter over the weekend demanding Mr Sunak returns to vote-winning Conservative policies.

She predicted he would lead the party to defeat at the next general election - and refused to say whether she would vote Tory herself.

Downing Street has maintained a careful silence on Ms Dorries' critique as the PM desperately tries not to fuel infighting.

Speaking on a visit to a new-build housing estate near Norwich today, Mr Sunak told broadcasters: 'I'm grateful to Nadine for her service both as an MP and a minister.

'We are looking forward, and delighted to support our fantastic candidate in Mid Beds, Festus Akinbusoye, who is the local candidate, the only local candidate in this election; also the local police and crime commissioner.'

Held by the Tories for almost a century, Mid Beds has become a safe seat under Ms Dorries, with her majority increasing from 11,355 in 2005 to 24,664 in 2019.

Lib Dem leader Sir Ed Davey will visit Mid Beds later today - the fourth time he has been there since Ms Dorries originally announced her intention of quitting early this summer.
A police officer was sexually assaulted and another is in hospital after a violent end to Notting Hill Carnival, which saw eight people stabbed in one night.

Video footage emerged today of a gang of youths, one holding a suspected machete, running down a west London street dressed in black and mostly wearing balaclavas as the extent of the brutality witnessed at the event was laid bare.

The Metropolitan Police Federation, which represents rank-and-file staff, described attacks on 75 officers as 'absolutely disgusting'.

It revealed how six officers were bitten, one was sexually assaulted and one was injured so badly they ended up in hospital.

'No wonder our members dread policing this event,' a tweet from the federation said.

A boy with his hood up waving what appears to be a machete in the air

A boy appears to point the suspected machete at another person on the floor

Chaotic scenes at Notting Hill Carnival on Monday, pictured around the Ladbroke Grove area

People stood back as the boy appeared to wave the suspected machete in the air

A gang of youths run down a street at Notting Hill Carnival - a boy at the back is holding what appears to be a machete

A boy holding what appears to be a machete runs down the street with a group of youths

A group of boys dressed in black, some with balaclavas, run down a Notting Hill street

Police on horseback follow the boys as a large crowd watches on

A boy appears to be on the floor at the back, but is later seen getting up in the footage

Police detain a young man in Ladbroke Grove on Monday

It comes as a shocking photograph shows a boy waving what appears to be a huge machete in the air, while another picture shows the same boy appearing to point the 'weapon' at a person who is on the ground.

As the boys run away, police on horseback try and chase after the group, with a large crowd watching on.

Tory mayoral candidate calls for carnival to move location The Conservative Party's London mayoral candidate Susan Hall today called for the carnival to be moved and potentially held in a park, saying police 'don't want to be there'. However, a spokesman for London mayor Sadiq Khan said the event was 'born out of the Caribbean community in north Kensington and Notting Hill' and that this should 'remain its home'. Ms Hall told LBC: 'It's very upsetting and I'm afraid we have this every single year. It's an incredible thing, the Notting Hill Carnival. I would just say move it. Move it to where it can be policed much better than where it is now. 'Because it's so good and so successful, very, very many people go there, so it's very, very difficult to police, so I'd be urging people to look at somewhere else it could go.' Asked where it should be moved to, she added: 'Perhaps to a park. And let the organisers look and see where they would like it to be moved to. 'Of course, it is up to everybody else, it's not up to me at this specific point. I just comment that every year - all the accidents, all the stabbings, all the various things that go on that we would not want. 'And I talk to police officers daily, and they don't want to be there, quite frankly, because they know that they are in danger.' Advertisement

Some members in the group turn their heads to check behind them as they flee but others don't look back.

People commenting on the video have said 'that's why I don't go on Monday', which is 'adults day'.

The Metropolitan Police said that the final day of Notting Hill carnival was 'marred by serious violence' after eight people were stabbed in one night.

Detectives had praised the 'positive' and 'good-natured' atmosphere across the weekend but officers were forced into action after the carnival descended into violence on Bank Holiday Monday.

Police said that a 29-year-old man is in a critical condition after he was stabbed in Warfield Road, just off Harrow Road, shortly after 9pm. However, in the lead up to that incident, there were several other stabbings, while one officer was bitten.

A 19-year-old man was stabbed in Ladbroke Grove shortly before 8pm and remains in a serious but stable condition in hospital. Meanwhile, six other men aged 18, 19, 20, 25, 28 and 40 were stabbed in separate incidents. They sustained non life-threatening injuries.

The Met said they made a total of 275 arrests across the two days. On Sunday, there were 110 arrests for offences including possession of offensive weapons, assaults including on police officers, possession of drugs and sexual offences.

One man sustained a non life-changing slash wound but turned down help from the emergency services.

Officers also acted quickly to intercept a group who was in the possession of a firearm. They seized the weapon and arrested a man.

It came as the Conservative Party's London mayoral candidate Susan Hall called for the carnival to be moved and potentially held in a park, saying police 'don't want to be there'.

However, a spokesman for London mayor Sadiq Khan said the event was 'born out of the Caribbean community in north Kensington and Notting Hill' and that this should 'remain its home'.

Ms Hall told LBC: 'It's very upsetting and I'm afraid we have this every single year. It's an incredible thing, the Notting Hill Carnival. I would just say move it. Move it to where it can be policed much better than where it is now.

'Because it's so good and so successful, very, very many people go there, so it's very, very difficult to police, so I'd be urging people to look at somewhere else it could go.'

Asked where it should be moved to, she added: 'Perhaps to a park. And let the organisers look and see where they would like it to be moved to.

'Of course, it is up to everybody else, it's not up to me at this specific point. I just comment that every year - all the accidents, all the stabbings, all the various things that go on that we would not want.

'And I talk to police officers daily, and they don't want to be there, quite frankly, because they know that they are in danger.'

Police keep watch in numbers at Notting Hill Carnival on Monday

The Metropolitan Police has said that the final day of Notting Hill carnival was 'marred by serious violence' after eight people were stabbed in one night. Pictured: Police officers lead a man through the streets of west London

Detectives had praised the 'positive' and 'good-natured' atmosphere across the weekend but officers were forced into action after the carnival descended into violence on Bank Holiday Monday. Pictured: Two ambulances arrive at the scene

Pictured: A Met Police officer holds an evidence bag with a seized weapon in it on the final day of carnival

Council workers were in attendance until the early hours cleaning an enormous amount of waste from the area

On Monday there were a further 165 arrests for a similar range of offences. Police also revealed there were further assaults on cops, including sexual assaults, while the officer who was bitten had to be treated in hospital.

It comes after two days of steel drums, barbecues and flamboyant headdresses, drew to a close last night.

Hundreds of thousands of partygoers massed in Kensington for a sunny 'carnival climax' yesterday, which saw the adults' parade kick off in the morning before a feast of music took over the streets.

Celebrities including Lily Allen, Nick Grimshaw and Idris Elba, who hosted his own DJ set, were spotted enjoying the vibrant annual celebration of Caribbean culture and history.

Council teams are now swarming across west London to sweep up and tidy mounds of rubbish after two million revellers descended en masse for this year's carnival which sadly turned ugly on the second day.

The violence came after two days of steel drums, barbecues and flamboyant headdresses, Notting Hill Carnival drew to a close last night

Council crews are now swarming across west London to tidy up mounds of rubbish after two million revellers took to the streets

Canisters of nitrious oxide abandoned amongst rubbish at the site of the 2023 Notting Hill Carniva

The streets of the posh west London suburb are now covered in huge piles of rubbish

A large pile of discarded take away boxes sits on the side of the stained pavement

Colourfully costumed revellers paraded through the streets of west London on Monday - the final day of the carnival

Deputy Assistant Commissioner Ade Adelekan, who oversaw the policing operation, said: 'It is regrettable that for a second year in a row, Monday night at Carnival has been marred by serious violence.

'Nobody disputes the significance of Carnival on London's cultural calendar and the overwhelming majority of those who came will have had a positive experience. However, we cannot overlook the stabbings, sexual assaults and attacks on police officers that we have seen.

'As we do following any major operation, we will be reviewing the events of the past two days and giving thorough consideration to what may need to change in future years.

'It is important to recognise the positives that we can take away from the event. I am pleased that by working in close partnership with the event organisers and the stewarding teams, we were able to closely monitor crowd density and intervene in an effective way to prevent any incidents of crushing at peak times.

'I would like to thank all the officers who have worked so hard over the weekend to keep people safe.

'Carnival is a challenging policing environment. Officers were asked to be vigilant and alert but to be approachable, respectful and sensitive at the same time. They did all of that and more and they deserve our recognition and our thanks.'

A huge pile of detritus sits outside two boarded up businesses in Notting Hill

Graffiti adorns the makeshift barricades installed by businesses in the area
A hillwalker fell 130ft to his death in front of his children as they headed towards the top of the UK's highest mountain.

The 66-year-old was on the Carn Mor Dearg arete, a narrow ridge that leads to the summit of Ben Nevis, when he fell on Sunday.

It is believed the pensioner was with two of his sons, who were among a group of four hiking on the route.

Lochaber Mountain Rescue Team sent ten members after being called out around noon but cloud conditions later improved enough to allow a coastguard helicopter to retrieve the man's body and his fellow walkers.

A Police Scotland spokesman said: 'Officers received a report of a man having fallen at Carn Mor Dearg near Fort William at around 12.30pm on Sunday.

The 66-year-old was on the Carn Mor Dearg arete (pictured), a narrow ridge that leads to the summit of Ben Nevis, when he fell on Sunday

'Emergency services attended, and a 66-year-old man was pronounced dead at the scene.

'There are not believed to be any suspicious circumstances and next of kin have been informed. A report will be sent to the procurator fiscal.'

It is thought the victim was visiting the area, possibly from England.

Iain Murray, leader of Lochaber Mountain Rescue Team, said: 'We would like to express our condolences to the man's family and friends. He fell a considerable distance in a very steep place.

'I believe he had two of his sons with him so this is a particularly tragic event for them.'

In a separate incident, the coastguard helicopter also airlifted a man and a woman in their 20s from the same ridge at around 3pm that day and took them to Torlundy, near Fort William.

One of the hikers became 'cragfast' on the steep ridge and was unable to move.

The arete links 4,000ft Carn Mor Dearg to the summit of 4,413ft Ben Nevis. Walk Highlands says: 'For experienced, fit mountain walkers this is the finest way to climb Ben Nevis. This is a truly spectacular route incorporating two Munros.'

Lochaber Mountain Rescue Team sent ten members to the arete after being called out around noon but cloud conditions later improved enough to allow a coastguard helicopter to retrieve the man's body and his fellow walkers

Meanwhile, the funeral of 39-year-old mountain guide Dave Fowler  who fell to his death in Glen Coe with two other climbers  took place at Inverness Crematorium yesterday.

The climbers are believed to have been roped together as they took on the treacherous Aonach Eagach ridge.

A health and safety probe has been launched into their deaths.

Mr Fowler, Graham Cox, 60, from Southport, Merseyside, and an unnamed 64-year-old woman were killed. Their bodies were found on August 6 after being reported missing the night before.

Mr Fowler was based in Fort William and worked for West Coast Mountain Guides. Originally from Wales, he moved north in 2005 to pursue his passion for climbing.
An incredibly rare customised Land Rover used by the late Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip has emerged for sale almost 70 years later.

The 4x4 was one of six created especially for the royal couple to use while on the Australia leg of their inaugural Commonwealth tour in 1954.

Of the six built, only two have survived - this one and another held at a British motor museum.

This model has now been put up for auction by a private collector of early Land Rover models with Bonhams and is expected to fetch 120,000.

The car has a specially designed rear tub with seating and leaning bars for when the royals were standing to wave to the crowds.

The new Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip embarked on their tour of the Commonwealth in late 1953, after the Queen's accession to the throne in 1952. Above: The royal couple in the same Land Rover as they arrive at Parliament House in Hobart, Tasmania, in 1954

An incredibly rare customised Land Rover used by the late Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip has emerged for sale almost 70 years later. The 4x4 was one of six created especially for the royal couple to use while on their Commonwealth tour in Australia in 1954

The Australian leg of the tour lasted 58 days, during which they visited 57 different towns and cities

It also has a bespoke rear door with a step to make it easier and more dignified for them to enter and exit.

Inside it has a comfortable bench seat, door cards and even a clock.

The car, which is claret with a blue interior, was restored between 2015 and 2018 and is in excellent condition.

It has won multiple awards at various Land Rover shows and was awarded best vehicle in its class at the Goodwood Festival of Speed this year.

The car, which is claret with a blue interior, was restored between 2015 and 2018 and is in excellent condition

Queen Elizabeth II and the Duke of Edinburgh waving from the back of their Land Rover to a group of youngsters, as they arrive at the Children's Display at Bundaberg, Australia, March 19th, 1954

It has won multiple awards at various Land Rover shows and was awarded best vehicle in its class at the Goodwood Festival of Speed this year

The new Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip embarked on their tour of the Commonwealth in late 1953, after the Queen's accession to the throne in 1952 following the death of her father, King George VI.

It was the longest Commonwealth tour she ever took, lasting seven months and covering 44,000 miles.

It began in Bermuda before the Queen headed to Jamaica, Fiji, Tonga, and New Zealand, where Her Majesty spent Christmas.

The royal party left the country until the end of January and arrived in Australia on February 3.

The Queen is seen inspecting a guard of honour in Hobart, Tasmania, during her tour of Australia on February 20, 1954

Queen Elizabeth II and the Duke of Edinburgh wearing formal dress as they leave Parliament House during their Royal Tour of Australia

The Australian leg of the tour lasted 58 days, during which they visited 57 different towns and cities.

They undertook numerous engagements across Australia and used a variety of vehicles including Rolls-Royces, Humber Imperials and Land Rovers.

After leaving Australia, they traveled to the Cocos Islands and then visited Sri Lanka (which was then known as Ceylon).

In late April they moved on to Aden in Yemen and spent the final days of the month in Uganda before touring Malta in early May and wrapping up the overall schedule with a stop in Gibraltar.

The car will be sold by Bonhams at the Goodwood Revival sale in Chichester on September 9

The car is one of several that were used on the tour of Australia by the Queen and Prince Philip

Tim Schofield from Bonhams said: 'This is not the first time Bonhams have sold royal Land Rovers, but this one is particularly special because it's an early series I Land Rover and was used on the Queen and Prince Philip's coronation tour.

'It was one of several cars used on that tour but we think we have found photos of this particular one being used in front of tens of thousands of people.

'It's also quite interesting because it has developments that were not introduced as standard until later cars - such as the sills to conceal the exhaust and fuel tank.

The car remained in Australia for most of its life and was restored there before being taken to the UK

The Queen and Prince Philip wave to a crowd in Carrington Park, New South Wales, on February 15, 1954

The car has an open back with padded arm rests which the Queen and Prince Philip used when waving to crowds

'The pads in the back - one is quite tall so was for Prince Philip and one is shorter for the Queen.

'It remained in Australia for the majority of its life. It was restored there in 2015-2018 then bought by the vendor and repatriated to the UK.'

The car will be sold by Bonhams at the Goodwood Revival sale in Chichester on September 9.
ZIMBABWE is consolidating a national response to the Preliminary Report of the Sadc Elections Observer Mission (SEOM) which is fraught with irregularities, hearsay and pure hyperbolic nonsense imputed from the countrys opposition parties.

The Sadc report, which has similarities with the European Union Elections Observer Mission Report, has threatened to cause a diplomatic row between Zimbabwe and its neighbour Zambia, which seconded its former vice president Dr Nevers Mumba to head the mission, despite his questionable background and a documented history of clinical mental illness.

Before the elections that were held on August 23, spilling into the 24th in some areas, Dr Mumba held several meetings with the countrys opposition CCC and EU representatives, with the submissions from the opposition finding their way into his scandalous preliminary report.

Apart from pursuing diplomatic engagements, Deputy Chief Secretary in the Office of the President and Cabinet (Communications), Mr George Charamba, said Harare is compiling a document for presentation to its sister republics in the region.

We are at the beginning stage of a very long process of adoption which is why Zimbabweans must not be overly excited, and in any event Zimbabwe as a country under observation has its right of response and I happen to know that work is already underway to consolidate a national response to what is in fact a very faulty report by the Sadc Observer Mission.

The second point that I want to make is that Sadc is a creature of the Frontline States which is essentially an anti-imperial formation. This has been its history and I daresay this is its trajectory now and into the future.

Mr Charamba, who is also President Mnangagwas spokesperson, said Zimbabwe is worried that foreigners would want to brew a conflict situation in the region where there is none.

If you check back in history, there were a number of instances where the Zimbabwean Question triggered very open provocations led by some Heads of State of Sadc countries. Zimbabwe resisted being goaded into a conflict situation by outsiders through neighbours to create an African conflict.

We have no business in being instrumentalised by outsiders to be at loggerheads with each other so really this has been the stance of Zimbabwe and I dont think it is any different now. In any event, it will be wrong for us to conflate a draft of an observer mission with the national position of a country and a neighbouring country for that matter with whom we have enjoyed excellent relations. So I see Zimbabwe maybe consolidating its own national position and participating in Sadc processes to make sure that this pertinently very bad report is not given Sadc official status.

Mr Charamba added that at worst, the Dr Mumba preliminary report is just an irritant which in its draft form is not binding as it has to be taken to the Sadc Troika first.

He said the Troika Plus 1 will then have to adopt the document and even after its adoption, it has to be adopted by a Sadc Summit, which will be taking place next year in June in Harare, when Zimbabwe assumes chairmanship of the regional body.

By nature, Mr Charamba said, politics are emotive and can make or break nations, hence the need to approach people with the right temperament and capacity to preside over them.

By definition electoral processes are inherently emotive, they can make or break a nation because the political temperature is at a fever pitch, thats the first point. Secondly, again by definition electoral processes make governments, they define a leader of a nation, they also pave the way to a government.

To that end thats a very critical process in the life and activity of a nations state. What that means is the constitution of an observer mission is such a sensitive decision and a decision which must ensure that one, the person heading that process is of sound experience and sound temperament, said Mr Charamba.

Commenting on Dr Mumbas conduct, highly respected African statesman and former Mozambican President Cde Joachim Chissano, who is 84 and was President of Mozambique from 1986 to 2005, said in his life in politics, he has never heard of observers straying from their mandate as did the Sadc Head of the Observer Mission.

This did not happen in my country, said President Chissano. I was not present in all elections in southern Africa . . . maybe it happened somewhere else (but), I never heard of it.

However, diplomatic sources said there is a method to Dr Mumbas conduct, drawing this publication to a time when the then former vice-president of Zambia, who allegedly has a mental illness, almost ignited a war between his country and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

In 2004, the then President of Zambia, the late Mr Levy Mwanawasa, had to drop Dr Mumba as his deputy after the latter said a fugitive Zambian spy chief was holed up in the DRC, an allegation that almost precipitated a war between the two neighbours.

The diplomatic sources questioned how such a character, with his connections to the countrys opposition figures, could have been accepted by Zimbabwe to play the role of chief observer.

Nevers Mumba has a well-known history of clinical mental problems. What surprised most of us in the region was when the Zambian President picked him for chairmanship of such a sensitive mission and on a trip to a country like Zimbabwe whose election history is fraught.

Even the most cursory background check would have shown that this man almost precipitated an interstate conflict between Zambia and the Democratic Republic of Congo in 2004 because of his unstable temperament. To de-escalate matters that were coming to a head, President Mwanawasa had to fire him as the countrys Vice-President, the diplomat said.

In his home country, Dr Mumba has been described as a typical Pentecostal preacher-turned-politician, after he used his clout as a televangelist in Zambia to launch himself politically in 2001.

Ironically, Dr Mumbas party was called National Citizens Coalition, a name that was to be adopted albeit with slight variations in Zimbabwe as the opposition formed its Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC).

Unsurprisingly, Dr Mumba has long standing ties with the countrys opposition leaders including Mr Chamisas predecessor, the late Mr Morgan Tsvangirai.

The two, along with South African opposition leader Mr Mmusi Maimane, were at the core of the so-called Southern Africa Opposition Political Parties, whose mission was to fight and dislodge former liberation movements like Zanu-PF and the ANC from power. Herald
She said it was a 'horror flight' as she crashed into the ceiling during turbulence

Eva Benetatou was on her a flight to Ibiza when the plane flew through a storm

A German reality star from the hit show The Bachelor was on a 'horror flight' to Ibiza, during which passengers 'screamed, cried, prayed and vomited'.

Eva Benetatou, 31, was flying from Hamburg to Ibiza on Sunday with her two-year-old son George Angelos when the Eurowings flight 7514 got caught in a heavy storm over the Balearic Islands.

The reality TV star, who participated in the German version of The Bachelor, took to Instagram yesterday to talk about her horrifying ordeal.

'It was the worst day of my life. Everything was white outside. We got thrown around and even crashed into the ceiling once. We didn't know which way was up anymore,' she said.

Footage taken by another passenger shows the terrifying turbulence that saw passengers fly out of their seats and scream in horror.

Eva Benetatou (pictured), 31, was flying from Hamburg to Ibiza on Sunday with her two-year-old son George Angelos when the Eurowings flight 7514 got caught in a heavy storm over the Balearic Islands

Eva said: 'The whole plane was a write off. You could see where parts were missing. Of course they said the aircraft was fine, but it wasn't. We could see everything when we got out.' She also shared messages she received by another passenger, who allegedly stayed in the same hotel as an engineer working on the aircraft, who said the radar failed and then the electricity cut out

Eva added: 'I thought our life was over. Everyone was screaming, crying, praying and vomiting.'

The flight set off in Hamburg despite storm warnings for Ibiza, where the plane had to 'circle for more than an hour', because it didn't get permission to land during the bad weather conditions.

READ MORE: Terrifying footage from plane flying through Mallorca storm shows passengers screaming and crying as extreme turbulence causes some to vomit Advertisement

Another flight also got caught in the storm above the Balearic islands and went through terrifying turbulence.

The mid-air ordeal left passengers fearing for their lives as the plane flew from Alicante in southern Spain to Majorca on Sunday.

A video shows the plane shaking violently as her frightened fellow passengers clung to their seats when the plane shook and dropped - causing people to scream, cry and vomit in what felt like an 'eternal' moment.

Areas of north-east Spain, as well as Majorca, were battered by 75mph winds and torrential rain over the weekend, forcing some families to run for their lives and stranding others on the island as flights were cancelled.

She previously worked as a flight attendant for Germanwings and said she had never experienced a 'horror flight' like this: 'I'm traumatised. You can't imagine how intense that was.

'I was scared for my life. It was the biggest nightmare.'

After about ten minutes the horror turbulence while flying through the storm over Ibiza was over and the plane headed to nearby Alicante for an emergency landing.

Footage taken by another passenger (pictured) shows the terrifying turbulence that saw passengers fly out of their seats and scream in horror. Eva said: 'It was the worst day of my life. Everything was white outside. We got thrown around and even crashed into the ceiling once. We didn't know which way was up anymore. I thought our life was over. Everyone was screaming, crying, praying and vomiting'

The reality TV star, who participated in the German version of The Bachelor, took to Instagram yesterday to talk about her horrifying ordeal

Eva worked as a flight attendant for Germanwings for four years and said she had never experienced a flight like this: 'I'm traumatised. You can't imagine how intense that was. I was scared for my life. It was the biggest nightmare'

The aircraft had 'clearly' suffered some damage in the storm, Eva claimed.

'The whole plane was a write off. You could see where parts were missing. Of course they said the aircraft was fine, but it wasn't. We could see everything when we got out.'

Eva also shared messages she received by another passenger, who allegedly stayed in the same hotel as an engineer working on the aircraft.

'He told us the radar failed, so the pilot had no information about the current location anymore and flew straight into the storm.

'Then the electricity cut out and he had to land the plane manually in Alicante,' the passenger claims.

The flight set off in Hamburg despite storm warnings for Ibiza, where the plane had to 'circle for more than an hour', because it didn't get permission to land during the bad weather conditions. After about ten minutes the horror turbulence while flying through the storm over Ibiza was over and the plane headed to nearby Alicante for an emergency landing. The aircraft had 'clearly' suffered some damage in the storm, Eva claimed

Even when the plane touched down safely in Alicante, passengers were left to wait more than 90 minutes until the aircraft was unloaded - in 35 degree heat. Instead of taking a flight from Alicante to Ibiza, she flew back home to Germany with her son, who was so shocked and scared that he didn't make a peep during the ordeal

Even when the plane touched down safely in Alicante, passengers were left to wait more than 90 minutes until the aircraft was unloaded - in 35 degree heat.

Influencer Eva said what happened was 'irresponsible, traumatic and negligent' by the airline.

Instead of taking a flight from Alicante to Ibiza, she flew back home to Germany with her son, who was so shocked and scared that he didn't make a peep during the ordeal.

'I am infinitely grateful that we got home safely. I do not wish this experience on anyone in the world.'

A spokesperson for the airline told German newspaper Bild: 'There was never any danger to the safety of the passengers and crew on flight EW7514.'
Police in Pakistan have announced they are widening their search for the family of Sara Sharif who fled the UK a day before her body was found after a coroner determined today that the 10-year-old's death was 'likely not natural'.

The 10-year-old's body was found at her home in Woking, Surrey on August 10, a day after three relatives, including her father, fled the UK to Pakistan.

Police launched an international manhunt after discovering Sara's body at her home following a phone call made by her father Urfan Sharif, 41, who left the country to Islamabad with his wife Beinash Batool, 29, and brother Faisal Malik, 28, a day earlier.

The BBC reports that Pakistan police officers have now widened their search around to two more areas around the city of Jhelum after new information was provided by multiple sources.

Earlier this month, a post-mortem revealed Sara had suffered 'multiple and extensive injuries' that were 'likely to have been caused over a sustained and extended period of time'.

A coroner said that the precise cause of Sara Sharif's death is 'not yet ascertained' but is likely to be 'unnatural'

Coroner Simon Wickens opened the inquest at Surrey Coroner's Court today

Sara Sharif 's body was found at a property in Hammond Road, Woking earlier this month

Her precise cause of death was 'not yet ascertained' but was deemed likely to be 'unnatural', coroner Simon Wickens found at Surrey Coroner's Court.

He then adjourned inquest proceedings until February next year to allow police time to investigate.

Mr Wickens offered his 'sincere condolences' to all those 'touched by Sara's short life'.

The opening of Sara's inquest comes after the news that Mr Sharif is on the verge of handing himself in to police in Pakistan.

Sara's mother Olga Sharif has urged her ex-husband to 'give up' and hand himself in to police.

Surrey Police are continuing to appeal for information to help them piece together a picture of Sara's lifestyle prior to her death.

They widened the timescale of their investigation after the post-mortem examination revealed that Sara had suffered multiple and extensive injuries, likely to have been caused over a sustained and extended period of time.

Speaking to The Mirror from the family home in Jehlum, which is 85 miles from Islamabad, Sara's grandfather Muhammad Sharif said: 'As far as I know, my son and his wife are willing to surrender and they will do so soon.'

Urfan Sharif (pictured) is on the verge of handing himself in, according to Sara Sharif's grandfather

Ten-year-old Sara Sharif was tragically found dead at her home in Woking earlier this month. Here, she is pictured with her mother Olga

Urfan Sharif, 41, his wife Beinash Batool (pictured left), 29, and his brother Faisal Malik (pictured right), 28, fled the UK a day before Sara's body was found

The 68-year-old claimed he had not seen his son since he fled to Pakistan and has no idea how Sara died.

He added: 'I want them to surrender soon as because of the police raids and investigations all of my family is in deep trouble.

'I don't know where they are but I can tell that they are not in Jehlum.'

Sara's mother Olga Sharif has also spoken as Pakistani police close in on the three fugitives.

She told The Sun: 'Until he is arrested I can't have any sense of closure or security. It's been a very anxious wait.'

It comes after police chief Nasir Bajwa revealed they were closing in on the group. He said on Saturday: 'With God's will we will make the arrest by tomorrow night.'
Ukraine's forces have pushed deeper into Russian defensive lines in the country's south, Kyiv said today, as footage emerged of intense close-quarters combat between Ukraine's armed forces and Moscow's invading infantrymen.

Kyiv launched a grinding counteroffensive in June after stockpiling Western-supplied weapons and building up assault battalions. Unlike two rapid assaults last summer, Ukraine's armies have made slow progress through dense defences and minefields.

Nevertheless, gains have been made, and on Monday Kyiv confirmed the Armed Forces of Ukraine had liberated the village of Robotyne on the southern front - the latest in a series of villages liberated as Ukraine pushes towards the Sea of Azov.

As Ukraine has stepped up its assault, Russia has stepped up its shelling. On Tuesday, Kyiv ordered the evacuation of children from five towns in the region.

Speaking on Ukrainian television, Deputy Prime Minister Iryna Vereshchuk said that the evacuation of children from the Vasylivskyi and Pologivskyi districts is now mandatory. Around 50 children are still though to be living in the districts.

This came as footage was released showing brutal, close-quarters fighting between Ukrainian and Russian soldiers, bringing home the reality of a war that is nearing its 19th month and showing no sign of ending.

Ukraine's forces have pushed deeper into Russian defensive lines in the country's south, Kyiv said today, as footage emerged of intense close-quarters combat between the country's armed forces and the invading infantrymen (pictured)

Pictured: A pair of Ukrainian soldiers are seen hunkered down in a foxhole while picking off advancing Russian troops

Robotyne is six miles south of the frontline town of Orikhiv in the Zaporizhzhia region on an important road towards Tokmak, a Russian-occupied road and rail hub

The footage shows fierce and intense close combat using machine guns and bombs between the Russian and Ukrainian military on a woodland battlefield.

A pair of Ukrainian troops are seen hidden in a small bunker, holding off against an attempted Russian advance and greater numbers. The corpses of two Russian soldiers are already seen on the ground when the video begins.

The clip, recorded both by a drone and by a camera mounted on the helmet of one of the Ukrainian soldiers, shows two Russians attempt to rush the Ukrainians.

However, it appears they misjudged the position of the AFU soldiers and are quickly picked off by an automatic rifle wielded by the fighter with the camera.

As another Russian soldier raises his head above the bunker he is hiding in, he too is gunned down. From the same bunker, another Russian soldier is seen frantically crawling away into a second foxhole where a comrade is taking cover.

Despite keeping their heads down, they are not safe. One of the two Ukrainian soldiers throw a grenade directly into the bunker, which is not seen by either of the sheltering Russians. The video ends with the grenade detonating just feet away.

In total it appears the two Ukrainian soldiers were able to take down five Russian soldiers in the video alone. The total number of casualties was not clear.

The images were obtained from the 59th Separate Motorized Infantry Brigade on Monday, August 28. Posting the video online, the brigade said: 'Modern warfare is often referred to as artillery warfare or drone warfare, but it is the infantry who bear the brunt of combat and the main risk.

'It is the infantry who see the enemy closest and engage in contact combat. And it is the infantryman's foot that is the first to step on the liberated land.'

The AFU said last week that its troops had raised the national flag in the strategic settlement, but were still carrying out mopping-up operations.

This came amid reports that Vladimir Putin's generals had redirected elements of their most elite fighting unit to the southern front to slow the AFU's advance.

Military spokesman Andriy Kovalyov said Ukrainian forces were edging further in the Zaporizhzhia region, which Moscow claims is part of Russia.

'Ukrainian forces had successes in the direction of Novodanylivka to Verbove,' he told state media on Tuesday, naming two hamlets in the war-battered region. He added that the troops were holding captured territory and attacking Russian artillery.

Ukraine's forces have pushed deeper into Russian defensive lines in the country's south, Kyiv said today, as it presses on with its counteroffensive. Pictured: Ukrainian soldiers of the Separate Assault Battalion 'Skala' enter the embattled village of Robotyne, August 25

A Ukrainian serviceman walks near a destroyed Ukrainian tank, as Russia's attack on Ukraine continues, near the village of Robotyne, Zaporizhzhia region, Ukraine August 25, 2023

Robotyne is six miles south of the frontline town of Orikhiv in the Zaporizhzhia region on an important road towards Tokmak, a Russian-occupied road and rail hub.

READ MORE: Russia deploys its best fighting unit to the front lines in desperate bid to halt Ukraine advance Pictured: The emblem of Russia's feared 76th Guard Air Assault Division (GAAD) Advertisement

In a daily update on the situation in Ukraine, the US-based Institute for the Study of War concurred with Kyiv's claim that its forces were advancing further south.

'Heat anomalies from NASA FIRMS/VIIRS sensors and Russian claims of Ukrainian advances likely indicate that Ukrainian forces advanced near Verbove (another village to the east of Robotyne),' the ISW wrote on Monday.

Compared to Ukrainian offensives last year in the Kherson and Kharkiv regions, this time Kyiv's forces are crashing into Russian defensive lines of trenches and minefields that are kilometres deep.

But analysts say the capture of Robotyne is evidence that Ukrainian forces can puncture Russian lines as they push south.

Tokmak's capture would be a milestone as Ukrainian troops press southwards towards the Sea of Azov in a military drive that is intended to split Russian forces following Moscow's full-scale invasion in February 2022.

Kyiv's generals want to reach the city of Melitopol, around 40 miles southwest of Robotyne, in order to cut Russia's 'land bridge' in two.

The 'bridge' is a swathe of Ukrainian territory currently occupied by Moscow's forces that connects Russia to Crimea, the Ukrainian peninsular that was annexed by Vladimir Putin in 2014 - providing a vital supply route.

By driving a wedge through the land bridge, Ukraine wants to cut Moscow's forces off from each other and from their supplies and to force a retreat from the Russian held Kherson Oblast - a region that is mostly south of the Dnipro river, the city of Kherson and north of Crimea.

Plumes of smoke erupt as Ukrainian unit breach mine defences as part of a southern counteroffensive, near Hulyaipole, in Zaporizhzhia region, Ukraine, in this screen grab obtained from a handout video released on August 27, 2023

Ukrainian servicemen ride a tank, as Russia's attack on Ukraine continues, near the village of Robotyne, Zaporizhzhia region, Ukraine August 25, 2023

According to Dr Mike Martin - a former British Army officer, senior visiting research fellow at King's College London and prospective Liberal Democrat MP, Ukraine must target Tokmak, a key highway that runs from Russia to Melitopol, and three bridges or roads that lead to the Crimean peninsular from Ukraine and Russia.

Writing on X (formerly Twitter), Dr Martin said that this does not mean that Ukraine has to actually capture these strategic points, but just has to get within striking distance so that Kyiv's armed forces can disrupt and damage them with artillery.

'If [Ukraine] can get to about 10 miles past Tokmak then they can just reach the M14 highway with artillery as it enters Melitopol,' Dr Martin wrote. 'So this Robotyne assault seems like the right idea.'

If Kyiv's forces are able to get within range of the M14 highway and disrupt Russia's supply route then, Dr Martin wrote: 'the Russian withdrawal from [southern Kherson Oblast] is a forgone conclusion.'

Meanwhile, Ukrainian troops have also been trying to surround the eastern town of Bakhmut, which was captured by Russian forces in May in a brutal months-long battle that was likened to a First World War 'meat grinder'.

The head of the Donetsk region, where Bakhmut is located, on Tuesday played down the Ukrainian push, after Kyiv claimed successes.

'The flanks are being held. The situation there is already stabilising,' Denis Pushilin told Russian state media.

In response to Ukrainian advances, reports have said Moscow has deployed its 76th Guard Air Assault Division (GAAD) - sometimes described as Russia's best fighting unit - to the region, with elements being spotted near Robotyne last week.

In response to Ukrainian advances, reports have said Moscow has deployed its 76th Guard Air Assault Division (GAAD) - sometimes described as Russia's best fighting unit (pictured during a parade in 2020) - to the region, with elements being spotted near Robotyne last week

The ISW said on Saturday it had seen evidence of 'lateral redeployments of elements of the 7th Guards Mountain VDV Division from Kherson Oblast to the frontline in Zaporizhzhia Oblast, and elements of the 76th VDV Division from the Kreminna area to the Robotyne area'.

It repeated the report about elite units being redeployed on Sunday, adding: 'Russian forces committed a considerable amount of materiel, effort, and manpower to hold the series of defensive positions that Ukrainian forces are currently penetrating'.

It added: 'It is unclear if Russian forces will retain the advantages they have held if they cannot commit the same level of resources and personnel to these next layers of defence. The next Russian defensive layer will, nevertheless, very likely pose significant challenges for the Ukrainian advance.'

And on Monday, the ISW wrote: 'The Russian military command continues to expend relatively elite Russian airborne forces by deploying these troops to defend vulnerable positions against Ukrainian counteroffensives.'

Images circulating on Ukrainian social media appeared to show tow Russian unit patches from the 234th and 104th Guards Airborne Assault regiments - both part of the 76th GAAD. The patches were reportedly taken as trophies.

Russia's 234th regiment it believed to have been involved in the Bucha massacre, a mass killing of Ukrainian civilians by Russian soldiers in March 2022.

Extensive reporting by the Associated Press and other news outlets uncovered how the regiment carried out a 'cleansing' operation in the Kyiv suburb, arresting, torturing and murdering Ukrainian residents.

Elements of the 76th GAAD had been fighting in Kremmina in the Luhansk region - around 150 miles to the north-east of Robotyne.

Their sighting around the southern village suggests some have been moved.

Russian paratroopers march and sing during the military parade at the 76th Guards Air Assault Division in Pskov, Russia, March 1, 2020

News of Ukraine's continued push south came as three people were killed in an overnight Russian missile strike in the centre of the country, and two died in shelling later on Monday in the east and south, Ukrainian officials said.

Interior Minister Ihor Klymenko said the three people were killed at an industrial plant in central Poltava region.

Five were wounded and another person was unaccounted for, he said.

Presidential chief of staff Andriy Yermak said those killed were night shift workers at a vegetable oil factory in the Myrhorod district and posted photos showing the plant in flames. Klymenko said the fire had later been extinguished.

Oleksandr Prokudin, governor of southern Kherson region, said a 63-year-old woman had been killed in the mid-morning shelling of the village of Sadove.

Russian shelling killed a man working outside his home in the early evening in Toretsk, in eastern Donetsk region, prosecutors said.

The Ukrainian military said Russia had launched four missiles from the Black Sea overnight. Two were shot down.

Pictured: Ukrainian law enforcement officers stand next to the burning industrial facility following a missile strike in the village of Hoholeve, Poltava region, August 28

Other reports from Ukrainian officials described heavy Russian shelling of Marhanets, opposite the Russian-held Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, with four people injured.

Regional officials reported three injured in the shelling of nine localities in northern Sumy region.

Ukraine's military also said central Kryvyi Rih region in had been struck in a missile attack. Local authorities said private houses were damaged, but reported no casualties.

The reports could not be independently confirmed. Russia, which sent tens of thousands of troops into Ukraine 18 months ago, did not immediately comment when contacted by Reuters news agency.
A German woman who joined the Islamic State and chained up a five-year-old Yazidi slave girl, leaving her to die of thirst in the baking sun, has been handed a 14-year prison sentence by a Munich court.

Jennifer Wenisch, originally from Lohne in Lower Saxony, joined ISIS in Iraq and allowed the young girl to die of thirst for wetting the bed in August 2015.

She and her then-husband, an ISIS fighter, had bought the young Yazidi girl and her mother as household slaves, and went on to commit horrific acts of abuse.

The woman argued in court that her husband had restrained the girl and left her to die, but judges decided that she was equally responsible for the girl's fate.

Prosecutors also pointed out that Wenisch later put a gun to the slave mother's head and threatened to shoot her in an attempt to prevent her crying over her daughter's horrific fate.

The Higher Regional Court in Munich this morning charged Wenisch, 32, with enslavement resulting in death and accused her of having 'acted out of contempt for fellow human beings'.

Defendant Jennifer Wenisch arrives in a courtroom for her trial in Munich, October 25, 2021

Jennifer Wenisch, originally from Lohne in Lower Saxony, joined ISIS in Iraq and allowed the young girl to die of thirst after she was chained up in the sun

The sentencing comes after Germany's Federal Court of Justice threw out an appeal by Wenisch, who was initially convicted in October 2021 of two counts of crimes against humanity through enslavement, in one case resulting in death, being an accessory to attempted murder and membership in a terrorist organization abroad.

Wenisch was taken into custody while trying to renew her identity papers at the German Embassy in Ankara in 2016, and deported to Germany.

Her former husband, an Iraqi citizen who was identified only as Taha Al-J., was convicted by a Frankfurt court in November 2021 of genocide, crimes against humanity, war crimes and bodily harm resulting in death.

He was sentenced to life imprisonment.

The girl's mother, who survived captivity, testified at both trials.

Following her conversion to Islam, Wenisch was recruited by the terrorist organization in mid-2015 to the group's self-styled hisbah morality police.

She patrolled city parks in IS-occupied Fallujah and Mosul, armed with an AK-47 assault rifle, a pistol, and an explosives vest.

She was tasked by the group to ensure strict IS rules on dress code, public behavior, and bans on alcohol and tobacco.

A Kurdish-speaking group hailing from northern Iraq, the Yazidis were specifically targeted and oppressed by the jihadists beginning in 2015. Pictured: A Yazidis girl in 2014 fleeing the violence rests at the border with Syria.

The German ISIS member was originally given 10 years in prison in 2021 for her involvement in the death of a five-year-old Yazidi slave girl

German law allows for a life sentence in cases where a defendant's actions result in a person's death

Wenisch's initial trial began in April 2019, and is one of the first examples of court proceedings over the Islamic State group's brutal treatment of Yazidis.

A Kurdish-speaking group hailing from northern Iraq, the Yazidis were specifically targeted and oppressed by the jihadists beginning in 2015.

London-based human rights lawyer Amal Clooney - who was involved in a campaign for ISIS crimes against the Yazidi community to be recognised as a 'genocide' - was part of the team representing the Yazidi girl's mother.

Germany has charged several German and foreign nationals with war crimes and crimes against humanity carried out abroad, using the legal principle of universal jurisdiction which allows crimes to be prosecuted even if they were committed in a foreign country.
Stranded Brits are sleeping on airport floors with only chocolate bars for nourishment as the air traffic crisis rumbles into a second day - amid anger at the lack of support and compensation from airlines.

Dozens more flights have been grounded today on top of more than 1,200 cancellations yesterday after National Air Traffic Services (Nats) suffered a 'technical issue' preventing it from automatically processing flight plans.

Thousands of holidaymakers have been left stuck as a result, with some being told they won't be able to get a flight home for a staggering 12 days.

In the meantime, families have scrambled to secure hotel rooms for their unexpectedly prolonged stay, often at inflated prices, paying hundreds of pounds per night.

The boss of the Civil Aviation Authority confirmed today that passengers can expect to be provided with food and drink as well as accommodation if delayed overnight.

However, scores of people reported having to spend the night sleeping on the floor of airports, with many more complaining about the lack of a proper meal.

Stranded travellers reported having to pay hundreds of pounds for last-minute hotels - if they were lucky enough to get a room, with thousands of families, including some with babies, being forced to sleep on airport floors

Ken Blanks, a 71-year-old from Bristol, said he and his wife had to turn down a 50 per night night hotel in Las Palmas until the next flight in just under two weeks because they cannot afford it.

He blasted easyJet for not offering them anywhere to stay and not communicating with them, telling The Sun: 'I've finished my holiday in Gran Canaria but there's nobody from easyJet talking to us. They don't care a damn about us.

'The next flight is in 12 days so we are stuck here. The airport offered some families with kids hotels but they have to keep getting taxis there and back. It's 200 euros from the airport to the hotel. No one has the money for it. I can't afford a hotel. And there's nobody here to tell us anything.'

This evening easyJet announced it would run five repatriation flights to Gatwick following ATC fault. Flights will be offered from Palma and Faro tomorrow, and Tenerife and Enfidha on Thursday August 31 and from Rhodes on Friday September 1.

Larger aircrafts will also be used by the airline over the coming days on key routes including Faro, Ibiza, Dalaman and Tenerife to provide some additional 700 seats.

Also today Transport Secretary Mark Harper said the government is 'ready' to support all airlines amid the chaos of cancelled flights and backlog, adding it is the worst incident of its kind in 'nearly a decade'.

'I echo the apology offered by Nats to everyone caught up in the disruption following yesterday's technical issue with air traffic control.

Airlines are clear about their responsibilities to their customers and I stand ready to provide further appropriate support from the government should the industry request it.

'The CAA will be putting together a report in the coming days, which obviously I will take a look at to see whether there are lessons to learn for the future,' he told industry leaders earlier today.

Are YOU stranded at an airport? Email: natasha.anderson@mailonline.com

Mary Byrne, pictured with Alex Ogden and Eiisha Mullaney was told her flight to Corfu was cancelled at the last minute

Adam Ashall-Kelly, 35, and his fiancee Christine Marriott, 36, had their flight from Manchester to Verona cancelled on Monday, just days before they tie the knot near Lake Garda on Saturday

Jo Winter and her children (pictured) ended up paying 300 to hire a car and drive three hours to Caen on Monday night, staying in a 150 hotel, before boarding a ferry crossing back to the UK today

Many passengers were forced to sleep on the floor due to a shortage of hotel rooms

Katrina Harrison and her family - including one-year-old twin grandchildren - stayed at Leeds Bradford Airport after their flight to Antalya was cancelled on Monday afternoon.

Ms Harrison, from Stockton-on-Tees, said: 'We were given a bottle of water, a KitKat and a packet of crisps but no proper food. Apparently some people have got vouchers but we haven't been given any.

'All the shops sold out of food and drink last night. We weren't given a blanket, we've been absolutely freezing.

'There were no hotels to stay in, we couldn't get the car out of the car park.

'We haven't slept, we tried to sleep on the floor but couldn't. Luckily the children could sleep in the pram.

'The holiday was supposed to be a family celebration of a few things. We've spent 12,000 on it and we've been treated like muck.

'We're hoping to get on a flight tonight but if it doesn't happen tonight we'll have to go home. We can't keep sitting here with the babies.'

Meanwhile, a couple face a race against time to save their dream Italian wedding amid the chaos.

Adam Ashall-Kelly, 35, and his fiancee Christine Marriott, 36, had their flight from Manchester to Verona cancelled on Monday, just days before they tie the knot near Lake Garda on Saturday.

However, the bride and groom-to-be need to register their marriage at a local court before they can be legally wed - and while they have managed to book on to a flight to Milan on Wednesday, they have 'no idea' whether that too will be cancelled, the BBC reports.

People at Palma de Mallorca airport waiting to board a flight, two days after dozens of flights were cancelled due to storm Betty

Tourists are stuck waiting at Palma de Mallorca airport just days after dozens of fights were cancelled due to storm Betty

Mal Dolby revealed how his son and three grandchildren are stuck in Bodrum airport in Turkey.

He told MailOnline: 'Easyjet are saying they can't help, have offered no food or drink and told them the earliest flight back to Luton is not for 12 days.

'They have no money, no one is helping them.'

Meanwhile, holidaymakers arriving at Manchester Airport today revealed how they were only told their flight had been cancelled at the boarding gate.

Mental health worker Elisha Mullaney had booked a flight to Corfu with Jet2.

The 41-year-old said: 'I received a text from Jet2 telling me to arrive as normal. We checked in our bags and went through security only to be told at the gate it was one of five flights to be cancelled.

'It is very annoying and they must have known well in advance. It's my son's 16th birthday today, which makes it worse.

'I tried to find alternative flights so we could still go but it was going to cost us 600 a ticket. The flight price had increased so much.

'I'm just hoping we will get our money back and we can find something else quickly.'

Elisha, from Manchester, was going on a week's holiday with her son Alex Ogden.

Mary Byrne, who was also on the same flight, said: 'I don't understand why Jet2 can't just delay the flight.

'They made us go all the way through the checking in process knowing they was no chance of us boarding and departing.

'I thought everything with air traffic control would have been sorted by now. We are really disappointed.'

Kirstie Rowley, 52, a payroll and finance officer from Rochdale, was also travelling to Corfu on the 7.30am flight.

Kirstie Rowley, 52, a payroll and finance officer from Rochdale (pictured with Barbara and Chris Rowley), was also travelling to Corfu on the 7.30am flight

Builder Ashley Weaver, 35, waited three hours for his luggage at Birmingham Airport after he and his family flew home from a 12,000 holiday in Orlando, Florida

A screenshot shows the lack of flights available to passengers still stranded in Palma

She said: 'We expected to be delayed with what we had seen on the news but we did think we would get away.

'We had checked in, found ourselves a comfortable spot to wait and got a round of drinks. Then we were told the flight had been cancelled.

'I'm going to have to go back into work tomorrow because if I don't I won't have enough days left to take later. I've already lost one day.

'We were supposed to be meeting friends out in Corfu so I'm going to have to let them know.

'We are going to try to get out later in the week and extend the holiday if the hotel is available.'

READ MORE - Terrifying footage from plane flying through Mallorca storm shows passengers screaming and crying as extreme turbulence causes some to vomit Advertisement

Barbara Rowley, who is retired and in her 70s, said: 'We've just tried to get a taxi home and were told it would cost 87. Only a few hours ago it was 40.

'It is wrong. Everyone is trying to make a quick buck and cash in on what is happening. I am fed up and have been looking forward to this holiday.'

Chris Rowley, 51, a sheet metal worker, said: 'It is always chaos over the bank holiday weekend. Something always seems to happen to cause delays and cancellations.

'I am gutted because I've worked seven days a week for the past two weeks to get in front with my work because I knew I was going away.

'Why did they make us go through security if they were just going to cancel the flight?

'We have spent a lot of money already and all we have done is spend a few hours in the airport. I just hope we can fly out later in the week.'

One family of five from Manchester, stranded in Paris, revealed how it wasn't just flights that were booked up, but they were unable to get on Eurostar or even ferry services from Calais to return home.

Instead, they ended up paying 300 to hire a car and drive three hours to Caen on Monday night, staying in a 150 hotel, before boarding a ferry crossing back to the UK today.

Jo Winter told MailOnline: 'Honestly it has been a nightmare and it's still not over as once on ferry tomorrow we have somehow got to figure out how to get from Portsmouth to Manchester.

'This is our first abroad trip in four years and what was a lovely four day trip to Paris and Disneyland has ended in a extremely stressful situation.

'Although not easyJet's fault I will have my doubts to ever use them again as they provided no help or assistance - the ground staff just didn't want to know.'

Sports journalist Tim Adams is enduring a similar, convoluted journey, spending the best part of 400 on getting back to the UK.

He has travelled from Budapest to Munich today, where he will then set off for Paris tomorrow.

A lack of Eurostar trains means he will have to stay in the French capital overnight before finally returning to London on Thursday evening.

'I was told at the airport yesterday that the next flight to the UK from Budapest was on Thursday,' he said.

'I saw the notification [about cancellations] literally five minutes upon arriving at the airport. There was no to little information provided at the airport and I only found out our flight got cancelled via the Ryanair app as it wasn't signalled in the airport.

'Even two hours after it had been officially cancelled, the board at the airport still stated 'delayed'.'

Jo Winter was enjoying her first family holiday with her three children (pictured) in four years before the chaos unfolded

Passengers queue up at 3.48am this morning at Manchester Airport's Terminal One

Passengers queue for check-in in the car park at Manchester Airport's Terminal One

Passengers stranded overnight at London Gatwick Airport are pictured this morning

Passengers queue for check-in at Manchester Airport's Terminal Two this morning

Elsewhere, exhausted British families told today how they had been forced to spend the night on Palma Airport floor as they waited for flights home from storm-hit Majorca.

The travel chaos caused on the holiday island by winds of up to 80mph and torrential rain on Sunday was compounded yesterday by the IT meltdown that grounded and cancelled more than 1,000 flights.

Problems were continuing today despite an Aena spokesman in Majorca claiming this morning things were 'back to normal' and it was no longer the 'campsite' it had been over the past couple of days.

Jet2 was on the receiving end of most of the complaints from weary travellers, including families with young children, who were still trying to get home after a sleepless night in the departures terminal using inflatable beach lilos or hard airport chairs as makeshift beds and travel bags as cushions.

People were jostling to speak to Jet2 staff to get information but left frustrated with no answers as to what was happening.

Sunday's storm alone led to around 100 flights into and out of the Balearic Islands being cancelled and another 30 diverted to mainland airports like Barcelona and Valencia.

Subsequent reports following the UK air traffic control problems put the number of affected flights at around 300 and police were called at the height of the chaos for security reasons to avoid incidents at Ryanair and Jet2 customer service desks.

At least four flights were expected to depart yesterday for Manchester Airport and Leeds and Bradford Airport but all were cancelled.

Jamie Sedman, 33, from York, told how he and his partner constructed makeshift beds from the Jet2 stands and a crate for their three children aged fifteen, nine and six, after being forced to spend the night in the airport.

He raged today: 'I will never fly Jet2 again. It's just been appalling. I've spent over 3,000 on this holiday and we had to sleep on the airport floor. We want something back for this.

'Jet2 didn't offer us anything. We had to force them to give us one blanket for the five of us and they didn't want to give us that because they said other people hadn't given the blankets back. They should have put us in a hotel.

'They couldn't tell us anything and said we knew more than them because we got an email to say the flight had been cancelled when we were waiting in the airport. 'That was when the staff in departures were still saying our plane was on its way and was in the sky. There was no communication between anyone.'

Lorry driver Jamie was told that his Jet2 flight to Leeds and Bradford Airport was due to depart four different times but was still waiting to be checked-in.

'We got to the airport three hours before our flight,' he added.

'The thing that really annoys me the most is no one knew what was going on. The reps at the hotel were appalling, I've never known anything like it. Ryanair kept people in their hotels.

'Jet2 staff said the cancellation was because of the weather, not the air traffic problems, but they're saying that because they can't be blamed if it's down to the weather.

'There were about five hundred people here last night all waiting for four different flights which were cancelled. They told us they'd put us up in accommodation but we had to sleep on the floor. 'They didn't even give us a bottle of water.'

He and his family were later given a ten euro voucher for a coffee shop.

Jamie said: 'I've spent a fortune on food and drinks in the airport. Burger King and WHSmith didn't take the voucher, none of the places I went to would accept it.'

Uel O'Neill and Rachel O'Neill have had to spend 4,000 on a new Jet2 flight for this Sunday to get to Belfast with their children Tilly, 7, Sam, 8, and James, five, after their Easyjet flight was cancelled today

Mandy Calvert (right), 57, from Guisborough and her friend Shauna Smith (left), 32, from Middlesbrough both had to endure a night in the airport without any sleep

Andy Bolton 42, Sandra Bolton 38, Lucie May Bolton, 7, and Jagger Bolton, 5, from Tarleton in Lancs give their experience the thumbs -down

Mike Pritchard, 40, a self-employed joiner from North Wales (pictured with his family), said: 'We arrived at the airport this morning but have been told our flight is going to be tomorrow. They said it was because of the air traffic problems. So I'm having to pay for a hotel for the night. I can't do anything about it, it is what it is.'

Mandy Calvert, 57, from Guisborough and her friend Shauna Smith, 32, from Middlesbrough both had to endure a night in the airport without any sleep.

Mandy said: 'Jet2 have treated us with no dignity. We've had no sleep at all and just sat on our wet towels on the floor. Other people were sleeping on the floor and seats. I feel so sorry for people with little kids.

'Jet2 staff were just stepping over people sleeping on the floor. They've shown no compassion and just hid in their office.'

The friends had a three-night break in Cala Mayor and were dreading having to spend another night in the airport for their flight back to Leeds and Bradford Airport. We've been awake that long we feel faint,' said Shauna tearfully.

'There's no back-up plan, we've been through Covid and ash clouds. There's no shower facilities here and everyone is just laying around on the floor. It's been degrading to be fair.

'I don't feel able to drive from the airport when we do get back because I've had no sleep. My mum is going to meet us at the airport and drive my car, whenever we get home.

'Even trying to get hold of people on the phone has been a nightmare as there's only two or three plugs in the airport and everyone's fighting over them to charge their phones.'

They were each given a 10 euro voucher but explained it could only be used in a coffee shop which didn't sell proper food, just pastries.

Shauna who started crying out of sheer frustration at the situation said: 'We've been here since 5.50pm yesterday. We're tired and emotional. We weren't offered any accommodation last night, not even a blanket or a pillow.'

When they asked about their flight they were told it was delayed due to technical issues.

'We've been told four different flight times. The staff are telling us different stories. There's no communication between anyone.'

Chris Manning, 42, from Shropshire, was told his Jet2 flight to Manchester would be at 12.15pm. His family-of-four, comprising two children aged five and eleven, were told that there was no issue when they arrived at the airport.

He said today: 'We've been here since 8am. We checked in and had gone through security. But we're stuck at the airport because our cases have gone through and we've been told we can't leave the airport. We're waiting to get our cases back and we've booked into a hotel for the night. It's cost 230 for the hotel and we don't know how much we can claim back, but we haven't got a choice.'

A father and his three children who had been holidaying in Alcudia were also left stranded at the airport.

Mike Pritchard, 40, a self-employed joiner from North Wales, said: 'We arrived at the airport this morning but have been told our flight is going to be tomorrow. They said it was because of the air traffic problems. So I'm having to pay for a hotel for the night. I can't do anything about it, it is what it is.'

Uel O'Neill and Rachel O'Neill have had to spend 4,000 on a new Jet2 flight for this Sunday to get to Belfast with their children Tilly, 7, Sam, 8, and James, five, after their Easyjet flight was cancelled today.

Mr O'Neill, 48, who said he wanted to swear but his 'children were present' raged: 'I've had to spend another 4,000 on a new flight to get back and it's also going to cost me for the hotel for another five nights'

'The kids are all going to miss their first week back at school.'

Easyjet didn't offer them a food voucher, water or accommodation and Jet2 was the quickest option to get back to Belfast, he added.

Passengers stranded overnight at London Gatwick Airport are pictured this morning

Scenes at Manchester Airport early this morning as queues build up at Terminal One

Passengers stranded overnight at London Gatwick Airport are pictured this morning

Passengers queue up at 4.20am this morning at Manchester Airport's Terminal Two

Company director Andy Bolton, 42, from Tarleton in Lancashire, travelling with wife Sandra, 38, and children Lucie May, seven and Jagger, five, said: 'We boarded the plane at 11.20am yesterday and we were sat on the plane without moving for seven hours with a five-year-old and a seven-year old.

'When we first got on the crew didn't tell us anything, then they said there was a problem with London air traffic. They said there was a 10-hour delay after sitting on the plane for seven hours and now it was only two.

'We got a glass of water each which we didn't have to pay for. But we had to buy other food and drinks and they were running out of food and juice for the kids. By the time they got to my aisle there wasn't much left.

'There were lots of kids onboard, a pregnant woman and another woman with a baby sat on her knee for seven hours.'

Andy explained that the crew told them that if the flight was delayed any longer they would go out of hours and be unable to fly them back.

He added: 'That's when they kicked us off the plane. They told us a transfer would be waiting for us to take us to a hotel and we'd be brought back the next day for our flight.

'We walked off the plane and three Jet2 staff looked at us and said 'why are you getting off the plane'? They didn't even know we were coming back into the airport.

'All the passengers had to wait a further three-and-a-half hours for their luggage to be offloaded

'Then we were told that we had to get our own hotel and transfer because Jet2 couldn't get a hotel for all of us.'

Andy had thought ahead and booked a hotel and sent his family there whilst he waited for their luggage.

But some people weren't as lucky. 'One woman left without her luggage to stay in a hotel, she had no milk for her baby as the shops were all closed and the baby had to cry itself to sleep,' he said.

'Another woman in her sixties had to sleep on the airport floor.

'Other passengers were taken to a hotel for two hours to wash. It was absolute chaos in the hotel apparently.'

The passengers were told that their flight would depart today at 5.05pm but at 4pm local time were still waiting in departures.

Passengers wait at Stansted Airport, north of London, on August 29, 2023 after UK flights were delayed over a technical issu

Frustrated passengers wait at Stansted Airport for more information on their flights amid the chaos

At Heathrow, passengers revealed how they had to make last minute changes to their travel plans following the air traffic control chaos.

Steven Williams, 26 said that he was initially due to fly to Brussels on Sunday from Stansted on a budget airline.

But after the flight was cancelled, he travelled down to London, had to stay overnight in a hotel and then booked on Brussels Airline.

He said: 'It's cost me another 400 for the hotel and new flight but there's not much I can do about it because I have to be at work this evening. I was only on a short visit to the UK and I wish I hadn't come.

'I don't understand how, in this day and age, the air traffic IT system could collapse like this? It's a joke and it's ruined things for a lot of us.'

Ray Edwards, 58 from Essex had his flight to Denver cancelled yesterday.

He said: 'I had to book a hotel near Heathrow but luckily my flight is going out today. I don't understand why there's always some kind of travel chaos in Britain when there's a bank holiday?

'The hotels around the airport put their prices up and I hope the airline are going to refund me because it wasn't cheap.'

Elsewhere, Alexandra Williamson, 45, from Birmingham, was due to fly to visit her daughter in Prague when her flight was cancelled at the last minute.

The chaos meant she was forced to fly to Germany before catching a connecting flight to Prague.

The mum-of-one said: 'My flight was cancelled one hour before I flew. The airline booked us in the hotel, we had to wait for six hours for the hotel, but then there were more delays as people were waiting for the rooms.

'Now I've had to fly to Frankfurt, and then wait to get to Prague. I've had to fly to Germany with Lufthansa.

'I've only been here to see my daughter for a quick weekend. I had to call work and rearrange everything.

'You didn't know what was going to happen. At Birmingham they kept us in a queue. It was scary.

'I finally flew to Frankfurt this morning and I will be in Prague about 2pm. I'm really not sure what to think, it was really messy.

'If someone told us before, a few hours before, but it was only an hour. It was really stressful.

'We didn't know what was going to happen. It was stressful, finding people to ask. We didn't know what's going to happen. We found one lady and she helped us.'

Nick and Gemma Furlong were forced to wait seven hours in Gran Canaria Airport with their one-year-old daughter after their flight was cancelled.

Nick said: 'We were waiting for about seven hours for our flight back to Birmingham.

'The most frustrating part was not knowing how long it would be and all the flights before ours that were waiting a while and were cancelled.

'We've got a one-year-old with us and think the most challenging part in the airport was that there was nothing open.

'We're there during the night with no food or drink or anything to keep us occupied or refreshed.

'I think it would have been a lot easier in the daytime with facilities. It was very frustrating.

'We flew from Gran Canaria. It was during the middle of the night, but we set off at quarter to four in the morning.'

Builder Ashley Weaver, 35, waited three hours for his luggage at Birmingham Airport after he and his family flew home from a 12,000 holiday in Orlando, Florida.

The married fater-of-two, from Smethwick, said: 'There was a baggage delay of three hours. It got quite heated between Tui and Birmingham Airport. One of the representatives for Tui had to leave. They didn't give any explanation for it.

'We saw the delays from the air traffic control. We were willing to be stuck in the airport.

'For baggage, if we left we couldn't get back in. We couldn't get food. My holiday was end to end was 12,000 but that's a not small amount of money.

'There was no real reason for the delay. The airport just said it's not our fault.'

Several passengers at East Midlands Airport booked overnight hotel stays at short notice due to the air traffic control disruption, in the hope they can depart on Tuesday.

Cancelled flights are displayed on a departures board at Stansted Airport

Passengers at Stansted faced long waits today for more information on their flights

Michael and Chloe Kennedy, from Meath in the Republic of Ireland, were due to fly home on Monday after attending a festival but their flight cancellation meant they have had to take unpaid leave to cover the extra day and do not know whether they will be compensated.

Mr Kennedy said: 'We queued for ages to leave our bags and just as we got to the front it was on our phones that the flight was cancelled.

'It was chaotic, (staff) were trying their best in there but a lot of people were not happy.

'Eventually we just left and booked a space in a hotel.'

Mrs Kennedy added: 'Our flight was at 8pm and we were not told until 6.30pm, but we were lucky that we had not put our bag through security as some people were not allowed back through because of the risk, staff said.

'They had to return duty free items and things, it was all a bit mad.'

Angela Sykes, from Nottingham, is due to travel on the 11.25am Ryanair flight to Dublin on Tuesday, which remains scheduled to depart on time, with her family for four days.

She said: 'The first we heard about the issues was this morning when we put the radio on.

'It's our first holiday since November - it means we'll be sat in the airport a little bit but I don't care, I'm going away.

'We heard the radio and said, 'Oh well, we will go the airport and if we get there, we get there' - we like to go with the flow. There is nothing to worry about on the app but we will soon find out.'

Earlier today Ryanair boss Michael O'Leary slammed ATC provider Nats for the ongoing disruption.

During a video conference he said: 'We have been in contact with UK Nats. We still haven't had an explanation from them (about) what exactly caused this failure yesterday and where were their back-up systems.

'It's not acceptable that UK Nats simply allow their computer systems to be taken down and everybody's flights get cancelled.

'We've had a very difficult day yesterday due to the UK Nats ATC failure.

'I'm sad to report that we had to cancel about 250 flights affecting the flights of about 40,000 passengers because of long delays to flight plans, crews running out of hours.

'Last night we had 20 aircraft that couldn't get back to their home bases so they're out of place for today.

'Today, unfortunately, it looks like we're going to cancel about another 70 flights.

'That's a very small number out of the 3,200 flights we're planning but that doesn't mean we're not doing everything we possibly can to try to minimise the disruption for our passengers and their families.

We hope by the end of today, Tuesday, that from tomorrow well be running a normal operation,' he added.

Staff at Heathrow revealed that it was less chaotic than Monday as passengers had been told to check if their flights were departing before going to the airport.

Addressing the air traffic control fault, Rob Bishton, interim chief executive at regulator the Civil Aviation Authority, said: 'We understand the challenges many consumers continue to experience when flights are delayed or cancelled following yesterday's technical issue that impacted National Air Traffic Services (Nats) flight planning system.

'Passengers who continue to be impacted can find information about what they are entitled to on our website.

'In the event of delays or cancellations, passengers will be expected to be provided with food and drink as well as accommodation if delayed overnight.

'As part of our regulatory oversight of its activities, we continue to engage with Nats, and once its investigation is fully complete an incident report will be provided to the UK Civil Aviation Authority.

'The report's outcomes will then be shared with the Secretary of State for Transport.'

A Jet2 spokesman said: 'Due to the technical fault that affected the UK's National Air Traffic Services, which has impacted all airlines, Jet2.com flights departing and returning to the UK are expected to experience significant delays.

'Our teams are working incredibly hard to communicate with, and look after, our customers and they will continue to do so.

'As a result of the disruption, we took the decision to cancel some outbound flights scheduled Monday 28th August and Tuesday 29th August. We have contacted all affected customers to let them know, and they will of course receive a full refund. We are extremely sorry to have to take this decision however the ATC disruption left us with no other choice.

'Customers due to travel should travel to the airport as normal unless we advise otherwise and continue to monitor Flight Information on our website.

'For customers due to return to the UK, our teams are working tirelessly to provide hotel accommodation and we will be adding extra flights on top of our scheduled programme to bring our customers' home.

'We would of course like to apologise to everyone that is affected by this situation, which is unfortunately completely outside of our control, and await the outcome of the CAA National Air Traffic Services investigation into what happened.'
A cache of letters by Ernest Hemingway disclosing his devastating injuries after surviving two plane crashes have emerged for sale for 50,000 ($65,000).

In 1953 the American novelist and his wife, Mary, were travelling in Africa when they experienced successive crashes.

Rumours spread around the world that the famous writer had died after the first crash in Uganda while on a sightseeing tour of the Murchison Falls.

In fact the passengers, including the Hemingways, managed to escape from the crash unscathed.

The group walked out of the jungle and managed to get picked up by a boat and taken to Lake Albert at Butiaba.

Hemingway and Mary boarded a rescue plane only for it to catch fire and crash on take off.

A cache of letters by Ernest Hemingway disclosing his devastating injuries after surviving two plane crashes have emerged for sale for 50,000 ($65,000). In 1953 the American novelist and his wife, Mary, were travelling in Africa when they experienced successive crashes

In an April 1954 letter to his lawyer Alfred Rice, Hemingway says his right kidney was ruptured, his spleen injured and he was 'weak from so much internal bleeding'.

The For Whom The Bell Tolls author adds that his right arm was 'burnt to the bone' and his wife 'had a big shock and her memory is not too hot yet'.

Writing from Venice, Italy, he says: 'The trouble is inside where right kidney was ruptured and liver and spleen injured.

We'll get them checked out at this clinic where they have the best man at that stuff in Europe.

'... Mary had a big shock and her memory not too hot yet and it will take quite a time to sort things out.'

Also in the letter, Hemingway discusses shooting his first lion in Kenya but bemoans having to hire a gun as his got lost in shipping.

He says the gun he ended up using 'was so old it would come apart in my hands and had to be held together by tape'.

He adds: 'Their carelessness in shipping imperiled both my life and livelihood.'

The four page handwritten correspondence is the marquee lot in a collection of nine Hemingway letters, spanning 1939 to 1958, which are going under the hammer at auctioneers Nate D Sanders, of California, US.

They divulge Hemingway's financial affairs, which were a source of frustration to him as he slams his lawyer for 'mismanaging his money'.

He writes in 1956: 'When I give a specific instruction twice I should not be expected to take responsibility for its being dis-obeyed.

In an April 1954 letter to his lawyer Alfred Rice, Hemingway says his right kidney was ruptured, his spleen injured and he was 'weak from so much internal bleeding'. Also in the letter, Hemingway discusses shooting his first lion in Kenya but bemoans having to hire a gun as his got lost in shipping

The four page handwritten correspondence is the marquee lot in a collection of nine Hemingway letters, spanning 1939 to 1958, which are going under the hammer at auctioneers Nate D Sanders, of California, US. Above: A September 1954 letter to

The letters also divulge Hemingway's financial affairs, which were a source of frustration to him as he slams his lawyer for 'mismanaging his money

The Daily Mail's initial report of Hemingway's ordeal told how he was missing after the crash

The following day featured an account from the author after his two air crashes

'...I know it is hard for you to listen to instructions from me and rarely have I been allowed to give one without an interruption, But please read this... and digest it thoroughly before you begin objecting to it.'

The letters have been consigned by a private collector.

A Nate D Sanders spokesperson said: 'Hemingway and his wife survived, not one, but two plane crashes in the jungles of Africa.

'Hemingway suffered a broken arm and a severe brain injury which could have led to some of his volatile behaviour.'

Hemingway, who also wrote A Farewell to Arms (1929) and The Old Man and the Sea (1952), committed suicide in 1961.

The sale takes place on August 31.
A Russian political analyst has claimed warlord Yevgeny Prigozhin is alive after his body double was killed in last week's plane crash - not the Wagner chief himself.

Prigozhin is 'alive, well, and free' in an unnamed country, according to Dr Valery Solovey, even as Russia stages his funeral which Vladimir Putin is refusing to attend.

The astonishing assertion holds that Prigozhin cheated an assassination bid sanctioned by Putin and drawn up by his security council.

Prigozhin is now plotting his revenge, says the political analyst, a former professor at Moscow's prestigious Institute of International Relations [MGIMO], a training school for spies and diplomats.

Dr Solovey accuses the Russian authorities of lying over Prigozhin's DNA being found at the crash site in Tver region, while being aware the bid to kill the Wagner supremo had failed because a body double - which the warlord was known to use - got on the plane in his place.

A Russian political analyst has claimed warlord Yevgeny Prigozhin (pictured) is alive after his body double was killed in last week's plane crash - not the Wagner chief himself

This image circulating on Russian Telegram channels purports to show the fake passport of a Prigozhin body double

The site of the plane crash in Russia's Tver region last Wednesday

Prigozhin is 'alive, well, and free' in an unnamed country, according to Putin critic Dr Valery Solovey, even as Russia stages his funeral which Vladimir Putin is refusing to attend

'First, the plane in which Yevgeny Prigozhin was supposed to fly was downed by a Russian air defence system,' he said, challenging US intelligence claims that the plane was destroyed by a blast on board.

'There was no explosion on board. It was downed from the outside.'

The secret operation to carry out this strike 'was developed in [Russia's] Security Council, and was sanctioned personally by the Russian president [Vladimir Putin].'

The warlord is now 'alive, well, and free', Solovey claims.

'Prigozhin himself was not on board. His double was flying instead of him. By the way, Vladimir Putin is perfectly aware of that.

'If you believe official statements of the Russian authorities, then what can I say?'

Dr Solovey said he would reveal Prigozhin's supposed country of exile early next month but denied it was in Africa where the Wagner private army has multiple interests.

However, Prigozhin - whose funeral is expected imminently and which Putin is refusing to attend - aimed to show himself by the end of this year.

Putin's spokesman said: 'The presence of the President is not provided. We don't have any specific information on funerals. Still, the decision on this matter is made by relatives and friends.'

Exiled Prigozhin was 'preparing for revenge', insisted Dr Solovey.

'How did he end up alive while his close people died? This is the choice he [Prigozhin] was faced with.

'I'm not talking about the moral side of this choice. God forbid any of us face such a choice.

'He intends to take revenge for having been faced with such a choice. He intends to take revenge on people who were intending to destroy him, and destroyed people close to him.'

Among those who died were Wagner military commander Dmitry Utkin, 53, and flight attendant Kristina Raspopova, 39, who had revealed to her relatives both a delay in the flight and that the plane had undergone repairs before its doomed final journey.

Prigozhin has access to 1.6 billion in bitcoin, Solovey said - a fund he will use to strike back.

'That is more than enough for revenge. As for ambition, energy, and courage, he has plenty of that.'

Prigozhin's remains were positiviely identified in the wake of the plane crash according to Russian officials

A view shows a makeshift memorial for Yevgeny Prigozhin, head of the Wagner mercenary group, and Dmitry Utkin, the group commander, in Moscow, Russia August 29, 2023

Prigozhin used wigs and fake beards for disguises in Africa and the Middle East as he furthered Putin's interests and deployed Wagner forces

Dr Solovey has long claimed to have inside Kremlin knowledge and frequently claims that Putin is seriously ill, and also uses body doubles to mask his condition.

Pictures emerged in the wake of the June coup led by Prigozhin showing the warlord's purported doubles.

One was pictured in a Russian passport with Prigozhin's name. Prigozhin was also pictured in a passport with a fake name.

He used wigs and fake beards for disguises in Africa and the Middle East as he furthered Putin's interests and deployed Wagner forces.

One disguise showed him as an Employee of the Ministry of Defence in Sudan, another as an assistant diplomat from Abu Dhabi.

In a third he was mocked up as a Senior Lieutenant from Benghazi in Libya.

The versatile Prigozhin - whose Wagner forces have been used in many countries - also posed as a colonel from Tripoli, a 'merchant from Syria', and a field commander named Mohammed.

But the Russian Investigative Committee insisted he was dead as proven by his DNA being found on a corpse at the air crash site.

Others have speculated on Prigozhin being still alive.

Political scientist Ekaterina Shulman said: 'In order to hide forever, taking one of the many spare passports, a burned-out plane is also a good reason.'

And former Russian presidential candidate Ksenia Sobchak - known as Putin's goddaughter - said: 'My feeling is we are burying [Prigozhin] too early.'

A survey by Brief Telegram channel found 38 per cent believe Prigozhin is still alive.
Angry American motorists fumed, tore banners away and screamed at activists blocking Washington, DC, traffic last week in the latest showdown between eco-warriors and drivers.

The anti-fossil fuel group Declare Emergency sat in the middle of a highway on Saturday preventing any movement. That caused motorists to get out of the car and ripped banners from the protestors' hands.

'I want to work, I want to go to work,' one driver screamed.

'You don't give a f***, get the f*** out of here! We have to go to f***ing work,' another woman was heard yelling at the protestors' faces. 'We got kids to feed, b---h.'

More protestors joined the drivers to chastise the drivers and throw their signs toward the side - a stark difference from other places in the world where those who object to protest can face criminal charges.

DC police arrived to push back the angry motorists and give the Declare Emergency protestors a warning to move. The activists quickly stood up, at which point police arrested them all.

The confrontation comes at the same time a similar protest at Nevada's Burning Man festival led cops to drive a truck into protestors who blocked the road to the event's entrance.

Several people climbed out of their cars to shout at members of anti-fossil fuel group Declare Emergency, pictured here on a busy Washington, DC, highway on Saturday

Police arrived and arrested all the protestors, clearing the road and allowing motorists to continue their commutes

The latest DC protest happened in the middle of a sunny day and caused backups on both sides of the highway because of the scene.

When police arrived, an officer gave them one warning to disperse and shouted at them, 'you're not getting three warnings.' In other protests, authorities have issued multiple commands before removing participants.

It's unclear how long it took for police to arrive at the scene. DailyMail.com has reached out to officials for comment.

When police gave the warning, several protestors stood up and were immediately told they were under arrest. An officer recognized someone from a similar protest last week and told that person they were under arrest for contempt of court.

The protestors' removal led to cheers from motorists who returned to their cars.

Officers led the activists to the side of the road - helping the elderly and an older protestor who had trouble walking.

One protestor complained about not receiving three warnings, and an officer said they are not required to give multiple commands.

Authorities put zip-tie handcuffs around the protestors and they were taken from the scene in police vehicles.

The names and exact charges of the protestors has not been revealed.

The protest group said on Monday in a Tweet: 'For us, this was a great way to honor the legacy of Dr. [Martin Luther] King and to carry on his tradition of disruptive, nonviolent civil disobedience!'

Declare Emergency says on its website that getting arrested is an 'important' part of their work.

'I want to work, I want to go to work,' one man was heard saying as he proceeded to yank their banners from their hands

The furious commuters shouted at the protestors, who claimed to be doing a public service

Declare Emergency has held several demonstrations in recent weeks in DC, including previous protests that blocked traffic

The protest angered motorists who caused traffic backups and delays for people on a busy day

Motorists were not pleased about being stuck behind the wall of people blocking the road

'Mass arrest is an important strategy of historical nonviolence movements that demanded system change from their governments,' Declare Emergency said on its website.

'[E]very time the state imprisons us for nonviolently demanding a livable future, we win a moral battle.

'The more the state oppresses those asking for the right to live in a sustainable world, the less tenable its moral stance becomes in the eyes of the greater public.'

MailOnline has contacted Declare Emergency for comments on the protest.

It isn't the first time in recent weeks that Declare Emergency caused havoc in DC. In April, members of the group blocked traffic at the capital's Third Street Tunnel.

According to WTOP, six protestors entered the crosswalk and sat on the payment leading to a bevy of horns and angry commuters.

In that protest, protestors blocked traffic for about a half-an-hour. Motorists again expressed frustration with the protestors for delaying their commutes with some angrily confronting the face-to-face.

I get yalls protest, but weve got kids on the school bus who need to get to school, one of the drivers said.

Police arrived at the scene and told the protestors to leave. When the protestors stood up, cops said they were under arrest

One of the protestors complained about not receiving three warnings from police, and an office said they weren't required to issue multiple orders to leave.

The names and exact charges of the protestors has not been revealed

Declare Emergency says on its website that getting arrested is an 'important' part of their work

The fury at the DC protestors came shortly before rangers smashed through a climate protest blocking the road to the Burning Man festival in Nevada.

Video footage revealed six demonstrators from climate activism groups Seven Circles and Extinction Rebellion clogging up the road with a trailer and locking themselves to it.

The demonstration caused huge backlogs, with cars stuck in gridlock for miles.

Cops from Pyramid Lake Paiute Tribal Police Department were seen plowing straight through the blockade, before arresting the protestors.

One officer got out of the vehicle and ordered a woman to the floor at gunpoint before telling her to 'stop resisting' arrest.

The demonstrators locked themselves onto the trailer and appeared to clash with those trying to attend the Burning Man festival before police were called

A Tribal Rangers truck smashed through the demonstrators blockade, destroying several of the signs

The eco-zealots shrieked in horror and some sobbed saying 'we're non-violent' as they were hauled away.

Footage posted online shows one man telling activists that they were on 'public property' and had to 'move the f***ing mess'.

Activists then tell him to call the authorities if they want them to move, as another assured him he's 'going to eventually get' to Burning Man.

One woman can be seen chaining herself to the trailer as one of the protesters gets in another man's face, saying: 'This is a democracy, we have a right to protest.'

She tells the protester to 'lock in and shut up' like she did, but he continues to berate the angry driver saying: 'Every change in society came from civil disobedience, all of them.'

Rangers from the Pyramid Lake Paiute Tribal Police Department of Nevada drove straight through the blockade and quickly began arresting demonstrators on the road

Protestor's said they were also against 'the popularization of Burning Man among affluent people who do not live the stated values of Burning Man, resulting in the commodification of the event'

Many activists clashed with those trying to pass through, or get to the Burning Man festival by road

Many irate drivers then try to move the trailer themselves, as the female protestor screams that they're hurting her  as someone says it was a 'dumba** move'.

Another can be heard asking a protestors 'who has the gun', as the protestors say 'we have no weapons at all, we're environmental protestors'.

Guardian journalist Michelle Hooq claimed on social media the Rangers attended the protest after receiving a call 'someone in the crowd was going to shoot the activists'.

One ranger could be heard saying that the protestors were 'trespassing on tribal land', before several were arrested and taken into custody.

Photos from the protest show an XR banner that says 'Ban Private Jets', as well as other signs which say 'Burners of the world unite', and 'abolish capitalism'.

They had been clashing with those who had been trying to get to the Burning Man Festival in Nevada

The American reaction to the environmental protests, where anger and physical confrontations happened, is in stark contrast to much of the world.

In Europe, people who confront or try to disperse protesters or those blocking roads can face criminal charges.

In 2019, Mark Field, a minister in the British Foreign Office, was suspended from his role when he grabbed a Greenpeace activist who interrupted a black-tie dinner.

Footage showed Field grabbing the protestor by the neck and ushering out of the room, according to the Washington Post. Field later apologized for the incident, but noted that his actions were out of perceived danger.
The childcare worker accused of sexually abusing 91 girls in daycare centres raped one young girl 28 times, court documents allege.

The 45-year-old carer, from the Gold Coast, is charged with 1,600 child abuse offences spanning 15 years at 10 childcare centres in Brisbane, one in New South Wales and another in Europe.

Court documents seen by the Courier Mail allege that the man - who cannot be named for legal reasons - raped one of his alleged victims 28 times and sexually abused another 54 times.

The childcare worker accused of sexually abusing 91 girls in daycare centres raped one young girl 28 times, court documents allege (stock image)

Another young girl was allegedly raped 27 times and sexually abused 34 times, the court documents state, while a third girl was allegedly raped eight times and abused 24 times over three years.

The daycare worker is also accused of making child porn on the same dates as the alleged abuse.

He is also charged with 27 counts of distributing child pornography from outside Australia, when he lived in Europe.

The man's charges relate to offences committed over a 15-year period in childcare centres in Sydney, Brisbane and overseas between 2007 and 2022.

Among the allegations are 136 counts of rape and 110 counts of sexual intercourse with a child under the age of 10.

The Australian Federal Police (AFP) said they have contacted the parents of all 87 Australian victims identified in the child abuse material.

The man has remained in custody since his arrest in August last year with his case most recently mentioned in Brisbane Magistrates Court last week.

His lawyer Madeline Wood gave nothing away as she emerged from court after a successful bid to have her client's case adjourned until November.

Lawyer Madeline Wood (pictured) is defending the man charged with 136 counts of raping pre-pubescent girls

Queensland's Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) prosecutor told Brisbane Magistrates Court he's had 'preliminary discussion' with Ms Wood about the 'voluminous' amount of charges against her client.

The prosecutor said the investigation against the Gold Coast man was still trying to get evidence from witnesses overseas.

The man cannot be named due to laws in Queensland preventing the identification of people charged with rape or serious sexual offences.

Police allege further self-produced child abuse material was uncovered on electronic devices owned by the man when he was arrested and charged last year.

The AFP launched Operation Tenterfield in response, identifying children in the alleged abuse material recorded at 11 Australian childcare centres and an early learning centre attached to a school overseas.

It is alleged the man recorded his offending on phones and cameras while working in 10 childcare centres in Brisbane between 2007 to 2013, and 2018 to 2022, along with a Sydney centre between 2014 and 2017.

Other filmed offences are alleged to have taken place at the overseas location in 2013 and 2014.

All the children allegedly offended against were pre-pubescent girls.

Last year, the AFP was able to trace objects identified in the background of some of the alleged images and videos posted on the dark web between 2013 and 2014.

It led police to a Brisbane childcare centre while the man's home was also raided.

Nearly 4,000 images and videos allegedly created by the man were reviewed by officers from a joint-agency task force between the AFP, Queensland Police and the Australian Centre to Counter Child Exploitation.

The matter will be mentioned in Brisbane Magistrates Court on November 6.
Flooding has hit Fort Myers Beach for the second time in a year as Hurricane Idalia barrels towards Florida.

Shocking footage shows the town submerged as the monster storm moved closer to landfall, which is expected to hit in the early hours of Wednesday.

Streets were flooded and completely devastated by Hurricane Ian less than a year ago, with Fort Myers Beach bearing the brunt of the Category-5 hurricane.

The National Hurricane Center on Tuesday predicted water from Idalia could consume Cedar Keys completely before sweeping up to ten miles inland.

The storm has maximum sustained winds of up to 90mph - just 6mph away from a Category-2 hurricane.

It has also sparked dozens of tornado warnings across the west of the state as Floridians made last-minute preparations ahead of the storm.

States including Florida, Georgia and North Carolina all announce a state of emergency on Tuesday as the tempest prepared to wallop the coastline.

FORT MYERS BEACH: Estero Boulevard was flooded and completely devastated by Hurricane Ian less than a year ago - as Florida, Georgia and North Carolina all announce a state of emergency

The National Hurricane Center issues storm surge guidance displaying the 'worst case scenario' surge (i.e., surge that has a 1-in-10 chance of happening)



While this clearly is not guaranteed, it is deeply concerning to see the potential inundation of Cedar Key... pic.twitter.com/vhykg8twBL  Evan Fisher (@EFisherWX) August 29, 2023

KEY WEST: Visitors to the Southernmost Point buoy brave the waves for a few cell phone photos despite warnings

KEY WEST: Key West's southernmost point in Florida has become a hotspot for people to take selfies, despite the rising water levels

Currently, the hurricane is a Category 1 storm, but forecasters are expecting it to become an extremely dangerous Category 3 by landfall in the early hours of Wednesday morning

The National Hurricane Center has warned that there will be a 'life-threatening storm surge' of 10 to 12 feet across Tampa Bay and the Big Bend region of Florida

The intensity is expected to reach 125mph by landfall - which is only 5mph below Category Four strength - and hurricane force winds will extend 15 miles outwards from the center

Currently, the hurricane is a Category 1 storm, but forecasters are expecting it to become an extremely dangerous Category 3 by landfall in the early hours of Wednesday morning.

The intensity is expected to reach 125mph by landfall - which is only 5mph below Category Four strength - and hurricane-force winds will extend 15 miles outwards from the center.

Tropical storm-force winds will extend outwards up to 160 miles, with landfall expected in the Big Bend area of Florida near Steinhatchee.

Disney World confirmed that they were still operating under normal conditions as of Tuesday, but added that they were 'monitoring the path' of the storm.

The National Hurricane Center has warned that there will be a 'life-threatening storm surge' of 10 to 12 feet across Tampa Bay and the Big Bend region of Florida.

Peak levels of the surge are expected to hit between Chassahowitzka and Aucilla River, with residents advised to follow advice from local officials.

Idalia is located 275 miles south-southwest of Tampa, Florida, and is moving northward at 14mph, with the NHC warning that storm surges will be higher than anticipated.

If Tampa Bay is hit with anything above four feet of storm surge and if Cedar Key is battered by more than six feet, then it would set a new record.

Florida residents have left shelves empty as panic buying sweeps the state after Governor Ron DeSantis warned them to flee their homes.

KEY WEST: Surfers take advantage of waves rarely seen along the calm shores despite warnings about what is to come

TAMPA: Kiosks at the Southwest Airlines ticket counter are covered in protective wrapping at the Tampa International Airport as all flights were canceled

The director of the National Weather Service, Ken Graham, said 'time is running out' to prepare for Idalia, and warned that the storm could be 'especially destructive'

PINELLAS PARK: Landfall is expected in the Big Bend area of Florida near Steinhatchee. as locals panic-buying leaves shelves bare

PINELLAS PARK: A grocery store's water section is almost bare as people stock up ahead of warnings that Idalia could become at Category 3 storm

TAMPA: Grocery stores in Tampa have been raided by residents after it was announced that Idalia would grow into a major hurricane

Hurricane conditions are expected along the Gulf Coast, with the potential for destructive winds once Idalia moves onshore

KEY WEST: Waves crash against the shoreline at Higgs Beach as Hurricane Idalia passes some 175 miles to the west

Florida residents have left shelves empty as panic buying sweeps the state after Governor Ron DeSantis warned them to flee their homes

Hurricane conditions are expected along the Gulf Coast, with the potential for destructive winds once Idalia moves onshore

PINELLAS PARK: Children help out with the adults by filling bags full of sand ahead of possible flooding in the area

But Key West's southernmost point in Florida has become a hotspot for people to take selfies despite the rising water levels.

Images show couples posing for pictures while others took selfies as they were battered by waves at the monument - regardless of the major warnings.

The director of the National Weather Service, Ken Graham, said: 'Time is running out' to prepare for Idalia,' and warned that the storm could be 'especially destructive.'

At a press conference on Monday, DeSantis said it was going to be a 'major hurricane', and the areas affected had not seen a 'hurricane strike in a long, long time'.

He urged residents to 'err on the side of caution', before adding 'everyone needs to understand this is a significant event.'

DeSantis declared a state of emergency in 46 counties ahead of the storm, and the state mobilized 5,500 National Guard Members.

He also suspended tolls in several counties as he urged residents to finalize their storm and evacuation preparation.

Idalia will be one of only three Category 3 hurricanes to make landfall within 60 miles of Cedar Key.

Hurricane Easy in 1950 and an unnamed hurricane in 1896 are the only others of that strength to make landfall in that area.

The last hurricane to make landfall in the region was 2016's Hermine, which made landfall as a Category 1 storm.

CEDAR KEY: A man rolls an arcade game toward a moving truck as waterfront businesses empty out furniture and valuables

CEDAR KEY: Men work to reinforce a law firm's office on 2nd Street, where businesses and residents were preparing for potential flooding

CLEARWATER: Workers with Pike Electric fortify power lines ahead of the hurricane in a bid to prevent mass power outages

PINELLAS PARK: Edgar Rocha (L) and Paul Xy fill sandbags at the Helen S. Howarth Community Park

CEDAR KEYS: Locals are boarding up their stores and restaurants ahead of Hurricane Idalia in a bid to prevent major damage

CEDAR KEYS: Residents have been told to evacuate in 22 counties across the Sunshine State as they prepare for the storm

Dangerous, life-threatening storm surge, hurricane-force winds and heavy rain are all expected along portions of Florida's West Coast as early as Tuesday.

The NWS in Tallahassee said that the storm was an 'unprecedented event' as there is no major hurricane that has ever moved through the Apalachee Bay.

They added: 'When you try to compare this storm to others, DON'T. No one has seen this.'

FEMA administrator Deanne Criswell confirmed that the Biden administration made a supplemental request to Congress for $12billion to support the agency's disaster relief fund.

She added: 'This storm will be deadly if we don't get out of harm's way and take it seriously. If they tell you to evacuate, please do so.

'It's critical the people in the path of this storm are also prepared,. This storm is very strong, and is expected to strengthen.'

Parts of south Georgia and North and South Carolina are expected to see significant impacts from the Hurricane by Wednesday.

Four to 8 inches of rain could fall from Tuesday to Thursday in those places, flooding streets.

North Carolina has declared a state of emergency ahead of the possible impact, Governor Roy Cooper confirmed.

Georgia Governor Brian Kemp confirmed that the state was also under a state of emergency, and could be hit by up to six inches of rain.

TAMPA: The arrivals board at the Tampa International Airport shows nothing but cancelled flights on Tuesday

CEDAR KEYS: Caution tape has been wrapped around outdoor structures in a bid to prevent loss or damage

KEY WEST: 'Waves crashing over embankment in Key West at the Southernmost Beach Resort as Idalia makes it's way towards the coast

ROCKS BEACH: Steve Leitgeb, Michelle Fedeles, and Brandon Hadley place protective shutters over the openings at Coco's Crush Bar & Grill

TAMPA: Delta Airlines gates are empty at the Tampa International Airport after hundreds of flights canceled

CLEARWATER: Many places have started to board up stores in preparation for the hurricane to hit

Hundreds of flights have been canceled or delayed in preparation for the hurricane, with all flights from Tampa International Airport banning flights from Tuesday.

The FAA confirmed that they were taking additional safety precautions, including backup power generators and protecting equipment inside of air traffic control towers to prevent damage from leaks or broken windows.

Some of the nation's largest airlines added that they would waive change fees for customers with plans to travel to or through parts of Florida, Georgia and South Carolina in the coming days.

Urban search and rescue teams are on standby from the Federal Emergency Management Agency, while the Army Corps of Engineers is set to support power generation missions.

Before making landfall, the hurricane could produce some tornadoes on Tuesday along the west central Florida coast.

Hillsborough County officials urged residents to prepare for Hurricane Idalia and to move away from the water, including the city of Tampa.

Amtrak announced that it was canceling several trains due to the hangover of Idalia, with 12 East Coast routes behind terminated on Tuesday and Wednesday.

The company has also shortened Palmetto routes for those two days, which usually run from New York to Savannah, in Georgia, and will instead stop at Washington DC.

Idalia thrashed Cuba with heavy rain, especially in the westernmost part of the island.

The tobacco-producing province of Pinar del Rio is still recovering from the devastation caused by Hurricane Ian.

CUBA: People walk through a flooded street in Batabano, Mayabeque province, following Hurricane Idalia

CUBA: A couple ride a horse drawn carriage through a flooded street

CUBA: A member of the Cuban Red Cross works on a flooded street in Batabano, Mayabeque province

CUBA: Many were prepared for the battering after being hit by Hurricane Ian at the same time last year

CUBA: Residents in Batabano, Mayabeque Province, waded their way through the floodwater ahead of the peak storm hitting

CUBA: Residents in Havana, Cuba, battle their way through the flooded streets after being hit by Idalia

CUBA: A resident attempts to make his way home after forecasters warned that the conditions will become 'extremely dangerous'

CUBA: Residents in Cuba have been braced for flash flooding and landslides as Hurricane Idalia batters the island

Authorities in the province issued a state of alert, and residents were evacuated as four inches of rain falling on Sunday.

Heavy rainfall and potential flash flooding are expected in parts of western Cuba, with landslides expected.

Hurricane conditions are expected along the Gulf Coast, with the potential for destructive winds once Idalia moves onshore.

In a statement, the NHC said on Tuesday morning: 'Idalia strengthening as it moves northward over the southeastern Gulf of Mexico.

'There is a danger of life-threatening storm surge along portions of the Florida Gulf coast.

'Heavy rainfall has the potential to produce flash and urban flooding across portions of the west coast of Florida, the Florida Panhandle, and southern Georgia.'

Hurricane Franklin, a major Category 4 hurricane, is expected to skirt along the East Coast - passing Bermuda on Wednesday and start to weaken on Tuesday afternoon.

It brought life-threatening surf and rip currents along the US southeastern coastline on Tuesday, with 140mph sustained winds - but is not expected to cause the level of damage as Idalia.

Coastal areas in Cape Sable and the Florida Keys have also been warned that they could see storm surges of up to two or three feet above ground level as Idalia approaches.
A Chinese national has been detained for throwing bricks at the Japanese embassy in Beijing.

Embassy officials say the incident occurred on August 24, the day Tokyo Electric Power Company began releasing treated and diluted water from the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear plant into the ocean.

The officials said the suspect was captured by police at the scene, and that there was no damage to the embassy's facilities and no staff were injured.

Since the discharge began, stones and eggs have been hurled at Japanese schools in Qingdao, Shandong Province and in Suzhou, Jiangsu Province. Officials at the Japanese embassy and consulates-general in China said they have received many harassing phone calls.

Japanese embassy officials have taken steps to prepare for unexpected incidents, including boosting security presence at the embassy.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin told reporters on Monday that his country "protects and ensures the safety and lawful rights and interests of foreign nationals in China in accordance with laws." He reiterated that Beijing strongly urges Japan to "stop dumping nuclear-contaminated water into the sea."

Beijing has responded by ordering a suspension to all imports of Japanese sea food. ...continue reading
A paedophile music teacher who sexually abused two of his students will be allowed to take his own life under assisted dying laws.

Malcolm Day, 81, has 17 years left on his 20-year prison sentence and has been diagnosed with a terminal illness, possibly cancer, 9 News reports.

The sex offender, from Adelaide, wants to take his own life under South Australia's euthanasia laws and is understood to be near the end of the application process.

Malcolm Day, 81, has 17 years left on his 20-year prison sentence and has been diagnosed with a terminal illness, possibly cancer

Thirty-nine South Australians with terminal illnesses have taken their own lives under the voluntary assisted dying legislation since it was introduced in January.

Day groomed and abused the students - one as young as 10 - in the 1980s and denied any wrongdoing when questioned by the state's education department.

He was only jailed for his sick crimes last June and is not eligible for parole until 2034.

His barrister Stephen Ey said it was likely his client would die in prison given his age.

Day groomed and abused the students - one as young as 10 - in the 1980s and denied any wrongdoing when questioned by the state's education department

'He is 80 years old and the current average life expectancy for a male is 82.9 years,' Mr Ey said in court last year.

'Given that he still has six years to go on his current non-parole period, it's likely that he will die in jail  he has to face up to that.'

At the time, one of his victims described the abuse she suffered as 'selfish and disgraceful'.

Judge Jo-Anne Deuter said she had 'carried through her life the crushing burden of pain, distrust and your lies for 40 years'.
A French patrol vessel 'escorted a migrant boat' as it floated into UK water towards Dover today, as the number of asylum seekers who have arrived across the Channel this year nears 20,000.

Crossings resumed on Tuesday, with pictures showing a dinghy packed with men and boys, some without lifejackets, perched on the sides while their legs dangled in the water.

According to witnesses, a nearby French patrol vessel appeared to be escorting and monitoring the boat as it floated into UK waters towards Dover before it was met by Border Force and later taken ashore at the Kent port.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said the number of migrant arrivals was lower than last year and this showed his plan to 'stop the boats' was 'working'.

Provisional Home Office data shows that in 2023 so far 19,801 migrants have arrived in the UK after crossing the Channel.

A group of people thought to be migrants are escorted by a French patrol vessel as they cross the Channel in a small boat travelling from the coast of France

The people were believed to have been travelling from the coast of France, heading in the direction of Dover, Kent

The supposed arrival comes after it was revealed migrants who land in the UK in small boats could be forced to wear electronic tags under Home Office proposals

This is 21 per cent down on this time last year when more than 25,000 people had already made the journey, analysis of Government figures shows.

The pace and volume of crossings slowed over the bank holiday weekend, with just 60 people detected making the journey in one boat on Sunday and no crossings recorded on Saturday or Monday, according to revised Home Office figures.

Pictures showed people believed to be migrants sitting aboard a dinghy, which was 'escorted' by a French patrol vessel. The boat was then met by Border Force and migrants were taken ashore.

The supposed arrival comes after it was revealed migrants who land in the UK in small boats could be forced to wear electronic tags under Home Office proposals.

UK charity Refugee Council criticised the plan, claiming it would result in vulnerable people in search of safety being 'treated as mere objects'.

A total of 175,457 people were waiting for an initial decision on an asylum application in the UK at the end of June 2023, up 44 per cent from 122,213 at the end of June 2022. This was the highest figure since current records began in 2010.

Figures also show the number of asylum seekers waiting more than six months for an initial decision stood at 139,961 at the end of June, up 57 per cent year on year from 89,231 and another record.

The idea to tag migrants, first mooted more than a year ago, has resurfaced as Rishi Sunak attempts to get a handle on immigration and stop people illegally gaining entry to the UK.

The migrants would be GPS tracked in real time and required to report via text message or in person to immigration officers multiple times a day, the Telegraph reported.

Border Force officials are pictured helping people thought to be migrants ashore in Dover, Kent, today

A group of people thought to be migrants are rescued by Border Force vessel Defender as they cross the Channel in a small boat

Border Force escorted the migrants ashore after they were pictured traveling across the Channel towards the UK

UK charity Refugee Council criticised the plan to tag migrants, claiming it would result in vulnerable people in search of safety being 'treated as mere objects'

Any attempt to remove the tag and abscond would result in any right to bail or to remain in the UK being automatically withdrawn.

A source told The Telegraph : 'Tagging is being discussed as an option.'

Refugee Council Chief executive Enver Solomon told The Independent: 'It's treating people as mere objects rather than vulnerable men, women and children in search of safety who should always be treated with compassion and humanity, in the same way we welcomed Ukrainian refugees.

'This is not who we are as a country nor the Britain we aspire to be.'

Refugee Gulwali Passarlay, who fled Afghanistan, also told the paper that his friend has been made to wear a tag since arriving in the UK as a refugee and that it has impacted his mental health.

He said: 'How would normal people feel if they were electronically tagged just for being who they are? We're surveilling the most vulnerable people in our society.'
A Russian tourist has vanished in Egypt after diving 'too deep' to 400ft with her husband as they explored underwater caves.

Kristina Osipova, 44, didn't resurface after plunging below internationally allowed depths with her husband Yuri Osipov, 41.

Mr Osipov surfaced unconscious after aborting his dive because he felt uncomfortable, but his wife continued to go deeper as they explored spectacular underwater caves, according to reports.

A search is under way for Mrs Osipova, who has four children aged between five and 24. The search continues for a fourth day after she was lost on a ten-day cruise in the Red Sea.

Russian Consulate General diplomat Alexei Zhilyaev said: 'After the husband's ascent, the computer showed a maximum depth of 122 metres [400ft]. This is the depth at which they were and both lost consciousness.

Kristina Osipova (left), 44, didn't resurface after plunging below internationally allowed depths with her husband Yuri Osipov (right), 41

Mr Osipov surfaced unconscious after aborting his dive because he felt uncomfortable, but his wife continued to go deeper as they explored spectacular underwater caves, according to reports

A search is under way for Mrs Osipova, who has four children aged between five and 24. The search continues for a fourth day after she was lost on a ten-day cruise in the Red Sea

'When her husband surfaced and regained consciousness, his wife was not around.'

The search area has been expanded but there is little hope of finding her alive, say rescuers.

Her frantic husband has been taking part in the searches.

Rescue ship commander Mustafa Nabil told REN TV her body may not be found if carried away by a strong undercurrent.

They had been in a tourist group of nine diving to caves at a depth of 120ft off Giftun Island, south of resort Hurghada.

The couple reportedly then dived deeper 'without any special equipment'.

The search area has been expanded but there is little hope of finding her alive, say rescuers. Her frantic husband has been taking part in the searches

Rescue ship commander Mustafa Nabil told REN TV Mrs Osipova's (left) body may not be found if carried away by a strong undercurrent

'Her husband said he began to lose consciousness, what we call nitrogen narcosis, which makes divers feel intoxicated while diving,' said Nabil.

But the man managed to swim out, and the woman remained in the water.

'We are still searching for the missing person, we have also informed all ships in the area that if anyone sees the body of a missing diver on the surface to contact law enforcement.'

A record-breaking diver went down to the depth they had been but saw no sign of her.

At least four boats are involved in the search.

The couple, from St Petersburg, are reported to be experienced divers.

The underwater caves - formed by rocks overgrown with corals - are popular on Giftun Island.
The SNP was accused of being 'asleep at the wheel' today as deaths due to alcohol in Scotland hit a 14-year high.

Official figures showed the grim tally reached 1,276 last year, up from 1,245 in 2021. The increase was driven by a sharp rise in deaths among women, to a new record peak of 440.

Scottish Tories said the 'shocking' findings showed that the separatists' minimum alcohol pricing (MUP) policy is 'simply not working'. When it was introduced in 2018 there were 1,276 deaths classed as down to alcohol.

But SNP minister Elena Whitham claimed the numbers would be even worse without the rules. She also refused to rule out banning advertising of alcohol - something Humza Yousaf shelved when he took over as First Minister.

The age standardised mortality rate  which provides a weighted average per 100,000 of population  was 22.9 last year, the highest since 2009 when it was 23.

Official figures showed the grim tally reached 1,276 last year, up from 1,245 in 2021. The increase was driven by a sharp rise in deaths among women, to a new record peak of 440

The rate for those in the least affluent 20 per cent of areas was 41.7, compared with just 9.6 in the richest 20 per cent.

The majority of deaths in 2022 were recorded in men, with 836 deaths logged.

This was the same figure as the previous year, meaning the entirety of the increase in deaths was recorded in women. Overall deaths have not been higher since 2008, when they stood at 1,316.

The NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde health board area  the largest in the country  recorded the highest number of deaths with 326, followed by NHS Lanarkshire with 200 and NHS Lothian  which includes Edinburgh  with 153.

The majority of deaths logged alcoholic liver disease as an underlying cause of death, with 778.

Ms Whitham said the MUP policy  which places a minimum charge of 50p per unit of alcohol  was working.

She pointed to a report published by Public Health Scotland (PHS) in June, finding that alcohol deaths had reduced by 13.4 per cent since 2008 - even though the official figures show they have risen.

'I think if we didn't have minimum unit pricing in place, I think that the deaths that we would be seeing today would have been higher,' she said.

The Scottish Government has come under fire for altering a press release about the PHS report to say MUP is 'estimated to have saved lives', instead of the original claim that 'our world-leading policy is saving lives'.

The minister said it was 'really important' the Scottish Government 'take the time' to assess what was behind the rise in alcohol deaths, as well as what can be done over the increase in deaths among women.

Scottish Tory health spokesman Dr Sandesh Gulhane said the figures were 'utterly shocking' and claimed MUP was 'simply not working'.

'It is increasingly proving to be a blunt instrument to tackle a complex problem,' he added.

'The SNP Government have even now had to embarrassingly amend a press release in which they were boasting about the apparent success of minimum unit pricing.'

Scottish Labour public health spokeswoman Carol Mochan said: 'This is a public health emergency on the same scale as Scotland's drug death crisis, and both are the legacy of the SNP's shameful cuts to Drug and Alcohol Partnerships.

'The SNP's failure on public health is costing lives and devastating the poorest communities  we urgently need a comprehensive plan to support treatment services and ensure those struggling with alcohol can get the help they need.'

Dr Alastair MacGilchrist, chairman of Scottish Health Action on Alcohol Problems, said he was 'saddened' by the figures, adding: 'The Scottish Government must do more to ensure that this level of harm does not continue.

'It is essential that our government addresses this public health emergency with the appropriate urgency and priority.

Humza Yousaf (pictured) and the SNP have been under intense pressure for their dismal record in tackling drugs and alcohol deaths

'It is vital that policies such as MUP remain in place to continue to reduce alcohol-related harms. The level at which MUP is set should be raised to at least 65p to maintain its benefit.

'Alongside this, the Scottish Government must address the wider availability and marketing of alcohol, in order to tackle the inescapable exposure to alcohol experienced by children and other vulnerable groups, such as people in recovery.'

But Alcohol Focus Scotland said the increase was 'unacceptable', with the group's deputy chief executive Laura Mahon adding: 'For the third year in a row we've seen deaths caused by alcohol increasing.

'This is completely unacceptable, with each of these deaths being preventable.

'We need to be going further and faster in our efforts to reverse this appalling trend.'

She added that the MUP should be increased to 65p.
A Florida mom with no criminal record has shot dead her two children before turning the gun on herself, cops have said.

Brandy Hutchins, 43, is believed to have killed her son Aiden Hutchins, 10, and daughter Hannah Griner, 19, inside a trailer in the tiny town of Waverly on Sunday.

Polk County Sheriff's Office said her children had different fathers, and Hutchins, who worked in insurance, had just lost custody of Aiden to her ex-husband.

The 10-year-old was due to go live with his father in Maine, and Hutchins had been ordered to hand him over at Polk County police station by 6pm on Friday.

But Hutchins failed to relinquish Aiden to officers, and a frantic search for him ensued over the weekend - eventually leading police to a mobile home in Waverly, central Florida.

Brandy Hutchins, 43 (pictured), is believed to have killed her son Aiden Hutchins, 10, and daughter Hannah Griner, 19, inside a trailer in the tiny town of Waverly on Sunday, shortly after losing custody of the boy to her ex-husband

Aiden's heartbroken father, who is named on Facebook as Nick Hutchins, pleaded for help finding his son at the weekend, and posted photographs of them together (pictured) after learning of his death

Hannah Griner, 19, was named by her devastated boyfriend Dylan Kirk on Facebook, who paid tribute to her as his 'soul mate'

Cops found Hutchins and her two children dead at around 12.30pm on Sunday in what Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd described as a 'horrific' tragedy.

Judd said the case is even more shocking because Hutchins had 'no criminal history' and there was 'no indication' she had any inclination towards violence.

'I cannot imagine a more horrific set of circumstances,' he said. 'My heart breaks for all of the family.

'We're devastated for this beautiful 10-year-old child, all because mom did not want to turn the child over to the rightful father pursuant to a court order.

'What's interesting about this is that she has no criminal history, she has no history of Baker Acts, there is no indication there should be any violence - but it was violent.

'We deal with hundreds of thousands of court orders, and for one to turn out like this is just almost never - but "never" occurred today.'

Sheriff Judd said the tragedy stemmed from 'a domestic event whereby an ex husband and an ex wife were dealing with child custody'.

'To get to the bottom line, this last Thursday the ex husband had come down from Maine to appear in court with his ex wife because she had not appropriately turned over custody of their 10-year-old beautiful little boy,' he said.

'The judge listened to the arguments and directed her to turn over the child at this district station by Friday afternoon at 6 o'clock.

'Well Friday afternoon at 6 o'clock came and went, and the child was not turned over pursuant to the judge's order.

'At this point in time there was absolutely zero evidence in the court order or testimony that there was any violence or threat of violence or danger.'

Police were called to a mobile home in the tiny town of Waverly, central Florida, at around 12.30pm on Sunday where they found Hutchins (pictured) and her two children dead

He said detectives worked through the weekend to try to locate the boy so they could turn him over to his father.

'We pinged phones, we looked for the child,' he said. 'The friends also did some social media. They said "hey, if you've seen the child let us know".'

Sheriff Judd said there is 'a lot of investigation to still occur' and detectives have not yet identified a trigger point or motive for the suspected murder-suicide.

They were unable to give the exact address of the incident due to Florida laws.

Aiden's heartbroken father, named on Facebook as Nick Hutchins, pleaded for help finding his son at the weekend, and posted photographs of them together after learning of his death.

'It is with a heavy heart that I am writing this to give everyone an update about my son Aiden Hutchins who was missing and taken by his mother on August 25 2023 who decided to murder him.. he was killed by her today August 27 2023,' he said.

'He will forever be in my heart and did not deserve this. Rest in peace my sweet boy I will see you again. I love you.'

Judd said the case is even more shocking because Hutchins (pictured) had 'no criminal history' and there was 'no indication' she had any inclination towards violence. She worked in insurance, according to her LinkedIn profile

Sheriff Judd said there is 'a lot of investigation to still occur' and detectives have not yet identified a trigger point or motive for the suspected murder-suicide

He shared photographs of his son smiling beside him in a clothes store, and playing in their house.

Meanwhile, Dylan Kirk, the devastated boyfriend of Hutchins' daughter, posted dozens of photographs in tribute to his 'soul mate'.

'I dont even know what to say Hannah Griner I love you with all my heart I dont know what to do right now its so unreal I will forever love you,' he said.

'You were my soul mate for sure but youve been taken from me way to early I love you Hannah Im soooo sorry this happened to you didnt deserve this I dont know what to do without you Im lost . I LOVE YOU FOREVER AND ALWAYS HANNAH  FLY HIGH Hannah I love you babe.'
The FBI is searching for more than a dozen Uzbek nationals who claimed asylum at the southern border after evidence emerged they traveled with the help of an ISIS-linked human trafficker, according to a report.

Officials are still working to 'identify and assess' all of the individuals in the group who entered the US, National Security Council spokesman Adrienne Watson told CNN in a statement.

The FBI told DailyMail.com that no specific ISIS plot has been identified in connection with the group of foreign nationals, but that the bureau is investigating the possibility of any illegal activity or terrorism threats.

The group of migrants from Uzbekistan requested asylum at the border earlier this year, were screened by the Department of Homeland Security and released into the US pending a court date on their asylum claims after no red flags were raised.

Alarm bells only went off later when the FBI later learned they had traveled with the help of a network that helps Uzbeks get to the US, and that the network included at least one person with ties to ISIS.

The FBI is searching for more than a dozen Uzbek nationals who claimed asylum at the southern border, after it emerged an ISIS-linked trafficker facilitated their travel (file photo)

Texas National Guard and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agents stand guard at the border between El Paso, Texas, and Ciudad Juarez, state of Chihuahua, Mexico, on August 7

'Whenever we have indicators that criminal actorssuch as those involved in human smugglinghave connections to terrorism, we work diligently with our partners to investigate and understand how foreign terrorist organizations may attempt to exploit their capabilities so that we can best mitigate any risk to the American public,' the FBI told DailyMail.com in a statement.

'While the FBI has not identified a specific terrorism plot associated with foreign nationals who recently entered the United States at the southern border, we always work with our field offices across the country, as well as our domestic and international partners, to identify any potential illegal activity or terrorism threats,' the bureau said.

A federal law enforcement official said the FBI is working with other intelligence and law enforcement agencies to investigate anyone with suspected terrorism ties who may pose a threat to Americans, 'regardless of how they arrive in the US.'

The incident involving the Uzbekistanis was so alarming that President Joe Biden's top Cabinet officials received an urgent classified intelligence report in their daily briefing books, according to the CNN report.

Some counterterrorism officials believe it illustrates the country's vulnerability to the possibility that terrorists could sneak across the southern border amid a huge surge of migrants seeking asylum.

The FBI is working to locate the migrants and investigate their background, and the US is working with Turkish officials, who arrested the human smuggler and other members of his network, the outlet reported.

Although two US officials told CNN they are closely scrutinizing a number of the migrants as possible criminal threats, there is no evidence at this point to justify detaining anyone.

'There was no indicationand remains no indicationthat any of the individuals facilitated by this network have a connection to a foreign terrorist organization or are engaged in plotting a terrorist attack in the United States,' Watson told CNN.

In July, arrests for illegally crossing the US border from Mexico soared 33 percent from the prior month, reversing course after a plunge that followed the introduction of new asylum rules in May.

Biden's administration has expanded legal routes for claiming asylum, including through a government mobile app, while imposing more punitive measures on those who enter illegally.

Total encounters at the southern border rose last month, including 132,652 Border Patrol arrests and 50,851 asylum claims at legal ports of entry

Migrants gathered at a railroad bridge at the border on August 7, after a false rumor spread that the US would open its border to irregular migration on August 8

The Border Patrol stopped migrants 132,652 times in July along the southern border, up from 99,545 in June but down from 181,834 times in July 2022.

The increase from June to July was driven by a larger presence of families traveling with children - nearly doubling to 60,161 arrests.

Crossings were widely expected to increase after pandemic-related asylum restrictions ended May 11 but they fell in June to the second-lowest of Biden's presidency, after new rules that make it extremely difficult to get asylum when crossing the border illegally.

The latest numbers also reflect a sharp increase in the use of the government's CBP One mobile app through which up to 1,450 migrants can day get appointments at land crossings with Mexico to seek asylum.

During July, authorities admitted more than 50,000 migrants at official crossings, a 12 percent increase from June, including more than 44,700 with CBP One appointments.
The head of worldwide security at Apple is set to stand trial accused of bribing police with iPads in a bid to secure gun permits for his staff.

But the company appears to be standing by Thomas Moyer after he was charged with offering up to 200 of the devices to the Santa Clara County Sheriffs Office following a series of death threats to Apple CEO Tim Cook.

Former County Sheriff Laurie Smith was convicted last year of abusing her power to grant permits in exchange for campaign donations, and charges have now been reinstated against Moyer by Californias 6th District Court of Appeal.

Moyer is right back where he should be, said District Attorney Jeff Rosen, on the trial calendar and charged with bribery.

Apples executive protection team applied for concealed carry weapon permits in 2018 after becoming concerned about its ability to respond to more serious threats made against Cook.

Apple head of global security reportedly offered up to 200 iPads in exchange for gun licences

Santa Clara County Sheriff Laurie Smith resigned in disgrace last year after being convicted of receiving bribes in exchange for gun permits

The company became 'increasingly concerned about its ability to respond to threats' against CEO Tim Cook

The company donated to Smiths re-election campaign but the application was languishing for months before Moyer had a meeting in February 2019 with under-sheriff Rick Sung, and captain James Jensen at Apple Park in Cupertino.

Moyer sent himself an email with the subject line IPad Donation during the meeting and started secretly collecting the sheriffs iPads, SFGate reported.

But it was the following month before Moyer secured the licenses after Sung told a police colleague to think bigger, and increased the demand from 50 to 200 iPads, worth up to $80,000.

Cook succeeded Apple founder Steve Jobs as chief executive in 2011 and three years later was the first CEO of a Fortune 500 company to publicly come out as gay.

Cook was the first Fortune 500 CEO to come out as gay

In February 2020 a restraining order was granted against Rakesh Rocky Sharma who left disturbing voicemails on Cooks phone and was twice found trespassing at his Silicon Valley home.

And in January last year a restraining order was issued Julia Lee Choi, 45, of McLean, Virginia, who was accused of stalking Cook for more than a year, making numerous credible threats, and emailing him photographs of loaded handguns.

Moyer canceled the iPad donation in August 2019 after speaking with a company attorney, but a grand jury indicted him for bribery along with Sung and Jensen three months later.

Moyers case was dismissed by a lower court which cited a lack of evidence, but it was reinstated on Friday with prosecutors insisting he had corrupt intent in offering the iPads.

The appeal court judges said his struggle to secure the permits gave Mayor ample ground to think that a bribe would be needed.

Apple has not commented on the courts decision but stood by its security chief when the allegations surfaced in 2020.

Smith was Santa Clara's first female county sheriff and spent 50 years in the department before her resignation

We expect all of our employees to conduct themselves with integrity, an Apple spokesperson said at the time.

After learning of the allegations, we conducted a thorough internal investigation and found no wrongdoing.

Moyers lawyer Ed Swanson told SFGate they strongly believe the Court of Appeal reached the wrong conclusion.

Tom Moyer did not commit a crime, and we will continue fighting this case until he is exonerated, he added.
Seattle police say its part of a pattern of black teens targeting Asian victims in the area

Footage shows the moment he was followed up to the door of a property

Two masked men were filmed using a taser to rob a man in broad daylight

Stunning doorbell footage catches the moment two armed suspects approach, tase and rob an Asian man on the front porch of a home in crime-ravaged Seattle.

The man is seen walking up to the property and trying to open the door of a Beacon Hill home around 4:40pm on August 26 when the two masked men run up behind him, pointing a gun in his face.

Just a few seconds later, the victim cries out in pain as he's shocked with a taser, becoming frozen as he falls backward.

The suspects then robbed the victim, including taking the rings off his fingers.

Police say they are investigating the case, and it appears to be part of a string of robberies where black teens are targeting Asian victims in the area.

Two masked men were filmed using a taser to rob a man in broad daylight at a Seattle home

The men are seen standing over him as they take whatever they can

The entire freighting incident was filmed, though it's unknown the extent of the victim's injuries.

'Give me everything you've got,' one of the suspects is heard demanding of the victim.

The robbers noticed the camera and turned it away, but it fell back into position and continued to record the incident.

As the man lay still, the suspects stood over him, robbing him of his personal belongings, including his wallet, rings, gold necklace, car keys and iPhone.

It is not clear if the man in the video lived at the home. The owners of the property have since declined to speak out, Kiro 7 reported.

Seattle police detectives are now hunting for the two men seen in the video, who say the robbery is part of a pattern of crime of masked black teens targeting Asian victims.

A clip of the attack was posted to Reddit, prompting an outpouring of support for the man.

'Poor guy,' one person wrote.

'This sucks so bad man,' another said.

Footage shows the moment he was followed up to the door of a property

The victim turns to find a gun pointed at him before he is shocked with a taser and unable to move

Someone else who claimed to be a first generation Asian that has lived in Seattle for their whole life said this type of targeted violence was the norm.

'This stuff isnt new. Ive been robbed/assaulted getting off the bus multiple times, house broken in by people following me home thinking I have a lot of cash in a jacket somewhere,' they explained.

'Once, someone cut part of my finger off to get a ring my grandmother gave me while two guys held me down.

'These are scars that I know carry my whole life. What is new is that its being caught on camera now of targeted violence was to be expected.'

Seattle has one of the highest property crime rates in the nation, with vehicle thefts skyrocketing 30 percent last year, and overall crime was up four percent. Homicides climbed by 24 percent last year.

Since June, officers say there has been 14 reports of armed robberies targeting people at individual homes in Rainier Beach, Beacon Hill, Columbia City and across the South Precinct.

Residents say the rising crime rate and rampant homelessness is making them feel pressured to move to other areas to protect their family's safety.

Data revealed 7 percent of adults in the Seattle metro area felt pressure to move in the last six months because of safety concerns in their neighborhood.

That 7 percent equals about 227,000 people and includes King, Pierce and Snohomish counties.

From 2020 to 2022, the homeless population in Seattle grew by roughly 38 percent. There are now about 40,000 people reportedly living without homes in King County

The city has faced a host of issues since the pandemic, which led to a pronounced spike in the violent crime rate that is now driving adults away.

In 2021, following the death of George Floyd, the famously progressive city slashed its police department's budget by about $7million.

From 2020 to 2022, the homeless population in Seattle grew by roughly 38 percent. There are now about 40,000 people reportedly living without homes in King County.

Earlier this month, members of an affluent Seattle neighborhood became enraged at a local homeless population for setting up a swimming pool in their encampment.

In early July, DailyMail.com reported a July 4 parade had to be re-routed to avoid a fentanyl-riddled homeless encampment for 'everyone's safety.'

Some business owners in the city also told local outlets that they have lost customers who no longer feel safe in the city.
An Ontario school has been slammed for hiring a trans teacher who has become known for her giant Z-cup breasts - after bosses called for 'respect and dignity.'

Kayla Lemieux was hired by the Nora Frances Henderson Secondary School in Hamilton, after she was put on paid leave from her previous school, Oakville Trafalgar High, over complaints about her huge chest.

People have been using a Facebook page with the school's name to express their rage at the school's decision to hire her.

'Sack the school board,' demanded a Facebook user named Mike Bennett. 'One would certainly hope that there is a 'staff' dress code applicable to all staff & no see thru shirts with nipples (fake ones or real) showing in front of impressionable students.

'Good luck with your relocated teacher,' said another commentator named Carli Landers.

Kayla Lemieux was hired by the Nora Frances Henderson Secondary School in Hamilton

She was put on paid leave from her previous school, Oakville Trafalgar high, over complaints about her huge chest

The Canadian educator is believed to have been spotted twice without her gigantic breasts

'It seems like the teacher is trying to get fired like Mr Garrison to collect a lot of Canadough,' added Eli Christman.

'I think it's a shame what the kids have to go through, being buzzed in and all that. They're being treated like criminals for a teacher to parade their fetish around.'

The Facebook page has for years been used as an online community for the school, but it's not officially affiliated with the school, which has reportedly been taken down following backlash.

Parents of children who attend Nora Frances Henderson have already been warned to expect 'disruptions' including increased security measures according to a memo seen by the Toronto Sun.

DailyMail.com has reached out to the school for comment on this story.

Principal Tom Fisher outlined that Hamilton-Wentworth District School Board school has 'an obligation to uphold individual rights and treat everyone with dignity and respect'

People have been using a Facebook page with the school's name to express their rage at the school's decision to hire Lemieux

The Facebook page has for years been used as an online community for the school, but it's not the official page for the school, which has reportedly been taken down following backlash

In a photo taken about two weeks ago and being circulated amongst concerned parents, Lemieux, can be seen sporting a wig, glasses and her oversized prosthetic breasts.

'The problem's just moved somewhere else. The definition of insanity is doing the same thing and expecting a different result,' said Celina Close, a parent of a child attending Oakville Trafalgar high.

'What justification is there for Lemieux to be back teaching?' Close went on in an interview with the New York Post.

'They're telling parents they're taking safety precautions for the kids but won't say anything about what the justification is for Lemieux to be back in the classroom, which is the root cause of the problem.

Voodoo said he was only focused on jumping out of the plane, and discussing his personal feelings about transgender people with Lemieux would be counterproductive to their safety

In November, Lemieux was pictured skydiving with a male porn star named Voodoo, whose real name is Alexandre Boisvert

'The parents at Nora Frances Henderson should be concerned about their children's safety,' Close said.

Principal Tom Fisher outlined that Hamilton-Wentworth District School Board school has 'an obligation to uphold individual rights and treat everyone with dignity and respect.'

He said the school will dramatically overhaul their policies to accommodate the hiring of Lemieux, which has been defended in a memo sent to parents.

New strategies will include 'having students enter and exit the building using assigned doors at entry and dismissal' and 'locking exterior doors during school hours, only using the front main doors during school hours'.

All students and visitors will also be made to use an intercom system to enter and exit the building while parents have been asked 'to email or call before coming to the school if they wish to visit to speak to an employee.'

Fisher said he's committed to communicating to parents as openly and as frequently as possible to ensure student safety  and to share any operational plans should the school be subject to any 'disruptions or protests,' the Toronto Sun reported.

Lemieux claims to be intersex - meaning the teacher was born with both male and female sex organs.

But her account was called into question when pictures emerged appearing to show her dressed as a man - without the large prosthetics and blonde wig.

Despite being photographed without her breasts when not in the classroom, Lemieux insists her breasts are natural - a result of a condition called 'gigantomastia.'

'The diagnosis is based on verbal discussions I have had with my doctor,' Lemieux told the Toronto Sun in February.
The University of North Carolina shooting suspect was pictured with his academic advisor just months before he allegedly shot him dead, DailyMail.com can reveal.

Tailei Qi and his academic advisor Zijie Yan were seen in a photograph previously circled by the college before the horror attack on Monday.

Yan can be seen smiling while Qi looks more serious in the shot that was shared on the physics team's website.

Qi, a physics PhD graduate and former Wuhan University student, was arrested near the campus on Monday and charged with first-degree murder on Tuesday.

The suspected murder weapon has not yet been found, with authorities unable to confirm how Qi got hold of the weapon.

However state law in North Carolina means that Qi, as a non-US national, would not have been able to legally buy a gun.

Tailei Qi (second right) and his academic advisor Zijie Yan (left) were seen in a photograph previously circled by the college before the horror attack on Monday

A UNC faculty member, Zijie Yan, was shot and killed. He was the suspect's academic advisor, it has been revealed

UNC grad student Tailei Qi has been charged with first-degree shooting over Monday's shooting at the Chapel Hill campus

It has since emerged Yan had taught Qi as part of a physics research group, according to the UNC website.

Yan had worked at the university as an associate professor in the Department of Applied Physical Sciences.

Qi reportedly worked closely with Yan's research group at UNC, which focused on nanoscience technology.

The shooting sent the UNC-Chapel Hill campus into lockdown as police hunted down the gunman.

It took about an hour and a half to lift the lockdown after the arrest because authorities were making sure they had the right suspect in custody.

The building where gunfire broke out is a stone's throw from the school's iconic Bell Tower and just doors down from the store that sells students books and other merchandise.

Qi (not pictured) reportedly worked closely with Yan's research group at UNC, which focused on nanoscience technology, as reported by WRAL News.

Tailei Qi can be seen in an image provided to WRAL sitting on the floor near a property around a mile away from the campus, wearing a dark colored shirt and glasses

During a press conference on Monday night investigators said they had not yet discovered a motive behind the shooting.

But a series of concerning social media posts have been unearthed, in which Qi complained about his UNC colleagues and slammed bullies at the school.

He often complained about his PI - or Principal Investigator - which is the common name for the head of the laboratory in a research center. It is not clear whether he was referring to Yan in the posts.

The graduate student previously studied at Wuhan University in 2015, and was studying at the Department of Applied Physical Sciences.

He also gained a master's in material science in 2021 from Louisiana State University.

Last month Qi shared a paper that he had written on optical binding on LinkedIn, which was published in his name as well as two others  including his adviser and alleged victim.

The two academics wrote several papers in the last years on the effect of light on nanoparticles. Yan's recent work focused on so-called 'optical tweezers' - a process that uses light to develop advanced nanorobots within cells.

During a press conference on Monday night investigators said they had not yet discovered a motive behind the shooting.

UNC Chancellor Kevin M. Guskiewicz said in a statement: 'This loss is devastating and the shooting damages the trust and safety that we so often take for granted in our campus community.

'We will work to rebuild that sense of trust and safety within our community and our hearts are with the family of our fellow faculty member, those who are personally connected to the victim and those traumatized by this senseless act of violence.'

Yan joined UNC in 2019 after working at Clarkson University and the University of Chicago.

In one tweet from October 31, 2022, the alleged shooter wrote: 'Both the group of people to say I am lazy and that to prove me working hard instead of telling me that are trying to consume my privacy.

'I judge their motivation is only to tell my PI then control me by taletelling.'

On August 18 last year, he wrote: 'Just have a talk with my PI and get his promise. He should have more experience to handle with these girls and tattletales.

'Then, we can just get ourselves out of these stupid topic. Let's just focus our attention on nature. I won't change anything if not necessary.'

He also complained about being tired from the hours he worked.

Classes started at UNC, the nation's first public university, a week ago. The university, with about 20,000 undergraduate students and 12,000 graduate students, canceled Tuesday classes.
A federal judge has given the green light to a lawsuit against New York City by jail detainees who allege that lax conditions in Central Booking facilities led to a rash of COVID cases.

According to the lawsuit, filthy conditions in city jails, most notably the Central Booking areas in Manhattan and Brooklyn courts, and a lack of mask protections led to an increase in coronavirus diagnoses.

The class action suit was filed in Brooklyn Federal Court in November 2021 on behalf of detainees held at the citys state courthouses during the tail end of the pandemic.

The [city] did not follow any of the established guidance on how jails and correctional institutions should mitigate the risks of transmitting COVID-19, the lawsuit stated.

A COVID-19 test is pictured.

The detainees suit complained that a lack of masks and filthy, cramped conditions in Central Booking facilities that serve the courthouses made the holding cells a petri dish for deadly viruses.

This case involved hundreds of thousands of potential plaintiffs who were in a Central Booking facility in New York City during COVID, according to Richard Cardinale, an attorney for the plaintiffs.

The case affects all prearraignment detainees in city of New Yorks Central Booking facilities from Feb. 3, 2020, to the present.

An NYPD Corrections Department vehicle is pictured in Queens on Jan. 13, 2022.

The lawsuit alleged that the detainees 14th Amendment rights were violated because the city failed to take reasonable measures to ensure that pretrial detainees are held under safe and humane conditions.

There are currently 56 individually named plaintiffs.

The citys Law Department did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Bottles of a COVID-19 vaccine are pictured.

The lawsuit was filed months after then-Mayor Bill de Blasios July 2021 order requiring the citys 300,000 city workers to either get the COVID vaccine or wear a mask indoors and take COVID tests weekly.

Not everyone complied.

In February 2022, Gov. Hochul announced the end of the statewide masking requirement, marking a turning point for New Yorks COVID response.
Stan Grant has launched a scathing take-down of the ABC, accusing the broadcaster of 'failing to tell the truth' after it emerged he was investigated by management for allegedly berating a female colleague for several minutes.

The former Q+A host posted a lengthy statement to LinkedIn in the wake of the revelations, admitting he 'should have behaved better' but also claiming he's been unfairly targeted.

'For the last 24 hours I have been the subject of a smear campaign by media,' he said.

'I have also seen my former employer the ABC fail again to defend me.'

Stan Grant has launched a scathing take-down of the ABC accusing the broadcaster of 'failing to tell the truth' after it emerged he was investigated by management for allegedly berating a female colleague for several minutes

Multiple staff members in the ABC's Ultimo head office witnessed the outburst by Grant in January, which resulted in a bullying complaint a few days later.

Grant described the exchange as an 'unfortunate disagreement with a respected colleague'.

'I was deep in conversation in the ABC foyer with a friend and colleague who was consoling me over the sudden death of my niece 24 hours earlier,' he said.

'I had also just returned from caring for my elderly ailing father. I was in an emotionally fragile state.

'A colleague approached me in what I and the witness felt was a confrontational manner. Things escalated in a way they should not and things were said that were not acceptable.

'I accept responsibility for this. I should have behaved better.'

The veteran journalist, who stepped down from his high-profile TV roles in May citing racist abuse from online trolls and a perceived failure by ABC bosses to publicly support him, said he should never have come to work that day.

Multiple staff members in the ABC's Ultimo head office witnessed the outburst by Grant in January, which resulted in a bullying complaint a few days later

Grant, however, felt 'obligated' to host Q+A that evening for the first show of 2023, before driving to be with family in the lead-up to delivering the eulogy at his niece's funeral.

'This incident was resolved and no finding or sanction against any party. Now I am being smeared,' he said.

'The ABC typically has failed to tell the truth. Instead it is hiding behind bureaucracy. The ABC crafted a statement which I rejected.

'I believe the truth is more important. My family this year has been subject to horrendous racial abuse and violent threat.

'The ABC failed to adequately defend me. This past year I have felt used by the ABC and abused by others. This is destroying my family. I left the ABC because trust is broken.'

The Indigenous presenter finished the scathing post by summarising the incident as 'an awful misunderstanding at an emotionally fraught time'.

'This is the truth. Judge me how you wish. We should all be better. We should all expect better from the media. We should all expect the truth.'

The former Q+A host (pictured with Tracey Holmes) posted a lengthy statement to LinkedIn in the wake of the revelations admitting he 'should have behaved better' but also stating he's been unfairly targeted.

READ MORE: Stan Grant shock as alleged bullying complaint against Q+A host is revealed Advertisement

His Q+A and China Tonight exit followed the ABC's coverage of the coronation of King Charles III, which featured Grant hosting a 45-minute panel discussion on the impacts of the British colonisation of Australia as guests were arriving at Westminster Abbey.

Complaints flooded into the ABC over the segment, which the independent ombudsman later said did not breach editorial standards of impartiality.

Grant claimed he was subjected to a 'relentless' torrent of online racist abuse in the days following prompting him to pen a column for ABC announcing his decision to step down.

'On social media my family and I are regularly racially mocked or abused. This is not new. Barely a week goes by when I am not racially targeted. My wife is targeted with abuse for being married to a Wiradjuri man,' he said.

Mr Grant wrote that no one at the ABC, 'whose producers invited me onto their coronation coverage as a guest', had 'uttered one word of public support' in the aftermath.

'I take time out because we have shown again that our history  our hard truth  is too big, too fragile, too precious for the media. The media sees only battle lines, not bridges. It sees only politics,' he wrote.

Director or News, Analysis and Investigations at the ABC, Justin Stevens, later said he was devastated Grant did not feel backed up by the broadcaster, which had previously lodged a complaint to Twitter over the offensive comments levelled at their star journalist.

Monash University on Tuesday announced Grant will now take up a role as the inaugural director of its Constructive Institute Asia Pacific.
Residents living on a street split in two by Sadiq Khan's ultra low emission zone say they have been forced to fork out thousands on new cars - while neighbours just feet away are eligible for the scrappage scheme.

Maiden Lane, which sits on the border between London and Kent in the south east of the capital, is on the ULEZ front line from today.

People living on the Crayford side of the road, which is in the London Borough of Bexley, will benefit from the Mayor's scrappage scheme - getting up to 7,000 for their old vehicles.

But those living on the other side, in the county of Kent, fall under Dartford Borough Council and are not eligible to claim cash towards a new compliant car.

With the expansion of ULEZ today, they will risk having to pay 12.50 a day to get to work or school inside the restriction zone.

Teaching assistant Andrea Balm, 47, lives on the Dartford side of the road. The mother-of-three said her husband Ian, 47 - a self-employed window-fitter and anti-ULEZ campaigner - has had to take out a 10,000 loan to buy a new van, as his old transit wasn't ULEZ-compliant.

Ulez sign postage on Maiden Lane where one side is in Bexley and the other is in Kent

Maiden Lane, which sits on the border between London and Kent in the south east of the capital, is on the ULEZ front line from today

Teaching assistant Andrea Balm, 47, lives on the Dartford side of the road

Ian Balm's newly purchased ULEZ compliant van - but he had to take out a 10,00 loan to afford it

Andrea said: 'My husband had to get rid of his work van and he got an absolute pittance for it because nobody wants it if it's not ULEZ compliant.

'He'd only had it about 18 months and there was nothing wrong with it.

'He paid 1,800 originally - and that was quite a good price - but he only got 800 when he sold it, so he's lost a grand.

'The new van is identical to the one he had before, just a bit newer.It cost him about 8,500 and then he had to pay an extra 200 in insurance on top of that. He spent another 300 on installing racks inside it too. So roughly 9,000 altogether.

'We couldn't afford it so we've had to take out a 10,000 loan.'

Andrea said the couple came to the conclusion that forking out for a new van was the 'lesser of two evils' - as they didn't want to fund Sadiq Khan's ULEZ scheme by paying the charge or fines.

She added: 'There's nothing we could do about it. The only choice we had was whether we spent the money on a new van or put it in the Mayor's pockets.'

The 47-year-old feels it is 'unfair' that neighbours on the other side of the road - around 20ft away - were eligible for the scrappage scheme, but Ian was not.

Andrea said the couple came to the conclusion that forking out for a new van was the 'lesser of two evils' - as they didn't want to fund Sadiq Khan's ULEZ scheme

Residents of the London borough of Bexley (in red) can claim thousands of pounds for their old car or van under the ULEZ scrappage scheme. Those on the other side of the boundary in Kent cannot claim anything  even if they live on the same street as their London neighbours

She said: 'He got nothing back on scrappage because we're on the Kent side. We got no help at all.

'But we're just as affected by it as they are. It's not like it's feasible to avoid the ULEZ zones altogether.

'Their kids get free oyster passes too, but ours don't. It's so unfair.

'It's like a postcode lottery for the sake of a few feet. It's the biggest money-grabbing scheme I've ever seen.'

The teaching assistant has also noticed that commuters with non-compliant cars are starting to use the road to park their vehicles while they walk over the border to Crayford station.

She said: 'Parking is already bad around here and it's only going to get worse.'

Pensioner Charles Whitewood, 81, who also lives on the Dartford side of Maiden Lane, was forced to sell his 2004-plate Mercedes 320 for less than half its value due to the ULEZ expansion.

The disabled great-grandfather-of-19, married to wife Norma, 75, said there were 'tears rolling down the hill' when he had to give up his beloved motor.

Charles Whitewood, 81, who also lives on the Dartford side of Maiden Lane, was forced to sell his 2004-plate Mercedes 320 for less than half its value due to the ULEZ expansion

People living on the Crayford side of the road, in the London Borough of Bexley, will benefit from the Mayor's scrappage scheme but those living on the other side, in Kent, fall under Dartford Borough Council and are not eligible to claim cash towards a new compliant car

He said: 'I had to sell my Merc and get a Ford on Motability, because I couldn't afford a new car any other way.

'I only got 2,000 for it because nobody wants a car that's not ULEZ-compliant. But it was worth about 5,000.

'I also lost all my no claims bonuses - 60 years worth - in the process. And it's just not the same - how can you compare the two cars.

'There were tears rolling down the hill when I had to get rid of that Merc.'

The grandfather-of-28, who has lived on Maiden Lane for 18 years, believes his diesel Mercedes was more fuel efficient than his new vehicle.

He said: 'I could do 329 miles on a full tank with the old car. With this one, I get round the corner and it's already run out of petrol.'

Another resident, Alan Barnett, 58, only discovered today that his Kawasaki motorcycle isn't ULEZ-compliant.

The former refuse collector - who lives with his elderly mother Ruth, 84, and is currently recovering from a heart attack - is worried the pair will end up stuck indoors as a result of the expansion.

Alan Barnett, 58, only discovered today that his Kawasaki motorcycle isn't ULEZ-compliant

He said: 'It's absolute rubbish. I didn't even realise until today that my bike wasn't compliant.

'I get out on it most days so I'm either going to only drive one way out of the road or face being stuck indoors.'

Alan also has a 2005-plate minibus which he purchased during the Covid-19 pandemic and has been renovating into a campervan. But the vehicle is not ULEZ-compliant - leaving him fearing he has wasted a lot of time and resources on it.

He said: 'I can't afford a new one and besides, it's not just a case of selling it, it's also the time and effort I put into restoring it.

'It doesn't matter to Sadiq Khan and his mates because they've got lots of money.

'But all they seem to do is keep putting more taxes on us. It's just another thing to pay for.'

The 58-year-old believes the Mayor of London should've improved transport in the suburbs before expanding the scheme.

He said: 'It's ridiculous that one half of the road falls under ULEZ and the other half doesn't.

'I can understand it in the city centre where it gets congested, but not around here. It's a residential area. We haven't got the transport links that central London has.'

Alan also has a 2005-plate minibus which he purchased during the Covid-19 pandemic and has been renovating into a campervan -but the vehicle is not ULEZ-compliant

He is also concerned that the parking situation will become worse, adding: 'Trying to find somewhere to park is going to be horrendous.'

Raj Patel, 55, has lived on the Crayford side of the road, with his wife and two adult children, for 35 years.

The former shop owner is not personally affected by ULEZ, as his two vehicles are complaint with the scheme, but vehemently disagrees with it.

He said: 'I don't believe in it at all. We already pay road tax, the Dartford toll and the congestion charge. It's just another tax to add to the list.

'They make enough money off us but they still want more. It's bleeding the public dry.

'Lots of people around here are having to sell their cars, but the vehicles are becoming worthless.

'My friend had a Range Rover that he's had to sell and replace with a smaller car. He's got two sets of twins and is now having to make two trips because they can't all fit in the new car.'

Jeremy Kite, leader of Dartford Borough Council, described the explanation as a 'deeply upsetting situation' for residents.

He visited Maiden Lane today and said: 'It's not those with significant funds who are affected, it's the likes of nurses and students and small businesses who can't afford to just change their cars on a whim.

Jeremy Kite, leader of Dartford Borough Council, described the explanation as a 'deeply upsetting situation' for residents

'There's lots of people around here on low incomes who cannot just drop everything and buy a new vehicle.

'The irony is that 90 per cent of vehicles are compliant already, and many others were heading towards purchasing cleaner and greener vehicles over the next few years anyway.

'But the money they would've saved up for a more environmentally-friendly car, they're now having to spend on the ULEZ charge.'

The 60-year-old said he does not object to ULEZ, but believes the expansion was ill thought out.

He added: 'I'm not against ULEZ as a whole. In major cities where public transport is an option, it works really well. But people around here have no choice - they have to have cars.

'My view is they were our roads last week, which tax-payers have paid for.

'But now Sadiq Khan is effectively saying that people who did not vote for him and cannot get rid of him are having to pay his tax. It's an injustice.'
Nikki Haley is hitting back at fellow Indian-American presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy for using her birth name, which she does not go by, to counterattack her for criticism of his foreign policy platform.

The former U.N. Ambassador said she won't engage with the 'childish name-calling' from her GOP rival and insisted he should 'know better' than to use her Indian name as an attack point.

Haley's birth name is Nimarata Randhawa, but her legal middle name is Nikki and that is what she goes by. Her last name changed when she married her husband of 27 years, Michael Haley.

In a page on Ramaswamy's campaign website called TRUTH. Over Myth, the campaign seeks to debunk claims made about the candidate. One section titled Vivek Doesn't Support Israel with a clown emoji takes aim at Haley.

'WRONG. Keep lying, Nimarata Randhawa,' the website reads, using Haley's birth name.

Vivdek Ramaswamy (left) used fellow Indian-American GOP contender Nikki Haley's birth name Nimarata Randhawa when hitting back at her attacks against his Israel policies

Ramaswsamy's website includes a section debunking claims made about him. One was on Haley's claims about his policy toward Israel, which he shot back at by employing her first name Nimarata, which she does not go by, and her maiden name Randhawa

'The desperation is showing. By the end of Vivek's first term, the US-Israel relationship will be deeper and stronger than ever because it won't be a client relationship, it will be a true friendship.'

Originally, her name was misspelled as 'Namrata,' but it was later fixed to reflect the correct spelling.

'I'm not going to get into the childish name-calling or whatever, making fun of my name that he's doing,' Haley told Fox News Digital on Monday. 'I mean, he of all people should know better than that. But I've given up on him knowing better than anything at this point.'

'I think we saw the childish, demeaning side of him onstage,' she added in reference to Ramaswamy's multiple back-and-forths at the first Republican debate last week. 'I think he's carrying that out whether it's on the website or otherwise, but I have no use for it.'

At the debate, Haley attacked Ramaswamy for wanting to support foreign adversaries and abandon allies, specifically referencing his desire to pull aid from Ukraine and Israel.

She slammed Ramaswamy for having no experience in dealing with foreign policy, as candidates shared sentiments that this is one of current President Joe Biden's biggest failures so far.

'You have no foreign policy and it shows!' Haley shouted at Ramaswamy when he indicated he would defund the Ukraine war effort. 'You don't do that to friends. You are choosing a murderer over a pro-American country.'

Appearing on Russell Brand's Rumble channel, Ramaswamy said as president he would end funding to Israel in 2028, which is the year a $38 billion U.S. package expires.

'Come 2028, that additional aid won't be necessary in order to still have the kind of stability that we'd actually have in the Middle East by having Israel more integrated in with its partners,' he said.

Haley's legal middle name is Nikki and she married Michael Haley in 1996. She goes by Nikki Haley. The two Indian-American candidates got into a few heated back-and-forths at the first Republican debate in Milwaukee, Wisconsin on Wednesday

But when it came to criticism that he doesn't support U.S. ally Israel, Ramaswamy's campaign said it simply isn't true after taking aim at Haley's attacks in particular.

'Good friends also learn from each other, and Vivek has said we have much to learn from Israel,' the campaign clarified on his website. 'He's traveled there countless times with one of his most important business partners  a founding investor at Roivant  who is based there.'

'Vivek wants the U.S. to learn from Israel's border policies, crime enforcement policies, national identity, and missile defense capabilities  and will lead the U.S. accordingly,' the website excerpt adds.

Ramaswamy also said that he wouldn't end aid to Israel until the ally said it no longer needed U.S. assistance.

'That's what true friends do: they're honest with each other. We expect that of our friends in Israel, And when Israel gets to that point, we should all rightly celebrate it as a mark of achievement and pride for both the U.S. and Israel.'
Lopez was super of the apartment block where the family lived and were found dead on Monday

Edison Lopez, 41, is believed to have killed his wife, Aleksandra 'Ola' Witek, 40, and their sons, Calvin, one, and Lucian, three, before turning a knife on himself

The family of a mom and her two children killed in a murder-suicide in Manhattan have paid tribute to the 'incredibly loving' school teacher and said they are 'heartbroken and incensed' by the tragedy.

Edison Lopez, 41, is believed to have stabbed dead his wife Aleksandra 'Ola' Witek, 40, and their two sons, Calvin, one, and Lucian, three, before turning a knife on himself in the fourth-floor apartment where he was the live-in super.

Their bodies were found by authorities who did a welfare check on Monday after Ola stopped responding to messages from her family.

Her distraught relatives said in a statement on Tuesday afternoon that Ola was an 'incredibly loving and devoted stay-at-home mom'. The family has started a fundraiser to help her brother, Lukas, and mother, Grace, arrange a funeral and handle other costs following the tragedy.

They released the tribute along with heartbreaking pictures of Ola and her two sons together. In one, she is clutching Lucian as they attend a dress-up event in a park. Another shows her smiling lovingly while holding Calvin in her arms.

The heartbroken family of Aleksandra 'Ola' Witek, 40, and her two sons, Calvin, one, and Lucian, three, has paid tribute to the mother. Pictured: Ola with Lucian

Edison Lopez, 41, is believed to have stabbed dead his wife, Aleksandra 'Ola' Witek, 40, and their two sons, Calvin, one, and Lucian (pictured), three, before turning a knife on himself

The family has started a fundraiser to help her brother, Lukas, and mother, Grace, arrange a funeral and handle other costs following the tragedy. Pictured: Ola with baby Calvin

The family said: 'Being a NYC school teacher, she instilled her knowledge and teachings on the growth of her boys who had blossoming imaginations and whose curiosity and sweetness to family and friends alike captured everyone's hearts.

'A proud Polish mom, Ola shared her culture and language and made the lives of her boys bright and full. Her boys loved playing with their toys, story time with mom, and were two delightful babies to all that loved them.

'She was an adored friend, beloved sister to her brother Lukas, and cherished daughter of Grace.'

Ola and her children were looking forward to celebrating the wedding of her brother, Lukas, to his fiance, Emma, in two weeks time. The wedding has been postponed as the family grieves the tragedy.

'As the family and close friends of the remaining Witek family members: Lukas, fiance Emma Hutchison, and mother Grace (as well as Ola's late father, Teddy Witek), we are heartbroken and incensed,' they added.

'Lukas loved his sister deeply. He was overjoyed in his role as uncle (playfully nicknamed 'wujo') to her two precious boys. He beamed any time friends asked how his nephews were and his love for them was palpable in conversation.

'Grace was a proud grandma, who enjoyed showering the young family with love. Her home is adorned with memories and photos of the sweet boys with their arms wrapped around her.

'Lukas and Grace are now the only two remaining members of their immediate family, who are tasked with the unthinkable. In addition to funeral, burial, and legal costs, Lukas and Grace will be faced with additional, miscellaneous costs associated with this tragic incident.

'Our efforts are to collectively alleviate them from this financial burden.'

Pictures of Ola and her children were release by relatives who paid tribute to the 'incredibly loving' school teacher and said they are 'heartbroken and incensed' by the tragedy

Aleksandra Witek, 40, and her two sons, Calvin, one, and Lucian, three, (pictured) were stabbed to death in an apparent murder-suicide

Lopez, 41, (left) is believed to have stabbed his family to death before turning the knife on himself

Flowers were left outside of the Upper West Side apartment after the grisly deaths

The statement was released after neighbors who know Lopez said he had recently told friends of his joy at the birth of his second son, one-year-old Calvin.

Ola had shared pictures on Facebook in January of her clutching the newborn and his young brother.

Alfonso Barrera, a family friend who said Lopez was the best man at his son's wedding about 11 years ago, visited the apartment on Tuesday morning to pay tribute.

The 84-year-old said: 'My son called me and said, 'Did you hear what happened?' My son could not sleep last night, he was crying and crying.

'Edison was a nice fellow, a part of my family. Everybody thought he was brothers with my son. And his wife was a nice girl, beautiful, very nice.'

Shocked neighbors said Lopez was known in the area as a nice guy and a family man who was often seen taking his kids to Central Park, just a few blocks away.

He is said to have been agitated in recent days and told friends that managers of his building 'want me out'. Friends told DailyMail.com that he had been concerned about his job and feared that another opportunity he was pursuing had fallen through.

One, who saw Lopez last week, said he seemed upset and frantic as he spoke about his concerns about his job.

Police sources told the New York Post that one of the young boys' bodies was so badly brutalized that officers thought he was a girl.

Jimmy Moloon, a USPS mailman who knew the family through his rounds in the area, said Lopez had spoken of his joy just a year ago after the one-year-old victim was born.

Moloon said Lopez and Aleksandra were high school sweethearts who shared a 'beautiful family' together.

'He was a very polite individual, very nice guy,' said Moloon.

Friends told DailyMail.com that he was concerned about his job and feared that another opportunity he was pursuing had fallen through

Neighbors of their Upper West Side apartment, where Lopez was super at the block, said Lopez was known in the area as a nice guy and a family man who was often seen taking his kids to Central Park, which is just a few blocks away

A small set of candles and floral tributes was laid at the scene on Tuesday morning by neighbors outside of the apartment

Police sources told the New York Post that one of the young boys' bodies was so badly brutalized that officers thought he was a girl

It is understood that the family had no emergency call history indicating any domestic issues prior to the grisly incident

'He didn't seem like he had a problem. I'm shocked, especially since when he had the last kid, he was very, very, very happy.

'I said, 'I'm very happy for you that you have a new child.' I'm trying to think in my mind what was the reason, his motivation for such a thing.

'I used to see his wife, they used to come out together. I don't know if they would go to the park or whatever. He was a family guy, I used to chat with him, talk with him. His father was the super in that building.

'They were a beautiful family. They went to school together, grew up together.'

A small set of candles and floral tributes was laid at the scene on Tuesday morning by neighbors outside of the apartment.

It is understood that the family had no emergency call history indicating any domestic issues prior to the grisly incident.

A friend of Ola visited the block on Tuesday to pay tribute to the 'doting mother'.

The woman, who asked not to be named, said: 'She was a very doting mother. She took her kids to the park every day and took them to classes in the neighborhood.

'She was dedicated to her two boys. They just celebrated their son's birthday, the one-year-old, a few weeks ago. They were good friends with other kids in the building.

'They were always very happy seeming and everybody thought they were a great family, he had a job lined up and we were told they were going to be leaving.'

A friend of Aleksandra Witek visited the block on Tuesday to pay tribute to the 'doting mother' to two sons

Police and emergency services were called to the scene just before 3pm Monday to perform a wellness check since the woman's father said he hadn't heard from them

They found the family of four dead in Manhattan's swanky Upper West Side, with police sources saying knives were found next to the bodies of the children

Jeff Kimmel, a neighbor who lives the same block as the family, added: 'I've been in this building 22 years and he has been in the building the majority of his life.

'He was the super's son, and then the super himself. He's been in my apartment, fixing things and helping out and I have always liked him. We would see him with the kids - I saw him evolve as an adult and as a man.'

Police and emergency services were called to the scene just before 3pm Monday to perform a wellness check since the woman's father said he hadn't heard from them.

They found the family of four dead, with police sources saying knives were found next to the bodies of the children.

The adult victims had their throats slit - and the children suffered stab wounds.

The baby and toddler were found in the same bedroom, while the mother was discovered in the hallway, and the father found in a second bedroom, reports WACB.

First responders had to force the door of the apartment open - indicating that the door was locked from the inside.

All four victims were pronounced dead at the scene.
A penguin has been found decapitated in its enclosure with its head left next to its body, prompting police to hunt for its killer.

Zookeepers made the horrible find this morning as they entered the enclosure at the Rostock Zoo in northern Germany to clean it, tabloid newspaper Bild reports.

A decapitated humboldt penguin was found lying on the ground with its severed head beside it as well as a bloody stone.

Police say it is not clear whether the penguin was killed in the location where its body was found, or whether it had been moved.

Since the head was sliced off clean, an attack by another animal seems unlikely, zookeepers have said.

Zookeepers made the horrible find this morning as they entered the enclosure at the Rostock Zoo in northern Germany to clean it, tabloid newspaper Bild reports. A decapitated humboldt penguin (like the ones pictured) was found lying on the ground with its severed head beside it as well as a bloody stone

Police spokeswoman Dorte Lemke confirmed the investigation and told Bild: 'Due to the way the humboldt penguin was found it cannot currently be ruled out that the animal died as a result of external influence.

'A forensics team of Rostock police is currently securing evidence at the discovery location in the Zoo.'

The police is also investigating a potential case of trespassing.

Unfortunately, there is no known motive for the possible murder of the penguin yet.

Its body has been taken to the State Office for Agriculture for further examination, but the results are pending.

The Rostock Zoo hosts more than 6500 animals of more than 500 species and is the biggest animal park in the state of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern

As a humboldt penguin, the marine bird is on the International Union for Conservation of Nature's list of endangered species.

The Rostock Zoo hosts more than 6500 animals of more than 500 species and is the biggest animal park in the state of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern.

It has been awarded with the 'Best European Zoo Award' several times.

There have been no attacks or mistreatment by third parties registered at the zoo in recent years.
The San Francisco police union has slammed an Arab bakery for refusing to serve police officers when they are armed and in uniform.

The officer went to Reem's California Misson, an Arab bakery and restaurant located on 25th and Mission, on Thursday, and was refused service. San Francisco Police Officer (SPOA) President Lieutenant Tracy McCray accused the Arab establishment of showing 'anti-police bigotry.'

But, a spokesperson with Reem's claims that their policy- that has been in effect since the restaurant opened its doors in 2017 - is not to serve anyone who is armed, including on-duty police officers. Their restaurant also prohibits firearms, as per Mission Local.

McCray learned of their policy in an email and told Fox News Digital: 'Let's just put all kidding aside  that's directed at police officers.'

She quipped: 'Because who do you see visible most of the time? So, just cut out the bulls--, just say what you mean, and we can move on.'

San Francisco Police Officer (SPOA) President Lieutenant Tracy McCray accused the Arab establishment of showing 'anti-police bigotry,' in a series of tweets and to 'own their discriminatory policy,' she said, in part

Reem's California Mission is an Arab bakery and restaurant that has been in business since 2017. Their policy includes 'no armed and uniformed' and 'no gun' policy has been in effect since they opened their doors

The SPOA designed a 'no cops allowed' sign that they feel is in line with the restaurant's police

The San Francisco Police Officer Association posted this 'No Cops Allowed' tweet on Thursday

McCray asked the restaurant if they would put up a sign about the policy, so officers would know not to frequent the business.

The union president said she did not receive a response back, Fox News Digital reported.

McKray said that the officer had just gotten off of a 16-hour work shift and was doing overtime at a nearby car show when he went to the Arab establishment.

The same day that the officer was turned away, the SPOA posted a series of tweets informing the public of what had occurred.

'We are not asking Reem's or any business with a bigoted policy to serve our officers. We're asking them to own their discriminatory policy & and put up a sign so we know not to spend money in your establishmenton or off duty. We took the liberty of designing one for them.'

The second tweet by the SPOA stated: 'NO COPS ALLOWED. That's the confirmed policy of the bakery chain Reem's. One of our officers was denied service last weekend because he was in uniform.

'Reem's confirms that they will not serve anyone armed and in uniform. Presumably, this includes members of the US Military.'

A spokesperson with Reem's responded stating that the officers are welcome to come when they are not on duty.

Reem's California Mission posted a response to the incident on their Instagram

The restaurant took to Instagram expressing their gratitude to their supporters

'The policy is for armed officers, and we let police officers know that we welcome them back to our establishment when they're off duty and unarmed,' they tweeted.

In a follow-up statement on August 25, Reem's posted a statement on their Instagram regarding their involvement with the communty.

'Reem's has a deep commitment to uplifting social and racial justice in our communities,' the statement read.

'This includes fostering an environment of safety for our staff and customers. In a time of increased gun violence  particularly impacting people of color, youth, and queer people  we believe that maintaining a strict policy of prohibiting guns in our restaurant keeps us safer.'

The post continued: 'Many members of our community have been impacted by gun violence, whether that be experience on the streets of San Francisco having come from war or occupation, or having increased fears due to a growing climate of political extremism. All too often, Black and brown people, and poor people are the victims of this violence," it continued.

McCray told the news outlet that the statement is 'disingenuous' after she only received a two-sentence email confirming what SPOA deemed a 'no cops allowed' policy.

'How do you enforce that?' McCray asked of the policy. 'Is this the honor system? You come in, and does everyone ask you, 'Are you armed?'

Reem's California Mission is located in the Mission District in San Francisco

The post garnered thousands of views with many voicing mixed reaction on the incident that took place.

'It's their right to refuse service to anyone,' someone wrote. 'We need to respect their rights!!!.'

'That's discrimination, Pal,' another person chimed in.

Someone asked: 'What happens when they need the police officers help because a real BAD GUY with a gun shows up to rob them? who they gonna call, (GHOST BUSTERS) BECAUSE THEY JUST BLACKBALLED law enforcement.'

The restaurant posted that they are closed for vacation until September 5 for a 'scheduled break for the team,' but a Reem's representative said they are open for catering.

Reem's posted to their Instagram their gratitude to its supporters.

'Thank you for all your support community. It is times like these that make us hopeful that our small business can survive and stay grounded in our values,' the post reads.

'We can't wait to reopen our doors very soon and provide the sanctuary space you all deserve. In the meantime, please check out our catering page online and support us during our temporary closure.'

The San Francisco Police Department told the news outlet on Friday in an email.

'While businesses have the right, within the constraints of the law, to decide who they will and will not serve, the San Francisco Police Department remains steadfast in its commitment to meeting the public safety needs of ALL residents, businesses and visitors to our city no matter who they are,' The San Francisco Standard reported.
A Russian opposition politician has claimed Ramzan Kadyrov, the Head of the Chechen Republic and a long-time Putin ally, could face the same fate as Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin should his criticism of Russia's Defence Ministry continue.

Former Russian MP Dmitry Gudkov, 43, who is staunchly against the war in Ukraine, told anti-Kremlin outlet Nexta this week he suspects Kadyrov's position as 'Putin's bloodhound' may be threatened.

Drawing comparisons between Prigozhin and Kadyrov, Gudkov pointed out that the Chechen leader regularly praised the mercenary chief's work in Russia and accused the Russian military proper of incompetence on several occasions.

Kadyrov also has his own private army and has sent several Chechen units to fight in Ukraine - echoing Prigozhin's deployment of Wagner mercenary fighters - some of whom have reportedly clashed with regular Russian army units.

Ramzan Kadyrov pictured with Vladimir Putin at the Kremlin in June

Ramzan Kadyrov, Head of the Chechen Republic

Russian opposition politician Dmitry Gudkov

'There will be conflict with Kadyrov, I'm sure. Because Kadyrov is one of the biggest opponents of Russian statehood.' Gudkov told Nexta.

'Kadyrov has his own army that is well prepared. And Kadyrov has great influence outside of the security apparatus. The inner tension is getting bigger and bigger.'

Putin has so far managed to integrate the Chechens into the Russian power structure, with Kadyrov as their top representative.

But, as Gudkov argues: 'Putin has stopped playing the referee between different Kremlin factions. More precisely, he can no longer cope with this role. The conflicts are penetrating the outside world.'

Gudkov's comments come as The Moscow Times reported Putin has 'ordered the secret services to prepare for the threat of a new military insurgency', per sources inside the Kremlin.

There is concern that Wagner hardliners blame Putin directly for Prigozhin's death and are planning to seek retribution.

There were signs of a mass security operation being put in place at Serafimovsky cemetery in St Petersburg where low-key funerals of at least some Wagner figures were reportedly starting today.

'Tanks approaching less than 125 miles from Moscow made an indelible impression on Vladimir Putin, who ruled for more than two decades,' said The Moscow Times.

'Prigozhin not only defied the army command, but also disobeyed a personal order from the president, and therefore was considered a threat to the regime,' four sources told the outlet.

Russian President Vladimir Putin attends a meeting with Omsk Region Acting Governor Vitaly Khotsenko at the Kremlin in Moscow, Russia August 28, 2023

Yevgeny Prigozhin plane crashes in Tver region, Russia, on 23 August 2023

Members of the Wagner Group military company guard an area as other load their tank onto a truck on a street in Rostov-on-Don, Russia, Saturday, June 24, 2023

A flag bearing the logo of private mercenary group Wagner flutters above a portrait of late head of Wagner paramilitary group, Yevgeny Prigozhin at a makeshift memorial in Moscow, on August 27, 2023

Putin wants to see Wagner mercenary army disbanded even though it was his invention, deploying his once loyal henchman Prigozhin as its head.

In future all members of private military companies like Wagner must declare allegiance to the Russian state - and Putin.

'Many members of Wagner believe that the authorities may be behind [Prigozhin's death],' said Oleg Ignatov, an analyst at the International Crisis Group.

'And the authorities cannot ignore such risks.'

This comes as the Kremlin is preparing to rig next year's Russian presidential election to ban youthful rival candidates who would make the dictator, 70, appear like a 'grandfather'.

Another extraordinary report from independent media outlet Meduza indicates Putin is - illegally - banning any young candidates from next March's Russian presidential election when the dictator will be 71, and seek a six year term taking him to the age of 77.

One prominent rival candidate, imprisoned Alexei Navalny, 47, was this month jailed for an additional 19 years - preventing him from posing any political threat to Putin.

Only stooge candidates will be allowed after 'vetting' by Putin officials.

People stand next to an informal street memorial for Wagner Group's military group members killed in a plane crash

A woman lays a candle at a makeshift memorial for late head of Wagner paramilitary group, Yevgeny Prigozhin, in Moscow

Another younger candidate Vladislav Davankov, 39, vice-speaker of the Russian parliament, faces being banned because he is seen as too youthful.

'An energetic young candidate might make the voters think about the president's age,' said the report.

A source said: 'This wouldn't be a flattering contrast.'

Two Kremlin insiders told Meduza that 'politicians younger than 50 were deliberately excluded from nomination, since a younger candidate on the ballot might make the voters pause and wonder if the 70-year-old Putin is still the same person ''who came to power with a firm hand''.'

Putin's main rival is expected to be Gennady Zyuganov, 78, Communist Party leader.

He will pose no threat to Putin because 'he won't attract any new voters beyond his existing ossified electorate'.

A younger Communist candidate has been banned from standing.

Another rival is expected to be Leonid Slutsky, 55, leader of the ultranationalist Liberal-Democratic Party of Russia, accused by female journalists of being a sexual predator.

He is seen as a 'serious man in a suit' yet his 'personal ranking is low' and he will pose no threat to Putin.

In the 2018 presidential election, glamorous TV star Ksenia Sobchak, 41, also known as Putin's 'goddaughter', stood against him.

It is unclear if she will do so again.

She has known Putin since she was a child, and he attended her baptism, but she has liberal credentials.

Yet she poses no serious threat to him, scoring less than two per cent of the vote.

Despite rumours of ill-health, it appears Putin has no intention to quit and intends to remain in the Kremlin for life.
A stalker who left a beauty influencer feeling 'terrified for her life' and permanently scarring another victim after throwing a brick through her window, was jailed for four and a half years today.

Danielle Moore, 34, turned up at Canadian born Priyanka Gnanasekaran's workplace with two knives and at snarled racist abuse at her in a series of threatening phone calls between July and December last year.

Prosecutor Bartholemew O'Toole said Moore began privately messaging Ms Gnanasekaran's public page after first following her several years ago, Southwark Crown Court heard.

With the messages becoming 'inappropriate and somewhat bizzare', Ms Gnanasekaram felt uncomfortable and decided to block Moore.

But, Moore then created multiple new accounts and started messaging her again after she was blocked, jurors heard. In one message Moore wrote: 'I'll be talking to Allah about what you've done. You've done wrong.'

Stalker Danielle Moore (pictured) has been jailed four and a half years for making a beauty influencer terrified for her life and permanently scarring another victim

Beauty influencer Priyanka Gnanasekaran was left feeling 'terrified for her life' due to a stalker who has been jailed for four and a half years

Ms Gnanasekaram replied saying she 'didn't know what she was referring to' and asked Moore to stop.

The victim, who moved to the UK from Canada last year, advised Moore that she would call the police if she carried on.

READ MORE: A stalker hounded me for years with sexually explicit calls - I used a secret phone trick to expose him and discovered it was my uncle Advertisement

Another of Moore's victim's Fatema Begum said she had been left feeling 'petrified' after Moore assaulted her with a brick, leaving her with a scar on her face.

During the six-month period Moore found out where Ms Gnanasekaran worked in central London and turned up twice last July, looking for her.

Ms Gnanasekaran immediately recognised Moore and asked security staff to not let her in.

In an audio recording played in court, Moore calmly asks the receptionist to speak to Ms Gnanasekaram.

Before becoming irate and aggressive and calling Ms Gnanasekaram a 'f****** p*** c***'.

Moore then says: 'P*** I'm coming, I'm f****** coming'.

On the same day Moore was also spotted on CCTV, armed with two knives, trying to find a way to enter the building via the basement - police were called to the scene and Moore was arrested.

Moore continued to try and contact Ms Gnanasekaram from HMP Bronzefield, after telling staff she was trying to call her lawyer.

She also called Ms Gnanasekaram four times on August 4, 2022, in addition to calling her at work under the alias 'Sandra Diente' in December last year.

Judge Gregory Perrins sentenced Moore to a total of four and a half years in prison, with an extended licence period of two and a half years. She was also handed two restraining orders prohibiting her from contacting Ms Begum and Ms Gnanasekaram for 10 years. Pictured: Southwark Crown Court

Ms Gnanasekaram said in an impact statement read to the court she was left 'terrified for her life thinking how much rage must have built up inside Moore since her arrest'.

She also detailed the 'immense sense of paranoia' she felt during the stalking ordeal.

Moore, of Bermondsey, denied but was convicted of stalking.

In a seperate incident, Moore had also hurled two bricks at a window belonging to Fatema Begum in Felixstowe Road, Ipswich, on May 12, 2021, the court heard.

The second object hit Ms Begum in the face causing a 2cm cut just above her left eyebrow, leaving her permanently scarred.

Moore admitted unlawful wounding and damaging property.

Judge Gregory Perrins sentenced Moore to a total of four and a half years in prison, with an extended licence period of two and a half years. She was also handed two restraining orders prohibiting her from contacting Ms Begum and Ms Gnanasekaram for 10 years.

In her victim impact statement, Moore's second victim, Ms Begum said she was left feeling petrified after she was assaulted with a brick.

She said: 'In the immediate days after this assault I was scared and petrified. As a result, I hardly ever left the house and relied on my friends and family to support me.

'I now knew Danielle knew where I lived, and I feared she would return to cause more damage or assault me further.

'I was left with a scar just above my left eyebrow in a really visible place. The only way I can repair the scar is with a skin graft and I cannot get it through the NHS.'

Ms Begum has been left permanently scarred and 'considerably distressed' as a result of the attack.
One man has been taken to hospital and nine others treated outside a Santander bank in Nuneaton after reports of a 'funny smell' caused by the 'presence of hazardous gas.'

Several members of the staff at the bank reported feeling unwell in the lead up to the incident which Santander has told MailOnline was a 'potential safety issue.'

The area immediately surrounding the bank was also cordoned off while authorities carried out investigations into the smell with firefighter giving the building a thorough ventilation.

West Midlands Ambulance service said all nine other patients were assessed and discharged at the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: 'Crews arrived to find ten patients complaining of feeling unwell.

The area immediately surrounding the bank has also been cordoned off while authorities carry out investigations

Santander has said there is as of yet no decision on when the branch will reopen.

'One of them, a man, was assessed and treated at the scene before being taken to George Eliot Hospital in a stable condition.

'The remaining nine patients, six women and three men, were assessed and discharged at the scene.'

Warwickshire Fire and Rescue Service have since described the situation as a 'minor hazmat' incident while West Midlands Ambulance service have said they are

A spokesman for Warwickshire Fire service said: 'We were alerted at 13:54 on Tuesday 29 August to reports of a hazardous substance in the Nuneaton Branch of Santander on Newdegate Street in the Town.

'Two crews attended the scene from Nuneaton and, on arrival, found a12m x 7m building consisting of 3 floors, with the presence of hazardous gas and an unpleasant smell throughout.

'Crews stayed at the scene for just over two hours to ventilate the property. Warwickshire Police put in place a precautionary safety cordon around the location and Warwickshire Ambulance Service attended to treat four people who suffered ill-effects from inhaling the gas.'

A Santander spokesperson said: 'During routine works at our Nuneaton branch earlier today a potential safety issue was detected and as a precaution the branch was closed.

'We are sorry for any inconvenience this causes our customers.

'The local post office in Nuneaton is just 100 yards from the Santander branch where customers can do everyday banking activities including cash deposits, while the nearest Santander branch is in Coventry.'

The bank has said there is as of yet no decision on when the branch will reopen.

MailOnline has approached Warwickshire Fire Service for more information.
More than 100 business leaders in New York City have penned an open letter calling on President Joe Biden to 'take immediate action to better control the border' and speed up the asylum and work authorization process for migrants.

The letter published on Monday was addressed to 'President Biden and Congressional Leaders' and backed New York Governor Kathy Hochul's recent plea for more federal resources to respond to the migrant influx.

The letter comes as New York City has been overrun with 100,000 migrants, filling shelters and leaving many to sleep on the sidewalks throughout Manhattan.

'The New York business community is deeply concerned about the humanitarian crisis that has resulted from the continued flow of asylum-seekers into our country,' the letter stated.

'The situation is overwhelming the resources not only of the border region but of city and state governments across the nation,' it added, noting that New York City alone has received more than 100,000 migrants whose ultimate asylum and work status remains unclear.

A White House official responded in a statement to DailyMail.com, saying the Biden administration 'has led the largest expansion of lawful pathways to immigration in decades,' and is 'committed to building a humane, safe, and orderly immigration system'.

Scroll down for the full letter

Migrants arrive at the Roosevelt Hotel in NYC to be processed earlier this month. More than 100 business leaders in New York City have penned an open letter calling for federal action

The letter published on Monday was addressed to 'President Biden and Congressional Leaders' and backed New York Governor Kathy Hochul's recent plea for more resources

Signatories of the recent open letter included Pfizer's Albert Bourla, JPMorgan Chase CEO Jaime Dimon, Jeff Gennette of Macy's and Goldman Sachs boss David Solomon.

The letter backed Hochul's recent plea for Biden to take urgent action to help her state absorb a surge of international migrants who have strained New York's resources and filled homeless shelters.

'In addition, there is a compelling need for expedited processing of asylum applications and work permits for those who meet federal eligibility standards,' the letter added.

'Immigration policies and control of our country's border are clearly a federal responsibility; state and local governments have no standing in this matter,' the letter noted.

The White House official told DailyMail.com: 'Those who arrive through those lawful pathways are immediately eligible to request an employment authorization document.'

The official noted the current process for asylum applications and employment authorization is set by law, which can only be changed by Congress, and noted: 'The law establishes a 180-day waiting period to obtain a work authorization.'

A Department of Homeland Security spokesperson told DailyMail.com that DHS Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas had recently tasked 'an expert team' with assessing New York City's migrant operations.

'The team was impressed with the exceptional efforts by New York officials under the ongoing strain of accepting a large number of migrants and has provided recommendations for improvements, including data collection, case management, and increased communication with migrants on work authorizations,' the spokesperson said.

A federal official said the Biden administration had provided New York access to an FAA hangar at John F. Kennedy International Airport, which is being used to shelter 800 single males.

Eleven other federal sites across New York state are being reviewed as potential locations to shelter migrants, the person said.

The migrant humanitarian crisis in New York, long seen as friendly to immigrants, is increasingly driving a wedge between local elected Democrats and the Biden administration.

In a rare public address last week, Hochul said she sent the president a letter asking him to expedite work permits for migrants and provide financial resources to help care for the estimated 100,000 asylum seekers who have come to the state in the last year, mostly to New York City.

'The reality is that we've managed thus far without substantive support from Washington, and despite the fact that this is a national, and indeed an inherently federal issue,' Hochul said in a speech delivered in Albany. 'But New York has shouldered this burden for far too long.'

The public plea came after months of private requests to the White House.

NYC business leaders including (left to right) JPMorgan Chase CEO Jaime Dimon, Macy's CEO Jeff Gennette, Goldman Sachs CEO David Solomon signed the letter on Monday

On Monday, demonstrators protested against the opening of a shelter center for recently arrived migrants to New York in the city's Staten Island borough

In a rare public address last week, Hochul said she had sent the president a letter asking him to expedite work permits for migrants and provide financial resources to address the crisis

New York City has seen more than 100,000 migrants arrive from the Southern border, filling shelters and causing some to sleep

Hotels, such as the Redbury (pictured), have been converted to house the influx of migrants in New York City

The central request of the governor's letter was for the president to speed up the months-long bureaucratic process under which migrants can obtain work permits, and earn enough money to get off of public assistance.

'Let them work,' Hochul said, in remarks directed at the White House.

New York City Mayor Eric Adams, also a Democrat, has repeatedly made an identical demand.

New York has always prided itself on its ability to absorb waves of immigrants, but it has struggled to handle the thousands who have come over the past year, many on buses paid for by the state of Texas to rid itself of people entering the US across the southern border.

New York Democrats initially blamed Republican governors of southern states - such as Texas' Greg Abbott and Florida's Ron DeSantis - for the crisis, but have increasingly sought to characterize it is a national problem that should be solved by the federal government.

The situation has also provided Republicans in the state with a new political front from which to attack Democrats after an election year where the GOP made gains by criticizing liberals as slow to respond to concerns over crime.

'Kathy Hochuls solution after twiddling her thumbs after so many months is to write a strongly worded letter to Joe Biden? Come on, its not serious,' said David Laska, New York Republican Party spokesperson.

The situation has also created tension between Democrats within the state.

As New York City's homeless shelter system became overwhelmed, and the cost of housing migrants in hotels and temporary shelters mounted, Adams began organizing bus trips of his own to take migrants to other parts of the state, to the frustration of officials in those communities.

Lawyers for Hochul and Adams have sparred in court over how best to house and expend resources to care for the migrants.

New York City Mayor Eric Adams, also a Democrat, began organizing bus trips of his own to take migrants to other parts of the state, to the frustration of officials in those communities

An emergency shelter being built on Randall's Island to help house the massive influx of migrants into New York City

Four-fifths of New Yorkers say the recent influx of migrants is a 'serious problem' for the state, according to a recent poll

The state has earmarked up to $1.5 billion for its migrant response. Hochul asked Biden for financial assistance to help cover those costs and a projected $4.5 billion needed next year.

In addition, the governor requested that the city and state be allowed to use federally-owned properties to house migrants.

New York City shelters have been at near capacity and officials have scrambled to set up temporary housing in hotels, recreational centers, school gyms and a hospital parking lot. The city is legally obligated to find shelter for anyone needing it.

Republicans are already seeing the response to this wave of migrants as an opportunity for campaigning in the 2024 election.

'New Yorkers won't forget what happened on Kathy Hochul's watch,' Laska said.

'They won't forget that communities from all over the state have been strained beyond their ability to handle this influx of migrants and the real solution is to close the border.'

The city's migrant situation has also led to clashes, such as on Sunday when protestors and counter-protestors battled outside Adams' Gracie Mansion.

About half of the 100 people gathered were espousing messages demanding the shelters stop and the migrants be sent away, while others were counter-protesters who also denounced what they called the 'white supremacist NYPD.'
The man accused of beating his girlfriends 2-year-old son to death in her Brooklyn home regularly cooked meals in the apartment, did chores and recently joined the family on a trip to Splish Splash Water Park in Long Island, according to the boys grandmother.

Young victim Nazier Paris even called the suspect Daddy.

But none of that familiarity and trust stopped Latrell Lewis from a horrendous assault that included banging the toddler against a wall, police said Tuesday.

Latrell Lewis, pictured, has been arrested for the murder of his girlfriends 2-year-old boy, Nazier Paris.

Cops said Lewis, 23, is facing murder charges for the death of the boy, who was rushed to Brookdale Medical Center on Sunday morning just before noon with extensive injuries, including bruises to the stomach. The child died at the hospital, officials said.

Lewis might have been angry because the child woke him up, according to cops.

During the interrogation, he admits to throwing the child up against the wall after the child woke him up while he was sleeping, a source said.

Lewis told investigators that he pushed the toddler off the bed and the boy hit his head on a vent, according to his criminal complaint.

The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner, however, found extensive injuries to Nazier including blunt force trauma to the head and torso of the child. The boy had six lacerations of the liver, hemorrhaging from the liver, colon, pancreas and kidney, hemorrhaging from the brain caused by a skull fracture and multiple bruises covering the torso, neck and face.

Lewis was held in custody after a Wednesday night appearance at Brooklyn Criminal Court.

Wendy Thomas, the childs grandmother, said the loss is too hard to bear.

I listen to my daughter cry every day, saying she failed her son as a mom, said Thomas, whose daughter Chamiqua Thomas was in a relationship with the suspect.

Theres nothing he could say. He cant take back a life. What would allow you to get up in such a rage to do something like that?

Doorbell video viewed by the Daily News shows the boy being handed off to paramedics outside the home.

Lewis and Chamiqua had been in a relationship for more than a year, Thomas said. Although he was not Naziers father, he was a frequent guest and acted as a caretaker while Chamiqua went to work.

The family said they had no clue Nazier was being abused, according to Thomas. She said Lewis often watched Nazier in the boys room away from everyone else.

She said four adults were in the home when the abuse is likely to have occurred Sunday morning. None of them were aware that any violence had taken place, Thomas said.

Were all in shock right now, Thomas said. I cant comprehend the level of trust that as a grandma, a parent of five kids myself, I gave to him to keep this child.

Youre treating this child as yours. Hes calling you Daddy, hes getting up with us every morning, hes making breakfast, she continued. We trusted you.

Based on the injuries, the babys death was immediately determined to be a homicide. An autopsy revealed a fractured skull and massive internal injuries, authorities said.

Naziers body also had bruises on the belly, an indication that fluids had gathered in the body, according to officials.

Latrell Lewis, pictured, has been arrested for the murder of his girlfriends 2-year-old boy, Nazier Paris.

Medics were called to the babys home on E. 68th St. near Avenue U in Bergen Beach around noon Sunday, after the child began complaining of stomach pains and fell unconscious.

During their investigation, cops determined that Lewis inflicted the injuries on the child and threw the boy onto the floor at least once along with hitting him against the wall, police sources said.

Its Lewis first arrest in the city, according to police.

He has a previous arrest for reckless driving, officials said.

A neighbor, Abraham Reisch, said the family has lived there about two years and is very friendly. He said he did not know the suspect.

You never met a nicer family, said Reisch, 53. Walls are thin over here, but all I ever heard was music and positive vibes. Whoever this Latrell guy is, hes an aberration. Theyre nice people, very sweet people.

Thomas said she still cant wrap her head around Naziers death  or Lewis suspected involvement.

We all just came back from a vacation to Splish Splash, Thomas said. He was interacting. He was cooking. He was fixing lunch, fixing breakfast, giving my grandson showers, brushing my grandsons teeth. This came out of nowhere. I cant understand.

Even at the hospital, in the moments before the toddler died, Thomas said she was still trusting Lewis.

I had a brief conversation while in the hospital with Latrell, and he told me that Nazier was complaining about his stomach, Thomas said. He told me that he called my daughter. She told him to make him some tea. He did that.

He told me he assisted him with brushing his teeth. I guess he then Facetimed my daughter. She saw that he wasnt responding properly and told him to call 911.

Although cops have not shared the full extent of the evidence they collected against the suspect, Thomas said that what police have told the family is enough to convince them of Lewis guilt.

That includes a hole the size of a childs head found in the wall of the room where Nazier and Lewis slept. Thomas said Naziers injuries included a skull fracture.

It happened, because the physical abuse is there in the room, Thomas said. He was enclosed, but the evidence was there. So, proven facts. I would love to have more details. At this point, Im not trying to rule out if he was abusing the child any other way.

Nazier is not a rowdy child, the grandmother added. Its easy for him to hush him back to sleep. Im still trying to fathom. In my eyes, if he had admitted what he did early, it would have saved a life. Instead he tried to cover it up. I know they uncovered all this evidence just being in the room.

Thomas said she is devastated.

Its like losing one of my own, she said. I delivered him. I cut his umbilical cord. So its like I brought this child to life, and he didnt even live half his life. I literally blacked out in here last night. For me, every moment is just seeing Nazier running through the living room, the bedroom. I cant stand to be in the bedroom.

She recalled her last fond memory of the boy.

I was right here with him this Saturday evening after work, playing outside, she said. I gave him $2 to put in his piggy bank. He ran back in, met me right at the front door, called me Grandma, gave me a hug, gave me a kiss.

I was on my way to get him Sunday morning, and the call I received from her was just devastating.
Sadiq Khan's plans to grow London's Ultra Low Emissions Zone across all London boroughs have officially come into force on August 29.

The plans which were originally announced by former Mayor of London Boris Johnson, has been pushed all the way out to Zone 6 by Sadiq Khan.

And although there will be a grace for some with non-compliant ULEZ cars period until October 25, 2027, most have to dish out the 12.50-a-day charge, if they don't meet the standard.

So who has to pay the daily charge? What vehicles are exempt and do you have to give up driving to avoid it altogether?

Mayor of London Sadiq Khan's ULEZ expansion plans came into force across all 33 London boroughs on August 29

If you want to continue driving but avoid ULEZ charges there are alternatives to the scrappage scheme available. Equally your car could be ULEZ compliant. Pictured: Sadiq Khan with an air quality monitoring station sign during a visit to Mums for Lungs community group in South Woodford, London

Who doesn't pay the ULEZ fee?

The ULEZ expansion which is now in affect across the whole of London, except for the M25, will require that vehicles which are not ULEZ compliant pay !2.50 a day fee.

The plans have been introduced with the intention of making London's air cleaner by discouraging drivers with highly pollutant cars from the roads.

To avoid the ULEZ charge you vehicle must be ULEZ compliant and meet the following standards set out by Transport for London:

Euro 3 for motorcycles, mopeds, motorised tricycles and quadricycles

Euro 4 (NOx) for petrol cars, vans, minibuses and other specialist vehicles

Euro 6 (NOx and PM) for diesel cars, vans and minibuses and other specialist vehicles

The majority of diesel cars under six and petrol vehicles under the age of 16 tend to meet the criteria in order to be ULEZ compliant.

To ensure your motor meets the ULEZ standards enter your number plate here.

Eligible road users and vehicles will be given a grace period until October 24, 2027. Pictured: Transport for London ULEZ sign

What vehicles are exempt?

When the plans were initially discussed there were fears disabled Londoners as well as those on low incomes would be disproportionately affected.

Initially a scrappage scheme was introduced for these cohorts to exchange their non-compliant motors, in exchange for grants and travel passes, which is now open to all Londoners.

However, there are still grace periods in place for community transport providers as well as those are disabled, so they get a chance to prepare for the changes that will come with the expansion.

Vehicles with disabled passengers, wheelchair accessible vehicles as well as those who receive disability benefits may be eligible for the grace period.

Scrappage Scheme Grant Payment Options Scrap a car - 2,000

Scrap a car - 1,600 plus one adult-rate Annual Bus & Tram Pass

Scrap a car - 1,200 plus two adult-rate Annual Bus & Tram Passes

Scrap a motorcycle - 1,000

Scrap a motorcycle - 600 plus one adult-rate Annual Bus & Tram Pass

Scrap a motorcycle - 200 plus two adult-rate Annual Bus & Tram Passes

Scrap a wheelchair accessible vehicle (car or van) - 10,000

Retrofit a wheelchair accessible vehicle - 6,000 Source: Transport for London Advertisement

Those who meet the criteria will not have to shelf out for the 12.50 charge until October 24, 2027.

It will still be compulsory for blue badge holders to pay the ULEZ fee if they do not meet the criteria for any of the three categories and are not eligible for the grace period.

However, certain blue badge holders will still be required to hand over the daily fee if they do not fulfil criteria for any of the three grace period categories, according to TfL.

What is the ULEZ scrappage scheme?

Initially, Khan introduced a scrappage scheme that was only open to Londoners with disabilities, or on a lower income as well as small businesses and charities in London.

This meant only those eligible within this cohort would receive a travel pass and grant in exchange for their non-compliant ULEZ motor.

But after pumping another 50 million, into the already 110million pound scheme. the London Mayor opened it up to all Londoners.

As a result everyone living in London can trade in their non-compliant ULEZ vehicle in exchange for two TfL travel pass and a partial grant of 1,200.

A partial grant of 1,600 alongside one TfL travel pass, or alternatively a one-off grant of 2,000.

Certain Londoners could stand to get 1,000 for even shopping in their non-ULEZ compliant motorcycle.

Enterpise and Zipcar give Londoners the option of renting a ULEZ compliant vehicle hourly. However, not all rent-a- car companies are guaranteed to supply ULEZ compliant motors. Pictured: New Ulez on the M4 near Heathrow Airport making drivers aware they will shortly be within the ULEZ zone

Do I have to give up driving?

Although, TfL and Sadiq Khan are offering up Londoners public transport passes and one off grants for shopping in their non-compliant ULEZ vehicle, you don't have to take public transport to avoid the 12.50-a-day fee.

There is the option of becoming a part of a car club or hiring a car. There are several car clubs which have 4,000 cars readily available in England's capital.

These could serve as an alternative option to paying the ULEZ fee on a non-compliant vehicle, according to CoMoUK, a national charity which champions shared transport.

Both Zipcar and Enterprise allow you to rent a ULEZ-compliant motors for 5 to 6 an hour.

It will cost you 10 to join Zipcar and give it a go. From there you can hire cars for 9 every hour.

Then if you come to the conclusion it is your cup of tea you can join as a member. This subscription will allow you to get your hands on cheaper hourly rentals.

Equally, if they have a centre near your home could cost considerably less than owning and paying for its tax, insurance and up-keep.

It is advised that you always check if the vehicle you are driving is ULEZ compliant.

Although, Enterprise and Zipcar provide customers with cars that meet the ULEZ standards, other rental car companies are not guaranteed to do the same.

To check if the motor you are driving is ULEZ compliant enter the registration of the vehicle here.

It is also recommended that if you decide to go down the rent-a-car route, that you get the excess insurance, in the event an accident happens while you are out and about.
Yevgeny Prigozhin was buried today in a modest grave at a small, quiet ceremony that Vladimir Putin refused to attend but was overseen by his henchmen.

The Wagner warlord was buried at cemetery on the outskirts of his hometown of St Petersburg six days after his death in a plane crash.

Red, white, and yellow flowers were seen laid on top of his wooden grave, which was heavily guarded by armed police and private security.

Members of the Russian National Guard were stationed along the fence at the cemetery, steering visitors away after it closed for the day.

Prigozhin's press service said in a short post on Telegram that the service took place behind closed doors, and directed 'those who wish to bid their farewell' to the 62-year-old to visit the Porokhovskoye cemetery.

Russian policemen stand guard during after the funeral of PMC Wagner group chief Yevgeny Prigozhin on Porokhov cemetery in St Petersburg, Russi

He was reportedly buried next to his father in the small cemetery on the outskirts of St Petersburg

Red, white, and yellow flowers were seen laid on top of a wooden grave in a cemetery on the outskirts of St Petersburg

Police officers guard with an anti-drone gun at the entrance of the Porokhovskoye cemetery in St Petersburg after a memorial service for mercenary chief Yevgeny Prigozhin

An officer take pictures of the grave of Wagner Group's chief Yevgeny Prigozhin after a funeral at the Porokhovskoye cemeter

Yavgeny Prigozhin (pictured) was killed in an alleged plane crash last week, two months to the day after he staged a coup against Putin

Secrecy had surrounded the funeral of the violent warlord, which was reportedly attended just by close friends and family members.

Heavy security was involved across the whole ceremony, with several guards and metal detectors present.

Prigozhin is believed to have been buried next to his father.

A Russian news outlet, MSK1.RU, quoted cemetery staff as saying that the privacy of the ceremony was in accordance with his family's wish.

Putin did not attend the funeral, despite the pair sharing a close relationship in the lead-up to Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

The Russian leader had decried the armed rebellion in June as 'treason' and 'a stab in the back.'

The secrecy and confusion surrounding the funeral of Prigozhin and his top lieutenants reflected a dilemma faced by the Kremlin amid swirling speculation that the crash was likely a vendetta for his June 23-24 uprising.

A biblical message was left in a photo frame that leaned on Prigozhin's headstone

A young woman crosses herself as she lights a candle at an informal street memorial with flowers and lit candles for Wagner Group's military group members killed in a plane crash

A view shows a portrait of Wagner mercenary chief Yevgeny Prigozhin at a makeshift memorial in Moscow, Russia

Many across the world pointed fingers at Vladimir Putin (pictured) as the person who ordered his death

While it tried to avoid any pomp-filled ceremony for him, the Kremlin couldn't afford to denigrate Prigozhin, who reportedly received Russia's highest award for leading Wagner forces in Ukraine and was idolised by many of the country's hawks.

Putin's comments on Prigozhin's death reflected that careful stand. He noted last week that Wagner leaders 'made a significant contribution' to the fighting in Ukraine and described Prigozhin as a 'talented businessman' and 'a man of difficult fate' who had 'made serious mistakes in life.'

Sergei Markov, a pro-Kremlin political analyst, noted that Prigozhin has become a legendary figure for his supporters who are increasingly critical of the authorities.

'Prigozhin's funeral raises an issue of communication between the bureaucratic Russian government system that doesn't have much political potential and politically active patriotic segment of the Russian public,' Markov said.

The secretive service 'became the final stage of a special operation to eliminate him,' said Tatiana Stanovaya, a senior fellow at the Carnegie Russia Eurasia Centre.

'Everything was as closed as possible, under full control of the security forces, with distracting manoeuvres,' she said in a commentary on her Telegram channel.

A soldier stands guard during the funeral ceremony of Yevgeny Prigozhin

Russian National Guard (Rosgvardiya) servicemen stand guard at the Porokhovskoye cemetery where Wagner private mercenary group chief Yevgeny Prigozhin, who was killed in a private jet crash in the Tver region last week, was buried, in St Petersburg today

His funeral took place in a small graveyard on the edge of St Petersburg, his hometown

Only close friends and family members attended the small, private ceremony

Prigozhin was killed in a plane crash last week, two months to the day after he staged a coup against Putin.

Two other top Wagner figures, four Prigozhin bodyguards and three crew members were also killed when the Embraer Legacy 600 private jet crashed north of Moscow.

The country's top criminal investigation agency, the Investigative Committee, didn't say what might have caused Prigozhin's business jet to plummet from the sky, minutes after taking off from Moscow for St. Petersburg.

Just before the crash, Prigozhin had reportedly returned from a trip to Africa, where he sought to expand Wagner Group's activities.

Many across the world pointed fingers at Putin as the person who ordered his death. A preliminary US intelligence assessment concluded that an intentional explosion caused the plane to crash, and Western officials have pointed to a long list of Putin's foes who have been assassinated.

The Kremlin has rejected as an 'absolute lie' the suggestion that Putin ordered his death in revenge for the revolt, which saw Wagner troops and tanks take over the southern Russian city of Rostov-on-Don on their way up to Moscow.

Prigozhin and his mercenary group were sent to Belarus after a deal was reached between himself and the Kremlin, which was brokered by Belarus' president Alexander Lukashenko, that allowed him to walk away without any charges against his name.

Armed police were seen surveying the surrounding area at the ceremony

Metal detectors, as well as heavy security, were seen at the ceremony to mourn the dead warlord

Police were seen inspecting and guarding the grave of Yevgeny Prigozhin, the dead Wagner chief

Though his funeral has taken place, and genetic testing run by Russia's Investigative Committee seemingly confirmed that he had in fact died on the fateful plane ride north of Moscow, this hasn't stopped some from claiming that Prigozhin is still alive.

Dr Valery Solovey, a Russian political analyst, claims that the warlord is 'alive, free and well.'

'First, the plane in which Yevgeny Prigozhin was supposed to fly was downed by a Russian air defence system,' he said, challenging US intelligence claims that the plane was destroyed by a blast on board.

'There was no explosion on board. It was downed from the outside.'

The secret operation to carry out this strike 'was developed in [Russia's] Security Council, and was sanctioned personally by the Russian president [Vladimir Putin]', he claimed.

Earlier today, the final photos of the Wagner chief emerged, showing him snapping selfies with locals in what is understood to be Bangui, the capital of the Central African Republic.

A portrait on the grave of PMC Wagner group chief Yevgeny Prigozhin on Porokhov cemetery in St Petersburg, Russia

Two other top Wagner figures, four Prigozhin bodyguards and three crew members were also killed in the plane crash

Police guard at the entrance of the Porokhovskoye cemetery in St Petersburg, Russia

The mercenary leader, who had traded his typical military fatigues for plain civilian clothes, was surrounded by beaming locals who appeared thrilled to meet the Russian oligarch, posing for pictures, shaking hands and embracing the notorious figure.

The fate of the Wagner group is not currently known, and many interested groups are speculating over what will happen to the private military company, set up in 2014.

Putin forced Wagner fighters to swear an oath of allegiance to Russia just a few day after reports of their leader's death had emerged.

The wording of the oath includes a line forcing oath-takers to strictly follow the orders of commanders and senior Russian leaders.
Shocking photographs show Notting Hill Carnival revellers armed with huge machetes in the street in front of crowds of people in broad daylight.

One image shows a young man appearing to approach a group of men while waving a large weapon in the air, as many stand back and watch.

The photographer said he found himself 'in the wrong place at the wrong time' and claimed the 'joyful atmosphere turned unexpectedly as an altercation broke out nearby, between two gangs with knives and a machete'.

Separate video footage also emerged today of a gang of youths, one holding a suspected machete, running down a west London street dressed in black and wearing balaclavas amid a violent end to the annual festival.

The Metropolitan Police says it made 308 arrests across Sunday and Monday, as eight people were stabbed on Monday in just a matter of hours, including a 29-year-old man who was taken to hospital in a 'critical' condition.

This shocking photo shows the moment a young man waves around a machete at Notting Hill carnival

A man is seen to wield a large machete-type blade as another person tumbles to the floor in Ladbroke Grove, Notting Hill, West London on Monday

A man is seen running across Ladbroke Grove holding a machete-type blade above his head on Monday. Police say eight people were stabbed in a number of incidents on the second day of the Notting Hill Carnival

A man is seen holding his face in his hands as he is escorted away from the Notting Hill Carnival by a pair of Metropolitan Police officers

A police officer puts down a forensic marker in the road at the scene of an incident in Notting Hill on Monday. The Metropolitan Police says it made over 300 arrests across two days

A man waves a machete-type weapon around in broad daylight in front of crowds of people at Notting Hill Carnival on Monday

Police officers were also kicked, punched, spat on, bitten, head-butted and even sexually assaulted - in all, more than 50 officers were assaulted.

The Metropolitan Police Federation, which represents rank-and-file officers, says it is aware of 75 incidents of officers being attacked, branding the incidents 'absolutely disgusting'.

The Metropolitan Police Federation, which represents rank-and-file staff, described attacks on 75 officers as 'absolutely disgusting'.

It said it was aware of six incidents in which officers were bitten, one sexual assault against a police officer, and another who was injured so badly they were taken to hospital for treatment.

'No wonder our members dread policing this event,' a tweet from the federation said.

It comes as a shocking photograph shows a boy waving what appears to be a huge machete in the air, while another picture shows the same boy appearing to point the 'weapon' at a person who is on the ground.

Footage shows how police on horseback try to chase after the group as they run away, with a large crowd watching on.

Some members in the group turn their heads to check behind them as they flee but others don't look back.

People commenting on the video have said 'that's why I don't go on Monday', which is 'adults day'.

Detectives had praised the 'positive' and 'good natured' atmosphere on Sunday, but officers were forced into action after the carnival descended into violence on Bank Holiday Monday.

Police said that a 29-year-old man was in a critical condition after he was stabbed in Warfield Road, just off Harrow Road, shortly after 9pm, but is now in a 'serious but stable' condition.

A 19-year-old man was stabbed in Ladbroke Grove shortly before 8pm and also remains in a serious but stable condition in hospital.

Meanwhile, six other men aged 18, 19, 20, 25, 28 and 40 were stabbed in separate incidents. They sustained non life-threatening injuries.

Chaotic scenes at Notting Hill Carnival on Monday, pictured around the Ladbroke Grove area

A boy holding what appears to be a machete runs down the street with a group of youths

Police keep watch in numbers at Notting Hill Carnival on Monday

The Met said it made a total of 308 arrests across the two days. On Sunday, there were 110 arrests for offences including possession of offensive weapons, assaults including on police officers, possession of drugs and sexual offences.

One man sustained a non life-changing slash wound but turned down help from the emergency services.

Officers also acted quickly to intercept a group who was in the possession of a firearm. They seized the weapon and arrested a man.

On Monday there were a further 198 arrests for a similar range of offences.

Notting Hill Carnival Ltd, which organises the two-day street party, has distanced itself from Monday's violent scenes, saying those responsible 'have nothing to do with Notting Hill Carnival or its values'.

In a statement released on Tuesday, the firm said: 'Notting Hill Carnival has once again been a spectacular weekend of colour and sound, the culmination of a year's long work, that results in this hugely important and unique cultural event.

'Carnival is about these communities and people, who dedicate so much time, love, incredible creativity and effort to the parade, sound systems, music, food, costumes and much more that makes up the event.

'We deplore all acts of violence, these people have nothing to do with Notting Hill Carnival and its values.

'Tragically, these incidents are all too common in our society. Last year the Office for National Statistics shows that 12,786 knife offences were carried out in the capital over the 12 months to the end of March, this sadly affects us as much as any community.

'We will continue to work hard with our partners to protect Notting Hill Carnival and the people who make it so special.'

Detectives had praised the 'positive' and 'good-natured' atmosphere across the weekend but officers were forced into action after the carnival descended into violence on Bank Holiday Monday. Pictured: Two ambulances arrive at the scene

Pictured: A Met Police officer holds an evidence bag with a seized weapon in it on the final day of carnival

Council workers were in attendance until the early hours cleaning an enormous amount of waste from the area

It came as the Conservative Party's London mayoral candidate Susan Hall called for the carnival to be moved and potentially held in a park, saying police 'don't want to be there'.

However, a spokesman for London mayor Sadiq Khan said the event was 'born out of the Caribbean community in north Kensington and Notting Hill' and that this should 'remain its home'.

Ms Hall told LBC: 'It's very upsetting and I'm afraid we have this every single year. It's an incredible thing, the Notting Hill Carnival. I would just say move it. Move it to where it can be policed much better than where it is now.

'Because it's so good and so successful, very, very many people go there, so it's very, very difficult to police, so I'd be urging people to look at somewhere else it could go.'

Asked where it should be moved to, she added: 'Perhaps to a park. And let the organisers look and see where they would like it to be moved to.

'Of course, it is up to everybody else, it's not up to me at this specific point. I just comment that every year - all the accidents, all the stabbings, all the various things that go on that we would not want.

'And I talk to police officers daily, and they don't want to be there, quite frankly, because they know that they are in danger.'

The violence came at the end of two days of steel drums, barbecues and flamboyant headdresses, which drew to a close last night.

The violence came after two days of steel drums, barbecues and flamboyant headdresses, Notting Hill Carnival drew to a close last night

Council crews are now swarming across west London to tidy up mounds of rubbish after two million revellers took to the streets

Canisters of nitrous oxide abandoned amongst rubbish at the site of the 2023 Notting Hill Carniva

The streets of the posh west London suburb are now covered in huge piles of rubbish

A large pile of discarded take away boxes sits on the side of the stained pavement

Colourfully costumed revellers paraded through the streets of west London on Monday - the final day of the carnival

Hundreds of thousands of partygoers massed in Kensington for a sunny 'carnival climax' yesterday, which saw the adults' parade kick off in the morning before a feast of music took over the streets.

Celebrities including Lily Allen, Nick Grimshaw and Idris Elba, who hosted his own DJ set, were spotted enjoying the vibrant annual celebration of Caribbean culture and history.

Council teams are now swarming across west London to sweep up and tidy mounds of rubbish after two million revellers descended en masse for this year's carnival which sadly turned ugly on the second day.

Met Police deputy assistant commissioner Ade Adelekan, who oversaw the policing operation, said: 'It is regrettable that for a second year in a row, Monday night at Carnival has been marred by serious violence.

'Nobody disputes the significance of Carnival on London's cultural calendar and the overwhelming majority of those who came will have had a positive experience. However, we cannot overlook the stabbings, sexual assaults and attacks on police officers that we have seen.

'As we do following any major operation, we will be reviewing the events of the past two days and giving thorough consideration to what may need to change in future years.

'It is important to recognise the positives that we can take away from the event. I am pleased that by working in close partnership with the event organisers and the stewarding teams, we were able to closely monitor crowd density and intervene in an effective way to prevent any incidents of crushing at peak times.

'I would like to thank all the officers who have worked so hard over the weekend to keep people safe.

'Carnival is a challenging policing environment. Officers were asked to be vigilant and alert but to be approachable, respectful and sensitive at the same time. They did all of that and more and they deserve our recognition and our thanks.'

A huge pile of detritus sits outside two boarded up businesses in Notting Hill

Graffiti adorns the makeshift barricades installed by businesses in the area
San Francisco has been named the most expensive US city for commuters as a new study shows residents spend $12,650 annually - nearly $50 a day - on travel.

New research from business website Chamber of Commerce found that San Francisco's costs are more than double the national average of $5,478.

Additionally, the average commuter in San Francisco also spends 58.4 minutes on every day to get in and out of the city, one of the longest commutes in the U.S.

'When I lived in Oakland and commuted to work in San Francisco, my trip was ninety minutes each way on public transit,' one person on social media shared.

An expensive commute and long travel times are just two of the latest reasons the city has become a ghost town in recent years.

San Francisco and other Bay Area cities have been plagued by a rise in crime, homelessness, and drug use as politicians have seemingly turned a blind eye.

A map shows the top 10 cities in the United States with the costliest commutes

San Francisco has been named the most expensive U.S. city for commuters as a new study shows residents spend $12,650 annually - nearly $50 a day - on travel

Ghost town! San Francisco has seen a mass exodus of both residents of businesses

While the city has the most expensive yearly commute, San Francisco has the third highest median income on the list of the 25 cities with the costliest commute.

The median earnings for residents in the area is $103,978.

The number two spot on the list of costliest commutes went to Fremont, California, another Bay Area city. Yearly, Fremont commuters spend $12,048.

Fremont had the second highest median income on the list at $104,768 while Sunnyvale had the highest median at $125,504.

Sunnyvale took the number eight spot on the list but commuters still spent a whopping $10,354 annually - or $39.82 per day.

On average, San Francisco and Fremont commuters spend nearly 60 minutes each day to get in and out of their city while Sunnyvale commuters spend about 40.

In total, California cities took 11 of the top 25 spots for costliest commutes.

Of the 11, six are located in the Golden State's troubled Bay Area, including the aforementioned three plus Hayward, Oakland, and San Jose.

All six cities spend some $2,400 more than the national average commuter cost.

Spots three, four, and five on the list went to Washington, D.C.; Jersey City, New Jersey; New York, New York.

A single traveler arrives at a Bay Area Rapid Transit train station for his commute

A San Francisco mall is seen almost completely barren in June 2023

A boarded up Old Navy in a file photo from May 2020

San Francisco and other cities in the Bay Area have been plagued by a shocking rise in crime, homelessness, and public drug use

Shoplifting has become so bad in San Francisco that some stores are now padlocking shut their freezers and tying metal chains to ensure the doors remain closed overnight

The report detailing the expensive commute for residents in the Bay Area and the long travel times comes as San Francisco already experiences a mass exodus.

In recent months, the city has lost dozens of major businesses as retailers flee from the crime and drug-ridden city.

On Sunday, the area's flagship Nordstrom closed after nearly three decades in business, leaving a massive gap in a shopping plaza in the city's center.

'It's half of the mall that is no longer going to be here. I do think it might change the businesses. You can already see it. It's unfortunate,' said a Nordstrom employee.

In mid-August, the owner of one of the area's largest box stores called out politicians for failing to act to address rampant homelessness and thievery.

John Chachas, the owner of local luxury furnisher Gump's, paid for a full-page ad in Sunday's San Francisco Chronicle to pen a scathing letter.

The ad, addressed to Governor Gavin Newsom and Mayor London Breed accuses the politicians of dereliction of duty due to the city's major and rampant issues.

Chachas, 59, also said if things continue on the current path, it could end up in the 166-year-old store's doors closing forever.

Expressing a deep desire to not be the latest casualty of the so-called 'retail apocalypse' gripping the city, Cachas demanded Newsom and Breed immediately reassess their 'failed public policies', or face a future without his store.

As for an explanation why, the Columbia and Harvard Business School grad said: 'San Francisco now suffers from a 'tyranny of the minority' - behavior and actions of the few that jeopardize the livelihood of the many.

Other stores that have shuttered their doors in the area include Whole Foods, Anthropologie, Old Navy, AmazonGo, Saks Off Fifth, and Office Depot.

Meanwhile, remaining stores such as Target have been reduced to locking up their entire stock behind glass to deter shoplifters.

An analysis of official figures and other research reveals San Francisco may lose hundreds of millions of dollars through an exodus of businesses and its failure to recover from Covid

In early August, John Chachas, the owner of local luxury furnisher Gump's, paid for a full-page ad in Sunday's San Francisco Chronicle to pen a scathing letter about the city's issues

Chachas said if things continue on the current path, it could end up in the 166-year-old store's doors closing forever

This is the full ad that Chachas paid to run in the San Francisco Chronicle

A map reveals the major businesses which have left, or have announced they are leaving, San Francisco in recent months. Retailers like Whole Foods, Anthropologie, Old Navy, AmazonGo, Saks Off Fifth, and Office Depot are among those taking part in the mass exodus

The city has also suffered from the rise in remote working after the pandemic, which has decimated footfall in the financial district and Union Square areas.

Office vacancies reached a record high of 31 percent in May, enough space for 92,000 workers.

In April, Salesforce said it will leave its eponymous 30-story Salesforce East building in downtown, where around 1,000 staff had worked before the pandemic.

Leaders estimate the situation will contribute to a budget shortfall of $1.3 billion in five years. The decline in property tax revenue alone could cost nearly $200 million per year, according to a worst-case scenario drawn up by the city's chief accountant.

The city is also facing rampant drug use - with many dealers plying their trade openly on the streets.

As a result, city figures show there were more than 268 drug overdose deaths in the first six months of 2023 alone  a 41 percent increase over 2022.
Tracy's health deteriorated days later and she has now died

A mum who contracted a rare bacterial infection after being bitten by a dog has sadly died.

Tracy Ridout, 53, was dogsitting a friend's German shepherd earlier this month and was trying to throw a toy when the pooch gave her a playful nip on the finger.

The mother, from Perth, began suffering immense pain days later and eventually drove herself to Rockingham General Hospital early on August 18, where she found out she had an infection in her kidneys, liver and blood.

Ms Ridout had contracted capnocytophaga canimorsus, an extremely rare bacterial infection passed on from an animal from a bite or lick.

She was transferred to Fiona Stanley Hospital as her condition rapidly deteriorated and her organs began shutting down.

Doctors told her devastated family on Friday there was nothing more they could do and sadly on Tuesday her daughter announced she had died.

Perth mum Tracy Ridout (right with daughter Sophie) contracted contracted capnocytophaga canimorsus, an infection which ended up in her kidneys, liver and blood

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'Unfortunately Tracy has sadly passed away,' her daughter Sophie wrote on a GoFundMe page.

'She will be missed by all her friends and family.'

Sophie and her brother Kieren spoke out last week to warn others about seeking urgent medical attention for a dog bite, regardless of how minor.

'Even if it's just a little dog bite  because that's what happened to my mum, it wasn't a vicious attack,' she said.

Kieren added: 'Obviously, we didn't know what to look out for and Mum didn't know what to look out for and I don't think any of us did.'

'When Granddad explained to us what was going on I was kind of shocked that it's gone from a dog bite to  we don't know what.

'I'm just trying to be strong ... the knowledge needs to be out there because God forbid it happens to someone else's mum or someone's family member in any way.'

The bacteria is commonly found in the mouths of cats and dogs but rarely causes illness in humans.

Symptoms include blisters near the wound, redness, swelling, pain or fever.

'The people at high risk of having an infected animal bite are those with compromised immune systems, including people with diabetes,' Australian Medical Association WA president Dr Michael Page said.

'We would recommend that nearly every animal bite is seen by a doctor so it can be properly cleaned out and had a close eye kept on it.'

Tracy died on Tuesday after a brave battle for her life (pictured in hospital)
Ludlum claimed the tour was satire as he slammed city officials in a letter

The 'Doom Loop Walking Tour' offered to take people around the city's seedier side for $30

The San Francisco official who resigned after promoting a 'doom loop' tour of the city's downtown has been named as a high-flying real estate investor.

The now-canceled 'Doom Loop Walking Tour' offered people the opportunity to 'get close and personal to the doom and squalor of downtown San Francisco' for $30.

The planned hour-and-a-half 'Doom and Squalor' tour of open-air drug markets, abandoned tech offices and deserted department stores' was scheduled for Saturday - and sold out - but was cancelled following backlash from locals.

Alex Ludlum, 36, who served as the commissioner for the Commission on Community Investment and Infrastructure, resigned from the position on Monday in a defiant letter to Democratic mayor London Breed.

'The decision to organize and publicize the tour was a mistake and a deep error in judgment.

'We are working every day to address the City's challenges, and our focus remains on doing the work to move this City forward,' the mayor's office said.

The San Francisco official who resigned after promoting a 'doom loop' tour of the city's troubled downtown area has been named as high-flying real estate investor Alex Ludlum, 36

A map of the original route of the $30 'Doom Loop' walking tours of the city's troubled downtown

But Ludlum claimed the tour was satire, writing: 'I regret that my attempt to bring attention to the deplorable street conditions & rampant criminality in my neighborhood has been misconstrued as a mockery of suffering individuals. Satire is a poor way to address the grave issues we face as a city.

'The causes of the conditions we witness daily are not individual actors, but wide ranging policies that permit an organized, malicious element to thrive in San Francisco.

The unchecked drug dealing is plainly the root of our current problems... All of downtown will suffer until the markets are closed.'

He had only described himself as a 'city commissioner' and went by the username 'SF Anonymous Insider' when he anonymously posted the event on EventBrite earlier this month.

The event was cancelled on Friday, as Ludlum blamed the media attention and his concern that his identity would be revealed.

But Ludlum claimed the tour was satire, writing: 'I regret that my attempt to bring attention to the deplorable street conditions & rampant criminality in my neighborhood has been misconstrued as a mockery of suffering individuals'

San Francisco Board of Supervisors President Aaron Peskin claimed on Monday that Ludlum had told him the tour has been a joke that went too far

'Unfortunately, the substantial media interest means that it is not possible to preserve my anonymity while publicly posting the tour's time and meeting location,' he told the San Francisco Chronicle.

San Francisco Board of Supervisors President Aaron Peskin claimed on Monday that Ludlum had told him the tour has been a joke that went too far.

'He indicated that he meant it as 'satire' for whatever that's worth,' Peskin told SF Gate.

Ludlum is the co-founder of the SoMa West Community Benefit District, where he serves as vice president of the board of directors.

He was appointed to the commission last year by mayor Breed.

On Saturday, activist Del Seymour, who runs the jobs nonprofit Code Tenderloin, took people on a 'anti-doom loop' walking tour intended to show the area's beauty - but even they couldn't avoid seeing the doom and squalor of the city's homeless problem.

Seymour, who regularly runs a tour through San Francisco's Tenderloin, led a group of 70-80 people which included people who had gathered to protest the original tour and some who had showed up to support it.

He told the New York Post he viewed the original tour with derision.

Activist Del Seymour, who runs the jobs nonprofit Code Tenderloin, took people on a 'anti-doom loop' walking tour intended to show the area's beauty

A map reveals the major businesses which have left, or plan to leave, San Francisco in recent months

'I fell out of the chair laughing because of the meanness that people in San Francisco have to even suggest something like this,' Seymour said.

'This is not healthy or helpful at all for our people,' he added. 'We don't want to live in the situation we are living in. We want to do something about it, but you can't do something about it when people beat you down.'

However, despite the positive tinge to the walk, homeless and drug addicts were still more than visible to those who'd taken the risk.

Visible drug use, including fentanyl, and several men and women lying around on the street greeted Seymour's tour, with the Post suggesting 'the stench of urine mixed with human and animal feces was at times overwhelming.'

San Francisco's once bustling Union Square and downtown area is a shadow of its former self: rows of empty stores, sparse crowds even on peak weekend shopping days, and nearby hotels  including a huge Hilton - unable to cover their mortgage payments.

The city has also struggled in recent years with rampant fentanyl use and fatal overdoses, and is on pace for its deadliest year yet.

In the first five months of 2023, preliminary reports show there were 346 overdose deaths in the city - an increase of more than 40 percent from the same period in 2022.

Economists have warned the city is spiraling into an 'urban doom loop' - a vicious circle of interconnected trends and forces that send cities into economic and social ruin.

High theft has proved a problem in the area recently, with a Walgreens in the city center resolving to chaining their freezers to stop shoplifters.

An analysis of official figures and other research reveals San Francisco may lose hundreds of millions of dollars through an exodus of businesses and its failure to recover from Covid

Over the past few months, dozens of retailers announced they would be vacating the downtown area of the city.

Retail stalwart Old Navy announced they would be shuttering their flagship store in the area last month, becoming the latest chain to exit the city.

It comes after retail giant Nordstrom announced they would be closing all of their locations in the city.

The company said that due to the 'changing dynamics' of San Francisco it would be shuttering all remaining stores in the next few months.

A disturbing recent report showed 95 retailers in downtown San Francisco have closed since the start of the COVID pandemic, a decline of more than 50 percent.

Out of 203 retailers open in 2019 in the city's Union Square area, just 107 are still operating, a drop of 47 percent in just a few pandemic-ravaged years.
A new book reveals how President Joe Biden sweated the details of his disastrous withdrawal from Afghanistan, inserting himself into problem solving discussions and bemoaning newspaper columns that described the chaos at Kabul's airport.

'Either the press is losing its mind, or I am,' he told an aide.

His view was that the shocking images of disarray during the hurried evacuation were the inevitable consequence of a difficult decision, according to an account of the 2021 operation in 'The Last Politician: Inside Joe Biden's White House and the Struggle for America's Future' by Franklin Foer.

It paints a picture of a president who stuck stubbornly to his belief that he had made the right decision despite the way the Taliban were able to sweep through the country and seize the capital as American troops left.

'And amid the crisis, a crisis that taxed his character and managerial acumen, the president revealed himself,' writes Foer in an excerpt published by the Atlantic.

On April 14, 2021, President Joe Biden announced that the withdrawal of American troops from Afghanistan would be completed by September 11, a political deadline that was later dropped

Four months later, Biden was at Dover Air Force Base for the return of 13 U.S. personnel who were killed in a suicide attack during the chaotic evacuation from Kabul airport

'For a man long caricatured as a political weather vane, Biden exhibited determination, even stubbornness, despite furious criticism from the establishment figures whose approval he usually craved.

'For a man vaunted for his empathy, he could be detached, even icy, when confronted with the prospect of human suffering.'

This week marks the second anniversary of the U.S. exit from a 20-year war. The last soldier stepped off Afghan soil on Aug. 30, 2021.

But missteps along the way, capped by a suicide attack that killed 13 U.S. personnel and more than 160 Afghans, mean there will be little official fanfare in Washington to honor the date.

In Foer's telling, those missteps started with Biden's April announcement that U.S. troops would be leaving.

'Biden's speech contained a hole that few noted at the time. It scarcely mentioned the Afghan people, with not even an expression of best wishes for the nation that the United States would be leaving behind,' he writes in his book, which will be published on Sept. 5 by Penguin.

'The Afghans were apparently only incidental to his thinking.'

On top of that, he set September 11, the 20th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks, as the deadline for the departure, apparently much to the irritation of Gen. Mark Milley, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.

'Although he never officially complained about it, Milley didnt understand the decision,' writes Foer. 'How did it honor the dead to admit defeat in a conflict that had been waged on their behalf?'

But Biden expressed fury that coverage focused on the chaos of the withdrawal

The Americans killed in the blast were: (left to right, starting with top row) Cpl. Daegan W. Page - Sgt. Johanny Rosario Pichardo - Staff Sgt. Darin T. Hoover - Lance Cpl. David L. Espinoza - Lance Cpl. Rylee J. McCollum - Lance Cpl. Kareem M. Nikoui - Cpl. Hunter Lopez - Lance Cpl. Jared M. Schmitz - Staff Sgt. Ryan C. Knauss - Cpl. Humberto A. Sanchez - Navy Corpsman Maxton W. Soviak - Lance Cpl. Dylan R. Merola - Sgt. Nicole L. Gee

That deadline was quietly shelved.

Planners had accounted for 'catastrophic scenarios' using tabletop simulations, but no-one really believed they would be needed.

The White House believed the Afghan government's armed forces could hold off the Taliban for months, allowing a scaled-down U.S. embassy to stay open, running aid programs and issuing visas.

In the event, an army built to an American model needed American air support and American contractors to fight the enemy. Its troops simply melted away as the Americans left.

Taliban fighters arrived in Kabul on Aug. 15, triggering chaotic scenes at Hamid Karzai International Airport as desperate Afghans tried to flee their new masters.

'After seeing the abject desperation on the HKIA tarmac, the president had told the situation room that he wanted all the planes flying thousands of troops into the airport to leave filled with evacuees,' writes Foer. 'Pilots should pile American citizens and Afghans with visas into those planes.'

Taliban forces took control of Kabul on August 15, 2021, triggering a haphazard evacuation of foreign nationals and vulnerable Afghans. And it meant US forces had to rely on Taliban help

Major General Chris Donahue, commander of the US Army 82nd Airborne Division, pictured boarding a C-17 cargo plane at the Hamid Karzai International Airport on August 30, 2021

During and after the operation, officials talked up the extraordinary operation. Some 387 sorties flew more than 122,000 people out of Kabul by the end of August 30.

But the media coverage focused on chaos, images of people clinging to departing planes in desperation, and the fact that the U.S. failed to predict the rapid advance of the Taliban.

'Biden didn't have time to voraciously consume the news, but he was well aware of the coverage, and it infuriated him,' writes Foer. 'It did little to change his mind, though.

'In the caricature version of Joe Biden that had persisted for decades, he was highly sensitive to shifts in opinion, especially when they emerged from columnists at the Post or the Times.

'The criticism of the withdrawal caused him to justify the chaos as the inevitable consequence of a difficult decision, even though he had never publicly, or privately, predicted it.'

And Biden tried to micromanage key moments.

Foer wrote that 'Biden would pepper' former Ambassador to Afghanistan John Bass with ideas for how to get 'more evacuees through the gates' of the airport.

'The president's instinct was to throw himself into the intricacies of troubleshooting. Why don't we have them meeting in parking lots? Can't we leave the airport and pick them up?' Foer writes.
One of Donald Trump's 18 co-defendants became the first to plead not guilty in Georgia court on Monday, meaning he will be able to avoid doing so in front of cameras on September 6.

Georgia-based attorney Ray Smith, who worked for Trump, entered in writing his denial of wrongdoing in the election meddling case and waived his arraignment.

The rest of the co-defendants, including former President Trump, are scheduled to be arraigned next Wednesday in-person in Fulton County, Georgia, after they were required to turn themselves over for bookings by noon on Friday, August 25.

The booking resulted in the first mugshot of Trump despite three previous indictments - the latest for his efforts to illegally overturn the 2020 presidential election results in Georgia.

Smith surrendered to authorities at Fulton County jail on August 23 and was released on $50,000 bond.

Georgia-based attorney Ray Smith entered in writing a not guilty plea in the Fulton County election meddling case as one of Donald Trump's 18 co-defendants. He will now avoid an on-camera arraignment on September 6

Judge Steve Jones has already approved cameras in the courtroom for the arraignments on September 6, meaning the proceedings are able to be televised.

By Smith entering his not guilty plea in writing, he is able to avoid an on-camera arraignment.

'It is counsel's understanding that by filing this waiver of arraignment, prior to the arraignment date, that Mr. Smith and undersigned counsel are executed from appearing at the arraignment calendar on September 6, 2023,' the Georgia lawyer's attorney wrote.

There are sure to be other in-writing not guilty pleas to follow.

Smith currently faces 12 counts in the indictment, including part of the racketeering charge claiming there was a conspiracy involving several crimes to null President Joe Biden's 2020 victory in the Peach State.

Three counts are on soliciting a public officer to violate their oath of office and two are for making false statements. Six others relate to the scheme to submit fake electors, which includes counts on forgery and conspiracy.

Several of the counts against Smith involved his participation in Georgia legislative hearings where he and other attorneys sought to convince state lawmakers of mass election fraud.

During the proceedings, Smith spoke to lawmakers and questioned witnesses on Trump's team.

The 41-count indictment against Trump and the 18 co-defendants was handed down earlier this month by Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis.

Trump and 18 allies were faced earlier this month with a flurry of charges regarding the conspiracy to illegally overturn the 2020 presidential election results in Florida

Donald Trump's former chief of staff Mark Meadows (pictured) arrived at the Fulton County courthouse on Monday morning to take the witness stand in a bid to move his 2020 election subversion case out of Georgia and to federal court

Trump's last White House Chief of Staff Mark Meadows requested on Monday that his case be moved from Georgia to the federal level so he would receive a more representative jury pool. He argued during testimony that all of his actions were taken while under direction of the president and in his official capacity as the top White House aide.

Former Justice Department official Jeffrey Clark and former Georgia State Senator and GOP Chair David Shafer are also seeking that their cases are moved to federal court.

Judge Jones heard arguments for Meadows on Monday and scheduled a September 18 hearing to discuss Clark's request to move his case to federal court.

Jones did not issue a ruling Monday on Meadows' effort.

Other co-defendants include former Trump attorneys Rudy Giuliani, John Eastman, Disney Powell and Jenna Ellis.

Trump and all 18 others were charged with violating Georgia's Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organization Act, among other offenses.
Police have arrested a 17-year-old boy after a woman, 48, was found dead outside her home in Cheshire.

Police said the victim was 'seriously assaulted' in a 'domestic incident' at her property in Phoenix Place in the Chapelford area of Warrington.

She was pronounced dead at the scene and the boy has since been arrested on suspicion of murder after a brief search.

Cheshire Police said officers were called to reports of a domestic incident at around 9.40am today. They found the woman at the property.

Emergency services flooded the area and eight police vehicles were at the scene at one point.

Police have arrested a 17-year-old boy after a woman, 48, was found dead outside her home in in Phoenix Place in the Chapelford area of Warrington, Cheshire

Cheshire Police said officers were called to reports of a domestic incident at around 9.40am today

An air ambulance was called to the scene and the police helicopter was seen circling the skies above the scene as cops conducted door to door inquiries.

Detectives erected a cordon blue tent outside a house, which remained cordoned off this afternoon. They have appealed for information and dashcam footage of the incident.

DS Jon Betts said: 'I would like to reassure residents that this is believed to be an isolated incident and there is no risk to the wider community.

'A 17-year-old boy has been arrested and he is being held in police custody.

'There is currently an increased police presence in the local area, and I would urge anyone with any concerns to speak to an officer.

'As part our ongoing enquiries, I would like to hear from anyone who was in the Phoenix Place area between 9.30am and 9.45am and believes they may have witnessed the incident.

'The same goes for anyone with any video or dashcam footage.'

Anyone with any information or footage is asked to contact Cheshire Police on 101, quoting IML 1632153 or via cheshire.police.uk/tell-us .

Police have cordoned off the residential area where the woman was found dead
Firefighters are being urged to use gender-neutral language during emergency callouts, it can be revealed.

Kent Fire and Rescue Service staff are encouraged to use inclusive language with members of the public to embrace diversity.

It includes swapping he or she in favour of they or them as part of the services effort to recognise that everyone is unique and everyone has value, it says.

The advice has been slammed by critics who accused the service of pandering to a tiny minority.

Toby Young, director of the Free Speech Union, said: According to the most recent UK census, only 0.26 per cent of the population of England and Wales identify as trans or non-binary.

Kent Fire and Rescue Service (which runs stations across the county including Margate Fire Station, above) has been slammed for 'pandering' to non-binary people

Why, then, is Kent Fire and Rescue insisting firefighters address members of the public as they or them?

How is it inclusive to pander to 0.26 per cent of the population by using language that will confuse 99.74 per cent?

The Everyone together guidance sets out the forces commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion.

It tells members of the public that its firefighters and staff are dedicated to diversity.

It adds that the service is committed to ensuring we demonstrate fairness, sensitivity and respect in all aspects of our work.

The website reads: Our commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion is also demonstrated by the language we use.

'What we say and how we say it can have a huge impact on those around us, which is why its important to make sure our language includes everyone.

Remembering to speak and write with respect and kindness lies at the heart of who we are.

Being gender-neutral is more inclusive. For example, rather than using he or she, we try to use our customers and each others name, or refer to a person as they or them.

We may also neutralise titles and roles as this avoids stereotyping and bias.

Toby Young of the Free Speech Union says Kent Fire and Rescue Service will 'confuse' the 99.74 percent of the population that do not use 'they/them' pronouns

Kent Fire and Rescue Service is not the only brigade adopting woke diversity policies.

London Fire Brigade boasts of being a diversity champion for Stonewall  a LGBTQ+ charity, while Manchester Fire and Rescue Service is ranked 50th in the country for leading LGBTQ+ inclusive employers.

In 2017, Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service launched its own transgender policy that tells firefighters how to be a trans ally.

Kent Fire and Rescue Service chief executive Ann Millington said: As a service we recognise and understand that everyone is unique and everyone has value  everything we do is about keeping people safe, based on kindness and compassion.

We always encourage our colleagues to be themselves, and we want the people we serve across Kent and Medway to be confident in accessing our services.

Our inclusion strategy is all about everyone knowing we are there for them in times of need.
The family of a moped driver who suffered a fatal head injury after running a red light in the Bronx say their loved one was a good man  who made a bad habit of reckless driving.

He drove very fast, Ana Rosa Duarte, grandmother of victim Eliseo Garcia, told the Daily News. No, he didnt wear a helmet.

Surveillance footage captured the moment when Garcia, 23, drove his scooter through a red light at E. 184th St. as he headed north along the Grand Concourse at 1:26 a.m. Aug. 23.

Surveillance footage shows the moment when Eliseo Garcia (circled) drove his scooter through a red light at E. 184th St. as he headed north along Grand Concourse at 1:26 a.m. on Aug. 23.

An SUV driver heading west along E. 184th St. entered the intersection at roughly the same moment as Garcia, who can be seen swerving his two-wheeler to avoid the larger vehicle.

Garcias scooter then hurtled onto the pedestrian pathway separating the main thoroughfare of Grand Concourse from a service road. There, Garcia lost control and fell from the scooter.

Grisly cellphone footage obtained by The News shows Garcia unconscious and bleeding profusely from the head as good Samaritans attempted to comfort him.

Paramedics rushed him to St. Barnabas Hospital, where he was pronounced dead, cops said.

Eliseo Garcia crashed after he drove his moped through the red light at E. 184th St. and the Grand Concourse just as a vehicle entered the intersection, video shows.

The fatal collision followed an accident last year in which Garcia suffered a back injury after being thrown from an e-scooter he was riding, which left him on disability ever since, Duarte said.

Born in Santo Domingo, Garcia moved to the Bronx when he was 9 and was raised in a large, close-knit extended family, according to Duarte, who on Monday described her fallen grandson as lively and social.

He was an energetic boy who loved sports, she said.

He worked with his mother as a home healthcare attendant and lived with his girlfriend of six years. He leaves behind three children, 5-year-old Anny, 1-year-old Elian, and 2-month old Yadien, his uncle said.

He was a good father, said Victor Garcia.

A memorial for Eliseo Garcia.

Just six days after Garcia crashed, a 47-year-old man died after crashing his moped into a parked car at a Bronx intersection, police said.

James Ferguson was heading south on White Plains Road in Harding Park about 12:40 a.m. Tuesday when he lost control of his gas-powered moped as he made a sharp left toward Soundview Ave.

White Plains Road and Soundview Ave. begin to merge at the point where the crash occurred.

Ferguson struck a parked car and was thrown from his ride, landing on the asphalt. He wasnt wearing a helmet and suffered a massive head injury before dying a short time later at Jacobi Medical Center, cops said.

The victim lived in the Parkchester section of the Bronx, according to cops.
A man who posed as a cosmetic surgeon has been jailed for five years after performing a botched penis enlargement surgery which killed his patient after months of agony.

Bogus medic Torben K. 46, a catering worker from Solingen, Germany, had injected the patient's manhood and scrotum with silicone oil during what was supposed to be a 'girth enhancing' procedure.

Judges in Wuppertal District Court jailed him on August 28 after he was found guilty of causing death by grievous bodily harm.

The 32-year-old victim - not named in court - died of sepsis seven months after the agonising operation in July 2019.

The court heard how the bogus doctor had no medical qualifications and offered his penis enlargement services online.

Bogus medic Torben K. 46 has been jailed for five years after performing a botched penis enlargement surgery which killed his patient

Judges in Wuppertal District Court jailed him on August 28 after he was found guilty of causing death by grievous bodily harm. Pictured: The city of Wuppertal

He reportedly carried out the procedures at his home in Solingen.

READ MORE: Penis enlargement gone wrong: Eye-watering stories of men left suicidal and in agony following 'Frankenstein' surgery that left them misshapen Clinics specialising in such procedures a menu of treatments men seeking a larger package can choose from Advertisement

According to the victim's 29-year-old sister, her brother had doubts about the procedure before Torben K. convinced him to go ahead.

But instead of ending up with a larger member, the victim began having breathing problems as soon as he returned home from the treatment.

He visited several hospitals but died of blood poisoning, as well as liver and kidney failure.

Prosecutors said he spent months in agony in a specialist intensive care unit before his death in February 2020.

Meanwhile, investigations showed that the restaurant worker had also treated a second man with the same life-threatening injections in March this year.

When asked, however, Torben K. refused to reveal the type of silicone oil used in the procedures.

High State Prosecutor Wolf-Tilman Baumert told local media: 'Unfortunately, the silicone oil ended up in the person's bloodstream.

'This led to severe health complications and, eventually, to his death.'

In court, Torben K. claimed that he had only done what the patient asked for.

But Baumert said: 'The fact that the man asked for the treatment is irrelevant from our point of view. The defendant acted in a highly immoral manner.'

The verdict is not yet legally binding.

Liquid silicone injections for genital enlargement have been used for years, despite the risks involved.

Bogus medic Torben K (left), 46, a catering worker from Solingen, Germany, had injected the patient's manhood and scrotum with silicone oil

Wuppertal District Court in North Rhine-Westphalia in Germany (file image)

They work by provoking the body's immune system to react to the foreign substance by forming a thick mass called a granuloma.

This, in theory, increases the size and thickness of the tissue injected, giving men the bigger genitalia they desire.

However, this cosmetic procedure is banned in the UK due to the serious risks involved.

One of the main risks is a condition called siliconoma.

This is where a severe inflammatory reaction to the silicone occurs in the tissues following the injection, which then needs to be removed.

Surgery to excise the silicone is usually the only solution but the damage can often be permanent.
Stranded passengers have been forced to sleep on beds laid out on an airport floor while others have been warned not to travel following an air traffic control glitch that has caused hundreds of flights to be cancelled.

Travellers have said they feel abandoned - with some sleeping on cold airport floors surrounded by cockroaches or without food and water.

Matthew Creed, 26, became stuck at Schiphol Amsterdam Airport yesterday after his flight with KLM Royal Dutch Airlines to Edinburgh was cancelled.

KLM booked him a new flight to Edinburgh departing at 9.50pm today, however, the drama student had to spend the night at the airport while waiting for the flight.

Mr Creed, noting how it was 'not ideal' sleeping on a folding bed with 'pillows and blankets' in the airport, later found out that KLM had booked him a hotel but claims the air carrier failed to inform him of this.

Tens of thousands of airline passengers have been left stranded across Europe after suffering flight cancellations due to the knock-on impact of an air traffic control fault, with some being told they won't be able to get a flight home for a staggering 12 days.

Stranded passengers have been left to sleep on beds laid out on the floor at Schiphol Airport in Amsterdam, Netherlands

Here is a view of the cot, pillow and blanket laid out for traveller Matthew Creed, 26, who became stuck at Schiphol Amsterdam Airport yesterday after his flight with KLM Royal Dutch Airlines to Edinburgh was cancelled

Tens of thousands of airline passengers have been left stranded across Europe after suffering flight cancellations due to the knock-on impact of an ATC fault. Data shows at least 281 flights - including departures and arrivals - were cancelled today at the UK's six busiest airports

Data shows at least 281 flights - including departures and arrivals - were cancelled today at the UK's six busiest airports.

In the meantime, families have scrambled to secure hotel rooms for their unexpectedly prolonged stay, often at inflated prices, paying hundreds of pounds per night.

The boss of the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) confirmed today that passengers can expect to be provided with food and drink as well as accommodation if delayed overnight.

But scores of people reported having to spend the night sleeping on the floor of airports, with many more complaining about the lack of a proper meal.

And consumer champions Which? have now demanded immediate action from the CAA to force airlines to help passengers.

The editor of Which? Travel, Rory Boland, told the Mail: 'We're seeing worrying reports of passengers being left stranded without support, and airlines failing to properly communicate with their passengers or fulfil their legal obligations.

'In particular, travellers should be aware that their airline has a responsibility to reroute them as soon as possible, even if that means buying them a ticket with a rival carrier  a rule that some airlines appear to be ignoring.

'Passengers should also be given food and refreshments and overnight accommodation if required.'

He added: 'Passengers understand that this is not an issue caused by airlines, but are frustrated by the poor communication and lack of care they receive from carriers.

'During travel crises we see repeat offending from airlines looking to wriggle out of their legal responsibilities knowing that they're unlikely to face any real consequences for leaving passengers high and dry during periods of disruption.'

Mr Boland said the CAA should 'stand ready to take enforcement action against any airline found to be failing in its responsibilities to passengers'.

Mr Creed, who worked in Hong Kong for three years, was initially flying from the former British city to Edinburgh with a stopover in Doha on Qatar Airways.

He had planned to see his family in Scotland before beginning his master's degree in drama in London.

When he arrived in Hong Kong, Qatar Airways informed him that his ticket was on standby. Upon arrival in Doha, he was notified that he did not have a seat on the flight to Edinburgh, which was 'nerve-racking' for him.

Qatar then transferred him on a KLM flight to Amsterdam - he arrived at 3am on Monday only to discover the Dutch airliner had cancelled his next flight to Edinburgh.

'(I) got to Amsterdam about three o'clock yesterday, waiting for the next flight about 4.50am, and then realised there was a massive queue in the middle of the airport,' he recalled.

Are YOU stranded at an airport? Email: eirian.prosser@dailymail.co.uk

Matthew Creed (pictured) said it was 'not ideal' sleeping on a folding bed with 'pillows and blankets' in the airport. He later found out that KLM had booked him a hotel but claims the air carrier failed to inform him of this

Matthew Creed paid for access to KLM's Crown Lounges at Amsterdam Airport in order to have a shower and eat some food, with the hope of being reimbursed for the cost. Pictured are travellers preparing to sleep in the airport yesterday

'People were heading towards the exit or towards desks for KLM, who were operating the flight that Qatar had put me on. Then I looked at the board and realised my flight was cancelled.'

He said: 'They were helping people for a long amount of time, there were long queues, and there were only four or five agents trying to help people.

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'Then they just kind of said we're closing all of their desks and everybody needs to find their own accommodation or find out their own way to sort things out.

'We heard that there was a gate at the end of the airport where they were putting out pillows and blankets and things, so that's where we had to sleep last night... which wasn't ideal.'

Mr Creed paid for access to KLM's Crown Lounges at Amsterdam Airport in order to have a shower and eat some food, with the hope of being reimbursed for the cost.

He was informed by KLM the next morning that it had booked a hotel for him.

He said: 'I was told, actually, we had a hotel booked for you last night, why didn't you stay there?

'I said, nobody has emailed me and let me know... I wasn't able to speak to someone because all the desks were closed.

'So I stayed in the airport for no reason.'

Earlier today Ryanair boss Michael O'Leary said he is still waiting for an explanation for bank holiday Monday's flight chaos more than 24 hours after the ATC failure threw British travel into chaos.

Mr O'Leary hit out at Nats for failing to provide answers as to what crippled its system for several hours on Monday.

'We still haven't had an explanation from them, what exactly caused this failure yesterday and where were their back-up systems,' Mr O'Leary said in a video posted on X, formerly known as Twitter.

Another disrupted passenger, Michael McDonnell, a 28-year-old consultant from London, became stranded in Berlin with his partner Sarah, 28, for three nights after their British Airways flight was cancelled.

The consultant was meant to fly to Heathrow Airport from Berlin Brandenburg Airport at 9.20am on Monday before his flight was cancelled.

He said he received 'very little communication' from the British airliner before being notified that he and his partner had been rebooked on a flight leaving on August 31, stranding them for three nights.

'They told us we need to give them a call to change and rebook our flight online, but we couldn't get access online because the website wasn't working,' Mr McDonnell said.

'We couldn't call them as their line was too busy and then it would hang up.

Another disrupted passenger, Michael McDonnell, (pictured) a 28-year-old consultant from London, became stranded in Berlin with his partner Sarah, 28, for three nights after their British Airways flight was cancelled

'We did end up getting through to someone and we got rebooked onto the next flight on Thursday morning.'

The couple returned to the city centre of Berlin and rebooked at a hotel they had previously visited for their bank holiday weekend.

He explained: 'They (British Airways) didn't pay for the hotel, we paid for it. We paid 150 per night for the hotel.'

In a statement, British Airways said: 'Like other airlines operating in the UK, we are continuing to experience the knock-on effects of yesterday's NATS Air Traffic Control issue, which includes unavoidable delays and cancellations.

'Customers travelling today or tomorrow on short-haul services can move their flight to a later date free of charge if they wish, subject to availability.

'We've apologised for the huge inconvenience caused, which was outside of our control and thank our customers for their patience as we work hard to get back on track.'

Schiphol Airport, Qatar Airways and KLM Royal Dutch Airlines have been approached for comment.

Ken Blanks, a 71-year-old from Bristol, said he and his wife had to turn down a 50 per night night hotel in Las Palmas until the next flight in just under two weeks because they cannot afford it.

He blasted easyJet for not offering them anywhere to stay and not communicating with them, telling The Sun: 'I've finished my holiday in Gran Canaria but there's nobody from easyJet talking to us. They don't care a damn about us.

'The next flight is in 12 days so we are stuck here. The airport offered some families with kids hotels but they have to keep getting taxis there and back. It's 200 euros from the airport to the hotel. No one has the money for it. I can't afford a hotel. And there's nobody here to tell us anything.'

This evening easyJet announced it would run five repatriation flights to Gatwick following ATC fault. Flights will be offered from Palma and Faro tomorrow, and Tenerife and Enfidha on Thursday August 31 and from Rhodes on Friday September 1.

Larger aircrafts will also be used by the airline over the coming days on key routes including Faro, Ibiza, Dalaman and Tenerife to provide some additional 700 seats.

Stranded travellers reported having to pay hundreds of pounds for last-minute hotels - if they were lucky enough to get a room, with thousands of families, including some with babies, being forced to sleep on airport floors

Katrina Harrison and her family - including one-year-old twin grandchildren - stayed at Leeds Bradford Airport after their flight to Antalya was cancelled on Monday afternoon.

Ms Harrison, from Stockton-on-Tees, said: 'We were given a bottle of water, a KitKat and a packet of crisps but no proper food. Apparently some people have got vouchers but we haven't been given any.

'All the shops sold out of food and drink last night. We weren't given a blanket, we've been absolutely freezing.

'There were no hotels to stay in, we couldn't get the car out of the car park.

'We haven't slept, we tried to sleep on the floor but couldn't. Luckily the children could sleep in the pram.

'The holiday was supposed to be a family celebration of a few things. We've spent 12,000 on it and we've been treated like muck.

'We're hoping to get on a flight tonight but if it doesn't happen tonight we'll have to go home. We can't keep sitting here with the babies.'

Meanwhile, a couple face a race against time to save their dream Italian wedding amid the chaos.

Adam Ashall-Kelly, 35, and his fiancee Christine Marriott, 36, had their flight from Manchester to Verona cancelled on Monday, just days before they tie the knot near Lake Garda on Saturday.

However, the bride and groom-to-be need to register their marriage at a local court before they can be legally wed - and while they have managed to book on to a flight to Milan on Wednesday, they have 'no idea' whether that too will be cancelled, the BBC reports.

People at Palma de Mallorca airport waiting to board a flight, two days after dozens of flights were cancelled due to storm Betty

Tourists are stuck waiting at Palma de Mallorca airport just days after dozens of fights were cancelled due to storm Betty

Mal Dolby revealed how his son and three grandchildren are stuck in Bodrum airport in Turkey. He told MailOnline: 'Easyjet are saying they can't help, have offered no food or drink and told them the earliest flight back to Luton is not for 12 days.

'They have no money, no one is helping them.'

Meanwhile, holidaymakers arriving at Manchester Airport today revealed how they were only told their flight had been cancelled at the boarding gate.

Mental health worker Elisha Mullaney had booked a flight to Corfu with Jet2.

The 41-year-old said: 'I received a text from Jet2 telling me to arrive as normal. We checked in our bags and went through security only to be told at the gate it was one of five flights to be cancelled.

'It is very annoying and they must have known well in advance. It's my son's 16th birthday today, which makes it worse.

'I tried to find alternative flights so we could still go but it was going to cost us 600 a ticket. The flight price had increased so much.

'I'm just hoping we will get our money back and we can find something else quickly.'

Elisha, from Manchester, was going on a week's holiday with her son Alex Ogden.

Mary Byrne, who was also on the same flight, said: 'I don't understand why Jet2 can't just delay the flight.

'They made us go all the way through the checking in process knowing they was no chance of us boarding and departing.

'I thought everything with air traffic control would have been sorted by now. We are really disappointed.'

Kirstie Rowley, 52, a payroll and finance officer from Rochdale, was also travelling to Corfu on the 7.30am flight.

Kirstie Rowley, 52, a payroll and finance officer from Rochdale (pictured with Barbara and Chris Rowley), was also travelling to Corfu on the 7.30am flight

Builder Ashley Weaver, 35, waited three hours for his luggage at Birmingham Airport after he and his family flew home from a 12,000 holiday in Orlando, Florida

A screenshot shows the lack of flights available to passengers still stranded in Palma

She said: 'We expected to be delayed with what we had seen on the news but we did think we would get away.

'We had checked in, found ourselves a comfortable spot to wait and got a round of drinks. Then we were told the flight had been cancelled.

'I'm going to have to go back into work tomorrow because if I don't I won't have enough days left to take later. I've already lost one day.

'We were supposed to be meeting friends out in Corfu so I'm going to have to let them know.

'We are going to try to get out later in the week and extend the holiday if the hotel is available.'

READ MORE - Terrifying footage from plane flying through Mallorca storm shows passengers screaming and crying as extreme turbulence causes some to vomit Advertisement

Barbara Rowley, who is retired and in her 70s, said: 'We've just tried to get a taxi home and were told it would cost 87. Only a few hours ago it was 40.

'It is wrong. Everyone is trying to make a quick buck and cash in on what is happening. I am fed up and have been looking forward to this holiday.'

Chris Rowley, 51, a sheet metal worker, said: 'It is always chaos over the bank holiday weekend. Something always seems to happen to cause delays and cancellations.

'I am gutted because I've worked seven days a week for the past two weeks to get in front with my work because I knew I was going away.

'Why did they make us go through security if they were just going to cancel the flight?

'We have spent a lot of money already and all we have done is spend a few hours in the airport. I just hope we can fly out later in the week.'

One family of five from Manchester, stranded in Paris, revealed how it wasn't just flights that were booked up, but they were unable to get on Eurostar or even ferry services from Calais to return home.

Instead, they ended up paying 300 to hire a car and drive three hours to Caen on Monday night, staying in a 150 hotel, before boarding a ferry crossing back to the UK today.

Jo Winter told MailOnline: 'Honestly it has been a nightmare and it's still not over as once on ferry tomorrow we have somehow got to figure out how to get from Portsmouth to Manchester.

Mary Byrne, pictured with Alex Ogden and Eiisha Mullaney was told her flight to Corfu was cancelled at the last minute

Adam Ashall-Kelly, 35, and his fiancee Christine Marriott, 36, had their flight from Manchester to Verona cancelled on Monday, just days before they tie the knot near Lake Garda on Saturday

Jo Winter and her children (pictured) ended up paying 300 to hire a car and drive three hours to Caen on Monday night, staying in a 150 hotel, before boarding a ferry crossing back to the UK today

Many passengers were forced to sleep on the floor due to a shortage of hotel rooms

'This is our first abroad trip in four years and what was a lovely four day trip to Paris and Disneyland has ended in a extremely stressful situation.

'Although not easyJet's fault I will have my doubts to ever use them again as they provided no help or assistance - the ground staff just didn't want to know.'

Sports journalist Tim Adams is enduring a similar, convoluted journey, spending the best part of 400 on getting back to the UK.

He has travelled from Budapest to Munich today, where he will then set off for Paris tomorrow.

A lack of Eurostar trains means he will have to stay in the French capital overnight before finally returning to London on Thursday evening.

'I was told at the airport yesterday that the next flight to the UK from Budapest was on Thursday,' he said.

'I saw the notification [about cancellations] literally five minutes upon arriving at the airport. There was no to little information provided at the airport and I only found out our flight got cancelled via the Ryanair app as it wasn't signalled in the airport.

'Even two hours after it had been officially cancelled, the board at the airport still stated 'delayed'.'

Jo Winter was enjoying her first family holiday with her three children (pictured) in four years before the chaos unfolded

Passengers queue up at 3.48am this morning at Manchester Airport's Terminal One

Passengers queue for check-in in the car park at Manchester Airport's Terminal One

At least four flights were expected to depart yesterday for Manchester Airport and Leeds and Bradford Airport but all were cancelled.

Jamie Sedman, 33, from York, told how he and his partner constructed makeshift beds from the Jet2 stands and a crate for their three children aged fifteen, nine and six, after being forced to spend the night in the airport.

He raged today: 'I will never fly Jet2 again. It's just been appalling. I've spent over 3,000 on this holiday and we had to sleep on the airport floor. We want something back for this.

'Jet2 didn't offer us anything. We had to force them to give us one blanket for the five of us and they didn't want to give us that because they said other people hadn't given the blankets back. They should have put us in a hotel.

'They couldn't tell us anything and said we knew more than them because we got an email to say the flight had been cancelled when we were waiting in the airport. 'That was when the staff in departures were still saying our plane was on its way and was in the sky. There was no communication between anyone.'

Lorry driver Jamie was told that his Jet2 flight to Leeds and Bradford Airport was due to depart four different times but was still waiting to be checked-in.

'We got to the airport three hours before our flight,' he added.

'The thing that really annoys me the most is no one knew what was going on. The reps at the hotel were appalling, I've never known anything like it. Ryanair kept people in their hotels.

'Jet2 staff said the cancellation was because of the weather, not the air traffic problems, but they're saying that because they can't be blamed if it's down to the weather.

'There were about five hundred people here last night all waiting for four different flights which were cancelled. They told us they'd put us up in accommodation but we had to sleep on the floor. 'They didn't even give us a bottle of water.'

He and his family were later given a ten euro voucher for a coffee shop.

Jamie said: 'I've spent a fortune on food and drinks in the airport. Burger King and WHSmith didn't take the voucher, none of the places I went to would accept it.'

Uel O'Neill and Rachel O'Neill have had to spend 4,000 on a new Jet2 flight for this Sunday to get to Belfast with their children Tilly, 7, Sam, 8, and James, five, after their Easyjet flight was cancelled today

Mandy Calvert (right), 57, from Guisborough and her friend Shauna Smith (left), 32, from Middlesbrough both had to endure a night in the airport without any sleep

Mandy Calvert, 57, from Guisborough and her friend Shauna Smith, 32, from Middlesbrough both had to endure a night in the airport without any sleep.

Mandy said: 'Jet2 have treated us with no dignity. We've had no sleep at all and just sat on our wet towels on the floor. Other people were sleeping on the floor and seats. I feel so sorry for people with little kids.

'Jet2 staff were just stepping over people sleeping on the floor. They've shown no compassion and just hid in their office.'

The friends had a three-night break in Cala Mayor and were dreading having to spend another night in the airport for their flight back to Leeds and Bradford Airport. We've been awake that long we feel faint,' said Shauna tearfully.

'There's no back-up plan, we've been through Covid and ash clouds. There's no shower facilities here and everyone is just laying around on the floor. It's been degrading to be fair.

'I don't feel able to drive from the airport when we do get back because I've had no sleep. My mum is going to meet us at the airport and drive my car, whenever we get home.

'Even trying to get hold of people on the phone has been a nightmare as there's only two or three plugs in the airport and everyone's fighting over them to charge their phones.'

They were each given a 10 euro voucher but explained it could only be used in a coffee shop which didn't sell proper food, just pastries.

Andy Bolton 42, Sandra Bolton 38, Lucie May Bolton, 7, and Jagger Bolton, 5, from Tarleton in Lancs give their experience the thumbs -down

Mike Pritchard, 40, a self-employed joiner from North Wales (pictured with his family), said: 'We arrived at the airport this morning but have been told our flight is going to be tomorrow. They said it was because of the air traffic problems. So I'm having to pay for a hotel for the night. I can't do anything about it, it is what it is.'

Shauna who started crying out of sheer frustration at the situation said: 'We've been here since 5.50pm yesterday. We're tired and emotional. We weren't offered any accommodation last night, not even a blanket or a pillow.'

When they asked about their flight they were told it was delayed due to technical issues.

'We've been told four different flight times. The staff are telling us different stories. There's no communication between anyone.'

Chris Manning, 42, from Shropshire, was told his Jet2 flight to Manchester would be at 12.15pm. His family-of-four, comprising two children aged five and eleven, were told that there was no issue when they arrived at the airport.

He said today: 'We've been here since 8am. We checked in and had gone through security. But we're stuck at the airport because our cases have gone through and we've been told we can't leave the airport. We're waiting to get our cases back and we've booked into a hotel for the night. It's cost 230 for the hotel and we don't know how much we can claim back, but we haven't got a choice.'

A father and his three children who had been holidaying in Alcudia were also left stranded at the airport.

Mike Pritchard, 40, a self-employed joiner from North Wales, said: 'We arrived at the airport this morning but have been told our flight is going to be tomorrow. They said it was because of the air traffic problems. So I'm having to pay for a hotel for the night. I can't do anything about it, it is what it is.'

Uel O'Neill and Rachel O'Neill have had to spend 4,000 on a new Jet2 flight for this Sunday to get to Belfast with their children Tilly, 7, Sam, 8, and James, five, after their Easyjet flight was cancelled today.

Mr O'Neill, 48, who said he wanted to swear but his 'children were present' raged: 'I've had to spend another 4,000 on a new flight to get back and it's also going to cost me for the hotel for another five nights'

'The kids are all going to miss their first week back at school.'

Easyjet didn't offer them a food voucher, water or accommodation and Jet2 was the quickest option to get back to Belfast, he added.

Passengers stranded overnight at London Gatwick Airport are pictured this morning

Scenes at Manchester Airport early this morning as queues build up at Terminal One

Passengers stranded overnight at London Gatwick Airport are pictured this morning

Passengers queue up at 4.20am this morning at Manchester Airport's Terminal Two

Company director Andy Bolton, 42, from Tarleton in Lancashire, travelling with wife Sandra, 38, and children Lucie May, seven and Jagger, five, said: 'We boarded the plane at 11.20am yesterday and we were sat on the plane without moving for seven hours with a five-year-old and a seven-year old.

'When we first got on the crew didn't tell us anything, then they said there was a problem with London air traffic. They said there was a 10-hour delay after sitting on the plane for seven hours and now it was only two.

'We got a glass of water each which we didn't have to pay for. But we had to buy other food and drinks and they were running out of food and juice for the kids. By the time they got to my aisle there wasn't much left.

'There were lots of kids onboard, a pregnant woman and another woman with a baby sat on her knee for seven hours.'

READ MORE: Olympian Steve Backley is stranded amid air traffic chaos Advertisement

Andy explained that the crew told them that if the flight was delayed any longer they would go out of hours and be unable to fly them back.

He added: 'That's when they kicked us off the plane. They told us a transfer would be waiting for us to take us to a hotel and we'd be brought back the next day for our flight.

'We walked off the plane and three Jet2 staff looked at us and said 'why are you getting off the plane'? They didn't even know we were coming back into the airport.

'All the passengers had to wait a further three-and-a-half hours for their luggage to be offloaded

'Then we were told that we had to get our own hotel and transfer because Jet2 couldn't get a hotel for all of us.'

Andy had thought ahead and booked a hotel and sent his family there whilst he waited for their luggage.

But some people weren't as lucky. 'One woman left without her luggage to stay in a hotel, she had no milk for her baby as the shops were all closed and the baby had to cry itself to sleep,' he said.

'Another woman in her sixties had to sleep on the airport floor.

'Other passengers were taken to a hotel for two hours to wash. It was absolute chaos in the hotel apparently.'

The passengers were told that their flight would depart today at 5.05pm but at 4pm local time were still waiting in departures.

At Heathrow, passengers revealed how they had to make last minute changes to their travel plans following the air traffic control chaos.

Steven Williams, 26 said that he was initially due to fly to Brussels on Sunday from Stansted on a budget airline.

But after the flight was cancelled, he travelled down to London, had to stay overnight in a hotel and then booked on Brussels Airline.

He said: 'It's cost me another 400 for the hotel and new flight but there's not much I can do about it because I have to be at work this evening. I was only on a short visit to the UK and I wish I hadn't come.

'I don't understand how, in this day and age, the air traffic IT system could collapse like this? It's a joke and it's ruined things for a lot of us.'

Passengers stranded overnight at London Gatwick Airport are pictured this morning

Passengers queue for check-in at Manchester Airport's Terminal Two this morning

Ray Edwards, 58 from Essex had his flight to Denver cancelled yesterday.

He said: 'I had to book a hotel near Heathrow but luckily my flight is going out today. I don't understand why there's always some kind of travel chaos in Britain when there's a bank holiday?

'The hotels around the airport put their prices up and I hope the airline are going to refund me because it wasn't cheap.'

Elsewhere, Alexandra Williamson, 45, from Birmingham, was due to fly to visit her daughter in Prague when her flight was cancelled at the last minute.

The chaos meant she was forced to fly to Germany before catching a connecting flight to Prague.

The mum-of-one said: 'My flight was cancelled one hour before I flew. The airline booked us in the hotel, we had to wait for six hours for the hotel, but then there were more delays as people were waiting for the rooms.

'Now I've had to fly to Frankfurt, and then wait to get to Prague. I've had to fly to Germany with Lufthansa.

'I've only been here to see my daughter for a quick weekend. I had to call work and rearrange everything.

Holidaymakers have been warned not to travel where possible with the chaos set to last for several days, despite the seven-hour 'network failure' that left passengers stranded in airports

Pictured: Mandy Calvert sleeping at the airport in Palma last night

Delayed holidaymakers slept on the floor at the airport in Palma yesterday

'You didn't know what was going to happen. At Birmingham they kept us in a queue. It was scary.

'I finally flew to Frankfurt this morning and I will be in Prague about 2pm. I'm really not sure what to think, it was really messy.

'If someone told us before, a few hours before, but it was only an hour. It was really stressful.

'We didn't know what was going to happen. It was stressful, finding people to ask. We didn't know what's going to happen. We found one lady and she helped us.'

Nick and Gemma Furlong were forced to wait seven hours in Gran Canaria Airport with their one-year-old daughter after their flight was cancelled.

Nick said: 'We were waiting for about seven hours for our flight back to Birmingham.

'The most frustrating part was not knowing how long it would be and all the flights before ours that were waiting a while and were cancelled.

'We've got a one-year-old with us and think the most challenging part in the airport was that there was nothing open.

'We're there during the night with no food or drink or anything to keep us occupied or refreshed.

'I think it would have been a lot easier in the daytime with facilities. It was very frustrating.

'We flew from Gran Canaria. It was during the middle of the night, but we set off at quarter to four in the morning.'

Builder Ashley Weaver, 35, waited three hours for his luggage at Birmingham Airport after he and his family flew home from a 12,000 holiday in Orlando, Florida.

The married fater-of-two, from Smethwick, said: 'There was a baggage delay of three hours. It got quite heated between Tui and Birmingham Airport. One of the representatives for Tui had to leave. They didn't give any explanation for it.

'We saw the delays from the air traffic control. We were willing to be stuck in the airport.

'For baggage, if we left we couldn't get back in. We couldn't get food. My holiday was end to end was 12,000 but that's a not small amount of money.

'There was no real reason for the delay. The airport just said it's not our fault.'

Several passengers at East Midlands Airport booked overnight hotel stays at short notice due to the air traffic control disruption, in the hope they can depart on Tuesday.

Cancelled flights are displayed on a departures board at Stansted Airport

Passengers at Stansted faced long waits today for more information on their flights

Michael and Chloe Kennedy, from Meath in the Republic of Ireland, were due to fly home on Monday after attending a festival but their flight cancellation meant they have had to take unpaid leave to cover the extra day and do not know whether they will be compensated.

Mr Kennedy said: 'We queued for ages to leave our bags and just as we got to the front it was on our phones that the flight was cancelled.

'It was chaotic, (staff) were trying their best in there but a lot of people were not happy.

'Eventually we just left and booked a space in a hotel.'

Mrs Kennedy added: 'Our flight was at 8pm and we were not told until 6.30pm, but we were lucky that we had not put our bag through security as some people were not allowed back through because of the risk, staff said.

'They had to return duty free items and things, it was all a bit mad.'

Angela Sykes, from Nottingham, is due to travel on the 11.25am Ryanair flight to Dublin on Tuesday, which remains scheduled to depart on time, with her family for four days.

She said: 'The first we heard about the issues was this morning when we put the radio on.

'It's our first holiday since November - it means we'll be sat in the airport a little bit but I don't care, I'm going away.

'We heard the radio and said, 'Oh well, we will go the airport and if we get there, we get there' - we like to go with the flow. There is nothing to worry about on the app but we will soon find out.'

Frustrated passengers wait at Stansted Airport for more information on their flights amid the chaos

Passengers wait at Stansted Airport, north of London, on August 29, 2023 after UK flights were delayed over a technical issu

The Government was working with airlines today to help ensure passengers stranded in airports across Europe can get home.

More than 1,500 flights were cancelled yesterday when air traffic controllers were forced to switch to manual systems due to a technical problem. That left thousands of passengers stuck at airports in Europe and further afield.

Mark Harper, the transport secretary, warned it would take days to resolve the issues, even though the fault was fixed after a few hours yesterday. The cancellations hit airline schedules, meaning planes and crews were out of place.

In his statement today Ryanair boss Michael O'Leary said: 'It's not acceptable that UK NATS simply allow their computer systems to be taken down and everybody's flights get cancelled.'

Speaking from the airline's operations centre at Dublin Airport, Mr O'Leary went on: 'We've had a very difficult day yesterday due to the UK NATS ATC failure.

'I'm sad to report that we had to cancel about 250 flights affecting the flights of about 40,000 passengers because of long delays to flight plans, crews running out of hours.

'Last night we had 20 aircraft that couldn't get back to their home bases so they're out of place for today.

'Today, unfortunately, it looks like we're going to cancel about another 70 flights.

'That's a very small number out of the 3,200 flights we're planning but that doesn't mean we're not doing everything we possibly can to try to minimise the disruption for our passengers and their families.'

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said he understood people were frustrated, adding that Transport Secretary Mark Harper would be talking with airlines about their responsibilities to passengers.

'The transport secretary is in constant dialogue with all the industry participants. He will be talking to airlines specifically later today and making sure that they support passengers to get home as quickly as possible,' Mr Sunak said.

Mr Harper chaired a meeting today with NATS, the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), airlines, airports, trade bodies and Border Force. He said the government will be reviewing a report from NATS in the coming days.

He said government officials did not believe the technical problem, the first on this scale for a decade, was the result of a cyber attack.

More than 1,500 flights were cancelled yesterday when air traffic controllers were forced to switch to manual systems due to a technical problem. That left thousands of passengers stuck at airports in Europe and further afield. Pictured: Passengers stuck at Heathrow Airport today

The transport secretary warned it would take days to resolve the issues, even though the fault was fixed after a few hours yesterday. Pictured: Passengers at Heathrow Airport as disruption from air traffic control issues continued today

Aviation analytics firm Cirium said 790 flights departing British airports were cancelled and 785 flights due to arrive were cancelled yesterday, meaning just over a quarter of all flights into or out of the country were affected. Pictured: Travellers at Heathrow Airport today

Aviation analytics firm Cirium said 790 flights departing British airports were cancelled and 785 flights due to arrive were cancelled yesterday, meaning just over a quarter of all flights into or out of the country were affected.

British Airways said it was working hard 'to get back on track' and had offered passengers flying short-haul routes to change their flight dates free of charge.

EasyJet said that the knock-on impact meant some flights were cancelled on Tuesday morning.

Heathrow Airport, Britain's busiest hub, told passengers to contact their airline before travelling to the airport.

A Jet2 spokesman said: 'Due to the technical fault that affected the UK's National Air Traffic Services, which has impacted all airlines, Jet2.com flights departing and returning to the UK are expected to experience significant delays.

'Our teams are working incredibly hard to communicate with, and look after, our customers and they will continue to do so.

'As a result of the disruption, we took the decision to cancel some outbound flights scheduled Monday 28th August and Tuesday 29th August. We have contacted all affected customers to let them know, and they will of course receive a full refund. We are extremely sorry to have to take this decision however the ATC disruption left us with no other choice.

'Customers due to travel should travel to the airport as normal unless we advise otherwise and continue to monitor Flight Information on our website.

'For customers due to return to the UK, our teams are working tirelessly to provide hotel accommodation and we will be adding extra flights on top of our scheduled programme to bring our customers' home.

'We would of course like to apologise to everyone that is affected by this situation, which is unfortunately completely outside of our control, and await the outcome of the CAA National Air Traffic Services investigation into what happened.'
What are my rights as a passenger?

If your flight is cancelled, you should be offered an alternative flight or mode of transport. If you do not want to accept this or if no alternative can be offered, you will be entitled to a full refund.

If your flight is delayed, you will be entitled to assistance, the extent of which depends on the distance of your flight and how long youre delayed.

If your flight is short-haul (up to 925 miles  for example UK to Spain) and is delayed for two or more hours, you will be entitled to:

Two free phone calls, faxes or emails

Free meals and refreshments appropriate to the delay

Free hotel accommodation and hotel transfers if an overnight stay is required.

Thousands of flights have been disrupted following a technical fault at National Air Traffic Services (NATS) on Monday

If your flight is cancelled, you should be offered an alternative flight or mode of transport. If you do not want to accept this or if no alternative can be offered, you will be entitled to a full refund, says consumer rights lawyer DEAN DUNHAM

But passengers caught up in the chaos are unlikely to qualify for compensation given that the cause was outside airlines' control

For flights between 932 miles and 2,175 miles (for example UK to Greece) you will be entitled to the above assistance if you are delayed for three or more hours and for all other flights if you are delayed for four or more hours.

If your flight is delayed for more than five hours, you will be entitled to choose between being rerouted on a different flight or getting a refund, just as if your flight had been cancelled.

The same rights apply if your flight has been cancelled if you have chosen to accept the airlines offer of rerouting.

Can I claim for other out of pocket expenses?

It is possible to claim for other expenses, such as a missed night of pre-booked accommodation, a missed event such as a concert or a missed day of car rental, under a law called the Montreal Convention.

However, many airlines reject these claims meaning you will usually have to take your claim to court or to an alternative dispute resolution provider, if the airline is subscribed to one of the two approved Alternative Dispute Resolution schemes, the CEDR or AviationADR.

What compensation can I expect?

The applicable law (known as EU261, UK261 in the UK) provides that passengers are entitled to compensation for a flight that arrives at its final destination three or more hours late or is cancelled with less than 14 days notice prior to the date of departure.

However, when the cause of the delay or cancellation is outside of the airlines control and there were no steps it could have taken to avoid the delay/cancellation - commonly referred to as extraordinary circumstances- the law says the airline does not have to pay compensation. This is the situation with this weeks crisis as the cause is clearly outside of the control of the airlines.

Passengers look at information screens at London Stansted Airport

I'm booked on a package holiday, what can I do?

Firstly, if your flight is cancelled, do not reject an offer of rerouting as this could jeopardise any claim you may have in relation to your package holiday. You should contact your holiday provider and ask what it can do for you. You should also investigate your travel insurance to see if you can make a claim for the time you will have lost on your holiday.

What is 'reasonably priced' accommodation?

Unfortunately, the applicable law does not define reasonable. However, it is established that hotel accommodation should be the cheapest most appropriate available, rather than luxury accommodation.

So, even if you have a first-class ticket, you will not be entitled to a book a night at the luxury equivalent of the Savoy hotel if you are delayed overnight; you will instead be expected to book into a budget hotel such as a Premier Inn.

Can I offer to pay double the ticket price to guarantee a seat?

This will be a matter for the individual airlines to determine as the law does not provide this right.

Customers stranded overnight will be expected to book 'reasonably priced' accommodation to be reimbursed for it

I cannot get a flight home from France for five days - am I entitled to ask the airline to pay for the train fare home?

When a flight is cancelled, the airline has a legal obligation to take reasonable steps to find you an alternative way home (commonly referred to as rerouting).

This does not mean only exploring other flights it has scheduled but also flights with other airlines and even alternative modes of transport, including rail. However, some airlines will argue they have no obligation to reimburse train costs in these circumstances, which I disagree with, so it is worth trying to agree this before incurring the expense.

My airline will fly me back to the UK but not to the airport where my car is parked - can I claim for transport to pick it up?

Yes airlines have a legal obligation to get you back to the airport you are booked to fly to. If they take you to an alternative airport you will be entitled to be reimbursed for the cost of getting back to the original airport you should have been taken to.

However, word of warning, expenses must always be reasonable so you will not be reimbursed for a limousine but will be reimbursed for a taxi.

Also, if the airline organises transport via a bus, it may deny an expenses claim if you decide to take a taxi instead, unless there was good reason for doing this.

Departure screens at Heathrow Terminal 5 showed some cancelled flights on Tuesday

Accommodation for our family until our flight home at the weekend is going to cost a fortune - is there a rule about how quickly the airline has to reimburse a customer?

Reimbursement of expenses should be swift and, in any event, within 7-14 days. However, it is rare that airlines reimburse this quickly and when they dont there is not a great deal that can done as the regulator (The Civil Aviation Authority) rarely takes any enforcement action in this area.

I'm a key worker - are airlines bound to

AIRLINES should prioritise vulnerable passengers so it is important to notify the airline if you are vulnerable. There is no requirement to prioritise key workers, although if you inform your airline that you are a key worker it may take a policy decision to prioritise you.
Two women have been jailed for torturing and killing an ex-soldier's African grey parrot after a boozy night out.

Nicola Bradley, 35, and Tracy Dixon, 47, doused Paul Crooks's beloved pet Sparky in cleaning products and put her in a tumble drier before breaking her neck.

They were jailed on Tuesday for 25 months at Carlisle Crown Court after previously being found guilty of causing unnecessary suffering to a protected animal.

Magistrates previously heard Mr Crooks cried after the death of the bird, which would entertain him with renditions of the national anthem and the Coronation Street theme tune.

Prosecutor Daniel Bramhall told today's sentencing hearing the cruel pair daubed the bird with gloss paint and covered her with shaving foam and Mr Muscle polish.

Nicola Bradley (left), 35, and Tracy Dixon (right), 47, doused Paul Crooks's beloved pet Sparky in cleaning products and put her in a tumble drier before breaking her neck

They then threw her into a switched on tumble drier before one of them - said in court to have been Bradley - snapped its neck.

As they left the house where they did this, they told Sparky's unsuspecting owner they'd been 'wetting themselves' with laughter,' though they did not say why.

Judge Richard Archer told the two women: 'You together sadistically tortured and essentially killed Sparky.

'The way in which suffering was caused to that animal is shocking.

'It involved spraying her with cleaning products; it involved daubing paint on her; and it involved hitting her with a tea towel.

'It involved placing her in a tumble drier and turning it on and it involved, once the door to the tumbler drier was opened and Sparky was gasping for her last breath, one of you ringing her neck.'

The women made no effort to explain to Mr Crooks why they had done what they did and they sought to blame each other, the court heard.

Jack Troupe, for Bradley, said she maintained her denial of wrongdoing.

Anthony Parkinson, for Dixon, said character references referred to her having a more kindly attitude to animals than the offending suggested.

She had taken in rescue animals and cared for them in the past, the barrister told the court.

The judge added: 'It is frankly beyond comprehension how anyone could treat an animal in this way, let alone in your case, Miss Dixon, someone who it is said took in animals, rescue animals, subjected to suffering at the hands of others.'

Mr Crooks cried after the death of the bird, which would entertain him with renditions of the national anthem and the Coronation Street theme tune. Picture: file image

Mr Parkinson went on: 'She maintains that her co-defendant was the primary offender in this case but she accepts the verdict of the magistrates court.'

During the trial before Magistrates, Mr Crooks described his horror at finding Sparky dead shortly after Bradley and Dixon left his home on July 30 last year.

He'd allowed the women, who had enjoyed a boozy night out together in Carlisle, Cumbria, to stay at his home after giving them a lift from the city centre.

Describing his pet, Mr Crooks said Sparky was a gift from a former partner and had lived with him for five years.

They all loved her and looked forward to seeing her, he said. Since his bird was killed, he had suffered panic attacks and sleepless nights.

He said of Sparky: 'She used to sing a regimental march, combined with God Save the Queen, and the Coronation Street and Emmerdale theme tunes.

'She was a hit with friends as she'd start singing when I talked to them on video calls around the world.'

He told the court that Dixon called him at 5.30am on the morning in question as they couldn't get a taxi home from a night out.

He gave them a lift, but went to bed shortly after bringing the women home because he'd been working all week. The women were drunk, he said.

When he woke at 8.30am and went to the kitchen to make a coffee, Bradley told him he would be 'foaming' with them as she looked towards Sparky's cage.

Judge Archer said he had seen the photo of Sparky after she was killed, in which she was 'unrecognisable.'

He added: 'This is a case where appropriate punishment can only be achieved by immediate custody.

'If an immediate prison sentence were not warranted or required for the deliberate, sadistic torture to death of an animal, then one can not imagine a case where it would be appropriate to impose an immediate custodial sentence.'
Tory MP Sir Iain Duncan Smith has said he backs the 'blade runners' who are vandalising ULEZ cameras.

Usually he prides himself on being tough on crime, but the former cabinet minister said today he was 'happy' for the residents of his Chingford and Woodford Green constituency to destroy cameras because they have been 'lied to'.

Sir Iain said: 'A lot of people in my constituency have been cementing up the cameras or putting plastic bags over them.

'I am happy for them to do it because they are facing an imposition that no-one wants and they have been lied to about it.

'The actions you are seeing show how angry people are at what is being imposed on therm. Sadiq Khan has gerrymandered all the information  people have had enough.'

Tory MP Sir Iain Duncan Smith (pictured) has said he backs vandals who are destroying ULEZ cameras

Pictured is a vandalised ULEZ camera in Harefield in the north west London Borough of Hillingdon

Since his comments were first published, Sir Iain told the Evening Standard that I do understand the frustrations of the people in my constituency who are being hit by these charges and who feel like they are not being listened to by the mayor. These sort of actions show how angry people are. But I dont condone law breaking of any kind.'

His comments come as the Transport Secretary has said that the expansion of the ULEZ to all London boroughs is not about air pollution but a 'money-raising exercise'.

Today, London became the world's largest pollution charging area after Ulez was expanded to include the whole of the capital.

People who drive in the zone in a vehicle that does not meet minimum emissions standards are now required to pay a 12.50 daily fee or risk a 180 fine, reduced to 90 if paid within 14 days.

London mayor Sadiq Khan has faced strong opposition to the scheme, although a 160 million scheme run by Transport for London (TfL) enables residents, small businesses, sole traders and charities scrapping non-compliant cars to claim grants.

Speaking on GB News this morning, Mark Harper said he would stop the rollout if he had the power to do so and highlighted his reservations about the true motives behind the expansion.

Meanwhile, in a separate round of interviews, the London mayor denied that extending Ulez was 'anti-car' and accused Mr Harper of 'factual errors'.

On the first day of ULEZ activation in London cameras were already vandalised. Pictured are cameras on Headley Close near Chessington (left) and in Orpington in South East London (right)

The Transport Secretary said: 'I don't have the power to stop it coming into force. That's a decision for the mayor of London backed by the Labour leader. I think he should think again.

'He says this has to do with air quality, his own impact assessment says this will only have a minor to negligible effect on air pollution.

'It's not about air pollution, it's about a money-raising exercise and this is absolutely not the time to be putting all those costs on hard-pressed and hard-working Londoners and those in the area outside London.'

Asked if he would put an end to the expansion if he had the power to do so, Mr Harper said: 'Yes, I don't have the power, though.'

Mr Harper explained on LBC's Nick Ferrari programme that the Government will be backing an amendment to the Levelling-Up and Regeneration Bill to make changes to the 1999 law that created the role of mayor of London.

Under the amendment, brought forward by Tory peer Lord Moylan, London boroughs would be able to opt out of future Transport for London (TfL) clean air schemes if they are meeting air quality targets.

The Transport Secretary said: 'One of the problems here is that a number of London local authorities don't support this scheme coming into force, so for the future, we are backing an amendment, a backbench amendment to a piece of legislation which will mean in future any road user charging schemes like this would have to be also backed by London boroughs.

'And that's important because if you look at the mayor of London's own website for his Project 2030 scheme, he wants to roll out more road user charging schemes, pay-per-mile schemes across London.'

Rejecting some of Mr Harper's claims, Mr Khan told BBC Breakfast: 'I just bumped into Mark Harper as he was leaving the studio and I think he made a couple of factual errors, which is really worth me clarifying.

Damaged cabling hangs from a vandalised ULEZ enforcement camera on August 18 in Orpington

Pictured is a ULEZ camera that was unplugged by vandals in in Orpington

'If this was about making money, I'd have acceded to the demand from the Government to expand the congestion charge much wider than it currently is. That would have been a cash grab, but I said 'no'.

'If it was a cash grab - as the Government is saying - just to raise money, I'd have acceded to their demand to expand the Ulez without proper consultation and a proper scrappage scheme.

'This is about helping our air be cleaner. In a couple of years' time, TfL have predicted there will be no additional money made because the number of non-compliant vehicles (will decrease), but every penny net made is used to reinvest in public transport, improving buses in outer London, improving public transport in our city.'

Speaking on Times Radio, the Labour mayor also ruled out a pay-per-mile scheme while he is in office, adding: 'It's not on the agenda, it's not on the table.

'But it's no secret that the Government, transport officials in London and around the country, have been looking at for some time, in relation to a smarter, streamlined service for a variety of reasons, not least because the Government are worried about fuel revenues drying up over the course of the next few years.

'In fact, Boris Johnson, when he was the mayor of London - remember him? - in his transport strategy there was talk about a pay-per-mile scheme.

'When Rishi Sunak was chancellor he asked his Treasury officials to look into these schemes.

'There's no secrecy around this.'

To comply with Ulez standards, petrol cars must generally have been first registered after 2005, while most diesel cars registered after September 2015 are also exempt from the charge.

TfL says nine out of 10 cars seen driving in outer London on an average day are compliant.

Separate figures obtained by the RAC show more than 690,000 licensed cars in the whole of London are likely to be non-compliant.

This does not take into account other types of vehicles or those which enter London from neighbouring counties.

However, City Hall claims the RAC data is out of date and inaccurate.
The 'crazy plane lady' also hinted at the potential for a tell-all interview

Gomas told the outlet she had a 'little bit of anxiety' about flying again

Tiffany Gomas, 38, was spotted by TMZ Monday at LAX after flying in from Dallas

The woman behind the 'he is not real' airplane video has been spotted flying again - before teasing she is preparing for a tell-all interview.

Tiffany Gomas, 38, first gained notoriety in July after being filmed freaking out and accusing a 'motherf*****' at the back of the plane of being 'not real.'

The 'crazy plane lady' was caught at LAX Monday by TMZ, who asked her about the video and what it was like to be back in an airport after her July outburst.

'Little bit of anxiety but it's been good,' said Gomas, who was seen wearing her now infamous hoop earrings, slicked back hair, and tank top.

Tiffany Gomas, 38, first gained notoriety in July after being filmed freaking out and accusing a 'motherf*****' at the back of the plane of being 'not real'

Gomas, 38, first gained notoriety in July after being filmed freaking out and accusing a 'motherf*****' at the back of the plane of being 'not real'

In the weeks since the video was posted, Gomas has been on a mission to rehab her image as she also experienced a major uptick in social media followers.

'One moment doesn't define you; but it can define your purpose,' she shared on Instagram last week with her nearly 100,000 followers.

In terms of her viral meltdown, the Texas marketing executive played coy and revealed that she could not share too many details on the incident.

'I mean, thanks for asking that,' she said when asked about what she saw. 'But I have been told that I cannot comment on that right now. So, I'm sorry.'

The question asked by TMZ has prevailed among those on social media as many have wondered what exactly Gomas saw that made her flip out.

Later on in the nearly two-minute interaction, the outlet once again asked if she could at least give some insight to her outburst.

The 'crazy plane lady' was caught at LAX Monday by TMZ, who asked her about the video and what it was like to be back in an airport after her July outburst

'Little bit of anxiety but it's been good,' said Gomas, who was seen wearing her now infamous hoop earrings, slicked back hair, and tank top

She refused but did share that something had made her uneasy and that she was committed to getting off the American Airlines flight.

'I was distressed, I was getting off the plane no matter what, I just probably didn't need to make the scene that I made,' she said. 'I was getting off that plane.'

As for when she plans to finally address the viral video and what she saw on the plane, Gomas said plans are in the works for a tell-all interview.

'The rate it's going, I feel like it's going to have to happen. So yes, there will be - there's some things in the works, mostly nonprofit charity stuff,' she shared.

Despite that admission, the now infamous plane passenger said she has done everything she can to avoid the media in the weeks after the incident.

'I've been trying to lay low for the most part but reporters wouldn't let that happen. Like, I was somewhat strong-armed into speaking,' she said.

In mid-August Gomas relaunched her social media career by saying her meltdown doesn't define her alongside glammed up photos

'One moment doesn't define you; but it can define your purpose,' Gomas wrote in an Instagram caption several weeks after her July 2 meltdown on an American Airlines plane

Gomas had been flying to Florida on July 4 weekend when she decided that the plane was unsafe, loudly demanding everyone on the flight evacuate.

Official documents say she was not willing to leave the plane and had to be removed by American Airlines staff following the outburst.

After the video went viral, the Texas resident gained more than 100,000 followers on social media and launched an effort to recoup her image.

In an apology video posted in early August, Gomas referred to herself as 'the crazy plane lady,' which she called 'her very worst moment.'

She continued: 'As you know, I have been unwilling to speak on the viral video, but I do finally feel that it's time.'

'I apologize and take accountability for my actions, they were uncalled for,' she wrote on Twitter after the video took off.

In August, Gomas spoke with DailyMail.com and called her actions 'unacceptable.'

'Distressed or not, I should have been in control of my emotions, and that was not the case,' Gomas said over the phone.

'My use of profanity was completely unnecessary and I want to apologize to everyone who was on that plane, especially those who had children,' she said.

Gomas's meltdown was caught on video last month when she frantically demanded to get off a plane, claiming someone in the back of the aircraft was 'not real'

Passengers turned their head as she seemed to point to the back of the plane while speaking about a guy who 'was not real'

Passengers on Flight 1009 from Dallas Fort Worth to Orlando that day were forced to deplane after Gomas suggested the plane was not safe.

Staff also de-boarded the flight and re-screen the aircraft and passengers.

Gomas's meltdown was apparently sparked by an argument with a relative with whom she accused of stealing her Airpods.

'The female then started claiming the aircraft was not safe and did not want the aircraft to leave due to her believing it would not make it to its destination,' the police report states.

'Due to the statements the flight attendants felt the aircraft needed to be rescreened. [The airline manager] explained that the passenger was denied boarding and they wanted her escorted to the public side.'

After her viral meltdown, Gomas allegedly assaulted a man in an airplane terminal as video shows her speaking with cops from inside the airport.

Video shows a bald man in a blue button-down shirt and grey slacks describing Gomas' alleged attack in the terminal.

'I was just sitting right here, and she just come and [makes shoving motion] pushing me and she [left],' the man, who has not been identified, told police.

After her viral meltdown, Gomas allegedly assaulted a man in an airplane terminal as video shows her speaking with cops from inside the airport

Pictured: Gomas in bodycam footage after she exited the plane in Dallas

In that incident, the man said he was pushed in the chest by Gomas but the attack came out of nowhere, having never before interacted with the woman.

Gomas seemed surprised and scoffed at the accusation in a separate video.

'Wait, I assaulted someone? I'm 5-feet 2-inches, 120 pounds. Could I hurt you? How tall are you?'

The officer responds: 'You could go to jail for it. You could get ticketed for it,' the officer adds.

The victim declined to press charges.
The hero police Sergeant who was hit by a train while trying to save a distressed man on the tracks has died, with tributes pouring in for the 'brave and selfless officer' who was a 'hugely respected and popular colleague'.

Sergeant Graham Saville, 46, sustained serious injuries after being called to a residential area in Balderton, near Newark-on-Trent, around 7pm on Thursday following fears over a mans safety.

While trying to help the man, the Sergeant was hit by a passing train. He was taken to hospital but despite the best efforts of medical staff, the officer died at Queen's Medical Centre, with his family beside him, the force announced tonight.

The 29-year-old man saved by the officer was also taken to hospital, where he remains, after suffering non-life threatening electrocution injuries.

Flags across the force will now be flown at half-mast in a mark of respect of the Sergeant who was hailed a 'hugely respected and popular colleague', whose 'sacrifice will never be forgotten'.

Sergeant Graham Saville, 46, was hit by a train in Balderton, near Newark-on-Trent, after trying to help a man in distress. The officer sadly died today after sustaining serious injuries. Pictured: Officers are the scene on Thursday

The man saved by the officer was also taken to hospital after suffering non-life threatening electrocution injuries. Pictured: Police officers and railway workers near the scene in Balderton on Thursday

Chief Constable Kate Meynell said: 'Today is a day of mourning for the entire police family.

'Graham was a hugely respected and popular colleague and his death in the line of duty has come as an enormous shock to us all.

'Our hearts and deepest condolences go out to his family and we will do everything we can to support them through this unimaginably devastating time.

'It is impossible to put into words how devastating this news is for everyone who loved and respected Graham.'

She added: 'On Thursday, he went to work to protect the people of Nottinghamshire from harm, and it is testament to his bravery and dedication as a police officer that he was fatally injured while attempting to save another man's life.

'His service and sacrifice will never be forgotten.

'I would also like to pay tribute to the officers who attended the scene, some of whom provided immediate medical assistance while the ambulance was on its way.

'This was a deeply traumatic incident for those officers and we have a dedicated team providing support to them.

Flags across the force will now be flown at half-mast in a mark of respect of the Sergeant who was hailed a 'hugely respected and popular colleague'. Pictured: Officers at the scene on Thursday

'When a colleague dies in the line of duty the shockwaves and sadness reverberate throughout the policing family and we will all deeply mourn our colleague.'

'I have been personally overwhelmed by the publics comments and tributes,' Chief Meynell later told a press conference.

British Transport Police are currently leading an investigation into the incident, which they said happened on the line near Newark Northgate station.

Assistant Chief Constable Allan Gregory paid tribute to the Sergeant, adding 'it is one of the darkest days in policing to lose an officer in the line of duty'.

He said: 'This is truly devastating news and on behalf of everyone at British Transport Police I'd like to offer sincere and heartfelt condolences to Sergeant Saville's family, and to our colleagues at Nottinghamshire Police.'

'Detectives from BTP are conducting a full and thorough investigation in order to establish the full circumstances of what happened last week.

'We remain in the very early stages of this investigation and we will be working alongside the Coroner's Office as it progresses.

'It is one of the darkest days in policing to lose an officer in the line of duty, and Sergeant Saville's loved ones will be at the forefront of our minds throughout our enquiries.'

Tributes from the policing community, politicians and wider public have flooded social media.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak paid tribute to the beloved Sergeant, saying his death is a 'terrible reminder' of the work police do every day to keep the public safe.

'My thoughts are with his family, friends and the whole of Nottinghamshire Police Force,' he added.

A JustGiving fund, started by former policeman Dan Fletcher, who lives a mile away from the scene, had earlier raised more than 60,000

Over 3,330 supporters donated to the fund, with messages left by wellwishers hailing 'an incredible act of selfless bravery'

Policing minister Chris Philp posted on X, formally known as Twitter: 'I am deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Sgt Graham Saville, following his brave work to save someone else's life on a railway line.

'He selflessly made the ultimate sacrifice. We will remember him. Our thoughts are with Graham's family and colleagues.'

Meanwhile Head of the College of Policing, Chief Constable Andy Marsh, said following the death of Sergeant Graham Saville: 'This is devastating news and my thoughts and condolences are with this brave officer's family, friends and colleagues at this very sad time.

'It is a tragic reminder of the risks and bravery shown every day by our police officers and staff to keep the public safe.'

Home Secretary Suella Braverman said: 'I offer my deepest condolences to the family and Nottinghamshire Police colleagues of Sergeant Graham Saville, who has lost his life after saving a man in distress on a railway line.

'We owe our police officers an immense debt of gratitude for their bravery while protecting us all.'

Robert Jenrick, MP for Newark, whose constituency includes Balderton, paid tribute to the 'exceptional bravery' of Sergeant.

Writing on X Mr Jenrick said: 'Sergeant Graham Saville selflessly gave his life to save someone else.

Tributes from politicians, members of the policing community and the wider public have flooded social media

'All of us in Newark salute his exceptional bravery and self sacrifice, which won't be forgotten.

'My thoughts are with his partner and children and all his colleagues at @nottspolice.'

Announcing Sgt Saville's death this evening, the force wrote on Twitter: 'It is with great sadness that Nottinghamshire Police confirms the death of a serving officer in the line of duty.'

The Sergeant's family have asked for privacy at this time.

A JustGiving fund, started by former policeman Dan Fletcher, who lives a mile away from the scene, had earlier raised more than 60,000.

Prior to the Sergeant's death, Mr Fletcher wrote on the page: 'This is an appeal to the community in order to assist the injured police officer and his family following a terrible ordeal whereby he has sustained life-altering injuries in the line of duty whilst saving the life of another individual.

'This is the epitome of policing bravery. The long term outcome for the officer and his family and rehabilitation moving forward is going to be difficult and challenging. This fund will hopefully assist in many areas of their lives which they will now have to adapt and adjust considerably.

'Please help us help this brave selfless officer and his family. Give what you can.'

Over 3,330 supporters donated to the fund, with messages left by wellwishers hailing 'an incredible act of selfless bravery'.

For help, call Samaritans for free on 116 123 or visit samaritans.org.
Ryanair boss Michael O'Leary says he is still waiting for an explanation for bank holiday Monday's flight chaos more than 24 hours after a failure of Britain's air traffic control system saw thousands of flights cancelled or delayed.

Mr O'Leary has hit out at national air traffic control (ATC) provider National Air Traffic Services (NATS) for failing to provide answers as to what crippled its system for several hours on Monday as passengers endured hundreds more cancellations today.

Downing Street says it has not ruled out the possibility, reported earlier today, that the glitch was caused by a French airline incorrectly entering information about its flight plan into the UK's national air traffic control database.

NATS, which boasts on its website that it is the 'leading provider of air traffic control services' in the UK, has now admitted that the bug was caused by 'flight data' but has not elaborated on who was responsible.

Ryanair cancelled 250 flights on Monday and axed another 70 on Tuesday as it and other airlines continue to contend with the aftermath of the worst air traffic failure in a decade.

Passengers resort to sleeping on the floor at Palma airport on Mallorca on Tuesday as hundreds more flights were cancelled in the aftermath of Britain's air traffic control disaster

Travellers wait for news at the check-in desks for low-cost German airline Eurowings at Palma airport on Tuesday. It operates flights from Mallorca to several UK airports

Travellers at Heathrow waiting for news on their flights on Tuesday. Downing Street has not ruled out the suggestion that a French airline's incorrect data entry may have caused the crash that crippled Britain's air traffic control systems

A woman wearing a portable fan tries to cool off as she waits for her delayed flight at Gatwick Airport on Tuesday

Ryanair boss Michael O'Leary (pictured in 2022) says he has still not been told by UK air traffic control firm NATS what caused the system-wide crash on Monday

Analysis of flight data websites shows at least 281 flights - including departures and arrivals - were cancelled today at the UK's six busiest airports.

This consisted of 75 at Gatwick, 74 at Heathrow, 63 at Manchester, 28 at Stansted, 23 at Luton and 18 at Edinburgh.

Many other flights were significantly delayed and around 200,000 people remain stranded.

In a video message, Mr O'Leary said Monday had been 'a very difficult day' and that he was urgently seeking an explanation to provide to passengers.

READ MORE - Air traffic control failure was caused by flight data received by NATS which saw primary and backup systems suspend automatic processing, chief executive says Advertisement

He said: 'We still haven't had an explanation from [NATS about] what exactly caused this failure yesterday and where were their back-up systems.

'It's not acceptable that UK NATS simply allow their computer systems to be taken down and everybody's flights get cancelled.'

Speaking from the airline's operations centre at Dublin Airport, Mr O'Leary went on: 'We've had a very difficult day yesterday due to the UK NATS ATC failure.

'I'm sad to report that we had to cancel about 250 flights affecting the flights of about 40,000 passengers because of long delays to flight plans, crews running out of hours.

'Last night we had 20 aircraft that couldn't get back to their home bases so they're out of place for today.

'Today, unfortunately, it looks like we're going to cancel about another 70 flights.

'That's a very small number out of the 3,200 flights we're planning but that doesn't mean we're not doing everything we possibly can to try to minimise the disruption for our passengers and their families.'

Ryanair hopes to resume normal service from Wednesday as it gets planes to where they need to be for the regular schedule of flights.

A long queue of passengers waiting to walk into departures at Gatwick Airport

Passengers sit on their luggage at Stansted Airport today

Passengers sleep on inflatables in Gatwick Airport after being left stranded overnight

The queue at check-in inside Terminal 2 at Manchester Airport this afternoon, as UK airports still struggle to recover from the failure of air traffic control systems on Monday

NATS has since revealed that the failure was caused by unspecified 'flight data' that was fed into its system, prompting its primary and backup systems to suspend automatic data processing. It has not disclosed the source of the data.

Chief executive Martin Rolfe said NATS was aiming to deliver a preliminary report to the Transport Secretary on Monday, the contents of which will be made public.

Experts, however, have called on the air traffic body to be more transparent.

Former Nats controller Doug Maclean said 'I wouldn't think that there's much likelihood of a failure but as long as NATS don't say anything it [the French airline theory] is a perfectly legitimate question.'

He added: 'What was the problem? I don't understand why they're so closed mouth about it.'

Asked about the reports today, Rishi Sunak's official spokesman said: 'There's going to be, think you'll know that there's going to be an investigation by the CAA (Civil Aviation Authority) and a report shared with Government.

'I'm not going to pre-empt that. I've seen, obviously, various bits of speculation, but I'm not going to pre-empt the work that needs to be done.'

Today, Transport Secretary Mark Harper said it was the worst incident of its kind in 'nearly a decade' and announced an 'independent review' will be carried out.

The Civil Aviation Authority said NATS would provide them with an incident report once their investigation was 'fully complete'. This will then be shared with Mr Harper, a statement said.

A NATS spokesman has previously told MailOnline there was 'nothing to suggest a cyber attack'.

Passengers were left 'abandoned' in Palma Airport when their flight home to Newcastle on Sunday night was cancelled. Some slept in trolleys or made a makeshift 'tent' with towels

Passengers were stranded overnight at London Gatwick Airport. They are pictured this morning as they awaited further news of their flight

Passengers sleeping on mats inside Gatwick Airport following the air traffic control failure

Passengers queue for check-in at Manchester Airport's Terminal Two this morning

Passengers queue for check-in in the underground car park at Manchester Airport's Terminal One today

But Sally Gethin, former editor of Air Traffic Management magazine, questioned the way NATS had communicated with the public during the crisis.

She told MailOnline: 'NATS are used to talking about their technological advances but aren't used to such immediate scrutiny.

'They put out a video saying they had remedied the problem but it doesn't seem to me that they've understood what the core issue is.

They're trying to reassure the public but the way they're communicating doesn't give me the impression that they are fully on top of the situation.'

Ms Gethin said the outage was 'concerning' for NATS given it was currently going through a major modernisation programme.

'How on earth are they going to be able to enter that next generation era when they are hit by an outage and are forced into a manual system that goes back to the 1990s or 1980s?' she asked.

'There's a massive disconnect between where NATS is heading in the future and having to go back to the past in the last 24 hours. It's not a good look for them at all.'

Jeremy Spake, who starred in the BBC documentary series Airport and now runs an aviation consultancy, said he suspected the issue may have been caused by a communication failure between NATS and Eurocontrol, which manages European air traffic and is based in Brussels.

'Both systems automatically communicate together so there may have been a problem that led to the data becoming scrambled up,' he told MailOnline.

Mr Spake said it was 'possible' the outage could have been caused by a faulty flight plan sent in by a French airline, as has been claimed, but said he believes this is 'unlikely'.

He said: 'If there is a flight plan that potentially has errors in it, normally that would get rejected and go back to the airline.

'It's possible that an airline has done that, and it's gone into the system and created a snowball effect. But I think that's doubtful.'

Mr Spake said the interconnected nature of the global aviation system means delays could last for up to four days.

He added: 'The knock-on effect for now will last for three or four days. Not because planes won't be able to fly but because people weren't able to get on their flights and they can't always go on the next one because it's fully booked.

'Then you have air crew who are in the wrong location and have to be moved around.'

The National Air Traffic Services (NATS) currently handles around 2.6million flights every year.

It's understood officials are aware of what caused the outage but not how it disabled the system.

NATS said today: 'We would like to reiterate our apology for yesterday's technical issue affecting UK air traffic control.

'We know a great many people have had their travel plans disrupted and are still facing the impact of delays and cancellations.

'Our systems are operating as normal and we are working with the airlines and airports to get people where they need to go and clear the backlog as quickly as possible.

'A thorough investigation is now underway to understand the root cause of what happened and we are committed to learning any lessons to minimise the chance of a similar incident happening again.'

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said Transport Secretary Mark Harper would be talking to airlines about their responsibilities to passengers hit by air traffic control disruption.

He told broadcasters: 'I know people will be enormously frustrated by the disruption that's impacting them.

'Thankfully things like this are rare and the issue itself was fixed in a matter of hours, but the disruption obviously is continuing and will last for a little while longer.

'The Transport Secretary is in constant dialogue with all the industry participants, he will be talking to airlines specifically later today and making sure that they support passengers to get home as quickly as possible.'

Newcastle Airport and Gatwick Airport today banned journalists from speaking to passengers in their terminals.

But elsewhere, passengers have vented their fury after having holiday plans ruined by the hours-long outage.

The Rowley family from Rochdale (left) and travellers Mary Byrne, Alex Ogden and Elisha Mullaney (right) had their flights cancelled today

Passengers stranded overnight at London Gatwick Airport are pictured this morning

Passengers queue up at 4.20am today inside Manchester Airport's Terminal Two

A passenger sleeping on the floor at Manchester Airport early this morning

The chaos happened on one of the busiest travel days of the year (this man is seen at Manchester Airport this morning)

Katrina Harrison and her family - including one-year-old twin grandchildren - spent the night at Leeds Bradford Airport after their flight to Antalya, Turkey was cancelled on Monday afternoon.

Ms Harrison, from Stockton-on-Tees, said: 'There were no hotels to stay in, we couldn't get the car out of the car park.

'We haven't slept, we tried to sleep on the floor but couldn't. Luckily the children could sleep in the pram.

'The holiday was supposed to be a family celebration of a few things. We've spent 12,000 on it and we've been treated like muck.'

READ MORE - Alton Towers crash amputee Leah Washington caught up in air traffic control nightmare as hen party is left stranded in Portugal Advertisement

Ryan and Kirsty Fawcett, from Selby in North Yorkshire, were at East Midlands Airport with their two-year-old twin sons for their first holiday as a family - and the couple's first since 2019 - to Antalya in Turkey.

Their flight on Monday afternoon was cancelled, and after staying in a hotel overnight, they were booked on another departure on Tuesday morning that was also axed.

Ms Fawcett said: 'What has annoyed us more is we have been told 'just sit and wait around', with the extra expense of hotels and things.

'What if we didn't have money spare?'

Aviation consultant John Strickland said providing ATC for flights is 'complicated'.

He went on: 'Systems are meant to be robust. They are pressure tested and that does give a very high level of reliability.

'But as we've seen in other parts of the industry, and undoubtedly in other industries too like the banking sector, there is a vulnerability in which relying on IT systems presents.'

Holidaymakers arriving at Manchester Airport this morning were only told their flight had been cancelled at the boarding gate.

A flight departures board at Manchester Airport shows cancelled departures this morning

Passengers check the flight screens at Heathrow Airport this morning

Hundreds of flights were cancelled at London's busiest airport (which is seen today)

A man lying on the floor this morning in Terminal One at Manchester Airport

Mental health worker Elisha Mullaney had booked a flight to Corfu with Jet2 for her and son Alex Ogden.

The 41-year-old, from Manchester, said: 'I received a text from Jet2 telling me to arrive as normal.

'We checked in our bags and went through security only to be told at the gate it was one of five flights to be cancelled.

UK airspace system failure: What are your rights and can you claim compensation back? By Jessica Hamilton UK airspace has been hit by a network-wide failure for air traffic control systems on one of the busiest travel days of the year. The system failure is expected to cause disruption for the rest of the day, as the UK will see flights delayed and cancelled, with the mayhem spreading around Europe. As the chaos continues, many will be wondering if they can claim compensation. But what are your rights? Read on to find out. Can I claim compensation? If you're flight is delayed, your airline should offer you support and, according to Citizens Advice, you may be able to claim compensation if your flight was: Leaving from the UK (regardless of the airline)

Leaving from the EU, Iceland, Norway or Switzerland (regardless of the airline)

Arriving in the UK and was with a UK or EU airline

Arriving in the EU and was with a UK airline If you're on a non-UK flight which connects to a UK flight, you can usually receive compensation if you booked both flights as a single booking, if the delay was the airline's fault and if you're delayed for more than 12 hours. If your flight is delayed, your airline has to offer food and drink, access to phone calls and emails and accommodation if you're delayed overnight, as well as journeys between the airport and hotel. However, you're unlikely to get compensation if the delay was because of something outside the airline's control. According to EU Regulation EC 261/2004, disruptions caused by things like extreme weather, airport or air traffic control employee strikes or other 'extraordinary circumstances' are not eligible for compensation. How much could I be entitled to? In cases where the airline is at fault for a delay, passengers could receive the following compensation. 3 hours or more, less than 1,500km: 220

3 hours or more, between 1,500 and 3,500km: 350

4 hours or more, more than 3500km: 520

Less than 4 hours, more than 3,500km 260 If your flight is delayed for 5 hours or more you can claim 520 in compensation if the delay is the airline's fault and you take flight. If you don't take the flight and the airline is at fault, they should give you a full refund for the flight and any other flights from the same airline that you won't use. If you are part-way through your journey, they should fund a flight back to the airport you originally departed from. Alternatively, if your flight is cancelled you may be entitled to a full refund or a replacement flight. How can I claim? To claim compensation, you will have to go through the relevant airline directly. Most airlines will have a customer services department which will deal with urgent matters, such as flight delays. In cases where the delay is not the airline's fault, the Civil Aviation Authority says 'don't expect to receive any compensation.' However, you may be able to make a claim on your travel insurance, as some insurance policies may offer limited cover for delays, according to the Money Saving Expert website. But be sure to gather evidence of the costs you've incurred, such as hotels or alternative transport. If you need further help, you can contact the Civil Aviation Authority and Citizens Advice for assistance. Advertisement

'It is very annoying and they must have known well in advance.

'It's my son's 16th birthday today, which makes it worse.

'I tried to find alternative flights so we could still go but it was going to cost us 600 a ticket. The flight price had increased so much.

'I'm just hoping we will get our money back and we can find something else quickly.'

Mary Byrne, who was also on the same flight, said: 'I don't understand why Jet2 can't just delay the flight.

'They made us go all the way through the checking in process knowing there was no chance of us boarding and departing.

'I thought everything with air traffic control would have been sorted by now.

'We are really disappointed.'

Kirstie Rowley, 52, a payroll and finance officer from Rochdale, was also travelling to Corfu on the 7.30am flight.

She said: 'We expected to be delayed with what we had seen on the news but we did think we would get away.

'We had checked in, found ourselves a comfortable spot to wait and got a round of drinks. Then we were told the flight had been cancelled.

'I'm going to have to go back into work tomorrow because if I don't I won't have enough days left to take later. I've already lost one day.

'We were supposed to be meeting friends out in Corfu so I'm going to have to let them know.

'We are going to try to get out later in the week and extend the holiday if the hotel is available.'

Barbara Rowley, who is retired and in her 70s, said: 'We've just tried to get a taxi home and were told

It would cost 87. Only a few hours ago it was 40.

'It is wrong. Everyone is trying to make a quick buck and cash in on what is happening.

'I am fed up and have been looking forward to this holiday.'

Chris Rowley, 51, a sheet metal worker, said: 'It is always chaos over the bank holiday weekend. Something always seems to happen to cause delays and cancellations.

'I am gutted because I've worked seven days a week for the past two weeks to get in front with my work because I knew I was going away.

'Why did they make us go through security if they were just going to cancel the flight?

'We have spent a lot of money already and all we have done is spend a few hours in the airport.

'I just hope we can fly out later in the week.'

Barbara Rowley, who is retired and in her 70s, said: 'We've just tried to get a taxi home and were told it would cost 87.

'Only a few hours ago it was 40. It is wrong. Everyone is trying to make a quick buck and cash in on what is happening. I am fed up and have been looking forward to this holiday.'

Chris Rowley, 51, a sheet metal worker, said: 'It is always chaos over the bank holiday weekend. Something always seems to happen to cause delays and cancellations.

'I am gutted because I've worked seven days a week for the past two weeks to get in front with my work because I knew I was going away.

'Why did they make us go through security if they were just going to cancel the flight?

'We have spent a lot of money already and all we have done is spend a few hours in the airport.

'I just hope we can fly out later in the week.'

Under UK law, those affected have legal rights which oblige the airlines to provide support to customers flying from a UK airport, arriving in the country on an EU or UK airline, or arriving at an EU airport on a UK airline.

The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) website says that in the case of a 'significant delay', the airline must provide a reasonable amount of food and drink, commonly in the form of vouchers, refunds for the cost of calls, and accommodation for passengers stuck overnight and transport to a hotel or their home.

The CAA accepts airlines are sometimes unable to organise such support, so passengers should make their own 'reasonable' arrangements and keep receipts to claim money back, but the authority adds that 'luxury hotels and alcohol' are unlikely to be paid for.

The authority adds that once a passenger accepts a refund or to travel later than the first available flight, then the airline is not obliged to provide food, drink or accommodation.

Nicky Kelvin, Editor at Large at The Points Guy, urged travellers to check the Flight Radar 24 website to track the exact aircraft that will be flying your route.

'You're then able to see where this plane is and whether it has made it out of its previous destination.

'Knowing this information will help you to determine whether you will be encountering any delays ahead of your trip,' he said.

'If you're delayed for more than two hours on a short-haul flight, airlines must provide you with support such as food and drink and reimbursement for phone calls. If you're delayed overnight, they will provide you accommodation and transport to a hotel (or home).'
The mother of a 10-year-old boy who was mauled by a vicious XL Bully has revealed the tragic final words she said to her son as he went outside to play - telling him: 'I love you, be careful'.

Emma Whitfield, 32, lost her eldest child when he was attacked by the seven stone dog called Beast, and is now campaigning for the 'Jack Lis Law' - tougher legislation named after her son.

Jack suffered catastrophic injuries in the mauling by the animal after he went out to play at a friend's house near his home in South Wales on November 8, 2021.

Emma has now detailed her memories of what happened that day in a heartbreaking new post: 'Jack went out the patio doors and to the shed, he came back with his skateboard and asked to go out to play.

'Looking back at it, I feel like I should have said no, it was raining, but he was a kid, he wanted to go out to play. His phone was charged, I had no reason to say no.'

Jack Lis was attacked by the XL bully dog while playing with a friend at a house after school in Caerphilly in 2021

Emma Whitfield (pictured), 32, is calling for 'Jack Lis Law', named after her son to enforce harsher laws on dangerous dog owners

Before he left their home in Caerphilly for the final time, Emma revealed that she had 'said the usual things to Jack' and that her last words to were 'I love you, be careful.'

Just ten minutes later, she recalls, there was a knock on her door. A woman from her street asked if she was Jack's mum.

She said yes, and the woman told her news which is every parents worse nightmare - her son had been attacked by a dog.

Emma took her younger son James to a neighbour's house and jumped in a car, rushing to the spot where the woman said Jack was.

The scene was 'chaotic' when they pulled up outside, Emma said. 'People everywhere shouting and screaming, I could hear a dog barking so, so loudly from inside.'

The mum scrambled to try and find out if it was Jack inside the home, which amid the confusion people were unable to get inside.

'People were banging the windows to try and distract the dog. I heard one man say "he's gone, he's legged it",' she said, in reference to the dog's owner.

Police arrived at the scene and cleared the area, warning people to get indoors as they attempted to gain entry.

To their horror, she said, the dog tried to escape as they opened the door. An officer managed to pull Jack away from the dog and soon after Emma heard gunshots as the animal was destroyed.

Jack suffered 'severe injuries to the head and neck' when he was set upon by the seven stone XL Bully, Beast (pictured), while playing at his friend's home

An ambulance arrived and paramedics ran to help Jack, but tragically the little boy's injuries were 'unsurvivable'.

Two people were jailed in connection with the attack. Now the criminal proceedings have ended, Emma said she is determined to campaign for better dog legislation in the UK to prevent this kind of tragedy from ever happening again.

While American Bullies are not banned breeds, they have been known to be cross-bred with illegal pitbulls.

What is the Dangerous Dogs Act? The Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 bans or restricts certain types of dogs and makes it an offence to allow a dog of any breed to be dangerously out of control. It was introduced 30 years ago by Home Secretary Kenneth Baker 'to rid the country of the menace of these fighting dogs' after a string of attacks. WHICH DOGS ARE BANNED IN THE UK? It is illegal to own four breeds of dogs without an exemption from a court. They are: American pitbull terriers, Japanese Tosas, Dogo Argentinos and Fila Brazileiros. The law also criminalises cross-breeds of the above four types of dog - meaning that whether a dog is prohibited will depend on a judgement about its physical characteristics and whether they match the description of a prohibited 'type'. WHAT HAPPENS IF THERE'S A DOG ATTACK? You can get an unlimited fine or be sent to prison for up to six months if your dog is dangerously out of control. You may not be allowed to own a dog in the future and your dog may be destroyed. If you let your dog injure someone you can be sent to prison for up to five years or fined. If you deliberately use your dog to injure someone you could be charged with 'malicious wounding'. And if you allow your dog to kill someone you can be sent to prison for up to 14 years or get an unlimited fine. WHY IS THE ACT CONTROVERSIAL? Both the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals and the British Veterinary Association have protested against the ban, insisting there is no scientific evidence that all individuals of a breed are dangerous. However, Met Police data suggests that in incidents involving 'dangerously out of control dogs', banned breeds account for about a fifth of offences. Advertisement

Emma is fronting a campaign to overhaul the Dangerous Dogs Act, which has banned pitbulls since 1991.

She wants to see tougher penalties on dangerous dog owners considered as well as stronger rules to stop illegal and irresponsible breeding and selling.

A further 15 people have lost their lives in dog attacks in the 18 months since Jack's death, including an 83-year-old woman in Caerphilly, while there were nearly 22,000 cases of injuries from out of control dogs in 2022.

Speaking to The Mirror earlier this year, Jack's mother said: 'Enough is enough. This has to stop.

'It's mind-blowing how it keeps happening. It should never have happened to Jack but why has nobody learned from this?

'Innocent people are dying. The Government needs to act now. It's out of control and there are people losing their kids because of this. I want to stop this happening.'

She said that certain types of dogs have become 'status symbols' and said not all breeders or owners need policing under new legislation.

'To me it is not different than having a lethal weapon,' she said.

'My problem is with backyard breeders who don't care where the dogs go. There is no reason why a dog needs to sell for 10,000 to go into a family home.'

The campaign for the 'Jack Lis Law' is backed by the Dog Control Coalition - which includes the RSPCA, Dogs Trust and Battersea Dogs & Cats Home - and Caerphilly's Labour MP Wayne David.

They are calling for a different approach to dog legislation which includes all dogs and focuses on breeding, training and the sale of dogs.

Calling the problem an epidemic, Mr David said: 'We have to ask who is next?

'There can be no doubt that radical reform is needed to dog law. This will only happen when everyone who is concerned pulls together.

'I'm quoting the police when I say there is more money in selling dogs for some criminals than selling drugs. I'm determined to see this issue addressed by the Government as soon as humanly possible.'

He has previously called for the reintroduction of dog licences.

RSPCA head of companion animals Dr Samantha Gaines said: 'The Dangerous Dogs Act has failed to protect the public from the risk of bites, we want a new approach.

'It is also essential measures are available to deter and punish owners of dogs whose behaviour is dangerous.'

The XL Bully is not recognised as an official breed by the UK's Kennel Club.
A Colorado schoolboy has been kicked out of class for having a Gadsden Flag patch on his backpack  despite the governor calling it a 'proud symbol of the American revolution'.

Footage shows Jaiden, 12, and his mother talking to an administrator from The Vanguard School who claimed that the flag had 'origins with slavery.'

The staffer claims that the patch was 'disruptive to the classroom environment,' as she claimed it has 'origins with slavery.'

He was told that the patch, which has 'Don't Tread on Me' emblazoned on it along with a rattlesnake, was against the district's policy and he was not allowed to go back to class without removing it.

The pupil was told by the administrator: 'So the reason that they do not want the flag  the reason we do not want the flag displayed  is due to its origins with slavery, and the slave trade.

NEW: 12-year old Colorado student smirks after getting kicked out of class for wearing the Dont Tread on Me flag on his backpack, teacher falsely claims the flag is linked to slavery.



This kid knows more about history than the teacher 



So they're the reason that they do pic.twitter.com/owTJX7LmYi  Collin Rugg (@CollinRugg) August 29, 2023

Footage shows Jaiden, 12, and his mother talking to an administrator from The Vanguard School who claimed that the flag had 'origins with slavery'

'The bag can't go back if it's got the patch on it, cause we can't have that in and around other kids.'

But his mother was quick to defend her son, claiming that the flag originally comes from the American Revolution as a symbol of the 13 colonies' fight against the British Crown and did not promote slavery.

She can be heard in the video saying: 'It has nothing to do with slavery, that's like the revolutionary war patch that was displayed when they were fighting the British.'

As part of the back and forth, she questioned if the school employee was mistaking it for the Confederate Flag.

The administrator responded, 'I am here to enforce the policy that was provided by the district and definitely, you have every right not to agree with it.'

But his mother was backed up by Democrat Colorado Gov. Jared Polis, who weighed in on the issue, denying that the flag was racist, instead claiming it was a 'great teaching moment'.

He said: 'The Gadsden flag is a proud symbol of the American Revolution and a iconic warning to Britain or any government not to violate the liberties of Americans.

'It appears on popular American medallions and challenge coins through today and Ben Franklin also adopted it to symbolize the union of the 13 colonies. It's a great teaching moment for a history lesson!'

The Gadsden flag was designed by South Carolina soldier Christopher Gadsden in the mid-1770s during the American Revolution

But his mother was quick to defend her son, claiming that the flag originally comes from the American Revolution as a symbol of the 13 colonies' fight against the British Crown and did not promote slavery

Colorado Gov. Jared Polis, weighed in on the issue, denying that the flag was racist, instead claiming it was a 'great teaching moment'

Emails sent to the mother by Jeff Yocum, the Director of Operations at the school, were obtained by Libertas Institute President Connor Boyack.

He claimed that the flag was banned from the school because of its links to racism, quoting a graphic design scholar Paul Bruski.

Bruski, who works at Iowa State University, said: 'Because of its creator's history and because it is commonly flown alongside 'Trump 2020' flags, the Confederate battle flag and other white-supremacist flags, some may now see the Gadsden flag as a symbol of intolerance and hate  or even racism.'

Yokum also shared an article which stated a dispute with the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission after a Postal Service worker wore a Gadsden Flag hat to work.

The staffer claims that the patch was 'disruptive to the classroom environment,' as she claimed it has 'origins with slavery'

As part of the back and forth she questioned if the school employee was mistaking it for the Confederate Flag

The EEOC did not rule on the claim, which was on the basis of racial discrimination, but 'did not find that the Gadsden Flag in fact is a racist symbol.'

However, it claimed that the flag has been 'interpreted to convey racially-tinged messages in some contexts.'

The Gadsden flag was designed by South Carolina soldier Christopher Gadsden in the mid-1770s during the American Revolution.

Colonel Gadsden had seen a yellow banner with a hissing, coiled rattlesnake rising up in the center, and beneath the serpent the words: 'Don't Tread On Me'.

He made a copy and submitted the design to the Provincial Congress in South Carolina.

Commodore Esek Hopkins, commander of the new Continental fleet, carried a similar flag in early 1776 when his ships went to sea for the first time.
Responding to a report Tuesday that phone calls between Mayor Adams and his indicted former Buildings boss Eric Ulrich were intercepted in a sweeping corruption investigation, City Hall said the mayor had received no requests from prosecutors for any information in the case.

Adams is among several people whose calls with Ulrich were intercepted by the Manhattan district attorneys office in its probe into the ex-Department of Buildings commissioner, according to reporting in the New York Times.

The mayor has not been accused of any criminal wrongdoing in the investigation nor is it inherently surprising that Adams would be speaking with his buildings commissioner on the phone. The Times reported that he did not feature as a person of interest on a confidential wiretap application.

As we have previously stated, we will allow this investigation to run its course and will continue to assist the DA in any way needed. a spokesperson for the mayor said. And, while we do not discuss private conversations, to avoid speculation, the mayor has not received any requests from the Manhattan DA surrounding this matter and has never spoken to Mr. Ulrich about this investigation.

Last month, The News reported that sources said Ulrich told prosecutors he learned from Adams he was under investigation months before the probe became public in May 2022, when the mayor told him to watch your back and watch your phones.

Adams denies the encounter.

Ulrich was charged in a sealed indictment last month and is expected to appear in court to enter a plea in September. Investigators seized his phone seven months after his appointment last November as Adams Buildings commissioner.

Ulrichs landlord, Mark Caller, is among those expected to face bribery-related charges for allegedly renting the councilman an apartment at a reduced price. Callers lawyer, Ben Brafman, previously denied the allegations against his developer client with city business interests, describing it as patently false that he engaged in anything amounting to bribery.

Brafman could not be reached for comment on Tuesday.

According to The Times, Joseph Livreri  one of Ulrichs former aides in the City Council and gambling associate  is also expected to face charges, along with his brother, Anthony. The brothers own Aldos in Ozone Park, a pizzeria linked to the investigation.

The outlet reported that the brothers hosted a swanky fundraiser for Adams before his election with a friend of Ulrichs, who prosecutors are also looking into, Michael Mazzio, a towing company operator.

Adams rebuffed inquiries about his dealings with Anthony Livreri at a press conference on Tuesday.

I get a ton of fundraisers. I get a ton of people who stop me on the street, Adams said.

I am inundated every day, all day with people  So if you ask me did I know everyone who came or hosted an event, or what have you, no, I dont know everyone that hosts events. I dont know everyone that wants me to come to this event.

Those who hosted events, I dont know their names, I dont know all their faces. I have a fundraising team, the mayor added.

The News reported last month that Livreri, hired as a constituent services staffer in 2019 by then-Republican Councilman Ulrich, was fired amid the Manhattan DA investigation in July. His lawyer could not be reached for comment.

Ulrichs attorney, Sam Braverman, has declined to comment on the charges pending their unsealing.

The Manhattan DAs office declined to comment.
Donald Trump's 'Kraken' lawyer Sidney Powell pleaded not guilty Tuesday for her role in allegedly attempting to subvert the 2020 election results in Georgia.

Powell waived her right to be arraigned alongside the 18 other co-defendants, and former President Trump, in Fulton County next Wednesday.

Trump allies Trevian Kutti and Ray Smith also waived their formal arraignments and entered not guilty pleas this week.

Powell earned her nickname in 2020, when she described the case she was mounting against Joe Biden's election victory as the 'Kraken'.

Donald Trump's 'Kraken' lawyer Sidney Powell has pleaded not guilty to trying to subvert the 2020 election results in Georgia

Georgia-based attorney Ray Smith, who worked for Trump, entered in writing his denial of wrongdoing in the election meddling case and waived his arraignment. He was the first to do so.

The rest of the co-defendants who have not yet entered a plea, including Trump, are scheduled to be arraigned next Wednesday in-person in Fulton County, Georgia after they were required to turn themselves over for bookings by noon on Friday, August 25.

The booking resulted in the first mugshot of Trump despite three previous indictments before the latest for his efforts to illegally overturn the 2020 presidential election results in Georgia.

Smith surrendered to authorities at Fulton County jail on August 23 and was released on $50,000 bond.

Judge Steve Jones has already approved cameras in the courtroom for the arraignments on September 6, meaning the proceedings are able to be televised.

Trump allies Trevian Kutti (right) and Ray Smith (left) also waived their formal arraignments and entered not guilty pleas this week

By Smith entering his not guilty plea in writing, he is able to avoid an on-camera arraignment.

'It is counsel's understanding that by filing this waiver of arraignment, prior to the arraignment date, that Mr. Smith and undersigned counsel are executed from appearing at the arraignment calendar on September 6, 2023,' the Georgia lawyer's attorney wrote.

There are sure to be other in-writing not guilty pleas to follow.

Smith currently faces 12 counts in the indictment, including part of the racketeering charge claiming there was a conspiracy involving several crimes to null President Joe Biden's 2020 victory in the Peach State.

Three counts are on soliciting a public officer to violate their oath of office and two are for making false statements. Six others relate to the scheme to submit fake electors, which includes counts on forgery and conspiracy.

Several of the counts against Smith involved his participation in Georgia legislative hearings where he and other attorneys sought to convince state lawmakers of mass election fraud.

During the proceedings, Smith spoke to lawmakers and questioned witnesses on Trump's team.

The 41-count indictment against Trump and the 18 co-defendants was handed down earlier this month by Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis.

Trump's last White House Chief of Staff Mark Meadows requested on Monday that his case be moved from Georgia to the federal level so he would receive a more representative jury pool. He argued during testimony that all of his actions were taken while under direction of the President and in his official capacity as the top White House aide.

Former Justice Department official Jeffrey Clark and former Georgia State Senator and GOP Chair David Shafer are also seeking that their cases are moved to federal court.

Judge Jones heard arguments for Meadows on Monday and scheduled a September 18 hearing to discuss Clark's request to move his case to federal court.

Jones did not issue a ruling Monday on Meadows' effort.

Other co-defendants include former Trump attorneys Rudy Giuliani, John Eastman, and Jenna Ellis.

Trump and all 18 others were charged with violating Georgia's Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organization Act, among other offenses.
Donald Trump is facing a nightmare scenario next year as his court dates collide with key primary races in his bid to be the Republican presidential nominee.

The hits have been piling on the former president, including one on Monday when a federal judge in Washington, D.C. set a March 5 trial date for his case involving interference in the 2020 election results. That date is the day before the Super Tuesday - one of the biggest dates on the primary schedule.

And former president will be in Georgia on September 6th to be arraigned on charges he tried to over turn the 2020 election results in that state.

Further trial dates haven't been set but Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis said she'd like to see Trump's trial kick off in the next six months, meaning it could take place smack dab in the middle of presidential primary season.

In all Trump has six scheduled criminal and civil trials over the next nine months. The four criminal cases include 91 felony counts.

The trials are taking place across three states and the District of Columbia - often within days of one another and as voters are going to the polls to decide the Republican presidential nominee.

Additionally, one of Trump's trial dates - for the original E. Jean Carroll defamation lawsuit - is set to take place on January 15, 2024, the exact same day as the Iowa caucuses.

Here are key dates to look out for as Trump runs for president and tries to stay out of jail:

September 6, 2023: Arraignment in Georgia

Trump and his 18 co-defendants will be arraigned on charges related to an alleged criminal enterprise that sought to overturn his 2020 loss to Joe Biden in the state.

September 27, 2023: Second Republican primary debate

The 2024 Republican hopefuls are expected to meet onstage for the second debate of the primary cycle. It's scheduled to take place at the Reagan Presidential Library in Simi Valley, California.

October 2, 2023: Trial date for Trump Organization civil fraud suit

The $250 million civil lawsuit filed by New York Attorney General Letitia James goes to trial. In September, James sued Trump, his business and his eldest three children for fraud.

She said the ex-president 'wildly exaggerated his net worth by billions of dollars,' while manipulating property valuations to get tax breaks and better terms on loans and insurance policies.

Donald Trump had a booking photo taken in Georgia

On the same date of the Iowa caucuses is E. Jean Carroll's (above) defamation suit against Trump

Trump was mobbed when he visited the Iowa State Fair in early August

January 15, 2024: The Iowa caucuses

The 2024 election's official kick-off date. The Iowa caucuses are the official start of Republican primary season. Voters throughout the Hawkeye State will gather at caucus sites and hear a pitch from each candidate or a surrogate for each candidate before casting their vote.

Iowa has given candidates momentum to eventually win the party's nomination - such as for Barack Obama in 2008 - or crushed candidates' presidential dreams.

Trump lost the 2016 Iowa caucus to Sen. Ted Cruz.

January 15, 2024: E. Jean Carroll defamation trial begins

E. Jean Carroll's original defamation lawsuit against Trump goes to trial - but luckily for the ex-president, with the Iowa caucuses happening the same day, the 2024 Republican hopeful doesn't have to attend in person.

Carroll sued Trump in November 2019 for defamation after he publicly denied her claims of being raped by him in 1996 in the Bergdorf Goodman department store i New York City. Trump said that Carroll was 'totally lying' and 'not my type.'

In a separate lawsuit that went to trial earlier this year, jury members found that Trump did not rape Carroll but sexually abused her and awarded her $5 million in the suit, something Trump is challenging.

January 23, 2024: The tentative date for the New Hampshire primary

The Granite State will hold its first-in-the-nation primary a week after the Iowa caucuses. In 2016, New Hampshire gave Trump his first primary election night win. In current polls, he's 40 points ahead of the second-place candidate, former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie.

January 29, 2024: Trial in pyramid scheme class-action suit

Yet another trial will kick off in January. This federal class action lawsuit was filed just before the 2018 midterms and alleged that Trump and his three eldest children convinced consumers to invest in a get-rich-quick scheme. 'The Investments did not - and could not - offer a reasonable probability of success,' the lawsuit said.

February 8, 2024: Nevada caucuses

The third primary contest of the year takes place in Nevada. Trump won the Nevada caucuses in 2016.

February 24, 2024: South Carolina primary

The fourth primary contest will take place in South Carolina, where two of Trump's Republican rivals are from.

This artist sketch depicts former President Donald Trump, right, conferring with defense lawyer Todd Blanche, center, during his appearance at the Federal Courthouse in Washington DC in early August

Trump's New York trial related to hush money paid to porn star Stormy Daniels (above) takes place at the end of March

February 27, 2024: Michigan primary

The fifth primary contest next year will take place in Michigan, a state Trump won in the general election in 2016, helping him win the White House over Hillary Clinton.

Since then, the state has been trending blue, with a Democratic governor, Democrats controlling state government and President Joe Biden winning the state over Trump during the 2020 race. '

March 4, 2024: Start of federal 2020 election and January 6 trial

Special Counsel Jack Smith will begin his federal trial on the charges related to Trump's attempts to overturn the 2020 election and his role in January 6.

March 5, 2024: Super Tuesday

Alabama, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Maine, Massachusetts, Minnesota, North Carolina, Oklahoma, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont and Virginia will hold their primaries next year on Super Tuesday.

March 25, 2024: Hush money case goes to trial

About a year after Trump's first indictment, on New York state charges related to the hush money payments given to porn star Stormy Daniels ahead of the 2016 election, the case will go to trial.

If GOP voters coalesce around one Trump rival, the Republican primary could still be ongoing.

During his last competitive cycle, Trump didn't become the presumptive GOP nominee until May 3, 2016.

The classified documents case is set to go to trial in mid-May despite Trump's lawyers pushing Trump-appointed federal Judge Aileen M. Cannon to delay it until after the 2024 presidential election

May 20, 2024: Classified documents trial is set to begin

The Trump-appointed federal Judge Aileen M. Cannon picked mid-May for the classified documents trial to begin.

Special Counsel Jack Smith's team had originally wanted the Florida-based case to go to trial in December 2023, while Trump's lawyers asked that it be delayed until after the 2024 presidential election.

June 4, 2024: Final Republican primaries

The final states will hold primary elections in the race to decide the GOP presidential nominee.

July 15 to 18 2024: Republican National Convention

Republicans will make their primary pick official at the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Democrats were supposed to have their 2020 convention in the midwestern city, but instead held a scaled-back version in Wilmington, Delaware due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

November 4, 2024: Election Day

Americans will vote for president on the first Tuesday of November next year.
An education trust has been fined 80,000 after a classroom ceiling collapsed onto 15 Year 3 children and their children at a private school.

The pupils, aged between seven and eight, were were in a lesson at Rosemead Preparatory School in Dulwich, south London when the ceiling collapsed.

The youngsters and their teachers were injured when tables and chairs fell onto them from the attic above - some broke bones while others were left concussed or covered in cuts.

Emergency services raced to the school on Thurlow Park Road after the collapse on the morning of November 15 2021. The teacher and several pupils were taken to hospital.

The Thurlow Education Trust, which runs the private school which charges 5,606 a term, pleaded guilty today for breaching parts of the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974.

The Year 3 pupils and their teacher had been in a lesson at Rosemead Preparatory School in Dulwich, south London when the ceiling collapsed

The youngsters and their teachers were injured when tables and chairs fell onto them from the attic above

Rosemead Preparatory School and Nursery teaches children between the ages of two-and-a-half and 11.

A Health and Safety Executive (HSE) investigation found items, such as desks and chairs, were being stored in an area in the attic which was not designed to be load bearing and led to the ceiling collapsing.

The HSE investigation also found the trust had failed to undertake any structural or load bearing capability assessments of the area being used to store the items, and it had also failed to assess whether the area was appropriate to be used for the storage.

The sections of the act broken included Section 2(1) and Section 3(1).

The Thurlow Educational Trust was fined 80,000 and ordered to pay 7,116.31 in costs at Westminster Magistrates' Court on August 29.

HSE inspector Samuel Brown said: 'This incident has resulted in injuries to multiple young children due to the failings of the school to ensure that chairs and tables were safely stored above their classroom.

'Schools should be a place where children can come to learn from teachers and one another without having to worry about their safety.

Emergency services raced to the school on Thurlow Park Road after the collapse on the morning of November 15 2021

'Fortunately, this incident did not cause any more serious injuries, but the mental and emotional impact of such an event should not be understated.

'Employers need to take action to ensure that building stability and solidity problems are not caused through overloading areas not designed to bear weight. As proven, the failure to do so can have severe consequences.'

Nick Crawford chair of the Thurlow Educational Trust said: 'The events of 15th November 2021 will forever be marked as one of the most challenging in the schools history. We recognise how deeply distressing it was for those involved.

'On behalf of the school, we would like to express our sincere regret and apologies that the incident happened.

'The health and safety of our pupils, staff and the wider school community is of paramount concern to us.

'The school has fully cooperated with the HSE investigation and taken significant steps since the incident to ensure that its health and safety arrangements are as robust as they can be.'
Alex is currently serving two life sentences for the murders of Maggie and Paul, which his eldest son says is 'not fair'

Buster Murdaugh has broken his silence to say he does not believe his father Alex killed his brother and mother  and denies having a gay relationship with murdered schoolfriend Stephen Smith or any involvement in his death.

The eldest son of the disgraced South Carolina attorney told Fox Nation he doesn't think it's possible his dad, 55, killed Maggie and Paul at their hunting estate in 2021.

He said: 'I think that I hold a very unique perspective that nobody else in that courtroom ever held. And I know the love that I have witnessed.

'I was there for six weeks studying it, and I think it was a tilted table from the beginning.'

Buster, 26, also had the finger pointed at him over the death of his schoolmate Stephen Smith, 19, in 2015  as well as claims the pair had a gay relationship.

But in the interview he denied any links to it, adding: 'I never had anything to do with his murder and I never had anything to do with him on a physical level of any regard.'

The eldest son of the disgraced former South Carolina attorney told Fox Nation that he doesn't think it's possible that his father, 55, killed Maggie and Paul at their hunting estate Moselle in 2021

Convicted killer Alex is currently serving two life sentences for the murders, despite insisting from the witness stand during his trial that he is not guilty

Murdaugh spoke for the first time on FOX Nation's The Fall of the House of Murdaugh, hosted by Martha MacCallum, which airs on August 31.

Convicted killer Alex is currently serving two life sentences for the murders, despite insisting from the witness stand during his trial he is not guilty.

The former lawyer is appealing his conviction, with Buster doubling down against the accusations against his father.

He took aim at the police and judge, claiming they had a 'crappy motive' and he does not 'believe it was fair' that all 12 jurors found him guilty.

'I was there for six weeks studying it, and I think it was a tilted table from the beginning,' Buster said.

'And I think, unfortunately, a lot of the jurors felt that way prior to when they had to deliberate.

'It was predetermined in their minds prior to when they ever heard any shred of evidence that was given in that room.'

He believes that the jury ultimately found his father guilty of the shootings because of 'everything they had the ability to read prior to the trial.'

Buster, 26, also had the finger pointed at him over the death of his schoolmate Stephen Smith, 19, in 2015  as well as claims that the pair had a relationship

Stephen Smith was found dead on July 8, 2015, on a rural road not far from the Murdaugh hunting lodge that would become a bloody murder scene six years later

Buster's father Murdaugh, 54, was found guilty of the double murder of his wife Maggie and other son Paul

Buster, Paul, Maggie and Alex Murdaugh at the Moselle estate in a picture uploaded on Maggie's Facebook to mark Father's Day 2020

During the trial, it was revealed that Alex had lied about being at the kennels where Maggie and Paul were shot to death on the hunting estate.

His lie was uncovered after his voice was captured on a Snapchat video on Paul's phone, which was made just before the murders.

Murdaugh is pictured in a mugshot with his head shaved and wearing a yellow jumpsuit

Buster says it is 'odd' that his father lied about being in the area, adding that he was 'confused' and would like to know why Alex said what he did.

Buster, who is Murdaugh's last surviving child, also took aim at Judge Newman for how he spoke to his father at the sentencing.

He said he felt the judge went 'too far' with his comment of Alex visiting Paul and Maggie 'every night' when he sleeps.

'I think that's just another one of his clever little lines to suggest that he agrees with the guilty verdict', Buster added.

'I think he was very straightforward about that. And I think it was just a kind of a cruel analogy to be throwing out amongst a - just an overly public trial.'

Buster and his father Alex exchange a look as he walks up to the witness stand Tuesday at Colleton County courthouse in Walterboro

Buster looks on from the witness stand as his father returns to the courtroom following a break in his testimony

During a break in the 26-year-old's emotional testimony, Alex was seen patting his sole surviving son on the buttock

But Murdaugh's son said that he felt the police were under an 'awful lot of pressure' to come up with a suspect in the double killings.

He added he felt that the police felt they 'had to do something', saying: 'And I think that it was -- and that's the option and the route that they decided to go with.

'My biggest thing that I want people to realize, that there are always two sides of the story.

'Now, they can pick which one they want to believe. But I think there's a heck of a lot that still needs to be answered about what happened on June the 7th.'

Buster also denied being anything like his father, telling the docuseries he is not a 'thief, liar or manipulator'.

But he admitted he thinks he has some of Alex's 'more admirable traits', which he is 'quite proud of'.

Murdaugh also took the time to deny having any relationship with Stephen Smith, who was found dead on a road not far from Moselle in 2015.

Following his death, cops were tipped off about an alleged gay relationship between the pair which was being gossiped about at the local high school, Netflix and HBO claim in a special documentary.

Smith was 19 when his bloodied body was found in the middle of the road, with authorities initially ruling it as a hit and run despite a lack of evidence pointing towards that.

Smith's mother Sandra claims that her son may have been the victim of a hate crime carried out by the Murdaugh clan

Files from the 2015 investigation stated Smith was found in the middle of Sandy Run Road with some sort of blunt force trauma to the head and that there was 'no vehicle debris, skid marks, or injuries consistent with someone being struck by a vehicle'

The original incident report by the South Carolina Department of Public Safety dated July 8, 2015 found that there was 'no evidence to suggest the victim was struck by a vehicle'

An investigation log note from August 2015 shows one investigator informing another of a tip questioning whether Stephen and Buster Murdaugh 'ever had any type of relationship'

Another note shows investigators received an anonymous tip months later stating 'Dontereo Aiken along with another black male and a white male (Murdaugh) are the ones involved in the death'

His family raised more than $60,000 after Alex's conviction to have his body exhumed for a private autopsy.

Buster issued a public statement at the time denying the 'vicious rumors' which he again referenced in his first interview.

DailyMail.com previously revealed initial investigators found no evidence of any vehicle accident and were convinced the victim had a gunshot wound above his right eye.

The original incident report written by South Carolina Highway Patrol investigators on the scene states: 'The victim was found in the middle of Sandy Run Road deceased from some sort of blunt force trauma to the head. Responded to the scene. I saw no vehicle debris, skid marks, or injuries consistent with someone being struck by a vehicle.'

The report continues: 'The shoes were loosely tied, and both were still on. After consulting with MAIT we see no evidence to suggest the victim was struck by a vehicle.'

Lawyers for his family say that from the torso down he had no injuries, with no car parts found at the scene.

Buster, who supported his doomed father every day during his trial last month, said he wanted privacy to 'grieve over the brutal murders of my mother and brother'

A GoFundMe for Stephen Smith, who died in 2015, has surpassed its target. Buster Murdaugh's name has long been linked to Smith's

He also supposedly walked three miles in the dark without using his phone and left his wallet in his car.

Smith's mother Sandy said he would not have left his wallet behind and would have at least called his sister.

'Assistant Coroner Kelly Greene then began to show me photographs they took, again pointing to the entry point to the head and also a defensive wound to the hand.'

Written by a James B. Tallon III the notes state: 'Originally HCSO had notified the South Carolina Highway Patrol in reference to this being a possible hit and run.

'After further investigation it was believed that the victim had been shot in the head.'

And EMS worker is noted as having, 'stated that a projectile wound was located on the victim's head.'

And the notes state: 'A hole in the skull was located above the victim's right eye.'

But when the autopsy was conducted at MUSC Health University Medical Center, the manner of death was listed not as homicide but 'undetermined,' and it was ruled a hit and run.

A Netflix documentary explored their alleged relationship, though at the time Buster refused to give a comment

In the statement, shared by Alex Murdaugh's trial lawyer Jim Griffin, Buster called the claims as 'baseless' in March

Alex Murdaugh was convicted in March for the murders of his wife and son. He had long claimed that someone else was responsible for the murders

The case was investigated as a hit and run with cops pursuing a variety of lines of investigation and numerous tips.

Among those tips, and reported by FITSNews, was an anonymous one naming Paul and his brother 'Buster.'

Paul was indicted on three counts of boating under the influence in April 2019. But while awaiting trial, the 22-year-old was gunned down in 2021

In records seen by DailyMail.com it is noted that a tipster raised the question of whether, 'Stephen and Buster Murdaugh ever had any type of relationship.'

But when investigators followed up with the person who had called in, he said he was just repeating 'rumors.'

Investigative notes also show that officers quizzed one subject about whom they had received a tip-off.

The tip-off which came via anonymous email stated that, 'Dontereo Aiken along with another black male and a white male (Murdaugh) are the ones involved in the death.'

Investigators followed up on this and spoke with Aiken about his knowledge of, 'anyone with the last name Murdaugh.'

Aiken said that 'he knew one that graduated with the victim.' But when questioned, he himself denied being friends with any Murdaughs on Facebook and then appeared to indicate he was unsure.

Mallory Beach's family, the 19-year-old woman killed during a fatal late-night boat ride in 2019, has reached an out-of-court settlement with the grocery store that sold Paul Murdaugh beer

Beach, 19, was thrown from the boat when it crashed into Archers Creek Bridge, in Beaufort South Carolina, in 2019. Her body was found five days later

The six youths on board that night, who were under 21, were ejected from the vessel and all but Mallory Beach made it to shore. Her body wasn't found for a week

Officers subsequently found that Aiken was Facebook friends with Buster Murdaugh.

When pressed, he 'stated he never hang (sic) out with him or went to any parties hosted by the Murdaugh subjects.'

In another curious inclusion, an officer noted a tip called in on December 18 by a man claiming that his stepson had named a local guy as the one who 'struck and killed Stephen Smith.'

The tipster then failed to return any calls and when finally reached, 'stated that the reason that he was passing this information on was because Randy Murdaugh told him to call.'

Randy is Paul and Buster's uncle, patriarch Alex Murdaugh's brother. He offered to take Smith's case pro-bono at the time of his death.

Since then, two documentaries by HBO and Netflix have aired rumors that Buster was involved in a romantic relationship with Smith.

Archers Creek Bridge in Beaufort, South Carolina into which the boat crashed in 2019

The settlement will give the bulk of the money to the Beach family

Smith's sister Stephanie said that Alex Murdaugh's brother Randy Murdaugh called the family the day Smith was found dead informing him that he wanted to take the case free of charge.

Buster's interview also comes a month after the family of Mallory Beach reached a settlement of $15million out of court for her death.

Murtaugh's youngest son Paul was accused of driving the boat drunk in 2019, before crashing it and launching Beach out of the vehicle  killing her.

Her family made the settlement with the insurance company of the grocery store that sold Paul beer before the deadly crash.

The trial which had been planned for August 14 in Hampton County, South Carolina, will now be scrapped.

It is believed Paul, 19, borrowed Buster's ID in order for him to buy alcohol before the crash.
King Charles overruled Prince William by welcoming the disgraced Duke of York back in the royal family fold, it has been reported.

It comes as Prince Andrew was driven to a church service in Balmoral by the future King, while the Princess of Wales took the back seat, in a move branded as a 'public statement of togetherness'.

The outing - which was widely photographed - will have been a huge boost for the Duke, 63, who has been rallying for a return to public life.

Sources have now claimed that the monarch is calling for Prince Andrew, who lost his official duties following the Jeffrey Epstein sex scandal, to be welcomed back into the family - both publicly and privately.

The King has reportedly spoken to his brother on several occasions and decide while he should not return as a working royal, he should be welcomed back into the family fold.

King Charles overruled Prince William by welcoming the disgraced Duke of York back in the royal family fold

The King has reportedly spoken to his brother on several occasions and decide while he should not return as a working royal, he should be welcomed back into the family fold

One claimed that Prince William's 'wings' have been 'clipped somewhat' following the King's U-turn, as he had no desire to be spotted with Prince Andrew in public, other than during the late Queen's funeral and the King's coronation.

One Balmoral insider told the Mirror that there had been confusion over how Andrew would be traveling to the service in Scotland last Sunday, while the royals are on their summer holidays.

They added that travelling with the future King and Queen was 'more than he could have wished for'.

Both Prince William and King Charles had lobbied the late Queen to strip Andrew of his military titles and charity patronages when he paid Virginia Giuffre a huge 12 million after she accused him of sexual assault. He has always denied the claims.

After he made the payment, which meant he avoided a full trial in the US court, Prince William allegedly said he would boycott the Garter Parade at Windsor Castle if his uncle were allowed to join.

The late Queen had reportedly wished for her second oldest son to join but both King Charles and Prince William blocked the move over fears of a public 'backlash'.

An insider told the paper that William had no desire to be seen with Prince Andrew in public, other than event such as Christmas at Sandringham and the King' Coronation, even if he continued to spend time with him privately.

Rachael Maskell, Labour MP for York Central, who raised a bill in Parliament to strip the Duke of his royal title slammed the idea of rehabilitating Prince Andrew's public image.

Last week it was reported that Prince Andrew had launched a bid to win back his 3million a year armed security

The Duke of York, 63, lost his right to protection after he was stripped of his 'HRH' title and removed as a working senior royal following the fallout

She said: 'Any rehabilitation process in terms of a public role for Prince Andrew would be unpalatable, especially when the questionable acts that he was accused of involved the possible sexual misconduct against vulnerable women.

'We want to make sure the rights of women are upheld and I don't think we can have confidence that those would be a priority if Prince Andrew was welcomed back into any public role whatsoever.'

The King, however, is 'absolutely resolute' that the Prince will not return to royal duties, with insiders claiming there will be 'no change in tack' over his royal status.

A source told the Telegraph earlier this week: 'He has always been clear that the Duke is a much-loved member of the family, but that does not mean there will be a change in tack when it comes to his royal status.'

The Duke of York was said to have been invited on the royals summer trip to Balmoral by the King as an olive branch.

Royal commentator Richard Fitzwilliams told MailOnline the photographs of Prince Andrew travelling to church with the Waleses were 'clearly intended to send a 'message of family unity'.

But he insisted it was not a sign Andrew could return to public duties in any form.

'This is a sad time for the royal family on their customary break at Balmoral. They and the nation will shortly be commemorating a year since the death of the Queen,' Mr Fitzwilliams said.

'We know how close Andrew was to the late Queen, his appearance at the Duke of Edinburghs Memorial Service in March 2022, where he supported her physically whilst she was giving him emotional and financial support caused much controversy.

'It has been reported that his allowance has been cut. It was rumoured that his tenure at Royal Lodge in Windsor, which is his home, was in danger.

'He is also reportedly attempting to regain the police protection he lost when he stepped down from royal duties.'

But Mr Fitzwilliams added: 'It is important to stress that there is no possibility, as King Charles and Prince William have always realised, of him returning to public duties in any form.

'A glance at his non-existent popularity ratings in the polls make the public mood very clear on this issue.

'However, what is being emphasised is harmony on a personal level and clearly he and his immediate family, who are also at Balmoral, will appreciate this a great deal, especially as the photographs we see today are such a very public statement of togetherness.'

William drove a Land Rover Defender with his uncle in the front seat on the way to church and his wife, the Princess of Wales, sitting behind. The passengers swapped seats after the service.

The appearance followed revelations that a 'Tory grandee' appealed to Home Secretary Suella Braverman at a private function to restore Andrew's 3million-a-year police guards.

The Mail on Sunday said the top Tory 'sidled up' to Mrs Braverman to plead the duke's case after he lost his 24-hour armed detectives following the Epstein scandal.

The senior Tory, a knight, is one of several high-profile figures recruited by the Duke, it was reported. Another is said to have messaged Mrs Braverman.

All approaches are said to have been rejected.

Buckingham Palace and Kensington Palace declined to comment.
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has called for his military to be constantly ready for combat to thwart rivals' plots to invade his country, state media said on Tuesday.

It came as the U.S., South Korea and Japan held a trilateral naval exercise to deal with North Korea's evolving nuclear threats. The U.S. and South Korean militaries have been separately holding summer bilateral exercises since last week.

North Korea views such U.S.-involved training as an invasion rehearsal, though Washington and its partners maintain their drills are defensive.

Kim called President Joe Biden, South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida 'the gang bosses' of the three countries.

Kim said in a speech marking the country's Navy Day on Monday that the waters off the Korean Peninsula have been made unstable 'with the danger of a nuclear war' because of U.S.-led hostilities, according to the state-sponsored Korean Central News Agency.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and his young daughter review the honour guard during their visit to navy headquarters on Tuesday

Kim Jong Un visits the headquarters of North Korea's navy according to images provided by the Korean Central News Agency

He accused the U.S. of carrying out 'more frantic' naval drills with its allies and deploying strategic assets in waters around the Korean Peninsula.

He also cited a recent U.S.-South Korean-Japanese summit where an agreement to boost defense cooperation was reached to counter North Korea's nuclear program.

'The prevailing situation requires our navy to put all its efforts into rounding off the war readiness to maintain the constant combat alertness and get prepared to break the enemy's will for war in contingency,' he said.

South Korea's Foreign Ministry expressed deep regret over Kim's use of 'very rude language' to slander the South Korean, US and Japanese leaders.

Spokesman Lim Soosuk told reporters that North Korea must immediately stop acts that raise tensions with 'reckless threats and provocation'.

In Washington, Cho Hyundong, South Korea's ambassador to the U.S., said South Korean, U.S. and Japanese efforts to improve relations would not be deterred by Kim's rhetoric.

'The continued provocation and continued violation of multiple critical UN security resolutions by North Korea will only strengthen the trilateral security cooperation,' Cho said.

Earlier this month President Joe Biden (center), South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol (left) and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida (right) held their first-ever stand-alone trilateral summit at Camp David

Members of US Special Operations Command Korea and South Korea's Army Special Warfare Command take part in an Ulchi Freedom Shield exercise in Yangyang

He made the comments on Tuesday in an appearance at the Centre for Strategic and International Studies with Tomita Koji, Japan's ambassador to the U.S., and Kurt Campbell, a top adviser to Biden on Indo-Pacific affairs.

Tuesday's South Korean-U.S.-Japanese drills in international waters off South Korea's southern Jeju island involved naval destroyers from the three countries.

The training was aimed at mastering procedures for detecting, tracking and sharing information about incoming North Korean missiles, South Korea's navy said in a statement.

The U.S. and South Korean militaries began the 11-day bilateral drills on August 21.

The annual Ulchi Freedom Shield training is a computer-simulated command post exercise, but field exercises were included this year.

North Korea typically responds to U.S.-South Korean military drills with its own missile tests.

Last Thursday, its second attempt to launch a spy satellite into space failed.

The day the drills began, KCNA said Kim had observed the test-firings of strategic cruise missiles.

Since the beginning of 2022, North Korea has carried out more than 100 weapons tests, many of them involving nuclear-capable missiles designed to strike the U.S., South Korea and Japan.

Many experts say North Korea ultimately wants to use its boosted military capabilities to wrest greater concessions from the U.S.

The North's testing spree has forced the US and South Korea to expand their drills, resume trilateral training involving Japan, and enhance 'regular visibility' of US strategic assets to the Korean Peninsula.

In July, the U.S. deployed a nuclear-armed submarine to South Korea for the first time in four decades.

Earlier this month, the leaders of the U.S., South Korea and Japan held their first-ever stand-alone trilateral summit at Camp David.

During the meeting, they announced that they intend to put into operation by the end of the year the sharing of real-time missile warning data on North Korea and hold annual trilateral exercises.

Kim has been pushing hard to expand his nuclear arsenal and introduce a slew of sophisticated weapons systems.

During his Navy Day speech, he said that military units of each service will be given new weaponry in line with the government's decision to expand the operation of tactical nuclear weapons.

He said the navy will become 'a component of the state nuclear deterrence carrying out the strategic duty'.

This suggests North Korea will deploy new nuclear-capable missiles to its navy and other military services.

State media photos showed Kim visiting the navy headquarters with his daughter, reportedly named Ju Ae and aged about 10.

It was her first public appearance since mid-May.

Kim has taken her to a series of public events since November, sparking speculation about her political status.

South Korean officials say Kim has not anointed her as his heir.

However, they believe he is attempting to use her public appearances as a way to show his people that one of his children will one day inherit his power in what would be the country's third hereditary power transfer.
Dressed like a tourist, Yevgeny Prigozhin poses with wellwishers in what is thought to be the last photograph of him alive.

The warlord was buried yesterday in his home city six days after his death in a plane crash.

The Wagner chief was among ten people killed when his executive jet was sabotaged on a flight from Moscow to St Petersburg  soon after his return from a visit to Africa.

A private funeral took place in St Petersburg amid tight security  and also amid speculation that a body double, rather than Prigozhin, actually died in the crash.

There was no representative from the Kremlin, where Vladimir Putin is widely suspected of having plotted his former friend's assassination. Last Wednesday, Prigozhin's Embraer Legacy 600 plane was seen in flames before it plummeted to the ground north of Moscow.

Yevgeny Prigozhin posing with wellwishers while visiting the Central African Republic, in what is thought to be his last photo alive

A bomb is thought to have been detonated on the flight, although smoke trails seen may indicate the jet was targeted by a surface to air missile.

The latest photo, which emerged yesterday, shows the mercenary leader in the Central African Republic. CAR is one of many African states where Wagner has provided security to the ruling elites in return for a stake in the country's highly valuable natural resources.

Releasing the picture, the Wagner group bizarrely hailed the brutal Prigozhin as a 'second Nelson Mandela', writing that he was 'with the grateful people of Africa'. Prigozhin, who was usually seen wearing military fatigues, looks relaxed in jeans and a casual short-sleeved shirt.

Just hours later he began the fateful journey home which ended in his death. However, there was speculation yesterday that he is still alive.

A respected Russian political analyst suggested Prigozhin's body double was killed in the crash.

Dr Valery Solovey claimed the Kremlin was lying about Prigozhin's DNA being found at the crash site.

A portrait of Prigozhin in a makeshift memorial of the mercenary leader

The former professor at Moscow's prestigious Institute of International Relations said: 'Prigozhin himself was not on board. His body double was flying instead of him. By the way, Vladimir Putin is perfectly aware of that.

'If you believe the official statements of the Russian authorities, then what can I say?

'He intends to take revenge on the people who intended to destroy him and destroyed people close to him.'

In a statement on the Telegram social media platform, Prigozhin's press service said: 'The farewell to Yevgeny... took place in a closed format. Those who wish to say goodbye may visit Porokhovskoye cemetery.'

The Wagner chief died two months after leading a mutiny against the Kremlin which, briefly, looked likely to plunge Russia into civil war when Prigozhin and thousands of his soldiers drove from the Ukraine front towards Moscow. Putin banished him to Belarus as punishment.
Republicans have launched a formal inquiry in to the federal government's response to the Maui wildfires as they blast President Joe Biden's reaction to the blaze that has killed at least 115.

'The response by federal, state, and local officials to the catastrophic wildfire in Maui raises serious questions,' House Oversight Committee Chair James Comer said in a statement.

'As recovery efforts continue, the House Oversight Committee has a responsibility to ensure taxpayer dollars are being used efficiently and effectively. To minimize the risk of waste, fraud, and abuse of taxpayer dollars, the Oversight Committee will examine the federal government's response in Maui.'

Comer added that his committee would work with other committees 'to ensure accountability.'

Crosses honoring victims killed in a recent wildfire are posted along the Lahaina Bypass in Lahaina, Hawaii

Marine One carries President Joe Biden over the devastation on Aug. 21

Devastating wildfires decimated some 3,000 structures

The wildfires that broke out August 8 left the historic tourist town of Lahaina laying in rubble as they ripped through some 3,000 structures. Hundreds remain unaccounted for, which could drive the death toll beyond 115.

No single cause has yet been determined for the fires, but experts suggest power lines were not shut off despite high winds and may have caught fire when they fell.

Speaker Kevin McCarthy previewed the investigation last week.

'I think there's gonna have to be a congressional investigation in response of what happened. How could we lose that many Americans in today's age? And the federal response seems very delayed,' he said.

Biden, who visited Maui last Monday, faced criticism from the start for his response to the fires when he told a reporter he had 'no comment' while he lounged on the beach in Delaware.

The White House later said that he did not hear the reporter's question about Maui when he made the remark.

His visit to the island was always going to be contentious, and the president's motorcade was drove past both boos and jeers, with some showing their middle finger and waving Trump 2024 flags.

The president's speech promised Maui the federal government's support would be 'with you as long as it takes.'

'The country grieves with you, stands with you, and we'll do everything possible to help you recover, rebuild, and respect culture and traditions when the rebuilding takes place.'

But otherwise Biden did little to endear himself to the traumatized islanders, delivering a rambling speech referencing the death of his wife and baby daughter in 1972, and later telling an anecdote about a 2004 kitchen fire in his Delaware home.

Biden approved an emergency declaration hours after the fire broke out and deployed hundreds of federal workers there to assist with the fallout.

'Whatever you need, you're going to get,' he told residents.

Weeks after the fire, cell service and access to electricity has been spotty at best, and survivors said they struggled to find housing, medical aid and daily necessities.

Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has pledged one-time $700 payments for necessities to nearly all households affected by the fires, in addition to doling out food and other essentials at camps set up to house displaced residents.

'The response by federal, state, and local officials to the catastrophic wildfire in Maui raises serious questions,' House Oversight Committee Chair James Comer said in a statement

Biden, who visited Maui last Monday, faced criticism from the start for his response to the fires when he told a reporter he had 'no comment' while he lounged on the beach in Delaware

DailyMail.com revealed last week that FEMA responders dispatched to Maui have been lodging in luxury at $1,000-a-night hotels a 45 minute drive away from fire-ravaged town of Lahaina.

FEMA surged up to 1,000 agents to the Hawaiian island to assist with the response, and teams have checked in at three five-star hotels - the Fairmont Kea Lani, Four Seasons, and the Grand Wailea Astoria where past guests include members of Hollywood's elite.

Meanwhile, Maui's top emergency management official resigned earlier this month after finding himself in hot water for failing to sound the island's alarm system as the blaze closed in.

Herman Andaya, the administrator of the Maui Emergency Management Agency, had defended his decision not to sound the alarms as he said he feared coastal residents would think the ringing signaled a tsunami and flee inland toward the flames.

'The public is trained to seek higher ground in the event that the siren is sounded,' he said.
The graduate student charged with fatally shooting his professor at the University of North Carolina has been charged in the slaying at the school's flagship Chapel Hill campus.

Tailei Qi, 34, made his first court appearance on Tuesday, and faces charges of first-degree murder and felony possession of a weapon on campus in the slaying of physics professor Zijie Yan.

During a brief hearing, Orange County Superior Court Judge Sherri Murrell ordered Qi to be held without bond, as an interpreter relayed the judge's remarks to him in Mandarin.

When the hearing ended, Qi bowed to his interpreter, his attorney and the guards before they took him away in handcuffs. Dana Graves, a public defender who represented Qi at the hearing, left the courtroom without talking to reporters.

Orange County District Attorney Jeff Nieman will not seek the death penalty for Qi, after vowing not to seek execution for any defendants when running for office two years ago.

Tailei Qi, 34, made his first court appearance on Tuesday, and faces charges of first-degree murder and felony possession of a weapon on campus

During a brief hearing, Orange County Superior Court Judge Sherri Murrell ordered Qi to be held without bond, as an interpreter relayed the judge's remarks to him in Mandarin

Qi's next court date has been set for September 18.

Authorities haven't publicly discussed a possible motive for the attack, which unfolded on Monday afternoon in a campus lab.

The victim, Yan, was an associate professor in the Department of Applied Physical Sciences who had worked at the school since 2019. He was shot dead in Caudill Labs.

The attack led to a roughly three-hour lockdown of the campus, just a week after students returned for the start of the fall semester.

UNC Chancellor Kevin Guskiewicz said in a message to the campus community his team had met with Yans colleagues and family to express condolences on behalf of the campus.

'He was a beloved colleague, mentor and friend to many on our campus,' Guskiewicz said.

On Wednesday, the schools iconic Bell Tower will ring in honor of Yans memory and students are encouraged to take a moment of silence, he wrote. The school also canceled classes through Wednesday.

In a page that has been taken down since the attack, Qi was listed on the school's website as a graduate student in Yan's research group and Yan was listed as his adviser.

He previously studied at Wuhan University in China before moving to the US and earning a masters in mechanical engineering at Louisiana State University in 2021.

The accused killer Qi (left) was a graduate student in the victim, Yan's, research group and Yan (right) was listed as his adviser

Qi is escorted out of the Orange County Courthouse following his first court appearance on Tuesday in Hillsborough, North Carolina

Qi has been charged by the UNC Police Department with first-degree murder and possession of a weapon on educational property, both felony charges

The judge ordered Qi, a University of North Carolina graduate student, held without bond on charges alleging he shot and killed his faculty advisor

Qi, who lives in Chapel Hill, was arrested soon after the shooting, with local news footage appearing to show him surrendering to cops without incident.

'To actually have the suspect in custody gives us an opportunity to figure out the why and even the how, and also helps us to uncover a motive and really just why this happened today. Why today, why at all?' UNC Police Chief Brian James said.

'And we want to learn from this incident and we will certainly work to do our best to ensure that this never happens again on the UNC campus.'

Campus police received a 911 call reporting shots fired at Caudill Labs just after 1 pm Monday, James said.

An emergency alert was issued and sirens sounded two minutes later, starting a lockdown led frightened students and faculty to barricade themselves inside dorm rooms, classrooms and other school facilities.

Officers arriving at the lab building found a faculty member who had been fatally shot, James said. Based on witness information, police took the suspect into custody just after 2.30pm, according to the chief.

Jones declined to elaborate on the arrest, but TV station WRAL reported it took place in a residential neighborhood near campus.

The lockdown was lifted around 4.15pm.

Yan led the Yan Research Group, which Qi joined last year, according to the groups UNC webpage.

He earned his PhD in materials engineering from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in New York and previously worked as an assistant professor at Clarkson University.

Qi is a graduate student in the Department of Applied Physical Sciences who studies nanopartical synthesis and light-matter interaction.

Qi (second right) and his academic advisor Yan (left) were seen in a photograph previously circled by the college before the horror attack on Monday

Qi can be seen in an image provided to WRAL sitting on the ground about a mile away from the campus, wearing a dark colored shirt and glasses

The shooting struck fear into the campus.

Noel Harris, a senior journalism student, said she spent several confusing and scary hours locked down in a media management and policy class reading news coverage, listening to police scanners and waiting for updates from the university about whether the campus was still in danger.

When a police officer came by to check on her classroom, those inside asked him to slide his badge under the door first, out of caution, Harris said.

The officer told the classroom the campus was being cleared and they were safe but still recommended they hold tight until an all-clear was issued.

Soon after, Harris started seeing people carefully climbing out of the windows of an adjacent building, a scene she captured on now widely-shared video.

'That's when I then saw the students jumping from the building. So it was just like, OK, so is it really safe? What's going on?' she said.

She said Tuesday she was still trying to get clarity about what led the students to exit through the windows of Phillips Hall, which houses mathematics and other classes and was not the scene of the shooting.

'When this was happening ... I felt myself just being scared and shocked, but then not shocked at the same time because it's like, this happens every day,' Harris said.

The university has about 20,000 undergraduate students and 12,000 graduate students.
Anthony Albanese will announce the official date of the Indigenous Voice to Parliament referendum today in the must-win state of South Australia.

Speculation favours October 14 as the most likely date for the referendum that would enshrine in the constitution an Indigenous Voice to Parliament, aimed at giving Aboriginal Australians a direct role in the country's political decisions.

Mr Albanese has long maintained confidence that the referendum would succeed despite opinion polls showing marginal majority support for the Voice waning in recent months as the public debate has become more heated and divisive.

'I think people will begin to focus more. I expect that many Australians won't focus until the last few weeks,' Albanese told reporters. 'A majority of Australians will come to an answer that there's nothing to lose here, only upside.'

The Yes campaign will need a majority of Australians and a majority in at least four of the six states in order to succeed. Only eight of 44 referendums have succeeded in Australia's 122 year history - all with bipartisan support.

The Australian Electoral Commission (AEC) will deliver 13million information pamphlets to Australian households over the next few weeks.

'From aged care facilities to suburban homes, from outback stations, to high-rise apartments, we're working with Australia Post to deliver the pamphlets right around the country,' Australian electoral officer Nye Coffey said.

Anthony Albanese will announce the official date of the Indigenous Voice to Parliament referendum today in the must-win state of South Australia

The announcement marks the start of an intense six-week campaign during which the Prime Minister and his team will aim to sway millions of undecided voters

Yes campaigner Noel Pearson said South Australia's vote would be crucial to ensure the Yes campaign wins a majority in at least four of six states.

Warren Mundine, a No campaigner, said the final push would be 'a real battle for the hearts and minds of the Australian public out there'.

The latest polls have support for the Voice slumping in every state, and according to the latest Newspoll surveys the 'Yes' vote is ahead in only SA and NSW.

The votes are evenly split in Victoria, while the 'No' vote is leading in WA, Queensland, and Tasmania.

There are still 4.6million undecided voters, with both campaigns now tasked with persuading at least 38 per cent of those who remain unsure.

Both remain confident they can still win over voters across the board.

Insiders within the Yes campaign say internal polling suggests the majority of Australians remain undecided or 'soft' in their positions.

Last week Mr Albanese said the Voice was about 'just three things'.

'Recognising First Nations people in our founding document, our Constitution,' he said.

'Secondly, giving them a Voice - an advisory body to government so that government can listen and so that we can get better results.

'A Yes vote is a vote to give respect to Indigenous Australians... an opportunity to lift our nation up, to show that we're a confident and mature nation who can come to terms with the fullness and richness of our history.

'If not now, when?'

Mr Albanese has ruled out legislating a Voice to parliament if the bid for constitutional reform falls short, saying he will respect Australia's wishes.

The Yes camp is anticipated to ramp up campaigning for the Voice over the coming weeks as polls show support amongst the public continues to dip.

A RedBridge survey taken earlier this month found the No campaign with a huge 56-44 lead over the Yes side. This comes as a Guardian Essential Poll had the No side at 47 per cent and Yes at 43 per cent.

Ending months of speculation, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese will officially announce the date in the must-win state of South Australia next week and kick off a six-week campaign

Both polls are an indicator that people's views are hardening as it's the first time people have been surveyed since the launch of campaign information pamphlets by both camps in July.

The push to change the constitution has also revealed income and education divides - the more educated or well off a person is, the more likely they are to support Yes.

Two-thirds of people with a Year 12 and TAFE education plan to vote No, while 56 per cent of degree holders support Yes, the poll, carried out for News Corp, found.

Similarly, two-thirds of people with annual household incomes below $50,000 a year also plan to vote No.

The Voice is even more unpopular with Protestants and voters aged over 65 - around 75 per cent in each category planning to vote No.

Other groups supporting the Voice are those aged 18-34 (63 per cent in favour) and those speaking a language other than English at home (59 per cent backing Yes)
A man angry about being woken up at his subway trains last stop in upper Manhattan beat the NYC Transit train operator with a pipe, police said Tuesday.

The train operator took the C train out of service at the end of its line at the 168th St. station in Washington Heights about 11:45 p.m. Sunday, and asked lingering passengers to disembark.

A man whod been sleeping on the train woke up, and started arguing with the train operator, cops said.

As the quarrel escalated, the sleepy rider also pulled a box cutter on the trains conductor, according to a source with knowledge of the incident.

Within minutes, the man then brandished a pipe and attacked the train operator. He struck the MTA employee repeatedly in the face with the pipe before running out of the station, cops said.

Medics took the train operator to New York-Presbyterian Hospital Columbia, where he was treated and released.

A spokesman for Transport Workers Local 100, which represents the train operator, said he required 15 stitches and suffered two broken teeth.

Richard Davey, the president of NYC Transit, said Tuesday the victim is shaken up but recovering.

These instances ? one is too many, and we have more than that  are outrageous, Davey added. Assaults, whether on conductors, bus operators, cleaners  it just has to stop.

On Aug. 3, a career criminal with more than 100 arrests was arrested for randomly attacking a Manhattan MTA traffic checker. Suspect Kenneth Gore, 64, was sitting on a bench on the No. 4 train platform at the 59th St. station in Midtown just before 7 p.m. on Thursday when he suddenly kicked the 43-year-old woman in the lower back, cops said.

Davey noted that crime is down in the citys subway system from last year, but said one assault is too many.

This is something that keeps me up at night, Davey said. Im obsessed with it  keeping our people safe.

Local 100 President Richard Davis, said Tuesday that while subway crime was down for riders, it has risen for transit workers.

Felony and misdemeanor assaults against us are up, Davis said in a statement. Spitting incidents  yes, people spit on transit workers regularly  are also up.

According to the union, assaults against subway workers have risen 63% since this time last year.

We are seeing more police officers in the subway system, which is a good thing, Davis said. But were also seeing the same people get arrested repeatedly, only to get released and come right back to the stations, trains and platforms, where they again are a threat.

Cops on Tuesday released surveillance images of the suspect, who wore a gray sweatshirt and bucket hat, in the hopes someone recognizes him. He was carrying a silver suitcase as he fled the station, cops said.

Anyone with information is asked to call Crime Stoppers at (800) 577-TIPS.
A traffic controller has died after allegedly being struck down by a car while working on an inner-city Melbourne freeway.

The 58-year-old man had parked his ute on the outbound lanes of the Eastern Freeway when he was allegedly struck by the 27-year-old driver of a Toyota sedan just after midnight on Wednesday.

Emergency services rushed to the scene near Hoddle St in Clifton Hill at 12.15 am, where a damaged car and knocked-over safety cones were still present.

The traffic warden was taken to hospital, but later died, Victoria Police said.

The driver of the Toyota, who did not sustain any physical injuries, was taken to the hospital and subsequently arrested by police.

A traffic controller has died after being allegedly struck down by a car while working on a Melbourne freeway (pictured is the scene near Hoddle St on the Eastern Freeway)

The traffic controller had parked his ute (left) on the outbound lanes of the Eastern Freeway when the accident occurred just after midnight on Wednesday morning

Police believe speed may have been a factor in the alleged collision.

The 27-year-old driver is assisting police with their inquiries.

Major Collision Investigation Unit detectives are investigating the circumstances surrounding the crash.

Several bus routes will be affected, with commuters urged to check the public transport website before their trip.

'The Eastern Freeway is expected to be closed for some time while investigators process the scene,' Victoria Police said.

All outbound traffic on Alexandra Pde is being diverted via Wellington Street to Queens Pde and Heidelberg Rd to the Chandler Highway.

All northbound traffic on Hoddle St can continue to Heidelberg Rd.

Anyone with dashcam footage or information about the crash is urged to contact Crime Stoppers.

WorkSafe has been notified. The death brings Victoria's annual road toll to 191.
This is the horrifying moment that three passengers in a tower block lift were sent crashing into its ceiling as it plummeted like a theme park ride.

The three passengers were descending in the elevator of a block of flats in the city of Changsha, Hunan Province, China, when it juddered to a halt at the fourth floor and refused to move.

As the passengers tried anxiously pressing buttons, hoping to get it to move, it suddenly dropped - the acceleration so rapid that the trio were sent flying into the air, crashing into the sides and the top of the lift.

One rider is flung skywards so violently that he crashes into the ceiling - before gravity catches up with him and drops him on top of the other two passengers, who were thrown against the walls.

All three can be seen writhing in pain on the floor in the aftermath of the lift's violent descent on Saturday August 26 - with one reportedly suffering damage to their spine.

Passengers in the lift in Changsha, China, were sent flying in the freak incident

One passenger reportedly suffered two fractures to their lumbar - the lower part of the spine - while another escaped with just bruised legs

The passengers can be seen anxiously trying buttons as the lift judders to a halt

They look around anxiously as they wonder what to do next - unaware of the terrifying experience they're about to go through

In a CCTV clip published by the New York Post, the three occupants of the lift can be seen trying buttons and anxiously looking around as the lift sits at a standstill.

As the lift enters freefall and the passengers crash into the walls and ceiling, the person filming the camera clip on their phone exclaims: 'O, wo de tian a' - Chinese for 'Oh my God'.

Li, one of the passengers on the lift, told news agency Newsflare: 'Everything was spinning. We were all thrown in the air before crashing onto the floor.'

He said the lift 'stopped while descending' and 'wouldn't budge' before it crashed to the ground in a scene straight out of a Disneyland ride.

Li said he only suffered minor bruising to his legs, but another passenger reportedly fractured two lumbar bones in their lower back.

A woman named Wu, who said she was the wife of the man who suffered broken bones, added: 'Had there been elderly or children inside the elevator at the time, I dread to think what could have happened.'

Residents have reportedly expressed concerns about the lift to property managers in the past.

The passengers are seen sitting on the ground in pain after the lift crashes to a halt

Images taken by the passengers in the lift show the horrific aftermath of the incident

Medics attend to those injured in the lift. Management at the block said it will pay the medical expenses of all those hurt

Representatives for the building management said they are cooperating with the fire department, and sent representatives to accompany the injured to hospital.

They are reported to have pledged to pay all medical expenses connected to the incident.

Otis, which manufactures the lift involved, said it was sending technicians to examine and repair the machinery.

The experience bears a chilling resemblance to the Disneyland ride The Tower of Terror, which is inspired by classic sci-fi anthology show The Twilight Zone.

On the ride, passengers board a ride carriage styled to resemble the service elevator of a 1930s Hollywood hotel - and are hoisted nearly 200ft into the air before dropping 130ft into darkness.

Earlier this year, a woman in Indonesia died after forcing open the doors of a lift in an airport and stepping into an empty lift shaft - unaware that the correct doors had opened behind her.
A Tennessee woman has been charged with murder after fatally shooting a four-year-old girl, putting a gun to her chest and pulling the trigger in what she initially claimed was 'firearm safety training'.

Breanna Runions, 25, was arrested on Sunday after four-year-old Evangaline Gunter was shot dead.

After the shooting in Rockwood, Tennessee, Runions and her girlfriend put the child in a car and drove to seek medical help, calling 911 as they drove.

They met EMTs in a Walmart parking lot, WBIR reported, and the child was taken to hospital and pronounced dead on arrival.

Runions told police that she had ensured the gun was unloaded, and pointed it at her chest as a firearm lesson. But her girlfriend contradicted her, WBIR said.

Breanna Runions, 25, is pictured in a Roane County mugshot. She is accused of murder

Four-year-old Evangaline Gunter was shot and killed on Sunday in Rockwood, Tennessee

The girlfriend said that Evangaline and a second seven-year-old child were being punished by Runions after they failed to wake the two adults up.

The children were also in trouble for eating food that belonged to Runions' girlfriend.

Runions is believed to have been put in charge of Evangaline by the courts: her relationship with the child, and the seven-year-old, is not known.

Runions' girlfriend said that Runions hit both children with a sandal and ordered the pair to stand in separate corners of the adults' bedroom.

The girlfriend said Runions then took out a gun and removed the magazine, then called Evangaline over and shot her in the chest.

Officials said that the girlfriend and the seven-year-old were in the room during the shooting but had their backs to the scene and did not witness the trigger being pulled: the bullet hit a glass bottle, and shards struck the other child.

Runions remains in jail, on a $1.5 million bond. A grand jury hearing will likely be held in February, said Russell Johnson, the district attorney.

Johnson said the department of children's services is investigating, and there had been previous reports to the DCS regarding the children living in the home.

Evangaline's parents Josie and Adam Gunter told WBIR that their daughter was sent there by the courts, but was only supposed to be there for two more months.

'I feel like it's my fault that I let her be there. I should have been more attentive,' said Josie Gunter.

'I wish I could have been a better mother for her, to pay attention.

Evangaline's parents Josie and Adam Gunter that their daughter was sent there by the courts, but was only supposed to be there for two more months

Runions is pictured with the little girl who she shot and killed in what she initially claimed was 'firearm safety training'

Runions' girlfriend said Runions became enraged when the little girl failed to wake her up, and stole some of their food

'But it was a court decision in everything that we had done this for and this is what happens.

'Her hugs were so full of life and love. That's the one thing I'm gonna miss the most, is her hugs and her smile.'

Adam Gunter said children should be kept away from guns.

'Don't have your guns out,' he said.

'You're supposed to be gun-smart. Don't have the gun out.'
Footage shows the moment a woman had a package stolen in Suburban Virginia - while the deliveryperson was still bringing the package directly to her door.

The now viral doorbell camera clip shows the surprisingly bold instance of porch piracy in full - and how the still-at large suspect dashed directly to his BMW after snatching the package and ultimately drove off unhindered.

The incident occurred in a suburb of Virginia outside of Richmond Thursday, while Jessica Saenz was working from her home on Bison Ford Drive.

Speaking to several outlets this week, she recalled how the surprisingly bold incident of porch piracy unfolded - first with a frantic knocking on the door from the just-robbed delivery driver.

Having interrupted her work meeting, the sound led Saenz to get up and answer the door - to find out that the package the female FedEx worker was delivering, an iPad ordered by her husband, had only seconds ago been stolen.

Footage shows the moment a woman had a package stolen in Suburban Virigina, while the deliveryperson was still bringing it to her door - before making off in a BMW despite being caught on camera.

The incident occurred in a suburb of Virginia outside of Richmond Thursday, while homeowner Jessica Saenz (seen her( was working from her home on Bison Ford Drive. The package, now lost, had contrained an iPad purchased for her by her husband

She checked her doorbell camera to investigate - and immediately saw how the brazen bandit ran up from behind the woman and snagged it right out of hands.

With the suspect still at large, Saenz lamented the current state of her neighborhood, which is set in the relatively sleepy village of Chesterfield.

'They don't even care that there's a camera there,' Saenz told WRIC of the mask-less suspect, whom she said told the FedEx staffer he lived at her home before rushing in for the grab.

'I was in a meeting and then the FedEx lady started knocking on my door like, really hard,' she recalled, visibly frustrated and now out of her expensive parcel.

'I'm like, 'What's going on?''

When she checked the doorbell camera to see what had happened, she said she could not believe her eyes.

Her neighbor, while out walking his dog, saw it all unfold in person - and said that despite a recent spike of similar incidents across the US, he was similarly perplexed by just how brazen the theft was.

'It's kind of crazy,' said Johnny Eubanks of the robbery, which is considered a federal offense that could lead to five years in prison.

'I've never seen anything like that before,' he remarked.

'Usually people are sneaky about it - people are pretty desperate now.'

She checked her doorbell camera to investigate - and immediately saw how the brazen bandit ran up from behind the woman and snagged it right out of hands

'It's kind of crazy,' said neighbor Johnny Eubanks or the robbery, which he witnessed in full while walking his dog. 'Usually people are sneaky about it - people are pretty desperate now'

The now viral doorbell camera clip shows the surprisingly bold instance of porch piracy in full - and how the suspect dashed directly to his BMW after snatching the package and drove off. Local cops said they have tied the car to another robber that occurred in the town last month

Cops in the town of 3,500 are now using the footage to track down the suspect - whose getaway car was apparently involved in another robber that occurred in the area last month.

Seen wearing a white T-shirt and jeans in the now viral footage, the suspect remains on the run, and despite his closeup, has yet to be identified.

The Chesterfield County Police Department said it is investigating the incident. DailyMail.com has reached out to FedEx for comment.
Burger King is being sued in a proposed class action lawsuit by customers seeking at least $5 million each after the fast food giant is claimed to have portrayed their Whopper burgers as 35% larger in advertisements.

Customers in the action have accused the fast food giant of showcasing the burgers with ingredients that 'overflow over the bun.'

They say that these make it appear that the burgers are 35% larger and contain more than double the meat as the chain serves.

Burger King has countered that it wasn't required to deliver burgers that look 'exactly like the picture.'

U.S. District Judge Roy Altman in Miami said that the company must defend the claim and that it was up to jurors to 'tell us what reasonable people think.'

The plaintiffs in the case say that they had been sold burgers much smaller than those advertised

Customers in the action have accused the fast food giant of showcasing burgers with ingredients that 'overflow over the bun'

In his decision made public on Friday, Altman also let the customers pursue negligence-based and unjust enrichment claims.

He dismissed claims based on TV and online ads, finding none in which Burger King promised a burger 'size,' or patty weight, and failed to deliver it.

The plaintiffs in the case are Walter Coleman, Marco DiLeonardo, Matthew Fox and Madelyn Salzman.

Coleman is participating in the suit after purchasing a Whopper and a Big King at a Burger King store in Florida.

In the suit, he said he expected the burgers to be of a similar size to the pictures on the advertisements.

Coleman says in the suit that had he known the burgers were much smaller he would not have purchased them.

DiLeonardo had bought a Whopper, Big King and a Whopper Melt while at a store in the state of New York.

He too said in the suit that had he known the true size of the burgers, he would not have spent his money on them.

Burger King has countered that it wasn't required to deliver burgers that look 'exactly like the picture'. A restaurant in Daly City, California, is pictured here

Similarly, Fox also purchased a Whopper and a Big King, and Salzman bought a Big King Burger, both later regretting it.

McDonald's and Wendy's are defending against a similar lawsuit in the Brooklyn, New York federal court.

Taco Bell, a unit of Yum Brands, was sued last month in the Brooklyn court for selling Crunchwraps and Mexican pizzas that allegedly contain only half as much filling as advertised.

The plaintiffs' lawyer there on Monday cited Altman's opinion to justify letting that case continue.

Each lawsuit seeks at least $5 million in damages.

A Burger King spokesperson told DailyMail.com: 'The plaintiffs claims are false. The flame-grilled beef patties portrayed in our advertising are the same patties used in the millions of Whopper sandwiches we serve to Guests nationwide.'
Vladimir Putin suffered his worst night of bombardment of the war as Ukraine hit back at Russia with a series of drone strikes deep into enemy territory.

Russian military aircraft were damaged and civilian aviation was disrupted in the drone attacks, Russian officials said, citing Pskov, Bryansk, Kaluga, Orlov, Ryazan and Moscow regions as targeted, as well as Russian-occupied Crimea.

Most of the drones were reportedly shot out of the skies by Russian air defences.

But the most significant attack saw drones strike Pskov airport in western Russia just 20 miles from the border of Estonia - resulting in the destruction of two heavy military Il-76 transport planes and damage to two more, reports said.

Footage shared on social media showed huge explosions lighting up the night's sky over the airport that sits 40 miles from the neighbouring Baltic, NATO and European Union states of Estonia and Latvia.

The strikes came as Ukraine also suffered a massive overnight attack, described as the 'most powerful' barrage of missiles since the spring.

Authorities said two people were killed, as Russia claimed it destroyed four Ukrainian boats in the Black Sea carrying up to 50 soldiers.

The sky is illuminated by fire in Pskov following an alleged drone attack that is understood to have destroyed two heavy military Il-76 transport planes and damaged two more

Footage from Pskov appears to show the wreckage of a destroyed plane on the tarmac in Pskov

An image shared by regional governor Mikhail Vedernikov of the attack at Pskov airport. He said the Russian defence ministry was 'repelling a drone attack'

Flames and smoke are seen in the distance of this photograph looking out over the city of Pskov, Russia, overnight after a suspected drone attack targeted an airport

Ukraine, which has yet to achieve a major success in its summer ground counteroffensive, has struck deep into Russia in recent months, including an attack on the Kremlin in May and numerous drone attacks on civilian targets in Moscow.

Ukraine typically does not comment on who is behind attacks on Russian territory, although officials have publicly expressed satisfaction over them.

Confirming the attack on the Princess Olga Pskov Airport, a Russian emergencies ministry source said: 'As a result of a drone attack, four Il-76 planes were damaged. A fire broke out. Two aircraft are engulfed in flames.'

The planes are used to transport military equipment and troops to the war zone.

Officials announced the closure of the airport - a military airbase that doubles as a civilian airport - throughout today as runway damage was assessed.

The strike in northwest Russia was almost 500 miles from the nearest Ukrainian territory, demonstrating a new reach by Kyiv in its UAV attacks.

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Footage of the Pskov attack filmed from around 1.2 miles away shows explosions lighting up the sky; videos believed to have been filmed later show huge fires burning.

Russian officials have claimed that the attack is being conducted using drones; regional governor Mikhail Vedernikov said in a statement that defence forces were 'repelling a drone attack'.

He shared the message, along with video footage of a burning fire in Pskov, on his personal channel on the messaging app Telegram. According to initial reports, he said, there were no injuries.

TASS, quoting emergency services, said four Il-76 transport aircraft, long the workhorse of the Russian military, were damaged at the military airfield.

'As a result of the drone attack, four Il-76 aircraft were damaged. A fire broke out and two planes burst into flames,' TASS reported.

The airspace around Moscow's Vnukovo airport was also closed early on Wednesday, TASS news agency quoted Russian aviation officials as saying.

The attack came as Kyiv was targeted early Wednesday by the 'most powerful' barrage of missiles and drones since the spring, authorities said, with two people reported dead, as Russia claimed it destroyed four Ukrainian boats in the Black Sea carrying up to 50 soldiers.

More than 20 missiles and drones were 'destroyed by air defence forces' overnight, the Kyiv City Military Administration wrote on Telegram, describing the aerial assault as 'the most powerful' to hit the city since the spring.

An AFP reporter heard at least three loud explosions in the centre of Kyiv around 5:00 am (0200 GMT).

Two people had died as a result of falling debris, Sergiy Popko, head of the Kyiv City Military Administration, wrote on Telegram.

Another person was injured and was being given medical assistance, he said.

Kyiv was also targeted early Wednesday by the 'most powerful' barrage of missiles and drones since the spring, authorities said, with two people reported dead

Smoke rises in the sky over the city after a Russian missile strike on Kyiv, Ukraine August 30

A view shows at the site of an area hit by a Russian drone and missile strikes strike, amid Russia's attack on Ukraine, in Kyiv region, Ukraine August 30

Firefighters put out a fire after a Russian rocket attack in Kyiv, August 30

Rescuers work at a site of buildings damaged overnight by Russian drone and missiles strike, amid Russia's attack on Ukraine, in Kyiv region, August 30

A local resident looks at the fragments of a Russian rocket in a city park after a rocket attack in Kyiv, Ukraine, August 30

A woman stands inside a grocery store, damaged by a shock wave of a missile strike in Kyiv

Russian forces had launched groups of Iranian-made Shahed attack drones at the capital from different directions, and launched missiles from aircraft, the Kyiv city military administration said.

And law enforcement cordoned off forested territory where tangled pieces of metal had landed following the overnight attack.

Russia systematically targeted Ukrainian cities early in the invasion launched last year but massive strikes have lessened as Moscow's stockpiles depleted and Ukraine bolstered its air defences.

Earlier, Moscow's defence ministry said a Russian aircraft 'destroyed four high-speed military boats' in the Black Sea around midnight Moscow time (2100 GMT Tuesday).

The boats had been carrying 'landing groups of Ukrainian special operations forces with a total number of up to 50 people,' the ministry said on Telegram.

It did not give details on exactly where in the Black Sea the incident took place.

Early Wednesday, Russian defences also repelled a 'seaborne drone attack near' near Sevastopol Bay in Crimea, the local Moscow-installed governor Mikhail Razvozhayev was cited as saying by the state-run TASS news agency.

Sevastopol is the base of Russia's Black Sea fleet.

Both Ukraine and Russia have ramped up activity around the strategic waterway after a United Nations-brokered deal to ensure safe navigation for grain ships collapsed last month.

In recent weeks, Kyiv has attacked Russian ships in its waters and the Crimean Peninsula, which was annexed by Moscow in 2014.

Last week, Ukraine said its forces had flown the country's flag in Crimea during a 'special operation' to mark its second wartime Independence Day.

Moscow's defence ministry also said last week that one of its jets destroyed a Ukrainian 'reconnaissance boat' near Russian gas production facilities in the Black Sea.

The drone attacks came as US Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced a new package of military assistance to aid Ukraine in its fight against Russia, which launched a full-scale invasion of its neighbour on February 24, 2022.

The package includes additional mine-clearing equipment, missiles for air defence, plus ammunition for artillery and small arms, Blinken said in a statement.

Ukraine is using vast amounts of ammunition in some of the heaviest fighting of the war as its presses its summer counter-offensive in the south and east, where Russian forces are deeply entrenched.

Pictured: Four Russian military Il-76 cargo planes are seen in this file photo. It is understood that two of the planes were destroyed overnight at an airport in Pskov, and two more damaged

Regional governor Mikhail Vedernikov (seen here on the right with Russian president Vladimir Putin) said there were no injuries reported in the attack on Pskov

On Tuesday the Russian mercenary chief Yevgeny Prigozhin was buried in a leafy cemetery on the outskirts of St Petersburg, six days after he was killed in an unexplained plane crash north of Moscow.

Prigozhin, two top lieutenants of his Wagner group and four bodyguards were among 10 people who died when his Embraer Legacy 600 private jet crashed in unexplained circumstances on Aug. 23.

He died two months after staging a brief mutiny against the Russian defence establishment, in the biggest challenge to President Vladimir Putin's rule since he rose to power in 1999.

Moscow says it is investigating the crash and has denied any involvement, but in Washington White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre gave her strongest statement yet about the possibility that Putin directed the killing.

'We all know that the Kremlin has a long history of killing opponents,' she said. 'It's very clear what happened here.'

Meanwhile, the president of Moldova, which borders Ukraine to the south-west, predicted that her country would be the next victim of a would-be Russian incursion like that suffered by Ukraine almost 18 months ago.

Maia Sandu, the president of Moldova. She has warned that Putin will try to crush Moldova next if it succeeds in claiming Ukraine

President Sandu with Volodymyr Zelenskyy, the president of Ukraine. She has called on 'strong' countries to continue supporting the beleaguered nation in its defence against Russia

President Sandu addresses crowds on Moldova's Independence Day on August 27. The country seceded from the Soviet Union in 1991 but Sergey Lavrov has said it will be 'the next Ukraine' in remarks widely seen as a thinly veiled threat to the country's sovereignty

Sergey Lavrov, Putin's foreign minister, described Moldova as 'the next Ukraine' earlier this year in a remark widely seen as a threat. Just this week, Moldova celebrated its 32nd Independence Day after seceding from the Soviet Union in 1991.

Moldovan president Maia Sandu told The Times that Vladimir Putin 'does not respect sovereignty and independence' and claimed that intelligence services thwarted an attempted coup by the Kremlin earlier this year.

President Sandu said the takeover would have seen Russian agents seizing government buildings and taking hostages, after Moscow sought to weaken the small nation by cutting gas and electricity supplies.

She told The Times: 'Russia does not want Moldova to advance on its EU path. Russia wants Moldova to stay part of the grey zone to use it in its fight against the democratic world.'

If Ukraine is lost, she fears its neighbour to the south-west will be next.

She added: 'The democratic world needs to help Moldova and Ukraine. Preserving Ukraine and Moldova as democracies is good not only for the people of these countries, but also for the people of Europe, as well as the world.'

Russian anti-air defences in action in the Tula region, south of Moscow, on August 25. Ukraine has launched a number of offences inside Russia and Russian-controlled territory

Ukraine has launched a number of offences on military targets inside Russia in recent days, including a bombardment of the Shaykovka airfield south-west of Moscow.

The bombardment came during what may have been the busiest night of Ukrainian attacks on Russia and Russian-held territory during the war.

Two major Moscow international airports - Vnukovo and Domodedovo - were closed, leading to significant disruption for incoming and outgoing planes.

Russian air defences were also in action in Tula region, south of the capital, which borders Kaluga region amid suspected drone attacks.

Separately, a record 42 Ukrainian drones were aimed at annexed Black Sea peninsula Crimea, according to Russian sources.

Nine were shot down, and 33 suppressed by electronic warfare means, said the Russian defence ministry.

There was no independent evidence on the consequences of the mass drone attack.

It followed an audacious special forces raid which raised a Ukrainian flag on annexed Crimea after an attack on Russian positions.

'An entire division was destroyed on Cape Tarkhankut in temporarily occupied Crimea,' said Ukraine's Intelligence Chief Kyrylo Budanov.
Polling shows the Yes camp is falling behind

Sunrise host Natalie Barr has voiced her concerns about the Indigenous Voice to Parliament referendum, saying Australians want to recognise First Nations people but don't understand how the mechanism will work.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is expected to announce the official date of the referendum today while he visits Adelaide in the must-win state of South Australia, with speculation favouring October 14.

'I think a lot of people really don't understand it,' Barr said.

The referendum date announcement will spark six weeks of intense campaigning from the Yes and No camps.

Speaking with Home Affairs Minister Claire O'Neil and shadow finance minister Jane Hume on Wednesday, Barr said she hoped the government would use that period to better inform Australians of the details around the plan.

The referendum will ask Australians to constitutionally enshrine an Indigenous advisory body to Parliament known as the Voice, but the details will come in the form of subsequent legislation.

'As much as some people want to recognise indigenous Australians in the constitution, you can't deny that a lot of people just don't get this,' Barr said.

'A lot people are saying, well hang on, how many people are going to be involved, how is it going to be voted - all the details.'

'Will it create another layer of bureaucracy  all that stuff  do you reckon you can explain that in six weeks,' Barr asked Ms O'Neil.

'We also need to understand it.'

Barr asked Ms O'Neil if the mammoth task of getting Australians on board was too big for a month-and-a-half campaign with latest polling not looking favourable.

Anthony Albanese will announce the official date of the Indigenous Voice to Parliament referendum today in the must-win state of South Australia

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Ms O'Neil said previous governments had tried 'everything else' but there is still a worrying societal gap between Indigenous and Non-Indigenous Australians and the Voice was the way to fix that.

'What I would just say to Australians is... Firstly, this has come from First Nations people, this is not politicians who have dreamed this up,' she said.

'Why is there a nine year life expectancy gap between First Nations and non-First Nations Australians'

'Why is an indigenous mum threefold as likely to die in childbirth?'

'These are just some terrible gaps in the standard of living between First Nations, Australians and others.

'And we have tried everything else.

'I mean, we've spent money on this problem. We've created, you know, people within government to try to deal with it, it's not working.'

'First Nations people have said we want a voice to parliament and that is the pathway towards us fixing these issues.'

Sunrise host Nat Barr questioned whether the government could win over Australians on the details of the Voice within a six week campaign

To succeed the referendum must get a double majority, meaning the majority of Australians and also the majority of states must vote Yes.

Victoria has been stable in it's support for proposal but NSW appears to be leaning towards the No camp.

Queensland and WA have been firmly in the No camps in the polls.

In the crucial state of South Australia a new survey of 605 voters by think tank The Australia Institute indicates 43 per cent back an Indigenous voice to parliament while 39 per cent are opposed.

The undecided 18 per cent were evenly split in their leaning, putting 'yes' ahead at 52-48.

Previous polls had put 'no' ahead in SA.

Separate polling from another think tank, the Institute of Public Affairs, has Tasmania, another key swing state, leaning towards 'no'.

The survey of 1156 voters in the state found 53 per cent intended to vote 'no', with another 42 per cent in support.

Another five per cent said they were undecided.

'Yes' supporters will kick off campaigns across the country, including door knocks and street walks.

Anthony Albanese (pictured with his partner Jodie Haydon) is taking his case for a Yes vote in the upcoming referendum on an Indigenous Voice to Parliament to WA amid criticism within the local Labor Party that it will be defeated

Anthony Albanese (pictured in Sydney last week) will need to convince at least 1.7million undecided voters for the Voice referendum to win, leaked documents have revealed

Former Liberal prime minister Malcolm Turnbull will join Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek and 'yes' volunteers to hand out flyers in Sydney.

In Tasmania, Liberal MP Bridget Archer will hit the streets to encourage voters to back the proposal.

Greens leader Adam Bandt and NDIS Minister Bill Shorten will chat with commuters in Melbourne's inner north.

Other polls have the 'yes' vote lagging across the nation and on a downward trend but campaigners say the mood on the ground is more hopeful.

Speaking in Adelaide, Indigenous activist Noel Pearson said the state would be critical in the referendum.

'It's really a linchpin, it's been between those eastern states that are very firmly 'yes' and those that are still pondering what they will do at this referendum,' he said.

Supporters of the voice face an uphill battle with the vast majority of Australian referendums failing and the federal opposition campaigning heavily against the constitutional change.

The 'no' campaign has positioned the voice to be legally risky and divisive along racial lines.

Former prime minister John Howard warned a successful voice referendum would lead to calls for treaty.

'We don't have treaties with bits of ourselves and it only has to be stated to be realised as a complete absurdity,' he told Sky News.

'Treaties are made between sovereign nations, we have treaties with other countries.'
A man has died after he was struck by a car in an alleged late night hit-and-run.

Emergency services were called to Johnston Road at Elizabeth Downs, in Adelaide's north, at about 1am on Wednesday.

South Australia Police allege the driver fled the scene before first responders arrived.

The 32-year-old man was found fighting for his life on the street before he died at the scene.

A 29-year-old Craigmore woman surrendered herself to the Elizabeth Police Station later that morning where she was interviewed by Major Crash Officers.

A 32-year-old man was killed at the scene of a hit-and-run in Adelaide at about 1am on Wednesday

Emergency services were called to Johnston Road at Elizabeth Downs, in Adelaide's north, at about 1am on Wednesday

Police allege she was the driver and her Holden station wagon was towed from her home for forensic testing.

Investigators from the Major Crash unit examined the scene.

Anyone with information or dashcam footage of the incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers.

The man's death is the 77th on South Australian roads so far this year compared to 48 at the same time last year.
Three quarters of Church of England priests believe Britain can no longer be described a Christian country, a new poll has revealed.

The huge survey conducted by The Times, which used responses from 1,200 serving priests, also found that more than half think that same-sex weddings should be allowed.

Of those surveyed, 53.4 per cent backed a change in law to allow priests to marry same-sex couples, whereas 36.5 per cent were against the idea.

The results were branded 'absolutely huge' by Rev Andrew Foreshew-Cain, who runs the Campaign for Equal Marriage in the Church, and married his partner despite the rules.

'It is really clear evidence of the direction of change the church needs to pursue,' he told the paper. 'I hope this kind of evidence will enable the bishops to feel confidence that there is a wide majority for change.'

The landmark survey also revealed that many priests feel they are over-stretched and are concerned that the church could ultimately face 'extinction' if it does not address the decline in attendance.

Of those surveyed, 53.4 per cent backed a change in law to allow priests to marry same-sex couples, whereas 36.5 per cent were against the idea

Many priests feel they are over-stretched and are concerned that the church could ultimately face 'extinction' if it does not address the decline in attendance

The number of churchgoers attending Sunday services have dropped dramatically since 1986 when 1.2 million would go to worship, compared with 690,000 in 2019.

It highlighted how a third of working-age priests had 'seriously considered' quitting in the past five years, with 40 per cent feeling overworked.

Priests were asked a series of questions from topics to do with religion, Brexit, migration, slavery and climate change.

Only 24.2 per cent answered 'yes, Britain can be described as a Christian country today', while 64.2 per cent said Britain could be called Christian, but 'only historically'. Another 9.2 per cent said the country cannot be described as Christian.

The number of people that identify as Christian in England and Wales has been declining.

Figures from the 2021 census showed that for the first time less than half of the country - 46.2 per cent - identified as religious, with a growing proportion claiming they had 'no religion'.

A huge majority - more than 80 per cent - of priests back a woman becoming the Archbishop of Canterbury, while two thirds of priests want to end powers that allow parishes to reject female leaders.

Justin Welby is the 105th Archbishop of Canterbury - a position that has only ever been held by men.

Justin Welby is the 105th Archbishop of Canterbury - a position that has only ever been held by men

Sonita Alleyne, the master of Jesus College, Cambridge, whose efforts to remove a memorial to Tobias Rustat from the college chapel were blocked by a church court (pictured)

Meanwhile women have only been allowed to become Bishops since 2014.

The Bishop of Dover, the Right Rev Rose Hudson-Wilkin, praised the surveys results, claiming the church 'cannot continue to speak with a forked tongue' by backing women in priesthood but allowing parishes to reject them.

Amongst the huge list of questions, priests were also questioned about whether the statues of slave traders should be demolished.

Only 15 per cent of priests backed the removal from memorials and statues on church property, however, two thirds said information should be added to highlight their link to the slave trade.

Lord Boateng, Britains first black cabinet minister who now runs the churchs Racial Justice Commission, said the survey was promising, showing that priests wanted to 'confront the failings and sins of the past'.

But Sonita Alleyne, the master of Jesus College, Cambridge, whose efforts to remove a memorial to Tobias Rustat from the college chapel were blocked by a church court after protests, warned adding information about their slavery links 'may not be sufficient'.

Only 1.1 per cent of those surveyed - around 13 priests - called for such memorials to be destroyed.

Meanwhile 13.9 per cent said they should be 'removed from church property and moved to a museum or display space'.
Sources have said Rishi Sunak is open to talks with Xi Jinping at G20 summit

Mr Cleverly will travel to China for meetings with Wang Yi and Han Zheng

Foreign Secretary James Cleverly was accused of 'kowtowing' to China last night as he prepared for formal talks with communist leaders in Beijing.

Mr Cleverly will end a five-year freeze in relations today when he travels to the Chinese capital for meetings with foreign affairs minister Wang Yi and vice president Han Zheng.

Speaking ahead of the trip, Mr Cleverly pledged to raise the issue of China's dire human rights record and urged the communist superpower to act with 'responsibility on the global stage'.

He said it was vital to 'manage our relationship with China' and recognise that global challenges like climate change cannot be tackled without Beijing's support.

'China's size, history and global significance means they cannot be ignored, but that comes with a responsibility on the global stage.

Foreign Secretary James Cleverly was accused of 'kowtowing' to China last night (pictured on Sunday)

'That responsibility means China fulfilling its international commitments and obligations,' Mr Cleverly added.

READ MORE: James Cleverly faces growing Tory backlash over plans to visit China with warnings some ministers could RESIGN if Beijing trip goes ahead Advertisement

Government sources said Rishi Sunak was also open to holding face-to-face talks with Xi Jinping at next week's G20 summit in New Delhi if the Chinese president decides to attend.

But critics warned that cosying up to China's communist leadership would achieve nothing.

Sir Iain Duncan Smith accused ministers of pursuing a policy of 'appeasement' towards Beijing  and warned that the Government seemed more interested in boosting trade than defending human rights and democracy.

Sir Iain, one of a number of MPs sanctioned by China, urged Mr Cleverly to abandon the meeting, saying it was 'pointless'. 'This is just the latest stage of Project Kowtow,' he said.

'The problem with our position right now is it smells terribly of appeasement. It's like we want more business, therefore we don't want to upset the Chinese too much.'

Mr Cleverly hit back last night, saying: 'To consciously withdraw and not utilise our standing in the world, the authority and voice that we have, that would be seen as a sign of weakness, not a sign of strength.'

But Tory MP Alicia Kearns, chairman of the Commons foreign affairs committee, warned that Mr Cleverly was entering 'hostile territory'.

Mr Cleverly will end a five-year freeze in relations today when he travels to the Chinese capital for meetings with foreign affairs minister Wang Yi (pictured) and vice president Han Zheng

In a report today, her committee calls on ministers to publish a new China strategy to end the 'incoherence' in the UK's approach.

Ms Kearns said: 'The need for economic cooperation with China needs to be balanced with caution. If the West leaves a vacuum China will fill it.'

Mr Cleverly is the first British foreign secretary to visit Beijing since Jeremy Hunt in July 2018.

In the same year Theresa May became the last prime minister to meet president Xi.
An alleged Upper East Side pedophile was indicted in Manhattan Monday on sealed charges following his arrest for the abduction and abuse of a 5-year-old girl entrusted in his care.

During a brief Manhattan criminal court appearance, prosecutors said a grand jury had indicted the 75-year-old Franz Vila. Hes been held on $275,000 bail at Rikers Island since his arrest last week.

Vila kidnapped the girl when her mother unsuspectingly asked him to watch her at a Queens park, according to authorities. Hes accused of taking the child to his apartment, making her put on dresses and then sexually abusing her last Tuesday.

The exact charges will remain under seal until Vila is arraigned in Manhattan Supreme Court next month.

Vila ran into the mother of the child outside a Jackson Heights supermarket around 9:30 a.m. Tuesday, authorities previously said.

He was asked to watch the child play for just half an hour, according to the complaint.

When the mom returned for her child and found no one there, she called police, who issued a Level-Two mobilization to find the girl and Vila.

That afternoon, a straphanger saw them at a Queens subway station, grabbed the girls arm and shouted to nearby cops for help. Thats when they nabbed Vila.

The mother, whose name is being held to protect the victims identity, said last Tuesday wasnt her daughters first disturbing encounter with Vila.

She previously found the Manhattan man in the shower with her little girl, adding that he asked her to remove her clothes and told the mother to dress her without underwear.

The mom said she told him to stop and admitted to making a colossal mistake in allowing him access to her daughter.

I dont know why I did that, she told the Daily News last week. I question myself. I thought maybe he was normal.
Artemis was the twin sister of Apollo and goddess of the moon in Greek mythology.

NASA has chosen her to personify its path back to the moon, which will see astronauts return to the lunar surface by 2025 - including the first woman and the next man.

Artemis 1, formerly Exploration Mission-1, was the first in a series of increasingly complex missions that will enable human exploration to the moon and Mars.

The uncrewed flight, which successfully launched in November last year, travelled more than 1.4 million miles on a path around the moon and back to Earth. It splashed down in the Pacific Ocean in December 2022, 25-and-a-half days after launch.

Artemis 1, formerly Exploration Mission-1, was the first in a series of increasingly complex missions that will enable human exploration to the moon and Mars. This graphic explains the various stages of the mission

Orion stayed in space longer than any ship for astronauts has done without docking to a space station, while it also returned home faster and hotter than ever before.

It will now be followed by Artemis II, a manned mission which is scheduled for launch next year.

The crew will fly around the moon and back to prepare for Artemis III, which NASA is targeting as the mission to return humans to the lunar surface.

Eventually NASA seeks to establish a sustainable human presence on the moon by 2028 as a result of the Artemis programme.

The space agency hopes this colony will uncover new scientific discoveries, demonstrate new technological advancements and lay the foundation for private companies to build a lunar economy.

Who is Victor Glover? The man set to become NASA's first black astronaut to orbit the moon

Victor Glover (pictured) was selected as an astronaut in 2013 and became the first African American ISS expedition crewmember to live on the ISS seven years later

NASA is set to send the first-ever black astronaut to the moon.

Victor Glover, 46, was selected to take part in the space agency's Artemis II mission  the US' first lunar mission in a half-century.

The Pomona, California, native will be the first person of color to travel into deep space, hundreds of thousands of miles beyond the low-Earth orbiting International Space Station (ISS).

NASA officials say the diverse crew assignments signify the cultural shifts that have taken place since the original Apollo missions, which ended in 1972, at a time when white men dominated space exploration.

Glover was also the first black man to ever live on the International Space Station (ISS) in 2020 and is among 15 African Americans to be selected as an astronaut.

In his esteemed career since being selected as an astronaut in 2013, Mr Glover has logged over 3,000 flight hours in 40 different aircraft.

Artemis II - which will launch in November 2024 - will see the four-man crew orbit the moon in the Orion spacecraft but not land.

Their goal is to test new technology, including heat shields that protects Orion as it travels 24,500 mph in 5,000 degrees Fahrenheit on its way back.

If successful, NASA plans to launch an expedition to land on the moon titled Artemis III. Another success would spell out a trip to Mars for NASA.

I wanna thank God for this Amazing opportunity, Mr Glover said during a new conference Monday.

This is a big day. We have a lot to celebrate. Its so much more than the four names that have been announced. We need to celebrate this moment in human history.

'Artermis II is more than a mission to the Moon and back. Its more than a mission that has to happen before we send people to the surface of the moon. It is the next step on the journey that gets humanity to Mars.

This crew will never forget that.

Mr Glover was born in 1976 in Pomona, around 30 miles east of Los Angeles.

The city is far from the glitz and glamour of Hollywood, known for its high poverty rate and relatively high crime.

Mr Glover grew up in Ponoma, CA, 30 miles east of Los Angeles

He said his parents and teachers served as mentors as him growing up.

'Early on in life it had to be my parents; they encouraged me and challenged me and held me to high standards. Outside of home, I had teachers that did the same,' he told USA Today in 2017.

'They all challenged me, and they encouraged me.'

Mr Glover continued that his teachers and parents urged him to go the engineering school and eventually become a test pilot  leading to him becoming an astronaut.

He graduated from Southern California's Ontario High School in 1994, and went on to attend California Polytechnic State University, before completing his graduate education at Air University and the US Naval Academy.

'Im the first person in my family to graduate from college, and being at graduation with my mom and my dad and my stepdad and my little brothers and my grandparents,' he said to USA Today.

'That was unreal, that was cool and it was special for me.'

In 1999 he was commissioned as part of the US Navy. After completing flight training in Corpus Christy, Texas, he was 'given his wings' and awarded the title of pilot in 2001.

He then moved to San Diego to learn to fly the McDonnell Douglas F/A-18 Hornet, known as one of the Navy's more versatile aircraft.

After spending the next two years training in Florida and Virginia, he was deployed to Iraq in 2004 for six months.

Mr Glover was working in the office of the late Sen John McCain as a legislative fellow when he was selected by NASA to become an astronaut in 2013.

NASA only selects a handful of the thousands of people that apply to be a member of the nation's astronaut corps each year. Only 15 black astronauts have ever been selected out of 348.

A vast majority of the 41 current astronauts have a military background, like Mr Glover.

He completed his astronaut training in 2015. Three years later, he was selected to be a part of the first ever operational flight of SpaceX's Crew Dragon, a reusable aircraft designed by the firm Elon Musk found in 2002.

As part of that mission, he would live on the ISS from November 17, 2020 to May 2, 2021.

The nearly six-month-long stay on the station makes him the first black astronaut to inhabit it.

Jeanette Epps, 52, who was selected to be an astronaut in 2009 is set to become the second African American, and first black woman, to live on the ISS after the launch of Boeing Starliner-1 in 2024 or later.

In 2020, Mr Glover said it was an honor to be the first black person selected to the ISS.

'It is something to be celebrated once we accomplish it, and I am honored to be in this position and to be a part of this great and experienced crew,' he said during a news conference.

'I look forward to getting up there and doing my best to make sure, you know, we are worthy of all the work that's been put into setting us up for this mission.'

In an interview with The Christian Chronicle later that year, he said there were qualified black astronauts that should have earned the honor before him.

'I've had some amazing colleagues before me that really could have done it, and there are some amazing folks that will go behind me,' he said.

'I wish it would have already been done, but I try not to draw too much attention to it.'

Who is Christina Koch? The first female NASA astronaut set to orbit the moon

Christina Koch is set to become the first woman to go around the moon when NASA's Artemis II mission takes off next year.

Christina Koch, 44, from Grand Rapids, Michigan, is set to become the first woman to go around the moon

The Grand Rapids, Michigan native, 44, is already the record-holder for the longest amount of time a woman has spent in space, 328 days, and for taking part in the first all-female spacewalk in 2019.

Selected to become an astronaut in 2013, Ms Koch said she has not followed a 'checklist' in order to become an astronaut  but instead chased her passions whether this be rock climbing, sailing or even learning to surf in her 40s.

She said in 2020: 'I really don't remember a time when I didn't want to be an astronaut.

'For me, I learned that if I was going to be an astronaut, it was because my passions had turned me into someone that could contribute the most as someone contributing to human space flight.'

While she's exploring space, her husband Robert will be left taking care of housework and the couple's puppy, LBD. It is not believed that they have children.

'Am I excited? Absolutely!' she said at a news conference at the crew's announcement Monday.

The one thing I'm most excited about is that we will carry your excitement,your aspirations, your dreams, on this mission.

She also said: We are going to launch from Kennedy space center, we are going to here the words go for launch on top of the most powerful rocket NASAs ever made.

NASA has sent a total of 355 people to space so far, of which some 55 have been women  or 15 percent. It has also sent 24 people to orbit the moon and 12 to walk on the lunar surface who were all men.

Russian Valentina Tereshkova was the first woman to ever leave the earth's atmosphere  setting off in 1937. American women did not get sent to space until 1983.

Ms Koch, however, will make history on the Artemis II mission when she completes her long-awaited trip around the moon.

She revealed her love of space in a video when she was announced as a member of the Artemis I team in 2020.

The astronaut said: 'I am someone who has loved exploration on the frontier since I was little.

'I used to be inspired by the night sky and throughout my career, it's been this balance between engineering for space science missions and doing science in really remote places all over the world.

'I loved things that made me feel small, things that made me ponder the size of the universe, my place in it and everything that was out there to explore.'

She added: 'I didn't necessarily live my life following check boxes of how you could become an astronaut.

'But I followed those passions and one day I looked at what I had become and the skills I had gathered and I asked "could I sit across from a table and present myself as someone who could do this well?". And I thought, I'm going to give this a shot.'

She went to North Carolina State University in Raleigh to get a bachelor's and a master's in Electrical Engineering.

She then became an Electrical Engineer at NASA Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland, before becoming a research associate for the United States Antarctic Program  living an entire year in the Arctic.

Ms Koch was one of eight selected as part of NASA's 21st class of astronauts in 2013. After two years of training, she became a full-fledged astronaut.

Her first space flight came in 2019 when she was sent to the International Space Station (ISS) to work as a flight engineer.

She stayed up there for 328 days, taking the record for the longest spaceflight by a woman. The previous record holder, Peggy Whitson, was in space for 288 days.

While in space she also took the record for the first all-women space walk  when an astronaut gets out of a vehicle while in space  with Jessica Meir.

The pair spent seven hours and 17 minutes on the side of the ISS as they worked to replace a power controller. The walk also included a brief call with President Trump.

Upon her return to Earth in 2020, Ms Koch said she felt 'like a baby' who was two weeks old and working hard to hold up its head.

Back on Earth, she lives in Galveston, Texas, just outside of the Houston area.

Among her interests are backpacking, running, yoga, photography and travel.

Now she will be a part of a groundbreaking mission in NASA's goal towards putting a man on Mars.

The Artemis II mission marks NASA's first trip to the moon in half a century. It says it will be performed to help test kit in preparation for getting humans onto Mars.

The agency sent an empty Orion capsule around the moon last year before it returned to Earth in a long-awaited dress rehearsal.

If this latest mission goes well, then another flight to land people on the moon will be sent in 2025  as part of tests ahead of getting people onto Mars.
Google will even pay you if the price of purchased tickets has dropped

Google's tool allows travellers to see when is the best time of year to book flights

The toss-up between booking flights early and holding off in the hope of a cheaper deal is a dilemma faced by many travellers year-on-year.

But Google may now have a solution to this, with the launch of a new tool that gives thrifty travellers a chance to hunt for the lowest fares.

While the tech titan claims that booking early is usually the safest bet, its new search function allows users to discover what times of year are best to splash out on tickets.

This is backed by 'reliable trend data', with the tool offering useful insights on whether prices are overblown or at a discount.

'For example, these insights could tell you that the cheapest time to book similar trips is usually two months before departure, and you're currently in that sweet spot,' Google said.

Google's tool allows travellers to see assess what time of year they should book flights

HOW TO USE GOOGLE'S FLIGHT TOOLS Search for 'Google Flights' online Once clicked on, it should take you to a flight search bar Choose your destination, flight times and baggage requirements Click 'Search' Tap 'View price history' to see more information on average ticket prices and fluctuations over time Click 'Track prices' - located just below the search bar - to get email notifications Advertisement

'Or you might learn that prices have usually dropped closer to takeoff, so you decide to wait before booking.

'Either way, you can make that decision with a greater sense of confidence.'

To make the most of this, travellers can even opt-in to receive frequent updates on their chosen destination and dates.

This means that when prices fall, users will be notified through their email account - providing they are signed up with Google.

Sometimes, Google is so confident in its price predicting abilities that a rainbow 'price guarantee' badge will pop up on its deals.

In these cases, Google will monitor the price of your purchased flight everyday before takeoff.

If the price drops, the tech titan will refund the difference through Google Pay.

However, as of now, this is only part of a pilot program available for a select group of flights in the US.

'Outside of these tools, we've gathered other information to help you travel on a budget,' Google said.

'Last year, we shared based on historical pricing trends on Google Flights.

'We ran the numbers again with the latest data, and most of the tips from 2022 still hold true: Taking a layover or avoiding weekend departures are among the best ways to save on your next flight booking.'

If your purchased tickets have a price guarantee, Google will monitor your flights and pay you if the tickets drop even further in price

Users can also opt into email notifications about the price changes of specific tickets

The tool is backed by 'reliable trend data', with the tool offering useful insights on whether prices are overblown or at a discount

To make use of these flight tools, search for 'Google Flights' in an internet search bar.

The feature should be one of the first to appear and, when clicked on, it should take you to another search bar.

Here, you'll have the option to select any holiday destination while also advising what dates are more or less expensive for flights.

Tapping 'Search' before hitting 'View price history' will then provide a more in-depth account of the travel route you've chosen.

This includes graphs displaying price over time in addition to average prices and alternative options.

In the same window there will also be a 'Track prices' toggle displayed just below the search bar.

When switched on, alerts will be sent to your email about any ticket price changes.
With their roller-skating waiters and rows of polished convertibles, drive-in movie theatres were once all the rage in 1950s and 60s America.

They gradually died out around 50 years ago as the rise of the VHS ushered in a preference to watch films from home, but still evoke a sense of nostalgia at the idea of witnessing Hollywood's golden age from the comfort of a car.

Now, thanks to Elon Musk, they may well see a mini resurgence.

That's because the billionaire entrepreneur has received approval to open an all-night Tesla diner that would include a drive-in cinema and charging station.

It will feature two 45-foot LED movie screens running famous film clips 24/7.

Futuristic nostalgia: Elon Musk has received approval to open an all-night Tesla diner that would include a drive-in cinema and charging station. The company has not released official artist's impressions yet but that hasn't stopped fans creating their own, including 3D renders put together by architect Ed Howard (pictured)

Rough idea: Tesla also gave a brief glimpse of the design during its 2023 Investor Day presentation (pictured), which would suggest Mr Howard's concept is not a million miles off

WHAT FEATURES WILL THERE BE AT TESLA'S ALL-NIGHT DINER? Two 45-foot LED movie screens running famous film clips 24/7

28 supercharging points

Indoor and outdoor seating

'Carhop area' downstairs for staff to bring meals out to vehicles in the car park Advertisement

Musk's vision is for people to be able to catch a 30-minute glimpse of these scenes while they grab a bite to eat and wait for their car to recharge at one of 28 supercharging points.

His idea for the design was to create a retro-futuristic aesthetic billed as being 'Grease meets The Jetsons with Supercharging'.

Starring John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John, the 1978 film Grease is adored the world over for capturing a teen love story against the backdrop of 50s rock 'n' roll, where a drive-in movie theatre is the go-to place to hang out and go on dates.

The Jetsons, meanwhile, was an animated sitcom about a family living in a comical version of the future where flying cars, holograms and robotic contraptions are commonplace.

Tesla has revealed technical drawings of its proposed drive-in  which will be built on Santa Monica Boulevard in Hollywood  but no official artist impressions as yet.

That hasn't stopped fans from creating their own, however, including 3D renders put together by architect Ed Howard.

Tesla has revealed technical drawings of its proposed drive-in  which will be built on Santa Monica Boulevard in Hollywood

The facility will feature two 45-foot LED movie screens, indoor and outdoor seating, and 28 superchargers so visitors can recharge their vehicles while they relax

They show a spaceship-like diner with a large rooftop terrace which also captures the essence of 1950s Americana.

Construction of the new Tesla facility is expected to begin soon now the proposals have been given the green light by the city of Los Angeles, as first reported by the website Teslarati.

The venue will have indoor and outdoor seating, while visitors will be able to pay with the cryptocurrency Dogecoin once the venue is built.

Musk previously said that Tesla-branded diners could sprout up around its charging stations, having first tweeted about the idea back in 2018, and last year filed for three trademarks related to possibly joining the restaurant business.

Tesla originally planned to build the diner in the coastal city of Santa Monica but moved the plans to Hollywood, on the historic Route 66.

They will involve demolishing a Shakey's Pizza Parlor on the current site and building the diner in its place.

What the Tesla venue could look like: Mr Howard's renderings show a spaceship-like diner with a large rooftop terrace which also captures the essence of 1950s Americana

Coming soon: Construction is expected to begin soon now the proposals have been given the green light by the city of Los Angeles

In February, Musk tweeted that a 'futuristic diner / drive-in theater' was being 'planned for Hollywood area!'

The ground floor of the venue will include a kitchen, stool seating and booths, and an outdoor bar around the edge of the building, while the top deck will have outdoor rooftop seating and an area for theatre-style seats.

There will also be a 'carhop area' downstairs for staff to bring meals out to vehicles in the car park. In total there will be over 200 seats.

It is hard to tell from the technical drawings what the decor will look like, but Tesla may be going for more of a futuristic style, despite originally billing the idea as being for an 'old-school' diner.

It could also be a mixture of the two.

In February, Musk tweeted that a 'futuristic diner / drive-in theater' was being 'planned for Hollywood area!'

Tesla also gave a brief glimpse of the design during its 2023 Investor Day presentation, which would suggest Mr Howard's concept is not a million miles off.

Now approval for the project has been given, more details are expected to follow very soon.
READ MORE: Harvard professor Avi Loeb says aliens may be creating universes

Avi Loeb spent two weeks searching for them in hopes of proving alien life

The fragments came from an object that crashed into the Pacific Ocean in 2014

Scientists claim they have recovered material that originated outside our solar system for the first time in history.

Alien-hunting Harvard physicist Professor Avi Loeb said early analysis of metal fragments his team recovered from the Pacific Ocean in June suggests they came from interstellar space.

The remnants came from a meteor-like object that crashed off the coast of Papua New Guinea in 2014, which Professor Loeb is not ruling out could have been fragments of an alien craft.

The team found about 700 tiny metallic spheres during the expedition, and the 57 analyzed contain compositions that do not match any natural or man-made alloys.

The findings do not yet answer whether the spheres are artificial or natural in origin - which Professor Loeb said is the next question his research aims to answer.

'This is a historic discovery because it represents the first time that humans put their hand on materials from a large object that arrived to Earth from outside the solar system, Professor Loeb said Tuesday.

The remnants came from a meter-size object that crashed off the coast of Papua, New Guinea in 2014, which Professor Loeb claims was an alien craft

A Harvard duo recovered 50 unusual iron spheres after tracking down the unidentified object, known as IM1, off the coast of Papua New Guinea last week as part of a $ 1.5 million underwater search mission

Harvard physicist Avi Loeb announced Tuesday that the hundreds of tiny metal fragments recovered from the Pacific Ocean originated outside our solar system

Throughout their two-week Pacific voyage, the Galileo team scoured the seabed for signs of IM1 debris, dragging a deep-sea magnetic sled along the fireball's last known trajectory. Pictured is Loeb (right)

The composition analysis of the spherules was performed by Stein Jacobsen and his cosmochemistry laboratory team at Harvard University.

Professor Loeb told DailyMail.com: 'I was thrilled when Stein Jacobsen reported to me about it based on the results in his laboratory.

'Stein is a highly conservative and professional geochemist with a worldwide reputation.

'He had no bias or agenda whatsoever and expected to find familiar spherules with solar system composition.

'But the data showed something new, never reported in the scientific literature. Science is guided by evidence.'

Professor Loeb also told DailyMail.com that future research would answer whether the fragments are simply part of a space rock or the debris of alien technology that has been floating through the cosmos for millennia.

'For now, we wanted to check whether the materials are from outside the solar system,' he said.

'The success of the expedition illustrates the value of taking risks in science despite all odds as an opportunity for discovering new knowledge.'

Loeb and his team published their study on the findings, which has yet to be peer-reviewed.

It states the fragments - known as spherules - appeared to be nested, suggesting that liquid drops engulfed smaller ones that solidified earlier.

And textures on surfaces of the round objects point to a rapid cooling.

The composition analysis of the spherules was performed by Stein Jacobsen (right) and his cosmochemistry laboratory team at Harvard University. Center is Avi Loeb and left is Sophie Bergstrom

The data from the analysis showed that the fragments are rich in Beryllium, lanthanum and uranium, along with low content of elements with high affinity to iron, like Rhenium. Pictured is the composition of a fragment found at the site

Professor Loeb used advanced technology to probe the inside of the tiny spheres, allowing him to see detailed patterns of the elements

Analysis of the fragments showed they are rich in Beryllium, lanthanum and uranium, along with low content of elements that bind to iron, like Rhenium - one of the rarest elements found on Earth.

While the elements are found on Earth, Professor Loeb explained the patterns do not match the alloys found on our planet, moon, Mars or other natural meteorites in the solar system.

''BeLaU' abundance pattern found in IM1's spherules could have possibly originated from a highly differentiated planetary magma ocean,' reads the study.

The document continues to explain that the element patterns differ from bodies in our solar system, including Earths upper continental crust.

Professor Loeb also theorizes that because the combination of BeLaU has an 'overabundance of heavy elements,' the fragments could have been ejected from supernovae or neutron star mergers.

However, the pattern is associated with the 's-process' that suggests the debris originated from an independent origin, such as Asymptotic Giant Branch (AGB) stars.

AGB stars are the final evolution stage of low- and intermediate-mass stars driven by nuclear burning.

Professor Loeb's future research plans to unravel the puzzle.

For years, He has argued that Earth may have been visited by interstellar technology.

In 2017, an interstellar object named Oumuamua passed through the Solar System, and while most scientists believe it was a natural phenomenon, Professor Loeb famously argued it may have been of alien origin.

After the discovery of Oumuamua in 2017, Professor Loeb theorized - despite much criticism - that more interstellar objects had likely whizzed past Earth.

He was vindicated in 2019 when a student discovered that a high-speed fireball in 2014, the IM1 meteor, also had interstellar origins, predating Oumuamua.

Roughly two dozen people, including scientists with Harvard's Galileo Project Expedition, the ship's crew and documentary filmmakers chronicling the endeavor, set sail from the island town of Lorengau on June 14 onboard the Silver Star

The 50 iron spheres recovered from the Pacific (above) were analyzed at Berkeley in a lab. They were shown to be 'anomalous'

The Harvard scientists spent years working closely with the US military to pinpoint the impact zone, combing through data to determine if and when the object fell from space.

Air friction burst IM1 into flames in mid-air as it careened towards Earth, leaving a trail of molten iron rain droplets in its wake on January 8 of that year.

The discovery that these interstellar metal fragments could be dredged from the Pacific with powerful magnets led to Professor Loeb and his Galileo team's latest mission.

This past June, Professor Loeb and his team traveled to a site where the meteor IM1 was believed to have crashed nearly a decade ago.

Also known as CNEOS1 2014-01-08, the object had an estimated diameter of 1.5 feet, a mass of 1,014 pounds and a pre-impact velocity of 37.3 miles per second.

IM1 withstood four times the pressure that would typically destroy an ordinary iron-metal meteor  as it hurtled through Earth's atmosphere at 100,215 miles per hour.

Iron is already the principal ingredient in the toughest known kinds of natural meteors, so the Harvard duo has theorized that there must be something highly unusual about how the object came to be made.

And now a battery of tests on the recovered IM1 fragments has proven that their chemical make-up is almost entirely iron: strong evidence in favor of the Harvard team's most controversial theories about the object.

Professor Loeb explained that the patterns found in BeLaU do not match the alloys found on Earth, our moon, Mars or other natural meteorites in the solar system.'

The heatmap shows the predicted IM1 path (orange box) and the DoD error region (red box)

The Harvard team took care to ensure that the 700 or so spherical iron fragments dredged up from over one mile below the surface of the Pacific were, in fact, actual remnants from IM1.

First, the team narrowed down the final trajectory of IM1 as it burst into flames on its way toward the ocean, tracking its airbursts with US Department of Defense satellite data and local seismometers set up to monitor earthquakes and volcanic activity.

With high confidence that the final path for IM1 covered 6.2 square miles (16 sq-km) of ocean near Manus Island, the team was then able to scrape the deep ocean floor with a large magnetic 'sled'  both along IM1's path and several 'control' regions.

The control regions ensured more iron spheres had not found their way onto the ocean floor via some event unrelated to IM1's fall to Earth.

Roughly two dozen people, including scientists with Harvard's Galileo Project Expedition, the ship's crew and documentary filmmakers chronicling the endeavor, set sail from the island town of Lorengau on June 14 onboard the Silver Star.

Throughout their two-week Pacific voyage, the Galileo team scoured the seabed for signs of IM1 debris, dragging a deep-sea magnetic sled along the fireball's last known trajectory and completing 26 runs of the sea floor.

In 2021, the physicist released a book titled 'Extraterrestrial: The First Sign of Intelligent Life Beyond Earth,' which argued that Oumuamu may not have been a comet or asteroid but 'space junk' of an alien civilization.

Oumuamua was discovered by a telescope in Hawaii, millions of miles away, and initially deemed Earth's first interstellar visitor until 2022, when IM1 was identified.

The remnants came from a meter-size object that crashed off the coast of Papua, New Guinea in 2014, which Professor Loeb claims was an alien craft

About 700 metallic spherical objects were pulled from the sea, which Professor Loeb determined contained alloys that could only be found in interstellar space

The team was then able to scrape the deep ocean floor with a large magnetic 'sled' (pictured)

Professor Loeb made a name for himself after claiming Oumuamua was an alien craft. It was discovered in October 2017 by a telescope in Hawaii, millions of miles away, and initially deemed Earth's first interstellar visitor until 2022

His fellow researchers, however, have long criticized Professor Loeb for his endeavors.

Steve Desch, an astrophysicist at Arizona State University, told The New York Times: 'People are sick of hearing about Avi Loeb's wild claims.

'It's polluting good science  conflating the good science we do with this ridiculous sensationalism and sucking all the oxygen out of the room.'

Professor Loeb addressed these comments in his Medium post and wished 'these astronomers happiness and prosperity.'

'Now that we discovered spherules with an extra-solar composition near IM1's path, they better retract their published claim that the US Space Command overestimated IM1's speed by a large factor and that IM1 was a stony meteorite from the solar system,' he wrote.

'We now know that IM1 was interstellar. Instead of rejecting the data, they would be better off revising their model.'
Known as the gateway to Wales, Chepstow is a border town steeped in history.

It boasts a 12th-century Norman castle overlooking the River Wye but was seen as a strategic stronghold long before those battle lines were drawn.

That's because archaeologists have previously uncovered evidence of prehistoric, Roman and Anglo-Saxon fortifications  and now something else.

It turns out the town was once home to an ancient bridge that linked England and Wales before the two countries came to be.

This wooden structure  believed to have been built by the Romans 2,000 years ago  was found preserved in mud following a race against time to uncover it during an 'extreme low tide event'.

An ancient bridge  believed to have been built by the Romans 2,000 years ago  was found preserved in mud in the River Wye near Chepstow

Archaeologists had just a two-hour window to dig it out and had to be assisted by specialist rescue teams because of the perilous nature of their task

WHERE DOES THE BRIDGE LINK FROM AND TO? The ancient crossing links a route between Wales and England from around half a mile upstream of Chepstow to the village of Tutshill in Gloucestershire. The bridge was previously discovered and partially excavated in 1911 by Dr Orville Owen. It also appeared on an old Ordnance Survey map at around the same time but has been buried in mud ever since. Archaeologists think it is 2,000 years old and dates back to the Roman times. Advertisement

Samples were taken from the timbers, which will now undergo carbon dating to determine the bridge's exact age.

Archaeologists had just a two-hour window to dig it out and had to be assisted by specialist rescue teams because of the perilous nature of their task.

The ancient crossing links a route between Wales and England from around half a mile upstream of Chepstow to the village of Tutshill in Gloucestershire.

Simon Maddison, of the Chepstow Archaeological Society (CAS), said: 'The team were able to locate upright timbers in a tidal pool on the location of the Roman crossing.

'Until the results come back we won't know for sure the period of the structure.

'We are thrilled with what we were able to achieve and await dating results with keen anticipation.'

Experts from CAS were given assistance by members of the Severn Area Rescue Association (SARA), who helped some of the team down off the bank using mud stretchers taken to the site by boat.

Mr Maddison said: 'The mud was very dense and very sticky, and we frequently got stuck in it. Without SARA it would have been impossibly dangerous.'

Samples were taken from the timbers, which will now undergo carbon dating to determine the bridge's exact age

The ancient crossing links a route between Wales and England from around half a mile upstream of Chepstow to the village of Tutshill in Gloucestershire

Experts from CAS were given assistance by members of the Severn Area Rescue Association (SARA), who helped some of the team down off the bank using mud stretchers taken to the site by boat

The bridge was previously discovered and partially excavated in 1911 by Dr Orville Owen. It also appeared on an old Ordnance Survey map at around the same time but has been buried in mud ever since

SARA Beachley posted photos of the muddy dig, saying: 'Something different last Friday! A small SARA team provided safety cover and other muddy assistance to a group from the Chepstow Archaeological Society, investigating the site of the Roman bridge across the Wye just above Chepstow Castle.

'With amazing results, as these photos show!

'This was our second such outing, and followed a visit in May which was something of a detailed reconnaissance.'

They added: 'Both visits were arranged for the bottom of spring tides, to give the maximum exposure of the area.

'And this meant that both outings provided a lot of good training value for us, with boat handling in shallow and pretty fast moving water as well as operating in the mud, as well as helping with the archaeology.'

Simon Maddison, of the Chepstow Archaeological Society (CAS), said: 'The team were able to locate upright timbers in a tidal pool on the location of the Roman crossing'

He added that 'until the results come back we won't know for sure the period of the structure'

'We are thrilled with what we were able to achieve and await dating results with keen anticipation,' Mr Maddison said

Known as the gateway to Wales, Chepstow is a border town steeped in history. It boasts a 12th-century Norman castle overlooking the River Wye but was seen as a strategic stronghold long before those battle lines were drawn

The bridge was previously discovered and partially excavated in 1911 by Dr Orville Owen.

It also appeared on an old Ordnance Survey map at around the same time but has been buried in mud ever since.

'It was recorded but we did not know exactly where it was,' Mr Maddison said.

'Detective work on the drawings in Chepstow Museum enabled us to pinpoint its likely location and this proved to be correct.'

Another bridge, called The Old Wye Bridge, was later built close to the 950-year-old Chepstow Castle.

This was constructed in 1816 using cast iron and stone in 1816 and has been designated as a Grade I listed building.
Memories of childhood holidays dont tend to manifest into political battles.

But not many people had the tenacity of John Buchan, whose love of Peebles, where he spent his childhood holidays with his grandparents, was so visceral that he ended up standing as a prospective Tory MP here.

That he lost to the Liberals didnt seem to dim his ardour for this Scottish Borders town, the surroundings of which are the setting for the most famous of his Richard Hannay novels: The Thirty-Nine Steps.

Buchans fast-paced thriller, first published in 1915, has his protagonist approaching a white ribbon of road which wound up the narrow vale of a lowland stream. As I followed it, fields gave place to bent, the glen became a plateau, and presently I had reached a kind of pass where a solitary house smoked in the twilight.

The John Buchan Story Museum demonstrates just what an immense hit the novel, and subsequent Hitchcock movie adaptation, was. Here I browsed over first editions, film posters, some of Buchans rather wobbly watercolours and even letters between him and Rudyard Kipling discussing the rise of Hitler.

Dramatic location: Rob Crossan pays a visit to Peebles (above), the Scottish Borders town the surroundings of which served as the setting for the 1915 thriller The Thirty-Nine Steps, written by John Buchan

Outside the museum door, Peebles high street couldnt be called bohemian, but theres jollity to the bunting that straddles the rooftops while, underneath, locally caught pleasures are on display at Ross Dougal fish merchant, including Eyemouth haddock and kippers.

Forsyths bakers has a window display featuring lasagne pies, Scotch pies and bridies  unseen outside of Scotland but essentially a pasty filled with steak, beef suet and onions.

Walking along the banks of the River Tweed, which snakes through the centre of Peebles, I was encouraged by one local to make my way to Rosslyn Chapel. His tip was wise, as this is one of the most mysterious and batty places of worship in Europe.

Rob goes for a walk along the banks of the River Tweed, which snakes through the centre of Peebles

Rosslyn Chapel (pictured) featured in the film adaptation of The Da Vinci Code. 'This is one of the most mysterious and batty places of worship in Europe,' writes Rob

Rosslyn Chapel's 'charming strangeness' was lauded by Lord Byron, Rob notes, explaining how the poet described it as a 'chaos of ruins'

You can discover letters written by John Buchan in the Peebles museum dedicated to his life

Featured in the big screen version of The Da Vinci Code, the Gothic interior comes complete with serpents wrapped around pillars, numerous gargoyles and a stained glass window with a kangaroo on it. Its charming strangeness was also lauded by Lord Byron: Oh, Roslin! Time, war, flood and fire have made your glories star by star expire. Chaos of ruins.

Baffled, beguiled and slightly breathless, I sit in the chapels homely cafe and eavesdrop on one Rosslyn enthusiast talking to his partner: I heard the master mason murdered his apprentice with an axe while they were working on the construction. Turns out he was jealous that his apprentice was better than him.

Murder, serpents and dangling angels  it seems Peebles has been the inspiration for spine-tingling thrills that stem even further back than Buchans fictional hero.

WHERE TO STAY

Imposing: Rob checks into the Cringletie hotel, where guests enjoy complimentary whisky and shortbread

John Buchan was a regular visitor to Cringletie when it was a private family home

Mostly built in the 19th Century after its previous incarnation collapsed, Albert II of Monaco and his entourage popped by Cringleties frescoed restaurant for lunch while I was there.

The Prince really should have stayed for the night in one of the castles rooms, which go light on tartan in favour of earthy, pale colours alongside complimentary whisky and shortbread.

He also missed out on chef Iain Gourlays nine-course evening tasting menu, which included a velvety venison carpaccio and a woodland mushroom parfait generous with sherry and fennel.

John Buchan was a regular visitor when this was a private family home. The expanses of grass and brooding woodland beyond look almost custom-made for an adventure scene in which Hannay sprints away from his enemies. Easy to accomplish, as long as he goes easy on those Peebles bridies
The annual photography contest was established to nurture the spirit of monochrome photography

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These photographers use their cameras to strip the world of colour - and the results are mesmerising.

Their work has been celebrated in the 2023 Black and White Photo Awards, an annual contest established to nurture the spirit of monochrome photography.

This year, thousands of images were submitted by photographers from 92 countries worldwide, focusing on themes such as landscape and flora and fauna.

Photographs that have received commendations include a magical picture of a full moon over a Canadian mountainscape, a heartwarming shot of a baby hippo bonding with its mother and a powerful image of a lightning storm over Italy.

The judges took a particular shine, however, to one image in particular, declaring it the Absolute Winner. Taken by French photographer Patrice Quillard, it's a hypnotising portrait of a gelada monkey in Ethiopia, with the creature seen staring down the camera lens.

The results have exceeded all our expectations, the judges said of the winners and finalists. Scroll down and you'll discover why they were so moved. You'll find the overall winner at the very bottom

Photographer Carlos Guevara titled this striking picture of Antarctica's icy landscape 'Portal to the Inner World'. It's a finalist in the contest

This transfixing shot shows a full moon seemingly balanced on the summit of a mountain in the Canadian Rockies. The work of Lee Nordbye, it's a finalist in the contest

This stunning picture of a sperm whale is titled 'Giant of the Deep'. A finalist in the awards, it was captured by Francisco Javier Garcia Lopez

Taking the top prize in the 'Landscape' category is this powerful shot of a lightning storm over the town of Porto San Giorgio in Italy's Le Marche region. It's the work of photographer Edoardo Frenquelli

This atmospheric shot of fog spilling over the hills of Italy's Le Marche region - captured by Edoardo Frenquelli - is a finalist in the contest

This epic image was taken from Hopi Point viewpoint, which overlooks the Grand Canyon in Arizona. The work of photographer Steven Scarborough, it's a finalist in the contest

LEFT: This moody shot, a finalist in the awards, shows Hintersee, a lake in the Bavarian Alps in Germany. It's the work of photographer Andrea Rosin. RIGHT: This striking shot was captured in Valletta, the capital of Malta, by Manuel Guerra Tejado. It gets a 'bronze mention' award in the 'Street' category

This heartwarming picture by Lurdes Santander shows a baby hippo and its 'protective' mother, as she teaches him how to manoeuvre through water. Santander explains how 'the little one' had yet to master controlling his breathing in the water. The image is a finalist in the contest

This mesmerising image shows a flock of grandala birds in the morning light near the town of Lachen in the Indian state of Sikkim. Captured by Soumya Ranjan Bhattacharyya, it's a finalist in the contest

The volcanic craters of Iceland's Fjallabak Nature Reserve are the subject of this enchanting shot by Julie Stamenic, which is a finalist in the awards

LEFT: Receiving the 'bronze mention' award in the 'Landscape' category is this eerie portrait of a lone tree, captured by Ken Evans near the town of Manchester in the U.S state of Maryland. He reveals: 'I made this image at dawn on a very foggy day just as the sun crested the hill.' RIGHT: This haunting image shows Leru Cut, a 100m- (328ft) long underwater chasm in the Solomon Islands. Photographer Pavlos Evangelidis says: 'It really is a stunning site, especially when the sun is out and the sun rays break through the cracks like in the picture.' Impressing the judges, it gets a 'silver mention' award in the 'Landscape' category

In this fascinating shot, Muslim devotees crowd onto a train after attending the annual Biswa Ijtema gathering in the township of Tongi in Bangladesh. Captured by Joy Saha, it's a finalist in the contest

A finalist in the awards, this frenetic picture by Azim Khan Ronnie shows hundreds of people trying to try to board trains at Tongi in Bangladesh

This eye-catching picture of a glacier, a finalist in the contest, is the work of photographer Matteo Strassera. He titles it 'World of Ice'

Ranking second in the 'Flora and Fauna' category is this beautiful portrait of a newborn humpback whale calf and its mother, taken by Ricardo Nascimento. The photographer notes how the calf, merely one week old, is a shade of 'pristine white'
Britain's National Air Traffic Service (Nats) faced a serious 'technical issue' for several hours on Monday, causing mass disruption to flights in UK airspace.

Thousands of travellers saw their flights grounded or cancelled on one of the busiest days of the year for air travel to and from the UK - and the shockwaves from the IT failure are still being felt. According to aviation analytics firm Cirium, five per cent of all departures and arrivals for Tuesday have been cancelled - or around 280 flights.

Have you been caught up in the chaos? Here we reveal everything you need to know, from whether youre owed compensation to the help airlines must give you.

CHECK WHETHER YOUR FLIGHT HAS BEEN CANCELLED

First things first - check the status of your flight.

Britain's National Air Traffic Service (Nats) faced a 'technical issue' for several hours on Monday, causing mass disruption to flights in the UK airspace. Above are disrupted passengers at Belfast International Airport on Monday

Nicky Kelvin, Editor at Large at The Points Guy, says: 'There will be significant disruption over the next few days following yesterdays air traffic control network-wide failure. My advice to travellers is to check your flight  by checking airport arrival and departure boards online and your airlines website to ensure that your flight is still proceeding as normal.'

He continues: 'Keep an eye on your emails too. Travellers are often given updates on cancellations here before anywhere else.'

Sharing an 'expert travel hack', Nicky recommends looking at Flight Radar 24, 'which allows you to track the exact aircraft that will be flying your route'.

He explains: 'Youre then able to see where this plane is and whether it has made it out of its previous destination. Knowing this information will help you to determine whether you will be encountering any delays ahead of your trip.

AM I ENTITLED TO COMPENSATION?

As the flight disruption was caused by an air traffic control issue, a scenario classed as an exceptional circumstance, airlines are not required to give passengers compensation.

What is an extraordinary circumstance? 'This is when something out of the ordinary and out of the airlines control causes the delay or cancellation,' Which? explains. 'You are not entitled to compensation for a delay or cancellation caused by an extraordinary circumstance.'

People wait near check-in desks at Gatwick Airport on Monday. Airlines are not required to give passengers any compensation for cancelled or delayed flights, as the disruption is due to exceptional circumstances

MY FLIGHT WAS CANCELLED  WILL I GET PAID IF I MISS WORK? Angela Carter, Legal Director for England and Wales at WorkNest, explains: If an employee is stuck in a different location due to flight delays or cancellations and they are unable to work they wont be entitled to be paid unless for some reason their employment contracts contain provision to be paid if they are unable to attend work due to circumstances outside their control, but this is very rare. If the employer and employee agree, and assuming the employee has not exhausted their holiday entitlement for the year, this could be taken as holiday in order to be paid. If the employee didnt have any holiday to take or didnt want to use holiday to cover the absence, then it would be treated as unpaid leave.' She continues: If an employee is able to  and has the equipment to  work productively remotely then this is something which could be agreed with the employer and they would then be paid as normal. However, it would be for the employer to take a view as to whether the employee is properly equipped and able to work remotely from abroad. Advertisement

However, if youre held up for two hours or more, you're entitled to assistance if youre flying from the UK or EU or with a UK or EU airline, Which? explains.

Which? Consumer Law expert Lisa Webb says: 'Although air traffic control issues are classified as "extraordinary circumstances" and passengers will not be entitled to compensation, airlines should be doing all that they can to keep their passengers up to date on the situation, supporting them on the ground with food and accommodation and doing their best to get them to their destination as soon as possible.'

WHEN YOU'RE ENTITLED TO ASSISTANCE FOR DELAYED FLIGHTS

Airline passengers delayed by two hours or more could be entitled to assistance such as two free phone calls or emails, free meals and refreshments, free hotel accommodation and hotel transfers, Which? reveals.

When the right to assistance kicks in depends on how far you fly.

Short-haul: Passengers flying up to 932 miles (1,500km) with a delay time of at least two hours are entitled to assistance.

Medium-haul: Passengers flying between 932 miles (1,500km) and 2,175 miles (3,500km) with a delay time of at least three hours are entitled to assistance.

Long-haul: Passengers flying more than 2,175 miles (3,500km) with a delay time of at least four hours are entitled to assistance.

Delayed passengers who meet the above criteria can contact their airline or approach staff at the airport for further information.

Passengers whose flight has been delayed by more than five hours are 'entitled to choose between being rerouted on a different flight or getting a refund', Which? says.

WHAT YOU'RE ENTITLED TO IF YOUR FLIGHT HAS BEEN CANCELLED

Nicky Kelvin says: If your flight has been cancelled, the airline should find you a new flight if you elect for that option. You can also request that the airline give you a flight on a rival provider if theres a flight available thats earlier than your original airline can offer. You dont have to travel with the same airline.'

He continues: 'The issue with this situation is that all airlines have been affected by these issues so trying to fly with different airlines may also not be possible.'

If flying is not an option, airlines will also cover train fares - such as TGV and Eurostar tickets - purchased as an alternative route to your final destination.

The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) says: 'If your flight is cancelled, many airlines are expected to provide vouchers for consumers to buy food and drink. If they require accommodation, they may book a hotel and arrange transportation for you.

'Consumers can organise reasonable care and assistance themselves, then claim the cost back later. If you end up paying for things yourself, keep every receipt and do not spend more than is reasonable. Airlines are unlikely to refund you for things like luxury hotels or alcohol. Some will provide guidance on reasonable costs.'

Travellers in Gatwick Airport on Monday. Passengers whose flight has been delayed by more than five hours are 'entitled to choose between being rerouted on a different flight or getting a refund', Which? says

'OUR FLIGHT WAS CANCELLED TODAY - AND THERE'S NOT ANOTHER ONE UNTIL SUNDAY' A traveller revealed to MailOnline Travel that her easyJet flight from Marseille to London Gatwick was cancelled at short notice today - and that there isn't another easyJet flight from the city back to London until Sunday. She said she could take a flight from Nice on Friday, but has opted instead to get back to the UK using high-speed TGV and Eurostar services on Thursday. She said: 'All the TGVs today and tomorrow [Wednesday] to Paris from Marseille are fully booked so I've booked one for Thursday. I'm supposed to be at work tomorrow, so taking a flight on Friday or Sunday wasn't an option.' When we put her situation to easyJet, the airline said that she is entitled to have her train fare reimbursed. Advertisement

Which? explains that you should be able to claim for your train fare home and for your return train fare to the airport, or to an alternative airport, when flights resume.

It says that if trains have stopped running and 'you need to get a 120 taxi home, your airline should still reimburse you'. Which? notes: 'Often, the airline will prefer to organise taxis for you directly, so do try to ask a customer representative for the airline first where possible.'

The watchdog adds: 'You should also be able to claim for petrol money if you drove, or a friend or family member drove you, home and back again. If this led to additional parking charges you should also be able to claim for these.'

The CAA says that it 'would expect the airline concerned to respond to a claim for reimbursement in a reasonable time and at the very least provide you with an indication of how long you should expect to wait for a response'. It notes that if you are 'unhappy with the length of time it is taking or disagree with the airlines decision regarding your claim' then you should follow the CAA's guidance on making a complaint.

WHAT TO DO IF YOU'RE WORRIED YOUR FLIGHT IS GOING TO BE CANCELLED

As a knock-on effect of Monday's disruption, more flights are being cancelled today (Tuesday, August 29).

Ryanair said: 'Today... passengers can expect some flight disruptions as we work to get our aircraft and crews back on schedule. We expect some flight cancellations and considerable flight delays today caused by this latest, still unexplained, Nats failure.'

And British Airways said: 'Like other airlines operating in the UK, we are continuing to experience the knock-on effects of yesterdays Nats Air Traffic Control issue, which includes unavoidable delays and cancellations. Customers travelling today on short-haul services can move their flight to a later date free of charge if they wish, subject to availability.'

While Tui said it had been given 'no choice' but to cancel 'a small number of holidays due to the repercussions of the Nats system issues'.

For those that are able to postpone their travel, I would recommend doing so Nicky Kelvin, Editor at Large at The Points Guy

It continued: 'Those customers impacted will be contacted by us directly to discuss their options, which include getting a full refund for their holiday. Our priority remains communicating directly with our customers and making sure they are looked after during this unexpected disruption. Customers travelling on Tuesday, 29 August, should travel to the airport as usual, unless contacted directly by Tui and told otherwise.'

Easyjet said: 'While the majority of our flying programme is operating as planned today, the knock-on impact of yesterdays UK ATC systems failure means that some flights this morning were unfortunately unable to operate. We notified customers in advance, providing them with options to transfer their flight for free or receive a refund to help them rearrange their plans.

'While this is outside of our control, we apologise for the difficulty this has caused for our customers and we remain focused on doing all possible to assist and repatriate them as soon as possible at this very busy time of year.

'We recommend that all passengers continue to check their flight status on our flight tracker for real-time information before travelling to the airport.'

Nicky Kelvin says: For those that are able to postpone their travel, I would recommend doing so. Airlines such as British Airways are allowing passengers flying on short-haul flights today to change their flights, whether their flight is cancelled or not. You might therefore want to consider avoiding the chaos altogether if you can.
Sitting near a wailing toddler doesn't make for a particularly enjoyable flight.

With this in mind, airline Corendon is launching a zone where children are banned.

This 'Only Adult' area will be available on the carrier's A350 flights between Amsterdam and the Dutch Caribbean island of Curacao, launching from November 3 this year.

The zone will be in the front section of the aircraft and consist of nine 'XL' seats, with extra legroom, and 93 standard seats, according to Corendon.

The carrier explained that the zone will be physically separated from the rest of the aircraft 'by means of walls and curtains', which will 'create a shielded environment that contributes to a calm and relaxed flight'.

Airline Corendon is launching a zone (above) where children are banned

A seat reservation in the adult zone is for over-16s and costs 45 euros (38/$48) in the standard area and 100 euros (85/$107) in the XL zone.

The Dutch carrier added: 'This zone in the aircraft is intended for passengers travelling without children and for business travellers who want to work in a quiet environment. At the same time, the introduction of the Only Adult zone also has a positive effect for parents with children. They don't have to worry as much about possible reactions from fellow passengers if their child is a bit busier or cries.'

Atilay Uslu, founder of Corendon, said: 'On board our flights, we always strive to respond to the different needs of our customers. We are also the first Dutch airline to introduce the Only Adult zone, because we cater to travellers looking for some extra peace of mind during their flight. We also believe this can have a positive effect on parents travelling with small children. They can enjoy the flight without worrying if their children make more noise.'

The 'Only Adult' area will be available on Corendon's A350 flights between Amsterdam and the Dutch Caribbean island of Curacao, launching from November 3 this year

Corendon isn't the first airline to help passengers keen to keep their distance from youngsters.

Scoot, a low-cost subsidiary of Singapore Airlines that launched in 2012, offers the option for passengers to sit in a 'ScootinSilence' seat towards the front of the plane, where under-12s are banned.

And Japan Airlines has a feature on its booking system that indicates which seats on the plane will be occupied by infants up to the age of two.

More information via corendon.nl/naarcuracao.
Hollyoaks fans are set for another action-packed week of drama, with the village set to be rocked by a huge DNA bombshell.

Charlie Dean's mental health struggles are set to continue in hard-hitting scenes, as he continues to isolate himself from loved ones.

Maxine Minniver takes a drastic stance after being bombarded with upselling by her cosmetic surgeon, and could face dire consequences.

And influencer Rayne continues to hide her jealousy after a TV agent appears more interested in Lizzie, sparking a huge rivalry between the pair.

Here's everything you need to know about next week's action in Chester...

Ella's DNA results arrive

Tense! Ella finally receives the DNA results that will reveal the truth about her parentage - is Warren her dad?

Ella receives the DNA results and Norma tells her even if they're negative, she'd like them to remain friends.

Running late for school, Ella leaves the unopened results with Norma.

Cindy and Dave accompany Ella to Norma's for lunch and are shocked to discover Ella has taken a DNA test and try to convince her not to open the letter.

Warren and Mercedes turn up and the garage owner's temper rises when he discovers his mum and Ella have gone behind his back.

As Ella prepares to open the results, is Warren her dad?

Charlie's mental health struggles continue

Hard: Charlie's anxiety struggles continue to escalate, and he suffers another attack before Darren discovers the true state of his mental health after forcing his way into his room

Darren tells Charlie that Hollyoaks High have agreed to let him redo his year but the teen refuses to go back.

Darren pulls in Dillon and Shing Lin to try and persuade Charlie to come out of his room but it's to no avail.

Before Charlie manages to reach the band practise room, he is hit with an anxiety attack.

Shing Lin receives some concerning texts from Charlie, so she calls Darren, and as he and Tony force their way into the teen's room, they discover the wall full of dark lyrics. Furious, Charlie returns and pushes them out.

... as his anxiety reaches a shocking new low

Worrying: Later, Darren finds Charlie at the beach wandering into the sea, will he make it to his son in time?

Darren is struggling with knowing how to handle Charlie, who suffers another anxiety attack on his way to school.

Tony tells Darren that Charlie's lyrics looks like a cry for help and suggests he goes to let his son know he's listening.

Darren asks Shing Lin to call Charlie to see where he is, she makes an excuse and says it'll have to wait until after school thinking Charlie might just need some breathing space.

Shing Lin receives a picture of the beach from Charlie and shows Darren.

Darren manages to get in touch with Charlie but concerned him and Tony rush to find him.

In emotional scenes, Charlie walks into the sea with flashbacks of happy memories from his childhood with Darren always being there

Darren and Tony arrive to the beach... will they make it in time?

Hunter receives a shocking threat

At odds: Hunter receives a shocking threat from the new headteacher Carter after a shocking video circulates on social media

After seeking advice from fellow teacher Beau, Hunter decides to go to the new headteacher Mr Carter Shepherd to inform him of the video going around and how it's all a misunderstanding.

However things take an unexpected turn when Hunter discovers Freya is Carter's daughter and, after asking him to wait outside, the new headteacher returns with DS Zoe after reporting the incident.

Later, Goldie is shocked to discover that Carter is Hollyoaks High's new headmaster, while Hunter apologises to Zoe and asks for another chance.

In the school hall, Carter tells Hunter in a threatening tone he hopes the gossip on social media and the fact his family had to come in to fight his battles doesn't ruin his career.

Rayne's green-eyed monster rears its ugly head

Evil: Influencer Rayne continues to hide her jealousy after a TV agent appears more interested in Lizzie, sparking a huge rivalry between the pair

Faye tries to help Rayne with her career but the TV agents interest is distracted by Lizzie, believing she might be a perfect fit for an upcoming promotion leaving Rayne green with envy.

Faye offers Rayne some advice, but will the influencer be able to take it on board when it includes being nice?

Later, Rayne wants in on Lizzies promo event, while Dave and Sam come to support her.

When Zoe and Hunter bump into Rayne in the village, the DS leaves the influencer with a warning over how shes treating people.

When Rayne overhears Faye offer more work to Lizzie and her family, the influencer takes to her social media and shares cruel words about Lizzies appearance leaving her agent shocked.

Maxine takes drastic action

Hard: Maxine takes matters into her own hands and posts a video on social media warning people of the upselling she received on visiting Dr Cam

Maxine takes matters into her own hands and posts a video on social media warning people of the upselling she received on visiting Dr Cam.

How will he react?

Hollyoaks airs weekdays at 6:30pm on Channel 4, and first look episodes air at 7pm on E4.
He looked like any proud Upper West Side dad, pushing his youngest son in a stroller as his older boy tagged along.

The still-reeling friends of Edison Lopez, who police say stabbed his fiancee and their two kids in a gruesome murder-suicide inside their home, remembered him Tuesday as an upbeat man often seen walking the neighborhood streets in happier times.

I saw him the last time, he was on 80th St. and hes joking, said Alfonso Barrera, 84, whose son was close with Edison Lopez. Hes like joking all the time  Hes (like) part of my family. His (fiancee) was a nice girl, beautiful. Very nice.

Im feeling like Im dead. Im feeling like my family continued Barrera, his voice trailing off and his thought unfinished.

Lopez, 41, fatally stabbed fiancee Aleksandra Witek, 40, and sons Lucian, 3, and 1-year-old Calvin, before slitting his own throat inside their fourth-floor apartment on W. 86th St. near Riverside Drive. Lopez worked there as a super since his dad passed the position on to him. police said.

The bodies were discovered around 2:50 p.m. Monday.

Police believe Edison Lopez fatally stabbed his fiancee Aleksandra (pictured) and two sons Lucian, 3, and 1-year-old Calvin, before slitting his own throat inside their fourth-floor apartment on W. 86th St. near Riverside Drive on Monday.

Behind the scenes, tension was brewing in Lopezs world.

He had secured a new job as super of an apartment building in Hastings-On-Hudson in Westchester County.

As part of the transition to the new job, he had to be out of the apartment where he grew up by Friday, the first of the month. But their new apartment at the new job site wasnt ready for them, according to NYPD Assistant Chief Joseph Kenny.

Were looking to see if that had anything to do with this incident, he said. There were no indications at all that there were any problems in the household. No prior 911 calls, no domestic violence reports, nothing.

A neighbor told The News Lopez seemed excited about the new job.

I talked to him about it, said Richard Allen, 75, who lived on the sixth floor. He was happy about it  Last time I saw him, I said, I wish you well, I hope it goes great. He said, Im looking forward to it.'

Patricia Romain, a local hairstylist, leaves sunflowers and two toy cars in front of the familys building Tuesday.

The entire family had shared a play date with another couple and their two kids at the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum earlier on Monday, Kenny said.

The killer, who worked as the building superintendent, used three kitchen knives in the attack, with the bodies of the mom and kids found within feet of each other inside a hallway inside the one-bedroom apartment.

The mom and the children had numerous stab wounds and their throats slit, Kenny said. Lopez, he added, was found on the bed with one single wound to his neck, with his throat slit with a knife laying next to him on the bed.

Friends were shocked by the bloodshed.

No one that I know would have anything negative to say about him, said friend Alex Hawkins, 47, the daughter of Barrera and a close friend of Lopez for years. Its shocking. Its so surreal to me because knowing someone who was kind-hearted, so boisterous  You just cant wrap your mind around it.

A neighborhood worker recalled watching Lopez walking every morning with his two young sons  and the stay-at-home fiancee sometimes joining the happy trio.

Police investigate after four bodies were found in the apartment on West 86th St. on the Upper West Side Monday.

Im in shock because I cant picture this man doing this, said the 44-year-old local worker, who declined to give his name. Im lost for words. Every time I seen him, he was happy. They were always together.

The family of the mother, in a GoFundMe page post, wrote how they became worried after she stopped responding to calls and messages and didnt show up for (family) commitments.

Witek, known to her family as Ola, was described as a proud Polish mom who made the lives of her boys bright and full.

Lopezs position as building super was handed down from his father when the older man left to care for another property, said neighbors.

Local hairstylist Patricia Romain came to the building Tuesday morning to leave a bouquet of four sunflowers and two toys cars  one red, one yellow  on the front stoop.

Ive lived here over 20 years, she said. Just to think this was going on just a few blocks away, its tragic. Theres no words.

Police investigate after four bodies were found in the apartment on West 86th St. on the Upper West Side Monday.

Lopezs mother came to visit the grandchildren earlier Monday but was unable to get into the apartment. She called her husband, who told the Daily News that he summoned police after getting a peek inside to see his sons fiancees body lying on the floor.

No note was found and Lopez had no criminal record, police sources said.

They seem very happily married and then they had this lovely family and now theyre moving to Westchester and everything was perfect, said longtime tenant Lynne Allen, who watched Lopez grow up in the building.

(Lopez) was my cat-sitter when he was a young teen and just a great guy. Great, lovely family and adorable little children.
She's just confirmed her relationship with Stormzy is back on after making a first public appearance on holiday together in Greece on Sunday.

And now Maya Jama has returned to Instagram with a dump of photos from her trip to the Hydra Island.

The Love Island presenter, 29, looked glowing in the sexy snaps that she shared from her lavish trip away, but is yet to debut Stormzy, 30, on her social media.

She looked incredible in a tiny black bikini and showed off her ample cleavage as she posed for a sizzling selfie.

Her skin looked picture-perfect and she looked radiant following the exciting summer she has had which is now topped off with her new relationship.

Rekindled: She's just confirmed her relationship with Stormzy is back on after making a first public appearance on holiday together in Greece on Sunday

Gorgeous: And now Maya Jama has returned to Instagram with a dump of photos from her trip to the Hydra Island

She enjoyed a swanky helicopter ride and jetted out with a private plane to the stunning island.

In another snap she took a photo in her reflection showing her silhouette in the window.

Maya stunned in a orange backless dress as posed a sultry look for the camera.

She shared snaps of the interior of the private jet and looked as happy as ever in the photo with a huge smile on her face.

The couple were spotted walking hand-in-hand as they ventured out on Island together, since rumours of a romantic reconciliation surfaced more than a week ago.

The Croydon-born rapper, real name Michael Omari Owuo Jr. was dressed appropriately in a white vest and matching shorts as temperatures soared across the picturesque Greek island.

Insiders told The Sun that the pairs relationship was secretly rekindled a year ago as they were reportedly seen kissing in an extra special VIP area at the in Germany, days before the GQ bash in London.

Wow: The Love Island presenter, 29, looked glowing in the sexy snaps that she shared from her lavish trip away, but is yet to debut Stormzy, 30, on her social media

Beaming: Her skin looked picture-perfect and she looked radiant following the exciting summer she has had which is now topped off with her new relationship

Sexy: Maya stunned in a orange backless dress as posed a sultry look for the camera

Slender: In another snap she took a photo in her reflection showing her silhouette in the window

Lavish: She enjoyed a swanky helicopter ride and jetted out with a private plane to the stunning island

And it has also been claimed that Stormzy's mum, Abigail Owuo, was the matchmaker who 'motivated him to make amends with Maya.'

A source told The Sun: 'Stormzy is really open about wanting to settle down and have kids one day and he knows Maya is "The One".'

The pair are believed to be soaking up the sun in a 2,700-a-night Greek villa as a 'late birthday gift' to the Love Island host.

Speculation had been rife about whether Maya and Stormzy had reunited, after she was spotted at his All Points East show last weekend.

The couple dated for four years before parting ways in 2019, with the rapper, publicly declaring he has 'never loved anyone how I've loved her'.

He has always denied any infidelity in the relationship but admitted he had to learn some hard lessons about his behaviour, describing it as 'disrespectful'.

Speaking to Louis Theroux on his interview series, the rapper admitted to making mistakes during their four-year relationship but revealed he has since grown.

He explained: 'My break-up, that was probably the biggest catalyst for growth as a man. It was like, OK, you made a mistake and you lose someone you loved, someone you cared for, someone who is special to you.

'Thats probably the biggest loss a man can have, isnt it? Away from someone passing away, thats the biggest loss you can have.'
The Bachelor star Brooke Cleal has revealed she's in a same-sex relationship.

The runner-up in Jimmy Nicholson's season of the reality TV hit took to Instagram on Sunday to debut her relationship with Alyssa Viktoria.

The reality TV star, 29, shared several loved-up photos of the couple, including them holding hands in London and sharing a kiss.

In a caption Brooke acknowledged, 'the struggles I have experienced behind the scenes and the progression I've made within myself and my sexuality in the last 2 years.'

She added, 'I've been so torn between excitement and fear for months, mostly worried of rejection and scrutiny for the second time in my life. The suppression of my feelings caused sleepless nights and significant frustration and questions.'

The Bachelor star Brooke Cleal (right) has revealed she's in a same-sex relationship. Pictured with Alyssa Viktoria

Cleal also addressed questions she'd received about if she had questioned her sexuality while vying for Nicholson's heart on The Bachelor.

'People have asked me if I knew about this before the show - the truth is perhaps it was always there without acknowledgement, understanding or exploration,' she wrote.

Reflecting on her new romance, Brooke wrote, 'As soon as I met [Alyssa] she had this energy so individualistic, I just magnetised.'

The reality TV star, 29, shared several loved-up photos of the couple, including them holding hands in London and sharing a kiss

In a caption Brooke acknowledged, 'the struggles I have experienced behind the scenes and the progression I've made within myself and my sexuality in the last 2 years'

'Full of fun, charisma, intellect and wit continuing to leave me speechless. Ive found someone to slow down with and share something so real,' she added.

Brooke concluded, 'you inspire me every single second of the day and Im so in awe with you!'

More images of the couple showed Brooke and Alyssa dancing on a jetty at sunset and sunbathing topless on a beach.

More images of the couple showed Brooke and Alyssa dancing on a jetty at sunset and sunbathing topless on a beach

Reflecting on her new romance, Brooke wrote, 'As soon as I met [Alyssa] she had this energy so individualistic, I just magnetised'

The big reveal comes just weeks after Jimmy Nicholson wed Brooke's Bachelor rival Holly Kingston.

The couple, who met on season nine of the Channel 10 series in 2021, wed at Jimmy's parents home in Sydney's Palm Beach in the first week of August.

Jimmy famously broke Brooke's heart in the 2021 show finale, telling her, 'There was just too many unknowns for us,' before sending her home in tears.

The big reveal comes just weeks after Jimmy Nicholson wed Brooke's Bachelor rival Holly Kingston (left, with Jimmy)

'That was tough to watch. Brooke is an amazing girl,' the pilot later told The Project, adding that he and winner Holly were planning to give her a call.

'It was pretty heartbreaking then. Watching it last night was rough. I've been wanting to reach out to Brooke; we both have.'

Jimmy went on: 'We need to give her space and I think in the future, I'd love to send her a message [to] make sure she's okay.'
Aquaman star Jason Momoa is the latest A-lister to snap up a swanky home in the picturesque Cornish village of Mawgan Porth, near Newquay.

The action hero, 44, is believed to have 'fallen in love' with the scenic area after filming his blockbuster DC movie in nearby Devon.

According to The Sun the actor will be joining the likes of Oscar winner Cate Blanchett and Jamie Dornan who are all said to have holiday homes nearby.

Jason has been spotted eyeing-up a clifftop home which the locals have dubbed Hollywood-on-Sea.

With one telling the publication: 'Jason filmed for Aquaman and The Lost Kingdom two hours from here, at Saunton Sands in Devon, and loved the pace of life'.

Moving in? Aquaman star Jason Momoa, 44, is the latest A-lister to snap up a swanky mansion in the picturesque Cornish village of Mawgan Porth, near Newquay

Picturesque: The action hero is believed to have 'fallen in love' with the area after filming his blockbuster DC movie in nearby Devon (Mawgan Porth pictured)

'There is a place on the cliffs which he has apparently fallen in love with and now wants to buy'.

Adding: 'These kinds of home are being transformed into the luxury places you see on Grand Designs, so he would be able to make it very special. It's the talk of Mawgan that Jason is going to be the next big star moving in'.

The Cornwall resident went on to add that although some are not thrilled at the idea of celebrities descending on the village, others are 'excited' at the thought of going about everyday tasks and finding themselves browsing in the supermarket next to the DC superhero himself.

MailOnline have contacted Jason's reps for comment.

The small village of Mawgan Porth is situated approximately four miles North of Newquay and boasts stunning sandy beach popular with surfers.

There is also a pub, general store and several hotels and was the home of famed German sculptor Faust Lang from 1936 to 1949.

Other famous faces who have set up home in the area include Stanley Tucci, Jason Statham and Dawn French.

Last year, a source revealed that Oscar-winning actress Cate, 54, had snapped up a property in the town - thought to be worth more than 2m - and her agent later confirmed that the news was true.

Neighbours: The actor will be joining the likes of Oscar winner Cate Blanchett

On the market: Jason has been spotted by locals eyeing-up a clifftop home which the locals have dubbed Hollywood-on-Sea

A source told the MailOnline: 'The talk of Mawgan Porth is that Cate has bought a home here!'

Just months later, a fan couldn't believe it when they spotted Hollywood star Jamie Dornan - who is known for starring as Christian Grey in the 'Fifty Shades' film series - at a petrol station after he moved into the area.

Alongside a selfie of herself and Jamie, she wrote on Instagram: 'I went to get fuel and thought no way it can't be but it was Mr grey himself!'(sic)
Stephen Reid was finally caught out in Coronation Street during Monday night's episode, but fans were furious to discover he still might not face justice.

The Businessman, played by Todd Boyce, has murdered three people over the last year, recently ending the life of rival Rufus Donahue (Steven Meo) in what appeared to be a drowning.

His niece Sarah Barlow finally found proof that Stephen had stolen money from Audrey's equity line after speaking to his ex-wife Gabrielle.

Gabrielle warned Sarah that Stephen has no loyalty to his family, after a letter had turned up from the bank informing Audrey that money had been removed from her equity line.

Sarah confronted Stephen at the factory, warning him that she was aware he'd stolen money from Audrey.

Evil: Stephen Reid was finally caught out in Coronation Street during Monday night's episode, but fans were furious to discover he still might not face justice

Sarah demanded: 'I'll keep quiet but you pay her back, every penny you took. I'm not doing this to save your skin, I'm doing this for gran. It would kill her if she knew.'

However, she put her uncle on notice: 'You've shown me your true colours now and I will never believe another word you say. Ever!'

The episode left off with Stephen deeply unsettled by Sarah's warning, and fans were furious that he hadn't fully been exposed yet.

One viewer wrote: 'Stephen lives to scam another day'

Another said: 'And so it begins to unravel for Stephen, thank goodness!'

A third added: 'The walls close in for Stephen'

It comes after Stephen was seen making his possible exit from Weatherfield as actor Todd Boyce was filmed dashing through the airport on Monday.

He caused havoc on the cobbles as he attempted to gain control of the local underwear factory Underworld, drugging the boss Carla Connor (Alison King).

The criminal also attempted to drug and kill his fiancee Elaine Metcalfe (Paula Wilcox), seeing her wind up in hospital, while he has also accidentally drugged himself along the way.

This week, actor Todd was seen filming scenes as Stephen, with the character arriving at the airport before dashing over towards a ticket desk.

Stephen was only seen carrying a black leather briefcase with him, suggesting he was making a quick dash for it and travelling light.

Pressure mounted for Stephen last week, when Lou Donahue (Eleanor Howell) made an unexpected appearance.

She was expressing her devastation over her husband Rufus' death, who Stephen murdered.

Furious: Sarah confronted Stephen at the factory, warning him that she was aware he'd stolen money from Audrey

Villain: The episode left off with Stephen deeply unsettled by Sarah's warning, and fans were furious that he hadn't fully been exposed yet

Stephen looked on edge while Lou insinuated that someone could have done something to Stephen despite his drowning previously looking like an accident.

Viewers were convinced Lou could be in danger as Stephen may be try to silence her for good.

One wrote on Twitter: 'How long before Lou is buried 6 foot under the Bistro then?'

Another said: 'Even Lou knows that Rufus' death doesn't adds up which means at this point Stephen must be planning on what part of Underworld to bury her under.'

A third added: 'Is Stephen gonna kill the whole of Coronation Street until he gets caught?'

He saw off Jenny Connor's (Sally Ann Matthews) fiance Leo Thompkins (Joe Frost) in a flashback episode last year, and both his father Teddy Thompkins (Grant Burgin) and a former client Rufus this year.

The ruthless criminal has also been attempting to kill off Underworld boss Carla by continuously drugging her and tried to murder his fiancee Elaine.

In addition, he has terrorised some local teenagers who attempted to buy drugs from him.

Artificial intelligence has even waded in on who Stephen could put an end to next in a dramatic twist.

According to the Daily Star , Bard AI states the exact identity of Stephen's next victim is 'unknown' but there are a number of possibilities.

Next victim? Pressure mounted for Stephen last week, when Lou Donahue (Eleanor Howell) made an unexpected appearance

Stephen recently took out a life insurance policy on Elaine which means that if she dies, her entire estate would be left to him.

He has been taking 380 each month from Underworld's accounts to pay for the life insurance, paying the money to a mystery business named Seagull Ltd.

However, Carla told him Owen Longford (Ben Hull) wants to inspect the company accounts, prompting Stephen to become very concerned.

Bard AI's software stated: 'Stephen has already tried to kill Elaine once, and he may not give up until she is dead. Elaine is also a wealthy woman, and Stephen is motivated by her money.'

Coronation Street continues on ITV1 and ITVX on Wednesday at 8pm.
Christine McGuinness showed off her washboard abs in a tiny pink bikini as she soaked up the sun during a family holiday on Sunday.

The model, 35, was forced to extend her holiday following a 'huge failure' of the national air traffic control system, which has caused delays and cancellations of flights.

However, Christine kept in full spirits and made use of the extra time away as she relaxed on the sun lounger.

She took to Instagram and showed off her chiselled abs and tiny waist in the strapy two-piece and showed off her natural beauty with a bare face.

The Real Housewives of Cheshire star put on a busty display and flashed her ample cleavage in the skimpy beachwear.

Busty: Christine McGuinness showed off her washboard abs in a tiny pink bikini as she soaked up the sun during a family holiday on Sunday

Stranded: The model, 35, was forced to extend her holiday following a 'huge failure' of the national air traffic control system, which has caused delays and cancellations of flights

It comes after Radio host Jordan North was left stranded at Malaga airport due to the air traffic chaos on Monday.

Britain's National Air Traffic Services (NATS) said it experienced 'technical issues' that forced controllers to switch from an automatic system for landing and dispatching flights to a manual one.

Updating her fans on the issue, Christine embraced the problem and recalled that everything happens for a reason.

She took to Instagram on Monday and wrote: 'Stranded due to network failures across the UK airports.

'No idea when we can get a flight home but I feel very lucky we found a place to stay.

'I get extra time to make more memories with my babies.'

She later added another post and penned: 'I trust the universe. I had jobs booked all week, a million things to do at home getting ready to prep for 'back to school' but...

'We were meant to stay longer, we have more memories to make, time with my babies is priceless, I actually feel very grateful, we're not home, but we have everything we need'.

Keeping positive: Christine kept in full spirits and made use of the extra time away as she relaxed on the sun lounger

Extended trip: Updating her fans on the issue, Christine embraced the problem and recalled that everything happens for a reason

Home life: It comes after the model made a rare statement about her relationship with her ex-husband Paddy last week after the pair celebrated his 50th birthday together

Christine has jetted off on a late summer break with her three children before they head back to school.

The snaps come after Christine made a rare statement about her relationship with her ex-husband last week after the pair celebrated his 50th birthday together.

The TV personality 'spilled the tea' about the amicable former couple who live together in their family home to co-parent their children, Penelope, nine, and twins Felicity and Leo, seven.

Taking to her Instagram Stories, she said the family had celebrated TV star Paddy's 50th together, sharing a shot of his birthday cake.

Hitting back at reports she skipped the occasion, she wrote: 'Patrick is my ex, my ex of well over a year (let me just remind you, I did not cause the breakdown of our marriage). I have never spoken about this fully and I will also remind everyone that I am not silenced and will speak/when I choose to.

'I got him a birthday cake, presents and made cards with our children. I done this for our children to celebrate daddy's birthday...

'We spent his 50th at home together and we celebrated separately with his friends on various different holidays over the last few weeks... Trust me, I wish I was still on that holiday.

'Don't believe everything you read. Yours sincerely, just a mum doing the best she can while living with her ex going through a divorce smiling when she wants to cry and juggling the summer holidays.'
Calls are being made for Kanye West and his 'wife' Bianca Censori to be arrested over their latest outrageous display in Italy.

The couple sparked controversy yet again on Monday during a trip to Venice after they were spotted enjoying an amorous moment on a boat, with West exposing his bare buttocks in front of gawking tourists.

Images of the couple showed the American rapper, 46, seated at the back of the river taxi while his Australian so-called bride, 28, placed her head in his lap.

Online critics have argued that the flesh-baring display constituted 'public indecency,' a charge which comes with a fine of up to 309 (AU$520), according to the Italian Constitutional Court.

'How are these two not arrested for lewd behaviour?' one commenter complained, as another agreed: 'Public indecency! Keep it for the privacy of your own home.'

Calls are being made for Kanye West and his 'wife' Bianca Censori to be arrested over their latest outrageous display in Italy on Monday

Someone else added: 'Italian authorities need to arrest them for indecency doing that lewd and disgusting behaviour in public. There are clearly crowds, kids probably saw.'

Yet another user complained: 'What is the matter with them? Maybe time the police stepped in,' as someone else asked: 'Why won't the Italian government police or someone stop them?'

Other users said the bawdy display was 'disrespectful' to residents of the conservative Catholic nation.

Online critics have argued that the flesh-baring display constituted 'public indecency,' a charge for which comes with a fine according to the Italian Constitutional Court. (Censori is pictured in yet another risque in Italy on Sunday)

'This kind of dumb stunt is what helps paint all Americans as having zero class or respect,' one user lamented.

'I wish the police would arrest these two for their ignorant behaviour. They are making a mockery of the country,' another added.

Other concerned fans have questioned whether the bizarre display is proof that the rapper is 'controlling' Bianca.

Other users said the bawdy display was 'disrespectful' to residents of the conservative Catholic nation. (The couple are pictured together in Italy earlier this month)

'Cant anyone see that both of these people need help? Where is this woman's family and surely Kanye has people that are interested in his well being,' one wrote.

'Poor girl. She looks miserable,' one commented, as someone else added: 'Well she certainly doesn't look happy.'

Another fan claimed Bianca 'needs to get out of that sick relationship' while someone else wrote: 'How humiliating for you. That poor woman needs help. She looks miserable. Free Bianca!'

Other concerned fans have questioned whether the bizarre display is proof that the rapper is 'controlling' Bianca

One user branded Kanye a 'sicko' for the explicit display.

Prior to boarding the boat, West was covered from head-to-toe in an all-black ensemble while Censori wore a knee-length trench coat which she teamed with a pair of nude heels.

However both shed their layers once getting on board, with Censori ditching her coat in favour of a a strapless nude-coloured number as West pulled down his pants which exposed his bare behind.

Kanye and Bianca wed in a private ceremony in Beverly Hills in January, about two months after the rapper's divorce to Kim Kardashian was finalised

It appeared that things were getting very steamy as Censori rested her elbows on his knees while he was then seen cradling her head as they sailed along the river.

West and Censor have sparked fury among locals over the past month for their odd wardrobe choices while holidaying in Italy, with critics especially taking aim at Censori for 'going around virtually naked' in the conservative Catholic country.

The brunette has stepped out on several occasions with her bare breasts clearly visible beneath see-through mesh outfits.

However, the legality of the union is in question, as they did not file a marriage certificate. (The couple are pictured in Los Angeles in May)

Among them was the outrageous nude catsuit - which saw her forced to cover her nipples with a black cross-body bag.

According to major tourism website CIU Travel, locals find it 'offensive' to see visitors 'wandering the streets in varying states of undress.'

The website reads: 'Walking around in beach attire or, worse, shirtless, is a huge no-no in Italy, unless you have your feet buried deep in the sand.'

Bianca has a degree in architecture and worked Kanye's design company Yeezy prior to their getting together

It remains to be seen whether West or Censori will face any form of official punishment for their latest over-the-top display.

The fashion designer  who is widely believed to be behind all of Censori's recent and controversial looks  and his new muse were first romantically linked in January 2023 just months after his divorce was finalised.

The couple wed in a private ceremony in Beverly Hills in January, about two months after the rapper's divorce to Kim Kardashian was finalized.

However, the legality of the union is in question, as they did not file a marriage certificate.

Previously, Kardashian filed for divorce in February 2021 after six years of marriage.

Throughout their longtime romance, West often called her his 'muse' and heavily influenced her fashion choices.

The former couple share four children together  North, 10, Saint, seven, Chicago, five, and Psalm, four.
Jimmy Nicholson and Holly Kingston ended their weekend with a fright on Sunday when they hit severe turbulence during a flight to Spain.

The Bachelor newlyweds, who tied the knot earlier this month, are starting the Barcelona leg of their luxury honeymoon after spending three weeks in Italy.

The duo were left clinging to one another for comfort as pilot Jimmy, 33, documented 'the worst turbulence' he's ever seen to TikTok.

In the scary footage, the hunky captain showed he and Holly, 29, sitting in the back of their plane as it bounced around.

'Some of the worst turbulence I've ever felt. It's a short flight. It's not comfortable,' he began his video.

Jimmy Nicholson and Holly Kingston ended their weekend with a fright on Sunday when they hit severe turbulence during a flight to Spain

Despite Holly appearing frightened by the bad turbulence, Jimmy managed to remain calm as he gave his followers tips on how to sooth their anxiety.

He told viewers if they ever found themselves on a rough flight, they should remind themselves 'it's completely normal' and 'the plane isn't going to fall out of the sky'.

Jimmy also advised them to turn on the air and look out the window to help remind themselves they are safe, and said if their drinking water isn't moving much then they have nothing to worry about.

The duo were left clinging to one another for comfort as pilot Jimmy, 33, documented 'the worst turbulence' he's ever seen to TikTok

'So we are at the back of the plane. So it's worse here. It's not comfortable,' he added as he showed Holly holding his hand tightly.

'Probably some of the worst I've been in. It could be widespread storms. So they just have to pick their path of least resistance and go through it.

'Also, nothing to worry about. Planes are built to withstand way worse. Not fun evidently, but completely fine. Some of the worst turbulence I've ever felt.'

Jimmy managed to remain calm as he gave his followers tips on how to sooth their anxiety. He advised passengers to turn on the air and look out the window to help remind themselves they are safe, and said if their drinking water isn't moving much they have nothing to worry about

The shocking video ended with the plane settling as it passed through the rough skies, prompting all the passengers to applaud the pilots.

The happy couple landed safely and shared fun photos from their luxury holiday just hours later.

Posting a reel of images to her Instagram, Holly wrote, 'Barcelona, you are something else!' alongside an image of the lovebirds cuddling up to each other.

They began their first day in style as they followed their stomachs through the cosmopolitan capital with Holly pouring her figure into a white couture minidress.

The happy couple landed safely and shared fun photos from their luxury holiday just hours later

Posting a reel of photos to her Instagram, Holly wrote, 'Barcelona, you are something else!' alongside an image of the lovebirds cuddling up to each other

They began their first day in style as they followed their stomachs through the cosmopolitan capital with Holly pouring her figure into a white couture minidress
Sir David Attenborough is set to return to our screens this autumn to host a third season of the BBC favourite Planet Earth.

At the age of 97, Sir David has landed himself the job to present the show for a third time running.

According to The Mirror, BBC bosses are thrilled to see the broadcaster remain with the hit show for another season.

He has reportedly started to film his introductory scenes and has recorded the narration of the wildlife series.

Sir David hosted the first Planet Earth series in 2006 and ten years later filmed a sequel season.

Presenter: Sir David Attenborough is set to return to our screens this autumn to host a third season of the BBC favourite Planet Earth

Incredible: At the age of 97, Sir David has landed himself the job to present the show for a third time running

This season, which is set to be released in a few months, has been nearly five years in the making after it was commissioned in 2019 and then delayed by the pandemic.

The executive producer Mike Gunton told the publication that the series wouldn't have been the same without David and expressed his gratitude towards him.

He said: 'Planet Earth wouldn't be Planet Earth without David, so I'm delighted he is presenting the third series.

'The opening of the series with David was filmed in the beautiful British countryside in exactly the location where Charles Darwin used to walk whilst thinking over his Earth-shaking ideas about evolution.

'It seemed the perfect place for David to introduce Planet Earth III and remind us of both the wonders and the fragility of our planet.'

In 2016, Planet Earth II won a Bafta for the scenes showing snakes chasing a young iguana, filmed in the Galapagos islands.

In the new series, fans can expect seven episodes of behind the scenes footage of animals around the world.

And in the eighth episode, it will be a celebration of human 'heroes' who dedicate their lives to trying to save certain species.

He's back: He has reportedly started to film his introductory scenes and has recorded the narration of the wildlife series

News of the series comes as it was revealed that Sir David had come second to Peter Kay in a poll to see who Brits would most like to join on a road trip.

Following news that 64% of Brits see their car as their ultimate happy place, Peter Kay took the top spot as the most sought-after car companion while Sir David came in second ahead of Dame Judi Dench in third.

The study, to support the launch of Moja, AXA UK's digital-only insurance brand, looked into the nation's ideal driving scenario after research showed how happy and free drivers feel when on the road.

Tara Foley, CEO at AXA UK Retail, comments: 'This research shows that some of the most important moments centre around your car, such as bringing your child home for the first time or making great memories with friends.

'With more than 60% of people saying that the car is their ultimate happy place, it shows how important it is to make the overall driving experience as stress free as possible to keep those happy times going.

'This is what we're aiming to do with Moja, by making motor insurance simpler, fairer and always there for our customers.'
Steve Harvey's wife Marjorie recently became the subject of attention after the television mainstay's wife was faced with allegations of cheating.

Rumors centered on the alleged infidelity of the 66-year-old media figure's spouse have been circulating on X, formerly known as Twitter, over the past few days.

The Family Feud host, whose stepdaughter recently shared several snaps from her recent trip to Disneyland, has since denied the claims and stated that his 'marriage is fine' during a recent live appearance.

The performer's wife also released her own response to the claims and has attempted to 'address all the foolishness and lies' surrounding her relationship with her husband.

As such, Daily Mail looks into Marjorie's family life and her longstanding relationship with the entertainer.

In hot water: Steve Harvey's wife Marjorie recently became the subject of attention after the television mainstay's wife was faced with allegations of cheating; she is seen in May

No worries: The Family Feud host, whose stepdaughter recently shared several snaps from her recent trip to Disneyland, has since denied the claims and stated that his 'marriage is fine' during a recent live appearance; he is seen with his wife in 2019

WHO IS MARJORIE?

Marjorie Harvey was born on October 10, 1964, and was raised in Memphis, Tennessee.

The social media personality attended the University of Memphis, although she dropped out in order to pursue a career in the fashion industry.

She went on to start a fashion-oriented blog, although it has been inactive since 2018.

The entrepreneur also co-founded a charitable organization, The Steve and Marjorie Harvey Foundation, with her husband in 2010.

From humble beginnings: Marjorie Harvey was born on October 10, 1964 and was raised in Memphis, Tennessee; she is seen with Steve in 2019

RELATIONSHIP WITH HER EXES

Marjorie first marriage was to Jim Townsend, with whom she tied the knot in the mid-1990s.

The former couple remained together for several years before Townsend was sentenced to life in prison after he was caught while attempting to purchase 40 kilograms of cocaine.

The entrepreneur divorced her husband several years into his sentence, although he was pardoned after 26 years by former president Barack Obama.

Marjorie eventually moved on with Darnell Woods, and the pair's short-lived marriage both began and ended in the early 2000s.

The social media personality does not appear to have spoken publicly about her relationship with her second husband.

Moving along: Marjorie first marriage was with Jim Townsend, and she later moved on with Darnell Woods; she is seen with Steve in 2016

HOW DID SHE MEET STEVE HARVEY?

Marjorie and Steve initially met during a comedy show that took place in Memphis in 1990.

The entrepreneur first caught her husband's eye after she made a late arrival at his performance, and she spoke about their initial encounter during a 2018 episode of The Steve Harvey Show.

She recalled that 'I thought he was going to give me the business because he got real quiet. He was just staring at me.'

Marjorie added: 'He finally realized, "Oh, I gotta say something." He was, like, "Oh, I'm sorry. I don't know who this is, but I'm gonna marry her."'

Steve was previously married to his first wife, Marcia, from 1981 until 1994, and he was subsequently married to Mary Shackelford from 1996 until 2005.

The pair went on to begin a short-lived relationship that ended after just a few weeks when the comedian broke things off with his now-wife.

In the past: Marjorie and Steve initially met during a comedy show that took place in Memphis in 1990; they are seen in July

WHEN DID SHE RECONNECT WITH HER HUSBAND?

Marjorie and Steve eventually reconnected in 2005 after his bodyguard suggested that he reach out to the social media personality.

The comedian subsequently spoke to People and explained that he had broken off their past relationship with his spouse in order to focus on his then-burgeoning career in comedy.

He told the media outlet that re-establishing his relationship with his partner 'was like being reborn. I messed up so many times in my life. She made all the difference.'

Marjorie added that 'when Steve came back into my life, it was effortless.'

The happy couple went on to tie the knot in 2007, and they have remained together ever since then.

Putting a ring on it: Marjorie and Steve eventually reconnected in 2005, and they tied the knot in 2007

HOW MANY KIDS DOES MARJORIE HAVE?

Marjorie previously welcomed a pair of daughters named Morgan and Lori, 38 and 26, as well as a son named Jason, 31, during her previous relationships.

The entrepreneur also serves as a stepmother to her husband's daughters Karli and Brandi, 40, as well as his sons Broderick and Wynton, 31 and 26.

The social media personality has since become a grandmother to nearly ten children.

She frequently shares photos featuring her kids on her Instagram account.

Big family: Marjorie previously welcomed a pair of daughters named Morgan and Lori, 38 and 26, as well as a son named Jason, 31, during her previous relationships, and she serves as a stepmother to Steve's children

CHEATING ALLEGATIONS

Marjorie was faced with allegations of cheating earlier this month after YouTuber Keem made a now-deleted post on X.

According to Fox News, the media personality wrote that the entrepreneur had cheated on [Steve] with the bodyguard & the personal chef.'

After the tweet became the subject of numerous memes, the comedian responded to the claims during an appearance at Invest Fest 2023, which was held in Atlanta on Sunday

In a video that was shared on a fan's TikTok account, the performer stated: 'Before I get started, just let me say, I'm fine. Marriage is fine.'

The comedian then asked that fans refrain from looking into his marriage, stating: 'I don't know what y'all are doing, but find something else to do cause we fine, Lord have mercy.'

He added: Sometimes you wanna respond, but I ain't got no time for rumors and gossip.

Speaking her mind: Marjorie responded to the claims in a post that was shared on her Instagram account on Sunday

Marjorie responded to the claims in a post that was shared on her Instagram account on Sunday.

The entrepreneur wrote a lengthy statement that began: 'My husband and I don't usually stop to address all the foolishness and lies that have been spread about us.'

She continued: 'However to whom much is given much is required. I understand that with my platform comes some sort of responsibility to those that may not be as strong as we are.'

Marjorie concluded her statement by writing: 'God Bless all of you.'
David Hockney: A Celebration

Rating:

The Tower

Rating:

Where was the trigger warning? These days, after all, supermarkets have to shield tobacco products behind shutters for fear of vulnerable individuals catching sight of 20 Bensons.

And when a theatre in London staged a play about Groucho Marx last year, audiences were alerted by email to the danger of witnessing an actor with 'a prop cigar'.

Yet viewers of David Hockney: A Celebration (Sky Arts) were confronted without warning by the spectacle of the world's greatest living artist chatting  while smoking cigarettes. What's more, he was unrepentant. 'Smoking doesn't matter,' he told Melvyn Bragg. 'Some people can smoke and some people can't. It's just all these bossy people, I think. Too many.'

Through a cloud of fumes, he pointed to a nicotine yellow badge on his lapel that read, 'End bossiness soon,' and chuckled over the diffident wording: 'If I'd have put "End bossiness now," well, that would have been a bit too bossy, wouldn't it?'

Hockney lives in France, thank goodness. If he'd tried lighting up in front of a film crew in his native Yorkshire, someone might have turned a fire extinguisher on him.

Viewers of David Hockney: A Celebration (Sky Arts) were confronted without warning by the spectacle of the world's greatest living artist chatting  while smoking cigarettes. Hockney is pictured with Melvyn Bragg

'Smoking doesn't matter,' Hockney told Bragg. 'Some people can smoke and some people can't. It's just all these bossy people, I think. Too many.'

Aged 86, he shows no sign of being extinguished. This gentle retrospective  artist and interviewer are old chums  showcased every stage of his multivarious career, from the defiantly crude early images to the glorious Californian swimming pools, and collages of photos to vibrant landscapes created with an iPad.

Some of his anecdotes have been recited so often they have become almost meaningless to him. He garbled the oft-told joke of how he was inspired by a 1960s newspaper headline: 'Man clings all night to cliff,' fantasising that it referred to Cliff Richard.

Other stories were more illuminating, as Melvyn coaxed him to talk about his parents. The first painting Hockney ever sold, for 10 in 1954 while he was still at art school, was of his father. The teenage portraitist was reluctant to let the work go, until Dad pointed out, 'You can do another'  a philosophy he's lived by ever since.

In 2018, another vintage Hockney portrait, of a soon-to-be-ex-boyfriend, sold for $90 million (71m), an auction record for a work by a living artist. You have to hope that whoever bought that first picture for a tenner looked after it.

No one was actually smoking in the CID room, as The Tower (ITV1) returned, but there was some distinctly old-school banter. DS Sarah Collins (Gemma Whelan), transferring to the homicide squad, found herself teamed with a lazy, mouthy detective constable known to everyone as Fat Elaine (Ella Smith). This crime drama made a shaky start when it launched in 2019. DS Collins seemed to be defined by her orange anorak and her strops, rather than any talent as a detective.

Gemma Whelan as DS Sarah Collins and Jimmy Akingbola as DC Steve Bradshaw

But the series has found its feet and so has she, so much that ITV has already ordered a third season. It's particularly good at building an interview scene, allowing time for the dialogue to circle and then spiral inwards until it reaches the point.

Tahirah Sharif plays rookie PC Lizzie Adama, cleared of misconduct but still apt to let her emotions run away with her and upset an investigation. DS Collins can't stand her, and so of course they'll have to solve a crime together.

But the real clash is between the face fur of the two leading men, Emmett J. Scanlan as a smooth-talking detective inspector and Jimmy Akingbola as our heroine's former boyfriend.

Jimmy's whiskers are bushier, Emmett's more waxed, but it's obvious that both men spend more time thinking about their beards than catching bad guys.
The Upper West Side apartment on W. 86th St. was home to decades of good memories for the Lopez family  before turning into a nightmarish crime scene, according to the devastated family patriarch.

The father of Edison Lopez told the Daily News on Tuesday how his wife arrived at their sons apartment to babysit their two grandkids around 9:30 a.m. one day earlier only to find her knocking went unanswered.

My wife was supposed to take care of the little one, said dad Mario Lopez, referring to 1-year-old Calvin. She couldnt get inside the apartment. She started texting. She started calling. Then she called me and I went there.

Police investigate after four bodies were found in the apartment on W. 86th St. in Manhattan Monday.

The elder Lopez came over with his tools and poked out the lock before peering inside to see his daughter-in-law Aleksandra Witek, 40, lying dead inside the apartment.

Authorities arrived to find the bodies of Edison Lopez, 41, along with sons Calvin and 3-year-old Lucian in the apparent Monday murder-suicide. Paramedics pronounced all four victims dead at the scene.

Lopez stabbed his baby sons and fiancee with three kitchen knives before slitting his own throat, cops believe.

We were in touch with them almost every day, said Mario Lopez of the sons family. Thats why, when my wife went, it was agreed upon the day before.

The elder Lopez had worked in the same building as superintendent before his son took over the position, with the grandfather of two recalling Edison grew up there and then raised his own family inside the Upper West Side building.

Police believe Edison Lopez fatally stabbed his fiancee Aleksandra (pictured) and two sons Lucian, 3, and 1-year-old Calvin, before slitting his own throat inside their fourth-floor apartment on W. 86th St. near Riverside Drive on Monday.

The senior Lopez recounted there were no warning signs of any problems with his son or the family.

If you saw their children, how they are, theyre very adjusted people, said Mario Lopez. You can tell when a couple is having problems because the kids act it out.

Mario Lopez remained unconvinced his son was to blame for the carnage inside the apartment.

They said it was a murder-suicide, which is not confirmed, he said. Its a salad of confusion and lies  I was just looking through photos from last year, when (Aleksandra) was pregnant with the little one. And I cant believe he would have done that, my son.
Jessica Alves commanded attention as she arrived at Novikov Mayfair, London on Sunday with her pals.

The Brazilian-British model, 39, put on a busty display in a plunging pink figure-hugging midi dress which cost 3000 from Valentino.

She boosted her height in shimmering silver heels and accessorised with a 2500 matching handbag by Dior.

Jessica's blonde locks were styled in a glamorous blowdry, while sporting a bronzed makeup palette and she wore 800 glitzy Christian Louboutin heels and Cartier diamonds.

It comes after Jessica, who has said to have spent 1million in over 100 operations, headed to her usual aesthetic practitioner for a top up of her filler.

Outing: Jessica Alves commanded attention as she arrived at Novikov Mayfair, London on Sunday with her pals

Wow! The Brazilian-British model, 39, put on a busty display in a plunging pink figure-hugging midi dress which cost 3000 by Valentino, a 2500 Dior bag and 800 Louboutin heels

Sharing the procedure over on her Instagram she explained she was having hyaluronic acid injections on her nose and bottom lip.

Checking in after the treatment the star said she was 'so happy with how perfect everything looks' as she thanked Ozeias.

The TV screen queen has 2220cc implants and has said spending money on her enhancements is all worth it as it's an 'investment in my happiness'.

On Monday, the star treated her 7.3million followers to some glamourous snaps on Instagram as she s howcased her ample assets in a shimmery beige boob tube.

Her long blonde locks flowed all the way down to the bed as she paired to top with a shiny gold short skirt.

The star captioned the post: 'Deep in every heart slumbers a dream, and the couturier knows it: every woman is a princess.'

It comes after the star suffered an extreme reaction to a bee sting back in June which caused a giant hole to appear in her surgically enhanced bottom.

The TV star told MailOnline: 'I was sunbathing at Ocean Club in Ibiza when I was bitten twice on one cheek two weeks ago.

'A big inflamed lump formed and so I went to hospital to have it drained with a needle before being put on antibiotics.

'I had to fly to Las Vegas for a PA at the Palms hotel where I also had my birthday celebrations with close friends who were able to fly out to join me.

'After few days, the lump came back and it exploded, creating a big hole in my bottom and exposing my implants.

She added: 'I spent two days in the hospital in Las Vegas where I had intravenous antibiotics. The doctors there wanted to remove my bum implant because it got infected after I was stung.'

Stylish: She boosted her height in shimmering silver heels and accessorised with a matching handbag

Looking good: Jessica shared this snap of herself while getting ready to go out

Bottom's up! Jessica partied the night away with her close friend Cherryl Robertson

Eye-popping: Jessica showcased her ample assets in a shimmery boob tube as she pouted for Instagram snaps on Monday

She added: 'I feel really upset because my 40th birthday is coming up and I wanted to make this month a special one to me.

'But again my bum got in the way. Six months ago I had to spend Xmas and new year in hospital and now I have more health concerns but I know I must be strong and I hope this surgery is a success.'

Jessica's bottom implants will have to be removed immediately, causing Jessica anguish and feeling fearful because she will be forced to have yet more surgery.

The TV screen queen has 2220cc implants and has said spending 1million in over 100 operations is all worth it as it's an 'investment in my happiness'.
Famed game show Deal or No Deal looks set to make a comeback.

Originally screening on Channel Seven, the ratings hit was axed in 2014, after running for a decade.

And now TV insiders report that Channel 10 are eyeing off a reboot.

But the move could jeopardise 10's ratings-starved The Project, which occupies the ideal early evening time slot for a re-vamped Deal or No Deal reports TV Blackbox.

Debuting in 2003, Deal or No Deal was hosted by Andrew O'Keefe.

Famed game show Deal or No Deal looks set to make a comeback, with TV Blackbox reporting that Channel 10 is eyeing off a re-boot Pictured: Original Deal or No Deal host Andrew O'Keefe

However, the fallen 51-year-old presenter is unlikely to make a come back on the show after his recent court appearances over domestic violence and a very public battle with drug addiction.

There is speculation that Deal or No Deal producers Endemol Shine are pitching a re-boot for Channel 10's 6-7pm time slot, Monday-Friday.

If this goes ahead, it would slash into The Project's current 6.30pm-7.30pm air-time.

Deal or No Deal became a popular fixture on Australian television for more than a decade, with O'Keefe rising to celebrity status, including hosting Seven's Weekend Sunrise.

A Deal or No Deal re-boot could have a serious impact on 10's The Project Pictured: Presenter of The Project Walled Aly

The ratings starved The Project, occupies the ideal early evening time slot for a DOND revamp

At its peak in 2007-2008, the guessing game regularly pulled in 900,000 viewers.

It comes after The Project has shed one-third of its viewers from its national audience over the last 18 months.

At one time Channel 10's flagship current affairs show, ratings have been steadily fallen over 2022-2023.

The audience decline coincides with growing criticism of The Project's left-wing bias and the recent departures of several high-profile hosts, including Carrie Bickmore, Peter Helliar and Lisa Wilkinson.

Deal or No Deal became a popular fixture on Australian television for more than a decade, with O'Keefe rising to celebrity status, including hosting Seven's Weekend Sunrise

This year, the show relaunched with a new panel comprising Sarah Harris, Sam Taunton, Michael Hing and long-serving anchor Waleed Aly.

Last year, OzTAM ratings revealed the program had lost almost a third of its audience since 2011.

The struggling show saw its metro ratings plummet to an all-time low of just 367,000 last year.

That's a 30 per cent decline from its five-city audience of 538,000 a decade earlier.
There has been rather a lot of drama in Holly Willoughbys life in the past few months. Thankfully, the most recent scenes were entirely fictional.

The ITV presenter celebrated her acting debut on Sunday  a performance in her favourite show, Midsomer Murders.

She starred as herself alongside Neil Dudgeon as DCI John Barnaby in the psychic-themed episode of the ITV crime drama.

However, with only a few lines given to the This Morning presenter and very little of her involvement in the murder storyline, some fans were confused as to why she was there.

One wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter: What exactly was the point of Holly Willoughby in Midsomer Murders?

Her cameo was instead focused on a topic close to her heart  the healing power of crystals.

Special moment: Holly Willoughby celebrated her acting debut on Sunday  a performance in her favourite show, Midsomer Murders

Limited screen time: With only a few lines given to the This Morning presenter and very little of her involvement in the murder storyline, some fans were confused as to why she was there

Willoughby has a number of articles about crystals on her wellness website, Wylde Moon, and uses them to purify her home and clean the energy.

In the episode, she is seen sitting on a throne at a psychic fayre, the backdrop to the episodes murder spree.

Is that the queen of daytime?, asks DS Jamie Winter, played by Nick Hendrix.

DCI Barnaby responds: Are you sure? Gloria Hunniford?

Willoughby then appears to win the affections of DS Winter, with whom she has a flirtatious exchange before offering him a crystal to help him recover from the death of his grandfather.

Oh hello, Im glad I bumped into you, Ive got something for you, she says. It helps with grief, it brings emotional trauma to the surface to be healed and released.

Remarking on the queen of daytime comment, one viewer wrote online: How much did Holly Willoughby pay the Midsomer Murders writers to get that line?

The episode, which includes Tracy-Ann Oberman as Sally Ann Barker, also sees Willoughby help to rewild a number of beavers, which she calls natures feng shui experts.

Getting involved: She starred as herself alongside Neil Dudgeon as DCI John Barnaby in the psychic-themed episode of the ITV crime drama

The jury's out: Fans were divided, with many savaging the scene's 'forced and unrealistic' dialogue as well as Willoughby's presence on the show

The presenter shot the scenes two years ago, long before co-host Phillip Schofield dramatically left This Morning following the sensational revelation that he had been having an affair with a much younger colleague.

Willoughby, who was offered the role by Dudgeon live on air on This Morning, is on holiday in Portugal but alerted fans to her cameo on Instagram, writing: This truly was a dream come true I loved every second.

Appearing on Wednesday's edition of Good Morning Britain, Dudgeon explained the decision to cast Willoughby despite the presenter having no apparent acting experience.

He said: 'Well, she's sort of a friend of the show I suppose - she's a great fan of the show and we're always looking to broaden our casting net.

'She was great, she was thoroughly professional. I think she was a bit nervous when she first arrived. She's playing a character called Holly Willoughby, I wouldn't like to say that it's herself.'
Kylie Jenner was spotted out getting her hair done in Los Angeles on Monday.

The Reality TV star and Kylie Cosmetics founder, 26, was seen departing Salon No. 9 in the nearby city of Beverly Hills.

For the outing, she donned a casual yet chic outfit that consisted of a white cropped T-shirt, a pair of light blue jorts and a set of black Oxford loafer shoes.

Jenner  who is rumored to be dating Timothee Chalamet  completed her ensemble with a large black jacket that she carried in one of her hands, a silver watch on one of her wrists and a large black leather designer handbag.

She also had a black protective mask over her mouth.

Kylie Jenner Sighting: Kylie Jenner was was spotted out getting her hair done in Los Angeles, California on Monday

A little off the top: The Reality TV star and Kylie Cosmetics founder was seen departing Salon No. 9 in Beverly Hills

At Salon No. 9, Kylie had her long black hair styled with several layers, a hair do that allowed her to maintain her signature low-key allure and style. The look complimented her casual yet chic outfit.

A male bodyguard was photographed subsequently accompanying Jenner as she exited the building and made her way back to her vehicle.

He was seen opening the car door for Jenner as she proceeded to enter the vehicle, sitting in the driver's seat.

Once Jenner was in the vehicle, he closed the door and sat in the passenger seat. The 26-year-old then drove the car out of the parking lot.

The sighting of Jenner comes a few days after she returned home to Los Angeles after spend some time in Italy on vacation with her family.

Jenner and her older half-sister Khloe Kardashian and Khloe's daughter True, were photographed landing in Perugia, Italy, via private jet on August 15, four days after Kylie rang in her 26th birthday in Los Angeles.

Throughout the Italian getaway, Jenner shared several photo dumps on her Instagram account with her nearly 400 million followers.

An August 19 post on Instagram consisted of several selfies where the 26-year-old mother of two showed off her natural freckles and wavy hair in sun-soaked selfies.

Kylie shared a series of photos the following day of herself, Khloe, and their mother Kris Jenner having a blast while making some fresh pasta during a private cooking class.

Also featured on the 26-year-old's Instagram account where two posts consisting of several pictures of herself enjoying her Italian get-a-way with some of her close friends.

Casual Street Style: While out at Salon No. 9, Jenner donned a casual yet chic outfit that consisted of a white cropped t-shirt, a pair of light blue jorts, and a pair of black oxford loafer shoes

Style: Kylie had her long black hair styled with several layers, a hair do that allowed her to maintain her signature low-key allure and style

Body Guard: While at the salon, a male bodyguard was photographed accompanying Jenner as she exited the building and made her way back to her vehicle

Natural Beauty in Italy: The sighting of Jenner comes a few days after she returned home to Los Angeles after spend some time in Italy on vacation with her family

Kylie's daughter Stormi, five, and her son Aire, one, did not accompany their mom on the trip with their aunt and cousin and their mom's friends.

The social media star shares both of her children with former boyfriend, the rapper Travis Scott.

On August 21, the rapper shared a sweet snap on his Instagram account of himself and Stormi baking something in the kitchen, all while making a mess.

The former couple were together in an on-again, off-again relationship from 2017 to late 2022.
More than 1,400 iconic film props and objects from Hollywood franchises including Star Wars, Marvel, Star Trek and Alien are set to go to auction next month.

The items are going on the block as part of the Julien's Auctions and TCM Present: Legends: Hollywood and Royalty event. The event takes place live on September 6, 7 and 8, both in person in Beverly Hills and online.

Among the treasures is a production made slave costume worn by Princess Leia (portrayed by late actress Carrie Fisher) in Star Wars' Return of the Jedi. Also up for grabs for Star Wars fans is Han Solo's (played by Harrison Ford) DL-44 heavy blaster gun.

Meanwhile Iron Man fans have a chance to possess the original Mark XLII helmet from Iron Man III, that was used by Robert Downey Jr. in his role as Tony Stark, a.k.a. Iron Man.

There's also something for horror fanatics, who can own 'a terrifying one-of-a-kind production made and used Xenomorph head' from the Alien franchise.

Iconic: More than 1,400 iconic film props and objects from Hollywood franchises are set to go to auction next month, including the slave costume worn by Princess Leia (portrayed by late actress Carrie Fisher, seen right) in Star Wars' Return of the Jedi

Space blaster: Also up for grabs for Star Wars fans is Han Solo's (played by Harrison Ford) DL-44 heavy blaster gun

Legend: Harrison Ford pictured in a promotional shot from Star Wars - The Force Awakens - 2015

Powerful: Solo's blaster was considered one of the most powerful pistols in the Star Wars galaxy

Iron Man: Meanwhile Iron Man fans have a chance to possess the original Mark XLII helmet from Iron Man III, that was used by Robert Downey Jr. in his role as Tony Stark, a.k.a. Iron Man

Collector's item: The helmet is composed of a fiberglass material and a removable faceplate with the markings 'RDJ' and 'MK/42' inside; Downey Jr. pictured in iron Man 3

Also from the Star Wars universe, original trilogy C-3PO and R2-D2 display statues were seen at the preview.

R2-D2 is known as the resourceful droid, who served Anakin Skywalker and Luke Skywalker. While C-3PO is a gold-plated humanoid protocol droid and a main character in the Star Wars universe.

As for Alien, there was 'a full-scale display figure of the "Alien Queen" with eggs from James Cameron's sequel film made from the production molds and includes expertly painted fiberglass and polyfoam components' displayed as well.

Predators' 2010 Brian Steele 'Mr Black / Berserker' creature costume was also on display.

There were many items for Star Trek fans as well. William Shatner's vibrant red Starfleet Commander Jacket, in which he portrayed Admiral James T. Kirk in the Star Trek franchise, is up for grabs.

Other pieces from the Star Treck universe include the Copernicus shuttle, as well as a 24k gold plated USS Enterprise NCC-1701 model.

Another thrill for superhero fans will be Chris Evans' USO shield prop from Captain America - The First Avenger movie.

Many costumes worn by the screens most legendary leading ladies, including Audrey Hepburn, Elizabeth Taylor, Judy Garland, Greta Garbo and more will also be available.

Audrey's 'flamingo pink embellished silk-organza dress' worn in the classic 1961 film Breakfast at Tiffanys, where she played Holly Golightly, is among the pieces.

The dress was designed by Hepburn's friend Hubert de Givenchy and features 'hand-sewn guipure fanned lace applique with faceted silver sequins and iridescent beads.'

Cute: Original trilogy C-3PO and R2-D2 display statues were seen at the preview

Helper: R2-D2 is known as the resourceful droid, who served Anakin Skywalker and Luke Skywalker

Golden boy: Meanwhile C-3PO is a gold-plated humanoid protocol droid and a main character in the Star Wars universe

Scary: There's also something for horror fanatics, who can own 'a terrifying one-of-a-kind production made and used Xenomorph head' from the Alien franchise

Alien: The head was 'fabricated by famed Shepperton Design Studios from an original design by Academy Award-winning artist H.R. Giger'; Still from 1979's Alien

Egg: Also from Alien is 'a full-scale display figure of the "Alien Queen" with eggs from James Cameron's sequel film made from the production molds and includes expertly painted fiberglass and polyfoam components'

Mr Black: Predators' 2010 Brian Steele 'Mr Black / Berserker' creature costume was also on display

The egg and the statue made for a ghastly sight

Breakfast at Tiffany's: Audrey Hepburn's 'flamingo pink embellished silk-organza dress' worn in the classic 1961 film classic Breakfast at Tiffanys, is available at the auction

Incredible: The dress was designed by Hepburn's friend Hubert de Givenchy and features 'hand-sewn guipure fanned lace applique with faceted silver sequins and iridescent beads'

Iconic: Audrey played Holly Golightly in the iconic film

Star Trek: William Shatner's vibrant red Starfleet Commander Jacket, in which he portrayed Admiral James T. Kirk in the Star Trek franchise, is also up for grabs

Cool: The jacket features a black belt with a gold buckle

Throwback: Shatner pictured in the official uniform; Seen in a still from Star Trek IV - The Voyage Home - 1986

Shuttle: Another item from the Star Treck universe is the Copernicus shuttle

Fancy: From Star Trek - First Contact, a 24k gold plated USS Enterprise NCC-1701 Model was pictured on display

Captain America: Chris Evans' USO shield prop from Captain America - The First Avenger was placed next to Iron Man's helmet

Plenty of goodies: A number of props pictured on display

The Elder Wand: There are also a number of iconic memorabilia from Harry Potter, including Albus Dumbledore's Elder Wand, as seen in Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince

Voldemort's wand: Other wands from J.K. Rowling's franchise include Harry Potter, Ron Weasley, and Hermione Grangers wands, as well as Ralph Fiennes 'Lord Voldemort' wand

Creepy: A terrifying Jonathan Breck Creeper costume from Jeepers Creepers seen on display

Yikes! The scary statue terrified onlookers

Robocop: From 'Robocop 2', the stunt costume worn by Peter Weller 'Officer Alex Murphy'

Another one of Hepburn's treasures is a straw hat she wore in her role as the bookkeeper turned model Jo Stockton in Funny Face.

There are also a number of iconic memorabilia from Harry Potter, including Albus Dumbledore's Elder Wand, as seen in Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince.

The wand prop was used by Irish-born British actor Michael Gambon in the film.

Other spell-casting wands from J.K. Rowling's franchise include Harry Potter, Ron Weasley, and Hermione Grangers wands from Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 1, as well as Ralph Fiennes 'Lord Voldemort' wand from Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire, among others.

Marlon Brando's passport also made it to the auction, with the Hollywood legend pictured smiling in a black and white passport photo.

From 'Robocop 2', the stunt costume worn by Peter Weller 'Officer Alex Murphy' is up for sale.

A terrifying Jonathan Breck Creeper costume from Jeepers Creepers was also seen on display.

A stylish gold vintage lighter that belonged to Humphrey Bogart is also up for grabs. Bogart's sailing stopwatch is part of the collection as well.

A Sopranos script will hit the auction block, with a preview photo showing the front cover of the pilot episode, with a number of autographs from the stars.

Brando's passport: Marlon Brando's passport made it to the auction, with the Hollywood legend pictured smiling in a black and white passport photo

Vintage: Steve McQueen's 'The War Lover' aviation jacket is also listed for sale

Humphrey Bogart's lighter: A stylish gold vintage lighter that belonged to Humphrey Bogart is up for grabs

Humphrey's watch: Bogart's sailing stopwatch is also part of the collection

Sopranos: A Sopranos script will hit the auction block, with a preview photo showing the front cover of the pilot episode, with a number of autographs from the stars

Guardians of the Galaxy props: Yondu Udonta arrow prop from Guardians of the Galaxy was among the items displayed

Harry and Megan's wedding: Memorabilia from Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's 2018 wedding is also available, with items including a tote bag, and a monogrammed water bottle

Coming soon: Items will go up for auction from September 68, both in person in Beverly Hills and online at Julien's Auctions

Another interesting item for sale is Yondu Udonta's arrow prop from Guardians of the Galaxy.

Steve McQueen's 'The War Lover' aviation jacket is also available for purchase.

Memorabilia from Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's 2018 wedding were also displayed at the preview, with items including a tote bag, and a monogrammed water bottle.

Items will go up for auction from September 68, both in person in Beverly Hills and online at Julien's Auctions.
Jamie Foxx appeared in good spirits as he flashed a cheerful smile and enjoyed a Starbucks run in LA on Monday while recovering from a mysterious health scare.

The Django Unchained actor, 55, who is 'pushing ahead with nine films in production' following a three-month hospitalization, dressed down for the quick outing.

The Oscar winner donned a short-sleeved white T-shirt along with a pair of black track pants to stay cool in the sweltering California heat.

He additionally slipped into a pair of white sneakers that were secured with laces to stay comfortable during the coffee run.

Foxx threw on a pair of stylish, black shades to protect his eyes from the bright sunshine as he made his way across a street.

Coffee run: Jamie Foxx, 55, appeared in good spirits as he flashed a cheerful smile and enjoyed a Starbucks run in LA on Monday while recovering from a mysterious health scare

The Dayshift star was seen holding an iced coffee in his hand as well as a tasty snack as he headed to his next destination.

Jamie has been keeping busy after his shock mysterious illness that sent him to the hospital for a three-month stay beginning in April.

Insiders close to the Ray actor said he is back working harder than ever, despite the fact he's still recovering from an undisclosed medical condition.

'Jamie is staying focused on his film career as he continues on his road to recovery,' an insider told DailyMail.com.

And as part of that renewed focus, Foxx currently has a staggering nine films in various stages of production. The insider adds that Foxx sees staying busy with work as the key to his ongoing recovery.

'He is still doing some outpatient rehab and working on his health, but he feels the busier he is the better  he doesnt want to spend too long resting,' they said.

Still, he's making time to focus on continued exercise to strengthen his body moving forward.

'As well as playing pickleball with his friends, Jamie has been doing regular exercises at home and everyday has been an improvement,' they continued. 'He's really excited to be continuing filming on his various projects.'

Staying cool: The Oscar winner donned a short-sleeved white T-shirt along with a pair of black track pants to stay cool in the sweltering California heat

Working hard: Jamie has been keeping busy after his shock mysterious illness that sent him to the hospital for a three-month stay beginning in April

Earlier this month, Jamie took to his Instagram page to give an update to his fans and followers and admitted he was 'finally starting to feel like' himself again.

He uploaded a series of photos of himself posing next to a wooden doorway and typed out a detailed caption where he also expressed gratitude during his recovery.

'Youre lookin at a man who is thankful finally startin to feel like myself its been an unexpected dark journey but I can see the light'

Foxx added, 'Im thankful to everyone that reached out and sent well wishes and prayers I have a lot of people to thank u just dont know how much it meant'

In conclusion, he wrote, 'I will be thanking all of you personally and if you didnt know GOD IS GOOD all day every day'

A month earlier in July, the award-winning actor shared his first health update after facing 'something I never thought I would go through.' He informed his fans that he was not 'blind' or 'paralyzed' during the lengthy Instagram video.

'I know a lot of people [were] waiting or wanting to hear an update, but to be honest with you, I didn't want you to see me like that man,' he expressed. 'I want you to see me laughing, having a good time, partying, cracking a joke, doing a movie, [or] a television show.'

Also last month, Jamie was seen back on set to film a commercial in Las Vegas as he returned to work.

Staying focused: 'Jamie is staying focused on his film career as he continues on his road to recovery,' an insider told DailyMail.com; seen in February in London

Positive update: Earlier this month, Jamie took to his Instagram page to give an update to his fans and followers and admitted he was 'finally starting to feel like' himself again

He revealed that he went through 'hell and back' to get better, and gave a special shout out to his family and loved ones.

'To them, to God, to a lot of great medical people, I'm able to leave you this video,' he emotionally stated, and later sent love to his fans as well.

In the caption, the star penned, 'Thank u a billion to everybody been a long road but all the prayers great people and God got me through.'

Also in August, Jamie was embroiled in an anti-Semitic scandal following a post he shared. 'They killed this dude name Jesus...what do you think they'll do to you???! #fakefriends #fakelove,' he had written.

The message sparked backlash on social media and Foxx was quickly accused of anti-Semitism. Jennifer Aniston initially liked the post, but later spoke out against it.

At the time, the Friends alum wrote, 'This really makes me sick. I did not "like" this post on purpose or by accident.'

'And more importantly, I want to be clear to my friends and anyone hurt by this showing up on their feeds - I do NOT support any form of anitsemitism. And I truly don't tolerate HATE of any kind. Period.'

Foxx soon issued a statement of apology on Instagram following the comment and expressed, 'I want to apologize to the Jewish community and to everyone who was offended by my post.'

'I now know my words of choice have caused offense and I'm sorry. That was never my intent. To clarify, I was betrayed by a fake friend and that's what I meant with "they" not anything more.'

'I only have love in my heart for everyone. I love and support the Jewish community. My deepest apologies to anyone who was offended. Nothing but love always, Jamie Foxx,' he added.

Health: He revealed that he went through 'hell and back' to get better, and gave a special shout out to his family and loved ones

Controversy: At the time, the Friends alum wrote, 'This really makes me sick. I did not "like" this post on purpose or by accident'

Apology: Foxx soon issued a statement of apology on Instagram following the comment and expressed, 'I want to apologize to the Jewish community and to everyone who was offended by my post'

Defending: Winnie Harlow was one celebrity who penned in the comments, 'I'm so confused .. it's so clear what you were saying'

While some social media users expressed gratitude for the clarification, others defended the actor over the controversial post. Winnie Harlow was one celebrity who penned in the comments, 'I'm so confused .. it's so clear what you were saying.'

The star appears to have put the past behind him, and is looking to the future with a boatload of projects under his belt, such as The Burial.

It was also recently announced that he will be starring as God in the comedy Not Another Church Movie, which was shot prior to the ongoing WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes, opposite Mickey Rourke as The Devil.

'He's been eager to get back to work and has a long list of projects in the pipeline that he intends to finish. He doesnt want to let his fans down,' a source told DailyMail.com.
Jimmy Nicholson has revealed his dad Noel got him his first gig as a pilot at REX Airlines.

The Bachelor star, 33, who is currently in Barcelona for the last leg of his four-week honeymoon, recently told Daily Mail Australia he owes his career to his father.

He said Noel didn't have the best relationship with his own dad, and attempted to rectify it by encouraging his son Jimmy to follow his dreams of being a pilot.

'Dad was very keen for me to chase my dreams and he knew I was hooked on flying. We always had planes around the house. I used to go on his trips,' Jimmy said.

Noel spent decades working as an aircraft engineer and cabin crew where he would take Jimmy and his daughter Tahnee on flights as they were growing up.

Jimmy Nicholson, 33, (right) revealed his dad Noel (left) is the reason he became a pilot after his old man got him his first gig at REX Airlines

'He was a big part in getting me where I am today,' Jimmy added.

'In fact, he even called my first airline REX and said, "Look my son is desperate to get in. I know you have his CV. Can you please consider him." And turns out they considered me and I got in.'

Jimmy has always had a close relationship with his dad Noel and decided to go all out for Father's Day this year by taking him on a helicopter flight over Sydney.

The Bachelor star who is currently in Barcelona for the last leg of his four-week honeymoon, recently told Daily Mail Australia he owes his career to his father

Since he and wife Holly will be spending the special day over in Italy and Spain for their honeymoon, Jimmy decided to do something memorable ahead of time.

The father-son duo spent an incredible day taking in the city sights as Jimmy treated Noel to a RedBalloon experience.

'I thought the best option for him would be an experience. A flight experience is so far up our alley it's not funny,' Jimmy said.

He said Noel didn't have the best relationship with his own dad, and attempted to rectify it by encouraging his son Jimmy to follow his dreams of being a pilot

It comes as the father-son duo spent an incredible day taking in the city sights as Jimmy treated Noel to a RedBalloon helicopter flight over Sydney

'I thought the best option for him would be an experience. A flight experience is so far up our alley it's not funny,' Jimmy said

'And he's never been on a chopper before. So I surprised him with a chopper visit. He actually thought we were going to the airport to go plane spotting.'

It comes as Jimmy and Holly have just landed safely in Barcelona after spending three weeks in Italy for their luxury honeymoon.

Posting a reel of images to her Instagram, Holly wrote, 'Barcelona, you are something else!' alongside an image of the lovebirds cuddling up to each other.

They began their first day in style as they followed their stomachs through the cosmopolitan capital with Holly pouring her figure into a white couture minidress.
Travis Barker paid a special tribute to his late friend DJ AM on the 14th anniversary of his tragic passing by sharing slew of photos on his Instagram stories on Monday.

The Blink-182 drummer, 47, who was recently seen on a romantic stroll with pregnant Kourtney Kardashian, notably collaborated with DJ AM and the pair later formed their own group called TRV$DJAM.

Barker took to his stories to pay tribute to the late star, whose real name was Adam Michael Goldstein. On August 28, 2009, he was found dead in his NYC apartment due to an accidental drug overdose at the age of 36.

He shared three black and white, throwback images of DJ AM, but chose to not add any text or caption on the photos.

The two were bonded by a tragic event when they were the sole survivors of a deadly plane crash.

Tribute: Travis Barker, 47, paid a special tribute to his late friend and music artist, DJ AM, on the 14th anniversary of his tragic passing by sharing slew of photos on his Instagram stories on Monday; pair seen at MTV Video Music Awards in 2008 in L.A.

Anniversary: Barker took to his stories to pay tribute to the late star who was found dead in his NYC apartment due to an accidental drug overdose on August 28, 2009; seen in 2005

Prior to that, they had the chance to perform live at numerous events together, such as the 2008 MTV Video Music Awards.

DJ AM had previously joined a group called, Crazy Town, in 1999 but two years later, he left to better focus on his own solo career.

In 2003, he had begun to find more success and also started dating Lionel Richie's daughter, Nicole Richie.

In 2005, Blink-182 went on a hiatus, and drummer Barker eventually formed the group TRV$DJAM with Adam - who had battled drug addiction throughout his life.

They began performances at The Roxy Theater in Los Angeles in June 2008, and two months later, dropped their first mixtape online called, Fix Your Face, on August 27, 2008.

On September 19, 2008, the duo performed at a college event called the T-Mobile Block Party in Columbia, South Carolina.

Afterwards, they joined assistant Chris Baker as well as security guard, Charles Still, and two pilots to fly out of South Carolina to Los Angeles on a Learjet 60. However, shortly after takeoff, the plane experienced an emergency and crashed.

The accident was later reported to be caused by 'faulty tires,' per Billboard. The tragic incident killed both Baker and Still, as well as the two pilots, but Travis and DJ AM managed to escape the crash.

Due to the plane being on fire, both suffered third-degree burns and were taken to Joseph M. Still Burn Center located in Georgia for recovery. During a past interview with People, per Today, DJ AM had recalled the horrific accident.

Group: The Blink-182 drummer notably collaborated with DJ AM and the later pair formed their own group called TRV$DJAM; DJ AM (right) seen in March 2009 in Los Angeles

Success: They began performances at The Roxy Theater in Los Angeles in June 2008, and two months later, dropped their first mixtape online called, Fix Your Face, on August 27, 2008; seen in September 2008

'When the plane was on the runway I took my shoes off and fell asleep. The next thing I remember is us crashing into something,' he stated.

'I woke up to Travis screaming and the plane engulfed in flames. I remember thinking it was like "Miami Vice," where a car is on fire and you run before the gas tank explodes  we gotta get out of here!'

Adam continued, 'Travis jerked upon the door and slid on his butt down a wing that was on fire. I tried to cover my face as I jumped through a fireball. As soon as I hit the ground, I remembered "Stop, drop and roll," so I started rolling.'

Upon extinguishing the fire on his own body, he immediately jumped to Barker's side to also help put out his flames.

'My eyebrows and layers of skin were burned off my face. My forehead was gouged and my arm had skin hanging off. I was in shock and didn't feel anything.'

During a past interview with Larry King, Travis had also recalled the terrifying moment, and stated, 'The landing gear popped, it sounded like gunshots.'

'It sounded like someone was shooting a gun next to my head. Then the plane just spiraled out of control. The plane would basically go up in the air, then crash down and hit the ground, then come up.'

The musician added, 'Every time we hit the ground the flames and smoke would get bigger and before the last impact the plane was completely on fire. We were a ball of fire in the sky, and I was honestly waiting for lights out.'

Before tragedy: On September 19, 2008, the duo performed at a college event called the T-Mobile Block Party in Columbia, South Carolina

Only survivors: Both Travis and DJ AM were the only survivors of a Learjet 60 plane crush on September 19, 2008 that killed two pilots as well as assistant Chris Baker and security guard, Charles Still

Following the accident, both Travis and DJ AM chose to not step onto a plane. However, in 2021, the drummer took a flight to Italy as he overcame his fear with Kourtney Kardashian.

The flight was just his second since the crash, with his first having been a trip to Cabo. Travis had uploaded an image of the ground at night that was taken from the plane, followed by a photo of DJ AM.

During a past interview with Men's Health, Barker stated that when DJ AM was alive, they had been, 'each other's therapists' following the crash, adding, 'it was just him and me.'

He added, 'When he left, I was like, "Oh, f**k. I'm the only one in my club. It's just me." And I find my ways to deal with it.'

After the duo recovered, they each went on to focus on their careers and they both performed at New Year's Nation L.A. 2008 New Year's Eve bash together.

Adam also became a DJ at the Palms Casino Resort in Las Vegas after leaving a position at Caesar's Palace. He briefly jumped into the film industry and made a cameo appearance as himself in Iron Man 2 as a DJ at Tony Stark's party - played by Robert Downey Jr.

He later became the host of the drug intervention reality show titled, Gone Too Far. The series aired shortly after his death.

The star battled drug addiction for years since he was a teenager, and sought sobriety and help after attempting suicide at the age of 24.

'Therapists': During a past interview with Men's Health, Barker stated then when DJ AM was alive, they had been, 'each other's therapists' following the crash, adding, 'it was just him and me'; seen in 2005

Addiction: The star battled drug addiction for years since he was a teenager, and sought sobriety and help after attempting suicide at the age of 24; Travis and DJ AM with Too Short in January 2009

In an essay published in Glamour in January 2008, DJ AM got candid about his addiction to drugs as well as struggles with weight and food.

'I was 14 years old and became known as "the fat kid from Philly." I spent the next two years doing drugs every day, until I went to my mom and actually asked her to send me to rehab,' he explained.

However, he added, 'Unbeknownst to my mother, the place was an abusive house of horrors that would eventually be shut down.' He was 18-years-old when he finally left.

'When I left rehab, I'd learned nothing about recoveryI attended a few meetings, but within five months I was back doing drugs,' and later added, 'I started going to meetings again and distanced myself from friends who were still using drugs. The hardest thing to adjust to was deejaying sober.'

He revealed that he worked at celebrity birthday parties for stars such as Tom Cruise and Leonardo DiCaprio.

'As the years passed, I grew stronger in recovery, but my food issues spiraled out of control. By the time I was 30, I weighed 324 pounds and hated my body more than anything,' and chose to get 'gastric bypass surgery.'

At the time he had penned the essay, Adam wrote, 'I'm 34 now, and it's been nine and a half years since I've had a drink or taken drugs. But every day I have to remind myself that no matter how much time I have behind me, I'm still a drug addict.'

'At any given moment, I'm five seconds away from walking up to someone, grabbing their drink out of their hand and downing it. And if I do that, within a week, tops, I'll be smoking crack.'

While filming MTV's Gone Too Far, he told the network in an interview in July 2008 that he had experienced 'a flashback' while shooting the project.

Tragic loss: He was found dead in his Manhattan apartment on August 28, 2009, and at the time, he was reportedly surrounded by drugs paraphernalia; the two seen in 2008

In New York, he had gone into a convenience store and bought a crack pipe in order to show that it could easily be done.

'My palms were sweaty. I was like, "Wait a minute, this is not smart for me to be holding this." I started really kind of freaking out and having to kind of vent. And it kind of put that image back in my head,' he stated, per ABC News.

He was found dead in his Manhattan apartment on August 28, 2009, and at the time, he was reportedly surrounded by drugs paraphernalia, including a crack pipe and prescription pill bottles. However, his death was later ruled an accident.

On September 2, 2009, his body was buried at the Hillside Memorial Park Cemetery located in L.A. The following day, a memorial service was held, with numerous guests in attendance, including Travis Barker, Robert Downey Jr., Lindsay Lohan, as well as Adam's family.
Austin Butler and girlfriend Kaia Gerber got their week off to a delicious start by dining at Funke on Monday evening.

The 32-year-old Butler and 21-year-old Gerber were seen holding hands while heading into the Beverly Hills hotspot.

The outing comes just days after they were spotted in Malibu last week visiting Karlie Kloss and Joshua Kushner's newborn baby.

Butler was seen wearing a black retro t-shirt from the Southern California 90s punk band Das Klown, under a black leather jacket.

He held Gerber's hand as they walked into the restaurant, with the Oscar-nominated actor also donning black pants for the dinner outing.

Austin and Kaia: Austin Butler and girlfriend Kaia Gerber got their week off to a delicious start by dining at Funke on Monday evening

Holding hands: The 32-year-old Butler and 21-year-old Gerber were seen holding hands while heading into the Beverly Hills hotspot

The Elvis star completed his look with a pair of black leather boots for the dinner outing in West Hollywood.

His girlfriend Gerber - the daughter of supermodel Cindy Crawford and Rande Gerber - opted for a sleeveless brown vest that showed off her taut midriff.

She accessorized with a pair of silver earrings and held hands with Butler while walking in black pants.

The model completed her look with a pair of black flats.

It was revealed earlier on Monday that Butler's next film, Dune: Part Two, will be pushed from its October release date to March 2024.

There were reports in July that indicated Warner Bros. might push the highly-anticipated sequel into the new year, though it wasn't confirmed until Monday.

While Butler wasn't seen in the first Dune, he stars as Feyd-Rautha Harkonnen in the second part of director Denis Villeneuve's adaptation of Frank Herbert's epic novel.

He will next be seen in the Apple TV Plus mini-series Masters of the Air, based on the true story of the 100th Bombardment Group of the United States Air Force during WWII.

Austin's look: The Elvis star completed his look with a pair of black leather boots for the dinner outing in West Hollywood

Kaia's look: His girlfriend Gerber - the daughter of supermodel Cindy Crawford and Rande Gerber - opted for a sleeveless brown vest that showed off her taut midriff

Kaia's look: She accessorized with a pair of silver earrings and held hands with Butler while walking in black pants

Complete: The model completed her look with a pair of black flats

He'll also be seen in director Jeff Nichols' crime drama The Bikeriders alongside Tom Hardy, Jodie Comer and Michael Shannon, in theaters December 1.

Butler has also signed on to star as Danny Ryan in City on Fire, a movie adaptation of the first book in a crime drama trilogy by author Don Winslow.

Butler and Gerber were first spotted together shortly after Gerber broke things off with her previous boyfriend, Euphoria star Jacob Elordi.

They made their first red carpet appearance at a W Magazine party in Los Angeles last March, just months before attending the Met Gala together.
Kelly, 42, dazzled in a sheer black bralette that she paired with a long black skirt

Cardi B and Kelly Rowland brought the glamour when they attended a recent album release party hosted by Victoria Monet in Los Angeles.

The 30-year-old rapper had her curves on display in a tight sleeveless gray dress that featured multiple cutouts.

Cardi, who recently teased her second album, accessorized with chunky bracelets, dangling earrings and long pink nails.

She was joined on Friday at the album release party sponsored by Tres Generaciones at La Mesa by Kelly Rowland, 42.

The Destiny's Child member dazzled in a sheer black bralette that she paired with a long black skirt.

Album party: Cardi B attended an album release party on Friday in Los Angeles hosted by Victoria Money for her new album Jaguar II

Sheer delight: The Destiny's Child member dazzled in a sheer black bralette that she paired with a long black skirt

Kelly had her dark hair down in soft curls around her shoulders and accessorized with earrings and ring.

She teamed up at the party with Abbott Elementary creator and star Quinta Brunson, 33, who looked lovely in a black jacket dress that featured cutouts along the sleeves.

Quinta had her hair pulled back in braids and accessorized with hoop earrings.

She also carried a black heart-shaped purse that featured sparkling trim and wore black heels with silver trim.

Victoria, 32, released her debut album Jaguar II on Friday via Lovett Music and RCA Records.

She was spotted at the album release party catching up with Grammy-winning rapper Cardi.

Victoria wore a sheer black crop top along with sheer black pants for the release party.

She accentuated her natural beauty with full makeup and had her long blonde hair down below her shoulders.

The album was supported by the singles On My Mama, Party Girls with Buju Banton and Smoke with Lucky Daye, 37.

New Orleans native Lucky also was at the album release party.

Big bracelets: Cardi accessorized with chunky bracelets, dangling earrings and long pink nails

Hair down: Kelly had her dark hair down in soft curls around her shoulders and accessorized with earrings and ring

TV star: Abbott Elementary creator and star Quinta Brunson, 33, teamed up with Kelly

Fun party: Quinta and Kelly looked lovely in black outfits

Lovely purse: The Abbott Elementary star carried a black heart-shaped purse

New album: Victoria Monet hosted the album release party on Friday at La Mesa in Los Angeles that was sponsored by Tres Generaciones

Young stars: Music stars Victoria and Cardi spent time together at the party

Cute smiles: Victoria and Cardi flashed their cute smiles

In attendance: JoJo, 32, also attended the event

Double denim: Ella Mai wore double denim to the album release party

Golden gal: Kittysayword shined in a golden dress

On album: Jaguar II includes the song Smoke with Lucky Daye, 37, who attended the album release party

JoJo, 32, also attended the event along with Ella Mai and Kittysayword.

Victoria's new album includes the track Hollywood that features Earth, Wind & Fire and her two-year-old daughter Hazel.

The album will be supported by the upcoming Jaguar Tour that will begin on September 6 in Detroit.

The Jaguar Tour will feature stops in New York, Atlanta and Los Angeles before Victoria performs her first ever solo shows in London in November.
3M agreed to pay $6 billion to settle a number of lawsuits brought forward by members of the U.S. military who lost hearing or experienced other injuries while using faulty earplugs.

The manufacturing giant received more than 300,000 complaints that their earplugs failed to protect veterans from hearing loss.

3M and Aearo Technologies, a company that 3M acquired in 2008, were sued over the Combat Arms Earplug products, which allegedly had a defective design that caused the plugs to loosen, leaving the military members unprotected against close-range firearms and other loud noises.

The company had already lost 10 cases that had gone to trial, according to Aylstock, Witkin, Kreis, & Overholtz PLLC, one of the law firms representing plaintiffs.

The settlement represents a tremendous victory for the thousands of men and women who bravely served our country and returned home with life-altering hearing injuries, attorneys representing the plaintiffs said in a statement. We are proud to have obtained this settlement, which ensures that those who suffered hearing damage will receive the justice and compensation they so rightly deserve.

The settlement will be paid out over several years as $5 billion in cash and $1 billion in stock.

3M is also awaiting the finalization of a $10.3 billion settlement over public drinking water systems contaminated with toxic PFAS forever chemicals, which have been linked to cancer, developmental defects and other health problems. That agreement was reached in June.

The company said the earplugs agreement is not an admission of liability.

The products at issue in this litigation are safe and effective when used properly. 3M is prepared to continue to defend itself in the litigation if certain agreed terms of the settlement agreement are not fulfilled, the company said in a statement.

The earplugs were used by the military between 2003 and 2015 during training and combat, according to the Wall Street Journal.

With News Wire Services
Montana Brown was one of thousands whose summer holiday plans were thrown into chaos on Monday as she revealed her flight abroad had been cancelled.

The Love Island star, 27, took to Instagram Stories to reveal she and her fiance Mark O'Connor didn't even make it onto the plane before being told of the cancellation.

Montana, who welcomed her son Jude with Mark in July, revealed they were taken to collect their suitcases, throwing their planned getaway into doubt.

Hours after a technical failure grounded all flights in the UK, Montana shared that she and Mark were still making their way to the airport.

Posting a snap of baby Jude in the car, she wrote: 'We're going on a summer holiday supposedly... but flight is seriously delayed because of air traffic control. Do not do this to me universe, also how cute is Jude?'

Oh dear! Montana Brown was one of thousands whose summer holiday plans were thrown into chaos on Monday as she revealed her flight abroad had been cancelled

Chaotic: The Love Island star took to Instagram Stories to reveal she and her fiance Mark O'Connor didn't even make it onto the plane before being told of the cancellation

Four hours later, she posted an update, writing: 'Ok maybe we're not going away as our flight has been delayed until 1am...

'Although I just had a guzzle of breast milk to pass the time as I was thirsty and seeing as I can't have dairy, I'm sure it's actually v good for me so may continue to drink it lol.'

After two more hours passed, Montana revealed: 'OK so flight has been cancelled.

'Also as we were ushered back into arrivals to grab our suitcases I realised I will never be able to go through passport control through the e-gates until I'm near 40... as kids aren't allowed.'

On Tuesday, officials were probing whether a single badly filed travel plan by a French airline was behind the air traffic control meltdown which resulted in thousands of cancelled flights during the worst outage in more than a decade.

Experts have warned that disruption is set to continue into the week despite the seven-hour 'network failure' that left thousands of holidaymakers stranded being 'remedied' on Monday afternoon.

Almost 1,000 flights were grounded and cancelled with several more delayed after Britain's National Air Traffic Services (NATS) said it experienced 'technical issues'. The mayhem happened on one of the busiest days of the year, when more than a million people were due to fly out of or land in the UK.

In an extraordinary twist to the fiasco, sources have told The Times that the fault may have been caused by an incorrectly filed plan by a French airline. MailOnline has contacted NATS for comment.

Ridiculous: Montana, who welcomed her son Jude with Mark in July, revealed they were taken to collect their suitcases, throwing their planned getaway into doubt

Passengers have been warned that they could face 'days of disruptions', which could last until Friday. An easyJet pilot told passengers he had never seen a failure on this scale in 20 years of flying.

It's understood officials are aware of what caused the outage but not how it disabled the system. A cyber attack was also ruled out by NATS.

Cirium reported that more than 500 flights were cancelled by mid-afternoon, with hundreds more also aborted from knock-on effects.

It follows a 'huge failure' of the national air traffic control system which caused chaos on the August Bank Holiday Monday.

Britain's National Air Traffic Services (NATS) said it experienced 'technical issues' that forced controllers to switch from an automatic system for landing and dispatching flights to a manual one.

Nightmare! It follows a 'huge failure' of the national air traffic control system which caused chaos on the August Bank Holiday Monday

'Flight plans are being input manually which means we cannot process them at the same volume, hence we have applied traffic flow restrictions,' NATS said. A spokesman told MailOnline there was 'nothing to suggest a cyber attack'.

NATS said at 3.15pm it had 'identified and remedied' the technical issue affecting air traffic control systems and is working with airlines and airports to support the flights affected.

Transport Secretary Mark Harper said that despite the technical issue being resolved 'flights are still unfortunately affected'.

He tweeted that he would 'encourage all passengers to read the UK Civil Aviation Authority's guidance & be aware of their rights when flights are delayed or cancelled'.
Filming is currently underway for the highly anticipated Australian spin-off NCIS: Sydney, based on the hit American police procedural.

On Tuesday, Australian actors Todd Lasance, 38, and Tuuli Narkle, 27, looked to be in good spirits as they filmed a scene for the show in a North Bondi car park.

Todd, renowned for his work on Home and Away, effortlessly transformed into a police investigator as he filmed an intense crime scene.

He sported a navy NCIS jacket which he paired with a crisp dress shirt and jeans, and exuded a focused aura as he worked his craft.

Todd's presence was captivating as he spoke to other actors while filming an intense crime scene, which saw parts of the street blocked off with police tape.

Filming is currently underway for the highly anticipated Australian spin-off NCIS: Sydney, based on the hit American police procedural. Pictured: Actor Todd Lasance

On Tuesday, the show's actors looked to be in good spirits as they filmed a scene for the show in a North Bondi car park. Pictured: Actress Tuuli Narkle (left) with co-star Sean Sagar (right)

Meanwhile, Mystery Road: Origin star Tuuli Narkle looked engrossed in the moment as she performed in intense scene alongside British actor Sean Sagar.

The pair wore matching NCIS police jackets and crime scene gloves and looked to be having the time of their lives as they performed for the cameras.

They were joined by DC's Legends of Tomorrow star Olivia Swann, 30, who could not wipe the smile off her face as she enjoyed the busy day with her fellow actors.

Todd, renowned for his work on Home and Away, effortlessly transformed into a police investigator as he filmed an intense crime scene

He sported a navy NCIS jacket which he paired with a crisp dress shirt and jeans

Todd's presence was captivating as he as he spoke to other actors while filming an intense crime scene, which saw parts of the street blocked off with police tape

Meanwhile, Mystery Road: Origin star Tuuli Narkle looked engrossed in the moment as she performed an intense scene with Todd and Olivia Swann (left)

The actors looked to be having a fun day bringing their characters to life and immersing themselves in their roles.

NCIS: Sydney is set to launch in late 2023 after a deal was made between Paramount Plus Australia and Network Ten.

The show will feature local stories with Australian actors and producers.

The actors wore matching NCIS police jackets and looked to be having the time of their lives as they performed for the cameras

They were joined by DC's Legends of Tomorrow star Olivia Swann, 30, who could not wipe the smile off her face as she performed with her fellow actors

The actors looked to be having a fun day bringing their characters to life and immersing themselves in the intense scene

Chief Content Officer and Executive Vice President, ViacomCBS Australia and New Zealand, Beverley McGarvey, recently said in a statement to TV Tonight: 'We are thrilled to welcome the inaugural international series of NCIS to Australian shores.'

'It is such a privilege to be able to continue the legacy of such a wonderful show and incorporate the superior NCIS storytelling while introducing new Australian characters and locations.'

'We can't wait to get production underway,' Ms McGarvey said.

The announcement was made after the hit CBS show NCIS was renewed for a 19th season with star Mark Harmon returning as Leroy Jethro Gibbs.

NCIS: Sydney is set to launch in late 2023 after a deal was made between Paramount Plus Australia and Network Ten

The show will feature local stories with Australian actors and producers
Sophie Kasaei went braless in a skintight orange jumpsuit as she shot her first TOWIE scenes with boyfriend Jordan Brook in Kent on Monday.

The Geordie Shore star, 33, commanded attention in the off-the-shoulder one-piece as she put on a loved-up display with her reality star beau, 28.

The couple, who have been together since November 2022, packed on the PDA while filming scenes at Lympne Castle in Hythe, Kent, as Jordan dipped Sophie for a passionate kiss.

Sophie added height to her frame in a pair of pink towering heels and toted her belongings in a 460 Jacquemus handbag.

She pulled her long dark locks back in a curly up-do and accessorised with a choker necklace and gold drop earrings.

Loved-up: Sophie Kasaei went braless in a skintight orange jumpsuit as she shot her first TOWIE scenes with boyfriend Jordan Brook in Kent on Monday

PDA:The Geordie Shore star, 33, commanded attention in the off-the-shoulder one-piece as she put on a loved-up display with her reality star beau, 28

All smiles: The couple, who have been together since November 2022 , packed on the PDA while filming scenes at Lympne Castle in Hythe, Kent

Jordan cut a smart figure in a brown polo shirt, teamed with beige trousers and white trainers.

The pair looked more loved-up than ever as they arrived at the castle walking hand-in-hand.

Jordan looked every inch the dutiful 'Insta boyfriend' as he snapped pictures on his phone of Sophie twerking in front of the camera.

While filming the finale of series 32 of The Only Way Is Essex, the MTV star was spotted jumping into Jordan's arms as they arrived at a party in style.

In January, it was revealed that Sophie was joining TOWIE in the first ever crossover between the two reality shows.

An Essex insider told MailOnline that ITVBe producers are hoping Sophie, who was in the original cast of Geordie Shore and has over two million Instagram followers, will help to resurrect the series, which has lost its popularity in recent years.

A source revealed: 'Sophie has been on reality TV for over 12 years, she knows what makes a good show.

'Producers are really excited that she's joining TOWIE and hopes she will bring some of her fiery Geordie energy to the cast.

Dressed to impress: Sophie added height to her frame in a pair of pink towering heels and toted her belongings in a 460 Jacquemus handbag

Commanding attention: She pulled her long dark locks back in a curly up-do and accessorised with a choker necklace and gold drop earrings

Filming: The pair looked more loved-up than ever as they arrived at the castle hand-in-hand

Twerk it! Jordan looked every inch the dutiful 'Insta boyfriend' as he snapped pictures on his phone of Sophie twerking in front of the camera

'TOWIE is still in talks about Sophie's potential involvement but she can't wait to officially sign on the dotted line and join boyfriend Jordan on the show.

'There's sure to be some drama brewing between Sophie, Ella Rae Wise, and Chloe Brockett, too, who both dated Jordan last year.'

Sophie was an original Geordie Shore cast member when the show first launched in 2011 alongside the likes of Charlotte Crosby, Vicky Pattison, Gary Beadle, and Holly Hagan.

While former Love Island contestants including Olivia Attwood, Georgia Harrison, and Cara De La Hoyde and Nathan Massey have all joined TOWIE in the past, no one from Geordie Shore or Made In Chelsea has appeared on the ITVBe show.

She left the MTV series for good in 2019 and has been in a relationship with TOWIE's Jordan since November 2022.

The ITVBe series is set to air this Sunday September 3, where fans will be treated to all the juicy gossip that unfolded in the away trip to Paphos, Cyprus.

Exciting: In January, it was revealed that Sophie is joining TOWIE in the first ever crossover between the two reality shows

High spirits: While filming series 32 of The Only Way Is Essex, the MTV star was spotted jumping into Jordan's arms as they arrived at a party in style
Christine McGuinness was forced to extend her summer holiday while Montana Brown and Jordan North faced flight cancellations over the weekend.

The celebrities were amongst the thousands of stranded Brits who are stuck after 80 per cent of flights leaving the UK have been delayed, with disruptions continuing into the week.

Britain's National Air Traffic Services (NATS) said it experienced 'technical issues' that forced controllers to switch from an automatic system for landing and dispatching flights to a manual one, on one of the busiest days of the year.

Christine, 35, kept in full spirits and made use of the extra time away as she relaxed on the sun lounger in a tiny pink bikini.

She took to Instagram and showed off her chiselled abs and tiny waist in the strappy two-piece and showed off her natural beauty with a bare face.

Christine McGuinness, 35, was forced to extend her summer holiday as thousands faced flight cancellations over the weekend

Nightmare: Montana Brown, 27, was left stranded in the UK after 80 per cent of flights leaving the UK have been delayed, with disruptions continuing into the week

Updating her fans on the issue, Christine embraced the problem and recalled that everything happens for a reason.

She took to Instagram on Monday and wrote: 'Stranded due to network failures across the UK airports.

'No idea when we can get a flight home but I feel very lucky we found a place to stay.

'I get extra time to make more memories with my babies.'

She later added another post and penned: 'I trust the universe. I had jobs booked all week, a million things to do at home getting ready to prep for 'back to school' but...

'We were meant to stay longer, we have more memories to make, time with my babies is priceless, I actually feel very grateful, we're not home, but we have everything we need'.

Elsewhere, Montana revealed her flight abroad had been cancelled as she was left stranded in the UK.

The Love Island star, 27, took to Instagram Stories to reveal she and her fiance Mark O'Connor didn't even make it onto the plane before being told of the cancellation.

Stuck: Elsewhere, Jordan North, 33, was left stranded at Malaga airport due to the air traffic chaos

Fuming: The Radio host, 33, took to Twitter to share that his flight disaster got from bad to worse since the airport 'ran out of beer'

Montana, who welcomed her son Jude with Mark in July, revealed they were taken to collect their suitcases, throwing their planned getaway into doubt.

Posting a snap of baby Jude in the car, she wrote: 'We're going on a summer holiday supposedly... but flight is seriously delayed because of air traffic control. Do not do this to me universe, also how cute is Jude?'

Four hours later, she posted an update, writing: 'Ok maybe we're not going away as our flight has been delayed until 1am...

'Although I just had a guzzle of breast milk to pass the time as I was thirsty and seeing as I can't have dairy, I'm sure it's actually v good for me so may continue to drink it lol.'

After two more hours passed, Montana revealed: 'OK so flight has been cancelled.

'Also as we were ushered back into arrivals to grab our suitcases I realised I will never be able to go through passport control through the e-gates until I'm near 40... as kids aren't allowed.'

And Maya Jama and Stormzy reportedly got stuck on the tarmac at an airport in Greece after their private jet was grounded amid the air traffic control delays.

Delayed: Maya Jama and Stormzy reportedly got stuck on the tarmac at an airport in Greece after their private jet was grounded amid the air traffic control delays

Relaxing at last! However, after they managed to get another flight back home, Maya took to her Instagram Stories to share a snap of herself enjoying a glass of wine on the jet

The Love Island host, 29, and the rapper, 30, have been holidaying in Greece in recent days and confirmed their rekindled romance by holding hands on the trip.

But their getaway - which came soon after Maya's 29th birthday - came to a chaotic end as their private jet was reportedly grounded amid the air traffic control issues.

A source told The Sun: 'Stormzy and Maya flew to Athens by helicopter then got in his private jet - but ended up being stuck on the tarmac for hours because of the flight chaos.

'Eventually they took off but on another jet and got back late last night.'

However, after they managed to get another flight back home, Maya took to her Instagram Stories to share a snap of herself enjoying a glass of wine on the jet.

Elsewhere, Jordan North was left stranded at Malaga airport due to the air traffic chaos.

The Radio host, 33, took to Twitter to share that his flight disaster got from bad to worse since the airport 'ran out of beer'.

Stranded: Christine kept in full spirits and made use of the extra time away as she relaxed on the sun lounger in a tiny pink bikini

Captioning his post with a picture of the bar, he wrote: 'Delayed at Malaga airpot for possibly 'many hours', and they've ran out of beer at the terminal!'

Davina Taylor shared her thoughts ahead of her flight home as she shared a video to Instagram.

'Who else has been caught up in this site traffic sh*t show?? @DrMilliRaizada re you a in Blighty yet ?????' she questioned.

'Whats happening to people with kids who are in hotels ???? Who pays for the accommodation??? Omg this is a next level nightmare for families. Ffs'

Meanwhile, Ore Oduba and his wife Portia said they were down to the 'last three nappies' for their children after being stranded in Greece.

In an Instagram post on Tuesday, mum-of-two Portia explained the situation, saying that they were due to fly back to London yesterday, but their flight was cancelled.

The Strictly Come Dancing star, 37, and his wife, share Roman, four, and one-year-old Genie.

Danni Menzies revealed she's been left stranded in Spain after her flight home was cancelled due to the chaos.

What's going on? Davina Taylor shared her thoughts ahead of her flight home as she shared a video to Instagram

Thoughts: 'Whats happening to people with kids who are in hotels ???? Who pays for the accommodation??? Omg this is a next level nightmare for families. Ffs,' she questioned

Awful: Meanwhile, Ore Oduba and his wife Portia said they were down to the 'last three nappies' for their children after being stranded in Greece

The Place In The Sun star, 34, took to social media to voice her annoyance at the 'carnage' and 'madness' of the situation on Monday.

She also took to Twitter to vent her frustrations and explain that one of her friends was pregnant and that she was due to attend her best friend's wedding on Friday.

On Tuesday, Danni gave her fans another update, revealing the extreme measures that her and her friends had had to take to try and get home.

Almost 1,000 flights were grounded and cancelled with several more delayed after Britain's National Air Traffic Services (NATS) said it experienced 'technical issues'. The mayhem happened on one of the busiest days of the year, when more than a million people were due to fly out of or land in the UK.

In an extraordinary twist to the fiasco, sources have told The Times that the fault may have been caused by an incorrectly filed plan by a French airline. MailOnline has contacted NATS for comment.

Passengers have been warned that they could face 'days of disruptions', which could last until Friday. An easyJet pilot told passengers he had never seen a failure on this scale in 20 years of flying.

It's understood officials are aware of what caused the outage but not how it disabled the system. A cyber attack was also ruled out by NATS.

Cirium reported that more than 500 flights were cancelled by mid-afternoon, with hundreds more also aborted from knock-on effects.

Oh dear! Danni Menzies revealed she's been left stranded in Spain after her flight home was cancelled due to the chaos

Frustrated: The Place In The Sun star, 34, took to social media to voice her annoyance at the 'carnage' and 'madness' of the situation on Monday

Annoyed: She also took to Twitter to vent her frustrations and explain that one of her friends was pregnant and that she was due to attend her best friend's wedding on Friday

Joking: Trying to make light of the situation, Danni then asked: 'Anyone with a super yacht in Palma fancy giving us a lift across the pond? @British_Airways are paying.'

Fed up: On Tuesday, Danni gave her fans another update, revealing the extreme measures that her and her friends had had to take to try and get home

It follows a 'huge failure' of the national air traffic control system which caused chaos on the August Bank Holiday Monday.

Britain's National Air Traffic Services (NATS) said it experienced 'technical issues' that forced controllers to switch from an automatic system for landing and dispatching flights to a manual one.

'Flight plans are being input manually which means we cannot process them at the same volume, hence we have applied traffic flow restrictions,' NATS said. A spokesman told MailOnline there was 'nothing to suggest a cyber attack'.

NATS said at 3.15pm it had 'identified and remedied' the technical issue affecting air traffic control systems and is working with airlines and airports to support the flights affected.

Transport Secretary Mark Harper said that despite the technical issue being resolved 'flights are still unfortunately affected'.

He tweeted that he would 'encourage all passengers to read the UK Civil Aviation Authority's guidance & be aware of their rights when flights are delayed or cancelled'.
Leigh-Anne Pinnock dazzled as she joined Nathalie Emmanuel in west London for the much-anticipated Notting Hill Carnival on Monday.

The Little Mix star, 31, looked incredible in a feathered bodysuit that consisted of an embellished cut-out bra and beaded thong bottoms.

Her outfit was adorned with red, yellow and green feathers and topped off with a pair of netted gloves.

Leigh-Anne flashed a big smile as she made her way to the event, which takes place annually to celebrate the British Caribbean community in the UK.

Meanwhile Games Of Thrones star Nathalie, 34, wore a flamboyant tie-dye jumpsuit, with loose fitting trousers and a tracksuit top.

Amazing: Leigh-Anne Pinnock, 31, dazzled as she joined Nathalie Emmanuel in west London for the much-anticipated Notting Hill Carnival on Monday

Festivities: Games Of Thrones star Nathalie, 34, wore a flamboyant tie-dye jumpsuit, with loose fitting trousers and a tracksuit top

The actress wore an incredible set of feather wings on her back as she made her way to Mas.

Leigh-Anne walked with the Mahogany Mas Band and and posed for photos as she passed the judging area.

The final day of Notting Hill Carnival kicked off on Monday as a spectacle of beautiful costumes and performances flood West London's streets.

The annual event is the largest street party in Europe and it's estimated that two million people have attended over the bank holiday weekend.

People could be seen partying atop floats followed by feathered bands dancing to the beat.

Meanwhile the sweet, smoky scent of jerk chicken filled the side streets where sound systems played everything from rare groove to house, samba, reggae and ska.

Originating from the late 1950s and 60s, Carnival is a community-led celebration honouring music, dancing, food and drink rooted in Caribbean culture.

Today's parade is said to be particularly focusing on 'adults day', which involves lots of dancing and partying.

Stunning: The Little Mix star looked incredible in a feathered bodysuit that consisted of an embellished cut-out bra and beaded thong bottoms.

Festivities: Her outfit was adorned with red, yellow and green feathers and topped off with a pair of netted gloves

All smiles: Nathalie wore an incredible set of feather wings on her back as she made her way to Mas

Event: Leigh-Anne walked with the Mahogany Mas Band and and posed for photos as she passed the judging area

The festival will also celebrate and remember the 75th anniversary of the docking of HMT Empire Windrush.

The introduction of sound systems and mas bands 50 years ago transformed it into a large-scale event.

All throughout London, colourfully costumed samba dancers and bands will be seen parading through the streets.

Blaring music and feathered and bejewelled revellers have made all the tweaks needed to their outfits.
Phoebe Dynevor was spotted showing off a baby bump as she filmed scenes for upcoming thriller movie Anniversary in Dublin, Ireland, last Monday.

The actress, 28, got into character as she sported a prosthetic pregnancy belly while joining her co-stars Dylan O'Brien and Daryl McCormack to shoot scenes.

Phoebe cut an elegant figure in a cream midi dress which hugged the baby bump as she was seen dancing and laughing with actor Dylan, 32, on set.

She completed her stylish ensemble with a smart cream jacket and a pair of silver heels, though she slipped into a more comfortable pair of boots in between takes.

The Bridgerton star was seen cradling her prosthetic bump as they shot scenes, while she was also seen walking hand-in-hand with Dylan in another moment.

Pregnant: Phoebe Dynevor was spotted showing off a baby bump as she filmed scenes for upcoming thriller movie Anniversary in Dublin, Ireland, last Monday

Baby bump: The actress, 28, got into character as she sported a prosthetic pregnancy belly while shooting scenes

Fun times: Phoebe was joined by her co-stars Dylan O'Brien and Daryl McCormack and they were all seen dancing together on set

Dylan cut a suave figure in grey trousers and a navy shirt, which he wore underneath a smart black jacket as he got into character.

The pair were also joined on set by Good Luck to You, Leo Grande star Daryl, who looked equally dapper as he stood chatting to Dylan.

Daryl looked very smart in dark grey trousers and an olive shirt, which he styled with a tie as the group appeared to be attending a fancy event.

He was seen joining Phoebe and Dylan as they all showed off their dance moves in one jovial moment as they shot scenes outside a building.

Director Jan Komasa was also seen snapping a quick selfie of the group as they documented the filming process in between takes.

Little is known about any of the stars' characters so far, and their names have not yet been revealed.

Anniversary will follow a once-tight-knit family that becomes fractured due to the emergence of a movement called The Change, which quickly spreads around the US.

Glam: Phoebe cut an elegant figure in a cream midi dress which hugged the baby bump for the scenes

Chic: She completed her stylish ensemble with a smart cream jacket and a pair of silver heels, though she slipped into a more comfortable pair of boots in between takes

All smiles: Phoebe was seen being twirled around by Dylan as they danced together in one moment

Expecting: The Bridgerton star was seen cradling her prosthetic bump as they shot scenes

Pals: Phoebe threw her arms around Dylan as the co-stars appeared on jovial terms during filming

Hand-in-hand: Phoebe was seen walking holding hands with Dylan as they filmed a scene together

Baby bump: Though little is known about Phoebe's character in the film, it is clear that she is pregnant

Friendly: Phoebe flashed a huge smile as she threw her arms around co-star and pal Dylan

Smart: Dylan cut a suave figure in grey trousers and a navy shirt, which he wore underneath a smart black jacket as he got into character with Daryl

Larking around: The group appeared to be having the time of their live as they all danced on set

Busy: The cast and crew were all seen having another busy day on set as they shot scenes in Dublin

Glam: Phoebe looked very elegant as she sported her formal-wear look while getting into character

The Handmaid's Tale star Madeline Brewer, Zoey Deutch, Kyle Chandler and Mckenna Grace are also making up the cast, according to Digital Spy.

It comes after it was reported that Phoebe's sister Hattie is set to follow in her footsteps to become a TV actress.

And Hattie is making her move into showbiz as she has signed up to appear in BBC One drama Waterloo Road, The Sun reported earlier this year.

The series, about a troubled comprehensive school set in Rochdale, Lancashire, helped put her sister Phoebe, 27, on the map 14 years ago.

A TV insider told the publication: 'Hattie bagging a part on Waterloo Road sees the Dynevors become a real acting dynasty.

'It is a no-brainer for the show and a shrewd move for her too.

Jovial: They all appeared to be in excellent spirits as they took a minute to show off their moves

Twirl: Dylan twirled a smiling Phoebe around as the pair had a great time

On set: The trio appeared to be having the time of their lives on set shooting for the upcoming film

Having a blast: Phoebe couldn't help but laugh and smile as Dylan twirled her around

Fun: Dylan shielded his eyes with a pair of dark sunglasses as he danced around with Phoebe

Good spirits: The cast were seen taking a break as Phoebe, Dylan and Daryl all danced together

Spin: Dylan twirled Phoebe around as the pair had a great time on set

Friends: Daryl couldn't help but join in on the fun as they all larked around together

Gorgeous: Phoebe looked very glamorous as she swept her brunette locks back into an up-do for the scenes

Suave: Daryl looked very smart in dark grey trousers and an olive shirt, which he styled with a tie as the group appeared to be attending a fancy event

Serious: Daryl was seen looking surprised while Dylan pulled a serious expression during one scene

Co-stars: Daryl was seen clapping as he chatted with Dylan during one scene for the upcoming thriller

Close: Phoebe and Dylan proved they had become close pals during filming as they shared a close hug

Say cheese! Director Jan Komasa was also seen snapping a quick selfie of the group as they documented the filming process in between takes

Busy: Phoebe was joined by the crew as she got into character for the scenes

All smiles: Director Jan cut a casual figure in black jeans and a dark jumper for the day

Plot: Phoebe's character name has not been revealed in Anniversary, which will follow a once-close family that becomes fractured due to the emergence of a movement called The Change

Siblings: It comes after it was reported that Phoebe's sister Hattie (pictured) is set to follow in her footsteps to become a TV actress

'Not many fledgling stars would get a part on such a big drama so early in their career.

'But they're confident she has the skills to do the job  after all the ability to perform runs in the family.'

Phoebe and Hattie, 19, are the daughters of Coronation Street legend Sally Dynevor and Tim Dynevor. They also have a brother Samuel, 26.

Sally, 59, has played the part of Sally Metcalfe in Corrie for 27 years since 1986, while Tim, 61, also started out as an actor before becoming a writer, penning scripts for the likes of Emmerdale.
Jessie Wallace cut a casual figure as she touched down at Heathrow Airport after returning to the UK from a holiday with her fiance Justin Gallwey on Sunday.

The EastEnders star, 51, donned a long-sleeved midi dress with a multi-coloured floral pattern on the outing.

The actress also sported a pair of open-toed blue slippers along with a pair of black-rimmed glasses as she strolled alongside her partner.

Going makeup free for the trip, Jessie completed her look with a pale pink top.

Justin also opted for a laid back look as he sported a navy T-shirt while wheeling the couple's suitcases through the airport.

Laid back: Jessie Wallace touched down at Heathrow Airport after returning to the UK from a holiday with her fiance Justin Gallwey on Sunday

Outfit: The EastEnders star, 51, donned a long-sleeved midi dress with a multi-coloured floral pattern on the outing

It comes after Jessie confirmed her engagement to Justin in a heartfelt post she shared earlier this year.

The soap star broke her silence after reports they had got engaged as she uploaded a sweet snap with him

She captioned the post: 'My fiance and moi' as they cosied up to each other and she placed her hand on his chest.

It was previously reported Justin had been helping Jessie to battle her booze demons after she was arrested for allegedly assaulting a police officer.

He told The Sun on Sunday: 'I just want to protect her. Everything is happy and things are good.'

Justin, who is said to keep a Jessie doll from Toy Story in his van, told The Sun last year: 'Our relationship is fine. We are very close.'

Speaking of the police incident, he added: 'I have made my apologies and so has Jessie.'

Jessie expressed her deep regret' after she allegedly told a police officer to 'f*** off you fat c***' during 'five minutes of carnage' outside a nightclub.

Casual: The actress also sported a pair of open-toed blue slippers along with a pair of black-rimmed glasses as she strolled alongside her partner

The star, who plays barmaid Kat Slater in BBC soap EastEnders, allegedly kneed the officer in the groin before she was arrested and placed into a police van, but she was later released without charge.

She was warned by BBC chiefs that her behaviour was 'unacceptable' after the incident, with Jessie expressing her 'deep regret'.

A BBC spokesman told MailOnline at the time: 'Senior bosses have spoken to Jessie Wallace about the incident and issued a clear warning that this kind of behaviour is unacceptable. Jessie has expressed her deep regret.'

Jessie downplayed rumours she was married to Justin last summer after referring to him as her 'husband'.

She prompted inevitable speculation across social media courtesy of an Instagram post, in which she hinted at something more than a committed relationship.

Cute: It comes after Jessie confirmed her engagement to Justin in a heartfelt post she shared earlier this year

Sharing a photo of herself wrapped in Justin's arms as they relaxed in a London pub, Jessie added the simple caption: 'My hubby.'

However the wedding ring one might expect to see was notably absent as the actress ventured out for shopping close to her home in the English capital at the time.

Jessie and Justin are said to have known each other since they were teenagers.

Justin hinted at his plans to propose last July, commenting on a photo of Jessie and her friend Jaime Winstone modelling matching costume jewellery on the set of a special flashback episode of EastEnders.

Taking to Instagram, he wrote: 'See I told you you would have a ring on that finger by the end of the year.'
George Clooney joined his glamorous wife Amal in Venice, Italy ahead of the city's 80th International Film Festival on Tuesday.

The actor, 62, looked smart in navy blue polo top with a pair of pinstriped pale blue trousers.

He topped his look off with a reflective pair of sunglasses and some brown suede shoes.

Linking arms with her husband, Amal, 45, looked sensational in a floral shift dress that she teamed with some stiletto heels by Roger Vivier.

The couple, who have been married for nearly nine years were seen enjoying quality time together ahead of the event.

Stylish: George Clooney, 62, joined his glamorous wife Amal, 45, in Venice, Italy ahead of the city's 80th International Film Festival on Tuesday

The 2023 Venice Film Festival is set to be a far more low-key affair than years past, as much of Hollywood opts to stay away for fear of breaching the SAG-AFTRA strikes.

The glitzy Italian event kicks off on Wednesday, and usually sees some of Hollywood's biggest stars grace the red carpet to promote their work.

However, this year only a handful of independant productions have permission to be promoted by their stars, with Venice confirming on Monday that Adam Driver and Jessica Chastain will still make appearances at the festival.

Since July 17, Hollywood has ground to a halt as members of the SAG-AFTRA union joined the Writers Guild Of America in going on strike over growing concerns of the use of artificial intelligence and streaming residuals.

According to Variety, a select list of films premiering at Venice have obtained SAG-AFTRA interim waivers since they are independent productions that have not been produced by AMPTP members.

Adam is expected to appear at the Lido to promote his role in Micheal Mann's Ferrari, where he plays the titular race car icon.

The Daily Mail's Alison Boshoff previously revealed last week that Adam would follow Florence Pugh last year and make a fleeting appearance at the festival.

Jessica is also set to attend following her role in Mexican director Michael France's film Memory, her first performance since her Oscar-winning turn in The Eyes Of Tammy Faye.

Slick: The actor looked smart in navy blue polo top with a pair of pinstriped pale blue trousers

Couple: He topped his look off with a reflective pair of sunglasses and some brown suede shoes

Stunning: Linking arms with her husband, Amal looked sensational in a floral shift dress that she teamed with some stiletto heels

Busy week: The couple, who have been married for nearly nine years were seen enjoying quality time together ahead of the festivities

Relaxing: The pair were seen boarding a small boat on the canal

Chic: Amal shielded her eyes with a huge pair of sunglasses

Quiet? The 2023 Venice Film Festival is set to be a far more low-key affair than years past, as much of Hollywood opts to stay away for fear of breaching the SAG-AFTRA strikes

Also set to attend is Mads Mikkelson to promote his performance in Danish filmmaker Nikolaj Arcel's The Promised Land.

Caleb Landry Jones is also heading to Venice for his appearance in the Luc Besson film Dogman.

Sofia Coppola's biopic Priscilla will also see much of its cast attend the premiere, including Cailee Spaeny and Jacob Elordi, as well as Priscilla Presley herself.

While many Hollywood stars aren't expected to grace the red carpet, so far only one party has been cancelled, an Armani event in honour of Cate Blanchett.
They delighted fans after recently confirming they have rekindled their romance.

And Maya Jama and Stormzy wore matching his and hers white outfits as they spent quality time together in Greece during a romantic getaway.

Love Island host Maya, 29, looked incredible as she donned a white T-shirt along with a pair of matching trousers as she indulged in some retail therapy in Christian Dior.

The presenter also sported a cream hoodie as she enjoyed a glass of champange in the designer store.

Sharing a snap of herself on Instagram, she wrote: 'Really struggling saying no to free booze but I need a detox lol'.

Matching: Maya Jama and Stormzy wore matching his and hers white outfits as they spent quality time together in Greece during a romantic getaway

Meanwhile, Stormzy cut a relaxed figure as he made a solo trip to the beach on Saturday.

The grime superstar, 30, donned an all-white ensemble and black Crocs as he stepped out alone.

The couple suffered a set back on Tuesday after it was reported they were left stuck on the tarmac at a Greek airport.

According to The Sun, the pair's private jet was left grounded as thousands of passengers at the airport were left stranded due to an air traffic control failure.

A source told the publication: 'Stormzy and Maya flew to Athens by helicopter then got in his private jet - but ended up being stuck on the tarmac for hours because of the flight chaos.

'Eventually they took off but on another jet and got back late last night.'

Maya had earlier shared a stunning photo of herself on the private jet as she enjoyed a glass of white wine.

The presenter looked incredible in a plunging green midi dress as she beamed at the camera, with Stormzy nowhere to be seen.

Stepping out: The grime superstar donned an all-white ensemble and black Crocs as he stepped out alone

Exciting: For weeks the pair had dropped hints that their relationship was back on, with festival meet-ups and cosy rendezvous at his house

For weeks the couple had dropped hints that their relationship was back on, with festival meet-ups and cosy rendezvous at his house.

Eagle-eyed fans then noticed that Maya and Stormzy had jetted to Greece together to celebrate her birthday, with both sharing social media posts from the same 2,700-per-night Greek villa.

And on Sunday, Maya and Stormzy confirmed they'd rekindled their romance after months of speculation.

The couple were spotted walking hand-in-hand as they ventured out on Island together, since rumours of a romantic reconciliation surfaced more than a week ago.

Insiders told The Sun that the pairs relationship was secretly rekindled a year ago as they were reportedly seen kissing in an extra special VIP area at the EMA Awards in Germany, days before the GQ bash in London.

And it has also been claimed that Stormzy's mum, Abigail Owuo, was the matchmaker who 'motivated him to make amends with Maya'.

A source told The Sun: 'Stormzy is really open about wanting to settle down and have kids one day and he knows Maya is 'The One'.'

Grounded: The couple reportedly suffered a set back on Tuesday after it was reported they were left stuck on the tarmac at a Greek airport

Making amends: Insiders told The Sun that the pair's relationship was secretly rekindled a year ago as they were reportedly seen kissing at an awards bash in Germany

The pair are believed to be soaking up the sun in a Greek villa as a 'late birthday gift' to the Love Island host.

Speculation had been rife about whether Maya and Stormzy had reunited, after she was spotted at his All Points East show last weekend.

The couple dated for four years before parting ways in 2019, with the rapper, publicly declaring he has 'never loved anyone how I've loved her'.

He has always denied any infidelity in the relationship but admitted he had to learn some hard lessons about his behaviour, describing it as 'disrespectful'.

Speaking to Louis Theroux on his interview series, the rapper admitted to making mistakes during their four-year relationship but revealed he has since grown.

He explained: 'My break-up, that was probably the biggest catalyst for growth as a man. It was like, OK, you made a mistake and you lose someone you loved, someone you cared for, someone who is special to you.

'That's probably the biggest loss a man can have, isn't it? Away from someone passing away, that's the biggest loss you can have.'
David Haye has hinted he is in a new throuple after splitting from The Saturdays star Una Healy earlier this year.

The boxer, 41, shared a photo from Notting Hill Carnival on Monday of his girlfriend Sian Osborne posing with a stunning model named Danielle.

He captioned the snap 'my girls' as he thanked music legend Shaggy, who was performing at Carnival, for partying with the pair.

'Big bro @DiRealShaggy Thanks for taking care of my girls. They had a great time! I owe you one!!!' David wrote.

Sian later reposted a copy of the photo shared by Danielle, who has worked as a model for Canadian fashion brand LANGsura.

'My girls': David Haye has hinted he is in a new throuple, sharing a photo from Notting Hill Carnival on Monday of his girlfriend Sian Osborne and stunning Italian model Danielle with his friend Shaggy, captioned 'my girls'

Split: The supposed new throuple comes after Una Healy said she was 'hoodwinked' into a 'throuple' with David and his model girlfriend Sian

A representative for David has been contacted by MailOnline for comment.

The supposed new throuple comes after Una Healy said she was 'hoodwinked' into a 'throuple' with David and his model girlfriend Sian after tales of their involvement hit headlines.

Una said she wanted to put the rumours of being in the throuple 'to bed'.

She revealed she had been looking for a monogamous relationship but decided to date polyamorous David because their romance was 'casual, it wasn't serious.'

Yet David soon introduced Sian into the fold, insisting the ladies got to know each other while inviting her to come away on holiday with Una.

Although the trio enjoyed an initial short getaway in Morocco together it was on a second trip to Costa Rica that Una realised she could no longer be part of the relationship.

While in Central America she was given a 'sign' when she heard the track The Boy Is Mine by Brandy and Monica, a song about two love rivals feuding over a man.

Una confessed: 'As soon as I got there, I could hear the song. It just wasn't right.

Model: Sian later reposted a copy of the photo shared by Danielle, who has worked as a model for Canadian fashion brand LANGsura

'There's no dynamic there - she's not my girlfriend - he's both our boyfriend and I just thought, "I'm out, you can have him."

However, Sian appeared to brand Una a 'liar' according to The Sun.

They report Sian shared a dictionary definition of the word hoodwinked - in relation to Una's bold claims.

Next to the beaming snaps, which she dated November 2022, she wrote: 'Hoodwink: verb to deceive or trick someone'.

'A liar weaves a tangled web, trapping themselves in a labyrinth of deceit.

Before adding: 'When we embrace truth, we align ourselves with the harmonious order of the universe.'

It was revealed earlier this month that Una has reportedly begun dating a Love Island star as she moves on with her romantic life after the drama.

The Sun claims she has found love with Irish comedian Stephen Mullan, 35, - who is the narrator for Australian Love Island.

In April MailOnline revealed David and Sian had moved on from Una and formed a throuple with Michaela Jovanovic, a former twerk dance teacher who hails from a family of Serbian migrants living in Austria.

In March the former boxing champ posted a series of pictures of both women as he lived it up with them in Costa Rica in Central America.

Drama: Una revealed she had been looking for a monogamous relationship but decided to date polyamorous David because their romance was 'casual, it wasn't serious'

Haye later gushed about the 'extraordinary connection' that had brought about the unconventional arrangement, which he admitted would be frowned upon back home.

He wrote: 'I have found myself in the company of open-hearted individuals who perceive me through the lens of my daily actions, rather than the societal expectations foisted upon a man of 42.

'A recalibration of my manner of living shall be necessary, for the attire of flip-flops, shorts, and a perpetually bare abdomen is hardly suited to the climate of my home town of London.

'I shall carry with me the memory of those extraordinary connections forged with radiant spirits, who shared in the marvellous odyssey we embarked upon together.'
A Chicago TV news crew reporting on armed robberies was robbed themselves Monday morning.

The two-man Univision Chicago crew was setting up a live shot in the citys Wicker Park neighborhood around 5 a.m. Monday when three men wearing ski masks and carrying guns approached them, police said.

The armed men demanded money, then snatched two bags of equipment, the photographers backpack and the camera used to film the story on robberies, the Chicago Sun-Times reported.

Mainly it was personal items, and they took a camera, Univision Chicago vice president Luis Godinez told the Chicago Tribune.

The victims were identified only as two men ages 42 and 28. They were not injured in the attack, and Univision did not identify the two men to protect their privacy. No suspects have been arrested.

Univision Chicago had planned the report on several armed robberies in the citys West Town area, just northwest of the downtown Loop, for a Monday morning newscast.

After the robbery, the station scrapped the segment and ran with a general story about the incidents on its 5 p.m. broadcast, which included only a passing mention of their own run-in.

As a journalist, you never want to be the story, right? Youre reporting on the story but you never think that you can become the story. Thats not why we do this, the reporter told local news outlet Block Club Chicago. He called it total irony.

It was the second time this month a reporter was robbed in Chicago. On Aug. 8, a photographer at local ABC affiliate WLS was assaulted and robbed while preparing to cover a press conference on the citys West Side.

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Erika Jayne has again insisted that she never used Ozempic to get thin.

'My answer stands then and it stands now,' she said to Extra on Monday, which means she has not touched the weight loss drug.

And the 52-year-old Real Housewives Of Beverly Hills star explained that she has always been slim.

'I've always been tiny,' said the star, who has been promoting her Las Vegas Show.

'I got bigger during all of my depression and through everything else,' she added.

Her depression came from her split from husband Tom Girardi and their massive financial scandal. Girardi, 84, faces 20 years in prison after he was indicted for fraud.

Round to thin: Erika Jayne has again insisted that she never used Ozempic to get thin. 'My answer stands then and it stands now,' she said to Extra on Monday, which means she has not touched the weight loss drug

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Now that she is done with Tom and working more than ever, the weight fell off, she explained.

'There's nothing like putting on a show and a little bit of stress to get you right back into shape,' she said of her Sin City show.

This month she kicked off her Las Vegas residency show Bet It All on Blonde which is at the House of Blues inside Mandalay Bay through December 16

She also talked about her struggle.

'The last three years have been really tough, and I pulled it together and here it is. I made lemonade out of lemons, man.'

Erika shared, 'You have to look at struggles as either one of two things: you're either going to meet it or you're going to run away from it. And I chose to meet it head-on and walk through that fire, and it led me here.'

She added her show is about 'fantasy, love, escape, glitz, glamor, and fun. Nothing more.'

'Last night was about a rebuild, a rebirth, and a return, truly, to the stage on my own terms,' she said. 'This is my show. It's on my shoulders. It feels good. It's heavy, but it feels good.'

And she dished on the next season of RHOBH.

'Kyle, of course, has this chef that cooks with THC... so I was feeling really great and then fights broke out and I was just so clueless...

'Like, "What are you talking about? You're ruining my buzz." I went home and slept like a baby...

'What are you talking about, you are mad at me from four years ago? Do you have any idea what I have been through?... who cares?'

On stage: Jayne performs during the grand opening of her Las Vegas residency, Bet It All On Blonde, at House of Blues Las Vegas at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino on August 25

In early August Erika said during an appearance on Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen that menopause caused her to lose weight.

The reality star appeared slimmed down while appearing on the Bravo talk show wearing a black tank top, matching pants and tall boots.

'Looking like a whisper of herself,' host Andy, 55, said while introducing the cast member of The Real Housewives Of Beverly Hills.

Andy later told Erika that she looked great and asked about her weight loss.

'Yeah, I lost weight,' Erika said.

'Here's what. Let me just start off by saying, you know, I want to make sure that I don't trigger anybody because we have this conversation in Beverly Hills and we have a cast member with an eating disorder,' Erika said referencing Crystal Kung Minkoff, 40, who has openly shared her struggles with bulimia nervosa and body dysmorphia.

Weight loss: Jayne acknowledged her obvious weight loss and credited it to her 'menopause' on Tuesday's episode of Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen

Slimmed down: The 52-year-old reality star showed her slimmed down look earlier on Thursday in New York City (left). She is pictured right in 2021

'But, yes, I did come down in weight and I did it hormonally,' Erika said.

'Not Ozempic-ally?,' Andy asked referencing the drug Ozempic that is being used for weight loss.

'I was going through menopause,' Erika said. 'So, I took it all down.'

'Who loses weight in menopause?,' cracked fellow guest comedian Jackie Hoffman, 62.

'Me, I went to the doctor and I said get it off. Me,' Erika said.

The US National Institute on Aging in its explanation of menopause notes that it affects each woman uniquely.

'The body begins to use energy differently, fat cells change, and women may gain weight more easily,' the NIA said on its website.

Not Ozempic-ally: 'But, yes, I did come down in weight and I did it hormonally,' Erika said of her weight loss

The host: 'Looking like a whisper of herself,' host Andy Cohen, 55, said while introducing the cast member of The Real Housewives Of Beverly Hills

Erika was on the Bravo talk show promoting her upcoming Las Vegas residency 'Bet It All On Blonde' that begins on August 25 at the House Of Blues at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino.

The 90-minute weekend shows will include old tracks, new music, and 'clever' covers, Erika said.

Erika said she was adding additional shows for BravoCon weekend in Las Vegas in early November.

The reality star admitted that she was nervous about the residency that starts in three weeks.

'Yes, I am [nervous] and I should be. It is a lot of work, it's a great opportunity and good show,' Erika said.

Changing face: Erika is seen left on WWHL and right at the RHOBH reunion in 2021

Ozempic has been a hot topic in Hollywood with stars either admitting using the diabetes drug for weight loss or staunchly denying it.

Semaglutide, is sold under the brand names Ozempic and Rybelsus as an antidiabetic medication used for the treatment of type 2 diabetes and under the brand name Wegovy as an anti-obesity medication for long-term weight management.

The drugs act like a hormone in the brain that causes people to feel less hungry and slow the clearing of food from the stomach, which spurs weight loss.

Erika's castmate on RHOBH Kyle Richards, 54, back in February slammed online speculation that she was secretly using Ozempic to lose weight.

Speaking to DailyMail.com about the ongoing rumors about her weight-loss, Kyle admitted that she found it frustrating to see her hard work dismissed as the result a 'cheat drug'.

'When people try to blame my appearance on surgery or Ozempic, which would be completely irresponsible to use when diabetics can't get their hands on it, it's really frustrating to me,' Kyle explained.

Working it: Kyle Richards of The Real Housewives Of Beverly Hills, shown earlier this year on Instagram, has denied using Ozempic

'It bothers me. I'd rather just inspire people with what I'm doing so they can try the same things I've been doing and see what happens to them.'

Kyle also denied using Ozempic in January during an appearance on Teddi Mellencamp and Tamra Judge's show Two Ts In A Pod.

'A lot of people think I've been taking Ozempic. To clarify I've never taken Ozempic,' Kyle said referencing the diabetes drug.

Kyle at the time also noted that she wasn't using Mounjaro either, a similar diabetes medication being used for weight loss, or 'any of the shots' such as Wegovy or Saxenda.
Netflix fans have gone wild over a new thriller Who Is Erin Carter? which they've hailed as a '10/10'.

Since its release on the streaming giant on Thursday, several TV fans have taken to Twitter to comment on the show - starring Evin Ahmad as the titular character - with many viewers branding it 'brilliant' and 'dope'.

While another confessed that they simply 'couldn't leave' their laptop until they'd finished watching the whole series.

The show, released on August 24, centres around the secretive teacher whose name inspires the title, as her past catches up with her despite leaving home with her family for Spain.

The huge reaction to the seven-part series comes after it was initially panned by critiques who slammed it for it's 'atrocious dialogue'.

Loving it: Netflix fans have gone wild over a new thriller Who Is Erin Carter? which they've hailed as a '10/10'

Hit: Since its release on the streaming giant on Thursday, several TV fans have taken to Twitter to comment on the show - starring Evin Ahmad as the titular character - with many viewers branding it 'brilliant' and 'dope'

However, it's clear that Netflix viewers have ignored the naysayers, with several expressing their excitement over the show on social media.

One wrote on Twitter: 'Started Who is Erin Carter? On Netflix and couldnt leave my laptop till I finished it. It was brilliant!'

While in response, a second person added: 'I concur. A roller coaster.'

'Who is erin carter on netflix definitely 10/10' declared a third.

As a fourth agreed: 'Who is Erin carter on Netflix a 10/10 it was so good.'

'First episode of Who Is Erin Carter? on Netflix was fire. I know what Ima be doing all day' tweeted a fifth.

'This Who is Erin Carter movie on Netflix is dope Sha!' gushed a sixth excited watcher.

With another commenting: 'whoever on here told me to watch Who Is Erin Carter on netflix - lowkey god bless you!!!'

Reaction: However, it's clear that Netflix viewers have ignored the naysayers, with several expressing their excitement over the show on social media

The titular teacher is performed by Evin Ahmad, 33, who was named the Rising Star at 2022's Berlin International Film Festival.

Netflix's synopsis of the series promises an intriguing story, following Erin, the 'mum, wife, and teacher' whose life is at risk of unravelling when it becomes apparent that she is more than she lets on after she is recognised by an armed robber.

The supply teacher has moved with her family to Barcelona, where it would appear she is hoping to cover her tracks.

It says: 'Who Is Erin Carter? combines a unique blend of genres: Erins family life and work life at the local international school offers rich character-driven domestic drama, while the crime story combines nail-biting plot twists with breath-taking action sequences.'

Fresh: Netflix released Who Is Erin Carter? on August 24 and people are 'glued' to the drama

Mystery: The series follows the title character as she tries to leave her past behind with a new life in Spain, but the teacher's dark past starts to catch her up

Verdict: The huge reaction to the seven-part series comes after it was initially panned by critiques who slammed it for it's 'atrocious dialogue'

Between them, the seven parts feature gunfights, car chases, and great escapes, as the title character desperately tries to hold things together.

Erin's fictional family are husband Jordi and daughter Harper, played by Sean Teale and Indica Watson respectively.

Many of the new show's viewers are beginning to see why Ahmad is tipped for big things, describing Who Is Erin Carter? as 'a very very good watch,' applauding, or giving it a five star rating.

Someone simply tweeted: 'Who Is Erin Carter on Netflix 10/10', one more added: 'Who Is Erin Carter on Netflix is so good!!!'

Others have likened it to some TV royalty.

'Who is Erin Carter? A remake of The Long Kiss Goodnight with a pinch of Villanelle,' one said, with the latter name a reference to Killing Eve's iconic protagonist.

Another compared it to the 2021 Netflix hit Stay Close, while somebody else said it 'looks like we have another hit on our hands.'

Can't stop: Viewers of the new drama have been struggling to take their eyes off it
Carmen Electra looked ready to flashback to her days on Baywatch in a 1990s-inspired photo shoot for the Australian brand I.AM.GIA.

The former MTV Spring Break VJ, 51, looked pretty in pink and plaid and black in the various looks she modeled as well as and decades younger than her age.

She wore a pale pink lingerie-inspired sheer tank top with a plunging neckline and tiny shorts with lace up white booties and white and pink knee-high socks.

The Scary Movie star's waist-length blonde hair was styled straight and she wore sunglasses as she posed on an outdoor stage and held an old-school microphone.

The snaps prompted one fan to comment: 'MTV spring break vibes!!'

Beach babe: Carmen Electra looked ready to flashback to her days on Baywatch in a 1990s-inspired photo shoot for the Australian brand I.AM.GIA

Pretty in pink: She wore a pale pink lingerie inspired sheer tank top with a plunging neckline and tiny shorts with white booties and white and pink knee-high socks

In another look, the Good Burger actress wore a grey plaid minidress that showcased her ample cleavage beautifully.

Her hair was blown out and hung like a lion's mane from her head. She wore light pink lipstick and huge hoop earrings.

The ultra sexy look prompted commenters to write: 'Iconic' and 'Best of the best.'

Carmen's third look had a Jane of the Jungle vibe to it with its ombre brown, long-sleeved, fur-trimmed shrug that exposed miles of cleavage.

The 'Til Death Do Us Part: Carmen and Dave alum paired the top with a micro mini and knee high boots in the same fabric.

In the next snap, the former Playboy Playmate wore a skin tight, long beige dress with lacing detail down the sides and center of her chest. She paired the sleek look with cork-heeled wedge sandals.

The Chocolate City actress also modeled a sleeveless black jumpsuit with a neckline that plunged all the way to below her belly button. One slim black strap below her breasts kept her modest.

In another snap the Ohio native posed bent over in just a pair of jeans and and a silver bikini top with unusual looking silver, white and black heels.

Plaid: In another look, the Good Burger actress wore a grey plaid minidress that showcased her ample cleavage beautifully

Jungle: Carmen's third look had a Jane of the Jungle vibe to it with its ombre brown, long-sleeved, fur-trimmed shrug that exposed miles of cleavage

Gorgeous: The 'Til Death Do Us Part: Carmen and Dave alum paired the top with a micro mini and knee high boots in the same fabric

Laced up: In the next snap, she wore a skin tight, long beige dress with lacing detail down the sides and center of her chest

Jumpsuit: The Chocolate City actress also modeled a sleeveless black jumpsuit with a neckline that plunged all the way to below her belly button In another snap the Ohio native posed bent over in just a pair of jeans and and a silver bikini top with unusual looking silver, white and black heels

Bikini babe: In another snap the Ohio native posed bent over in just a pair of jeans and and a silver bikini top with unusual looking silver, white and black heel

Rock n Roll: Carmen also modeled a long, figure-hugging black leather skirt with a matching cropped halter top

Crawling: The top featured criss-crossed straps across her tanned back. She paired the look with a pair of sky high platform heels with studding detail

Sheer: The final look the Monster Island actress wore was a floor-length, black tube dress. The dress featured sheer black cutouts across the torso starting just below her breast and extending to her belly button

Carmen also modeled a long, figure-hugging black leather skirt with a matching cropped halter top

The top featured criss-crossed straps across her tanned back. She paired the look with a pair of sky high platform heels with studding detail.

The final look the Monster Island actress wore was a floor-length, black tube dress.

The dress featured sheer black cutouts across the torso starting just below her breast and extending to her belly button.
All Creatures Great And Small fans have been given their first glimpse at the upcoming fourth series ahead of its debut on Channel 5 this autumn.

The period series, based on James Herriot's iconic collection of stories, is set to return in the coming weeks with a new six-episode run, along with a Christmas Special.

First look snaps show a glimpse of newly-married James Herriott (Nicholas Ralph) and his new wife Helen (Rachel Shenton) as they discuss the prospect of starting a family, not knowing whether or not James will be called up to serve in the RAF.

Life in the Dales is tinged with sadness as Tristan Farnon (Callum Woodhouse) has bid farewell to serve in the Royal Army Veterinary Corps, with the threat of the ongoing war more prominent than ever as the series reaches spring in 1940.

Sigfried (Samuel West) feels Tristan's absence more than most, as with animals running amuk, he struggles to keep the growing household together.

Coming soon! All Creatures Great And Small fans have been given their first glimpse at series four, as Helen (Rachel Shenton) and James Herriot (Nicholas Ralph) discuss starting a family

Mrs Hall (Anna Madeley) and Helen's friendship blossoms as they look to the future and new trainee veterinary student Richard Carmody arrives, causing complications in the house.

James Anthony-Rose is set to join the case as studious but somewhat unworldly undergraduate veterinary student Richard, who appears in one of the new images alongside Neve McIntosh, as the highly efficient bookkeeper Miss Harbottle.

Patricia Hodge also reprises her role as the wonderfully eccentric Mrs Pumphrey, alongside her adored pampered Pekingese Tricki.

Set during World War II, the show is based on the memoirs of vet Alf Wight - written under the pen name James Herriot.

The period drama follows the life of veterinarian James, who has moved to the Yorkshire village of Darrowby in 1930s England.

The North Yorkshire town of Grassington is used as a filming location, standing in for the fictional market town of Darrowby in the show.

Rachel and her family's farm is located in the small village of Airton, which is a half-hour's drive from Grassington.

In season three, Helen Alderson tied the knot with her on-screen husband James Herriot.

Not long to wait! The period series is set to return this autumn (pictured are Nicholas as James Herriot, Anna Madeley as Mrs Hall and Samuel West as Siegfried Farnon)

Change of scenery! James Anthony-Rose is set to join the case as studious but somewhat unworldly undergraduate veterinary student Richard Carmody (pictured)

Wow! The fourth series picks up in 1940, with the village concerned by the threat of war, and Tristan's absence heavily felt following his call-up

Drama! Sigfried (Samuel West) feels Tristan's absence more than most, as with animals running amuk, he struggles to keep the growing household together

Last year, All Creatures Great And Small was renewed for a third and fourth series.

On the double series order, Sebastian Cardwell, Channel 5 said: 'It is clear that our viewers adore James Herriot's adventures in Darrowby and so do we at Channel 5.

'I am looking forward to us all being reunited with the Skeldale House family when series three arrives on our screens this year.'

Executive Producer Louise Pedersen, CEO of All3Media International, commented: 'All Creatures Great and Small has proven to be a perfect tonic for audiences around the world seeking a top quality production with a warm and positive view of the world.

'We are pleased to be able to offer these further series to build the brand globally.'

On the announcement of a third and fourth series, Jim Wight and Rosie Page, Alf Wight's children said: 'For many years the books of James Herriot have provided a source of comfort to tens of thousands of people worldwide at difficult times in their lives.

'With this recent adaptation of his books, a new generation has been introduced to the joys of the Herriot stories.

'We are delighted that there are to be at least two more series of All Creatures Great and Small, and we are especially pleased that the same excellent actors and producers are to be involved.'

Never out of print, the books have become a global cultural phenomenon with devoted fans around the world.

All Creatures Great And Small will return to Channel 5 in the UK this autumn and PBS' Masterpiece streaming service in the US in 2024.
Last Saturday, Vanderpump Rules alum Rachel Leviss addressed the backlash to her three-part interview on Bethenny Frankel's Just B with Bethenny Podcast, which dropped August 16-18.

The troubled reality star - turning 29 next month - admitted she 'should have respected' the nine-year, live-in relationship her former BFF Ariana Madix had with boyfriend Tom Sandoval.

'You're not wrong! I should have had more self respect than that,' Rachel (formerly known as Raquel) replied to Bravo Tea with Jared B's August 18th Instagram post.

'No excuses. However, looking back, I see I had low self-worth and Tom kept telling me he was actively breaking up with her "amicably" for her "mental health," which I can now see was magical thinking.

'He had a million and one reasons why they hadn't broken up yet and it was easier to stay in that fantasy then to face the fact that the social anxiety and isolation was not worth it. So yes, absolutely you're 100% right. It was my responsibility to remove myself from that situation. Now I know better.'

'You're not wrong': Last Saturday, Vanderpump Rules alum Rachel Leviss (L) addressed the backlash to her three-part interview on Bethenny Frankel's (R) Just B with Bethenny Podcast, which dropped August 16-18

'I should have had more self respect than that': The troubled reality star - turning 29 next month - admitted she 'should have respected' the nine-year, live-in relationship her former BFF Ariana Madix (R) had with boyfriend Tom Sandoval (M)

The 38-year-old blonde originally uncovered the philandering 40-year-old's months-long affair with Leviss on March 1 after noticing her sexually-explicit video pop up on his phone.

However, eagle-eyed fans will recall how Tom cheated on his prior live-in girlfriend of eight years, Kristen Doute, in order to start dating Ariana back in 2014.

Madix and Sandoval continue to share their $2M five-bedroom Valley Village home while avoiding filming scenes together for the 11th season of the Real Housewives of Beverly Hills spin-off.

Last Friday, the Dancing with the Stars contestant blasted Miss Malibu 2022's claims that they 'were not best friends' in her controversial Bethenny interview.

'The fact that she said you are no more than an acquaintance, an alliance, a coworker, that was she was using you to get closer to Tom,' Scheananigans podcast host Scheana Shay scoffed.

Ariana replied: 'That was very hurtful...I wasn't using her for s***. I just thought that we were friends...All that does is diminish what I went through.'

Rachel - who was previously engaged to co-star James Kennedy - checked out of a 'voluntary facility for mental health counseling' in July after spending two months treating her 'patterns of codependency and addiction to being and feeling loved.'

Leviss has been photographed several times in her native Arizona where she's been spending time 'becoming a better person' under the guidance of her parents.

Rachel (formerly known as Raquel) replied to Bravo Tea with Jared B's August 18th Instagram post: 'No excuses. However, looking back, I see I had low self-worth and Tom kept telling me he was actively breaking up with her "amicably" for her "mental health," which I can now see was magical thinking'

Leviss continued: 'He had a million and one reasons why they hadn't broken up yet and it was easier to stay in that fantasy then to face the fact that the social anxiety and isolation was not worth it. So yes, absolutely you're 100% right. It was my responsibility to remove myself from that situation. Now I know better' (pictured November 23)

Scandoval: The 38-year-old blonde (R, pictured February 7) originally uncovered the philandering 40-year-old's (L) months-long affair with Leviss on March 1 after noticing her sexually-explicit video pop up on his phone

Notice a pattern? However, eagle-eyed fans will recall how Tom cheated on his prior live-in girlfriend of eight years, Kristen Doute (R), in order to start dating Ariana back in 2014

Action! Madix and Sandoval continue to share their $2M five-bedroom Valley Village home while avoiding filming scenes together for the 11th season of the Real Housewives of Beverly Hills spin-off (pictured last Saturday)

Seriously? Last Friday, the Dancing with the Stars contestant blasted Miss Malibu 2022's claims that they 'were not best friends' in her controversial Bethenny interview

'The fact that she said you are no more than an acquaintance, an alliance, a coworker, that was she was using you to get closer to Tom,' Scheananigans podcast host Scheana Shay scoffed

Ariana replied: 'That was very hurtful...I wasn't using her for s***. I just thought that we were friends...All that does is diminish what I went through'

The Sonoma State University grad officially quit Vanderpump Rules after five years in June following the emotional, three-part 10th season reunion.

Los Angeles-area Vanderpump fans can take part in the show this Wednesday at Tom Sandoval & The Most Extras' Maui wildfire benefit concert taking place at the El Rey Theatre.

Thanks to Scandoval, the Bravo show scored its very first Emmy Award nominations for unstructured reality program and picture editing for an unstructured reality program.

Due to the SAG/WGA strikes, the 75th Primetime Emmy Awards were rescheduled to air January 15 on Fox.

Personal growth: Rachel - who was previously engaged to co-star James Kennedy - checked out of a 'voluntary facility for mental health counseling' in July after spending two months treating her 'patterns of codependency and addiction to being and feeling loved'

Home sweet home: Leviss has been photographed several times in her native Arizona where she's been spending time 'becoming a better person' under the guidance of her parents (pictured December 24)
Emma Weymouth put on a leggy display in a wrap animal print beach dress as she arrived at celebrity hotspot Club 55 in Saint Tropez on Tuesday.

The British socialite and model, 37, looked incredible in the eye catching cover-up as she walked along the dock barefoot.

She toted her belongings around in a bold round woven bag which had 'St Tropez' written across the front in red letters.

Emma kept cool by pulling her long brunette tresses back in a low bun and shielded her face from the sun by donning a woven beach hat.

The beauty rocked a pair of stylish black sunglasses as she sat on the side of the tender as she was brought to shore.

Stunning: Emma Weymouth put on a leggy display in a wrap animal print beach dress as she arrived at celebrity hotspot Club 55 in Saint Tropez on Tuesday

Beach babe: The British socialite and model, 37, looked incredible in the eye catching number as she walked along the dock barefoot

The outing comes after Emma slipped into a polka dot cover-up atop of a black triangle bikini as she walked along the promenade in the south of France over the weekend.

Emma is on holiday with her husband Ceawlin Thynn - the 8th Marquess of Bath - and their two sons John, nine and Henry, seven.

The couple, married at their stunning home Longleat in June 2013 and welcomed their first child John, in October 2014.

Following a pregnancy struggle, the couple welcomed their second child, a son Henry, via a surrogate in Los Angeles in December 2016.

The boys' official titles are The Honourable John Alexander Ladi Thynn and The Honourable Henry Richard Isaac Thynn.

At the time, Emma told the Daily Mail: 'We are simply ecstatic. His arrival has completed our little family and brought us so much happiness.'

Ceawlin added: 'Never did I imagine that in West Hollywood I'd become father to John's little miracle baby brother.

'It's a wonder of modern science that the Longleat Bath family has been completed (for now at least) by Emma and I having a much-loved son, helped so crucially by a tremendous surrogate in California, to extend our family.'

Break: Emma is on holiday with her husband Ceawlin Thynn - the 8th Marquess of Bath (pictured in April)

On her wedding day, Emma became the first black marchioness in British history.

Earlier this year the couple purchased a property in West London once lived in by Winston Churchill for 18.5 million.

The Grade II-listed home was bought from a multi-millionaire divorcee whose former husband's Nazi-supporting grandfather was convicted at the Nuremberg trials.

Churchill lived there on-and-off from 1945 until his death - inside his bedroom - in 1965 at the age of 90 after suffering a stroke.

The grand home was last put on the market in 2016 for 28 million after undergoing extensive renovations.
Danni Menzies has revealed she's been left stranded in Spain after her flight home was cancelled due to the air traffic control chaos at UK airports.

The Place In The Sun star, 34, took to social media to voice her annoyance at the 'carnage' and 'madness' of the situation on Monday.

Thousands of Brits are stuck after 80 per cent of flights leaving the UK have been delayed, with disruptions continuing into the week.

Britain's National Air Traffic Services (NATS) said it experienced 'technical issues' that forced controllers to switch from an automatic system for landing and dispatching flights to a manual one, on one of the busiest days of the year.

Danni took to her Instagram Stories to share a photo of herself with her friends disembarking a plane, writing: 'Got on the plane for a 4hr chill... & then got off again...'

Oh dear! Danni Menzies has revealed she's been left stranded in Spain after her flight home was cancelled due to the air traffic control chaos at UK airports

Frustrated: The Place In The Sun star took to social media to voice her annoyance at the 'carnage' and 'madness' of the situation on Monday

She then posted a selfie of the group having some drinks as she said: 'And now we're stranded for the foreseeable...'

Danni then updated her followers to say: 'Just got offered a flight... in a WEEK!!!!!! WTF'.

She also took to Twitter to vent her frustrations and explain that one of her friends was pregnant and that she was due to attend her best friend's wedding on Friday.

She wrote: 'Flight cancelled today! After sitting on a plane for 5hrs. Airport carnage in Mallorca.

'Any idea on how I can get home asap with my heavily pregnant friend before Thursday as our best friend is getting married Friday!!! HELP!'

Trying to make light of the situation, Danni then asked: 'Anyone with a super yacht in Palma fancy giving us a lift across the pond? @British_Airways are paying.'

She also joked: 'Good job Im a regular at under packing and so very good at washing my pants in the sink.

'Cant say Ive ever delivered a baby though. Can you atleast get my pregnant pal home @British_Airways'.

Chaos: Danni took to her Instagram Stories to share a photo of herself with her friends disembarking a plane, writing: 'Got on the plane for a 4hr chill... & then got off again...'

On Tuesday, Danni gave her fans another update, revealing the extreme measures that her and her friends had had to take to try and get home.

She tweeted: 'Ive never experienced anything like this in all my travels! Madness. We have two pals on a ferry to Barca where theyll fly to Paris and then euro star to london.

'Two on standby cause shes preg. Ive booked a flight to Amsterdam Thurs then hopefully back to London.'

She added: 'Surely youd think extra flights would be put on for all the stranded people?!'

On Tuesday, officials were probing whether a single badly filed travel plan by a French airline was behind the air traffic control meltdown which resulted in thousands of cancelled flights during the worst outage in more than a decade.

Experts have warned that disruption is set to continue into the week despite the seven-hour 'network failure' that left thousands of holidaymakers stranded being 'remedied' on Monday afternoon.

Almost 1,000 flights were grounded and cancelled with several more delayed after NATS said it experienced 'technical issues'.

The mayhem happened on one of the busiest days of the year, when more than a million people were due to fly out of or land in the UK.

Annoyed: She also took to Twitter to vent her frustrations and explain that one of her friends was pregnant and that she was due to attend her best friend's wedding on Friday

Joking: Trying to make light of the situation, Danni then asked: 'Anyone with a super yacht in Palma fancy giving us a lift across the pond? @British_Airways are paying.'

In an extraordinary twist to the fiasco, sources have told The Times that the fault may have been caused by an incorrectly filed plan by a French airline.

MailOnline has contacted NATS for comment.

Passengers have been warned that they could face 'days of disruptions', which could last until Friday.

An easyJet pilot told passengers he had never seen a failure on this scale in 20 years of flying.

It's understood officials are aware of what caused the outage but not how it disabled the system. A cyber attack was also ruled out by NATS.

Cirium reported that more than 500 flights were cancelled by mid-afternoon, with hundreds more also aborted from knock-on effects.

It follows a 'huge failure' of the national air traffic control system which caused chaos on the August Bank Holiday Monday.

Britain's National Air Traffic Services (NATS) said it experienced 'technical issues' that forced controllers to switch from an automatic system for landing and dispatching flights to a manual one.

Fed up: On Tuesday, Danni gave her fans another update, revealing the extreme measures that her and her friends had had to take to try and get home

Nightmare! It follows a 'huge failure' of the national air traffic control system which caused chaos on the August Bank Holiday Monday

'Flight plans are being input manually which means we cannot process them at the same volume, hence we have applied traffic flow restrictions,' NATS said. A spokesman told MailOnline there was 'nothing to suggest a cyber attack'.

NATS said at 3.15pm it had 'identified and remedied' the technical issue affecting air traffic control systems and is working with airlines and airports to support the flights affected.

Transport Secretary Mark Harper said that despite the technical issue being resolved 'flights are still unfortunately affected'.

He tweeted that he would 'encourage all passengers to read the UK Civil Aviation Authority's guidance & be aware of their rights when flights are delayed or cancelled'.
Emily Ratajkowski showed off her stunning bikini body again.

The 32-year-old cover girl was posing in an off-white two-piece crochet swimsuit while in a lush back yard.

The suit was from her very own line, Inamorata, which means 'a woman with whom one is in love or has intimate relations,' according to Emily's website.

The images were posted to her Instagram account.

Emily is creeping up to the one years anniversary of from when she filed for divorce from Sylvester's dad, movie producer Sebastian Bear-McClard.

Swimsuit star: Emily Ratajkowski showed off her stunning bikini body in a new series of Instagram snaps shared on Tuesday morning

A (much) closer look: The 32-year-old cover girl was posing in an off-white two-piece swimsuit while in a lush back yard

The suit was a crochet two piece that had a beach shell design. Crochet is a process of creating textiles by using a crochet hook to interlock loops of yarn, thread, or strands of other materials.

It had string straps with the bottoms tying on the sides. The top had an open front with a tie in the middle.

The close pal of Irina Shayk added a bold gold necklace with a large round pendant.

Her reddish hair was worn down in soft waves as she had her bangs pushed to the side. Her lipstick was a light pink and she had on blush with sparkly eye shadow.

She was posing against a stone building which was likely located in Europe.

In early September in 2022 the star filed for divorce from Bear-McClard in Manhattan Supreme Court after 4 years of marriage.

The filing was contested, meaning the terms of the divorce have not been resolved between the spouses.

But the divorce was speedy.

There had been claims he cheated multiple times, but it has never been verified.

Since then Emily has been seen with Brad Pitt, Pete Davidson and Harry Styles.

A summer feel: The suit was a crochet two piece that had a beach shell design. Crochet is a process of creating textiles by using a crochet hook to interlock loops of yarn, thread, or strands of other materials

String bikini time: It had string straps with the bottoms tying on the sides. The top had an open front with a tie in the middle

Leggy lady by the lawn: The suit was from her very own line, Inamorata, which means 'a woman with whom one is in love or has intimate relations,' according to Emily's website

Wild about the girl: The images were posted to her Instagram account

On a walk: She was seen from the backside as she strolled on a stone courtyard

A closer look: Here her tummy was on display as the tied from the top hung down

Last week the Gone Girl actress posed in another bikini.

She left her brunette tresses down in a glamorous look and opted for a bronzed makeup look.

The brunette beauty is no stranger to an alluring photoshoot as she recently was seen in an All Stars Victoria's Secret Icon campaign.

Just last week, Ratajkowski joined the likes of Gisele Bundchen and Hailey Bieber to model 'The Icon' bra.

That glow: The model, 32, flashed her cleavage and toned frame in a string two-piece as she went barefoot

Love ring: The star was seen next to a large house made of stone

Life in the slow lane: Here is a look at her backside; the bottoms had a slight thong vibe

A black-and-white video released by the lingerie brand on Wednesday also showed former Victoria's Secret Angels Naomi Campbell, Adriana Lima, and Candice Swanepoel as campaign models.

In the picture and video, she modeled a black push-up bra and cheeky bottoms with a flattering high-rise strap design.

Over the lingerie set, she wore an open robe that she played with in the campaign clip.

Emily modeled the Push-Up Demi Bra which she paired with strappy panties and a short, open black robe.

'VS ICONS,' she wrote in her caption before crediting her team. 'Honored to be included with the likes of @gisele @naomi @haileybieber @palomija @adutakech @adrianalima @candiceswanepoel @jilla.tequila in this beautiful campaign shot by Mikael Jansson and styled by Camilla Nickerson'.

Bottom look: She also shared this image of her pert backside

In Italy? She seemed to be on vacation; in this image a man holds her son

The dude that lost his supermodel wife: . Emily is creeping up to the one years anniversary of from when she filed for divorce from Sylvester's dad, movie producer Sebastian Bear-McClard. Seen in 2020

Emily rose to fame after she appeared in Robin Thicke's Blurred Lines music video ten years ago.

She began her modeling career as a teenager growing up in Encinitas, California as the only child of an art teacher father and a writer mother.

Ratajkowski's debut book of essays, titled My Body, made her a New York Times bestselling author in 2021.

In the literary effort, she alleged she was groped by Thicke while on the set of his video and shared other essays about being exploited in the modeling world.

On her podcast she's welcomed a star-studded lineup of guests, including Julia Fox, Winnie Harlow, Troye Sivan, and Esther Perel.

Incredible: Ratajkowski showed off her stunning bikini body last week as well

Emily also discusses being a single mother and dating again after filing for divorce from her ex-husband Sebastian in 2022.

Since the split she has been romantically linked to Pete Davidson, Harry Styles, and Eric Andre.

The star spoke to Elle UK last year and opened up about raising her son.

'You sacrifice so much of your identity when you become a mother,' she admitted.

'Now, for the first time, I am enjoying the world more. And yet now I have this incredible responsibility of raising a child. But one thing I have decided is how I want Sly to think about women. I want him to have an example of a mom who is happy.'
Philip Schofield has reportedly hired a team of wealth management accountants to look after his finances after he admitted his 'beloved' TV career is over.

Records at Companies House suggest that the This Morning star's financial affairs will now be managed by Sedulo, a London-based firm that helps clients with a high net worth grow their wealth.

The presenter admitted he would likely never work in TV again, admitting in an interview he had 'lost everything' following the exposure of his 'unwise but not illegal' affair with a much younger colleague, plunging ITV into a crisis.

After he admitted he lied to his long-term co-presenter Holly Willoughby, the broadcaster and his talent agency YMU he dramatically resigned from his This Morning role.

YMU subsequently dropped the host, adding in a statement that 'honesty and integrity are core values' for its business and 'talent management is a relationship built entirely on trust'.

Philip Schofield has reportedly hired a team of wealth management accountants to look after his finances after he admitted his 'beloved' TV career is over

Schofield admitted previously that he would likely never work in TV again, admitting in an interview he had 'lost everything'

Sedulo couldhelp preserve Schofield's huge fortune that he made from decades working in television.

His real estate firm - Fistral Properties Ltd - is registered with the company's London office, and will likely become his primary source of income now, the Mirror reports.

On Sedulo's website it claims to be defined by its 'financial and wealth management'.

It tells prospective clients: 'Our vision is a service that is more professional, more personal, and more efficient  a service that is delivered by talented, dedicated, and highly qualified people who share this visionalways aiming to reduce your stress and give you peace of mind.

'Whether youre a successful entrepreneur or business owner or youre starting out on your own, its never too early to seek sound advice. Whatever stage of your business journey youre at, were here to support you.

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Schofield's business affairs were previously managed by YMU who helped craft his career and make him millions.

In recent weeks, rumours have been swirling that the fallen presenter was 'in talks with senior TalkTV bosses about a role on the channel' alongside his friend Vanessa Feltz - who is was pictured having dinner with earlier this month.

The former ITV star has become much of a recluse since he stood down from his role after admitting to lying about an affair with a much younger colleague

Schofield and his co-presenter of 13 years, Holly Willoughby, pictured with the man he had an affair with

And, according to a new report, Schofield is set to create his own tell-all memoir about his version of events after being approached by 'several book publishers'.

It has been said he hopes to 'draw a line' under what happened in what could be an 'incredibly compelling account' that is fully supported by his family.

A source told The Mirror: 'Phil has had several approaches by book publishers - including Hodder & Stoughton - about a new memoir, in which he talks more fully about This Morning, Holly, and how his career at ITV imploded.

'He made it clear in the conversation that he would like the chance to tell his story in full, and in some ways to draw a line under what has happened, but that he would not do so without the approval of his family.

'Stephanie and the girls have been his lifeline all this time, while he's been going through hell in private. So any further discussions are on hold until he has spoken to them, and they are happy with him going ahead.'

Meanwhile sources close to Schofield said his friends are trying to encourage him to lead a 'fulfilling life' away from showbusiness.

One told MailOnline: 'Phillip has been very, very down recently. He doesn't know how he is going to work again.

'He is pretty sure that he is done. He keeps saying he will never work again. It's devastating for him to realise but he also knows that there is not a lot he can do about it.

'He doesn't know who will take him, he knows there is no way back to ITV or the BBC.'

According to a new report, Schofield is set to create his own tell-all memoir about his version of events after being approached by 'several book publishers'

In recent weeks rumours have been swirling that Schofield was 'in talks with senior TalkTV bosses about a role on the channel'

The comments echoed what Schofield said himself when he broke his silence in an interview with the BBC in the weeks following the scandal.

He said at the time: 'I'm not in television any more, I don't know what I am even remotely  if I get through this. I don't know even remotely how I move forward  what am I going to do with my days?'

'I did something very wrong and then I lied about it consistently and you can't live with that. How do you live with that?' he added.

Schofield admitted that the affair had rocked ITV, while Mary Bekhait, the CEO of his former agency said at the time: 'Honesty and integrity are core values for YMU's whole business, defining everything we do. Talent management is a relationship based entirely on trust.

'This week, we have learned important new information about our client Phillip Schofield.

'These facts contradicted what Phillip had previously told YMU, as well as the external advisors we had brought in to support him. As a result, on Thursday we agreed to part company with Phillip, with immediate effect.'

Schofield's representatives told MailOnline 'so far as I know these reports are nonsense' adding the presenter had 'no comment'.

MailOnline has contacted Sedulo.
There's been quite a high turnover for staff on the second season of Below Deck Down Under as Captain Jason Chambers fired deckhand Adam Vincent Kodra during Monday's episode titled 'The Wheel of Misfortune.'

The 34-year-old Brooklyn native - whose only experience was on commercial vessels - accidentally dropped the anchor while the 47-year-old super-yacht Northern Sun was cruising at full speed (13 knots) near Green Island.

'You're definitely a good bloke, you're definitely good in the breach, but on deck I don't think you have the experience for super yachts and that anchor being dropped underway is kind of where I draw the line,' the Australian 50-year-old said.

'We're gonna let you go and we're gonna bring in a lead deckhand [Luka Brunton]. I just need someone with a lot more experience.'

Adam replied: 'I apologize for even creating that for the time that I was here, but thank you so much for giving me the opportunity.'

'The Wheel of Misfortune': There's been quite a high turnover for staff on the second season of Below Deck Down Under as Captain Jason Chambers (L) fired deckhand Adam Vincent Kodra (R) during Monday's episode

Oops! The 34-year-old Brooklyn native - whose only experience was on commercial vessels - accidentally dropped the anchor while the 47-year-old super-yacht Northern Sun was cruising at full speed (13 knots) near Green Island

Later in his confessional, Kodra confessed: 'I can't believe it. I was learning a lot and I was having a lot of fun. It just sucks that it's getting cut short. I completely messed up. You don't have anyone to blame but yourself.'

And while the hit Bravo series showed the skateboarding enthusiast embraced by four castmates in a quick farewell, third stewardess Margot Sisson clarified that the audience missed most of his tearful exit.

'I feel like it's being shown as though we were all just like, "Mmm bummer. Bye!" When really, I was devastated. We were all devastated,' the 29-year-old Seattle native admitted Monday night via Instastory.

'And what you didn't see was the whole ceremony that we had saying goodbye. Adam actually gathered all of us in the f***ing engine room or whatever and he stood in the middle and he went around each and every person saying what he loved about all of us individually. Everybody was crying.

'Harry [Van Vliet] and I were like ugly crying into each other. It was heartbreaking. And this is nothing against Jason's decision, like, I trust that man with my life honestly. But I think it's important for you guys to know that it was a much harder and sadder goodbye then what's been shown.'

On Tuesday, second officer Joao Franco shared an Instagram tribute to Adam stressing that the conversation to let him go was definitely 'a little longer than the few seconds' depicted onscreen.

'Adam, my boy you are scholar and gentleman. You held your own and took away only the positives of this! Just incredible!' the 33-year-old Zimbabwe native wrote.

'These qualities did not escape Jason and he didnt let it go unnoticed right until the end and that in itself speaks miles. Driving a boat is easy. The true challenge is being assertive while also trying to guide a team, all the while preserving the respect of the crew. Both Jason and Adam did quite fine.'

The Australian 50-year-old said: 'You're definitely a good bloke, you're definitely good in the breach, but on deck I don't think you have the experience for super yachts and that anchor being dropped underway is kind of where I draw the line'

Chambers continued: 'We're gonna let you go and we're gonna bring in a lead deckhand [Luka Brunton]. I just need someone with a lot more experience'

Adam replied: 'I apologize for even creating that for the time that I was here, but thank you so much for giving me the opportunity'

Later in his confessional, Kodra confessed: 'I can't believe it. I was learning a lot and I was having a lot of fun. It just sucks that it's getting cut short. I completely messed up. You don't have anyone to blame but yourself'

'Love the s*** out of you!' And while the hit Bravo series showed the skateboarding enthusiast embraced by four castmates in a quick farewell, third stewardess Margot Sisson (pictured) clarified that the audience missed most of his tearful exit

The 29-year-old Seattle native admitted Monday night via Instastory: 'Adam went around each and every person saying what he loved about all of us individually. Everybody was crying. Harry [Van Vliet] and I were like ugly crying into each other. It was heartbreaking. And this is nothing against Jason's decision, like, I trust that man with my life honestly. But I think it's important for you guys to know that it was a much harder and sadder goodbye then what's been shown'

'You held your own and took away only the positives of this!' On Tuesday, second officer Joao Franco (L) shared an Instagram tribute to Adam stressing that the conversation to let him go was definitely 'a little longer than the few seconds' depicted onscreen

Kodra also received Instastory shout-outs from deckhand Harry Van Vliet and chef Tzarina Mace-Ralph, who gushed: 'I cried a million tears when you left! Stay who you are! You are perfect'

2018 family portrait: The US Merchant Marine Academy grad originally joined Below Deck Down Under in order to raise money to buy a home for his mother and younger siblings in New York

Adam said: 'I never really did anything like this before. I knew it was going to be a big shock when I came into it. I learned an insane amount. My next plan is to hopefully get up to captain in the commercial world, get my mom and kids in a house. And then, after that's done, I'll probably go back to yachting'

'Laura, I got a message from producers telling you to come down': On the shocking August 10th episode - titled 'The Turnover Day' - second stewardess Laura Bileskaine was fired for climbing into Kodra's bunkbed to give him a seductive massage after he explicitly told her he was not interested in her sexually

'Can you f*** off for a second?' The Latvian 31-year-old was also let go for defending bosun Luke Jones (R), who was also fired for climbing into heavily-intoxicated Margot's (L) bunkbed while naked despite the cameraman ordering him to leave and speak with producers

Kodra replied via Instastory: 'Thank you for the guidance my brotha.'

The US Merchant Marine Academy grad also received Instastory shout-outs from deckhand Harry Van Vliet and chef Tzarina Mace-Ralph, who gushed: 'I cried a million tears when you left! Stay who you are! You are perfect.'

Adam originally joined Below Deck Down Under in order to raise money to buy a home for his mother and younger siblings in New York.

'I never really did anything like this before. I knew it was going to be a big shock when I came into it. I learned an insane amount,' Kodra said.

'My next plan is to hopefully get up to captain in the commercial world, get my mom and kids in a house. And then, after that's done, I'll probably go back to yachting.'

On the shocking August 10th episode - titled 'The Turnover Day' - second stewardess Laura Bileskaine was fired for climbing into Adam's bunkbed to give him a seductive massage after he explicitly told her he was not interested in her sexually.

The Latvian 31-year-old was also let go for defending bosun Luke Jones, who was also fired for climbing into heavily-intoxicated Margot's bunkbed while naked despite the cameraman ordering him to leave and speak with producers.

Catch more drama aboard the 167ft-long former Japanese fisheries research vessel in Below Deck Down Under, which returns with two new episodes next Monday on Bravo.
Hurricane Idalia was set to bring an unprecedented and life-threatening storm surge to Floridas Big Bend region as it was upgraded to a Category 2 storm Tuesday evening.

Forecasters say it will mark the first-ever hurricane to reach the Apalachee Bay, near the capital Tallahassee, in more than 170 years of recorded weather data.

With sustained winds topping 100 mph, Idalia was moving north to northeast at 16 mph, and it was expected to become a brutal Category 3 storm as it roared toward the Sunshine State, the National Weather Service said.

Have all preparations completed by this evening. This is a life-threatening, dangerous situation! the service added Tuesday.

It is forecast to reach the Gulf Coast of Florida within the hurricane warning area by Wednesday, but residents could start feeling the impacts of the storm, like intense winds and rainfall, as early as Tuesday night. Meteorologists also warned that the storm could spawn several tornadoes before it finally makes landfall in the states Big Bend region.

A man rides a bicycle in a flooded area of Batabano, Mayabeque Province, Cuba, on August 28, 2023, as Tropical Storm Idalia approaches the western tip of the island nation.

A storm surge triggered by Idalia could also force water to jump up to 12 feet in parts of northern Florida, while heavy rain will also likely result in flash flooding Tuesday into Wednesday across portions of Floridas Panhandle and west coast as well as in southern Georgia before the storm starts striking eastern portions of the Carolinas on Wednesday into Thursday.

Meteorologists predicted between 4 to 8 inches of rain could fall from Tuesday to Thursday in those places.

To put this system into the historical context, there are NO major hurricanes in the historical dataset going back to 1851 that have tracked into Apalachee Bay. None. Dont mess around with this, the National Weather Service added.

Over the weekend, Florida residents loaded up on sandbags while others fled their homes ahead of the hurricane, which would be the first to strike the state this season. The National Guard was also on standby Tuesday morning and evacuations were underway in 21 counties with mandatory orders for some residents in eight of those counties. Many of the notices were for people in low-lying and coastal areas, as well as those living in structures such as mobile homes, recreational vehicles and boats, and those who would be vulnerable in a power outage.

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis warned of a major impact to the state.

The property  we can rebuild someones home, DeSantis said during a news conference Monday. You cant unring the bell, though, if somebody stays in harms way and does battle with Mother Nature.

Tropical Storm Idalia strengthened as it neared Cuba and the abnormally hot waters of the Gulf of Mexico on Monday, with forecasters predicting it could become a major hurricane before roaring ashore in Florida this week.

Most school districts along the Gulf Coast have already said they would close Tuesday and Wednesday because of the hurricane. Several colleges and universities, including the University of Florida in Gainesville, followed suit and shuttered their campuses.

With News Wire Services
Jennifer Garner showed off her impressively sculpted arms during her run through her Brentwood, California neighborhood on Monday.

The Elektra star, 51, looked super fit and toned and as she was spotted running and waiting at stop lights.

Jennifer wore grey leggings and a black tank top with a blue ball cap from her series The Last Thing He Told Me, which her pal Reese Witherspoon produced, as she got her workout in.

The mom of three looked even fitter than she did back in the days when she was playing double agent Sydney Bristow on Alias.

She leads an active lifestyle and credited that as the reason she is still slim and fit in her 50s during an appearance on The Drew Barrymore Show in April.

Impressive arms: Jennifer Garner showed off her impressively sculpted arms before going on a run through her Brentwood, California neighborhood on Monday

Run girl: The Elektra star, 51, looked super fit and toned and as she was spotted running and waiting at stop lights

'What I do in the morning is I work out,' she told host Barrymore, who looked surprised, and replied: 'Every day?! Oh God.'

Jennifer insisted that 'hard cardio' is the key to staying trim and fit.

The star believes that daily body movement is also incredible for the mind and spirit.

As for her personal life, the mom of Violet, 17, Seraphina, 13, and Samuel, 11, with ex-husband Ben Affleck, 51, has been in an on/off relationship with John Miller, 41, since 2018.

Garner and Miller keep their relationship low key and under the radar.

He is an attorney and the CEO of CaliBurger, a burger restaurant chain with 50 locations.

'She loves how little he cares for the limelight or the whole Hollywood scenester stuff,' a source told Us Weekly last year.

The source added that Garner and Miller are: 'Very different from Ben and J.Lo's relationship in that way.'

Cardio day: Jennifer wore grey leggings and a black tank top with a blue ball cap as she got her workout in

Pal: Her friend Reese Witherspoon, seen in April, was the producer on Garner's show The Last Thing He Told Me

'You'll never see them ham it up for the cameras or fixate about what events to attend together, it's just not their style.

'They're happier being a regular, under-the-radar couple and don't need anyone else's validation to know they're meant to be together,' the source explained.

'Jen brings out the best in John, and he is the happiest he has probably ever been. It's a loving, healthy relationship.'

The 13 Going On 30 star was also previously married to Scott Foley, 51, from 2000 to 2004.
Pierce Brosnan looked as if he might be ready for a tropical vacation as he arrived at the airport in Los Angeles Tuesday.

The Outlaws star, 70, donned a wide brimmed straw hat as he and wife Keely Shaye Smith got out of their car.

The Black Adam actor looked dapper in a navy blue button down shirt and black jeans. The Cinderella star's full head of silver hair was brushed back and his beard was closely cropped.

Keely, 59, looked chic as she showed off her curves in a a black and white polka dot frock with a belted waist. The former model's dark hair was styled straight. She accessorized with a filmy white scarf around her neck and a small black shoulder bag.

The two are so VIP they barely had to touch their luggage as attendants stepped in to assist them.

Dapper: Pierce Brosnan, 70, looked dapper in a navy blue button down shirt and black jeans. The Cinderella star's full head of silver hair was brushed back and his beard was closely cropped

When he has not been working on a film, Pierce has been focusing on his art.

The Mamma Mia! star was honored with a solo exhibition entitled So Many Dreams in May.

The show included 50 paintings and 100 drawings.

Pierce got his start as an artist at age 16 in London, when he was hired as a trainee by a commercial illustration company.

'I was this young man with aspirations to do album covers,' the painter told ARTnews.

'Id found my passion. For the first time in my life, I was surrounded by artists. They only let me draw the straight lines' he explained. 'Id make cups of tea and water the spider plants. I was so happy.'

The Remington Steele star put his art aside as his acting career took off.

He turned to it again for solace after his first wife, Cassandra Harris, was diagnosed with ovarian cancer in 1986.

Chic: Pierce's wife, Keely Shay Smith, 59, looked chic as she showed off her curves in a a black and white polka dot frock with a belted waist. The former model's dark hair was styled straight

Tropical destination?: The actor looked as if he might be ready for a tropical vacation as he arrived at the airport in Los Angeles Tuesday. He donned a wide brimmed straw hat as he and Keely got out of their car

Out-law: Pierce is currently starring as a sketchy father of the bride in the Netflix comedy The Out-Laws, seen here with co-star Ellen Barkin

Fast Charlie: Pierce will be seen on the big screen next in Fast Charlie, starring as a hitman who needs proof of a kill before he can be paid. The action flick co-stars James Caan and Morena Baccarin and is set to open in November

The For Your Eyes Only actress died of the disease in 1991.

When asked about to compare acting to painting, the European Film Awards winner explained, 'Its a much more insular feeling, to show your work as an artist, as a painter,'

'There are always moments of doubt when you expose yourself in that way, but as in life, all roads lead to "if not now, when?'

Pierce will be seen on the big screen next in Fast Charlie, starring as a hitman who needs proof of a kill before he can be paid.

The action flick co-stars James Caan and Morena Baccarin and is set to open in November.
Another legendary EastEnders character has made a surprise return in flashback scenes from 2014.

During Tuesday night's episode, Ricky Norwood reprised his role as the much-loved Fatboy Chubb after getting murdered eight years ago.

Fatboy died in grisly circumstances in the Christmas 2015 storyline, with the character getting killed in a car in a case of mistaken identity.

He died off-screen after Ronnie Mitchell arranged for her enemy Vincent Hubbard to be sent to the car crusher, but Fatboy was accidentally trapped in the car boot and killed instead.

In the latest EastEnders episode, Cindy Beale (Michelle Collins) came face-to-face with her ex George Knight (Colin Salom).

Fatboy is back! Another legendary EastEnders character has made a surprise return in flashback scenes from 2014

Iconic: While chatting in the car, Cindy and DCI Mary Nicholls were briefly interrupted by Arthur 'Fatrboy' Chubb

Cindy finally told George the truth and viewers were treated to flashback scenes set in Marbella in Spain in 2014.

The flashback showed her leaving him and her daughters after learning Lucy, her daughter, had died.

During a secret visit back to the square, Cindy was seen watching Ian (Adam Woodyatt) from afar, as he grieved the horrific loss.

Cindy was then approached by DCI Mary Nicholls, her witness protection handler, who forced her to get in her car.

While chatting in the car, they were briefly interrupted by Arthur 'Fatboy' Chubb.

He asked for the time and began speaking about meeting his friends and getting a kebab.

He also mentioned his 'pensioner' friend and landlady Dorothy 'Dot' Branning (the late June Brown).

Fans were thrilled with the characters return, with one penning on Twitter: 'This flashback story is so good!'

Another said: 'I miss Fatboy!'

A third added: 'Absolutely jaw dropping ending tonight. Oh and Fatboy, he ain't dead trust me'

Ricky was suspended from EastEnders in 2014 after a video was leaked of the star allegedly smoking marijuana and performing a sex act on Skype.

BBC bosses decided to suspend Ricky from filming for two months when the pictures of him first came to light, while the actor apologised for his actions.

Ricky had starred in online spin-off show E20 before finding fame on the long-running soap.

After his exit from the soap, Ricky revealed that he suffered from depression and addressed his struggles on Celebrity Big Brother back in 2016.

Funny: He asked for the time and began speaking about meeting his friends and getting a kebab

Fans were thrilled with the characters return, with one penning on Twitter: 'This flashback story is so good!'

Shocking: Fatboy died in grisly circumstances in the Christmas 2015 storyline, with the character getting killed in a car in a case of mistaken identity

Revealing that he didn't know at the time he was suffering from depression, he confessed that his anxiety was so high that he didn't want to leave the house.

'I went into deep depression,' he explained. 'I didn't know it was depression. I didn't want to leave my house, I had all the blinds drawn.'

He added that despite leaving the soap after the scandal, he was pleased with the work he had achieved and what could come in the future.

'I was happy. I was only supposed to be there for three months, I was there just under six years,' he said.
Adrian Grenier was every inch the doting dad as he stepped out with his baby son Seiko and wife Jordan in NYC on Tuesday.

The Entourage star, 46, who announced the arrival of his first child with Jordan, 29, in June, wore a blue and green floral patterned shirt as he pushed a pram, while his partner carried their three-month-old.

Adrian paired his vibrant shirt with shorts and sliders as he chatted with Jordan.

The couple's baby boy - who was seen for the first time on the outing - looked cute in a baby blue hat.

Jordan and Adrian tied the knot in an impromptu ceremony in front of close friends while on vacation in Morocco last June.

Family outing: Adrian Grenier was every inch the doting dad as he stepped out with his baby son Seiko and wife Jordan in NYC on Tuesday

While the couple didn't previously announce they were expecting, Jordan took to Instagram to share baby bump snaps from their home in Austin, Texas.

'We are happy to announce the arrival of our son who was born a few weeks ago,' Jordan began in her statement.

'In an instant Our hearts have expanded beyond infinite space,' she added in the caption.

'We are cultivating our world now to preserve his innocence, his magic, and to leave enough quiet space to hear and encourage his roar,' she added.

'We couldnt be more blissed out, spending the next weeks in divine solitude, mother, father and child,' Jordan continued.

'We want to make sure to give our baby an easeful transition from spirit world to this one,' she added, before revealing the child's name.

'All rejoice this gift to the world, Seiko Aurelius Grenier, our exquisite golden one, welcome earth side!' Jordan concluded.

Doting: The Entourage star, 46, who announced the arrival of his first child with Jordan, 29, in June , wore a blue and green floral patterned shirt as he pushed a pram, while his partner carried their three-month-old

Grenier shared the same photos and caption on his Instagram on Thursday as well, welcoming his son.

The Entourage star also took to Instagram last July to speak about his marriage to Jordan.

'Ive always been romantic. Since I was born Ive had a pure vision of love. My essential core dreamed of one day being bonded with another. In fact I declared to my mother at the mere age of 8, 'Mom, I am a one woman man!'" he began.

'But like in any great love story I got off track. I was blinded and numb, lost in shadow,' he continued.

'Afraid, cynical, surrounded by so many, but alone. You came into my life, delivered a cosmic wallop upside my soul, and I was moved back to love,' he added.

While the couple didn't previously announce they were expecting, Jordan took to Instagram to share baby bump snaps from their home in Austin, Texas . 'We are happy to announce the arrival of our son who was born a few weeks ago' she wrote

'You shook me awake, and I once again rememberedI am indeed a one woman man. And you are my one woman,' he concluded.

Grenier is best known for playing Vincent Chase in HBO's Entourage, which ran for eight seasons and spawned a feature film.

He most recently starred in Cipher and Clickbait.
Love Island star Molly Smith left very little to the imagination in her latest Instagram post as she shared some throwback snaps from a Miami shoot.

The reality personality, 29, flashed plenty of underboob in a tiny white top, which she teamed with a pair of printed bikini bottoms, which were tied at the hip.

Molly's racy beach look showcased her incredibly toned abs, as she flashed a series of poses for the camera during the nighttime photoshoot.

The Manchester native wore her blonde locks wet and opted for a full face make-up to add some glamour to the beach look.

She captioned the series of images: 'Miami archives'.

Beach babe: Love Island star Molly Smith left very little to the imagination in her latest Instagram post as she shared some throwback snaps from a Miami shoot

Wow! The reality personality, 29, flashed plenty of underboob in a tiny white top, which she teamed with a pair of printed bikini bottoms, which were tied at the hip

Her latest snaps come after Molly showcased her incredible figure as she gave fans a glimpse at some of the outfits she wore on her recent Ibiza holiday.

She enjoyed a sun-soaked getaway to the party island and ensured she dressed for the occasion, stripping down to a number of different bikinis.

Sharing a montage video on Instagram on Tuesday, she captioned her post: 'Some holiday outfit inspo... Outfits I wore in Ibiza.'

Television personality Molly put on a busty display as she was first seen wearing a linden blue crinkle shirt by Monday Swimwear over the top of crochet bikini by the same brand.

She was then seen wearing a yellow Carina dress by Generation Outcast Clothing before changing into a pink crochet dress by Ego Official.

Elsewhere, Molly made the most of her hourglass figure as she donned a blue Juniper dress by Oh Polly which featured a low cut neckline, and cut away detail and a thigh-high split to the side.

The reality star also gave a glimpse at her toned stomach as she wore a striped knitted beach dress and matching bikini top by Jaded London.

Glam: Molly's racy beach look showcased her incredibly toned abs, as she flashed a series of poses for the camera during the nighttime photoshoot

Looking good: Molly showcased her incredible figure as she gave fans a glimpse at some of the outfits she wore on her recent Ibiza holiday

Dressed to impress: She enjoyed a sun-soaked getaway to the party island and ensured she dressed for the occasion

It comes after Molly recently said she was left 'homeless' after her flight was cancelled during a trip to Miami.

Molly broke down in tears as she updated fans on her airport nightmare on her Instagram Stories.

She explained how her flight had been delayed - and then cancelled - from Miami to Orlando.

Consequently, she missed her connecting flight from her next destination.

This left her with no choice but to stay another night in Miami. But she had nowhere to go.

Captioning the video, she penned 'I've honestly had enough', as she told followers: 'So just when I thought it couldn't get any worse... I've been crying so ignore me. It's tipped me over the edge now, I've hit a wall.

Summer ready: Molly put on a busty display as she was first seen wearing a linden blue crinkle shirt by Monday Swimwear over the top of crochet bikini by the same brand

Fashion show: Sharing a montage video on Instagram on Tuesday, she captioned her post: 'Some holiday outfit inspo... Outfits I wore in Ibiza'

In style: She was then seen wearing a yellow Carina dress by Generation Outcast Clothing before changing into a pink crochet dress by Ego Official

Happy couple: Molly was seen wearing the dress as she posed alongside partner Callum Jones, who she met on Love Island in 2020

Standing out from the crowd: Molly ensured she caught the eye of onlookers as she wore a bright pink crochet dress by Ego Official

Strike a pose: The garment featured a plunging neckline and cut away detail at either side, giving a glimpse at her toned midriff

Fashion focus: The colourful mini dress was backless and she wore a bright pink string bikini to match

Accessorising: She carried a multi-coloured crocheted bag with her packed full of belongings for a visit to the beach

'So I booked a hotel because I didn't get my voucher sent through to me for the cancelled flight, like I did last night. So I had no where to stay.

'So I thought do you know what I'll just book a hotel, which was on the list that they were offering. Managed to finally find my bags.

'So I ring them to find out where the shuttle is and say can you come pick me up? And they basically said they've not got a reservation, even though I've got the confirmation and the money's come out my account. But no.

'There's no reservation under my name so it's like half two in the morning and I'm still stuck at the airport.'

Coming back on her social media the next morning, Molly admitted she was 'feeling a bit more optimistic' as she had gathered with other passengers to drive to Orlando instead.

The television personality rose to fame when she met boyfriend Callum Jones on the ITV2 dating show Love Island in 2020.

Molly and Callum are one of Love Island's major success stories, meeting on the first-ever winter edition of the show, where they left before the finale.

The couple moved into a lavish four-bedroom house in Manchester that November after meeting on the show.

Sensational: Elsewhere, Molly made the most of her hourglass figure as she donned a blue Juniper dress by Oh Polly

Fashion focus: The dress featured a low cut neckline, and cut away detail and a thigh-high split to the side

Sheer beauty: She wore a blue necklace to match her dress as she filmed herself walking in her outfit for her video

Fashionista: The reality star also gave a glimpse at her toned stomach as she wore a striped knitted beach dress and matching bikini top by Jaded London

Keeping cool: Molly cooled off in the shade as she posed for some pictures in the dress to share on social media

Stand-out style: Meanwhile, Molly wore a deep V neck asymmetric mini dress by Murci, which she teamed with a gold handbag

The couple recently celebrated their third anniversary together as they both shared a gallery of snaps to Instagram to mark the occasion.

Former scaffolder Callum has previously revealed that he can see himself marrying model Molly and potentially having children together.

They have gone from strength to strength - but it wasn't always smooth sailing for the couple, as their get-together caused a stir on the ITV2 show.

Callum entered the show as one of the original contestants and connected with Shaugna Phillips at the beginning.
Christina Hall and her husband Joshua Hall were seen in a family photo on Tuesday.

The 40-year-old blonde beauty and her new 42-year-old spouse made the rare move of posing with all three of her children.

The TV star has three kids.

She has daughter Taylor, 12, and son Brayden, seven, with ex-husband Tarek El Moussa, who is now wed to Heather Rae El Moussa of Selling Sunset fame.

And Christina also has son Hudson, three, with ex-husband Ant Anstead, who now romances Renee Zellweger.

'Family vacation last week. Not ready (but ready) for kids to go back to school,' she said in her caption.

The fam! Christina Hall and her husband Joshua Hall were seen in a family photo on Tuesday. The 40-year-old blonde beauty and her new 42-year-old spouse made the rare move of posing with all three of her children

The eldest: The TV star has three kids. She has daughter Taylor, 12, and son Brayden, seven, with ex-husband Tarek El Moussa, who is now wed to Heather Rae El Moussa of Selling Sunset fame

Tiny: And Christina also has son Hudson, three, with ex-husband Ant Anstead, who now romances Renee Zellweger

It looked like the family was on vacation in the tropics.

In July Christina and Joshua were seen by a pool.

She had on a multicolored patchwork bikini top and sarong mini skirt that was knotted on the side while he had on long shorts in the same pastel hues as his wife's.

The reality TV stars are currently on the show Christina in The Country which is filmed around their Tennessee farm.

This comes after the Flip Or Flop veteran and her spouse were seen at the Barbie premiere in Los Angeles.

In the new photo shared to Instagram Christina looked to be in the best shape of her life.

She was showing off her toned tummy in the triangle top that had a string closure around her neck. The design expert's skirt was quite short and rode low on her hips.

Her legs looked tanned and toned as the mother of three wore white slides that said Christian Dior on the top in blue.

With all three kids: They were last seen with all three kids in 2022

The TV star added white framed sunglasses with her very long blonde hair worn down in soft beach waves.

Her better half had on board shirts that had a black tie in the center as he added black and gray Louis Vuitton slides.

He added a cap worn backwards an a pair of dark tinted shades while adding a silver necklace and gold watch.

His many various tattoos were on display as he had several over his chest and down his arms. And there were many more down one leg.

Two cute: They were matching in July as they spent some time in the sun

A closer look 1: In the new photo shared to Instagram Christina looked to be in the best shape of her life. She was showing off her toned tummy in the triangle top that had a string closure around her neck. The design expert's skirt was quite short and rode low on her hips

This comes after they hit the Barbie premiere.

The home improvement specialist looked youthful in a plunging pastel-colored shimmering evening gown that made the most of her tiny frame.

Hall looked like a real-life Barbie as she wore her white bleach blonde hair down in soft Malibu beach waves.

And she had a sun-kissed body as she looked like she spent the day by her swimming pool.

On her arm was her husband, Joshua Hall.

The Orange County, California native had her nails painted a Barbie pink color and she wore diamond jewelry for added glam.

The ex of Tarek El Moussa's dress was a showstopper as it had pink, green and blue over a light pink satin background.

There was also silver sequins in a criss-cross pattern.

And the neck had a halter strappy theme with the bottom showing a mermaid finish with a very high slit up one toned leg.

She added high heeled-silver cage shoes and a toothy smile for her very glam pink carpet appearance.

Her husband took to Instagram to wish her a happy birthday.

Hall looks heavenly: Hall turned 40-years-old a week ago. The Flip Or Flop veteran looked half her age as she celebrated the milestone at the Barbie premiere in Los Angeles on July 9

With her love: On her arm was her husband who wore a dark suit with white sneakers

'Happy 40th Birthday to my absolute stunner of a wife!' shared the hunky TV star who appears with her on her shows.

'This woman has accomplished so much, inspired so many and continues to impress me daily.

'I cant say enough about what an absolute force she is and what she is capable of.

'Christina is about to make her 40s the best decade of her life and looking better than ever while doing it!

'Im a lucky man and thank my lucky stars that she chose me to take this ride with her that is now our life. Ride or die baby, love you more than anything .

And she made a post too.

'Had the best 40th birthday celebration thanks to my husband and best friend,' Christina wrote on Instagram of her spouse.

'I walked into the most incredible party where they thought of everything and made all my champagne dreams come true.

'I feel very lucky to have such amazing people in my life.

'Going into this new decade my goal is to slow the f*** down,' she continued. 'Enjoy the small moments and not rush through life. Take it easier on myself and mostly have fun and enjoy the ride.'

Hall's party took place at the Newport Beach, California mansion she shares with her husband and her kids.

She posted pictures and video clips of her day and night on her Instagram Story, revealing that Josh surprised her with the bash.

'We got kicked out of the house so Josh could set something up special,' she captioned a post of Brayden and Taylor on a balcony in their swimsuits at the Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach resort in Dana Point, California.
A caller in to the Kyle and Jackie O Show has revealed the most stolen item in Australian supermarkets.

The woman, an undercover 'loss prevention officer' who works for a major supermarket chain, stunned hosts Kyle Sandilands and Jackie 'O' Henderson with the sought after item.

Kyle initially guessed that the most pinched product would be razor blades, given their relatively high value.

Jackie meanwhile predicted tampons would be what thieves most often targeted.

However the caller stunned them both when she revealed the item was actually barbecue chickens.

'Where are they putting [the chicken] to steal it?' asked a perplexed Jackie.

'Two of the the ones that I stopped [put it] down their pants,' said the undercover officer, who is in charge of stopping in-store thieves.

'Holy s**t, a whole chicken!' exclaimed Jackie, before Kyle asked what sort of pants the thieves wore to allow the theft.

'Trackies. Yeah, big trackies,' she replied.

A caller in to the Kyle and Jackie O Show has revealed the most stolen item in Australian supermarkets. Pictured: Jackie 'O' Henderson

However the caller stunned them both when she revealed the item was actually barbecue chickens

The revelation comes after a young Australian woman has been left fuming over the cost of living after visiting her local supermarket and fresh food grocer.

Elly Vickere was annoyed after nipping into Coles and spending $45 on two boxes of tea bags, two loaves of bread, a box of chicken Kievs and two litres of lactose free milk.

The young TikTokker also went into the green grocer and bought a huge stack of fresh vegetables which set her back $26.

'Half of the amount of money that I spent on those couple of (supermarket) items. They might not be the prettiest or most symmetrical but it is going in your belly anyway.'

Elly used to think going to the farmers market or green grocer would leave her further out of pocket.

'It is insanely cheap,' she said.

And people in the comments couldn't agree more.

'Personally as a Coles worker, definitely go to farmers markets because I legit stand there looking at the total being like that's ridiculous,' one person said.

'I work at Coles and honestly I'm so embarrassed to work there because they keep increasing the prices of things,' said another.

One woman said her weekly shop went from $90 to $170 a week at Coles.

Elly was furious over this $45 visit to the supermarket

Some pointed out Elly's expensive taste.

'Those teas are pricey,' one woman said.

Elly admitted she is a 'slave' to the prices because the teas help her get to sleep.

Others said the food from the markets lasts longer.

'Coles fruit and vegetables rot after three days - the market stuff lasts all week,' one woman wrote.

Some were excited by her fresh food haul.

'Bro a watermelon would have been $20 alone at Spudshed,' one said.

The video quickly went viral with over 45k people interacting with the conversation.
Diane Kruger looked typically stylish as she attended the premiere of her new film Visions in Paris on Tuesday.

The German actress, 47, flashed her washboard abs in a red crop top and matching low-rise maxi skirt.

She completed the look with a chic black blazer and elevated her height in pointed heels.

Her blonde locks were swept back in a bun as she posed for snaps on the red carpet alongside Marta Nieto and Mathieu Kassovitz.

Diane is starring in the upcoming psychological thriller written and directed by Yann Gozlan.

Gorgeous: Diane Kruger flashed her washboard abs in a red crop top as she attended the premiere of her new film Visions in Paris on Tuesday

Stylish: The German actress, 47, completed the look with a matching maxi skirt, a black blazer and elevated her height in pointed heels

The film is set in the south of France and Diane stars as Estelle, an airline captain happily married to a doctor played by Mathieu Kassovitz.

After Estelle has a chance encounter with her ex, Ana, she has an affair and develops recurring visions, nightmares and hallucinations.

Visions is scheduled to be released in cinemas on September 6.

Diane also has a starring role in the upcoming ballet drama Joika that is currently in post-production.

She made another stylish appearance at the festival on Thursday as she posed for a set of snaps during a photoshoot.

Diane put on a leggy display in a short tailored blue and white striped skirt as she smiled for the snaps.

Adorned with white pockets and gold buttons, the skirt was the feature point of the outfit as she paired it with a simple black T-shirt.

Diane juggles her acting career alongside taking care of her four-year-old daughter Nova Tennessee who she shares with her partner Norman Reedus, 54.

Diane and Norman were first seen together as a couple in July 2016 following her split from actor Joshua Jackson, 44, in 2016 after a decade together.

Stunning: Her blonde locks were swept back in a bun as she posed for snaps on the red carpet alongside Marta Nieto and Mathieu Kassovitz

Talented: Diane is starring in the upcoming psychological thriller written and directed by Yann Gozlan

Movie: She stars in a film which is set in the south of France and Diane stars as Estelle, an airline captain happily married to a doctor played by Mathieu

Norman and Diane originally met back in December 2015 while portraying lovers on the set of their film Sky and officially went public with their romance in March 2017 before getting engaged in August 2021.

Speaking in an interview in February, Diane said she didn't originally plan on having children but discussed the moment that changed.

In Dear Media's Divorced Not Dead podcast, she explained: 'I dont know. Maybe it is what people say about women and that time clock, just all of a sudden kicks in.

'I mean, the truth is I wouldve had a kid with or without a man attached.'
Adam Sandler's daughter Sunny enjoyed her actual Bat Mitzvah celebration just before shooting new movie, You Are So Not Invited To My Bat Mitzvah, with her famous dad and family.

The actor, 56, and his wife Jackie, 48, hosted the traditional Jewish rite of passage for their youngest daughter, now 14 in May 2022.

Director Sammi Cohen told People: 'So I went to that service, and we got to do the real-life bat mitzvah and then left to make the movie. It was a really fun life movie moment.

The director said the experience 'felt equally as fun as the parties you see [in the film].'

Sunny's actual Bat Mitzvah was a star-studded affair which included guests such as Jennifer Aniston, Taylor Lautner, David Spade and Peyton List.

Life imitates art: Adam Sandler's daughter Sunny enjoyed her actual Bat Mitzvah celebration just before shooting new movie, You are So Not Invited to My Bat Mitzvah , with her famous dad and family, seen here at the Murder Mystery 2 premiere in Paris in March

Actress: Adam and Idina Menzel star as the parents to Stacy Friedman, played by Sunny (pictured)

Musical guests for the after-party included Halsey and Charlie Puth.

Making the comedy was a family affair.

Adam and Idina Menzel star as the parents to Stacy Friedman, played by Sunny.

Stacy and her best friend, Lydia, played by Samantha Lorraine, both have hopes of being the stars of their own epic parties announcing their entrance into adulthood.

Unfortunately, jealousy over a boy and drama at school throw a wrench in those plans.

Jackie Sandler took on the role as Lydia's mom in the film.

Older daughter Sadie played Stacy's older sister Ronnie.

Saturday Night Live regular Sarah Sherman plays a quirky rabbi helping deal with the teenage drama.

Director Sammi Cohen told People : 'So I went to that service, and we got to do the real-life bat mitzvah and then left to make the movie. It was a really fun life movie moment' (seen 2022)

Fun: Cohen said Sunny's May 2022 Bat Mitzvah ''felt equally as fun as the parties you see [in the film]'

The movie is based on Fiona Rosenblooms 2005 novel by the same name.

Sunny had a small role in the Netflix comedy The Out-Laws, as one of the cousins of Adam Devine's character Owen.

Both films were produced under the umbrella of Adam's Happy Madison Productions.

Adam has been including his family in his films for years, including appearances in classics such as Grown Ups, Grown Ups 2 and Hubie's Halloween.

Both girls enjoy singing and sometimes perform with their guitar-playing dad at his shows.
As audiences do without late-night talk shows amid the ongoing WGA/SAG-AFTRA strikes - Spotify have decided to unite hosts Stephen Colbert, Jimmy Fallon, Jimmy Kimmel, Seth Meyers, and John Oliver for a brand new limited podcast series launching this Wednesday.

The five talk-show titans promise to 'bring their unique insights, opinions, and humor to the show as they navigate the Hollywood strikes and beyond' on the 12-episode Strike Force Five sponsored by Mint Mobile and Diageo.

In the Instagram teaser, Stephen Colbert introduced his fellow colleagues with a bit of light banter.

'The five of us together for maybe an hour a day,' Jimmy Fallon explained.

Thunder roared as Jimmy Kimmel added: 'Strike Force Five is the name of our podcast! Subscribe to it now!'

As audiences do without late-night talk shows amid the ongoing WGA/SAG-AFTRA strikes - Spotify have decided to unite hosts Stephen Colbert, Jimmy Fallon, Jimmy Kimmel, Seth Meyers, and John Oliver for a brand new limited podcast series launching this Wednesday

Will you tune in? The five talk-show titans promise to 'bring their unique insights, opinions, and humor to the show as they navigate the Hollywood strikes and beyond' on the 12-episode Strike Force Five

'Spotify or wherever else you get your podcast,' Seth Meyers chimed in.

John Oliver concluded with a NSFW send-off: 'But Spotify, you f***s.'

Egos are sure to hilariously clash as each host attempts to outdo each other serving as rotating moderators for the industry discussions.

All proceeds received by the hosts from Strike Force Five will go to out-of-work staff from the hosts respective shows - CBS' The Late Show, NBC's The Tonight Show, ABC's Jimmy Kimmel Live!, NBC's Late Night, and HBO's Last Week Tonight.

The last time Colbert, Fallon, Kimmel, and Meyers joined forces was to bid rival James Corden farewell on the April 27th finale of CBS' The Late Late Show.

Meanwhile, Real Time host Bill Maher hasn't missed a beat hosting his own podcast Club Random from the basement of his $20M seven-bedroom Beverly Hills mansion every Sunday.

The Writers Guild of America have been striking since May 2 and the Screen Actors GuildAmerican Federation of Television and Radio Artists have been striking since July 14.

For the first time in four decades, the unions are both on strike demanding contracts that includes updated streaming residuals and AI regulations.

'One more time Jimmy!' In the Instagram teaser, Stephen Colbert introduced his fellow colleagues with a bit of light banter

Jimmy Fallon explained: 'The five of us together for maybe an hour a day'

Thunder roared as Jimmy Kimmel added: 'Strike Force Five is the name of our podcast! Subscribe to it now!'

Seth Meyers chimed in: 'Spotify or wherever else you get your podcast'

John Oliver concluded with a NSFW send-off: 'But Spotify, you f***s'

Rotating moderators! All proceeds received by the hosts from Strike Force Five will go to out-of-work staff from the hosts respective shows - CBS' The Late Show, NBC's The Tonight Show, ABC's Jimmy Kimmel Live!, NBC's Late Night, and HBO's Last Week Tonight

Not the first time! The last time Meyers, Colbert, Fallon, and Kimmel joined forces was to bid rival James Corden (2-R) farewell on the April 27th finale of CBS' The Late Late Show
The mother of a man fatally shot by officers with the Los Angeles Police Department should receive $24 million, according to a jury verdict.

LAPD cops killed Jesse Murillo, a 32-year-old Navy veteran, on Dec. 23, 2017 in the San Fernando Valley. Officers Fred Sigman and Christopher Montague fired the fatal shots, but the L.A. district attorneys office decided not to file criminal charges.

Authorities said Murillo was running at the two officers when they opened fire. Murillos mother, Tammy, insisted that her son was running away and said she filed the wrongful death suit to change the narrative around the killing.

My son never rushed them, she told the Los Angeles Daily News. I felt that I had to pursue this. I miss my son very much. He was an amazing young man.

Cops were called to a home in Canoga Park around 7:15 p.m. on the day of the shooting after a 911 caller said Murillo was involved in a fight at the residence. The first officer on the scene called for backup, claiming Murillo was armed with a machete and a hammer.

Sigman and Montague arrived as the backup. They spotted Murillo carrying a 16-inch pull bar, which they mistook for a machete. The two officers claimed Murillo charged at them with the bar, and they shot him in fear for their safety and the safety of others.

But body-camera video and physical evidence showed Murillo was running away from the cops when they opened fire, attorney Dale Galipo told KNBC.

The jury believed the officers were exaggerating, fabricating and lying as to what happened, Galipo told the outlet.

The Los Angeles city attorneys office is expected to appeal the verdict, but had not formally filed to do so as of Monday, according to the L.A. Times.
Pia Whitesell has sent her fans into meltdown by sharing a rare photo of her lookalike sons Isaiah, 20, and Lennox, 16.

The former Home And Away star, 39, took to Instagram on Monday with the sweet family update, posting an image of her sons relaxing at a poolside restaurant.

' & then God smiled upon me,' the proud mother began her caption, adding: 'My boys.'

Longtime fans of the model couldn't believe how mature her sons looked, with one commenting: 'Oh my they have grown so much! What handsome young men - blessings indeed.'

'Damn, they've grown so much! Been following you since they were just a boy! Now they are men already,' another added.

Pia Whitesell, 39, sent her fans into meltdown by sharing this rare photo of her lookalike sons Isaiah, 20, (left) and Lennox, 16, (right) on Monday

Others remarked on how similar Pia's boys look to their stunning mother.

'Beautiful looking boys, just like their mummy,' one wrote, as another added: 'You have such handsome boys.'

'Got the genes!' someone else wrote, while another user concurred: 'Beautiful glow about them here. So inspired by your ability to create healthy relationships within your family dynamic!'

Longtime fans of the model (pictured) couldn't believe how mature her sons looked, with one commenting: 'Oh my they have grown so much! What handsome young men - blessings indeed.'

Others remarked on how similar Pia's boys look to their stunning mother. 'Beautiful looking boys, just like their mummy,' one wrote, as another added: 'You have such handsome boys.' (Pia is pictured with her sons in 2020)

Chilean-born Pia welcomed Isaiah in 2003 at the tender age of 17.

In an interview with Elle in 2017, Pia said it 'wasn't easy' juggling her modelling career with raising a newborn, but said 'once I decided that was the path I was going to take, it became almost seamless'.

She went on to marry AFL legend Brad Miller in 2005, and the couple welcomed their son Lennox in October 2006.

Pia put her modelling career on hold when she fell pregnant 17 years ago. In 2003, she gave birth to her eldest son, Isaiah

Miller was married to retired AFL player Brad Miller (left) between 2007 and 2015. The couple welcomed their son Lennox in October 2006

However, the couple sadly announced their split in 2015, after 10 years together, blaming the break-up on their hectic work schedules.

Shortly after their split, Pia was linked to film producer and businessman Tyson Mullane.

They announced their romance on Valentine's Day in 2016, but the couple never made it down the aisle as they split in 2019.

Shortly after their split, Pia was linked to film producer and businessman Tyson Mullane. They announced their romance on Valentine's Day in 2016, but the couple never made it down the aisle as they split in 2019

She is now happily married to multi-millionaire Hollywood agent Patrick Whitesell (left), who is 18 years her senior

She is now happily married to multi-millionaire Hollywood agent Patrick Whitesell, who is 18 years her senior.

Patrick is considered one of Hollywood's most influential celebrity agents, representing the likes of Ben Affleck, Christian Bale, Matt Damon, Michelle Williams, Idris Elba, Jake Gyllenhaal, Hugh Jackman, John Krasinski, Jude Law, Ryan Reynolds, and Denzel Washington.

The handsome businessman acts as the Executive Chairman of Endeavour talent agency and owns a stake in the company worth around US$480million (approx. $735million).

He shares son Evan and daughter Eleanor with his ex-wife Lauren Sanchez.
Former Baywatch star Carmen Electra has revealed the strangest request shes received on OnlyFans.

The former MTV Spring Break VJ, 51, joined the adult site in 2022, just four weeks after celebrating her 50th birthday.

And 25-years after leaving the iconic show, Carmen explained fans have shown interest in her feet.

She said: 'I get lots of requests for my feet, it cracks me up.'

The blonde bombshell, who became a sex symbol on Baywatch in the 1990s and for appearing on the cover of Playboy, previously claimed 'it was like a no-brainer' to join the platform.

Bizarre: Former Baywatch star Carmen Electra has revealed the strangest request shes received on OnlyFans

The former MTV Spring Break VJ, 51, who joined the adult site in 2022, said: 'I get lots of requests for my feet, it cracks me up'

She told People magazine that she enjoyed the fact she can 'be in control' of her pictures and be uninhibited by the sort of censorship she has to subject her saucy snaps to on Instagram.

'I just felt like: "Yeah, I need to do this." I, for once, have this opportunity to be my own boss and have my own creative vision to share with my fans without someone standing over me, telling me: "Don't do this, don't do that. Cover up this."'

Electra added: 'People are going to do what they want to do anyway with your photos, you might as well be in control of them and follow what you feel like doing inside.'

The actress, who has taken to suing strip clubs that neglect to get her approval before using her likeness, declared: 'It does feel really good to stand up for yourself.'

Electra told the magazine her OnlyFans will feature snaps of her in lingerie as well as photos from her holidays and posts about her beauty tips.

Meanwhile she assured People that her account will also treat her admirers to 'more sexy, classy pictures and videos.'

Her OnlyFans gambit will enable her to speak to the public on an individual basis, allowing her to be 'a little bit more intimate.'

It is free to subscribe to the actress' account but she charges up to $25 for exclusive posts, while she also offers VIP bundles for higher rates.

In an interview with OutKick, Electra talked about how much OnlyFans has actually improved her life as she gushed: 'OnlyFans fits in perfectly because I am the creative director of my own shoots, on my own time.

'Theres nothing out there that I havent approved. And I love connecting with my fans.'

Pretty in pink: She wore a pale pink lingerie inspired sheer tank top with a plunging neckline and tiny shorts with white booties and white and pink knee-high socks

It comes after Carmen looked ready to flashback to her days on Baywatch in a 1990s-inspired photo shoot for the Australian brand I.AM.GIA .

The former MTV Spring Break VJ, 51, looked pretty in pink and plaid and black in the various looks she modeled as well as and decades younger than her age.

She wore a pale pink lingerie-inspired sheer tank top with a plunging neckline and tiny shorts with lace up white booties and white and pink knee-high socks.

The Scary Movie star's waist-length blonde hair was styled straight and she wore sunglasses as she posed on an outdoor stage and held an old-school microphone.

The snaps prompted one fan to comment: 'MTV spring break vibes!!'

In another look, the Good Burger actress wore a grey plaid minidress that showcased her ample cleavage beautifully.

Her hair was blown out and hung like a lion's mane from her head. She wore light pink lipstick and huge hoop earrings.

The ultra sexy look prompted commenters to write: 'Iconic' and 'Best of the best.'

Carmen's third look had a Jane of the Jungle vibe to it with its ombre brown, long-sleeved, fur-trimmed shrug that exposed miles of cleavage.

The 'Til Death Do Us Part: Carmen and Dave alum paired the top with a micro mini and knee high boots in the same fabric.

In the next snap, the former Playboy Playmate wore a skin tight, long beige dress with lacing detail down the sides and center of her chest. She paired the sleek look with cork-heeled wedge sandals.

The Chocolate City actress also modeled a sleeveless black jumpsuit with a neckline that plunged all the way to below her belly button. One slim black strap below her breasts kept her modest.

In another snap the Ohio native posed bent over in just a pair of jeans and and a silver bikini top with unusual looking silver, white and black heels.

Jungle: Carmen's third look had a Jane of the Jungle vibe to it with its ombre brown, long-sleeved, fur-trimmed shrug that exposed miles of cleavage

Rock n Roll: Carmen also modeled a long, figure-hugging black leather skirt with a matching cropped halter top

Carmen also modeled a long, figure-hugging black leather skirt with a matching cropped halter top

The top featured criss-crossed straps across her tanned back. She paired the look with a pair of sky high platform heels with studding detail.

The final look the Monster Island actress wore was a floor-length, black tube dress.

The dress featured sheer black cutouts across the torso starting just below her breast and extending to her belly button.
Rolling Stones fans are convinced they have worked out the name of the band's new single following the release of a cryptic newspaper advert.

A recent advert which promoted their new album, Hackney Diamonds, contained a clue to the title, and fans believe that it's going to be called 'Angry'.

The ad in an edition of the Hackney Gazette last week included a fake double glazing advert and a number to call.

If readers called the number they were met by a recording, which said: 'Welcome to Hackney Diamonds, specialists in glass repair. Don't get angry, get it fixed.'

The recording made some some think that 'Angry' could be the name of the first single from the new album.

Big things to come! Rolling Stones fans are convinced they have worked out the name of the band's new single following the release of a cryptic newspaper advert

Cryptic: The Rolling Stones announced their new album title Hackney Diamonds in a local newspaper

A source told The Sun: 'The reception from the Stones' fans to the announcement has been incredible. Angry is a good shout, but they'll just have to wait and see.'

The insider also reported that the band - which includes Mick Jagger, Keith Richards and Ronnie Wood - will release the album in late October.

My music insider added: 'The Stones are so proud of Hackney Diamonds and they cannot wait for their fans to hear it.

'The record is going to be out towards the end of October. They're confident it will become their 14th chart-topper.'

The big reveal of the band's new album name came in the form of a cryptic local newspaper advert last week.

They dropped a series of subtle hints that it was them behind the ad by using a tiny version of their iconic tongue logo to dot the 'i' in the brand name Diamonds.

The logo for the name of their recent 60th anniversary tour is also a colourful redesign of the famous mouth.

In further hints in the advert text they name-dropped the Stones' 1965 hit Satisfaction, Gimme Shelter from 1969, and 1978 track Shattered.

Clever: The band's record label put the advert in the Hackney Gazette for eagle-eyed readers to find when buying the publication

The font used for Hackney Diamonds is also the same as the one used on the 1978 album Some Girls.

The date mark included at the bottom also said established in 1962 in reference to the year the group formed.

On the advert which was published on page three of the newspaper on Monday - there was also a phone number.

If you ring the number a recorded message says: 'Welcome to Hackney Diamonds, specialists in glass repair.

'Don't get angry, get it fixed - opening early September, Mare Street, E8. Register for a call at www.hackneydiamonds.com - come on then.'

The new album will be the first to be released since their drummer Charlie Watts died in August 2021.

Charlie's publicist announced he had died at the age of 80 on August 24 2021.

The London-born drummer joined the then-fledgling band in 1963 after meeting Mick, Keith and Brian Jones while playing in rhythm and blues clubs.

Important: Cryptic: They dropped a series of subtle hints that it was them behind the ad by using a tiny version of their iconic tongue logo to dot the 'i' in the brand name Diamonds

Slick: In further hints in the advert text they name-dropped the Stones' 1965 hit Satisfaction, Gimme Shelter from 1969, and 1978 track Shattered (Mick is pictured)

Meaning: The date mark included at the bottom also said established in 1962 in reference to the year the group formed

Along with Jagger and Richards, Watts featured on every one of the band's studio albums. He was widely regarded as one of the greatest drummers of all time.

Known for his deadpan wit, understated conversational style and love of tailored suits, his low-key style was much at odds with the flamboyant lifestyle of band mates such as Jagger and Richards.

He had one wife, Shirley, with whom who he married in 1964 before the band shot to superstardom. The couple, who lived together in a rural village in Devon, last year rescued a greyhound from an Oxford animal sanctuary.

Watts was due to tour the US with the band later that year as part of their 'No Filter' tour. But it was announced earlier in August 2021 he would not feature as he needed to recover from a recent emergency surgery.

Watts was the first long-stay member of The Rolling Stones to die of age-related illness.

Loss: The new album will be the first to be released since their drummer Charlie Watts died in August 2021

Founder and leader of The Stones, Jones, died in 1969 from accidental drowning, shortly after being kicked out of the band.

Stones frontman Jagger marked the death of Watts by tweeting a smiling picture of his bandmate doing what he loved best - drumming.

Fellow long-term bandmate Richards also followed up with a poignant tribute showing an empty drum kit accompanied with a 'closed sign'.

Watts' London publicist, Bernard Doherty, said in a statement at the time: 'It is with immense sadness that we announce the death of our beloved Charlie Watts. He passed away peacefully in a London hospital earlier today surrounded by his family.
Teen Mom star Jenelle Evans' 14-year-old son Jace was reported missing for the second time in two weeks, before he was found safely by police Monday.

August Keen, who is the MTV star's rep told TMZ that Evans was not able to locate Jace for several hours and called the police.

Jace had left the family's home in North Carolina on Monday, and his mother eventually contacted the authorities when she couldn't find him.

Police found Jace at a gas station that's a 10-minute drive from the family home, sources told the outlet, adding it was not immediately clear if he was by himself or with friends.

Jace is safe at home with his mother and her spouse David Eason, Keen told the outlet, noting that Jace 'just wants more freedom as he gets older, and is just a typical teen being a teen.'

The latest: Teen Mom star Jenelle Evans ' 14-year-old son Jace was reported missing for the second time in two weeks, before he was found safely by police Monday

Distress: August Keen, who is the MTV star's rep told TMZ that Evans was not able to locate Jace for several hours and called the police

Evans two weeks ago denied that Snapchat was a factor in authorities finding Jace after he was reported missing August 15.

'My son was not found "because of Snapchat,"' the Oak Island, North Carolina native, 31, told more than 3.1 million followers on Instagram Stories Wednesday as she asked the public for privacy for her family.

The MTV personality said 'there are lots of rumors going around about what happened.'

On August 16, The Sun reported that the Brunswick County Sheriff's Department in North Carolina received a tip from a 911 caller about Jace's whereabouts, noting that their child had been following him on the app.

The outlet reported that authorities were able to suss out where Jace was 'due to his Snapchat location,' noting that he 'was hiding behind his school in the trees.'

Evans on August 16 wrapped up her statement in saying, 'I would like to take this time to give my son privacy and appreciate it the public would do the same.'

According to a police report reviewed by The Sun, Jace left the school by foot after arguing with a school staffer, prompting the school's principal to call 911 and report him missing at around 2:40 p.m.

Jace 'ducked into the woods' after he left the school, according to law enforcement, and was found safe at 5:45 p.m., the outlet reported.

An alert for a runaway juvenile had been put out by Sheriff's Department deputies earlier in the day, according to TMZ.

Details: The MTV personality said 'there are lots of rumors going around about what happened' in the wake of a report that police used clues on the app to find Jace

'Kids can act up and rebel': Speaking with TMZ, Jenelle claimed her son ran off after his phone was taken from him

Jenelle regained full custody of Jace earlier this year after she gave custody of him to her mother Barbara Evans shortly after she gave birth to him.

Jenelle told the outlet that her son ran off after his phone was taken from him following troubles at school.

'As a boy mom, kids can act up and rebel as I'm sure the majority of us all once did as kids too,' she told TMZ in a statement. 'Jace ... got in trouble at school, we decided to take his phone away and that's when he decided to run off.'

Jenelle called Jace 'a good kid' and said the situation was not 'anything that most families don't deal with while raising children,' adding, 'This is a teenage boy being a teenager mad that we decided to take his phone away.'

The reality star has been airing her grievances with husband David Eason online as of late, but insisted their feuding played no role in him running away.

'This has absolutely nothing to do with my situation with David, we do not argue in front of our children or fight in front of our kids,' she said.

Jace's grandmother Barbara told TMZ things seemed fine with the teenager when she last spoke to him on Monday night.

Barbara also alleged she unsuccessfully attempted to check in on Jenelle on Tuesday.

'We do not argue in front of our children': Jenelle has been feuding with her husband David Eason online as of late, but insisted their fighting had nothing to do with him running away

Supportive: Jenelle called Jace 'a good kid' and said the situation was not 'anything that most families don't deal with while raising children'

She claimed her daughter did not want to communicate with her and told her to leave her alone.

Jace's dad is Jenelle's high school boyfriend Andrew Lewis. Jenelle is also the mother to son Kaiser, nine, with her ex-boyfriend Nathan Griffin, and daughter Ensley, six, with David.

Jenelle officially regained full custody of Jace back in March, more than 10 years after relinquishing parental rights to her mother.

'Words can't describe how happy I truly am. Our family is complete now! Thank you mom,' she captioned the video of herself signing the papers in March.

Jenelle battled for custody of her oldest son for years amid her own struggle with drug addiction and a number of arrests.

'My mom and I decided together to grant full custody back to me because we want to build our relationship back as mother and daughter,' Jenelle told Us Weekly at the time. 'We have officially signed the papers on Thursday, March 16th at the courthouse. It's a done deal!'

Speaking with E! News at the time she regained custody, Jenelle said her relationship with Jace had significantly improved.

'My relationship with Jace is closer than ever and doing much better,' Jenelle said. 'I feel like being with his family makes him much happier. Our family wasn't complete without him.'

Family: Jenelle regained full custody of Jace earlier this year after she gave custody of him to her mother Barbara Evans shortly after she gave birth to him. Pictured in LA in 2015

She also revealed that the new arrangement has partially helped to heal her strained relationship with Barbara, saying, 'My relationship with my mother has got a little better, but truthfully she is still a little controlling ... I think it's going to take time for her to get use to this change.'

Jenelle revealed the push to get custody came from believing that her son 'needed a change.

'We also didn't like the crowds he was hanging out with, so now he's in the country. He loves riding his dirt bike and working on it recently. He wants to sign up for dirt bike races in the future,' she shared.

Jenelle also shed light on Jace's relationship with stepdad David.

'David teaches him how to hunt, fish, fix dirt bikes or giving Jace dating advice,' she said. 'Jace needed a father figure and I can tell how happy Jace is having one around.'

Jenelle is one of the original stars of MTV's 16 and Pregnant, which debuted on the network in 2009 and followed a group of pregnant high school girls and their boyfriends.

Jenelle was 17 when Jace was born her entire pregnancy was documented on the show.

The Teen Mom alum started dating her current husband, David Eason, in 2015 and they married in September 2017.

Jenelle is also stepmom to David's two children from previous relationships, Maryssa and Kaden.
A 23-year-old artist has revealed how she scooped up a $3,000 necklace for just $2 at a thrift store.

Jess Smith, from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, was visiting a local shop when she found the 'weird' necklace that looks similar to a Tide Pod.

After buying it, she reverse-searched a picture of the necklace on Google and found it was actually a rare piece of lost art.

It was created by late Pittsburgh artist Aaronel deRoy Gruber - a sculptor who was famous for her 3D plexiglass pieces. Smith was later informed the piece was worth between $2,800 and $3,200.

Smith told Insider: 'I saw this really weird necklace hanging there with this giant clear pendant on it. And when I say giant, I mean it was a pendant, easily two by two or three by three inches.

Jess Smith, from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, was visiting a local thrift store when she found the 'weird' necklace that looks similar to a Tide Pod. She documented her find on TikTok

'It was neon, translucent and I thought it was made of plastic.'

She added: 'It was $1.99 so I figured I might as well get it. It's pretty funky-looking. I'll wear it.'

Upon closer inspection she noticed it had an inscription with the date '1973' spelt out.

After realizing where the necklace had come from, she reached out to the Irving and Aaronel deRoy Gruber Foundation on Instagram.

Foundation director Brittany Reilly then got in touch with Smith and informed her of the art's real worth.

After realizing where the necklace had come from, Smith reached out to the Irving and Aaronel deRoy Gruber Foundation on Instagram

'The first thing she said to me was, 'I don't even have to see it in person. I know that is a real Gruber necklace,' Smith told Insider.

'She also said it's a really special piece because Gruber made quite a few different necklaces  they don't know how many  but each one has a completely unique color palette and form.'

She was told she could either keep the necklace or be put in contact with private collectors who would pay the full price for it.

In the end, however, she decided to offer it as a year-long loan to the gallery.

After documenting her story on TikTok, many views remarked the piece looked like a Tide Pod.

DeRoy Gruber was born in 1918 and became known for her abstract paintings before moving into sculptures and later photography. She died in 2011 when she was 92 years old.

Her work is featured in The Carnegie Museum of Art, the Butler Institute of American Art and the Westmoreland Museum of American Art among others.
Andrea Giambruno, a journalist and partner of Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, was criticized Tuesday for advising young women not to drink to avoid being raped on television.

Giambruno spoke live during the current affairs program that he presents on Mondays on Rete4, owned by the Mediaset group, of the Berlusconi family, and one of the largest private channels in the country.

Along with other guests, he spoke of the various cases of sexual violence that have rocked Italy in recent weeks, including the gang rape of a 19-year-old girl in Palermo in early July.

In this case, the victim described how her attackers forced her to drink. Video surveillance footage shows her staggering as seven young men lead her away.

"If you're going to dance, you have every right to get drunk. There should be no misunderstandings or reservations here. But if you avoid getting drunk and passing out, you probably also avoid certain problems and the risk of actually throwing yourself into the lion's den," he added. .

Opposition leaders to the right-wing government of Giorgia Meloni immediately attacked him.

"I express my solidarity with the victim of the Palermo rape, who cannot, in addition to what she has experienced, suffer the infamous insults of those who make the victims feel guilty," reacted Elly Schlein, national secretary of the Democratic Party, the main left party.

In response, Giamburno denounced "a surreal polemic" and the "instrumentalization" of his statements.

He recalled that both he and his guests had repeatedly condemned the perpetrators of the "abominable" acts, calling them "animals."

Andrea Giambruno was also lashed out by a well-known colleague, Enrico Mentana, head of news at rival private network La7.

"If you go shopping with your bag and it's stolen, you deserve it. If you're a woman and you go out at night in a miniskirt and no bra, if you're still out after midnight, or if you have one drink too many, don't worry. surprised if you get robbed," he joked on Instagram.
Their two children on their shoulders, Wilfredo Riera and Nataly Barrionuevo jump into the Rio Grande from the Mexican shore. Waist deep in water, they avoid the buoys placed by Texas to block their passage and head for the United States.

"They had spoken to us (of the buoys), but had told us that they did not mark all the territory, that there was a way to get there", says Wilfredo Riera, a 26-year-old Venezuelan from Ecuador. with his wife Nataly Barrionuevo, 39, and their children, Yeiden, 2, and Nicolas, 7.

In July, the governor of Texas, the Republican Greg Abbott, had this floating barrier installed on the river, the natural border between the United States and Mexico, to flow back migrants.

The buoys are designed to spin if grabbed and have serrated metal discs. At the beginning of August, a lifeless body was found there.

Wilfredo Riera, Nataly Barrionuevo, and their children left Ecuador a month and a half ago in search of work and a better life. They crossed the Darien jungle, from Colombia to Panama.

With a dozen other migrants, the family was able to cross the river, far from the buoys.

It takes them about ten minutes to cross from one bank to the other, from Piedras Negras, in Mexico, to Eagle Pass, in the United States.

They then come up against an interminable barrier of barbed wire before finally finding a breach and rushing through it.

It is 2:00 p.m., the temperature felt exceeds 40C. A warm wind is blowing, and the only sound is that of lizards hiding in the vegetation.

In front of them, another fence, about three meters high with, again, barbed wire. They cover them with their clothes to pass to the other side.

Nataly Barrionuevo climbs it, and waits for her husband to catch up with her with their children. Some come out with a hole in their pants, but they're in the United States.

A Border Police van arrives, kicking up dust. In Spanish, an agent asks them for their identity papers.

They search the men and place everyone in a vehicle, heading for a detention center.

If they are allowed to apply for asylum, they will be able to stay temporarily in the United States, until a judge rules. Otherwise, they will be expelled.

"We want to work, to give them a future," says Nataly Barrionuevo, pointing to her children, before her voice breaks.

Jumping the fence, the migrants arrive at a private property, the Heavenly Farms of the Urbina, pecan nut farmers.

Their land has direct access to the river, where the buoys float, and is now fully fenced and guarded by the military.

They don't like it, but they have no choice but to accept, laments Magali Urbina, 52.

"My husband and I don't believe in open borders. But neither do we believe in treating people inhumanely," she explains.

"We are human beings first and foremost," she points out, "you're not saying wait a minute, you shouldn't be here, it's not our first human instinct."

The buoys are the subject of a showdown between Texas and the United States federal government.

The Justice Department considers them a humanitarian and diplomatic issue because they violate border treaties with Mexico, and has sued Texas to remove them.

The case is now being considered in federal court.

The Texas authorities already had to move the buoys last week because they were encroaching on the Mexican side.

"We are fully authorized by the Constitution of the United States to do exactly what we do", namely "secure the border", defended Governor Greg Abbott.

The Republican accuses Joe Biden's administration of being responsible for an immigration crisis and the governors of other conservative states have sent troops to support him.

"The governor of Texas has set up a cute little scene to make it look like a war zone," said Jessie Fuentes, 62, owner of a kayak tour business.

He had to close up shop, "because nobody wants to go on the river in these conditions".

Robie Flores, 36, was born and raised in Eagle Pass. She remembers her childhood on the banks of the Rio Grande. People were picnicking, wading in the water, boating. It was even common to greet the neighbors of Piedras Negras.

But, since then, Texas has erected a barrier of containers that obscures the view, explains this videographer, co-founder of the border coalition of Eagle Pass. Then came the barbed wire and, finally, the buoys.

"It's really sad to see. Migrants rounded up like cattle, treated like less than nothing," she denounces. "That's not how our community works. We're a border community."

28/08/2023 12:34:02 - Eagle Pass (United States) (AFP) -  2023 AFP
During his annual speech to the ambassadors gathered at the Elysee Palace, Emmanuel Macron asked, on Monday August 28, for the release of the four French people detained "in unacceptable conditions" in Iran. "There is no justification for detention," he added.

The four French people detained by Tehran are Louis Arnaud, since September 2022, Cecile Kohler, a French teacher, and her companion Jacques Paris, arrested in May 2022 for "espionage", and another, whose identity has not been disclosed. .

I just want to say with regard to Iran, first, that France will continue to have a clear policy. No weakness, the French president assured, pointing out that the four French nationals currently in Iranian prisons were arbitrarily detained.

France and other states denounce what they call "hostage diplomacy" on the part of Iran, which consists of arresting Western nationals in order to obtain concessions such as the release of its own nationals.

Belgian humanitarian Olivier Vandecasteele, 42, was released at the end of May after fifteen months of detention, in exchange for an Iranian diplomat, Assadollah Assadi, sentenced in Belgium in 2021 for "attempted terrorist assassination" to twenty years in prison. prison.

For "humanitarian reasons", this time, Benjamin Briere, a Frenchman, as well as Bernard Phelan, a Franco-Irishman whose state of health had deteriorated sharply, had been released last May.
The camp of Albert Ondo Ossa, President Ali Bongo Ondimba's main rival in Saturday's election in Gabon, reaffirmed on Monday that it had won, in the absence of official results, and called on the Head of State to "organize transfer of power".

Mr. Ondo Ossa, behind whom the main opposition parties have lined up, had already denounced "fraud" by the Bongo camp on Saturday, two hours before the polls closed, and asked to be "declared the winner".

"We call on our compatriots who gravitate around this power that is more devoid of legitimacy than ever, particularly those around Mr. Ali Bongo Ondimba" to "bow humbly before the will of the Gabonese people", declared Mike Jocktane, the director of campaign of Mr. Ondo Ossa, during a press conference in Libreville.

"What is now expected of Mr. Ali Bongo Ondimba, (c') is that he accepts the sovereign choice of the Gabonese people, that he respects it and that he organizes, without bloodshed, the transfer of power to favor of Professor Albert Ondo Ossa", hammered Mr. Jocktane.

In support of this request, he invoked a "trend", which he quantified, based on "the consolidation of more than 50% of the votes" cast, without presenting any supporting document.

Gabonese law prohibits any media from reproducing figures put forward by Mr. Jocktane or anyone else, pending the official results that only the Gabonese Elections Center (CGE) is empowered by law to proclaim.

Questioned several times by AFP on Sunday and Monday, the CGE refused to give any indications on the progress of the counting and on the date and time of the proclamation of the official results.

Saturday, at the scheduled time for the closing of the polls, the government suspended internet access throughout the country and decreed a curfew for the next day, citing the risk of violence after the statements of Mr. Ondo Ossa who demanded to be proclaimed the winner.

Internet access was still not restored on Monday evening and the army and the police had set up roadblocks throughout the capital in the evening to enforce the curfew for the second consecutive night.

Mr. Bongo, 64, was elected in 2009 after the death of his father Omar Bongo Ondimba, who had ruled the small oil-rich Central African state for more than 41 years. The opposition denounces the perpetuation of a "Bongo dynasty" of more than 55 years to date.

President Bongo, head of state for 14 years, is seeking a third term, reduced from 7 to 5 years. Saturday's elections included three ballots, presidential, legislative and municipal, all in a single round.

The main platform of the opposition parties, Alternance 2023, had finally chosen its "consensual candidate" in the person of Mr. Ondo Ossa, 69, only eight days before the ballot, after a bitter struggle between six contenders. . This had left only six days for this associate professor of economics at the University of Libreville, and former minister of Omar Bongo, to campaign.

- "Incomprehension"

When the results of the 2016 presidential election were announced, won by only 5,500 votes by Mr. Bongo, his main rival Jean Ping denounced fraud and declared himself president.

A wave of violence in Libreville then killed at least five people, according to the government. The opposition had reported about thirty victims, killed by the bullets of the police.

Three days before the ballot on Saturday, the justice opened an investigation into an alleged recording of a conversation attributed to Mr. Ondo Ossa and another opponent, for remarks which "suggest an attack on state security" .

On Saturday evening, in addition to the internet shutdown, the media watchdog also announced a "temporary ban on broadcasting in Gabon" of French television channels France 24 and TV5 Monde and Radio France internationale (RFI), to which he was "blamed for a lack of objectivity and balance".

On Sunday, RFI and France 24 expressed their "misunderstanding" of this decision, which "deprives Gabonese of two of their main sources of reliable and independent information".

The government had granted no accreditation to foreign journalists wishing to come and cover the elections and refused entry to the territory to others.

28/08/2023 21:58:21 - Libreville (AFP) -  2023 AFP
Russia thwarted nighttime attacks by Ukrainian drones in the western Moscow and Bryansk regions, Russian authorities said early Monday (August 28th). On Monday, "the air defense forces of the Lioubertsy district (south-east of the capital, editor's note) destroyed a drone which was flying in the direction of Moscow", indicated on Telegram the mayor of the Russian capital, Sergei Sobyanin.

"There were no casualties or damage, according to initial information," he added, adding that the competent services were on site. According to the Ministry of Defense, the attack was led by kyiv and was foiled around 4:30 a.m. local time (3:30 a.m. in Paris).

Moscow's Domodedovo and Vnukovo international airports were briefly closed to departures and arrivals before resuming operations, Russian state news agency TASS reported concurrently, citing the airline service.

During the night from Sunday to Monday, two more aircraft were "destroyed by air defense on duty over the territory of the Bryansk region, bordering Ukraine, the Russian Defense Ministry said. on Telegram. The ministry did not give any information about any injuries or damage.

Drone attacks against Russian territory and the Crimean peninsula annexed in 2014 have increased in recent weeks, targeting the Russian capital in particular, against the backdrop of a counter-offensive by Kiev that began in early June.

On Thursday, Moscow announced that it had shot down three Ukrainian aircraft in the bordering regions of Bryansk and Kaluga. During the summer, devices had been destroyed above the business district of the capital, and in May, two devices had suffered the same fate at the level of the Kremlin. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky welcomed in late July that "war is coming to Russian territory".
A man was killed over the weekend in a road-rage shooting between a driver and a group of bikers in Philadelphia.

The violence happened around 9 p.m. Saturday night near the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence was signed, after a group of dirt bike riders reportedly blocked a Cadillac driver. The bikers and the driver traded fire, but its unclear who shot first, police said.

The 36-year-old driver, who has not been identified, took himself to the hospital and was treated for a gunshot wound. An investigation is ongoing, but no charges have been filed.

Angel Luis, 29, was shot twice in the torso and pronounced dead around 9:30 p.m. after being taken to a nearby hospital.

Before police arrived, National Parks Service Rangers who patrol the historic landmarks detained a 24-year-old man who allegedly shot at the Cadillac as the vehicle fled the scene.

Last night, a road-rage incident near Independence Mall left one young adult dead and another injured, Mayor Jim Kenney posted on social media. Unfortunately, our countrys gun problem means disputes can turn deadly, needlessly cutting young lives short.

Road-rage shootings have increased each year since 2018, according to advocacy group Everytown for Gun Safety. A person was injured or killed in a road rage shooting every 16 hours in 2022.

There were at least 141 road rage shooting deaths in 2022, the group says, citing data from the Gun Violence Archive database.

Multiple studies found that motorists are more likely to drive aggressively or exhibit road rage if theres a gun in the car.
The 168 migrants who remain on board the Civil Guard patrol boat Rio Tagus in front of the port of Nouadhibou (Mauritania) will finally be returned to Senegal, as reported by the Unified Association of Civil Guards (AUGC) on Monday and sources have confirmed to Efe. of the government.

The association has valued this solution to the situation of the people who have been crowded for days on board the Armed Institute ship awaiting a resolution between the Spanish and Mauritanian authorities.

The AUGC had described the situation as "unsustainable" and had warned of the risks to the safety of the crew.

In the last hours, Interior had pointed out that the resolution of the conflict would happen "soon" after "intense negotiations" with the Mauritanian authorities and although in these days they had been working to disembark them in the nearest safe port, that of Nuadibou, Finally, it has been decided to transfer the migrants to Senegal, the country from which the rescued cayuco originally left.

According to the AUGC account, the Mauritanian authorities "prohibited" disembarkation in Nouadhibou "by threatening not to take responsibility for the rescued immigrants, a fact that has worsened when the hygiene and health situations have begun to worsen on board over the course of the days", according to this association.

"There have been moments of great tension while they were waiting for the negotiations. The agents were forced to fire into the air before a possible riot," says the AUGC.
An Israeli airstrike hit the international airport of Aleppo (north), Syria's second city, early Monday morning for the fourth time since the beginning of the year, putting it out of service, according to official Syrian media.

"Around 4:30 a.m. (0130 GMT), the Israeli enemy carried out an air assault from the Mediterranean, west of Latakia, against Aleppo International Airport," the official Sana news agency said, quoting a statement. military sources.

An official from the Syrian Ministry of Transport, Sleiman Khalil, told AFP that the only runway in useable condition had been damaged.

"Technical teams will start repairs today so that the airport can become operational again as soon as possible," he added. The flights were diverted to airports in Damascus, the capital, and Latakia (west), according to him.

Since the beginning of the war in Syria, Israel has carried out hundreds of airstrikes on Syrian territory targeting mainly the forces supported by Iran and the Lebanese Hezbollah, allies of Damascus and sworn enemies of Israel, as well as the army Syrian.

Israel, a neighboring country of Syria, rarely comments on the strikes in Syria but says it wants to prevent Iran from establishing itself on its doorstep.

Asked by AFP, an Israeli military spokesman declined to comment on Monday: "We do not comment on foreign media reports," he said.

According to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (OSDH), the strikes on Monday targeted, in addition to Aleppo airport, "arms depots" in the nearby Nayrab military airfield.

Israel "threatens the freedom of movement of aircraft" and "the security of international civil aviation", accused the Syrian Ministry of Foreign Affairs in a statement released by Sana, calling the attack "cowardly".

The Aleppo region and the airport have been repeatedly targeted by Israeli raids since the beginning of the year.

In early May, four Syrian soldiers and three foreign fighters from pro-Iranian groups were killed in strikes that then targeted Aleppo airport and other targets, including an arms depot at Nayrab airfield, according to the OSDH.

In March, Israeli strikes twice put Aleppo airport out of service. On March 7, three people were killed in a raid on the airport.

Two weeks later, strikes targeted the airport and arms depots of pro-Iranian groups in its surroundings, killing four according to the OSDH, based in the United Kingdom and which has an extensive network of sources. in Syria.

Iran-backed militias have a strong presence in the Aleppo region and provided essential ground support to the Syrian army during the recapture of rebel-held areas of the city in 2016.

The war in Syria, sparked in 2011 by the crackdown on pro-democracy protests, has claimed more than half a million lives and displaced several million people.

28/08/2023 16:48:33 - Checkers (AFP) -  2023 AFP
Foxconn founder, billionaire Terry Gou, on Monday announced his official candidacy for Taiwan's 2024 presidential election as an independent, vowing to bring peace with China.

"I have decided to participate in the presidential election of 2024 and present my candidacy," he said at a press conference.

The presidential election in Taiwan will take place in January 2024. Current President Tsai Ing-wen is completing her second and final term.

"I implore the people of Taiwan to give me four years," added this businessman who has long displayed his presidential ambitions. However, he failed to secure the nomination of the Kuomintang (KMT), Taiwan's main opposition party. The KMT preferred a former police chief, Hou Yu-ih, now mayor of New Taipei City.

According to analysts, Gou's chances of success are slim against the other opposition candidates who will face Vice President Lai Ching-te, a member of the current president's Democratic Progressive Party and who is currently leading the polls.

Mr. Gou presented himself to the press as an official who could promote peace between Taiwan and China.

Relations between Beijing and Taipei soured in 2016 with the coming to power of President Tsai Ing-wen, who refuses any Chinese claim to Taiwan, a refuge for Chinese nationalists at the end of the civil war in China, won by the Communists in 1949.

China considers Taiwan as one of its provinces which it wants to return to its fold, if necessary by force, even if it says it favors a peaceful path.

"I promise to bring peace to the Taiwan Strait for the next fifty years and build the deepest foundations of mutual trust between the two sides," Gou also added at his press conference.

Currently Vice President Mr. Lai is the favorite in the polls followed by Ko Wen-je of the Taiwan People's Party and KMT Party leader Hou Yu-ih.

The KMT has also expressed "deep regret" about Mr. Gou's candidacy and called on him to support Hou. According to one of the KMT leaders, the arrival of Gou as an independent in the race for the presidency will create chaos in the opposition.

"It seems very unlikely for any opposition candidate to win the election," said Sung Wen-ti, a teacher specializing in Taiwan.

- Taiwan, next Ukraine?-

"In a four-candidate scenario, Gou's arrival can urgently prompt the opposition to regroup and work together," Sung added.

The billionaire promised he would "never let Taiwan become the next Ukraine" in reference to its invasion by Russia.

He also indicated that the opposition camp should "integrate and find candidates who meet the demands of the population".

Asked about his ties to the Chinese government given Foxconn's massive investments on the mainland, Mr. Gou recalled that he had not been involved in the management of the company for four years.

"I have never been under the control (of the Chinese Communist Party)", he clarified before assuring: "I will not be threatened".

However, the boss of Foxconn, who presents himself as independent, will still have to collect 290,000 signatures to be eligible. Mr. Gou has organized several election campaign-style events in Taiwan in recent months.

Foxconn - also known by its official name Hon Hai Precision Industry - is the world's largest contract electronics manufacturer and assembles devices for many companies, including Apple.

08/28/2023 14:07:08 - Taipei (AFP) -  2023 AFP
The defense ministers of the 27 have wanted to exhibit the Union's superiority in space with a meeting at the Satellite Center. It is a reserved place within the Torrejon Air Base from where all the satellites that the European Union has deployed in space are controlled. "The eyes of Europe", as defined by the High Representative of the Union, Josep Borrell, who chaired this meeting.

Currently, 85% of the satellites deployed in space are European. This supposes an autonomy of the EU, as well as an advantage at the level of aerial intelligence with respect to other countries. As Borrell has reported, every year the activity of this satellite center increases, and this 2023 they believe that they will issue 5,000 reports, many of them with images obtained in just 24 hours. "We need to know what happens, especially when there is a war," Borrell acknowledged.

Because the Russian invasion of Ukraine has conditioned the entire foreign policy of the European Union and the entire world, divided into two blocs. That is why continuing to support Zelensky will be the focus of the informal inter-ministerial meetings that the Defense and Foreign Ministers will have on August 30 and 31 in Toledo.

Already this Tuesday in Torrejon the subject on which part of the conversations have focused has been Ukraine. "The entire EU is supporting Ukraine and we will continue to do so, because by supporting Ukraine we are supporting the values of peace, freedom and democracy", said the Spanish Defense Minister, Margarita Robles, after the meeting of the Board of Directors of the Satcen, where 18 ministers of the 27 of the Union have been present.

This European center based in Spain serves to provide information to the entire European Union, as well as to the countries that request help from the corporation. "Thanks to this we have a precise vision of what is happening in Ukraine, we can keep our knowledge of what is happening in the South, the Mediterranean and Africa up to date, especially in the Sahel, the Gulf of Guinea or the Indian Ocean, and respond quickly and effectively to critical situations, such as the need to evacuate European citizens from conflict zones, as has recently happened in Sudan and Niger", the minister described.

The center has become an indispensable aid in providing information to Ukraine so that it can plan its movements on the ground. In fact, in 2022 - the year in which SATCEN celebrated its 30th anniversary - its work increased by 70% coinciding with Putin's aggression. This year its work continues to increase, with its eyes focused on Ukraine, but also with a look at the Sahel.

After finishing the meeting of the Satcen board of directors, the representatives of the European Union countries traveled by bus to the Parador de Toledo, where the activities for the inter-ministerial meeting continued. Throughout Wednesday the 30th there will be two work sessions, the first one on Ukraine, which shows the European Union's commitment to Zelensky.

It is no coincidence that on Monday Minister Robles was awarded the distinction of honor from the Ukrainian Defense Ministry. During that act, the minister announced that her counterpart, Oleksi Reznikov, will participate by videoconference in the work session this Wednesday. Thus, they give a preferential place, like one more, to Ukraine within the meeting of the 27 in Toledo.

There will be a second working session focused on the situation in Niger. In it, the countries will analyze the need to maintain the mission in Mali, where Spain is the majority force, and which ends in May 2024.

On Thursday, the foreign affairs ministers, hosted by Jose Manuel Albares and once again led by Josep Borrell, will participate in an inter-ministerial meeting in their area. In it, the Ukrainian Foreign Minister, Dmitro Kuleba, who announced a tour of Europe that began on Monday in Prague, continued in Paris and will end in Toledo, will be in person. Kuleba's intention is to close new military cooperation with the countries that are collaborating with Ukraine, so that Toledo can leave with some European agreement and new packages regarding the war, despite the fact that they are informal meetings in which they do not usually materialize agreements.

The European Union has strongly condemned the war in Ukraine since the beginning of the invasion. In fact, Europe launched a mission to train Ukrainian troops. Thus, newly recruited soldiers are instructed in basic training in target practice, strategies and first aid, as well as specific training in handling weapons donated by the countries.

As Reznikov revealed, Spain was the key for Germany to authorize the shipment of the Leopard tanks, which are already operating on the ground and which represented a turning point in the support of Europe. Now Zelensky aspires for a massive fighter shipment to materialize, although for the moment not all countries have given in to that request.

This Tuesday, at the European Union Satellite Center, Minister Robles once again showed support for Ukraine and wanted to condemn the attacks and threats Borrell received from Vladimir Solovyov, a Russian presenter known as 'the voice of Putin' because of his closeness to the president. "I would like to remember here the idiot Borrell, the enemy of the Russian people," she said, among other statements in which she even stated that she wanted him to put "the spawn of Satan" on his grave.
The Russian security services (FSB) said on Monday that they had arrested a Russian citizen, a former employee of American diplomacy in Russia, accused of having transmitted to the United States information on the conflict in Ukraine. In a statement, the FSB said that Robert Chonov, "ex-employee of the American Consulate General in Vladivostok", had collected since September 2022 until his arrest, on an unspecified date, information for American diplomacy.

This information concerned "the conduct of the special military operation [in Ukraine], the [military] mobilization in the Russian regions" and "the problematic elements and the assessment of their influence on the protests of the population in view of the presidential election in Russia in 2024.

According to the FSB, he carried out these alleged activities "for material compensation" and at the request of "employees of the political service of the American Embassy in Moscow Jeffrey Sullin and David Bernstein". This Washington "informant", according to the FSB, is charged with "confidential collaboration with a foreign government", a crime punishable by eight years in prison. Russia's Interfax news agency claimed the FSB released a video in which the suspect made a confession.

Russian authorities, especially since the start of the offensive against Ukraine in February 2022, very regularly arrest people accused of working for kyiv or carrying out espionage activities for the benefit of Western governments.
After several weeks of fierce fighting on the country's southern front, the Ukrainian army has managed to liberate the village of Robotyne. An essential strategic victory for kyiv, which hopes that this reconquest will allow it to provide impetus to its difficult counter-offensive.

This area of the front is the axis of attack towards the cities of Tokmak and then Melitopol in an attempt to break the territorial unity of the areas occupied by the Russians in the south and east with Crimea, annexed in 2014.

Russia meanwhile continued its bombing, which killed at least three people in a village in the center, in the Poltava region.

Moscow also claimed on Monday that it had launched two fighter jets to intercept over the Black Sea, near Crimea, two American reconnaissance drones, a type of incident that has become frequent in recent months. Since the launch of their counter-offensive in June, the Ukrainian forces have been advancing only slowly, as they are confronted with extremely dense fortified lines of defence.

In kyiv, it is stressed that the assault is part of a long-term strategy and that the army is advancing slowly but surely. With the capture of Robotyne, however, the Ukrainian military hope to be in a position to drive a wedge into the front, even if in front of them still stand trenches, anti-tank fortifications and minefields.

Kiev fears that Russia will now send tens of thousands of troops into the northeast in order to break through the front and force Ukraine to turn away from its main axes of attack in the south.
"If France had not intervened, if our soldiers had not fallen on the field of honor in Africa, if [the military operations] Serval then Barkhane had not been decided upon, we would not be talking today about Mali, nor from Burkina Faso, nor from Niger", declared this Monday August 28 the French president in front of the French ambassadors gathered in Paris for their annual conference. "These states would no longer exist today within their territorial limits," he said, insisting that France had intervened against the jihadists at the request of these Sahelian countries.

Nigerien soldiers, who seized power in Niamey on July 26, have since been holding the ousted President Mohamed Bazoum prisoner. And they have taken France, the former colonial power, as their preferred target, while Paris is calling for a return to constitutional order and remains in contact with President Bazoum, elected in 2021.

On Friday evening, tensions rose a notch when the military gave French ambassador Sylvain Itte 48 hours to leave the territory, which Paris refused, arguing that this government was illegitimate and had no authority to found such a request.

Emmanuel Macron praised the work of the ambassador and let it be known that he was still in Niamey. France and diplomats have been confronted in recent months with situations in certain particularly difficult countries, whether in Sudan where France has been exemplary, in Niger at this very moment and I salute your colleague and your colleagues who have been listening since their position, he said.

Paris, on the other hand, suspended its development aid and military cooperation, without denouncing the existing defense agreements with Niger as demanded by the military in Niamey.

Concretely, some 1,500 French soldiers are still present in Niger, which has become the pivot of its anti-jihadist system in the Sahel, but they now fear having to pack up. In Mali and Burkina Faso, where successive coups d'etat took place, France had to resolve last year to withdraw its troops and it no longer has an ambassador there.

The French leader has in passing tackled Washington - which has 1,100 soldiers in Niger - and certain European countries which advocate a diplomatic solution to the crisis. "From Washington to other European capitals, I heard voices, I listened to newspapers [] telling us 'don't overdo it, it's getting dangerous'", he underlined . It has been said that France was too committed in supporting President Bazoum [] What would we do if a coup happened in Bulgaria or Romania? he snapped. "It looked like we're going to look because they offered us a Prime Minister? "We don't do double standards," he said.

Mohamed Bazoum is "a man of integrity, democratically elected, courageous", he said. "Because he does not resign, risking his life [...], we are told that the good policy would be to drop him because it has become fashionable, because in fact we should produce locally now, even when they are putschists, he quipped.

Emmanuel Macron immediately called on the leaders of the region to take more responsibility in the face of "an epidemic of putschs throughout the Sahel", believing that "the heart of the response" should be political. "I call on all the States in the region to have a responsible policy", insisted Emmanuel Macron, recalling that "we support the diplomatic action, and when it decides it military, of the ECOWAS [Economic Community of the States of West Africa, editor's note], in a partnership approach".

Regarding French policy in Africa, he advocated "neither paternalism nor weakness because otherwise we are nowhere", while this week demonstrations could take place in front of the base where French troops are stationed to demand their departure.

Just hours after this speech, the European Union expressed its "full support" for the French Ambassador to Niger. "The decision of the putschists to expel the French ambassador is a new provocation which can in no way help to find a diplomatic solution to the current crisis," said EU diplomatic service spokeswoman Nabila Massrali. in a press release. "The European Union does not and will not recognize the authorities that emerged from the coup in Niger," she recalled.
Emmanuel Macron receives, Wednesday, August 30, in Saint-Denis, the parties represented in Parliament, from La France insoumise (LFI) to the National Rally (RN). With this rout, the Head of State wants to build legislative texts "together" and plans, "if necessary", to hold referendums.

Proof that "no door is closed", on the content of the discussions as on the form of their concretization, the spokesman of the government, Olivier Veran, describes a president "open, and why not even [on the organization ] of the preferendum". It is a concept that would allow us to test several subjects at the same time during the same vote, developed the Minister Delegate for Democratic Renewal, on August 28 on BFM-TV. For example, you can ask multiple questions to French people. 

Ecology, security, immigration, institutions, education: Emmanuel Macron opened wide the field of subjects that will be on the table on Wednesday in Seine-Saint-Denis. Olivier Veran took care not to specify those who could be the subject of a "preferendum". Nor did he really present the conditions for organizing this still hypothetical consultation. Just the elected official of Isere praised it as a means of circumventing the "reproach often made in the referendum": transforming the vote into a personal plebiscite of the citizens for the President of the Republic. "By asking several questions [at the same time], people will perhaps let go of an item [subject] and be able to answer in substance on all the other questions", envisaged Olivier Veran.

By "several questions" in a single ballot, the former health minister means the simultaneous holding of referendums in different areas. The ten referendums called since 1958  the last in 2005 on the European Constitution  all focused on a single subject. But nothing as it stands would prevent several from being organized on the same day.

Article 11 of the Constitution allows the Head of State to submit to referendum "any bill" on strictly defined subjects: "organization of public powers"; "reforms relating to the economic, social or environmental policy of the nation and to public services"; "ratification of a treaty". "Any draft law": the supreme norm of French law does not limit, in principle, the number of texts possibly debated during a consultation.

In several decisions (rendered on June 26, 1987 and May 4, 2000), the Constitutional Council ruled, however, that the question asked during a referendum had to "satisfy the double requirement of fairness and clarity of the consultation" and not " be ambiguous", neither on the meaning of the question asked, nor on the scope of the consultation. "The requirement for clarity is appreciated not only for each question, but also on the whole of the consultation if they are multiple", specifies Bertrand Mathieu, professor of constitutional law at the University of Paris-I-Pantheon-Sorbonne, doubtful on the possibility of questioning citizens, at the same time, on subjects as varied as the environment and security, or institutions.

Device without any legal translation, the term "preferendum" - handled without further precision by Olivier Veran - can also evoke a mode of consultation carried for several years by the defenders of a "democratic renewal", the citizen consultation. In a column published in February 2019 in Le Monde, the Better Voting association, deploring in particular the "binary logic" of the referendum, pleaded for the establishment of a "preferendum". Or a "tool for pacification and building consensus" which, for the classic alternative, between "yes" or "no", would substitute the mentions provided for by the majority judgment ("excellent", "good", "passable" , "insufficient", "to be rejected").

Voting Better took taxation and the environment as an example. Rather than asking people if they are "for" or "against" a fuel tax, they would be asked to express their opinion on several ways to tax fuel and energy, each of which they should evaluate ( "What do you think of a tax on fuel for cars only?"; "a tax on kerosene for planes?"; "a full redistribution of revenue to households or an investment in the ecological transition ? ", etc.).

If this is the device addressed by Olivier Veran, a "preferendum" resulting from Wednesday's meeting would therefore offer citizens "several choices" on multiple subjects. All governed in the state of the law by no law, even less by the Constitution.

A "ex nihilo procedure, a kind of life-size survey organized by the State", according to the constitutionalist Bertrand Mathieu, who is already alerting to the lack of "security" of such a ballot. Insecurity first about the terms of the summons and the organization, recalls the lawyer. Insecurity especially about the fate of this "preferendum": nothing will bind the legislative and executive powers to its outcome, and no one will be able to seize the Constitutional Council to enforce the ballot boxes. We would end up with a gas plant with an unpredictable fate, all marked by a strong risk of confusion due to a misuse of the term referendum. 
Tata Passenger Electric Mobility on Tuesday unveiled a new brand identity as it gears up to introduce ten new battery electric vehicles by 2026.

As the EV offering grows, spurred by surging consumer demand and a robust, thriving product lineup, customers expect a unique experience across all touchpoints, from the brand to the product and its ownership cycle, Tata Passenger Electric Mobility, a unit of Tata Motors, said in a statement.

TATA.Ev, the new brand identity for the company's electric business, is the first step towards providing differentiated and meaningful experiences for customers in the form of a collective initiative to move towards an electric future, it added.

Tata Passenger Electric Mobility Head Marketing, Sales and Service Strategy Vivek Srivatsa said the automaker is entering a new era with TATA.Ev.

"Our new brand identity for electric vehicles underlines our commitment to accelerate the adoption of clean energy mobility solutions," he noted.

With a dominating market share of over 70 per cent in the four-wheeler EV segment, the automaker intends to drive a positive change in the automotive industry with the focus on sustainability, community, and technology, he added.

"Both the products and services are intended to create highly differentiated and meaningful consumer experiences. The brand personality is humane, honest, invigorating, and conversational  a rallying point for those curious about having a better impact on the world," Srivatsa stated.

Tata Passenger Electric Mobility Ltd, a subsidiary of Tata Motors with TPG Rise Climate as an investor, aims to invest USD 2 billion by 2026 to launch ten new electric vehicles, build a dedicated BEV architecture, support local manufacture of key components and development of advanced automotive and battery technologies.

It also intends to catalyse the creation of a widespread charging infrastructure as well as growth of other infrastructure to facilitate rapid EV adoption in India. Tata Motors expects electric vehicles to account for half of its passenger vehicle sales by 2030. The automaker aims to sell around 1 lakh EVs this year.

The company's current EV portfolio comprises the Nexon EV range, Tiago EV, Tigor EV and the XPRES-T EV.
Prakhhyat Group on Monday said it has partnered with a fund managed by Morgan Stanley Real Estate Investing to develop a warehousing project at Bhiwandi near Mumbai. The company did not disclose the amount of investment by Morgan Stanley Real Estate Investing (MSREI) but sources said it is around Rs 300 crore.

Prakhyat Group will develop a 0.7 million square feet Grade A warehousing space at its K Square Logistics Park in Bhiwandi, the company said in a statement.

This marks MSREIs entry in the Bhiwandi sub-market of Mumbai. With this, MSREI has invested in over 5.6 million sq ft of logistics assets across the country, it added.

The project, One K-Square, will be built across 25 acres. The development will offer warehousing solutions to institutional customers from e-commerce, 3PL players, FMCG and FMCD sectors, among others.

Prakhhyat Group will be the development manager and will be responsible for project execution, leasing, and asset management.

Through this partnership, we are thrilled to leverage our development expertise, along with MSREIs capabilities, as we create this marquee development in Indias most sought-after logistics sub-market, Prakhhyat Group Director Sandeep Bagla said.

MSREI India Vice President Anand Iyer said industrial and logistics as an asset class is a high conviction theme across its investment strategy.

Prakhhyat Groups K Square Logistics Park is spread over 156 acres with a total development potential of over 4 million sq ft.

Prakhhyat Group is a leading industrial and logistics developer with over 10 million sq ft of projects under various stages of development.

MSREI is the global private real estate investment management arm of Morgan Stanley with over USD 54 billion of assets under management.

According to real estate consultant Vestian, the leasing of warehousing space in Mumbai rose 75 per cent to 3.8 million sq ft during January-June this year from 2.2 million sq ft in the corresponding period of the previous year.

Indian warehousing and logistics sector is sailing through global headwinds on the back of strong and sustainable fundamentals. Several mega infrastructure projects are planned across the country to improve connectivity and reduce transit time, Vestian Chief Executive Officer Shrinivas Rao said.
Multiple Target department stores in New Jersey, North Carolina, Ohio and Wisconsin received bomb threats Tuesday.

Several locations in Charlotte, N.C. and near Cincinnati, Ohio were evacuated due to menacing messages, according to authorities.

This morning numerous bomb threats were made via email to various Target stories throughout Charlotte, the Charlotte Metropolitan Police Department posted online Tuesday. At this time, there is no indication of any validity to the threats.

Charlotte police noted there appears to be a trend of emails with similar threats made in other states today.

Ohio station WLWT reported retailers in Anderson Township, Colerain Township and Warren County were temporarily cleared out as were two Target locations in Cincinnati.

Heightened police activity was reported in Middletown, N.J., where a store was threatened around 11 a.m., according to local site Tap Into Middletown. That Target operates roughly 40 miles south of New York City.

Police in New Berlin, Wisc., said Tuesday a bomb squad from Milwaukee came to their assistance after a generic email threatened a Target store shortly before 10 a.m. A search of that store revealed the threat to be a hoax posing no threat to the public.

A similar rash of bomb threats against the Minnesota-based retailer disrupted operations in June while Target was celebrating Pride Month. Promotions geared toward the LGBTQ+ community stoked a fire under right-wing activists, resulting in aggression toward some of Targets nearly 2,000 U.S. stores.

That same month, The Washington Post reported Target operations in at least five states were evacuated during that wave of bomb threats, however no explosives were found.

Its unclear if Tuesdays threats were connected to right-wing extremism. Retailers nationwide are busily pushing back-to-school deals. New York City students return to their classrooms next week.
ISRO has accomplished remarkable progress in space exploration and requires more funding to sustain its work

India successfully landed the Chandrayaan 3 spacecraft on the Moon last week. It is the fourth country to do so. Congratulations to ISRO for this achievement, which fills every Indian with pride. Scientists worldwide are especially interested in the Moon's South Pole region.

The Chandrayaan 3 success has boosted India's soft power prestige, especially considering its failed attempt in 2019. The victory is sweeter since it happened shortly after Russia's unsuccessful attempt at a lunar landing.

The United States was the first to land humans on the Moon in 1969. NASA, the American space research organisation, achieved this extraordinary accomplishment through the Apollo Program over 50 years ago. With technological advancements, the interest in exploring the Moon and the other planets is growing in other countries also.

We owe this moment of success to our great scientists and visionary leaders, such as our first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru. The contributions of his successors, including Prime Minister Modi, have been instrumental in maintaining this success.

The Moon always fascinated us as kids. Many children innocently attempted to touch it. Our mothers and grandmothers shared beautiful stories. They struck a relationship with the Moon and called it Chandamama (Moon Uncle) . Indians have known astronomy for centuries. There were renowned astronomers such as Aryabhatta, Varahamihira, and Brahmagupta. Our ancestors held a profound respect for celestial bodies. They believed in a four-tiered universe consisting of the Earth, the middle region, Indra's heaven, and the higher heaven of the immortals. According to the Rig Veda, the Sun is at the centre of the solar system, with all other planets revolving around it.

People used the Moon's phases for centuries to make the lunar calendar. It was an essential tool in their daily lives. It's still noticeable today, even though it's not widely used anymore. Air Force pilot Rakesh Sharma made history by becoming the first Indian to embark on a space mission to the Salyut 7 space station, an invitation extended by the Soviets. His mission in 1984 lasted for seven days, twenty-one hours, and forty minutes. This accomplishment opened the doors to outer space research, thanks to the ISRO.

Even politicians use the Moon to bribe their voters. In the 2021 Tamil Nadu Assembly election campaign, Thulam Saravanan, an independent candidate, made an exceptional pledge to his voters. He promised a trip to the Moon if he won, but his voters knew it was an empty promise. What inspires individuals to venture into outer space? It's a natural curiosity and fascination with the unknown. Throughout history, people have explored and discovered new frontiers. Our quest for planets outside our solar system has grown significantly in recent years.

Space exploration inspires motivation and provides better communication on robotics and advanced science. It also facilitates collaboration in science, technology, and diplomacy. Additionally, it can enhance resource extraction, human habitation, and long-term space-living research. Scientists believe there is water ice on the Moon. It could be utilized for fuel and living spaces. The objective of the Chandrayan 3 is to locate these deposits and study them.

The possibility of establishing a base on the Moon is also being explored. Studying the Moon is crucial for investigating other planets, including Mars. Technological advancements and lower exploration expenses have increased the Moon research. Utilizing the Moon as a launching platform promotes space tourism.

The demand for satellite imaging, positioning, and navigation data is high, leading to significant growth in the space economy. The global space industry will reach USD 546 billion by the year-end of 2023. India's space industry is valued at $8 billion, representing just a 2% share of the global space economy. Since 1999, the country has launched 381 foreign satellites for 34 countries, earning $279 million. With the success of the Chandrayan 3 Mission, there is potential for a further boost to India's space economy.

Exploring the Moon and other planets is a significant investment for the US and Russia. In July 2023, India joined China and Russia in the race to build infrastructure on the Moon with the development of the International Lunar Research Station. This Moon base is under construction.

India's space programme received early support from the US, Russia, and France. It has experienced both achievements and obstacles over time. Since its creation in the 1960s, ISRO has made noteworthy advancements and strengthened its partnership with NASA. Thanks to its cost-effective programs, it has conducted missions to explore the Moon and Mars, including Chandrayan3.

There is a debate about whether we should invest more money into space exploration or concentrate on solving problems here on Earth. Some people think that space research deserves more financial support, while others believe that we should deal with issues on our planet before anything else. Nonetheless, it's clear that ISRO has accomplished remarkable progress in space exploration and requires more funding to sustain its work. The present success will also enhance ISRO's standing in the global space industry.

(The writer is a popular columnist. The views expressed are personal)
India and the member nations must ensure that BRICS is not used as a geopolitical tool by China to further its hegemonic designs

The BRICS summit in South Africa is being termed historic, mainly because it has been agreed that six new nations will be added to the BRICS in the days to come. China wanted to even include Pakistan in the folds of BRICS, but India stood its ground. Is China trying to establish its geo-political agenda by using the BRICS nations? What is the reason for the selection of the said six nations into the folds of BRICS? Most of these nations are part of the One Belt One Road project of China and have proximity to China in one way or the other. Come to think of it, is it China that is calling the shots at the BRICS? Russia and Chinas ties are at their historic best right now and with the physical absence of Russian President Vladimir Putin from the summit, the outcome of the summit was largely in the hands of two other big players, that is, India and China. But has India emerged strategically stronger or is it that China leveraged BRICS to its advantage? This is a moot point and the real question.

Of the six nations in question, Iran is very close to China, both officially and unofficially. In March 2021, Iran and China signed a 25-year cooperation agreement to include political, strategic and economic components. China and Saudi Arabia too are strategic allies and the two nations have seen more cooperation in the energy and financial sectors, the Belt and Road Project, and have also signed numerous deals across several areas. The other Asian country UAE almost has 'brotherly' ties with China. Successive visits by Chinese President Xi Jinping and Vice President Wang Qishan elevated China-UAE relations to a new height. The UAE is also a strong supporter of the Belt and Road Project.

In South America, Argentina has been virtually provided with a leased line by China to the tune of $18 billion to help its dwindling forex reserves. This has made the two countries reshape their relationship. Egypt has always been very close to China. Recently, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi said, Egypt will continue its firm adherence to the one-China principle and resolutely oppose any external forces to interfere in China's internal affairs. Egypt and China have achieved fruitful results in jointly advancing the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and Egypt welcomes more Chinese enterprises to invest and set up businesses in the country. On the other hand, the other African nation Ethiopia was virtually saved from US sanctions by China. China has thereafter made Ethiopia a major manufacturing hub for its companies. According to data from the China-Africa Research Initiative, Chinese loans to Ethiopia amounted to a total of 13.729 billion USD from 2000 to 2019.

Though the relationship of all these six nations with India is friendly, these nations seem to be comfortable peddling the Chinese agenda and are more or less at ease with its 'One China' ideology. All of them support the One Belt One Road project and also have exclusive ties with China. So, has India unknowingly supported the Chinese agenda of creating a Chinese-led group that counterbalances the influence of the West?

How does the expansion of the BRICS help India? The importance of BRICS is likely to increase in the years to come since it already constitutes 40% of the world's population and 25% of the global GDP. China is using this fact to give support to its sagging economy. Is India already at the threshold of exploiting its demographic dividend and making that expansion add to its geopolitical and economic might? Our young population is our strength, but have we reached a stage where we can exploit this to make our manufacturing sector better than China and then leverage this expansion of BRICS to our advantage? Perhaps, that may be the case, but the answer to these questions should be pondered over at the highest level of Indias foreign ministry, for the answers to these questions will determine the future of BRICS.

It is no secret that India's relationship with China has been at a low ebb after the Galwan clash. In such a scenario, India needs to be cautious and calculative of any major structural change in common forums with China. It is also a fact that China has a much bigger economy than India, with their GDP being almost five times more. China at present also contributes towards 28% of global manufacturing whereas India contributes around 4%, China wants to use this headstart and leverage this expansion to further its economic domination.

All the six nations added to BRICS are strategically located to boost trade routes, and all of them have important seaports. These ports are strategically important for trade and also for Naval use. It is also established that China has the largest Navy and maritime fleet in the world and hence is in a better position to exploit these ports to boost its trade and geo-political expansion.

Therefore, adding six countries that share close relationships with China in BRICS needs to be further evaluated from a strategic and economic point of view. India needs to be cautious, for it should not fall into the trap of being put under pressure to be a part of the 'One Belt One Road' Project in the future. China's decoupling from the West is making it bend backwards to accommodate new partners in Asia, Africa and South America, however, India must try and bring countries like Singapore and South Korea into the folds of BRICS. We should also make sure BRICS is not used as a geopolitical tool by China in the future. We should ensure that important trade routes by sea should not become a hegemony of a particular country in the future and BRICS is not used as a tool to do that.
As the legal battle unfolds, the Madhumita Shukla murder case continues to be a potent symbol of the complex intersect between politics and crime in India

The nation's collective conscience was stirred as the infamous Madhumita Shukla murder case returned to the forefront of public consciousness. The Uttar Pradesh government's recent decision to release former minister Amarmani Tripathi and his wife Madhumani Tripathi, both of whom had been serving life sentences for their roles in the murder, has sparked a storm of controversy. Opposition parties are demanding answers, and the Supreme Court has stepped in, issuing a notice to the Uttar Pradesh government.

In a surprising turn of events, the Supreme Court has declined to halt the release order, opening the door to further legal scrutiny and public debate. This development has sent shockwaves through political circles and society at large, igniting a firestorm of outrage and disbelief.

While the state government argues that the couple's release is based on their good behaviour during imprisonment, critics contend that the gravity of the crime demands a more substantial explanation.

The Madhumita Shukla murder case, which initially unfolded on May 9, 2003, appeared to be a straightforward case of robbery. However, as investigators delved deeper, they unearthed a web of intrigue that sent shockwaves through the political landscape of Uttar Pradesh.

The victim, Madhumita Shukla, was far from ordinary; she was a celebrated poetess with influential connections in political circles. What added an extra layer of scandal to the case was the revelation that Amarmani Tripathi, a prominent political figure, was deeply embroiled in the crime. Tripathi's political clout transcended party lines, earning him a secure cabinet position regardless of the ruling party.

The Madhumita Shukla murder case, which shook the nation, involved the cold-blooded killing of the young poetess on May 9, 2003, in Peppermill Colony, Lucknow. The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) conducted a thorough investigation, leading to the filing of a chargesheet against Amarmani and Madhumani Tripathi, along with other accused, in the Dehradun court.

The case took a dramatic turn when an innocuous comment in the postmortem report unveiled a startling revelationMadhumita Shukla was pregnant when she was murdered. Subsequent DNA testing unequivocally established Amarmani as the father of the unborn child. In response to growing opposition pressure for a thorough investigation, then-Chief Minister Mayawati's government reluctantly recommended a CBI inquiry.

Amarmani held the position of a minister when Madhumita met her tragic end. Her domestic help eventually exposed the romantic connection and public liaison between the poetess and the minister. Subsequently, Chief Minister Mayawati entrusted the case to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). Initially, Amarmani denied any involvement with Madhumita. However, when a DNA test confirmed his paternity, he acknowledged their relationship.

The CBI's relentless pursuit of the truth unravelled a compelling tapestry of evidence that firmly implicated Amarmani and his wife Madhumani in the murder. While Amarmani was apprehended, Madhubani fled to Nepal, triggering an extensive manhunt.

Even Madhumita's servant, Deshraj, remained a fugitive until he was eventually captured in Lucknow. Deshraj's startling revelations about the intimate relationship between Amarmani and Madhumita played a pivotal role in solving the case.

The investigation exposed a sinister conspiracy orchestrated by Madhubani, driven by jealousy over Amarmani's relationship with Madhumita. Allegations of witness intimidation during the CBI probe prompted the case's transfer to a fast-track court in Dehradun. In 2007, this court delivered a verdict that sent shockwaves across the nation  Amarmani, Madhumani, nephew Rohit Chaturvedi, and shooter Santosh Rai were sentenced to life imprisonment.

In an ironic twist, another shooter, Prakash Pandey, was acquitted due to insufficient evidence. However, the Nainital High Court later reversed this decision, finding Prakash Pandey guilty and sentencing him to life imprisonment, a decision that ultimately led to his release on bail.

Madhumita's sister revealed persistent threats against their family, which continued even after the case was transferred out of Uttar Pradesh. She even said after the release of Amarmani Tripathi from jail, her family will continue to live under the threat.

The release of Amarmani Tripathi and Madhumani Tripathi has not only reopened old wounds but has also raised profound questions about justice, crime, and the intricate interplay between politics and the judiciary in India. It casts a long shadow on the boundaries of justice and the pursuit of truth in our society.

(The writer is Political Editor, The Pioneer, Lucknow. Views expressed are personal)
Given the changed dynamics in Myanmar, supporting the Military regime appears to be a lost cause as its decline and fall are inevitable

Oftentimes, we fail to see the forest for the trees. Manipur is one such example. Our focus on the trouble there has been so intense that we have all but ignored the bigger picture of what is happening in the neighbourhood, especially Myanmar, which is deeply embroiled in the happenings in Manipur and the North East in general.

Ever since it gained Independence in 1948, Myanmar has had a very chequered history with the military having intervened on numerous occasions. The coup of 1962 set the stage for the military to assume power, which it has never relinquished fully, despite a nominal return to democracy following the uprising of 1988 and again in 2010 that led to the formation of civilian-led governments. Once again in the General Elections of 2020, Aung San Suu Kyis National League for Democracy (NLD) won a clear majority, but its government was overthrown by the military Junta led by Senior General Min Aung Hlaing which continues to rule.

The major ethnic group in Myanmar are the Bamar who constitute nearly 68% of the population, who mainly live in the vast central and coastal plains of the country. Numerous other ethnic groups make up the rest of the population, among which the Shan, Kachin and Chin are the more populous ethnicities that mainly live in the hilly regions, bordering Thailand, China, India and Bangladesh. In fact, before Independence, the Panglong Agreement was negotiated between General Aung San, the leader of Burma, and the Shan, Kachin and Chin leaders.

The Agreement provided for full autonomy for areas inhabited by these ethnic minorities, with the option to secede ten years after Independence. However General Aung San was assassinated in July 1947, just six months before Independence, and the Agreement was never honoured by his successor President U Nu. This, along with an insurgency fomented by the Communist Party of Burma (CPB) with the support of Communist China, have been the main drivers of the civil war that has raged since then. This was also the major reason for the deep divide between the ethnic minorities and the Bamar majority.

However, the rebellion following the coup of 2021 is substantively different from the past resistance that the Myanmar military has faced. For the first time, the majority Bamar population has allied itself with other rebellious ethnic groups to defeat the military Junta because of the atrocities that it has also been subjected to. The rebellion has coalesced with ethnic militias and political parties joining under the umbrella organisation, the National Unity Government (NUG), led by deposed Members of Parliament.

The fact that the Junta-led Myanmar Armed Forces draws much of its numbers from the Bamar community makes it particularly vulnerable in the present round of conflict as it is finding it extremely difficult to recruit soldiers. As a result, by some accounts, the Junta controls only the major population centres and between 40- 60% of the countryside. In the past three years over 23000 civilians have been killed, approximately 1.6 million internally displaced and around 55000 have fled to neighbouring countries, mainly India. This has adversely impacted its economy.

We share, approximately, a 1700 Km long border with Myanmar with around 135 ethnic groups living on both sides, the main ones being the Naga, Meitei and Kuki, though known by different names. For them, tribal loyalties and families on both sides of the border make it an artificial construct. A fact recognised by both governments which have mutually allowed free movement of people up to 16 Km on either side. This makes the border porous and whatever occurs on one side invariably impacts the other.

Not surprisingly, the troubles in Myanmar have led to approximately 45000 refugees seeking shelter here, mainly in Mizoram and Manipur, as the Kuki, Chin and Zo tribes have shared ethnicity. This aspect is also reflected in the ongoing internal conflict in Manipur in which the Kuki community has been targeted by the Meitei majority on grounds of alleged illegal immigration by the Chins and their involvement in poppy cultivation. The situation is further complicated by the fact that the Meiteis in Myanmar are allied with the Chinese-supported Junta, while the Chins are arraigned against them. If that were not enough, we have elements within the Naga and Meitei population that have been fighting for secession for decades.

In the circumstances, our siding with the Myanmarese Military over the years was understandable as it ensured they didnt add to our troubles by supporting secessionist elements here.

However, given the changed dynamics in Myanmar, supporting the Military Junta appears to be a lost cause as its decline and fall are inevitable in the long run. Till the situation stabilises, which is possible only after the military is removed, our act East policy is a non-starter. While we will face some difficulties in the interim, it is time for us to change horses and focus on supporting the NUG. In any case, the increasing presence of rebel forces in the Sagaing Region, bordering India, suggests the decreasing influence of the Army, and in turn, its ability to support elements inimical to us.

(The author, a military veteran, is a Visiting Fellow with the Observer Research Foundation and a Senior Visiting Fellow with the Peninsula Foundation, Chennai)
Early childhood development is a must for India's progress. It is therefore crucial to ensure the well-being of every child in the country

Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) is a crucial component in shaping the future of a nation. In India, a country with a large and diverse population, investing in ECCE is vital for its progress. By providing care, nutrition, education, and a supportive environment, India can shape a brighter future. The country hosts a staggering population of 250 million children aged 0-8, thus, investing in their well-rounded development becomes essential as they will shape the future of the nation, contributing to the vision of a New India. The next 25 years are important for India and our yuva shakti will be the driving force of this transformation, the foundation for which has to be laid today. With this investment, India can promote social mobility, mitigate the ruralurban divide, and build a prosperous nation with empowered citizens.

The importance of ECCE in India cannot be overstated. According to various studies, a significant part of brain development happens before 6 years of age, typically over 85%. These are crucial years for the holistic growth of children as they form the foundation for future learning, cognitive abilities, behaviour, and health. With the various disruptions to early care and education faced during the pandemic, reemphasizing focus in this area becomes all the more important.

Amongst the numerous long-term benefits of primary care and education are enhanced grasping power, and improved outcomes at all educational levels which will eventually lead to higher employability and an improved quality of life. Access to quality early education, proper nutrition, and healthcare services are important components that can help our youth achieve their full potential.

Apart from the effect early childhood care has on early education, from a health standpoint, healthy children grow into healthy adults, reducing the burden on healthcare systems and enhancing productivity. With an improved focus on early childhood development, India can improve the overall health and well-being of its population.

While the Indian government has made great strides in the realm of ECCE in recent years, exemplified by initiatives such as the renewed National Education Policy, which laid more emphasis on the universalisation of primary childhood care, Poshan Abhiyaan, Saksham Aanganwadis, and Beti Bachao Beti Padhao, there still exists a pressing need for collective action.

Fostering public-private partnerships can contribute innovative solutions and models, ensuring holistic support and opportunities. Foundations, CSR, and philanthropic arms of corporate entities play an integral part in mobilizing additional resources for achieving the countrys development goals. Taking a collaborative approach will significantly expedite progress and also ensure sustainable outcomes for the development of children.

We have shining examples of collaborative efforts between organizations, governments, and communities in the impactful work carried out by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, implementing successful models for ECCE, especially in U.P. and Bihar. BMGF has championed innovative strategies to tackle child health and nutrition challenges. Similarly, UNICEF is contributing significantly towards uplifting the education scenario in the country with their motto of Education for all impacting children across 17 states. They have collaborated with the state governments and led community mobilization programmes where education indicators are below par.

Akshaya Patra places a strong emphasis on nutrition, as demonstrated by their Mid-Day Meal Scheme, which has ensured regular provision of nutritious meals to 2 million children every day, positively impacting their health, growth, and cognitive abilities. By integrating nutritious meals with education, the non-profit aims to eliminate classroom hunger, enrol more children in schools and reduce the dropout rate, impacting the overall well-being of children.

Another such example of a successful private-public partnership has been Vedanta's Nand Ghar project, a pan-India movement under the umbrella of Anil Agarwal Foundation, which aims to transform the anganwadis ecosystem. This would impact the lives of 2 crore women and 7 crore children through innovative solutions focused on health, nutrition, education, and women empowerment. The project involves revamping the government-run 'anganwadis' or rural day care centres and providing a class model for service delivery in remote villages across 14 states of India. Investing in early childhood development is not only a moral and social imperative but also important for ensuring a prosperous future for India. By prioritising PPPs, comprehensive policies and investments in early childhood development, India can unleash the full potential of its youngest citizens, and create a brighter future for generations to come.

(The writer is widely acclaimed as father of CSR in India. He was instrumental in framing the CSR guidelines for Public Sector Enterprises; views are personal)
We all share a common bond of love and empathy

Raksha Bandhan is one such festival that holds a special place in the hearts of all sisters and brothers because, on this day, they reinstate the commitment to their pure relationship. Sisters tie a decorated string around the wrists of their brothers, thereby metaphorically strengthening the bond of love that exists in their relationship and return, the brothers make a promise to the sisters to safeguard them against all threats, whether physical or financial. The beauty of this divine bond between brother & sister is that it is guaranteed without uttering a single word. The simple gesture of tying the thread, exchanging sweets and sometimes a little pocket money simply endorses that relationship & does it all!

With time, this festival has acquired different expressions and connotations. However, one wonders as to why and how it all began. Not long ago, during the times of royal dynasties in India, a similar kind of event used to be held in the presence of a family priest. And even now it happens in many South Indian families. The priest, after offering some formal prayers, would tie a sacred thread to all the family members thus figuratively signifying that they are protected against all evils. This also used to be a tradition when the men of the family would set out for a battle. It is interesting to note how these people sincerely believed that a small string would be able to protect them from various kinds of dangers. Looking deeper, one would ponder whether it was just the string or was it the extent of pure energised intentions and good wishes that went with it.

Sadly, today we seem to have lost the degree of self-conviction, and pure vision that we had for the traditions as well as love for our family members, till a few hundred years back. But, the question that arises is that what is the real reason behind this change in the mindset of our civilization? Some people blame the modern or urban lifestyles and claim that it is due to exposure to Western ways that we Indians are losing our cultural roots. But we must not forget that it works both ways. It is right that we are exposed to a much greater diversity of cultures and ways of thinking and living than any of our past generations. But at the same time, this exposure comes with a greater freedom to make a choice! Therefore, to say that we are behaving in this manner due to this or that or them is simply making excuses for our convenience.

After all, one's behaviour should be guided by one's own decisions and value systems and not by what others are expressing or following. Hence, the need of the hour is not to banish media or globalisation for that matter, but to focus on the restoration of human values and individual self-respect, because ultimately the seed of all our actions lies in the thought that our mind generates. And it is only when we consciously look into our thought patterns that we'll be able to rectify and make the right decisions. The understanding of the concept of soul and karma is very helpful when it comes to checking on our value base. The most important realisation that comes with the knowledge of the soul is that of universal brotherhood. And once we have realised this aspect then our feelings, vision and attitude towards others will automatically be respectful, tranquil & serene. So, while tying the sacred thread on the brother's hand, all the sisters should remind themselves as well as their brothers that we human souls are children of One Supreme and we are connected through spiritual brotherhood. By committing ourselves to values such as purity, honesty, respect, cooperation and compassion, we strengthen the bond of pure love with each other, for only pure thoughts and actions can ensure protection from hatred, violence and harm. So, let us take this opportunity of Raksha Bandhan to remind ourselves of the eternal truth of souls' brotherhood. And let us use this thread of divine love to enhance our inner attributes to a new height and thus ensure that we hold the purest and the most cherished feelings for all & forever.

(Writer is a spiritual educator & popular columnist for publications across India, Nepal & UK)
India and Kenya on Tuesday reviewed the entire gamut of their bilateral ties during talks here between Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Kenyan Cabinet Secretary for Defence Aden Bare Duale.

Both the Ministers agreed that the defence defence relationship between the two countries has evolved from being training-centric to include more strategic aspects.

Giving details of the parleys, Defence Mministry officials said Rajnath underscored the importance India attaches to the ties with African nations. In particular, the relationship between India and Kenya has been growing from strength to strength. The two Ministers also concurred on the need for deeper cooperation in maritime security of the Indian Ocean region.

Capacity building and cooperation in defence industry and equipment was also discussed at length by the two sides. A Memorandum of Understanding was signed between Goa Shipyard Ltd and Kenya Shipyard Limited in the field of capacity building and for collaboration in ship design and construction.

As a token of friendship, Rajnath presented 15 pairs of parachutes (main and reserve) manufactured by the Gliders India Limited to the Kenyan Cabinet Secretary for Defence for use by the Kenyan Forces. India also extended support towards setting up of an advanced CT scan facility in Kenya.

Aden Bare Duale appreciated the growing prowess of the Indian defence industry, including the private sector, and highlighted the areas in which the Indian industry can support the requirements of the Kenyan Forces. He also suggested training of trainers of Kenyan Forces by the instructors of Indian Armed Forces in order to maintain continuity and extract greater benefit out of such programmes.

Both sides agreed for joint training in counter insurgency and UN peacekeeping domains. Other regional security issues of mutual interest were also discussed during the meeting. Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan and Defence Secretary Giridhar Aramane also attended the meeting along with senior officials of Ministry of Defence, Ministry of External Affairs and Defence PSUs.

Kenyan Cabinet Secretary for Defence is on a 3-day visit to India. He will be visiting Indian shipyards and defence industries in Goa and Bengaluru during his stay.
Kenyas Cabinet Secretary for Defence, Aden Bare Duale arrived here on Monday on a three-day visit to India. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh will hold talks with him on Tuesday to review their ties.

Giving details of the Kenyan dignitarys schedule, defence ministry officials said here, he is expected to visit Indian shipyards and defence industries in Goa and Bengaluru during his stay.

This is the maiden visit of Cabinet Secretary Duale to India and the highest level stand-alone political visit from Kenya since the new government assumed office in September 2022. The visit is indicative of the importance India attaches to its relations with African nations and the growing cooperation between India and Kenya, in particular.

It is expected to open new avenues for further strengthening defence cooperation between the two countries, they said.
In a major relief to common people, particularly housewives on the eve of the festival of Raksha Bandhan, the Centre on Tuesday announced a Rs 200 per cylinder cut in prices of domestic cooking gas.

Among other measures, the Union Cabinet adopted a resolution hailing the soft-landing of Chandrayaan-3 on the lunar surface, saying the success of the mission is a victory not just for the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) but a symbol of Indias progress and ascent on the global stage. It also welcomed the fact that August 23 would be celebrated as National Space Day in the country from now on.

The decision of the Narendra Modi Government will bring down the price of domestic cylinder by Rs 200. At present, a 14.2-kg LPG cylinder in the national Capital costs Rs 1,103  more than double the rate it came for in May 2020.

It will cost Rs 903 when the decision is implemented from Wednesday. For Ujjwala beneficiaries, the price will be Rs 703 after considering the continuing Rs 200 per cylinder subsidy. Announcing the decision, Information and Broadcasting Minister Anurag Thakur said the move was aimed at providing relief to households. Also, the Government will provide an additional 75 lakh Ujjwala connections, which will take the total Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY) beneficiaries to 10.35 crore.

An official statement said, These decisions come as part of the Governments ongoing efforts to ease the financial burden on citizens and promote the welfare of households. The reduction in cooking gas prices reflects the Governments commitment to prioritise the well-being of its citizens and ensure access to essential commodities at reasonable rates.

Hailing the decision, Prime Minister Modi said in a post in Hindi on X, The festival of Raksha Bandhan is about increasing happiness within the family. The reduction in gas prices will provide more comfort to sisters in my family and make their life easier. May every sister of mine be happy and healthy, this is my wish from God.

Cooking gas prices have shot up in the last couple of years and have become a major election issue. Thakur, however, refused to link the decision with elections saying it was a gift from the Modi Government to women on the occasion of Onam and Raksha Bandhan.

It is not known how much the decision would cost the exchequer but Thakur said the Rs 200 per cylinder subsidy provided to Ujjwala consumers would cost Rs 7,680 crore in the current financial year ending March 31, 2024 (April 2023 to March 2024).

While Ujjwala beneficiaries are only 9.6 crore, there are some 31 crore domestic cooking gas users in the country.

The Government in June 2020 stopped giving LPG subsidies. Cooking gas across the country was priced at market rate, which rose to Rs 1,103 in the national Capital.

The only subsidy that was available was for poor women who got free connections under PMUY. The Government gave Rs 200 per cylinder subsidy for up to 12 refills in a year. This subsidy was transferred into the bank accounts of the beneficiaries, who bought LPG at market price from the dealer.

The move to cut prices by Rs 200 would bring back the subsidy regime unless the Government were to ask the oil companies to absorb the cut and not compensate them.

Continued on Page 2

centre gifts lpg price cut on rakhi

The Government in October 2022 provided a one-time grant of Rs 22,000 crore to oil companies to cover for the losses they had incurred on selling LPG at low cost in the previous two years.

On the other decision of the Cabinet , Thakur said the Cabinet congratulated the Indian Space Research Organisation(ISRO).

It thanked the scientists and noted that India has become the first country to land near the Moons south pole.

Landing on the moon, with predicted accuracy, in itself is a momentous achievement. Landing near the South Pole of the Moon, overcoming the arduous conditions, is a testament to the spirit of our scientists who since centuries have sought to push the boundaries of human knowledge, read the resolution.

The Cabinet said it believes that Indias advancements in the space sector are more than just monumental scientific achievements. They represent a vision of progress, self-reliance, and global leadership. This is also a symbol of the rising New India.

This Cabinet commends and appreciates every individual who has contributed to this landmark mission, acknowledging that Chandrayaan-3 is a glowing testament to what India can achieve with passion, perseverance and unwavering dedication, the resolution said.

The wealth of information being sent by the Pragyan rover from the Moon will advance knowledge and pave the way for ground-breaking discoveries and insights into the mysteries of the moon and beyond, the resolution said.

The Cabinet is proud to see that a large number of women scientists have contributed to the success of Chandrayaan-3 and Indias space programme in general. This will motivate several aspiring women scientists in the years to come, the resolution noted.

It also congratulated Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his visionary and exemplary leadership, and his unwavering commitment to Indias space programme for human welfare and scientific progress.

His faith in the capabilities of our scientists and his constant encouragement have always fortified their spirit, the Cabinet resolution pointed out.
After the stupendous success of Chandrayaan-3, which saw its spacecraft making a soft-landing on the lunar surface last Wednesday, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) on Monday declared that Indias first Solar Mission to study the Sun would be launched on September 2 at 11.50 AM from Sriharikota spaceport, the countrys gateway to Space. The flight has been named PSLV-C57 Aditya L1 mission.

The Aditya-L1 spacecraft is designed to provide remote observations of the solar corona and in-situ observations of the solar wind at the Sun-Earth Lagrange Point 1 (L1), which is about 1.5 million kilometres from Earth.

S Somanath, Chairman, ISRO said on Monday, A Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle XL rocket will carry Aditya-L1, the first Space-based Indian observatory, to study the Sun.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who flew down to ISRO headquarters straight from Athens early on Saturday morning to congratulate the scientists and engineers over the success of the soft landing on the Moons South Pole, had made it known that the country was all set for its mission to the Sun. With the launch of Aditya-L1, India would become the fourth space-faring nation in the world which has its eyes on the Sun, an eternally interesting and mysterious star which is home to fission as well as fusion reactions.

Aditya-L1 is a fully-indigenous effort with the participation of national institutions, an ISRO official said.

The Bengaluru-based Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA) is the lead institute for the development of the Visible Emission Line Coronagraph (VELC) payload while the Inter-University Centre for Astronomy and Astrophysics, Pune, has developed the Solar Ultraviolet Imaging Telescope (SUIT) payload for the mission.

According to ISRO, VELC aims to collect data to solve the mystery of how the temperature of the corona can reach about a million degrees Centigrade while the Suns surface itself stays just over 6,000 degrees. Aditya-L1 that would be stationed in a halo orbit around the L-1 would carry seven payloads to observe the photosphere, chromosphere and the corona  the outermost layers of the Sun  in different wavebands.

The observatory would have the major advantage of continuously viewing the Sun without any obstruction. This will help the scientists to observe the solar activities and the effect on Space weather in real time.

Aditya-L1 would have a life span of five years and two months. It will take 125 days for Aditya-L1 to get parked in the destined orbit and the VELC will be used for imaging and spectroscopy of the Sun to better understand the science powering the star. Apart from VELC, six other instruments will also explore the Sun. While four payloads would directly view the Sun from the unique vantage point of L1, the remaining three payloads will carry out in-situ studies of particles and fields at L1. Incidentally, the L1 point is currently home to NASAs Solar and Heliospheric Observatory Satellite.

Lagrange Points are positions in Space where the gravitational forces of the Sun and Earth produce enhanced regions of attraction and repulsion.

These can be used by spacecraft to reduce fuel consumption needed to remain in position. Lagrange Points were named so in honour of Italian-French mathematician Joseph Louis Lagrange.
A Tulsa, Okla., bank accused of refusing to lend money to Black and Latino residents has reached a settlement with the Justice Department.

American Bank of Oklahoma agreed to invest $1.15 million to increase credit opportunities in majority-Black and Hispanic neighborhoods in and around Tulsa, the Justice Department announced Monday.

This agreement will help expand investment in Black communities and communities of color in Tulsa and increase opportunities for homeownership and financial stability, said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke.

ABOK denied any wrongdoing, saying it only settled the claims to avoid a long legal battle.

The feds said between 2017 and 2021, ABOK flatly refused to provide mortgage loans in majority-Black and Hispanic communities. All of the banks branches were concentrated in majority-white neighborhoods, as it reinforced and perpetuated segregated housing patterns, the Justice Department said.

Investigators also found racist emails from bank employees and executives, according to the feds. In addition to the monetary commitments, the settlement requires the bank to launch a number of diversity and inclusion initiatives.

American Bank of Oklahoma engaged in the illegal practice of redlining and failed to serve the diverse members of our Tulsa community as they attempted to purchase homes, said U.S. Attorney Clinton Johnson.

Some of the neighborhoods previously cut off from ABOK loans were historically Black areas affected by the Tulsa race massacre of 1921. However, ABOK was founded decades later in 1998.

The Justice Department has launched a series of investigations into banks across the country that have been accused of redlining. The feds have previously announced significant settlements with Lakeland Bank in Newark and City National Bank in Los Angeles, among others.
Amid tension on the border in Ladakh and with Chinese President XI Jinping expected to attend the forthcoming G-20 summit in New Delhi in September, China has now come out with its standard map showing Arunachal Pradesh and Aksai Chin as part of its territory.

In a strong rebuff, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said that China has a habit of releasing such maps and told Beijing that merely including other countries territories in its maps meant nothing. Making this assertion in an interview to a private television channel on Tuesday, Jaishankar said, China has put out maps with territories (that are) not theirs. (It is an) old habit. Just by putting out maps with parts of India... this doesnt change anything. Our Government is very clear about what our territory (is). Making absurd claims does not make other peoples territories yours. He also de-linked disengagement talks along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with Chinas new map, the release of which was sandwiched between the G20 Summit in Delhi next weekend and last weeks informal conversation between Jinping and Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the BRICS Summit in South Africa.

Modi had then conveyed to Jinping, Indias concerns over unresolved issues along LAC and other areas along the Indo-China border.

Indian and Chinese troops clashed along the LAC in the states Tawang sector in December last year  a face-off that came amid a months-long border standoff in eastern Ladakh that prompted Delhi to bolster overall military readiness along the LAC in the Arunachal Pradesh sector as well.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh had charged China with trying to unilaterally change the status quo and, last month, Jaishankar said the situation remains very fragile and quite dangerous.

The 2023 edition of Chinas standard map was officially released late on Monday night and launched on the website of the standard map service hosted by the Ministry of Natural Resources, State-run Global Times said in a post on X.

This map is compiled based on the drawing method of the national boundaries of China and various countries in the world, the post said.

The map displayed by the Global Times showed Arunachal Pradesh, which China claims as South Tibet, and Aksai Chin, occupied by it in the 1962 war, as part of China.

India has repeatedly told China that Arunachal Pradesh was, is and will always remain an integral and inalienable part of India. The map also incorporates as Chinese territory the island of Taiwan and a large part of the South China Sea, both of which China has laid claim to.

China claims Taiwan as part of its mainland and its integration with the mainland is part of a vowed objective of Jinping.

Vietnam, the Philippines, Malaysia, Brunei and Taiwan have counterclaims over the South China Sea areas. Vietnam, the Philippines, Malaysia, and Brunei have all claims over the South China Sea areas.

Earlier this year in April, after China released a third set of names in Chinese, Tibetan and Pinyin characters for Arunachal Pradesh, External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Arindam Bagchi had asserted, Arunachal Pradesh has always been, and will always be an integral part of India.

While commenting on Chinas attempt to show its domination in places belonging to Indias Arunachal Pradesh said: This is not the first time that China has attempted something like this (changing the names of areas in Arunachal Pradesh) and we have already condemned any such attempts. Regarding Arunachal Pradesh, we had also said that Arunachal Pradesh is an inseparable part of India) and imposing invented names like these will not at all change the reality.

The latest map was released by Chinas Ministry of Natural Resources during the celebration of Surveying and Mapping Publicity Day and the National Mapping Awareness Publicity Week on Monday in Deqing county, Zhejiang province, as per China Daily newspaper.

Chief planner of Chinas Ministry of Natural Resources, Wu Wenzhong, said surveying, mapping and geographic information play an important role in boosting the development of the nation, meeting the needs of all walks of life, supporting the management of natural resources, and helping the construction of ecology and civilization.

The next step will be to accelerate the application of geographic information data such as digital maps and navigation and positioning in the development of the digital economy, such as location-based services, precision agriculture, platform economy and intelligent connected vehicles, Wu said, as per China Daily.

Zhejiang has in recent years focused on the deep integration of the digital and real economies and has continued to promote the development of the digital economy, according to Li Yaowu, deputy secretary-general of the Zhejiang Provincial Peoples Government.

Beijing had in April this year unilaterally renamed as many as 11 Indian locations, which included names of mountain peaks, rivers and residential areas.

This is not the first time that Beijing has employed such tactics. Previously in 2017 and 2021, Chinas Civil Affair Ministry had renamed other Indian locations triggering another political confrontation. New Delhi called out Chinas expansionist plans then.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday spoke with Russian President Vladimir Putin who conveyed his inability to attend the G20 Summit next month and said that Russia would be represented by Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov.

Tthe Prime Ministers Office (PMO) said in a statement, President Putin conveyed his inability to attend the G20 Summit in New Delhi on September 9-10, 2023 and informed that Russia would be represented by Foreign Minister of the Russian Federation, Sergey Lavrov.

The PMO said, While expressing an understanding of Putins decision not to attend the G20 Summit, Prime Minister Modi thanked the President for Russias consistent support on all initiatives under Indias G20 Presidency. The two leaders agreed to remain in touch, the statement added. Modi and Putin also reviewed progress on a number of issues of bilateral cooperation and exchanged views on regional and global issues of mutual concern, including the recently-concluded BRICS Summit in South Africas Johannesburg, the PMOs statement said.

The development comes after Kremlin had announced last Friday that President Putin would not personally attend the meeting of G20 leaders in Delhi. No, the President has no such plans, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov had said.

In a statement released on Monday, the Kremlin said that during the call between the two leaders, topical issues of "Russian-Indian relations, steadily developing in the spirit of the special and privileged strategic partnership, were touched upon. The positive dynamics of trade and economic cooperation was underscored. A mutual commitment to the consistent implementation of large-scale projects in the energy sector and joint work on the expansion of international transport and logistics infrastructure was expressed.

The Kremlin said Putin once again warmly congratulated Prime Minister Modi on the successful landing of the Chandrayaan-3 and that they reaffirmed their willingness to further develop bilateral cooperation in the space exploration sector.

The Kremlin also stated, The results of the BRICS summit in Johannesburg were discussed. The significance of the agreements reached, primarily, the expansion of BRICS, which will undoubtedly contribute to the growth of its influence in international affairs, was emphasised.

"The two sides agreed on close interaction in the context of Russia's BRICS chairmanship starting on January 1, 2024. An exchange of views was also held with regard to the forthcoming G20 summit in New Delhi," it added.
Chief Electoral Officer, Jharkhand Ravi Kumar said that all necessary measures are being taken by the Election Department to conduct peaceful, clean and fearless polling in 33 Dumri assembly constituency. He also said that a positive role of political parties is also expected in this direction. He informed that transparency is being ensured with the help of modern techniques for fair polling. Through webcasting, all the polling stations will be monitored by the Election Commission of India at the central, state and district levels.

Apart from this, a camera will also be installed outside the polling stations, so that the activities happening in the polling premises can also be monitored. He was addressing a meeting organized with representatives of all recognized political parties in the auditorium of his office at Dhurwa today. In the meeting, the representatives of all the major political parties were apprised of the instructions of the Election Commission of India for the 33rd Dumri Assembly elections.

The Chief Electoral Officer said that elaborate security arrangements have been made in Dumri assembly constituency for voting and counting. He said that the time for voting will be held from 7 am to 5 pm on Tuesday, September 5. The counting of votes is scheduled on September 8 from 8 am in the Agricultural Produce Marketing Committee located at Pachambha in Giridih. A total of 24 rounds of counting are to be done on 16 counting tables for the counting of votes.

In the meeting K. Ravi Kumar said that as per the instructions of the Election Commission of India, apart from voter ID card, Aadhaar card, MGNREGA card, passbook issued by bank/post office, health insurance smart card issued by labour department, driving license can be produced by the voters included in the voter list, PAN Card, Smart Card issued by RGI under NPR, Indian Passport, Pension Papers, Service ID Card of Central/State/PSU/Public Limited Company, Official ID Card issued by MP/MLA/MLC, UDID Card Can be used as an alternate ID card.

The Chief Electoral Officer said that any election including the results of any opinion poll or any other poll survey in any electronic media shall be published during the 48 hours ending at the time fixed for the conclusion of poll in the entire polling area of this bye-election. There will be a ban on the display of the related matter.

He said that office bearers of political parties who are not voters of the concerned assembly constituency should not stay in that area during this period. He informed that polling day has been declared as dry day in Giridih and Bokaro districts.

On this occasion, OSD of Chief Electoral Officer's office Geeta Choubey, Under Secretary Devdas Dutta, Deputy Electoral Officer Headquarters Sanjay Kumar and representatives of all major recognized political parties were present.
In a shocking case of honour killing in Muzaffarnagar, a couple allegedly strangulated their 19-year-old daughter to death and threw her body in the river.

The police said that the girls body had been recovered and sent for post-mortem. The parents were also arrested on Sunday.

As per reports, the incident took place in Goyla village of Shahpur in Muzaffarnagar. It is learnt that the girl wanted to testify in court in favour of her lover, who is currently lodged in jail on charges of kidnapping her.

Circle Officer of Budhana, Himanshu Gaurav, said that the girl had an affair with Rahul, a resident of Meeruts Mawana area. He had allegedly abducted her a year ago and a case was registered in Shahpur police station in this regard.

Eight months ago, the police recovered the girl and returned her to the parents while the youth was arrested and sent to jail.

The girl was supposed to give her testimony before the court on Saturday. It is learnt that the girl wanted to testify in favour of the youth. Prima facie she was killed due to this reason, police said.

Meanwhile, Goyla village head Dharampal came to know about the killing and informed the police.

Police started searching for the body in the river with the help of villagers and divers and recovered the body in a sealed sack near Bhanwada village of Ratanpuri on Saturday night.

The police arrested Vijender and Kusum, the girls parents. They admitted to their crime. The body was sent for post-mortem.

Meanwhile in Meerut, a teenager was held hostage in the forest by two youths of the village and gang-raped.

The accused threatened the victim of dire consequences if she told anyone about the incident and fled.

The victim reached home in a critical condition and revealed her trauma to her family members who rushed her to the hospital and later lodged an FIR.
Punjab Mining Department has tightened noose around the people involved in illegal mining by lodging FIRs against them. The Department has adopted a zero tolerance policy for illegal mining, said the state Mining and Geology Minister Gurmeet Singh Meet Hayer on Sunday.

He said that in a raid conducted in Dhanansu village Ludhiana, illegal sand miming was detected. The material extracted was being stacked in Jamalpur area of Ludhiana.

The Minister said that acting swiftly, the Department has requested the Police Department to register an FIR in the matter. Similarly, in Ropar District, FIRs have been lodged in last two days for three incidents of illegal mining, he said, adding that these FIRs have been registered at Kalwan chowki and Nangal police stations and pertain to illegal mining by poclain machines and tippers at Swara or Ailgran village and Khera village.

He said that at Kalwan Chowki, FIR has been registered against one poclain machine at Swara or Ailgran village. Likewise, he said that at Nangal police station, FIR has been lodged against two poclain machines and four tippers in village Khera. Likewise, he said that FIR has been registered in Nangal police station against one poclain machine in village Khera.

All the machines involved in incidents of illegal mining have been impounded and are in police custody.
Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan said that all department doctors will get time bound pay scale. They would get increments in fifth, tenth and fifteenth years.

Medical college doctors will also get the benefit of the seventh pay scale from January 1, 2016.

Addressing a program for inauguration and groundbreaking of 2,000-bed hospital, nursing college and hostel, and OPD registration counters at the Government Medical college here on Monday, Chouhan said that errors in the calculation of NPAs will be corrected. Contractual doctors will also get facilities at par with government contractual employees. All departmental doctors will receive equal pay for equal work. Rationalization of the bond amount for compulsory service of medical students in rural areas will be done.

Improvements will be made in the lapsed salary of assistant professors. Rules for shifting of 11 nursing homes in the city will be simplified.

The Chief Minister said doctors must concentrate on giving the best possible treatment to patients. The Government will take care of their services. The purpose of this new building is to provide better treatment facilities to patients.

The Chief Minister commended the role of doctors during the gas tragedy of Bhopal, and the Covid crisis.

Medical Education Minister Vishwas Sarang said that Madhya Pradesh has become the fastest developing state. He gave credit for this to the Chief Minister Chouhan. He said the Chief Minister is consistently working to improve healthcare services. The MBBS course is being taught in Hindi. The Prime Minister Narendra Modi has made significant contributions to the healthcare sector. The number of medical colleges is increasing. Health Minister Dr. Prabhuram Choudhary said that 11,000 Health and Wellness Centers are operating. Madhya Pradesh is emerging as a leading state in the healthcare sector.

Public Works Minister Gopal Bhargav, MLA Rameshwar Sharma, Mayor Malati Rai, former Mayor Alok Sharma, Additional Chief Secretary Health Mohammad Suleman, and doctors were present.
Delhi Services Minister Atishi has objected to the restructuring of DASS cadre by Lieutenant Governor V K Saxena as a complete violation of the Supreme Court order and the GNCTD (Amendment) Act, 2023, in the latest flashpoint between the AAP dispensation and Raj Niwas.

Earlier this month, the Lieutenant Governor approved the restructuring of the Delhi Administration Subordinate Services (DASS) cadre fulfilling a long pending demand of officials.

In her letter to the LG on August 20, Atishi objected to the move, citing the Supreme Court verdict on May 11 and the Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi (GNCTD) Amendment Act, 2023.

I must state that this turn of events is extremely unfortunate as your approval is in complete violation of the Constitution Bench judgment dated 11.05.2023, as well as the GNCTD (Amendment) Act, 2023, she said.
M Karthikeyan, ED, Bank of India, was in town to attend the Central Zone Zonal Conference meeting of PM-SVANidhi Yojana held here on Tuesday for the States of Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Rajasthan.

In the meeting, Karthikeyan gave information about the excellent performance done by Bank of India in PM-SVANidhi disbursements all the three states to Honourable Minister of State for Finance Bhagwat Karad, Government of India and other officials of MP Government.

Thereafter, the Executive Director also addressed all the staff members of Bank of India - National Banking Group, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh, Bhopal Zonal Office and branches of Bhopal in the "Town Hall" meeting held at Staff Training College, Bhopal in which he provided detailed guidelines for achieving various business goals of the Bank. During the meeting an "Interactive Session" was also organized to establish mutual connect with the staff members, in which the staff members asked questions related to the latest development in Banking Sector as a whole and Bank of India in particular in which the Executive Director, M Karthikeyan provided apt answers.
A meeting was organized at Bhopal Development Authority Headquarters and in the meeting, approval was given for the development of 45 metre master plan road Misrod-Barai and 43 MIG duplexes and 61 LIG duplexes in the Aerocity scheme, known for all-round development of the capital Bhopal.

The authority tries to benefit all sections of the society with its schemes. Many important projects were also proposed in this meeting, so that people in the capital can get better housing facilities at cheaper rates. In the proposed works, the renewal of the lease of the property allotted on lease under the Management and Disposal of Properties of Madhya Pradesh Authority Rules 2018 was presented in the context of the government order.

In the meeting, approval was given for dearness allowance, fourth time scale pay scale to the employees and officers of the authority. Approval was also granted for the evaluation of the plots received by the authority to meet the development expenditure under the capital's famous 45 m Master Plan Road Misrod Barai Nagar Vikas Yojana.

Apart from 43 MIG duplexes and 61 LIG duplexes in Aerocity scheme Bhopal, approval was given for the construction work of 96 cells on the land situated in a multi unit complex in Aerocity scheme.

Apart from this, approval was granted to calculate the price of 272 EWS 1BHK flats under Raja Bhoj Yojana, Godermau Phase-2 of the authority and approval for evaluation of shops, offices and cells available in bus stand premises in Vidyanagar Phase II Yojana, Hoshangabad Road.
The body of a 17-year-old girl student who was missing for the last two days was found on the Agra-Lucknow Expressway on Sunday morning.

On getting information, the relatives rushed to the spot and identified the victim. They alleged that the girl was murdered by her lover.

Reports said Anjali Singh (17), daughter of Malikhan Singh of Nagla Kanhaiya village under Saurikh police station of Kannauj, was studying in class 12 in a school in Saurikh.

On Friday, she had left home for school and parked her bicycle at a friends place, and was missing since then.

When she did not return home till late evening, her mother, Sugharshree, informed Malikhan Singh who along with other family members launched a hunt but did not get any clue of the girl.

On Sunday, the family learnt about the body of a girl lying crushed on the Agra- Lucknow Expressway near Kannauj. Uttar Pradesh Expressway Industrial Development Authority (UPEIDA) security officer Manohar Singh and in-charge Inspector Jitendra Pratap Singh called the family members, who later identified the victim as their missing daughter Anjali Singh.

The family members alleged that she was kidnapped by her lover, residing in the same locality, and later killed before throwing the body on the expressway to make it look like an accident.

Senior police officers also reached the spot and sent the body for post-mortem. A hunt for the victims lover is on.
Tailei Qi, a graduate student accused of fatally shooting a faculty member at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, has been charged with first-degree murder and on Tuesday was denied bond.

Qi, 34, who is also facing a count of of having a gun on education property, was arrested not long after he unleashed gunfire Monday inside Caudill Labs, located at the heart of the UNC campus. When authorities arrived on the scene just after 1 p.m., officers discovered a lone victim suffering from a fatal gunshot wound. He was identified Tuesday as Zijie Yan, 38, an associate professor in the department of applied physical sciences, where he focused on nanoscience technology, according to the university website.

Yan also served as an academic adviser for the suspected gunman, a second-year doctoral student who had worked closely with the professors research group since 2022, WRAL reported. The two had co-authored papers in recent years on the effect of light on nanoparticles, according to the news station.

A motive for the shooting remained unclear Tuesday, and officers are still searching for the weapon used in the attack.

This loss is devastating and the shooting damages the trust and safety that we so often take for granted in our campus community, UNC Chancellor Kevin Guskiewicz said.

At a brief hearing on Tuesday, Orange County Superior Court Judge Sherri Murrell ordered Qi held without bond as an interpreter explained to him in Mandarin what was happening in the courtroom.

The early-afternoon violence Monday triggered a lockdown warning for the campus, already packed with people beginning classes for the fall semester. A second alert was issued at about 2:24 p.m., informing those on campus that the suspect remained at large. A photo of Qi, who was identified only as a person of interest at the time, was also distributed.

Videos shared on social media showed panicked students sheltering in place in classrooms, bathrooms and dorms while others climbed out of windows of a campus building to find better cover.

Qi was in custody within 90 minutes of the first emergency call, and the lockdown was lifted shortly after 4 p.m. Authorities did not provide any details about their confrontation with or capture of the suspect, but WRAL reported it took place along Williams Circle, a residential neighborhood about 2 miles north of campus. Police said officers were eventually able to surround the shooting suspect and then safely take him into custody.

No other injuries were reported.

Qi is being held at the Orange County Detention Center. He is due back in court on Sept. 18.

With News Wire Services
Chief Minister Hemant Soren has written a letter to Union Minister of Mines and Coal, Government of India, Prahlad Joshi. He has said in his letter that various coal mining projects and private coal projects operated by Coal India Limited should be named according to the local place/ village/ mouza/ panchayat/ block/ great men and scenic places etc. of Jharkhand state.

Soren has requested in the letter that the Government of India is not naming the mineral projects run by Coal India Limited, private companies and other public undertakings on the basis of sentiments, tradition, culture etc. of the local public. Citing the example of Amrapali Coal Project, Ashok Coal Project and Magadh Coal Project, mining projects operating in Chatra district, he said that due respect is not being given to the culture, tradition and history of the local people by going against public sentiments. .

The Chief Minister has demanded that the identity of Jharkhand has been established as a state rich in mineral wealth and it has contributed significantly in the development of the country. Major part of the revenue received from minerals is received from coal mineral itself, which is being continuously exploited. It is requested that the culture, tradition and history of this place should be given due respect.
A Puducherry court has sentenced a local resident S Pradeep to five years of rigorous imprisonment in connection with the suicide of MBBS fourth-year student Priyadarshini with whom he was in a relationship, officials said here on Monday.

The case was handed over to the CBI on the orders of the Madras High Court on a petition of the mother of the Priyadarshini. The medical student had hung herself on the night of May 16, 2012, in her hostel room, they said.

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) found that Priyadarshini was in love with Pradeep who had started avoiding her leading to cropping up of differences between them, they said. It was also alleged that the accused had sent an SMS to the victim casting aspersions on her character, which proved to be the breaking point and led to Priyadarshini committing suicide on the fateful late evening/night of May 16, 2012, by hanging from the ceiling fan in her hostel room, CBI Spokesperson said here.

He said the SMS was recovered by the Forensic Science Department(FSD), Chennai, from the mobile phone of Priyadarshini after which the CBI filed a charge sheet on November 24, 2017, against Pradeep.
Weeks after a Supreme Court order, the Delhi government has appointed retired Delhi High Court judge Jayant Nath as the pro tem chairperson of the Delhi Electricity Regulatory Commission ( DERC). Amid differences between the AAP government and Delhi Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena over the chief of the Delhi Electricity Regulatory Commission (DERC), Nath was appointed as a stop gap chairperson of the commission. Sources said the new chairperson would be administered the oath of office soon.

Sources said the power department had issued the order following the approval of his appointment by Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena. In compliance with the directions of Hon'ble Supreme Court of India vide Order dated August 04, 2023 in Writ Petition (Civil) No. 669/2023, the Lt. Governor of the National Capital Territory of Delhi is pleased to appoint Justice (Retd.) Jayant Nath as pro-tem Chairperson of Delhi Electricity Regulatory Commission on an honorarium of a lumpsum amount of Rs. Seven Lakhs Per Month (without any facility such as Basic Salary, HRA/accommodation, DA, EPF etc.) alongwith a working office and a staff car with driver as available to the Chairperson, DERC, as decided by Chief Minister and Lt. Governor in consultation with Justice (Retd.) Jayant Nath, read the order issued by Delhi governments power department.

Retired from Delhi High Court in November 2021, Justice Nath was nominated as the interim chairperson of the power regulator by the Supreme Court on August 4 after the LG and the AAP government had failed to reach a consensus for the post. The order further said that he would continue to be engaged in other work, including arbitration, except in works which are in conflict of interest vis-a-vis functions, duties and responsibilities of Chairman, DERC.

Earlier, the AAP government had moved the apex court against the Centre's June 22 notification to appoint retired Allahabad High Court judge Umesh Kumar to the post.
The principal of a government-run English medium school in Chhattisgarhs Surguja district will be honoured with the National Teachers Award on Teachers Day.

Dr. Brijesh Pandey of the Swami Atmanand Government English Medium School in Ambikapur will be honoured by President Draupadi Murmu on September 5 in Delhi, an official statement said on Tuesday.

Dr Pandey made significant contribution in promoting young scientists and raising interest in science among them. Several models of young scientists have been showcased at the national level under his guidance. He was also honoured with the Governors Award in 2018.

Dr Pandey played a vital role in designing activity books for primary school children.

Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel and School Education Minister Ravindra Choubey congratulated Dr Pandey.
Chhattisgarh Police have arrested 13 gamblers in a raid in Kabirdham district, police said on Tuesday.

The raid netted Rs 3.17 lakhs in cash, two cars, 30 motorcycles, nine mobile phones and playing cards, Kabirdham Superintendent of Police Abhishek Pallava said. The men were gambling on Monday night near a forest in Munmuna village.
The National Green Tribunal has directed the traffic commissioner concerned and the Municipal Corporation of Delhi authorities to ensure that there is no encroachment upon the open and green cover of a building by the parking contractor in the Laxmi Nagar District Centre.

The NGT was hearing a petition by the Laxmi Nagar DDA Building Office Owner Welfare Society claiming the contractor of the building in the District Centre was not parking the vehicles in the designated place but had instead encroached upon a green open space with a malafide intention.

A bench of Chairperson Justice Prakash Shrivastava, in an order passed last week, noted that the tribunal in April 2023 had formed a joint committee comprising representatives of the DDA, MCD and the Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) to verify the factual position and suggest appropriate remedial action.

The bench also comprising judicial members Justice S K Singh and Justice Arun Kumar Tyagi along with expert member A Senthil Vel noted the committees report dated April 27, according to which the parking area had been temporarily demarcated.

But, according to the report, to ensure there was no encroachment by the contractor, the DDA had to repair the broken fencing, the bench noted.

The contractor cannot be permitted to encroach upon any area having the green cover.

Hence, the Traffic Commissioner concerned and the MCD are directed to ensure that no such encroachment by the parking contractor is done and that the parking is done only in the demarcated area, the green panel said.
The Ophthalmology Department of AIIMS Bhopal, in collaboration with the Lions Club, has taken a significant step towards raising awareness about eye donation during the National Eye Donation Fortnight, celebrated from August 25 to September 8.

The program aims to dispel myths and spread factual information about eye donation, fostering a culture of compassion and generosity towards those in need of sight.

Dr. Preeti Singh, Associate Professor at AIIMS Bhopal, delivered an enlightening lecture on eye donation myths and facts, shedding light on the importance of this noble cause. With her extensive expertise in the field of ophthalmology, Dr. Singh elucidated the various misconceptions surrounding eye donation and presented accurate information to the audience. Her presentation aimed to empower individuals with knowledge, encouraging them to make informed decisions and contribute to the greater good.
The by-election to Ghosi assembly constituency has become a prestige issue for both the Samajwadi Party and the inclusive opposition alliance INDIA. Determined to show the success of the newly-formed Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance to the nation, leaders of the bloc are leaving no stone unturned in their efforts to secure victory in this crucial election.

SP president and former chief minister Akhilesh Yadav is set to embark on an election campaign in Ghosi on August 29, reinforcing the partys commitment to winning this crucial by-election. Senior leaders of the SP like Ramgopal Yadav and party general secretary Shivpal Singh Yadav have already started campaigning in this constituency.

The SP candidate for Ghosi, Sudhakar Singh, enjoys the support of Congress, the Rashtriya Lok Dal and the Communist Party of India (Marxist), all integral constituents of the 'INDIA bloc.

With an eye on the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, these parties are rallying behind Singh to create a unified front against the Bharatiya Janata Party.

In the event of a favourable outcome for the SP in this election, the INDIA alliance is poised to amplify the message, showcasing the publics endorsement for this experiment in Uttar Pradesh.

Shivpal Yadav has been diligently conducting door-to-door outreach in the constituency for the past several days. In his small meetings with voters, he emphasises the personal prestige linked to this seat, urging everyone to spare no effort in ensuring the success of the SP candidate.

Prof Ramgopal Yadav, too, has been meeting with local workers, imparting strategies for managing votes at the booth level.

On his arrival in Ghosi, Akhilesh Yadav is scheduled to address a meeting on Tuesday. The SP leadership has alleged that their supporters are being harassed by police and are being prevented from reaching polling booths. Akhilesh will call upon the people of Ghosi to vote without fear and report any attempts to obstruct voting.

Yadav is also expected to motivate party workers, emphasising that this by-election is not merely about one seat. He will underline that its outcome will have far-reaching implications for the forthcoming Lok Sabha elections, making it a pivotal moment in Uttar Pradesh politics.

As the election date approaches, all eyes are on Ghosi, where political fortunes hang in the balance and the battle for prestige rages on.
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Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar on Tuesday announced the Haryana Shahri Vikas Yojana as the agency for the development of basic amenities in unauthorized colonies after the state government decided to regularize such colonies. In this scheme, an initial fund of Rs 500 crore will be kept from the Haryana Urban Development Fund, Khattar said while speaking during the last day of the monsoon session of the Haryana Vidhan Sabha.



Khattar said that the government has recently regularized 449 unauthorized colonies. Besides this, the process of regularization of 1000 colonies is going on. He said that the above fund would be in addition to the development charges levied on the residents of regularized colonies and will be fully used for infrastructure development in the colony.



He said that the issue of sand in small rivers like Markanda, Ghaggar, and Tangri etc. became a serious concern during floods. The rivers do not remain filled with sand as the irrigation department nor the mining department found any solution of delisting the rivers.



Now a 5-member committee has been formed to solve this problem. Additional Chief Secretary, Revenue, Advisor to Chief Minister (Irrigation), Additional Chief Secretary, Environment, Forest and Wildlife Department, Additional Chief Secretary, Mining and Geology Department and Commissioner and Secretary, Irrigation and Water Resources Department will be the committee members.



Responding to the statistics presented by the Opposition regarding the state's fiscal parameters, the Chief Minister said that the figures presented by the Opposition are misleading and beyond facts. He said that in the year 2014-15 the GSDP of the state was 4, 37,000 crore, which has increased to 9 lakh crore today, which indicates the progress and economic development of the state.



He said that the internal debt figures shared by Opposition are not accurate. The Opposition gave the figure of Rs 44,000 crore in public account deposits, whereas it is Rs 40,000 crore. He said that internal debt is not added to the liabilities. In the budget of 2014-15 also, the internal debt was 2.58 percent, which is 2.3 percent today.



PPP eases access to welfare schemes



Underscoring the significant strides made by the government in enhancing eligible citizen access to government schemes through the Parivar Pehchan Patra (PPP) initiative, Khattar said that this novel approach has not only eliminated many hurdles but also empowered eligible beneficiaries to effortlessly avail themselves of various state welfare schemes and programs.



Replying to a calling attention motion moved by the opposition, he highlighted the government's commitment to streamline processes for the betterment of the public through PPP and informed that the initiative aimed to ensure that poor and eligible ones are no longer subjected to the unnecessary rigmarole of office visits and documentation submission.



He recounted that the earlier system disproportionately favored those who were dominant or well-connected, often leading to an unequal distribution of scheme benefits. In contrast, vulnerable individuals were often discouraged from participating due to procedural complexities.



Through the issuance of over 12.30 lakh new ration cards in January 2023, the government has achieved the commendable feat of identifying eligible beneficiaries and granting them access to essential services. This strategic approach, he noted, has aided in identifying those truly in need.



Khattar said that the Old Age Samman Allowance benefits have been linked pro-actively to PPP. The verification process of all those in the age group of 59 to 70 are being identified including those who were left out in the earlier process and their consent is being sought for start of the Allowance. This process is likely to be completed by September 2023.



The Chief Minister said that in the current academic year 2023-24, 3.52 lakh fresh admissions have been made in private and govemment schools based on PPP data. Similarly, 1.28 lakh admissions have been made in colleges through the Online Admission Portal of the Department of Higher Education using PPP data. Admissions to Industrial Training Institutes (ITI) is still underway and till date 1.01 lakh registrations using PPP for admission to ITIs has been received on the Online Admission Portal of the Department of Skill Development and Industrial Training, of which 61,405 admissions have been made.
The Jharkhand High Court on Tuesday ordered the Enforcement Directorate (ED) to probe the Chaibasa districts MNREGA scam. The scam involves Rs 28 crore loss to the state exchequer.

Jharkhand High Court division bench headed by High Court Chief Justice Sanjaya Kumar Mishra ordered for the probe after hearing a PIL filed by a social worker, Matloob Imam. The Jharkhand High Court also directed the state government to provide copies of documents related to the investigation of the MNREGA scam case in Chaibasa, if sought by the ED.

Earlier, the court was told by the ED that in many cases, the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) has filed charge sheets in the case, but the state government is not providing the ED on demand for a copy of the charge sheet. , On which the court directed the government to provide the documents sought by the ED and said that if the ED wants, it can also get the certified copy of the charge sheet from the concerned court.

As many as 14 FIRs were registered since 2008 to 2011 in Chaibasa in the scam and the Anti-Corruption Bureau of the state has also probed the matter. The next hearing in the case will take place on September 31.

Alam had demanded a CBI probe into the MNREGA scam that took place in between 2008 to 2011 in Chaibasa when K Srinivasan was deputy commissioner.

According to him, the scam involves Rs 28 crore. He submitted through his lawyer Rajiv Kumar that as many as 14 FIRs were registered in this scam and later the ACB also probed the matter registering preliminary enquiry but no action was taken in the matter.

This is the second time a PIL in the matter has surfaced. Earlier, the court had disposed of the petition in 2013. In 2021, Alam filed it again demanding a CBI probe in the matter.

Advocate General Rajeev Ranjan and Advocate Piyush Chitresh appeared on behalf of the State Government. Advocate Rajeev Kumar appeared on behalf of the same applicant.

On behalf of the applicant, the court was told that in the financial year 2008-9, 2009-10, 2010-11, MNREGA scam of about Rs 28 crores took place in Chaibasa. Police had registered 14 FIRs regarding this in Chaibasa. Later ACB started investigation by registering an FIR in the matter, but no action has been taken. In the said three financial years in Chaibasa, advance amount was paid for MNREGA works but no work was done on the ground.

At that time the DC of Chaibasa was K Srinivasan. It may be mentioned that the applicant had filed a public interest litigation in the year 2013 regarding the investigation of MNREGA scam in Chaibasa, later the case was executed by the court. After this, by filing a PIL again in the year 2021, a CBI inquiry has been demanded on behalf of the applicant.
Hong Kong: CE welcomes Shenzhen Park plan

Chief Executive John Lee today welcomed the central governments promulgation of a development plan for the Shenzhen Park part of the Hetao Shenzhen-Hong Kong Science & Technology Innovation Co-operation Zone.

The co-operation zone, located on both sides of the Shenzhen River, is being developed under a vision for one river, two banks and one zone, two parks.

It will consist of a park of about 300 hectares on the Shenzhen side, and another park of 87 hectares on the Hong Kong side.

The Hong Kong SAR Government and the Shenzhen Municipal Government signed a Memorandum of Understanding in 2017, and another co-operation arrangement in 2021. The two governments have been liaising closely through a joint task force to exchange views on the development of the zone and of both parks.

The Shenzhen Park development plan comprises 30 measures, covering such factors as positioning, objectives, infrastructure and the parks overall layout, as well as collaboration with Hong Kong to promote international I&T development.

The goal is to promote high quality I&T development in the GBA and enable the co-operation zone to become a world-class innovation platform and an engine to drive I&T development in neighbouring cities.

Mr Lee said the Hong Kong SAR Government is grateful for the staunch support of the Central Peoples Government and the Shenzhen Municipal Government in terms of the co-operation zones development.

He added that the promulgation of the Shenzhen Park development plan injects new momentum into future collaboration on I&T development by the two places.

The Chief Executive said the Hong Kong SAR will continue to work with Shenzhen to promote the co-operation zones advantages, under a one zone, two parks principle that aligns with the one country, two systems principle.

We will strive to implement measures to promote a cross-boundary flow of various innovation elements, he said. This will enable the co-operation zone to serve as the bridgehead for intensive I&T co-operation between the two places, and allow Hong Kong to give full play to its unique advantage of enjoying strong support (from) the motherland and being closely connected to the world.

This, in turn, can support the development of the GBA international I&T centre.

Me Lee stressed that over the past few years, Hong Kong and Shenzhen have made good progress in developing the co-operation zone. He noted that a first batch of three buildings that will form part of the Hong Kong-Shenzhen Innovation and Technology Park (HSITP), ie the Hong Kong Park, will be completed by phases, on schedule, from the end of 2024 onwards.

The first phase of the HSITP will consist of zones corresponding to different technology sectors, Mr Lee said, explaining that such clustering is common at similar parks on the Mainland and overseas and brings synergy.

He added: To chart Hong Kong in moving full steam towards our vision of an international I&T centre, the Hong Kong SAR Government promulgated the Hong Kong I&T Development Blueprint. It sets out the development direction and key strategies for the roadmap and timetable for realising this vision.

The Hong Kong SAR Government will enhance the I&T ecosystem, and proactively integrate into the overall development of the country so as to consolidate Hong Kongs role as a bridge connecting the Mainland and the world.

This story has been published on: 2023-08-29. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article.
HEFEI, Aug. 28 (Xinhua) -- German enterprises are doubling down on their investment in China's fast-growing new energy vehicle (NEV) industry, or planning to do so, to tap the market potential of a country that has 1.4 billion people. The country has seen a significant increase in the production and sales of NEVs this year. During the first seven months, China's NEV output was 4.59 million units, up 40 percent year on year, while sales reached 4.53 million units, rising 41.7 percent from a year ago, data from the China Association of Automobile Manufacturers showed. Hefei, capital of east China's Anhui Province, is home to a number of NEV enterprises, such as Volkswagen Anhui, NIO, and BYD, gathering more than 500 industrial chain enterprises and employing about 100,000 people. From January to May this year, the cumulative output of NEVs in the city reached 230,000, or one unit produced every minute on average. Hefei is accelerating to build itself as an important NEV industrial cluster in China and even the world. "Volkswagen Anhui is Volkswagen Group's first majority-owned joint venture for all-electric vehicles in China. It is a key pillar for the group's e-mobility push and decarbonization strategy in China and globally," said Erwin Gabardi, CEO of Volkswagen Anhui. With a planned investment of 23.1 billion yuan (about 3.17 billion U.S. dollars), the German carmaker is in full speed of building a new NEV hub, along with the complete value chain, covering R&D, manufacturing, sales and services in Hefei. "The government is very innovative and has given us a lot of preferential policies to promote the rapid progress of the project, and to support our recruitment with attractive talent policies," Gabardi told Xinhua. The company is cooperating with Hefei University and the local government to cultivate high-skilled NEV professionals. Established in 2021, Volkswagen College aims to bring a German dual education framework into Chinese vocational institutions and higher education to cultivate NEV talents for the industry's long-term growth. The first batch of "seed engineer" students from the cooperation program have graduated and joined Volkswagen Anhui, contributing to NEV research and development. Besides, Volkswagen Group reached an agreement to buy a 4.99-percent stake in Chinese NEV startup Xpeng in July for 700 million U.S. dollars and co-develop two NEV models for the Chinese market. Recently, Christian Coates, President of the Tire Division of Continental AG, paid a visit to Hefei to discuss further cooperation one month after Hefei's officials went to the company's headquarters in Hannover, Germany. The two parties agreed to seize the development opportunities of the NEV industry, speed up the construction of the fourth phase of the company's tire factory in Hefei to expand production and plan follow-up projects such as auto electronics and R&D centers. Since its official operation in Hefei in 2011, the company has achieved an annual output of 12 million passenger car tires and 3 million bicycle tires, with an output value of 6.34 billion yuan in 2022. Volkswagen and Continental are among an increasing number of German enterprises that have shown interest in investing in Anhui. On Aug. 18, the China-Germany Friendship Association organized for some well-known companies, including Volkswagen, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz, to visit Anhui and discuss cooperation. The association will give full play to the matchmaking role to further promote the cooperation between German enterprises and Anhui in NEV, vocational education, youth exchanges, and other aspects, said Shi Mingde, president of the China-Germany Friendship Association. Being a world-renowned manufacturer of automobiles, Germany has a lot to gain and share when cooperating with China in terms of market access, technology innovation, and talent cultivation, among others. China has been Germany's largest trading partner for seven years. There are over 5,000 German companies that are active in China and over 2,500 Chinese companies that are active in Germany, according to Silke Besser, general manager of the German-Chinese Business Association.


Mayor Adams directly slammed Gov. Hochul on her handling of the migrant crisis on Tuesday, offering his most forceful criticism yet of a key government ally.

I think the governor is wrong, Adams said bluntly, calling the governor out on evading state responsibility in managing the crisis, and instead dumping the problem on the city.

Tensions have been rising among the city, state and federal government for months over the migrant crisis  but this is the first time that Adams, who has been a strong ally of the governor, has gone after Hochul by name.

This is a real leadership moment, Adams said at a breakfast event hosted by the New York Law School.   We are the economic engine of the state. New York goes down, the entire state goes down.

Mayor Eric Adams is pictured during a press conference at City Hall on Wednesday July 19, 2023.

Its unfortunate that the mayor is choosing to point fingers at the state  which continues to provide the city with unprecedented amounts of financial support  rather than working collaboratively to manage this crisis, said Avi Small, a spokesman for Hochul, in response to Adams remarks.

Hochuls office earlier referred to comments she made last week pushing back on the idea that the citys right-to-shelter provision applies outside the five boroughs of New York City.

This is an agreement that does not apply to the states other 57 counties, which is one of the reasons we cannot and will not force other parts of our state to shelter migrants, nor are we going to be asking these migrants to move to other parts of the state against their will, Hochul said last Thursday.

City Hall didnt immediately respond to a request for comment on Adams remarks.

Every county in the state should be part of this, Adams said Tuesday morning. We have .05 of the landmass in this state, and we have almost 99% of the migrant asylum seekers.

The state accused the Adams administration this month of mishandling the crisis by refusing state help, poorly communicating with the state and being slow to implement programs.

More than 100,000 migrants have arrived in the city over the past year, with about 56,000 now living in its shelter system. For months, the city, state and federal governments have struggled to deal with the influx of asylum seekers, with the city opening about 200 emergency shelters across the five boroughs.

Migrants are seen sleeping outside the Roosevelt Hotel in Midtown Manhattan early Monday, July 31, 2023.

Anti-migrant protests have erupted across the city in recent weeks, including on Staten Island and the Upper East Side and in Queens Village.

Both the city and state are being challenged in a lawsuit over their obligations to find beds for migrants under the decades-old right-to-shelter rule, which mandates the city provide a bed to anyone who asks for one.

In court papers, Hochuls lawyers have doubled down on her belief that the law does not apply to the state.

Adams is pushing to roll back the mandate, saying that its impossible to comply with unprecedented numbers of migrants still arriving and more than 50,000 asylum seekers living in the shelter system.

Ingrid Lewis-Martin, Adams chief adviser, urged politicians to put more pressure on Hochul to do more to help the city tackle the crisis.

We need our city partners to work with us to pressure the governor into understanding that this is a statewide issue, Lewis-Martin said last Thursday in a private call to New York City Council members.

New York Gov. Kathy Hochul speaks to reporters on June 7, 2023, in Albany.

Last week, Hochul called on the White House for help in getting work authorizations for the new migrants and more federal funding.

This crisis originated with the federal government, and it must be resolved through the federal government, Hochul said in the livestreamed comments that accompanied a letter to President Biden.

Adams said in a statement last week that he was disappointed that the state today appears to minimize the role that they can  and must  play.

Leaving New York City alone to manage this crisis  and abdicating the states responsibility to coordinate a statewide response  is unfair to New York City, Adams added.
Samajwadi Party MLC and party general secretary Swami Prasad Maurya has stirred another controversy by saying that Hindu dharma is not a religion but a hoax.

Maurya, who had earlier stirred a major controversy with his remarks against some verses of Ramcharitmanas, is once again taking heat for his remarks on Hindu dharma and Brahminism.

Maurya on Monday labelled Hindu dharma deceitful and a hoax. He posted a video on X (previously Twitter) in which he stated, The roots of Brahminism are very deep and the reason for all the disparity is also Brahminism. There is no religion called Hindu, Hinduism is just a hoax. There is a conspiracy to trap the Dalits, tribals and backward people of this country by calling the same Brahmin religion as Hindu religion. If there was Hindu religion then tribals would have been respected, Dalits would have been respected, backward people would have been respected but what an irony...

His remarks sparked a row among social media users, with a section criticising him for spreading hatred.

Swami Prasad Maurya had kicked up a controversy in February this year by alleging that certain verses of Ramcharitmanas insulted a large section of society on the basis of caste and demanded that these verses be banned.

He said that humiliation of a caste in the name of religion should be objected to. He added that there were several crore people who had not or did not read Ramcharitmanas. He said it was the British era that gave Dalits the right to read and write and that women got their right to be literate under the British Raj. He went on to say that the Hindu religious text was all nonsense and urged the government to erase the objectionable part of Ramcharitmanas or ban the entire book.

Meanwhile, in an apparent damage control exercise, Dimple Yadav, Member of Parliament and wife of SP president Akhilesh Yadav, said no one is enemy of Sanatan dharma and in 2024 Lok Sabha elections the electorate, irrespective of caste and religion, will vote for the success of opposition alliance INDIA.

Another SP leader, IP Singh, flayed the statement of Maurya, saying, He should refrain from making critical comments on religion. He had embraced Buddhism decades ago and this does not give him the right to condemn Sanatan dharma.

He said Maurya was in the Bharatiya Janata Party and a cabinet minister in Yogi Adityanath government and he never raised religious issues then. Singh counseled Maurya to fight for caste based census, PDA (Pichhada, Dalit, Alpsankhyak) and the students of Other Backward Classes communities who had been denied accommodation in Banaras Hindu University hostel.
Himachal Guv & CM felicitate people on Raksha Bandhan



Shimla: Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla and Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Tuesday congratulated the people of the State on the joyous occasion of Raksha Bandhan. The Governor in his message said the festival not only plays a pivotal role in strengthening the bond of love but also play a significant role in creating a cordial atmosphere in the society as a whole. Chief Minister said that the Raksha Bandhan symbolizes the love and affection between brother and sister and expressed the hope that it would strengthen the bonds of brotherhood. He said this occasion was an opportunity to promote peace, harmony and brotherhood in the State and the country as well.



Debris disposal along fragile slopes, unplanned drainage system behind Shimla rain damage: Official



Shimla: Disposal of debris along fragile slopes, unplanned drainage system and unscientific excavation of hills are the reasons behind the immense damage in Himachal Pradeshs capital city Shimla during the recent incessant rains as per the preliminary assessment, Chief Secretary Prabodh Saxena said. Saxena, who presided over a meeting with the team constituted to review the damage, said Shimla received 552.1 mm of rain in August this year as compared to 514.30 mm in the corresponding period in 2022. He said to reduce the risks related to disasters, special attention should be paid to well-planned construction with proper drainage system as unplanned buildings and diversion of waterways due to choked drains did the maximum damage. He said emphasis should also be laid on safely disposing of the muck excavated during the construction. The senior official asserted that there should be a thorough assessment of disaster-sensitive areas of the hill state and emphasis should also be laid on adopting and strictly implementing the Model Building Rules in all urban and rural areas. Various measures related to safe construction of buildings in rural areas, regulating construction near rivulets, nullahs and on slopes with steep gradient were also discussed in detail.



Punjab VB arrests Ludhiana-based travel agents aide accepting Rs 20k bribe



Chandigarh: Punjab Vigilance Bureau (VB) on Tuesday arrested an aide of Ludhiana-based travel agent while accepting a bribe of Rs 20,000 from one Sukhdeep Kaur Gill, resident of New Sodhi Nagar, Moga. Spokesperson said that Gill approached Ludhiana VBs Economic Offences Wing (EoW) and lodged a complaint that the accused travel agent Kamal Goel, whose office Travel Club is situated near Passport Sewa Kendra Ludhiana, demanded Rs 20,000 to rectify the names and renew the passports of her daughters.



Driver caught pilfering 22 ltrs diesel from govt bus in Pb



Chandigarh: Punjab Transport Minister Laljit Singh Bhullar on Tuesday informed that a driver has been caught pilfering diesel from a government bus. During a checking at Ravi Dhaba near Satnaur (Hoshiarpur district) on Monday night, the Ministers Flying Squad caught driver Rajwant Singh, of Pathankot Depots bus, red-handed while he was pilfering diesel from government bus. Total 22 liters of diesel has been recovered from his possession. Bhullar informed that the Flying Squad, during a checking in Shaheed Bhagat Singh Nagar, has also caught conductor Nitish Kumar of SBS Nagar Depots bus for not issuing tickets despite collecting fares from passengers. He charged Rs 325 from passengers but did not provide them with tickets. Conductor Gurjeet Singh of bus of Jalandhar-1 depot was also caught for embezzling passengers ticket money of Rs 60 by not issuing them tickets for the same amount during checking in Raipur Khalyan.



Punjab VB nabs SHO Dasuya, his driver while accepting bribe of Rs 20,000



Chandigarh: Punjab Vigilance Bureau (VB) on Tuesday nabbed an SHO, Balwinder Singh (Inspector), of Police Station Dasuya and his driver ASI Yograj while accepting a bribe of Rs 20,000 and also recovered Rs 60,000 during the search of the SHOs house. The accused police officials have been arrested on the complaint of Balwinder Singh resident of Saidowal Kalan in Gurdaspur district. An official spokesperson said that Balwinder Singh lodged a complaint that the accused Inspector had demanded Rs 1 lakh as a bribe for not adding section 326 in FIR no. 126 dated 08-07-2023 registered under sections 324, 506 and 34 of IPC against his brother Lakhwinder Singh and his cousin Gurnam Singh at Police Station Dasuya and the deal was settled at Rs 50,000. The complainant alleged that the accused SHO already took Rs 20,000 from him and was demanding the remaining amount of the bribe. A team of VB unit Hoshiarpur laid a trap and arrested the SHO and his driver while accepting the bribe of Rs 20,000 from the complainant in the presence of official witnesses.

Three Haryana MLAs get Best Legislator Award



Chandigarh: On the last day of the Monsoon session of the Haryana Vidhan Sabha, three MLAs were awarded for their exceptional involvement in legislative proceedings and for raising pertinent public issues. While earlier only two MLAs used to be awarded under the Best Legislator Award initiative, from this session, the number of awardees was increased to three. The recipients of the award this session included BJPs Ambala MLA Aseem Goyal, who secured the first prize, followed by JJPs Barwala MLA Jogiram Sihag in the second place and Congresss Dabwali MLA Amit Sihag in the third place. The awards comprised a shawl, citation, Vidhan Sabha memento and a monetary reward of Rs 101,000, Rs 71,000 and Rs 51,000 for the first, second and third places, respectively. After receiving the honours, all three MLAs extended their gratitude to the House. Being recognized as the best legislator in the House is a profound achievement for any public representative. Such acknowledgment serves as a source of motivation for all members, encouraging them to deliver their best in the service of the people, said Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar.
To present a beautiful national Capital to the visitors during the global G20 summit next week, Delhi Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena has been monitoring personally by taking stock of the preparations and beautification. According to a Raj Niwas Press release, Saxena undertook 351 km of total foot walk spanning 58 days which comes to approximately 6.5 km per day in four hours translating into a dedicated 216 hours for the purpose.

In this regard, Saxena conducted two dozens high-level meeting with all stakeholders departments and agencies, spread over more than 48 hours on different dates.

Saxena took up the task of bringing together various departments / agencies for seamless coordination between them which was essential for this major event, especially in the light of multiplicity of authorities, that exists in Delhi.

The agencies involved to keep the national Capital clean, green and beautiful are NDMC, ITPO, DDA, MCD and PWD. The Indian Air Force (IAF) and Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL) too have been working in coordination as a team for a successful event in Delhi. Saxena had constituted District-Level Monitoring Committees, with representatives of all stakeholder departments / agencies and headed by a senior IAS officer to ensure that all works at the ground is complete. L-G alongwith his officials undertook 54 visits on the streets and roads for inspection and review of the repair, restoration, beautification, according to a Raj Niwas spokesperson.

The ITPO area which is the venue for the Summit has been fully decked up and the Lieutenant Governor has been regularly inspecting it since the National Capital was inundated by floods in July this year. DhaulaKuan area, Cantonment area, Sardar Patel Marg and ISBT area has been regularly under the Lieutenant Governors watch list and each of these areas have been visited and inspected by him several times.

Altogether, 61 roads, 36 in New Delhi, 05 in South-East, 06 in South, 05 in Central, 03 in Shahdara, 02 in South-West and 04 in East District had been identified for revamp and beautification. Similarly, 23 Hotels, 17 in New Delhi, 03 in South-East and 01 each in South, Shahdara and South-West District have been identified for housing delegates.

Saxena also ensured that statues, sculptures, artefacts, fountains, lights and green pots are in place and100 sculptures including that of Konark Wheel, Tortoise, Chhatris, Horse Family, Yakshinis, Ganpati, Elephant Family, Lions, Buddha, Surya and Nandi have been installed.
Chhattisgarh Police on Tuesday arrested a 28-year-old man from Bilaspur for cheating eight persons Rs 60.78 lakhs on the pretext of doubling their money through the share market.

Durg Superintendent of Police Shalabh Kumar Sinha identified him as Rajesh Chandrakar of Kabirdham district.

One of the complainants, Sarita Bansod, lodged a cheating case with the police on Monday.

Chandrakar confessed to cheating Bansod of Rs 7 lakhs. He said he also took money from seven others.

A court sent him to prison.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised Uttar Pradesh twice during his Mann Ki Baat programme on Sunday.

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath listened to Prime Minister Narendra Modis Mann Ki Baat programme live at his official residence.

Chief Minister Yogi extended gratitude to the prime minister for acknowledging the daughters of the state who won medals in G-20 Quiz, Varanasi Milk Group and World University Games in Varanasi.

During the programme, Prime Minister Modi said that the participation of 1.25 lakh students from 800 schools in the G-20 quiz held in Varanasi had created a new world record.

Referring to the Varanasi Milk Group, the prime minister said that this group was working on joint management to increase the income of milk producers and cattle herders, which indicated the White Revolution in UP.

Additionally, he congratulated and spoke to Uttar Pradeshs Pragati, who won a medal in archery at the World University Games, and Priyanka, who was part of the 20-km race walk team.

Thanking Prime Minister Modi for mentioning topics related to Uttar Pradesh in the Mann Ki Baat programme, the chief minister wrote on his official 'X' handle, Respected Prime Minister Narendra Modi has appreciated the world record in the G-20 quiz held in Varanasi with the participation of 1.25 lakh students from 800 schools in Mann Ki Baat programme. This interest of the new generation and its participation is a reflection of the countrys development. Hearty congratulations to the prime minister!

Chief Minister Yogi added, Pragati and Priyanka, the daughters of the state who have won medals in the World University Games while glorifying Mother India on the global stage, are the pride of the country. Millions of youth will be inspired by both the daughters who were mentioned in the Mann Ki Baat programme by respected Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Hearty thanks prime minister!

The chief minister thanked Prime Minister Modi for the appreciation of Varanasi Milk Group and wrote, Under the guidance of the prime minister, the double-engine government in Uttar Pradesh has provided new heights to the dairy sector. In the Mann Ki Baat programme, Prime Minister Modi mentioned the prosperity of annadata farmers of Varanasi and surrounding areas through the Varanasi Milk Union and the continuous increase in their income is proof of this.

Chief Minister Yogi concluded, With the vision of Developed India and the path of human welfare, the prime minister under Meri Mati, Mera Desh has exhorted people to take part in Meri Mati, Mera Desh campaign to collect soil from every house in September and Amrit Kalash Yatra in October. In the Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav, the holy journey of uniting the country in the thread of unity is going to connect 140 crore countrymen with the spirit of Ek Bharat-Shreshtha Bharat.
Ranchi police, on Monday, have arrested seven criminals even before the incident of robbery from the businessman was carried out. On the basis of secret information received by Ranchi SSP, Kishore Kaushal, the police and QRT team of Sukhdev Nagar police station have taken action.



Addressing a press meet Kaushal said that the police have arrested five criminals who were planning a robbery by raiding inside an empty house located in Navatoli of Sukhdevnagar police station area. On the tip off the arrested criminals, two other criminals, who were inspecting the businessman, were arrested. The arrested criminals include Santosh Rai, Deepak Kumar Singh, Ravi Kumar, Altamas Ansari, Suraj Kumar and Sujit Kumar. The police have recovered a country-made pistol, a country-made katta, five live bullets and two bikes from them, he added.



The SSP had received information that some criminals were doing Reiki of the businessman of Pandra Bazar. In order to return home in the evening from the shop located in the market committee, they are planning to loot on the way. After which, on the instructions of the SSP, a police team was formed under the leadership of City SP, said Kaushal.





The SSP said that meanwhile, on August 28, information was received that the criminals had gathered in an empty house at Navatoli Chowk to carry out the incident of robbery from that businessman today itself. Along with this, the criminals have also collected illegal weapons and are planning to loot the businessman. After this, the police raided and arrested the criminals, he added.



The arrested criminals already have criminal history. A total of 10 cases are registered against Santosh Rai in Ranchi and Ramgarh among the criminals. Two cases are already registered against Altamas Ansari, one case against Sujit Kumar, two cases against Abhishek Kumar Chowdhary and one case against Deepak Kumar.
Punjab School Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains on Tuesday conducted a surprise inspection at Government Model Senior Secondary School, Kharar; and expressed his displeasure over the poor condition of the school during the visit.

After the inspection, the School Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains took the students of Classes VI, VII and VIII to the Civil Secretariat and got information from them about the status of bathrooms, status of studies, uniforms, books, tests, syllabus, and co-educational activities conducted in the school.

Students pointed out that school rooms do not have proper lighting arrangements nor are they made to experiment in labs. Citing other problems, the students said that during the rainy days, water accumulates in front of the gate, due to which there is massive difficulty in commuting to and from school.

Apart from this, there are also problems due to excessive traffic in front of the main gate of the school during the holidays and in the morning. Pertinently, around 3300 students are taught in two shifts in Government Model Senior Secondary School, Kharar. After receiving information from the students, the School Education Minister immediately convened a meeting of all the senior officials of the Education Department.

Bains categorically directed the officials that all the problems of Government Model Senior Secondary School, Kharar, should be resolved immediately and action should be taken against the concerned responsible teachers after conducting an inquiry into the non-availability of uniforms and books etc to some students.
Punjab Vigilance Bureau (VB) on Tuesday arrested a lecturer Umesh Kumar Munjal, posted at Government Senior Secondary School, Lalru in SAS Nagar district, for taking a bribe of Rs 1.16 lakh from P Ranjan, resident of Nanak Nagri Abohar (Fazilka). VB spokesperson said that P Ranjan lodged a complaint that his wife Priya Miglani, who is a government teacher, was posted at Government Senior Secondary School, Kussowal in Ferozepur district, which is around 180 kms away from their residence. Umesh Kumar contacted him to get his wife transferred near home.

The complainant then met him at Sri Muktsar Sahib on October 26, 2021, and the lecturer demanded Rs two lakh for the same. The accused lecturer had taken Rs 1.16 lakh as a bribe from the complainant on different dates and then started demanding the remaining amount of the bribe but the transfer was not done as the complainant did not pay the remaining amount of the bribe to the accused.

The complainant said that Punjab Education Department had opened the portal for online transfers on June 10, 2022, and on the application, Priya Miglani was transferred to Government Senior Secondary School, Bhitiwala, in tehsil Malout of Sri Muktsar Sahib district and she joined the duty on new posting on June 16, 2022. But the accused was harassing them by demanding the remaining amount of bribe.

A spokesperson said that a team of VB unit Fazilka has arrested the lecturer Umesh Kumar Munjal on Tuesday after registering an FIR, dated August 29, 2023, under section 7 of Prevention of Corruption Act against him at Police Station VB, Ferozepur Range.
Six persons died in three separate road accidents in the State on Monday night and Tuesday. While one person died in an accident in Chamoli district late on Monday night, a couple along with their three-year-old daughter died in Haridwars Roorkee after a tractor trolley hit their bike early on Tuesday. The couples other daughter sustained some injuries and was admitted to hospital for treatment, said the officials. In Tehri district, two persons died and one was injured when their jeep fell into a gorge in the Jakhnidhar block on Tuesday evening.

In Roorkee, officials said that the couple, identified as Sonu alias Irshad and Nazma, was returning to their home in Roorkees Puhana village from Purkaji in Uttar Pradesh on a bike with their two daughters on Tuesday. A tractor trolley reportedly hit their bike from the front when they reached the Jhabreda area and both parents along with their three-year-old daughter died at the spot while the second child sustained injuries, as per the officials. They said that as per the locals, the driver escaped after seeing the bodies of the victims. The police team reached the spot after getting the information about the accident and took the victims to the hospital. Many family members and acquaintances of the deceased also reached the hospital and demanded the arrest of the absconding driver. The station house officer of the Jhabreda police station Dharmendra Rathi assured them that the police have started searching for the accused. He also informed that the bodies were sent for post mortem after completing the necessary procedures. No complaint was filed in the case till evening, as per the police.

In Tehri district, two persons died and one was injured when their jeep fell into a 100-metre deep gorge on the Niralidhar-Dapoli-Sunali motor road at about 6 PM on Tuesday. The injured man was admitted to the community health centre at Hindolakhal. The identities of the casualties and the exact cause of the mishap were not ascertained till the time of this report being filed.

Earlier, late on Monday night one person died and four others were injured when their car fell into a gorge on Salud motor road in Joshimath area of Chamoli district. The injured were sent to the district hospital in Gopeshwar from where one seriously injured person was referred to a higher centre. According to sources, the driver of the car lost control of the vehicle which then fell about 100 metres down the mountainside. The State Disaster Response Force personnel rescued two injured persons while two others had minor injuries and were able to come up on their own. Dungra Salud resident Surat Singh Chauhan died on the spot while Sobat Singh Chauhan sustained serious injuries and was referred to a higher centre.
Delhi Mayor Shelly Oberoi on Monday visited the iconic British-era Town Hall and Ghalib ki Haveli in the Walled City and said tourists who will come to Delhi during the G20 Summit time should be able to see the rich heritage of the city.

The over 160-year-old landmark  the original headquarters of the Municipal Corporation of Delhi  has received a basic facelift in the last few months.

Mayor Oberoi accompanied by Delhi Urban Development Minister Saurabh Bharadwaj visited the sprawling heritage building situated in the Chandni Chowk area.

They later also went to the historic Ghalib ki Haveli in Old Delhis Ballimaran area where poet Mirza Ghalib once lived.

India is hosting the G20 Summit in Delhi which is a matter of pride for all of us. Roads and parks (under the MCD area) are being cleaned and beautified, and tourists coming here during the G20 Summit time will be able to see the rich heritage of the city and go back with fond memories, she said.

The summit is slated to be held in the national capital from September 9 to 10.

Oberoi and Bharadwaj also sampled some delicacies of old Delhi and took a rickshaw ride in the pedestrianised stretch of the Chandni Chowk.

Bharadwaj said as this structure was built during the British era, people have an interest in this building and its history. The Town Hall premises include the main building which has lawns on the front and back sides and is flanked by press building and dispensary building, which also have been freshly painted from outside.

Built in yellow-painted brick and stone and carved white stone trim, the Victorian-era Town Hall, built in the early 1860s, was originally used by the British to hold public meetings.

The Town Hall, the construction of which was completed in 1866, was earlier called the Delhi Institute or the Lawrence Institute and it is still considered one of the most iconic buildings of the city.

It was the original seat of the Delhi Municipality, and the Town Hall was bought by the municipality around 1866 for its use, a senior official said.

The municipality later evolved into the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) which came into being in April 1958.
Miami Mayor Francis Suarez Tuesday dropped out of the Republican presidential primary race, the first candidate to throw in the towel on his long-shot bid for the White House.

Just 76 days after launching his campaign, Suarez pulled the plug on his effort to challenge former President Donald Trump, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis and others in the crowded field.

I have decided to suspend my campaign for president, my commitment to making this a better nation for every American remains, Suarez said in a statement.

Miami Mayor Francis Suarez speaks at the Conservative Political Action Conference, CPAC 2023, Friday, March 3, 2023, at National Harbor in Oxon Hill, Md.

Suarez becomes the first candidate to pull out of the GOP race. Others who have come up with little traction in the race so far include ex-Rep. Will Hurd, ex-Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson and radio host Larry Elder.

The Miami mayor hoped to bring a conservative Latino voice and one with experience running a big city to the race dominated by white men with few urban ties.

One of his biggest splashes came when he launched an artificial intelligence-powered bot that answered some questions about his political positions.

But his campaign sputtered from the start. His failure to qualify for the first debate last week effectively sounded a death knell for his dark horse bid.

Suarez didnt endorse any of the remaining candidates but said he would keep open lines of communication with them.

[I will] make sure our party puts forward a strong nominee who can inspire and unify the country, renew Americans trust in our institutions and in each other, and win, he said.

Suarez vowed to continue working to promote the GOP in the Latino community, which he said was ripe turf for the partys conservative stances.

Our party must continue doing more to include and attract this vibrant community that believes in our countrys foundational values: faith, family, hard work and freedom, he said.
The Uttarakhand Congress has accused the ruling BJP of blatant misuse of power in the campaign for the Bageshwar Assembly by -election.

Interacting with the media persons at the headquarters of the State Congress on Tuesday, the State chief spokesperson of Congress, Garima Dasauni said that party workers are being constantly harassed in Bageshwar by the administration. She claimed that the Congress is in a strong position in Bageshwar due to which the ruling party has got cluttered up. Dasauni said that since the Congress party firmly believes in the constitution and it is contesting the election using constitutional means. She claimed that the Congress workers are being harassed to break their morale. The banners and posters of the Congress candidate are being torn and the vehicles of Congress party supporters are being penalised, she said. The Congress leader said that notices under section 107/116 have been given to the district vice president of Youth Congress Bhim Kumar and Bhuwan Pharswan. Dasauni added that the journalists coming to Bageshwar from outside are not being allowed to cover the by-election. She claimed that the information department has asked the local journalists to get its permission for attending press conferences. The village Pradhans and other public representatives are being threatened. Dasauni said that the Congress party will register a complaint with the election commission on the issue.

She said that the people of Bageshwar have made up their mind and will vote for change. The people are fed up with bad policies of BJP, uncontrolled price rise and rampant unemployment, she added.
The Uttar Pradesh government has embarked on a mission to eradicate tuberculosis (TB) from the states gram panchayats as Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has issued a directive to officials to implement Prime Minister Narendra Modis TB-Free India initiative with a focused approach.

Notably, World Tuberculosis Day is observed on March 24.

The launch of this initiative was announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Varanasi and will soon be translated into action through collaborative efforts between the district tuberculosis officer and the district panchayat raj officer (DPRO).

Principal Secretary (Health) Partha Sarathi Sen Sharma has issued detailed guidelines to chief medical officers and district tuberculosis officers (DTOs), including the director general of health, aligning with Chief Minister Yogis vision for TB-free gram panchayats. The campaign will involve training personnel from the district to the block level, who will subsequently educate village leaders in their respective areas.

Furthermore, close collaboration with the district TB centre will help prepare panchayats to attain TB-free status. The efforts to combat TB will also be integrated into the Panchayat Development Plans (PDP).

Director General of Health Dr Deepa Tyagi emphasised that the public is being educated comprehensively about tuberculosis, covering symptoms, prevention strategies, debunking misconceptions, treatment adherence, screening procedures, and the support provided by the Yogi government to TB patients, along with available treatment resources.

As part of the process, block development officers will submit claims of eligible gram panchayats aspiring for TB-free status at the block level, accompanied by necessary documentation, to the district tuberculosis officer for validation. The district TB team will then provide a list of verified gram panchayats eligible for the TB-free Panchayat status to the district magistrate. Subsequently, on World Tuberculosis Day (March 24) each year, the district magistrate will issue a TB-free Panchayat certificate with a one-year validity to panchayats meeting the criteria.

The Health department will closely collaborate with the Panchayat department to achieve the goal of TB-free panchayats. Key roles have been assigned to individuals from various positions, including the district tuberculosis officer, medical officer overseeing community and primary health centres, senior treatment supervisor (STS), TB home visitor (TBHV), senior TB lab supervisor, ANM, and ASHA workers.

ASHA workers will maintain records of TB patients, locate affected individuals within the community, assist in investigations, distribute medicines and provide guidance for adherence to treatment. They will also help TB patients register their bank account information to receive monthly support of Rs 500 for proper nutrition during treatment.

ANMs will spread awareness about TB symptoms using posters, conduct screenings and organise outreach programmes. Senior TB lab supervisors will coordinate with health centres for sample examination and provide transportation support.

The senior treatment supervisor and TB home visitor will contribute to active case finding (ACF), conduct home visits for TB patients, and assist in data collection for enrollment and stock registers.

The multi-faceted campaign underscores the Yogi Adityanath governments commitment to eradicate TB from Uttar Pradeshs grassroots communities, ensuring a healthier future for its residents.
Amid tight security that included house arrests and restrictions on people entering this communally sensitive Nuh district, some members from Hindu groups offered prayers at key temples on Monday but were stopped from holding a full-scale religious yatra.

The Vishva Hindu Parishad-led organisations had given a call to resume the religious yatra that was cut on July 31 when mobs attacked the procession in Nuh. Six people, including two home guards and a cleric, were killed in the communal violence that erupted then in Nuh, and also spread to adjoining areas.

Police made clear that no permission was being given to complete the yatra on the last Monday of the holy month of Shravan, and the organisers too had indicated that they would scale down their plans.

The State Government had made it clear that local people were free to offer the jalabhishek at the temples on the occasion, but no yatra would be permitted. Barricades were erected on the border of Nuh district, and outsiders kept away. The town itself wore a deserted look.

Earlier in the day, there were reports that some leaders from the Hindutva organisations were detained in adjoining Gurugram. Police did not give the numbers, but said they took action to maintain peace.

Only about 15 seers and leaders from Hindu outfits were allowed to enter the Nuh district. They were taken from the Nuh police lines to the three temples in Nalhar, Jhir and Singar on the original yatra route and brought back in four vehicles.

The distance between the first temple at Nalhar and the third at Singar is about 90 kilometres. A religious leader said about 100 local people accompanied them.

No incident of violence has been reported in Nuh or the adjoining districts till the evening. A video clip, however, surfaced online, purportedly showing a group of people burning an effigy of Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar over the restrictions.

Khattar on Sunday asked devotees to offer prayers at temples in their neighbourhood instead of holding any yatra. Permission has not been granted for the yatra, he had also said.

Nuh Deputy Commissioner Dhirendra Khadgata said around 15 seers and leaders of some Hindutva outfits were allowed to visit the Shiv temple in Nalhar to perform jalabhishek there.

In a statement, he said the jalabhishek programmes were held peacefully.

No organisation was allowed to take out processions in the district. Jalabhishek programmes were conducted peacefully throughout the day by the locals at Nalheshwar and Jhir temples, Khadgata said.

Additional Director General of Police (law and order) Mamta Singh said around 15 people were allowed for the jalabhishek at the three temples in Nalhar, Jhir and Singar.

VHPs working president Alok Kumar, Swami Dharm Dev, Swami Parmanand and others took part in jalabhishek. It was held peacefully, she said.

After the jalabhishek at Nalhar, the yatra left for Ferozpur Jhirkas Jhir temple in four vehicles. It ended with the jalabhishek in the Shiv temple in Singar village.

The permission was given by the district administration. The yatra was held peacefully, Swami Dharma Dev told PTI.

National vice-president of the BJPs minority morcha Chaudhary Zakir Hussain and his wife Naseema Hussain offered prayers at the Nalhar temple. He later released to the media a photo of him at the temple. Five major checkpoints were set up from the Delhi-Gurugram border until Nuh with media vehicles not being allowed to go beyond the third checkpoint.

According to officials, the vehicle of Hindu seer Jagatguru Paramhans Acharya from Ayodhya was stopped at the Ghamorj toll plaza near Sohna. Acharya told reporters that he and his followers were carrying the water of the Saryu river and the soil of Ayodhya for the jalabhishek at Nalhar temple but were stopped by the police.

Meanwhile, Hindu rights leader Kulbhushan Bhardwaj claimed that Hindu leaders have been put under house arrest by the Haryana government.

This is an attack on the Hindu faith. By putting Hindu leaders under house arrest, the Haryana government has reminded them of the reign of the Mughals, he said. Police personnel were also deployed outside Bhardwajs house.
Doctors at AIIMS Bhopal performed another miracle when Diwakar (name changed) and his wife Sunita (name changed), residents of Sagar, were blessed with a baby. When Sunita was five months pregnant, she came to know that she was suffering from blood cancer. The doctors in Sagar found out in the preliminary investigation that Sunita was suffering from blood cancer, but due to the child growing in the womb of five months, they raised their hands and referred her to AIIMS Bhopal.

On reaching here, Dr. Sachin Bansal, cancer specialist consoled the patient and his family members and advised them to get proper treatment for cancer. During the entire pregnancy, the cancer treatment of the patient and saving the life of the child was a challenging task in itself, which the doctors here performed brilliantly. During this Sunita was given a total of four sessions of chemotherapy. During this, Gynecologist Dr. Ajay Haldhar, Dr Pushpalata and Neonatologist Dr. Chetan Khare provided all kinds of help to the patient and normal delivery of the child was done with the help of their team.

The couple is overjoyed to give birth to a perfectly healthy baby. Today they have got discharge from AIIMS hospital and are not tired of thanking the doctors and staff of AIIMS.
The Lok Sabha elections are likely to be advanced as the BJP fears with time it will suffer more loss because of the opposition unity, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar said on Tuesday, backing a similar claim made by West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee.

Banerjee on Monday said that she was apprehensive that the Lok Sabha elections could be held in December this year, or in January.

Asked about the statement, Kumar told reporters, "I have been saying it for the last seven-eight months that the NDA government at the Centre might go for early Lok Sabha polls, fearing more loss to the BJP because of opposition unity."

"Therefore, all opposition parties must come together to defeat the BJP in the Lok Sabha polls. I am once again repeating that I have no desire for myself, I have no personal ambitions. My only wish is to unite the maximum number of parties (opposed to the BJP) before the elections," he added.

Kumar, who recently said that more parties are likely to join opposition coalition INDIA, declined to divulge any details.

"We have taken initiatives for unity among the opposition parties. The opposition coalition INDIA will further strengthen after the Mumbai meeting on August 31 and September 1," he said.

The chief minister was speaking to reporters after inaugurating the new campus of the Nalanda Open University.

Kumar said the exercise for the cast survey has been completed, and it will be soon published.

"The exercise has been completed. Now, the data is being compiled and it will soon be published. The final data will enable the government to work for the development of various sections of society, including those who are deprived. This will help us to know which areas require development. Let the detailed data be published, I am sure that other states will also follow it," he said.

Kumar said the decision to hold the caste-based survey was unanimous, and taken by the leaders of all political parties, including the BJP.

"Now, I am not paying any attention to what they are saying. Why is the Centre maintaining silence over the delay in the census? The exercise should have been completed in 2021. They (BJP leaders) should say something about it," he said.
Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) chief Sharad Pawar on Tuesday visited the venue of the INDIA alliance's upcoming meeting in Mumbai and took stock of preparations for the conclave of opposition leaders.

Key leaders of the anti-BJP bloc, which has more than two dozens parties, will gather in a luxury hotel in suburban Mumbai on August 31 and September 1 in what will be their third huddle since coming together on a common platform for the first time in June in Patna. A party functionary said Pawar was at the Grand Hyatt hotel for more than an hour and took stock of preparations for the two-day gathering.

Pawar, along with Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray and Congress leaders Nana Patole and Ashok Chavan will hold a press conference on Wednesday on the eve of the conclave. Speaking to reporters on Monday, Maharashtra Congress president Patole said senior Congress leader Sonia Gandhi, party president Mallikarjun Kharge and chief ministers of half a dozen states, among others, will attend the meeting.

The first meeting of the anti-BJP coalition was held in June in Patna, while the second gathering in Bengaluru in July finalised its name -- Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA). The grouping has been formed with an aim of taking on the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) in the 2024 parliamentary polls.
The Union Cabinet on Tuesday adopted a resolution hailing the soft-landing of Chandrayaan-3 on the lunar surface, saying the success of the mission is a victory not just for the ISRO but a symbol of India's progress and ascent on the global stage.

Briefing reporters on the decisions taken by the Cabinet, Union minister Anurag Thakur said it congratulated the Indian Space Research Organisation on its efforts.

The cabinet thanked the scientists and noted that India has become the first country to land near the Moon's south pole.

"Landing on the moon, with predicted accuracy, in itself is a momentous achievement.

"Landing near the South Pole of the Moon, overcoming the arduous conditions, is a testament to the spirit of our scientists, who since centuries have sought to push the boundaries of human knowledge," read the resolution.
The Maharashtra Congress will hold a grand felicitation for its senior leader Rahul Gandhi, who was recently reinstated as an MP, when he arrives in Mumbai this week for a meeting of the opposition INDIA bloc, party's state chief Nana Patole said on Tuesday.

Patole also said that the constituents of the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA)  Congress, Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena (UBT) and the NCP group with Sharad Pawar  will discuss the seat-sharing formula for next year's Lok Sabha polls on the basis of merit.

Key leaders of the anti-BJP bloc INDIA, which has more than two dozen parties now, will gather in a luxury hotel here on August 31 and September 1 in what will be their third huddle since coming together on a common platform for the first time in June in Patna.

Patole said, The Modi government disqualified Rahul Gandhi from Parliament as part of its revenge politics. But he did not budge and instead gave the message of Daro Mat' (do not be afraid). The state Congress will hold a grand felicitation of Rahul Gandhi as he will be spending two days here for the INDIA meet.

Responding to a query on the seat-sharing formula in Maharashtra, Patole said, There is no competition for seats in MVA. Even Uddhav Thackeray has clarified that seat sharing will be done on a merit basis. Our goal is to defeat the Modi government.

He said that about 62 per cent of voters did not vote for the BJP in 2019.

We want to avoid the division of votes against the BJP. Political parties like BRS (Bharat Rashtra Samithi) are coming (to Maharashtra) to divide votes as they are supported by the BJP, he said.

On Monday, Patole had said that senior Congress leader Sonia Gandhi, party president Mallikarjun Kharge and chief ministers of half a dozen states will attend the INDIA meeting. The gathering will also see the unveiling of the grouping's logo, he said.

The first meeting of the bloc was held in June in Patna, while the second gathering in Bengaluru in July finalised its name  Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA).
China on Monday officially released the 2023 edition of its standard map incorporating the disputed areas including its claims over Arunachal Pradesh, Aksai Chin region, Taiwan and the disputed South China Sea.

India has repeatedly said that the state of Arunachal Pradesh has "always been" and will "always be" an integral part of the country.

The 2023 edition of China's standard map was officially released on Monday and launched on the website of the standard map service hosted by the Ministry of Natural Resources, state-run Global Times said in a post on X, formerly Twitter.

This map is compiled based on the drawing method of the national boundaries of China and various countries in the world, the post said.

The map also displayed by the Global Times showed Arunachal Pradesh, which China claims as South Tibet, and Aksai Chin occupied by it in the 1962 war.

India has repeatedly told China that "Arunachal Pradesh was, is and will always remain an integral and inalienable part of India."

The map also incorporated China's claims over the estranged island of Taiwan and the nine-dash line claiming a large part of the South China Sea.

China claims Taiwan as part of its mainland and its integration with the mainland is part of a vowed objective of Chinese President Xi Jinping.

Vietnam, the Philippines, Malaysia, Brunei and Taiwan have counterclaims over the South China Sea areas.
A Pakistan high court said on Monday that it would announce on Tuesday its reserved verdict on former prime minister Imran Khans plea seeking the suspension of his three-year jail term given by a sessions court in the Toshakhana corruption case.

A divisional bench of Islamabad High Court (IHC) judges, comprising Chief Justice Amer Farooq and Justice Tariq Mehmood Jahangiri, reserved the verdict after hearing both parties counsels. The bench later stated that the reserved judgment would be announced at 11 am on Tuesday.

Earlier in the day, the IHC resumed hearing of appeal which it began hearing on August 22. It had adjourned the case on Friday after the lawyer representing the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) did not appear due to illness.

Khans lawyer Latif Khosa completed his argument on Thursday, asserting that the verdict was given in haste and full of shortcomings. He urged the court to set aside the sentence but the defence team demanded more time to complete its arguments.

Many believe that a favourable ruling for 70-year-old Khan may come after the Supreme Court highlighted faults in the judgment convicting Khan.

Meanwhile, the Balochistan High Court (BHC) on Monday dismissed a first information report (FIR) filed against Khan for making comments against state institutions and their officers during a speech.

A two-member bench comprising BHC Chief Justice Naeem Akhtar Afghan and Justice Gul Hasan Tareen announced the verdict on the petition filed by the Insaf Lawyers Forums (ILF) Iqbal Shah, Geo News reported.

The high court also dismissed the arrest warrants against Khan issued by the judicial magistrate.

Alhamdulillah, the court has dismissed the FIR registered against Imran Khan in Bijli Road police station in Quetta, once again Imran Khan has been vindicated in a false case, congratulations to all Pakistan on the victory of justice, Khans counsel Naeem Haider Panjutha wrote on X, formerly Twitter, celebrating the dismissal of the case.During Mondays hearing in IHC, the Election Commission of Pakistans (ECP) counsel Amjad Pervaiz urged the IHC to issue a notice to the state to make it a respondent in the case as, he said, the law made it necessary.When Pervaiz concluded his arguments, Khans lawyer Khosa said he did not have any objections to the ECP counsels plea to issue a notice to the state.

Subsequently, the court reserved its verdict on the case.

Separately, a three-member apex court panel led by Chief Justice Umar Ata Bandial and comprising Justice Mazahar Ali Akbar Naqvi and Justice Jamal Khan Mandokhail was also hearing petitions against the Toshakhana case.

The apex court bench has fixed the hearing of the Toshakhana case on Tuesday, according to Khans party.

The party said that the top court would hear the case after the announcement of the verdict by the Islamabad High Court.

Earlier, the Supreme Court on Wednesday hearing various petitions against the Toshakhana case observed that there were shortcomings in the judgment of the sessions court. The panel observed that the verdict was given in haste and without giving the right of defence to the accused. Prima facie, there are shortcomings in the trial court verdict, the chief justice said.

The apex court had also stated it would wait for the IHC hearing before giving its judgment. It resumed the hearing Thursday but adjourned it without fixing any date after it was told that the IHC was holding a hearing.

A trial court had convicted and sentenced the 70-year-old Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) chairman to three years in prison on August 5 in the case. Khan was sentenced on charges of unlawfully selling state gifts acquired by him and his family during his 2018-2022 tenure. He has also been barred from politics for five years, preventing him from contesting an upcoming election.

The Toshakhana case was filed by the ruling party lawmakers in 2022 in the ECP, alleging that Khan concealed the proceeds from the sale of state gifts. The ECP first disqualified him and then filed a case of criminal proceedings in a sessions court.

After a hearing spanning over months, Judge Humayun Dilawar of the Islamabad-based sessions court on August 5 awarded a three-year sentence to Khan for hiding the proceeds he got from the sale of state gifts.

Khan within days challenged the conviction in the Islamabad High Court (IHC), seeking to suspend his sentence and overturn the judgment.
Nearly 70 people were arrested at an alleged gay wedding ceremony in Nigeria under the countrys draconian anti-LGBTQ law, local police said Tuesday.

Authorities say the suspects were attending the event at a hotel in the southern state of Delta around 2 a.m. on Monday.

Police raided the hotel acting on intelligence gathered and initially arrested approximately 200 gay suspects, Bright Edafe, with the Nigeria Police Force, told reporters from a police station where the suspects were paraded to the media.

Of those arrested, 67 were later detained. They will be charged upon completion of the investigation, Edafe said.

The amazing part of it was that we saw two suspects  and there is a video recording  where they were performing their wedding ceremony, he said. We are in Africa and we are in Nigeria. We cannot copy the Western world because we dont have the same culture.

Nigerias Same-Sex Marriage (Prohibition) Bill  which was signed into law by former President Goodluck Jonathan in January 2014  imposes a 14-year prison sentence on anyone who [enters] into a same-sex marriage contract or civil union, and a 10-year sentence on individuals or groups, including religious leaders, who witness, abet, and aid the solemnization of a same-sex marriage or union.

It also imposes a 10-year prison sentence on those who directly or indirectly make [a] public show of [a] same-sex amorous relationship and anyone who registers, operates, or participates in gay clubs, societies, and organizations, including supporters of those groups.

Mass arrests on anti-LGBTQ grounds are not uncommon in the West African nation.

In 2020, a judge threw out a case against 47 men who faced charges of public display of affection with a member of the same sex after police failed to present some of their witnesses.

The men had been arrested in 2018 during a police raid on a hotel in Lagos, Nigerias most populous city.
An Israeli airstrike hit the international airport in the city of Aleppo in northern Syria early on Monday, damaging a runway and putting it out of service, Syrian state media said. State news agency SANA, citing a military official, said Israeli planes coming from the Mediterranean Sea carried out the attack at around 4:30 a.m. There were no casualties reported. The airport has been targeted several times this year, including two attacks in March that also put it out of service.

There was no immediate comment from Israeli officials.

Israel has carried out hundreds of strikes on targets inside government-controlled parts of Syria in recent years, including attacks on the Damascus and Aleppo airports, but it rarely acknowledges or discusses the operations. Often the strikes target Syrian military forces or Iranian-backed groups.

Israel has targeted airports and sea ports in the government-held parts of Syria in an apparent attempt to prevent arms shipments from Iran to militant groups backed by Tehran, including Lebanons Hezbollah. Thousands of Iran-backed fighters from around the region joined Syrias 12-year conflict helping tip the balance in favor of President Bashar Assads forces.
Pakistan police re-arrested human rights lawyer Imaan Mazari outside the Adiala Jail in Rawalpindi on Monday, hours after an Islamabad anti-terrorism court granted her bail in a sedition case. Confirming the arrest on X, formerly Twitter, the Islamabad police said Imaan was arrested in a terrorism case registered at the Bara Kahu police station.

The arrest comes hours after the Islamabad anti-terrorism court (ATC) granted Imaan and former lawmaker Ali Wazir post-arrest bail against surety bonds of Rs 30,000 each. Imaan, the daughter of former human rights minister Shireen Mazari, and Wazir were arrested on August 20 by Islamabad police, two days after they participated in a protest organised by the Pashtun Tahaffuz Movement (PTM), which advocates the rights of ethnic Pashtuns.

Imaan addressed in Islamabad a rally of the PTM, a group of ethnic Pushtu-speaking activists highly critical of the Pakistan Army, and criticised the powerful military establishment.

According to the first information report (FIR) filed against Imaan and Wazir, the two were arrested for staging a sit-in, resistance and interference in state affairs.
NATO members Poland and the Baltic states will seal off their borders with Russias ally Belarus in the event of any military incidents or a massive migrant push by Minsk, the interior ministers warned on Monday.

The ministers said they were seeing growing tensions on NATOs and the European Unions borders with Belarus, which has taken in thousands of Russias military mercenaries and is pushing Middle East and African migrants into Europe, despite barriers having been put up. They warned of swift and concerted reaction in the case of a military incident or large migrant push.

The ministers of Poland, Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia addressed the media following their talks. In a joint statement they demanded that the government of Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko immediately remove from its territory the Wagner Group mercenaries. They also demanded the removal of migrants from border areas and their return to their home countries.

The four countries, which are also European Union members support Ukraine in its fight against Russias invasion.

The sudden death of mercenary leader Yevgeny Prigozhin in a plane crash in Russia last week has raised questions about the future of the Wagner group, which Polands Interior Minister Mariusz Kaminski branded as extremely dangerous and demoralized.

He also said the mercenaries pose a threat to the citizens of Belarus and the entire region. Russias President Vladimir Putin has ordered the Wagner fighters to sign an oath of allegiance to the Russian state, according to a decree published on the Kremlins website late Friday and effective immediately.
Bank of Georgia Group PLC, through its subsidiaries, provides various banking products and services in Georgia. It operates through three segments: Retail Banking, Corporate and Investment Banking, and BNB. The Retail Banking segment offers consumer loans, mortgage loans, overdrafts, credit cards, and other credit facilities; funds transfer and settlement services; and customers' deposits for individuals and legal entities under the Express, Bank of Georgia, MSME, and SOLO brands. This segment primarily serves retail, mass retail and affluent, and high-net-worth client segments, as well as small and medium enterprises, and micro businesses. The Corporate Investment Banking segment provides loans and other credit facilities, funds transfers and settlement services, trade finance services, and documentary operations support services; handles saving and term deposits for corporate and institutional customers; and offers brokerage services. The BNB segment provides retail and corporate banking services to clients in Belarus. Bank of Georgia Group PLC was incorporated in 2017 and is headquartered in London, the United Kingdom.
Basilea Pharmaceutica AG, a commercial-stage biopharmaceutical company, focuses on the development of products that address the medical needs in the therapeutic areas of oncology and anti-infectives. It offers Cresemba, an intravenous and oral azole antifungal drug for the treatment of invasive aspergillosis and mucormycosis in the United States, and the European Union, as well as in Phase III clinical trials for invasive fungal infections in Japan. The company also provides Zevtera, an antibiotic for the treatment of community and hospital-acquired pneumonia, as well as in Phase III clinical trials for the treatment of acute bacterial skin and skin structure infections, and Staphylococcus aureus bacteremia. In addition, it engages in developing, a small-molecule inhibitor of DXR, as well as in phase  clinical trial for urothelial and gastric cancer; and Lisavanbulin, a tumor checkpoint controller drug. Basilea Pharmaceutica AG was founded in 2000 and is headquartered in Allschwil, Switzerland.
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Centrais Eletricas Brasileiras S.A. - Eletrobras, through its subsidiaries, engages in the generation, transmission, and distribution of electricity in Brazil. The company generates electricity through hydroelectric, thermal, nuclear, wind, and solar plants. It owned and operated 32 hydroelectric plants; As of December 31, 2022, it operated 32 hydroelectric plants; five thermal plants, including coal and gas power generation units with a total installed capacity of 1,482 megawatts; and two nuclear power plants comprising Angra I with an installed capacity of 640 megawatts and Angra II with an installed capacity of 1,350 megawatts. It also operates 66,939 kilometers of transmission lines. The company was incorporated in 1962 and is based in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
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China Resources Cement Holdings Limited, an investment holding company, engages in manufacture and sale of cement, concrete, and related products and services in Mainland China and Hong Kong. It operates through Cement and Concrete segments. The company engages in the excavation of limestone; and production, sale, and distribution of cement, clinker, and concrete. It offers Portland cement; and basic and structural building materials under the Runfeng brand. The company's products are used in the construction of infrastructure projects, such as railways, highways, subways, bridges, airports, ports, dams, and hydroelectric and nuclear power stations, as well as high-rise buildings, and suburban and rural area development. It also trades in cement, steel pipes, aggregates, and construction materials; provides environmental protection engineering and building materials testing and consultancy services; mines aggregates; manufacture and processes engineered stones; holds properties; and manufactures and sells prefabricated construction materials. The company was incorporated in 2003 and is headquartered in Wan Chai, Hong Kong. China Resources Cement Holdings Limited is a subsidiary of CRH (Cement) Limited.
Russian President Vladimir Putin did not attend the funeral of Wagner group leader Yevgeny Prigozhin, who died in a plane crash just months after his short-lived rebellion against the Kremlin.

A closed-door farewell ceremony was held Tuesday to honor the life of the 62-year-old mercenary chief, who recently launched one of the most significant challenges to Putins authority in his more than 20 years of rule.

Prigozhins spokespeople confirmed the services were carried out and urged those who still wish to pay their respects to visit the Porokhovskoye cemetery in Prigozhins hometown of St. Petersburg.

Russian President Vladimir Putin listens to Omsk Region Acting Governor Vitaly Khotsenko during a meeting at the Kremlin in Moscow, Russia, Monday, Aug. 28, 2023.

Prigozhin was one of 10 people aboard an ill-fated Embraer Legacy 600 jet when it crashed north of Moscow on Aug. 23, exactly two months after he launched his mutiny and threatened to march on Moscow. Days later, an incensed Putin dubbed the Wagner Groups actions a form of treason and accused the organizers of the rebellion of betraying Russia itself.

While Putin did not specifically name Prigozhin, the Russian leader further promised those involved in the uprising would suffer inevitable punishment.

Despite the presidents harsh words, the pair seemingly went on to strike an agreement that would resolve the feud peacefully. Prigozhin agreed to abort the coup as part of a deal with Putin that would allow him to escape terrorism charges and live freely in the allied nation of Belarus. But many people, even at the time, did not believe the mercenary chief would escape without punishment.

The countrys top criminal investigation agency, the Investigative Committee, officially confirmed Prigozhins death on Sunday. It stopped short of saying what might have caused his business jet to crash, but rumors have swirled that it was a revenge assassination for rising against Russian authorities.

The Kremlin has denied any involvement in Prigozhins death.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters earlier Tuesday that Putin did not have plans to attend Prigozhins memorial. When asked about the arrangements, he said the presidents presence is not envisaged, noting that the service should be viewed as a private matter for the warlords family members and friends.

Yevgeny Prigozhin, 62, was one of 10 people on board the plane from Moscow to St. Petersburg, according to a passenger list shared by Russian officials.

Once the owner of a simple hot dog stand, Prigozhin went on to open luxurious restaurants that would eventually capture the attention of the Russian president. He then expanded his catering business  oftentimes supplying meals and utility services to the Russian military  and in 2010, with Putins help, opened Prigozhins factory, which was built on generous loans from a state bank.

In Moscow alone, his company Concord won millions of dollars in contracts to provide meals to public schools.

In 2014, he co-founded the Wagner Group, a paramilitary organization used by Putin to project Russian influence. But as his forces fought and died en masse during the war in Ukraine, Prigozhin repeatedly raged against Russias military brass before launching his brief rebellion.

With News Wire Services
Curtiss-Wright Corporation, together with its subsidiaries, provides engineered products, solutions, and services to the aerospace, defense, general industrial, and power generation markets worldwide. It operates through three segments: Aerospace & Industrial, Defense Electronics, and Naval & Power. The Aerospace & Industrial segment offers industrial and specialty vehicle products, such as electronic throttle control devices, joysticks, and transmission shifters; sensors, controls and electro-mechanical actuation components used in commercial and military aircraft; and surface technology services, including shot peening, laser peening, and coatings. The Defense Electronics segment provides commercial off-the-shelf embedded computing board-level modules, data acquisition and flight test instrumentation equipment, integrated subsystems, instrumentation and control systems, and tactical communications solutions; turret aiming and stabilization products, and weapons handling systems; avionics and electronics; flight test equipment; and aircraft data management solutions. The Naval & Power segment offers hardware, pumps, pump seals, control rod drive mechanisms, valves, fastening systems, specialized containment doors, airlock hatches, spent fuel management products, and fluid sealing products for nuclear power plants and nuclear equipment manufacturers; and naval propulsion and auxiliary equipment, including coolant pumps, power-dense compact motors, generators, steam turbines, valves, and secondary propulsion systems, as well as ship repair and maintenance services primarily to the U.S. navy. Curtiss-Wright Corporation was founded in 1929 and is headquartered in Davidson, North Carolina.
Glaukos Corporation, an ophthalmic medical technology and pharmaceutical company, focuses on the development of novel therapies for the treatment of glaucoma, corneal disorders, and retinal diseases. It offers iStent, iStent inject, iStent inject W micro-bypass stents that enhance aqueous humor outflow inserted in cataract surgery to treat mild-to-moderate open-angle glaucoma. The company's product pipeline includes iStent Infinite, an implantable device intended to reduce the intraocular pressure of the eye; and iDose TR, a targeted injectable implant based on its micro-scale device-platform that is designed to deliver therapeutic levels of medication. The company markets its products through direct sales organization, as well as through distributors in the United States and internationally. Glaukos Corporation was incorporated in 1998 and is headquartered in Aliso Viejo California.
Core Molding Technologies, Inc., together with its subsidiaries, operates as a molder of thermoplastic and thermoset structural products. The company offers a range of manufacturing processes that include compression molding of sheet molding compound, resin transfer molding, liquid molding of dicyclopentadiene, spray-up and hand-lay-up, direct long-fiber thermoplastics, and structural foam and structural web injection molding. It serves various markets, including medium and heavy-duty truck, automobile, power sport, construction, agriculture, building products, and other commercial markets in the United States, Mexico, Canada, and internationally. The company was formerly known as Core Materials Corporation and changed its name to Core Molding Technologies, Inc. in August 2002. Core Molding Technologies, Inc. was incorporated in 1996 and is headquartered in Columbus, Ohio.
Mastercard Inc. is a leading technology company in the payments industry that provides payment processing solutions to businesses and consumers worldwide. Mastercard is one of the largest payment processors in the world by market cap and the number of payments processed.

Mastercard was founded in 1966 as Master Charge: The Interbank Card. The company was created to respond to the growing need for a secure and reliable payment processing system. In 1979, the company changed its name to Mastercard. Mastercard is in over 200 countries and territories and serves over 2.8 billion cardholders.

Mastercard operates on a business-to-business (B2B) model, providing payment processing services to financial institutions, merchants and governments. The company earns revenue primarily through transaction processing fees, cross-border fees and other value-added services. Mastercard's business is divided into four segments: domestic assessments, cross-border volume fees, transaction processing fees and additional revenue.

Mastercard's financial performance has been consistently strong in recent years, with revenue and earnings growth driven by increased transaction volumes and higher fees. Mastercard faces significant competition from other payment processing companies, including Visa Inc. (NYSE: V), American Express Co. (NYSE: AXP) and PayPal Holdings Inc. (NASDAQ: PYPL). However, Mastercard has maintained its position as one of the largest payment processors in the world due to its strong brand recognition, global network and innovative technology solutions.

Mastercard has consistently invested in innovative technology to enhance its payment processing solutions. One of the company's most significant innovations in recent years is Mastercard's tokenization technology, which provides a secure way to process payments without exposing cardholder data. Mastercard has also invested heavily in contactless payment technology, which has become increasingly popular during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Mastercard has a solid commitment to corporate social responsibility and sustainability. The company has set ambitious goals to reduce its carbon footprint, increase financial inclusion and promote gender equality. Mastercard is also actively involved in philanthropic efforts, including the Mastercard Foundation, which focuses on advancing financial inclusion in Africa.

As with any company, Mastercard faces several risk factors that could impact its financial performance. One of the most significant risks facing Mastercard is the potential for increased regulation of the payment processing industry. Mastercard is also vulnerable to changes in consumer behavior, such as a shift away from traditional payment methods toward mobile payments. Additionally, Mastercard's business depends on the overall health of the global economy, which could be impacted by factors such as inflation, geopolitical tensions and natural disasters.
North European Oil Royalty Trust, a grantor trust, holds overriding royalty rights covering gas and oil production in various concessions or leases in the Federal Republic of Germany. The company has rights under contracts with German exploration and development subsidiaries of ExxonMobil Corp. and the Royal Dutch/Shell Group of Companies. It holds royalties for the sale of gas well gas, oil well gas, crude oil, condensate, and sulfur. North European Oil Royalty Trust is based in Keene, New Hampshire.
Royal Bank of Canada operates as a diversified financial service company worldwide. The company's Personal & Commercial Banking segment offers checking and savings accounts, home equity financing, personal lending, private banking, indirect lending, including auto financing, mutual funds and self-directed brokerage accounts, guaranteed investment certificates, credit cards, and payment products and solutions; and lending, leasing, deposit, investment, foreign exchange, cash management, auto dealer financing, trade products, and services to small and medium-sized commercial businesses. This segment offers financial products and services through branches, automated teller machines, and mobile sales network. Its Wealth Management segment provides a suite of advice-based solutions and strategies to high net worth and ultra-high net worth individuals, and institutional clients. The company's Insurance segment offers life, health, home, auto, travel, wealth, annuities, and reinsurance advice and solutions; and business insurance services to individual, business, and group clients through its advice centers, RBC insurance stores, and mobile advisors; digital, mobile, and social platforms; independent brokers; and travel partners. Its Investor & Treasury Services segment provides asset servicing, custody, payments, and treasury services to financial and other investors; and fund and investment administration, shareholder, private capital, performance measurement and compliance monitoring, distribution, transaction banking, cash and liquidity management, foreign exchange, and global securities finance services. The company's Capital Markets segment offers corporate and investment banking, as well as equity and debt origination, distribution, advisory services, sale, and trading services for corporations, institutional investors, asset managers, private equity firms, and governments. The company was founded in 1864 and is headquartered in Toronto, Canada.
Golden Minerals Company, a precious metals exploration company explores for mineral properties. It explores for gold, silver, copper, zinc, lead, and other minerals. The company holds a 100% interest in the Rodeo gold mine situated in Durango State, Mexico; and a 100% interest in the Velardena and Chicago gold-silver mining properties and associated oxide and sulfide processing plants located in the State of Durango, Mexico. It also holds a 100% interest in the El Quevar advanced exploration silver property situated in the province of Salta, Argentina; Yoquivo property situated in Chihuahua State, Mexico; Sarita Este gold-copper property situated in the province of Salta, Argentina; and diversified portfolio of precious metals and other mineral exploration properties located in Argentina, Nevada, and Mexico. The company was formerly known as Apex Silver Mines Limited and changed its name to Golden Minerals Company in March 2009. Golden Minerals Company was founded in 1996 and is headquartered in Golden, Colorado.
Hitachi, Ltd. provides digital system and services, green energy and mobility, and connective industry solutions in Japan and internationally. It operates through seven segments: Digital Systems & Services, Green Energy & Mobility, Connective Industries, Automotive System, Hitachi Construction Machinery, Hitachi Metals, and Others. The company offers system integration, consulting, cloud services, storage, servers, and ATMs; finance solutions, social infrastructure information systems, government and public corporation information system, big data and AI, and IoT and data management; and IT products. It also operates power grids, nuclear and clear energy, renewable energy; provides energy management services and distributed power source solutions; semiconductors; elevators and escalators; air conditioners; industrial equipment; and railway systems. In addition, the company offers medical equipment for radiation therapy, In-vitro diagnosis, and regenerative medicines; automotive systems; home appliances; and water treatment solutions for water supply and sewage infrastructure, industrial water treatment, seawater desalination, and water recycling, as well as maintenance and repair services. Further, it hydraulic excavators, wheel loaders, mining machinery, construction solutions, and mine management systems. Additionally, the company offers specialty steel, functional components and equipment, power electronic and magnetic materials, wires, and cable and related products; optical disk drives; and property management services. Hitachi, Ltd. was founded in 1910 and is headquartered in Tokyo, Japan.
Not putting up with the defendants lawyers garbage, Washington Federal Judge Tanya Chutkan set Donald Trumps trial for trying to steal the 2020 election to begin on March 4. Trumps attorneys had argued for a date in April, not a month later, but 25 months later, in 2026. Trumps legal team didnt flag a particular day to counter Special Counsel Jack Smiths request for a Jan. 2 commencement, so assume they would have been satisfied with April 1, 2026. But Chutkan wasnt fooled.

Many have noted March 4, a Monday, is just a day ahead of Super Tuesday, when 15 states will have Republican presidential primaries or caucuses with Trump on the ballot.

However, we see March 4 as more symbolically important than the political calendar, as being about government and Americans self-rule under the Constitution. For most of our history with this Constitution, March 4 was Jan. 20, the beginning of a new term.

From George Washingtons first term and the 1st Congress gathering at Federal Hall downtown in 1789 to FDRs first term and the 73rd Congress, March 4 was inauguration day for both the president and the legislature (yes, we know that George wasnt sworn in until April 30 that very first time).

The four-month time lag from an early November election until the first week of March perhaps was fine during the days of horses, but by 1932 it was too long and the 20th Amendment, ratified in 1933, shortened the lame duck period until January. Since then, each new Congress would be sworn in on Jan. 3, with the president taking office on Jan. 20. The other change was instead of the old Congress counting and certifying the Electoral College vote in February, the new members would do the counting under the gavel of the old vice president on Jan. 6. Now, thanks to Trump, thats a date that everyone knows, including the D.C. grand jury that indicted him.

That once obscure date and its attending procedures were long just historical oddities until Trump and his gangsters decided to launch a coup against democracy and thwart Joe Bidens legal, landslide victory.

But Jan. 6 was just the last in a series of illegal efforts to change the results once he knew that he lost fair and square. Trump tried to get vote counts altered by election officials. He tried to get courts to change the outcomes. He tried to get Republican legislators to set aside the will of the people of their states and substitute a Trump victory. He tried to use fake electors to cast phony Electoral College votes for him. And as each con failed and the clock ticked towards Bidens term, Trump got more desperate, so he tried to get Vice President Mike Pence to throw out the legitimate Electoral College tally.

When Pence did his duty and refused, then Trump tried to sack the Capitol to prevent Bidens win from being finalized. That failed also.

That is Smiths case against Trump. It is not about politics. It is about the law and lawbreaking. The president, as the highest official in the land, is supposed to uphold the law, not break it.

See you in court on March 4, Mr. Trump.
Canadian Natural Resources Limited acquires, explores for, develops, produces, markets, and sells crude oil, natural gas, and natural gas liquids (NGLs). The company offers light and medium crude oil, primary heavy crude oil, Pelican Lake heavy crude oil, bitumen (thermal oil), and synthetic crude oil (SCO). The company's midstream assets include two pipeline systems; and a 50% working interest in an 84-megawatt cogeneration plant at Primrose. It operates primarily in Western Canada; the United Kingdom portion of the North Sea; and Offshore Africa. The company was formerly known as AEX Minerals Corporation and changed its name to Canadian Natural Resources Limited in December 1975. Canadian Natural Resources Limited was incorporated in 1973 and is headquartered in Calgary, Canada.
California Water Service Group, through its subsidiaries, provides water utility and other related services in California, Washington, New Mexico, Hawaii, and Texas. The company is involved in the production, purchase, storage, treatment, testing, distribution, and sale of water for domestic, industrial, public, and irrigation uses, as well as for fire protection services. It offers its services to approximately 496,400 customer connections in 100 California communities; approximately 6,200 water and wastewater customer connections on the islands of Maui, Oahu, and Hawaii; approximately 37,500 customer connections in the Tacoma, Olympia, Graham, Spanaway, Puyallup, Rainier, Yelm, and Gig Harbor areas; and approximately 10,700 water and wastewater customer connections in the Belen, Los Lunas, Indian Hills, and Elephant Butte areas in New Mexico. The company also engages in the provision of non-regulated water-related services, including operating of municipally owned water systems, privately owned water, and recycled water distribution systems; water system operation, meter reading, and billing services to private companies and municipalities; leasing of communication antenna sites on its properties to telecommunication companies; and billing of optional third-party insurance programs to its residential customers. In addition, it provides lab, wastewater collection, and treatment services. California Water Service Group was founded in 1926 and is headquartered in San Jose, California.
Crestwood Equity Partners LP develops, acquires, owns, controls, and operates assets and operations in the energy midstream sector in the United States. The company operates through three segments: Gathering and Processing North; Gathering and Processing South; and Storage and Logistics. The Gathering and Processing North segment offers natural gas, crude oil, and produced water gathering, compression, treating, processing, and disposal services to producers in the Williston Basin and Powder River Basin. This segment owns and operates natural gas facilities with approximately 818 MMcf/d of gathering capacity and 775 MMcf/d of processing capacity; crude oil facilities with approximately 250 MBbls/d of gathering capacity and 496,000 Bbls of storage capacity; and produced water facilities with approximately 421 MBbls/d of gathering and disposal capacity. The Gathering and Processing South segment provides natural gas gathering, compression, treating, and processing; and produced water gathering and disposal services to producers in the Delaware basins. This segment owns and operates natural gas facilities with 1.1 Bcf/d of gathering capacity and 613 MMcf/d of processing capacity; crude oil facilities with approximately 90 MBbls/d of gathering capacity; and produced water facilities with approximately 354 MBbls/d of gathering and disposal capacity. The Storage and Logistics segment offers natural gas liquids, crude oil, and natural gas storage, terminal, marketing, and transportation, including rail, truck and pipeline services to producers, refiners, marketers, utilities, and other customers. Crestwood Equity GP LLC serves as the general partner of Crestwood Equity Partners LP. The company was formerly known as Inergy L.P. and changed its name to Crestwood Equity Partners LP in October 2013. Crestwood Equity Partners LP was incorporated in 2001 and is headquartered in Houston, Texas.
The following companies are subsidiares of Crown: Adularia Inversiones 2010 S.L., Angleboard Sweden AB, Bates Cargo-Pak ApS, Butimove, CMB Machinery and Technology (Shanghai) Co Ltd, CROWN AP (Thailand) Company Limited, CROWN Aerosols & Promotional Nederland, CROWN Aerosols Italia Srl, CROWN Aerosols Nederland BV, CROWN Aerosols UK Limited, CROWN Americas LLC, CROWN Arabia Can Company Ltd, CROWN Asia Pacific Holdings Pte. Ltd., CROWN Asia Pacific Investments (T) Limited, CROWN Bevcan Espana S.L., CROWN Bevcan France SAS, CROWN Bevcan Slovakia s.r.o., CROWN Bevcan Turkiye Ambalaj Sanayi Ve Ticaret Limited Sirketi, CROWN Bevcan and Closures (Thailand) Company Limited, CROWN Beverage Cans (Cambodia) Limited, CROWN Beverage Cans (Dong Nai) Limited, CROWN Beverage Cans Beijing Limited, CROWN Beverage Cans Changchun Limited, CROWN Beverage Cans Danang Limited, CROWN Beverage Cans Hangzhou Limited, CROWN Beverage Cans Hanoi Limited, CROWN Beverage Cans Heshan Limited, CROWN Beverage Cans Hong Kong Limited, CROWN Beverage Cans Huizhou Limited, CROWN Beverage Cans Malaysia Sdn Bhd, CROWN Beverage Cans Nanning Limited, CROWN Beverage Cans Putian Limited, CROWN Beverage Cans Saigon Limited, CROWN Beverage Cans Shanghai Limited, CROWN Beverage Cans Sihanoukville Limited, CROWN Beverage Cans Singapore Pte. Ltd., CROWN Beverage Cans Ziyang Limited, CROWN Beverage Packaging LLC, CROWN Beverage Packaging Puerto Rico Inc., CROWN Cans Ghana Limited, CROWN China Holdings (Hong Kong) Limited, CROWN Commercial Belgium BVBA, CROWN Commercial France SAS, CROWN Commercial Germany GmbH & Co. KG, CROWN Commercial Hungary Kft, CROWN Commercial Netherlands B.V., CROWN Commercial Vermogensverwaltung GmbH, CROWN Cork & Seal USA Inc., CROWN Embalagens Metalicas da Amazonia S.A., CROWN Emballage France SAS, CROWN Emirates Company Limited, CROWN Envases Mexico S.A. de C.V., CROWN Famosa S.A. de C.V., CROWN Food Packaging (Thailand) Public Company Limited, CROWN Foodcan (Hat Yai) Company Limited, CROWN Foodcan (Nakhon Pathom) Company Limited, CROWN Foodcan Germany GmbH, CROWN Foodcan GmbH, CROWN Imballaggi Italia Srl, CROWN Imgallaggi Italia Srl, CROWN Italy Finance srl, CROWN Khmer Beverage Cans Limited, CROWN Maghreb Can, CROWN Magyarorszag Csomagoloipari KFT, CROWN Metal Packaging Canada Inc., CROWN Metal Packaging Canada LP, CROWN Middle East Can Co. Ltd., CROWN Packaging (Barbados) Limited, CROWN Packaging Holdings LLC, CROWN Packaging Investment (H.K.) Limited, CROWN Packaging Ireland Ltd, CROWN Packaging Jamaica Limited, CROWN Packaging Polska Sp.z.o.o., CROWN Packaging Technology Inc., CROWN Packaging Trinidad Limited, CROWN Packaging UK Limited, CROWN Promotional Packaging UK Ltd, CROWN SIEM, CROWN Senegal, CROWN Societe Malgache d'Emballages Metalliques, CROWN Speciality Packaging BV, CROWN Speciality Packaging Investment Pte. Ltd., CROWN Specialty Packaging UK Ltd, CROWN TCP Beverage Cans Company Limited, CROWN Verpakking Belgie NV, CROWN Verpakking Nederland B.V., Caretex Asia Ltd., CarnaudMetalbox Engineering Ltd, CarnaudMetalbox Food South Africa (Pty) Limited, CarnaudMetalbox Group UK Limited, CarnaudMetalbox Overeseas Limited, CarnaudMetalbox Overseas Limited, Cierres Hermeticos S.A. DE C.V., Constar International, Crown Americas Capital Corp., Crown Americas Capital Corp. II, Crown Americas Capital Corp. III, Crown Americas Capital Corp. IV, Crown Americas Capital Corp. V, Crown Americas Capital Corp. VI, Crown Brasil Holdings Ltda., Crown Canadian Holdings ULC, Crown Closures Spain S.L., Crown Colombiana S.A., Crown Comercial de Envases S.L., Crown Commercial Italy Srl, Crown Commercial Polska Sp. z.o.o., Crown Consultants Inc., Crown Cork & Seal Company (DE) LLC, Crown Cork & Seal Company Inc., Crown Cork & Seal Deutschland Holdings GmbH, Crown Cork & Seal Receivables (DE) Corporation, Crown Cork & Seal de Portugal Embalagens S.A., Crown Cork Kuban, Crown Cork and Seal Receivables II LLC, Crown Developpement SAS, Crown European Holdings, Crown Food Espana S.A.U., Crown Foodcan Turkey Ambalaj Sanayi Ve Ticaret Limited Sirketi, Crown Hellas Can Packaging SA, Crown Heshan Trading Company Limited, Crown Holdings Italia Srl, Crown Holdings Spain S.L., Crown International Holdings B.V., Crown International Holdings Inc., Crown Luxembourg Holdings, Crown Mexican Holdings S. de R.L. de C.V., Crown Overseas Investments B.V., Crown Packaging Commercial UK Limited, Crown Packaging Distribution UK Limited, Crown Packaging European Division GmbH, Crown Packaging European Division Services SAS, Crown Packaging European Holdings GmbH, Crown Packaging Lux I S.a.r.l., Crown Packaging Lux II S.a.r.l., Crown Packaging Lux III S.a.r.l., Crown Packaging Manufacturing UK Limited, Crown Packaging Maroc, Crown Receivables III, Crown Services Iberia, Crown UK Holdings Limited, Crownway Insurance Company, Dacro B.V., EMPAQUE, Fabricas Monterrey S.A. de C.V., Form Koruyucu Ambalaj Sanayi Ve Ticaret Limited Sirketi, Foshan Continental Can Co. Limited, Foshan Crown Easy-Opening End Co. Limited, Glass & Silice S.A. DE C.V., Globoplastt s.r.o., Gunther S.A.S., Haloila Bulgaria EOOD, Interstrap B.V., Josef Kihlberg AB, Kiwiplan GmbH, Kiwiplan Inc, Lachenmeier ApS, Liljendals Bruk AB, Litec France S.A.S., Mezger Heftsysteme GmbH, Mima Films S.a.r.l., Mima Films Sprl, Mima Packaging Systems S.A.S., Mivisa, Nordic S.A.S., Norsk Signode AS, Oy M. Haloila AB, PT CROWN Beverage Cans Indonesia, Package Design and Manufacturing, Prolatamex S.A. DE C.V., Quandel Verpackungs- und Foerdertechnik GmbH, SMB Schwede Maschinenbau GmbH, SMP Schwede Maschinenbau Weischlitz GmbH, SPG Denmark, SPG France Holdings SAS, SPG Germany Service Management GmbH, SPG Industrial Packaging S.a.r.l, SPG Netherlands B.V., SPG Packaging Ireland Limited, SPG Packaging Systems GmbH, SPG Packaging UK Ltd, Scybele S.A.S., Shippers Europe S.p.r.l., Signode BVBA, Signode Brasileira Ltda, Signode Hong Kong Limited, Signode Industrial Group, Signode Industrial Group AB, Signode Industrial Group Colombia S.A.S., Signode Industrial Group GmbH, Signode Industrial Group Holdings Lux S.a.r.l., Signode Industrial Group Holdings US Inc, Signode Industrial Group Lux S.A., Signode Industrial Group Mexico, Signode Industrial Group Sweden AB, Signode International Holdings LLC, Signode International IP Holdings LLC, Signode International Investment LLC, Signode Kabushiki Kaisha, Signode Korea Inc, Signode NZ Limited, Signode Netherlands B.V., Signode Packaging (Qingdao) Co., Signode Packaging (Shanghai) Co., Signode Packaging Espana S.L., Signode Packaging Group (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd., Signode Packaging Group Australia Pty Ltd, Signode Packaging Group Canada ULC, Signode Packaging Group NZ, Signode Packaging Systems Limited, Signode Pickling Holding LLC, Signode Polska sp. Z.o.o., Signode Singapore Pte. Ltd., Signode Sweden Holdings AB, Signode System GmbH, Signode System Packaging GmbH & Co. KG, Signode Systems (Thailand) Ltd., Signode US IP Holdings LLC, Silice De Veracruz S.A. DE C. V., Silice Del Istmo S.A. DE C.V., Silices De Veracruz, Societe Civile Immobiliere Rousseau-Ivry, Societe Civile Immobiliere des Baquets, Societe de Participations CarnaudMetalbox, Stopak India Pvt. Ltd, Strapex Austria GmbH, Strapex Embalagem L.d.a., Strapex Holdings Limited, Strapex S.A.S., Strapex Srl, Superior Investments Holdings Pte. Ltd., Superior Multi-Packaging Limited, TopFrame LLC, V.A.C. B.V., Vichisa S.A. de C.V., and Warehouse Automation Iberia S.L..

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The following companies are subsidiares of Ecolab: AO Ecolab, Abednego Environmental Services, Abednego Environmental Services LLC, Abednego Mexico Holdings LLC, Abednego de Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., Alcide Corp., Anios America S.A., Anios Diffusion SAS, Anios Manufacturing SAS, Aqua Environmental Limited, Bioquell, Bioquell Asia Pacific Pte. Ltd., Bioquell Global Logistics (Ireland) Ltd., Bioquell Holding SAS, Bioquell Inc., Bioquell Limited, Bioquell SAS, Bioquell Technology (Shenzhen) Ltd., Bioquell Technology Canada Ltd., Bioquell UK Limited, Bro-Tech Limited, CALGON LLC, CID LINES NV, CID Lines, CID Lines Beijing Animal Hygiene Co Ltd., CID Lines France Sarl, CID Lines Iberica SL, CID Lines LLC, CID Lines Mexico S.A. DE C.V., CID Lines R&D NV, CID Lines Sp. z o. o., CORPAK MedSystems, Cascade Water Services, Champion Technologies, Chamtech L.L.C., Chemlawn, Chemstar Corporation, Cirlam BVBA, Copal Holding NV, Copal Invest NV, Cymru Holdings Limited, DERYPOL SA, DMD, E&M Bio-Chemicals LLC, ECOLAB NL 10 B.V., ECOLAB PEST FRANCE SAS, EPN Water Col Ltd., Ecolab (Antigua) Ltd., Ecolab (Aruba) N.V., Ecolab (Barbados) Limited, Ecolab (China) Investment Co. Ltd, Ecolab (Fiji) Pty Limited, Ecolab (GZ) Chemicals Limited, Ecolab (Guam) LLC, Ecolab (Proprietary) Limited, Ecolab (Schweiz) GmbH, Ecolab (St. Lucia) Limited, Ecolab (Taicang) Technology Co. Ltd., Ecolab (Trinidad and Tobago) Unlimited, Ecolab (U.K.) Holdings Limited, Ecolab A.E.B.E., Ecolab AB, Ecolab AU2 Pty Ltd, Ecolab Acquisition LLC, Ecolab ApS, Ecolab Argentina S.R.L., Ecolab Asia Pacific Pte. Ltd., Ecolab B.V., Ecolab Bahrain S.P.C., Ecolab CDN 2 Co., Ecolab CDN 4 ULC, Ecolab CH 1 GmbH, Ecolab CH 2 GmbH, Ecolab CH 3 GmbH in Liquidation, Ecolab CH 6 GmbH, Ecolab Chemicals Limited, Ecolab Co. Compagnie Ecolab, Ecolab Colombia S. A., Ecolab DE 1 GmbH, Ecolab Deutschland GmbH, Ecolab Digital Center Private Limited, Ecolab EOOD, Ecolab East Africa (Kenya) Limited, Ecolab East Africa (Tanzania) Limited, Ecolab East Africa (Uganda) Limited, Ecolab Ecuador Cia. Ltda., Ecolab Engineering GmbH, Ecolab Europe GmbH, Ecolab Export GmbH, Ecolab FR 1 SAS, Ecolab FR 4 SAS, Ecolab Finance Company Designated Activity Company, Ecolab Food Safety & Hygiene Solutions Private Limited, Ecolab G.K., Ecolab Global Business Services LLC, Ecolab GmbH, Ecolab Gulf FZE, Ecolab HK 1 Limited, Ecolab HK 2 Limited, Ecolab Hispano-Portuguesa S.L., Ecolab Holding Italy S.r.l., Ecolab Holdings (Europe) LLC, Ecolab Holdings Inc., Ecolab Holdings Mexico S. de R. L. de C. V., Ecolab Hygiene Kft., Ecolab Hygiene d.o.o., Ecolab International SDN BHD, Ecolab Israel Holdings LLC, Ecolab JVZ Limited, Ecolab Korea Ltd., Ecolab LLC, Ecolab LUX & Co Holdings S.C.A., Ecolab LUX 1 Sarl, Ecolab LUX 2 Sarl, Ecolab LUX 4 Sarl, Ecolab LUX 7 Sarl, Ecolab LUX Sarl, Ecolab Limited, Ecolab Ltd., Ecolab Lux 10 Sarl, Ecolab Lux 12 SCA, Ecolab Lux 13 Sarl, Ecolab Lux 14 Sarl, Ecolab Lux 15 Sarl, Ecolab Lux 16 Sarl, Ecolab Lux 17 Sarl, Ecolab Lux 9 Sarl, Ecolab Lux Partner LLC, Ecolab MT Holdings LLC, Ecolab MT Limited, Ecolab Malta 1 Limited, Ecolab Malta 2 Limited, Ecolab Malta GPS, Ecolab Manufacturing IE Limited, Ecolab Manufacturing Inc., Ecolab Manufacturing UK Limited, Ecolab Maroc Societe a Responsabilite Limitee, Ecolab NL 11 B.V., Ecolab NL 15 BV, Ecolab NL 16 B.V., Ecolab NL 23 B.V., Ecolab NL 3 BV, Ecolab Name Holding Limited, Ecolab New Zealand, Ecolab Peru Holdings S.R.L., Ecolab Pest Deutschland GmbH, Ecolab Philippines Inc., Ecolab Production Belgium B.V., Ecolab Production France SAS, Ecolab Production Italy Srl, Ecolab Production LLC, Ecolab Production Netherlands B.V., Ecolab Production Poland sp. z o.o., Ecolab Pte. Ltd., Ecolab Pty Ltd., Ecolab Quimica Ltda., Ecolab S. de R.L. de C.V., Ecolab S.A., Ecolab S.A. de C.V., Ecolab SAS, Ecolab SIA, Ecolab SNC, Ecolab SRL, Ecolab Sdn Bhd, Ecolab Services Argentina S.R.L., Ecolab Services Malaysia SDN. BHD., Ecolab Services Poland Sp. z o, Ecolab Sociedad Anonima, Ecolab Sp. z o, Ecolab Spain Services S.L.U., Ecolab Temizleme Sistemleri Limited Sirketi, Ecolab U.S. 2 Inc., Ecolab U.S. 6 LLC, Ecolab U.S. 7 LLC, Ecolab US 1 GP, Ecolab USA Inc., Ecolab Viet Nam Company Limited, Ecolab Water Holding LImited, Ecolab a.s., Ecolab d.o.o., Ecolab s.r.l., Ecolab s.r.o., Ecolab y Compania Colectiva de Responsabilidad Limitada, Ecolab-Importacao E. Exportacao Limitada, Ecolabone B.V., Ecolabtwo B.V., Endoclear Equipamentos Medicos Hospitalares Ltda., Enviroflo Engineering Limited, Food Protection Services, GCS Service, Gallay Medical & Scientific Pty Ltd, Gallay Medical & Scientific Pty Ltd., GallayTrac Pty. Ltd., Georgia-Pacific - Paper Chemicals Business, Gibson Chemical Industries, Green Harbour Mainland Holdings Ltd, Henkel-Ecolab, Hicopla SL, Holchem Laboratories, Huntington Laboratories, Hydenet SAS, INTERNATIONAL WATER CONSULTANT B.V., Immobiliare R.E.O.P.A. SRL, Instrunet Hospital SLU, Jianghai Environmental Protection Co., Jianghai Environmental Protection Co. Ltd., KATAYAMA NALCO INC., Kay BV, Kay Chemical Company, LHS (UK) Limited, Laboratoires Anios, Laboratoires Anios S.A.S., Laboratoires Anios-Distribution SAS, Les Produits Chimiques ERPAC Inc., Lobster Ink, Lobster Ink Africa (Pty.) Ltd., Lobster International S.A., MOBOTEC AB LLC, Master Chemicals OOO, Meratech Rus Group LLC, Microtek Dominicana S.A., Microtek Italy S.R.L., Microtek Medical B.V., Microtek Medical Holdings, Microtek Medical Holdings Inc., Microtek Medical Inc., Microtek Medical Malta Holding Limited, Microtek Medical Malta Limited, Midland Research Laboratories, NALCO (SHANGHAI) TRADING CO. LTD., NALCO AB, NALCO ACQUISITION ONE, NALCO ACQUISITION TWO LIMITED, NALCO AFRICA (PTY.) LTD., NALCO ASIA HOLDING COMPANY PTE. LTD., NALCO BELGIUM B.V., NALCO CHINA HOLDINGS LLC, NALCO COMPANY OOO, NALCO DANMARK APS, NALCO DE MEXICO S. de R. L. de C.V., NALCO DELAWARE COMPANY, NALCO DEUTSCHLAND GMBH, NALCO DUTCH HOLDINGS B.V., NALCO EGYPT LTD., NALCO EGYPT TRADING, NALCO ESPANOLA MANUFACTURING S.L.U., NALCO ESPANOLA S.L., NALCO EUROPE B.V., NALCO FINLAND MANUFACTURING OY, NALCO FINLAND OY, NALCO FRANCE SAS, NALCO FRANCE SNC, NALCO GLOBAL HOLDINGS B.V., NALCO GLOBAL HOLDINGS LLC, NALCO HOLDING B.V., NALCO HOLDING COMPANY, NALCO HOLDINGS G.m.b.H., NALCO HOLDINGS UK LIMITED, NALCO HONG KONG LIMITED, NALCO INDUSTRIAL OUTSOURCING COMPANY, NALCO INDUSTRIAL SERVICES (NANJING) CO. LTD., NALCO INDUSTRIAL SERVICES (SUZHOU) CO. LTD., NALCO INDUSTRIAL SERVICES (THAILAND) CO. LTD., NALCO INDUSTRIAL SERVICES CHILE LIMITADA, NALCO INTERNATIONAL HOLDINGS B.V., NALCO INTERNATIONAL HOLDINGS LLC, NALCO INVESTMENTS U.K. LIMITED, NALCO ISRAEL INDUSTRIAL SERVICES LTD, NALCO ITALIANA HOLDINGS S.R.L., NALCO ITALIANA MANUFACTURING S.R.L., NALCO ITALIANA SrL, NALCO KOREA LIMITED, NALCO LIMITED, NALCO MANUFACTURING BETEILIGUNGS GMBH, NALCO MANUFACTURING LTD., NALCO NETHERLANDS B.V., NALCO OSTERREICH Ges m.b.H., NALCO OVERSEAS HOLDING B.V., NALCO PAKISTAN (PRIVATE) LIMITED, NALCO PHILIPPINES INC., NALCO PORTUGUESA (QUIMICA INDUSTRIAL) UNIPESSOAL LDA, NALCO PWS INC., NALCO SAUDI CO. LTD., NALCO TAIWAN CO. LTD., NALCO TWO INC., NALCO U.S. HOLDINGS LLC, NALCO UNIVERSAL HOLDINGS BV, NALCO WORLDWIDE HOLDINGS LLC, NALTECH INC., NANOSPECIALTIES LLC, NLC PROCESS AND WATER SERVICES SARL, Nalco (BN) SDN BHD, Nalco (China) Environmental Solution Co. Ltd., Nalco Anadolu Kimya Sanayi ve Ticaret Limited Sirketi, Nalco Canada ULC, Nalco Company LLC (1), Nalco Contract Operations LLC, Nalco Deutschland Manufacturing GmbH, Nalco Japan G.K., Nalco Libya, Nalco Middle East FZE, Nalco Polska Sp. z o. o., Nalco Production LLC, Nalco Real Estate GmbH, Nalco Schweiz GmbH, Nalco US 1 LLC, Nalco Wastewater Contract Operations Inc., Nalco Water India Private Limited, Nalco Water Pretreatment Solutions LLC, Nalco Worldwide Holdings S.a.r.l./B.V., National Wiper Alliance Inc., Nigiko, Nuova Farmec S.r.l., Oksa Kimya Sanayi A.S., Oy Ecolab AB, PT Ecolab International Indonesia, PT Ecolab Technologies and Services, Purate business - AkzoNobel, Purolite, Purolite (China) Co. Ltd., Purolite (Int.) Ltd, Purolite (Pty) Ltd, Purolite AG, Purolite GmbH, Purolite Ileri Kimyasal Ticaret Ltd, Purolite KK, Purolite LLC, Purolite Ltd, Purolite NZ Limited, Purolite Private Limited, Purolite Pte. Ltd., Purolite Pty Ltd, Purolite S. de R.L. de C.V., Purolite SAS, Purolite SRL, Purolite do Brasil Ltda, Purolite s.r.o., Purolite sp. z o.o., Purolite C Corporation, QazSorbent LLP, Quantum Technical Services LLC, Quimicas Ecolab S.A. de C.V., Quimiproductos S.A. de C.V, RP Adam Ltd, Research Fumigation Co., Royal Pest Solutions, Shield Holdings Limited, Shield Medicare Limited, Soluscope International Trading (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Soluscope SAS, Swisher Hygiene, TechTex Holdings Limited, Technical Textile Services Limited, Terminix, Ultrafab, VanBaele Hygiene AG, Wabasha Leasing LLC, Zhe Jiang Purosoft Home Appliances Sale Co Ltd, and vanBaerle Hygiene AG.

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Imperial Oil Limited engages in exploration, production, and sale of crude oil and natural gas in Canada. The company operates through three segments: Upstream, Downstream and Chemical segments. The Upstream segment explores for, and produces crude oil, natural gas, synthetic crude oil, and bitumen. The Downstream segment is involved in the transportation and refining of crude oil, blending of refined products, and the distribution and marketing of refined products. It also transports crude oil production and third-party crude oil to refineries by contracted pipelines, common carrier pipelines, and rail; owns and operates refineries; maintains a distribution system to move petroleum products to market by pipeline, tanker, rail, and road transport; owns and operates fuel terminals, natural gas liquids, and products pipelines in Alberta, Manitoba, and Ontario; markets petroleum products under the Esso and Mobil brands; and sells petroleum products, including fuel, asphalt, and lubricants for industrial and transportation customers, independent marketers, and resellers, as well as other refiners serving the agriculture, residential heating, and commercial markets through branded fuel and lubricant resellers. The Chemical segment manufactures and markets various benzene, aromatic and aliphatic solvents, plasticizer intermediates, and polyethylene resin; and markets refinery grade propylene. The company was incorporated in 1880 and is headquartered in Calgary, Canada. Imperial Oil Limited is a subsidiary of Exxon Mobil Corporation.
Prologis (NYSE:PLD) pays an annual dividend of $3.48 per share and currently has a dividend yield of 3.58%. The company has been increasing its dividend for 10 consecutive years, indicating the company has a strong committment to maintain and grow its dividend. The dividend payout ratio is 107.41%. Payout ratios above 75% are not desirable because they may not be sustainable. Based on earnings estimates, PLD will have a dividend payout ratio of 62.59% next year. This indicates that the company will be able to sustain or increase its dividend.

Read our dividend analysis for PLD.
Mitsui Chemicals, Inc. engages in the mobility, life and health care, basic and green materials, ICT, and other businesses worldwide. The company's develops elastomers, performance compounds, polypropylene compounds, and other materials; offers vision care materials, nonwoven fabrics and personal care materials, agrochemical products, and oral care and orthopedic materials. It offers semiconductor and assembly solutions, including process tapes, industrial films and sheets, smartphone camera lens materials, high-performance packaging materials, packaging films, and other products; imaging solutions, such as lens materials, materials for reflective films, and LCD and OLED sealing materials; battery material solutions; and converting solutions, including L-LDPE films, heat sealants, barrier coating materials, and packaging adhesives. In addition, the company offers petrochemicals, which comprise ethylene, propylene, high- and low-density polyethylene; basic chemicals, such as phenol, bisphenol, acetone, isopropyl alcohol, methyl isobutyl ketone, terephthalic acid, PET resin, ethylene oxide and glycol, hydroquinone, meta/para-cresol, ammonia, urea, and melamine; and polyurethane raw materials. It sells its products in Japan, China, Asia, the Americas, Europe, and internationally. Mitsui Chemicals, Inc. was founded in 1892 and is headquartered in Tokyo, Japan.
Critiques subjectivity detracts from its value

Danbury, Conn.: Ive never had a problem with Chris Jones as your Broadway theater critic (on loan from the Chicago Tribune?), finding myself in agreement with his reviews more times than not. Until recently. Im wondering if hes having a bad summer. He thought Back to the Future was a lemon and The Shark Is Broken was a messy shipwreck. I disagree on both.

With Shark, he undersold the three performances, two of which  Ian Shaw as his own father, Robert, and Alex Brightman as Richard Dreyfuss  I saw as worthy of Tony consideration. Ive seen both shows and the audiences seemed to be having a great time, as was I. Jones is not exactly acting as an arbiter of taste when he reviews shows based on his expectations going in: What psychological insights into Shaw might we be offered? and What deep-dive revelations await from a creative act that would appear to be both hubristic and profoundly courageous?

He apparently had similar personal expectations on the way into Back to the Future. This from a guy who had memorized the sex scenes from Jaws the book and was disappointed when they didnt make it into the film (a huge hit without them, I might add). Books are never a straight-line translation to film. Matt Hooper had an affair with Chief Brodys wife in the book and died at the end. So, going by old-time Hollywood standards, remove the affair and remove the reason he needed to die.

I would admonish Jones to review whats on stage, not what hed like to be there or hoped would be there on his way in. Michael Eddy

Wildlife disharmony

New Rochelle, N.Y.: As soon as I heard the report about a bear attacking a boy, I suspected the incident was exaggerated, and that is indeed the case. A baby bear, not yet fearful of humans, and a 7-year-old who should not have been left unattended in an area that is habitat to wildlife, unfortunately cross paths  and the young bear is shot to death by trigger-happy responders. The kid was scratched. What precipitated the encounter? Was the bear being fed, or were trash cans left out? Humans are the danger, not wild creatures in what is their home. Christina De Respiris

Abandoned mission

Flushing: It makes my blood boil to see the Catholic nuns who operate a shelter for victims of domestic violence are trying to close The Dwelling Place. Apparently, fiscal mismanagement is the culprit, but where, pray tell, is the Catholic church in this scenario? Its absolutely shameful they havent stepped up to the plate and bailed out this very much-needed shelter. Then again, since when has the church cashed in some of its gold trinkets to actually help desperate individuals (in particular, women). Disgraceful in the extreme. J.M. Culley

Still in play

Bronx: How could the Mets not retire Gary Carters number? But they will do Dwight Gooden and Darryl Strawberry. Disgraceful. Ralph Canzone Sr.

Precedent caseworkers

Manhattan: Probation officers need better pay (op-ed, Aug. 27) by NYC Councilman Robert Holden raises an issue in common with most public employment: Compensation in city jobs is becoming non-competitive with private enterprise. So, the United Probation Officers of America ploy of getting the administration to require uniforms and firearms is transparent  at some point, an arbitrator will find substantial parity with other peace officers. There is an unexplored parallel: Sixty years ago, the city had social investigators (the predecessor civil service title to caseworker) who determined eligibility for welfare benefits and provided the full range of social work services. At the peak of the Civil Rights movement, those hybrid functions came to be regarded as vestiges of the plantation. They were scrapped. If the perception of the probation officers function segues from helper to enforcer, will that too be viewed as paternalistic? Michele P. Brown

Warrior mindset

Manhattan: Re Cop slammed in bizarre cooler slay (Aug. 24): Eric Duprey was a casualty in the war on drugs. Drug dealing is a consensual transaction that shouldnt be criminalized. But as long as drug warriors such as Sgt. Erik Duran believe that they are fighting a righteous war, incidents like this are bound to happen. James Baldwin

Toxic beaches

Brooklyn: Raw sewage is closing down beaches here in Brighton Beach, Coney Island, Staten Island and various beaches in Suffolk County. This has got to stop! This is sick and dangerous! Our fish are being poisoned and dying. Our childrens health is at risk. Worse is to think that 31 years ago, Mayor David Dinkins said it would stop! Last summer it was reported that traces of the polio virus were found in untreated wastewater released into NYCs waters. I phoned Gov. Hochuls office 25 times, both upstate and downstate, for weeks beginning in September 2022 in regards to the polio virus in our swimming waters. I left messages and more messages but did not get one response from her or her staff. Under that kind of irresponsibility, I certainly withheld my vote for her. Evan Payson

Buy American

Glendale: I just received an email in which the United States National Park Foundation is sponsoring a contest in which the top prize is a Subaru Solterra EV. After the U.S. government bailed out American car makers in 2008/2009, you would think that our government would be promoting American car companies. Instead, a foreign vehicle is being offered. What a sad state of affairs this once-great economy has become. I hope all readers of this letter see the obvious wrong direction of where we are going as a country. Thomas Murawski

Dragged em down

Orange, Conn.: With Donald Trump flying into Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport on Thursday, a song comes to mind by the late, great Charlie Daniels: The devil went down to Georgia, he was lookin for a soul to steal. Evil Donny found 18 souls to follow him over the cliff like blind lemmings. He rosined up his bow and played the tune that led them into oblivion, blinded by the light of the Devil himself. Fred Portoff

Unwise

Staten Island: To Voicer Cecilia Rivera: You stated that the Daily News is a liberal rag, among other debasing comments. My query is why would you read this paper if you feel it is a rag? Also, you said the Daily News spews lies about Donald Trump. Ms. Rivera, Trump has a large number of indictments and President Biden has zero. You are, in my opinion, another Trumpster who is a dullard, as are all individuals who voted for this man. Jeffrey Van Pelt

Official descent

Henderson, Nev.: Former President Donald J. Trump: from the White House to the big house. Nobody is above the law, not even the president! David Tulanian

Strategic attack

Greenwood Lake, N.Y.: I find it interesting that Voicer Dennis Pascale thinks the laws should be changed so Trump would have to pay for any court expenses. Such blind hate expressed in this letter, so typical of the intolerant left. I think the new Democratic Party mantra should be: If you cant beat em, maim em. The timing of these coordinated prosecutions seems to be aimed at keeping Trump from campaigning. Interesting. Joe Fioramonti

Anti-pol pipe dream

Bronx: To Voicer Jimmy Durda: This is the reason why we are in the political mess we are in today  because people like me voted for a non-politician. Sorry, America, lets not make the same mistake in the next election. Daniel Correa

Nation in decline

Jackson Heights: I just returned from a trip to Philadelphia and a visit to the final resting place of Benjamin Franklin, where I heard an unidentifiable noise. Learning about the obstacles our Founding Fathers overcame, and how they worked so diligently to create the unique Declaration of Independence, I feel that Franklin is aware of current events and the sad state of the country he helped create. Could the sound I heard have been Ben rolling around in his grave? Glenn B. Jacobi
Masonite International Corporation designs, manufactures, markets, and distributes interior and exterior doors for the new construction and repair, renovation, and remodeling sectors of the residential and non-residential building construction markets worldwide. It offers molded panel, flush, stile and rail, steel, and fiberglass residential doors, as well as medium-density fiberboard (MDF) and architectural interior doors. The company also provides various door components, including interior door facings, agri-fiber and particleboard door cores, MDF and wood cut-stock components, critical door components, and mineral and particleboard door cores. It offers its products under the Masonite, Premdor, Masonite Architectural, Marshfield-Algoma, USA Wood Door, Solidor, Residor, Nicedor, Door-Stop International, Harring Doors, National Hickman, Graham-Maiman, Louisiana Millwork, Florida Made Door, Baillargeon, and BWI brands to remodeling contractors, builders, homeowners, retailers, dealers, lumberyards, commercial and general contractors, and architects through wholesale, retail, and direct distribution channels. The company was founded in 1925 and is headquartered in Tampa, Florida.
BellRing Brands, Inc. (NYSE:BRBR) released its earnings results on Monday, August, 7th. The company reported $0.34 earnings per share for the quarter, beating analysts' consensus estimates of $0.32 by $0.02. The business earned $445.90 million during the quarter, compared to analysts' expectations of $439.90 million. BellRing Brands had a negative trailing twelve-month return on equity of 44.58% and a net margin of 9.73%. The business's revenue was up 20.3% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter last year, the business earned $0.31 earnings per share.
Aaron's (NYSE:AAN) pays an annual dividend of $0.50 per share and currently has a dividend yield of 6.93%. AAN has a dividend yield higher than 75% of all dividend-paying stocks, making it a leading dividend payer. The company has been increasing its dividend for 13 consecutive years, indicating the company has a strong committment to maintain and grow its dividend. The dividend payout ratio is 166.67%. Payout ratios above 75% are not desirable because they may not be sustainable. Based on earnings estimates, AAN will have a dividend payout ratio of 45.45% next year. This indicates that the company will be able to sustain or increase its dividend.

Read our dividend analysis for AAN.
The Toronto-Dominion Bank, together with its subsidiaries, provides various financial products and services in Canada, the United States, and internationally. It operates through three segments: Canadian Retail, U.S. Retail, and Wholesale Banking. The company offers personal deposits, such as chequing, savings, and investment products; financing, investment, cash management, international trade, and day-to-day banking services to businesses; and financing options to customers at point of sale for automotive and recreational vehicle purchases. It also provides credit cards and payments; real estate secured lending, auto finance, and consumer lending services; point-of-sale payment solutions for large and small businesses; wealth and asset management products, and advice to retail and institutional clients through direct investing, advice-based, and asset management businesses; and property and casualty insurance, as well as life and health insurance products. The company also provides capital markets, and corporate and investment banking products and services, including underwriting and distribution of new debt and equity issues; advice on strategic acquisitions and divestitures; and trading, funding, and investment services to corporations, governments, and institutions. It offers its products and services under the TD Bank and America's Most Convenient Bank brand names. It has a strategic alliance with Canada Post Corporation. The Toronto-Dominion Bank was founded in 1855 and is headquartered in Toronto, Canada.
Conservative politicians and commentators accuse public schools of teaching revisionist history by including the study of racial, ethnic, gender and religious prejudice. Its a peculiar argument, in light of the clear connections between the mistreatment of various groups throughout U.S. history and discrimination today. Some feel this is teaching woke ideology. Its really just reality.

I taught history and political science at a rural, mostly white high school in Upstate New York for 32 years. If I had ignored issues of disadvantaged segments of U.S. society, I wouldnt have been doing my job. If I had acquiesced to parents objecting to this subject matter, I would have abandoned the idea that society moves forward by challenging norms that perpetuate racism, bigotry and misogyny.

Families can teach their children whatever they please. However, public schools educate students to become productive members of a pluralistic society made up of many races, religions, gender associations and ethnic groups.

Though clearly in the minority, I had some students who were taught by their families to be intolerant of anyone who was not white, Christian and born in America. My job was to show those students a different path. Sometimes families disagreed. I once had a parent object to his son getting a lower grade than an African-American student.

Its important to study slavery, which gave birth to todays racism. Jeffersons book, Notes on the State of Virginia, is a racist creed. Jefferson had children with Sally Hemings, who remained enslaved, along with their kids until after his death. Its completely appropriate to highlight Jeffersons hypocrisy.

Hispanics have been subjected to prejudice and policies that have made it difficult for them to move up in American society or obtain full citizenship. Today, millions of Dreamers, many of them Hispanic, have grown up in the U.S., but are still subject to deportation.

Historical mistreatment of Blacks and Hispanics hasnt been rectified. Intolerance and discrimination are still major issues today.

Many politicians and police claim that focusing patrolling on Black and Hispanic neighborhoods is justified, though, according to the Justice Department, by far, most crimes are committed by white people. Additionally, Blacks are 300%, and Hispanics 50%, more likely to experience the use of force by police.

Conservatives speak of white discrimination, though statistics illustrate the opposite.

Blacks (65%) and Hispanics (73%) have incomes far below white income.

Blacks and Hispanics are twice as likely to be poor compared to whites.

Black and Hispanic home ownership is roughly half that of whites.

The average white persons total wealth is 700% higher than a Black persons and 450% higher than a Hispanic person.

39% of Hispanics in the U.S. fear that someone in their family will be deported.

Conservatives have made critical race theory (CRT) a cause celeb, accusing schools of making white kids feel bad because theyre white. This ignores the fact that only 4% of public schools mandate teaching CRT. Teaching about the racial history of America does not involve blaming white kids for historical injustice. Its presented to make them aware of the past so we dont repeat it, exactly why we teach history in the first place.

The mistreatment of Native Americans is another uncomfortable aspect of our past that needs to be taught. Theres little to celebrate in U.S. history in regard to Native people, but kids need to know about it and understand how their history affects their lives today.

Teaching acceptance of individuals and students who choose on their own to make gender or sexual orientation choices should not be controversial. Critics conflate acceptance with advocacy of joining the LBGTQ community. Thats just not whats happening in schools.

It shouldnt be controversial to teach kids that women should be equal to men. In doing so, we delve into the history of discrimination women have and continue to face. Women endure gaps in income, wealth and advancement similar to that of disadvantaged groups. Theres nothing wrong with pointing this out and advocating for a better future.

We shouldnt ignore these issues because some people feel uncomfortable. This is how societies progress.

Parents who dont like whats being taught to their children in public schools can opt for home or private schools that dont mind whitewashing the past. They dont have the right to micromanage public school curriculum or bully educators, or school boards, to eliminate anything that conflicts with their own belief systems.

Politicians risk turning public education over to a vocal minority who dont represent the views of most Americans, jeopardizing the education of millions of students.

Driscoll is a retired teacher/administrator with a 34 year career in education and a former 10-year member and president of his local board of education.
Newly launched Bilingual English-English-Telugu Dictionary

Hyderabad: On the occasion of the Telugu Language Day, observed on 29 August every year, the Oxford University Press (OUP), a department of the University of Oxford, announced the launch of a new edition of bilingual English-English-Telugu Dictionary. Telugu Language Day coincides with the birthday of the Telugu poet Gidugu Venkata Ramamurthy. It is celebrated across Telangana and Andhra Pradesh with the objective of the betterment of the Telugu language.

Incorporating 3,000 new words in the new edition, the Oxford Compact English-English-Telugu Dictionary includes over 27,000 words, phrases, idioms, phrasal verbs and derivatives with their detailed translations in Telugu. It contains over 1,100 synonyms and antonyms and 2,000 keywords that are the most important words to know in English. The new cover design, featuring Kalamkari, a type of hand-painted cottontextile indigenous to the states of Andhra Pradesh & Telangana, illustrates the rich cultural heritage, art and linguistic identity of the region, binding the people with their roots.

Bilingual dictionaries, especially, prove invaluable for individuals who predominantly engage with their mother tongue in reading and writing, yet aspire to attain proficiency in English. It underscores the significance of safeguarding India's diverse linguistic heritage: an approach that will enhance cultural consciousness, anchoring students to their and linguistic cultural roots. OUP India currently publishes dictionaries in 12 Indian languages: Assamese, Bengali, Gujarati, Kannada, Malayalam, Marathi, Punjabi, Odia, Tamil, Telugu, Urdu, and Hindi.

Launching the new edition, Sumanta Datta, Managing Director, Oxford University Press India, said, "Investing in lexical content, delivering authoritative dictionaries and continuously monitoring language development is central to OUPs mission. The Oxford Compact English-English-Telugu Dictionary has been updated with evidence-based lexical research programmes. Our lexicographers analyse genuine uses of words to determine a words definition, spelling, and grammatical behaviour, and offer guidance on a words use based on this research. The new edition of the Compact English-English-Telugu Dictionary comprehensively documents words related to Covid-19, words crucial to the Dalit identity and Telugu orthography, which will help the students learn the correct pronunciation of English words through the scaffolding of their mother tongue."

Sumanta added, "Oxford Dictionaries are an important part of OUPs publishing history and rich legacy, making us the worlds leading dictionary publisher. Published in over 40 languages worldwide including 12 Indian languages, our dictionaries have been a trusted resource with millions of language learners, comprising students, teachers, professionals, and general readers. Our bilingual dictionaries are ideal for those who read and write in their mother tongue and wish to achieve fluency in the English language."

OUP is at the forefront of supporting initiatives taken by various state governments to introduce English-medium education in Government schools, under various learning initiatives and schemes run by the State Education and Social Welfare departments.

The state government of Andhra Pradesh, for three consecutive years, has procured and distributed these Oxford Compact Dictionaries as a part of their 'Jagananna Vidya Kanuka Kit to the students of grades 6 to 10. OUP also collaborated with Telangana Social Welfare and Telangana Tribal Welfare departments for distribution of these dictionaries for their affiliated schools.

The key features of Oxford Compact English-English-Telugu Dictionary are:

Includes over 27,000 words, phrases, idioms, phrasal verbs and derivatives with their detailed translations in Telugu

Over 1,100 synonyms and antonyms

2,000 keywords that are the most important wordsto know in English

Over 5,000 example sentences

Includes additional pages on irregular verbs, geographical namesand study pages on prepositions of place and movement

500 notes on spelling, grammar, and pronunciation

Gives accurate pronunciation of words in IPA and Telugu script

Includes COVID-19 words like lockdown, pandemic, quarantine,PPE, face mask, hand sanitizer, and more

Includes 20+ words crucial to the Dalit Identity

With a longstanding presence of over a century in India, OUP is the world's largest university press with the widest global presence. Its diverse publishing programme includes scholarly work in all academic disciplines, school and higher education textbooks, children's books, materials for teaching English, reference books, academic journals and dictionaries. OUP also provides blended learning solutions designed to meet classroom teaching and learning needs and self-study.

OUPs English language corpus is the largest and the most authoritative living language corpus in the world which is constantly updated and refined every quarter. The unimpeachable content of our dictionaries is backed by OUP webinars and training workshops for teachers and learners.
Following the death of Bob Barker at age 99 on Saturday, assets from the former Price Is Right hosts estate will be going to dozens of nonprofit organizations.

Roger Neal, Barkers longtime representative, told TMZ this week that a bulk of the estate assets will be donated to more than 40 animal rights organizations and military nonprofits.

Those beneficiaries include DonkeyLand, a sanctuary for wild burros and rescued donkeys headquartered in Riverside, Calif., and Sea Shepherd Conservation Society, an organization that uses a fleet of ships to protect oceans and marine wildlife.

In this file photo, Bob Barker, a longtime animal rights advocate, plays with his 8-year-old rabbit, Mr. Rabbit, at his home in Los Angeles on Dec. 13, 2011.

In a Facebook post on Saturday, the DonkeyLand team said they were deeply saddened by Barkers passing.

He was a treasure on earth and a compasionate [sic] legend in the animal kingdom helping animals all over the world, the organization wrote. We are very grateful to Bob Barker and Nancy Burnet [Barkers longtime girlfriend] for helping DonkeyLand in a tremendous way through dedicated grants and donations to help us provide a rescue center for the sick, injured and orphans in our care, as well as a sanctuary and wildlife preserve.

And on Sunday, Sea Shepherd paid tribute to Barker by sounding the horn of its ship Age of Union for one minute, according to an announcement on the organizations website. In 2009, Barkers donations helped Sea Shepherd acquire a ship, which was then named in his honor, to combat whaling in the Antarctic, the post added.

According to Neal, assets from Barkers estate will also go toward the United Activists for Animal Rights charity. Burnet is the groups president.

The rep also gave TMZ insight into Barkers final days, saying the TV host spent a lot of time watching Two and a Half Men reruns, indicating to those around him that he still had his sense of humor.
External affairs minister S. Jaishankar said, It is an old habit of China to include areas in their maps that belong to other countries. (Image: DC)

New Delhi: Ahead of the G20 Summit next month and suspense over the visit of Chinese President Xi Jinping to India, the reported inclusion of Arunachal Pradesh and Aksai Chin region in the 2023 edition of China's standard map triggered fresh controversy. This comes days after Xi met Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the BRICS summit in South Africa.

External affairs minister S. Jaishankar said, "It is an old habit of China" to include areas in their maps that belong to other countries." Speaking to a TV channel and lambasting Beijing, Dr Jaishankar said, "Making absurd claims doesnt make other peoples territory yours."

India announced that it had rejected Beijings move and lodged a strong protest with China on the matter, adding that "such steps by the Chinese side only complicate the resolution of the boundary question".

In response to media queries, MEA spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said, "We have today lodged a strong protest through diplomatic channels with the Chinese side on the so-called 2023 'standard map' of China that lays claim to Indias territory. We reject these claims as they have no basis."

The Chinese State-run Global Times had on Monday said, the "2023 edition of China's standard map was officially released on Monday and launched on the website of the standard map service hosted by the Chinese ministry of natural resources" and that "this map is compiled based on the drawing method of national boundaries of China and various countries in the world."

According to media reports, disputed maritime regions in the South China Sea have also been shown as part of China. Beijing has maritime disputes with some of the south-east Asian nations as well such as Vietnam and the Philippines.

Indias north-eastern State of Arunachal Pradesh is coveted by Beijing which regards it as Chinese territory and calls it "south Tibet". New Delhi has maintained that Arunachal will always continue to be an integral and inalienable part of India. It may also be recalled that the Aksai Chin region to the North has been illegally occupied by China at least since the past six decades. New Delhi regards Aksai Chin too as Indian territory.

Asked about the border issues with China, Dr Jaishankar said "This government (in India) is very clear" that the borders would be fully defended. "There is no problem you cannot solve," he said when asked whether he thought that negotiations with China would bear fruit.
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee addresses during the foundation day celebrations of Trinamool Congress Chhatra Parishad, in Kolkata, Monday, Aug. 28, 2023. (PTI Photo)

KOLKATA: West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Monday said that the BJP might conduct the Lok Sabha polls in December itself, claiming that all choppers have been booked by the saffron party for campaigning.

Banerjee, who was speaking at a TMC youth wing rally, cautioned that a third term for the BJP would ensure the nation faces an autocratic rule.

The chief minister also blamed some people engaged in unlawful activities for the illegal firecracker factory blasts that have occurred in the state. She alleged that this was being done with support from a few police personnel.

"If BJP returns to power for the third consecutive term, the nation would face an autocratic rule. I am apprehensive that they (BJP) could hold the Lok Sabha elections in December 2023 itself...

The saffron party has already turned our country into a nation in the throes of animosity among communities. If they return to power, it will make our country a nation of hatred," she said.

The BJP has already booked all choppers to campaign in the Lok Sabha polls, so that no other political party can use those for canvassing, Banerjee claimed.

Speaking about the blast at an illegal firecracker factory in West Bengal's North 24 Parganas district on Sunday morning in which nine people were killed, the CM said: Some people are engaged in illegal activities, and a few police personnel are supporting this.

The majority of policemen are doing their duty with utmost sincerity, but some are helping such people. They must remember that just like the anti-ragging cell, we also have an anti-corruption cell in Bengal.

The TMC supremo urged those involved in the firecracker industry to start manufacturing green firecrackers.

"What is the problem in producing green firecrackers? Maybe the profit is a bit less, but it is much safer and environment-friendly," she said.

Banerjee also alleged that Governor C V Ananda Bose was violating constitutional norms, and that she does not support his unconstitutional activities.

Don't take 'panga' (challenge) with an elected government, the chief minister said, referring to Bose.

The feisty TMC boss said she had ended the three-decade-long CPI(M) rule in Bengal, and will now defeat the BJP in the Lok Sabha elections.

Hitting out at ABVP and BJP activists who raised 'goli maro' slogans at Jadavpur University, Banerjee said she had instructed the police to arrest those involved in voicing hate slogans at the varsity.

"Those raising such slogans should not forget this is Bengal; this is not Uttar Pradesh," she asserted.
Speaking to the media at Rajamahendravaram on Monday, Veerraju said the appointment of non-religious people in Hindu religious committees was an insult to Hindus. The present TTD chairman Bhumana Karunakara Reddy had stated in his election affidavit that he was a Christian. Chief minister Jagan Reddy ignored this aspect. He also appointed persons with criminal history and insulted the Hindus, he alleged. X.com

KAKINADA: BJPs former state president Somu Veerraju has urged the state government to purge the present TTD governing body and appoint only Hindus who would protect the Sanathana Dharma.

The government should avoid situations of giving such board positions to persons having a criminal background.

Meanwhile, in protest against the appointment of "non-religious" persons and "criminals" in the TTD governing body, the BJP has taken up a signature campaign in all the assembly segments.

Speaking to the media at Rajamahendravaram on Monday, Veerraju said the appointment of non-religious people in Hindu religious committees was an insult to Hindus.

"The present TTD chairman Bhumana Karunakara Reddy had stated in his election affidavit that he was a Christian. Chief minister Jagan Reddy ignored this aspect. He also appointed persons with criminal history and insulted the Hindus," he alleged.

The BJP started the signature campaign in the Uma Ramalingeswara Swamy Devasthanam, the Uma Kotilingeshwara Swamy Devasthanam, the Uma Markandeya Swamy Devasthanam and other places on Monday. It would continue for three days till August 30.

Rajamahendravaram assembly segment convener Yenumula Rangarao, the party district general secretary Bura Ramachandra and others were present.
From Left to right: Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol, U.S. President Joe Biden and Japanese Prime Minister Kishida Fumio. (File Image: AFP)

The August 18 Camp David summit between US President Joe Biden, South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol and Japanese PM Fumio Kishida will have far reaching strategic impact on the Indo-Pacific as it ushers a new era of trilateral partnership between US and its two defence allies in Northeast Asia.

While both South Korea (ROK) and Japan have strong bilateral security ties with the US, the relations between Tokyo and Seoul have been uneasy due to lasting bitter memories among Koreans of the harsh Japanese occupation of the Korean peninsula in 1910-1945.

The US is working assiduously to bring its two main Western Pacific allies closer since the historic "pivot" to the Indo-Pacific by President Barak Obama in 2011.Also, chancelleries across the world were forced to reexamine long-held beliefs due to the onslaught of the economic impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, Chinas expansionism and Russias invasion of Ukraine.

Major are looking critically at emerging challenges and breaking out of the shackles of the past. In Asia, the reconciliation between Saudi Arabia and Iran and growing ties between the UAE and Israel are key examples.

Countries in the Indo-Pacific are also pushing back against the Chinese expansionism. New Philippines President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has been forthright in opposing Chinas illegal claims in the South China Sea and reversed the appeasement policy of his predecessor Rodrigo Duterte. The US has also reaffirmed its security alliance with Manila.

The August 18 joint statement "Spirit of Camp David" seeks to "enhance strategic coordination between the US-Japan and US-ROK alliances" and "brings (their) trilateral security cooperation to new heights". The three leaders are "resolute in (their) determination to uphold regional security, strengthen Indo-Pacific engagement and promote common prosperity".

The joint statement criticises the "dangerous and aggressive behaviour supporting unlawful maritime claims by China in the South China Sea" and the three countries declared that they "strongly oppose any unilateral attempts to change the status quo in Indo-Pacific waters". The joint statement thus widens the ambit of trilateral cooperation from Northeast Asia and the Korean peninsula to the entire Indo-Pacific, including the South China Sea and the Taiwan Strait as the statement "reaffirmed the importance of peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait".

In a blunt warning to North Korea, the US "unequivocally reaffirm(ed) that its extended nuclear deterrence commitments to both Japan and and ROK are ironclad and backed by the full range of US capabilities". It may be noted that analysts have questioned the long-term sustainability of this fundamental shift in the Korean attitude towards Japan as latent tensions over compensation to wartime Korean slave labour by Japanese companies and the so-called "comfort women" resurface violently from time to time. Despite close economic cooperation between Japan and South Korea after their 1965 "Treaty on Basic Relations", there is a palpable hostility for each other among the people of the two countries. President Yoon boldly embarked on a new course of close understanding with Japan and had summit meetings with Prime Minister Kishida in Tokyo in March 2023 and in Seoul in May 2023.

There is vocal public concern among South Koreans about the release of contaminated water from the Fukushima nuclear plant in the Pacific Ocean, which the Yoon administration is finding difficult to assuage.

President Yoon Suk Yeol had won the March 2022 presidential election with a very narrow margin over his Democratic Party rival and has rather low approval ratings of around 30 per cent. In the ROK, the polity is almost evenly divided between rightists leaning towards the US, against any accommodation towards North Korea, and left-of-centre liberals more forgiving of North Korean transgressions and seeking a middle strategic space between the US, their main security partner, and China, the main economic partner. Through fair and open elections, political power keeps alternating between these two ideological opposites.

To prevent any backsliding by a future administration in any of the three countries, the Camp David joint statement commits the partners to "hold trilateral meetings between (our) leaders, foreign ministers, defence ministers and national security advisers at least annually".

Chinas reaction to this emerging trilateral alliance will be watched with considerable interest. In 2016, after the then-rightist Park Geun Hye administration permitted installation of THAAD anti-missile batteries in Korea, China had reacted angrily, curtailing tourism, threatening Korean businesses operating in China and harassing Korean giants like LOTTE group and Hyundai Motors.

After coming to power in 2017, the left-leaning President Moon Jae-in had adopted a policy of "3Nos" assuring China that Seoul will not add new THAAD missile batteries, not participate in a US missile defence network and not join any trilateral military alliance with the US and Japan. President Yoon appears to be on a course upending these assurances.

Chinas ambassador in Seoul has adopted a "wolf warrior" stance and has publicly warned the Yoon administration against making the "wrong judgment" on US-China competition.

China will be worried about the continuing hawkish stance of Japanese foreign policy even after the demise of former PM Shinzo Abe. US bases in Japan and Korea may come into play in case of any misadventure by China across the Taiwan Straits.

The Camp David trilateral summit is a concrete move for strategic rebalancing in the Indo-Pacific triggered by Chinese expansionism. With other developments like the growing evolution of the Quad, bringing India closer to the US, Japan and Australia; the AUKUS between the US, UK and Australia; and assertion of sovereignty by the Philippines, the democracies of the region are sending a signal to China to reverse its policy of forcing unilateral changes on the ground around its periphery, and thus putting the peace, stability and prosperity of the region in peril.
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The recent introduction of the iconic Moto Razr series of smartphones marks a significant resurgence for Motorola in the realm of ultra-premium mobile devices. These phones not only carry forward the legacy of the Moto Razr but also showcase pioneering technological advancements, many of which are industry firsts. Our conversation with Mr. Shivam Ranjan, (Head of Marketing, Asia-Pacific, Motorola), provided us with deeper insights into Motorola's forthcoming endeavors, particularly within the context of the Indian market. Motorola is placing a substantial emphasis on the foundational spirit of innovation that defines the brand. This encompasses various aspects, including hardware, design, and software integration. The pipeline is brimming with exciting developments as Motorola ambitiously aims for a spot among the top three contenders in India's smartphone market.

Q) Is Motorola ready to flip the script when it comes to the Indian market? Motorola Global President, Sergio Buniac did hint about aiming to be amongst the top 3 players in India. How does Motorola plan to achieve that given the cut-throat competition and price war in the Indian market?

As mentioned by our global president, Motorola aims to be in the top 3 smartphone brands globally, which makes it imperative for us to aim for the top 3 spot in India as well, given that India is the worlds 2nd largest smartphone market. We believe that Motorola is uniquely poised to witness growth due to our focus on meaningful innovations such as 5G, a premium portfolio leading with design and innovation beyond hardware and our unique software experiences. We were one of the fastest-growing Android brands in India, showcasing a phenomenal 56% premium to market growth in Q1 of CY 2023. Our aim is to continue the momentum to drive exponential growth in India across all consumer segments and continue to drive high double-digit Premium to Market growth over the next 3 years.

Also read: Motorola Razr 40 Ultra Review: Doing the outer display right

This will be driven by multiple initiatives that we are undertaking to create differentiation in the market. First, we would like to leverage the premiumization trend in the Indian market to drive hypergrowth for our premium smartphone portfolio led by Edge and Razr franchises. We are not only leaders in form factors such as foldable but are also differentiating our premium portfolio through premium colors, materials, and design options that are emerging through our global partnership with Pantone  a global leader in colours and fashion trends. All this, while ensuring that our devices come with the latest and the greatest when it comes to hardware with leading specifications such as the highest refresh rate curved displays, latest processors, fastest charging, and best-in-class cameras.

Second, 5G is a key segment for us as the penetration of 5G devices is growing rapidly in the Indian market. Motorola has been recognized as Indias best 5G smartphone brand in 2023, which further reinforces our commitment to providing consumers with the best smartphone experience across price points. By having top-of-the-line 5G products across price points we are ensuring that we are bringing the best of 5G in terms of connectivity as well as hardware and software features to deliver the most advanced 5G experience to more consumers in India than ever.

Another area where we are able to differentiate ourselves from the competition is through our software experiences. ThinkShield for mobile and Moto Secure are unique to Motorola and provide business-grade security to consumers across most of our smartphone range. Additional software features include Ready For, Family Spaces, and Moto gestures that power multi-device experiences, and unique ways of smartphone interaction that open up a variety of use cases for the individual user and the family.

Furthermore, we are committed to the Govt of Indias Make in India initiative. Motorola already manufactures 100% of the devices in India and is even exporting out of India to multiple countries including North America. Domestic manufacturing also gives us the capability to have a faster time to market and design products specifically addressing the needs of the Indian consumer. Finally, we are increasing our investments in marketing to create more touchpoints for the consumers and expanding our footprint across online, retail, D2C, and O2O channels.

Q) How big a role will the launch of Moto Razr 40 and 40 Ultra play in building the "premium" and cutting-edge image of Motorola in India? Also, how has the response been to the Moto Razr series so far in India? Can we expect a folding Moto in the near future?

Razr holds an iconic status, the Razr V3 achieved unparalleled success as the highest-selling phone of all time, boasting a remarkable sales figure exceeding 100 million units. Similarly, our recent launches, the Motorola Razr40 and the Razr40 ultra are iconic devices that provide a smartphone experience at the intersection of style-driven self-expression and cutting-edge technology. The response to both the devices has been exceptional owing to its distinctive features like the Motorola razr40 ultras 3.6 external display, which is the worlds largest, fastest, and highest-resolution resolution on any flip phone with a refresh rate of 144Hz. Additionally, redesigned teardrop hinge makes both the Razr phones one of the worlds slimmest and gapless foldable smartphones when folded.

Also read: Motorola Edge 40 Review: An impressive mid-range phone with undeniable panache

Motorola razr40 Ultra has been the highest-selling smartphone during the Amazon Prime Days Sale in 2023 in its price segment and the razr40 series emerged as the biggest-ever flip phone launch on Amazon, with Motorola Razr40 and Razr40 Ultra together achieving the highest number of sales for a flip phone during Amazon Prime Days Sale 2023. The Flip phones have also been generating impressive sales across avenues such as D2C and retail.

While we cant comment on our future portfolio, we are already leaders in the foldable ecosystem through our Razr family of devices and are committed to investing in the technology.

Q) Staying on the Moto Razr series, the biggest concern over flip/fold phones has been the longevity of the folding display and the hinge mechanism. Has Motorola done anything special to ensure the flip mechanism and the flexible OLED display stand the test of time?

Motorola has introduced a redesigned teardrop hinge with this new razr40 family of phones, featuring the industrys first dual-axis tracking that minimizes the size of the system. Compared to other foldable in the market, the razr40 ultra is the thinnest when flipped closed. Moreover, the integration of this hinge system with Ultra Thin Glass makes the foldable nearly creaseless when the display unfolds, resulting in a seamless look and smooth tactile experience. These razr phones underwent rigorous cycle endurance testing, including flip testing. So together with this redesigned teardrop hinge and advanced Ultra-Thin Glass, razr40 phones are built to withstand 400,000 folds  twice more than the previous generation.

Q) Motorola is known for innovations on the design front, we have seen some interesting innovations in the past with the Moto Mods and the Moto Z and Moto X line-up of phones which were raved about for their design innovations. Can we expect Motorola to bring that magic back?

Motorola aims to enrich peoples lives through meaningful innovations. We pioneered the mobile communications industry in 1973 and have been responsible for innovating some of the most iconic, stylish devices of all time. Our pioneering spirit and commitment to finding new ways to solve consumer problems continue to inspire us, as we focus on meaningful innovation to create differentiation. Motorola and Pantone are in an exciting partnership to bring revolutionary devices in colors that tell each person's unique story. Through this partnership, we produced the world's first phone in Pantone's Color of the Year 2023- Viva Magenta, the Motorola Edge 30 Fusion. In our globally exclusive partnership with Pantone in the smartphone category, we have seen how technology and color can intertwine to provide a vessel of expression, fostering creativity and unlocking immersive experiences along the way. We are co-creating colors with Pantone across multiple devices, not just in the premium segment, but extending into mass segments as well. We are also experimenting with materials and finishes, such as the premium vegan leather designs of our phones.

With most of our launches, we bring in disruptive features that consumers need at competitive prices. Markedly, we are the industrys first to launch the flip form factor with the Razr series. This is a family of devices that spans over four generations, and Motorola plans to continue investing in it. We also introduced the world's thinnest 5G smartphone and the worlds thinnest IP68-rated 5G smartphone, with the launch of the Motorola Edge 40. Notably, the world's first 5G call was also made via a Motorola phone. Additionally, at the Lenovo Tech World'22, Motorola introduced a new rollable smartphone concept. We are investing in flexible OLED, or pOLED, screens to deliver an optimal balance of content and comfort. The Rollable concept embodies this idea with a screen that adjusts to three distinct states: extended, compact, and peek, with a simple press of a button. So the answer is a vehement yes. When it comes to design, form factors, and innovations in the Smartphone category, Motorola will continue to create magic.

Q) Besides competitive pricing and the latest specs, how is Motorola making phones that appeal to a certain kind of audience? Will Motorola have a series dedicated to gamers (the fastest-growing segment within phones)? Or can we expect Motorola models aimed specifically at photography enthusiasts? Especially in the current Indian market scenario where it's no longer about "one-size-fits-all" or making that perfectly balanced phone that appeals to everyone?

Motorola is dedicated to creating purposeful innovations that revolutionize the way people discover, share, and connect. Having over 90 years of developing mobile communications products, Motorola has marked its stance as a trusted brand in the industry. Motorola led the communications revolution by introducing the world's first commercial handheld cellular phone. We are at the forefront of innovation, setting new trends and introducing cutting-edge technology to the market. From budget-friendly options to premium smartphones, our product portfolio includes a range of phones suitable for different lifestyles, age groups, and technological requirements. We have distinguished ourselves by offering a diverse array of phones tailored to cater to various preferences and needs. All Motorola smartphones are backed by strong technology at a competitive price point.

The Motorola Razr and Edge series represents our premium phones, carefully crafted to ensure an immersive experience for all. The Razr pioneers disruptive form factors while our edge series displays expert craftmanship and defines whats next.

The moto g and moto e series were introduced with the aim of making premium features more accessible, offering them at an affordable price point. Our g series ensures well-rounded phones while the e series helps in democratizing technology at accessible price points.

Our smartphones incorporate a variety of features, including diverse camera capabilities, battery life, screen sizes, and functionalities. This ensures that there is a suitable device for everyone, regardless of their technological expertise or specific usage patterns.

Q) What unique offerings does Motorola have on the software side besides the near-stock Android experience? Also, what is the Android OS update commitment (in years) that Motorola offers with its phones?

Our software experiences are an important lever that enables meaningful experiences for consumers while allowing us to stand out from the competition. With features such as ThinkShield for mobile, Moto Secure, Ready For, and Family spaces, we offer business-grade security, multi-device connectivity, and home experiences that enable experiences that create value for consumers and differentiation beyond hardware. Moto Secure is a go-to destination for security and privacy. Manage connections, control permissions, and even create a secret folder for the most sensitive data. Thinkshield for Mobile protects data from malware, phishing, and other threats. The multi-layered business-grade security enhances protection at every level from the factory to the phone. Family Space creates a safe space on the phone where kids can learn and play. Motorola smartphones let users set limits on screen time, control access to apps, and create multiple profiles, so everyone is free to explore on their own. Make the most of the smartphone and desktop PC with Ready For.

Whether sharing files between devices or using the high-res camera on the phone as a webcam, more can be done together. With the iconic Moto gestures, simple actions make everyday interactions easier. Whether its unlocking the phone with just a lift, chopping down twice to turn on the flashlight, or taking a screenshot with a touch, one can use their favorite features in a way thats natural and intuitive. We believe that software is an extremely important part of creating differentiation and we strongly focused on it. With respect to Android updateswe have different OS & Security update policies for different franchises. We currently offer up to 4 years of OS updates on our devices.

Q) With most smartphone brands getting into wireless earbuds/headphones and wearable segments, can we expect Motorola to also target these fast-growing segments?

We have multiple offerings in certain regions in this space, and you can view many of them on our site. We also recently announced our partnership with Bose. With a shared commitment to innovation, we have joined forces to deliver an unmatched experience for mobile communication and immersive audio on the go. Our partnership will elevate the listening experiences for our customers, harnessing Bose's expertise in sound and noise cancellation. Additionally, it will provide users with an audio experience that seamlessly blends innovative sound with style. These cutting-edge products are currently available only globally.

Q) Can you tell us about the Motorola 312 labs and the upcoming camera labs in Bangalore?

Motorola announced the creation of 321 Labs in 2021, which is a testimony of the brands relentless pursuit of investing in advanced technology and innovation. Motorola 312 Labs is not just a physical lab, it constitutes our internal global teams dedicated to future-focused innovation. Comprising global research, design, and engineering experts focused on first-of-its-kind product development, Motorola 312 Labs mission is to solve consumer pain points by exploring the unknown and turning conceptual ideas into a reality. Motorolas innovation has deep roots in Chicago, IL, being headquartered in the city since its founding. And while the name 312 was chosen as its one of Chicagos most well-known telephone area codes, the Motorola 312 Labs team is comprised of employees based across the globe including India, the United States, Brazil, and more. Motorola has consistently delivered incredible innovations to the market, such as shatterproof screens, moto mods, the foldable Razr, Razr, enterprise AR solutions, and the 5G XR neckband. And many of the experts responsible for these meaningful innovations play a critical role in the work Motorola 312 Labs does today.

India is an extremely diverse market when it comes to skin tones and consumer preferences around camera performance. Hence to cater to the imaging needs of Indian consumers, we have created dedicated camera labs in India that try to optimize our software to perform best in Indian conditions and appeal to the wide preferences of Indian consumers. This shows our commitment to providing the most seamless consumer experiences for Indian consumers with Motorola Smartphones
HIGHLIGHTS The new Innova Hycross protoype will make use of Ethanol, which is the cleaner alternative to gasoline

A flex-fuel vehicle can run on any blends of Ethanol that are higher than 20 percent

Apart from being more eco-friendly than gasoline, Ethanol also has a higher octane rating for enhanced engine performance

Toyota has unveiled the worlds first BS-VI (Stage-II) electrified flex-fuel prototype vehicle. The prototype car, based on the popular Toyota Innova Hycross, is the first vehicle that combines flex-fuel technology with electric mobility. The new car, based on the Innova Hycross, is the first vehicle to come with flex fuel self charging strong hybrid (FFV-SHEV) technology. This means that apart from being a flex-fuel powered car, it will also use an electric powertrain to support the engine, offering better fuel efficiency while reducing the carbon footprint.

The new Innova Hycross protoype will make use of Ethanol, which is the cleaner alternative to gasoline, since it is a biofuel made from sugar and food grains. The Innova Hycross FFV will also run on a flex-fuel engine, which will run on a mix of Ethanol and Gasoline. Currently, India has achieved an Ethanol blend of 11 percent. A flex-fuel vehicle can run on any blends of Ethanol that are higher than 20 percent. During the launch, Union Minister of Road Transport and Highway, Nitin Gadkari, along with Union Ministers Hardeep Singh Puri and Mahendra Nath Pandey, said that India will be able to locally manufacture 20 percent ethanol blend in the next two year by 2025.

Now, apart from being a more eco-friendly alternative to gasoline, Ethanol also has a higher octane rating, which enhances the engine performance. However, since it also has a lower energy content, it means that ethanol isnt as efficient as gasoline. This is where the electric powertrain on the Innova Hycross BS-VI (Stage II) steps in, offering not only a more eco-friendly alternative to internal combustion engines, but also a more efficient alternative.

Since it is a hybrid and not a proper EV, it will also make use of minimal batteries, which means that the company will not have to pay the high import duties on the vehicle. The government aims to shift from internal combustion engines towards electrified FFVs, enabling a new manufacturing base for electric vehicles.

WHAT IS A FLEX FUEL VEHICLE (FFV)?

Flex Fuel cars are those that can run on different blends of fuel, the most common one being the ethanol-gasoline blend. Flex fuel vehicles can run on both Ethanol and Gasoline, or a blend of the two. As mentioned above, FFVs can run on any ethanol-gasoline blend that goes beyond 20 percent, meaning that there is 20 percent ethanol and 80 percent gasoline. The most common ethanol blend right now is E85, which contains 85 percent ethanol and 15 percent gasoline.

FFVs can, however, run on regular gasoline or any ethnol-gasoline blend beyond 20 percent. FFVs usually have a sensor that can detect the ethanol content in the fuel that is being used. This allows the engines computer to adjust various parameters like fuel injection and ignition timing to optimise performance for the specific blend of fuel in the tank.

HOW IS NEW TOYOTA INNOVA HYCROSS FFV PROTOTYPE DIFFERENT?

When compared to regular FFVs, the new prototype from Toyota is different since it also has an electric powertrain that will support the FFV engine. This will help cushion the lack of efficiency that ethanol blends are usually known for, as well as giving people the option of running the car on purely electric.

The prototype from Toyota comes with FFV-SHEV technology, which stands for Flex Fuel Self Charging Strong Hybrid Technology. The Toyota Innova Hycross BS VI (Stage-II) Electrified FFV will also keep charging its battery when the car is moving, in order to offer the best efficiency with the smallest carbon footprint.
HIGHLIGHTS The JioBharat 4G phone has been launched by Telecom company Jio in India

The device has been developed in partnership with Karbonn

The JioBharat 4G feature phone is priced at 999 and is now available on Amazon

Telecom company Jio has launched a 4G feature phone for the masses dubbed the JioBharat 4G phone. The phone is now available on Amazon India for purchase at just 999. Given the affordable pricing, Jios aim is to roll out 4G phones with faster internet speeds across India; particularly those who are still stuck with 2G phones with abysmal internet speeds. It aims to attract the 250 million feature phone user market in India that use phones with slow/no internet connectivity.

Also read: Jio AirFiber, Jio Giga factory, Jio Bharat 5G phone: 3 interesting reveals from Reliance AGM 2023

The JioBharat 4G phone is available in collaboration with Karbonn, a popular Indian mobile phone OEM of the yesteryears. The device comes with both Karbonn and Bharat branding as well. Jio has also launched some affordable internet plans with this device starting at just 123. The phone is available in two named variants  JioBharat V2 and JioBharat K1 Karbonn  although they seem to be the same phones. So, lets talk more about the JioBharat 4G phone.

JioBharat 4G specifications and features

The JioBharat 4G phone has pretty basic specifications as one would expect from a feature phone. You get a 1.77-inch TFT display, a 0.3 MP camera with LED flash, a 1,000 mAh battery, and a 3.5 mm audio jack. The 1,000 mAh battery should be capable enough to last most users a whole day on a single charge, given the basic apps on the phone.

The phone also supports memory expansion via microSD card up to 128 GB. This is a brilliant feature to have at this price because it means users can store extra songs, pictures, and contacts should they fill up the built-in storage.

The phone is available in Ash Blue and Solo Black colour variants, according to the Jio website. It supports a total of 23 local languages, ensuring that most language preferences of users in India are catered to. Users also have the ability to easily send and receive payments using JioPay. Do note that the phone will only work with Jio SIM cards. You will also get a few preloaded Jio apps such as JioMusic, JioPay, JioCinema, and JioTV.

JioBharat 4G internet plans, price, and availability

Jio has launched some inexpensive internet plans to go along with the launch of the new JioBharat 4G phone. The plans start at merely 123 for a 28-day time period and this plan offers unlimited calls, 14 GB of 4G internet, and access to movie and streaming on the phone via Jio apps.

Also read: Updates on JioBharat Phone, JioBook, and 5G expected to be unveiled at the Reliance Industries AGM  Heres all we know

Users can also opt for the yearly plan that is priced at 1,234, which effectively gets you a discount since the monthly price comes down to only 102. This plan comes with unlimited calls and 168 GB of data.

The JioBharat 4G phone is available to purchase starting today on Amazon India at 999. You get also get your hands on one in Reliance Digital stores.
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HIGHLIGHTS You will be able to purchase the Realme C51 in two colour options that are Blue and Black.

The smartphone will also feature a mini capsule on display.

The Realme C51 is expected to launch in India under 10,000.

Realme has confirmed the launch date of its upcoming entry level smartphone, the C51. It will launch on September 4. The company has also confirmed that the smartphone will come with 33-watt SUPERVOOC fast charging support. Along with that, this smartphone will feature an alleged mini capsule on display. This capsule is positioned on either side of the notch, offering access to details like data usage, step count, charging status, and notifications.

On the design front, the upcoming Realme C51 phone could feature flat edges and the sim card tray will be placed on the left side, while on the right side there will be volume rocker and power button. You will be able to purchase it in two colour options that are Blue and Black. The smartphone will come with a dual tone finish; glossy upper back with solid matte texture. Apart from that, there will be three camera rings on the back but the catch here is one of them consists of the LED flash.

Also read: Realme C55 Review: Fantastic battery life, performance could be better

Unfortunately, the company has not revealed any other details of the Realme C51 other than these, but the smartphone has been already rolled out in other regions such as, Taiwan, Cambodia and Indonesia. Lets check out what this other variant offers.

The global variant Realme C51 features a 6.7-inch LCD 120Hz display with HD+ resolution. It is powered by Unisoc T612 chipset and is packed with a 5000mAh battery with 33-fast charging support. It has a 50-megapixel dual camera setup and a 5-megapixel selfie shooter.

Also read: Realme C51 reportedly cheaper than Realme C53: Check leaked specs and features

The Realme C51 is expected to launch in India under 10,000, and is most likely to be available on Flipkart and Realmes official website. However it is also expected to launch at a cheaper price than its predecessor, Realme C53. The Realme C53 was launched in India at a price of 9,999.
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A woman has been charged with the murder of a man whose body was found in the water off Sliabh Liag.

Nikita Burns was hauled before a special sitting of Letterkenny District Court on Tuesday morning after being charged with the murder of Robert Wilkin.

Burns, a 21-year-old with an address at West End, Bundoran, appeared for a short hearing before Judge Ciaran Liddy.

Burns was arrested on Monday morning in Letterkenny and detained at Letterkenny Garda Station under Section 4 of the Criminal Justice Act, 1984. After questioning, detectives charged Burns with murder.

Detective Sergeant Mattie Murphy gave evidence of the arrest, charge and caution of Burns. Detective Sergeant Murphy told the court that he charged Burns at 10.21pm on Monday, August 28. After being cautioned, Burns told detectives: I didnt do it.

Burns, wearing a black jumper and white trousers, did not speak during the hearing at Letterkenny courthouse.

Burns was charged that on the 25th of June,2023 at a place unknown within the State, she did murder one Robert Wilkin (also known as Robin Wilkin). The charge is Contrary to Common Law and as provided for by Section 4 of the Criminal Justice Act 1964.

Mr Rory OBrien, solicitor for Burns, asked that, while on remand, Burns receive all necessary medical treatment including any psychiatric treatment that is relevant.

Legal aid was granted to Mr OBrien by Judge Liddy, who granted the request regarding medical treatment.



Solicitor Mr Rory O'Brien. (North West Newspix)

Garda Superintendent Karen Duffy asked that Burns be remanded in custody to appear via video link before Letterkenny District Court on Monday, September 4.

The body of Mr Wilkin, aged in his 60s and originally from County Tyrone, was recovered from the water on July 3.

Previously, a man, Alan Vial, was also charged with the murder of Mr Wilkin. Vial, a 38-year-old of Drumanoo Head, Killybegs, was initially brought before Ballyshannon District Court on July 14.

Vial is in custody at Castlerea Prison and is due to appear in court again in September.

Vial and Burns were previously arrested on June 26 on suspicion of a serious assault. It followed information received by Gardai which led to a large-scale search off the popular tourist destination at Sliabh Liag.

Following an extensive search involving Gardai, the Irish Coastguard including Rescue 118 and the Donegal Mountain Rescue Team, a body was recovered in water off the cliffs on July 3.

The body was taken to Letterkenny University Hospital where a full post mortem was carried out by the State Pathologist's Office.

The findings of that post mortem have not been released for Garda operational reasons.

The case was adjourned to September 4, 2023.
Travel disruption could last for days after flights were cancelled leaving thousands of passengers stranded during a technical fault in the UKs air traffic control (ATC) system.

Transport Secretary Mark Harper said it was the worst incident of its kind in nearly a decade and announced an independent review will be carried out.

The issue started on Monday after ATC provider National Air Traffic Services (Nats) suffered what it described as a technical issue preventing it from automatically processing flight plans.

This resulted in the number of flights being restricted while the plans were checked manually, leading more than a quarter of flights at UK airports to be cancelled.

Nats said at 3.15pm on Monday the problem was resolved, but disruption continued into Tuesday as many aircraft and crews were out of position.

At Heathrow Airport on Tuesday, at least 32 departures and 31 arrivals were cancelled.

British Airways, which operates the most flights to and from the west London airport, was the worst affected airline.

There were at least 23 departures and 51 arrivals cancelled at Gatwick on Tuesday.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak told broadcasters: I know people will be enormously frustrated by the disruption thats impacting them.

Thankfully things like this are rare and the issue itself was fixed in a matter of hours, but the disruption obviously is continuing and will last for a little while longer.

The Transport Secretary is in constant dialogue with all the industry participants, he will be talking to airlines specifically later today and making sure that they support passengers to get home as quickly as possible.

Transport Secretary Mark Harper told GB News: This was a technical fault. We do not think this was a cybersecurity incident.

And what will happen now with an incident of this magnitude is there will be an independent review.

The Civil Aviation Authority will be putting together a report in the coming days, which obviously I will take a look at to see whether there are lessons to learn for the future, to see whether we can reduce the impact of this again.

Its nearly a decade since there was a significant issue like this.

We want to make sure it doesnt happen again, because of all the disruption thats been caused to passengers across the country.

An unprecedented ATC systems failure in December 2014 led to widespread disruption at airports.

In relation to the latest incident, Rob Bishton, interim chief executive at regulator the Civil Aviation Authority, said: As part of our regulatory oversight of its activities, we continue to engage with Nats, and once its investigation is fully complete an incident report will be provided to the UK Civil Aviation Authority.

The reports outcomes will then be shared with the Secretary of State for Transport.

Aviation analytics company Cirium said 790 departures and 785 arrivals were cancelled across all UK airports on Monday.

That was equivalent to around 27% of planned flights.

A message from our Operations Director about todays disruption. pic.twitter.com/C4LWX7VyM8  NATS (@NATS) August 28, 2023

Passengers stuck in the UK and abroad described their frustration, as some had no idea when or how they would get to their destination.

Katrina Harrison and her family  including one-year-old twin grandchildren  spent the night at Leeds Bradford Airport after their flight to Antalya, Turkey was cancelled on Monday afternoon.

Ms Harrison, from Stockton-on-Tees, told the PA news agency: There were no hotels to stay in, we couldnt get the car out of the car park.

We havent slept, we tried to sleep on the floor but couldnt. Luckily the children could sleep in the pram.

The holiday was supposed to be a family celebration of a few things. Weve spent 12,000 on it and weve been treated like muck.

Ryan and Kirsty Fawcett, from Selby in North Yorkshire, were at East Midlands Airport with their two-year-old twin sons for their first holiday as a family  and the couples first since 2019  to Antalya in Turkey.

Their flight on Monday afternoon was cancelled, and after staying in a hotel overnight, they were booked on another departure on Tuesday morning that was also axed.

Ms Fawcett said: What has annoyed us more is we have been told just sit and wait around, with the extra expense of hotels and things.

What if we didnt have money spare?

Aviation consultant John Strickland said providing ATC for flights is complicated.

He went on: Systems are meant to be robust. They are pressure tested and that does give a very high level of reliability.

But as weve seen in other parts of the industry, and undoubtedly in other industries too like the banking sector, there is a vulnerability in which relying on IT systems presents.

Passengers were urged by airlines to check before they leave for the airport as their flight times may have changed.
Dublin Airport has issued advice to people travelling for flights amidst delays and cancellations.

Passengers intending to fly today (August 29) are advised to check the status of their flight with their airline before travelling to the airport.

Travel disruptions and delays have occurred as a result of the Air Traffic Control (ATC) issues in the UK.

The issue reportedly started on Monday after ATC provider National Air Traffic Services (Nats) suffered what it described as a "technical issue" preventing it from automatically processing flight plans.

It resulted in a large number of cancelled and delayed flights to Ireland and the UK.

Update: Air Traffic Control issues in the UK today are resulting in delays and cancellations to some flights into and out of Dublin Airport. We advise all passengers due to travel today to check the status of their flight with their airline in advance of travelling. https://t.co/L73p4UoJ2K  Dublin Airport (@DublinAirport) August 28, 2023

It has since been described by UK Transport Minister, Mark Harper, as the worst incident of its kind in "nearly a decade".

According to Dublin Airport, any additional parking fees incurred as a result of the ATC delays will be waived.

Impacted passengers should speak with a member of staff on the ground or use the intercom facility when exiting their car park.

According to the Irish Times, hundreds of people spent the night sleeping in the airport as 20 further flights were cancelled today.

Passengers needing to re-book flights are encouraged to do so via their airlines app or website.
BBC Radio 3s Breakfast programme is coming to Carlingford Lough next week as Petroc Trelawny presents a week of live broadcasts, taking listeners on a lough-to-lough journey across Northern Ireland.

This year, Petroc explores five Northern Irish loughs and their surrounding areas, with live broadcasts from Carlingford Lough, Strangford Lough, Lough Neagh, Lough Erne, and Lough Foyle, travelling from the Irish Sea to the Atlantic Ocean.

Along the way, listeners will hear about the building of the RMS Titanic, the peculiar life cycle of eels regularly returning to Lough Neagh, and the literary links related to the town of Enniskillen, by Lough Erne, amongst other stories.

Live music by local musicians, and contributions from poets, naturalists and historians will help bring the journey to life, with a focus on the natural beauty and unique landscapes of the loughs.

BBC Radio 3 Breakfast Presenter Petroc Trelawny says:

Our Breakfast road trips have taken us to some of the most beautiful parts of these Islands and I am thrilled we will now reach Northern Ireland. I have had so many happy times visiting Ulster over the years and am thrilled to be able to share the magical vistas, natural history, rich stories and glorious music of the place with a wider audience.

Celebrating a week of live programmes from Northern Ireland, BBC Radio 3s drive time programme, In Tune will broadcast from the Great Hall at Ulster University in Derry on Friday 22 September. Presenting a programme with audience in attendance, Sean Rafferty will introduce performances by some of Northern Irelands finest musicians, including pianist Ruth McGinley and soprano Mary McCabe, amongst others.

Every afternoon, meanwhile, Radio 3 will showcase a range of performances by the Ulster Orchestra, with chamber music from the NI Opera Festival of Voice 2023 at Glenarm featuring on Lunchtime Concert.

BBC Radio 3 Controller Sam Jackson says:

Our week of live broadcasts from Northern Ireland demonstrates the unique ability of public service radio to celebrate the character and history of this very special part of the UK. We hope listeners in Ulster and across the whole country will join us as we discover more about the loughs, the culture and the music of the area.

All the programmes as part of BBC Radio 3 Breakfast from Northern Ireland, as well as In Tune from Ulster University and the Afternoon Concert and Lunchtime Concert series, will be available to listen to on BBC Sounds.

Previous BBC Radio 3 Breakfast road trips have seen the programme travel coast-to-coast across the Scottish Highlands, follow the Rivers Ure and Ouse to the Humber in Yorkshire, and journey along the River Severn from Wales into England and back. Breakfast has also come live from forests in Co. Down, Hampshire and Snowdonia.
The Family Addiction Support Network (FASN), the organisation that offers guidance, empathy, and assistance to families grappling with addiction across Cavan, Monaghan, Meath and Louth, says it "proudly" announces its support and enthusiasm for not two significant events set to take place on International Overdose Awareness Day (IOAD), this Thursday 31 August.

As the world comes together to remember those lost to overdose and acknowledge the grief of the families left behind, FASN says it applauds the decision to illuminate the Cavan Courthouse in purple and warmly embraces the theme of this year's IOAD: "Recognising Those People Who Go Unseen."

The two events taking place this year on IOAD are, the illumination of the Cavan Courthouse in purple as a global symbol of unity, compassion, and remembrance; and the HSE National Social Inclusion Office's Live Webinar.

FASN says that the illumination of the Cavan Courthouse in a shade of purple on International Overdose Awareness Day holds a timely and poignant significance. It says that as communities across the Northeast grapple with a distressing increase in reported deaths due to drug use, coupled with a concerning rise in cocaine use, this symbolic gesture resonates deeply.

The courthouse bathed in purple serves as a solemn reminder of the lives lost to overdose and addiction within these very communities. This not only brings awareness to the urgent need for comprehensive support and prevention measures but also underscores the collective commitment to breaking the cycle of substance abuse and fostering empathy for those affected by its tragic consequences.

Along with the illumination of the Cavan Courthouse, the HSE National Social Inclusion Office is hosting a live webinar on Zoom. The webinar will feature an array of insightful speakers, including Daniel O'Callaghan, who will address the poignant topic of "Special Death": Living with Bereavement by Drug-Related Death in Ireland.

This virtual event provides a platform for sharing experiences, learning, and fostering empathy within the community. It takes place from 1.30pm to 3pm. Visit the FASN website for further details.

FASN says it wholeheartedly invites individuals from all walks of life to participate in both events. By joining them in illuminating the Cavan Courthouse and attending the live webinar, it says, participants contribute to raising awareness, breaking down stigma, and standing in solidarity with those who have been impacted by overdose and addiction.

It adds that no family is immune to the devastation of addiction and far too many suffer the heartbreak of losing loved ones to overdose. Addiction and overdose affect people of all races, religions, and socio-economic status.

FASN says that it hopes that these dual events "will serve as a beacon of love and support for families and friends, and a reminder to those fighting addiction and their family members, that you are not alone and that help is available."
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There was plenty of buzz around Lordship on Saturday morning as St Patricks GFC held their Road and Trail walk in aid of Irish Motor Neurone Disease Association.

People from all around the northeast turned out in their club colours to support the worthy cause.

The club are holding a number of fundraising events after ex-chairman and lifelong member of St. Patricks GFC, Padraic OConnor, who was also chairman of Louth GAA for 5 years from 2009 to 2014 was diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease.

The club thanked all those who turned out and helped make the day a success.

On behalf of Padraic OConnor's family and wider OConnor family wed like to take the opportunity to thank absolutely everyone for the great success yesterday was.

From the great turn out and support from friends, family, St Patricks GFC, neighbours, all the neighbouring clubs, anyone who travelled long distances to show your support on the first stage of our Irish Motor Neurone Disease Association fundraising efforts.

It was wonderful to have Padraic there to spend some time with us. We are truly humbled by all the support.

The second fundraising event is an ongoing draw for great prizes including Cold Play tickets. Tickets can be bought in any local shops. This draw will take place on the 12/10/23.

The third and final fundraising event will be an ONLINE draw for massive prizes, with first prize being a Cruise for two. All details to follow later in the year for this Online draw with tickets only being 10 or 3 for 20.

All amounts raised will be published on the IMNDA.ie website later in the year, meanwhile

Our IMNDA link remains active for another few months to allow anyone to make a donation. Should you wish to do so you can via the following link:

Our IMNDA link remains active for another few months to allow anyone to make a donation. Should you wish to do so you can via the following link: https://louthgaa.ie/st-patricks-gaa-club-irish-motor.../

Have a look and see how people have been supporting this great cause.
German automaker Volkswagen is solidifying its standing in the Chinese market by revving up its commitment to electrification and strengthening its cooperation with Chinese partners. "China is our largest single market worldwide and holds an unassailable and irreplaceable position in our global operations," Volkswagen Brand CEO Thomas Schaefer told a Thursday media conference. Volkswagen is increasing investments in e-mobility research and development, as well as design and production, to meet the needs of Chinese consumers, Schaefer said. From January to July of this year, the company delivered 1.26 million vehicles to the Chinese market. The sales of new energy vehicles reached 89,700 in the first half, up 4.8 percent year-on-year. "Despite intense market competition, we have achieved a solid sales result," said Stefan Mecha, Volkswagen Brand's China CEO, adding he anticipates a better performance in the pure electric sector. Later this year, Volkswagen will launch its new pure electric model ID.7 Vizzion, which debuted at the Shanghai auto show in April. Mecha said the launch will accelerate the company's electrification transformation in China. Another all-electric models will roll off the production line at Volkswagen Anhui, the group's first joint venture in China specializing in NEVs, during the first half of 2024. Volkswagen plans to introduce more NEV models over the next few years while enhancing collaboration with Chinese partners in R&D, production and supply chains to better respond to consumers and implement its "In China, for China" strategy, Mecha said. In late July, Volkswagen invested around $700 million to purchase a 4.99 percent stake in Chinese smart electric vehicle startup Xpeng. The two sides will work together to roll out two mid-sized NEVs in 2026, according to a joint statement. The models will bear the Volkswagen brand while utilizing Xpeng's technologies in software and autonomous driving. "Our teamwork with Xpeng will bring many benefits by expanding our product portfolio and helping us achieve breakthroughs in sales and technology," Schaefer said. Meanwhile, Volkswagen's collaboration with Horizon Robotics, with which it signed a 2.4 billion euros ($2.59 billion) deal last year, is progressing smoothly, said Mecha. The company is one of China's leading providers of software solutions for smart vehicles. "Volkswagen is about to celebrate its 40th anniversary of entry into China. We have joined hands with many Chinese partners throughout that 40-year journey, which is our key advantage," Schaefer said.


In advance of World Suicide Prevention Day this September, Pieta, Irelands national suicide prevention charity, is inviting businesses from across Louth to become a ray of hope for their communities and help tackle suicide by signing up to a new fundraising initiative Go Amber.

The campaign will kick off on World Suicide Prevention Day on 10 September and run until 10 October, coinciding with World Mental Health Day.

Go Amber marks the first ever fundraising campaign by Pieta around these important dates as the charity reflects on the difference made to over 70,000 lives since Pieta began in 2006. This year alone Pieta has already provided over 26,000 free therapy hours across the country.

Pieta says fundraising is essential to providing its services with donations covering over 85% of the cost of services. 1,200 funds comprehensive care for one person, so Pieta says it is calling on local businesses to get involved by participating in Go Amber to help to magnify the impact of their contributions and help Pieta continue their support to prevent suicide in Ireland.

Ways Businesses Can Support Go Amber:

Fundraise: Host fundraising events within your business, involving both staff and customers to contribute to the cause. Donate: Make a direct contribution to Pietas mission or organise drive days to collect funds from your employees, customers, or community. Consider pledging a percentage of your profits or donating proceeds from a specific product or service. Sign Up: Begin your Go Amber fundraising journey by visiting www.goamber.ie

Stephanie Manahan, Pieta CEO said, Our Go Amber Campaign aligns with World Suicide Prevention Day and World Mental Health Day. This year the theme for World Suicide Prevention day is Creating Hope Through Action and by rallying Irish SMEs and communities we are showcasing the remarkable impact the collective action can achieve.

"We invite businesses of all sizes to join us, engage in fundraising events, donate generously, and help spread awareness of Pietas crucial services by connecting with local communities and creating hope through action.

Participating businesses will receive a distinguished Go Amber decal, to display the affiliation with this impactful initiative. Alongside this, a Go Amber Certificate of Competition, symbolizing the participant's dedication to positive change, will be presented. Each participating business and community, depending on funds raised, will also be offered the opportunity to attend one of Pietas SIGNs talks hosted by a Pieta therapist.

For more information or to sign up visit www.goamber.ie
CAO Round 1 offers will be issued to applicants today, Wednesday, August the 30th, from 2pm.

Applicants will be able to check their offer(s) by logging into the My Applications section of www.cao.ie, using their CAO number, date of birth and account password. Offers will also be issued by email and SMS text. Applicants who are not receiving an offer will receive a Statement of Application email. The cut-off points for 2023 will also be published by CAO on their website once the offers are issued.

Many students will receive two offers, one from their level 8 list (Honours Bachelor Degrees) and one from level 7/6 (Ordinary Bachelor Degrees and Higher Certificates) and have the option to accept one offer only.

Students have the option to accept, decline or apply to defer the offer they receive before the acceptance deadline for Round 1, which is on September 5 at 3pm.

Further rounds of offers continue until all CAO places are filled.

Consider CAO offers carefully

Applicants should carefully consider the offer(s) they receive in Round 1, as they may not get another offer in later rounds. They will receive an offer of the highest course on their preference lists (Level 8 and Levels 7/6) for which they have the minimum requirements and the cut-off CAO points for 2023. This could be anywhere from 1-10 on their order of preference. Applicants will never receive an offer of a course that is lower down on their preference list.

It is possible (but not guaranteed) that some applicants may receive an offer of a course which is higher up on their preference list in subsequent rounds. This happens if the points for their chosen courses drop when not all those offered places in Round 1 take them up. It can also happen in Round 5 if a student who appeals a Leaving Cert result is successful, receives an upgrade and then meets the required points for a course which then had previously missed out on.

Round 2 offers will be available online from 2pm on September 11.

Students are entitled to be offered a place that becomes available higher up on their order of preference if they have the points and entry requirements.

Whether students have accepted a place on another course in Round 1 is irrelevant, they will be offered the new place anyway. Applicants then have the choice to accept their round 2 offer or to stick with the Round 1 offer.

The closing date for acceptance of Round 2 offers is September 13 at 3pm and the CAO will continue to offer places in the same way up to early October when the offer season for 2023 ends.

Applying to defer a college place

Students who wish to defer an offer must not accept the offer via the CAO. The offer of a deferral is completely at the discretion to the Admissions Office of the Higher Education Institution (HEI) in question. They are not guaranteed and are dealt with on a case by case basis.

Students who wish to apply to defer a course must check the deferral application process for the particular HEI and follow it.

Details on how to defer a course can be found on www.cao.ie, however all communications about deferrals must be sent to the relevant Admissions Office, not to CAO.

What to do if no CAO offer is received

Students who do not receive a CAO offer will get a Statement of Application email so the first thing to do is to check the detail of this and follow the instructions.

It may be the case that corrections need to be made to the examination, exemption or account information so the advice is to contact the CAO immediately via the Correspondence section of their CAO account. Students will also need to check they have met the minimum entry requirements and points required for the course in questions.

Details on minimum entry requirements can be found on the individual HEI websites and the cut-off points will be available on the CAO website. If after this the student doesnt get an offer, there is no need to panic as there are lots of options still open.

Second-chance Maths exam

Some HEIs offer students who have not received the required minimum grade in Maths for their chosen course, the opportunity to sit an alternative Maths exam.

These exams usually take place in the week after the Leaving Cert results are issued.

Details of the HEIs which run these exams can be found in the Important Dates section of the CAO website and information on specific dates, exam structure and links to apply are available on the individual HEI websites.

Available Places on CAO

The Available Places facility opens on CAO on August 31 at 12pm and applications are open to applicants who are already in the CAO system and to candidates who have not already submitted a CAO application this year but who now wish to apply. Applicants must meet the minimum entry requirements for the courses for which they wish to apply. Further details can be found on www.cao.ie

Options outside of CAO

While much attention focuses on CAO around the Offer stages it is very important for students to realise that there are lots of options outside of CAO which are still open for application.

This include Post Leaving Cert (PLC) courses in Further Education (www.fetchcourses.ie), apprenticeships (www.apprenticeship.ie), traineeships (www.solas.ie), tertiary education programmes (www.nto.hea.ie) and supported education and training programmes offered by the National Learning Network (www.rehab.ie/national-learning-network).

Opportunities to study abroad for 2023 are also still an option. Students can apply to study in the UK through UCAS Clearing which remains open until October 17. For opportunities to study through English in European universities for the coming academic year see www.eunicas.ie and www.medicalpoland.ie.

Many students opt to take a year out and work before taking the next step and of course there is the option to repeat the Leaving Cert for those who feel they can perform better second time around.

Helpline

The National Parents Council Post Primary (NPCPP) will also be running their annual helpline for students, parents and guardians, which is supported by qualified guidance counsellors from Friday, August 25 to Saturday, September 2nd. Contact the Freephone number on 1800 265 165 with your queries.

Above all else Leaving Cert students need to remember that their opportunities are endless, their options are varied and their potential is boundless. There is not just one linear pathway for everyone but multiple routes and possibilities.

Niamh Dwyer is a Guidance Counsellor in Scoil Phobail Sliabh Luachra, Rathmore, and member of the Kerry Branch of Guidance Counsellors. She is also a Careers Advisor - For details see www.mycareerplan.ie or follow @mycareerplan on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter.
SIX Cork areas were labelled littered in the latest annual survey of coasts and inland waterways by business group, Irish Business Against Litter (IBAL).

The coastal litter survey reported that Ballinacurra, Bantry Harbour, Castletownbere Harbour, Cork Harbour at Blackrock Castle, Kinsale Harbour and White Bay Beach were all found to be littered.

The report found that Blackrock Castle (Cork Harbour), a blackspot in previous IBAL surveys, improved to littered, as did White Bay.

No Cork area featured in the moderately littered or clean to European norms categories.

The national study of 33 areas nationwide by An Taisce in June and July comprised waterfronts and immediate environs.

No area nationwide was deemed a litter blackspot but the report found that the majority of beaches nationwide are falling short of clean status and coastal areas to be more littered than towns.

Fianna Fail councillor Terry Shannon called on people to take more responsibility when they are availing of the resources in Blackrock.

It is welcome there is an improvement," he said. "We would call on people if they are going to the beach, going on the amenity walk or visiting Blackrock Castle to take their rubbish home with them. People have a responsibility to mind the place. The city council are doing huge work with putting in amenity walks, open spaces, and the gym by Blackrock Castle, he added.

There is a very active clean up group in Blackrock who do amazing work. People should be supportive of these volunteers and always remember to take their rubbish home with them."

Fianna Fail councillor Ann Marie Ahern said everyone needs to club together to ensure White Bay Beach is kept as clean as possible.

It is good it is improving as it is a great area and so popular with locals and tourists alike," she stated. "Continuous monitoring and improvement will have to be kept going in the area. I hope this will be supported by Cork County Council. Everyone needs to club together, and we will all benefit from the beach.

Report's Findings

An Taisce's report for Ballinacurra stated that there was a very obvious and heavy litter presence, most notably at the water's edge. It also found that there was no obvious dog fouling, and that the pier itself was litter free.

The report for Bantry Harbour found there was a very definite litter presence at the recycle facility. It also stated that the litter bins at the square were full and overflowing.

The report for Castletownbere stated there was a slip when it came to litter levels compared to the summer of 2022, and indicated that the litter was not just confined to the water. On the plus side, it found that the litter bins were freshly presented.

The report for Blackrock Castle stated they had seen a notable improvement in the overall presentation and maintenance of the waterside environment. It praised the very clear signage relating to Amenity Walkway Clean Up. The report found that the most obvious litter items were fastfood, cigarette butts and dog-fouling.

The report for Kinsale, meanwhile, stated that some litter bins were overflowing and the contents were strewn on the ground by birds. The report praised the built environment, which was freshly presented.

The report for White Bay found there had been an improvement in litter levels compared to 2022. They stated however, that it remains a mixed site in terms of litter - there were some very clean areas and some heavily littered areas.
Cork Airport has today advised passengers to check the status of their flight with their airline before they travel to the airport.

It comes as Britains air traffic control agency was yesterday hit by a technical problem for several hours, causing widespread disruption to flights across Ireland and Europe.

In a statement this morning Cork Airport said passengers should continue to check with their airline before making their way to the airport.

As a result of issues with UK air traffic control yesterday, passengers intending on travelling today (Tuesday) are advised to check the status of their flight with their airline before they travel to the airport, Cork Airport said.

The fault at air traffic control in the UK has now been fixed, however the knock-on effect to flights right across Europe and beyond is likely to continue for a number of days.
A lecturer from Munster Technological University (MTU) has published a new book on green energy systems needed to power the AI revolution.

The past year has demonstrated the tremendous power and potential of machine learning, especially artificial intelligence programs such as Chat GPT.

Machine learning requires huge energy resources, which makes a new book, co-edited by the MTU Department of Computer Science lecturer, a timely publication.

Dr Mubashir Husain Rehmani's new book, titled Green Machine: Learning Protocols for Future Communication Networks delves into the world of machine learning for sustainable communication networks.

In his research, Dr Rehmani, a recipient of Science Foundation Ireland CONNECT Centres Education and Public Engagement (EPE) Award in 2022, focuses on wireless networks, blockchain, cognitive radio networks, smart grids, and software-defined networks in his research.

Dr Rehmani paid tribute to his family for their support over the past three years of researching and writing Green Machine.

It was almost three years ago when I was discussing the idea of this book with my friend and colleague Dr Saim Ghafoor of Atlantic Technological University, and now, this book is finally published and out in the world, he said.

I am incredibly thankful to my wife and my kids Saad, Maria, and Aamir.

Without their support and sacrifice, I could not have imagined the spare time for this book.

Green Machine is edited by Dr Saim Ghafoor of Atlantic Technological University and Dr Rehmani, and is published by Taylor Francis.

The book explores cellular, federated, and Beyond Fifth Generation networks, cloud-based communication, and IoT, aiming to reduce energy consumption and carbon footprint.

Dr Rehmani received his PhD in computer science from the Pierre and Marie Curie University, Paris, in 2011, and has subsequently received Highly Cited Researcher awards from Clarivate in 2020, 2021, and 2022.

Dr Rehmanis work focuses on wireless networks, blockchain, cognitive radio networks, smart grid, and software-defined networks.
IN 1972, Fr Wrenne, a priest in the Gurranabraher parish, asked the Daughters of Charity, who were in the local hospital  the North Infirmary  if they would open a pre-school in the parish.

Sr Genevieve Nolan, a Montessori teacher, opened the pre-school in the Parochial Hall in September 1972, and in September 1974 they moved to the purpose-built pre-school. Cork Corporation provided the site and the Southern Health Board agreed to give a yearly grant towards the running of the pre-school.

The funds to build came from fundraising and from money that was left in the will of JJ Walsh of Bandon, who had been a minister in the first inter-party government. The money had been intended to be spent on a memorial to those who died in the War of Independence, but Fr Wrenne knew the family and a decision was made that the money would be well spent on the pre-school, which was originally named the JJ Walsh Memorial School.

Sr Genevieve and two other Montessori taught three sessions in the morning and two in the afternoon. In 1978, Sr Genevieve went back to Dublin and Sr Marian Taggart replaced her, and by 1984 there were 120 pre-school children attending daily.

In 1984, Sr Marian was transferred to Dublin, and the Daughters of Charity did not have a sister to replace her. Three Presentation sisters had moved into Gurranabraher parish in 1982 and they were asked to provide a sister to work with the parents.

I was appointed as co-ordinator of the centre in 1984, and a third Montessori teacher was employed for the pre-school. As fundraising was important, I asked for volunteers to make soft toys at the parents meeting, and a group of about 20 volunteered.

Every Tuesday morning they met in the staff room and made the toys which were then sold for fundraising. During these sessions, which were great fun, all sorts of topics were discussed.

Cork Labour Party rep slams ministers poorly timed and worded statement on childcare closures https://t.co/9TIPO4jjkl  EchoLive.ie (@echolivecork) August 28, 2023

Some of the mothers were finding difficulty helping their children with maths and Irish, so a class was started for parents in maths and Irish. Later, other classes followed, such as aerobics, cookery and confidence-building, all in response to needs expressed by the group. This was the 1980s, when there was very high unemployment locally and very few women worked outside the home.

Various classes continued but it became obvious that rooms for parents were needed and a creche was needed for the children under three who came with the parents. In 1987, plans were drawn up for an extension and the centre began to apply for grants.

GRANTS

Luckily, People in Need and the National Lottery began at this time, and some grants were obtained over the next two years. The extension cost IR72,000 and was built by Kilmoney Construction. Eugene OConnor, who was the Southern Health Board community worker at the time, was very helpful. Grants were received through the SHB and from a fund that was raised to keep the North Infirmary open. When it closed, the money was dispersed to local causes and the centre received IR15,000. The Presentation Sisters gave an interest-free loan, which helped to pay bills, and was paid back as the grants came.

With the extra room, courses for adults expanded in the morning and also at night. Parents with children under three could now come as there was a creche. Courses, including womens health issues, yoga, dance, upholstery, flower arranging, and art, were available. Besides what people learned, the social support and friendships built up over the years were an important aspect of the sessions.

University College Cork offered a two-year social studies course in a community setting, and in 1992 a group of 22 got their diplomas, which was a huge achievement as most had only spent a year or two at second level.

In 1992, the centre was asked to start an under-three unit, where parents and children would come together.

In 1997, an afterschool club was started in conjunction with the local primary school. This came about because we had learned there were children who finished school at 1pm and were asking to let them come back to school in the afternoon.

Since then, the homework club provides space and help with homework, as well as play time and crafts, for around 50 children daily. It also provides summer camp for four weeks in July.

The Presentation Sisters Ministry fund gives financial support to the afterschool club, and I work as a volunteer in the club since I retired as co-ordinator in 2006.

FAS CE schemes provided some extra staff  many of whom trained in childcare and five of whom joined the permanent staff. Others who did the childcare training found work in other childcare facilities.

The centre was able to facilitate counselling for local people who needed it over the years, and a listening ear was always available.

Above all, the Before 5 Centre has been a facility well-used by the community since 1975 and has grown and developed in response to community needs.

EUROPEAN FUNDING

European funding came on stream in 2000 and the centre applied for, and was granted, funding for a childcare co-ordinator and three childcare workers. This meant that we now had extra permanent staff as assistants in the classrooms and in the afterschool club.

In 2001, parents began looking for creche facilities because many had taken up part- or full-time work. The creche, built in 1987, only catered for children of parents in the adult classes.

Again, the EU provided capital funding, so plans were drawn up for a larger creche, which was opened in September 2005.

The centre has continued to respond to the needs of the community. The outdoor area has been developed and children can now be outdoors, even in wet weather.

Play therapy is available as an integral part of the centre since 2019, a service offered not only to children already in the centre but to any child who needs it in the local area. Up to 30 children have availed of this service in the past year.

In 2024, the Before 5 Centre hopes to celebrate 50 years of service to the Churchfield and Gurranabraher community.
PLANS for 1,325 apartments in the citys docklands have been welcomed by the CEO of Cork Chamber.

Conor Healy, Cork Chamber CEO reacted to news that planning permission has been granted for the development.

A development of this scale is exactly what the city needs as it continues to grow sustainably, he said.

It will be key in attracting and maintaining a highly skilled and diverse workforce. Demand for housing continues to outstrip supply in the city, and in order to continue growing our economy Cork must be considered an attractive place to live and work with large-scale developments of this size which are of mixed tenure in nature. It is hoped that the OCallaghan Properties construction project will help meet demand amid anticipated growth of the city in the coming decades.

It is a project that directly aligns with the positivity that we are seeing from our members, but this momentum must be a foundation for future development and the Governments Housing For All Strategy must deliver, removing any barriers that exist to future developments, Mr Healy added.

Leeside Quays Limited, a subsidiary of OCallaghan Properties (OCP), have been granted 10-year planning permission to develop 1,325 residential units, including apartments and duplexes, in 10 buildings at the Gouldings site, Centre Park Rd/Monahan Rd.

Managing director of OCP, Brian OCallaghan, hailed the decision as tremendous news.

This OCallaghan Properties project on the former Gouldings site at Centre Park Rd/Monahan Rd will be a game changer for the city and its Docklands.

The provision of a large quantum of housing within easy walking distance of the city centre is much needed and is a key to unlocking the full potential of Docklands.

The application for the LRD at Centre Park Rd/Monahan Rd was lodged with Cork City Council in June.

There are 51 conditions attached to Cork City Councils approval of the development.
CORK is the third most expensive university town, according to research.

Switcher.ie, and independent comparison websites revealed the cheapest places for students to study in Ireland as well as the monthly costs of university in each town in 2023.

Only Dublin and Maynooth are more expensive university towns than Cork.

Students in the capital spend 1,730 per month on average while students in Maynooth fork out 1,475 per month. Cork is third at 1,441 per month.

Commercial Director of Switcher.ie, Eoin Clarke said:

The cost-of-living crisis has walloped Irelands students. On top of fees and rent - everyday bills, food and the cost of just having fun has spiralled.

Price hikes have hammered everything from the price of a pint and a pizza to student essentials like broadband and mobile.

These rises have left many with the stark choice between heating and eating or skipping lectures for paid work to cover living costs, he said.

Letterkenny in Co Donegal is the cheapest student town in Ireland at 12,791 per month. Sligo at 1,135 and Waterford at 1,286 make up the top three cheapest university towns in Ireland.

Read the full research report here.


In a major relief to Imran Khan, the Islamabad High Court (IHC) on Tuesday suspended the former Prime Minister's sentence in the Toshakhana case and ordered his release from jail. A division bench of the IHC, comprising Chief Justice Aamer Farooq and Tariq Mehmood Jahangir, announced the short order, declaring the conviction of in the case as suspended.



As per the order, the former premier has been directed to submit surety bond worth 100,000 PKR and a guarantee of at least one person for his release.



Addressing mediapersons outside the IHC, Khan's lawyer Babar Awaz said that after suspension of the trial court verdict, his position as the chief of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party has also been reinstated.



After the suspension of trial court order, Imran Khan can no longer be kept at the Attock Jail. Also, after the court order, Imran Khans position as the party chief also stands reinstated. After this, PTI and Imran Khan will move towards elections, Awaz was quoted as saying.



Khan was arrested on August 5 from his Zaman Park residence in Lahore after a trial court issued its verdict in the Toshakhana case, finding the PTI chief guilty of opting to corrupt practices for personal gains using his office and its powers.



It sentenced him to three years in jail and imposed a fine of 100,000 PKR.



The trial court verdict also added that Khan would serve at least six-months more jail term if he fails to pay the fine.



In the wake of Tuesday's verdict, the PTI leadership and supporters are in celebration mode as they termed the decision of the IHC as their victory.



However, legal experts say that the IHC has not cancelled Khans conviction or disqualification, but has suspended it and issued a bail, adding that trouble was not yet over for the former Prime Minister.



The IHC has suspended Imran Khans sentence. It has not cancelled the case, nor has it ended the Toshakhana case against him. The suspension of the trial court means that there would be a re-trial into the case and PTI would file an appeal in the same case as well. Therefore, Imran Khans disqualification and conviction still stands and would be later decided in the re-trial proceedings, said Hafiz Ahsan Ahmed Khokar, a senior advocate of the Supreme Court of Pakistan.



The IHC verdict is based on the merits of the case and its trial at the session court.



The court had earlier stated that the merits of the case were not considered, and witnesses of Khan were also not allowed to record their statements, making the whole trial process a missed trial.



Meanwhile, Khan is still declared as arrested in two other cases -- the 9 May riots and Cipher case.



It is believed that he might be be kept in Attock Jail or may be moved into another prison as per his arrest in the other cases.






PASSENGERS travelling through Cork Airport have been advised to check the status of their flight before heading to the airport.

Tens of thousands of airline passengers travelling to and from Britain suffered flight cancellations today due to the impact of an air traffic control fault.

The issue started on Monday, when more than a quarter of flights at British airports were cancelled.

UK air traffic control company National Air Traffic Services suffered what it described as a technical issue preventing it from automatically processing flight plans.

This resulted in flights to and from British airports being restricted while the plans were checked manually.

Cork city resident Matthew McKevitts flight from Liverpool to Cork on yesterday afternoon was cancelled.

He was told to book a hotel and fly from Liverpool today, but due to work commitments he booked a flight from Manchester on Monday, which was eventually cancelled.

I booked into a hotel and had to take an extra day off work.

The airports were chaotic, but the staff were as helpful as they could be, he said.

Cork Airport communications manager Barry Holland, said that staff there are working hard to support passengers and to ensure passengers impacted by UK air traffic control issues resume their travel plans as quickly and as safely as possible.

Meanwhile, Ryanair boss Michael OLeary said that he hoped flights would be back to normal from today.

He said that today the airline had to cancel around 70 flights.

Thats a very small number out of the 3,200 flights were planning but that does not mean were not doing everything we possibly can to try to minimise the disruption for our passengers and their families, he said.
GETTING ready to go back to school after summer can be a bit tough for both parents and children.

Its a mix of excitement for the new school year, and some nervousness, especially for little ones starting their first year in school or those moving from primary to secondary school.

Most children will settle well into the new school year, however, there will be some children who are going to experience some worry and anxiety about the return.

Studies from the Growing Up In Ireland report found that at least one-fifth of young people transitioning from primary to secondary school reported feeling anxious.

For very young children, going to school for the first time can feel overwhelming. They might worry about making friends and adjusting to a new routine.

Equally, parents worry about whether their child will settle in and how they will cope with all the new demands placed on them.

If you have any concerns about how your child is coping with the upcoming transition, look out for signs that may indicate they are experiencing anxiety. These include excessive worrying, difficulty in sleeping, loss of appetite, irritability, trouble concentrating and not wanting to go to school.

Additionally, physical symptoms like headaches, abdominal pain, or nausea can also indicate that the child is experiencing emotional distress.

There are several things a parent or caregiver can do to help the child prepare for the transition to a new school.

First of all, it is crucial to maintain an ongoing conversation with the child of any age about their feelings regarding going back to, or starting school.

Parents and caregivers often respond to children who express worry or concerns with, Dont worry, youll be fine, with good intentions in mind, offering comfort and support. However, this approach may not allow the child to express their emotions fully or feel truly understood.

Listen carefully to them when they talk about their worries and let them know its OK to feel a bit nervous or unsure. Share with them that you also feel nervous sometimes and talking about it will help.

Another great idea is to encourage the younger child to express their worries and emotions through drawing or storytelling, for this you can use finger puppets. This creative outlet can be therapeutic and may give you some insights into how theyre feeling about starting school.

The transition from primary to secondary school can cause children various challenges that require many adjustments. The larger school environment, unfamiliar teachers, and classmates can contribute to heightened anxiety and feelings of uncertainty.

The academic demands become more challenging, and children must adapt to a more structured schedule. Making new friends and figuring out how to fit in with their new classmates can be tricky too.

The challenges of starting in a new school often trigger insecurities that can lead a child to believe the worst-case scenarios in many situations. They might think or say things like: No one will talk to me, I wont find my way around the place, everyone will look at me, they all think Im weird, and I wont be able to make new friends. Those types of thoughts can often lead to anxiety, depression, and anger and therefore interfere with a successful transition into secondary school, making new friends and being open to new experiences in general. Research in psychology has shown our thoughts determine how we feel emotionally and physically and how we behave. The good news is that with the right help, that inner voice and harmful thoughts can be changed.

Some practical steps you can take as a parent to ease your childs transition back to school:

1. Establish a Routine: Start easing your child into a school routine a week or two before the school starts. Set regular bedtimes and wake-up times to help them adjust to the new schedule gradually.

2. If your child is transitioning to a new school, visit the school together before the first day. Familiarise them with the surroundings, classrooms, and facilities to ease any apprehensions.

3. Encourage Friendships: Reach out to parents of your childs classmates and arrange playdates before the school year begins. Building friendships early can help your child feel more comfortable and connected when school starts.

4. Stay Positive: Share positive stories and experiences about your own school days to reinforce that school can be a fun and exciting place to learn and grow.

5. Role-Play: Pretend play scenarios can be beneficial in helping your child navigate potential challenging situations at school. Role-play common scenarios like introducing themselves to new classmates or seeking help from teachers.

6. Monitor Media Consumption: Limit exposure to distressing news or social media that may worsen anxiety in your child. Focus on engaging in positive and enjoyable activities together.

7. Teach Coping Strategies: Encourage your child to develop coping strategies like breathing exercises or short mindfulness exercises.

Remember, every childs experience is unique, and some may adjust quickly, while others may take more time. Be patient and offer continuous support, and most importantly, remind your child that you believe in their abilities to handle challenges and succeed.

As the school year progresses, keep the lines of communication open with your childs teachers. Collaborating with the school allows you to stay informed about your childs progress and any potential challenges they may face in the classroom. Working together, you can provide the necessary support and tailor strategies to address specific needs.

Encourage your child to engage in extracurricular activities and hobbies they enjoy. Participating in sports, arts, or clubs can boost their confidence, help them make new friends, and provide an outlet for stress relief.

If you notice persistent signs of anxiety or mood changes that interfere with your childs daily life, dont hesitate to seek professional help. Mental health professionals trained in working with children and adolescents can provide specialised guidance and support tailored to your childs unique needs.

Lets not forget, as parents, its essential to prioritise self-care to maintain your own well-being and ability to support your child effectively. Take time out for yourself, do activities you enjoy, and ask for support from friends, family, or support groups if needed. When you are emotionally stronger, you can better support your childs emotional well-being.

Remember, going back to school after the summer holidays can be a challenging time for both parents and children. Its okay to feel overwhelmed or unsure about how to handle certain situations. Dont be hard on yourself and getting guidance and support from others can help you navigate this transition successfully.

If you feel that you or your child might need a little bit more help, you can visit www.iacp.ie who have lots of accredited counsellors and psychotherapists with expertise in this area.

Susi Lodola MSc is accredited with the Irish Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (IACP) and owns the Susi Lodola Psychotherapy Centre in Old Bawn, Tallaght. Contact: info@susilodolacounselling.com www.susilodolacounselling.com
Stephen Maguire

A woman has appeared in court charged with the murder of a man whose body was found floating in waters off the Sliabh Liag cliffs in Co Donegal in July.

The body of Robert Wilkin (60s) was found on July 3rd after a week-long search by a number of State agencies, including gardai and the Irish Coastguard.

At a special sitting of Letterkenny District Court on Tuesday, Nikita Burns was charged with Mr Wilkin's murder. The 21-year-old is the second person to be charged in connection with Mr Wilkin's death.

Ms Burns, wearing white trousers and a black top, appeared before Judge Ciaran Liddy on Tuesday morning, with Detective Sgt Matthie Murphy of Ballyshannon Garda Station giving evidence of her arrest, charge and caution.

The court heard that when Ms Burns was charged with Mr Wilkin's murder on Monday night, she replied: "I didn't do it."

Garda Superintendent Karen Duffy asked the court to remand the accused in custody until September 4th to appear at Letterkenny District Court by videolink.

Solicitor for the accused, Rory O'Brien, said bail does not arise in the matter.

Mr O'Brien asked for legal aid which was granted, and he also asked that she receive all the necessary medical treatment while in custody, including any psychiatric treatment she may need.

The case was adjourned until September 3rd to seek directions from the Director of Public Prosecutions.
Quick Key Facts

Oil spills occur when crude oil is released into the surrounding environment  particularly oceans  and can threaten marine flora and fauna.

Spills are typically associated with offshore drilling operations, which drill below the surface of the ocean to access pockets of oil and gas.

Roughly 706 million gallons of oil enter the ocean every year.

The Deepwater Horizon BP Oil Spill of 2010 remains the largest marine oil spill in U.S. history, releasing 210 million gallons of oil into the Gulf of Mexico. More than a decade after the disaster, many marine species in the area are still recovering.

Animals active near the oceans surface are most impacted by oil spills  like seabirds and otters  as well as seals, whales, sea turtles, and many species of fish.

Along with their environmental impact, oil spills also affect human health and the economies of surrounding communities.

Booms, skimmers, dispersion, biological agents, and burning are among the more common methods of cleaning up an oil spill.

What Is Oil?

Crude oil or petroleum is a liquid fossil fuel. We use it to generate electricity, heat our homes, and fuel our cars. Petroleum products supply about 35% of energy in the U.S., with transportation accounting for the largest portion. Burning fossil fuels like oil releases greenhouse gases into the atmosphere that drive climate change.

While oil is also found under land, much is stored under the ocean floor. This oil was formed from deposits of plankton that decayed over time, and under intense heat and pressure, turned into compounds of hydrogen and carbon. This raw material for oil travels upward over time to where there is less pressure, until it is stopped by impermeable rock and then settles in reservoirs under the sea bed.

Oil is acquired by drilling into the ocean floor to extract it from the rock in which its stored. Its pumped out, then transported by pipes, ships, trains, or trucks to refineries that process the oil so it can be used to create a variety of products like plastics, gasoline, and other fuels. In this whole process of drilling and transporting, oil can be spilled into the surrounding environment. An estimated 706 million gallons of oil enter the ocean every year, which has massive human and environmental impacts.

Offshore Drilling: The Basics

Oil spills are typically associated with offshore drilling operations, which access these underground pockets of oil and gas by drilling through the ocean floor. In 2021, 15% of crude oil was procured from offshore drilling operations, as was 2% of gas.

Offshore drilling is anything but simple. Its a lengthy process that takes years of construction and hundreds of million dollars to carry out. Because coastal waters are public land, fossil fuel companies must first lease parcels from the government in order to drill, which requires navigating the complicated regulation of these natural areas. The operator does an exploration of the area (often through seismic testing) to find oil and gas reserves, then builds mobile offshore drilling units  otherwise known as MODUs, oil rigs, or oil platforms  to dig a well. MODUs are some of the largest human-made structures on Earth and are also used to house workers and store equipment. Oil is pulled from the wells, stored, processed, and then transported to the coast via pipelines. In the U.S., offshore drilling happens mostly in Alaska, the Pacific Coast, and the Gulf of Mexico.

How Do Oil Spills Happen?

Its not hard to imagine that in the midst of all of these complicated, massive drilling processes, oil can spill into the surrounding environment. These spills can happen anywhere where oil is being drilled, used, refined, or transported, whether it be in oceans, lakes, or rivers. Oil spills can happen naturally in whats called a petroleum seep, during which hydrocarbons escape and reach the surface of the water due to activity deep inside the Earth (often the erosion of sedimentary rock). However, most large spills are from anthropogenic sources.

We all hear about the most disastrous oil spills in the news, but they actually happen pretty frequently: thousands each year, in fact. Many are small and can happen, for example, when a ship is being refueled. Drilling fluid is also used for lubrication in wells  also known as mud  and is supposed to be captured, but often leaks in the process. Large spills are much more disastrous, and come from different places within offshore drilling operations: transport containers, drilling platforms, and oil wells, primarily. They are caused by human error, breaking or malfunctioning equipment, natural disasters like hurricanes or high winds, or deliberate acts of terror or illegal action. A series of oil spills followed Hurricane Katrina in 2005, with 450 pipelines and 100 drilling platforms impacted by the disastrous weather. Oil can leak from a poorly maintained container, or a huge amount can be released when tanker ships rupture or a pipeline breaks, for example.

Abandoned oil wells are another large source of oil spills. Oil wells are shut down by operators when they are no longer profitable, and while the companies are required to remove their equipment and restore the area they worked in, this often doesnt happen. Wells therefore often remained uncapped and leak oil into the oceans and atmosphere. Its estimated that 28,232 permanently abandoned wells currently exist in federal waters.

After oil spills, it spreads across the surface of the water and forms whats called an oil slick, the major source of concern in the aftermath of a spill.

Historic Oil Spills

Santa Barbara Oil Spill

Workmen rake oil-soaked hay along a beach in Santa Barbara, California after an offshore oil well broke and spilled more than 200,000 gallons of oil into the sea, on Feb. 7, 1969. Bettmann / Getty Images

This 1969 spill near the city of Santa Barbara in Southern California was the worst oil spill in history at the time. A huge explosion occurred at the drilling site, which is largely attributed to inadequate safety precautions at the site and waivers given by the U.S. Geological Survey that allowed for weak protection of the drilling hole. About 4 million gallons of oil flowed into the Santa Barbara Channel, leaving an oil slick along 35 miles of California coast. The disaster spurred a huge amount of environmental action  the creation of Earth Day is attributed in part to the spill  and new federal policies arose regarding offshore drilling, including requirements for operators to pay for oil spill cleanups.

Amoco Cadiz Oil Spill

Children look at a beach covered with oil after the sinking of the oil tanker Amoco Cadiz, near the small port of Portsall on the coast of Brittany, France on April 12, 1978. JEAN-PIERRE PREVEL / AFP via Getty Images

In 1978, a crude carrier owned by American petroleum company Amoco containing 69 million gallons of oil hit shallow rocks on the French coast near Brittany due to a mechanical failure of the steering system, coupled with stormy weather. Over the course of two weeks, all of the oil was released in the ocean and 200 miles of the coast was polluted. Millions of invertebrates and 20,000 birds died, and oyster beds in the area were contaminated. Weeks after the incident, millions of dead benthic species  including molluscs and sea urchins  washed ashore.

Atlantic Empress Oil Spill

The Atlantic Empress tanker aflame and spewing heavy smoke after colliding with another Liberian tanker on July 21, 1979. Bettmann / Getty Images

To this day, the Atlantic Empress spill is considered the worst tanker oil spill (specifically from an oil tanker, as opposed to an oil rig or other source) in history, and fifth-largest spill overall. In 1979 off the coast of Trinidad and Tobago, the Greek oil tanker collided with another tanker due to heavy rain and foggy conditions. An estimated 287,000 tons of crude oil was spilled (there are about 305 gallons of oil in one metric ton), 27 people died, and the Empress was still burning a week after the collision.

Exxon Valdez Oil Spill

An oil skimming operation works in a heavy oil slick near Latouche Island near the southwest end Prince William Sound in Valdez, Alaska, a week after the Exxon Valdez oil spill disaster, on April 1, 1989. CHRIS WILKINS / AFP via Getty Images

On March 24, 1989 in Alaskas Prince William Sound, the Exxon Valdez set another record as the worst oil spill in history at that time. The tanker transporting crude oil ran aground at Bligh Reed and ruptured, spilling eight of its eleven cargo tanks into the ocean. Along the shoreline, 1,300 miles of pristine wilderness were contaminated by 11 million gallons of oil. The spill is remembered for its huge impacts on local wildlife: hundreds of thousands of seabirds, thousands of mammals, and hundreds of bald eagles were killed. Thirty years later, killer whales and some seabird populations still havent fully recovered. Various cleanup methods were employed after the spill, including burning the oil, mechanically removing it, and hot-water hosing the shore. However, some of these treatments (especially the hot water) were found to actually be harmful to the environment. After the cleanup effort, only 14% of oil had been removed and 13% had sunk into the ocean  the rest evaporated and degraded over time. To this day, pockets of oil are still present on the scene underground.

Deepwater Horizon BP Oil Spill

Fire boat response crews battle the blazing remnants of the off shore oil rig Deepwater Horizon in the Gulf of Mexico on April 21, 2010 near New Orleans, Louisiana. U.S. Coast Guard via Getty Images

The largest marine oil spill in U.S. history, the Deepwater Horizon  often just called the BP oil spill  is widely remembered for its devastating impact. On April 20, 2010 in the Gulf of Mexico, an explosion on a drilling platform killed 11 people and caused 210 million gallons of oil to spill into the ocean. Within five days the oil had covered 580 square miles, and within 10 days, 3850 square miles. The oil flowed for 87 days from the Macondo Prospect before it was capped. The spill occurred in one of the most biodiverse marine areas in the world and had a massive impact on the environment. While some species have rebounded, many are still struggling today, including deep-sea coral and spotted sea trout. Preliminary research shows that many dolphins in the area have remained sick, and have a much lower rate of successful pregnancies. Restoration  funded by a $8.8 billion settlement with BP  is still active today.

Environmental Impact of Oil Spills

Oil clings to everything: rocks, sand, plants, and animals. When it eventually stops floating, it sinks below the surface of the ocean and continues to impact species underneath. The seriousness of a spill can be a function of location, habitat, and the concentration and type of chemicals in the oil. Because they arent able to disperse as much, spills that happen closest to shore are often the most dangerous  although those that occur far out at sea cover a huge range and thus impact a larger area. Wherever they occur, oil spills have a devastating impact on the natural world.

Disruption to Ecosystems

Clearly, such a huge influx of oil destroys natural habitats in its wake. It coats plants, soaks into the soil and sand, and poisons or suffocates species. When oil floats on top of the water, light cant penetrate and photosynthesis is prevented, meaning plants that provide food for many underwater species cant grow. Oil also erodes shorelines and harms vulnerable ecosystems like wetlands. The Deepwater Horizon explosion especially impacted Louisianas Mississippi River Delta ecosystem, which provides vital ecosystem services like flood control, and important nesting areas for animals and host birds during migration seasons.

Harm to Animals

Oil floats, so animals close to the surface, like birds and otters, are often impacted. The Exxon Valdez spill, for example, resulted in the death of 250,000 seabirds, 3,000 sea otters, 300 harbor seals, 250 eagles, and 22 killer whales. Similarly, the BP oil spill was fatal to 1 million seabirds, 5,000 marine mammals, and 1,000 sea turtles.

A brown pelican coated in heavy oil from the Deepwater Horizon spill on East Grand Terre Island, Louisiana on June 4, 2010. Win McNamee / Getty Images

Ocean wildlife is primarily impacted by oiling (or fouling) on their external bodies. Weve all seen an image of a duckling covered in oil, and its as deadly as it looks. When oil coats the wings of birds, they are unable to fly and become victim to predators, or cant flee the scene of the spill. It also impacts the insulating properties of fur for sea otters and other mammals, who then cant regulate their body temperature and become at risk for developing hypothermia. Other mammals are impacted, too, like whales, dolphins, and seals, whose blow holes get clogged by oil, leaving them unable to breathe.

Oil toxicity impacts the internal body of animals, too. The toxic compounds in oil are poisonous to animals. Many swallow or inhale the oil while cleaning themselves, or when they eat prey that have been coated in it. The oil can damage the immune system and the heart, impact the function of lungs and liver, blind animals, and cause reproductive changes.

Oil spills can affect the population numbers and long-term survival of species as well  especially when, like the BP oil spill, they occur during mating and nesting season. Sea turtles, for example, spend most of their life at sea, but come to land to nest and breed. If damaged by oil, their eggs might not develop properly. Fish eggs and larvae are especially threatened by oil spills. Shrimp and oyster fisheries along the coast of Louisiana were seriously harmed during the BP oil spill, and it took nearly 30 years for fisheries impacted by the Exxon Valdez spill to recover. Even if a species itself isnt directly impacted by the spill, these population declines impact food chains  if a species depends on prey that have been killed in a spill, they will suffer, too.

A dead sea turtle next to a rolling tide of crude oil from the BP Deepwater Horizon disaster, on the shore of East Grand Terre Island, Louisiana on June 7, 2010. Benjamin Lowy / Getty Images

Atmospheric Impacts

While it might not be as immediately obvious, atmospheric pollution is another harmful impact of oil spills. During the cleanup efforts after the BP oil spill, for example, the oil was burned off the surface of the ocean, releasing 1 million pounds of black carbon into the atmosphere. Methane  a climate-warming greenhouse gas  is also released in oil spills It often forms alongside fossil fuels in underground reservoirs, so when oil is released, so is methane.

The Issue of Arctic Drilling

Offshore drilling in the Arctic is of particular concern. The Arctic warms at twice the rate of the rest of the world and could be ice-free in the summer by the 2030s, opening the path for more oil and gas exploration. It is among the most remote areas on the planet and would be nearly impossible to clean up in the event of a major oil spill. Emergency responders are not nearly as widespread, environmental conditions make it difficult to transport major equipment out there, and because less than 1% of the U.S. Arctic has been surveyed with modern technology, we do not have very accurate navigational charts of the area. There have been arguments to ban the use and carriage of oil on ships in the Arctic, or to create safe shipping corridors that dont go through vulnerable habitats. However, in March the Biden administration announced plans to block oil and gas drilling in swaths of the Arctic Ocean and Alaska, while simultaneously approving the highly controversial Willow oil project on the North Slope of Alaska, about 200 miles north of the Arctic Circle, drawing major criticism from environmental groups.

Social Impact of Oil Spills

Along with these serious environment impacts, oil spills also cause harm to humans  particularly those in communities surrounding the spills.

Human Health

Among other harmful substances, crude oil contains volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which can impact both the respiratory system and the nervous system. Workers and volunteers cleaning up the spill have direct exposure to the oil, and community members can still inhale these chemicals as they are dispersed by the wind, or ingest contaminated seafood and water. The BP oil spill was one harrowing example of the impact that oil spills can have on human health. In the months after the disaster, many citizens  especially those that helped in the cleanup  reported symptoms. Research has linked exposure of those who helped with the cleanup in the aftermath of the BP oil spill with increased risk of cancer, long-term respiratory conditions, and heart disease, as well as blurred vision, headaches, and memory loss. Local residents have coined their chronic symptoms after the cleanup  which include diarrhea, rashes, and respiratory problems  BP syndrome or Gulf Coast syndrome, according to The Guardian. Besides these physical impacts, elevated rates of depression, anxiety, and PTSD have been documented in cleanup workers and volunteers.

Loss of Revenue and Resources

Commercial fishing and tourism  two industries that prop up many economies  can be devastated by oil spills. In the aftermath, beaches and parks along the shoreline close for lengthy periods  and in general, tourists are less likely to want to visit these places and may believe a wider area to be impacted than actually is. In areas that depend on tourism, this can be devastating to their economies. After the BP oil spill, the regions commercial fishing industry reported $62 million in losses, and the tourism industry $1.5 billion. For tribes and First Nations that depend upon natural resources, an oil spill could be disastrous to the entire fabric of their community and survival.

Oil Spill Cleanups

The response to oil spills is generally fourfold:

Stopping the flow of oil and protecting areas that might be harmed by it. Removing the oil from the environment. Recovering and rehabilitating wildlife. Restoring the impacted area.

Sensitive locations in particular, like wetlands, nesting areas, and beaches, need to be protected from oil slicks. Some sensitive habitats need very specific cleanup processes so they are not further damaged. It can be difficult to enact cleanups when the spill happens over a wide area, and when it impacts larger animals like whales, which are hard to recover and rehabilitate.

Data collection is an important element of oil spill cleanups. NASA takes satellite and airborne data to locate oil and determine its trajectory. ERMA (Environmental Response Management Application)  which NOAA made available during the Deepwater Horizon spill  is an important mapping tool that uses Environmental Sensitivity Index maps, locations of ships, currents, weather, etc. to aid in cleanup efforts. The U.S. Coast Guard is primarily responsible for oil spill cleanups, as well as the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The Oil Pollution Act of 1990 also established that the party responsible for an oil spill can be held responsible for costs incurred in cleaning up and restoring the area.

A cleanup crew mops up oil in the Talbert Marsh, home to many birds and wildlife, after an estimated 127,000 gallons of crude oil leaked from an oil derrick pipeline in Californias Catalina Channel, on Oct. 4, 2021. Citizen of the Planet / Universal Images Group via Getty Images

Cleanup Methods

Oil spills can take many years to completely clean up. Often, several methods of cleanup are employed at once. The type used depends on how much and what type of oil is spilled, where the oil has spilled and its distance from the shore, what species and habitats are being impacted, and whether people live in the area. The following are among the most common methods and technologies, although ultimately, none removes 100% of oil on its own.

Booms are floating barriers made of plastic or metal. These are strategically placed in the ocean to help contain the oil and slow its spread, especially to keep it away from certain sensitive areas. Booms can be placed around a leaking tanker, or along coastal areas as protection.

are floating barriers made of plastic or metal. These are strategically placed in the ocean to help contain the oil and slow its spread, especially to keep it away from certain sensitive areas. Booms can be placed around a leaking tanker, or along coastal areas as protection. Skimmers are deployed by boats to skim the oil off the surface of the ocean, although their viability depends on the thickness of the oil slick.

are deployed by boats to skim the oil off the surface of the ocean, although their viability depends on the thickness of the oil slick. Burning  or situ burning  is less common, and entails setting the oil slick ablaze.

 or situ burning  is less common, and entails setting the oil slick ablaze. Dispersion uses chemical dispersants to break up the oil slick by dispersing it into the water column so that less remains on the surface of the ocean.

uses chemical dispersants to break up the oil slick by dispersing it into the water column so that less remains on the surface of the ocean. Biological agents like microbes or fertilizers are used to break down oil.

Cleanup efforts are made on the shorelines surrounding a spill as well, using biodegradation agents, burning, and manual and mechanical removal, as well as other methods. Vacuum trucks suck up the oil-polluted water, sorbents absorb the oil like a sponge, and water hoses rinse the oil into the water where it can be collected more easily.

The dorsal fin of a dolphin is seen as cleanup workers collect tar balls of oil along a stretch of oil-contaminated beach in Grand Isle, Louisiana following the BP oil spill, on June 14, 2010. Spencer Platt / Getty Images

Restoration

Restoration is another important part of oil spill responses. These projects are different from the cleanup itself  beyond merely removing the oil, they entail actively restoring habitats that have been destroyed. Restoration might mean rebuilding a marshland, reintroducing lost species, controlling erosion, or otherwise supporting the ecosystem services and functions that help the ecosystem heal itself. In the aftermath of a spill, a Natural Resource Damage Assessment (NRDA) is completed by NOAA to determine the impacts of the spill and then settle how the cleanup will be paid for. Usually this process is done between the party that caused the spill and government agencies at the state and federal level, as well as tribal agencies.

Takeaway

Oil spills are major environmental disasters that will likely continue as long as our dependence on oil does. A global transition to clean energy would be a necessary large-scale change in order to eliminate oil spills as a threat, although reducing our personal use of fossil fuels is a useful beginning, including driving less, powering our homes with clean energy, and using less plastic.

While offshore drilling is still a reality, responsible choices by operators can prevent deadly oil spills from occurring, such as performing routine inspections of operations, investing in training of workers, and adhering to requirements made by legislative bodies.

Legislative action regarding boat safety and offshore drilling is a proven useful avenue in preventing spills. The 1990 Oil Pollution Act stipulated that all tankers must be double-hulled by 2015. In 2021, the Polar Endeavour collided with a tugboat, suffering a four-foot indentation that penetrated the outer hull of the ship but not the inner, so no oil was spilled. This event shows that safety legislation can be effective at preventing spills, and electing representatives who champion environmental protection is an important tool at our disposal.




Zoetis opens new diagnostics, biodevices R&D facility in Durham, North Carolina, US

Zoetis celebrated on August 24 the official opening of its new 78,000-square-foot building in Durham, North Carolina, the United States.

The facility is dedicated to diagnostics and biodevices research and development to meet the needs of veterinarians, livestock farmers and pet owners.

North Carolina Secretary of Commerce Machelle Baker Sanders and State Rep. Zack Hawkins joined Zoetis chief executive officer Kristin Peck and other company officials and employees at the ribbon-cutting ceremony in front of the facility. North Carolina State University's College of Agriculture & Life Sciences also had representatives at the event.

"The investment we have here is because of what you have delivered, your commitment to the company, to our customers and to animals," Peck said, addressing employees. "And the confidence we have in you is why you see this investment here in Durham.

"It's also super exciting to celebrate our expanded presence here in Durham around R&D, biodevices and diagnostics, and to really have the opportunity to bring so much more of the diagnostics work here into Durham," Peck said.

The expanded site will serve as the hub for Zoetis' engineering and diagnostics work, including device reliability testing. The new building features more than 78,000 square feet, including 23,000 square feet of total lab space allotted for a biodevice engineering lab, biodevice science lab, diagnostics engineering lab and diagnostics engineering lab space.

Zoetis employs approximately 200 people at its sites in Durham, more than half of whom are dedicated to the company's R&D work.

Robert Polzer, executive vice president and president of R&D at Zoetis, said: "The Durham community has been an absolutely fantastic home to our technologies for several years and this represents an evolution of our commitment to the Durham area to deliver our next-generation products."

Polzer said that Zoetis has more than a hundred colleagues within R&D at the Durham facility, with about 50% of them on board over the past three years.

"Our group, our talents, our expertise only represent one piece of our puzzle," Polzer said. "The other critical piece is obviously our ability to tap into local talent and expertise. Durham, a vibrant community, and the neighboring communities offer tremendous opportunities for partnerships and collaborations to ensure that we can deliver on our journey going forward."

- Zoetis
NATO military assistance to Ukraine recently included a second mobile AUD (Anti UAV Defense) system. This one is the Norwegian Cortex Typhon that is mounted in a German Dingo armored truck, and has a UAV detection system combining a RWS (Remote Weapons System) armed with a 12.7mm machine-gun to destroy hostile UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicles). The system can be used in fully automatic mode, to fire on any UAV within range, or with the operators having the option to decide which target is hostile or friendly and not fire on friendlies. The 12.7mm machine-gun has an effective range of two kilometers, which is about half the range of the 70mm guided rocket used in an earlier AUD system. The machine-gun bullet is much faster than the guided rocket.

In 2022 the American Vampire AUD system was sent to Ukraine. Vampire is palletized. That means all components are secured on a shipping pallet that can be mounted in a pickup truck or a military vehicle like the hummer. Vampire consists of a telescoping mast mounting a electro-optical/infrared modular sensor ball and laser designator, a generator for power and Fletcher launcher that carries four APKWS 70mm laser guided rockets. These weigh only 15 kg (32 pounds) each and have a range of about a thousand meters when fired from the ground. Vampire can be used to detect and fire APKWS laser guided rockets at air and even ground targets. Any UAV, cruise missile or helicopter within range is vulnerable. Vampire is designed to be reconfigured, which is the kind of system Ukrainians prefer. The Fletcher launcher is designed to use the new, longer range APKWS rockets that gain additional range by having a larger rocket motor which makes the APKWS longer. Ukrainians are expected to modify Vampire to better suit their needs or simply to obtain longer range while carrying more rockets ready to fire.

Vampire was effective in Ukraine and now Cortex Typhon will seek to do as well or better.

Until the Ukraine War created an enormous demand for AUDs, Israel was the leader in combat proven AUD systems. One example is Skylock, which proved itself against Iranian UAVs used during the early 2021 Hamas/Israel ten-day war with Israel. This brief conflict provided ample opportunities to test new Israeli AUD systems. Israel is a leader in the development of AUDs, mainly because it faces attacks from the widest variety of UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicles) types, and the most attacks using UAVs.

In preparation for a large-scale use of different type UAVs against Israel from Iran-backed Hamas in Gaza, or Hezbollah (Lebanon) and Iran (Syria), Israel had developed numerous ways to detect and destroy or disable hostile UAVs. During the recent ten-day war Israel detected and defeated six Hamas UAV attacks. There may have been other Hamas UAVs launched that never got near the border because of UAV malfunctions or operator error. The six UAVs that were a threat were all detected and taken down via missiles, usually from Iron Dome but one was by an air-to-air missile, and at least one UAV was disabled using a technology that Israel would not discuss. This was probably one of the electronic AUD systems, which Israeli tech companies have developed over the last few years.

One of the new (to large-scale combat) systems Israel would discuss was one that received data from all sensors (radars or electronic detection systems) and, in real time, created a single database/map display of all enemy systems detected. One feature of this new systems software was an accurate estimate of where UAVs were launched from. This provides an opportunity to attack the UAV operator or launch site. This system was already causing more losses to Hamas rocket launching teams, who thought the Israelis were just getting lucky. Now Hamas knows that luck had nothing to do with it. Israel has often sought to come up with defenses against new enemy weapons or tactics with a multi-system solution. Nowhere has this been more evident than when it comes to the growing threat from armed UAVs.

For over a decade, many if not most new AUD systems have come from Israel. Many specialize in the use of multiple sensors and systems to detect and disable UAVs. The best and most recent example of this is Skylock, an AUD system using multiple sensors and EW (Electronic Warfare) equipment, plus a short-range laser, to detect, identify and jam or take over unidentified UAVs trying to enter military bases, airports, or industrial facilities. Skylock uses a combination of radar, electro-optical (visual) and electronic signal monitoring sensors capable of detecting the smallest UAVs, especially quad-copters, approaching a restricted area. Another Israeli approach is to use an interceptor UAV that can drop a net on a UAV but the preferred method is to jam the UAV control signals or, if possible, seize control and land it.

A growing number of AUDs are built to deal with any small UAV. One of the more effective, and expensive of these AUDs is the Israeli Drone Dome system. These cost $3.4 million each and consist of a 360-degree radar system, an electro-optical day/night surveillance unit and a wideband (most frequencies drones use) detector. With all this Drone Dome can reliably detect any small quadcopter or fixed-wing UAV within 3,500 meters. Most quadcopters and UAVs encountered are larger and can be detected out to ten kilometers. Once spotted, Drone Dome can use a focused jamming signal that will disrupt any radio control signals and force the drone to crash or operate erratically. Drone Dome has an optional laser gun that can be aimed by Drone Dome to destroy the drone at ranges up to 2,000 meters. In a combat zone, you can also employ machine-guns to bring down the drone. Many buyers do not purchase the laser option and depend on Drone Dome being able to reliably detect all manner of small quadcopters from several manufacturers.

What makes Skylock and Drone Dome different is their heavy use of electronic sensors to detect and jam the control signals used by UAVs, leaving the laser as a last resort. Several such AUD systems are already in service and effective because they are good at detecting UAVs electronically, and either jamming those control signals or taking over the control signals and capturing (by making it land) the UAV. American troops in Iraq and Syria were asking for AUD systems that use lasers, plus better UAV detection systems as well those with jammers to disable UAVs. There is also a need for AUDs that can detect and destroy UAVs that do not use control signals and basically go on pre-programmed missions. This can be to take photos or deliver a small explosive. Usually, it is to take photos and return. Drone Dome is one of several AUD systems equipped to detect and locate UAVs operating in pre-programmed mode and destroy or disable them quietly with a vehicle-mounted laser.

AUDs like Drone Dome also use one or more radar systems and one or more sensor systems for detecting UAV control signals or visual images that pattern recognition software can quickly identify. While commercial UAVs are more common, the basic design principles have not changed. AUDs are constantly evolving to better detect and disable or destroy unwanted UAVs. The best ones are recent models that tend to be very expensive and used only for extreme situations, like UAV defense in combat zones. Airports, especially the large ones are going to have to join the military in buying the latest AUDs, which at least lowers the AUD price and inspires even faster innovation and development.

Ukraine could have used Skylock or Drone Dome, but Israel does not provide weapons for Ukraine because of an arrangement with Russia to assist Israel in keeping Iranian forces in Syria from getting close to the Israeli border or launching any attacks on Israel. In Ukraine, NATO nations providing weapons are not directly threatened with Russian attacks. Such is not the case with Iranian forces in Syria, Lebanon and Gaza. It is not yet clear if Vampire and Cortex Typhon were more or as effective as the Israeli AUD systems.
Lottery Trust grant helps Hospice re-open day unit



Hospice day unit

Manx Lottery Trust has awarded Hospice Isle of Man a 50,000 grant to assist with the costs needed to re-launch a therapeutic day unit.

The day unit, which was previously halted due to Covid-19, was established for people with life limiting illnesses, carers, family members, or bereaved persons to attend interactive workshops in a "social and psychologically safe" environment.

The unit has re-opened for one day a week and "will offer a varied programme to give patients and their families the opportunity to make informed choices about what might be important to them".

Vanessa Smith, Head of Income Generation at Hospice Isle of Man, said: The Hospice ethos is to empower people to adapt to their new state of living, with dignity and compassion.

Before it was paused during Covid, the feedback we received from those who attended our Day Unit was incredibly positive. Sadly, we have not been in a financial position to cover the cost of re-opening the Day Unit service, particularly with the cost of living crisis and falling income streams.

We are therefore extremely grateful for the generous support of the Manx Lottery Trust which has allowed us to restart this hugely beneficial service!
For a decade Greece has been the largest merchant-ship owner in the world, operating about 23 percent of the global fleet of 119,000 sea-going cargo ships. As of 2023, China is now in first place, which is not a surprise. Greece, or rather Greek shipping companies, have long controlled the largest fraction of the global shipping fleet. This was not because the Greek economy needed that many merchant-ships but because the Greeks have long been the most efficient managers of commercial shipping. That is still the case but China now has the second-largest economy in the world, is the largest ship builder and a major user of merchant ships to move its growing tonnage of imports and exports, and prefers to manage most of the ships moving this cargo. China may not be as efficient at managing shipping as the Greeks but China is good enough and is only managing China-owned or operated ships.

The Chinese government aided and encouraged local shipbuilders to become more productive and competitive. A major milestone occurred in 2019 when Chinas two major shipbuilders, CSSC and CSIC, merged to create the largest shipbuilder in the world with 310,000 employees. A decade ago, there were nearly half a million employees but recessions and continued competition from rivals South Korea and Japan forced the change. The new company, CSG (China Shipbuilding Group), as well as the two it merged from, are all state-owned. The merger is a return to the situation in 1999 when CSSC and CSIC were created from the then single state-owned shipbuilding operation. This was meant to encourage competition and it worked.

Chinese shipbuilders, mainly the now reunited two large firms, account for most shipbuilding in China and have been striving to overtake their main rival South Korea as the largest shipbuilder in the world in all categories. There are several ways to measure shipbuilder output and South Korea is the champion in most of them. Japan was once in first place but now must settle for third place. South Korea and China have been close competitors for first place since 2012 and to that end, the two largest South Korean shipbuilders also merged in 2019.

South Korea has been making a comeback in shipbuilding, an industry it led until 2012 when it was briefly overtaken by China. By 2018 South Korean firms surpassed China in new orders. This was mainly because South Korean shipbuilders are seen as leaders in the construction of more complex transports, in particular, LNG (Liquid Natural Gas) vessels, which transport refrigerated (enough to turn natural gas to a more compact liquid) natural gas. Demand for LNG ships is driven by the growing output of natural gas in the United States and Canada as a result of improved extraction methods, mainly fracking. The North American natural gas market is saturated and American and Canadian producers can afford to lower prices enough to export large quantities via LNG carriers. Europe is eager for LNG because the current major supplier (via pipeline) is Russia and Russia is seen as more of a danger than a reliable economic partner. Another form of unique ship construction that South Korea has excelled at is off-shore oil exploration and drilling vessels and structures. The offshore platforms are built in shipyards and are mobile, via towing at slow speeds from one work site to another.

All major shipbuilders are also dealing with a sharp decline in orders since the global economic recession began in 2008, which was the year with the highest number of orders ever. The business has never recovered, all major shipbuilders had to cut prices and many ships were built at a loss or for no profit just to keep the yards operating. One way China helped its shipyards cope was by increasing orders for warships. This was going to happen anyway but the government gave the navy all it wanted and then some. This resulted in 2019 being a record year for warship construction with 28 surface warships launched, including a record ten destroyers plus 16 corvettes and two large amphibious ships. While warships are more complex ships to build, commercial ships still accounted for over 95 percent of the work at the new China Shipbuilding Group. Now China is also the largest producer of non-nuclear warships.

China continues to lead the global shipbuilding industry in new orders. This is mainly because of their lower prices and gradual improvements in quality. Chinese prices are not as low as they used to be because a growing labor shortage has driven wages up. In the long-term China can learn to compete on quality but that is not something that can be achieved quickly, like cutting prices. When it comes to moving LNG or offshore drilling for oil, buyers tend to go with the most reliable shipbuilders, even if it costs more. Moreover, Chinese shipyards have some unique financing and management problems that may get a lot worse because of problems in the Chinese banking industry.

In 2012 South Korea lost its decade long battle with China to retain its lead in shipbuilding. Because of a five-year long depression in the world market for shipping, South Korean ship exports fell 30 percent in 2012, to $37.8 billion. China, helped by government subsidies, saw ship exports fall only 10.3 percent, leaving China with $39.2 billion in export sales. The Chinese government has also been giving its shipbuilders lots of new orders for warships, which made its yards more profitable and better able to beat South Korea on price. The Chinese government also provides its shipbuilders with more loans, allowing the builders to offer better credit terms to customers. South Korea was still ahead of China in total orders for ships but that lead was being lost as well as in 2011 South Korea was barely ahead of China. Since 2012 China and South Korea have been competing for overall first place but so far South Korea has the edge in quality and innovation, and the recent Chinese merger was meant to deal with that by combining nearly all Chinese research and development of new ship designs in one company.

China has been helping its shipyards since the late 1990s, and that enabled Chinese shipbuilders to gradually catch up to South Korea and Japan. In 2009, sooner than anyone expected, China surpassed South Korea as the world's largest shipbuilder in terms of tonnage. In late 2009, Chinese yards had orders for 54.96 million CGT of ships, compared to 53.63 million CGT for South Korea. Thus, China had 34.7 percent of the world market. In 2000, South Korea previously took the lead from Japan in 2000 in having the largest share of the world shipbuilding market.

The terms used to measure commercial ship size can be confusing but they serve a purpose. CGT stands for Compensated Gross Tons. This is a new standard for measuring shipyard effort. Gross tons have long been used as a measure of the volume within a ship. CGT expands on this by adding adjustments to the complexity of the ship design. Thus, a chemical tanker would end up with a value four times that of a container ship. China is producing far more ships, in terms of tonnage of steel and internal volume, than South Korea, mainly because a much larger portion of Chinese ships are simpler designs. South Korea has, over the years, pioneered the design and construction of more complex ships (chemical and LNG carriers).

Note that deadweight tons measure the actual weight of everything carried in the ship, including supplies, miscellaneous equipment, fuel, and even crew, expressed in long (metric) tons. As a rule, for every 1,500 deadweight tons, a cargo ship could carry about 1,775 measurement tons. Warship tonnage is measured differently, in terms of "displacement tons." Each cubic meter (35 cubic feet) of seawater displaced by the vessel is a "displacement ton." As that volume of seawater weighs approximately one long ton, displacement gives a rough indication of the actual weight of the vessel.

China has invested a lot of money and effort into expanding its merchant shipbuilding industry, to improve its warship building capability. In 2006 China produced about a quarter of the world's merchant shipping, while South Korea was in the first place, producing about a third. It was then believed that China would take first place in the next 5-10 years.

The big thing holding China back in the warship building area has been the shortage of skilled personnel. By encouraging merchant shipbuilding, the government creates experienced shipbuilders ready to learn the more complex tasks needed to build warships. In most cases merchant ships are larger than warships and much less complex. For example, a common type of merchant ship is the VLCC (Very Large Crude Carrier) of 300,000 deadweight tons (DWT). This is the largest size tanker that can use the Straits of Malacca to carry oil from the Persian Gulf to East Asia. These ships haul over two million barrels (about 290,000 tons) of oil per trip. These ships are larger than the biggest American aircraft carriers, such as the Nimitz class which are 110,000 tons displacement and nearly 354 meters (1,100 feet) long.

The major difference between merchant vessels and warships is what equipment they have. Merchant ships are quite basic and plain. A 300,000 DWT VLCC is about the same size as a Nimitz class carrier but costs much less to build ($130 million for the VLCC versus over $4 billion for the carrier). It costs more to run a carrier for one year than the VLCC costs to build. Part of that has to do with crew size, with the carrier having a hundred sailors for every one sailor needed to run the VLCC. A VLCC is highly automated and the crew size is usually under fifty sailors and officers.

By building all those merchant vessels China has acquired the ability to cheaply build basic warship hulls. Where it has big problems is in creating the complex electronics, mechanical systems, and weapons needed to make a warship work. China is making progress there as well, but not nearly as much as it has in the shipbuilding area.

China became a major force in commercial shipping partly because it became more difficult for South Korean builders to expand. There were more restrictions on land use in South Korea, in addition to higher labor costs. South Korean builders, seeing that they could not match the expansion of Chinese shipyards, expended more effort on building more complex, and expensive, ships. Japan was following a similar path when it lost the lead to South Korea a decade before China grabbed it. China also gained more market share by offering generous loan terms to foreign buyers of Chinese ships and cheap loans for their own shipbuilders.
The F-22 and F-35 are two of the most cutting-edge and capable war machines in America's arsenal. They also cost $143 million and $75 million a pop, respectively. Facing increasing pressure from China, which has accelerated its conventional weapon procurement efforts in recent months, the Pentagon announced Monday a program designed to build out America's drone production base in response. As part of that effort, the United States Air Force has requested nearly $6 billion in federal funding over the next five years to construct a fleet of XQ-58A Valkyrie uncrewed aircraft, each of which will cost a (comparatively) paltry $3 million.

The Valkyrie comes from Kratos Defense & Security Solutions as part of the USAF's Low Cost Attritable Strike Demonstrator (LCASD) program. The 30-foot uncrewed aircraft weighs 2,500 pounds unfueled and can carry up to 1,200 total pounds of ordnance. The XQ-58 is built as a stealthy escort aircraft to fly in support of F-22 and F-35 during combat missions, though the USAF sees the aircraft filling a variety of roles by tailoring its instruments and weapons to each mission. Those could includes surveillance and resupply actions, in addition to swarming enemy aircraft in active combat.

Earlier this month, Kratos successfully operated the XQ-58 during a three-hour demonstration at Elgin Air Force Base. AACO [the Autonomous Air Combat Operations team] has taken a multi-pronged approach to uncrewed flight testing of machine learning Artificial Intelligence and has met operational experimentation objectives by using a combination of high-performance computing, modeling and simulation, and hardware in the loop testing to train an AI agent to safely fly the XQ-58 uncrewed aircraft, Dr. Terry Wilson, AACO program manager, said in a press statement at the time.

Its a very strange feeling, USAF test pilot Major Ross Elder told the New York Times. Im flying off the wing of something thats making its own decisions. And its not a human brain. The USAF has been quick to point out that the drones are to remain firmly under the command of human pilots and commanders.

The Air Force took heat in June when Colonel Tucker "Cinco" Hamilton "misspoke" at a press conference and suggested that an AI could potentially be induced to turn on its operator, though the DoD dismissed that possibility as a "hypothetical thought exercise" rather than "simulation."

"Any Air Force drone [will be] designed to allow commanders and operators to exercise appropriate levels of human judgment over the use of force," a Pentagon spokeswoman told the NYT. Congress will need to pass the DoD's budget for the next fiscal year before construction efforts can begin. The XQ-58 program will require an initial outlay of $3.3 billion in 2024 if approved.




I still remember the exact moment when it happened. I was up late, researching for a crucial paper due the next week. The screen froze and then  the dreaded signal loss icon. At first, I thought it was just my dorm's temperamental WiFi acting up again. Little did I know, the entire University of Michigan was about to embark on an epic tech-battle that would see its brightest minds working non-stop.

By 2 a.m., my Twitter feed was ablaze with frustrated students across the campus. No one could connect to the university's networks. Calls to the IT helpdesk went unanswered. The situation was grave.

Daylight came, and with it, an announcement. The University of Michigan was facing one of the most massive internet outages in its history. A complex glitch had crippled its connectivity, affecting research, administration, and student activities.

The scene at the University's IT center was something out of a high-stakes movie. I managed to catch up with Dr. Laura Hastings, head of the university's IT department, who was leading the charge. "We have some of our best people working around the clock," she shared with an air of determination. "But the outage is more intricate than anything we've seen before. It might take days."

Days! As hours turned into days, the campus adjusted to a new, albeit temporary, reality. Students reverted to pen and paper. The libraries overflowed with frantic learners, trying to salvage their assignments. Professors switched gears, adjusting their curricula to accommodate the digital hibernation.

But amidst the chaos, there were pockets of light. Groups of students began hosting offline study groups. Musicians played impromptu concerts in the quads. And in an unexpected twist, a campus-wide game of 'capture the flag' emerged, with hundreds participating, finding joy in the simplicity of a pre-digital age.

Meanwhile, at the IT center, nights turned into mornings and coffees into energy drinks. With every hour, the team inched closer to a solution. The commitment was unwavering.

Three days in, just as the sun was setting, a cheer erupted from the IT hub. The news spread like wildfire. The internet was back! The campus rejoiced, and a newfound respect for the IT department was born.

It was a wake-up call for the University of Michigan, highlighting our dependence on technology. Yet, it also underscored the resilience of a community determined to adapt, thrive, and most importantly, support one another.

For those of us who lived through the great 'UMich Internet Outage of 2023', it was an unforgettable testament to human spirit, camaraderie, and the indomitable Wolverines' spirit.
Asturias

Educacion abrira el 1 de noviembre el plazo del concurso-oposicion de estabilizacion para el cuerpo de maestros
"DARZIK is an out of this world sci-fi romance series." John Kelly, Detroit Free Press

Named an Amazon HOT NEW RELEASEin More Ways Than One!

New York, NYDARZIK: Mates of the Alliance has won the Pinnacle Book Awards in Science Fantasy category. For more than 40 years, The Pinnacle Book Awards have honored some of the finest books published by a wide variety of Publishing Houses, Small Presses, Independent and Self Publishers. The Pinnacle Awards are based on book content, quality, writing style, presentation and cover design.

Fionne Foxxe Farraday's smoldering hot Mates of the Alliance series is a slow and sensual follow-up to the steamy kickoff found in the first installment. DARZIK: Mates of the Alliance draws on and develops the hints of connection between Darzik and Emily into a full-blown relationship while weaving themes of healing, hope, and commitment into the tapestry of Farraday's sweeping intergalactic romance series.

Fionne Foxxe Farraday, an experienced physician working in pulmonary and critical care medicine, combines her firsthand experiences in the ICU and experiences of military family members who served in WWII and Vietnam to create her tantalizing and creative sci-fi romance series. Farraday created the Mates of the Alliance novels as a means of fighting cabin fever during a period of enforced medical leave due to a personal health crisis. Even after returning to her ICU duties, Farraday found her writing to be a therapeutic way to deal with the daily stresses of medical care during the midst of a pandemic.

"For as long as I can remember, I've always enjoyed writing, but I never actually dreamed I'd be a writer," recalls Farraday. "Initially I was just writing for myself, but eventually I began reading my writing to my late husband and friends. They enjoyed listening and encouraged me to see where the story would go. Now, even though I work full time as a physician, I write when I get home and on weekends. It's wonderfully catharticand has helped me greatly in the past two years of stress as a medical professional in the middle of a global pandemic. It has been such a rush to see my work publishedit sometimes feels like a dream!"

Watch the DARZIK book trailer at https://bit.ly/DARZIK_Trailer





"Fionne Foxxe Farraday is a writer who creates a science fiction fantasy so closely tied to reality that the concept succeeds on every level. DARZIK, the second book of her Mates of the Alliance series, continues the journey into a fascinating and delightful world! Very highly recommended." Grady Harp, Amazon Hall of Fame Top 50 Reviewer, 5-stars

With Earth still recovering from the devastating alien attack that drained the oceans and set the planet ablaze, the Luperans have remained to continue recovery efforts and establish ties on behalf of the Galactic Alliance. As relationships between Humans and the Luperans continue to deepen,

Darzik has a front row seat to the Bond between his friend Kairn and his Mate, Daria. This puts him in close proximity to Emily, Daria's friend, whose dreams he begins to share. Only Emily's dreams are anything but peaceful  years before she survived a devastating sexual assault, which led her to change her name and guard her heart to protect herself from future hurt. Yet now Emily/ "Mikka" has witnessed the love between Daria and Kairn. Seeing their Bond and the ways that they care for each other reawakens thoughts and desires that she had thought long buried. Darzik senses the pain and fear behind the walls she has built, but can he wait patiently and earn Mikka's trust? Can Mikka muster her courage, let down her guard, and take her life back? And when a potentially catastrophic geological event sends Darzik on dangerous mission, will he return to Mikka and the growing Bond between them?

"I've been living in the Mates of the Alliance world for a while," shares Farraday. "It seems like every book becomes my favorite while I'm writing it, but I have a real soft spot for DARZIK. In this story, Emily has been through something horrific which altered the course of her life. She is a survivor and doesn't see herself be a victim. Most of this book is her journey to reclaim her life and how Darzik is there for her through it all as her staunchest cheerleader, the one who sees her bravery and supports her as she steps forward into a new life."

"Fionne Foxxe Farraday continues her "out of this world" sci-fi romance series with DARZIK, the second installment in her Mates of the Alliance series. DARZIK follows the journey of Emily, a survivor of sexual assault, as she grows closer to Darzik, the commanding officer of the Luperans.This is an extraordinary story of healing, restoration, and trusta heartwarming (and steamy!) exploration of hope. Highly recommended." John J. Kelly, Detroit Free Press, 5-stars

"We live in a very tumultuous and uncertain world," says Farraday. "Hope gets us through - even when it is buried pretty deep, it's there. We need to find it, hang onto it, and nurture it. I hope this book will help readers do that, giving them a happy ending that will help them hold onto hope that it is possible to heal from even horrific events. Often the help of family and friends are what ultimately see us through."

"In DARZIK: Mates of the Alliance, Farraday has once again penned another slow-burn romance, in which she torments readers with the torturously slow unfolding of the relationship between Mikka and Darzik, a tantalizing literary foreplay that will leave readers on the edge of their seats." Jessica Tofino, Educator and Writer, 5-stars

With DARZIK, Farraday continues to build and expand the emotionally resonant cast of characters from her Mates of the Alliance world, demonstrating how the bonds of love and friendship can be found in unexpected places and reminding readers of the power of true love and deep commitment. If you like your sci-fi stories filled with smoldering romantic heat and creative banter, Mates of the Alliance might be just the series for you!

DARZIK: Mates of the Alliance, ASIN: B0C63FR6HZ is available on Amazon and the author's website: https://matesofthealliance.com/

About Fionne Foxxe Farraday: Fionne Foxxe Farraday is a medical professional working in pulmonary and critical care medicine. She is the author of the award winning KAIRN and DARZIK, the first two installments of the Mates of the Alliance, an epic new sci-fi romance series. With her background in medicine and military family members, Farraday's books are a salute to all the medical and military personnel whose sacrifices allow us to do what we do. A mother, grandmother, and animal lover, Fionne Foxxe Farraday lives in Cookeville, TN.

Media Contact: For a review copy of DARZIK: Mates of the Alliance or to arrange an interview with Fionne Foxxe Farraday, contact Scott Lorenz of Westwind Communications Book Marketing at scottlorenz@westwindcos.com or by phone at 734-667-2090. Reach Lorenz on Twitter @abookpublicist
Fairfield, MT (59436)

Today

A mix of clouds and sun. High 36F. Winds SSW at 5 to 10 mph..

Tonight

A few clouds. Low 24F. Winds SW at 10 to 15 mph.
Banks must do more to help farmers get through the financial storm affecting all enterprises, the Ulster Farmers' Union (UFU) has said.

A mix of rising input costs and falling returns with no signs of any early improvement is affecting many farming businesses, it said.

Farmers facing financial difficulties "often feel alone, but that this is certainly not the case now", the union warned.

It stressed this was why farming families needed the reassurance that banks would work with them to get through this crisis.

David Brown, UFU president, said the issue was "as serious a financial situation as many farmers can remember".

"The current market prices are unsustainable and once again, the primary producer is taking the brunt of the price squeeze," he warned.

"The industry has always had a good and a positive relationship with the banks and farmers have been valued and profitable customers for generations.

"That is why the banks need to do more to respond to this crisis, particularly as the nights drawing in confirms more costly times are on the way for farm businesses."

An increasing number of calls from farmers are ringing the union, with the UFU saying it was "depressingly clear there are problems across the industry on farms of all sizes and enterprises".

Global dairy markets remain difficult due to ample global supplies of dairy products and weaker demand, particularly from China.

Market assessments for a better final quarter to 2023 now look wide of the mark by a long way.

Meanwhile, beef and sheep prices have been and remain poor, while input costs continue to rise.

Against this background, the UFU said banks should engage with farmer customers in a discussion around what products are available to help ease cash flow problems.

The UFU will be engaging with banks and other credit providers to ensure farmers are properly supported over the coming months," Mr Brown said.

"This is an approach that will head off potentially even more difficult months ahead for farmers and the banks  a clear case of it making sense to talk."
Farmers have launched a new food hub based in south Devon which is specifically targeting small producers who are looking to scale up their businesses.

Founded by farmers with a sustainability and regenerative commitment, the new South Devon Food Hub, located on a working farm near the River Dart, has launched.

The idea specifically targets small food and drink producers who are looking to scale up and have greater connections to the local community.

Its launch comes at a time when consumers are buying products which are locally sourced and are sustainably and ethically produced.

There has been a resurgence of interest in artisan food and drink, however, for the producers it is a time of a wide range of challenges.

The hub's co-founder, Julie Dennis, said: We are keen advocates of buying locally, both to support our local community and also to reduce our carbon footprint.

"In a discussion with Greg Parsons from Sharpham Cheese, who is also the chair of Food Drink Devon, the idea of an all-artisan local food producers centre was suggested.

"Where better than on a commercial farm where some of the raw ingredients could also be grown?

The hub aims to provide a space where food and drink businesses can come together in a collaborative environment, enabling them to support each other.

Ms Dennis said that, fundamentally, a community has been created: "We have spoken to many small business owners who say they can feel quite isolated at times, so we feel there is a greater need for what we are trying to offer here.

The hub's farmer founders are hoping to provide a communal area to support the wider food and drink community.

The communal area will include offices, a space to hot desk, a meeting and educational space, a commercial kitchen and micro-units for start-up businesses.

Two local businesses, Devon Distillery and Orchard Drinks, have already moved into the hub, with Sharpham Cheese moving in during the early part of 2024.
A sheep sector scheme is encouraging the public to enjoy the qualities of native breed sheep meat as Love Lamb Week soon gets underway.

British Heritage Sheep is a scheme that celebrates the tastes and provenance of British native sheep breeds, as well as the wider benefits they bring to the countryside.

And with this year's Love Lamb Week looming, the scheme wants consumers to try some of the UKs native and lesser-known breeds.

Bob Kennard, one of the directors of British Heritage Sheep, explains that not all sheep meat tastes the same.

"The main factors affecting the flavour are the age of the animal, its breed and to some extent what the animal eats," he said.

"These factors give the meat of different breeds distinctive eating experiences, highly prized in past generations.

"The difference in flavour is evident between some breeds such as the iconic Herdwick that grazes the Lake District fells and the Ryeland of Herefordshire, one of the oldest of the established native breeds."

Despite more than 80 native and other sheep breeds being recognised in the UK the varied flavours that these can deliver to consumers are rarely acknowledged.

Mr Kennard said that sheep meat was one of the last undifferentiated foods, adding: "We all know about the many types of cheese, apples, breeds of beef and so on.

"But retailers rarely inform consumers about the breed of sheep meat, nor do they explain where and how it was reared, nor offer meat of differing ages.

The British Heritage Sheep initiative aims to change this by working to increase the awareness and promotion of the ABC of sheep meat  A for the age of sheep, B for the breed, and C for the countryside/region it has been farmed.

The National Sheep Association (NSA), which backs British Heritage Sheep, said it would like to see the UKs native breeds identified and celebrated.

The body's chief executive, Phil Stocker said: Love Lamb Week is a great opportunity to champion the UK sheep sector and that includes promoting the delicious product of some of the UKs native and lesser-known breeds.

This Love Lamb week NSA and the British Heritage Sheep scheme would like to see the UKs native breeds identified and celebrated."
  ,            Attica Group
Dolly Parton turned down tea with Catherine, Princess of Wales to promote her rock album.

Dolly Parton was too busy with her '9 to 5' to fit in tea with a royal

The 77-year-old music legend was gutted to have to skip meeting with the 41-year-old royal - who is the wife of future king Prince William - but her promotion schedule for her star-studded LP 'Rockstar' was too jam-packed to fit in tea, even with royalty.

Speaking to Claudia Winkleman on BBC Radio 2, she spilled: This time, Lordy, I even got invited to have tea with Kate.

And I felt so bad I couldnt even go! They had all this stuff set up.

However, she's hopeful to be invited again.

Dolly continued: And one of these days Im going to get to do that That would be great!

The '9 to 5' hitmaker wasn't willing to give up promotion opportunities, adding: She [Catherine] wasnt going to promote my rock album, so I had to say no."

The 'Jolene' hitmaker previously performed at the late Queen Elizabeth's Silver Jubilee in 1977, and many years later, she admitted to being petrified of curtsying incorrectly.

She told Insider: Even though you have to do the protocol, you have to bow and all that, I could tell that she didn't care about that. That's just something she had to do.

"And if somebody made a mistake, it was okay."

Despite being "scared to death" of mucking it up, Dolly found the monarch to be very warm, very sweet.

Dolly added: Just meeting the Queen of England, just to meet a queen, it was amazing."
Donald Trump's family "knows hes not going to jail".

Donald Trump claims to be the victim of a witch hunt

The 77-year-old billionaire has been accused of trying to overturn his electoral defeat in 2020 - but his family aren't worried at all about the prospect of him going to jail.

A source told PEOPLE: "Everyone knows hes not going to jail. No one is worried."

Trump's daughter Ivanka Trump and her husband Jared Kushner has largely remained silent amid the controversy.

However, the married couple aren't hiding away from the drama, either, and they have been regularly spotted together in Miami in recent weeks.

The insider shared: "She's all over the place down here, always out and about.

"They're definitely not hiding. They live right on the beach. They seem like they don't have a care in the world."

Earlier this month, Trump claimed to be the victim of a political "witch hunt".

The billionaire businessman - who served as the 45th US President between 2017 and 2021 - took to social media to rubbish the allegations and to also question the integrity of the legal process.

Trump - who still plans to run in the next US election - wrote on Truth Social at the time: "So, the Witch Hunt continues! 19 people Indicated tonight, including the former President of the United States, me, by an out of control and very corrupt District Attorney who campaigned and raised money on, I will get Trump. And what about those Indictment Documents put out today, long before the Grand Jury even voted, and then quickly withdrawn? Sounds Rigged to me! Why didnt they Indict 2.5 years ago? Because they wanted to do it right in the middle of my political campaign. Witch Hunt! (sic)"
Raksha Bandhan Gifts For Her

1. Bright Quartet Baked Eyeshadow Palette from Kiko Milano

2. Highlighter Palette from Makeup Studio

3. New range of Smartwatch from Chumbak

4. Vegan-friendly fashion accessories from FOReT

5. Trapezia Tote from Zouk

6. Limited edition personalized electric toothbrush from Perfora

7. Neon collection from Colorbar

8. Monoprint Shelly Satchel from Lavie

9. Night Kiss luxury gift box from The Love Co.

10. 2-in-1 Eyebrow & Face Trimmer from Winston

11. Tresna Collection from Caprese

12. Cheesecake Sundae from Baskin Robbins

Raksha Bandhan Gifts For Him



13. Denim Rakhi from Gargee Designer

14. Daily Detox Face Wash from Skeyndor

15. Rakhi Assorted Gift Set from VAHDAM

16. Premium Gift Box from Fang

17. Customised pants from The Pant Project

18. Nicobar Collection from Nasher Miles

19. Smartone Series Beard Trimmer from VEGA

20. Sustainable Gifting from The Yellow Dwelling

21. Rakhi Store from Amazon

22. Rakhi from GIVA

23. Fragrances from Kastoor

Image: Shutterstock, the festival that celebrates the beautiful bond between siblings, is just around the corner. It's that time of the year when sisters tie the sacred thread of love, Rakhi, around their brothers' wrists, and in return, brothers shower their sisters with thoughtful gifts. If you're on the hunt for the perfect, look no further. We've curated a list of ten heartwarming gift ideas that will make this Rakhi extra special for you and your sibling. Whether your sibling is a foodie, a tech enthusiast, a fashionista, or an adventure seeker, we have got them all covered.Kiko Milanos Bright Quartet Baked Eyeshadow Palette features four vibrant baked eyeshadows suitable for both wet and dry application. You can use the four shades individually or blend them together to create your desired look. The palette offers a combination of matte and pearl finishes, providing you with versatile options for classic and comprehensive eye makeup.Rs 1990In line with the current makeup trends dominated by highlighters, Make Studios two exquisite highlighter palettes features five captivating shade combinations. Pink Diamond Palette, specifically, showcases an array of five flawless pink hues, a perfect and cute gifting option.Rs 4990The Chumbak Smartwatch offers seamless integration with smartphones through its dedicated app, ensuring real-time notifications for calls, messages, and other app alerts. With its remote camera control functionality, taking the perfect selfies or group photos has become effortlessly convenient. With over 100 customizable watch faces, a lightweight design with a 1.83-inch HD display, and comprehensive 24/7 health tracking capabilities, including monitoring menstrual cycles, blood oxygen levels, heart rate, and blood pressure, theRs 2499This Raksha Bandhan, gift ethically from FOReT, a premier sustainable vegan-friendly fashion brand rooted in nature. With a focus on simplicity, diversity, and sustainability, their collection boasts stylish wallets, laptop bags, handbags, and jewelry, making impactful fashion statements. Embracing a planet-first mindset, they prioritize natural, cruelty-free fibers, offering a unique gifting option that aligns with eco-conscious values. Choose FOReT to celebrate this bond with timeless, bold, and responsible fashion choices.Rs 999 onwardsThe tote bag features a spacious main compartment that offers ample room to carry all your essentials. Whether you're heading to work, running errands, or going on a weekend getaway, this bag can accommodate your belongings with ease. It can hold everything from books and notebooks to a tablet, catering to your various needs. Crafted using a blend of vegan leather and the unique prints on jute khadi fabric, this tote combines functionality with a modern aesthetic.Rs 1,799This Raksha Bandhan, delight your sibling with Perfora with Limited Edition Electric Toothbrush. Available in two stunning colors, Aqua Marine and Ruby Red, these toothbrushes are more than just functional. Perfora takes personalization to the next level by offering the option to have your loved ones name or a meaningful quote printed on the handle. It's a gift that combines style, technology, and personal touch.Rs 1499This season, neon is the style sensation, and it's captivating everyone, including fashion icons. Now, it's your chance to join the neon trend with your siblings! Our collection showcases the striking 'Bold and Beautiful' Tote Bag, a statement piece adding a vibrant touch to any outfit, perfect for the trendy and colorful sibling. But there's more - the revamped 'Lips n Lashes' Box Pouch, available as a set of two keeps essentials fabulously organized. For the finishing touch, try the the 'Lips n Lashes' small pouch a pocket-sized neon charm!Rs 749 onwardsThe Lavie Monoprint Shelly Satchel is a blend of elegance and practicality that will surely delight your sister. With its sleek design, monogram printed premium texture, and two compartments, the Shelly Satchel offers both style and functionality. Multiple pockets ensure organized storage, while bottom feet enhance its durability. The detachable sling strap adds comfort and versatility, making it suitable for various occasions like work, travel, and daily use. Make her day even more special with a trendy handbag that carries all her essentials while reflecting your thoughtfulness.Rs 5,299Rakhi is a time to celebrate the bond between siblings, and a spa hamper provides your sibling with an opportunity to relax and pamper themselves. It's a gift that encourages them to unwind and destress. This hamper is made from natural ingredients, including sunflower seed oil and vitamin E, focusing on moisturizing and softening the skin. The self-care spa gifts for your loved one are infused with Lavender essential oils, which naturally soothe the body and mind. It's the perfect scent to achieve complete relaxation and have the ultimate spa experience. The Love Co. bath set includes everything you need to pamper yourself at home.Rs 1,598Gifting grooming tools like a face trimmer can enhance someone's confidence by providing them with a means to focus on self care. Consider the Winston 2-in-1 Eyebrow & Face Trimmer, which delivers salon-like precision for edgy eyebrows and painless facial hair removal, eliminating the need for painful waxing or threading. The trimmer's 3D cutting technology effortlessly removes stubborn and fine hair with smooth circular motions. Plus, it offers the flexibility to switch between both heads as needed for your grooming preferences.Rs. 1,794Tresna Collection by Caprese, a harmonious fusion of Western style and Kashmiri embroidery craftsmanship offers four types of bags: Business bags, Backpacks, Slings, Cross-body, and Totes, available in Black, Blue, Red, Yellow, and Maroon. Each piece in this collection embodies the rich heritage of Kashmir's embroidery, reflecting generations of artistry and tradition. Caprese strikes a perfect balance between classic techniques and modern design, resulting in spacious and functional handbags suitable for various occasions, from formal events to casual outings. Elevate your outfit with these handbags that seamlessly blend heritage and innovation.Rs 1899 onwardsIndulge in delectable cheesecake sundaes from Baskin Robbins with four enticing flavors: Lotus Biscoff, Mango, Nutella, and Strawberry. Discover the delightful ice cream rocks in flavors like Mississippi Mud and Cotton Candy. And for a unique twist, savour ice cream pizzas are available in two delicious options: Pralines 'n Cream and Cookies 'n Cream. These sweet treats are perfect for Rakhi gifting.On requestThefrom Gargee designer, features handcrafted designs which uses organic materials and biodegradable elements, ensuring a special bond that doesn't harm the planet. Each Rakhi tells a unique story of care and consciousness. Choose a Rakhi that not only strengthens your bond with your loved ones but also contributes to a greener tomorrow.Rs 550 onwardsCrafted to efficiently eliminate dirt, excess oil, and impurities from your skin, this facial cleanser is an essential inclusion in your daily skincare regimen. Enriched with natural elements such as green tea extract and aloe vera, it not only cleanses but also calms and nourishes your skin, guarding against breakouts and imperfections. Its mild formulation effectively clears out pores, leaving your skin feeling supple, silky, and rejuvenated. The face wash is said to be suitable for all types of skin.Rs 1,590Enjoy Indias one of the most loved tea variety, the Original Masala Chai, bundled with an artisanal rakhi crafted by Craftizen and an aromatic, enduring Phy perfume to elevate the festive spirit.Rs. 999.00Fang Platinum Gift Box is a celebration of smiles and sibling bonds that radiates elegance and functionality. Within this premium gift box lies the quintessential oral care experience. It's a gift that encapsulates the essence of comprehensive oral hygiene, offering a holistic approach to oral wellness. Carefully curated, it brings together cutting-edge products to craft a ritual of health and self-care. The premium gift box has Fang S1 Electric Toothbrush, Fang n-HA Toothpaste, Fang Charcoal Mint Floss, plus, a Travel. This gift box truly symbolizes the gift of a radiant smile and a commitment to oral health.Rs 4,990When it comes to gifting, whats better than a stylish wardrobe? A custom-made wardrobe. The Pant Projects wide range of custom-made pants comes in choices of wool, poly-viscose, cotton, chinos, knits and linens. Whether your brother is a pants or a shorts guy; theyve got you covered. Their collection of pants ranges from dress pants, cotton chinos, cargo pants, drawstring joggers and power-stretch knit pants; a choice for every purpose. They also offer free alterations, shipping, and consultations with a personal stylist.Rs 2990 onwardsCelebrate Raksha Bandhan with the gift of hassle-free travel and style through the Nicobar Collection's Light Weight Hard Sided Cabin Luggage. This meticulously crafted luggage is the perfect companion for weekend getaways or international travel, reflecting the thoughtful bond you share with your sibling. The outer material's Polypropylene construction ensures durability without weighing them down, much like the unwavering strength of your relationship. The iron telescopic handle represents the support you offer each other, making maneuvering comfortable. The 360-degree spinner wheels echo the seamless connection you share, providing effortless mobility. The included number lock symbolizes the protection you provide as siblings. This luggage not only embodies the practicality of gifting but also mirrors the depth of love and care you express on this special occasion.Rs 3990 onwardsThe VEGA SmartOne Series S1 beard trimmer (VHTH-30) offers precision grooming with its Smart Memory Function, Digital Display, and skin-friendly titanium blade. It has three-speed modes, a quick 5-minute charge for 10 minutes of use, and two comb attachments with 40 length settings. With cord and cordless options, IPX 7 waterproofing, and a travel pouch, it's the ideal grooming tool for your lifestyle.Rs 1799Celebrate the enduring bond between siblings with The Yellow Dwelling's thoughtfully curated Rakhi gifts. From scented candles to stylish cushions, trendy coasters, sustainable grass mats, elegant table runners, and napkins, our range has something for every sibling. These gifts reflect the essence of your special bond, adding elegance, warmth, and unity to your Rakhi festivities.Rs 200 onwardsAmazon Fashion introduces an extensive array of sibling bonding gifts in collaboration with Ferrero Rocher Chocolates. Visit the Rakhi Store on Amazon.in to discover a diverse range of fashionable and beauty-forward gifts. Customize Rakhis, explore clothing, skincare, beauty products, shoes, luggage, watches, jewelry, handbags, and more from top brands like GIVA, Akhilam, Vero Moda, Fastrack, Plum, Daniel Wellington, Lavie, BIBA, and others. Don't miss out on great value offers while you shop from the comfort of your home. Celebrate the sibling bond in style.On requestGIVA's Rakhi range includes personalized rakhis, Lumba rakhis for sisters-in-law, convertible rakhis as pendants, Bhaiyya-Bhabhi combos, unique Rakhi Boxes, kids' rakhis, and stylish bracelet rakhis. They offer a diverse selection to celebrate the special bond between siblings.Rs 699 onwardsLooking for a unique and inclusive gift option? Consider Kastoor, a fragrance brand that's perfect for anyone. Their scents strike a beautiful balance between contemporary and traditional, making them an ideal gift. The lotus, a key flower in Indian philosophy, symbolizes creation and the transcendence of consciousness. It's a thoughtful gift that represents the beauty of resilience and growth, making it a meaningful choice for your loved ones.Rs 2699
IN FARAHS WORDS



A testament to the transformative power of embracing the phoenix within, Farahs story is one of resilience, hope and the perfect source of solace for anyone looking to heal.

An entrepreneur since 2009, Farah Ahmad describes herself as a risk taker  someone who believes that power is right within us and, once you unleash that power, everything else will follow.Children quickly outgrow their clothes. Farah knew this as a fact, especially after handling newborn clothes day in and out since 2013, as the owner of Sweet Root, a toy and baby store in Bengaluru. Parents and caregivers inevitably develop a deep attachment to these tiny garments and find it difficult to let go of them, causing them to hold onto them indefinitely. On an ordinary day, an idea struck Farah like a bolt of lightning: why not upcycle these sentimental garments into memory quilts? And, just like that, Soul Quilts was born.The 2021 pandemic, however, brought an unexpected and devastating turn of events. Farah lost both her brother and mother to COVID-related complications just four weeks apart. Despite the overwhelming circumstances, she found the courage to channel her grief into something positive. Inspired by the idea of creating a quilt out of her loved ones clothes, she embarked on a journey that eventually led to the creation of Bereavement Quilts. Crafted from the clothes of those who have passed on, these quilts are a physical embodiment of cherished memories, a beautiful way to honour and remember those who have left an indelible mark in our lives. They evoke a sense of nostalgia, offer a source of comfort, and provide a way to hold on to the memory of loved ones forever.At first, I couldnt find the courage to launch Bereavement Quilts. As we contemplated diversifying beyond memory quilts, doubts began looming in my mind; I was uncertain about whether such a concept would be acceptable in our culture where people usually donate the clothing of their loved ones after they pass away.Like any other bootstrapped enterprise, we faced numerous challenges. The initial hurdles included finding the right manpower and ensuring the quality of each and every quilt, regardless of the clothes received. Despite these obstacles, not giving up and taking baby steps kept me afloat.Image courtesy - Farah AhmadAlso Read: Behind The Scenes With Pawga, Indias First Pet Yoga Experience
The European Union's (EU) trade balance has shifted to a surplus in the second quarter (Q2) of 2023 after six consecutive quarters of deficit, according to the latest trade data by Eurostat. There was a small surplus of 1 billion, marking a drastic improvement from the 155 billion deficit registered in Q3 2022, which was the highest deficit level since 2019.

The change has been attributed to declining energy prices. Exports for the quarter saw a dip of 2 per cent, while imports declined by a more significant 3.5 per cent. A substantial 15.6 per cent drop in energy imports and a 10.9 per cent decline in raw material imports, compared to Q1 2023, contributed to the shift in trade dynamics.

The EU trade balance returned to a surplus level of 1 billion in Q2 2023 after six quarters of deficit, showing a recovery from a 155 billion deficit in Q3 2022, as per Eurostat. The turnaround has been primarily attributed to a decline in energy prices. Exports fell by 2 per cent, while imports saw a more significant reduction of 3.5 per cent.

While most export sectors faced declines, energy and raw materials experienced the most substantial decreases, plummeting 22.5 per cent and 9.3 per cent respectively. In terms of energy trade balance, the deficit improved from minus 115.3 billion in the first quarter to minus 100 billion in the second quarter of 2023, as per Eurostat.

Fibre2Fashion News Desk (DP)
Gaurav Gupta is one courtier who requires no introduction. The fashion connoisseur has had an expansive legacy over the years that has traversed home ground and international territories. His clientele have been known to sport his silhouettes at prestigious events like the Oscars, Festival de Cannes, the Emmy Awards, and the Tony Awards. Futuristic in its approach but rooted in Indian aesthetics and traditions, these are the brand aesthetics he wants to showcase to the world. Over the years, he has designed for not only Bollywood superstars such as Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, Priyanka Chopra Jonas and Deepika Padukone, but his career also boasts some of the biggest International stars he has designed for, with names such as Cardi B, Jennifer Hudson, Lizzo, and Megan The Stallion, to name a few. The ace designer speaks about the inspiration for creating this world, making India proud far and wide on global levels and what makes his brand a beeline for stars to grace such esteemed events.

This distinctive aesthetic has evolved over the years through a combination of my personal experiences, creative influences and a deep passion for pushing the boundaries of fashion. I am grateful for my experience at Central Saint Martins, where I learnt how to truly express myself through art.

I am glad to be part of The Elephant Family and support them in their efforts towards animal welfare and protection. It was a wonderful experience to see what the organisation does to help save our hurting ecosystem. I particularly remember meeting Dame Vivian Westwood. I spent three hours talking to her about climate change and initiatives to combat it.

The gown was our interpretation of Sandro Botticellis famous painting Birth of Venus, with the shell-like structure behind the shoulder symbolising Venuss rise from the scalloped shell. It took 20 days and over 100 craftspeople to create what came to be a symbol of hope, birth and beauty after the tough times the world had faced during COVID 19.



What are your takeaways on the benefits of having an Indian brand showcased at international events and runways?



I think there is this brown movement happening across the globe. The world is finally standing up and noticing that India is not just about colourful embroidery, elephants, and the Taj Mahal. I think this adds a lens to how the world perceives us and theres something for everyone to take awayfrom designers to artists, students, entrepreneurs, etc. Global expansion and recognition are major takeaways from such events as the fact that we are now retailing at Neiman Marcus and Moda Operandi, dressing global culturists across the world, etc.

I think it all started five years ago with Saweetie. And then Megan Thee Stallion wore us for The Oscars and from then on it started like wildfire. Cardi B then wore us for the first time for her music video No Love, Jennifer Hudson wore us for Producers Guild, and then we started gaining momentum, one after the other, after we started working with Maison Bose.Its been over 18 years that I have carved the world of Gaurav Gupta, which is Indian at its core and boundless in its form. We have mastered the art of merging indigenous Indian construction and embellishing techniques with our idea of the future. Whether its the traditional textiles, or ancient Indian embroideries like zardozi, aari work, nakshi, dabka, etc., we have used all that to invent and reinvent our future primitive aesthetic.It is always a collaboration when you design such icons. And inculcating our Indian roots is something that the brand already has in its DNA.We made our debut at Paris Couture Week in January this year. The experience has been exhilarating. Its truly been magical. We showcased our spring-summer 2023 couture collection called Shunya. We wanted to make it a sustained activity and continue the magic. We then showcased our autumn-winter couture 2024 collection called Hiranyagarbha and I feel we are just getting started.
Jacqueline Fernandez is undoubtedly the best on-stage performer of India. Her incredible skills and stunning moves have left audiences spellbound, both on stage and on the big screen. Her incredible talent is evident in unforgettable renditions of chart-topping songs such as 'Jumme Ki Raat', 'Lat Lag Gayee', 'Rakkamma', 'Paani Paani', 'Genda Phool', 'Chittiyaan Kalaiyaan' and many more, which have garnered immense love and appreciation from everyone. The magnetic stage presence of the gorgeous actress and dazzling energy have always treated to an exceptional experience of delight and awe-inspiring performances to the audiences.

The recent "Rajasthan Premier League Performance" was yet another shining moment in her illustrious career. Jacqueline's sizzling performance set the stage on fire, and her electrifying presence was met with thunderous cheers from the audience. It is without a doubt that she is truly a force to be reckoned with in the world of dance, and her performances continue to entertain and delight fans across the globe.

An awe-leaving glimpse of the outstanding performance at the "Rajasthan Premier League Performance" in Jaipur has been shared by Jacqueline Fernandez on her social media. The actress donned an elegant royal ensemble, exuding sheer grace and poise, while her enthralling performance left the spectators spellbound. The dance performance spread like wildfire on various social media platforms and emerged as a hot topic of discussion. He asks, "Rajasthan Premier League @t20rpl "

Throughout her career, this talented actress has never failed to mesmerize audiences with her incredible dance routines, whether it be at prestigious events like Filmfare, the Da-Bangg tour, or her most recent appearance at IIFA. Her performances are simply captivating and always leave fans in awe. It's no wonder that she is always the center of attention and often becomes the highlight of award ceremonies. Time and time again, she has proven her talent and left a lasting impression on the viewers who have witnessed her stunning stage performances.

Meanwhile, on the work front, Jacqueline will be next seen in 'Fateh' alongside Sonu Sood in her future lineup.
Shane Nigam's And Sreenath Bhasi's Ban Gets Lifted: In a recent turn of events, the ban imposed on actors Shane Nigam and Sreenath Bhasi by the Producers' Association has been officially lifted.

The decision comes after a period of non-cooperation by producers due to allegations of misconduct on set and disagreements over remuneration demands made by the actors.

The Producers' Association had initially banned the duo in response to reported instances of misbehaviour during their work on various projects. Sreenath Bhasi, in particular, was pointed out as the primary contributor to the ban, with his uncontrollable actions being cited as the key reason.

However, a significant development occurred when Sreenath Bhasi took steps to address the situation. The actor penned a formal apology letter to the Producers' Association, expressing remorse for his past behavior. Notably, Bhasi also took a proactive approach by offering to refund the advance payment he had received from two producers. These producers had previously expressed their unwillingness to collaborate with the actor.

Within the apology letter, Sreenath Bhasi made a solemn commitment to uphold professionalism and decency on set moving forward. He conveyed his determination to cease all forms of indecent conduct, signalling his dedication to fostering a positive and collaborative work environment.

Shane Nigam, the other actor affected by the ban, was also granted the possibility of reinstatement by the Producers' Association. This decision indicates a willingness on the part of the organisation to consider a fresh start for both actors after their temporary suspension.

Shane Nigam's RDX In Theatres Running Successfully

Meanwhile, the film "RDX," in which Shane Nigam is one of the stars, is running successfully in theaters. "RDX" also features Anthony Varghese (Pepe) and Neeraj Madhav, and it hit theatres on August 25.

This adrenaline-pumping entertainer follows the story of three youngsters, with Shane Nigam, Antony Varghese, and Neeraj Madhav in prominent lead roles.

This high-octane thriller promises to keep you on the edge of your seat with its adrenaline-pumping action sequences. As the Onam fervour reaches its crescendo, "RDX" guarantees to provide an explosive cinematic experience that's sure to leave you exhilarated.
On the occasion of Onam, Pan India star Prithviraj Sukumaran who is gearing up the release of his next 'Salaar' with director Prashanth Neel, gave us an insight into his Onam celebration with his family. The actor celebrated the festival of Onam in the true spirits of love, togetherness.

Sharing the pictures with his fans on social media Prithviraj Sukumaran wrote " Onam.  I guess a forced rest has its own advantages. "

Dressed in a traditional "mundu" or "dhoti," the actor looked cheerful and in the perfect mood to celebrate this auspicious festival.

On the work front, Prithviraj Sukumaran has a busy year ahead with the release of 'Salaar' , 'Bade Miya Chote Miya', 'Aadujeevitham'
MBABANE - A civil servant employed by the Ministry of Education and Training has been arrested for allegedly stealing laptops valued at over E160 000.

Gcina Frans Dlamini (35) of Mvutjini under Chief Zembe is employed by the ministry as a handyman. A handyman is a person employed to do occasional domestic repairs and minor renovations. He is alleged to have stolen six laptops, which were being kept at the ministrys storeroom in Mbabane on August 3, 2023. The exact value of the gadgets, according to the charge sheet is E166 200. He yesterday moved an urgent bail application at the High Court, which is, however, being met with resistance from the prosecution. In his application, the accused submitted that on August 23, 2023, he was arrested by members of the Royal Eswatini Police Service (REPS), who subsequently charged him with the offence of theft.

Attention

He brought it to the attention of the court that he was currently detained at Sidwashini Correctional Facility. Dlamini submitted that pending finalisation of his case, he was desirous to be admitted to bail. It was further his contention that there were sufficient grounds warranting the High Court to release him on bail upon such terms and conditions it deemed fit and appropriate. I am innocent of the charge against me in that I never committed same. I am confident that I will be acquitted at the conclusion of my trial, since I never committed the offence that I am charged with and I have a bona fide defence to the charge, argued the accused. Throughout his bail application, Dlamini insisted that he never stole the laptops as alleged by the Crown in the charge sheet. I never at any stage stole the items as I have no access to the storeroom where they were kept. I am employed as a handyman and I am grateful for my job, which helps me to provide for my family and I respect my employer, averred the accused.

Bail

Dlamini told the court that in the event he was admitted to bail, he would not abscond trial, breach any of his condition or skip the country. In a verge to convince the court that he was not a flight risk, Dlamini submitted that he was a born and bred liSwati who had a family and a home in the Kingdom of Eswatini. He claimed that he did not have any ties outside the jurisdiction of the court. There is no likelihood that if released on bail I may interfere or attempt to influence or intimidate the Crowns witnesses. I do not even know who they are. Further, I wish to clear my name with my employer so that a relationship of trust can exist once more,submitted Dlamini. It was further his submission to the court that, in the event he was released on bail, there was no likelihood that he might endanger the safety of the public or any particular person. Dlamini claimed that there was also no likelihood that he might commit any offence, undermine or jeopardise the objectives or proper functioning of the criminal justice system in the event he was released on bail. In motivating his bail application, the civil servant went on to bright it to the attention of the court that he was a sickly person and was being treated for tuberculosis.

Conditions

He argued that the conditions at the Correctional facility, where he was currently detained were not conducive for a person in his state of health. The accused claimed that, at the Correctional facility, he was made to sleep on a mat on the floor, where he was exposed to the cold weather conditions. I have three minor children who are school-going and who are dependent on me for support and maintenance. My continued incarceration is greatly prejudicial to them as they will not have anyone to provide for their needs, he argued. He entreated the court to released him on bail as his continued incarceration would result in him losing his job as he would be absent from work. The prosecution is yet to file its papers outlining its reasons why it will not be in the interest of justice to release Dlamini on bail.
Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah update: Raksha Bandhan is one of the most special festivals in India and all the siblings are celebrating their mischievous but lovable bond. Just like the siblings all around the nation, Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah actress Veronica Verma is also gearing up for the festival.

The TV diva, in an exclusive conversation with Filmibeat, shared her plans for the day. Guess what? She has planned something special for the festival. The talented actress will be traveling to the national capital to celebrate Raksha Bandhan 2023 with her family members.

"Raksha Bandhan has always been one of my favourite festivals as it excites me the most. This year, I am going to Delhi to celebrate the festival with my family. I have purchased a beautiful rakhi for my brother and am excited to receive the gift from him," she exclusively told us.

"During every festival, my mother prepares a scrumptious meal and we all enjoy the whole day by just sitting, eating, talking and going out shopping," she added.

Further talking about brothers, Veronica said, "I am truly blessed to have such great, loving and protective brothers. They are more like my friends and have always supported me through my thick and thins. Since childhood, I used to get up early on this day, get up ready and then prepare a pooja thali. My fondest memory would be getting all of us together in one place."

On the professional front, Veronica was last seen in Tere Ishq Mein Ghayal, which also starred Karan Kundrra, Reem Shaikh and Gashmeer Mahajani. She has worked in hit shows like Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah, Santoshi Maa - Sunayein Vrat Kathayein and Ajooni, to name a few.

Keep watching this space for more updates.
Happy Birthday Nagarjuna Photo Credit: Internet

Akkineni Nagarjuna, the Tollywood's 'Manmadhudu' entered into another exciting year as he turned 64 on August 29. The veteran only ages like a fine wine and gives out major fitness and business goals to not only to his contemporaries and friends but also to the youngsters.

Nagarjuna entered the industry as the son of Telugu film industry's iconic figure, Akkineni Nageswara Rao. He was ridiculed for his face, voice, and physique in the early days, but the actor was determined. He stands where he is today making everyone envious and casting a magic spell on the people around him.

Five Facts About Nagarjuna

Nagarjuna & His Versatile Image

Nagarjuna attempted various genres of films and delivered superhits. He surprised his fans and movie buffs with his choice of films. From love stories like Majnu and Geethanjali to trend-setting action film like Siva and mythological dramas like Annamayya and Sriramadasu, Nagarajuna aced it all.

Forever Young & Romantic

While all other heroes of his age are doing roles that are age-appropriate, Nagarjuna continues to romance young heroines convincingly. In his recent releases Manmadhudu 2 and Ghost, the veteran acted in liplock scenes with Rakul Preet Singh and Sonal Chauhan. Nobody had any complaints.

Akkineni's Manam

Nagarjuna is probably the only hero to act with his father and two sons in a film. In Manam, written and directed by Vikram K Kumar, Nagarjuna along with his sons Naga Chaitanya and Akhil; father Nageswara Rao acted together as a father and son. Manam also features Akkineni Amala, and Samantha, ex-wife of Naga Chaitanya, making it a proper Akkineni film.

Unique Record Of Working With Mahesh Batt & Mani Ratnam In Their Only Telugu Films To Date

Nagarjuna, who has become a heart-throb by then, starred in love stories that were cult classics. Legendary filmmaker Mani Ratnam's only Telugu film Geethanjali, and Bollywood filmmaker Mahesh Bhatt's only Telugu film Criminal. Do we need to say more about the success range of these two films and their ever-green music albums?

Nagarjuna As A TV Host

Nagarjuna donned the role of a Telugu Television reality show host with the most popular show 'Meela Evaru Koteeswarudu.' He ran the show successfully for a couple of seasons. He then began hosting the Bigg Boss Telugu from season 3.

Happy Birthday Nagarjuna Photo Credit: Gallery

Naa Saami Ranga

The veteran announced his next, a mass action drama titled Naa Saami Ranga. On the occasion of his birthday, the filmmakers released the title glimpse. The movie is aiming to hit the screens for Sankranthi 2024.

Nagarjuna's Work Front

The actress will soon begin hosting the brand new season of the Telugu television's biggest reality show, Bigg Boss Telugu Season 7 on the Star Maa channel. His latest film titled 'Naa Saami Ranga' was announced on the occasion of his birthday.
Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - August 28, 2023) - The Canadian Out-of-Home Marketing and Measurement Bureau (COMMB) has announced their AI-Powered Chat Generative Pre-trained Transformer (GPT) called OOH-GPT (Beta), which focuses solely on supporting and educating agencies, operators, and brand marketers on out-of-home.

This new AI-powered system opens up a world of possibilities, offering valuable insights, data-driven recommendations, and personalized solutions to industry professionals. OOH-GPT is aiming to reshape the out-of-home (OOH) landscape, empowering marketers and advertisers to make more informed decisions and achieve greater success in their OOH campaigns, all while gaining invaluable knowledge on the out-of-home landscape that they can continue to apply day-to-day.





COMMB

Farrokh Mansouri, Head of Data at COMMB, developed the OOH-GPT tool with the primary objective of education. "Out-of-home advertising is an environment that is changing rapidly - and it's not something everybody knows about or understands. I attended a data summit recently and I presented to a group of data scientists about the out-of-home industry and what is happening from a research, data, and measurement perspective. Many individuals weren't aware of the capabilities of this space. Needless to say, I had a line-up of many data specialists waiting to discuss more about what out-of-home has to offer. It was really eye-opening." He continues, "This is what prompted OOH-GPT. A place that individuals can go to learn more about out-of-home and gain a deeper understanding of the OOH medium and its capabilities."

Amanda Dorenberg, President of COMMB, states, "OOH-GPT can provide information on various aspects of OOH advertising such as its definition, types, advantages, effectiveness, targeting options, measurement, and best practices. While COMMB boasts a range of objectives, many are centered around educating brand marketers about the advantages and capabilities of out-of-home advertising. This is precisely where OOH-GPT comes into play to assist us. We are thrilled to launch the beta version of OOH-GPT, and we cannot wait to watch the tool evolve with the objective of supporting and educating those interested in the out-of-home advertising space."

To interact with OOH-GPT (Beta), visit www.chat.commb.ca and learn more about the out-of-home advertising industry.

About COMMB

COMMB is the national not-for-profit organization for the Canadian out-of-home (OOH) industry. Our membership base is comprised of advertisers, agencies, programmatic tech-stacks, and OOH companies, large and small. COMMB is responsible for the collective marketing and measurement efforts for the OOH industry, developing proprietary audience measurement methodologies for a variety of OOH media formats, and ensuring the voice of OOH is at the forefront of media via broad marketing and communications initiatives. www.commb.ca

For more information please contact:

Lara Menzies

Director, Marketing & Partnerships, COMMB

lmenzies@commb.ca

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/178743


Mr. Azri Azerai, Executive Chairman of Malaysian Genomics

PETALING JAYA, Malaysia, Aug 29, 2023 - (ACN Newswire) - Malaysian Genomics Resource Centre Berhad, a leading genomics and biopharmaceutical specialist, recorded a revenue of RM2.23 million for the 4th quarter ended 30 June 2023. This represents a decrease from RM6.33 million in the corresponding quarter of the preceding year, owing to a deliberate pivot from vaccines to cell and gene therapy products, focusing more on genetic screening initiatives.For the quarter under review, the Group recorded a loss before tax (LBT) of RM9.98 million compared with a profit before tax (PBT) of RM2.97 million in the same quarter of the preceding year. The change is largely attributed to the impairment of receivables amounting to RM7.54 million and the Group's expansion and product development efforts in the fast-moving consumer good (FMCG) market. The Group will continue to implement stringent credit control policy as they move forward with their initiatives, particularly with Rejuvium.For the current year-to-date, MGRC reported a revenue of RM8.36 million, a decrease from RM28.36 million in the previous year. A LBT of RM13.59 million was registered, largely due to similar factors affecting the quarterly results.While the financials mark a transitional phase for the Group, MGRC remains robust and adaptable, focusing on both the short-term improvements in revenue and long-term sustainability through product development and market expansion.Azri Azerai, Executive Chairman of Malaysian Genomics, expressed optimism about MGRC's future, stating: "MGRC achieved higher revenue in the current quarter as compared to the preceding quarter's revenue of RM0.68 million, mainly generated from cell and gene therapy products. Our state-of-the-art BSL-2 cell processing lab, cGMP approved by MOH for production of cell and gene therapies, illustrates our technological advancement. Hence, we foresee that we will obtain higher revenue from cell and gene products in the next quarter.""Furthermore, we continue to engage with private hospitals and the Ministry of Health in Malaysia to improve access to our cell and gene therapy products. Recent partnerships and our focus on novel ingredients and finished products will target a wide market of use such as for cosmeceuticals, wound healing, general wellness and genetic-based fitness improvement programs that reflect our innovative drive and commitment to enhancing healthcare solutions and more," continued Azri.Malaysian Genomics Resource Centre Bhd: 0155 [BURSA: MGRC] [RIC: MGRC:KL] [BBG: MGRC:MK], http://www.mgrc.com.my/Source: Malaysian Genomics Resource Centre BhdCopyright 2023 ACN Newswire . All rights reserved.
EDISON, N.J., Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Orion Innovation (Orion), a leading digital transformation and product development service firm, is excited to announce a strategic partnership with Philippines-based Cebuana Lhuillier Bank in its transformative journey towards financial inclusion and modernized banking services. Cebuana Lhuillier Bank, which serves 6 million Filipinos, signed the deal with Orion to implement the advanced Temenos core banking platform to revolutionize its operations and expand its outreach to unbanked and underserved Filipinos with an aim to grow more than 11 million customers over five years.

Cebuana Lhuillier Bank plays a pivotal role by offering credit and savings accounts to individuals, micro, small, and medium enterprises, contributing to personal and business financial growth. As over half of the Philippines' 113 million population resides in rural areas, banks like Cebuana Lhuillier Bank play a vital role in meeting the financial needs of remote and underserved communities.

Orion's suite of digital services and technology solutions empowers banks to modernize legacy systems, design innovative products, and tap into new business opportunities. With a robust presence in the Philippines, India, and Singapore, Orion Innovation is embarking on an ambitious growth journey in the APAC region.

Jean Henri Lhuillier, Cebuana Lhuillier Bank Vice Chairman, commented, "Cebuana Lhuillier's commitment to financial inclusion remains steadfast. In a nation where access to reliable financial services is paramount, this collaboration strengthens our resolve to provide better services, products, and opportunities for Filipinos to create meaningful change."

Dennis Valdes, Cebuana Lhuillier Bank President, added, "The financial industry is continuously evolving due to rapid technological advancements. Our clients' needs are changing, and it is our responsibility to not only meet but exceed those expectations. This alliance marks as a testament to our commitment to embrace innovation and redefine the banking experience for our valued customers."

Mr. Anoop Gala, Global Head of Financial Services at Orion Innovation, added, "We are thrilled to embark on Cebuana Bank's core modernization program in the Philippines. Orion's partnership goes beyond technology, driving positive change by enhancing banking services and promoting financial inclusion in underprivileged communities, fueling economic progress in the APAC region."

About Cebuana Lhuillier Bank

Cebuana Lhuillier Bank is one of the most dynamic rural banks in the Philippines. We offer an inclusive financial ecosystem that enables Filipinos to fulfill their needs. Geared towards financial inclusion since 1998, Cebuana Lhuillier Bank has already established six branches and continues to expand its reach through over 3,000 Cebuana Lhuillier branches nationwide.

About Orion Innovation

Orion Innovation ("Orion") is a leading digital transformation and product development services firm with 12 major delivery centers spread across the Americas, APAC, and EMEA. Rooted in engineering and design thinking, along with a unique combination of agility, scale and maturity, its team of approximately 6,400 associates helps Fortune 1000 companies improve efficiencies, enhance customer experiences, and develop new digital offerings. For more information, please visit www.orioninc.com.

Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2195242/Orion.jpg

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MADRID (dpa-AFX) - Consumer sentiment survey data from Germany is due on Tuesday, headlining a light day for the European economic news. At 2.00 am ET, the market research GfK publishes Germany's consumer confidence survey data for September. The forward-looking sentiment index is forecast to rise to -24.3 from -24.4 in August. In the meantime, Statistics Sweden is scheduled to issue final GDP data, retail sales and foreign trade figures. At 2.45 am ET, France's statistical office INSEE is set to issue monthly consumer sentiment data for August. The consumer confidence index is seen unchanged at 85.0. At 3.00 am ET, the Czech Statistical Office releases second estimate for GDP data. The statistical office is expected to confirm 0.1 percent sequential growth for the second quarter. Also, retail sales data is due from Spain. At 4.00 am ET, Austria's manufacturing Purchasing Managers' survey results are due. At 8.00 am ET, Hungary's central bank announces its monetary policy decision. The bank is likely to hold its base rate at 13.00 percent. 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.
Pensana Plc - Update on Sampling Results from the Coola Exploration Licence

PR Newswire

LONDON, United Kingdom, August 29

29 August 2023

THIS ANNOUNCEMENT CONTAINS INSIDER INFORMATION

Pensana Plc

("Pensana" or the "Company")

Update on Sampling Results from the Coola Exploration Licence

Pensana is pleased to report on analytical results received from sampling at the Sulima West and Benge Novo targets completed in 2022. Both targets occur within the Coola Exploration License (No059/02/01/T.P/ANG-MIREMPET/2020) located 40 kilometres north of Longonjo. Results recently received include:

analytical results from the soil sampling programme conducted over the Sulima West carbonatite rare earth element (REE) target in October of last year;

whole rock geochemistry and analytical results for the significant apatite-maghemite-monazite outcrop at Sulima West; and

XRD, whole rock geochemistry and analytical results of Benge Novo alkaline complex deeply weathered clays for bauxite and ionic clay potential.

Sampling highlights include:

soil sampling at Sulima West clearly identifies an area of approximately 500 x 300 m (~15 hectares) with > 2% TREO in soils with a core zone of high-grade soils reporting >4% TREO;

whole rock geochemistry results from the apatite-maghemite-monazite sample returned 22% P 2 O 5, 26.8% CaO, 40.5% Fe 2 O 3 and 0.7% TREO; and

clays at Benge Novo returned grades of up to 1600 ppm TREO.

Exploration activities are scheduled to continue throughout 2023 with geophysical surveys (magnetics/radiometrics/gravity) commissioned for Q3 2023, and further mapping, trenching, sampling and mineralogical studies scheduled for the remainder of the year.

Exploration Manager, Grant Hayward, commented:

"We are extremely happy with the results of the soil sampling over Sulima West which identified an area of roughly 15 hectares with greater than 2% TREO in soils. The soil anomaly includes the Trench 1 where very encouraging REE results were sampled ( 14 Nov 2022: Exploration Results from Coola Exploration License ).

It is suspected that the REE enriched regolith represents the near surface expression of a deeply weathered supergene enriched carbonatite as is the case at Longonjo. In addition, high grade, regolith hosted, residual apatite has been identified at Sulima West with grab samples of over 20% P2O5 reported.

Ground geophysical surveys including magnetics/radiometrics and gravity commenced in August 2023 with resulting data to be utilised for further target generation. Further trench and pit sampling of the soil anomaly and prospective geophysical targets will take place later in the year once the geophysical data has been processed and interpreted."

Sulima West Soil Sampling

Two hundred and thirty-eight soil samples were collected on a 50 m x 50 m sample spacing over an area of 650 m x 800 m covering the area of identified historic trenches and surroundings at the Sulima West target. Individual soil samples are from 10-20 cm below surface, were sieved to <0.5 mm, bagged and dispatched for ICP-MS analysis at IGEO Laboratories, Luanda. QA/QC samples were submitted, and the laboratory results were within acceptable limits.

The soil sampling clearly identifies an area of approximately 500 m x 300 m (~15 hectares) with >2% TREO in soils within which a zone with >3% TREO is delineated.

Figure 1: Sulima West REE target - TREO% in soils with grade contours

Five of the historic trenches excavated during the 1970's are included within the >2% TREO soil anomaly. Due to safety issues such as possible wall collapse only the southernmost trench (Trench 1) has been logged and sampled to date. Trench 1 comprises 68 m of iron/manganese enriched lateritised regolith and was sampled at 2 m intervals returning values of between 0.3 and 9.7% TREO, with an average of 3.4% TREO over 68 meters reported. Pit 1, which occurs within the >4% TREO in soil anomaly, returned 4.3% TREO over a vertical distance of 6 metres.

The remaining 4 historic trenches within the anomaly will be cleaned and made safe and will be sampled during late 2023. A large portion of the >4% TREO in soil anomaly occurs to the SE of the historic trenches and this area will be trenched and sampled during 2023.

Apatite-Maghemite-Monazite Sample

A representative sample of the 800 m2 outcropping secondary, supergene apatite-maghemite-monazite regolith has been submitted for Mineral Liberation Analysis at SGS laboratories, South Africa. This work is currently in progress.

Initial whole rock geochemistry results received from SGS returned 26.8% CaO, 40.5% Fe2O3, 22% P2O5, 2.4% TiO2 and 0.7% TREO. These results indicate that approximately 50% of the rock is apatite. Further work is being done to delineate the extent of this rock type the area having the potential to host a significant phosphate resource.

Benge Novo Clay Sampling

Whole rock geochemistry and analytical results of clays collected from the deeply weathered Benge Novo alkaline complex were received. Clays were collected to determine possible bauxite and ionic clay potential. The clays showed a low Al2O3 content (<18%) with no bauxite minerals identified, however, the clays typically contain up to 1600 ppm TREO. The REE distribution shows a typical LREE distribution.

XRF reports 65% SiO2, 18% Al2O3, 4.4% K2O and 3.5% Fe2O3. XRD work reported 46% quartz, 23% microcline, 26% kaolinite and 5% phlogopite.

The Benge Novo complex is vast (10 km minimum in diameter) and soil covered. Further mapping, sampling and geophysics is required to effectively assess and explore this prospective alkaline complex.

About the Coola Exploration Project

The Coola Exploration Project located in Angola, approximately 160 km east of Port of Lobito covers an area of 7,456 square kilometres. The Coola Exploration Project consists of three highly prospective targets namely the Sulima West carbonatite, the Benga Novo alkaline complex and the Coola carbonatite. The three highly prospective targets are located between 40 and 100 kilometres north of Pensana's Longonjo project.

Pensana, through Coola Mining LDA in which Pensana holds a ninety percent interest, was granted the Coola exploration license in May 2020 and has since completed multiple field programmes in 2020, 2021 and 2022 involving geological mapping, rock chip sampling, trench and pit sampling, stream sediment sampling, initial radiometric surveys, close space soil sampling and assaying confirming rare earth mineralisation across all three carbonatites/alkaline complexes.

Sulima West is a 4.2-kilometre diameter alkaline carbonatite ring complex with a corresponding high radiometric

response occurring immediately to the south of the Benga Novo intrusion and to the west of the Sulima ring structure. 10 historic trenches each of about 90 metres in length located in the western segment of the structure were identified and corresponded with the highest radiometric response. Twenty-two initial reconnaissance samples were extracted from the trenches in 2021. During this sampling, it was observed that the trenches were excavated into an iron/manganese-rich laterite very similar in appearance to the rare earth element laterite developed over the Longonjo carbonatite. Results of this initial sampling returned significant values for rare earth oxides with up to 10.6% TREO encountered in the laterite and averaging 4.2% TREO. Manganese oxide values of up 15.9% MnO and averaging 7.2% MnO were also reported. In Q2 2022, further trench and pit exploration activities were conducted at the Sulima West target, reporting initial rare earth grades of up to 9.7% TREO averaging 3.4% TREO over 68 metres at surface in the trench and up to 5.2% TREO, averaging 4.3% TREO over 6 metres at surface for the pit. The presence of highly anomalous TREO of >10%, the anomalous radioactivity, outcropping fenite, as well as significant manganese and supergene apatite, are all supportive of a carbonatite at depth.

The Benga Novo intrusion is interpreted as a very large caldera occurring immediately to the north of the Sulima West intrusion. It is regarded to be at least 8 to 10 kilometres across and is characterised by flat, deeply weathered soils with a solitary alkaline granite outcropping in the south eastern part. The identification of a significant, clay dominated, deeply weathered regolith over parts of the main Benga Novo intrusion may additionally be prospective for the occurrence of ionic clay hosted REE deposits. The Benga Novo intrusion is believed to be vast (approaching 100 km2) and the potential for alkaline silicate related mineralisation such as REE, Nb, U and Zr is deemed positive.

The Coola carbonatite is a roughly circular body, measuring about 900 metres across as inferred from the limited outcrops of carbonatite and fenite. The circular shape suggests that the Coola carbonatite may be a ring dyke or breccia pipe, similar to the carbonatite at Longonjo. Rock chip sampling of the 0.9 km diameter Coola carbonatite ring dyke returned values of between 0.6% and 4.9% TREO (average 2.6%). Soil geochemistry over the covered carbonatite returned values of between 0.37% and 13.18% TREO (average 3.21%). Mineralogical studies of the Coola carbonatite identified the rare earth mineral to be bastnasite, which occurs as discrete veins, veinlets, and segregations within the carbonatite. Soil geochemistry over the fluorite-rich zone at Coola identified an area of 13 000 m2 with average fluorite values of 17% (Calcium Flouride) CaF2. Economic grades of REE mineralisation in the form of bastnaesite has been located in banded dolomitic carbonatites at the Coola carbonatite.

About Angola

The Angolan government has implemented a modern mining code with an attractive fiscal regime and a range of investment incentives including tax exemptions and customs duty exemptions. Over the past decade it has also made significant investments in business-critical infrastructure such as railways, ports, bridges, and roads.

The Lobito Corridor railway, the historic 1739 km umbilical cord to the strategic minerals mined in the Copperbelt straddling the DRC and Zambia, is now under concession management by the Trafigura/Mota-Engil led Lobito Atlantic Corridor consortium. Alongside the management of Lobito Port, it is the latest under the roll-out of government privatisation initiatives. Angola currently enjoys a power supply surplus following mega hydro-electric projects and expansion of the national grid.

Angola's economic profile has improved significantly over recent years, with the country's public debt falling from 131% of gross domestic product in 2020 to 66% in 2022. The IMF has projected that the economy will grow by 3.5% in 2023.

Following an upgrade by Moody's in late 2021, all three major rating agencies raised their credit assessment of the country's sovereign debt in 2022, with Fitch and Moody's upgrading the country outlook from neutral to stable in the second half of the year.

The information contained within this announcement is considered by the Company to constitute inside information as stipulated under the Market Abuse Regulations (EU) No.596/2014. Upon the publication of this announcement via a Regulatory Information Service, this inside information will be considered to be in the public domain. The person responsible for arranging for the release of this announcement on behalf of the Company is Paul Atherley, Chairman.

- ENDS -

For further information, please contact:

Shareholder/analyst enquiries:

Pensana Plc

Paul Atherley, Chairman IR@pensana.co.uk

Tim George, Chief Executive Officer

Rob Kaplan, Chief Financial Officer
Novatron Fusion Group, a Swedish company that aims to revolutionize the field of fusion energy production, announced today the successful closure of its seed round, raising EUR 5 million. The round was led by Climentum Capital, in syndication with Industrifonden, Santander InnoEnergy Climate Fund, and with renewed investments by KTH Holding and EIT InnoEnergy.

STOCKHOLM, Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The world's energy demand is growing rapidly, and we need to meet it without reliance on fossil fuels. Fusion power has the potential to provide a limitless supply of emissions-free, reliable, safe, and affordable energy for all. Fusion power would provide a much-needed solution to some of humanity's greatest challenges: the growing need for energy and accelerating climate change.

Today, stabilizing superheated plasma is a significant roadblock to commercializing fusion reactors. The NOVATRON concept is an innovative reactor solution for stable magnetic plasma confinement that aims to overcome this hurdle. The NOVATRON concept is based on the original idea by the Swedish inventor and entrepreneur, Jan Jaderberg. It's being developed by world-leading physicists, engineers, and academics at the new Novatron Lab, housed within the former Alfven Laboratory at KTH Royal Institute of Technology in Sweden.

Peter Roos, CEO of Novatron Fusion Group, commented: "We are thrilled to receive such strong support from our investors. This will enable us to further deliver on our mission of transforming the energy landscape and accelerating the transition to a more sustainable future. We are now one step closer to enabling fusion energy at scale."

Novatron Fusion Group aims to develop economically viable fusion energy in the 2030s. The new capital will be used to build pre-commercial prototypes. The company's unique solution aims to increase reliability and reduce the current capital and operational cost profiles of its fusion reactors, relative to alternative solutions.

Malin Carlstrom, General Partner at Climentum Capital commented: "With the exponential speed of technological advancements in the last decade, fusion is now moving from being a research project to an industrialization phase ambition. Hence, we should not only consider the possibility of continuous fusion taking place but also the competitiveness of the calculated cost of energy. The NOVATRON concept shows prospects of success in both areas."

Mala Valroy, Investment Manager at Industrifonden, commented: "At Industrifonden, we believe in making science-backed, scalable investments that can shift the needle for society, and Novatron Fusion Groups technology has the potential to do just that. We are impressed by their innovative approach and confident in their ability to revolutionize energy production together with renewables. We are excited to support Novatron Fusion Group on their journey and look forward to witnessing the transformative effects of their technology."

In business and strategic partnership to advocate global systematic change and acceptance of fusion energy

In December 2022, Novatron Fusion Group publicly announced its business and strategic partners. KTH Royal Institute of Technology in Sweden will provide its extensive knowledge of plasma physics and a well-equipped laboratory, access to academic research, and its international network. EIT InnoEnergy will likewise contribute with its pan-European and well-established network within industry, academia, and public institutions. Novatron Fusion Group is a member of the Fusion Cluster in the UK and the Fusion Industry Association (FIA) in the USA.

For more information, please contact:

Linda Nyberg, CCO, Novatron Fusion Group AB

+46 76-006 19 15 or linda.nyberg@novatronfusion.com

Find more media at tinyurl.com/3zke9f7t

About Novatron Fusion Group

Novatron Fusion Group AB is a Swedish company headquartered in Stockholm. We are developing the NOVATRON concept - an innovative reactor solution for stable magnetic plasma confinement.

Partnerships include KTH Royal Institute of Technology (www.kth.se) and EIT InnoEnergy (www.innoenergy.com).

About Climentum Capital

Climentum Capital is a climate tech fund that invests in European early-stage companies with the potential to reshape industries to make them more low-carbon and circular. As an EU Article 9 fund, Climentum's mission is to provide catalytic capital for these companies to pass key inflection points, achieve full scale and contribute substantially to mitigating climate change. Read more at www.climentum.com.

About Industrifonden

Industrifonden is Sweden's Venture Capital Fund looking for unique, scalable innovation that has a meaningful impact on our society. Industrifonden manages more than SEK 5 billion and invests in early-stage companies, from seed to A-round funding with a reach across the Nordics. The investment focus includes specialized technologies and businesses within Deep Tech, Life Science, and Transformative Tech. Industrifonden has an evergreen structure that allows a long-term focus on value creation. Read more at industrifonden.com.

About Santander InnoEnergy Climate Fund

Santander InnoEnergy Climate Fund is an initiative based on a collaboration between Santander Alternative Investments and EIT InnoEnergy, whereby SAI is the portfolio manager and InnoEnergy is the technical advisor; Banco Santander is the anchor investor. It is a venture capital fund investing in early-stage companies (seed through Series B) working on technologies related to the energy transition and covering sectors such as circular economy, energy storage and efficiency, transport and mobility, smart buildings, cities and grids, hydrogen, AgTech, etc. The fund will invest mainly in companies coming out of InnoEnergy's ecosystem.

About KTH Holding

KTH Holding is a Swedish state-owned company investing in very early-stage companies from KTH. We invest and help researchers and students to build companies from their ideas, research results, and intellectual property rights (e.g. patents). In this way, we put KTH research and education into use for the benefit of society. Read more at kthholding.se/en.

About EIT InnoEnergy

EIT InnoEnergy operates at the centre of the energy transition and is the leading innovation engine in sustainable energy, bringing the technology and skills required to accelerate the green deal and Europe's decarbonisation goals.

Recognised globally as the most active sustainable energy investor and one of the largest climate tech and renewable energy tech investors, EIT InnoEnergy backs innovations across a range of areas. These include energy storage, transport and mobility, renewables and sustainable buildings and cities - leveraging its trusted ecosystem of 1200+ partners and 29 shareholders. The 180+ portfolio companies are on track to generate EUR 72.8 billion in revenue and save 1.1 gigatons of CO2e annually by 2030.

EIT InnoEnergy is the driving force behind three strategic European initiatives which include the European Battery Alliance (EBA), the European Green Hydrogen Acceleration Centre (EGHAC) and the European Solar Initiative (ESI).

EIT InnoEnergy was established in 2010 and is supported by the European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT), an independent EU body set up in 2008 to drive innovation and entrepreneurship across Europe. Today, EIT InnoEnergy has offices across Europe and in Boston, US. Visit www.innoenergy.com for more information

The following files are available for download:

https://mb.cision.com/Main/22717/3825221/2257987.pdf 20230829 NFG Financing https://news.cision.com/novatron-fusion-group-ab/i/artist-s-rendering-of-the-novatron-reactor-design,c3210237 Artist's rendering of the Novatron reactor design

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/novatron-fusion-group-closes-seed-round-of-eur-5-million-accelerating-the-transformation-to-commercial-fusion-power-301912052.html
LONDON (dpa-AFX) - Bunzl plc (BZLFY.PK, BNZL.L), on Tuesday, announced that it has signed an agreement to acquire a business in Poland, and also acquired a business in the Netherlands. The acquisition in Poland is the Group's first in the country and, upon completion, will increase the number of countries that Bunzl operates in, to 32. In July, Bunzl signed an agreement to acquire Safety First, one of the largest distributors of Personal Protective Equipment products in Poland to a range of end markets. This is Bunzl's anchor acquisition in Poland, achieving its first entry into the country, which has been a key target for expansion. Safety First generated PLN 121 million in revenue in 2022. Also in July, Bunzl acquired EcoTools.nl, a Netherlands-based specialist online distributor of tool accessories and industrial consumables to customers across the Benelux region. In 2022, this high-growth business generated revenue of EUR 20 million with very high double-digit margins. Frank van Zanten, Chief Executive Officer of Bunzl, said: '.Our acquisition momentum has been strong this year and our total committed spend year-to-date is now more than 350 million. We have significant headroom to continue to self-fund value-accretive acquisitions and our pipeline remains active.' 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.
Geneva, Aug. 29, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Agreement reached over short-term financing of CHF 20 million - to be replaced by the proceeds of a CHF 25 million convertible bond

Ongoing commitment to provide further financial resources to fund GAM's operations as a going concern

EGM to be held or on around 27 September 2023

GAM's board to propose shareholders to approve the appointment of new directors proposed by NewGAMe and stand down once they are elected

The investor group comprised of NewGAMe SA and Bruellan SA, which controls approximately 9.6% of the issued share capital of GAM Holding AG [GAM:SWX] ("GAM"), announces the conclusion of successful discussions with GAM. It has been agreed that Rock Investment SAS ("Rock"), the controlling shareholder of NewGAMe, will provide short-term financing of CHF 20 million to GAM to cover the company's immediate liquidity needs. The short-term financing will be replaced by the proceeds of a convertible bond to be issued by GAM in the amount of CHF 25 million, subject to approval of shareholders at an EGM to be held on or around 27 September 2023. Both NewGAMe and Rock have also confirmed to GAM their intention to secure sufficient financial resources to fund GAM's operations as a going concern.

At the EGM, shareholders will also be asked to vote on the appointment of new directors proposed by NewGAMe. The current GAM board will propose that shareholders approve the election of NewGAMe's candidates and has agreed to stand down once NewGAMe's directors have been elected. NewGAMe plans to announce its candidate for CEO of GAM over the coming days.

It has been agreed that NewGAMe's leadership team will visit GAM's offices in London and Zurich to meet with employees.

Antoine Spillmann, CEO and Partner at Bruellan and the investor group's proposed candidate for chairman of GAM's board, said:

"As a result of our productive discussions with GAM's board and management over the past few days, we have a clear path forward. We have agreed to provide immediate funding of CHF 20 million and committed to secure additional financial resources to fund GAM's operations. We welcome GAM's decision to support our proposed directors and the agreement of the current board to step down once our candidates have been elected. Today is a pivotal step in the turnaround and enhancement of one of the industry's iconic asset management firms. We are excited by the opportunities that lie ahead and look forward to meeting with GAM's portfolio managers and client facing teams in Zurich and London today, as well as in other locations in the coming days."
BUSELENI  Some members of the electorate under Nkwene Constituency have reported alleged irregularities to the Elections and Boundaries Commission (EBC) regarding the voting in the primary elections held on Saturday.

They claimed that there was a lot of cheating that happened during the primary elections. Over 400 members of the electorate from Buseleni Chiefdom under Nkwene Constituency, in the Shiselweni Region, gathered at the umphakatsi to report to the royal kraal, EBC officials and police officers, alleged irregularities they witnessed on Saturday when the country was in the primary elections polls. The aggrieved electorate was made to fill in EBCs complaint form, which required the commission to address their grievances within 14 days. Should any irregularities be proven, any person found guilty, if found he/she had won, may face disqualification, with elections starting afresh. The matter is being addressed as a matter of urgency as it needs to be resolved within 14 days. On another note, police recorded statements from some of those who voted at Mkhondvo Polling Station yet they were not residents of the chiefdom.

Outclassing

This follows the election results under this chiefdom, which saw former Member of Parliament (MP) Sikhumbuzo Dlamini who served during the 2013 to 2018 term in Parliament, outclassing outgoing MP Vulimpompi Nhleko and Siboniso Hlatshwayo, among the eight who were nominated by over 800 and 500 votes respectively. He outclassed them with 1 394 votes, while Hlatshwayo came second with 751 votes and Nhleko got the third spot with 572 votes. One of the complaints from the aggrieved electorate was that Sikhumbuzo was not eligible to participate in elections under the chiefdom (Buseleni) as they claimed he belonged to Nkwene Royal Kraal. Notably, in the past two general elections, he would participate as a subject of Nkwene Royal Kraal, though he has a family at Buseleni.

The electorate had first gathered at Buseleni Royal Kraal after spending a night at Hlatshwayos homestead, where they were attended to by officers from Hlatikhulu Police Station as well as the EBC officials led by Returning Officer Khonelikhosi Dlamini, where they accused the former MP of not belonging to Buseleni. Why has he come this side to spoil our elections? He belongs to Nkwene and over the past election years, we have only met him in secondary elections, one voter, who asked not to be named, said. It was gathered from EBC officials that of the about 2 500 registered voters from the area, about 20 took part in the validation, where they could have spotted any anomalies related to the voters roll. When the Returning Officer Khonelikhosi explained some of the stages relating to the general elections, most of which had passed, the electorate did not seem content. We only thought that we were meant to check if our names appeared, not to check if we knew all the names appearing on the list. Even if that was thoroughly done, we cannot know everybody on the list as some have even different chief codes in their national identification cards, another voter argued.

This is just a mess and the voters roll must be revised before the secondary elections. There was a lot of foul play here, another disgruntled electorate alleged. Some of the electorate claimed they witnessed cars on the day ferrying individuals from neighbouring communities such as Kholwane, Tri-Cash, Matsapha as well as Nhlangano, from the factory shells. Some even testified that they could even identify the individuals as they knew them being residents of Matsapha for over 10 years. I know one who has stayed in Matsapha for over 10 years but voted at Mkhondvo and some even went on to fight over some money they were allegedly paid by certain individuals. I have all the evidence since we captured them as they went on to even fight over the money and some disclosed who had bought them, another aggrieved electorate claimed.

Notably, the voters whom the electorate complained about appeared in the voters roll, hence they were able to vote. Meanwhile, Hlatikhulu Station Commander Lucky Msibi invited the aggrieved electorate to record statements with the police on the matter. Msibi promised that police would investigate the matter and get advice if they could be brought before the law.

Some of the electorate flocked police vans which were at the umphakatsi to record statements as EBC recommended that only one individual must fill the form on behalf of the aggrieved residents.

Meanwhile, the MP candidate (Sikhumbuzo) said he would wait for the EBC process and together with his legal team, he was ready to respond to any allegations levelled against him, as some of these assertions were untruthful.

Residents

My legal team and I are ready for any lies and evidence that some residents of Buseleni say they have against me, most of which are not true. However, people must know that in politics, there will always be one winner and they should accept results as they are, he said. Sikhumbuzo went on to state that the accusations against him were all not true. I won the primary elections on merit and we are happy to know that EBC will investigate this matter so that everyone can see that there was no foul play, the former MP said. Meanwhile, Hlatshwayo, the Head of the Asphalt Department at Inyatsi, specialising in Civil Engineering, who was the favourite among some of the electorate and eventually came in second with 751 votes, said he didnt want to sound like a sore loser. I believe that EBC will investigate the matter, he said briefly.
CyberGhost's data highlights a significant knowledge gap on revenge porn and what to do if you become a victim, with 62% of respondents unaware of where to turn for help.

BUCHAREST, Romania, Aug. 24, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- New data from CyberGhost VPN , a leading online privacy and security provider, exposes a significant knowledge gap on revenge porn and what to do should you fall victim to this distressing and rapidly increasing crime. CyberGhost VPN is calling for increased awareness and education on revenge porn, in order to help prevent such incidents occurring in the first place and to empower victims to seek support.

Respondents unaware of how to seek help

The CyberGhost survey, carried out among a sample of internet users over 18 years old, focused on understanding attitudes towards and actions taken around revenge porn. Revenge porn is the distribution of sexually explicit images or videos without the consent of the individual depicted.

Over 20% of respondents said they knew someone who had been a victim of revenge porn, while over 8% had been a victim themselves. Strikingly, some respondents highlighted that they encountered revenge porn during their time at school, not just from individuals they had been in a romantic relationship with, but also as a deliberate strategy employed by fellow students for the purposes of bullying or causing embarrassment. In other cases the perpetrator did not actually send the explicit images, but used the threat of doing so as a method of coercion and control.

Victims who reported their experience to law enforcement received mixed responses. While some reported that they had been able to successfully bring charges against their harasser, others noted delays to proceedings and a lack of information or support.

Globally, 62% of respondents replied that they did not know what to do if they were to become a victim of revenge porn. In the US, there was an even greater lack of awareness regarding what action to take should this happen to them, with 72% of respondents saying they wouldn't know what to do.

A stronger legal stance in the US

Concerningly, 46.2% of respondents in the US were not aware that revenge porn is illegal despite the fact that nearly all 50 states have laws that outlaw nonconsensual pornography, or revenge porn. Most states make it a criminal offense to disseminate intimate images of someone if the defendant acted with intent to harm. In New York City, a law passed in 2017 goes even further, making it a crime to even threaten to send revenge porn. Victims can also go to family court and get a civil restraining order directing offenders to destroy the victims' intimate images in their possession, or face arrest if they continue to distribute them.

There are also plans to make revenge porn a federal crime through the proposed Stopping Harmful Image Exploitation and Limiting Distribution (SHIELD) Act, which would criminalize the non-consensual distribution of nude or sexually explicit images, including threatening to do so. Under the legislation, reintroduced in 2023 by U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar and John Cornyn, offenders could be imprisoned for up to five years.

The need for social change

Whilst ensuring adequate legal provision for prosecuting these crimes is important, the findings of the CyberGhost VPN survey also demonstrate a critical need for better education and support for victims of revenge porn.

A spokesperson for CyberGhost VPN said:

"The lack of awareness regarding the illegality of revenge porn and of how to seek justice if you are a victim is deeply concerning.

"Legal developments in this area have progressed, helping to provide victims with clearer avenues by which to seek justice, yet more still needs to be done socially to combat this issue. Educational initiatives emphasizing the importance of consent, digital privacy, and the legal ramifications of engaging in revenge porn can play a crucial role in helping to prevent it in the first place.

"Similarly, equipping people with the knowledge of how to better protect themselves online, including how to safeguard their personal information, use secure platforms, and navigate privacy settings effectively, is vital in helping to foster a safer digital environment for all."

Rise in revenge porn drives increased awareness of digital privacy

Despite a lack of awareness about what to do should you become a victim of revenge porn, the survey results did demonstrate that people had increased the amount of attention they paid to their online privacy as a result of the rise in revenge porn and similar malicious activities. Over 56% of respondents said their increased awareness of this type of crime had made them more cautious about their digital privacy and what they were willing to share online.

In particular, nearly 47% said that they took care not to share account logins with others, including for social media, cloud storage and other accounts and 46% said that they were consciously restricting how much they shared online, including their location, age and details about their personal life. Other measures people were using to look after their privacy online included using strong, unique passwords which they updated regularly, using encrypted messaging apps, making sure to logout of social media accounts and apps, and using privacy software including VPNs and ad-blockers.

Support for victims

The following steps are recommended for those who become a victim of revenge porn:

Gather evidence: Take screenshots of all websites or platforms where your private content is being shared, including original or manipulated images, your requests for removal, and any communication with the person responsible. This evidence will be useful for future legal action.

Take screenshots of all websites or platforms where your private content is being shared, including original or manipulated images, your requests for removal, and any communication with the person responsible. This evidence will be useful for future legal action. Request content removal: Contact the hosting site directly to request the quickest possible removal of your content. While social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter are not legally responsible for user-generated content, they typically have policies against non-consensual porn. Report your content on these platforms to have it blocked, and also ask for the removal of the images from search engine results such as Google and Bing.

Contact the hosting site directly to request the quickest possible removal of your content. While social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter are not legally responsible for user-generated content, they typically have policies against non-consensual porn. Report your content on these platforms to have it blocked, and also ask for the removal of the images from search engine results such as Google and Bing. Know your legal rights: Research the laws in your jurisdiction regarding revenge porn, defamation, copyright infringement, and invasion of privacy. For example, in the United States, the Cyber Civil Rights Initiative provides an overview of revenge porn laws by state, including information on sextortion and https://www.cyberghostvpn.com/en_US/privacyhub/sexting-revenge-porn/deepfakes.

Research the laws in your jurisdiction regarding revenge porn, defamation, copyright infringement, and invasion of privacy. For example, in the United States, the Cyber Civil Rights Initiative provides an overview of revenge porn laws by state, including information on sextortion and https://www.cyberghostvpn.com/en_US/privacyhub/sexting-revenge-porn/deepfakes. Involve law enforcement: With your evidence and legal knowledge, contact local law enforcement or consult with a lawyer to seek legal assistance in removing or deleting the content and holding the perpetrator accountable.

With your evidence and legal knowledge, contact local law enforcement or consult with a lawyer to seek legal assistance in removing or deleting the content and holding the perpetrator accountable. Consider hiring a lawyer: An experienced attorney can help navigate the legal process, protecting your rights and increasing the likelihood of achieving a satisfactory outcome. They can assist with filing necessary reports, obtaining court orders to remove the illicit content, and potentially pursuing criminal charges or civil lawsuits against the person responsible.

An experienced attorney can help navigate the legal process, protecting your rights and increasing the likelihood of achieving a satisfactory outcome. They can assist with filing necessary reports, obtaining court orders to remove the illicit content, and potentially pursuing criminal charges or civil lawsuits against the person responsible. Seek emotional support: Dealing with non-consensual porn can be traumatic, so it's important to reach out for emotional support if needed. Contact crisis helplines or therapists who specialize in sexual trauma for assistance. In the United States, the CCRI's 24-hour crisis hotline is available, and the organization also provides a directory of country-specific resources for victims outside the US. The National Domestic Violence Hotline also provides specific advice on revenge porn.

CyberGhost VPN has long been recognized as a champion of internet privacy and their Privacy Hub contains useful educational resources on many aspects of privacy and cybersecurity. Anyone who has concerns about revenge porn or other online harassment can visit the company's website: https://www.cyberghostvpn.com/en_US/privacyhub/sexting-revenge-porn/ for further advice and assistance.

Notes to Editor

About CyberGhost VPN

Founded in 2011, CyberGhost VPN is dedicated to building a future where privacy online is a basic human right. The company's VPN platform is one of the most reliable in the world, delivering a secure and private online experience to millions of people globally. Just one subscription covers and protects up to 7 devices simultaneously, and their superior network of 10Gbps servers provides customers with excellent speeds and unlimited bandwidth. With an impressive server fleet covering more than 90 countries and over 115 different locations, CyberGhost is a popular choice for those looking for a reliable VPN provider for streaming and gaming.

CyberGhost has been part of Kape Technologies since 2017. To learn more about CyberGhost, visit www.cyberghostvpn.com .

About the survey

CyberGhost's survey was carried out using the survey platform Survey Monkey in June 2023 using a global sample of 1055 people in English, French, German and Spanish. The sample size included respondents aged 18 to 65. 58% of respondents identified as female, 40% male and less than 1% non-binary and transgender. The survey asked questions relating to people's attitudes and knowledge of both sexting and revenge porn.

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EQS-Ad-hoc: Dexus Finance Pty Limited / Key word(s): Real Estate

Dexus Finance Pty Limited: Appendix 3Y - Change in Director's Interest Notice - Rhoda Phillippo



29-Aug-2023 / 09:51 CET/CEST

Disclosure of an inside information acc. to Article 17 MAR of the Regulation (EU) No 596/2014, transmitted by EQS News - a service of EQS Group AG.

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.



Dexus (ASX: DXS) ASX release 29 August 2023 Appendix 3Y - Rhoda Phillippo Dexus provides Appendix 3Y Change of Director's Interest Notice for Rhoda Phillippo The full announcement is available at www.dexus.com/investor-centre/listed-funds/dexus-dxs/results-and-reporting/asx-announcements Authorised by Brett Cameron, General Counsel and Company Secretary of Dexus Funds Management Limited For further information please contact: Investors

Rowena Causley

Head of Listed Investor Relations

+61 2 9017 1390

+61 416 122 383

rowena.causley@dexus.com Media

Louise Murray

Senior Manager, Corporate Communications

+61 2 9017 1446

+61 403 260 754

louise.murray@dexus.com





End of Inside Information

Information and Explanation of the Issuer to this announcement:



About Dexus Dexus (ASX: DXS) is a leading Australasian fully integrated real asset group, managing a high-quality Australasian real estate and infrastructure portfolio valued at $61.0 billion (pro forma post final completion of the AMP Capital acquisition). We believe that the strength and quality of our relationships will always be central to our success and are deeply connected to our purpose: Unlock potential, create tomorrow. We directly and indirectly own $17.4 billion of office, industrial, healthcare, retail and infrastructure assets and investments. We manage a further $43.6 billion of investments in our funds management business (pro forma post final completion of the AMP Capital acquisition) which provides third party capital with exposure to quality sector specific and diversified real asset products. The funds within this business have a strong track record of delivering performance and benefit from Dexus's capabilities. The group's $17.4 billion real estate development pipeline provides the opportunity to grow both portfolios and enhance future returns. Our sustainability aspiration is to unlock the potential of real assets to create lasting positive impact and a more sustainable tomorrow, and is focused on the priorities of customer prosperity, climate action and enhancing communities. Dexus is supported by more than 34,000 investors from 25 countries. With four decades of expertise in property investment, funds management, asset management and development, we have a proven track record in capital and risk management and delivering returns for investors. www.dexus.com Dexus Funds Management Ltd ABN 24 060 920 783, AFSL 238163, as Responsible Entity for Dexus (ASX: DXS)

Level 30, 50 Bridge Street, Sydney NSW 2000

29-Aug-2023 CET/CEST The EQS Distribution Services include Regulatory Announcements, Financial/Corporate News and Press Releases.

Archive at www.eqs-news.com


Clean Invest Africa Plc - 200,000 CLN Funds Receipt

PR Newswire

LONDON, United Kingdom, August 29

29 August 2023

CLEAN INVEST AFRICA PLC

("Clean Invest Africa"or the "Company")

200,000 CLN Funds Receipt

Clean Invest Africa Plc, the waste fines minerals recovery quoted company on the AQSE Growth Market, announces that, further to the announcement of 2 August 2023, the 200,000 under a Convertible Loan Note (CLN) has now been received by the investor.

The funds raised as a result of the issue of the CLN will also be used to provide additional working capital for the Company and its subsidiaries and in particular will support the initial stage of the CLAPS project with the Italian, Partner ISS International SpA, and the commercialisation of its Bulpan plant in South Africa.

Coaltech is continuing the development of its marketing and commercialisation strategy with a number of ongoing initiatives currently at advanced stages of development. A trading update will be released shortly, providing information on the key projects.

Filippo Fantechi, Chief Executive Officer of Clean Invest Africa plc and CEO of CoalTech Group, commented: "By participating in this fund raising the investor has shown confidence in the Company and its technology. The operating business, executed by commercialising its technology, continues to have bright prospects particularly through international expansion and we will update shareholders as events unfold."

ABOUT CoalTech technology ("CoalTech")

In the context of the global policy of environmental improvement, reconditioning of polluted areas and development of sustainable solutions for those industries (such as, but not limited to, coal) which have an impact in terms of environmental pollution, but which, at least for the next two to three decades, will have to continue to produce in order to sustain the demand for energy, CoalTech believes that the application of its technology, in addition to meeting the Global Environmental Improvement Policy, also effectively addresses the following problems:

(i) how to clean up/dispose of the more than 30 billion tonnes of coal dust now found worldwide as an unavoidable residue of coal mining processes, and

(ii) how to minimize the accumulation of further coal dust in those areas where coal mining ponds are still active and/or at the loading/unloading hubs of the coal trade routes such as ports and/or stations and/or in those industries that still use coal.

In other words, even if the ecological transition is making great strides, coal dusts will continue to damage the environment if they are not removed or minimised in cases where industries use coal (e.g. power plants, steel mills, etc.) and these last will takes years to complete the ecological transition with less polluting technologies, if available.

CoalTech uses the agglomeration process (pelletizing) to transform coal dust into spherical agglomerates (pellets) through the rotational and inclination forces generated in a Deep Drum Pelletizer and the amalgamation action of an organic, non-polluting agent developed in-house. The transformation process is then finalised by drying treatments to make the pellets transportable and reusable in various industrial applications.

CoalTech technology is the right balance for merging energy demand with governments' commitment to a clean world. In particular, it is a valuable vehicle for achieving goals #8, #9 and #15 of the UN 2030 Agenda combining the useful with the enjoyable. Useful because it is certainly effective in carrying out the initial reclamation of the land and/or the hubs of the trade routes and/or the coal storage areas of the power stations where tonnes of unused and environmentally harmful coal dust are still being deposited. Enjoyable because it is a business with a potential of millions of dollars as the process used does not alter the original characteristics of the coal (e.g. the calorific value and the chemical composition) and therefore the pellets produced, becoming transportable, can be sold on the market and have multiple uses, such as for example:

- be introduced into the coal market by blending with the original raw material, thus solving at the root the problem of coal dust accumulation and, in time, reducing the existing accumulation at the washing and/or storage plants

- be introduced into the circuit of those industries that use coal to produce other products such as: the steel industry to produce coke and the chemical industry for the production of ammonia, hydrogen, synthetic products such as solvents, dyes, pesticides, synthetic rubbers, explosives, plastics, medicines, and others

- originate a circular economy system as from the distillation of coal, it is also possible to obtain tar, benzol, phosphates, nitrates, sulfates, naphthalene, celluloid

- to become a raw material in the coal gasification process for the production of syngas; and

- to support, during the transition period, the less affluent populations that still live-in rural areas where the energy distribution network is not yet in place and will require years of work to make it available, so becoming a source of energy and house heating through the use of domestic stoves, already existing on the market, which, in addition to heating, can also produce a few kW useful to turn on a few light bulbs.

The Directors of the Company accept responsibility for the contents of this announcement.

ENQUIRIES :

Clean Invest Africa plc

Filippo Fantechi (Executive Director) +973 3969 6273

Shaikh Mohamed Abdulla Khalifa AlKhalifa (Non-Executive Chairman) +973 3969 2299

Peterhouse Capital Limited

Corporate Adviser +44 20 7469 0930

Guy Miller/Mark Anwyl
LONDON, Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- JK Tech, a global provider of next-generation Digital and Business Consulting Services has announced its participation in the upcoming Retail Digital Summit organised by GDS. The event is scheduled for September 05-07, 2023. JK Tech will be showcasing its gamut of retail technology solutions that are specifically targeted at the challenging scenario in the UK and European retail markets. With the potential of enhancing customer experiences, optimizing operations, and driving growth, the solutions provide insights into how businesses can navigate this evolving landscape successfully. The summit will bring together industry experts, and technology innovators, and will serve as a dynamic platform for them to delve into pivotal topics, including refining e-commerce strategies, revolutionizing retail supply chains, elevating customer experiences, and embracing the transformative power of digitalization and the metaverse in the retail industry.

The JK Tech team comprising Tanuj Singh, Senior Vice President & Head- UK & Europe Business, and Raj Basu, VP - Retail & CPG Solutions will be contributing their expertise to the summit's discussions and sessions. The AI-led Hyperautomation solutions leveraged with the power of Data can help retailers realize business value for their Digital Transformation initiatives. The solution suite focuses on Hyper-personalized Customer Value Management, Pricing and Promotion Recommendation, Supply Chain Optimization, and Intelligent Demand Fulfilment Solutions.

In a statement, Tanuj Singh, Senior Vice President & Head- UK & Europe Business, JK Tech, says, "We are excited to participate in the Retail Digital Summit organised by GDS. As a company at the forefront of delivering cutting-edge technology solutions, JK Tech has a proven track record of helping businesses embrace digital transformation to stay competitive in today's fast-paced market. With the retail industries in the UK and Europe undergoing significant disruptions, JK Tech is set to present its comprehensive range of retail technology solutions, strategically tailored to address the demanding conditions within the said markets. This is a testament to our belief that it is crucial for businesses to adopt innovative strategies that enhance customer engagement and streamline operations. JK Tech's presence at the summit underscores its commitment to shaping the future of retail through digital innovation, sharing insights on navigating a rapidly evolving landscape, and leveraging cutting-edge technology for sustained growth and success. We look forward to engaging in meaningful discussions and sharing our perspectives on driving retail excellence through technology."

About JK Tech

JK Tech is a next-generation Digital and Business Consulting provider enabling clients globally to navigate their Digital Transformation. The organisation stands by its vision of being 'committed to a superior experience' with its customers, its people, and its social environment. JK Tech offers specialised capabilities across Healthcare, Retail & Consumer products, and Insurance with its niche Hyperautomation solutions leveraging Data and Analytics that help improve their performance and create lasting value across its enterprises. To learn more, visit www.jktech.com . Find JK Tech on Twitter, LinkedIn

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Eugene, Oregon--(Newsfile Corp. - August 29, 2023) - Silo Wellness, Inc. (CSE: SILO) (OTCQB: SILFF) (FSE: 3K7A) ("SILO") has confirmed its intention to acquire all of the issued and outstanding securities of NUGL Inc. (OTC Pink: NUGL) ("NUGL" or "TargetCo") in a transaction valued at CAD $43,289,624.60, subject to the terms and conditions set forth in the binding Letter of Intent executed on August 28, 2023 in an arms-length transaction.

Terms of the Transaction:

SILO shall hold an annual and general special shareholders meeting to obtain approval for the acquisition of NUGL/Kaya, to elect a new board that would result in a change of control of the resulting issuer, and for a potential share consolidation and potential name change.

SILO will acquire 100% of the issued and outstanding shares of NUGL in exchange for 2,010,000,000 shares from treasury (all shares herein are pre-consolidation), for a purchase price of CAD $40,200,000.00.

NUGL stock options, warrants, and other convertible securities will be adjusted to receive SILO Common Shares on an economically equivalent basis.

Silo Wellness will issue common shares in a best-efforts private placement financing to raise gross proceeds of CAD $250,000.00 to $2M at 2 cents per share to validate the purchase price and cover costs to close the transaction, as well as provide additional capital for strategic growth post-merger.

Finder's fee of 3% of the transaction shall be paid to NUGL board member Benjamin Kaplan and 3% to Silo CEO Mike Arnold for a total of 64,934,437 shares issued each.

The final structure of the Transaction is subject to receipt of final tax, corporate, and securities law advice and securities regulatory and CSE approval for both SILO and NUGL.

The combined market cap of the two companies at the CAD $0.02/share valuation would be CAD $43,289,624.60. NUGL shares are valued at CAD $0.0461 (USD $0.0344). Silo shares are valued at CAD $0.02. The effective time of the transaction will result in the listing of the shares of the combined company on the Canadian Securities Exchange ("CSE"). The CSE is likely to keep the stock halted until such shareholder decision due to the size of the transaction, the change of control, and the definition of fundamental change under the rules.

Audited financial information about NUGL Inc. will be provided to shareholders prior to the special shareholders meeting to vote on this acquisition. This information will also be included in the press release announcing the signing of the definitive agreement.

Contact Silo Wellness:

Mike Arnold, CEO

541-900-5871

IR at silo wellness dot com

For more information about Silo Wellness or to book a Jamaican psychedelic retreat, please visit www.silowellness.com.

For NUGL Media and Investor Relations, please contact:

David L. Kugelman

(866) 692-6847 Toll Free - U.S. & Canada

(404) 281-8556 Mobile and WhatsApp

dk@atlcp.com

Skype: kugsusa

About Silo Wellness

Silo Wellness Inc., founded in Oregon and a leader in psilocybin wellness retreats, is unwavering in its dedication to destigmatize and democratize transformative psychedelic experiences. Oregon trial lawyer and entrepreneur Mike Arnold founded Silo Wellness in 2018, and it stands as the state's only publicly traded company actively providing psilocybin experiences to clients. The company's retreats, currently set in the breathtaking landscapes of Jamaica with expansion plans in Oregon, facilitate personal healing journeys.

Silo Wellness has received significant media recognition for its groundbreaking work, notably including a feature in Anderson Cooper's CNN documentary, 'Magic Mushrooms: Can They Change Your Mind?' During this documentary (now on HBO Max), CNN Correspondent David Culver experiences on-camera psilocybin therapy, illuminating the transformative power of these experiences. It further emphasizes Silo Wellness's ambitious plans for a rural psilocybin service center in the Portland area, complete with overnight accommodations, pending land use permits. Acknowledging potential challenges and competition in this emergent field, Silo Wellness remains resolute in its mission to bring the healing power of psilocybin to those in need.

Please share and comment on Silo's posts on social media:

Facebook

Twitter

Instagram

LinkedIn

About Kaya Group and NUGL Inc.

Kaya is a leader in Jamaica's fast-growing hospitality and tourism industry through its three Kaya Herb House retail locations and Gap Cafe wellness center. Kaya Herb House Drax Hall near Ocho Rios is Jamaica's first legal Medical Marijuana dispensary and the company's flagship retail complex. It is also the base for Kaya's cultivation and processing operations. The second Kaya Herb House in Kingston is minutes from the Bob Marley Museum, Jamaica House, the Office of the Prime Minister, and the French Embassy in the heart of Kingston within the golden triangle. Kaya's third retail location in the historic town of Falmouth is minutes from the cruise ship terminal and about 30 minutes from Montego Bay. Kaya recently opened the first phase of its Wellness Center at The Gap Cafe, located in the pristine hills of the Jamaican Blue Mountains, approximately 21 miles from Kingston outside the entrance to Holywell Recreation Park. The Gap Cafe has been a Jamaican treasure for nearly a century. Kaya has operated it as a wellness center since December 2022.

Kaya offers tours of Kaya Farm at its Drax Hall location, with more than 45 different genetics being cultivated and processed. All of our Kaya Herb House retail locations include:

A Dab Bar Consumption Lounge.

An authentic Italian thin-crust pizzeria.

Our world-renowned Square Grouper bar.

Kaya targets the potential multibillion-dollar industry for developing, marketing, and distributing psilocybin mushrooms, which are legal in Jamaica, through its Kaya Extracts division. For more information about Kaya, please visit https://kayaherbhouse.com.

Follow Kaya on social media using the links below:

Kaya Herb House Instagram

Kaya Herb House Facebook

Kaya Herb House Twitter

The NUGL platform provides companies in the cannabis industry with targeted networking and advertising opportunities to expand their reach by connecting with consumers where cannabis is legal.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/178740
BRUSSELS/FRANKFURT/PARIS (dpa-AFX) - French stocks advanced on Tuesday after a survey showed French consumer confidence stabilized in August, with a score of 85 points and meeting consensus estimates. Hopes of further Chinese stimulus measures also underpinned investor sentiment ahead of a barrage of key economic readings due this week. The benchmark CAC 40 was up 19 points, or 0.3 percent, at 7,343 after rallying 1.3 percent the previous day. Euro zone bond yields slipped ahead of data on U.S. job openings that might provide additional clues on the Federal Reserve's rate trajectory. Technip Energies N.V., an engineering and technology company, rose about 1 percent. The company announced that it has been awarded a contract by bp for a hydrogen production unit at its Kwinana biorefinery in Western Australia for undisclosed sum. 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.
Autel Europe CEO Ting Cai will give a speech at ICNC23.

Autel Energy, a leading provider of innovative EV charging solutions, is pleased to announce its participation in the highly-anticipated Intercharge Network Conference 2023 (ICNC23) to be held on August 29-31, 2023, in Berlin. Ting Cai, CEO of Autel Europe, is set to captivate the audience with an insightful speech on the future of EV charging. Autel's hallmark innovation, the MaxiCharger DC Compact, will take center stage as it makes a live demonstration at the Plug&Charge Showcase Zone to showcase its seamless charging process.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230828771064/en/

Complete MaxiCharger Lineup Unveiled at ICNC23 and IAA MOBILITY 2023 (Graphic: Business Wire)

ICNC23 is renowned for bringing together top industry professionals, experts, and stakeholders in the electric vehicle charging infrastructure domain. Ting Cai's speech and Autel's charging capabilities of its products will provide attendees with an exclusive opportunity to experience first-hand the cutting-edge technology that Autel Energy has brought to the market.

Autel MaxiCharger series offer a revolutionary charging solution that has transformed the charging experience for electric vehicle owners. With its high-speed charging capabilities, intuitive user interface, and compatibility with various electric vehicle models, Autel has earned its reputation as an indispensable tool for EV owners. Notably, Autel Energy has been officially checked and validated by Hubject, making its way into the Plug&Charge ecosystem. At ICNC23, Autel will bring its MaxiCharger DC Compact to demonstrate the charging process at the Plug&Charge Showcase Zone, which will impeccably showcase its exceptional features, emphasizing its role in providing a seamless and efficient charging process for electric vehicles.

Following the ICNC23, Autel Energy is excited to continue its engagement with the electric vehicle community at IAA MOBILITY 2023 (International Motor Show Germany) to take place on September 5-10, 2023, in Munich. During this period, Autel will embark on a roadshow, with its event vehicles journeying from ICNC in Berlin all the way to IAA MOBILITY in Munich and ultimately welcoming visitors at booth C2 A31.

"We are delighted to be part of ICNC23 and IAA MOBILITY 2023, where we can showcase the capabilities of Autel's EV chargers and its seamless integration with various EV models," said Ting Cai, CEO of Autel Europe. "As the EV market continues to grow, Autel Energy remains committed to delivering cutting-edge charging solutions that enhance the driving experience for EV owners worldwide."

Visitors attending ICNC23 and IAA MOBILITY will have the exclusive opportunity to explore the charging process of the demonstration EV by Autel Energy's comprehensive array of EV charging products. Autel Energy's team of experts will be available at the event to engage with visitors, share insights, and discuss the transformative potential of their cutting-edge charging solutions.

For more information about Autel Energy and its EV charging solutions, please visit: https://autelenergy.com/

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230828771064/en/

Contacts:

Jiaqi Liu

Email:jiaqi.liu@autel.com
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - August 29, 2023) - Thesis Gold Inc. (TSXV: TAU) (WKN: A2JM2X) (OTCQX: BNCHD) ("Thesis" or the "Company") is pleased to present the first drill results of the 2023 drill campaign that extends high-grade mineralization to a depth of ~400 metres at the Dukes Ridge Deposit. The Lawyers Gold-Silver Project is 100% owned by Thesis Gold following the Company's recent merger. The Project, accessible by road in the prolific Toodoggone Mining District is contiguous with the Company's adjacent Ranch Gold Project, collectively creating a 325 km2 land package.

Highlights

Assay results from three completed Dukes Ridge drill holes that intersected broad intervals of mineralization include (Table 1): 23DRDD001: 45.00 meters (m) of 1.03 grams per tonne gold (g/t Au) and 5 1 .53 g/t silver (Ag) , or 1.67 g/t gold equivalent (AuEq*) beginning at 376 m hole depth. 23DRDD002: 68.00 m of 1.25 g/t Au and 65.65 g/t Ag, or 2.07 g/t AuEq* 23DRDD003: 53.00 m of 2.12 g/t Au and 104.95 g/t Ag, or 3.43 g/t AuEq* including a 16.52 m wide zone of 9.68 g/t AuEq*

These results are the deepest ever reported from the Dukes Ridge Deposit and demonstrate excellent continuity in the high-grade mineralization at depth (Figure 1).

Additional 2023 drilling along strike and at depth below these results also encountered visually strong mineralization and alteration. Results from these holes are anticipated shortly.

The 2023 drilling at the Lawyers Project is confirming high grade mineralization >200 metres beneath the base of the modelled Dukes Ridge pit shell (Figures 1 & 2), as defined in the 2022 Preliminary Economic Assessment (PEA) by Benchmark Metals (Preliminary Economic Assessment - August 2022). The PEA evaluated an open-pit only mining scenario.

The Company sees an opportunity to incorporate this deep, high-grade mineralization into an underground mining scenario.

This season's ongoing drilling at Lawyers has focused on both the Dukes Ridge and Cliff Creek Deposits while at Ranch the Company has drilled the following zones, Patti, Steve, Bonanza-Ridge, Thesis II, Thesis III, Bingo with additional targets still to be tested.

Ewan Webster, President and CEO, commented, "We defined clear drilling objectives for our exploration program this year. At the Lawyers Project, subsequent trade off studies to the PEA underscored the potential to integrate higher grade underground operations, taking advantage of the project's favorable topography. Drilling at Lawyers was planned to maximize this approach with the possibility to access higher-grade material earlier in the mine schedule, optimize the strip ratio for open pits, and enhance the resource estimates for an updated project study. The assay results from the first three Duke Ridge drill holes revealed high-grade intervals that demonstrate we are delivering on those objectives, and we are particularly encouraged because Duke's Ridge is the deposit closest to daylighting. We still have several holes pending, and the consistency of grades from visual mineralization is promising. So far, we've drilled over 24,000 metres of our company's planned 50,000-metre season. These are just the initial results, and with ongoing drilling at both the Lawyers and Ranch Projects, we look forward to sharing more updates in the near term."

This drilling campaign continues to delineate gold and silver mineralization below the currently defined Dukes Ridge deposit and demonstrates that mineralization continues for over 200 m below the open pit mining scenario outlined in the 2022 PEA. The Company is awaiting assay results for multiple holes that intersected visual mineralization below and adjacent to these results. Thesis is optimistic that mineralization at Dukes Ridge remains open at depth, indicating further potential for resource growth.

The primary focus of 2023 drilling at Lawyers is to confirm and expand the mineral resource below the modelled open pits. Deep, high-grade gold and silver has the potential to significantly improve project economics by allowing for an underground mining scenario that can be carried out independently or in concert with the open pit operations.

Table 1: Dukes Ridge drill highlights.

Hole ID From (m) To (m) Interval (m*) Au (g/t) Ag (g/t) AuEq**(g/t) 23DRDD001 376.00 421.00 45.00 1.03 51.53 1.67 incl 390.00 391.57 1.57 2.75 209.53 7.33 and 396.00 399.00 3.00 4.08 120.08 5.58 incl 397.72 398.41 0.69 13.45 351.00 17.84 and 404.44 406.00 1.56 3.48 139.30 5.22 and 415.06 418.00 2.94 3.02 130.10 4.65 incl 415.06 416.00 0.94 7.34 277.00 10.80 23DRDD002 314.00 318.00 4.00 3.48 171.85 5.62 incl 314.00 316.00 2.00 5.90 271.00 9.29 346.00 350.00 4.00 0.50 84.60 1.56 370.00 438.00 68.00 1.25 65.65 2.07 incl 370.00 372.00 2.00 11.05 520.00 17.55 and 388.00 390.00 2.00 4.97 178.00 7.20 and 424.00 426.00 2.00 2.99 157.00 4.95 and 434.00 438.00 4.00 5.54 449.00 11.15 23DRDD003 326.00 328.00 2.00 6.72 91.80 7.87 388.00 441.00 53.00 2.12 104.95 3.43 incl. 423.20 439.72 16.52 5.72 316.49 9.68 incl. 423.20 425.46 2.26 10.26 573.73 17.43 and 437.00 439.72 2.72 19.41 1099.65 33.16 incl. 437.00 437.70 0.70 42.80 2260.00 71.05

*Intervals are core length. True width is estimated 75 - 95% of core length intervals.

**AuEq: Gold equivalent calculated using 80:1 silver to gold ratio





Figure 1: Long section of drilling at Dukes Ridge.

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/2191/178781_f33c99b9d48fe8df_001full.jpg







Figure 2: Cross Section showing Cliff Creek and Dukes Ridge open pits with mineralized domains within and below them.



To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/2191/178781_f33c99b9d48fe8df_002full.jpg

Quality Assurance and Control

Results from samples were analyzed at ALS Global Laboratories (Geochemistry Division) in Vancouver, Canada (an ISO/IEC 17025:2017 accredited facility). The sampling program was undertaken by Company personnel under the direction of Rob L'Heureux, P.Geol. A secure chain of custody is maintained in transporting and storing of all samples. Gold was assayed using a fire assay with atomic emission spectrometry and gravimetric finish when required (+10 g/t Au). Drill intervals with visible gold were assayed using metallic screening. Rock chip samples from outcrop/bedrock are selective by nature and may not be representative of the mineralization hosted on the project.

The technical content of this news release has been reviewed and approved by Michael Dufresne, M.Sc, P.Geol., P.Geo., a qualified person as defined by National Instrument 43-101.

On behalf of the Board of Directors

Thesis Gold Inc.

"Ewan Webster"

Ewan Webster Ph.D., P.Geo.

President, CEO, and Director

About Thesis Gold Inc.

Thesis Gold, following its strategic merger with Benchmark Metals, is unlocking the combined potential of the Ranch and Lawyers Gold-Silver Projects in the Toodoggone mining district of north central British Columbia, Canada. A 2022 Preliminary Economic Assessment for the Lawyers project alone projected an open-pit mining operation yielding 163,000 gold equivalent ounces annually over a 12-year span. By integrating the Ranch project, the company aims to enhance these figures and bolster the overall project's potential. Central to this ambition is the 50,000-metre drill program, which aims to define the high-grade underground resource at Lawyers and augment the near-surface high-grade deposits at Ranch. The company's roadmap includes releasing a combined Ranch-Lawyers resource estimate by Q2 2024, with an updated Preliminary Economic Assessment slated for Q3 2024. Through these strategic moves, Thesis Gold aspires to elevate the Ranch-Lawyers project to the forefront of global precious metals ventures.

For further information or investor relations inquiries, please contact:

Dave Burwell

Vice President Corporate Development

Email: daveb@thesisgold.com

Tel: 403-410-7907

Toll Free: 1-888-221-0915

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this press release.

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information

This press release contains "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. Forward-looking information includes, without limitation, statements regarding the use of proceeds from the Company's recently completed financings and the future plans or prospects of the Company. Generally, forward-looking information can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "plans", "expects" or "does not expect", "is expected", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates" or "does not anticipate", or "believes", or variations of such words and phrases or state that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will be taken", "occur" or "be achieved". Forward-looking statements are necessarily based upon a number of assumptions that, while considered reasonable by management, are inherently subject to business, market, and economic risks, uncertainties, and contingencies that may cause actual results, performance, or achievements to be materially different from those expressed or implied by forward-looking statements. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated, or intended. There can be no assurance that such information will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. Other factors which could materially affect such forward-looking information are described in the risk factors in the Company's most recent annual management's discussion and analysis, which is available on the Company's profile on SEDAR at www.sedar.com . The Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking information, except in accordance with applicable securities laws.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/178781
FREMONT, Calif., Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Jackery, a global leader of innovative portable power and green outdoor energy solutions, has announced that its star product, the Jackery Solar Generator 1000, has been certified Climate Pledge Friendly by Amazon, underscoring the company's commitment to environmental sustainability and dedication to making a positive impact on the planet.

The Amazon Climate Pledge Friendly initiative is a program to help make it easy for customers to discover and shop for more sustainable products. Climate Pledge Friendly products are clearly labeled in shopping results, have additional sustainability information on the product page, and are featured in a dedicated section of Amazon. This green label is only given to products that adhere to strict environmental standards and show a strong dedication to sustainable development. The plaudit serves as a testament to the Jackery product's eco-friendly design and its positive impact on mitigating climate change.

"In line with our core values and mission to offer environmentally friendly power solutions to consumers, while also ensuring the preservation of our planet, we are delighted to participate in this program," said Tracy Wang, Global PR Head at Jackery. "This initiative not only promotes widespread adoption and influence towards sustainable consumption but also encourages brands like Jackery, to prioritize the creation of more sustainable products - an endeavor we have dedicated ourselves to for several years."

For years, Jackery has demonstrated a steadfast commitment to sustainability, offering a range of products that prioritize environmental responsibility. Most notably, Jackery has achieved carbon footprint verification from TUV SUD for ten of its products. Furthermore, Jackery's unwavering dedication to sustainable innovation has been recognized with the prestigious SEAL Sustainable Product Award for 2023, specifically for its outstanding SG 2000 Plus. Jackery is also dedicated to environmental preservation and actively participates in various initiatives. Jackery partnered with the National Forest Foundation (NFF) to plant 10,000 trees. Jackery has also teamed up with the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) in a restoration program aimed at helping the critically endangered black-footed ferrets in North America.

The Amazon Climate Pledge Friendly certification brings headline recognition to Jackery's ongoing efforts to provide innovative and eco-conscious solutions for customers around the world while protecting the planet. By continuing to prioritize sustainability and environmental responsibility, Jackery aims to make more contributions to the global transition to clean energy and promote a more sustainable future.

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Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - August 29, 2023) - Resouro Gold Inc. (TSXV: RAU) (FSE: BU9) ("Resouro" or the "Company") is that on August 29, 2023 (the "Closing Date") it closed a brokered private placement offering (the "Offering") of 10,107,403 common shares in the capital of the Company ("Common Shares") at a price of $0.28 per Common Share for aggregate gross proceeds of $2,830,000. The Company is pleased to welcome Regal Funds Management as a cornerstone shareholder to the register and would like to thank existing shareholders, prominent institutional and family office resources focused investors, for their continued support for Resouro.

The Offering represents an 87% premium to Resouro's last capital raising at $0.15 per Common Share in June 2023. The Common Shares issued in connection with the Offering are subject to a statutory hold period of four months.

President/CEO and major shareholder of Resouro, Chris Eager, commented:

"We are extremely pleased to welcome additional investment from three high caliber mining investment funds into Resouro. This is a great endorsement of the Tiros project and the work our team is doing on the ground in Brazil to drive shareholder value. The additional capital raised will be put to good use to increase the proposed drill and metallurgical test-work program to build value at the Tiros Rare Earths and Titanium Project. We look forward to continually updating the market as results materialize."

The Offering was led by Taylor Collison Limited (the "Agent"), which acted as agent for the Offering. As compensation for its services, the Agent received a capital raising fee equal to 6.0% of the aggregate gross proceeds of the Offering (the "Capital Raising Fee"), payable in cash.

The Company intends to use net proceeds from the Offering to advance exploration on the Company's Tiros Titanium-REE Project and Novo Mundo Gold Project in Brazil and for general working capital purposes.

Resouro to pursue secondary listing on the Australian Securities Exchange ("ASX") .

Resouro is also pleased to announced it intends to pursue a secondary listing on the Australian Securities Exchange ("ASX"). The ASX dual listing will complement Resouro's current TSX-V (Canadian) and FSE (Frankfurt) listings and will allow the Company to better service the large Australian investor base currently supporting Resouro.

The Company has engaged law firm Thomson Geer, lead manager Taylor Collison and Australian Company Director Justin Clyne as Australian representatives to assist Resouro in navigating the application process. Resouro is targeting a listing by the end of 2023, subject to market conditions and being able to satisfy the appropriate ASX listing requirements.

Shareholders are advised that there is no certainty, or guarantee, that the ASX listing will occur and there is a risk that the ASX may determine that the Company is not an entity suitable for listing on the ASX or the Company may not be able to comply with the requirements and/or satisfy the conditions imposed by the ASX.

Resouro CEO, Chris Eager, commented;

"Through the last two capital raisings we have found that investors in Australia have demonstrated a deep understanding of the rare earths market and the large scale and quality of Resouro's Tiros Project. After completion of the latest capital raising Resouro now has a very strong share register including specialist mining funds and prominent mining investors in Australia. In addition, we believe that the ASX has an active retail investor base that has a strong following in the small resources sector. To this end, we believe a listing on the ASX would greatly assist in building shareholder value through increased market exposure and trading liquidity. Resouro will continue to update the market in respect of its secondary listing."

About Resouro Gold Inc.

Resouro is a Canadian-based mineral exploration and development company focused on the discovery and advancement of economic mineral projects in Brazil, including the Tiros Titanium-REE Project in Minas Gerais and the Novo Mundo Gold Project in Mato Grosso. Learn more about the Company on its website: https://resouro.com.

On behalf of the Board of Directors,

Chris Eager, President & CEO

RESOURO GOLD INC.

For further information, please contact the Company at:

Chris Eager, CEO For Investor inquiries

chris.eager@resouro.com nick@grovecorp.ca

416-642-1807

Disclaimer

This news release contains certain "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities law. Forward-looking information is frequently characterized by words such as "plan", "expect", "project", "intend", "believe", "anticipate", "estimate" and other similar words, or statements that certain events or conditions "may" or "will" occur. In particular, forward-looking information in this press release includes, but is not limited to, statements with respect to the completion of the titanium- REE project acquisition and the intended use of the proceeds from the Offering. Although we believe that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking information are reasonable, there can be no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. We cannot guarantee future results, performance or achievements. Consequently, there is no representation that the actual results achieved will be the same, in whole or in part, as those set out in the forward-looking information.

Forward-looking information is based on the opinions and estimates of management at the date the statements are made and are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those anticipated in the forward-looking information. Some of the risks and other factors that could cause the results to differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking information include, but are not limited to: general economic conditions in Canada and globally; industry conditions, including governmental regulation and environmental regulation; failure to obtain industry partner and other third party consents and approvals, if and when required, including obtaining final acceptance from of the TSXV; the availability of capital on acceptable terms; the need to obtain required approvals from regulatory authorities; stock market volatility; liabilities inherent in the mining industry; competition for, among other things, skilled personnel and supplies; incorrect assessments of the value of acquisitions; geological, technical, processing and transportation problems; changes in tax laws and incentive programs; failure to realize the anticipated benefits of acquisitions and dispositions; and the other factors. Readers are cautioned that this list of risk factors should not be construed as exhaustive.

The forward-looking information contained in this news release is expressly qualified by this cautionary statement. We undertake no duty to update any of the forward-looking information to conform such information to actual results or to changes in our expectations except as otherwise required by applicable securities legislation. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking information.

The TSX Venture Exchange has neither approved nor disapproved the contents of this press release.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Not for distribution to U.S. Newswire Services or for dissemination in the United States. Any failure to comply with this restriction may constitute a violation of U.S. Securities Laws.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/178832
"Wow, it looks delicious!" one taster exclaimed as Ma Yuzhong, an employee at the Hainan Youqi Agricultural Company, split open a ripe durian that had just fallen from a tree in the company's plantation in the Yucai Ecological Zone of Sanya, Hainan province. With a fresh yet mild fragrance and glistening yellow pulp, the Sanya durian, China's first homegrown variety, looks and tastes a bit different from its Southeast Asian counterparts. Unlike other types, its rind is yellow-green, and its pulp is not slimy, but rather a bit chewy and delicate. Its pulp does not stick to its shell, its core or people's hands. "The average amount of sugar in a Sanya durian exceeds 38 grams, making it twice as sweet as lychee," said Du Baizhong, the company's general manager and president of the Hainan Durian Association. Durian that are unripe when picked and then ripen while being transported usually have 25 to 30 grams of sugar each. Du noted that the biggest advantage of Sanya durian production is that they ripen naturally on the tree, unlike other commercialized varieties, and they have a high proportion of pulp. "We let them ripen and fall to the ground naturally without using any artificial methods to accelerate the process. When durian begin to mature, they release ethylene, which allows the spiky fruit to ripen from the inside out, so its texture is not sticky and its scent is less intense," he explained. Wen Chao, founder of the Wenji Durian brand, tasted five Sanya durian on July 25. He said two of the five exceeded his expectations. "Given that the trees are only 3 years old, even in Southeast Asia, this fruit would be considered world-class," he said. Feng Xuejie, director of the tropical fruit tree research institute of the Hainan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, told China Newsweek that Hainan introduced durian trees from Malaysia in 1958, but due to the lack of management, they only bore one fruit, and some began to question whether Hainan was suitable for plantation. In 2015, however, 44 durian trees were introduced to Baoting Li and Miao autonomous county as part of afforestation efforts, and in 2019 they successfully bore fruit, which inspired the Hainan Youqi Agricultural Company to cultivate the tropical crop in Sanya, Baoting and Ledong county. Growing the fruit in Hainan is advantageous due to the island's abundance of sunlight. But in Sanya, the largest durian plantation area of the province, its rainfall mainly occurs between July and September, which poses a challenge to farmers who need to ensure the trees are properly watered throughout the year. To address the uneven rainfall, the company has built a reservoir and transformed its irrigation system, and has begun monitoring the growth of durian trees through sensors. "We have adopted smart agriculture, as well as fertilizer and water automation. For example, we use a modern micro-spray system. If there is a shortage of water, the system will nourish the durian trees in a timely manner," said Lang Haibo, the company's deputy general manager. Du said: "We also make our own organic fertilizer for the trees. We use local fish that have been fermented to make a protein, together with bean protein fertilizer." Du's company is Hainan's largest durian producer. It has planted more than 466 hectares of durian trees in Sanya, of which about 86.7 hectares bore fruit for the first time in July and will finish yielding this month, with a total output of more than 40 metric tons expected. The company hasn't yet put its first batch of durian on the market this year, but it has held durian tastings. Durian is one of the top imported fruits in China. "But next year, durian lovers will be able to purchase Sanya durian in tasting houses in cities such as Beijing, Shanghai and Guangzhou, Guangdong province," Du said. The company is developing a quality rating system and constructing a cold storage chain to lock in the fruit's natural taste, so that people in other areas of China can enjoy the fresh taste of Sanya durian next year. In Qionghai's World Tropical Fruit Agricultural Base, many varieties of well-known durian trees introduced from Southeast Asia are bearing fruit. Some of these durian have been sold across the country, according to the city's media center.
Fotowatio Renewable Ventures Australia (FRV), a leading developer of sustainable energy solutions, and part of Abdul Latif Jameel Energy and OMERS, has further expanded its activities in New Zealand securing three new solar sites in the country, which it completed with its joint venture (JV) partner Genesis Energy, a New Zealand publicly listed electricity generation company.

The solar farms will be developed on New Zealands North Island in Manawatu, Waikato and Hawkes Bay with an expected capacity of 200 megawatt (MW), 100MW and 100MW respectively.

The three sites will generate enough electricity to power approximately 85,000 homes per year, about the size of Wellington, the capital of New Zealand.

These three solar farms will remove approximately 500,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions from fossil fuel generation annually.

Earlier this year, FRV Australia and Genesis joint venture agreed to acquire the Lauriston solar farm, an advanced stage project in Canterbury with 52MW capacity.

The combined generation of the four sites - 452 MW - puts the company on track to achieve the JV targets, set in 2021, of securing up to 500 MW of solar projects within five years.

Carlo Frigerio, CEO of FRV Australia, said The new sites under development are the outcome of the ongoing successful joint efforts between FRV Australia and Genesis. They form an important part of our strategy aimed at developing sustainable energy solutions as part of our mission to drive the global energy transition towards a cleaner future. We are deeply committed to working with world-class partners to realise our development ambitions in New Zealand following our highly successful ventures in Australia.

Rebecca Larking, Chief Operations Officer at Genesis, said Solar provides a strong alternative source of renewable generation to the countrys heavy reliance on hydro and growth in wind generation with the added benefit that the time to build and start delivering electricity is a lot quicker than any other type of generation. This will help jumpstart electrifying and decarbonising New Zealand businesses and households at scale ensuring the country is on track to be net-zero by 2050.

Christopher Curtain, Senior Managing Director and Head of Asia-Pacific, OMERS Infrastructure, said: "OMERS Infrastructure remains committed to OMERS ongoing investments in energy transition opportunities, strategically expanding our global portfolio. We are excited by the opportunity to invest in New Zealands energy sector, alongside Genesis, a like-minded partner. Together, we can advance our collective efforts to facilitate a shift to greener and more sustainable infrastructure."

Daniel Sagi Vela, FRV Group global CEO, said: These three new sites are the testament to FRV Groups determination to become the leading developer of solar generation in New Zealand. Securing these lands puts us well on track for the realisation of our vision to develop 500MW of solar capacity over the next five years in New Zealand. Alongside our partner Genesis Energy, we are committed to supporting sustainable infrastructure development in New Zealand as part of our global efforts towards a cleaner future for all.-TradeArabia News Service
Nanjing, China--(Newsfile Corp. - August 29, 2023) - From September 4th to September 30th, Made-in-China.com will kick off the Golden Sourcing Season Event.

The official website of Made-in-China.com

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/8457/178658_077b37bc247f7a50_002full.jpg

Made-in-China.com stands as a leading platform, uniting an extensive network of over 6 million audited Chinese suppliers spanning across 4,300 product categories. It offers comprehensive solutions for businesses on a global scale. To provide buyers with more beneficial activities and superior services, Made-in-China.com launches its annual procurement event - the Golden Sourcing Season.

The Golden Sourcing Season combines the platform's abundant resources, cutting-edge technology, and both online and offline opportunities, bringing a plethora of Chinese suppliers and products to global buyers. This event transcends geographical boundaries by hosting a diverse array of online sourcing activities. With a "click," buyers gain access to an extensive range of products for purchase. Taking this experience to new heights, the Golden Sourcing Season will also show at prestigious global exhibitions, offering local buyers a hands-on interaction with Chinese products.

In the previous year, the Golden Sourcing Season (also known as the "Smart Expo") witnessed a multiple-fold increase in procurement orders. This remarkable growth can be attributed to Made-in-China.com's facilitation of smooth procurement processes.

Michael Gwilliam, a procurement representative from a baby diaper company in Turkey, contacted Made-in-China.com to seek long-term and stable supply partners during the previous year's Golden Sourcing Season. His goal was to source specialized diapers and care liquids for children with conditions like autism, but locating global suppliers capable of customizing such products was quite a challenge. Made-in-China.com, after meticulous selection and research, successfully connected a company with a reputable manufacturer based in Fujian province. Within a remarkably short period of just thirty minutes, preliminary intentions for cooperation were established.

The upcoming Golden Sourcing Season Event has been upgraded with enhanced services and features. Made-in-China.com plans to create seven main venues, each tailored to the unique preferences of a diverse array of buyers. These encompass traditional B2B purchasers, local distributors, emerging retailers, and corporate procurement managers. These venues, named the Customization Center, Brand Distribution, Retail & Wholesale, One-Stop Shopping, Budget-Friendly Products, Instant Buy, and Global Exhibition, are strategically designed to alleviate the challenges buyers encounter throughout the various phases of procurement, payment, and logistics.

China's renewable energy sector witnessed increased global output in the first half of this year, coupled with a 35% year-on-year growth in electric vehicle sales. The Golden Sourcing Season will introduce the dedicated New Energy Products venue to help buyers find new energy products and follow the green trend.





Made-in-China.com helped buyers source products at Selected Sourcing Connect.



To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/8457/178658_chinabox.jpg

In addition to facilitating online procurement, Made-in-China.com will participate in renowned exhibitions such as Autumn Fair, Expo Ferretera, and EMO Hannover. Furthermore, Made-in-China.com will hold four Selected Sourcing Connect events in the United Kingdom, Spain, the Netherlands, and Belgium. Buyers from these countries will have the opportunity to attend on-site activities and explore products made in China curated by selected suppliers.

To visit Golden Sourcing Season and discover new ways for business growth on Made-in-china.com, click here: https://u.made-in-china.com/4dYHXsR7 or follow Made-in-China.com on social media.

Facebook: Made-in-China.com (https://www.facebook.com/b2b.made.in.china)

Youtube: Made-in-China.com (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJ3qXeohKQ2QpM76oFG8FOg)

Instagram: made_in_china_com (https://www.instagram.com/made_in_china_com/)

Contact: Yichun Wu

Email: wuyichun@focuschina.com

Source: Made-in-China.com

Dateline City: Nanjing, China

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/178658


STOCKHOLM (dpa-AFX) - Sweden's economy contracted less than initially estimated in the second quarter, while retail sales continued to decline in July amid lower demand for consumables and durables, figures from Statistics Sweden showed on Tuesday.



Gross domestic product dropped 0.8 percent sequentially in the June quarter, reversing a revised 0.4 percent rise in the March quarter.



According to the initial estimate, GDP logged a 1.5 percent contraction in the second quarter.



The downward trend in the second quarter was driven by negative contribution from household consumption and changes in inventories.



Household final consumption dropped 0.2 percent over the quarter and change in inventories showed a decline of 0.4 percent.



Meanwhile, general government consumption rose 0.5 percent and gross fixed capital formation showed no variations from the previous quarter.



On an annual basis, the Swedish economy contracted 1.0 percent in the second quarter, reversing a 1.0 percent growth in the preceding three-month period. The decline seen in the flash report was 2.4 percent.



In a separate report, the statistical office showed that retail sales declined at a slower rate of 2.1 percent annually in July versus a 4.4 percent fall in June. Sales have been falling since May last year.



On a monthly basis, retail sales recovered 1.0 percent in July, after a 0.2 percent drop in the prior month.



Retail sales of consumables declined 0.6 percent from a month ago, while sales of durables rose 2.7 percent.



Another report from the statistical office revealed that the trade balance of the country turned to a surplus of SEK 4.6 billion in July from a deficit of SEK 3.8 billion in the corresponding month last year.



The value of exports decreased 5.0 percent year-over-year in July, while imports grew at a faster pace of 10.0 percent.



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Mega-Chance: Der Indien Report Ihre Chancen im groten Wachstumsmarkt: 3 indische Top-Aktien. Die Highlights dieses Spezialreports: 1. Indien als Wachstumsriese, 2. Indiens Wirtschaft boomt!, 3. 3 Top-Performance-Aktien. Jetzt kostenlos downloaden. Hier klicken
QUEBEC, QC / ACCESSWIRE / August 29, 2023 / NuRAN Wireless Inc. ("NuRAN" or the "Company") (CSE:NUR) (OTCQB:NRRWF) (FSE:1RN), a leading supplier of mobile and broadband wireless infrastructure solutions, is pleased to announce further to its press release on July 25, 2023 that it has entered into a factoring agreement with a factoring company (the "Factor") dated as of August 28, 2023 (the "Factoring Agreement") for the sale of up to $15 million of receivables owed to the Company by its operating subsidiaries in Africa (the "Receivables"). Pursuant to the factoring facility the Company has sold Receivables valued at $8.65 million (the "Sold Receivables") for gross proceeds of $5,438,340 consisting of: (i) a cash payment of $4,638,340 were used to settle outstanding loans advanced by short term lenders, who are affiliates of the Factor; and (ii) a cash payment $800,000 on or before September 30, 2023 for the purpose of funding working capital requirements leading up to the finalisation of DFI loans. The Company does not anticipate needing to sell the remaining $6.35 million of Receivables.

Under the terms of the Factoring Agreement, the Factor will have recourse against NuRAN for any Sold Receivables, in certain circumstances. If the Factor delivers a recourse notice for a specific Sold Receivable ("Recourse Account"), the Company will have the option of satisfying any repurchase request of the Recourse Account in cash at 107% the price originally paid by the factoring company for the Recourse Account or by issuing units of the Company (each a "Unit") at $0.35 per Unit for the amount of the Recourse Account. Each Unit will be comprised of (i) one share in the capital of the Company; and (ii) three quarters (3/4) of one warrant exercisable into one additional share of the Company at $0.40 for a period of 3 years from entering into of the factoring facility. The Sold Receivables will bear interest until the Factor has received payment, at a rate of 15% per annum. If the Company does complete a subsequent sale of Receivables, the pricing on the Units will be set in compliance with applicable policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange.

In connection with the factoring facility, the Company agreed to pay an arrangement fee to the Factor consisting of 3,800,000 common shares (the "Fee Shares") (having a deemed value of $0.23 based on closing price of the common shares of NuRAN on the closing) representing approximately 5% of the total factoring facility. 2,500,000 of these Fee Shares were issued at the initial closing and the remainder will be issued on January 2, 2024. The Fee Shares will be subject to a statutory hold period in Canada of four months and a day.

Restructuring of Secured Convertible Debentures

NuRAN is also pleased to announce that has restructured its convertible secured debentures issued in February, 2023. The debenture holders have agreed to extend the maturity for a further 12 months to August, 2024 and waive certain rights pursuant to the debentures, including relating to events of default in favour of EIB and the other DFI. As consideration to these debenture holders, the Company has entered into debt settlement agreements and agreed to pay a 5% extension fee pursuant to which the prior secured debentures and related security agreements from February 2023 were cancelled and the Company agreed to issue the following: (i) secured convertible debentures (the "New Debentures") in the new aggregate principal amount of $2,792,810 (inclusive of accrued interest and fees) with a new conversion price of $0.35 per unit, with each unit comprised of one common share and three quarters (3/4) of one warrant, with each whole warrant exercisable to acquire an additional common share at a price of $0.40 until August 28, 2026. The New Debentures will bear interest until at a rate of 15% per annum.

About NuRAN Wireless:

NuRAN Wireless is a leading rural telecommunications company that meets the growing demand for wireless network coverage in remote and rural regions around the globe. With its affordable and innovative scalable solutions of 2G, 3G, and 4G technologies, NuRAN Wireless offers a new possibility for more than one billion people to communicate effectively over long distances efficiently and affordably. "Bridging the Digital Divide, One Connection at a Time."

Additional Information:

For further information about NuRAN Wireless: www.nuranwireless.com

Francis Letourneau,

Director and CEO

Francis.letourneau@nuranwireless.com

Tel: (418) 264-1337

Frank Candido

Investor relations

Frank.candido@nuranwireless.com

Tel: (514) 969-5530

Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Market Regulator (as defined in the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Forward Looking Statements

This news release contains forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of words such as, "expects", "is expected", "anticipates", "intends", "believes", or variations of such words and phrases or state that certain actions, events or results "may" or "will" be taken, occur or be achieved. Forward-looking statements include those relating to the Factoring Agreement and the sale of future receivables thereunder. Forward-looking statements are not a guarantee of future performance and are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from the results projected, expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that such information will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements, such as the uncertainties regarding include risks such as the uncertainties regarding the impact of the COVID-19 outbreak, and measures to prevent its spread, risks relating to NuRAN's business and the economy generally; NuRAN's ability to refinance its long term debt that is currently in default; NuRAN's ability to adequately restructure its operations with respect to its new model of NaaS service contracts; our ability to collect fees from our telecommunication providers and reliance on the network of our telecommunications providers, the capacity of the Company to deliver in a technical capacity and to import inventory to Africa at a reasonable cost; NuRAN's ability to obtain project financing for the proposed site build out under its NaaS agreements with Orange, MTN and other telecommunication providers, the loss of one or more significant suppliers or a reduction in significant volume from such suppliers; NuRAN's ability to meet or exceed customers' demand and expectations; significant current competition and the introduction of new competitors or other disruptive entrants in the Company's industry; effects of the global supply shortage affecting parts needed for NuRAN's sites and site installations; NuRAN's ability to retain key employees and protect its intellectual property; compliance with local laws and regulations and ability to obtain all required permits for our operations, access to the credit and capital markets, changes in applicable telecommunications laws or regulations or changes in license and regulatory fees, downturns in customers' business cycles; and insurance prices and insurance coverage availability, the Company's ability to effectively maintain or update information and technology systems; our ability to implement and maintain measures to protect against cyberattacks and comply with applicable privacy and data security requirements; the Company's ability to successfully implement its business strategies or realize expected cost savings and revenue enhancements; business development activities, including acquisitions and integration of acquired businesses; the Company's expansion into markets outside of Canada and the operational, competitive and regulatory risks facing the Company's non-Canadian based operations. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward looking information. Other factors which could materially affect such forward-looking information are described in the risk factors in the Company's most recent annual management's discussion and analysis that is available on the Company's profile on SEDAR at www.sedar.com.

SOURCE: NuRAN Wireless Inc.

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/777858/NuRAN-Enters-Into-Factoring-Facility-and-Restructuring-of-Secured-Convertible-Debentures
The Academy of Regional and Global Governance at Beijing Foreign Studies University Publishes a Report on this Historic Occasion

BEIJING, CHINA / ACCESSWIRE / August 29, 2023 / China's significant role in the BRICS partnership marked its 17th year anniversary, a period of consistent commitment to building a harmonious world order based on mutual understanding, coexistence, and shared prosperity. The "Integration" approach, unique to China, has demonstrated its efficacy in promoting global equilibrium while countering Western-centric ideologies. According to a report published by the Academy of Regional and Global Governance at Beijing Foreign Studies University, the BRICS nations celebrate their 17th year of collaboration, underscoring China's diplomatic acumen in fostering meaningful global partnerships.

The BRICS group-comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa-has evolved into a dynamic force driving equitable and progressive international relations, notably propelled by China's visionary initiatives.

China's adept utilization of the "Belt and Road Initiative" has yielded visionary concepts such as the "China-ASEAN Community of Shared Destiny" and the "China-Central Asia Community of Shared Destiny." These concepts, alongside the steadily emerging triad of BRICS, the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), and the Belt and Road Initiative, have solidified China's diplomatic toolkit.

China's vision, driven by the "Belt and Road Initiative," has led to groundbreaking collaborative efforts in creating the "China-ASEAN Community of Common Destiny" and the "China-Central Asia Community of Common Destiny." The BRICS, along with the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) and the Belt and Road Initiative, constitute the three pivotal pillars of China's foreign diplomacy.

The expansion of the BRICS partnership is a testament to the organization's commitment to inclusivity and cooperation. Originally comprised of Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, the BRICS Five has now been joined by Algeria, with Belarus expressing its intent to join this influential multilateral framework.

A hallmark of China's foreign policy has been the establishment of communities of shared destiny with neighboring regions, Asia-Pacific, Africa, the Arab world, and Latin America. This novel approach, distinguished by inclusivity rather than confrontation, counters the traditional "Western-centric" narrative while championing global cooperation.

The BRICS consortium, considered one of the world's paramount multilateral frameworks, exemplifies the transformative dynamics of contemporary international power structures. As the international landscape evolves, BRICS has consistently steered the global system towards fairness and reasonableness, aligning with prevailing global trends.

Since assuming the BRICS chairmanship in 2010, China has actively nurtured collaboration, leading to the inclusion of South Africa as the fifth member-transforming the "BRICS Four" into the "BRICS Five." Recent developments have further highlighted the collective influence of emerging markets and developing nations, with Algeria and Belarus expressing interest in joining the BRICS family.

China's dedicated efforts within the BRICS community have left an indelible "Chinese mark." From driving global economic resurgence to advocating international equity, China's role remains irreplaceable. Notably, as the world faces unprecedented change, the BRICS alliance adapts to the evolving global dynamics.

However, challenges lie ahead. BRICS nations, represented by Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, navigate the complex terrain of economic rejuvenation amid geopolitical fluctuations. Striving for cohesion and sustainable growth, these nations continue to fine-tune their cooperative mechanisms.

As the BRICS bloc embarks on its seventeenth year, the enduring question resonates: What chapter of global transformation will the BRICS Five, bolstered by China's visionary leadership, inscribe on the world stage? The international community watches with anticipation, eager to witness the unfolding of the "BRICS era."

Contact: Mingxuan Long

Email: greenfelder3k.axill@gmail.com

SOURCE: Academy of Regional and Global Governance at Beijing Foreign Studies University

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/777934/Chinas-BRICS-Initiative-Celebrates-17-Years-of-Partnership-and-Shared-Vision
SAINT PETERSBURG, FL / ACCESSWIRE / August 29, 2023 / Leading water and energy solutions provider, Energy and Water Development Corp (OTCQB:EAWD), is thrilled to reveal its recent engagement with ARC Group to guide its efforts in accessing a larger and more sophisticated pool of investors through an uplisting from OTC to a major exchange. This strategic step crucially demonstrates EAWD's determination in bringing its sustainable solutions to a larger audience, establishing a tangible and lasting presence among sophisticated investors, and optimizing its capital structure.

ARC Group, recognized for its vast experiences in capital markets financial advisory, will provide a firm sense of direction and assistance through its depth of service in the execution of EAWD's uplisting endeavor.

These services encompass:

Developing an uplisting plan, evaluating and structuring the transaction

Providing accounting and financial assistance as well as company valuation

Identifying and coordinating with pertinent third parties and service providers

Assisting on drafting and reviewing of corporate materials

"We believe ARC Group will bring strategic, administrative, and procedural clarity in the uplisting exercise, which is of vital importance to EAWD's business development journey" said Irma Velazquez, CEO of EAWD.

In this engagement, ARC Group will provide EAWD with informed advice on the introduction and selection of underwriters and investors. This process will involve specialist communication and negotiation with a range of underwriters, guided by a thorough understanding of EAWD's commercial offering and needs, and brings much needed certainty to the successful completion of the uplisting transaction.

To delve deeper into the ventures, innovations, and offerings of Energy and Water Development Corp, interested parties are encouraged to explore the Company's official website https://www.energy-water.com

About Energy and Water Development Corp (EAWD)

EAWD is a global engineering company that provides sustainable solutions to address the world's water scarcity and energy supply challenges. EAWD builds its systems out of proven technologies, using their technical know-how to customize solutions to their clients' needs. The Company offers design, construction, maintenance and specialty consulting services to private companies, government entities and non-government organizations (NGOs).

The company has existing offices in Germany and the United States and has now expanded its presence in Latin America with a new office in Mexico.

About ARC Group

Established in 2015, ARC Group is a full-service financial institution deeply rooted in Asia with global reach. They are global leaders in M&A and Capital Markets advisory. According to spacinsider.com league tables, ARC ranks 1st as M&A financial advisor by transactional value, market share and by number of transactions in 2022.

ARC Group works with companies to help them develop a comprehensive Capital Markets strategy, raise their visibility on the financial arena and position them for long-term success, regardless of whether they choose to pursue a strategic transaction, a round of financing, an IPO or SPAC. They provide a full spectrum of Investment Banking and Advisory services.

ARC Group acts as a bridge to connect Asia with Europe and America. With offices in mainland China, Hong Kong, Singapore, Indonesia, Malaysia, India, UAE, Mexico and New York, they are well-positioned to provide on-the-ground cross-border financial advisory services. Read more about ARC Group: https://arc-group.com/

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward Looking Information

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. The statements contained in this release that are not historical facts are forward-looking statements that represent management's beliefs and assumptions based on currently available information. Forward-looking statements include information concerning our possible or assumed future results of operations, business strategies, competitive position and potential growth opportunities. Our forward-looking statements do not consider the effects of future legislation or regulations. Forward-looking statements include all statements that are not historical facts and can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as the words "believes," "intends," "may," "will," "should," "anticipates," "expects," "could," "plans," "estimates," "projects," "targets," "forecasts" or comparable terminology or by discussions of strategy or trends. You should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks, uncertainties and assumptions. Moreover, we operate in a very competitive and rapidly changing environment. New risks emerge from time to time. It is not possible for our management to predict all risks, nor can we assess the impact of all factors on our business or the extent to which any factor, or combination of factors, may cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward- looking statements we may make. Although we believe that our plans, intentions and expectations reflected in or suggested by the forward-looking statements we make in this release are reasonable, we can give no assurance that these plans, intentions or expectations will be achieved or occur, and actual results could differ materially and adversely from those anticipated or implied by the forward-looking statements.

Among the factors that could cause actual future results to differ materially are those associated with general economic and business conditions; the risk that our projects may not perform as expected or produce the anticipated benefits; changes to personnel and employees, changes in the costs and results of operations; changes in government environmental policies and other environmental risks; public health crises, such as pandemics (including coronavirus (COVID-19)) and epidemics, and any related government policies and actions and the effects of such public health crises; risks related to litigation; general domestic and international economic, market and political conditions, including the military conflict between Russia and Ukraine and the global response to such conflict; the potential disruption or interruption of the Company's operations due to accidents, political events, civil unrest, war or terrorist acts, severe weather, cyber threats and data security issues, technology system failures, or other natural or human causes beyond the Company's control. Additional risks and assumptions that could cause results to differ materially from those described above can be found in EAWD's Form S-1/A filed on April 10, 2023, and in subsequent filings with the SEC, which are also available from its website at www.energy-water.com under the "Investors" tab, and in other documents EAWD files with the SEC.

The forward-looking statements in this press release are made as of the date hereof and are based on information available at that time. Energy and Water Development Corp. does not undertake, and expressly disclaims, any obligation or duty to update or revise any forward-looking statements based on new information, future events or otherwise.

Contact Information:

Energy and Water Development Corp (EAWD)

Email: velazquezi@energy-water.com

Website: https://www.energy-water.com/

SOURCE: Energy & Water Development Corp

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/777983/Energy-and-Water-Development-Corp-Taps-ARC-Group-Limited-for-Financial-Advisory-Services-Amid-Strategic-Uplisting-Endeavor


WASHINGTON (dpa-AFX) - While announcing its second-quarter results, Best Buy Co., Inc. (BBY) said it narrowed its fiscal year 2024 non-GAAP earnings per share guidance. The company expects its third quarter comparable sales to be slightly better than the negative 6.2% it reported for the second quarter and its non-GAAP operating income rate to be approximately 3.4%.



The company lowered the high-end of its full year revenue outlook to its previous midpoint, while keeping the low-end of its revenue guidance unchanged.



In Tuesday pre-market trade, BBY was trading at $74.84 up $0.77 or 1.04%.



The company now expects non-GAAP earnings for fiscal year 2024 to be in the range of $6.00 to $6.40, compared to the prior guidance of $5.70 to $6.50. Analysts polled by Thomson Reuters expect the company to report earnings of $6.08 per share for fiscal year 2024. Analysts' estimates typically exclude special items.



The company now projects annual revenue to be between $43.8 billion and $44.5 billion, compared to the prior guidance of $43.8 billion to $45.2 billion. Analysts expect revenue of $44.3 billion for the fiscal year.



The company now anticipates annual comparable sales decline of 4.5% to 6.0%, which compares to prior guidance of a decline of 3.0% to 6.0%.



The company said that its board has authorized the payment of a regular quarterly cash dividend of $0.92 per common share. The quarterly dividend is payable on October 10, 2023, to shareholders of record as of the close of business on September 19, 2023.



For more earnings news, earnings calendar, and earnings for stocks, visit rttnews.com



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Mega-Chance: Der Indien Report Ihre Chancen im groten Wachstumsmarkt: 3 indische Top-Aktien. Die Highlights dieses Spezialreports: 1. Indien als Wachstumsriese, 2. Indiens Wirtschaft boomt!, 3. 3 Top-Performance-Aktien. Jetzt kostenlos downloaden. Hier klicken
Conference call will be held on August 29, 2023, at 11AM ET

VANCOUVER, BC, Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Zoomd Technologies Ltd. (TSXV: ZOMD) (OTC: ZMDTF) and its wholly owned subsidiary Zoomd Ltd. (collectively, "Zoomd" or the "Company"), the marketing technology (MarTech) user-acquisition and engagement platform, today reported its financial results for the three months ended June 30, 2023. The Company's financial statements and management discussion and analysis ("MD&A") are available on SEDAR under the Company's profile. All currency references in this press release are in USD.

Financial Highlights

Revenues in 2Q23 were $8.8M, and gross profit margin was 36%.

The revenue reflects a decline of 46% relative to 2Q22 and an increase of roughly 700 bps in gross profit margin. The driving factors behind these changes are primarily the decline in the crypto sector, which carried high revenue volume with lower than average gross profit.

Revenues increased 2% relative to 1Q23, and management believes that revenues have begun to reach stabilization.

Adjusted EBITDA [1] was $0.4M in 2Q23.

was $0.4M in 2Q23. Ended 2Q23 with a cash balance of $2M and no long-term debt.

Management Commentary

Ido Almany, Chief Executive Officer of Zoomd Technologies, stated: "We are pleased to announce the Q2 results for Zoomd, showcasing our commitment to adaptability and resilience amidst a dynamic business landscape. In this quarter, we have taken strategic actions to optimize our operations, foster efficiency, and concentrate on our core business, setting the stage for sustained growth in the coming quarters.

Management is diligently implementing the corporate restructuring plan that was announced in early June. As previously reported, the cost reductions, which extend beyond headcount adjustments, are projected to result in annual savings of approximately $4 million. In addition to these cost savings, we have announced the discontinuation of several non-profitable and low-potential business lines. This strategic decision allows us to reallocate efforts and resources towards Zoomd's core business. Notably, these initiatives have already begun yielding promising outcomes, as evidenced by stabilizing revenue trends. Q2 revenues and Adjusted EBITDA demonstrated an increase over Q1, underscoring the effectiveness of our strategic measures.

While these measures are already showing positive signs, it's important to acknowledge that the full spectrum of their impact is yet to be realized. Our dedication to long-term success remains steadfast, and we are confident that as these efforts continue to unfold, we will be well-equipped to steer the company through the prevailing macroeconomic challenges and the rapid technological transformations that define our industry."

Amit Bohensky, Chairman of Zoomd Technologies, stated, "Navigating the complexities of today's business environment demands not only vision but also adaptability and foresight. As we persist in aligning our strategies with evolving market dynamics, we assure our stakeholders that we have strong hands at the helm. Our leadership team is unwavering in its commitment to harness the potential of our strategic measures and leverage our collective expertise to guide Zoomd into a future defined by innovation and sustainable growth."

Second Quarter 2023 Highlights

Revenues for the three months ended June 30, 2023, were $8.8 million, a 46% decline relative to 2Q22. The decrease in revenues is primarily a result of global macroeconomic conditions that impact client advertising budgets in general and specifically in areas of Fintech and in particular Cryptocurrency. Due to the fluctuating budgets of the Fintech and Cryptocurrency sectors, we continue to diversify our business by increasing our exposure to sectors such as E-commerce, iGaming, and CPG companies. Revenues in 2Q23 increased by 2% relative to 1Q23.

Gross profit margin was 36% for the three months ended June 30, 2023, versus 29% for the same period last year, reflecting lower revenues from the cryptocurrency segment which carries lower margins.

Research and Development expenses for the three months ended June 30, 2023, were $1M, a 38% decrease relative to 2Q22, reflecting lower deprecation and other R&D expenses.

Selling, General, and Administrative expenses for the three months ended June 30, 2023, were $2.8M, a 10% decrease YOY, reflecting the decrease in revenues.

Adjusted EBITDA for the three months ended June 30, 2023, was $0.4M as compared with Adjusted EBITDA of $1.6M for the three months ended June 30, 2022, reflecting the decrease in revenues. Adjusted EBITDA increased relative to the three months ended March 31 by $0.2M.

Operating loss was $0.6M for 2Q23, compared to an operating profit of $0.1M in 2Q22, and was primarily attributed to the decrease in revenues.

As of June 30, 2023, the Company's cash and cash equivalents amounted to $2 million, and no long-term debt.

Conference Call

Amit Bohensky, Founder and Chairman, will hold a conference call to discuss the quarter's financial results at 11AM ET on August 29, 2023.

Interested parties can listen via a live webcast, from the link available in the Investors section of Zoomd's website at https://zoomd.com/investors/ or https://app.webinar.net/rAzyarJa4Gb

A replay will be available after the call, in the Investors section of the Company's website at https://zoomd.com/investors/ or via https://app.webinar.net/rAzyarJa4Gb.

About Zoomd:

Zoomd (TSXV: ZOMD, OTC: ZMDTF), founded in 2012 and began trading on the TSX Venture Exchange in September 2019, offers a mobile app user-acquisition platform, integrated with many global digital media outlets, to advertisers. The platform unifies more than 600 media sources into one unified dashboard. Offering advertisers a user acquisition control center for managing all new customer acquisition campaigns using a single platform. By unifying all these media sources onto a single platform, Zoomd saves advertisers significant resources that would otherwise be spent consolidating data sources, thereby maximizing data collection and data insights while minimizing the resources spent on the exercise. Further, Zoomd is a performance-based platform that allows advertisers to advertise to relevant target audiences using a key performance indicator-algorithm that is focused on achieving the advertisers' goals and targets.

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

CAUTION REGARDING NON-IFRS FINANCIAL MEASURES

This press release refers to "Adjusted EBITDA" which is a non-IFRS financial measure that does not have a standardized meaning prescribed by IFRS. The Company's presentation of this preliminary financial measure may not be comparable to similarly titled measures used by other companies. This preliminary financial measure is intended to provide additional information to investors concerning the Company's estimated results. Adjusted EBITDA is defined as earnings before interest, tax, depreciation, and amortization, as adjusted for share-based payments and one-time non-operating expenses, and is a measure of a company's operating performance. Essentially, it's a way to evaluate a company's performance without having to factor in financing decisions, accounting decisions, or tax environments.

Management uses this non-IFRS measure as a key metric in the evaluation of the Company's performance and the consolidated financial results. The Company believes Adjusted EBITDA is useful to investors in their assessment of the operating performance and the valuation of the Company. However, non-IFRS financial measures are not prepared in accordance with IFRS, and the information is not necessarily comparable to other companies and should be considered as a supplement to, not a substitute for, or superior to, the corresponding measures calculated in accordance with IFRS. A reconciliation of Adjusted EBITDA and operating profit is available in Zoomd's MD&A located on the Company's profile at www.sedar.com which is incorporated by reference into this press release.

DISCLAIMER IN REGARD TO FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

This news release includes certain "forward-looking statements" under applicable Canadian securities legislation. Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to Zoomd's future outlook, its future ability to successfully continue its growth, its ability to improve profitability as a result of the corporate restructuring plan, as well as its ability to continue expanding into new geographies and industries. Forward-looking statements are based on our current assumptions, estimates, expectations and projections that, while considered reasonable, are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors that may cause the actual results and future events to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such factors include but are not limited to general business, economic, competitive, technological, legal, privacy matters, political and social uncertainties (including the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and the current war in Ukraine), the extent and duration of which are uncertain at this time on Zoomd's business and general economic and business conditions and markets. There can be no assurance that any of the forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether because of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.

The reader should not place undue importance on forward-looking information and should not rely upon this information as of any other date. All forward-looking information contained in this press release is expressly qualified in its entirety by this cautionary statement.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT:



Company Media Contacts:

Amit Bohensky

Chairman

Zoomd

ir@zoomd.com

www.zoomd.com

Investor relations:

Lytham Partners, LLC

Ben Shamsian

New York | Phoenix

ZOMD@lythampartners.com

[1] Adjusted EBITDA is a Non-GAAP performance measure. Refer to "CAUTION REGARDING NON-IFRS FINANCIAL MEASURES" for further details.

Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1039696/Zoomd_Logo.jpg

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/zoomd-technologies-reports-second-quarter-2023-financial-results-and-management-update-301912149.html
Huma aims to further support patients and the healthcare workforce by enhancing its regulated Software as Medical Device (SaMD) platform with the addition of generative AI applications

Huma is leveraging Google Cloud's Vertex AI platform and exploring the use of other Google GenAI tools such as Med-PaLM 2

Huma and Google Cloud are pursuing the safe, responsible and meaningful integration of generative AI in healthcare

NEW YORK, Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Huma Therapeutics ("Huma"), a leading global digital health company, today announced it will use Google Cloud's generative AI (GenAI) to enhance Huma's regulated disease management platform. Huma is also exploring the use of Google's GenAI tools, including Med-PaLM 2, a large language model specialised for the medical domain, to support healthcare professionals (HCPs) with better insights to optimise care delivery.

Huma's technology platform captures a range of vital signs, biomarkers and patient-reported data that are displayed on an HCP dashboard. This allows HCPs to care for many more patients than they would be able to in person, helping to alleviate workforce pressures and expand access to healthcare1. There are additional, significant efficiencies to be gained by reducing administrative tasks that take away valuable time from delivering patient-centric care and GenAI will be used to automate the generation of clinical summary reports from incoming data and surface relevant information for review in order to improve the documentation and triaging processes.

Huma's platform gathers a wealth of real-world data that hold crucial clinical insights related to disease progression, deterioration, and potential new diagnoses. However, these insights can sometimes go unnoticed. Combining GenAI with human oversight has the potential to harness the full transformative power of this data and deliver the predictive, personalised care that will greatly benefit both health systems and patients.

GenAI will also help solve the challenge of patient engagement. Chronic disease management is intricate, and patients need support and guidance to navigate through complex treatment pathways. Yet, there is limited access to care providers. By leveraging GenAI, communication between patients and providers can be streamlined, allowing individually tailored care plans and personalised "nudges," -ultimately delivering a more delightful patient experience which can lead to improved outcomes.

A Huma-n in the loop

Huma is well positioned to evaluate the value GenAI applications can bring to healthcare in a safe manner with a "human in the loop"- in this case, a qualified nurse or a clinician who can assess, validate, and adjust any AI outputs with appropriate guardrails in place. Huma's platform currently uses AI models to analyse patient data and provide insights that can help clinicians make better decisions.

Now, with Google Cloud's Vertex AI and other GenAI tools, Huma can develop a pipeline of use cases to make the platform even more impactful for providers and patients to drive better care delivery and outcomes.

Dan Vahdat, Huma CEO & Founder, said: "Huma is committed to making healthcare accessible and affordable for everyone and GenAI will play a crucial role in this equitable access. Our new GenAI applications will help mitigate the pressures on the healthcare workforce that exist worldwide and will reduce burnout in overworked staff. We are committed to the safe and responsible introduction of GenAI into healthcare and will ensure that Huma-ns are kept in the loop, meaning that HCPs will retain control of these health technologies."

Aashima Gupta, global director of Healthcare Strategy and Solutions, Google Cloud, said: "In a world where healthcare professionals are constantly striving to provide the best care for their patients, GenAI can be a valuable ally to lighten the load. It is not about just reducing cognitive burden; but also enhancing the personalisation of care. By incorporating AI into its disease management platform, Huma can empower its experts to focus on more complex tasks by automating repetitive ones. For example, gen AI can generate draft responses to member inquiries and requests, which Huma's experts can then review and edit as needed. This frees up Huma's experts to spend more time on tasks that require human judgement and expertise. This approach, which involves human oversight, ensures that GenAI capabilities are safe and effective."

Dr Mert Aral, Chief Medical Officer, Huma, said: "Capacity constraints, compounded by staff shortages, continue to be critical challenges across healthcare systems. As a pioneer in digital health, it is incumbent on Huma to help where it can. We are tremendously excited about this partnership and the opportunity to explore how we can harness the power of Med-PaLM 2, assessing it across different use cases to drive better triaging and care optimisation for patients. At the same time, it is paramount that these AI tools are implemented in a responsible and safe manner. Cross-sectoral collaboration will be the key to unlocking this immense potential, ushering in a new era of care delivery that is more efficient, effective and deeply Huma-n-centric."

References

1. Po-Yin Yen et al, (2018) Nurses' Time Allocation and Multitasking of Nursing Activities: A Time Motion Study AMIA Annu Symp Proc.: 1137-1146

About Huma

Huma Therapeutics is a global digital health technology company that advances digital-first care delivery and research to help people live longer, fuller lives. Its award-winning modular platforms are used by more than 3,000 hospitals and clinics, with over 31.5 million active users in healthcare and over 650,000 participants across research.

Huma's technology powers:

multi-channel patient engagement at population-wide scale for healthcare systems

remote patient monitoring (RPM) at scale

companion apps to support patients through treatment and drug therapies

digital clinical trials, including decentralised trials, to accelerate medical research

Huma's regulated Software as a Medical Device, used in its RPM and companion app platforms, is the only disease- and device- agnostic platform to hold EU MDR Class IIb, US FDA (510-k) Class II clearance and Class IIb registration with the UK MHRA. The SaMD platform is regulated to accept artificial intelligence algorithms and monitor patients of all ages.

Please visit www.huma.com and follow us on LinkedIn at Huma

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1427908/Huma_Logo.jpg

Media contact

Karen Birmingham PhD

Head of PR & Communications, Huma

karen.birmingham@huma.com

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/huma-collaborates-with-google-cloud-to-improve-healthcare-through-generative-ai-301912392.html
Travelshift, the leading online travel agency (OTA) in Iceland has raised $10 million USD of capital from existing shareholders, raising the total funding amount to $30 million USD.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230829071571/en/

David Byron Stewart, the CEO of Travelshift and former Head of Global Private Equity at State Street Global Advisors (Photo: Business Wire)

The financing represents a vote of confidence from Travelshift's current investors in the company's growth trajectory and future potential. According to Harshal Chaudhari, President and Chief Investment Officer at GE Investment Management Co., "We are proud to continue supporting Travelshift's remarkable journey. The company's unwavering commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction has been instrumental in its success, and we firmly believe in its potential to further disrupt the leisure travel industry."

The latest funding round follows Travelshift's recent launch of Guide to Europe, a travel platform that solves the Connected Trip for the European leisure travel market. This innovative service, which is powered by AI, allows travelers to book everything they need in one checkout and manage their entire journey in one app. It also gives travelers access to thousands of itineraries that have been optimized with AI, with what is now the world's largest selection of vacation packages in Europe.

"We are thrilled to receive the continued support and trust from our existing shareholders," said David Stewart, CEO of Travelshift. "This financing round enables us to accelerate our growth initiatives and continue to build the next generation of travel through innovative use and application of AI to deliver personalized and seamless travel experiences."

Travelshift would like to express its sincere gratitude to its dedicated team, loyal customers, and steadfast shareholders for their continued support and belief in the company's vision.

About Travelshift:

Travelshift is an leading Icelandic online travel agency (OTA) that specializes in providing technology-driven travel solutions. With over a decade of experience in the industry, Travelshift is committed to revolutionizing how people travel, offering innovative services and exceptional customer experiences.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230829071571/en/

Contacts:

For media inquiries or further information, please contact:

David Stewart

Chief Executive Officer

Email: dave@travelshift.com

Phone: +354 791 9394
Will provide its Cerberus XL counter-drone surveillance platform to identify and track unmanned aerial threats

Teledyne FLIR Defense, part of Teledyne Technologies Incorporated (NYSE:TDY), has signed a contract with Kongsberg Defence Aerospace, Norway, valued at roughly $31 million to provide its Cerberus XL mobile counter-unmanned aerial system (UAS) as part of a total C-UAS solution for Ukraine. The agreement includes delivery of the surveillance platforms as well as software, spares, support and training.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230829168752/en/

Teledyne FLIR Defense has signed a contract with Kongsberg Defence Aerospace, Norway, to provide its Cerberus XL mobile counter-unmanned aerial system (UAS) as part of a total C-UAS solution for Ukraine's military. Cerberus XL combines an advanced thermal/visual imaging system with highly sensitive radar sensors onto a mobile platform to rapidly locate and track UAS targets. (Photo: Business Wire)

Kongsberg recently signed an agreement with the International Fund for Ukraine (IFU) to deliver counter-drone systems that will be donated to the war-torn nation. The IFU was established by the UK and international partners to identify and procure critical capabilities and deliver them quickly to Ukraine. Norway and the UK are among many nations that have contributed to the fund.

Cerberus XL combines an advanced thermal/visual imaging system with highly sensitive radar sensors onto a mobile platform to rapidly locate and track UAS targets. Kongsberg then feeds information from Cerberus into its remote weapons station to disable and defeat the threat.

"Teledyne FLIR is proud to partner with Kongsberg in delivering our next-generation Cerberus XL as part of a complete and robust system to protect Ukraine's warfighters," said Dr. JihFen Lei, executive vice president and general manager of Teledyne FLIR Defense. "We have a long history of providing state-of-the-art imaging solutions to Kongsberg, and this important joint effort only strengthens our relationship."

In addition to the Cerberus systems, Teledyne FLIR is supporting Ukraine's defense with other advanced military technology, including its Black Hornet nano-drone. The Black Hornet 3 is currently being used by Ukrainian forces through donations made by the British and Norwegian governments.

To learn more about Teledyne FLIR's counter-UAS solutions, visit us online.

About Teledyne FLIR

Teledyne FLIR, a Teledyne Technologies company, is a world leader in intelligent sensing, unmanned systems, and integrated solutions for defense and industrial markets, with roughly 4,000 employees worldwide. Founded in 1978, the company develops a wide range of advanced technologies to help professionals make better, faster decisions that save lives and livelihoods. To learn more, visit teledyneflir.com or follow @flir. AnyThreatAnywhere

About Teledyne Technologies

Teledyne Technologies is a leading provider of sophisticated digital imaging products and software, instrumentation, aerospace and defense electronics, and engineered systems. Teledyne's operations are primarily located in the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, and Western and Northern Europe. For more information, visit Teledyne's website at www.teledyne.com.

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Contacts:

Joe Ailinger, Jr.

Teledyne FLIR Defense

Phone: +1 781-801-6161

Email: joe.ailinger@teledyne.com

Ryan Williams

Targeted Victory

Phone: +1 617-697-9072

Email: rwilliams@targetedvictory.com
Mumbai, Aug 29 (UNI) School of Broadcasting and Communication (SBC), a renowned institution for media education, extended a warm welcome to a distinguished delegation from the Bhutan Broadcasting Corporation Ltd. The delegation participated in an exclusive training programme organised by SBC, aimed at enhancing their expertise in the field of broadcasting and communication.

The training programme, which commenced on August 14, 2023, and concluded on August 25, 2023, took place within the dynamic environment of SBC's campus.

Under the guidance of Tushir Choudhary, Director of SBC, the programme promised to equip the Bhutan Broadcasting Corporation executives with advanced skills and insights crucial for excelling in the media industry.

Renowned industry professionals were enlisted as course mentors for this programme.guaranteeing a comprehensive and practical learning experience.

Notable mentors included Noel Keymar, Mrityunjay Bose, Sonali Naphade, Kanchan Chaudhary, Chhavi Gaur, Aastha Puri, Umair Khan, and Nimisha Sirohi.

With their wealth of knowledge and hands-on experience, these mentors imparted invaluable insights and industry best practices to the delegates.

"We are honoured to have hosted the executives from Bhutan Broadcasting Corporation Ltd. for this specialised training programme," expressed Tushir Choudhary.

"SBC is dedicated to nurturing talent and fostering industry partnerships, and we believe this collaboration has led to mutually beneficial outcomes, enhancing the broadcasting landscape in both Bhutan and India," Choudhary added.

The training programme's curriculum encompassed a diverse range of topics, including Modern broadcasting techniques, content creation, audience engagement strategies, and technological advancements shaping the industry. Through a mix of workshops,Through interactive sessions and practical assignments, the delegates gained a holistic understanding of the evolving media landscape.

UNI AAA ARN
ARKPIA at the forefront of uniting art and technology.

Collaborating with international artists, leveraging its collection of curated artworks and IP to create a seamless fusion of digital assets, virtual exhibitions, AR, physical art, and blockchain technology.

"ARKPIA Museum," a virtual exhibition space set to launch on August 29th.

The exhibit features the solo showcase and array of exhibitions of Gabriel Hollington, Sarah Beetson, and Florentijn Hofman.

By converting the creations of renowned global artists into intellectual property (IP), the art brand ARKPIA engages in a variety of activities including offline exhibitions, artwork transactions, the production of art products, collaborations with brands, etc.

To boost its global growth, ARKPIA is cooperating with well-known international artists and businesses. Notable partnerships include those of Florentijn Hofman, a Dutch installation artist well-known for his "The Rubber Duck Project" and Gabriel Hollington, a popular British illustrator notable for his collaboration with the fashion brand Vans. Collaboration artists also include Sarah Beetson, a British artist chosen by Saatchi Art in Australia for bright talent, and Ben Ouaniche, an internationally known Israeli visual artist with 1.9 million YouTube subscribers. ARKPIA is also working with the British illustrator Dan Woodger, who has created illustrations for brands like Pepsi, Apple, Samsung, McDonald's, and Amazon.

Additionally, ARKPIA plans to enter new contracts with prominent international businesses and major performers.

ARKPIA announces that its online space museum will be planned in consideration of upcoming offline exhibitions showcasing the creations and worldviews of recruited artists. "Gabriel Hollington," millennials and Generation Z's well-known artist, will feature in the first exhibition under the theme of "Sneaky Downtown." The erection of the exhibition space was planned by ARKPIA, while the technical execution was handled by Netstream. Open Worlds, Art Galleries, and Concept Halls will all feature Gabriel's humorous and vivacious works. Gabriel will reveal his inner freedom, personality, and distinct perspective, providing joy to the audience as a street artist with experience creating murals. All the exhibited artworks will be connected to blockchain and can be bought as a digital asset.

In the ever-evolving landscape of art where the boundaries are reshaped by advances in cutting-edge technology, Yohan Choi, the CEO of ARKPIA, has revealed the company's commitment to pioneering new artistic frontiers. With a strong foundation in blockchain and innovative technologies, coupled with a global reach through its own artwork-purchasing platform, ARKPIA, aims to blend its artistic creativity and artists' intellectual property to spearhead fresh ventures in the realm of art. As the technological landscape continues to reshape the art world, ARKPIA is poised to embrace these changes and push the boundaries of artistic exploration.

ARKPIA Museum is supported by Japanese GameOn, and Korean Investment Partners, NEOWIZ. They carry out various activities through GameOn in Japan, including web2, web3, offline exhibitions, merchandising, and new IP initiatives, and these are in discussion to collaborate with several major international companies.

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ARKPIA Museum

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Contacts:

ARKPIA

info@jnjohn.com

Younsu Kim VP/Director

suekim@jnjohn.com
Douro Labs Joins Network to Work on Perseus Upgrade as well as Permissionless Mainnet with Token-Led Governance

Douro Labs, a software development company dedicated to advancing the Pyth Network, officially launches today and is excited to be joining the network as the latest core contributor. The Pyth Data Association and the Pyth Network's community includes a vast network of data contributors including top trading firms, leading exchanges, and premier crypto companies globally including Cboe Global Markets, Optiver, IMC, Flow Traders, OKX, Bybit, Wintermute, QCP Capital, Auros, Susquehanna International Group, and LMAX. The Douro Labs entity will initially work to implement the Perseus Upgrade and bring the network into a permissionless mainnet with token-led governance for the fall of 2023.

Pyth Network is the largest first-party oracle for financial data. Oracles are programmatic data feeds that bring off-chain data on-chain for smart contracts to use. They are an essential component of decentralized finance (DeFi). The Pyth Network provides low-latency, high-fidelity, and tamper-resistant price data feeds directly to blockchains through a vast network of first-party data providers.

"We are thrilled to welcome Douro Labs as the newest contributor to the Pyth Network," said Marc Tillement, Director at Pyth Data Association. "The Pyth Data Association was formed with a mission to create the largest, most robust financial data marketplace for decentralized finance to build on. Thanks to a diversity of contributors and a growing ecosystem of users, the Pyth Network has quickly become the largest first-party oracle network."

Douro Labs was formed by long-time Pyth Network contributors Mike Cahill, Jayant Krishnamurthy, and Ciaran Cronin in July 2023. The company employs close to 20 individuals who previously worked at firms such as Goldman Sachs, Jump Crypto, BNP Paribas, Amazon Web Services and Chorus One. The company is focused on contributing alongside other data providers and building developer-focused oracle tooling and core protocol infrastructure.

"The Pyth Network is the fastest growing decentralized oracle, and is already becoming the go-to solution for modern DeFi applications that need cheap, lightning-fast, ultra-accurate pricing information," said Mike Cahill, CEO of Douro Labs. "At Douro Labs, we are committed to accelerating the network's continued growth and lifting up the next generation of DeFi apps that are building new tools and experiences that simply aren't possible on legacy oracle infrastructure."

"As one of the founding institutional data providers on the Pyth Network, we are pleased to see the formation of Douro Labs as a dedicated blockchain infrastructure company," said David Mercer, CEO of LMAX Group. "We look forward to supporting Douro Labs as it accelerates the development of this transformative and fundamental building block of the new financial infrastructure for both DeFi and TradFi. This expansion of capability underscores the value of democratizing the distribution of readily available, real-time and verifiable market data."

First-generation oracles rely on networks of third-party operators to source and aggregate pricing data, which is typically achieved through unauthorized scraping. Pyth Network's model eliminates slow, unreliable third-party data aggregators and replaces them with fast, first-party data providers, such as trading firms, exchanges and brokerages.

"Auros is thrilled to see the formation of Douro Labs, which furthers the mission of Pyth Network to democratize high-fidelity market data for all blockchain participants. The Auros team is a proud supporter of Pyth's vision," added Ben Roth, co-founder and CIO of Auros. "Together with the talented individuals at Douro Labs, we are committed to contributing to the advancement of Pyth's decentralized oracle solutions and the growth of the blockchain and Web3 ecosystem."

The Pyth Network supports more than 300 sub-second price feeds across major asset classes including digital assets, equities, ETFs, FX and commodities. Additionally, over 180 DeFi and CeFi applications use the Pyth Network, including projects like Synthetix, Venus, Ribbon Finance, Vela Exchange, and Solend, as do more than 30 blockchains, including but not limited to Ethereum, BNB Chain, Arbitrum, Optimism, Base, Solana, Injective, zkSync Era, Fantom, Osmosis, Aptos, Sei, Aurora, and Sui.

"Making market data accessible to investors has always been a core focus for us at IEX," said Ronan Ryan, President of IEX Group. "We look forward to seeing how the talented team behind Douro Labs will add the tooling and infrastructure needed to make the Pyth Network a go-to market data solution."

To join the Pyth Network and become a data provider, please get in touch at pyth.network. If you're interested in building applications on top of the world's fastest-growing, most innovative oracle, get started in docs at docs.pyth.network/documentation.

About Pyth Network

The Pyth Network is the largest first-party oracle for the world's financial data. It supports more than 300 real-time price feeds across major asset classes including digital assets, equities, ETFs, FX, and commodities. The network comprises some of the world's largest exchanges, market makers, and financial services providers contributing their proprietary price data on-chain for aggregation and distribution to smart contract applications. Thanks to the Pyth Network's innovative pull oracle design, applications can effortlessly "pull" the latest price onto their native blockchain on demand. In less than a year since the launch of its cross-chain pull model, the network has secured over $1B in total value. The Pyth Network has been used by DeFi protocols in over $65B in trading volume and in over 180 applications. You can learn more about the Pyth Network here and its documentation.

About Douro Labs

Douro Labs is a blockchain infrastructure company that contributes to the development and acceleration of the Pyth Network, the largest first-party financial oracle network for delivering real-time financial market data to smart contracts applications. Established in 2023, Douro Labs is building oracle tooling, products, and Web3 infrastructure that will expand the Pyth Network's suite of decentralized data services and enhance access to real-time, once-exclusive market data for all blockchain participants. To learn more about Douro Labs, please visit http://dourolabs.xyz/.

About Pyth Data Association

The Pyth Data Association is a Swiss association founded by Pyth Network participants to advance the development of the network. The Pyth Data Association is a contributor to the Pyth Network and helps facilitate protocol maintenance, ecosystem grants, and ecosystem development. To learn more about the association, please visit https://pythdataassociation.com/.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230829666281/en/

Contacts:

Carissa Felger

Gasthalter Co.

(212) 257-4170

pyth@gasthalter.com
BEIJING, Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The 2023 World Canal Cities Forum was held recently in Yangzhou, "the canal capital of the world" located in east China's Jiangsu Province.

Themed on "Canal Cities Heritage Protection, Green and Low Carbon Development", the forum attracted over 600 participants from home and abroad.

The forum aims to not only strengthen cultural heritage protection of the Grand Canal and ecological environment protection and ecological restoration of canal cities, but also promote the integrated development of the cultural and tourism sectors in canal cities.

Shao Hong, vice-chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), noted that this forum responds to common challenges facing the economic development of canal cities in today's era, fits the common vision of canal cities, and will surely inject new impetus for promoting humanistic exchanges and cooperation and green and low-carbon development of the world's canal cities, and realizing common prosperity.

Xin Changxing, Party chief of Jiangsu Province, said that the Grand Canal is a long-lasting cultural root, nourishing Chinese civilization on the land of Jiangsu; the Grand Canal is a ecological green vein, steering the ecological civilization in Jiangsu from concept to practice; the Grand Canal is a vivid economic artery, actively empowering the high-quality development of the province.

Focusing on amplifying the brand effect of "the canal capital of the world", Yangzhou will strive to make the Yangzhou section of the Grand Canal add lustre to China's Grand Canal, and make new and greater contributions to the construction of the Grand Canal cultural belt and the national cultural park, Wang Jinjian, Party chief of Yangzhou, said at the forum.

Besides, the "Yangzhou initiative" dedicated to enhancing heritage protection as well as promoting green and low-carbon development of the world's canal cities was put forward during the forum.

It is learned that about 54 projects worth over 20 billion yuan (about 2.74 billion U.S. dollars) were signed at the sub-forum of the event.

Original link: https://en.imsilkroad.com/p/335831.html

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Halifax, Nova Scotia--(Newsfile Corp. - August 29, 2023) - Ucore Rare Metals Inc. (TSXV: UCU) (OTCQX: UURAF) ("Ucore" or the "Company") is pleased to announce a visit of staff from the United States Embassy in Canada to its RapidSX Commercial Demonstration Facility ("CDF") in Kingston, Ontario. This visit underscores the strategic importance of Ucore's innovative technology in rare earth element ("REE") processing and the potential for international collaboration in advancing sustainable resource solutions, and it builds on the Company's recent cross-border announcement of a $4M award from the U.S. Department of Defense's Industrial Base Analysis and Sustainment ("IBAS") Program.

The U.S. Embassy representatives were given an exclusive tour of Ucore's CDF, where they had the opportunity to see the Company's cutting-edge 52-Stage RapidSX Demonstration Plant ("Demo Plant") capable of tonnes of REE separation and the Company's conventional solvent extraction ("SX") pilot plant - built for the express purpose of technically and economically comparing the two technologies utilizing the same SX chemistry, stages and feedstock.

Figure 1 - From left to right, Ucore's VP & COO, Mike Schrider, and U.S. Embassy Ottawa Staff

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/1119/178839_c2fc6ac6b4d77b85_001full.jpg

"We were thrilled to welcome the U.S. Embassy staff to our Kingston Demo Plant," said Mike Schrider, P.E., VP & COO of Ucore. "This visit underscores the significance of our work in the rare earth minerals sector and highlights our dedication to pioneering eco-friendly resource solutions. We believe that collaborations on an international level will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of sustainable technologies and strengthen our position of applying pioneering technological breakthroughs to bolster our forthcoming commercial rare earth separation facility in Alexandria, Louisiana."

During the visit, the parties discussed the Company's technological advancements, supply chain transparency, and the pivotal role of rare earth elements in enabling the transition to a sustainable and green economy. The interaction highlighted the alignment between Ucore's mission to get to commercialization and international efforts to address environmental challenges through innovative solutions.

"We appreciate the opportunity to showcase our RapidSX Commercial Demonstration Facility to the U.S. Embassy's staff," said Dr. Ahmad Hussein, Ucore Advisory Board Member and Government Liason. "The Company is working to raise awareness of our work in Kingston and Alexandria across the Canadian and United States governments and looks forward to other planned government entity visits as we strengthen the critical metals supply chain across North America."

Ucore's work in developing an REE supply chain aligns with the broader international agenda to secure reliable supplies of critical minerals essential for modern technologies, including clean energy and defence systems. The Company's pioneering efforts in rare earth element separation are contributing to global efforts to enhance REE resource security and reduce environmental impacts.

The Company is also pleased to announce that it has received the final acceptance of the TSX Venture Exchange ("TSXV") for the issuance of bonus warrants in connection with a previously-announced Secured Credit Facility Agreement (the "2023 Facility") with Orca Holdings, LLC ("Orca") in the amount of up to US$1 million.

In consideration for the granting of the 2023 Facility, the Company has issued 1,000,000 non-transferable common share purchase warrants (the "Bonus Warrants") to Orca, with each Bonus Warrant entitling the holder to acquire one common share of the Company at an exercise price of $1.20 per share. The Bonus Warrants will expire on May 9, 2024, and are subject to a hold period ending on December 26, 2023. Orca is wholly owned by Mr. Randy Johnson, a member of Ucore's Board of Directors. The transaction is considered a related party transaction within Multilateral Instrument 61-01 Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions ("MI 61-101"). The transaction is exempt from the formal valuation and minority shareholder approval requirements of MI 61-101 as neither the fair market value of the subject matter of the transaction nor the consideration paid exceeds 25% of the Company's market capitalization.

For additional information regarding the 2023 Facility and the Bonus Warrants, please see the Company's press release dated May 10, 2023, also available on SEDAR+.

# # #

About Ucore Rare Metals Inc.

Ucore is focused on rare- and critical-metal resources, extraction, beneficiation, and separation technologies with the potential for production, growth, and scalability. Ucore's vision and plan is to become a leading advanced technology company, providing best-in-class metal separation products and services to the mining and mineral extraction industry.

Through strategic partnerships, this plan includes disrupting the People's Republic of China's control of the North American REE supply chain through the near-term development of a heavy and light rare-earth processing facility in the U.S. State of Louisiana, subsequent Strategic Metal Complexes in Canada and Alaska and the longer-term development of Ucore's 100% controlled Bokan-Dotson Ridge Rare Heavy REE Project on Prince of Wales Island in Southeast Alaska, USA.

Ucore is listed on the TSXV under the trading symbol "UCU" and in the United States on the OTC Markets' OTCQX Best Market under the ticker symbol "UURAF."

For further information, please visit www.ucore.com/corporateupdate.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release includes certain statements that may be deemed "forward-looking statements." All statements in this release (other than statements of historical facts) that address future business development, technological development and/or acquisition activities (including any related required financings), timelines, events, or developments that the Company is pursuing are forward-looking statements. Although the Company believes the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements are not guarantees of future performance or results, and actual results or developments may differ materially from those in forward-looking statements.

Regarding the disclosure in the press release above about the IBAS Program and the expected successful progress of this project and the resulting milestone payments from the DoD, the Company has assumed that the project (including each of its milestones) will be completed in a satisfactory manner and in a reasonable period of time - within approximately the next two years. For additional risks and uncertainties regarding the Company, the CDF, the Demo Plant and the Project (generally), see the risk disclosure in the Company's MD&A for Q1 2023 (filed on SEDAR on May 30, 2023) (www.SEDAR.com) as well as the risks described below.

Regarding the disclosure above in the "About Ucore Rare Metals Inc." section, the Company has assumed that it will be able to procure or retain additional partners and/or suppliers, in addition to Innovation Metals Corp. ("IMC"), as suppliers for Ucore's expected future Strategic Metals Complexes ("SMCs"). Ucore has also assumed that sufficient external funding will be found to complete the Demo Plant commissioning and demonstration schedule and also later prepare a new National Instrument 43-101 ("NI 43-101") technical report that demonstrates that the Bokan Mountain Rare Earth Element project ("Bokan") is feasible and economically viable for the production of both REE and co-product metals and the then prevailing market prices based upon assumed customer offtake agreements. Ucore has also assumed that sufficient external funding will be secured to continue the development of the specific engineering plans for the SMCs and their construction. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in forward-looking statements include, without limitation: IMC failing to protect its intellectual property rights in RapidSX; RapidSX failing to demonstrate commercial viability in large commercial-scale applications; Ucore not being able to procure additional key partners or suppliers for the SMCs; Ucore not being able to raise sufficient funds to fund the specific design and construction of the SMCs and/or the continued development of RapidSX; adverse capital-market conditions; unexpected due-diligence findings; the emergence of alternative superior metallurgy and metal-separation technologies; the inability of Ucore and/or IMC to retain its key staff members; a change in the legislation in Louisiana or Alaska and/or in the support expressed by the Alaska Industrial Development and Export Authority ("AIDEA") regarding the development of Bokan; the availability and procurement of any required interim and/or long-term financing that may be required; and general economic, market or business conditions.

Neither the TSXV nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined by the TSXV) accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

CONTACTS

Mr. Michael Schrider, P.E., Ucore Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, is responsible for the content of this news release and may be contacted at 1.902.482.5214.

For additional information, please contact:

Mark MacDonald

Vice President, Investor Relations

Ucore Rare Metals Inc.

1.902.482.5214

mark@ucore.com

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/178839
BEIJING--(BUSINESS WIRE)--InnoCare Pharma (HKEX: 09969; SSE: 688428), a leading biopharmaceutical company focusing on cancer and autoimmune diseases, today announced 2023 interim results as of 30 June 2023.

Financial Highlights

Revenue increased by 53.5% year-on-year to 377.5 million 1 in the first half of 2023, compared to 246.0 million in the first half of 2022. Sales of orelabrutinib increased by 47.8% YoY to 320.7 million in the first half of 2023, compared to 217.0 million in the first half of 2022. The significant increase resulted from the continuous growth of orelabrutinib after its inclusion in the National Reimbursement Drug List (NRDL).

increased by 53.5% year-on-year to 377.5 million in the first half of 2023, compared to 246.0 million in the first half of 2022. Sales of orelabrutinib increased by 47.8% YoY to 320.7 million in the first half of 2023, compared to 217.0 million in the first half of 2022. The significant increase resulted from the continuous growth of orelabrutinib after its inclusion in the National Reimbursement Drug List (NRDL). Research and development expenses increased by 30.9% YoY to 358.1 million in the first half of 2023 from 273.5 million in the first half of 2022, primarily due to the advancement of numerous clinical trials, including global multi-center trials.

increased by 30.9% YoY to 358.1 million in the first half of 2023 from 273.5 million in the first half of 2022, primarily due to the advancement of numerous clinical trials, including global multi-center trials. Cash and cash equivalents 2 reached 8.7 billion as of 30 June 2023, compared with 6.6 billion as of 30 June 2022, primarily due to the successful STAR Board listing on Sept. 21, 2022.

reached 8.7 billion as of 30 June 2023, compared with 6.6 billion as of 30 June 2022, primarily due to the successful STAR Board listing on Sept. 21, 2022. The adjusted loss for the first half of 2023 as illustrated under Non-HKFRSs3 measures narrowed to 206.3 million.

Accelerating Pipeline Development in Stage 2.0

InnoCare marked its 8th anniversary on August 18, 2023. For the past eight years, the Company has concentrated on addressing significant market needs in cancer and autoimmune diseases, establishing a comprehensive biopharmaceutical platform with robust in-house research, clinical development, manufacturing, and commercialization strengths. The flagship product, orelabrutinib, has received marketing approval in China and Singapore and has been included in China's NRDL. Additionally, the tafasitamab regimen has secured approval in Hong Kong and Bo'ao, complemented by 13 innovative drugs currently in clinical trials.

In the rapid expansion of Stage 2.0, InnoCare plans to accelerate global clinical trials and research capabilities, with the goal of introducing five to six innovative drugs onto the market within three to five years.

InnoCare's innovative drug pipeline covers multiple novel targets and indications with significant market potential, including small molecule drugs, monoclonal antibodies, and bispecific antibodies for the treatment of blood tumors, autoimmune diseases, and solid tumors.

Building A Leading Franchise in Hemato-Oncology

With orelabrutinib (BTK inhibitor) serving as the backbone therapy and a key component of InnoCare's extensive pipeline in hemato-oncology - including tafasitamab (anti-CD19 antibody), ICP-248 (BCL2 inhibitor), ICP-B02 (CD20xCD3 bispecific antibody), ICP-490 (CRBN E3 Ligase modulator), and potential future developments from internal and external sources - InnoCare strives to become a leading player in hemato-oncology both in China and worldwide. Orelabrutinib's exceptional safety and efficacy profiles promise synergistic benefits when combined with other pipeline drugs, such as ICP-248 (BCL2 inhibitor). InnoCare intends to address various segments, such as non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL), multiple myeloma (MM), and leukemia, utilizing both single and combination therapies. Particularly, InnoCare has designed a comprehensive combination therapy toolkit aimed at providing effective solutions for diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL).

Orelabrutinib

Orelabrutinib was approved by the National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) for the treatment of relapsed/refractory marginal zone lymphoma (r/r MZL) in April 2023. Orelabrutinib has thus become the first and only BTK inhibitor for r/r MZL in China , which also marks orelabrutinib's third indication approved in China.

, which also marks orelabrutinib's third indication approved in China. Patient enrollment of the Phase III registrational trial of orelabrutinib for first-line treatment of chronic lymphocytic leukemia/small lymphocytic lymphoma (CLL/SLL) was completed in China in the first half of 2023 . The Company expects to submit the NDA in 2024 .

of the Phase III registrational trial of orelabrutinib for first-line treatment of chronic lymphocytic leukemia/small lymphocytic lymphoma (CLL/SLL) was completed in China . The Company . In the U.S., patient enrollment of the Phase II registrational trial for relapsed/refractory mantle cell lymphoma (r/r MCL) was completed. The Company expects to submit the NDA to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (US FDA) in the middle of 2024 .

. Orelabrutinib was approved by the Health Sciences Authority (HSA) of Singapore for the treatment of adult patients with r/r MCL, which marks InnoCare's entrance onto international commercial markets.

for the treatment of adult patients with r/r MCL, which marks InnoCare's entrance onto international commercial markets. Differentiated development strategy for DLBCL A registrational study of orelabrutinib for the first-line treatment of MCD DLBCL is ongoing in 45 cities in China. As of the data of released at the 2022 American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO), orelabrutinib-containing regimens demonstrated encouraging efficacy and well-tolerated safety profile among patients with MCD DLBCL 4 . A comprehensive tool-kit including orelabrutinib, tafasitamab, ICP-B02, ICP-490 and ICP-248 offers a unique position to treat all stages of DLBCL patients with combination therapies.



Tafasitamab

Patient enrollment of the registrational trial of tafasitamab in combination with lenalidomide for the treatment of r/r DLBCL was completed in China. The Company expects to submit the biologics license application (BLA) in the second quarter of 2024 and anticipate BLA approval in the first half of 2025 .

. The first prescription of tafasitamab in combination with lenalidomide was filled at the Ruijin Hainan Hospital at Bo'ao.

Tafasitamab in combination with lenalidomide was approved by the Department of Health, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China , which will extend to DLBCL patients in the Greater Bay Area.

, which will extend to DLBCL patients in the Greater Bay Area. Final five-year results of the Phase II L-MIND study were presented at the 2023 AACR Annual Meeting and showed prolonged, durable responses in r/r DLBCL patients treated with the tafasitamab regimen.

As of this announcement, tafasitamab has been included in the overseas special drug list in 23 provinces and cities in mainland China including Shanghai, Hainan province, etc.

ICP-248

The Phase I dose escalation trial is underway. The preliminary results demonstrated good safety profile and achieved favorable pharmacokinetic (PK) with high exposure at relatively low dose level, demonstrating differentiation from other BCL2 inhibitor. So far, four patients were dosed, and among the three patients evaluated, two achieved complete response (CR) with undetectable minimal residual disease (uMRD). The study result would potentially support combination therapy with orelabrutinib in the first line treatment of CLL/SLL, which could become an important asset for the Company's globalization. The Company expects to submit an investigational new drug (IND) application in the U.S. within this year.

So far, four patients were dosed, and among the three patients evaluated, two achieved complete response (CR) with undetectable minimal residual disease (uMRD). The study result would potentially The Company expects to submit an investigational new drug (IND) application in the U.S. within this year. ICP-248 is a novel, orally bioavailable BCL2 selective inhibitor, developed as single drug or in combination with orelabrutinib for the treatment of CLL, MCL, follicular lymphoma (FL), DLBCL and other hematological malignancies.

ICP-B02 (CM355)

ICP-B02 is a CD20xCD3 bispecific antibody co-developed with Keymed. In the Phase I dose escalation study, the dose escalation of intravenous infusion (IV) cohort was completed with no dose-limiting toxicities (DLTs) observed. In the meantime, the first subcutaneous (SC) cohort was completed with no DLTs observed so far.

Preliminary data of both IV and SC formulations has shown good efficacy in patients with FL and DLBCL. Further registration strategy is being developed.

ICP-490

ICP-490 was developed from InnoCare's molecular glue platform for the treatment of MM and NHL. In the Phase I dose escalation study, preliminary results demonstrated immune modulation activity through the shift of peripheral T-cell subsets activation.

ICP-490 shows strong potential to revolutionize MM treatment and further promise in hemato-oncology therapeutics as a mono therapy or in combination with others.

Developing B-cell and T-cell Pathways in Autoimmune Diseases

The Company has fortified its powerful discovery engine in the global frontier targets for the development of differentiated autoimmune therapeutics through B-cell and T-cell pathways for the purpose of providing the first-in-class or best-in-class treatments to the massive unmet medical needs with a promising market potential in global and/or regional markets.

Orelabrutinib

The Company has achieved proof of concept (PoC) of orelabrutinib for the treatment of primary immune thrombocytopenia purpura (ITP) and the Phase III registrational trial is ongoing in China . The latest data showed that 40% of patients met primary endpoint at 50mg. And patients with previous response to glucocorticoids (GC) or intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) were analyzed as a sub-group, 75.0% patients at the 50mg achieved the primary endpoint .

ITP is the most common autoimmune hemorrhagic disease characterized by a decrease in peripheral blood platelet counts, resulting in an increased risk of bleeding and a decreased quality of life.

. The latest data showed that 40% of patients met primary endpoint at 50mg. And patients with previous response to glucocorticoids (GC) or intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) were analyzed as a sub-group, at the 50mg . ITP is the most common autoimmune hemorrhagic disease characterized by a decrease in peripheral blood platelet counts, resulting in an increased risk of bleeding and a decreased quality of life. The Phase IIa trial for systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) demonstrated positive results, with remarkable SLE Responder Index (SRI)-4 response rates observed in a dose dependent manner, along with trends indicating a reduction in proteinuria levels. A Phase IIb trial has been initiated to encompass a larger population in China, and the Company expects to complete patient enrollment in the first half of 2024, and finish the interim analysis by the end of 2024.

A Phase IIb trial has been initiated to encompass a larger population in China, and the Company expects to complete The 24-week data of orelabrutinib from the multiple sclerosis (MS) global Phase II trial is consistent with the previous reported 12-week data in terms of both efficacy and safety. The primary endpoint was achieved dose-dependently (Cmax driven) in all three active orelabrutinib treatment groups. Notably, a 92.3% relative reduction was achieved in cumulative number of new gadolinium (Gd) + T1 lesions at week 24 at 80mg QD compared to placebo arm (switched to orelabrutinib 50mg QD after Week 12). This reduction stands out as a leading efficacy indicator of efficacy when compared to other MS therapies that are approved or in developmental stages. All orelabrutinib groups achieved T1 new lesion control after 4 weeks of treatment and the effect is sustained up to 24 weeks . The 80 mg QD cohort showed the highest reduction rate of cumulative number of new lesions Gd+T1 lesions and the best for lesion control throughout 24 weeks with best safety profile, indicating its potential as a leading MS treatment therapy .

The Phase II clinical trial for the treatment of neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) is ongoing in China and the Company is potentially further exploring the treatment of chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU).

ICP-332

Phase I data demonstrated a dose proportional and favorable PK profile, no observation of significant food effect, and well tolerated and good safety profile. InnoCare initiated a Phase II study of ICP-332 in atopic dermatitis (AD) with a data readout expected by the end of 2023.

ICP-332 is a potent and selective TYK2 JH1 inhibitor that is being developed for the treatment of various autoimmune disorders, with 400 folds of selectivity against JAK2.

According to the source of Pharma Intelligence, AD has become a major autoimmune disease with a global market potential of US$10 billion by 20305.

ICP-488

InnoCare is accelerating the ongoing Phase I study of ICP-488 with psoriasis patients, and preliminary PoC is expected by the last quarter of 2023 . The Phase II study for psoriasis is in preparation.

. The Phase II study for psoriasis is in preparation. In Phase I clinical trial with healthy subjects, the single ascending doses (SAD) and multiple ascending doses (MAD) have been completed with ICP-488, demonstrating a well-tolerated safety profile.

Data shows that 100 million people worldwide are affected by various types of psoriasis6.

Building Competitive Drug Portfolio for Solid Tumor Treatment

InnoCare strives to expand the breadth of our pipeline, covering solid tumor diseases areas, through a combination of targeted therapy and immune-oncology approaches. The Company believes the potential best-in-class molecules, ICP-192 and ICP-723, will enable us to establish a solid footprint in the field of solid tumor treatment. To benefit a broader range of patients, InnoCare's rapidly maturing early-stage pipeline, including the cornerstone therapy ICP-189 and ICP-B05, and ICP-033 immune-oncology treatment, should enable the Company to provide competitive treatment solutions for a large array of solid tumors for both China and global patients.

ICP-723 (Zurletrectinib)

InnoCare is accelerating the registrational trial of zurletrectinib in China and expecting to submit NDA by end of 2024 .

. A favorable efficacy of 80-90% ORR was observed in adult patients with various cancers carrying NTRK gene fusion who received =8 mg dosages.

was observed in adult patients with various cancers carrying NTRK gene fusion who received =8 mg dosages. Zurletrectinib was shown to overcome acquired resistance to the first generation TRK inhibitors, bringing hope for patients who failed prior TRKi therapy.

bringing hope for patients who failed prior TRKi therapy. The Company is conducting clinical trial of zurletrectinib to treat pediatric patients (2 to 12 years old) and adolescent patients (12 to 18 years old) after showing good safety and efficacy in adult patients.

ICP-192 (Gunagratinib)

InnoCare is accelerating the registrational trial of gunagratinib in China.

The latest data of gunagratinib in patients with cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) was presented at 2023 ASCO-GI7. Gunagratinib is safe and well-tolerated with high response rate (52.9%) compared to other approved FGFR inhibitors in previously treated patients with locally advanced or metastatic CCA harboring FGR2 gene fusions or rearrangements.

ICP-189

InnoCare and ArriVent reached a clinical development collaboration to evaluate the anti-tumor activity and safety of the combination of InnoCare's novel SHP2 allosteric inhibitor, ICP-189, with ArriVent's furmonertinib in patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). NSCLC is the predominant subtype of lung cancer, accounting for approximately 85% of all cases 8 .

The Novel SHP2 allosteric inhibitor ICP-189 is developed for the treatment of solid tumors as a single agent and/or in combination with other antitumor agents. As of this announcement, the dosage has been escalated up to 120 mg with no DLT observed and a favorable PK profile with a long half-life has been demonstrated. Preliminary efficacy was observed in ICP-189 monotherapy. One patient with cervical cancer in the 20 mg dose cohort achieved confirmed PR.

ICP-B05 (CM369)

Two cohorts of ICP-B05 were completed with no DLT observed. The preliminary results demonstrate favorable PK profile and PD biomarker Treg depletion was observed.

As the potential first-in-class, the drug is developed as a monotherapy or combined with other therapies to treat advanced solid tumors, including lung cancer, digestive tract cancer, etc.

Other Corporate Development

InnoCare was approved by the Hong Kong Stock Exchange to remove "B" from the stock code from May 12, 2023. This is another important milestone in the Company's development.

After getting approval of commercial production, InnoCare Guangzhou quickly realized the production of orelabrutinib off the production line, which has been provided to patients in 30 provinces, including Beijing, Guangdong and Jiangsu, marking InnoCare realize the whole industry chain platform from in-house research and development to production.

The Ministry of Industry and Information Technology completed the examination of fifth batch of "Technologically-advanced Small Giant" and announced the approved list of the enterprises. InnoCare was among the list with its strong innovation capabilities and market competitiveness in the biopharmaceutical sector.

Dr. Jasmine, the Co-founder, Chairwoman and CEO of InnoCare, said, "In the past eight years, we have achieved series of milestones and established a solid foundation for long-term development in the future. In the next five years, we will achieve significant growth in the 2.0 stage. We will continue to benchmark with international standard, upgrade innovation, and accelerate development to launch more innovative drugs to benefit patients around the world. At the same time, we will continue to strengthen our commercialization capabilities, expand our global presence, comprehensively upgrade our capabilities in various fields, and develop InnoCare into a world-leading biopharmaceutical company."

To know more about the detailed financial data and business update of InnoCare 2023 interim results, please log in https://cn.innocarepharma.com/en/investor-relations/ .

Conference Call Information

InnoCare will host a conference call at 9:30 a.m. Beijing time in Chinese and at 8:00 p.m. Beijing time in English on August 30, 2023. Participants must register in advance of the conference call. Details are as follows:

For Chinese conference call, please register through the below link: https://morganstanley.cnwebcasts.cn/starthere.jsp?ei=1627247&tp_key=647b0cba5d

For English conference call, please register through the below link: https://goldmansachs.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_etw2n2DjSuO19Y2D31yjhg

Forward-looking Statement

This report contains the disclosure of some forward-looking statements. Except for statements of facts, all other statements can be regarded as forward-looking statements, that is, about our or our management's intentions, plans, beliefs, or expectations that will or may occur in the future. Such statements are assumptions and estimates made by our management based on its experience and knowledge of historical trends, current conditions, expected future development and other related factors. This forward-looking statement does not guarantee future performance, and actual results, development and business decisions may not match the expectations of the forward-looking statement. Our forward-looking statements are also subject to a large number of risks and uncertainties, which may affect our short-term and long-term performance.

About InnoCare

InnoCare is a commercial stage biopharmaceutical company committed to discovering, developing, and commercializing first-in-class and/or best-in-class drugs for the treatment of cancer and autoimmune diseases with unmet medical needs in China and worldwide. InnoCare has branches in Beijing, Nanjing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Hong Kong, and United States.

_______________________

1 Currency in the financial highlights refers to RMB

2 Cash and cash equivalents refer to cash and bank balance, financial assets measured at fair value through profit or loss and interest receivable.

3 Non-HKFRSs: Excluding unrealized exchange loss and share-based compensation expenses.

4 2022 ASCO Abstract

5 Pharma Intelligence

6 Progress in Epidemiological Investigation of Psoriasis, Diagnostic Theory and Practice. 2021. ?????????????,?????????2021.

7 2023 ASCO GI Abstract

8 Cancer-free

Contacts

Media

Chunhua Lu

86-10-66609879

chunhua.lu@innocarepharma.com

Investor Relations



86-10-66609999

ir@innocarepharma.com
VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Aug. 29, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- BIGG Digital Assets Inc. ("BIGG" or the "Company") (CSE: BIGG; OTCQX: BBKCF; WKN: A2PS9W), owner of Netcoins , Blockchain Intelligence Group , an investor in TerraZero Technologies Inc . ("TerraZero"), a vertically integrated Metaverse development group and leading web3 technology company specializing in helping brands create immersive experiences, announces their plans to release Intraverse PRO. This addition to the TerraZero portfolio sets the stage for unparalleled omni-channel connectivity, solidifying the company's commitment to delivering cutting-edge solutions for modern businesses, now with a significant focus on artists, creators and SMBs with Intraverse PRO.



"We are thrilled to usher in a new era of immersive virtual experiences with Intraverse PRO," said Dan Reitzik, CEO of TerraZero. "This platform is not just about creating spaces but also about connecting with audiences on an entirely new level. It's about transforming virtual realms into hubs of creativity, e-commerce, and community, with no barrier to entry. Businesses, artists and the like need a way for their customers to simply tap a post on their phone, and jump right into new and exciting experiences."

VIDEO LINK: https://youtu.be/lpCcuPyOIzE

Caption: Video Render of an Intraverse PRO environment.

The new subscription-based platform is set to redefine how businesses, creators, artists, and individuals interact and engage within immersive 3D environments, similar to subscription-based website-building platforms. With an intuitive plug-and-play design, users will have access to a dynamic dashboard that enables the effortless upload of photos, documents, videos, and other media.

Furthermore, users can personalize their virtual spaces with room colors and decor or by implementing their own brand elements and guidelines. This ensures that every virtual space is a true reflection of the user's unique vision. Emulating trusted payment platforms such as ShopPay and ApplePay, Intraverse PRO will incorporate e-commerce functionalities by facilitating payments through reliable payment gateways. This empowers users to transform their virtual spaces into dynamic marketplaces, unlocking the full spectrum of e-commerce potential.

The platform also allows virtual environments to be experienced across both mobile and desktop devices. With the ability to extend invitations through social media, any user can effortlessly invite followers and friends to participate, regardless of the device they choose.

VIDEO LINK: https://youtu.be/Zf4HPb4QF7M

Caption: Video Render of an Intraverse PRO environment.

Intraverse PRO emerges as a testament to TerraZero's dedication to pushing the boundaries of SaaS technology. With a robust feature set and advanced capabilities, this revolutionary platform establishes a seamless link across the entire omni-channel landscape. Through bridging gaps and connecting touchpoints, Intraverse PRO empowers businesses to create a consistent and engaging experience for their customers, regardless of the channel they choose.

TerraZero is slated to launch Intraverse PRO in January 2024.

On behalf of the Board

Mark Binns

CEO

ir@biggdigitalassets.com

About BIGG Digital Assets Inc.

BIGG Digital Assets Inc. (BIGG) believes the future of crypto is a safe, compliant, and regulated environment. BIGG invests in products and companies to support this vision. BIGG has three portfolio companies: Netcoins (netcoins.com), Blockchain Intelligence Group (blockchaingroup.io), and TerraZero (terrazero.com).

Blockchain Intelligence Group builds technology to power compliance and intelligence for the crypto future. Banks and crypto companies depend on our technology to monitor risk from crypto transactions. Investigators and law enforcement quickly identify and track illicit activity. Blockchain Intelligence Group is trusted globally by banks, crypto companies, law enforcement, fintechs, regtechs and governments.

Netcoins offers safe and secure crypto trading in Canada and the USA, with a mission to make cryptocurrency easily accessible to the mass consumer and investor with a focus on compliance and safety. Netcoins has a robust product offering with Crypto Trading (US and CA), Netcoins Pay (CA) and Netcoins Staking (CA). Netcoins utilizes BitRank Verified software at the heart of its platform and facilitates crypto trading via its cutting-edge Mobile and Web applications. For more information please visit our website www.netcoins.com .

TerraZero Technologies Inc. is a vertically integrated Metaverse development group and leading Web3 technology company specializing in helping brands create immersive experiences. TerraZero's Metaverse-agnostic vision is to develop and implement products and services with scalable commercial applications to flourish engagement across gamified experiences where enterprise-level businesses, metaverse platforms, and Web3 creators can seamlessly bridge and actionably grow their virtual world and the physical world endeavors together as one. TerraZero owns digital real estate for brands to establish presence in existing virtual worlds and can also offer brands their own private worlds to provide offices and services to those interested in the metaverse. Furthermore, TerraZero acquires, designs, builds, and operates virtual assets and solutions to monetize the metaverse ecosystem. TerraZero's businesses are segmented into five (5) divisions which include: (1) immersive experience creation in existing or private virtual worlds; (2) advertising; (3) data analytics; (4) events and marketing; and (5) infrastructure. TerraZero aims to support the community, foster innovation, and drive adoption. For more information, please visit https://terrazero.com/ or contact hello@terrazero.com .

For more information and to register for BIGG's mailing list, please visit our website at https://www.biggdigitalassets.com . Or visit SEDAR at www.sedar.com .

Forward-Looking Statements:

Certain statements in this release are forward-looking statements, which include the completion of the search technology software and other matters. Forward-looking statements consist of statements that are not purely historical, including any statements regarding beliefs, plans, expectations or intentions regarding the future. Such information can generally be identified by the use of forwarding-looking wording such as "may", "expect", "estimate", "anticipate", "intend", "believe" and "continue" or the negative thereof or similar variations. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements, as there can be no assurance that the plans, intentions or expectations upon which they are based will occur. By their nature, forward-looking statements involve numerous assumptions, known and unknown risks and uncertainties, both general and specific that contribute to the possibility that the predictions, estimates, forecasts, projections and other forward-looking statements will not occur. These assumptions, risks and uncertainties include, among other things, the state of the economy in general and capital markets in particular, and other factors, many of which are beyond the control of BIGG. Forward-looking statements contained in this press release are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement. Undue reliance should not be placed on the forward-looking information because BIGG can give no assurance that they will prove to be correct. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from BIGG's expectations include consumer sentiment towards BIGG's products and Blockchain technology generally, technology failures, competition, and failure of counterparties to perform their contractual obligations.

The forward-looking statements contained in this press release are made as of the date of this press release. Except as required by law, BIGG disclaims any intention and assumes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. Additionally, BIGG undertakes no obligation to comment on the expectations of or statements made by, third parties in respect of the matters discussed above.

The CSE does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of the content of this Press Release.
TOKYO (dpa-AFX) - Japanese automobile major Toyota Motor Corp said on Tuesday that its operations have been suspended at some domestic plants from the first shift of August 29 as well as at 28 lines in all 14 plants from the evening shift of the same day. As per the company, the malfunction of the system was not caused by a cyberattack and it will continue to search for the cause. Toyota expects to resume production at 25 lines in 12 domestic plants, with the exception of the Toyota Motor Kyushu Miyata Plant and the Daihatsu Kyoto Plant. 'The resumption of the system from the first shift tomorrow will be a temporary measure, with operations expected to resume in all plants from the second shift onwards,' the company said in a statement. In pre-market activity, shares of Toyota are trading at $166.09 down 0.69% on the New York Stock Exchange Copyright(c) 2023 RTTNews.com. All Rights Reserved Copyright RTT News/dpa-AFX

Werbehinweise: Die Billigung des Basisprospekts durch die BaFin ist nicht als ihre Befurwortung der angebotenen Wertpapiere zu verstehen. Wir empfehlen Interessenten und potenziellen Anlegern den Basisprospekt und die Endgultigen Bedingungen zu lesen, bevor sie eine Anlageentscheidung treffen, um sich moglichst umfassend zu informieren, insbesondere uber die potenziellen Risiken und Chancen des Wertpapiers. Sie sind im Begriff, ein Produkt zu erwerben, das nicht einfach ist und schwer zu verstehen sein kann.
VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / August 29, 2023 / Regulus Resources Inc. ("Regulus" or the "Company", (TSX-V:REG)(OTCQX:RGLSF) is pleased to provide an update on its exploration activities and ongoing community initiatives at the AntaKori copper-gold project in Cajamarca, Peru. With a substantial resource already defined, the Company is reviewing various pathways to unlock value at the AntaKori deposit. Management currently believes the best pathway forward is to integrate the AntaKori deposit with the neighbouring Tantahuatay Mine and sulphide project. As the Company actively pursues these opportunities, work continues on several fronts to set the stage for development of the project in the most efficient and profitable manner for the benefit of all stakeholders.

Exploration and Development Activities

The collaborative program with Nuton LLC, a Rio Tinto venture ("Nuton"), to evaluate primary copper sulphide and sulfosalt leaching is progressing well. The NutonTM technologies have the potential to process arsenic-bearing copper sulphides and sulfosalts with less impact on the environment and water resources than traditional concentrator processing (see news release dated December 22, 2022). The Company, working in collaboration with Nuton, has identified that the best pathway to provide near-term samples for Phase 2 column test work is to utilize the existing core the Company has stored in its warehouse. This means the Company can deliver samples to Nuton in the near-term instead of waiting for drilling to be completed. The Company plans to ship core samples to Nuton in Q3-2023 with complete Phase 2 column test results expected in approximately one year. This will result in significant cost savings for the Company as it means there is no requirement in the near-term to complete new drill holes specifically for metallurgical testing.

The Company has been working with the nearby community of Tingo over recent months to gain social license to begin exploration activities on the claims where Regulus can earn up to a 60% interest from Gold Fields Ltd. (the "GF Claims") (see news release dated February 16, 2021). As a result of dialogue with the community, the Company has gained access to the GF Claims, certain 100% owned Regulus claims, and claims owned by the Regulus/Buenaventura joint venture where Regulus has a 70% interest (see Figure 1) to complete geological mapping, geochemical sampling, and a ground magnetics geophysical survey (See Figure 2). A total of 190 surface geochemical samples have been collected and sent to the laboratory for full geochemical analysis. The ground magnetics geophysical survey has been completed and negotiations are underway to extend the area of surface access agreements to allow for the completion of an IP/Resistivity survey. This area is located immediately to the east of the Tantahuatay Mine and has several historical, small-scale underground and open-pit operations that mined high-grade copper-gold mineralization between the 1940s and 1970s. Limited exploration has been completed in this region since that time due to restricted access. The Company views investment in this area as strategic for several reasons: (1) it begins the investment requirements towards earning an interest in the GF Claims, (2) it strengthens the Company's relationship with the community of Tingo and (3) the area is prospective from an exploration perspective, given the historical mining activity. The Company anticipates this first stage of exploration activities in this area will define future drill targets, although more surface work may be required. The permitting process has been initiated to allow for drilling as warranted by Q2-2024.

Additionally, the Company has been actively completing a geological mapping and surface geochemical sampling program on its northern claims (see Figure 1), where 155 samples have been collected and sent to the laboratory for full geochemical analysis. This program was initiated to better understand the potential to extend mineralization to the north of the main AntaKori resource and the recently completed drilling. This program was completed on the GF Claims, 100% owned Regulus claims and claims owned by the Regulus/Buenaventura joint venture where Regulus has a 70% interest.

The Company is also evaluating opportunities to develop an exploration decline into the main AntaKori resource. The purpose of this decline would be to assist with potential future bulk sampling for metallurgical test work, as well as easier and more affordable access for future definition drilling of the existing AntaKori resource.

Community Initiatives

Regulus has accelerated its long-term involvement in the local community and environmental projects that benefit all stakeholders in the areas surrounding the AntaKori project, as the Company continues to advance and de-risk the project for future development. These programs, which will provide significant opportunities for the people of Cajamarca, include:

The installation and technical support of satellite internet antennas, which provide fast and reliable internet access to children and teachers at various educational facilities in areas of Chugur and Hualgayoc that previously lacked connectivity;

Initiatives to stimulate agricultural production with landowners in the vicinity of the AntaKori project, including livestock projects, guinea pig breeding, and the optimization of milk production, all with the aim of generating sustainable economic opportunities for the local population. The improvement and conservation of forage and vaccination campaigns in the dairy cattle-raising district of Chugur have been particularly successful - a project that will benefit over 500 families from the 14 villages in the sphere of influence of the AntaKori project, by increasing pasture production by more than 30%, which has downstream benefits of improving the quantity and quality of dairy products made in the region, and

The construction and inauguration of a town square in El Chencho, financed by Regulus in a joint venture with the NGO Prodia.

John Black, Chief Executive Officer of Regulus, commented as follows: "One of the pillars of our strategy is to ensure we maintain strong relations with local communities and maintain social license. We have been working with local communities to develop sustainable economic opportunities, not only that provide benefits today, but that can be maintained and potentially grow in the future. Our team has been very busy on the ground completing several exploration programs to help better understand the regional potential outside of the existing AntaKori resource. In particular, the work completed in the Tingo area is exciting because it could be a prospective area that has not had exploration work completed on it in nearly 50 years due to restricted access. The fact that we can work on this ground today is a testament to the work our social teams have been executing. As well, we're working with Nuton to collect and ship samples for the second phase of test work utilizing their sulphide leaching technology. With the availability of existing core to produce materials, there isn't a need to commence a drill program right now. This provides us time to develop new regional targets from the ongoing exploration programs and complete the evaluation of an exploration decline before we spend resources on additional drilling."

Qualified Person

The scientific and technical data contained in this news release pertaining to the AntaKori project has been reviewed and approved by Dr. Kevin B. Heather, Chief Geological Officer, FAusIMM, who serves as the qualified person (QP) under the definition of National Instrument 43-101.

ON BEHALF OF THE REGULUS BOARD

(signed) "John Black"

John Black

CEO and Director

Tel: +1 (604) 685-6800

Email: info@regulusresources.com

For further information, please contact:

Regulus Resources Inc.

Ben Cherrington

Tel: +1 347 394 2728

Email: ben.cherrington@regulusresources.com

About Regulus Resources Inc. and the AntaKori Project

Regulus is an international mineral exploration company run by an experienced technical and management team. The principal project held by Regulus is the AntaKori copper-gold-silver project in northern Peru. The AntaKori project currently hosts a resource with indicated mineral resources of 250 million tonnes with a grade of 0.48 % Cu, 0.29 g/t Au and 7.5 g/t Ag and inferred mineral resources of 267 million tonnes with a grade of 0.41 % Cu, 0.26 g/t Au, and 7.8 g/t Ag (independent technical report prepared by AMEC Foster Wheeler (Peru) S.A., a Wood company, titled AntaKori Project, Cajamarca Province, Peru, NI 43-101 Technical Report, dated February 22, 2019 - see news release dated March 1, 2019). Mineralization remains open in most directions.

For further information on Regulus Resources Inc., please consult our website at www.regulusresources.com.

Forward Looking Information

Certain statements regarding Regulus, including management's assessment of future plans and operations, may constitute forward-looking statements under applicable securities laws and necessarily involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties, most of which are beyond Regulus' control. Often, but not always, forward-looking statements or information can be identified by the use of words such as "plans", "expects" or "does not expect", "is expected", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates" or "does not anticipate" or "believes" or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will" be taken, occur or be achieved.

Specifically, and without limitation, all statements included in this press release that address activities, events or developments that Regulus expects or anticipates will or may occur in the future, including the expected use of proceeds of the Private Placement, receipt of exchange approvals, the proposed exploration and development of the AntaKori project described herein, and management's assessment of future plans and operations and statements with respect to the completion of the anticipated exploration and development programs, may constitute forward-looking statements under applicable securities laws and necessarily involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties, most of which are beyond Regulus' control. These risks may cause actual financial and operating results, performance, levels of activity and achievements to differ materially from those expressed in, or implied by, such forward-looking statements. Although Regulus believes that the expectations represented in such forward-looking statements are reasonable, there can be no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. The forward-looking statements contained in this press release are made as of the date hereof and Aldebaran does not undertake any obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements or information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, unless so required by applicable securities law.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

SOURCE: Regulus Resources, Inc.

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/777834/Regulus-Provides-Update-on-Exploration-Activities-and-Community-Initiatives
Vancouver, British Columbia and Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - August 29, 2023) -Hypercharge Networks Corp. (NEO: HC) (OTCQB: HCNWF) (FSE: PB7) (the "Company" or "Hypercharge"), a leading, smart electric vehicle (EV) charging solutions provider, is pleased to announce it has been selected by Precise ParkLink to supply 12 Level 2 charging stations to Trillium Health Partners' Mississauga Hospital in Mississauga, ON, with installation due to be completed in 2023.

Managing over half a million stalls across Canada, Precise ParkLink is a vertically integrated, full-service parking and mobility solutions provider, supplying cutting-edge technology and management services to clients in the healthcare, municipal, commercial, institutional, and private sectors.

"We are excited to continue our partnership with Precise ParkLink by bringing EV charging to Mississauga Hospital, serving both hospital visitors and staff," said Chris Koch, Head of Growth & Partnerships at Hypercharge. "Together, we're ensuring that everyone at the hospital can focus on what matters most, with the confidence that their charging and parking needs are met."

"For nearly 20 years, Precise ParkLink has been a proud partner for Trillium Healthcare, providing patient- and staff-focused parking solutions across all three of their hospital campuses. We are excited to be expanding this partnership alongside Hypercharge, bringing 12 Level 2 charging stations to the Mississauga campus," said Luigi Lato, Chief Operating Officer at Precise ParkLink.

-##-

About Hypercharge

Hypercharge Networks Corp. (NEO: HC) (OTCQB: HCNWF) (FSE: PB7) is a leading provider of smart electric vehicle (EV) charging solutions that offers turnkey technology to multi-unit residential and commercial buildings, fleet operations, and other rapidly growing sectors. Driven by its mission to accelerate EV adoption and enable the shift towards a carbon neutral economy, Hypercharge is committed to providing seamless, simple charging solutions by offering industry-leading equipment and a robust network of public and private charging stations. Learn more: https://hypercharge.com/.

On behalf of the company,



Hypercharge Networks Corp.

David Bibby, President & CEO

Investor Relations:

Kelsey Letham | Head of Investor Relations

invest@hypercharge.com

604-881-1730

Media Contact:

Kyle Green | Senior Marketing Manager

kyle.green@hypercharge.com

Forward-Looking Statements

This news release contains forward-looking statements and forward-looking information (collectively, "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Any statements that are contained in this news release that are not statements of historical fact may be deemed to be forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are often identified by terms such as "may", "should", "anticipate", "will", "estimates", "believes", "intends", "expects" and similar expressions which are intended to identify forward-looking statements. More particularly and without limitation, this news release contains forward-looking statements regarding the expected installation of charging stations by the Company. Forward-looking statements are inherently uncertain, and the actual performance may be affected by a number of material factors, assumptions and expectations, many of which are beyond the control of the Company. Readers are cautioned that assumptions used in the preparation of any forward-looking statements may prove to be incorrect. Events or circumstances may cause actual results to differ materially from those predicted as a result of numerous known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, many of which are beyond the control of the Company. Readers are further cautioned not to place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements, as such information, although considered reasonable by management of the Company at the time of preparation, may prove to be incorrect and actual results may differ materially from those anticipated.

The forward-looking statements contained in this news release are made as of the date of this news release, and are expressly qualified by the foregoing cautionary statement. Except as expressly required by securities law, the Company undertakes no obligation to update publicly or to revise any of the included forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

Neither NEO Exchange Inc. nor its Market Regulator (as that term is defined in policies of NEO Exchange Inc.) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/178733
Geochemical Assay Results Confirm Uranium Enrichment Present in Faults

Geikie Uranium Project Advancing to Stage 3 of Earn-In Agreement

Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - August 29, 2023) - CanAlaska Uranium Ltd. (TSXV: CVV) (OTCQX: CVVUF) (FSE: DH7N) ("CanAlaska or the "Company") is pleased to announce it has met the terms of the Property Option Agreement ("POA") with Durama Enterprises Limited ("Durama"), and has obtained 100% ownership of the Key Extension project (the "Project"). The project, consisting of 13,707 hectares, is located in the Southeastern Athabasca Basin, approximately 10 kilometres southwest of the Key Lake uranium mine and mill near Highway 914 (Figure 1). The Company is also pleased to announce that it has received assay results from the 2023 winter exploration program, which confirm uranium enrichment associated with hydrothermal alteration and structure.





Figure 1 - Enterprise Project Location



To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

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100% Ownership of Key Extension Project

The Company earned 100% interest in the Project by undertaking work and payments in a single stage. The Company made total cash payments of $50,000, issued 300,000 common shares in the Company with the approval of the TSX Venture Exchange, and completed work totalling a minimum of $850,000. As part of the transaction, the Company granted a 1.5% Net Smelter Return (NSR) royalty to Durama. Two adjacent pre-existing CanAlaska mineral claims have been added to the Key Extension project to create a contiguous 13,707-hectare block only 10 kilometres southwest of the Key Lake uranium mine and mill.

The Company completed a ground-based geophysical survey in the winter of 2022 that identified multiple large gravity low features associated with interpreted structural corridors. A property-wide high-resolution airborne radiometric and magnetic survey identified magnetic lineaments associated with the gravity anomalies. Seven drillholes totalling 2,239 metres were completed during the winter of 2023. Significant outcomes from the drilling program included: identification of multiple graphitic rock units with large reactivated and brecciated fault zones; associated hydrothermal alteration, and; elevated radioactivity (see Press Release dated April 4th, 2023: CanAlaska Drills Elevated Radioactivity at Key Extension Project - CanAlaska Uranium Ltd.).

Winter 2023 Drill Program Geochemical Assay Results

Assay results from the winter 2023 drill program on the Key Extension project have been received confirming uranium enrichment in drillholes KEY007 and KEY010 (Table 1). Both holes were completed in Target Area 1, where 20 - 40 metre wide stacked graphitic rock units containing multiple metre to sub-metre scale semi-brittle fault zones were intersected in association with hydrothermal chlorite, clay, silicification, and secondary hematite alteration. KEY010 intersected 0.05% U3O8 from 243 - 243.3 metres, associated with a sheared limonite, chlorite, and clay altered granite immediately below the faulted and altered graphitic package (Figure 2). KEY007, completed 500 metres southeast of KEY010, intersected two zones of uranium enrichment. The upper zone in KEY007, from 337.8 to 340.8 metres, averaged 0.013% U3O8. The lower zone in KEY007, from 353.6 to 359.6 metres, averaged 0.013% U3O8. Both intervals of uranium enrichment in KEY007 are contained within sheared and chlorite altered granite immediately below a faulted graphitic pelite package.

The 2023 drilling program successfully intersected graphitic host rocks showing evidence of multiple post-Athabasca structural reactivation events, hydrothermal alteration, and associated uranium enrichment. These features are commonly associated with basement-hosted uranium deposits elsewhere in the Athabasca Basin. Results of this inaugural drill program indicate evidence for likely uranium-bearing hydrothermal fluids moving through the basement rocks on the Key Extension project. Beyond follow-up drilling of the significant results from Target Area 1, the Company believes more than 16 kilometres of untested target corridor have now been identified as high priority for future drill testing.





Figure 2 - Key Extension Winter Target Corridor Locations



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Table 1 - 2023 Key Extension Winter Exploration Drilling Results

DDH From (m) To

(m) Length (m)2 Average Grade

(% U3O8) Maximum Grade

(% U3O8) KEY0071,3 337.8 340.8 3.0 0.013 0.02 KEY0071,3 353.6 359.6 6.0 0.013 0.03











KEY0101,4 243 243.3 0.3 0.05 0.05 Intersection interval is composited above a cut-off grade of 0.01% U3O8 with a maximum of 1.0 m of internal dilution. All reported depths and intervals are drill hole depths and intervals, unless otherwise noted, and do not represent true thicknesses, which have yet to be determined. KEY007 was drilled at an azimuth of 290 with an inclination of -60, collared at 441,526 mE / 6,331,311 mN, 525 m A.S.L. (UTM NAD83 Z13N). KEY010 was drilled at an azimuth of 310 with an inclination of -65, collared at 441,365 mE / 6,331,764 mN, 530 m A.S.L. (UTM NAD83 Z13N).

CanAlaska CEO, Cory Belyk, comments: "Assay confirmation of uranium enrichment within and near zones of significant faulting is an exciting outcome from this first drill program at Key Extension. It confirms CanAlaska's belief that Key Extension is one of the best brownfield exploration plays located on one of the most prolific uranium ore-deposit-hosting fault systems in the Athabasca Basin. The nearby Key Lake uranium deposits were worldclass and this region is remarkably underexplored. This infrastructure-rich area is the perfect location to make a new discovery in the backdrop of a uranium fuel market that needs it. We invite interested parties to discuss with CanAlaska how they can get involved in one of our numerous discovery opportunities."

Geochemical Sampling Procedures

All drill core samples from the 2023 winter program were shipped to the Saskatchewan Research Council Geoanalytical Laboratories (SRC) in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan in secure containment for preparation, processing, and multi-element analysis by ICP-MS and ICP-OES using total (HF:NHO3:HClO4) and partial digestion (HNO3:HCl), boron by fusion, and U3O8 wt% assay by ICP-OES using higher grade standards. Assay samples are chosen based on downhole probing radiometric equivalent uranium grades and scintillometer (SPP2 or CT007-M) peaks. Assay sample intervals comprise 0.3 - 0.7 metre continuous half-core split samples over the mineralized interval. One half of the split sample is retained and the other sent to the SRC for analysis. The SRC is an ISO/IEC 17025/2005 and Standards Council of Canada certified analytical laboratory. Blanks, standard reference materials, and repeats are inserted into the sample stream at regular intervals by CanAlaska and the SRC in accordance with CanAlaska's quality assurance/quality control (QA/QC) procedures. For results from the Key Extension project, a qualified person employed by CanAlaska has performed detailed QAQC and data verification, were possible, of all datasets prior to disclosure.

All reported depths and intervals are drill hole depths and intervals, unless otherwise noted, and do not represent true thicknesses, which have yet to be determined.

Other News

The Company is drilling at its West McArthur uranium project in the Eastern Athabasca Basin. The primary objective of the drill program is advancing the Pike Zone discovery, including continued focus on expansion of basement-hosted high-grade uranium mineralization as well as continued unconformity target testing. In addition, the Company has identified a series of high-priority resistivity drill targets along the C10S mineralized corridor, the most compelling located approximately 1.8 kilometres northeast of the high-grade Pike Zone uranium discovery.

The Company is pleased to announce that Basin Energy has satisfied the conditions to achieve 60% ownership in the Geikie uranium project. In addition, Basin Energy has elected to proceed to Stage 3 with the potential to earn up to 80% interest in the Geikie project. The Company is currently completing a detailed fixed-wing Falcon Airborne Gravity Gradiometer (AGG) survey on the Geikie project to identify potential target areas of enhanced basement alteration associated with previously interpreted and drill defined structural corridors.

About CanAlaska Uranium

CanAlaska Uranium Ltd. (TSXV: CVV) (OTCQX: CVVUF) (FSE: DH7N) holds interests in approximately 350,000 hectares (865,000 acres), in Canada's Athabasca Basin - the "Saudi Arabia of Uranium." CanAlaska's strategic holdings have attracted major international mining companies. CanAlaska is currently working with Cameco and Denison at two of the Company's properties in the Eastern Athabasca Basin. CanAlaska is a project generator positioned for discovery success in the world's richest uranium district. The Company also holds properties prospective for nickel, copper, gold and diamonds. For further information visit www.canalaska.com.

The qualified technical person for this news release is Nathan Bridge, MSc., P.Geo., CanAlaska's Vice President, Exploration.

On behalf of the Board of Directors

"Cory Belyk"

Cory Belyk, P.Geo., FGC

CEO, President and Director

CanAlaska Uranium Ltd.

Contacts:

Cory Belyk, CEO and President

Tel: +1.604.688.3211 x 138

Email: cbelyk@canalaska.com

General Enquiry

Tel: +1.604.688.3211

Email: info@canalaska.com

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Forward-looking information

All statements included in this press release that address activities, events or developments that the Company expects, believes or anticipates will or may occur in the future are forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements involve numerous assumptions made by the Company based on its experience, perception of historical trends, current conditions, expected future developments and other factors it believes are appropriate in the circumstances. In addition, these statements involve substantial known and unknown risks and uncertainties that contribute to the possibility that the predictions, forecasts, projections and other forward-looking statements will prove inaccurate, certain of which are beyond the Company's control. Readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Except as required by law, the Company does not intend to revise or update these forward-looking statements after the date hereof or revise them to reflect the occurrence of future unanticipated events.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/178772
Police arrest 18 drug smugglers in Afghan

Kabul, Aug 29 (UNI) Afghan police have arrested 18 persons on the charge of involvement in drug smuggling and seized a huge quantity of illicit drugs in latest operations in capital Kabul and seven provinces, a statement of the Ministry of Interior Affairs said Tuesday.

In the operations on Monday, the police seized 81 kg crystal, 1,190 kg yame (a plant grown in Afghanistan's mountainous areas that can be made into drugs), and materials and objects used in manufacturing heroin, in Kabul and the provinces of Kandahar, Nimroz, Laghman, Ghor, Nangarhar, Sari Pul and Herat.

In addition, Afghan security forces on Monday destroyed a drug lab in the central province of Uruzgan and detained a person, the provincial information and culture department said in a statement, adding that the police also discovered a large amount of materials used in manufacturing heroin from the site raided.
Ottawa, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - August 29, 2023) - Northern Graphite Corporation (TSXV: NGC) (OTCQB: NGPHF) (FSE: 0NG) (XSTU: 0NG) (the "Company" or "Northern) is pleased to announce that it has entered into an agreement with Edgewater Capital Partners ("Edgewater") to extend the Company's option to acquire a stake in NeoGraf Solutions, LLC ("NeoGraf").

With this six-month extension, Northern has the option to acquire an effective 50.1% voting interest and a 33.3% equity interest in NeoGraf. Northern also has an option to increase its interest up to 100%, at a later date, subject to the terms and conditions of the agreement. Northern has engaged Sprott Capital Partners LP to act as its financial advisor with respect to financing the investment.

NeoGraf is one of Northern's largest customers and, including its time as a part of Union Carbide, has a history of over 100 years serving clients in North America and abroad. It is a leading provider of specialty, value-added products manufactured from natural graphite and has a strong intellectual property portfolio and a blue-chip customer base.

"Due to the potential of the proposed partnership between Northern and Edgewater to contribute to NeoGraf's future success, Edgewater has agreed to extend the term of the option from six- to 12 months, in order to give us more time to effectively close the deal in a challenging market environment," said Northern Chief Executive Officer Hugues Jacquemin. "The acquisition of this stake in NeoGraf will be a critical driver of our downstream strategy to be an integrated and sustainable mine-to-market company."

"We are very pleased at the prospect of partnering with Hugues and the Northern team to accelerate NeoGraf's growth and in support of Northern's 'mine-to-market' strategy. This partnership provides NeoGraf an additional 'tool' in enabling our customers' success and enhances our ability to address supply needs in this quickly growing marketspace," said Edgewater Capital Partner and current Chairman of the Board, Robert Girton.

"Together, NeoGraf and Northern promise a powerful combination in the development of high-performance technical solutions that address our customers' specific needs," Natesh Krishnan, CEO of NeoGraf, commented. "Northern provides NeoGraf with greater security of supply and expands the geographic regions from which we source our graphite."

Closing of Northern's investment is subject to the execution of definitive agreements, the receipt of all required third party and regulatory approvals including, if applicable, approval of the TSX Venture Exchange and to Northern completing satisfactory financing arrangements.

About Northern Graphite

Northern is a Canadian, TSX Venture Exchange listed company that is focused on becoming a world leader in producing natural graphite and upgrading it into high value products critical to the green economy including anode material for lithium-ion batteries/EVs, fuel cells and graphene, as well as advanced industrial technologies.

Northern is the only significant graphite producing company in North America and will become the third largest producer outside of China when its Namibian operations come back online. The Company also has two large scale development projects, Bissett Creek in Ontario and Okanjande in Namibia, that will be a source of continued production growth in the future. All projects have "battery quality" graphite and are located close to infrastructure in politically stable jurisdictions.

About NeoGraf

NeoGraf Solutions LLC is based in Lakewood, Ohio where it operates a 395,000 s/f manufacturing facility on a 22 acre, company owned site. It has just over 100 employees and a strong R&D, materials science and application development capability with 10 R&D scientists and over 150 patents. NeoGraf is a global technology leader in the sale of highly-engineered specialty products, materials and additives which are largely based on natural graphite and proprietary technologies. It has a 100+ year history and a strong brand name with over 250 customers in 22 countries.

Edgewater Capital Partners

Edgewater Capital Partners is a Cleveland based, sector-focused private equity firm that invests in lower middle-market performance materials and service businesses. The firm has extensive experience and expertise investing in the people, technology, and facilities to accelerate the growth trajectory of niche manufacturers of specialty chemicals, life sciences, advanced materials, and engineered components. Over twenty years of industry specific investing has allowed the firm to develop a deep understanding of the complexities and nuances common to these businesses.

For media inquiries contact

Pav Jordan, VP of Communications

Email: pjordan@northerngraphite.com

For further information contact

Guillaume Jacq, CFO

Telephone: (613) 271-2124

Email: info@northerngraphite.com

For additional information

Please visit the Company's website at http://www.northerngraphite.com/investors/presentation/, the Company's profile on www.sedar.com, our Social Channels listed below or contact the Company at (613) 271-2124.

LinkedIn



YouTube



Twitter



Facebook

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This news release contains certain "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws. Forward- looking statements and information are frequently characterized by words such as "plan", "expect", "project", "intend", "believe", "anticipate", "estimate", "potential", "possible" and other similar words, or statements that certain events or conditions "may", "will", "could", or "should" occur. Forward-looking statements in this release include statements regarding, among others, the Company's intentions with respect to completing the investment in NeoGraf, completing the financing arrangements relating thereto, advancing its developments projects to production and developing the capacity to manufacture value-added products. All such forward-looking statements are based on assumptions and analyses made by management based on their experience and perception of historical trends, current conditions and expected future developments, as well as other factors they believe are appropriate in the circumstances. However, these statements are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those projected including, but not limited to unexpected changes in laws, rules or regulations, or their enforcement by applicable authorities; the failure of other parties to perform as agreed; social or labour unrest; changes in commodity prices; unexpected failure or inadequacy of infrastructure and the failure of ongoing and contemplated studies to deliver anticipated results or results that would justify and support continued studies, development or operations. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking information or statements.

Although the forward-looking statements contained in this news release are based on what management believes are reasonable assumptions, the Company cannot assure investors that actual results will be consistent with them. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date of this news release and are expressly qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement. Subject to applicable securities laws, the Company does not assume any obligation to update or revise the forward-looking statements contained herein to reflect events or circumstances occurring after the date of this news release.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/178836
Montreal, Quebec--(Newsfile Corp. - August 29, 2023) - QcX Gold Corp. (TSXV: QCX) (OTCQB: QCXGF) (FSE: 21MA) ("QcX" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that, further to its press release of August 8, 2023, it has closed a non-brokered private placement through the issuance of 3,600,000 units (each, a "Unit") in the capital of the Company at a price of $0.05 per Unit and 6,200,000 flow-through units (each, a "FT Unit") at a price of $0.05 per FT Unit, for aggregate gross proceeds of $490,000 (the "Offering").

Each Unit is comprised of one common share (each, a "Common Share") in the capital of the Company and one Common Share purchase warrant (each, a "Warrant"). Each Warrant entitles the holder thereof to purchase one Common Share at a price of $0.10 for a period of twenty-four (24) months from the date of issuance. Each FT Unit is comprised of one common share in the capital of the Company, issued on a "flow-through" basis (each, a "FT Share") and one-half of one whole Warrant. The FT Shares will qualify as "flow-through shares" within the meaning of subsection 66(15) of the Income Tax Act (Canada).

All securities issued pursuant to the Offering will be subject to a hold period of four months plus a day from the date of issuance and the resale rules of applicable securities legislation. The gross proceeds from the sale of the FT Units will be used by the Company to incur eligible "Canadian exploration expenses" that will qualify as "flow-through expenditures" as such terms are defined in the Income Tax Act (Canada). The gross proceeds from the Units will be used for general working capital purposes.

In connection with the closing of the Offering, the Company paid certain eligible finders (each, a "Finder") cash commissions in the aggregate of $33,600, of which $26,600 was paid through the issuance of 532,000 Units and issued the Finders an aggregate of 532,000 non-transferrable broker warrants (each, a "Broker Warrant"). Each Broker Warrant entitles the holder thereof to purchase one Unit at a price of $0.05 at any time for a term of two (2) years following the date of issuance.

Pursuant to the Offering, Generic Capital Corporation ("Generic") received 2,600,000 Units. Prior to the completion of the Offering, Generic held 10,427,500 Common Shares, representing approximately 15.89% of the issued and outstanding Common Shares on a non-diluted and partially diluted basis. Upon completion of the Offering, Generic holds 13,027,500 Common Shares and 2,600,000 Warrants, representing approximately 17.15% of the Company's issued and outstanding Common Shares on a non-diluted and approximately 19.90% on a partially diluted basis. Depending on market and other conditions, or as future circumstances may dictate, Generic may from time to time increase or decrease its holdings of Common Shares or other securities of the Company. A copy of the early warning report will be available on the Company's issuer profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca.

The Offering constituted a related party transaction within the meaning of TSX Venture Exchange Policy 5.9 and Multilateral Instrument 61-101 - Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions ("MI 61-101") as an insider of the Company subscribed for 2,600,000 Units pursuant to the Offering. The Company is relying on the exemptions from the valuation and minority shareholder approval requirements of MI 61-101 contained in sections 5.5(b) and 5.7(1)(a) of MI 61-101, as the Company is not listed on a specified market and the fair market value of the participation in the Offering by the insider does not exceed 25% of the market capitalization of the Company in accordance with MI 61-101. The Company did not file a material change report in respect of the related party transaction at least 21 days before the closing of the of the Offering, which the Company deems reasonable in the circumstances in order to complete the Offering in an expeditious manner.

The closing of the Offering is subject to certain conditions including, but not limited to, the receipt of all necessary regulatory and other approvals, including the approval of the TSX Venture Exchange.

This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to sell any of the securities in the United States. The securities have not been and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "U.S. Securities Act") or any state securities laws and may not be offered or sold within the United States or to U.S. Persons unless registered under the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws or an exemption from such registration is available.

About QcX Gold

QcX Gold is exploring for gold and VMS style mineralization on its highly prospective and well-located properties in Quebec, Canada. The Golden Giant Project is located in the James Bay region, only 2.9 km from Azimut Exploration Inc.'s Patwon discovery on their Elmer gold project. The Fernet Project is located in the Abitibi Greenstone Belt and is contiguous with Wallbridge Mining Company Limited's Fenelon/Martiniere property. Both properties are in close proximity to major discoveries which bodes well for exploration.

On behalf of the Board of Directors:

Aaron Stone, P.Geo.

Vice President Exploration

aaron.stone@qcxgold.com

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Forward-looking statements:

This news release contains forward-looking statements. All statements, other than of historical facts, that address activities, events or developments that the Company believes, expects or anticipates will or may occur in the future including, without limitation, the planned exploration program, the expected positive exploration results, the timing of the exploration results, the ability of the Company to continue with the exploration program, the availability of the required funds to continue with the exploration and the potential mineralization or potential mineral resources are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are generally identifiable by use of the words "will", "should", "continue", "expect", "anticipate", "estimate", "believe", "intend", "to earn", "to have', "plan" or "project" or the negative of these words or other variations on these words or comparable terminology. Forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond the Company's ability to control or predict, that may cause the actual results of the Company to differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results or events to differ materially from current expectations include, among other things, failure to meet expected, estimated or planned exploration expenditures, failure to establish estimated mineral resources, the possibility that future exploration results will not be consistent with the Company's expectations, general business and economic conditions, changes in world gold markets, sufficient labour and equipment being available, changes in laws and permitting requirements, unanticipated weather changes, title disputes and claims, environmental risks as well as those risks identified in the Company's annual Management's Discussion and Analysis. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should assumptions underlying the forward-looking statements prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those described and accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Although the Company has attempted to identify important risks, uncertainties and factors which could cause actual results to differ materially, there may be others that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. The Company does not intend, and does not assume any obligation, to update these forward-looking statements except as otherwise required by applicable law.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/178846
MIAMI, FL / ACCESSWIRE / August 29, 2023 / Luminar Media Group, Inc. (OTC PINK:LRGR), The makers of Royale de Monte Carlo, "The World's Most Prestigious Vodka," proudly welcomes Juan M. Sese as their new Chief Operating Officer (COO). This strategic appointment underscores the company's dedication to innovation, growth, and unrivaled operations.

Mr. Sese's extensive experience encompasses strategic leadership, operational enhancements, and team collaboration. His impressive trajectory in driving business successes across varied sectors, combined with his deep insights into the spirits sphere, promises to position Royale de Monte Carlo vodka on an ascending trajectory.

Robert Rico, CEO of Luminar Media Group, Inc., commented, "Juan's exceptional talents and unwavering commitment to operational excellence align seamlessly with our ambitious vision. We anticipate his leadership to be pivotal in unlocking new avenues for Royale de Monte Carlo Vodka and bolstering our stature in the market."

Reflecting on his appointment, Mr. Sese said, "It's a privilege to join the esteemed Royale de Monte Carlo team. I am eager to consolidate our strengths and enhance the value we present to our global audience and stakeholders."

As COO, Juan Sese will oversee the company's daily operations, refine ongoing processes, and introduce innovative business strategies. Collaborating closely with Royale de Monte Carlo leadership he aims to ensure the brand's pioneering position in the industry.

About Juan M. Sese

Juan M. Sese kickstarted his distinguished 25-year journey at Morgan Stanley Smith Barney, managing assets for affluent clientele and major institutions across Latin America. He adeptly facilitated Latin American banks in leveraging American investment opportunities.

Transitioning to business strategy and Private Equity M&A, Mr. Sese excelled in acquisitions, process enhancements, and fruitful dispositions within the logistics and distribution domain. Moreover, his ventures span land acquisitions and developmental pursuits in South Florida.

With a MBA in Business and Finance from the University of Miami, Mr. Sese held prestigious financial licenses, including Series 3, 7, 24, 31, and 65. His business acumen granted him a coveted invitation to the lifetime membership of Beta Kappa Sigma.

About Royale de Monte Carlo/ Luminar Media Group, Inc.

Royale de Monte Carlo, headquartered in Miami, Florida, is an ultra-premium vodka renowned for its icy coolness and exquisitely smooth taste, offering euphoric pleasure to discerning palates. Crafted and produced by fifth-generation master distillers located in the heart of France's world-famous Cognac region, Royale de Monte Carlo has been honored as the "World's Most Prestigious Vodka".

For more information, please visit www.royaledemontecarlo.com

Cautionary Language Concerning Forward-Looking Statements:

This press release contains forward-looking statements regarding our business, financial condition, and prospects, based on our current assumptions and beliefs. However, the company cannot guarantee that the expectations expressed in these forward-looking statements will be realized. There may be unforeseen risks and circumstances that we are unable to predict. While words such as "believes," "expects," "intends," "plans," "anticipates," "estimates," and similar expressions are used to identify forward-looking statements, there may be forward-looking statements that are not accompanied by such expressions. Investors should exercise caution when relying on these forward-looking statements, as they speak only as of the date of this press release. The company's actual results may differ materially from the anticipated results expressed in these forward-looking statements due to various factors, including risks discussed in the company's periodic reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, available on its website (www.sec.gov). All forward-looking statements attributed to the company or individuals acting on its behalf are expressly qualified in their entirety by these factors, except as required under securities laws. The company assumes no obligation to update these forward-looking statements. Investors should refer to the risk factors disclosure outlined in our periodic reports filed from time-to-time with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Investor Relations Contact:

Robert Rico

305-283-9237

SOURCE: Luminar Media Group, Inc.

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/777807/Juan-M-Sese-Joins-Luminar-Media-Group-Inc-The-Makers-of-Royale-de-Monte-CarloTM-The-Worlds-Most-Prestigious-Vodka-as-Chief-Operating-Officer
New Platform Will Drive Earned Wage Access Awareness, Engagement to Over 40,000 ZayZoon Worksites in U.S.

PHOENIX, AZ / ACCESSWIRE / August 29, 2023 / ZayZoon, the Earned Wage Access (EWA) provider for small and mid-sized businesses, today announced Connect, a new offering that empowers employers to drive benefits awareness, engagement, and adoption in one centralized hub. The platform provides data-driven insights with the goal of enhancing employee experience, allowing managers and supervisors to better tune into their employee's financial health and needs. Connect is now available to over 40,000 ZayZoon worksite locations across the United States, with the highest adoption among businesses in QSR, hospitality, healthcare, and manufacturing.

ZayZoon's commitment to providing employers with financial wellness tools, resources, and education for their employees takes a leap forward with Connect. With this updated self-serve platform, an organization's ZayZoon administrator can have real-time insights into their workplace financial health, autonomously access materials like workplace posters, and one-click invite their entire workforce to efficiently promote benefits and maximize program participation. Benefit utilization rates are notoriously low and without proper implementation and communication from employers, benefits often go unused and unrecognized by employees.

"When you have a great culture, you don't have to invest as much in hiring because people know you have a great place to work," comments ZayZoon client and Neema Hospitality President Sandeep Thakar. "Offering benefits like ZayZoon can be the difference between hiring a talented employee or not. I would absolutely recommend ZayZoon to another business. From our perspective, it has been seamless."

The Connect platform is a powerful asset for managers and employers, offering features that cater to the unique needs of small and mid-sized businesses. Customer-driven updates to this official release include:

Data-Driven Decision Making: Gain insights into employee benefit engagement with intuitive data analytics, allowing managers to make informed decisions that align with employee needs.

Gain insights into employee benefit engagement with intuitive data analytics, allowing managers to make informed decisions that align with employee needs. Promote Program Awareness & Adoption: Easily access promotional materials and customizable communication templates to inform employees about their benefits and encourage participation.

Easily access promotional materials and customizable communication templates to inform employees about their benefits and encourage participation. People Success and Culture: Foundational elements such as easily managed employee communications and tools to accommodate workplace engagement beyond traditional Earned Wage Access and education.

"In the realm of financial wellness benefits, a disconnect and lack of communication often exist between employers and employee engagement," said Tate Hackert Co-Founder & President of ZayZoon. "This is why we are focusing on developing a new experience for managers and supervisors, providing greater flexibility to engage with their employees and gain insight into their financial needs."

Connect aligns directly with ZayZoon's overarching goal of supporting employee financial wellness. It helps drive positive financial outcomes for ZayZoon customers and, in turn, supports stronger employee retention and a happier and more productive workforce.

To learn more about ZayZoon's manager platform Connect and Earned Wage Access, please visit: www.zayzoon.com.

About ZayZoon:

ZayZoon is the financial empowerment platform for small and mid-sized businesses. With ZayZoon, payday finally comes with the push of a button. It's free for employers and takes only 30 minutes to implement. Employees can use ZayZoon to get paid whenever, however. The platform also offers educational resources and tools to help workers break the paycheck-to-paycheck cycle. And it works. 89% of employees who use ZayZoon report less financial stress, and employers who offer ZayZoon boast a 29% reduction in turnover. Visit ZayZoon at: https://www.zayzoon.com/

Contact Information

Rachel Goodwill

Walker Sands for ZayZoon

rachel.goodwill@walkersands.com

SOURCE: ZayZoon

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/777723/ZayZoon-Unveils-Connect-Manager-Platform-Designed-to-Drive-Workforce-Engagement-and-Financial-Empowerment
NEW CITY, NY / ACCESSWIRE / August 29, 2023 / Nueva Network, the fastest-growing independently 100% Minority-Owned Spanish Language Audio Network with offices in New York, Atlanta, Boston, DC, Los Angeles, and Mexico City, proudly announces the appointment of Benjamin Finley as its Director of Business Development and Maria Castillo as Audio Network & Digital Sales Planner, effective September 1. Both executives have a successful track record in sales and operations and diverse backgrounds in the audio and technology space, making Nueva Network's strategic move to continue on its path of accelerated growth in 2024 and beyond. Finley will be based in Dallas, TX, and Castillo will be based in New York.

Nueva Network

Finley's wealth of experience, encompassing brand-direct and agency relationships with decision-makers, uniquely positions him to elevate Nueva Network's business development. Castillo's knowledge of Spanish-language Network Radio will help Nueva drive marketing solutions and monetize multimedia advertising platforms that will play a key role in propelling the company's growth trajectory and goals.

Jose M. Villafane, CEO/CRO of Nueva Network, expressed his excitement for the additions to the team: "While the market is down and brands slowdown in spend, we continue to increase sales and our share of Network Radio Revenue. We have been bullish in our investment with programming, sales platforms and media executives and these have given us a tremendous growth and ROI in 2023. We are building a company with people-first in mind."

Nueva Network specializes in delivering innovative media and customized content solutions to agencies and brands navigating the ever-changing landscape. The company's comprehensive suite of services covers network radio, customized content production, local activations and cross-platform execution of owned and operated media and affiliates. Nueva Network is committed to achieving client goals and driving results through strategic approaches in the dynamic market.

For media inquiries or more information about Benjamin Finley's and Maria Castillo's appointment, please contact:

Jose M. Villafane, CEO/CRO Nueva Network: jose@nuevanetwork.com

About Nueva Network:

Nueva Network is an audio media company with digital extensions and offices in New York, Atlanta, Boston, DC, Los Angeles, and Mexico City. As a prominent player in the industry, Nueva Network specializes in producing exceptional audio content that resonates with diverse audiences, particularly the vibrant Latino community in the United States. Through its innovative digital sales platforms, including the newly launched NNPlus, Nueva Network connects agencies and brands with the vast potential of the Spanish-language audio landscape.

Website: www.nuevanetwork.com

Contact Information

Jose M. Villafane

CEO / CRO Nueva Network

jose@nuevanetwork.com

SOURCE: Nueva Network

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/777767/Nueva-Network-Doubles-Down-Expands-Team-With-Two-Key-Positions
DALLAS, TX / ACCESSWIRE / August 29, 2023 / Skylar DeRouen, a 20-year veteran of the United States Air Force, used his military experience to build a finance company, known as Voyatic, for travelers.









"When my supervisor was retiring, he confessed his financial struggles due to debts and a lack of 401K contributions. His words served as a wake-up call. I took his advice to heart, investing wisely for 20 years. Now, not only am I financially stable, but I'm also passionate about helping others. This led me to build a business centered around financial literacy," said DeRouen.

Initially, DeRouen was hosting speaking events for military members and their spouses. He taught on topics like budgeting tactics, how to get out of debt, and setting up investment accounts for children. He's since transitioned his company to teach everyone about better financial habits and freedom, specifically travelers.

"I'm a big traveler. I've traveled to over 30 countries. I know that travelers have questions on everything from budgeting to the hot spots to go to. Also, how to make income while traveling is another common question I get. I've been obsessed with financial services like Morningstar and learning how to grow my investments. My military career and degree in finance provided me with the necessary tools to build this platform with success," said DeRouen.

DeRouen has gained a large social media following. He currently has over 55,000 followers on YouTube who follow him for his travel advice and cinematography.

Get expert guidance for your financial and travel journey from Skylar DeRouen: https://voyatic.io/

Contact Information

Skylar DeRouen

Founder

skylar@voyatic.io

SOURCE: Voyatic

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/777823/Created-by-Air-Force-Combat-Veteran-Voyatic-Provides-More-Financial-Freedom-for-Travelers
GlyCat demonstrates industry-leading 78% gold recovery for heap leaching

Expected 70% reduction in reagent costs

Reduces operating risk through mitigation of local cyanide supply disruption

Draslovka a.s. ('Draslovka'), a leading specialty chemicals company, announces it has executed a user license with Bayan Airag Exploration LLC in Mongolia for the world's first application of its proprietary glycine gold leaching process, GlyCatTM ('GlyCat'), in a commercial heap leaching application. Application of the technology has commenced to extract gold from ores mined from its Golden Hills and Limestone Ridge pits.

The decision to fully implement the technology on its heap leach operations was made following site-based testing and culminating in a 1000-tonne trial heap leach. The collaboration involved staff from Draslovka's Perth-based mining innovation centre and Bayan Airag site-based staff. The recent heap leach trial demonstrated higher recoveries than conventional cyanidation, with 78% overall gold recovery. This was achieved with a 65% reduction in cyanide and high recyclability of the glycine. Overall, due to high cyanide unit costs, the total reagent costs are projected to be reduced by over 70%.

The Bayan Airag mines are located in Mongolia where temperatures are regularly sub-zero making the trial and forward commercial application of the technology of interest to other cold climate applications globally.

Ivor Bryan, Chief Technology Officer of Draslovka Mining Solutions, commented:

"Working with the Bayan Airag team has been a fantastic collaboration and is an exciting milestone for Draslovka. GlyCat's use in heap leaching applications demonstrates equivalent or better recoveries and step change reduction in operating costs. This provides opportunities for our clients to extend mine life and convert uneconomic ores and wastes into viable metal production opportunities. We look forward to expanding our strong relationship with Bayan Airag as it considers other projects in its area of operations and as a foundation for further applications in Mongolia."

Peter Thompson, Chief Executive Officer of Bayan Airag, added:

"At Bayan Airag where we often have challenges in cyanide supply and costs, we saw the GlyCat process as an opportunity to reduce our reliance on cyanide and to use a much more eco-friendly alternative that provides sustainability to our Mongolian business and improved outcomes to the community in which we work. It also gives us an advantage for when we encounter high levels of copper in our gold-silver ore. We are proud that the Bayan Airag mine is the first mine in Mongolia to use GlyCat and the first instance of commercial implementation of GlyCat in a heap leach anywhere in the world."

ENDS

About Draslovka

Draslovka Holdings a.s. (Draslovka) is a global leader in cyanide-based chemical specialties and agricultural chemicals including next-generation fumigants and biocides. Utilising the company's significant expertise, Draslovka develops and scales solutions which are vital for delivering sustainable growth at pace. A private holding company based in the Czech Republic, it is owned by four Czech families and has more than 100 years of experience in hydrogen cyanide (HCN) production and HCN chemistry. The company specializes in the production of fully synthetic and highly purified liquid HCN, which undergoes further processing for application in a variety of downstream products ranging from the mining through to agriculture sectors. Through its scalable chemistry-based solutions, Draslovka aims to unlock transformation and be the leading global player in the production of cyanides for use in synthesis, mining, and industrial and agricultural applications, with safety and environmental sustainability at the heart of all its operations.

About Bayan Airag

Bayan Airag Exploration is a Mongolian mining company, operating since 2014 at a rate of 1m tonnes of ore per year, and the first mining project operating in Zavkhan province. Bayan Airag Exploration is committed to delivering sustainable development to host communities through responsible mining, protection of the environment and an unwavering focus on safety. The company has implemented numerous projects to support and develop host communities, including infrastructure, development of small businesses, livestock and pasture land management, cultural heritage, education and community health.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230829435585/en/

Contacts:

FTI Consulting

Viktor Pomichal Ariadna D. Peretz

Tel: +44 (0) 7890 417764

Email: draslovka@fticonsulting.com

Bayan Airag

Peter Thompson, CEO

Email: pthompson@bayanairag.com
The nonprofit agriculture sustainability organization is currently piloting its international farmland management standard in Canada with Manulife Investment Management, Bonnefield Financial, Farm Credit Canada, and McCain Foods.

ARLINGTON, Va., Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Leading Harvest, an industry leader in agriculture sustainability, has announced it is piloting its innovative, third-party audited Farmland Management Standard in Canada, with plans to officially launch in the country by the end of the year. The pilot comes as the federal government works on its first sustainable agriculture strategy and just months after the launch of the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership between the federal, provincial, and territorial governments to strengthen the agriculture, agri-food, and agri-based products sector.

"Leading Harvest is a game-changer. The organization has demonstrated certification can be applied across all crop types, geographies, and management systems to provide assurance that operations are well rooted in best practices, while ensuring a commitment to robust management and continuous improvement," said Oliver Williams, Global Head of Agricultural Investments at Manulife Investment Management and member of the Leading Harvest Board of Directors. "As we look forward to the launch of the Canadian program, we become one step closer to a single, comprehensive sustainability standard across the globe."

The Leading Harvest Farmland Management Standard was the first universal, outcomes-based sustainability standard to focus on continuous improvement in agriculture. Just three years after its launch in the United States, nearly 3 million acres representing more than 100 crop types globally have enrolled. Earlier this year, Leading Harvest successfully launched in Australia with enrollment across all six states.

Leading Harvest looked to Canada to continue its expansion due to the growing demand for sustainability assurance across the Canadian food and agriculture sectors.

"There is an increasingly urgent demand for verification of sustainable practices from farmers, consumers, and investors alike. Farmers, agribusiness operators, and others across the food and agriculture sectors must now deliver on ambitious commitments, and on short timelines. The rapid expansion of Leading Harvest's Farmland Management Standard across continents and hemispheres is a testament to the need for a sector-wide, universally applicable framework for continuously improving agricultural sustainability," says Kenny Fahey, President and CEO of Leading Harvest. "With our Canadian pilot, Leading Harvest continues to demonstrate that alignment across the value chain can drive greater outcomes for all. We appreciate the leadership of our Canadian pilot participants and look forward to welcoming more food and agriculture leaders from across Canada on this journey."

The Leading Harvest Canada pilot program has been facilitated with Anchoring Support from Manulife Investment Management and support from Bonnefield Financial, Farm Credit Canada, and McCain Foods. The pilot will adapt the same Farmland Management Standard that was implemented in the United States and Australia to Canada's unique agronomic, regulatory, and operating environment through further stakeholder input and field testing. Leading Harvest expects to increase participation and representation from across the agricultural value chain over the course of the pilot.

More information about Leading Harvest, the Farmland Management Standard, and how to join can be found at www.LeadingHarvest.org.

About Leading Harvest: Leading Harvest is a nonprofit organization that provides transparent standards and education to enable and validate the global transition to a more sustainable agricultural system. Its innovative, third-party audited Farmland Management Standard has been applied across diverse farming operations and crop types globally with almost 3 million acres now enrolled. It was launched in 2020 by and for stakeholders across the supply chain, from farmland owners to companies and communities, including listening sessions across regions. Leading Harvest Founding Supporters include Cargill, Nestle, John Deere, and Nutrien Ag Solutions.

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2194746/Leading_Harvest_Logo.jpg

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/leading-harvest-announces-canadian-pilot-with-representation-across-the-agricultural-value-chain-301911404.html
Partnership strengthens ContractPodAi's ability in supporting customers to rapidly adopt generative AI, securely, efficiently, and at scale

ContractPodAi, provider of the award-winning AI-powered, contract lifecycle management (CLM) platform, today announced that it has joined the Google Cloud Partner Advantage Program. ContractPodAi will further extend its Leah Legal Copilot generative AI technology capabilities by adding Google Cloud's large language models (LLMs) via Vertex AI.

ContractPodAi's best-of-breed suite of LLMs now includes Google Cloud's LLMs, which further powers Leah to bring the following benefits to customers:

Increased Efficiency: Traditional manual document review and analysis processes are time-consuming and prone to human error. By harnessing the power of generative AI and with the support of Google Cloud's LLMs, Leah can automate these tasks, drastically reducing the time required to review and analyze vast amounts of legal documents.

Traditional manual document review and analysis processes are time-consuming and prone to human error. By harnessing the power of generative AI and with the support of Google Cloud's LLMs, Leah can automate these tasks, drastically reducing the time required to review and analyze vast amounts of legal documents. Enhanced Accuracy: Legal documents often contain intricate details and complex language. The risk of missing crucial information or misinterpreting legal clauses is significantly mitigated with Leah. Leah can comprehend and extract pertinent information with references, ensuring that legal teams have access to comprehensive and precise insights.

Legal documents often contain intricate details and complex language. The risk of missing crucial information or misinterpreting legal clauses is significantly mitigated with Leah. Leah can comprehend and extract pertinent information with references, ensuring that legal teams have access to comprehensive and precise insights. Comprehensive Insights: Leah's ability to extract and analyze information from documents equips you with insights in a fraction of the time. Identify relevant clauses, key details, and critical information effortlessly across multiple documents and cases to identify connections and drive impactful legal analysis.

"This marks an important milestone that demonstrates our commitment to providing market-leading technology to customers through collaborative partnerships," said Anurag Malik, President and Chief Technology Officer at ContractPodAi. "By using Google Cloud's large language models, we can better equip law firms and legal teams to scale their digital transformation, thanks to Google Cloud's best-in-class data analytics, workplace collaboration, security, and generative AI."

"We are excited to partner with ContractPodAi to power their next-generation legal assistant, utilizing the latest generative AI models from Google Cloud. This will empower legal and financial professionals to easily analyze, negotiate, draft, and redline contracts. This will also allow customers and partners to do complex legal analysis at scale and is a unique value proposition in the legal space across industries globally," said Chandra Sankholkar, Director, Partnerships and Alliances at Google Cloud India.

Leah is a cutting-edge AI solution designed specifically to empower law firms and legal teams to enhance their work with productivity gains. Powered by generative AI and now with the addition of Google Cloud's LLMs, this innovative technology leverages the most advanced LLMs to revolutionize the way legal documents are reviewed, analyzed, summarized, created, and interconnected.

About ContractPodAi:

Recognized as a Visionary by Gartner in 2021 and 2022, ContractPodAi is on a mission to transform the way the world makes agreements. Lawyer-led and AI-powered, our 'One Legal Platform' was developed by attorneys as a solution for legal teams. Now, more than ever, it's clear legal teams aren't the only ones struggling with insurmountable workloads and complex contracts. That's why we've spent over a decade evolving our AI and CLM to offer an all-in-one platform where teams take charge of their contract management process and our new generative AI-powered Leah Legal Copilot to provide super-powered support for Legal Teams.

ContractPodAi amplifies your business's readiness through our partnerships with complementary technology providers including Microsoft, DocuSign and Salesforce. ContractPodAi is headquartered in London and has global offices in New York, Glasgow, Sydney, Mumbai, and Toronto.

Learn more about ContractPodAi at: https://contractpodai.com/

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230829506295/en/

Contacts:

Maggie Crouch

Walker Sands, for ContractPodAi

contractpodai@walkersands.com
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.
Marula Mining Plc - XRF Ore Sorters Acquired to Further Expand Processing Capacity at Blesberg

PR Newswire

LONDON, United Kingdom, August 29

Marula Mining PLC

("Marula'' or the "Company")

29 August 2023

XRF Ore Sorters Acquired to Further Expand Processing Capacity at Blesberg

Marula Mining (AQSE: MARU), an African focused mining and development company, is pleased to provide an update on the Blesberg Lithium and Tantalum Mine ("Blesberg" or the "Project"), where the Company through arrangements with Q Global Commodities ("Q Global") is completing the acquisition of two sensor-based, XRF ore sorting plants ("XRF Ore Sorters") that will now be commissioned at Blesberg in Q4 2023 and used initially to increase the production of high-grade spodumene ore from the processing of the historical stockpiles.

The XRF Ore Sorters comprise a Rados SRF100-8 ore sorter with a 30 tonnes per hour ("TPH") capacity and a Tomra COM XRT 1200 ore sorter with a 120 TPH capacity. The XRF Ore Sorters will both be included in the proposed expanded processing facilities at Blesberg that, in addition to new crushing and screening equipment, is planned to increase the production capacity of high-grade spodumene ore to over 1,000 tonnes per month ("tpm") of saleable product.

The Company is acquiring the XRF Ore Sorters for total consideration of approx. ZAR 40.6 million (1.7 million) from Q Global Mining (Pty) Ltd ("Q Mining"), a subsidiary of Q Global. Documentation for the acquisitions are currently being finalised with Q Global's lawyers, with commercial terms agreed. The Rados SRF100-8 ore sorter is to be acquired through a series of 36 monthly payments, after which ownership will be transferred to Marula. The Tomra COM XRT 1200 ore sorter acquisition cost of 750,000 are to be offset against subscription funds to be received from Q Global, pending the approval of the conditional subscription agreement and Rule 9 waiver as announced 31 January 2023.

Highlights

Agreement reached with Q Global for the ZAR 17.6 million (750,000) acquisition of a Tomra COM XRT 1200 ore sorter from Q Mining, and which is to now be refurbished ahead of commissioning at Blesberg in Q4 2023

Tomra Systems ASA ("Tomra") to be appointed to complete the refurbishment and commissioning of the Tomra COM XRT 1200 ore sorter at Blesberg

Ownership of the Tomra COM XRT 1200 ore sorter will be transferred to Marula's operating entity in South Africa once the full acquisition costs have been offset against subscription funds to be received from Q Global

Agreement also executed by Q Mining with Rados International Technologies (Malta) Limited ("Rados") for the ZAR 23 million (990,000) acquisition of a Rados SRF100-8 ore sorter, with commissioning expected to be completed at Blesberg also in Q4 2023 under the terms of this agreement

Initial deposit of ZAR 14.2 million (610,000) for the Rados SRF100-8 ore sorter already paid by Q Mining

The XRF Sorters are manufactured by industry leading groups, Rados and Tomra with their ore sorters used in some of the world's largest hard rock lithium mines in the world

The selection of the XRF Ore Sorters follows successful testwork of Blesberg samples completed in Germany and in South Africa in Q2 and Q3 2023 that confirmed the XRF Ore Sorters' effectiveness to sort the spodumene mineralisation from the quartz, feldspar and mica mineralisation also present at Blesberg

Production of approx. 40 to 50 tonnes per day ("TPD") of a +20mm saleable high-grade lithium spodumene product is forecast from the initial processing circuit based on the testwork previously completed and with ongoing testwork to further optimise this production

The XRF Ore Sorters will form part of the proposed expanded processing facilities that are to be installed at Blesberg and will initially include a new 120TPH crushing and screening circuit, a mica removal vacuum screen and the XRF Ore Sorters that combined are proposed to produce a +20mm saleable high-grade lithium spodumene product

The further phases of the planned expanded processing facilities at Blesberg will also include processing of the fines material to maximise recovery of lithium and tantalum mineralisation and the previously announced upgrading of the spodumene product to produce a higher value carbonate product

Work has already commenced on site for the installation of the initial expanded processing facilities

The expanded processing facilities at Blesberg are designed to process the current stockpiles material from the historic mining activities and to also form part of the processing facilities as part of the broader development plans of a large scale open pit mining operation

Jason Brewer, Marula Mining PLC CEO said:

"Investment in the Blesberg Lithium and Tantalum Mine continues and the agreements now for the purchase of two XRF sorters from Tomra and Rados are a significant step for the Company and one that will have a material impact on the operation in terms of anticipated production of a high-grade saleable spodumene product.

"Manufacture of the Rados ore sorter is already underway in South Africa and the Tomra ore sorter is already in South Africa and is just awaiting agreement with Tomra on its refurbishment.

"Together these two ore sorters along with the new crushing and screening circuit will allow us to move towards our target levels of producing up to 50 tonnes per day of a saleable lithium spodumene product from the current processing of the historic stockpiles. The operations at Blesberg will quickly become a significant part of Marula's portfolio of battery metals projects.

"The support once again from Q Global Commodities is evident and their role in supporting us as we develop Blesberg is very much appreciated. I welcome their support and assistance as we continue to deliver on our strategy and focus on mine development."

The Directors of Marula are responsible for the contents of this announcement. This announcement contains inside information for the purposes of UK Market Abuse Regulation.

About Marula Mining

Marula Mining (AQSE: MARU) is an African focused battery metals investment and exploration company and has interests in several high value mine projects in Africa; Blesberg Lithium and Tantalum Mine in South Africa, Nkombwa Hill Project in Zambia and Kinusi Copper Mine, Bagamoyo Graphite Project and Nyorinyori Graphite Project in Tanzania. As we advance operations at these battery metals focused projects, Marula will continue to build and expand its interests in other high-quality projects in Africa.

Marula's strategy is to identify and invest in advanced and high-value mining projects throughout East, Central and Southern Africa that the Directors believe would deliver returns for its shareholders. The Board and management team aims to establish Marula as a socially and environmentally responsible, sustainable, and profitable producer of critical metals and commodities that are of increasingly strategic importance to modern technologies and the global economy.

Marula's shares are traded on the AQUIS Stock Exchange (AQSE), Marula is exploring opportunities to admit its shares to trading on AIM, the market operated by the London Stock Exchange Group plc, Kenya's Nairobi Securities Exchange and South Africa's Johannesburg Stock Exchange.

For enquiries contact:

Marula Mining PLC Jason Brewer, Chief Executive Officer Faith Kinyanjui Mumbi Investor Relations Email: jason@marulamining.com Email: info@marulamining.com AQSE Corporate Adviser Cairn Financial Advisers LLP, Liam Murray / Ludovico Lazzaretti +44 (0)20 7213 0880 Broker Peterhouse Capital Limited,

Charles Goodfellow / Duncan Vasey +44 (0)20 7469 0930 Financial PR and IR BlytheRay Tim Blythe / Megan Ray / Said Izagaren +44 (0)20 7138 3204

Caution;

Certain statements in this announcement, are, or may be deemed to be, forward looking statements. Forward looking statements are identi?ed by their use of terms and phrases such as 'believe', 'could', "should" 'envisage', 'estimate', 'intend', 'may', 'plan', 'potentially', "expect", 'will' or the negative of those, variations or comparable expressions, including references to assumptions. These forward-looking statements are not based on historical facts but rather on the Directors' current expectations and assumptions regarding the Company's future growth, results of operations, performance, future capital and other expenditures (including the amount, nature and sources of funding thereof), competitive advantages, business prospects and opportunities. Such forward looking statements re?ect the Directors' current beliefs and assumptions and are based on information currently available to the Directors.
NEW YORK, NY / ACCESSWIRE / August 29, 2023 / Starting retirement planning and acting on it early generally results in greater funds for retirement. However, this does not imply it is ever too late to learn how to plan your retirement strategically. These experienced insights from Yieldstreet can help you develop a plan, regardless of where you are on your career path.

What's Your Time Horizon?

Ideally, you'll start putting money away when you're in your 20s. This enables you to maximize the compounding of interest and gives you the ability to invest more aggressively. Preservation of capital should anchor your strategy as you get older. This typically means bonds and other fixed-income securities. Riskier investments such as stocks can offer greater earnings potential when you have a longer time horizon. Learning how to invest in real estate can be beneficial at any age.

The Amount of Money You'll Need

This will vary based on your current income, your retirement age and the activities you'd like to enjoy in retirement. Some counselors advise saving at least 12 years of your pre-retirement income. However, the exact amount will vary depending on the type of life you'd like to live and the lifestyle to which you are accustomed. A retirement calculator can help you determine your target figure.

When to Claim Social Security Benefits

Waiting until you've reached full retirement age to claim your Social Security benefit is a good play. For people born in 1960 or later, this means 67 years of age. Claiming the benefit earlier reduces the amount you'll receive each month-forever. With that said, there are very few places one can live in the U.S. in which Social Security income will provide all of the funding needed to live a comfortable life. It's best to look at that benefit as part of the retirement income package, rather than the entire package.

Determine Your Withdrawal Approach

The order in which you withdraw funds from your retirement accounts will have a profound effect upon your tax burden. You'll also want to draw income from your investments before your retirement accounts to afford the latter more time to compound interest.

Plan for Taxes

You'll need to consider the after-tax return potential of your investment stratagems to get an accurate picture of the amount you'll need to put away. You'll also need to have an idea of your tax status when you begin withdrawals. Here again, a good retirement calculator can be an invaluable tool.

Adequate Estate Planning

Best-case scenario, you'll build a portfolio that can deliver returns capable of supporting your retirement needs, while preserving its value. You can then pass it on to your beneficiaries. It's also important to have a succession plan, as well as adequate insurance, to help your descendants avoid unnecessary expenses.

These insights on how to plan your retirement strategically can help ensure your retirement plan is both workable and effective to maximize the superannuation funding available to you.

Contact Information

Seba Koshy

Account Manager

seba@mashmarketing.digital

SOURCE: Yieldstreet

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/776020/How-to-Plan-Your-Retirement-Strategically
Newswire shares three brand-building benefits of consistent press release distribution.

RALEIGH, NC / ACCESSWIRE / August 29, 2023 / Press release distribution is like a microphone that amplifies a company's voice. With it, brands can get their message out to their target audience, build brand recognition, and establish themselves as experts in their industry.

Newswire, an industry leader in press release distribution services, including content production, strategy, and planning, as well as media technology, understands this and provides the tools to help companies distribute the right message to the right audience at the right time.

"The opportunity for companies of all sizes and industries to capture the attention of the media and their target audiences through consistent press release distribution is theirs for the taking," said Jennifer Hammers, Executive Vice President of Sales and Marketing at Issuer Direct. "Companies that create and distribute a steady cadence of press releases put themselves in a position to build brand awareness, attract website traffic, improve search engine optimization performance, increase sales, and more."

The brand-building benefits of consistent and strategic press release distribution include but aren't limited to:

Trust - Distributing relevant and newsworthy press releases is an effective way for brands to build recognition in the market and create a level of trust that promotes new business and earned media opportunities.

- Distributing relevant and newsworthy press releases is an effective way for brands to build recognition in the market and create a level of trust that promotes new business and earned media opportunities. Thought leadership - The more value a brand provides, the better its chances are of securing opportunities to position its company as a thought leader.

- The more value a brand provides, the better its chances are of securing opportunities to position its company as a thought leader. Targeting - Newswire provides targeted distribution lists that help companies cast a wider net to reach the media and their target audiences.

To learn more about Newswire's press release distribution services, visit newswire.com.

About Newswire

Newswire is a media technology company that provides its clients with the Press Release Optimizer, which consists of press release distribution, media databases, media monitoring, and newsrooms that power the Media Advantage: greater brand awareness through earned media, increased online visibility through greater SEO recognition, and more sales inquiries through targeted digital marketing campaigns.

Through its disruptive Press Release Optimizer, relentless commitment to customer satisfaction, and passion for customer performance, Newswire is automating media and marketing communications for large and small businesses seeking to deliver the right message to the right audience at the right time for the right purpose.

To learn more about Newswire and its Press Release Optimizer, visit Newswire.com and discover why our customers have named us #1 for Customer Satisfaction and Ease of Use for four years in a row. For more information, visit http://www.newswire.com.

Newswire is a wholly owned subsidiary of Issuer Direct, a leading communications and compliance company, providing solutions for both Public Relations and Investor Relations Professionals. For more information, please visit www.issuerdirect.com.

Contact Information

Jennifer Hammers

Executive Vice President of Sales & Marketing

jennifer.hammers@issuerdirect.com

919.481.4000

SOURCE: Newswire

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/777779/Consistent-Press-Release-Distribution-Can-Increase-Exposure-for-Companies
In a move that aims to redefine the digital sales landscape, Jeremy McGilvrey's ClickFunnels Expert Agency unveils a fresh suite of design services.

Houston, Texas--(Newsfile Corp. - August 29, 2023) - Jeremy McGilvrey's agency introduces their specialized ClickFunnels design services, tailored for businesses aiming to optimize their sales funnels.







Jeremy McGilvrey's ClickFunnels Expert Agency Launches Comprehensive Design Services

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/8843/178193_7e6866ac9434ca0d_001full.jpg

The agency's design services are crafted to meet the distinct needs of businesses striving for a seamless sales funnel experience.

A strong emphasis on user-friendly and adaptive designs is evident in the agency's approach. The team ensures that client sales funnels are fine-tuned and optimized for tablet and mobile responsive browsing, addressing a critical aspect that often leads potential customers away due to poor user experience. Comprehensive tests are conducted across diverse digital platforms, ensuring smooth user interactions, rapid load times, and captivating visuals.

Underpinning the value of an efficient sales funnel in today's digital ecosystem, Jeremy McGilvrey, the Harvard-educated agency founder and CEO, commented, "Our ClickFunnels design services are built upon industry-leading standards and a user-first approach, ensuring businesses can navigate the digital terrain with confidence."

The agency comprises a diverse group of top-tier designers with expertise in funnel optimization techniques. Engaging with the ClickFunnels agency promises a collaborative approach where the resulting sales funnels are not only visually striking but rooted in functionality.

To affirm their commitment to quality, the agency extends a satisfaction-based guarantee for their clients. Should there be any discrepancy in the delivered service, a full refund is promptly provided, indicating the trust the agency places in their craft.

Recognized as an industry leader in the ClickFunnels design domain, the agency extends its services with a professional touch. The team is dedicated to funnel excellence and aims to establish themselves as a preferred choice for businesses seeking effective digital solutions.

For those interested in diving deeper into the offerings of the agency and to collaborate with a ClickFunnels expert, more information is available at: https://www.jeremymcgilvrey.com/clickfunnels-expert.

Media Contact:

Contact: Jeremy McGilvrey

Address: 1 Riverway Ste. 1724, Houston, TX 77056

Phone: (800) 746-1522

Email: Hi@JeremyMcGilvrey.com

Website/URL: https://www.jeremymcgilvrey.com

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/178193
The total U.S. tile market is forecast to surpass 350 million square meters within the next three years. Under the direction of a new Country Director, VitrA Tiles, a subsidiary of Turkiye's Eczacibasi Holding, is poised to capitalize on the windfall.

Atlanta, Georgia--(Newsfile Corp. - August 29, 2023) - VitrA Tiles, a leading producer of high-end ceramics, has appointed Dennis Szczybor as Country Director for its lucrative U.S. operations. The appointment of Szczybor, who previously served as Vice President at CFL Flooring, officially came into effect last month.

Caption: Dennis Szczybor, North American Director at VitrA Tiles

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"In line with VitrA Tiles' ambitious growth targets in the burgeoning North American tile market, Dennis Szczybor has assumed the position of U.S. Country Director," Hasan Pehlivan, CEO of VitrA Tiles, said.



"With his considerable experience and industry insight, we're confident Dennis will bring fresh impetus to VitrA's continued growth and expansion in North America," he added.

Tapping into America



Since assuming the post, Szczybor has sought to strengthen collaboration with existing customers while attracting new ones, improve service levels, and oversee the completion of warehouse operations.



Szczybor began his career in 1990 as a sales representative at Haines. By 2013, he was Regional Manager at Emser Tiles, later serving as Business Development Director at Home Depot until 2017.



From 2017 to 2019, he was Vice President of Sales at Armstrong Flooring, later holding the position of Vice President of Business Development at Sambling Global USA Inc.



Szczybor holds a Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration & Marketing from Maryland's Towson University.



350 million sqm industry



The total U.S. tile market is forecast to reach more than 350 million square meters within the next three years. And VitrA Tiles USA, under Szczybor's direction, is poised to capitalize on the boom.



VitrA Tiles is a subsidiary of Turkiye's Eczacibasi Holding, which also owns the Villeroy & Boch and Engers brands. Having more than 2,400 employees worldwide, it is the export champion of Turkiye's competitive tile industry, accounting for more than 50% of the country's total tile exports to Europe on a square-meter basis. VitrA Tiles is currently Germany's second largest tile supplier, and hopes to make similar inroads in the North American market.



"VitrA is one of the biggest players in Europe. We want to make VitrA Tiles a household name in North America," Dennis Szczybor said. "And as the regional market keeps trending upward, I am proud to be a part of this initiative and to lead the brand's journey in the USA with my past experience."



Contact:

Ecem Aksay, ecem.aksay@vitra.com.tr

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/178830
Thales recognised as Google Cloud Technology Partner of the Year in the Security Data Protection category

Thales has been selected as the Google Cloud Technology Partner of the Year in the Security Data Protection category. Thales was selected alongside a global field of top Google Cloud partners for excellence in developing and implementing customer solutions based on Google Cloud's technology.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230829348216/en/

Thales

The Thales and Google Cloud collaboration addresses the needs of organizations around the world that are facing ever-increasing security, sovereignty, and performance requirements for their cloud deployments. With many years of cybersecurity expertise, Thales provides the level of trust and security required for customers around the world to move to the cloud, while maintaining the necessary level of control. By combining Thales' platform expertise with Google Cloud's enterprise-grade solutions and cutting-edge infrastructure, the two companies work closely on a number of broad data security initiatives.

Thales, in its constant search of excellence in its security portfolio, recently announced a new collaboration to develop data security capabilities and bring additional AI-powered features to users of its CipherTrust Data Security platform. This is powered by Google Cloud's Vertex AI machine learning capabilities, to discover, classify and protect sensitive data in the cloud. The machine learning functionality helps to automate fundamental tasks for customers and ensure their sensitive cloud-hosted data remains protected.

Since late 2022, Thales' CipherTrust Cloud Key Manager has also supported Bring Your Own Key (BYOK) initiatives, including those for Google Cloud and Google Workspace. Thales and Google Cloud have also collaborated to operate a sovereign cloud joint venture (S3NS) for Google Cloud customers in France who seek to meet stringent data sovereignty requirements, such as those applicable to state and critical infrastructure organizations.

Thales has built a structured cloud offering for companies that want to meet the most demanding data protection standards. In France, S3NS, the joint venture between Thales and Google Cloud, aims to offer French companies and public institutions a solution providing the equivalent of Google Cloud compliant with the "SecNumCloud" label, a certification from the French information systems security agency (ANSSI). To date, SecNumCloud has the highest level of protection in France, excluding the protection of national defense secrets, and in Europe. S3NS has a first offering already available that offers additional guarantees controls, such as data location in Europe and external encryption managed by S3NS (based on Thales technology).

"Google Cloud's partner awards recognize the significant impact and customer success that our partners have driven over the past year," said Kevin Ichhpurani, Corporate Vice President, Global Ecosystem and Channels at Google Cloud. "We're delighted to recognize Thales as a 2023 Google Cloud Partner Award winner, and look forward to a continued strong partnership in support of our mutual customers."

Sebastien Cano, Senior Vice President of Cloud Protection and Licensing activities at Thales, commented: "We are very proud of our ongoing relationship with Google Cloud and this latest award recognises the brilliant work we've been doing with them across a range of projects. Together we are helping customers around the world discover, classify and protect their data more efficiently, and ensure their move to the cloud is as secure and compliant as possible."

Thales is also participating at Google Cloud Next, which is taking place from 29-31 August 2023. Some of the sessions include:

Keys to the Kingdom: Everything you need to know about your encryption keys with Todd Moore, VP Encryption Products at Thales

Cybersecurity Innovations from leading ISVs with Google Gen AI with Ashvin Kamaraju, VP Data Protection Engineering at Thales

How global leaders are addressing digital sovereignty requirements, with Cyprien Falque, CEO of S3NS More details about the event, which will be available to watch both live and on-demand online, can be found here.

About Thales Thales (Euronext Paris: HO) is a global leader in advanced technologies within three domains: Defence Security, Aeronautics Space, and Digital Identity Security. It develops products and solutions that help make the world safer, greener and more inclusive. The Group invests close to 4 billion a year in Research Development, particularly in key areas such as quantum technologies, Edge computing, 6G and cybersecurity. Thales has 77,000 employees in 68 countries. In 2022, the Group generated sales of 17.6 billion.

PLEASE VISIT

Thales Group

Cloud Protection Licensing Solutions Thales Group

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230829348216/en/

Contacts:

PRESS CONTACT

Thales, Media Relations

Security Cybersecurity

Marion Bonnet

+33 (0)6 60 38 48 92

marion.bonnet@thalesgroup.com
The Baseline acquisition adds new capabilities to Hyver - CYE's advanced CRQO platform; Baseline builds context around vulnerabilities to enable dynamic and accurate risk analysis and prioritization.

TEL AVIV, Israel, Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- CYE, the industry leader in cybersecurity optimization, today announced the company has acquired Baseline , a vulnerability analysis platform by Cyberillium. CYE will incorporate Baseline's capabilities into its Hyver platform, enabling automated attack route creation and prioritization based on Baseline novel context-aware algorithms.

"I have a great appreciation for the Cyberillium team, the technology they have built, and their innovative approach to data management. I am excited to integrate Baseline with Hyver," said Reuven (Rubi) Aronashvili, CEO and Founder of CYE. "As part of this acquisition, Baseline's advanced capabilities in collecting data around vulnerabilities and prioritizing them based on deep context will be integrated into Hyver to enrich our CRQ engine."

Currently, security teams manage endless amounts of vulnerability data without proper context, however, analysis shows that only 2% of detected vulnerabilities are exploitable and relevant to their organization.

Baseline is a new approach to vulnerability management. The solution combines and organizes data about vulnerabilities by the impact to the business. By analyzing the telemetry from security and IT tools, Baseline builds an attack path map, automatically triages vulnerabilities, determines exploitability, helps identify the root cause of issues, and provides relevant information to build the right threat model.

"We built Baseline after experiencing first-hand how difficult it is to prevent attackers from infiltrating and taking over entire networks in a large enterprise environment," explains Liam Stein, CEO of Cyberillium. "Our main motivation was to create something that would truly make a dent in global cyber-attack statistics by making such attacks impossibly difficult for the attacker. We see this event with CYE as an opportunity to make a real change by bringing this technology quickly to thousands of companies around the world."

"The addition of Baseline platform capabilities to Hyver will help our customer quantify vulnerability related risk and implement the most optimal remediation actions," said Michael Gendelman, VP R&D at CYE. "I'm excited to join forces with the talented team at Cyberillium. We're truly impressed by their depth of expertise and passion for solving real customer pain points."

About CYE

CYE's SaaS platform and expert guidance enable security leaders to create and execute optimized organizational security programs with significant business impact. CYE analyzes data to predict probable attack routes, quantifies the potential financial consequences of cyber risk, and provides clarity to stakeholders. By delivering relevant business insights, CYE empowers companies to make effective decisions that reduce organizational cyber risk. The company serves large and mid-market companies in multiple industries around the world. With headquarters in Israel and offices in New York and London, CYE is funded by EQT Private Equity and 83North.

About Cyberillium

Founded in 2021 by Arbel Admoni and Liam Stein, Cyberillium is a security research firm providing product security research and adversary simulation services for companies around the world. Cyberillium's mission is to make cybercrime a cost-ineffective endeavor. The company focuses on customers that have a uniquely high-risk threat profile and require a high level of cyber defense. In addition to its research services portfolio, Cyberillium develops unique technology designed to automate security research and bolster its customers' security posture. Visit Cyberillium at cyberillium.com.

Media Contact:

Katie Brookes

Merritt Group

brookes@merrittgrp.com

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/cye-announces-the-acquisition-of-baseline---the-vulnerability-analysis-and-prioritization-platform-by-cyberillium-301912606.html
Sonfu Digital Solutions LLC has announced the launch of Wellness Accelerated System, a customer reactivation program aimed at gym and spa owners.

Colonial Heights, Virginia--(Newsfile Corp. - August 24, 2023) - Sonfu Digital Solutions, an online marketing firm, is now offering an innovative and cost-effective way for business owners to re-engage inactive customers to drive repeat business and lower acquisition costs.

More details can be found at https://go.sonfudigital.com/vsl.

Sonfu Digital Solutions Announces Client Reactivation Service for Gyms & Spas

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The Wellness Accelerated System leverages proven customer reactivation strategies to warm up cold leads and encourage them to purchase again from clients. Though the system can work for any business, it is specifically designed to cater to the needs of businesses in the wellness and fitness sectors, according to Sonfu Digital Solutions.

The company's unique client acquisition system builds on the data that shows businesses are 60-70% more likely to succeed in selling to an existing customer than to a new one. For this reason, the Wellness Accelerated System works to identify the reason for customer disengagement in the first place and proposes ways businesses can rectify these frictions to increase conversions and customer satisfaction.

Using a series of carefully crafted messages delivered via SMS, social media, email, and phone calls, the agency helps clients restart conversations with previously active customers. Each reactivation campaign is designed to get new clients from existing leads in less than 90 days, generating a steady flow of high-value customers for the business.

Additional information can be found at https://www.sonfudigital.com/blog/b/bringing-the-dead-back-to-life-how-to-effectively-reactivate-customers.

"Reactivating customers who have been dormant for a while can lead to increased customer loyalty and higher lifetime value," says Sonnie Donaby, founder and team lead at Sonfu Digital Solutions. "Besides, customer re-engagement is a cost-effective way to fill the gap left by lost customers without dealing with high acquisition costs."

The effectiveness of the agency's strategy is underpinned by its focus on personalization and customer segmentation. This means that clients can expect Sonfu Digital Solutions to craft a tailored reactivation campaign for each identified customer segment.

Mr. Donaby offers complimentary consultations for owners of gyms, spas, and other wellness and health businesses to discuss their current business goals and strategies and ways his client reactivation system can help them lower acquisition costs.

Interested parties can find out more by visiting https://go.sonfudigital.com/vsl-2.

Contact Info:

Name: Sonnie Donaby

Email: sonnie@sonfudigital.com

Organization: Sonfu Digital Solutions LLC

Address: 84 Southgate Square #1022, Colonial Heights, VA 23834, United States

Website: https://www.sonfudigital.com

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/178363
New Service Hub integration builds on the company's existing offerings, which connect marketing, support, and sales teams to SMS customers and prospects directly from the HubSpot platform

DENVER and STOCKHOLM, Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Sinch (Sinch AB (publ) - XSTO: SINCH), which powers meaningful conversations between businesses and their customers through its Customer Communications Cloud, today announced that Sinch MessageMedia's industry-leading, two-way SMS and MMS capabilities are being integrated into HubSpot's Service Hub. This new integration provides marketing, sales and service teams with a 360-degree view of customers' communications all within the platform, ensuring full visibility across their business and consistent message delivery across channels.

"Businesses today face the ongoing challenge of juggling customer inquiries and engagements across multiple channels - email, phone, SMS and social. Through this new SMS and MMS Service Hub integration, Sinch MessageMedia makes it easy to streamline communications throughout the entirety of the customer journey. By connecting each part of our customers' businesses together - from marketing and sales to service and support - we ensure the right messages reach the right people on the platforms they prefer," said Doug Rubingh, President, U.S. & U.K., Sinch MessageMedia.

"Our customers want to achieve great results fast, and we're always looking to provide solutions and tools that will help them do their jobs quickly and streamline operations," said Scott Brinker, VP of platform ecosystem at HubSpot. "Sinch MessageMedia's offering is a great option for achieving that efficiency, and we're excited that they're a part of the App Partner Program."

In today's macroeconomic environment, it is increasingly important for brands to maintain a strong sense of connection with their customers, and conversational messaging bolsters these customer engagement efforts. In fact, research from Sinch MessageMedia shows customers are 82% more likely to have a favorable impression of a company's brand simply by being able to engage in two-way conversations.

Sinch MessageMedia's SMS for HubSpot solution provides powerful one-to-one conversational messaging that enables brands to build stronger relationships with their customers. In addition to this new Service Hub integration, Sinch MessageMedia is also compatible across other areas of HubSpot's CRM platform, including the Marketing and Sales Hubs. Specific benefits include:

Real-Time Communication: Customers today expect instantaneous responses - especially when reaching out for support. Recent Sinch MessageMedia research found that 33% of customers expect an immediate response when digitally connecting with a brand; SMS can help businesses deliver prompt service, respond to urgent issues, and maintain real-time communication with customers, all within the Service Hub.

Customers today expect instantaneous responses - especially when reaching out for support. Recent Sinch MessageMedia research found that 33% of customers expect an immediate response when digitally connecting with a brand; SMS can help businesses deliver prompt service, respond to urgent issues, and maintain real-time communication with customers, all within the Service Hub. Customer Engagement: SMS messages have high open rates; using this channel for customer service can lead to higher engagement rates, more reliable delivery of critical updates and information, and more satisfied customers.

SMS messages have high open rates; using this channel for customer service can lead to higher engagement rates, more reliable delivery of critical updates and information, and more satisfied customers. Personalized Service: With HubSpot's CRM capabilities and Sinch MessageMedia's integration, businesses can personalize their SMS communications based on customer information and previous interactions, improving customer experience. This can lead to more effective, customer-centric service, and save teams time getting up to speed.

With HubSpot's CRM capabilities and Sinch MessageMedia's integration, businesses can personalize their SMS communications based on customer information and previous interactions, improving customer experience. This can lead to more effective, customer-centric service, and save teams time getting up to speed. Automation Opportunities: With HubSpot's automation capabilities, businesses can automate certain SMS communications, such as appointment reminders, order updates, delivery reminders, and service updates. This helps businesses improve efficiency and consistency in their customer service.

With HubSpot's automation capabilities, businesses can automate certain SMS communications, such as appointment reminders, order updates, delivery reminders, and service updates. This helps businesses improve efficiency and consistency in their customer service. 360-Degree View & Centralized Communication History: All SMS communications are logged within the same system as other customer interactions, providing support agents with a comprehensive view of each customer's communication history, enabling them to deliver more informed and cohesive service.

To learn more about Sinch MessageMedia's capabilities, visit the team at INBOUND (Booth 20) in Boston, September 5-8, 2023 or explore the website here.

CONTACT:

For more information:

Marcel Kay

Global PR Director

marcel.kay@sinch.com

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/sinch-messagemedia-announces-increased-capabilities-of-its-hubspot-sms--mms-integration-301912680.html
MILWAUKEE, WI / ACCESSWIRE / August 29, 2023 / In a significant move to combat the ongoing opioid epidemic that has ravaged communities across the United States, Serve You Rx announced the transition of ownership of its life-saving Overdose Aid Kit (OAK) program to the Clinton Foundation. This transition was unveiled during a press conference held on August 16, 2023, hosted by the Georgia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities (DBHDD) as part of the launch of the month-long "Mobilize Recovery Across Georgia Bus Tour."

Overdose Aid Kit (OAK)

In a significant move to combat the ongoing opioid epidemic that has ravaged communities across the United States, Serve You Rx announced the transition of ownership of its life-saving Overdose Aid Kit (OAK) program to the Clinton Foundation.

The opioid epidemic has devastated communities nationwide, with 109,000 lives lost to drug overdose in the United States in 2022 alone. In light of this urgent need for intervention, the transition of the OAK program to the Clinton Foundation holds great promise for its national scalability and impact.

During the press conference, Chris Thrasher, Chief Executive Officer of the Substance Use Disorders and Recovery Division at the Clinton Foundation, highlighted the Foundation's ongoing commitment to addressing the opioid crisis. He stated, "The OAK Program is a brand-new Clinton initiative that will work to get naloxone into as many businesses, schools, government agencies, and households as possible by installing these boxes. And we are grateful for our partnership with Serve You Rx for transitioning this program over to us at the Clinton Foundation so we can begin to scale it nationally."

Justin Jasniewski, CEO of Serve You Rx, expressed enthusiasm for the transition, noting, "We are thrilled to entrust our OAK Program to the Clinton Foundation, especially during such a pivotal moment in the nation's fight against overdose deaths and addiction. With the Foundation's resources, passion, and commitment, we're confident that they will amplify the OAK mission of delivering life-saving naloxone to those that need it and meeting them where they are in their communities without shame or stigma."

The OAK Program represents a crucial step in saving lives and mitigating the far-reaching impacts of the opioid crisis. As the Georgia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities partners with the Clinton Foundation to launch the "Mobilize Recovery Across Georgia Bus Tour," this collaboration is a beacon of hope and progress in the ongoing battle against addiction.

About Serve You Rx

Serve You Rx is a full-service pharmacy solutions provider based in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, that specializes in pharmacy benefit management, mail order services, and specialty medication management. For more than 36 years, Serve You Rx has been collaborating with benefit advisors, third-party administrators, and employer groups to design and deliver strategies that reduce prescription drug costs and ensure appropriate utilization of and access to affordable and clinically appropriate medication therapies.

Contact Information

Nancy Fleming

Marketing Director

nfleming@serveyourx.com

414-410-8164

SOURCE: Serve You Rx

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/777225/Serve-You-Rx-Transitions-Ownership-of-Overdose-Aid-Kit-OAK-Program-to-the-Clinton-Foundation-for-National-Scaling
Owner brings over 30 years of experience in cyber, defense, engineering, and finance to Technology Staffing Agency.

ST. LOUIS, MO / ACCESSWIRE / August 29, 2023 / NEXTAFF, an industry leader in providing quality talent for businesses, announced the opening of a technology staffing agency location in St. Louis, Missouri.

Dan Berger, Owner of NEXTAFF of St Louis - Technologh

Headshot of Dan Berger, the owner of NEXTAFF of St Louis - Technology





The St Louis staffing office is owned and operated by Dan Berger and will be located in St. Louis, however, will have the capacity to recruit and service nationwide. The office will focus primarily on staffing and recruiting for the technology sector.

"I am thrilled to open my new staffing agency and to have the opportunity toward making a positive impact in my community," said Dan Berger, owner of NEXTAFF of St Louis - Technology. "Also, a wise man once told me 'To be successful in your career find a mentor'. Being part of the Nextaff community will give me the opportunity to help shape future technology leaders."

"Dan has so much specialized experience, I am excited to see him leverage that in the technology staffing sector," says Cary Daniel, Co-Founder and CEO of Nextaff. "Dan's many years of service to our country also provides him a unique vantage point in recruiting and I am thrilled to have someone of his caliber on our team."

The office is located at 5377 State Hwy N, Suite 396, Cottleville, MO 66304. More information can be found at NEXTAFF of St Louis - Technology.

"I am looking forward to connecting with our clients and candidates, alike, and placing quality talent in fulfilling positions that meet their and our client's needs," said Berger.

About NEXTAFF

NEXTAFF helps companies recruit, screen and hire quality talent through our proprietary X-FACTOR model. Our comprehensive approach is designed to considerably outperform a traditional temp agency supplier model. Each NEXTAFF office is locally owned and operated, which allows our clients to work directly with owners in finding quality employees. NEXTAFF offers a variety of custom staffing solutions in commercial, healthcare and technology verticals.

For more information about NEXTAFF, visit https://www.nextaff.com. Those interested in franchise opportunities can visit https://www.nextaff-franchise.com.

Contact Information

Jennifer Walker

Marketing Manager

pr@nextaff.com

SOURCE: NEXTAFF

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/777791/Staffing-Industry-Leader-NEXTAFF-Opens-St-Louis-MO-Technology-Office
Leading regulatory technology innovator, Thentia, secures top industry accolade as Google's Technology Partner of the Year for Government, affirming Thentia Cloud's capabilities in advancing regulatory processes worldwide.

SAN FRANCISCO, Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Thentia, a leading innovator in regulatory technology, announced today it has received the Google Cloud 2023 Industry Solution Technology Partner of the Year - Government Award. This honor further cements Thentia Cloud's position as the industry's preferred technology platform for government agencies, propelling transformative advancements within the global regulatory landscape.

The award stands as a testament to the company's notable progress in advancing government regulatory technology, firmly established within the Google Cloud ecosystem. Thentia Cloud, a low-code, end-to-end platform, centralizes, digitizes, and optimizes the full spectrum of regulatory processes. Thoughtfully architected for government and regulatory agencies, the platform's seamless integration with Google Cloud sparks a new era of digitization and efficiency for the public sector.

"We are thrilled and grateful to receive this esteemed award - a true testament to Thentia's unwavering dedication to innovation. Our collaborative efforts with Google Cloud have been instrumental in enabling government agencies to harness the full potential of the cloud. Together, we are empowering our customers with solutions to digitize, secure, and modernize their everyday regulatory processes," says Julian Cardarelli, CEO, Thentia.

Cardarelli emphasizes that Thentia's partnership with Google Cloud has been a powerful force, and the team eagerly looks forward to continued collaboration to partner with governments embracing software innovation and modernization.

"This recognition not only reaffirms our commitment to delivering impactful and forward-thinking solutions, but also validates the hard work and dedication of our teams in driving transformation within the public sector," Cardarelli adds.

"Google Cloud's partner awards recognize the significant impact and customer success that our partners have driven over the past year," says Kevin Ichhpurani, Corporate Vice President, Global Ecosystem and Channels at Google Cloud. "We're delighted to recognize Thentia as a 2023 Google Cloud Partner Award winner, and look forward to a continued strong partnership in support of our mutual customers."

Thoughtfully built for regulators, by regulators, Thentia is driving regulatory transformation for hundreds of boards and agencies worldwide with a platform that manages the full spectrum of regulatory processes. Hosted on the Google Cloud Platform, Thentia Cloud empowers regulators to transcend the constraints of legacy processes, custom-built solutions, and disparate applications, setting new standards in efficiency and effectiveness. For more information, visit thentia.com.

For media inquiries, please contact:

Kerri-Lynn Kilbey,

Communications Manager,

T: (437) 703-9412,

E: kerri-lynn.kilbey@thentia.com

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2196275/Thentia_Corporation_Thentia_wins_Google_Cloud_s_2023_Technology.jpg





View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/thentia-wins-google-clouds-2023-technology-partner-of-the-year-award--government-301912682.html
CHICAGO, Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Kin + Carta announced today that it received a 2023 Google Cloud Industry Solution Services Partner of the Year Award for Retail Digital Growth.

Kin + Carta was recognized for its achievements in the Google Cloud ecosystem, helping joint customers enhance their customer experiences with relevant search outcomes quickly and continuously, demonstrated by its success with both a global marketplace and a US car parts provider.

Working with these clients, both of which were seeing high levels of search and cart abandonment, Kin + Carta implemented AI-driven solutions, using Google Cloud's Discovery AI for Retail. The results saw improvements across all head, tail and zero result search cases - in one instance there was an uptick of 1462%, and therefore projected increased revenue.

Kin + Carta is continuing to provide clients with Google Cloud solutions like Recommendations AI, Vision API Product Search, Google Analytics, Vertex AI and Looker.

"Google Cloud's partner awards recognize the significant impact and customer success that our partners have driven over the past year," said Kevin Ichhpurani, Corporate Vice President, Global Ecosystem and Channels at Google Cloud. "We're delighted to recognize Kin + Carta as a 2023 Google Cloud Partner Award winner, and look forward to a continued strong partnership in support of our mutual customers."

Robbie Clews , Senior Director of Google Cloud at Kin + Carta commented, "Kin + Carta has a long history of helping retailers transform their businesses through digital transformation and we are grateful to be recognized by Google Cloud for the impact we've made."

"The consumer experience of search on many retailers' websites is sadly lacking. As reliance on search capabilities & high expectations for on-point results increase, the trend towards sub-optimal customer experience will grow. Google Cloud's Discovery AI for Retail has changed all that."

"At Kin + Carta, we are helping retailers solve the pervasive problem of search abandonment with the Retail Search component of this next-gen, machine-learning-based platform."

About Kin + Carta

Kin + Carta is a global digital transformation consultancy and Certified Google Cloud Partner working alongside our 40+ joint clients together since 2017. With 2,000 consultants, engineers and data scientists, and Google Cloud designated expertise in 4 verticals, 8 product technologies, and 9 solution areas, our 6+ year partnership brings the connective power of technology, data, and experience to the world's most influential companies. As a Certified B Corp with a triple bottom line focus on people, the planet, and profit, the consultancy helps its clients to deliver products, platforms, and services that are accessible, inclusive, and sustainable.

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/kin--carta-wins-google-cloud-industry-solution-services-partner-of-the-year-award-for-retail-digital-growth-301912672.html
Road Town, British Virgin Islands--(Newsfile Corp. - August 29, 2023) - LBank Exchange, a global digital asset trading platform, listed Solidus AI Tech (AITECH) on August 28, 2023. For all users of LBank Exchange, the AITECH/USDT trading pair is now officially available for trading.

AITECH Listing Banner

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Solidus AI Tech (AITECH) is an innovative technology company that has established a cutting-edge, environmentally conscious High-Performance Computing Data Centre and introduced the groundbreaking deflationary AITECH token, providing an ecosystem for AIaaS, BaaS, IaaS, and a developer-centric marketplace. Its native token, AITECH, was listed on LBank Exchange at 19:00 UTC on August 28, 2023, with the goal of expanding its global footprint and supporting the realization of its forward-thinking objectives.

Introducing Solidus AI Tech

Solidus has successfully constructed an environmentally conscious, state-of-the-art High-Performance Computing (HPC) Data Centre spanning over 8,000 square feet. This facility is strategically situated in a highly secure European location. In conjunction with this remarkable achievement, Solidus is poised to unveil the world's pioneering deflationary Artificial Intelligence token, known as AITECH. This token will serve as a payment gateway for licensing Artificial Intelligence as a Service (AIaaS), Blockchain as a Service (BaaS), and accessing HPC resources via their Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS) platform.

Furthermore, Solidus intends to establish an exclusive marketplace catering to software developers, enabling them to launch Artificial Intelligence software applications for end-users to license.

Solidus's AI platform handles complex computation-intensive data analysis tasks with a user-friendly self-service portal and offers tailored services for governmental authorities, corporations, SMEs, and professionals. Additionally, Solidus provides distributed ledger support for diverse government and public sector applications. Their Gov. Blockchain solutions include a full stack of enterprise tools for private chains, enabling secure access, validation of transactions, and solutions for smart contracts, asset and identity management, and process automation. The company also offers a Vulnerability Monitoring Platform with stringent security measures, including a unique asset identification protocol and specially designed firewalls, aligning with NATO-compliant standards for safeguarding sensitive information.

Solidus's roadmap reflects their commitment to continuous growth and improvement. From establishing partnerships and expanding the company's presence in the market to launching innovative platforms like AITECH Staking and AI Marketplace, Solidus aims to be on a trajectory of expansion and evolution.

About AITECH Token

Solidus raised $6,960,416 to complete its HPC data center, IaaS software, and support operations, and aims to raise up to $42.8 million through equity sales for expansion.

Based on BEP20, AITECH has a total supply of 2 billion (i.e. 2,000,000,000). It was listed on LBank Exchange at 19:00 UTC on August 28, 2023, investors who are interested in AITECH can easily buy and sell it on LBank Exchange now.

Learn More about AITECH Token:

Official Website: https://www.aitech.io/

Contract: https://bscscan.com/token/0x2d060ef4d6bf7f9e5edde373ab735513c0e4f944

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AITECHio

Twitter: https://twitter.com/AITECHio

Telegram: https://t.me/solidusaichat

Discord: https://discord.com/invite/solidusai

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aitechio/

Reddit: https://www.reddit.com/user/AITECHtoken/

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LBank is one of the top crypto exchanges, established in 2015. It offers specialized financial derivatives, expert asset management services, and safe crypto trading to its users. The platform holds over 9 million users from more than 210 regions across the world. LBank is a cutting-edge growing platform that ensures the integrity of users' funds and aims to contribute to the global adoption of cryptocurrencies.

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To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/178853
Edmonton, Alberta--(Newsfile Corp. - August 29, 2023) - Peruvian Metals Corp. (TSXV: PER) (OTCQB: DUVNF) ("Peruvian Metals" or the "Company") is pleased to provide an update on the recent Annual General Meeting of Shareholders ("AGM") held on August 23rd.

At the annual general meeting of shareholders, 67,712,353 shares were voted representing 67.89% of the outstanding shares of the company. All resolutions received majority shareholder approval for the following:

Re-elected the incumbent five directors for the ensuing year (see an attached table).

Nominee Votes For Votes Against % of Votes For % of Votes Against Steve Brunelle 67,307,641 404,712 99.40 0.60 Oscar Pezo 67,548,641 163,712 99.76 0.20 John P. Thompson 67,307,641 404,712 99.40 0.60 Jeffey Reeder 67,548,641 163,712 99.76 0.24 Daniel Hamilton 67,307,641 404,712 99.40 0.60



To appoint Zeifmans LLP, Chartered Accountants, as auditors for the ensuing year.

Motion Votes For Votes Abstain % of Votes For % of Votes Abstain Appointment of Auditors 67,550,069 162,284 99.76 0.24





To ratify, confirm and approve the company's updated 10-per-cent rolling stock option plan, as required under amended TSV Venture Exchange Policy 4.4.

Motion Votes For Votes Against % of Votes For % of Votes Against Rolling Stock Option Plan 67,537,000 174,853 99.74 0.26





Details of the matters approved at the meeting are set out in the company's information circular dated August 4th, 2023, and available under the company's profile on SEDAR.

About Peruvian Metals Corp.

Peruvian Metals Corp. is a Canadian Exploration and Mineral Processing company. Our business model is to provide toll milling services for clients and to produce high grade concentrates from mineral purchases. The Company continues to acquire and develop precious and base metal properties in Peru.

For further information on Peruvian Metals Corp. please visit www.peruvianmetals.com.

Peruvian Metals Corp. is a Canadian resource company listed on the

TSX Venture Exchange: Symbol "PER"

For additional information, contact: Jeffrey Reeder Tel: (647) 302-3290

Website: www.peruvianmetals.com Email: jeffrey.reeder@peruvianmetals.com

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Disclosure Regarding Forward-Looking Statements: This press release contains certain "Forward-Looking Statements" within the meaning of applicable securities legislation. We use words such as "might", "will", "should", "anticipate", "plan", "expect", "believe", "estimate", "forecast" and similar terminology to identify forward looking statements and forward-looking information. Such statements and information are based on assumptions, estimates, opinions and analysis made by management in light of its experience, current conditions and its expectations of future developments as well as other factors which it believes to be reasonable and relevant. Forward-looking statements and information involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause our actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in the forward-looking statements and information and accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on such statements and information. Risks and uncertainties are more fully described in our annual and quarterly Management's Discussion and Analysis and in other filings made by us with Canadian securities regulatory authorities and available at www.sedar.com.While the Company believes that the expectations expressed by such forward-looking statements and forward-looking information and the assumptions, estimates, opinions and analysis underlying such expectations are reasonable, there can be no assurance that they will prove to be correct. In evaluating forward-looking statements and information, readers should carefully consider the various factors which could cause actual results or events to differ materially from those expressed or implied in the forward looking statements and forward-looking information.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/178870
NORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / August 29, 2023 / CRB



By Jeff Wegner, PE, CEM, LEED AP Fellow - Energy + Sustainability and Nick Dove, PE, LEED GA Mechanical Engineer

Buying a house is often the most expensive purchase of our lives. A home inspection can help prospective homebuyers make a more informed decision and potentially save thousands of dollars in maintenance, repairs, and other unwanted costs. Despite these benefits, some choose to forgo this valuable process to save a small expense.

Not having a building energy model for the design of a manufacturing facility is like this. In our experience, only a small fraction of project owners (10-20%) take advantage of energy modeling when designing a new building or assessing an existing building due to the added upfront cost. Thus, most are missing the opportunity to model for energy efficiency as a way to reduce energy consumption and, thus, operating expenses.

In fact, the most attractive reason to create a building energy model during the design phase is to lower both capital costs and operating expenses.

Making decisions at the outset of your projects about energy use-without the information that energy modeling can provide-will have lasting repercussions, at times amounting to millions of dollars in unnecessary utility costs. Given that energy modeling is inexpensive and ensures you make the wisest long-term decisions, we recommend performing energy modeling as early in the design phase as possible.

What is building energy modeling?

Energy modeling is used during the design of a manufacturing facility to quantify and optimize energy use of the building, process equipment, and supporting mechanical systems. In addition to energy consumption, these models include estimates of peak fuel demands, carbon emissions, water use, and renewable energy. Building energy modeling can identify the most efficient path, significantly reduce both capital and operating costs, and address the sustainability challenges that highly-regulated manufacturing facilities face.

How is building energy modeling applied?

The type of building dictates how energy modeling is applied. For a commercial building, such as a corporate headquarters, the building envelope heavily impacts energy expenditures, and internal heat gains are low. For these reasons, energy modeling in the commercial sector tends to focus on architecture. Glazing and the use of renewables are important, and commercial projects are more likely to aim for LEED certification, which often triggers the need for a building energy model.

Building energy modeling for pharma manufacturing facilities and their inherent processes is different. The building envelope-often a box with limited windows (e.g., a cleanroom)-is less important in terms of energy use intensity (EUI). Instead, mechanical systems needed for process technology take on far greater importance. This is why we tend to focus on mechanical energy modeling because there is significantly more CapEx and OpEx involved. In addition to space heating and air change rates, there is also steam used for sterilization and to distill water for injection (WFI), both reliant on mechanical boilers and using considerable energy. These processes also generate heat and humidity, both of which must be removed from the building.

How can energy modeling reduce costs?

Energy models for a design can help you weigh the various upfront and long-term costs associated with your project to save money, like the example given in our case study demonstrating how site selection impacted one project's utility costs by $80 million. We examine the energy implications for each of the following situations, contextualizing utility costs over time with the initial price tag, and allowing you to determine areas where you can save.

Compare types of equipment

Choosing between different types of systems (e.g., a heat pump versus an electric boiler) involves an internal discussion between the energy modeler and the mechanical engineer. Together, they weigh various options to make the best decision.

Compare equipment from different manufacturers

Consider a chiller with better peak load performance versus one that runs more efficiently under part load conditions. In this case, if there is a difference in equipment cost, the payoff of energy gains over time must be calculated to make the best decision.

Total cost of ownership (TCO)

In this case, when the client wants to know the solution with the greatest value or lowest life cycle cost, we weigh the capital cost versus the energy cost.

Optimize controls

Often an energy modeler can discover new ways to reduce energy consumption through various control strategies.

Estimating cost savings and payback time of an energy model

For energy modeling to be attractive, the costs of commissioning an energy model should be recovered within three years through reduced capital expenditures or energy savings. In fact, by comparing the costs of energy modeling with predicted energy savings, the typical payback takes less than two months for commercial buildings. Of course, every project is unique and these numbers won't necessarily apply to a pharmaceutical manufacturing plant.

How building energy modeling supports sustainability goals

Another reason to include an energy model is to achieve corporate sustainability goals. Sustainable energy solutions continue to gain popularity and most companies have decarbonization design standards that require alternatives to natural gas boilers and reduce unnecessary steam heat. We are often challenged to provide the lowest-cost option that meets user requirements or corporate sustainability goals. This creates a conflict between the total cost of ownership and the lifecycle cost, which is both CapEx and OpEx over the long term.

One of the challenges with decarbonization alternatives is that they can cost more. But when we use an energy model, and right-size the systems, we find that even 10% energy savings can translate to significant cost savings for a large manufacturing facility.

Corporate sustainability commitments could also include net zero carbon, meeting an EUI target based on a code mandate or standard. Energy models predict carbon consumption and provide the data needed to make decisions about, for example, the number of PV panels needed to offset carbon use.

Many companies are also committing to reducing water use. Water is an increasingly valuable commodity, one for which the tradeoff of consuming more energy to save water may be worthwhile, especially when clean energy alternatives are readily available.

Building energy modeling for LEED-certified projects

Although LEED certification weighs heavily on energy consumption-and whether green energy is being sourced-it also takes into account many other aspects, such as location, water, and the wellness of building occupants. By focusing, for example, on glazing, views to the outside, and indoor air quality, energy use might actually increase. Running energy models alongside your LEED scoring pursuits allows you to identify these inconsistencies in goals early on.

How does energy modeling work? And how are potential energy cost savings calculated?

Mechanical engineers calculate equipment energy loads to size equipment for the upper end, or peak, of energy use of a process. Given this load, a mechanical engineer estimates the appropriate size of a chiller or a boiler. Using software and HVAC load calculations, they will typically oversize equipment to ensure the maximum load on the plant never exceeds the available capacity. This takes into account the need to function at peak loads that, for heating and cooling, normally occur in summer and winter months, as well as meet unknowns like a potential expansion.

Energy modelers apply different thinking and methodology to calculate energy use than mechanical engineers. Using an 8760 energy model, an energy modeler strives to find the equipment sweet spot. An 8760 model refers to the number of hours in one year, and it simulates energy use for each hour throughout the year-sometimes as often as every five minutes-to prove a more accurate assessment of what is needed most of the time.

Using this detailed data, the energy modeler right-sizes the equipment to meet code energy use specifications or LEED requirements. Usually, this results in downsizing the mechanical engineer's recommended equipment, while ensuring the equipment works within the necessary range of energy loads. Additionally, a mechanical engineer assumes there are no internal heat gains in winter loads, such as employees, lights, and computers. An energy modeler takes into account more realistic schedules of operation.

Combining the expertise of mechanical engineers with that of energy modelers can immediately reduce capital costs prior to construction by right-sizing expensive equipment, such as boilers, chillers, and HVAC systems. And, for equipment like heat recovery chillers (HRCs), downsizing actually allows them to operate more efficiently. In some cases, these cost savings may not be obvious to a client, as it's part of our internal process of optimizing energy use.

Iterative and collaborative energy modeling

Depending on the scope of desired energy modeling, our process can extend through three steps of design and contain different degrees of detail. These types of building energy modeling include:

Schematic design

This first step is a quick way to represent the space. These are simple energy models-approximations used to make quick decisions-and include a list of proposed equipment. A schematic design doesn't include all the rooms within each space as these may change over time.

It's easiest to make changes at this stage before equipment has been purchased. We can anticipate expected LEED points and identify challenges.

Detailed design

Typically, the building's site orientation is set by this phase while we make a more accurate and detailed model. We may continue to run studies to assess minor equipment choices and iterate to consider options. For example, we might be assessing two different chiller manufacturers based on the efficiency of their equipment.

Code compliance or LEED submission design

This is a fully detailed energy model, with everything documented and consistent with the design drawings. Energy models are necessary to meet the city code requirements on a performance path (e.g., IECC), though they are not needed for a prescriptive path. Other models are submitted to USGBC to determine LEED certification. Some models are used for both.

How to get the most out of your energy model

1. Start early in the design

Project schedules tend to be tight. Once construction begins, there may not be leeway to compare various heating, cooling, or energy recovery options, especially since this can change schedule and adversely affect costs. This is why it's important to begin energy modeling during the schematic design phase-or even as early as strategic facility planning-to have the greatest influence on the project direction. Many projects that forego early energy modeling end up spending more to implement the same strategies later.

2. Gather inputs from all disciplines

Using a floor plan and building information modeling (BIM) software (e.g., a Revit 3D digital model), we create a unified energy model. This includes inputs from all project disciplines, including architects (e.g., type of glazing, intended use of each space), mechanical and electrical engineers (e.g., internal heat gains, HVAC system), process engineers, and the team responsible for the building schedule.

We also gather information from our clients, who share target costs, EUI, and sustainability goals.

3. Perform building energy simulations

We primarily use IESVE for building the analytical energy model and running energy simulations. This involves many steps, such as modeling the 3D geometry, replicating the construction assemblies, building the load profiles for each space, setting up the various systems, tuning the controls, and assessing the reasonableness of the outputs.

4. Decide how to apply outputs

Based on discussion with architects, mechanical engineers, and the client, we determine how to leverage the model outputs for best results. This iterative process, comparing various options, is based on our extensive project modeling, design, and execution experience.

Energy modeling gives you confidence in your building's design and your capital investment

While it's true you may not need a building energy model to design and build your facility, it's also true that this exercise often pays for itself-and quickly. But designing an energy-efficient facility, one with right-sized and optimized mechanical systems, requires experienced energy modelers.

Our building energy models have helped our clients to save millions of dollars in their facilities; for detailed examples of how we've significantly reduced costs with energy modeling, download our case studies here.

Case study 1: Local utility rates affect site selection by $80 million

Case study 2: Reducing air change rates from 40 ACH to 12 ACH

Case study 3: Heat recovery chillers are almost always a good choice

Want to learn how energy modeling can reduce the capital and energy costs on your next building project? Contact our team.

View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from CRB on 3blmedia.com.

Contact Info:

Spokesperson: CRB

Website: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/crb

Email: info@3blmedia.com

SOURCE: CRB

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/778146/How-Energy-Modeling-Can-Save-Your-Project-Millions
BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS / ACCESSWIRE / August 29, 2023 / Bradda Head Lithium Limited (AIM:BHL)(TSXV:BHLI)(OTCQB:BHLIF), the North America-focused lithium development company, today announces that it has agreed with Charles FitzRoy that he will stand down from his role as Chief Executive Officer and Board Director, with immediate effect.

Mr FitzRoy will retain his share options outlined in the AIM announcements dated 6 April 2023.

The Chairman of the Board, Mr Ian Stalker, will assume the interim role of Executive Chairman. A search for a new CEO will begin immediately.

Mr Stalker, Interim Executive Chairman, commented: "I'd like to thank Charles for his input and commitment over the last 30 months, most notably in listing the Company in Summer 2021 where 6.2 million was raised, securing a royalty partnership later that same year, and in raising approximately 10 million of fresh equity-capital in Spring of 2022. On behalf of the Board, I wish Charles the best for the future. The Board is focused on operations and delivering results on the ground in America and will look to appoint an appropriate successor in the near future."

Charles FitzRoy, commented: " I am moving on from Bradda Head after two and half years where the Company has gone from private to listed on three exchanges in the UK, US, and Canada. Raised US$24 million for progressing Bradda's US projects, and a further US$8 million was secured via a royalty. The assets have grown in both size of landholding, knowledge of the geology and also in-the-ground resources. The last two and half years have been a very rewarding experience working closely with all members of Bradda, especially the US on the ground team and I am proud of what we have achieved. I have enjoyed my time immensely moving our assets forwards, building relationships within Arizona for the long-term, and growing the Company. BHL has some fantastic projects which strategically have little rival. The Company is extremely well positioned in the US for future success. I look forward to cheering from the side-lines."

For further information please visit the Company's website: www.braddaheadltd.com

Contact:

Bradda Head Lithium Limited +44 (0) 1624 639 396 Ian Stalker, Executive Chairman

Denham Eke, Finance Director





Beaumont Cornish (Nomad)

James Biddle/Roland Cornish +44 20 7220 1666



Panmure Gordon (Joint Broker) +44 20 7886 2500 John Prior

Hugh Rich





Shard Capital (Joint Broker) +44 207 186 9927 Damon Heath

Isabella Pierre





Red Cloud (North American Broker) +1 416 803 3562 Joe Fars





Tavistock (PR) + 44 20 7920 3150 Nick Elwes

Adam Baynes braddahead@tavistock.co.uk

Notes to Editors

Bradda Head Lithium Ltd. is a North America-focused lithium development group. The Company currently has interests in a variety of projects, the most advanced of which are in Central and Western Arizona: The Basin Project (Basin East Project, and the Basin West Project) and the Wikieup Project.

The Basin East Project has an Indicated Mineral Resource of 21.2 Mt at an average grade of 891 ppm Li and 3.5% K for a total of 100 kt LCE and an Inferred Mineral Resource of 73.3 Mt at an average grade of 694 ppm Li and 3.2% K for a total of 271 kt LCE. In the rest of the Basin Project SRK has estimated an Exploration Target of between 300 to 1,300 Mt of material grading between 600 to 850 ppm Li which is equivalent to a range of between 1 to 6 Mt LCE. The Group intends to continue to develop its three phase one projects in Arizona, whilst endeavouring to unlock value at its other prospective pegmatite and brine assets in Arizona, Nevada, and Pennsylvania. All of Bradda Head's licences are held on a 100% equity basis and are in close proximity to the required infrastructure.

Bradda Head is quoted on the AIM of the London Stock Exchange with the ticker of BHL, on the TSX Ventures exchange with a ticker of BHLI, and on the US OTCQB market with a ticker of BHLIF.

This information is provided by RNS, the news service of the London Stock Exchange. RNS is approved by the Financial Conduct Authority to act as a Primary Information Provider in the United Kingdom. Terms and conditions relating to the use and distribution of this information may apply. For further information, please contact rns@lseg.com or visit www.rns.com.

SOURCE: Bradda Head Lithium Limited

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/778149/Bradda-Head-Lithium-Ltd-Announces-Directorate-Changes
Finsbury Growth & Income Trust Plc - Transaction in Own Shares

PR Newswire

LONDON, United Kingdom, August 29

For immediate release

29 August 2023

FINSBURY GROWTH & INCOME TRUST PLC

(the "Company")

MARKET PURCHASE OF COMPANY'S OWN SHARES

The Company announces that it has today purchased 100,000 of its own shares ("Ordinary Shares") at a price of 873.70 pence per Ordinary Share. Such shares will be held in treasury by the Company.

The transaction was made pursuant to the authority granted at the Annual General Meeting of the Company held on 17 January 2023.

Following this transaction, the total number of Ordinary Shares held by the Company in treasury is 18,845,544; the total number of Ordinary Shares that the Company has in issue, less the total number of Ordinary Shares held by the Company in treasury following such purchase, and therefore, the total number of voting rights in the Company is 206,145,759.

The figure of 206,145,759 may be used by shareholders as the denominator for calculations of interests in the Company's voting rights in accordance with the FCA's Disclosure Guidance and Transparency Rules.

For and on behalf of

Frostrow Capital LLP

Company Secretary

For further information, please contact:

Victoria Hale

Frostrow Capital LLP

Tel: 020 3 170 8732
MONTREAL, Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Lupin Pharma Canada Ltd., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Lupin Limited (Lupin), today announced the launch of Propranolol LA (long-acting) capsules,60 mg, 80 mg, 120 mg and 160 mg, in Canada. Propranolol LA is a generic equivalent of Inderal LA, it provides an effective treatment solution since the discontinuation of Inderal LA for patients and healthcare practitioners. Propranolol LA's launch caters to the needs of Canadian patients,reaffirming Lupin's commitment to enhancing healthcare access and affordability.

The launch of Propranolol LA, the sole extended-release formulation of Propranolol accessible to Canadian patients following the discontinuation of Inderal LA, has led to significant progress in fulfilling patient unmet needs. This extended-release variant not only ensures consistent alleviation of symptoms but also enhances patient adherence and overall quality of life.

"We are delighted to announce the launch of Propranolol LA capsules for patients in Canada. We have diligently worked to build our portfolio to include Propranolol LA ensuring patients have access to the essential medicines. This launch signifies our commitment to fostering healthcare solutions that truly make a difference,"said Dr. Sofia Mumtaz, President - Legal, Canada, Australia, and Japan, Lupin.

Lupin encourages patients to consult healthcare practitioners or pharmacists regarding the transition to Propranolol LA.

About Lupin

Lupin is an innovation-led transnational pharmaceutical company headquartered in Mumbai, India. The Company develops and commercializes a wide range of branded and generic formulations, biotechnology products, and APIs in over 100 markets in the U.S., India, South Africa, and across the Asia Pacific (APAC), Latin America (LATAM), Europe, and Middle East regions.

The Company enjoys a leadership position in the cardiovascular, anti-diabetic, and respiratory segments and has a significant presence in the anti-infective, gastro-intestinal (GI), central nervous system (CNS), and women's health areas. Lupin is the third-largest pharmaceutical company in the U.S. by prescriptions. The company invested 7.9% of its revenue in research and development in FY23.

Lupin has 15 manufacturing sites, 7 research centers, more than 20,000 professionals working globally, and has been consistently recognized as a 'Great Place to Work' in the Biotechnology & Pharmaceuticals sector.

Please visit www.lupin.com for more information.

Follow us on -

Twitter: https://twitter.com/LupinGlobal

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lupin

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/LupinWorld/

*Safe Harbor Statement

Inderal is a registered trademark of AstraZeneca UK Limited

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View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/lupin-launches-propranolol-long-acting-capsules-to-improve-heart-health-in-canada-301912839.html
NORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / August 29, 2023 / Bayer - As climate change quickens, societal expectations increase and the threat of resistance grows, new crop protection solutions are imperative. Advances in the life sciences and data-driven technologies hold the key to expanding our pipeline and unlocking powerful new possibilities for agriculture.

Listen to farmers - no matter where they are in the world - protecting their crops until harvest from damaging insects, diseases, and weeds is often the toughest part of the job. And this job is getting tougher.

Pests are becoming resistant to the limited crop protection solutions available to farmers, climate change hinders their ability to produce enough to sustain their businesses and ensure the supply of affordable food, while agricultural policy and practices are being driven by consumer expectations towards the food we eat and the health of our planet.

This is not 'just' a complex combination of challenges facing farmers, it poses a growing and existential threat to humanity given that crop protection safeguards the equivalent of food for more than 2 billion people. There is therefore an urgent need for new, effective, safe and sustainable crop protection tools.

With our industry leading innovation platform, Bayer has been successful in launching 15 new active ingredients over the last 15 years. Yet essentially, we know that innovation in crop protection needs to undergo a fundamental transformation to ensure farmers can continue to respond quickly and safely to threats to their crops in the long-term.

We need to find a new way.

Our scientists are unlocking the future of sustainable protection using an approach we call CropKey.

Target Based Discovery - Searching for the unique lock

Crop Protection - like many medicines used to cure disease - works by finding and inhibiting a given protein in the target organism. By inhibiting this one protein, the pest itself can be inhibited. This protein can be thought of as a lock and to safeguard all surrounding biodiversity our scientists need to ensure that no other organism contains this very same lock.

With more scientific understanding than ever before about the makeup of living organisms and their complex biological processes in any given environment, using AI and machine learning - the subset of AI that involves using algorithms to find patterns in data - we can identify the complex interdependencies between a theoretically unlimited number of organisms, singling out unique proteins or "locks" far faster and with greater accuracy than ever before.

Profile Driven Discovery - Designing the perfect key

Until recently, molecules or "keys" from our leading 2.6 million compound library were physically screened and selected according to their potential efficacy as crop protection solutions. They were then tested to ensure their safety and sustainability profiles.

Today our scientists are able to design entirely new and precise "keys". Using virtual screening we can increase the number of molecules analyzed exponentially. Computational predictive modelling and miniaturized testing - early in-vitro testing on individual cells - then confirms a molecule or "key" will not bind or "fit" to other proteins or "locks" in non-target organisms. Using these same predictive tools, scientists can also ensure other sustainability factors such as degradability of the molecule in the soil, going above and beyond current standards and minimizing all environmental impact.

These data-driven technologies narrow down those molecules with promise of efficacy and eliminate those that do not reach pre-defined safety and sustainability standards far faster and more accurately that previously imaginable. When the perfectly designed key fits the unique lock, our scientists have found a new mode of action.

But not only does this new paradigm in screening and modelling accelerate the discovery of new, effective, safe and sustainable modes of action, it opens whole new horizons as to what is possible; in the past it was laborious to curate, purchase and test thousands of molecules. Today, being able to analyze billions of molecules in a virtual environment using AI allows us to explore new and much larger chemical spaces that ever before.

Producing the Key - Digital Chemistry & AI driven synthesis

But it doesn't stop there, computational tools are then being used to optimize the design of molecules and find synthesis routes, with AI making proposals as to the best way to create the molecule or - to keep with the analogy - to best produce the physical key. This "best way" includes factors such the environmental footprint or cost of synthesis, for example.

CropKey: Unlocking powerful new possibilities for agriculture

CropKey is Bayer's bold demonstration as to how we will unlock the future of sustainable protection. Yet it is more than just an approach to innovation - it is producing tangible results which are expanding our pipeline of solutions.

We now have more than 30 potential new molecular targets under investigation in discovery and have validated more than 10 targets as new modes of action in early research, all arising from this breakthrough innovation approach. We have also announced two entirely new modes of action designed using the CropKey approach that are being brought from conception to reality in record time; a unique broad-spectrum fungicide for use in fruit and vegetables and a new herbicide molecule for broadacre post-emergent weed control are expected to reach the market in the next decade.

CropKey designed solutions hold huge potential, but they become even more powerful when combined with a diverse set of tools. Developed to be used together with Bayer's advanced seed and trait technologies and biological products as part of integrated pest management strategies and applied according to data-driven field insights and with precision technologies, they will meet each farmer's specific needs and circumstances.

Crop protection is also a key component of agricultural systems based on regenerative agricultural practices such as using no- or reduced-till or cover crops to maximize the carbon sequestered from the atmosphere, increasing the soil's natural ability to store this carbon, nutrients and water for improved crop performance.

This systems and tailored solutions approach can increase farmer productivity, further minimize the environmental impact of agriculture using CropKey designed solutions that act and are applied in a highly targeted and precise way, while renewing natural ecosystems.

And as our AI tools that design, develop and deliver new crop protection solutions learn alongside us, every generation of solutions will be smarter than the ones that came before, providing farmers with new keys to grow their crops successfully and sustainably.

View original content here.

View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from Bayer on 3blmedia.com.

Contact Info:

Spokesperson: Bayer

Website: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/bayer

Email: info@3blmedia.com

SOURCE: Bayer

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/778037/Designing-the-Keys-To-Unlock-the-Future-of-Sustainable-Protection
Geoffrey Hiller at Saigoneer:

In 1995, there werent many foreign tourists in the country. It was a year after the United States normalized relations with Hanoi and lifted sanctions. Most of the passengers on the flight to Ho Chi Minh City were Viet kieu, visiting their country for the first time since they left. The tension they felt as they cleared customs was obvious.

I stayed for close to a month and mainly traveled overland by train on the Reunification Express from Saigon to Hanoi. I stopped over for a few days each in Nha Trang, a Nang, Hue and Hanoi, and made overland trips to a Lat and Hoi An. Passing through the rice fields of Central Vietnam as the sun was rising felt like a dream; the landscape out the window had so many variations of the color green.

more here.
NORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / August 29, 2023 / Gen



Gen Blog | Community

By Kimberly Bishop | Corporate Responsibility

Hearing the phrase "summer interns" might bring to mind images of running errands or standing at the printer making copies all day. At Gen, we tell a slightly different story.

This summer, our interns did everything from contribute to our 2023 Social Impact Report to assist in our outreach to policymakers. They attended discussions about DEI in the workplace, oversaw communications for our Giving@Gen philanthropy programs and participated in a volunteer event that brought English enrichment opportunities to students in Latin America.

To understand how they managed to fit all that activity into a single summer, we talked to our interns, Lynnea Bao and Kaki Huebner. We heard what social impact means to them, what it looks like at a Cyber Safety company and what's next for them.

Before we get into some of the fantastic work you both did, how did you decide to pursue these internships? Was social impact something you were interested in?

LB: Yes, I'm studying ESG and Business Analytics at UPenn. This was definitely something I sought out. I'm interested in sustainability both at the corporate and personal level. I thought exploring social impact would be a good way to bring those two things together. My long-term trajectory is to go into Environmental Business Law after undergrad, but I'm currently looking at a bunch of different pathways to get there.

KH: Honestly, I never realized I could find a job that is at an intersection of my personal and academic interests! Choosing to spend a summer with Gen was an easy decision. I realized I could learn more about marketing and focus more specifically on Government Affairs. The resources Gen provides to employees at every level are invaluable. I am taking online Harvard business tutorials, meeting with executives to learn about their careers and participating in revolutionary work that will further establish the new identity of Gen. It's amazing.

Tell us more about your specific roles. Kaki, you mentioned you were the Government Affairs intern. What have you been working on?

KH: I've worked with domestic, UK and EU governing bodies, as well as outside consultants, to promote Gen as a leading force in consumer Cyber Safety. My favorite part of the summer was learning AI regulations in order to help the company navigate legislative changes that are being proposed on AI globally.

Lynnea, how were things on the social impact side?

LB: I've been able to be involved in a lot of different aspects of social impact. My favorite has been working on the 2023 Social Impact Report. I learned so much from just sitting in on the meetings and seeing how the environmental data was sourced and calculated. It was incredible to see the report come to life through each of the different versions.

Last question: Do you do any volunteering in your personal lives?

KH: Yes! Ever since the pandemic started, my sister and I volunteer with the Samaritan House in the Bay Area. We deliver weekly groceries and hot meals to residents who are facing life-threatening illnesses and food insecurity.

LB: My favorite non-profit back home is the Alameda County Food Bank. It's always a joy to work with them. I wanted to also shout out People's Kitchen in Philly. They are an Urban Farming Collective focused on solutions to food insecurity. They do great work in Philadelphia.

Gen has a dynamic, supportive culture with core values that celebrate diversity, promote teamwork and encourage every team member to contribute and grow. Review the open positions on our careers site and join us.

View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from Gen on 3blmedia.com.

Contact Info:

Spokesperson: Gen

Website: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/gen

Email: info@3blmedia.com

SOURCE: Gen

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/778040/The-Next-Generation-of-Social-Impact-Professionals


WASHINGTON (dpa-AFX) - In a significant penalty, American Airlines is slated to pay a hefty fine of $4.1 million imposed by the federal government for numerous incidents involving extended ground delays, during which passengers were confined to planes without the opportunity to disembark. The U.S. Department of Transportation, announcing this on Monday, asserted that this fine marks the most substantial punitive action against an airline since the enforcement of regulations pertaining to prolonged ground delays nearly a decade ago.



The Department of Transportation disclosed that this investigation covered a time span from 2018 to 2021, during which American Airlines held 43 domestic flights on the tarmac for a minimum of three hours, effectively stranding a total of 5,821 passengers without the option to deplane. While there exist exceptions allowing airlines leeway to deviate from these regulations, such as safety and security concerns, the Department of Transportation affirmed that none of these exceptions were relevant in the instances it identified.



Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg stated, 'This latest measure underscores our ongoing commitment to safeguarding the rights of air travelers,' emphasizing a resolute dedication to holding airlines accountable within the parameters of consumer protection laws.



The airline giant, American, is required to remit half of the stipulated fine within the forthcoming 30 days. Moreover, the Department of Transportation acknowledged American's payment of compensation to the inconvenienced passengers, attributing this as grounds for granting the airline a credit of just over $2 million, effectively reducing the financial blow.



American Airlines, in response, expressed its intent to minimize instances of protracted ground delays, noting that the 43 affected flights constituted a mere fraction-less than 1%-of the approximately 7.7 million flights executed by American and American Eagle during the period from 2018 to 2021. The airline further conveyed its commitment to providing substantial compensation to passengers who experienced delays, and underlined its enhanced focus on optimizing operational efficiency to mitigate such occurrences.



Of note, the majority of the identified delays transpired at Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport, where American Airlines maintains a dominant presence. Additional incidents occurred at airports in San Antonio and Houston, typically arising from diversions when flights intended for Dallas-Fort Worth were rerouted. Weather-related challenges, particularly thunderstorms, were cited as contributing factors, which at times hampered the airline's ability to effectively manage gate assignments for passengers to disembark.



Notably, American Airlines expressed reservations concerning the delays incurred at Reagan Washington National Airport during a winter storm in January 2019. However, the airline ultimately assented to the settlement terms outlined in the consent order, signifying a resolution to this regulatory matter.



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Mega-Chance: Der Indien Report Ihre Chancen im groten Wachstumsmarkt: 3 indische Top-Aktien. Die Highlights dieses Spezialreports: 1. Indien als Wachstumsriese, 2. Indiens Wirtschaft boomt!, 3. 3 Top-Performance-Aktien. Jetzt kostenlos downloaden. Hier klicken
0% Interest Microloans up to $10,000

TUCSON, AZ / ACCESSWIRE / August 28, 2023 / Growth Partners Arizona (GPAz), a Tucson-based Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI), announced a $100,000 investment in a local loan fund to support BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color) entrepreneurs in Southern Arizona. The investment in Community Investment Corporation's (CIC's) BIPOC Community Managed Loan Fund will help at least 10 small businesses in Southern Arizona with no-interest microloans up to $10,000. The collaboration between Growth Partners Arizona and CIC marks a crucial step in the two-year old loan fund's progress with GPAz planning to expand the fund's community managed approach to the entire state of Arizona.

The BIPOC Community Managed Loan Fund is an example of character-based lending, an underwriting approach where a borrower's personal qualities, community reputation, and other factors beyond credit scores and collateral are given greater emphasis. A volunteer committee of BIPOC community leaders has all decision-making authority for the loan fund including defining the application process and what underwriting criteria is used to assess applications. In the loan product design phase, the committee identified specific obstacles to capital access for BIPOC communities which included distrust of the traditional financial institutions, overly complicated application processes, and banking's over-reliance on collateral and credit scores to make loan approval determinations. A low-barrier application allows business owners to apply via video or audio as well as in writing. Over the past two years the committee has approved over 50 no-interest microloans to BIPOC entrepreneurs in Southern Arizona totaling almost $400,000 in funding.

The application process utilizes a story-centered approach and limits arduous submission requirements. Unlike traditional loan applications, it is only after being approved for a loan that entrepreneurs are required to provide financial and business documentation. "I think some traditional lenders might be skeptical of our underwriting process," said CIC Executive Director Danny Knee, "but the performance of our loan portfolio shows that we are on to something with our trust-based approach."

The endorsement from Growth Partners Arizona, a prominent advocate for inclusive and sustainable economic growth, underscores the importance of creating accessible financial pathways for BIPOC entrepreneurs. The $100,000 investment not only reinforces the commitment of Growth Partners Arizona to equitable economic development but also emphasizes the power of collaboration in driving systems change.

CEO Andre Whittington from Growth Partners Arizona shared his enthusiasm about the partnership: "We are excited to partner with CIC in expanding the impact and reach of the BIPOC Community Loan Fund to communities across Arizona. Investing in the fund is not only important to the community but resonates with me personally. I have witnessed family members and friends lose their businesses due to limited or nonexistent funding opportunities. Through this partnership we are providing real solutions and establishing inclusive financial pathways for BIPOC business owners to secure the capital needed to scale their businesses."

The additional resources from Growth Partners Arizona will enable the BIPOC Community Managed Loan Fund to expand its outreach and support, nurturing even more BIPOC entrepreneurs in Southern Arizona. The fund's "revolving" loan structure ensures that repayments are reinvested, creating a self-sustaining cycle that empowers entrepreneurs and fuels economic growth within the community.

Knee expressed gratitude for the collaboration, hailing the infusion of $100,000 "as a testament to Growth Partners Arizona's shared commitment to fostering economic prosperity and addressing disparities in our capital access systems." As the BIPOC Community Managed Loan Fund continues to pave the way for a more inclusive and equitable business landscape, this partnership with Growth Partners Arizona reinforces the collective commitment to driving positive change and advancing economic empowerment in Southern Arizona.

For more information about the BIPOC Community Managed Loan Fund and its partnership with Growth Partners Arizona, please visit the program website, here.

About CIC: Community Investment Corporation (CIC) is a financial empowerment nonprofit. We give the members of our community, who are shut out of and left behind in our economy, access to the knowledge and financing they need to pursue new opportunities. CIC unlocks the door to prosperity for all members of our community to meaningfully participate in our powerful but imperfect capitalist economic system and reclaim the American Dream. At CIC, WE KNOW YOUR WORTH. The system may not recognize your value, but we do. Learn more about our loan, homeownership, and school bond compliance programs at CICTucson.org.

About Growth Partners Arizona: Growth Partners Arizona is an Arizona-based Community Development Financial Investments Fund CDFI that provides affordable, responsible financial products to local underserved communities. As a trusted intermediary between the public and private sectors, Growth Partner Arizona aims to achieve economic justice through forward- thinking, collaborative, and inclusive approaches to capital access in Arizona. We are committed to building a more inclusive economy that works for everyone. For more information visit: growthpartnersaz.org.

For more information:

Danny Knee, Executive Director, Community Investment Corporation, marketing@cictucson.org

SOURCE: Growth Partners Arizona

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/777703/Growth-Partners-Arizona-Backs-Partner-Organizations-BIPOC-Community-Managed-Backed-with-100000-Investment
NEW DELHI, Aug 29, 2023 - (ACN Newswire) - Pertamina will continue to develop bioenergy-based fuels, using natural resources such as sugarcane, corn, cassava, and sorghum. "Our energy will eventually be bioenergy-based, as Indonesia has abundant resources," said Nicke Widyawati, President Director of Indonesia's Pertamina."I met with several Indian bioethanol tech representatives in New Dehli as our byproducts can be processed in Indian companies, to follow-up and align our efforts."According to Nicke, the bioenergy development offers many benefits in accelerating the energy transition. "For Pertamina, bioenergy is not only about reducing emissions but also decreasing import dependency and creating job opportunities. When we promote plantations, we increase work for a significant amount of the workforce."Pertamina sees that to enhance energy independence, it must optimize Indonesia's natural resources. "It's truly sustainable when we have resources," she explained.Nicke, as Co-Chair for the B20 Task Force on Energy, Climate Change and Resource Efficiency ensures continuity in agendas for B20 Bali and B20 India. Firstly, new & renewable energy. Secondly, a fair and affordable transition. Thirdly, developing countries with large populations such as India and Indonesia, must provide equal access to clean and affordable energy."We cannot do it alone; no country can do it alone. Hence, global cooperation is vital. Pertamina itself has initiated several endeavors in the context of global cooperation for energy transition," Nicke affirmed.Vice President of Corporate Communication at Pertamina, Fadjar Djoko Santoso, stated that Pertamina is increasingly dedicated to developing energy transition initiatives following global trends."Pertamina is pursuing energy transition to achieve national energy resilience, accessibility, affordability, acceptability, and sustainability. In the short term, energy transition will not disrupt energy resilience; on the other hand, it can achieve carbon emission reduction targets," said Fadjar.Pertamina, as a leading company in the energy transition, is committed to supporting the Net Zero Emission 2060 target by continuously promoting programs that directly impact the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) achievement. All these efforts align with Environmental, Social & Governance (ESG) implementation across all Pertamina's business lines and operations.Media Contact:Fadjar Djoko SantosoVice President Corporate CommunicationPT Pertamina (Persero)M: +62 813-2063-0765E: fadjar.santoso@pertamina.comSource: B20 India 2023B20 IndonesiaPT PertaminaCopyright 2023 ACN Newswire . All rights reserved.

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.
Businessman and Pastor Turned Presidential Candidate Has 50,000 Donors and Message Needed to Get to Second Debate and Win

DALLAS, TX / ACCESSWIRE / August 29, 2023 / Presidential candidate Ryan Binkley has exceeded the number of donors needed to qualify for the second Republican presidential debate and is gaining momentum in the polls as he tells voters why the current crop of candidates won't cut it.

Presidential Candidate Ryan Binkley

Five reasons Republicans can't win unless they throw out the playbook.

"The Republican Party has lost or underperformed in three of the last four general elections, and right now most candidates have not offered any significant policy differences than former President Donald Trump," Binkley said. "It's time to throw out the playbook and not just run the same play with a different leader. People are ready for something new. We haven't had a candidate transcend our party since Ronald Reagan. The Republican Party doesn't have the right message. I have the right message."

Interest in Binkley's vision has risen sharply this month, with donations, poll numbers and media appearances all up. Binkley now has more than 50,000 unique donors who have contributed to his campaign, surpassing the amount required to join the second primary debate on Sept. 27 in California. He also received at least 1% of the votes in a national poll and two separate Iowa polls, and he's sharing his message on national news outlets including CNN, ABC, Fox Business Network and others.

"There are five reasons why Republicans can't win unless we change," Binkley said. "No. 1: We lost our mission financially. No. 2: We quit caring about the poor, the immigrant, the young woman in crisis. No 3: We fell into cancel culture by threatening to defund the FBI, the Department of Justice, the CIA. No. 4: We forgot a strong defense is to stay out of war. No. 5: We gave up on urban America, immigrants and college students."

Binkley intends to lead a bipartisan effort to implement his 7-Year Economic RESCUE Plan to balance the budget and begin paying down the national debt and his Border Security and Dignity Plan that stops the flow of fentanyl while providing a path for immigrants to obtain legal work status.

"If we don't lead with financial wisdom, we don't have much relevance," said Binkley, co-founder and CEO of the Dallas-area mergers and acquisitions firm Generational Group.

"People think Republicans don't care about those who are hurting in society. We have to change this narrative," said Binkley, who co-founded Create Church with his wife, Ellie, to care for all members of the community through teaching God's word, urban missions, food drives, youth ministry and marriage support. "I care. I am leading this charge to connect to all people."

Members of the media are invited to follow Binkley on the campaign trail, view his online press kit, and schedule an interview by contacting his press office at press@Binkley2024.com or 214-494-1792.

Contact Information

Diane Moca

Press Secretary

press@binkley2024.com

214-494-1792

SOURCE: Binkley For President 2024

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/778231/Ryan-Binkley-Says-Republicans-Cant-Win-Running-With-the-Same-Playbook
WEST BAY, CAYMAN ISLANDS / ACCESSWIRE / August 29, 2023 / Lawrence J. Chastang Jr., Managing Director of International Insurance Management Corporation Ltd. Star Insurance Company (Cayman), Limited and Western International Trust Company Limited , along with fellow director BP Dan Martiuk , provide their insights on building a strong, successful company based upon ethics and values.

Both Lawrence Chastang Jr. and BP Dan Martiuk believe that in today's business world, building a company with strong ethics and values is not just a moral obligation, but also a strategic necessity. Companies with a strong ethical foundation are proven to have more engaged employees, loyal clients, and a positive reputation in the global marketplace.

The Directors of Western International Trust Company Limited offer a brief guide below on how to build a company with values and stay true to those principles.

Define Your Core Values

The first step in building a company with strong ethics and values is to define what those values are. These should be the guiding principles that dictate behavior and action within the organization. They could include values such as integrity, respect, innovation, client service, or social responsibility. It is important to ensure that these values are not just words on a page, but are actionable and integrated into every aspect of the business.

Lead by Example

The Directors of Western International Trust Company Limited have found that leadership plays a crucial role in establishing and maintaining a company's ethical standards. Leaders should embody the company's values in their actions and decisions. When leaders demonstrate ethical behavior, it sets the tone for the entire organization. Employees are more likely to act ethically when they see their leaders doing the same.

Develop a Code of Conduct

A code of conduct is a formal document that outlines the company's expectations regarding ethical behavior. It should provide clear guidelines on various issues such as conflicts of interest, discrimination, harassment, and confidentiality. The code of conduct should be communicated to all employees and should be easily accessible.

Provide Training

Training is essential to ensure that all employees understand the company's values and how to apply them in their daily work. Ethics training sessions can help reinforce the company's commitment to ethical behavior. These sessions can also provide a platform for employees to discuss ethical dilemmas and learn how to handle them.

Encourage Open Communication

These directors found that an open and transparent communication culture helped foster an ethical environment within Western International Trust Company Limited , International Insurance Management Corporation Ltd., and Star Insurance Company (Cayman). Employees at any establishment should feel comfortable reporting unethical behavior without fear of retaliation. Establishing a confidential reporting mechanism, such as a hotline or an ombudsman, can encourage employees to speak up more openly about ethical concerns in their organizations.

Recognize and Reward Ethical Behavior

Recognizing and rewarding ethical behavior can reinforce the company's commitment to its values. This could involve acknowledging employees who demonstrate ethical behavior or incorporating ethics into performance evaluations. When employees see that ethical behavior is valued, they are more likely to act ethically.

Regularly Review and Update Policies

The company's ethical policies should not be static. They should be regularly reviewed and updated to reflect changes in the business environment, legal requirements, or societal expectations. Regular reviews can also help identify any gaps or weaknesses in the company's ethical framework.

Conclusion

Lawrence Chastang Jr. and BP Dan Martiuk of Western International Trust Company Limited believe building a company with strong ethics and values requires a comprehensive and ongoing effort. It involves defining clear values, leading by example, developing a code of conduct, providing training, encouraging open communication, recognizing ethical behavior, and regularly reviewing policies. By doing so, companies can create a culture of integrity that benefits not only their employees and clients but also their bottom line.

Please note that this article is for informational purposes only and does not provide immigration, tax or legal advice.

Contact Information:

Andrew Mitchell

Email: media@cambridgeglobalmedia.com

Phone: 404-955-7133

SOURCE: Cambridge Global





View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/778239/Insurance-Trends-Balance-2023--Western-International-Trust-Company-Limited-on-Building-a-Company-with-Strong-Ethics-and-Values
Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - August 29, 2023) - Cinaport Acquisition Corp. III (TSXV: CAC.P) (the "Company"), a capital pool company pursuant to Policy 2.4 of the TSX Venture Exchange (the "TSX-V"), announced that it has accepted the resignation of Patrick Ryan as a director and Chair of the Company's audit committee (the "Audit Committee"). The board of directors of the Company (the "Board") has appointed Don Wright, Chairman of the Company to act as Chair of the Audit Committee. Management and the Board thank Mr. Ryan for his services and contributions to the Company.

For more information, please contact:

Avi Grewal

Chief Executive Officer

Phone: (416) 213-8118 Ext. 210

E-mail: agrewal@cinaport.com

Neither the TSX-V nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX-V) has reviewed or accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this press release.

NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO U.S. NEWSWIRE SERVICES OR FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/178921
HERZLIYA, Israel and CALGARY, AB, Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Innocan Pharma Corporation (CSE: INNO) (FSE: IP4) (OTCQB: INNPF) (the "Company" or "Innocan") is pleased to announce the results of a clinical study regarding the pain-relieving effects and safety of the Company's subcutaneous liposomal CBD (Innocan's LPT platform) for dogs with osteoarthritis. Published in the Frontiers in Veterinary Science Journal, under the research topic "Use of Cannabis Derivatives in Veterinary Medicine" (the "Study"). The Study highlights that CBD plasma levels were detected for six weeks following a single subcutaneous dose of Liposomal-CBD, causing minimal side effects and effectively decreasing pain, leading to improved well-being in affected dogs.

In the study, six dogs with naturally-occurring osteoarthritis, unresponsive to conventional medications, were treated with a single injection of five mg/kg liposomal-CBD (in addition to their routine medications). The subsequent observations spanned six weeks and included measuring CBD plasma concentrations, blood work, collar activity data, and evaluations of well-being and pain. The results were encouraging; dogs exhibited a substantial drop in pain levels and an uptick in activity.

Key findings include:

Prolonged CBD detection in the plasma with a peak concentration of 45.2 (17.8-72.5) ng/mL.

Significant decrease in pain and increase in well-being for several weeks.

Significant increase in activity (objectively measured) by the fifth and sixth weeks.

Minor swelling at the injection site in five out of six dogs, which resolved within a few days without any treatment.

The study underscores the effectiveness and increased bioavailability of LPT-CBD tested as part of a multimodal pain management in dogs with osteoarthritis. With the drug's plasma concentrations detectable for six weeks and high exposure in terms of AUC (area under the concentration-time curve), the research suggests that this liposomal formulation could become a useful addition to pain management strategies for improving the quality of life in dogs with osteoarthritis.

Read the full study on Frontiers in Veterinary Science:

Frontiers | Therapeutic efficacy and pharmacokinetics of liposomal-cannabidiol injection: a pilot clinical study in dogs with naturally-occurring osteoarthritis (frontiersin.org)

Innocan Pharma's CEO, Iris Bincovich, expressed her gratitude to the dedicated team of scientists at their Liposome technology labs in Jerusalem: "Our results, covered by one of the world's leading publications, stand as a testament to the potential of our innovative formulations and drug delivery systems. I'm profoundly proud of our team's groundbreaking work." This is an important milestone since publications in the scientific community provide guided information that impacts future drug development decisions and regulatory approval. Our publication clearly provides positive impact on both efficacy and safety parameters of LPT-CBD.

Innocan's relationship with The Hebrew University

Innocan Pharma Ltd., a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company, has entered into a worldwide exclusive research and license agreement with Yissum Research and Development Company ("Yissum"), the commercial arm of The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, with respect to the design, preparation, characterization and evaluation of hydrogels containing CBD (or other cannabinoids) loaded liposomes. The research and development initiative is led by Professor Chezy Barenholz, head of the Membrane and Liposome Research Department at The Hebrew University, which is the inventor of over fifty-five patent families, two of which underlie Doxil, an FDA-approved drug for breast cancer treatment. This unique liposome platform technology may have a wide range of applications, such as epilepsy, pain relief, inflammation and central nervous system disorders. A patent was filed covering this technology on October 7, 2019.

About Innocan

Innocan Pharma is a pharmaceutical tech company that focuses on the development of several drug delivery platforms containing CBD. Innocan Pharma and Ramot at Tel Aviv University are collaborating on a new, revolutionary exosome-based technology that targets both central nervous system (CNS) indications and the Covid-19 Corona Virus using CBD. CBD-loaded exosomes hold the potential to help in the recovery of infected lung cells. This product, which is expected to be administered by inhalation, will be tested against a variety of lung infections.

Innocan Pharma signed a worldwide exclusive license agreement with Yissum, the commercial arm of The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, to develop a CBD drug delivery platform based on a unique-controlled release liposome to be administered by injection. Innocan Israel plans, together with Professor Barenholz, to test the liposome platform on several potential conditions. Innocan Israel is also working on a dermal product that integrates CBD with other pharmaceutical ingredients as well as the development and sale of CBD-integrated pharmaceuticals, including, but not limited to, topical treatments for the relief of psoriasis symptoms as well as the treatment of muscle pain and rheumatic pain. The founders and officers of Innocan Israel each have commercially successful track records in the pharmaceutical and technology sectors in Israel and globally.

NEITHER THE CANADIAN SECURITIES EXCHANGE NOR ITS REGULATION SERVICES PROVIDER HAVE REVIEWED OR ACCEPT RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS RELEASE.

Caution regarding forward-looking information

Certain information set forth in this news release, including, without limitation, information regarding research and development, collaborations, the filing of potential applications with the FDA and other regulatory authorities, the potential achievement of future regulatory milestones, the potential for treatment of conditions and other therapeutic effects resulting from research activities and/or the Company's products, requisite regulatory approvals and the timing for market entry, is forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable securities laws. By its nature, forward-looking information is subject to numerous risks and uncertainties, some of which are beyond Innocan's control. The forward-looking information contained in this news release is based on certain key expectations and assumptions made by Innocan, including expectations and assumptions concerning the anticipated benefits of the products, satisfaction of regulatory requirements in various jurisdictions and satisfactory completion of requisite production and distribution arrangements.

Forward-looking information is subject to various risks and uncertainties which could cause actual results and experience to differ materially from the anticipated results or expectations expressed in this news release. The key risks and uncertainties include but are not limited to: general global and local (national) economic, market and business conditions; governmental and regulatory requirements and actions by governmental authorities; and relationships with suppliers, manufacturers, customers, business partners and competitors. There are also risks that are inherent in the nature of product distribution, including import / export matters and the failure to obtain any required regulatory and other approvals (or to do so in a timely manner) and availability in each market of product inputs and finished products. The anticipated timeline for entry to markets may change for a number of reasons, including the inability to secure necessary regulatory requirements, or the need for additional time to conclude and/or satisfy the manufacturing and distribution arrangements. As a result of the foregoing, readers should not place undue reliance on the forward-looking information contained in this news release concerning the timing of launch of product distribution. A comprehensive discussion of other risks that impact Innocan can also be found in Innocan's public reports and filings which are available under Innocan's profile at www.sedar.com.

Readers are cautioned that undue reliance should not be placed on forward-looking information as actual results may vary materially from the forward-looking information. Innocan does not undertake to update, correct or revise any forward looking information as a result of any new information, future events or otherwise, except as may be required by applicable law.

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2196814/Innocan_Pharma_Corporation.jpg

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2046271/3968398/Innocan_Pharma_Corporation_Logo.jpg

For further information, please contact:

For Innocan Pharma Corporation:

Iris Bincovich, CEO

+972-54-3012842

info@innocanpharma.com

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/innocan-pharma-announces-clinical-study-results-evidence-of-reduced-osteoarthritis-pain-in-dogs-after-liposomal-cbd-injection-301912747.html
Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - August 29, 2023) - BELGRAVIA HARTFORD CAPITAL INC. (CSE: BLGV) ("Belgravia Hartford", "Belgravia" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that it acquired, 7,358,211 common shares ("Common Shares") of Nexus Gold Corp. to settle an outstanding debt owed to Belgravia by Nexus Gold Corp. totaling $367,910 (the "Settlement Shares") at a deemed price of $0.05 per Common Share.

As a result of the acquisition, Belgravia will own and exercise control and direction over an aggregate of 7,358,211 Shares, representing approximately 13.00% of the issued and outstanding Common Shares of Nexus Gold. The Settlement Shares were acquired for investment purposes. Belgravia believes that the Common Shares of Nexus Gold are undervalued and represent an attractive investment opportunity.

The Company also announces that Pennsylvania Hawthorne LP, a company in which it holds a significant ownership, acquired 7,358,211 Shares of Nexus Gold at a deemed price of $0.05 per Common Share to settle an outstanding debt owned to Pennsylvania Hawthorne by Nexus Gold totaling $367,910. As a result, Pennsylvania Hawthorne will own and exercise control and direction over 7,358,211 Common Shares representing approximately 13.00% of the issued and outstanding Common Shares of Nexus Gold.

Mehdi Azodi, President & CEO, said, "Nexus Gold is focused on further advancing it's gold projects in Africa. The current macro market for gold and investments from BRICS into Africa makes this position appealing going into the final quarter of 2023 and 2024."

The Settlement Shares to be issued to Belgravia and Pennsylvania Hawthorne are subject to TSX Venture Exchange approval, and all Common Shares will be subject to a four month hold period.

An early warning report will be filed with the applicable securities regulatory authority in each jurisdiction where Belgravia Hartford is a reporting issuer and will be available under Belgravia Hartford's profile on SEDAR at www.sedarplus.ca. Belgravia Hartford's head office is located at #3-3185 Via Centrale, Kelowna, BC V1V 2A7. For further information or to obtain copy of the early warning report please call (250) 763-5533.

About Belgravia Hartford

Belgravia Hartford Capital Inc. ("Belgravia" or the "Company") is a publicly traded investment holding company listed on the Canadian Securities Exchange. Belgravia is focused on growing its assets and holdings and increasing its net asset value (NAV). Belgravia invests in a portfolio of private and public companies located in jurisdictions governed by the rule of law. It takes a multi-sector investment approach with emphasis in the resources and commodities sector. Belgravia and its investments are considered high risk holdings and it may expose shareholders to significant volatility and losses.

For more information, please visit www.belgraviahartford.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

Certain information set forth in this news release may contain forward-looking statements that involve substantial known and unknown risks and uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements include statements that use forward-looking terminology such as "may", "will", "expect", "anticipate", "believe", "continue", "potential" or the negative thereof or other variations thereof or comparable terminology. Such forward-looking statements include, without limitation, statements regarding planned investment activities & related returns, the timing for completion of research and development activities, the potential value of royalties, and other statements that are not historical facts. These forward-looking statements are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties, certain of which are beyond the control of the Company, including, but not limited to, changes in market trends, the completion, results and timing of research undertaken by the Company, risks associated with resource assets, the impact of general economic conditions, commodity prices, industry conditions, dependence upon regulatory, environmental, and governmental approvals, and the uncertainty of obtaining additional financing. Readers are cautioned that the assumptions used in the preparation of such information, although considered reasonable at the time of preparation, may prove to be imprecise and, as such, undue reliance should not be placed on forward-looking statements.

For More Information, Please Contact:

Mehdi Azodi, President & CEO

Belgravia Hartford Capital Inc.

(416) 779-3268

mazodi@blgv.ca

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/178919
Over $4.9 million in revenue

in revenue $1.8 million earned in AI and big data solutions

earned in AI and big data solutions Nexalogy reports approximately $1 million in revenue from Government Contracts

in revenue from Government Contracts Over $3 million earned in healthcare revenue

Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - August 29, 2023) - Datametrex AI Limited (TSXV: DM) (FSE: D4G) (OTCQB: DTMXF) (the "Company" or "Datametrex') is pleased to announce the second quarter ("Q2 2023") financial results for the Company. The Company has filed its financial statements and management discussion and analysis on SEDAR+ for the six months ended on June 2023 ("Q2 2023").

Financial Highlights:

The Company reported revenue of $4,912,584, which includes $1,844,054 earned from big data and Artificial Intelligence solutions, approximately $1 million in revenue from reaching certain milestones on its Government of Canada contract, and healthcare revenue of $3,068,530.

At June 30, 2023, the Company had current assets of $9.3 million, including cash of $3.5 million.

The following financial information from the financial results for the three and six months ending on June 2023, and Management Discussion & Analysis ("MD&A") are available for review on SEDAR+.

Please refer to the Q2 2023 financial statements in its entirety, which is available under Datametrex's profile at www.sedarplus.ca.

The following table summarizes revenue, net loss, EBITDA*, and adjusted EBITDA*.

All figures are in Canadian dollars unless otherwise noted.



June 30, 2023 June 30, 2022 Total Revenue $4,912,584 $18,341,444 Net Loss ($4,324,418) $1,829,589 Net Income/(loss) per share - basic (0.008) (0.002) Depreciation and amortization $1,736,442 $1,255,173 EBITDA* ($2,537,763) ($3,265,906) Adjusted EBITDA* ($1,485,425) ($3,265,906)

Normal Course Issuer Bid (NCIB) Share Buyback Program

The Company has purchased a total of 34,198,000 common shares of the Company for an aggregate amount of $3,574,073.36 through the NCIB share buyback program.

Q2 Highlights

In the second quarter, the Company appointed Mr. Charles Park as the new Chief Operating Officer to further strengthen its management team and drive growth across its business units.

The Company achieved a significant milestone by successfully completing its AnalyticsGPT beta program for its new GPT software. As beta testing wrapped up, preparations swiftly commenced for the impending launch of AnalyticsGPT, tailored for businesses.

Additionally, the Company's DM EVS subsidiary announced a five-year partnership agreement with Holiday Inn Vancouver as the exclusive provider of EV charging services for the hotel's West Broadway establishment. Under the terms of the agreement, DM EVS will install chargers on the Holiday Inn's property and will be providing guests and visitors with convenient access to reliable EV charging infrastructure.

Recent Developments and Outlook

Nexalogy Environics Inc. ("Nexalogy") and AnalyticsGPT

Nexalogy is nearing the release of its next-generation discovery platform, AnalyticsGPT. AnalyticsGPT builds upon the decade-long success of Nexalogy's NexaSMART platform.

AnalyticsGPT unifies the ease of use of GPT technology and large language models (LLM) with the state-of-the-art, military-grade analytics of NexaSMART. AnalyticsGPT solves several of the most mentioned problems in data analytics, including finding the correct data for your analysis and discovering insights hidden in your data sets. AnalyticsGPT automates many of these tedious tasks through the use of easy-to-use, plain-language interfaces.

The release of AnalyticsGPT is slated for fall 2023. It aims to cater not only to large enterprises but also to small and medium enterprises (SMEs), diversifying Nexalogy's potential market. Looking forward to the third quarter, Nexalogy will be expanding its marketing and outreach efforts to cover these new markets and continue to support the expansion of Nexalogy into new market segments. Nexalogy will also continue to serve and expand its current clientele and continue to actively participate in both public and private Requests for Proposals (RFPs).

In line with the upcoming launch, AnalyticsGPT will be releasing price plans and a comprehensive launch guide for its new product. The Company will provide these updates in an official news release this fall, 2023.

Furthermore, the Company announced an update on the Canadian Government AI project, announcing that the criteria for completion of the R&D phase of the project have been met and that the project will be transitioning into the next phase, towards commercialization. The advancement to the next phase will allow Nexalogy to apply its initiatives on a larger scale. With the project moving beyond purely R&D and into complete and qualified levels, the current R&D project funding sources will need to be replaced with higher-level and expanded funding sources. The Canadian Government remains committed to the program and intends to continue the project to completion.

The Company received contracts worth approximately $2 million from its existing conglomerate clients for its advanced technology solutions, which is attributed to management's successful implementation of its land-and-expand strategy.

Medi-Call Inc. ("Medi-Call")

Medi-Call reports a 10% increase in subscribers, boasting 477 subscribers to date compared to the last report, which showed a total of 432 subscribers in May, 2023. This figure marks growth from the previous report and a 69% rise from the April 2023 count of 281 subscribers.

Imagine Health Centres ("Imagine Health")

Imagine Health continues to advance its offerings and expand its presence. The inaugural clinic in Edmonton has recently undergone a renovation, complemented by updated hardware upgrades. These modifications aim to enhance the clinic's operational capabilities and better equip the physicians to deliver quality care.

The Company is in the final stages of opening its third clinic in Vancouver, underscoring its commitment to business expansion and growth while extending accessible healthcare services to more Canadians.

Further to the Company's vision for integrated care, Imagine Health will be integrating the Medi-Call platform into its operations, offering patients a unified virtual and physical healthcare experience.

Additionally, the Company announced it is considering a possible spin-out of its healthcare division with a possible distribution of shares to existing Datametrex shareholders. A spin-out of medical assets will create a powerful healthcare entity, consisting of a hybrid model of brick-and-mortar clinics and virtual services, with the goal of being able to offer an integrated healthcare solution under one clinic. The Company will issue an official news release updating the market on the proposed spin-out transaction, including any details that relate to investors and their respective shares.

Datametrex Electric Vehicle Solutions ("DMEVS")

As part of the Company's long-term growth strategy, DM EVS has expanded its operations to Toronto and has secured a location for the installation of its EV charging infrastructure.

DM EVS's anticipated grand opening of its EV charging infrastructure is nearing completion for both Vancouver and Toronto operations. The Company will issue an official news release updating the market on these developments once available.

Following its expansion into Toronto, Ontario, DM EVS intends to expand its operations across Canada on a province-by-province basis, opening operations in new geographies as soon as it is operationally feasible.

In addition to pursuing large fleet contracts, DM EVS is expanding its scope and believes there is significant revenue potential within the small and medium enterprises (SMEs) market and will be targeting these types of businesses for electric charging solutions moving into the third quarter.

The Company would like to note that the launch of its AnalyticsGPT and EV charging operations are strategies to replace its COVID-19 revenue and increase profitability.

"We stand at an exciting juncture as a company, with numerous long-term growth prospects set to be completed. The imminent launch of our third Imagine Health Clinic underscores our commitment to extending healthcare services to more Canadians, ensuring their well-being remains a top priority, while also expanding business lines. Our impending AnalyticsGPT launch, coupled with the grand opening of our EV charging infrastructure, represents significant milestones that will propel us towards even greater achievements. These developments collectively chart a course for our Company's success," said Marshall Gunter, CEO of the Company.

"The launch of AnalyticsGPT and the commencement of our EV charging operations serve as revenue strategies aimed at substituting the COVID-19-generated revenue and enhancing our overall profitability. With these initiatives nearing their final stages, the Company is eagerly anticipating the opportunity to unveil these innovative ventures to the market. These endeavors mark significant steps forward in our pursuit of sustainable growth and expansion," said Charles Park, COO of the Company.

About Datametrex

Datametrex AI Limited is a technology-focused company with verticals in leading industries, including artificial intelligence, machine learning, telehealth, healthcare, and electric vehicles. Datametrex's mission is to provide tools and solutions that support companies in optimizing and fulfilling their operational goals, with predictive and preventive technologies. By collaborating with businesses to establish innovative protocols using artificial intelligence and healthcare solutions, the Company delivers forward-thinking answers that enhance the performance and the bottom line for enterprises and provide customers efficient solutions in the technology and healthcare sectors.

Datametrex prides itself on its forward-thinking approach and the ability to develop progressive solutions that address the most pressing challenges facing businesses today. Datametrex is committed to supporting clients in achieving their goals and helping them stay ahead of the curve in an ever-changing business landscape.

For additional information on Datametrex and other corporate information, please visit the Company's website at www.datametrex.com.

To learn more about how our AI is used in Cyber Security, Telehealth, and EV, please visit https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ApFk3sWAXtg.

For further information:

Investor Relations & Communications

Priya Monique Atwal, Director of Communications

Email: investors@datametrex.com

Tel: 416-901-5611 x 204

Marshall Gunter, CEO

Email: mgunter@datametrex.com

Tel: 514-295-2300

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Forward-Looking Statements

All statements included in this press release that address activities, events, or developments that the Company expects, believes, or anticipates will or may occur in the future are forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements involve numerous assumptions made by the Company based on its experience, perception of historical trends, current conditions, expected future developments, and other factors it believes are appropriate in the circumstances. In addition, these statements involve substantial known and unknown risks and uncertainties that contribute to the possibility that the predictions, forecasts, projections, and other forward-looking statements will prove inaccurate, certain of which are beyond the Company's control. Except as required by law, the Company does not undertake to revise or update these forward-looking statements after the date hereof or revise them to reflect the occurrence of future unanticipated events.

###

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/178932
Moeen Farrokhi at Literary Hub:

I have never told this story in its entirety to anyone: not to my therapist, not to my closest friends, and not even to my family. Ive divulged bits and pieces of it to different people. When my friends back home in Iran asked me why I was leaving, I made up a thousand different reasons. When my friends in Istanbul asked me what happened and why I came, I said that a part of me had died, that my ambition, courage, and hope for the future had dried up. But I didnt explain why. I couldnt connect the single moments into a coherent narrative.

More here.
WASHINGTON (dpa-AFX) - Teledyne Technologies Incorporated (TDY) on Tuesday announced that its subsidiary Teledyne FLIR Defense, has signed a $31 million contract with Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace, Norway, to provide its Cerberus XL mobile counter-unmanned aerial system (UAS) as part of a total C-UAS solution for Ukraine's military. Under the agreement, Cerberus XL will rapidly locate and track UAS targets with its advanced thermal/visual imaging system and highly sensitive radar sensors, following which, Kongsberg will feed information from Cerberus into its remote weapons station to disable and defeat the threat. The agreement also includes delivery of the surveillance platforms as well as software, spares, support, and training. 'Teledyne FLIR is proud to partner with Kongsberg in delivering our next-generation Cerberus XL as part of a complete and robust system to protect Ukraine's warfighters. We have a long history of providing state-of-the-art imaging solutions to Kongsberg, and this important joint effort only strengthens our relationship,' said Dr. JihFen Lei, executive VP and general manager of Teledyne FLIR Defense. 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.
SEATTLE (dpa-AFX) - Amazon's CEO, Andy Jassy, seems to have reached a turning point in dealing with employees resistant to returning to the office, signaling a broader issue faced by several major American corporations. Businesses like Meta, Disney, and Starbucks are grappling with the challenge of balancing post-pandemic flexibility while reinstating office norms. Amazon's approach, however, has sparked controversy. Jassy's patience appears to have worn thin as he addressed the matter in a recent 'fishbowl' meeting, an Amazon term for a fireside chat. In a recording obtained by Insider, Jassy implied that those unwilling to return to the office might find themselves off the payroll, stating, 'It's past the time to disagree and commit. And if you can't disagree and commit, I also understand that, but it's probably not going to work out for you at Amazon.' This shift in tone is notable given Jassy's earlier messaging. In 2022, he assured employees that office return wasn't mandatory. But by early 2023, the majority of the workweek was expected to be spent in the office, with Jassy reinforcing a growing sentiment: resistance could have consequences. In an internal report, Amazon employees not complying with the return faced a 'voluntary resignation,' unless specially permitted by the leadership. Jassy revealed conversations with numerous CEOs, a majority of whom favored a physical return to the office. This contrasts with the evolving perspectives of some corporate figures. Meta's Mark Zuckerberg once lauded remote work's benefits, and Zoom previously embodied remote work success. In a surprising shift, Zoom's leadership asked employees to return two days a week, contradicting the wishes of many American workers. A Bankrate survey of 2,367 people indicated 89% sought flexible work arrangements. Despite employee pushback and a petition signed by 30,000 staff members, Jassy remains steadfast. His decision raises questions about the future of work and the evolving dynamics between company expectations and employee preferences. 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.
Turnium announces full repayment of term loan to FirePower Capital, engagement of digital communications service provider Blue Summit Ventures and listing approval on Frankfurt Stock Exchange under the symbol "E48"

Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - August 29, 2023) - Turnium Technology Group Inc. (TSXV: TTGI) (FSE: E48) ("Turnium" or "the Company"), an industry leader in cloud-native software-defined wide area networking solutions (SD-WAN), is pleased to announce its financial results for Fiscal Q3 2023. All financial information is provided in Canadian dollars unless otherwise indicated.

The Consolidated Financial Statements and Management Discussion and Analysis ("MD&A") for the second quarter ended June 30, 2023, are available on the Company's SEDAR profile at www.sedarplus.ca.

Derek Spratt, CEO of Turnium commented, "In the third quarter of fiscal 2023, the Turnium team continued its focus on rightsizing the corporate balance sheet, repaying the approximate $2 million Term Loan in full to Firepower Capital and recapitalizing the business to execute on its growth strategy. We are very excited about Turniums future and remain focused in growing the customer base, introducing new products and expanding our geographic sales footprint, and managing costs in a fiscally responsible manner. I am happy to report that the many improvements to our business have translated to a record third quarter."

Fiscal Third Quarter 2023 Highlights:

Revenue in the third quarter increased to $1.48 million, compared to $1.12 million in the third quarter of 2022;

in the third quarter increased to $1.48 million, compared to $1.12 million in the third quarter of 2022; Gross Margin in the third quarter was $0.917 million, compared to $0.831 million in the third quarter of 2022;

in the third quarter was $0.917 million, compared to $0.831 million in the third quarter of 2022; Total Expenses in the third quarter decreased to $1.5 million, compared to $2.2 million in the third quarter of 2022;

in the third quarter decreased to $1.5 million, compared to $2.2 million in the third quarter of 2022; Net Loss in the third quarter decreased to ($0.75) million, compared to ($3.3) million in the third quarter of 2022;

in the third quarter decreased to ($0.75) million, compared to ($3.3) million in the third quarter of 2022; Number of Common Shares Outstanding (basic) at the end of the third quarter 2023 was 68,935,614.

Fiscal Quarter Financial Highlights:

The Company's key financial results for the three months ended June 30, 2023, are as follows:

Canadian Dollars For the three

months ended

June 30, 2023 For the three

months ended

March 31, 2023 For the three

months ended

December 31, 2022 For the three

months ended

September 30, 2022 Total revenue 1,476,342 1,185,056 1,293,613 1,370,438 Gross margin 916,845 886,540 926,400 1,038,438 Total Expenses 1,512,661 2,089,325 1,593,229 2,586,146 Net comprehensive

income (loss) (745,223) (1,201,843) (398,953) (1,315,884)

Weighted average number

of common shares

outstanding 68,935,614 68,865,009 68,865,009 61,613,713 Basic and diluted loss per

common share (0.01) (0.02) (0.01) (0.02)

Special Notes:

It is anticipated that revenues and expenses may vary, perhaps materially, from quarter to quarter due to several factors, including changes in product mix, costs related to planned increase in market share, global expansion costs and ongoing corporate development initiatives. Although revenues may fluctuate from quarter to quarter, and such fluctuations may be material, management expects that revenues will increase year over year.

There are no known trends or seasonal impacts on the Company's business although seasonal trends may develop as the Company grows.

Additional Fiscal Third Quarter 2023 Highlights:

May 25, 2023: Turnium and Damen IT Deliver a Disruptive Starlink Solution for Point-to-Point Communications across the Netherlands and Germany

Damen IT deploys Turnium to aggregate and bond multiple Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite links from Starlink with multiple LTE connections to deliver faster communications and operational continuity for businesses, field operations, and organizations operating in off-net, remote areas. Read Full Release

May 18, 2023: Turnium Technology Group Inc. Signs Amended Loan Agreement with FirePower Capital

Turnium announces it has entered into a fourth amending agreement with affiliates of FirePower Capital ("FirePower") to extend the maturity date of Turnium's FirePower Term Loan from March 31, 2023 to July 31, 2023. Read Full Release

May 17, 2023: Turnium Announces Closing of First Tranche of Unsecured Convertible Note Offering

Turnium closes first tranche of non-brokered private placement of unsecured convertible notes for aggregate gross proceeds of up to CAD$1,000,000 (the "Offering"). The first tranche closing of the Offering was comprised of the issuance of unsecured convertible notes in the aggregate principal amount of $276,500 (the "First Tranche Closing"). Read Full Release

May 5, 2023: Turnium Extends Exclusivity Period of Non-Binding Letter of Intent with ActivePort

Turnium announces that the counterparty to the Potential Transaction is ActivePort Group Ltd. (ASX: ATV), an Australian software company ("ActivePort"). The parties have extended the exclusivity period for negotiation of definitive documents through to May 31, 2023. Read Full Release

May 4, 2023: Turnium and Metro Lightspeed Announce New Partnership Agreement - Introducing Next Generation Internet Connectivity Solutions to the Malaysian Market and Asia Pacific Region

Metro Lightspeed SDN BHD, an existing Turnium Channel Partner signs a new 60-month licensing agreement, enhancing wireless, POS and business connectivity solutions for the Malaysian and Asia Pacific Market. Read Full Release

April 11, 2023: Turnium and Comms365 Announce Preferred Partnership Agreement - Introducing Next Generation Internet Connectivity Solutions to the United Kingdom Market

Comms365 Limited signs 24-month Preferred Partner licensing agreement with Turnium valued at over $500,000, enhancing managed service delivery, IoT applications and reliable connectivity for U.K. businesses. Read Full Release

April 3, 2023: Turnium Technology Group Creates Special Committee to Review Non-Binding LOI to Acquire the Shares of the Company

Turnium enters into a non-binding letter of intent (the "Non-Binding LOI") with respect to a potential share purchase transaction (the "Potential Transaction") with one of its publicly listed strategic partners. Final structure and terms of the Potential Transaction not yet been finalized. Read Full Release

Subsequent Highlights to the Fiscal Third Quarter:

August 22, 2023: Turnium Technology Group, Inc. Announces Closing of Second Tranche Non-Brokered LIFE Offering For Gross Proceeds of C$479,000

Turnium closes its Second Tranche non-brokered private placement offering (the "Offering") of 4,790,000 units of the Company (each, a "Unit") at a price of C$0.10 per Unit (the "Issue Price") for gross proceeds of C$479,000. The Offering was completed pursuant to the Listed Issuer Financing Exemption. Read Full Release

August 9, 2023: Bahrain's Gulf Wireless City Implements Turnium Software to Further Monetize AI, Smart Building Technology, Security, Home Automation, and Wireless Solutions.

Turnium announces that Gulf Wireless City has implemented Turnium's SD-WAN software technology to deliver business connectivity, high quality voice calls over internet, and reliable and secure multi-carrier managed connections in Bahrain. Read Full Release

August 3, 2023: Turnium Technology Group, Inc. Announces Closing of Brokered and Non-Brokered LIFE Offering For Gross Proceeds of C$3 Million

Turnium closes its brokered and non-brokered private placement offering (the "Offering") of 30,210,000 units of the Company (each, a "Unit") at a price of C$0.10 per Unit (the "Issue Price") for gross proceeds of C$3,021,000. The Offering was completed pursuant to the Listed Issuer Financing Exemption. Read Full Release

July 31, 2023: Turnium Technology Group, Inc. Provides Update Regarding Previously Announced Brokered LIFE Offering For Up to C$3.5 Million

Turnium files a Second Amended Offering Document with respect to its commercially reasonable efforts private placement basis offering (the "Offering") of units of the Company (each, a "Unit") under the Listed Issuer Financing Exemption. Under the final terms of the Offering, the Units will be issued at a price of C$0.10 per Unit (the "Issue Price") for gross proceeds of a minimum of C$3,000,000 and a maximum of C$3,500,000. Read Full Release

Engagement of Digital Communications Service Provider

Turnium also announces that it has entered into an agreement with Blue Summit Ventures, an arm's-length party to the company, to provide marketing services to enhance its social media and digital marketing functions.

Blue Summit will oversee the Company's social media campaigns, harnessing the power of various platforms to raise awareness of Turnium, engage with stakeholders, and communicate the Company's ongoing advancements in the SD-WAN market. Blue Summit has agreed to provide digital communications services to the company in exchange for an aggregate amount of $175,000 plus applicable taxes. The services will include continuing social media consultation regarding engagement and enhancement, social sentiment reporting, social engagement reporting, and corporate video dissemination.

The initial term of the Blue Summit agreement is for a period of six months. As of the date hereof, to the Company's knowledge, Blue Summit (including its directors and officers) do not own any securities of the Company.

Frankfurt Stock Exchange Listing

The Company announces that it has been accepted for listing on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange ('FSE"), under the symbol "E48". The FSE is one of the world's leading international stock exchanges by revenue, profitability, and market capitalization and is the largest of Germany's stock exchanges.

About Turnium Technology Group Inc.

Turnium Technology Group Inc. delivers its SD-WAN solution as a white label, containerized, disaggregated software platform that OEM channel partners host, manage, brand, and price. Turnium is also available to Resellers as a Turnium-branded managed service. Turnium SD-WAN solutions is sold through a channel partner program designed for Communications Service Providers, Internet and Managed Service Providers, System Integrators, and Value-Added Resellers.

For more information, contact sales@ttgi.io, visit www.ttgi.io or follow us on Twitter @turnium.

About SD-WAN

SD-WAN is revolutionizing the networking and telecommunications industry by abstracting secure, high-speed networking and network control from underlying physical circuits. SD-WAN frees enterprises, small and medium businesses, cloud and managed services providers from the business and cost constraints imposed by traditional telecommunications companies.

# # #

Turnium Contact:

Investor Relations: Bill Mitoulas, Email: investor.relations@ttgi.io, Telephone: +1 416-479-9547

Media inquiries: please email media@ttgi.io.

Sales inquiries: please email sales@ttgi.io

www.ttgi.io, www.turnium.com

CAUTIONARY NOTES

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSXV) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Forward-Looking Information

This press release contains "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. Generally, forward-looking information can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "plans", "expects" or "does not expect", "is expected", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates" or "does not anticipate", or "believes", or variations of such words and phrases or state that certain acts, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will be taken", "occur" or "be achieved". Forward-looking information is subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements of the Company, as the case may be, to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. Some of these risks are described under the "Caution on Forward-Looking Information" section and "Risk Factors" section of the MD&A. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that such information will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. Actual results and developments may differ materially from those contemplated by these statements. The Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking information, except in accordance with applicable securities laws.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/178952
ControlRooms.ai, an Austin, TX-based AI-assisted troubleshooting company, raised $10M in Series A funding.

The round was led by Origin Ventures, with participation from Amity Ventures, Tokio Marine Future Fund, S3 Ventures, GTM Fund, Alpha Square Group, and FJ Labs among others.

The company intends to use the funds to accelerate its product development and go-to-market in the chemical, energy, and materials segments of heavy industry.

Led by CEO Monte Zweben, and President Omar A. Talib, ControlRooms is an AI Troubleshooting company whose platform allows manufacturers to enhance productivity, minimize downtime, and optimize resource allocation. ControlRooms.ai does not rely on pre-programmed, static rules to identify operational problems. Instead, its AI dynamically learns plant behavior on its own and surfaces issues before humans or alarms can detect them.

ControlRooms.ai is live at industry leaders such as OCI Global and Ardagh Group.

FinSMEs

29/08/2023
Jeton Wallet is excited to announce a significant extension of its ongoing collaboration with West Ham United, solidifying its position as the Official e-Wallet Partner for the club.

Jeton has enjoyed a fruitful alliance with West Ham since 2020, amplifying the reach of its e-Wallet services, trusted by merchants and consumers across 100+ countries. This advanced e-Wallet empowers users to securely manage multiple currencies, facilitating swift and secure transactions.

A trailblazer in its industry, Jeton recently earned accolades, including the esteemed Online Payment Service Provider of the Year award at the prestigious Sigma Eurasia ceremony held in March 2023. This recognition underscores Jetons eminence among leading companies in the gaming and technology sectors.

In the spirit of this enduring partnership, Jetons branding will maintain a prominent presence through West Ham Uniteds LED pitch-side perimeter advertising system, complemented by diverse digital and matchday privileges. This collaboration exemplifies the unwavering dedication of both Jeton and West Ham United to continually elevate their offerings, delivering unparalleled experiences to their global audience.

Nathan Thompson, Chief Commercial Officer at West Ham United, shared his thoughts:

The extension of our partnership with Jeton brings us immense satisfaction. Since our collaborations inception in 2020, our alliance has flourished. Together, we aspire to bring about transformative changes as we drive innovation across the digital landscape.

The necessity for highly secure and dependable digital payment solutions has never been more pronounced for both consumers and enterprises. With Jeton at the vanguard of this sector, we take pride in endorsing their pursuit of providing a premier e-Wallet experience for all.

Expressing his sentiments, Mr. Saaly Temirkanov, Director of Jeton, remarked: Our renewed partnership with West Ham United fills us with enthusiasm. The global demand for our products is experiencing remarkable growth, and this collaboration has played an instrumental role in fueling our expansion.

He continued, Our award-winning apps allure lies in its robust security features and user-friendly interface. Thanks to our partnership with West Ham United, we have a platform to share our narrative. We eagerly anticipate another thrilling season of collaboration.

To learn more about Jeton, visit jeton.com

__

LA ORANGE GE LLC | Jeton is a trading name of LA Orange GE LLC. LA Orange GE LLC holds its license No. 0110/481 by the Hualing Kutaisi Free Industrial Zone in Georgia; LA Orange GE LLC Company number: # 406318916.

Jeton is a trading name of LA Orange Limited. LA Orange Limited is authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority under the Electronic Money Regulations 2011 for distributing or redeeming electronic money (e-money) and providing certain payment services on behalf of an e-money institution, with FCA registration number 902088. LA Orange Limited is registered in England and Wales, Company Number 11535714, with its registered office address at The Shard Floor 24/25, 32 London Bridge Street, London, SE1 9SG, United Kingdom. LA Orange Limited is registeredi with The United Kingdom Information Commissioners Office with ICO registration number ZA798368.
Jitty, a London, UK-based provider of an AI-powered property search engine, raised $2m in pre-seed funding.

The round was led by Gradient Ventures, Googles AI fund, with participation from True., Tiny Supercomputer Investment Company, Angel Invest, Ventures Together, Mozza Angels, Unwritten Capital, Macks Managed Investments, and Sequoia Capital and Atomico scout programs, as well some angels.

The company is using the funds to continue to expand its development efforts.

Co-founded by chief executive Graham Paterson, James Storer and Daniel Cooper, Jitty is building an AI-based property search engine that shows users every thing about every home by reading floor plans and understanding photos and descriptions of places.

FinSMEs

29/03/2023
Reveal, a Chicago, IL-based provider of an AI-powered eDiscovery platform, acquired both Logikcull and IPRO, two other eDiscovery players.

Together, the three companies offer an eDiscovery platform that addresses matters of all sizes and for all legal teams, from solo legal practitioners to the largest enterprise. The transactions, valued at more than $1 billion, were funded by Reveals majority shareholder and software investment firm, K1 Investment Management.

The combination integrates Logikcull and IPROs capabilities with Reveals proven AI prowess to create a hub of eDiscovery tools for matters of any size and scope, from self-service offerings for smaller cases to enterprise-grade solutions for complex legal challenges.

Logikcull provides self-service functionality that enables users to handle simpler cases in-house, while Reveals scalable platform helps tackle the most complex litigation matters. The combined suite covers every stage of the eDiscovery process, from data collection and processing to review and analysis, so legal experts can increase efficiency, reduce costs, and focus on higher-value tasks that better serve their clients. The acquisition of IPRO enables Reveal to introduce its AI technology to a new client base across the globe.

The company will now have employees stationed in more than two dozen countries, serving a customer base of over 4,000 clients.

Led by Wendell Jisa, Founder & CEO, Reveal provides document review technology, underpinned by processing, visual analytics, and artificial intelligence, all seamlessly integrated into a single platform for eDiscovery and investigations. The software combines technology and human guidance to transform structured and unstructured data into actionable insight. Am Law 100 firms, Fortune 500 corporations, legal service providers, government agencies and financial institutions in more than 20 countries across five continents work collaboratively with Reveal to uncover insights and solve complex legal challenges with advanced AI.

FinSMEs

29/08/2023
Travelshift, a Reykjavik, Iceland-based online travel agency (OTA), raised $10M in funding.

The round, which brought the total amount to $30M, saw participation from existing shareholders.

The company intends to use the funds to accelerate its growth initiatives.

Led by David Stewart, CEO, Travelshift is an online travel agency (OTA) that specializes in technology-driven travel solutions. The latest funding round follows the companys recent launch of Guide to Europe, a travel platform that solves the Connected Trip for the European leisure travel market. This service, which is empowered by AI, allows travelers to book everything they need in one checkout and manage their entire journey in one app. It also gives travelers access to itineraries that have been optimized with AI.

FinSMEs

29/08/2023
New Delhi (India): Parul University, a prestigious institution in Gujarat, India, offers an enriching BBA program that caters to aspiring business administration students. The three-year integrated graduate program aims to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of various business functions, from accounting and economics to finance, marketing, management, and organizational behavior.

At Parul University, the BBA program offers specialized areas of study, including BBA Agri-Business Management, BBA Banking and Financial Services, BBA Business Analytics, BBA Digital Marketing and Sales Management, BBA Family Managed Business Management, BBA Healthcare Management, BBA Human Resource Management, and BBA in Financial Management.

Dr. Parul Patel, Vice President of Parul University, expressed, Our vision for the BBA program, emphasizing versatility, entrepreneurial opportunities, and networking. We commit to developing well-trained leaders capable of holding key positions in business and industry, with a focus on emerging areas of specialization and institution-building through a diverse range of management specializations.

In todays dynamic global landscape, the demand and value of a Business Administration degree have skyrocketed, thanks to the ever-evolving forces of globalization. As businesses expand internationally and operate on a global scale, a global perspective in business has become essential. Collaborating with partners, suppliers, and customers from different countries has become the norm, and professionals with the ability to strategize for global expansion are highly sought after.

The program places a strong emphasis on practical learning experiences, complementing theoretical knowledge with case studies, group projects, internships, and other experiential activities. The faculty is dedicated to empowering students with essential skills and ethical principles required to excel in the business world. The curriculum is designed to cultivate highly skilled management professionals while encouraging entrepreneurship and innovative problem-solving.

Upon graduation, BBA students from Parul University have a vast array of career opportunities across industries such as IT, industrial, law, education, aircraft, retail, and consumer packaged goods. Their multitasking abilities and understanding of business nuances make them valuable assets in these fields.

Furthermore, many students choose to pursue postgraduate degrees in Business Administration or Business Management to enhance their career prospects further. Lucrative job roles, such as Human Resource Manager, Finance Manager, Business Consultant, and Marketing Manager, await BBA graduates in esteemed financial institutions, marketing organizations, business consultancies, and educational institutions, offering attractive compensation packages.

Parul Universitys credibility is reinforced by its NAAC A++ accreditation and global memberships in esteemed bodies like the Association of Commonwealth Universities. The 125-acre eco-friendly campus attracts a diverse student population of over 43,000 from across India and 2,500 international students from 68 countries, creating a truly culturally global destination.

Through strategic industry partnerships, the faculty provides students with valuable hands-on training under the guidance of experts from prominent business sectors, resulting in an impressive track record of 17,000+ placements in 1,600+ companies with milestone packages of 29+ LPA.

To know more, visit Parul University

This is a Partnered Post.
Though Gulshan Devaiah was not much eager to play a negative role as Char Cut Atmaram in Netflixs Guns & Gulaabs, he agreed to it because it was a Raj & DK film. From Sanjay Dutts mullet cut to Mithun Chkrabortys dressing, he took inspiration from the movies of the 80s and 90s for his role. But the first inspiration for him was actor Javier Bardem in No Country for Old Men.

Edited excerpts from the interview:

What made you agree for the role in Guns & Gulaabs?

Its very difficult to say no to Raj & DK when he comes with something to you because you know it is going to be different and something out of the box. I was a bit skeptical because I had stopped playing the part of a villain because at that time I was also shooting for Dahaad. I thought it wouldnt be the appropriate time to play the bad guy.

But the Raj and DK insisted that I should have a look at the character with an open mind and to read the script. They sent me all the Atmaram scripts of Guns & Gulaabs. I thought about it for some time and I really wanted to connect with it. I started to feel that if I dont do this, I felt that I might feel bad later because I had let something good go.

What was the preparation like along with the look and the haircut?

The first germ inside me was No Country for Old Men and my favourite character was Anton Chigurh played by actor, Javier Bardem. He is the bad guy and one of the most devastatingly chilling villain of all time. So, I thought I will use this as an inspiration for Atmaram. But it developed into something very different from Anton Chigurh.

Growing up in the early nineties, wrestling and WWF, all of those things were very big for us. And of course the hairstyle was inspired by Sanjay Dutt. That was a reference that came from Raj and DKs side. But I had ideas about the teeth, eyes, but they wanted a different colour and I wanted lighter eyes. The tattoo ideas were theirs and the clothes references were from Mithun Chakrabortys look from his earlier films in the eighties. A lot of the work went behind it and I allowed my influences to take over my imagination and build the character.

What are your views on cinema changing?

Its a great time for cinema and there is more variety. Cinema is a part of popular culture and we have to keep changing and evolving with time. It is artistic and also for mass consumption and it is absolutely natural for it to change. And true to its time, there are so many varieties. But during my growing up years in the eighties and nineties, we didnt have so many choices. And that applied for food too. Today we can choose things which is why there will not be unanimous views about anything and so reviews will always be mixed. Like some people will like a certain show, some will find it bad like in the case of Guns & Gulaabs. Now you can pick and choose what you want to do and what sort of stories you want to be attached with.

On Duranga 2, how has your character evolved, now that you have just finished shooting?

The story is going to progress. Now we have Amit Sadh also in Duranga 2. My relationship with Drashti in the show is also under a lot of stress. My character was shown to be someone who is stoic, but now it is different. It was great to reunite with Rohan Sippy after 13 years.
The caste census in Bihar is kicking up a storm. While the ruling Grand Alliance, comprising the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), Janata Dal-United (JD-U) and the Congress in Bihar, is supporting the activity and wants a thorough caste census, the BJP at the state level seems reluctant to express either support or resistance to it.

However, the BJP at the Centre, as per the affidavit filed in the Supreme Court, seems against the act, submitting an affidavit which first read: No other body under the Constitution or otherwise is entitled to conduct the exercise of either census or any action akin to census.

It was later modified to  Census is a statutory process governed by the Census Act of 1948, which was enacted in the exercise of the powers under Entry 69 of List I of the Constitutions Seventh Schedule and that the said Act empowers only the Central Government to conduct the Census.

But what is the row over it? Whats with the change in the affidavit? What does the change in the affidavit mean? Heres what we know so far.

What is the Bihar caste census all about?

In January, the Nitish Kumar-led government began conducting a survey of households to collect and publish data on caste with the aim of ensuring all-round development of all sections of the State.

The survey was to cover an estimated population of 12.70 crores in an estimated 2.58 crore households in 38 districts, which have 534 blocks and 261 urban local bodies.

Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has extended his support to the caste survey, saying it would be beneficial for all sections of society. Earlier he had said, The caste-based survey in the state is beneficial for all. It will enable the government to work for the development of various sections of society, including those who are deprived. This will help us to know which areas require development.

The survey was halted in May after the Patna High Court had stayed it on the grounds that it violated a citizens fundamental right to privacy and that the state had no power to carry out such a survey.

However, three months later, the court cleared the survey. In a 101-page order, the court had then said: We find the action of the State to be perfectly valid, initiated with due competence, with the legitimate aim of providing Development with Justice; as proclaimed in the address to both Houses and the actual survey to have neither exercised nor contemplated any coercion to divulge the details and having passed the test of proportionality, thus not having violated the rights of privacy of the individual especially since it is in furtherance of a compelling public interest which in effect is the legitimate State interest.

How did Supreme Court figure in matter?

Shortly after the High Court gave its go-ahead in the matter, a plea was filed in the Supreme Court questioning the validity of the Patna High Courts 1 August order, approving the Bihar governments decision to conduct a caste survey in the state, saying the entire exercise is without authority and legislative competence and reeks of mala fide.

Hearing the matter in the court, the Centre on Monday (28 August) said that the survey was a statutory process and is governed by the Census Act, 1948. The Wire also reported that Solicitor General Tushar Mehta was also clear in conveying that the Centre wasnt obstructing the Bihar counting activity, when he told the apex court, The Centre was neither opposing nor supporting the litigation.

Interestingly, earlier the Centre in its affidavit had said that no other body is entitled to conduct the exercise of either Census or any action akin to it,  which has now been dropped.

The timing of the change in the affidavit is suspect, as it came shortly after Bihar deputy chief minister Tejashwi Yadav had hit out at the Centre for its filing. He had then said: They have no knowledge. They only know how to lie and suppress the truth. They have opposed it even in the affidavit. It has been made clear that the BJP does not want it (caste census) and is opposing it. If they support it, then they should conduct it (caste census) across the country.

Where do the parties stand on the caste survey?

The Grand Alliance has been firmly supporting the caste survey in Bihar, with the RJD and JD(U) vocally pushing for the exercise. RJD patriarch Lalu Prasad Yadav has pushed for the caste survey and has alleged that the Centre was looking at the caste survey in Bihar with hatred.

Prasad said the caste survey would result in overall holistic development of people from various castes. It is necessary for the government to know the socio-economic status of various castes. How can policies be made without getting acquainted with the economic status and caste of a person?

He further alleged that the BJP-led Centre does not want suppressed sections of the society to prosper.

The BJP, on the other hand, has refuted these claims, with former Deputy Chief Minister Sushil Modi saying that his party supports caste census but according to the Census Act, only the Centre can conduct a caste survey.

Why Nitish Kumar wants a caste survey?

While some believe that a caste survey may further fragment society, Nitish Kumar has extended his complete support to the exercise. He has stated time and again that a caste survey would help in identifying sections that remain off the governments social welfare radar or have benefitted less. He has maintained that a caste census would help the state identify those at the bottom of the social and economic ladder and pull them up using proactive measures.

Many sociologists also share the same belief that a caste survey is important in battling caste discrimination in India. They argue that the phrase caste has been historically associated with only lower castes such as the SCs and the OBCs while the upper castes have always been perceived as seemingly casteless. Accordingly, caste surveys help in mapping out socio-economic deprivations, fundamental in the creation of an egalitarian society.

However, the exercise has political implications too. By carrying out the exercise, he will be able to reach out to his core voters and also extend his social umbrella. He will be able to claim credit for the exercise and amass greater support from the marginalised among OBCs and Scheduled castes, who make up 45 per cent of Bihars voters.

With inputs from agencies
Indian-American Vivek Ramaswamy may be a fan of Rap God Eminem, but it appears that the feeling is one-sided.

The famous Grammy-winning rapper Eminem, who is formally known as Marshall B Mathers III, has  as his lyrics go  snapped the desi candidate back to reality after the unauthorised use of his music. The artist has sent a cease and desist letter to the Republican hopeful, asking him to stop rapping to his tunes or using them on the 2024 presidential election campaign trail.

Interestingly, while candidates often get sent cease-and-desist letters all the time from artists who dont want to be associated with them, usually its just for playing the songs at rallies  not for actually performing them.

Eminems action against Ramaswamy

Eminem through BMI, a performing rights organisation, has informed Ramaswamys campaign, has objected to the Republicans use of his music and has even issued a cease and desist letter on the same.

In a letter dated 23 August, a representative for BMI informed the campaigns lawyer that the label had received communications from Marshall B Mathers, III, professionally known as Eminem, objecting to the Vivek Ramaswamy campaigns use of Eminems musical compositions (the Eminem Works) and requesting that BMI remove all Eminem Works from the Agreement.

BMI will consider any performance of the Eminem Works by the Vivek 2024 campaign from this date forward to be a material breach of the Agreement for which BMI reserves all rights and remedies with respect thereto, the letter read.

The action comes after Ramaswamy performed Eminems Lose Yourself at the Iowa State Fair, entertaining an early morning crowd gathered to hear him speak alongside Iowas Republican Governor Kim Reynolds.

Reynolds had asked the 38-year-old entrepreneur to name his favourite walkout song to which Ramaswamy responded with Eminems famous song, Lose Yourself. The song was then blasted out, to which Ramaswamy grabbed the mic and created a viral campaign trail moment.

Rapping Republican: Vivek Ramaswamys Surprising Eminem Moment Vivek Ramaswamy, a Republican presidential candidate and successful biotech entrepreneur, recently showcased a surprising side at the Iowa State Fair. Amidst his political pursuits, Ramaswamy took the stage to rap pic.twitter.com/4tkvM0aMk5  GOP News (@gopnews2024) August 19, 2023

Vivek just got on the stage and cut loose. To the American peoples chagrin, we will have to leave the rapping to the real slim shady, a spokesperson for Ramaswamys campaign told DailyMail.com, reacting to the cease and desist letter.

Ramaswamys Eminem tryst

Notably, this isnt Ramaswamys first brush with Eminem or rap music. The Republican hopeful has expressed his fondness for the rapper in the past and he also had a fledgling rap career before he dreamt of the White House.

During his time as an undergrad at Harvard, Ramaswamy had a side-hustle as a libertarian-minded rap artist who went by the stage name Da Vek. In a Politico interview, he has spoken of how Eminem has served as an inspiration to him while growing up. He said in that interview that in Eminem, he found an insurgent-like figure, the kind of persona he aspired to and still seems to draw at least some inspiration from.

Hes growing up in the trailers, with a single mom, and he wants to make it. Hes going to use the moment to do it. He feels like hes going to use the moment to do it, he seizes it and then he makes it happen, and I thought it was a pretty cool story, Ramaswamy told Politico. I didnt grow up in a trailer, but I also didnt grow up in the same circumstances that most of my peers at Harvard did, either. I aspired to achieve what many of their parents did. It kind of spoke to me, I would say.

However, Ramaswamy in recent times has changed his opinion on the rapper himself. He no longer sees Eminem as the underdog outsider he was drawn to as a college freshman. But says he still admires Eminems music.

The rise of Vivek Ramaswamy

Ramaswamy, the youngest candidate in the Republican presidential field, has been faring well on the campaign trail and has carved a name out for him. According to a Fox News poll, he has risen to the third place in the race behind former US president Donald Trump and Florida governor Ron DeSantis.

Considered an outsider to politics, Ramaswamy performed beyond expectations at last weeks Republican debate. He stole the show, throwing jibes at his fellow hopefuls, declaring at one point that, Im the only person on the stage who isnt bought and paid for.

Such was his performance that Trump, who chose to skip the first debate, crowned him the winner of the night.

Since announcing his candidacy for the 2024 US presidential elections, Ramaswamy has positioned himself as his partys next Donald Trump, though younger and farther to the right. Hes also a defender of Trump, calling him the best president of the 21st Century and vowing that, as president, he would pardon him if he were convicted. Hes also called on other candidates to pledge the same.

Also read: How Vivek Ramaswamy is winning over Donald Trump supporters

Interestingly, his stance has made many political pundits believe that Ramaswamy is campaigning less for the presidency and more for a spot in a potential second Trump administration. But Ramaswamy has repeatedly said hes not interested in the running mate role, telling NPR, Im not looking at this as building my own career. And earlier this month, he told Fox News that hes not interested in a different position in the government.

When musicians clash with candidates

Eminems action against Ramaswamy joins the long list of artists going up against candidates. Trump had received dozens of letters from record stars  including the Rolling Stones, Queen, Adele and Pharrell Williams  informing him he lacked permission to use their music at campaign and presidential events.

In 2008, the Foo Fighters spoke out against Republican John McCain for using their tune My Hero during his presidential run.

Way back in 1984, Bruce Springsteen had expressed his disapproval of President Ronald Reagans use of Born in the USA.

With inputs from agencies
India is all set to host the 18th G20 Summit in September.

India, which assumed the G20 presidency from Indonesia in December under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, will host the summit on 9 and 10 September in New Delhi.

Modi on Sunday said Indias presidency  its first ever of the grouping  has been a peoples presidency and it has made the grouping a more inclusive forum.

In his monthly Mann Ki Baat radio broadcast, Modi also said that India is fully prepared for the G20 leaders summit, and heads of 40 countries and many global organisations are coming to Delhi to participate in the event.

This will be the biggest participation ever in the history of the G20 Summit, Modi added.

But who will attend the G20? And which leaders will give it a miss?

Lets take a closer look:

Yes

US president Joe Biden, Chinas Xi Jinping, Canadas Justin Trudeau, Frances Emmanuel Macron and the UKs Rishi Sunak are some of the big-hitters slated to attend.

The White House last week confirmed that Biden would travel to India from 7 to 10 September and attend the G-20 Leaders Summit. Biden will discuss with other leaders a range of global challenges, including the Ukraine conflict, the White House said in a statement. President Biden will also commend Prime Minister Narendra Modis leadership of the G20, the White House added.

Chinas XI will also be present for the summit.

This comes after some speculation over his attendance was sparked earlier in August by foreign secretary Vinay Kwatra not respond to the question of whether Xi would travel to India, as per The Times of India.

Xi and Modi had on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit agreed to a de-eseclation in Ladakh.

Sunak, the UK prime minister, is also confirmed for the meet.

According to The Times, Sunak has expressed an openness to meet Xi for a one-on-one during the summit.

As per Hindustan Times, Canadas Justin Trudeau last week announced that he would travel to Delhi for the summit.

South Korean Ambassador to India Chang Jae Bok had earlier in August confirmed President Yoon Suk Yeols participation at the G20.

Our president is coming to the (G20) Summit which is being held on 9-10 September. We strongly support Indias G20 presidency this year and we hope that the Summit meeting in September will be the highlight and culmination of the G20 presidency efforts by the Indian Government, said the envoy.

Australia in August had confirmed that its Prime Minister Anthony Albanese will attend the G20 summit in Delhi.

From September 9-10, the Prime Minister will attend the G20 Leaders Summit in New Delhi, the Australian government said in a statement.

Albaneses visit to India will be part of his three-nation tour, Canberra said.

The other two countries that he will be visiting are Indonesia and the Philippines.

NDTV reported that Bangladeshs Sheikh Hasina would also be present for the G20.

The outlet quoted deputy high commissioner Andalib Elias as saying that Bangladesh is hopeful that Hasina and Modi can have a bilateral meet.

No, but

While Russias Vladimir Putin is skipping the summit, foreign minister Sergei Lavrov will attend on his behalf.

NDTV reported that Putin on Monday informed Modi of his inability to attend the meet.

Modi told Putin he understood his decision as well as thanked the Russian president for Moscows support of Indias G20 presidency.

Al Jazeera quoted Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov as saying Putin is focussing on the special military operation in Ukraine.

Putin skipping the G20 should come as little surprise.

Putin has in recent years made a habit of skipping high-profile meets around the globe.

Putin in August did not attend the BRICS nations summit  the first such in person meet since the emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic and the subsequent global restrictions  in South Africa.

The announcement was made by the office of South Africas president Cyril Ramaphosa

By mutual agreement, President Vladimir Putin of the Russian Federation will not attend the summit, but the Russian Federation will be represented by Foreign Minister Mr [Sergey] Lavrov, Ramaphosas spokesperson was quoted as saying by Al Jazeera.

The summit was attended by the leaders of Brazil, India, China and South Africa. Putin instead made his remarks via video-conference.

The Russian leader did not attend the G20 in July 2022 in Bali. He also skipped the January 2021 G20 in Italy.

Lavrov, who had replaced Putin at all these summits, will yet again stand in for the Russian leader in Delhi.

Putin had, until Mondays definitive decision, remained reticent when it came to the question of attending the G20.

In July, answering a query from a journalist about whether he would attend the summit, remained decidedly non-committal.

I dont know. I didnt think about it. Well see, Putin was quoted as saying by TASS.

However, Putin skipping the summits this year comes after the International Criminal Court (ICC) issued an arrest warrant for Putin and top Russian official Maria Alekseyevna Lvova-Belova in March.

The court, based in the Hague, said the Russian president bears responsibility for alleged war crimes committed by Russian forces in Ukraine.

The ICC said Putin is allegedly responsible for the war crime of unlawful deportation of the population (children) and that of unlawful transfer of population (children) from occupied areas of Ukraine to the Russian Federation.

Moscow at the time utterly dismissed the warrant as meaningless and noted that Russia had withdrawn from the court in 2016.

Russia is not a member of the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court and bears no obligations under it. Russia does not cooperate with this body, and possible [pretences] for arrest coming from the International Court of Justice will be legally null and void for us.

As a member of the ICC, South Africa was under a legal obligation to arrest Putin if he turned up, as per The Conversation.

That would have created an uncomfortable situation for South Africa and its leaders.

Putin would have faced no such threat in India as New Delhi is not a signatory to the Rome Statute.

Maybe

According to Hindustan Times, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Turkey, Mexico, Japan, Italy, Germany, Indonesia, Brazil and Argentina have yet to confirm whether they will or will not attend.

The G20 comprises 19 nations  Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, the Republic of Korea, Mexico, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Turkey, the United Kingdom and the United States  and the European Union.

Spain, meanwhile, is a permanent guest.

Its members represent over 85 per cent of global GDP, 75 per cent of global trade and two-thirds of the worlds population.

With inputs from agencies
India and Pakistan have a tumultuous relationship and hence diplomats tread a tightrope. Now for the first time since Independence, India has appointed a woman to head its mission in the neighbouring nation. Geetika Srivastava, a 2005 batch Indian Foreign Service (IFS) officer, will be the new Charge dAffaires (CDA) in Islamabad. She will take over from M Suresh Kumar, who is expected to return to New Delhi.

Since August 2019, the India and Pakistan missions have not been headed by high commissioners. Following the scrapping of the special status of Jammu and Kashmir, Islamabad decided to downgrade ties with India. The relationship between the two arch-rivals hit an all-time low as Pakistan-based groups continue terror-related activities across the border.

With no high commissioners, the CDA, who is equivalent to a joint secretary, is the highest-ranking diplomat in Islamabad. Srivastava then will be leading Indias High Commission in Pakistan and has her task cut out.

Who is Geetika Srivastava?

The IFS officer currently serves as joint secretary at the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) and is looking into the Indo-Pacific division, according to a report in The Indian Express. This unit looks after Indias multilateral diplomacy with ASEAN, IORA, FIPIC, and other entities in the Indo-Pacific region.

Srivastava also served in the Indian embassy in China from 2007 to 2009. She learnt Mandarin as part of her foreign language training. She had stints at the Regional Passport Office in Kolkata and worked as the director of the Indian Ocean Region division in the MEA.

She is expected to start her assignment shortly.

What is the role of the Charge daffaires?

According to the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations, Charge daffaires is the lowest rank of diplomatic representation in a country. They head the mission in the absence of an ambassador, as is the case with India and Pakistan. The appointment is made in cases where tenuous diplomatic relations exist between two nations.

Has India sent women diplomats to Pakistan?

Yes, India has sent women diplomats to Pakistan but not in high-ranking positions. Serving in Pakistan comes with challenges of its own.

A few years ago, Islamabad was declared a non-family posting for Indian diplomats. This made it difficult for women to take up the assignment, as their spouses and children could not accompany them.

As of now, the Indian High Commission has one woman diplomat, who works at the first secretary level, reports The Indian Express.

Since Independence, there have been 22 heads of missions, all of them men. Sri Prakasa was first the Indian High Commissioner sent to the then Dominion of Pakistan. The freedom fighter and administrator served from 1947 to 1949.



Who was Indias last High Commissioner to Islamabad?

The last Indian High Commissioner to Islamabad was Ajay Bisaria. He was withdrawn after Pakistan downgraded the status of the High Commission after the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019.

Who has Pakistan appointed?

The Pakistani government has picked Saad Warraich as the new Charge daffaires in New Delhi. He is currently serving as the director general of the Afghanistan, Iran and Turkey desk at the foreign ministry.

Salman Sharif, the previous Pakistani charge daffaires, was recently called back to Islamabad.

With inputs from agencies
India is gearing up to host the G20 Summit next week, which is expected to see the presence of 43 heads of state. To ensure foolproof security of the dignitaries, New Delhi will be transformed into a fortress for which arrangements have already begun.

The G20 Leaders Summit is scheduled for 9-10 September at Pragati Maidans Bharat Mandapam Convention Centre in Delhi. From traffic restrictions to beefing up security, lets look at how New Delhi is leaving no stone unturned for the mega event.

Securing the foreign dignitaries

As many as 700 Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel will be responsible for the security of 43 foreign leaders arriving in New Delhi for the G20 summit, reported Hindustan Times (HT).

All these personnel have previous National Security Guards (NSG) or Special Protection Group (SPG) experience.

Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) troops will be in charge of the security of the spouses and family members of these leaders.

These 700-plus personnel are all trained in dignitary protection. They will be working with their foreign counterparts (personal security) of the respective heads of state and function like the SPG does, a CRPF official told the newspaper on the condition of anonymity.

SPG, consisting of only elite officers from the police, paramilitary forces, Intelligence Bureau (IB) and Research and Analysis Wing (RAW), is in charge of the security of Indias Prime Minister.

A refresher course in VIP security has been given to those who have handled high-profile VIPs in their previous stints with SPG or NSG. It is almost like the 10-week training that is given to commandos. Soft skills have also been imparted about cultural sensibilities of the 18 countries whose delegates are expected to visit, an officer dealing with VIP security told CNN-News18.

According to Live Hindustan, foreign intelligence agencies of almost every country participating in the G20 summit are in contact with Indias RAW and IB for the protection of their respective leaders.

India has also readied several backup vehicles to ferry the dignitaries. Nearly 4,000 Delhi Police personnel, mostly in plain clothes, will be present at the G20 venue in Pragati Maidan, CNN-News18 reported.

Hotel security

The Indian Air Force (IAF) and NSG will take charge in case an intervention is required in the hotels where the foreign dignitaries will be staying, noted News18.

As per a Times of India (TOI) report, hotels will have House Intervention Teams or HIT squads, comprising Delhi Police officers and NSG commandos, in order to tackle any hostage crisis during the summit. Equipped with arms such as Israeli Tavor TAR-21 assault rifles and American Glock 17 pistols, HIT teams are trained in urban warfare in closed spaces.

These will be different from special weapons and tactics (SWAT) teams which will be present outside the designated hotels, TOI reported. In case of any hostage crisis, HIT members will have the support of snipers who will have a view of the hotel galleries.

IAF and NSG will carry out slithering drills at designated hotels this week to check if commandos can land via choppers in case of emergencies, as per News18.

ALSO READ: G20: How India has walked the talk on Global South

QRT, drones and more

More than 450 quick response teams (QRT) of police and disaster management units will be stationed at the G20 summit venue, 23 designated hotels and routes taken by the foreign leaders, news agency PTI reported citing officials.

To further heighten the security, seven disaster management teams will remain deployed at strategic locations, including four hotels, Pragati Maidan, Rajghat and IARI-PUSA (Indian Agricultural Research Institute).

From the Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport route to their designated hotels, 69 explosive detection dogs from the K9 squad of the police will be placed at critical sites across the National Capital, Indian Express reported.

Most of these canines are trained in explosive detection, some in sniffing out narcotics and others are tracker dogs.

The dogs will be deployed along with two handlers each as part of the anti-sabotage check team during the summit. They will be deployed round-the-clock outside the airport, hotels where the dignitaries will be staying, and places they will visit, a senior police officer told the newspaper.

The Indian Armys anti-sabotage teams comprising more than 5,000 personnel will help in keeping the National Capital safe, reported Times Now.

As per PTI, as many as 80 teams of doctors and 130 ambulances are preparing to handle any health emergencies that may arise during the summit. Security personnel and health experts are ready to deal with any kind of threat  terror, nuclear, biological and chemical.

Around 66 fire tenders will be parked at the G20 venue and designated hotels, reported the news agency.

As per News18, bomb disposal, anti-drone, anti-biological and chemical weapon units are also on standby. The anti-drone units with specialised guns and jamming devices will be stationed at the G20 venue.

AI or Artificial Intelligence-powered cameras are being used to alert security if anyone is found scaling the walls or depicting unusual body movements during the summit, reported The New Indian Express (TNIE).

According to Times Now, anti-drone systems that can be mounted on vehicles will monitor airborne threats.

Restricted traffic movement

Over 10,000 traffic police personnel will oversee smooth vehicular movement during the summit, as per the TNIE report.

The entry of Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGVs), Medium Goods Vehicles (MGVs), and Light Goods Vehicles (LGVs) into the National Capital will be barred during the summit days. Only goods vehicles carrying essential commodities like milk, vegetables, ration items, medicines, and petroleum products will be allowed, HT reported.

While interstate buses can enter Delhi, they will have terminating points on the Ring Road. Vehicles already in Delhi will have to face traffic diversions. Arrangements will be made for passengers travelling to Indira Gandhi International (IGI), New Delhi and Old Delhi Railway stations during the summit days.

Moreover, about 160 domestic flights to and from IGI Airport were reportedly cancelled between 8 and 10 September due to the G20 summit.

These traffic restrictions will remain in place till 10 September 10, as per TNIE.

With inputs from agencies
India has landed on the Moon and is now looking towards the Sun. Aditya, which means sun, will be sent into a halo orbit in a region of space 1.5 million kilometres (930,000 miles) from Earth, providing the craft with a continuous clear view of the Sun, on 2 September.

As the Indian Space Research Organisation is set to launch its solar mission Aditya-L1, following are some important missions launched by space agencies of different countries exploring the Sun:

US: National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), the US space agency, launched the Parker Solar Probe in August 2018. In December 2021, Parker flew through the Sun's upper atmosphere, the corona, and sampled particles and magnetic fields there. This was the first time ever that a spacecraft touched the Sun, according to NASA's official website.

In February 2020, the NASA joined hands with the European Space Agency (ESA) and launched The Solar Orbiter to collect data to find out how the Sun created and controlled the constantly changing space environment throughout the solar system.

Other active solar missions by NASA are Advanced Composition Explorer launched in August, 1997; Solar Terrestrial Relations Observatory in October, 2006; Solar Dynamics Observatory in February, 2010; and Interface Region Imaging Spectrograph launched in June, 2013.

Also, in December, 1995, NASA, ESA and JAXA (Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency) jointly launched the Solar and Heliospheric Observatory (SOHO).

Japan: JAXA, the Japan's space agency, launched its first solar observation satellite, Hinotori (ASTRO-A), in 1981. The objective was to study solar flares using hard X-rays, according to JAXA's official website.

JAXA's other solar exploratory missions are Yohkoh (SOLAR-A) launched in 1991; SOHO (along with NASA and ESA) in 1995; and Transient Region and Coronal Explorer (TRACE), along with NASA, in 1998.

In 2006, Hinode (SOLAR-B) was launched, which was the successor to Yohkoh (SOLAR-A), the orbiting solar observatory. Japan launched it in collaboration with the US and the UK. The objective of Hinode, an observatory satellite, is to study the impact of the Sun on the Earth.

Europe: In October, 1990, the ESA launched Ulysses to study the environment of space above and below the poles of the Sun. Other than solar missions launched in collaboration with the NASA and the JAXA, the ESA launched Proba-2 in October, 2001. Proba-2 is the second of the Proba series, building on nearly eight years of successful Proba-1 experience, even as Proba-1 was not a solar exploratory mission.

On-Board Proba-2 were four experiments, two of them were solar observation experiments.

Proba stands for Project for On-Board Autonomy. Upcoming solar missions of the ESA include Proba-3, scheduled for 2024 and Smile, scheduled for 2025.

China: The Advanced Space-based Solar Observatory (ASO-S) was successfully launched by National Space Science Centre, Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), on 8 October, 2022.

With inputs from PTI
Pakistan is facing a sticker shock.

People have taken to the streets to protest the sky-high electricity bills across the country, while the caretaker government is considering different ways in which to bring the tariff down  and quickly.

But what is happening in Pakistan? And why? And what steps is the government taking?

Lets take a closer look:

What is happening?

As per Indian Express, major protests have erupted in major cities including Rawalpindi, Peshawar, Karachi, Lahore and Multan.

Roads have been blocked, tyres burned and slogans raised against the caretaker government for days

#Pakistan Protests are being held against heavy electricity bills in major cities and towns of the country. After the hefty increase in electricity prices across the country, heavy bills and taxes have forced the people to take to the streets. pic.twitter.com/g4JnWEMyaq  Ghulam Abbas Shah (@ghulamabbasshah) August 25, 2023



As per The Times of India, people have publicly set fire to their bills and even faced off with power company officials.

One company even ordered its officials to remove government license plates from their cars, as per the report.

As per ARY News, some took to social media to claim that the electricity bills sent exceeded even their monthly salaries.

The public, traders and businessmen alike have proclaimed that they cannot bear the exorbitant cost of electricity and announced that they will not pay their bills.

Trade unions have claimed that the soaring cost of electricity will force many businesses to shutter.

In Balakot, the business community on Monday rejected the recent increase in electricity bills and announced a shutdown strike.

The community, under the banner of Anjuman Tajran, took to the streets and demanded immediate action to reduce their economic pain, The Express Tribune reported.

The chamber of commerce in Hyderabad announced a shutter-down strike.

Businesses also remained closed in Mansehra after a union of traders called for a complete shutdown of all business centres in the city, the report said. Meanwhile, a complete shutdown was witnessed in Pind Dadan Khan.

People in Rawalpindi surrounded the Islamabad Electric Supply Company (IESCO) grid station and set fire to their electricity bills, The Express Tribune reported.

As per India Today, demonstrators also surrounded the Gujranwala Electric Power Companys office.

Senators voiced concerns regarding the electricity situation in Pakistan and highlighted the sufferings of the people due to theft, line losses, and defaulters.

Meanwhile, the Jamaat-i-Islami (JI) has called a nationwide strike on 2 September, as per Indian Express.

Why is this happening?

Electricity bills have spiked after the crisis-hit nation agreed to increase its power tariffs in order to secure a deal with the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

The IMF in a contentious, drawn-out negotiation with Islamabad, demanded that Pakistan boost its tax revenues as one of the terms of the agreement.

Indian Express quoted Kristalina Georgieva, managing director and chair, IMF, as saying, The anticipated improvement in tax revenues is critical to strengthen public finances, and to eventually create the fiscal space needed to bolster social and development spendingIn parallel, the authorities urgently need to strengthen energy sector viability by aligning tariffs with costs, reforming the sectors cost base, and better-targeting power subsidies.

As per Business Today, the Pakistani public is being charged Rs 42 per unit of electricity.

As per The Times of India, Pakistans power tariff has increased around 75 per cent over the past year, as per The Times of India.

Worse, the average cost of electricity has more than doubled for low- to middle-class households since May, Dawn reported.

The South Asia Index posted a comparison of how much the average consumer would pay in India and Pakistan.

Comparison of electricity bills for an average consumer in Pakistan & India:  Total units consumed: 300

 Average bill in : 1300 INR

 Average bill in : 12,000 PKR  Taxes on a 5000 electricity bill: : 700 rupees

: 1800 rupees  South Asia Index (@SouthAsiaIndex) August 27, 2023



Authorities in Pakistan have also blamed increasing energy rates for the electricity hike, as per Indian Express.

An editorial in the newspaper Dawn has called for structural reforms.

The bad news is that electricity prices in the country will continue to climb even after a downturn in international fuel prices as long as there is no move to undertake long-standing power sector reforms in order to sharply cut system losses, control the allegedly rampant corruption in the distribution companies, stop widespread power theft by the powerful, and, more importantly, reduce reliance on imported fuels by shifting to local fuels for generation and encouraging renewable energy, the editorial stated.

Speaking to India Today, historian Ammar Ali Jan, assistant professor of history, Punjab University, Lahore, said the public is releasing its fury after being confronted with a whole host of crises.

The frustration is over the multiple crises including political instability, authoritarianism, social contradictions and climate catastrophes that have made peoples lives precarious. Protests against the electricity hike is a symptom of these disparate crises and a point of convergence for their expression, Ali added.

What is the government doing?

The Pakistan-based The Express Tribune reported that the caretaker government is considering providing a one-slab benefit to households.

The government on Monday held a high-level meeting to address the issue.

During the meeting, there were discussions over various proposals intended to reduce the distress of the power consumers, which will subsequently be presented to the federal cabinet for approval on Tuesday.

Sources said that the plans to extend installment relief to the consumers for the bill payments were discussed, giving the citizens an option to pay their bills in more than two instalments and easing their financial burden, according to The Express Tribune report.

Similarly, another proposal that is being considered is to provide relief to the people by allowing them to pay a portion of the electricity bill during the winter months when energy consumption reduces. Furthermore, the meeting sought the Pakistan Finance Ministrys views on slashing the taxes imposed on the electricity bills.

The final decision regarding tax reduction will rely on whether it contradicts the agreement between the government and the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

The source said, If the reduction in taxes is not repugnant to the agreement with the IMF, then the government will definitely cut the existing taxes on the electricity bills.

Pakistans Ministry of Energy said that a high-level meeting on power bills had taken place. Pakistans Caretaker Minister for Information and Broadcasting Murtaza Solangi said that the energy ministry has finalised recommendations with respect to the electricity bills, The Express Tribune reported.

The recommendations were finalised at a high-level meeting that took place at Pakistans Ministry of Energy.

On Sunday, Pakistans interim Prime Minister Anwaar ul Haq Kakar held an emergency meeting during which he directed authorities to devise concrete steps within the next 48 hours for a reduction in electricity bills.

The directives were issued at the emergency meeting at the PMs Office (PMO) convened by Kakar in a bid to address the complaints about excessive electricity bills.

We will not take any step in haste that will harm the country. We will take measures that wont further burden the national exchequer and will facilitate the consumers, Kakar said at the meeting.

It is not possible that while the people face difficulties, high-ranked officials and the prime minister continue to consume free electricity paid for with the taxes people pay, he added.

He directed relevant departments and ministries to submit to him the details of the officers who were being provided free electricity, said a statement issued by the PMO.

I represent the common man, the prime minister said.

He pledged that measures would be implemented to minimise electricity consumption at the PM House and Pak Secretariat. For that, he added, even if the air conditioner in my room has to be turned off, do it.

Regarding Mondays meeting, the prime minister said he would hold a detailed consultation with provincial chief ministers on the exorbitant bills for July and the implementation of measures for energy conservation.

Seeking a roadmap from electricity distribution companies to curb electricity theft, he directed relevant authorities to submit a short, medium and long-term plan for reforms in the power sector.

In a post on platform X, the premier said that the interim government would try to provide as much relief to the people as possible while operating within its mandate.

PTI blames PML-N

Interim Finance Minister Shamshad Akhtar, caretaker Commerce Minister Gohar Ijaz, interim Information Minister Murtaza Solangi, adviser to PM Kakar Dr Waqar Masood, the power secretary, Water and Power Development Authority chairman, National Electric Power Regulatory Authority chairman and other relevant officials attended the meeting.

The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) blamed the Pakistan Muslim League-N party for the rising cost of electricity, warning that power tariffs might jump to around Pakistani Rupee (PKR) 85 per unit in the next few months, Dawn reported.

With protests erupting over inflated power bills, PTI secretary general Omar Ayub Khan said the PML-N government was responsible for the inflated and unbearable electricity bills

He stated further that the PML-N was making the country dependent on expensive imported energy, as the capacity payments due to take-and-pay contracts had touched PKR 2,000 billion this year.

PML-N made Pakistan dependent on expensive imported energy and today 70 per cent of the electricity produced in Pakistan is dependent on imported fuels, he said.

The fuel price adjustments were getting higher due to the rupees devaluation, he said, claiming that the price of electricity had jumped by more than four times in just 15 months  from PKR 16 per unit during PTIs tenure to PKR 68 per unit, Dawn reported.

After the surge in electricity bills, the general public and traders associations staged protests in multiple cities and later this matter went to Pakistan caretaker Prime Minister Anwarul-Haq Kakar. Looking at the matter, he called an emergency meeting on Sunday.

The Express Tribune reported that the caretaker premier called the meeting in Islamabad and directed the energy ministry and the electricity distribution companies to give a detailed briefing in this regard.

As per the statement from Pakistans PMO, consultations will be held regarding giving maximum relief to consumers regarding electricity bills.

Earlier, a protest in Karachi, which was also supported by Jamaat-e-Islami (JI), demanded a reduction in the ever-increasing electricity prices and additional taxes imposed through power bills.

Addressing the protesters, JIs Karachi Amir Hafiz Naeemur Rehman, warned that if the government continues to burden the public, the situation could further deteriorate. Our struggle is against the white-collar mafia in KE, he said, underscoring the commitment to represent the peoples interests, reported The Express Tribune.

At a similar protest in Pakistans Rawalpindi, the demonstrators raised slogans against Islamabad Electric Supply Company.

The publication reported that protests were also staged in Lahore, Attock, Peshawar, Quetta, Taunsa, Hyderabad, Nawabshah, Rahim Yar Khan and Multan against the inflated electricity bills. A large number of people participated in the demonstrations.

Earlier, a report stated that Pakistan is burdened with costly plants and commitments that people have been struggling to pay for, The News International reported.

Pakistanis paid Rs 41 billion for partial load adjustment charges in 2022, resulting from the underutilisation of thermal power plants (with only 46 per cent utilization) and Rs 721 billion in capacity payments, the report noted.

With inputs from agencies
China has created fresh controversy ahead of the G20 meet in India.

Beijing on Monday released the 2023 edition of its standard map showing the state of Arunachal Pradesh and the Aksai Chin region in Ladakh as part of its territory.

The 2023 edition of Chinas standard map was officially released on Monday and launched on the website of the standard map service hosted by the Ministry of Natural Resources, state-run Global Times said in a post on X.

The development comes days after days after Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese president Xi Jinping agreed to de-escalation on the Ladakh border.

India has repeatedly stated that Arunachal Pradesh has always been and will always be an integral part of the country.

So why does China keep claiming Arunachal Pradesh and the disputed territory of Aksai Chin?

Lets take a closer look:

Arunachal Pradesh

Arunachal Pradesh is largest state in Indias Northeast. It shares international borders with Tibet, Myanmar and Bhutan.

China claims the entire Arunachal Pradesh as South Tibet. Beijing calls the region Zangnan in the Chinese language.

The issue here is with the Line of Actual Control  which separates Indian and Chinese territory.

As per Indian Express, India pegs the LAC at 3,488 kilometres, while China says it is around 2,000 kilometres.

The LAC is split into three sectors:

The Eastern Sector  Arunachal Pradesh and Sikkim

Middle Sector  Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh

Western Sector  Ladakh

The Eastern sector sees the McMahon Line  named after then British India foreign secretary Sir Henry McMahon, who drew the line at the 1914 Simla Convention  acting as the de facto boundary.

However, after the current communist government of China took power in 1949, it backtracked on all treaties it deemed unequal.

It also demanded that all its borders be reconsidered.

As per Indian Express, in November 1959, then premier Zhou in a letter to then prime minister Nehru wrote the LAC was the so-called McMahon Line in the east and the line upto which each side exercises actual control in the west.

Nehru responded, There is no sense or meaning in the Chinese offer to withdraw twenty kilometres from what they call line of actual control. What is this line of control? Is this the line they have created by aggression since the beginning of September (1962)? Advancing forty or sixty kilometres by blatant military aggression and offering to withdraw twenty kilometres provided both sides do this is a deceptive device which can fool nobody.

According to The Times of India, Chinas main interest is in Tawang  which lies in the states north-western region and shares international borders with Bhutan and Tibet.

Tawang also houses Tawang Ganden Namgyal Lhatse or Tawang Monastery  the second largest monastery of Tibetan Buddhism in the world.

China claims Arunachal Pradesh has been part of its territory since ancient times.

Zhang Yongpan, a research fellow of the Institute of Chinese Borderland Studies of the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, told the Global Times in April that the governments move to rename Zangnam falls within Chinas sovereignty and it is also in accordance with the regulation on the administration of geographical names.

China cites historical ties between the Tawang monastery and Tibets Lhasa monastery to bolster its claims over Arunachal Pradesh.

Aksai Chin

The Aksai Chin region has been at the heart of a dispute between the two nations since the 1950s.

China occupied the Aksai Chin during the 1962 war with India. The region itself is a cold, desert wasteland nearly the size of Bhutan.

It gets neither rain nor snow. Almost entirely uninhabited, it relies on the Karakash river for water and brackish lakes, as per India Today.

CNN quoted British historian Neville Maxwell as calling it a no-mans land, where nothing grows and no one lives.

So why would China be interested in such a place?

The answer is strategic.

China needs Aksai Chin in order to connect Tibet to its Xinjiang province.

UK think-tank Chatham House in June reported that satellite imagery of Aksai Chin shows China has expanded roads, outposts, installed modern weatherproof camps equipped with parking areas, solar panels as well as helipads.

The analysis was based on satellite images taken across six months since October 2022.

The Print reported in July 2022 that China had begun building a new highway that will pass through the Aksai Chin region.

The highway, which is being called the G695 national expressway, is near the Line of Actual Control and will connect Xinjiang to Tibet.

According to the outlet, the highway would allow Beijing yet anothe access point to assemble and forward troops to the LAC.

It would also help with logistics for troops already posted at the LAC.

China, much like Arunachal Pradesh, lays an ancient claim to Aksai Chin.

A piece in India Today says Beijing lays claim to Aksai China as part of Chinas medieval empire.

It is a convenient claim from an era when boundaries did not have the same sanctity as they do in the times of nation-states, the piece noted.

What do experts say?

India Today quoted historian Ramchandra Guha as writing in his book India After Gandhi, No official Chinese maps showed Aksai Chin as part of China before the 1920s, and a Sinkiang (Xinjiang) map of the 1930s showed the Kunlun (the mountains) rather than the Karakoram (range) to have been the customary boundary  which had been the Indian claim all along.

Praveen Swami, in a piece in Firstpost, had noted that numerous experts think India and China will eventually need to compromise on both Arunachal and Aksai China.

.in essence, that India will have to sacrifice its claims to Aksai Chin in Ladakh for China acknowledging Indian sovereignty over Arunachal Pradesh.

Swami noted that while both sides had talked around the issue, neither seemed keen on sacrificing the political capital needed to achive such a deal.

Beijings repeated attempts to claim Arunachal

This isnt the first time Beijing has made such a move to claim Arunachal.

China in April renamed places in Arunachal Pradesh for the third time since 2017  a move that has was strongly rebuffed by the Indian government.

Chinas Ministry of Civil Affairs released a list of standardised names of 11 places in Arunachal in Chinese, Tibetan and pinyin characters on 2 April.

These places include two land areas, two residential areas, five mountain peaks and two rivers.

The ministry of external affairs had at the time dismissed Beijings actions.

We have seen such reports. This is not the first time China has made such an attempt. We reject this outright. Arunachal Pradesh is, has been, and will always be an integral and inalienable part of India. Attempts to assign invented names will not alter this reality, the MEA said in a statement.

China in 2021 objected to a visit to Arunachal Pradesh by Vice-President M Venkaiah Naidu.

India hit back saying that such a protest does not stand to reason and understanding of Indian people.

We reject such comments. Arunachal Pradesh is an integral and inalienable part of India. Indian leaders routinely travel to the State as they do to any other state of India, the MEA spokesperson said.

China in 2017, just days after a visit to Arunachal from the Dalai Lama which it protested, released the first batch of standardised names for six places in the state.

According to relevant regulations on the management of place names, the department has standardised some place names in Chinas South Tibet region. We have released the first batch of the place names in South Tibet (six in total), the Chinese government had said at the time.

India-China hold talks in Ladakh

India and China held the 19th round of Corps Commander Level talks earlier this month at the Chushul-Moldo meeting point on the Indian side.

The Indian and Chinese troops have been locked in an over three-year confrontation in certain friction points in eastern Ladakh even as the two sides completed disengagement from several areas following extensive diplomatic and military talks.

India has been maintaining that its ties with China cannot be normal unless there is peace in the border areas.

The eastern Ladakh border standoff erupted on May 5, 2020, following a violent clash in the Pangong lake area.

The ties between the two countries nosedived significantly following the fierce clash in the Galwan Valley in June 2020 that marked the most serious military conflict between the two sides in decades.

As a result of a series of military and diplomatic talks, the two sides completed the disengagement process in 2021 on the north and south banks of the Pangong lake and in the Gogra area.

With inputs from agencies
The USA, UK and China have once again been witnessing rise in coronavirus cases. According to a new CDC risk assessment, a new COVID-19 strain BA.2.86, nicknamed Pirola, is making more people infected in several parts of the world.

A report by Hindustan Times quoted coronavirologist Dr Pavithra Venkatagopalan saying that Pirola variant seems to have as many changes as Omicron had from Delta variant of coronavirus.

Along with Pirola, Eris too have been infecting people are increasing the number of COVID-19 patients around the world. Both originate from the XBB lineage which descended from Omicron. These two variants are currently under the vigilant observation of the World Health Organization (WHO).

How dangerous in new COVID-19 Pirola variant?

Not many samples of the new strain Pirola or BA.2.86 have been received so far. Due to limited samples, the severity is not known.

As per reports just nine samples of BA.2.86 variant have been received, but this does not mean that there are just these many cases.

It suggests that of all the COVID-19 cases that were tested for the genome sequence, nine have been identified in different parts of the world.

However, as per the assessment by the CDC, BA.2.86 may be more capable of causing infection in people who have previously had COVID-19 or who have received COVID-19 vaccines.

This indicates that it may be more likely to cause breakthrough infections than previous strains of the virus.

Where have these 9 cases been reported from?

Of the total nine cases of Pirola, or BA.2.86, collected so far, three have been reported from Denmark, two each in South Africa and the US, one each in UK and Israel.

Where was COVIDs new strain BA.2.86 first identified?

A report by Health.com said that Pirola or BA.2.86 was first identified on 24 July, 2023. The WHO recently added this new variant to its list of currently circulating variants under monitoring, noting that the strain has a large number of mutations identified.

Why Pirola or BA.2.86 is variant of interest?

Though BA.2.86 is a subvariant of Omicron, it has many, many more mutations than the mutations of each of the variants before, Timothy Murphy, MD, senior associate dean for clinical and translational research at the University at Buffalo Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, was quoted as saying by the Health.com.

Murphy further said, specifically, BA.2.86 has more than 35 amino acid changes to urs spike protein compared to the recently spreading XBB.1.5 on which the COVID-19 booster is based on.

As per CDC, the spoke protein mutations of BA.2.86 makes it likely to cause breakthrough infections.

The virus uses the spike protein to bind the disease to cells. Thats what the vaccines are directed against, Murphy said.

With so many mutations in the spike protein, there is a greater chance that the vaccine and having previously been infected with COVID-19 wont offer as much protection against BA.2.86 as prior strains of the virus, the report by Health.com quoted William Schaffner, MD, an infectious disease specialist and professor at the Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, as saying.

Schaffner further said that initially, officials thought that BA.2.86 was not all that much different but, now that they have noted there are many mutations, they have raised the question about whether there may be some immune evasion on the part of this strain.

How does the new COVID variant transmits?

A report by ToI quoted Dr. Kuldeep Kumar Grover, Head of Critical care, CK Birla Hospital, Gurugram saying that both BA.2.86 and Eris share transmits through droplets.

Symptoms of BA.2.86 new COVID variant

Symptoms of BA.2.86 include rashes, conjunctivitis, and diarrhoea. Common symptoms associated with Eris infection include fever, cough, shortness of breath, fatigue, muscle aches, headache, loss of taste and smell, and sore throat.

Should India be worried?

The ToI report said the populations past immunity from COVID vaccination may not provide full protection if BA.2.86 enters India because close to 17 or more mutations in the new subvariant are absolutely unfamiliar. However, active cases or new COVID cases in India do not indicate a surge.

Meanwhile, vaccine manufacturers have been updating their jabs as the virus is evolving. This, however, does not indicate that the previously administered vaccines are ineffective, but their efficacy might be somewhat less.

With inputs from agencies
August 23 will be celebrated as the National Space Day, announced the Union Cabinet on Tuesday.

Addressing a press briefing after the Cabinet meeting, Union Minister Anurag Thakur hailed the successful soft landing of Chandrayaan-3 on the lunar surface, saying: This is not just a victory for our space agency but is a bright symbol of Indias progress and ascent on the global stage.

VIDEO | The Cabinet lauds the historic success of ISRO scientists who worked for the Chandrayaan-3 mission. It is a symbol of our strength on global stage. It (Cabinet) also welcomes the move to celebrate August 23 as National Science Day, says Union Minister @ianuragthakur pic.twitter.com/k8IxcqPSCl  Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) August 29, 2023

Briefing reporters on the decisions taken by the Cabinet, Thakur said it congratulated the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) on its efforts.

The Cabinet thanked the scientists and noted that India has become the first country to land near the Moon's south pole.

"Landing on the moon, with predicted accuracy, in itself is a momentous achievement.

"Landing near the South Pole of the Moon, overcoming the arduous conditions, is a testament to the spirit of our scientists, who since centuries have sought to push the boundaries of human knowledge," read the resolution.

Thakur further said that the wealth of information being sent by Pragyan rover from the Moon will advance knowledge and pave the way for ground-breaking discoveries and insights into the mysteries of the moon and beyond.

"The Cabinet firmly believes that in an era defined by rapid technological advancements and the quest for innovation, India's scientists stand as shining beacons of knowledge, dedication and expertise. Their analytical prowess, combined with a fervent commitment to inquiry and exploration, has constantly propelled the nation into the forefront of global scientific achievements. Their relentless pursuit of excellence, unyielding curiosity, and indomitable spirit to overcome challenges have not only cemented their reputation on the international stage but have also inspired countless others to dream big and contribute to the vast tapestry of global knowledge," the release by PIB said.

The Cabinet further said that it is proud to see a large number of women scientists have contributed to the success of Chandrayaan-3 and Indias space programme in general. "This will motivate several aspiring women scientists in the years to come," it added.

The Cabinet also congratulates Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his visionary and exemplary leadership, and his unwavering commitment to Indias space programme for human welfare and scientific progress. His faith in the capabilities of our scientists and his constant encouragement have always fortified their spirit.

The Cabinet also welcomed the naming of two points on the Moon as Tiranga Point (footprint of Chandrayaan-2) and Shiv Shakti Point (Chandrayaan-3s landing spot).

"These names beautifully capture the essence of our past while embracing the spirit of modernity. These names are more than just titles. They establish a thread that intricately links our millennia-old heritage with our scientific ambitions." the Union Cabinet said.

It further said that the success of Chandrayaan-3 is one of the greatest testimonies to Prime Minister Narendra Modis clarion call of Jai Vigyan, Jai Anusandhan. The space sector will now further open up to Indian home-grown start-ups and MSMEs and generate lakhs of job and give scope for new inventions. It will open up a world of possibilities for the youth of India.
Assistant superintendent at Delhis Tihar jail, Deepak Sharma has become a victim of fraud and has been duped of Rs 51 lakh by a woman whom he happened to have met at a TV reality show.

Sharma, who is well-known for his passion for bodybuilding was cheated by the woman Rounak Gulia and her husband Ankit Gulia. The couple are said to be professional bodybuilders.

The cop said that he met Rounak Gulia in 2021. The duo convinced Sharma for investing in a health product business and become a brand ambassador with a promise of business gains.

Sharma alleged that he met Rounak Gulia, a national and state wrestling champion, at a reality show called Indias Ultimate Warrior on the Discovery Channel.

He further said Rounak Gulia told him that her wrestler husband, Ankit, is a well-known health product entrepreneur and that they were looking for investors.

They both allegedly convinced Sharma to invest Rs 51 lakh in their business and they enticed him with promises of huge profits. However, they later refused to return his money.

Talking to ANI, Sharma said, This started in February this year. I was supposed to receive return money in April, but I did not get any money.

Sharma went on to say that he then filed a complaint in Madhu Vihar police station under section 420. I have also filed a complaint in Bhajanpura police station as the accused took some payment from me near Bhajanpura police station Some payments that I have made to them are in cash.

#WATCH | Delhi: On being duped of Rs 51 Lakhs, Assistant Tihar Jailor Deepak Sharma says, I have been cheated of Rs 51 Lakhs by Raunak Gulia and Ankit Gulia in the name of supplementsThis started in February this yearI was supposed to receive return money in April but I pic.twitter.com/FKP4m7jwBC  ANI (@ANI) August 29, 2023

"As far as I know, they are professional cheaters...Earlier, a case of fraud worth Rs 5 crore was also filed against them in Cyber Rohtak in which their anticipatory bail was rejected and they are mentioned as absconding," Sharma said.

The Delhi Police is investigating the matter and are trying to track down the couple.

Deepak Sharma is an influencer and fitness enthusiast who is often likened to Salman Khan's character in the cop-action series 'Dabangg'.
One active cadre each of the proscribed insurgent groups political wing Revolutionary Peoples Front RPF/PLA, National Socialist Council of Nagalim Isak-Muivah (NSCN-IM) and two Over-Ground Workers (OGW) of Kangleipak Communist Party (KCP) were arrested during different search operations, Manipur police said on Tuesday.

The police stated that search operations were conducted by security forces in the fringe and vulnerable areas of Imphal-West, Imphal-East, Bishnupur, Thoubal and Kakching districts.

The statement added that six arms, five ammunition, and two explosives were recovered during search operations from Imphal-East and Bishnur districts.

The arrests were made on Monday.

Manipur Police arrested 1 active cadre of RPF/PLA, 1 active cadre of NSCN(IM) and 2 OGW of KCP (Lamyanba Khuman), Manipur police informed on X, formerly known as Twitter.

Meanwhile, the Supreme Court on Friday ordered to transfer trial of criminal cases being probed by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in Manipur violence to Guwahati in Assam.

A bench of Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud and Justices JB Pardiwala and Manoj Misra said there have been victims in valleys and in hills in Manipur and we cant go into who suffered more, there are victims in both communities.

The bench said victims and witnesses will be able to give testimony electronically from their homes in Manipur rather than physically coming to the court in Guwahati.

It passed a slew of directions on the trials in the cases bearing in mind the overall environment in Manipur and a need to ensure a fair process of criminal justice administration.

The violence in Manipur between the Meitei and Kuki communities erupted after a rally by the All Tribal Students Union of Manipur (ATSUM) on 3 May.

Violence has gripped the entire state for over four months now and the Central government had to deploy paramilitary forces to bring the situation under control.
A 19-year-old woman security guard working at a housing society here died on Monday after she was allegedly raped by her supervisor, police said.

The accused, Ajay (32), has been arrested, they said.

According to police, the crime took place on Sunday. The victim was admitted to Safdarjung Hospital in Delhi by her co-workers as her condition started deteriorating. She breathed her last Monday morning.

The woman belonged to Jharkhand and was living with her aunt in the close vicinity of the housing society, a senior police officer said.

Her family, however, alleged that she was raped by three men in the basement of the society and thereafter consumed poison due to which she was admitted to Safdarjung Hospital.

DCP (rural) Vivek Chand Yadav told PTI that the police have registered an FIR under section of rape (376 IPC) as he said the woman was not gang-raped. He said police have obtained footage from CCTV cameras installed inside the basement in which no such incident of gang-rape was observed.

Chand also said that her viscera has been sent to the forensic science laboratory to ascertain whether she died after consuming poison or due to her lung disease.
In a shocking turn of events, young female students from a local school in Ghaziabad took a drastic step to seek justice. Penned in blood, a heartfelt letter addressed to Chief Minister Yogi has emerged, revealing allegations of molestation against the schools principal. The incident has prompted swift action from the Ghaziabad police.

The four-page letter, composed with anguish, lays bare the disturbing experiences faced by the girls.

It accuses Principal Rajeev Pandey of subjecting them to unwarranted advances. The narrative suggests a pattern of abuse, with the principal reportedly summoning one girl after another to his office, where the misconduct would occur.

The girls wrote, Babaji we are girls studying in Kisan Adarsh Higher Secondary School Bamhaita village. The principal of our school, Rajeev Pandey, used to call one or the other girl to his office every day and misbehave with us and threatened to destroy us if we told this to anyone. Most of the girls remain silent because of his scare. Some of us girls dared to tell this thing at our home on 21st August, then our parents gathered together and went to the school with the female councilor Parmosh Yadav.

Where he talked to the manager. This angered the principal. He started abusing everyone. When the quarrel increased, our family members thrashed the principal. When we came to Wave City police station with our family members, ACP Saloni Aggarwal scolded us a lot and kept us sitting in the police station for 4 hours. Till now no action has been taken against the Principal. The police come to our house every day to scare and threaten the parents. It has become difficult to get out of our house. The school manager has forbidden us from coming to school. You are requested to give us an appointment. Babaji, we all are also your daughters. Give us justice.

Soon after the letter came in public domain, the principal retaliated by filing a counter-complaint against the parents of several girls, alleging physical assault.

ACP Saloni Aggarwal shed light on the official standpoint, asserting that a case was promptly registered against the principal based on the girls complaint.

The allegations range from molestation to inappropriate touching. The principals injuries were not disregarded either; his counter-complaint was duly noted.

The investigation led to the principals arrest on Tuesday morning. The accused is scheduled for a court appearance later today.

The incident has sparked public outcry, with Akhilesh Yadav expressing concern via Twitter.

The former Chief Minister questioned the delay in addressing the FIR filed by the girls.

Additionally, he echoed their claims of mistreatment by a police officer, urging a thorough inquiry into the matter.
With the Lok Sabha elections scheduled for early next year, a direct battle is brewing between the I.N.D.I.A alliance and the ruling NDA. On 1 September, both alliances will have parallel high-level meetings in Mumbai.

The I.N.D.I.A alliance will discuss the alliance strategies for Lok Sabha election and the seat sharing in the states. A new logo of the I.N.D.I.A alliance is also likely to be launched.

At the same time the NDA alliance in Maharashtra with new partner the Ajit Pawar-led NCP faction is also scheduled to meet on the same date in Mumbai. NCP MP Sunil Tatkare, who represents the Ajit Pawar faction said In this meeting, all our state government alliance partners BJP, ShivSena (Eknath Shinde) and NCP (Ajit Pawar) will participate.

When asked about the timing of the meeting which coincides with the INDIA alliance meeting, Sunil Tatkare said Our meeting was planned long back before the last state Assembly Monsoon Session by our coordination committee, so its no point to say that we are doing this as opposition parties are also having meeting on the same day.

Meanwhile, senior Congress senior leader Ashok Chavan also confirmed that around 26 to 27 opposition alliance parties will come for the I.N.D.I.A meeting.

An informal gathering will be held on the evening of August 31 in Mumbai and a formal meeting on 1 September. So far, two meetings have been organised. So in this third meeting, the next agenda will be discussed. We are deciding to make a common logo and it may get unveiled on 31 August, Ashok Chavan said.

Meanwhile while speaking to reporters on Sunday, Bihar CM Nitish Kumar had hinted at the possible expansion of the alliance with a few more regional parties expected to join hands with the alliance.

We will discuss the INDIA alliances strategy for the 2024 Lok Sabha polls in Mumbai. Seat sharing and other issues are also on our agenda for the meeting. A few more political parties will join our coalition. I want to unite the maximum number of parties before the 2024 Lok Sabha polls. I am working in that direction, said Nitish Kumar.

Congress Leader PL Punia said that the names for the Prime Minister post for the INDIA bloc will be decided after the alliance registers victory in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections.

INDIA alliance has decided that the Prime Minister will be decided after coming to power. The elected MPs will choose the PM, the Congress leader said.

INDIA or Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance is a group of 26 opposition parties, including the Congress. The parties have come together to take on the National Democratic Alliance (NDA), which is led by PM Modis Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), and prevent it from winning a third straight term at the Centre in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.

The first meeting of the joint opposition convened in Patna on 23 June and the second meeting was held in Bengaluru on 17-18 July. The third meeting is slated to be in Mumbai on 31 August  1 September.
A shocking incident has come to light where a woman hailing from Jharkhand allegedly traded her minor daughter to live with her boyfriend in Delhi. The 14-year-old girl was reportedly sold to an individual from Muzaffarpur, who is reported to be twice her age, and even married her.

According to sources, the deal involving the young girl was allegedly struck for a sum of two and a half lakhs, although the police is yet to confirm the exact amount.

The distressing episode unfolded around a year and a half ago. However, prompted by a complaint from the girls concerned grandfather and uncle, law enforcement successfully rescued the minor. Consequently, the accused mother, her partner, the minors spouse, and an accomplice involved in the transaction have all been apprehended by the police.

The minors account of the incident has been documented in an official statement submitted to the court. Additionally, a medical evaluation of the young girl has been conducted at Sadar Hospital, with the findings securely sealed.

The case is centered in the Gobarsahi area under the jurisdiction of Sadar police station in Muzaffarpur. The victim was married off to an adult male approximately a year and a half ago. The transaction, organized by a woman from Gobarsahi, led to the girls sale. Subsequently, the girls mother married her boyfriend in Delhi.

Originating from Jharkhand, the girls father had relocated to Muzaffarpur for employment purposes. Residing in a rented accommodation in Gobarsahi with his wife and children, tragedy struck the family when he passed away two years ago. The girl was just 12 years old at the time. Struggling to make ends meet after her husbands demise, the woman became involved in a romantic relationship with a local youth. Although the youth agreed to marry her, he reportedly declined to assume responsibility for her daughter.

Providing insights into the case, ASP Awadhesh Dixit revealed that the girls grandfather had lodged a complaint with the Ratu police station in Ranchi. Consequently, a Zero FIR was filed there, and the case subsequently reached Muzaffarpurs Sadar Police Station. Swiftly responding to the situation, the police conducted a prompt operation that led to the arrest of four individuals, including the accused mother.

The minor has been safely recovered and is currently in protective custody. A case has been registered against the individuals involved under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offenses (POCSO) Act.
Uttar Pradesh has moved from a BIMARU state to the path of a developed state, said Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Tuesday, adding that in the coming years, it will become the growth engine of the country.

Addressing the FICCIs National Executive Committee Meeting (NECM) in Lucknow, Adityanath said, After 1985-86 Uttar Pradesh saw a long period of darkness in terms of development The perception of the nation and world about Uttar Pradesh became very different There was an identity crisis before the youth, businessmen and citizens here Today, under the guidance and leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Uttar Pradesh has managed to emerge from the darkness and from being a BIMARU state towards becoming a developed state

#WATCH | Lucknow, UP: While addressing the National Executive Meeting of FICCI, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath says, After 1985-86 Uttar Pradesh saw a long period of darkness in terms of developmentThe perception of the nation and world about Uttar Pradesh pic.twitter.com/pYy7C0tRXx  ANI UP/Uttarakhand (@ANINewsUP) August 29, 2023

Adityanath said Uttar Pradesh would not be the sixth-largest economy, but the second-largest economy of the country very soon and that the next five years will be important.

In the coming years, UP will become the leading economy of the country and will undertake its role as the Growth Engine of the country, CM Yogi said. UP reached second rank from 14th position in ease of doing business, the UP CM said.

VIDEO | "Uttar Pradesh has moved from BIMARU state (category) to the path of developed state. I can say that it will soon emerge as the second largest economy in the country," says UP CM Yogi Adityanath at FICCIs NECM in Lucknow. pic.twitter.com/vHZSvgmN3t  Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) August 29, 2023

The Chief Minister also noted that the FICCI, the oldest industry association was holding its NECM in Lucknow after 38 years.

"I welcome all of you on behalf of the people of Uttar Pradesh. It's an important moment for me," said Yogi Adityanath.

VIDEO | "38 years later, FICCI is holding its National Executive Committee Meeting in Lucknow. I welcome all of you on behalf of the people of Uttar Pradesh. It's an important moment for me," says UP CM Yogi Adityanath at FICCIs NECM in Lucknow.#FICCINECM pic.twitter.com/sgO6Oyuujl  Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) August 29, 2023

'Organised crime in UP is zero'

The Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister also told that the organised crimes in his state is now zero. "No crimes take place here," he added.

In his address, Adityanath also said, "Infrastructure has made rapid progress in Uttar Pradesh in past six years...The Ganga Expressway way which is under construction is connecting Meerut and Ghaziabad to Prayagraj...Today if anyone wants to come from Meerut to Prayagraj, it will require 16-17 hours...But after completion of Ganga Expressway, this time will reduce to six hours..."

#WATCH | Lucknow, UP: While addressing the National Executive Meeting of FICCI, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath says, "Infrastructure has made rapid progress in Uttar Pradesh in past six years...The Ganga Expressway way which is under construction is connecting pic.twitter.com/6QBnhlgOBX  ANI UP/Uttarakhand (@ANINewsUP) August 29, 2023

The National Executive Committee of FICCI comprises top industrialists of the country, chief executives of multinational corporations, heads of public sector enterprises, financial institutions, banks and management experts. The Executive Committee meets from time to time in different regions and deliberates on national and region-specific issues.

With inputs from agencies
Farmers from different parts of Maharashtra barged into the Mantralaya, the administrative headquarters of the state government Tuesday to demand better compensation for their land.

#WATCH | Farmers inside the Mantralaya building protesting against the Maharashtra govt demanding proper compensation for their land jump on protective net placed on the first floor of the building in Mumbai; police action underway State Minister Dadaji Bhuse is speaking with pic.twitter.com/9Jke4tvVxn  ANI (@ANI) August 29, 2023

In the video, farmers can be seen jumping on a protective net placed on the first floor of the building.

State Minister Dadaji Bhuse is currently holding discussions with the protesting farmers inside the Mantralaya building.

Meanwhile, some of the farmers have been detained and sent to Marine Drive police station.

The chaotic scenes at the Mantralaya come a day after several farmers protested in front of MLA Vinod Agrawals office in Gondia City in Maharashtra on Monday seeking his intervention for the immediate release of pending payment by a cooperative society for procurement of paddy.

The society had allegedly procured 28,059 quintals of paddy worth Rs 5.72 crore from more than 400 farmers but failed to comply with marketing federation norms, the agitators claimed. A police complaint was lodged against 11 directors and four employees of the society but no arrest has been made so far, they said.

With inputs from PTI
A lady teacher of a government school in east Delhis Gandhi Nagar has been accused by parents of students for allegedly using pejorative remarks and religious sensitive language in the class.

The remarks were allegedly made by the teacher last week.

A report by NDTV quoted Hema Gulati, mother of one the students, stating in her complaint that the teacher allegedly made the derogatory remarks on the Kaaba  the sacred stone building at Mecca  and the Quran.

What did the teacher say?

During Partition, you did not go to Pakistan. You stayed in India. You have no contribution in Indias freedom, a complaint quoted the teacher as saying.

Parents demand removal of the teacher

Accusing the woman teacher of the government school in Delhi for using religious words, parents of the pupils have demanded her removal.

Two of my children study in this school  one in Class 7 and the other in Class 4. If the teacher goes unpunished, other teachers will get emboldened and they will speak things like hamare deen ke nahi hain,' news agency ANI quoted a parent, Kausar as saying.

They should be told to just teach and not speak on things about which they have no knowledge There is no use of a teacher who creates differences among students. We demand that the teacher be removed from the school, she should not teach in any school because she will do the same wherever she goes, Kausar added.

Police assures legal action against the teacher

Delhi Police has assured legal action against the teacher and said a case with appropriate sections will be registered against her.

We received a complaint about a school teacher using some religious words before students. We have taken cognisance of the matter. Our Juvenile Welfare Officer, along with counsellors, is counselling, said DCP Shahdara Rohit Meena.

#WATCH | DCP Shahdara Rohit Meena says, We received a complaint about a school teacher using some religious words before students. We have taken cognisance of the matter. Our Juvenile Welfare Officer, along with counsellors, is counselling. Legal action will be taken. There are pic.twitter.com/SisEN1fZ65  ANI (@ANI) August 29, 2023

The senior police officer further said that there were two-three such students, "so we are counselling them all".

Local MLA and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Anil Kumar Bajpai has slammed the teacher for her alleged religious slurs.

"This is absolutely wrong. The responsibility of a teacher is to give good education to the children. The teacher should not pass derogatory comments against any religious or holy place. Such people should be arrested," news agency PTI quoted Bajpai as saying.

The incident in government school in Delhi comes close on the heels of a similar incident in Uttar Pradesh's Muzaffarnagar where a viral video showed a school teacher asking her students to slap a Muslim boy and also making objectionable remarks against the community.

The Muslim child was allegedly being punished for not doing his homework - with UP school teacher Tripta Tyagi asserting that the video had been shot by the student's uncle and did not reveal the incident in its entirety.

She insisted that there was no communal angle to her actions amid furor over a recent student-slapping incident.

Tyagi explained that she had been forced to ask the other students as she was handicapped and, therefore, not able to stand up and reach the student who had not done his assignment.

With inputs from agencies
The day of 23 August was historic for India and the Indians. When the Chandrayaan-3, Indias third lunar exploration mission, was landing on the moons surface, the Indians were watching nervously across the width and breadth of India and around the globe. The moment the Vikram lander landed successfully and made India the first-ever country to land on the moons south pole, we all cheered with happiness. The nation of 140 crore Indians was over the moonliterally and metaphorically.

Chandrayaan-3 is a cost-effective mission with a budget of just 615 crore, or $75 million. The flop movie Adipurush had a similar budget, and films like Barbie and Oppenheimer had more funding than our moon mission. Indias moon mission has a budget of just 1 per cent of the one-year budget of NREGA, one of Indias many social welfare schemes. It prompts us to ponder: Does a modest science budget evoke a sense of pride or cast a shadow of shame?

Research and development in various science, technology, and engineering sectors have faced a budget crunch in India since independence. Most of the innovations that happened post-independence were on a frugal budget. Here, frugality was not a choice but a compulsion under the license-quota-permit raj. But India cant live with this. In an interview, K Sivan, ISROs former chairman, said, We need bigger rockets and systems. We cannot live with frugal engineering alone. We need to have high-power rockets and high-end technology.

The triumphs of Mangalyaan and Chandrayaan-3 underscore the capacity of Indias scientific community to innovate and excel on a global stage. With increased financial backing, we might have already achieved manned space missions. However, within a democratic republic where welfare remains a paramount concern, diverting more government funds towards science and technology could face resistance, particularly when it involves reducing the budgets of social welfare programs, as seen after the 2023 budget announcement. This contrast leaves the space sector with two viable pathways: privatisation or international collaboration.

Chandrayaan-1 notably uncovered the presence of water in ice form on the moons surface, opening doors to further exploration of its utility. Converting moon water into fuel presents the prospect of cost-effective lunar missions in the future. Yet, capital investment is crucial for such research. In a nation abounding with brilliant scientists and engineers, the responsibility to fund these endeavours should shift towards the private sector, whereby investing companies could reap profits. However, the substantial costs involved demand a collective effort, necessitating international cooperation for mutual advantage.

The present space sector in India is synonymous with the ISRO and its suppliers and vendors. Privatisation will make the space sector cost-competitive and create more jobs locally. For example, imagine Skyroot Aerospace, which launched the maiden flight of Indias first privately built rocket, Vikram-S, in November 2022, launching satellites of other countries from Sriharikota. Envision a space tourism venture catering to Indian billionaires thirst for adventure among the stars or the realisation of an entirely indigenous navigation system. This is the economic landscape we must cultivate.

Despite Indias notable achievements, its share of the global space economy stands at a modest 2-3 per cent, whereas China and the US have more than 30 per cent share. Failing to translate our scientific strides into economic gains would be a missed opportunity. India possesses a latent potential where the sky, metaphorically speaking, is not the limit.

To be fair, the current government has laid the privatisation card on the table for the space sector. Initiatives like granting private players access to ISROs infrastructure and formulating the Indian Space Policy in 2023 reflect a well-intentioned effort. However, progress has encountered delayssuch as the Indian Space Policy notificationand legislative roadblocks, exemplified by the fate of the Draft Space Activity bill introduced in 2017, which lapsed in 2019 with the outgoing Lok Sabha. This perpetual tardiness exacts a toll on Indias space endeavours.

In conclusion, while Chandrayaan-3s accomplishment is a commendable stride for India, its financial constraints make a compelling case for liberalising the space sector. The earlier we do, the more beneficial it is for India.

The reviewer is an independent columnist who writes on international relations, and socio-political affairs. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely that of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstposts views.

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When Narendra Modi first took oath of office as prime minister, he unveiled an intrepid foreign policy doctrine, Indias Neighbourhood-First Policy, which by all accounts is a first of its kind.

The policy was a clear break from the past. Most observers were of the opinion that the grouse which Indias smaller neighbours were harbouring against its colossal big brother would be a thing of the past.

The presence of the heads of states from all the neighbouring countries during Modis swearing-in ceremony had all the makings of a magnanimous elder that would not only put its overbearing attitude towards its smaller neighbours on the back burner but would actually step up new vistas that would permit Indias giantism to treat its neighbours as equals.

But the last nine years have not quite translated the ambitious project into reality. It is unfortunate, but for one reason or the other, alienation with most of Indias neighbours only grew. Nepal and Bangladesh were being ambivalent and even Bhutan (presumably with New Delhis nod) entered into a Three-Step Roadmap with China. The Chinese had already made robust inroads into Sri Lanka and less said the better about the Peoples Republics all-weather relationship with Pakistan and even Afghanistan after the latters second Talibanisation.

It is for the mandarins of South Block, primarily the members of the Indian Foreign Service to put their heads together and embark on a course correction exercise and boldly anvil Modis Neighbourhood First Policy.

This column will, however, devote itself to the much-needed military to military contact between India and some of its important neighbours.

A beginning was made by instituting joint military exercises with some of Indias neighbours. But such exercises remained confined to Op Sampriti between India-Bangladesh and Op Hand-in-Hand with China.

India already has a military presence in Bhutan by way of the IMTRAT and in the past senior personages from Indian officialdom had served as the National Security Adviser of the Maldives.

But apart from undertaking sundry joint operations against Indian insurgent groups in Myanmar, joint military exercises of the sort that were witnessed with primarily Bangladesh have not seen the light of day with countries such as Myanmar or Sri Lanka.

Indeed, Operation Sampriti (when the Indian army and the Bangladesh army went through the paces in tandem) was an unqualified success. But it is wondered as to why more such exercises are no longer taking place.

A backgrounder is in order at this juncture.

When Sheikh Hasinas government in Dhaka reciprocated in almost full measure to Indian overtures by apprehending and repatriating important Indian insurgent leaders billeting in her country, the doors opened not only for improved bilateral cooperation, but also for a basis that could present itself as a substratum for proximate military ties.

Indeed, India had already set it as an agenda during the caretaker regime period when the Bangladesh army virtually governed the country, and the visit of the then Bangladesh army chief, Gen Moeen U Ahmed, to India during the time was more than an occasion when his Indian counterpart presented six thoroughbreds to the neighbouring countrys army.

The military-to-military exchange was fine-tuned thereafter, and subsequent army chiefs of both India and Bangladesh visited each others country. The visit of the then Indian army chief, Gen VK Singh, who took part in the 1971 Bangladesh liberation war, deepened military ties between the two neighbours, as did the one by his counterpart Gen Md. Abdul Mubeen.

Gen Singh must be singled out for the special efforts he had made to further military-to-military ties with Bangladesh even during his tenure as the general officer commanding-in-chief of the Kolkata based Eastern Command of the Indian Army.

Earlier, the former Bangladesh army chief, Gen. Moeen had agreed to finally honour the Indian army soldiers who had lost their lives during the Liberation war. Indeed, such had been the animosity between the two countries since 1975  when Sheikh Mujib-ur-Rahman was assassinated  that not only was mention of any Indian support to the Bangladeshi freedom fighters expunged from the pages of Bangladeshs history, but the countrys armed forces used and termed India as Wolf-Land, a prototype of the enemy during their military exercises.

The second phase of Op Sampriti that was launched in north-eastern Sylhet on 9 October 2011 was a happy departure from the time when ill-feeling marked both the countries and their armed forces. Designed as a 14-day joint exercise, Special Forces of India and Bangladesh simulated terrorism and insurgency scenarios and operationalised counter measures that tested each others expertise and possible cooperative skills.

The first phase of Op Sampriti was undertaken on 1-4 November 2010 in Assams Jorhat, the regional hub of Indias elite 21 Para Battalion, the same force that took part in Op Sampriti II.

Joint exercises between the two militaries had been on the anvil for quite some time. But these were called off at the eleventh hour; perhaps due to the hostility that stemmed from a section of Bangladeshs security establishments close ties with Indian insurgent groups in the country, a relationship that events such as the unravelling of the conspiracy of 2 April 2004 Chittagong arms haul has now established.

At the time, the possibility of joint CT/CI exercise seemed remote: indeed (as aforesaid), an influential section of the Bangladesh army was aiding anti-India forces even as the Indian security establishment was countering such forces. The two armies were occupied in cross-purpose engagements, and cooperation was not a word in Indo-Bangla lexicon. It would also be of pertinence to note that the Bangladesh army had been engaging in joint exercises with the Chinese army since long, but none had taken place with India, the country that had ably aided its liberation from Pakistan. Most of the Bangladesh armys armaments, too, were acquired from China. The improved relation after Sheikh Hasinas return saw an opening up with Bangladesh jettisoning the wastes of the past and cementing an enduring alliance with its eastern neighbour.

India and Bangladesh share a common past. Correct policy and the will of the majority of Bangladeshs populace have provided both the country with a unique opportunity. Bangladesh cannot ignore a country that abuts it on three sides. Strategically even its southern mouth faces a superior power in Indias navy. It is, therefore, only rational that geography and commonality of both countries dilemmas and agenda should bring them together.

Bangladesh cannot wish away its most proximate neighbour. While its foreign policy would have to be constructed by its own concerns, the aspects that it would have to take into consideration is: a) sheer proximity with India; b) the identicalness of culture with a country that it was once a part of; c) the ease with which that can translate into unadulterated friendship; d) the midwife role that India played in its birth; and, e) the similarity of concerns, a la Islamist terrorism.

India, on its part, must revisit its sub-continental Neighbourhood First Policy and recast the policy towards its neighbours in light of its strategic concerns. It must set an agenda that defeats what has been termed as the Chinese string of pearls.

While the agendas of China and Pakistan would need a different set of counter measures, the ones for Nepal, Sri Lanka, Maldives, Bhutan, and particularly Bangladesh (a country that had experienced a great turn-around after the affability of 1971) would have to be calibrated with both charity and with an eye to Indias strategic concerns. An appropriate beginning has been made with Bangladesh ever since Hasina returned to power. Indeed, Op Sampriti  in its present theme  is perhaps more emblematic, a symbol that not only probes each others body language, but sends out signals to onlookers. It also has the ingredients that can break the barrier of us-and-them, and usher in a bonhomie that should characterise neighbours that are poised to play important buddy-roles in the region.

But India should decisively engage the military of Myanmar, especially as they are presently in the seat of power in Naypyidaw. Indeed, Indias Act East policy will never Go East unless there is military-diplomacy between the two countries in place.

The next Indian envoy to Naypyidaw can be a former Indian army commander with a knowledge of Myanmar. The present atmospherics in Myanmar necessitates unorthodox methods and it is important at this juncture to have not only military to military ties by way of joint exercises underway (and ones that would in togetherness wipe out the Indian insurgents billeted in Myanmars Sagaing Division), but usher in a comfort level by way of freshly cast military-diplomacy.

The exercises should be initially directed towards demolition of the Indian insurgents in Sagaing Division and severance of the unholy alliance which certain Valley-Based Indian Insurgent Groups have gotten into with the Myanmar army. This should be followed up with joint exercises by both the countries air force and the navy, especially the latter, given that the Andaman Sea region and the abutting sea lanes would once again be experiencing non-traditional piracy of the Somalian variety as well as extra-regional maritime ingress.

The joint exercises must translate into real time military cooperation not only against ethnic insurgents, but Islamist terror in each others borderlands. After all, the Rohingya problem criss-crosses and overlaps Bangladesh, India and Myanmar.

Indian and Bangladesh armies, for instance, can engage terror modules in the North East, especially in areas in Assams districts of Dhubri and Karimganj. The run-up to such collaborative affair must be preceded with Myanmars and Bangladesh armys visitation and training alongside Indian counterparts in places such as Counter Insurgency and Jungle Warfare School in Mizorams Vairengte where the armies of the two countries can witness and learn the art of rural and urban guerrilla warfare that the Indian army has been able to perfect.

The time has come for the military to don the diplomats hat. The atmospherics of the present so demand. It would be, therefore, New Delhis while to test such an idiom. It could well turn out to be the preferred language of the Neighbourhood-First Policy.

The author is a conflict theorist and bestselling author. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely that of the author. They do not necessarily reflect News18s views.

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The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) just announced that it will soon transfer its Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV) technology to the private sector that will be able to provide on-demand services to put satellites weighing up to 500 kg in a low-earth orbit. The small satellites (smallsat) have begun to augment larger systems and, in some cases, replace them. Governments and commercial customers use them for their flexibility, speed of development, resiliency, low cost, and tolerance of risk. Advances in micro-electronics have enabled small spacecraft to maintain the performance characteristics of modern spacecraft in unbelievably small packages. These spacecraft are inexpensive to build, test, and launch, and can enable large constellations of 1000-plus satellites. Large constellations will provide continuous imagery to users in defence, agriculture, weather, business intelligence, forestry, and disaster recovery. It is important to understand what constitutes smallsats, their advantages and where India is.

What are Smallsats?

The smallsat is of low mass and size, usually under 500 kg. They are further sub-classifications by mass. Smallsats are cheaper to build and use low thrust less-expensive launch vehicles. They can be mass-produced and launched in larger numbers. Smallsats in large numbers are often more useful than fewer larger satellites. They are ideal for constellations for low-data rate communications. They are useful for in-orbit inspection of larger satellites; university-related research; for testing or qualifying new hardware before using it on a more expensive spacecraft. Technical challenges of the small satellites could be a lack of sufficient power storage or room for a propulsion system. Many start-ups have come into the small satellite space.

Satellite classification by mass



Recent Smallsat Statistics

The nanosatellite and microsatellite, especially 150 kg segments have been growing rapidly in recent years. As per Bryce Tech, 95 per cent of spacecraft launched in 2022 were smallsats. Around 54 per cent of total up-mass was by smallsats. In 2022 Starlink and OneWeb launched 1,736 smallsats compared to 568 by all others. While 87 per cent of smallsats were in the mini and micro categories, 80 per cent of the smallsats launched in 2022 were for communications, and 10 per cent for remote sensing, and 7 per cent for technology development. 88 per cent of smallsats were owned by five operators, SpaceX (3570), Planet (529), OneWeb (504), Spire Globe (151), and Swarm Technologies (173). 74 per cent of smallsats were owned by the US, 8 per cent UK, and 6 per cent by China. India had a total of 29 and was in the 13th position by smallsat numbers. India was No.5 in pure government smallsats.

Elon Musks SpaceX launched 61 orbital missions in 2022, nearly doubling its previous single-year record of 31 set in 2021. 34 of SpaceXs launches were primarily to build the Starlink mega constellation, which consists of more than 3,300 operational satellites (and counting). In 2022, the number of small satellites launched increased by around 32.2 per cent over the previous year. An estimated 18,500 smallsats are predicted to be launched between 2022 and 2031.

ISROs Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV)

Although smallsats have traditionally been launched as secondary payloads on larger launch vehicles, now many small satellite launch vehicles are being developed to cater for the unique orbital and launch-timing requirements of smallsats. In August 2022, ISRO launched its developmental Small Satellite Launch Vehicle SSLV-D1 to cater for the launch of smallsats up to 500 kg to Low Earth Orbit (LEO) on a launch-on-demand basis.

In February 2023, SSLV D-2, configured with three solid stages and having a lift-off mass of 120-tonne was launched to carry EOS-07, a 153.6 kg earth observation satellite, Janus-1, a technology demonstration satellite weighing 10.2 kg belonging to ANTARIS, USA; and AzaadiSAT-2, an 8.8 kg satellite realised by Space Kidz India. India will now commercialise the SSLVs through the industry on a demand basis. There are many global and Indian private companies in the smallsat launch space.

Globally microsatellite launch vehicles are being developed to deliver 10 to 45 kg payload into a 250/450 km orbit. The aim is to drive down the launch costs of smallsats to as low as $7,000/kg. Fighter aircraft of the Su-30 MKI class could also be converted to launch smallsats from high altitudes.

CubeSat

A CubeSat is a miniaturized satellite of around 10 cm cubes, weighing less than 2 kg, and often uses commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) electronic components and structure. As of May 2023, more than 2,105 CubeSats have been launched. Typically they have been used for technology development for smallsats, Earth observation, amateur radio, and biological research. As part of the MarCO mission, two CubeSats were launched towards Mars in May 2018.

Nanosatellite and Satellite Swarm

Nanosatellite may be launched individually, or multiple in what they call a satellite swarm. Some designs require a larger mother satellite for communication with ground controllers, or for launching and docking with nanosatellites. In January 2023 there were 2,138 Nanosats. Earth-imaging with significantly increased revisit can be done at a much lower cost. Countries are working on larger spacecraft specifically designed to deliver swarms of nanosats to trajectories that are beyond Earths orbit for applications such as exploring distant asteroids. Several start-ups have been working to develop Nanosatellite Launch Vehicles (NLV).

ISRO Small Satellites

The Indian Mini Satellite -1 (IMS-1) bus of 100 kg class (payload 30 kg) was developed by ISRO and first mission launched in 2008. Youthsat was the second mission in 2011. IMS-2 Bus is a 400 kg class (200 kg payload). The first mission of IMS-2 (SARAL) was aboard PSLV-C37 which carried two ISRO Nano Satellites, INS-1A and INS-1B, in 2017. INS-1C was launched in 2018. Many more are being developed by the private sector.

Picosatellites

Multiple picosatellites are also expected to work together in a swarm. Picosatellites are emerging as a new alternative for do-it-yourself kit-builders. These are commercially available in the 0.1 to 1 kg range. Launch opportunities are now available for $12,000 to $18,000 for sub-1 kg picosat payloads that are approximately the size of a soda can.

Femto Satellites

These satellites are useful for radio relays. The first such was launched in 2011. A hundred Femto satellites, made of composite material, measuring 4x4x4cm, designed and developed by 1,000 students from across India were launched in February 2021 via a high-altitude scientific balloon. The satellites were equipped with sensors to study areas like ozone, cosmic rays, carbon dioxide and humidity.

Indian private technology start-ups

Many emerging private technology start-ups provide opportunities for the Indian armed services to leverage smallsats. The five Indian start-ups to watch in 2023 are Skyroot Aerospace, Pixxel, Agnikul Cosmos, Dhruva Space and Bellatrix Aerospace. There are many other players. Their work ranges from electro-optical and communications satellite systems to launch vehicle technology. Indian military leadership, government directives and authorisation have begun encouraging these space start-ups. Indian space technology unicorns will contribute to the development of their SSLVs, thereby bringing down launch costs.

Technical challenges for small small

Small satellites usually require innovative propulsion, attitude control, and communication and computation systems. Most micro/nanosats have to use electric propulsion, compressed gas, vaporizable liquids such as butane or carbon dioxide or other innovative propulsion systems that are simple, cheap and scalable. Smallsats have to use miniaturised conventional communications in UHF, VHF, S-band and X-band. Nano/micro satellites may lack the power supply or mass for large radio transponders. Innovative laser receivers, antenna arrays and satellite-to-satellite communication networks are used by them. Electronics need to be space hardened for vacuum, microgravity, thermal extremes, and radiation exposure.

Orbital collision safety

Orbital debris could be as small as tiny flecks of paint or bits of spacecraft metal. Large debris could be a defunct satellite. Debris larger than one centimetre can be dangerous. The space junk is moving at 7-8 kilometres per second, or 28,000 kilometres per hour, almost seven times faster than a bullet. If moving towards each other, the closure speed would be much higher. At those speeds, even a tiny piece of debris can cause a lot of damage. As per NASA, about 13,000 known objects are bigger than 10 centimetres in diameter. The particles between one and 10 cm in diameter are approximately 500,000. Those smaller than 1 centimetre exceeds 100 million. Some satellites do carry out risk mitigation manoeuvres to avoid a close approach with another satellite. Small satellites have fewer means for manoeuvre.

Defence applications smallsats

The smallsats are important for communications, imagery, reconnaissance and surveillance. Though increasing spacecraft density in LEO makes large constellations risky, they are operationally required. The armed forces do use secure civil constellations. Smallsat development cycles are shorter and offer responsive capability for military contingencies. India too is pursuing limited-area Smallsat constellations. Smallsats could meet the militarys C4ISR requirements. Indias Defence Innovation Unit facilitates interaction between the armed services and space technology start-ups. A small satellite constellation can be rapidly launched using ISROs SSLV.

Smallsats provide redundancy, flexibility, and survivability to military planners, in terms of numbers and capabilities. Smallsats are not easy to destroy. Smallsats are more easily replaceable at the end of life, or if destroyed by military action.

Chinese smallsat capability

China is already a far more formidable space military player. China already has a constellation of satellites as part of the Yaogan series (not smallsat), which is a network of electro-optical, imagery intelligence (IMINT), synthetic aperture radar (SAR) satellites and electronic intelligence satellites (ELINT). These satellites reportedly can visualise and direct missile attacks against fixed Indian targets, such as airbases and advanced landing grounds. The Yaogan satellites also support constant surveillance and track movements across the South China Sea, Western Pacific and Indian Ocean. China has a large number of space start-ups. China has many civilian satellites used for military purposes. China Academy of Space Technology (CAST) plant at Tianjin, can produce more than 200 satellites per year, and the China Aerospace Science and Industry Corporation (CASIC) factory in Wuhan can manufacture 240 smallsats each year.

Smallsats and Indian armed forces

Smallsats are crucial for the Indian armed forces, both as sensors and for networked operations. India needs to increase many more satellites to improve revisit rates for continuous intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance (ISR), and communications. Space has also to be leveraged for war-fighting. Air and space operations are central to the conduct of modern warfare. IAFs doctrine 2022 uses the unitary phrase aerospace. The mountainous border with China puts limitations on ground-based sensors. UAVs have limited range and coverage. The larger Indian GSAT-7 series of satellites could be vulnerable in wartime. The loss of a large satellite could seriously impair military operations. The GSAT-7A supports IAFs AFNet and IACCS. This can be greatly bolstered with the smallsats, and add redundancy. Smallsats will increasingly meet the communications requirements of UAVs.

The armed forces need smallsats for Ka-band and Ku-band communications, and jam-resistant relays. LEO-based smallsats will also provide the armed services with greater battle-space awareness and enable more integrated operations. Even the Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System, or NavIC needs to be supplemented with smallsats in LEO. Indias SSLV can carry a 500-kg payload to LEO and a 300-kg to SSO. The wide swath of GEO satellites is inadequate for IMINT and ELINT-related tasks. LEO constellations can provide persistent ISR coverage. Smallsats could have augmented ISR capability during incidents like Galwan in Ladakh. Indian armed services also need an in-depth space architecture.

Way ahead

In coming years, constellations composed of large numbers of small, less complex, and less costly satellites are likely to become progressively more cost-effective relative to constellations made up of small numbers of large, more complex, and more expensive satellites.

On the manufacturing side, mass production of mega-constellations has begun meeting deadlines set by spectrum licensing authorities. Enabling components such as electric propulsion and deployable antennas to be tested before commercialization will provide more agility to their customers. The time for India to launch small in big numbers is now, lest it gets left behind.

The writer is Director General, Centre for Air Power Studies. Views expressed are personal. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely that of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstposts views.

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The timing was perfect from an Orwellian perspective. India was literally on the moon when a news item appeared cautioning the country of another Soros-ian strike  on the lines of the Hindenburg assault on a prominent corporate house in March this year. As per a PTI report, India should be prepared for Hindenburg 2.0 as George Soros-backed Organized Crime and Corruption Reporting Project (OCCRP) is reportedly planning to come up with another expose, targeting other corporate houses in the country.

OCCRP is a global network of investigative journalists that exposes crime and corruption so the public can hold power to account, says the description on its website. The body is being funded among others by Soros Open Society Foundations (OSF), whose distaste, if not disregard, for democratic India in general and Narendra Modi in particular is not quite unfamiliar.

Soros has never concealed his loathing for Modis India. The Hungarian-born American billionaire, in fact, had defended the Hindenburg report accusing how Modi and business tycoon Gautam Adani are close allies. He added, Adani Enterprises tried to raise funds in the stock market but failedModi will have to answer on Adani in Parliament. This will significantly weaken Modis stranglehold on Indias federal government. I expect a democratic revival in India I could be foolish, but I think democracy will flourish again.

The Soros-ian idea of democracy is Orwellian in nature: Here war is peace. Freedom is slavery. Ignorance is strength.

And dictatorship is democracy! Clearly, things didnt go as per the Soros-ian script despite the Hindenburg report causing ripples across the country  and abroad. On the contrary, in the past few months, India has not only come out stronger, but also it is being accepted as the only bright spot in the global economy, especially at a time when it gears up to host a G20 summit in New Delhi. India has never been so self-assured and sure-footed in conducting itself globally. To add insult to injury, Prime Minister Modi has declared on the floor of Parliament in the just-concluded monsoon session that in his third term, India will become the third-largest economy in the world!

Thus comes the spectre of Hindenburg 2.0.

Soros, largely influenced by the American Deep States inherent and institutionalised distrust for India, seems to be working overtime to turn this country into a failed democracy. As seen with OSFs reported involvement with anti-CAA and anti-farm law protests  and also with a senior OSF personnel participating enthusiastically in Rahul Gandhis recent Bharat Jodo Yatra  a strategy seems to be in place to unleash chaos, violence and despair in India, on the lines of a toolkit created by communist theoretician Jan Kozak that called for exertion of pressure for radical change from the upper levels of government and from provocateurs in the streets. Kozak termed this pressure from above and below.

One way to exert pressure from below, as Kozak explained, was to fill the streets with rioters, strikers and protesters. As for pressure from above, there are reasons to believe that Soros OSF, with its extended, hidden and dubious arms, are subverting top global think tanks and educational institutions such as Harvard (about which Rajiv Malhotra and Vijaya Viswanathan write in detail in Snakes in the Ganga) and London School of Economics (where a top professor like Mukulika Banerjee is accused of pushing vitriolic anti-India narrative on campus), where children of the rich and powerful Indians study in a substantial number.

The idea is to re-orient Indias elite and push them to exert pressure from above.

Soros is dangerous because he wears many masks. In an interview for a 1995 New Yorker profile, he conceded that the subversive mission of the OSF required him to wear a variety of masks. I would say one thing in one country, and another thing in another country, he said with laughter. This two-faced nature was evident when he first denied any hands in the November 2003 uprising that toppled Georgian President Eduard Shevardnadze, but a few months later he told the Los Angeles Times: Im delighted by what happened in Georgia, and I take great pride in having contributed to it.

Author Rachel Ehrenfeld, in The Soros Agenda (2023), accuses Soros of spending a lot of time discussing the need for transparency and openness while running one of the worlds most secretive and powerful investing firms.

To buttress her claim, she explains how in 2016, Tranparify rated Soros OSF as highly opaque and the least transparent of 200 think tanks in 47 countries worldwide that were ranked. Soros once described the influence of large cash donations in politics as a fundamental crisis in democratic self-government. This, however, did not stop him from channeling his political philanthropy through an intricate, multilayered web that would put to shame the elusive Darwins bark spider (Caerostris darwini), creator of the largest known orb webs, she adds.

Hypocrisy and double standards come naturally to him. When he is accused of orchestrating the 1990s collapse of the Asian market, he first denies it, then takes refuge in what has been a common refrain for him  that it wouldve happened even if he wasnt there  and, finally defending his role: Im basically there to make money. I cannot and do not look at the social consequences of what I do. And once he makes money  a lot of money  through the hidden, dirty hands of capitalism, he questions the market system itself: I now fear that the untrammeled intensification of laissez-faire capitalism and the spread of market values into all areas of life is endangering our open and democratic society, Soros writes in the Atlantic. The main enemy of open society, I believe, is no longer the communist but the capitalist threat.

Now thats called having the cake and eating it too  George Soros style!

The biggest Soros-ian lie, however, has been his victimhood story vis-a-vis Nazis. Ehrenfeld writes in The Soros Agenda, Much has been written about Soros past as a survivor of the German occupation of Hungary during World War II and the Soviet occupation that followed. He uses those experiences as his leading credential to justify meddling in political and social affairs as he sees fit.

However, the fact is Soros was a beneficiary of Nazi generosity. He was 14, when he had accompanied a Nazi Hungarian official at the Ministry of Agriculture named Baumbach, who was bribed by Soros father to keep the teen at his apartment and present him as his godson. Soros accompanied Baumbach as the official identified Jewish property for confiscation by the Nazis. I was only a spectator, Soros would defend his role in an interview with Steve Kroft on CBSs 60 Minutes in 1994.

What makes him utterly dangerous is his illiberal, undemocratic nature. In 2020, Soros announced at the World Economic Forum in Davos his most ambitious initiative  the Open Society University Network (OSUN). He pledged $1 billion to create what the world really needs  a global platform for teaching and research that existing universities all over the world would be able to join, among other things, to fight dictators and would-be dictators. When asked how the scholars at OSUN would identify would-be dictators, Soros was quick to retort, as quoted by Ehrenfeld: A perfect way to tell a dictator or a would-be dictator is if he identifies me as an enemy.

The truth is that it is this megalomaniac billionaire with dubious democratic, capitalistic credentials and Nazi connections who is the biggest threat to democracy worldwide, including in India. He publicly calls out his enemies, often holding them to ransom. The worlds largest democracy is on that list currently. Soros has already declared a war on India under Prime Minister Modi, calling it a sham democracy.

India should be prepared for a series of Hindenburgs and other related assaults. The attack will continue while there is an innate anti-India ecosystem in the West and dirty Chinese money flushing Soros coffers. The nihilistic Soros-ian philosophy is a 21st century avatar of the Orwellian world order. The battle lines have just been drawn.

Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely that of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstposts views.

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The Lok Sabha elections are likely to be brought forward as the BJP is apprehensive that with time it will suffer more losses because of the opposition unity, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar said on Tuesday, backing a similar claim made recently by West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee.

Banerjee on Monday said that she was afraid that the Lok Sabha elections could be held in December this year, or in January.

On being asked about the statement, Kumar told reporters, I have been saying it for the last seven-eight months that the NDA government at the Centre might go in for early Lok Sabha polls, fearing more losses for the BJP because of opposition unity.

Therefore, all opposition parties must come together to defeat the BJP in the Lok Sabha polls. I am once again repeating that I have no desire for myself, I have no personal ambitions. My only wish is to unite the maximum number of parties (opposed to the BJP) before the elections, he added.

Kumar, who recently said that more parties are likely to join opposition coalition I.N.D.I.A, declined to divulge further details.

We have taken initiatives for unity among the opposition parties. The opposition coalition I.N.D.I.A. will further strengthen after the Mumbai meeting on August 31 and September 1, he said.

The Bihar chief minister was speaking to reporters after inaugurating the new campus of the Nalanda Open University. Kumar said the exercise for the cast survey has been completed, and it will soon be published.

The exercise has been completed. Now, the data is being compiled and it will soon be published. The final data will enable the government to work for the development of various sections of society, including those who are deprived. This will help us to know which areas require development. Let the detailed data be published, I am sure that other states will also follow it, he said.

He said the decision to hold the caste-based survey was unanimous, and taken by the leaders of all political parties, including the BJP.

Now, I am not paying any attention to what they are saying. Why is the Centre maintaining silence over the delay in the census? The exercise should have been completed in 2021. They (BJP leaders) should say something about it, he said.
Taking potshots at his former ally Bihar chief minister Nitish Kumar, Prashant Kishor Tuesday said the former had no chance at becoming the convener of the I.N.D.I.A alliance since he had nothing neither the party nor his image.

The sarcastic comments from the pollster came ahead of the next meeting of the I.N.D.I.A alliance slated to take place in Mumbai starting August 31 to possibly chalk out a seat-sharing formula.

As far as the efforts by Nitish Kumar are concerned, his own condition is so bad that there is no guarantee of his foothold in his own state. What can he do for Opposition unity at the national level? Kishor said.

Even if you look at the order, Kishor added, Congress is the largest Opposition party, TMC comes next followed by DMK  they have won their entire state and have 20-25 MPs. They can claim to win their state. Nitish Kumar has nothing  neither the party nor his image. On what basis can he be made (the convener of INDIA)?

Earlier, the Bihar chief minister had said that the bloc was meeting to finalise strategies for the upcoming 2024 Lok Sabha elections.

Issues such as seat-sharing will be discussed and several other agendas will be finalized. A few more political parties will join our coalition. I wish to unite the maximum number of parties before the 2024 Lok Sabha polls. I am working in that direction I have no desire for myself, Nitish Kumar had said.
It seems that Apple has already finished the production of the first lot of its upcoming iPhone 15 Ultra devices. Prominent supply chain analyst Ming Chi Kuo, known for his reliable insights, has indicated that Apples upcoming iPhone 15 Pro Max is set to initiate mass shipments this week, even in the face of concerns over supply chain issues.

This announcement from Kuo contrasts with recent reports that have suggested delays in production. Kuos outlook is also optimistic when it comes to unit shipments, bucking the trend of other analysts who have recently revised their forecasts downward.

Kuo emphasizes, There has been market concern that supply chain challenges might lead to further reductions in iPhone 15 shipments (an estimate of 80 million units compared to conservative projections of 7080 million units), particularly with regards to the iPhone 15 Pro Max and its potential delay.

However, Kuo asserts that the iPhone 15 Pro Max will indeed commence mass shipments during the current week, and Apple is concurrently increasing shipments of previous iPhone models.

Just last week, a significant equity analyst note indicated a potential three to four-week delay for the iPhone 15 Pro Max in comparison to other models.

Analysts like Jeff Pu and Mizuho, both of whome have tempered their iPhone 15 unit shipment forecasts. Pus estimates went from 83 million units to 77 million, while Mizuho scaled down its production projection from 84 million to 73 million units.

In contrast, Kuo remains steadfast in his expectation of 80 million iPhone 15 units being shipped, and he anticipates a grand total of 250 million iPhone shipments throughout 2024. Kuo even suggests that Apple could outpace Samsung in terms of units shipped by the end of 2023.

Kuo explains, Samsungs projected smartphone shipments for this year have been revised to 220 million units. Should Apple maintain the iPhone orders for the second half of 2024 as they are, the iPhone shipments are likely to reach 220225 million units in 2023, surpassing Samsung to become the worlds largest smartphone brand.

Kuo further envisions Apple maintaining its lead over Samsung in 2024.

Recent reports have also indicated that Apple is making adjustments to the colour options for the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max models. The traditional gold option is being replaced with a Titan Gray colour, featuring the new titanium frame. Meanwhile, the unique Deep Purple colour will make way for a new dark blue alternative.

As anticipation mounts, Apple is anticipated to unveil its iPhone 15 lineup on September 12. The official confirmation of this date is expected sometime between August 29 and September 5.
Imagine a scene where the people controlling the most powerful technology in the world, one that has the potential to destroy the whole world, meet in a secret lair like supervillains. Well, something akin to that is going to take place soon.

Majority Leader of the US Senate, Chuck Schumer, is set to convene a gathering of prominent figures from the tech industry, specifically those who work with AI.

Among those who are going to attend, are Elon Musk, CEO of Tesla, and xAI Mark Zuckerberg, CEO of Meta Platforms and Sundar Pichai, CEO of Alphabet. Sam Altman, the CEO of OpenAI and the poster boy for ChatGPT, and AI for the general public, will also be in attendance. And so will Satya Nadella of Microsoft.

This exclusive event, centred around artificial intelligence, is scheduled for September 13, as reported by Axios, citing informed sources.

The forum will be held behind closed doors and is expected to last for at least two to three hours.

Back in June, Schumer hinted at the upcoming forum, expressing its intention to establish a fresh framework for AI-related policies. He remarked, We are seeking the participation of the most exceptional individuals: leading AI developers, executives, researchers, advocates, community leaders, labour representatives, and national security experts. All of them will converge in a single setting, condensing years worth of work into a span of a few months.

These forward-thinking chief executives stand as representatives of enterprises that have significantly influenced the trajectory of AI development. Beyond these CEOs, the event will also host a varied spectrum of AI authorities, including scientists, activists and advocates both for and against the use and development of AI, and policy shapers. This gathering of intellectual trailblazers shows the profound significance of AI in shaping our modern existence.

Although we cant ignore the clear advantages of AI, its crucial to recognize and address the potential downsides. Manipulated content like deepfakes, which are altered videos and audio clips, can seriously undermine our trust in information. But, the conversations among these prominent CEOs and experts are anticipated to centre on creating protective measures to combat such misleading tactics.

The emergence of autonomous weaponry, capable of functioning without human involvement, introduces an additional ethical dilemma. The forthcoming event is projected to deeply explore methods for ethical AI management and supervision, aiming to curb the inappropriate use of AI technologies.

In such a scenario, the US government cannot be seen colluding with the very people that need to regulate AI and ensure that its development is human-centric, and not one that just focuses on generating revenue
With just a few days to go for the G20 Summit in New Delhi, White House press secretary Karine Jean Pierre laid down US President Joe Bidens agenda for the meeting which will include the Russia-Ukraine war and climate change, among other things.

President Biden will reaffirm the US commitment to the G20 as the premier forum of economic cooperation globally, Pierre said.

She added, Hell discuss a range of joint efforts to tackle global issues, from the clean energy transition and combating climate change to mitigating the economic and social impacts of Russias war in Ukraine, to increasing the capacity of the multilateral development banks to better fight poverty and take on the significant transnational challenges that are afflicting countries across the world.

Biden will travel to India on September 7 to attend the G20 Summit in the national capital.

An official statement by the White House dated August 22 said that the US President will commend Prime Minister Narendra Modis G20 leadership and reaffirm Americas commitment to the G20. The US will host the G20 Summit in 2026.

The G20 Summit in New Delhi will take place on 9 and 10 September.
At least 183 people have been killed since July in clashes in Ethiopias Amhara region, the United Nations said Tuesday as it appealed for the killings, violence and rights abuses to end.

Tension in the northern region ratcheted up this year after the end of a devastating war in the neighbouring region of Tigray that also drew in fighters from Amhara.

We are very concerned by the deteriorating human rights situation in some regions of Ethiopia, UN Human Rights Office spokeswoman Marta Hurtado told reporters in Geneva.

In Amhara region, following a flare-up in clashes between the Ethiopian military and the regional Fano militia, and the declaration of a state of emergency on August 4, the situation worsened considerably.

At least 183 people have been killed in clashes since July, according to information gathered by the UN Human Rights Office.

Tension in the northern region ratcheted up this year after the end of a devastating war in neighbouring Tigray that also drew in fighters from Amhara.

In April the federal government announced it was dismantling regional forces across the country.

The move triggered protests by Amhara nationalists who said it would weaken their region.

Clashes erupted in early July between the national army and local fighters known as Fano, prompting the authorities in Addis Ababa on 4 August to declare a six-month state of emergency.

The status gives the authorities broad powers to arrest suspects without a court order, impose curfews and ban public gatherings, Hurtado said.

We have received reports that more than 1,000 people have been arrested across Ethiopia under this law. Many of those detained were reported to be young people of Amhara ethnic origin suspected of being Fano supporters, she said.

Since early August, mass house-to-house searches have reportedly been taking place.

We call on the authorities to stop mass arrests, ensure that any deprivation of liberty is judicially reviewed, and release those arbitrarily detained.

She added: We call on all actors to stop killings, other violations and abuses.
In a major relief for Imran Khan, the Islamabad High Court (IHC) on Tuesday suspended the former Pakistan prime ministers three-year sentence in the Toshakhana case

The order was pronounced by a division bench comprising Chief Justice Aamer Farooq and Justice Tariq Mehmood Jahangiri on the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairmans appeal against his jail term.

The copy of the judgment will be available shortly  all we are saying now is that [Imrans] request has been approved, a report by Dawn quoted Justice Farooq as saying.

The verdict was reserved by the high court a day earlier wherein it directed the authorities to release the PTI chief on bail.

On 5 August, a district and sessions court in Islamabad had convicted Imran Khan in the case filed by the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) that involved concealing details of state gifts.

The court sentenced him to three years in prison and imposed a fine of Rs 100,000, after finding him guilty of corrupt practices related to the state gift repository.

The verdict meant he was disqualified from contesting general elections for five years including the one scheduled later this year.

Imran Khan was immediately arrest after the courts verdict on 5 August and had since been imprisoned in Attock jail.

The former Pakistan PM had subsequently filed an appeal in the high court against his conviction. He had also approached the Supreme Court against the IHCs decision to remand the case back to the trial court judge who had convicted him.

However, last week, the SC had acknowledged procedural defects in Imran Khans conviction but had opted to wait for the Islamabad High Courts decision on his plea.

With inputs from agencies
BEIJING  In a recent development, China has intensified its policy support aimed at attracting foreign investment and catering to the needs of international firms. These robust efforts send clear and resounding signals of the country's commitment to further opening up, thereby solidifying its position as one of the world's most appealing consumer and manufacturing markets. Targeted support The country's State Council on Aug 13 unveiled guidelines containing 24 specific measures to further optimize China's foreign investment environment and beef up foreign investment inflow. These measures include expanding pilot areas to open wider in terms of services, encouraging foreign firms and their R&D centers to undertake major sci-tech projects, facilitating the travel of senior executives, technicians and their families, and enhancing the expertise of personnel in local government offices handling foreign investment. Foreign firms are encouraged to participate in setting standards in a law-based and fair manner and develop globally leading products in China, according to the guidelines. "These measures address specific concerns of foreign firms and highlight the focus of China's further reform and opening-up," said Nie Pingxiang, a researcher with the Ministry of Commerce's think tank. The guidelines are in line with the country's constant pursuit of a more market-oriented, law-based and internationalized business environment. Earlier this year, China rolled out policies to boost foreign trade, widen institutional opening-up in free trade areas and free trade ports, and encourage foreign firms to set up R&D centers in China. The MOC will work with relevant departments to shorten the country's negative list for foreign investment access. In the meantime, it will continue to ease restrictions on foreign strategic investment in listed companies in China, Chen Chunjiang, assistant minister of commerce, said at a news conference on Aug 14. Promising market Despite a sluggish global economy, China has managed to keep foreign investment relatively stable. In the first half, China saw a 35.7 percent year-on-year increase in the number of new foreign enterprises despite a slight dip in actual utilized foreign investment. In particular, actual utilized foreign investment flowing to the high-tech manufacturing industry expanded by 28.8 percent from a year ago. The MOC has set 2023 as "Invest in China Year", featuring over 20 foreign investment-related events, including the China Beijing International Fair for Trade in Services and China International Fair for Investment and Trade. "We are very pleased to see the State Council's latest policy to further optimize the foreign investment environment and increasing efforts to attract foreign investment, especially the clear mention of accelerating the landing and operation of foreign investment projects in the field of biopharmaceuticals," said Leon Wang, executive vice-president and international and China president of AstraZeneca. Upbeat on the potential of China's innovative biopharmaceutical industry, the United Kingdom-based global pharmaceutical company on Aug 14 inked a Memorandum of Understanding with the Qingdao National High-tech Industrial Development Zone located in East China's Shandong province. According to the MOU, AstraZeneca will further invest $250 million in its Qingdao pMDI inhalation manufacturing and supply site. "AstraZeneca will continue to stay true to its original intention and actively pursue development in China," Wang said.
Beijing has raised serious concerns with the United States over Washingtons trade curbs on Chinese businesses, warning they could threaten the security and stability of global supply chains, state media reported Tuesday.

In a readout of Monday talks in Beijing between the Chinese commerce minister and his US counterpart Gina Raimondo, state news agency Xinhua said Wang Wentao had urged Washington to match its words with actions.

Wang raised serious concerns about issues including the US Section 301 tariffs on Chinese goods, its semiconductor policies, restrictions of two-way investment, discriminatory subsidies, and sanctions on Chinese enterprises, Wang said, referring to a raft of US policies Washington defends as necessary to de-risk its supply chains.

Unilateral and protectionist measures run counter to market rules and the principle of fair competition, and will only harm the security and stability of the global industrial and supply chains, he added.
China on Monday formally unveiled the version of its standard map for 2023 that includes the disputed territories, such as its claims to Arunachal Pradesh, the Aksai Chin region, Taiwan, and the South China Sea.

India has repeatedly said that the state of Arunachal Pradesh has always been and will always be an integral part of the country.

The 2023 edition of Chinas standard map was officially released on Monday and launched on the website of the standard map service hosted by the Ministry of Natural Resources, state-run Global Times said in a post on X, formerly Twitter.

This map is compiled based on the drawing method of the national boundaries of China and various countries in the world, the post added.

The map also displayed by the Global Times showed Arunachal Pradesh, which China claims as South Tibet, and Aksai Chin occupied by it in the 1962 war.

The map also incorporated Chinas claims over the estranged island of Taiwan and the nine-dash line claiming a large part of the South China Sea.

China claims Taiwan as part of its mainland and its integration with the mainland is part of a vowed objective of Chinese President Xi Jinping.

Vietnam, the Philippines, Malaysia, Brunei and Taiwan have counterclaims over the South China Sea areas.

With inputs from agencies
US and Chinese officials will hold a fresh round of talks on contentious trade issues on Tuesday, the third day of a visit to Beijing by US Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo.

Raimondos trip to China is the latest by a senior US official in recent months as Washington seeks to defuse tensions with the worlds second-largest economy.

On Monday she met with Commerce Minister Wang Wentao, with the two sides agreeing to set up a working group to iron out the laundry list of trade disputes between them.

They also agreed to set up what Washington called an export control enforcement information exchange  described as a platform to reduce misunderstanding of US national security policies.

The information exchange will convene for the first time at Beijings Ministry of Commerce on Tuesday, Washington said.

In a statement on the talks, the US Commerce Department said that Secretary Raimondo emphasized the importance of ensuring open lines of communication between the United States and China and took concrete steps to deliver on that goal.

But Beijing painted a less rosy picture, saying Wang had raised serious concerns over Washingtons trade curbs on Chinese businesses.

Those included US Section 301 tariffs on Chinese goods, its semiconductor policies, restrictions of two-way investment, discriminatory subsidies, and sanctions on Chinese enterprises, Beijings commerce ministry said.

Washington defends the policies as necessary to de-risk its supply chains.

But Wang warned they run counter to market rules and the principle of fair competition and will only harm the security and stability of the global industrial and supply chains.

Raimondo met Chinas Culture and Tourism Minister Hu Heping on Tuesday, underscoring the importance of people-to-people exchange to the broader US-China bilateral relationship, the US Commerce Department said.

She was also set to meet with Vice Premier He Lifeng and to pay a courtesy visit to Premier Li Qiang.

Raimondo will then head to Chinas economic powerhouse Shanghai, before leaving the country on Wednesday.

Healthy competition

The commerce secretary is one of a number of senior US officials to visit China in recent months  part of an effort by Washington to improve its working relationship with its largest strategic rival.

Relations between the two countries have plummeted to some of their lowest levels in decades, with US trade curbs near the top of the list of disagreements.

This month, Biden issued an executive order aimed at restricting certain US investments in sensitive high-tech areas in China  a move Beijing blasted as being anti-globalisation.

The long-anticipated rules, expected to be implemented next year, target sectors such as semiconductors and artificial intelligence.

US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen sought to reassure Chinese officials about the expected curbs during a visit to Beijing last month.

And Raimondo on Monday told Chinese officials that while there was no room to compromise or negotiate on US national security, the vast majority of our trade and investment relationship does not involve national security concerns.

We seek healthy competition with China. A growing Chinese economy that plays by the rules is in both of our interests, she said.

In June, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken travelled to Beijing, where he met President Xi Jinping and said progress had been made on a number of key points of contention. US climate envoy John Kerry also visited China in July.
Chinas premier warned US officials on Tuesday that moves to politicise trade issues would prove disastrous for the global economy, state media reported.

US Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo is currently on a four-day bridge-building visit to China aimed at better managing tensions between the worlds two largest economies.

But a meeting with Premier Li Qiang on Tuesday saw the top official lay into American trade curbs against Beijing, which Washington insists are necessary for its national security but which China says are meant to clip its economic rise.

Politicising economic and trade issues and overstretching the concept of security will seriously affect bilateral relations and mutual trust, he told Gina Raimondo, according to Chinas official Xinhua news agency.

They also undermine the interests of enterprises and people of the two countries, and will have a disastrous impact on the global economy, he added.

Relations between the two countries have plummeted to some of their lowest levels in decades, with US trade curbs near the top of the list of disagreements.

This month, US President Joe Biden issued an executive order aimed at restricting certain US investments in sensitive high-tech areas in China  a move Beijing blasted as being anti-globalisation.

The long-anticipated rules, expected to be implemented next year, target sectors such as semiconductors and artificial intelligence.

Premier Li Qiang on Tuesday urged the US to change tack, saying the two sides should strengthen mutually beneficial cooperation, reduce friction and confrontation, and jointly promote world economic recovery and cope with global challenges.

While Li Qiang used their meeting to condemn US policy, Gina Raimondo stressed the importance of open communication between the two powers.

Pointing to areas of global concern like climate change, Artificial Intelligence and fentanyl addiction, she told Li Qiang that Washington wants to work with you as two global powers to do what is right for all of humanity.

The world is expecting us to step up together to solve these problems, she said.

Gina Raimondo also reiterated the US position that it is not seeking to decouple its economy from Chinas.

We seek to maintain our $700 billion commercial relationship with China, and we hope that the relationship can provide stability, she said.

Earlier on Tuesday, Gina Raimondo met Chinas vice premier, He Lifeng, describing the US-China commercial relationship as one of the most consequential in the world.

Managing that relationship responsibly is critical to both of our nations and indeed to the whole world, she said during a part of the meeting open to journalists.

She stressed the US would never compromise in protecting our national security, but added that Washington did not seek to hold Chinas economy back.

Gina Raimondo heads to Chinas economic powerhouse Shanghai later on Tuesday and will leave the country on Wednesday.

The commerce secretary is one of a number of senior US officials to visit China in recent months  part of an effort by Washington to improve its working relationship with its largest strategic rival.

She has used the trip to seek more open discussions with the Chinese over restrictive trade curbs. On Monday, she met Commerce Minister Wang Wentao, with the two sides agreeing to set up a working group to iron out the laundry list of trade disputes between them.

They also agreed to set up what Washington called an export control enforcement information exchange  described as a platform to reduce misunderstanding of US national security policies.

Beijing has throughout the trip painted a less rosy picture than the United States, saying Wang Wentao had raised serious concerns over Washingtons trade curbs.
Japan said on Tuesday that harassment being faced by Japanese in China after the release of water from the Fukushima nuclear plant was extremely regrettable, confirming that a brick was thrown at the countrys embassy in Beijing.

Last week, China banned all seafood imports from its neighbour as Japan began releasing treated wastewater from the crippled plant in an operation Tokyo and the United Nations nuclear watchdog have said is safe.

Since then, Japan has urged its citizens in China to keep a low profile and has increased security around schools and diplomatic missions.

Japans foreign minister on Tuesday confirmed media reports that a brick was thrown at its embassy in Beijing and echoed calls from Prime Minister Fumio Kishida on Monday to China to take action to calm the situation.

It is extremely regrettable and worrying, Yoshimasa Hayashi told reporters in Tokyo.

We would like to urge the Chinese government again to take appropriate measures immediately, such as calling on its citizens to act calmly to prevent the situation from escalating, and to take all possible measures to ensure the safety of Japanese residents and our diplomatic missions in China, he said.

He added that China should provide accurate information about the Fukushima water release rather than unnecessarily raising peoples concerns by providing information without any scientific basis.

In Beijing, a spokesperson at the Japanese embassy told AFP that staff were extremely worried.

Some individuals have come to our (embassy) entrance, the spokesperson said.

They took these kinds of actions then were led away by armed police.

Asked what action Beijing would take over the stone-throwing, foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin said Monday that China always protects the safety and legitimate rights and interests of foreigners in China, in accordance with law.

We strongly urge the Japanese side to face up to the legitimate concerns of all parties, immediately stop the discharge of nuclear-contaminated water into the sea, fully consult with its neighbours and other stakeholders, and earnestly dispose of nuclear-contaminated water in a responsible manner, Wang told a regular briefing.

Dont speak loudly

On Sunday, Japans foreign ministry urged its citizens in China to be cautious in your speech and behaviour. Do not speak Japanese unnecessarily or too loudly.

A range of businesses in Japan, from bakeries to an aquarium, have reportedly been subjected to thousands of crank calls that have included abusive and racist language.

Social media users in China have posted recordings and videos of the calls, some of which have attracted tens of thousands of likes.

Japan began releasing more than 500 Olympic swimming pools worth of diluted wastewater from Fukushima into the Pacific on Thursday, 12 years after a tsunami knocked out three reactors in one of the worlds worst atomic accidents.

All radioactive elements have been filtered out except for tritium, levels of which are within safe limits and below that released by nuclear power stations in their normal operation  including in China, plant operator TEPCO says.

Test results from seawater and fish samples near the plant since the start of the discharge  which will take decades to complete  have confirmed this, according to Japanese authorities.
Following the release of radioactive water from the damaged Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power station, Japan threatened to take China to the World Trade Organisation (WTO) to request that Beijing lift the ban on all seafood imports.

Reporters were informed by Japans Foreign Minister Yoshimasa Hayashi that the country would take necessary action (on Chinas ban on aquatic products) under various routes, including the WTO framework.

Economic Security Minister Sanae Takaichi separately stated that if diplomatically denouncing China proves unsuccessful, then a WTO complaint may be an alternative.

The remarks were made as harassing calls from phone numbers with the +86 Chinese country code continued to be made to Japanese businesses and public places, with many callers alleging that they were related to the Fukushima water disaster.

According to Kyoto News, which cited the prefecture governor, the Fukushima prefectural government and public facilities in the prefecture have received roughly 3,000 such calls.

Local media said that Tokyo Electric Power (9501.T), the company that operates the power plant, has already received roughly 6,000 such calls. The government stated that it was looking to telecommunications firms for assistance in blocking the calls.

An increasing number of landline phone users are requesting to block foreign numbers, said a spokesperson at NTT Communications, a Nippon Telegraph and Telephone (9432.T) unit. NTT and other phone companies including KDDI (9433.T) and SoftBank Corp (9434.T) are discussing measures following the governments request.

NTT East, which serves the eastern half of the country including Fukushima, said it had set up a customer service centre on Tuesday specifically for harassment calls from overseas, in response to the governments plea.

It is extremely regrettable and concerning about the large number of harassment calls that have likely come from China, Trade Minister Yasutoshi Nishimura said during a news conference. He said that according to the people of Fukushima some calls were even going to hospitals.

Human life is at stake now. Please stop the calls immediately, Nishimura said.

The minister stated that the government was gathering data regarding rumours of movements in China to boycott Japanese goods and would cooperate with business executives to solve the issue.

As a result of media allegations that some tours to Japan have been cancelled, Japan is also interviewing local travel firms to learn more about the situation with Chinese travellers.

Some travel agencies responded that they had received cancellation requests while others said they had received inquiries about the safety of food and beverages, and the possibility of postponing or cancelling tours, Japans Land Minister Tetsuo Saito told reporters.

The action followed Chinas earlier this month lifting of restrictions on group travel to Japan and other important markets during the pandemic.

(With agency inputs)
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un called for his military to be constantly ready for combat to thwart its rivals plots to invade his country, state media said Tuesday, as the US, South Korea and Japan held a trilateral naval exercise to deal with North Koreas evolving nuclear threats.

The US and South Korean militaries have been separately holding summer bilateral exercises since last week. North Korea views such US-involved training as an invasion rehearsal, though Washington and its partners maintain their drills are defensive.

Kim said in a speech marking the countrys Navy Day on Monday that the waters of the Korean Peninsula have been made unstable with the danger of a nuclear war because of US-led hostilities, according to the official Korean Central News Agency.

He cited the US drills with its allies, the deployment of more powerful U.S. weapons assets in the waters near the Korean Peninsula, and a recent US-South Korean-Japanese summit where an agreement to boost defense cooperation was reached to counter North Koreas nuclear program. Kim called President Joe Biden, South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida the gang bosses of the three countries.

The prevailing situation requires our navy to put all its efforts into rounding off the war readiness to maintain the constant combat alertness and get prepared to break the enemys will for war in contingency, Kim said.

Tuesdays South Korean-US-Japanese drills in international waters off South Koreas southern Jeju island involved naval destroyers from the three countries. The training was aimed at mastering procedures for detecting, tracking and sharing information about incoming North Korean missiles, South Koreas navy said in a statement.

The US and South Korean militaries began the 11-day bilateral drills on August 21. The annual Ulchi Freedom Shield training is a computer-simulated command post-exercise. But they included field exercises this year.

North Korea typically responds to US-South Korean military drills with its own missile tests. Last Thursday, its second attempt to launch a spy satellite into space failed. The day the drills began, KCNA said Kim had observed the test firings of strategic cruise missiles.

Since the beginning of 2022, North Korea has carried out more than 100 weapons tests, many involving nuclear-capable missiles designed to strike the US and its allies South Korea and Japan. Many experts say North Korea ultimately wants to use its boosted military capabilities to wrest greater concessions from the US.

The Norths testing spree has forced the US and South Korea to expand their drills, resume trilateral training involving Japan and enhance regular visibility of US strategic assets to the Korean Peninsula. In July, the United States deployed a nuclear-armed submarine to South Korea for the first time in four decades.

Earlier this month, the US, South Korean and Japanese leaders held their first-ever stand-alone trilateral summit at Camp David. During the meeting, they announced they intend to put into operation by years end the sharing of real-time missile warning data on North Korea and hold annual trilateral exercises.

Kim has been pushing hard to expand his nuclear arsenal and introduce a slew of sophisticated weapons systems.

During his Navy Day speech, Kim said that military units of each service would be given new weaponry in line with the governments decision to expand the operation of tactical nuclear weapons. He said the navy would become a component of the state nuclear deterrence carrying out the strategic duty.

This suggests North Korea would deploy new nuclear-capable missiles to its navy and other military services.

State media reports and photos showed Kim visiting the Navy headquarters with his daughter, reportedly named Ju Ae and aged about 10. It was her first public appearance since mid-May. Kim has brought her to a series of public events since November, sparking speculation about her political status.

South Korean officials say Kim hasnt anointed her as his heir. They believe Kim likely attempted to use his daughters public appearance as a way to show his people that one of his children would one day inherit his power in what would be the countrys third hereditary power transfer.
Moscow said Monday that it had scrambled two fighter jets to intercept two US reconnaissance drones near Crimea.

The Russian defence ministry said on Telegram that it mobilised the two jets after it detected a flight in the direction of the Russian state border.

According to the ministry, the two US drones, a Reaper and a Global Hawk, were carrying out aerial reconnaissance in the region of the Crimean peninsula, near the Black Sea.

Moscow annexed Crimea in 2014.

After the arrival of the Russian planes, the drones changed their direction of flight and left the areas where aerial reconnaissance was being conducted, the ministry added.

Incidents involving Russian aircraft and US drones have increased in recent months.

On Sunday, Russia said it had scrambled a fighter plane to deter a US air force reconnaissance drone from crossing its borders over the Black Sea.
On Tuesday, the Taiwanese defence ministry issued a warning about a potential sharp increase in military tensions following reports of renewed Chinese military activities, including fighter jets flying over the delicate Taiwan Strait median line.

Taiwan, a sovereign island with a democratic government that China claims as its own, has long complained about rising military pressure from Beijing, primarily in the form of Chinese aircraft flying close to the island.

According to the ministry, on Tuesday morning it detected 12 Chinese military aircraft in its air defence identification zone, seven of which  six J-10 fighters and one drone  crossed the median line.

The ministry stated that five Chinese ships also conducted combat readiness patrols but did not specify a location.

The median line had for years served as an unofficial barrier between the two sides, until Chinas air force began regularly crossing it a year ago.

The continued military harassment by the Communist military in the region may lead to a sharp increase in tensions and worsen regional security, the ministry said, calling on Beijing to immediately stop such unilateral acts.

The security and prosperity of the Indo-Pacific region depend on the Taiwan Strait remaining peaceful and stable, and Beijing has a shared obligation to defend this status quo, the ministry noted.

The most recent Chinese expedition took place on the same day that Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an, a member of Taiwans main opposition Kuomintang party, which has always supported tight ties with Beijing, came in Shanghai for the annual city-to-city discussions.

The local government has often stated that the more difficult the environment is, the more the two sides should communicate, according to his office.

What the people of Taiwan want is peace and prosperity. This is the voice of the people and the firm position of the city government, it said.

Before departing for Shanghai, Chiang remarked in a press conference that the city forum was an excellent opportunity to maintain communication and spread the message of peaceful values.

In a joint statement, Taipei city council members from Taiwans ruling Democratic Progressive Party urged Chiang to speak for the Taiwanese people and call for a halt to Chinas military exercises.

(With agency inputs)
If youve ever experienced the inconvenience of having a crying baby nearby during a flight, youre aware of how annoying it can be.

In an effort to prevent such situations, one European airline is taking a unique approach by introducing designated seating zones exclusively for passengers aged 16 and above.

Turkish-Dutch Corendon Airlines is currently in the process of testing these Only Adult zones on flights between Amsterdam and Curacao, set to begin in November, reported USA Today.

To create a distinct separation, the Only Adult zone will be enclosed by walls and curtains, providing an environment suitable for travellers without children and for business passengers who prefer a quiet workspace, according to the airlines press release.

With this, families can also feel relieved knowing that they wont disturb passengers without children.

However, opting for a seat away from children will come at an additional cost. For a one-way ticket, selecting the Only Adult zone will incur an extra charge of 45 euros. Choosing an XL seat within this zone will require an additional payment of 100 euros.

Similar seating arrangements have been adopted by several international airlines. Singaporean low-budget carrier Scoot introduced Scoot-in-Silence cabins, where passengers must be 12 years old or older to enter.

With inputs from agencies
The United States and India are stronger when they work together, according to US Ambassador to India Eric Garcetti, and there is nothing the two nations cannot do. The envoy added that the American dream and the Indian dream are the same thing while addressing at the 2023 EducationUSA Study in the U.S. university fair on Tuesday.

This year, going around the country we have seen so much demand for EducationUSA university events because there is so much excitement. What I think at this moment between United States and India is that Indians in India know Americans in America much better than America and Americans know India and Indians. But thats beginning to change. Every business, every student, every government personnel in Washington is like tell me more about India. So, I feel like I am kind of at the right place at the right time, said Garcetti.

I am here as an ambassador now, and this bridge that you are helping us build really shows the flip side of the same coin. The Indian dream and American dream are the same thing, he added.

In his remarks, Garcetti also referred to Prime Minister Narendra Modis acknowledgement of the historic developments between another Al  America and India during his recent State visit to the US, highlighting the growing friendship and notable advancement between the two countries.

Thank you to the American universities who say that we want Indian students. We gonna produce great Indian students for you and vice versa. Every Indian student that comes through here, tell him or her to tell a classmate, you know, you should come to India, be an ambassador to India, learn something about India, study in India, work here in India. Because I believe that US and India are stronger together, and together theres nothing we cant do, Garcetti said.

I think PM Modi said when he came to state dinner that the future is AI (America and India), so lets get that together, he added.

A university fair was held on Tuesday at EducationUSA at the United States-India Educational Foundation (USIEF), New Delhi, in association with the US Embassy to give students and their parents the chance to speak with representatives of 38 accredited universities and colleges from various regions of the United States.

Participating American higher education institutions at the fair offer a variety of academic programmes at the undergraduate, graduate, and doctorate levels and reflect a diverse geographic and disciplinary landscape.

The United States continues to be the most popular international study destination for Indian students. Over the years, EducationUSA at USIEF has been committed to supporting the informational needs of prospective students who aspire to study at US higher education institutions. This year, we are happy to bring back our signature in-person fairs where students can interact face-to-face with representatives of a wide variety of accredited US universities and colleges, all under one roof. We strongly encourage students and parents to seize this opportunity to seek authentic and unbiased information and take advantage of the wide variety of educational options available at U.S. college campuses, said Adam Grotsky, Executive Director, United States-India Educational Foundation.

From August 26 to September 3, these physical fairs will be held in eight Indian cities: Hyderabad, Mumbai, Pune, New Delhi, Ahmedabad, Kolkata, Chennai, and Bengaluru.

(With agency inputs)
UK Foreign Secretary James Cleverly will visit China this week, Beijings foreign ministry said on Tuesday.

During the Wednesday visit, the two sides will have in-depth communication on China-UK relations and on international and regional issues of shared concern, foreign ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin told a regular briefing.

It is hoped that the UK side will work alongside China in upholding a spirit of mutual respect, conduct in-depth exchanges, enhance understanding, and promote the stable development of China-UK relations, he added.

Cleverlys visit was initially expected to take place in July, but was postponed due to the mysterious disappearance of Beijings now ex-foreign minister Qin Gang.

Relations between the UK and China have soured over a number of issues, including human rights, tech and Beijings crackdown in the former British colony of Hong Kong.

Hawkish elements in Britains ruling Conservative party have urged London to take a tougher stance on China.

But Cleverly has called for a pragmatic, constructive and united Western approach to Chinas rising clout, acknowledging the need to work in partnership with Beijing.
In a recent interview with Ukrainian journalist Nataliia Moseichuk, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that Ukraine needs to learn to live with conflict like Israel.

We are reclaiming our state and it will be ours. It will happen, but we need to learn to live with it, said Zelensky. Israel is fighting. It depends on the kind of war. We are ready to fight for a long time without losing people. Its possible. We can minimize casualties, as with the example of Israel. You can live like this.

Drawing a parallel with Israel, he emphasized that the Israeli model of managing prolonged conflict while minimizing casualties could serve as an example for Ukraine.

Zelensky also highlighted Israels ability to maintain a strong defense and protect its citizens despite ongoing security concerns.

The Ukrainian President called for an Israeli model of defense relations with the United States, advocating for a comprehensive agreement encompassing weaponry, technology, training, and funding. He noted that the specifics of such agreements would vary based on the countrys circumstances, emphasizing the need for provisions related to weapons, sanctions, and financial support.

There should be sanctions, weapons, finances, air defense, aircraft  the menu is large, but the client is different. With the United States, it will be a more powerful bilateral treaty, with Britain the treaty will also be a strong one. However, there are states that simply do not have weapons but do have economies, who can impose serious sanctions in case of repeated aggression, he noted.

While referencing the Israeli approach to security cooperation with the US, Zelensky highlighted that Ukraines situation is distinct due to its unique adversary. He indicated that the envisaged agreement with the United States would encompass a comprehensive range of support, mirroring Israels collaborative defense strategy.

Addressing concerns about the stability of such agreements amid potential changes in leadership, Zelensky assured the Ukrainian public that these agreements would endure, as they require ratification by the respective legislative bodies, such as the US Congress and European parliaments.

In the interview, Zelensky reiterated Ukraines commitment to its path towards NATO membership, emphasizing that security guarantees will remain integral to this trajectory. While acknowledging the significance of a potential NATO invitation, he characterized it as a geopolitical decision reflective of global politics.

As Ukraine forges ahead, President Zelenskys strategic outlook underscores the nations determination to navigate its challenges pragmatically, drawing inspiration from global models while customizing solutions to its unique circumstances.
A tragic incident unfolded on the campus of the University of North Carolina on Monday, resulting in the death of a faculty member due to gun violence. A suspect was arrested, leading to the elimination of the immediate threat by late afternoon.

Im devastated the UNC (University of North Carolina) community lost a faculty member in an act of violence on campus, the institutions chancellor, Kevin Guskiewicz, said in a statement.

Campus authorities alerted the police about gunshots being fired at the Chapel Hill, North Carolina campus. The chancellor confirmed that the suspected individual was under arrest.

Approximately two hours after the initial alert, the police issued a notification declaring the campus to be safe and free from any ongoing danger. Throughout the standoff, the campus was heavily guarded by law enforcement, as depicted in media coverage of the incident.

Before the suspect was arrested, law enforcement had circulated the image of the male suspect through the social media platform X (formerly known as Twitter). At that point, he was considered a person of interest in todays armed and dangerous person situation.

As of now, the identities of both the deceased faculty member and the arrested suspect have not been disclosed by the authorities.

In response, we have canceled classes and all campus events for the rest of the day on Monday, Aug. 28 and Tuesday, Aug. 29, the chancellor added.

The university has a student population of about 32,000, along with about 4,100 faculty and 9,000 staff members.

North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper said earlier on Monday he had pledged all state resources needed to protect the university campus.

The university had asked those on campus to stay sheltered in place for much of the afternoon while the suspect was still at large. The shooting took place in the campus Caudill Laboratories.

With inputs from agencies
Drug overdose and its tragic consequences is not new to the United States, but it has become a chronic worry on the streets of New York recently. Data by the US federal government indicates that a drug overdose claims one life every five minutes in the country.

But now the flesh-eating zombie drug is causing alarm on the US streets, literally rotting peoples bodies, and doctors and other medical professionals appear to be struggling to effectively save people from the disastrous effects of the drug Xylazine.

Zombie Drug, as it is known in the United States, is a drug used as a tranquillizer on cows and horses. It is flooding the country, with people getting it through illegal means more often than not. Dealers often mix it with other illegal drugs like fentanyl and heroin and sell the deadly cocktail to potential customers.

Tranq is posing a significant challenge for medical experts as it has overshadowed the other drugs coming into the country through illicit ways. This is making the situation very complicated and thus rendering treatment difficult.

The clinical picture becomes much more diabolical, a lot harder to follow, and a lot more can go wrong when tranq is involved, Dr Paolo Coppola, the board-certified co-founder of Victory Recovery Partners in Massapequa Park, told The New York Post in a recent interview.

Drug overdoses involving xylazine are much harder to treat, Dr Coppola said, because the miracle opioid overdose reversal drug Narcan doesnt work on the sedative.

When an addict uses a speedball of cocaine and heroin, we can deal with that without a problem. You reverse the heroin so they start breathing again, and you wait for the cocaine to finish up, he said.

Xylazine doesnt work that way, the doctor continued. When they come to the emergency room, you fully expect them to wake up when you push the Narcan but all of a sudden its not really working; theyre not waking up.

Dr Coppola explained that the existence of tranquillizers frequently prompts doctors to turn to substitute medications as a means to stabilise a patients diminishing blood pressure or rapidly declining heart rate.

We think, Wait a minute, hes on suboxone and hes on a good enough dose, so why is he still irritable and anxious? Why is his blood pressure up? Why is he having seizures? Dr Coppola said, referring to the medication used to treat narcotic dependence.

If theyve been using xylazine long enough with their fentanyl, theyll have withdrawal effects from the xylazine, which makes it terribly difficult for doctors treating such cases, he said.
In yet another desperate attempt to boost its marriage rate and hence increase population, authorities in one of Chinas most wealthy provinces, Changshan, have announced cash prizes for couples if the bride is 25 years old or below.

Newlyweds in Changshan will receive over 1,000 yuan (US$138) if a groom marries a woman who is aged 25 or younger. In China, the legal age of marriage is 22 for men and 20 for women.

Authorities in different provinces of China have been introducing a slew of measures to ensure young to tie the knot. Last week, the country celebrated its traditional Valentines Day called the Qixi Festival where couples received text messages from the local health commission with an appeal that read: Get married and give birth at an appropriate age  carry on the Chinese heritage and share in the responsibility of national rejuvenation.

Chinas declining demography

People in China have been rejecting the institution of marriage in larger numbers over the years with 2022 recording the lowest number of weddings since the 1970s.

This has triggered a demographic crisis that the country has not seen in over 60 years.

Wedding registrations in 2022 declined to 6.83 million marking the ninth consecutive year of annual decline.

Yuan Xin, vice-president of the China Population Association said, Young people now pursue a life that revolves around their own personal development and pleasure, instead of a life that revolves around a child.

If starting a family stands in the way of their own development and happiness, they will opt out of giving birth, or even marriage, he added.

China offers 30 days paid marriage leaves to tackle declining birth rate

Earlier this year, some provinces in China started offering 30 days of paid leave for newlyweds couples.

According to reports by Chinas Peoples Daily Health, the north-western province of Gansu as well as the province of Shanxi will now give 30 days of paid marriage leave while Shanghai gives 10 and Sichuan offers only three days.

The rest of China, similarly, offers three days of paid leave to new couples but some provinces, in a bid to encourage people to get married and have more children, have been generous to grant more leaves.

China discourages exorbitant bride prices

In March, China began to prioritise terminating the practice of taking exorbitant bride prices.

Bride money has emerged as a social ill and the communist government has launched campaigns, for example, in several cities and prefectures in east Chinas Jiangxi province, famous for bridal money, to make young women refuse the local custom.

Videos that have gone viral show dozens of women, possibly in their 20s and 30s, making vows that they do not ask for cars, houses, or plenty of cash when they get married. The move is aimed at eliminating obstacles to marriages for higher birth rates.
To:

United States President R. Biden

United Kingdom Prime Minister Rishi Sunak

European Union President Ursula von der Leyen

African Union Chairperson Azali Assoumani

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres

UN High Commissioner for Refugees Filippo Grandi

US Ambassador to the United Nations Linda Thomas Greenfield

An Open Letter on the Immediate Refugee Crisis in Malawi

The Hotel Rwanda Rusesabagina Foundation (HRRF) joins many Malawian and African refugee and human rights groups in deploring the ongoing actions of the government of Malawi against over 50,000 refugees and asylum seekers since March, 2023. Most of whom are from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Rwanda and Burundi. According to recent reports, Rwandan and Burundian refugees have been singled out for even worse treatment than others, including reports of collaboration between Rwanda and Malawi in mistreatment of Rwandan refugees.

We call upon the United States, United Kingdom, the European Union, the African Union and the United Nations to intercede on behalf of these refugees and put pressure on the government of Malawi to stop human rights violations and work within international norms for the treatment of refugees.

In a June report from Human Rights Watch (HRW), among other sources, Malawi is accused of engaging in alarming incidents of lawlessness and gross violations, often conducted and instigated by members of the Malawi Congress Party (MCP) and the Malawi Police Service (MPS). The MPS has resorted to excessive force during arrests of immigrants and refugees. Vulnerable individuals from Rwanda and Burundi have suffered significantly. Police are reported to exploit refugees by demanding bribes and confiscating property. In addition, the MCP has allegedly instigated terror and committed serious crimes under the guise of safeguarding national security, in addition to spreading xenophobia against refugees.

The immediate crisis began in March when the government created an encampment policy toward refugees. Prior to that edict, an estimated 8,000 refugees had lived in rural and urban Malawi for some time, allowed to work and create local businesses as a source of income. Country conditions are deplorable for refugees, and without this additional income many would starve. Refugees were told to turn themselves in and move to the Dzaleka refugee camp, 40 kilometers from the nearest town, by April. Most did not comply with an order they saw as illegal treatment, since they had received permits to work.

According to HRW, the refugees told the media that an agreement with the government had allowed them to start and run small businesses in rural and urban communities so that they do not rely on handouts in refugee camps. Malawi is party to both the 1951 UN Refugee Convention and the 1969 African (OAU) refugee conventions. Article 26 of the 1951 Convention recognizes the right of freedom of movement and choice of residence for refugees lawfully within a country, while article 31(2) prohibits restrictions on the freedom of movement of asylum seekers unless such restrictions are deemed necessary.

In May, nearly 1,000 refugees and asylum seekers were arrested by the MPS, along with the closure of their businesses and confiscation of their property. Those arrested were temporarily detained in terrible prison conditions, and then sent empty-handed to the Dzaleka camp. Their belongings, including a number of storage containers used to hold the goods they were selling, were kept by the government.

The UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) reported that as of May, there were over 50,000 refugees in this camp, which is intended to accommodate up to 12,000 people. UNHCR has said that the overcrowded camp is unable to meet the food, health, water, shelter, and sanitation needs of its existing population.

Throughout the relocation process, refugees have lodged complaints about systematic violations of human rights. Relocation from their homes to Dzaleka was accompanied by cruel, inhumane, and degrading treatment amounting to torture. Refugees endured overcrowded conditions, physical abuse, lack of access to legal representation and family, detention without trial, and limited access to basic amenities such as food and menstrual pads. Families were torn apart, and previously self reliant asylum seekers were forced into overcrowded camps, losing their means of sustenance.

Most recently, the Malawi police announced that on Monday, August 28, 2023, they plan to open and search the previously sealed containers where the refugees' business goods are stored. The government has increasingly attempted to demonize the refugees, including allegations that they are planning to engage in violence against the government. These are people who are just barely surviving, with no access to basic sustenance in many cases. The idea that they might rise up against anyone, or even have access to weapons, is counter-intuitive.

Government suggestions that they might find weapons in the containers raise concerns among the refugees that either reports may be falsified or weapons may be planted in an attempt to criminalize their behavior.

Finally, Rwandan refugees have regularly reported links between the Malawian and Rwandan police forces, who are believed to be working together against the interests of Rwandans in the country. The Rwandan government has accused refugees, who are in Malawi after fleeing inhumane conditions in Rwanda, of being dissidents against Rwanda and its President Paul Kagame. Rwandan police, distinctive because they speak Kinyarwanda, have been involved in singling out and harrassing many of the Rwandan refugees. Reports have come out of Malawi of Rwandan police torturing refugees, arresting them and taking them to Rwanda without legal extradition, and in some cases simply kidnapping them to bring to Rwanda. There are a number of reported cases of prisoners in Rwanda jails who were renditioned from Malawi and put in prison without a trial.

Refugee groups argue that if Rwanda believes that some of the refugees have committed crimes, they should go through a legal extradition process with Malawi and then put the accused on trial in Rwanda, but this route has not been taken.

The HRRF once again calls upon everyone in the international community to join together and stop the ongoing human rights violations in Malawi. These have created deplorable conditions for over 50,000 refugees and are likely to continue unless strong pressure is put on the government of Malawi to protect the refugees and change their behavior.
Quiz Answer Key and Fun Facts

1. Nicknamed "the hell hole", this prison was built in 1875, largely by the inmates themselves. It appeared in the title of two motion pictures of the same title in 1957 and 2007. Which prison in the Ol' American West was overcrowded from the beginning, housing as many as six prisoners in one tiny cell with no ventilation, no electricity, no running water, and no sanitation?



Answer: Yuma Territorial Prison



3:10 to Yuma was the name of the movie. A "dark room" was used for solitary confinement, while the "ol' ball and chain" was used for minor infractions. The temperature in those crowded cells could reach 120 degrees. The prison closed in 1909, three years before Arizona became a state.



The prison library was the largest in the territory.

2. This prison in London was built in 1188 under King Henry II's rule to house those awaiting trial. Over the years it housed everyone from debtors to murders. It has the dubious distinction of having the world's first death row. What London prison served as a training site for executioners?



Answer: Newgate Prison



The notorious Newgate Prison, despite several rebuilds, finally closed for good in 1901. Many inmates contracted typhus and died while awaiting trial; starvation and violence were also common. From 1800 to 1868, this was where most of London's public executions took place. Petty treason incurred being hung and quartered; in cases where high treason was committed, the accused would be castrated, disemboweled and beheaded. Women were burnt at the stake.

3. The "Hanoi Hilton" was a prison so named by the American POWs held there during the Vietnam War. POWs were tortured and beaten, despite North Vietnam being a signer of the Geneva Convention. What was the real name of the "Hanoi Hilton"?



Hoa Lo Prison



Hoa Lo Prison was originally built by the French in 1896 to house 450 inmates. By the 1930s, its population was in excess of 2,000 prisoners. Disease, starvation, torture, and oh yes, the

guillotine were responsible for thousands of deaths under French rule. Almost 600 American POWs were held there. Answer:Hoa Lo Prison was originally built by the French in 1896 to house 450 inmates. By the 1930s, its population was in excess of 2,000 prisoners. Disease, starvation, torture, and oh yes, theguillotine were responsible for thousands of deaths under French rule. Almost 600 American POWs were held there.

4. Known as the "Mother of the Soviet Gulag", this forced labor camp was the first of many established under Lenin and greatly expanded by Stalin. What is this "Mother's" name?



Answer: Solovki Prison Camp



Built near the White Sea in 1922 on the site of a monastery, the Solovki Prison Camp served as the main corrective (because it held political prisoners) labor camp for the building of the Baltic Canal, which was part of Stalin's Five-Year Plan. Up to 25,000 inmates died and another 10,000 were shot during its construction. Exact numbers will never be known. GULAG is an acronym in Russian for "Main Administration of Camps."

5. Devil's Island lies just 8 miles off the coast of French Guiana. The islands (there are 3 of them) were named the Salvation Islands by French settlers, but in an 1851 coup d'etat, a new emperor seized power and turned one of the islands into one of the most notorious prisons in the world. Who was this French emperor?



Answer: Napoleon III



Napoleon III seized power from King Louis-Philippe and declared himself to be Emperor of the Second French Empire. Napoleon III was the last emperor of France. He exiled some 26,000 political enemies, many of whom ended up at Devil's Island (Ile du Diable) and never returned to France.



There was no escape from the brutal and inhuman living conditions on the island, as it was ringed by sharks who fed on the bodies of dead prisoners.

6. Now a tiny village in southwestern Georgia, Andersonville was a notorious Confederate POW camp from February 1864 to April 1865. What was Andersonville's official name?



Answer: Camp Sumter



Camp Sumter, known for its high death rate and unhealthy living conditions, was commanded by Captain Henry Wirz. It is believed that over 13,000 POWs died in its 13 months of operation. The prison was built to house 10,000, but by August 1864 it held 30,000. Guards brutalized prisoners and there was violence between factions of inmates, while guards turned a blind eye.



After the war, Captain Wirz was tried, convicted, and hanged for war crimes.

7. This institution was the site for the filming of "The Shawshank Redemption". Opened in 1920, it was designed to hold first-time offenders, but quickly became the home of America's very worst criminals. What was the name of this Ohio institution?



Answer: Ohio State Reformatory



The Ohio State Reformatory was a massive structure designed by Levi Scofield, a well-known prison architect. OSR was closed in 1990 by court order because it was described as "brutal, inhumane, disgraceful and unfit for human habitation." The inmates filed a class action suit against OSR claiming inhumane conditions and intense overcrowding.

8. The Chateau d'If was a former prison located on the Ile d'If off the coast of Marseille, France. It was a dumping ground for political and religious prisoners and many of France's worst criminals. Many died while chained to walls, neglected. The prison is the setting for a literary masterpiece by which author?



Alexandre Dumas



The Chateau d'If is known as France's Alcatraz because of the swiftly moving waters which make escape all but impossible. The mysterious "Man in the Iron Mask" is said to have been an inmate there.



Alexandre Dumas' novel "The Count of Monte Cristo", published in 1844, is a story of a sailor who spent 14 years at Chateau d'If before successfully escaping. Answer:The Chateau d'If is known as France's Alcatraz because of the swiftly moving waters which make escape all but impossible. The mysterious "Man in the Iron Mask" is said to have been an inmate there.Alexandre Dumas' novel "The Count of Monte Cristo", published in 1844, is a story of a sailor who spent 14 years at Chateau d'If before successfully escaping.

9. Under the despotic rule of one man, this prison was a way-station for the genocide that followed. In only 4 years, over 2 million perished. In which of these cities was a former high school turned into one of the most notorious prisons in southeast Asia?



Answer: Phnom Penh, Cambodia



The prison was named S-21. It was meant to hold inmates before they were taken to the "killing fields". While at S-21, prisoners were subjected to torture and forced labor and many died of starvation and disease while awaiting certain death in the "killing fields." Pol Pot, leader of the Khmer Rouge, was responsible for the murder of millions.

10. Known as Russia's Alcatraz, this notorious prison houses Russia's most dangerous criminals. Prisoners are kept in their cells 22.5 hours a day and allowed only 2 visitors a year. What is the name of this mind-numbing prison?



Answer: Petak Island Prison



Petak Island Prison is located on an island in the middle of White Lake in north-western Russia; escape is all but impossible. The solitary confinement controls prison violence at the cost of extreme mental torture. One inmate was quoted as saying, "The are no lavatories, no washing facilities and you spend your whole life in a cell".



A sentence of more than 5 years results in psychological destruction.

Source: Author ncterp This quiz was reviewed by FunTrivia editor trident before going online.Any errors found in FunTrivia content are routinely corrected through our feedback system.
The federal government has evacuated Nigerian irregular migrants freed from detention centres across Libya.

The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) said a total of 298 Nigerians imprisoned in Libyan prisons were repatriated back to the country in two separate chartered flights within a week.NEMA said the repatriation exercise which started on August 21 to August 28 was made possible through the joint effort of IOM, NEMA, Port Health, and NCFRM.Southwest Coordinator NEMA, Mr. Ibrahim Falinloye said;

Quote

"The flight came with 161 Returnees on the 21st August, 2023, while the flight 137 Returnees arrived on Monday. The Returnees whose women have spent varying periods in various detection camps in the trouble northern African country, complained of bitter experiences that they claimed they would never pray for their enemies to pass through.



The profile of the returnees indicates that 119 adult females mostly pregnant, three female children, and two female infant were among the returnees, while 170 adult males, three male children and one male infant completed the total of 298 brought back.



The returnees were brought aboard Al Buraq Air Boeing 737-800, with registration number: 5A-DMG arrived the Cargo Wing of the Murtala Muhammad International Airport, Ikeja, at about 17.38 hours Monday night
Rakhi Tech Special: 10 Gift Ideas for Your Brother or Sister Features oi -Kabir Jain

As Rakhi approaches, and if you tend to leave gift shopping to the eleventh hour, you might be in search of ideas. No worries, we've got you covered. We've curated a selection of top-notch tech products that could make fantastic Rakshabandhan gifts for your sibling. Here's a rundown of the top tech gifts to consider this Rakhi.

The ASUS ROG Ally (which we recently reviewed) is a powerful handheld gaming device that would make an excellent gift for your brother or sister who loves to game on the go. It features an AMD Ryzen Z1 or Z1 Extreme Processor with Zen 4 architecture, a large 7-inch FHD IPS-level touchscreen, 16GB of RAM, and a 512GB SSD. It also includes Dolby Atmos audio, Wi-Fi 6E, and Bluetooth 5.2. The handheld also comes with a 40WHrs battery, a 65W USB Type-C PD 3.0 power supply, and 3 months of Xbox Game Pass Ultimate.

Looking for a thoughtful smartphone gift on a budget? Check out the new Redmi 12 5G. It has a Gorilla Glass front and back, a plastic frame, and an IP53 rating. The 6.79-inch IPS LCD screen has a 90Hz refresh rate and 550 nits of brightness. It runs on the Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 processor and Android 13 with MIUI 14, and has up to 256GB of storage and 8GB of RAM.

The camera array includes a 50MP wide-angle sensor, a 2MP depth sensor, and an 8MP selfie camera. The 5000mAh battery supports 18W wired charging. The phone also has a side-mounted fingerprint sensor, NFC, and USB Type-C.

The Redmi Watch 3 Active is a cost-effective smartwatch that is well worth considering. It is made of plastic and is water resistant to 50 meters (5ATM). It has a 1.83-inch IPS LCD display with 450 nits brightness.

It runs on a proprietary operating system and includes a variety of sensors, including an accelerometer, heart rate monitor, and SpO2 sensor. It supports Bluetooth 5.3 for connectivity and has a speaker too. The watch packs a 289mAh battery and is available in black and gray colors.

Looking for a cool Rakshabandhan gift? The Nothing Phone 2 is a great choice. With unique Glyph LED lights and a transparent back design, it truly stands out. The device features Gorilla Glass front and back, an aluminum frame, and is splash-resistant. Its 6.7-inch LTPO OLED display offers a smooth 120Hz refresh rate and vibrant 1600 nits of peak brightness.

Powered by Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1, it operates on Android 13 with Nothing OS on top. The camera system boasts a dual 50MP setup and a 32MP selfie camera. Lastly, the 4700mAh battery supports both 45W wired and 15W wireless charging.

The Nothing Ear 2 wireless earbuds feature the company's signature transparent design, similar to the Phone 2. They have 11.6mm dynamic drivers that ensure long-lasting quality. These earbuds weigh only 4.50g and are IP54 water resistant, making them durable. Their exceptional noise cancellation, which reaches 48dB, guarantees a premium listening experience.

The buds use Bluetooth 5.3 to seamlessly connect and support SBC, AAC, and LHDC codecs. The convenience of USB Type-C charging makes it even more appealing. The earbuds have a 4-hour battery life, which can be extended to 22 hours with the charging case. Each earbud has a 33mAh battery, while the case has a 485mAh capacity.

If you are searching for a good all-purpose laptop at a reasonable price, the Infinix Zerobook is a great choice. This laptop offers a sophisticated design, blending an aluminum chassis with potent internals. Its 15.6-inch IPS LCD display boasts a 1920x1080 resolution and 400 nits peak brightness. Users can select between Core i5-13500H, Core i7-13700H, and Core i9-13900H processors.

Storage options include 512GB and 1TB PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD. Memory ranges from 16GB LPDDR5X RAM in the i5 model to 32GB in the i9 version. The 70Wh battery pairs with a 100W charger for swift charging.

The Zerobook 13 features a physical switch for toggling eco, balanced, and performance modes, catering to different needs. It incorporates a fingerprint sensor within the power button for enhanced security and easy Windows Hello authentication.

The Moto Edge 40 is a great option if you're looking for a well-rounded smartphone with a clean software experience, good build quality, and an affordable price. It has a sleek design with a glass front, aluminum frame, and plastic or eco-leather back. It supports single or dual Nano-SIM cards and is IP68 water resistant. The 6.55-inch P-OLED display has a 144Hz refresh rate, HDR10+ support, and a peak brightness of 1200 nits.

It runs Android 13 and is powered by a Mediatek Dimensity 8020 chipset. Storage options range from 128GB 8GB RAM to 256GB 8GB RAM. The dual main camera setup includes 50MP wide and 13MP ultrawide lenses, and the selfie camera is 32MP. The 4400mAh battery supports 68W wired and 15W wireless charging.

The HP Omen is a high-end gaming laptop with a sleek Shadow Black design, a large 16.1-inch screen, and an AMD Ryzen 7 7840HS processor with a speed of up to 5.1 GHz. It also has 16GB of DDR5 RAM, an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060 graphics card, Bang & Olufsen audio, two USB 3.0 ports, Windows 11 Home operating system, and a 6-cell 83Wh lithium-ion battery. It is a great choice for gamers and multimedia enthusiasts who are looking for a powerful and stylish laptop.

If you are tired of seeing smartphones and laptops as gifts and want to give something truly unique, look no further than the newly released boAt Smart Ring. This small ring is made of a lightweight, premium combination of ceramic and metal. It includes health features such as heart rate and SpO2 sensors, sleep and period tracking, and body temperature monitoring.

Activity tracking includes running and walking, with goal-setting through the boAt Ring app. Intuitive touch controls manage music, photography, and app navigation via Bluetooth 5.0. It offers 1.5 hours of charging time and up to 7 days of use. Lastly, it also features Emergency SOS and 5ATM water resistance.

If you're looking to give a great pair of headphones as a gift, the Sony WH-1000XM5 is the way to go. These headphones offer industry-leading noise cancellation, powered by two processors and eight microphones. They also feature Auto NC Optimizer for adaptive noise cancellation, and Precise Voice Pickup Technology with AI-based noise reduction for exceptional call quality.

The headphones offer magnificent sound through the Integrated Processor V1, and crystal clear calls are enhanced by beamforming microphones and advanced audio signal processing.

With up to 40 hours of battery life and quick charging, they're always ready to go. The ultra-comfortable design includes a soft leather fit, and touch controls allow easy music control. Multipoint connection supports device switching, while Speak-to-Chat and Quick Attention modes provide convenience and ambient sound inclusion.

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Compact Android Smartphone Will Live On With Zenfone 11: ASUS Wont Discontinue Series News oi -Alap Naik Desai

Several reports claimed yesterday that ASUS is ending its Zenfone series of smartphones. However, the company has hit back at those reports and denied it is retiring the mobile phones that were popular for their compact design and decent hardware.

The ASUS Zenfone line was rumored to be ending, and the ASUS Zenfone 10 was supposed to be the last smartphone in the series. However, that is not the case, ASUS has officially confirmed. Let's look at the developments and see when the latest ASUS Zenfone 11 could launch.

ASUS Zenfone 10 Is Not The Last Generation Of The Compact Android Smartphone Series

Several publications cited a report from Taiwan that claimed ASUS is retiring the Zenfone series. This move was allegedly part of an "organizational restructuring".

The report claimed it relied on an internal letter at ASUS which allegedly mentioned the plan was to transfer some internal employees from the PC department to the mobile phone divisions. Besides the PC department, which is currently struggling a little, ASUS also has the ROG and the Zenfone, which are smartphone departments.

Refuting these rumors and discrediting the alleged letter, ASUS has released an official statement confirming the Zenfone series will live on:

"We would like to address the rumor that ASUS Zenfone 10 will be the last generation of the series and the ASUS Zenfone product line will be shut down. This is not true. We will continue our two main phone business product lines, the ROG Phone and the Zenfone. ASUS has a strong commitment to our smartphone business and customers. Please reference our Q2 earnings call for more information. Please stay tuned for our 2024 product lineups."

When Will ASUS Launch The Zenfone 11?

ASUS launched the first smartphone in the Zenfone series way back in 2014. The Zenfone 10 is currently available for pre-order. However, its availability is limited.

The Zenfone series majorly comprises compact Android smartphones. In other words, devices have significantly smaller displays. However, this does not mean they are budget or affordable smartphones with entry-level hardware.

The ASUS Zenfone series has traditionally packed potent hardware, and its smartphones are usually positioned in the midrange category. However, their demand isn't consistently high. Moreover, smartphone manufacturers like Xiaomi, Samsung, OnePlus, and many others are quite aggressive and active in the space.

ASUS has mentioned in its official statement, customers should stay tuned for its 2024 product lineup. Combined with the assurance about continuing the Zenfone series, it means there will be an ASUS Zenfone 11, and it could launch next year.

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Motorola Edge 2023 Render Leaks Ahead of Launch: Check Details News oi -Kabir Jain

Motorola released the Moto Edge 2022 smartphone in August of last year. It appears that the company is now preparing to release its successor, the Moto Edge 2023, in the coming months. A leaked render from Pricebaba provides a sneak peek at the design of the Moto Edge 2023 before its official unveiling. Let's take a look.

Design Highlights

The leaked render of the Moto Edge 2023 reveals that the device will feature a display with curved edges, delivering a modern and immersive visual experience. The rear of the smartphone will house a dual-camera system alongside two LED flashes. The blurred text next to the camera module suggests the presence of a 50MP primary camera. On the right side of the device, users can find a power button and volume keys for easy access.

Specifications

Motorola recently released the Edge+ 2023 in Europe, which was later launched in India and China under different names. This has led to speculation that the Moto Edge 2023 may be a modified version of the Edge 40.

A Rebadged Edge 40?

If the Edge 2023 turns out to be a rebranded version of the Edge 40, it will have a 6.55-inch OLED display with a 144Hz refresh rate, FHD+ resolution, and HDR+ support. It will be powered by a Dimensity 8020 chipset and have a 4,400mAh battery that supports 68W wired charging and 15W wireless charging. The phone will have a vegan leather back and be IP68 water and dust resistant.

Remembering the Moto Edge 2022

As stated already, the Motorola Edge 2023 will succeed the Motorola Edge 2022. To recall, the Edge 2022 was powered by an octa-core Dimensity 1050 SoC, paired with 8GB of RAM and 256GB of internal storage. The smartphone offered a triple-camera setup consisting of a 50MP primary camera, a 13MP ultra-wide lens, and a 2MP depth sensor. On the front, a 32MP selfie camera captured clear self-portraits. The device included a 5,000mAh battery, 30W fast charging, 15W wireless charging, 5W reverse charging, an in-display fingerprint sensor, and an IP52 rating for water and dust resistance.

More information about the device's specifications is expected to be released when it appears on benchmarking websites or receives certifications.

Via

Source

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Russia's FSB Says Stopped Illegal Activity of Informant of US Embassy in Moscow - Shonov

Sputnik News

20230828

MOSCOW, (Sputnik) - The Russian Federal Security Service (FSB) said on Monday that it had stopped the illegal activities of the informant of the US Embassy in Moscow and an ex-employee of the US Consulate General in Vladivostok, Russian citizen Robert Shonov.

Shonov faces charges related to alleged confidential collaboration with a foreign state or organization aimed at undermining Russia's national security, according to the Lefortovo court that prolonged his arrest for three more months in May.

"The Russian Federal Security Service stopped the illegal activities of an informant of the US Embassy in Moscow, a former employee of the US Consulate General in Vladivostok, Russian citizen Shonov Robert Robertovich, he was charged with committing a crime under article 275.1 of the criminal code of Russia 'Cooperation on a confidential basis with a foreign state,'" the FSB said in a statement.

Since September 2022 until the arrest in March 2023, Shonov had been carrying out tasks of the employees of the political department of the US Embassy in Moscow, Jeffrey Sillin and David Bernstein for material reward, the statement read. In particular, he was instructed to "collect information on the progress of the special military operation, mobilization processes in the regions of Russia, on problematic moments and assess their influence on the protest activity of the population on the eve of the presidential elections in Russia in 2024."

The two US diplomats are to be interrogated in the case of informant Shonov, the FSB said, adding that in this regard, corresponding subpoenas have been sent to the embassy in Moscow.

A Sputnik

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US Navy official asks Washington's allies to 'challenge' China

Iran Press TV

Sunday, 27 August 2023 11:01 PM

A senior US Navy official advised Washington's allies to challenge what he called "aggressive behavior" by China following a reported incident involving China's coastguard and a Philippines vessel in the South China Sea.

Vice Admiral Karl Thomas, commander of the US Navy's Seventh Fleet, made the remarks to Reuters during a port call in Manila on Sunday.

Earlier this month, the Chinese coastguard reportedly blocked Philippine vessels carrying supplies to Filipino military personnel stationed on a grounded World War II warship, which Manila has intentionally grounded on a shoal in the South China Sea.

China claims sovereignty over almost the entire South China Sea, which overlaps with the waters of Malaysia, Vietnam, Brunei, Taiwan, and the Philippines. Beijing has repeatedly called for the Philippines to remove the warship -- which Manila uses as a makeshift military base -- and "restore it to its unoccupied state."

Using the alleged incident as an example, the American official said, "You have to challenge people I would say operating in a grey zone. When they're taking a little bit more and more and pushing you, you've got to push back, you have to sail and operate."

"There's really no better example of aggressive behavior than the activity on 5 August on the shoal," he alleged.

Thomas assured the Philippines of US backing in the face of "shared challenges" in the region, saying, "My forces are out here for a reason."

China has consistently opposed military activity by other countries in the strategic waterway, through which $5 trillion in goods are shipped yearly.

However, defying the Chinese warnings, Washington continually sent military vessels to the waters, prompting protests from Beijing.

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Zimbabwe's president dismisses allegations of vote fraud

Iran Press TV

Sunday, 27 August 2023 10:10 PM

Zimbabwe's re-elected president Emmerson Mnangagwa has dismissed allegations of electoral fraud from the opposition after winning a second term in office.

Mnangagwa, who took over from longtime leader Robert Mugabe after a 2017 army coup, suggested on Sunday that anyone questioning the result of last week's election take their case to court.

The Zimbabwe Electoral Commission, whose members are chosen by the president, announced late Saturday that President Mnangagwa has won a second five-year term with more than 52 percent of the vote.

According to the commission's results, opposition candidate Nelson Chamisa garnered just 44 percent.

Chamisa, who heads the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC), and his party reject the election results. "They stole your voice and vote but never your hope. It's a blatant and gigantic fraud," Chamisa wrote Sunday on X, formerly known as Twitter.

Addressing the media later at a news conference, Chamisa said Zimbabwe was suffering through a "vicious cycle of disputed elections" and accused Mnangagwa, who first came to power following a military takeover in 2017, of staging a "coup" against the ballot.

In the meantime, the ZANU-PF denies it has an unfair advantage or seeks to influence the outcome of elections through rigging.

Mnangagwa, who heads the ZANU-PF, welcomed the results of the election which he said was peaceful and demonstrated the country's democracy was "mature".

However, an observer team from the Southern African Development Community (SADC) said voting was peaceful but noted issues including voting delays, the banning of rallies, biased state media coverage and the failure of the electoral commission to give candidates access to the voters' roll.

Addressing a press conference in Harare, ZANU-PF spokesman Christopher Mutsvangwa dismissed criticisms by the SADC and other international observers.

This is Mnangagwa's second and possibly last term as the constitution limits presidential terms to two. Mnangagwa also narrowly defeated Chamisa in the last presidential election in 2018. The opposition alleged that the election was rigged, but the constitutional court upheld the result.

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Saudi Arabia Assumes Command of Coalition Task Force Sentinel

US Navy

27 August 2023

From U.S. Naval Forces Central Command Public Affairs

MANAMA, Bahrain -- The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia assumed command of a multinational task force that monitors merchant shipping through key strategic chokepoints during an indoor ceremony here Aug. 27.

Royal Saudi Navy Commodore Saleh Aloufi assumed command of Coalition Task Force Sentinel from U.K. Royal Navy Commodore Peter Laughton. CTF Sentinel is the operational task force for the International Maritime Security Construct, an 11-nation international naval partnership.

This change of command ushered in the turnover of CTF Sentinel's leadership to regional partners. Laughton remains commander of the IMSC headquarters element.

"I could not think of a finer commander to take the helm of CTF Sentinel, and it is entirely right that the task force transitions to regional leadership," said Laughton. "CTF Sentinel exemplifies the collective power of IMSC's multinational partnerships, and these partnerships will continue to grow under Commodore Aloufi's leadership."

Aloufi has served in the Royal Saudi Navy for nearly 20 years and most recently was the commanding officer of the Western Fleet Training Center.

"It is an honor to lead CTF Sentinel through such a pivotal moment in its history," said Aloufi. "I look forward to working with our multinational team to ensure the free flow of commerce is protected throughout the region."

Headquartered in Bahrain, IMSC was established in September 2019 and promotes collaboration among member nations to deter threats and reassure regional mariners in and around the Strait of Hormuz and Bab al-Mandeb. Its operational task force, CTF Sentinel, was established a few months later to patrol maritime activity in the region. Current members include Albania, Bahrain, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Romania, Saudi Arabia, Seychelles, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom and United States.

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Army's top two uniformed leaders visit new APS-2 storage, maintenance complex in Poland

By Cameron Porter, 405th AFSB Public Affairs OfficerAugust 28, 2023

POWIDZ, Poland -- The vice chief of staff and the sergeant major of the Army toured the 405th Army Field Support Brigade's Long Term Equipment Storage and Maintenance-Complex in Powidz, Aug. 26, and received an LTESM-C capabilities briefing at the facility.

During the site visit, Gen. Randy George - who was nominated in April to be the next chief of staff of the Army and is currently the acting CSA - clearly recognized the state-of-the-art Army Prepositioned Stocks-2 storage and maintenance complex as a model for future APS-2 facilities, said Joseph Scheff, the 405th AFSB deputy to the commander.

"General George said [the LTESM-C] undoubtedly demonstrates our key APS-2 capabilities with our NATO allies and partners," Scheff added.

George and Sgt. Maj. of the Army Michael Weimer were led around the LTESM-C by Scheff and other leaders and key personnel, to include the commanding generals of the 4th Infantry Division and the 21st Theater Sustainment Command as well as representatives from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Europe District and U.S. Army Europe and Africa headquarters.

The 21st TSC's top leader, Brig. Gen. Ronald Ragin, focused his discussion with George and Weimer on the LTESM-C's key strategic capabilities for power projection, stressing maintenance readiness, rail, air and roadway access, plus fuel and ammunition capabilities. Scheff focused his discussion on APS-2 operations and the timeline for LTESM-C occupation.

The LTESM-C is NATO's biggest single infrastructure investment in more than three decades. Its capabilities were unveiled in April during a ceremony attended by U.S. Ambassador to Poland Mark Brzenzinski, Deputy Prime Minister of Poland Mariusz Blaszczak, and other senior officials and leaders in the region.

Once fully operational, the LTESM-C will host an entire modernized armored brigade combat team's worth of APS-2 tactical vehicles and combat equipment. At that point, the 405th AFSB will activate a new battalion - Army Field Support Battalion-Poland - and it will assume mission command of the complex.

George took time while visiting the LTESM-C to recognize two 405th AFSB personnel, presenting coins for excellence to David Griffiths and David Luntz. Griffiths, a 405th AFSB logistics management specialist, was recognized for his work at the LTESM-C plus additional Poland planning logistical support. Luntz, the 405th AFSB's director of support operations, was recognized for his efforts supporting the 405th AFSB's "Pivot to Poland" mission and linked objectives.

In addition to visiting the LTESM-C, George and Weimer also traveled to the 405th AFSB's APS-2 worksite in Mannheim, Germany, and the 405th AFSB's Remote Maintenance and Distribution Cell-Ukraine in Poland.

"The team really came together to develop our messaging and plan our approach with these two key Army leaders. Lieutenant Colonel Jennifer Marin took the lead planning our every move and synchronizing our efforts across the 405th AFSB and with our partners at the 21st TSC," Scheff said. "Our Battalion Mannheim team was well prepared to showcase their efforts supporting current operations in Europe and generating readiness across the theater. Overall, the team provided a seamless overview for the chief and SMA."

Comprised of 650,000 square feet of humidity-controlled warehouse space, a vehicle maintenance facility and supporting facilities, and 58,000 square feet of munitions storage - the LTESM-C demonstrates the commitment and investment of the U.S. with Poland and NATO through enduring agreements to posture resources for rapid deployment and deter potential adversaries.

The 405th AFSB's APS-2 program in the U.S. European Command area of operations enhances the U.S. military's ability to rapidly and dynamically employ forces within theater, vastly improving NATO's deterrence capabilities and readiness posture, reducing deployment timelines, and providing additional combat power for contingency operations. APS-2 equipment may also be drawn for use in training and exercises. The 405th AFSB's APS-2 program and the LTESM-C help to assure allies and partners that the U.S. is committed to the collective defense of Europe.

The 405th AFSB is assigned to U.S. Army Sustainment Command and under the operational control of the 21st TSC, U.S. Army Europe and Africa. The brigade is headquartered in Kaiserslautern, Germany, and provides materiel enterprise support to U.S. Forces throughout Europe and Africa - providing theater sustainment logistics; synchronizing acquisition, logistics and technology; and leveraging U.S. Army Materiel Command's materiel enterprise to support joint forces.

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August 28, 2023

By Joseph Clark , DOD News

Hicks Underscores U.S. Innovation in Unveiling Strategy to Counter China's Military Buildup

Ingenuity and innovation remain at the heart of the U.S. military's strategic advantage as it confronts the pressing challenges in the Indo-Pacific, Deputy Secretary of Defense Kathleen Hicks said today as she unveiled the Defense Department's initiative aimed at directly countering the People's Republic of China's rapid buildup of its armed forces.

Hicks said as China focuses on the sheer mass of its military, the U.S. will "out-match adversaries by out-thinking, out-strategizing and out-maneuvering them."

Under the strategy, coined by Hicks as the replicator initiative, the Defense Department will field thousands of autonomous systems across multiple domains within the next 18 to 24 months.

Hicks revealed the strategy during her remarks at the National Defense Industrial Association's Emerging Technologies for Defense conference in Washington.

"Replicator is meant to help us overcome the PRC's biggest advantage, which is mass," she said. "More ships. More missiles. More people."

She said, through the initiative, the U.S. will augment its manufacturing and mobilization capabilities "with our real comparative advantage, which is the innovation and spirit of our people."

Even when mobilizing the U.S. economy and manufacturing base, rarely has the U.S. relied solely on its ability to match adversaries' scale alone, Hicks said.

"To stay ahead, we're going to create a new state of the art  just as America has before  leveraging attritable, autonomous systems in all domains  which are less expensive, put fewer people in the line of fire and can be changed, updated or improved with substantially shorter lead times," she said.

In doing so, Hicks said, the U.S. will counter the PRC's buildup, with "mass of our own," that will be more difficult for adversaries to plan for and beat.

"With smart people, smart concepts and smart technology, our military will be more nimble, with uplift and urgency from the commercial sector," she said.

The Defense Department has long invested in autonomous systems - including self-piloting ships and no-crew aircraft.

Hicks said those systems have proven to be lower cost alternatives to manned platforms and can be produced "closer to the tactical edge."

"So now is the time to take all-domain, attritable autonomy to the next level: to produce and deliver capabilities to warfighters at the volume and velocity required to deter aggression, or win if we're forced to fight," she said.

Attritable capabilities refer to platforms that are unmanned and built affordably, allowing commanders to tolerate a higher degree of risk in employing them.

Under Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III, defense leaders have deemed the PRC to be the United States' "pacing challenge."

The 2022 National Defense Strategy underscores the PRC's efforts to expand and modernize "nearly every aspect" of the People's Liberation Army as it aims to offset U.S. military advantages in the Indo-Pacific and, increasingly, around the globe.

Navy Adm. John C. Aquilino, commander of the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, further highlighted the PRC's military buildup during his remarks at Wednesday's conference.

"They have focused very clearly on delivering a force capable to take on the United States," Aquilino said.

"We ought to look at the Chinese to understand truly where they are and what they're doing: the largest military buildup since World War II, both in conventional forces and in strategic nuclear [forces]," he said.

Aquilino said while the buildup is concerning, the U.S. focus on competing with the PRC is critical.

"The Deputy's words on the delivery of outcomes with speed is encouraging," he said.

Hicks said during her remarks that the replicator initiative is focused not only on production, but on the whole-of-department approach to innovation and the ability to quickly field technology.

"[W]hen the time is right, and when we apply enough leadership, energy, urgency and depth of focus, we can get it done," she said. "That's what America does.

"We must ensure the PRC leadership wakes up every day, considers the risks of aggression and concludes, 'today is not the day'  and not just today, but every day, between now and 2027, 2035, 2049 and beyond," Hicks said.

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Ministry of the Interior report: Most civil defence shelters in Finland are in good condition but some shelter equipment needs maintenance

Finnish Government

Ministry of the Interior

28.8.2023 13.58

Press release

Finland's civil defence shelters are largely in good repair, but there is still some need for maintenance and repairs. A new Ministry of the Interior study shows that more than 90 per cent of civil defence shelters would provide people with good protection against the effects of conventional weapons. Shelter equipment is in most need of repair. Based on the report, the Ministry of the Interior has drawn up four recommendations for improving the network of civil defence shelters. Finland is not currently facing a military threat.

The Ministry of the Interior's study examined the number, regional distribution and condition of civil defence shelters. Data on the number and regional distribution was published in February 2023. Of the civil defence shelters examined in the study, 91 per cent met the assessment criteria for the effects of conventional weapons and 83 per cent for gas and radiation hazards caused by the effects of weapons.

"Finnish civil defence shelters and their equipment are reliable and have a long lifecycle. However, a small number of shelters are in a state of repair that would prevent their deployment within the 72-hour time limit required by law. There are several reasons for this. For example, the repair of a sewer shut-off valve could not be completed within 72 hours," says Project Manager Ira Pasi from the Ministry of the Interior.

The study examined the records of 245 regular inspections of civil defence shelters. In addition, the study included qualitative survey questions for property owners and those making the regular inspections, and interviews of experts at rescue departments.

Sustained construction of shelters has laid the foundation for the Finnish system of civil defence shelters. Finland has around 50,500 civil defence shelters with space for 4.8 million people. In general, older shelters have more repair needs.

Problems with shelter maintenance are often caused by negligence and lack of information

Deficiencies in civil defence shelters are often caused by neglect of regular maintenance, errors in planning or installation, and errors in alteration, repair and use of shelters.

During the study, property owners also expressed uncertainty about the maintenance and deployment of shelters.

"For example, the civil defence shelter administrator, if one has been appointed, is often a third-party property manager. This person, who should manage the shelter deployment, may be responsible for several properties," says Pasi.

There are three root causes for the poor maintenance, and for the consequent deficiencies, of civil defence shelters: knowledge and skills, attitudes and motivation.

"In Finland, we are fortunate that civil defence shelters have been built on a statutory basis over the decades. If this was not the case, it would very difficult to fix. Now we can correct many deficiencies by repairing existing equipment, buying new equipment and supplies, and providing more information," Pasi notes.

The owner and the occupant of the building are jointly responsible for maintenance, repairs and the drawing up of the emergency plan.

"The technology and structures of Finnish civil defence shelters are hard-wearing and remain in good condition, even where maintenance has been regularly neglected. During normal conditions, even if the maintenance has not been carried out for a long time, the civil defence shelter can be made operational with reasonable measures," Pasi says.

The law requires appropriate maintenance and inspection of shelter equipment and tools. The statutory time limit for shelter deployment is 72 hours.

Appropriate maintenance prevents rapid ageing of equipment and tools and is more cost-efficient than making large repairs. Under emergency conditions, repairing all civil defence shelters at once or purchasing the equipment would be impossible anyway.

"Over the decades, Finland has built up a civil defence infrastructure worth billions of euros. It is worth looking after," says Pasi.

Recommendations for improving the shelter system

Based on the study, the Ministry has drawn up four recommendations:

Improve education and training concerning civil defence shelters. Develop the guidelines and communications related to civil defence shelters. Reform the legal provisions on civil defence shelters and improve national guidance. Review the regional distribution of shelters as part of the overall system of civil defence.

For more information on the recommendations, please see the report.

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EU defence ministers to hold an informal meeting in Toledo

Finnish Ministry of Defence

28.08.2023 16:19

The defence ministers of the European Union will convene for an informal meeting in Toledo, Spain on 29-30 August 2023. Janne Kuusela, Director General of the Defence Policy Department of the Ministry of Defence, will represent Finland on behalf of Minister of Defence Antti Hakkanen.

The ministers will discuss Russia's invasion of Ukraine and its regional and global impacts.The agenda includes the EU's military support to Ukraine as part of the EU's security commitments to Ukraine, including the current situation of the EU Military Assistance Mission in support of Ukraine (EUMAM Ukraine) and the next steps. The ministers will also discuss supporting Ukraine with artillery munitions from Member States' stockpiles and through joint procurement of artillery munitions. In addition, the regulation for reinforcing the capacity of European defence industries as well as the European Peace Facility are on the agenda.

Finally, the ministers will discuss other topical issues, such as the EU's military missions and operations in Africa and the Western Balkans and the development of the EU's rapid response capabilities.

A meeting of the EU Satellite Centre (SatCen) will also be held in connection with the ministerial meeting. The SatCen meeting will focus on the consequences of the growth of the Centre's activities for its budget and staff, the Centre's continued involvement in rapid technological development and its access to satellite image sources.

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3/7 prepares to fight, sustain, defend urban terrain in the conflicts of tomorrow during SLTE 5-23

US Marine Corps News

28 Aug 2023 | Cpl. Jonathan Willcox Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms

MARINE CORPS AIR-GROUND COMBAT CENTER, CALIF. -- U.S. Marines with 3rd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, conducted Adversary Force Exercise as part of Service Level Training Exercise 5-23, Aug. 6, 2023.

During AFX 5-23, Marines, Sailors and allied forces trained in urban combat at Marine Corps Air-Ground Combat Center's range 220, the largest urban warfare facility the Marine Corps has to offer. This iteration of the exercise is designed to enhance a unit's proficiency of urban defense tactics and logistics in a contested environment.

"AFX started out with urban lane training and went all the way up to the company level for defense in an urban environment," said Gunnery Sgt. Neil Lipon, company gunnery sergeant for Kilo Company, 3/7. "We're getting our unit ready for combat, getting ready to face any force."

Force Design 2030 aims to make the Marine Corps a lighter, more agile fighting force, capable of conducting rapid amphibious insertions around the globe. The guidance is built to transition Marines from the mentality of previous wars to a modernized force in preparation to defend the United States of America and her partners and allies from potential peer adversaries.

"A large percentage of the world's population lives in littoral regions," Lipon continued. "A lot of those littoral regions we'd find ourselves in are urbanized, and that's where we may fight in the near future."

Lipon added that Marines will be expected to operate in company-sized units in future conflicts. They can be tasked to seize and defend island and coastal territory on their own, while overcoming the friction of operating in urban environments.

"It's something that could be very near in the future, and it's something we need to be ready to operate in," Lipon added.

Marine Air-Ground Task Force Training Command provided Marines to act as opposition against the Marines of 3/7 so they could train against able-bodied, intelligent minded individuals who employed real-world tactics designed to mimic potential future adversaries. The Marines used blank ammunition to ensure the safety of their fellow service members, while the combat instructors, better known as Coyotes, with Tactical Training and Exercise Control Group, Marine Air-Ground Task Force Training Command, observed and controlled the simulated battlefield as the Marines advanced.

"We have lanes that we will train on with opposing forces and then we will have force-on-force exercises that we'll run, simulating fighting an actual thinking enemy," said 1st Lt. Thomas Nelson, executive officer with Kilo Company, 3/7.

The Marines of 3/7 seized urban terrain using amphibious, mechanized tactics while they fought alongside Marines crewing P7 amphibious assault vehicles from 3rd Amphibious Assault Battalion, 1st Marine Division. Once 3/7 seized the terrain, they built defensive positions with sandbags. Concertina wire was installed by the Marines of 1st Combat Engineer Battalion, 1st Marine Division, who were also embedded with the 3/7 Marines. The opposing force provided by TTECG was present for both, defending their own positions from 3/7 and then counter-attacking.

"Urban warfare is one of the most challenging environments that we will find ourselves in," said Lipon. "You have that 360-environment encompassing everywhere from subterrain levels, street levels, rooftop levels and even into the air space. You basically have threats all around you, and your own fields of fire are very limited, units can get spread out, and communication becomes difficult."

Lipon explained that Marines gradually increase their unit level of training to slowly build their capabilities of working with each other. They work together focusing on moving properly in and around buildings in an urban environment to minimize casualties and maximize lethality.

"Just like anything we do, we start with the basics and work our way up," continued Lipon.

The training allowed Marines to practice sustainment in a simulated combat environment, preparing for the defense of secured territory. The key to sustaining forces in an operational setting is logistics. Transported goods such as food, water, fuel and ammunition allow troops to continue the fight. Logistic support is needed to permit Marines to keep pressure on opposing forces. Force Design 2030 brings Marines closer than ever to the front line for major military operations. Therefore, the Marines must also prepare to move and protect logistics as it closes in on active combat zones.

"Anywhere, even if it wasn't an urban environment, will prove a challenge when defending logistics in a contested space," Lipon said. "They're always going to be contested.

"We can only carry so much on our backs, so the logistical supplies are going to have to follow us soon after we get into combat."

He stated that at the company level, it becomes more difficult for Marines to hold the supply lines as they rely on amphibious, air or mechanized support to deliver their supplies as the Marine's continue their mission. Training for logistics requires significant effort from not only the line elements, but the command elements to properly plan logistical needs to avoid being compromised in a real-world scenario.

"Whenever we go up against a peer adversary, they'll know to hit our supply lines, so planning logistics is equally as important as battle tactics when going into a combat environment," Lipon added.

Marines from the Republic of Korea Marine Corps joined 3/7 in AFX 5-23, allowing Marines to prepare to work side-by-side with their allies from the Korean peninsula. US and ROK forces trained to understand each other's tactics and learn from each other to maximize effectiveness and promote deterrence against aggression from any potential adversaries.

"The training with the ROK Marine Corps strengthens the bond between us by allowing them to come over and see how we operate," Nelson said. "We do the same, seeing how they do things, and then we both exchange tactics, techniques and procedures, understanding each other a little bit better."

Nelson explained that when U.S. and ROK Marines are deployed together in real world scenarios, they will need to work closely together. Therefore, they train today to make their combined capabilities in future battles as effective as possible.

"For this training, we will integrate into each other's platoons, so when combat comes, we can work seamlessly together."

MCAGCC is the largest training base in the Marines Corps and can accommodate large scale operations that allow Marines to receive realistic combined arms training. From the Marine infantry taking cities, to commanders laying out battleplans and balancing logistical requirements, The Combat Center offers the perfect location for events such as AFX 5-23.

"Here at MCAGCC we have some of the best training environments I've seen, with ranges such as Range 220 being a full-fledged city the Marines can train in," Lipon explained. "Getting the opportunity to operate in that environment is very beneficial for the Marines."

MCAGCC allows Marines, sister branches and foreign allies, from the higher echelons of command to the front-line units in the field, to train together so they will be ready for the wars of the future.

"The support we get from units like TTECG to help us run these training events creates a lot more opportunities for the Marines to learn," Lipon said.

AFX is one of many exercises that constantly tests Marines and those that will work with them. This training has allowed the participants to sharpen any skills necessary when it comes to operating in urban environments while using MCAGCC's Range 220. The Marines improved their skills while defending their positions and ensuring their capability to remain in the fight for however long they need to, against any enemy, foreign or domestic, in every clime and place.

"If the enemy was sitting right here in front of me," Lipon explained, "I'd tell them it's not just our weapon systems we have, it's not the fancy gear we have. The mindset, adaptability and ingenuity of that young Marine out there. That's what's going to win."

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Macron shrugs off ultimatum, says French envoy to stay in Niger

Iran Press TV

Monday, 28 August 2023 6:15 PM

President Emmanuel Macron has said France's ambassador to Niger will stay in the coup-hit African country despite an ultimatum by the new military leaders to leave.

During a speech to diplomats in Paris on Monday, Macron confirmed that Sylvain Itte was listening in from Niamey. The ambassador was given a 48-hour deadline to leave Niger on Friday.

The president, however, admitted the failure of France's policies across various parts of Africa.

"France and its diplomats have faced particularly difficult situations in some countries in recent months, from Sudan, where France has been exemplary, to Niger at this very moment and I applaud your colleague and your colleagues who are listening from their posts."

The new military rulers say the ambassador refused to meet with them. They say the French government's behavior is "contrary to the interests of Niger."

Macron reiterated France's support for Niger's ousted President Mohamed Bazoum. He dismissed calls from some in the United States and Europe for Western powers to give up on Bazoum.

"I think our policy is the right one. It's based on the courage of President Bazoum, and on the commitments of our ambassador on the ground who is remaining despite all the pressure, despite all the declarations made by the illegitimate authorities."

"We do not recognize those who have carried out the putsch, we support a president who has not stepped down, and besides whom we remain engaged."

Macron accused the military rulers of "abandoning the fight against (the so-called) terrorism."

Anti-French sentiment growing across Africa

The impoverished Sahel region, which lies south of the Sahara, has suffered a series of coups in recent years. Military administrations have replaced pro-Western leaders in Mali, Burkina Faso and Guinea as well as Niger.

The upheavals have led to the creation of new military governments hostile to France, a former colonial power in West Africa that has troops across the region.

Germany is also concerned about the anti-French mood in Niger. "We are concerned that the military is stirring things up against the French and we are keeping a watchful eye on things," Foreign Ministry spokesman Christian Wagner told a government press conference on Monday.

Earlier this month, the military rulers scrapped a series of Niger's cooperation agreements with France in a bid to bring to a close the French military presence across the country and the subsequent looting of the resources of the impoverished nation.

France has between 1,000 and 1,500 troops in Niger, who are claiming to be fighting the so-called war on terrorism. In Niger, there are not only French forces but American and European soldiers as well.

Burkina Faso and Mali have already expelled French troops, many of whom are now stationed in Niger.

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Biden to visit Vietnam next month

The US president will stop over in Hanoi on his way back from the G-20 leaders meeting in New Delhi.

By Alex Willemyns for RFA 2023.08.28 -- U.S. President Joe Biden will visit Vietnam on his way home from the G-20 summit in New Delhi next month, the White House said Monday.

After the G-20 summit on Sept. 9, Biden will fly into Hanoi on Sept. 10 and depart the same day to attend a ceremony in Alaska marking 22 years since the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, a statement said.

"While in Hanoi, President Biden will meet with General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong and other key leaders to discuss ways to further deepen cooperation between the United States and Vietnam," it said.

"The leaders will explore opportunities to promote the growth of a technology-focused and innovation-driven Vietnamese economy, expand our people-to-people ties through education exchanges and workforce development programs, combat climate change, and increase peace, prosperity, and stability in the region."

The visit to Hanoi comes amid criticism that Biden is shirking the U.S.-ASEAN leaders summit in Jakarta just days before the G-20 event - Vice President Kamala Harris is attending in his stead - but also amid rumors the United States and Vietnam plan to upgrade ties.

The visit will be the first dedicated trip to Vietnam by a U.S. president since Barack Obama's trip in May 2016. That was criticized at the time for setting aside human rights concerns for strategic reasons as the Obama administration, of which Biden was the vice president, courted stronger relations with Hanoi in the face of a rising China.

Former President Donald Trump twice visited the country while in office, but both times were primarily for other reasons: an APEC summit in November 2017 and his second summit on neutral soil with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un in February 2019.

Copyright 1998-2023, RFA. Used with the permission of Radio Free Asia, 2025 M St. NW, Suite 300, Washington DC 20036. For any commercial use of RFA content please send an email to: mahajanr@rfa.org. RFA content August not be used in a manner which would give the appearance of any endorsement of any product or support of any issue or political position. Please read the full text of our Terms of Use.

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EU Eyes Expulsion of French Ambassador From Niger as 'Provocation' That Won't Help Crisis

Sputnik News

20230828

BRUSSELS (Sputnik) - The European Union considers the Nigerien military leaders' decision to order French Ambassador Sylvain Itte out of the country a "provocation" that does not contribute to a diplomatic settlement of the crisis in Niger, the European External Action Service (EEAS) said on Monday.

Last Friday, the Nigerien Foreign Ministry requested Itte to leave the country within 48 hours. Paris said it had taken note of Niger's request, but believes military leadership have no authority to make such decisions.

French President Emmanuel Macron said Monday that Itte would remain in Niger despite the rebels' demands.

"The ... decision to order France's ambassador out of the country is a new provocation that will not contribute to finding a diplomatic settlement of the current crisis. The European Union expresses its full support for France's ambassador," the EEAS said in a statement.

The EU will never recognize the military leadership's government in Niger, the statement also read.

On July 26, Nigerien President Mohamed Bazoum was ousted and detained by his own guard, led by Gen. Abdourahamane Tchiani. France condemned the military takeover, supporting "the legitimate government" of its former colony.

The military, on their part, halted gold and uranium exports to France, blocked French media and denounced several defense pacts with Paris.

Additionally, they demanded in mid-August that French forces leave the country by early September. Mass rallies demanding the complete withdrawal of French troops from Niger have been taking place in the country ever since.

 Sputnik

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Macron: France to Support ECOWAS Military Effort Against Niger

Sputnik News

20230828

MOSCOW (Sputnik) - Paris condemns the attempts by the US and several other countries to contact the Nigerien military authorities who had displaced President Mohamed Bazoum, French President Emmanuel Macron said on Monday.

"I often hear from other capitals that France is too much involved in supporting [ousted Nigerien President Mohamed] Bazoum. But what would we do if such a coup took place in Romania or Bulgaria? Would it be right if we just say, 'We were offered a prime minister so we will work with him? We shouldn't dig our heels in, it's not our country.' This is unacceptable," Macron said at the annual conference of France's ambassadors in Paris.

Paris will continue to support Bazoum and will not recognize the rebels' government, the French leader said. Neither will the French ambassador leave Niger as was demanded by the military leaders, he said.

"I hear it from Washington and other capitals, 'Don't get too involved, it is getting dangerous.' No, our position must be clear and consistent. Otherwise, what African capital would ever listen to us when we say that we support the policy of partnership?" Macron said, adding "France will not allow either paternalism or weakness in the Sahel region, otherwise we will have to pull out from it completely."

The French leader reiterated Paris' support for the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) in all its decisions on restoring the constitutional order in Niger.

"We support ECOWAS' diplomatic as well as military efforts once such a decision in taken," he said.

On August 7, acting US Deputy Secretary of State Victoria Nuland traveled to Niger and met with the rebel-appointed chief of staff, Moussa Salaou Barmou, and three of his colonels in Niamey. She described the talks with them as "frank and difficult." On August 19, new US Ambassador Kathleen FitzGibbon arrived in Niger, but the US Department of State said she would not formally present her credentials due to "the current political crisis" in the country.

The takeover occurred in Niger on July 26 during which President Bazoum was ousted and detained by his own guard, led by Gen. Abdourahamane Tchiani. Following the power shift, the ECOWAS suspended all financial aid to Niger, froze rebels' assets and imposed a ban on commercial flights to and from the country. In early August, during a summit in the Nigerian capital of Abuja, ECOWAS leaders agreed to activate a standby force to potentially compel the Nigerien military to reinstate Bazoum. On Friday, ECOWAS Commissioner for Political Affairs Abdel-Fatau Musah said that ECOWAS general staff chiefs had agreed on a date for the beginning of military intervention, but would not make it public.

 Sputnik

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MINUSMA's withdrawal takes place amid a deteriorating context of terrorist violence and human rights violations: UK statement at the Security Council

Statement by Ambassador James Kariuki at the UN Security Council meeting on Mali.

28 August 2023

Thank you, President. I thank SRSG Wane for his briefing and I pay tribute to the courage of all UN personnel in Mali, who continue to face constant threats. I also thank Ms Abouya for sharing her valuable perspective with us today.

The complexity of MINUSMA's withdrawal is unprecedented and takes place amid a deteriorating context of terrorist violence and human rights violations and abuses, including an upward trend in conflict-related sexual violence.

The Council mandated MINUSMA to conduct a safe and orderly withdrawal, with the objective of completing this process by 31 December 2023. We continue to believe that the Council should stand ready to revise this timetable if needed. A rushed withdrawal that imperils the 2015 Algiers Agreement and puts peacekeepers' lives at risk will have security implications for the whole region. The recent ceasefire violations in Ber demonstrate the pressing need for meaningful, structured dialogue between all parties to the Peace Agreement prior to the handover of MINUSMA sites, in particular in Kidal region.

President, the UN continues to have a formal and critical role in supporting the Peace Agreement in Mali. We welcome the Secretary-General's transition plan, which is an important step to help guide efforts to preserve the legacy of the mission and its achievements over the last decade.

We call on the UN to redouble its efforts to support meaningful consultations and mediation between all parties to the Peace Agreement, and we urge all parties to engage in dialogue in good faith. To deliver the UN's ongoing role in support of the peace process, the UK supports the continued presence of a UN entity dedicated to supporting an inclusive peace process in Mali.

President, we strongly urge the Transitional Authorities to engage with the UN's proposals for ongoing support, for the benefit of the Malian people. The UN should accelerate consultations with Mali on a detailed strategy for the future of UN support to the Peace Agreement and other key tasks, including delivering on the political transition and the protection and the promotion of human rights.

Finally, as we've said before in this Council, the Russian mercenary group Wagner is directly linked to human rights atrocities in Mali, including the systematic use of conflict-related sexual violence. As illustrated by recent events in Russia, they are part of the problem, not the solution in Mali and beyond.

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Investigations Continue into Fatal US Military Aircraft Crash in Australia

By Phil Mercer August 28, 2023

Several investigations are underway after three U.S. Marines died in an aircraft crash during military drills off the coast of Darwin in Australia's Northern Territory.

The MV-22B Osprey vertical take-off aircraft crashed in dense forest Sunday on Melville Island, about 80 kilometers north of the Australian mainland.

Onboard were members of the U.S. military, who were taking part in Exercise Predators Run, a series of war drills involving 2,500 troops from Australia, the Philippines, East Timor and Indonesia.

Australia's Department of Defense said the exercise was suspended while emergency evacuations were underway Sunday.

Northern Territory Police Commissioner Michael Murphy told reporters that all injured Marines who had been onboard the tilt-rotor helicopter had been taken back to the mainland.

They were treated at the Royal Darwin Hospital, which went to its highest alert level in response to the crash. Authorities Monday said one Marine remained in critical condition, while four others were seriously injured.

Last month, four Australian airmen died when an army Taipan helicopter ditched into the sea during exercises near Hamilton Island, a popular tourist destination north of Brisbane. At the time, Australian officials said the military drills were necessary but dangerous.

Speaking to the Australian Broadcasting Corp. Monday, Australian Defense Minister Richard Marles paid tribute to the sacrifice of military service men and women.

"This is a very tragic event," Marles said. "Obviously, we have been reminded ourselves of the risks involved in defense exercises and the costs that defense personnel pay and we are very much standing with the United States in this moment and doing everything we can to help."

U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin also expressed his sympathies to the Marines' family and colleagues in a social media post saying that they had served their country "with courage and pride."

This is the sixth fatal crash involving a U.S. Marine Osprey since 2012.

In recent years, the United States has increased its military cooperation with Australia, a key ally in the Pacific.

Formal defense ties between Washington and Canberra date back to the early 1950s.

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Sudan's Paramilitary Force Proposes Steps to End Conflict

By Mohammed Yusuf August 28, 2023

Sudan's paramilitary Rapid Support Forces has laid out conditions for ending its conflict with the country's army. The RSF says it wants a peaceful solution and a return to civilian government.

In a statement, the leader of Sudan's Rapid Support Forces, Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, said his group is ready to resolve the conflict with Sudan's Armed Forces peacefully, with a settlement that would lead to civilian rule.

Dagalo said he wants talks that would include political parties and civil society, aim to restructure Sudan's national army, and address the root causes of Sudan's wars.

Hala al-Karib, regional director of the Strategic Initiative for Women in the Horn of Africa, suggested Dagalo's comments are at least partially for show.

"It's kind of trying to appeal to the international community, to the regional actors ... they think that they can actually wash their crimes and what they have done by just showing up and say that," she said. "But the grievances are way too much, and the level of violence that has been happening in Sudan ... since April 15, you know, it's historical."

Karib said the RSF and others involved in the recent violence, abuse and atrocities must be punished for their crimes.

"Without very serious compromises from the RSF side, without them accepting responsibility for their crimes and accepting mechanisms of justice and coming clean about that ... even if an agreement was signed, that would be a recipe for another cycle of violence," she said.

The RSF's vision to end the more than four-month conflict through a negotiated settlement comes as Gen. Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, leader of the sovereign council and Sudan's Armed Forces, visited the coastal city of Port Sudan on Sunday, where he met government representatives and the United Nations officials and aid agencies who have set up a humanitarian base.

Dr. Edgar Githua, a lecturer at United States International University and Strathmore University specializing in international relations, peace and conflict, told VOA the emergence of Burhan in public is a sign he is afraid of being sidelined in the country's future.

"He's trying to also just gain acceptance, and its confidence building not only to himself but also to the international community," Githua said of Burhan. "And I have a feeling this conflict in Sudan is coming to a point where he is beginning to realize that the longer it prolongs, the longer he will isolate himself internationally. So, going forward, there will be overtures that we'll definitely try and bring about. He will be open to talks, discussions, and negotiations towards de-escalating the whole situation in Sudan."

Conflict between Sudan's Armed Forces and Rapid Support Forces broke out in April after the rival leaders failed to agree on how to lead the country to civilian rule. A power struggle ensued between Burhan and Dagalo, also known as Hemeti.

The warring parties sent delegates to Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, in an effort to reach an agreement, but talks were unsuccessful.

Githua said it will take time for talks to succeed.

"Eventually, at some point, Burhan and Dagalo will have to come in front of the international community and cameras to shake hands and bury the hatchet," he said. "But for now, if it's the representatives that are doing it, so be it. But I know Burhan will not want to meet with Dagalo anytime soon. He hates him and he considers him to be someone very junior and minor to him."

Karib said her country needs a peaceful settlement that will stop the war and suffering.

"I don't think the country can afford short-term solutions anymore. We have been on these cycles of short-term solutions for a very, very long time and failed agreements. And every agreement fails," she said. "It takes us to an atrocity and violence that's worse than the one before."

The ongoing conflict has resulted in over 4.6 million people being forced from their homes, and the U.N. says six million people are on the brink of famine.

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Analysts See Anti-Hezbollah Sentiment Rising in Lebanon

By Dale Gavlak August 28, 2023

Anti-Hezbollah sentiment is growing in Lebanon, especially among the country's Christian population following the continuing impasse over the election of a president and the recent death of a Lebanese Christian in a shootout with Hezbollah.

The Iran-backed Shiite Hezbollah political party enjoyed some degree of legitimacy in Lebanon because of its governing alliance with former President Michel Aoun's Christian Free Patriotic Movement, says Lebanese analyst Dania Koleilat Khatib.

But the relationship became strained over Hezbollah's repeated demand for Suleiman Frangieh to become president, a post traditionally held by a Christian. The Free Patriotic Movement and other Christian politicians have united to reject him. Although Frangieh is a Christian, he has aligned with Hezbollah and has close ties to Syrian President Bashar al-Assad.

Meanwhile, a truck full of Hezbollah weapons overturned in the Christian town of Kahale recently, sparking clashes between Hezbollah gunmen and residents. One Christian and one Hezbollah member were killed. These incidents are roiling Christians and other Lebanese who say they are fed up with Hezbollah's dominance and want to regain control, Khatib told VOA. Khatib is the president of the Research Center for Cooperation and Peace Building in Beirut.

"There is a big push back from Christians. It's not only the issue of president," Khatib said. "They feel their presence, their existence is being threatened. Hezbollah still doesn't realize that the show of power is creating a backlash. They still have the mentality: 'We are powerful. We don't need to compromise.'"

Khatib said some Lebanese have told her they want federalism to decrease Hezbollah's power while others say they want a state separate from Shiite power. They said they need arms to fight to divide the country because they cannot live with Hezbollah and its supporters.

Lebanese economist Nadim Shehadi, writing in Saudi Arabia's Arab News, said, "But not all federalists agree on the same formula or have the same rationale. The common theme is that, if we cannot live with an armed Hezbollah and we cannot fight it or disarm it, then the alternative is some degree of separation."

Michael Young of the Carnegie Middle East Center in Beirut said Hezbollah has done the Christian community repeated harm in the past three years.

"Christians hold the party responsible for the ammonium nitrate explosion at Beirut port in August 2020, which destroyed large swathes of Beirut's mostly Christian-majority quarters. Hezbollah is suspected of having stored the material," Young wrote in Dubai's The National newspaper.

Young said Hezbollah's claim that it protects Lebanon against Israel is wearing thin even among some in the Shiite community, as the militants use the threat of war against Israel to maintain its military and political control, while other Lebanese are wary of another civil war eruptin

"The sectarian pushback at home appears to have led the party to try reshaping the disintegrating Lebanese order around its interests," Young wrote. "This reflects hubris. As Hezbollah imposes its way, Lebanon's other communities will increasingly resist whatever the party initiates."

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French Ambassador Stays in Niger, Defying Junta Order to Leave

By VOA News August 28, 2023

French President Emmanuel Macron says France's ambassador to Niger is staying at his post despite being ordered to leave the country by Niger's new military leaders.

Macron told a gathering of French ambassadors in Paris Monday that Ambassador Sylvain Itte "is remaining despite pressure."

He also rejected concerns that standing up to the junta in Niger could be dangerous, insisting, "Our policy is the right one."

Itte was asked to leave Niger within 48 hours in a letter Friday from the Nigerian Foreign Ministry. The ultimatum was given after Itte refused to meet with the military leaders who ousted President Mohamed Bazoum in a coup in July.

Bazoum and his family have been detained by the military in the presidential palace.

Niger is a former French colony, and France still has 1,500 soldiers in the African country. They have helped Niger to fight jihadi forces.

Thousands of Nigeriens took to the streets of Niamey, the capital, Sunday to show their support for the military officers who deposed Bazoum.

France has not recognized Niger's new leaders, saying that Bazoum's government remains the only legitimate authority in Niger.

France has also agreed with the West African bloc ECOWAS and its calls for Bazoum's reinstatement.

Macron said Monday that France's policy "depends on the courage of President Mohamed Bazoum, the commitment of our diplomats, of our ambassador on the ground."

He dismissed the view of junta leaders who have blamed much of Niger's problems on its former colonial ruler.

"One shouldn't give in to the narrative used by the coup leaders that consists of saying France has become our enemy," Macron said.

Nigerian President Bola Tinubu, who is also the chair of ECOWAS, has been invited to meet with U.S. President Joe Biden next month on the sidelines of the U.N. General Assembly, where the two leaders are likely to discuss Niger.

ECOWAS has threatened to use military force in Niger to restore Bazoum to power.

Some information in this report came from The Associated Press, Reuters and Agence France-Presse.

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Whereabouts of French Ambassador to Niger Not Clear

By VOA News August 28, 2023

It was not clear Monday if the French ambassador to Niger had left the African country as he was ordered to do by the country's new leaders.

On Friday, Niger's foreign ministry said Sylvain Itte had 48 hours to leave. The ultimatum was given after Itte refused to meet with the military leaders who ousted President Mohamed Bazoum in a coup in July.

Bazoum and his family have been detained by the military in the presidential palace.

Niger is a former French colony, and France still has 1,500 soldiers in the African country. They have helped Niger to fight jihadi forces.

Thousands of Nigeriens took to the streets of Niamey, the capital, Sunday to show their support for the military officers who deposed Bazoum.

France has not recognized Niger's new leaders, saying that Bazoum's government remains the only legitimate authority in Niger.

France has also agreed with the West African bloc ECOWAS and its calls for Bazoum's reinstatement.

Nigerian President Bola Tinubu, who is also the chair of ECOWAS, has been invited to meet with U.S. President Joe Biden next month on the sidelines of the U.N. General Assembly, where the two leaders are likely to discuss Niger.

ECOWAS has threatened to use military force to restore Bazoum.

Some information in this report came from Agence France-Presse.

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UN Chief Calls for Peaceful Resolutions to Challenges About Zimbabwe's Presidential Election

By VOA News August 28, 2023

The U.N. Secretary General has called for peaceful and transparent resolutions to any challenges to the legitimacy of Zimbabwe's presidential election that returned Emmerson Mnangagwa to office.

Zimbabwe's elections commission said Saturday that President Emmerson Mnangagwa, who is 80, won approximately 53% of the votes, while Nelson Chamisa, 45, the leader of the opposition Citizens' Coalition for Change, garnered 44% of the ballots.

U.N. Secretary General Antonio Guterres "is concerned about the arrest of observers, reports of voter intimidation, threats of violence, harassment and coercion," according to his spokesperson Florencia Soto Nino.

While Chimisa said the election was a "blatant and gigantic fraud," Mnangagwa said the election was conducted "transparently, fairly in broad daylight."

Mnangagwa's win was another victory for the ZANU-PF party that has ruled the country since 1980 after obtaining independence from white rule.

International observers say the last week's election in the southern African country was held in an atmosphere of fear and intimidation.

Voters went to the polls on Wednesday and in some locations voting booths were also opened on Thursday due to challenges with ballot distribution.

Saturday's announcement of the results of the election came days earlier than expected.

"We all have a lot of questions about the speed" of the results announcement, Nicole Beardsworth, a politics lecturer at the University of the Witwatersrand, told Reuters.

Some information for this report came from Reuters and the Associated Press.

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Russo-Ukraine War - 28 August 2023 - Day 551

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 Russia has highly likely cancelled Exercise ZAPAD ('West') 23, its planned 'joint strategic exercise' (JSE) and major annual event intended to be the culmination of the military's training year. The exercise should have taken place in September 2023.

From 2010 Russia ran a four-year cycle, rotating JSEs around the country. However, since 2021, Russia has based the JSE in western Russia at least every second year as it prioritises confronting what it perceives as the threat from NATO. This follows ZAPAD 21, the largest Russian exercise since Soviet times.

The Russian military's under-performance in Ukraine has highlighted how JSEs have had limited training value and have largely been for show. Russia has likely cancelled ZAPAD 23 because too few troops and equipment are available. There is a realistic possibility that the Russian leadership is also sensitive to domestic criticism liable from running another slickly presented JSE during wartime.

The General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reported that during the day of August 28, Russian forces launched a total of 8x missile and 30x air strikes, 19x MLRS attacks at the positions of Ukrainian troops and various settlements. Unfortunately, the Russian attacks have killed and wounded civilians. Residential buildings, schools, and other civilian infrastructure were damaged.

The likelihood of missile and air strikes across Ukraine remains high.

During the day of August 28, there were 26x combat engagements.

Volyn and Polissya axes: no significant changes.

Sivershchyna and Slobozhanshchyna axes: the Russian adversary launched air strikes in the vicinities of Popivka and Slavhorod (Sumy oblast). Russian forces fired mortars and artillery at more than 20x settlements, including Karpovychi, Kamin' (Chernihiv oblast), Volfyno, Boyaro-Lezhachi, Popivka, Stukalivka (Sumy oblast), Mala Vovcha, Okhrimivka, Veterynarne (Kharkiv oblast).

Kup'yans'k axis: Russian forces launched air strikes in the vicinities of Ivanivka and Kyslivka (Kharkiv oblast). The settlements of Kyslivka, Kolodyazne, Berestove (Kharkiv oblast) came under artillery and mortar fire of the Russian adversary.

Lyman axis: the Russian invaders launched air strikes in the vicinities of Tverdokhlibove, Bilohorivka (Luhansk oblast) and Spirne (Donetsk oblast). More than 10x settlements, including Nevs'ke, Bilohorivka (Luhansk oblast), Verkhn'okam'yans'ke, Tors'ke, Spirne (Donetsk oblast), were shelled with artillery.

Bakhmut axis: the Russian occupiers launched an air strike in the vicinity of New York (Donetsk oblast). More than 15x settlements, including Pryvillya, Hryhorivka, Ivanivske, Klishchiivka, Druzhba (Donetsk oblast), suffered from Russian artillery shelling.

Avdiivka axis: Russian forces launched an air strike in the vicinity of Avdiivka. The Russian adversary fired artillery at the settlements of Oleksandropil', Novokalynove, Avdiivka, Sjeverne (Donetsk oblast).

Mar'inka axis: the Ukrainian Defense Forces continue to hold back the Russian offensive in the vicinity of Mar'inka (Donetsk oblast). The Russian adversary launched air strikes in the vicinities of Krasnohorivka and Kostyantynivka (Donetsk oblast). The invaders fired artillery at the settlements of Krasnohorivka, Mar'inka, Pobjeda, Katerynivka, Novomykhailivka (Donetsk oblast).

Shakhtars'ke axis: Russian forces launched air strikes in the vicinities of Vodyane, Novosilky, Blahodatne (Donetsk oblast). The settlements of Vuhledar, Vodyane, Prechystivka, Zolota Nyva, Urozhaine (Donetsk oblast) suffered from Russian artillery shelling.

Zaporizhzhia axis: Russian forces launched air strikes in the vicinities of Robotyne and Novodanylivka (Zaporizhzhia oblast). More than 20x settlements suffered from Russian artillery shelling, including Novodarivka, Poltavka, Huliaipilske, Charivne, Mali Shcherbaky, Kam'yans'ke (Zaporizhzhia oblast).

Kherson axis: Russian forces launched air strikes in the vicinities of Mykolaivka and Ol'hivka (Kherson oblast). The Russian invaders fired artillery at the settlements of Kherson, Sadove (Kherson oblast) and Ochakiv (Mykolaiv oblast).

At the same time, the Ukrainian Defense Forces continue to conduct the offensive operation on Melitopol' axis, consolidating their positions and conducting counter-battery fire.

During the day of August 28, Ukrainian Air Force launched 8x air strikes on the concentrations of troops and 1x air strike on a command post and 3x strikes on anti-aircraft missile systems of the Russian adversary.

During the day of August 28, the Ukrainian missile and artillery troops hit 2x command posts, 1x asset of air defense, and 1x artillery systems of the Russian adversary at their firing positions.

The Ministry of Defense of the Russian Federation reported that that night Russian Navy launched a long-range group maritime high-precision strike at an Armed Forces of Ukraine foreign-made aircraft weaponry ammunition depot.

The goal of the strike has been achieved. The facility has been neutralised.

In Zaporozhye direction, the Russian Group of Forces supported by Army aviation and artillery repelled seven attacks by units of the AFU 82nd Air Assault Brigade and the 46th Airmobile Brigade close to Rabotino and Verbovoye (Zaporozhye region).

Up to 160 Ukrainian troops, two armoured fighting vehicles, four motor vehicles, two U.S.-made M777 howitzers, one AS-90 Brave Heart self-propelled artillery howitzer, one U.K.-made FH-70 howitzer, as well as two D-30 howitzers have been neutralised.

In Donetsk direction, units of the Yug Group of Forces in cohesion with aviation and artillery repelled two attacks by AFU assault groups near Klescheevka and Krasnogorovka (Donetsk People's Republic).

In Donetsk direction, over 185 Ukrainian troops, three armoured fighting vehicles, two motor vehicles, one Polish-made Krab self-propelled artillery howitzer, as well as one Grad MLRS combat vehicle have been neutralised.

In Kupyansk direction, the Zapad Group of Forces units supported by aviation and artillery repelled two enemy attacks near Sinkovka (Kharkov region) and Novoselovkoye (Lugansk People's Republic).

Up to 30 Ukrainian troops, two armoured fighting vehicles, three motor vehicles, and one D-20 howitzer were destroyed.

In Krasny Liman direction, the Tsentr Group of Forces' units, aviation, artillery, and heavy flamethrower systems repelled two attacks of units of AFU 12th Special Operations Brigade and 42nd Mechanised Brigade close to Kuzmino (Lugansk People's Republic).

In Krasny Liman direction, up to 60 Ukrainian troops, two armoured fighting vehicles, two pick-up trucks, one Gvozdika self-propelled howitzer, and one D-30 howitzer have been neutralised.

In South-Donetsk direction, the Vostok Group of Forces units, Army aviation, and artillery repelled two attacks of the AFU 31st Marines Brigade near Staromayorskoye (Donetsk People's Republic).

In South-Donetsk direction, up to 100 Ukrainian troops, two armoured fighting vehicles, three motor vehicles, two D-20 howitzers, and one Msta-B howitzer have been neutralised.

In Kherson direction, up to 35 Ukrainian troops, three motor vehicles, one U.S.-made M109 Paladin artillery howitzer, and two D-30 howitzers have been neutralised.

Operational-Tactical and Army aviation, Missile Troops and Artillery of the Russian Group of Forces have engaged AFU manpower and hardware in 128 areas during the day.

A command and observation post of the AFU 67th Mechanised Brigade was destroyed close to Chervonaya Dibrova (Lugansk People's Republic).

Russian air defence forces have intercepted three JDAM guided bombs, as well as one HIMARS MLRS projectile during the day.

Moreover, 27 Ukrainian unmanned aerial vehicles have been shot down close to Druzhelubovka, Voskresenka (Kherson region), Lisichansk (Lugansk People's Republic), Mirnoye, Pologi (Zaporozhye region), Paraskovievka, Novoandreevka, Lidiyevka, and Soledar (Donetsk People's Republic).

In total, 466 airplanes and 247 helicopters, 6,179 unmanned aerial vehicles, 433 air defence missile systems, 11,538 tanks and other armoured combat vehicles, 1,146 combat vehicles equipped with MRLS, 6,095 field artillery cannons and mortars, as well as 12,480 units of special military equipment have been destroyed during the special military operation.





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Six new members welcomed into group, bringing countries closer Experts have hailed the entry of Middle Eastern countries into the BRICS bloc of developing nations, seeing it as bringing national shared interests closer together in a region long constrained by conflict. With the long-term interests of Iran and Saudi Arabia expected to intertwine, BRICS could help secure stability in the region, create a balance in world energy markets and improve regional and food security, they said. Egypt, Iran, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, along with Argentina and Ethiopia, were invited to become new BRICS members, joining the original members Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa, with their membership to take effect from Jan 1 next year. "The most significant part in my opinion is that four of the six countries invited as full members are from the Middle East," said Furkan Halit Yolcu, a researcher at Sakarya University Middle East Institute in Turkiye. BRICS membership boosts the prestige of Egypt, Iran, Saudi Arabia and the UAE, which are struggling under current US foreign policy, he said. Mehmood Ul Hassan Khan, executive director of the Center for South Asia and International Studies in Islamabad, said the policymakers at the BRICS Summit in Johannesburg last week had achieved one of their biggest goals by inviting the six developing countries and signaling a "drastic change in global geopolitics and geoeconomics". Expanding BRICS will also improve regional and food security, he said. The ministries of foreign affairs of Iran, Saudi Arabia and the UAE separately issued statements on being invited to join BRICS. Iran's Foreign Ministry said the country's "great success in joining BRICS" will not only strengthen multilateralism but "can pave the way for pursuing the objectives of this administration", and expand other grand strategies to implement Iran's dynamic diplomacy. Seyed Mostafa Khoshcheshm, former professor at the Iranian Foreign Ministry's Faculty of International Relations, said the country's accession to BRICS was a "setback for the United States" in its attempts to stifle the country. "Now Iran is taking very wide jumps after joining the Shanghai Cooperation Organization and now the BRICS group of countries, showing that the US push for isolating Iran has failed." On a larger scale, he said, this shows that "the world is changing now", as has been acknowledged by Western intellectuals, politicians and officials for the past two or three years. Global power, he said, was "on a transition from the West to the East". "On a different dimension, this will also have very positive outcomes for the West Asian states, for the Persian Gulf states. Iran and Saudi Arabia started a rapprochement with the help of the Chinese." In addition to China-brokered rapprochement and the enhancement of bilateral ties, Khoshcheshm said, relations between the two Middle Eastern powers will be more intimate under the BRICS grouping. Shared interests "When shared interests are intertwined and intermingled with each other, then there will be more stability and more security in the Persian Gulf region and for West Asia because the two can find more grounds for economic cooperation than hostility and rivalry." Saudi Arabia's Minister of Foreign Affairs Prince Faisal bin Farhan said at the summit that the kingdom is the largest BRICS trading partner in the Middle East, with the value of its bilateral trade with the countries of the group exceeding $160 billion last year. Prince Faisal expressed appreciation for the invitation extended by the BRICS group and said Riyadh would be studying it, adding that Saudi foreign policy focuses on building economic partnerships, according to a report by the newspaper Saudi Gazette. The UAE Foreign Ministry said the country has been "a long-term partner of the BRICS group". The UAE Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan expressed his appreciation to the founding countries of BRICS and said the invitation forms part of the UAE's commitment to promote constructive dialogue through active platforms that represent developing and emerging economies. The UAE Minister of State for International Cooperation Reem Al Hashimy said the UAE recognizes BRICS "as a mechanism to promote global peace, stability and prosperity". Khan in Islamabad said the UAE has become the biggest country for the re-export of numerous goods and essential food items, a connecting hub for investment and innovation, and a bridge between the Gulf and Southeast Asia, the Middle East and North Africa. Given the overwhelming interest shown by many countries in joining BRICS, the success in building consensus in inviting as many as six new members is a reflection of both the bloc's self-confidence in opening itself to new members just as it underlines its growing credibility, said Swaran Singh, professor of diplomacy and disarmament at Jawaharlal Nehru University in New Delhi, India. What is even more interesting is how all five national leaders indicated this to be only a beginning and that many more aspirant nations are likely to be added to the bloc in coming years, Singh said. This has implications for most of the conventional post-World War II global governance structures that have failed to accommodate these emerging economies, he said.
Judge Sets March 4 Trial Date in Trump Election Interference Case

By Masood Farivar August 28, 2023

The trial of former U.S. President Donald Trump on charges of plotting to overturn the 2020 presidential election will be held next March, a federal judge ruled Monday.

U.S. District Judge Tanya Chutkan, who is presiding over the case, set the high-profile trial for March 4, a day before Super Tuesday when voters in 15 states go to the polls to pick their party nominees for the 2024 presidential election.

Trump is currently the favorite to win the Republican nomination.

Prosecutors had wanted to begin the trial on January 2, while the Trump defense team sought to put it off until April 2026, more than two years after the election.

Chutkan rejected both proposed dates as "unacceptable." However, the trial date she set could complicate Trump's presidential campaign and legal battles on multiple fronts.

Not only will it coincide with the start of the presidential primary season, but it will also likely clash with other court proceedings involving him and his associates.

In the southern U.S. state of Georgia, where Trump and 18 others were recently indicted for conspiring to overturn the election outcome there, prosecutors have proposed a March 4 trial date. A judge has yet to set a date.

Three weeks later on March 25, Trump is scheduled to go on trial in New York in connection with a hush money payment to an adult movie start ahead of the 2016 presidential election.

And on May 20, he'll face a jury in Florida, where he was charged in June with illegally retaining classified documents after he left office and hiding them from investigators.

For Trump's federal election interference trial to proceed, the dates of his state trials in New York and Georgia would have to be adjusted, according to legal experts.

"It would seem that something has to give in trials expected to last weeks," Jonathan Turley, a law professor at The George Washington University, wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter.

Chutkan said she had spoken with the New York judge who is overseeing the hush money case. The Manhattan prosecutor has previously signaled an openness to change the trial date.

In the federal election interference case brought by special counsel Jack Smith, Trump faces four felony counts, including conspiracy to defraud the United States and conspiracy to obstruct an official proceeding.

He has pleaded not guilty to the charges.

Trump's lawyers sought to delay the trial date citing the millions of pages of documents they must review and a potential conflict with other pending criminal cases.

Speaking during Monday's hearing, John Lauro, one of Trump's attorneys, called the government's proposed trial date "a violation to the oath of justice," saying never in history has a "case of this magnitude" gone to trial in four months.

But Chutkan, noting that the case featured one defendant and four counts, said the defense didn't need two years to "investigate" the case and prepare for trial.

Alluding to Trump's presidential campaign, she said that setting a trial date "does not, should not, depend on a defendant's personal and professional obligations."

"Mr. Trump, like any defendant, will have to make the trial date work, regardless of his schedule," Chutkan said.

Trump is the first former American president to face criminal charges. If convicted, he could spend the rest of his life behind bars.

Until his most recent criminal indictment in Georgia, Trump had dodged the ordeal of having to pose for a mugshot. But last week, he was made to face the camera when he was booked into an Atlanta jail, becoming the first former American president to have his mug shot taken.

Trump and his 18 co-defendants in Georgia will be arraigned on September 5, according to a court filing Monday. They each face one count of violating Georgia's Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) Act, as well as other charges.

One of Trump's 18 co-defendants, former White House chief of staff Mark Meadows, took the stand Monday in federal court in Atlanta to argue that his case should be moved from state to federal court.

Meadows faces two counts: one RICO count and one count of solicitation of violation of oath by a public officer.

Of the four indictments Trump faces, the federal election fraud case looms the largest.

But how it will impact Trump's presidential run remains to be seen.

Thus far, Trump has defied the odds and remained the front-runner of the Republican Party, despite mounting legal troubles.

But a guilty verdict on the election interference charge could change that, according to Allan Lichtman, a professor of American history at American University in Washington.

"What if [Trump] is sitting in jail, which is not impossible, either," Lichtman said. "Technically, the guy could still run, but would the Republicans really want at the top of their ticket a guy who's been convicted of subverting our democracy?"

On his social media platform, Truth Social, Trump lashed out at Chutkan, calling her a "Trump Hating Judge" and vowing to "appeal" her ruling.

But legal experts noted that a trial date is not subject to appeal. And though they vowed to fight the charges against Trump, the former president's lawyers did not express any intention to appeal Chutkan's decision.

VOA senior State Department correspondent Cindy Saine contributed to this article.

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Africa's Health Experts Gather in Gaborone to Discuss Pandemic Readiness

By Mqondisi Dube August 28, 2023

More than 1,000 health experts, including African Cabinet ministers, are in Botswana for the World Health Organization Regional Committee for Africa meeting to discuss health challenges facing the continent.

Delegates want the continent to be better prepared for the next pandemic a following Africa's poor response to COVID-19.

Speaking at the start of the five-day meeting Monday, Jean Kaseya, head of Africa's Center for Disease Control and Prevention, said it is important for the continent to be pandemic-ready, after being found wanting during COVID-19.

"The next pandemic is coming," Kaseya said. "This next pandemic we need to be prepared like other continents are preparing themselves. We need to see how Africa can be more independent by manufacturing their own vaccines. The second one is how we can provide funding for our pandemic preparedness, prevention and response."

Africa faced challenges inoculating its population due to the difficulty in buying adequate amounts of the vaccine. Fewer than 10 percent of Africans are vaccinated.

Additionally, WHO Director-General Tedros Ghebreyesus says climate change is compounding Africa's health challenges.

"The climate crisis is a health crisis, which is why I encourage member states to participate actively at COP28 in the United Arab Emirates, which will feature a day dedicated to health for the first time," Tedros said. "Health systems are increasingly dealing with the consequence of climate change in terms of communicable and non-communicable diseases and the impacts of more frequent and more severe, extreme weather."

COP28 is the United Nations' climate change conference, taking place later this year in Dubai.

Botswana's President Mokgweetsi Masisi says COVID-19 exposed inequalities in tackling a pandemic, which he adds, must be avoided in future.

"The inequities in access to vaccines, PPE and medicines during the COVID-19 pandemic will probably remain one of the major failures of the international community in the 21st century... Diseases have no borders, pandemics are global and therefore, the risks to one country invariably affect another," Masisi said.

While rich countries used their financial power to purchase COVID vaccines, distribution in Africa was erratic.

WHO's regional director for Africa, Matshidiso Moeti, says the continent emerged from the pandemic with important lessons learned.

"Although we are living in a challenging global context of health, recent advancements in our member states demonstrate that the future of health in the Africa region is hopeful," Moeti said. "African leaders are more directly taking charge of continental institutions and are taking action. The future is hopeful because you are using important lessons from the pandemic to enhance our preparedness and response to health emergencies."

The meeting is also expected to discuss ways to transform health care in Africa, including developing telemedicine strategies.

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Statement from Deputy Prime Minister, Richard Marles, regarding US Marine Corps Osprey incident

Issued by Defence Media

27 August 2023

Earlier today a United States Marine Corps MV-22 Osprey crashed on Melville Island, north of Darwin, while supporting Exercise Predators Run 2023.

Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with the three US service personnel who lost their lives, those who have been injured, the rest of the crew and indeed the entire United States armed forces.

Australian Defence Force personnel in the Northern Territory are providing support to our US partners.

No Australian personnel were involved in the incident.

Australian and US personnel have stood shoulder to shoulder for more than a century. Our Alliance is built upon these enduring links and our shared values.

This incident is a reminder of the significance of the service undertaken by our personnel and those of our partner nations.

Australia will continue to provide assistance to our friends for as long as is required.

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Australia welcomes Japan's first international F-35A deployment

Issued by Defence Media

28 August 2023

The Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) has welcomed a visit by Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF) F-35A Lightning II aircraft and personnel to Australia, marking the first time Japan has deployed these aircraft overseas.

Two F-35As and a contingent of 55 personnel from the JASDF are being hosted at RAAF Base Tindal from 26 to 29 August after making the 6,400-kilometre trip to Australia's top end.

Vice Minister of Defense for International Affairs Serizawa Kiyoshi and Ambassador for Japan, His Excellency Suzuki Kazuhiro, visited JASDF personnel at RAAF Base Tindal today as guests of Chief of Air Force, Air Marshal Robert Chipman.

The visit by the F-35As follows the entry into force of the Australia-Japan Reciprocal Access Agreement, which facilitates deeper and more sophisticated practical cooperation between the Australian Defence Force and the Japan Self-Defense Forces.

Quotes attributable to Secretary of the Department of Defence, Greg Moriarty:

"Australia is honoured to be chosen as the destination for Japan's first international deployment of its F-35As.

"This is a significant milestone in the relationship between our two countries, and is the first activity to be held under the Reciprocal Access Agreement.

"In September, we will reciprocate this visit with six RAAF F-35As deploying to Japan for Exercise Bushido Guardian 2023.

"Our special strategic partnership with Japan is critical to supporting an open, secure and prosperous Indo-Pacific."

Quotes attributable to Chief of Air Force, Air Marshal Rob Chipman AM, CSC:

"This visit to Australia will build closer working-level relationships between our respective air forces, and enhance our mutual ability to cooperate in the Indo-Pacific region.

"It's our pleasure to host the Japan Air Self-Defense Force for this visit, and we look forward to seeing them return for future exercises here in Australia.

"Developing our mutual understanding, especially in how we each operate the F-35A, is essential to how Australia and Japan contribute to the collective security of the Indo-Pacific."

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Readout of Secretary Raimondo's Meeting with Minister of Commerce of the People's Republic of China Wang Wentao

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Monday, August 28, 2023

Office of Public Affairs

publicaffairs@doc.gov



U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo today met with Minister of Commerce of the People's Republic of China Wang Wentao to advance U.S. commercial and strategic interests. The meeting was part of ongoing efforts to deliver on President Biden's directive following his meeting with President Xi in November 2022 to deepen bilateral discussions.

Secretary Raimondo emphasized the importance of ensuring open lines of communication between the United States and China and took concrete steps to deliver on that goal. Secretary Raimondo and Minister Wang agreed to:

Establish a new commercial issues working group, a consultation mechanism involving U.S. and PRC government officials and private sector representatives to seek solutions on trade and investment issues and to advance U.S. commercial interests in China. They agreed that the working group will meet twice annually at the Vice Minister level, with the U.S. hosting the first meeting in early 2024.

Launch the export control enforcement information exchange, which will serve as a platform to reduce misunderstanding of U.S. national security policies. The first in-person meeting will occur at the Assistant Secretary level at the Ministry of Commerce in Beijing on Tuesday, August 29.

Convene subject matter experts from both sides to hold technical discussions regarding strengthening the protection of trade secrets and confidential business information during administrative licensing proceedings.

Communicate regularly at the Secretary and Minister level about commercial and economic issues and to meet in-person at least once annually.

Secretary Raimondo discussed opportunities to promote economic exchange where it aligns with U.S. interests and values. She underscored the importance of leveling the playing field for U.S. workers and businesses and ensuring the fair and transparent treatment of U.S. companies in China. Finally, Secretary Raimondo reinforced the Administration's commitment to taking actions necessary to protect U.S. national security and reiterated the Administration's "small yard, high fence" approach, underscoring that export controls are narrowly targeted at technologies that have clear national security or human rights impacts and are not about containing China's economic growth.

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Update: Lawmakers work on revision to public security law to better adapt to emerging social realities of today

Global Times

By Cui Fandi Published: Aug 28, 2023 08:49 PM

Chinese lawmakers are working on a draft revision to the Law on Penalties for Administration of Public Security, to make the law suitable for today's ever-changing social situations and some new problems.

The bill was deliberated by the top legislature at the fifth session of the Standing Committee of the 14th National People's Congress on Monday morning. Some 165 members attended the session.

According to the Xinhua News Agency, the proposed draft prohibits actions such as cheating on exams, orchestrating pyramid schemes, impeding the safe operation of public transport vehicles, dropping objects from buildings, and non-compliant drone flights.

The draft revision further improves measures and ranges of penalties, including promoting the linkage between public security management penalties and mediation, establishing a system of leniency in admitting mistakes and penalties, and appropriately increasing the range of fines.

The draft revision also focuses on strengthening the protection of minors, specifying that actions damaging the rights and interests of minors will result in harsher punishments.

When inquiring juvenile suspects under the age of 16, the suspect's parents or guardians, or other eligible adults, should be present, according to the draft.

The revision of the law aims to better adapt to new situations and new requirements in public security administration work, Xinhua reported on Monday.

The proposed revision incorporates into the scope of public security management and penalties some new situations and problems, recognizes some practices into law, and optimizes the procedures for management and imposition of penalties, with the aim to better maintain social order.

The current Law on Penalties for Administration of Public Security was enacted in 2005 and amended in 2012.

Eleven years have passed since the last amendment to the law. Now is the proper time for amendments that adapt to the current state of things to be introduced, Meng Bo, a lawyer at Beijing Jingsh Law Firm, told the Global Times on Monday, pointing out that laws tend to lag behind in comparison with ongoing social changes.

The draft revision is an important manifestation of scientific legislation, which can provide a legal basis for the relevant departments to strictly enforce the law and fairly administer justice, Meng said. It can also effectively promote law-abiding by the whole nation, realizing the unity of legal effect and social effect.

For example, objects being dropped from buildings has long been a concern for urban residents. The offense has now been added to the latest draft revision of the Law on Penalties for Administration of Public Security as a punishable act, which is an effective convergence of the relevant provisions of the Civil Code and the Criminal Law amendments, and can effectively safeguard people's lives and safety, Meng said.

Observers also pointed out that some of the offenses related to technology and the internet have emerged in recent years. These behaviors used to be in a gray area, but will be punished after the revision.

Over the past few years, revisions to the Law have been publicly discussed on several occasions. In January 2017, the Ministry of Public Security (MPS) released a public consultation draft of revisions to the Law. At the National People's Congress (NPC) meetings over the past two years, there have also been many occasions when delegates have proposed relevant motions.

Other drafts and draft revisions were also reviewed during Monday's session, including a draft foreign state immunities law, a draft preschool education law, and a draft academic degrees law.

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Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Wang Wenbin's Regular Press Conference on August 28, 2023

Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the People's Republic of China

Starting from August 30, 2023, inbound travelers will no longer be required to take a pre-entry nucleic acid or antigen test for COVID-19.

Xinhua News Agency: General elections were held throughout Zimbabwe on August 23 and 24. On August 27, the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission declared incumbent President Emmerson Mnangagwa the winner with 52.6 percent of the vote. President Mnangagwa has delivered a victory speech, calling for efforts to continue the country's growth trajectory as one united nation. But some candidates refuse to accept the result and said they would challenge it in the Constitutional Court. What's China's comment?

Wang Wenbin: As a friend to Zimbabwe, China has been closely following the general elections in the country. At Zimbabwe's invitation, China sent an observer mission there. The mission believes that the elections were held in a peaceful and orderly fashion with active participation by the people. We have noted the result released by the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission and extend congratulations to President Mnangagwa. We stand ready to work with the new government to bring our two countries' comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership to new heights.

We have noticed reports on some disputing the election result. It is our hope that parties in Zimbabwe will put people's interests first and resolve differences properly through legal means. China adheres to the principle of non-interference in other countries' internal affairs. We respect the Zimbabwe people's choice, wish the country continued stability after the election and greater progress in pursuing national development and prosperity.

Reuters: China's "aggressive behavior" in the South China Sea must be challenged and checked, Commander of the US Navy's Seventh Fleet Karl Thomas said in the Philippines yesterday. What's your comment?

Wang Wenbin: We find it hard to understand why the US commander made the remarks that distort facts, sow discord and flex muscles. China Coast Guard takes necessary measures to safeguard China's sovereignty and maritime rights and interests. This is beyond reproach. The US has no right to interfere.

It needs to be pointed out that it is the frequent muscle-flexing and discord-sowing by US warships in the South China Sea that truly fits the description "aggressive behavior". We urge the US to respect China's territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests in the South China Sea, earnestly respect regional countries' efforts to safeguard peace and stability in these waters, stop words or actions that are not conducive to regional peace and stability, and avoid being a disrupter and saboteur of peace and stability in the South China Sea.

TV Asahi: Since Japan started discharging treated radioactive water into the ocean, some people in China have thrown stones into Japanese schools and made harassment calls to Japanese restaurants. What measures will China take in response to this?

Wang Wenbin: First, China protects and ensures the safety and lawful rights and interests of foreign nationals in China in accordance with laws.a

I would also like to stress that in disregard of the international community's strong criticism and opposition, the Japanese government unilaterally started the release of the Fukushima nuclear-contaminated water into the ocean. Japan's neighboring countries and the international community have criticized this selfish and highly irresponsible action and taken precautionary measures. The DPRK's Foreign Ministry spokesperson said that in disregard of the strong protest, opposition and warning from both at home and abroad, the Japanese side unilaterally started the release of the nuclear-contaminated water, calling that a "crime against humanity" that would cause "catastrophic consequences" only to serve Japan's selfish interests. Solomon Islands' Prime Minister expressed strong opposition to Japan's decision of ocean discharge, saying that it "has an impact on our people, ocean, economy and livelihood." Vanuatu's Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister called for efforts to reject Japan's discharge.

Russia's Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment said that the ocean discharge will force regional countries to increase the scale and intensity of detection of radiation concerning the marine environment and living resources. ROK Prime Minister said that the country will demand an immediate halt of the release and file an international lawsuit in the event that the concentration level of a single nuclide goes beyond the standard, and ROK will also keep in place its import ban on fishery products from eight Japanese prefectures, including Fukushima. The ROK's Democratic Party called the release of the nuclear-contaminated water an act of "environmental terrorism". Germany's Federal Environment Minister said that she is extremely critical of any additional discharge of radioactive substances into the sea. Only when all other possible means have been exhausted can the last resort of ocean discharge be considered, and any plan like that must be carried out on a scientifically sound basis and the process must be transparent. Malaysia's health director-general said that the country will impose higher-level inspection on high-risk food products imported from Japan. Thailand's Food and Drug Administration said it will strengthen examination of seafood imported from Japan and double the collection of samples for examination.

The beginning of discharge of the nuclear-contaminated water into the sea also met with strong opposition in Japan. The Democratic Party of Japan raised concerns over the discharge plan of the government which violated its commitment. The Social Democratic Party of Japan said that the outrageous act of deliberately dumping radioactive material into the sea is unforgivable. The National Fisheries Cooperative Federation of Japan and the fisheries cooperative of Miyagi have jointly reiterated their opposition to the plan. Organizations including the Hiroshima nuclear bombing victims group rallied to stop the ocean discharge plan. According to a Japanese poll, about 40% of the people surveyed oppose the plan, 88.1% are worried that it will damage Japan's image and potential economic benefits, and 81.9% think that the Japanese government's explanation is insufficient.

Even the US, who has said it's "satisfied" with Japan's ocean discharge plan, has actually reduced imports of agricultural, forestry and fishery products from Japan over the first half of this year, as has been reported. You may ask the US what it's worried about.

We strongly urge Japan to take seriously the legitimate concerns of all sides, stop dumping the nuclear-contaminated water into the sea, engage in full consultation with its neighbors and other stakeholders, and dispose of the nuclear-contaminated water in a truly responsible way.

China News Service: We have learned that the FBI recently stole a Chinese student's personal information from his study application materials and arrested and charged him with "visa fraud". Also, three Chinese students were detained, interrogated and deported by US Customs and Border Protection without valid evidence or basis. What's the foreign ministry's comment?

Wang Wenbin: The US has detained, interrogated and deported Chinese students without cause and trumped up charges against them. This is wanton suppression and persecution motivated by political purposes. We firmly oppose it.

People-to-people exchanges form the foundation for public support to China-US relations, of which academic, educational, scientific and technological exchanges are an important part. The US side claims to support educational and other people-to-people exchanges between the two countries and welcome Chinese students, but in fact has continued the wrong practice of the previous administration of overstretching the concept of national security and restricting and thwarting Chinese students planning to study or do research in the US. This seriously harms the lawful rights and interests of the Chinese students and undermines normal people-to-people exchanges and educational cooperation between the two countries.

We urge the US to genuinely welcome Chinese students as it has said, withdraw the biased and discriminatory Proclamation 10043, and stop going after Chinese students in the US in the name of national security. China will continue to take necessary measures to defend Chinese citizens' lawful rights and interests and remind our students heading for the US to be mindful of such risks.

CCTV: Recently Japan's ocean discharge of nuclear-contaminated water has drawn high attention from the Chinese people, who expressed in various ways their concern over the safety of marine environment and aquatic products. Are China and Japan in communication on the ocean discharge through diplomatic channels?a

Wang Wenbin: China has all along been opposed to Japan's decision to discharge the Fukushima nuclear-contaminated water into the ocean, which spreads the risk of nuclear contamination to the whole world. Recently China has consistently communicated its stern position to Japan through diplomatic channels and asked Japan to stop pushing through the ocean discharge plan. Competent authorities of the Chinese government have taken measures to monitor the risks of nuclear contamination on marine radioactivity and aquatic products, so as to ensure the health and safety of the Chinese people.

Reuters: Yang Jun, an Australian citizen detained in China said yesterday that he has a medical condition that is not being properly treated. Does the foreign ministry have any comment?

Wang Wenbin: We have repeatedly made clear China's position on this individual case. We would like to stress again that China is a country under the rule of law. The Chinese judicial authorities try cases in strict accordance with the law. They fully protect the legal rights of the individual concerned and respect and safeguard Australia's consular rights including the right to visit.a

Global Times: The US DoD and Indonesia MoD Joint Press Statement issued on the website of the Pentagon claims that the two sides shared the view that China's "expansive maritime claims in the South China Sea are inconsistent with international law as reflected in the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea". What is China's comment?

Wang Wenbin: We noted that no such content can be found in the press release by the Indonesia MoD on the same meeting. The Chinese Embassy in Indonesia has communicated with the Indonesian side, who said that what the US side described is not true. This is not the first time such things happen. I wonder if this is yet another example of the US's coercive diplomacy or lying diplomacy or instigation diplomacy.

Countries in the region share common aspirations and interests to maintain peace and stability in the South China Sea and work together for development. The US needs to earnestly respect regional countries' effort to uphold peace and stability in the South China Sea, stop meddling in South China Sea issues, stop sowing discords and creating trouble, and refrain from disrupting peace and stability in the region.

AFP: The ASEAN Summit and the East Asia Summit will be held in Jakarta next week, and there will be an ASEAN foreign ministers' meeting next Sunday. Are you able to identify who will be representing China at these meetings?

Wang Wenbin: Regarding the upcoming leaders' meetings on East Asia cooperation you mentioned, we'll release information in due course. Please check back later.

TV Asahi: Some Chinese have been posting videos with anti-Japan sentiments on social media, and many Japanese people living in China are worried that anti-Japan actions may gain more momentum. Do you have any comment? What measures will China take in response to this?

Wang Wenbin: As I just said, China protects and ensures the safety and lawful rights and interests of foreign nationals in China in accordance with laws.a

The Paper: We noted that the BRICS expansion has attracted wide attention from the international community. International media outlets say that it is an important milestone for the development of the BRICS mechanism. It represents the historical trend of the rise of the Global South and the common expectation from countries in different regions for a multipolar international order. Some also say that the BRICS countries are increasingly capable of wrestling with the West, which will intensify bloc confrontation. Do you have any comment?a

Wang Wenbin: Last week, during the 15th BRICS summit, leaders of BRICS countries unanimously agreed to invite Saudi Arabia, Egypt, the UAE, Argentina, Iran and Ethiopia to become members of the BRICS family and welcome other willing and eligible developing countries to become BRICS partners. It is a historical moment for the development of BRICS.

The expansion accords with the historical trend and the common aspiration of developing countries. It will certainly promote multi-polarity in the world and greater democracy in international relations, contribute to making the global political and economic governance system more just and equitable, and increase the representation and voice of emerging markets and developing countries in international affairs.

BRICS advocates openness, inclusiveness and win-win cooperation for common development and prosperity, not bloc confrontation. It is fundamentally different from small circles or exclusive blocs.a

The dynamic development of the BRICS mechanism is an expansion of the platform for South-South cooperation, a boost to the force for peace and justice and another important milestone in the solidarity and cooperation among developing countries, which has been welcomed by most countries. Together with our BRICS partners, we will continue to deepen the BRICS strategic partnership, expand the BRICS Plus cooperation model, enrich the cooperation architecture featuring three main drivers, namely, economic cooperation, political and security cooperation, and people-to-people exchanges, and continue to open new chapters of solidarity and cooperation for development among emerging markets and developing countries, so as to contribute to the building of a community with a shared future for mankind.

Reuters: Has China asked Chief Representative of Komeito to postpone his visit originally scheduled to start today? If so, why did China ask him to postpone the visit?

Wang Wenbin: According to what we learned from competent authorities, in light of the current China-Japan relations, the two sides have agreed to postpone the Komeito delegation's visit to China. Komeito is long committed to promoting friendship between China and Japan. We attach high importance to exchanges and dialogue with the party and stand ready to work with it to make active efforts for improving and growing China-Japan relations.

Reuters: Is the British foreign secretary going to visit China? Could you share some information with us?

Wang Wenbin: I have nothing to share at the moment.

Fuji TV: What you answered just now was about issues between the Japanese and the Chinese governments. I want to ask about the harassment calls from some in China to Japanese nationals. Do you have any comment on that?a

Wang Wenbin: I am not aware of what you mentioned. I want to stress that the international community have expressed criticism extensively and taken relevant preventative measures in response to the selfish and irresponsible act of the Japanese government to forcibly start discharging nuclear-contaminated water into the ocean. The attitude of criticism and opposition to the Japanese government is highly representative in the world. This calls for serious reflection from Japan.

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Beijing: US must stop targeting Chinese students under pretext of 'visa fraud'

Iran Press TV

Monday, 28 August 2023 5:25 PM

Beijing says the United States needs to stop going after Chinese students in the name of national security and "visa fraud."

A Chinese student was arrested by the FBI on charges of "intentionally concealing military education experience" and committing "visa fraud," according to the Chinese Foreign Ministry.

Three other students were also detained, interrogated and deported by US Customs and Border Protection without valid evidence or basis, it said.

Foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin said on Monday the US "has detained, interrogated and deported Chinese students without cause and trumped up charges against them."

"This is wanton suppression and persecution motivated by political purposes. We firmly oppose it."

Wang urged Washington to "stop going after Chinese students in the United States in the name of national security."

The US claims it supports educational and other people-to-people exchanges between the two countries and welcomes Chinese students, he said.

But in fact, Wang added, the administration of President Joe Biden has been also restricting and thwarting Chinese students planning to study or do research in the country.

He said Beijing will take necessary measures to defend Chinese citizens' lawful rights and interests and reminds its students heading for the United States to be mindful of such risks.

Current and former US intelligence officers have claimed Beijing is leaning on its scientists, business and students to infiltrate US universities and gain information, allegations Beijing has repeatedly denied.

In October 2021, the Justice Department charged four Chinese nationals with conspiracy. It claimed they worked to recruit university professors, federal law enforcement officers and state homeland security officials to work for the Chinese government as agents.

The FBI agents spent nearly two years tailing the professor, but they were unable to find evidence of espionage, according to an agent's testimony in court.

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China, Pakistan stage joint drills to boost defense cooperation

Iran Press TV

Monday, 28 August 2023 4:46 PM

China and Pakistan have kicked off joint air force drills to enhance coordination between the armed forces of the two countries.

Media reports said the Shaheen (Eagle)-X maneuvers began within the Chinese territory on Monday.

A Chinese Defense Ministry statement said ground and air forces are "focusing on organizing joint training in typical combat scenarios such as joint air defense, joint countermeasures, and joint seizure and control."

The ministry said the drills will include early warning aircraft and other types of planes, as well as ground-to-air missiles and radar and signal troops. Chinese naval aviation units will also be involved in the training.

it is the 10th joint exercise between the air forces. The first was held in 2011.

China has pledged billions of dollars worth of infrastructure projects across Pakistan as part of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).

In recent months, China has staged a series of joint military drills aimed at fighting terrorism and countering the US influence in the region.

Washington has become more vigilant about the relations between Beijing and regional countries.

Beijing says such drills are countermeasures in the face of provocations by the United States and its allies.

In March, China, Iran and Russia conducted joint drills in the Sea of Oman. The Marine Security Belt 2023 aimed to strengthen regional security. Observers from Pakistan and Kazakhstan also participated in the drills.

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Visiting Xinjiang, Xi Jinping doubles down on hard-line policies against Uyghurs

The Chinese leader also urges the further 'Sinicization of Islam.'

By Alim Seytoff and Mamatjan Juma for RFA Uyghur 2023.08.28 -- Visiting Xinjiang for the second time in just over a year, President Xi Jinping vowed to double down on China's hardline policies toward the 11 million mostly Muslim Uyghurs who live in the restive, far-western region.

Maintaining "hard-won social stability" would remain the top priority, and that stability must be used to "guarantee development," Xi said during a speech on Saturday in Urumqi, capital of the Xinjiang Autonomous Uyghur Region, state media reported.

Xi said it was necessary to "combine the development of the anti-terrorism and anti-separatism struggle with the push for normalizing social stability work and rule of law." He also told officials to further "promote the Sinicization of Islam" and "effectively control various illegal religious activities."

Under Xi, China has clamped down hard on the Uyghurs since 2017, detaining 1.8 million Uyghurs and other Turkic minorities in concentration camps, in reaction to sporadic terrorist attacks that Uyghurs say are fueled by years of government oppression. Beijing has also sought to destroy religious and cultural sites and eradicate the Uyghur language and its culture.

The United States and legislatures of several Western countries have declared that abuses committed by China a including arbitrary detentions, torture, forced sterilizations of Uyghur women and the use of Uyghur forced labor a amount to genocide and crimes against humanity.

China denies the accusations, saying its Xinjiang policies are necessary to combat religious extremism and "terrorism."

Uyghur advocates denounced Xi's remarks, saying they pointed to more repression.

"It's crystal clear from Xi Jinping's speech in Urumqi that the Chinese government and he intend to continue the ongoing Uyghur genocide and crimes against humanity in East Turkestan," said Dolkun Isa, president of the World Uyghur Congress, using Uyghurs' preferred name for Xinjiang.

Noting that Xi called for more positive propaganda on Xinjiang, Isa cautioned the international community "not be fooled" by those false images and messages.

Xi last visited Xinjiang in July 2022, before the U.N.'s human rights office issued a report concluding that China may have committed genocide and crimes against humanity.

'War on Islam'

On Monday, Rusha Abbas, executive director of the campaign for Uyghurs, said Xi's use of the phrase "Sinicization of Islam" meant "war on Islam," while "counter-terrorism measures" meant "mass imprisonment."

Xi also emphasizes security as the priority in Xinjiang followed by the region's economic development, said Adrian Zenz, a researcher at the Washington, D.C.-based Victims of Communism Memorial Foundation and an expert on the Xinjiang region.

"In that context he strongly emphasizes cultural assimilation, Uyghurs learning Chinese, and a Sinicization of Islam," he told RFA.

Zenz also noted that Xi's point on the need for Uyghurs to work in other provinces of China and along the east coast is significant because the government has long suppressed statistics on labor transfers to other provinces.

"That's actually a very important data point a an important point of evidence a and really an argument why the United States really urgently needs to add many more Chinese companies to the blacklist" related to the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act.

Signed into law in December 2021, the act requires American companies that import goods from Xinjiang to prove that they have not been manufactured with Uyghur forced labor at any stage of production.

David Tobin, a lecturer on East Asian studies at the University of Sheffield in the United Kingdom, said the speech signaled that the Communist Party "will not listen to criticism on its ethnic policy in general and its policies towards the Uyghur people in particular."

"Domestically, Xi Jinping is signaling to party state officials and regional leaders that he is in command and his policies must be implemented," he said. "So, the visit is a display and an assertion of strength, but also belies a weakness to these concerns."

Translated by Shahrezad Ghayrat for RFA Uyghur. Edited by Roseanne Gerin and Malcolm Foster.

Copyright 1998-2023, RFA. Used with the permission of Radio Free Asia, 2025 M St. NW, Suite 300, Washington DC 20036. For any commercial use of RFA content please send an email to: mahajanr@rfa.org. RFA content August not be used in a manner which would give the appearance of any endorsement of any product or support of any issue or political position. Please read the full text of our Terms of Use.

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U.S. commerce secretary in Beijing on 'complex and challenging' mission

Trip aims to juggle improving trade relations with protecting key U.S. security concerns like technology transfers.

By Chris Taylor for RFA 2023.08.28 -- United States Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo is in Beijing on a trip Raimondo described as aiming to promote "healthy competition" while also holding China accountable for security issues of concern to the U.S.

"If you wanted to put a tagline to the trip and the mission, it is: protect what we must and promote where we can," Raimondo said to reporters in the U.S. before leaving for Beijing.

On Monday, Raimondo told her Chinese counterpart Wang Wentao in Beijing that the U.S. does not aim to stifle China's economic growth, adding that it seeks a "stable economic relationship that benefits both nations."

"It's complex and challenging. While we'll disagree on some points, I believe direct, open, and practical dialogue can lead to progress," Raimondo said.

Raimondo is the fourth top U.S. official to visit China in three months. Her trip comes as the Biden administration is set to finalize restrictions on advanced semiconductors established last year and as China struggles to find its feet after last year's pandemic lockdowns and amid a wide-ranging downturn in the property sector.

The commerce secretary said she aimed to improve travel and tourism between the U.S. and China, adding that bringing Chinese visitor numbers back to the levels before the pandemic could mean tens of thousands of U.S. jobs.

Among the "many challenges" to getting the U.S. and China back on the track to normalized trade relations, she said, are Beijing's "unfair trade practices," an expression that is sure to rankle with the Chinese Communist Party elite.

Beijing is already smarting at restrictions on exports of semiconductors, technology equipment and expertise, which are regarded as an attempt to hold back China's emergence as a technology leader. Chinese President Xi Jinping has called on President Biden to drop the restrictions.

Meanwhile, Raimondo is reportedly in high demand, both in China, which hacked her unclassified email earlier this year, and with the international business community, especially the semiconductor sector, but her visit coincides with a host of external events that underscore the rifts between the world's two leading superpowers.

Cloudy horizon

Just two weeks ago the U.S. struck a deal with Japan and South Korea that included defense cooperation commitments and vows to combat "economic coercion" - in obvious references to China. China in turn accused the U.S. of trying to divide the region and damage China's interests.

In further words that were unlikely to be music to Beijing's ears, Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said all three countries would be members of the U.N. Security Council next year and they should put pressure on Beijing's expansion and Pyongyang's nuclear program.

Meanwhile, in another sign that U.S.-China tensions remain high, during last week's BRICS summit in South Africa, Raimondo's counterpart Wang Wentao read a statement from President Xi - who was unexpectedly unable to give the speech himself - that criticized the U.S. for its "hegemonic" tendencies.

Wang, via Xi, warned against "a new cold war" and criticized a nation "obsessed with maintaining hegemony" for undermining emerging markets and developing countries.

All the same, some observers conjecture that there are signs the two nations may be cautiously inching toward a more conciliatory space.

Chinese Premier Li Qiang has recently said the countries can benefit from trade cooperation and maintaining stable global supply chains, while the U.S. removed trade restrictions on 27 Chinese firms, a move that has received the nod from Beijing.

Separately, the U.S. Department of Transportation announced that it has agreed to add six more flights operated by Chinese airlines, effective Sept. 1.

"Such moves indicate that the Biden administration is gradually realizing that relentless suppression and restraint of China's development will impact America's own interests," Gao Lingyun, an expert at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences in Beijing, told the Global Times on Saturday.

But ahead of her current Beijing mission, Raimondo, speaking to reporters in the U.S., was not pulling any punches on U.S. expectations of her trip.

"I want to be clear with you around what my goal is for the visit, which is to promote a healthy competition," Raimondo said before she left for China. "And by that, I mean a competition on a level playing field, playing by the rules, because on a level playing field, nobody can outcompete American businesses or American workers."

Edited by Mike Firn and Taejun Kang.

Copyright 1998-2023, RFA. Used with the permission of Radio Free Asia, 2025 M St. NW, Suite 300, Washington DC 20036. For any commercial use of RFA content please send an email to: mahajanr@rfa.org. RFA content August not be used in a manner which would give the appearance of any endorsement of any product or support of any issue or political position. Please read the full text of our Terms of Use.

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China, Singapore to Hold Joint Military Drills - Defense Ministry

Sputnik News

20230828

BEIJING (Sputnik) - China and Singapore will hold a joint military exercise from late August to mid-September to boost military cooperation, the Chinese Defense Ministry said on Monday.

"In accordance with the annual plan and the bilateral agreement, the China-Singapore joint ground forces exercise Cooperation 2023 will be held in Singapore from late August to mid-September," the ministry stated on WeChat.

During the exercise, sniper fire as well as melee combat techniques, jumping from helicopters, hostage rescue operations will be practiced.

The drills are designed to strengthen practical cooperation between the armies of China and Singapore and increase the level of real combat training of the troops, the ministry added.

A Sputnik

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Is China Still a Developing Country?

By Graham Kanwit August 28, 2023

Whether China is a developing or developed nation has long been a source of debate among researchers and China experts a especially as China has risen to become the world's second largest economy and a global manufacturing powerhouse.

At the recent summit of the BRICS countries (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) in Johannesburg, Chinese leader Xi Jinping said "China has been and will always remain a member of [the] developing countries."

However, in Washington, lawmakers in Congress have introduced legislation requiring the U.S. administration to use its influence in international organizations to strip China of its status as a developing nation.

The debate may sound academic, but it has real-world implications. The benefits that come with the developing nation label include preferential tariff treatment from developed countries, making their exports more competitive in international markets. China also uses its developing status to justify subsidies to industries such as fishing and tech, even when many are effectively state-owned and have global impact.

The development status of a country is determined in different ways by different international organizations. The World Trade Organization, for example, allows countries to self-identify as "developing" or "developed."

Other international organizations like the World Bank and International Monetary Fund employ a variety of metrics to measure a country's standard of living, using indicators such as average national income per person, gross national income (GNI) per capita, life expectancy, and education measures.

Weifeng Zhong, a senior research fellow at George Mason's Mercatus Institute, tells VOA these are different ways of trying to measure the same thing.

"I think it comes down to, on a per capita level a meaning per person a how high the income is, so when the national income per person in a country is high enough, we think of them as developed country rather than developing country," Zhong said.

How China is classified

Beijing classifies itself as a "developing" country in the WTO. However, the World Bank and U.N. Development Program classify China as an "upper middle income" country, while the IMF calls the country an "emerging and developing economy."

Analysts say China is unique in ways that make it defy easy classification.

"You have a country that has many of the traits of a developing nation and has historically qualified as one and technically in many ways still qualifies as one, but has also many of the attributes of a rich advanced economy and in some ways a massive rich advanced economy," Philippe Benoit, director of research at Global Infrastructure Analytics and Sustainability 2050, told VOA.

China also defies classification on another commonly used indicator - energy consumption. "For structural reasons, energy demand, energy use in China is going to increase for a number of years until they achieve a level of development, a level of income per capita that allows them to flatten that," Benoit said.

China's burgeoning energy needs have spurred the state to seek resources in poorer developing countries.

But China often behaves like a developed nation internationally, some analysts say. Many developing countries, particularly Latin America, Africa, and Central Asia, rely on China for development assistance and infrastructure funding.

Benoit calls China a "hybrid superpower." He said its global power projection approximates that of a traditional superpower and it displays developed country traits such as its major investments in tech and high speed rail . It also has highly developed cities such as Beijing and Shanghai.

But he adds, China also has developing country traits, such as the persistence of poverty in many areas of the country. In 2019, the International Energy Agency (IEA) found more than 35% of the population in China still lacked clean cooking technology and relied on highly polluting fuels such as coal.

"What we mean when we say developing is a country that faces significant poverty issues a where there's inadequate access to water, sanitation, transport, education a countries where the standards of living are basically, as a general proposition, unacceptably low," Benoit said.

Robert Ross, professor of political science at Boston College and associate at the John King Fairbank Center for Chinese Studies at Harvard University, told VOA the developing nation classification no longer matches economic realities given China's reduction of extreme poverty and its status as the second largest economy and the world's largest manufacturer.

"Many Chinese people acknowledge 'it makes no sense to treat us as a developing country,' and they will acknowledge that it undermines both the interests of the developing world and gives them unfair advantages in the American domestic economy," Ross said.

US-China relations

The question of China's development status has added to Washington and Beijing's strained relationship. In March, the U.S. House of Representatives unanimously passed a bill called the PRC Is Not a Developing Country Act.

On June 8, the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee also approved the bill, now retitled the Ending China's Developing Nation Status Act. It calls on the State Department to "take actions to stop China from being classified as a developing nation by international organizations." No date has been set for the full Senate to vote on the bill.

In response to the Foreign Relations Committee's approval of the act, Wang Wenbin, spokesman for China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, accused the U.S. of attempting to sabotage China's development.

"China's status as the world's largest developing country is rooted in facts and international law. It's not something that can easily be wiped away by a U.S. Congressional bill," Wenbin said at a June 9 press conference. He added, "It's not up to the U.S. to decide whether China is a developing country."

Ross said China's development status "is not a very important question," but rather a political issue between two competing superpowers.

"China is resisting American efforts to improve American competitiveness against China, and so with that, the United States has a trade war and a tech war to undermine China's economic development and its technological development. For China's part a it's the part that's competing with the United States a it's going to use every instrument available to improve its own position."

With many developing nations benefiting from Chinese investments and trade, Ross said these countries are unlikely to endorse efforts by the U.S. to change China's development status, especially since they see this issue as a political war of words between the two superpowers.

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Former Guizhou Party chief placed under investigation

Global Times

By Global Times Published: Aug 29, 2023 02:11 AM

Sun Zhigang, former chief of the Provincial Party Committee in Southwest China's Guizhou Province, is suspected of serious violations of discipline and law and is currently under a disciplinary review and supervision investigation by the Central Commission for Discipline Inspection of the Communist Party of China (CCDI), according to the CCDI website on Monday.

Sun was born in May 1954 in Central China's Henan Province, and joined the Communist Party of China (CPC) in September 1976.

Sun was appointed as a member of the Standing Committee of the Hubei Provincial Committee of the CPC in 2002. In 2006, Sun served as member of the Standing Committee of Anhui Provincial Committee of the CPC, and as executive vice governor.

In 2013, Sun became deputy director of the National Health and Family Planning Commission, and director of the State Council Medical Reform Office.

Sun became deputy Party secretary and acting governor of Guizhou Province in 2015, and in January of the following year, he became governor of Guizhou Province. In 2017, Sun became the Party chief of Guizhou Province, before stepping down in 2020.

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Respected Comrade Kim Jong Un Makes Congratulatory Speech in Celebration of Navy Day

Korean Central News Agency of DPRK

Pyongyang, August 29 (KCNA) -- The respected Comrade Kim Jong Un paid a congratulatory visit to the Navy Command on the occasion of the Navy Day, the holiday of the glorious Navy of the Korean People's Army, and made a meaningful speech to congratulate all the service personnel of the Navy.

He said:

Paying a congratulatory visit to the headquarters of the Navy on the occasion of the Navy Day, I would like to convey a floral basket to extend warm congratulations to all the officers and men of our Navy upon the authorization by our Party and government.

I pay militant salute to all the commanding officers and soldiers of the navy, who are reliably defending the sovereignty, territorial integrity and peace of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, flying the flags of warships associated with feats even at this moment, and extend warm greetings to the families of the service personnel of the Navy who are lavishing affection and love on defending the territorial waters along with the sailors.

To strengthen the naval force has always arisen as an essential task for the national defence and the army building in the DPRK, a maritime country surrounded by the sea on three sides, in view of the historical and practical requirements, he said, and went on:

So far, the tentacles of aggression against our country have been stretched mainly through sea, and our people had been compelled to undergo miserable suffering for a long time.

On August 28, 1949, the historic day 74 years ago, we finally proclaimed the establishment of a fleet, the solemn start of the proud history of the Navy, and have trained our own naval force since then. This brilliant course has so far played a really great and important role in defending peace of this country.

Recorded in the sacred history of our People's Army, which has reliably defended the sovereignty and dignity of the Republic with arms since its founding day up to now, is the distinguished contribution by the Navy which has covered a militant course full of peerless heroism and bravery, and its role in rapidly changing military theory and practice is being further prioritized with each passing day.

In modern warfare, the navy is a comprehensive war force that has various strike means and even the nuclear deterrence of the state and operates them. It is possible to defend the security of the country with fully prepared naval force only.

For the important role of the navy and, in particular, the geopolitical peculiarity of our state, it is even contended that the ground, naval and air forces should be called the naval, ground and air forces in the future.

Our navy should play the biggest role in defending the sovereignty, dignity and development and interests of the DPRK in the future, too, as well as in contingency.

In order to acquaint myself with the urgent problems arising in strengthening the naval force of such great significance on the spot and to propose a series of important measures, I inspected the Guards 2nd Surface Ship Flotilla of the East Sea Fleet some days ago and have visited the Navy Command ahead of the Navy Day.

Saying that he could hardly repress his deep reverence for the sacred 70-odd years of the KPA Navy as he came to see the brave frontline soldiers defending the Party and the revolution on the long sea route and the commanding officers of the Navy who have kept to the route of loyalty, firmly holding fast to the helm of faith without any change even in the raging waves, he continued:

Born from scratch with the indomitable spirit as its lifeblood, our Navy has recorded the annals of the revolution with victories and miracles by fully displaying the mettle and courage of boldly fighting against any formidable enemy without fear.

The glorious history of the Navy spanning over 70 years is constituted by the brilliant records of the great self-sacrificing spirit and the heroic struggle of the sailors who were able to defend the country and the revolution only with victory.

Although our Navy had not been armed with up-to-date weapons and combat equipment, the military merits it had performed were by no means inferior to those of other services, but great achievements of more weighty significance than any other services.

The blue sea guarded by you has become the theater of the lingering fiercest confrontation with the hostile forces even today, to say nothing of the period of the Fatherland Liberation War and the postwar period.

The sea represented the dignity and honor of the country and the victory or failure of the battle in the sea always decided the result of confrontation decisive of the destiny of the country and the people.

The enemy our Navy faced for the first time and those it had to fight against constantly were the powerful forces boasting of the naval warfare history of one hundred and tens of years, but our sailors fought more bravely and stubbornly without flinching even an inch because their battles were directly linked to the victory of the country.

From the postwar period up to now, our sea has never been in peace, but has always been clear and blue thanks to the indomitable spirit and bravery of our naval fighters and has been firmly defended as rich resources and wealth of the country and the people.

Thanks to our Navy, indeed, there has been no space in the sea for the invaders to intrude, though it is very vast over the horizon.

Whenever the country faced grave challenges and crises, the indomitable images of our sailors stood out in bolder relief and our proud naval flags fluttered at the battlefields where the honor of heroic Korea was demonstrated in peacetime, not wartime.

The invulnerable bravery, displayed in the sea battle against the pirates, incomparably huger in the light of combat personnel and military equipment, made the characteristics peculiar to our People's Army and the secret of its invincibility be known widely, and the history of our victorious Navy bringing world-startling combat results adds glory to the long history of army building.

The fame of the KPA Navy is brilliantly inscribed as the symbol of bravery and faith of our indomitable people and as the honor of the foremost defender of our Party and revolution.

Invincibility must be an unchangeable banner of our Navy and the honor of the country should go along with the feats of the sailors in the future, too.

He said that it is the supreme task facing the naval force to develop into a powerful Juche-based service capable of perfectly carrying out its historic mission for the defence of the territorial waters and the preparations for a revolutionary war.

The Eighth Congress of the WPK set forth the militant tasks for developing our revolutionary armed forces into a genuine army of the Party modeled on the monolithic idea and an ultra-modern army and radically improving the modernity and fighting capacity of the Navy in a short span of time in conformity with the requirements of the developing revolution and the state security and the new world trend of military development.

To achieve the successes in rapidly developing the naval force has become a very urgent issue in view of the enemies' recent aggressive attempts and character of military actions.

Recently, the U.S. imperialists are getting more frantic than ever before in the joint naval military exercises with their vassal forces in the waters around the DPRK, while putting the deployment of reinforced nuclear strategic assets in the waters around the Korean peninsula on a permanent basis.

Recently, the gang bosses of the U.S., Japan and the "Republic of Korea" were closeted with each other, where they announced that they would conduct on a regular basis the tripartite joint military exercises under different codenames, and set about its implementation.

Owing to the reckless confrontational moves of the U.S. and other hostile forces, the waters off the Korean Peninsula have been reduced into the world's biggest war hardware concentration spot, the most unstable waters with the danger of a nuclear war.

The prevailing situation requires our Navy to put all its efforts into rounding off the war readiness to maintain the constant combat alertness, and get prepared to break the enemy's will for war in contingency and carry out the military strategy of the Supreme Headquarters.

What is most important to this end is the extraordinary fighting spirit of the commanding officers and soldiers who are filled with the combat spirit and bravery to annihilate the enemy, cherishing in mind the honorable mission and duty of the defence of the sea entrusted with by the country.

If our Navy is to fulfill its mission, the military technical growth should be accompanied and prioritized, of course, now, but the most important thing is to firmly maintain the political, moral and ideological superiority of our army and further cultivate it since fight is a spiritual and ideological confrontation as proven by history.

If we are strong ideologically, the enemy can not attack us.

High ideological spirit of our seamen - this is what the arrogant aggressors' strike group is afraid of and why it dares not intrude into our territorial waters although it sails around the world oceans at its will. And as our people trust that spirit as firm as a rock, they are pushing forward with production and construction for prosperity.

Saying that the political and ideological superiority should be followed by military technical development in a balanced manner, he indicated the plan of our Party and the tasks to be fulfilled immediately to radically increase the modernity and combat capability of the navy by putting spurs to the modernization of the naval weapons and equipment.

Noting that units of different services would be equipped with new weaponry according to the policy of expanding the tactical nuclear weapons operation specified in the line of building the state nuclear force, he stressed that the navy of the DPRK would become a component of the state nuclear deterrence carrying out the strategic duty.

He set it as the most important requirement to more thoroughly establish the Party Central Committee's monolithic command system throughout the navy in developing as early as possible the KPA Navy into a powerful service which is fully ready for war.

To strengthen the monolithic command system is the basis of the development of the naval force and the fundamental guarantee for its improvement, he said, and went on:

You should always keep in mind that the combat capability of the Navy, which can be mobilized most quickly and accurately and perform its duty under the order of the Party Central Committee, is provided on the basis of the spirit of absolute loyalty and obedience.

All the Party and political organs of the Navy should focus on making all the naval officers and men correctly follow the course drawn by the Party in the boundless ocean where there are no signs and guides, and completely destroy the attack target set by the Party Central Committee without fail within the set time.

He said that it is necessary to give priority to the mental training of all the service personnel as it is always the keynote of strengthening the power of the Navy to surely maintain the superiority of the ideological and spiritual strength.

War is a showdown of ideologies, isms and morality, before being the one of technology and equipment, he said, adding:

No matter changes in our strength and methods of fighting a war and in the patterns of enemy's military actions, our fighting method and tradition of victory based on political, ideological, mental and moral superiority can never change.

Actually necessary in battlefields is not the numerical and technical superiority of weaponry but the overwhelming ideological and spiritual might of the soldiers who handle them. This is the revolutionary philosophy and unique war doctrine of the heroic Korean People's Army.

Our Navy should be overflowing with the creed that there is neither an unbeatable enemy nor an unwinnable fight for a soldier armed with indomitable spirit. And it is important to ensure the continuity of such unique tradition without an iota of concession or deviation.

In particular, it should strive to follow the heroic spirit of the preceding generations.

The colors of the glorious naval forces of the DPRK are shining with the indomitable fighting spirit displayed by the brave naval fighters of the preceding generation, including Hero Kim Kun Ok and Hero Chae Jong Bo, the noble example set by them at the cost of their blood and lives.

Seeing the glorious colors and warship flags day and night, the naval officers and men should get militant encouragement from the feats of the heroes of the preceding generation associated with the colors and flags, and make intentional efforts to successfully carry forward their great sailor spirit. And this should become a part of their daily routine.

All the officers and men of the Navy should personify the indomitable fighting spirit of the brave fighters of the preceding generation forever, further enhance it and thus steadily glorify the honor of the revolutionary naval force which has humbled the bluffing enemy and always emerged victorious by dint of their steadfast ideology and excellent moral traits.

When the officers and men of the Navy harden their comradely cohesion and smilingly break through any hardship and difficulties by dint of the unity and courage, which are peculiar to the brave seamen, who do anything in a vigorous and ambitious manner and with immeasurable strength anywhere and anytime, and which are unique to the heroic sailors sharing life and death, they will be able to remain boundlessly loyal to the mission and duty they assumed before the Party, the revolution, the country and the people.

He stressed that the key to rapidly improving the combat capability of the Navy lies in dynamically pushing forward with the modernization of arms and equipment and properly conducting practical actual maneuvers in an actual war environment at the same time.

He underlined the need to fully arm the officers and men of the units and sub-units at all levels with our Party's Juche-oriented naval and underwater war methods and focus on developing new strategic and tactical plans for getting familiar with ever-changing patterns of naval warfare and countering the enemy's methods of war for aggression and war tactics at present.

He also stressed the need to always pay attention to maintaining the current performance of warships, weapons and equipment in service and heightening their combat readiness, urging the personnel in charge of training to continue to set high targets and organize and carry on the actual maneuvers, which are close to actual war as much as possible, in an increasingly diverse and purposeful manner and on the principle of remarkably augmenting the combat capabilities for definitely deterring the U.S. imperialist aggressor forces' and their followers' ever-escalating reckless moves to provoke a nuclear war.

He said that all the officers and men of the Navy should successfully carry out all kinds of combat duties, including maritime guard duty, with a high degree of alertness and awareness that the security and peace of the territorial waters of the Republic depend on their strength and efforts, thus thoroughly ensuring the prosperity of the country and the security and happiness of the people militarily.

Recalling that the revolutionary spirit and mettle of the sailors, who remain loyal to the cause of the Party and ardently love the country, are fully displayed at the sites of grand socialist construction and they are praised by the people, he said that sailors should always remember the trust and expectations of the Party and the people and sincerely live up to them as usual.

Noting that he is most proud of our Navy, he said our people's navy is the elite navy with such prominent fighting efficiency and heroism as its sailors are fully determined to dedicate without regret and hesitation their youth and life to protecting the security of the country and the peace of its territorial waters.

He hoped that the Navy would demonstrate its honor as the revolutionary one that plays a core and vanguard role not only in defending the territorial waters of the country but also in socialist construction and produce the best and richest results.

He went on:

All the officers and men of the naval force!

I believe that you will strengthen your unity in good health, wage an arduous struggle for the eternal prosperity of the DPRK and the happiness of its people, and surely usher in a golden age of the development of the Juche-based naval force.

Let us all struggle courageously and stubbornly to the end to achieve fresh successes in the preparations for a revolutionary war for accomplishing national reunification, continue to fully demonstrate the mightiness of the heroic people's navy and add luster to its honor.

Long live the heroic Navy of the Korean People's Army! -0-

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Video message by Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock for the 32nd Baltic Sea Parliamentary Conference

Germany Federal Foreign Office

28.08.2023 - Speech

"Our unity is our life insurance."

I've heard this sentence very often in the past one and a half years - from Foreign Ministers, but also from the European business community and civil society, as well as from citizens in Germany and across Europe.

For me, this sentence is one of the big lessons from Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine.

After all, it was our unity that meant that we've stood firmly by the side of the people in Ukraine from day one.

And it's our unity that guarantees a life in freedom for the people in our countries.

This is why we've taken our cooperation to a new level in the Baltic Sea region in recent months.

Because the Baltic Sea is a natural treasure at the heart of Europe that we share in.

We want to preserve this treasure and use it still more effectively in the future.

Together, we're seeking to make the region a powerhouse for clean energy.

By 2030, we want to install seven times as many offshore wind farms in the Baltic Sea as there are now.

In so doing, we want to reduce our dependence on fossil fuels as this not only benefits the climate but also makes people's lives in our countries more secure.

At the same time, we want to do more to preserve the Baltic Sea as a natural resource for millions of people.

The seabed of the Baltic Sea is littered with so many tonnes of munition from past wars that you could load 11,000 lorries with it.

This munition is a ticking time bomb as it is rotting away and releasing dangerous substances that can end up on our plates - in mussels, fish and other marine creatures.

We have therefore launched an initiative for locating and recovering it.

I'm very grateful to the Baltic Sea Parliamentary Conference for putting this issue on the agenda time and again.

After all, we need the support and expertise of all parts of our societies - from the worlds of politics, business and science.

But, first and foremost, we need dialogue beyond borders in order to drive forward such projects together.

And this is precisely the spirit of the Baltic Sea Parliamentary Conference.

This forum isn't about having all the answers, but about listening and discussing very tangible solutions - in other words, it's about doing things better together.

And so I'm delighted that you're all gathering together in Berlin today.

In so doing, you're also working to promote something that has been a guarantor of our security for decades:

unity between people in our societies across the Baltic Sea region.

This unity is our life insurance.

Thank you very much.

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Prime Minister speaks with President of the Russian Federation

India - Ministry of External Affairs

August 28, 2023

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi had a telephone conversation today with the President of the Russian Federation, H.E Mr. Vladimir Putin.

The two leaders reviewed progress on number of issues of bilateral cooperation and exchanged views on regional and global issues of mutual concern, including the recently concluded BRICS Summit in Johannesburg.

President Putin conveyed his inability to attend the G20 Summit in New Delhi on 9-10 September 2023 and informed that Russia would be represented by Foreign Minister of the Russian Federation, H.E. Mr. Sergey Lavrov.

While expressing an understanding for Russia's decision, PM thanked President Putin for Russia's consistent support to all initiatives under India's G20 Presidency.

The two leaders agreed to remain in touch.

New Delhi

August 28, 2023

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India & Bangladesh hold the fifth Annual Defence Dialogue in Dhaka

India - Press Information Bureau

Ministry of Defence

Posted On: 28 AUG 2023 4:49PM by PIB Delhi

India and Bangladesh held the fifth Annual Defence Dialogue on 28 August 2023 in Dhaka. Defence Secretary Shri Giridhar Aramane, who is on a two day visit to Bangladesh on 27-28 August 2023, co-chaired the meeting with his Bangladeshi counterpart Lt Gen Waker-Uz-Zaman, Principal Staff Officer, Armed Forces Division.

The Annual Defence Dialogue between India and Bangladesh is the highest institutionalized interactive mechanism between both the countries. In the dialogue, both the countries highlighted its significance in chartering the future course of the relations between the two Armed Forces.

During the meeting, the ongoing defence cooperation activities between the two countries were reviewed and both sides expressed satisfaction at the increasing defence cooperation engagements. The talks covered the existing bilateral exercises and both sides agreed to increase the complexity of these exercises.

Shri Giridhar Aramane and Lt Gen Waker-Uz-Zaman acknowledged the fruitful dialogue and stressed that both countries look forward to continued engagement based on the common understanding reached at the fifth Annual Defence Dialogue.

The Armed Forces of both countries continue to seek bilateral cooperation in multiple fields and the increased engagements are a positive sign for the future of the relations of both countries.

***

ABB/GC/Anand



(Release ID: 1952947)

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BRICS membership can bolster economic power: Iran's FM

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

Aug 28, 2023

Tehran, IRNA -- Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian has said that BRICS membership can boost economic power, as well as international cooperation in a system based on multilateralism

Speaking to reporters on Monday, Amirabdollahian discussed the benefits of joining the BRICS group of emerging economies for Iran.

Pointing to the conditions of joining BRCIS, the top Iranian diplomat noted that from among the 40 countries applying to joint BRICS, Iran was evaluated as qualified by experts of five main member states to join the body.

The role of heads of states' diplomacy in joining BRICS was significant, he said, adding that Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi consulted with all heads of the five main countries in BRICS and the diplomatic apparatus used all its capacities, and finally active diplomacy led Iran to become an official member of the BRICS.

He reiterated that Iran has entered into a new coalition by joining BRICS that can boost economic power as well as international cooperation in a system based on multilateralism.

3266**2050

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Iranian President inaugurates phase 11 of South Pars gas field

ISNA - Iranian Students' News Agency

Mon / 28 August 2023 / 13:58

Tehran (ISNA) - Iranian President stated, "Today, we should be proud that not only the country's oil industry is no longer dependent on the presence of foreign consultants, but the capabilities of the country's oil industry specialists have reached a level that today the Islamic Republic, as a powerful and technological country, is comparable to other countries, and also provides technical and engineering services, especially to the countries under sanctions of hegemons".

Speaking at the ceremony of "starting gas production from phase 11 of the South Pars common field" in Asaluyeh, President Ebrahim Raisi described the launch of this phase as a big and lasting step in the field of oil and gas industry of the country and said, "The implementation of this project by the competent domestic experts took place while the foreign companies that were parties to the contract had abandoned their obligations under the pretext of sanctions and the country was under the most severe sanctions".

The President called the transfer of the gas platform from phase 12 of South Pars field to this field and the launch of this project 3 years earlier than the time required for the implementation of such a project as other special features of this project and added, "In the implementation of this project, there were also significant financial savings".

President Raisi described the implementation of this project as a complex technical operation and in a way unique and income-generating for the country and stated, "By launching this phase, a significant part of our country's rights will be claimed from the common fields, and therefore I sincerely appreciate the efforts of the oil industry in this sector and the patience of their families".

Pointing out that the production of 7 million cubic meters of this phase will increase to more than 50 million cubic meters, the President stated, "Today, measures and plans in the field of oil and gas and energy in general are being followed with high motivation in the country".

The President stated, "Today, we should be proud that not only the country's oil industry is no longer dependent on the presence of foreign consultants, but the capabilities of the country's oil industry specialists have reached a level that today the Islamic Republic, as a powerful and technological country, is comparable to other countries, and also provides technical and engineering services, especially to the countries under sanctions of hegemons".

Upon his arrival in Asaluyeh city, President Raisi visited the site of phase 11 of the South Pars field, which is the largest joint gas field in the world, and visited the platform and gas production facilities of the southernmost and one of the most important phases of the Iranian part of this huge field.

President visited its various parts and was briefed about the details of the unique operation of transferring the platform of this phase of the twelfth phase and also the launch of this important phase of South Pars Square.

During this visit, the President also had a conversation with the workers and engineers present at this platform who work day and night in this production field in harsh sea conditions.

Phase 11 is the southernmost and border phase of the South Pars gas field, and in this sense, it is the most important phase of this field, because if it is not extracted, the gas will migrate to the southern parts.

Over the past 20 years, the operation of launching this phase was entrusted to foreign companies many times, but these companies left the construction and launch operations unfinished each time under the pretext of embargo, until in the year 1400, when the 13th Administration took office, this project was given priority and by handing them over to domestic companies and relying on the capabilities of our country's experts, after a 20-year hiatus, it has been opened today and gas production operations will begin after 2 years of jihadist and round-the-clock efforts.

By exploiting this phase, 56 million cubic meters will be added to the production of gas and gas condensate in the country, which will provide the country with an income of 5 billion dollars per year and will increase the gross domestic product by about 1%.

End Item

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Iran has no more frozen funds in any country, can use its assets: FM Amir-Abdollahian

Iran Press TV

Monday, 28 August 2023 4:32 PM

Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian says Tehran has no more funds blocked in any country due to the US sanctions and can now utilize its own assets.

Amir-Abdollahian made the remarks while speaking to reporters in Tehran on Monday after Iran and the United States reached a deal regarding the unblocking of some $6 billion worth of Iran's funds illegally blocked in South Korea under the pretext of US sanctions.

South Korean media reported on August 21 that the Iranian funds were transferred from South Korea to Switzerland's central bank last week to be sent to Iran.

Pointing to the export of Iranian gas and electricity to Iraq, Amir-Abdollahian said the revenues earned from such sales would be deposited to the TBI (Trade Bank of Iraq), following which the Central Bank of Iran would use that money to buy the country's required goods.

He added that the Iranian administration, since taking office some two years ago, has carried out serious measures to release the country's blocked assets.

"Last year, we collected 390 million pounds of Britain's debt which were related to the period before the victory of the Islamic Revolution [in 1979]," the top Iranian diplomat said.

Iran used the released funds in a "legal and dignified" way for the purposes it preferred, he added, dismissing the oil-for-food claims about the assets.

Britain had delayed the payment for many years citing problems faced because of foreign sanctions against Iran. However, Tehran has insisted the debt should be settled regardless of issues that exist between Iran and the West.

The money was owed to Iran over an upfront payment made by the former Shah of Iran to Britain to buy 1,750 Chieftain tanks and other military vehicles.

Iran's BRICS membership can boost international economic power

Elsewhere in the presser, Amir-Abdollahian said Iran's membership in the BRICS group of emerging economies can enhance international economic power and cooperation in a system based on multilateralism.

The top diplomat said the five main members of the BRICS have confirmed that from among the 40 countries applying to join the bloc, Iran has the necessary capabilities and qualifications to become a new member.

He added that Iran's admission to BRICS was accepted despite the existence of sanctions against the country.

The Iranian foreign minister hailed the "very important" role of the BRICS leaders in Iran's joining the group and said President Ebrahim Raeisi had consulted with all the leaders of the bloc, namely Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, in this regard.

He emphasized that the Iranian diplomatic apparatus also used its utmost capacities, noting that an active diplomacy finally led to the country's official membership.

Addressing the 15th BRICS Summit in Johannesburg on Thursday, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa announced that the member states agreed to admit Iran, Argentina, Egypt, Ethiopia, the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia as new members from January 1, 2024.

BRICS has gained a special place in Iran's foreign policy due to its increasing importance in the international political economy and geopolitical developments.

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Japan should reflect on international opposition to its selfish and irresponsible act: Chinese FM

Global Times

By Global Times Published: Aug 28, 2023 05:50 PM

China has always protected the safety and legitimate rights and interests of foreigners in China in accordance with the law, and China strongly urges the Japanese side to immediately cease the dumping of nuclear-contaminated wastewater into the ocean, while the Japan should reflect on the international opposition to its selfish and irresponsible act, the Chinese Foreign Ministry said on Monday.

Foreign Ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin made the remarks during a regular press conference on Monday in response to a journalist's question about the incidents of "throwing stones and eggs" targeting Japanese schools in China.

The Japanese government has disregarded strong questioning and opposition from the international community and unilaterally initiated the dumping. Surrounding countries and the broader international community widely criticize the Japanese government for its selfish and irresponsible behavior, and have taken corresponding preventive measures, Wang noted.

Wang said that a spokesperson from the North Korean Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that the Japanese side, disregarding strong protests, opposition and warnings from both domestic and international communities, is persistently implementing the plan to dump nuclear-contaminated wastewater into the ocean, which is a selfish act aimed at personal gain and a inhumane criminal act that is to cause nuclear disasters for humanity.

Prime Minister of Solomon Islands said that he strongly opposes Japan's decision to dump nuclear-contaminated wastewater into the ocean, as it will have a significant impact on the marine environment, economy and livelihood of the Solomon Islands people.

Vanuatu's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs called for a boycott over Japan's actions. Ministry of Natural Resources and the Environment of the Russian Federation stated that Japan's dumping will compel regional countries to expand the scale and intensity of monitoring of marine environmental and biological radiation, Wang added.

The Prime Minister of South Korea said that if it is found that Japan's dumping of nuclear-contaminated water into the ocean does not meet concentration standards for radioactive elements, South Korea will immediately demand Japan to stop the dumping and initiate international litigation. South Korea will also maintain the import ban on water products from eight prefectures including Fukushima, Wang said.

Wang noted that the Democratic Party of Korea has pointed out that dumping nuclear-contaminated wastewater into the ocean is an act of environmental terrorism. The Federal Environmental Minister of Germany said that they strongly criticize any behavior that releases additional radioactive substances into the ocean, and the option of discharging into the sea should only be considered as a last resort after exhausting all other means. It must be based on scientific grounds and implemented with transparency.

Additionally, the Director-General of the Malaysian Ministry of Health said that they will elevate the food risk inspection levels for imported Japanese food. The Thai Food and Drug Administration announced that they will strengthen the inspection of imported seafood from Japan, with the sample size for random checks doubled, Wang added.

Wang said that after Japan's dumping of nuclear-contaminated wastewater into the ocean, opposition within Japan has also intensified. The Democratic Party of Japan expressed concerns about the government's violation of its commitment to proceed with the discharge. The Social Democratic Party of Japan said that discharging nuclear-contaminated water into the sea is an act of violence and the deliberate dispersal of radioactive substances into the ocean is unforgivable.

The National Federation of Fisheries Cooperative Associations of Japan and the fisheries cooperatives of Miyagi jointly issued a statement, saying that their opposition to the discharge has not changed at all. Groups representing victims of the Hiroshima nuclear explosion held a rally, calling for the cessation of the discharge, Wang noted.

According to a Japanese opinion poll, approximately 40 percent of respondents are against Japan's action, while 88.1 percent of the respondents expressed concern that the discharge plan would damage Japan's image and potential economic interests. A total of 81.9 percent of the respondents believe that the explanation provided by the Japanese government is insufficient, said Wang.

Even the US, which claims to be satisfied with Japan's plan to dump nuclear-contaminated wastewater into the ocean, has reportedly reduced its imports of agricultural and aquatic products from Japan in the first half of this year, Wang said. "I think everyone can go and ask the US side what exactly they are worried about," he said.

Wang stressed that China strongly urges the Japanese side to take into account the legitimate concerns of all parties, immediately cease the dumping, fully consult with neighboring countries and other relevant stakeholders and responsibly handle the issue.

In response to the concerns expressed by the public about the marine environment and the safety of seafood, Wang stated that China has continuously conveyed a stern position to Japan through diplomatic channels, demanding that Japan stop the forced discharge plan.

The Chinese governments have taken measures to monitor the marine radiation environment and the risk of nuclear contamination in marine products to ensure the health and safety of the Chinese people, said Wang.

In response to concerns among Japanese people in China that anti-Japanese actions have become more frequent and public, Wang said that China has always safeguarded the safety and legitimate rights and interests of foreigners in China in accordance with the law.

Japanese Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs Masataka Okano met with Ambassador Wu Jianghao of China on Monday afternoon, according to the Chinese Embassy in Japan.

Wu reiterated China's stance on the issue of Fukushima nuclear-contaminated wastewater being discharged into the sea, emphasizing that the Japanese side's discharge poses enormous risks and unpredictable harm to the global marine environment and the health and safety of all mankind, and has caused strong indignation from the international community, including China.

The Japanese discharge has serious moral, scientific, and legal problems, and this erroneous behavior should be immediately stopped. Japan should honestly communicate with neighboring countries with a truly responsible attitude, accept strict supervision from the international community, and effectively dispose of the nuclear-contaminated water in a scientific, safe and transparent manner, said Wu.

Additionally, Wu made solemn representations regarding the harassment suffered by the Chinese Embassy and Consulates in Japan, stating that the Chinese diplomatic missions in Japan have recently received a large number of harassing phone calls from within Japan, seriously disrupting their normal operations.

China urges Japan to handle this matter in accordance with the law and effectively ensure the safety of Chinese diplomatic premises, personnel, as well as the safety of Chinese institutions, enterprises, citizens and Chinese tourists in Japan, Wu noted.

Wu said that China will continue to legally guarantee the security of the Japanese Embassy and Consulates in China and the legitimate rights and interests of Japanese citizens in China.

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Upset about Fukushima, Chinese netizens bash Japan, make nuisance calls

Some Hong Kong news outlets point out that Chinese reactors' wastewater is more contaminated.

By Gao Feng, Gu Ting and Sun Cheng for RFA Mandarin, Fong Tak Ho for RFA Cantonese 2023.08.28 -- Chinese social media was awash with anti-Japanese sentiment on Monday after Beijing criticized the release of wastewater from the crippled Fukushima nuclear plant into the surrounding ocean, sparking fears of tainted seafood and environmental damage.

"Get off the planet, Japanese devils!" user @OurBigBrotherMao wrote.

"Folks, you know what to do next, right?" @winealleyidiot wrote. "There are 1.4 billion people."

Japanese businesses and public venues from concert halls to aquariums also were targeted by large numbers of nuisance callers from China, who posted video of themselves to social media making the calls.

The moves prompted Japan's top regional diplomat Hiroyuki Namazu to call on the Chinese Embassy to calm its citizens down. Many of the posts seemed to come from the country's army of national "little pink" commentators.

"We strongly urge the Chinese government to take appropriate measures, such as calling on its citizens to act calmly, and to take all possible measures to ensure the safety of Japanese residents in China and Japanese diplomatic missions in China," he said in a statement.

The owners of four restaurants and pastry shops in Fukushima told Agence France-Presse that he had received about 1,000 calls on Friday, mostly from China, prompting his businesses to unplug their phones.

Fukushima city Mayor Hiroshi Kohata said on Saturday that city hall had gotten 200 similar calls in two days, and that local schools, restaurants and hotels were also targeted.

'Very irrational'

The nuisance calls weren't a good idea, said Li Ning, a Japan-based Chinese citizen.

"I don't know what they're thinking - there are so many people calling," Li said, adding that some had called hospitals. "Hospitals are there to save lives and heal the sick, and these actions could affect the treatment of patients, as well as causing huge trouble to companies and restaurants."

"A lot of people really are very irrational," he said.

Online comments seen by Radio Free Asia on Monday read: "All we ordinary folk can do is boycott all products imported from Japan," and, "As long as we're united enough, we can force little Japan to stop discharging polluted water."

Last week, news of the release of Fukushima wastewater - used to cool the reactor cores that melted down following the March 11, 2011, earthquake and tsunami - prompted the panic-buying of salt across China last week, similar to scenes after the 2011 crisis.

International experts said the radiation levels in the treated water, which contains tritium, aren't high enough to be of concern to human health.

"China is now engaging in wolf-warrior diplomacy, and its strategy on Japan is driven by political needs," a senior Hong Kong-based engineer Li Guangde told Radio Free Asia, referring to the aggressive approach used by some Chinese diplomats.

"It's using the Fukushima incident to promote anti-Japanese nationalism, and to do that it has to have a policy of ignoring the science."

Yang Haiying, a professor at Japan's Shizuoka University, agreed, saying Beijing is likely trying to distract its citizens from the burst property bubble and tanking economy.

"They can play the anti-Japanese card at any time, and aim the gun of nationalism at Japan at any time," he said. "They know very well that this treated nuclear wastewater has no impact on biology - they are playing this card from a highly political perspective."

Li cited data from the International Atomic Energy Agency as showing that levels of tritium in the Fukushima wastewater are low, and acceptable for discharge into the ocean.

"People don't have the correct scientific information, so all kinds of panic have arisen - the result of the unfortunate policy of ignoring the people, which is very damaging," he said.

Higher levels in China

A number of Japanese and Hong Kong media have reported that tritium levels in wastewater emitted by China's nuclear power stations is far higher than those of the Fukushima waste. Li said this should rather spark concerns over the safety of Chinese seafood.

Taiwan's government reported "negligible" effects on its waters from the Fukushima waste outflows.

Zhao Tong, a senior researcher at the Nuclear Policy Program at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, said: "Japan's nuclear wastewater discharge standards are in line with the safety thresholds laid down by the International Atomic Energy Agency ... so, it won't have any obvious impact on public safety or marine ecosystems."

Some media reports in Hong Kong did point out that the tritium levels in the Fukushima wastewater are actually lower than the wastewater emitted by Chinese nuclear power facilities just along the coast from Hong Kong.

But most people in mainland China don't have access to more balanced reporting on the topic, according to Wang.

"It is impossible for average Chinese people to see this kind of reporting," he said, adding that nationalistic anger is often a channel for anger at their own government, which doesn't brook public dissent or protest.

"There will be a kind of panic among the people, a kind of rebellious mentality," Wang said. "Unfortunately, this is now being vented in the direction of Japanese citizens and shopkeepers."

"It's ... just like the anti-Japanese demonstrations in 2012."

Tensions between China and Japan sparked waves of major protests in cities across China in that year, as Japanese and Chinese boats gathered in the waters around a disputed island chain in the East China Sea.

Anti-Chinese sentiment in Japan

Wang Dai, vice chairman of the political group "Front for a Democratic China," said the nuisance calls seem to be deepening anti-Chinese sentiment in Japan, too.

"The Japanese TV stations, the Asahi Shimbun, the Sankei Shimbun and other major newspapers are all focusing on the large number of nuisance calls from China," Wang said. "Japanese people who know I'm Chinese are asking me why the Chinese are doing this, and what is going on."

"This will make a lot of people feel that Japan should entirely rid itself of any dependence on China in future, including economically," he said.

Chinese Communist Party newspaper the People's Daily on Monday reported that Tokyo "has ignored the public interest and unilaterally launched the discharge of nuclear-contaminated water into the sea for its own self-interest," citing a number of regional protests against the move.

"All parties strongly urge the Japanese government to correct its wrong decision, immediately stop the discharge of nuclear-contaminated water into the sea ... so as to avoid ... unpredictable damage and hazards to people's health and well-being," the paper said.

Meanwhile, a Chinese owner of a Japanese-themed business in the southwestern province of Guizhou posted a video of himself destroying the decor, according to the X, formerly Twitter, account "Mr. Li is not your teacher."

"The owner, a millennial surnamed Fu, said the discharge of nuclear-contaminated water in Japan would affect seafood and related industries," the account said in a tweet posted Aug. 25.

"So he smashed [his restaurant] up out of nationalistic sentiment, and said he didn't feel bad about it, and that it would be turned into a Chinese restaurant in future," it said.

The Japanese Embassy in Beijing warned its citizens not to speak loudly in Japanese, AFP said.

State media appeared to be helping to whip up nationalistic sentiment in China, with a poll posted to the official Sina Weibo account of state news agency Xinhua on Aug. 24, the day authorities began discharging treated wastewater from the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant, asking readers to choose among three responses to the move.

Option 1 was "resolutely oppose, strongly condemn!", option 2 was "a disaster for future generations, a disaster for all mankind!" while option 3 was "Remember Aug. 24, 2023: Japan will enter the historical hall of shame!"

By Monday, the poll had disappeared, although references to the topic still appeared in a list of "hot searches" on Weibo.

Nuclear physicist Li Jianmang, who claimed to have worked at the China Institute of Atomic Energy for eight years, posted on Weibo that the discharge of treated radioactive wastewater "isn't worth worrying about."

He said the discharges would be closely monitored by experts at the International Atomic Energy Agency, including some from China. Li's post was also later deleted.

Translated with additional reporting by Luisetta Mudie. Edited by Malcolm Foster.

Copyright 1998-2023, RFA. Used with the permission of Radio Free Asia, 2025 M St. NW, Suite 300, Washington DC 20036. For any commercial use of RFA content please send an email to: mahajanr@rfa.org. RFA content August not be used in a manner which would give the appearance of any endorsement of any product or support of any issue or political position. Please read the full text of our Terms of Use.

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Libya suspends foreign minister over Israeli talks amid angry protests

Iran Press TV

Monday, 28 August 2023 6:17 AM

Libyan Prime Minister Abdulhamid Dbeibah says he has suspended the North African country's top diplomat after Israel's foreign ministry said their foreign ministers had met the previous week.

Najla el-Mangoush has been "temporarily suspended" and will be subject to an "administrative investigation" by a commission chaired by the justice minister, Dbeibah said on Sunday evening in an official decision posted on Facebook.

The Libyan foreign ministry sought to play down the matter, and described it as a "chance and unofficial encounter", but news of the meeting had already led to street protests in several cities.

The political row broke out Sunday after the Israeli foreign ministry said the two top diplomats had met the previous week.

The ministry said Israeli foreign minister Eli Cohen and Mangoush, his Libyan counterpart in the Tripoli-based Government of National Unity, spoke at a meeting in Rome hosted by Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani.

"I spoke with the foreign minister about the great potential for the two sides from their relations," Cohen asserted in a statement.

The Libyan foreign ministry, however, announced on Sunday evening that Mangoush had "refused to meet with any party" representing the Israeli regime.

"What happened in Rome was a chance and unofficial encounter, during a meeting with his Italian counterpart, which did not involve any discussion, agreement or consultation," the ministry said in a statement.

In the encounter, the statement said, Mangoush had reiterated "in a clear and unambiguous manner Libya's position regarding the Palestinian cause".

The ministry also criticized Israel for attempts to "present this incident" as a "meeting or talks".

Street protests

On the streets of Tripoli and its suburbs, protests erupted Sunday evening to condemn any normalization with Israel.

The protests spread to other cities where young people blocked roads, burned tires and waved the Palestinian flag.

The protesters set fire to the Israeli flag during demonstrations in the northwestern cities of al-Zawiya and Tajoura.

In Tajoura, demonstrators closed a major street in protest against the meeting. They threatened to escalate their actions, including blocking railway access to Tripoli.

Under the so-called Abraham Accords, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Sudan and Morocco signed US-brokered normalization deals with the Israeli regime in late 2020. Palestinians have denounced the deals as a "betrayal" to their cause.

on Sunday, Palestinian resistance movement Islamic Jihad said the meeting between Mangoush and Cohen is "a dangerous step back from the principles of the Ummah (Islamic nation) and falling into the swamp of normalization of relations with the Zionist regime".

"We are confident that the brotherly nation of Libya will not accept these concessionist talks, and as a free nation it will not surrender to ransom," it added.

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Libyan Gov't Removes Foreign Minister From Office Due to Meeting With Israeli Minister

Sputnik News

20230828

CAIRO (Sputnik) - Abdul Hamid Al-Dbeibeh, head of the Government of National Unity of Libya sitting in Tripoli, removed on Sunday Foreign Minister Najla Al-Mangoush from office because of her meeting with Israeli Foreign Minister Eli Cohen in Italy.

On Sunday, the Israeli Foreign Ministry said that last week, the first-ever meeting of the foreign ministers of Israel and Libya was held in Italy. The parties discussed opportunities for cooperation between the countries, among other things. Later, the Foreign Ministry of the Government of National Unity said that the meeting was "random and unofficial." The ministry also stressed that it does not support the normalization of relations with Israel and takes a firm stance on the Palestinian issue.

"Prime Minister Abdul Hamid Al-Dbeibeh has suspended Foreign Minister Najla Al-Mangoush as a precautionary measure," the press service of the government said in a statement, adding that an investigation into Al-Mangoush's actions would be conducted.

Libyan media reported on Sunday that protests began in a number of cities in the country after reports of a meeting between Al-Mangoush and Cohen emerged. The demonstrators demanded the resignation of the foreign minister.

Libya and Israel have never had diplomatic relations. Since Libya gained independence in 1951 and throughout the reign of its longtime leader Muammar Gaddafi, Libya has been part of the Arab boycott of Israel and has always voted against the country in international organizations.

At the moment, Libya is ruled by two contending governments. Libya's western part is controlled by the UN-backed Government of National Unity sitting in Tripoli, while the eastern part is under the Government of National Stability sitting in Sirte. The south of the country remains in turmoil due to civil unrest, the persisting terrorist threat and armed tribal violence.

A Sputnik

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Nearly 90 health care workers killed in post-coup military violence

Junta uses arrests and raids on medical clinics to punish or intimidate doctors and nurses.

By RFA Burmese 2023.08.28 -- Almost 90 health care workers have lost their lives in military and police raids and other junta-associated violence since the February 2021 coup d'etat, a network of medical workers associated with the anti-junta Civil Disobedience Movement told Radio Free Asia on Monday.

In most cases, the deaths were the result of arrests or targeted violence initiated by the military junta, according to Dr. Lwan Wai, a Yangon-based member of the Civil Disobedience Movement Medical Network.

"Our country is the only country in which health care workers have to worry about losing their lives simply because of treating a patient," he said. "I have never heard of such a situation in any other country."

The tally of 89 doctors and health care workers killed and 110 injured since the coup was released following last week's decision by the junta to close a private hospital in Mandalay city for three months after it had employed two doctors who had joined the Civil Disobedience Movement, or CDM, in which public employees quit their government jobs to protest the coup.

In May, the junta revoked the business licenses and shut down three other Mandalay hospitals that employed CDM health care workers.

Tens of thousands of Myanmar's government employees have left their jobs in protest of the coup as part of CDM, and more than 45,000 doctors and health workers have participated in the movement.

The CDM Medical Network also reported on Monday that 853 doctors and health workers have been arrested by the junta since the coup. In 2022 alone, the junta fired and revoked the licenses of 557 doctors associated with the movement.

The arrests, closures and raids on medical clinics and buildings are all attempts by the junta to punish or intimidate health care workers, according to the network.

Nurses, medical students, doctors

May Zon Moe, a 28-year-old CDM nurse from Aye Mya Thar Yar District Hospital in Bago region, was one of the health care workers killed by the junta, according to the network.

Those close to her say she was arrested and tortured to death by junta soldiers last February as she was returning from a mountain ridge where she had given midwife services to a patient.

In another incident, Thal Thal Win, a 40-year-old nurse from Moe Dar Gyi village of Katha township in Sagaing region was killed after being arrested by a junta patrol on Feb. 21, local residents said.

And on May 11, 23-year-old Soe Moe Naing, a second-year student at Pakokku Nursing and Midwifery Training School in Magway, was shot and killed by junta troops while treating a wounded member of a People's Defense Force.

Health officials from the shadow National Unity Government, or NUG - made up of junta opponents and former government leaders - said that medical personnel were killed and hospitals and clinics were damaged on May 20 due to the junta's targeted air strikes and ground attacks.

More recently, Dr. Zaw Htoi Aung died in a mine explosion on Aug. 15 as he was being transferred from Monywa Prison in Sagaing region. He was a CDM member and a key official in the Chindwin Medical Network, which provides health care to refugees in Sagaing.

The 34-year-old was arrested by the military council in September 2021 and sentenced to 11 years in prison under the Anti-Terrorism Act. It was unknown which organization was responsible for the landmine that killed him.

RFA contacted junta spokesman Maj. Gen. Zaw Min Tun seeking comment on the tally of health care worker deaths, but he did not respond.

NUG Health Minister Dr. Zaw Wai Soe said that justice will be served for the health workers who have lost their lives.

"We will continue to fight till we can serve justice for those who sacrificed their lives," he told RFA. "We have to record and honor these people as true martyrs."

Translated by Myo Min Soe. Edited by Matt Reed and Malcolm Foster.

Copyright 1998-2023, RFA. Used with the permission of Radio Free Asia, 2025 M St. NW, Suite 300, Washington DC 20036. For any commercial use of RFA content please send an email to: mahajanr@rfa.org. RFA content August not be used in a manner which would give the appearance of any endorsement of any product or support of any issue or political position. Please read the full text of our Terms of Use.

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Junta troops snatch villagers from monastery, kill 4

They were among 35 civilians sheltering from an artillery bombardment in Myanmar's Sagaing region.

By RFA Burmese 2023.08.28 -- Junta troops arrested six civilians who were sheltering in a monastery in Myanmar's Sagaing region and killed four of them, locals told RFA Monday.

They were among 35 people hiding there as junta troops raided Wetlet township's Kyee Kan (north) village.

Locals said troops shelled the village at dawn on Saturday before moving in.

One man, who declined to be named for fear of reprisals, said troops released two of the six people they captured.

"Four people were killed," he said. "Among them Shwe Man Thu, who was in her twenties, was raped and killed at a mango farm between Kyee Kan (north) village and Hla Taw village."

RFA has been unable to independently confirm his claim.

Pro-military Telegram chat group channels said the column that raided the village killed four members of an anti-junta People's Defense Force.

RFA's calls to the region's junta spokesperson, Tin Than Win, went unanswered Monday.

Displaced people on the rise

Raids on townships in Sagaing region since the Feb. 2021 coup have left more than 800,000 people homeless according to the U.N.

In Ye-U township, 100 kilometers (62 miles) north of Wetlet, more than 20,000 people are in need of emergency food and medical supplies according to the information officer from a local militia.

Htoo Khant Zaw from the People's Defense Comrades said that's how many people have lost their homes in the township since the coup, and are now living in makeshift tents in their villages.

"More than 20,000 people affected by the fires are facing a crisis of living and food shortages," he said.

"Although the township humanitarian group and other social groups are helping on the ground, not everyone from the 51 villages has received enough assistance. The main need is food."

He said 3,429 houses were destroyed by junta arson attacks, along with churches, monasteries, shops and other buildings.

Translated by RFA Burmese. Edited by Mike Firn and Taejun Kang.

Copyright 1998-2023, RFA. Used with the permission of Radio Free Asia, 2025 M St. NW, Suite 300, Washington DC 20036. For any commercial use of RFA content please send an email to: mahajanr@rfa.org. RFA content August not be used in a manner which would give the appearance of any endorsement of any product or support of any issue or political position. Please read the full text of our Terms of Use.

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Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's answer to a question from the "Moscow. Kremlin. Putin" programme on August 27, 2023

27 August 2023 14:28

1648-27-08-2023

Question: Is it true that BRICS could become an alternative to the G20 in the future?

Sergey Lavrov: I don't think that's necessary right now. That is not our goal. President Vladimir Putin, referring to today's meeting of BRICS members with their partners, emphasised that we are not going to disadvantage anyone. We don't want others to prevent us from implementing projects that are mutually beneficial and not aimed against anyone.

The position of the already enlarged BRICS in the G20 will be strengthened. Saudi Arabia and Argentina are part of the G20 already. The formal division of the G20 into the G7 plus and BRICS+ is now taking shape in practice. We will coordinate our approaches with the new members at the UN, the G20 and other international platforms.



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Telephone conversation with Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi

Vladimir Putin had a telephone conversation with Prime Minister of the Republic of India Narendra Modi.

August 28, 2023

16:25

Vladimir Putin once again warmly congratulated Narendra Modi on the successful touch-down of the Indian lunar lander, Chandrayaan-3, on the lunar south pole region. The sides confirmed their readiness to further develop bilateral space cooperation.

The results of the 15th BRICS Summit in Johannesburg were discussed with a focus on the importance of the agreements reached, primarily on BRICS' expansion, which undoubtedly would promote the growth of its influence in international affairs.

It was agreed to closely collaborate in the context of Russia's BRICS chairmanship, which starts on January 1, 2024. The parties also exchanged views on the upcoming G20 Summit in New Delhi.

The discussion also touched on current issues of Russian-Indian relations, which are developing progressively in the spirit of a specially privileged strategic partnership. Vladimir Putin and Narendra Modi stated that the two countries' trade and economic cooperation showed positive dynamics and expressed their shared intention to consistently implement large-scale energy projects and work together to expand the international transport and logistics infrastructure.

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Meeting with Acting Governor of Omsk Region Vitaly Khotsenko

Vladimir Putin had a working meeting with Acting Governor of the Omsk Region Vitaly Khotsenko. The discussion focused on the socioeconomic situation in the region.

August 28, 2023

13:15

The Kremlin, Moscow

Vitaly Khotsenko reminded the President that he was appointed Acting Governor of the Omsk Region five months ago. Since then, he had got to know the region well, including its potential, overall plans and the needs of the people.

According to the Governor, there has been growth in both industrial production and processing. The Omsk Region is among Russia's top 5 industrial regions. In the defence sector - the key sector - increase in revenues is 50 billion rubles, twice as much as the previous year. More professionals are being hired, with a total of 10,000 employed over the past two years. The sector currently has 30,000 employees.

As for agricultural production, despite the difficult weather conditions - floods and drought - the grain harvest is expected at three million tonnes. The production of meat, crop supplies, milk and other products is being maintained at the same level. A new area has emerged over the past five months: plant cultivation in greenhouses and in protected ground, because the region ranks among top ten in terms of the number of sunny days, which makes it possible to save energy. A major company, ECO-Kultura, Russia's largest company in terms of protected-ground vegetable production, showed interest in this area: 60 hectares of land, 30 billion rubles in investment and 1,000 people to be employed. The project has received support from the Ministry of Agriculture.

The discussion also touched on the development of logistics potential as the Trans-Siberian Railway, roads and air routes cross the region. There are also logistics routes along the Irtysh River to Kazakhstan and China. Investors were invited. There are plans to create 200,000 square metres of logistics space in the next three years. This will create 3,000 jobs and require 17 billion rubles in investment. Logistics parks will be created to make use of the region's geographical position and create a hub to organise logistics to Kazakhstan, the Far East and China.

The Acting Governor also told the President about housing construction and the region's participation in the national projects on education, construction and road repairs.

As for the special military operation, Vitaly Khotsenko said that more than 10,000 of the region's residents were taking part in it - volunteers, those who were mobilised and contract servicemen. The region is providing the necessary assistance to their families. The Defenders of the Fatherland Foundation has already processed 2,000 requests.

Vitaly Khotsenko told the President about one more initiative - the establishment of an inter-faith and inter-ethnic humanitarian centre, representing all the region's ethnic groups - Tatars, Kazakhs, Ukrainians, Belarusians and Russians. Every week, the centre also collects supplies of everything the fighters need and sends them to the special military operation zone. In addition, the region is helping the new regions.

As for the elections, Vitaly Khotsenko reported that he had already travelled to most of the municipalities. He has visited 22 out of 32 districts and will have visited all of them before the elections. During these visits, he meets with local residents and discusses their problems. A regional personnel contest modelled after the Leaders of Russia competition is launched for recruitment purposes.

The President noted that although Mr Khotsenko had not been working in the region for a long time, overall he had made a very good start. The President advised him not to neglect long-term or complicated issues. One of the main goals was to improve the environmental situation. It was necessary to work with environmental polluters. Relevant federal programmes and laws had been adopted on this issue. The President said it is necessary to compel production workers to fulfil all the requirements set by the law.

Overall, a good start had been made, the President repeated. He advised the Acting Governor to work directly with the people because it provided a good opportunity to feel what people expected and hoped for. The President noted that these grassroots contacts would also substantially increase the Acting Governor's chances of winning people's trust and being charged with work in such an important area as the Omsk Region.

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Poland, Baltics Warn Of Further Border Closures Over Wagner Fears

By RFE/RL's Belarus Service August 28, 2023

Poland and the Baltic states of Lithuania and Latvia say they will completely seal off their borders with Belarus if a "critical incident" involving Wagner mercenaries occurs, as tensions rise over the stability of the private militia following the death of its top leadership, including founder Yevgeny Prigozhin.

Speaking at a meeting of interior ministers in Warsaw on August 28, Polish Interior Minister Mariusz Kaminski said the group of nations bordering Belarus, including EU members Latvia, Lithuania and Poland, were demanding the immediate removal of Wagner troops from Belarus and the repatriation of illegal migrants in the area, to lessen the chance of a "critical incident."

"If there is a critical incident, regardless of whether it is at the Polish or Lithuanian border, we will retaliate immediately. All border crossings that have been opened so far will be closed," he said.

After a brief mutiny in late June, thousands of Wagner forces moved to Belarus as part of a deal to leave Ukraine, where they had been fighting beside Russian forces. That raised fears of the militia's intentions on the eastern frontiers of NATO and the EU, which were compounded last week by the death of Prigozhin -- and other top Wagner officials -- in a plane crash north of Moscow.

Lithuania said last week it was closing two border crossings in response to escalating tensions with Belarus, which has allowed Russia to use its territory as a staging ground for Moscow's invasion.

Agne Bilotaite, the Baltic nation's interior minister, said during the meeting in Warsaw that Vilnius plans to close two more border points -- Lavarishki (Katlovka on the Belarusian side) and Raigardas (Privalka) -- which would only leave the Salechniki (from the Belarusian side Benyakoni) and Medniki (Kamenny Log) crossings open.

The Baltic News Service (BNS) quoted Bilotaite as saying the new closures should be decided on in the "near future" and are needed to concentrate officers at border points.

Poland closed all but one of its crossings with Belarus earlier this year in response to the expulsion of several Polish diplomats from Minsk, as well as the sentencing of journalist Andrzej Poczobut by a Belarusian court to eight years in prison on charges of encouraging actions aimed at harming the national security of Belarus, trying to rehabilitate Nazism, and inciting ethnic hostility.

Warsaw says the charges are unjust and politically motivated.

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/poland-lithuania- estonia-latvia-wagner-belarus-border/32568037.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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Video of Former Embassy Moscow Service Provider and FSB Summons of U.S. Diplomats

US Department of State

Press Statement

Matthew Miller, Department Spokesperson

August 28, 2023

We have seen the video shown on Russia's state media depicting the alleged confession of Russian citizen, Mr. Robert Shonov, as well as images of apparent Federal Security Service (FSB) summons for two diplomats working at U.S. Embassy Moscow in connection to the case.

The allegations against Mr. Shonov are wholly without merit. As we have stated previously, Mr. Shonov was employed by a company contracted to provide services to the U.S. Embassy in Moscow in strict compliance with Russia's laws and regulations. Russia's targeting of Mr. Shonov under the "confidential cooperation" statute only highlights the increasingly repressive actions the Russian government is taking against its own citizens.

We strongly protest the Russian security services' attempts - furthered by Russia's state-controlled media - to intimidate and harass our employees. Russia is obligated under the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations to treat diplomats with due respect and to take all appropriate steps to prevent any attack on their person, freedom, or dignity, and we expect them to fulfill that obligation.

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Study: China Main Supplier of Critical Components for Russian Drones

By VOA News August 28, 2023

China is the main supplier of critical components for Russian drones used against Ukraine, The International Working Group on Russian Sanctions reports.

The group is co-chaired by Andriy Yermak, head of the Office of the President of Ukraine, and former U.S. Ambassador Michael McFaul, director of the Freeman-Spogli Institute for International Studies.

Russia relies heavily on foreign-made components, especially microelectronics in three of the drone models used to attack Ukraine.

According to the study, 67% of drone component shipments come from China, while 17% of them are going through Hong Kong to Russia. Turkey and The United Arab Emirates account for 5% and 2% of the components, respectively.

Components made in Japan, the Republic of Korea, Switzerland and other countries, including processors, chips, transistors, and other vital components, were also found in the drones.

"Russia is extremely active in using drones for massive attacks on infrastructure, civilian and military targets in Ukraine, so it is very disturbing to see that important components for the production of hostile UAVs come from different countries, including Ukraine's allies. This issue requires our joint immediate response. We have to take comprehensive measures to prevent the aggressor from using critical components to continue hostilities on Ukrainian soil," noted Yermak.

The group's experts called on manufacturers to do more to prevent Russia from accessing their products while bypassing economic sanctions.

It also recommended that governments investigate well-known companies that do not comply with the sanctions policy.

Counteroffensive

After liberating the southeastern settlement of Robotyne earlier this week, Ukrainian forces are pushing farther south against Russian forces in their counteroffensive.

Robotyne is 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) south of the front-line town of Orikhiv in the Zaporizhzhia region near Tokmak, a Russian-occupied road and rail hub.

Tokmak's capture would be a milestone as Ukrainian troops press southward toward the Sea of Azov in a military drive that is intended to split Russian forces following Moscow's full-scale invasion in February 2022.

"We don't stop here," said a commander who led some of the troops into Robotyne and who uses the call sign "Skala," eponymous with the battalion which he leads.

"Next, we have [the town of] Berdiansk, and then more. I made it clear to my fighters at once: Our goal is not Robotyne. Our goal is [the Sea of] Azov."

Robotyne is about 100 kilometers (62 miles) from Berdiansk, a port on the shores of the Sea of Azov, and 85 kilometers (53 miles) from the strategic city of Melitopol. Both are occupied by Russian forces.

Skala told Reuters that Ukrainian fighters have broken through what they believe is the most difficult line of Russian defenses in the south, allowing them to speed up their counteroffensive.

Russia has not confirmed the Ukrainian advance.

In its statement, Russia's Defense Ministry said Moscow's troops had repelled attacks by Kyiv's forces near Robotyne and Verbove.

Ukraine's Defense Ministry posted a video on social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter, of soldiers describing the liberation and raising the flag in the Robotyne settlement.

"Mr. President, commander-in-chief. The village of Robotyne in the Zaporizhzhia region has been liberated from the occupiers by the forces of the 27th Mechanized Brigade and adjacent units," a Ukrainian soldier said in the video.

"Robotyne has been liberated," said Deputy Defense Minister Hanna Maliar, as quoted by the military.

Maliar told Ukrainian television earlier that Kyiv's troops, who began their counteroffensive in early June, were now moving southeast of Robotyne and south of nearby Mala Tokmachka.

Fighting rages in the east

In Eastern Ukraine, fighting is grinding on as Ukrainian troops encounter vast Russian minefields and trenches.

Maliar described the battlefield situation in the east as "very hot" in the past week. She said Russian troops were gathering new forces there and regrouping, and Moscow was aiming to deploy its best troops there.

She added that in the past week, Ukrainian forces had retaken one square kilometer around Bakhmut, and Russian troops had not made any advances.

Meanwhile, four people were killed by Russian missile strikes, Ukrainian officials said.

Interior Minister Ihor Klymenko said three people were killed from a strike on a vegetable oil factory in the central Poltava region while they were working the night shift. Five others were wounded, while another person was unaccounted for.

Yermak posted photos showing the plant in flames. Klymenko said the fire had later been extinguished.

A 63-year-old woman was killed Monday morning by a Russian shelling of the village of Sadove, said Oleksandr Prokudin, governor of the Kherson region.

The Ukrainian military said Russia had launched four missiles from the Black Sea overnight, two of which were shot down.

The military also said the Kryvyi Rih region in central Ukraine had been struck in a missile attack. Local authorities said several private houses had been damaged. No casualties were reported.

Russia's Defense Ministry said Monday it downed a Ukrainian drone in the Lyubertsy region, southeast of Moscow.

As with other recent drone attacks near the Russian capital, flight operations at airports in the region were temporarily disrupted.

Russia also reported destroying two Ukrainian drones over the Bryansk region, which borders Ukraine.

Some information for this report came from The Associated Press, Agence France-Presse and Reuters.

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Putin, Modi discuss BRICS summit, bilateral ties over phone

People's Daily Online

(Xinhua) 09:51, August 29, 2023

MOSCOW, Aug. 28 (Xinhua) -- Russian President Vladimir Putin and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi held phone talks Monday on the outcomes of the recently held BRICS Summit and bilateral cooperation.

Noting the importance of the agreements reached during the 15th BRICS Summit held recently in Johannesburg, South Africa, the two leaders said the expansion of the bloc will contribute to its growing global influence, the Kremlin said.

They further exchanged views regarding the upcoming Group of 20 Summit to be held in New Delhi.

Putin congratulated Modi on the successful landing of India's Chandrayaan-3 spacecraft on the moon, and reaffirmed readiness to strengthen cooperation in the space sector.

The leaders also discussed bilateral trade ties, and cooperation in the transport, logistics and energy sectors.

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Syria denounces French, U.S. chemical weapons accusations

People's Daily Online

(Xinhua) 14:17, August 28, 2023

DAMASCUS, Aug. 27 (Xinhua) -- Syria on Saturday denied U.S. and French allegations that the country used chemical weapons near Damascus in 2013.

The Syrian Foreign Ministry vehemently condemned recent statements from the French Foreign Ministry and the spokesperson of the U.S. National Security Council about Syrian government forces' involvement in chemical attacks on Syrian soil, calling them "false accusations and fabricated incidents."

Those pronouncements are deeply intertwined with a history of misinformation and deception, and were merely an attempt to divert attention away from the true culprits, the ministry said.

The ministry mentioned the 2013 incident in Eastern Ghouta region, east of Damascus, and accused France and the United States of attempting to shroud their own roles in the matter.

The United States and its Western allies have gone as far as supplying materials and chemical weapons that were reportedly used in various incidents across Syrian territories, said the ministry.

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Syria says Aleppo airport out of service after Israeli 'aggression'

Iran Press TV

Monday, 28 August 2023 6:27 AM

Syria says a new Israeli aerial aggression has targeted Aleppo international airport in northwestern Syria, putting the facility out of service.

Citing a military source, the official Syrian Arab News Agency (SANA) said the air raid was conducted at around 04:30 a.m. local time (0130 GMT) on Monday.

"The Israeli enemy carried out an air aggression from the direction of the Mediterranean, west of Latakia, targeting Aleppo International Airport," the source added.

"The aggression caused material damage to the airport runway and put it out of service."

There were no reports of casualties so far.

Back in May, the Tel Aviv regime staged a similar attack on the Aleppo airport, killing one Syrian soldier and wounding several other people.

It also struck the airport on two different occasions in March and put it out of commission for several days.

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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Terry Gou announces presidency bid, touts business acumen as key asset

ROC Central News Agency

08/28/2023 05:39 PM

Taipei, Aug. 28 (CNA) Billionaire Terry Gou () announced on Monday his intention to run for the presidency in 2024 as an independent candidate, noting that he is the only contender with decades of business management experience.

Gou, founder of the Taiwan-based manufacturing giant Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., made the announcement at a press conference weeks after he proposed an alliance among the opposition parties in a bid to unseat the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP).

Explaining why he has decided to run in the presidential race, the tycoon said he has watched Taiwan's political and economic situation gradually shift from prosperity to "the edge of a cliff" resulting from the DPP government's incompetence.

Despite recent polls placing Gou in fourth place were he to declare his candidacy, the businessman characterized himself as "a representative of the mainstream consensus," highlighting his ability to leverage his business acumen to guide the nation forward.

Among all the presidential candidates, "I am the only entrepreneur with the practical management skills. I am an entrepreneur with nearly five decades of practical experience -- who else is better suited to lead Taiwan's political sphere [than me]?" Gou said.

Highlighting his expertise in finance and economics, Gou said that under his leadership, he would guarantee an economic growth rate that is more than double the current rate, starting in the next fiscal year.

National security

Addressing national security, Gou described the state of affairs in the Taiwan Strait and the dynamics between the United States and China as "precarious."

He said "I will not allow Taiwan to become the next Ukraine," drawing parallels between the security environment facing Taiwan and the war-torn East European country.

Gou promised if elected president, he would bring 50 years of peace to the Taiwan Strait and lay a solid foundation of mutual trust between Taiwan and China.

Gou said he would not give in when asked what he would do as a potential national leader if the Chinese authorities exerted pressure given his position as a major shareholder in Hon Hai, adding that if sacrificing his personal wealth could prevent the Chinese Communist Party from attacking Taiwan, he would be willing to bear such a burden.

Gou's rivals in the race

In the presidential election on Jan. 13, 2024, Gou will face Vice President Lai Ching-te (), who chairs the DPP, New Taipei Mayor Hou Yu-ih () of the Kuomintang (KMT), and Taiwan People's Party (TPP) Chairman Ko Wen-je ().

Gou lost out when the KMT chose its presidential candidate earlier this year. At that time, rather than hold an open primary, the party opted to "recruit" Hou as its nominee based on polling data. Gou had expressed an interest in the position, but was not eligible based on party membership rules.

Gou had said he would support whoever the KMT nominated, but has since changed his mind and it is believed his candidacy could take support from Hou.

Analysis

While Gou said during the press conference that his candidacy is intended to facilitate opposition unity, You Ying-lung (), chairman of polling institute Taiwanese Public Opinion Foundation, told CNA that Gou's move self-evidently heightened the challenge of achieving opposition unity and appeared to be advantageous for Lai.

The biggest impact of Gou's candidacy will be on Ko, argued Shen Yu-chung (), a political science professor at Tunghai University.

Ko's appeal lies in being the third force, attracting those dissatisfied with the major parties, Shen told CNA on Monday.

Now the third force gains a new option, which could significantly challenge Ko, he said.

In addition, Shen said, Ko's support from younger voters could be heavily affected as Gou is adept at making enticing promises to the youth demographic, including fair housing policy, promoting youth entrepreneurship, and enhanced family support.

Gou's run as an independet

Having declared his intention to take part in the 2024 race as an independent, Gou now has to collect the signatures of at least 1.5 percent of the electorate in the last legislative election, which is about 290,000 signatures, within 45 days of his formal application to run as an independent candidate, according to the law.

Independent presidential candidates are required to file an official application to run and collect the required signatures from Sept. 13-17. Those signatures are then collected from Sept. 19 to Nov. 2 and the Central Election Commission (CEC) announces whether the candidates collected enough signatures by Nov. 14.

Presidential candidates register their candidacy for the presidential election with the CEC from Nov. 20-24.

(By Chung Yu-chen)

Enditem/AW

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Terry Gou's decision to run for president 'deeply regrettable': KMT

ROC Central News Agency

08/28/2023 02:17 PM

Taipei, Aug. 28 (CNA) An announcement Monday by business tycoon Terry Gou () of his intention to join the presidential race next January has been greeted by Taiwan's opposition Kuomintang (KMT) with some trepidation, even as it called him out for breaking his promise to the party.

In a statement released hours after Gou threw his hat into the ring as an independent, the KMT said it was "deeply regrettable" that he had reneged on his earlier promise to help its presidential candidate Hou Yu-ih () win the 2024 election.

Gou, founder of the Taiwan-based manufacturing giant Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., made that pledge earlier this year, when the KMT picked New Taipei Mayor Hou over him as its flag bearer in the presidential race, according to the statement.

The KMT, Taiwan's main opposition party, also said any of its members who publicly show support for Gou in his presidential bid will be subject to disciplinary measures.

However, the party said, it still hopes that Gou would return to the KMT fold one day and join the mainstream efforts to unseat the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP).

When the KMT on May 17 selected Hou to run for president, Guo, the party's other contender, said he would throw his weight behind Hou, but the tycoon later began holding campaign rallies on his own, while hinting at an independent bid for the presidency.

On Monday morning, Gou declared his intention to join the 2024 race as an independent, which means he will now be required to obtain the signatures of at least 1.5 percent of the electorate in the last legislative election -- around 290,000 signatures -- within 45 days of his formal application to run as an independent candidate, according to law.

If he succeeds in clearing that bar, Gou will come up against the KMT's Hou, Taiwan People's Party (TPP) Chairman Ko Wen-je (), and Vice President Lai Ching-te (), who is also chairman of the DPP, in the presidential election on Jan. 13, 2024.

On Monday, DPP spokesman Chang Chih-hao () told reporters that in a democratic country, every citizen has the right to run for the presidency, as long as they meet the legal requirements.

"The DPP fully respects Gou's decision to run," Chang said, adding that the Gou camp should however refrain from playing the "fear of war" card to divide Taiwan society.

Chang was referring to a statement made by Gou earlier in day, when he said he would bring 50 years of peace across the Taiwan Strait if he wins the presidency next year.

During his announcement of his presidential bid, Gou hinted that Taiwan was becoming the "next Ukraine" under the DPP administration, due to deteriorating relations with Beijing.

On Monday, the TPP also commented briefly on Gou's decision, saying that its candidate Ko was leading in the polls among the opposition contenders.

The TPP will continue to build on that momentum, while seeking close cooperation with the other opposition parties in the election campaign, TPP spokesman Lee Ting-li () said.

Wang Yeh-lih (), a professor in the Department of Political Science at National Taiwan University, had told CNA earlier that a Gou candidacy would affect all three party candidates.

Such a move, however, would deal a heavier blow to Ko and Hou than to Lai, as the former two are considered more China-friendly, while the later is seen as hawkish toward China, according to Wang.

The date for the registration of presidential candidates at the Central Election Commission is Nov. 20-24.

(By Joseph Yeh)

Enditem/pc

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Foxconn founder Terry Gou announces to run for Taiwan regional leader, 'making anti-DPP camp more divided'

Global Times

By Yang Sheng Published: Aug 28, 2023 09:19 PM

Taiwan billionaire and Foxconn founder Terry Gou Tai-ming announced on Monday that he will run in the 2024 elections for Taiwan's regional leader, making next year's vote a complicated four-way race. Analysts said that this is likely to further divide the island's opposition camp in favor of secessionist ruling party candidate Lai Ching-te.

According to the latest polls conducted in mid August by Taiwan media outlets and institutions, without Gou's participation, ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) candidate Lai, who is currently the deputy leader of the island, is now the front-runner with 37 to 42 percent, while Taiwan People's Party candidate Ko Wen-je ranks second with 25 to 28 percent, and Hou Yu-ih of the major opposition party Chinese Kuomintang (KMT) getting 20-22 percent.

According to Taiwan polls that include Gou, with Gou's participation, Lai's front-runner position is virtually unaffected while the opposition candidates are impacted significantly, as Ko gets only about 16-17 percent, KMT's Hou gets 15-16 percent, and Gou has only 12 percent.

Analysts said this doesn't mean the DPP is popular, as most polls show that Taiwan residents who want to end the DPP rule are in the majority, as the combined support of opposition candidates is more than Lai's, but the problem is that the opposition camp is becoming divided due to the power struggle between the two opposition parties, and now the independent candidate Gou is dividing the field further.

The three opposition candidates are yet to reach a consensus on forming an alliance to run in the elections. Even if they do reach agreement on running together, which is very unlikely as they all refuse to give in and serve as deputy candidate, Lai is very likely to win, and unfortunately, the will of the majority on the island to end the DPP rule might not be realized, Li Fei, a professor at the Taiwan Research Center at Xiamen University, told the Global Times on Monday.

"If Lai gets elected, cross-Taiwan Straits relations will be in danger, so the mainland is preparing for any possible scenario, including the worst one," Li noted. "But there are still a few months to go, and it would still be too early to say who can win eventually."

In an apparent response to Gou's announcement to run, the KMT said in a post on its Facebook account Monday, after his announcement without mentioning him, that "if we share similar values, then we can work together," but vowed that mainstream public opinion will not accept any act that "hurts comrades and favors adversaries."

Gou has been labeled by Taiwan media as a pro-mainland figure who has deep business relations in the mainland, and in order to preserve and resume cross-Straits cooperation that significantly benefit Taiwan, he also supports peace and opposes secessionism. However, experts said that his decision driven by political ambition is in fact helping the DPP authorities.

However, many Chinese mainland netizens and pro-reunification Taiwan residents have an interesting theory: If the DPP's Lai wins next year, this could speed up the reunification process, as the mainland will find it easy to completely abandon "the illusion of peaceful reunification" and make tough decisions to solve the Taiwan question immediately. Therefore, these people welcome Gou's act to run for the election, as they believe this will consolidate Lai's advantage.

Zheng Bo-yu, manager of the Vstartup Station of Taiwan, a company serving Taiwan youth seeking to study, work and launch startups on the mainland, said, "Many friends of mine in Taiwan who support cross-Straits cooperation and exchanges made a joke about the current election: Why don't we just vote for Lai and let the DPP win, so that the mainland will have an easier time making the decision to solve the Taiwan question once and for all, so that we don't need to be worried about the uncertain cross-Straits tension and US intervention anymore."

Li said the Chinese mainland has enough measures available to deter and counter secessionists and foreign interference forces, but the mainland is still making great efforts and showing great patience to seek peaceful reunification.

"But it's possible that, if Lai eventually wins, deeper and more reckless collusion between the DPP and the US will wipe out the possibility of peaceful reunification, and the mainland will be forced to take action," Li warned.

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Zelenskiy To Propose Legislation Equating Corruption With Treason During War

By RFE/RL's Ukrainian Service August 27, 2023

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy says corruption can be equated with treason and he will ask parliament to increase penalties for people found guilty of corruption during wartime.

"I have set a task for the legislation and the Ukrainian legislators will be offered my proposals to equate corruption with high treason in wartime," he said in a television interview shared on his Telegram channel on August 27.

"I think the parliament will get it in the next week and then the ball is in the parliament's court," he said, adding that he understands that it cannot work permanently, "but for wartime, I think it will help."

Those found guilty must face justice, but "not a firing squad," he said. "This is not Stalinism. If there is evidence, the person must be behind bars."

Zelenskiy said he did not know whether lawmakers would support the proposal, but he intends to go ahead with it anyway because Ukraine is developing a democratic society and needs systems meant to stop corruption.

Earlier this month Zelenskiy made a move against corruption with the dismissal of all the heads of Ukraine's regional military recruitment centers.

Zelenskiy said on August 11 that a review of the recruitment centers had revealed signs of professional abuse, ranging from illegal enrichment to transporting draft-eligible men across the border despite a wartime ban.

"This system should be run by people who know exactly what war is and why cynicism and bribery during war is treason," he said in a statement.

Ukraine ranks 116th out of 180 countries on Transparency International's 2022 Corruption Perceptions Index. Its ranking moved up just one notch from 2021.

Deputy Prime Minister Iryna Vereshchuk also commented on August 27 on the fight against corruption in Ukraine.

External and internal factors meant the state's survival is beginning to depend on Ukraine's ability to "really destroy the corrupt as a social group," she said on Telegram.

"We are fast approaching the point where it will be us or them."

With reporting by Reuters

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/ukraine-zelenskiy- corruption-treason-wartime/32566993.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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German Conservative Leader Backs Sending Cruise Missiles to Ukraine

Sputnik News

20230827

MOSCOW (Sputnik) - Friedrich Merz, leader of Germany's conservative Christian Democrats, said in an interview out Sunday that he was in favor of giving Ukraine the long-sought-after Taurus cruise missiles.

"We should deliver cruise missiles," he told German media.

The conservative, who heads the largest opposition party in parliament, stressed that the strike range of these missiles should be limited to make them a purely defensive weapon.

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz argued last week that he was not rushing to approve cruise missile deliveries to Ukraine for fear of dragging NATO into a war with Russia.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has been pressing Germany for Taurus missiles, which have a range of 500 kilometers (311 miles) and can strike deep into the Russian territory.

A Sputnik

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Volodymyr Zelenskyy: The United States and the EU should share the risks of possible elections in Ukraine during the war

President of Ukraine

27 August 2023 - 19:58

Elections in Ukraine under martial law are possible only if the right to vote is ensured for all citizens, including military personnel and forced migrants abroad; funding and the presence of foreign observers at polling stations on the frontline must also be ensured. This was stated by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in an interview with journalist Natalia Moseychuk.

"We need every vote. We won't be able to say for ourselves that this was a very democratic election. We need a legitimate choice. We need this choice to be made by society. So that it does not divide our people. We need the military to be able to vote. They are defending this democracy today, and not giving them this opportunity because of the war is unfair. I was against the elections only because of this issue," the Head of State said, commenting on the possibility of organizing and holding elections under martial law.

The President also noted that the second aspect of the possible holding of elections during the war is the issue of the lack of funding. Volodymyr Zelenskyy said that he had discussed this topic with American Republican politician Lindsey Graham.

"I told him: if the United States and Europe give us financial support... I'm sorry, I will not hold elections on credit, I will not take money from weapons and give it to elections either. But if you give me this financial support, if the parliamentarians realize that we need to do this, then let's quickly change the legislation and, most importantly, let's take risks together," Volodymyr Zelenskyy said.

The Head of State also paid special attention to the organization of the work of polling stations and the presence of observers, including foreign ones.

"Observers should be in the trenches. I told him: observers must be sent to the frontline so that the elections are legitimate for us and for the whole world. And this is absolutely fair," Volodymyr Zelenskyy said.

He reminded that a significant number of Ukrainians are now abroad, particularly in the EU, and that ensuring their expression of will also requires significant resources and polling stations, which Ukraine does not have in such numbers.

"We need help from Europe here, because Ukrainians today are mostly in the European Union. Polling stations must be opened there so that people can come. 7 million people have to vote. We do not have such infrastructural capacities - we need to provide appropriate opportunities there," the President said.

The Head of State emphasizes that he is not holding on to power and would like to hold elections. However, the rights of all voters must be ensured.

"How will the military be able to vote? Show me the infrastructure. No one has shown it yet. How will people abroad be able to vote? No one has shown me. There is a way out. I am ready for it. I am talking about this publicly now, I told him. I have no secrets," the President added.





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Negotiations launched for Canada - Ukraine bilateral security commitments

Global Affairs Canada

Readout

August 28, 2023 - Ottawa, Ontario - Global Affairs Canada

Last Friday, Government of Canada officials met with their Ukrainian counterparts to discuss long-term security commitments between our two countries. During the meeting, Canadian officials reiterated Canada's commitment to using all tools at our disposal to support Ukraine as it defends its sovereignty and territorial integrity.

These negotiations will build on existing Canadian and Ukrainian efforts on a range of priorities and will enhance and guide bilateral cooperation for years to come. Discussions will focus on pairing Canadian capabilities with Ukrainian needs, notably ensuring a sustainable force to defend Ukraine from Russian aggression now and in the future and strengthening Ukraine's economic stability and resilience. In addition, our two countries will discuss further technical and financial support for Ukraine's immediate needs as well as to implement the good governance necessary to advance Ukraine's Euro-Atlantic aspirations, such as the continued implementation of law enforcement, judiciary, anti-corruption, corporate governance, economic, security sector, and state management reforms.

Canada and its Allies endorsed the G7 Joint Declaration of Support to Ukraine on the margins of the NATO Summit in July, and Canada is the third G7 member to subsequently launch bilateral negotiations with Ukraine under the framework of that G7 Joint Declaration. Canada, along with its partners and Allies have committed to standing united with Ukraine and being unwavering in their support for the Ukrainian people as they fight Russian aggression, for as long as it takes.

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Norway will lead defence materiel cooperation in Ukraine

Government of Norway

Press release | Date: 28/08/2023

Norway entered into an agreement with Ukraine to support the development of a Ukrainian defence material organisation in March 2023. Norway will now also lead the work at a strategic level in NATO, which coordinates the efforts to develop the defence material work between allied nations and Ukraine. The sector will be developed in the direction of western standards and working methods.

NATO has implemented a review of what the alliance can contribute within defence procurement in Ukraine. The review will be completed during the year and it will formulate concrete measures financed by one of NATO's support funds. The work Norway will coordinate within NATO, and the bilateral initiative Norway has implemented with the Ukrainian defence material organization will be coordinated.

The agreement Norway entered into with Ukraine in March has proved interesting also for others, and now Great Britain and Sweden have joined this work.

- There have been major challenges with corruption within defence procurement in Ukraine. Ever since NATO asked Norway for help in 2014, we have supported Ukraine by building integrity into laws, rules and procedures for good defence procurement, says Minister of Defence BjArn Arild Gram.





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Washington Post: US set to back Ukraine war into next year and beyond

Iran Press TV

Monday, 28 August 2023 8:43 AM

Most senior US officials have decided to continue to extend Washington's support to the Kiev government to carry on with the proxy war against Russia despite Ukraine's faltering counteroffensive, The Washington Post reports.

According to the paper, they are not considering diplomacy and are expected to back Ukraine against Russia into next year and beyond by sending Kiev more weapons and munitions.

"I heard this same sentiment across all levels of the US government in recent days. The summer has been frustrating and, in some ways, disappointing for Ukraine and its Western backers. But rather than look for a quick diplomatic exit ramp, most senior US officials appear more convinced than ever of the need to stand fast with Kyiv. The United States, in their view, cannot be seen to abandon its ally," Washington Post columnist David Ignatius wrote.

Ignatius said while the US thinks Ukraine could still do some damage to Russian forces it doesn't expect a "decisive blow."

"US officials believe strategic patience remains the best weapon against Russian President Vladimir Putin.

"That means a continuation of this grueling war into 2024 and beyond and a continuation of the heavy casualties and emotional trauma for both sides," Ignatius said.

While the US has already sent widely-banned cluster munitions to Ukraine to help in its counteroffensive against Russia, Ignatius said the US may send more types of cluster munitions, which can kill and maim civilians for decades after the war.

"There's growing backing in Washington for providing rocket-launched cluster munitions, for example, which could strike deeper than the artillery-fired versions the United States began supplying last month," Ignatius wrote.

The columnist said the US is expecting Ukraine to increase drone attacks on Russian territory

Since Russia launched its special military operation in Ukraine in February 2022 to stop NATO's eastward expansion, the US-led Western countries have supplied Kiev with tens of billions of dollars worth of weapons.

Before the Ukrainian counteroffensive, launched in early June with the core objective of severing Russia's land bridge to Crimea, Kiev was provided with an extra-huge supply of arms and munitions in an attempt to further help Ukrainian forces make headway against the Russian troops.

The ex-Soviet republic is now waiting to receive US-made F-16 warplanes as Washington is still pressing Kiev to push the Ukrainian forces harder and concentrate the troops to make a push toward the Sea of Azov in the south.

Russia has repeatedly called on the West to refrain from sending weapons to Kiev, warning that it would only exacerbate the situation.

In the meantime, there have been many reports that US officials do not believe the Ukrainian forces have any chance of victory against the superior Russian army.

One senior US senator went as far as comparing Kiev forces to children in a juniors' team competing against Moscow's college team adults.

On the other hand, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has rejected the idea of implementing a ceasefire to shift from fighting to finding a diplomatic solution to the Ukraine-Russia conflict.

Analysts say the war in Ukraine provides the pretext for the officials of Western countries to continue sending weapons to Ukraine and that the winner of the war is the US military-industrial complex and other arms manufacturers.

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Ukraine Says Extension Of Grain Import Ban By Five EU Countries Violates 'Solidarity'

By RFE/RL's Ukrainian Service August 28, 2023

Restrictions on the import of Ukrainian grain imposed by five EU countries should not be extended, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba said on August 28 during a visit to Prague.

Kuleba said Ukraine firmly opposed any extension of the import ban on wheat, maize, rapeseed, and sunflower seed past its current September 15 expiration because it violates the rules of the common market and the association agreement between Ukraine and the EU.

"We are absolutely adamantly against it because this move will violate the rules of the common market," Kuleba told reporters at a joint briefing with Czech Foreign Minister Jan Lipavsky.

"This rule will violate the Ukraine-EU Association Agreement, but most importantly this move will go against the principle of solidarity that the European Union is based on," he said.

The EU earlier this year set import restrictions on Ukrainian wheat, maize, rapeseed, and sunflower seed to ease the excess supply in Bulgaria, Hungary, Poland, Romania, and Slovakia after those countries complained that cheaper Ukrainian grain was making domestic production unprofitable.

The EU restrictions had an initial expiration of June 5 but were subsequently extended until September 15. The five EU countries last month signed a joint declaration saying they wanted the import ban to last through the end of 2023 but adding that food can move through their lands to other parts of the world.

While Ukraine is very grateful to the five countries for the military and humanitarian assistance they have provided since Russia's full-scale invasion in February 2022, Kuleba said Ukraine will have no choice but to fiercely defend its rights and the rights of its farmers if the ban is extended.

Kuleba also noted that Ukraine was ready to work with the five countries "to find a solution."

Polish Agriculture Minister Robert Telus confirmed earlier that Poland and four other countries were considering extending the ban on the import of Ukrainian grain until the end of this year.

Telus added that he and his colleagues from Slovakia, Hungary, Bulgaria, and Romania want to add new goods to the list of prohibited imports -- for example, Ukrainian raspberries in the case of Poland.

The Ukrainian Foreign Ministry on August 26 commented on the possible extension of the ban.

"We consider it categorically unacceptable to continue trade restrictions on the import of agricultural products of Ukraine after the ban of the European Commission expires on September 15," the press service of the Foreign Ministry said.

The Foreign Ministry also expressed a "complete misunderstanding" over the intention to expand the list of goods prohibited for import.

With reporting by AFP

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/ukraine-opposes-eu- grain-import-ban/32568458.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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Dead, Wounded In Russian Attack On Poltava As Kyiv Confirms Liberation Of Robotyne

By RFE/RL's Ukrainian Service August 28, 2023

Russia struck Ukraine's eastern region of Poltava overnight, killing three people, Ukrainian authorities reported on August 28, as Kyiv confirmed the liberation of the southeastern village of Robotyne and said it was making further advances in the Zaporizhzhya region.

Interior Minister Ihor Klymenko said the three people were killed at an industrial plant in central Poltava region. Five were wounded and another person was unaccounted for, he said.

Two other people were killed on August 28 by shelling in other parts of Ukraine. Oleksandr Prokudin, governor of southern Kherson region, said a 63-year-old woman had been killed in mid-morning shelling of the village of Sadove. Russian shelling later in the day killed at least one person in Toretsk in the Donetsk region, prosecutors said.

Deputy Defense Minister Hanna Malyar in a post on Telegram confirmed that Robotyne, which sits along an important road leading from the town of Orikhiv to Tokmak on the way to the strategic southern city of Melitopol, had been liberated.

The Ukrainian Army last week announced that it had raised the national flag in Robotyne and was evacuating civilians, as mopping-up operations were still under way.

"The defense forces of Ukraine were successful in the southeastern settlement of Robotyne," Malyar wrote. "Our forces are advancing southeast of Robotyne and south of Mala Tokmachka in the Zaporizhzhya region."

Ukrainian forces continue their offensive operation in the Melitopol direction, Ukraine's General Staff said in its evening summary on August 28.

In addition, the Ukrainian military said it made eight air strikes on personnel concentration areas, including one on a Russian command post and three on antiaircraft missile complexes.

Melitopol, in the Zaporizhzhya region, is a vital transit hub for Russian forces and a key link in its so-called "land bridge" between Russian-occupied Crimea and the parts of eastern Ukraine occupied by Russia.

Ukraine's forces fought 26 combat clashes on August 28, the General Staff said in its summary, which also reported that Russian forces carried out eight missile strikes, 30 other air strikes, and 19 attacks from rocket-salvo systems on positions of Ukrainian troops and populated areas.

In Russia, authorities said that drones were shot down in one of the districts of Moscow and in the western Bryansk region overnight on August 28.

Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin said a drone was destroyed in the Lyubertsy district of the capital, and there were no damages or casualties.

Two Moscow airports, Domodedovo and Vnukovo, suspended operations for about an hour, Sobyanin added. The Russian Defense Ministry said air-defense forces shot down two drones over the Bryansk region at night. No damage or casualties were reported.

One day after saying he expected "a powerful September for Ukraine," Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said the next meeting of the command staff had two tasks.

"The first is a report on preparations for the winter. Various aspects, including security. Second: a program of preparation for the use of new combat aircraft," he said on X, the social media platform formerly known as Twitter.

Zelenskiy said on August 27 that he expected "new defense packages for Ukrainian soldiers" in the coming weeks.

"Artillery, armored vehicles, air-defense systems and missiles, demining equipment," he wrote. "Our partners have been informed about our needs. We are expecting decisions."

"A united world is stronger than any aggressor," he concluded. "In September, there will be more unity."

Separately, Defense Minister Oleksiy Reznikov said any suggestion of differences with Washington over Ukraine's military strategy were "mistaken and invented."

He told a news conference that Ukrainian Commander in Chief Valeriy Zaluzhniy was meeting "systematically" with senior officials from countries supplying Ukraine with weaponry.

"Everything is going according to the plan, which was discussed with our partners in advance when our brigades were being formed, when they were equipped," Reznikov said.

With reporting by Reuters and AFP

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/ukraine-war-russia- poltava-attacks-dead-wounded/32567567.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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Wider Europe Briefing: A New EU Push For More Military Aid To Ukraine

By Rikard Jozwiak August 28, 2023

Brief #1: Brussels Considers More Military Assistance To Ukraine Amid Fears Of Niger Coup Fallout

What You Need To Know: On August 29-31, first the EU's defense ministers and then the bloc's foreign ministers will meet in the Spanish city of Toledo for informal talks.

These types of gatherings -- referred to in EU parlance as "Gymnich" after a German castle where the first such meeting took place -- happen twice a year, typically in January and after the summer break at the end of August.

They aren't formal council meetings, like the monthly EU foreign affairs councils in Brussels where policy decisions are taken. Rather, they are supposed to be more like fireside chats among ministers, who often rock up without their customary suits and ties so they can kick back to discuss the more long-term goals and strategies of the European Union. These informal meetings are often considered the start of the fall political season and a warm-up ahead of the United Nations General Assembly in New York in early September.

Two items will dominate the agenda in Toledo: how to further help Ukraine militarily and the Niger coup and its consequences on the bloc.

Deep Background: Regarding Ukraine, much of the discussion will center on increasing EU arms deliveries to sustain Kyiv's war effort. There have already been seven tranches of EU military aid through the European Peace Facility (EPF), an off-EU budget funding mechanism where member states contribute according to their gross national income. So far, those contributions have amounted to 5.6 billion euros ($6.1 billion). An eighth tranche -- another 500 million euros ($540 million) -- is waiting to be approved, and it's possible it could get a sign-off in Toledo.

For that to happen, though, Hungary would need to lift its veto that has been in place since early summer. The Hungarian red light stems from an unrelated dispute around a blacklist produced by Ukraine's National Agency on Corruption Prevention. On that list, the Hungarian bank, OTP, is labeled an "international sponsor of war" as it continues to do business in Russia, a designation that has angered both the bank and the Hungarian government. Typically, Budapest has made its support for the next chunk of EU cash conditional on Ukraine delisting the bank.

There will also be more talks in Toledo on the possibility of a longer-term EU fund for military assistance to Ukraine. The EU's diplomatic corps, the European External Action Service (EEAS), circulated a discussion paper to EU capitals before the August summer break about the need to provide Kyiv with 5 billion euros a year for the next four years. That plan could face some hurdles, though. Hungary has already questioned the wisdom of spending more on military aid to Ukraine. And Germany -- the bloc's single largest financial contributor -- has raised issues, such as the need to discuss the military funding within broader negotiations over the EU's budget.

Drilling Down

The EEAS discussion paper, seen by RFE/RL, and titled A Proposal For A Dedicated Ukraine Envelope Under The European Peace Facility (Ukraine Defense Fund) notes that European Union leaders have already confirmed "the EU's readiness to provide sustainable military support to Ukraine for as long as it takes."

It also states that "having a dedicated envelope for Ukraine under the EPF would allow for continued political unity and financial solidarity," adding that it "would ensure the necessary predictability required in financial planning by member states at [a] national level."

The EEAS text also explains the need for supporting Kyiv militarily to the tune of 5 billion euros annually, noting that while the EU will provide an estimated 4 billion euros in 2023, more is needed. According to the paper, that is because there will be "a shift in focus from destocking to procurement, the delivery of more sophisticated military equipment, as well as evolving needs by the EU military training mission for Ukraine, EUMAM."

EUMAM, which was set up in the fall of 2022 and largely operates from Poland, has a budget of approximately 100 million euros a year. It has so far trained 25,000 troops, with plans to increase that number, double its budget, and possibly even allow for some training inside Ukraine if conditions allow.

Separately but very much related to the issue of military aid, the EEAS also issued another discussion paper on what other security guarantees the bloc can offer. This comes as Ukraine is currently negotiating bilateral security arrangements with the Group of Seven (G7) leading industrialized nations and other Western allies.

This paper, also seen by RFE/RL, states that "Ukraine will continue to need [the] EU's long-term commitment and support to secure its free and democratic European future, notably in a scenario where Russia is unlikely to abandon its goal to subjugate Ukraine and Ukraine cannot stop defending itself. Ukraine's EU membership would be in itself a security commitment."

It also outlines 11 other suggestions of security support for Ukraine, such as the maintenance and repair of donated equipment, enhanced cooperation between the European and Ukrainian defense industries, continuous sharing of intelligence, more demining support, and assistance in bolstering Ukraine's cybersecurity and tools to fight against disinformation.

Not all the focus in Toledo will be on Ukraine. The recent military coup in Niger is likely to take up a significant amount of the ministers' conversation. The issue is complicated as the Economic Community of West African States, which is a partner of the EU, has indicated that it is pondering a military intervention in Niger, something it has never done before. There are, however, divisions among the various West African states. What is clear from conversations with EU officials is that they fear a widening of the conflict and, as a result, a new wave of refugees coming to Europe.

The issue of the Russian mercenary group Wagner's presence in Niger will also be debated by EU foreign ministers. It's not clear how the death of its leader Yevgeny Prigozhin in an August 23 plane crash will affect the group; the current EU line is that there is no conclusive evidence that Wagner fighters are active in Niger. One European diplomat who wasn't authorized to speak on the record told me that images of the local population waving Russian flags indicated that "Moscow, one way or another, is very present there."

Brief #2: A Meeting In Athens Gives Some Clues About The Future Of EU Enlargement

What You Need To Know: Last week, on August 21-22, there was a rather unusual meeting in Athens, which brought together both the European Council President Charles Michel and the European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, along with a number of leaders from countries from the Western Balkans and Eastern Europe who are hoping to join the EU.

Also invited to the Greek capital were leaders from countries in the region that are already members of the EU: Bulgaria, Croatia, and Romania. The meeting provided some clues as to how the enlargement of the bloc might shape up in the coming years, as well as revealing the fissures that could scupper the whole thing.

This gathering has been a regular event for several years now, usually involving the six EU candidates and potential candidate countries from the Western Balkans: Albania, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia, and Serbia.

The meeting is a chance for Greece to demonstrate leadership in its neighborhood, where it already plays a critical political and diplomatic role. This year's meeting also marked the 20th anniversary of the historic decision in Thessaloniki, Greece's second city, which for the first time proclaimed that all of the states of the Western Balkans would one day join the EU.

Deep Background: This year, there were also some new attendees: Moldova and Ukraine. That slightly shifted the focus from the usual regional cooperation to discussions about EU enlargement, as both Kyiv and Chisinau are newly minted EU candidate countries and hope to start accession talks by the end of the year. Yet the addition to the group also raised questions, most notably: Why weren't the other EU hopefuls, Turkey and Georgia, also in attendance?

EU diplomats I spoke to on the condition of anonymity as they weren't authorized to speak on the record were quick to point out that Greece extended the invitation to Moldova and Ukraine but also acknowledged that this arrangement was "debatable" and "ad hoc" and that this format wasn't intended to be permanent.

When asked why Turkey and Georgia weren't present, one diplomat explained: "The countries invited appear to be the most advanced on their path [toward EU membership]."

This assertion may seem accurate at first. Georgia is, after all, one step behind Moldova and Ukraine, as it isn't yet an EU candidate country. And Turkey's EU accession talks have been frozen for years due to disagreements between Ankara and the EU on a number of issues.

Technically, however, Turkey remains further advanced along the path to joining the EU than most other prospective members, having started accession talks back in 2006, which at least nominally places it in the same front-runner category as Montenegro and Serbia.

It's also worth noting that Kosovo, invited for the Athens powwow, is not even recognized as an independent state by the EU.

Drilling Down

Something else could be at play here. One of the political themes likely to dominate EU discussions this fall will be "absorption capacity": how the EU could bear the burden and how it could function if it underwent further enlargement.

France and Germany have established a joint working group on this issue, which will present its initial thoughts to other member states in September. When the European Political Community, which brings together all European countries apart from Belarus and Russia, convenes in the Spanish city of Granada in early October, "absorption capacity" will certainly be discussed. If there are any political and institutional decisions to be made on this issue, that could happen at the EU summit in Brussels in December.

When EU officials discuss "absorption capacity," they often contemplate how an "EU of 35" would function -- adding eight new states to the existing 27. The issue here is that there are in fact 10 countries -- not just eight -- seeking to join the bloc: the six Western Balkan states, Georgia, Moldova, Turkey, and Ukraine. So, which two are not being considered? While diplomats I speak to insist that the term "EU of 35" isn't linked to specific countries, the absences from the Athens meeting might be an indication to the contrary.

According to diplomats involved that I spoke to on background, the meeting was deemed a success, as they said it brought Western Balkan countries closer to their Ukrainian and Moldovan counterparts. EU officials I've spoken to previously have said there are lingering fears among the six Western Balkan nations that Kyiv and Chisinau might "jump the queue" and join the EU ahead of them.

The summit also resulted in a joint declaration , with all participants pledging to support Ukraine's territorial integrity. Serbian President Alexander Vucic did later boast that he had managed to remove references to Russia sanctions in the document, but several Brussels insiders I spoke to on the condition of anonymity said that the draft texts they had seen never contained any language about sanctions. Vucic was most likely just playing to his domestic audience, many of whom have positive political views of Russia.

, with all participants pledging to support Ukraine's territorial integrity. Serbian President Alexander Vucic did later boast that he had managed to remove references to Russia sanctions in the document, but several Brussels insiders I spoke to on the condition of anonymity said that the draft texts they had seen never contained any language about sanctions. Vucic was most likely just playing to his domestic audience, many of whom have positive political views of Russia. More significantly, though, was the first face-to-face meeting between Vucic -- who has so far refused to align with EU sanctions on the Kremlin -- and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy. While Belgrade won't be exporting arms to Ukraine any time soon, there were pledges of continued humanitarian and medical assistance to the war-torn country.

The main news story from the Athens meeting was that Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama wasn't invited. The reason for this was the arrest of Fredi Beleri, a man running for mayor in the southern Albanian town of Himare under the banner of a Greek minority party aligned with an opposition coalition. Beleri was arrested in mid-May on suspicion of vote-buying. Despite winning the mayoral election, he remains in custody, triggering loud protests from Greece and counteraccusations from Tirana of political meddling.

There's now a real possibility that Greece will block Albania from officially opening EU accession chapters later this year, showing once again how beholden the bloc's enlargement process is to the whims of national or even local politics.

Looking Ahead

It is not only the EU foreign and defense ministers that will discuss how to better help Ukraine. The European Parliament also starts its work this week, and its foreign affairs committee will meet on August 30 in Brussels to discuss how to improve the bloc's military assistance to Kyiv. Expect the issue to come up again when all 705 members of the European Parliament meet for its first plenary session later in September.

Otherwise, Brussels is still in its summer slumber and not too much is expected from its institutions this week.

There is, however, plenty of activity on the think-tank conference circuit.

A number of European officials and politicians will head to the Tyrolean town of Alpbach on August 27-30 for the European Forum Alpbach.

Then there is the annual strategic forum run by the Slovenian Foreign Ministry and the Center for European Perspective on August 28-29 in the picturesque Slovenian resort town of Bled.

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/wider-europe-briefing- jozwiak-eu-ukraine-weapons-russia/32566984.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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Statement by Russian Defence Ministry

28.08.2023

On 28 August at around 04:30 Moscow time, air defence systems foiled another attempt by the Kiev regime to carry out a terrorist attack by fixed-wing unmanned aerial vehicles on the territory of the Russian Federation.

The UAVs were destroyed by air defence systems over the territory of Lyubertsy district (Moscow region).

Department for Media Affairs and Information

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Russian Air Defense Shoots Down Ukrainian Drone Over Belgorod Region

Sputnik News

20230828

MOSCOW (Sputnik) - The Russian air defense system destroyed a Ukrainian aircraft-type drone over Russia's Belgorod Region, the Russian Defense Ministry said on Tuesday.

"On August 28, at about 23:00 Moscow time [20:00 GMT], another attempt by the Kiev regime to carry out a terrorist attack on objects in the Russian Federation using an aircraft-type drone was thwarted," the ministry said.

"The unmanned aerial vehicle was destroyed by air defense forces on duty over the territory of the Belgorod Region."

The foiled attack comes on the heels of multiple thwarted efforts by the Ukrainian regime. Earlier this month, a similar operation was struck down by Russian forces above the Shebekinsky District.

Since hostilities kicked off between Ukraine and Russia, the Kiev regime has continued to conduct multiple strikes near civilian populations.

A Sputnik

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Pentagon Says US Has Given Ukraine More Than 3.1Mln Artillery, Rocket Rounds

Sputnik News

20230828

WASHINGTON (Sputnik) - The United States has provided Ukraine more than 3.1 million rounds of artillery, rockets and other long-range munitions, Deputy US Defense Secretary Kathleen Hicks said on Monday.

"In the 18 months since then, we've sent Ukraine over 3.1 million rockets, missiles, mortars and artillery rounds - and that's only four of the categories of munitions," Hicks said during remarks at a National Defense Industrial Association conference.

The US has also cooperated with the private sector to help Ukraine access commercial technologies that aid them on the battlefield, Hicks said.

The US has provided more than $43 billion in total military assistance, Hicks added.

A Sputnik

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Ukraine Loses Over 185 Soldiers in Donetsk Direction in Past Day

Sputnik News

20230828

MOSCOW (Sputnik) - Kiev has lost more than 185 troops in the Donetsk direction over the past 24 hours, the Russian Defense Ministry said on Monday.

During the past day, the Russian armed forces repelled two attacks in the Donetsk direction, seven attacks in the Zaporozhye direction, two in the South Donetsk direction, and two in the Kupyansk direction.

"Enemy losses in the Donetsk direction amounted to more than 185 Ukrainian troops, three armored combat vehicles, two vehicles, a Polish-made Krab self-propelled artillery mount, as well as a Grad Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS) combat vehicle," the ministry stated.

Ukraine also lost up to 160 servicemen in the Zaporozhye direction and up to 100 soldiers in the South Donetsk direction, the ministry added.

Moreover, Russian air defense systems have intercepted three Joint Direct Attack Munition (JDAM) guided bombs, 27 drones and one High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) shell over the given period, the ministry reported.

Krasny Liman Direction

Furthermore, Russian troops repelled two attacks of Ukrainian forces in the Krasny Liman area, with the Kiev regime losing up to 60 servicemen and six pieces of equipment, the ministry noted.

"In the Krasny Liman direction, two attacks by units of the 12th Special Forces Brigade and the 42nd Mechanized Brigade of the Ukrainian Armed Forces near the settlement of Kuzmino of the Lugansk People's Republic were repelled by coordinated actions of units of the Tsentr Battlegroup, strikes by aviation, artillery fire and heavy flame-throwing systems. The enemy's losses in the Krasny Liman direction were up to 60 Ukrainian servicemen, two armoured combat vehicles, two pickup trucks, a Gvozdika self-propelled artillery unit and a D-30 howitzer," the ministry stated.

Kherson Direction

Russian units destroyed up to 35 Ukrainian servicemen, three vehicles, a US-made M109 Paladin self-propelled artillery unit and two D-30 howitzers in the Kherson direction over the past 24 hours," according to the ministry.

"Up to 35 Ukrainian servicemen, three vehicles, a US-made M109 Paladin self-propelled artillery unit, as well as two D-30 howitzers were destroyed in the Kherson direction as a result of strikes overnight," the ministry emphasized.

Kupyansk Direction

The Kupyansk direction also saw losses among Ukrainian troops: Russian soldiers of the Zapad Battlegroup drove two attacks of the Kiev regime off, destroying up to 30 enemy servicemen and six pieces of equipment, the ministry reported.

"In the Kupyansk direction, units of the Zapad Battlegroup of troops in the course of active actions supported by aviation and artillery fire repelled two enemy attacks near the settlements of Sinkovka (Kharkov region) and Novoselovkoye (Lugansk People's Republic). Up to 30 Ukrainian servicemen, two armored combat vehicles, three vehicles and a D-20 howitzer were destroyed," the ministry pointed out.

A Sputnik

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Passage of Ship Along 'Grain Corridor' Unrelated to Talks With Russia - Kremlin

Sputnik News

20230828

MOSCOW (Sputnik) - The passage of the second ship along the 'grain corridor' is unrelated to talks with Russia on the resumption of the Black Sea Grain Initiative, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Monday.

Ukrainian media has reported that the second ship which was docked in Odessa since February 2022 left Ukraine and is on the way to Bulgaria.

"No, this has nothing to do with the prospects for resuming the grain deal. The prospects for the resumption of the grain deal directly depend on the substantive fulfillment ... of those promises and those obligations that were made towards the Russian side. This means the implementation of the deal in its Russian part, this is a completely different substance, and here our military department, of course, carries out the necessary monitoring [of the movement of ships]," Peskov told reporters.

In July 2022, Russia, Ukraine, Turkiye, and the United Nations reached an agreement that established a humanitarian corridor for vessels to export food and fertilizers. However, while Moscow has been performing its part of the deal, obligations to lift sanctions on Russian ships engaged in grain and fertilizer exports were not fulfilled.

A Sputnik

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Russia Hits Ukraine's Aviation Weapons, Ammunition Depot

Sputnik News

20230828

MOSCOW (Sputnik) - Russian ships with cruise missiles attacked a depot of aviation weapons and ammunition of the Ukrainian armed forces, the target was destroyed, the Russian Defense Ministry stated on Monday.

"Tonight [on Sunday night], the naval forces carried out a group strike with sea-based long-range high-precision weapons on a depot of aviation weapons and ammunition of the Ukrainian armed forces. The goal of the strike was achieved. The object was hit," the ministry said.

The counteroffensive attempt launched by the Kiev regime in early June has turned out to be less than unsuccessful, encouraging the Western partners to doubt the abilities of the Ukrainian forces. Having donated a considerable amount of military equipment to Zelensky's troops, the NATO partners have been watching it burn from Russian missiles, yet unwilling to stop the supply.

Not only have Russian forces been driving all Ukrainian attacks off but they have even advanced in several areas, liberating numerous settlements in the process.

A Sputnik

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Russia's Air Defense Destroys 2 Ukrainian Drones Over Bryansk Region - MoD

Sputnik News

20230828

MOSCOW (Sputnik) - Two Ukrainian drones were shot down by the air defense systems over the Bryansk Region on Monday night, the Russian Defense Ministry said on Monday.

"Tonight, another attempt by the Kiev regime to carry out a terrorist attack using aircraft-type unmanned aerial vehicles on objects in the Russian Federation was thwarted. Two UAVs were destroyed by air defense forces on duty over the territory of the Bryansk region," the ministry said.

On Sunday, Ukrainian drones were shot down over the Bryansk and Kursk regions. That attempted attack was preceded by an attack on Friday that involved 42 drones, nine of which were brought down using electronic jamming technology and 33 were taken out by Russian air defenses.

Kiev has consistently used drones during Russia's special military operation, including in civilian areas. Most of the attempted terrorist attacks on civilian populations by Ukraine forces have been thwarted by Russian air defenses.

A Sputnik

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Our defense industry will yield better results - address by the President of Ukraine

President of Ukraine

28 August 2023 - 21:31

Good health to you, fellow Ukrainians!

Today was a long and meaningful day of discussions and meetings. International events, our communication, the Ukrainian agenda.

A brief report.

The key thing, of course, is the Staff. It concerned what we're doing now and what we need to be prepared for. First of all, the frontline. First of all, the Kupyansk direction, the key spots in Donetsk region - Bakhmut, Avdiivka, Maryinka, and the southern directions, in particular, Orikhiv. Reports by Generals Zaluzhny, Syrskyi, and Tarnavskyi.

A report by the Chief of the Main Intelligence Directorate on the plans of the occupiers. We will respond to their intentions. We will. And in a way they do not expect.

There were several reports from government officials and the military on reinforcing our border regions, and the issue of finances for this has been resolved.

There was a separate meeting on our Ukrainian arms production. The Ministry of Strategic Industries, Ukroboronprom, and heads of domestic production facilities. Artillery made in Ukraine. Shells made in Ukraine. Drones, missiles, armored vehicles. We are maximizing production capacity. Ukraine can do it. Funding is available. Our defense industry will yield better results.

We have two tasks for the next meeting of the Staff. The first is a report on preparations for the winter. Various aspects, including security. Second: a program of preparation for the use of new combat aircraft. Politically, everything has already been done. Agreements have been reached. The key thing now is to prepare the infrastructure efficiently and quickly. This is already a military task.

And one more thing. There was a report by law enforcers on the inspection of the military medical commissions across the country. We are bringing this issue for consideration by the National Security and Defense Council. We will present the report and decision to the public.

I thank everyone who works for Ukraine! Glory to each of our warriors!

Glory to Ukraine!

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The Yermak-McFaul International Working Group has developed recommendations to tighten control over foreign-made components used by Russia in its UAVs

President of Ukraine

28 August 2023 - 10:48

The International Working Group on Sanctions Against Russia, co-chaired by Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine Andriy Yermak and Director of the Freeman-Spogli Institute for International Studies (FSI) Ambassador Michael McFaul, has examined 174 foreign components removed from three UAV models used by Russian troops on the battlefield in Ukraine.

In particular, the Russian army regularly uses three main models of drones: Shahed-136/131, Lancet, and Orlan-10. At the same time, Russia still relies heavily on foreign-made components, including microelectronics, in the production of UAVs.

According to a study by the International Working Group, China is the main supplier of critical components for Russian drones, accounting for 67% of shipments, with 17% of them going through Hong Kong. TArkiye and the United Arab Emirates account for 5% and 2% of components, respectively. Components made in Japan, the Republic of Korea, Switzerland, and other countries, including processors, chips, transistors, and other vital components, were also found in the drones.

At the same time, according to the report of the International Working Group, many details can be obtained through publicly available platforms, which complicates regulatory oversight.

In view of this, the group's experts called on manufacturers to do more to prevent Russia from accessing their products bypassing economic sanctions.

"Russia is extremely active in using drones for massive attacks on infrastructure, civilian and military targets in Ukraine, so it is very disturbing to see that important components for the production of hostile UAVs come from different countries, including Ukraine's allies. This issue requires our joint immediate response. We have to take comprehensive measures to prevent the aggressor from using critical components to continue hostilities on Ukrainian soil," emphasized Andriy Yermak.

In particular, it is proposed to align sanctions lists between partner countries, unify lists of dual-use goods based on the Harmonized System and expand the categories of goods subject to sanctions based on the Harmonized System.

Companies should also develop clearer instructions on how to comply with the law. It is recommended to strengthen cooperation between producers and authorities in order to improve compliance with sanctions and implement effective restrictive measures. In addition, governments should investigate well-known companies that do not comply with the sanctions policy.

According to experts, more effective use of existing institutions and mechanisms is needed. In particular, the use of anti-money laundering (AML) mechanisms can strengthen export control measures, as sanctions circumvention often has similarities with money laundering. The application of AML techniques to export controls is valuable for identifying structures in third countries that are important for the production and export of military products to Russia, especially if the production takes place outside the sanctions coalition.

"The report of the Yermak-McFaul Working Group is a call to action to strengthen international cooperation. As we navigate this complex landscape, information sharing and cooperation among coalition nations is of paramount importance. By working together, we can effectively implement sanctions and strengthen oversight to curb the unauthorized flow of critical technologies," said Vladyslav Vlasiuk, Advisor to the Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine, Secretary of the International Working Group on Sanctions against Russia.

The International Working Group on Sanctions was established on the initiative of President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy. It is co-chaired by Head of the Presidential Office Andriy Yermak and Director of the Freeman-Spogli Institute for International Studies (FSI) Ambassador Michael McFaul. The group includes international and Ukrainian experts, including representatives of the Kyiv School of Economics.



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NEW YORK, Aug. 28, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Scott+Scott Attorneys at Law LLP (Scott+Scott), an international securities and consumer rights litigation firm, continues investigating whether certain directors and officers of Catalent, Inc. (Catalent and/or Company) (NYSE: CTLT) breached their fiduciary duties to Catalent and its shareholders. If you are a Catalent shareholder, you may contact attorney Joe Pettigrew for additional information toll-free at 844-818-6982, or jpettigrew@scott-scott.com.

Scott+Scott is investigating whether members of Catalents board of directors or senior management failed to manage Catalent in an acceptable manner, in breach of their fiduciary duties to Catalent, and whether Catalent and its shareholders have suffered damages as a result.

On April 14, 2023, the Company issued a press release providing a business update, which stated that the Company expected productivity issues and higher-than-expected costs experienced at three of its facilities. On May 8, 2023, Catalent announced that it was delaying the release of its 3Q22 results, until May 15, noting significant operational and productivity issues, as well as significant issues with its financial forecasts. Catalent later delayed their adjusted earnings release date twice more, leading to a delisting notice with the New York Stock Exchange. Catalent finally released its quarterly results on June 12, 2023.

What You Can Do

If you are a Catalent shareholder, you may have legal claims against Catalents directors and officers. If you wish to discuss this investigation, or have questions about this notice or your legal rights, please contact attorney Joe Pettigrew toll-free at 844-818-6982, or jpettigrew@scott-scott.com.

About Scott+Scott

Scott+Scott has significant experience in prosecuting major securities, antitrust, and consumer rights actions throughout the United States. The firm represents pension funds, foundations, individuals, and other entities worldwide with offices in New York, London, Amsterdam, Connecticut, California, and Ohio.

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NEWARK, Del, Aug. 28, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Galley Equipment Market is set to experience significant expansion in the coming years, displaying a promising growth trajectory.



Projections indicate that by 2023, the market is expected to reach a notable value of US$ 10.1 Billion, showcasing its strong growth potential. This positive momentum is projected to continue as the market steadily progresses at a rate of 5.3% throughout the forecast period. By 2033, the Galley Equipment industry is forecasted to achieve a substantial valuation of US$ 16.8 Billion.

The market for Galley Equipment is experiencing a significant surge, fueled by the growing demand for touchless solutions and advanced cabin ambiance in the aviation and maritime industries.

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Elevating Travel Experience: Modern Galley Equipment's Role in Safety, Luxury, and Sustainability:

Airlines and cruise lines are increasingly investing in modern Galley Equipment with touchless controls and self-sanitizing features to enhance passenger safety and hygiene during travel. Additionally, the rising focus on providing a seamless and luxurious onboard experience has led to the incorporation of advanced lighting, customizable interiors, and eco-friendly materials in Galley Equipment.

This trend is revolutionizing the industry, elevating the skies with innovative solutions that prioritize passenger well-being and comfort, while aligning with sustainability goals.

Galley Equipment is no longer limited to functional purposes; it has evolved to enhance the overall cabin ambiance and passenger experience.

Advanced interior ambient lighting systems, such as LEDs and OLEDs, are being incorporated into Galley Equipment to create an inviting and comfortable environment for travelers.

The ability to customize lighting settings and colors allows airlines and cruise lines to set the mood and create a relaxing atmosphere for passengers, contributing to an elevated journey.

Continuous research and development efforts are at the forefront of the Galley Equipment industry. Manufacturers are relentlessly pursuing innovations to meet the evolving needs of the travel industry.

Energy-efficient appliances, compact storage solutions, and modular designs are some of the ground-breaking advancements reshaping Galley Equipment. Additionally, Galley Equipment providers are exploring novel materials with a focus on lightweight and sustainable options, enabling airlines and cruise lines to reduce fuel consumption and environmental impact.

Amidst the market's progress, several challenges demand attention from manufacturers. Limited space constraints in aircraft and ships pose challenges in designing Galley Equipment that balances functionality and passenger comfort.

Compliance with strict safety and regulatory standards adds complexity to Galley Equipment development and manufacturing. Fluctuating raw material prices can impact manufacturing costs and pricing, affecting suppliers' profitability.

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Key Takeaways From This Market Report:

The Galley Equipment industry in the United States is expected to capture a market share of US$ 3.1 Billion by 2033.

The United Kingdom Galley Equipment industry is anticipated to move forward at a rate of 5.0% from 2023 to 2033.

By 2033, the market for Galley Equipment in China is predicted to hold a US$ 3.9 Billion share on a global level.

On the basis of application, the marine sub-segment is likely to be the prominent one securing a 5.0% CAGR from 2023 to 2033.

The retrofit sub-segment, by fit, is predicted to be moving forward at a 5.1% growth rate over the forecast period.



How Strong is the Competition in the Galley Equipment Industry?

The competition in the Galley Equipment industry is robust and dynamic, driven by a diverse array of players vying for market share.

Established Galley Equipment manufacturers, as well as specialized companies offering customized solutions, compete to meet the evolving demands of airlines, cruise lines, and maritime operators.

Key factors influencing competition include product quality, technological advancements, cost-effectiveness, and the ability to provide tailored solutions to enhance passenger experience and operational efficiency.

With continuous research and development efforts and a focus on innovation, the Galley Equipment market presents a challenging landscape, encouraging companies to stay at the forefront of the industry's evolution to gain a competitive edge.

Top Companies in the Galley Equipment Market:

Aerolux Ltd. Air Cabin Engineering Inc. Aluminox S.A. B/E Aerospace, Inc. Bucher Leichtbau AG



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Recent Developments:

Leading enterprises within the worldwide aircraft Galley Equipment sector, such as Zodiac Aerospace, are presently integrating electrically-based technologies and resilient systems to amplify overall operational efficiency and effectiveness.

Turkish Aerospace has established a strategic alliance with TCI Cabin Interior for the execution of the Airborne Standoff Jammer (ASOJ) initiative. The primary objective of this collaborative endeavor is the identification of adversary communication radars and systems, followed by their proficient neutralization, thus guaranteeing non-interference by friendly forces, particularly in scenarios involving transnational operations.

Global Market Segmentation:

By Fit:

Retrofit

Line Fit

By Application:

Marine

Aviation

Explore Future Market Insights, Inc. Extensive Coverage in Industrial Automation Domain:

Hot Chamber Die Casting Machine Market Size: Anticipated at US$ 65.4 Billion by 2023, the global Hot Chamber Die Casting Machine Market thrives on expanding end-user sectors like automotive. Forecasts suggest a 5% CAGR in sales between 2023 and 2033, culminating in a total of approximately US$ 101.5 Billion by 2033.

HVAC Blower and Fan Systems Market Share: Projected at US$ 1.3 Billion in 2023, the global HVAC Blower and Fan Systems Market is set to reach US$ 1.8 Billion by 2033, growing at a 3.2% CAGR between the mentioned years.

Electric Hedge Trimmer Market Outlook: In 2022, the global Electric Hedge Trimmer Market totaled US$ 476.6 Million. Predicted to reach US$ 503.3 Million in 2023, the market is poised for a 5.6% CAGR from 2023 to 2033, aiming for a value of US$867.9 Million by 2033, as per FMI's analysis.

High-Density Racks (>100Kw) Market Demand: The High-Density Racks (>100Kw) Market is poised for a 3.8% CAGR from 2023 to 2033. Projected at US$ 34.56 Billion in 2023, it aims to secure a market share of US$ 48.35 Billion by 2033.

Wireless Fire Detection Systems Market Growth: The global Wireless Fire Detection Systems Market is set for significant expansion, aiming for a value of US$1.4 Billion by 2023. Fueled by rising demand, it anticipates a strong 7.6% CAGR, targeting a remarkable US$ 2.9 Billion by 2033.

Peristaltic Pumps Market Analysis: Peristaltic Pumps Market to grow at 3.8% CAGR, reaching US$1.8 Billion by 2033 from US$ 1.3 Billion in 2023.

Spider Cranes Market Forecast: The global Spider Cranes Market reached US$ 212.3 Million in 2018. Notably, it grew by 5.4% in 2022, reaching around US$ 254.3 Million. Forecasts predict a 6.7% CAGR from 2023 to 2033, culminating in a US$483.0 Million market size by 2033. This progression is expected to generate a significant US$ 228.7 Million in absolute dollar opportunity during the assessment period.

About Future Market Insights (FMI):

Future Market Insights, Inc. (ESOMAR certified, Stevie Award - recipient market research organization and a member of Greater New York Chamber of Commerce) provides in-depth insights into governing factors elevating the demand in the market. It discloses opportunities that will favor the market growth in various segments on the basis of Source, Application, Sales Channel and End Use over the next 10 years.

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Toronto, Ontario, Aug. 28, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- MiniLuxe Holding Corp. (TSXV: MNLX) today announced its financial results for the 13 weeks ended July 2, 2023 (Q2 2023) and the 26 weeks ended July 2, 2023 (H1 2023). The fiscal year of MiniLuxe is a 52-week reporting cycle ending on the Sunday closest to December 31, which periodically necessitates a fiscal year of 53 weeks. FY2022 consisted of a 53-week period while all other fiscal years referred to in this release consist of 52-week periods. All quarters referred to in this release consist of 13-week periods. Unless otherwise specified, all amounts are reported in U.S. dollars.



MiniLuxe is pleased to announce continued double-digit growth in year-over-year (YOY) revenue as the team continues to drive the business towards cashflow positive operations. Entering 2023, MiniLuxe built a strategy in its first full post-Covid year to leverage its core studio business (fleet of company-owned MiniLuxe locations) and its continued positive contribution while identifying and testing opportunities for diversification of revenue across new growth channels.

Strength in the core studio base business

Similar to previous periods, MiniLuxe continued its trend of double-digit growth in Q2 2023 as total company revenue increased 16% over Q2 2022 to $6.4M (all figures in US dollars). The continued growth reflects well vs. pre-pandemic (2019) comparatives as revenue increased 23% on a same-studio basis vs. Q2 2019. Q2 2023 gross profit increased 9% over Q2 2022 to $2.7M. As in past periods, the majority of this growth came organically from the studio base business as did the gross profit. The Company views gross profit dollar growth as a key indicator of MiniLuxes positive trajectory towards long-term profitability. Key drivers of revenue growth and gross profit growth in the core studio base came from positive momentum on the demand side (new customer and loyal customer growth) and supply side (talent ecosystem growth to deliver service demand).

New and loyal customer growth : MiniLuxe continues to see robust growth in new customer count across the studios with an average new customer rate of ~15%. MiniLuxes loyal customer base remains robust and growing, with ~10,000 studio clients that average over 10 visits per year, a 7% increase year-over-year. The top 30 percent of these loyal clients visit MiniLuxe more than 20 times per year and have an average annual spend of ~$2000.





: MiniLuxe continues to see robust growth in new customer count across the studios with an average new customer rate of ~15%. MiniLuxes loyal customer base remains robust and growing, with ~10,000 studio clients that average over 10 visits per year, a 7% increase year-over-year. The top 30 percent of these loyal clients visit MiniLuxe more than 20 times per year and have an average annual spend of ~$2000. Growth in attracting talent : On the supply side, MiniLuxes current and future success comes from the continued growth, development, and scaling of the MiniLuxe Talent Ecosystem. Beauty professionals who are part of MiniLuxes Talent Ecosystem are part of a Career Path Program  from Apprentice, Junior Designer, Studio Designer to Artistic and Expert Designer Levels. Total beauty professionals across MiniLuxes Talent Ecosystem ended Q2 2023 18% higher than year-end and 27% higher than Q2 2022. The MiniLuxe studio fleet total staffed hours grew at double-digit rates vs. Q2 2022 with a focus of staffing on peak (high traffic) days, leading to similar growth rates in fleet appointment hours.





Continued progress but greater selectivity in other new growth channels

While new growth channels demonstrated continued progress, results were more mixed in terms of the ability to have near-term term impact on profitability. Outside of the studio base of business for MiniLuxe, new growth channels include its Anywhere off-premise services as well as MiniLuxe product revenue through e-commerce and wholesale channels. Given foreseeable macro-economic headwinds, the MiniLuxe Board and Management hold the view of prioritizing quality of revenue over quantity of revenue and are in the process of realigning resources to more selectively pull-back and / or double down in each of these growth channels.

MiniLuxe Anywhere R efocus : As previously shared, MiniLuxe has been exploring strategies to introduce and offer off-premise services to the self-care marketplace, referred to as MiniLuxe Anywhere. Throughout the past eighteen months, the Company has tested and explored multiple formats and opportunities, from development of a platform for on-demand mobile services, to 1:1 home and office visits, to corporate/events services offerings. While MiniLuxe Anywhere exhibited some good positive initial results in its test markets, the Company has narrowed its focus to Store-in-Store channel opportunities and selective events which have been more profitable and scalable versus delivering in individual homes and offices. Density of service delivery (i.e., where MiniLuxe has more locations and more talent) will be an important factor on future decisions regarding priority markets.

MiniLuxe Product O pportunities : Given industry-wide changes in paid social media, MiniLuxe took a conservative marketing spend approach to best generate marketing efficiency and positive e-commerce DTC (direct-to-consumer) growth. While the base of e-commerce remains modest, Q2 2023 e-commerce orders grew 63% from Q2 2022 and new customer counts increased 64% year-over-year with positive marketing-efficiency (i.e., positive return on spend) give management confidence of product potential. Hero SKUs  those products that have the highest sales velocity  remain in the categories of self-care products for hand and foot-care and seasonal polish colors.

Updates on M&A and Paintbox Integration

M&A remains an important part of MiniLuxes longer term growth plans. The MiniLuxe management team continues to assess opportunities for accretive growth via acquisitions. The current macro-economic environment offers with it more reasonable multiples for targets for service or product revenue acquisition candidates.

MiniLuxes planned growth initiatives for its Paintbox brand, which was acquired in Fall 2022, continue with further activities taken over the past several months. As a reminder, Paintbox, based in New York City and founded in 2014, has been re-defining the nail-care industry through its proprietary nail art designs. The two principal areas of focus for Paintbox are exploring store-in-store growth opportunities  which have included a test of the format in MiniLuxes Boston South End studio. The footprint of less than 200 square feet presents the opportunity for a capital-light model to scale in the future  with the largest opportunity being national channel partners.

Asset-light store-in-store opportunities : The Company also launched a test for a second Paintbox store-in-store concept in collaboration with a New York fashion house that explores a model where a MiniLuxe or Paintbox outpost can serve as a traffic-generating amenity in exchange for in-kind rent and various revenue share models.





: The Company also launched a test for a second Paintbox store-in-store concept in collaboration with a New York fashion house that explores a model where a MiniLuxe or Paintbox outpost can serve as a traffic-generating amenity in exchange for in-kind rent and various revenue share models. Ready-to-Wear Nail rollout: MiniLuxe and Paintbox will also partner during New York Fashion Week (NYFW) this September. Some of the iconic fashion brands that the brands will partner with include 3.1 Phillip Lim and Tory Burch, where Paintbox will launch and feature a new product offering with Ready-to-Wear Nail Art. This latest Paintbox innovation represents the brands reinvention of press-on nails - curated in design and with some of the highest quality fit and finish qualities in the industry. To provide some perspective, press-on nails market sales exceeded wet polish sales industry wide in 2023.





While the macro-economic environment still presents challenges, the core studio and its services remain strong, and we need to continue to compound the cash contribution from that base business while making the right bets on products, partnerships and M&A. Weve seen a greater number of inbound opportunities that give us confidence on the strength of our brand in the industry, but most exciting this quarter has been the strong growth of both new customers and our most loyal customers, said Tony Tjan, Executive Chairman and Co-founder of MiniLuxe.

Go-forward focus

With 3+ million services completed to date, a growing talent ecosystem of empowered beauty professionals, and expanded offerings across our product channels, MiniLuxe is well-positioned to continue building its market presence and creating long-term shareholder value.

In closing, MiniLuxes Board and Executive Team are focused on delivering a plan to achieve long-term cashflow generative operations through execution of three key pillars:

(1) Continued compounding of studio economics, particularly studio contribution, across the core base fleet business,

(2) Realignment of MiniLuxes infrastructure and cost base to focus on key priorities and achieve material fixed cost leverage in the near term, and

(3) Identifying and executing on a focused set of growth investments that have breakout growth potential.

As previously mentioned and subsequent to the end of Q2 2023, MiniLuxe completed an initial reconfiguration of its overhead, which should yield fixed cost leverage benefits in H2 2023. In addition to these actions, MiniLuxe is in the process of assessing and executing on further revenue and cost initiatives with the goal of providing a faster path to cashflow positive operations. The Company looks forward to sharing further updates throughout the remainder of the year.

Q2 2023 Financial Highlights ($USD)

Total revenue of $6.4M, a YoY increase of 16%

Gross profit of $2.7M, a 9% increase from prior year

Full Company Adjusted EBITDA 1 of ($2.2M) compared to ($2.4M) for Q2 2022; decreased loss attributable to lower SG&A and initial commencement of fixed cost leverage

of ($2.2M) compared to ($2.4M) for Q2 2022; decreased loss attributable to lower SG&A and initial commencement of fixed cost leverage Fleet Adjusted EBITDA1 in line with prior year ($0.5M)

H1 2023 Financial Highlights ($USD)

Total revenue of $11.6M, a YoY increase of 17%

Gross profit of $4.9M, a 12% increase from prior year

Full Company Adjusted EBITDA 1 of ($4.8M) compared to ($4.7M) for H1 2022; slightly lower EBITDA than prior year attributable to lag in SG&A related cost adjustments

of ($4.8M) compared to ($4.7M) for H1 2022; slightly lower EBITDA than prior year attributable to lag in SG&A related cost adjustments Fleet Adjusted EBITDA1 in line with prior year ($0.6M)

Other Items of Note

During Q2 2023, the Company completed construction and commenced operations in a new studio location in West Central Florida, at the Water Street Development in downtown Tampa Bay, FL. The grand opening of the studio occurred on May 11, 2023, as MiniLuxe celebrated its 21 st studio location opening, the first since the pandemic.

studio location opening, the first since the pandemic. During H1 2023, the Company signed a lease to open a new studio in Dedham, Massachusetts at the Legacy Place Development. The lessor has not yet made the studio available for use.

Q2 and H1 2023 Results

Selected Financial Measures

MiniLuxe notes a change in accounting policy to more accurately reflect revenue generated from talent and product revenue streams to more align with how management analyzes the Company. The change has been retrospectively applied and does not have any effect on revenue recognition principles utilized or total overall revenue recognized.

Thirteen weeks ended YoY Change July 2, June 26, $ Change % Change 2023 2022 Talent 6,237,148 5,433,252 803,896 15 % Product 148,130 52,865 95,265 180 % Total Revenue 6,385,278 5,486,117 899,161 16 % Gross Profit ($) 2,705,756 2,489,408 216,348 9 % Gross Margin (%) 42 % 45 % Twenty-six weeks ended YoY Change July 2, June 26, $ Change % Change 2023 2022 Talent 11,333,473 9,775,230 1,558,243 16 % Product 269,778 117,788 151,990 129 % Total Revenue 11,603,251 9,893,018 1,710,233 17 % Gross Profit ($) 4,915,173 4,398,657 516,516 12 % Gross Margin (%) 42 % 44 % Non-IFRS Metrics Thirteen weeks ended Twenty-six weeks ended July 2, June 26, July 2, June 26, In thousands 2023 2022 2023 2022 Adjusted EBITDA ($ 2,172 ) ($ 2,449 ) ($ 4,803 ) ($ 4,732 ) Fleet Adjusted EBITDA $ 468 $ 510 $ 585 $ 575





Results of Operations

The following table outlines the consolidated statements of loss and comprehensive loss for the fiscal quarters ended July 2, 2023, and June 26, 2022:

Thirteen weeks ended Twenty-six weeks ended July 2, June 26, July 2, June 26, 2023 2022 2023 2022 Revenue $ 6,385,278 $ 5,486,117 $ 11,603,251 $ 9,893,018 Cost of sales 3,679,522 2,996,709 6,688,078 5,494,361 Gross profit 2,705,756 2,489,408 4,915,173 4,398,657 General and administrative expense 4,395,229 4,373,114 8,776,434 8,019,734 Depreciation and amortization expense 872,100 727,659 1,701,884 1,491,027 Operating loss (2,561,573 ) (2,611,365 ) (5,563,145 ) (5,112,104 ) Finance costs (340,231 ) (336,802 ) (677,242 ) (685,707 ) Other income 6,680 3,248 3,166,240 167,470 Unrealized loss (51,170 ) - (51,170 ) - Income (loss) before taxes (2,946,294 ) (2,944,919 ) (3,125,317 ) (5,630,341 ) Income tax expenses (23,501 ) (17,492 ) (35,711 ) (42,011 ) Net and comprehensive income (loss) $ (2,969,795 ) $ (2,962,411 ) $ (3,161,028 ) $ (5,672,352 ) Earnings per share Subordinate voting shares (basic) (0.02 ) (0.02 ) (0.02 ) (0.04 ) Proportionate voting shares (basic) (20.19 ) (20.29 ) (21.49 ) (38.84 ) Subordinate voting shares (diluted) (0.02 ) (0.02 ) (0.02 ) (0.04 ) Proportionate voting shares (diluted) (20.19 ) (20.29 ) (21.49 ) (38.84 )





Cash Flows

The following table presents cash and cash equivalents as at July 2, 2023 and June 26, 2022:

Twenty-six weeks ended July 2, June 26, 2023 2022 Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash, beginning of period $ 8,343,375 $ 19,120,111 Net cash provided by (used in): Operating activities (1,291,397 ) (4,405,761 ) Investing activities (1,254,475 ) (423,451 ) Financing activities (943,599 ) (772,608 ) Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents (3,489,471 ) (5,601,820 ) Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash, end of period $ 4,853,904 $ 13,518,291





Non-IFRS Measures and Reconciliation of Non-IFRS Measures

This press release references certain non-IFRS measures used by management. These measures are not recognized under International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS), do not have a standardized meaning prescribed by IFRS, and are therefore unlikely to be comparable to similar measures presented by other companies. Rather, these measures are provided as additional information to complement those IFRS measures by providing further understanding of the Companys results of operations from managements perspective. Accordingly, these measures should not be considered in isolation nor as a substitute for analysis of the Companys financial information reported under IFRS. The non-IFRS measures referred to in this press release are Adjusted EBITDA and Fleet Adjusted EBITDA.

Adjusted EBITDA

Adjusted EBITDA is used by management as a supplemental measure to review and assess operating performance. Management believes Adjusted EBITDA most accurately reflects the commercial reality of the Company's operations on an ongoing basis by adding back non-cash expenses. Additionally, the rent-related adjustments ensure that studio-related expenses align with revenue generated over the corresponding time periods.

Adjusted EBITDA is calculated by adding back fixed asset depreciation, right-of-use asset depreciation under IFRS 16, asset disposal, and share-based compensation expense to IFRS operating income, then deducting straight-line rent expenses1 net of lease abatements. IFRS operating income is revenue less cost of sales (gross profit), additionally adjusted for general and administrative expenses, and depreciation and amortization expense.

The Company also uses Fleet Adjusted EBITDA to evaluate its fleet performance. This metric is calculated in a similar manner, starting with Talent revenue and adjusting for non-fleet Talent revenue and cost of sales, further adjusted by fleet SG&A and finally subtracting the same straight line rent expense used in the full company Adjusted EBITDA (as the fleet holds all real estate leases). The Company believes that this metric most closely mirrors how management views the fleet portion of the business.

The following table reconciles Adjusted EBITDA to net loss for the periods indicated:

Thirteen weeks ended Twenty-six weeks ended July 2, June 26, July 2, June 26, in thousands of U.S. dollars 2023 2022 2023 2022 Operating Loss $ (2,562 ) $ (2,611 ) $ (5,563 ) $ (5,112 ) Right-of-Use Asset Amortization Expense 349 448 689 600 Fixed Asset Depreciation Expense 523 280 1,013 892 Disposals 89 89 Stock Compensation Expense 85 10 201 28 Straight Line Rent (656 ) (576 ) (1,232 ) (1,140 ) Full Company Adjusted EBITDA $ (2,172 ) $ (2,449 ) $ (4,803 ) $ (4,732 )





The following table reconciles Fleet Adjusted EBITDA to net loss for the periods indicated:

Thirteen weeks ended Twenty-six weeks ended July 2, June 26, July 2, June 26, in thousands of U.S. dollars 2023 2022 2023 2022 Talent Revenue $ 6,237 $ 5,433 $ 11,333 $ 9,775 Less: Non-Fleet Revenue (305 ) (56 ) (526 ) (79 ) Talent Cost of Sales (3,583 ) (2,977 ) (6,549 ) (5,447 ) Less: Non-Fleet Cost of Sales 262 49 408 104 Fleet SG&A (1,571 ) (1,363 ) (2,960 ) (2,638 ) Fleet Straight Line Rent (572 ) (576 ) (1,121 ) (1,140 ) Fleet Adjusted EBITDA $ 468 $ 510 $ 585 $ 575





About MiniLuxe

MiniLuxe, a Delaware corporation based in Boston, Massachusetts is a digital-first, socially responsible lifestyle brand and talent empowerment platform and marketplace [lets consider] for the nail and waxing industry. For over a decade, MiniLuxe has been setting industry standards for health, hygiene, high quality services, and fair labor practices in its efforts to transform the nail care and waxing industry. Underlying MiniLuxes mission and purpose is to become one of the largest inclusionary educators and employers of diverse self-care professionals across our omni-channel ecosystem and talent empowerment platform.

Today, MiniLuxe derives its revenue streams from nail care and waxing services across an omni-channel ecosystem of on premises with company-owned studios and partnerships and off-premises on-demand services. The company also develops and sells a proprietary retail and e-commerce line of clean nail care and waxing products that are also used in MiniLuxe services. MiniLuxe is driven by a fully integrated digital platform that manages all client bookings, preferences, and payments and provides designers with the ability to manage scheduling and client preferences, track their performance and compensation, and access training content. Since its inception, MiniLuxe has performed nearly 3 million services. www.miniluxe.com

For further information

Anthony Tjan

Executive Chairman, MiniLuxe Holding Corp.

atjan@miniluxe.com

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Forward-looking statements

This press release contains "forward-looking information" and "forward-looking statements" (collectively, "forward-looking information") concerning the Company and its subsidiaries within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Forward-looking information may relate to the future financial outlook and anticipated events or results of the Company and may include information regarding the Company's financial position, business strategy, growth strategies, acquisition prospects and plans, addressable markets, budgets, operations, financial results, taxes, dividend policy, plans and objectives. Particularly, information regarding the Company's expectations of future results, performance, achievements, prospects or opportunities or the markets in which the Company operates is forward-looking information. In some cases, forward-looking information can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "plans", "targets", "expects", "budgets", "scheduled", "estimates", "outlook", "forecasts", "projects", "prospects", "strategy", "intends", "anticipates", "believes", or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might", or "will" occur. In addition, any statements that refer to expectations, intentions, projections or other characterizations of future events or circumstances contain forward-looking information. Statements containing forward-looking information are not historical facts but instead represent management's expectations, estimates and projections regarding future events or circumstances.

Many factors could cause the Company's actual results, performance, or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance, or achievements that may be expressed or implied by such forward-looking information, including, without limitation, those listed in the "Risk Factors" section of the Company's filing statement dated November 9, 2021. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should assumptions underlying the forward-looking statements prove incorrect, actual results, performance, or achievements could vary materially from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements contained in this press release.

Forward-looking information, by its nature, is based on the Company's opinions, estimates and assumptions in light of management's experience and perception of historical trends, current conditions and expected future developments, as well as other factors that the Company currently believes are appropriate and reasonable in the circumstances. Those factors should not be construed as exhaustive. Despite a careful process to prepare and review forward-looking information, there can be no assurance that the underlying opinions, estimates and assumptions will prove to be correct. These factors should be considered carefully, and readers should not place undue reliance on the forward-looking information. Although the Company bases its forward-looking information on assumptions that it believes were reasonable when made, which include, but are not limited to, assumptions with respect to the Company's future growth potential, results of operations, future prospects and opportunities, execution of the Company's business strategy, there being no material variations in the current tax and regulatory environments, future levels of indebtedness and current economic conditions remaining unchanged, the Company cautions readers that forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and that our actual results of operations, financial condition and liquidity, and the development of the industry in which the Company operates may differ materially from the forward-looking statements contained in this press release. In addition, even if the Company's results of operations, financial condition and liquidity, and the development of the industry in which it operates are consistent with the forward-looking information contained in this press release, those results or developments may not be indicative of results or developments in subsequent periods.

Although the Company has attempted to identify important risk factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking information, there may be other risk factors not presently known to the Company or that the Company presently believes are not material that could also cause actual results or future events to differ materially from those expressed in such forward-looking information. There can be no assurance that such information will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such information. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information, which speaks only as of the date made (or as of the date they are otherwise stated to be made). Any forward-looking statement that is made in this press release speaks only as of the date of such statement.

1Straight-line rent expense for a given payment period is calculated by dividing the sum of all payments over the life of the lease (the figure used in the present value calculation of the right-of-use asset) by the number of payment periods (typically months). This number is then annualized by adding the rent expenses calculated for the payment periods that comprise each fiscal year. For leases signed mid-year, the total straight-line rent expense calculation applies the new lease terms only to the payment periods after the signing of the new lease.
LEHI, Utah, Aug. 28, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- DeepPower, Inc., the developer of a breakthrough geothermal drilling technology to access the Earths unlimited source of clean energy, today reported that in a recent Company podcast CEO Andrew Van Noy spoke with geological engineer and university professor Dr. Horacio Ferriz about the impact of drilling faster and deeper.



During the conversation, Dr. Ferriz mentioned one of his greatest challenges while working on his Ph.D. 30 years ago. Specifically, he and his team aimed to draw up hot water lying only 1,500 feet below the Earth's surface from super hard rock. Their goal was to "flash it into steam and use it to push turbines," a concept quite similar to the science behind modern-day geothermal drilling. However, now the goal is to drill six to eight miles deep.

"There's tons of pressure and hard rock to get through, and no one's done it yet, said DeepPower CEO Andrew Van Noy. At DeepPower we're focused on a new drilling technology to allow us to drill faster through hard rock.

This technology isn't a distant idea either, Mr. Van Noy reported. Recent studies show DeepPower's drilling technology can increase the drilling penetration rate by over 600%, a feat that was thought impossible 30 years ago.

Dr. Horacio Ferriz is a geological engineer by training and the Department Chair of Geology and Professor of Applied Geology at California State University Stanislaw. He has more than 20 years of professional geologic, geotechnical, hydrogeologic, and environmental experience. Over this time period he has worked as geologic problem-solver in projects throughout the world involving water supply, civil works design, environmental engineering, solid waste management, geothermal exploration, and mineral exploration.

As an active professional engineering geologist, Dr. Ferriz has supervised geotechnical investigations, groundwater investigations, and geophysical surveys for projects in a variety of geologic settings. He is well versed in analytical and numerical hydrology and groundwater flow models, contaminant fate and transport models, geotechnical models, seismic analysis, slope stability, and dynamic deformation analysis. He is the Principal of HF Geologic Engineering, an international consulting firm, and the author of over 15 research papers dealing with the geology of Mexico and California, landfill engineering, stability analysis, and development and management of water resources.

A graduate of the prestigious School of Engineering of Mexicos National University, and of Stanford University, Dr. Ferriz is a certified Geologic Engineer in Mexico and the United States, and in this capacity has provided support to several international projects. He is the Director of Water for the World, an educational project of California State University that has the stated goal of promoting capacity-building in the areas of development, management, and utilization of water resources. In this capacity, Dr. Ferriz first went to Ethiopia as part of a humanitarian effort to help fight poverty, and has since fell in love with the country and its people. He is an advisor to the Dams Review Team of this country, and tries to get there every other year to teach seminars on groundwater exploration, river engineering, and engineering geology applied to reservoir design and dam construction. Water for the World is also involved in development of new water resources for the city of Guadalajara, in western Mexico, so Dr. Ferriz and his students have an excuse to go do field work in one of the most beautiful areas of the world!

This podcast can be viewed at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xCk_y6XJPdY.

About DeepPower, Inc.

Deep Power is developing a breakthrough drilling technology to access Earths unlimited source of green geothermal energy. The Earths molten core is as hot as the Sun and harnessing just 0.1% of that heat energy can power humanity for 2 million years. Previous generations of drilling technology cannot go deep enough to make geothermal cost effective. We are developing a suite of advanced low-cost, high-temperature and high-pressure drilling systems to boldly go where no humans have gone before. The deeper we go the more energy we can unleash. Unlike large area solar and wind farms, a 9-inch hole by 5 miles deep can produce the same amount of power as 320 acres of solar panels. Like a power plug into the Earth, we aim to provide every city, state, and country direct and independent access to this holy grail source of eternal green energy.

For more information about DeepPower, Inc., please visit our website at www.DeepPower.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release may contain forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are neither historical facts nor assurances of future performance. Instead, they are based only on our current beliefs, expectations, and assumptions regarding the future of our business, future plans and strategies, projections, anticipated events and trends, the economy and other future conditions. Because forward-looking statements relate to the future, they are subject to inherent uncertainties, risks and changes in circumstances that are difficult to predict and many of which are outside of our control. Our actual results and financial condition may differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements. Therefore, you should not rely on any of these forward-looking statements. Any forward-looking statement made by us in this release is based only on information currently available to us and speaks only as of the date on which it is made. We undertake no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statement, whether written or oral, that may be made from time to time, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise, except as may be required under applicable law.

Press Contact:

1 (800) 347-0589
Westford, USA, Aug. 28, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- According to SkyQuest's latest global research of the Camping Tent market , increasing demand for lightweight and ultralight camping tents, growing popularity of inflatable and pop-up tents for easy setup, rising interest in eco-friendly and sustainable camping tent materials, adoption of smart features in camping tents, such as built-in LED lights and USB ports, surge in demand for family-sized and multi-room camping tents, growing trend of glamping (luxury camping) and premium camping tent options, the emergence of innovative tent designs for specific activities like backpacking, car camping, and expedition, are the trends that aid in the market's growth.

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Tables - 88

Figures - 76

Camping tent market is the market for tents that are used for camping. It is a large and growing market, driven by the increasing popularity of camping and outdoor activities.

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Prominent Players in Camping Tent Market

Coleman

Kelty

Eureka!

Big Agnes

Marmot

North Face

MSR

Nemo Equipment

Mountain Hardwear

Alps Mountaineering

REI Co-op

Teton Sports

Naturehike

Kampa

Vango

Hilleberg

Tatonka

Salewa

Exped

Sea to Summit

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Dome Tents Demand to Grow Substantially in the Forecast Period

Dome tents dominated the global market owing to their ease of setup. It also offers advantages such as ease of setup, stability in different weather conditions, and efficient use of space. They are versatile and suitable for various camping scenarios, including backpacking, family camping, and outdoor festivals.

Family Camping is the Leading Application Segment

In terms of application, family camping is the leading segment due to the demand for multiple accommodations. In addition, it offers spacious interiors, separate sleeping areas, and sometimes additional features like room dividers or awnings. As camping is increasingly seen as a popular recreational activity for families, the demand for family camping tents has grown.

North America is the leading Market Due to the Strong Camping Culture

Region-wise, North America is one of the largest growing markets with a huge emphasis on camping culture. The region has a significant number of camping enthusiasts and well-established camping destinations. It offers diverse landscapes, national parks, and campgrounds that attract a large number of campers. Additionally, North America is home to several well-known camping and outdoor gear brands, contributing to the market dominance.

A recent report thoroughly analyzes the major players operating within the Camping Tent market. This comprehensive evaluation has considered several crucial factors, such as collaborations, mergers, innovative business policies, and strategies, providing invaluable insights into the key trends and breakthroughs in the market. Additionally, the report has carefully scrutinized the market share of the top segments and presented a detailed geographic analysis. Finally, the report has highlighted the major players in the industry and their ongoing endeavors to develop innovative solutions that cater to the ever-increasing demand for Camping Tent.

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Key Developments in Camping Tent Market

North Face announced the launch of STORMBREAK 2, a new and advanced camping tent, which has facility to offer novel exploration shelter and big tent door for providing easy access to explore the natural depth.

Key Questions Answered in Camping Tent Market Report

What specific growth drivers are projected to impact the market during the forecast period?

Can you list the top companies in the market and explain how they have achieved their positions of influence?

In what ways do regional trends and patterns differ within the global market, and how might these differences shape the market's future growth?

Related Reports in SkyQuests Library:

Global Functional Apparel Market

Global Mens Swimwear Market

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Global Decorated Apparel Market

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Westford USA, Aug. 28, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- According to SkyQuest's latest global research of the Passive Fire Protection Coatings market , increasing use of intumescent coatings for enhanced fire protection, growing demand for water-based and eco-friendly fire protection coatings, rising adoption of thin film intumescent coatings for aesthetic appeal, development of innovative fire-resistant coatings with improved performance, integration of smart technologies in fire protection coatings, expanding applications of passive fire protection coatings in various industries, rising focus on fire protection in the oil and gas sector, are the trends that aid in the market's growth.

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Tables - 92

Figures - 74

The passive fire protection coating market is the market for materials and systems that are used to protect structures from fire. These coatings slow the spread of flames and heat, giving people more time to escape a fire. The market is expected to grow significantly in the coming years due to the increasing demand for fire safety measures in buildings and other structures.

Prominent Players in Passive Fire Protection Coatings Market

AkzoNobel

BASF

Jotun

PPG Industries

Sherwin-Williams

The Dow Chemical Company

RPM International

Nippon Paint

Kansai Paint

Valspar

Hempel

Axalta Coating Systems

3M

Sherwin-Williams Performance Coatings

Promat International

Fireguard

Intumescent Fire Protection

Promat Group

Teknos Group

Jotun Group

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Intumescent Coatings Demand to Grow Substantially in the Forecast Period

Intumescent Coatings dominated the global market due to their ability to expand and form an insulating char when exposed to high temperatures, providing effective fire protection. They offer advantages such as thin film thickness, aesthetic appeal, and versatility in application methods.

Spray Application is the Leading Application Segment

In terms of application, the spray is the leading segment due to its ability to cover a larger area. In addition, it offers advantages such as ease of application, faster coverage, uniform coating thickness, and suitability for complex or irregular surfaces. It allows for efficient and cost-effective application, particularly in large-scale projects where time and labor savings are crucial.

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Asia-Pacific is the leading Market Due to the Emphasis on Fire Regulations

Region-wise, Asia-Pacific is one of the largest growing markets with a huge emphasis on fire regulations. The region is actively adopting and enforcing building codes and standards promoting fire safety are likely to have a higher demand for passive fire protection coatings. Compliance with these regulations can drive market dominance. Moreover, the region strongly focuses on research and development in fire protection technologies, innovative coating formulations, and sustainable solutions that may gain a competitive advantage and dominate the market.

A recent report thoroughly analyzes the major players operating within the Passive Fire Protection Coatings market. This comprehensive evaluation has considered several crucial factors, such as collaborations, mergers, innovative business policies, and strategies, providing invaluable insights into the key trends and breakthroughs in the market. Additionally, the report has carefully scrutinized the market share of the top segments and presented a detailed geographic analysis. Finally, the report has highlighted the major players in the industry and their ongoing endeavors to develop innovative solutions that cater to the ever-increasing demand for Passive Fire Protection Coatings.

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Key Developments in Passive Fire Protection Coatings Market

Zenova Group PLC, a producer of fire safety and heat management technology, signed a "partners in health" agreement with the Epsom & St. Hellier University Hospitals NHS Trust in Surrey, UK. Following an inspection of Zenova's fire safety and insulation products by the Trust's EME Technical Support Services division, the contract was signed, and Zenova was recognised as an NHS valued partner. It paves the way for Zenova's solutions to be used to improve fire safety and insulation throughout the Trust's estate.

Key Questions Answered in Passive Fire Protection Coatings Market Report

What specific growth drivers are projected to impact the market during the forecast period?

Can you list the top companies in the market and explain how they have achieved their positions of influence?

In what ways do regional trends and patterns differ within the global market, and how might these differences shape the market's future growth?

Related Reports in SkyQuests Library:

Global Precipitated Calcium Carbonate Market

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Global Fluorosilicic Acid Market

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Pune, India, Aug. 29, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The global autonomous ships market size was valued at USD 5.21 billion in 2022. The market is projected to grow from USD 5.61 billion in 2023 to USD 9.87 billion by 2030, exhibiting a CAGR of 8.4% during the forecast period.

Autonomous ships refer to ships that are operated remotely or possess high levels of automation. These vessels incorporate cutting-edge Internet of Things (IoT) technology, data analysis technology, and connect to land-based monitoring centers through broadband networks. The increasing adoption of these advanced technologies is expected to fuel the growth of the market.

Fortune Business Insights presents this information in their report titled "Global Autonomous Ships Market, 20232030."

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Major Players Profiled in the Autonomous Ships Market Report:

ABB (Switzerland)

ASELSAN A.S. (Turkey)

BAE Systems (U.K.)

Fugro (Netherlands)

GE (U.S.)

Honeywell International Inc. (U.S.)

Kongsberg Gruppen Maritime (Norway)

L3 ASV (U.S.)

Northrop Grumman (U.S.)

Rolls Royce plc (U.K.)

Siemens Energy (Germany)

Wartsila (Finland)

Marine Technologies LLC (U.S.)

Ulstein Group ASA (Norway)

Mitsui (Japan)

Sea Machines Robotics Inc. (U.S.)

Neptec Technologies Corp. (Canada)

Report Scope & Segmentation:

Attributes Details Forecast Period 2023-2030 Forecast CAGR 8.4% 2030Value Projection USD 9.87 billion Market Size in 2023 USD 9.87 billion Historical Data 2019-2021 No. of Pages 200 Report Coverage Revenue Forecast, Company Profiles, Competitive Landscape, Growth Factors and Latest Trends Segments Covered By Ship Type

By Autonomy

By Solution Regions Covered North America

Europe

Asia Pacific

Latin America

Middle East and Africa Autonomous Ships Market Growth Drivers Rising Investments in Advanced Ship Technology Developments to Boost Market Growth Development of Technological Advanced Next-Generation Autonomous Ships Increases the Market Growth

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COVID-19 Impact

Stringent Regulations During Pandemic On Sea Trade Activities Affected Market Growth

The market growth during pandemic was impeded by production shutdowns, disruptions in the supply chain, and mandatory quarantine periods for crew and staff. Local authorities-imposed restrictions on cargo and passenger ships, preventing them from entering ports. Consequently, merchant seamen had to remain on board, leading to extended stays in territorial waters and additional costs for ship owners.

Russia-Ukraine War Impact

Naval Forces Embrace Unmanned Ships due to their Autonomous Capabilities

Naval forces are increasingly drawn to the advantages offered by autonomous ships compared to traditional manned vessels. The U.S., in particular, has made substantial investments and formulated a strategic plan to procure medium, large, and extra-large "unmanned vehicles" for surface and undersea operations.

Segments:

Several Advantages of Fully Autonomous Ships Propel Segmental Growth

Based on autonomy, the market is classified into partial automation, remotely operated, and fully autonomous. The fully autonomous segment is projected to experience the most significant growth owing to the advantages it offers, including reduced delivery times, shorter port stays, decreased operating expenses, elimination of accidents caused by human error, and lower freight rates.

Hardware Components Spearhead Growth Due to Increased Adoption

Based on the solution, the market is segmented into hardware and software. The hardware segment dominated the market and is expected to continue its dominance. The growth is primarily driven by the increasing uptake of various hardware components, including sensors, GPS trackers, automated navigation systems, propulsion, auxiliary systems, and other essential elements.

Commercial Sector Takes the Lead due to Rising Tourism and Global Trade

By ship type, the market is classified into commercial and defense. The commercial segment is divided into bulk carriers, tankers, dry cargo, and containers. In 2022, the commercial segment claimed the largest market share, driven by the surge in tourism activities and the expansion of international seaborne trade. The International Chamber of Shipping reported that the global shipping industry's annual trade value reached a staggering USD 14 trillion in 2019.

Line Segment Dominates Owing to Increasing Investments

By end-user, the market is segmented into line fit and retrofit. In 2022, the line fit segment emerged as the frontrunner, capturing the largest autonomous ships market share. The remarkable growth of this segment can be attributed to two key factors: the increasing investments made by naval defense forces and the thriving international maritime trade.

From the regional ground, the market is segmented into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, and Rest of the World.

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Report Coverage



The comprehensive market analysis report offers a meticulous examination of key factors, including prominent fleet companies, diverse vessel types, innovative solutions, and major application areas. It provides valuable insights into prevailing market trends and highlights noteworthy industry advancements. Furthermore, the report delves into various direct and indirect factors that have exerted a significant influence on the market's growth trajectory in recent times.

Drivers and Restraints

Technological Advancements Drive Market Expansion: Increasing Investments Fuel Growth

The market is experiencing accelerated growth due to the rising investments made by several countries in high technology. For example, in October 2019, South Korea invested a substantial USD 130 million in an autonomous ship project. This initiative focuses on developing an intelligent navigation system, collision and accident prevention capabilities, and an integrated platform for system management, decision-making, and situational awareness.

However, digitization and automation has increased chances of cyberattacks and may pose challenges to the autonomous ships market growth.

Regional Insights

Asia Pacific Drives Growth Due to Rapid Economic Development and Maritime Trade

In 2022, Asia Pacific emerged as the dominant force in the market, capturing the largest market share. This remarkable growth can be attributed to the region's rapid economic development and the thriving maritime trade activities. The expanding economies and increasing trade volumes in countries across Asia Pacific contribute to the region's market dominance.

North America is experiencing significant growth in the market, fueled by the escalating investments made towards the development of advanced commercial and defense vessels.

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Detailed Table of Content:

Introduction Research Scope Market Segmentation Research Methodology Definitions and Assumptions

Executive Summary

Market Dynamics Market Drivers Market Restraints Market Opportunities

Key Insights Key Industry Developments  Mergers, Acquisitions and Partnerships Latest technological Advancements Porters Five Forces Analysis Supply Chain Analysis Impact of COVID-19 on Global Autonomous Ships Market Impact of Russia-Ukraine War on Global Autonomous Ships Market

Global Autonomous Ships Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2030 Key Findings / Definitions Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast  By Autonomy Partial Automation Remotely Operated Fully Autonomous Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast  By Solution Hardware Software Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast  By Ship Type Commercial Bulk Carriers Tankers Dry Cargo Containers Others Defense Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast  By End User Line Fit Retrofit Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast  By Region North America Europe Asia Pacific Rest of the world

North America Autonomous Ships Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2030 Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast  By Autonomy Partial Automation Remotely Operated Fully Autonomous Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast  By Solution Hardware Software Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast  By Ship Type Commercial Bulk Carriers Tankers Dry Cargo Containers Others Defense Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast  By End User Line Fit Retrofit Market Analysis  By Country U.S. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast  By End User Line Fit Retrofit Canada Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast  By End User Line Fit Retrofit



TOC Continued!

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Competitive Landscape

Industry Players Drive Business Expansion with Next-Generation Ships and Systems

The key players operating in the market prioritize business expansion through the development of next-generation ships and advanced systems. In October 2022, Kongsberg Maritime, a prominent player in the market, made a significant announcement regarding a supply contract. The company was awarded the contract for the HUGIN Endurance Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (AUV) system, collaborating with an undisclosed partner.

Key Industry Development

February 2022: Kongsberg Maritime was awarded a contract by Holland Shipyards Group to electrify and automate new ferries. Under the contract, Kongsberg Maritime will supply electrification and control systems with automated functions for up to four new all-electric ferries.

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Aero Wing Market Size to grow USD 20.35 billion in 2028 with exhibiting a CAGR of 8.98%

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Pune, India, Aug. 29, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The global naval actuators and valves market size was valued at USD 2.69 billion in 2022 and is projected to grow from USD 2.55 billion in 2023 to USD 3.80 billion by 2030, exhibiting a CAGR of 5.84% during the forecast period. Naval actuators and valves are used in a wide variety of naval systems, including auxiliary systems, safety systems, and navigation systems. Naval valves are used to direct, control, and regulate the flow of various types of steam, liquids, gas, and all fluids. Different valve types are used depending on the customer's specific application. These valves are fitted with actuators that monitor flow and pressure. This information is provided by Fortune Business Insights, in its report titled, Naval Actuators and Valves Market, 2023-2030.

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List of Key Players Profiled in the Naval Actuators and Valves Market Report:

MOOG Inc. (U.S.)

Honeywell International Inc. (U.S.)

Rotork plc (U.K.)

Emerson Electric Co. (U.S.)

Curtiss Wright Corporation (U.S.)

Wartsila (Finland)

Rockwell Automation, Inc. (U.S.)

Woodward, Inc (U.S.)

Flowserve Corporation (U.S.)

Schlumberger Ltd (U.S.)

Report Scope & Segmentation:

Report Coverage Details Forecast Period 2023-2030 Forecast CAGR 5.84% 2030 Value Projection USD 3.80 Billion Market Size in 2023 USD 2.55 Billion Historical Data 2019-2021 No. of Pages 150 Report Coverage Revenue Forecast, Company Profiles, Competitive Landscape, Growth Factors and Latest Trends Segments Covered By Platform Analysis

By Type Analysis

By Application Analysis Regions Covered North America

Europe

Asia Pacific

South America

Middle East and Africa Naval Actuators and Valves Market Growth Drivers Increased Adoption of Advanced Naval Vessels around the World to Aid Market Expansion Surging Demand for Naval Fleet by Armed Forces to Drive Market Growth

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Segments:

Others Segment to Dominate Due to Growing Demand and Procurement of Naval Ships

As per platform, the market is arrayed into aircraft carriers, destroyers, frigates, corvettes, offshore patrol vehicles, and others. The others segment held the significant naval actuators and valves market share in 2022. The others segment includes large surface combatant, amphibious warships, small surface combatant, support vessel, and combat logistics force. The growing demand and procurement of these naval ships is leading to the segment growth.

Linear Actuators Segment to Lead Backed by their Reliability and Simplicity

According to type, the market is divided into linear actuators and rotary actuators. The linear actuators segment dominated the market in 2022. Linear actuators are easy to operate and are constructed in a simple manner, making them ideal for several applications. This is contributing to their demand and driving the segment proliferation.

High Demand for Carrier Flight Deck Operations to Drive Segment Expansion

By application, the market is arrayed into propulsion system valve control, weapon handling & release system, carrier flight deck operations, radar deployment operations, navigation system, and others. The carrier flight deck operations segment led the market in 2022 and is projected to grow in the forthcoming years. Carrier flight deck operations are built into many cargo and naval ships and require naval valves and actuators support to function properly, thus boosting segment growth.

Geographically, the market is segregated into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, and the rest of the world.

Russia-Ukraine War Impact:

War Impacted the Shipping Industry Affecting the Market Growth

The Russia Ukraine war impacted the shipping sector of Ukraine. Closure of ports led to disruptions in the supply chains in Europe. This led to food crisis due to lack of maritime logistics and connectivity.

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Report Coverage:

The report makes inclusion of:

Drivers, restraints, threats, and challenges affecting market trends

List of key industry players

Key developments undertaken by leading companies to boost profits

Impact of Russia-Ukraine war on market valuation and growth

Crucial insights into growth trends of each segment and region.

Drivers and Restraints:

Rising Adoption of Advanced Naval Vessels Worldwide to Boost Market Proliferation

Naval actuators and valves are extensively used in naval vessels to efficiently operate in a variety of systems aboard ships such as navigation system, weapon release system, and hydraulic system. Moreover, rising focus on research and development along with government support is also attributing to the naval actuators and valves market growth.

In April 2020, Kratos Defense and Security Solutions, Inc., a leading national security solutions provider, announced that its Kratos Unmanned Systems Division (KUSD) has been selected to participate in an open-ended, multi-entry contract. With a maximum contract amount of USD 982.1 million for all of its IDIQ-MAC orders, the government aims to maintain, support, and modernize USV subsystems and systems to meet the Program Executive Agency's future and current unmanned maritime systems operational requirements.

On the other hand, high maintenance costs and delays in maintenance will pose as challenges for businesses operating in this domain.

Regional Insights:

North America to Hold Largest Share Backed by Rising Reliance on Maritime Transport

North America is anticipated to dominate the market from 2023 to 2030. The major factors behind the market growth in North America are increasing manufacturing of defense and merchant and cargo ships, growing reliance on domestic and international maritime transport, and investment in naval forces.

Moreover, Asia Pacific is expected to be the fastest growing region in the market during the forecast period. The use of maritime transport for trade and the need for efficient maritime transport are factors driving the market in Asia Pacific.

The Europe market is expected to grow moderately due to increasing demand for commercial and naval ships in countries such as the U.K., France, and Germany. Most companies operating in the region are focused on developing low-cost, advanced autonomous actuators and valves with advanced capabilities.

Competitive Landscape:

Contracts between Industry Leaders to Propel Market Augmentation

Tactical developments are often used by leading players to earn higher profits and revenues and improve geographical reach. For instance, in April 2022, Triumph was awarded a multi-year contract to manufacture control systems and actuators for the U.S. Navy's Jammer Mid-Band (NGJ-MB) pods. The contract, signed by Raytheon Intelligence & Space, covers the production needs of Low-Rate Initial Production (LRIP) Lot I and II.

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Detailed Table of Contents:

Introduction Research Scope Market Segmentation Research Methodology Definitions and Assumptions

Executive Summary

Market Dynamics Market Drivers Market Restraints Market Opportunities

Key Insights Key Industry Developments  Key Contracts & Agreements, Mergers, Acquisitions and Partnerships Latest technological Advancements Porters Five Forces Analysis Supply Chain Analysis Impact of Russia-Ukraine on Global Naval Actuators and Valves

Global Naval Actuators and Valves Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2030 Key Findings / Definitions Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast  By Platform Aircraft Carriers Destroyers Frigates Corvettes Offshore Patrol Vehicles Others Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast  By Type Linear Actuators Rotary Actuators Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast  By Application Valves & Actuation Propulsion System Valve Control Weapon Handling & Release System Carrier Flight Deck Operations Radar Deployment Operations Navigation System Others Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast  By Region North America Europe Asia Pacific Rest of the World

North America Naval Actuators and Valves Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2030 Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast  By Platform Aircraft Carriers Destroyers Frigates Corvettes Offshore Patrol Vehicles Others Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast  By Type Linear Actuators Rotary Actuators Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast  By Application Valves & Actuation Propulsion System Valve Control Weapon Handling & Release System Carrier Flight Deck Operations Radar Deployment Operations Navigation System Others Market Analysis  By Country U.S Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast  By Application Valves & Actuation Propulsion System Valve Control Weapon Handling & Release System Carrier Flight Deck Operations Radar Deployment Operations Navigation System Others Canada Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast  By Application Valves & Actuation Propulsion System Valve Control Weapon Handling & Release System Carrier Flight Deck Operations Radar Deployment Operations Navigation System Others



TOC Continued...!

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Key Industry Development:

November 2022: Elettronica recently signed a contract to equip two Indonesian Navy 90m offshore patrol vessels with the Navy's Electronic Radar Countermeasure System. An Indonesian shipyard plans to build more of her 90-meter maritime patrol ships for the navy.

Read Related Insights:

Actuators Market to Hit USD 98.92 Billion by 2029 | Rising Industrial Automation to Augment Demand for Actuators

Automotive Actuators Market Size 2021 | Share, Growth, Trends, Analysis, Revenue, Competitive Landscape, Forecast Report 2028

Aircraft Actuator Market to Reach USD 16.98 Billion by 2026 | Aircraft Actuator Industry Trends, Qualitative Analysis, Dynamics, Key Insights, Competitive Analysis, Top Manufacturers by Fortune Business Insights

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Pune, India, Aug. 29, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The global weather radar market size was valued at USD 117.29 million in 2022 and is expected to grow from USD 136.28 million in 2023 to USD 486 million by 2030, exhibiting a CAGR of 19.9% during the forecast period. Due to the soaring fluctuations in natural calamities such as cyclones, ice storms, snowstorms, and thunderstorms are likely to propel the demand for the product.



Fortune Business Insights shares this information in its report titled Global Weather Radar Market, 2023-2030.

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List of Key Players Profiled in the Weather Radar Market Report:

Collins Aerospace (U.S.)

Honeywell International Inc. (U.S.)

EWR Radar Systems Inc. (U.S.)

Enterprise Electronics Corporation (U.S.)

LEONARDO Germany GmbH (Germany)

Beijing Minstar Radar Co., Ltd. (China)

Vaisala Oyj (Finland)

GAMIC mbH (Germany)

FURUNO ELECTRIC CO., LTD. (Japan)

Telephonics Corporation (U.S.)

Report Scope & Segmentation:

Report Coverage Details Forecast Period 2023-2030 Forecast CAGR 19.9% 2030 Value Projection USD 486 Million Market Size in 2023 USD 136.28 Million Historical Data 2019-2021 No. of Pages 200 Report Coverage Revenue Forecast, Company Profiles, Competitive Landscape, Growth Factors and Latest Trends Segments Covered By Platform

By Component

By Frequency

By Application Regions Covered North America

Europe

Asia Pacific

Latin America

Middle East and Africa Weather Radar Market Growth Drivers Rising Frequency and Severity of Natural Calamities is expected to catalyze the Market Growth Increasing Government Investments Projected to Boost the Growth of the Market

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COVID-19 Impact:

Raw Material Procurement Hindrances Impacted Market Progress

The swift spread of the COVID-19 pandemic had inflicted severe undesirable impacts on the global weather radar market growth. The raw material procurement hindrances, border closures, and supply chain disruptions due to stringent lockdowns and curfews affected the demand for the product. Declined revenues and profit margins due to closed production plants worsened the situation. However, key players implemented cloud-based solutions to reduce risks of infection spread and continue their operations.

Segmentation:

Land-based Radars Segment to Lead Owing to its Rising Demand for Weather Surveillance Systems

By platform, the market is segmented into land-based and airborne. The Land-based radars segment is expected to lead due to its rising demand for weather surveillance systems for disaster management.

X-band Radar To Lead Due to Rise in the Demand for Compact And Precision Radars

By frequency, market of segmented as C-Band, S-Band, X-Band, and others. X-band radar has dominates the segment and it is also set to fastest growing due to rise in the demand for compact and precision radars. S-band radar is also anticipated to grow at a significant rate due to increasing rate of adoption of long-range weather surveillance radars.

Antenna Segment to Lead Attributable to Development of old Weather Surveillance Radars

As per component, the market is categorized into antenna, receiver, display, transmitter, and others. The Antenna segment is expected to maintain its leadership due to its modernization and development of old weather surveillance radars.

Military Segment to Dominate Due to high demand for Military Aircrafts

According to application, the market is categorized into meteorology & hydrology, aviation industry and military. The military segment is estimated to gain traction due to high demand for weather surveillance and monitoring for military aircrafts.

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Report Coverage:

The report provides a detailed analysis of the top segments and the latest trends in the market. It comprehensively discusses the driving and restraining factors and the impact of COVID-19 on the market. Additionally, it examines the regional developments and the strategies undertaken by the market's key players.

Drivers and Restraints:

Growing Need for Weather Radars Systems to Foster Industry Growth

The growing need for weather radar systems in assisting and predicting severe weather conditions accurately to provide public safety and supporting local economies are likely to fuel market progress. The Emergency Event Database, In March 202s3, noted 387 natural disasters affecting 185 million individuals and leading to the loss of 30,704 lives, with economic losses totaling approximately USD 223.8 Billion. However, high calibration cost of the product may hinder weather radar market progress.

Regional Insights:

Increasing Demand for Commercial and Military Aircrafts to Propel Market Progress in North America

North America is expected to dominate the weather radars systems market share due to the increasing demand for commercial and military aircrafts. The market in North America stood at USD 37.84 million in 2022 and is expected to gain a huge portion in the coming years. Furthermore, presence of major OEMs in the region is likely to facilitate industry growth.

In Asia Pacific, growing research activities in meteorology and hydrology is expected to foster the demand for immunology. Furthermore, the increasing approvals and launch initiatives by key players is expected to fuel market growth.

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Detailed Table of Content:

Introduction Research Scope Market Segmentation Research Methodology Definitions and Assumptions

Executive Summary

Market Dynamics Market Drivers Market Restraints Market Opportunities

Key Insights Key Industry Developments  Key Contracts & Agreements, Mergers, Acquisitions and Partnerships Latest technological Advancements Porters Five Forces Analysis Supply Chain Analysis Quantitative Insights - Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic on Global Weather Radar Market

Global Weather Radar Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2030 Key Findings / Definition Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast  By Platform Land-Based Airborne Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast  By Component Transmitter Antenna Receiver Display Others Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast  By Frequency Band C-Band S-Band X-Band Others Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast  By Application Meteorology & Hydrology Aviation Industry Military Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast  By Region North America Europe Asia-pacific Rest of the World



TOC Continued...!

Competitive Landscape:

Prominent Industrial Giants Complete Acquisitions to Reinforce their Product Offerings

The prominent companies such as Honeywell International Inc., EWR Radar Systems Inc., Enterprise Electronics Corporation, LEONARDO Germany GmbH, Collins Aerospace, and other operating in the market deploy acquisitions to enhance their product offerings. To supply weather surveillance radars in regions including the Asia-Pacific, Europe and Middle East, and America, LEONARDO Germany GmbH, signed multiple contracts to supply weather surveillance radars.

Key Industry Development:

January 2023- In the next two to three years, the Indian government announced its plans to add 25 more radars.

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Read Related Insights:

With 25.14% CAGR, Connected Aircraft Market to Hit USD 16.58 Billion by 2029 | Fortune Business Insights

Airborne Surveillance Market to Hit USD 7.70 Billion by 2028; Increased Adoption by Intelligence Agencies to Augment Industry Growth, Says Fortune Business Insights

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Geneva, Aug. 29, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Agreement reached over short-term financing of CHF 20 million  to be replaced by the proceeds of a CHF 25 million convertible bond

Ongoing commitment to provide further financial resources to fund GAMs operations as a going concern

EGM to be held or on around 27 September 2023

GAMs board to propose shareholders to approve the appointment of new directors proposed by NewGAMe and stand down once they are elected

The investor group comprised of NewGAMe SA and Bruellan SA, which controls approximately 9.6% of the issued share capital of GAM Holding AG [GAM:SWX] (GAM), announces the conclusion of successful discussions with GAM. It has been agreed that Rock Investment SAS (Rock), the controlling shareholder of NewGAMe, will provide short-term financing of CHF 20 million to GAM to cover the companys immediate liquidity needs. The short-term financing will be replaced by the proceeds of a convertible bond to be issued by GAM in the amount of CHF 25 million, subject to approval of shareholders at an EGM to be held on or around 27 September 2023. Both NewGAMe and Rock have also confirmed to GAM their intention to secure sufficient financial resources to fund GAMs operations as a going concern.

At the EGM, shareholders will also be asked to vote on the appointment of new directors proposed by NewGAMe. The current GAM board will propose that shareholders approve the election of NewGAMes candidates and has agreed to stand down once NewGAMes directors have been elected. NewGAMe plans to announce its candidate for CEO of GAM over the coming days.

It has been agreed that NewGAMes leadership team will visit GAMs offices in London and Zurich to meet with employees.

Antoine Spillmann, CEO and Partner at Bruellan and the investor group's proposed candidate for chairman of GAM's board, said:

"As a result of our productive discussions with GAMs board and management over the past few days, we have a clear path forward. We have agreed to provide immediate funding of CHF 20 million and committed to secure additional financial resources to fund GAMs operations. We welcome GAMs decision to support our proposed directors and the agreement of the current board to step down once our candidates have been elected. Today is a pivotal step in the turnaround and enhancement of one of the industry's iconic asset management firms. We are excited by the opportunities that lie ahead and look forward to meeting with GAMs portfolio managers and client facing teams in Zurich and London today, as well as in other locations in the coming days.
Dublin, Aug. 29, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Education Microscope Global Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis, 2023-2030" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.

The global education microscope market is expected to reach USD 573.9 million by 2030, with a projected Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 5.29% from 2023 to 2030. Several trends, drivers, and opportunities are shaping the dynamics of this market.

Market Drivers and Opportunities

Emphasis on STEM Education: The increasing focus on Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education is driving the growth of the education microscope market. The demand for advanced microscopy tools in educational institutions to enhance STEM learning experiences is contributing to market expansion.

The increasing focus on Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education is driving the growth of the education microscope market. The demand for advanced microscopy tools in educational institutions to enhance STEM learning experiences is contributing to market expansion. Enhanced Funding for Education: The market is benefiting from enhanced funding for education by governments and organizations. Initiatives like the funding provided by the Arnold and Mabel Beckman Foundation for advanced light sheet microscopes and other research activities are boosting the adoption of education microscopes.

The market is benefiting from enhanced funding for education by governments and organizations. Initiatives like the funding provided by the Arnold and Mabel Beckman Foundation for advanced light sheet microscopes and other research activities are boosting the adoption of education microscopes. Government Initiatives: Government initiatives to provide access to advanced technologies in schools are propelling market growth. Programs and grants aimed at improving science education quality and practical learning experiences are driving the demand for education microscopes.

Government initiatives to provide access to advanced technologies in schools are propelling market growth. Programs and grants aimed at improving science education quality and practical learning experiences are driving the demand for education microscopes. Shift Towards Virtual Learning: The COVID-19 pandemic impacted the education microscope market by temporarily closing academic institutions. However, this situation has led to a shift towards online education and virtual learning tools, including virtual microscopes, to enhance STEM education remotely.

Market Segments

Optical Microscopes: The optical microscope segment dominated the market with around 90% market share in 2022. The high adoption of optical microscopes, including upright and stereo optical microscopes, is a significant driver in this segment.

Regional Analysis

North America: North America held the largest market share of around 35% in terms of revenue in 2022. The region's focus on research and academic funding, as well as an emphasis on providing STEM education, contribute to its leadership in the market.

Market Landscape

Competitive Landscape: The education microscope market is fragmented, with both local and global players competing for market share. Companies like AmScope, OMAX, and Motic Microscope offer a wide range of products tailored to the needs of end customers.

Future Trends

Hands-on and Practical Training: Universities and high schools are increasingly focusing on hands-on and practical training methods, driving the demand for education microscopes. This trend aligns with the growing emphasis on STEM education.

Universities and high schools are increasingly focusing on hands-on and practical training methods, driving the demand for education microscopes. This trend aligns with the growing emphasis on STEM education. AR and VR Integration: Technological advancements are expected to introduce Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) technologies to education microscopes, enhancing the learning experience and opening up new growth opportunities.

In Conclusion

The global education microscope market is poised for growth due to factors like the emphasis on STEM education, enhanced funding, government initiatives, and the integration of advanced technologies. Optical microscopes are the dominant segment, and North America leads in terms of market share. As educational institutions continue to prioritize practical training and leverage technology for learning, the education microscope market is expected to thrive in the coming years.

Key Attributes

Report Attribute Details No. of Pages 108 Forecast Period 2022-2030 Estimated Market Value (USD) in 2022 $380.3 Million Forecasted Market Value (USD) by 2030 $573.9 Million Compound Annual Growth Rate 5.2% Regions Covered Global

Market Dynamics



Drivers Increasing Emphasis on STEM Learning Adoption of Advanced Microscope by the Academic Institutions Enhanced Funding for Education by Various Government and Other Organizations

Restraints High Prices of Advanced Microscope Adverse Impacts of COVID-19 Pandemic



Companies Mentioned

Thermo Fisher Scientific, Inc.

JEOL Ltd.

Bruker Corporation

Zeiss Group

Nikon Corporation

Olympus Corporation

Leica Microsystem (Danaher Corporation)

OPTIKA

AmScope

Dino-Lite

Jenoptik

Meiji Techno

Motic Microscope

National Optical

Key Topics Covered



Chapter 1. Methodology and Scope

Chapter 2. Executive Summary

Chapter 3. Market Variables, Trends, & Scope

Chapter 4. Education Microscope Market: Type Estimates & Trend Analysis

Chapter 5. Education Microscope Market: Regional Estimates & Trend Analysis

Chapter 6. Competitive Landscape

Chapter 7. Recommendations/Key Market Insights



For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/rinjmx

About ResearchAndMarkets.com

ResearchAndMarkets.com is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends.

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Wilmington, Delaware, United States, Aug. 29, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The global pyrogen testing market is projected to flourish at a CAGR of 12.2% from 2019 to 2027. As per the report published by TMR, a valuation of US$ 2051.2 million is anticipated for the market in 2027. As of 2023, the market for pyrogen testing is expected to close at US$ 1319.3 million.



The increasing research and development activities in the pharmaceutical and biotechnology sectors lead to the development of new drugs and medical devices, driving the need for pyrogen testing during product development.

The increasing emphasis on quality assurance in pharmaceutical and medical device manufacturing drives the need for accurate and reliable pyrogen testing methods to identify potential sources of contamination.

The increasing healthcare spending and rapid expansion of healthcare infrastructure, especially in emerging economies, increase the demand for pyrogen testing as healthcare facilities require safe and effective pharmaceuticals and medical devices.

The increasing application of pyrogen testing in pharmaceutical, biotechnology, and medical devices companies and extensive research in and launch of new biologics are likely to speed up the growth of the pyrogen testing market during the forecast period.

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Market Snapshot:

Report Coverage Details Market Revenue US$ 742.0 Mn Estimated Value US$ 2051.2 Mn Growth Rate - CAGR 12.2% Forecast Period 2023-2031 No. of Pages 250 Pages Market Segmentation By Test Type, Component, End-user, Region Regions Covered North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East & Africa, South America Companies Covered Thermo Fisher Scientific, Inc., Associates of Cape Cod, Inc., Merck KGaA, Charles River Laboratories International, Inc., GenScript, Lonza Group, Sanquin, and, WuXi AppTec, Hyglos GmbH - a bioMerieux Company , Wako Chemicals USA, Inc. among others

Key Takeaways from the Market Study

As of 2022, the pyrogen testing market was valued at US$ 1175.9million

By test type, the rabbit pyrogen test segment to enjoy high demand, accumulating a high revenue share during the forecast period, as it is a traditional method

Based on components, the kits segment is anticipated to dominate the industry during the forecast period

Based on end-users, the pharmaceutical companies segment is expected to generate high revenue during the forecast period, due to the increased demand in

Pyrogen Testing Market: Key Trends and Opportunistic Frontiers

The increasing global burden of disease and associated rise in the patient pool ratio call for growth in demand for pyrogen testing as key manufacturers continue to manufacture new drugs. This is expected to drive the pyrogen testing systems market.

Increasing technological advancements in pyrogen testing methods, such as the development of recombinant Factor C (rFC) assays and monocyte activation tests (MAT), enhance the accuracy, sensitivity, and efficiency of testing.

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PyrogenTesting Market- Regional Analysis

North America is a significant market for pyrogen testing due to the increased rate of approvals by the FDA regulatory body leads to more product launches. The presence of major pharmaceutical companies and contract research organizations (CROs) further contributes to the growth of the pyrogen testing market in the region.

Asia Pacific is expected to account for a significant market share in the pyrogen testing market. The region's expanding pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries, coupled with increasing investments in healthcare infrastructure, have contributed to the demand for pyrogen testing services. Growing awareness of patient safety and the need for compliance with international standards have further boosted the adoption of pyrogen testing.

Competitive Landscape

The global pyrogen testing market is fragmented, with the presence of a small number of leading players. The leading players in the market are investing in new product development, mergers, and acquisitions to gain a competitive edge. Leading players operating in the global pyrogen testing industry are

Thermo Fisher Scientific, Inc.,

Associates of Cape Cod, Inc.,

Merck KGaA,

Charles River Laboratories International, Inc.,

GenScript,

Lonza Group,

Sanquin, and

WuXi AppTec,

Hyglos GmbH - a bioMerieux Company

Wako Chemicals USA, Inc. among others

Key Developments in the Pyrogen Testing Marker

In April 2023 - Associates of Cape Cod, Inc ., a Seikagaku Group Company, announced the launch of a new, innovative, sustainable recombinant LAL reagent, PyroSmart NextGen for Bacterial Endotoxin Testing (BET). The new LAL reagent is sustainably produced using recombinant technology; it is not based on raw materials from animals, unlike traditional LAL reagents which are manufactured using the blood harvested from horseshoe crabs.

., a Seikagaku Group Company, announced the launch of a new, innovative, sustainable recombinant LAL reagent, PyroSmart NextGen for Bacterial Endotoxin Testing (BET). The new LAL reagent is sustainably produced using recombinant technology; it is not based on raw materials from animals, unlike traditional LAL reagents which are manufactured using the blood harvested from horseshoe crabs. In March 2023  Lonza, announced the completion of its planned cGMP clinical and commercial drug product manufacturing line in Visp (CH).

 Lonza, announced the completion of its planned cGMP clinical and commercial drug product manufacturing line in Visp (CH). Charles River expanded its pyrogen testing services by acquiring Cognate BioServices, a cell and gene therapy contract development and manufacturing organization (CDMO). This acquisition aimed to enhance Charles River's capabilities in providing comprehensive testing solutions for advanced therapies.

expanded its pyrogen testing services by acquiring Cognate BioServices, a cell and gene therapy contract development and manufacturing organization (CDMO). This acquisition aimed to enhance Charles River's capabilities in providing comprehensive testing solutions for advanced therapies. Wako Chemicals USA, a part of FUJIFILM Wako Chemicals, introduced the PYROSTAR ES-F Limulus Amebocyte Lysate (LAL) Test, offering a highly sensitive method for endotoxin detection.

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Pyrogen Testing Market - Key Segments

Test Type

Monocyte Activation Test (MAT)

LAL Test

Rabbit Pyrogen Test

Others

Component

Instruments

Kits

Reagents



End-User

Pharmaceutical Companies

Biotechnology Companies

Medical Device Companies

Others

Region

North America

Europe

Asia Pacific

Latin America

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POTOMAC, Md., Aug. 29, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Castellum, Inc. (NYSE-American: CTM) (Castellum) announces that its Specialty Systems, Inc. subsidiary has been awarded a $3 million, 14-month U.S. Navy contract.



With this contract, Castellum furthers the commitment to its U.S. Navy mission.

This is an important contract award as it will permit us to support our U.S. Navy mission customer by maximizing the readiness of the forces as they address a multitude of global threats, said Mark Fuller , President and Chief Executive Officer of Castellum. We are constantly looking for opportunities to leverage our expertise and past performance by creating new ways to support the national security imperatives of all the Castellum mission customers.

About Castellum, Inc.

Castellum, Inc. (NYSE-American: CTM) is a defense-oriented technology company, which is executing strategic acquisitions in the cyber security, information technology and software, information warfare, and electronic warfare and engineering services space - http://castellumus.com/

Forward-Looking Statements:

This release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. These forward-looking statements represent the Companys expectations or beliefs concerning future events and can generally be identified by the use of statements that include words such as estimate, project, believe, anticipate, shooting to, intend, plan, foresee, likely, will, would, appears, goal, target or similar words or phrases. Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements regarding the Companys expectations for revenue growth and new customer opportunities, improvements to cost structure, and profitability. These forward-looking statements are subject to risks, uncertainties, and other factors, many of which are outside of the Companys control, that could cause actual results to differ materially from the results expressed or implied in the forward-looking statements, including, among others: the Companys ability to compete against new and existing competitors; its ability to effectively integrate and grow its acquired companies; its ability to identify additional acquisition targets and close additional acquisitions; the impact on the Companys revenue due to a delay in the U.S. Congress approving a federal budget; and the Companys ability to maintain the listing of its common stock on the NYSE American LLC. For a more detailed description of these and other risk factors, please refer to the Companys Annual Report on Form 10-K and its Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) which can be viewed at www.sec.gov. All forward-looking statements are inherently uncertain, based on current expectations and assumptions concerning future events or future performance of the Company. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which are only predictions and speak only as of the date hereof. The Company expressly disclaims any intent or obligation to update any of the forward-looking statements made in this release or in any of its SEC filings except as may be otherwise stated by the Company.

Contact:

Mark Fuller

President and Chief Executive Officer

Contact: info@castellumus.com

Phone: (301) 961-4895
Dublin, Aug. 29, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "U.S. Military Animals Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report By Animal Type (Dogs, Cats), By Service Type (Sentry, Casualty), By Sector (Army, Navy, Marine, Air Force), And Segment Forecasts, 2023 - 2030" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.

Set to achieve remarkable growth, the U.S. military animals market size is projected to attain USD 67.35 million by the year 2030, exhibiting a notable Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 7.61% during the period from 2023 to 2030.

This upward trajectory is driven by a rising demand for military working dogs and an augmented focus on internal and external security threats. With their specialized skills, these dogs contribute significantly to tasks such as drug, weapons, bomb detection, and identifying hostile personnel.

Aiming for precision and tailored expertise, current training practices have led to the segmentation of roles for these loyal companions, ensuring heightened efficiency and effectiveness in military operations. Additionally, according to the Department of Defence (DOD), 13% of canine recruits are born and raised in the American military due to the DOD Military Working Dog Breeding Program.

The rest are acquired from top breeders throughout the world. Every year, between 50 and 90 puppies are born into this program. Military working dogs, or MWDs, put in a lot of effort every day to serve in a variety of capacities for the military, including explosive detection, tracking, search & rescue, and more.



It has been common since ancient times to use animals in battle to raise courage and aid in communications or surveillance. Pigeons, sea lions, bats, cats, insects, chickens, camels, rats, dolphins, pigs, horses, and even elephants have all been utilized historically. The dog, considered to be man's best friend, has served in the military around the world for the longest of all of these animals, but some of them are still in use today.

Due to their keen senses and unwavering loyalty, dogs are invaluable companions for soldiers navigating dangerous and unpredictable conflict zones. Belgian Malinois or German Shepherds make up the majority of military canines. However, these aren't the only breeds that can serve in the military. Among the most popular breeds, Labradors, Doberman Pinschers, Giant Schnauzers, Sheepdogs, and Collies have all performed bravely in the past.



U.S. Military Animals Market Report Highlights

By animal type, the dog segment dominated the market in 2022 and is expected to witness a lucrative CAGR during the forecast period

Based on service type, the scout/patrol search segment dominated the market in 2022, and the sentry segment is expected to witness lucrative CAGR during the forecast period

By sector, the army dominated the market in 2022 and is expected to witness a lucrative CAGR during the forecast period.

The army is in charge of protecting the whole landmass of the United States, as well as its holdings, commonwealths, and overseas territories

Key Attributes:

Report Attribute Details No. of Pages 100 Forecast Period 2022 - 2030 Estimated Market Value (USD) in 2022 $37.96 million Forecasted Market Value (USD) by 2030 $67.35 million Compound Annual Growth Rate 7.6% Regions Covered United States

Market Dynamics

Market Driver Analysis

Increasing demand for military working dogs

Increasing spending on military working dogs

Increasing internal and external security threats

Market Restraint Analysis

High cost of training

Market Opportunity Analysis

Market Challenge Analysis

U.S. Military Animals Market Analysis Tools

Industry Analysis - Porter's

PESTEL Analysis

Estimated Number of Military Working Dogs (MWD) in the U.S., 2017 - 2022

COVID-19 Impact Analysis

Competitive Landscape

Participant's Overview

Service Benchmarking

Financial Performance

Strategic Initiatives

Participant Categorization

Heat Map Analysis/ Company Market Position Analysis

Strategy Mapping

Key Company Profiles

Pond & Copany

Shultz K9 Enforcement Inc

K9 Partners for Patriots

ExcelsiorK9

TWG Group

Us K9 Unlimited

Worldwide Canine

Cobra Canine

K2 Solutions, Inc

Scope of the Report



Animal Type Estimates & Trend Analysis

Dogs

German Shepherds

Belgian Malinois

Retrievers

Cats

Service Type Estimates & Trend Analysis

Scout/Patrol Search

Sentry

Casualty

Explosive Detection

Narcotic Detection

Sector Estimates & Trend Analysis

Army

Air Force

Marine

Navy

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/djf87v

About ResearchAndMarkets.com

ResearchAndMarkets.com is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends.

Attachment
Hole 23FP002 includes 160 metres at 1.79 g/t gold including 68 metres at 2.09 g/t gold



Long, continuous bulk tonnage style of gold mineralization in intrusive-hosted gold system

Hole drilled at new Fazenda do Posto target, located 150 metres west of Butia Gold Deposit

Blind gold discovery with no surface expression of mineralization opens up new exploration potential

Two drill rigs now in area following up

TORONTO, Aug. 29, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Good, old-fashioned boots on the ground field exploration has yielded a potentially game-changing discovery for Lavras Gold Corp. (TSXV: LGC, OTCQB: LGCFF). Drilling at the new Fazenda do Posto discovery on the Companys LDS Project in southern Brazil has returned assay results with remarkably continuous mineralization of 340 metres grading 1.09 g/t gold from 117 metres including:



160 metres grading 1.79 g/t gold from 199 metres including 27 metres grading 2.07 g/t gold from 208 metres 68 metres grading 2.09 g/t gold from 293 metres.





including

Drill hole 23FP002 was collared roughly 150 metres west of the Butia Gold Deposit, which has an NI 43-101 gold resource (see details below) of approximately 500,000 ounces.

The hole tested a blind target with no obvious signs of surface mineralization in an area of recessive topography across an interpreted northeast trending fault. The hole was drilled north on a 020 degree azimuth and a dip of 060 degrees.

This new discovery on our Fazenda do Posto claim block is a potential game changer for Lavras Gold, said Michael Durose, Lavras Golds President and CEO. It is remarkable that we have discovered a long, continuous bulk-tonnage disseminated style of gold mineralization in this intrusive-hosted gold system only 150 metres from the western edge of the Butia Gold Deposit.

This is a blind gold discovery associated with an interpreted down-dropped block of rock across a northeast trending fault. The discovery was made by good old-fashioned field geology with boots on the ground.

Congratulations to our entire team in Brazil for this excellent outcome. We have two drill rigs in this target area and will vigorously follow up with the goal of fast-tracking the process of defining the geometry and grade distribution of this important new discovery.





Learn more about these exploration results during a webinar August 30

Join CEO Michael Durose for an exploration webinar on August 30, 2023 at 11:00 am ET. Click the following link to register now:

https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZIlcu-urjsrGtKLZEqTwTS2MVOIL-W4JY9G

Discussion of drilling results

The Fazenda do Posto discovery is located along the western edge of the Lavras do Sul intrusive complex approximately 4.7 kilometres southwest of the town of Lavras do Sul (Figure 1). Drill hole 23FP002 was collared about 150 metres west of the Butia Gold Deposit (Figure 2) in an area of recessive topography.

A BLIND DISCOVERY

There is no obvious surface expression of this gold discovery. A surface gold-in-soil anomaly occurs immediately to the east of Fazenda do Posto and is associated with the Butia Gold Deposit (see Figure 3).

Butia hosts an NI 43-101 compliant near-surface gold resource of about 500,000 ounces, as detailed in the NI 43-101 Technical Report Mineral Resource for Butia Gold Prospect dated and effective January 25, 2022. The report was prepared by VMG Consultoria e Solucoes Ltda. for Lavras Gold Corp. and is available on the Companys website and www.sedar.com under Lavras Golds issuer profile.

The area where drill hole 23FP002 was collared was previously interpreted to be outside of the favourable rocks hosting the Lavras do Sul gold deposits in the Fazenda do Posto granodiorites.

However, a reinterpretation of the previous drill hole information from the Butia Gold Deposit, combined with field observations that the area west of Butia was associated with recessive topography, and possibly related to a zone of hydrothermal alteration that was causing this recessive feature was the reason to test this target.

Further interpretation suggested that there was a northeast trending fault, and that it was possibly related to major crustal-scale structures known in the district. This interpretation was reaffirmed by a drone aeromagenetic survey that Lavras Gold completed in the area.

Drill hole 23FP002 was collared with an azimuth of north 020 and an inclined angle of 060 degrees. A cross section looking west at 23FP002 is shown in Figure 4. The hole encountered 114 metres of overlying cover rock interpreted to be the Fazenda do Posto granodiorite. The bottom of this granodiorite appears to be silicified or albitized. This alteration has almost completely replaced the original quartz and feldspar minerals in the granodiorite (see Figure 5). There is virtually no gold detected in this rock which may be acting as a cap and thereby masking any gold anomalism at surface. The hole then enters a long continuous interval of gold-mineralized red-brick coloured episyenite from 114 metres to 431 metres (Figure 6), with smaller intervals of moderately mineralized perthitic granite. This is followed by mineralized perthitic granite from 431 metres to 453 metres, and then unmineralized perthitic granite to the bottom of the hole at 465 metres.

The highlights of drill hole 23FP002 gold assay results are 340 metres grading 1.09 g/t gold from 117 metres including:

160 metres grading 1.79 g/t gold from 199 metres including 27 metres grading 2.07 g/t gold from 208 metres 68 metres grading 2.09 g/t gold from 293 metres.





including

The gold mineralization is hosted in a brick-red coloured hydrothermally altered intrusive rock called episyenite, which consists of approximately 95% potassium feldspar, 1-3% black iron-rich chlorite, 1-2% millimetre-scale grey-white carbonate vesicles, and 1-3% very fine-grained to fine grained disseminated and framboidal pyrite and arsenian pyrite.





These disseminated sulphides are intimately associated with black clots of iron-rich chlorite that occurs in the matrix to the feldspar minerals.

Significantly, there is no visible quartz in the episyenite, as the rocks are silica undersaturated and the alteration is interpreted to be of alkaline affinity.





Locally, larger cubic pyrite creates a framboidal texture. Occasional, cross-cutting millimetre tocentimetre scale sulphide veinlets result in higher grade gold values typically in the 4 to 6 g/t range (see Figures 7 and 8).

While the entire 340 metre interval is gold mineralized, it is very significant that there are long intervals of bulk-tonnage style higher-grade gold above 2 g/t as highlighted above. These higher-grade intervals suggest the hole may be tracking toward a feeder structure although further drilling is required to confirm this. This new gold discovery is open in all directions.

There are several zones of typically 8 to 10 metres of less than 0.20 g/t material usually associated with intervals of perthitic granite. When these low-grade zones are removed from the analysis, we estimate that the mineralized rock has an average gold grade of 1.35 g/t over 269 metres.

Table 1 tabulates the assay results for the mineralized interval of drill hole 23FP002. Sampling was completed on 1 metre intervals for the entire length of the drill hole. Three 50 gram aliquots were assayed for each 1 metre sample, and the average grade of the three aliquots was used to derive the final gold grade.

Next steps at Fazenda do Posto and Butia

Indications are that a significant gold mineral system is developing at the Fazenda do Posto gold discovery and the adjacent Butia Gold Deposit.

Two drill rigs are on site testing these areas.

The near-term objective is to define the geometry and gold grade distribution of the Fazenda do Posto discovery and possibly look for more blind discoveries. The second objective is to test for extensions to the mineralized footprint of the Butia Gold Deposit.

It is noteworthy that the alteration system and gold-in-soil anomaly at Butia extends for more than 3 kilometres in a southeast-northwest direction, and for greater than 2 kilometres to the north towards the Galvao and Zeca Souza discoveries (Figure 3). It is also noteworthy that Fazenda do Posto has a higher-grade core of mineralization that could materially enhance the overall economics of a potential mining project.

The medium-term goal is to de-risk the Fazenda do Posto discovery and Butia Gold Deposit such that a preliminary economic study defining the general scope of a gold mining project can be prepared.

OVERALL LDS EXPLORATION PROGRAM MARKED BY EXCEPTIONAL SUCCESS

In addition to these positive developments, Lavras Gold has had exceptional exploration success since going public in April 2022. The Caneleira Gold Discovery has been reinterpreted, and new gold mineral systems have been found at Zeca Souza, Galvao, Matilde, Matilde Extension, and Vila Marieta. Although Butia and Fazendo do Posto are developing into the centre of gravity at LDS, the exploration upside on the property is very significant.

Qualified person

Michael Durose, Lavras Golds President and CEO, is a qualified person as defined by NI 43-101. He has reviewed and approved the scientific and technical information contained in this release.

Quality assurance and quality control

For the Fazenda do Posto discovery, sample handling, preparation, and analysis are monitored through the implementation of formal chain-of-custody procedures and quality assurance/quality control programs designed to follow industry best practices.

All drill hole samples in this drilling program consist of split NQ diamond drill core.

Drill core is logged and sampled in a secure facility located in Lavras do Sul, Rio Grande do Sul State, Brazil. Drill core samples for gold assay are cut in half using a diamond saw and submitted to ALS Laboratories Inc. in Goiania, Goias State, Brazil for preparation by crushing to 85% passing 1.0 mm, riffle splitting to obtain 500 g aliquots, and pulverizing to 85% passing 75 microns.

Pulps are shipped to ALS Laboratories Inc. in Lima, Peru and analyzed by a 50 g fire assay and AAS finish. Three 50 g aliquots are taken for samples in the mineralized zone and one aliquot is taken in fresh rocks. The average grade of the three aliquots is used to determine the final grade of the mineralized sample.

Certified standards, non-certified blanks and field duplicates are inserted into the sample stream at regular intervals, so that QA/QC accounted for about 10% of the total samples. Results are routinely evaluated for accuracy, precision, and contamination.

Lavras Gold has been targeting larger intersections of greater than 0.25 g/t gold. Intersections that are lower than this threshold may provide exploration insight and may therefore be disclosed.

About Lavras Gold

Lavras Gold Corp. (TSXV: LGC, OTCQB: LGCFF) is a Canadian exploration company focused on realizing the potential of a multi-million-ounce gold district in southern Brazil. Its Lavras do Sul Project is located in Rio Grande do Sul State, and is primarily an intrusive hosted gold system of possible alkaline affinity. More than 23 gold prospects centred on historic gold workings have been identified on the property, which spans more than 22,000 hectares. Follow Lavras Gold on www.lavrasgold.com, as well as on LinkedIn, Twitter, and YouTube.

Contact information

Michael Durose, President & CEO, or Annemarie Brissenden, Investor Relations

+1-416-844-6284 | investor@lavrasgold.com

DISCLAIMER AND FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of the content of this news release.

This news release contains certain forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Forward-looking information is frequently characterized by words such as plan, expect, project, intend, believe, anticipate, estimate, may, will, would, potential, proposed and other similar words, or statements that certain events or conditions may or will occur. These statements, including those on planned exploration activities and goals, are only objectives and predictions. Forward-looking information is based on the opinions and estimates of management at the date the information is provided, and is subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking information, including the risks and factors that generally affect exploration and the uncertainty of exploration results. For a description of the risks and uncertainties facing the Company and its business, refer to the Companys Managements Discussion and Analysis recently filed under the Companys profile on www.sedar.com. The Company undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking information if circumstances or managements estimates or opinions should change, unless required by law. The reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking information.

FIGURE 1

Location of Fazenda do Posto relative to Butia Gold Deposit, as well as the advanced gold discoveries at the LDS Project.





FIGURE 2

Location of drill hole 23FP002 Relative to Butia Gold Deposit  plan view with assays. Note northeast trending fault. Fazendo do Posto is interpreted to be a down dropped block of mineralized rock on the west side of the fault.





FIGURE 3

Plan view showing gold-in-soil anomalism relative to the Fazenda do Posto discovery and Butia Gold Deposit. Fazenda do Posto is a blind gold discovery located on a down-dropped block to the west of Butia. The gold in soil anomaly measures 4.2 kilometres in a southeast-northwest direction and for more than 1.5 kilometres to the northeast towards the Galvao and Zeca Souza gold targets. Note the isolated gold anomaly about 450 metres to the west of drill hole 23FP002.







FIGURE 4

Cross section of drill hole 23FP002 looking west. The hole intersected 340 metres grading 1.09 g/t gold from 117 metres including 160 metres grading 1.79 g/t gold from 199 metres including 27 metres grading 2.07 g/t gold from 208 metres and 68 metres grading 2.09 g/t gold from 293 metres. Salmon colour is Fazenda do Posto granodiorite, yellow is episyenite, pink is perthitic granite. Note scale at bottom of hole. 1 ppm gold = 1 gram per tonne.





FIGURE 5

Example of albitized and/or silicified Fazenda do Posto granodiorite cover rock from drill hole 23FP002 at 109 metres. The original rock textures have been nearly completely obliterated due to hydrothermal alkalic alteration. Remnant quartz and feldspar phenocrysts are evident. It is postulated that this rock was acting as a barrier or cap masking any surface expression of gold mineralization.





FIGURE 6

Typical example of gold mineralization in episyenite from drill hole 23FP002. The rock consists of 95% brick red potassium feldspar, 2-3% black to dark green iron-rich chlorite, 1-2% grey and white carbonate vesicles, and 1-3% disseminated pyrite and arsenian pyrite. This example is from drill hole 23FP002 from 136 to 137 metres. This interval grades 1.635 g/t gold. The brick red colouration in the feldspar is from iron and barium. Note that the feldspar grain boundaries are sub-rounded to sub-angular reflecting pervasive metasomatic alteration likely from alkaline fluids.





FIGURE 7

Episyenite from drill hole 23FP002 at 158 to 159 metres showing a cross-cutting centimetre scale sulphide veinlet consisting of pyrite, arsenian pyrite, and galena. This 1 metre interval assayed 6.90 g/t gold.





FIGURE 8

Episyenite from drill hole 23FP002 showing millimetre-scale cross-cutting pyrite veinlets and disseminations from an interval of 213 to 214 metres. This 1 metre interval assayed 4.03 g/t gold.





TABLE 1

Summary table of drilling assay results from drill hole 23FP002 on Fazenda do Posto target.

Hole Azimuth

(degrees) Dip

(degrees) End of hole

(metres) From

(metres) To

(metres) Gold interval

(metres) Gold grade

(g/t) Lithology 23FP002 020 -60 464.59 27.00 28.00 1.00 4.580 Granodiorite FP 117.00 118.00 1.00 0.421 Episyenite 118.00 119.00 1.00 0.248 Episyenite 119.00 120.00 1.00 0.695 Episyenite 120.00 121.00 1.00 0.568 Episyenite 121.00 122.00 1.00 0.600 Episyenite 122.00 123.00 1.00 0.517 Episyenite 123.00 124.00 1.00 0.433 Episyenite 124.00 125.00 1.00 0.231 Episyenite 125.00 126.00 1.00 0.253 Episyenite 126.00 127.00 1.00 0.048 Episyenite 127.00 128.00 1.00 0.013 Episyenite 128.00 129.00 1.00 0.299 Episyenite 129.00 130.00 1.00 0.021 Episyenite 130.00 131.00 1.00 0.086 Episyenite 131.00 132.00 1.00 0.068 Episyenite 132.00 133.00 1.00 0.606 Episyenite 133.00 134.00 1.00 0.124 Episyenite 134.00 135.00 1.00 1.047 Episyenite 135.00 136.00 1.00 1.108 Episyenite 136.00 137.00 1.00 1.405 Episyenite 137.00 138.00 1.00 0.543 Episyenite 138.00 139.00 1.00 0.495 Episyenite 139.00 140.00 1.00 0.726 Episyenite 140.00 141.00 1.00 1.253 Episyenite 141.00 142.00 1.00 0.578 Episyenite 142.00 143.00 1.00 1.345 Episyenite 143.00 144.00 1.00 0.691 Episyenite 144.00 145.00 1.00 0.118 Episyenite 145.00 146.00 1.00 1.282 Episyenite 146.00 147.00 1.00 0.290 Episyenite 147.00 148.00 1.00 0.015 Episyenite 148.00 149.00 1.00 0.018 Episyenite 149.00 150.00 1.00 0.081 Episyenite 150.00 151.00 1.00 0.146 Episyenite 151.00 152.00 1.00 0.149 Episyenite 152.00 153.00 1.00 0.158 Episyenite 153.00 154.00 1.00 0.039 Perthitic granite 154.00 155.00 1.00 0.050 Episyenite 155.00 156.00 1.00 0.204 Episyenite 156.00 157.00 1.00 0.256 Episyenite 157.00 158.00 1.00 0.088 Episyenite 158.00 159.00 1.00 7.060 Episyenite 159.00 160.00 1.00 0.626 Episyenite 160.00 161.00 1.00 0.384 Episyenite 161.00 162.00 1.00 0.712 Episyenite 162.00 163.00 1.00 1.008 Episyenite 163.00 164.00 1.00 0.407 Episyenite 164.00 165.00 1.00 1.189 Episyenite 165.00 166.00 1.00 0.985 Episyenite 166.00 167.00 1.00 0.512 Episyenite 167.00 168.00 1.00 0.379 Episyenite 168.00 169.00 1.00 0.058 Perthitic granite 169.00 170.00 1.00 0.012 Perthitic granite 170.00 171.00 1.00 0.007 Perthitic granite 171.00 172.00 1.00 0.000 Perthitic granite 172.00 173.00 1.00 0.006 Perthitic granite 173.00 174.00 1.00 0.049 Perthitic granite 174.00 175.00 1.00 0.103 Perthitic granite 175.00 176.00 1.00 0.537 Perthitic granite 176.00 177.00 1.00 0.195 Perthitic granite 177.00 178.00 1.00 0.000 Perthitic granite 178.00 179.51 1.51 0.022 Perthitic granite 179.51 180.00 0.49 0.115 Episyenite 180.00 181.00 1.00 0.149 Episyenite 181.00 182.00 1.00 0.964 Episyenite 182.00 183.00 1.00 0.869 Episyenite 183.00 184.00 1.00 0.106 Episyenite 184.00 185.00 1.00 0.379 Episyenite 185.00 186.00 1.00 0.114 Episyenite 186.00 187.00 1.00 0.077 Episyenite 187.00 188.00 1.00 0.609 Episyenite 188.00 189.00 1.00 0.512 Episyenite 189.00 190.00 1.00 0.457 Episyenite 190.00 191.00 1.00 0.695 Episyenite 191.00 192.00 1.00 0.408 Episyenite 192.00 193.00 1.00 0.217 Episyenite 193.00 194.00 1.00 0.175 Episyenite 194.00 195.00 1.00 0.113 Episyenite 195.00 196.00 1.00 0.132 Episyenite 196.00 197.00 1.00 0.150 Episyenite 197.00 198.00 1.00 0.189 Episyenite 198.00 199.00 1.00 0.304 Episyenite 199.00 200.00 1.00 1.034 Episyenite 200.00 201.00 1.00 4.570 Episyenite 201.00 202.00 1.00 1.159 Episyenite 202.00 203.00 1.00 1.085 Episyenite 203.00 204.00 1.00 1.383 Episyenite 204.00 205.00 1.00 1.493 Episyenite 205.00 206.25 1.25 2.190 Episyenite 206.25 207.00 0.75 0.980 Episyenite 207.00 208.00 1.00 0.661 Episyenite 208.00 209.00 1.00 1.972 Episyenite 209.00 210.00 1.00 0.992 Episyenite 210.00 211.00 1.00 1.288 Episyenite 211.00 212.00 1.00 2.583 Episyenite 212.00 213.00 1.00 2.643 Episyenite 213.00 214.00 1.00 4.033 Episyenite 214.00 215.00 1.00 0.637 Episyenite 215.00 216.00 1.00 1.532 Episyenite 216.00 217.00 1.00 1.728 Episyenite 217.00 218.00 1.00 1.747 Episyenite 218.00 219.00 1.00 3.167 Episyenite 219.00 220.00 1.00 2.760 Episyenite 220.00 221.00 1.00 2.067 Episyenite 221.00 222.00 1.00 1.680 Episyenite 222.00 223.00 1.00 4.353 Episyenite 223.00 224.00 1.00 3.103 Episyenite 224.00 225.00 1.00 1.528 Episyenite 225.00 226.00 1.00 0.851 Episyenite 226.00 227.00 1.00 3.243 Episyenite 227.00 228.00 1.00 1.777 Episyenite 228.00 229.00 1.00 1.290 Episyenite 229.00 230.00 1.00 1.992 Episyenite 230.00 231.00 1.00 2.667 Episyenite 231.00 232.00 1.00 1.653 Episyenite 232.00 233.00 1.00 2.042 Episyenite 233.00 234.00 1.00 2.170 Episyenite 234.00 235.00 1.00 1.892 Episyenite 235.00 236.00 1.00 1.380 Episyenite 236.00 237.00 1.00 1.495 Episyenite 237.00 238.00 1.00 0.952 Episyenite 238.00 239.00 1.00 1.688 Episyenite 239.00 240.00 1.00 1.673 Episyenite 240.00 241.00 1.00 1.232 Episyenite 241.00 242.00 1.00 1.233 Episyenite 242.00 243.00 1.00 1.942 Episyenite 243.00 244.00 1.00 0.281 Episyenite 244.00 245.00 1.00 1.898 Episyenite 245.00 246.00 1.00 1.863 Episyenite 246.00 247.00 1.00 1.673 Episyenite 247.00 248.00 1.00 1.022 Episyenite 248.00 249.00 1.00 1.202 Episyenite 249.00 250.00 1.00 1.083 Episyenite 250.00 251.00 1.00 1.385 Episyenite 251.00 252.00 1.00 0.938 Episyenite 252.00 253.00 1.00 0.944 Episyenite 253.00 254.00 1.00 0.663 Episyenite 254.00 255.00 1.00 1.672 Episyenite 255.00 256.00 1.00 1.187 Episyenite 256.00 257.00 1.00 2.137 Episyenite 257.00 258.00 1.00 1.537 Episyenite 258.00 259.00 1.00 0.499 Episyenite 259.00 260.00 1.00 2.075 Episyenite 260.00 261.00 1.00 0.762 Episyenite 261.00 262.00 1.00 1.330 Episyenite 262.00 263.00 1.00 0.496 Episyenite 263.00 264.00 1.00 0.578 Episyenite 264.00 265.00 1.00 8.870 Episyenite 265.00 266.00 1.00 2.900 Episyenite 266.00 267.16 1.16 1.512 Episyenite 267.16 268.00 0.84 1.397 Episyenite 268.00 269.00 1.00 1.257 Episyenite 269.00 270.00 1.00 1.205 Episyenite 270.00 271.00 1.00 0.534 Episyenite 271.00 272.00 1.00 0.709 Episyenite 272.00 273.00 1.00 0.953 Episyenite 273.00 274.00 1.00 1.417 Episyenite 274.00 275.00 1.00 0.502 Episyenite 275.00 276.00 1.00 1.693 Episyenite 276.00 277.00 1.00 2.170 Episyenite 277.00 278.00 1.00 1.687 Episyenite 278.00 279.00 1.00 0.708 Episyenite 279.00 280.00 1.00 1.193 Episyenite 280.00 281.00 1.00 1.079 Episyenite 281.00 282.00 1.00 1.522 Episyenite 282.00 283.00 1.00 1.807 Episyenite 283.00 284.00 1.00 1.268 Episyenite 284.00 285.00 1.00 1.460 Episyenite 285.00 286.00 1.00 1.502 Episyenite 286.00 287.00 1.00 0.963 Episyenite 287.00 288.00 1.00 1.309 Episyenite 288.00 289.00 1.00 1.912 Episyenite 289.00 290.00 1.00 1.094 Episyenite 290.00 291.00 1.00 0.582 Episyenite 291.00 292.00 1.00 0.481 Episyenite 292.00 293.00 1.00 0.857 Episyenite 293.00 294.00 1.00 3.483 Episyenite 294.00 295.00 1.00 2.837 Episyenite 295.00 296.00 1.00 2.258 Episyenite 296.00 297.00 1.00 2.450 Episyenite 297.00 298.00 1.00 0.798 Episyenite 298.00 299.00 1.00 0.978 Episyenite 299.00 300.00 1.00 1.802 Episyenite 300.00 301.00 1.00 1.612 Episyenite 301.00 302.00 1.00 1.530 Episyenite 302.00 303.00 1.00 1.492 Episyenite 303.00 304.00 1.00 2.877 Episyenite 304.00 305.00 1.00 1.425 Episyenite 305.00 306.00 1.00 1.250 Episyenite 306.00 307.00 1.00 1.958 Episyenite 307.00 308.00 1.00 0.748 Episyenite 308.00 309.00 1.00 2.202 Episyenite 309.00 310.00 1.00 1.743 Episyenite 310.00 311.00 1.00 1.783 Episyenite 311.00 312.00 1.00 1.395 Episyenite 312.00 313.00 1.00 1.322 Episyenite 313.00 314.00 1.00 2.750 Episyenite 314.00 315.00 1.00 1.868 Episyenite 315.00 316.00 1.00 2.277 Episyenite 316.00 317.00 1.00 2.267 Episyenite 317.00 318.00 1.00 1.627 Episyenite 318.00 319.00 1.00 2.160 Episyenite 319.00 320.00 1.00 2.930 Episyenite 320.00 321.00 1.00 2.720 Episyenite 321.00 322.00 1.00 3.477 Episyenite 322.00 323.00 1.00 2.233 Episyenite 323.00 324.00 1.00 1.812 Episyenite 324.00 325.00 1.00 3.437 Episyenite 325.00 326.00 1.00 2.343 Episyenite 326.00 327.00 1.00 6.073 Episyenite 327.00 328.00 1.00 2.350 Episyenite 328.00 329.00 1.00 2.363 Episyenite 329.00 330.00 1.00 1.463 Episyenite 330.00 331.00 1.00 1.332 Episyenite 331.00 332.00 1.00 2.913 Episyenite 332.00 333.00 1.00 2.457 Episyenite 333.00 334.00 1.00 1.180 Episyenite 334.00 335.00 1.00 0.600 Episyenite 335.00 336.00 1.00 1.618 Episyenite 336.00 337.00 1.00 2.413 Episyenite 337.00 338.00 1.00 1.512 Episyenite 338.00 339.00 1.00 3.083 Episyenite 339.00 340.00 1.00 1.835 Episyenite 340.00 341.00 1.00 2.067 Episyenite 341.00 342.00 1.00 2.292 Episyenite 342.00 343.00 1.00 2.843 Episyenite 343.00 344.00 1.00 2.683 Episyenite 344.00 345.00 1.00 2.497 Episyenite 345.00 346.00 1.00 2.790 Episyenite 346.00 347.00 1.00 2.018 Episyenite 347.00 348.00 1.00 1.402 Episyenite 348.00 349.00 1.00 1.211 Episyenite 349.00 350.00 1.00 3.340 Episyenite 350.00 351.00 1.00 2.135 Episyenite 351.00 352.00 1.00 4.660 Episyenite 352.00 353.00 1.00 2.410 Episyenite 353.00 354.00 1.00 1.248 Episyenite 354.00 355.00 1.00 1.960 Episyenite 355.00 356.00 1.00 1.405 Episyenite 356.00 357.00 1.00 1.092 Episyenite 357.00 358.00 1.00 1.730 Episyenite 358.00 359.00 1.00 1.390 Episyenite 359.00 360.00 1.00 0.478 Episyenite 360.00 361.00 1.00 0.235 Episyenite 361.00 362.00 1.00 0.141 Episyenite 362.00 363.00 1.00 0.260 Episyenite 363.00 364.00 1.00 0.122 Episyenite 364.00 365.00 1.00 0.136 Episyenite 365.00 366.00 1.00 0.047 Episyenite 366.00 367.00 1.00 0.259 Episyenite 367.00 368.00 1.00 0.231 Episyenite 368.00 369.00 1.00 0.269 Episyenite 369.00 370.00 1.00 0.036 Episyenite 370.00 371.00 1.00 0.114 Episyenite 371.00 372.00 1.00 0.106 Episyenite 372.00 373.00 1.00 0.262 Episyenite 373.00 374.00 1.00 0.233 Episyenite 374.00 375.00 1.00 0.254 Episyenite 375.00 376.00 1.00 0.269 Episyenite 376.00 377.00 1.00 0.640 Episyenite 377.00 378.00 1.00 1.200 Episyenite 378.00 379.00 1.00 2.227 Episyenite 379.00 380.00 1.00 4.160 Episyenite 380.00 381.00 1.00 2.180 Episyenite 381.00 382.00 1.00 0.751 Episyenite 382.00 383.00 1.00 0.529 Episyenite 383.00 384.00 1.00 3.817 Episyenite 384.00 385.00 1.00 1.505 Episyenite 385.00 386.00 1.00 1.593 Episyenite 386.00 387.00 1.00 0.583 Episyenite 387.00 388.00 1.00 0.741 Episyenite 388.00 389.00 1.00 0.258 Episyenite 389.00 390.00 1.00 0.268 Episyenite 390.00 391.00 1.00 0.325 Episyenite 391.00 392.00 1.00 0.312 Episyenite 392.00 393.00 1.00 0.336 Episyenite 393.00 394.00 1.00 0.336 Episyenite 394.00 395.00 1.00 0.235 Episyenite 395.00 396.00 1.00 0.290 Episyenite 396.00 397.00 1.00 0.279 Episyenite 397.00 398.00 1.00 0.286 Episyenite 398.00 399.00 1.00 0.118 Episyenite 399.00 400.00 1.00 0.178 Episyenite 400.00 401.00 1.00 0.114 Episyenite 401.00 402.00 1.00 0.206 Episyenite 402.00 403.00 1.00 0.194 Episyenite 403.00 404.00 1.00 0.586 Episyenite 404.00 405.00 1.00 0.105 Episyenite 405.00 406.00 1.00 0.106 Episyenite 406.00 407.00 1.00 0.124 Episyenite 407.00 408.00 1.00 0.121 Episyenite 408.00 409.00 1.00 0.166 Episyenite 409.00 410.00 1.00 0.068 Episyenite 410.00 411.00 1.00 0.085 Episyenite 411.00 412.00 1.00 0.108 Episyenite 412.00 413.00 1.00 0.135 Episyenite 413.00 414.00 1.00 0.162 Episyenite 414.00 415.00 1.00 0.078 Episyenite 415.00 416.67 1.67 0.135 Episyenite 416.67 418.04 1.37 0.016 Perthitic granite 418.04 419.00 0.96 0.091 Episyenite 419.00 420.00 1.00 0.156 Episyenite 420.00 421.00 1.00 0.167 Episyenite 421.00 422.00 1.00 0.169 Episyenite 422.00 423.00 1.00 0.234 Episyenite 423.00 424.00 1.00 0.105 Episyenite 424.00 425.00 1.00 0.149 Episyenite 425.00 426.00 1.00 0.025 Perthitic granite 426.00 427.00 1.00 0.015 Perthitic granite 427.00 428.00 1.00 0.117 Episyenite 428.00 429.00 1.00 0.131 Episyenite 429.00 430.00 1.00 0.073 Episyenite 430.00 431.12 1.12 0.135 Episyenite 431.12 432.00 0.88 0.313 Perthitic granite 432.00 433.00 1.00 0.052 Perthitic granite 433.00 434.00 1.00 0.042 Perthitic granite 434.00 435.00 1.00 0.066 Perthitic granite 435.00 436.00 1.00 0.334 Perthitic granite 436.00 437.00 1.00 0.611 Perthitic granite 437.00 438.00 1.00 0.036 Perthitic granite 438.00 439.00 1.00 0.024 Perthitic granite 439.00 440.00 1.00 0.153 Perthitic granite 440.00 441.00 1.00 0.229 Perthitic granite 441.00 442.00 1.00 0.291 Perthitic granite 442.00 443.00 1.00 0.492 Perthitic granite 443.00 444.00 1.00 1.055 Perthitic granite 444.00 445.00 1.00 1.175 Perthitic granite 445.00 446.00 1.00 0.243 Perthitic granite 446.00 447.00 1.00 0.272 Perthitic granite 447.00 448.00 1.00 0.577 Perthitic granite 448.00 449.00 1.00 0.279 Perthitic granite 449.00 450.21 1.21 0.202 Perthitic granite 450.21 451.00 0.79 0.123 Perthitic granite 451.00 452.00 1.00 0.433 Perthitic granite

Notes

Assumes 0.25 g/t gold cut-off grade, no top cut.

The Company has been targeting larger intersections of greater than 0.25 g/t gold. Intersections that are lower than this threshold may provide exploration insight and may therefore be disclosed.

Intervals represent drill core interval; true widths have not been determined at this time.





Photos accompanying this announcement are available at

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/f88038e9-923e-499d-8db4-9e0cbcad996b

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/3da69475-e024-414a-b4df-c6336096f965

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/44eeba1e-0b8f-4a47-a822-967fe82c7488

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/74757689-f560-4a9b-8ee6-80770f8f69a2

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Pune, India, Aug. 29, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The adoption of AMRs helps the e-commerce industry players to deal with labor shortage issues and minimize human error. These robots can swiftly operate on damaged floors, changing surroundings, high traffic, liquid spills, slopes, narrow spaces, and elevators. The high payload-carrying capacity of AMRs improves the operational workflow in warehouses and distribution centers, leading to its adoption in the e-commerce industry. Such significant benefits are contributing the increasing revenue growth of the autonomous mobile robots market size. The growing e-commerce sector encourages companies to introduce new solutions that can maximize workflow in this sector, thereby fueling the autonomous mobile robots market growth.

Autonomous Mobile Robots Market in terms of revenue was estimated to be worth $1.40 billion in 2022 and is poised to reach $8.73 billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 25.7% from 2022 to 2030 according to a new report published by The Insight Partners.

The proliferation of the e-commerce industry and the growing demand for cost-effective and efficient logistics solutions have led to the increasing adoption of robots for tasks such as picking, packing, and shipping. Additionally, the need for automation in manufacturing and warehousing has also increased, leading to the growth of the global market.





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Browse Comprehensive TOC on "Autonomous Mobile Robots Market Forecast to 2030 - COVID-19 Impact and Global Analysis by Component (Hardware and Software & Services), Type (Picking Robots, Self-Driving Forklifts, and Autonomous Inventory Robots), and End Use (Manufacturing and Distribution & Warehousing)"

List of Tables - 177

List of Figures - 91

No. of Pages - 225





Global Autonomous Mobile Robots Market Scope:

Report Coverage Details Market Size Value in $1.40 billion in 2022 Market Size Value by $8.73 billion by 2030 Growth rate CAGR of 25.7% from 2022 to 2030 Forecast Period 2022-2030 Base Year 2022 Segments covered Component, Type, and End Use Regional scope North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific (APAC), Middle East and Africa (MEA) and South & Central America. Country scope Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, France, Germany, India, Italy, Japan, Mexico, Russian Federation, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, South Korea, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, United States Report coverage Revenue forecast, company ranking, competitive landscape, growth factors, and trends





Industry 4.0 transforms how companies manufacture, process, and distribute their products. They are incorporating new technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT), robotics, analytics, AI, and machine learning into their facilities to boost operational and production efficiencies. Factory automation plays a crucial role in the automation of manufacturing processes to increase production output in minimal time and low labor costs. In addition, it helps improve product quality by minimizing the risk of human error. As a result, industries such as healthcare, automotive, and aerospace are proactively adopting factory automation solutions. In March 2023, ADLINK Technology Inc. launched its latest AMR with the SWARM CORE software platform that integrates the software and hardware for efficient material handling, warehousing, and shipping in smart manufacturing facilities. In the same month, Thira Robotics (South Korea) unveiled a new AMR for healthcare, manufacturing, and supply chain industries seeking to transform their operations with the advent of Industry 4.0. Therefore, the growing demand for automation in various industries propels the growth of the autonomous mobile robots market.

The autonomous mobile robots market analysis is segmented into five major regionsNorth America, Europe, Asia Pacific, the Middle East & Africa (MEA), and South America (SAM). In 2022, Asia Pacific led the autonomous mobile robots market with a substantial revenue share, followed by Europe and North America. The Asia Pacific autonomous mobile robots (AMR) market is further segmented into Australia, China, India, Japan, South Korea, Indonesia, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, and the Rest of Asia Pacific. Asia is the worlds largest market for industrial robots. The installation of industrial robots increased by 33% in 2021 compared to 2022. The adoption of industrial robots in the electronics industry rose by 22% in 2021 compared to 2020, while that in the automotive, and metals & machinery industries increased by 57% and 29%, respectively. According to the International Federation of Robotics (IFR), China, Japan, and South Korea are among the top five most advanced robotics countries in terms of annual installations of industrial robots as of January 2023.





Autonomous Mobile Robots Market Size: Type

Based on type, the global autonomous mobile robots market is segmented into picking robots, self-driving forklifts, and autonomous inventory robots. Picking robots are used to automate picking products from storage shelves and transporting them to packing stations. This can help to improve efficiency and accuracy and reduce labor costs. The picking robot also increases output and profitability of production as well as automates monotonous tasks in the production process. These factors impact the employees health and safety.





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Autonomous Mobile Robots Market Analysis: Competitive Landscape and Key Developments

KUKA AG, Milvus Robotics, Geekplus Technology Co Ltd, OMRON Corp, Clearpath Robotics Inc, Locus Robotics Corp, Move Robotic Sdn Bhd, Teradyne Inc, Kivnon Logistica SLU, and Boston Dynamics Inc are among the key autonomous mobile robots market players profiled in the report. Several other essential autonomous mobile robots market players were analyzed for a holistic view of the market and its ecosystem. The report provides detailed autonomous mobile robots market growth insights, which can help major players strategize their growth.

Autonomous Mobile Robots Market - Key Industry Dynamics:

Drivers:

Proliferation of E-Commerce Industry

Growing Demand for Automated Systems





Restraints:

High Cost of Autonomous Mobile Robots





Opportunities:

Introduction of Advanced and Smart AMR





Future Trends:

Industry-Specific Applications





Recent Developments:

In 2023 , OMRON Corporation launched its K7DD-PQ Series of advanced motor condition monitoring devices. The series is the latest addition to OMRONs family of condition monitoring devices that automate the monitoring of abnormalities on the manufacturing site in place of human workers.

, OMRON Corporation launched its K7DD-PQ Series of advanced motor condition monitoring devices. The series is the latest addition to OMRONs family of condition monitoring devices that automate the monitoring of abnormalities on the manufacturing site in place of human workers. In 2022 , ABB Ltd, a leading automation company, built its innovative, fully automated, and adaptable robotics plant in Kangqiao, Shanghai, China. It had a 67,000 m2 production and research facility. The new factory and R&D center strengthened its automation and robotics leadership in China.

Report Spotlights:

Progressive industry trends in the autonomous mobile robots market to help players develop effective long-term strategies

Business growth strategies adopted by developed and developing markets

Quantitative analysis of the autonomous mobile robots market from 2022 to 2030

Estimation of global demand for autonomous mobile robots

PEST analysis to illustrate the efficacy of buyers and suppliers operating in the industry

Recent developments to understand the competitive market scenario

Market trends and outlook as well as factors driving and restraining the growth of the autonomous mobile robots market

Assistance in the decision-making process by highlighting market strategies that underpin commercial interest, leading to the market growth

Size of the autonomous mobile robots market size at various nodes

Detailed overview and segmentation of the market, as well as the autonomous mobile robots industry dynamics

Size of the autonomous mobile robots market in various regions with promising growth opportunities





Go through further research published by The Insight Partners: (Purchase with 10% Instant Discount):

Collaborative Robots Market Forecast to 2030 - COVID-19 Impact and Global Analysis

Industrial Automation Market Forecast to 2028 - COVID-19 Impact and Global Analysis

Warehouse Automation and Control Market Forecast to 2028 - COVID-19 Impact and Global Analysis

Factory Automation Market Forecast to 2028 - COVID-19 Impact and Global Analysis

Industrial Automation Control Market to 2027 - Global Analysis and Forecasts





About Us:

The Insight Partners is a one stop industry research provider of actionable intelligence. We help our clients in getting solutions to their research requirements through our syndicated and consulting research services. We specialize in industries such as Semiconductor and Electronics, Aerospace and Defense, Automotive and Transportation, Biotechnology, Healthcare IT, Manufacturing and Construction, Medical Device, Technology, Media and Telecommunications, Chemicals and Materials.

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If you have any queries about this report or if you would like further information, please contact us:

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Lab Operations has Seen a Consistent Uptick in Sample Flow

LAS VEGAS, NV, Aug. 29, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- via NewMediaWire - Digipath, Inc. (OTCQB: DIGP) (DIGP or the Company), a service-oriented independent analytical testing laboratory, focused on the cannabis and hemp markets, today announced that Revenues and Gross Margins increased over the same period last year based on results for the three month period ending June 30, 2023.

Third Quarter Fiscal Year 2023 Company Highlights

At the corporate level, our earnings for the 3 rd quarter this year were $292,533 versus ($576,733) in the same quarter last year.

quarter this year were $292,533 versus ($576,733) in the same quarter last year. At the lab level, our revenues were $787,549 in the last quarter versus $680,275 in the previous year and net income was $231,795 versus ($44,777) last year.

Management Comment

We are thrilled with the increased revenue over the past year, said Stone Douglass, Chairman of Digipath. We have definitely seen an increase in sample flow from both old and new customers which is also a good sign for the industry, Douglass added.

Our goal was to build on last years momentum and increase revenues all around, Todd Denkin, President of Digipath Labs, said. We like to keep our clients happy with best-in-class customer service, our 3-day turnaround, free DNA removal, and our top-notch scientific staff. And we use the same philosophy to attract new brands, cultivators, and producers to experience the Digipath difference, Denkin added.

Digipath, Inc. had previously signed an agreement with DPL Nevada, LLC to sell the assets of Digipath Labs, Inc., its testing subsidiary. DPLs owners currently own Delta Verde Labs of Arizona. Both independent cannabis and hemp testing laboratories are highly dedicated to best-in-class compliance testing and white glove customer service. The sale is subject to approval from the Nevada Cannabis Control Board (CCB) and other customary conditions.

Once the CCB approves the transaction and the sale is completed, Digipath Labs operations in Las Vegas will remain the same while Digipath, Inc., the public holding company, will change its name and will actively seek to acquire a new business.

About Digipath, Inc. (OTCQB: DIGP)

Digipath, Inc ., supports the cannabis industrys best practices for reliable testing, data acquisition, formulations, and new canna-tech to the cannabis industry.

About Digipath Labs, Inc.

Digipath Labs provides pharmaceutical-grade analysis and testing to the cannabis industry to ensure producers, consumers and patients know exactly what is in the cannabis they ingest and to help maximize the quality of its clients products through analysis, research, development, and standardization.

Information about Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements that include information relating to future events. Forward-looking statements should not be read as a guarantee of future performance or results and will not necessarily be accurate indications of the times at, or by, which that performance or those results will be achieved. Forward-looking statements are based on information available at the time they are made and/or management's good faith belief as of that time with respect to future events and are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual performance or results to differ materially from those expressed in, or suggested by, the forward-looking statements. Important factors that could cause these differences include, but are not limited to: the Company's need for additional funding, the demand for the Company's products, governmental regulation of the cannabis industry, the Company's ability to maintain customer and strategic business relationships, the impact of competitive products and pricing, growth in targeted markets, the adequacy of the Company's liquidity and financial strength to support its growth, and other risks that may be detailed from time-to-time in the Company's filings with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission. For a more detailed description of the risk factors and uncertainties affecting Digipath, please refer to the Company's recent Securities and Exchange Commission filings, which are available at www.sec.gov. The Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise.

Corporate Contact:

Digipath, Inc.

(702) 209-2429

Attachment
BATAVIA, Ill., Aug. 29, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- High Wire Networks, Inc. (OTCQB: HWNI), a leading global provider of managed cybersecurity and technology enablement, has been invited to present at the National Investment Banking Association (NIBA) Conference being held at The Westin Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida on September 6-7, 2023.

High Wire CEO, Mark Porter, is scheduled to present on Thursday, September 7. He will be joined by CFO Curt Smith for one-on-one meetings with analysts and investors throughout the day. High Wire will also exhibit its portfolio of managed services.

Management will discuss the companys market leadership in delivering IT and cybersecurity managed services for its channel partners and end-customers worldwide. They will also review how the companys growth in managed services is being driven by over 625 channel partners.

Through these channel partners, High Wires highly flexible and adaptable managed services have earned the trust of tens of thousands of SMBs and enterprise customers worldwide, including hundreds of the Fortune 500, many of the Fortune 50, and multiple top federal government agencies.

The company recently reported its revenue climbed 32% in the first half of 2023 to $16.1 million, with monthly recurring revenue exceeding $1 million for the first time, based on long-term manage services contracts.

In July, High Wire introduced a next-gen, industry-disruptive cybersecurity technology to be delivered through its new Overwatch CyberLab browser security module. Compared to other solutions on the market today, the companys web browser approach is expected to deliver greater protection at the edge, a better user experience, and more responsive actions to active threats.

To submit your NIBA conference registration request, click here. To schedule a one-on-one meeting with High Wire, you can sign up at the conference 1x1 desk.

For questions or further information about High Wire, please contact Ron Both of CMA at (949) 432-7557 or submit your request here.

About National Investment Banking Association

Since 1982, The National Investment Banking Association (NIBA) has been serving the micro-cap and small-cap investment community. NIBA have hosted 147 investment conferences showcasing public and private companies seeking access to the financial industry. NIBA is made up of thousands of investment professionals representing over 60 key industry services and include over 8,800 registered representatives that have over $89 billion assets under management. For more information, visit nibanet.org.

About High Wire Networks

High Wire Networks, Inc. (OTCQB: HWNI) is a fast-growing, award-winning global provider of managed cybersecurity and IT enablement services. Through more than 625 channel partners, it delivers trusted managed services for nearly 1,000 managed security customers and tens of thousands of technology customers. Its end-customers include hundreds of Fortune 500 companies and the nations largest government agencies.

High Wire has 125 full-time employees worldwide and four U.S. offices, including a U.S. based 24/7 Network Operations Center and Security Operations Center in Chicago, with additional regional offices in Puerto Rico and United Kingdom.

High Wire was recently ranked by Frost & Sullivan as a Top 12 Managed Security Service Provider in the Americas. It was also recently named to CRNs MSP 500 and Elite 150 lists of the nations top IT managed service providers.

Learn more at HighWireNetworks.com. Follow the company on Twitter, view its extensive video series on YouTube or connect on LinkedIn.

Forward-Looking Statements

The above news release contains forward-looking statements. The statements contained in this document that are not statements of historical fact, including but not limited to, statements identified by the use of terms such as "anticipate," "appear," "believe," "could," "estimate," "expect," "hope," "indicate," "intend," "likely," "may," "might," "plan," "potential," "project," "seek," "should," "will," "would," and other variations or negative expressions of these terms, including statements related to expected market trends and the Company's performance, are all "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and involve a number of risks and uncertainties. These statements are based on assumptions that management believes are reasonable based on currently available information, and include statements regarding the intent, belief or current expectations of the Company and its management. Prospective investors are cautioned that any such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performances and are subject to a wide range of external factors, uncertainties, business risks, and other risks identified in filings made by the company with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Actual results may differ materially from those indicated by such forward-looking statements. The Company expressly disclaims any obligation or undertaking to update or revise any forward-looking statement contained herein to reflect any change in the company's expectations with regard thereto or any change in events, conditions or circumstances upon which any statement is based except as required by applicable law and regulations.



High Wire Contact

Susanna Song

Chief Marketing Officer

High Wire Networks

Tel +1 (952) 974-4000

Email contact

Media Relations:

Tim Randall

CMA Media Relations

Tel +1 (949) 432-7572

Email contact

Investor Relations:

Ronald Both or Grant Stude

CMA Investor Relations

Tel +1 (949) 432-7557

Email contact
Highlights:



5 drill rigs have been operating to complete the planned 20,000-meter drill program in 2023

Completed resource definition drilling (of 6,151 meters in 21 holes) of the extensions of West Zone and East Zone on Ferguson Lake

Made significant technical achievements by expanding the mineralized horizons by over 2,700 meters

Intersected near-surface massive sulphide zones, e.g, 10.0m (from 47.57  57.57m) at 0.89% Cu, 0.53% Ni, 0.08% Co, 1.05g/t Pd, 0.12g/t Pt and 0.02 g/t Rh

Ended the quarter with cash and cash equivalents of $4,816,637, and subsequently raised additional $5,899,548 for exploration

Awarded $375,000 in grants to-date from the Government of Nunavut's Discover, Invest, Grow ("DIG") program

TORONTO, Aug. 29, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Canadian North Resources Inc. (the Company, TSXV: CNRI; OTCQX: CNRSF; FSE: EO0 (E-O-zero)) is pleased to report the operational and financial results for the second quarter ended June 30, 2023.

Dr. Kaihui Yang, the President & CEO of the Company said, During the spring of 2023, the Company has made significant technical achievements by expanding laterally over 2,700 meters of mineralized horizons at our 100% owned Ferguson Lake nickel, copper, cobalt, palladium and platinum project (the Ferguson Lake Project, Figure 1).

During Q2, 2023, the Company was awarded a $250,000 grant from the Government of Nunavut's Discover, Invest, Grow ("DIG") program for the successful exploration programs at the Ferguson Lake project. The Company also received over $2,150,000 from the early exercise of warrants by KRE Development Co. Ltd ("KRE"), the biggest shareholder of the Company. 

Subsequent to the end of the quarter, in July 2023, the Company has raised over $5,899,000 from the flowthrough financings to support its aggressive drilling and other exploration programs at the Ferguson Lake project.

We are highly encouraged by the strong supports from the major shareholders, investors and the government. We continue drilling into the summer to further expand the mineral resources from the current resource model (Refer to Independent Technical Report, Updated Mineral Resource Estimate, Ferguson Lake Project, Nunavut, Canada, Prepared by Ronacher McKenzie Geoscience Inc. and Francis Minerals Ltd.  filed by the Company to Sedar.com on July 13, 2022), and to test the new targets in the 256.8 km2 area of mining leases and exploration claims.





Figure 1 The Extensions of West Zone and East Zone defined by the drill holes completed in the springs of 2022 and 2023 in addition to historic drill holes.

The Company engaged in the following activities in the second quarter: On April 3, 2023, the Company announced a 20,000-meter drilling program in 2023 and commenced diamond drilling at its Ferguson Lake Project. This drilling program was based on the results of the 18,144 meter drilling completed in 2022, to further expand the nickel, copper, cobalt, palladium and platinum mineral resources along the 15-km long main mineralized horizon and to test the new identified base metal and PGM targets and the prospects for lithium mineralization within the 256.8 km2 area of mining leases and exploration claims. On May 5, 2023, the Company granted to its directors, officers and consultants, options to purchase a total of 650,000 Common Shares of the Company, at an exercise price of $2.45 per share. The options will expire on May 4, 2028. These options vested immediately. the Company granted to consultants options to purchase a total of 500,000 Common Shares of the Company, at an exercise price of $2.45 per share. The options will expire on May 4 2024, In the number of options to consultants, 100,000 options will be vested 6 months after granted, 400,000 options will be vested equally every 3 months after granted. On May 8, the Company announced its engagement with Paradox Public Relations Inc. to enhance our investor relations efforts and increase our visibility in the investment community. It was anticipated that their expertise and connections would help the Company to improve the market performance and achieve a fair market value for our shareholders.

On May 9, 2023, the Company granted to consultants who signed consulting service agreements with the Company, options to purchase a total of 1,600,000 Common Shares of the Company, at an exercise price of $2.45 per share. The options will be vested after December 31, 2023 and will expire on December 31 2024.

On May 10, The Company began to trade at OCTQX Market, which provides a platform to enhance its visibility and liquidity among U.S. investors. This marks an important step forward for the Company as it continues to expand our reach and engage with investors in North America.

On May 16, The Company announced that was awarded a $250,000 grant from the Government of Nunavut's Discover, Invest, Grow ("DIG") program for the completion of the exploration programs at the Ferguson Lake project in 2022. It is an honor and a recognition of the exploration achievements to-date for the Ferguson Lake project. The support from Nunavut's Discovery Program further validates the Companys commitment to responsible exploration practices and strengthens its relationship with the local communities and government.

On May 29, The Company announced it had completed its spring diamond drilling program on ice consisting of 6,151 metres in 21 holes for its 100% owned Ferguson Lake project. The purpose of the spring on-ice program was to test the main mineralized horizon trending across Ferguson Lake with the focus of completing definition drilling of the East Zone 1 and extending it to the west plus, as well, extending the West Zone further to the East to join it to the Central Zone in the lake. The drill program intersected massive sulphides of the main horizon in 16 out of the 21 holes and successfully intersected a second parallel trending disseminated sulphide zone approximately 200 metres south of the Central Zone

On June 15, 2023, the Company announced that the Company re-started diamond drilling at its 100% owned Ferguson Lake Project (Ferguson Lake Project) in Nunavut, Canada after a three week pause for regional caribou migration and after completing the first 6,151 metres of drilling on Ferguson Lake during the spring.

On June 26, 2023, the Company announced that the Company was granted Depository Trust Company (DTC) eligibility, a significant milestone that will enhance the accessibility and efficiency of the Company's shares for investors in the United States.



For the quarter ended June 30, 2023, the Company reported a net loss of $92,556 or $0.00 per share.



Subsequent to Quarter 2, the Company achieved the following:

On July 5, 2023, the Company announced that KRE Development Co. Ltd ("KRE"), the biggest shareholder of the Company has elected to exercise their warrants ahead of the scheduled expiration of December 31, 2023. KRE exercised 1,437,198 share purchase warrants (each a "Warrant" to purchase one share at $1.50) for aggregate proceeds of $2,155,797 on June 30, 2023. Warrants were issued in connection with the Company's offering of units completed prior to listing.



On July 18, 2023, the Company reported the assay results for the 6,151 metres in 21 holes of diamond drilling completed during the spring. The assay results confirmed the near-surface mineralization along the east extension (strike length 1.2 km) of West Zone and the west extension (strike length 1.5 km) of East Zone across Ferguson Lake.



On July 27, 2023, the Company announced the closing of non-brokered private placement of common shares (Flow-Through Shares) on a flow-through basis pursuant to the Income Tax Act (Canada), of which 1,031,425 Flow-Through Shares were issued at a price of $2.70 per share for gross proceeds of $2,784,847.50 (the Flow-Through Offering).



On August 2, 2023, the Company announced, further to its news release issued on July 27, 2023, the closing of the first tranche of its non-brokered private placement of 1,082,621 common shares (Charity Flow-Through Shares) on a flow-through basis pursuant to the Income Tax Act (Canada) at a price of $2.877 per share for gross proceeds of $3,114,700.62 (the Charity Flow-Through Offering).



On August 9, 2023, 30,000 share options that were issued on April 5, 2022 were exercised. The Company issued 30,000 common shares.



On August 17, 2023, the Company announced that it had received an additional grant of $125,000 from the Government of Nunavut's Discover, Invest, Grow ("DIG") program. This grant comes on the heels of the $250,000 received in May and June 2023, reaffirming the Company's commitment to advancing mineral exploration in the emerging mining region of Nunavut. The Company also announced that it had granted to certain officers options to purchase a total of 110,000 Common Shares of the Company at an exercise price of $2.35 per share. The options will expire on August 18, 2028.



For the quarter end financial statements and Managements Discussion and Analysis, please see the Company website at www.cnresources.com or on SEDAR.

Qualified Person:

The technical contents of this news release have been reviewed by Dr. Trevor Boyd, P.Geo., a qualified person as defined by Canadian National Instrument 43-101 standards.

About Canadian North Resources Inc.:

Canadian North Resources Inc. is an exploration and development company focusing on the critical metals for the clean-energy, electric vehicles, battery and high-tech industries. The company is advancing its 100% owned Ferguson Lake nickel, copper, cobalt, palladium, and platinum project that covers an area of 253.8 km2 of mining leases (96.9 km2) and surrounding exploration claims (156.9 km2) in the Kivalliq Region of Nunavut, Canada.

The Ferguson Lake mining property contains substantial resources in compliance with NI43-101 standards, which include Indicated Mineral Resources of 24.3 million tonnes containing 455 million pounds (Mlb) copper at 0.85%, 321Mlb nickel at 0.60%, 37.5Mlb cobalt at 0.07%, 1.08 million ounces (Moz) palladium at 1.38gpt and 0.18Moz platinum at 0.23gpt; Inferred Mineral Resources of 47.2 million tonnes containing 947Mlb copper at 0.91%, 551.5Mlb nickel at 0.53%, 62.4Mlb cobalt at 0.06%, 2.12Moz palladium at 1.4gpt and 0.38Moz platinum at 0.25gpt. The resource model indicates significant potential for resource expansion along strike and at depth over the 15 km long mineralized belt. (Refer to Independent Technical Report, Updated Mineral Resource Estimate, Ferguson Lake Project, Nunavut, Canada, Prepared by Ronacher McKenzie Geoscience Inc. and Francis Minerals Ltd filed by the Company to Sedar.com on July 13, 2022). In addition, the Company has identified the pegmatites with lithium potential at the Ferguson Lake project.

Further information please visit the website at www.cnresources.com, or contact:

Dr. Kaihui Yang, President and CEO

Phone: 905-696-8288 (Canada) 1-888-688-8809 (Toll-Free)

Email: info@cnresources.com

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

Certain statements contained in this news release, including statements which may contain words such as expects, anticipates, intends, plans, believes, estimates, or similar expressions, and statements related to matters which are not historical facts, are forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Such forward-looking statements, which reflect managements expectations regarding the Companys future growth, results of operations, performance, business prospects and opportunities, are based on certain factors and assumptions and involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties which may cause the actual results, performance, or achievements to be materially different from future results, performance, or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements.

These factors should be considered carefully, and readers should not place undue reliance on the Companys forward-looking statements. The Company believes that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements contained in this news release and the documents incorporated by reference herein are reasonable, but no assurance can be given that these expectations will prove to be correct. In addition, although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual actions, events or results to differ materially from those described in forward looking statements, there may be other factors that cause actions, events or results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. The Company undertakes no obligation to release publicly any future revisions to forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date of this news or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events, except as expressly required by law.

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/b3f3ac10-c761-493e-abae-5a813a3fa114
VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Aug. 29, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- United Lithium Corp. (CSE: ULTH; OTC: ULTHF; FWB: 0ULA) (United or ULTH or the Company) is pleased to announce that it has completed a bedrock and soil sampling program at its 100%-owned Liberty Project in South Dakota. Covering approximately 6,000 hectares (ha) within the Black Hills Mining District, the 2023 program was designed to follow-up on a 2022 reconnaissance sampling program, conducted at the time of staking. The program which returned high-grade results of up to 1.51% Li 2 O (lithium oxide) from outcropping bedrock samples.



Highlights:

The Black Hills region produced significant amounts of lithium in the 1940s and 1950s from pegmatites across several historical mines. United controls a highly prospective area compromising 729 claims (6,000 ha) making the Company one of the largest lithium explorers in the district;

in the 1940s and 1950s from pegmatites across several historical mines. United controls a highly prospective area compromising 729 claims (6,000 ha) making the Company one of the largest lithium explorers in the district; The largest known spodumene crystals in the world have been found in the Black Hills Mining District and have reached record sizes up to 42 feet long;

Uniteds adjoining claim holder Iris Metals (ASX:IR1) recently announced results of a 2023 drill program at their Beecher Project, which noted several high-grade results including 60 metres (m) of 1.21% Li 2 O (true width) from a depth of 16 m down hole in drill hole BDH-23-001 (see news release dated August 9, 2023);

O (true width) from a depth of 16 m down hole in drill hole BDH-23-001 (see news release dated August 9, 2023); The highest-grade rock chip sample assay reported to date from Uniteds Liberty Project is 1.51% Li 2 O , identified in the 2022 sampling program;

, identified in the 2022 sampling program; The Liberty Project is an outcrop rich environment, with approximately 1,400 observed pegmatite outcrops; and

and The 2023 Liberty sampling program covered 50 square kilometres, supported by the latest technology in portable analytical tools including LIBS and XRF analyzers which provide real-time results.

Scott Eldridge, Uniteds CEO stated: Our Liberty Project is surrounded by past producing pegmatite mines and has demonstrated widespread high-grade lithium hosting samples at surface. For the first time in decades the historically important Black Hills Mining District has been reignited by our immediate neighbor, Iris, who recently announced a discovery drill hole of 60 m of 1.21% lithium oxide.

Given the fertile nature of the area, we are strongly motivated to advance Liberty towards a maiden drill campaign. We are extremely pleased with preliminary LIBS readings of up to 1.65% lithium oxide and anticipate positive confirmation from laboratory assay results. Additionally, we received numerous LIBS results on our claims just west of Beecher. The initial 2022 results were very positive, encouraging us to follow up with a more detailed program in 2023. We will interpret the field and lab results to identify high priority drill targets aimed at making discoveries on this highly prospective property.



United Lithium has a world class exploration portfolio including projects in Europe and the United States. The Company is fast-tracking exploration efforts in the US with the goal of making economic discoveries that can further the United States aggressive goal to produce its own domestic lithium and supply its growing EV industry.

Liberty Sampling and Mapping Program

The surface program geologically mapped exposed pegmatite bodies and collected more than 600 bedrock outcrop samples for assaying. In addition, more than 100 soil samples were collected along survey lines in areas of less outcrop, but proximal to partially exposed, lithium-bearing pegmatites. Results of laboratory analyses, combined with real-time field results from LIBS analyses for 2023 samples (see Figure 1), and 2022 results will be used to identify areas prospective for future drilling.

Figure 1: Surface sample results: 2023 LIBS and 2022 Assays for the Liberty Project





About the Liberty Project, South Dakota

The Liberty Project lies within the historic Black Hills Mining District which is home to past producing pegmatite and lithium mines dating back to 1898. The extensive property is located in the southern and southwestern parts of the Black Hills centered around the city of Custer. The district has seen very little modern and systematic exploration and the Company was an early mover, securing a highly prospective land package within a geological environment that is recognized to host lithium-bearing, LCT-type pegmatites. The Project is outcrop rich with approximately 1,400 pegmatite occurrences observed. The initial 2022 sampling program returned results as high as 1.51% Li 2 O in outcrop sampling.

Quality Assurance and Quality Control

Surface rock samples that were analysed in the field during the 2023 program were done so using a SciAps LIBS (Laser Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy) hand-held tool model Z-903. The LIBS laser spectrometer is designed to identify and assess lithium-bearing minerals on-site in real time. Samples collected for laboratory analysis were sent to ALS Global Ltd. (ALS) laboratory in Elko, Nevada for sample preparation. Once prepared, samples will be securely shipped by ALS to their laboratory in Vancouver, B.C., Canada, for analysis. Samples will be analyzed using the ME-MS89L technique with analyzes for 53 elements using sodium peroxide fusion and is appropriate for lithium-mineralized pegmatites. The ALS global quality program includes internal and external inter-laboratory test programs and regularly scheduled internal audits that meet all requirements of ISO/IEC 17025:2017 and ISO 9001:2015.

Qualified Person

The scientific and technical data contained in this news release was reviewed and approved by Robert Schafer, Registered Professional Geologist, and Qualified Person as defined by NI 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Minerals Projects.

On Behalf of The Board of Directors

Scott Eldridge

Chief Executive Officer and Director

Tel: 604-428-6128 office

About United Lithium Corp.

United Lithium Corp. (CSE: ULTH) is an exploration & development company energized by the global demand for lithium. The Company is targeting lithium projects in politically safe jurisdictions with advanced infrastructure that allows for rapid and cost-effective exploration, development, and production opportunities. For more information, please visit the Companys website at https://unitedlithium.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

This news release includes forward-looking statements and forward-looking information within the meaning of Canadian securities legislation. All statements included in this news release, other than statements of historical fact, are forward-looking statements including, without limitation, statements with respect to the potential of the Liberty Project; the potential identification of new mineralization; timing and successful execution of ongoing and future drilling and exploration activities. Forward-looking statements include predictions, projections and forecasts and are often, but not always, identified by the use of words such as anticipate, believe, plan, estimate, expect, potential, target, budget and intend and statements that an event or result may, will, should, could or might occur or be achieved and other similar expressions and includes the negatives thereof.

Forward-looking statements are based on the reasonable assumptions, estimates, analysis, and opinions of the management of the Company made in light of its experience and its perception of trends, current conditions and expected developments, as well as other factors that management of the Company believes to be relevant and reasonable in the circumstances at the date that such statements are made. Forward-looking information is based on reasonable assumptions that have been made by the Company as at the date of such information and is subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may have caused actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information, including but not limited to: risks associated with mineral exploration and development; metal and mineral prices; availability of capital; accuracy of the Companys projections and estimates; realization of mineral resource estimates, interest and exchange rates; competition; stock price fluctuations; availability of drilling equipment and access; actual results of current exploration activities; government regulation; political or economic developments; environmental risks; insurance risks; capital expenditures; operating or technical difficulties in connection with development activities; personnel relations; contests over title to properties; changes in project parameters as plans continue to be refined; and impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. The estimate of mineral resources may be materially affected by environmental, permitting, legal, title, taxation, sociopolitical, marketing, or other relevant issues. Forward-looking statements are based on assumptions management believes to be reasonable, including but not limited to the price of lithium and other metals and minerals; the demand for lithium and other metals and minerals; the ability to carry on exploration and development activities; the timely receipt of any required approvals; the ability to obtain qualified personnel, equipment and services in a timely and cost-efficient manner; the ability to operate in a safe, efficient and effective matter; and the regulatory framework regarding environmental matters, and such other assumptions and factors as set out herein. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate and actual results, and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward looking information contained herein, except in accordance with applicable securities laws. The forward-looking information contained herein is presented for the purpose of assisting investors in understanding the Companys expected financial and operational performance and the Companys plans and objectives and may not be appropriate for other purposes. The Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking information, except in accordance with applicable securities laws.

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/d926e742-103b-4fe2-ad68-4deb4274c671
New York, USA, Aug. 29, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Tequila Market Overview

Market Research Future (MRFR) 's report highlights  Tequila Market Research Report Information Type, Grade, Distribution Channel, And Region  Market Forecast Till 2032, the market value will escalate from USD 18.4 Billion by 2032 , 6.90% CAGR during the review period (2023-2032).

The global tequila market is likely to grow rapidly due to rising disposable income levels and shifting consumer choices and lifestyles. The rising demand for premium spirits would drive the tequila market growth.

Growing consumer interest in new & exotic flavors and the vast expansion of distribution channels are key factors contributing to the tequila market revenues. Millennials, with significant spending power, are the largest consumers of tequila. Additionally, the growing demand for super-premium drinks & crafted beverages, expanding consumer access & choices, reformed alcohol regulations & restrictions on hospitality taxes, and the development of "cocktail culture" substantiate the market size.



Get Free Sample PDF Brochure:



https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/sample_request/11972



The Covid-19 outbreak impacted the market with the global shutdown of numerous hotels, eateries, and liquor stores, constraining tequila sales. The tequila business also saw a major decline due to a 65% decrease in global tourist spending and exports. However, post-pandemic, the tequila industry recovered much more quickly and is expected to reach its pre-Covid level.

Report Scope:



Report Attribute Details Market Size 2032 USD 18.4 Billion CAGR 6.90%% (2023 to 2032) Base Year 2022 Forecast Period 20232032 Historical Data 2020, 2021 Forecast Units Value (USD Billion) Report Coverage Revenue Forecast, Competitive Landscape, Growth Factors, and Trends Segments Covered By Type, Grade, Distribution Channel, And Region Geographies Covered North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and Rest of the World (RoW) Key Market Drivers Increased celebrity endorsements and marketing



Competitive Landscape

Pernod Ricard S.A. (France)

Diageo Plc (U.K.)

Bacardi Limited (Bermuda)

Suntory Holdings Limited (Japan)

Heaven Hill Distilleries, Inc. (U.S.)

Campari Group (Italy)

Sazerac Company Inc. (U.S.)

Brown-Forman Corporation (U.S.)

Casa Aceves (Mexico)

Constellation Brands, Inc. (U.S.)

Buy Now: https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/checkout?currency=one_user-USD&report_id=11972



For instance, On Aug. 01, 2023, Ole Smoky Distillery, a leading spirits company, announced its merger with Tanteo Spirits, LLC, a leading ultra-premium tequila company, to enter the fast-growing tequila market, as it aims to diversify its portfolio across other high-growth spirits categories. The addition of Tanteo to the company's portfolio further exemplifies its quality and reputation while allowing it to leverage its sources to introduce the Tanteo brand to even more consumers nationwide.

Prominent players in the global tequila market research include Pernod Ricard S A (France), Diageo Plc (UK), Suntory Holdings Limited (Japan), Bacardi Limited (Bermuda), Heaven Hill Distilleries, Inc. (US), Campari Group (Italy), Sazerac Company Inc. (US), Brown-Forman Corporation (US), Casa Aceves (Mexico), Constellation Brands, Inc. (US), and others.

Industry Trends

The primary drivers of the global market's expansion are the rising accessibility and demand for premium liquors. The tremendous demand for premium and super-premium tequila in developing and developed nations is the main driver of the global market. A significant increase in per capita income worldwide has increased market demand. With the growing demand, retailers are increasingly stocking expensive tequila variants.

The rising competition among tequila manufacturers hampers the growth of the market. Moreover, the growing popularity of other alcoholic beverages like mezcal, vodka, and wine affects tequila sales. Also, American bourbon and Irish whiskey are the fastest-growing spirit categories globally. Rising demand for Irish whisky and American bourbon is anticipated to impede market growth.

Segments

The global tequila market report is segmented into product types, grades, distribution channels, and regions. The tequila type segment is sub-segmented into Blanco, Reposado, Anejo, and others. Of these, Blanco accounts for the largest share, contributing to the tequila market revenue. Blanco, also known as silver tequila, is the clear and purest form, as it is bottled directly after being distilled.

The growing popularity of Blanco tequila's earthy, semi-sweet, and distinctive agave flavors boosts the segment's growth. Besides, the growing preference for blanco tequila variants in cocktails & mocktails like margaritas, Paloma, and light, citrusy drinks substantiate the segment's market share. Also, the smoother taste and wide availability of blanco tequila variants contribute to its widespread consumption.

The grade type segment is sub-segmented into value, premium, high-end premium, and super premium. Of these, premium tequila is the largest segment in the market. Consumers seek high-quality spirits with a unique sensory appeal, mouthfeel, and texture. Besides, the growing demand for premium tequila from younger consumers and millennials for the excellent drinking experience the variant offers drives the market demand.

The distribution channel segment is sub-segmented into on-trade and off-trade. On-trade, which includes on-premises consumption in licensed establishments such as bars & nightclubs and, restaurants & hotels, is the largest distribution channel. The on-trade sales channel is the largest revenue-generating segment in the tequila market. By regions, the tequila market is segmented into North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and the rest of the world.



Browse In-depth Market Research Report (128 Pages) on Tequila Market:



https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/reports/tequila-market-11972



Regional Analysis

Globally, North America is a leading market for tequila, witnessing premiumization tendencies, new consumer inclinations toward unique brands, and the availability of diversified product lines. Besides, the rising interest among Americans in premium liquors and widespread drinking tendencies drive the tequila market growth. The rising demand for spirits in on-trade channels, such as full-service restaurants and cafes/bars, boosts the tequila market size.

The tequila market in Asia-Pacific experiences the fastest growth rate. Moreover, the rapid economic growth and urbanization in emerging economies, such as Japan, China, and India, boost the tequila market sales. Growing socialization & weekend partying trends among youngsters and shifting consumer preferences for exotic alcoholic beverages escalate the tequila market value.

Discover more research Reports on Food, Beverages & Nutrition Industry , by Market Research Future:

Luxury Wines and Spirits Market Research Report Information By Type (Wine, Whisky, Rum, Brandy, Vodka, Gin, Tequila and Others), By Distribution Channel (Food Retail and Food Service), and By Region (North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, And Rest Of The World)  Market Forecast Till 2030

Gluten Free Alcoholic Drinks Market Research Report Information by Type (Gluten-Free Beer, Gluten-Free Hard Cider, Gluten-Free Wine, Gluten-Free Wine Coolers, Gluten-Free Spirits, Gluten-Free Gin, Gluten-Free Rum, Gluten-Free Sake, Gluten-Free Tequila, Gluten-Free Vodka, Gluten-Free Whiskey, and Others), Source (Buckwheat, Sorghum, Rice, Corn, Fruits, Potatoes, Sugar Cane, Agave Cactus and Others) and By Region (North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and Rest of the World) Market Forecast Till 2032

White Spirits Market Research Report Information By Product Type (Rum, Vodka, Gin, Tequila, and others), By Distribution Channel (Food Retail, Food Service), and By Region (North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, And Rest Of The World)  Market Forecast Till 2030

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Harrisonburg, VA, Aug. 29, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Farmer Focus is the largest branded organic chicken producer behind a unique model of empowering generational farm families. Founder Corwin Heatwole is transitioning from CEO of the company and is assuming a new role as Chairman of the organizations Board of Managers. This change is part of the companys strategic plan and commitment to focus on the future of farming.

Our business is strong and the executive team is well-positioned to sustain the growth trajectory we are on, Heatwole stated. My goal has always been to step away from the day-to-day operations and create time and space for casting vision for what comes next  specifically regenerative agriculture and innovation in farming. I believe Farmer Focus is an important voice in this space.

Farmer Focus Board of Managers member Matt Walker of S2G, the lead investor in the company, is supportive of this evolution in stewardship. Corwins initial idea for Farmer Focus was a game changer in the poultry space. My fellow board members are excited to see what new horizons Corwins visionary talent will create for the company. Heatwole will oversee a committee of the board focused on regenerative agriculture and farming innovation, two of his deep passions.

Walker added, The board has been impressed by the leadership exhibited by Farmer Focus President & COO, Stephen J. Shepard. We are confident that in his tenure as CEO, Stephen will lead the business as he leads his life  with conviction, humility, and unparalleled drive. Shepards extensive experience in the poultry industry is matched only by his passion for it; he is widely regarded as both a thought leader and change agent.

Shepard said, I am grateful for the organization Corwin built and the mission that unites our Farmer Focus team. I am humbled to serve as CEO, and I commit to serve, to the best of my ability, our team members, farm partners, customers, and consumers. Our mission remains: Promote and protect generational family farms. I look forward to working with the executive team to grow our business in new channels and categories to allow us to welcome more farmers into our community.

Farmer Focus was founded in Harrisonburg, VA as Shenandoah Valley Organic in 2014. The company is an innovator in the poultry space due its Farmer-First business model that pays farmers well above the industry average, allows full product traceability, and ensures adherence to strict animal welfare standards. Due to increasing consumer demand, Farmer Focus is on track to double its revenue by the end of 2024.

For more information or media requests, please contact Mark Saylor at mark.saylor@farmerfocus.com.

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ALBUQUERQUE, N.M., Aug. 29, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Associa Canyon Gate (ACG), a leading provider of community management services throughout the Albuquerque and Santa Fe areas of New Mexico and El Paso, Texas, region, recently partnered with the Toscana at Cabezon Homeowners Association to host a community-wide safety event in conjunction with the 2023 National Night Out (NNO). The branch and association board members organized the event to promote neighborhood solidarity, resident safety, and police-community partnerships. Residents and neighbors attended the event, which featured a bounce house, two food trucks, beverages, and a visit from local first responders.

As the community management industrys sole national sponsor of NNO, Associa works closely with its respective community partners through Associa Supports Kids (ASK), a community outreach program, to educate parents and children on the importance of neighborhood safety. Tens of thousands of ASK giveaway items are provided annually to NNO event attendees who attend both Associa-managed and non-Associa managed community safety events.

NNO takes place on the first Tuesday in August throughout all 50 U.S. states, territories, and on military bases worldwide. Texas and other selected regions celebrate the first Tuesday in October for heat-related reasons. Associa sponsored a total of 104 events in August and looks forward to working with many more Associa-managed communities on Tuesday, October 3 as part of Texas NNO. The goal of all the programs is to promote neighborhood camaraderie and inclusiveness to help make communities safer, more caring places to live.

About Associa

With more than 275 branch offices across North America, Associa is building the future of community for more than 6.5 million residents worldwide. Our 14,000+ team members lead the industry with unrivaled education, expertise, and trailblazing innovation. For more than 44 years, Associa has brought positive impact and meaningful value to communities. To learn more, visit www.associaonline.com.

Stay Connected

Like us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/associa

Subscribe to the Blog: https://hub.associaonline.com/

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Join us on LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/company/associa

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New York, Aug. 29, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Reportlinker.com announces the release of the report "Cancer Vaccines Market Report 2023-2033" - https://www.reportlinker.com/p06488214/?utm_source=GNW





The Cancer Vaccines Market Report 2023-2033: This report will prove invaluable to leading firms striving for new revenue pockets if they wish to better understand the industry and its underlying dynamics. It will be useful for companies that would like to expand into different industries or to expand their existing operations in a new region.





Adoption of Technology in Drug Development to Create Market Opportunities for Cancer Vaccines



The adoption of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in cancer vaccine development has revolutionized the field of oncology. AI-driven technologies enable researchers to analyze vast amounts of genetic and molecular data, identifying potential cancer antigens and predicting the most suitable targets for vaccines. This streamlined approach accelerates the discovery process and allows for personalized cancer vaccines tailored to individual patients. Additionally, AI algorithms aid in the optimization of vaccine formulations, enhancing their effectiveness and safety profiles. By harnessing the power of AI, scientists can expedite the development and testing of innovative cancer vaccines, providing new hope for more effective and targeted treatments in the fight against cancer. For instance, in terms of information and communication technologies, NEC Corporation has been in the forefront. It is currently steadily improving its decades-old artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities to quickly handle complex social concerns. The business is now using this acquired knowledge to tackle the problem of using AI to provide fully individualised medicines for cancer patients.





Stringent Regulatory Guidelines and Extended Timelines in the Manufacturing Process of Cancer Vaccines Likely to Challenge Industry Growth



The manufacturing process of cancer vaccines faces several challenges, including stringent regulatory guidelines and longer timelines. These factors significantly impact the development, production, and commercialization of cancer vaccines.





Regulatory agencies, such as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the European Medicines Agency (EMA), impose rigorous requirements to ensure the safety, efficacy, and quality of vaccines. The extensive documentation, comprehensive clinical trial data, and adherence to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) are prerequisites for regulatory approval.





The manufacturing process of cancer vaccines is inherently complex and time-consuming, leading to extended timelines for their development and commercialization. Cancer vaccine development involves conducting multiple phases of clinical trials to establish safety, efficacy, and immunogenicity. The stringent regulatory guidelines demand robust trial design, patient recruitment, and meticulous data collection and analysis. This extensive clinical trial process can significantly prolong the overall manufacturing timeline.





What Questions Should You Ask before Buying a Market Research Report?



 How is the cancer vaccines market evolving?



 What is driving and restraining the cancer vaccines market?



 How will each cancer vaccines submarket segment grow over the forecast period and how much revenue will these submarkets account for in 2033?



 How will the market shares for each cancer vaccines submarket develop from 2023 to 2033?



 What will be the main driver for the overall market from 2023 to 2033?



 Will leading cancer vaccines markets broadly follow the macroeconomic dynamics, or will individual national markets outperform others?



 How will the market shares of the national markets change by 2033 and which geographical region will lead the market in 2033?



 Who are the leading players and what are their prospects over the forecast period?



 What are the cancer vaccines projects for these leading companies?



 How will the industry evolve during the period between 2023 and 2033? What are the implications of cancer vaccines projects taking place now and over the next 10 years?



 Is there a greater need for product commercialisation to further scale the cancer vaccines market?



 Where is the cancer vaccines market heading and how can you ensure you are at the forefront of the market?



 What are the best investment options for new product and service lines?



 What are the key prospects for moving companies into a new growth path and C-suite?





You need to discover how this will impact the Cancer Vaccines Market today, and over the next 10 years:



 Our 235-page report provides 97 tables and 157 charts/graphs exclusively to you.



 The report highlights key lucrative areas in the industry so you can target them  NOW.



 It contains in-depth analysis of global, regional and national sales and growth.



 It highlights for you the key successful trends, changes and revenue projections made by your competitors.





This report tells you TODAY how the Cancer Vaccines market will develop in the next 10 years, and in line with the variations in COVID-19 economic recession and bounce. This market is more critical now than at any point over the last 10 years.





Forecasts to 2033 and other analyses reveal commercial prospects



 In addition to revenue forecasting to 2033, our new study provides you with recent results, growth rates, and market shares.



 You will find original analyses, with business outlooks and developments.



 Discover qualitative analyses (including market dynamics, drivers, opportunities, restraints and challenges), cost structure, impact of rising Cancer Vaccines prices and recent developments.





This report includes data analysis and invaluable insight into how COVID-19 will affect the industry and your company. Four COVID-19 recovery patterns and their impact, namely, V, L, W and U are discussed in this report.





Segments Covered in the Report





Type



 Preventive Vaccines



 Therapeutic Vaccines





Technology



 Dendritic Cells



 Recombinant



 Antigen/Adjuvant



 Viral Vector and DNA



 Whole-cell





Indications



 Cervical Cancer



 Prostate Cancer



 Other Indications





End-users



 Paediatrics



 Adults





In addition to the revenue predictions for the overall world market and segments, you will also find revenue forecasts for five regional and 21 leading national markets:





North America



 U.S.



 Canada





Europe



 Germany



 UK



 France



 Spain



 Italy



 Russia



 Rest of Europe





Asia Pacific



 China



 Japan



 India



 Australia



 South Korea



 Rest of Asia Pacific





Latin America



 Brazil



 Mexico



 Rest of Latin America





MEA



 GCC



 South Africa



 Rest of MEA





The report also includes profiles and for some of the leading companies in the Cancer Vaccines Market, 2023 to 2033, with a focus on this segment of these companies operations.





Leading companies and the potential for market growth



 Amgen Inc.



 AstraZeneca



 Dendreon Pharmaceuticals LLC



 F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd



 GSK plc



 Merck and Co., Inc.



 Moderna, Inc.



 OSE Immunotherapeutics



 Synthaverse S.A. (Biomed-Lublin)



 Walvax Biotechnology Co. Ltd.





Overall world revenue for Cancer Vaccines Market, 2023 to 2033 in terms of value the market will surpass US$8,060 million in 2023, our work calculates. We predict strong revenue growth through to 2033. Our work identifies which organizations hold the greatest potential. Discover their capabilities, progress, and commercial prospects, helping you stay ahead.





How will the Cancer Vaccines Market, 2023 to 2033 report help you?



In summary, our 230+ page report provides you with the following knowledge:





 Revenue forecasts to 2033 for Cancer Vaccines Market, 2023 to 2033 Market, with forecasts for type, technology, indications, and end-users, each forecast at a global and regional level  discover the industrys prospects, finding the most lucrative places for investments and revenues.





 Revenue forecasts to 2033 for five regional and 21 key national markets  See forecasts for the Cancer Vaccines Market, 2023 to 2033 market in North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and MEA. Also forecasted is the market in the US, Canada, Mexico, Brazil, Germany, France, UK, Italy, China, India, Japan, and Australia among other prominent economies.





 Prospects for established firms and those seeking to enter the market  including company profiles for 10 of the major companies involved in the Cancer Vaccines Market, 2023 to 2033.



Read the full report: https://www.reportlinker.com/p06488214/?utm_source=GNW



About Reportlinker

ReportLinker is an award-winning market research solution. Reportlinker finds and organizes the latest industry data so you get all the market research you need - instantly, in one place.



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Dallas, Aug. 29, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Dickeys Barbecue Pit is helping families enjoy the back to school, back to busy season with its Family Packs and Kids Eat Free on Sundays.

The hustle of the new school year has commenced, and Dickeys continues its tradition of helping families around the country ease into those hectic school nights filled with sports, homework and of course, cooking dinner for the family. Luckily for barbecue fans, the Texas-style barbecue brand offers their guests a variety of Family Packs to relieve the stress of weeknight dinners. These pit-smoked packs are $5 off using code 5OFFPACKS when oredering and are offered in a variety of sizes to fit groups both large and small. The pack options consist of:

Family Pack (starting at $61.60)  two choices of meats, three large sides and six slices of Texas toast. Feeds four to six.

two choices of meats, three large sides and six slices of Texas toast. Feeds four to six. XL Pack (starting at $84)  three choices of meats, four large sides, eight slices of Texas toast. Feeds six to eight.

three choices of meats, four large sides, eight slices of Texas toast. Feeds six to eight. BYB Wings & Ribs Party Pack (starting at $134.40) - A combination of 18 ribs and 24 wings, mac and cheese, coleslaw, rolls, and barbecue sauce with ranch dressing.

A combination of 18 ribs and 24 wings, mac and cheese, coleslaw, rolls, and barbecue sauce with ranch dressing. BYB Original Party Pack (starting at $140)  Enjoy two lbs. of pulled pork, 2 lbs. of chopped brisket, large coleslaw, large barbecue beans, large potato salad, rolls, relish and sauce. Feeds 10-12.

At Dickeys, we know how busy back to school can be, said Laura Rea Dickey, CEO of Dickeys Barbecue Restaurants, Inc. And thats why we provide our guests with quick and easy, pit-smoked barbecue dinner options that are sure to satisfy their hungry families. So, let us do the cooking!

Additionally, every Sunday at Dickeys, KIDS EAT FREE with a $12 minimum purchase, in store. So, next time you gather your family, start the school year off right with Dickeys Barbecue Pits Legit. Texas. Barbecue.

To learn more, follow Dickeys Barbecue Pit on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. Download the Dickeys Barbecue Pit App from the Apple App Store or Google Play.

To learn more about Dickeys Virtual Concepts follow: Wing Boss on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok , Trailer Birds on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok and Big Deal Burger on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok .

About Dickeys Barbecue Restaurants, Inc.

Dickey's Barbecue Restaurants, Inc., the worlds largest barbecue concept, was founded in 1941 by the Dickey family. For the past 80 years, Dickeys Barbecue Pit has served millions of guests in 44 states Legit. Texas. Barbecue. At Dickeys, all our barbecued meats are smoked onsite in a hickory wood burning pit. Dickeys proudly believes theres no shortcut to true barbecue and its why our name isnt BBQ. The Dallas-based, family-run barbecue franchise offers eight slow-smoked meats and 12 wholesome sides with 'No B.S. (Bad Stuff)' included. Dickeys Barbecue has 550 locations across the United States and eight other countries.

Dickeys was named to Newsweeks 2022 Americas Favorite Restaurant Chains list and USA Today 2021 readers choice awards. Dickeys won first place on Fast Casuals Top 100 Movers and Shakers list, been named a Top 500 Franchise by Entrepreneur and named to Hospitality Technologys Industry Heroes list. Led by CEO Laura Rea Dickey, who was named among the countrys 50 most influential women in foodservice in Nations Restaurant News, was recognized by Fast Casuals Top 100 Movers and Shakers list and honored by Dallas Business Journal. Dickey's Barbecue Pit has also been recognized by Fox News, Forbes Magazine, Franchise Times, The Dallas Morning News, The Wall Street Journal, People Magazine and QSR Magazine. Dickeys Barbecue is part of Dickeys Restaurant Brands which has more than 700 restaurants nationwide including brands Wing Boss, Trailer Birds, Big Deal Burger and bbqathome.com. DRB is led by CEO Roland Dickey Jr. For more information, visit www.dickeys.com.

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New York, Aug. 29, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Reportlinker.com announces the release of the report "Ophthalmic Drugs Contract Manufacturing Market Report 2023-2033" - https://www.reportlinker.com/p06488206/?utm_source=GNW





The Ophthalmic Drugs Contract Manufacturing Market Report 2023-2033: This report will prove invaluable to leading firms striving for new revenue pockets if they wish to better understand the industry and its underlying dynamics. It will be useful for companies that would like to expand into different industries or to expand their existing operations in a new region.





Factors Such As increasing prevalence of ophthalmic disorders and cost efficiency provided by CDMOs are driving the market growth



Several important elements that support the expansion and significance of the ophthalmic drugs contract manufacturing market in the pharmaceutical industry. One of the main causes is the rising incidence of ocular conditions like age-related macular degeneration (AMD), glaucoma, cataracts, and dry eye syndrome. Pharmaceutical companies are looking for effective drug manufacturing solutions as the aging population increases and lifestyle habit changes and there is an increasing need for effective pharmaceuticals to treat and maintain these eye problems.





Additionally, by outsourcing manufacturing to the CDMOs, enables pharmaceutical businesses to concentrate on their core capabilities, such as research and marketing. This strategic partnership shortens the time of ophthalmic medications to reach the market and thereby streamlining drug development process. Modern technologies and strong quality control procedures used by CDMOs guarantee the creation of high-quality medicines that satisfy market needs and regulatory requirements.





Economical effectiveness one of the major factor driving these companies to adopt CDMO services as it takes a significant financial investment in staff, facilities, and equipment to develop new pharmaceutical goods. Companies want to reduce the overall the cost and labour costs through outsourcing to the CDMOs.





Since CDMOs already have the necessary resources and knowledge, producing drugs, it turns to be a less expensive and involves fewer risks for investors.





Complex regulatory framework may pose as challenges in the ophthalmic drugs contract manufacturing market



Noncompliance with regulatory standards and poor pharmaceutical quality can have severe consequences for a business and its brand reputation. Therefore, adherence to regulatory rules is crucial in the pharmaceutical industry. Contract development and manufacturing organizations (CDMOs) face challenges in ensuring compliance with varying regulatory requirements across different regions and countries, particularly in the ophthalmic drug contract manufacturing industry.



As pharmaceutical companies outsource drug manufacturing to specialized CDMOs focusing on ophthalmic products, they encounter a complex web of diverse regulatory frameworks. Each region has its distinct guidelines, standards, and procedures governing various aspects of ophthalmic drug manufacturing and distribution. This includes quality control, safety assessments, and labelling, packaging, and distribution practices. Complying with these unique requirements demands a meticulous approach from contract manufacturers to ensure full compliance with the specific regulations of the markets they serve. This aspect could potentially limit the expansion of the pharmaceutical CDMO market in the coming years.





What Questions Should You Ask before Buying a Market Research Report?



 How is the ophthalmic drugs contract manufacturing market evolving?



 What is driving and restraining the ophthalmic drugs contract manufacturing market?



 How will each ophthalmic drugs contract manufacturing submarket segment grow over the forecast period and how much revenue will these submarkets account for in 2033?



 How will the market shares for each ophthalmic drugs contract manufacturing submarket develop from 2023 to 2033?



 What will be the main driver for the overall market from 2023 to 2033?



 Will leading ophthalmic drugs contract manufacturing markets broadly follow the macroeconomic dynamics, or will individual national markets outperform others?



 How will the market shares of the national markets change by 2033 and which geographical region will lead the market in 2033?



 Who are the leading players and what are their prospects over the forecast period?



 How will the industry evolve during the period between 2023 and 2033? What are the implications of ophthalmic drugs contract manufacturing projects taking place now and over the next 10 years?



 Is there a greater need for product commercialisation to further scale the ophthalmic drugs contract manufacturing market?



 Where is the ophthalmic drugs contract manufacturing market heading and how can you ensure you are at the forefront of the market?



 What are the best investment options for new product and service lines?



 What are the key prospects for moving companies into a new growth path and C-suite?





You need to discover how this will impact the Ophthalmic Drugs Contract Manufacturing market today, and over the next 10 years:



 Our 334-page report provides 122 tables, 174 charts/graphs exclusively to you.



 The report highlights key lucrative areas in the industry so you can target them  NOW.



 It contains in-depth analysis of global, regional and national sales and growth.



 It highlights for you the key successful trends, changes and revenue projections made by your competitors.





This report tells you TODAY how the ophthalmic drugs contract manufacturing market will develop in the next 10 years, and in line with the variations in COVID-19 economic recession and bounce. This market is more critical now than at any point over the last 10 years.





Forecasts to 2033 and other analyses reveal commercial prospects



 In addition to revenue forecasting to 2033, our new study provides you with recent results, growth rates, and market shares.



 You will find original analyses, with business outlooks and developments.



 Discover qualitative analyses (including market dynamics, drivers, opportunities, restraints and challenges), cost structure, impact of rising ophthalmic drugs contract manufacturing prices and recent developments.





This report includes data analysis and invaluable insight into how COVID-19 will affect the industry and your company. Four COVID-19 recovery patterns and their impact, namely, V, L, W and U are discussed in this report.





Segments Covered in the Report





Product Type



 API



 FDFs





Primary Packaging Type



 Ampoules and Vials



 Glass and Plastic Bottles



 Ointment Tubes



 Others





Scale of Manufacturing



 Preclinical



 Clinical



 Commercial





Company Size



 Small Sized



 Mid Sized



 Large Sized





Indication



 Age-Related Macular Degeneration



 Glaucoma



 Uveitis



 Dry Eye Disease



 Others





In addition to the revenue predictions for the overall world market and segments, you will also find revenue forecasts for four regional and 20 leading national markets:





North America



 U.S.



 Canada





Europe



 Germany



 Spain



 UK



 France



 Italy



 Rest of Europe





Asia Pacific



 China



 Japan



 India



 Australia



 South Korea



 Rest of Asia Pacific





Latin America



 Brazil



 Mexico



 Rest of Latin America





MEA



 GCC Countries



 South Africa



 Rest of MEA





The report also includes profiles and for some of the leading companies in the Ophthalmic Drugs Contract Manufacturing Market, 2023 to 2033, with a focus on this segment of these companies operations.





Leading companies and the potential for market growth



 Abbvie Inc.



 Catalent Inc.



 Eurofins Scientific



 Glenmark Pharmaceuticals



 Jubilant HollisterStier LLC



 Laboratorios Salvat, S.A.



 Lonza



 Merck KGaA



 Pillar5 Pharma



 Recipharm



 Siegfried Holding AG



 Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc.



 Unither Pharmaceuticals





Overall world revenue for Ophthalmic Drugs Contract Manufacturing market, 2023 to 2033 in terms of value the market will surpass US$3,683.4 million in 2022, our work calculates. We predict strong revenue growth through to 2033. Our work identifies which organizations hold the greatest potential. Discover their capabilities, progress, and commercial prospects, helping you stay ahead.





How will the Ophthalmic Drugs Contract Manufacturing market, 2023 to 2033 report help you?



In summary, our 330+ page report provides you with the following knowledge:





 Revenue forecasts to 2033 for Ophthalmic Drugs Contract Manufacturing market, 2023 to 2033 Market, with forecasts for mode of delivery, clinical trial phase, therapeutic area, end users and company size, each forecast at a global and regional level  discover the industrys prospects, finding the most lucrative places for investments and revenues.





 Revenue forecasts to 2033 for five regional and 20 key national markets  See forecasts for the Ophthalmic Drugs Contract Manufacturing Market, 2023 to 2033 market in North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America and MEA. Also forecasted is the market in the US, Canada, Mexico, Brazil, Germany, France, UK, Italy, China, India, Japan, and Australia among other prominent economies.





 Prospects for established firms and those seeking to enter the market  including company profiles for 10 of the major companies involved in the Ophthalmic Drugs Contract Manufacturing market, 2023 to 2033.





Read the full report: https://www.reportlinker.com/p06488206/?utm_source=GNW



About Reportlinker

ReportLinker is an award-winning market research solution. Reportlinker finds and organizes the latest industry data so you get all the market research you need - instantly, in one place.



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Davenport, Iowa, Aug. 29, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The return of students to classrooms and campuses is providing new opportunities for ImpactLife to educate and engage the next generation of blood donors. With the start of the new school year, the not-for-profit community blood center is working with student-led blood drive committees on logistics and planning for blood drives, as well as donor recruitment and event management aspects for each collection event. Increased donor engagement in schools follows several weeks of low donations in late summer that has left ImpactLife with a critical need for type O-negative, type O-positive, type B-negative, and type B-positive red blood cells. (All are at just a 1-day supply as of Aug. 29, 2023.) Platelet donations from all blood types are also greatly needed.

To find an ImpactLife Donor Center location or mobile blood drive, call (800) 747-5401, schedule online at www.bloodcenter.org/locations or via the ImpactLife mobile app (www.bloodcenter.org/app).

ImpactLife works with schools and student organizations throughout the school year, with the education sector providing more than 25,000 registered donors at 825 collection events held during the 2022-23 school year. The loss of school blood drives during the summer months is a primary reason that the rate of blood donation decreases by as much as 20% in June, July, and August.

Holly Yates, Director, Donor Relations, says organizing and promoting a blood drive provides an important service-learning opportunity. "Our blood drive committees help develop good time management, planning, and communication skills, said Yates. Students will use these skills throughout their further education and careers. And for many students, once they have worked on their school blood drive, it helps them become lifelong donors or advocates for our mission.

ImpactLife education sector programs:

LifeSavings Grant Program (www.bloodcenter.org/lifesavings)

Primary and secondary schools that host blood drives qualify for ImpactLife's LifeSavings grant program. Qualifying blood drives that collect at least 20 donations can apply to receive a grant of $250 (plus one dollar for each donation) that can be used to fund scholarships, make a charitable donation, provide for classroom or curriculum needs, or help defray expenses related to the blood drive.

Student Impact Award (www.bloodcenter.org/award)

Students who give blood, recruit donors, and/or organize blood drives qualify to receive the Student Impact Award. Recipients must earn six credits towards the award before high school graduation by donating blood (one credit per donation), recruiting a new or lapsed donor (one credit per donor), volunteering for blood drive planning (one credit per blood drive) or by serving as a Blood Drive Coordinator (six credits per blood drive). At the end of the 2022 school year, ImpactLife recognized 271 High School Impact Award winners from 161 high schools from across the blood centers service region.

College / University ABO Initiative (www.bloodcenter.org/ABO)

The ABO Initiative provides resources to connect and engage college students and university partners on the importance of blood donation. This includes support for Registered Student Organizations on college and university campuses, on-campus blood drives, and internship opportunities.

Good Giving: Donors support AdoptAClassroom.org

Now through September 10, all registered donors will receive a voucher to redeem for the donors choice of an electronic gift card or an equivalent value contribution to AdoptAClassroom.org.

ImpactLife Donor Rewards (through Sept. 10)

Whole blood donations at mobile blood drives: $10 gift card OR $10 AdoptAClassroom.org donation

Whole blood donations at ImpactLife donor center locations: $25 gift card OR $25 AdoptAClassroom.org donation

First-time donation with ImpactLife (donor center locations and mobile blood drives): $50 gift card OR $50 AdoptAClassroom.org donation

Platelet, plasma, or double red cell donations: $25 gift card OR $25 AdoptAClassroom.org donation

First or second time platelet donation: $50 gift card OR $50 AdoptAClassroom.org donation

About AdoptAClassroom.org

AdoptAClassroom.org believes every child deserves the tools and materials they need to learn and thrive in school. To achieve this, teachers are spending an average of $860 of their own money each year on their classrooms. AdoptAClassroom.org is a national nonprofit that funds PreK-12 teachers and schools across the U.S. to help equip more classrooms and students for success, and offset the financial burden on teachers. Since 1998, AdoptAClassroom.org has raised $65 million and equipped more than 6.4 million students across the U.S. The 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization holds the highest 4-star rating from Charity Navigator and the highest transparency rating offered by Candid/GuideStar. For more information, see www.bloodcenter.org/teach.

About ImpactLife

ImpactLife is a not-for-profit community organization providing blood services and emergency services providers to 124 hospitals in Illinois, Iowa, Missouri, and Wisconsin, as well as resource sharing partners across the country. Services extend from southcentral Wisconsin to St. Louis, Missouri and from Danville, Illinois to Chariton, Iowa. (See a map of the ImpactLife service region.) ImpactLife operates 22 Donor Centers and holds approximately 5000 mobile blood drives annually to provide blood components needed for patient transfusions at hospitals throughout our region.

For more information, see www.bloodcenter.org and find us @impactlifeblood on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, TikTok, Twitter, Snapchat, and YouTube.

-end-

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New York, Aug. 29, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Reportlinker.com announces the release of the report "Global Wireless Network Security Market Size, Share & Industry Trends Analysis Report By Component, By Enterprise Size, By Deployment Type, By End-use, By Regional Outlook and Forecast, 2023 - 2030" - https://www.reportlinker.com/p06488134/?utm_source=GNW

The encryption segment acquired $3,029.4 million revenue in 2022 as the organizations employ encryption software to safeguard data transfers from one remote location and overcome the risk of cyber-attacks. The fundamental objective of encryption software is to improve data security from unauthorized users.



The major strategies followed by the market participants are Partnerships as the key developmental strategy to keep pace with the changing demands of end users. For instance, In October, 2022, Aruba, a Hewlett Packard Enterprise company formed a partnership with Siemens to support clients by providing customers with data networks that are highly dependable, secure, and insightful, ensuring high plant and network availability. Additionally, In February, 2023, Juniper Networks expanded its partnership with IBM to empower communications service providers (CSPs) in the delivery improved experience to mobile users through advanced automation.



Based on the Analysis presented in the KBV Cardinal matrix; Cisco Systems, Inc. and Broadcom, Inc. are the forerunners in the Market. In February, 2023, Cisco entered into collaboration with STC for accelerating the rollout of the newest wave of safe, nimble digital services. Companies such as Aruba Networks, Motorola Solutions, Inc., Fortinet, Inc. are some of the key innovators in the Market.



Market Growth Factors



IoT usage in smart homes is expanding



Customers who buy wireless security camera systems can use their smartphones and tablets to remotely access safety, security, video, audio, and alarm systems. The device also contains a wide-angle lens, night vision, and two-way audio. Several aspects of everyday life in the home, such as pet feeding and lighting control, are intended to be automated via the Internet of Things. Options are available for the cameras hardware and software. The security camera will immediately identify any breach or intrusion within the home. There are numerous varieties of security cameras. The cameras in-built light sensors aid in both accident and intruder prevention. With this wide adoption of smart home appliances, risk of security arises which open growth prospects for the market.



Retail is anticipated to contribute significantly to market growth



In the past few years, the retail sector has expanded substantially due to the rapid globalization of the e-commerce sector. Therefore, to acquire a competitive edge, retailers are implementing IoT solutions to boost operational effectiveness and improve the consumer experience. The demand for wireless security is anticipated to rise during the expected time frame due to the growing use of IoT in the retail sector. Many European stores are installing small, programmable IoT-connected dashboards or buttons to collect client input and use the results to improve customer experiences. The market is projected to develop as more retailers adopt IoT technologies.



Market Restraining Factors



Low security budgets by businesses may impact the market



Almost all businesses struggle to deal with threats and lack real data security. Despite this, businesses continue to neglect network security solutions. Additionally, these solutions have a high initial setup cost and requires ongoing maintenance, which is predicted to delay its acceptance for a short while. Small & medium businesses can implement cost-effective security solutions depending on their requirements and company operations, despite the high cost of solutions and rising instances of assaults. Due to a lack of adequate IT security infrastructures caused by their lower financial capacity, these businesses slowly implement new technologies and enterprise security solutions. Small enterprises must properly manage budget funds set aside for various operational issues and business continuity planning, diverting attention away from adopting wireless network security solutions.



Component Outlook



On the basis of component, the market is segmented into solution, and services. The services segment acquired a substantial revenue share in the market in 2022. The significant rise of the segment may be attributable to the increase in end-user companies desire for managed & professional services to deploy, upgrade, and maintain wireless network security systems at the lowest possible cost. Advanced investigating, advising, routine maintenance, cloud migration, network administration, and unified communications are some of the services primary strengths.



Solution Outlook



Under solution type, the market is further divided into encryption, firewall, identity & access management, Intrusion Prevention System (IPS)/Intrusion Detection System (IDS), united threat solutions, and others. The united threat solution segment covered a considerable revenue share in the market in 2022. United threat solution provides solutions to threats and is considered an improvement over the conventional firewall in a security product capable of carrying out many different security tasks, including content filtering, load balancing, network firewalling, data leak prevention, and network hacking prevention.



Enterprise Size Outlook



On the basis of enterprise size, the market is categorised into large enterprises, and small and medium-sized enterprises. In 2022, the large enterprise segment registered the highest revenue share in the market. The wireless network is a target for several cyberattacks, data breaches, and other harmful acts against large businesses. These businesses may suffer large financial losses because of data theft. In order to prevent this, the majority of large enterprises utilize wireless network security solutions to safeguard their sensitive data & control data transfer via a variety of devices, hence encouraging the segments expansion.



Deployment Type Outlook



Based on deployment type, the market is classified into cloud, and on-premises. The cloud segment garnered a significant revenue share in the market in 2022. Due to numerous benefits, including low maintenance costs, increased flexibility, centralized data protection, and rapid application development, cloud-based wireless network security solutions are expanding significantly. Eliminating extra software or hardware requirements for managing wireless network security solutions with cloud-based solutions creates a bright outlook for the segments growth.



End-use Outlook



By end-use, the market is segmented into BFSI, retail, IT & telecom, healthcare, manufacturing, government & defense, and others. The retail segment projected a prominent revenue share in the market in 2022. The enormous development of the global e-commerce business is impacting the retail sector. As a result, retailers use IoT solutions to boost operational effectiveness and customer satisfaction to gain a competitive advantage. During the forecast period, the retail sector will likely use the Internet of Things more frequently, which will likely lead to a boost in demand for wireless security.



Regional Outlook



Region wise, the market is analysed across North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, and LAMEA. In 2022, the North America region led the market by generating highest revenue share. The growing acceptance of the BYOD concept, increased security breaches, and the presence of experienced market players are driving factors in the North American market. Additionally, numerous end-user businesses from numerous industries, including BFSI, retail, and healthcare, are investing in cybersecurity to safeguard their corporate data from growing digital threats in this region, favourably impacting the market.



The market research report covers the analysis of key stake holders of the market. Key companies profiled in the report include Check Point Software Technologies Ltd., Aruba Networks (Hewlett Packard Enterprise Company), Kaspersky Lab, Cisco Systems, Inc., Fortinet, Inc., Juniper Networks, Inc., Motorola Solutions, Inc., Sophos Group PLC (Thoma Bravo), Broadcom, Inc. (Symantec Corporation) and Trend Micro Inc.



Recent Strategies Deployed in Wireless Network Security Market



Partnerships, Collaboration and Agreements:



Jun-2023: Check Point Software Technologies Ltd. formed a partnership with TELUS, a Canadian multinational publicly traded holding company. With this partnership, the company aimed to combine its advanced technological capabilities with TELUS expertise in managed security services, to release TELUS Cloud Security Posture Management (CSPM) service in Canada.



Jun-2023: Check Point Software Technologies Ltd. joined hands with Everphone, a leading provider of Device as a Service (DaaS). The collaboration aimed to help defend enterprises from increasing cyber risks by combining Everphones DaaS solution with Harmony Mobiles strong protection.



Feb-2023: Cisco entered into collaboration with STC, which offers a variety of ICT solutions and digital services. Through this partnership, our Telco Cloud solution will help in accelerating the rollout of the newest wave of safe, nimble digital services.



Feb-2023: Juniper Networks expanded its partnership with IBM, a technological corporation, to provide an integrated RAN management platform. With this expansion of the partnership, integrating IBMs network automation offerings with Junipers Radio Access Network (RAN)optimization and Open Radio Access Network (O-RAN) technology power develop an integrated RAN management platform that would be helpful for IBM to empower communications service providers (CSPs) in the delivery improved experience to mobile users through advanced automation.



Nov-2022: Check Point Software Technologies Ltd. teamed up with Network Perception, innovators of operational technology (OT) solutions. The company will integrate security technologies and offers a solution to verify access to ports and services across different trust zones to protect mission-critical assets.



Oct-2022: Aruba, a Hewlett Packard Enterprise company formed a partnership with Siemens, a technology company focused on the digital transformation of industry and infrastructure. The company aimed to support clients by providing customers with data networks that are highly dependable, secure, and insightful, ensuring high plant and network availability. Based on Siemens experience as a leading supplier of industrial Ethernet network components and Arubas knowledge as a leader in wired and wireless LAN infrastructure, customers benefit from integrated networks with proven interoperability from factory floors to corporate offices.



Oct-2022: Cisco formed a partnership with the University of Canberra. The partnership would enable the company to boost the adoption of technology and address major risks to the Australian economy and society by addressing the cybersecurity skills shortage.



Aug-2022: Fortinet, Inc. announced a partnership with NEC Corporation, a Japanese IT company, to develop solutions for secure 5G networks. The partnership would allow Fortinet to serve its customers in a better way by providing them with solutions for secure 5G adoption.



Feb-2022: Check Point Software Technologies partnered with Redington India Limited, the largest IT software and products distributor in India. The company would offer Enterprise-grade security to SMB customers with an easy-to-manage, deploy, and affordable solution.



Nov-2021: Fortinet collaborated with Microsoft, an American multinational technology corporation. With this collaboration, the company aimed to integrate Microsoft Azure Virtual WAN to deliver a next-generation firewall (NGFW) and enhance its ability to secure any application on any cloud and to secure the cloud on-ramp into, between, and within the cloud.



Jul-2021: Trend Micro Incorporated teamed up with Microsoft, an America-based multinational technology corporation. Together, the companies focused to offer greater impact in cybersecurity for the combined customers that allows digital transformation for them by using Trend Micros expansive security expertise and Azures cloud computing platform. Moreover, the companies aimed to develop cloud-based cybersecurity solutions on Microsoft Azure as well as give rise to co-selling opportunities.



Product Launch and Product Expansions:



Feb-2023: Cisco launched two new services in its cloud managing network including Cisco Cyber Vision and Secure Equipment Access Plus. The launch of these two new solutions is aimed to provide organizations with the tools necessary for a unified, cloud-delivered strategy that leverages the strength of the enterprise IT network to scale and secure the industrial edge thanks to these new advances.



Feb-2023: Fortinet, Inc. unveiled FortiSP5, a distributed edge security solution. The FortiSP5 features Secure boot, Volumetric DDoS protection, and VXLAN/GRE hardware-accelerated encapsulation. Furthermore, FortiSP5 can be used for five applications namely, Campus, Edge Compute, 5G, and Operational Technology.



Feb-2022: Juniper Networks, Inc. introduced Juniper Secure Edge, a Firewall service used for securing workforces. The benefits of the service include Validated security effectiveness, Dynamic Zero Trust segmentation, Unified policy management, and Secure user access from anywhere.



May-2021: Aruba, a Hewlett Packard Enterprise company, unveiled Wi-Fi 6E, the 630 Series of campus access points (APs). The new product uses the 6 GHz band. The amount of RF spectrum available for Wi-Fi use more than doubles with the opening of the 6 GHz band, allowing for less crowded airwaves, bigger channels, and faster connections as well as enabling a variety of advances across industries.



Acquisitions and Merger:



Dec-2022: Motorola Solutions acquired Rave Mobile Safety, a leader in mass notification and incident management. The acquisition of Rave complements the portfolio of the company with a platform specifically designed to help individuals, businesses, and public safety agencies work together in more powerful ways.



Feb-2022: Juniper Networks, Inc. completed the acquisition of WiteSand, a Zero Trust Network Access solutions provider. The acquisition complements Junipers enterprise portfolio. Furthermore, the acquisition brings with it Network Access Control solutions that would benefit Juniper.



Scope of the Study



Market Segments covered in the Report:



By Component



 Solution



o Firewall



o Identity & Access Management



o Encryption



o Intrusion Prevention System (IPS)/Intrusion Detection System (IDS)



o Unified Threat Solutions



o Others



 Services



By Enterprise Size



 Large Enterprises



 Small & Medium Enterprises



By Deployment Type



 On premise



 Cloud



By End-use



 BFSI



 Government & Defense



 IT & Telecom



 Healthcare & Lifesciences



 Retail



 Manufacturing



 Others



By Geography



 North America



o US



o Canada



o Mexico



o Rest of North America



 Europe



o Germany



o UK



o France



o Russia



o Spain



o Italy



o Rest of Europe



 Asia Pacific



o China



o Japan



o India



o South Korea



o Singapore



o Malaysia



o Rest of Asia Pacific



 LAMEA



o Brazil



o Argentina



o UAE



o Saudi Arabia



o South Africa



o Nigeria



o Rest of LAMEA



Companies Profiled



 Check Point Software Technologies Ltd.



 Aruba Networks (Hewlett Packard Enterprise Company)



 Kaspersky Lab



 Cisco Systems, Inc.



 Fortinet, Inc.



 Juniper Networks, Inc.



 Motorola Solutions, Inc.



 Sophos Group PLC (Thoma Bravo)



 Broadcom, Inc. (Symantec Corporation)



 Trend Micro Inc.



Unique Offerings



 Exhaustive coverage



 Highest number of market tables and figures



 Subscription based model available



 Guaranteed best price



 Assured post sales research support with 10% customization free

Read the full report: https://www.reportlinker.com/p06488134/?utm_source=GNW



About Reportlinker

ReportLinker is an award-winning market research solution. Reportlinker finds and organizes the latest industry data so you get all the market research you need - instantly, in one place.



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Belleville, Illinois, Aug. 29, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Recent research on the effects of rheumatoid arthritis treatment highlights the challenges of treating chronic health conditions and the importance of seeking Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits as vital income during the effort to reach medical stability or recovery, according to Allsup, the nations premier provider of Social Security disability representation services and its exclusive Disability Financial Services (DFS) for rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients.

A recent study, Research on Liver Damage Caused by the Treatment of Rheumatoid Arthritis with Novel Biological Agents or Targeted Agents, highlights the double-edged sword of RA treatments. This research found that certain RA treatments, while effective in reducing inflammation and pain, were linked to elevated liver enzymes in some patients, indicating potential liver stress or damage. The study emphasized the importance of regular liver function tests for patients undergoing these treatments, suggesting that early detection of liver anomalies can lead to timely intervention and prevent severe complications.

When filing your Social Security disability claim, its important to tell the story of your experience with a health condition like rheumatoid arthritis, which can include the health impacts of the treatment, said T.J. Geist, Principal Advocate at Allsup. Some medical conditions are very debilitating on their own and then this can worsen in the course of seeking medical care, such as surgery, medication, radiation and other therapy.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that RA is an autoimmune disorder where the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells, leading to inflammation and painful swelling in the affected areas of the body. The Rheumatoid Arthritis Support Network notes that RA impacts more than 1 million Americans and nearly 1 percent of the global population; affecting women up to three times more than men. While the precise cause of RA remains elusive, consequently, there isn't a known cure for the condition. Nevertheless, several treatments are available that can enhance a persons quality of life.

The debilitating nature of RA often leads to job loss, prompting many to apply for Social Security disability benefits. U.S. workers receive federal disability insurance coverage through their FICA payroll taxes, with a portion divided among Social Security retirement, disability insurance and Medicare programs. SSDI is designed to provide financial benefits to individuals who are unable to work due to a disability. In addition, individuals who are able to reach medical stability through treatment may be able to consider returning to work through the Ticket to Work Program benefit, which comes with SSDI.

You have an advantage with expert representation like Allsup to help tell the story of your disability, including the daily difficulties, impact on your work, and the effects of treatment, Geist explained. In addition, while we assist you with your SSDI claim, we also provide vital financial assistance with our Disability Financial Solutions  helping you to navigate this time of waiting for a disability decision and experiencing immediate money problems. Allsup is here to offer you both SSDI help and financial hope.

With support from Allsup, RA patients can embrace the future with optimism, knowing they have a partner to guide them through the financial landscape, while helping them focus on their health and well-being, Geist said.

When considering filing for SSDI benefits, its vital to have medical support and documentation of your condition. The American College of Rheumatology provides a useful Rheumatology Provider Directory to help you take the first step. With the steadfast support of Allsup experts, rheumatoid arthritis patients can confidently tackle the intricacies of applying for SSDI benefits, assured of assistance at every stage

For more information about applying for SSDI benefits, filing your appeal if you were denied, or to see if you are eligible, visit FileSSDI.Allsup.com or call 1-800-678-3276. Be sure to ask about our Disability Financial Solutions for SSDI customers.

ABOUT ALLSUP

Allsup and its subsidiaries provide nationwide Social Security disability, veterans disability appeal, return to work, and healthcare benefits services for individuals, their employers and insurance carriers. Allsup professionals deliver specialized services supporting people with disabilities and seniors so they may lead lives that are as financially secure and as healthy as possible. Founded in 1984, the company is based in Belleville, Illinois, near St. Louis. Learn more at Allsup.com and @Allsup or download a free PDF of Applying for Social Security Disability Insurance: Getting It Right The First Time.

Attachment
New York, Aug. 29, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Reportlinker.com announces the release of the report "Global Retinal Biologics Market Size, Share & Industry Trends Analysis Report By Indication, By Drug Class, By Distribution Channel, By Regional Outlook and Forecast, 2023 - 2030" - https://www.reportlinker.com/p06488059/?utm_source=GNW

For example, By 2050, there will be about 1.5 billion people on the planet, a rise of more than three times the current population. Additionally, it is anticipated that by this time, 16.0% of people will be over the age of 60 worldwide. One out of every six people will be 65 or older by the middle of the twenty-first century. The global increase in the number and prevalence of older people is known as the "population aging phenomenon." In 2019, there were 703 million people worldwide who were 65 or older. People 65 and over made up 9% more of the population in 2019 than they did in 2018. Some of the factors impacting the market Technological advances aiding in the development of retinal biologics, Rising prevalence of retinal and eye issues, and longer time periods for drug approval.



Retinal biologic products have undergone technological breakthroughs that have improved their safety and effectiveness profiles, which has led to a rise in patient uptake across the globe. Significant R&D expenditures and business partnerships among market players are advantageous for developing retinal biology. The technical advances place a strong focus on research and development (R&D) pertaining to retinal gene treatments conducted by various institutes, biologics firms, and innovative product launches by key players in the form of implants and biologics. Additionally, Because of the increasing number of initiatives taken by various healthcare organizations, governmental entities, and industry actors, there is a greater awareness among the general public about ocular problems, which is leading to a higher diagnostic and treatment rate in the population. Concern regarding diabetic retinopathy has grown as more adults with type I and type II diabetes are losing their vision as a result of the disease. Thus, technological improvements in retinal biologics products and increasing prevalence of ocular issues will augment the expansion of the market in the coming years.



However, a number of pricey regulatory approvals and research phases are necessary for drug approval. The process of approving a medicine involves several phases of regulatory agency screening, including about four clinical trial steps. The costs of failing studies are high because clinical trial phases need large investments. For instance, according to a Forbes article, a medication producer invests approximately $350 million in each therapy before it is put on the market. Long wait times also cost these producers money, which hinders the expansion of the market. Furthermore, workflows in the healthcare industry were affected globally by the COVID-19 pandemic. Several areas of the healthcare sector, as well as several other industries, temporarily closed their doors due to the sickness. The COVID-19-led worldwide economic slowdown caused a drop in the market in 2020. The pandemic also caused supply chains in several end-user industries to fall, including the pharmaceutical, healthcare, and industrial sectors. This limited the market and impacted the release of innovative medicines.



Indication Outlook



Based on indication, the market is categorized into macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, and others. The macular degeneration segment procured the highest revenue share in the market in 2022. Retinal biologics can help maintain eyesight and stop additional vision loss in people with macular degeneration by lowering inflammation in the retina and limiting the formation of aberrant blood vessels. Biologics used early and effectively can sometimes stabilize or even improve vision. The frequency of injections or treatments is decreased by some retinal biologics extended-release formulations.



Drug Class Outlook



On the basis of drug class, the market is segmented into VEGF-A antagonist and others. The others segment recorded a significant revenue share in the market in 2022. The other segment mostly includes biologics developed from TNF-?. The pro-inflammatory cytokine tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-?) is generated by macrophages and T-cells. It is significant in both inflammation and apoptosis. TNF-? is considered part of developing inflammatory, edematous, neovascular, and neurodegenerative illnesses in the eye.



Distribution Channel Outlook



Based on distribution channel, the market is divided into hospital pharmacy, online pharmacy, and retail pharmacy. The online pharmacy segment procured a considerable growth rate in the market in 2022. One of the key factors influencing the segments growth is the increasing number of patients visiting ophthalmology clinics for the treatment of various eye conditions. In both established and developing nations, there are more and more people using the internet, and patients are increasingly choosing to buy their drugs online.



Regional Outlook



Region-wise, the market is analyzed across North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, and LAMEA. The North America region recorded the largest revenue share in the market in 2022. The existence of numerous significant players, including Bayer AG, and Novartis AG, as well as developments in the production of retinal biologics, are driving the markets expansion. Additionally, easier access to retinal biologics medications and greater public awareness of the importance of early detection and treatment are key factors driving market expansion in this region. In addition, a strong network of hospitals, clinics, and research institutions makes up the healthcare infrastructure. This infrastructure aids in the creation, use, and study of retinal biology.



Strategies deployed in Retinal Biologics Market



Jul-2023: Bausch + Lomb acquired the Blink over-the-counter (OTC) line of eye drops from Johnson & Johnson Vision. The acquisition expanded the former companys portfolio of OTC eye care products and the addition would enable the company to provide enhanced convenience to consumers.



May-2023: Bausch + Lomb, the eyecare division of Bausch Health, received approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for Miebo drops for dry eye disease. The medication fills a sizable gap in patient care as it is the only FDA-approved treatment to specifically target tear evaporation.



Feb-2023: AbbVie extended its collaboration with Capsida Biotherapeutics, a fully integrated next-generation gene therapy platform company, for developing genetic medicines for eye problems. Capsidas cutting-edge adeno-associated virus (AAV) engineering platform and manufacturing expertise will be integrated with AbbVies comprehensive capabilities to identify and advance three candidates.



Aug-2022: Bausch + Lomb partnered with Munich Surgical Planning (MSI), a subsidiary of Heidelberg Engineering. To meet the rising demand for digital microscopy, this partnership aimed to bring together Bausch + Lombs surgical expertise in the cataract, refractive, and vitreoretinal space with MSIs visualization and image guidance expertise, including an integrated high-speed SSOCT powered by Heidelberg Engineering.



Jul-2022: Roche came into partnership with Avista Therapeutics, a company focused on developing innovative gene therapies for retinal diseases, for developing novel AAV gene therapy vectors for eyes. The partnership aimed to use Avistas single-cell adeno-associated virus engineering (scAAVengr) platform technology to create intravitreal AAV capsids that fit a capsid profile specified by Roche. Moreover, Roche is in charge of conducting preclinical, clinical, and commercialization activities for gene therapy programs using these novel capsids, which is different from Avistas internal pipeline. Roche will also have the right to evaluate and license novel capsids from Avista.



Feb-2022: Roche received the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approval for Vabysmo (faricimab-svoa) for the treatment of neovascular Diabetic Macular Edema (DME) and Age-related Macular Degeneration (nAMD). Vabysmo neutralizes the disease-related proteins angiopoietin-2 (Ang-2) and vascular endothelial growth factor-A (VEGF-A), which are associated with a range of retinal disorders that can impair vision.



Jan-2022: AbbVie got the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval for RINVOQ (upadacitinib). This medication is indicated for the treatment of moderate to severe atopic dermatitis in children 12 years of age and above and adults.



Dec-2021: Novartis signed an agreement to acquire Gyroscope Therapeutics, a clinical-stage gene therapy company. Through this acquisition, Novartis would achieve access to the prior guide experimental gene treatment, GT005.



Mar-2021: Roche signed a collaboration and licensing agreement with SemaThera, a company focused on creating novel therapies for retinopathies. The partnership was focused on creating SemaTheras exciting new class of biologicals for the management of ischemic retinal disorders, such as diabetic retinopathy.



The market research report covers the analysis of key stake holders of the market. Key companies profiled in the report include Novartis AG, Amgen, Inc., AbbVie, Inc., Bayer AG, Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Santen Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., Bausch Health Companies, Inc., F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., MeiraGTx Holdings plc and Oxurion NV.



Scope of the Study



Market Segments covered in the Report:



By Indication



 Macular Degeneration



 Diabetic Retinopathy



 Others



By Drug Class



 VEGF-A Antagonist



 Others



By Distribution Channel



 Hospital Pharmacy



 Retail Pharmacy



 Online Pharmacy



By Geography



 North America



o US



o Canada



o Mexico



o Rest of North America



 Europe



o Germany



o UK



o France



o Russia



o Spain



o Italy



o Rest of Europe



 Asia Pacific



o China



o Japan



o India



o South Korea



o Singapore



o Malaysia



o Rest of Asia Pacific



 LAMEA



o Brazil



o Argentina



o UAE



o Saudi Arabia



o South Africa



o Nigeria



o Rest of LAMEA



Companies Profiled



 Novartis AG



 Amgen, Inc.



 AbbVie, Inc.



 Bayer AG



 Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc.



 Santen Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd.



 Bausch Health Companies, Inc.



 F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd.



 MeiraGTx Holdings plc



 Oxurion NV



Unique Offerings



 Exhaustive coverage



 Highest number of market tables and figures



 Subscription based model available



 Guaranteed best price



 Assured post sales research support with 10% customization free

Read the full report: https://www.reportlinker.com/p06488059/?utm_source=GNW



About Reportlinker

ReportLinker is an award-winning market research solution. Reportlinker finds and organizes the latest industry data so you get all the market research you need - instantly, in one place.



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Corning, N.Y., Aug. 29, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Officials at The Guthrie Clinic announced today that Guthrie Corning Hospital has been designated a Provisional Level III Adult Trauma Center by the New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH), effective August 28, 2023.

Guthrie Corning Hospital now joins Guthrie Robert Packer Hospital and Guthrie Troy Community Hospital as designated/accredited trauma centers, said Dr. Edmund Sabanegh, President and CEO of The Guthrie Clinic. With this new designation for Corning Hospital, multiple rural communities in our 12-county region will benefit from having access to trauma care close to home when they need it most.

The Level III designation requires hospitals to have a 24-hour trauma team in place, and emergency medical supplies and specialized equipment designed specifically for treating traumatic injuries. A Level III Trauma Center increases the level of care available to those facing medical emergencies and provides critical support in emergency situations. Provisional status is granted to new trauma programs in New York until they are verified by the American College of Surgeons.

Guthries Robert Packer Hospital is an accredited Level I Trauma Center and Guthrie Troy Community Hospital is an accredited Level IV Trauma Center by the Pennsylvania Trauma Systems Foundation.

Becoming a Level III Trauma Center reaffirms Guthries commitment to our communitys wellbeing, said Dr. Anne Rizzo, Trauma Medical Director. This designation puts Guthrie at the forefront of health care systems in rural settings and solidifies our dedication to providing reliable and accessible emergency services for our patients.

I am profoundly grateful to the caregivers who played a vital role in obtaining Level III designation, said Dr. Sabanegh. Their compassion, skill, and guidance are a testament to Guthries legacy of providing high-quality trauma care to those in need. We remain unwavering in our commitment to keep care local for our communities.

###

The Guthrie Clinic is a non-profit multispecialty health system that integrates clinical and hospital care with research and education. Based in Sayre, Pennsylvania, The Guthrie Clinic is one of the nations longest established group practices, founded in 1910 by Dr. Donald Guthrie with a vision of providing patient-centered care through a clinically-integrated network of employed providers. It is an industry leader in the use of technology and electronic medical records to provide high-quality care. Among The Guthrie Clinics 6,500 caregivers are more than 700 physicians and advanced practice providers, representing the spectrum of medical specialties and sub-specialties. The Guthrie Clinic is a five-hospital system with a large network of outpatient facilities that spans nearly 9,000 square miles in Pennsylvania and upstate New York. It is dedicated to training the next generation of health care leaders, offering seven residencies and three fellowships.

Visit us at www.Guthrie.org. Follow us at Twitter.com/GuthrieClinic, Facebook.com/TheGuthrieClinic, Linkedin.com/company/TheGuthrieClinic, and Instagram.com/TheGuthrieClinic.

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Attachments
MONTERREY, Mexico, Aug. 29, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Fomento Economico Mexicano, S.A.B. de C.V. (FEMSA or the Company) (NYSE: FMX; BMV: FEMSAUBD, FEMSAUB) announced today that it has entered into definitive agreements with BradyIFS to create a new platform within the facility care, foodservice disposables, and packaging distribution industries in the United States. The combined platform will bring together Envoy Solutions LLC and BradyIFS in a highly complementary combination, positioned to serve and provide value to its customers and suppliers effectively and efficiently across the country.

Transaction Highlights

Upon closing, FEMSA will receive approximately US$1.7 billion in cash and retain an ownership stake of approximately 37% in the combined entity, which is expected to have pro-forma revenues approaching US$5 billion.





For the purposes of this transaction, the Envoy Solutions valuation implies an unlevered double-digit annualized rate of return on the accumulated capital invested by FEMSA since entering this business in 2020.





Approximately 63% of the combined entity will be owned by existing BradyIFS equity holders led by Kelso & Company and its affiliate funds and including BradyIFS management; by funds managed by Warburg Pincus LLC; and by the current minority shareholders of Envoy Solutions.





Transaction Rationale

The transaction will allow Envoy Solutions and BradyIFS to combine their strengths and complementary footprints to create a strong customer-focused platform to effectively provide its customers with high-value solutions, and its supplier partners with excellent market reach, delivering more products and solutions in more locations across the United States.





FEMSA Forward and Strategic Update

This transaction allows the Company to implement FEMSA Forward with regards to Envoy Solutions while maximizing shareholder value, within a reasonable timeframe. Reaching this milestone was made possible by the tireless effort of the Envoy Solutions team. FEMSA will aim to contribute to the governance and continued value creation at the combined entity, mainly through FEMSAs participation on the Board of Directors. FEMSA does not expect to contribute incremental capital to the combined entity going forward.





With this announcement, FEMSA has now addressed a major portion of the divestiture plans outlined in the FEMSA Forward strategy. Our focus will remain on the continued execution of the Companys long-range plans in retail, beverages and digital, which will include a combination of organic growth and inorganic investments within these core verticals, as well as other capital allocation actions that pursue the maximization of long-term intrinsic value per share, with a balanced combination of yield and growth. The Company will share more details of this strategy in the months to come.





The transaction announced today is subject to customary regulatory approvals and is expected to close in the coming months.

About Kelso

Kelso is one of the oldest and most established firms specializing in private equity investing. Since 1980, Kelso has raised a total of 11 private equity funds and invested approximately $19 billion of equity capital in more than 140 companies. Kelso was founded by the inventor of the Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) and, as a result, the principles of partnership and alignment of interest serve as the foundation of the firm's investment philosophy. Kelso benefits from a successful investment track record, deep sector expertise, a long-tenured investing team, and a reputation as a preferred partner to management teams and corporates. Kelso has significant experience investing in distribution/packaging, having deployed approximately $1.4 billion of equity capital in the sector since 2015. For more information, please visit www.kelso.com.

About Warburg Pincus

Warburg Pincus LLC is a leading global growth investor. The firm has more than $83 billion in assets under management. The firms active portfolio of more than 250 companies is highly diversified by stage, sector, and geography. Warburg Pincus is an experienced partner to management teams seeking to build durable companies with sustainable value. Founded in 1966, Warburg Pincus has raised 21 private equity and 2 real estate funds, which have invested more than $112 billion in over 1,000 companies in more than 40 countries. Warburg Pincus is an active investor in industrials, with current and historical investments including, Consolidated Precision Products, Duravant, El Carwash, Extant Aerospace, Infinite Electronics, Pregis, Service Logic, Sundyne, TransDigm, TriMark USA, Wencor, among others. The firm is headquartered in New York with offices in Amsterdam, Beijing, Berlin, Hong Kong, Houston, London, Luxembourg, Mumbai, Mauritius, San Francisco, Sao Paulo, Shanghai, and Singapore. For more information please visit www.warburgpincus.com. Follow us on LinkedIn.

About FEMSA

FEMSA is a company that creates economic and social value through companies and institutions and strives to be the best employer and neighbor to the communities in which it operates. It participates in the retail industry through a Proximity Americas Division operating OXXO, a small-format store chain, and other related retail formats, and Proximity Europe which includes Valora, our European retail unit which operates convenience and foodvenience formats. In the retail industry it also participates though a Health Division, which includes drugstores and related activities and Digital@FEMSA, which includes Spin by OXXO and Spin Premia, among other digital financial services initiatives. In the beverage industry, it participates through Coca-Cola FEMSA, the largest franchise bottler of Coca-Cola products in the world by volume. FEMSA also participates in the logistics and distribution industry through its Strategic Business Unit, which additionally provides point-of-sale refrigeration and plastic solutions to its business units and third-party clients. Across its business units, FEMSA has more than 350,000 employees in 18 countries. FEMSA is a member of the Dow Jones Sustainability MILA Pacific Alliance, the FTSE4Good Emerging Index and the Mexican Stock Exchange Sustainability Index: S&P/BMV Total Mexico ESG, among other indexes that evaluate its sustainability performance.
/NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION IN THE USA/

2023 Year End Financial Results to be Filed on or Before September 1 Following Wildfire Related Disruption

KAMLOOPS, Aug. 28, 2023 - Progressive Planet (TSXV: PLAN) (OTCQB: ASHXF) ("Progressive Planet", "PLAN", or the "Company"), a leader in developing CleanTech solutions for the planet, announces a new target filing date for the audited consolidated financial statements and related management's discussion & analysis ("MD&A") for the fiscal year ending April 30, 2023. Due to wildfires in the area disrupting the financial close and reporting process, the finalization of the Company's continuous disclosure documents has been delayed. Progressive Planet intends to file its annual audited consolidated financial statements and related MD&A on or before Friday, September 1, 2023.

"Our thoughts are with the people adversely affected by the wildfires in B.C. and we are thankful for those working tirelessly to keep people safe," says Progressive Planet CEO Steve Harpur.

Added Harpur: "With the situation now improved, we also wish to inform our investors that the fires did not impact our mining or manufacturing operations."

___________________________

Progressive Planet provides regular information for investors on its website: progressiveplanet.com/investors/. This includes press releases and other information about financial performance, patents filed, and information on corporate governance.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

About Progressive Planet:

We are a CleanTech and manufacturing company with proven product lines based in Kamloops, British Columbia. Our expertise lies in developing critical low-carbon and carbon sequestering solutions using our owned mineral assets and recycled materials to create planet-friendly products that fight climate change and protect our planet's health.

Our products are in 10,000+ retail stores across North America. Our innovations, created at our C-Quester Centre of Sustainable Innovation, bring positive disruption to the cement, agricultural and animal-care sectors by creating products that help reduce carbon footprints and restore ecosystems.

Forward-Looking Statements:

Certain statements in this release are forward-looking statements, which reflect the expectations of management regarding the matters described herein. Forward-looking statements consist of statements that are not purely historical, including any statements regarding beliefs, plans, expectations, or intentions regarding the future. Such statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results, performance, or developments to differ materially from those contained in the statements. No assurance can be given that any of the events anticipated by the forward-looking statements will occur or, if they do occur, what benefits the Company will obtain from them. These forward-looking statements reflect management's current views and are based on certain expectations, estimates and assumptions which may prove to be incorrect. A number of risks and uncertainties could cause our actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements, including factors beyond the Company's control. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date of this news release.

Disclaimer:

This news release, required by Canadian laws, does not constitute an offer of securities and is not for distribution or dissemination outside Canada.

SOURCE Progressive Planet Solutions
Vancouver - 28 August 2023 - Newlox Gold Ventures Corp. ("Newlox" or the "Company") (CSE:LUX) (Frankfurt/Stuttgart:NGO) (OTC:NWLXF), is providing an update on the status of a management cease trade order (the "MCTO") that was granted by the British Columbia Securities Commission on 1 August 2023. The Company is providing this bi-weekly status update in accordance with National Policy 12-203 Management Cease Trade Orders ("NP 12-203").

The Company's audited annual financial statements for the year ended March 31, 2023, including the related management discussion and analysis, and Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial certifications (collectively, the "Annual Financial Filings") were not filed before the Filing Deadline of July 31, 2023 (the "Filing Deadline"). Pursuant to National Policy 12-203 Management Cease Trade Orders ("NP 12-203") the Company has voluntarily applied to the applicable securities regulatory authorities and received a management cease trade order related to the Company's securities to be imposed against the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer of the Company to trade securities of the Company (the "MCTO"). The MCTO will be in effect until the Annual Financial Filings are filed. All other securityholders will still be able to trade in the securities of the Company in accordance with applicable securities laws.

The Company confirms that, except as provided herein, there are no changes from its news release dated 1 August 2023. The Company reports that the audit is progressing and the Company expects to file the Annual Financial Filings by 11 September 2023.

Until the Annual Financial Filings are filed and the MCTO has been revoked, the Company intends to continue to satisfy the provisions of the alternative information guidelines specified in NP 12-203 by issuing default status reports in the form of further press releases every two weeks. The Company confirms that there is no other material information relating to its affairs that has not been generally disclosed.

On Behalf of the Board, Newlox Gold Ventures Corp.

Contact Newlox Gold

Ryan Jackson

Newlox Gold Ventures Corp., President

Website: www.newloxgold.com

Email: info@newloxgold.com

Phone: + 1 604 256 0493

Copyright (c) 2023 TheNewswire - All rights reserved.
/THIS NEWS RELEASE IS NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO UNITED STATES SERVICES OR FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES/

VANCOUVER, Aug. 29, 2023 - /CNW/ - Macarthur Minerals Ltd. (TSXV: MMS) (ASX: MIO) (OTCQB: MMSDF) (the Company or Macarthur), is pleased to announce that all resolutions were passed at the Annual General Meeting of the Company held today in Brisbane, Australia.

The results in respect of each of the resolution put to shareholders at the Annual General Meeting are set out in Appendix 1.

Released On behalf of the Board of Directors, Mr Cameron McCall, Executive Chairman and CEO

Company profile

Macarthur is an iron ore development, and lithium exploration company that is focused on bringing to production its Western Australia iron ore projects. The Lake Giles Iron Project mineral resources include the Ularring hematite resource (approved for development) comprising Indicated resources of 54.5 million tonnes at 47.2% Fe and Inferred resources of 26 million tonnes at 45.4% Fe; and the Lake Giles magnetite resource of 53.9 million tonnes (Measured), 218.7 million tonnes (Indicated) and 997 million tonnes (Inferred). The Lake Giles Iron Project also contains Proven Ore Reserves of 51.9 Mt and Probable Ore Reserves of 184.7Mt. Macarthur also holds 24 square kilometre tenement area iron exploration interests in the Pilbara region of Western Australia. In addition, Macarthur has lithium brine Claims in the emerging Railroad Valley region in Nevada, USA. The Mineral Resource and Ore Reserve estimates presented herein have previously been released to the ASX on March 21, 2022, including supporting JORC reporting tables. The Company confirms that it is not aware of any new information or data that materially affects the information included in the relevant market announcements and, in the case of Mineral Resources and Mineral Reserves that all assumptions and technical parameters underpinning the estimates in the relevant market announcement continue to apply and have not materially changed.

Caution Regarding Forward Looking Statements

Certain of the statements made and information contained in this press release may constitute forward-looking information and forward-looking statements (collectively, "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of applicable securities laws. All statements herein, other than statements of historical fact, that address activities, events or developments that the Company believes, expects or anticipates will or may occur in the future, including but not limited to statements regarding expected completion of the Feasibility Study; conversion of Mineral Resources to Ore Reserves or the eventual mining of the Project, are forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements in this press release reflect the current expectations, assumptions or beliefs of the Company based upon information currently available to the Company. Although the Company believes the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements are not guarantees of future performance and no assurance can be given that these expectations will prove to be correct as actual results or developments may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in forward-looking statements include but are not limited to: unforeseen technology changes that results in a reduction in iron or magnetite demand or substitution by other metals or materials; the discovery of new large low cost deposits of iron magnetite; the general level of global economic activity; failure to complete the FS; inability to demonstrate economic viability of Mineral Resources; and failure to obtain mining approvals. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements due to the inherent uncertainty thereof. Such statements relate to future events and expectations and, as such, involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties. The forward-looking statements contained in this press release are made as of the date of this press release and except as may otherwise be required pursuant to applicable laws, the Company does not assume any obligation to update or revise these forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

Appendix 1 - Macarthur Minerals 2023 Annual General Meeting - Voting Results

The following information is provided in accordance with section 251AA(2) of the Corporations Act 2001 (Cth) and ASX Listing Rule 3.13.2.

Resolution details Instructions given to validly appointed proxies

(as at proxy close) Number of votes cast on the poll

(where applicable) Resolution

Result Resolution Resolution Type For Against Proxy's

Discretion Abstain For Against Abstain* Carried / Not Carried 1 Adoption of Remuneration Report Ordinary 49,716,713 1,020,969 1,225,406 4,250 50,942,119 1,020,969 4,250 Carried 95.68 % 1.96 % 2.36 %

98.04 % 1.96 %



2 Re-Election of Director - Andrew Suckling Ordinary 57,325,444 996,866 1,229,656 0 58,555,100 996,866 0 Carried 96.27 % 1.67 % 2.06 %

98.33 % 1.67 %



3 Re-Election of Director - Alan Spence Phillips Ordinary 53,146,637 1,006,866 1,229,656 0 54,376,293 1,006,866 0 Carried 95.96 % 1.82 % 2.22 %

98.18 % 1.82 %



4 Re-Election of Director - Cameron McCall Ordinary 54,809,623 996,866 1,229,656 0 56,039,279 996,866 0 Carried 96.09 % 1.75 % 2.16 %

98.25 % 1.75 %



5 Election of Director - Paul Ryan Welker Ordinary 57,774,213 998,097 1,229,656 0 59,003,869 998,097 0 Carried 96.29 % 1.66 % 2.05 %

98.34 % 1.66 %



6 Appointment of Canadian Auditor Ordinary 57,774,128 878,182 1,239,656 110,000 59,013,784 878,182 110,000 Carried 96.46 % 1.47 % 2.07 %

98.53 % 1.47 %



7 Approval of Fixed 20% Omnibus Incentive Plan, Employee Share Compensation Plan and Consultant Share Compensation Plan Ordinary 49,469,733 95.44% 1,133,949 2.19% 1,229,656 2.37% 9,000 50,699,389 97.81% 1,133,949 2.19% 9,000 Carried 8 Ratification of Previous Securities Issues Ordinary 57,634,610 1,008,516 1,354,656 4,184 58,989,266 1,008,516 4,184 Carried 96.06 % 1.68 % 2.26 %

98.32 % 1.68 %



9 Approval of 10% Placement Capacity Special 57,754,610 1,017,700 1,229,656 0 58,984,266 1,017,700 0 Carried 96.25 % 1.70 % 2.05 %

98.30 % 1.70 %





* Votes cast by a person who abstains on an item are not counted in calculating the required majority on a poll.

SOURCE Macarthur Minerals Ltd.
MONTREAL, Aug. 29, 2023 - DIOS Exploration Inc. (TSX-V:DOS) management is very pleased to report new acquisitions to enlarge Lithium North project now totalling some wholly-owned 170 claims for 8,900 hectares some 12-20 km north of its Lithium33 property, James Bay prolific lithium region, Quebec, Canada.



DIOS STARTS MAJOR BOOTS ON THE GROUND LITHIUM EXPLORATION ON SEVERAL WHOLLY-OWNED PROJECTS, JAMES BAY, QUEBEC

Dios initiated a complex process requiring detailed geological studies and thorough analysis to effectively target the most promising lithium zones. Dios is very pleased to start field exploration on several wholly-owned James Bay lithium projects to check these detailed pegmatite targets enhanced by lithium and evolved LCT pegmatite signatures in lake bottom sediments and in glacial till dispersal trains, as well as by advanced processing of geophysical magnetic and geological data.

Lithium North covers two prospective sections of pegmatites: 1) NE-SW striking 13 km-long section and 2) NW-SE 6 km long one, both hosting porphyric/pegmatitic granodiorite with pegmatite pockets and 5-50% dykes, wrapped around a magnetic biotite granite.

Lithium North is located about 60 km ENE of Allkem James Bay/Cyr lithium deposit (40.3Mt @1.40%Li2O resource) and 40-50km north of Rose deposit (26.3Mt @ 0.87% Li2O & 138 ppm Ta2O5 resources). Geochemical signature of Lithium North is comparable to Pivert-Rose deposit and Pontax-Lithium prospect, discovered and drilled during former joint Dios/Sirios Resources project under supervision of H. Desbiens V-P of Dios & 43-101 Q. P. who reviewed this release.

Quebec government data bank reports at least 11 large pegmatite outcrops within Lithium Nord claims and many others may be extrapolated from satellite imagery (specially on the NW and southern blocks). Majority of known pegmatitic rocks correlate well with NW, NS & EW magnetic (TILT) lineaments.

Lithium North lies within a greenstone belt, outside of former Tyrell Sea (with sediment values more reliable as not swept all over). Dios' project is in key location at the head of significant (30km-long) cluster of lake sediment anomalies (up to very high 100.6 ppm Li; Rb over 10 ppm, up to 72 ppm; Cs over 2 ppm, up to very high 8 ppm).

East-Clarkie hosts at least 47 notable pegmatite outcrops and LeCaron 20 pegmatite outcrops, all associated with a lithium signature footprint (see June 20 and June 06 releases). These exploration results as well as those from Nemiscau north (October 20 release) will be released gradually in a timely basis.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
Vancouver, August 29, 2023 - Tembo Gold Corp. (TSXV: TEM) ("Tembo", or the "Company") - is pleased to announce that its subsidiary Tembo Gold Tanzania Limited (the "Subsidiary") has entered into a License Purchase Agreement dated August 28th, 2023 (the "Agreement") with an arm's length private Tanzanian Citizen, pursuant to which the Subsidiary will acquire (the "Acquisition") the Dora Gold Project (the "Project") in Tanzania.

The Project

The Project (PL11953/2022 of 19km2) borders the Imwelo Mining License to the west, east and south. The Company announced the proposed acquisition of the Imwelo Mining License in its press release dated August 10, 2023. Exploration drilling by previous operators has identified a historical resource estimate containing indicated mineral resources of 90,800oz Au at a grade of 1.19 g/t and an inferred mineral resources of 424,310oz Au gold at a grade of 1.43 g/t, located in two zones (the "Historical Resource Estimate"). A number of targets remain to be tested. The Historical Resource Estimate is derived from a report entitled "Independent Competent Person's Report on the Imwelu Gold Project, Tanzania - Mineral Resource Report" dated March 10, 2017 (the "Report") prepared by Minxcon (Pty) Ltd of South Africa. The Historical Resource Estimate presented in the Report was carried out in accordance with the "Australasian Code for Reporting of Exploration Results, Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves" (2012 Edition) prepared by the Joint Ore Reserves Committee of the Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy, Australian Institute of Geoscientists and Minerals Council of Australia. The Historical Resource Estimate was based on a preliminary economic assessment completed in 2014 on the Project, which utilised a cut-off grade of 0.4 g/t, for an open pit scenario. A gold price of USD$1,469/oz, and a 90% plant recovery factor were applied in the calculation of the cut-off, with a 0% dilution factor. The Report includes the following Historical Resource Estimate:

Historical Resource Estimate

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/2214/178792_bbdab76384e26a61_002full.jpg

The above noted Historical Resource Estimate is the last historical mineral resource estimate on the Project and no more recent data is available to the Company.

A qualified person has not done sufficient work to classify the Historical Resource Estimate as current mineral resources, and the Company is not treating the Historical Resource Estimate as current mineral resources or mineral reserves. The Company believes that the Historical Resource Estimate is relevant to an appraisal of the merits of the Project and forms a reliable basis upon which to develop future exploration programs. The Company will need to conduct further exploration, and there is no guarantee that the results obtained will reflect the historical estimate. In order to verify the Historical Resource Estimate to a current mineral resource estimate, the Company will need to retain a qualified person to verify historical drilling and assaying methods and validate historical results, add any drilling and assaying or other pertinent geological information generated since the last estimation, and complete an updated resource estimate and a new technical report. Significant data compilation, drilling, sampling and data verification may be required by a qualified person before the Historical Resource Estimate can be classified as a current resource. There can be no assurance that any of the historical mineral resources, in whole or in part, will ever become economically viable. In addition, mineral resources are not mineral reserves and do not have demonstrated economic viability. Even if classified as a current mineral resource, there is no certainty as to whether further exploration will result in any inferred mineral resources being upgraded to an indicated or measured mineral resource category.

Terms of the Acquisition

The Acquisition is an arm's length transaction for cash consideration, and is considered an Exempt Transaction under the TSX Venture Exchange policies.

Conditions to the closing of the Acquisition include:

satisfactory search results regarding title to the Project;

approval of the Mining Commission (Tanzania) to proceed with the Acquisition, if applicable; and

other customary conditions precedent for a transaction of this nature.

The Acquisition is expected to be completed by November 30th, 2023.

"The acquisition of this prospecting license immediately adjacent to the recently announced ML Tembo is acquiring from Lake Victoria Gold, provides the Company with an additional area of prospective geology with gold mineralization, as evidenced by historical drilling and extensive artisanal mining," said David Scott, President & CEO of Tembo.

Qualified Person

David Scott, Pr. Sci. Nat., is the Qualified Person responsible for the technical content of this news release. David Scott, Pr. Sci. Nat., has prepared, supervised and approved the scientific and technical disclosure in this news release.

About Tembo

Tembo Gold is a Canadian public company listed on the TSX Venture Exchange under the symbol TEM. The Company has a 100% interest in the Tembo Gold Project which has over forty thousand meters of drilling and is located adjacent to Barrick's 20Moz Bulyanhulu Mine in Tanzania's prolific Lake Victoria Goldfield. In April 2022 Tembo completed a transaction with Barrick, whereby Tembo sold six of its non-core licenses to Barrick for $6mm USD, and Barrick is committed to spending $9mm USD over the first four years. Additionally, Tembo will receive contingent payments of up-to $45mm USD on the first five million ounces discovered by Barrick.

The Company has assembled a highly experienced team with a track record of developing, financing, and operating mining projects in Africa. Joining part of the team is Taifa Group. Taifa Group (a diverse group of companies with interests in amongst others, Mining, Telecoms, Oil & Gas, Agri Business, Pharmaceuticals and Leather) has taken an equity stake in Tembo Gold and through its wholly owned subsidiary Taifa Mining (a wholly Tanzanian owned company). Taifa Mining will also carry out all the contract mining and civil works for the Imwelo project. Taifa Mining is Tanzania's largest mining contractor with over 30 years mining related experience. Taifa have been the contractor of choice to most mines in Tanzania and have maintained long and successful relationships with companies such as Petra, De Beers, Barrick and AngloGold Ashanti. In addition, we also own the largest fleet of mining equipment in Tanzania. As a company, Taifa is committed to adopting and adhering to the latest internationally recognised standards throughout all aspects of its business.

Tembo is focused on the discovery and development of world-class gold projects in Africa as well as seeking additional opportunities that can bring value to the company and shareholders.

On Behalf of the Board of Directors of Tembo,

David Scott

President & CEO

Phone: +255 767 366 146

Email: dscott@tembogold.com

For more information please contact:

Simon Benstead

Director & CFO

Phone: 604-685-9316

Email: sbenstead@tembogold.com

Marc Cernovitch

Director

Phone: +1 604-685-9316

Email: mcernovitch@tembogold.com

NEITHER THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE NOR ITS REGULATION SERVICES PROVIDER (AS THAT TERM IS DEFINED IN THE POLICIES OF THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE) ACCEPTS RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS NEWS RELEASE.

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information

This news release includes certain "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation, including: future exploration plans with respect to the Project, defining current mineral resource and mineral reserves on the Project, the terms of the Acquisition, closing of the Acquisition, including the satisfaction of the closing conditions thereunder and the expected timing thereof, and receipt of all applicable regulatory approvals. All statements in this news release that address events or developments that we expect to occur in the future are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts and are generally, although not always, identified by words such as "expect", "plan", "anticipate", "project", "target", "potential", "schedule", "forecast", "budget", "estimate", "intend" or "believe" and similar expressions or their negative connotations, or that events or conditions "will", "would", "may", "could", "should" or "might" occur. All such forward-looking statements are based on the opinions and estimates of management as of the date such statements are made.

Forward-looking statements necessarily involve assumptions, risks and uncertainties, certain of which are beyond Tembo's control, including risks associated with or related to: the completion of the Acquisition, including receipt of all regulatory approvals and third-party consents, the volatility of metal prices and Tembo's common shares; changes in tax laws; the dangers inherent in exploration, development and mining activities; the uncertainty of reserve and resource estimates; not achieving development or production, cost or other estimates; actual exploration or development plans and costs differing materially from the Company's estimates; the ability to obtain and maintain any necessary permits, consents or authorizations required for mining activities; environmental regulations or hazards and compliance with complex regulations associated with mining activities; climate change and climate change regulations; fluctuations in exchange rates; the availability of financing; financing and debt activities; operations in foreign and developing countries and the compliance with foreign laws, including those associated with operations in Tanzania and including risks related to changes in foreign laws and changing policies related to mining and local ownership requirements or resource nationalization generally, including in response to the COVID-19 outbreak; remote operations and the availability of adequate infrastructure; fluctuations in price and availability of energy and other inputs necessary for mining operations; shortages or cost increases in necessary equipment, supplies and labour; regulatory, political and country risks, including local instability or acts of terrorism and the effects thereof; the reliance upon contractors, third parties and joint venture partners; challenges to title or surface rights; the dependence on key personnel and the ability to attract and retain skilled personnel; the risk of an uninsurable or uninsured loss; adverse climate and weather conditions; litigation risk; competition with other mining companies; community support for Tembo's operations, including risks related to strikes and the halting of such operations from time to time; conflicts with small scale miners; failures of information systems or information security threats; the ability to maintain adequate internal controls over financial reporting as required by law; compliance with anti-corruption laws, and sanctions or other similar measures; social media and Tembo's reputation; and other risks disclosed in the Company's public filings.

Tembo's forward-looking statements are based on the opinions and estimates of management and reflect their current expectations regarding future events and operating performance and speak only as of the date hereof. Tembo does not assume any obligation to update forward-looking statements if circumstances or management's beliefs, expectations or opinions should change other than as required by applicable law. There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, and actual results, performance or achievements could differ materially from those expressed in, or implied by, these forward-looking statements. Accordingly, no assurance can be given that any events anticipated by the forward-looking statements will transpire or occur, or if any of them do, what benefits or liabilities Tembo will derive therefrom. For the reasons set forth above, undue reliance should not be placed on forward-looking statements.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/178792
VANCOUVER, Aug. 29, 2023 - Golden Shield Resources Inc. (CSE: GSRI) (OTCQB: GSRFF) (FRA: 4LE0) (the "Company" or "Golden Shield") is pleased to report on recent work at its flagship, 5,457-hectare, Marudi Mountain gold project located in southwestern Guyana (the "Marudi Mountain Property" or "Marudi"), as well provide an update on preparations for Reverse Circulation ("RC") and subsequent Diamond drilling.

1) MARUDI NORTH

Surface Sampling: The Company has received assay results from grab samples taken during grid-traverse mapping, west and downslope of, the historically drilled, Marudi North prospect. Approximately 187 grab samples were collected over an area of 300 meters by 110 meters. Of these samples, 98 samples (representing 52% of the samples collected) yielded assays greater than 1.0 g/t gold ranging between 1.2 g/t and 37.6 g/t with an average tenor of 5.8 g/t gold. Given the high-grade nature of these assays, the observations of veining (fluid flow), silica flooding (alteration), abundant pyrite (sulphidation), stretching and rotation of pyrite (deformation) visible gold observed in four mineralized samples of the Ferruginous Quartzite ("FQ"), the Marudi North Prospect has been upgraded to Priority #1 for RC drilling. This will be undertaken by the Company owned and operated RC/Aircore ("AC") Prospector II Drill Rig. Drilling is expected to commence next week.

Historical Diamond Drilling: Marudi North was first drilled in 1947 and has been the subject of intermittent exploration. Marudi North has been tested by 43 historical diamond drill holes, totaling 8,150 meters. Table I below is a tabulation of selected drill hole intersections.

TABLE 1: Historical Marudi North drill hole intersections

From (m) To (m) Intersection (m) Grade (Au g/t) Host Geology 1947 Drilling 91.40 94.18 2.78 3.90 FQ 74.07 78.03 3.96 15.7 FQ 99.06 103.08 4.02 8.50 FQ

1993 Drilling 99 108 9.00 1.90 FQ 186 192 6.00 1.47 FQ

2011 Drilling 12.5 24.5 12.00 2.78 FQ















Geology: The host rock for all Marudi North historical mineralized intersections is the FQ unit, which also hosts gold mineralization at Mazoa Hill. The FQ at Marudi North occurs in a similar geological setting to Mazoa, as a unit "sandwiched" between foot-wall metavolcanic and hanging-wall metasediments. A 1-2 meters thick, laminated magnetite rich "marker horizon" that locally exhibits the characteristics of a Banded Iron Formation ("BIF"), is sometimes found between the FQ and the hanging wall metasediments. At Marudi, the rock package is structurally complex, developing zones of intense brittle deformation, mostly concentrated in the FQ. Minor veining and brittle fracturing is also developed in other units (mainly metavolcanics and metasediments), however, mineralized sulphides and free visible gold is consistently observed in the central FQ. Mineralization is intermittently developed, forming zones of high-grade "shoots" or intersections. These zones are characterized by densely populated, deformed and elongated sulphides developing a prominent stretching lineation, together with quartz and quartz-sulphide shear and extensional veins.

At Marudi North the FQ presents characteristics for a host rock to gold mineralization: it is competent, sandwiched between two rheologically weaker units and is flooded with magnetite, making it a highly reactive host to gold bearing fluids.

Geophysics: As reported in the Company's news release dated August 14, 2023 re-interpreted Heli-mag geophysics traces weak to moderate magnetic lineations. At Marudi North, recent grab samples assaying more than1g/t gold that occur along these lineations may indicate a strike extension to the historically drilled mineralization and perhaps structural repetition of the mineralized unit, again outside of the historic drill pattern.

Mechanized Trenching: At Target 1 (see Figure 2), following receipt of grab sample assay results, a mechanized trench sampling program was initiated prior to RC drilling, in order to trace the source of FQ float and sub-crop by attempting to expose, map and sample in-situ FQ in trenches up to 6 meters deep. To date, in-situ FQ units have been exposed in three trenches over a total distance of 159 meters. Additional mapping and sampling has been completed and a fourth trench is in progress. Assay results from ongoing surface work are pending. Visible gold was noted in trench excavations of highly altered FQ in all trenches. Target 2 (see Figure 2) will be trenched before being scheduled for RC drilling.

RC Drilling Grid: At Marudi North, RC/AC drilling is expected to commence next week. A grid of 35 shallow RC holes is scheduled for Target 1, with target depths on or about 50 meters (see Figure 2).

2) ZONE BETWEEN MARUDI NORTH AND MAZOA HILL

As referenced in the Company's news release date August 14, 2023 Golden Shield has drilled 23 holes totaling 7,440 meters at Mazoa Hill. The spatial and temporal relationships between Mazoa Hill and Marudi North mineralization challenged early explorers of the Marudi Property; and they still do. Golden Shield has focused on systematic surface and sampling and mapping of this area and continues to integrate the various databases available, including new geological observations and interpretations and re-interpretations of the Heli-mag data. Figure 3 shows the results of some of this work.

3) LOCUST CREEK AND PANCAKE CREEK

This new area is an extensively alluvial-mined creek with its headwaters in the Marudi North area. Lower down creek, the west bank catchment area has yielded significant results with 24 samples assaying greater than 1.0 g/t grab samples. This area is south of the historically drilled Marudi North area and is on-trend with Success-Kimberly trend which has been trenched and is scheduled for RC drilling. A significant fault (see Figure 3), is interpreted from geophysics, is interpreted to separate the western Marudi-North-Locust Ck block from the eastern Toucan-Peace Creek block.

Updates on other areas prospects, Success Creek, Toucan, Kimberly, Success Creek, IP-s and Peace Creek are detailed in Golden Shield's news release dated August 14, 2023, and will be integrated into the drilling schedule as results are received and the Company's geological understanding at Marudi advances.

Next Steps

Surface work. Continued field exploration consisting of trenching and grab sampling and mapping will continue.



RC/AC drilling. The RC Drill Rig is on site and drilling is expected to commence shortly.



Diamond drilling. In late September/early October, once sufficient assay results from the RC drilling have been received, Golden Shield will commence diamond drill testing the best of the RC anomalous areas.

Marudi represents the best understood example of an orogenic gold deposit, hosted in the Kwitwaro group metasediments in the southern Guyana greenstone belts. This, combined with the company's relationships in the area uniquely positions Golden Shield to explore this virgin greenstone belt for additional gold resources.

Quality Assurance

All Golden Shield sample assay results have been independently monitored through a quality control / quality assurance ("QA/QC") protocol which includes the insertion of blind standards, blanks as well as pulp and reject duplicate samples. Logging and sampling are completed at Golden Shield's core handling facility located at the Marudi property. Drill core is diamond sawn on site and half drill-core samples are securely transported to Actlabs Guyana Inc ("Actlabs") sample preparation and analysis facility in Georgetown, Guyana. Samples are crushed and pulverised and a 50-gram charge is analysed by Fire Assay with gravimetric finish. Golden Shield is not aware of any drilling, sampling, recovery, or other factors that could materially affect the accuracy or reliability of the data referred to herein. ACTLABS Laboratories is independent of Golden Shield.

Qualified Persons

Leo Hathaway, P. Geo, Executive Chair of Golden Shield, and a Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects, has reviewed, verified, and approved the scientific and technical information in this news release and has verified the data underlying that scientific and technical information.

Technical Information

Certain data disclosed in this news release is related to historical drilling results. The Company has not undertaken any independent investigation of the drilling, nor has it independently analyzed the results of the historical exploration work in order to verify the results. The Company considers these historical drill results relevant as the Company is using this data as a guide to plan exploration programs. The Company's current and future exploration work includes verification of the historical data through drilling.

Management Update

Golden Shield also announces that Mr. Hilbert Shields will be stepping down from his role as President and CEO of Golden Shield, effective March 1, 2024. Until such time, Mr. Shields will continue in his role and assist Golden Shield as it seeks to appoint a replacement. Golden Shield will immediately commence a search for its next CEO. Leo Hathaway, Executive Chairman of Golden Shield, commented: "We are extremely grateful to Hilbert for his work at Golden Shield since the company's inception, and wish him every success in his future endeavours".

About Golden Shield

Golden Shield Resources was founded by experienced professionals who are convinced that there are many more gold mines yet to be found in Guyana. The company is well-financed and has three wholly controlled gold projects: Marudi Mountain, Arakaka and Fish Creek. Golden Shield continues to evaluate other gold opportunities in Guyana.

This news release includes certain "Forward-Looking Statements" within the meaning of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and "forward-looking information" under applicable Canadian securities laws. When used in this news release, the words "anticipate", "believe", "estimate", "expect", "target", "plan", "forecast", "may", "would", "could", "schedule" and similar words or expressions, identify forward-looking statements or information. These forward-looking statements or information relate to, among other things: the exploration and development of the Company's mineral projects; and release of exploration results.

Forward-looking statements and forward-looking information relating to any future mineral production, liquidity, enhanced value and capital markets profile of Golden Shield, future growth potential for Golden Shield and its business, and future exploration plans are based on management's reasonable assumptions, estimates, expectations, analyses and opinions, which are based on management's experience and perception of trends, current conditions and expected developments, and other factors that management believes are relevant and reasonable in the circumstances, but which may prove to be incorrect. Assumptions have been made regarding, among other things, the price of gold and other metals; no escalation in the severity of the public health crises; costs of exploration and development; the estimated costs of development of exploration projects; Golden Shield's ability to operate in a safe and effective manner and its ability to obtain financing on reasonable terms.

These statements reflect Golden Shield's respective current views with respect to future events and are necessarily based upon a number of other assumptions and estimates that, while considered reasonable by management, are inherently subject to significant business, economic, competitive, political and social uncertainties and contingencies. Many factors, both known and unknown, could cause actual results, performance, or achievements to be materially different from the results, performance or achievements that are or may be expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements or forward-looking information and Golden Shield has made assumptions and estimates based on or related to many of these factors. Such factors include, without limitation: the Company's dependence on one mineral project; precious metals price volatility; risks associated with the conduct of the Company's mineral exploration activities in Guyana; regulatory, consent or permitting delays; risks relating to reliance on the Company's management team and outside contractors; risks regarding mineral resources and reserves; the Company's inability to obtain insurance to cover all risks, on a commercially reasonable basis or at all; currency fluctuations; risks regarding the failure to generate sufficient cash flow from operations; risks relating to project financing and equity issuances; risks and unknowns inherent in all mining projects, including the inaccuracy of reserves and resources, metallurgical recoveries and capital and operating costs of such projects; contests over title to properties, particularly title to undeveloped properties; laws and regulations governing the environment, health and safety; the ability of the communities in which the Company operates to manage and cope with the implications of public health crises; the economic and financial implications of public health crises to the Company; operating or technical difficulties in connection with mining or development activities; employee relations, labour unrest or unavailability; the Company's interactions with surrounding communities and artisanal miners; the Company's ability to successfully integrate acquired assets; the speculative nature of exploration and development, including the risks of diminishing quantities or grades of reserves; stock market volatility; conflicts of interest among certain directors and officers; lack of liquidity for shareholders of the Company; litigation risk; and the factors identified in the Company's public disclosure documents available on www.sedar.com. Readers are cautioned against attributing undue certainty to forward-looking statements or forward-looking information. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially, there may be other factors that cause results not to be anticipated, estimated or intended. The Company does not intend, and does not assume any obligation, to update these forward-looking statements or forward-looking information to reflect changes in assumptions or changes in circumstances or any other events affecting such statements or information, other than as required by applicable law.

SOURCE Golden Shield Resources
Calgary, August 29, 2022 - San Lorenzo Gold Corp. ("San Lorenzo" or the "Company") (TSXV:SLG) (OTC:SNLGF) is pleased to announce that it has successfully converted certain advances previously made by a director of the Company into a long-term debenture that defers repayment for 2 years. During 2023, the director made advances to fund drilling programs at Salvadora during challenging periods in the capital markets.

On August 29, 2023, the Company issued a $500,000 principal amount non-convertible debenture to the director. The debenture is non-convertible and matures in 2 years (August 31, 2025) and accrues interest at a rate of 8% per annum.

Commenting on having completed the conversion, Gordon Aldcorn, the Company's VP of Business Development commented: "This conversion of outstanding debt to a long-term obligation allows the Company to allocate future capital raises directly to corporate funding requirements that includes a Phase 5 drill program at Salvadora".

"The Company wishes to acknowledge the significance of the advances having been made that provided the capital needed to advance the recent drill programs on Salvadora - including the recently completed Phase 4 drilling program which offset the discovery hole identified in the 2022 Phase 3 drilling program."

For further information on the Company, readers are referred to the Company's website at www.sanlorenzogold.com and its Canadian regulatory filings on SEDAR at www.sedar.com.

About San Lorenzo Gold Corp.

San Lorenzo Gold is involved in the exploration and advancement of mineral properties - currently all in Chile. Those properties are 100% owned, and include Salvadora, Nancagua and Punta Alta.

The Salvadora property is subject of a recent Phase 4 drill program (see the Company's press releases dated June 15 and August 3, 2023). Assay results are expected during September. The property is on trend with the El Salvador mine located 15km to the NW which has been in production for over 60 years. The Salvadora property currently has 5 zones of interest with only 3 having been drilled to date. Salvadora is being explored for large scale copper-gold porphyry targets and high-grade epithermal gold-silver-copper vein systems.

Nancagua is a high grade mesothermal gold-silver prospect and Punta Alta is an IOCG prospect with related disseminated and vein style copper-gold-silver-cobalt mineralization.

For further information, please contact:

Gordon Aldcorn, VP Corporate Development

Email: galdcorn@sanlorenzogold.ca

Ph: 403-618-6507

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release.

Not for distribution to United States newswire services or for release, publication, distribution or dissemination directly, or indirectly, in whole or in part, in or into the United States

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Information

This press release may contain forward-looking information that involves substantial known and unknown risks and uncertainties, most of which are beyond the control of San Lorenzo. All statements included herein, other than statements of historical fact, are forward-looking information. Such forward-looking information involves various risks and uncertainties. There can be no assurance that such information will prove to be accurate, and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such information. Any forward-looking statements are made as of the date of this release and, other than as required by applicable securities laws, San Lorenzo does not assume any obligation to update or revise them to reflect new events or circumstances.

Copyright (c) 2023 TheNewswire - All rights reserved.
A leading China expert in South Africa said the current BRICS is people-centered, not market-centered, hoping that the bloc is structured in a way that members agree on common issues. David Monyae, director of the Center for Africa-China Studies at the University of Johannesburg Confucius Institute, said the bloc, in its present form, lays emphasis on development. Jim O'Neil created the acronym BRIC in 2001 when he was working for Goldman Sachs as a chief economist. He found Brazil, Russia, India and China to be on a similar stage as emerging economies. Leaders of the four countries held their first summit in 2009. South Africa joined the group in 2010. Monyae said the "current BRICS is people-centered, not market-centered". BRICS is much more comprehensive, he said, adding: "You cannot have BRICS as an elite club of the Global South." Monyae said he wishes that BRICS would think beyond elites, open to others and be structured in a way that members agree on common issues. "We need to be very clear and understand what we are doing. The moment we understand these concepts and think them through, it becomes easier to find criteria in which to admit (new) members," he said. Argentina, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates were invited at the just-concluded Johannesburg summit to join BRICS as full members from Jan 1 next year. Monyae said it is a question of sharpening the areas of convergence such as fighting poverty, increasing trade, infrastructure connectivity, understanding pandemics and peace-building. Monyae said Chinese President Xi Jinping's speech at the summit was historic and unlike the rest, it offered practical solutions. President Xi suggested ensuring the global value chain is not biased toward a particular country, but is shared by all, Monyae said. This is in addition to ensuring the currency system is democratic and inclusive. President Xi looks at the entire Global South, he said. "BRICS is playing a catalytic role in bringing to life the wishes and aspirations of the Global South." Monyae said the idea proposed by President Xi on digital education and innovation as well as sharing satellite sensing is critical. "Satellite sensing will give the Global South early warnings on disasters, help them in agriculture and other areas, including trade," he said. Monyae said: "When it comes to sea and space among other areas, it's the wild, wild West  it's the he or she who has a big gun who dictates everyone else." "This is not the international relations we want. We want one where there is consensus, inclusivity. You bring everyone on board, and this is a good start by President Xi," he said. "I think it will gain momentum, particularly in Africa, where we wish our people should also go to space and learn. We can't be left behind because we are poor." Spirit of inclusiveness Monyae lauded President Xi's call for BRICS countries to champion the spirit of inclusiveness, advocate peaceful coexistence and harmony between civilizations, and promote respect for all countries who independently choose their modernization paths. Within the BRICS setting, it is just a question of uniting, and bringing together universities, he said. "People carry with them their traditions, values and civilizations. So, for you to have harmony, you need to learn from other civilizations," he said. Monyae praised President Xi's call for international rules to be written and upheld jointly by all countries based on the purposes and principles of the UN Charter, rather than be dictated by those with the strongest muscle or loudest voice. What's happening currently, he said, is a selective way of applying international law. Monyae said many countries are unhappy with the current world order. When it was born in 1945, the bulk of countries in Africa were not part of the United Nations system. "We are not anti-America, we are not anti-West, we are anti-bully, we are anti-hegemonic. We are not anti-dollar, we are for more currencies so that we have a choice," he said. "We need much more representation, we need more democratization of institutions of global governance, reform of the UN Security Council and the UN agencies. It can't be that the presidents of the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank are Americans and Europeans, we need a shift and fair change."
There were many and varied reasons behind the election of Donald Trump as president, but certainly one argument, heard time and again, contributed to his appeal: that the federal government was such a mess that the solution was to run it "like a business" and that the way to accomplish that was to elect a successful corporate executive. Now that the presidential transition is upon us, many of the people being selected or mentioned as cabinet appointees have stronger ties to the private sector than the public sector.Trump is not the first politician, by any means, to benefit from this this claim. Numerous successful state and local candidates have made similar cases during their runs for office. Illinois Gov. Bruce Rauner's argument in his successful gubernatorial campaign centered around his business success. Three decades before that, fast-food magnate John Y. Brown successfully argued that he should be elected governor of Kentucky so that he could run the state like he had run Kentucky Fried Chicken.This is not a 21st-century -- or even a 20th-century -- phenomenon. In a classic 1887 article, Woodrow Wilson, then a professor at Princeton University, maintained that there was a "science of administration" -- arguing, in effect, that there were principles of management that transcended the context in which they were applied. "The field of administration is a field of business," wrote Wilson. "It is removed from the hurry and strife of politics."Later observers and scholars of public administration thoroughly discredited this notion. The pithiest statement on the topic came from Wallace Sayre of Columbia University, who argued in 1958 that "public and private management [were] fundamentally alike in all unimportant respects." In 1979, Graham Allison, then dean of the Kennedy School of Government at Harvard, used Sayre's comment as a launching point from which to examine similarities and differences. He noted that both private firms and governments must set objectives, develop plans to achieve those objectives, hire people and direct them toward the achievement of objectives, and manage external environments. But he observed that thein which these things occur is often fundamentally different from one sector to another.Allison cited several examples of officials who went from high-level business careers to high-level government service and judged "public management different from private management -- and harder!" We could add to his list former Goldman Sachs executive and Clinton treasury secretary Robert Rubin, who observed that, compared to government, "the range of issues that you confront on Wall Street is really very narrow."Some consensus has developed among scholars about the fundamental ways that running a government is different from running a business. Here are a few: Government is about this thing called the "public interest." There is no such animal in the private sector. Private firms care about their stakeholders and customers; they do not generally care about people who do not invest in their businesses or buy things from them. Thus, accountability is by necessity much broader in government; it is much more difficult to ignore particular groups or people. Private-sector performance is measured by profitability, while performance measurement in government needs to focus on the achievement of outcomes. Compromise is fundamental to success in the public sector. No one owns a controlling share of the government. When Gov. Rauner and the state legislature refused to negotiate, it resulted in Illinois operating without a budget for a full year. The notion of a separation of powers can be anathema to effective private management. It is central to the design of government, at least in the United States. Government must constantly confront competing values. The most efficient solution may disadvantage certain groups or trample on individual or constitutional rights. In the private sector, efficiency is value number one; in government, it is just one of many values. Government has a shorter time horizon. In government, the long term may describe the period between now and the next election. Thus there is a strong incentive to show relatively immediate impact. Government actions take place in public, with much scrutiny from the press and the public. There is no equivalent of C-SPAN showing how decisions are made in the corporate boardroom. Corporate leaders do not find it necessary to explain their every decision to reporters.This partial list is intended simply to remind all of us that a government, particularly a large one such as a state or a big city or county, is an extremely complex enterprise to manage, much more so than any company. It remains to be seen, of course, how successful President-elect Trump and his appointees will be. To the extent that they are successful, however, it will not be because of their business experience but in spite of it.
Zenith Bank and PAPSS Partnership: Enhancing Cross-Border Trade for Ghanaian SMEs

Graphic.com.gh Adverts Aug - 28 - 2023 , 21:30

Cross-border trade presents significant challenges for Ghanaian businesses.

The inefficiencies and high costs of existing payment systems hinder expansion beyond Ghana's borders. The complexities arising from differing currencies, rules, and intermediaries result in complicated transactions and substantial fees, eroding profits and global competitiveness.

However, amid these difficulties, entrepreneurs persevere, envisioning a future where seamless, real-time transactions facilitate international trade.

PAPSS: Revolutionizing African Cross-Border Trade

The hurdles faced by corporate entities, small and medium scale enterprises as well as individuals with cross-border trade are not unique; they resonate across Africa.

Zenith Bank's partnership with the Pan African Payment and Settlements System (PAPSS) however aims to revolutionize cross-border trade.

PAPSS, an initiative designed to promote intra-African trade and reduce reliance on foreign parties (which currently costs the continent a staggering US$5 billion yearly through existing payment channels) presents a simplified, secure, and cheaper expeditious alternative, bridging the gap between trading partners within days, not weeks.

The platform also contributes to financial inclusion and African unity.

Ghanaian SMEs reaping the benefits

The partnership with PAPSS offers substantial advantages and opportunities for Ghanaian SMEs. A pivotal benefit is the streamlining of cross-border payments. Kwame Adadey, Divisional Head of Zenith Bank, asserts that this collaboration underscores Africans' ability to solve unique challenges collectively.

It underscores our belief in the African project that, as Africans, we can provide solutions for our unique problems. PAPSS is one of them, says Mr. Adadey.

Gone are the days of convoluted currency conversions and exorbitant transaction fees. Businesses in Ghana can now engage directly with counterparts across Africa, transacting in local currencies. This reduction in costs amplifies competitiveness and fosters growth.

Moreover, the efficient framework of PAPSS empowers Ghanaian SMEs to access previously unattainable markets and clients throughout the continent. The eradication of trade barriers stemming from inefficient payment systems paves the way for unprecedented expansion.

Zenith Bank: The Ultimate Cross-Border Partner

Zenith Bank's prominence as a financial services provider makes it an ideal choice for cross-border trade under PAPSS. Its exceptional service quality, surpassing industry standards, and extensive continental network are standout attributes.

This network not only benefits large enterprises but significantly aids SMEs, enabling them to venture beyond national boundaries for growth.

Zenith Bank's advanced technological infrastructure ensures secure, seamless transactionsa crucial component for cross-border traders. Its digital banking solutions facilitate efficient financial operations, while its commitment to excellence reassures customers.

For SMEs navigating cross-border trade, Zenith Bank's reliability and technological prowess are invaluable.

Touching on the subject, Mr. Adadey explained, It boils down to why anyone would want to do business with Zenith Bank. Why are we the preferred choice? One major aspect is the unparalleled quality of service we provide.

Zenith Banks service standards surpass what customers would usually find elsewhere. I can confidently assure you that the customer experience is so exceptional that we witness a constant influx of non-customers who come in to carry out transactions, only to become loyal customers due to the speed and convenience we offer.

Spearheading Digitalization

As we move into the future, the financial sector is rapidly embracing digitalisation, and Zenith Bank stands at the forefront of this technological shift.

Consequently, Zenith Bank envisions a future where customers will be able to access PAPSS seamlessly without the need to physically visit a brick-and-mortar branch. This digital transformation will undoubtedly enhance customer convenience and accessibility to financial services.

Guidance and Empowerment

Beyond financial services, Zenith Bank distinguishes itself through comprehensive advisory and financial sensitisation efforts. These initiatives equip SMEs with the knowledge to navigate international trade intricacies, fortifying their decision-making and expanding their market reach.

Continental Goals

Zenith Bank's partnership extends beyond transactions. Its contributions to forums and engagements leverage its experience, enriching discussions on continental goals.

In the context of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA)  the largest economic bloc in the world, which connects 1.3 billion people across 55 countries with a combined gross domestic product (GDP) valued at US$3.4 trillion  partnership with PAPSS gains even more significance.

AfCFTA's vast economic potential and Zenith Bank's integration with PAPSS positions it as a key player in this continental trade revolution.

A Vision of Prosperity

Zenith Bank's collaboration with PAPSS symbolizes a future where African trade transcends borders, fostering growth, success, and economic unity. Through this transformative partnership, countless African traders envision a brighter future. In the narrative of an economically prosperous Africa, the association echoes Zenith Bank x PAPSS.
Genetically modified cowpea to be commercialised

Elizabeth Nyaadu Adu Business News Aug - 29 - 2023 , 03:23

GHANA will have its first locally developed genetically modified (GM) cowpea (beans)  Bt Songotra variety released for commercial cultivation by the close of the year.

Developed by the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR)-Savannah Agriculture Research Institute (SARI), it has produced sufficient early generation seeds and is working towards making them available for seed companies to multiply for distribution to farmers.

This development is expected to help increase the production of the crop, strengthen the countrys food security, and help reduce the prices of the crop, a major staple in the country.

The Principal Investigator in charge of GM Cowpea project at CSIR SARI, Dr Jerry Nboyine who announced this at a scientific community workshop in Accra, said we aim to release an additional after varieties of GM cowpea after 2023; these will be Bt Apagbaala, Bt Padituya, Bt Wang-Kae, Bt Kirkhouse Benga.

Exploring methods of producing a second generation of Pod Borer Resistance (PBR) Cowpeas that expresses cry 1 Ab and Cry 2 Ab is ongoing.

He explained that the goal of the PBR cowpea project is to contribute to food security and improve livelihood for small-holder farmers in SSA by using biotechnology tools to develop improved, high yielding farmer preferred cowpea varieties that are resistant to attacks.

The workshop organized by Open Forum on Agricultural Biotechnology (OFAB) brought together scientists to dialogue on the ongoing GM technology activities in Ghana and to shed light on the significant progress made in the development of a GM product, specifically the PBR cowpea, within the CSIR.

Ghanas annual demand for cowpea is estimated at 169,000 tonnes, meanwhile, the country produces only 57,000 tonnes annually.

This is because average yield on farmers is below 1.0 tonne per hectre due to insects and pests.

Developing biotechnology products

Emphasising the importance of the workshop, the Director-General of CSIR Ghana, Prof. Paul Bosu, said in a world where science and technology play an increasingly vital role in shaping the future, it is imperative that scientists and advocates are equipped with accurate knowledge to effectively communicate.

He said their ability to convey the benefits and implications of GM technology to stakeholders, policymakers, and the public at large is pivotal for informed decision-making and progress.

He explained that it is crucial to acknowledge that developing biotechnology products, such as the PBR Cowpea, is a complex journey laden with legal requirements and regulatory scrutiny.

CSIR has achieved a significant milestone in obtaining environmental release approval for the PBR Cowpea, a testament to the dedication and diligence of our scientists and partners. However, securing approval is only one facet; effective communication is the bridge that connects innovation with societal acceptance.

In this respect, CSIR's collaboration with OFAB and partners like AATF will continue to be instrumental, providing a powerful communication platform to advocate for the acceptance of the approved PBR Cowpea.

In the pursuit of advocating for the acceptance of biotechnology products, it is paramount that we, the scientists, become ambassadors and champions of our own creations.

Guidelines on genome editing

The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the National Biosafety Authority (NBA), Eric Okoree, said the authority is working on guidelines for the regulatory process of genome editing to ensure safe development, transfer, handling and use of genetically modified organisms.

In September, we will be coming out with guidelines in genome editing. Now genome editing is not a classical way where the gene is transferred from the donor to the recipient through the gene gun or the agrobacterium

So to practice that in Ghana, we have come out with guidelines on that. We have also come out with guidelines on stack genes which grants the opportunity for anyone who wants to add a gene on another, he said.
Israeli security companies partner Ghana to tackle threats

Emelia Ennin Abbey Business News Aug - 29 - 2023 , 06:06

Ghana and Israel are exploring ways of enhancing partnership to help address Ghanas security threats.

The move includes promoting Israeli technologies that can enhance Ghanas security infrastructure and provide high-end solutions for border security, maritime security, cybercrime, illegal mining and human trafficking.

It is to help Ghana address the various threats such as clashes between farmers and herdsmen, clashes between local groups, human trafficking, arms smuggling and armed robbery that the country faces.

In line with this, the Israeli Economic and Trade Mission in collaboration with the Israeli Export Institute and the Ghana-Israel Business Chambers on Tuesday, August 22, 2023, hosted a seminar aimed at promoting Israeli technologies that can enhance Ghana's security infrastructure.

The seminar was used to showcase high-end innovative security technologies of eight Israeli businesses with an aim to promote joint ventures and international partnerships between the Israeli business security solution providers and Ghanaian public and private institutions.

Some of the solutions showcased at the seminar included technologies to fight crime and terrorism, tactical intelligence operations, Artificial intelligence solutions and technologies that could help Ghana win the fight against illegal mining popularly known as galamsey.

Israel has over 500 companies that export and operate in the homeland security arena by offering technologically advanced, field proven products and solutions.

Ghana relatively calm

At the opening of the maiden Israeli homeland security business delegation visit and summit in Accra, the head of the Economic and Trade Mission of Israel to Ghana, Yaniv Tessel, said as nations faced many security threats and challenges, Ghana was not an exception to the worrying phenomenon.

"Security in Ghana is relatively calm but there are several threats that the country faces, he said, we are all aware of the current coup in Niger and its troubling effect in the Sahel region of Africa.

Even though we get to enjoy some daily peace and stability in Ghana, we cannot exactly say that all is well in the sub-region given various reports of instability in most of Ghanas neighbouring countries.

Israel, he said, takes a comprehensive and multidisciplinary approach to homeland security with expertise in areas such as border protection, cybersecurity, counterterrorism, emergency response and disaster management.

The Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Israel Business Chamber, Edem Yevutsey, said the history of defence cooperation between Ghana and Israel provided a strong foundation for partnership in the area of homeland security.

That, he said, was because when Ghana established its Airforce in 1959, Israel was one of the countries that provided training for Ghana's pilots alongside technical support towards the establishment of the Ghana Air Force.

Over the years, Israel has worked with Ghana to enhance the capacity of special forces, counterterrorism and anti-money laundering units, among others and with defence cooperation agreements relating to the supply of military hardware and intelligence equipment.

The interconnected nature of the world, he said, was important for cooperation, knowledge-sharing, expertise-sharing to ensure security and peace.
SSNIT on agressive drive to rope in informal sector

Kwame Larweh Business News Aug - 29 - 2023 , 03:53

The Social Security and National Insurance Trust(SSNIT) has launched a novel project to register workers in the informal sector into the national pension scheme to guarantee them a better retirement.

Under the initiative called the Self-Employed Enrolment Drive (SEED), it will see staff of SNNIT intrude the privacy of workers in the markets, community centres, event centres, streets and other targeted business enclaves to register them onto the SNNIT platform.

Those registered will now have access to the SNNIT Pension scheme during their retirement or in the case of permanent invalidity; where an individual or a person cannot work due to physical impaiment or injury before retirement.

The objective of the initiative is to secure the future of majority of Ghanaian workers who are not SNNIT members but are mandated to register with SNNIT to receive some form of income when they retire.

At the launch at the SNNIT Pension House in Accra last Friday, the Deputy Director General of SNNIT in charge of Finance and Administration, Michael Addo, noted that SNNIT is the only insurance provider in the country that provides protection against loss of income, disability, old age and permanent invalidity.

Any self-employed person, or any Ghanaian who works can register with SNNIT and benefit from the SNNIT Pension Scheme, he noted.

He disclosed that only two percent of self-employed persons out of 1.9 million Ghanaian workers have registered with SNNIT adding that the situation is alarming and unfortunate.

The initiative dubbed  Ye Wo Aboten which connotes We are outside will insure the old age of these informal sector workers when they are no longer working and if they are registered on the SNNIT pensions scheme.

He further revealed that the beneficiary of SSNIT pension with the highest monthly income amounting to GH169,000 is a self-employed businessman.

At the launch which was marked with some processions on some principal streets of Accra, staff of SNNIT don Ye Wo Abonten branded T-Shirts to create awareness about the project.

Mr Addo further noted that a simple way to register onto the SNNIT Pension Scheme is for one to dial the number *791# .
Stanchart supports 5 women-led starts-ups with GH550,000

Elizabeth Nyaadu Adu Business News Aug - 29 - 2023 , 08:14

Five women-led start-ups have received seed funding of GH110,000 each under Standard Chartered Bank Ghana PLCs Women in Technology Incubator Programme, to scale up their businesses.

They are Natalie Fordwor, Wonderspace website; Lucie E Blay, Legal Find; Naa Kukuokor Owoo, Esse Studios; Umar Farouk Mubaraka, Kodu Technology, and Laura Pepera, Virtutoronline.

In addition to the seed funding, the businesses will receive portfolio management support over the next 10 weeks, exposure to potential investors who are looking to support women-led businesses, and would also be joining the global SCWIT alumni network where they will have access to additional networking events, resources, content and business scaling opportunities.

The beneficiaries emerged winners after a rigorous pitch process in a comprehensive incubator programme aimed at empowering women-led start-ups, as well as providing them with the necessary resources and support to thrive.

The programme is implemented in partnership with the Ghana Climate Innovation Centre (GCIC), an Ashesi University business incubator.

Supporting diversity

At the SC Women in Technology graduation ceremony last Thursday, the Consumer Private and Business Banking, Standard Chartered Bank Ghana PLC, Yvonne Gyebi, said, as a bank we celebrate these incredible women, a powerful testament to the limitless potential of diversity and innovation.

With our Women in Tech programme we are championing economic inclusion for female businesses.

We are inspired by their journey of breaking down barriers that truly reflects the world we live in.

She explained that the Standard Chartered Women in Technology Incubator programme speaks to the banks strategy of investing in women-owned businesses to bring greater prosperity and diversity to the communities in which they operate with emphasis on supporting innovation, infrastructure and technology.

She said through such initiatives, women entrepreneurs have a platform to build capacity and realise their full potential in the world of business.

The Executive Director of GCIC, Ruka Sanusi, expressed her profound enthusiasm for the significant strides being made to drive innovation and sustainable solutions in an ever-evolving technological landscape.

She highlighted the pivotal role that collaboration, knowledge exchange and empowerment of women entrepreneurs play in propelling the society towards a greener and more prosperous future.
Vodafone Healthline Call Centre touches over 3,000 lives  Set to conclude its operations

Business Desk Report Business News Aug - 25 - 2023 , 17:25

Vodafone Healthline Call Centre which was relaunched during the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic to provide accurate information and expert medical advice to people living in Ghana has impacted the lives of 30,460 people.

However, the initiative is now set to conclude its operations in August 2023, considering the World Health Organization's (WHO) declaration that the COVID-19 pandemic is no longer a global emergency.

In a release issued by the company, it said the Healthline Call Centre is a toll-free assistance on Vodafone and other networks manned by licensed medical doctors.

At the peak of the pandemic, the Vodafone Healthline Call Centre served as a reliable source of information to combat the spread of erroneous COVID-19 information and rumours, which was a major concern for governments and medical workers worldwide.

In addition to the call centre offering first-line medical advice to callers with symptoms of COVID-19, the team also worked with the national COVID-19 surveillance team to report any physical contact by callers with infected persons to enable proper contact tracing, it said.

Commenting on the impact of the call centre, the Legal and External Affairs Director of Vodafone Ghana, Preba Greenstreet, was excited about the impact of the Healthline Call Centre during its operation.

She explained that the touching stories recorded over the years were truly heart-warming and validate the companys commitment to impact lives.

Through this initiative, many lives have been saved, chronic diseases have been diagnosed early and referred to medical facilities, free sexual and reproduction counselling have been provided and we can say we have improved the quality of life of many Ghanaians.

We can now confidently bring its operations to an end and focus on our other initiatives in health and education, she added.

According to the release, the Call Centre was staffed by 50 doctors from the Ghana Health Services (GHS) who underwent specialised COVID-19 training.

As the infections reduced, the number of doctors were gradually reduced, and their focus shifted to general medical advice.

The call centre has exemplified the efficacy of telemedicine in complementing traditional healthcare services.

While this marks the end of a crucial chapter in the fight against COVID-19, Vodafone Ghana Foundation remains committed to its mission of improving the well-being of Ghanaians, it added.
Yango Drivers happy over new changes to app

African Automotive News Business News Aug - 28 - 2023 , 15:29

Drivers of leading ride-hailing service, Yango, have disclosed that the latest changes to the platform such as the earnings and flexible mode, Yango Map and Yango Pay, have significantly improved driving experience, aside enhancing convenience and productivity on the app.

In line with its ideals of providing convenient and safe transport to Ghanaians, Yango continues to improve its value proposition on the domestic ride-hailing market with regular changes and addition of new features that deliver superior riding experience to both drivers and riders.

According to the drivers, the new changes that have been introduced in the app uphold Yangos willingness to respond to feedback from its partners, drivers and riders in general.

There have been several changes to the Yango app which is very good. For instance, we see changes in the earnings side and recently we saw the introduction of Yango Maps, which is very good because it helps drivers to justify their earnings per trip.

Also, we [drivers] are now able to choose which map to use and that has been very effective for my work. For drivers on the flexible mode, we have an advantage because we dont pay much commission, said Rexford Cudjoe Mensah, one of the drivers, said in an interview.

According to him, these latest additions to the Yango App have also improved driver safety and enhanced general experience on the app.

He added: I can say that Yango is a very responsive app in the sense that the company pays attention to feedback from drivers in terms of market trends and challenges and take appropriate actions on them.

This has greatly improved the app experience compared to when I started driving on it.

Mr Cudjoe Mensah further touched on the benefit of driving on the Flexible Mode: Its less stressful; it releases me from the burden of having to worry about the number trips, uploading my balance and also my earnings.

Due to the several benefits that this mode provides, most drivers are ever ready to drive on the flexible mode, he added.
Let Ghanaian musicians breathe! Bob Marley and 2 Pac were successful musicians but never won a Grammy -Wendy Shay

Gifty Owusu-Amoah Showbiz News Aug - 29 - 2023 , 13:33

Wendy Shay has joined the list of Ghanaian musicians expressing their disgust for the constant evaluation of their works to that of Nigerians.

Even though Nigerians have been widely thought to be the benchmark for the success of musicians in Africa, it appears Ghanaian artistes are always facing the brutality of criticisms for what faultfinders believe is below par.

The simmering conversations have been boosted in the last few days when Shatta Wale described Ghanas music industry as a feeding bottle compared to the Nigerian industry, which he termed as a Hennessy bottle.

In the ensuing days, the likes of dancehall artiste, Stonebwoy joined in the conversation in a Twitter(X) Spaces discussion and expressed lots of hope about Ghanaian musicians having huge global impact and success when they also get the right backing and investments as their Nigerians counterparts.

For the likes of Fameye, the unwarranted assessment of Ghanaian artistes against Nigerians have got him depressed knowing just how much hard work the former were putting into their projects and yet, their efforts were being pooh-poohed because of the successes chalked by Nigerians on the international stage in recent years.

Perhaps, to show support and condemn unjustified attacks on Ghanaian musicians, Wendy Shay noted that filling the O2 arena and winning Grammy should not be the standard for measuring the success of an artiste.

In a tweet(X) earlier today (August 29), Wendy Shay, who is known for songs such as Emergency, Habibi, Kut It, Masakra, and All For You said great music icons like Bob Marley and 2Pac never won a Grammy so critics of Ghanaian musicians should let them breathe.

Why is filing the O2 arena and winning Grammy become the standard to measure the success of an artiste?

Bob Marley and 2 Pac are successful musicians but never won a Grammy. Let Ghanaian musicians breathe, Wendy Shay posted.

Related article: Potential investors dont understand the music industry -Stonebwoy
Oguaa Fetu Afahye: a vibrant celebration of tradition and culture this weekend

Edith Mensah Showbiz News Aug - 29 - 2023 , 11:40

The highly patronised Oguaa Fetu festival is set to kick off this weekend in Cape Coast, Ghana, promising a captivating display of rich cultural heritage, tradition and vibrant festivities.

This annual event holds immense significance to the people of Cape Coast and beyond, drawing participants, mostly indigenes, festival goers and spectators from across the country and outside as well.

The Oguaa Fetu Afahye is deeply rooted in the history and traditions of Fantes from Oguaa(Cape Coast) and it is yearly celebrated as a symbol of unity, thanksgiving and renewal.

The festival serves as an opportunity for locals to reconnect with their cultural roots and showcase their unique heritage to visitors.

One of the festival's highlights is the elaborate procession of chiefs and traditional leaders, adorned in splendid Kente cloth and gold jewelry, as they make their way to the sacred shrine to offer prayers and sacrifices.

This ritual symbolises the bond between the living and the spirits of their ancestors, seeking blessings for the year ahead.

Colourful parades, traditional drumming, and mesmerising cultural displays are integral to the festival's atmosphere.

The rhythms of the drums reverberate through the air, creating an infectious energy that draws attendees into the heart of the celebration.

Local artisans and craftsmen also seize the opportunity to display their intricate handiwork, showcasing the region's artistic prowess.

Food plays an essential role in the festival, with a wide array of traditional dishes available for attendees to savour.

Visitors can indulge in mouthwatering dishes such as Fufu and Light Soup, Banku and Okra Soup, and tantalising seafood platters.

This culinary journey offers a taste of the Fante culture and adds a delicious dimension to the festival experience.

The Oguaa Fetu Festival is more than just a cultural event; it also fosters social cohesion and economic growth.

The influx of tourists and visitors injects vitality into the local economy, supporting businesses and promoting tourism in the region.

As preparations are underway, locals and tourists alike are eagerly anticipating the grand opening of the festival.

With its captivating blend of tradition, artistry, and jubilant festivities, the Oguaa Fetu Afahye stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of the Fante people and their commitment to preserving their cultural heritage.

If you're seeking an immersive cultural experience this weekend, Cape Coast is the place to be. Join in the festivities and celebrate the vibrancy of Ghana's rich traditions.
This shouldnt have happened  Saint Obis widow breaks silence

premiumtimesng.com Showbiz News Aug - 29 - 2023 , 11:04

Linda Nwafor, wife of the late actor Obinna Nwafor, best known as Saint Obi, has broken her silence on her husbands untimely demise.

Saint Obi passed on 8 May in Plateau State at 57 after battling a protracted ailment. He was buried on 18 August in his hometown, Umuezealaeze, Alaenyi Ogwa, in Mbaitoli Local Government Area, Imo State.

Mrs Nwafor, a chief enterprise business officer at MTN Nigeria Communications Plc, married the movie star in December 2006. Until his death, the couple were involved in a messy divorce controversy which hit the internet in February 2022.

Yes! Magazine captured her on video at the funeral. There, she said it was difficult to accept that her children would no longer have a father.

Narrating their love story, Mrs Nwafor said, I believe our meeting was divinely orchestrated. You were highly domesticated; you could cook, bake and clean. I miss you. I still dont know how to feel.

Linda Nwafor paid glowing tribute to her husband, Saint Obi at his burial service recently

You told our mutual friends immediately after you set your eyes on me that the only reason I wasnt married was because I was waiting for you. You called me your wife even before you spoke to me. It was everything spiritual and a part of Gods plan. You told me that you knew that I would be your wife that very first day we met at the airport on my way to see my parents; it was October 2006.

She also spoke about his death and the effect on their young family.

This should not have happened. It is tough to accept that you are gone, that my children will no longer have a father, and that I will not hold your hulky frame again. My children and I pray for you daily. Your death has left us despondent. Losing you to the cold hands of death is my deepest sorrow. Nothing can heal the pain inside. I love you and always have.

Shortly after Saint Obis death, a close associate of the late actor, Zik Zulu Okafor, set the internet agog with a lengthy post about the late actors marital life and how it may have led to his demise.

However, the family, in a statement signed by two of his sisters, Ugoeze Edith Chinyere Obichuku and Freda Nwachukwu, debunked Mr Okafors allegation, describing them as false and malicious.

Saint Obi, the family man

The late movie star was a father- of- three, with two sons and a daughter, Chideta, Obinna, and Nnemdi.

At his funeral, his first son, Chidera, noted that his dads death forced him to become a man.

He described his late dad as an amazing actor who brought smiles to the faces of people and thanked him for impacting his life.

Thank you for teaching me the way of life. I know you are watching over me. I have been forced to grow up into leadership. I will lead, Dad. I will protect my mum and siblings, especially from the preying press, as you did while you were here. I will always love you till we meet again, he said.

More tributes

It was revealed that Saint Obi spent his last days with his sister, Nancy Jawfu, in Jos, Plateau State, where he later died.

The actor was the only son of his parents and had six sisters.

His immediate older sister, Hope Nwafor-Okpala, opened up on his last days and reminisced on their childhood.

She described the movie star as her twin brother, despite their age difference, saying they were fond of each other and even started school on the same day since they were inseparable.

During the last years of his life, Obinna and I were in constant communication, reminiscing over old friends, our family and our childhood. Even while I drove to work in the morning, we would speak on the phone, and in the evening, we would even have group calls with some of our sisters.

I will always remember the last prayer we prayed to one another. Just as I will always remember and cherish the last text you sent to me, just the night before you passed, we even called each other by our childhood nicknames. I called you Obikisa, and you called me Abunti.

Related article: Veteran Nollywood actor, Saint Obi, is dead

Nollywood actors attend Saint Obis candlelight service
Inclusion, belonging for persons living with Cerebral Palsy

Amani Iddrissu Opinion Aug - 29 - 2023 , 11:08

Every morning, as the sun gently peeks through the curtains, my sister greets the day with a warm smile, and glowing hope, despite her challenge.

With a bit of assistance, she rises from her bed, ready to take on the day.

She loves choosing her outfit for school, and with a little help putting on her shoes and zipping up, she feels a sense of accomplishment.

At breakfast, she confidently takes her spoon, relishing the joy of eating by herself without support while occasionally making some mess with her food that we all, as a family, cheerfully clean up together.

Her wit and humour sparkle, and she enjoys friendly banters with me (big sister) and the rest of the family, filling the household with laughter and love.

Despite her unique circumstances, she interacts with everyone just like any other person would.

Throughout the day, she tackles her studies with interest, often surprising teachers with her determination to learn and excel.

Even in the face of challenges, she embraces each moment, teaching people around her, both at school and home, valuable lessons about resilience and the beauty of cherishing life's little victories.

CP

Cerebral palsy, often referred to as CP, is a collection of conditions that impact a persons movement, balance and posture.

It is the most prevalent motor disability experienced during childhood.

The term cerebral relates to the brain, indicating that the inability involves challenges with parts of the brains functions.

Palsy points to weaknesses or difficulties in using the muscles.

As a result of my sisters condition, I have devoted time to studying Cerebral Palsy at the age of 17.

CP comes in three main types, each with its unique characteristics.

Spastic CP is the most common type, affecting about 80 per cent of individuals living with CP.

People with this form experience increased muscle tone, making their muscles stiff and their movements somewhat difficult.

Next is the Ataxic Cerebral Palsy.

For those with ataxic CP, balance and coordination become challenging.

They might appear unsteady while walking or find it difficult to perform quick or precise movements, like writing.

Controlling their hands or arms when reaching for something can also be tough.

Lastly, there is the Athetoid CP, which results in involuntary muscle movements.

It is the second most common type and can cause individuals to struggle with controlling their body movements.

Each person living with cerebral palsy is unique, and these descriptions provide an overview of the different ways CP can manifest.

Despite these challenges, individuals with cerebral palsy have their own strengths and abilities, and they deserve understanding, respect and support to thrive in their daily lives.

Admire

Living with a sister with a CP, I have come to admire that they are special people and individuals who, like everyone else, deserve acceptance and compassion.

In my study of the condition, I was disappointed to find that there is no cure for CP currently, despite the advancement in science.

My sister is privileged to have a family that lends her hundred per cent support daily and goes to a special school that has a support system in place for her to thrive.

My desire to probe further into challenges with persons living with CP was intensified when my mum took my sister and I to visit less privileged children with the condition at a care home in Teshie, a suburb of Accra.

The owner of the home is a member of the Special Mothers Project, a group that creates awareness and provides support for cerebral palsy in Ghana.

The children at this care home have very limited support because their parents cannot afford the cost of sending them to special schools or equipment to provide aid to them.

Hope

There is hope for the future for persons living with CP, as researchers are continuously working on advancements that might further improve the lives of those with the condition.

Let us treat them like any other friend by inviting them to social activities and events.

Emotional support is incredibly important too  just being there to listen can mean a lot to them.

It is important to remember that individuals with cerebral palsy, just like us, are individuals with emotions and should be treated with love and care.

Since every child's situation is unique, there is no one-size-fits-all solution.

Thus, the Afrakoma Foundation seeks to bring experts, caregivers, parents of persons living with the condition, service providers and both health and education policymakers together on August 30, 2023, at the British Council Auditorium to deliberate on how we can support persons living with cerebral palsy.

If we commit and take action now, it will help many more living with cerebral palsy realise their dreams.

The writer is a high school student of Association International School.
Upholding traditional values: Case against entertaining LGBTQIA+

Emmanuel Ansah-Antwi Opinion Aug - 29 - 2023 , 10:11

Ghana, known for its rich cultural heritage and strong traditional values, is currently facing a heated debate on whether it should accept and entertain the LGBTQIA+ community within its borders.

This is evident in the Anti-gay bill before Parliament.

While calls for inclusivity and diversity are important aspects of a progressive society, it is crucial to consider the context of Ghana's unique cultural landscape and the potential impact on social cohesion and traditional values.

Religious beliefs, cultural heritage

With a significant Christian, Muslim and traditional population, Ghana strongly holds religious beliefs that overwhelmingly reject homosexuality.

The major religious doctrines in the country categorically consider LGBTQIA+ relationships or activities as sinful or immoral, based on scriptural interpretations.

Accepting and entertaining the LGBTQIA+ community would be perceived by many Ghanaians as a direct violation of deeply held religious values, potentially leading to social unrest and a widening societal divide.

Ghana proudly celebrates its diverse cultural heritage, with each ethnic group contributing unique traditions, customs and social norms.

The majority of Ghanaians believe that same-sex relationships and practices are incongruent with their cultural values.

Tradition encompasses the notion that procreation through heterosexual relationships is essential for the survival of Ghanaian society and the respect for elders and ancestors.

Embracing LGBTQIA+ individuals and their lifestyle choices would be seen as diluting these long-standing cultural values.

Historical perspective

Indeed, Ghana's struggle for independence and liberation from colonial rule was anchored on the values of self-determination, national identity and cultural pride.

Accepting and entertaining the LGBTQIA+ community may be perceived by some Ghanaians as an imposition of Western values, reminiscent of the colonial era.

Consequently, this could undermine the nation's hard-won independence and undermine its cultural identity.

Public health concerns

As a developing country, Ghana faces several pressing public health challenges.

The focus should be on tackling issues such as healthcare disparities, infectious diseases and maternal and child mortality.

Allocating resources towards LGBTQIA+ causes, which some argue are lifestyle choices, could divert already limited resources and hinder progress in addressing these pressing public health concerns.

Prioritising LGBTQIA+ rights could lead to resentment among the general population and hinder necessary progress on public health issues.

Social cohesion

Ghanaian society is built on strong communal values, where family and social structures play a central role.

Acceptance and equality for LGBTQIA+ individuals may disrupt these structures, causing significant social tension and potentially jeopardising stability.

Societal acceptance should be gradual and organic, allowing time for constructive dialogue, education and understanding to foster a more inclusive environment for all Ghanaians in a manner that is respectful to traditional values.

It is crucial to recognise the repercussions that Ghana could face by rejecting the LGBTQIA+ ideology.

This decision may lead to Ghana being isolated by both the Western and international communities, resulting in a lack of investment, loans and potentially even trade embargoes on interactions with the country.

Conclusion

Throughout history, Ghana has relied on aid, foreign direct investment (FDI), loans and various forms of assistance.

However, despite these efforts, the country continues to struggle with underdevelopment.

In light of this, Ghana should remain steadfast in its decision and not be swayed by the threats made by organisations like the World Bank to Uganda or the statements made by the USA Ambassador to Ghana, which may be seen as empty words.

Instead, Ghana should view these threats as an opportunity for self-reliance.

By standing firm in its values and principles, the country can carve its own path and achieve positive outcomes in the future.

An example that Ghana can look to for inspiration is the story of Singapore.

When Singapore was forced to separate from its alliance with Malaysia, its founding father, Lee Kuan Yew, shed tears.

However, today, Singapore stands as an independent nation and has become a renowned case study for its remarkable development.

In summary, by staying true to our convictions, Ghana may face isolation and potential economic consequences from the Western and International communities.

However, this should be seen as a chance for Ghana to pursue self-reliance and ultimately achieve success and development, just as Singapore has managed to do.
Nkwatia Presby SHS Assistant Headmaster relieved of duties for assaulting student

Kweku Zurek Education Aug - 29 - 2023 , 05:25

The Ghana Education Service (GES) has strongly criticized the reported assault of a student by the Assistant Headmaster (Academics) of Nkwatia Presby Senior High School (SHS).

Photographs and videos of the student's heavily bruised face have been widely circulated on social media generating widespread outrage.

Expressing deep concern, the GES has released a statement denouncing the Assistant Headmaster's actions. The GES has taken decisive action by relieving the Assistant Headmaster of his duties. Simultaneously, the student is being provided with necessary medical attention and counselling.

The GES has also confirmed that the Eastern Regional Director of Education is collaborating with the school administration and the relevant law enforcement agency to initiate a thorough investigation into the incident.

Assuring the public of its commitment to fostering a secure and conducive learning environment for students nationwide, the GES has expressed its dedication to upholding these standards.

The incident has ignited widespread outrage on social media, prompting calls for the Assistant Headmaster's arrest and legal consequences.

Below is the entire statement:
Ridge Church School holds 66th Speech Day

Elizabeth Konadu-Boakye Education Aug - 29 - 2023 , 06:44

The Global Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) of HuD Group, Dr Yaw Perbi, has urged young people to set and show good examples to others in all circumstances.

Dr Perbi, who was speaking at the 66th Speech and Prize Giving Day of the Ridge Church School in Accra, said in a time where sometimes adults were the ones who encouraged wrong, young people should strive to be good examples that lead others in truth and honour.

"A good leader sets a good example; a bad leader does the opposite.

Sometimes, people don't like us for not following their bad example or for calling out bad example, but in a good society, good examples are a reward," he said.

Dr Perbi further encouraged young people to not settle for less in their pursuit of happiness and success but to be guided by who they were in Christ.

"We are all born to be kings and queens, princes and princesses in the Kingdom of God.

So you must be a good example in all circumstances; even if everyone is doing the wrong thing and adults are pushing you to do wrong," he added.

Speech Day

The 66th Speech and Prize Giving Day of the Ridge Church School was on the theme "Be a good example in all circumstances".

The day was used to honour deserving teachers, past students and current learners of the school for distinguishing themselves in relevant fields of social and academic endeavours.

The day was also used to highlight some successes and achievements chalked by the school over the academic year.

Appreciation

A Justice of the High Court, Justice Rita Abrokwah Doku, also encouraged the learners to lead by example and not be discouraged by the fact that they were young.

The Headmistress of the School, Nana Ama Acheampomaa Badasu, expressed appreciation to the entire staff, board and governors of the school, the schools management and the parents and guardians for their support throughout the academic year.

We are grateful to individuals, groups and organisations for their continuous assistance to the school over the years, she said.

She further encouraged the students and pupils to learn and put in their best effort for the academic year ahead.
103 years: Saltpond Municipal Hospital calls for overhaul

Shirley Asiedu-Addo Aug - 29 - 2023 , 05:53

After more than 100 years of existence, the Saltpond Municipal Government Hospital has one operating room and an age-old theatre bed with a faulty adjustable paddle.

The Medical Director of the hospital, Dr Michael Gyasi Danso, said the situation, many a time, caused unnecessary delays in the delivery of health care.

The hospitals five-bed accident and emergency unit has one washroom for both male and female patients.

Also, the facility does not have a standardised store where its consumables are kept after its store was razed by fire some years ago.

Some of the facility's infrastructure has deteriorated which requires urgent and immediate attention.

At the media launch of its 103rd anniversary at Saltpond last Friday, Dr Danso said the hospital was still operating store under trees", using a makeshift facility to store consumables since the store was destroyed by fire some years back.

On November 3, 2023, the hospital will mark its 103rd anniversary with a grand durbar.

The Saltpond Municipal Government Hospital was established in 1920 by the then colonial Governor, Sir Gordon Guggisberg, to serve as a hospital for Ghana's Navy officers.

It is the second oldest in the country, second only to the Akuse Government Hospital.

The operating theatre

The Korle Bu Teaching Hospital was also established by the same governor on October 9, 1923.

In 1951, the Saltpond hospital was renovated and handed over to the government.

It currently serves over 10,000 clients a year.

Expansion

Dr Danso said although all successive governments had done their bit to improve the facility, there was still a lot to be done.

He added that it was imperative for all to support to improve the state of infrastructure.

"We have clients coming from as far as Agona West, Ekumfi, Abura Asebu Kwamankese and it is important that the facility gets the due recognition that it deserves," Dr Danso stated.

The medical director said the hospital provided outpatient services, accident and emergency inpatient services, antenatal and postnatal care, deliveries, diabetes and hypertension clinics, family planning, eye care and physiotherapy services.

More recently, the hospital has added neonatal intensive care unit, nose and throat unit and a dental unit.

Tour

A tour of the facility showed that all the emergency beds were occupied.

The officer in charge of the Accident and Emergency Unit, Kweku Berko Fordjour, said any new emergency case would have to be treated in a plastic chair.

"All our patients are on oxygen now and it means any new case cannot have a bed here," he explained.

The Chief Executive Officer of CEOs Network Ghana, Ernest De-graft Egyir, who chaired the function, said the state of the hospital was disturbing for a facility that had served the people for more than 100 years, stressing that the narrative must change.

He said in reciprocity for its contribution to the total health and well-being of the people of the area, it was necessary for well-meaning citizens to support to improve the state of the facility.

Mr Egyir suggested an adoption policy for the hospital to ensure continuity of support for it.

He promised to build the accident and emergency center if by August 2024 neither government nor any organization had come to the aid of the hospital.

Mr Egyir appealed to benevolent organisations and individuals and to the GNPC Foundation to step in to help improve the state of the hospital.

Donation

A native of Saltpond and clinical pharmacist based in the United States, Dr Dominic Maison, used the occasion to present medical consumables, worth GH15,000, to the hospital and pledged his commitment to the development of the facility.

Support

The Chief of Saltpond, Nana Kwesi Ankwanda VII, and a spokesperson of the Nkusukum Traditional Area, Nana Kwesi Brebo, pledged to support efforts to develop the hospital into a facility befitting its status.

They appealed to all citizens of the area to come and support the hospital to provide quality healthcare services for the people in its catchment area.
1st Batch of degree teachers graduate from Abetifi Presby College of Education

Daily Graphic Aug - 29 - 2023 , 11:08

The Presbyterian College of Education at Abetifi in the Eastern Region has celebrated the graduation of its first batch of degree teachers.

The now degree-awarding institution,which is affiliated to the University of Cape Coast, graduated 362 students, 20 of them with First Class honours and 107 others obtaining Second Class Upper Division.

Commendation, advise

Addressing the ceremony, the outgoing Moderator of the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church of Ghana (PCG), the Rt Rev. Prof. Joseph Obiri Yeboah Mante, commended the college for its overall academic achievements.

He said the church established the college to impart holistic education by educating the head, hand and heart of its students, thus it was the expectation that students of Presbyterian schools would be academically good, be devoted to God to change their inner person and to also train themselves to acquire some vocation.

While congratulating the graduates, saying what they would do with their certificates was what mattered most, Rt Rev. Prof. Mante challenged them to live good lifestyles and to concentrate on the essentials of life in order to be worthy ambassadors of the college.

Curricular

The Principal of the college, Dr Phyllis Agyemang Nyarko, said the college was currently running a four-year Bachelor of Education Programme which replaced the three-year Diploma in Education Programme.

She said the college was affiliated to the University of Education Winneba for institutional support in curriculum and capacity building.

Dr Nyarko congratulated the graduates on their performance and advised them to continue to work hard in the field of work to lift the image of the school.

She thanked members of the governing council, staff and other stakeholders of the college for their selfless service.

The principal ,however, said in spite of the modest achievements by the college, there were some challenges that needed attention, among them being the need to provide more accommodation facilities for staff and students to meet the increasing population of the school.

Honours, projects

Dr Nyarko was later presented with a citation for her exemplary leadership which had seen the college achieving high academic laurels.

The Overall Best Student, Emmanuel Oppong, received a refrigerator.

Prior to the graduation ceremony, the Rt Rev. Prof. Mante inaugurated and dedicated three major projects in the college to enhance its operations.

The projects were the college medical centre, a two-bedroom semi-detached staff bungalow and new academic gowns for staff and students.

Rt Rev. Prof. Mante charged the management of the college to take good care of the projects for posterity.
400 Patronise exhibition on registered lands

Vincent Amenuveve Aug - 29 - 2023 , 09:35

An exhibition of registered lands in Ghana, spanning 1843 to 1960, has ended at the National Gallery of the Ghana National Museum in Accra, with more than 400 people from all walks of life patronising the event.

The exhibition, dubbed: Registered Lands: A significant heritage", was mounted between August 9 and 26, 2023.

It afforded researchers, students, tourists, lawyers, traditional rulers and the wider public the opportunity to explore the rich history behind acquisition of lands in Ghana.

Patrons were conducted round the L-shape section of the National Gallery in an orderly fashion.

The sections were divided into five provinces  the Western, Eastern and Central Provinces, Ashanti and Northern Territories  covering the entire country.

At some sections, indentures on mining concessions, timber and other natural resources were labelled with narratives on the transactions and those involved.

An integral part of the exhibits included the influential role women played in land business between the 1800s and 1900s.

The records shed light on the documented transactions that emphasised the contributions of women to the country's land history.

There was also a spotlight on the colonial administration during the era of Sir Gordon Guggisbergs governance and Dr Kwame Nkrumahs rule.

There were exhibits of land documents purchased by Dr Nkrumah for the establishment of the Ghana National Senior High School in Cape Coast on October 26, 1956; the Korle Lagoon acquisition on May 22, 1961; the Akosombo Dam; a master plan for the Accra-Tema Metropolitan area, and the Railway lands from Accra to Akuapim, among others.

The Needmet International LBG was the curator of the exhibition, which was sponsored by the British Library Endangered Archives Programme.

The exhibition also focused on digitalising and cataloguing the Deeds Registry as the major source of information and documentation on land administration in the country.

Patrons

One of the patrons, the Okyeman Adontenghene of Akyem Kukurantumi in the Eastern Region, Daasebre Boama Darko, lauded the curators and the Ghana Museums and Monuments Board for the innovative exhibition, saying they are on the right path".

I came with a land issue, but when I came, I realised that everything was well arranged; what I have seen shows that it is some lawyers who have been causing problems because they are not aware of some of these things," he noted.

Daasebre Darko called on lawyers to take advantage of such exhibitions to update their knowledge instead of relying on potentially false information from the citizenry.

Indeed, what I was looking for I have seen it, and I will advise my colleague chiefs to learn from such exhibitions; don't sit at home and give judgments on land issues," he said.

Volunteers

Three United States volunteers, who are in Ghana for a three-month Study Abroad and General Cultural Excursion programme, described the exhibition as a beautiful development.

The volunteers are Prof. Amy Patterson, Ashton Butler and Ashlyn Brown, all of the University of the South, Tennessee, US.

They said they were excited about how the exhibition was well organised, with clearly labelled dates of documentary proofs of what happened in the past, regarding land ownership and transfer of rights to lands, among others.

Prof. Patterson suggested to the exhibitors and the museum board to find ways to improve the initiative by showing two sides of the coin in terms of the current state of those documented lands, saying it would help to avoid controversies in land ownership.

Rationale

The Grant Holder for British Library Endangered Archives Project, Bright Botwe, noted that when you build an archive and you don't sell your products, nobody will get to know about it.

Every bit of records kept at the Deeds Registry has an important information embedded in them, so what we are supposed to do is to bring that element of importance out of the Deeds Registry; and so this exhibition is all about that, Mr Botwe explained.

We can't just say Atiwa Forest belongs to one person, so these documents show the number of chiefs involved in the Atiwa Forest acquisition.

For instance, if there is encroachment, there is a document to prove that this is the dimension or acres of land which were given out for the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital which used to be called the Accra Hospital, he said.

Lineage

Mr Botwe explained that the project was also aimed at drawing people's attention to where they could find information, including tracing their lineage.

Our doors are open to people or Africans in the Diaspora, and so far, so good.

Although we didn't start early, we have received visitors from Sierra Leone, United States, United Kingdom and Nigeria, among other countries, he indicated.

Temporary

The Executive Director of the Ghana Museums and Monuments Board, Kingsley Ofosu Ntiamoah, said management decided to allow organisations and institutions to mount such temporary exhibitions to boost domestic tourism.

I want to call on corporate Ghana to support us because when we refurbished the National Gallery, we had almost 14,000 patrons within a month, so I want to encourage you that whenever you mount an exhibition here it will be seen," Mr Ntiamoah said.
Adonko headlines La Abese Adonten Homowo Festival

Beatrice Laryea Aug - 28 - 2023 , 16:03

As part of its Corporate Social Responsibility, Adonko Company Limited has supported the people of La Abese Adonten in the Greater Accra Region with cash and drinks for the 2023 Homowo Festival celebrations.

At a colourful durbar, attended by thousands of people from far and near on Wednesday, August 23rd, the La Adonten Mantse, His Royal Divisional Highness, Nii Kwade Okropong I, popularly known as Nii Abese, received the donation on behalf of his people.

Presentation

Event Management Consultant par excellence, Lady Patience Yaakai Adjei, who represented Adonko Company Limited presented an undisclosed amount of money to Nii Kwade Okropong I at the grand durbar held to commemorate the festival.

In addition to the cash support were some beverages from their recently launched Adonko Soft Drinks such as Angel Cola, Angel Orange, Angele Peach, Angle Apple and Angel Cocktail.

Speaking at the event, Lady Patience said the Chairman of the Angel Group of Companies, Dr. Kwaku Oteng, extended his greetings to Nii Kwade Okropong I and the people of the town and wished them a happy Homowo celebration.

Lady Patience Adjei presenting the envelope from Adonko to Nii Abese

For his part, Nii Kwade Okropong I expressed appreciation to Dr, Kwaku Oteng and the Adonko Company Limited for the kind gesture.

We really appreciate your support for this memorable Homowo Festival. We thank Adonko so much, the La Adonten Mantse said.

Resurgence

Delivering the keynote address at the durbar on the theme The Re-Emergence of Abese Adonten: Our History, Our Heritage, Chairman of the Homowo Planning Committee, Mr John Mensah Anang, indicated that the journey of re-emergence symbolizes a resurgence, not only to their war band's leadership, but also the revival of their traditions, values, and the unbreakable bond that unites the people as a community.

He said the history of La Abese Adonten was a tapestry woven from the threads of courage, resilience, and unity, adding that La Abese Adonten had always stood as the head of their war band, a guiding force in times of conflict as well as a symbol of unyielding strength.

"Our heritage is a treasure trove of wisdom, a repository of customs passed down through generations. The customs, rituals, and practices that define us are not relics of the past, but living embodiments of our identity, Mr. Anang said.

He further indicated that as they celebrated the resurgence of La Abese Adonten, they were also celebrating the rebirth of their cultural inheritance, a vibrant thread that connected the people to those who came before them and paved the way for those who will follow.

It is our duty to carry this tapestry forward, to honour the sacrifices of our forebears, and to impart the lessons of our journey to the generations yet to come, Mr. Anang charged the people.

As we stand united in Abese, let us embrace this re-emergence with open hearts and minds. Let us rededicate ourselves to the principles that define us - strength, unity, and the unbreakable bond that binds us as an illuminating community, he added.

The people of La Abese Adonten use the annual Homowo festival to unite themselves and to display their rich culture, history, and heritage.
Best Farmer advises youth to embrace agribusiness

Haruna Yussif Wunpini Aug - 29 - 2023 , 12:00

The youth have been advised to go into agribusiness since it was not only an avenue for ensuring food security, but also for generating income.

The 2022 National Best Farmer, Oheneba Yaw Sarpong Siriboe I, who gave the advice, therefore, said school leavers who could not secure jobs could venture into agribusiness to better their lot.

He was addressing students of the Koforidua Technical University (KTU) in Koforidua, the Eastern regional capital, last Friday.

Rethink initiative

As part of efforts to encourage the youth to embrace agriculture, Oheneba Siriboe, who is also the Akyempemhene of Juaben, has come out with an initiative dubbed "Rethink".

The best farmer would, therefore, interact with senior high school (SHS) students in the country to sell the idea to them.

The project is in partnership with Kosmos Innovation Centre, an organisation which assists the youth to create opportunities for themselves in farming and other business ventures to enable them to generate income.

Oheneba Siriboe said that the initiative would also build the capacity of the youth who were already into agriculture to increase yield and reduce post-harvest losses while encouraging those who were in other professions to also go into farming.

Students of the Koforidua Technical University

He said agriculture was not meant for only students with a background in the subject, but for all citizens who could benefit from the value chain in the sector.

For instance, the best farmer mentioned seed production as an area they could take advantage of to generate and sell seeds to farmers.

Oheneba Siriboe also announced that he would set up a school to serve as a demonstration farm to train the youth in agricultural practices.

He gave an assurance that the Rethink initiative would not be abandoned after his tenure as the National Best Farmer.

The Executive Director of Kosmos Innovation Centre, Benjamin Gyan-Kesse, who spoke on the topic "Champion of change", also said that the future of the country depended largely on the youth whom he urged to go into agriculture because it was the main driver of the economy.

"We want to change the mindset of students to embrace agriculture as a business to erode the perception that the sector was only meant for the aged," he said.

Focus

The Director of Business Support of the National Entrepreneurship and Innovation Programme (NEIP), Franklin Owusu-Karikari, said the focus of the programme was to draw the attention of young people to the opportunities that existed in agriculture.

He mentioned marketing and branding as some of the areas they could specialise in.

Mr Owusu-Karikari further said that the objective of the programme was to open up opportunities for young people to enable them to decide on which key sector in the value chain to invest in.
Chief of Staff among high-profile personalities to grace Chartered Institute of Realtors launch

GraphicOnline Aug - 29 - 2023 , 06:42

The Chief of Staff at the Presidency, Akosua Frema Osei-Opare, is set to grace the launch of the Chartered Institute of Realtors (CIR) in Ghana.

The highly anticipated event is scheduled to take place on Wednesday, August 30, at 10 a.m. at the Africa Trade House in Accra, located opposite Cedi House, Ridge.

Distinguished guests expected to join the grand launch include Mr. Francis Asenso-Boakye, Minister of Works and Housing; Dr Yaw Osei Adutwum, Minister of Education; Mr. Firas Jaber, Chartered Institute of Realtors; and Mr. George Mireku Duker, Deputy Minister of Lands and Natural Resources.

This exclusive event is strictly by official invitation and will gather dignitaries from the highest echelons of government, members of the Diplomatic Corps, prominent state figures, and key stakeholders in the real estate industry. Attendees will encompass real estate developers, both local and international, suppliers, construction firms, investors, and major banks operating within the real estate sector.

The establishment of the Chartered Institute of Realtors aims to provide opportunities for real estate industry practitioners to enhance their knowledge, skills, standards, and experiences to meet global benchmarks. The real estate sector in Africa is experiencing rapid growth due to factors such as urbanization, population expansion, and increased foreign investments.

Across the globe, particularly in economically advanced nations, real estate has been a catalyst for development, generating employment for a diverse range of individuals with various skill sets and backgrounds. Destinations like Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Barcelona, and New York have gained international renown for their architectural achievements, attracting visitors from all over the world.

Africa is also witnessing substantial growth in its real estate sector. Governments are increasingly involved in providing housing for citizens, particularly in the low-income demographic, to address the basic need for shelter.

Considering the industry's rapid global expansion, it has become imperative for both aspiring and established players to acquire the necessary tools to enhance their performance within the sector. The launch of the Chartered Institute of Realtors (CIR) seeks to fulfil this need. The institute envisions a series of seminars and workshops with accomplished speakers, educators, and industry professionals from esteemed institutions worldwide, bringing their expertise to the table.

In the future, the institute plans to establish itself as a professional body that offers educational and training courses to its members, aligning with its mission to elevate the standards and practices within the real estate industry on a global scale.
CIHRM Ghana holds conferral for 68 chartered HR professionals

Daily Graphic Aug - 29 - 2023 , 12:25

The Chartered Institute of Human Resource Management Ghana, has held a conferral ceremony for 68 chartered HR practitioners in Accra last Friday with a call on members to be standard bearers of the institute and good ambassadors at all time.

The President of the institute Dr Edward Kwapong,who made the call urged them to be mindful of the fact that the institute would be watching them in their workplaces.

He said HR played a very important role in every organisation, so he expected that they make an important contribution so that they would be drawn to be part of the strategic decision making body at their workplaces.

We pledge to provide you any support you may require in terms of competencies and advice.

We will also share research findings with you, encourage you to undertake our CPD programmes.

On your part, you will never do anything to disgrace the institute.

You will never be hauled before a disciplinary committee nor the ethics committee, he said.

Institute

In his welcome address, the CEO of the institute, Dr Ebenezer Agbettor said, the conferral ceremony was very significant as the institute continued to witness an increase in the number of Chartered members.

He said with conferrals of 68 members, the chartered number went up from 255 members last year to 323 this year, an increase of 27 per cent.

He told the practitioners that since they had satisfied all the requirements as enshrined in section 16 (5) of the Chartered Institute of Human Resource Management, Ghana ACT 2020 (ACT 1020), they deserved the new status: Chartered Human Resource Management Practitioner.

The Head, Human Resource, GCB Bank Plc, Nana Kwabena Yeboah, urged members to be strategic partners of their establishments by reflecting, strategising to become meaningful to the business.

Speaking on the theme: Making HR Certification Count in the World of Work, Nana Yeboah said, HR professionals must give of their best at their work places in the period that they spent with the establishment.

Know where and when you want to move on to, where you can add value if your present place doesnt value your role.

He further urged them to build a rich network of quality professionals to tap into their expertisestressing that you may be aware of all the HR concepts, but knowing how to implement these concepts in a practical situation, together with a keen sense of commercial and business awareness will make you a better HR Professional.

The Chairman of the Professional Certification Board of CIHRM Ghana, Sayuti Saka explained that since the inception of the programme in September, 2002, the Professional Certification Programme of the Institute had trained HR practitioners as Associate members, following their completion of the level-3 of the fourlevel programme.

Some of these Associate members have moved on to pursue the fourth level which requires that the Candidate has a minimum of three years experience in Human Resource Management and submit a project work to the institute he said.
Controller freezes CETAG members salaries

Emmanuel Bonney Aug - 29 - 2023 , 12:00

The Controller and Accountant Generals Department (CAGD) has frozen the August salaries of members of the Colleges of Education Teachers Association of Ghana (CETAG) following their ongoing strike.

The action was an implementation of an earlier directive by the Ministry of Education to CAGD to freeze the salaries of the striking teachers for the month of August.

The President of CETAG, Prince Obeng-Himah, who confirmed the story to the Daily Graphic yesterday, said members of the association faced the reality when they visited their respective banks to withdraw their August salaries.

Yes, there is evidence that the non-validation has taken effect.

When people went to the bank, they were not paid for the month of August, he stated.

Mr Obeng-Himah, however, described the action as unlawful, especially where it deprived members of their economic rights as workers in the country.

Due process

The National Labour Commission (NLC), he said, had not pronounced the industrial action of CETAG as illegal because we followed due process and so it is not in the place of the Ministry of Education to arrogate to itself the powers of the NLC to make pronouncements or determination on the legitimacy or otherwise of strikes.

The inaction of the Ministry of Education should not be tolerated in our labour system because it has no legs to stand on, he insisted.

Mr Obeng-Himah maintained that the strike embarked upon by members of CETAG was legitimate.

He said the matter would be dealt with step by step and that CETAG would go to the NLC tomorrow to listen to what the commission would say on the stalemate.

If the NLCs ruling is not satisfactory, we are open to several options, including going to the Appeals Court or Supreme Court.

So, we are determined to follow through to ensure that justice is served tutors of the colleges of education, he emphasised.

Mr Obeng-Himah said the association had reported the issue in writing to the NLC and therefore expected the commission to address it.

Apart from the arrears and conditions of service, he said, the association also expected the NLCs directive to the government some months ago to be complied with.

We have the legal right and economic right and that the Ministry of Education needs the teachers and the teachers also need the ministry and so there should not be a situation like somebody is showing someone where power lies.

We want to maintain that the inaction of the Ministry of Education is completely lawless and unacceptable and the earlier if rescinds its decision and pay the withheld salaries of the tutors, the better for all of us, he said.

Members of CETAG embarked on an industrial strike from August 1, 2023, to impress upon the government to adhere to their negotiated conditions of service.

But the Ministry of Education last week directed CAGD not to process the August salaries and allowances of members of CETAG, who are currently on strike.

A letter dated August 21, 2023, and signed by the Director of Administration of the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC), Saaka Sayiti, to the CAGD said: "Any arrears before August 2023 should be validated and paid".

We write at the instance of the Minister of Education, requesting you not to pay monthly salary and allowances for the month of August 2023 to the teaching staff of all the 46 colleges of education.

However, a statement dated July 10, 2023, and jointly signed by the President of CETAG, Prince Obeng-Himah, and the acting Secretary, Thomas Amponsah, said the industrial action followed the non-compliance of the government to implement the National Labour Commissions (NLC) Arbitral Award Orders and the negotiated conditions of service since May 2, 2023.

The leadership of CETAG wishes to serve notice of our intention to withdraw our services across the 46 public colleges of education effective Tuesday, August 1, 2023, if by Monday, July 31, 2023, the government has not implemented our negotiated allowances together with the one-off payment of one months basic salary based on CETAGs salary grade as compensation for additional duty performed in 2022 payable to tutors per NLCs Arbitral Award Order given on May 2, 2023, it said.

The decision of the association, it said, had been necessitated by the fact that from August 2021, the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission (FWSC), representing our employer, deliberately prolonged its negotiations for new conditions of service for more than a year till the NLC intervened with a compulsory arbitration following CETAGs strike in January 2023.

At the end of the compulsory arbitration, the statement said the NLC issued its Arbitral Award Orders on May 2, 2023, granting CETAG members a new condition of service with effect from January 1, 2023.

Following the NLCs Compulsory Arbitral Award, the parties proceeded to sign off the negotiation agreement, which has been communicated to the Ministry of Finance (MoF) by FWSC since May 26, 2023, for approval and implementation.

Surprisingly, the MoF has refused to act on the FWSCs letter, together with the NLCs Arbitral Orders, in spite of letters we have written to the MoF requesting the immediate implementation of the negotiated agreement. Practically, CETAG members cannot continue to survive on expired 2020 CoS in this biting economy of Ghana, it said.

It cautioned that at the beginning of the 2023/2024 academic year, its members would no longer continue with what it called the killer all-year-round academic calendar being implemented in the public colleges of education even if members were given all the money in the world as compensation.

It said the practice was softly killing teachers and that leadership is, therefore, calling on stakeholders to adopt the in-out-out-in system to let all cohorts of students remain in school and complete the academic year together to enable tutors to take their inter-semester break.

After all, no law says all tertiary students should be accommodated on campus, he added.
Daniel Safo-Adu retires after 37 years of service

Juliet Akyaa Safo Aug - 29 - 2023 , 06:50

After 37 years of dedicated service to the Graphic Communications Group Limited (GCGL), the Senior Transport Officer of the company, Daniel Safo-Adu, has retired.

At a send-off party organised in his honour in Accra, Friday August 25, Mr Safo-Adu, affectionately called Apostle, who was full of smiles, thanked his colleagues and management for the wonderful working experience since joining the company in 1986.

The ceremony was interspersed with the singing of praise songs and dancing, to thank God for his protection, guidance, and for seeing Mr Safo-Adu through his journey with the company.

Flanked by family, friends, some managers of the GCGL, and members of the transport unit, Mr Safo-Adu was presented with a refrigerator and a citation.

Work life

Mr Safo-Adu joined the GCGL as a messenger on March 18, 1986.

On August 23, 1986, he was transferred to the Transport Department as a Transport Clerk.

Owing to his hard work, dedication and experience, he was appointed as a driver on August 23, 1990.

He was then promoted to a Senior Driver on January 1, 1993 and on January 1, 1997, he rose to the position of an Assistant Chief Driver.

Again, due to his exceptionally good driving skills, he was commended by the company in 1998.

In January 2000, he was promoted to the position of Chief Driver and on April 4, 2004, he was promoted again to the position of Principal Driver.

After the job evaluation of Junior and Senior Staff in 2010, Mr Safo-Adu became a transport officer and won the Accident Free Award in 2014 for his good driving skills, devoid of accidents.

On February 3, 2022, he was nominated to act as Transport Co-ordinator, when the substantive holder of the post proceeded on terminal leave.

He was also assigned to manage night operations of Graphic Vehicles from September 13, 2022.

Until his retirement, he held the position of Senior Transport Officer, a position he had held since January 2016 after he was promoted for performing exceptionally.

Gratitude

Mr Safo-Adu, surrounded by his family, thanked God for how far he had brought him.

He thanked the staff for an amazing work relationship with them and asked for Gods blessings upon their lives

Im, together with my family, grateful for the honour done me.

It is by Gods grace that we are witnessing this currently. 

Ebenezer ,this is how far the Lord has brought me.

I have not left you, we are a family, he said.

Mr Safo-Adu urged staff of the company, particularly drivers, to work hard to promote the growth of the company.

Encouragement

The Editor, Graphic, Theophilus Yartey, Editor Graphic Digital; Enoch Darfah-Frimpong, and General Services Manager; David Ayisala, took turns to share their experiences while working with Mr Safo-Adu.

They thanked him for his dedicated service to the company and wished him well on his retirement.

Mr Yartey said Mr Safo-Adu had distinguished himself since others had not been able to achieve the feat he had attained.

He urged staff members of the company to learn from Mr Safo-Adus dedicated service, a record that was unblemished.

Mr Ayisala, for his part, spoke about the good relationship Mr Safo-Adu had with everyone.

When acting as transport coordinator, he was so dedicated to the work that he quickly stepped in when there was emergency work to be done, he said.

Mr Darfah-Frimpong reiterated Mr Safo-Adus dedication and commitment to work and said there was a time where he managed to deliver newspapers on time from Accra to Kumasi despite having issues with the companys truck on his way to Kumasi.

Some workers also shared their fond memories of Mr Safo-Adu and thanked him for mentoring them to develop their skills.

Mr Safo-Adus uncle, Wofa Yaw-Ntem, on behalf of the family, thanked the company for their support to him.
Energy Awards personalities engage students in life choices

Daily Graphic Aug - 29 - 2023 , 12:12

The 2022 winners of the Ghana Energy Awards personalities of the year have urged students to own and take responsibility for their lives, and also be intentional about their actions and choices.

The winners, Emmanuel Antwi-Darkwa and Harriette Amissah-Arthur, said for students to take responsibility for their lives, it was important for them to use their time judiciously and effectively utilise all resources at their disposal to achieve their set targets.

The energy sector giants gave the advice when they engaged some students of the Aburi Senior High School for the 2023 Energy Personalities Outreach Programme.

The outreach was on the theme: Impacting the Next Generation Leaders Today.

Organised by the Energy Media Group (EMG), the outreach was a platform for the apex winners of the Awards to interact with students of second-cycle institutions about the energy sector and its prospects as well as helping the youth to cultivate habits and develop attitudes required for a successful future.

The Chief Executive Officer of the EMG, Henry Teinor, in a welcome address, noted that the outreach programme was designed to contribute to Ghanas Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education efforts using the approach of mentorship to motivate the youth to develop interests and actively participating in the countrys energy sector.

The outreach programme, he said, was the fifth in the series and an initiative of the Ghana Energy Awards which in previous years featured various schools, including the Achimota School, West Africa Senior High School, Nungua Senior High School and the St. Marys Senior High School in Accra.



Manage

The Executive Partner of Arthur Energy Advisors, Harriette Amissah-Arthur, advised the students to own their lives, manage their resources and relationships well and define their idea of success.

Commitment, consistency, sustaining positive actions through the efficient and effective use of time and developing individual capacities will lead you to excel, she said.

She subsequently called for more of such programmes to extend the reach of youth engagements in the country, which would further spread and increase the impact of national empowerment efforts.

The Chief Executive of the Volta River Authority (VRA), Emmanuel Antwi-Darkwa, encouraged the students to be ambitious and set goals for themselves, and to not be afraid to fail but rather persevere with all humility to achieve what they set out to do while keeping God at the fore of their lives.

The three-time award winner underscored the need to bridge the existing gap in female participation, especially in the energy sector.

He said avenues, such as the Energy Personalities Outreach Programme, created the needed platform to awaken consciousness of unique capabilities for the sector and stimulate an interest to aspire.
First lady launches campaign on gender equality

Rebecca Quaicoe Duho Aug - 29 - 2023 , 06:08

The First Lady, Rebecca Akufo-Addo, has launched the Ghana version of a campaign to aggressively close the gender gap in Africa.

Dubbed the Unifying Campaign, it forms part of strategic measures to fight for gender equality to enable girls and women to contribute their quota to the development of the country.

On the theme: #WeAreEqual, the campaign brings together African First Ladies, partners and allies to advance gender equity and close the gender gap across the continent.

Led by the Organisation of African First Ladies for Development (OAFLAD), the First Ladies will work together to dismantle the barriers that hold women and girls back in health, education, womens economic empowerment and gender-based violence.

The campaign also drives home the message: We are equal  and always have been.

Our health care, education, economic opportunities and freedom from violence should be equal too.

In June this year, OAFLAD launched the one-year campaign during its 20th anniversary celebration on the theme: We are equal.

Working together, our society can be too, to accelerate gender equality on the continent through advocacy by member states.

In attendance were the Director-General of the Ghana Broadcasting Corporation, Prof. Amin Alhassan; the Director-General of the Ghana AIDS Commission (GAC), Dr Kyeremeh Atuahene; representatives from the National Health Insurance Scheme and the Ghana Health Service, including the Chief Executive Officer of Peace and Love Hospitals, Dr Beatrice Wiafe Addai, among others.

Mrs Akufo-Addo, who launched the campaign in Accra yesterday, called for action to enable women and girls to have equal opportunities.

She said by working together to dismantle the barriers that held women and girls back we can build a future that enables all Africans to thrive.

The First Lady also urged policymakers to accelerate the implementation of existing policies within ministries and agencies to ensure gender formed part of their strategies and programmes.

The fight for gender equality is an age-old one.

Sadly, it is a fight that has not been won even though the global gender gap has been narrowing.

We need a lot more urgency and action to make very significant impact.

When women and girls, representing about half of our society, have equal access to health, education and skills and are free from gender-based violence, they can contribute their quota to the development of our nation, Mrs Akufo-Addo added.

She further urged influencers, particularly those on social media whose voices go far to use their platforms to promote gender equity.

Our expectation is that this campaign will achieve intensified awareness, effective stakeholder engagement, stronger policy commitments and increased media attention to close the gender gap, Mrs Akufo-Addo added.

Appreciation

The Minister of Gender, Children and Social Protection, Lariba Zuweira Abudu, expressed appreciation to the First Lady for her tremendous efforts at empowering women and children.

She said her ministry had also taken advantage of the free education policy of the government to encourage more girls to further their education.

A Deputy Minister of Health, Tina Gifty Naa Mensah, said that the time had come for strong advocacy on gender equity by involving more qualified women in decision-making positions.

The Minister of Education, Dr Yaw Osei Adutwum, also commended the First Lady for her good works and pledged his ministrys support for the campaign.

The Presidential Advisor on Gender and Development, Angela Asante, said the unifying campaign was in line with the Presidents vision of giving women and girls equal opportunities to thrive.

The Deputy Country Representative of United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), Dr Emmily Naphambo, gave an assurance that the fund would support the successful implementation of the initiative.
Four fishmongers arrested for drying 'Keta school boys' on public pavements near Korle Lagoon

GraphicOnline Aug - 29 - 2023 , 16:54

The Public Health Officers of the Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) have arrested four women for persistently drying fresh herrings, popularly called 'Keta school boys', on the public pavement close to the Korle Lagoon.

The four: Cecilia Klottey, Regina Okinkoi, Okailey Norrah Ayi and Mercy Tetteh were apprehended and their wares were confiscated last Friday after several cautions by the Metropolitan Environmental Health Officers (MEHOs) about the potential hygiene and safety issues posed by drying fish in such a public space close to the Korle Lagoon.

The practice according to the AMA exposes the fish to particles of smoke from vehicle exhaust, worn-out ties, and dust as well as causes a strong stench permeating the area, causing discomfort to pedestrians and nearby schools which is dangerous to public health and safety.

The Head of Public Affairs, Gilbert Nii Ankrah who disclosed this to the media said Public Health Officers of the Assembly had initially attempted to address the issue through a series of verbal and written warnings, outlining the health implications but the cautions were not adhered to leading to the decision to arrest and take legal action.

He emphasised that the exhaust emissions from the vehicles release a mixture of pollutants, including carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, and fine particulate matter, which can settle on surfaces such as the fish being dried, adding that particles from worn-out tires, a common source of microplastics, could also contribute to contamination which compromises the safety and quality of the dried fish, potentially affecting the health of those who consume them.

"According to environmental scientists, inhaling or ingesting these contaminants can pose health risks, especially for vulnerable populations such as children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions," he said.

He assured that the Assembly would strike a balance between the cultural heritage and contemporary regulations stressing that efforts would be made to work with the fishmongers and other traditional businesses to find suitable solutions that respect both their practices and the city's standards.

"Efforts are being made to educate traditional businesses about the potential risks associated with drying food in open, uncontrolled spaces and to encourage them to adopt safer alternatives...We intend to strike a balance between the cultural heritage and contemporary regulations, " he said.

He expressed concerns over the broader environmental impact associated with such practices in an increasingly urbanized setting and urged citizens to report any such activities taking place in their neighbourhoods to ensure swift and effective action.

He reiterated the AMA's commitment to maintaining a clean, safe, and harmonious urban environment for all residents and visitors.

Jessica Tetteh, a resident who witnessed the arrest, shared her concern about the incident. "I'm glad the authorities are cracking down on this illegal activity. Drying fish in public areas is not only unhygienic, but it also creates an unpleasant and unsightly environment for everyone."

The four fishmongers are currently awaiting their day in court, where they will face charges related to public health and safety violations.
Ghana leads in child online protection efforts  UNICEF

Daily Graphic Aug - 29 - 2023 , 06:55

Ghana has been described as a shining example to Africa, and the rest of the world, in light of its efforts towards spearheading child online protection activities.

The Global Chief Child Protection Specialist at the United Nations Childrens Emergency Fund (UNICEF) Headquarters in New York, Afrooz Kaviani Johnson, lauded Ghana for putting in place a legislative framework to protect the rights of Ghanaian children online.

I am happy Ghana has been able to put the fundamental structures in place for public education, social welfare, and awareness creation on child online protection.

We really do look to Ghana as a case study example, she said.

This came to light when she led a team from UNICEF Ghana to pay a courtesy call on the Management of the Cyber Security Authority (CSA) in Accra.

As part of her visit to Ghana, Afrooz Kaviani Johnson, participated in a stakeholders consultative meeting on the development of a Legislative Instrument (L.I.) on the Cybersecurity Act, 2020 (Act 1038), with a focus on Child Online Protection.

Ghana, since 2016, has been collaborating with UNICEF and other relevant stakeholders to tackle the issue of Online Child Sexual Exploitation and Abuse (OCSEA) and has facilitated the integration of targeted interventions on OCSEA into the National Child Protection systems.

UNICEF

The UNICEF team during its visit to the CSA, sought to further engage on the development of the L I with input from civil society organisations and other relevant state institutions.

Ms Johnson commended the sector Minister, Ursula Owusu-Ekuful and the Director-General of the CSA, Dr Albert Antwi-Boasiako, for their transformational leadership and contribution towards safeguarding the lives of innocent children against indecent and harmful online contents.

She spoke fondly of Dr Antwi-Boasiako, recalling their shared international platforms at conferences to discuss the pressing issues surrounding child online protection and other cybersecurity-related issues.

The Global Child Protection Specialist stated that children, who were vulnerable, formed half of the population of many African countries; for that reason, they must be protected against consuming unwholesome online contents.

In his remarks, Dr Antwi-Boasiako acknowledged and applauded the support of UNICEF towards Ghanas cybersecurity journey.

He noted that the steady progress Ghana had chalked up in cybersecurity readiness; from a score of 32.60 per cent in 2017 to 86.6 per cent as of 2020 on the ITUs Global Cybersecurity Index, a feat he described as a major leap, was as a result of the collaboration and support by UNICEF.

Collaboration

The Director-General suggested that the collaboration between the CSA and UNICEF should be scaled up and institutionalised, around a number of areas, comprising awareness creation, research into child online protection issues, support for criminal justice response to child online safety issues including prosecution of offenders and victims support services, among others.

Dr Antwi-Boasiako commended UNICEF for its humanitarian endeavours to protect the lives of children as he described the staff at UNICEF Ghana, who had been collaborating with the CSA for the past six years.

Ms Johnson was accompanied by Child Protection Specialist, Miho Yoshikawa; Child Protection Specialist, Hilda Mensah; Child Protection Officer, Joyce Odame; and Digital Communication Officer-UNICEF, Ghana Country Office, Benjamin Kobina Amoah Dadson.
Institution to bridge gap between theory, practice launched

Doreen Andoh Aug - 29 - 2023 , 11:56

An institute, aimed at bridging the gap between theory and practice, has been launched in Accra.

Known as Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and Environment Social Governance (ESG) Training Institute, it will offer valuable insight into the integration and alignment of business, environment and social values.

It would also prioritise sustainability, accountability and transparency in the delivery of environmental, ethical, philanthropic and economically responsible programmes, while improving the capacity of businesses to be socially accountable to drive initiatives that would contribute to public good.

The institute which was launched in Accra last Wednesday, coincided with the 10th anniversary of the mother institute.

In attendance were policymakers, the UN Resident Coordinator, Dr Charles Abani, industry players in the oil, gas and mining sectors, among others.

Significance

The Special Advisor to the President on Sustainable Development Goals, Dr Eugene Owusu, said the launch marked an important chapter in the SDGs and sustainability journey.

Recent global developments, notably COVID-19 and the Ukraine-Russia conflict, have posed significant challenges to achieving SDGs around the world, he said.

Dr Owusu, however, said that achieving SDGs remained even more relevant than before, adding that it provided a good blueprint for addressing underlying systematic flaws and protection against future shocks.

Importantly, SDGs constitute a useful framework for achieving the transformation we so passionately desire to put our country and the world on a truly inclusive, resilient and sustainable pathway, he added.

The special advisor, who is also the Sherpa to the President on Ocean Action, said since the national SDGs Advisory unit met with Prof. Wayne Dunn in 2017, they had partnered on a number of initiatives, including a royal dialogue on SDGs hosted by Otumfuo Osei Tutu at the Manhyia Palace in Kumasi, and a blue economy summit.

Importantly, Dunns insights, knowledge and expertise have helped inspire some of the work that our unit has championed on businesses and SDGs, particularly, in emphasising the intrinsic value of SDGs to businesses, he added.

Collaboration

For his part, Prof. Dunn further urged companies to collaborate and tell the success stories of their CSR activities to help accelerate national sustainable development goals.

He said the institute was focused on offering practical solutions in the implementation of CSR by businesses, including creating a synergy between the corporate world and the general public.

About institute

Prof. Dunn said that the institute, which was established in 2013, had consistently prioritised excellence, innovation and customer satisfaction, and had also experienced significant growth in partnership with McGill University.

The 10th anniversary, along with the launch of the Ghana CSR-ESG institute, is therefore a significant milestone that signifies a remarkable journey of expansion and achievement.

The institute is fanatical about avoiding ivory tower academic rhetorics and is focussed on producing programmes, lectures and advisory work that would add meaningful value and approach to assignments and programmes, he said.
Leaked tape on IGPs removal: Tape is authentic, contains my voice - Bugri Naabu reveals

Nana Konadu Agyeman Aug - 29 - 2023 , 12:00

The former Northern Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Daniel Bugri Naabu, has authenticated the leaked tape containing a discussion on plans to remove the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Dr George Akuffo Dampare, from office.

He said he deliberately recorded the conversation so he could submit it to the President after he became alarmed by issues concerning the loyalty of the IGP to the government.

He made the revelation when he appeared before the seven-member committee of Parliament tasked to ascertain the veracity or otherwise of the tape.

The Chairman of the committee, Samuel Atta Akyea, asked Mr Naabu if he was connected with the tape, and he responded, yes, my voice is there.

The committee, which is also charged to investigate a conspiracy to remove the IGP, had played the entire tape for Mr Naabu, who is also the Paramount Chief of Namong Traditional Area in the North East Region and a council member of the NPP, and his counsel, Raymond Donyo, to either authenticate or deny the voices captured on the tape.

Senior police officers

The Chairman of the committee asked Mr Naabu to also identify the other persons he engaged in the conversation which supposedly took place in his office located directly opposite the Osu Police Station in Accra.

Mr Naabu named the people as Commander Asare and Commissioner of Police (COP) Mensah, two senior police officers who were based at the Police Headquarters.

He said COP Mensah was currently on leave prior to retirement from the Ghana Police Service.

Asked if he had met the two officers prior to the conversation, Mr Naabu said he did not know them.

He, however, told the committee that prior to the Assin North by-election on June 27, 2023, one of his sons told him that one police officer wanted to meet him (Mr Naabu) at his office for reasons he did not know.

He said later on, Commander Asare went to Mr Naabus house to introduce himself as a police commander, and wanted him (Mr Naabu) to talk to the President over concerns about the IGP.

Commander Asare said the IGP is not with the government or the NPP, and if we want to use the IGP for 2024 elections, we cannot break the eight because this IGP will let us lose the election because he is an NDC (sympathiser).

This is because the IGP was promoted so many times during the NDC era, still goes for NDC meetings and former President John Mahama has promised to maintain him if he (Mahama) wins the 2024 elections, he said.

IGPs removal?

He said Commander Asare told him that although they had sent many people to the President to change the IGP, the President was not interested in doing so.

Consequently, he said, Commander Asare wanted he (Mr Naabu) to use his influence to convince the President about the IGP, who had been regarded as a former aide-de-camp to former President John Evans Atta Mills.

Mr Naabu told the committee that Commander Asare informed him that if the NPP allowed the IGP, who had deployed commissioners of police who were affiliated with the NDC to Assin North to go and supervise security for the by-election, the NPP would lose the election.

Based on the fear Commander Asare expressed to him, Mr Naabu said he became so scared of NPP losing the by-election with the presence of the IGP in Assin North.

He, however, assured Commander Asare that he would go and put the concerns before the President, and rescheduled the meeting between them.

At the next meeting, he said, Commander Asare told him that he had another senior police officer who was more qualified and a true member of the NPP who could take over from the IGP, to meet him (Mr Naabu).

Later on, he said, Commander Asare introduced COP Mensah, whom he had known before, to him.

Motive for recording conversation

Mr Naabu said being scared of the government and NPP having an IGP who could hold meetings with the flag bearer of the NDC, he rescheduled to meet the two police officers another time while he consulted other persons on how best he could pass on the information to the President.

He said it was then that COP Mensah told him that he could also introduce to him another senior police  known to him only as J.B.  who could confirm all the negative information about the IGP.

In a bid to gather more information, Mr Naabu said he called J.B. and arranged to go with him to the Jubilee House at 3 p.m. on a Sunday.

Unfortunately, he said, J.B. failed to meet him at Afrikiko Restaurant in Accra on grounds that he had travelled for a programme in the Eastern Region.

I was so disappointed and so I decided that I need to get the information properly, and the proper way was to look for a tape recorder to tape all that we have been discussing so that when I send it to the President or anybody, they cannot deny it or that somebody will think that I am concocting this.

We, chiefs, do not like lies because if I tell a lie, I will die.

So, the truth of this is that the tape is correct, he said.

Protecting NPP

He said after recording the two men, he confidentially handed over the tape to only the President.

Quizzed on why he decided to record a private conversation with the police officers, he said he was worried about fears the two police officers expressed, particularly with regard to the NPP potentially losing the Assin North by-election.

A member of the committee, Ophelia Mensah, asked Mr Naabu if he did the recording himself but he answered in the negative.

He told the committee that he requested someone who knew how to record to come over to his house and record the conversation for him.

He said the two gadgets he used for the recording were purchased at one of the shopping malls.

He explained that his main interest in recording the conversation was to protect the NPP party.

I didnt leak tape

Questioned if he leaked the tape, Mr Naabu said he never gave out the tape to anyone except the President.

He, therefore, expressed surprise to hear the content of the tape which had been leaked to the press, saying I did not leak out the tape.

Curious to know who might be behind the leak, he said, he called Commander Asare several times but he refused to answer his calls.

He, however, said Commander Asare later sent a text message through my son that he would deal with me.
Passage of Occupational Health and Safety Bill necessary  Prof. Akosa

Timothy Ngnenbe Aug - 29 - 2023 , 06:14

A former Director-General of the Ghana Health Service (GHS), Prof. Agyeman Badu Akosa, has urged stakeholders to work to ensure the passage of the Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Bill to protect the safety of people at workplaces.

He said the passage of the bill would also ensure that fragmented policies and framework on health and safety across the board were put together to achieve a common purpose.

"We know that there has been a draft on it for a very long time which the Trades Union Congress has been pushing but there are turf wars agencies that have fragmented health and safety policies are pushing in the wrong direction and not supporting the passage of a harmonised policy.

"This is not good for the country.

We should prioritise the safety of the people, that is the most important thing," Prof. Akosa said, adding that the time had come for stakeholders to shelve their parochial interests and work for a common OHS law.

Event

The pathologist was speaking at a three-day workshop on occupational health and safety organised by the Ensign Global College, a private institution, in Accra yesterday.

Participants were drawn from state institutions, including security agencies, faith-based organisations and insurance companies, among others.

They discussed topics such as the importance of health and safety at the workplace, leadership essentials in environmental and occupational health and safety, as well as the global state of health and safety and what it meant for the country.

Harmonisation

Currently, there are many industry-specific health and safety policies in the country. Some of these policies are Factories, Offices and Shops Act (1970), Act 328; Mining Regulations, 1970 (L.I 665); Mining and Mining Act, 2006 (Act 703)  Regulations (2012); Workmans Compensation Law, 1987 (PNDC L187; Radiation Protection Instrument, 1993 (L.I 1559).

Prof. Akosa expressed concern about the fragmentation of the policy, saying it was inimical to the safety of workers as there was no coordination and strict oversight of the policy.

"Regulation should be done by an independent body because the agency that is operational cannot regulate itself well, he said.

The former Director-General further underscored the need for organisations to strengthen their health and safety departments and also provide risk assessment reports to guide their operations.

Awareness creation

The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of MODEC Production Services Ghana JV Limited (MPSG), a service provider in offshore oil and gas industry, Theophilus N. Ahwireng, described the efforts being made to get a legislation for OHS as a step in the right direction.

He, however, said that while efforts were being made to get the law, more attention must be given to public education and awareness creation about the need for health and safety policies at workplaces.

For his part, the President of Ensign Global College, Prof. Stephen C. Alder, said given that health and safety was crucial for quality workforce, the college would work with other institutions to train more safety officers.
Women urged to seek political office

Diana Mensah Aug - 29 - 2023 , 17:47

The Chairman of Christ Apostolic Church International (CACI), Apostle Samuel Amponsah-Frimpong, has entreated women to fully participate in elections and offer themselves for service to the country.

He consequently urged men to make room for women to pursue political office.

Believe in yourselves because you are a useful asset to the nation.

Our politics cannot succeed with men alone, so we need to allow women to play an active role and participate in the local elections because politics is not only about the presidential and parliamentary elections.

It is more important than you think, he said.

Apostle Amponsah-Frimpong made the comments at the Southern Sector thanksgiving service to climax the 2023 edition of the seven-day Prophetic Convention in Accra.

The convention brought together thousands of church faithful within the southern sector of the CACI to experience the outpour of the Holy Spirit.

Prior to the convention, the church had led congregants through its newly inducted Executive Council to launch the celebration of the 100 years of the physical descent and manifestation of the Holy Spirit at Anum-Asamankese in the Eastern Region.

The church is set to replicate the 2023 Prophetic Convention in the northern sector from Monday, September 11 to Sunday, September 17, 2023, at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology on the theme: Led by the Pillar of Fire (Exodus 13:21).

Commitment

Apostle Amponsah-Frimpong said the church was poised to complete a hospital project to aid quality healthcare delivery in the country.

This, he said, was to improve the countrys infrastructural deficit across various sectors.

He, also, said the church had also acquired vast lands to support the government's Green Ghana project.

The prosperity of the country is the responsibility of all Ghanaians, he said, and added that government alone cannot solve all these challenges so I urge churches and other organisations to commit themselves to work together to ensure the success of the country.

Management

Apostle Amponsah-Frimpong advised the public to desist from activities that harmed the environment, and to rather learn to protect and care for what God had entrusted to them.

He added that good management is the key to national development.

He congratulated the governing New Patriotic Party on the smooth process of last Saturdays Super Delegates Conference, and urged Ghanaians to cooperate with the Electoral Commission to render a successful and peaceful elections in the country.

Apostle Amponsah-Frimpong also urged Ghanaians and the leadership of the country to pray for God's direction in their endeavours.
Health expert advocates mandatory breast examination

Joshua Bediako Koomson & Elizabeth Konadu-Boakye Health Aug - 29 - 2023 , 07:08

Health policy makers have been urged to put in place measures to ensure that breast examination becomes a routine check at the various health facilities.

The Programme Manager for Non-communicable Disease Control of the Ghana Health Service, Dr Efua Commeh, who made the call, said making breast examination a mandatory routine check would ensure early detection which could help save the lives of many breast cancer patients who die because of late detection.

Dr Commeh was speaking at the 4th Annual General Meeting of the Breast Society of Ghana (BSoG) in Accra recently.

The event, which was on the theme: Improving Breast Disease Outcomes; the Role of the Breast Society of Ghana, brought together health professionals from across the country to deliberate on how to improve the management and outcomes of breast diseases especially cancer.

Dr Commeh further stated that while putting in place those measures, it was also important to build the capacity of the health workers so that they could easily examine and educate patients on breast care.

"Health workers and policy makers have a role to play because if the right policies are not in place, a patient can walk into the hospital and still not get a clinical breast examination because it's not mandatory or routine or simply because the health worker is not abreast of how these things are done," she said.

The Programme Manager further called on all to refrain from discouraging patients from going through the treatment process but instead encourage them and give the necessary support that would ensure full recovery.

Rising Incidence

The President of the BSoG, Dr Hannah Ayettey Anie, said there was a rising incidence of non-communicable diseases including breast cancer worldwide, in Africa and in the country.

Breast Cancer remains the most commonly diagnosed cancer and the leading cause of mortality in women, she said.

BSoG, she said, had a unique role to play in propagating the message of breast cancer, making it a household name, providing easy access of information to the layman, demystifying the myths surrounding breast cancer and most importantly downplaying all forms of stigmatisation.

Again Dr Anie said it was the societys aim to also establish a bond with survivors of breast cancer so they could share their experiences for the benefit of all.

Strides

The Chair of Council for BSoG, Charles Fordjour Agyeman, said breast cancer management had made strides in terms of awareness, diagnosis, surgery, counselling and advocacy.

Despite the strides, Mr Agyeman said the country still remained behind in terms of access to new technologies and innovative therapies.

It is the responsibility of our generation and bodies like BSoG to close these gaps.

This means we have to evolve BSoG to that association that will be the umbrella body to host all critical stakeholders needed in creating these solutions, he added.
CPP launches grassroots reorganisation booklet

Dickson Worlanyo Dotse Politics Aug - 29 - 2023 , 07:18

The Convention Peoples Party (CPP) has launched a booklet aimed at reorganising the partys grassroots to win the upcoming 2024 general elections.

The booklet, which is tailor-made specifically for the recruitment of polling station executives across the country, contained a numerical breakdown of constituencies, electoral areas and polling stations in a particular region as well as the number of executives at each level.

Therefore, contained in the booklet are membership forms that would allow various agents of the party to reach out to ordinary citizens and convince them to join the CPP as polling station executives.

The launch was held at the partys headquarters in Accra today (Monday, August 28, 2023).

Present were mostly executives of various constituencies in the Greater Accra Region and some national executives.

Best at organising

The Chairperson and leader of the party, Nana Akosua Frimpomaa Sarpong, who launched the booklet, said historically, the CPP was the best at organising a political party because it had the best policies and people who sought to change the country for the better.

Ms Frimpomaa, who is also a 2024 presidential hopeful, however, lamented that without the appropriate structures particularly at the grassroots level, the party would be unable to bring the change that the country needed.

She said the initiative was going to make the CPP a viable force and an alternative to the youth who were looking for a vehicle to break the duopolys hold over political power and change the status quo to better their lives.

We have used technology to decode organisation in a very simple and easy way so that our few members at the top will go to each polling station in each constituency and get us polling station executives who are crucial for our success, she stressed.

Opportunity

Ms Frimpomaa said the CPP was giving the youth an opportunity to take their destinies into their own hands by becoming the partys agents at the grassroots and voting to remove those who had made life hard for them for years.

When you give this booklet to anyone, theyll realise the energy and brains that have gone into it because the Ghanaian youth have the common sense and zeal to know what is right for them and they will be willing to come on board, she said.

She stressed that the party needed over 800,00 executives, adding that with that number, they would put in place measures that would attract more citizens and easily secure an adequate number of votes to win the 2024 general elections.

Elections 2024 is around the corner but also over a year away.

The country is going nowhere until the youth of the country take up the mantle that theyll get these corrupt individuals out because they have no clue what they are doing, the CPP Chairperson and leader said.
Create more registration centres - PWDs to EC

Diana Mensah Politics Aug - 29 - 2023 , 07:29

Person with Disability (PWD) in the country have called on the Electoral Commission (EC) to rescind its decision to use only 268 out of the 1,500 gazetted offices of the commission for the upcoming voter registration exercise.

The use of limited offices, they said, would impose unbearable cost and affect the participation of first-time registrants, as well as create unnecessary tension in the registration exercise.

The EC must make the effort to listen to the concerns of Persons with Disability to rescind its decision and create a better spread of its registration centres by undertaking the exercise in the existing 6,272 electoral areas, the group said in a statement signed by the National Coordinator of the Disability Desk of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Frederick Assor, on August 28.

The statement said the appeal followed consultations by the NDC Disability Desk with the Persons with Disability across the 16 regions.

It described the decision of the EC as ill-considered, insensitive and purported to suppress the registration of PWDs.

It indicated that the ECs arrangement was an apparent disregard of the attributes of the various types of disabilities and the unbearable long distances persons with disabilities would have travelled to access the registration centres.

It pointed out that in some communities, persons with disability would have to travel by boat, and many first-time registrants would have to go through difficulties of locating the district offices, adding that there are, for instance, sparse areas in the northern regions and the district offices are not easy to locate.

Furthermore, it mentioned that many Persons with Disabilities were already fighting to acquire their Ghana Cards and would have to travel with two guarantors over long distances to these district offices to get registered.

Reminding EC of the presence of persons with disabilities across the country, it indicated that a few or many of the persons with disabilities were residents in difficult terrain such as Nkwanta, Nzulenzu, Amedzorpe, Obomofodensua, Asesewa, Jimbale, Donkorkrom and Drobonso.

It is noteworthy that such difficult travels for a Voter Card are not one-way trips but round-trips which require registrants to find their way back home after the exercise. In the special case of the deaf, an interpreter is required for meaningful communication to take place, it said.

It is already financially burdensome for many Persons with Disabilities to singularly transport themselves, so the proposition for them to bus others for the purpose of registering is offensive, it added.

Disregard

It also stated that women with disabilities in the countrys northern, middle and coastal belts were unhappy with the distances they have to travel and were incensed about the disregard for pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers and the elderly.

It said the women expressed discontent with the long queues and frustration that would be presented to the most vulnerable, saying the ECs restriction to these difficult-to- reach 268 registration centres is questionable and supposes a clear intention to suppress the inalienable right of all eligible persons to register.

Intervention

The statement, therefore, sought the attention of civil society organisations, traditional leaders, religious bodies, advocates for disability rights and progressive forces and all political parties to reiterate their concerns against EC voter suppression.
Galamsey allegations: Odike feels vindicated by Chiefs' destoolment

GraphicOnline Politics Aug - 29 - 2023 , 05:00

Mr. Akwasi Addai, the founder of the now-defunct United Progressive Party (UPP), has expressed a feeling of vindication following the destoolment of four chiefs by Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II due to various violations of traditional norms.

In August 2022, Mr Addai popularly known as Odike, faced banishment from Kumasi by the Ashanti Traditional Council due to his statements linking certain chiefs to illegal mining activities. He alleged that they were either involved in or tolerated such activities.

Odike now interprets the recent actions taken by Otumfuo Osei Tutu as validation of his earlier claims. He remarked that these recent events substantiate his assertion that specific chiefs are contributing to environmental deterioration and water contamination through their engagement in illegal mining.

In an interview with Citi FM, Odike stated, Today, Otumfuo Osei Tutus actions buttress my initial assertion that it is the chiefs who are being used to destroy our environment through land degradation and water pollution." He reiterated that his concerns are firmly rooted in truth and his commitment to the nation's security and future.

Reflecting on his previous experiences, he noted, "Of course, I feel vindicated, and I am happy because they nearly killed me in my office in Kumasi, and it was all over, CNN captured everything. And today if I were to be in my grave it is exactly one year but the almighty God who always fought for goodness sent unseen forces to protect me."

Odike underscored his intention to return to Kumasi, where he plans to campaign for votes ahead of the 2024 general elections. Despite his party's ban by the Electoral Commission, he aims to lead the Union Government movement, which he intends to launch.

He emphasized that he is not offering any apologies and restated his stance on the role some chiefs have played or enabled in the challenges the nation faces.
Madina MP donates books to basic schools

Nana Konadu Agyeman Politics Aug - 29 - 2023 , 07:23

The National Democratic Congress Member of Parliament for Madina, Francis-Xavier Sosu, has donated 23,500 books to all the 45 public basic schools and some selected private schools in the constituency.

The high learning standard books, valued at GH1.4 million, will cover and impact the lives of over 40,000 pupils from kindergarten to class six.

They comprised 2,305 boxes of assorted books, 23,500 single books and specialised books.

Commit learners

At the handover ceremony of the materials at the Presbyterian Senior High School, Legon, last Friday, Mr Sosu said These books are of high learning standards which are also more activity based than the normal routine learning as we are used to.

I, therefore, encourage teachers to commit pupils and students to the activities.

That is how we develop their skills for the creative world and industry, he said.

Empowering minds

Mr Sosu said in a rapidly changing world, where knowledge and information had become key resources, it was crucial for stakeholders to prioritise the development and empowerment of pupils and students.

He, therefore, urged the government, educational institutions, businesses and individuals to support efforts to empower minds and enrich lives of pupils and students.

Mr Sosu said since he became the MP for Madina in the last two and half years, he had invested in education, mentorship and life-long learning opportunities.

He mentioned the Best Teacher Award, appreciation of both teaching and non-teaching staff for life-long services embarked on library projects, provision of desks and computers to some schools, scholarships to brilliant but vulnerable and needy students from basic to university levels.

He also mentioned outreaches for basic education certificate examination candidates, Water For all Project as part of the few such impactful achievements he had brought to the Madina constituency.
Honor has partnered with TIME magazine for a fashion-forward keynote at this years IFA. The presentation will explore the convergence of technology, fashion, sustainability and lifestyle and will be lead by a panel of fashion icons.

The speakers include Giles Deacon (Couture Designer at Giles Deacon Group), Bram Van Diepen (Design Director, BURBERRY Menswear) and Anne-Marie Tomchak (journalist, broadcaster and former Vogue Editor). The will be joined by Lola Ogunnaike, a Time Brand Editor.



Honor's IFA keynote will focus on the convergence of fashion and technology

Whats this all about? Well, based on a teaser for Honors IFA keynote we expect to see two new foldables. One of them might be the Honor Magic V2  the company told us that it is expediting the European launch. Other possibilities include a slim and/or lite models and even a Magic Vs 2.

There is another possibility too. Honor did mention that it is considering making a flip foldable, but it wanted it to be special.

There is a divide in the foldable world  horizontal foldables are advertised based on productivity, flip foldables are advertised based on fashion. So, its not all that strange to be inviting fashion experts to a tech launch. However, this might only be a concept device rather than a retail-ready product.

Unfortunately for us impatient types, the company has managed to keep its plans secret, so you will have to join us tomorrow and we can find out Honor's plans for the future together.
Worried that the digital displays that we use all day put extra stress on our eyes, TCL unveiled its NxtPaper display technology a couple of years ago. It focuses on eye comfort and reducing glare (as a side bonus it's resistant to fingerprints too), while maintaining vibrant colors.

Earlier this year the company launched version 2.0 of the technology, but there are still only a few products with it  three tablets and one convertible laptop. Now the company is ready to bring NxtPaper to the smartphone market. Two phones, in fact.

TCL 40 NxtPaper

The TCL 40 NxtPaper has a 6.78 LCD with 90Hz refresh rate (FHD+, 20.5:9). There is a special e-reader mode that enables grayscale mode for the UI to make reading easier on the eyes.

TCL 40 NxtPaper

Additionally, you can use the phone as a notepad with the optional case that includes a T-Pen stylus. NxtPaper tech is composed of several layers, one of which makes using the stylus feel closer to using a real pen and paper.

Anyway, this phone is powered by the Helio G88 paired with has 8GB of RAM (expandable with up to 8GB virtual RAM) and 256GB storage. A microSD slot is available if you need more (its a triple card slot, 2 SIM + 1 microSD).

The triple camera setup includes a 50MP main module (1/2.76 sensor, 0.64m pixels). It is joined by a 5MP ultra wide camera (115) and a 2MP macro module. The camera on the front has a 32MP sensor (1/3.45, 0.65m). The main rear and the front cameras can record 1080p videos at 30fps.

50+5+2MP rear camera (plus 32MP selfie camera)

The TCL 40 NxtPaper isnt just for reading and note taking, its large display is flanked by stereo speakers with DTS 3D Boom Sound tech. There is a 3.5mm headphone jack available as well.

The phone supports 33W fast charging (USB-PD 3.0) for its 5,010mAh battery. 50% is achieved in around half an hour, a full charge takes 100 minutes. Note that the 33W charger and a USB-C 2.0 cable are included in the box.



TCL 40 NxtPaper in Midnight Blue



TCL 40 NxtPaper in Opalescent

TCL 40 NxtPaper 5G

As the name suggests, the TCL 40 NxtPaper 5G also uses the companys eye-comfort display technology now paired with 5G. This is a smaller display, however, 6.6 and with only HD+ resolution (20:9). It still runs at 90Hz, though.

TCL 40 NxtPaper 5G

The focus here is on providing next-gen connectivity at a reasonable price. Its Dimensity 6020 chipset is still paired with 256GB storage, but the RAM capacity was reduced to 6GB (+6GB virtual). The dual card slot can accept two SIMs or one SIM plus one microSD card.

Both phones come with Android 13 out of the box (with NxtPaper UI). They will receive at least one OS update and security patches for at least two years (more are possible, but this will be determined in the future).

The battery capacity is 5,000mAh with support for 15W charging. The retail package only comes with a cable, though, so youll have to use one of your own.



TCL 40 NxtPaper 5G in Starlight Black

The 5G model still boasts a triple camera including a 50MP main module (1/2.76, 0.64m). There are also a 2MP macro cam and a 2MP depth sensor on the back. However, the selfie camera was parred back to an 8MP sensor. The front and rear cameras are limited to 1080p at 30fps video recording.

Like the 4G model, this phone has a fingerprint reader built into its power button. This one has only one speaker, but at least it kept the 3.5mm headphne jack.

Pricing & availability

The two NxtPaper phones will be available in stores in just a few weeks. The TCL 40 NxtPaper will cost 200/180 ($215/18,000) and will be available in Europe next month with plans to launch in more regions later this year.



TCL 40 NxtPaper in Midnight Blue and Opalescent

The TCL 40 NxtPaper will be 250/220 ($270/22,500) and is coming to Europe in October. Again, TCL plans to make it available in more regions around the world by the end of 2023, but those plans will be announced later.



TCL 40 NxtPaper 5G in Starlight Black

PS. TCL also unveiled new tablets, plus new AR glasses, all of those are covered in a separate post.
Andrea Odell, who grew up snorkeling at Ypao Beach, is now one of seven to receive the National Marine Fisheries Fellowship-Sea Grant Joint Fellowship Program in Population and Ecosystem Dynamics.

The Tamuning residents connection with the ocean started with her dad and local ocean legend, Bob Odell.

The ocean was a huge part of Bob Odells life as he grew up surfing and fishing around Guam and started ocean tourism businesses featuring oceanic activities such as Real-World Diving Company, SeaTrek in UnderWater World and Guam Ocean Adventures.

Ive basically grown up in the ocean and its where I feel most comfortable. I really owe my love of the ocean to my dad who had not only taught me how to surf and dive, but also to respect and care for the ocean and its marine life, says Andrea Odell.

Seeing the poor condition of the reefs while snorkeling at Ypao beach pushed her to pursue a career in marine biology starting as an Aquatic and Fishery Sciences major at the University of Washington.

So much of human history and culture involves fishing. I still believe that we can have healthy oceans that support the livelihoods of coastal communities through fishing, with management efforts that bring in diverse perspectives and sources of knowledge.

She had the opportunity to travel to Alaska and study the Alaskan Sockeye Salmon for a field course on Ecological Research, which is offered every other year, during the summer of 2018.

My senior capstone project explored the spatial and temporal scale of homing in wild Alaskan Sockeye Salmon. My project looked into how close in space and time do they return to their nesting site. All of the data that I used for my project was collected by the Alaska Salmon Program of University of Washington, says Andrea Odell.

Her marine biology research doesnt end there as she is currently in her fourth year in the Ecology PhD program at the University of California Davis.

In between undergraduate and graduate schools, she worked as a lab manager in an ecology lab at the Scripps Institution of Oceanography at the University of California San Diego.

Andrea Odell was recently named as one of eight National Marine Fisheries Fellowship Program in Population and Ecosystem Dynamics, or NMFS-SG Joint Fellowship, awardees.

The grant is designed to help Sea Grant fulfill its broad educational responsibilities and to strengthen the collaboration between Sea Grant and the National Marine Fisheries Service, according to the official Sea Grant website.

PhD students must create and propose a research project that aligns with the goals of NMFS as well as identifying a research mentor at any of the NOAA fisheries science centers in the U.S. who they will be working closely with.

My research focuses on understanding what drives changes in fish populations and how we can leverage that information to improve the way we manage our marine fisheries. This effort is known as Ecosystem-Based Fisheries Management, says Odell.

The application goes through a lengthy review process by a panel of fisheries science experts at the NOAA NMFS and is judged on project quality, applicability, students experience and diversity of education, letters of support and the overall application.

I was one of 7 selected out of a national pool of applicants. The application is quite lengthy. I spent about 3-4 months working on it, says Odell.

She encourages those who are on the path of marine biology to be open to new and challenging experiences.

It is so incredibly important for us from Guam and other Pacific Island communities to participate in decisions being made at the national level because I truly believe we bring a unique and important perspective to fisheries management. So, even though this journey might feel isolating because youre often the only person of color in the room, just remember that your presence matters and is making a difference, says Odell.
To celebrate the Korean Association of Guams 50th anniversary, the association awarded a total of 50 scholarships at KAGs office on Aug. 26 that totaled a value of $50,000.

Scholarships were awarded to 50 students who passed the first application screening process and the round of interviews out of 150 scholarship applicants.

The scholarships were disbursed to provide support to high school and college students in their commitment to academic studies. Students must have displayed evidence of high academic records or difficult home environments.

The scholarship recipients were separated into three categories with different awards:

Grand Award: A free Apple iPad and a $1,000 check

Cheyunne Ahn Darwin Delos Santos Ecijan Jr. Joanne Oh Kim Nonilon Santos

Excellent Award: A $1,000 check

Alexander Kim Alexis Robinson Alvin Jay P. Nuque Amara Manzana Tyquiengco Benjamin Kim Brielle Lee Chaemin You Cheyoung Ahn Clarence Jefferey M.M. Cortez Daniel Francis U. Iriarte Danielle M. Vergara Diana Marie G. Vergara Ella S. Pobre Eo Jin Kim Faith Della Arriola Grace Daeun Lee Heng-wei Lin Ivan Kyler Merza Pamplona Jada Elise Gloria Han Ji Hong Cha Kelvin Soo Lee Kenly T. Magwili Lance Alexander Pascual Santos Nicholle Pineda Ralph Ashely G. Pineda Renzo Bansil Seohee Min Seohyun Kim Sua Euh Sujeong Lee Vaneza P. Supnet Vinicia Kim William Han Wu Ju Cho Yani M. Wooton Youngjin Cheon

Bronze Award: A free Apple iPad

Alicia Nina Drew Dumlao Tandoc Claire H. Yi Ji Hoo Cha Jiyun Lee Joshua Kim Samuel Dabin Lee Soyoung Baek Thaddeus Eli Atoigue Lizama Theone Jay Gerardo Marquez Ye-Jun Yeo

The scholarship ceremony was part of the 31st Korean Association of Guams fundraising activities for the past six months.

According to KAG Chairman, Hong-Soon Im, the process was difficult and required additional effort and preparation due to the organizations non-profit status. However, the scholarship fund was still able to come up to $50,000 dollars through donations from numerous agencies and local organizations across Guam.

Ims main goal with the scholarships awarded was to help the students understand the importance of preparing for the future.

These are the future owners of Guam, so they must prepare well for the future, stated Im. The future is starting today, not tomorrow. If they dont prepare for the future, thats preparing for a failure.

Im also shared the value of the pain in studying.

The pain of studying is short and temporary, but the pain of not learning will last a lifetime, added Im. If you sleep now, you can have a dream. If you wake up now, your dream can come true.

Im added the need for students to practice good habits.

Throw the bad habits to the trash can, and add in more good habits to live a successful, happy and healthy life, said Im. This is the fertilization of the future. In sharing the love and care, this is how we grow great generations in the future.

Congratulating the success of this event, Im concluded to express his hope that the next Korean Association of Guam will continue this meaningful event.

This confirmed that the Korean Association of Guam is making a great contribution to society through continuous support and valuable events for future generations, concluded Im.
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George L. Charfauros Jr. is a former Homeland Security Advisor to Governor Eddie Calvo. He retired as a Colonel from the US Army and served as the Director of Operations for the Guam National Guard for several years. During his career in the Guard, he responded to several major local disasters: Typhoons Paka, Chataan, and Pongsona, the KAL 801 crash, and the islands security response to the 9/11 attacks.




Haiti - FLASH : Massacre of the faithful of Pastor Marco, official version of the PNH





In a note, Frantz Elbe Director General a.i. of the National Police of Haiti (PNH) gives the official version of the facts on the massacre of faithful of Pastor "Marco" in Canaan https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-40355-haiti-flash-a-faithful-march-against-the-canaan-gang-ended-in-a-bloodbath-video.html



"On Saturday August 26, 2023, a crowd headed by the religious leader Marcorel Zidor, made up of several hundred of his followers dressed in jerseys bearing a logo bearing his name, as well as individuals armed with machetes and Others armed with assault rifles wearing olive green uniforms staged a protest without notifying the National Police. This crowd would have had the objective of going to dislodge the members of gangs based in Canaan led by the named Jeff thus known



Once informed, the Police had taken measures by establishing security perimeters to prevent the demonstrators from reaching their destination, and began talks with a view to convincing the organizers not to continue in this enterprise to avoid carnage on the part of bandits who have an arsenal of war.



However, the protesters bypassed the security arrangements that were established by law enforcement, and still arrived at the desired areas to confront the said gang members. Which confrontation, killed by bullets, and several injured in the ranks of the demonstrators. Some worshipers have even been kidnapped. The National Police condemns this 'regrettable' tragedy and offers its sympathy to the families and loved ones of the victims.



In addition, the PNH would like to inform the general public that a judicial investigation has already been opened at the Central Directorate of Judicial Police (DCPJ), with a view to determining the responsibilities of all the actors in this case so that such irrational acts do not happen again [...]"



See also :

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-40364-haiti-flash-pastor-marco-summoned-by-justice-for-the-canaan-massacre.html

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-40355-haiti-flash-a-faithful-march-against-the-canaan-gang-ended-in-a-bloodbath-video.html



HL/ HaitiLibre






















Haiti - Security : The MSF hospital in Tabarre has resumed its activities





Monday, August 28, the Medecins Sans Frontieres (MSF) hospital in Tabarre resumed its activities after the armed intrusion on July 7 which had caused the temporary closure of admissions in traumatology https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-39962-haiti-insecurity-the-msf-hospital-in-tabarre-attacked-suspend-its-activities.html Note that the MSF hospital in Tabarre includes a traumatology service and a burns service for a total of 75 beds.



"We are pleased to resume all activities and be at the service of the public once again. The decision to suspend activities was difficult, given the vital role of this hospital in meeting medical needs in Port-au-Prince. But the decision to re-open was difficult as well because there is no place for violence or weapons inside a medical facility. What happened in July is absolutely unacceptable. We will not be able to work unless the patients and health professionals are respected, said Mumuza Muhindo, MSF Head of Mission.



Adding "MSF is committed to Haiti and its people; That is why we continue to have discussions with all stakeholders and armed groups, including law enforcement forces, to ensure that the conditions allow us to continue our services and work safely in Tabarre. Our message to everyone carrying a weapon in Haiti is clearthat respect for health facilities, patients, and staff is non-negotiable. The survival of the Tabarre hospital will depend on everyone abiding by this."



Let's remember that MSF has been working in Haiti since the early 1990s and has been one of the main players in the response during acute crises such as the 2010 earthquake and the cholera epidemic from 2010. Its current activities in Haiti cover trauma and medical emergencies, burns, sexual violence, mother and child care and general consultations.



HL/ HaitiLibre






















Haiti - News : Zapping...





Intervention in Haiti, vote at the UN

On September 15, 2023, the resolution authorizing an intervention in Haiti will be submitted to the vote of the members of the UN Security Council, according to UN diplomatic sources.



OAS : Last attempt at mediation

The emissaries appointed by Caricom to mediate between Haitian actors will stay in Haiti from September 4 to 10, 2023 for a final attempt to obtain a political agreement between the protagonists in Haiti to resolve the crisis...



Strengthening Customs-Business Partnership

As part of the strengthening of the customs-business partnership and with the aim of contributing to the economic development of the country by promoting national production, a delegation from Haitian customs visited the HM Group and the BRANA S.A. company last week. During these visits, the managers of these companies greatly welcomed this initiative and took the opportunity to discuss with Customs the positive contributions of strengthening this partnership for the country.



Health : Training on Basic Life Support

As part of the partnership between the National Ambulance Center (CAN) and the State University of Haiti (UEH), three training sessions on "Basic Life Support" were organized for the benefit of 53 employees of the Hospital Peace University. Priority has been given to personnel assigned to the Emergency Department who, among other things, benefit from more advanced training on the Advanced Cardio Life Support module. It should be noted that among these participants, potential trainers capable of replicating the training for other members of staff have been identified. They will soon undergo training as trainers to enable them to better transmit the knowledge acquired.



Artibonite road drilling project

"The Lorquet Foundation for a New Haiti (FOLONHA), congratulates the initiative of civil society, the religious sector and the planters of Artibonite, to drill a road in the locality of 'Gardere', a neighborhood bordering with the communes Liancourt and those of Saint-Marc, which should lead to the central Bas-Plateau."



PNH : New North-West Department Director

Divisional Commissioner Cetoute Clevens has been installed as the new Departmental Director of the North-West Police, replacing Louis Edner Hyacinthe, who is transferred to the Departmental Directorate of Grand'Anse.



HL/HaitiLibre


















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Helsingin Sanomat on Sunday reported that Torden, who is also known as Yan Petrovsky , was granted the residence permit on grounds of the study-based residence permit of his wife.

VOISLAV TORDEN , a 36-year-old Russian citizen who is wanted for war and terrorist crimes by Ukraine, has been granted a one-year residence permit in Finland, according to YLE and Helsingin Sanomat .

Petrovsky is the subject of sanctions and an entry ban by the European Union. He is a founding member of Rusits, a Russian neo-Nazi organisation with reported ties to the notorious mercenary group Wagner. Rusits has declared that it will not engage in any fighting unless Russia calls for the release of Petrovsky.

Reports about his residence in Finland emerged on Friday, as the District Court of East Uusimaa ruled in favour of a police request to extend his remand indefinitely in order to facilitate consideration of the extradition request from Ukraine. A decision on the extradition will be made later by the Ministry of Justice.

YLE on Monday reported that Torden was apprehended at Helsinki Airport in July after border officials had determined his former identity based on intelligence.

The criminal suspicions relate reportedly to the role of Rusits in Eastern Ukraine in 20142015. Natalia Malgina, the legal counsel of Torden, told Helsingin Sanomat on Saturday that her client admits to participating in political activity in the country in 2014 but denies having participated in fighting or carrying out terrorist acts.

Ilkka Haahtela, the director general of the Finnish Immigration Service (Migri), on Monday stated to YLE that no suspicions emerged about the identity of the man during the application process. Because Migri was unaware of his former identity, it was also unaware of the entry ban and his inclusion on the sanctions list.

Of course wed never make a residence permit decision for a person whose identity was unclear or hasnt been reliably verified, he said.

Haahtela pointed out that co-operation between authorities has led to the apprehension of several people who have used forged identification documents to try to enter Finland and Europe. It may be necessary, he added, to re-examine the co-operation to ensure immigration officials have access to all relevant information.

Our activities alone arent enough because we dont have access to all the information that could be relevant in certain cases. Well have to talk about how we could receive enough information from all security authorities when necessary, he said.

Prime Minister Petteri Orpo (NCP) on Sunday stated during what was his first regular interview with the public broadcasting company that the uncertainty surrounding Wagner, following the death of its leader, Yevgeny Prigozhin, poses a serious threat to Finland.

He said he is concerned about the situation especially from the viewpoint of border security and the ability of authorities to reliably determine the identities of everyone seeking access to Finland. The government, he indicated, will weigh up the possibility of tightening entry rules in response to the situation.

Ive asked for updated information on the different kinds of cross-border traffic and an assessment of whether we should be doing even more, he commented.

Aleksi Teivainen  HT
India, August 29, 2023: Paula Young, USAs leading brand for wigs and hairpieces, launched in India on June 1 through a partnership with Diva Divine Hair. The brand aims to cater to the diverse needs of women experiencing hair loss or seeking fashionable and high-quality hair alternatives. As India's beauty industry reaches new heights, the launch of Paula Young marks a significant milestone.

Our hair holds an abundance of meaning. Generations upon generations of Indian women have worn their hair as symbols of beauty, love, pride, and gentle care. It is a marker of identity, rooted in Indian culture, heritage, and all that it encompasses.

"Paula Youngs wide range of high-quality wigs, its accessible pricing and the frictionless buying experience has made it easier than ever before to change or even enhance your look. From long and wavy to stylish short bob cuts, the choices are limitless," says Mr. Yaduraj Singh, CEO of Diva Divine Hair.

He further adds, "In Delhi, Mumbai, Hyderabad and Bengaluru, we offer complimentary consultancy and trials within the comfort and privacy of ones home, keeping in mind a lot of our clients are experiencing Alopecia and hair loss due to Chemo or other medical treatments."

Comfort is key, and Paula Young delivers

One of the most compelling aspects of Paula Young's collection of wigs, made from synthetic fibres, is its unwavering emphasis on versatility. From long, flowy locks, sleek bobs, and chic mid-length styles to edgy pixie cuts, Paula Youngs broad spectrum of styles is sure to please every taste and preference. Each wig is skillfully designed, ensuring a natural look that seamlessly blends with your own hair to elevate your look.

Ms. Nidhi Tiwari, Director of Diva Divine Hair, says, "Whether someone is new to the world of wigs or a seasoned pro, Paula Young's team of experts, available at Diva Divine Hair stores, are here to welcome all and bring a delightful shopping experience to everyone."

She adds, "Paula Youngs synthetic wigs mimic the realistic look and feel of natural human hair. Not only do they offer versatility and comfort, but they are super affordable too."

Comfort is key, and Paula Young delivers. Their lightweight and breathable wig designs ensure comfortable wear, no matter the weather or occasion. Moreover, their special heat-friendly fibres allow you to style your wig just the way you like it!

With a range of hair textures, colours, lengths, styles, and more, Paula Young ensures that no one is left behind in their pursuit of hair fashion! Beyond its exceptional product offerings, Paula Young is dedicated to delivering an exceptional customer experience. The brands team of experts at Diva Divine stores is readily available to assist customers in finding the perfect wig to suit their individual needs, ensuring a seamless and personalised shopping journey.

With its launch in India, the brand aims to offer choice to its customersthe choice to explore their personal style and the space to embrace their innate beauty. With hair being a tool of self-expression, the ability to effortlessly transform looks opens up a world of creativity and the joy of self-discovery.

Experiment with different hairstyles, colours, and lengths, and revel in the confidence and beauty that come from expressing your true self. Whether it's for a special occasion, to make a fashion-forward statement, as a solution for hair loss, or simply to satisfy your desire for change, Paula Young helps you curate a unique identity and wear a style that's authentically you. Unleash your imagination and let your creativity flourish, because theres nothing standing between you and the look of your dreams.

India has always celebrated beauty and embraced a rich tapestry of hair culture. From the fables our grandmothers shared while massaging oil into our scalps to the mesmerising cinematic moments where tresses were wielded as weapons of romanticization and more, our creative imagination has been interlaced with iconic hairstyles.

The seeds of grace were sown with Sadhanas wispy fringes in Waqt, Asha Parekhs vibrant ribbons and bangs in Caravan, Hema Malinis high ponytail in Seeta Aur Geeta, Zeenat Aman, Shabana Azmi, Smita Patil, and Aishwarya Rais long luscious locks, and Deepika Padukone and Alia Bhatts trendy cuts, as they slowly became our timeless inspiration. And with Paula Young, these iconic styles no longer seem like an unfulfilled desire.

Embark on a transformative journey of individualism and style and express yourselves authentically with Paula Young. So whether youre a queen of the 80s, simmering at 60, or fiery at 40, your natural hair is just the beginning. Join Paula Young in revolutionising the haircare landscape and enhancing the spirited culture of wigs today!

As part of its launch, Paula Young is pleased to offer exclusive introductory discounts and promotions, making it even more accessible for consumers to experience the quality and style synonymous with the brand.

Check out the latest collection of Paula Young wigs available in Diva Divine Hair stores in Delhi, Mumbai, Hyderabad, and Bangalore. Paula Young also offers home services in these metro cities, making wig-wearing a breeze. Contact them at contact@dividivinehair.com or call them at +91 9650377003 or +91 9810884349.

Visit the Paula Young website for further information and to explore their collection of high-quality wigs.

Disclaimer: This article is a paid publication and does not have journalistic/editorial involvement of Hindustan Times. Hindustan Times does not endorse/subscribe to the content(s) of the article/advertisement and/or view(s) expressed herein. Hindustan Times shall not in any manner, be responsible and/or liable in any manner whatsoever for all that is stated in the article and/or also with regard to the view(s), opinion(s), announcement(s), declaration(s), affirmation(s) etc., stated/featured in the same.

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Aug 29th, 2023, MUMBAI  Nucleus Office Parks (Nucleus), which manages an industry leading portfolio of over 20 million square feet of Grade A commercial assets in India, hosted its second annual Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Summit. More than 170 real estate and policy experts from leading organizations including Harappa Education, Infosys, Schneider Electric, Cushman & Wakefield, Cyril Amarchand Mangaldas, and Deloitte Consulting, gathered under the theme of Staying Ahead of the ESG Curve to share best ESG practices.

Quaiser Parvez, Chief Executive Officer, Nucleus Office Parks (left), and Jiji Thomas, Head of Operations (right), Nucleus Office Parks

At the event, Quaiser Parvez, Chief Executive Officer, Nucleus, and Jiji Thomas, Head of Operations, Nucleus, unveiled Nucleus Sustainability Report. In its second edition, the report showcases the companys progress and continued commitment to sustainability. Highlights include:

Achieving 65% renewable energy usage across Nucleus assets, resulting in 110,539 tCO2e saved, which is equivalent to 455 million kilometers driven by an average gasoline-powered passenger vehicle

Increasing water reuse by 75% in FY23 vs. 68% in FY22

Partnering with BAIF Development Research Foundation to plant 8,000 trees in Pune and Lakkihalli

Supporting 550 students from underserved communities with education and life skills training

Receiving a number of world-renowned recognitions and certifications: Indias most extensive office portfolio to receive LEED certifications for existing buildings O+M v4.1, with almost 86% of buildings rated Platinum One of Nucleus prime assets in Bengaluru, One Trade Tower, achieved LEED Zero Carbon certification  the first developer owned project in India to receive this accolade First and largest WELL at scale-enterprise to achieve the WELL Performance Rating globally Five-star rating for standing investments from GRESB and recognition for being a model case study for the industry



In addition, Nucleus recently joined Schneider Electrics pledge, Green Yodha, a collective effort to support Indias sustainability vision.

Parvez said: Our ESG Summit was a special event, bringing together industry leaders to discuss and learn from each others ESG journeys. At Nucleus, we believe in meaningful, sustainable growth, which not only makes business sense but also better serves our investors and communities in which we live and operate.

Please visit Nucleus ESG webpage to view the full report.

Disclaimer: This article has been produced on behalf of the brand by HT Brand Studio.

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Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], August 28: The Smiling Souls, a heartwarming Social Enterprise that combines technology and human connection, marked World Senior Citizens Day with its annual event that encapsulated its commitment to honoring seniors and fostering inclusivity for individuals with special needs. This day is also the 1st official anniversary of 'The Smiling Souls'.

Since its inception, the team has been dedicated to brightening the lives of Seniors and individuals with special needs. The result is a growing global family that has been alleviating boredom and loneliness, forging new friendships & connections, and treating seniors & special individuals like dignified, cherished family members.

The Celebration event was a testament to The Smiling Souls' commitment to positively impacting the lives of seniors and individuals with special needs. The event featured many activities, including songs, performances, dances, heartfelt conversations, and celebrations by some of the youngest at heart 85-year-olds.

One of the most striking highlights of the evening was "The Fashion Show," where all the seniors walked the ramp for the first time in their lives and felt glamorous & glorified like a model /celebrity. They overcame fears of being in the spotlight, walking, talking, and expressing themselves on a stage /ramp. This was the first-of-its-kind fashion show that involved both seniors and specials. The event was also telecasted live to the other Club members through The Smiling Souls virtual platform.

One of the most striking highlights of the evening was The Fashion Show

The core team left no stone unturned to align this event to their core values of creating inclusion, social bonding, empowerment, dignity, care, and convenience for seniors & specials as well as for all the stakeholders in the ecosystem, along with their vision to spread Happiness & Wellness to 1 million families by 2025.

On the occasion, Founder & CEO Mr. Sunil Khosla, who was also anchoring the event, said, The Seniors are the torchbearers of our culture & embodiment of wisdom. We aspire to build the largest engaged global community of Seniors & specials & multiple avenues to spread 'Happiness and Wellness'.

Our services will also strengthen family bonding while ensuring inclusivity & diversity.

Founder & COO Ms. Tejasa Jhaveri, who also hosted the Fashion Show, added, The seniors, too, dream of doing something noteworthy, desire to be noticed, wish to belong. But age, experiences, and routine challenges can douse the spark in them. It takes just one tiny flame to ignite a spark, precisely what we do daily.

On August 21st, the Ramp Walk was one such experience that made them shed all their fears and inhibitions and walk tall.

Our continuous research and interaction with seniors help us customize and curate all the content, which is strictly live, interactive, and stimulating. A passionate team & associates aligned with the cause are our backbone and help spread this happiness & wellness.

The unique hybrid model of Virtual Engagement & selective in-person celebrations gives them the best of both worlds - Home delivery of Happiness and wellness and the joy of face-to-face meetings & interactions with community members.

The Smiling Souls is also formally scaling its Corporate Gifting module for employees and their senior family members and a marketplace that caters to the specific needs of Seniors & their loved ones. It is also looking to forge effective partnerships in Senior elderly care to accelerate its community's growth and mission.

For more information about The Smiling Souls and their initiatives, please visit www.thesmilingsouls.com or download the mobile App.

Contact:

Email: happy@thesmilingsols.com

Phone: +91 8976732074

Disclaimer: This article is a paid publication and does not have journalistic/editorial involvement of Hindustan Times. Hindustan Times does not endorse/subscribe to the content(s) of the article/advertisement and/or view(s) expressed herein. Hindustan Times shall not in any manner, be responsible and/or liable in any manner whatsoever for all that is stated in the article and/or also with regard to the view(s), opinion(s), announcement(s), declaration(s), affirmation(s) etc., stated/featured in the same.

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Setting a succession plan in motion, Mukesh Ambani announced on Monday, at the 46th Annual General Meeting (AGM) of his Reliance Industries Limited (RIL), that his children, twins Akash and Isha, and the youngest, Anant, are being appointed to the conglomerate's board of directors. From left to right: Akash, Anant, Isha, Nita, and Mukesh Ambani (File Photo/PTI)

While the siblings have been on the board of RIL's operating companies, this is their first time on the parent firm's board.

Here is all you need to know about Akash, Isha, and Anant Ambani:

Akash: Last year, the Ambani couple's first-born succeeded his father as the chairman of Reliance Jio Infocomm Limited, the country's largest mobile operator. Born on October 23, 1991, in Mumbai, he married Shloka Mehta, the daughter of industrialist Russell Mehta, in March 2019.

They are parents to a son, Prithvi (born in December 2020), and a daughter, Veda (born in May 2023).

Isha: The younger twin, meanwhile, heads Reliance Retail, the group's retail arm. In 2016, she launched online fashion brand Ajio, a subsidiary of Reliance Retail. In August last year, Isha was appointed by her father as the CEO of Reliance Retail.

In December 2018, she married Anand, the son of businessman Ajay Piramal. In November last year, Isha and Anand welcomed twins, a daughter, and a son. The twins were named Aadiya and Krishna, respectively.

Anant: The youngest among Ambani sibling is a regular presence at the matches of the Mumbai Indians (MI), an Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise, one of several MI teams owned by the group. He heads the new energy sector at Reliance.

Born on April 28, 1995, also in Mumbai, he got engaged to Radhika Merchant earlier this year. Her father is businessman Viren Merchant.

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Raksha Bandhan, one of the prominent Hindu festivals is celebrated across India and various parts of the world. This year, Raksha Bandhan will be celebrated on August 30, and some cities will witness the closure of banks on August 30 and 31 in observance of the festival. According to the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) holiday calendar, banks will remain closed on August 30 in Rajsthan's Jaipur.(HT File)

Read here: Free bus travel for women in 14 U.P. dists on Rakshabandhan

According to the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) holiday calendar, banks will remain closed on August 30 in Rajasthan's Jaipur and Himachal Pradesh's Shimla. Meanwhile, On August 31, Banks will in remain closed on Uttarakhand's Dehradun, Sikkim's Gangtok, Uttar Pradesh's Kanpur, Lucknow, Kerala's Kochi and Thiruvananthapuram on the occasion of Raksha Bandhan/Sree Narayana Guru Jayanthi/Pang-Lhabsol.

While banks will be closed during these dates, online banking services, including mobile and internet banking, will remain operational as usual.

Read here: Raksha Bandhan 2023: Puja rituals, shubh muhurat and all you want to know

The RBI places the holidays under three brackets- Holiday under the Negotiable Instruments Act; Holidays under the Negotiable Instruments Act and Real-Time Gross Settlement Holidays; and Banks' Closing of Accounts.

Overall, there were 14 bank holidays including weekends and festivals in August, depending on the state. Meanwhile, as per the RBI calendar, Banks will be closed for 16 days in September due to national and regional holidays including Sri Krishna Janmashtami and Ganesh Chaturthi.

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The Cauvery Water Regulation Committee (CWRC) passed an interim order asking Karnataka to release 5,000 cusecs of water to Tamil Nadu daily for the next 15 days till September 2. Earlier, the Tamil Nadu government approached the Supreme Court seeking direction to Karnataka to release 24,000 cusecs of water daily per day from the reservoirs in Karnataka. Cauvery water board directs Karnataka to release water to TN for next 15 days.

Also Read - Kaveri water row: CJI Chandrachud to constitute bench for hearing pleas of Karnataka, Tamil Nadu

Meanwhile, the farmers at Mandya held a protest against the interim order of CWRC on Tuesday. Farmers blindfolded themselves and held a protest against the government in front of the Cauvery Irrigation Corporation office at the main gate of the KRS dam in Mandya.

The farmers demanded to stop the release of water to Tamil Nadu immediately as there is a severe water scarcity in Karnataka.

Speaking to ANI, Karnataka minister MB Patil said, Cauvery Water Regulation Committee (CWRC) has directed us to give 5,000 cusecs of water to Tamil Nadu for fifteen days. We do not have water, its an order that is very difficult for us to implement so we have taken the legal route. Patil also said there is a need for a distressed formula on the issue.

We want a distressed formula on this long pending issue. A formula which is based on scientific and practical approach and unless and until there is a formula, it will be an embarrassing situation for all of us, he added.

The Supreme Court on Friday refrained from passing any order on the Tamil Nadu governments plea on the release of Cauvery water, saying it doesnt possess any expertise on this issue and sought a report from the Cauvery Water Management Authority (CWMA) on the quantum of release made by Karnataka.

Tamil Nadu government has approached the top court seeking direction to Karnataka to release 24,000 cusecs of water daily per day from the reservoirs in Karnataka.

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The Karnataka High Court has quashed a criminal case against two persons who had painted graffiti on the walls of a school during the recent Hijab row -- based on the technical ground that the Vijayanagar district is not notified under the Karnataka Open Places (Prevention of Disfigurement) Act. Muzammil, 23, and Mohammad Jamaul, 25, from Hosapete in Vijayanagara district were charged under the act after the headmaster of the Government Girls High School in the town had complained to the police. The headmaster of a government girls high school in Hospete had found the graffiti, 'Hijab is our dignity', written on the school walls in black paint.

READ | Indonesian school partially shaves heads of more than a dozen girls after teacher's hijab complaint

On March 16, 2022, the headmaster had found the graffiti, 'Hijab is our dignity', written on the wall of the school in black paint. The Hosapete town police had investigated the matter. After a case was registered against the two accused, a charge sheet had been filed in the court against them. The two persons then approached the high court seeking to get the case dismissed.

Justice M Nagaprasanna heard their petition and delivered the judgment on August 1. The advocate for the accused argued that Vijayanagara district is not notified under the Act under which the two were accused. For an incident to become an offence under Section 3 of the Act, the rigor of Section 1 of the Act will have to be noticed.

READ | After viral videos on Hijab, govt college mandates uniforms for students

Section 1 of the Act directs that to bring a place/local area within the ambit of the Act, a notification from the hands of the state government is imperative. It is an admitted fact that Hosapete Town is not the one that is notified to be coming within the Act, for the respondents to allege that the petitioners have incurred themselves the wrath of Section 3 of the Act, the HC said. "Therefore, quashing the case against the two accused," the HC said.

"In light of the fact that there is no notification issued by the State bringing in Hosapete Town under the Act, further proceedings if permitted to continue would become an abuse of the process of the law and result in miscarriage of justice.

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The Karnataka High Court has rejected a petition filed by a sub-registrar challenging the investigation against him about the registration of a property allegedly signed by late Maharaja of Mysore Srikantadatta Narasimha Raja Wodeyar. Karnataka HC

Also Read - Hijab graffiti: Karnataka HC quashes case against two persons from Hospet

Wodeyar is claimed to have signed away the the property which is a site measuring 300 feet by 200 feet in Alanahalli Village, Kasaba Hobli, Mysuru on December 7, 2013 before he died on December 10 the same year. His wife Pramoda Devi had filed a complaint against this alleging fraud, which had been closed in October 2015.

Later in April 2016, H S Cheluvaraju, a government employee, filed a complaint with the Lokayukta alleging fraud by the then sub-registrar Ramaprasad R. The senior sub-registrar challenged it before the Karnataka State Administrative Tribunal (KSAT) which refused to stay the investigation by the Lokayukta. He then approached the HC.

The bench of Justices G Narendar and C M Poonacha rejected his petition in its judgment that was pronounced recently. "The tribunal after looking into the contents of the report has recorded a categorical finding that there is prima facie material to show the involvement of the petitioner in the alleged incident. Having regard to the same, no ground is made out by the petitioner to interfere with the said finding in the present writ petition," the HC said in its judgment.

Ramaprasad had registered the property in 2013 in the name of one Siddamma based on an alleged confirmation deed executed by Wodeyar. It was claimed by him that Wodeyar had visited the sub-registrar office but due to his ill health, the documents were signed by him in the basement.

The HC noted the reports by the Lokayukata police that Wodeyar was in Bengaluru during the period and he did not even visit Mysuru.

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Rahul Singh Lodhi, 45, one of the 28 first-time ruling Bharatiya Janata Pary (BJP) lawmakers in Madhya Pradesh, was last week inducted into chief minister Shivraj Singh Chouhans council of ministers months before assembly elections are due in the state. He was chosen even as several ministerial aspirants who have been assembly members multiple times were overlooked. The BJP has announced a slew of measures to blunt infighting and anti-incumbency in Madhya Pradesh. (Hindustan Times)

No official reason was given for the BJPs preference for Lodhi, who is a nephew of senior BJP leader Uma Bharti. But his caste and family background are believed to have tilted the scales in his favour. Lodhis elevation is seen as part of the BJPs attempt to retain support among the Other Backward Classes (OBC), the single largest voting bloc estimated to be around 50% of the population.

Gaurishankar Bisen, an OBC, and Rajendra Shukla, a Brahmin, were the other two ministers inducted into the council of ministers. Shuklas inclusion is seen as an attempt to placate the Brahmins of the Vindhya region, who are believed to have been upset over the demolition of the house of a Brahmin man accused of urinating on a tribal.

Apart from attempting to get the caste arithmetic right, the BJP has announced a slew of measures to blunt infighting and anti-incumbency in Madhya Pradesh, where it has been in power since 2003 barring 18 months from 2018 to 2020.

Chouhan has announced the creation of the new districts of Mauganj and Pandhurna in Chhindwara, the stronghold of Congress leader Kamal Nath. Congress won all seven assembly seats in Chhindwara in 2018 when the party returned to power under Naths leadership.

Chouhan launched the Ladli Behna scheme in June to provide 1,000 monthly to women with a family income of less than 2.50 lakh annually. As many as 12.5 million women are expected to benefit from the scheme. On August 27, Chouhan announced 250 cash gifts for women on auspicious occasions and LPG cylinders at 450 during the month of Shravan. He promised power bills of just 100 monthly for the poor women.

The government has also pulled out all the stops to ensure trial runs of metro trains in Bhopal and Indore ahead of the elections. On Saturday last, Chouhan unveiled a metro train model in Bhopal. On August 22, he launched Mukhyamantri Seekho Kamao Yojna to train youths for jobs and 8000 to 10000 stipends monthly as per educational qualifications.

Laying of the foundation stone for a Sant Ravidas Temple in Bundelkhand, gratuity up to 10 lakh for contractual employees, and loan interest waiver for farmers are among other measures undertaken to negate anti-incumbency.

Political analyst Dinesh Gupta said the BJP was wary of anti-incumbency and the Congresss five pre-poll guarantees. That is why Chouhan is trying to counter every Congress plank. He is also trying to consolidate the partys base in every segment of voters.

Union home minister Amit Shah has repeatedly visited Madhya Pradesh as part of attempts to counter anti-incumbency and infighting.

Polls in Madhya Pradesh and four other states, which account for roughly 15% of Indias population, are expected to set the tone for the 2024 national elections. The Congress hopes to return to power. It was voted to power in 2018 but lost it in March 2020 when 22 legislators quit the party and resigned from the state assembly.

In May, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi said the Congress will form the next government in the state and win 150 of the 230 seats. The BJP lost power to Congress in Himachal Pradesh in 2022 and Karnataka in May.

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A 15-year-old girl was shot dead by her stalker in a village falling under the Ajnala sub-division here on Tuesday. Senior superintendent of police (rural) Satinder Singh said the accused has been booked under Section 302 (murder) of the Indian Penal Code and other relevant sections of the Arms Act.

According to the police, the incident took place around 5 pm when the girl was present at her aunts (mothers sister) house in the village.

The accused belongs to the same village of the victim. Police said the accused had been harassing the girl for marrying him.

The accused had been stalking my daughter for the past six months. Fed up with his behaviour, we had sent the girl to her aunts house in Ajnala. However, the accused didnt stop and continued harassing my daughter there too, said girls mother.

She said, On Tuesday, the accused reached my sisters house and started enquiring about my daughter. When my sister and her family members did not tell him anything, he barged into the house wielding a pistol. The moment he saw my daughter, he shot her. She was rushed to a private hospital where the doctors declared her dead.

Senior superintendent of police (rural) Satinder Singh said, The accused, who is an adult, is absconding. Our teams are conducting raids to nab him.

He has been booked under Section 302 (murder) of the Indian Penal Code and other relevant sections of the Arms Act, added the SSP.

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The Punjab and Haryana high court has fined a city-based fake Ayurveda doctor 1 lakh for filing a mischievous contempt petition against the Chandigarh Police and a judicial officer. Court stated that allegations against the Chandigarh Police and the chief judicial magistrate were baseless. (HT FILE)

The petitioner, Beerinder Singh Yogi, on March 13, had filed a plea in high court alleging contempt by the Chandigarh Police and a chief judicial magistrate.

He said on November 3, 2022, his brother Sukhjinder Singh Yogi, along with some people, misbehaved with him at his clinic in Sector 22. He gave a complaint to the police, but no action was taken. Later, he filed a complaint before the area magistrate demanding that an FIR be ordered in the case. He had also given complaint to the CBI and senior superintendent of police, Chandigarh.

The court, after hearing responses from those concerned, found that he was not holding any qualification in Ayurvedic or Unani system of medicines.

It stated that he had adopted a ploy to harass the officials of the National Commission for Indian System of Medicine and had filed a false complaint against them.

Court said that in order to escape from the criminal prosecution for faking himself to be an Ayurvedic doctor and sexologist of national level, he had adopted a unique method of first filing a complaint against the officials before the police authorities and then by way of filing a complaint before the chief judicial magistrate, Chandigarh.

The court further stated that allegations against the Chandigarh Police and the chief judicial magistrate were baseless.

Dismissing the plea, the court imposed a fine of 1 lakh on him to be paid to the Punjab and Haryana High Court Employees Welfare Association, within four months.

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Fifty-three families of Chhaprahan village in Gohar sub division in Mandi district have been forced to abandon their ancestral homes and live in tents for the past fortnight since cracks developed in houses after the spell of heavy rain on August 14. Himachal Pradesh deputy chief minister Mukesh Agnihotri meeting landslide-affected families at Dhar Dhangar village in Dharamshala on Monday. (ANI Photo)

Also read: Himachal govt looking to restructure loans of people in disaster-hit areas: Sukhu

Chhaprahan panchayat head Dinesh Kumar said on Tuesday that the families have been staying in relief camps after cracks appeared in 36 houses. Forty-four gaushalas (cow shelters) have also been damaged in the recent rain and landslips.

A resident of the village, Ved Ram, 58, said: Families have moved to safer places but we dont know how long we will have to stay in tents. Children are going to school daily from the tent and senior citizens are going out in search of livelihood. This is a crisis and its not confined to our village. People in Thalout and Balh village of the district are facing a similar problem.

Residents of Thalout village have been rendered homeless not only because of recent deluge but also because of the hill being dug up for building a tunnel nearby. Panchayat samiti member Baldev Thakur said the hill was sinking daily since the digging by the National Highway Authority of India to build the Modnarch tunnel. The rain has accelerated the pace of sinking. After cracks of up to a foot appeared in the village, nearly 50 families left their houses for safer places. They have given up hope of returning now, he said. Forty houses, 16 cowsheds and three temples are in danger.

Govind Ram, a resident, said: Such is the fear that we have not even gone back to get our belongings. Three is no one to listen to our grievances.

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Two days after the Dhakoli police nabbed three drug peddlers with 21 gm cocaine, they arrested a Nigerian national after recovering another 70 gm of the drug from his possession. The accused was booked under relevant sections of the NDPS Act at the Dhakoli police station in Mohali. (HT FILE)

Initial interrogation of Nitish Bishnoi, Saleem and Abhijeet Dhiman, who were caught on August 27, revealed that they had been procuring drugs from a Nigerian citizen, Frances Nawali, alias Frank, resident Ojo Barar Lagos, Nigeria, presently residing at Vikas Nagar, New Delhi, since 2019.

Frank, a drug supplier to nearby states, used to hand over cocaine to Nitin and the other two accused at Hollywood Crossing, Karnal, and the three used to sell it further.

Police laid a trap and nabbed the accused with 70 gm cocaine, said SHO Dhakoli, Sukhbir Singh. He was booked under relevant sections of the NDPS Act at Dhakoli police station.

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Amritsar : The Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee has taken a strong objection to actor Meezaan Jafri allegedly wearing a kirpan (a symbol of Sikh faith) in a song, Saure Ghar, in the upcoming movie Yaariyan-2, and filed a police complaint against the filmmakers. The Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee has taken a strong objection to actor Meezaan Jafri allegedly wearing a kirpan (a symbol of Sikh faith) in a song, Saure Ghar, in the upcoming movie Yaariyan-2, and filed a police complaint against the filmmakers,

The apex gurdwara body secretary, Partap Singh, filed a complaint on with the Amritsar police commissioner on Tuesday.

SGPC (Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee) chief Harjinder Singh Dhami also warned of a legal action against the filmmakers if the objectionable video is not removed.

An SGPC spokesperson said the video of song released on the YouTube channel on August 27 shows a clean-shaven, non-Sikh actor wearing a gatra and kirpan -- Sikh symbols of faith --- which has hurt the sentiments of the Sikh community.

However, the film directors of the film claimed the actor is wearing a khukri (a curved knife) and not a kirpan and that they have no intention to offend or disrespect any religious beliefs.

Jathedar of the Akal Takht, the highest temporal seat of the Sikhs, Giani Raghbir Singh has also directed the Shiromani Gurudwara Prabhandak Committee (SGPC) to take a strict legal action in the matter.

We raise our strong objection to these visuals filmed, published in Saure Ghar song of Yaariyan 2 film directed by Radhika Rao & Vinay Sapru @SapruAndRao, as actor is seen wearing Sikh Kakaar (symbol of Sikh faith) Kirpan in a highly objectionable manner which cannot be accepted, the SGPC said on X, formerly Twitter.

This has seriously hurt the religious sentiments of Sikh community across the globe. Only an initiated Sikh has the right to wear kirpan as per Sikh code of conduct of Akal Takht and the right given by the Constitution, it said.

SGPC in-charge (public relations) Harbhajan Singh Vakta said the gurdwara body also contacted TSeries regarding the matter. He said an official of the company, Rahul Dubey, said the TSeries might consider removing scenes that hurt the Sikh sentiments from the film.

The SGPC has also sought the intervention of the ministry of information and broadcasting, ministry of information technology and electronics, and Central Film Board of Certification, demanding immediate ban on this film and its song, said a SGPC spokesperson.

The directors of the film, Radhika Rao and Vinay Sapru, said they regret any misunderstanding. We would like to address the concerns regarding the visuals in the song - Saure Ghar from our recent film Yaariyan 2. We would like to clarify that the actor in the song is wearing a khukri and not a kirpan. In fact the dialogues in the film make it explicitly clear that it is a khukri, they said, adding their intention was not to offend any religious beliefs.

We want to emphasise our deep respect for religious sentiments, they added.

(With PTI inputs)

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The Delhi governments flagship Deshbhakti curriculum, meant to promote feelings of unity and national integration, has been hailed as a progressive step in the Capitals school system. And yet, 33-year-old Hema Gulati, who taught the Deshbhakti curriculum in a Delhi government school in Kailash Nagar is in the eye of the storm after unleashing a hateful rant against Muslims and Islam in front of a class of 52 students of various faiths. The Delhi government school in east Delhis Kailash Nagar where the incident took place. The teacher used to teach the Deshbhakti Curriculum. (HT photo)

Gulati was booked on Monday under sections 295A (deliberate and malicious acts, intended to outrage religious feelings of any class) and 298 (deliberate intent to wound the religious feelings of any person), among other relevant, sections based on the complaint filed by a 13-year-old Muslim student who was in the class.

She has, however, not been arrested yet, said police, adding that she joined the investigation on Tuesday.

The Delhi government said they have set up a panel to address the matter and will issue anti-discrimination guidelines to all their teachers and principals.

The incident comes days after a teacher at a private school in Muzaffarnagar encouraged some students to slap a classmate while declaring that Muslim children whose parents do not pay attention to their education should be taught a lesson.

According to the complaint, Gulati, not for the first time, went on a hateful rant on August 23, hours before Chandrayaan-3 touched down on the Moon. She was wrapping up a lesson on the Moon, when she veered into vicious comments about Muslims.

Muslims have no role to play in Indias independence... you cut animals and eat them.. you have no mercy, she told Class 9A of the Delhi governments Rajkiya Sarvodaya Bal Vidyalaya, according to the complaint.

She also allegedly made hateful statements against the mosque in Mecca, considered the holiest site in Islam.

One of the children in the class told HT she also asked Muslims students to go to Pakistan. To be sure, this does not find mention in the complaint.

You arent Indians, she allegedly said, according to the boy cited above, who spoke to HT with his parents by his side.

One of the eight-nine Muslims students who study in the class got up and objected, but she allegedly scolded him and asked him to sit. Some other students allegedly clapped at whatever the teacher said, the complainant alleged.

According to students and parents, Gulati had a pattern of similar behaviour in the past.

Four students and their families approached the police on August 25, alleging she made derogatory and objectionable statements against Muslims and Islam on August 23 and multiple times before then as well.

She teaches us Deshbhakti curriculum and two other subjects. But whatever she taught us was not written in any books, said a student.

The abuse came to light when the 13-year-old complainants sister asked him about his day on August 23.

He told me what the teacher said. This wasnt the first time she was making statements against Muslims but this time, I thought I should ask other children as well, said the boys 26-year-old sister Gaushiya Ansari.

The next day, she spoke to a few children from the class who corroborated her brothers claims.

On August 25, Ansari and a few other Muslim parents decided to take action and spoke to the principal and the teacher.

The principal reportedly apologised, when the 26-year-old spoke to him.

He didnt call the teacher the first time. He only called her in when we went for the second time on the same day, she said.

At the time, she apologised to the students and their parents in the principals office.

Parents of the Muslim students demanded strict action against the teacher and that she be suspended from the school. We dont want her near the children. She teaches them Deshbhakti curriculum but we dont know in which book all this she teaches is written. She is creating communal differences between the students, Ansari said.

Deputy commissioner of police (Shahdara) Rohit Meena said that a case was registered on Monday after the children were counselled.

Another Delhi Police officer said: We have recorded statements of the complainants. We have also recorded statements of children from other faiths.

A Delhi government spokesperson said a panel was set up to probe the matter.

An inquiry committee has been set up to look into this matter. Guidelines are also being issued to all teachers and principals for ensuring non-discrimination along lines of religion, caste, region, language, etc.

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Opposition Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Congress will skip chief minister Mamata Banerjees all-party meeting on Tuesday to discuss the proposed West Bengal Foundation Day. Banerjee on Thursday last invited the opposition parties to the meeting. Communist Party of India (Marxist) or CPI(M) was also unlikely to attend. West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee. (ANI)

A ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader said Banerjee wrote to the parties about reservations over the date (June 20) chosen as the Foundation Day.

Governor CV Ananda Bose in June went ahead with the commemoration of the Foundation Day following a Union government advisory even as Banerjee called for canceling the programmes to mark it, saying it would rekindle bitter memories of the states creation after partition.

BJP backed Bose over the state Foundation Day, saying the Bengal legislative assembly met on June 20, 1947, and took a decision on the provinces partition.

A committee with deputy assembly speaker Ashish Banerjee as convenor and Harvard University professor and former TMC lawmaker Sugata Bose as advisor has recommended April 15 as the Bangla Day. It also suggested a state anthem.

BJP spokesman Samik Bhattacharya said they will not be attending the all-party. Congress leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury said the same. We will inform them, he said.

Banerjee in June pointed out the state was not founded on any particular day, least of all on June 20, and that it was formed through the infamous Radcliffe Award, referring to the demarcation of IndiaPakistan and what is now the India-Bangladeshfrontier. She requested Bose to cancel the celebrations while pointing out West Bengal was carved out through a painful and traumatic process after the partition that left tens of thousands dead and millions displaced.

Banerjee has maintained that they have since independence, never rejoiced, commemorated, or celebrated any day as the Foundation Day.

Boses office on May 11 clarified that the advisory on observing Foundation Day was sent to all states and that it commemorated the formation of other states on separate dates.

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The Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) on Tuesday expelled former Uttar Pradesh MLA Imran Masood for indiscipline and anti-party activities. Imran Masoods statement had triggered speculation that he may rejoin the Congress before the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. (File Photo)

The action was taken against Masood after he praised Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, triggering speculation that he may rejoin the Congress before the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. It was good to have worked with Rahul Gandhi. He can understand the problems of even ordinary party workers, Masood had told media persons on Sunday.

In a press statement, BSP Saharanpur district unit president Janeshwar Prasad said, after reports that Masood was indulged in indiscipline and anti-party activities, a probe was ordered by the party state unit. On the basis of the report, Masood has been shown the door. The party leadership had earlier warned Masood, but there was no change in his working style, he said.

Masood, an influential Muslim leader from Saharanpur district in western Uttar Pradesh, joined the BSP after the 2022 assembly election. Before the 2022 assembly election, Masood had defected from the Congress to the Samajwadi Party (SP) while his brother Noman Masood joined the BSP. BSP chief Mayawati had appointed Imran Masood as the coordinator of the West UP, entrusting him the task to motivate the Muslim community to support the BSP in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections.

Janeshwar Prasad said, Imran Masood was handed membership book to launch membership drive in West UP, but he remained inactive. His wife Saima Masood contested mayor election from Saharanpur Municipal Corporation on a BSP ticket but was defeated by the BJP candidate. The party had made it clear to Masood that if his wife loses mayor election, he will not get a Lok Sabha election ticket. But he was putting pressure on the party to declare him as the Lok Sabha candidate from Saharanpur seat, he said.

Haji Fazlur Rehman had won the Saharanpur Lok Sabha seat in 2019 on a BSP ticket, defeating BJP candidate Raghav Lakhanpal.

When contacted, Masood said, I committed a mistake by deserting the Congress before the 2022 assembly elections. Under pressure from my supporters, I left the Congress. Even after leaving the Congress. I have a good relationship with Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Vadra. I respect both the leaders. I was not invited to the party (BSP) meeting held under the chairmanship of Mayawati in Lucknow on August 23.

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The body of the 19-year-old woman security guard, who died a day after she was allegedly raped by her supervisor at the high-rise where she worked, was cremated on Tuesday morning in Ghaziabad. Her family had alleged on Monday night that the police were pressuring them to perform the cremation after sunset. (Representative Image)

The police denied the allegation and said the autopsy of the woman, who died at Safdarjung hospital in Delhi early Monday, was conducted later in the day and the body handed over to her family by late evening.

After the autopsy, the police brought the body in an ambulance to Hindon cremation ground and pressured us to perform the cremation. But our religion does not allow us to do so after sunset. The police also took out the keys of the ambulance and also took away the driver with them, the womans brother claimed.

The police said they only handed over the body to the family who took it late night to their house in Ghaziabad and performed the cremation on Tuesday morning.

There was some confusion in this regard as the ambulance driver had gone to have some food and this led to a delay and further allegations by the family. The issue was resolved and the body was handed to the family who took it to their house at night. The cremation was performed Tuesday morning, said Vivek Chandra Yadav, deputy commissioner of police (DCP), rural.

According to the police, the woman became ill on Sunday afternoon and was admitted to a private hospital and later referred to Safdarjung Hospital in Delhi, where she died the next day. Her family alleged that her supervisor and two unidentified persons gang-raped her in their office at the high-rise on Saturday night.

On their complaint, the Crossings Republik police station registered an FIR of gang-rape, but later the woman in her statement to the magistrate named only the supervisor as her assaulter, after which the FIR was amended to rape.

The officials attached to the investigation said the autopsy of the victim remained inconclusive about the cause of death and the viscera has been preserved for further analysis. They added that the initial medical report indicated that the woman had no internal or external injuries and the cause of her ill health was damage to the lungs, according to doctors who treated her.

The womans family maintained that she was allegedly given some poisonous substance by the suspect after the her rape and this led to her falling ill.

The written autopsy report is awaited even as doctors told us that the cause of death is inconclusive. Once the findings are received, more IPC sections will be added to the FIR. The supervisor has been arrested, the DCP said.

A purported audio clip has also come to the fore in which the weeping woman could be heard telling a security officer about the alleged incident. Another video of her narrating the same thing to several persons standing near her has also surfaced. HT could not independently verify the authenticity of the audio or video clip.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR Peeyush Khandelwal Peeyush Khandelwal writes on a range of issues in western Uttar Pradesh  from crime, to development authorities and from infrastructure to transport. Based in Ghaziabad, he has been a journalist for almost a decade. ...view detail
The Ghaziabad police on Tuesday arrested the 52-year-old principal of a government-aided school on charges of sexual harassment and criminal intimidation of several girl students whose parents registered an FIR on August 22 at Wave City police station. The police also registered a second FIR on a complaint given by the principal against a woman councillor, her two accomplices, two armed guards, an unidentified woman and 50-60 other unidentified persons. (Representative Image)

The FIR was lodged by parents of five girl students of class 9 who alleged that the suspect called the girls separately to his office and made advances towards them and also touched them inappropriately.

We arrested the principal on Tuesday on charges of sexual harassment. He was also called for questioning in this regard. Our teams also tried to search for visual evidence but the CCTV cameras in the principals office have been lying defunct for almost two months. The other cameras in the school were in working order, said Vivek Chandra Yadav, deputy commissioner of police (DCP), rural.

The police also registered a second FIR on a complaint given by the principal against a woman councillor, her two accomplices, two armed guards, an unidentified woman and 50-60 other unidentified persons. The FIR was lodged under Indian Penal Code sections 307 (attempt to murder), 332 (causing hurt to deter public servant from his duty), 353 (assault or criminal force to deter public servant from discharge of his duty), 324 (causing hurt by dangerous weapons or means), 147 (rioting) and 120b (criminal conspiracy).

The principal in his complaint said a mob led by the local woman councillor thrashed him in his office after the girls allegedly complained about the harassment to their families and they approached the councillor for help, said police. The principal in his complaint alleged that the councillor forcibly entered the school with her accomplices and made the girls sign some papers despite him objecting to this.

The attack was a planned conspiracy as I did not entertain any fake admission in the school, the suspect principal maintained in the FIR.

The principal was arrested on the basis of statements given by the girls. The investigation is on in both cases. The medical reports of the principal mention simple injuries. An investigation is on and the people involved in the attack are being identified. They will be arrested soon, the DCP said.

The girls on Monday also sent a letter to chief minister Yogi Adityanath and sought his help in getting justice in the case. The four page letter mentions the case details and also the alleged behaviour of the principal.

The letter, reportedly written in human blood, was widely shared on social media on Monday, said police.

The letter prodded the police into arresting the principal nearly a week after the FIR was lodged against him.

The councillor on Tuesday said the police should not have lodged an FIR against her and the others.

We went to the school to raise the issue faced by the girls and that is no crime. Some agitated locals attacked the principal and the police can check this from the CCTV footage. The girls have also written to the chief minister, the councillor said.

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Lucknow: A 'Robin hood' image, a dictionary definition of which means a "heroic outlaw", in his heyday and political affiliations of all shades, from red to saffron, made former minister Amarmani Tripathi popular as a Brahmin leader in eastern Uttar Pradesh, particularly in Maharajganj district from the 1980s onwards. PREMIUM Considered a 'baahubali' (one who has muscle power) and an influential Brahmin leader in eastern Uttar Pradesh, Tripathi started his political career with the Communist Party of India(HT Archive)

His political clout remained largely undiminished despite being sentenced to life imprisonment with his wife Madhumani Tripathi in the 2003 Madhumita Shukla murder case.

Tripathis popularity too appears to have endured as his office in Maharajganj districts Nautanwa assembly constituency was abuzz with activity after the Uttar Pradesh government ordered his premature release on August 24.

Though Tripathi is still under medical observation at the BRD Medical College in Gorakhpur, his supporters thronged the office after the announcement of his release. They were eager to find out when he would visit the place.

Anup Pandey, one such supporter, said, We are eagerly awaiting his discharge from BRD Medical College hospital and his visit to Nautanwa that sent him to the legislative assembly four times. We have full faith in the Constitution and the judiciary. Justice has been done in the case.

Prabhakar Upadhyay, a student leader, said, The release of Amarmani has energised his supporters. The political scenario in Maharajganj and its adjoining districts is set to change with his release from jail. Amarmani's political moves will make an impact on the 2024 Lok Sabha election. Cutting across party and caste loyalties, he enjoys the support of all the communities in Maharajganj district.

Considered a 'baahubali' (one who has muscle power) and an influential Brahmin leader in eastern Uttar Pradesh, Tripathi started his political career with the Communist Party of India (CPI) under the patronage of his uncle, veteran communist leader Shyam Narayan Tiwari who won the Pharenda assembly seat in Maharajaganj district five times.

Tripathi was a member of the CPI student wing All India Students Federation (AISF) and was tasked with mobilising youths to join the red brigade.

In the early 1980s, the Thakur-Brahmin rivalry became intense in the Gorakhpur region and was marked by a tussle for supremacy between Hari Shankar Tiwari, who led the Brahmin group and Virendra Pratap Shahi who led the Thakur group. Tripathi joined Tiwari's group where he again proved his utility by challenging Shahi in the 1981 and 1985 assembly elections from the Laxmipur seat.

Though he lost both elections, Tripathi emerged as a hero of the Brahmin community. Later, he won the Laxmipur assembly seat in 1989, 1996 and 2002.

After delimitation, Laxmipur was merged with Nautanwa and Tripathi again won in the 2007 assembly election.

Tripathis political clout in the area could be gauged from the fact that all the major political parties -- the Congress, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), the Samajwadi Party and Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP)  opened their doors to him as he hopped from one party to another according to the changing political scenario in Uttar Pradesh. Even in jail, he enjoyed political patronage.
The Uttar Pradesh National Health Mission Employees Federation has written to the state government, urging to stop the process of termination of the services of contractual dental surgeons in the state. Contractual employees for whom the guidelines have been issued, meanwhile, have raised their concerns and urged the UP government to take appropriate measures. (Representative Image)

The federation has also appealed to the state government to reinstate the terminated surgeons at the primary health centers (PHCs) in case of no vacancy at the community health centers (CHCs) so that their families do not undergo financial crisis.

The request comes following a recent direction from the UP government instructing district magistrates and chief medical officers of adhering to the previous order passed in March 2022, of terminating services of contractual dental surgeons and replacing them with the permanent ones.

Chief medical officer (CMO) of Gautam Budh Nagar, Dr Sunil Kumar, said, Directions have been issued by mission director, National Health Mission, Pinky Jowell, to all the district magistrates and chief medical officers to ensure that contractual dental surgeons are not working in place of the regular dental surgeons and services of such employees are terminated. Orders have been issued that legal action will be faced by the officials concerned in case of non-compliance of the issued guidelines.

CMO added, Two contractual dentists posted at Bhangel and Dadha in the district have been given one month notice for termination of services as regular dentists have been appointed at these places as per NHM guidelines.

Contractual employees for whom the guidelines have been issued, meanwhile, have raised their concerns and urged the UP government to take appropriate measures so that they do not face financial crisis due to termination of their services.

In a letter written to Uttar Pradesh deputy chief minister, Brajesh Pathak, who also holds the portfolio of the minister of medical education, medical and health and family welfare, the NHM Contractual Employees Federation has urged that efforts should be taken in the welfare of the employees and the terminated contractual dentists be reinstated at the PHCs.

UP Contractual Employees Federation secretary, Dr Raguvendra Pratap Singh Yadav, said, We have requested the state government to take cognisance of the issues being faced and consider our request. Services of many contractual dental surgeons in various UP districts have already been terminated while the process is underway at other places. We have been dedicatedly performing our duties for the past 15 years and have great experience. But since our services are being ended, we will struggle to feed our families and meet our expenses now.

Secretary Yadav added, We request that termination should not be taken up and efforts should be taken to reinstate contractual dental surgeons in PHCs if the place is not vacant at the CHCs as the experts are capable of treating patients at the PHCs.

According to officials, around 184 contractual dental surgeons were working across the state around two years ago, and the numbers have now reduced to around 80, under the National Health Mission (NHM).

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The Agra Development Authority (ADA) has joined hands with Agra police to ensure hassle free visits for tourists visiting the city of Taj. Notice boards are being placed on the premises of Fatehpur Sikri monument informing tourists bound for Sheikh Salim Chisti Dargah that based on size, no Chaadar to be offered is to cost more than 500. Notice boards placed by ADA on Fatehpur Sikri premises in Agra. (Sourced)

This might look like a routine notice board but once the administration comes up with more such boards, it will have a multiplying effect. Most of the time, a tourist going to the Dargah of Sheikh Salim Chisti, is misled by the hawker and thousands of rupees are charged for the Chaadar, said Deepak Dan, the chairman of Uttar Pradesh Tourist Guide Welfare Association of Agra.

Currently, these notice boards are at limited spots and will really help if more such boards are placed, and nearer the Dargah premises. It is good that the number of SHO at Fatehpur Sikri Police station beside Police Dial No. 112 are given on the board for any tourist in need of help or assistance once they face such a situation on Fatehpur Sikri premises, said Dan.

Charchit Gaur, vice-chairman, Agra Development Authority, said, We have initiated the placing of notice boards on Fatehpur Sikri premises and might enhance the number if they are asked for.

Agra Development Authority has placed similar notice boards near Taj Mahal to assist tourists, he added.

Anshika Verma, additional commissioner of police, officiating as CO at Fatehpur Sikri Police Station said that as yet no complaint has been received on phone numbers given on the notice board.

The tourist can approach the police by phone number or appear in person at Fatehpur Sikri police station, Verma said.

Sheikh Salim Chisti Dargah is a Mazaar of well-known Sufi saint Sheikh Salim Chisti, who is believed, blessed childless Mughal emperor Akbar with an heir to the throne who was named Salim (later Jehangir) after the Sufi saint. Both Hindus and Muslim reach this Dargaah within the boundary wall of Fatehpur Sikri and tie threads in the Jaali (marble mesh work) around the Mazaar of Sheikh Salim Chisti while making a wish and come back to untie the thread if the wish is fulfilled.

Former president of France, Nicolas Sarkozy and his wife Carla Bruni had visited the Dargaah in 2010.

However, shops located within the Dargaah premises and hawkers spread all over are a headache for tourists as these hawkers or lapka (as locally called) mislead tourists and often charge excessive amounts for a Chaadar.

Fatehpur Sikri campus was once the abandoned capital of the Mughal Empire at its peak under the rule of Akbar.

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LUCKNOW: In light of the upcoming G20 Summit scheduled to take place in Delhi from September 9 to 10, flight timings between Lucknows Amausi Airport and Delhis IGI Airport will be rescheduled from September 7th to 11th. G20 Summit (Sourced)

Additionally, a few flights are likely to be cancelled during this period. Airports in Lucknow, Jaipur, and Amritsar have been instructed to be prepared to accommodate the nighttime parking demand from Delhi airport.

Commenting on the matter, an official from Lucknow airport said, The G20 Summit is set to be held in Delhi on September 9 and 10, with the participation of several heads of state. We anticipate the arrival of several private jets carrying VVIPs. Moreover, numerous Indian VVIPs are also expected to attend the event.

The influx of private planes transporting foreign dignitaries for the G20 summit is anticipated to result in limited parking space availability at Delhi airport. Consequently, Lucknow airport has been tasked with ensuring available parking spaces and making suitable arrangements for aircraft parking. Airports near Delhi with sufficient parking capacity, including Lucknow, Amritsar, and Jaipur, have been put on alert. Some flights might even be directed to land at these airports due to the expected congestion at Delhi airport. Officials state that Amausi Airport can accommodate parking for up to 15 aircraft during the night.

Furthermore, due to the increased air traffic at Delhi Airport during the G20 Summit, modifications to flight schedules are expected from September 7 to 11. As per airport sources, Air Indias nightly flight on the 7th is anticipated to be cancelled. Instead, this flight will be rescheduled to depart for Delhi in the morning from September 8 to 11. Specific details regarding the adjusted timings will be released shortly. Notably, flight AI 811 is projected to arrive from Delhi at 8:10 pm, returning as AI 812 to Delhi at 8:40 pm.

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The Odisha prison department has proposed fitting GPS-enabled tracking devices to the ankles of undertrial prisoners facing non-heinous charges to decongest prisons and reduce the governments expenditure on jail inmates. The Odisha prison department said the tracking device can help decongest prisons and reduce the governments expenditure on jail inmates. (Representative Image)

Director general of prisons, Dr Manoj Chhabra said the prison department has sent proposals to the government for fitting of the tracking device, estimated to cost between 10,000 and 15,000, that would alert the police in case the undertrial prisoner tries to escape from a designated area.

It would be tamper proof. We have proposed to the state government to introduce the technology through which we can keep non-violent undertrials involved in petty offences confined in their houses without sending them to jails. The government is still considering it, said Dr Chhabra.

The prison department recently presented the ankle tracking system for undertrials before the parliamentary standing committee on home affairs.

Chhabra said the initiative would reduce prison overcrowding. The Supreme Court had earlier advised states not to arrest offenders for crimes carrying a maximum imprisonment of seven years. Approximately 65% of undertrials in Odishas jails are detained for offences punishable by up to seven years in prison. There are over 20,000 inmates in 87 jails of the state.

Human rights activists in Odisha, however, said the GPS tracking system would have enormous legal ramifications as the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) and the Probation of Offenders Act lack provisions for the release of a prisoner on real-time monitoring. The biggest problem is it violates the right to privacy of an undertrial which is a fundamental right. Once the undertrial is tracked using GPS his/her data is likely to be saved in a server. The Personal Data Protection Act does not cover the use of anonymised data or non-personal data and thus the use of such tracking device is problematic.

Besides such trackers have to be charged regularly for its battery to continue functioning and an undertrial who doesnt want his movements to be supervised can easily let the battery run down without charging it. Like any other device, GPS trackers are vulnerable to technical glitches, said human rights activist Biswapriya Kanungo.

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Amid rising menace of stray dogs across the state, the Orissa high court has asked the Cuttack Municipal Corporation to ensure that unruly stray dogs are removed from the campus of the National Law University of Odisha (NLUO) in Cuttack. Odisha has 17,34,399 stray dogs, according to the Livestock Census 2019. (Representative Image)

Following a petition by NLUO, a division bench of chief justice Subhasis Talapatra and justice Savitri Ratho asked the municipal authorities to remove all stray dogs from the campus within 24 hours.

The NLUO in its petition said Aditya Ray Choudhury, a first year student with 65 per cent disability due to cerebral palsy was chased by the dogs around 15 times and bitten 7 times in the campus in last one month. He was last attacked on August 26 and each time he had to take Anti-Rabies shots.

The NLUO said that the dogs are not original inhabitants of the campus and migrated from the nearby locations like Brajabiharipur, Naraj . Due to ongoing mating season of dogs, the campus dogs have become even more aggressive. Unless those are relocated to their original habitat, normalcy will not return to the University campus, the petition said.

Answering a question on the menace of dog bites in Lok Sabha this month, Union minister of state for health and family welfare Satyapal Singh Baghel said that Odisha saw 64,642 dog bite cases in 2022 compared to 59,085 in 2021. Last year, Maharashtra saw the highest 3,90,878 dog bites followed by Uttar Pradesh (1.91 lakh), Andhra Pradesh (1.89 lakh), Gujarat (1.69 lakh), Karnataka (1.63 lakh), Bihar (1.41 lakh), Telangana (92,613), Rajasthan (87,401), Madhya Pradesh (65,833) and Odisha.

As per the Livestock Census 2019, Odisha has 17,34,399 stray dogs while Uttar Pradesh has the highest number of 20,59,261 street dogs in the country. The number of street dogs in Odisha almost doubled in 2019 from 8,62,520 in 2012. The dog sterilisation drive has been on hold in the state since July 6 following an Orissa high court directive over a public interest litigation (PIL) alleging violation of animal birth control programme norms in Bhubaneswar.

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A special National Investigation Agency (NIA) court of Patna has awarded seven years of rigorous imprisonment to a Nepali national over his involvement as a key accused in a fake currency case. The high-quality FICN, in the denomination of  500 with a total face value of  25.4 lakh was seized on Sept 30, 2015. (Representative file image)

Abi Mohammad alias Nabi Mohammad Ansari, a native of Bara district in Nepal, was arrested from East Champaran.

He has been convicted and awarded seven years of rigorous imprisonment along with a fine of 5,000 under Section 120B of the IPC (Indian Penal Code) with a similar quantum of punishment and fine awarded under sections 489B and 489C of IPC and 16, 18, 20 of UA(P) Act, the NIA said in a statement.

Also Read: UP ATS arrests two conmen from Jharkhand

He is the second accused to be convicted in the case relating to the seizure of high-quality fake Indian currency notes, in the denomination of 500 with a total face value of 25.43 lakh on September 30, 2015.

On the day of the incident, the first convicted accused identified as Mohammad Ali Akhtar Ansari had come to Gati Kintetsu Express Private Limited in Raxaul, to take delivery of the fake currency and was arrested. He was awarded 20 years RI with a fine of 50,000 on July 18, 2022.

During investigations, Ali Akhtar Ansari disclosed that the seized currency notes were fake and were smuggled from a foreign country into India.

He further revealed that the consignment was assigned to be delivered to Nabi Mohammad of Nepal through him.

Investigations further revealed that Syed Muhammad Shaffi, a Pakistan national residing in UAE, had couriered the parcel containing the fake currency from UAE through ICS (International Courier Service) to the arrested accused. The consignment had been sourced from a foreign country through a complex network of FICN traffickers, NIA investigations showed, NIA added in the statement.

The case was initially registered by DRI, Muzaffarpur, Bihar on September 24, 2015 and re-registered by NIA on March 15, 2016.

Separate charge sheets were filed against the two accused, Mohammad Ali Akhtar Ansari and Abi Mohammad Ansari, on September 21, 2016 and October 14, 2017 respectively.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR Avinash Kumar Avinash, a senior correspondent, reports on crime, railways, defence and social sector, with specialisation in police, home department and other investigation agencies. ...view detail
Pune Prof A N Ramaprakash (L) and Prof Durgesh Tripathi, under whose leadership SUIT has been built at IUCAA in Pune. (KALPESH NUKTE/ HT PHOTO)

Come Saturday, September 2, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) will launch Aditya L1, its Sun mission, to study various activities taking place on and around the Sun. The Solar Ultraviolet Imaging Telescope (SUIT) is one of the payloads in this mission developed by a team of 50 scientists, researchers and research students from the Inter-University Centre for Astronomy and Astrophysics (IUCAA), Pune. Hindustan Times spoke with senior scientists from the SUIT team involved in the development of the telescope that was handed over to ISRO in June this year.

Recalling the 10-year journey, professor Durgesh Tripathi, principal investigator of SUIT at IUCAA Pune, said, In 2013, there was this announcement opportunity from ISRO about the Aditya L1 mission to study the Sun. So, along with professor A N Ramaprakash, principal investigator, Instrumentation and dean, Visitor Academics Programmes, IUCAA Pune, and other senior scientists, we wrote a proposal to ISRO after which it went through a number of reviews and was approved in 2015. We then started working on this project from 2016. After years of hard work, research and dedication, we delivered SUIT to ISRO in June 2023.

SUIT will be launched onboard Indias maiden Sun mission on September 2 and is one of the seven instruments of the mission. Through SUIT, scientists will be able to know the dynamics and complex processing occurring on the outer layers of the Sun.

The SUIT payload is very unique; it is going to inspect a wavelength range which has not been fully looked at from anywhere in the world. We found a niche area where this wavelength range has not been exploited completely; so, we planned for this telescope. It is going to look at 2000 Angstrom to 4000 Angstrom, so the beauty of this is that it will provide information on two fronts, one of which is the solar atmosphere or the lower and middle solar atmosphere. It will play an important role in how ozone forms, how oxygen forms, and how they dissociate, professor Tripathi said.

Also, we have these explosions happening all the time on the Sun and these are important because our life is so dependent on technology. These explosions create something called space weather hazard. So, we really need to understand when these explosions occur so that we can reduce their impact by switching off all the satellites for a while rather than letting them get burned, professor Tripathi said.

About the challenges faced by the IUCAA team in the development of SUIT, professor Ramaprakash said, The main challenge was to develop such a unique payload which can look at the Sun comprehensively at these wavelengths. Since contamination is a big challenge at such wavelengths, we had to carry out several experiments

The other challenge was to have an ultra-clean lab to conduct these experiments, in which payload had to be put together, tested and made to work properly. Such ultra-clean labs are not easily accessible, so we constructed a lab at ISRO where they provided us the space. It took us more than two years just to develop such a lab, professor Ramaprakash said.

The Sun is a very active star, so to study various processes and activities happening on the Sun means that the payload is not just taking images but also reacting to these activities. For this, intelligence has to be built into the payload; a decade has been spent in building such a payload, he said.

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Pune The examination department and administration of the SPPU have initiated an inquiry into the case after a video of the act went viral on social media last week. (HT PHOTO)

The Savitribai Phule Pune University (SPPU) administration on Tuesday suspended the employee, who was embroiled in a bribe scandal last week. The staffer, Sanjay Nevse, was caught red-handed while taking 3,000 bribe from a student to give out a marksheet. The examination department and administration of the SPPU have initiated an inquiry into the case after a video of the act went viral on social media last week.

Now, the strict action taken by the varsity has sent a strong signal to those who have been involved in looting students.

After the incident, Nevse claimed that he did not ask for money from the student, but the concerned students gave it to him.

Following the outcry, SPPU registrar Prafulla Pawar stated that the matter would be investigated, and legal action would be taken against the concerned.

In the aftermath of the event, many student organisations, including the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) brought up the issue of university staff taking money for mark sheets. The video showed the concerned staff returning the money taken from the student.

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Pune: The Hinjewadi police have arrested two persons for stealing construction material worth 10,800 from a Pune Metro site. According to the police, the accused identified as Bunty Suresh Navgire (23) and Swayam Vikas Kamble (18) were caught loading the stolen material in an autorickshaw at around 1.45 am on Sunday. The metro authorities handed over the duo to Hinjewadi police and an FIR was lodged on Monday. (REPRESENTATIVE PIC)

The metro authorities handed over the duo to Hinjewadi police and an FIR was lodged on Monday. The police invoked IPC Sections 379 and 34 against the accused. Currently, a metro line between Civil Metro Station and Hinjewadi is being constructed by the Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority (PMRDA) under the public-private partnership model.

Meanwhile, unknown persons had stolen around 114 items related to lift, including hardware, cabin boxes, materials related to door, railing and fastener, and testing material boxes worth 22,11,885 from Maharashtra Metro Rail Corporation Limiteds (Maha-Metro) Shivajinagar office in February 2023.

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Madhya Pradesh Public Service Commission will release MPPSE SET Answer Key 2023 in due course of time. The answer key of Madhya Pradesh State Eligibility Test can be downloaded from the official site of MPPSC at mppsc.mp.gov.in. MPPSC SET Answer Key 2023: How to download provisional answer key from mppsc.mp.gov.in

The written examination was conducted on August 27. The MP SET 2022 examination was held in single shift- from 12.00 noon to 3.05 pm. To download the answer key, candidates can follow the steps given below.

MPPSC SET Answer Key 2023: How to download provisional answer key

Visit the official site of MPPSC at mppsc.mp.gov.in.

Click on MPPSC SET Answer Key 2023 link available on the home page.

A new PDF file will open where candidates can check the answers.

Download the page and keep a hard copy of the same.

Along with the release of the answer key, the objection window will also open. The objection window will remain opened for 2-3 days and candidates have to raise objections against the answer key by paying a processing fee for each question.

Once the window for raising objection is closed, the Commission will check the answers and the objections and on the basis of that the final answer key and result will be declared. For more related details candidates can check the official site of MPPSC.

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Indian Coast Guard has invited applications for Assistant Commandant posts. Eligible candidates can apply online through the official site of Join Indian Coast Guard at joinindiancoastguard.cdac.in. This recruitment drive will fill up 46 posts in the organization. Indian Coast Guard to recruit 46 Assistant Commandant posts

The registration process will begin on September 1 and will end on September 15, 2023. Read below for eligibility, selection process and other details.

Vacancy Details

General Duty (GD): 25 posts

Tech: 20 posts

Law: 1 post

Eligibility Criteria

Candidates can check the educational qualification and age limit through the Detailed Notification available here.

Selection Process

The selection of Assistant Commandants is based on an all India order of merit which is based on the performance of candidates in various stages examination and the number of vacancies available for the post. Clearing of Stage I, II, III, IV and V is compulsory for recruitment in ICG. All candidates will be compulsorily subjected to biometric, photo identification and document verification during various stages of examination.

Examination Fees

The examination fees is 250/- for all candidates except SC/ST. The payment should be made through online mode by using net banking or by using Visa/Master/Maestro/RuPay/Credit/Debit Card/UPI. For more related details candidates can check the official site of Indian Coast Guard.

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Rock On! brought to life the world of rock music and friendship and as the film clocks 15 years of its release, actor Arjun Rampal gets nostalgic. He recalls what all went behind the scenes for the film and its various characters to come together. Wow, youre actually taking me 15 years back... I remember how learning to play the instruments and singing was one of the main criteria for the entire cast. While Farhan (Akhtar, co-actor) already played the guitar, Purab (Kohli, co-actor) learned the drums, and I had to learn the guitar. We truly became musicians in the process, gushes the 50-year-old. Arjun Rampal played the role of Joseph Mascarenhas in Rock On!

I was blown away by the script

Rampal, who played the role of Joseph Mascarenhas in the film, fondly recalls how he got selected for the role. I still remember the moment when Farhan and I first discussed the film. We had already done Don (which Farhan directed) together, and then we met at the launch of his magazine in Jodhpur, and he approached me with the idea of a script centered around a rock band. He believed Id be the perfect fit for one of the characters named Joe. He said hed have (director) get in touch with me. It was actually just a passing thing. But after reading the script he sent two days later, I was blown away. Joes character resonated with me deeply, and I immediately agreed to be a part of it, recounts the actor.

I was going to break my guitar on Gattu's head'

While Rampal was sold the moment he read the script, it wasnt an easy task for him to actually bag the role. He recalls a humorous incident with the director, whos fondly called Gattu in the industry. Gattu initially had doubts about my suitability for the role. He came home, saw me, and said, I dont know yaar, you have to be good looking to be Joe. I thought I was going to break my guitar on his head only, the 50-year-old laughs, and adds, I kind of gave him an impromptu audition then and there. I donned a moustache and shorts and we even did a couple of readings, after which he gave a nod. However, I dont think he was that convinced, because he had a different kind of image of Joe in his mind. But, when we went on the set and I did a scene. He came into the van and hugged me to say, You are my Joe. And that was the moment.

Single take scene

Among several memorable moments from the shooting days, Rampal points out this one particular scene which was shot in single take. Theres a scene where I come to sing Sinbad The Sailor, when my wife Debbie (Shahana Goswami) comes on the stage, and Farhan gives me a nudge on the shoulder and whispers in my ear that, Joe, Debbie is here, grocery bill lekar. I controlled myself from laughing, I gave her a look, and we had a moment. Its that one take, and thats the take which was used in the film, he tells us.

Friendship from them to now

One of the most quintessential elements of Rock On! was the camaraderie its cast members shared, and the actor says it extended beyond the screen, too. Reflecting on the enduring bond that were formed on set, he shares, Rock On! created a unique bond among us. To this day, we call each other by our character names. Farhan is still Adi to me, and Im Joe to him. Even after all these years, theres a strong emotional connection that we share.
Mahira Khan has opened up about her mental health struggle and being diagnosed with manic depression by a psychiatrist. The Pakistani actor said in a recent interview with FWhy Podcast that she learned to face her mental health struggles, especially after stepping into Bollywood with the Shah Rukh Khan-starrer Raees, and the 2017 incident, where pictures of her smoking with actor Ranbir Kapoor emerged online. Also read: Mahira Khan talks about Bollywood friends Mahira Khan worked in only one Bollywood film, Raees, alongside Shah Rukh Khan.

Mahira Khan on Raees backlash

She also talked about the 2016 Uri attack, after which Pakistani actors were banned from working in Bollywood. Mahira said, "I had finished the film (Raees) and everything was going fine and then suddenly this attack (Uri attack) happens. Politically everything gets messed. With India, it is always political. But the fact that it could get this messy! I was not scared, but I was threatened. Constant tweets, in fact, I would get calls, and very scary ones. The only thing I wanted was that 'Okay fine I can't go to India to promote it (Raees), but I hope it releases in my country because I knew people would rush to watch it as he (Shah Rukh Khan) is loved here (in Pakistan)."

Raees released in 2017, the same year the smoking pictures scandal with Ranbir Kapoor happened. Reflecting on that time, the actor revealed she dealt with immense backlash, calling it 'unexpected'.

Mahira said she was not able to sleep

Mahira said, "That (backlash) brought out the anxiety and depression hidden inside me. That was a hard time for me. I felt attacked. The constant backlash you are getting mean tweets, comments on their channels (Indian channels). That was a time my faith broke and I developed severe anxiety to the point that one day I had a panic attack and fainted. Thats the first time I went for therapy. But that didnt work out, as I went to several therapists... that year was rough... I couldnt sleep, my hands used to shake."

Mahira added she has been on antidepressants for the past 6-7 years. She said she tried leaving them in the middle but 'went into a very, very dark space and a dark whole'. Mahira also said that this is the first time she is opening up about the fact that she has been taking medication for so many years.

She said she has been 'in and out of hospitals trying to get help'. Mahira also said that everybody has ups and downs, 'bad times and happy times, but clinical depression is like any other mental illness or physical illness'.

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Hailey Bieber looked stunning in a red strapless minidress by Ermanno Scervino as she celebrated the launch of her new limited edition of Rhodes peptide lip treatment in strawberry glaze. Justin Bieber, and his wife Hailey Bieber. (Twitter)

The event was held at a Krispy Kreme store in New York City on Monday, where the guests enjoyed the delicious strawberry-glazed donuts that inspired her product.

Her husband Justin Bieber, however, did not seem to match her glamorous vibe.

The pop star, 29, showed up in a casual gray outfit with shorts and a jacket, along with yellow Crocs and a pink trucker hat worn backward.

The contrast between the couples looks was evident as they posed for photos at the event, which was attended by many social media influencers who dressed in pastel colors to match the theme of Haileys new collection.

Hailey, 26, is a model and a beauty entrepreneur who has collaborated with Rhode, a skincare brand, to create her own line of products. Her latest launch is a lip treatment that hydrates and plumps the lips with natural peptides and plant-based ingredients.

The product comes in a pink tube with a donut-shaped applicator and costs $16. It is available on Rhodes website and at select Krispy Kreme locations.

The 26-year-old American model promoted her new collection in the Big Apple on Monday, wearing different outfits showcasing her style and beauty.

She appeared on Good Morning America in a red Vivienne Westwood midi dress with matching accessories. Later, she changed into a white Marc Jacobs minidress and red Manolo Blahnik mules, keeping the same bag as before.

ALSO READ| McDonald's Japan teams up with Spy x Family for exclusive toys with select meals

Hailey has been married to Justin since 2018 and they often share their love for each other on social media. But, when it comes to fashion choices, it seems they sometimes have different tastes.

Maybe next time the sensational will dress up more for his wifes special occasion.
Former actor Namrata Shirodkar has said that she is proud of her son Gautam Ghattamaneni. Taking to Instagram on Monday, Namrata re-shared a post by the Mahesh Babu Foundation. She also re-posted a few pictures of Gautam. (Also Read | Happy birthday Mahesh Babu: Namrata Shirodkar, Sitara and Gautam wish actor) Namrata Shirodkar is proud of her son Gautam Ghattamaneni.

Gautam visits kids in hospital

In the pictures, Gautam was seen smiling at a child who opened a gift as he sat on the hospital bed. He was also seen interacting with a doctor.

Namrata shared a note

Namrata captioned the post, "So so proud of you my son!! (Black heart emoji)." The original note read, "#Repost @mbfoundationorgOne of @gautamghattamaneni's many visits to @rainbowchildrenshospitals. MB Foundation has been working collaboratively with Rainbow Hospitals to give these little children a second chance at life."

It also added, "Gautam, an integral part of our foundation, often spends quality time post school with children in the oncology and cardio wards, making them feel happy in more ways than one while they heal. We thank you, GG, for bringing smiles to the faces of these kids and pushing them towards a faster road to recovery."

Fans react to Gautam's gesture

Reacting to the post, Namrata's sister Shilpa Shirodkar posted red heart emojis. A fan wrote, "Like father like son." A comment read, "What a kind soul. Bless him." A person said, "Your beauty is beyond what words can tell. You are stardom." "Gautam is such a sweet kid. So young and kind," said an Instagram user.

About the Ghattamaneni family

Gautam is the son of Namrata and her husband-actor Mahesh Babu. He also has a sister Sitara Ghattamaneni. Namrata regularly shares pictures of her family members on Instagram.

Earlier this month they visited Scotland. Sharing a selfie with Mahesh, Gautam and Sitara, she wrote, "A journey through time!! Exploring #EdinburghCastle... and its intricate architecture!! #Scotland." In July, she shared a picture on Instagram of Mahesh, Gautam and Sitara smiling and posing for the camera. She captioned the post, "Making memories...#london."

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Nearly 150 people were hospitalised after eating food served at a wedding ceremony in Belagavi district of Karnataka, officials said on Tuesday. More than 50 people also with the same complaints got admitted at Chikkodi hospitals on Tuesday morning. (HT File)

According to the officials the wedding ceremony took place at Hirekodi village in Chikkodi.

The officials suspecting the food served to be adulterated, sent the food samples, including the water that was provided to test at the government laboratory at Belagavi and Bengaluru.

Chikkodi district health officer Dr SH Gadad said, About 150 people who ate food at the wedding ceremony fell ill with complaints of vomiting and Diarrhoea. As most among the infected were children and women the health department is attending them as an emergency case. All most all have recovered and a few have already been discharged from the hospital.

The food and water served at the wedding ceremony was sent to government laboratories at Belagavi and Bengaluru, based on its report further course of investigation will be conducted, he added.

After about two-hours of having the food on Monday, many started vomiting and were dehydrated. They were rushed to the local hospitals and nursing homes in Hirekodi and Chikkodi town. More than 50 people also with the same complaints got admitted at Chikkodi hospitals on Tuesday morning.

The health department has sent a medical team to the village where an emergency temporary clinic was set up at a government school where patients are being treated. Ambulances and additional medical teams have also been pressed to the village.

Doctors attending the patients said that about 90% of the infected were recovered, but have not been discharged as they are being kept under observation. Belagavi SP Sanjeev Patil said all the infected people are recovering and would be discharged from the hospitals on Wednesday
Two men were killed and six were injured in separate incidents in Manipur on Tuesday, shattering the brief lull in violence in the northeastern state where 157 people have died and another 50,000 displaced over nearly four months. At least 152 people have been killed and nearly 50,000 displaced in Manipur since May 3 (File photo)

These are the first deaths in the state in more than 10 days, after three village guards were killed by armed miscreants in Thawai Kuki village in Ukhrul on August 18.

Also Read | Manipur assembly passes resolution for peace; opposition says not aware

Police said that a gunfight erupted between security forces and armed men in a forested area near the district border of Bishnupur and Churachandpur.

A police officer aware of the details said 30-year-old Jangminlun Gangte died in Naranseina village in Bishnupur after a pompi gun (country made gun) he was carrying accidentally exploded.

The Indigenous Tribal Leader Forum (ITLF), an umbrella body of tribal groups, disputed this, saying Gangte was a village volunteer and was killed by Manipur Police commandos.

But the police officer cited above dismissed the allegation.

The pompi gun Gangte was using misfired, exploded in his hand, and he died on the spot, the officer said, seeking anonymity.

Also Read | No division of Manipur, in touch with Kuki MLAs: CM N Biren Singh

The second victim, Laibungjam Inao (27), was shot dead by unidentified armed men from a distance in an area close to Naranseina village. The second victim was shot dead by armed miscreants from a distance when he was climbing the hills, the officer cited above said.

In Naranseina, unidentified miscreants first opened fire at villagers around 6.30am, police said. While a 26-year-old farmer, Salam Jotin Singh, was injured in the firing, another villager, who was with him, escaped unhurt. Singh was admitted to Raj Medicity hospital in Imphal and is now in a stable condition, police said.

My husband had stepped out to spray fertilisers in our paddy field and was returning home when some people, who were hiding in the jungle near Khoirentak hill side (on Bishnupur-Churachandpur border), started firing. My husband said he heard 15-20 gunshots. One of the bullets hit him. He was rescued by his friend, who in-turn raised an alarm and alerted villagers, Singhs wife, Priya, said. Doctors told me my husband survived because the bullet did not hit any of his vital organs, she added.

A second police officer said a 40-year-old man, later identified as Tangtin Len, was caught with two guns and ammunition as security forces launched a search operation in the area.

Our forces are still engaged in intermittent firing in the jungle area in Khoirentak. Len was handed over to the police, the officer said late on Tuesday evening.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR Prawesh Lama Prawesh Lama covers crime, policing, and issues of security in Delhi. Raised in Darjeeling, educated in Mumbai, he also looks at special features on social welfare in the National Capital. ...view detail
A 26-year-old man sustained bullet injuries after armed persons fired at villagers in Manipurs Bishnupur district on Tuesday, officials aware of the matter said. Officials of the Assam Rifles and army are yet to reveal the identity of the person arrested. (Representative file image)

According to officials, the injured person was identified as Salam Jotin Singh and is a resident of Naransena village.

Singh was hit by bullets after the armed persons fired from the jungle located near Khoirentak Hill around 6:30am.

The man was working in the field outside his house when armed persons fired bullets from the jungle area. His condition is stable. Security forces are on the lookout for those involved in the jungle, said a police officer aware of the details.

Also Read: Manipur leader gets legal notice for remarks against Assam Rifles

Following the firing on Tuesday morning, security forces conducted searches in the Khoirentak Hill side after which one armed individual was arrested.

Officials of the Assam Rifles and army, who conducted the search operations, are yet to reveal the identity of the person arrested.

A senior officer, on condition of anonymity said the man was caught with two guns and a large cache of ammunition during the search operations after the firing incident.

Sporadic incidents of violence continue to be reported from the northeastern state.

On Sunday, at least five abandoned houses were burnt in New Lambulane locality of Imphal.

The same morning, unidentified men allegedly had snatched three weapons from security personnel guarding the residence of former health and family welfare director K Rajo.

Clashes in Manipur first broke out on May 3 in Churachandpur town after tribal groups called for protests against a proposed tweak to the states reservation matrix, granting scheduled tribe (ST) status to the Meitei community.

Violence quickly engulfed the state where ethnic fault lines run deep, displacing tens of thousands of people who fled burning homes and neighbourhoods into jungles, often across state borders.

At least 155 people have died so far in the violence and around 50,000 have been displaced from their homes.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR Prawesh Lama Prawesh Lama covers crime, policing, and issues of security in Delhi. Raised in Darjeeling, educated in Mumbai, he also looks at special features on social welfare in the National Capital. ...view detail
Allegations against four people, including two minors, of assaulting a 14-year-old Dalit boy and his grandmother in Karur district of Tamil Nadu could not be substantiated in the preliminary probe, a police officer said on Tuesday, requesting anonymity. The police, on August 26, arrested two college students and detained two minor boys (HT Archives)

The alleged incident took place on last Friday when the 14-year-old boy engaged in a verbal spat with a group of boys from another school and belonging to other backward classes (OBC) communities while travelling in the same bus.

It started as something playful, but escalated into a serious situation, the officer said.

Following the incident, the Dalit boy and his grandmother went to the village of the other boys involved in the bus incident. After they could not locate their homes, they complained about the incident to village elders.

Later, a group of six people went to the Dalit boys village where local residents rounded them up, confiscated their two-wheelers and sent them back.

There was no attack. There are no injuries on anyone, the officer added.

On Saturday, the police arrested two college students and detained two minors under the Scheduled Caste/Scheduled Tribe (Prevention of Atrocities) Act. While the children were let off on bail after they appeared before the juvenile justice board, the other two have been sent to 15-day judicial custody.

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China has officially released the 2023 edition of its standard map, which shows the state of Arunachal Pradesh and the Aksai Chin region as part of its territory, prompting a sharp reaction from the Congress. Chinese President Xi Jinping and India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Congress MP Manish Tewari on Tuesday advised the Narendra Modi government to introspect whether it would be appropriate to host Chinese President Xi Jinping at G20 Summit to be held in New Delhi next month.

The absurdity and preposterousness of the Chinese claim is evidenced by the history of the Sino-Indian border dispute...Today, the real issue between India and China is that they have transgressed along the Line of Actual Control at multiple points on a theatre level...Under those circumstances, the government should seriously introspect whether it would be in accordance with India's self-respect to befitting a person in Delhi - Xi Jinping - who is in illegal occupation of 2000 square kilometres of Indian territory," the Congress leader said.

Tewari added the illegal occupations needed to be vacated. the Chinese maps are preposterousnot in sync with the history of the Sino-India border dispute, China has no claim on Arunachal Pradesh he added.

Claims over Taiwan, South China sea too

The map released on Monday showed Arunachal Pradesh and Aksai Chin, which was occupied by China in the 1962 war, as part of its territory. It also claimed Taiwan and the disputed South China Sea.

China's fresh provocation comes just 10 days ahead of the multi-national G20 or Group of 20 nations' summit, being hosted by India this year. Several world leaders, including the United States President Joe Biden, France's Emmanuel Macron and Xi Jinping, will arrive in the national capital for the three-day event from September 8-10.

While India has repeatedly affirmed that the entire Aksai Chin (as per 1865 Johnson Line) and Arunachal Pradesh is its own territory; other nations in the region including Vietnam, the Philippines, Malaysia, Brunei and Taiwan have also objected to China's claims over the South China sea.

Earlier in April, Beijing had unilaterally renamed as many as 11 Indian locations, inviting strong objections from India.

The map's release also follows days after the recent Modi-Xi meeting on the sidelines of the 15th BRICS Summit in South Africa, where the two leaders had agreed to intensify efforts at expeditious disengagement and de-escalation at the LAC.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR Nisha Anand Trainee Content Producer at HT Digital. I read about feminism, late modern history, and globalisation of Korean music. ...view detail
Assam Rifles, which has been involved in restoring normalcy in ethnic violence-hit Manipur, has sent a legal notice to a Manipuri leader for his alleged remarks accusing the force of siding with Kuki militants during the clashes with Meiteis, officials aware of the matter said on Tuesday. Ethnic violence has since May 3 claimed over 150 lives in Manipur. (AFP)

A Shillong-based lawyer sent the notice on August 21 to Republican Party of India (A) national secretary Maheshwar Thaonaojam on behalf of Assam Rifless inspector general (south).

The Manipur Police have also filed a first information report (FIR) accusing the Assam Rifles of stopping them from pursuing militants.

The Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI), a collective of Imphals mostly Meitei civil society groups, has sought Assam Rifless removal from Manipur even as Kuki-Zo-Hmar lawmakers and tribal groups have requested the Union government against doing so saying the force was unbiased. Meitei women groups have held a series of protests against the force.

In the notice to Thaonaojam, Assam Rifles, which has also filed a sedition case against COCOMI for allegedly discouraging the return of weapons stolen from police armouries, said he made false and baseless allegations against the force at a meeting in Delhi titled Condolence of Meitei Martyrs.

It quoted him accusing the force of bias, helping militants, and involvement in the violence. The notice asked Thaonaojam to apologise in writing publicly or else face legal proceedings.

Thaonaojam said he received the notice and added he was only quoting villagers. The villagers said they suspect Assam Rifles of helping the militants because Kuki militants are using sophisticated weapons. I also saw videos of Assam Rifles stopping Manipur Police personnel from pursuing militants during an operation. An FIR was filed against Assam Rifles.

In the FIR, which came to light on August 8, the Manipur Police accused Assam Rifles of stopping them from pursuing militants across a buffer zone.

Assam Rifles maintained its troops were only following the buffer zone guidelines in place to restore normalcy.

The Kukis and other tribal groups live in hill districts while the Meiteis in the Imphal valley and plains. The central forces are posted in the buffer zones or areas adjoining the foothills to ensure that armed people from both the Kukis and Meitei sides do not cross them to launch attacks.

Central forces, including the Assam Rifles, have been directed against allowing even state police to cross the buffer zones without taking them along. The directive was issued against the backdrop of allegations of bias against the state police.

Thaonaojam referred to some viral videos of an Assam Rifles officer with a militant and said he was only raising questions as a concerned citizen. I will file my reply to the notice.

The army on August 8 said inimical elements have made desperate, repeated, and failed attempts to question the role, intent, and integrity of the central forces, especially Assam Rifles, working to save lives and restoration of peace. ...due to the complex nature of the situation on the ground in Manipur, occasional differences at tactical level do occur between various security forces. However, all such misunderstandings at the functional level are immediately addressed through the joint mechanism to synergize the efforts for restoration of peace and normalcy in Manipur, it said in a statement.

Ethnic violence between the dominant Metei and Kuki communities has since May 3 claimed over 150 lives and displaced close to 50,000 people.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR Prawesh Lama Prawesh Lama covers crime, policing, and issues of security in Delhi. Raised in Darjeeling, educated in Mumbai, he also looks at special features on social welfare in the National Capital. ...view detail
The possibility of an alliance between the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Telegu Desam Party (TDP) will depend on issues including whether their coming together will translate into a winning combination in Andhra Pradesh where the Yuvajana Sramika Rythu Congress Party (YSRCP) is in power, BJP leaders aware of the matter said. TDP leader and former chief minister Chandrababu Naidu. (HT PHOTO)

TDP leader and former chief minister Chandrababu Naidus two-day visit to Delhi from Monday has piqued curiosity about the possibility of an announcement about the alliance. Both sides declined to comment on the issue. BJP leaders said it was premature to announce whether the alliance would eventually take shape.

Naidus meeting with Union home minister Amit Shah in June stoked speculation that the two former allies could renew ties ahead of the 2024 general elections. On Monday, a person aware of the matter said Naidus visit was official as he apprised the Election Commission of India about the alleged bogus voters in Andhra Pradesh. Naidu also attended President Droupadi Murmus release of a commemorative coin to mark the former Andhra Pradesh chief minister and TDP founder NT Rama Raos centenary celebrations.

TDP walked out of the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance in 2018 saying the Union government was dragging its feet over granting Andhra Pradesh a special status.

There has been an attempt from the TDP to renew the partnership, but there are several factors that the BJP would be considering, the foremost being what the other party will bring to the table in terms of votes, said a state leader, speaking on condition of anonymity.

The leader said though the BJPs area of influence in the state is limited compared to the regional parties, its acceptance among the people is rising. There is a recognition of Prime Minister Narendra Modis popularity and the pro-people schemes of the central government. The BJP is increasingly being seen as an alternative [in the state].

In the 2019 polls, the BJP could not win any seats in the 175-member Andhra Pradesh assembly. Its vote share was 0.85%. The party did not win a single seat out of the 25 in the state in the Lok Sabha polls the same year.

The TDP won 23 assembly seats with a vote share of 39.17% in 2019. It managed to get just three Lok Sabha seats with a 40.19% vote share. The YSRCP won 151 assembly seats, bagging 49% of the votes. It also swept the Lok Sabha polls, winning 22 of the seats with a 49.89% vote share.

The leader quoted above said the state elections will be a fight for TDPs survival. ...the YSRCP has strengthened its hold in the state. That said, there is a section of people, who believe that the BJP, Jana Sena Party, and TDP will be a formidable combination.

The TDP has been wooing the BJP. But its leadership has indicated the BJPs closeness to the ruling YSRCP and chief minister Jagan Mohan Reddy has emerged as an impediment in formalising the alliance.

YSRCP has maintained friendly ties with the BJP, offering crucial support to key bills in Parliament. It voted against the no-confidence motion against the government in Lok Sabha besides supporting the passage of the Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi (Amendment) Bill this month.

A second BJP leader said the state election will be a tough contest with YSRCP having strengthened its position through welfarist policies and fulfilling the promises it made in its manifesto.

That in itself would be a major consideration for firming up the alliance as the TDP has not positioned itself as an alternative to YSRCP, nor has it been an effective opposition that has built on the anti-incumbency, said the first leader.

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LUCKNOW: Mayawatis Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) expelled former legislator Imran Masood from the party on Tuesday, days after the firebrand politician praised Congress leader Rahul Gandhi. Imran Masood is an influential Muslim leader from Saharanpur district in western Uttar Pradesh (Screengrab)

Masood, an influential Muslim leader from Saharanpur district in western Uttar Pradesh, on Sunday told reporters that it was good to have worked with Rahul Gandhi. He can understand the problems of even ordinary party workers, Masood said, a remark that was interpreted to signal that he may switch back to the Congress before the 2024 national elections.

Masood said if he really thrown out of the party because of his remarks on Sunday, it was a petty reason. I dont know why I was expelled. If I have been expelled because I praised Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi, then that is a petty reason, Masood said, according to news agency PTI.

BSP Saharanpur district unit president Janeshwar Prasad said the party ordered a probe after allegations emerged about Masood indulging in indiscipline and anti-party activities. Masood was expelled on the basis of the report. The party leadership had earlier warned him but there was no change in his working style, Prasad said.

In a statement, Prasad said Imran Masood had been inactive during the partys membership drive in western Uttar Pradesh. Masood, he added, had been putting pressure on the party to declare him the Lok Sabha candidate from Saharanpur despite his wife Saima Masoods defeat in the mayoral election in the Saharanpur municipal corporation. The party had made it clear to Masood that if his wife lost the mayors election, he shouldnt expect the Lok Sabha ticket.

Asked about his statement, Masood on Monday told HT: I committed a mistake by deserting the Congress before the 2022 assembly elections. Under pressure from my supporters, I left the Congress. Even after leaving the Congress. I have a good relationship with Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Vadra. I respect both the leaders.

Before the 2022 assembly elections, Masood defected from the Congress to the Samajwadi Party while his brother Noman Masood joined the BSP. Imran Masood joined the BSP after the 2022 assembly elections.
Lucknow: The Bahujan Samaj Party s decision to go it alone in assembly elections in Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh later this year has raised the question of whether the party will be kingmaker, spoiler, or simply an also-ran in the three states which will see a direct Congress-Bharatiya Janata Party contest. BSP chief Mayawati (File photo)

Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) chief Mayawati, who announced the decision on August 14, is focusing on the partys traditional support base of Dalit, tribal and Other Backward Class (OBC) voters.

Nixing speculation that the BSP may join the Congress-led Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) or the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA), Mayawati has maintained equidistance from the two national groupings. The BSP will emerge as the third front in four states (Telangana being the fourth state), said the partys national coordinator Akash Anand, Mayawatis nephew.

The BSP polled 4.03% votes and won six assembly seats in the 2018 Rajasthan assembly election. In Madhya Pradesh, it polled 5.01% votes and won two seats. In Chhattisgarh, it polled 3.87% votes and won two seats. In Rajasthan, despite Mayawati offering to support the Congress, the latter engineered the defections of all six winning candidates from the BSP.

Across all three states, the BSPs share has been in the 4%-7.5% band for the past two decades, analysts say.

Ahead of the elections, Mayawati has said that her party would take a call on joining the government after upcoming the elections in Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh and Telangana to emerge as a balance of power.

It isnt clear whether that will help it regain lost ground among voters who claim that although the BSP received support from Dalits and tribals, it failed to protect their rights as its winning candidates defected to join either the Congress or the BJP, whichever formed the government.

The BSP has released its first list of nine candidates for the Chhattisgarh assembly election. Its two sitting MLAs have been fielded again. It contested the 2018 assembly election in alliance with Janata Congress Chattisgarh (JCC) led by former chief minister Ajit Jogi. While JCC fielded candidates for 55 seats, the BSP contested 35 seats. The alliance won seven seats; the Congress formed the government after a landslide victory.

The BSP will have to mobilise its resources in Chhattisgarh to retain the seats it won in the 2018 assembly election, said Gautam Upadhyay, a political analyst

Since 2003, there has been a decline in its vote percentage. It polled 6.94% votes in 2003, 6.12% in 2008 and 4.29% in 2013. The vote share further declined to 3.9% in 2018. The BSP has won at most two seats in the state that was once the karma bhoomi of its founder Kanshi Ram who contested the 1984 Lok Sabha election from the Janjgir seat, he added.

The BSP has a strong base in the Chhattisgarh districts bordering Uttar Pradesh, including Surajpur, Korba, Bilaspur, Sarguja, Janjgir and Raigarh. After Ajit Jogis death in May 2020, the JCC has been on a decline and the BSP hopes to get its votes too. The BSP is also eyeing reserved seats. Out of 90 assembly seats in Chhattisgarh, 29 are reserved for Scheduled Tribes and 10 for the Scheduled Castes, Upadhyay said.

In Madhya Pradesh, the BSP is working to regain its base in its stronghold -- the Bundelkhand and Vindhyan (Rewa- Satna) region bordering Uttar Pradesh as well as in the Gwalior-Chambal region. It has released the first list of seven candidates. In both the 1993 and 1998 assembly elections, the BSP won 11 seats but its performance has since waned.

In the 2003 assembly election, it polled 7.26% votes and won two seats. In 2008, when the BSP was in power in Uttar Pradesh, the partys vote share in Madhya increased to 8.97% and it won seven seats. In 2013, it polled 6.29% votes and won four seats. In the 2018 assembly election, its vote share declined to 5.01% with a tally of two seats.

A weak and directionless leadership is the main reason for the BSPs decline in Madhya Pradesh, said political analyst Roli Shivhare.

After the 2019 Lok Sabha election, the BSP leadership removed DP Chaudhary as state president and appointed Ramakant Pippal. The BSP has also opened its doors to defectors from the BJP and the Congress. Recently, senior BJP leaders in Rewa, Satna and Gwalior area joined the BSP. The increase in the activities of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) have added to the BSPs worries. Puran Singh Ahirwar, a close aide of Kanshi Ram joined AAP, Shivhare added.

Bahujan Samaj Party Rajya Sabha member Ramji Gautam said, The party has decided to field candidates on all the 230 seats. The focus will be on reserved seats, 47 for STs and 35 for SCs, he said.

In Rajasthan, the BSP launched the Sarvajan Hitay-Sarvajan Sukhaye Sankalp Yatra from Dholpur to the state capital Jaipur to mobilise party cadres for the assembly election. Led by BSP national coordinator Akash Anand, the yatra is targeting the Congress government . BSP leaders are also reminding the voters how the Congress engineered a defection of its lawmakers, despite Mayawati announcing unconditional support to the Congress after 2018 assembly election.

The BSP released the first list of three candidates making it clear that it will not open its door to the six rebels that defected. State unit president Bhagwan Singh Baba said the party will field candidates in all 200 assembly seats.

People are angry with the Congress government while infighting among BJP leaders will definitely give an edge to the BSP. The BSP is emerging as the third front in state politics. There are 34 SC reserved seats in the state, he added.

The BSP opened its account in Rajasthan in the 1998 assembly election, when it polled 2.17% votes and won two seats.

In the 2003 assembly election, the BSP polled 3.97% votes and again won two seats. In the 2008 assembly election, the BSP increased its vote share to 7.60% and won six seats. In the 2013 assembly election, its vote share declined to 3.37% and it won three seats.

Political analyst Deep Singh Shekhawat said the BSP enjoys support in districts in the east and central regions of the state, including Bharatpur, Dholpur, Dausa, Karauli, Alwar, Jhunjhunu and Nagaur.

If the BSP wants to strengthen its position as the third front, then it should form an alliance with small political parties. The Azad Samaj Party (ASP) led by Chandrashekhar Azad is also emerging as a formidable challenge to the BSP in the Dalit-dominated areas. The ASP is working to contest the 2023 assembly election in alliance with small political parties.

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New Delhi: California moved one step closer to becoming the first American state to ban caste-based discrimination after a bill that adds caste as a protected category cleared a crucial hurdle in the state assembly on Monday. Californias first Muslim female state senator, Aisha Wahab speaks during an event at the state Capitol. (Shutterstock)

Senate Bill 403  which will add caste as an explicit category for anti-discrimination action in the states civil rights, education, and housing codes  passed by a margin of 50-3, marking the first time an American legislature has considered and cleared an anti-caste legislation. It will now move to the Senate for a final concurrence vote before heading to governor Gavin Newsoms desk for his signature  the final hurdle.

Thank you to all the assembly members who voted in support of SB 403 today. We are protecting people from a long-standing form of discrimination with SB 403, state senator Aisha Wahab, who introduced the bill in the California House, said.

The development is the latest in a string of moves that has put in the spotlight the presence of caste among the South Asian population in the US, with a significant group of activists saying that birth-based biases continue to dog the diaspora. The battleground for several of these cases  especially the ones involving tech workers  has been California, which is Americas most populous state with 39.2 million residents, of which nearly a million are Indian-American.

The assembly vote is a win for the ages. After conducting over 700 advocacy meetings across California, the people have spoken resoundingly for caste equity protections, said Thenmozhi Soundarajan, the founder and executive director of Equality Labs, an anti-caste advocacy group.

As a Californian who has endured caste my whole life, I know the struggles and adversity caste-oppressed Californians have unjustly faced firsthand. Caste-oppressed people have organised for over 20 years so we could have lives free from violent attacks and discrimination, she added.

The assembly vote also came months after Seattle became the first American city to explicitly ban caste-based bias in employment, housing, public transport and retail establishments, among others. In December 2019, Brandeis University became the first US institution to include caste in its non-discrimination policy, and was followed by the California State University System, Harvard University, Brown University and the University of California, Davis.

But the bill has also opened deep rifts within the Indian-American community with groups such as the Hindu American Foundation (HAF) opposing such moves.

Today is a sad day. California has reawakened its racist past in passing legislation that demonises and targets South Asians and Hindus. Fifty California legislators chose to side with anti-Hindu hate groups rather than showing moral courage and upholding the Constitution, said Suhag Shukla, the executive director of HAF.

Advocates of the bill defended its purpose.

Despite what opponents of this bill suggest, SB 403 seeks to build a better, more improved, and more peaceful California for everyone. This bill does not, nor will it ever target Hindus or any specific faith. Rather, it provides protections for all, said Maya Kamble of the Ambedkar Association of North America.

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It has been exactly a week since the Chandrayaan-3 mission's rover 'Pragyan' soft landed on the south pole of the Moon. On Monday, the Indian Space Research Organisation said Pragyan was commanded to retrace its path after it came across a crater just metres ahead of its location on the lunar surface. A crater that the Chandrayaan-3 Rover Pragyan encountered on August 27, 2023 (ISRO/Twitter)

With less than 10 days remaining for the completion of one lunar day, Space Applications Centre (SAC) director Nilesh M Desai on Sunday said the Chandrayaan-3's Pragyan is in a race against time and that the ISRO scientists are working to cover a maximum distance of the uncharted south pole through the six-wheeled rover.

What ISRO's Chandrayaan-3 found over the last 7 days:

1. August 23: Just hours after the soft landing on the lunar surface, the ISRO shared first the image captured by Vikram's camera It shows a portion of Chandrayaan-3's landing site. Seen also is a leg and its accompanying shadow. Chandrayaan-3 chose a relatively flat region on the lunar surface, it said on X (formally Twitter). The ISRO also said a communication link was established between the lander and the space agency's Mission Operations Complex (MOX) in Bengaluru. The MOX is located at the ISRO Telemetry, Tracking and Command Network (ISTRAC). The ISRO also released images from the Lander Horizontal Velocity Camera taken during the descent to the Moon's surface.

2. August 24: In the morning, the Indian space agency informed that "India took a walk on the moon", as Chandrayaan-3's robotic rover rolled out of the lander and commenced mobility operations with all activities on schedule and all systems normal. It also said all the Lander Module(LM) payloads have been turned on. "All activities are on schedule. All systems are normal. Lander Module payloads ILSA, RAMBHA and ChaSTE are turned ON today. Rover mobility operations have commenced. SHAPE payload on the Propulsion Module was turned ON on Sunday," it said in a post on X while giving an update in the same evening.

3. August 25: A video of the Pragyan rover rolling out of the Chandrayaan-3 Vikram lander and walking on the lunar surface was released by the ISRO. The ISRO released another video of how a two-segment ramp facilitated the roll-down of the Pragyan. It said a solar panel enabled the rover to generate power. The video also showed how the rapid deployment of the ramp and solar panel took place, prior to the rolldown of the rover.

4. In the same evening, the ISRO updated that the Chandrayaan-3 mission's Pragyan rover has traversed a distance of about eight metres on the lunar surface, and its payloads have been turned on. All payloads on the propulsion module, lander module, and rover are performing nominally, the Bengaluru-headquartered national space agency said.

5. August 26: The ISRO said two of the three Chandrayaan-3 mission objectives have been achieved while the third -- in-situ scientific experiments -- is underway. It also said all the payloads of the mission are performing normally. Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the decision to name the spot where Vikram lander made the soft landing as Shiv Shakti Point and the site where the Chandrayaan-2 lander crash-landed on the Moon's surface in 2019 would be known as Tiranga Point. Also, August 23, the day the Chandrayaan-3 lander touched down on the lunar surface, would be celebrated as National Space Day, Modi said.

6. August 27: The ISRO released a graph of the temperature variation on the lunar surface and a senior scientist of the space agency expressed surprise over the high temperature recorded on the Moon. The national space agency said Chandra's Surface Thermophysical Experiment (ChaSTE) payload onboard Chandrayaan-3's Vikram lander measured the temperature profile of the lunar topsoil around the pole to understand the thermal behaviour of the Moon's surface.

7. August 28: The space research organisation announced that it will launch the Aditya-L1 Solar Mission, the first space-based Indian observatory to study the Sun on September 2, 2023. The launch of the solar mission will take place on September 2, 2023, at 11:50 am from Sriharikota.

8. August 28: The Bengaluru-headquartered national space agency said Pragyan is now safely heading on a new path. The ISRO said on August 27 the rover came across a four-metre diameter crater which was three metres ahead of its location. "The rover was commanded to retrace the path," it added, following which it is headed on a new path.

(With inputs from agencies)

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR Aniruddha Dhar Have 11 years' experience in print and digital media. Write on politics, defence and world affairs, and have a keen eye for human-interest stories. ...view detail
RAIPUR: Chhattisgarh chief minister Bhupesh Baghel on Tuesday wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to demand that the Centre conduct the decadal census and that this should have a separate column to collect data about people from the Other Backward Classes (OBCs). Chhattisgarh chief minister Bhupesh Baghel recalled that he had sought 27% reservation for OBCs in April this year (PTI)

Baghel recalled that he had sought 27% reservation for Chhattisgarhs OBCs and requested the law on this issue be included in the ninth schedule of the Constitution.

I am sure you will agree that it is necessary to provide reservation to the large population of OBCs, who have been deprived of socio-political rights for centuries. This decision is necessary to keep up the spirit of equality and social justice provided by the constitution, the chief minister said in his letter to PM Modi.

Baghel referred to Chhattisgarh Public Service (Scheduled Caste, Scheduled Tribes and Other Backward Classes Reservation) Amendment Act and an amendment bill related to admission in educational institutions that were passed by the assembly during a special session in December last year but were stuck in Raj Bhavan.

The legislation proposed to hike OBC quota to 27% from the present 14% and the SC quota to 13% from 12%, in line with the population of these two communities. It also proposed 4% reservation to the Economically Weaker Section (EWS), taking the total extent of reservation in the state to 76%.

Baghel said that denying constitutional rights to this major part of the population would inevitably upset them.

It is beyond comprehension that despite all the efforts of the state government, people belonging to other backward classes are not being provided the benefit of 27% reservation, Baghel said.

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Chhattisgarh chief minister Bhupesh Baghel on Tuesday urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to get the Census conducted while setting a separate column for the other backward classes (OBCs). Chhattisgarh chief minister Bhupesh Baghel. (ANI)

In a letter to the prime minister on Tuesday, Baghel said that necessary initiatives and decisions should be taken at the earliest on the important and sensitive issue of reservation for OBCs.

In April 2023, I had requested for the benefit of 27% reservation for other backward classes (OBCs) of Chhattisgarh and to include this subject in the Ninth Schedule of the Constitution. I am sure you will agree that it is necessary to provide reservation to the larger population of OBCs, who have been deprived of socio-political rights for centuries. Such a decision is necessary to keep up the spirit of equality and social justice provided by the Constitution, Baghel said in the letter.

Legislations included in the Ninth Schedule of Constitution are exempted from judicial review.

Baghel further said that the state assembly in December last year unanimously passed a bill to implement 32%, 13%, 27% and 4% reservations for those from the Scheduled Tribes (ST), Scheduled Castes (SC), OBCs and Economically Weaker Sections (EWS), respectively. However, the bill is still pending for approval in the Raj Bhavan, he added.

Baghel said that denying constitutional rights to this major part of population will inevitably upset them. It is beyond comprehension that despite all the efforts of the state government, people belonging to OBCs are not being provided the benefit of 27% reservation, he added in the letter.

Baghel urged the Union government to conduct the census with a separate column for OBCs to provide justice to people belonging to the community. The last census was held in 2011.

To be sure, the last census that officially collected overall caste data was held in 1931. Held once a decade, the census does not record any caste data other than for those listed as SCs.

The demand for a caste-based survey has gained momentum across the country, particularly by a number of opposition parties, including the Congress, hoping that an enumeration of castes will be a game-changer in reversing the Bharatiya Janata Partys deep inroads into the backward groups, and countering religious polarisation.

Chhattisgarh will go to assembly elections later this year.

Baghel also requested the prime minister to shift the headquarters of National Mineral Development Corporation (NMDC) from Hyderabad to Jagdalpur (Chhattisgarh).

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China has ramped up the construction of reinforced personnel bunkers and underground facilities in Aksai Chin, at a location about 70km from the Line of Actual Control (LAC), to better protect its military assets from aerial or missile strikes, according to an analysis of satellite imagery. The satellite imagery from August 18 clearly depicts the evolving Chinese posture in Aksai Chin, include the development of underground facilities. (Photo:Satellite image 2023 Maxar Technologies)

Indian officials declined to comment on the analysis. During an informal conversation on the margins of the Brics Summit in Johannesburg last week, Prime Minister Narendra Modi told Chinese President Xi Jinping that maintaining peace and tranquillity in border areas and respecting the LAC are essential for normalising bilateral relations.

Using satellite imagery, HT reported in May that China has expanded crucial airbases all along the LAC by building new runways, hardened shelters to protect jets, and new support and military operations buildings. This created capabilities for its military to conduct a wider range of operations and to counter Indias comparative advantages in some areas.

Air Vice Marshal (retired) Manmohan Bahadur, an aviator who served extensively in the Ladakh region, concurred that the underground facilities were not for troops. Tunnels are purely for equipment that is sensitive. These underground facilities appear to be for explosives, missiles or armament that would be destroyed by an aerial weapon, he said.

He added, This strategic move continues to highlight Chinas intent to solidify a permanent foothold in Aksai Chin, coupled with their efforts to develop their depth areas to swiftly offer support and reinforcement to frontline troops. This shift in Chinas strategic approach brings to light the evolving dynamics of the LAC, which are gradually resembling the heightened militarisation observed along the Line of Control (LoC).

The reinforced personnel bunkers have earth raised around them to provide additional protection from aerial or missile attacks and entry and exit points designed in a forked manner to dissipate the impact of bombardment.

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An analysis of satellite imagery from Aksai Chin, a region that India has for long accused China of occupying illegally, shows the Chinese side has ramped up the construction of reinforced bunkers and underground facilities to better protect military assets from aerial or missile strikes. Areas where China has scaled up underground construction activities. (Satellite image 2023 Maxar Technologies)

The development comes at a time when Beijing has released the 2023 edition of its so-called standard map of China depicting Aksai Chin and Arunachal Pradesh as part of the countrys territory. The map was issued by Chinas natural resources ministry on Monday as part of the annual National Surveying and Mapping Promotion Day.

A comparison of satellite images from December 2021 and August this year  provided to Hindustan Times by Maxar Technologies  shows the Chinese side has built reinforced bunkers and underground facilities at six locations within an area of roughly 15 sq km in Aksai Chin.

This area is located about 70km from the Line of Actual Control (LAC) and while troops were deployed in the region following the start of the standoff in May 2020, most of the land was barren and with few signs of construction activity, apart from some overground facilities to host equipment.

However, the latest images from August 2023 show considerable construction activity, including the presence of earth-moving machinery, new roads and multiple entrances for underground facilities.

Analysts believe the underground facilities are meant to protect sensitive equipment, ammunition and command posts from air or missile strikes during potential hostilities. Indian officials declined to comment for the analysis.

The new map issued on Monday shows Aksai Chin, which China occupied during the 1962 war, and Arunachal Pradesh, which Beijing claims as south Tibet, within the countrys borders. The map also incorporates Taiwan, which China claims is part of its territory, and a large swathe of the South China Sea, where the Chinese side is involved in multiple territorial disputes.

The map follows Chinas move to rename 11 locations within Arunachal Pradesh in April. This was the third time in recent years that China has renamed locations in the northeastern state, and the latest effort was seen as a response to India holding a G20-related event in Itanagar, the capital of Arunachal Pradesh, in March. China had skipped the meeting in Itanagar.

External affairs minister S Jaishankar dismissed the new Chinese map as part of absurd claims and said the Indian side is very clear about the issue. China has even in the past put out maps which claimed the territories which are not Chinas, which belong to other countries. This is an old habit of theirs. It is not something new, it started in the 1950s, he said at an event organised by NDTV news channel.

Just by putting out a map claiming territories, some of which are part of India, I think it doesnt make that. These are very much part of India. We are very clear what our territories are, this government is very clear about what we need to defend our territories...Just making absurd claims doesnt make other peoples territory yours, he added.

External affairs ministry spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said India lodged a strong protest through diplomatic channels with the Chinese side on the so-called standard map on Tuesday. We reject these claims as they have no basis. Such steps by the Chinese side only complicate the resolution of the boundary question, he added.

According to information provided by the government in Parliament, Indian territory in Jammu and Kashmir under the occupation of China is about 38,000 sq km. In addition, under the so-called China-Pakistan Boundary Agreement of March 1963, Pakistan illegally ceded 5,180 sq km of Indian territory in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir to China.

Air Vice Marshal (retired) Anil Golani, the additional director general at the Centre for Air Power Studies, said the Indian side is seized of Chinas efforts to build infrastructure along the LAC. There is work going on from our side [to match it] and the pace has hastened, he said.

The Chinese system is different but we are more prepared than we were a couple of years ago, Golani said.

The military standoff on the LAC, which began in May 2020, and a brutal clash at Galwan Valley that killed 20 Indian soldiers and at least four Chinese troops has taken bilateral relations to a six-decade low. During his recent conversation with Xi, Modi also highlighted Indias concerns on the unresolved issues in Ladakh sector of LAC.

While the Indian side said the two leaders had agreed to direct their officials to intensify efforts at expeditious disengagement and de-escalation, a readout subsequently issued by Chinas foreign ministry made no reference to this matter. The readout only quoted Xi as saying that the two sides should bear in mind the overall interests of their bilateral relations and handle properly the border issue.

The border standoff has also cast a shadow on India and Chinas engagements at multilateral platforms. Xi is expected to travel to India to participate in the G20 Summit during September 9-10. People familiar with the matter have said China has opposed several of Indias initiatives related to climate change and women-led development at G20 meetings, while backing Russia on not including any reference to the Ukraine crisis in outcome documents.

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The Congress party will release its first list of candidates contesting the upcoming Telangana assembly elections in the first week of September, people familiar with the matter said on Tuesday. A report would be prepared at the next meeting of the Congresss state election committee, scheduled to be held on September 2, at Gandhi Bhavan. (HT Photo)

The Pradesh Election Committee (PEC), headed by Pradesh Congress Committee (PCC) president A Revanth Reddy, met at Gandhi Bhavan in Hyderabad on Tuesday evening to scrutinise the applications received from aspiring candidates to contest for the assembly elections.

PCC working president Mahesh Kumar Goud told reporters, after the meeting, that the party had received 1,016 applications for 119 assembly seats in the state by August 25, which was the last date to apply for the candidature.

While Yellandu assembly constituency in Khammam district received the maximum number of 38 applications, Kodangal and Jagitial assembly constituencies received only one application each, he said.

Goud said the PEC had scrutinised the credentials of all the applicants. We have taken various factors into consideration such as the candidates association with the Congress, their date of joining the party, date of application, their participation in various party activities and programmes taken up against the government, etc, to decide on their eligibility for the party ticket, he added.

After a comprehensive scrutiny of the applications, a report would be prepared at the next meeting of the PEC, scheduled to be held on September 2, at Gandhi Bhavan. The report would be placed before the AICC [All India Congress Committee] screening committee comprising chairman K Muralidharan and members Baba Siddique and Jignesh Mevani, on September 4, the PCC working president said.

The committee members would hold meetings with all sections of the party, including the aspiring candidates for three days, before finalising the candidates and sending them to the high command for final approval, Goud said.

The PEC has decided that the first list would comprise of candidates belonging to Schedule Caste, Schedule Tribe and Other Backward Classes (OBC) communities. We shall release the list of candidates well in advance so that the party would go into the campaigning mode at the earliest, the PCC leader said.

PEC member and Bhongir MP Komatireddy Venkat Reddy, who had applied for contesting the assembly elections from Nalgonda, said he was ready to sacrifice his seat if the party decides to field any OBC candidate from the constituency. If necessary, I shall contest for the MLC elections or Lok Sabha elections later, if there is an efficient OBC candidate for Nalgonda, he said.

A senior Congress leader familiar with the development said the first list may comprise of 35-40 candidates for those seats where there is not much competition from serious contenders. In other constituencies, after a thorough scrutiny, three names for each seat would be shortlisted and referred to the high command for clearance.

The leader said the party is hoping that some strong candidates from the Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS), who could not make it to the list announced by K Chandrashekar Rao on August 21, are expected to defect to the Congress soon. Similarly, some contenders from the Bharatiya Janata Party [BJP] also might jump into the Congress. They are in touch with the PCC leadership. If they switch over to the Congress, they may have to be accommodated in the list in the last moment, though they have not applied for the Congress tickets. The screening committee will take all these issues into consideration before finalising the candidates, the Congress leader quoted above said.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR Srinivasa Rao Apparasu Srinivasa Rao is Senior Assistant Editor based out of Hyderabad covering developments in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana . He has over three decades of reporting experience. ...view detail
A September 5 bypoll in eastern Uttar Pradesh has turned into an electoral battle between the National Democratic Alliance and the newly formed Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) with only two major candidates in the fray and a high-voltage campaign being led by senior leaders from both sides. Dara Singh Chauhan (ANI)

The Ghosi constituency in UPs Mau district was vacated by former state minister Dara Singh Chauhan, who won the seat on a Samajwadi Party (SP) ticket in 2022 but quit the party last month and joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

Chauhan  an other backward classes (OBC) leader who initially quit the BJP months before the 2022 assembly elections returned to the BJP fold  is also backed by NDA constituents Suheldev Bharatiya Samaj Party (SBSP), NISHAD party and Apna Dal (Sonelal)

Also Read | Ghosi by-poll campaign: Mauryas cobra remark draws swift retort from SP

Facing him is the SPs Sudhakar Singh, backed by the Congress, the Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD), Communist Party of India, Communist Party of India-Marxist, Communist Party of India (Marxist Leninist), Apna Dal (K) and Janata Dal (United)  making him the de-facto INDIA group candidate. Singh is also supported by the Suheldev Swabhiman Party (SSP), a splinter group of the SBSP.

The third force in UP, the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP), has neither fielded a candidate nor extended its support to either aspirant.

SP chief Akhilesh Yadav displayed a show of strength by campaigning in Ghosi on Tuesday while chief minister Yogi Adityanath is likely to hit the ground on September 2.

The RLD, JD (U), and SSP are also campaigning for the SP candidate.

Our state president Ramashish Rai is leading the RLD campaign in Ghosi, said RLD national spokesperson Anil Dubey.

On the NDA side, it is Suheldev Bharatiya Samaj Party (SBSP), NISHAD party and Apna Dal (S). The SBSP is extensively campaigning for the BJP candidate.

Chauhan won the seat as an SP candidate in 2022 by 22,000 votes. In 2017, BJPs Phagu Chauhan won it by 7,000 votes. This time, the SP is trying to blame Chauhan for forcing the bypoll.

An elected lawmaker quitting to join another party is still okay but what people say isnt okay if the same leader having forced a bypoll now telling the voters to elect him by praising a party he was opposing all through.

If the polls are free and fair, the SP candidate would sail through easily, said SP national secretary Ram Asrey Vishwakarma.

While campaigning for the BJP candidate, the deputy chief minister and BJP leader Brajesh Pathak said: The SP candidate is going to forfeit his deposit and the BJP will have a landslide victory.

The SP and allies are also dubbing Chauhan an outsider to Ghosi and Sudhakar Singh a native.

Singh is a two-time lawmaker, who last won the Ghosi seat in 2012. Before 2022, Chauhan had never contested from the seat.

Out of the 440,000 voters, 150,000 are OBCs. They include 60,000 Rajbhars, 40,000 Chauhans and 40,000 Yadavs.

The second biggest group of voters is Muslims, who number roughly 90,000. There are also a sizable number of Dalits (roughly 60,000). The constituency has around 77,000 upper-caste Hindus -- 45,000 Bhumihars, 16,000 Rajputs and 6,000 Brahmins.

As the SP has fielded Singh, a Rajput, it is attempting to attract backwards, Dalits and Muslims to its social coalition.

As the BSP is not contesting and the Congress is supporting the SP candidate, Singh is confident of getting the Muslim support, and has roped in controversial former legislator Mukhtar Ansaris family into the campaign.

The swing vote might be from the Dalit communities. With the BSP not in the fray, both sides are vying for the support of the Dalits.

Calling the election, one that will create history, former CM Akhilesh Yadav during a rally in Ghosi said, I thank all the parties which are supporting the SP in this by-election. This decision of all parties will bring a big change in the politics of the country. This election will create history. It message will go to the entire country. The India alliance is united. The BJP is nervous from the unity of the alliance.

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The G20 Summit, which is scheduled to be held in New Delhi on September 9 and 10, will be attended by several world leaders, who are a part of the grouping. This year will be the 18th G20 Summit and India's first in terms of presidency. Preparations for the upcoming G20 Summit in the national capital are in full swing. (PTI)

The theme of this year's G20 is Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam or One Earth, One Family, One Future.

Preparations for the upcoming G20 Summit in the national capital are in full swing. In view of the event, all central government offices, banks and financial institutions in the national capital will be closed from September 8 to 10.

All educational institutions, and government and private offices across the city will remain shut during these three days, said the notification issued by the General Administration Department (GAD) of the Delhi government.

Founded in 1999, the Group of 20 (G20) comprises 19 countries: Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Republic of Korea, Mexico, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Turkey, UK and US, and the European Union.

Following are the world leaders who will be attending the summit:

United States: US President Joe Biden will travel to India from September 7-10 to attend the summit. Biden along with other G20 partners will discuss joint efforts to tackle global issues including clean energy transition and combating climate change, mitigating economic and social impacts of Ukraine war and increasing the capacity of multilateral development banks including the World Bank to better fight poverty, the White House said last week.

United Kingdom: Britain Prime Minister Rishi Sunak is set to attend the summit. As per reports, during his visit, Sunak will also discuss the UK-India trade negotiations in a separate bilateral meeting with Indias Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Republic of Korea: South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol will be attending the G20 Summit. South Korea's ambassador to India Chang Jae Bok said earlier this month, Our President is coming to the (G20) Summit which is being held on 9-10 September. We strongly support Indias G20 presidency this year and we hope that the Summit meeting in September will be the highlight and culmination of the G20 presidency efforts by the Indian Government.

France: French President Emmanuel Macron will be attending the G20 Summit. Live Mint reported that Macron will be staying at Claridges hotel in New Delhi.

China: Chinese President Xi Jinping will also attend the summit. Xi is likely to stay at Taj Hotel. Reports claimed that China is likely to bring 46 vehicles.

Canada: Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau also confirmed his attendance at the G20 Summit. I will be at the G20 in a week and we will continue to make sure that the world is standing with Ukraine" Trudeau said.

Australia: Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese will be attending the summit from September 9 to 10. "From September 9-10, the Prime Minister will attend the G20 Leaders' Summit in New Delhi," the Australian government had said in a statement in August.

Bangladesh: Bangladesh deputy high commissioner Andalib Elias on Monday said Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina will be attending the G20 Summit. Elias said, We are also hoping that there will also be a bilateral meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and PM Sheikh Hasina.

Russia: Russian President Vladimir Putin telephoned Prime Minister Narendra Modi to explain his decision not to attend next months G20 Summit in-person. Putin said Russia will be represented at the meeting by foreign minister Sergey Lavrov, according to a statement from the external affairs ministry.

Countries that have not confirmed their attendance are:

Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Turkey, Mexico, Japan, Italy, Germany, Indonesia, Brazil and Argentina.

At least 160 flights cancelled at Delhi airport

At least 160 domestic flights to and from Delhis Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport have been cancelled between September 8 and 10 owing to traffic restrictions in the Capital due to the upcoming G20 Summit, the airport operator said on Saturday.

Delhi International Airport Ltd (DIAL), which operates IGI Airport, said that it received requests from various airlines for cancellation of 80 departing and 80 arriving domestic flights during the three days in this connection. It, however, clarified that the cancellation is not due to paucity of parking space for aircraft.

There will be no impact on international flights, it added.

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The gig economy is often portrayed as the future of work in the Indian economy. While there is a lot of talk about start-ups in the space becoming unicorns (companies with a valuation of a billion US dollars or more) there are growing concerns about the physical and mental well-being of workers in the gig economy. The Rajasthan governments recent bill on gig workers has given this debate new traction.

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A 14-month-old baby, who was saved by a group of doctors from All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) New Delhi onboard a Bengaluru-Delhi Vistara flight on Sunday, is in a critical stage on a ventilator and on several live-saving drugs at a Nagpur hospital in Maharashtra. The five doctors of AIIMS Delhi who were travelling on the Bengaluru-Delhi Vistara flight.

"Late night on August 27, a critical medical situation arose involving an infant passenger a 14-month-old baby travelling on Flight No. UK814 of Vistara Airlines from Bangalore to Delhi. In a remarkable display of preparedness and professionalism, co-passengers from medical backgrounds on board promptly initiated life-saving measures by providing CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) to the baby passenger," said deputy general manager (communications) of Nagpur-based KIMS-Kingsway Hospitals Aejaz Shami in a statement.

Also Read: AIIMS doctors save girls life after her heart stops on flight

As the situation got critical, the airline team efficiently coordinated with Nagpur airport authorities for a emergency landing in Nagpur. KIMS-Kingsway Hospitals' ambulance was at service to ensure the seamless transfer of the Infant passenger to KIMS KINGSWAY Hospital, the statement added.

"At current, the patient is admitted under a Senior Consultant in Paediatrics and Neonatology, the patient is unconscious and in critical stage on ventilator and on several live-saving drugs. The parents and relatives are regularly counselled," said the statement.

What happened on the Bengaluru-Delhi Vistara flight?

1. On Sunday night, the group of five senior doctors of AIIMS was returning to Delhi after attending a medical event in Bengaluru. They were onboard the Vistara flight UK-814.

2. The flight crew made an announcement of a distress call before the aircraft was diverted to Nagpur. The distress call was regarding a two-year-old cyanotic female child, who was operated on for intracardiac repair and was unconscious and cyanosed.

3. The five doctors, including Navdeep Kaur- SR anesthesia, Damandeep Singh- SR cardiac radiology, Rishab Jain- ex-SR AIIMS radiology, Oishika- SR OBG and Avichala Taxak- SR cardiac radiology immediately examined the child and found that her pulse was absent, extremities were cold and she was not breathing with cyanosed lips and fingers.

4. Over the next 45 minutes, the doctors worked as a team, improvising medical equipment from whatever they could lay their hands on, and first revived, then saw her through two cardiac arrests, and finally ensured she kept breathing till the flight could make an emergency landing in Nagpur.

5. One of the doctors told HT that the child had a pre-existing heart condition so managing it on-air with limited resources was a major challenge.

6. He said the girl and her parents were returning from Bengaluru after her heart surgery for a congenital cardiac condition. The surgery was successfully conducted 21 days ago, but such post-surgery complications are not uncommon.

7. Even when the flight landed around 11.30pm at Nagpur, the doctors continued to assist the child, monitoring her vitals in an ambulance, till she could be handed over to a paediatrician from a nearby hospital.

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NEW DELHI: Goa Shipyard Ltd and Kenya Shipyard Ltd on Tuesday signed a memorandum of understanding for capacity building and collaboration in ship design and construction, with the development coming on a day defence minister Rajnath Singh and Kenyan cabinet secretary for defence Aden Bare Duale held talks in Delhi to boost defence cooperation. Rajnath Singh gifted 15 pairs of parachutes (main and reserve) manufactured by Gliders India Limited to Kenyas Aden Bare Duale for use by the Kenyan forces. (X/SpokespersonMoD)

Capacity building and defence industrial cooperation was discussed at length at the meeting, the defence ministry said in a statement.

The meeting was a testimony to the increasing depth in the India-Kenya defence partnership. Both ministers agreed that the defence relationship between the two countries has evolved from being training-centric to include more strategic aspects, it said.

Singh gifted 15 pairs of parachutes (main and reserve) manufactured by Gliders India Limited to Duale for use by the Kenyan forces.

The two ministers also agreed on the need for deeper cooperation in maritime security of the Indian Ocean region, the statement said.

Duale, who is on a three-day visit to India, appreciated the growing prowess of the Indian defence industry, including the private sector, and highlighted the areas in which the Indian industry can support the requirements of the Kenyan forces.

Both sides agreed to joint training in counter insurgency and UN peacekeeping domains. Other regional security issues of mutual interest were also discussed, the statement added.
The Centre has decided to provide an additional 75 lakh Ujjwala connections, raising the total Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana beneficiaries to 10.35 crores, announced Union Information and Broadcasting Minister Anurag Thakur on Tuesday after the Union cabinet meeting. Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana beneficiaries

Offering substantial relief to consumers, Thakur declared a price reduction of 200 per cylinder for domestic cooking gas. Currently priced at 1,103 for a 14.2-kg LPG cylinder in New Delhi, it will now cost 903 starting from Wednesday.

"For Ujjwala beneficiaries, the price will be 703 after considering the ongoing 200 per cylinder subsidy. Under Ujjwala connections, beneficiaries will receive free connections along with the first cylinder without any charge. PM Narendra Modi's significant offering to the women of the country on Onam and Raksha Bandhan. A 200 decrease in the cost of domestic LPG cylinders for all consumers. In 2014, only 14.5 crore citizens possessed domestic LPG connections. Today, that number has risen to 33 crore," noted Union Minister Anurag Thakur.

Thakur also disclosed that due to this supplementary subsidy, there could be an additional financial implication of 7,680 crore for the financial year 2023-24.

The Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY), initiated on May 1, 2016, by PM Modi in UP's Ballia, aims to provide cooking fuel such as LPG to rural households. The scheme's focus is on offering LPG connections to women from below the poverty line (BPL) households, SC/ST communities, beneficiaries of Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY), Antyoday Anna Yojana (AAY), forest dwellers, and other disadvantaged groups.

This will increase the total number of beneficiaries under PMUY from 9.6 crore to 10.35 crore, the government said in a statement.

"These decisions come as part of the government's ongoing efforts to ease the financial burden on citizens and promote the welfare of households. The reduction in cooking gas prices reflects the government's commitment to prioritise the well-being of its citizens and ensure access to essential commodities at reasonable rates," it said.

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The Bihar government is holding a caste-based counting and not a census in the state, chief minister Nitish Kumar said on Tuesday, a day after the Union government told the Supreme Court that only the Centre is empowered to carry out a census under the Constitution. Bihar chief minister Nitish Kumar. (PTI)

Kumar, a key constituent of the Opposition INDIA bloc, also said that the Lok Sabha elections next year are likely to be advanced because the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) fears it will suffer because of Opposition unity.

We are not doing a census. It was made clear at the outset. It is counting. While conducting a census, information is collected about people under the Scheduled Caste (SC), Scheduled Tribe (ST) and minorities. This is not just religion or caste-based counting; a lot of things are also being done with it, Kumar told reporters after inaugurating a newly-constructed building at Nalanda Open University.

We are collecting details about the economic condition of different groups, be it the upper caste, Other Backward Classes, Extremely Backward Classes, SCs, STs or minorities to plan for their development. We are doing it for the welfare of all, he added.

The Janata Dal (United) leader said the government is trying to work for the peoples well-being, but some had their reservations. But there is no meaning to such reservations. The survey part is over and once the data is processed, it will be published for a proper understanding, he said.

The survey to compile the socioeconomic data of each family in the state was held in two phases; the first round was conducted between January 7 and 21. The second round started on April 15, and was scheduled to continue till May 15, but halfway through the process, the Patna high court temporarily suspended the survey. The exercise resumed on August 2 after the high court gave its approval, and concluded on August 6.

A bunch of petitions in the top court have challenged the August 1 judgment of the high court that allowed the government to carry out the exercise. On August 18, the top court observed that it cannot restrain the Bihar government from publishing the cumulative data or findings of the caste survey unless there was a prima facie case to show violation of any constitutional right or lack of competence on the part of the state government.

On Monday, the Union government submitted in the top court that only the Centre is empowered under the Constitution to carry out a census. In a short affidavit filed through the ministry of home affairs, the Centre maintained that census is enumerated as a subject under entry 69 in the Union list of the seventh schedule of the Constitution.

Kumar targeted the Centre over the delay in the decadal census, saying it should have been completed in 2021. We have been saying for a long time that the same (caste count) should be done for others also but it was not done. It should have been done in 2021. So much time has elapsed, but the (decadal) census could not be started, he said.

The Janata Dal (United) attacked the Centre over its affidavit in the top court. What the Centre has said in its affidavit is nothing but reiteration of the petitioners in the Supreme Court... The sad part is that the stand of the petitioners and the Central government is the same  that census is in the Union list, parliamentary affairs minister Vijay Kumar Choudhary said.

Choudhary also alleged the Centres lack of clarity on the matter was reflected in the revision of the affidavit in the top court within a few hours of its submission.

There were two affidavits filed by the Centre on Monday. The first affidavit was a more direct opposition to Bihars exercise, asserting that only the Union government is entitled to carry out not only a census but also any action akin to census.

Hours later, another affidavit was filed to do away with the paragraph that disputed the authority of states to conduct any action akin to census.

They (the BJP) tried to get so many petitions filed to derail the (survey) process and when nothing worked, they are doing this (filing affidavits) in the top court, Choudhary said.

Senior BJP leader and Rajya Sabha MP Sushil Kumar Modi, however, said the caste survey was a decision made by the NDA government and the Centre had only reiterated that the census was the sole prerogative of the Union government.

The Bihar government has also categorically said in its affidavit in the high court that it is not carrying a census, but survey. If it is a survey, the Centre has not opposed it anywhere. The Grand Alliance leaders hoped the Centre would oppose the caste survey, but they are now upset as it has not happened. It has just presented the Constitutional point. The state government is free to hold survey to collect data, but cannot go in for a census, he said.

In his press conference, Kumar also said that the Lok Sabha elections next year are likely to be advanced as the BJP fears with time, it will suffer more loss because of Opposition unity.

I have been saying it for the last seven-eight months that the NDA government at the Centre might go for early Lok Sabha polls, fearing more loss to the BJP because of opposition unity, he said.

Therefore, all opposition parties must come together to defeat the BJP in the Lok Sabha polls. I am once again repeating that I have no desire for myself, I have no personal ambitions, he added.

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In a big relief to the households across India, the Narendra Modi government on Tuesday announced to slash the prices of cooking gas domestic cylinder by 200. Commercial LPG cylinders price was increased by  350.50 per unit and domestic LPG cylinders by  50 per unit (Representative Photo)

At present, a 14.2-kg LPG cylinder in the national capital costs 1,103 - more than double the rate it came for in May 2020. It will cost 903 effective Wednesday when the decision is implemented. For Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY) beneficiaries, the price will be 703 after considering the continuing 200 per cylinder subsidy.

Moreover, the government announced additional 75 lakh Ujjwala connections, which will take the total Ujjwala yojana beneficiaries to 10.35 crore. While Ujjwala beneficiaries are only 9.6 crore, there are some 31 crore domestic cooking gas users in the country.

While announcing the decisions after the cabinet meeting, union minister Anurag Thakur said that the decision of price reduction in cooking gas is a gift from PM Modi to the women of the country on Onam and Rakshabandhan.

Here's the list of cylinder prices effective Wednesday (source Goodreturns):

City Prices effective Wednesday (Rs/14.2 kg cylinder) New Delhi 903 Mumbai 902.5 Kolkata 929 Chennai 908.5 Bengaluru 905.5 Ahmedabad 910 Hyderabad 955 Patna 1,001 Bhopal 908.5 Jaipur 906.5 Lucknow 940.5

The government in June 2020 had stopped giving LPG subsidies. Cooking gas across the country was priced at market rate, which rose to 1,103 in the national capital.

India is dependent on imports for 60 per cent of its natural gas requirements.

To clear pending Ujjwala applications and to provide deposit-free LPG connections to all eligible households, the government will shortly start distribution of PMUY connections to 75 lacs women from poor households. This will increase the total number of beneficiaries under PMUY to 10.35 crore.
India on Tuesday lodged a strong protest with China on the latest map unveiled by the neighbouring country that claimed Arunachal Pradesh and Aksai Chin as its own territories. Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Arindam Bagchi.(ANI)

"We have today lodged a strong protest through diplomatic channels with the Chinese side on the so called 2023 standard map of China that lays claim to Indias territory. We reject these claims as they have no basis. Such steps by the Chinese side only complicate the resolution of the boundary question, the ministry of external affairs said in a statement.



ALSO READ: Old habit of theirs: Jaishankar on Chinese map showing Arunachal as its land

A massive controversy erupted after the People's Republic of China released the 2023 edition of its standard map, staking its claims over Arunachal Pradesh, Aksai Chin region, Taiwan and the South China Sea.

The map has been released despite India's repeated stand that Arunachal Pradesh has always been and continue to be an integral part of the country.

Chinese website Global Times in a post on social media platform X, formerly called Twitter, said that the standard map has been compiled based on the drawing method of the national boundaries of China and various countries in the world, the post said.

The map also incorporated China's claims over the estranged island of Taiwan and the nine-dash line claiming a large part of the South China Sea. Beijing has always claimed Taiwan as part of its mainland and its integration with the mainland is part of a vowed objective of Chinese President Xi Jinping.



China's latest provocation comes days ahead of the scheduled G20 meeting in New Delhi which will be attended by several world leaders including Chinese president Xi Jinping.



ALSO READ: PM Modi is in no mood to yield on border concerns with China



Last week, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had met Jinping briefly at the BRICS Summit in Johannesburg. The PM had highlighted India's concerns on the unresolved issues along the LAC.



The prime minister underlined that the maintenance of peace and tranquility in the border areas, and observing and respecting the LAC are essential for the normalisation of the India-China relationship", foreign secretary Vinay Kwatra had said.

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I.N.D.I.A or the 'Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance' of 26 non-BJP will reach Mumbai for their third national-level meeting on Friday. This will align with a parallel meeting to be held by Maharashtra's ruling National Democratic Alliance or NDA, led by the Bharatiya Janata Party at the Centre. The Mumbai meet of I.N.D.I.A parties will coincide with an NDA meet of ruling coalition in Maharashtra on Friday.

This will be the second time the two groups will be holding their respective meetings on the same date, as last month the BJP-led NDA huddled in New Delhi ahead of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.

The NDA meeting in Mumbai will welcome the newly inducted deputy chief minister Ajit Pawar and his NCP faction. NCP MP Sunil Tatkare, who represents the Ajit Pawar faction, said, In the meeting, all our state government alliance partners BJP, Shiv Sena (Eknath Shinde), and NCP (Ajit Pawar) will participate.

Tatkare rejected any connection between the high-profile NDA meeting and the date chosen for the I.N.D.I.A meeting. He said, Our meeting was planned a long back before the last state assembly Monsoon session by our coordination committee. So theres no point in saying that we are doing this as opposition parties are also having a meeting on the same day.

I.N.D.I.A bloc likely to expand

The I.N.D.IA bloc may unveil their official common logo in the upcoming meet. The meeting is also likely to discuss seat-sharing in the states for elections. Additionally, in a boost to the alliance, Bihar CM Nitish Kumar also hinted at its possible expansion with some more regional parties joining the project.

Meanwhile, on the decision to choose a PM face, Congress Leader PL Punia said that the names for the post will be decided after the alliance's victory.

Non-BJP leaders, including Uddhav Thackeray, Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal, his counterparts from various states including Nitish Kumar, Mamata Banerjee, and others including Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, Former Jammu and Kashmir CM Omar Abdullah, Mehbooba Mufti, Sharad Pawar, are expected to be a part of the event.

The Opposition grouping aimed at taking down the Narendra Modi-led government in the 2024 elections began their series of meetings in June to chart a roadmap for their undertaking and strengthen the newly forged unity even as sharp differences persist among themselves.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR Nisha Anand Trainee Content Producer at HT Digital. I read about feminism, late modern history, and globalisation of Korean music. ...view detail
Washington: Sixty-eight per cent Indian adults believe that Indias influence has risen in the world, but only a median of 28% adults across 19 other countries in the world think so. Seventy-nine per cent Indian adults have faith in Narendra Modi to do the right thing, much higher than a median of only 37% adults in 12 other countries who have the same confidence in the Indian Prime Minister. Most countries lean positively towards India, with a median of 46% adults in 23 countries expressing favourable views of India in general, compared to 34% adults who have an unfavourable view (Shutterstock)

At the same time, most countries lean positively towards India, with a median of 46% adults in 23 countries expressing favourable views of India in general, compared to 34% adults who have an unfavourable view. Among all the countries, India enjoys the highest positive ratings in Israel.

These are among the findings of a major new study conducted by Pew Research Center on Indias global influence, a foreign policy issue that has found its way into Indian domestic politics where a key campaign plank of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is the rise in Indias prestige globally under Modi. Conducted between February 20 and May 22 this year, and released on Tuesday ahead of India hosting the G20 Summit, the survey is based on responses of 30,861 adults in 24 countries, including India. The study also incorporates the results of separate surveys done by Pew last year.

Among the key takeaways from the survey is that while India remains more liked than disliked, the perception of Indians about Indias influence and Modis qualities is more positive than how the rest of the world views both the country and the PM. It also shows that barring Nigeria and Kenya, the favourability ratings for India have dipped in most countries, with the dip most acute in Europe. For instance, if 70% adults surveyed in France, Indias closest strategic partner in Europe, expressed positive views of India in 2008, only 39% French adults have the same positive views in 2023, a 31 percentage point drop in 15 years.

Indians also stand apart from others in their views of the US, Russia and China. Sixty-five per cent Indian adults view the US favourably, while the median favourability rating for the US globally is 59%. A majority of Indians, at 57%, also view Russia favourably, while the median approval rating for Russia across 23 other countries is just 14%. The countries most disliked in India are, unsurprisingly, China and Pakistan, with 67% expressing an unfavourable view of Beijing, and 73% doing the same for Islamabad, among which 57% express a very unfavourable view.

How the world sees India

India enjoys a higher favourability than unfavourability rating across most countries in the world.

Among Quad partners, 51% Americans, 55% Japanese, and 52% Australians view India positively. In Africa, 64% in Kenya and 60% in Nigeria view India in a positive light. But South Africa stands out as an exception in the continent, with only 28% expressing positive views while 51% in the country with which India has shared a close historic relationship view New Delhi negatively. In Latin America, Mexico is the only country where India enjoys a higher favourability rating than unfavourability rating; in both Brazil and Argentina, more adults are negative than positive towards India.

Sixty-six per cent of adults in the UK view India positively, while 52% Italians do the same. Netherlands, Spain and Greece stand out for more adults expressing unfavourable views of India than favourable ones, France is split with 39% expressing positive and 39% expressing negative views of India.

But the country where India enjoys the highest favourability rating is Israel, with 71% adults surveyed expressing positive views and only 20% expressing an unfavourable view.

In terms of political complexion, while those who favour right-wing parties in Hungary, Australia and Israel are likely to be more positive towards India, the exception is the US. Liberals, according to the Pew survey, are 10 percentage points more likely than conservatives to hold a positive view of India.

Providing what will be food for thought to Indian policymakers, the survey points out that there has been a dip in Indias ratings across geographies. In 2016, 52% Canadians were positive about India; the figure now is 47%. In 2008, 60% Germans saw India favourably, the number today is 47%. If, in 2018, 57% Indonesians saw India positively, the figure today is 45%. Even in Japan, favourability ratings have dipped slightly from 58% to 55% from 2018 to 2023, while in South Korea, it has dipped from 64% to 58%. In the US, compared to 2015, where 63% were positive about India, the figure today is 51%.

The exceptions to this trend are Nigeria, where from 45% adults expressing positive views of India in 2013, today, 60% do the same, and Kenya, where Indias favourability ratings have gone up from 61% to 64% in a decade.

How the world sees Modi

Across 12 countries where adults were asked about their views of Modi, a median of 40% adults have no faith in the Indian PM doing the right thing regarding world affairs, while 37% believed he would do the right thing.

In the US, 37% have no confidence in the PM while 21% do; 40% of the survey respondents in America hadnt heard of Modi. 45% in Japan have faith he will do the right thing, compared to 37% who dont. Australians and Israelis are almost evenly split on Modi, with 41% having faith in him and 42% lacking confidence in both countries. Once again, Kenya and Nigeria stand out  60% Kenyans and 47% Nigerians have confidence in Modi.

The PM is unpopular in Latin America, where 60% Mexicans, 54% Brazilians and 41% Argentinians lack confidence in Modi.

How India sees itself and the world

The global figures stand in sharp contrast to the attitudes in India. While 79% Indians see Modi favourably, among them, 55% see him very favourably. The Pew survey also asked respondents about other domestic leaders, among whom Rahul Gandhi ranks second in ratings, with 60% of Indian adults surveyed viewing him positively.

On Indias influence globally, 68% Indians see it as growing. When broken down according to party loyalties, 77% of those who support the ruling alliance see this to be the case while 60% of those who dont identify with ruling parties agree Indias influence has risen. In terms of gender, 71% men, compared to 65% women, see Indias influence as having grown.

Forty-nine per cent Indian adults believe that the role of the US has become stronger compared to a median of 32% among adults in 19 countries who view US role as having grown; 65% also express positive views of the US; and 64% have faith in President Joe Biden doing the right thing in world affairs.

Seventy-two percent of Indian adults believe that US takes into account interests of countries like theirs, while only a median of 45% in 22 other countries surveyed believe this to be the case. Seventy per cent Indians also view US as contributing to peace and stability across the world, while 68% also see it as interfering in affairs of other countries.

On Russia, 41% Indians believe Moscows global influence as having grown in recent years. 57% view Russia favourably, among whom 23% view it very favourably. Fifty-nine per cent Indian adults surveyed also have confidence in Vladimir Putin, compared to a median of 12% across 23 other countries who have confidence in the Russian leader. Indians are also clear that maintaining access to Russian oil and energy is more important than being tough with Russia in Ukraine, with 71% expressing the view compared to a median of 27% across ten other countries who share that view.

Only 38% Indians believe Chinas influence has grown, compared to a median of 66% adults in other countries seeing an increase in Beijings role. Sixty-seven per cent Indian adults express an unfavourable view of China, among them 50% express a very unfavourable view. Fifty-seven per cent Indians have no confidence in Chinas president Xi Jinping. Over half of the Indian adults surveyed said Chinese investments have not been good for the Indian economy.

Pakistan remains the least favoured country among Indians, with 73% expressing unfavourable views. In terms of party loyalties, 81% of those who support the ruling parties in India are likely to express negative sentiments about Pakistan, compared to 68% who dont identify with the ruling alliance.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR Prashant Jha Prashant Jha is the Washington DC-based US correspondent of Hindustan Times. He is also the editor of HT Premium. Jha has earlier served as editor-views and national political editor/bureau chief of the paper. He is the author of How the BJP Wins: Inside India's Greatest Election Machine and Battles of the New Republic: A Contemporary History of Nepal. ...view detail
Rashtriya Janata Dal chief Lalu Prasad on Tuesday lashed out at Prime Minister Narendra Modi ahead of the I.N.D.I.A alliance meeting in Mumbai on Friday.



"Mumbai mein Narendra Modi ke nareti pe chadhne jaa rahe hain humlog. Narendra Modi ka nareti pakde huye hain hum, hatana hai (We are going to climb on the throat of Narendra Modi. We have caught hold of his throat and we have to remove him," the RJD supremo told reporters in Patna.



This is not the first time when the former railways minister has hit out at the PM. Last month, he had called PM Modi as convenor of corrupt over NCP chief Sharad Pawar's nephew Ajit joining the Shiv Sena (Shinde)-BJP government in Maharashtra. Rashtriya Janata Dal chief Lalu Prasad.(X/ANI)

I.N.D.I.A meet on September 1

The leaders of 26 opposition parties, who are members of the I.N.D.I.A bloc, will meet in India's financial capital on Friday. The opposition alliance may launch the official common logo and is likely to discuss seat-sharing in the states which will go to polls. Bihar chief minister Nitish Kumar also hinted at its possible expansion with some more regional parties joining the project.

Non-BJP leaders, including Uddhav Thackeray, Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal, Nitish Kumar, Mamata Banerjee, Rahul Gandhi, Omar Abdullah, Mehbooba Mufti and Sharad Pawar, are expected to be a part of the event.

On July 18, Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge had announced the name of opposition bloc as Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (India). He had said that a secretariat will be set up in Delhi for poll campaign management. The Congress chief also announced an 11-member coordination committee and the names of the members will be discussed at the Mumbai meeting.



We are defending the idea of our great country India. You can look into the history and tell that nobody has been able to defeat the idea of India, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi had said.

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Haryana home minister Anil Vij on Tuesday slammed the opposition Congress saying that the initial probe points toward the party's role in the communal clashes in Nuh and its adjoining areas, which claimeed the lives of six people. Haryana home minister Anil Vij. (HT File Photo)(HT_PRINT)

While addressing a press conference, Vij said that the police has so far arrested 510 people and registered 130-140 FIRs in the case. He also alleged that there are evidence against Congress MLA Mamman Khan which suggests he visited the areas where violence took place.

"In the initial investigation, we have arrested approximately 510 people and we have registered 130-140 FIRs. After their interrogation, the conclusion that we are getting for now is that it looks like this has been done by Congress. In this Congress's MLA Mamman Khan has also been called for interrogation by police on August 30," he said.

Meanwhile, chief minister Manohar Lal Khattar on Monday took a dig at the grand old party and asked it to break its "silence" on Khan's alleged involvement in the clashes.

Khattar said that not only has one of the Congress MLAs been issued a notice by the police, but fingers are also being pointed at some other MLAs from the party in connection with the violence

"Surprisingly, Congress has adopted silence and is not saying anything. Despite these grave allegations, the Congress party has maintained a silence. The absence of a response from them certainly proves that 'dal mai kuch kala hai' (something is suspicious)," he told the reporters after the day's proceedings in the state assembly ended.

Communal clashes had erupted in Haryana's Nuh and its adjoining areas after a Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) procession was attacked by a mob on July 31 leading to the death of six people, including two home guards and a cleric.

(With inputs from agencies)
External affairs minister S Jaishankar on Tuesday spoke on China's latest map showing Arunachal Pradesh and Aksai Chin as its own territory.



Speaking to NDTV, Jaishankar said,"It's an old habit of theirs. These (territories) are very much part of India. This government is very clear what our territories are. Making absurd claims doesn't make others territories yours".



Besides claiming Arunachal and Aksai Chin, which it occupied in the 1962 war, China has also claimed Taiwan and South China Sea in the newly released map. Beijing claims Taiwan as part of its mainland and its integration with the mainland is part of a vowed objective of Chinese President Xi Jinping.



Vietnam, the Philippines, Malaysia, Brunei and Taiwan have counterclaims over the South China Sea areas.



The 2023 edition of China's standard map was officially released on Monday and launched on the website of the standard map service hosted by the Ministry of Natural Resources", Chinese state-run Global Times said in a post on social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar.(ANI file)

China's map provocation comes days ahead of the G20 nations summit which is being hosted by India from September 8-10. Several world leaders including US president Joe Biden, French president Emmanuel Macron and Chinese president Xi Jinping will be attending the event in Delhi.



Last week, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Jinping had met briefly at the BRICS summit venue in Johannesburg. During the interaction, Prime Minister Modi expressed concerns over massive deployment of PLA forces in East Ladakh. The PM made it clear that the route towards normalisation goes through disengagement and de-escalation along the 3,488 km LAC.



The relations between India and China have been strained since the two armies clashed at Galwan valley three years ago. Both the countries have held 19 rounds of military level talks since then.

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Onam festival 2023: Prime Minister Narendra Modi, President Droupadi Mumru, Kerala chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan, governor Arif Mohammed Khan, CPI(M) general secretary Sitaram Yechury and several other leaders extended their greetings on the 10-day Onam festival on Tuesday. The leaders shared messages, urging people to spread the sparkle of the harvest festival of Kerala and wished for prosperity. Chennai: Students dressed in traditional attire prepare for their performance during Onam festivities, at a school in Chennai, Monday.(PTI)

PM Modi tweeted on X(formerly Twitter), Onam greetings to everyone! May your lives be showered with good health, unparalleled joy and immense prosperity. Over the last many years, Onam has become a global festival and it beautifully showcases the vibrant culture of Kerala.

President Murmu greeted the citizens and said, On this auspicious occasion we express our gratitude to Mother nature for the countless bounties. May this harvest festival usher in prosperity and the spirit of harmony among all.

Vijayan said Onam embodies the timeless values of equality and fraternity and added that these values give impetus to the struggle to recreate the same conditions of peace and prosperity. Khan urged the people to join hands to spread the melody, charm and sparkle of Onam across the globe as Kerala's unique message of love, equality and harmony.

Yechury said, Wishing the very best to all to strengthen the efforts to establish an equitable society based on Liberty Equality and Fraternity. Onam represents the triumph over forces that oppose.

Tamil Nadu chief minister MK Stalin said the festival was an opportunity to re-establish an India filled with equality, brotherhood and growth. "My heartfelt wishes on Onam, a festival celebrated by the people of Kerala with enthusiasm and unity, said Stalin.

He added, It's not just a harvest festival but also a festival where Malayalis symbolically welcome Maveli, the Dravidian King.

Also Read: A functional take on Onam fashion

The X (formerly Twitter) handle of the Congress party also tweeted on the occasion. Warm greetings to our brothers and sisters of Kerala on the auspicious occasion of Onam. May this festival bring happiness and abundance to all, it said.

The festival, which began on August 20, is celebrated with much pomp and show and lasts for ten days. Kerala's theme for this year's celebration is Onam, Oru Eenam (Onam, the symphony of harmony). Visuals showed Thiruvananthapuram decorated with lights and people gathered in vibrant attires, adding to the festive atmosphere.

The mythology

The festival has its origins in a popular mythology. It is said that the southern state was once ruled by 'Mahabali', a generous Asura (demon) king. During his reign, everyone was equal and deception and theft were unheard of.

However, the Gods, envious of his rule, pushed him down to the netherworld with the support of Lord Vishnu. The legend states that after being dethroned, Mahabali was allowed to return on Thiruvonam day every year  the tenth day of the festival. Ever since, the king's homecoming is marked by the festival of Onam.

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Passengers hailing taxis from online aggregators like Uber and Ola should receive a rebate in case a cab driver cancels a ride, a panel appointed by the Maharashtra government has recommended. The aggregators currently levy a charge when a passenger cancels a ride. Noida, India - March 22, 2018: Uber Cab moving near Mahamaya flyover in Noida, India, on Thursday, March 22, 2018. (Photo by Virendra Singh Gosain/ Hindustan Times) (To go with Snehils story) (HT file photo)

A taxi should get no more than 20 minutes to reach the pickup point, beyond which a fine should be levied for the delay, the committee has recommended. Also, for the first time, regional transport offices could get the right to delist an aggregator cab if the vehicle is found to be in an unfit condition.

The committee, headed by retired bureaucrat Sudhirkumar Shrivastava, was constituted in April and a final report will be submitted soon for necessary approval.

People have been for long complaining against aggregator cabs canceling rides after accepting them. Based on these complaints, it has been recommended that passengers should be compensated for time spent waiting for the aggregator cab, officials in the transport department said, declining to be named.

There is a recommendation that a driver pays 50-75 as fine against every cancellation, and the rebate will be given to the affected passenger, an official said. These (recommendations) will come into effect only when the government accepts them.

The draft rules bring hope to passengers, given the waiting time for aggregator cabs has risen by 6-10 minutes or even more during peak hours.

Whenever this decision comes into effect, we will welcome it. The government should confirm the mode of payment to the passenger as he is transacting with the cab aggregator, said lawyer Shirish Deshpande of Mumbai Grahak Panchayat, a collective of consumers. Such a rebate should ideally be routed through the system.

RTO authorities may also be empowered to cancel the vehicle permit over fitness and general condition of the taxis, officials said. At present, the aggregator decides on the action if a passenger complains to it on the mobile app on the basis of star ratings on the overall ride experience, ride quality, vehicle condition, etc.

The action taken is not in public domain, and the RTO could be given the scope for taking necessary action, said another official. Complaints on poor quality of vehicle, stinking seats and squeaky doors are among the common experiences faced by passengers.

We are awaiting the state governments approval, said Shrivastava.

These draft rules are in accordance with the Motor Vehicle Aggregators Guidelines 2020 issued by the Union ministry for road transport and highways, which has directed all states to implement the rules. The committee also looked into issues such as fare regulation, driver training and background checks for drivers.

Uber and Ola did not comment to the query sent.

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As China officially released its latest edition of the standard map, showing the state of Arunachal Pradesh and the Aksai Chin region as part of its territory, Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut on Tuesday said that the Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's claims in Ladakh were true and that if the Central government has courage then it should do a surgical strike on the South-East Asian country. Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut (PTI)

While speaking to reporters here in a press briefing, Raut said that Rahul Gandhi's claims that China has entered Pangong valley in Ladakh were true.

"(Our Prime Minister Narendra Modi) recently attended the BRICS summit and greeted Xi Jinping. After that, comes the map of China. Rahul Gandhi's claim is true that China has entered the Pangong valley in Ladakh. China tries to enter Arunachal. If you (Central government) have courage then do a surgical strike on China," the Shiv Sena (UBT) leader said.

The map released by China on August 28 shows Arunachal Pradesh which China claims as South Tibet and Aksai Chin occupied by it in the 1962 war as part of its territory. Taiwan and the disputed South China Sea are also included within the Chinese territory in the new map.

The map also incorporates China's claims over the nine-dash line thus laying claim to a large part of the South China Sea.

The map was released by Chinas Ministry of Natural Resources during the celebration of Surveying and Mapping Publicity Day and the National Mapping Awareness Publicity Week on Monday in Deqing county, Zhejiang province, as per China Daily newspaper.

Recently Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Xi Jinping met on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit in Johannesburg, South Africa.

Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra had said in his conversation with President Xi Jinping, Prime Minister Modi highlighted India's concerns on unresolved issues along the Line of Actual Control in the Western Sector of the India-China border areas.

"The Prime Minister underlined that maintenance of peace and tranquillity in the border areas and observing and respecting the LAC are essential for the normalisation of the India-China relationship. In this regard, two leaders agreed to direct their relevant officials to intensify efforts at expeditious disengagement and de-escalation," Kwatra had said.

Earlier this month, during his visit to Ladakh, Congress MP Rahul Gandhi hit out at the Centre, saying that its claim that not an inch of Indian land was taken by China's People Liberation Army (PLA) troops "is not true".

The Congress MP claimed the locals, too, contend that Indian territory was intruded upon and taken by the Chinese troops, adding that it was a matter of concern.

"The locals here are concerned about China taking our land. They have said that the Chinese troops took away their grazing land. However, the PM says not an inch of land was taken away. This is not true, you can ask anyone here," Rahul had said.
Former Congress president and Lok Sabha MP Rahul Gandhi will visit Europe next month to meet European Parliament lawmakers, university students, and members of the Indian diaspora in what is seen as his latest outreach programme, said people aware of developments. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi. (PTI)

Gandhi will participate in an interactive session with a group of European parliamentarians in Brussels on September 7. The programme was planned a while ago but had to be deferred, a Congress leader said, declining to be named.

Earlier this year, the European Union (EU) said it was closely following the criminal defamation case against Gandhi and his disqualification from Parliament. The Supreme Court has since stayed his conviction and reinstated Gandhi in the Lok Sabha.

Gandhis visit coincides with the G20 Summit in New Delhi. These meetings were planned earlier and it is a coincidence that Gandhi will be in Europe when India will host the summit, a second Congress leader said, asking not to be named.

The Congress lawmaker will also go to Paris to interact with university students, and may also meet people at a few think-tanks. He is also scheduled to visit Oslo, the Norwegian capital, to interact with the Indian diaspora.

Gandhis last official trip to Europe in this year was controversial. At an event organised by think tank Chatham House in London on March 6, he said democracy in India was under threat. Gandhi maintained that the erosion of democratic values in the country was an internal problem, but the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party alleged that the Opposition leader had sought foreign intervention.

It is Indias problem and the solution is going to come from inside. It is not going to come from outside. However, democracy in India is a global public good, Gandhi had said. If Indian democracy collapses, in my view, democracy on the planet suffers a very serious, fatal blow.

He added: It is important for you, too. You must be aware of what is happening in India the idea of a democratic model is being attacked and threatened.

The comments triggered protests in both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha. Union ministers, including defence minister Rajnath Singh and commerce minister Piyush Goyal, demanded Gandhis apology in Parliament. In response, the Congress dismissed the demand, saying Gandhi did not say anything for which he needed to apologise.

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said that the reduction in prices of cooking gas cylinders will make the lives of women easier. Prime Minister Narendra Modi(PIB)

Taking to X (former Twitter), PM Modi said, The festival of Raksha Bandhan is a day to increase happiness in a family. The reduction in gas prices will increase the comfort of the sisters in my family and make their lives easier. May every sister of mine be happy, be healthy, be happy, this is my wish from God.

In a move that will bring respite to households across India, the Central government has announced a reduction of 200 in cooking gas.

Briefing reporters on the decision of the union cabinet, Information and Broadcasting Minister Anurag Singh Thakur said the decision is a gift from Prime Minister Narendra Modi, to the women of the country on Onam and Raksha Bandhan. The meeting of the Cabinet was chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Effective Wednesday, the price of a 14.2 kg LPG cylinder will be reduced by 200 across the country. In Delhi for instance, the decision will bring down the cost of a 14.2 kg cylinder from the existing 1,103 per cylinder to 903.

Reacting to the decision taken by the Union Cabinet, BJP National President JP Nadda said, "Heartfelt gratitude for the decision taken by the Cabinet under the chairmanship of respected Prime Minister Narendra Modi, cutting the price of cooking gas. Now Ujjwala beneficiaries will get LPG at 700 and all other consumers will get LPG at 900."

"Modi ji's gift to our women power on the auspicious occasion of Raksha Bandhan. This decision of Modi ji will benefit 33 crore consumers across the country," he added.

This across-the-board reduction is in addition to the existing targeted subsidy of 200 per cylinder to Ujjwala households, which will continue. Therefore, the effective price in Delhi for Ujjwala beneficiaries after this reduction will be 703.

It may be noted that there are more than 31 crore domestic LPG consumers, including 9.6 crore Ujjwala beneficiaries.

Hardeep Singh Puri, Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas, expressed his happiness with the decision, stating, We understand the challenges faced by households in managing their budgets. The reduction in cookinggas pricesis aimed at providing direct relief to families and individuals, while also supporting the governments larger goal of ensuring affordable access to essential items.
Mocking both Nitish Kumar and Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) over their participation in the joint opposition alliance to take on the ruling BJP in next year's Lok Sabha polls, political strategist Prashant Kishor on Tuesday wondered what role a party with 0 Lok Sabha MPs (RJD) and a leader losing foothold in his own state (Kumar) would play in deciding who runs the country after the 2024 general elections. Political strategist-activist Prashant Kishor (PTI File)

RJD does not have a single MP from Biharis it possible for such a party to decide who governs the nation? Nitish ji has all of 42 legislators and 16 MPs due to his previous alliance. When you are becoming less powerful by the day, what role can you play in national politics? Kishor says in a video uploaded by his office on X, the social media platform earlier known as Twitter.

Kishor, a former leader of Kumar's Janata Dal (United), who has, however, become a fierce critic of the Bihar chief minister, continued against the veteran politician: Nitish ji's own condition is so bad, his foothold is shrinking in his own state. If you look at the order of precedence in the opposition bloc, the Congress is the largest party, followed by the Trinamool, then the DMKparties which govern states with full authority and have 20-25 MPs. Nitish Kumar ji, however, has nothinghe has no party or image left. Only Bihar's media talks about Nitish Kumaryou go to other states, nobody talks about him.

He reiterated that Bihar's ruling Mahagathbandhan (Grand Alliance) is relevant only to the state, and does not matter in national politics.

RJD, JD(U) in opposition alliance

The two parties are among the constituents of I.N.D.I.A (Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance); the coalition members have come together to deny a third straight term at the Centre to prime minister Narendra Modi and the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA).

The group has held two meetings; the first was hosted by Nitish in Patna on June 23, while the second round of talks took place in Bengaluru in the Congress-ruled Karnataka on July 17 and 18. The third round, at which the number of parties is expected to increase from the current 26, is scheduled for August 31 and September 1 in Mumbai. The Mumbai conference will be hosted by Maharashtra's opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) coalition.

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An impromptu meeting between Telugu Desam Party president N Chandrababu Naidu and Bharatiya Janata Party national president J P Nadda in New Delhi on Monday has again sparked speculations over a possible alliance between the two parties ahead of the assembly elections in Andhra Pradesh due early next year. BJP national president JP Nadda interacts with former Andhra Pradesh chief minister N. Chandrababu Naidu during the release of the commemorative coin on legendary actor-politician NT Rama Rao on his birth centenary celebration, at Rashtrapati Bhavan Cultural Centre, in New Delhi on Monday. (ANI)

The meeting between Nadda and Naidu took place soon after the release of a commemorative coin on TDP founder-president and legendary Telugu actor N T Rama Rao by President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan Cultural Centre.

Also Read | Andhra Pradesh will be number 1 in green energy generation in a few years, says CM Jagan

All the family members of NTR, including Naidu, Nadda and several TDP functionaries attended the event, which was organised by NTRs elder daughter and state BJP president Daggubati Purandeshwari.

Naidu was sitting in the front row of the audience at the event, and was seen chatting with Nadda who was seated beside him. After the meeting, both of them were closeted in the adjacent chambers for an interaction.

Purandeshwari and her husband and former MLA Daggubati Venkateshwar Rao were also present at the discussions with Nadda which went on for about 15-20 minutes.

While Purandeshwari could not be reached out for her comment, Naidu, who interacted with reporters in New Delhi on Tuesday, refused to divulge the details of his discussions with the BJP national president.

Nobody knows what we are discussing with the BJP internally. There is no angle of politics which I have not seen so far. My ultimate objective is to rebuild Andhra Pradesh, he said.

Stating that the TDP was a political party with nationalistic ideology and had played a major role in the national politics, Naidu pointed out that his party had come out of the National Democratic Alliance (in 2018) only on the issue of special category status to Andhra Pradesh.

Otherwise, we dont have any serious differences with the Centre. I have made it clear several times in the past, he clarified.

The TDP president said he wanted to be part of the nation building. How we do it has to be worked out. Only time will decide it, he asserted.

A senior TDP leader familiar with the meeting said there was no concrete discussion between Naidu and Nadda on alliances, though the TDP chief had explained the present political scenario of the state to the BJP chief. Maybe, there will be some developments in that direction in the coming months, but as of now, there is no progress, he said.

The BJP has been in alliance with the Jana Sena Party headed by Telugu film star Pawan Kalyan, who has been intensely lobbying to bring the TDP into the alliance, so that there is no split in the anti-incumbency vote in Andhra Pradesh in the upcoming elections.

For the last four and a half years, the TDP has been adopting a softer stand towards the BJP and supported the Centre on several issues, including in the presidential and vice-presidential elections. Even during the recent no-trust motion moved by the opposition parties against the Narendra Modi government and also on the Delhi administration bill, the TDP extended support to the Centre.

Naidu, who often described Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a visionary, had met Union home minister Amit Shah and Nadda on June 4 this year. But there was no further progress in the alliance between the TDP and the BJP.

Now that Naidus sister-in-law Purandeshwari has become the BJP state president, the talk of a possible alliance between the two parties has started and Mondays meeting between Naidu and Nadda in the presence of Purandeshwari lent credence to it.

Reacting to the latest meeting between Naidu and Nadda, YSRCP general secretary V Vijay Sai Reddy said Purandeshwari was lobbying for an alliance with the TDP, though Nadda was reluctant for the same.

What more evidence does it require to say that you, your husband and your brother-in-law  all l belong to the same clan. Even the BJP leadership knows about it. That is why the key has been handed over to the thief! he tweeted, referring to her appointment as the state BJP chief.

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The bench is seized of a raft of petitions, filed by parliamentarians from the NC, Kashmiri citizens, former bureaucrats and various organisations that have laid the challenge to the abrogation of Article 370 soon after the presidential order in August 2019. On July 3, the Supreme Court notified the setting up of a new Constitution bench, comprising its five most senior judges, that began day-to-day hearing in the case from August 2.

At one point, the bench asked Mehta whether it would be consistent with the principles of federalism to do away with the need to obtain the views of the state legislature by making Parliament act like a state legislature during Presidents Rule. Mehta assured the bench that he would be able to satisfy the legal query when he elaborates on this point on Tuesday when the hearing resumes.

Mehta further emphasised that Presidents power to reorganise a state into UTs during the imposition of the Presidents Rule was not circumscribed by any constitutional provision or a precedent of the Supreme Court. President can decide in a given situation that reorganisation is the only way to take a state out of the situation that led to the imposition of Article 356, he argued.

On the eleventh day of the hearing of the case, SG Mehta continued arguing on behalf of the Centre and the J&K administration. He focussed on an array of rights that were not available to the J&K residents before the entirety of the Indian Constitution was made applicable to the erstwhile state by virtue of the abrogation.

In its counter affidavit filed in 2015, the then J&K government had claimed that Article 35A has become a permanent feature of the Indian Constitution, adding the 1954-Presidenial Order granting special rights to permanent residents of the state has been recognised, accepted and acted upon since its enactment and cannot be challenged after six decades.

In the clutch of matters being heard by the Constitution bench against ending the special status of J&K, there are at least two petitions, filed in 2014, that had challenged the validity of Article 35A, which now stands abrogated along with Article 370.

Mehta retorted that it was a mistake, and that J&K could develop only if there was enough investment made there. Mistakes of past should not befall on future generations. I am justifying our undoing the mistakes of the past. And this continued till 2019. Please, look at this matter from the point of view of the people in J&K. Till now, people were convinced by those who were supposed to guide them that Article 370 is not a disadvantage but a privilege and that they should keep fighting for it. This is the most unfortunate part. Something, which was an impediment in full realisation of their rights and development, was tutored as a privilege, he added.

Senior counsel Kapil Sibal, appearing for National Conference (NC) leader Mohammad Akbar Lone, submitted that then prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru was strictly against allowing outsiders to buy immovable properties in J&K since he though this could destroy the Valley state.

As the court pointed out that Article 35A came into being only after the Centre approved it, Mehta said that it was a mistake that the present government has tried to rectify.

The bench further rued that Article 35A also took away the power of judicial review by disabling the court from scrutinising any law of J&K framed under this constitutional provision.

By Article 35A, you are taking away at least three fundamental rights. You virtually took away rights under Articles 16(1), 19(1)(f) -- as it then existed, and 19(1)(e). While 16(1) was preserved by applying Part III of the Indian Constitution, Article 35A directly took away that right. In fact, all three fundamental rights were essentially taken away by the CO of 1954, it noted.

Appreciating a submission by solicitor general (SG) Tushar Mehta as to how Article 35A created an artificial distinction not only between the permanent residents and other residents of J&K but also with other citizens in the country, the bench lamented that the impugned constitutional provision laid down a completely different mechanism of application of the fundamental rights.

Article 35A, which was also nullified along with the abrogation of Article 370 in August 2019, accorded special rights and privileges to the natives of J&K, and empowered its legislature to frame any law without attracting a challenge on grounds of violating right to equality of people from other states or any other right under the Indian Constitution. Article 35A was added to the Constitution by exercise of power under Article 370.

The 1954 Constitutional Order applied Part III (relating to fundamental rights) to J&K but in the same vein, Article 35A was created which took away three valuable fundamental rights of people by creating exception in three areas: opportunity of government employment, acquisition of property and settlement, remarked the bench, which also comprised justices Sanjay Kishan Kaul, Sanjiv Khanna, Bhushan R Gavai and Surya Kant.

According to a Constitution bench headed by Chief Justice of India Dhananjaya Y Chandrachud , Article 35A , which was added to the Constitution by a Presidential Order in 1954, denuded people of at least three fundamental rights -- equality of opportunity for all citizens in public jobs under Article 16(1); acquisition of properties under Articles 19(1)(f) and 31; and right to settle in any part of the country under Article 19(1)(e).

Article 35A, which granted special rights to permanent residents of the erstwhile state of Jammu & Kashmir, took away a bundle of fundamental rights of the people of India, the Supreme Court observed on Monday, while hearing the matter of the abrogation of Article 370 and the restructuring of J& K into two Union territories.

Article 35A, which granted special rights to permanent residents of the erstwhile state of Jammu & Kashmir, took away a bundle of fundamental rights of the people of India, the Supreme Court observed on Monday, while hearing the matter of the abrogation of Article 370 and the restructuring of J& K into two Union territories.

PREMIUM The Constitution bench is headed by Chief Justice of India Dhananjaya Y Chandrachud.(PTI file)

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According to a Constitution bench headed by Chief Justice of India Dhananjaya Y Chandrachud, Article 35A, which was added to the Constitution by a Presidential Order in 1954, denuded people of at least three fundamental rights -- equality of opportunity for all citizens in public jobs under Article 16(1); acquisition of properties under Articles 19(1)(f) and 31; and right to settle in any part of the country under Article 19(1)(e).

The 1954 Constitutional Order applied Part III (relating to fundamental rights) to J&K but in the same vein, Article 35A was created which took away three valuable fundamental rights of people by creating exception in three areas: opportunity of government employment, acquisition of property and settlement, remarked the bench, which also comprised justices Sanjay Kishan Kaul, Sanjiv Khanna, Bhushan R Gavai and Surya Kant.

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Article 35A, which was also nullified along with the abrogation of Article 370 in August 2019, accorded special rights and privileges to the natives of J&K, and empowered its legislature to frame any law without attracting a challenge on grounds of violating right to equality of people from other states or any other right under the Indian Constitution. Article 35A was added to the Constitution by exercise of power under Article 370.

Appreciating a submission by solicitor general (SG) Tushar Mehta as to how Article 35A created an artificial distinction not only between the permanent residents and other residents of J&K but also with other citizens in the country, the bench lamented that the impugned constitutional provision laid down a completely different mechanism of application of the fundamental rights.

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By Article 35A, you are taking away at least three fundamental rights. You virtually took away rights under Articles 16(1), 19(1)(f) -- as it then existed, and 19(1)(e). While 16(1) was preserved by applying Part III of the Indian Constitution, Article 35A directly took away that right. In fact, all three fundamental rights were essentially taken away by the CO of 1954, it noted.

The bench further rued that Article 35A also took away the power of judicial review by disabling the court from scrutinising any law of J&K framed under this constitutional provision.

As the court pointed out that Article 35A came into being only after the Centre approved it, Mehta said that it was a mistake that the present government has tried to rectify.

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Senior counsel Kapil Sibal, appearing for National Conference (NC) leader Mohammad Akbar Lone, submitted that then prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru was strictly against allowing outsiders to buy immovable properties in J&K since he though this could destroy the Valley state.

Mehta retorted that it was a mistake, and that J&K could develop only if there was enough investment made there. Mistakes of past should not befall on future generations. I am justifying our undoing the mistakes of the past. And this continued till 2019. Please, look at this matter from the point of view of the people in J&K. Till now, people were convinced by those who were supposed to guide them that Article 370 is not a disadvantage but a privilege and that they should keep fighting for it. This is the most unfortunate part. Something, which was an impediment in full realisation of their rights and development, was tutored as a privilege, he added.

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In the clutch of matters being heard by the Constitution bench against ending the special status of J&K, there are at least two petitions, filed in 2014, that had challenged the validity of Article 35A, which now stands abrogated along with Article 370.

In its counter affidavit filed in 2015, the then J&K government had claimed that Article 35A has become a permanent feature of the Indian Constitution, adding the 1954-Presidenial Order granting special rights to permanent residents of the state has been recognised, accepted and acted upon since its enactment and cannot be challenged after six decades.

On the eleventh day of the hearing of the case, SG Mehta continued arguing on behalf of the Centre and the J&K administration. He focussed on an array of rights that were not available to the J&K residents before the entirety of the Indian Constitution was made applicable to the erstwhile state by virtue of the abrogation.

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Mehta further emphasised that Presidents power to reorganise a state into UTs during the imposition of the Presidents Rule was not circumscribed by any constitutional provision or a precedent of the Supreme Court. President can decide in a given situation that reorganisation is the only way to take a state out of the situation that led to the imposition of Article 356, he argued.

At one point, the bench asked Mehta whether it would be consistent with the principles of federalism to do away with the need to obtain the views of the state legislature by making Parliament act like a state legislature during Presidents Rule. Mehta assured the bench that he would be able to satisfy the legal query when he elaborates on this point on Tuesday when the hearing resumes.

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The bench is seized of a raft of petitions, filed by parliamentarians from the NC, Kashmiri citizens, former bureaucrats and various organisations that have laid the challenge to the abrogation of Article 370 soon after the presidential order in August 2019. On July 3, the Supreme Court notified the setting up of a new Constitution bench, comprising its five most senior judges, that began day-to-day hearing in the case from August 2.
The Supreme Court on Tuesday asked the Union government to indicate if there was a time frame for granting statehood to Jammu & Kashmir, underlining that the restoration of democracy in the region was very important, and prompting the Centre to respond that it would come back in 48 hours with a positive statement on the issue. The committee was constituted by the Supreme Court in a suo motu petition in 2018 (AP File)

The government has to make that statement before us that its (J&Ks) progression back to state has to take place. It cannot be a Union territory (UT) in permanence... Restoration of democracy is very important. Its a surviving component for our nation, a Constitution bench, led by Chief Justice of India Dhananjaya Y Chandrachud, said.

As the court heard the matter of the abrogation of Article 370 and the restructuring of J&K into two Union territories, the central government stressed that J&K will be made a state again but requested for time till August 31 to present a road map for the restoration of its statehood and other aspects of the issue.

Ladakh will, however, continue to remain a UT, solicitor general (SG) Tushar Mehta submitted before the bench, which also comprised justices Sanjay Kishan Kaul, Sanjiv Khanna, Bhushan R Gavai and Surya Kant. He sought time to have a deliberation at the highest level and come back with a tentative time frame.

J&K becoming a UT is not a permanent feature. I will make a positive statement on August 31... I can make a statement that it is a temporary measure. Two units were created under the reorganisation in 2019; one (J&K) with a legislature but power of police has to remain with the Centre because of peculiar security position there, he said.

To be sure, Mehta clarified that J&K presently does not have police under its control because of peculiar law and order situation. But the Centre intends to restore full statehood to J&K in future while giving back all powers in the State List, including police, to it, he added.

The courts query on statehood came as the SG defended the August 2019 abrogation of Article 370 and the subsequent reorganisation of J&K into two UTs, arguing there is no constitutional embargo against Parliament reorganising a state into two UTs and that the decision regarding J&K was imperative in view of history of violence, terrorism and its geographical location along the borders of the country.

At times, it is required to rejig the boundaries of a state. Considering J&Ks strategic importance, history of terrorism and outside influence from neighbouring countries, there will be certain key considerations for the central government. These are policy decisions, and a blueprint was prepared not only of the reorganisation but also what has to be done after the reorganisation, he argued.

Responding, the bench enquired whether the move to reorganise J&K into a UT was permanent or temporary. And if its not permanent, as you have already indicated, tell us how impermanent this is? And how long to have election? it asked the SG.

The bench pointed out that parts of Assam were carved out initially as UTs and were granted the status of states once Parliament was satisfied of their stable administrative capacity. Why is it not possible for the Union to say that right now, in case of a particular state, we have such an extreme situation in terms of national security that we want for a certain stipulated period that a UT should be created. But the creation of this UT is not a feature of permanence. It shall progress back to its position of a state? it asked Mehta.

Should the Union not have control only for a stipulated period to bring stability? Ultimately, lets face it. Whether this is a state or a UT, all of us survive if the nation survives. If the nation itself does not survive, there is no relevance of state or UT. Should we not give that allowance to Parliament to postulate that for a certain period, for the preservation of the nation itself and in the interest of the Union itself, we want for a certain stipulated period that this particular state should go in the fold of a Union territory... on a clear understanding that this shall revert to a position of state over a period of time, the bench added.

The bench also acknowledged that it may not be possible for the Centre to put forth a fixed period when a UT can regain its statehood, but added that such a progression has to happen. The government has to make that statement before us that look, that progression back to state has to take place. It cannot be a Union territory in permanence, it said

To this, Mehta read out the statements made by Union home minister Amit Shah on the floor of the House on August 5, 2019, clarifying that reorganisation of J&K into a UT was not and that after the situation returns to normalcy, it will become a state again.

The court replied: We are conscious of the fact that these are matters of national security and thats why we dont want to bind you down to a timeline...Ultimately preservation of the nation itself is an overriding concern. Without putting you in a bind, seek instructions at the highest level. Is there some time frame in view? Restoration of democracy is very important. Its a surviving component for our nation.

Mehta, on his part, referred to the first-ever district development council (DDC) elections in J&K in December 2020. For the first time in history, local body elections took place in J&K, and 34,000 candidates were elected. We now have elected representatives, he added.

Responding, the bench asked Mehta: We take your point that the progression has already begun. Is there a road map? Tell us what the road map is. The SG said he would come back with instructions on Thursday.

The bench is seized of a raft of petitions, filed by parliamentarians from the National Conference party, Kashmiri citizens, former bureaucrats and various organisations that have laid a challenge to the abrogation of Article 370 soon after the presidential order in August 2019. On July 3, the Supreme Court notified the setting up of a new Constitution bench, comprising its five most senior judges, that began day-to-day hearing in the case from August 2.

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New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Tuesday expressed concerns over the release of genetically modified (GM) mustard, saying any harm to the environment cannot be reversed. With the second sowing season for GM mustard round the corner, the top court refused permission to the Centre to proceed with the sowing of the seeds and posted the matter for hearing on September 26. (File photo)

With the second sowing season for GM mustard round the corner, the top court refused permission to the Centre to proceed with the sowing of the seeds and posted the matter for hearing on September 26.

A bench of justices BV Nagarathna and Ujjal Bhuyan was hearing an application filed by the Centre last week, seeking withdrawal of an oral undertaking it had submitted on November 3 that no precipitative steps would be taken as the validity of the GM technology is under consideration.

If we discharge you, then what remains in the matter. You cannot be allowed to release it into the environment The environmental harm cannot be reversed, the bench said.

A batch of petitions have been filed in the top court against the environmental release clearance granted to transgenic mustard hybrid DMH-11 by Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC), under the ministry of environment, forests and climate change (MoEFCC) on October 25. The transgenic mustard hybrid DMH-11 was developed by the Centre for Genetic Manipulation of Crop Plants (CGMCP) at Delhi University. So far, the Centre, in 2002, approved only one GM crop  Bt cotton  for commercial cultivation.

Appearing for the Centre, additional solicitor general (ASG) Aishwarya Bhati said the production of GM mustard will help achieve food security targets and reduce dependence on edible oil imports as nearly 50-60% of edible oil demand, constituting chiefly of mustard, is met through imports.

There are huge stakes involved in helping India secure its food security targets. An order to the contrary will put us back by many years, Bhati said.

The bench, however, said: At the same time, environment and ecology has to be maintained.

With the second sowing season for GM mustard round the corner, the Centre sought permission from the top court to proceed with the sowing of the seeds purely for research purposes, and not for commercial cultivation. The ASG said 12 years of research had gone behind this project and the environmental release of the GM mustard over four successive sowing seasons would aid scientists in gathering findings considered crucial for achieving higher mustard productivity.

The Centre assured the top court that field trials are being handled by experts at all levels, and sought permission to discharge the November 3 undertaking and proceed with the sowing. Alternatively, the ASG requested the court to allow research to continue on the GM mustard crops planted at 8 out of 10 designated sites of Indian Council for Agricultural Research (ICAR) last year and seek a report.

During the hearing, Bhati also said that the November 3 undertaking by her was made as the top court was scheduled to take up the clutch of petitions against use of GM mustard for hearing the following week.

The assurance was made as the next sowing season was one year away, the ASG said, adding: We are keen not to miss out on the sowing season. One year has already gone by and truncated sowing will affect research.

To this, the bench said nothing will happen for another three weeks, and posted the matter for hearing on September 26. It is only for one year. Next year, there will be another sowing season, the bench added.

The court also indicated that since the matter was earlier heard by a bench headed by justice Dinesh Maheshwari, who has since retired, the arguments will have to begin afresh.

Since the next sowing season begins in September, the Centres request to advance the hearing date was not entertained by the court.

A public interest litigation (PIL) challenging the introduction of genetically modified organisms (GMO) was filed by NGO Gene Campaign in 2004, followed by activist Aruna Rodrigues, among others. The petitioners sought transparency in the results of field trials conducted on GM crops and demanded a comprehensive and rigorous biosafety protocol by GEAC before the grant of clearance to any GMO.

The petitioners referred to findings of a technical expert committee that found GM crops unsustainable and unsuitable for India, noting that the herbicides sprayed on the herbicide-tolerant crops, including GM mustard, could cause cancer.

Senior advocate Sanjay Parikh, who appeared for Gene Campaign, told the court that the GM mustard crops planted last year should be uprooted as there is risk of its release into the environment.

Appearing for Rodrigues, advocate Prashant Bhushan said: They say it is not for commercial release, but what they have done last year is to release these crops into the environment. If they want to conduct research, let them do it in a closed space so that there is no risk of contamination of non-GM crops.

In its application on August 21, the Centre said: The oral statement made on behalf of the Union of India on November 3 was in the specific context of the present matter being listed for final hearing the following week. This was not intended to halt the entire process of research/testing under the conditional approval by the government (on October 25) for an extended period of time.
State largesse is not meant for doling out leave travel concession (LTC) for foreign trips, the Supreme Court has said while examining the validity of State Bank of India (SBI) allowing its officers to avail LTC for visits abroad until 2014 even as the Sixth Pay Commission (2008) rejected a similar demand of government employees. The Supreme Court. (Hindustan Times)

A bench of justices Hima Kohli and Rajesh Bindal on Monday said the SBI shall place on record reasons for continuing to allow availing of LTC for foreign trips. It was hearing SBIs challenge against a June 8 Madras high court order setting aside the banks 2014 notification withdrawing the facility of overseas travel under LTC. The order came on a petition of the All-India State Bank Officers Federation and All India Bank Officers Confederation.

Additional solicitor-general N Venkataraman, who appeared for the SBI, said that the officers cannot claim LTC for trips abroad as a matter of right citing the commission rejection.

The bench noted the commission report was released in 2008. You slept over it for six years. Until 2014, you were flagrantly doling out state largesse to your employees for travelling abroad. Why should we not castigate you for this action?

The commission in its 2008 report said the demand for allowing travel abroad at least once in the career under the scheme is not in consonance with its basic objective. The government employee cannot gain any perspective of the Indian culture by travelling abroad. Besides, the attendant cost of foreign travel would also make the expenditure under this scheme much higher.

Venkataraman argued all banks were providing this benefit.

The bench cited the disdain shown for the rules and said the facility should have stopped in 2008. It is like the pot calling the kettle black, the bench said. It directed SBI to provide details of the number of requests it has entertained for going abroad.

Advocate Gautam Narayan, representing the officers, told the court that the June 8 order said the Union government should have first heard the employees before withdrawing the facility. He added recovery proceedings were initiated against employees, many of whom have retired.

The bench said until further orders, the bank will not effect recovery of the amounts. It asked the bank whether it had made any payments towards LTC on foreign visits after 2014.

Venkataraman said in some of the individual cases, the employees obtained court orders where the payment was made subject to an undertaking that if the high court dismissed their petition, the entire amount would have to be refunded.

The officers said LTC on foreign visits was availed since 1982. In 2007, the federation signed a bipartite agreement with the banks which led to a revision of eligibility terms and eligible fares under LTC.

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Not every valid marriage requires a public declaration or solemnisation in a particular manner, the Supreme Court held on Monday, as it underlined the importance of autonomy in choosing life partners and approved a Tamil Nadu law that allowed self-respect marriages. The state law maintains that the parties to the marriage can proclaim in whatever language they understand that one person accepts the other to be his or her wife or husband; the parties can also garland each other, place rings on each others fingers, or tie the thali to solemnise the union, as per the law. (File photo)

Couples intending to marry may refrain from making a public declaration due to various reasons, such as familial opposition or fear for their safety. In such cases, enforcing a public declaration could put lives at risk and potentially result in forced separation, noted a bench of justices S Ravindra Bhat and Aravind Kumar.

Section 7-A of the Hindu Marriage Act, as applicable to the state of Tamil Nadu through a state amendment in 1967, legally recognises Suyamariyathai and Seerthiruththa marriages (reformist or self-respect marriages) between any two Hindus, solemnised in the presence of relatives, friends, or other persons.

The state law maintains that the parties to the marriage can proclaim in whatever language they understand that one person accepts the other to be his or her wife or husband; the parties can also garland each other, place rings on each others fingers, or tie the thali to solemnise the union, as per the law.

By a judgment on May 5, the Madras high court had disapproved of marriages being conducted by advocates in their offices under Section 7-A of HMA, citing a 2014 judgment of the same high court. It added that the marriage performed by advocates in their office is not valid, unless it is registered under the Tamil Nadu Registration of Marriages Act, 2009. The court further said that the physical appearance of the parties to the marriage before the marriage registrar is essential.

The high court judgment came while dismissing a habeas corpus petition filed by a man, who complained that his wife, with whom he was married in a ceremony before advocates, was forcibly taken away by her parents. The man filed an appeal against this order through advocates A Velan and Mrityunjay Pathak.

Setting aside the high court judgment, the top court on Monday banked on a 2001 judgment of the Supreme Court that held that the presence of a priest was not necessary for a valid marriage under Section 7-A and that a wedding conducted in the presence of relatives or friends or other persons by a simple ceremony was enough.

The view expressed by the Madras high court in Balakrishnan Pandiyan Case (2014) is erroneous. It is premised on the assumption that each marriage requires a public solemnisation or declaration. Such a view is rather simplistic because often due to parental pressure, couples intending to enter into matrimony may not enter into it for the reason of such opposition, hold or give such public declaration, as doing so would imperil their lives and could very likely result to threat of bodily integrity, or forcible or coerced separation, noted the bench.

It is not hard to visualise other pressures brought to two individuals who are otherwise adults and possess free will, said the court, adding the 2014 judgment of the Madras high court is not only narrowing the otherwise wide import of statute but is also violative of the right under Article 21 of the Constitution.

The court went on to cite a bundle of top court judgments that acknowledged the right to choose a life partner as a fundamental right under Article 21. It referred to the Supreme Court judgment in the 2017 Shafin Jahan-Hadiya case, emphasising that the personal liberty of a person must be fully given effect to.

It said that lawyers who are not acting in the capacity of the officer of the court, but in other capacities like that of a friend or relative or social activist can perform marriages under Section 7-A of HMA. Advocates have many capacities. They are officers of the court. While acting as counsel/advocate, they should not undertake or volunteer to solemnise marriages. However, in their private capacity as friends as relatives, their roles as witnesses cannot be ruled out, it stated.

In the present case, the bench recorded the wishes of the woman that she wanted to live with the petitioner and allowed the mans plea.

Ends

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR Utkarsh Anand Utkarsh Anand is Legal Editor at the Hindustan Times. He writes on law, judiciary and governance. ...view detail
Ahead of the 2024 Lok sabha elections, political parties in Tamil Nadu can be seen shifting their focus towards the issues of the fishermens community. Tamil Nadu has the second longest coastline (1,076 km) after Gujarat (1,215 km) in the country. From Kanyakumari to Thiruvallur, 13 out of the 38 districts in the state have a shoreline, making the fishing community acting as a major vote bank for the upcoming parliamentary elections. From Kanyakumari to Thiruvallur, 13 out of the 38 districts in the state have a shoreline, making the fishing community acting as a major vote bank for the upcoming parliamentary elections (HT Photo)

At a conference organised by the Tamil Nadu Fishermen Association in Ramanathapuram district on August 18, chief minister M K Stalin had announced increasing financial assistance during the annual fishing ban from 5,000 to 8,000, along with other benefits.

A number of letters have been written to external affairs minister S Jaishankar, by the chief minister, opposition parties of All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), seeking release of Indian fishermen arrested by the Sri Lankan Navy. There is also a long standing demand to retrieve Katchatheevu Island from Lanka. One of the leaders of the fishermen community from Manapam in Ramanathapuram, P Jesuraja said that in the past few years though arrested fishermen have been sent back, the Lankan authorities have not returned their fishing boats after confiscating them.

Stalin blamed a weak BJP-led Union government for the attack on fishermen and accused them of not finding a lasting solution to the issue of fishing rights in the Palk Bay region.We want the Union government to use diplomatic channels to provide a mutually agreeable solution, which is long lasting, said a senior DMK leader. These incidents result in severe socio-economic repercussions on the affected families.

Stalins attack came a few days after the Prime Minister Narendra Modi had accused former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi and Stalins late father, M Karunanidhi for ceding Katchatheevu in 1974 to Sri Lanka. Katchatheevu is an island between Tamil Nadu and Sri Lanka. Somebody gave it to another country. It happened under the leadership of Indira Gandhi, Modi had said, on August 10, during his speech on no-confidence debate in the Parliament.

In July this year, Stalin had written to Modi ahead of Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremsinghes Delhi visit. The chief minister requested the Prime Minister to raise two main issues during their diplomatic talks  retrieval of Katchatheevu island and protection of traditional fishing rights of Indian fishermen, and ensuring the rights and freedom of the Tamil-speaking people in the island nation.

Politically, neither Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) nor AIADMK have a stronghold in these coastal communities, which tend to swing. The last leader to have dominated here was M G Ramachandran, founder of ADMK (later AIADMK). According to the 2010 census, the population of the fishermen community is 787,000, which is scattered across more than 600 marine fishing villages.

BJP leader and Union home minister Amit Shah flagged off Tamil Nadu party president K Annamalais padyatra en mann en makkal (my land, my people) from Rameshwarman in Ramanathapuram in July.

Meanwhile, leader of Opposition Edappadi Palaniswami (EPS) and expelled AIADMK leader O Panneerselvam (OPS) had also flagged the issue of 13 sea pirates attacking Tamil Nadu fishermen on August 22. EPS demanded the Tamil Nadu government to extend relief measures to affected fishermen, while OPS sought the intervention of the EAM Jaishankar. EPS instructed his party functionaries to extend relief measures to the victims.

EPS added that the AIADMK government had formed a coastal security group to ensure the safety and livelihood of the fishermen. But due to the incompetent DMK government, this unit is defunct, EPS said on August 22.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR Divya Chandrababu Divya Chandrababu is an award-winning political and human rights journalist based in Chennai, India. Divya is presently Assistant Editor of the Hindustan Times where she covers Tamil Nadu & Puducherry. She started her career as a broadcast journalist at NDTV-Hindu where she anchored and wrote prime time news bulletins. Later, she covered politics, development, mental health, child and disability rights for The Times of India. Divya has been a journalism fellow for several programs including the Asia Journalism Fellowship at Singapore and the KAS Media Asia- The Caravan for narrative journalism. Divya has a master's in politics and international studies from the University of Warwick, UK. As an independent journalist Divya has written for Indian and foreign publications on domestic and international affairs. ...view detail
New Delhi: Article 370 was an unconstitutional provision that remained operational for decades despite being inherently discriminatory, the Union government told the Supreme Court on Tuesday, emphasising that President had the complete authority to abrogate the provision. The Union government tells Supreme Court that the Article 370 was an unconstitutional provision. (ANI)

Any interpretation that saves continuance of Article 370 will amount to an unconstitutional provision to remain in the Indian Constitution...Unconstitutional because it was inherently discriminatory, solicitor general Tushar Mehta submitted before a Constitution bench, headed by Chief Justice of India Dhananjaya Y Chandrachud.

Defending the 2019 decision by the Centre to nullify Article 370 and restructure J&K into two Union territories on the twelfth day of the arguments in the case, the law officer maintained that Article 370 was always meant to be a temporary provision and that is why it is the only provision containing the self-destructive mechanism of how to abrogate it.

Under Article 370, two authorities, namely the President and the Chief Minister of J&K, could amend or alter any other provision of the Indian Constitution. Considering the wide expanse of the power under Article 370, such a provision can never be intended to be a permanent provision. The Constitution cannot remain a floating document just for one state, he said.

According to S-G, Article 370 is the only provision in the Constitution that laid down how it could be abrogated by the President following a recommendation of the J&K constituent assembly. It is the only provision that has an in-built self-destructing clause, which is also a pointer that it was meant to be temporary. Additionally, we cannot have a provision to continue perpetually that allows the Indian Constitution and central laws to apply only upon the consent of the legislative assembly of a state, Mehta said.

President, S-G said, is the sole repository of power for abrogating Article 370 after the J&K constituent assembly dissolved in 1957. And this power was coupled with the duty to act in the interest of the people. The J&K constituent assembly was only given an option to make a recommendation regarding abrogating Article 370, but that cannot restrict the President from doing it at a later point in time. If the Presidents power is taken away, it could lead to a devastating situation which was never envisaged by the Constitution makers. It would mean the Presidents power is dependent upon some outside body, Mehta contended.

The law officer maintained that the highest court of the land cannot countenance a situation where a provision in the Constitution can be made to exist by rendering the Presidents power nugatory and lead to a position where even the basic structure of the Constitution can be violated.

Mehta said that the J&K Constitution cannot be equated with the Constitution of India because the former was not meant to be an instrument of governance for a sovereign.

Appreciating the S-Gs submission, the bench pointed out that Section 5 of the J&K Constitution provided that the executive and legislative power of the State extends to all matters except those with respect to which Parliament has power to make laws for the State under the provisions of the Constitution of India.

Progressively, Parliament applied several provisions of the Indian Constitution to J&K and extended its fold. This shows that it (J&K Constitution) was always intended to be subservient to the Constitution of India. It was never intended to be equal, said the court.

Supporting Mehta, attorney general R Venkataramani, also appearing for the Centre, said that the abrogation was necessary for the constitutional and complete integration of J&K with the Union of India.

As the hearing drew to a close on Tuesday, the bench remarked the wide chasm between absolute autonomy, as it existed in 1950, and complete integration, as it was brought about in August 2019, had been substantially bridged by what was happening in between.

So, it was not really a migration from an absolute autonomy to absolute integration. Its obvious that a substantial degree if integration had already taken place between 1950 and 2019. Therefore, one of the interesting points in this case is that what was done in 2019, was it a logical step forward to achieve that integration? it said.

The court will resume its hearing on August 31.

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Days after mixing up Rakesh Sharma and Rakesh Roshan, West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee, in a fresh gaffe, said on Monday that former prime minister Indira Gandhi 'went to the Moon.' West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee in Kolkata. (PTI file)

When Indira Gandhi reached the Moon, she asked Rakesh (Sharma) how does Hindustan (India) look from there. He replied Sare jahaan se achcha (the best in the world), India Today quoted Banerjee as saying.

The All India Trinamool Congress (AITC) supremo was addressing a rally on the occasion of the foundation day anniversary of the Trinamool Chhatra Parishad (TMCP), the party's student wing.

Videos of the Bengal CM's latest gaffe were widely shared on X, the social network previously known as Twitter.

Mamata Banerjee on Chandrayaan-3

Last week, while congratulating the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) on the success of its ambitious Chandrayaan-3 mission, the veteran leader said India Gandhi asked Rakesh Roshan how India looks from the Moon.

Except, it was Rakesh Sharma, then a pilot with the Indian Air Force (IAF), and not director-actor Rakesh Roshan, the father of actor Hrithik Roshan. Also, Sharma did not go to the Moon; he flew to the then-Soviet Union's Salyut 7 Orbital Station in the low Earth orbit, participating in a Soviet space mission.

The Gandhi-Sharma conversation took place in April 1984. The latter, now 74, is also the only Indian national to go to space.

Chandrayaan-3

Banerjee's aforementioned slip of tongue came on August 23, shortly after ISRO successfully soft-landed Chandrayaan-3's lander module on the lunar surface, making India only the fourth country to achieve the Moon soft-landing. The United States, Russia and China are the others.

Also, the lander module touched down at the celestial body's South Pole, its intended destination. India is, therefore, the only nation to reach the lunar South Pole.

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PANAJI: Two women have been arrested on charges of extortion in Goa following accusations that they honey-trapped men and held out threats of filing rape charges against them to extort money from them, police said on Tuesday. North Goa SP Nidhin Valsan said the antecedents of the two women emerged during investigation into a rape case filed by one of the two women (Getty Images/iStockphoto)

A Goa police officer said investigators have already detected three rape cases filed by the two women in Goa and another two in Gujarat.

North Goa superintendent of police (SP) Nidhin Valsan said the district police also registered a rape case on the basis of the complaint of one of the two women on August 23. During the investigation, the police inspector noticed that the woman filed a similar case of rape in two other cases. Since she was a resident of Gujarat, we reached out to the Gujarat Police and noticed that she was a complainant in two other cases of rape registered in Gujarat, Valsan said.

The two women, and their third accomplice, Vishwadeep Gohil of Gujarats Bhavnagar town, have been arrested under sections 386 (extortion) and 120B (criminal conspiracy) of the Indian Penal Code and are in police custody.

Valsan didnt elaborate on the alleged role of the three individuals. The details of these cases are being obtained from the police stations concerned and further investigation is in progress, Valsan added.

The arrests were made on a complaint by Kiran Patel, the man who was accused of raping them, on Monday. Patel alleged that the two women, who developed a friendship with him, threatened to file rape charges against him if he didnt pay 2 lakh.

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Raksha Bandhan 2023: The significant Hindu festival of Raksha Bandhan, which celebrates the special bond between brothers and sisters, is just around the corner. The auspicious festival will be celebrated with much pomp and enthusiasm on 30 and 31 August this year. Our excitement is at its peak and we can't wait to dress up in traditional attire and decorate the thali with Rakhi and sweets for our adorable siblings. On this day, sisters tie the auspicious thread known as Rakhi on their brother's wrist, symbolising their love and concern for their brother's welfare, while in return the brother offers gifts and promises of eternal protection and support. However, in modern times, sisters also celebrate the festival by tying Rakhi on each other's wrists. (Also read: Raksha Bandhan 2023: Easy and trendy styling tips for a glamorous Rakhi look ) Get ready to give yourself a stunning transformation by taking inspiration from these fashionable B-town siblings.(Instagram)

While the countdown has begun, we hope you have decided on your stunning ethnic outfits for the festival, as dressing up is an essential part of Indian festivals. If you're still confused and don't know what to wear, don't worry, we've got you covered. When it comes to fashion and style, nobody does it like our Bollywood celebrities. Get ready to give yourself a stunning transformation by taking inspiration from these fashionable B-town siblings.

Most fashionable brother-sister duos of Bollywood

1. Sara Ali Khan and Ibrahim Ali Khan

Sara Ali Khan and Ibrahim Ali Khan are one of the most fashionable siblings in Bollywood. Sara often shares pictures from her photoshoots and the siblings are often seen arriving in style together at Bollywood parties and are often spotted hanging out together. Their style is effortlessly chic. While Sara loves to experiment with bright colours and quirky prints, Ibrahim, like his father, prefers to keep his styling understated with neural tones.

2. Janhvi Kapoor and Arjun Kapoor

The Kapoor siblings never fail to make a fashion statement. Gen Z style icon Janhvi Kapoor and her stylish brother Arjun Kapoor leave no stone unturned when it comes to flaunting their fashion prowess. Janhvi loves glitz and glamour and is often seen in glamorous bodycon dresses and figure-hugging gowns. While Arjun is known for his dapper look and is often seen in blue shirts and pantsuits. If you are looking for style inspiration, this is the ideal sibling.

3. Huma Qureshi and Saqib Saleem

Next on the list is the stunning Huma Qureshi and her younger brother Saleem. Huma is a true fashionista and her vibe is power dressing. The actress loves to dress up in chic pantsuits and exude the ultimate boss babe vibe. While Saleem is no less stylish, he is often seen in quirky printed shirts and stylish denim ensembles.

4. Saif Ali Khan and Soha Ali Khan

Saif Ali Khan is known for his elegant and stylish looks. Whether he wears casual denim jeans or a traditional kurta, Saif always exudes royalty. Soha Ali Khan is a total stunner, the actress may not be very active when it comes to acting, but when it comes to fashion, she knows how to turn heads. Soha's Insta diaries are full of stylish looks in casual and ethnic outfits that provide a treasure trove of fashion inspiration for all her followers.

5. Suhana Khan and Aryan Khan

Talking about fashionable siblings and not mentioning Suhana Khan and Aryan Khan is not fair. Style and flair are in their genes. The duo are always making fashion statements when they are spotted. Suhana's Instagram feed can be your perfect fashion inspiration as the Gen Z star knows how to nail fashion goals like a pro. While her brother Aryan Khan may not be very active on social media, he is quite a stunner with his killer looks in casual outfits.

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Narali Poornima is an important Hindu festival celebrated primarily in Maharashtra and Konkan regions by fishermen community. On this day, people observe a day-long fast, decorate their boats, and pray to Lord Varun to bless them with fortune and prevent them from any natural sea calamities. (Also read: Raksha Bandhan 2023: Why are we celebrating Rakhi on two days this year? Know details) Naralu Purnima is known as Avani Avittam in South Indian states of Kerala, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. (Freepik)

Narali means coconut and Poornima means full moon, and the day falls on the full moon day or Purnima in the month of Shravana as per Hindu calendar. The day coincides with Raksha Bandhan, the festival that celebrates bond between siblings and thus it's double celebration for many families of Maharasthra, Karnataka, Goa among other states. This year, much like Raksha Bandhan, the shubh muhurat of the day will start from 9 pm on August 30 and will go on around 7 am on August 31.

Naralu Purnima is known as Avani Avittam in South Indian states of Kerala, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. The states of North India like Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, and Chhattisgarh call it Kajri Purnima.

On this day, Brahmins get up at sunrise and take a holy dip in a nearby water body. Brahmins wear a new sacred thread called as Janeyu or Yajnopavit on this day. Vedic mantras are then chanted during this time. It is usually a community observance that is performed on the banks of a river or pond.

The Kolis and other fishing communities offer nariyal or coconut to Lord Varuna or ocean and seek his blessings. The devotees pray to the Lord and express gratitude for giving them a livelihood.

Some people also worship Lord Shiva on this day considering the month of Shravan is dedicated to him. After puja, comes the time for feasting and merry making as people of fishermen community come together for singing, dancing and eating.

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In what is being seen as a response to OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, Reliance Industries Limited (RIL) chairman Mukesh Ambani on Monday announced that RIL's Jio would bring new artificial intelligence (AI) systems, similar to OpenAI's ChatGPT, for Indians. Reliance Industries Chairman Mukesh Ambani speaks during the 46th Annual General Meeting of Reliance Industries Limited, on Monday, (PTI)

Jio promises AI to everyone, everywhere. And we shall deliver, Ambani said at Reliance's 46th Annual General Meeting (AGM).

The 66-year-old richest Asian further stated: Looking ahead, Jio Platforms wants to lead the effort in developing India-specific AI models and AI-powered solutions across domains, thereby delivering the benefit of AI to Indian citizens, businesses and government alike.

Launched in September 2016, Jio is today India's largest mobile operator. At Monday's AGM, Ambani noted that Jio's subscriber count stands at over 450 million (45 crore) since launch.

Sam Altman on ChatGPT and India

The 38-year-old OpenAI CEO visited the country in June. During an interaction with former Google India head Rajan Anandan, Altman described India's attempts at building a ChatGPT-like AI tool as hopeless.

We will explicitly tell you that it's completely hopeless to challenge us in training foundational models, and you shouldn't even attempt it. However, it is your responsibility to still make the attempt, and I genuinely hold both of these perspectives. I genuinely believe that the chances of success are quite slim, he remarked.

Later, however, he issued a clarification, saying in a social media post that his statement got misinterpreted and taken out of context.

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A job recruitment poster from Singapore for a service and kitchen crew has intrigued netizens. The reason? Well, the job not only offers a good salary but also has some amazing employee benefits. After looking at the poster, several people have expressed that they want to join this company. Snapshot of the job posting shared by a company in Singapore.(Twitter/@GabbarSingh)

The job poster was shared on Twitter by user @GabbarSingh. In the caption of the post, the user wrote, "A recruitment poster outside a restaurant here in Singapore. Look at the perks."

The image in the tweet shows all the perks the Singapore company offers. Some of the employee benefits include staff allowances, medical benefits, yearly sponsored dental benefits, meal provisions, annual increment leave, study leave, and much more. (Also Read: Restaurant's creative-looking pizza menu goes viral. Here's why)

Take a look at this job recruitment poster from Singapore here:

This post was shared on August 25. Since being posted, it has received more than 75,000 views. The share has also garnered over 300 likes and several comments.

Here's what people are saying about this post:

An individual wrote, "Better than corporate job lol." A second added, "This is what a good company is, actually caring about their employees." "We see them as perks because we don't find them being offered here. They see them as their minimum responsibility towards their employees," expressed a third.

A fourth commented, "Here in Singapore, almost every restaurant is always hiring and has similar perks and benefits." A fifth said, "Far better than many established businesses in any developing economy."

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A dance video of a college student tapping her feet to Sheila Ki Jawani from the 2010 film Tees Maar Khan has grabbed the attention of thousands. Many people loved her energetic performance. Snapshot of the woman dancing to the song Sheila Ki Jawani.(Instagram/@Adheena Sudheesh)

The video opens to show a woman dressed in a white-coloured long skirt and red top. Several students around her are also dressed in ethnic attire. As the song Sheila Ki Jawani plays, she gives a power-packed performance to it. As she dances, onlookers cheer her on and applaud her moves. (Also Read: South Korean boy band dances to SRK's Koi Mil Gaya. Watch)

Watch the video of the woman dancing to the song Sheila Ki Jawani here:

This post was shared six days ago. Since being posted, it has been viewed more than 5.1 million times. The post has also garnered several likes and comments. (Also Read: Kili Paul and Neema Paul dance to Tamannah Bhatia, Rajinikanths Kaavaalaa)

Check out what people are saying about this performance here:

An individual wrote, Those moves," and added a heart eyes emoji in front of it. Another said, "You are on fire!" "You killed it, dude," posted a third. A fourth expressed, "Amazing energy level." A fifth commented, "Such amazing energy."

Several others have reacted to the video using heart and clapping hands emoji. What are your thoughts on this dance performance?

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A viral video of a few crew members standing on a wing of a plane has drawn criticism from their company, Swiss International Air Lines. As per reports, the airline management has labelled the incident as unprofessional and extremely dangerous. They also added that the crew members are allowed to climb onto the wing only in case of emergency evacuation. The image shows crew members perched on top of a wing of a plane. (X/@aviationbrk)

What does the video show?

The video was posted on the X handle Breaking Aviation News & Videos. SWISS cabin crew in serious trouble for taking selfies on a 777 wing in Buenos Aires, reads the caption shared along with the video.

The clip opens to show a female crew member standing on the wing. Soon, she enters inside the plane and her place is taken by a male crew member who goes on to show a few poses.

The video was taken a few days ago in Buenos Aires, shortly before the return flight to Zurich via Sao Paulo. According to the airline, there were no passengers on board at the time. Instead, they were able to watch the dangerous action of the crew from the terminal, the handle added.

How did the airline respond?

"What looks like fun in the video is life-threatening, Michael Pelzer, a Swiss Airline spokesperson, told the Sun. "The wings of the Boeing 777 are about five meters (16.4 feet) high. A fall from that height onto the hard surface can be devastating, he added.

This behavior will not be tolerated. The behaviour of the employees in the video neither corresponds to our security requirements nor does it reflect the high level of professionalism of our employees, he further said.

Take a look at the video of the airline crew members:

The video was posted on August 25. Since being shared, it has gone viral. Till now, the clip has accumulated over one million views. The share has also gathered several comments. While some criticised the incident, a few spoke in the support of the crew members.

Also Read: Woman dances inside plane as passengers wait for her to move

Oh, very professional. Will take a pass on Swiss going forward, posted an X user. They were testing the sturdiness for emergency exit, joked another. This is so risky, added a third.

Theyre just enjoying, leave them alone, shared a fourth. Calm down! Those wings can support the weight of a human. Let them have their pictures, wrote a fifth.

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A story about a dad going the extra mile to surprise his daughter has tugged at the hearts of netizens. He dressed up in a dress and wig while attending a programme at her school. The image shows the dress-wearing dad with his daughter. (Facebook/Prachya Deebu)

Prachya Deebu, the 48-year-old man also took to Facebook to share a picture of himself with his daughter while attending the mother's day celebrations at her school. In Thailand, unlike May 12, this day is celebrated on August 12 each year. On this day or a day prior to it, various schools across the country organise programmes where students show their love and respect for their mothers.

For the Mother's Day celebrations at his daughter's school, Deebu put on a white and black chequered dress. He is also seen sporting a long-haired wig. The picture also shows his 15-year-old daughter, Nattawadee Kornjan, sitting in front of him with a wide smile on her face.

"Even though I am a single father and her stepfather, I always tell Cream that she is my daughter, and I love her like my own biological child," reports Mashable Asia, quoting a local outlet. Deebu adopted Kornjan, whom he affectionately calls Cream, when she was a kid. "I will do my best as both father and mother in order to take care of my girl, Deebu also said while talking more about his relationship with his daughter.

Take a look at this sweet picture of the dad and his daughter:

The post was shared on August 11, the post has left people amazed. Till now, it has received close to 14,000 reactions and counting. Additionally, it has been re-shared nearly 1,500 times.

Many people took to the comments section to share their reactions. Believe me, your child loves you as much as you love your child, reads a comment when translated from Thai. Very cute, posted another. Several others echoed the same emoticon and called the mans getsure adorable. A third added, A fathers heart is so big. A fourth added, Awesome. I bow my head. A fifth wrote, Dad is so cool.

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Vivek Ramaswamy, the biotech entrepreneur and a candidate for the 2024 US presidential election, is trying to avoid a deposition in a lawsuit over a corporate deal that he was involved in. FILE PHOTO: Former biotech executive Vivek Ramaswamy speaks at the first Republican candidates' debate of the 2024 U.S. presidential campaign in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, U.S. August 23, 2023. REUTERS/Brian Snyder/File Photo(REUTERS)

The lawsuit was filed by Alpine Partners, an investment firm that owned about 6.6% of Myovant Sciences Ltd., a company that develops drugs for womens health.

Myovant was a subsidiary of Roivant Sciences, Ramaswamys main biotech venture, until it was acquired by Sumitovant Biopharma in March 2023 for $1.7 billion.

Sumitovant Biopharma was created in 2019 by a merger between Roivant and Sumitomo Dainippon Pharma, a Japanese pharmaceutical company.

Ramaswamy was a board member of both Roivant and Sumitovant until he resigned to run for president.

ALSO READ| From Oregon to Texas: NASA announces ring of fire solar eclipse across the US in October, check details

Alpine and other shareholders of Myovant claim that they were not paid fairly for their shares in the deal and want Ramaswamy to testify about how he valued the company. They also want him to produce documents related to the negotiation of the deal.

The 38-year-old, however, argues that he has no relevant information to offer and that the deposition would interfere with his presidential campaign. He says he has to travel across the country to meet voters, give speeches, do media interviews, and participate in debates.

As a candidate for President of the United States, I must frequently travel across the United States to campaign, make speeches, give media interviews, and meet with voters, Ramaswamy said in a court filing on July 27, first reported by DailyMail.

The subpoena request and resulting discovery would therefore constitute an undue burden and will materially affect my ability to run for higher office, he added.

His lawyers also accuse Alpine of trying to harass him with the subpoena.

But Alpines lawyers counter that Ramaswamy played a key role in approving the deal and likely had discussions about the price and terms of the merger.

The case is still pending in a federal court in Ohio.

ALSO READ| Republican candidate Vivek Ramaswamy says politicising Jacksonville tragedy not the answer, calls for unity

The Indian-origin outsider has a net worth of over $950 million according to Forbes, is a political newcomer who impressed many viewers with his performance in the first Republican primary debate last week. He is currently in third place in the polls among the GOP contenders, according to RealClearPolitics.

He is not the only 2024 hopeful who is facing legal troubles. Donald Trump, who leads the GOP field, is facing 91 criminal charges in four different cases, all of which he denies.
California became the first American state with a anti-caste discrimination bills when the California State Assembly approved the SB 403 bill on August 28th. This legislation, designed to amend anti-discrimination laws, aims to counteract bias against marginalized communities. California State Assembly passes anti-caste discrimination bill, becoming the first US state to address caste discrimination through legislation.(X/scribe_it)

The California state senate had earlier given its nod to this legislation, making California poised to become the first US state to incorporate caste as a safeguarded category in its anti-discrimination laws.

The bill's sponsor, California State Senator Aisha Wahab, emphasized the importance of preventing discrimination linked to caste within organizations and companies. She stated earlier this year, "We want to ensure organisations and companies do not entrench caste discrimination in their practices or policies, and in order to do that we need to make it plainly clear that discrimination based on caste is against the law."

If passed, California will set a precedent by becoming the first state in the US to address caste discrimination through such legislation. The bill has gained traction with support from groups advocating for equality and fairness.

In response to todays Assembly vote, the Hindu American Foundations Executive Director, Suhag Shukla said, Today is a sad day. California has reawakened its racist past in passing legislation that demonizes and targets South Asians and Hindus. Fifty California legislators chose to side with anti-Hindu hate groups rather than showing moral courage and upholding the Constitution. When a state legislator pushes a law with the intent of targeting an ethnic community, its not only racist, its unconstitutional. We will explore every option to protect the rights of Hindu Californians. To the 27 legislators who abstained and the three who voted no, thank you for standing on the side of equality and justice.

Ambedkar Association of North America (AANA) praised the decision and wrote, Landmark. Historic. Unprecedented. We are proud to share that California state assembly passed anti caste discrimination bill #SB403 with overwhelming majority. This is what Educate, Agitate and Organize looks like.

California has encountered caste-related discussions previously. The state currently prohibits discrimination based on factors such as national origin, race, religion, and sexual orientation. The case against Cisco in 2020 raised awareness about caste discrimination, resulting in tech companies introducing educational workshops on the topic.

Apple, headquartered in Cupertino, adapted its employee conduct policy to explicitly prohibit caste discrimination in 2020. Furthermore, both the California Democratic Party and the State University system incorporated anti-caste provisions.
A Chicago television news crew which was reporting on a string of robberies ended up being robbed themselves after they were accosted at gunpoint by three armed men wearing ski masks. The incident happened when Spanish-language station Univision Chicago's reporter and photographer were filming in Chicago's West Town neighborhood. Three masked men with firearms robbed them, taking their television camera and other items. Chicago: Three masked men with firearms robbed them, taking their television camera and other items.(Representational)

They were approached with guns and robbed. Mainly it was personal items, and they took a camera, Luis Godinez, vice president of news at Univision Chicago said, adding that the news crew was filming a story about robberies in the West Town community that was scheduled to be part of the morning news. The footage that the crew shot was in the stolen camera and the story never made it on the air, he said.

Chicago police identified the victims as a 28-year-old man and 42-year-old man. The pair was outside when the three men drove up in a gray sedan and black SUV, the police said. No injuries were reported and no one is in custody, police informed.

This marks the second robbery involving a Chicago news crew this month as a WLS-TV photographer was assaulted and robbed on August 8 while preparing to cover an afternoon news conference on Chicago's West Side.

The robberies prompted the National Association of Broadcast Employees and Technicians Local 41 which represents TV photographers in Chicago to warn about the growing safety threats.

Our news photographers and reporters provide a very important public service in keeping our community informed. We are committed to making sure that their safety comes first," Raza Siddiqui, president of the union local, said.

Some of the news stations affiliated with the union planned to take additional safety steps, he said.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR Mallika Soni When not reading, this ex-literature student can be found searching for an answer to the question, "What is the purpose of journalism in society?" ...view detail
A magnitude 5.4 earthquake hit Panama some 37 miles (59 km) from the Caribbean island of Nargana, the United States Geological Survey said on Monday. Shaking was briefly felt in the capital Panama City. There were no immediate reports of damages. (Representative Image)

The Central American country's IGC Geoscience Institute had issued a preliminary report estimating a magnitude of 6.2. There were no immediate reports of damages.

Indonesia hit by earthquake

Earlier today, a strong earthquake of 7.0 magnitude struck deep in the sea north of Bali and Lombok islands in Indonesia, the European-Mediterranean Seismological Centre (EMSC) said, sending residents running out of buildings.

The quake's epicentre was 203 km (126 miles) north of Mataram, Indonesia, and very deep at 516 km below the Earth's surface, EMSC said.

Indonesian and U.S. geological agencies pegged the magnitude at 7.1, with no threat of a tsunami.

The quake was felt just before 4 a.m. (2000 GMT) across coastal areas in Bali and Lombok and was followed by two quakes of magnitude 6.1 and 6.5, according to the Indonesian geological agency.

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In a possible murder-suicide, a Florida mom killed her two children before killing herself afterlosing a child custody battle with her ex. Brandy Hutchins allegedly turned the gun on herself after killing her 10-year-old son and 19-year-old daughter. The incident took place inside the familys mobile home. Brandys daughter had a different father, and was not involved in the custody battle. (Getty Images - representational)(HT_PRINT)

Earlier, a judge had ordered that Brandy turn her son over to his father, her ex, who lives in Maine, the Polk County sheriff said, according to New York Post. While she was expected to relinquish custody of her son last week, she failed to show up for the appointment, thereby violating the court order. Deputies tried to find the boy, identified as Aiden Hutchins by his father, over the weekend. However, they discovered his body, along with his half-sisters and mothers, in a Lake Wales home on Sunday, August 27, according to Sheriff Grady Judd.

He will forever be in my heart

Aidens father took to social media to share the news of his sons death.It is with a heavy heart that I am writing this to give everyone an update about my son Aiden Hutchins who was missing and taken by his mother on August 25 2023 who decided to murder him.. he was killed by her today August 27 2023.. he will forever be in my heart and did not deserve this. Rest in peace my sweet boy I will see you again. I love you, Hutchins Race wrote on Facebook, sharing photos of Aiden.

Brandy Hutchins from every indication in our investigation now has murdered her 10-year-old child and her 19-year-old child  murdered them and then subsequent to that, she shot herself, Sheriff Grady said during a press conference. I cant imagine a more horrific set of circumstances. Grady added, There was no indication that there should be any violence.
Robert ONeill, the former Navy SEAL who claims to have killed Osama bin Laden, was arrested last week in Texas after he allegedly assaulted and racially abused a hotel security guard. ONeill turned violent and hit the guard in the chest with his right palm and used racial slurs(AP Photo)

According to the Frisco Police Department, ONeill was drunk and asleep at a bar inside the Omni at The Star Hotel on Wednesday.

The hotel is located next to the Dallas Cowboys headquarters in Frisco.

A security guard, whose name was not disclosed, offered to help ONeill get to his room on the fifth floor using a wheelchair. ONeill refused the wheelchair and accepted the guards assistance.

However, when they reached his room, ONeill turned violent and hit the guard in the chest with his right palm. He also called him a fu**ing n**er twice, the guard told the police.

The guard managed to escape from ONeill and reported the incident to his co-workers. He was injured so badly that he needed medical attention. The nature of his injury was redacted from the police report.

ALSO READ| Former Navy SEAL Robert ONeill: 10 things you ought to know about the Osama "killer"

The police arrived at the scene and found ONeill trying to open his room with a credit card. They noticed that he smelled of alcohol and had red glassy eyes. He refused to answer their questions and kept saying, We good.

He also told them that he thought he was in Addison, another suburb of Dallas that is about 30 minutes away from Frisco.

However, on Monday, the former Navy Seal denied "ever using this horrible language."

I categorically deny ever using this horrible language recently reported.

His statement is yet to be proven.

ONeill, 47, was charged with assault causing bodily injury, a Class A misdemeanor, and public intoxication, a Class C misdemeanor. He was released on bond and celebrated his wedding anniversary over the weekend.

ONeill denied the allegations made by the guard and said he never used a racial slur against anyone.

I have honorably and proudly served my country for half my life in battles all over the world, standing shoulder to shoulder with men of all races, religions and sexual orientations, ONeill quoted to The New York Post.

The color of ones skin doesnt matter when your life is on the line. The idea that I would use a racial slur against anyone is so preposterous, so beyond offensive to not only myself but all of my brothers who have served and fought with me; I deny it in the strongest terms.

ONeill is a former member of SEAL Team 6 who rose to fame after he claimed that he was the one who shot and killed Osama bin Laden during a secret raid in Pakistan in 2011. He wrote about his experience in his 2017 memoir The Operator. The US government has neither confirmed nor denied his claim.

ONeill had traveled to Dallas to record a podcast. He is known for being outspoken and controversial. In 2020, he was banned by Delta Airlines for refusing to wear a mask.

ALSO READ| Navy SEAL Robert ONeill who killed Osama bin Laden celebrates wedding anniversary days after arrest

Back in 2016, he faced a DUI arrest in Montana, although the charges were subsequently dismissed, as highlighted by CBS News.

He supporter of Armed Forces Brewing Co., a microbrewery based in Virginia. This particular venture emerged during a period of heightened discussion surrounding Bud Light's association with LGBTQ influencer Dylan Mulvaney.

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The forest blaze in Greece is "the largest wildfire ever recorded in the EU" as the bloc mobilised nearly half its firefighting air wing to tackle it, a European commission spokesman said. Eleven planes and one helicopter from the EU fleet have been sent to help Greece counter fires in the Dadia National Park, north of the city of Alexandroupoli. Over 400 firefighters are involved in the operations as Greece has been ravaged by numerous fires this summer which the government attributed to climate change. Greece Wildfires: Burnt trees in a forest following a wildfire in the National Park of Dadia, Alexandroupolis, Greece.(Bloomberg)

Greece's fire service told news agency AFP that "the fire is still out of control" in the reserve, a major sanctuary for birds of prey. It is raging across a nearly 10-kilometre (six-mile) front. We do know that fires are getting more severe. If you look at the figures every year in the past years, we are seeing trends which are not necessarily favourable, and that calls for of course more capacities at the member states' level.

The wildfire has been burning in northeastern Greece for 11 days and has destroyed an area larger than New York City, the European Union-backed Copernicus climate change service said. The fire began near the city of Alexandroupolis and quickly spread across the Evros region killing at least 20 people last week in Europe's deadliest blaze this summer.

The Copernicus emergency management service said the fire had ravaged at least 808.7 square kilometres. New York City takes up 778.2 square miles. Last week that the fire was the largest on European soil in years, Copernicus noted.

Aircraft and hundreds of firefighters on the ground, including from Serbia, Slovakia, the Czech Republic and Albania have been battling the flames, the fire brigade said as authorities warned that risks from the fire remained high.

Summer wildfires are common in Greece but the government says extreme weather conditions have made them worse this year. Greece's deadliest fire on record killed 104 people outside Athens in 2018.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR Mallika Soni When not reading, this ex-literature student can be found searching for an answer to the question, "What is the purpose of journalism in society?" ...view detail
Pope Francis did not intend to glorify Russian imperialism when he extolled tsars that expanded the Russian empire, the Vatican said on Tuesday, after his remarks in a speech last week were criticised by Ukraine. Pope Francis(AP)

Francis had told Russian youths in unscripted remarks following a speech on Friday to remember that they are the heirs of past tsars such as Peter I and Catherine II.

The two monarchs expanded Russia's empire in the 17th and 18th centuries, including conquering parts of Ukraine, and President Vladimir Putin has referred to their legacies in justifying his invasion and annexation of territory last year.

"The pope intended to encourage young people to preserve and promote all that is positive in the great Russian cultural and spiritual heritage, and certainly not to exalt imperialist logic and government personalities, (which he) mentioned to indicate some historical periods of reference," Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni said in a statement.

Kyiv called the remarks "deeply regrettable".

The Kremlin, meanwhile, described the pope's comments as very gratifying, saying that the Russian state had a rich legacy and that it was good that the Pope knew Russian history.

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As Hurricane Idalia takes aim at Florida's western coast, airports in the region are facing a wave of flight cancellations, aiming to ensure passenger safety during the storm. This image obtained from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), shows tropical Storm Idalia (bottom right) approaching Cuba on August 28, 2023. Tropical Storm Idalia strengthened as it neared Cuba and the abnormally hot waters of the Gulf of Mexico on Monday, with forecasters predicting it could become a major hurricane before roaring ashore in Florida this week.(AFP)

Punta Gorda Airport, located just 75 miles south of Tampa, has been hit particularly hard, canceling a remarkable 100% of its inbound flights. Meanwhile, Tampa International Airport, a key hub for the area, has not remained unscathed either. It has called off 84% of its inbound flights and 88% of outbound flights, according to data from FlightAware.

Tampa International Airport moved swiftly, suspending its operations shortly after midnight on Tuesday. The airport plans to reopen once damages have been assessed, tentatively targeting Thursday as the reopening date. St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport also plans to close early on Tuesday afternoon in response to the approaching storm.

The predicted landfall of Hurricane Idalia as a potent category 3 hurricane on Florida's northwest coast is causing significant disruptions. Thunderstorms and strong winds are expected to impact several airports, including Naples and Fort Myers, as early as Tuesday afternoon. By nighttime, the storm's effects are projected to extend to Orlando and Gainesville.

Beyond Florida's borders, the FAA warns of delays affecting airports like Miami, Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood, Atlanta, and Charlotte. The domino effect of these cancellations is rippling outward. Passengers relying on airports such as Tallahassee International, Gainesville Regional, and Southwest Florida International are urged to stay connected with their airlines for the latest flight status updates.

As of Tuesday morning, the count stands at 452 canceled flights into or out of the United States. This vividly underscores the extensive reach of Hurricane Idalia's impact on air travel. While the storm's approach undoubtedly disrupts the aviation landscape, safety remains the top priority as the affected airports and passengers weather the challenges together.
Idalia strengthened to hurricane strength on Tuesday morning as it plowed past Cuba into the Gulf of Mexico. The National Hurricane Center warned that the storm could rapidly intensify and become an extremely dangerous major hurricane before landfall on Wednesday. This image obtained from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), shows Hurricane Idalia (C R) moving into the Gulf of Mexico on August 29, 2023, at 12h36UTC. Idalia strengthened into a hurricane on August 29 as forecasters predicted it would intensify and become "extremely dangerous" before making landfall in the US state of Florida. "Idalia now a hurricane. Expected to rapidly intensify into an extremely dangerous major hurricane before landfall on Wednesday," the National Hurricane Center (NHC) said in a 0900GMT public advisory. (AFP)

Idalia was centered about 320 miles southwest of Tampa and had maximum sustained winds of 80 mph. A hurricane warning was issued along hundreds of miles of Florida coastline.

"Rapid intensification is likely through landfall," said National Hurricane Center specialist Eric Blake. "Idalia is forecast to become an extremely dangerous major hurricane before landfall on Wednesday."
Residents along Florida's west coast were ordered to evacuate ahead of Hurricane Idalia's arrival, as forecasters warned that the storm was strengthening over an exceptionally warm Gulf of Mexico. Idalia would likely become "extremely dangerous" before landfall as the US National Hurricane Center (NHC) said that it had become a Category 1 hurricane overnight ahead of which it brought tropical storm conditions to western Cuba. Idalia In Florida Updates: An avocado vender works in a street flooded by rain brought by Hurricane Idalia in Havana, Cuba.(AP)

Warm Gulf waters near 31 degrees Celsius (88 degrees Fahrenheit) are expected to intensify Idalia into an "extremely dangerous major hurricane before landfall on Wednesday," the NHC said.

Florida governor Ron DeSantis urged those in the evacuation areas along the Gulf coast to go "now."

"You don't have to go hundreds of miles," he said urging residents in the 23 counties under evacuation orders to get to shelters or hotels that were out of the danger zones.

"This is going to be a major hurricane, likely a Category 3," he said.

Idalia is expected to make impact farther north along the coast, an area which Ron DeSantis said "hasn't had a major hurricane in a long time."

"It is a lot of woods and forest and you will see a lot of debris," the governor said. US president Joe Biden spoke with Ron DeSantis and approved an emergency declaration for the state promising his full support, a White House spokesman said.

The Tampa International Airport also closed for the storm while the nearby US Air Force base has ordered a mandatory evacuation of non-mission essential individuals and dependents. Georgia and South Carolina are also under storm watches. Flash and urban flooding may hit parts of Florida and southern Georgia into Wednesday, the NHC said.

The US Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is preparing for the storm's impact, including by deploying some of its staff, the White House said.

Idalia damage in Cuba and Mexico

Cuba authorities declared a hurricane alert for the provinces of Pinar del Rio and Artemisa as well as Isla de la Juventud as thousands of Cubans evacuated or fled ahead of the storm, news agency AFP reported. Cuban state media said about 8,000 people had left their homes to seek shelter with family or friends in Pinar del Rio.

Idalia also dumped rain on Mexico's state of Quintana Roo.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR Mallika Soni When not reading, this ex-literature student can be found searching for an answer to the question, "What is the purpose of journalism in society?" ...view detail
International Monetary Fund chief Kristalina Georgieva will visit China Wednesday ahead of scheduled stops in two other Asian countries, a spokesperson said. Kristalina Georgieva, managing director of the International Monetary Fund (IMF). (MINT_PRINT)

"During August 30 to September 3, the Managing Director will be visiting China to engage in bilateral discussions with China's senior leadership team," the IMF spokesperson said on Tuesday.

During a visit to Beijing earlier this year, Georgieva said that she expected 2023 to be "another challenging year", and that uncertainty was "exceptionally high".

The IMF chief urged China's policymakers in March to seek to raise productivity and rebalance the economy away from investment and towards more durable consumption-driven growth.

The IMF forecasts 5.2-percent growth in China's GDP this year.

Last month, the IMF slightly upgraded its outlook for world growth this year on the back of resilient service sector activity in the first quarter and a strong labour market.

"The global economy continues to gradually recover from the pandemic and Russia's invasion of Ukraine. But it is not yet out of the woods," IMF Chief Economist Pierre-Olivier Gourinchas said at the time.

After visiting China, Georgieva will proceed to the Indonesian capital Jakarta from September 4 to 7 for a gathering of leaders of regional bloc ASEAN.

She will then head to New Delhi, India, from September 8 to 10 to attend a G20 summit.
Iranian president Ebrahim Raisi called on Japan on Tuesday to display its independence from Washington by releasing Tehran's frozen assets amid U.S. sanctions - and then said the only blocked Iranian funds were being held in South Korea. Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi waves to the media as he leaves after a press conference in Tehran, Iran.(AP)

"Japan should act independently from the U.S. by releasing our blocked funds," Raisi said when asked by a Japanese reporter about $1.5 billion of blocked funds in Japan.

He then appeared to contradict himself.

"I must clarify that our Central Bank earlier said we only had unjustly frozen funds in South Korea. All other assets abroad are at the disposal of Iran's Central Bank," Raisi said.

Tehran and Washington have reached an agreement in which five U.S. citizens held in Iran will be freed in exchange for $6 billion of Iranian assets frozen in South Korea.

On Aug. 10, Iran allowed four detained U.S. citizens to move into house arrest from Tehran's Evin prison. A fifth was already under home confinement.

They are expected to leave Iran when the money reaches accounts in Qatar.

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Vivek Ramaswamy has accused fellow Republican candidate Nikki Haley of lying about his policy on US' relationship with Israel. Notably, Ramaswamy's opponents have been claiming that if the 38-year-old gets powers, he would cut US aid to Israel. 2024 US Presidential election Republican candidates Vivek Ramaswamy(left) and Nikki Haley(Bloomberg)

Taking to his official website for the 2024 US Presidential elections, Ramaswamy used Haley's birth name to take a dig at her. He also cleared the air around his policy on Israel.

"WRONG. Keep lying, Nimarata Randhawa. The desperation is showing. By the end of Viveks first term, the US-Israel relationship will be deeper and stronger than ever because it wont be a client relationship, it will be a true friendship," read the statement on Ramaswamy's "Vivek 2024" website.

Unveiling his policy on Israel, Ramaswamy highlighted how he would use the nation to derail Iran's nuclear mission.

"Vivek will also partner with Israel to ensure that Iran never acquires nuclear capabilities. Thats a hard *never.*" read a statement on the website.

"Most importantly, he[Vivek Ramaswamy] wont cut aid to Israel until Israel tells the U.S. that it no longer needs the aid. Thats what true friends do: theyre honest with each other," read the statement further.

In a direct rebuttal at his opponents, Ramaswamy assured that he would always support Israel.

"Dont believe the opponents lies that he wants to cut aid to Israel  which makes zero sense as a foreign policy priority any time in the foreseeable future. We will not leave Israel hanging out to dry  ever," explained Ramaswamy.

Earlier, during the first GOP debate, Haley had said: He[Vivek Ramaswamy] wants to hand Ukraine to Russia, he wants to let China eat Taiwan, he wants to go and stop funding Israel. You dont do that to friends. What you do instead is you have the backs of your friends."

Meanwhile, users of social media platform "X"(formerly Twitter) called out Ramaswamy for using Haley's birth name.

"Of course Vivek is referring to Nikki Haley by her maiden name - Namrata Randhawa - on his his website. Reminder: Nikki is her name on her birth certificate & this is a dog whistle. Crazy to see it coming from a fellow Indian American," read a post by a user.

"I just cant get over team Vivek attacking Nikki Haleys name. This attack usually comes from lunatics (on the left or right) accusing her of whitewashing her identity and hiding her heritage. (Who are too stupid to google it and realize Nikki is her actual birth name)," tweeted another user.
Prominent Russian nationalist Igor Girkin failed in an appeal on Tuesday against his pre-trial detention on charges of inciting extremism, a Moscow court said. Russian nationalist Kremlin critic and former military commander Igor Girkin, also known as Igor Strelkov, who is charged with inciting extremist activity.(Reuters)

Girkin, also known as Strelkov, has fiercely criticised the way that Russia has conducted the war in Ukraine. He is best known in the West for having been convicted by a Dutch court over the shooting down of a Malaysian passenger plane with the loss of 298 lives over eastern Ukraine in 2014.

His case is being closely watched as an indication of how far the Kremlin will tolerate aggressive criticism of its war effort in Ukraine, where Russia has failed to advance for months after being forced to retreat from large areas it seized in the conflict's early months.

Yevgeny Prigozhin, the Wagner mercenary leader who had conducted a running feud with the defence minister and top military command, was killed in an unexplained plane crash on Aug. 23. The Kremlin has rejected as an "absolute lie" suggestions in the West that Putin ordered his death.

Girkin's lawyer Alexander Molokhov told Reuters last month that the case against him was based on something Girkin had written on the messaging app Telegram on May 25.

Girkin had complained that authorities in the Russian-controlled part of Ukraine's Donetsk region had failed for the previous three months to provide any support payments to families of men who had been called up to fight against Ukraine.

Girkin posted that "to have someone shot for such a thing would be too little". The lawyer told Reuters that he admitted writing the post but did not agree that it amounted to extremism or incitement.

The 52-year-old faces up to five years in prison if convicted. The court, in rejecting his appeal, confirmed an earlier ruling to remand him in custody until Sept. 18.

Girkin is a former officer of Russia's FSB security service who organised pro-Russian militias to fight Ukrainian government forces in eastern Ukraine in 2014.

A Dutch court has convicted him in absentia for his role in the shooting-down of Malaysia Airlines Flight 17 over Ukraine in July of that year. He has denied he was involved.

Girkin told Reuters in May that a major crisis was brewing in Russia so he was setting up a new political group. "We are on the cusp of very grave internal political changes of a catastrophic character," Girkin said.

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The United States has been facing a big influx of migrants on its borders with Mexico. In a shocking development, FBI is in search of migrants who have allegedly entered the US, with help from a smuggler having links with dreaded terrorist group ISIS. Members of the Texas National Guard place wire fence on the banks of the Rio Bravo river, the border between the United States and Mexico, with the purpose of reinforcing border security and inhibiting the crossing of migrants into the United States, as seen from Ciudad Juarez, Mexico, August 22, 2023. (REUTERS)

According to CNN report, FBI is trying to identify and assess more than a dozen Uzbek nationals who entered the US earlier this year. The alarming matter caused an urgent classified intelligence report to be circulated to President Joe Bidens top Cabinet officials in their morning briefing book. However, no specific ISIS plot has been identified according to FBI.

As per the report, the Uzbek nationals requested asylum in the United States earlier this year and were checked by the Department of Homeland Security. The migrants were allowed into the US pending a court date. Later, FBI found out about the ISIS link in the matter.

ALSO READ| May be a serial killer, Maryland sheriff weighs in on suspect of Rachel Morin's murder

National Security Council spokesman Adrienne Watson interacted with CNN on the matter and shared few details.

There was no indicationand remains no indicationthat any of the individuals facilitated by this network have a connection to a foreign terrorist organization or are engaged in plotting a terrorist attack in the United States, said Watson.

While the FBI has not identified a specific terrorism plot associated with foreign nationals who recently entered the United States at the southern border, we always work with our field offices across the country, as well as our domestic and international partners, to identify any potential illegal activity or terrorism threats, the FBI said in a statement to CNN.

Interestingly, migration to the US has been traced to be originating from more than 150 countries across the world. Migrants from countries in Central Asia, is a big concern for US' security.

As per the report, more than 15 of the migrants have been tracked down and are under the scrutiny of FBI. But a few migrants are still yet to be tracked.

Notably, as the 2024 US Presidential elections draws near, Biden administration is facing increased heat over the migrant situation on the nation's border with Mexico.

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North Korean leader Kim Jong Un called for his military to be ready for combat to thwart its rivals' plots to invade his country, state media said. This comes as the US, South Korea and Japan held a trilateral naval exercise. The US and South Korean militaries have also been separately holding summer bilateral exercises since last week. North Korean leader Kim Jong Un speaks in Pyongyang, North Korea.(AP)

Kim Jong Un said in a speech marking the country's Navy Day that the waters off the Korean Peninsula have been made unstable with the danger of a nuclear war because of US-led hostilities, accusing the US of conducting more frantic naval drills with its allies and deploying strategic assets in waters around the Korean Peninsula.

Kim Jong Un called US president Joe Biden, South Korean president Yoon Suk Yeol and Japanese prime minister Fumio Kishida the gang bosses of the three countries.

The prevailing situation requires our navy to put all its efforts into rounding off the war readiness to maintain the constant combat alertness and get prepared to break the enemy's will for war in contingency, the North Korean leader said.

South Korea expressed deep regret over Kim Jong's use of very rude language to slander the South Korean, US and Japanese leaders. North Korea must immediately stop acts that raise tensions with reckless threats and provocation, South Korea said.

Last Thursday, North Korea's second attempt to launch a spy satellite into space failed. Since the beginning of 2022, North Korea has carried out more than 100 weapons tests, many of them involving nuclear-capable missiles with experts warning that Kim Jong Un ultimately wants to use its boosted military capabilities to wrest greater concessions from the US.

During his Navy Day speech, Kim Jong Un also said that military units of each service would be given new weaponry in line with the government's decision to expand the operation of tactical nuclear weapons. The navy would become a component of the state nuclear deterrence carrying out the strategic duty.

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A Pakistani court granted pre-arrest bail to Bushra Bibi, wife of jailed former prime minister Imran Khan, till September 12 in multiple graft cases. Bushra Bibi appeared before the court in Islamabad along with her lawyers Latif Khosa and Intizar Hussain Panjutha. The court approved her bail plea against a surety bond of 500,000, local media reported. Bushra Bibi is named in multiple graft cases, including the Toshakhana and Al-Qadir University Trust cases. Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi are seen.

The development came after the Islamabad High Court suspended Imran Khan's three-year prison term in the Toshakhana corruption case. The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) chief was arrested earlier this month in the Toshakhana case and was sentenced to three years in prison. He is currently lodged in Attock jail in Punjab province and is due to appear on Wednesday before a special court constituted to hear cases pertaining to the Official Secrets Act (Amendment) 2023 in connection with the cipher case.

The court suspended Imran Khan's recent conviction on corruption charges, his lawyer Naeem Panjutha said, but it will not lead to his release as a judge has ordered his detention in another case. The former prime minister was ousted from office in a parliamentary vote of confidence in April 2022 following which his relations with Pakistan's powerful generals have deteriorated badly.

"The sentence has been suspended," Naeem Panjutha said on messaging platform X, formerly known as Twitter, adding, God be praised.

Imran Khan's top aide, former foreign minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi, has also been arrested in the same case.

Imran Khan faces dozens of cases, including charges of abetment to murder and orchestrating violent protests that followed his initial arrest in May. He has denied all the charges.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR Mallika Soni When not reading, this ex-literature student can be found searching for an answer to the question, "What is the purpose of journalism in society?" ...view detail
The funeral of Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin who was killed in a plane crash last week was held privately at a cemetery on the outskirts of his hometown St Petersburg. "The farewell to Yevgeny Viktorovich took place in a closed format. Those who wish to say goodbye may visit Porokhovskoye cemetery," his press service said in a short post on Telegram along with a photo of Prigozhin, Reuters reported. A woman lights a candle at a makeshift memorial for Yevgeny Prigozhin, head of the Wagner mercenary group.(Reuters)

Secrecy surrounded the funeral arrangements for Yevgeny Prigozhin, who was killed in a plane crash on August 23, exactly two months since staging a mutiny which posed the biggest challenge to Russian president Vladimir Putin's rule since he rose to power in 1999.

The Kremlin earlier said that Vladimir Putin would not attend the funeral. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said that the funeral arrangements were a matter for the Wagner chief's family, adding that Moscow did not know when the funeral would take place.

The presidents presence [at Prigozhins funeral] is not envisaged. We dont have any specific information on the funeral, he said.

In the place crash two other top Wagner figures, four Prigozhin bodyguards and three crew members were also killed.

The Russian investigative committee has not yet put forward a list of possible causes of the crash but preliminary western intelligence assessments concluded that the explosion was intentional. US president Joe Biden suggested that Vladimir Putin could be behind the plane crash saying, Theres not much that happens in Russia that Putins not behind."

The Kremlin has denied any involvement in the death of the Wagner chief, calling western intelligence assessments of the Russian presidents potential involvement an absolute lie.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR Mallika Soni When not reading, this ex-literature student can be found searching for an answer to the question, "What is the purpose of journalism in society?" ...view detail
Miami Mayor Francis Suarez is suspending his bid for the presidency, dropping out of the 2024 race after failing to qualify for the first Republican debate. US presidential elections 2024: Republican presidential candidate Miami Mayor Francis Suarez speaks at the Republican Party of Iowa's 2023 Lincoln Dinner in Des Moines, Iowa.(AP)

The two-term mayor on Tuesday became the first candidate to drop out of the crowded GOP field. He launched his campaign just over two months ago as one of the last competitors to join a primary race that has so far been dominated by former President Donald Trump.

While I have decided to suspend my campaign for President, my commitment to making this a better nation for every American remains, he said in a post on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter.

The 45-year-old Suarez was vying to become the first sitting mayor and first Latino elected president.

Earlier this year, Trumps former White House counselor Kellyanne Conway floated Suarez as a possible vice presidential pick.

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Camilla could be behind King Charles plans to axe staff in a major shakeup, a royal biographer claimed as the monarch reportedly drew plans to scale back up to 20 per cent of his middle-management staff. Camilla and the monarch believe that they employ too many staff members who carry out similar tasks, the Mail reported. Royal biographer Angela Levin claimed that Camilla is pushing for this the hardest as she typically works with far fewer staff. Britain's King Charles III and Queen Camilla arrive by horse drawn carriage for a visit to the Sandringham Flower Show.(AP)

I think its a very interesting thing. The Sovereign Grant is 86.3million which the Government gives them, which means each of us have to pay 1.29. I think this is to do with the King marrying someone who isnt from royal stock. I know Camilla, I wrote her biography. She isnt someone who is very flash and wants loads of staff hanging around her, she is used to running her own home, and she still does to a certain extent. I think she feels that it is a waste, and she doesnt need all those people. Im sure Charles is used to it."

Royal expert Robert Jobson said that staff cuts are a near certainty but King Charles wants things done his way.

He's [King Charles] now the boss, he's in charge. And he wants certain things to be done his way. So the scaling back I think will be done on staff, where you don't need so many people. They've got lots of people who are assistants to assistants to assistants in the royal household. And they will try to cut that right back. And they are I think now we've had the period of transition, and the crowning with the Coronation, both in Britain and in England and then Scotland, it's now time to show that he can start doing that. And I think that is what is going to happen," Robert Jobson said.

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Years of disrupted schooling have left Ukrainian children struggling to learn language, maths and reading skills in the wake of the pandemic and Russia's invasion, the United Nations warned Tuesday. Russia-Ukraine War: A view of a damaged building at a Ukrainian port on the Danube after a night drone attack in Odesa region.(AFP)

Youngsters within the country and refugees forced to flee abroad are now facing a fourth straight year of disruption, the UN children's agency, UNICEF, said, as the school year begins in Ukraine.

Continued attacks on education inside Ukraine and low-level enrollment in refugee-hosting countries have left many of Ukraine's 6.7 million three-to-18-year-olds struggling to learn, said Regina De Dominicis, UNICEF's regional director for Europe and central Asia.

They are showing signs of widespread learning loss, including a deterioration in Ukrainian language skills, reading and mathematics, she said after visiting the country.

"Inside Ukraine, attacks on schools have continued unabated, leaving children deeply distressed and without safe spaces to learn," De Dominicis said.

"Not only has this left Ukraine's children struggling to progress in their education, but they are also struggling to retain what they learnt when their schools were fully functioning."

UNICEF cited survey data which found around half of teachers reporting a deterioration in students' Ukrainian language proficiency, mathematics skills and foreign language abilities.

And it said enrollment data showed only one third of children were learning fully in-person, with a third learning completely online and the remainder through a mixed approach.

UNICEF said online learning could help in the short-term but was not a proper long-term replacement for in-person teaching, considered critical for social development.

The agency cited national survey data showing that two thirds of pre-school-age children were not attending, rising to three quarters in frontline areas.

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A tragic shooting at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill left a faculty member dead on Monday, August 28. A suspect named Tailei Qi is now in police custody. Tailei was arrested on Williams Circle in connection with the incident. A chilling video shows students jumping out of the windows to escape the shooting (WRAL screenshot)

Just after 1 pm on the day of the shooting, locallaw enforcement and UNC officials issued an alert about an armed and dangerous person roaming near or on the campus. Police later revealed in a press conference that a staff member was murdered.

I am devastated by todays shooting in one of our campus buildings, a place where we conduct our important work of teaching, mentoring, and research every day, UNC-Chapel Hill Chancellor Kevin M Guskiewicz said in a statement on Monday. This shooting damages the trust and safety that we so often take for granted on our campus.

The students are certainly traumatised, Kevin said, according to The Independent. But I want to commend those who were inside the building ensuring everyones safety.

Students seen jumping out of the windows

A chilling video released by WRAL shows students jumping out of the windows to escape the shooting. Describing the chaos, a student told Fox News, I rushed outside assuming that would be the best location since they would most likely target larger crowds since I was in a large lecture of maybe 250300 people. Once I went outside, I saw people running in the direction of the Genome Science building. I decided to take the corner and investigate to see what was going on.

One of my friends worked with him in the chemistry lab. However, he graduated this past year and was not [there]. Overall, it was extremely unexpected. I would always see stuff in the news but never expected to see things like this in person first-hand taking place, the student added.

Who is the suspect, Tailei Qi?

Tailei attended University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. He also claimed to have attended Louisiana State University, and obtained a master's in material science in 2021, according to the Daily Mail. He graduated from Wuhan University in 2015. Officials said that no charges have been brought against him yet.

Taipeis LinkedIn bio says, Tailei Qi is a graduate student at the department of applied physical sciences, UNC at Chapel Hill. He works on the optically trapped nanoparticle arrays and all kinds of their related fascinating phenomena. He has experience in 2D TMD photodetectors, optical tweezers.

Suspect Tailei Qi has been arrested (UNC Police)

A UNC student who knew Tailei said the incident stunned him. I would have never guessed that he would be the kind of person who could possibly be capable of this kind of thing," graduate student Aiden Scott told WRAL. "He was always very quiet."

"Every single time he would talk to me, he seemed very nice. When I saw his face in the reports online, I was beyond shocked, the student added.
Two Ukrainian women have been arrested for allegedly dancing and twerking on fallen soldiers' graves on the country's Independence Day and face a jail term up to five years. The screengrab of a purported video of Ukrainian girls dancing on soldiers' graves. (Reddit )

A video showing the two dancing next to a grave was published on social media on August 24, Ukraines Independence Day. The short clip shows at least one woman twerking in front of the camera while still standing near a grave with a photo of a man in military uniform, reported RT.com- a Russian government-funded television network.

According to the report, Ukrainian police claim they came across the clip on August 24 evening. In less than an hour, law enforcement officers had established [the womens] whereabouts and brought them to the police department, a statement by the Kyiv police said on Friday, adding that the two sisters face up to five years behind bars on charges of desecration of soldiers graves.

The police later revealed that the two sisters came to the  cemetery and decided to honour the memory of the fallen in such a way. The authorities also published photos of the two women, still dressed in the same clothes they were wearing in the video, accompanied by a police officer. The identities of the women were not disclosed.

The original video post has since been removed from social media and one of the alleged suspects has apparently published an apology on Instagram, claiming that she and her sister had visited the grave of [their] deceased father, who was supposedly killed near the city of Izium, which was the scene of fierce battles between Russian and Ukrainian troops last year, the report added.

The woman then claimed that she and her sister were aware of their deceased fathers position on the burial culture and saw nothing wrong with their actions. It was not particularly correct to publish such a video, she said, adding that they were sorry.

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British transport minister Mark Harper said that it would take days to resolve the disruption to flights into and out of the country after air traffic control systems were hit by a technical problem. Over 1,500 flights were cancelled - one of the country's busiest travel days. Air traffic controllers were forced to switch to manual systems. UK air traffic control glitch: Travellers wait near the British Airways check-in area at Heathrow Airport.(Reuters)

Mark Harper said that government officials did not believe the technical problem was the result of a cyber attack. "There is going to be some knock on impact today and I suspect for another few days as airlines get their planes and get their services back to normal," he told the BBC. Aviation analytics firm Cirium said 790 flights departing UK airports were cancelled and 785 flights due to arrive were cancelled on Monday. This means that just over a quarter of all flights into or out of the country were affected, Reuters reported while travelers scampered amid the disruption sharing their experiences on social media.

Heathrow Airport, Britain's busiest hub, told passengers to contact their airline before travelling to the airport on Tuesday as its services will remain significantly disrupted saying, "The issue has been resolved, however schedules remain significantly disrupted. If you are travelling on 29th August, please ensure you contact your airline before travelling to the airport."

Meanwhile, airlines said that they were making changes to their schedules to try and fly as many people as possible but some planes and crews were not where they should have been.

"We're working as hard as possible to get affected customers on their way again," British Airways said on X.

London Gatwick said that it plans to operate a normal schedule today following the disruption but advised passengers to check the status of their flight with their airline before travelling to the airport.

London Stansted also said it planned to run a normal flight schedule but added our terminal may be busier than anticipated while Luton airport said "flights may be subject to delay or cancellation".

Major UK airlines such as Tui and BA warned of "significant delays" for passengers amid changes to schedules.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR Mallika Soni When not reading, this ex-literature student can be found searching for an answer to the question, "What is the purpose of journalism in society?" ...view detail
Russian president Vladimir Putin has no plans to attend the funeral of Wagner mercenary group leader Yevgeny Prigozhin, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said. The Kremlin did not know about the planned funeral arrangements, he said, adding that this was a matter for the family. Russian president Vladimir Putin (AP)

Yevgeny Prigozhin died when his business jet crashed last week, two months after he staged an aborted mutiny against Russian military commanders in which they took control of a southern city, Rostov. The mercenaries also advanced towards Moscow before turning back 200 km (125 miles) from the capital. The Russian president had then denounced the rebellion as treason but Prigozhin escaped any retaliation by the Kremlin under a deal brokered to end the revolt.

Earlier, the Kremlin rejected the suggestion by some Western politicians and commentators that Vladimir Putin ordered Prigozhin to be killed in revenge slamming them as an "absolute lie".

Vladimir Putin sent his condolences to Prigozhin's family last week breaking his silence after the plane crash.

This comes as a former British intelligence officer said that he previously received information regarding a contract that had been put out on Wagner boss Yevgeny Prigozhin. "We had heard some weeks ago from a source that a contract had been put out on Prigozhin in Russia by senior members of the business community," Christopher Steele told Sky News, continuing, But certainly it looks as though it may well be a revenge attack by somebody in the elite, possibly somebody very senior."

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Rap star Eminem asked Republican presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy to stop using his songs. Eminem made the request via performing rights organisation BMI in a letter more than a week after the presidential hopeful delivered an impromptu performance of Lose Yourself at the Iowa State Fair as he vies to unseat former US president Donald Trump as the presumed 2024 Republican nominee. US entrepreneur and 2024 Presidential hopeful Vivek Ramaswamy raps after doing a Fair Side Chat with Governor Kim Reynolds, at the Iowa State Fair in Des Moines, Iowa.(AFP)

A spokeswoman for Vivek Ramaswamy said that he will comply with the request by Eminem. In the letter, the company said that they had "received a communication from" Eminem objecting to the Republican's use of his "musical compositions". "BMI will consider any performance of the Eminem works by the Vivek 2024 campaign from this date forward to be a material breach" of its licence, it added.

Referring to an Eminem lyric, campaign spokeswoman Tricia McLaughlin said, "Vivek just got on the stage and cut loose. To the American people's chagrin, we will have to leave the rapping to the real slim shady."

Vivek Ramaswamy said on X, formally known as Twitter, referring to more of Eminem's lyrics, Will The REAL Slim Shady Please Stand Up? He didn't just say what I think he did, did he?"

Earlier the Indian-American US election candidate said that there is nothing more racist than predicting someones viewpoints with their skin colour.

Vivek Ramaswamy said, Congresswoman @AyannaPressley says we dont need any more brown faces that dont want to be a brown voice. Theres nothing more racist than to assume the color of someones skin predicts something about the content of their viewpoints. Time to end the weaponization of race."

I stand by what I said to provoke an open and honest discussion in this country because there is a gap, Dana, between what people will say in private today and what they will say in public. I think we need to close that gap," he added.

I think we need to have a real, open, honest raw conversation as Americans. That is our path to national unity. And there are many Americans today who are deeply frustrated by the new culture of anti-racism, thats really racism in new clothing, and we need to have that debate in the open, he continued.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR Mallika Soni When not reading, this ex-literature student can be found searching for an answer to the question, "What is the purpose of journalism in society?" ...view detail
Recently transitioning from Accor to IHG, Th8 Palm has named Cora De Conceicao-Stuart as its new General Manager, succeeding her role at Waldorf Astoria on Palm Jumeirah.

Initially launched in late 2021 as the flagship of the 'House of Originals' in Dubai, the property now operates under IHG's Vignette Collection, following the brand's inception in August 2021. The 'House of Originals' brand, established as a collaboration between Accor and sbe in 2019, was later rebranded as Morgan's Originals after a merger with Ennismore. The Th8 Palm Dubai Beach Resort, Vignette Collection, continues to be owned by Kuwaiti firm Aqarat, which also selected IHG to manage the new Vignette Collection in Kuwait City.

Designed by renowned local firm Roar, Th8 Palm is part of Dubai's collection of luxury lifestyle properties.

Cora De Conceicao-Stuart brings a wealth of experience to her new role. Before her tenure at Waldorf Astoria, she served as the General Manager at Erth, Abu Dhabi. Her extensive global career includes commercial roles at Ritz-Carlton Hotels in Boston and Bahrain, the launch of the first Bulgari property in Asia, leading the pre-opening team as hotel manager at the Address Hotel Downtown in Dubai, and a term as GM at Media One Hotel, where she earned the title of General Manager of the Year at the Hotelier Middle East Awards.

She also served as the regional director of operational innovations at the Middle Eastern Regional Office of Starwood Hotels & Resorts before returning to Singapore and Indonesia as COO for an Asian hospitality start-up and GM of a Luxury Collection hotel in Jakarta.

A native of Singapore, De Conceicao-Stuart holds a Higher Diploma in Hotel Management from The Singapore Hotel and Tourism Education Centre, where she first developed her passion for the hospitality industry.
Chinmai is a seasoned travel industry professional with more than two decades of global experience in the fields of Travel Technology, Electronic Distribution and Commercial optimization. Before joining Sabre, Chinmai served as President-Americas for RateGain. Before that, he was the Chief Revenue Officer of Taj Hotel Group (IHCL) where he held group level responsibility for global sales, marketing, revenue management, distribution, digital, loyalty & analytics. He has also held leadership roles with companies like Starwood Capital Group based in Paris, Wyndham Hotel Group in New Jersey, Joie de Vivre Hotels (now part of Hyatt) in San Francisco and with Expedia Inc. in Bellevue, WA.

Chinmai is a Hotel Management graduate along with a B.A. with Math and holds a joint MBA from IMHI/ESSEC Business School, Paris and Cornell Hotel School (M.M.H), New York. Chinmai has held advisory board roles with travel technology companies like Sabre as well as with some Travel Tech start-ups. He is currently a mentor with the start-up incubator at NYU Jonathan M. Tisch Center of Hospitality Innovation Hub (HI Hub) and a board member for non-profit hospitality associations HSMAI and HEDNA. He has been named as one of the 'Top 20 Extraordinary minds within Sales, Marketing and Technology' by HSMAI Europe. Chinmai speaks regularly at industry events and contributes to educational institutions. He has been a visiting fellow at the Sheffield Business School at Sheffield Hallam University in United Kingdom and speaks often to students at educational institutions like Les Roches Hospitality School Switzerland, ESSEC Business School Paris, NYU and Cornell University.
In May 2023, three BOSC 6 students enrolled in EHL Hospitality Business School, namely Matei Testa, Timo Kaiser, and Sophia Schutte, were given the opportunity to attend the Hospitality Industry Technology Exposition and Conference (HITEC) in Dubai as part of EHL's Educational Travel Program. In the following blog post, they reflect on their journey and share valuable insights about the event.

EHL's Educational Travel Program brought us on a trip to the lively city of Dubai to attend the highly anticipated HITEC Conference. We took advantage of this excellent opportunity to immerse ourselves in the Middle Eastern hospitality and technology industry for three unforgettable days. The HITEC Conference, which is part of The Hotel Show, has established itself as a flagship event for the Middle Eastern hospitality industry, bringing together industry leaders through incisive panels, talks and seminars. In this blog post, we share our firsthand experiences and shed light on the important issues driving the future of this ever-changing industry.

We had the pleasure of working with the outstanding team from Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP) throughout our time in Dubai, who expertly handled the planning of this remarkable event. We were fortunate enough to actively participate in the conference, attending captivating keynotes and insightful discussions, while also assisting with various supportive and administrative responsibilities behind the scenes.

The HITEC Conference features high-level conversations on how technology can be leveraged to enhance revenue generation. It also addressed the emergence of new challenges in the hospitality business, with a focus on three primary topics that are extremely important to the future of this industry: artificial intelligence, green technology and big data.

Artificial Intelligence: In today's market, customers are increasingly demanding quick interactions and tailored services. The unlocked potential of AI and machine learning to transform customer service is immense. AI chatbots for instance enable businesses to engage with customers around the clock, regardless of language barriers. Additionally, computer systems can utilize data to predict and optimize room occupancy, while an integrated network for omnichannel customer service can greatly enhance personalized guest experiences. AI is an opportunity and serves as an effective complementary dimension to the future of tourism and hospitality.

In today's market, customers are increasingly demanding quick interactions and tailored services. The unlocked potential of AI and machine learning to transform customer service is immense. AI chatbots for instance enable businesses to engage with customers around the clock, regardless of language barriers. Additionally, computer systems can utilize data to predict and optimize room occupancy, while an integrated network for omnichannel customer service can greatly enhance personalized guest experiences. AI is an opportunity and serves as an effective complementary dimension to the future of tourism and hospitality. Green Technology: Numerous hospitality brands are actively embracing sustainability measures, addressing issues such as food waste and the excessive consumption of plastic, water and energy. This strategic shift is crucial since failing to adopt environmentally-friendly practices could result in the loss of the largest consumer generation, Gen Z. Given millennials' strong support of social responsibility and sustainability, hotels, increasingly, must prioritize eco-friendly initiatives in order to attract and retain this generation, as well as future ones.

Numerous hospitality brands are actively embracing sustainability measures, addressing issues such as food waste and the excessive consumption of plastic, water and energy. This strategic shift is crucial since failing to adopt environmentally-friendly practices could result in the loss of the largest consumer generation, Gen Z. Given millennials' strong support of social responsibility and sustainability, hotels, increasingly, must prioritize eco-friendly initiatives in order to attract and retain this generation, as well as future ones. Big Data: The conventional hotel industry has undergone a complete transformation, as established hotel chains now find themselves compelled to evolve into digital-first entities that align with the demands of todays customers. This shift has been prompted by the emergence of on-demand digital services and an increase in accommodation providers that exclusively rely on technology to secure bookings. However, the absence of a centralized platform to consolidate various data sources can cause delays in analysis, leading to inefficiencies in reporting procedures. Data management systems, including the integration of business intelligence tools, have been at the heart of this transformation. As a result, it has become increasingly important to ensure that such information and data is coherent and useful. By analyzing big data appropriately, hotel revenue can be optimized.

We were able to network with attendees and speakers between panel discussions and after the conference. These interactions gave us an invaluable opportunity to expand our professional network, particularly among industry professionals mainly from the UAE. We truly felt the power of the EHL family, despite being thousands of kilometers from our familiar Lausanne campus. We felt welcomed at all times and were introduced to possible job opportunities in emerging hospitality companies from the Middle East.

Undoubtedly, this Educational Travel Program has had a profound impact on us. It broadened our horizons by exposing us to new knowledge and inspiration and provided us with valuable connections. These connections, forged with industry experts and like-minded individuals, will shape our professional lives.

Returning to the question, is technology the answer to everything? The answer is an unequivocal NO. While technical developments are critical for the hospitality sector, especially with regard to becoming more sustainable, our experience underscored the importance of human interaction in hospitality. Although technology can potentially substitute for human interaction in specific hotel contexts, it cannot completely replace it. We saw how technology is being harnessed to enhance efficiency and the guest experience: analyzing big data allows hoteliers to gather more insight and thus proactively customize their guests journey. However, we recognized that hospitality professionals' warmth, empathy, and individualized care remain invaluable and irreplaceable. The human touch makes guests feel appreciated and leaves an indelible impression on them.

We would like to thank EHL and HFTP for making this opportunity possible for us students!

About EHL Group

EHL Group is the global reference in education, innovation and consulting for the hospitality and service sector.

With expertise dating back to 1893, EHL Group now offers a wide range of leading educational programs from apprenticeships to master's degrees, as well as professional and executive education, on three campuses in Switzerland and Singapore. EHL Group also offers consulting and certification services to companies and learning centers around the world. True to its values and committed to building a sustainable world, EHL Group's purpose is to provide education, services and working environments that are people-centered and open to the world. www.ehlgroup.com

EHL Hospitality Business School

Communications Department

+41 21 785 1354

EHL

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Singapore - Hotelogix, a globally leading enterprise-grade cloud-based Hotel Property Management System provider, has successfully integrated its multi-property management system with Opentec's Passport and ID Scanning solution. With this, Hotelogix aims to enable its customers to efficiently capture, process, and store all guest details digitally. It will also allow hotels to stay compliant with mandatory regulatory norms.

Headquartered in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Opentec System LLC offers businesses an extensive range of solutions to help them operate efficiently. With offices in USA, Europe, Asia, Africa, and across the Middle East, it works across domains, including healthcare, gaming and nightclubs, aviation and airports, and hotels. Currently, 1000+ leading hotel group/chain brands are using its guest identity authentication, verification, and validation solutions.

As per the interface, Opentec's Passport and ID Scanning solution will scan various guest documents, including passports, visas, driving licences, etc. It captures all data - text and image and pushes the same to Hotelogix, directly and instantly populating relevant guest information into the guest profile. Most importantly, it allows hotels to share the same guest data with UAEs Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM)-CID per government-prescribed legislation.

Integrating with Opentec's solution reaffirms our commitment to working with the industry's best to help hotels become compliant while improving operational capabilities and serving guests better. It reinforces our focus for the UAE market. Brijesh Surendran, President of Sales at Hotelogix

Hotelogix is emerging as a popular technology solution provider in the UAE and Middle East market. With many hotel groups fast moving to the cloud with Hotelogix, it seems to be a welcome partnership and will be integral to our growth strategy. Rushan Baleen, Sales Manager at Opentec

About Hotelogix

Hotelogix is a globally leading cloud-based hospitality technology solutions provider of industry-first Multi-property Management System, Hotel PMS and Mobile PMS App for independent and hotel groups. We have the remarkable feat of implementing the most extensive multi-property deployment of 50000+ rooms across 500+ properties under a single group. Through our distribution brand AxisRooms, we also offer Channel Manager and Revenue Management solutions. We have earned the trust of 5000+ hotels in 100+ countries, including South Asia, Southeast Asia, the Middle East, LATAM, Europe and North America. We have been instrumental in driving their growth while helping them sell more rooms at the optimum rate and serving guests better.

Hotelogix is headquartered in Singapore with offices in the USA, India, UAE, Thailand and the Philippines.

For more information, visit https://www.hotelogix.com/property-management-system-large-hotels.php.

Debi Prasad Sarangi

Corporate Communications Specialist - Hotelogix

+91 804 093 6513 Extn: 1006
Saint Lucia - The finest travel brands from across the Caribbean and the Americas have been unveiled at a glittering Gala Ceremony in Saint Lucia. The industry elite travelled from across the region to the paradise island for the World Travel Awards (WTA) Caribbean & The Americas Gala Ceremony 2023 to find out who amongst them had been crowned best of the best.

The red carpet evening, hosted at Sandals Grand St. Lucian, marked the opening leg of the WTAs landmark 30th anniversary Grand Tour 2023  a global search for the finest travel and tourism organisations.

Winners on the night included Jamaica, which saw off a tough field to emerge as Caribbeans Leading Destination, as well as Caribbeans Leading Cruise Destination and Caribbeans Leading Tourist Board. Turks & Caicos was voted Caribbean's Leading Beach Destination. The Bahamas took the title of Caribbeans Leading Luxury Island Destination.

Canada was named North Americas Leading Destination, whilst Miami Beach claimed the coveted title of North Americas Leading City Destination and Seattle claimed North Americas Leading Meeting & Conference Destination.

The Mexican resort of Tulum, with its great beaches, lush jungles and Mayan ruins, was named Mexico & Central Americas Leading Beach Destination. Costa Rica picked up the top prize for Mexico & Central Americas Leading Destination.

Peru was voted South Americas Leading Destination, whilst its cutting-edge gastronomy was recognised with South Americas Leading Culinary Destination. The romantic charms of San Carlos de Bariloche were acknowledged as the Argentine resort picked up South Americas Leading Honeymoon Destination

It has been a privilege to start our 30th anniversary celebrations on the beautiful island of Saint Lucia, which has hosted an incredible ceremony featuring the leading lights of travel from across the Caribbean and Americas. Our winners are stellar examples of tourism excellence, and I congratulate each and every one for helping to raise the collective benchmark. Graham Cooke, Founder, World Travel Awards

The breadth and depth of Saint Lucias tourism offerings was reinforced with three key awards: the majestic island was named Caribbeans Leading Honeymoon Destination, Caribbeans Leading Adventure Destination and Caribbean's Leading Nature Destination.

We take immense pride in hosting the 30th annual World Travel Awards Caribbean and the Americas Gala Ceremony, an event that truly highlighted Saint Lucia's remarkable hospitality and rich cultural heritage. Being honored with three significant accolades that will undoubtedly enhance our marketing endeavours is a source of great honour. This recognition serves to further strengthen our standing as a premier destination and serves as a motivating force to continue providing unparalleled world-class experiences to global travellers, spanning adventure, romance, and the wonders of nature. Honourable Dr. Ernest Hilaire, Minister for Tourism, Investment, Creative Industries, Culture & Information

In the hospitality sector, winners included Amanyara, Turks & Caicos (Caribbeans Leading Beach Resort); Jamaicas Halfmoon (Caribbeans Leading Hotel); Round Hill Hotel & Villas (Caribbeans Leading Villa Resort); Beaches Turks & Caicos (Caribbeans Leading All-Inclusive Family Resort). The relentless drive for excellence helped Sandals Resorts International to lift the title of Caribbean's Leading Hotel Brand. Sugar Beach, A Viceroy Resort, St. Lucia was hailed Caribbeans Leading Luxury Resort and Jade Mountain Resort, St. Lucia took Caribbeans Leading Luxury Honeymoon Resort.

From the Americas, notable winners included Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach Cancun (Mexico & Central America's Leading Beach Resort); Gaia Hotel & Reserve, Costa Rica (Mexico & Central America's Leading Green Hotel); Wyndham Guayaquil Puerto Santa Ana, Ecuador (South America's Leading City Hotel); Four Seasons Hotel Los Angeles at Beverley Hills (California's Leading Hotel); The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara (California's Leading Resort); One&Only Palmilla (Mexicos Leading Luxury Resort); The St. Regis New York (North America's Leading Wedding Hotel); Mandarin Oriental, Santiago (Chile's Leading Business Hotel).

In the aviation sector, Bahamasair was named Caribbeans Leading Airline, whilst Sangster International Airport, Jamaica took Caribbeans Leading Airport. Prive Jets won the title of North Americas Leading Private Jet Charter. Air Canada was named North America's Leading Airline.

Other winners include GO! Jamaica Travel (Caribbeans Leading Tour Operator); Enchanting Travels (North Americas Leading Tour Operator); Costamar Travel (South Americas Leading Travel Agency); Llama Path, Peru (South Americas Responsible Tourism Award); Liberty Travel (United States Leading Travel Agency); and Skylux Travel (North America's Leading Travel Agency); and Ekinox Tours (Mexico & Central America's Leading Adventure Tour Operator).

Find a full list of winners on the official WTA website.

Saint Lucia 2023 Highlights

In addition to WTA, Saint Lucia has a number of key events and activities in 2023:

1. Three Peaks Challenge

New for 2023, the Saint Lucia Three Peaks Challenge enables visitors to tackle three iconic mountains during their stay: Gros Piton, Petit Piton and Mount Gimie.

2. River Rafting on the Roseau River

Climb aboard a bamboo raft and float along the stunning Roseau River, taking in natures boundless wonders in tropical paradise. Spot the exotic birds of this idyllic rainforest and inhale the crisp open air, sample some tropical favourites like sugar cane or coconut water or even a homemade local treat, Carls Creole Bread.

3. Kabawe Krawl

This new trail of bars (Kabawe is Creole for rum shack) gives you an opportunity to meet the locals, swap stories and enjoy some Saint Lucian hospitality. Book a guided tour or if youre out and about look for the Kabawe Krawl sign at a participating venue.

4. Romance Summit

Say Yes to Saint Lucia is a Global Romance Summit later this year, enabling agents to meet key partners, including villas, hotels and wedding planners. There will also be keynote speakers, a bridalwear fashion show and a digital media strategy workshop.

5. Atlantic Rally Cruise

The Atlantic Rally Cruise (ARC) takes place annually and sees a fleet of more than 100 boats set sail from Las Palmas in Gran Canarias to cross the Atlantic Ocean to Saint Lucia.

About Saint Lucia

One of the Windward Islands of the West Indies' Lesser Antilles, Saint Lucia is nestled halfway down the Eastern Caribbean archipelago. Saint Lucia is known for its natural beauty and diverse attractions, including the signature Piton Mountains (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), a tropical rainforest, the highly-Instagrammed mud baths at Sulphur Springs Park, and one of the worlds few drive-in volcanoes. Culturally rich offerings include the bustling marketplace in the capital of Castries, quaint fishing villages along the coastline, the annual Saint Lucia Jazz & Arts Festival and vibrant Carnival. Saint Lucia's wide range of accommodations includes five-star hotels, all-inclusive resorts, intimate inns, and value-oriented properties. The destination also offers world-class cruise and yachting facilities. The island is continually recognized as a leading wedding and honeymoon destination worldwide. The Saint Lucia Tourism Authority is the official destination marketing and promotion organization for Saint Lucia. Learn more at www.stlucia.org and follow us on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter.

About World Travel Awards

WTA was established in 1993 to acknowledge, reward and celebrate excellence across all sectors of the tourism industry.

Today, the WTA brand is recognised globally as the ultimate hallmark of quality, with winners setting the benchmark to which all others aspire.

Each year, WTA covers the globe with a series of regional gala ceremonies staged to recognise and celebrate individual and collective success within each key geographical region.

WTA gala ceremonies are widely regarded as the best networking opportunities in the travel industry, attended by government and industry leaders, luminaries and international print and broadcast media.

For more information about WTA visit worldtravelawards.com.

World Travel Awards

+44 (0) 20 7925 0000

World Travel Awards

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Dublin & Denver - Hotel software solutions provider P3 is being credited for transforming the booking process for Rottnest Island Authority, after developing a customized booking engine that effectively addresses the authoritys diverse range of accommodations and guests. A popular island destination situated just offshore from the city of Perth in Western Australia, Rottnest Island Authority operates Stay Rottnest, offering an expansive array of accommodations from campsites and cabins to bungalows and large self-contained units. With 69 different room types spanning seven locations and various views and room configurations, a robust and highly customized guest booking solution was required. After the previous provider announced plans to phase out its booking engine at the end of 2022, Rottnest Islands management team conducted a thorough evaluation of systems capable of meeting their unique business requirements to identify a new solution.

Stay Rottnest is different in many ways. Its a unique business. We had to cover data security issues, PCI-DSS and so forth because its a state-agency, not a private entity. We needed to find a new booking engine provider that could understand the uniqueness of our project and that could deliver the level of customisation we needed to support our guests bookings and the significant spikes in demand for our accommodation. Deborah Taylor, Director of Visitor Services at Rottnest Island Authority

Another unique feature of Stay Rottnest is the loyalty of its clientele, with many guests returning year after year with their families for generations, often seeking the same location or even the same accommodation.

The biggest piece of functionality that P3 built for us was a calendar with alternative dates. This calendar shows users the available dates for the particular type of accommodation they chose. Guests dont need to exhaustively guess on possible available dates for their booking needs, said Taylor. They can now filter their booking search by location and/or by the types of units that meet their needs, including adults and children. When they move to the rooms and rates page, they are able to see what is sold out and what is available. If what they want is sold out, they can flick through the calendar and find an alternative date when their unit of interest is available. This makes much easier for the user to find availability gaps specific to certain units.

In addition to making the booking process simpler and more intuitive for Stay Rottnest guests, the new P3 booking engine has also resulted in added revenue and increased occupancy rates.

We now have a huge demand for short-lead time bookings, which didnt happen before, continued Taylor. There was suddenly a different booking behaviour to fill out the accommodation gaps as people could scroll through the availability calendar. Within the first 24 hours of launching the new system, we sold double the amount of bookings that we would normally sell at that time of year. We also noticed that 25% of those bookings were actually made for the subsequent 5 months, from December to April. This is phenomenal because we rarely have customers booking in such a short lead time. Within the first month with the new system, 40% of the new bookings were made for gaps during the peak period from December to April and this trend continued throughout the peak season.

Since deploying the new booking engine, the Rottnest Island properties are more consistently fully booked with few gaps between stays. Taylor credits P3 for the uptick in bookings. We did a proof of concept, and the team was quickly able to demonstrate that they could undertake the customisation required by Rottnest. From the very beginning of the conversations between P3 and Rottnest Island Authority, everything seemed possible to build, she said. They clearly understood the transparency and the complexities around selling our accommodation. Their CEO Phelim Pekaar and the team are always proactive in approaching us with ideas and suggestions to improve the Stay Rottnest guest booking experience.

To view the full interview with Taylor, please click HERE.

About P3 Hotel Software

P3 has been a specialist provider of software solutions for large independent hotels and hotel groups for more than 20 years. The company is dedicated to delivering high-quality, state-of-the-art technology that delivers a complete e-commerce experience to help hoteliers attract and retain more guests booking direct. With a range of innovative solutions, including booking engines, online check-in/out and kiosk systems, P3 provides a deep integration with Oracle Hospitality OPERA to ensure enhanced functionality. To learn more about P3 Hotel Software solutions, please visit www.P3hotels.com.

Andrea Mane
STORY HIGHLIGHTS

Absenteeism and high turnover rates are at an all-time high, negatively impacting financial outcomes, productivity, and employee morale.

Compensation and wellbeing are the key factors for motivating and retaining employees.

Here are six realistic ways to implement a leadership strategy that fosters engagement and workplace wellbeing.

Absenteeism and high turnover rates are two of the most common difficulties that leaders are facing in todays tricky employment market where employees are leaving their jobs more frequently and feeling less committed than ever before. While these phenomena are affecting all industries, the services industry is particularly hard hit.

Challenges in the hospitality industry

The hospitality industry experiences significant employee turnover and absenteeism, having historically had one of the highest turnover rates among private sectors, even prior to the pandemic. These factors pose a substantial financial burden on hospitality companies, resulting in lost productivity and incurring costs related to recruitment, selection, and training.

Market data demonstrates the severity of the situation:

In 2022, the hospitality industry had a 146% increase in lost days due to illnesses compared to 2019, according to People HR.

In 2021, the accommodation and food services industry had a record turnover rate of 86.3%.

The hospitality industry has the highest turnover rates of any sector, according to a recent study by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).

How can leaders reduce absenteeism and turnover rates?

The solution to these prickly issues can be found by giving employees what they need to feel fulfilled and be successful in their jobs. According to a 2022 study by Gallup, compensation ( i.e. income and benefits) and wellbeing-related issues have become the most important factors for employees considering a job. Offering a better work environment, with more perks and collaboration, may help achieve long-lasting employee engagement and commitment, thereby reducing absenteeism and turnover while increasing efficiency and productivity.

Leaders can work to reduce absenteeism and turnover rates by implementing the following tips based on wellbeing leadership:

1. Provide flexibility and work-life balance

Flexibility in the workplace is one of the major themes associated with wellbeing at work. In the post-pandemic workplace, a fair amount of work can be done remotely, helping employees take ownership of their work-life balance and organize their day-to-day autonomously. In the hospitality industry, the challenge is a bit different as most of the work has to be done on-site and at a specific time, limiting options in terms of autonomous arrangements and flexibility. Consequently, leaders of the hospitality industry have to define their own ways of offering flexible options. The solutions can take many forms including flexible scheduling, cross-training, compressed work weeks, etc. Heres what that means:

Flexible scheduling

gives staff members more autonomy when it comes to defining their planning. For some, it might mean having everything planned early on; for others, it might leave more room for last-minute adaptation. This solution requires a more collaborative approach to scheduling from management, but it definitely helps foster equity and commitment.

Cross-training

means developing a more agile workforce that can take on several roles in the organization. It increases flexibility as there are more possibilities when scheduling staff.

Compressed work weeks

allow employees to work the same number of hours but in fewer days. This could mean four ten-hour days instead of five eight-hour days, for instance. Overall, the key to flexibility is about empowerment. It means offering options and letting staff members determine what works best for their work-life balance.

2. Connect company purpose with personal goals

Another driver of employee wellbeing is the alignment of purposes: being able to tie the organizations purpose with ones individual values. An organizational purpose is a driver of employee engagement. Purpose is highly valued by employees and tends to increase engagement levels:

According to Deloitte, purpose-driven organizations with engaged collaborators experience 40% more talent retention.

According to Gallup, engaged collaborators are 17% more productive, and organizations with high engagement have 81% less absenteeism.

The challenge here lies in defining this "purpose" and how it is embodied in the organization, its processes and key behaviors. It's not a matter of declaring a "purpose" for the sole sake of employer branding, but of bringing it to life in the organization's actions and encouraging employees to identify with it. This can be notably done by engaging employees in the definition of the organizations purpose and in the development of key behaviors.

3. Promote collaborative work

A collaborative work environment enhances the feeling of wellbeing in the workplace. It's an ideal strategy to foster engagement because it drives the collective exchange of ideas, innovation, and inspires everyone to be more effective. Collaborative work also contributes to professional and personal development.

The hospitality industry has traditionally been characterized by rigorously defined roles, and developing a collaborative mindset might represent a challenge for some of the more conventional organizations.

Some measures can be implemented to foster collaboration, such as cross-training already mentioned earlier, or different forms of job shadowing.

The common denominator of both approaches is to develop an increased knowledge of what other people are doing within the organization and generate more opportunities for collaboration. The bottom line is that by knowing what your colleagues do, you are more likely to be able to help them or to ask them for advice or help on your own tasks.

4. Celebrate the small victories of collaborators

Celebrating team successes is a way to foster engagement, trust, and respect among collaborators. When achievements are recognized, people feel acknowledged and know that they are an important part of the company. Victories help to raise morale and increase motivation. In addition, they allow for the identification of processes that yield good results and can continue to be implemented.

Celebrating successes plays an important role in the development of wellbeing at work, because it is an opportunity to offer a form of regular recognition to employees: it not only rewards good behavior and actions, but above all shows an attitude of benevolence and inclusion with staff. Its also a motivating factor for teams who can contribute to setting achievable goals, meeting them, and celebrating those sucesses together. These moments of pride and sincere appreciation are instrumental in developing a work environment that fosters wellbeing.

5. Create an environment for open communication

Communication is an indispensable factor in leadership processes. It triggers positive changes and promotes good professional relationships. The creation of an environment that fosters transparent communication is also an interesting avenue for developing wellbeing at work. Where organizational communication is traditionally represented as top-down and oriented mainly around the organization's objectives, open and transparent communication also aims at bottom-up and lateral communication, with not only functional objectives, but also the development of a sense of community.

Creating this environment thus requires to have bottom up and lateral processes, as well as a global mindset for communication, both as a speaker and as a listener. It requires leaders to demonstrate this mindset by having candid conversations and by listening to what people have to say.

6. Provide opportunities for growth

A final way to foster wellbeing among employees is to provide opportunities for personal and professional growth. Developing these opportunities requires having an understanding of the current skills and qualities that employees possess and matching these (or not) with the future positions and interests of the organization. It also requires leaders to acknowledge individuals interests and aspirations when identifying potential career paths and opportunities. As with flexible work, the keyword here is to empower people when it comes to their personal and professional growth: the role of the organization is to offer options, and help people choose what is right for them and map out how to achieve their goals.

Putting wellbeing first

In sum, developing a wellbeing orientation within an organization goes far beyond tangible offerings. It requires a shift of mindset that puts staffs wellbeing at the core of the organizations preoccupations and empowers it. The ideas presented in this article can be pretty challenging and may require substantial adaptations from leadership, but these solutions can yield great results: not only in terms of absenteeism and turnover, but also when it comes to engagement and commitment.

EHL Hospitality Business School

Communications Department

+41 21 785 1354

EHL

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How Hotel Size and Location Affect Group Demand and Average Daily Rates

Excerpt from CoStar

Hotels in urban markets have yet to fully recover to pre-pandemic levels of group occupancy and rates, while resorts and suburban hotels have surged ahead.

As summer in the Northern Hemisphere wanes and peak leisure travel season comes to an end, hoteliers hope a recovery in group demand will pick up the slack.

It's anyone's guess when business travelers and large groups will return to hotels at their historical norms. But hotel revenue managers can examine the booking patterns of today's group business to drive future bookings and rates.

During a data presentation titled "Group Size Matters" at the recent Hotel Data Conference, Emmy Hise, CoStar Group's senior director of hospitality analytics, shared some performance metrics of group-business-oriented hotels with varying meeting space. The data set compared trailing 12-month performance through June 2023 to the same period in 2017, which Hise said is an exact calendar match to 2023 in terms of how holidays fell.

Of note, group occupancy appears to be fairly consistent Tuesday through Sunday for hotels that have 25,000 square feet of meeting space or less. But in hotels with greater than 25,000 square feet of meeting space, Tuesdays and Wednesdays had higher group occupancy than the other days of the week.

Regardless of hotel size, group occupancy on Sundays was down the most, which Hise said isn't surprising. Still, average daily rates for group demand were high, even with lower occupancy in the segment on Sunday nights.

"As hoteliers, a lot of us have learned that dropping rate doesn't necessarily induce demand. We might as well keep rates where they are and we will have lower operating expenses at a lower occupancy," Hise said.

She added that business travel for meetings or events is less likely on Sundays, unless travelers have the advantage of adding a day or two onto a business trip for some leisure purposes, which the industry refers to as "bleisure" travel.

"People covet their personal time now. They do not want to travel on a Sunday for a meeting," Hise said. "They want that personal time, unless they are coming for bleisure [and] they are making a longer stay."

There was a noticeable decrease in transient room rates between Saturday and Sunday at these hotels, and Hise said it's likely that slightly lower room rates could do more to convince leisure travelers to book Sunday nights than they could group business travelers. That might explain why group rates stayed high on Sunday nights, consistent with the other nights of the week.

"But why drop the group rate? Let's just keep it up because we know even if [guests are] kind of sneaking in on that group rate, keep it at closer to where that transient rate is so we're capitalizing on the rate overall," she said.

Click here to read complete article at CoStar.
Guestroom at the Hotel Fiona (formerly Carriage Inn) in San Francisco

Oxford adds Hotel Julian, SoMa House, Hotel Garrett, and Hotel Fiona to their Bay Area portfolio

Chicago-based Oxford Capital Group, LLC announces the upcoming debut of four rebranded hotels: Hotel Julian San Francisco (formerly Hotel Vertigo, and originally Empire Hotel), SoMa House (formerly Americania Hotel), Hotel Garrett (formerly Good Hotel), and Hotel Fiona (formerly Carriage Inn), now accepting reservations starting in mid-September and October with introductory pricing. In the Bay Area, Oxford currently owns and operates Hotel Griffon on the Embarcadero, Inn at Union Square and King George Hotel in Union Square, Creekside Inn in Palo Alto, as well as Hotel Los Gatos. Oxford Capital Group's wholly owned affiliate, Oxford Hotels & Resorts, LLC, will continue to manage these properties post reopening.

"We are sanguine about the long-term prospects of downtown San Francisco, which has proven resilient over a number of economic cycles and challenges," says Sarang Peruri, Chief Operating Officer of Oxford Capital Group, LLC and Partner of Oxford Hotels & Resorts, LLC. "By investing in these four properties as well as coming off recent comprehensive refreshes of Hotel Griffon and Hotel Los Gatos, our local portfolio of nine hotels is poised to differentiate itself and attract new customers."

With these developments, Oxford has proven its commitment to rebuilding and enhancing the surrounding communityand in particular the SoMa neighborhoodas it fell victim to homelessness and crime during the pandemic. After being utilized by the city for nearly three years as some of the first hotels in the city to provide quarantine facilities during COVID, in close partnership with city officials, including District Supervisor Matt Dorsey, District Attorney Brooke Jenkins, San Francisco Police Department Captain Luke Martin, and Mayor London Breed, these properties are poised to reopen, bringing modern design, refreshed hospitality, high touch service, and guest-driven amenities for business, leisure and convention travelers.

"As we expand our West Coast presence, we are proud to bring Oxford's commitment to compelling design, quality service, and enjoyable and safe community-driven experiences to these new properties," shares George Jordan, President of Oxford Hotels & Resorts, LLC. "SoMa will soon have new, vibrant public spaces and food & beverage experiences for locals and visitors to enjoy; somewhat of a 'living room' for the neighborhood."

In late 2022, Oxford began its efforts in refreshing and repositioning the properties. The initial focus was the guestrooms and lobby areas to allow for a soft reopening. Later this year and early next year, Oxford will debut additional guestrooms (adding nine rooms at SoMa House and four rooms at Hotel Garrett) and multiple new food and beverage facilities described below.

"On behalf of the City of San Francisco, I proudly welcome this bold investment in the South of Market neighborhood, and am eager to see the vibrancy, excitement, and visitation these new hotels will bring to the community and city at large," shares San Francisco Mayor London Breed. "Oxford's efforts here are an example of the kind of strong commitment that shows people are betting on San Francisco and that our future is bright. We have been, and look forward to continuing work alongside Oxford to make sure these properties are successful and the surrounding neighborhood is welcoming and safe for visitors, workers, and residents."
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How AI will affect artist and songwriter copyrights [Paul Goldman]

Paul Goldman, a leader in digital music rights management, sheds light on how we can expect AI to affect the copyrights of artists and musicians.

by Paul Goldman, founder of digital rights management platform Muserk

The other day, I asked an expert how AI will positively affect the copyrights of artists. They told me: AI will enable more accurate identification and enforcement of copyrighted works and streamline these processes. When I asked the same expert how AI will negatively affect these copyrights, they said that it could complicate ownership and licensing, and raise questions about originality and authorship.

Its a telling contrast. Asked for AIs upside, the expert gave confident, specific predictions of AIs benefits. Asked for AIs downside, they hedged about complications and raising questions.

Do I need to tell you that this expert was AI?

For what its worth, Im human, and, like anyone whose music career began before the early 00s, I have a bone-deep knowledge of what pre-digital vs. post-digital means. When I talk to creators today, I talk partly as a creator with a guitar on my lap, writing and recording music, and partly as a tech founder whose company [link Muserk.com] manages millions of creators copyrights worldwide. But I also speak as a lifelong investor in quality of vision, craftsmanship, performance, soul. And these properties are already being drastically redefined, as the disruption of AI makes the early-00s arrival of Napster seem like a hiccup.

In 2008, I was among countless creators whose sounds, music, and videos were appearing on major networks and platforms like YouTube without getting a dime of the royalties many of us need to survive. As this reality sank in, I began a path toward founding a copyrights management company, one that protects the royalties of creators whose works are globally streaming with tools equal to the task: cutting-edge scalable AI technology, similar to ChatGPT, that can penetrate the massive global database of a Spotify or Youtube and find lost royalties like so many needles in a million haystacks.

Inevitably, some bad actor would slightly morph or mask the fingerprints of a protected track in order to sell or share it themselves, and make our job much harder. Instead of merely locating the disconnected music, wed have to determine which of the ten or more deep-fake versions was the actual copyrighted work. These minor acts of creative piracy become something else when they start to scale. And AI, to say the least, is all about scale.

Spotify admitted to pulling 750k fraudulent tracks

A little over a year ago, a Spotify exec admitted that the platform had to pull down some 750,000 songs that theyd discovered were streaming fraudulently. This figure is almost certainly an underestimate, and, crucially, it was given before AI agents began flooding distributors with millions of soundalike tracks, each stamped out in minutes.  Its hard to overstate how much this is likely to change music and, potentially, us.

Music isnt made of algorithms; its made of touch, gesture, feelings, and experiences of people who create their work in timewhat we call authenticity. By mimicking these things, increasingly well at unbelievable speeds, AI-generated music risks degrading these core qualities, populating a world with infinite variations of finite sources that erode their emotional resonance. Add algorithmic curation that reproduces winning formulae endlessly and exponentially and its easy to imagine a flood of homogenous content that drowns out and impoverishes diverse and less-known artistsor what we might call musics Future.

Two opposing groups

Two opposing groups tend to form at the dawn of a revolutionary technology: One is the monolithic entities at the top of the food chain, who fight the new challenge to their dominance. The other is composed of first-movers: smaller, independent gamblers who move swiftly as they build things solely for consumers. Just where in this framework youd put Grimes, whose new Elf.Tech invites users to take her recorded vocals to use in AI-generated songs (splitting DSP royalties with her), is beyond me. Clearly, the personal partner of a world-famous multibillionaire can experiment with payment structures in a way most musicians cant. But shes still onto something.

Before Universal forced Apple and Spotify to remove the viral AI-generated Drake-Weeknd mash-up Heart On My Sleeve, its creator had already released a viral Bad Bunny-Rhianna mash-up as others posted AI-made soundalikes of Oasis, Elvis Presley, Kanye West, and other popular artistswhich listeners loved while knowing they were fake. In a way, Heart on My Sleeve is a perfect fanfare for this paradigm shift, since both Drake and the Weeknd are audibly products of digital music-making: mediated, processed, digitally shaped and enhanced. Both artists were, in different ways, liberated by the digital revolution. What we need to decide is whether their successors should have to compete against clones of themselves.

If AI is a tsunami

AI platforms like ChatGPT have already trained on unbelievably vast stores of recordings by songwriters and musicians who didnt consent to it, and the results are changing the world. Some people, like AI rap label CEO Anthony Martini, dont seem to think the music worlds worth saving. Think about the biggest stars in the world, he told Music Business Week. How many of them are just vessels for commercial endeavors? If AI is a tsunami, I say we make the music business a vessel to carry artists as it rises. Adjust how money flows through the new AI infrastructure. Redefine artist, owner, and user. Develop new rules for rewarding worth. To make this vessel able to carry human artists into the future. And not wait for Senators or AI leaders to do it for us.

Barely a month ago, Tennessees Marsha Blackburn asked OpenAI founder Sam Altman to give a concrete commitment not to train AI models on artists copyrighted works or use their voices without consent. Altman responded with vague pleasantries, saying that artists deserve control, that they should benefit from this sea change. Id find this reassuring if ChatGPT hadnt told me the same thing.

Paul Goldman is a serial entrepreneur and founder of Muserk, a leader in the space of AI-driven rights management. With the mission to collect every royalty everywhere, Muserk has quickly become a leader in modern global rights management for music, comedy, spoken word, and video.

Driven by Muserks patented cutting-edge AI technology, Blue Matter, Muserk protects and monetizes over 10M copyrights around the world and across all media formats. Through Muserks efforts, Goldman has helped clients/rights holders from over 50 countriesincluding publishers, copyright societies, record labels, and artistsidentify their digital content, collecting previously undiscovered royalties (totaling millions of unclaimed dollars) for music and video. Since Muserks inception, the company has received the prestigious honor as one of Inc. Magazines Fastest-Growing Private Companies in 2021 and 2022, and has been praised by the likes of Billboard, Variety, Deadline, etc.

Prior to Muserk, at the age of 23, Goldman founded Ear Goo, Inc., (aka The Goo) an award- winning television music production company best known for its work with brands such as MTV, McDonalds, Mercedes and The Super Bowl. Goldman has been honored with almost every industry award in this arena including Beacon, Clio, Addy, Promax/BDA and the Telly. His passion for music and entrepreneurship led him to found Muserk in 2017 to correct the break-down in the royalty rights chain for all rights holders across all platforms. Paul is a graduate of the prestigious Berklee College of Music in Boston, MA and currently lives

in New York City.

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How indie artists can unlock the massive Brazilian music market

With a population of 214 million, the Brazilian music market is great for artists to find new fans. Learn more about how you can get started regardless of the genre.

by ERIKA PARR from CD Babys DIY Musician [VIDEO BELOW]

Lets dive into some compelling reasons why Brazil deserves your attention:

If youre an independent artist looking to expand your reach and tap into a vibrant music scene, Brazil should be at the top of your list. This culturally rich country boasts fascinating statistics that make it a goldmine for musicians seeking new horizons. We prepared this guide on how unlock the Brazilian Music Market, for you, Indie artists!

1. Diverse and Tech-Savvy Audience

Brazils population of around 214 million people presents an incredible opportunity for artists to connect with a vast audience. Luminati reports that three out of four Brazilians having access to the internet, music streaming has become a significant driver of the countrys music industry growth. This tech-savvy population creates a perfect environment for artists to showcase their music on digital platforms and gain a strong following.

2. Eclectic Musical Tastes

Although Sertanejo remains the top musical genre, music is ingrained in the Brazilian DNA, and the nations eclectic musical tastes reflect this fact.

From local Brazilian Traditional Music to globally popular genres like Pop, Brazilians appreciate a wide range of musical styles. This diverse musical landscape means that your music has the potential to resonate with a variety of listeners, making Brazil a fertile ground for expanding your fanbase.

3. Eager Live Event Attendees

Live events hold a special place in the hearts of Brazilian music enthusiasts.

A staggering one-third of online consumers in Brazil will spend money on live events. This eagerness to attend live shows creates a prime opportunity for artists to captivate audiences and create memorable experiences.

Brazilian fans are not only excited and loyal but also highly engaged on social media platforms, making them easily reachable for event promotions.

Have you ever wondered why most live concert for big acts are recorded in Brazil?Here is why:

Crazy Excited Fans: Man, Brazilian fans are next level! They bring the heat, energy, and die-hard loyalty. When global artists drop by, the crowds go wild. That electric vibe? Perfect for a live recording. Trust me, both the artist and us fans totally dig it. Cool Cities & Massive Stages: Brazils got some rocking cities  think Sao Paulo, Rio, and Belo Horizonte. And the venues? Massive! Ever heard of the Maracana Stadium in Rio? That place is HUGE and has seen some iconic gigs. Epic Throwbacks: Brazil has been the backdrop for some killer gigs. Remember Queen at Rock in Rio in 85? Legendary! No wonder they wanted to record that magic.

Marina Amanos Tips for Breaking into the Brazilian Market

Marina Amano

To offer you practical insights on breaking into the Brazilian music market, weve enlisted the expertise of Marina Amano, the founder of Listo Music, an artistic producer and marketing agency specialized in music. Marina has worked with numerous Brazilian artists and shared some valuable tips for independent artists aiming to conquer the Brazilian scene:

Collaboration is Key: Connect with Brazilian artists in your musical niche and explore collaboration opportunities. This can lead to cross-country tours and expanded fanbases.

Connect with Brazilian artists in your musical niche and explore collaboration opportunities. This can lead to cross-country tours and expanded fanbases. Leverage Music Conferences: Research and participate in Brazilian music conferences like SIM Sao Paulo, Musica Mundo, Hacktown, FIMs, COMA, Porto Musical, Feira da Musica, among others.These events offer showcase opportunities to help you connect with industry professionals and fans. Check them out!

Research and participate in Brazilian music conferences like SIM Sao Paulo, Musica Mundo, Hacktown, FIMs, COMA, Porto Musical, Feira da Musica, among others.These events offer showcase opportunities to help you connect with industry professionals and fans. Check them out! Seek Booking Agencies : If you already have a solid fanbase in Brazil, consider partnering with local booking agencies to facilitate show negotiations.

: If you already have a solid fanbase in Brazil, consider partnering with local booking agencies to facilitate show negotiations. Government Support: Look into government-supported projects that can help subsidise your tour in Brazil, reducing financial barriers.

Look into government-supported projects that can help subsidise your tour in Brazil, reducing financial barriers. Tailored Digital Marketing: Engage Brazilian audiences through effective digital marketing campaigns. Collaborate with professionals who understand the nuances of the Brazilian market, ensuring your message resonates authentically.

Do I need a Visa to play live music in Brazil?

The answer to that question will vary depending on where you are located. However, before making plans, please check the official Brazilian travel agency website, with specific information about artists wanting to come to Brazil.

If youre considering expanding your music journey, Brazil might just be your next big stage!

Remember, the language of music is universal, but embracing local nuances can fast-track your success in the Brazilian music landscape.

Good luck on your Brazilian adventure!

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Central Berkshire Reviews Regional Agreement Draft

DALTON, Mass.  Central Berkshire Regional School District is referring a draft of a new regional agreement to its lawyers to ensure clarity.

The School Committee meeting was presented the draft on Thursday by Todd Emerson, chair of the Regional Agreement Amendment Ad Hoc Committee.

The ad hoc committee has been working on the draft for the past year and received aid from Massachusetts Association of Regional Schools consultant Stephan Hemman. MARS serves as a consultant to aid districts in creating regional agreements between towns.

The draft was worked on by representatives from all the town's involved, not just School Committee members.

The latest draft revises a lot of the language from the 2008 version of the agreement and incorporates information to satisfy the state Department of Elementary and Secondary Education.

"There's information there that was put in only to satisfy DESE because DESE really didn't exist when the original was written. So, there are a lot of good things that happened in what we have in front of us," School Committee member Richard Lacatell said.

Amendments also included in the draft are the capital costs to towns when a school is under renovation or significant repair, other post-employment benefits, and the withdrawal process, he said.

The draft addresses issues that they have been negotiating with the towns for a while including an "applicable" approach to approving capital projects, Lacatell said.

The ad hoc committee also added a "roundtable meeting" in February to give member towns an opportunity to discuss the budget prior to the public hearing to give an idea of what's coming, Hemman said.

However, Lacatell said there are other issues that could have been debated and addressed to make the School Committee more efficient and responsive, and made the assessments to towns more fair, but in many cases those were not brought up.

The current draft represents a "small bite instead of a large bite that would be far more controversial," he said. So, it's understandable why these issues were not brought up.

He also had concerns regarding some of the language, referring to some sections as unclear and contradictory and noted that the agreement has "errors" in it that need to be addressed.

This agreement is going to be utilized for a number of years so it should be a "perfect" document, Lacatell said. "While I don't agree with all the decisions the ad hoc committee made, I'm not suggesting we overrule them, I know it took a long time to do whatever was done. I just think it should be made as good as we can make it and it's significantly short on proofreading."

He referenced the Section 11 that states any money the district receives for "payment of funded indebtedness" and its share of OPEB costs shall only be used for such purpose or deposited in a Massachusetts bank or trust.

"I think that we don't always keep all our money with Massachusetts banks. I mean, there used to be a state repository for funds that we could get very good earnings. We're talking potential millions of dollars here. I think it's important where we can leave the money," Lacatell said

He also said the section regarding a public hearing for the budget, and how often the regional agreement is reviewed is unclear and referenced Section 2 as an example, explaining that the requirement to fill a committee vacancies within three weeks of the posting date is "unreasonable."

Another committee member questioned the transportation section of the agreement because it does not include the preschools, rather it only refers to providing transportation to district students enrolled in kindergarten through Grade 12.

The reason for this is because the preschools are tuition based, Emerson said.

Although the agreement does not include transportation for preschools that does not mean the district can not find a way to provide transportation for the preschools in the future, Superintendent Leslie Blake-Davis said.

There are families that are in need of transportation, especially those farther out in the Becket and Cummington areas, so that is on the district's radar, she said.

Lacatell said it is not his intention to delay this; he just wants everything to be correct before it goes to the towns.

Hemman recommended that the committee send the draft to the district counsel to address some of the language concerns that Lacatell brought up and then hold another meeting at which the School Committee and ad hoc committee can work together and revise the draft.

Once that is complete, the district should send the agreement to town counsel for all its member towns, he said. From there, it will go to the Department of Education for approval before it can be presented at town meetings.

The committees will likely have to get together again to make additional changes based on the feedback they receive, he said, and added that the School Committee might want to hold some informational meetings before going to town meetings.
Mass MoCA Welcomes New Tenant, Administrator

Morgan Everett is the new head of public initiatives and real estate for the museum.

NORTH ADAMS, Mass.  The Mass MoCA Commission on Monday welcomed a new artist and a new administrator at the museum.

Christopher Pollock was approved an art-making gallery space of almost 500 square feet on the first floor of Building 13 at Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art beginning Sept. 1. He creates sculptures in natural materials and metal and mobiles that he described as "picture a Calder with paddles that look like a reptile." His work can be seen here

Pollock said he and his wife, Chrissie, moved to Hancock five years ago and he has been looking for a makerspace for some time.

"I just want a place to make make art," he said. "I've been making it in a small, small, little space and it's nice to expand."

His said his hours would probably be Thursdays to Monday or Tuesdays, but could change depending on his travel. The makerspace will also allow him to sell his work directly to the public.

"I've always had other people sell for me and I've never had a public, exposed makerspace. It has always been my garage or my shed or barn," he said. "So I'm excited. I'm excited to be working where there'll be other artists, too. It's always been kind of solitary. So this will be a new experience for me."

Deputy Director Tracy Moore said the museum has looked at Building 13 as space for creative practice and cultural partners, noting Assets for Artists is in the building, Gary Lichtenstein Editions. "So we're thrilled to have Christopher and his wonderful work join the fray there," she siad.

Moore also introduced Morgan Everett, the new head of public initiatives and real estate for the museum.

Everett was most recently director of government relations and real estate development at the Sundance Institute in Park City, Utah, which operates the Sundance Film Festival. At Mass MoCA, he will oversee tenant leasing operations and public initiatives in real estate in ensuring a "healthy creative campus as aligned with Mass MoCA strategic plan," he said.

He said he moved his family to the Berkshires, seeing a "unique and beautiful place."

"With so much history and incredible sense of place, joining an organization and a region that's alive with possibilities and that's what brought us here," he said, adding that he saw a lot of similarities with Park City, a defunct mining town that's turned into "a world class resort destination" because of the influx of arts and recreation and entrepreneurs over the past 40 years.

Moore told the commission on that the museum will kick off its 25th anniversary on Memorial Day weekend next year.

"We'll celebrate for an entire year through the following May so look forward to having all of you join, celebrating Mass MoCA's incredible beautiful history and looking forward to all the possibility as Morgan mentioned, in our bright future ahead," she said.

The 13-acre campus that had been occupied by the Arnold Print Works and later Sprague Electric Co. opened to the public on May 30, 1999. Then the largest contemporary art museum in the world, it had been more than a decade in the making and its impact on the city was still an unknown.

Since then, the museum's nearly doubled in size and has an estimated $52 million annual economic impact on the region.

Of course, that was before the pandemic, when it was seeing 160,000 visitors are year. Moore said the numbers are coming up.

"We've been having a great busy summer as I think all of you know it's been robust and exciting and energized on campus," she said. "Getting close to our prepandemic numbers of high season attendance, not quite there, but getting there."

More than 6,000 people had attended the Modest Mouse/Pixies concert on Saturday night and the three-day Fresh Grass Festival returns at the end of the September.

In addition, the museum has opened the Research and Development Store on the first floor in Building 4. This is the second retail space in addition to the gift shop in the lobby.

"It's a combined gallery and retail space that also has public programming," Moore said. "We've launched a series and an author talk series this summer corresponding with our Chalet dates, and other event dates on campus."
The Vietnam War mural in Pittsfield lists the names of casualties and veterans honored on the painting. Mayor Linda Tyer expresses her gratitude for those who served. State Rep. Tricia Farley-Bouvier says its important that those who served never be forgotten. PreviousNext

Pittsfield's 'Lest We Forget' Mural Gets New Life



Vietnam veteran Martha Green, who is portrayed on the mural, sings the national anthem and 'America the Beautiful.'

PITTSFIELD, Mass.- A memorial to the Vietnam War has a new life on Pearl Street after the mural was moved and revitalized.



On Tuesday, the city unveiled "Lest We Forget" mural in its new location surrounded by nearly 100 officials and community members.



The artwork honors and remembers Berkshire County's military personnel who were killed in action in Vietnam and veterans of the war who are living today.



"We are here today to honor that and remember these 27 veterans killed in action," said Fran Tremblay of Vietnam Veterans of America James E. Callahan Berkshire County Chapter 65, who is depicted in the mural.



"If you notice, all the leaflets coming out of the helicopter are in black and white and those are the veterans that were killed. All the pictures surrounding them with the color are veterans that are living now and were involved in a lot of this mural."



The original 1991 scene was created on 101 First St. and then moved to West Housatonic Street in 2004. A couple of years ago, efforts were announced to restore and move the worn mural from the spot at the intersection of West Housatonic and South Street, which was not optimal for viewing.



After being deemed as historical by the Historical Commission, it received $15,000 in Community Preservation Funds last year.



The "new" work was painted by Ghi Sign Co. of Canaan, Conn., on the north side of the Intertek building and was certified by Hill-Engineers Architects Planners Inc.



Mayor Linda Tyer said the most important and heartfelt detail of the work is "killed in action."



"My dad, as some of you may know, is a veteran of the United States Air Force and served during the Vietnam War. I was one of the lucky daughters whose dad came home but the photographs of the men displayed on this mural did not come home and we can never fully know the grief that that their families have experienced over these long years," she said.



"It's also important to note that when Vietnam veterans who survived the battles by air, by sea, and by land and came home to the United States, they were not welcomed and Vietnam veterans who are here today will remember the pain they felt upon arriving home and not being greeted and celebrated for their sacrifice and their service. So today, to all of you, I extend my sincere heartfelt gratitude. Thank you for your service. We honor you and we are proud to stand with you today."

The 27 Berkshire County residents who were killed in action during the Vietnam War:

James Henneberry

George Shufelt

Francis Bissaillon

David Borey

Edward Jarvis

John Pratt

Kevin Aldam

Russell Roulier

Paul Cronk, Jr.

Paul Conner

Chester Witanek

Howard Luscier

Peter Cook

Patrick Muraca

Gary Benjamin

John Malloy

Michael Casey

Charles Jaquins

James Termini

Michael Whalen

Charles Cummings

William Coakley

Peter Foote

Richard Davis

John Hartlage

Paul Krzynowek

Tristan Hayes

Honored in the mural:




iciHaiti - INTOX : Denial of the Armed Forces of Haiti





In a note dated August 28, 2023, the Secretariat of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Haiti (FAd'H) "formally denies the allegations suggesting that the Military Institution would have intervened the past weekend in the area called Canaan, northern suburb of Port-au-Prince.



Some testimonies report individuals showing off in uniform reminiscent of that usually used by the Military Institution in the field : we deplore this.



The Institution takes this opportunity to express its sympathy to the injured and to the relatives of the victims of this painful tragedy."



See also :

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-40370-haiti-flash-massacre-of-the-faithful-of-pastor-marco-official-version-of-the-pnh.html

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-40364-haiti-flash-pastor-marco-summoned-by-justice-for-the-canaan-massacre.html

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-40355-haiti-flash-a-faithful-march-against-the-canaan-gang-ended-in-a-bloodbath-video.html



IH/ iciHaiti


















Offering customers an enhanced shopping experience with flexible payment plans, Phoenix Petroleum Philippines, Inc.s LIMITLESS and BillEase today unveiled a groundbreaking partnership.

REVOLUTIONIZING THE RETAIL PAYMENT EXPERIENCE. From left to right: BillEase Business Development Officer for Enterprises  Lyka Palaganas, Head of Merchant Products  Kurt Molina, Phoenix Petroleum Philippines, Inc. General Manager for E-commerce  Kenneth Ocampo, and Merchant Acquisition and Onboarding Manager  Cherry Mae Poblete

With the integration of BillEase, customers can now conveniently purchase vouchers for Phoenix fuel, FamilyMart, Autoworx Plus, Phoenix SUPER LPG, Phoenix lubricants, and other partner merchants on the LIMITLESS app and opt to pay later through BillEase  all interest-free.

"After the launch of LIMITLESS, we understood the imperative need to transition to digital solutions in line with the new normal," stated Kenneth Ocampo, General Manager for E-commerce at Phoenix Petroleum Philippines, Inc. "Our alliance with BillEase is a strategic step forward in that direction. More than a mere rewards platform, we envision it as an encompassing lifestyle adaptation for our users, bringing unparalleled convenience and value in these ever-evolving times."

The partnership comes amidst unbanked Filipinos increasing adoption of digital payment methods, and in support of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas aim to digitize 50% of the volume and value of retail transactions by this year, as outlined in its Digital Payments Transformation Roadmap.

"We at BillEase have always been steadfast in our mission to provide Filipinos with accessible and convenient financial solutions," remarked Kurt Molina, BillEase Head of Products. "Collaborating with LIMITLESS amplifies our shared commitment to the digital revolution, ensuring that even the unbanked can access the rewards and conveniences of this new era. Together, we are not just adapting to the present; we are shaping the future of Filipino digital commerce."

LIMITLESS was launched amidst the pandemic in 2020, spearheading the strategic expansion of Phoenix Petroleum Philippines, Inc., and amplifying its lifestyle rewards program for its members. This drive complements the vision of BillEase, introduced in 2017, as an on-demand consumer finance app offering personal loan, e-wallet top-up, prepaid load, bills payment, gaming credits as well as a customizable buy now, pay later (BNPL), which allows customers to avail of card-free installment plans.

The LIMITLESS app offers free membership with no hidden fees. Downloading the LIMITLESS app empowers members to earn points and tap into an array of specially curated promotions and privileges. Earning points is simplified with transactions at partner merchants by presenting an in-app QR code.
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Eminem has formally objected to the use of his music by Republican presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy during his campaign trail.

The objection to the use of his songs comes after a video of the multimillionaire former biotech executive singing Lose Yourself went viral earlier this month.

Eminem has asked that his songs, collectively known as the Eminem Works, be removed from the music licence agreement entered into by Mr Ramaswamys campaign and music rights giant BMI.

The disclosure was made in a letter dated 23 August, first published by The Daily Mail on Monday, and sent to Mr Ramaswamys campaign counsel by a BMI executive.

BMI has received a communication from Marshall B. Mathers, III, professionally known as Eminem, objecting to the Vivek Ramaswamy campaigns use of Eminems musical composition (the Eminem Works) and requesting that BMI remove all Eminem Works from the Agreement, BMI executive Pamela Williams said in the letter.

Mr Ramaswamys campaign told CNN it will comply with Eminems request to stop using his music.

Will The REAL Slim Shady Please Stand Up? He didnt just say what I think he did, did he? said 38-year-old Mr Ramaswamy on X, formerly Twitter, using a sweat smile emoji and tagging the rapper.

Politicians are frequently sent cease and desist letters by music stars and labels.

In 2020, British rock legends The Rolling Stones threatened Donald Trump for using their songs during his campaign rallies.

Similarly, Queen raised a complaint after Mr Trump played We Are The Champions in the run up to the 2016 presidential elections.

The band also sought to block Mr Trump from playing We Will Rock You after the rock ballad was featured in its entirety in a Trump campaign ad in 2019.

Enjoy unlimited access to 70 million ad-free songs and podcasts with Amazon Music Sign up now for a 30-day free trial Sign up

Enjoy unlimited access to 70 million ad-free songs and podcasts with Amazon Music Sign up now for a 30-day free trial Sign up

In 2008, the Foo Fighters slammed John McCains campaign for using their song as part of his presential campaign.

Mr Ramaswamy, the youngest presidential candidate with no political experience, has been rising in some opinion polls and branded his rivals as bought and paid for.

The tech entrepreneur was at the centre of many of some of the most dramatic moments in last weeks first Republican primary debate.

I think I am the only candidate who has the capability of delivering a Reagan, 1980-style victory with a multi-ethnic, working-class coalition, particularly of people who are not just older, but people who are younger who we bring into our party, he told reporters last week after a campaign event in Iowa.

Mr Ramaswamy, a fierce Trump defender, faced plenty of incoming fire from his more experienced rivals, who appeared to view him as more of a threat than Ron DeSantis, the Florida governor trailing Mr Trump at a distant second for a long time in Republican primary polls.

Mr Trump, the overwhelming front runner in the primary contest, skipped the first debate last week.

He chose to give an interview to former Fox News host Tucker Carlson instead, which was released on X at the same time as the Republican debate.

Additional reporting by agencies
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A leading Chinese state-run newspaper has urged the British Museum to return its "stolen" artifacts in an editorial on the eve of a rare visit by the UK foreign secretary.

The statement came in Mondays edition of the Global Times just two days before James Cleverly's scheduled arrival in Beijing on Wednesday, in what would be the first visit by a British foreign secretary to China in five years.

The Global Times editorial called on the British Museum to return all Chinese cultural relics "acquired through improper channels to China free of charge.

It referred to Britains refusal over the years to return artifacts to other countries and accused the museum of adopting a resistant, protracted and perfunctory attitude.

The British Museum houses the biggest collection of Chinese relics anywhere in the West  at least 23,000  ranging from paintings that date back to the Tang dynasty (618-907) to bronze vessels dating to the dawn of China's civilisation.

Of these, the Global Times said about 2,000 pieces are display, and cited particularly significant examples which include The Admonitions of the Instructress to the Court Ladies by Gu Kaizhi, which the museum describes as a masterpiece and a milestone in Chinese painting history dating from between AD 400 and 700.

Other items cited in the editorial include the Liao tri-colored luohan statues; ritual bronzes from the Shang and Zhou dynasties and stone Buddhist sutra scrolls of the Wei and Jin dynasties.

It's difficult to trace how exactly China lost them to the British Museum, but most Chinese collections were certainly looted or stolen by Britain when it created and later took advantage of Chinas crisis, or even directly robbed China, the newspaper said.

Bronze crane, Qin dynasty (221 206 BC) (British Museum)

Whether or not the artifacts are up for discussion during the foreign secretary's meeting with his Chinese counterpart, a British law enacted in 1963 prohibits the museum from repatriating objects.

Questioning this law, the Global Times said it was "equivalent to the UK installing a threshold on its own door and then telling the owner of the relics that it cannot return the artifacts because it cannot get out of the door".

Part of a childs jacket during a photo call for the Chinas hidden century exhibition at the British Museum (PA)

It called the law "hypocritical and ridiculous", which was used as an excuse for refusing to fulfill international responsibility.

"In our view, the questionable origins of the millions of artifacts in the British Museum raise further concerns about what constitutes the 'largest' theft," it added.

The museum is currently holding a summer exhibit called "Chinas Hidden Century", highlighting a period of the Qing dynasty.

File: A series of early 8th century tomb figurines are displayed in a case at the British Museum on January 8, 2014 (Getty Images)

Speaking about Mr Cleverlys visit, Chinese government spokesperson Wang Wenbin said the two sides will have an "in-depth communication on Sino-British relations and international and regional issues of common concern.

We hope the British side will work with us to uphold the spirit of mutual respect, deepen exchanges, enhance mutual understanding and promote the stable development of Sino-British relations.

The relationship between the two nations has sunk to the lowest level in decades following disagreements over Beijing's assault on civil freedoms in Hong Kong, alleged rights abuses in the Xinjiang region and China's ongoing support for Russia since Moscows invasion of Ukraine.

The British foreign secretary in June said he would raise issues such as Xinjiang and Hong Kong with the Chinese government and request that Beijing lift sanctions on five British parliamentarians who have been vocal on the matter.

Mr Cleverly was initially scheduled to travel to Beijing in July but his trip was postponed, and his then-counterpart Qin Gang was later replaced as Chinese foreign minister by the veteran diplomat Wang Yi.
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A woman in China allegedly dumped her newborn baby in a rubbish bin after giving birth inside the lift of a residential building.

The woman, who has not been identified by authorities, was on holiday in Chongqing when she entered the lift with her suitcase on 21 August.

Surveillance footage from inside the lift shows the woman entering at 8.44pm (local time) and then crouching down in the corner to give birth, state-run news outlet the Global Times reported.

The woman was reportedly seen wiping blood from the baby and the soles of her shoes, before exiting the lift at 8.47pm (local time).

She then walks up to a rubbish bin where she dumps the newborn wrapped in tissue papers, according to the report. The woman also tossed some more tissues in the bin in an effort to hide the baby from plain sight.

An elderly man noticed her suspicious behaviour but found nothing after inspecting the bin, the report added.

The woman wiped off the blood stains on her shoes and left after taking another lift.

The baby was later discovered by residents of the building, who called the police for help, it was reported.

The baby was taken to a hospital and discharged after a few days, the Global Times quoted a hospital employee as saying. The newspaper said authorities were able to track down the mother and that the baby was handed over to her and her partners custody.

"During the baby's hospital stay, the child's mother and grandmother had been visiting," the staff member was quoted as saying.

District police in Chongqing told the Qilu Evening News that the baby was doing well, but that due to privacy concerns they were unable to share further details.

The incident has led to outrage among Chinese citizens online, one of whom described the woman as heartless.

She threw the baby into the rubbish bin like a piece of trash, a Weibo user wrote.
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A politician from Indias ruling Hindu nationalist Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is among six people charged in connection with the alleged gang-rape of a 45-year-old woman and the harassment of her minor daughter in the western Indian state of Rajasthan.

According to a police complaint, Mohan Jat, the BJPs district general secretary in Pali city, was accused along with two other men of allegedly raping a woman and harassing a minor on 24 August.

Three women have also been named in the complaint for allegedly helping the accused.

The woman said she was called by Mr Jat regarding a property deal after which he, along with the other accused men, allegedly raped her, reported the Indian Express.

Apart from Jat, three women have also been named as accused, as well as another man and an unknown person, said a local police official.

The woman claimed Mr Jat had photos of her that he had taken previously, according to the official.

The woman alleged the accused also harassed her daughter, the officer said.

We are presently investigating the case and no arrests have been made, the police said in a statement.

The official complaint was lodged a day after the alleged incident took place, said police.

The accused were charged for gang-rape, rape and offences under Indias stringent law against child abuse, called the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act.

The BJP unit for Pali district has denied the allegations.

Mr Jat told the Indian Express that he does not know the woman and claims to never have spoken to her.

I have built a colony and there are plots there which I sell. Whenever people contact me expressing interest in purchasing the plots, I ask them to visit the site, where my employees show them around. I dont meet them myself, he said.

The allegations against me are false and baseless. I have full faith in the justice system.

The incident has come to light a little more than a week after an official in the Delhi government was arrested for allegedly raping a teenager, who was the daughter of his deceased friend.

Premoday Khakha, a deputy director at the Women and Child Development department of Delhis ruling Aam Admi Party government, had taken over the 14-year-old girls informal guardianship after her father died in October 2020.
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Vladimir Putin is too busy to attend the G20 summit in India next month, the Kremlin has said.

The Russian president spoke on the phone with Indias Narendra Modi, who expressed his understanding that the Russian president will not travel to join the summit alongside the likes of Britains Rishi Sunak and US president Joe Biden, the Indian foreign ministry said.

Russia will instead be represented by the countrys foreign minister, Sergei Lavrov, during the G20 summit on the 9-10 September, the ministry said.

While expressing an understanding for Russias decision, PM (Modi) thanked President Putin for Russias consistent support to all initiatives under Indias G20 presidency, the Indian foreign ministry said in a statement.

Mr Putin has a busy schedule while his main focus at the moment is Russias military operation in Ukraine, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov told reporters, according to the Interfax news service.

On Tuesday, the Kremlin said Mr Putin and Mr Modi discussed bilateral relations which are developing progressively in the spirit of a specially privileged strategic partnership.

There were no warm words for the state of the two countries partnership in the readout from Indias side, however, which simply said the leaders reviewed progress on a number of issues of bilateral cooperation.

The news that Mr Putin will not be present comes amid the final stages of preparations in New Delhi to host what it says will be the largest gathering of G20 delegates yet.

Russias invasion of Ukraine has emerged as one of the biggest sticking points throughout Indias year-long G20 presidency, with leaders of Western countries including Mr Biden and Canadian prime minister Justin Trudeau expected to demand the strongest condemnation over Mr Putins actions in Ukraine.

India has managed to maintain close ties with both Russia and the US since the invasion began and has abstained from several UN resolutions to condemn the war, as well as avoiding joining Western-led sanctions. The country has taken advantage of large amounts of cheap energy imports and weapons supplies from Moscow.

Mr Trudeau said last week that he was disappointed with India for not extending an invitation to Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky to attend the G20 as a guest nation, and said he would raise the matter with the host country.

"Im disappointed that you wont be included," Mr Trudeau told Mr Zelensky during a phone conversation which was to mark the Eastern European countrys independence day.

"As you know, we will be speaking up strongly for you, and we will continue to make sure that the world is standing with Ukraine," Mr Trudeau added.

Indian foreign minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar had earlier confirmed that a discretionary invite was not extended to Mr Zelensky, despite the leaders request to Mr Modi.

India has instead invited nine other non-G20 countries to attend, including Spain, Bangladesh, Nigeria, Mauritius, Egypt, the Netherlands, Oman, Singapore and the United Arab Emirates.

It is seen as part of Indias efforts to keep geopolitically divisive issues from scuppering chances of reaching a consensus during the economic forum.

Indias G20 Sherpa, Amitabh Kant, said last month that the Ukraine war was not on Indias list of priorities for its G20.

The Kremlin has not yet confirmed whether Mr Putin will take part in the G20 summit in any capacity through a video link.

Mr Putin has scarcely set foot outside Russia since the Ukraine war began, and avoided travelling to the Brics summit in Johannesburg last week. His decision to address the talks via video link was largely seen as an outcome of the arrest warrant issued by the International Criminal Court, to which South Africa is a signatory.

Russia will itself be the host of the Brics summit next year, when the grouping will have an expande membership including six more nations.

On Tuesday, Mr Putin once again congratulated Mr Modi for Indias successful lunar exploration mission, after it became the first to achieve a soft landing near the Moons uncharted south pole with Chandrayaan-3.

Vladimir Putin and Narendra Modi stated that the two countries trade and economic cooperation showed positive dynamics and expressed their shared intention to consistently implement large-scale energy projects and work together to expand the international transport and logistics infrastructure, the Kremlin said.

It added that they discussed the importance of Brics expansion which undoubtedly would promote the growth of its influence in international affairs.
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Hawaiian Electric is defending itself after Maui County sued the utility company last week, blaming it for sparking the blaze that resulted in the worst wildfire in more than a century.

More than 100 people were killed, hundreds are still missing, and billions of dollars worth of damage was done by the time the wildfire subsided.

Hawaiian Electric said that high winds toppling power lines likely caused the initial fire, but said electricity had been turned off for several hours before a second fire started later in the afternoon, according to CNBC.

The company's CEO, Shelee Kimura, addressed the lawsuit in a statement on Sunday.

We were surprised and disappointed that the County of Maui rushed to court even before completing its own investigation, the CEO said. We believe the complaint is factually and legally irresponsible.

She said the lawsuit may "leave us no choice" but to show that the county, not the company, was responsible for the deadly fire.

Hawaiian Electric is arguing that while the initial downing of power lines did cause the initial brush fire, which began at 6.30am on the day of the fire and spread to a field near the Lahaina Intermediate School, Maui County firefighters doused the blaze and declared it extinguished.

Later that day, while Hawaiian Electric employees were repairing the lines, crew members spotted a fire approximately 75 yards from the field near the school. They reported it to authorities, the company said.

The utility company said that power had been shut off for hours by the time the crew spotted the second fire in the field near the school. It claims that by the time fire crews arrived to address the fire, it had already spread beyond their ability to contain it.

More than a dozen lawsuits have already been filed against Hawaiian Electric over its alleged role in the fire.

However, state, local, and federal investigations are still determining exactly how the fire started.

The utility company is reportedly working with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives  which sent an electric engineer to assist in the investigation  to prove that electricity had been shut off by the time the second fire began.
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A TikTok theory has gone viral about why theres been an uptick in young women named Bella among the many hopefuls looking to rush a sorority at the University of Alabama.

In recent years, the internet has been captivated by the competitive world of sorority recruitment season in Alabama, made famous by the #BamaRush hashtag on TikTok. The phenomenon even led to a 2023 Max documentary, titled Bama Rush.

This year, among the usual suspects of college freshman looking to join a sorority was, most notably, the name Bella. TikTok user Moxie (@shesgotmoxie21) noticed a surge in the name Bella, a nickname for the popular name Isabella, and made a connection.

In a video uploaded to the platform, Moxie explained her theory by compiling screenshots of multiple TikTok videos, each one posted by an aspiring sorority girl named Bella. Moxie wrote: Been trying to figure out why Bella is such a popular name on rushtok this year

The user theorised that there were so many young women named Bella rushing University of Alabama this year because the popular book, Twilight, was published 18 years ago on 27 September 2005. She noted this was the same year that the majority of 18-year-old girls in the new freshman class were born.

Moxie argued that parents were inspired to name their baby girls after Twilights protagonist, Bella Swan. Fittingly, Moxie used Olivia Rodrigos new single, Vampire, as the background to her TikTok.

The video has since been viewed over two million times. However, many people had either their minds blown or a total meltdown over Moxies theory. This literally crushed my will to keep going today, said one person on X, formally known as Twitter. To be clear its that twilight came out 18 years ago.

In Moxies comment section, one wrote that the Twilight sagaaaaa got them, while another refuted the theory, stating: Nope. All these Bellas to be headed to college would have been born on Aug 1, 2001-July 31, 2005. So some Bellas are pre-book.

The Bella Boom - as it was dubbed by one user - is especially prominent in childrens names after 2005, when author Stephenie MeyersTwilight series began to skyrocket in popularity. It reached new heights in 2008 when the books were adapted into blockbuster films, starring Kristen Stewart, Robert Pattinson, and Taylor Lautner.

On TikTok, one teacher wrote that her middle school students asked her why there were so many Bellas and Jacobs in their class, while another one noted there were three siblings named after Twilight characters in her class.

As Twilight gradually became a pop cultural juggernaut, the names Isabella and Bella reigned supreme among parents. According to the Social Security Administration (SSA), which releases an annual list of the top 1,000 most popular baby names in the US, noted that the name Isabella was already popular in 2005. It ranked as the sith most popular baby name for girls that year.

By the following year, Isabella cracked the top five and went on to top the list in 2009 and 2010, later becoming a top five mainstay until 2019. Meanwhile, Bella sat at 208th in the rankings, but peaked at 48 by 2010 and again in 2018.
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A pair of brothers died from cancer on the same day in the same hospital bed, just hours apart.

Francisco Antunes Sobrinho, 52, and younger brother, Eduardo Antunes da Silveira, 38, lost their lives on 19 August. The older brother was diagnosed with bowel cancer in May 2021. One month later, younger sibling Eduardo, was told he had liver cancer.

The brothers supported one another during their fight, but their conditions suddenly deteriorated.

Eduardo was rushed to a nearby hospital in Santa Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. He spent four days in hospital before passing away.

Younger brother, Joao Antunes Neto had been on the phone with his family discussing funeral arrangements when Francisco was rushed to the hospital.

Just a few hours later, he died in the same bed at the same hospital.

Bus driver, Joao, told local media: They were so close that they died in the same hospital bed. This is one of the greatest moments of suffering in my life and in the lives of my entire family.

(Jam Press)

(Jam Press)

The brothers were buried at Santa Cruz Public Cemetery, just 24 hours apart. Mayor, Paulo Cesar declared three days of official mourning in the city.
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Back-to-school shopping can create a hole in parents budgets at the best of times, but with a cost-of-living squeeze in full swing, money is particularly tight this year.

At a time when every cutback counts, here are some ways to save some money on the costs that will earn you top marks for effort.

1. Check what you have

This can be particularly useful if you have more than one child and need to pass items down.

When sorting clothing, create piles of those that are in good condition, those that need repairs, and items that are beyond salvaging.

Alice Haine, a personal finance analyst at investment platform Bestinvest, says: Carry out a full audit to see what uniform, stationery items, lunchboxes and water bottles you already have.

You may find unused items still in pristine condition at the back of a cupboard, or used items that are good to go for a second or third academic year  after all, you only want to buy new if you have to.

2. Create a sell pile

Haine suggests: If your child has outgrown some of their uniform, sell them on Facebook Marketplace or WhatsApp groups, and use the cash to buy new items. Vinted is worth a try, too.

3. List everything you need

Once youve sorted through everything, make a list of the items you need to acquire.

If you have a clear idea, youre less likely to waste money doubling up, plus, you can buy whats needed as and when you spot special offers.

Depending on your circumstances, it may also be worth checking your government website for grants which could help with school uniform costs.

4. Be clear on school rules

You could end up wasting your money if you buy items which dont match school policies.

Haine says: If you are heading to a new school, check the uniform policy before you buy. Some schools may demand a certain style or colour.

5. Team up with parents for bulk buys

Some multipack prices may seem like great deals, but you might not need four items, so team up with a fellow parent to share the cost, says Haine.

6. Remember that the cheapest price isnt always the best value

When it comes to shoes, it can pay to go for a slightly better brand, suggests Haine.

Cheap shoes can have a short shelf-life when you consider how much they get battered at school. Keep the receipt, because if shoes do fall apart over a short period of time, some stores may replace them with a new pair.

7. Make sure theres growing room

Always go a size up if your child is still growing, especially on the pricier items, such as blazers, to ensure you get the most out of the investment, says Haine.

Some brands even sell trousers with a grow-proof hem that can be let down and pressed with an iron, to ensure clothes last longer.

8. Go refurbished

Abigail Yearley, a spokesperson for website TopCashback.co.uk, says: There are plenty of trustworthy and reliable sites that sell second-hand or refurbished tech, which works as good as new. Just make sure it comes with good warranty before buying.

You may also be able to buy refurbished devices directly from the manufacturer, she says.

9. Look out for second-hand items

Check the schools website for information on buying second-hand uniforms.

Many schools offer a pre-loved uniform service, so checking if thats available to you should be the first point of action, suggests Yearley.

If thats not an option, check on the parents group chat if anyone is looking to give away or swap items they no longer need. Its also worth scouting out Facebook Marketplace and popping into your local charity shops.

10. Compare prices online

Browsing online is a fast way to research and compare prices.

Websites such as TopCashback can also help people to get some cashback on purchases from brands such as Clarks, Wilko and Dell, for example.

11. Look out for supermarket staples

Tesco, for example, is running a discount deal on selected stationery and lunchtime essentials for its Clubcard members, until September 7, subject to availability.

Yearley says: All the big supermarkets tend to run back-to-school events during the summer months, so make sure you keep an eye out for them.

Its especially worth checking out discount supermarkets like Aldi, as their back-to-school events are known for bargain prices.

Even if youve missed the special event, its worth checking their middle aisle, as often youll find things like stationery and lunchboxes, which are still cheaper than buying elsewhere.

12. Get something back for donating

M&S has expanded its shwopping scheme, with dedicated school uniform shwopping boxes in over 200 stores, to encourage families to donate pre-loved school uniform, to be resold in Oxfam and through a pilot shop with eBay.

As a thank you for shwopping school uniform, M&S Sparks customers can receive 20% off selected kids clothing from the retailer.

Similarly, if last years school shoes are now a battered pair of Kickers, you can recycle them through their Reskinned initiative, which will also get you 15 towards a pair for the new school year. And Schuh offer a 5 voucher for every pair of unwanted shoes you donate, as part of their Sell Your Soles scheme.

All these savings really do add up.
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A Japanese man who turned himself into a dogthrough a transformation that cost thousands has spoken for the first time on camera in his new look.

Toco, the mans new canine persona, spent more than 12,480 on the transformation in the past two years. His interesting aspiration caught the attention of many, which caused his dog journey to go viral online. Toco has never unveiled his true form to keep his identity concealed from those he sees daily, especially his coworkers.

His YouTube account, @I _want_to_be_an_animal, where he frequently posts videos of him doing human-like or dog-related activities like sipping on a bottle of coke or strolling in the park on all fours, has reached over 55,000 subscribers. In the videos, he never breaks character in the suit, always sticking to a strict dialogue of barking.

Now, he is ready to publicise himself as a dog further by appearing on EFE, a Spanish news agency. During the interview, he spoke about how being in a furry form makes him feel fulfilled. Toco admitted hed never felt completely himself with just his human body.

Since I was a child I wanted a change, the man confessed. When I am dressed in the suit I feel happy because my dreams come true.

Toco wasnt able to completely reconfigure his look permanently. So, the man reached out to a company called Zeppet to make the custom costume. He went on to admit the creation took about 40 days to make. The full look includes clawed paws, a long snout, tall ears, a tail, and full-body fur. In total, the get-up weighs about 8.8 pounds.

One Zeppet representative detailed the costume-making process. The point is that the skeleton of a dog can be reproduced on the skeleton of a human, they noted. Since the structure of the skeleton is very different, we spent a lot of time studying how to make it look like a dog.

While speaking to Mynavi, Toco opened up about why he chose to turn himself into a collie out of all canine breeds. I made it a collie because it looks real when I put it on, he said. My favourite is quadrupedal animals, especially cute ones.

Among them, I thought that a big animal close to me would be good, considering that it would be a realistic model, so I decided to make it a dog, Toco continued. I met such a condition and made collie, my favourite breed of dog.

Toco has received all kinds of support on his YouTube channel. Many have been inspired by his continued pursuit of a childhood dream.

Remember when we were little and wished we could transform into an animal and change back human sometimes- THIS DUDE CAN, a follower commented on a video of him eating dog food, while another added: Absolutely fabulous doggy suit.

The flood of encouragement has only motivated the man to keep inspiring others to follow suit if they want. I received all kinds of messages, among the positive messages, some tell me that they want to do what [Ive done], he admitted. This has allowed me to see that there are other people like me.

The Independent has contacted Toco for comment.
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People are praising a middle school students reaction to President Joe Biden visiting her classroom alongside his wife, First Lady Jill Biden.

On 28 August, the President of the United States and the First Lady headed to Eliot-Hine Middle School in Washington, DC, in honour of the first day of the 2023-2024 school years. In a video shared by The Recount on X - formerly known as Twitter - Biden made his way into one of the classrooms, prompting applause and cheers from students in the background, with one shouting: Joe Biden!

The video showed Biden giving a student a hug, while students in the seats continued cheering. The politician then posed for the camera with a young girl, who puckered up her lips and put on a funny a duck face while holding up a peace sign with her fingers.

The president laughed at the camera, pointed at the student, and joked: Shes the school principal. In response, she jokingly gave a thumbs up and said: Yeah.

After taking photos, the student also shared her excitement at the opportunity to shake hands with the US president, as she told her fellow classmates: Im shaking hands with the president... Im going to be famous!

Both Biden and the other students laughed at her remark, as he told the young girl that she was going to be president herself. The middle schooler agreed, and quipped to her classmates: Im going assistant president, yall.

In the comments of the post, many fans went on to praise the sweet interaction between Biden and the student.

Im going to be assistant President, yall. So cute! one responded on X, while another wrote: Im so jealous This is so cool.

A third wrote: The joy of the young woman with the president pretty much says it all.

This weeks visit to the middle school also kicked off several back-to-school activities for the First Lady, who is travelling to the Midwest later this week to celebrate teachers and highlight the mental health needs of students.

Dr Biden - who is also a longtime college professor - has continued her career outside of the White House, as she teaches English and writing at Northern Virginia Community College. She also taught at the college during the eight years that her husband was Vice President of the United States.

Shortly before the school year started in August 2022, Dr Biden recalled how she was set on keeping her teaching job when she first became the Second Lady. In an interview with Real Simple magazine, she described how she overcame the doubts that people had when it came to handling both jobs.

I think people were a little sceptical. Could I truly do it, since I was the first one to try it? she said. But I knew I wanted to teach. She said she told her staff: This is what I want to do. We have to figure it out.

She recalled how she was able to manage her teaching duties while her husband was vice president, saying: I saw it work then, and I knew we could figure out how to do it now.
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Love Island fans are rejoicing after season eight winners Ekin-Su Culculoglu and Davide Sanclimenti appeared to have rekindled their romance, just two months after announcing their split.

On Monday 28 August, the British-born Turkish actor seemingly confirmed that she and the Italian model are back together in an Instagram post. Culculoglu shared several photos from her 29th birthday celebrations in Turkey, captioning the post: Favourite pics from the Motherland #birthday.

In one photo, the rekindled couple could be seen smiling and gazing into each others eyes, as Sanclimenti held Culculoglu close to him. Another image showed the two both dressed in white and posing for the camera. Sanclimenti wrapped his arm around Culculoglus waist, while she placed her hand on his back.

Fans of the former couple - who announced in June that they had broken up after nearly a year of dating - instantly rushed to the comments as they declared that love really isnt dead.

MOM AND DAD ARE BACK TOGETHER, one Instagram user proclaimed under Culculoglus post.

I have officially died! My mom and dad are back together, another fan said.

So glad you two are back together, a third follower wrote.

Meanwhile, others expressed how glad they were that Culculoglu and Sanclimenti were able to reunite after a brief separation. This is a very normal relationship. Couples break up and sometimes get back together, a fan commented. I am glad you both found a way back to each other. As long as you are both happy, then nothing else matters.

Sanclimenti joined in on the fun when he left a red heart and side eye emoji in the comments, seemingly fuelling even more speculation that the two are back together.

The pair were rumoured to have rekindled the romance earlier this week, when the Italian entrepreneur shared solo photos of himself in Culculoglus ancestral country. In a recent video posted to his Instagram Story, Sanclimenti also teased fans when he shared a clip of him and Culculoglu walking on the beach in Turkey. Ive found someone I think I know, he wrote over the video, as Culculoglu appeared on camera in a black bikini.

To celebrate Culculoglus 29th birthday, Sanclimenti also shared a separate Instagram Story of the Love Island winner drinking a glass of champagne. He seemingly alluded to their recent breakup when he captioned the post: Despite all the storms, I wanted to make this day special for you... Enjoy the moment, make a wish and blow hard. Happy birthday, @ekinsuofficial.

The soap opera star later shared the same picture on her Instagram Stories, adding: Surprising me like always, thank you for a good birthday.

On 29 June, Sanclimenti announced that he and Culculoglu had broken up, just 10 months after they were declared winners of the popular ITV reality dating show in August 2022. 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, he wrote on his Instagram Story at the time. I would like for everybody to respect this decision during this difficult time, I will continue to support Ekin in any way possible.

Prior to their split, the two sparked engagement rumours when a video showed the Italian reality star gifting Culculoglu a 1,000 Cartier Love ring from a box and placing it on her engagement finger. However, Sanclimenti later denied speculation that the two were engaged during an appearance on Good Morning Britain, saying: I gave a ring because now we are officially together, we love each other, we live together... I thought she deserved something on her hands.
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Robert Downey Jr has celebrated his 18th wedding anniversary with his wife Susan Downey.

The Iron Man star posted two photos on Instagram commemorating their anniversary on Sunday. The first was a photo from their wedding day in 2005, and the other was a photo recreating it. In each of the photos, Downey is seen nuzzling his wifes cheek and Susan is smiling and holding a bouquet of flowers. In the modern-day iteration, shes holding sunflowers and Downey is wearing a T-shirt, but the couple looks just as happy with each other as the day they both said I do.

18 years, love still in bloom!! Downey wrote in his Instagram caption.

Many of their famous friends took to the comments section to extend their congratulations to the longtime couple, including some of Downeys Avengers co-stars. These are the best photos Robert! Love you both !!!! Hawkeye actor Jeremy Renner wrote, while Paul Bettany - who played Vision in the franchise - said: Lots of love dearhearts.

Will & Grace actor Sean Hayes commented on behalf of him and his husband: THE best. Scotty and I love you both as much as you love each other. Is that weird?

Downey and Susan share a production company, Team Downey, and two children together: daughter Avri, eight, and son Exton, 11. The actor also shares a son, Indio, 29, with his first wife Deborah Falconer.

The couple met on the set of the 2003 film Gothika, in which he starred opposite Halle Berry and Penelope Cruz. Silver Pictures was the production company producing the film, and Susan - then Susan Levin - was one of their producers. Shed been a producer with the company since 1999, working on movies like Thir13en, Ghosts and Swordfish. In a 2014 rare joint interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Susan told the outlet that initially she wasnt sure about dating one of the stars of a movie she was working on partially because he marched to the beat of his own drum.

At the time, the actor said his exit strategy from years of drug abuse was in the process, according to the outlet.

We were up in Montreal prepping for Gothika, and we had lunch with the director and Halle Berry, Susan recalled of the first time she encountered Downey. Everybody else ordered Japanese, but Robert told us how oatmeal was the superfood. He brought his own packets of oatmeal to have at lunch. And he had this box of various herbs and stuff. And then he started doing these yoga moves. I mean, he was interesting but weird.

Eventually, she gave in and after three months of dating, the Oppenheimer actor proposed to Susan, but she insisted on a long engagement and told him that if he wanted to be with her, he would have to give up drugs completely. Susan, who had a radically different upbringing in suburban Chicago as opposed to Downeys childhood mired in Hollywood excess, told the outlet that addiction was foreign to her. When she first began to date the actor, she said she was incredibly ignorant of the hold it had on people.

They married two years later, in 2005, and went on to become what director Guy Ritchie dubbed the most perfectly symbiotic marriage in Hollywood, according to The Hollywood Reporter.
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The royal familys show of public support for Prince Andrew, the Duke of York, does not mean he will return to formal public duties, it has been reported.

Prince Andrew joined his family over the weekend at the Balmoral Estate, where the King and Queen are continuing the late Queen Elizabeths summer tradition of holidaying in the Scottish Highlands.

The disgraced duke was spotted with the Prince and Princess of Wales as they drove together to the Crathie Kirk church near Balmoral Castle on Sunday (27 August). Meanwhile, Prince Edward, Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh, Princess Anne, and Vice Admiral Sir Timothy Laurence also rode together.

It has been reported that the duke has been invited join his family at Balmoral on the one-year anniversary of the late Queens death on 8 September, which is also King Charless accession day. Andrew was also reportedly invited by the King to join the summer trip to the Scottish residence, in what has been called an olive branch intended to thaw family tensions.

Sources told The Telegraph that no matter how unified the royal family may seem within their personal relationships, Prince Andrews public status will not change again.

The duke stepped down from royal duties in 2019 over his links to convicted paedophile Jeffrey Epstein. In January 2022, he was stripped of his HRH titles after he was accused of sexual assault by Virginia Giuffre, a victim of Epsteins. He has vehemently and continuously denied these claims.

Prince Andrew still attends public-facing family events and resides at Royal Lodge in Windsor with his ex-wife, the Duchess of York, despite attempts earlier in the year from the King to relocate the duke to the smaller Frogmore Cottage  the first UK residence of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex until recently.

One source told The Telegraph that the King is absolutely resolute that there can be no return to public duties for the disgraced duke. The source added that the King would not let his personal feelings for his brother affect Prince Andrews royal status.

Prince Andrew photographed in December 2022 (PA)

[The King] has always been clear that the duke is a much-loved member of the family, but that does not mean there will be a change in tack when it comes to his royal status, the source said.

Prince Andrews appearance at Balmoral follows ex-home secretary Dame Priti Patels apology to the King for causing embarrassment and difficulties after reportedly sending an email suggesting a review of the Duke of Yorks armed security.

According to reports, Andrew no longer has taxpayer-funded police protection after giving up his HRH style.

Dame Priti told the newspaper: It is disappointing that this correspondence has been leaked into the public domain and I apologise to His Majesty for the embarrassment and difficulties the publishing of this correspondence has caused.
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Australian Prime Anthony Albanese said on Tuesday he expects public support for creating a so-called Indigenous Voice to Parliament will grow after he focuses the nations minds on the issue by setting a date for Australias first referendum in a generation.

Albanese will announce on Wednesday a date for a referendum that would enshrine in the constitution an Indigenous Voice to Parliament, a collection of advocates aimed at giving the nations most disadvantaged ethnic minority more say on government policy.

Media speculation favors Oct. 14 as the most likely date for Australias first referendum since 1999.

Albanese has long maintained confidence that the referendum would succeed despite opinion polls showing marginal majority support for the Voice waning in recent months as the public debate has become more heated and divisive.

I think people will begin to focus more. I expect that many Australians wont focus until the last few weeks, Albanese told reporters. A majority of Australians will come to an answer that theres nothing to lose here, only upside.

The Australian Electoral Commission, which runs federal elections and referendums, on Tuesday said it had begun distributing 13 million pamphlets to households with arguments penned by lawmakers for and against the Voice. Australias population is 26 million.

Proponents hope the Voice will improve living standards for Indigenous Australians, who account for 3.8% of Australias population and are the nations most disadvantaged ethnic group.

Opponents argue that the constitutional change is either too radical or not radical enough.

If the referendum is passed, it would be Australias first since 1977 and the first ever to pass without bipartisan support.

The Voice was recommended in 2017 by a group of 250 Indigenous leaders who met at Uluru, a landmark sandstone rock in central Australia that is a sacred site to traditional owners. They were delegates of the First Nations National Constitutional Convention that the then-government had asked for advice on how the Indigenous population could be acknowledged in the constitution.

The conservative government immediately rejected the prospect of the Voice, which it likened to a third chamber of Parliament.

Albanese committed his center-left government to creating the Voice on election night in May last year. The opposition party is opposed.
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Sudans top miliary officer is traveling to Egypt on Tuesday on his first trip abroad since the country plunged into a bitter conflict this year, authorities said.

Gen. Abdel-Fattah Burhan, chairman of the ruling Sovereign Council, was expected to hold talks with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sissi on the latest developments in Sudan, the council said in a statement.

Sudan plunged into chaos in mid-April when simmering tensions between the military, led by Burhan, and the powerful paramilitary, Rapid Support Forces, commanded by Mohammed Hamdan Dagalo, exploded into open fighting in the capital, Khartoum, and elsewhere.

The conflict has reduced the capital to an urban battlefield, with the RSF controlling vast swaths of the city. The military command, where Burhan has purportedly been stationed since April, has been one of the epicenters of the conflict.

Burhan managed last week to leave the military headquarters, where he has been stationed since the breakout of the conflict. He visited military facilities in Khartoum's sister city of Omdurman and elsewhere in the country. Burhan traveled to Egypt from the coastal city of Port Sudan on the Red Sea.

Despite months of fighting, neither side has managed to gain control of the capital, Khartoum, or other key areas in the country. Last week, large explosions and plumes of black smoke could be seen above key areas of the capital, including near its airport.

Egypt has longstanding ties with the Sudanese army and its top generals. In July, el-Sissi hosted a meeting of Sudans neighbors and announced a plan for a ceasefire. A series of fragile truces, brokered by the U.S. and Saudi Arabia, have failed to hold.

The conflict has turned Khartoum and other urban areas into battlefields. Many residents live without water and electricity, and the countrys health care system has nearly collapsed.

The sprawling region of Darfur saw some of the worst bouts of violence in the conflict, and the fighting there has morphed into ethnic clashes with RSF and allied Arab militia targeting ethnic African communities.

Clashes also intensified earlier this month in the provinces of South Kordofan and West Kordofan.

The fighting is estimated to have killed at least 4,000 people, according to the U.N. human rights office, though activists and doctors on the ground say the death toll is likely far higher.

More than 4.6 million people have been displaced, according to the U.N. migration agency. Those include over 3.6 million who fled to safer areas inside Sudan, and more than 1 million others who crossed into neighboring countries.
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More than 70 wrongfully convicted people from across the country have expressed their support for Adnan Syed, whose protracted legal saga received widespread attention from the Serial podcast and has since pitted crime victims rights advocates against proponents of criminal justice reform.

In a brief filed Monday with Marylands highest court, the exonerees  who together have spent over 1220 years in prison for crimes they didnt commit  highlighted the devastating impacts of a flawed criminal justice system. They described looming hurdles they encountered upon release from prison, including barriers to employment, financial and housing insecurity, lost time with family, and severed social connections.

All exonerees and their loved ones are also victims, wrote attorneys with Georgetown Universitys Prisons and Justice Initiative, where Syed has worked since his release from prison last year. Adnan Syed should not be exposed to any further suffering by being denied the opportunity to move forward and live his life.

Recent court filings present dueling notions of the decades-old murder case as it continues crawling through the appeal process. The case is currently pending before the Maryland Supreme Court, which will consider whether a lower court violated the rights of Young Lee, whose sister Hae Min Lee was killed in 1999. Syed, her high school ex-boyfriend, was convicted of murder the following year and sentenced to life in prison. He remained behind bars until last September, when a judge vacated his conviction because Baltimore prosecutors found flaws in the evidence against him.

The Lee family appealed that decision, asserting the rights of crime victims and seeking a redo of the proceeding that won Syed his freedom after 23 years in prison. The Appellate Court of Maryland largely affirmed their arguments, reinstated Syeds conviction and called for a new vacatur hearing  a decision both parties have since appealed for different reasons.

The Maryland Supreme Court will consider their appeals during oral arguments Oct. 5.

Citing a state law that says victims must be treated with dignity and respect, attorneys for Young Lee claim he received insufficient notice about the vacatur hearing, which was scheduled on a Friday for the following Monday. He was unable to attend in person because he lives on the West Coast, though he was allowed to make a statement via video conference.

The court ran roughshod over these rights in the parties apparent zeal to free Mr. Syed unimpeded, Lees attorneys wrote in a brief filed Monday, part of the latest iterations of court papers as the case drags on.

In a supporting brief, lawyers with the National Crime Victim Law Institute cited blatant disregard for the victim in this case, though they also acknowledged the potential challenges of developing a legal definition of dignity.

Meanwhile, attorneys for Syed want the states highest court to reverse the appellate court decision that reinstated his conviction and ordered a redo of the vacatur hearing. Syed has remained free pending a resolution to the ongoing appeal proceedings, but he still faces the possibility of returning to prison in the future.

The terrifying specter of reincarceration has hung over Mr. Syeds head every day for the past ten months, his attorneys wrote in a recent appellate brief.

They argued the Lee family did receive sufficient notice about the hearing and, furthermore, that their appeal was rendered moot when prosecutors decided not to recharge Syed after his conviction was vacated last year. They also argued that even if Young Lees rights were violated, he hasnt demonstrated whether the alleged violation would have changed the outcome of the hearing.

Both parties appealed to the Maryland Supreme Court after the Appellate Court of Maryland mostly sided with the Lee family. In a 2-1 decision, the court found Young Lee received insufficient notice to attend the vacatur hearing in person. But the judges also said state law does not guarantee crime victims a right to be heard during the hearings  a decision that falls to the presiding judge. Allowing victims to present evidence or otherwise engage substantively would result in a huge shift in practice, the judges ruled.

Lees appeal asks the higher court to reconsider that piece of the ruling and to expand the role of victims during such proceedings. Experts say a shift toward victims rights could stymie reform efforts amid a growing movement within the American criminal justice system to acknowledge and correct past mistakes, including police misconduct and prosecutorial missteps.

In Syeds case, Baltimore prosecutors started reviewing his files under a Maryland law targeting so-called juvenile lifers because he was 17 when Hae Min Lee was found strangled to death and buried in a makeshift grave. Many states have passed similar laws in recent years since the U.S. Supreme Court prohibited mandatory life sentences for children convicted of serious crimes.

The prosecutors' review uncovered numerous problems, including alternative suspects and unreliable evidence presented at trial. Instead of reconsidering his sentence, prosecutors filed a motion to vacate Syeds conviction entirely.

If his conviction is again vacated once the appeal is resolved, prosecutors could still seek new charges and potentially retry the case.

___

Associated Press writer Brian Witte in Annapolis contributed to this report.
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NATO members Poland and the Baltic states will seal off their borders with Russias ally Belarus in the event of any military incidents or a massive migrant push by Minsk, the interior ministers warned Monday.

The ministers said they were seeing growing tensions on NATO's and the European Union's borders with Belarus, which has taken in thousands of Russia's military mercenaries and is pushing Middle East and African migrants into Europe, despite barriers having been put up.

They warned of swift and concerted reaction in the case of a military incident or large migrant push.

The ministers of Poland, Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia addressed the media following their talks. In a joint statement they demanded that the government of Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko immediately remove from its territory the Wagner Group mercenaries. They also demanded the removal of migrants from border areas and their return to their home countries.

The four countries, which are also European Union members, s upport Ukraine in its fight against Russias invasion.

The sudden death of mercenary leader Yevgeny Prigozhin in a plane crash in Russia last week has raised questions about the future of the Wagner group, which Poland's Interior Minister Mariusz Kaminski branded as extremely dangerous and demoralized. He also said the mercenaries pose a threat to the citizens of Belarus and the entire region.

Russia's President Vladimir Putin has ordered the Wagner fighters to sign an oath of allegiance to the Russian state, according to a decree published on the Kremlins website late Friday and effective immediately.

The ministers held talks about joint ways of reacting to the increasingly difficult situation on their borders with Belarus and Russia.
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Britains top diplomat, James Cleverly, is set to visit China on Wednesday, in the first trip by a U.K. foreign secretary to the country in more than five years.

A Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson confirmed the long-awaited trip on Tuesday.

The two sides will have in-depth communication on Sino-British relations and international and regional issues of common concern, spokesman Wang Wenbin said. We hope the British side will work with us to uphold the spirit of mutual respect, deepen exchanges, enhance mutual understanding and promote the stable development of Sino-British relations.

Cleverlys visit is an attempt to stabilize China-Britain ties, which have sunk to their lowest level in decades. The countries disagree over issues such as Beijings curbing of civil freedoms in Hong Kong, a former British colony, alleged human rights abuses in the Xinjiang region, Chinas support for Russia and Britains close security ties with the United States.

Cleverly said in June he would raise issues such as Xinjiang and Hong Kong with the Chinese government and request that Beijing lift sanctions on British parliamentarians.

In 2021, China sanctioned five British members of Parliament who are critical of Beijing. They are barred from entering mainland China, Hong Kong and Macau and from doing business with Chinese citizens.

Cleverly was initially scheduled to travel to Beijing in July, but his trip was postponed, and his then-counterpart, Qin Gang, was later replaced with veteran diplomat Wang Yi.

Besides highlighting human rights and security concerns, Cleverly is expected to explore potential areas of cooperation with China, such as climate change and trade.
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More must be done to make sure new mothers can have prompt access to antidepressants when needed, researchers have said after a study found extra benefits of an under-used drug.

Between 10 and 15% of women suffer postnatal depression in the first year after their child is born, but only 3% are prescribed selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressants, experts said.

Researchers from the Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience (IoPPN) at Kings College London with colleagues from the University of Oslo wanted to assess whether or not those who were prescribed these drugs for postnatal depression fared better than those who were not.

Their study, published in the journal Jama Open Network, analysed data on 61,000 mothers from Norway and their children.

Our study found no evidence suggesting that postnatal SSRI treatment conferred an increased risk for child development. In fact, we found that postnatal SSRI treatment reduced maternal depression and child behavioural difficulties that are associated with postnatal depression Dr Kate Liu, first author of the study

Some 8,671 mothers were deemed to have postnatal depression when their baby was six months old and 177 of these received postnatal SSRI treatment.

Maternal depression and child emotional and behavioural difficulties were measured when the child was aged one-and-a-half and again when they were three and five.

Experts found SSRI treatment for postnatal depression was linked to better outcomes when the child was five years old.

Children of mothers who used SSRIs to treat postnatal depression were less likely to have behavioural issues including conduct problems and antisocial behaviour when they were five, compared with children whose mothers had postnatal depression but were not given this treatment.

These children were less likely to have symptoms of ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder).

And mothers who took the SSRI treatment had a reduced risk of depression five years after giving birth.

Researchers said the findings suggest that SSRI treatment could provide mid to long-term benefits for women who suffer postnatal depression.

Postnatal depression is a common psychiatric disorder that affects 10 to 15% of women in the first year after childbirth, said Dr Kate Liu, research associate at Kings IoPPN and first author of the study.

Postnatal depression is under-recognised and undertreated Dr Tom McAdams, senior author of the study

In the UK however, only 3% of women with postnatal depression receive SSRI treatment.

This is likely due to a lack of awareness of postnatal depression, alongside concerns about the long-term impact that taking antidepressant medications in the postnatal period may have on child outcomes.

Our study found no evidence suggesting that postnatal SSRI treatment conferred an increased risk for child development. In fact, we found that postnatal SSRI treatment reduced maternal depression and child behavioural difficulties that are associated with postnatal depression.

Dr Tom McAdams, Wellcome Trust senior research fellow at Kings IoPPN and senior author of the study, said: Postnatal depression is under-recognised and undertreated.

Its critical that we view it as the severe mental illness that it is and ensure it is treated properly to mitigate some of the associated negative outcomes in mothers, children and wider family.

Our study found no evidence that SSRI treatment for mothers affected by postnatal depression was linked with an increased risk for childhood emotional difficulties, behavioural problems or motor and language delay.
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A Tory donor has been told to demolish all or part of his five-star hotel that hosted the signing of the Brexit deal after breaching planning regulations.

Runnymede Borough Council issued a planning enforcement notice for Surinder Aroras Fairmont Windsor Park Hotel last month.

Mr Arora has now been told to tear down all or part of the luxury hotel in Egham, Surrey, after an extra wing was installed and the building was extended without planning permission.

He has until October 7 to appeal against the enforcement notice.

The council said it was disappointed that these works were undertaken on the site without planning permission.

The Fairmont Windsor Park Hotel played host to the signing of the Windsor Framework in February, where Rishi Sunak and Ursula von der Leyen agreed on post-Brexit trading arrangements for Northern Ireland.

The Times reported that the council considered the hotel to have a harmful effect on the green belt.

In a statement, Mr Arora said: We are truly sorry for the mistakes made during the construction of the Fairmont Windsor Park.

It was a highly challenging construction site being developed in the middle of the Covid-19 pandemic.

We are now constructively engaging with Runnymede council and other local stakeholders to find mutually acceptable solutions to the planning concerns which have been raised.

The hotel is a fantastic property. We want to ensure it continues serving the local area and bringing significant economic benefits to Runnymede.

We remain extremely proud of it but also accept the need to remedy our mistakes.

It is understood there has been no appeal yet against the enforcement notice.

The council is currently not investigating claims of irreparable environmental harm on the site as it is yet to receive evidence to support such claims.

In its own statement, the council said: Runnymede Borough Council responded to an enforcement investigation request made on February 21 2023 that claimed that the Fairmont Hotel Windsor Park had been built incorrectly, with significant additions to the rear of the building meaning it was larger than the approved plans.

Following an enforcement investigation, a Planning Enforcement Notice was issued on July 7 2023 which requires the hotel to either be returned to the approved plans, or demolished.

There are also additional structures on the site that have been built without planning permission which are currently being considered in line with the councils enforcement charter.

It is understood that the developer is considering submitting a retrospective planning application to try to mitigate the impact upon the green belt caused by unauthorised construction works by knocking down other volume in the green belt.

We are truly sorry for the mistakes made during the construction of the Fairmont Windsor Park Surinder Arora, Founder and CEO of the Arora Group

If such an application were to be received, it would be considered in line with normal planning processes.

The statement continued: The developer also has the option to appeal to the Planning Inspectorate.

In completing an enforcement investigation and issuing a notice within four months of it being brought to the councils attention, the council has acted swiftly to address this breach of planning control.

The council is disappointed that these works were undertaken on the site without planning permission.

We would remind all developers of the importance of securing permission prior to undertaking works as any works without planning permission are entirely at the risk of the developer.
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James Cleverly will become the first UK Foreign Secretary in five years to visit Beijing on Wednesday.

Whats on the agenda and why is the visit controversial?

 Why is the Foreign Secretary visiting China?

The UK Government believes Chinas emergence as a major power poses an epoch-defining challenge to the international order in terms of global security and the values that underpin global relations.

Mr Cleverly believes that engagement with China is vital because its economic clout and influence means that no international challenge  such as climate change or the war in Ukraine  can be solved without it.

But he has promised to raise Chinas human rights abuses, the crackdown on dissent in Hong Kong and activity in the South China Sea and Taiwan Strait.

 Why has it been five years since the last visit by a UK Foreign Secretary?

Since Jeremy Hunts trip in 2018, the so-called golden era in the UK-China relationship has come to an end.

The UKs decision to ban Chinese tech giant Huawei from 5G networks over security concerns in 2020, Beijings sanctions on MPs and peers who had spoken out about human rights abuses in Xinjiang province and allegations of a Chinese agent targeting Parliament have all contributed to a frosty relationship.

The UKs intelligence agency MI6 is devoting more resources to China than any other country because of the scale of the challenge.

The Covid-19 pandemic, which originated in China, has also restricted opportunities for face-to-face talks.

 What will be on the agenda?

As well as global issues such as climate change and Ukraine, Mr Cleverly will want to highlight concerns about Chinas regional activity.

Beijing has rapidly expanded its navy and militarised islands in the South China Sea in an increasingly assertive stance in response to sovereignty disputes.

Mr Cleverly will also stress the need to dial down tensions with Taiwan, warning that conflict could disrupt global trade through the Taiwan Strait and have a potentially catastrophic economic effect in China and the rest of the world.

In his talks with counterpart Wang Yi the Foreign Secretary will also highlight issues where the UK has strong disagreements including the crackdown on democracy in Hong Kong, the sanctioning of British parliamentarians.

 What has China got to do with the war in Ukraine?

Xi Jinping is one of the few international leaders who may be able to influence Vladimir Putin and the UK hopes to persuade China to push for an end to the war.

Beijing has claimed to be neutral, but MI6 chief Sir Richard Moore said earlier this year that China had leant very heavily in support of Russia, providing diplomatic backing.

There is also widespread suspicion that dual-use equipment, which can be for both civilian and military purposes, is flowing from China to Russia to help maintain Mr Putins war effort.

Mr Cleverly is likely to stress that, as a permanent member of the UN Security Council, China has a responsibility to show its support for the UN Charter which is meant to protect a country from invasion.

 What do critics of Mr Cleverlys visit say?

The Tory benches contain a number of vocal China hawks, who want a tougher line from the Government.

Sir Iain Duncan Smith, the former Tory leader who is among the MPs and peers sanctioned by Beijing, said he had hoped Mr Cleverly would not visit China, accusing the Government of a weak approach he dubbed Project Kowtow.

But he said that as Mr Cleverly was going to Beijing, while there he must publicly call out the treatment of Uighur Muslims in Xinjiang as genocide  a label the UK has refused to use  speak out about the situation in Hong Kong and pro-democracy newspaper publisher Jimmy Lai and condemn China over its support for Russias invasion of Ukraine.

Sir Iain claimed the Governments current approach was reminiscent of the appeasement of Nazi Germany in the 1930s and had left the UK as the softest member of the Western alliance.

Amnesty International UKs chief executive Sacha Deshmukh said: Thousands of persecuted people in Hong Kong and mainland China will be watching this trip closely and expecting James Cleverly to speak up for them, negotiate for them, and on his return to the UK be able to say hes genuinely stood up for their rights.

 So what next?

If the talks between Mr Cleverly and Mr Wang are a success, a face-to-face meeting between Rishi Sunak and Xi Jinping could be the next stage in the diplomatic thaw.

The Prime Minister and the Chinese president are among leaders invited to the gathering of G20 nations in India in September.
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Two children who were at the centre of a parental court fight have left England and returned to Ireland after a judge concluded that their mother had plotted to abduct them in breach of their fathers custody rights.

Judge Dexter Dias has explained how the childrens mother had brought them to England from their home in Ireland without the knowledge or consent of their father.

The judge ordered their return after the man took legal action in London.

He concluded that the woman had acted in a deeply deceitful and manipulative fashion throughout  starting with an inexcusable plot to abduct the children by deception.

Judge Dias has outlined detail of the case in a written ruling published online after considering evidence at private hearings in the Family Division of the High Court  at the Royal Courts of Justice complex in London  earlier this summer.

He said the children had now returned to Ireland with the mother.

The judge, who has not identified the family involved, said the woman had failed in a bid to overturn his return order in the Court of Appeal.

He said the woman had brought the children to England in late 2022.

Their father had asked him to order their return to Ireland.

The judge said their mother had argued against a move back to Ireland and said they would be at grave risk of harm if returned.

Judge Dias rejected her arguments and ruled in favour of their father.

The mother has acted in a deeply deceitful and manipulative fashion throughout this case, starting with her inexcusable plot to abduct the children by deception, while enlisting them both in the dishonesty Judge Dexter Dias

They were brought by their mother without the knowledge or consent of their father, said Judge Dias.

The mother has acted in a deeply deceitful and manipulative fashion throughout this case, starting with her inexcusable plot to abduct the children by deception, while enlisting them both in the dishonesty.

He added: She has tried everything to ensure that the abducted children remain in the UK in serious breach of their fathers rights of custody.
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A police officer was sexually assaulted and six others were bitten at the final day of Notting Hill Carnival.

The Metropolitan Police Federation (MPF) have said 75 officers in total were assaulted at the festival, which took place on Sunday and Monday.

Six of those were bitten and one needed hospital treatment.

Once again Notting Hill Carnival marred by serious violence  and attacks on police officers, the MPF, a staff association representing officers in the capital, said in a statement.

This is absolutely disgusting no wonder our members dread policing this event.

The Metropolitan Police said that, while most people had an enjoyable experience at the carnival, Monday evening was marred by a spate of stabbings.

Two men were hospitalised after getting stabbed as the festival came to a close.

The force said a 29-year-old man was in critical condition in hospital following a stabbing in Warfield Road, just off Harrow Road, shortly after 9pm on Monday.

A 19-year-old man is in a serious but stable condition in hospital after he was stabbed in Ladbroke Grove shortly before 8pm.

Police said six other men, aged 18, 19, 20, 25, 28 and 40, sustained non-life-threatening injuries in separate stabbing incidents throughout Monday evening.

There were 275 arrests across the two days of the carnival, with 165 arrests on Monday for a range of offences, including possession of offensive weapons, assaults on police officers, possession of drugs and sexual offences.

Deputy assistant commissioner Ade Adelekan, who oversaw the policing operation, said: It is regrettable that for a second year in a row, Monday night at Carnival has been marred by serious violence.

Nobody disputes the significance of Carnival on Londons cultural calendar and the overwhelming majority of those who came will have had a positive experience.

File photo: Ade Adelekan speaks to London mayor Sadiq Khan (PA)

However, we cannot overlook the stabbings, sexual assaults and attacks on police officers that we have seen.

As we do following any major operation, we will be reviewing the events of the past two days and giving thorough consideration to what may need to change in future years.

He continued: It is important to recognise the positives that we can take away from the event. I am pleased that by working in close partnership with the event organisers and the stewarding teams, we were able to closely monitor crowd density and intervene in an effective way to prevent any incidents of crushing at peak times.

I would like to thank all the officers who have worked so hard over the weekend to keep people safe.

Carnival is a challenging policing environment. Officers were asked to be vigilant and alert but to be approachable, respectful and sensitive at the same time. They did all of that and more and they deserve our recognition and our thanks.

Earlier on Monday, colourfully-costumed revellers paraded through the streets of west London, marking the climax of the carnival.

A performer parades in costume on the final day of Notting Hill Carnival (Getty)

Thousands took part in an exuberant adult parade as part of the annual celebration of Caribbean culture and history.

People were partying atop floats followed by drummers and feathered mas bands dancing to the beat, while stilt walkers strutted around.

Celebrities including Lily Allen, Idris Elba and Nick Grimshaw were among those partying at this years carnival.

More than two million people were expected to attend the carnival, Europes biggest street party.
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The cause of death of a 10-year-old girl found dead at her home in Woking has not yet been established, an inquest into her death has been told.

Sara Sharifs body was found at a property in Hammond Road, Woking, after police were called from Pakistan by her father, Urfan Sharif, on August 10.

The precise cause of death is not yet ascertained but is likely to be unnatural, an inquest opening into her death at Surrey Coroners Court heard on Tuesday.

Police launched an international manhunt following the discovery of Sara's body. The three people who are wanted by the police are Sara's father, his partner Beinash Batool, 29, and his brother, Faisal Malik, 28.

The trio, along with their five other children, left the UK for Islamabad with one-way tickets the day before Saras body was found alone at the familys semi-detached home.

Coroner Simon Wickens confirmed Sara was born in Slough, Berkshire, on January 11 2013.

He then adjourned inquest proceedings until February 29 2024 to allow Surrey Police to carry out their investigations.

Mr Wickens offered his sincere condolences to all those touched by Saras short life.

A post-mortem examination previously found that Sara had suffered multiple and extensive injuries which were likely to have been caused over a sustained and extended period of time.

On Sunday, Saras grandfather urged his son to cooperate with the police.

Speaking to The Sunday Times, Sharifs father, Muhammad Sharif, 68, urged his son to come forward.

We want them to present themselves, he said. We want to resolve the matter as the privacy of our house is affected due to frequent police raids.

Urfan Sharif, left and Beinash Batool, right, are being sought by police

He said his son had briefly visited the family home in the city of Jhelum, Punjab province, earlier this month before he disappeared again, but said he did not tell him about Saras death.

Pakistani police are said to be tracking sim cards in a bid to locate the trio.

Nasir Bajwa, the police chief leading the case, said on Saturday: With Gods will we will make the arrest by tomorrow night.

The Rawalpindi region police chief, Syed Khurram Ali, added that the force was trying its level best and was close to locating the trio.

Earlier this week, Sharifs brother, Imran Sharif, claimed that Sara had died after falling down the stairs in an accident.

He reportedly told police officers: Beinash was home with the children. Sara fell down the stairs and broke her neck. Beinash panicked and phoned Urfan.

Surrey County Council confirmed that Sara had been known to the authorities and that a thorough review process was under way.

Jacquie Chambers, headteacher of St Marys C of E primary school in Byfleet  where Sara had been a Year 5 pupil  said she would be dearly missed by pupils and teachers.

In their latest appeal for information, Detective Superintendent Mark Chapman, from the Surrey and Sussex Police major crime team, said: It is now two weeks since Saras body was found and the impact of her tragic death continues to be felt deeply by the local and wider community, including our officers and staff.

We would like to thank those people who have already come forward and reported information to us.

However, we know that there will be lots of people in the Woking community and beyond who will have had contact with Sara who may not already have come forward, and we would encourage them to do so.

Any information is better than no information  although you might think its insignificant, it might be vital to the investigation and in helping us to bring justice for Sara.
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An educational trust has been fined 80,000 after 15 schoolchildren and their teacher were injured when their classroom ceiling collapsed during a lesson.

Tables and chairs being stored in the attic above fell on fifteen Year 3 pupils, aged between seven and eight, and their teacher when the ceiling fell in at Rosemead Preparatory School in Dulwich, London, on 15 November 2021.

The teacher and 12 pupils were taken to hospital where they were treated for fractures, cuts and concussion.

There were 16 pupils in the class but one student was by the doorway when the incident happened at the fee-paying prep school for children aged two-and-a-half to 11.

Thurlow Educational Trust in Dulwich was fined 80,000 for the incident and ordered to pay 7,116.31 in costs at Westminster Magistrates Court on Tuesday 29 August.

The Trust pleaded guilty to breaching Section 2(1) and Section 3(1) of the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974.

A Health and Safety Executive (HSE) investigation found items such as desks and chairs were stored in an unsuitable area in the schools attic, which was not designed to be load-bearing and led to the ceiling collapsing.

Chairs and desks stored in the attic above fell on the teacher and pupils during a lesson ( Health and Safety Executive )

The HSE investigation also found that Thurlow Educational Trust had failed to undertake any structural or load-bearing capability assessments of the area being used to store the items, and had failed to assess whether the area was appropriate to be used for the storage of the desks and chairs.

HSE inspector Samuel Brown said the mental and emotional impact of the incident on those injured should not be understated.

This incident has resulted in injuries to multiple young children due to the failings of the school to ensure that chairs and tables were safely stored above their classroom, Mr Brown said.

Schools should be a place where children can come to learn from teachers and one another without having to worry about their safety.

Fortunately, this incident did not cause any more serious injuries, but the mental and emotional impact of such an event should not be understated.

Employers need to take action to ensure that building stability and solidity problems are not caused through overloading areas not designed to bear weight. As proven, the failure to do so can have severe consequences.

Chair of the Thurlow Educational Trust Nick Crawford said: The events of 15th November 2021 will forever be marked as one of the most challenging in the schools history. We recognise how deeply distressing it was for those involved. On behalf of the school, we would like to express our sincere regret and apologies that the incident happened.

The health and safety of our pupils, staff and the wider school community is of paramount concern to us. The school has fully cooperated with the HSE investigation and taken significant steps since the incident to ensure that its health and safety arrangements are as robust as they can be.

In February, a coalition of seven unions warned Education Secretary Gillian Keegan that urgent action must be taken by the government to ensure deteriorating school buildings at risk of collapse are made safe.

In an open letter to Ms Keegan, the unions warned deteriorating school buildings could end up costing lives if the government does not take action to carry out repairs.

It came after a Department for Education (DfE) report acknowledged that some school buildings are at risk of collapse, a finding the teaching unions called shocking.
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A billionaire Tory donor has been told to tear down his five-star hotel where Rishi Sunak and Ursula von der Leyen signed the Brexit deal.

Surinder Aroras Fairmont Windsor Park Hotel hosted the PM and European Commission president for the signing of the Windsor Framework for Northern Ireland in February.

But the 64-year-old has been told to demolish all or part of the hotel after adding an extra wing and extending the building without planning permission.

The hotel tycoon, and Arora Group founder and chairman, has until October to appeal the decision by Runnymede Borough Council, according to reports.

The Fairmont Windsor Park Hotel also played host to an away day for Tory MPs hosted by Mr Sunak (PA)

The council found the development had a harmful effect on the green belt and, if disputed, an appeal could eventually end up with housing secretary Michael Gove, according to The Times .

Mr Arora was also denied planning permission for five luxury treehouses on a nearby site and may have to take them down.

The billionaire is a former baggage handler who started his business empire with four derelict houses near Heathrow.

Mr Arora converted the homes into bed-and-breakfast accommodation for British Airways cabin crew in 1993.

Today he has a portfolio of 16 hotels with more than 6,000 rooms, mostly near Heathrow and Gatwick, and a family net worth of 1.3bn, according to The 2023 Sunday Times Rich List.

The Indian-born businessman worked as a baggage handler and a wine waiter at the Heathrow Pena hotel  now the Renaissance Hotel, part of the Arora group.

Surinder Arora is a former baggage handler who started his business empire with four derelict houses near Heathrow (Getty)

His Fairmont Windsor Park Hotel also played host to a March away day for Tory MPs hosted by Mr Sunak.

The Conservatives booked the entire hotel for lectures, drinks receptions and a dinner with the PM, where MPs were able to eat Hereford beef, Atlantic cod and roast Scottish salmon.

That came after the 400+ a night hotel in Berkshire served as the backdrop for Mr Sunak and Ms von der Leyen to agree the Windsor Framework this year - a victory for the PM.

General manager Ryan Nicholls said at the time staff were delighted to be part of the historic occasion.

The five-star hotel is surrounded by 40 acres of green space and situated on the edge of Windsor Great Park, a royal park that spans 4,800 acres.

Aside from accommodation, facilities include an award-winning luxury spa and wellness centre, seven restaurants and bars, and event spaces.

Fairmont Windsor Park also has 15 meeting rooms, one of which served as the venue for the political meeting, and a ballroom that can cater for events of up to 700 guests.

Rishi Sunak greets Ursula Von Der Leyen at the Fairmont Windsor Park hotel (PA)

Dozens of residents made submissions over the hotel, while a report by a local residents association found a number of large additions to the hotel that did not appear to have planning permission, including an extra wing and two extensions.

It said that the hotel was around two-and-a-half metres taller than planned and that out of around 20 applications, there were none approved online that show these apparent additions to the hotel.

Through Arora Management Services Ltd, Mr Arora has previously donated 5,000 to the Conservatives in Runnymede and Weybridge, plus another 1,450 in sponsorship, according to The Telegraph.

Mr Arora said he is truly sorry for mistakes made during the construction of the Fairmont Windsor Park.

He said: It was a highly challenging construction site being developed in the middle of the Covid-19 pandemic.

The billionaire added that he is engaging with Runnymede Council and other local stakeholders to find mutually acceptable solutions.

Mr Arora said: The hotel is a fantastic property which we want to ensure it continues serving the local area and bringing significant economic benefits to Runnymede. We remain extremely proud of it but also accept the need to remedy our mistakes.

Runnymede Borough Council said it was disappointed that these works were undertaken on the site without planning permission.

In a statement, the council said: Runnymede Borough Council responded to an enforcement investigation request made on February 21 2023 that claimed that the Fairmont Hotel Windsor Park had been built incorrectly, with significant additions to the rear of the building meaning it was larger than the approved plans.

Following an enforcement investigation, a Planning Enforcement Notice was issued on July 7 2023 which requires the hotel to either be returned to the approved plans, or demolished.

The council said it would consider a retrospective planning application for the hotel.
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A police officer who was hit by a train while trying to save a distressed man on railway tracks has died, Nottinghamshire Police said.

Sergeant Graham Saville, 46, was deployed to a residential area in Balderton, Newark, over concerns for a mans safety just before 7pm on Thursday 24 August.

He suffered serious injuries after being struck by a train and died on Tuesday at Queens Medical Centre in Nottingham, with his family at his bedside.

Nottinghamshire Chief Constable Kate Meynell said today was a day of mourning for the entire police family, while Rishi Sunak said his death is a terrible reminder of the work police do every day to keep the public safe.

Chief Constable Meynell said: Graham was a hugely respected and popular colleague and his death in the line of duty has come as an enormous shock to us all.

Recommended Hero police officer fighting for life after being hit by train in Nottinghamshire

Our hearts and deepest condolences go out to his family and we will do everything we can to support them through this unimaginably devastating time.

Have you been affected by this incident? Email eleanor.noyce@independent.co.uk

It is impossible to put into words how devastating this news is for everyone who loved and respected Graham.

On Thursday, he went to work to protect the people of Nottinghamshire from harm, and it is testament to his bravery and dedication as a police officer that he was fatally injured while attempting to save another mans life.

His service and sacrifice will never be forgotten.

Chief Constable Meynell also paid tribute to officers who tried to save their colleague while waiting for the ambulance to arrive.

She said: This was a deeply traumatic incident for those officers and we have a dedicated team providing support to them.

When a colleague dies in the line of duty the shockwaves and sadness reverberate throughout the policing family and we will all deeply mourn our colleague.

The prime minister wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter: Im saddened to learn of the passing of Sergeant Saville. It is a testament to his bravery that he died in the line of duty and a terrible reminder of the work the police do every day to keep us safe.

Flags across the force will be flown at half-mast as a mark of respect. An investigation into the incident is being led by British Transport Police.

Head of the College of Policing, Chief Constable Andy Marsh, said Sergeant Savilles death was devastating news and his thoughts and condolences were with the brave officers family, friends and colleagues at this very sad time.

It is a tragic reminder of the risks and bravery shown every day by our police officers and staff to keep the public safe, he added.

The man Sergeant Saville was trying to help was also injured and taken to hospital on Thursday but it is not thought his injuries were not life-threatening.

Immigration minister and Newark MP Robert Jenrick, whose constituency includes Balderton, paid tribute to the exceptional bravery of Sergeant Saville.

Writing on X, Mr Jenrick said: Sergeant Graham Saville selflessly gave his life to save someone else. All of us in Newark salute his exceptional bravery and self-sacrifice, which wont be forgotten.

My thoughts are with his partner and children and all his colleagues at nottspolice.

Need to talk to someone? The Samaritans run a free 24-hour phone line on 116 123 for people experiencing a range of problems, and also has a website with further details.
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For Londoners living on the outskirts of the capital, Sadiq Khans Ulez policy is due to take effect on Tuesday despite fierce backlash.

First announced by former mayor Boris Johnson in July 2014 and expanded to all 32 of Londons boroughs by Mr Khan, the scheme aims to reduce air pollution by charging non-compliant vehicles 12.50 a day to drive within an ultra-low-emission zone.

But the zones growth has triggered city-wide protests, a shock by-election result, and the rise of a vigilante group vandalising Ulez cameras. Speaking ahead of the expansion, Mr Khan insisted he will be on the right of history when it comes to the policy  but for now, he stands accused of declaring war on motorists.

London mayor Sadiq Khan has become a target for the anti-Ulez movement (PA)

Launched within the central London congestion charge zone in 2019, the clean air policy means that cars and vans that dont meet certain emissions standards have had to pay a daily fee or risk a 180 fine.

Mr Khan has always argued that only a minority of vehicles will be affected by the charge, with a spokesperson for the mayors office saying only one in 10 cars driving in outer London isnt compliant  though this figure is disputed by critics. Separate figures obtained by the RAC show that more than 690,000 licensed cars in the whole of London are likely to be non-compliant, but this does not take into account other types of vehicle, or those that enter London from neighbouring counties.

TfL has allocated 160m of its budget for a scrappage scheme, which will pay out 2,000 to any Londoner wanting to scrap a non-compliant car and provide them with perks such as a free bus pass. This hasnt been enough to sway the most ardent critics, though.

Amid claims that the scheme is a cash grab from those that can least afford it, and that it is ill-timed during a cost of living crisis, Mr Khan this week claimed that the backlash had been weaponised by conspiracy theorists and Covid-19 deniers. But how true is that?

On Twitter at least, it is not usual to see people who criticise Ulez intersperse their attacks with anti-vaccine rhetoric, scepticism about climate change and the net zero plan to tackle it, and claims of state surveillance.

Some posts use the hashtag #Londonistan, a term used in racist and Islamophobic tweets and to attack Mr Khans track record since he became mayor in 2016. Earlier this year, a group of protesters outside a Peoples Question Time event in Ealing carried a placard associating Mr Khan with Nazis. The demonstrators use of the swastika was labelled disgusting by Labour MP David Lammy.

Piers Corbyn (right) joins a protest against the scheme in Tooting on Saturday (PA)

A number of ardent Ulez critics have compared the policy to the enforcement of social distancing and Covid vaccines, claiming there is no science to support such measures and that they constitute an attack on freedom.

One prominent Conservative commentator wrote on Twitter: When pandemic propaganda was at its peak it was: Get vaccinated to save granny. Now its: Pay ULEZ to save kids lungs.

Another said: Net Zero has become the new Zero Covid. Its not following the science. Its following the agendas. Crass logic and draconian policies like ULEZ, LTNs and 15 minute cities wont solve anything.

But it isnt just keyboard warriors who are raging against the plan.

Public opposition to Ulez has also led to the formation of an anonymous activist group called the Blade Runners, who have vowed to take down all of the schemes cameras. So far more than 380 have been targeted, with the Met Police reporting 185 destroyed cables, 164 stolen cameras, and 38 obscured. While the covert group has avoided creating social media accounts, one member interviewed by Mail Online claimed that the Blade Runners had more than 100 members involved in disabling the cameras.

Critics claim Londons air is not toxic at all, but just last month it was reported that all areas of the capital breach World Health Organisation guidelines (Reuters)

Opponents have warned that the vandalism will have an impact on the effectiveness of the expanded scheme when it comes into effect.

London mayoral candidate Howard Cox, of the Reform Party, warned that there would be administrative turmoil on Tuesday due to the broken cameras and a lack of signage.

If there are no signs, there must be no fines, he told The Independent. And if Sadiq Khan believes that 2,000 of taxpayers hard-earned dosh is a massive and generous incentive to dump a still perfectly good to use, fully MOTd vehicle, he is so out of touch with the cost of living reality that faces low-income drivers.

Away from the conspiracies, vigilantes, and climate-change sceptics, there are certainly drivers who are concerned about the impact the scheme will have on their wallets, at a time when people are least able to afford an extra bill.

Critics have argued that the policy is unfair, and that because the worst-polluting cars tend to be older, it is likely that the additional charge will fall on lower-income drivers who have been unable to replace their vehicles recently.

This map shows the expansion of the scheme, coming into effect on Tuesday (TFL)

Paul Tucker, a 52-year-old vehicle body fitter who travels from Northolt to work in High Wycombe each day, has owned his Peugeot 106 Rally for more than 15 years, and will now be forced to take out a loan to buy a new car.

He said: I feel targeted. Its just another money-making scheme, and if the mayor was serious hed issue a complete ban.

I need a car to get to work, and I cant afford one outright so Im going to have to take out a loan to buy one. Im going to be in debt because of Ulez. He added: A lot of people are going to suffer because of this scheme.

Then there are those who have compliant vehicles, but have had to battle to prove it.

Sadiq Khan, pictured with a Ulez camera, says the policy is the right one for London (Dominic Lipinski/PA Wire)

Paul Robins, a 60-year-old plumber, owns three vehicles that were initially classed as not Ulez-compliant. He managed to get the decisions overturned after providing TfL with certificates of conformity  but only after a process he branded a ridiculous fight.

The thing that really annoys me is it was so much of a fight. They reject [the compliancy application] for nonsensical reasons, he said, warning that the Ulez expansion could be the death of the modern classic car.

Its not just the public for whom the policy has proved divisive. It has also caused tension among Labour ranks  especially after the Uxbridge and South Ruislip by-election earlier this summer.

The Conservatives narrowly held on to the seat by campaigning against the expansion, as Sir Keir Starmer urged the mayor to reflect on how the policy had cost the Labour Party the constituency.

Signs like these will become a more common sight in London from Tuesday (PA Wire)

Speaking to journalists at the time, Sir Keir refused to defend the Ulez scheme and said: Ulez was the reason we didnt win there yesterday. We know that. We heard that on the door[step].

The newly elected MP for Uxbridge, Steve Tuckwell, told The Independent that the by-election result was a clear message to Mr Khan to halt your Ulez expansion.

But Mr Khan has remained defiant. I am quite clear, in relation to the evidence I have seen, that the consequences of air pollution are heartbreaking when you have spent time with a bereaved mum, he said. We have been trying to make sure we can both tackle air pollution, tackle the climate emergency, but help support Londoners during this transition.

The vast majority of Londoners want to see clean air, and I recognise there are some Londoners with genuine concerns. My job is to try and address those concerns, and I have been doing that.
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Scotlands alcohol and drugs policy minister Elena Whitham has said a controversial advertising ban shelved earlier this year is not off the table.

First Minister Humza Yousaf said in his first major speech in the job earlier this year that the Government would go back to the drawing board on the issue, which could have seen alcohol obscured in shops.

Retailers and producers were angered by the proposals before they were shelved.

Speaking as figures showed 1,276 people  the highest figures since 2008  died in 2022 from alcohol related deaths, Ms Whitham said there were still 3,000 responses to the cancelled consultation to be analysed.

Whilst we are back to the drawing board  that doesnt mean that its cancelled and its not going anywhere, she said on Tuesday.

It just means that were going to have a slightly different focus on it, but my focus on it is absolutely from a public health perspective.

Asked if Scotland could still be subject to a ban on alcohol advertising, Ms Whitham said: We dont know what thats going to look like.

I think we have to look and see what the evaluation of the responses tells us and then make a move from there.

But, clearly, as a public health minister, my focus is on that from a public health lens.

Mr Yousaf, the minister said, reiterated his commitment to tackling alcohol harms in a meeting with stakeholders.

(He) was quite frank in his statements with regards to marketing that we need to make sure that we reduce the harm to young people and that sometimes marketing can drive that.
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Foreign Secretary James Cleverly will visit China on Wednesday as part of efforts to ease tensions between the West and Beijing.

He will hold talks with Chinas foreign affairs minister Wang Yi and vice president Han Zheng.

The UK believes that engagement with Xi Jinpings administration is essential given its important economic and political influence around the world.

Mr Cleverly has promised he will raise concerns over human rights and the treatment of Hong Kong during his trip.

And he will argue that with Chinas global significance comes a responsibility on international security  helping to end Vladimir Putins invasion of Ukraine, calming tensions in the South China Sea and ceasing malign activity in cyberspace.

Mr Cleverly said: It is important we manage our relationship with China across a range of issues.

No significant global problem  from climate change to pandemic prevention, from economic instability to nuclear proliferation  can be solved without China.

Chinas size, history and global significance means they cannot be ignored, but that comes with a responsibility on the global stage.

That responsibility means China fulfilling its international commitments and obligations.

Mr Cleverly follows in the footsteps of US counterpart Antony Blinken, who visited Beijing in June, and his trip will be the first by a UK foreign secretary since 2018.

But the visit will be closely watched by China hawks on the Conservative benches, who have grave security concerns about Beijings increasing power and accused the Government of an approach resembling the appeasement of Nazi Germany.

Mr Cleverly said he would discuss Chinas posture in the region, the sanctions imposed by Beijing on MPs and peers who have spoken out about Mr Xis administration, and the failure to abide by the agreements over Hong Kong.

The problem with our position right now is it smells terribly of appeasement Sir Iain Duncan Smith

A successful trip could potentially pave the way for talks between Rishi Sunak and Mr Xi, with both leaders invited to attend the G20 summit in India in September.

Mr Cleverlys visit was condemned as a mistake by former Tory leader Sir Iain Duncan Smith, who said it was the latest stage of Project Kowtow.

Sir Iain, one of the MPs hit by Chinese sanctions, told the PA news agency: The problem with our position right now is it smells terribly of appeasement.

Its like we want more business, therefore we dont want to upset the Chinese too much.

The problem we have got with that is its redolent of the 1930s where we just thought Just be nice to these people and complain occasionally but dont do anything.

The result is, what we end up with is that they think we are just too weak.

He claimed the UK looked like the soft underbelly of the Western alliance to China which Beijing was seeking to exploit through business links and its security apparatus.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin said: The two sides will have in-depth communication on Sino-British relations and international and regional issues of common concern.

We hope the British side will work with us to uphold the spirit of mutual respect, deepen exchanges, enhance mutual understanding and promote the stable development of Sino-British relations.
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A frustrated and tired Scottish drama student was left stranded in Amsterdam Airport overnight when an air traffic control glitch saw his flight cancelled, forcing him to sleep there.

Matthew Creed, a 26-year-old drama student from Harthill, became stuck at Schiphol Amsterdam Airport after his flight with KLM Royal Dutch Airlines to Edinburgh was cancelled.

Tens of thousands more airline passengers suffered flight cancellations on Tuesday due to the knock-on impact of an ATC fault.

Analysis of flight data websites by the PA news agency shows at least 281 flights  including departures and arrivals  were cancelled on Tuesday at the UKs six busiest airports.

The former drama teacher, who worked in Hong Kong for three years, was initially flying from the former British city to Edinburgh with a stopover in Doha on Qatar Airways  he planned to see his family in Scotland before beginning his masters degree in drama in London.

When he arrived in Hong Kong, Qatar Airways informed him that his ticket was on standby.

Upon arrival in Doha, he was notified that he did not have a seat on the flight to Edinburgh, which was nerve-racking for him.

Qatar then transferred him on a KLM flight to Amsterdam  he arrived at 3am on Monday only to discover the Dutch airliner had cancelled his next flight to Edinburgh.

(I) got to Amsterdam about three oclock yesterday, waiting for the next flight about 4.50am, and then realised there was a massive queue in the middle of the airport, he told the PA news agency.

People were heading towards the exit or towards desks for KLM, who were operating the flight that Qatar had put me on.

Then I looked at the board and realised my flight was cancelled.

KLM booked him a new flight to Edinburgh departing at 9.50pm on Tuesday, however, he had to spend the night at Amsterdam Airport waiting for the flight.

Mr Creed explained it was not ideal sleeping on a folding bed with pillows and blankets in the airport.

He said: They were helping people for a long amount of time, there were long queues, and there were only four or five agents trying to help people.

Then they just kind of said were closing all of their desks and everybody needs to find their own accommodation or find out their own way to sort things out.

We heard that there was a gate at the end of the airport where they were putting out pillows and blankets and things, so thats where we had to sleep last night which wasnt ideal.

Mr Creed paid for access to KLMs Crown Lounges at Amsterdam Airport in order to have a shower and eat some food, with the hope of being reimbursed for the cost.

The 26-year-old was informed by KLM the next morning that it had booked a hotel for him.

He said: I was told, actually, we had a hotel booked for you last night, why didnt you stay there?

I said, nobody has emailed me and let me know I wasnt able to speak to someone because all the desks were closed.

So I stayed in the airport for no reason.

Another disrupted passenger, Michael McDonnell, a 28-year-old consultant from London, became stranded in Berlin with his partner Sarah, 28, for three nights after their British Airways flight was cancelled.

The consultant was meant to fly to Heathrow Airport from Berlin Brandenburg Airport at 9.20am on Monday before his flight was cancelled.

He said he received very little communication from the British airliner before being notified that he and his partner had been rebooked on a flight leaving on August 31, stranding them for three nights.

They told us we need to give them a call to change and rebook our flight online, but we couldnt get access online because the website wasnt working, Mr McDonnell told PA.

We couldnt call them as their line was too busy and then it would hang up.

We did end up getting through to someone and we got rebooked onto the next flight on Thursday morning.

The couple returned to the city centre of Berlin and rebooked at a hotel they had previously visited for their bank holiday weekend.

He explained: They (British Airways) didnt pay for the hotel, we paid for it.

We paid 150 per night for the hotel.

In a statement, British Airways said: Like other airlines operating in the UK, we are continuing to experience the knock-on effects of yesterdays NATS Air Traffic Control issue, which includes unavoidable delays and cancellations.

Customers travelling today or tomorrow on short-haul services can move their flight to a later date free of charge if they wish, subject to availability.

Weve apologised for the huge inconvenience caused, which was outside of our control and thank our customers for their patience as we work hard to get back on track.

PA has contacted Qatar Airways and KLM Royal Dutch Airlines for comment.
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A recruitment crisis in the childcare sector threatens Jeremy Hunts pledge to expand free provision boost the workforce, as new figures show the scale of the struggles across England.

The chancellor announced a 4bn expansion of free childcare for all preschool children from 2025 at the Budget  arguing that preventing parents from working was damaging to our economy.

But every single English region is struggling to recruit childcare workers, according to new analysis by the Trade Union Congress (TUC) using Coram Family and Childcare survey data.

Nearly all (95 per cent) of English councils said childcare providers in their area are having difficulty recruiting childcare workers with the skills and experience to do the job  and eight in 10 (80 per cent) of local authorities describe it as very difficult.

The analysis suggests that childcare recruitment crisis is most acute in the east of England, the west Midlands and the north east  where 100% of councils said providers found it very difficult to get sufficient staff.

The TUC said low pay was holding back the push to expand childcare  calling on Mr Hunt to stop ignoring the Cinderella sector and bring in a 15 an hour minimum wage for staff.

The chancellors March budget encouraged non-working mothers to rejoin the workforce during the cost of living crisis, allowing some families of children as young as nine months in England to claim 30 hours of free childcare a week.

But MPs on the education select committee warned in July that the expansion of state-funded childcare will not work unless more is done to address stagnant funding and the recruitment crisis hitting the profession.

While Mr Hunts funding package will almost double government spending on early childhood education care by 2025, the committee said that the sector still faced a severe recruitment challenge and many providers had been forced to shut down.

Chancellor Jeremy Hunt announced big expansion of childcare at Budget (PA Wire)

The latest Coram survey shows that almost half (48 per cent) of Englands local authorities say that some or many providers have had to cut staff numbers. Some 44 per cent per cent say that some or many providers have cut opening hours.

Union leaders says that both the childcare sector faces a staffing crisis stemming from endemic low pay and insecure work, which hits their predominantly female workforces hard.

More than three in five (62 per cent) childcare assistants and practitioners earn less than the real living wage of just 10.90 an hour, according to new TUC analysis. At 18,4000, childcare practitioners earn only 56 per cent of the median salary for all employees.

Childcare and social care must stop being Cinderella sectors, said the TUC general secretary Paul Nowak. Demand for care is rising. Caring is skilled work, and the overwhelmingly female workforce deserves decent pay and conditions.

He added: Ministers must urgently introduce a 15 an hour minimum wage for childcare and social care workers. And ministers should require employers to end the use of zero-hours contracts and pay decent sick pay to all workers.

Megan Jarvie, head of Coram Family and Childcare, said it is really concerning that we are seeing struggles to recruit right across the country. She added: Action is needed to support the workforce to make sure that every child is able to access high quality early education and childcare.

Unison general secretary Christina McAnea said: Raising pay, improving training and providing a proper career path are essential to end the recruitment crisis, and make sure people get the care they need and deserve.

A government spokesperson said it was rolling out the single biggest investment in childcare in England ever, with 204m for nurseries this year and 288m next year, which can be used to fund staff salaries, training and wider costs.

They added: We are also launching a new national campaign to support the recruitment and retention of talented staff and looking to introduce a new accelerated apprenticeship routes so everyone from junior staff to senior leaders can easily move into a career in the sector.
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Environmental campaigners hit out at Rishi Sunaks government after it confirmed that EU-era restrictions that force housebuilders to mitigate the impact of new developments on rivers will be scrapped.

Levelling up secretary Michael Gove defended plans to scrap clunky EU-era environmental protections on nutrient neutrality  hailing it as a Brexit benefit to boost housing.

Mr Gove said it was a myth that water quality in British rivers has deteriorated under the Conservative government, saying they all cleaner than they have been in the past.

The government has argued that housing developments contribute only a small fraction of nutrient pollution and new funding is being provided to mitigate any associated increase.

But environmental campaigners accused the government of going back on its word and suggested the change would allow developers to cut corners, branding it a disgraceful move.

Speaking on a visit to a new-build housing estate near Norwich, Mr Sunak told broadcasters that the boost to housebuilding would be fantastic for young, first-time buyers.

Current nutrient neutrality rules prevent developers from building houses in protected areas when it would add harmful substances like nitrogen and phosphorus into nearby rivers and lakes, because such nutrients can cause algal blooms that deprive other plants and animals of light and oxygen.

Under legislation derived from the EU, Natural England currently issues guidance to 62 local authority areas, requiring new developments to be nutrient neutral in their area. This requirement will now be watered down to become guidance.

Changes will see the financial burden to mitigate nutrient pollution for new housing shifted from developers to taxpayers  with the government promising to double investment in the nutrient mitigation scheme run by Natural England, to 280m. A further 166m will be allocated for slurry infrastructure grants.

Government facing bcklash from anti-sewage protesters (PA)

The changes are being proposed via an amendment to the Levelling Up and Regeneration Bill which is currently going through the House of Lords, with the government claiming it could see additional homes being built in a matter of months.

Mr Gove said: The way EU rules have been applied has held us back. These changes will provide a multibillion-pound boost for the UK economy and see us build more than 100,000 new homes.

But Greenpeace UK policy director Dr Doug Parr said: Who would look at our sickly, sewage-infested rivers and conclude that what they need is weaker pollution rules? No one.

They added: Instead of allowing house builders to cut corners, the Sunak administration should make sure we have the right infrastructure to handle our sewage so we can build new homes without sacrificing our rivers health.

And chief executive of the Wildlife Trusts, Craig Bennett, said ministers had broken promises to not lower environmental protections or standards.

He said: Just a few weeks later they are planning to do precisely the opposite. They lied  this is a disgraceful move which undermines public trust in this government.

Feargal Sharkey said the plan was a complete and utter shambles (PA)

Clean rivers campaigner Feargal Sharkey has described the governments scrapping of pollution rules as a complete and utter shambles and that the environment has now been left to fend for itself.

Speaking to BBCs World at One, he said: This morning the last vestiges of any pretence that this government is in any way actually interested in the environment has now just been shredded. In the words of Zac Goldsmith  this government actually isnt really interested in the environment.

Its a widespread myth that somehow the quality of our water has deteriorated, Mr Gove also told Times Radio. Of course, our rivers arent as clean as they should be, but they all cleaner than they have been in the past.

Conservative former environment secretary Theresa Villiers said she welcomed the plan, as did Tory former housing secretary Simon Clarke.

Mr Clarke said on X, formerly known as Twitter, This is NOT an attack on nature. New homes arent the problem  its poor management by our water companies and (to some extent) farming practices.

Shares in housebuilders rose sharply on the London market at the prospect of strict planning rules being eased. Charles Church builder Persimmon saw its stock jump more than 4 per cent on the FTSE 100 Index, with Barratt Developments up 3 per cent and Taylor Wimpey nearly 3 per cent higher.

Executive chair of the Home Builders Federation Stewart Baseley welcomed the move to unlock new housing. The industry is eager to play its part in delivering mitigation and protecting our waterways.

He added: We look forward to engaging with government on the right way to do so, now that ministers are acting upon the arguments that builders both large and small have been making for so long.
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The chaotic first day of London mayor Sadiq Khans ultra-low emission zone (Ulez) scheme expansion saw furious protests outside No 10 and traffic cameras smashed or vandalised with spray paint.

The Crown Prince of Kuwait had his trip to meet Rishi Sunak partially disrupted by opponents of the charge on motorists using high-polluting vehicles, who staged an angry demonstration outside Downing Street.

Police were forced to restrain some anti-Ulez activists as tempers flared in scuffles on Whitehall. Some campaigners chanted get Khan out and held up mocked-up car registration plates bearing the slogan.

More than a dozen cameras across Bromley, south London, were vandalised as the expansion came into force on Tuesday. Some were spray-painted red, while others were smashed or had their wires cut. Only two of 16 cameras on one stretch of the A224 escaped untouched.

Anti-Ulez vigilantes labelled Blade Runners have been damaging cameras wires in recent weeks, but it is not known if they were responsible for the latest attacks.

Mr Khan remained defiant despite the backlash  arguing that expanding the 12.50 daily fee for high-polluting vehicles to outer London boroughs was difficult but vital to save lives.

But the plan was hit by an early snag when the Transport for London (TfL) website where drivers can check if they have to pay the charge crashed. Motorists were told on Tuesday morning that the site was experiencing technical difficulties.

Protesters outside No 10 carried placards saying Stop the Toxic Air Lie and Ulez all about money. Dozens of activists lined the road leading to Downing Street in the centre of the capital, blowing whistles and banging drums.

Husband and wife Tom and Carolyn Dare were among the crowd of protesters. Ms Dare said she wanted Mr Sunak to overrule Sadiq Khan, adding: He has got the power.

Police officers restrain an anti-Ulez protester outside Downing Street (PA)

On Tuesday, London became the worlds largest pollution charging area after Ulez was expanded to the whole of the capital. People who drive in the zone in a vehicle that does not meet minimum emissions standards are now required to pay a 12.50 daily fee or risk a 180 fine.

Mr Khan clashed with transport secretary Mark Harper  accusing the Tory minister of spreading factual errors about the initiative.

The Tories continue to hammer both Mr Khan and Labour more widely on the introduction of the scheme, widely reckoned to have cost Labour the recent by-election in Boris Johnsons old seat of Uxbridge.

Asked on the BBC Radio 4s Today programme if he had thought about it costing Labour the general election, Mr Khan said: It was a difficult decision. I accept Ulez was a factor in Uxbridge and Ruislip, [but] there was a lot of misinformation in relation to that seat.

Camera spray-painted red in Bromley, south London (SWNS)

Mr Harper accused the Labour mayor of a cash grab. Its not about air pollution, its about a money-raising exercise, he told GB News. And this is absolutely not the time to be putting all those costs on hard-pressed and hard-working Londoners and those in the area outside London.

Asked if he would put an end to the expansion if he had the power to do so, Mr Harper said: Yes  I dont have the power, though.

Rejecting some of Mr Harpers factual errors, Mr Khan told BBC Breakfast: If this was about making money, Id have acceded to the demand from the government to expand the congestion charge much wider than it currently is. That would have been a cash grab, but I said No.

Speaking on Times Radio, the Labour mayor also ruled out a pay-per-mile charging scheme while he is in office, adding: Its not on the agenda, its not on the table.

Mr Khan did say that it was no secret that the government, transport officials in London and around the country, have been looking at for some time... a smarter, streamlined service for a variety of reasons.

He added: In fact, Boris Johnson, when he was the mayor of London  remember him?  in his transport strategy there was talk about a pay-per-mile scheme. When Rishi Sunak was chancellor, he asked his Treasury officials to look into these schemes. Theres no secrecy around this.

Sadiq Khan with Rosamund Adoo-Kissi-Debrah, whose daughter Ella died from a fatal asthma attack (PA)

Mr Harper explained on LBCs Nick Ferrari programme that the government will be backing an amendment to the Levelling-Up and Regeneration Bill in a bid to prevent road charging.

Under the amendment, brought forward by Tory peer Lord Moylan, London boroughs would be able to opt out of future TfL clean air schemes if they are meeting air quality targets.

Despite the Tories moves to pounce upon anger over Ulez, Stanley Johnson warned Mr Sunak that opposing the scheme is a betrayal and is not going to help the party win the next general election.

I think the Tories are seriously barking up the wrong tree if they think that attacking Ulez is going to be the secret to success of the next election, Boris Johnsons father told GB News.

Mr Khan is at odds with Sir Keir Starmer over Ulez, after the Labour leader backtracked on support and urged the mayor to reflect on its expansion.

But Mr Sunak hit out at both Sir Keir and Mr Khan on Tuesday, saying the scheme was going to hit working families. The prime minister added: I dont think thats the right priority, I dont think thats the right thing to do and I wish they hadnt done it.

So far, more than 380 Ulez cameras have been targeted during a wave of anger against the anti-pollution scheme, with the Metropolitan Police reporting 185 destroyed cables and 164 stolen cameras.
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London mayor Sadiq Khan has refused to say whether the unpopularity of his Ulez charges could cost Labour the next general election.

Mr Khan was defiant about todays expansion of the ultra-low emission zone (Ulez) to outer London  arguing that the 12.50 daily fee for high polluting drivers was difficult but vital.

The Labour mayor also clashed with transport secretary Mark Harper  accusing the Tory minister of spreading factual errors of the scheme aimed at cutting air pollution.

The Tories continue to hammer Mr Khan and Labour on the introduction of the scheme, widely reckoned to have cost Labour the recent byelection in Boris Johnsons old seat of Uxbridge.

Asked on the BBC Radio 4s Today programme if he had thought about it costing Labour the general election, Mr Khan did not answer, saying only that Londoners want to see cleaner air in our city.

He added: It was a difficult decision. I accept Ulez was a factor in Uxbridge and Ruislip, [but] there was a lot of misinformation in relation to that seat  Ill carry on listening to Londoners to ameliorate any concerns.

On Tuesday, London became the worlds largest pollution charging area after Ulez was expanded to include the whole of the capital. People who drive in the zone in a vehicle that does not meet minimum emissions standards are now required to pay a 12.50 daily fee or risk a 180 fine.

Mr Khan has faced strong opposition to the scheme, although a 160m scheme run by Transport for London (TfL) enables residents, small businesses, sole traders and charities scrapping non-compliant cars to claim grants.

Stanley Johnson has warned has warned Rishi Sunak that opposing Ulez is a betrayal and is not going to help the party win the next general election. I think the Tories are seriously barking up the wrong tree if they think that attacking ULEZ is going to be the secret to success of the next election, Boris Johnsons father told GB News.

Sadiq Khan is under pressure over the Ulez expansion (PA Wire)

It would be really, really crazy for the Conservatives to say, Okay for electoral gain we are going to dump quite a lot of our environmental policies, including this, he said, adding that the Tories will be betraying themselves, betraying their own environmental record if they dump it.

Mr Harper accused the Labour mayor of a cash grab. Its not about air pollution, its about a money-raising exercise, he told GB News. And this is absolutely not the time to be putting all those costs on hard-pressed and hard-working Londoners and those in the area outside London.

Asked if he would put an end to the expansion if he had the power to do so, Mr Harper said: Yes, I dont have the power, though.

Rejecting some of Mr Harpers claims, Mr Khan told BBC Breakfast: I just bumped into Mark Harper as he was leaving the studio and I think he made a couple of factual errors.

He added: If this was about making money, Id have acceded to the demand from the government to expand the congestion charge much wider than it currently is. That would have been a cash grab, but I said No.

If it was a cash grab  as the government is saying  just to raise money, Id have acceded to their demand to expand the Ulez without proper consultation and a proper scrappage scheme. This is about helping our air be cleaner.

Augusts Ulez expansion has seen angry protests (PA)

Speaking on Times Radio, the Labour mayor also ruled out a pay-per-mile scheme while he is in office, adding: Its not on the agenda, its not on the table.

Mr Khan did say that it was no secret that the government, transport officials in London and around the country, have been looking at for some time, in relation to a smarter, streamlined service for a variety of reasons.

He added: In fact, Boris Johnson, when he was the mayor of London  remember him?  in his transport strategy there was talk about a pay-per-mile scheme. When Rishi Sunak was chancellor he asked his Treasury officials to look into these schemes. Theres no secrecy around this.

Keir Starmer and London mayor Sadiq Khan at odds over Ulez (PA)

Mr Khan is at odds with Sir Keir Starmer over Ulez, and the Labour leader backtracked on support and urged the mayor to reflect on its expansion. On Monday frontbencher Justin Madders urged Mr Khan to listen to cost of living concerns, saying it was an expense too many for drivers.

But Rishi Sunak hit out at both Sir Keir and Mr Khan on Tuesday, saying the scheme was going to hit working families. The PM added: I dont think thats the right priority, I dont think thats the right thing to do and I wish they hadnt done it.

Mr Harper explained on LBCs Nick Ferrari programme that the government will be backing an amendment to the Levelling-Up and Regeneration Bill to make changes to the 1999 law in a bid to prevent road charging.

Under the amendment, brought forward by Tory peer Lord Moylan, London boroughs would be able to opt out of future Transport for London (TfL) clean air schemes if they are meeting air quality targets.

The transport secretary said: We are backing an amendment, a backbench amendment to a piece of legislation which will mean in future any road user charging schemes like this would have to be also backed by London boroughs.

And thats important because if you look at the mayor of Londons own website for his Project 2030 scheme, he wants to roll out more road user charging schemes, pay-per-mile schemes across London.
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A retired chief superintendent has told the Sheku Bayoh Inquiry that police withholding death information from Mr Bayohs partner was not the right thing to do.

Retired chief superintendent Garry McEwan oversaw Fifes police force at the time of Mr Bayohs death on May 3 2015.

The 31-year-old, father-of-two died after he was restrained on the ground by six police officers in Kirkcaldy, Fife.

The inquiry is investigating the circumstances of his death and whether race was a factor.

My immediate reaction was that, that was not the right thing to do Garry McEwan, former chief superintendent

On Tuesday, senior counsel to the inquiry, Angela Grahame KC, said previous officers said they had been advised not to tell Mr Bayohs partner, Collette Bell, about anything to do with police contact following his death until further investigation had taken place.

Asked for his thoughts on this decision, Mr McEwan said: Its difficult because I dont know the full circumstances of the investigation at that point.

My immediate reaction was that, that was not the right thing to do.

But I dont know. There may have been other discussions in the background in the investigations strand.

He added: If I was there that day, I would have said, Why not? Why wouldnt we?'

The retired superintendent mentioned his fears surrounding community tensions as a result of Mr Bayohs death after coming into contact with police.

He added: Actually, its less about the community tensions.

Its more about treating Collette Bell as I would want my partner to be treated in similar circumstances.

The 52-year-old continued: I dont know if by telling Collette Bell something, (that) would have compromised the investigation.

There is nothing thats obvious to me, but that wasnt my area of responsibility.

Mr McEwan advised that Mr Bayohs death was the first time he had ever declared a critical incident in his  at the time  25 years of policing.

A critical incident is the most serious of incidents declared by police.

The Police Investigations and Review Commissioner (Pirc) was drafted in to help with the investigation.

Mr McEwan said he wasnt overly impressed by their initial inaction with the family members of Mr Bayoh, adding that family liaison officers (FLOs) were not sent out by Police Scotland or Pirc.

Mr McEwan decided to visit the family himself alongside another high-ranking officer to speak to the family himself.

Ms Bell alleged that Mr McEwan had shrugged his shoulders after asking if her partner had been beaten to death by police, though the retired superintendent said he did not remember doing so, and if he had, it would not have been out of malice.

She also criticised his conduct while at the property and said he had told them something he shouldnt be telling them at the time.

Mr McEwan denied he told Mr Bayohs family this.

He added: I genuinely went to that house to try and provide the family with some information that they hadnt had before, and I felt that it was the right thing to do.

And Im genuinely sorry if it didnt come across that way.

Kadi Johnson, sister of Mr Bayoh, had alleged Mr McEwan told her that her brother was seen carrying a machete or large knife before his death.

He said he does not remember using the word machete, but admitted it is a possibility.

Asked if the word machete has any racially-motivated connotations, he said no.

Connie Barcik, a former partner of Mr Bayoh with whom he has a child, had told the inquiry she was not informed by police of his death and instead learned of it on Facebook.

Mr McEwan said the family members affected absolutely deserved better treatment in how they approached them regarding Mr Bayohs death.

The inquiry, which is being heard at Capital House, Edinburgh, before Lord Bracadale, was adjourned until tomorrow morning at 10am.
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College support staff are to take strike action next week in a dispute over pay, terms, and conditions.

Unison said more than 2,000 members in colleges across Scotland will walk out on Thursday September 7.

The national strike day will be followed by a rolling programme of dates for localised action in colleges across the country.

The union claimed that although college employers have increased their offer from 2% to a 3,500 flat-rate payment over two years, this comes with a real threat of compulsory redundancies of support staff.

Effectively members are being asked to pay for their own pay rise with their job, during a cost-of-living crisis Chris Greenshields, Unison

Those walking out next week will include librarians, IT specialists, technicians, administrative and business support staff, cleaners, canteen workers and estate management staff.

Members voted by 93% in April to strike on a turnout of 62%.

Unison further education branch secretary Chris Greenshields said: College staff were due this pay increase a year ago. Its unacceptable, even by the standards of the college sector, to take this long to agree a pay deal.

The employers idea of a resolution to the crisis is to threaten our members with compulsory redundancy.

Effectively members are being asked to pay for their own pay rise with their job, during a cost-of-living crisis.

We need the same guarantee that has been given to the rest of the public sector that there will be no compulsory redundancies.

Unison has appealed to the Scottish government to help us find a solution  employers must extend the no compulsory redundancy guarantee to college staff. Colleges are publicly funded but the Government refuses to intervene.

The minister seems willing to allow the strikes to proceed rather than ensure staff get a decent pay rise.

We hope Unison calls off these damaging strikes so colleges can continue to provide the world-class learning experience that students rightly expect and deserve Gavin Donoghue, College Employers Scotland,

Colleges where Unison has a mandate to take strike action are: City of Glasgow College, Edinburgh College, Fife College, Glasgow Clyde College, West College Scotland, North East Scotland College, Glasgow Kelvin College and Ayrshire College.

It also has a mandate for action at Dundee & Angus College, New College Lanarkshire, UHI Argyll, UHI Moray, UHI Perth, UHI Inverness, Borders College, Dumfries & Galloway College, South Lanarkshire College, West Lothian College, Forth Valley College, Newbattle Abbey College.

Gavin Donoghue, director of College Employers Scotland, said: It is disappointing that Unison has announced national strike action. Colleges will now seek to put in place measures to mitigate the effects of any proposed action on their students education.

College Employers Scotland provided a full and final pay offer to all support staff trade unions (Unison, Unite and GMB) in June for a cumulative 3,500 pay rise.

Employers have requested support staff unions take this pay offer to their members for a formal ballot, as it would equate to an average 11% pay increase, and an average increase of 14% for those paid under 25,000.

Employers have also committed to managing organisational change through voluntary measures in accordance with the Fair Work agenda. Any compulsory measures would only be used as a last resort when all other measures have been considered.

We hope Unison calls off these damaging strikes so colleges can continue to provide the world-class learning experience that students rightly expect and deserve.
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More than 100 people were arrested for attending a gay wedding in Nigeria under the countrys draconian homosexuality laws.

Police stormed a hotel in Ekpan town, Delta state, southern Nigeria, at around 2am on Monday and arrested more than 100 gay suspects.

At least sixty-seven people have been detained.

Two of those detained in the arrests, one of the countrys largest targeting homosexuality, got married at the event, Delta State Command spokesman Bright Edafe told a press conference.

He said homosexuality would never be tolerated in Nigeria, Africas most populous country with some 230 million inhabitants.

"The amazing part of it was that we saw two suspects, and there is a video recording where they were performing their wedding ceremony," he said.

"We are in Africa and we are in Nigeria. We cannot copy the Western world because we dont have the same culture."

He reiterated that police officers in Nigeria "cannot fold their hands" and watch gay people openly express their orientation in the country.

"This is not something that will be allowed in Nigeria," he said, adding that the suspects will be charged in court at the end of the investigation.

Arrests of gay people are common in the West African country, where the Same Sex Marriage Prohibition Act prohibits same sex relationships.

The law means that anyone belonging to a gay organisation can get up to 10 years in jail, and anyone married to someone of the same sex can get up to 14 years.

The law, enacted by president Goodluck Jonathan in 2013, has been condemned by several Western countries.

Then US secretary of state John Kerry said it "dangerously restricts freedom" of expression and association of all Nigerians.

Britain and Canada also criticised the law, which was introduced with little announcement or fanfare

The UK Foreign Office said the law infringes upon fundamental rights of expression and association.

Immediately after the act was introduced reports emerged of police hunting down and torturing gay people.

Campaigners also alleged that gay men were tortured into naming dozens of others to be arrested.

Mr Jonathan, who was ousted from office in Nigerias 2015 election, never publicly expressed his views on homosexuality.

But his spokesperson defended it, saying the law was in line with the peoples cultural and religious inclination.

A religious country, just over half of the population in Nigeria is Muslim while around 46 per cent are Christian, according to the CIA World Factbook.

Some 33 of the 69 countries that criminalise same-sex relations are in Africa, according to Human Rights Watch.

Although the examples are few, there has been some progress over the last year on the protection of LGBT rights in Africa.

In November 2021, the Botswana Court of Appeal upheld a lower court decision to decriminalise consensual same-sex conduct.
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A 20-year old in Uganda has become the first person in the country to be prosecuted for aggravated homosexuality, an offence punishable by death under the countrys draconian new anti-gay legislation, the mans lawyer has said.

Passed in May this year, the law introduces the death penalty in cases of so-called aggravated homosexuality, a term the government uses to describe actions including having gay sex when HIV-positive or having intercourse with a minor or an elderly person, or a person with a disability.

It also prescribes life in prison for same-sex intercourse.

The suspect was charged on 18 August, with the charges saying he performed unlawful sexual intercourse with a 41-year-old man. It was not specified why the act was considered aggravated.

Since it is a capital offence triable by the High Court, the charge was read out and explained to him in the Magistrates Court on [the] 18th and he was remanded, Jacquelyn Okui, spokesperson for the office of the director of public prosecutions, told Reuters.

Ms Okui said she was not aware of any other people being charged with aggravated homosexuality.

Justine Balya, an attorney for the defendant, said four other people have been charged under the law since its enactment and that her client was the first to be prosecuted for aggravated homosexuality. She declined to comment on the specifics of his case.

Ms Balya said she believed the entire law was unconstitutional. The law has been challenged in court, but the judges have not yet taken up the case.

Earlier last week, Ugandan police arrested four people for allegedly engaging in same-sex activity, reported news agency AFP. They were held after the police received a tip-off from a female informant in the local area.

The legislation, introduced three months ago, has been widely condemned by the UN, foreign governments including that of the US, and global rights groups such as Amnesty International.

Earlier this month, the World Bank announced it was suspending new loans for the country after concluding that the anti-LGBT+ law contradicts its values.

No new public financing to Uganda will be presented to our board of executive directors until the efficacy of the additional measures has been tested, it said in a statement, adding that such measures were now under discussion with Ugandan authorities.

Ugandas Anti-Homosexuality Act fundamentally contradicts the World Bank Groups values. We believe our vision to eradicate poverty on a liveable planet can only succeed if it includes everyone irrespective of race, gender, or sexuality, it said.

Additional reporting by agencies
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An enormous alligator caught by four friends in Mississippi on Saturday has broken the states records for the longest and heaviest ever snared.

The scaly beast hauled from the Yazoo River by Don Woods, Tanner White, Will Thomas and Joey Clark measured 14 feet three inches in length, according to the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks (MDWFP), whose Alligator Program co-ordinator Andrew Arnett made the official measurement.

It weighed a whopping 802.5 pounds and boasted a belly girth of 66 inches, the MDWFP said on Facebook.

That comfortably beats the old record set by a Mississippi gator measuring a mere 14 feet 0.5 inches and weighing just 766.5 pounds.

Recounting the epic tale to The Mississippi Clarion-Ledger, Mr Woods explained that he and his companions were experienced hunters who had nevertheless fought with the monster for seven hours straight before finally landing it in their boat, losing plenty of equipment overboard during the tustle.

We got on the water right at dark, he began, setting the mood.

We were seeing a lot of alligators. It was a calm night. We saw a lot of eight-footers, ten-footers, but thats not what we were after. Weve been hunting these things a long time. Weve killed a lot of 12-footers.

Having spotted their target when its humongous back crested the surface, Mr Woods said the group managed to get a hook into it around 9pm, after which: We held onto him a while  until 10pm or so. He broke my rod at that point. We hooked him eight or nine times and he kept breaking off.

He would go down, sit and then take off. He kept going under logs. He knew what he was doing. The crazy thing is he stayed in that same spot. There was no moving him. We couldnt do anything with him.

Relishing the details of the titanic struggle, as any self-respecting fisherman should, Mr Woods said of the next few hours: He dictated everything we did. It was exhausting, but your adrenaline is going so you dont notice it. It was more mentally exhausting than anything because he kept getting off.

As for whats next, Mr Woods told The Clarion-Ledger: Were done with chasing big ones this year. I might even call it a career after that, honestly.

The southern state has opened its rivers to alligator sport hunting every year from 25 August to 4 September since 2005.

Facebook users reacting to the story have typically expressed horror at the sheer size of the nightmare material reptile, attempted to place pre-orders for handbags and boots, or disapproved of the animal being harvested for sport.

But one person, apparently completely nonplussed by the record-breaking river beast or its welfare, instead saw an opportunity to hit on the hunters, writing: I like the guy on the far left with the light colored pants and the rubber boots on. Hello handsome!
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He just came in and started shooting without saying a word.

Thats what two shell-shocked survivors of the King Soopers supermarket mass shooting in Boulder, Colorado, told reporters on 22 March 2021 in the immediate aftermath of Americas latest outburst of deadly gun violence, which had just left another 10 people dead.

The pair were as stunned by the eerie calm with which the alleged shooter, Ahmad Al Aliwi Alissa  then just 21  carried out the massacre as they were by the scale of the atrocity or their own good fortune in having escaped unharmed.

And they were not alone in noticing the killers chillingly methodical approach as he roamed the aisles, clad all in black and bearing a Ruger AR-556 pistol, equipped to function like a rifle with a longer-than-usual barrel, and a 9mm semi-automatic handgun.

Another eyewitness told the media the gunman had let off a couple of shots, then was silent, and then he let off a couple more. He wasnt spraying.

The accused himself sustained a gunshot wound to the upper right thigh when he was apprehended by police officers and had to be treated in hospital before being booked and taken to the county jail.

He was swiftly charged with first-degree murder and one count of attempted murder, which would subsequently be added to considerably as further felony charges were piled on over the next two months, leaving Alissa facing life in prison without hope of parole, the state having abolished the death penalty just one year earlier.

However, he would subsequently be moved from prison to a state mental hospital after a prosecution expert found he was approaching catatonia behind bars, with four psychologists diagnosing him with schizophrenia.

He was duly ruled mentally incompetent to stand trial on 3 December 2021 and again on 15 April 2022, leading many in the community to fear he might never be held accountable for his crimes in a court of law.

But on 23 August, after months of treatment and evaluations, Alissa, now 23, was found to have been restored to competency thanks to the efforts of his carers, meaning he can now appear before a judge.

Alissa had been born in Raqqa, Syria, in 1999 but became a naturalised American citizen when his family moved to the United States in 2002, eventually settling in Arvada, Colorado, not far from Boulder, in 2014.

However, Alissas high school years appear to have been unhappy ones, with his older brother Ali Aliwi Alissa subsequently saying he had been bullied by classmates and describing him as very anti-social and paranoid.

Ahmad Al Aliwi Alissa (EPA)

When he was having lunch with my sister in a restaurant, he said, People are in the parking lot, they are looking for me, Ali recalled in an interview with The Daily Beast. She went out, and there was no one. We didnt know what was going on in his head.

He added that his siblings actions were not at all a political statement, its mental illness. The guy used to get bullied a lot in high school, he was like an outgoing kid but after he went to high school and got bullied a lot, he started becoming anti-social.

None of which prepared anyone for what unfolded at the Boulder discount supermarket at 2.30pm on that chilly Monday afternoon in the pandemic spring of March 2021  the states worst massacre since Columbine in 1999 and Aurora in 2012  as shoppers gathered to buy groceries or receive Covid vaccine shots at its pharmacy.

The gunman appeared in the car park of the store on 3600 Table Mesa Drive and quickly opened fire on anyone in his path, with the store employees who called 911 telling dispatchers, according to an affidavit, that they had observed the suspect shoot an elderly man in the parking lot. The suspect then walked up to the elderly man, stood over him and shot him multiple additional times.

The killer then entered the store and began his rampage in earnest, sending the approximately 115 people inside fleeing for the emergency exits in blind panic, some sheltering behind garbage cans in a Starbucks kiosk, in cabinets underneath deli counters or in stock rooms, desperate to remain unseen.

Tributes hang on the temporary fence surrounding the parking lot in front of King Soopers in April 2021 (AP)

Manager Darcey Lopez would later tell The Loveland Reporter-Herald she believed her own death was inevitable as she listened to the gunfire: I was ready to go. It was like ba-ba-ba-ba-ba-ba. Ba-ba-ba-ba. It stopped, and we thought he was done. And then he started shooting again.

The Boulder Police Department had meanwhile assembled a massive response outside the store, featuring armoured vehicles, ambulances, helicopters and drones overhead and a SWAT team ready to go and had urged the killer to surrender via sound system.

He finally did so, emerging with his hands up, stripped down to his shorts, and was handcuffed and led outside at 3.28pm, exactly 58 minutes after the attack had commenced, asking to see his mother.

The shooters motives have never been established but his victims were ultimately found to be: Denny Stong, 20; Neven Stanisic, 23; Rikki Olds, 25; Tralona Bartkowiak, 49; Teri Leiker, 51; Eric Talley, 51; Suzanne Fountain, 59; Kevin Mahoney, 61; Lynn Murray, 62; and Jody Waters, 65.

Stong, Olds and Leiker were Kings Soopers employees, Stanisic a repairman on the job while Talley was a police officer who had run towards the gunfire in a bid to intervene, becoming the first cop to be killed in the line of duty in Colorado since 1994.

The rest were customers.

All had simply been trying to go about their days.
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The family of four found dead in an apparently murder-suicide inside an apartment on New Yorks Upper West Side have been identified.

The bodies of Edison Lopez, Aleksandra Witek and their children Calvin, one, and Lucian, three, were found at the home on West 86th Street on Monday afternoon.

The grim discovery was made by Edison Lopezs father, Mario Lopez, who is the buildings former superintendent.

He told the New York Times that he went to check the apartment after his son, the current super, failed to drop the children off for babysitting that morning.

Upon drilling the door lock out of the cylinder, he said he could see his daughter-in-law Witek on the floor with blood already all over her.

Police then arrived to find Witek, 40, and her children in the hallway with fatal stab wounds, including to the throat.

Edison Lopez was found on a bed in another room with a fatal slash to the throat.

Authorities believe the 41-year-old father killed his family before himself.

Speaking to the Times on Tuesday, Mario Lopez said he was still reeling from the shock and did not believe his son could be responsible.

How would you feel if you found your two grandchildren and your son and your daughter-in-law laying there? he asked.

Police said there were no warning signs of domestic violence.

The investigation is still ongoing.

A GoFundMe in memory of Witek and her sons has raised over $51,000 as of Wednesday morning.
 Close Rachel Morin: Maryland police release CCTV of suspect

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Rachel Morins family are pleading for information that leads to an arrest more than a month after her body was found on the Ma & Pa Trail after she failed to return home from an evening hike.

Authorities in Harford County, Maryland, continue to hunt for Morins killer amid fears that the suspect could strike again.

Police previously released footage from the scene of a home invasion and assault in Los Angeles, where DNA found matched DNA at the Morin crime scene.

But despite the developments, investigators have yet to make any arrests in the case.

Morins brother Michael Morin told NewsNation on Wednesday that his family was hopeful somebody would provide the key piece of information needed to bring the suspect to justice.

We only need one lead. We need a last name, we already have DNA and video, Mr Morin said.

Last week, Morins sister Rebekah Morin shared a behavioural profile built by a volunteer criminal profiler.

It suggested that the killer has psychopathic traits and may have travelled to Bel Air because he knew someone in the tight-knit community.
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A married woman falsely claimed she was sexually assaulted in order to access free STD testing after having an affair.

Renee Skoglund, 30, will spend two years on community control and eight years on probation after striking a plea deal with Tampa prosecutors. During her sentencing hearing last week, prosecutors said Skoglund travelled from South Dakota to Hillsborough County, Florida to cheat on her spouse, FOX13 reports.

The one-night stand on 8 March reportedly made Skoglund fearful that she could have caught a sexually transmitted disease. Looking to get free testing, Skoglund then made up an elaborate story about being raped on an interstate while she pulled over to check her car.

I was just raped, like 45 minutes ago, a tearful Skoglund told 911 operators, also claiming that her supposed rapist had put a towel on her head, tied her hands and feet with a rope, and forced her into the backseat of her vehicle.

Authorities noticed several inconsistencies in Skoglunds story after reviewing her cell phone. They also found surveillance video of Skoglund buying a rope at a Walmart that she later claimed was used during the rape.

She later reportedly confessed to making up her rape allegations and was charged with making a false police report.

Skoglund, 30, confessed to making up her rape allegations and was charged with making a false police report (HCSO)

She had consensual sexual intercourse with an individual in Hillsborough County, prosecutor Jessica Couvertier told the court during Fridays sentencing. Then she felt guilty about it because of her marital status, and she wanted to get checked out for a sexually transmitted disease.

In addition to probation, Skoglund must also pay $17,245 to the Hillsborough County Sheriffs Office.

Skoglund told police her supposed rapist had used a rope to tie her hands and feet. Authorities later found surveillance froma Walmart that showed her buying the rope (HCSO)

This case is truly disheartening, Sheriff Chad Chronister said in a May press release. There are far too many victims faced with this type of trauma. This woman took advantage of our 911 emergency line and diverted attention from actual victims who need the viable resources available in these investigative scenarios.
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A graduate student at the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill has been charged with first-degree murder over the on-campus shooting that left one faculty member dead.

Tailei Qi, a second-year PhD student majoring in applied physical sciences, has been charged with the fatal shooting of his academic advisor, Zijie Yan. Mr Qi is facing charges of first-degree murder and carrying a weapon while on campus.

The suspect appeared in court on Tuesday and had an interpreter explain to him what happened in the courtroom in Mandarin, the Associated Press reports. He was ordered held without bond and his next court hearing was scheduled for 18 September.

A motive was not immediately clear. Chancellor Kevin M Guskiewicz said in a statement on Tuesday that he has met with the family of the slain assistant professors family.

My leadership team and I have met with his colleagues and family to express our condolences on behalf of our campus, the statement read. Please join me in thinking and praying for his family and loved ones during this difficult time.

According to his LinkedIn page, Mr Qi graduated from Wuhan University in 2015 and also received a masters in material science from Lousiana State University in 2021.

Mr Qi then joined UNC at Chapel Hills Yan Lab in 2022, with his profile page on the universitys website taken down by Tuesday morning.

The suspect worked as a researcher in China before pursuing a doctoral career in America.

UNC graduate student Aiden Scott, a former classmate of Mr Qi, described him as very quiet but nice.

I would have never guessed that he would be the kind of person who could possibly be capable of this kind of thing, Mr Scott told WRAL. Every single time he would talk to me, he seemed very nice... when I saw his face in the reports online, I was beyond shocked,

UNC at Chapel Hill doctoral student Tailei Qi is charged with the murder of a faculty member (Orange County Jail)

A Twitter account believed to belong to Mr Qi reveals that he had railed against his work and his head of lab as well as what he described as bullies in the US before allegedly carrying out the shooting.

In a post on 1 August 2022, he wrote: Bully in [A]merica seems to be a problem. It often comes with people not stopping them at the first time.

Explanation is not a solution but makes them feel others will plead them every time they raise a problem, making them voyeur to find an excuse day and night.

UNC police had issued an alert about an active shooting situation at the campus shortly after 1pm on Monday, following reports of shots being fired in the science building.

Students were ordered to shelter in place and barricade themselves inside lecture halls amid the active situation.

Law enforcement and first responders gather on South Street near the Bell Tower on the University of North Carolina (Copyright, The News & Observer)

UNC Chapel Hill students jump from windows during a campus shooting in which one member of faculty was killed (Screenshot / WRAL)

Footage shared online shows desperate students and faculty members jumping from windows or hunkering down in classrooms as the UNC Police, FBI, ATF and SWAT teams canvassed the campus for the shooter.

Nearly an hour and a half into the ordeal, UNC police released a photo of a person of interest and asked the public to call 911 and proceed with caution if they spotted the individual. A name was not released but the photo released by authorities matched the one on Mr Qis UNC profile page.

Mr Qi was then arrested near a residential area two miles from campus on Williams Circle and the shelter-in-place order was lifted at around 4.30pm.

At a press conference later that evening, UNC Chancellor Kevin Guskiewicz and UNC Police Chief Brian James confirmed one faculty member had been killed.

The weapon used in the shooting was a 9mm, police said on Tuesday. An investigation into the circumstances and motive behind the shooting is ongoing.

Im grieved to report that one of our faculty members was killed in this shooting. This loss is devastating, and the shooting damages the trust and safety that we so often take for granted in our campus community, Mr Guskiewicz said.

Mr Qi is being held by the Orange County Sheriffs Office in Hillsborough County.
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Tailei Qi shared several cryptic posts online after joining the University of North Carolina in 2022.

The well-educated graduate student  who previously studied at both Wuhan University and Louisiana State University  complained about bullies, aired his grievances with some girls and tattletales and grumbled about his head of lab.

Bully in america seems to be a problem. It often comes with people not stopping them at the first time, he wrote in one post in August 2022.

But  despite the complaints  the messages could not prepare anyone for the horror of what happened next.

On the afternoon of Monday 28 August 2023  just days into the new term of the second year of his PhD studies  Mr Qi allegedly entered the science lab at the UNCs Chapel Hill campus armed with a firearm.

Inside the lab where he carried out his studies, police said he shot and killed Dr Zijie Yan  believed to be the very same lead faculty member that he railed against online.

The campus was then plunged into lockdown before Mr Qi was arrested at a home just 10 minutes from the lab around three hours later.

The motive for the attack remains unknown at this time.

To actually have the suspect in custody gives us an opportunity to figure out the why and even the how, and also helps us to uncover a motive and really just why this happened today. Why today, why at all? UNC Police Chief Brian James said in a press conference on Monday.

And we want to learn from this incident and we will certainly work to do our best to ensure that this never happens again on the UNC campus.

The suspect

The suspect was identified on Tuesday as Tailei Qi, a graduate student who joined the Yan Lab of the college in 2022.

Based on his online bio at the UNC, he studied under Dr Zijie Yan  the leader of the physical chemistry group the Yan Research Group and head of the Department of Applied Physical Sciences.

Before joining UNC, Mr Qi previously studied material science at Louisiana State University and physics at Wuhan University.

Tailei Qi is a graduate student who joined the Yan Lab of the college in 2022 (Orange County Jail)

A Twitter account believed to belong to Mr Qi reveals that he had railed against his work and his head of lab as well as what he described as bullies in the US before allegedly carrying out the shooting.

In a post on 1 August 2022, he wrote: Bully in america seems to be a problem. It often comes with people not stopping them at the first time.

Explanation is not a solution but makes them feel others will plead them every time they raise a problem, making them voyeur to find an excuse day and night.

Two weeks later on 18 August 2022, he tweeted about his PI  referring to his unnamed head of lab  handling these girls and tattletales.

Just have a talk with my PI and get his promise. He should have more experience to handle with these girls and tattletales, he wrote.

Then, we can just get ourselves out of these stupid topic. Lets just focus our attention on nature.I wont change anything if not necessary.

Two months later in October, he referred to his PI again and an unidentified group of people.

Both the group of people to say I am lazy and that to prove me working hard instead of telling me that are trying to consume my privacy. I judge their motivation is only to tell my PI then control me by taletelling, he tweeted.

But its weird when I talked about it with my PI, he said no people spoke to him about that. so its nothing but some voyeurism for these people?

Tailei Qis social media posts revealed (UNC)

While he didnt identify the PI by name, Yan headed up the Department of Applied Physical Sciences and physical chemistry group the Yan Research Group  which Mr Qi joined when he began his graduate program at UNC in 2022.

In other posts, Mr Qi addressed a mystery woman who he vowed to just let her go and his exhaustion with his workload.

I used to walk 80+ hours per week and I feel relaxing and energetic. Now I only work 60+ hours per week and I feel tired, he wrote in one.

In a post in July 2022  before he is believed to have started at UNC that fall  he posted a cryptic message calling his treatment by an unnamed boss disgusting.

Just feel my privacy was insulted. When I work, I will think I was showing the boss I am working instead of interests, devaluing the meaning of my work, he wrote.

Thats so disgusting. Self-respect block me from working. Then it takes pains to convince myself what I do is just because I like.

In another post that same month, he wrote that only work with no play makes Jim a dull boy.

Tailei Qi posted online about grievances with bullies, his PI and girls (X/Tailei Qi)

The Twitter account has the same name and the same image as both Mr Qis bio and the person of interest sent out by police during the brief manhunt.

It describes him as Graduate student @UNC, engaged in light-matter interaction and related materials.

In one post in early August  just weeks before the shooting  he issued an appeal to meet people at the college.

I would like to make some new friends. I am a second-year PhD student, interested in nanoparticle synthesis, optical trapping, self-assembly, spectra analysis, and ML, he said. a bit stupid in daily trifles, very enthusiastic talking about research. Reach me if inerest.

The shooting

The shooting unfolded at around 1pm local time on Monday when UNC Police responded to a 911 call reporting gunfire at the science lab in the heart of the campus.

Law enforcement arrived on the scene around two minutes after the call came in and found Yan shot dead inside the science lab building.

The campus was plunged into lockdown, with officials warning that an armed and dangerous person was at large.

The wrong person was briefly arrested after the unsuspecting individual missed the shelter-in-place alerts.

Soon after, the UNC Police released an image of Mr Qi, calling him a person of interest and warning the public that if you see this person, keep your distance, put your safety first and call 911.

Law enforcement respond to the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill campus (AP)

Chilling footage shows terrified students and staff members barricaded inside classrooms and offices for fear that an active shooter was at large.

Around three hours on from the shooting, police confirmed that a suspect had been arrested near a residential area 10 minutes away from campus.

The gun is yet to be recovered, police said.

The lockdown was eventually lifted at around 4.15pm.

The victims identity is yet to be released, pending next of kin being notified.

UNC-Chapel Hill Chancellor Kevin M Guskiewicz said in a statement that a hotline and other mental health resources were on offer for staff and students affected by the shooting.

The students are certainly traumatised, he said.

But I want to commend those who were inside the building ensuring everyones safety.

Classes have been canceled through Tuesday following the deadly shooting.

UNC faculty member dead after shooting on Chapel Hill campus

Due to todays incident on campus, UNC-Chapel Hill will operate at a Condition 2 on Tuesday, Aug. 29. This means that classes are canceled, and non-mandatory operations are suspended, the UNC said in an update.

The shooting came just days into the start of the new term.

Harrowingly, the horror was a somewhat familiar sight for the UNC community coming four years after a mass shooting at the Charlotte campus.

Back on 30 April 2019  on the last day of the spring semester classes  two people were killed and four injured in a mass shooting inside a classroom in the Woodford A. Kennedy Building.

The gunman  identified as former UNCC student Trystan Andrew Terrell  was arrested soon after.

In September 2019, he pleaded guilty and was sentenced life without the possibility of parole.
 Close University on lockdown over active shooting situation on campus

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Students at the University of North Carolina are demanding action on gun control in the wake of Mondays deadly Chapel Hill campus shooting.

Around 600 students took part in a rally on Wednesday calling for stricter state gun laws and holding a moment of silence for slain professor Zijie Yan.

The student newspaper The Daily Tar Heel marked the tragedy with a powerful front page on Wednesday, featuring the terrified text messages sent by loved ones to its editor-in-chief during the active situation. The page has gone viral.

Many questions still remain about suspect Tailei Qis motive for the attack as the search for the gun continues.

Mr Qi, a PhD student majoring in applied physical sciences, had complained about the victim online in the lead-up to the attack and railed against hard work, girls and tattletales and bullies in the US.

He was arrested and booked into Orange County Sheriffs Office jail on a first-degree murder charge for fatally shooting Yan, the head of the Department of Applied Sciences.
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Authorities have identified the faculty member killed in Mondays shooting at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

UNC PhD student Tailei Qi, 34, has been charged with first-degree murder in connection with the killing of Zijie Yan, an associate professor in the Department of Applied Physical Sciences and a researcher. Mr Yan was listed as his alleged killers academic adviser on Mr Qis UNC profile, which has since been removed from the universitys website.

Before joining UNC in 2019, he was an assistant professor at Clarkson University in New York and received postdoctoral training at the University of Chicago. The slain professor leaves behind two young daughters.

Doug Chrisey, Yans mentor at the Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, told NBC that Yan was a dedicated father who liked to cook and fish and was incredibly passionate about his research.

He was a quiet person with a constant smile, Mr Chrissey said. And I know he loved to be with his daughters ... He was a positive person and he had a great deal to offer. Theres no reason why it makes sense for it to be him. I cant imagine he ever said a cross word to me, even once.

He just felt like he had his own horse to ride and he was going to take the distance and not step in anybody elses area of research, Mr Chrisey added. In an academic environment, thats also pretty unique to have someone be just so positive. I was on the phone with a UNC faculty member a little while ago and we were both crying on the phone about him.

UNC rang its iconic Bell Tower at 1.02pm on Wednesday in Yans honour. UNC President Peter Hans described Yan as a devoted professor who was beloved by the community.

Assistant professor Zijie Yan was killed on Monday at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC at Chapel Hill)

This is a day of mourning for Tar Heels everywhere. Dr Zijie Yan was a good man and a dedicated scholar, and he was senselessly killed while doing his job, Mr Hans said. I join everyone in the Carolina community in condemning this act of violence and standing shoulder-to-shoulder with Dr. Yans family, friends, students, and colleagues.

The university had prepared vigils on Wednesday as students prepared to return to campus on Thursday.

Yan and his alleged killer co-authored several research papers focusing on nanoscience technology. But in tweets from an account believed to belong to Mr Qi, the alleged shooter complained about bullies and his PI  referring to his unnamed head of lab  being unable to handle these girls and tattletales.

Just have a talk with my PI and get his promise. He should have more experience to handle with these girls and tattletales, he wrote in August 2022.

Zijie Yan had joined UNC as an associate professor in the applied sciences department in 2019 (UNC)

Two months later in October, he referred to his PI again: Both the group of people to say I am lazy and that to prove me working hard instead of telling me that are trying to consume my privacy. I judge their motivation is only to tell my PI then control me by taletelling.

But its weird when I talked about it with my PI, he said no people spoke to him about that. so its nothing but some voyeurism for these people?

Yan studied as an undergraduate at the Hauzhong University of Science and Technology, where he obtained his bachelors in material science and engineering and computer science in 2005.

Law enforcement and first responders gather on South Street near the Bell Tower on the campus (AP)

The Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, where Yan got his masters in physics electronics, also posted a tribute on Tuesday.

He is remembered fondly by many of us that met him in the classroom, lab, or in the hallway of MRC, a Facebook post read. Among other things, he distinguished himself with publishing 17 journal articles in the course of his PhD study...

UNC at Chapel Hill Chancellor Kevin M Guskiewicz said in a statement on Tuesday that he has met with Yans family.

My leadership team and I have met with his colleagues and family to express our condolences on behalf of our campus, the statement read. Please join me in thinking and praying for his family and loved ones during this difficult time.

UNC police said during a press conference on Monday that a motive was not immediately evident.

PhD student Tailei Qi has been charged with Yans murder (Orange County Jail)

Mr Qi, a second-year PhD student majoring in applied physical sciences, graduated from Wuhan University in 2015 and also received a masters in material science from Lousiana State University in 2021. The suspect joined UNC at Chapel Hills Yan Lab in 2022.

UNC graduate student Aiden Scott, a former classmate of Mr Qi, described him as very quiet but nice.

I would have never guessed that he would be the kind of person who could possibly be capable of this kind of thing, Mr Scott told WRAL. Every single time he would talk to me, he seemed very nice... when I saw his face in the reports online, I was beyond shocked,

UNC has cancelled all classes on Tuesday as an investigation remains ongoing.

Mr Qi was ordered held without bond and is expected to appear in court again on 18 September.
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A college campus in North Carolina woke up on Tuesday gripped by fear, grief and many unanswered questions.

Just days into the start of a new term, students and faculty members at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill found themselves hunkering down inside classrooms and leaping from first floor windows as an active shooting situation unfolded on site.

Inside the science building, a faculty member was found shot dead.

Following a brief moment where the wrong person was arrested  an unsuspecting individual who missed the shelter-in-place alerts  campus police confirmed that the gunman had been taken into custody around 10 minutes from the scene.

The suspect, identified as graduate student Tailei Qi, has now been charged with the first-degree murder of Dr Zijie Yan.

Harrowingly, the horror and heartbreak is a somewhat familiar sight for the UNC community coming four years after a mass shooting at the Charlotte campus left two dead and four injured.

Officials are yet to release the identity of the victim in this latest attack or what may be the motive behind the shooting, with much of the details of what happened and why still unclear.

Heres what we do know so far about the shooting:

The shooting

The shooting unfolded at around 1pm local time on Monday when UNC Police responded to a 911 call reporting gunfire at the science lab in the heart of the campus.

Law enforcement arrived on the scene around two minutes after the call came in and plunged the campus into lockdown, warning that an armed and dangerous person was at large.

Law enforcement and first responders gather on South Street near the Bell Tower on the campus (AP)

Officials later confirmed that a faculty member had been shot dead inside a campus building.

Chilling footage shows terrified students and staff members barricaded inside classrooms and offices for fear that an active shooter was at large.

Soon after, the UNC Police released an image of Mr Qi  naming him only as a person of interest in the case and warning the public that if you see this person, keep your distance, put your safety first and call 911.

Around three hours on from the shooting, police confirmed that the suspect had been arrested near a residential area 10 minutes away from the campus.

The gun is yet to be recovered, police said.

The lockdown was eventually lifted at around 4.15pm.

The suspect

The suspect was identified on Tuesday as Tailei Qi, a graduate student who joined the Yan Lab of the college in 2022.

Based on his online bio at the UNC, he studied under Dr Zijie Yan  the leader of the physical chemistry group the Yan Research Group and head of the Department of Applied Physical Sciences.

Before joining UNC, Mr Qi previously studied material science at Louisiana State University and physics at Wuhan University.

A Twitter account believed to belong to Mr Qi reveals that he had railed against his work and his head of lab as well as what he described as bullies in the US before allegedly carrying out the shooting.

In a post on 1 August 2022, he wrote: Bully in america seems to be a problem. It often comes with people not stopping them at the first time.

Tailei Qi booking photo (Orange County Jail)

Explanation is not a solution but makes them feel others will plead them every time they raise a problem, making them voyeur to find an excuse day and night.

Two weeks later on 18 August 2022, he tweeted about his PI  referring to his unnamed head of lab  handling these girls and tattletales.

Just have a talk with my PI and get his promise. He should have more experience to handle with these girls and tattletales, he wrote.

Then, we can just get ourselves out of these stupid topic. Lets just focus our attention on nature.I wont change anything if not necessary.

Two months later in October, he referred to his PI again and an unidentified group of people.

Both the group of people to say I am lazy and that to prove me working hard instead of telling me that are trying to consume my privacy. I judge their motivation is only to tell my PI then control me by taletelling, he tweeted.

But its weird when I talked about it with my PI, he said no people spoke to him about that. so its nothing but some voyeurism for these people?

In other posts, Mr Qi addressed a mystery woman who he vowed to just let her go and his exhaustion with his workload.

I used to walk 80+ hours per week and I feel relaxing and energetic. Now I only work 60+ hours per week and I feel tired, he wrote in one.

In a post in July 2022  before he is believed to have started at UNC that fall  he posted a cryptic message calling his treatment by an unnamed boss disgusting.

Tailei Qi posted online about grievances with bullies, his PI and girls (X/Tailei Qi)

Just feel my privacy was insulted. When I work, I will think I was showing the boss I am working instead of interests, devaluing the meaning of my work, he wrote.

Thats so disgusting. Self-respect block me from working. Then it takes pains to convince myself what I do is just because I like.

In another post that same month, he wrote that only work with no play makes Jim a dull boy.

The Twitter account has the same name and the same image as both Mr Qis bio and the person of interest sent out by police during the brief manhunt.

It describes him as Graduate student @UNC, engaged in light-matter interaction and related materials.

In one post in early August  just weeks before the shooting  he issued an appeal to meet people at the college.

I would like to make some new friends. I am a second-year PhD student, interested in nanoparticle synthesis, optical trapping, self-assembly, spectra analysis, and ML, he said. a bit stupid in daily trifles, very enthusiastic talking about research. Reach me if inerest.

The victim

The victim was identified on Tuesday as Dr Zijie Yan as officials said that they needed to first notify next of kin.

Yan is believed to be the very same lead faculty member that the suspect railed against online, as Mr Qis head of lab.

Yan led the Yan Research Group, which Qi joined last year, after joining the Chapel Hill faculty in 2019, according to the groups UNC webpage.

Dr Zijie Yan was identified as the victim of the shooting (UNC)

Prior to this he earned his PhD in materials engineering from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in New York before working as an assistant professor at Clarkson University.

While the victim and suspects connection is now clear, the motive remains under investigation.

To actually have the suspect in custody gives us an opportunity to figure out the why and even the how, and also helps us to uncover a motive and really just why this happened today. Why today, why at all? UNC Police Chief Brian James said on Monday.

And we want to learn from this incident and we will certainly work to do our best to ensure that this never happens again on the UNC campus.

Law enforcement and first responders respond to the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (AP)

UNC-Chapel Hill Chancellor Kevin M Guskiewicz said in a statement that a hotline and other mental health resources were on offer for staff and students affected by the shooting.

The students are certainly traumatised, he said.

But I want to commend those who were inside the building ensuring everyones safety.

Classes have been canceled through Tuesday following the deadly shooting.

Due to todays incident on campus, UNC-Chapel Hill will operate at a Condition 2 on Tuesday, Aug. 29. This means that classes are canceled, and non-mandatory operations are suspended, the UNC said in an update.
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A Florida mural depicting Northern Irish journalist Lyra McKee was defaced with a swastika and anti-LGBTQ+ graffiti.

The mural was dedicated to McKee, a writer and activist, after she visited Orlando in 2017 to commemorate the one-year anniversary of the shooting at Pulse gay nightclub, which killed 49 people and injured dozens more. McKee was fatally shot in 2019 in Northern Ireland.

Florida State Rep Anna Vishkaee Eskamani called the act absolutely disgusting, adding Will do what we can to identify who did this and hold them accountable.

Photos she posted of the defacement show graffiti that reads, Protect lives save kids eyes from trans lies and Gay is not ok, along with other offensive writings next to swastikas.

The mural is located at Orlandos Zebra Youth centre, an organisation that provides services to those who identify as LGBTQ+. The mural shows a painted portrait of McKee in front of a rainbow heart. There is also a quote from one of her essays, which reads, Keep hanging on, kid. Its worth it. I love you.

Zebra Youths executive director, Heather Wilkie, told BBC News that due to the political climate in Florida, it was not surprising, I would say, but it was certainly very scary. She told the outlet, We felt like our safety was placed in jeopardy.

Ms Wilkie was seemingly referring to the anti-LGBTQ+ legislation that has been passed this year in the state, including the so-called Dont Say Gay Law and a ban on gender-affirming care.

Wed been lucky at Zebra - our murals had not been defaced so far - but we have partner organisations that have had similar issues happen with their murals and property, Ms Wilkie continued.

Ms Wilkie told the BBC that the police are  actually identifying this as a hate crime due to the nature of the language that was painted and some of the symbols.

Theyve been very good about trying to get the security cameras footage all around the area from every angle to try and identify who it is, Ms Wilkie added.

A spokesperson for the Orlando Police Department told The Independent that they dont currently have any suspects; the spokesperson also said the police could not confirm that the incident is being investigated as a hate crime.

NR Hines, a criminal justice policy strategist at the ACLU of Florida, condemned the act, telling The Independent in a statement: We expect vigorous condemnation of this disgusting act of bigotry by local and state officials  and a vigorous response to this hate crime by law enforcement officials.

They continued, On the heels of the anniversary of the Pulse massacre  coupled with the numerous hateful anti-LGBTQ+ policies that the Florida Legislature enacted, and Gov. Ron DeSantis has signed into law  bigots have clearly been emboldened. The defacing of this mural in Orlando only amplifies the real fear that LGBTQ+ residents already feel.

The policy strategist added, Hateful rhetoric and discriminatory policies have fostered a climate in which LGBTQ+ citizens attending a nightclub, Jews attending synagogue, and Black and Brown people out shopping in their neighborhood have become targets of hate and violence.
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A restaurant owner in small-town Kansas is defending herself against accusations that her complaint about the reporting tactics of a local newspaper led to an unprecedented police search of the publications offices and the death of an elderly woman, raising alarms from First Amendment advocates across the country.

You can knock me down, but you cant kick me out, Kari Newell of Marion told the Kansas City Star.

A lot of people take straightforward honesty as abrasive, she added. People arent familiar with hearing the truth.

On 7 August, Ms Newell, who owns two restaurants in the town, complained at a city council meeting that the Marion County Record had illegally accessed her personal information as it investigated a potential story on the business owners past offences involving drunk driving and driving without a licence.

The paper began investigating the past offences after local residents, including Ms Newells estranged husband, were circulating claims about Ms Newells history on social media using an alleged screenshot from a government website. A reporter for the Record, Phyllis Zorn, used information from the screenshot to investigate the claims, a move the Kansas Department of Revenue later said was legal.

It would have been irresponsible to just take the word of someone out there, Ms Zorn later told The Washington Post.

The paper ultimately decided not to run the story.

Nonetheless, after Ms Newells public complaint, police searched the offices of the Record, on 11 August, seizing computers and cell phones.

Video captures police raid on Kansas paper

They also searched the home where the papers editor, Eric Meyer, lived with his elderly mother. In harrowing home video footage, Ms Meyer can be seen yelling at police to leave. She died the following day.

After the raid, the story got even more complicated.

Press advocates say its extraordinarily uncommon and alarming for police to raid a newspapers offices, especially for accessing a public website, in this case the Kansas Revenue Departments page.

Front pages for the Marion County Records latest weekly edition are displayed on a window at its offices

Newsroom searches and seizures are among the most intrusive actions law enforcement can take with respect to the free press, and the most potentially suppressive of free speech by the press and the public, read a letter signed by 34 prominent news and media groups after the search.

"There appears to be no justification for the breadth and intrusiveness of the search  particularly when other investigative steps may have been available  and we are concerned that it may have violated federal law strictly limiting federal, state, and local law enforcements ability to conduct newsroom searches."

The warrant for the raid on the papers offices alleged that the paper was either impersonating [Newell] or lying about the reasons why the record was being sought.

Meanwhile, Ms Newell said shes been deluged with violent hate mail filled with expletives and comparing her to Hitler.

The Kansas Bureau of Investigation is investigating the case.
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A group of University of Wyoming sorority sisters cant sue the Kappa Kappa Gamma organisation for admitting a transgender student named Artemis Langford, a federal judge ruled on Friday.

The University of Wyoming chapter voted to admit  and, more broadly, a sorority of hundreds of thousands approved  Langford, Judge Alan B Johnson wrote in his ruling. With its inquiry beginning and ending there, the Court will not define woman today. The delegate of a private, voluntary organization interpreted woman, otherwise undefined in the nonprofits bylaws, expansively; this Judge may not invade Kappa Kappa Gammas freedom of expressive association and inject the circumscribed definition Plaintiffs urge.

In April, a groupd of six KKG members brought a lawsuit against the sorority, arguing it had violated the organisations bylaws and housing contracts by admitting Ms Langford, the first trans member of Greek life in U of W history.

"Im grateful that its over and I can get back to being a student," Ms Langford told the Casper Star Tribune in a statement. "Im grateful for everyones support  this has been a hard time. I hope this helps other students who are LGBTQ+ avoid the kind of scrutiny Ive been under and we can be who we are."

The case became a cause celebre on the right, with sorority members Jaylyn Westenbroek, Hannah Holtmeier, Allison Coghan, Grace Choate, Madeline Ramar and Megan Kosar, who initially tried to bring the lawsuit anonymously, appearing on right-wing outlets like Fox News.

[W]ere fighting for the importance of womens spaces and what it truly means to be a woman. We were promised from the beginning that we would have a sisterhood, meaning only females, and our national sorority has failed us," Ms Westenbroek told the outlet earlier this year.

The sorority, meanwhile, argued that KKG had adopted a position in 2015 allowing those who identified as women to join the sorority.

The suit repeatedly misgendered Ms Langford, refering to her as a man, and alleging her attraction to women made her threatening.

In his ruling, Judge Johnson called much of the suit unbeffiting in federal court and used Ms Langfords chosen pronouns.
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Sorority rules allow a transgender woman to belong to its University of Wyoming chapter, and a court can't interfere with that, a sorority being sued over the matter says in seeking the lawsuits dismissal.

Seven members of Kappa Kappa Gamma at Wyoming's only four-year state university sued in March, saying the sorority violated its own rules by admitting Artemis Langford last year. Six of the women refiled the lawsuit in May after a judge twice barred them from suing anonymously.

The Kappa Kappa Gamma motion to dismiss, filed Tuesday in U.S. District Court in Cheyenne, is the sorority's first substantive response to the lawsuit, other than a March statement by its executive director, Kari Kittrell Poole, that the complaint contains numerous false allegations.

The central issue in this case is simple: do the plaintiffs have a legal right to be in a sorority that excludes transgender women? They do not, the motion to dismiss reads.

The policy of Kappa Kappa Gamma since 2015 has been to allow the sorority's more than 145 chapters to accept transgender women. The policy mirrors those of the 25 other sororities in the National Panhellenic Conference, the umbrella organization for sororities in the U.S. and Canada, according to the Kappa Kappa Gamma filing.

The sorority sisters opposed to Langford's induction could presumably change the policy if most sorority members shared their view, or they could resign if a position of inclusion is too offensive to their personal values, the sorority's motion to dismiss says.

What they cannot do is have this court define their membership for them, the motion asserts, adding that private organizations have a right to interpret their own governing documents.

Even if they didn't, the motion to dismiss says, the lawsuit fails to show how the sorority violated or unreasonably interpreted Kappa Kappa Gamma bylaws.

The sorority sisters' lawsuit asks U.S. District Court Judge Alan Johnson to declare Langfords sorority membership void and to award unspecified damages.

The lawsuit claims Langford's presence in the Kappa Kappa Gamma house made some sorority members uncomfortable. Langford would sit on a couch for hours while staring at them without talking, the lawsuit alleges.

The lawsuit also names the national Kappa Kappa Gamma sorority council president, Mary Pat Rooney, and Langford as defendants. The court lacks jurisdiction over Rooney, who lives in Illinois and hasn't been involved in Langford's admission, according to the sorority's motion to dismiss.

The lawsuit fails to state any claim of wrongdoing by Langford and seeks no relief from her, an attorney for Langford wrote in a separate filing Tuesday in support of the sorority's motion to dismiss the case.

Instead, the women suing fling dehumanizing mud throughout the lawsuit to bully Ms. Langford on the national stage, Langford's filing says.

This, alone, merits dismissal, the Langford document adds.

One of the seven Kappa Kappa Gamma members at the University of Wyoming who sued dropped out of the case when Johnson ruled they couldn't proceed anonymously. The six remaining plaintiffs are Jaylyn Westenbroek, Hannah Holtmeier, Allison Coghan, Grace Choate, Madeline Ramar and Megan Kosar.
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Two Australians are seriously injured in hospital fter falling from a popular Game of Thrones filming location in Croatia.

A 34-year-old man was rushed into emergency surgery, while a 26-year-old woman was placed in intensive care after the pair fell from a medieval clifftop fortress in Pile, Dubrovnik.

Used as a filming location for Game of Thrones, Fort Lovrijenac and the surrounding Pile Gate  first constructed in 1537  is popular with tourists. Notably, the area was used to portray the fictitious Blackwater Bay, and featured in the second and third series.

Used as a filming location for Game of Thrones, Fort Lovrijenac and the surrounding Pile Gate is popular with tourist (Wikimedia Commons/CC BY 2.0/Donald Judge)

The couple were leaning against a wall in the early hours of Saturday morning before they lost their balance, falling five metres onto rocky terrain. The man remains in a serious condition, while the woman  reported as his partner by MailOnline  is in a critical condition.

We are constantly monitoring her and doing everything we can to fight for her life, Dr Ivan Bencic told Daily Mail Australia, adding that the woman had suffered head injuries and fractures to vertebrae in her back.

As far as the male is concerned he had a far better run than she did, Dr Bencic added.

According to reports in The Weekend Australian, the accident happened after one of the couple leant against the other, with Dubrovnik-Neretva police adding that they were drunk. The womans blood alcohol level reading was 0.3, whilst her partners rested at 0.21.

A blood alcohol level reading of 0.0 indicates sobriety, whilst levels over 0.08 per cent are considered impaired and those in excess of 0.40 per cent are dangerous or potentially fatal.

Andrijana Biskup, a spokeswoman for Dubrovnik-Neretva County police, told local news station Dubrovacka Televizija that the couple had been cuddling or kissing when the fall happened, The Sydney Morning Herald reported. A spokesperson for Australias Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade confirmed that consular assistance was being provided to the two Australians.

In March 2023, a British tourist was injured after he fell from Vietnams Cliff of Death whilst taking a selfie. The unnamed mans leg was crushed in Xeo Sa Lung village in the Pai Lung commune as a boulder hit him whilst taking the photo, causing him to fall.

The Cliff of Death is located near the popular Pi Leng Pass, described by officials as a dangerous area with large, unstable boulders stacked on top of one another. The cliffs are often scaled by tourists despite a lack of safety rails and frequently slippery conditions.
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A wildfire near the northeastern Greek region of Evros which has been raging for 11 days is unlikely to be brought under control, officials have said.

Deputy governor Dimitris Petrovich told national broadcaster ERT wind could cause the flames to spread even further.

Unfortunately, we see that the Dadia front cannot be contained and brought under control, he said, describing the conditions for firefighters as difficult.

The European Commission said the blaze, which is raging near the city of Alexandroupolis, is the largest single fire in the history of the EU.

Birds fly away from rising flames and smoke as a wildfire burns at Dadia National Park in the region of Evros (REUTERS)

Over 400 firefighters, six planes and four helicopters were working to put out the blaze in Evros, the fire department said.

Evacuation orders have been issued for a village in Evros and another village in neighbouring Rodopi.

The wildfire has been blamed for 20 of the 21 wildfire-related deaths in Greece last week. Authorities are investigating the cause of the fire, which has scorched more than 80,000 hectares (197,000 acres) of land, including in Dadia national park, according to the European Unions Copernicus Emergency Management Service.

Major wildfires have also been seen on the outskirts of the capital Athens and on the Aegean island of Andros.

Some 260 firefighters, one plane and three helicopters tackled the blaze on the outskirts of Athens, which burned into the Mount Parnitha national park.

Meanwhile, a third fire broke out on Saturday on the island of Andros in the Cyclades archipelago, which is suspected to have been caused by a lightning strike.

Greece suffers major wildfires every year and imposes wildfire prevention regulations, typically from the start of May to the end of October, limiting activities such as the burning of dried vegetation and the use of outdoor barbecues.

Fire truck drives among charred trees as a wildfire burns at Dadia National Park in the region of Evros, Greece, (REUTERS)

By Friday, fire department officials had arrested 163 people on fire-related charges since the start of the fire prevention season, government spokesman Pavlos Marinakis said, including 118 for negligence and 24 for deliberate arson. The police had made a further 18 arrests, he said.

Last month, thousands of people were evacuated from towns and villages across Greece after wildfires ravaged the country.

Fires spread through Corfu, Rhodes, Evia, Crete and the northern Peloponnese region in Greece.

The most serious fire in the country was on the island of Rhodes, where some 19,000 people had been evacuated from several locations.

Local police said 16,000 people were evacuated by land and 3,000 by sea from 12 villages and several hotels.

The regions deputy mayor said the fires in Corfu were caused by arson.
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A behind-closed-doors farewell ceremony has been held for the Wagner mercenary chief Yevgeny Prigozhin  a funeral avoided by Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Secrecy had surrounded the funeral arrangements for Prigozhin, killed in a plane crash on 23 August, two months to the day after staging a 24-hour mutiny that was the biggest challenge to Mr Putins authority since he rose to power in 1999.

The low-key ceremony stands in stark contrast to Prigozhins aggressive self-promotion, with videos from Ukraine having become a regular fixture of his months-long feud with Moscows military command over the invasion Mr Putin started. That ended with his forces marching on Moscow, only stopping 125 miles from the capital when a deal was struck with the Kremlin.

The farewell to Yevgeny Viktorovich took place in a closed format. Those who wish to say goodbye may visit Porokhovskoye cemetery, his press service said in a short post on Telegram, accompanied by a photo of Prigozhin.

But the seemingly private ceremony suits the Kremlin and Mr Putin, with Prigozhin having gone from years-long ally of the Russian president to being branded a traitor over his armed uprising.

It meant that the event could not be turned into a large-scale show of support for the Wagner chief, who as well as collecting enemies had gained admiration among some of Moscows elite for throwing his troops into some of the bloodiest battles of Mr Putins war. That included around the eastern Ukrainian city of Bakhmut, control of which has gained symbolic significance for both Kyiv and Moscow. Wagner forces were at the vanguard of that fight and helped Russian forces take it  although fierce battles continue around the suburbs of the ruined city.

Hence why Mr Putin and the Kremlin have to walk a fine line in not denigrating Prigozhin, despite few observers believing the Russian president would let the embarrassment of the Wagner mutiny stand without retribution. Comments from Mr Putin have reflected that stance. He noted last week that Wagner leaders made a significant contribution to the fighting in Ukraine and described Prigozhin as a talented businessman and a man of difficult fate who had made serious mistakes in life.

A portrait Yevgeny Prigozhin at an informal street memorial in Moscow (AP)

Pictures published on social media showed Prigozhins dark granite tombstone surrounded by a sea of flowers, mostly red roses, in the cemetery on the northeast edge of his hometown. Other makeshift memorials have appeared in recent days in both Moscow and St Petersburg.

Sergei Markov, a pro-Kremlin political analyst, noted that Prigozhin has become a legendary figure for his supporters who are increasingly critical of the authorities. Prigozhins funeral raises an issue of communication between the bureaucratic Russian government system that doesnt have much political potential and the politically active patriotic segment of the Russian public, Mr Markov said.

Russias top criminal investigation agency, the Investigative Committee, officially confirmed Prigozhins death on Sunday, but it has not given a cause for the crash. A number of leaders in the West, and Ukraines President Volodymyr Zelensky, have suggested that nothing of this magnitude could occur in Russia without Mr Putins knowledge. The Kremlin has claimed that such accusations are an absolute lie. It had confirmed earlier on Tuesday that Mr Putin would not attend Prigozhins funeral.

Also on Tuesday, prominent Russian nationalist Igor Girkin failed in an appeal against his pre-trial detention on charges of inciting extremism, a Moscow court said. Mr Girkin, also known as Strelkov, has fiercely criticised the way that Russia has conducted the war in Ukraine and his arrest was seen as an extension of a crackdown on dissent by Putin.

The Embraer Legacy 600 private jet on which Prigozhin was travelling crashed north of Moscow with the loss of all 10 people on board, including top Wagner bosses Dmitry Utkin and Valery Chekalov, and a crew of three.

Earlier on Tuesday, Chekalov, the head of Wagner logistics, was buried at another St Petersburg cemetery. His family was joined by dozens of people, including Wagner mercenaries and employees from Prigozhins business empire.

On the battlefield in Ukraine, a military spokesperson said Kyivs forces were advancing against Russian forces in the southern region of Zaporizhzhia after recapturing Robotyne, the latest of a cluster of villages it says it has taken back in recent weeks.

Kyiv also said its troops had had some success in the direction of the village of Verbove in the Zaporizhzhia region, but gave no details.

Ukrainian deputy defence minister Hanna Maliar said fighting was heavy in the country but that Ukrainian forces were making progress around Bakhmut, while Russian shelling killed a 45-year-old man and wounded at least one other person in the northeastern Ukrainian town of Kupiansk. Russia also said it had downed two drones over the Black Sea it said were launched by Ukraine.

Reuters and Associated Press contributed to this report
 Close Aftermath of Russian missile strike on Ukraine mail depot that killed six

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The Russian Army has used new, longer-range drones for the first time in an attack against Ukraine near Kyiv, reports suggest.

The Italmas weapon, which is harder to detect than the Iranian-made Shahed drone, may be part of Vladimir Putins strategy to expand Russias arsenal as harsher winter weather approaches, the Institute for the Study of War said.

It comes as the Ukrainian city of Avdiivka, Donetsk, faced heavy shelling overnight as Russia continues with its offensive push into the region.

The enemy dropped about 40 guided aerial bombs in two nights. But the number of ground assaults has been reduced, half of what it was yesterday and the day before, Oleksandr Shtupun, spokesperson for Ukraines southern group of forces, said.

Mr Shtupun added that Russia had suffered about 2,400 casualties in the last five days during its campaing in the Donetsk region.

Meanwhile, Ukraine launched an underwater sabotage attack on Russias Black Sea fleet near Sevastopol, Crimea, on Tuesday, according to Mikhail Razvozhayev, the Moscow-installed governor of the region.
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India successfully launched its first solar space mission on Saturday, just days after becoming the first country in history to achieve a soft landing of a spacecraft on the Moons uncharted south pole.

A spacecraft named Aditya (Sun in Sanskrit) was launched at 11.50am local time (7.20am BST) from the same space centre in Sriharikota in southern India where the countrys historic Chandrayaan-3 moon mission was launched in July.

Thousands of people gathered to witness the historic launch from a viewing platform at the centre, chanting slogans and cheering as the rocket left Earth with a blast of smoke and fire, setting off for one of the most ambitious missions yet from Indias space agency Isro.

A live stream hosted on YouTube by Isro was being watched by more than 800,000 people at its peak shortly after launch.

The mission aims to study solar winds and storms which can cause disturbances on Earth commonly seen as auroras as well as problems with human electronics.

The Aditya-L1 is designed to travel to a point 1.5 million km (930,000 miles) from Earth over the course of four months, stopping far short of the sun, which is 150 million km from Earth.

It will reach a location known as a Lagrange Point (in this case, L1), where it can maintain its position relative to the Sun and Earth due to being held in balance between the two celestial bodies gravitational fields. This will offer the Aditya craft an unobstructed and continuous view of the Sun while also reducing fuel consumption.

We have made sure we will have a unique data set that is not currently available from any other mission, said Sankar Subramanian, principal scientist of the Aditya-L1 mission.

This will allow us to understand the sun, its dynamics as well as the inner heliosphere, which is an important element for current-day technology, as well as space-weather aspects, he added.

The mission has the capacity to make a big bang in terms of science, said Somak Raychaudhury, who was involved in developing some components of the observatory craft, adding that energy particles emitted by the Sun can hit satellites that control communications on Earth.

There have been episodes when major communications have gone down because a satellite has been hit by a big corona emission. Satellites in low earth orbit are the main focus of global private players, which makes the Aditya-L1 mission a very important project, he said.

Scientists hope to learn more about the effect of solar radiation on the thousands of satellites in orbit, a number growing with the success of ventures like the Starlink communications network of Elon Musks SpaceX.

The low earth orbit has been heavily polluted due to private participation, so understanding how to safeguard satellites there will have special importance in todays space environment, said Rama Rao Nidamanuri, head of the department of Earth and space sciences at the Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology.

Longer term, data from the mission could help better understand the Suns impact on Earths climate patterns and the origins of solar wind, the stream of particles that flow from the sun through the solar system, Isro scientists have said.

India in recent years has privatised space launches and is looking to open the sector to foreign investment as it targets a five-fold increase in its share of the global launch market within the next decade.

As space turns into a global business, the country is also banking on the success of Isro to showcase its prowess in the sector.

The launch of the Aditya-L1 spacecraft took place barely a week after India beat Russia to become the first country to land on the south pole of the Moon. While Russia had a more powerful rocket and attempted its landing earlier, Indias Chandrayaan-3 succeeded where the Luna-25 failed to execute a textbook soft landing.

Additional reporting by agencies
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Thousands of travellers have been left stranded and more than 200,000 affected by delays and cancellations after a major outage hit Britains air traffic control system, forcing the cancellation of more than 1,200 flights at the end of the bank holiday weekend.

A network-wide failure left controllers having to enter flight details manually, leading to colossal delays and many passengers being stuck on grounded planes for hours on end.

Air traffic service Nats said it had identified and remedied the fault. But holidaymakers  many of whom were returning from holidays and due to return to work on Tuesday  were braced for the chaos to continue as airlines struggle to clear the backlog.

In the worst single days disruption to UK flying since the Icelandic volcano in 2010, an estimated 200,000 passengers were expected to wake up up on Tuesday morning where they did not intend to be.

And while affected passengers may be able to claim for hotel or meal expenses from their airline, they will not be entitled to statutory compensation as the situation is described as an extraordinary circumstance.

British Airways said it had to make significant changes to its schedule and warned passengers not to travel to airports without first confirming that their flight was going ahead.

A spokesman for Heathrow, Britains biggest airport, also said flights would remain significantly disrupted.

Follow our live updates here

On one of the busiest days of the year for travellers, the UK air-traffic control system failed for several hours, grounding more than 1,200 flights, and delaying thousands more.

The Independent has calculated the figures using information from the aviation data service Flightradar24.

Worst hit was London Heathrow, with 312 arrivals and departures, just ahead of London Gatwick on 300.

British Airways warned passengers not to travel to airports without first confirming that their flight was going ahead (AP) open image in gallery

The Heathrow figure includes a number of long-haul flights, including transatlantic departures to Chicago, Philadelphia and Toronto.

Further flight cancellations have been made at Heathrow on Tuesday, due to the number of planes and crew out of position.

Manchester had 162 flights cancelled. Its sister airport, London Stansted, saw 104 grounded. Both Edinburgh and Luton airports had 102 cancellations. Belfast International, Bristol and Birmingham airports all had more than 50 cancelled flights.

The aviation industry was already working at full stretch, with very little slack in the system particularly at Heathrow and Gatwick  respectively the busiest two-runway airport in the world and busiest single-runway airport.

Have you been affected by flight delays? Email andy.gregory@independent.co.uk

In a statement, Nats apologised for the disruption. It said: We have identified and remedied the technical issue affecting our flight planning system this morning.

Our engineers will be carefully monitoring the systems performance as we return to normal operations.

A spokesman for Heathrow said flights would remain significantly disrupted (PA Archive) open image in gallery

The flight planning issue affected the systems ability to automatically process flight plans, meaning that flight plans had to be processed manually which cannot be done at the same volume, hence the requirement for traffic flow restrictions.

Nats later updated its statement to say: It will take some time for flights to return to normal and we will continue to work with the airports and airlines to recover the situation.

Gemma Saleh, 43, who teaches part-time at law school and lives in Newcastle, boarded an easyJet flight with her family at 11.30am in Sardinia bound for Gatwick but ended up stuck on the plane for close to two hours.

Passenger reveals chaos resulting from UK air traffic control failure

We were told as we started to taxi there was an issue with the air traffic computer but [the pilot] didnt know more and wed wait on the tarmac till we got a slot, she said.

Londoner Julian Eccles lost half of his four-day trip to central Italy and Lake Garda. His easyJet flight from Gatwick to Ancona was cancelled and he had to book with TUI to Verona on Wednesday morning instead.

Maisie Traynor said she and her friends had been stuck on the tarmac in Glasgow for six hours with no food or drink, with little information given to them by TUI.

The Independent has calculated that some 1,200 flights were cancelled (Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved) open image in gallery

David Miller, a 47-year-old, had been especially keen to get home to Chester having been mugged on holiday in Barcelona  only to find himself facing 12-hour delays upon arriving at the airport.

While the captain of his British Airways flight ordered passengers to embark anyway in the hope of securing an earlier departure slot, he had warned those on board to brace for a delay of at least four hours. He praised the pilot for keeping passengers well updated, and joked: Everyones jovial, the air cons on.

Joanne Colley said her group was stranded in Turkey, with no alternative BA flights scheduled back for the rest of the week. She said she was now looking at indirect flights, or possibly even driving home.

Planes gather at Heathrow and Gatwick as technical issues hit air traffic control (Flightradar24) open image in gallery

Ashleigh Blaney, a 34-year-old finance assistant from Glasgow, had been in Amsterdam watching the Dutch Grand Prix with her brother, both of whom found themselves stranded in Schiphol airport.

Ms Blaney told The Independent that they had been queueing for over an hour in border control in an attempt to exit the airport, and that no one could tell them where they could pick up their checked-in luggage, describing the situation as an absolute nightmare.

While they had managed to rebook their flight tomorrow, it was arriving in Edinburgh instead  and there were no hotels available on the easyJet app, Ms Blaney said. Her brother, who had been due to fly to Gran Canaria at 6am tomorrow, will no longer be able to make his trip.

A family waits for flight information after the National Air Traffic Service (NATS) restricted air traffic (REUTERS) open image in gallery

Erica Francker said that she and a group of students were stuck in Marseille with a delay of several hours. Well get vouchers, which are 3 to 4.50 for easyJet, for food after three hours delay, but were also told to not leave the gate for too long, she said.

Irene Franklin, 60, had her Delta flight from Heathrow to Austin, Texas  along with her daughter, son-in-law and two friends  cancelled at the last minute. She said: It was [saying delayed by] two hours, now its cancelled. Its now not until tomorrow morning at 10. Its frustrating but what are you going to do?

Gordon Wheeler said his daughter, her partner and two young children were stuck in Alicante, having already had their original easyJet flight cancelled last Thursday. They had to pay for emergency accommodation and food for four days, and are now facing further delays.

Passengers on board a TUI flight have complained of having no food or information for six hours (Maisie Traynor ) open image in gallery

Broadcaster Gabby Logan was among those stuck on a flight after being informed that UK airspace is shut. But she later said the flight was taking off.

Home secretary Suella Braverman sympathised with anyone affected.

She told broadcasters: I am very cognisant that this will disrupt peoples travel plans  those who are waiting to arrive in the UK, those waiting to depart, and I do sympathise with any disruption they may be experiencing.

During times of travel chaos, The Independents travel correspondant Simon Calder is here to provide unparalleled advice to holidaymakers. You can sign up to Simons newsletter by clicking here. Subscribers to Independent Premium can also receive a weekly Ask Me Anything email from Simon which sees him answer your burning travel questions. You can sign up to Independent Premium by clicking here.

Simon will also be on hand from 9-10am GMT, on Wednesday 30 August to answer all your questions in an Ask Me Anything event here. From advice on your rights to what to do if your flight is cancelled, he will be answering live in the comments section and you can submit your questions in advance by clicking here.
 Close Simon Calder on air traffic control chaos - how to get refunds, compensation

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Airlines have demanded compensation reform as air traffic control chaos has seen 2,000 flights cancelled across Europe.

More than 2,000 flights have been cancelled in the last three days, following an hours-long air control system failure that sent flight schedules into meltdown and left thousands of travellers stranded.

Industry body Iata projected a 100m loss in revenue for airlines as customers reclaim the costs for food, accommodation and alternative travel, urging the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) to review the compensation system and make the National Air Traffic Services (Nats) contribute to the cost.

Its very unfair because the air traffic control system, which was at the heart of this failure, doesnt pay a single penny, Willie Walsh, the director general of Iata, told the BBC.

He added that the UK should look at the way passenger compensation is dealt with to ensure that the people who are responsible for the delays and cancellations ultimately bear the costs.

The UKs air traffic control boss, Martin Rolfe, said the glitch  caused by dodgy flight data  has been fixed and will not occur in the future.

Have you been affected by delays? If so email maanya.sachdeva@independent.co.uk
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Tropical Storm Idalia, now officially classed as a hurricane, is hurtling towards the US state of Florida, where hundreds of residents have been ordered to leave their homes.

A state of emergency was issued in 46 of Floridas 67 counties, a wide patch that stretches across the northern half of the state from the Gulf Coast to the Atlantic Coast. Across this area, residents have been heading to shelters and loading up on sandbags.

Several counties are at risk of life-threatening floods, and Florida governor Ron DeSantis said of the evacuations in a press conference on 28 August: We can rebuild someones home. You cant unring the bell, though, if somebody stays in harms way and does battle with Mother Nature.

Idalia has already brought misery to Cuba, where thousands have been evacuated from their homes while faced with heavy rain and flooding.

Those who have upcoming trips to Florida may well be wondering if its safe to visit the state right now. Heres what we know so far.

Where will be affected by Hurricane Idalia?

After charting a path over the Gulf of Mexico, Idalia is expected to curve northeast toward the west coast of Florida before making landfall on Wednesday  before which it will rapidly intensify into an extremely dangerous major hurricane, according to the US National Hurricane Center.

Nearly the entire Gulf Coast  as well as Key West and the Lower Florida Keys  are under some form of hurricane, tropical storm and storm surge watches and warnings. Some of Floridas largest cities, such as Tampa and Orlando, may well be affected. The US National Weather Service said that coastal areas as far south as the Florida Keys could see storm surges as Idalia approaches.

Can I fly into Florida?

The extreme weather is already causing disruption for airports. Tampa International Airport has now closed, and will remain shut until the hurricane passes  Thursday morning as been mooted as a possible opening time.

Southwest Florida International Airport, near Fort Myers, has not shared any closure plans but told USA Today that they are monitoring the weather.

Two other major airports  Miami International and Orlando International  have not announced any plans to close, and could end up being outside the hurricanes main path.

A number of US airlines, including Delta, United and Southwest, are being more flexible with changes to bookings given the incoming storm. Speak to your airline to see where you stand.

The Independent has contacted major carriers flying out of the UK to the US for more information.

A Virgin Atlantic spokesperson confirmed that their Tampa flights are subject to cancellation due to the airport being closed, and customers travelling in the coming days are advised to check the status of their flight.

What is the latest government travel advice?

The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) hasnt issued any specific advice regarding Hurricane Idalia but its general advice regarding hurricanes states that people should:

Monitor the progress of approaching storms on the US National Hurricane Center website

Follow instructions from local authorities, including evacuation orders

Visit the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) website for information on preparing for extreme weather and evacuating, and for a list of disaster supplies that will help

The FCDO also advises that travellers ask their tour operator, airline and travel insurance provider what their terms and conditions are if plans are affected by extreme weather.

Visit Florida, the states tourism board, said that it is currently monitoring Idalia and that all visitors should watch the progress of the hurricane. The Independent has reached out for additional comment.

Can I cancel my holiday to Florida? Will I get a refund?

If youre travelling to part of Florida unaffected by the hurricane and you cancel, its highly unlikely you will be able to claim a refund. However, speak to your airline and/or tour operator, who will be able to talk through your options. Given the extraordinary circumstances, holiday companies and airlines may be open to you changing your plans.

If you have booked a package holiday to areas affected by Idalia, you should be able to claim a full refund or rebook your trip as you are protected by the Package Travel Regulations, which stipulate customers are entitled to their money back if the performance of the holiday is significantly impacted by external factors.

Will I be protected by travel insurance?

As the FCDO has not issued a travel warning regarding the hurricane, cancellation costs wont be covered by most providers. However, policies can vary, so make sure you check to see what your travel insurance covers.
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Passengers travelling on South Koreas largest airline in the coming weeks could find themselves getting weighed at the airport.

Korean Air confirmed on its website that it would be measuring the average weight of passengers along with their carry-on items for flight safety.

It follows a similar move announced by Air New Zealand in June.

Travellers flying from two of South Koreas busiest airports, both in the capital Seoul, will be asked to step on the scales. Passengers on domestic routes from Gimpo Airport may be weighed from 28 August to 6 September, while the same is true for passengers departing from Incheon International Airport from 8-19 September.

The airline has confirmed that if passengers would prefer not to share their weight they can opt out by letting airport staff know.

Koreas Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transportation (MOLIT) has advised all Korean flag carriers to weigh passengers with their carry-on baggage to update its Aircraft Weight and Balance Management Standards, a spokesperson told The Independent.

This is crucial for safety of flight operations, and Korean Air complies with this mandate and remains committed to safety, its number one priority.

The process is used to help determine the weight distribution on aircraft, and calculations need to take place every five years.

Throughout June, more than 10,000 passengers flying with Air New Zealand were expected to be weighed before they boarded their flight.

It was part of an essential initiative to ensure the safe and efficient operation of the aircraft, according to Air New Zealand, and was also a requirement from the countrys Civil Aviation Authority.

As The Independent has reported previously, weighing every passenger before a flight can increase safety and cut the environmental harm caused by each flight; currently, airlines use assumed mass, estimating the total weight of the passengers by using set figures.
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A pregnant woman who travelled to Greece to celebrate her first wedding anniversary is among thousands of passengers left stranded abroad, as UK air travelcontinues to reel from a major air traffic control meltdown.

Around 200,000 people saw their flights cancelled on Monday after a technical fault with National Air Traffic Services systems led to 1,500 planes being grounded and many thousands more delayed.

Despite the issue being fixed on Monday, the major disruption to tightly-packed bank holiday schedules continues to cause chaos in UK flight schedules  with many passengers now facing the prospect of being stuck overseas for more than a week.

Lucy Chang, who is six months pregnant, and her husband Iain Hawthorn initially faced a 10-day wait to return from the Greek island of Rhodes, where they had been celebrating their first anniversary, after their flight to Gatwick on Monday was cancelled.

With no option to book a hotel through the EasyJet app, the couple, aged 35 and 37 respectively, had to arrange their own accommodation  with all of the airlines 29 flights from Rhodes to Gatwick between Tuesday and next Thursday showing on the app as having sold out.

After waiting in the EasyJet chat queue for seven hours on Tuesday, an adviser told them to book with an alternative carrier and submit claims for review. But they were unable to confirm whether their extra accommodation would be compensated.

The adviser then ended the chat on her own accord without asking if we needed any further assistance, Mr Hawthorn alleged.

The couple has since been able to secure flights on Thursday, but have been forced to pay well over 1,500 including the additional accommodation, Mr Hawthorn told The Independent. Ms Chang will have to miss a prenatal glucose test and a midwifery appointment, her husband said.

open image in gallery Iain Hawthorn and Lucy Chang pictured during happier times on a visit to Symi, near Rhodes (Lucy Chang)

The couple said it had been an extremely frustrating time, adding: Ultimately, we wasted a full day seeking clarification on next steps and were essentially told to find our own way home with no support or assurance that we would be reimbursed after being on hold all day.

EasyJet told The Independent it was reaching out to Ian and Lucy to ensure they are reimbursed promptly.

Meanwhile, Bart Somsen  whose flight from Alicante to Luton was cancelled  was among several to describe distressing scenes at airports on Monday.

With the first available EasyJet flight not for seven days  which was not an option, the 50-year-old marketing manager said he and his wife Sarah had finally been able to secure a new flight to Amsterdam on Wednesday, where they will have to stay overnight before flying home on Thursday.

Mr Somsen, who lives in Milton Keynes, calculated that the new flights, hotels and taxis had left them at least 1,000 out of pocket, but mused that all in all, a return home on Thursday is not too bad considering the thousands of UK-bound travellers at Spanish airports caught up in the disruption.

open image in gallery Bart Somsen and his wife Sarah are due to arrive home on Thursday after an unexpected stop in Amsterdam (Bart Somsen)

Some have been forced to abandon air travel altogether. Matteo Nicola and his wife had travelled to Albania to visit his dying grandfather, who died last week. But they found themselves stuck in the Netherlands as the air traffic chaos unfolded, during a stopover on their return from Tirana.

Offered the choice by Ryanair of either rebooking onto the first available flight  which was not until Friday  or receiving a refund for their original ticket, they had no alternative but to stay the night in Eindhoven and return to the UK by bus.

The whole trip, from Eindhoven to London Victoria by bus, and then a train to Preston, has cost 500 so far, not including their missed salaries.

I dont think I will get any compensation from Ryanair or anyone else. This was the last thing I wanted to experience after being emotionally broken from the loss of my grandfather, the 30-year-old data scientist told The Independent.

Other holidaymakers have been forced to resign themselves to an unexpected week away from home.

After Mondays 8:10pm flight from Faro to Belfast was cancelled, Martin Andrew Lavelle and his girlfriend were among the passengers to receive an email from EasyJet to say they had been put on a new plane.

However, the flight is not due until next Monday  seven days after their original ticket  and instead lands in Manchester, where they will have to stay overnight before finally flying home to Belfast on Tuesday morning.

Mr Lavelle, who is a self-employed floor layer and whose partner works for the NHS, said he had spent a soul-destroying 18 hours at Faro Airport on Monday and had still not slept by 4:30pm on Tuesday, having only just been checked into their accommodation provided by EasyJet  which the company has only booked until Thursday.

open image in gallery Passengers described chaotic scenes at airports on Monday as the UKs air traffic control systems went down (Reuters)

While they have looked at alternative flights home, there just doesnt seem to be much because of everything thats happening, Mr Lavelle told The Independent, with another group rebooked on the same journey finding that renting a car to drive home instead would cost them 4,200.

It was just a shock yesterday thinking we were going home and then [the flight] got delayed three times and then was cancelled, he said. We just didnt know what to do. The airport was madness, there was just people everywhere, at every angle.

I was on the phone to EasyJet all night long and just couldnt get through, nothing, he said. Every time we went to the [customer service] window, they were just useless, they werent giving us any help. They were more or less saying pick your own accommodation because its pointless sitting here waiting.

Its a terrible thing to go through, Mr Lavelle said of the ordeal, before adding that their new overnight journey home looks set to be even worse.

EasyJet told The Independent it was aware of Mr Lavelles circumstances, and are already reaching out to help extend his accommodation stay and return home as quickly as possible, and in the coming days would be flying larger aircraft and operating additional flights to repatriate customers.

The airline said in a statement: Due to the Air Traffic Control systems failure affecting UK airspace yesterday, some flights were unfortunately unable to operate.

We have been doing everything we can to minimise the impact of the disruption, providing customers with information on their options to transfer their flight for free or receive a refund, securing hotel accommodation where possible and advising any customers who book their own accommodation or alternative travel arrangements that they will be reimbursed.

While this is outside of our control, we apologise for the difficulty this has caused and we remain focused on doing all we can to assist and repatriate our customers as soon as possible at this very busy time of year.
Protests hit the first day of London mayor Sadiq Khans ultra-low emission zone (Ulez) scheme expansion, with furious demonstrations outside No 10 and traffic cameras smashed or vandalised with spray paint.

The Crown Prince of Kuwait had his visit to meet Rishi Sunak partially disrupted by opponents of the charge on motorists using high-polluting vehicles, who staged an angry protest outside Downing Street.

Police were forced to restrain some anti-Ulez activists as tempers flared in scuffles on Whitehall. Some campaigners chanted get Khan out and held up mocked-up car registration plates bearing the slogan.
Striking satellite footage shows lightning flashing as Tropical Storm Idalia approaches Florida.

The storm is forecast to hit the Sunshine State by Wednesday morning (30 August), after intensifying into a category 3 hurricane, with fears that the weather could bring life-threatening surges and flooding.

Forecasters said they expected Idalia to become a hurricane on Tuesday in the Gulf of Mexico and then curve northeast toward the west coast of Florida.

Another storm, Franklin, could bring life-threatening storm surges to the US East Coast and Bermuda.
Schoolchildren in Washington DC appeared bemused as Joe Biden and his wife, Jill, welcomed them back to school.

The US president and the first lady visited Eliot-Hine Middle School as students returned for the first day of the 2023-2024 school year.

Standing at the bottom of a busy staircase, the Bidens shook hands with the children and a number appeared rather puzzled by their appearance in the corridors.

Others looked excited as the president greeted them.

During his trip, Mr Biden also told students that he understands its hard for them to return after not doing any work over the summer.
Ryanair boss Michael OLeary has slammed air traffic control (ATC) provider Nats for the unacceptable disruption caused over the past two days.

In a video message, the chief executive described Monday as a very difficult day with 250 flights cancelled, while a further 70 were axed on Tuesday.

He said: We have been in contact with UK Nats.

We still havent had an explanation from them (about) what exactly caused this failure yesterday and where were their back-up systems.

Its not acceptable that UK Nats simply allow their computer systems to be taken down and everybodys flights get cancelled.
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Its no secret at this point that Ron DeSantiss image has taken a hit since he hit his peak in November 2022 after he cruised to a nearly 20-point re-election as Florida governor in an otherwise dim year from Republicans. His lacklustre performance on the presidential campaign trail has led to many people questioning whether he can go the distance against Donald Trump in the GOP presidential primary.

And it looks like he might literally be facing even rougher waters than he already has weathered. This last week, a white gunman killed shot and killed three Black people at a Dollar General store in Jacksonville. In response, Mr DeSantis said that the shooting, based on the manifesto that they discovered from the scumbag who did this, was racially motivated. He was targeting people based on their race.

But when he attended a vigil in Jacksonville, a historically Republican city that recently elected a Democratic mayor, the residents of the city were not having it and they heckled the governor.

Mr DeSantis has staked his claim on making Florida a place where wokeness comes to die and has passed laws restricting how race is taught in classrooms in the state. Others Black leaders, including some Black Republican members of Congress, have also criticised the states middle school history curriculum, which says that enslaved people developed skills that could be applied for personal benefit.

And similarly, some felt that Mr DeSantiss words were not a sufficient denunciation of racism. After the governors remarks, Rev Jeffrey Rumlin, a pastor of The Dayspring Church in Jacksonville, said, Respectfully, governor, he was not a scumbag, before saying He was a racist.

Others have accused Mr DeSantis of creating a climate where such senseless violence can occur, noting how he had signed legislation in April that allowed people to carry concealed weapons without a government permit. All of this combined might explain why the governor would be considered persona non grata as a community grieved.

But on top of that, Mr DeSantis also suspended his campaign as Florida gets ready for Hurricane Idalia. Florida governors approval ratings live and die by how well they handle a hurricane or tropical storm and picking up the pieces afterward. In the weeks leading up to the 2022 midterm election, Mr DeSantis received high marks from many Floridians for his response to Hurricane Ian. Incidentally, the response to the disaster required Mr DeSantis to appear frequently with President Joe Biden, the man he hopes to challenge in November 2024.

As a result, the governor might be able to portray himself as a competent executive and images of him surveying the damage could bolster his image. Of course, it could also severely backfire; just ask Mr DeSantiss competitor for the GOP nomination Chris Christie, who as governor of New Jersey, embraced then-president Barack Obama during Hurricane Sandy in the weeks leading up the 2012 presidential election.

Mr Christie would overwhelmingly win re-election but Republicans labelled him a heretic for buddying up with a Democratic president. And this was before the controversy of the closure of the George Washington Bridge torpedoed Mr Christies political future permanently.

Similarly, despite the fact he did not engage with many of his competitors throughout the debate and came off as petulant when he was asked about whether vice president Mike Pence did the right thing on January 6, there are signs Mr DeSantis might be doing better than people thought. A poll from FiveThirtyEight, Ipsos andThe Washington Post found that respondents thought he and Republican businessman Vivek Ramaswamy performed the best.

At the same time, the fact remains that Mr Trump holds a massive lead against Mr DeSantis, who has been spreading rumours that Mr DeSantis might drop out of the presidential race, which the governor vehemently denies.

And that presents the major challenge for Mr DeSantis: he has to fight a two-front war, facing the normal slings and arrows of a governor and presidential candidate and whatever Mr Trump throws his way.
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On Monday, there was a split screen of two high-stakes hearings. Both hearings were related to Donald Trumps effort to overturn the 2020 election, and both will have massive ramifications for Trump, his co-defendants, and the country.

In DC, Donald Trump was dealt a huge loss. US District Court Judge Tanya Chutkan heard arguments from Special Counsel prosecutors and Trumps defense lawyers about their proposed trial dates for the federal election subversion case. The hearing got so heated that Judge Chutkan had to tell Trumps defense to "take the temperature down" twice. The Trump teams bombast didnt help their cause. Judge Chutkan set a trial date for March 4, 2024. This is one day before Super Tuesday and three weeks before Trumps Hush Money trial scheduled for March 25, 2024.

In Georgia, the ruling has yet to be issued, but the hearing did not go well for Team MAGA. Trumps former Chief of Staff Mark Meadows sought to move Fulton Countys 2020 election subversion case to federal court. Fulton County DA Fani Willis is prosecuting the case, which involves a 41-count indictment, including a RICO charge, targeting 19 co-defendants, including Meadows and Trump. With nearly four hours of surprise testimony from Mark Meadows and Fani Willis laying out her case with testimony from Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger, Mondays hearing was a mini-trial glimpse into whats to come.

US District Court Judge Steve Jones heard all the testimony and didnt rule from the bench but said he would as fast as possible. Whatever the result, it will have implications for the other 18 co-defendants, including Donald Trump.

The hearings greatly impact how these 2020 election subversion cases will be prosecuted. The DC case, in particular, will have an enormous impact on the 2024 campaign season, as Donald Trump will be compelled to jump between the courthouse and the campaign trail.

Lets break down these hearings, their rulings (potential outcomes in the case of Georgia), and their impact.

DC Hearing: Federal Election Subversion Case

The Hearing

No cameras were allowed in this hearing, so we had to rely on journalists in the courtroom, like The Independents Andrew Feinberg.

Judge Chutkan began the hearing by rebuffing both the prosecutions proposed date, January 2024, and the defenses absurd proposed date of April 2026. She then explained that justice should be the first consideration, not the defendants schedule.

Setting a trial date does not depend and should not depend on the defendants personal and professional obligations. Mr. Trump, like any defendant, will have to make the trial date work regardless of his schedule, Chutkan said. Notably, she referred to Trump as "Mr Trump" once again, further highlighting her point that Trump should be treated like any defendant.

Prosecutor Molly Gaston outlined how theyve structured the millions of pages of documents to expedite discovery, and Judge Chutkan agreed. Gaston also cited Trumps incendiary social media posts as a reason to accelerate the trial schedule. Judge Chutkan then called on Trumps defense attorney, John Lauro, who decided to launch into an angry screed.

We need adequate time to prepare. For the government to suggest I can do that in four months is an outrage," Lauro exclaimed. Lauro was getting louder, nearly yelling at this point, according to multiple reporters in the courtroom. "Mr Trump  President Trump  is entitled to a fair trial. This is a request for a show trial, not a speedy trial!"

Judge Chutkan urged Lauro to "take the temperature down a bit," but Lauro continued. Chutkan interjected again.

"Mr Lauro, as I said, lets take the temperature down... I understand Mr Trump is presumed innocent, as is every defendant... Lets not overlook the fact that Mr. Trump has considerable resources that every defendant does not usually have."

Lauro replied: "Never in the history of the United States have we seen a case of this magnitude go to trial in four months."

"I understand, Mr Lauro," Judge Chutkan responded. "But youre not going to get two more years. This is not going to trial in 2026."

The Ruling

After some more back and forth and a brief recess, Judge Chutkan set the trial date for March 4, 2024. She said she had already spoken to Judge Juan Merchan, overseeing the New York Hush Money case, and let him know that this case could bleed into his trial on March 25. Judge Chutkan said shell be watching for any efforts to "poison" the jury pool, clearly indicating if Trump continues to attack this process on social media, it will only continue to backfire legally.

Trumps lawyer John Lauro responded to the ruling with a statement that should concern Donald Trump: "We will certainly abide by your honors ruling, as we must. We will not be able to provide adequate representation... the trial date will deny President Trump the opportunity to have effective assistance of counsel."

The Impact

This March 4, 2024, trial date has legal and political ramifications. It adds yet another case Trumps lawyers will have to be prepared to contend with as Trump campaigns for president. The road to election day is paved with trials: The Trump Organization fraud trial is in October 2023; the second E Jean Carroll defamation trial is in January 2024; the Hush Money trial is currently scheduled for March 25, 2024; and the classified document trial is scheduled for May 20, 2024.

Politically, this trial date throws an enormous wrench into the GOP primary season. Just one day before Super Tuesday, one of the most important days in our democratic process, Donald Trump is set to go to trial for his attack on that same democratic process. One day before they hit the polls, voters will be reminded of January 6 and Trumps mountain of legal troubles. It may mobilize Trumps die-hard supporters, but it could also motivate Republican voters concerned about his electability to maybe vote for an alternative.

How will the public perceive this March 4, 2024 trial date? We already have some polling that gives us some clues. An August 25 Politico/Ipsos poll found that 59% of Americans feel the election subversion trial should happen before the GOP primary, and 61% feel this case should go to trial before the general election. Judge Chutkans date appears to be within the time frame Americans want.

A conviction for crimes this serious in the middle of the GOP primary could have unpredictable impacts. Republican voters might say now that they back Trump, but when the reality sets in, and if a conviction lands, they could behave differently. A lot can change in six months.

Georgia Hearing: Fulton County Election Subversion Case

The Hearing

No cameras or phones were allowed in this hearing, so we had to rely on reporters on the ground in Fulton County to relay developments from this hearing. In a shock to many, Meadows showed up and testified at length.

The crux of Mark Meadowss motion to move his Fulton County prosecution to federal court is an argument that the actions outlined in the indictment were part of his duties as Chief of Staff. He claimed that the meetings he organized and took part in, texts he sent, and an observation of an audit in Cobb County, Georgia, were just him performing his official duties as the Chief of Staff. According to Meadowss argument, this means that his Fulton County case should be prosecuted in federal court.

"I dont know that I did anything that was outside of my role as chief of staff," Meadows told the court.

Meadowss choice to testify came at a cost  his claims were met with tough cross-examination. The problem for Meadows is that his actions included alleged crimes, like the January 2, 2021, phone call to urge Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger to "find" 11,780 votes to overturn Bidens win. Prosecutor Anna Cross hammered this point in cross-examination. Meadows said he didnt know whether the Trump attorneys on the call were Trumps campaign attorneys or Trumps personal lawyers. The prosecutor asked Meadows why he wanted them on the call if he didnt know their roles. Judge Jones reportedly shook his head at his moment.

These actions were clearly not performed in a federal capacity; they were campaign activities in service of Donald Trumps corrupt scheme to overturn the 2020 election. If anything, these actions would violate the Hatch Act, which prohibits federal employees from participating in campaign activities in their official capacity. While on the stand, Meadows claimed the Hatch Act does apply to the Chief of Staff but that he didnt believe his actions violated it. DA Willis cited the Hatch Act in her court filings as a law showcasing that the kind of actions Meadows was taking were not permitted.

Mark Meadows seen in his police booking photo (FULTON COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE/A)

The defense rested its case, and the prosecution called Brad Raffensperger to testify. Raffensperger claimed that Meadowss efforts to reach him came long before the January 2 call, as far back as November 2020. Raffensperger said, Outreach to that extent was extraordinary. The prosecution played a clip of the January 2 call. Under questioning, Raffensperger noted that no DOJ or White House Counsel was on the call, stating, "I thought that it was a campaign call." That was devastating to Meadowss claims that his actions were performed as part of his official duties as Chief of Staff.

Key points from Trump's infamous Georgia call

After both sides issued their closing arguments and reaffirmed their fundamental arguments, the hearing ended with no ruling.

The Potential Ruling

Judge Jones did not issue a ruling from the bench on Monday evening, but he promised to deliberate and issue one "as fast as possible." Judge Jones reportedly said that Meadows must still appear for his newly scheduled September 6 arraignment, even if he doesnt issue a ruling by then on this motion to move the case to federal court.

The Potential Impact

If this approach, which is also being argued by several of Meadowss co-defendants, is agreed to by Judge Jones, then it would greatly benefit Meadows and could provide a path for similar motions to proceed. If this is moved to federal court, it would offer Meadows a larger jury pool, possible immunity from charges given his role in federal government, and no cameras in the courtroom. But his arguments were dubious at best. Well see if the Obama-appointed judge humors them.

If this motion is struck down, then Meadowss case will remain in state court. The ruling could be seen as a bellwether case to other co-defendants. It could dissuade them from pursuing this motion further and prove to be an indicator of how future motions will be ruled on.

Two of Trumps attorneys were reportedly in the courtroom listening to the hearing. They will be awaiting this ruling with bated breath to decide what Donald Trump should do next.
Pharmaceutical services firm Hvivo, formerly Open Orphan, has announced plans to open a larger facility in response to the companys growing order book.

Hvivo focuses on advancing research in infectious and respiratory diseases.

The new facility will be located in Canary Wharf, with the expansion largely funded by Hvivo client looking to accelerate their studies.

The specialised facility will support the company in conducting more challenge trials concurrently, Hvivo reported.

It will contain quarantine bedrooms, advanced laboratories, an outpatient unit and corporate offices across two floors.

The facility will contain 50 quarantine bedrooms. This number could grow to 70 beds in the future.

The new laboratories will also increase sample throughput, expanding Hvivos capacity to work with a broader range of pathogens.

The companys existing Whitechapel and Queen Mary Bioenterprises Centre clinics will shut next year but will remain open until the new facility is completed.

The first phase of the facility is expected to be completed in the first three months of next year. It is expected to be fully operational by the second quarter of the year.

Hvivo said consolidating its operations into a single location will lead to improved operational efficiencies, which will enhance profit margins.

The new facility will feature increased capacity and offer the potential for up to 70 quarantine beds, which will enable us to increase the capacity for the company to generate revenues, chief executive Yamin Khan said.

The new facility will also allow us to conduct a greater number of trials concurrently across various challenge models enabling the company to maintain a higher level of capacity throughout the year, he added.
Twitter, now known as X, paid 12.7m in redundancy costs to Irish staff

Twitters Irish arm has warned that there may be a material impairment to the carrying value of the 6.5bn of intellectual property on its books following a group level assessment after Elon Musks purchase and subsequent restructuring of the social media platform last year.

Newly-filed accounts for Twitters Irish division for 2021 also reveal that it paid 12.7m in redundancy costs to staff in 2022 after Mr Musk initiated a group-wide cull when he bought the business for $44bn (43bn) last year.

The company, now known as X, employed about 325 people at the end of 2021. It confirmed soon after Mr Musk bought Twitter that 140 people at its Dublin base were being laid off.

While an impairment assessment has been performed at a group level, based on a consolidated group forecast, a detailed forecast at the company level has not yet been prepared, according to a note for the Irish accounts when they were signed off in May this year.

It adds: However, as a result of the impairment indictors identified, there may be a material impairment of the IP [Intellectual Property] carrying value on the companys balance sheet in the period subsequent to the year end.

The accounts point out that since the restructuring initiated by Mr Musk, the company has observed impairment indicators in the carrying value of its intellectual property asset.

These comprise a reduction in revenue and Ebitda [earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation] along with the use of a revised discount rate to calculate the value of these assets, they add, pointing out that a material impairment of the goodwill and intangible assets has already been recorded in the consolidated group accounts.

Additionally, note the accounts, the same impairment indicators identified above may give rise to a material impairment of the carrying value of the deferred tax asset risk in the period subsequent to the year-end date.

The accounts show that Twitter International Unlimited had 7.9bn of intellectual property on its books at the beginning of 2021. Accumulated amortisation of that intellectual property was 795m at the start of 2021, with an additional 530m charge incurred during that year. That gave the Irish units intellectual property holdings a net book value of just under 6.6bn at the end of 2021.

Many US companies transfer their intellectual property to Ireland to avail of tax benefits.

The accounts also show that the Irish arm registered a 71.1m tax prepayment in respect of the sale of its mobile ad platform, Mopub, to AppLovin for just over $1bn.

While the actual disposal of the Mopub business didnt complete until January 2022, for tax purposes, the gain from the sale was taxable in the 2021 financial year. Twitter made a 349m gain from the sale.

The company also paid a 201m dividend to it immediate US parent firm in February 2022.

The highest profile departure from Twitters Irish unit last year was that of well-respected executive Sinead McSweeney. She was Twitters global vice president for public policy. She secured a High Court injunction preventing Twitter from officially firing her and was reinstated in her job, but didnt get all the assurances she had sought. She and Twitter later settled the case.
Measures wont be in force until 2024  14 years after issue first emerged

Labours Ged Nash said it 'beggars belief' it will take so long to put the new rules in place. Photo: Tom Burke

The Central Bank has been accused of foot-dragging after it emerged that new banker rules to ensure there is no repeat of the tracker-mortgage scandal will not be fully implemented for another year.

The new rules are designed to hold individuals in banks and other financial firms personally responsible for their conduct.

Legislation underpinning what is known as the senior executive accountability regime (SEAR) was passed by the Oireachtas last March.

But the Central Bank has admitted it will be next July before it fully implements these new regulations. This is 14 years after details about the tracker scandal first emerged in the Irish Independent.

SEAR is designed to break the link in the current rules between companies and individuals.

Under the current regime, Central Bank regulators must first find that a financial firm committed a regulatory breach before going after any people involved.

Usually that step never occurs and it is only companies that are subject to enforcement action.

The planned changes are similar to those already in place in the UK, which places obligations on customer-facing firms and senior individuals in them to set out clearly where responsibility and decision-making lies.

The planned changes also include enhancements to the existing fitness and probity regime to ensure it operates more effectively.

Asked when the new regime will be implemented, the Central Bank said it launched a three-month consultation process in March this year on how it would implement the new rules on individual accountability.

This consultation has now closed. We are currently reviewing the comments received and we will publish these comments and a feedback statement on the banks website in due course, it said.

The legislation was passed in March, but the new SEAR regime cant come into operation until regulations are signed by the Central Bank.

The regulator said changes to the fitness and probity [regime] will come into effect [on] December 29 this year.

But it will be next summer before the SEAR regulations are signed and will apply.

The consultation paper proposes that SEAR regulations, prescribing responsibilities of different roles and requirements on firms to clearly set out allocation of those responsibilities and decision-making, are to apply to in-scope firms from July 1, 2024, the Central Bank said.

Labours finance spokesman Ged Nash said it beggars belief that it will take so long to put the new rules in place. Details of the tracker scandal first emerged in this newspaper in 2009.

The endless foot-dragging on the implementation of strict individual accountability rules shows no sign of ending, he said.

Why it will take until July 2024  well over a year after the enabling legislation was passed  for regulated firms to set out to the Central Bank who is responsible for what, and for the new SEAR rules to apply only from then at the earliest, beggars belief, Mr Nash said.

He said everyone in banks and other insurance companies knows that the new regime is on the way.

Switch your mortgage this year - Sinead Ryan

He said consumers have waited long enough for this system to be fully up and running.

However, an organisation that represent professionals who ensure the implementation of regulation and legislation in finance firms and banks said the delays were justified.

The Compliance Institute said the new rules are complex and it will take time to properly implement them. This means that, if anything, firms need more time before the SEAR regulations are operational.
Rural economy faces 4bn deficit as a result of milk price reduction

Dairy farmers have put a handbrake on buying and investing as the fall in milk price this year will wipe 2bn from their revenues, reducing spending in rural communities.

Almost half a billion has been wiped off dairy farm incomes in Cork alone, while Tipperary will lose almost a quarter of a billion in direct revenues, new figures from ICMSA show, with farmers pulling back from spending beyond the basics.

These counties have large processors and this is where the multiplier effect can bite even harder with so many indirect jobs depending on the dairy sector.

The knock-on impact, according to ICMSA, is farmer spending has now fallen dramatically as a result.

From concrete to shed suppliers, to milking equipment to farm machinery, the reports coming back is that dairy farmers have stopped buying and investing, said ICMSA President Pat McCormack.

Only the very basics are being purchased and this is going to have a dramatic impact on the local economy.

This, he said, is an astounding amount to lose from the rural economy due to how much farmers spend in their local communities as many local services and companies are dependent on their investment.

With an output multiplier of two for dairy, the total deficit from the Irish rural economy could be 4bn for 2023.

The figures looked at the 26 counties to establish the reduction in revenues earned by dairy farmers over the last two years.

The analysis used an average milk price of 59c/L for 2022 and an expected average price of 37c/L for 2023, with production expected to fall by 2pc year-on-year given the weather and price conditions at present.

This means almost 38pc of dairy revenues have been wiped away in the space of 12 months and this analysis does not include the very severe cost elements facing dairy farmers, meaning dairy farm incomes will be severely hit in 2023, he said.

While fertiliser has reduced somewhat, most fertiliser was purchased early in the year or last year at inflated prices and, unfortunately, electricity and feed remain stubbornly high.
How these solar fences can be a game-changer for farmers

Dual-sided vertically installed panels can slash electricity bills by providing peak power at morning and evening milking time  and they take up less space than conventional panels

David Foran (right) on his Waterford dairy farm with Gene Hourihane of Sunstream Energy Solutions, who installed the solar fence

Margaret Donnelly Tue 29 Aug 2023 at 01:00

When an electricity bill of 1,500 was landing every two months in 2015, Waterford dairy farm partnership of brothers David and Eamonn Foran decided it was time to look into alternative energy sources.
The latest forestry statistics from the Department of Agriculture show that 232 non-farmers were responsible for 1,754ha of afforestation last year, compared to 76 farmers planting 520ha

Farmer participation in forestry planting is key if Ireland is to meet its 8,000ha per annum targets, but numbers have fallen significantly since 2014, a new report on the sector shows.

While 82pc of the forests afforested since 1980 have been planted by farmers, with 95pc of forestry being planted in 2014 carried out by farmers, this number has fallen since 2015 when non-farmers became eligible for the same duration of premium payments.
Hundreds of secondary school students in Ireland and the UK have experienced sexual harassment by a teacher, a new survey shows.

The report is the first of its kind, giving an insight into the inappropriate comments, unwelcome touching and sexist remarks that teenage, predominantly female students have received, mostly from male teachers.

Some shared how they were asked on dates by their teacher as students, while others told how they were touched inappropriately, called a naughty girl by their teachers or were forced to withdraw from activities due to the incident.

All 593 respondents  including 224 Irish people  took part in the survey because they had experienced some form of sexual harassment or misconduct by a teacher during their time in secondary school. All those who questioned were over the age of 18 by the time they took part in the survey.

It was carried out by the University of Greenwich with support from University of Galway, Massey University, and Brighton and Sussex Medical School and collected anecdotal experiences of misconduct in post-primary schools.

Some 86pc of Irish students experienced sexist harassment by a teacher, while 72pc experienced sexual harassment  including making comments about a student or their sexual activity, and attempting to discuss sexual matters with a student.

New study looks at teacher perpetrated sexual misconduct in post-primary schools in Ireland

There were numerous reports of unwanted touching by teachers amongst Irish respondents, with one student telling how a teacher took her to a private location and lifted up her shirt to rub my breast and nipple to help regulate my breathing.

One Irish respondent said that when she was 14, a teacher used to always say that if I wasnt his student things would be very different between us while another recalled that when she was 17, a male teacher attempted to kiss her at a social event.

"When dancing, he grabbed my ass and then tried to kiss me. I ran off to my friends, and we laughed about it. Later he licked my neck when we were all drinking shots at a table. At the time I thought it was a joke, but I was 17. It was horrible, and I still think about it, and it makes my skin crawl, the student said.

Another said: A teacher rubbed my thigh while I was sat on a table waiting for class to end the same day when Id asked to go to the bathroom in class hed asked if I needed any assistance with anything in there and then winked.

Others reported teachers making inappropriate comments, with one admitting she thought it was so cool when she was a young teenager and he was the good-looking teacher in school.

One reported that during her time in secondary school, a male teacher commented on my spending time with an older male student at break time, implying I was getting a reputation for myself and also made it clear it was being discussed in the staff room.

Another said: A male teacher said he had heard Id been a naughty girl at the weekend and that he wouldnt mind seeing that side (sic) of me.

Around half of Irish respondents said the sexual harassment that they experienced had a negative impact on their participation in school or extra-curricular events.

Some purposely missed classes to avoid the teacher in question, with others withdrawing from their interests totally.

One former student said she chose not to pursue the topic that the teacher in question taught, despite being good at it.

I chose not to study the topic in college because of his behaviour and my desire to distance myself from the memories, she said. Now as an adult, I wonder how my life would be had I studied a subject I had a natural talent for and enjoyed, I could have had a great career in that area.

Another added: Despite wanting to compete and being very good, I avoided further events because of the fear it would happen again. And as a subtle gesture to let the teacher know I was not happy about it.

One respondent said teacher-student sexual harassment was rife and those who reported it were told they were too sensitive and kicking up a fuss would bring them down on us harder.

There were no indications in the survey responses that formal complaints were brought to the gardai and few reported the incidents to the school.

For those few who reported the incident to the school, nothing was done about it, the survey found.

Some reports were believed though the teacher in question remained in their position at the school.

One respondent said they were removed from their position on their team when they brought the incident to the attention of the school due to spreading inflammatory and rude information about a staff member.

Sexist comments from teachers were also revealed by a number of Irish respondents, with one adding: I have very bad periods and presented my male PE teacher (in 2017) with a note to excuse my participation. He made a snide remark and said having lady issues was no reason to not do PE and that it helps with cramps.

Another said: The female deputy head used to measure the length of our skirts and said they had to be a certain length out of respect for male members of staff.

The lead author of the survey, Kate Dawson, a lecturer in Psychology at the University of Greenwich, said the findings of the survey show some teachers need specific training regarding what constitutes appropriate and inappropriate behaviour.

Reporting mechanisms also need to be put in place that enable students, or concerned school staff, to report misconduct without fear of repercussions. These preliminary findings need to be investigated further within a larger sample to find out how prevalent this issue is in UK and Irish schools, she said.

Almost 90pc of the respondents were young women, who reported being sexual harassed on at least one occasion by a male teacher in their school, and almost all these instances took place on school grounds, the report said. Some 90pc of the teachers involved were male, 8pc were female, while 2pc experienced harassment from both a male and female teacher or one whose gender they did not state.
Those found guilty of violent crimes in the UK will be made listen to victim impact statements in court after a man who murdered his Irish girlfriend and her unborn baby did not attend as he was sick.

Liam Taylor (37) said he was too sick to stand in the dock as a 27-year sentence was handed down last week for the murder of pregnant Ailish Walsh in a frenzied scissors attack in their London flat.

There was a similar issue in the Lucy Letby case after she refused to face the families of her victims after she was found guilty.

Taylor, meanwhile, heard the sentencing at the Old Bailey in London via video link from Belmarsh prison.

The UK Government is now expected to change the law, to compel those found guilty of violent crimes and murder to stand in court and listen to the victim impact statements of those who have lost their loved ones.

Taylor stabbed Ailish Walsh 40 times at her home in Rectory Road, Stoke Newington, north London, on December 15 last year.

Earlier this week, Taylor was jailed for 27 years. However, Taylor did not face his victims family in court and instead attended the sentence hearing via video link.

The court had heard how he slashed the mother-of-four a dozen times to her face, including her eye.

Some of the stab wounds were directed at the 22 week old foetus and his partner's genitals because Taylor had two daughters and wanted a son, the Old Bailey heard.

He also battered her around the head with a 15kg dumbbell.

Prosecutor Jane Osborne said: Ailish had told more than one person that the defendant was upset about the pregnancy because he wanted a boy.

"Some of the injuries were deliberately aimed at the unborn child.

Ms Walsh, 28  originally from Dublin - had been trying to break up with Taylor because she thought he was seeing another woman and had found him taking cocaine.

She was 22 weeks pregnant with Taylor's child at the time of her death.

Taylor, who went out to buy rum, coke and cigarettes after the killing told police that wont bring her back though will it, when he was arrested.

He added: Its crazy how one moment of madness can change your whole life.

Ms Walsh had four children aged between six and 10 from a previous marriage in Ireland.

Taylor was jailed for a year in 2020 for beating his mother in the head and face with a metal pole.

Passing sentence Judge Nigel Lickley told Taylor over the video link: You assaulted Ailish with a ferocious, brutal and savage attack.

You used a weapon and targeted parts of her face, abdomen and genitals with the intention to disfigure her.

The attack had elements, which I find sadistic in nature.

The judge added: I have to distinguish between genuine remorse and feeling sorry for yourself.

Attending in person might have indicated real remorse.

Members of the victim's family hurled abuse at Taylor as they left court.

Ms Walshs father Laurence Goulding said in a victim impact statement summarised to court how difficult it was to have to bury his daughter, and that he is angry she is gone.

He said he felt isolated as he has a terminal illness and Ailish had been his carer before her death.

Matthew Perry, the father of Ms Walsh's young children, called Taylor a f**king scumbag in an impact statement he gave from the witness box.

You have subjected innocent children to a lifetime of asking questions, he said.

"No person deserves to be subjected to that torture. You are worse than a monster. Untold devastation has been inflicted by you on our family.

My children are terrified that one day you will be given the opportunity to leave prison.

Mr Perry added that Ms Walsh was kind smart, caring and willing to give anyone a chance including you, you f**king scumbag.

The prosecution argued Taylor intended to kill the unborn baby but did not bring a charge of child destruction as the baby was within the legal limit for abortion and would not have survived outside the womb.

Taylor, previously of Rectory Road, Stoke Newington, admitted murder.

His barrister said Taylor he had not attended court because he was not feeling extremely well but he was listening to every word on the court video

Ailishs sister Siobhan OConnor said no amount of prison time is good enough for what he done and put Ailish and her baby through.

This is the face of Liam Taylor, the woman and baby-killing, murdering low-life animal who was sentenced to life in prison, she said.

[He] deserves so much more... I can only hope he will get his real justice dished out in prison.

Siobhan said Taylor was responsible for inflicting the most horrific injuries its actually hard to comprehend how someone could do that [to] another person.

She added: Specifically targeting her unborn baby daughter. No words can ever make sense of this utter shocking and barbaric violence.

No decent person could understand the deranged mind set of a cowardly woman and baby killer like Liam Taylor.

I pray he never gets the opportunity to hurt another woman or child again and for the 27 years, and hopefully longer, this will be the case.

Hopefully his face will be remembered everywhere he goes and his evil actions follow him until the day he dies, and hopefully he dies with as much pain as he has inflicted.

Rest in peace, Ailish.
TV licence sales plummeted 1m after RTE announced presenter Ryan Tubridy would not be returning to the airwaves.

Sales and renewals have been falling off a cliff for weeks following the revelations around the 345,000 worth of hidden payments to the presenter.

However, sales fell even further in the week after RTE boss Kevin Bakhurst announced talks about returning to air had collapsed with Mr Tubridy.

In the fourth week of August, only 8,615 TV licences were sold, a decrease of 40pc when compared to the same period last year.

This equals to 924,640 in revenue of the 160 charge.

The previous week, sales were down by 554,560, with a total of 3,466 fewer TV licences were sold compared to the same time in 2022.

TV licence sales for the fourth week in August were 8,615, said a spokesperson for the Department of Media.

The comparable figure for the same period in 2022 was 14,394.

Almost 6m of revenue has now been lost as a result of the crisis, with the latest figures bringing the loss to 5.94m.

It comes as the interim Mazars report into the controversial barter accounts used to make 75,000 payments to Mr Tubridy was published last week.

The report found there were no rules in place for paying for items using the barter account.

Meanwhile, a decision on how the TV licence will be reformed will be made by senior ministers early next year, according to Media Minister Catherine Martin.

The Government said it had paused RTE reform when the controversy surrounding 345,000 of undeclared payments broke in June.

The can was kicked down the road on the contentious 160 charge last year when the Government rejected the Future of Media Commissions recommendation to scrap the charge and fund it from the exchequer.

A special group of civil servants was set up to look at how the TV licence could be reformed instead and their recommendations were sent to the minister at the end of March.

Ms Martin said today she had shared the report with the heads of Government and relevant ministers. It had been planned to make a decision on reform of RTE before the summer but this was paused due to the controversy.

We paused that decision but the discussions will continue on that, she said

The first priority is the interim funding but I think discussions definitely have to continue in relation to the funding model. I had said that we would wait until the two external examinations are completed but I will engage with the leaders on that.

Ms Martin said the decision would probably be made early next year but any new laws that would be brought in would add a further delay.

RTE today laid out a scoping document for its register of interests for employees, where they will have to make returns to the ethics watchdog Sipo.

However, it was unlikely there would be a retrospective aspect to the register, according to Ms Martin.

The minister said she wanted sanctions for people who did not follow the rules of the register and that this needed to form part of discussions with unions and new RTE boss Kevin Bakhurst.

She added that he did not suggest a figure for a salary cap for top presenters when he met her last week and refused to say whether she had a figure in mind herself.
Sinead Kennedy and partner Andrea Paba and eight year old daughter Lucia at Dublin Airport this morning

The ongoing fallout from the technical issue with UK air traffic control is being felt in Dublin Airport today, with passengers finding their flights cancelled at the last minute or facing lengthy delays.

Chaos at airports in Ireland and across Europe is expected to continue today with further delays and cancellations ahead.

Technical issues with UK air traffic control has impacted flights going in and out of UK airspace and although the issues were resolved on Monday afternoon, resulting delays and cancellations will continue.

Over 150 flights in and out of Irish airports were either delayed or cancelled yesterday, impacting thousands of passengers.

So far, 20 flights entering or exiting Dublin Airport have been cancelled today, impacting flights to Liverpool, Naples, Verona, Riga, Cagliari, London Heathrow and London City.

At Dublin Airport this morning there were a number of affected passengers.

Some were angry that they only learned their flights were cancelled when they went to check-in, despite having checked their flights before they left home as advised by airport operator DAA.

We checked our flights last night and this morning, and we got up at 3am and travelled from Navan to get here for 5am, and the first time we knew there was a problem with our flight home to Sardinia was when we went to scan our boarding cards and discovered our flights were cancelled, said Sinead Kennedy from Navan.

If Ryanair had informed us earlier we would have stayed in my mothers house and worked it out from there, but instead we had to wait in a queue for four hours and re-book our flights, and now we have found out the next available flight is on Friday, she added.

Sinead has spent five weeks in Ireland with her partner Andrea Paba and their eight-year-old daughter Lucia.

They had been hoping to fly back to Sardinia this morning.

UK Air traffic control review ordered with flight disruptions to last for days

DAA has advised people to check with their airlines before flying, and Sinead and Andrea are annoyed that despite following that advice they still ended up travelling a long distance to the airport.

We will have to go back to my mothers house now, but at least we have somewhere to go, said Sinead.

Other people who are holidaying here will probably have to book hotels, added Andrea.

The flight we get on Friday will take us to the north of Sardinia and we will have to do a three-hour bus journey to get home. But we just had to take that offer.

"Im supposed to be back at work but now I will have to take extra time off and I dont know how that will work out. This glitch has shown how weak the systems can be, and how the effects can be so widespread. There should be a way around these problems, she added.

Anja Wohlers and her husband Andre Hoernschemeyer found themselves in Dublin by accident because of the air traffic glitch, and they were also finding it difficult to get out of.

Anja Wohlers and husband Andre Hoernschemeyer at Dublin Airport this morning

We had spent our holidays in the Highlands of Scotland and we were due to fly home to Hamburg from Edinburgh yesterday at 1.30pm, Anja explained.

We were at the airport and there were people shouting and threatening airport staff. It was very tense. We knew there was a problem with the computer system and we were waiting to see what would happen, but then our flight was cancelled at 5pm.

We didnt know what to do. There doesnt seem to be a Ryanair desk in Edinburgh airport, so we rang Ryanair in Germany and they said they could get us a flight to Cologne today but it would be from Dublin.

So we booked into a hotel and then flew to Dublin this morning, and now it looks like we will have to wait 12 hours for the flight to Cologne. If that flight goes on time we will arrive in Cologne at around 11pm tonight, and we will have to hire a car and drive for maybe four hours to get home. I will not fly again for ten years after this, she added.

The couple, from Bremen in Germany, are resigned to the fact they will just have to wait and go with the complex plan to get home.

In Scotland we hired an electric car because we are conscious of the environment, and now we find we are taking many flights to get home, said Anja.

It would have helped if we were told sooner by Ryanair that our flight was cancelled. This shows how fragile the whole computer system can be, and how it can affect many, many people in many countries, she added.

At Cork Airport, flights to Amsterdam, Zurich and Edinburgh have been cancelled, as have flights both to and from Manchester.

Speaking to the BBC, UK Transport Secretary Mark Harper said it would take days to resolve the widespread disruption to flights into and out of the country.

He said that government officials did not believe the technical issues were the result of a cybersecurity breach.

There is going to be some knock-on impact today and I suspect for another few days as airlines get their planes and get their services back to normal, he added.

Aer Lingus is advising customers to check the status of their flight before travelling to the airport.

While the UK National Air-Traffic Service (NATS) flight planning system is now resolved, like all airlines using UK airspace, we continue to face unavoidable cancellations and delays, they said.

We are doing everything possible to minimise any further disruption to our customers and we apologise to all those impacted for the inconvenience caused, which is due to circumstances outside of our control.

A spokesperson for Ryanair said: All affected passengers are notified of their full entitlements though email & SMS, including options to change flight (free of charge) or receive a full refund.

Ryanair is making every effort to ensure all affected passengers are cared for during this UK ATC failure.

"We apologise sincerely to customers for these cancellations and delays which are a direct result of UK ATC failure and are beyond our control. Our teams are working hard to minimise inconvenience to our passengers and urge customers to check the Ryanair app and their emails for latest flight updates.
Delays and cancellations are part and parcel of modern air travel. So what exactly are your rights if your flight is affected?

The rights of passengers in the event of cancelled or delayed flights are set out under EU Regulation 261/2014.

How do I know if my flights are affected?

In the event of a strike or cancellation, airlines should contact affected passengers by email or SMS.

You can also check the airline website (under the 'manage my booking' section), and your airport's online departures boards.

What are my rights if my flight is cancelled?

If your flight is cancelled for any reason, and regardless of when you are notified, your airline must offer you the choice between:

1) Re-routing as soon as possible, subject to availability, free of charge.

2) Re-routing at a later date.

3) A full refund within seven days.

How do I arrange a re-routing or refund?

In the event of a cancellation or delay, airlines are obliged to inform passengers of their options. If this happens at the airport, staff should be on hand to talk you through the various scenarios. Otherwise, the quickest option is to check your carrier's website (Aer Lingus and Ryanair). It should include the steps to process your own refunds or bookings.

Snow at Cork Airport during Storm Emma. Photo: Twitter/Cork Airport

Am I entitled to care and assistance?

If your flight is cancelled and you choose to be re-routed as soon as possible, then you are entitled to meals and refreshments, hotel accommodation and transfers between the airport and hotel as required. If the airline does not provide these, and you end up paying yourself, keep the receipts - you are entitled to a reimbursement of reasonable expenses.

NB. A five-star hotel may not be a reasonable expense!

Bear in mind that if your flight is cancelled and you choose a full refund, then the airline's obligations to you end there and then.

Am I entitled to compensation?

Financial compensation depends on the flight length and the reason for the cancellation. It differs to care and assistance obligations (as outlined above), and generally ranges from 250 (short-haul, less than 1,500km) to 600 (long-haul, over 3,500km).

Several scenarios can impact on compensation rights.

1) If you receive less than seven days notice of cancellation and choose to be re-routed as soon as possible (i.e. option 1 above), you will NOT be entitled to compensation - provided your new flights depart within one hour of the original departure and land within two hours of the original arrival.

2) If you receive between seven days and two weeks notice of cancellation, provided you choose to be re-routed and are facilitated with a new flight that departs no more than two hours before the original departure time and arrives no more than four hours after the original arrival time, you are NOT entitled to compensation.

3) If you receive notification of two weeks or more, you will NOT be entitled to compensation - provided, of course, that the airline offers full re-routing or refund options.

NB. If the air carrier can prove the cancellation was due to extraordinary circumstances, then you may NOT be entitled to compensation. However, you are still due a refund or re-routing.

flights

Is a strike an extraordinary circumstance?

That's the six million dollar question! Airlines may or may not claim them not be, depending on the circumstances involved. However, compensation claims are evaluated on a case-by-case basis - so if you believe you have a strong one, go ahead and make it.

Bad weather generally is considered an extraordinary circumstance.

How do I claim compensation?

Compensation claims are never evaluated or resolved at the airport. If you believe compensation is your due, then the first step is to formally contact the air carrier. If you're not satisfied with its response, then you can escalate by contacting the National Enforcement Body - which, in most cases for Irish passengers, is the Commission for Aviation Regulation (01 661-1700; flightrights.ie).

If my outbound flight is cancelled, what happens my return flight?

If a flight isn't subject to disruption, technically you are not entitled to any care or compensation. However, airlines do tend to take a logical view, and normally work with passengers to refund or reschedule flights impacted in this way.

Check its website for details.

What if my flight is delayed?

If your flight is delayed by more than five hours, and you choose not to travel, then you are entitled to a full refund. If you accept this refund, the airline is no longer obliged to provide onward travel or assistance.

If your flight is delayed by at least two hours (short-haul), three hours (European) or four hours (long haul), you are entitled to care and assistance as outlined above.

If you arrive at your destination more than three hours after the scheduled arrival time, you may be entitled to between 250 and 600 compensation, depending on the flight distance.

How can my travel insurance help?

In the event of a flight cancellation, the first source of refunds and re-routing should be with your airline (see above).

Standard travel insurance policies don't offer much help here, but 'missed departure' cover can help you secure a new flight, or an additional night's accommodation.

If your policy includes extra "travel disruption" cover, you should be covered for additional transport or accommodation costs up to around 1,000pp.

This covers most of scenarios with flight cancellations due to weather, strikes and so on, but note that it covers transport and accommodation-related expenses only - i.e. not lost annual leave, business opportunities or deposits, concert tickets or museum or attraction fees booked in advance online.

Is it too late to take out travel insurance?

Travel Disruption cover can be added retrospectively to a policy, but not to claim on an event that has already happened (or been forecast). There can also be a moratorium on travel disruption from the time you take out the policy to the time you will be covered (eg. seven days) - however, 'missed departure' cover should still apply.

What happens if my baggage is delayed or lost?

Travel insurance can cover claims of lost, delayed or damaged luggage, but air passengers also have rights under the Montreal Convention, including limited entitlements to compensation.

Some airlines offer a daily allowance for delayed bags, so it's worth asking about this. Compensation for lost or delayed bags is limited under the Convention to 1,000 SDRs (approx 1,270 on current conversion rates).

If your luggage fails to appear on the carousel, report the problem immediately with the airline and/or ground handler by filling out a Property Irregularity Report providing details of your bag (be sure to take a photo of the report).

While you wait for your bag, keep receipts for any essential items you have to buy. Most baggage will eventually be delivered, but luggage is considered lost 21 days after it was supposed to have arrived.

After the delay, you may want to claim on your travel insurance, or on the airline's liability through their reporting procedures - Ryanair's info is here, and Aer Lingus's here.

Given the pressure travel systems and airports are under at the moment, it may be worth avoiding the possibility of delayed or lost bags by using carry-on luggage only.

If you must check a bag, keep a record of its tag number (a photo is a good idea) and remember not to carry valuables or essential medicines and documents in your checked luggage.

Im nervous about travel. Can I get a refund?

No. If you cancel your holiday without the DFA (dfa.ie/travel) declaring travel to be unsafe, it could be deemed "disinclination to travel".

As such, you may have to pay a cancellation fee or forfeit some or all of the cost of your air fare or holiday package.

That said, it's worth noting that Irish tour operators have in the past worked to facilitate customers affected by exceptional events, so it's always worth a phone call.

Where can I find more information?

For full details on your air passenger rights in the event of cancellation, delays, downgrading and denied boarding, see www.flightrights.ie.

This article has been updated and republished.
In the innocent days of youth I stumbled across something I believed myself to be really good at, in line with what passed for career advice in those days. It was the holidays. Yes, dear reader, I believed I had All-Ireland medal-winning potential when it came to any kind of competition for doing sod-all day after day.
Crime writer Catherine Kirwan's advice to aspiring novellists: "Theres no right or wrong way, some people plan, some people make it up as they go along, you dont have to know in advance whats going to happen."

The murder takes place in the environs of the private dining room of the UCC President which is located in the East Wing of the university.

Cork author and solicitor Catherine Kirwan described herself as a repeat offender as she spoke about her participation in a recent festival dedicated to crime writing which was held on Spike Island, the former Cork harbour location for an infamous prison, as she was returning to the island to participate in a panel about murder mysteries.

However the author, who was born in Co. Waterford but now lives in Cork having studied law in UCC before working there as a solicitor, is also returning to the scene of the crime as it were as she was talking at the festival and to this newspaper about the third in a series of crime fiction novels involving Cork solicitor Finn Fitzpatrick.

This latest novel is set in UCC and the murder, which solicitor Finn is at the centre of, is discovered following a post conference dinner in the private dining room of the fictional UCC President which is attended by Finn. Indeed one of the motivations for Finns investigation is to clear her own name as she is a suspect in the killing.

"This is the third book Finn is in  but you dont have to have read the others in the series to read this one, or any of them really, as they all work as stand-alones too.

"This is Finn returning to her old college.

While criminals are reputed to return to the scene of their crime, this isnt really the case her as Catherine, like most graduates of UCC never saw the inside of the Presidents private dining room which is located in the East Wing of the old university building.

"I know its there and Ive climbed up and taken a look through the window but I just made it up really but I know theres a private dining room for the President in the East Wing so, once I knew that, I thought this is a place where you could have a dinner and that someone might die after it.

The mystery deepens after that and there will be no spoilers in this article.

Catherine is part of a very lively crime-writing scene in Cork at present. Herself, Catherine Ryan Howard, Tadhg Coakley, Amy Cronin, Michelle Dunne, who organises the Spike Island Crime Writing Festival, Kevin Doyle and Michelle McDonagh, author of Theres Something I Have To Tell You are among the prime suspects in the exploding crime writing scene in and around Cork city.

An avid reader with an appetite for many genres of literature, Catherine says she enjoys reading crime fiction herself.

"Its an escape from stress and thinking about all the stuff that goes on, she said.

"I find it relaxing because the thing about crime novels is that, usually, the plot is quite engrossing and you should be taken into the plot and the characters are engaging.

"If youre totally taken up by a crime fiction plot, you cant be thinking about the bad day or week youve had.

"Ive always read crime since I was a kid but I particularly got into it with the recent recession, since it hit in 2006 but it was 2008 before we began to notice it.

"By the time the IMF hit town, I was reading tonnes of crime novels, youd have a bad week, go to Waterstones on a Friday and buy a novel and youre guaranteed a good weekend. "

While crime fiction is probably the most dominant genre in bookshops, there are many styles of crime writing. One writer said recently that women readers seem to prefer character driven plots while men are more interested in action driven thrillers.

I like both really  I like novels that are fast moving and I also like books that are character driven  I think it just depends on the mood that Im in.

"I like reading a Jack Reacher book on occasion while other times Id like to read a book like Strange Sally Diamond by Liz Nugent which is character driven.

The quality of the book is what matters to Catherine as her taste is wide within crime writing and generally. What I look for in a book is how good is it  how much I enjoy it.

"Thats what I try and do with my own books  I do keep the reader in mind, I want the reader to enjoy the book, to be taken up by it and the best compliment for me is to hear someone say, I stayed up all night with your book, I got no sleep or I had a load of housework to do and I didnt do any of it or I missed my train- because of your book.

"For me, reading crime is an escape and writing crime is also an escape.

Shes still practising as a solicitor and she writes, when she writes, at the weekend or when shes on holidays.

"And by holidays, I mean my house.

Her number 1 tip to aspiring  or perspiring  writers. Just do it, give it a go because theres no right way of doing it, people find their own way.

"You just have to give yourself a chance  you could be walking around the place thinking of what you might do, or why you wouldnt be able to do it but the only way you can write is to sit down and give yourself the time and the chance to do it.

John Connolly, the great Irish thriller writer, said if all you have is three hours on a Sunday afternoon, use them,

"Theres no right or wrong way, some people plan, some people make it up as they go along, you dont have to know in advance whats going to happen.

"Just let it flow and see how it goes.

"If you feel like you want to write, give it a go, no-one is going to know if you fail or not except you and you might as well give yourself a go.
Students Dan and Juliet Hickey on their first day at Rathdown Senior School in Glenageary

Rathdown School in Glenageary, south Dublin, has finally welcomed boys to its Senior School for the first time.

The 50-year-old school is one of Irelands leading fee-paying day and boarding schools. It will be the first time in its history that the entire school will be open to both boys and girls.

Almost 33pc of first year students starting secondary level this year will be male, following on from last years successful transition to co-education at Junior School level.

Dermot Dix, Junior School Principal, said: Last years move to co-ed in the Junior School was a huge success and was endorsed as such in a survey conducted this past summer term with our parents.

We are all enormously excited to see the co-ed roll-out continue into our Senior School.

There has been unprecedented interest in places in the Senior School resulting in large numbers also joining the Junior School.

From opening in 1973, Brian Moore, Senior School Principal, said this would be a special year for the school.

Its a very important year as on the anniversary of our 50th year, we will welcome boys into the senior school for the very first time, he said.

This reflects our ethos and vision whereby we aspire to promote progressive and contemporary values that reflect those of modern Ireland.

Interest is higher than ever across both genders, with parents telling us that they want a mixture of sexes in classrooms.

The school, situated on 16 acres in Glenageary, welcomes day pupils to its Junior School, while the Senior School offers both a day and boarding option.

The school will host an open day for prospective students and their parents on Monday, September 18, from 3.30pm to 7.30pm. Tickets are available through Eventbrite.
Tralee's Niamh Furlong was one of those affected by the travel chaos in the UK this week.

Mondays air traffic control glitch in the UK left thousands of people in limbo, their flights either delayed significantly or worse, cancelled altogether.

The widespread disruption was caused by a failure of air traffic control systems.

Amongst those affected by the travel was Tralees Niamh Furlong whose flight to Cork from Manchester on Monday was cancelled after she had already gone through security.

She told The Kerryman on Tuesday about her experience.

I got through security no problem. I had seen there may be delays due to air traffic control issues but I didnt worry too much at the time, but after getting to duty free I saw my flight was cancelled, she said.

The service was very poor. Its completely understandable that it was entirely out of both the airport and airlines control but the way the situation was handled at Manchester airport was abysmal, she continued.

I began queuing at the information desk to see what my options were. I waited for half an hour when an announcement was made that asked that all people whose flights had been cancelled by Ryanair to proceed to the same gate. This caused chaos as there was hundreds of us all sent to this one gate, she added.

Going on, Niamh said that she queued here for almost an hour with absolutely no indication as to what was happening. She said that they were not given a reason as to why or what exactly they were queuing for.

This continued until they were then sent down a corridor back to arrivals. She added that no explanation was ever given to then about what to do.

It was boiling, people were shoved together and no food or water were provided, she said.

Eventually, Niamh said that she did get offered a free change of flight or refund she decided to opt to change her flight to yesterday (Tuesday) evening to Shannon airport instead.

But she said she still had to pay a lot of other expenses including, food, a hotel and taxis to and from the airport.. She said intends to reclaim these costs from Ryanair but that shes not confident of getting anything back towards this.

I feel terribly for the grief that Im sure the staff at UK airports received but it was the lack of information led to the chaos."

No one knew what to do and I feel they should have at least provided water for people queuing for near to 2 hours, all packed together. The situation could have gone a lot better with even small frequent updates being announced in the airport, she said.

Another couple who were affected by the disruptions were Darren McAlinden and his wife, Lisa, who reside in Abbeyfeale.

Speaking to The Kerryman on Tuesday afternoon, Darren - having left his hotel in London at 10am on Monday, was still not home and did not anticipate being home until at least 8 or 10pm on Tuesday evening, such was the disruption that the air traffic control glitch caused to the couples travel plans home from Stansted to Cork.

My wife and I were to fly to Cork from Stanstead yesterday (Monday) at 14.40 and wed already had a stressful morning with a tube delay and having to get an Uber to the airport, he said.

Once we got into departures we thought we could relax and get something to eat only to get a notification that our flight was cancelled on the Ryanair app, he added.

But this was only the beginning of their travel nightmare.

We were given the option to change our flight but unfortunately the Cork flight that evening was sold out and there was no scheduled flights to Farranfore. We didnt want to wait until the next day so we booked the flight to Shannon that evening (Monday) for quarter to 9, he explained.

Airports are stressful at the best of times and after 9 hours in a massively overcrowded Stansted - it was like Croke Park on All Ireland Final day - we were finally in the air but the next obstacle was getting my wife back to Abbeyfeale and myself to Cork Airport to collect our car.

Luckily for the couple, Darrens brother lives in Clare and was able to pick the couple up in Shannon. After they spent the night with him, Darrens wife was dropped home while he continued on to Limerick where he got the Green bus to Tralee...which was subsequently delayed, causing him to miss his connecting train to Cork.

Having finally made the train he still had to get a bus to the Airport and from there drive home, all going well.

The travel chaos began on Monday at the headquarters of the National Air Traffic Services (NATS) in the UK when its flight planning system failed.

NATS was unable to automatically process the flight plans which are submitted by airlines - meaning they had to be inputted manually, causing delays.

It has since been fixed but delays continue.
A plaque to mark the Bear River Massacre where 400 men, women and children of the Shoshone tribe were killed by the Army led by Kerry man Patrick O'Connor..

A photo of General Patrick Edward Connor (Patrick O'Connor) who was from Kerry and who led a massacre of Native American Indians in Idaho.

Jerry O'Sullivan with the statue to Patrick O'Connor from Kerry who led the largest massacre of native Indians. The Kenmare journalist has a new documentary on Spotify telling the story of the West Kerry man.

There is a certain romanticism about the Irish who fled to America and the belief that they all went on to live great and virtuous lives but there are others who fled Ireland and played a significant role in the dark history of the US.

Few, if any, have heard of west Kerry man Patrick OConnor who led his troops into the largest massacre of Native Americans in US history on January 29, 1863. Over 400 men, women and children of the North West Band of the Shoshone Nation were killed at Bear River, near what is today Preston, Idaho. OConnor led the California Volunteers who had been stationed at Port Douglas.

The eldest son of Thomas O'Connor and Mary Sullivan, he was born in 1820 in Ballyferriter and the family emigrated to the US in the 1830s when Patrick was 12 or 16 (1832 or 1836), bound for New York in pre-famine times.

But who was Patrick OConnor and what did he do? Award-winning journalist Jerry OSullivan from Kenmare has put together a documentary on the extraordinary story of this Kerry man to tell the tale of a darker side of our emigrant history.

Gloryhunter Kerry Indian Killer is now on Spotify and tells the chilling history of that fateful day and highlights the Kerry man behind the massacre of so many native Indians.

Jerry OSullivan, well-known presenter of Kerry Today, travelled to Salt Lake City in Utah to learn more about Mr OConnor and what his role was that day.

Speaking to historians as well as members of the Shonshone tribe, Jerry has a tale to tell that shines a new light on US and Irish history with a story he says must be told.

"For many Irish-Americans, history has a romanticism about it, the tired and poor huddled masses who left for American and rose up and out of the tenements of New York. What is less celebrated is the dark side of that story, like the actions of OConnor, says Jerry.

While many massacres of that era did make world-wide headlines, the story of Bear River went largely unspoken, partly because it was so bad it was not commemorated later. In fact, it took some time for its description to be changed from a battle to a massacre via Congress.

In fact, the land on which the bloodbath occurred is now back in the hands of that tribe and there are plans for an interpretative centre.

"It was so bad that even the Mormons [the established group there at the time] did not talk about it and Mr OConnor was not treated as a hero. It was buried to an extent, explains Jerry.

On arrival in the US, Patrick OConnor epitomised the American Dream and truly believed in being an American first, in joining the army and making a fortune in the gold rush. Anyone who got in the way of that dream for Patrick should be removed and that included native Americans. He too despised the Mormons seeing them as anti-American

Jerry first came across the story of Patrick OConnor who changed his name P Edward Connor  he later became General Patrick Edward Connor of the US Army  when researching the controversy surrounding the removal of statues in 2017.

Jerry went in search of Irish with links to atrocities like the slave trade when he came across Mr OConnor and began researching  a difficult task given the lack of information on the Bear River Battle now the Bear River Massacre  but when he did he found that Mr OConnor had led his troops into this chilling battle, commanding them to kill all.

"It had emerged this was not a fair fight, it was an out and out massacre and a story that had to be told, said Jerry.

He got funding from the Sound and Vision broadcasting fund in 2020 but, due to the Covid pandemic, the documentary had to be put on hold. In June of this year Jerry travelled to Salt Lake City in Utah to finalise his research and speak with historians with a wealth of knowledge on the story.

Jerry visited the statue of Mr OConnor in place in a military cemetery, having been moved quietly from a more prominent position on the University of Utah grounds. The plaque is dedicated to him and the battle and how he was the father of Utah mining but not what he had done to the native Americans in that battle.

Now the story is being told by Jerry through Gloryhunter Kerry Indian Killer. The fascinating documentary aired on Radio Kerry during the August Bank Holiday Weekend and is now on Spotify.
One of Tara's Baked Bouquets which was used as a centrepice at the Rose of Tralee

Tara Tangney with one of her bespoke baked bouquests which she delivered to the Rose of Tralee festival

Co Louth native Tara Tangney whose baked bouquets were specially commissioned for the Rose of Tralee

A rose by any other name can be a cupcake! That is if the baker behind the edible rose bouquets that formed the centrepieces for the Rose of Tralee festival in towns Meadowlands Hotel is Co Louth native Tara Tangley.

Tara, who grew up beside St Brigids Shrine in Faughart, north Louth, has her own company Taras Baked Bouquets in Killarney and was delighted to get the commission for the edible centrepieces for this years Rose of Tralee festival.

A graduate of Culinary Arts at DkIT, Tara says she got her love of baking from her paternal granny May Callan, from Ravensdale Park

"She had all these recipes and then my Mom got them and did the Christmas cakes and puddings for all the family. She was definitely a big influence.

Her passion for cakes and buttercream began thanks to a pastry lecturer at DkIT and after graduating she worked with leading pastry chefs at different establishments in Cork and Limerick, before making Killarney her home.

Married with three teenage children, she set up Tara's Baked Bouquets three years ago and its now a flourishing bakery business nestled in the heart of Killarney.

Ive got a production kitchen which I did myself out behind the house as it means that I can work and still be close to the family

She decided to specialise in making cupcakes that combine culinary artistry and floral elegance and as the business flourished, applied to be one of the suppliers for this years Rose of Tralee International Festival.

"This was the first time I had applied to cater for a corporate event so I was delighted and hopefully it will be the first of many. This time three years ago, if you told me Id be doing the Rose of Tralee, Id be pinching myself.

As the festival got underway in the prestigious Meadowlands Hotel, home for the Roses for the duration of the festival, the culinary artisans at Tara's Baked Bouquets were hard at work creating the cupcake bouquets that were not only a treat for the eyes but also a delight for the palate.

The artistic endeavour required no less than three dozen eggs and a staggering 20 lbs of Kerry Gold Butter to fulfil the order, a testament to the dedication and attention to detail that the bakery pours into its creations.

"As an Irish festival that celebrates grace and beauty, the Rose of Tralee was the perfect stage for our floral cupcake bouquets," said Tara.. "We aimed to weave together nature's splendour and culinary finesse, and the reception from festival-goers has been overwhelming. It was truly a privilege to be included."
Students from Gorey Community School who received over 600 points in their Leaving Certificate. (l to r)- Michael Finn (Principal), Rose Martin (Year Head), Ava Doran, Grace Ivanoff, Jennifer O'Gorman, Joe Doyle, Stella Kehoe (Deputy Principal). Missing from photo were Antoni Stepien, Remi Laloy and Andy Yu. Pic: Jim Campbell

Danny Kenny after receiving his leaving certificate results in Gorey Community School on Friday pictured with his first cousin and teacher Laura Ni Bhiorna. Pic: Jim Campbell

PJ Doyle over the moon after receiving his leaving certificate results online on Friday pictured with his dad Philip Doyle and school Chaplin Mary Redmond in Gorey Community School on Friday. Pic: Jim Campbell

Gorey Community School enjoyed a bumper harvest of great Leaving Cert results this year, with most students delighted that all the hard work paid off.

Principal Michael Finn and the staff hosted an hour-long reception for the Sixth Year students on Friday as the Leaving Cert results emerged, with Guidance Counsellors on hand to dispense advice.

There were butterflies in the stomach for many as they opened their results, said Principal Finn. As I said to the incoming Sixth Years this morning, that regardless of what record the school has for excellent results, I always still have a bit of a sleepless night the night beforehand, so I dont know how the students were feeling. But on the Friday morning, we were absolutely delighted. It was the usual high standard, he said.

Gorey Community Schools diverse student body includes 270 students receiving their LC results. We had a very large number who had over 500 points, he said.

Forty one students achieved over 500 points, and of that 41, four students achieved the maximum of 625 points. Seven students achieved over 600 students in the school.

We had a Leaving Cert Applied class as well, and we had a large number of students who got merits and distinctions. As I said to the children, its not just about the 625 points or the 500 points, its also about the kids achieving their potential and getting the grades that reflect their ability. The results are outstanding every year, said Mr Finn.

However, there were concerns about students getting results online at home. I know they might be getting them with their families, or is some cases on their own. But whether you do really well, or dont do as well as well youd hoped, theres a huge anti-climax there when youre doing it on your own, or just with your immediate family, said Principal Finn.

Students and parents were invited in to discuss the results with teachers in the Quad and celebrate with friends. For students who were disappointed, there was professional advice on further options. The next big day is Wednesday, August 30, when the CAO offers are made public, but counselling support continues on in to September, added Mr Finn.
Having been the source of intense speculation in the village of Duncormick in recent weeks, its now been confirmed that the old Scavilles Lodge building, which has sat idle for some nine years now, is to be brought back into life to house Ukrainian refugees.

In recent weeks, with the building having seen signs of activity, speculation began in earnest online, much of it with a somewhat sinister undertone. However, its now been confirmed that the building is set to host up to 51 refugees, the majority of whom are expected to be Ukrainian women and children.

Having sought some answers himself, local councillor Jim Codd was disappointed by the reaction of a vocal minority to the news. However, he feels there was a certain amount of inevitability about it due to a continued poor communication around refugee centres.

"Firstly, Id say this situation has been mismanaged, he said. There was no communication with the people of Duncormick at all. I think the people of South Wexford generally feel only sympathy with those fleeing war-torn areas.

"However, the government need to take responsibility and step up. There are so many people cannot get on doctors lists and cant get access to dentists and things of that nature. This leads to frustration in communities and sadly it gives opportunity to certain elements to take advantage and use unfortunate, frightened people to gain political traction.

"Theres an awful lot of horrible, hate-driven stuff online. You have some clowns claiming to be of a republican perspective. I can tell you, theres a very proud history of republicanism in Wexford that rose to fight a superpower for justice and the rights of downtrodden people. I dont want to see that tarnished by these people who are looking to whip up a mob against frightened women and children.

"Its my understanding that it will be predominantly Ukrainian women and children moving in in the coming weeks.

Cllr Codd noted that the building in question has been vacant for a long time and that at least it will now be inhabited and it will bring money into the community.

He did, however, question the wisdom of placing refugees in areas that are poorly resourced.

"Its only giving oxygen to these far-right, hate-driven elements, he said. It is difficult as a local representative when parents are ringing up saying that they cant get their kids a place on a bus to school, but the area is taking in more people. I think its fair enough to ask how many of our Ministers and TDs that make these decisions are taking refugees into their leafy suburbs.

The Aontu councillor also resents that homelessness is being weaponised by a certain element online as they verbally attack refugee centres.

"Many of the people jumping up and down to stop refugees coming into our communities seem to be using Irish homelessness figures as support for their argument, he said. Id be really interested to see how involved with St Vincent de Paul and other charitable organisations they are. Ive spent decades working with St Vincent de Paul and I can tell you Ive never come across them.

"All this online rubbish needs to be curtailed, he concluded. Its a very strange brand of Republicanism and Christianity that would fire up a mob against people fleeing a warzone.

"Id also like to stress that Ive been contacted by a great number of people who are very welcoming of these people and are looking to find out if they can help in any way.
Chadwick Bosemans suave flare remembered on third anniversary of his death (PA)

Lupita Nyongo has remembered the joy she shared with her Black Panther co-star Chadwick Boseman on the third anniversary of his death.

The actress said the pain and profound confusion she had experienced following Bosemans death had taken months to recover from.

Boseman, who played King TChalla in the original 2018 film Black Panther, died from colon cancer at the age of 43, on August 28, 2020.

Earlier this year it was announced he would be posthumously honoured on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in the category of motion pictures as part of the class of 2024.

Posting a black and white picture of him on Instagram, Nyongo wrote: Three years ago today, I experienced a singular pain at the news of @chadwickbosemans death.

The confusion was so profound that it took months to trust the feeling of joy again.

This is a photo I took on film at the airport as we arrived in South Korea in 2018. We had just learned to do the baby heart with our fingers.

Here Chadwick was adding his suave flare. We spent a glorious 72 hours there, and the memory fills me with so much joy.

She added: Death is hard to understand, maybe even harder to accept. But the love generated from the life he lived will fuel every anniversary marking his absence.

Chadwick may no longer be in our photos, but he will always be in our hearts.

The Chadwick Boseman Foundation aims to continue the actors legacy by encouraging, supporting and promoting the intellectual, spiritual and artistic growth of young people of the African Diaspora.
'We'll do whatever it takes to ensure we stop the boats,' Suella Braverman said. Photo: Peter Byrne/PA Wire

British Home Secretary Suella Braverman has attacked European judges as politicised and interventionist by treading on UK national sovereignty as she refused to rule out the prospect of Britain leaving the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR).

She said the government would do whatever it takes to stop the boats when asked if the UK would leave the ECHR should the Supreme Court and Strasbourg judges continue to thwart its policy of deporting asylum seekers to Rwanda.
France bans Muslim robes at school in latest move to keep religion out of class

Abayas no longer permitted from start of school year  but critics say the garment is nothing more than a fashion item

A model wearing an abaya - French education minister Gabriel Attal said the garments were 'an infringement on secularism'. Photo: Ahmed Yosri/Reuters

Elaine Ganley Tue 29 Aug 2023 at 01:30







France has banned long robes in classrooms starting in the new school year, saying the garments, known as abayas, worn mainly by Muslims, are testing secularism in the nations schools.
Latest | Irishman (34) found dead at hotel in San Antonio on Spanish island of Ibiza

Alarm was raised just before 4pm but the tourist was pronounced dead by emergency responders at the scene

Ibiza. Stock photo

Gerard Couzens Tue 29 Aug 2023 at 14:48







An Irish holidaymaker has been found dead at his hotel room in the party resort of San Antonio on the Spanish island of Ibiza.
Mohammed al-Ghamdi (54) was sentenced to death for criticising the ruling family in messages to his nine social media followers.

A Saudi court has sentenced a retired teacher to death for criticising the ruling family in messages to his nine social media followers.

According to Human Rights Watch, Mohammed al-Ghamdi (54) was sentenced to death on July 10 for various offences related to his activity on YouTube and X, formerly known as Twitter.
Judge rejects plea to delay Donald Trumps election subversion trial until after 2024 White House election

Case set to begin on March 4 next year  despite objections by former US presidents lawyers

An anti-Trump protester waves a placard outside a Washington court where a judge was setting a hearing date of March 6, 2024, for the latest Trump trial. Photo: Jonathan Ernst/Reuters

Eric Tucker Tue 29 Aug 2023 at 01:30







A federal judge has refused Donald Trumps request to delay a trial for years on charges of trying to overturn the results of the 2020 election  setting March 4, 2024, as the date the case will now begin.
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Photo Courtesy: Pixabay

Amazon has made it compulsory for its employees to work from the office three days a week. However, the new rule has not gone well with most of the employees and a chunk of the workers exited the company instead of returning to office, media reports said.

The company has issued a stern warning to the workers who have refused to adopt the new mode.

CEO Andy Jassy has sent out a strong message for employees who don't want to go back to the office: "It's not going to work out for you."

Insider reported that Jassy conveyed this during a meeting earlier in August.

Amazon tried to transition to a hybrid mode of working from work from home in May as the coronavirus protocols eased across the world. It asked the employees to work from their respective offices three days a week.

Most of the employees did not like the change and even went as far as starting a petition and organising a protest walkout. However, Amazon has not changed its decision despite opposition from the workers.

Insider accessed a recording of the meeting where Jassy communicated directly to workers. He maintained that the employees must put aside disagreements and fully commit to the decision, adding that Amazon might not be the right place for unwilling employees.

Jassy said, "We are going back to the office at least three days a week."

According to reports, Jassy underscored that the return to office was a "judgment call." He clearly stated that if some employees don't wish to go by this, they have the choice to exit the company.

He stressed that it's not right that some team members come to the office three days a week while others dont show up.

Amazon is yet to make a statement about Jassys strongly worded email surfaced to the employees.

Currently, Amazon is dealing with layoffs while also taking an uncompromising stance against employees reluctant to return to office.

In July, leaked messages indicated that Amazon might push for "voluntary resignation" from employees who are opposing the companys decision to relocate to the in-person hubs where their teams work.

Certain employees have also chosen to leave the company voluntarily. Additionally, the company has initiated the practice of issuing warnings to employees concerning their physical presence at the workplace, highlighted the Insider report.
Image Courtesy: twitter.com/DamienOConnorMP

New Delhi: India and New Zealand are actively considering the implementation of the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) in the island nation to enhance the ease of conducting business, trade, and tourism interactions between the two countries, the Commerce Ministry said on Tuesday.

Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal and New Zealands Minister for Trade and Export Growth Damien OConnor discussed the issue on Monday during a bilateral meeting.

This meeting is part of a sustained effort by both governments to develop a broad-based relationship, building on the excellent meeting between the Prime Ministers of both the countries in Port Moresby on 22 May 2023, a joint statement issued by India and New Zealand read.

Thank you Minister @PiyushGoyal for the engaging and broad ranging discussion today. We have laid the groundwork for a strong economic partnership that supports both countries' development. pic.twitter.com/irt23rT3ga  Damien O'Connor (@DamienOConnorMP) August 28, 2023

The two sides acknowledged the joint effort to find a feasible alternative to allow the import of wooden logs from New Zealand.

Ministers welcomed the recent commencement of the export of Indian mangoes to New Zealand as well as the progress being made by New Zealand on Indias request for allowing two additional Vapour Heat Treatment facilities in India for the export of mangoes.

Ministers welcomed early discussions between the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) and Payments NZ regarding the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) system and agreed that both sides should continue deliberations on this issue. They agreed that the introduction of UPI in New Zealand would promote ease of doing business between both countries and promote trade and tourism as well.

In 2022, the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), the entity responsible for UPI services, entered into a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Lyra, France's efficient and secure online payment system. Continuing into 2023, UPI established a collaboration with PayNow, Singapore's payment solution, enabling users in both nations to conduct cross-border transactions seamlessly.

The adoption of the UPI payment system has already been successfully implemented in the United Arab Emirates, Bhutan, and Nepal. The NPCI International is actively engaged in discussions to expand UPI services to the United States, Europe, and the Western Asian region.

The two countries also discussed possible innovative technical collaboration in the field of agriculture and horticulture including Kiwi fruit; pharmaceuticals; processing, storage and transportation etc.

"Ministers acknowledged the desirability of improving air connectivity between New Zealand and India, and welcomed the finalisation of the MoU to further liberalise the bilateral Air Services Agreement between the two countries," it added.

India's exports to the island country rose to USD 548 million in 2022-23 from USD 487.6 million in 2021-22. Imports too have increased to USD 478 million in 2022-23 from USD 375 million in 2021-22.
Photo Courtesy: Pixabay

A serial burglar, who stole items of more than 800,000 pounds ($1,009,132) in value, was finally caught with the help of Apple AirTag which was kept in one of the stolen luggage.

Mari Dinjaku, 38, of Munro Avenue, Wokingham, was sentenced to six years imprisonment for conspiracy to commit burglary.

Dinjaku was arrested at his home address when an Apple AirTag left in the suitcase helped officers track it to the location, Surrey Police said in a statement.

Designer clothing and handbags and high-value jewellery were also found from his home, police said.

A search of the house also uncovered walkie-talkies docked in the utility room, false documents, a large amount of cash in several currencies, gloves and face coverings, and 15 mobile phones. One of these phones, which was forensically linked to Dinjaku, was in the area of the Woking burglary at the time of the offence.

Dinjaku was also forensically linked to two vehicles near his home address, both of which had cloned number plates. One of these vehicles was connected to a second burglary in Farnham in December 2022.

At this burglary, a car was stolen along with two safes containing jewellery.

The combined value of the items stolen was believed to be in excess of 350,000.

Some of these items were later recovered at the address in Wokingham.

Shortly before the burglary took place, a neighbour noticed a vehicle acting suspiciously in the area and took a video of it.

The distinctive marking on its side matches that of one of the two vehicles recovered in Reading.

A walkie-talkie was recovered at the address in Farnham.

It was the same make and model as the set recovered in Reading, which was missing a single walkie-talkie.

Dinjaku was also linked to a further two burglaries: one in Limpsfield, and one in Manchester.

He was charged with conspiracy to commit burglary between March 2022 and January 2023 on Wednesday, 10 May. He pleaded guilty and was sentenced at Guildford Crown Court on Monday, 21 August.

During sentencing, the judge highlighted the sophisticated nature of the offences and their financial and psychological impact on the victims.

The overall estimated loss from the three burglaries is thought to be in excess of 800,000.

Investigating officer PC Tom Hinch, said,"Mari Dinjaku caused significant distress and financial loss to the victims he burgled."

"These were serious offences, committed with significant planning and a disregard for the impact that breaking into somebodys home can have," Hinch said.

"He has rightly been given a significant custodial sentence. We continue to pursue criminals who conspire to commit offences of this nature in Surrey," Hinch said.
In image file photo PMModi meeting Vladmiri Putin/ courtesy: PIB

New Delhi/IBNS: Russian President Vladimir Putin has informed Prime Minister Narendra Modi that he will be unable to attend the G20 Summit to be hosted by Delhi next weekend.

Putin will send foreign minister Sergey Lavrov in his place, a statement from the Prime Minister's Office said.

The PMO also said the leaders, who interacted during last week's BRICS Summit in South Africa also spoke about bilateral, regional, and global issues.

During the brief call, PM Modi expressed an understanding of Putin's decision and conveyed India's gratitude for Russia's support as it holds the presidency of the G20 for this year.

The two leaders agreed to remain in touch, the Prime Minister's Office said.

Speculation in the media suggests that Putin will not travel since the G20 Summit broke last week after the Kremlin's statement on the Russian leader, who faces global criticism for leading his country into the war with Ukraine.

According to reports, the International Criminal Court (ICC) has issued an arrest warrant for Vladimir Putin accusing him of war crimes in Ukraine.

The Kremlin has strongly denied the reports.

However, if true, ICC's warrant means Putin risks arrest when travelling abroad and that might be also a reason why he did not travel to South Africa (for the BRICS Summit) either, preferring instead to address the meeting via a video link.
New Delhi/IBNS: The 2019 Pulwama terror attack that left 40 paramilitary personnel martyred had triggered the Modi government to scrap Article 370, the Centre told the Supreme Court on Monday, media reports said.

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, who was arguing for the Centre, said as quoted by Times Now, "A lot of things happened.. Pulwama happened in early 2019 and it was done thinking a lot of things in mind such as sovereignty, national security issues etc in mind."

"Two prominent political parties (NC and PDP) have challenged the decision on the ground that the Kashmiris lost autonomy and internal sovereignty.

"The truth is that residents of Jammu and Kashmir had not enjoyed in full measure the fundamental rights to life, property, settlement and employment under an artificially created distinction between 'permanent residents' and others to deprive the latter of basic rights," SG Mehta added.

Modi govt's bold Kashmir step in 2019

Soon after getting re-elected for the second term with a brute majority in May 2019, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his government scrapped Articles 370 and 35A leading to massive political ramifications, fulfilling the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)'s poll promise of decades.

With the decision, the politically-volatile and terrorism wracked Jammu and Kashmir, a bone of contention and military disputes for over seven decades between two nuclear armed neighbours of India and Pakistan, lost the enjoyment of any special status with the Modi government's move to integrate the Muslim-majority region with the rest of the country and bifurcate the state into two.

Articles 370 and 35A in brief

Article 370 used to allow Jammu and Kashmir to have its own constitution, flag and right to handle its own laws except on matters that impact national security.

Article 35A used to allow the Jammu and Kashmir state's legislature to define "permanent residents" of the state and also provided special rights and privileges to those permanent residents, through the presidential order.
Photo courtesy: UNI

Chennai/UNI: Four members of a family sustained burn injuries in a cracker explosion in their house near Rasipuram in Namakkal district of Tamil Nadu on Monday night.

Police said the owner of a licensed fireworks manufacturing unit took the crackers to his house from the godown when it exploded following a spark from the mosquito bat.

The crackers were dumped on the third floor of the owner Kanan's (42) residence when the incident took place, injuring four and the sound of the explosion was heard to a distance of several kilometres.

The injured Kannan, his wife Subathra (40), their daughters Harshavarshini (18), and Hanshika (10) were rescued by the fire service personnel using ropes and were shifted to Rasipuram Government Hospital with burn injuries.

Namakkal District Collector S.Uma and senior police and revenue officials inspected the spot and a probe was on into the incident.
Photo Courtesy: Srinagar Police X page

Srinagar: Jammu and Kashmir Police on Tuesday arrested an Imaam (prayer leader) of a mosque on charges of committing sodomy on a child in Srinagar city.

Police said Waseem Raja, a resident of Noorbagh, who was working as an imam at a mosque in Malikaagun, was arrested for committing an unnatural sexual offence against a 9-year-old child.

A case under relevant sections of the law was registered at Maharaj Gunj Police Station, police said.

"One Waseem Raja, S/o Ali Mohd Malla, R/o Noorbagh, presently working as Imaam at Masjid Aisha Malikaagun, was arrested for committing an unnatural sexual offence on a nine-year-old child. FIR 30/2023 under sections 377 of the IPC and 5, 6, and 7 of the POCSO Act registered in Maharaj Gunj PS", Srinagar police tweeted.
Photo Courtesy: Pixabay

They said during the intervening night of August 28/29, at about 2200 hours some sound of gunshots were heard in Haridal area of Police Post Teetwal Karnah.

Upon hearing the gunshots, a swift search operation was launched by the local Police and Army unit in the area that led to the discovery of the lifeless body of Mukhtar Ahmad Shah, (42) of Panjtaran Karnah.

The deceaseds body was found in the village of Pingla Haridal.

Police shifted the body to Sub District Hospital (SDH) Tangdhar for necessary medico-legal procedures.

Subsequent to the post-mortem examination, the body was handed over to the family for final rites.

A case has been registered under appropriate sections, and a thorough investigation has been initiated.

Police said preliminary investigations suggest that the deceased had been killed by some rival narcotics smuggling gang members or rival terror operatives.

Notably, Mukhtar Ahmad Shah was a high-profile narcotics smuggler and a person of deep connections among narcotics smugglers in the region, police said and added he had been found involved in two cases of narcotics and weapons smuggling in the recent past and had confessed to orchestrating the transportation of substantial quantities of narcotics and weaponry across the border.

His association with his brother, Sadiq Shah, a prominent figure as both a launching commander and a supplier of narcotics and weapons from Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (POJK), underscores the depth of his involvement in these illicit activities.

Sadiq Shah is himself chargesheeted in narco-terror cases and happens to be a top terrorist commander based in POJK, police further said.

Furthermore, it is worth mentioning that the Shah family has been entangled in various legal cases relating to narcotics and weapons smuggling. At least six other members of the Mukhtar Ahmad Shahs family are currently facing charges in connection to these criminal activities, they added.

(With UNI inputs)
Photo courtesy: UNI

Kolkata/UNI: West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has accused Governor C V Ananda Bose of violating the Constitution by appointing " his friends as vice-chancellors in the state-owned universities.

'We have another eye over us now. I respect his ( governor) chair but he is violating the Constitution. Look at the condition of the universities.

"He is appointing his friends as vice chancellors. For instance, an IPS officer with no experience as a professor has been appointed vice chancellor. The BJP cell president was appointed as V-C of Jadavpur University."

The Governor, by virtue of his office, is also the chancellor of the state-owned universities.

Banerjee, who is also the ruling Trinamool Congress chairperson, said this while addressing his party's student wing's foundation day on Monday in the city.

"There should be mutual respect towards the roles dictated to us as per the law. Their position is not the same as that of the Chief Minister.

While they are nominated, we are elected. Nobody should try to undermine an elected government or stoke communal fires," the Chief Minister said.

"Students are being called and questioned about corruption. But first, they must answer: 'Who engaged in corruption during the time of demonetization'? the TMC supremo asked.

"Closure of banks, shady foreign deals, commodification of the private sector, corruption in Covid vaccinations, and suppressing factswho engaged in such graft?" Banerjee questioned.
Photo Courtesy: Srinagar Police X page

Srinagar: Jammu and Kashmir Police on Tuesday arrested an interstate drug peddler and recovered a huge quantity of poppy straw from him in the city.

The interstate drug peddler has been identified as Ajay Paul, a resident of Kapurthala, Punjab, who was arrested along with 11.8 kg of poppy straw (Fukki) in Srinagar on Tuesday.

A case under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act was registered at Police Station Parimpora, police said.

One inter state drug peddler namely Ajay Paul S/o Gulzar R/o Kapurthala, Punjab arrested with about 11.8 Kgs of poppy straw (Fukki). FIR No. 135/2023 U/S 8/15 NDPS Act registered in Parimpora PS. pic.twitter.com/4FO2w0UFGi  Srinagar Police (@SrinagarPolice) August 29, 2023

"One interstate drug peddler, namely Ajay Paul S/o Gulzar R/o Kapurthala, Punjab, was arrested with about 11.8 kg of poppy straw (Fukki). FIR No. 135/2023 U/S 8/15 NDPS Act registered in Parimpora PS," Srinagar police tweeted.
Image: Pixabay

A 35-year-old woman was beaten to death by her husband allegedly on suspicion of having a relationship with a youth in Mill Area locality of Rae Bareli district here in Uttar Pradesh, police sources said here on Tuesday.

Police sources said that accused Ram Vilas, a resident of Bhagu village, used to suspect the character of his wife Mithilesh.

"It is being said that on Monday evening when Ram Vilas came home a youth was present there. The accused lost control and started thrashing the youth," they said.

Police sources told UNI that when Mithilesh intervened Ram Vilas attacked her with a stick and killed her.

"A case has been lodged on the complaint of the deceased's brother and Ram Vilas has been taken into custody," they said.

Police sources said that the couple have four children.

"The body has been sent for postmortem examination," they said.
Representative image of India-China/ courtesy: Pixabay

New Delhi/IBNS: India Tuesday lodged a strong protest through diplomatic channels with Beijing over the issue of the 2023 standard map of China that lays claim to Indias territory.

In response to media queries, External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said, "India rejects these claims as they have no basis."

"Such steps by the Chinese side only complicate the resolution of the boundary question," the MEA spokesperson said.

India's response came after China on Monday officially released the 2023 edition of its standard map where Arunachal Pradesh, the Aksai Chin region, Taiwan, and the disputed South China Sea were all included within the Chinese territory.

The development came days after Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi-Jinping called for a "resolution" of the long-standing border issues between the two nations on the sidelines of the 15th edition of the BRICS Summit in South Africa.

The two leaders also agreed to intensify efforts at expeditious "disengagement and de-escalation" to restore normal relationships between the two countries.
Photo courtesy: Facebook/Arvind Kejriwal

New Delhi/IBNS: Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal Tuesday ordered the suspension of teachers and vice principal of a Delhi school that failed to report alleged sexual assault on the premises to the police after one of the victims informed them about it.

As per the letter, Delhi Education Minister Atishi wrote to the Directorate of Education to ensure rigorous training of all the principals, and teachers on provisions of POCSO to avoid such incidents in future.

In her letter, Atishi assured the Delhi government's unwavering commitment to a safe and secure environment in the schools for the holistic development of the students.

The two boys, aged 12 and 13 years, were allegedly sexually assaulted during a summer camp organised by the school.

Delhi Education Minister Atishi on Tuesday said, "This is a deeply disturbing act. It is especially worrying that the students had informed the teachers and the vice principal but they did not bring it to the notice of the police or any higher authorities."

She said that "non-reporting of sexual abuse is a criminal offence."

"We must do everything to ensure children are safe and secure at all times," Atishi said.
Photo Courtesy: Pixabay

Gangtok:The Sikkim government has proposed setting up of six heliports with added facilities to boost the states tourism.

Disclosing this, Additional Chief Secretary Tourism, ML Shrivastava said a 12-seater helicopter on lease is also in the offing.

We have been focusing lately on communication so that our guests (tourists) have a memorable stay. We have proposed 6 Heliports with added facilities. And a 12-seater helicopter on lease is in the offing, he said.

The Centre is very positive about linking Pakyong airport to Kathmandu and Dhaka, he said.

He announced that 17 Tourist Information Centres (TICs) were being turned into facilitation centres. 1000 Mega Homestays project has also been launched at a cost of Rs 521 crores.

These will also help to boost rural economy, he added.

(With UNI inputs)
Photo Courtesy: Wikimedia Commons

Turkish-Dutch airline Corendon is introducing a child-free area on its planes, an initiative that promises to help solo travellers.

It is the first European airline service to introduce the facility.

The new Only Adult zone will reserve seats for passengers over the age of 16.

The flight in which the facility will be offered will travel from Amsterdam and the Caribbean island of Curacao in November.

The airline said the zone would be located in the front section of the 432-seat Airbus A350 used on the route, with the 102 seats separated from the rest of the cabin by curtains, reports Stuff.

Onboard our flights, we always strive to respond to the different needs of our customers, Corendon founder Atilay Uslu told the news portal.

We also believe this can have a positive effect on parents travelling with small children. They can enjoy the flight without worrying if their children are making too much noise," Uslu said.

How much do you need to pay to avail the service?

Passengers will need to pay an extra 45 one way to avail of the offer.
Photo Courtesy: Unsplash

At least two police officers were killed and three others were injured in Khyber Pakhtunkhwas Lakki Marwat region when unidentified gunmen attacked a patrolling vehicle on Monday, media reports said.

Lakki Marwat District Police Officer (DPO) Tariq Habib told Dawn News that the gunmen launched an assault on a patrolling vehicle from the Pizo Police Station, immediately killing two officers.

The area was cordoned off after the attack.

Police have started an investigation into the incident.
Raksha Bandhan, also known as Rakhi is the Hindu festival that celebrates the bond of love between brothers and sisters on the last day of the lunar Calendar month of Sawan (Shravan). Raksha Bandhan in Sanskrit means bond of protection and every year, sisters tie the rakhi which symbolizes the bond of protection on their brothers hands. In return, the brothers promise to protect their sisters and be with their side forever.

Raksha Bandhan is celebrated in various ways. Not just siblings but many other people celebrate the day with their loved ones. People who arent siblings but share a similar bond also cherish their relationship by tying the rakhi on this day.

Happy Raksha Bandhan 2023: Wishes, Messages, Quotes, Images And Rakhi Whatsapp Status In English | Freepik

This year, Raksha Bandhan falls on August 30 and 31. According to Drik Panchang, the two dates are because of Bhadra Kaal, during which one should not perform Raksha Bandhan rituals. Therefore, you can tie Rakhi on these two dates. On this day, sisters tie rakhi on the wrist of their brothers and pray for their good health and prosperity. Siblings exchange sweets and gifts, which makes the festival even more exciting for them.

(Also Read: Happy Raksha Bandhan 2023 Wishes)

As Rakhi 2023 is just around the corner, Here we have compiled a number of Rakhi wishes, messages, quotes, images, cards and Raksha Bandhan status in English that you can share with your sisters and brothers and celebrate the bond of togetherness. May you all have a Happy Raksha Bandhan!

Happy Raksha Bandhan 2023: Wishes, Messages, Quotes, Images And Rakhi Whatsapp Status In English

Here are some Raksha Bandhan messages, greetings, wishes, images, quotes, SMS, greetings and Rakhi Whatsapp status in English that you can send to your sibling and make the day special for them:

Happy Raksha Bandhan 2023: Wishes, Messages, Quotes, Images And Rakhi Whatsapp Status In English | Freepik

Happy Raksha Bandhan wishes 2023 in English

1. The knot of that thread tied to her brothers hand is a knot of love, care, support, respect, and security. Happy Rakhi!

2. A plate filled with sweets and Rakhi says its the time of the year to show your endless love to your siblings. Happy Rakhi 2023!

3. Happy Rakhi from mine to yours, lets celebrate our childhood journey together and enjoy this beautiful festival!

4. I will always stand by you, no matter how tough the situation might me. Happy Raksha Bandhan!

5. The distances between us might increase with time but the love and special bond you and I share will always grow ever stronger with each passing day. Wishing you a Happy Rakshabandhan!

6. Dear Bhaiya! This Rakshabandhan, I pray to the almighty to make our bond of love and care grow stronger each time I tie this sacred rakhi on your wrist. Happy Rakhi!

7. A bond of love  A bond of togetherness A sacred thread of protection  An occasion to cherish the life-long relation of care  Happy Rakshabandhan!

8. I may have a lot of friends, but to have you in my life is the best gift of companionship. Thank you! for the fond memories that you have given. To the best brother and best friend. Happy Rakshabandhan!

9. I might tease you and annoy you. But, I know that despite all my bad habits you will always be there for me. Blessed to have an understanding brother like you. You are the best. By the way, your gift is still pending! Love you the most! Happy Rakshabandhan!

10. If God grants me a wish, I will ask him to make you my brother in my next-life. Much love. Happy Rakshabandhan!

Happy Raksha Bandhan wishes For Brother

1. We laugh and cry, we play and fight. We shared moments of happiness and sorrow, which made our bond stronger. Happy Raksha Bandhan to you Sister.

2. Having you is like having a best friend I can't get rid of. I know whatever I do, you will still be there. Happy Raksha Bandhan!

3. To have a lovely sister is like having a true soulmate. Happy Rakhi!

4. You my sister are someone more special than words. You are love mixed with friendship and a million everlasting favorite memories. You are a hand within my hand enfolded with love and understanding. You give me a feeling that makes me wonder what I would ever do without you, and no one is loved so dearly. Happy Raksha Bandhan.

5. It is you who have hidden all my secrets and given me the freedom to do everything in life. Love you Bhaiya! Happy Rakshabandhan!

6. On the auspicious occasion of Raksha Bandhan, I want to promise my dear sister that no matter what I will always stand by her side! Lots of hugs and love to my dear sister on Raksha Bandhan!

7. No one understands me like you do. You are my closest ally and the one in whom I can place my complete trust. Happy Rakhi, dear sister/brother!

8. It may be that memories will fade with time but the love that brother and sister share will never fade away, rather it will multiply over the years. Happy Raksha Bandhan to my dearest sister" "On the occasion of Raksha Bandhan, I want to send all my love and good wishes to my dear sister who has always been my best friend!! Love for my beautiful sister.

9. I must have done something right God blessed me with a brother/sister like you. Thank you for being my pillar of strength. Happy Raksha Bandhan.

10. In the cookie of life, you my dear sister are the chocolate chips. Happy Raksha Bandhan.

11. All the festivals may be very colourful but there isn't any festival as powerful as Raksha Bandhan! Happy Raksha Bandhan to the most lovable brother of the Universe!!

Happy Raksha Bandhan 2023: Wishes, Messages, Quotes, Images And Rakhi Whatsapp Status In English | Freepik

Happy Rakhi wishes for Sister in English

1. I must have done something right God blessed me with a brother/sister like you. Thank you for being my pillar of strength. Happy Raksha Bandhan.

2. I may not be there with you but remember I miss you and I am waiting for you to come home really soon. Lets share the bond of love once again on the day of Raksha Bandhan and make our bonding even stronger. Happy Rakshabandhan Sis!

3. No matter how old you grow, for me you will always remain my adorable little sister. Happy Rakshabandhan!

4. Even if we will not be together on this Raksha Bandhan to share the thread of Rakhi there's always this invisible thread that will keep us connected irrespective of the geographical boundaries. Happy Rakhi dear Sisters!

5. The warmth of love between brothers and sisters should remain life-long. Happy Rakshbandhan my dear Sister!

6. Dear sister, you are my friend and biggest protector. In good times or bad, you will always find me there by your side. I wish that your life be filled with happiness and love. Wish you a Happy Rakhi dear Sisters!

7. All the festivals may be very colourful but there isn't any festival as powerful as Raksha Bandhan! Happy Raksha Bandhan to the most lovable Sister of the Universe!!

8. On the occasion of Raksha Bandhan, I want to send all my love and good wishes to my dear sister who has always been my best friend!! Happy Raksha bandhan 2023!

9. Today, on the auspicious occasion of Raksha Bandhan, I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart for being the best Brother of the World! Happy Raksha Bandhan to the best sister of the Universe!!

10. It may be that memories will fade with time but the love that brother and sister share will never fade away, rather it will multiply over the years. Happy Raksha Bandhan to my dearest sister.

Happy Raksha Bandhan 2023: Wishes, Messages, Quotes, Images And Rakhi Whatsapp Status In English

Happy Rakhi Messages 2023 in English

1. Even if we are not together on this Raksha Bandhan there's always this strong bond that keeps us connected irrespective of the geographical boundaries. You're priceless to me. Happy Raksha Bandhan.

2. This rakhi is not a mere thread but a promise that I'll be by your side forever. Let's keep protecting each other. Happy Raksha Bandhan.

3. All our childhood memories came back as soon as I received the rakhi that you sent me. Cannot thank you enough for being by my side and always keeping my secrets safe. Love you! Happy Raksha Bandhan.

4. This Raksha Bandhan, I pray to God that, our bond of love continues to grow stronger with each passing year.

5. You, my sister, are someone more special than words. You are love mixed with friendship and a million everlasting favourite memories. You are a hand within my hand enfolded with love and understanding. You give me a feeling that makes me wonder what I would ever do without you, and no one is loved so dearly. Happy Raksha Bandhan.

6. On the auspicious occasion of Raksha Bandhan, I want to promise my dear sister that no matter what, I will always stand by her side! Lots of hugs and love to my dear sister on Raksha Bandhan.

7. It may be that memories will fade with time but the love that brother and sister share will never fade away, rather it will multiply over the years. Happy Raksha Bandhan to my dearest sister. On this occasion, I want to send all my love and good wishes to my dear sister who has always been my best friend!! Love for my beautiful sister.

8. I remember sharing my room with you while we were still a teenager and then sneaking out after you slept. I know you weren't asleep but you still kept my secret secure and protected. The same way you've protected me. Happy Raksha Bandhan.

9. Even though brothers and sisters may fight like cats and dogs but they are best of friends and always stand by each other in times of need. Happy Raksha Bandhan.

10. On this Raksha Bandhan, let's bring back the lively spirit of childhood, play pranks with each other and become the wacky sibling we were always. Happy Raksha Bandhan.

Happy Raksha Bandhan 2023: Wishes, Messages, Quotes, Images And Rakhi Whatsapp Status In English | Freepik

Short Rakhi Wishes For Brother in English

1. Siblings by chance, friends by choice. Happy Raksha Bandhan 2023!

2. Sisters: a source of strength and inspiration. Happy Rakhi!

3. Rakhi strengthens the bond of love. Happy Rakhi!

4. Rakhi is a symbol of sibling love and protection. Happy Rakhi!

5. Dear Bhaiya, let us make this Raksha Bandhan a memorable one by creating beautiful memories.

6. With a brother like you, I have to worry about nothing because I know you are there.

7. Every Raksha Bandhan you promise me to take care of me and live up to it without fail. Happy Rakhi.

8. To my brother, you are my constant source of happiness and love. Happy Rakhi!

9. Happy Rakhi to my dear brother, the one who understands me like no one else.

10. With Rakhi, we renew our bond of love. Happy Raksha Bandhan 2023!

Short Raksha Bandhan Wishes For Sister

1. Sending you loads of love and warm wishes on Raksha Bandhan. You mean the world to me, sis!

2. Happy Rakhi to my partner-in-crime, my confidant, and my best friend. Let's celebrate our beautiful bond!

3. As we celebrate Raksha Bandhan, I remember all the wonderful memories we've shared. Here's to many more!

4. Happy Rakhi to the one who has always protected and guided me. You're my superhero, sister!

5. May the thread of love and protection always bind us together. Happy Raksha Bandhan!

6. To my amazing sister, on this Rakhi, I promise to always stand by your side. Happy Raksha Bandhan!

7. Wishing you a joyful Raksha Bandhan filled with love, laughter, and cherished moments.

8. On this special day, I'm grateful for a sister like you who brings so much happiness into my life. Happy Rakhi!

9. Happy Raksha Bandhan! May our bond remain as colorful and vibrant as the rakhi itself.

10. Happy Raksha Bandhan, dear sister! May our bond grow stronger with each passing day.

Happy Rakhi Quotes 2023 in English

1. To the outside world, we all grow old. But not to brothers and sisters. We know each other as we always were. We know each others hearts. Weve shared private family jokes. We remember family feuds and secrets, family griefs and joys. We live outside the touch of time.  Clara Ortega

2. What brothers say to tease their sisters has nothing to do with what they really think of them.  Esther M. Friesner

3. Brothers and sisters are as close as hands and feet.  Vietnamese Proverb

4 What brothers say to tease their sisters has nothing to do with what they really think of them.  Esther M. Friesner

5. My brother has the best sister in the world.  Unknown

6. You and I are brother and sister forever. Always remember that if you fall I will pick you up. As soon as I finish laughing.  Unknown

7. Brothers are just born to bother sisters.  Unknown

8. Some relationships are like Tom and Jerry: They tease each other, knock down each other, irritate each other, but cant live without each other!  Unknown

9. Brothers and sisters separated by distance joined by love.  Chuck Danes

10. The greatest gift our parents gave us was each other.  Unknown

11. I think people that have a brother or sister dont realize how lucky they are. Sure, they fight a lot, but to know that theres always somebody there, somebody thats family.  Trey Parker & Matt Stone

12. Sisters and brothers just happen, we dont get to choose them, but they become one of our most cherished relationships.  Wes Adamson

13. Brother and sister, together as friends, ready to face whatever life sends. Joy and laughter or tears and strife, holding hands tightly as we dance through life.  Suzie Huitt

14. Growing up, I had a very normal relationship with my brother and sister. But, over time, they became my best friends, and now I hang out with them all the time. Im very close with them.  Logan Lerman

15. Brothers are playmates in the beginning and best friends for life.  Anonymous

16. The best thing about having four big brothers is you always have someone to do something for you.  Chloe Moretz

Happy Rakhi Images & Cards 2023

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Happy Raksha Bandhan 2023: Wishes, Messages, Quotes, Images And Rakhi Whatsapp Status In English

Wish you a Happy Raksha Bandhan 2023!

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A flight attendant has warned against ordering a specific drink when on a flight.

Celina Bedding has highlighted the food and drinks travellers should "never" order when flying at 30,000 feet. The crew member argued that holidaymakers should never drink tap water and avoid plane food as much as they can.

istock

No water, but why?

"For any passengers out there, whether you are a frequent flyer, an occasional flyer, a seasonal flyer or will be a first-time flyer soon, I would like to say to you: Never drink tap water from the plane," flight attendant Celina Bedding told the Mirror on Monday.

"Many studies have shown it's not sanitary for drinking. You may have seen the sign already, as most planes have it by the tap. You may have thought it's just a way to get you to buy a drink. But it's actually for your own health. So, definitely do not drink tap water on a plane. It's never clean. The tanks are disgusting."

Most airlines, especially low-cost carriers, charge passengers for water, with the average bottle selling for 2 on a plane. This price tag can get significantly more expensive depending on the portion size and airline you're flying with.

If you haven't managed to stock up in the departure lounge, avoiding the hefty cost and filling up on the plane can be enticing. Celina warns against succumbing to such temptation.

Getty

Beverages and food that should be 'avoided'

It would also be wise not to drink coffee or tea that was prepared on board, Bedding advised.

Celina urged passengers to "avoid plane food as much as you can" as it often contains high quantities of salt and sugar in order to counteract the taste-bud-numbing effects of flying. This also tends to make it quite unhealthy.

The flight attendant explained: "The reason behind it is the fact that because of the cabin pressure, we lose around 30 per cent of our taste buds. So the companies that prepare food for the airlines add much more salt to it in order to have a nice flavour at 40,000 feet."

Despite ham and cheese toasties and sandwiches being the most popular meals on a plane, the crew member recommended ditching these and opting for a salad instead.

plane-food

What to do instead

A 2019 study by Hunter College found that many airlines have possibly provided passengers with unhealthy drinking water. The researchers recommend flyers only consume water from sealed bottles.



She said her favourite in-flight beverage is tomato juice, and while that might seem odd, theres a scientific reason behind it. Taste buds change in flight due to lower pressure and humidity inside the cabin. A study commissioned by German airline Lufthansa found that tomato juice has the most potent flavor at 30,000 feet.

She further suggested: "You could choose a salad or fruit salad, for example. Make sure you drink plenty of water before, during and after a flight to hydrate yourself."

Earlier in Jan 2021, Kat Kamalani, a 30-year-old flight attendant went viral for her behind-the-scenes TikTok videos. In a video that had the internet abuzz, she told viewers to drink only canned or bottled beverages on a flight.

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A new research has found that thrilling high-risk and costliest adventures have captivated the interest of billionaires worldwide.

The study aims to identify and categorise a list of activities according to their costs and level of risk, as well as the billionaires who have attempted them. The research has been conducted by ARKA, a US-based sustainable packaging start-up.

Below is the list of adventures ranked as per their costs. Take a look.

Flying around the moon: $150 million

The study has found that flying around the moon is the most costly and high-risk activity undertaken by billionaires such as Richard Branson, a British business magnate, a commercial astronaut and founder of the Virgin Group and Charles Simonyi, a Hungarian-American software architect. Not only does this activity come with the highest risks, but it also comes with an impressive $150 million cost. Billionaires like Richard Branson and Charles Simonyi, have enjoyed this trip, with overall 24 individuals having attempted it so far.

ISRO

Space travel: $55 million

Space travel is the second most costly activity that has captivated many billionaires. It also ranks as the second most risky activity on our list, with a price of $55 million. Over 622 individuals, including billionaires Guy Laliberte, Charles Simonyi, Mark Shuttleworth, Dennis Tito, and Jeff Bezos, have traveled to the Earth's orbit.

Blue Origin space flight: $28 million

Like the previous activity, Blue Origin space flight comes third on the list of most costly activities that billionaires tried. Although moderately risky, it has a significant cost of $28 million, captivating billionaires like Jeff Bezos, Hamish Harding, and Richard Branson, along with the 31 people who have tried it.

Trip to International Space Station: $20 million

The trip to International Space Station (ISS), ranks fourth for both riskiness and expense, offering a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Despite the serious risks and cost of $20 million, trips to the ISS have been taken by 244 people, including billionaires Dennis Tito, Charles Simonyi, Yusaku Maezawato, and Guy Laliberte.

Unsplash

Scuba diving in the Mariana Trench: $750,000

Scuba diving in the Mariana Trench comes fifth on the list of costly activities that billionaires tried. Although it costs $750,000, which is relatively lower than the previous activities, it's still considered a high-risk activity. Only 3 individuals, including billionaire James Cameron, have dared to dive deep and uncover the ocean's mysteries.

Rhino hunting: $275,000

The controversial and risky activity of rhino hunting claims the sixth position on the list to attract billionaires. This activity is legally permitted only in Namibia and South Africa. Although the total number of people trying this activity is unclear, 81-year-old Lacy Harber is the only recorded billionaire who has paid $275,000 for the opportunity to hunt an aged black rhino.

Deep Sea Diving to Shipwrecks: $250,000

Even with the shocking Titan Tour crash, hunting for shipwrecks of the Titanic in the ocean's depths is only the seventh most costly activity out there. Billionaires like Hamish Harding, Shahzada Dawood, Richard Branson, and Paul Allen have all been hooked by this deep-sea tour to discover long-lost shipwrecks. This very high-risk adventure costs only $250,000.

Reuters

Trip to South Pole: $100,000

Ranked eighth on the list of costly activities that billionaires enjoy is exploring the majestic South Pole. It falls into the category of low-risk activities costing $100,000. Many adventurers, including billionaires Hamish Harding, Richard Branson, Jeff Bezos, and Mark Zuckerberg, have enjoyed this journey.

Climbing Mount Everest: $55,000

Ranked ninth on the list of costly activities that billionaires enjoy is climbing Mount Everest. It falls into the category of high-risk activities costing, on average, $55,000. Over 6000 adventurers, including billionaires Mukesh Ambani, Richard Branson, and Bernard Arnault, have enjoyed this journey.

Shark diving: $5,000 to $7,000

Lastly, shark diving ranks tenth on the list of costly activities that billionaires enjoy. With prices ranging from $5,000 to $7,000, this trip is a relatively affordable option. It presents a moderate level of risk, making it an ideal choice for adrenaline enthusiasts. Billionaires like Mark Cuban have taken on this thrilling experience.



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and an Israeli fund prevent a short circuit in the project
The figures speak of a good tourist year in terms of arrivals and revenues returning to the pre-pandemic levels, Minister of Tourism, Olga , said in an interview with Naftemporiki.

Kefalogianni to N: Rendering Greek tourism more humane -  
Sunday Elom, Vice-Chancellor of Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ikwo, Ebonyi State, has warned students of the institution to be mindful of the clothes they put on to school.

The Vice-Chancellor who disclosed this during the institutions 11th matriculation ceremony at the weekend, said any student caught dressing indecently would be made to pay the sum of N10,000 only.

According to the Professor, the management of the institution has constituted a committee to checkmate indecent dressing by the students.

He further urged them to focus on their studies and obey the varsitys rules and regulations.

Do not be distracted by the so-called side attractions on and off the campus. Rather, keep your eyes strictly on the ball.

Also, be informed that Alex Ekwueme Federal University, Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, has absolute zero tolerance for cultism, examination malpractices, bullying, sorting, campus prostitution/sex-for-grades, and improper dressing, and we do not hesitate to sanction offenders accordingly.

READ ALSO: Air Strike: NAF Destroys Illegal Refining Sites In Rivers, Kills Terrorists In North-East

Specifically, we have constituted a Committee on Improper Dressing on Campus, and any student found dressing improperly would pay a fine of N10,000 for each offence.

So, be warned. Dress the way you would like to be addressed.

I wish to assure you of adequate security on campus. We, however, plead with you not to hesitate to report any suspicious activities, intimidation, or harassment of any sort to the Dean of Students Affairs, security officers, SERVICOM, or any staff of the University for immediate action.

We will continue to strive to improve the existing facilities on campus, while we also urge you to take adequate care of the university property to avoid damage, as they are put in place for your use.

Be reminded that you have sworn an oath of allegiance to the University and its authorities, followed by a pledge to abide by her rules and regulations and also promised to appreciate its core values and principles.

Please be warned that a breach of the oath that you have taken today will attract appropriate sanctions.

Our core values of excellence, integrity, and entrepreneurship are brought to bear in all our academic activities.

Elom added that 5,097 new students were admitted into the school out of 15,000 candidates that applied to study at the University.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has urged his cabinet members to work hard to revive the countrys economy.

Speaking on Monday during the inauguration of the Federal Executive Council (FEC) at the Aso Rock villa, Abuja, the President said the ministers have the capacity to make a difference in the ministries that they have been assigned to oversee.

We shall evolve a homegrown re-engineering of our finances, a reimagined stewardship of our resources, and we will let the economy work for the people of this country.

There are so many things we can and will do. Yes, some cynics will say it is impossible. But in your own dictionary of service, everything is possible, and it must be possible, he told the ministers and other members of the cabinet.

Tinubu however expressed confidence that the carefully selected cabinet members know that his government is one with a new mandate to deliver for Nigeria without any lamentation or excuses.

We have the talent. We have the level of intellectual capacity required to turn this country around. We will make sure that the country is on the right path to succeed on behalf of more than 200 million Nigerians who rely on us, he added.

READ ALSO: We Met Bad Economy, Promise To Make It Better  FG

Tinubu noted that the country would rely on the experience, skills, intellect and networking of those who had been appointed to make headway in the challenging times

His words: You and I know that expectations are high, and these are tough times. We must work hard and move ourselves to create a buoyant economy that will serve Nigeria.

We have an employment rate that is unacceptable, and we are facing threats from climate change. In order to turn things around, you have been selected to perform your utmost best.

Our policy implementation will reform the economy, ensure inclusive growth, and strengthen security for peace and prosperity. Without security, there can be no investment.

He further reminded his cabinet that he is only one man and that their innovative thinking to solve problems would shape his leadership as a president who listens.

It is in your hands now. I am ready to listen and to cooperate. I am ready even to be corrected. Only God is perfect.

You have been asked to fetch water from a dry well. The challenges are great, but we will deliver for Nigerians. I am happy to be the captain of this vehicle.

It is a great commitment that you have made to the country. Since your inauguration as a minister, you have become a servant for the people, serving all of the people, all of the time, Tinubu said.
The Police Force Public Relations Officer, Prince Olumuyiwa Adejobi, has urged Nigerians to engage their state PPROs more and should only contact him if these representatives fail them.

This was contained in a statement released Tuesday on his official X (formerly Twitter), account.

Take note of these numbers. They might save you or others. Also, you are urged to always engage your PROs in all cases. Its when they fail you or disappoint you before you reach out to me.

It is not possible I attend to thousands of calls and messages every day. No way. Thanks, Adejobi captioned the image containing contacts of all 36 states PROs.

READ ALSO: Unknown Gunmen Kill Police Inspector, Steals Gun, Beret In Port Harcourt

Nigerians have since taken to the Police PROs comment section to share their thoughts on the new information released.

One Great_Khan wrote, Lol. I have called the Abia state PRO twice, first not going, second, didnt pick only to get a flash the next day. Called the Uyo one day, the man was cold asf and told me to go and talk to them and ask them what they want then I come to call him back. However, I called Abuja and they came through. I have mixed feelings about saving this screenshot though, but whatever.

Breakdfknrule tweeted, Ogun state pro no dey ever pick the call and if she later picks na Wetin the officer talk she go believe.

One Amarachi Ejimofor tweeted, Stop this thing. What are you saying on thomdock sir? Many people are angry, they will come after you.

See post below:
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, Nyesom Wike, has announced that the ministry has put in place a structure to reintroduce monthly sanitation as part of strategies to keep the city clean.

INFORMATION NIGERIA reports that the former Governor of Rivers State led this out on Monday while speaking after a closed-door meeting with contractors handling different projects in the FCT.

The Minister said that he had already informed President Bola Tinubu that, at least two Saturdays in a month from 7 a.m. to 10 a.m. be dedicated to sanitation.

Wike noted that the sanitation decision would help companies supporting the FCT with logistics to go to market, and other public places to evacuate refuse.

READ MORE: Wike Confirms Approval Of N2bn Palliative For FCT

We must all make sacrifices. There is nothing like we are going to suffer. You also contribute to refuse. So, if you spare three hours on a Saturday at home to clear the refuse and bring them out for us to evacuate and dispose, then that is the little way you can help.

We are appealing to you (residents) to cooperate with us so we can achieve our goals, Wike said.

He vowed that the government would also look into those who refuse to develop their plots for many years, adding that the President Tinubu-led administration would not continue to allow undeveloped land across the city where criminals were taking refuge.

How can you have empty land in the city and allow people to build shanties on them because you did not develop them.

Some properties were built for 20 years but not completed. Go and see what is happening there, criminals have taken over the place and as a serious government, we will not allow that.

We want to make Abuja a safe environment, but we cant do it alone; we require the support of every stakeholder, Wike said.
Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), has told the Federal Government that he would never beg for his freedom after being cleared by a Federal High Court in Abuja.

The IPOB leader, in a letter signed by his lead counsel, Mike Ozekhome, said begging for his freedom at this point would be an insult to the memory of the late Mbazulike Amechi, first Minister of Aviation during the First Republic in Nigeria, who had in his old age repeatedly travelled from the South-East to Abuja, to beg for his release as a dying wishthe government never fulfilled.

In the letter titled Update on our routine visit to our indefatigable client  Onyendu Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, at the Headquarters of the State Security Services, Abuja, where he is still being illegally and unconstitutionally detained in solitary confinement, Kanu noted that he wont beg the federal government because the Appeal Court has already made a pronouncement and its still sacrosanct.

Onyendu Mazi Nnamdi Kanu used the opportunity offered by the visit to extend his heartfelt gratitude to all people of good conscience and groups calling for his release. He, however, observed that many people may not have understood the peculiarity of his case but proceeded to urge us to clarify that he has been effectively and validly discharged by the judgment of the Court of Appeal, delivered October 13, 2022, which said judgment also prohibited his further trial and detention. Therefore, there is no charge pending against Onyendu Mazi Nnamdi Kanu before any court as of today.

Furthermore, Onyendu Mazi Nnamdi Kanu unequivocally stated that begging the Federal Government to release him at this point is an insult to the memory of late Pa Mbazulike Amaechi, who, despite his age and ill health, repeatedly travelled from the South-East to Abuja, begging the Federal Government of Nigeria, to honour his dying wish, which request was treated with greatest disdain by the Federal Government, and was also not honoured.

READ ALSO: FG Not In Position To Borrow At This Time  Finance Minister, Wale Edun

Thus, Onyendu Mazi Nnamdi Kanu is of the firm view that he does not need to beg the FGN to release him. The Court of Appeal has already made a pronouncement in that regard, and that pronouncement has remained sacrosanct till date.

Therefore, the call every person of goodwill should make in the circumstance of his continued illegal detention is for the Supreme Court to set down a date for the expeditious hearing of the appeal filed by the Federal Government, as provided for in the Criminal Appeals Practice Directions of the Supreme Court.

We visited our indefatigable Client  Onyendu Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, today (Monday), the 28th day of August 2023, to brief him on the various intervening actions taken by the legal team ably led by Prof. Mike Ozekhome, SAN, to address pertinent concerns affecting his welfare and failure of the SSS to avail him of his medical records.

To this end, an application has been made to the Honourable Chief Judge of the Federal Capital Territory by our erudite Lead Counsel  Prof. Mike Ozekhome SAN, to appoint a Magistrate that will visit and inspect the SSS facility/cell where Mazi Nnamdi Kanu has been held in solitary confinement since June 2021 till date, in pursuance to the relevant provisions of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act, 2015.

Following the SSS refusal to avail Onyendu Mazi Nnamdi Kanu with his medical records, as directed by Hon. Justice Binta Nyako, in the judgment delivered on July 20, 2023, our erudite lead counsel, Prof. Mike Ozekhome, SAN, was compelled by this brazen disregard to an order of Court by the SSS, to initiate a contempt proceeding against the State Security Service and her Director General, for this gross violation of positive Orders of Court, the letter read.
The Labour Party has raised alarm over an attack on its Secretariat in Owerri, the Imo State capital by suspected political thugs and policemen, allegedly acting on the order of the state government.

INFORMATION NIGERIA reports that the partys National Publicity Secretary, Obiora Ifoh, raised the alarm in Abuja, on Monday.

According to Obiora, during the early hours of Monday 28 August, the state Secretariat of the LP was once more attacked by the police and thugs allegedly on the directives of the state government.

He explained that the state chairman of the Labour Party, Barrister Callistus Ihejiagwa had earlier sent an SOS to the public pleading with Nigerians to come to the aid of the party which at the time was at the mercy of the attackers who comprised of over a hundred thugs and the accompanying men of the Police Force.

Obiora said: In a voice mail sent to our party headquarters later, the state chairman of the party said, We have been invaded by the thugs and policemen under the directives of Hope Uzodinma, they have pulled down all our flags, pulled down the banners of Peter Obi, pulled down the banners of our governorship candidate, seized Peoples phone, beat people up, and committed all manners of atrocities just now in our office.

READ MORE: APC Sponsoring Apapa, Others To Cause Internal Crisis  Labour Party Alleges

According to Vanguards report, Ifoh further explained that when the state chairman confronted the thugs, they said they were under directives by the state government to pulled down Peter Obi and Senator Athans billboards but particularly that of Obi.

He quoted Ihejiagwa as saying, They were instructed to target Obis billboard everywhere in the city. One of the assaulted members of the party is presently hospitalized after the brutality meted at us.

We are calling on the whole world to hear our predicament and come to our aid. The government is now hounding every opposition element in the state. 

The party recalled that early last week, the Labour Party Presidential candidate, Peter Obi, led a crowd of party faithful and supporters including Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti and Labour Party members of the national assembly to formally inaugurate the governorship campaign of its candidate Senator Athan Achonu.

The party spokesman further said: The sea of heads that graced the occasion is believed to have sent a shocking warning of what will happen in the November 11, Governorship election in the state.

You will also recall that the same secretariat was attacked in March and as well in April this year by the police in connivance with the state government.

We are therefore calling on the state government to refrain from using brute force and intimidation against opposition political parties in the state.

We are also calling on the Inspector General of the Police to caution the government of the state and order the police commissioner in the state to rise to the occasion and check any further intimidation of the Labour party and our members in the state.
Fulani socio-cultural association, Miyetti Allah Kautal Hore, has expressed displeasure over the treatments meted on its members across the country over the years.

It was gathered that the organisation has also constituted a 55-member legal committee to take record of all cases against it members nationwide with a view to seeking legal redress.

Two other committees comprising enlightenment and nomadic education were also inaugurated to address the problem of education and social cohesion.

Speaking at the groups Annual General meeting on Monday, the National President of the association, Alhaji Abdullahi Bodejo, said that a situation where all Fulani herdsmen were treated as criminally-minded people was untrue, unjust and unfair.

READ MORE: Headsmen Kill Soldier, 24 Others In Taraba

He added that the legal team have been mandated by the association to provide legal assistance to all herders unjustly treated, humiliated and sent to jail in their fatherland.

Many of our kinsmen are in correctional facilities across the country for unjust reasons. They are always arrested and sent to jail simply because they are pastoring around grazing areas.

Others were arrested just because they are Fulani people.

The situation has been very worrisome, that is why we decided to constitute the 55-man legal team to help us fight the cause of our people especially the innocent ones to get justice.

This association does not encourage violence. We believe in one Nigeria and remain committed to the peace and united nation, so anyone of our kinsmen found to be involved in unjustified trouble will not be assisted by our lawyers, he said.
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has posited that the country is grinding to a halt under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

National Publicity Secretary of the Party, Debo Ologunagba, via a statement on X on Monday, said Tinubus leadership has created an atmosphere and feeling of absence of governance in the country.

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) alerts that Nigeria is asphyxiating, in dire straits and fast grinding to a halt under Senator @officialABAT and the All Progressives Congress (APC). @OfficialAPCNg.

The Party laments that Nigeria is at the edge of the precipice under the Tinubu-led APC hold which lacks the acceptability and followership of citizens; a situation that has created an atmosphere and feeling of absence of governance in the country.

Our Party is alarmed that there is a serious disconnection between the government and the citizens arising from the ill-planned and hasty implementation of policies that have brought excruciating hardship, horrifying insecurity and a general sense of apprehension that is already threatening the peace, unity and corporate existence of our nation.

The administrations lack of ingenuity, tact and sensitivity towards the wellbeing of Nigerians in the removal of subsidy and floating of the Naira inflamed unbearable high cost of living, crippled our national productivity, crashed millions of businesses and sparked massive job loss with attendant escalated poverty, hunger, insecurity and hopelessness across the country.

It is horrifying that in the last two months, over 150 million Nigerians can no longer afford their daily meals with families now going to bed on empty stomachs.

READ ALSO: We Met Bad Economy, Promise To Make It Better  FG

Moreover, the PDP describes as distressing that the APC government had turned a blind eye to the plight of Nigerians with no concrete commitment towards the safety of lives of our citizens despite the killing of over 500 Nigerians in Plateau, Benue, Niger, Kaduna and other States of the federation, with many more abducted since May 29, 2023.

The failure of the APC government to decisively act since the abduction of eight corps members who were on their way to Sokoto State for their one-year mandatory national service is another ugly testament of the APC governments insensitivity towards the security, safety and wellbeing of citizens.

More disturbing is the recent downing of a Nigerian military aircraft with attendant loss of lives of our brave and gallant military personnel without a corresponding reassuring statement from the APC government, the PDPs statement read.

According to the opposition Party, the current life expectancy in the country under the government produced by the APC has plummeted.

Currently, under the APC, life expectancy in Nigeria has plummeted. Citizens and residents live in constant apprehension and cannot move freely across the country for fear of being killed or abducted.

Instead of protecting Nigerians, the APC government is desperate to plunge our nation into a needless war in Niger Republic over a conflict in that nation that does not constitute any threat whatsoever to our National Interest.

Our Party is concerned that the general sense of despondency, anxiety, distress and disconnection in the country, if not urgently addressed, could deteriorate into a serious crisis, they added.

The PDP urged Nigerians to remain calm, and law-abiding and continue to support one another in their quest for a secure and economically thriving nation.
Operatives of Delta Police Command has said that it has arrested over 100 gay suspects in the South-South state.

In a tweet via its Twitter handle on Tuesday, the command said the suspects were arrested at a suspected gay wedding ceremony in a hotel in the state.

The command added that the suspects would soon be paraded for the whole world to see them.

READ MORE: Court Remands Man For Calling Friend Gay In Kano

Delta State Command has arrested over a hundred gay suspects in a hotel carrying out a gay wedding ceremony.

We will be going live shortly on Facebook to parade the said suspects, it captioned.

https://t.co/Jv8vSx1si1 The Link to the Live Video on Facebook. pic.twitter.com/edUMJqbxg6  Delta State Police Command (@DeltaPoliceNG) August 29, 2023

INFORMATION NIGERIA learnt that since the anti-gay law was passed in 2014, homosexuals have been arrested and paraded by security operatives in the country.

On 31st of December 2021, Police cracked down on homosexuals in a hidden brothel in Isolo, Lagos.

19 young people were in 2022 arrested in Kano for allegedly attending a same-sex wedding.
??Ahora en vivo | El ministro @AlexContreras_M presenta el Marco Macroeconomico Multianual 2024-2027 con las proyecciones macroeconomicas y fiscales del pais.



??Sigue la transmision en vivo: https://t.co/3ryFiSnIaw
The Lagos State House of Assembly has clarified allegations surrounding the refusal to confirm 17 commissioner nominees recommended by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu.

Recall that on August 23, the State House of Assembly declined to confirm 17 out of 39 commissioner nominees of which six former commissioners who served in the first term of Sanwo-Olu were among the nominees not cleared.

The former commissioners are Gbenga Omotoso (Information and Strategy); Akin Abayomi (Health); Cecilia Dada (Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation); Olalere Odusote (Energy Resources); Folashade Adefisayo (Education) and Sam Egube (Economic Planning and Budget).

Following this, the Christian Rights of Nigeria (CRN) accused the legislature of rejecting the nominees on religious grounds, adding that the houses resolution was a move to stoke religious tensions in the State.

The group furthered that the decision of the Lagos assembly was motivated by the pure blackmail comment of the Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC).

READ ALSO: Pure Blackmail From MURIC  Christian Group Knocks Lagos Assembly For Rejecting Commissioner Nominees On Religious Grounds

However, speaking during plenary, Speaker of the Assembly, Mudashiru Obasa, said there is no fight between the house and the Governor.

According to him, the house is not going to be threatened by the civil organisations who wish to protest.

There is no basis for the house or myself to fight the governor. The governor is a friend and colleague in serving Lagos State.

Whenever the house says no to a governors request, it is interpreted as the house fighting the governor.

Obasa added that, We will continue to work together and there is no reason to fight. But we have constitutional rights to say yes or no to his nominees.

If anybody wishes to know the reason for the decision, they should approach the house. We will not be forced to spill our observations, and we reserve the right to expose the report of the screening.
The Edo State Government has corrected impressions that Governor Godwin Obaseki, was aware that his Deputy, Phillip Shaibu, was denied access to see him on Sunday.

Information Nigeria reports that crisis almost erupted at the New Festival Hall of the Government House in Benin, the State capital, when an operative of the Department of State Services (DSS) prevented Shaibu from meeting with the Governor.

Shaibu attended the thanksgiving church service to mark the 32nd anniversary of the creation of the state, and at a moment caught sight of the governor who sat with his wife.

The deputy governor tried to make his way to the governor but was denied access by the security operative as Obaseki looked on.

Andrew Okungbowa, the Governors Chief Press Secretary, reacting to the incident on Monday, said Obaseki was not aware of the security actions.

READ ALSO: My Loyalty To Obaseki Remains Absolute  Shaibu

Whatever happened at the church service was not at the behest of the governor, nor was he aware of what the security aides were doing.

In fact, the security aides were doing their job.

Besides, the governor was not aware that the deputy was coming to greet him.

The church is a public event, so the security aides had a duty to safeguard their principal.

Speaking after the event, Shaibu said his loyalty to the governor remains unshakeable.

His words: The vow I have made with God is that I will continue to support Godwin Obaseki as the governor of Edo state from the beginning to the end, he said.

But that does not stop anything that has to do with ambition. Ambition is personal and it does not affect loyalty.
Director, Army Public Relations, Brig-Gen Onyema Nwachukwu, said: The rescued persons include six women and eight children.

In a similar operation on Sunday, troops of 82 Task Force Battalion in conjunction with Hybrid Force, raided Boko Haram enclave in Gava Village in Gwoza Local Government Area of Borno State and rescued 11 civilians.

READ MORE: Niger Ambush: Well Avenge Killing Of Our Troops  Defence Chief

All rescued victims are presently in troops custody undergoing profiling.

In a separate operation also on Sunday, seven members of a Boko Haram family surrendered to troops of 81 Division Task Force Battalion in Dikwa Local Government Area of Borno State. The family comprised three adults and four children.

He added that in another anti-banditry operation on Sunday in Kaduna State, troops of 2 Battalion, acting on actionable information neutralised one criminal and freed four kidnap victims in Kwana Shehu Village in Birnin Gwari Local Government Area of Kaduna State.

He said: The rescued victims have since been reunited with their families.

Members of the public are please enjoined to support the troops with credible information to enhance ongoing operations across the country.
The Edo State Government has disbanded the media crew attached to Philip Shaibu, Deputy Governor of the State.

Information Nigeria had reported that on Monday, Shaibu staged a walk-out at an event in the state after his aides, including security operatives, were denied entry.

Shaibu was allowed into the venue of the 60th anniversary of the Midwest referendum organised by the State Government, however, his entourage was stopped from gaining entry to the event.

Chris Nehikhare, States Commissioner of Information, said the Edo government has now directed that Shaibu should henceforth make a request to the ministry of information for media coverage of activities of his office.

Edo State Government has disbanded the media crew attached to the Office of the Deputy Governor, with a directive to the Deputy Governor to henceforth request the Ministry of Communication and Orientation for media coverage of activities of his office, Nehikhare stated.

According to him, the directive was due to the ugly and unfortunate incident during the colloquium organised to celebrate the Midwest referendum.

READ ALSO: Drama As Edo Deputy Gov. Angrily Leaves Venue Of State Celebration (Video)

The commissioner posited that the orchestrated and stage-managed walkout of Shaibu and his aides at the event was highly regrettable.

He claimed that the journalists who claimed to be part of Shaibus media crew attempted to force their way into the hall of the event.

This act was contrary to the accreditation protocol that had been established for media coverage of the event.

Note that, over the past few weeks, the States Governor, Godwin Obaseki and Shaibu have been at loggerheads over issues pertaining to the alleged impeachment plot against the deputy governor.

In July, Shaibu approached a federal high court in Abuja with a suit to prevent the plot.

However, Obaseki and Blessing Agbebaku, speaker of the Edo house of assembly, denied the alleged impeachment plot.

At the weekend, Shaibu described Obaseki as his elder brother, while pledging his loyalty to the Governor.
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has confirmed that President Bola Tinubu has approved N2 billion as palliative for the FCT.

The minister made this known on Monday when he met with contractors in his office after the maiden Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting of the current administration.

Confirming the approval of the two billion as palliative for FCT residents, the former Governor of Rivers State, indicated that the fund will primarily solve the challenges of transportation.

READ MORE: Stop Congratulatory Billboard Messages In My Honour  Wike Tells Well-Wishers

He declared that although the Federal Government is looking to increase funding for projects, the FCT Administration will also consider its internally generated revenue.

Wike also warned that there would be no room for excuses from contractors.

Recall that President Tinubus led-administration had earlier approved billions of naira for the 36 states of the federation and the FCT to enable them to cushion the impact of the fuel subsidy removal on the people.
In the early 1990s, John Ollman, the longtime Philadelphia gallerist, needed to find the rare and stunning stonework of sculptor William Edmondson for his forthcoming show. A self-taught sculptor from Nashville, Edmondson was an undeniable talent in the art world and Ollman fell in love with his smooth and curvy limestone figures.

While searching, Ollman received a surprising call from someone promising an Edmondson work that had been considered lost for decades.

Paul W. McCloskey, living in Chevy Chase, Md., had heard of Ollmans show, and had met Edmondson while he was stationed in Nashville during World War II. Contrary to what Edmondsons followers believed for 50 years, the sculpture Miss Louisa wasnt lost  she had been sitting on McCloskeys parents porch in Chestnut Hill.

I said, Oh, my God, that piece has been lost forever! And he said, No, it wasnt, I knew where it was  nobody was smart enough to find out where it went,  Ollman, 81, recalled, laughing.

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The gallerist, who lives in Bella Vista and runs the Fleisher / Ollman Gallery in Callowhill, used Miss Louisa in his 1995 show before helping McCloskey donate the work to the Philadelphia Museum of Art.

Currently, Miss Louisa is one of the 60-plus Edmondson sculptures on display at the Barnes Foundation in William Edmondson: A Monumental Vision, running through Sept. 10.

During their 1995 call, McCloskey relayed to Ollman that at some time in the 1940s he had noticed Miss Louisa in the window of a bank and visited Edmondsons home, where the front yard was his workshop. It was rare to meet a collector who had purchased from Edmondson directly, Ollman said. So he grilled McCloskey for information, first for the provenance of Miss Louisa and second, to hear more about the legendary sculptor who was the first Black artist to have a solo show at New Yorks Museum of Modern Art.

Edmondson, now a prestigious Outsider artist whose sculptures have sold for as much as $785,000, was the son of a formerly enslaved couple. He worked as a railroad worker, farmhand, and hospital orderly before picking up limestone carving later in his life around 1932. He said that God came to him in a vision and instructed him to begin carving tombstones, which he crafted for Black cemeteries in Nashville before continuing to sculpt other figures, like Eleanor Roosevelt, which is also in the Barnes exhibit. (Another sculpture on view, Martha and Mary, had been considered lost for many years before a collector saw it on a porch in St. Louis in 2019; he called it a Holy Grail.)

Just a few years into his efforts at chiseling limestone into angels, animals, and depictions of his neighbors, Edmondson had a solo exhibition at MoMA in 1937. Though his talent was given enormous recognition, the art world and newspapers viewed Edmondson through racist and degrading stereotypes. Media coverage focused on his lack of formal education and called him a modern primitive.

Some of the most popular images of Edmondson were taken by Louise Dahl-Wolfe of Harpers Bazaar, who visited his Nashville home and photographed him at work.

One of the challenges with those images is that they played into stereotypes about Black creativity in the 1930s, said Nancy Ireson, chief curator at the Barnes. Edmondson was rural, he was unschooled, things that were framed in very pejorative terms at the time. So how do you try and look at those images again and actually sense his agency within them?

Ireson and her cocurator for the exhibit, James Claiborne, felt the images (that show Edmondson in tattered clothes and broken shoes, feeding into racist narratives) were important to include in the Barnes reexamination of Edmondson. The show isnt simply about granting a greater platform to an artist who was largely overlooked during his lifetime; the exhibit is candid about the ways that racism affected Edmondsons reception in the art world at the time.

In one of Dahl-Wolfes images, Edmondson stands in front of Miss Louisa. Shortly afterward, the sculpture fell out of public view when McCloskey bought and shipped it to Philadelphia. The photo is partially autobiographical for the sculptor, too.

When McCloskey asked about the sculptures inspiration, Edmondson told him that she represented an unrequited love. The woman stands holding a hat because she is returning it to a suitor whose proposal of marriage she had rejected. The suitor, the artist implied, was Edmondson himself.

The sculptor posed with Miss Louisa in 1937. As he stares into the sky with a soft smile, he looks hopeful and incredibly poised. Maybe God told him, too, that nearly 90 years later, the world would still be studying the depths of his creative imprint, attempting to understand his visions for decades to come.

William Edmondson: A Monumental Vision runs at the Barnes Foundation through Sept. 10.
From a vantage point looking northeast from Broad Street, a rendering of Philadelphia Ballet's newly expanded dance center as it will appear when finished. A dance studio is shown in the glass box atop the structure. Read more

Nearly a year after a ceremonial groundbreaking for Philadelphia Ballets new headquarters on North Broad Street, no actual ground has been broken and construction has yet to begin.

The project has been set back by various factors pertaining to financing, the ballet says, though the long-planned addition to the companys existing facilities remains a go.

Weve been working diligently and are still 100% committed to the building happening, says ballet executive director Shelly Power. Its so important to the organization, and we feel its going to leverage all of our strategic goals for the school, the company, and for continuing to build new audiences.

Dancers, ballet leaders, philanthropists, and government leaders gathered at the site on Broad Street near Callowhill on Sept. 29 to mark the groundbreaking. Construction was expected to begin shortly thereafter with the five-story, 43,000-square-foot addition opening in the spring of 2024.

But the ballet hit delays on multiple fronts, Power says.

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Things are just taking longer  underwriting, material and labor, financing. Were working closely with all our partners and were  moving forward, she says. We just need to be a bit more patient.

The price tag for the project has inched up  to $37.5 million from the $34 million estimate a year ago, and it could change again. This fluctuates depending on when everything falls into place, the cost of goods and labor and all that, says Power.

Power says she now hopes construction can begin in October, which would mean an opening in April 2025. The ballet currently occupies studios and offices in a building set back from Broad Street, and the expansion would give the company a street-front presence on North Broad Street with offices, a new black box theater, public spaces, and a glassed-in dance studio on the top floor. The addition would more than triple the square footage the ballet now has.

Fundraising has continued. At groundbreaking, the company had raised nearly $21.8 million, and now, about a year later, the number has reached almost $26.3 million.

The ballet is seeking the rest of the money from private donors and foundations, and hopefully well be blessed with more state funding. That would be extremely helpful, Power says.

So far, the project has received $5.2 million through the commonwealths Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program.

The goal is to put up the building without incurring any long-term debt, but we are planning for all scenarios.

Power expects that putting an actual  and not just a ceremonial  shovel in the ground will help to fire up more donations.

Once they see the building being built, people will be motivated.
A group of residents has fought to halt the sale of Towamencin's sewer system. Township officials have said they would use the proceeds to retire its debt and fund projects. Read more

Over the past year, residents in a Montgomery County town have rallied political opposition against a proposed $115 million sale of their public sewer system to a private company.

Activists in Towamencin Township employed a novel legal strategy to try to stop the sale  by asking voters to prohibit such a deal through a change to the municipalitys governing structure. That effort appeared to score a big win in May, when voters narrowly approved new governance, known as a home rule charter, that says it specifically prohibits such a sale.

But that wasnt the end of the story. The townships five-member Board of Supervisors is moving ahead with the proposal, albeit to a new buyer, saying that canceling the contract would violate state law and the state constitution.

That prompted a lawsuit last week from two residents who want a court order compelling the supervisors to terminate the contract.

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There can be no question regarding the duties of the board of supervisors in this action, as the charter is explicit, unambiguous and does not give the board of supervisors or the township any discretion in complying with its terms, says the lawsuit, filed by Towamencin residents Jennifer Foster and Kofi Osei.

Sales of publicly owned utilities have ramped up since the passage of a 2016 state law, Act 12, which encouraged such consolidation under private ownership. Local elected officials say the cash windfall generated by those sales can fund projects and reduce debt. But some critics have raised concerns that privatization can lead to higher rates for customers. In some towns, rates have increased more than 90% following private acquisitions.

Towamencin officials were shocked last year when Florida-based NextEra Water offered $115.3 million for the sewer system. Officials said they would use the proceeds to retire the towns debt and fund some projects immediately. They also planned to set aside tens of millions of dollars in reserves, which would earn interest that could finance future capital projects.

But residents opposed to the idea organized a ballot initiative asking voters to create a commission to determine whether the town should rewrite its governing charter in an effort to block the sale. In November, the initiative was approved with 61% of the vote. Voters elected seven members to the panel, each of whom was aligned with a slate called Neighbors Opposing Privatization Efforts.

This past spring, the panel drafted a home rule charter prohibiting the sale or long-term lease of potable water, wastewater, and stormwater systems to nongovernmental entities. In the May primary election, voters approved a ballot question formalizing the charter.

But the township didnt give up on the sale. NextEra withdrew from the agreement in March but assigned its contractual rights to Pennsylvania American Water Inc. The supervisors approved the new deal, now for $104 million.

Pennsylvania American, the states largest water company, is seeking approval of its acquisition from the state Public Utility Commission, a five-member board that regulates Pennsylvanias water, gas, electricity, and other utilities. PUC would have to approve any rate increase following a public process designed to balance the needs of consumers and companies.

Laura Martin, senior director for government and external affairs at Pennsylvania American, said the company plans to continue proceeding through the regulatory review and approval process.

Martin said customers would benefit from the companys industry-leading wastewater expertise and capacity to finance necessary capital improvement projects. Pennsylvania American also has the ability to address the environmental compliance challenges of the system and offers improved cybersecurity, customer service, and emergency response on evenings and weekends.

Pennsylvania American, based in Mechanicsburg, serves 760,000 customers in about 400 communities across the state, including in towns such as Norristown, Coatesville, and Yardley.

The board of supervisors has said the relevant legal issue is whether a prospective law can upend a contract.

[T]he township legal team does not believe the passage of the Home Rule Charter negates the sewer sale under current Pennsylvania law and the Pennsylvania Constitution, the board said in a May statement. There is strong legal precedent against overturning preexisting contracts based on the passage of new laws.

H. Charles Wilson III, the board chairman, said late Monday that the allegations in the lawsuit are without merit and factually incorrect and we intend to vigorously defend against the lawsuit.

He added that the township is confident the Public Utility Commission will find the transaction in the public interest due to mounting capital expenditures for the sewer system, environmental challenges, and Pennsylvania Americans proven record of environmental stewardship.
The man accused of killing five people during a multi-day shooting rampage in Kingsessing earlier this summer has been ordered to receive inpatient mental health treatment before his court case can proceed.

A court-appointed psychiatrist found Kimbrady Carriker incompetent to stand trial, his public defender said in court Tuesday. Carriker, 40, will be sent to a state-run psychiatric facility to receive treatment while his criminal case  which is awaiting a preliminary hearing  is put on indefinite hold.

Carriker is accused of fatally shooting five people and wounding several others during a shooting spree in early July around 56th Street and Chester and Springfield Avenues. He faces a host of charges, including first-degree murder, attempted murder, aggravated assault, and illegal gun possession, and is being held without bail.

Investigators initially believed that Carriker shot each victim the night of July 3, which would have made this the deadliest single act of gun violence in Philadelphia in decades. In an unusual twist, they later came to believe that Carriker had actually shot one of his victims  Joseph Wamah, 31  just after midnight on July 2, then returned to the area 44 hours later to begin firing his assault-style rifle in a seemingly indiscriminate manner on the street.

Authorities said their initial, inaccurate account was due to issues including a bungled 911 response after Wamah was shot, as well as a lack of communication between law enforcement and the Medical Examiners Office in the days after the July 3 shooting spree.

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A number of aspects of the case remained unclear Tuesday, including a potential motive, and no new details were revealed during the hearing before Municipal Court Judge Wendy L. Pew. Lawyers did not provide specifics on Carrikers mental health assessment, and he was not present for the proceeding.

After Carriker was arrested near the scene the night of July 3, he told responding officers and detectives that he was trying to help address the citys gun violence crisis, and that God would be sending more people to help him, sources have told The Inquirer. He then declined to answer additional questions, sources said.

Still, it was not clear how or whether Carriker knew Wamah  the only person he is accused of shooting July 2  and authorities are not sure why Carriker returned to the area later, firing shots while walking the streets in body armor and a ski mask.

Those killed on July 3 were identified by police as DaJuan Brown, 15; Lashyd Merritt, 21; Ralph Moralis, 59; and Dymir Stanton, 29. In addition, Octavia Brown, 33, and her twin 2-year-old sons, Jy-Fir and By-Kir, were wounded by bullets or broken glass when Carriker fired at Browns vehicle, police said.

Authorities now believe Carriker went to the 1600 block of 56th Street shortly after midnight on July 2 and fired rifle shots into Wamahs home, killing him. About 90 minutes later, a neighbor called 911, but police said officers were sent to the wrong address, and when a dispatcher called the woman back to seek more details, she hung up.

There were no additional 911 calls regarding Wamahs death over the next two days, police said, even though bullet holes were visible in his front door. His remains lay undiscovered in his house until July 3.

About 8:30 p.m. that night, authorities said, Carriker returned to the area with the same rifle and began firing indiscriminately at people and cars.

As officers were investigating the multi-block crime scene that night, Wamahs father, who had been away, discovered his sons body in the house that the two shared. Police assumed the younger Wamah had been killed during the nearby rampage that night, in part because the fired cartridge casings around his house matched the casings found elsewhere.

Still, by the next day, the Medical Examiners Office had concluded that Wamah had been killed at least 30 hours before the others. But the office did not inform law enforcement officials of that finding for several days, even though it contradicted the account that officials had been giving the public.

It wasnt until July 8 that law enforcement learned of the conflicting autopsy details. And as they continued reexamining the timeline, they discovered the mishandled 911 call from July 2, in which officers were mistakenly dispatched to the 1600 block of North 56th Street, about three miles away from Wamahs house on South 56th Street.

Carriker is due back in court in late October for a status update. His criminal case will not proceed until he is deemed competent to stand trial.
Roseann Morrison holds a painting of her daughter Sahmya Garcia after a candlelight vigil at Broad Street and Washington Avenue. Read more

A Philadelphia man who terrorized his ex-girlfriend for weeks before fatally shooting her as she walked to work was sentenced Monday to 35 to 70 years in prison  a case the young womans friends and family said has brought them irreparable harm.

Marcus Burney, 42, pleaded guilty on Monday to third-degree murder, illegal gun possession, and related offenses after he shot and killed 20-year-old Sahmya Garcia in November.

Burney had been stalking Garcia for weeks after she ended their relationship, according to Garcias roommate. He had assaulted her, and after she left the relationship, Burney would drive around their South Philadelphia neighborhood searching for her. One November morning, after he found out where she was living, he threw a cinder block through the glass front-door of their rowhouse. He threatened her and himself multiple times.

 READ MORE: Loved ones of a young woman slain in a domestic shooting say police didnt do enough to protect her

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Two days later, Burney killed her at the corner of Broad and Ellsworth Streets.

Shortly before 8 a.m. on Nov. 8  just moments after police unsuccessfully tried to serve Garcias protection from abuse order to Burney  he spotted her as she walked to work. He got out of his truck and shot her 10 times with a ghost gun.

On Monday, Common Pleas Court Judge Giovanni Campbell sentenced Burney to 35 to 70 years in prison as part of a plea agreement Burney reached with prosecutors. The deal spared Burney the automatic life sentence he would have received if convicted of first-degree murder at trial, but Campbell nonetheless imposed the maximum sentence for third-degree murder at 20 to 40 years, plus additional time for the illegal gun possession charges.

Still, Garcias family said they were disappointed to learn Burney may one day be eligible for parole.

I dont think justice was served today, said the womans father, Hector Garcia. What was done today was an accommodation to the judicial system.

He was aware that prosecutors had negotiated a plea deal, but said he was disappointed, considering the circumstances of his daughters death.

You planned this out. You looked for her for days before you killed her, said Roseann Morrison, as if speaking to her daughters killer. I dont think he deserved anything less than life.

Burneys lawyer, Edward Meehan, declined to comment.

Our hearts go out to the family of Sahmya Garcia. Even though this is the maximum sentence this defendant could receive for third degree murder, there is no sentence that can restore their terrible loss, a spokesperson for the District Attorneys Office said in a statement.

Garcia was born and raised in South Jersey. She was the third-oldest in a blended family of eight children, and had survived leukemia as a child, her father said.

She was bubbly and outgoing, and could make conversation with a stranger. She loved makeup and tended carefully to her appearance. At the time of her killing, she was working at the Target on Broad Street and Washington Avenue as a security guard.

Garcia met Burney about two years ago, while he was working as a bouncer at a Philadelphia club, a friend said, and she moved into his South Philadelphia home shortly after.

Garcia was private about her life, and her family and many friends were not aware of the abuse she suffered. But she confided in a friend at work, and told her that Burney had assaulted her and almost killed her in the past.

She eventually ended the relationship and, taking only what she could carry, moved in with a friend in South Philadelphia. But Burneys violence escalated.

Garcia was hospitalized briefly from his abuse a few weeks before she was killed, and had sought help from Philadelphia police, but felt like they did not take her concerns seriously.

Mondays guilty plea is just the latest in Burneys long criminal record, which includes convictions for assault, carrying a gun without a license, and drug possession.

In 2017, he broke into the home of a former partner and punched her, and threatened to kill her, according to court records. The woman obtained a protection-from-abuse order, but Burney continued to stalk her, court records show.

Burney was later arrested for violating the order, according to the records. He pleaded guilty to defiant trespassing and making terroristic threats, and was sentenced to up to a year in prison, and at least two years probation.

Although he is prohibited from owning a gun, Burney later acquired a ghost gun  the largely unregulated and untraceable weapons that law enforcement officials say are flooding Philadelphias streets  which he used to shoot Garcia, according to city prosecutors.

Burney did not address Garcias loved ones in the court Monday, her father said.

But he was able to address him.

I told him that I hope God has mercy on his soul, he said. Hes going to need it.

Hector Garcia recalled how, at one point, Burney told the judge he understood he committed a terrible crime, but that he did not think he deserved to spend the rest of his days in a cell. And as Burney considered the plea deal, the judge allowed him to call his mother for advice on what to do, Garcia said.

He got to call his mother, Morrison said. But my daughter never gets to call me ever again.

Morrison said she did not have the strength to attend Mondays hearing. She felt physically ill and as if her heart was going to explode, she said  a feeling thats grown all-too-familiar since her daughters death.

But had she been there, she said, she would have told him this:

I dont know what kind of heart you have to be able to do that to a young girl. ... You released whatever anger from your life out on her. Youre an animal, and you have an ugly, dark heart.
Para mayor paz y tranquilidad a las familias, el premier Otarola presento el Plan Seguridad: No queremos mas robos y se va a legislar para ello. Las requisitorias deben estar vigentes hasta que se capture al agresor, delincuente, terrorista o narcotraficante. pic.twitter.com/NK7u32IJOp
Over the outrage of community members who said Pennridge was pushing a political agenda into classrooms, the school board on Monday approved a new curriculum crafted by a consultant with ties to the conservative Hillsdale College  a directive that one resident called disgusting.

The Republican-led board delayed the implementation of the elementary social studies curriculum for one year, acknowledging teachers worried they didnt have time to prepare with school already underway. (A new ninth-grade civics, economics and government curriculum, and seventh and eighth grade reading courses, were approved for the current year.)

But the boards majority defended its decision to enlist Jordan Adams, the consultant recently employed by Hillsdale, and to require that teachers consult the colleges 1776 Curriculum as a resource  despite intense criticism from parents fearing inaccuracy and partisan bias, and warnings from some educators that it would weaken the instruction offered by the district.

It is my sincere belief that approving the curriculum in its current form would be a mistake that undermines the quality of education we should strive to provide our students, Jim Kearney, a parent of two Pennridge students who is assistant director of teaching and learning for the Radnor School District, told the board Monday.

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Kearney, a former social studies teacher who serves on the National Constitution Centers Teacher Advisory Board, and has developed social studies curricula in Pennsylvania and nationally, said the new curriculum exhibits significant pedagogical and content-related shortcomings. He also said that Hillsdales curriculum  promoted by the college amid a broader conservative backlash to the New York Times 1619 Project  hadnt garnered endorsements from nonpartisan historian associations.

Pennridges embrace of Hillsdale provides a stark reminder of the detrimental effects to our community when politics informs education, instead of education informing politics, Kearney said.

At a meeting last week, Pennridge teachers spoke out against the curriculum changes, including the push to adopt revamped social studies courses for first through fifth graders on the first day of school  before theyd had time to prepare lesson plans.

Responding to those concerns, board members voted to adopt the elementary curriculum next year. But those in control of the board voiced support for the partnership with Adams  whose nascent consulting company, Vermilion, was tapped by the district in April, and who told those gathered for a convention of the conservative group Moms for Liberty in June that he was the fox in the henhouse of school districts  and contended that the new curriculum was more rigorous than what Pennridge had been offering.

They also indicated they werent satisfied leaving curriculum development solely in the hands of the districts employees.

We also had asked numerous times, we dont want sexualized and biased material pushed in. And again there was stuff pushed in, said board member Megan Banis-Clemens. She didnt give examples but complained that reading courses had been too doom and gloom, and should feature more inspirational stories.

In an email to the board, Adams, who lives in Michigan, said he was surprised that the districts social studies supervisor had publicly disagreed with some of his recommendations during a meeting last week. He said that lest Vermilion Education be accused of minimizing or removing instruction on challenging or violent topics from history, the district had already planned to scale back lessons on Native Americans as part of revisions to the third-grade curriculum.

He also listed numerous resources and lesson plans that he said stood out as potentially prejudiced, biased, inappropriate, or partisan, including a 12th-grade course titled Social Issues in Todays World that asks students to identify the concepts of stereotypes, prejudice, racism, and discrimination and describe manifestations of racial and ethnic inequality in the United States.

Many of these topics and activities may be handled in an unbiased and nonpartisan manner, but many are also typically associated with a one-sided treatment and without clarity or explicit parameters on how to address these items, exposing teachers to accusations of bias or ideology, Adams said in the email.

Some who spoke in favor of the curriculum accused teachers of pushing a liberal agenda. One woman said her grandchildren have been traumatized with all the federal influence on schools, and called Hillsdale, a Christian school, an honorable college with good moral values.

Another man said he agreed that teachers werent prepared for the new curriculum  because they have been political activists in the classroom for so long, they couldnt appropriately teach children the role of citizenship.

The curriculum supporters drew some applause. Over the weekend, a group called Hope for PA issued a call for talented clappers, even if they lived outside the district, to attend and applaud the board for creating a curriculum that includes children learning about the blessings of living in the United States.

But the loudest cheers came from those speaking out against the proposals. One woman said she was presenting her seventh graders principal with a form to opt out of Vermilions curriculum while also looking at schools outside the district.

My son loves history ... and Im horrified that this is what he could be learning, she said, so its really disgusting that its come to this.

(Opt-out demands create a problem, noted Joan Cullen, a board member opposed to Vermilion: This isnt just something where you can say, I dont want my child to read The Kite Runner. His suggestions are woven throughout the curriculum.)

While some in favor of the curriculum pointed out that Pennsylvanias school code specifies that history courses should emphasize the good, worthwhile, and best features of the development of the United States and the high standard of living of U.S. citizens, a lots changed since the code was written in 1949, April Fultz, of West Rockhill, told the board.

America is exceptional in many ways ... but there are ways in which were still not exceptional, Fultz said. To pretend otherwise is disingenuous.
A batch of Scrunchums at Sugar Crunch in Lindenwold, Camden County. Skittles are the only ingredient in Scrunchums, which are producing by heating and vacuum-drying the candy. Read more

A contractor from Philly and a musician from Jersey were cultivating micro versions of spinach, radishes, and broccoli part-time last spring to make more money for their families. But these were just salad fodder. Friends, entrepreneurs, and dads Phil Kramer and Tommy Sandelier turned to something new: making freeze-dried candies with names like Banana Floofy and Peach Puffoids.

The two produce the candy by hand at their Sugar Crunch Candy company in Lindenwold, Camden County.

Their start-up buys marshmallows and salt water taffies, as well as branded candies such as Skittles and Nerds, and transforms them in commercial-grade vacuum drying ovens into new sweets with names like Scrunchums and Cosmic Clouds,

Kramer and Sandelier credit social media as well as their own kids for inspiring their candy business.

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The future of candy is our tagline, so everything has a futuristic vibe, Sandelier said. Were making up words and we used AI to generate suggestions.

We had a video call with all the kids to brainstorm the colors of the logo and the packaging, said Kramer. We wanted our logo to pop, and to have the kids agree on everything.

Kramer and Sandelier started selling the candies online and from their Micro Sprout Farm booth at farmers markets in Haddon Heights and Haddonfield. Their sweets are now being distributed by the Casani Candy Co., a wholesaler founded in Philadelphia in 1865.

I saw freeze-dried candy last year, and it never really struck my fancy. But this year I started hearing more of a buzz, Casani owner Joe Lees said. The company is now headquartered in Pennsauken, where Sandelier began buying candy in bulk last spring.

Customers were telling me they had kids coming in their stores for freeze-dried candy, and I asked Tom to bring some in to see we could do with it, Lees said.

And it just took off from there.

Somewhat similar to cotton candy, and conceptually related to the freeze-dried Astronaut Ice Cream introduced in 1974 and still on the market, freeze-dried candy has had a surge on social media.

A Google search yields hundreds of posts  most made during or since the pandemic  by Amazon.

I saw the candy trending on TikTok in 2020, said Ariana Kramer, 13, from behind the Micro Sprout booth recently at the Haddon Heights Farmers Market where she was helping out her dad.

I thought our candy was going to do well, but not this well, she said. I didnt think it would blow up this big this fast.

That puts Sugar Crunch right on trend. According to the National Confectioners Association, non-chocolate candy is increasing in popularity, with sales up nearly 14% since 2021. Chocolate and other candy sales in the U.S. reached $42.6 billion in 2022. Most customers find new candy on social media.

Sandelier, a 40-year-old father of two who lives in Gibbsboro, Camden County, prefers the term vacuum-crafted for Sugar Crunch creations.

The candy is heated in a vacuum, in the oven, which draws out the moisture and makes the candy pop, he said. The candy isnt frozen as part of the process. But everyone knows this type of candy as freeze-dried.

Sugar Crunch hits your taste buds all at once, said Kramer, 44, who lives with his three children in Philly.

The gummy candies are more of a crisp. The Skittles are definitely a crunch, and the Jolly Rancher are more of a crunch, not a crisp.

According to a 2022 analysis by Grand View Research, a nationwide consulting firm based in San Francisco, the annual American candy market is expected to continue growing through 2030.

Kandy Hughes, who owns Kellys Kandy and Nuts in Collingdale and Kellys Kandy in West Chester, said Sugar Crunch is totally different from anything Ive seen during 40 years in the family business.

My 15-year-old daughter, Jo, keeps me up on everything thats hot on social media, and she told me, Mom, you need freeze-dried candy in your stores, she said.

That was almost the same time that [Lees] reached out to me about it. Ive known him for 40 years and he knows what we love to carry. He knows that if its new and fresh, Im going to jump on it.

Sandelier, who grew up in South Florida, came to Philly in the 1990s to attend the University of the Arts, became a professional musician before finishing his degree, and continues to perform as a wedding band guitarist for a living. And as a single dad with two daughters, he has tried his hand at a number of entrepreneurial ventures, including making soap and other personal care products.

He also said that while the microgreens business will continue for the time being, I could see it going away at some point.

On April 22, at the Ales on Rails event in Mount Ephraim, we sold 45 bags of the candy, said Sandelier.

Last week, between Casani and the farmers markets, we sold over 1,600.

Im not surprised that candy sells better than health food, he said.
Main Street Grill in Lewiston, Idaho, making a 700-foot-long cheesesteak on Aug. 26. It now holds the unofficial world record for longest cheesesteak. Read more

Theres a new record for the worlds longest cheesesteak  and it belongs to a diner in Idaho.

Yes, Idaho.

The Main Street Grill in Lewiston claimed the unofficial title Aug. 26 when they built a behemoth 722.8-foot-long cheesesteak as part of the picturesque towns summer festival celebration.

We wanted to do something that was inspirational for our valley, said Frank Webster, the executive chef of Happy Day Restaurants, the corporation that owns the Main Street Grill. The Idaho effort bested the previous record held by a place called the Steak Thyme Bar & Grill in Miamisburg, Ohio  yes, Ohio  which created a 650.3-foot-long cheesesteak in May to celebrate a year in business. (They made it in the restaurants parking lot.)

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Breathe. Actual Philadelphians have held the record in the past.

In 2021, more than a dozen Philly chefs and restaurants collaborated to build a 510-foot cheesesteak that stretched three blocks through the Italian Market. That combined effort was led by French chef Rene Kobeitri, owner of Rim Cafe at Ninth and Federal, as part of his own birthday celebration. That enormous cheesesteak included offerings from restaurants including South Philly Barbacoa, Yakitori Boy, and the now-closed Greek restaurant, Koukouzeli. (There was some debate if the finished product actually counted as one sandwich.)

I make that one just for fun, said Kobeitri on Tuesday. I dont care about Guinness. I am my own Guinness.

In 2015, a 480-foot steak created by Steves Prince of Steaks inaugural Philadelphia Cheesesteak Festival at Lincoln Financial Field was billed as the worlds largest.

Lets put it this way, Philly is the town for cheesesteaks, said Steve Iliescu, owner of Steves Prince of Steaks, when told of the new record.

Although both the Idaho and Ohio restaurants claimed to be vying for the Guinness World Record for longest cheesesteak, they may have only won bragging rights.

Thats because Guinness World Records does not monitor a record title for largest cheesesteak, said Kylie Galloway, a Guinness spokesperson. The most similar record, she said, is longest torpedo (submarine) sandwich. That record has been held for 44 years by chefs in Peekskill, N.Y. who built a 1058-foot-long sandwich on one continuous loaf of bread in 1979.

Webster, who lives in Idaho but has Jersey ties, said he is currently trying to register the record with Guinness.

There are so many things you have to do in order to capture a record, Webster said. We had to fill out paperwork and had to videotape actually making the product from start to finish.

It may seem like heresy that a Idaho town of about 35,000, some 2,500 miles away from Pats and Genos, could hold any record having to do with Philly cheesesteaks. After all, the Main Street Grill makes its top-selling cheesesteaks with shredded rib eye, but also Swiss cheese and mayo, Webster said. (For the record winner, the restaurant used a special Monterey Jack cheese sauce to better keep the sandwIch hot.)

 READ MORE: How to order a Philly cheesesteak, the right way

Webster, whose family is originally from Absecon, N.J., said his cheesesteak was made with a pride that Philadelphians could respect. By selling 6-inch portions of the 700-footer, the restaurant, which opened in 1988, raised over $10,000 for the local Boys and Girls club, he said. More than anything Lewiston, which is named for Meriwether Lewis of Lewis and Clark fame, and tucked along the banks of the Snake River, needed something to be proud of, Webster said.

We dont have much here  were a small community, he said. Everybody loves a Philly cheesesteak.
Rick Tarleton (right), who leads a team of researchers at the University of Georgia that has developed a promising new drug for the treatment of Chagas disease, with researcher Angel Padilla. Read more

When Maira Gutierrez was diagnosed with Chagas disease in 1997, neither she nor her primary care physician had even heard of the malady. She discovered her illness only by chance, after participating in a Red Cross blood drive organized by her employer, Universal Studios.

The Red Cross tests donated blood for a range of diseases, including Chagas, which is caused by a parasite and can develop silently for decades before causing symptoms. The test detected Chagas in her body, and an MRI years later, in 2013, confirmed it had reached her heart.

They showed me the image with the trace of the parasite to my heart. It was really scary, Gutierrez, originally from El Salvador, said in Spanish. Now 50, she remains healthy but undergoes a battery of tests annually to monitor for heart damage.

Trypanosoma cruzi, the parasite that causes Chagas, is transmitted through an insect called the triatomine bug, known as the kissing bug, because it usually bites close to the lips. The bugs defecate on the skin, and the feces, which can contain the parasite, can enter a persons body through the nose, mouth, or breaks in the skin.

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Chagas disease affects people primarily in rural Latin America, where the insect thrives in thatched roofs and mud walls. It is not transmitted from person to person, except for a mother passing it to a newborn, or through blood transfusions or organ transplants.

But its increasingly present in the United States, where it often goes unrecognized: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates more than 300,000 people living in the U.S. have Chagas, though lack of awareness and testing means only 1% of cases have been identified.

Doctors, researchers, and patient advocates say the nation could be doing far more to combat Chagas, which causes serious heart disease in an estimated 30% of infected people and can also lead to crippling digestive problems such as enlargement of the esophagus and colon. They are pushing for increased access to testing and treatment and are optimistic about a new drug thats set for human trials next year. A bill in Congress to up funding for rare diseases, which supporters hope will be debated in the fall, could help too.

Still, in the U.S., there is a tremendous lack of awareness about this disease, said Rachel Marcus, a cardiologist and the medical director of the Latin American Society of Chagas, who runs a Chagas testing clinic in northern Virginia. We were taught that it is something we dont see in the United States.

A large proportion of those with Chagas are from Latin America, and many are living in the U.S. without legal permission. Marcus notes that many of those most at risk from Chagas use community health centers that could be testing sites but have limited resources and tend to focus on more common conditions such as high blood pressure and diabetes.

Chagas initially produces flu-like symptoms but can then go unnoticed for decades while it reproduces in the body. Drug treatments can sometimes eradicate the parasite, especially in its first stages, but the window for early detection is short: It does not stay in the bloodstream for long, instead migrating to tissues and organs, where it is harder to detect.

Often by the time a patient sees a doctor, that person has already developed serious complications, including heart rhythm abnormalities or a dilated heart that doesnt pump blood well. Patients may eventually need pacemakers or heart transplants.

It is a disease resulting from systemic failures in the health care system, said writer Daisy Hernandez, author of The Kissing Bug: A True Story of a Family, an Insect, and a Nations Neglect of a Deadly Disease. In her book, Hernandez tells the story of her aunt Dora, who was diagnosed with Chagas in the U.S. Before, in her country, Colombia, she had an exploratory surgery because of a swollen stomach and the doctors told her that she had the intestines of 10 people due to the amount of inflammation. No one suspected it could have been caused by the Chagas parasite.

Hernandez said interviews with over 70 doctors and patients convinced her that the real barrier to Chagas care is inaction.

While a person living in Virginia who is originally from Bolivia [where Chagas is endemic] knows that if diagnosed with Chagas, they should start saving up for a pacemaker, Hernandez said in Spanish, here, the government does nothing and doesnt even know what the disease is.

Between 6 and 7 million people worldwide live with the parasite. In the U.S., two long-standing drugs have had FDA approval: benznidazole and nifurtimox, which can beat back the parasite but dont always eradicate it. The medications can have serious side effects, and are most effective if given early: Babies born with Chagas have a 90% cure rate if treated within their first year of life.

To combat the disease, doctors familiar with Chagas recommend testing pregnant women from at-risk communities and urge earlier treatments. They also advocate screening all transplant organs. In 2018, a Connecticut man died after receiving a heart infected with the Chagas parasite, prompting a lawsuit and calls for mandatory organ screening. The organization that governs transplant policies in the U.S. recently voted to require such testing.

Few facilities in the country screen for Chagas. Advocates say that with greater awareness, many health care providers could conduct initial screenings and, if positive, send results to the CDC for confirmation.

However, building awareness has been an uphill battle. The Center of Excellence for Chagas Disease, the only center in the U.S. dedicated to Chagas diagnosis and treatment, recently suspended operations after its longtime director, Sheba Meymandi, retired.

A pioneer in the diagnosis and treatment of Chagas, Meymandi said she is still working as a volunteer at Olive View-UCLA Medical Center in Los Angeles, where the center was based, to ensure her patients receive care. The political leadership has stopped supporting the center, and we no longer actively conduct tests, Meymandi said. Now, she refers Chagas patients to the cardiology clinic.

A spokesperson for the countys Department of Public Health wrote in a statement that the center is not technically closed, and that treatment of Chagas patients with heart conditions had been taken over by the cardiology department at the UCLA hospital. But at least for now it is not offering general screening for Chagas infection. California has the most Chagas cases of any state.

Another hope for beating Chagas lies in new drugs. Rick Tarleton, the head of the Tarleton Research Group in the University of Georgias Department of Cellular Biology, said his group had collaborated with Anacor Pharmaceuticals to identify and optimize compounds that could kill the T. cruzi parasites. They had found one.

It could completely eradicate the infection in mice and in nonhuman primates, Tarleton said.

The team tested the compound on 19 macaques at a research center in Texas that had acquired the parasite naturally. The infection was defeated, the monkeys had no significant side effects, and they are still clinically healthy after more than five years.

Tarletons team also observed that some of the parasites can become dormant, making them resistant to drug treatment. As a result, Tarleton said, its critical not only to develop more effective drugs, but to optimize timing of treatments.

Tarleton and his team hope to launch a clinical trial of the compound next year.

There is also some hope on the political front. Sen. Cory Booker (D-N.J.) reintroduced the Study, Treat, Observe, and Prevent (STOP) Neglected Diseases of Poverty Act in February to address the growing health problem posed by maladies like Chagas spreading in low-income communities. The list also includes dengue fever, leprosy, and chikungunya.

Whenever we go into low-income communities and look for these illnesses, we usually find them, said Peter Hotez, who worked with Bookers office on the legislation and is the dean of the National School of Tropical Medicine at Baylor College of Medicine. Tragically, too often our nation ignores or neglects these communities, and we fail to look.

Meanwhile, Maira Gutierrez, the patient who was lucky to have a diagnosis and a consistent treatment, has some advice for them: Donate blood; at the very least, youll know if you have the parasite, and itll cost you nothing.

KFF Health News is a national newsroom that produces journalism about health issues.
A SEPTA bus operating as a cooling center along Allegheny and Germantown Avenues during the heat wave in June 2021. Read more

The temperature had reached 100 degrees for three consecutive days in Philadelphia, three straight in New York, and two in Baltimore.

But something was dramatically different in Philadelphia during that historic July heat wave in the East 30 years ago.

People in Philly were dying. Lots of them. Yet heat deaths were strangely scarce in New York, Baltimore, and other cities during what was a brutally hot summer.

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Philly was feeling the heat on two fronts. Were these real numbers? And if they were, how could city officials be so inept?

Among those who wondered what was going on were David L. Cohen, who then was Mayor Ed Rendells chief of staff and is now U.S. ambassador to Canada, and his boss.

What neither Rendell nor Cohen realized at the time was that Philadelphia and its medical examiner, the late Haresh Mirchandani, were about to change the way the nation, and the world, view heat dangers. In the process, say health experts, the city was ringing lifesaving alarm bells.

Its quite possible that thousands of lives have been saved, said Laurence Kalkstein, a climatologist and heat-mortality expert who helped develop Philadelphias heat-wave warning system that went into effect two summers later. Variants eventually were adopted in other cities.

Mortality statistics support that assertion. The Southwest saw historic heat this summer, and climate researchers have warned that longer and more-intense heat waves can be expected as the planets temperature rises.

However, in the first 22 summers of the 21st century, heat deaths declined dramatically in Philadelphia compared with the 1990s. Only one has been reported this year in Philly, and just 44 from 2013 through 2022, compared with 400 in the 10-year period ending in 2002. And they have been trending downward across the country.

The summer of 93

Officially, Philadelphia recorded 118 heat-related deaths in the summer of 1993, most of them among older people who lived alone. Unofficially, not everyone believed it.

There was a fair amount of criticism that it was an overcount, said Dean Iovino, a lead meteorologist at National Weather Service office in Mount Holly, who worked in the Philly office that summer.

The medical examiner for Detroit, where Mirchandani was stationed before he came to Philadelphia, dismissed the total and suggested it was the result of sloppy work.

And if the numbers were accurate, that would raise serious questions about an administration that had been in office just 18 months, Cohen said: People might well ask, Why cant the city take care of its aged population.  Rendell sought answers from the Medical Examiners Office and the Health Department.

What Mirchandani had done was to expand the definition of heat deaths to include those in which heat had been determined to be a contributing cause. In the past, the strict criterion was hyperthermia, a core body temperature of 105 degrees at the time of death.

Mirchandani reasoned that in a prolonged hot spell, his investigators wouldnt be able to get to all the bodies quickly enough to ascertain their body temperatures. So he told them to look for forensic evidence, such as closed windows with fans operating.

That summer, in an Inquirer interview, Mirchandani said that on a typical day, we see 15 cases ... and if it suddenly jumps to 40 cases when the temperature is 100 degrees and we go out and see all the windows closed, it was reasonable to conclude that heat was a factor in the excess deaths.

The mayor was sold.

There was some legitimate questions, Cohen added, but we had what we thought what were really legitimate answers.

Both NOAA and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention agreed, concluding that not only was Mirchandani right, but that his method should become the standard. At it turned out, the CDCs excess mortality figures  the number of deaths above daily averages  tracked neatly with Mirchandanis running counts.

Chicago fire

One person who concurred with Mirchandanis method was Edmund Donoghue, the Cook County chief medical examiner in 1995, when 739 heat deaths were recorded in Chicago.

Donoghue also endured blowback, including from Chicago Mayor Richard Daley, who opined that the counts were inflated. Donoghue didnt flinch, and on Monday said, I wouldnt do anything differently. He added that he was grateful to Mirchandani.

When the CDC backed Phillys system, said Donoghue, now a professor of pathology at Western Michigan University, in Kalamazoo, that really helped me.

The tragedy in Chicago further affirmed Mirchandanis methodology, said the weather services Iovino.

Another disaster

We are fortunate that Philadelphia did that in 1993, said Eric Klinenberg, New York University sociology professor who wrote Heat Wave: A Social Autopsy of Disaster in Chicago. People are aware of the dangers of heat waves in a way that they werent before.

He said that traditionally, news media treated them as basic feature pieces, with images of eggs frying on sidewalks. Heat waves dont make for great TV, he said.

They target, poor, old, sick Black people, he said. We have a tendency to treat them as expendable. Heat waves remain silent and invisible killers of silent and invisible people.

Klinenberg, a Chicago native and now a sociology professor at New York University, recalled that in 1995 he was living in Paris, where he read about the disaster in his hometown.

Five years later he would begin his investigation for his book, which was published in July 2002, the year before one of the worst natural disasters in world history  a heat wave in Europe that killed tens of thousands.

Klinenberg said he is haunted by the similarities between what happened there and in Chicago, and has wondered if the tragedy could have been averted had leaders in the European community had been more aware of the Chicago experience.

The shock of the 1993 death toll in Philly, the highest on record, moved the city to mobilize a state-of-the-art heat-response system, said Cohen.

It included setting up cooling centers, alerting block captains to look in on older neighbors, having the Philadelphia Corporation for the Aging, and launching a public campaign to advise people to open their windows if they didnt have air-conditioning.

It went into effect in 1995 and through the summer of 1998 it had saved 270 lives, according to a 2004 study published in the Bulletin of the American Meteorological Society. The annual cost was a mere $100,000.

Through subsequent administrations Philadelphia has retained variants of the original system, and similar programs have been adopted in Chicago, Cincinnati, Dayton, and other cities, said Kalkstein.

We werent trying to be heroes, said Cohen. We werent trying to change the world.
CHAPEL HILL, N.C.  A shooter killed a faculty member in a science building at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill on Monday, police said after a lockdown that paralyzed the campus community as authorities searched for the suspect.

Police arrested the suspect over three hours after the initial reports of shots fired came in from Caudill Labs, officials said at a news conference. Charges were pending, and the suspect was not immediately identified.

University officials also did not immediately identify the staffer who was killed and said it was too soon to offer a possible motive.

This loss is devastating, and the shooting damages the trust and safety that we so often take for granted in our campus community, Chancellor Kevin Guskiewicz said.

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Emergency sirens sounded about two minutes after a 911 caller reported gunfire around 1 p.m. at the laboratory in the heart of the flagship campus, UNC Police Chief Brian James said.

Students and faculty barricaded themselves in dorm rooms, offices and classrooms until the lockdown was lifted around 4:15 p.m.

No other injuries were reported.

Adrian Lanier, a sophomore computer science major, told The Associated Press that he and others sat against a wall in a gym, trying to stay as far away as possible from doors and windows as rumors spread.

No one really felt safe enough to leave. I didnt, Lanier said.

Oliver Katz, an exchange student from Copenhagen Business School in Denmark, said some students crowded into gym locker rooms to get away from windows while others crouched in corners and sat on the floor, he said.

This never happens where Im from, Katz said. It was intense. But I was a little surprised that other people werent panicking that much.

Katz, who has only been on campus for two weeks, said hes worried his home university will bring the exchange students back early. I dont want to leave. I like it here, and I do still feel safe.

During the news conference, Guskiewicz apologized to students who are feeling uncertain about your safety right now.

James, the campus police chief, said it was unclear if the suspect knew the victim. He also said the weapon has not been found.

We are looking for a firearm. It is too early to determine if the firearm was legally obtained, he said.

During the lockdown, the university repeatedly sent alerts urging campus community members to remain sheltered in place.

About two hours after the first alert went out, officers were still arriving in droves, with about 50 police vehicles at the scene and helicopters circling over the school.

It took about an hour and a half to lift the lockdown after the arrest because authorities were making sure they had the right suspect in custody, James said.

Police also had received calls around campus about other potential victims and gunshots that needed to be checked out, he said.

We had to ensure that the entire campus was safe, James said.

The building where gunfire broke out is a stones throw from the schools iconic Bell Tower and just doors down from the store that sells students books and other merchandise.

Classes started at UNC, the nations first public university, a week ago. The university, with about 20,000 undergraduate students and 12,000 graduate students, canceled Tuesday classes.

During the lockdown, a student told TV station WTVD that she had barricaded her dormitory door with her furniture. Another student, speaking softly, described hiding in fear with others in a dark bathroom.

Noel T. Brewer, a professor of health behavior and a 57-year-old married father of two, told the AP by phone  as he hid with colleagues in his locked office during the lockdown  that he was once held at gunpoint in his mothers jewelry store, but that Mondays events were far more stressful.
A mockup of Blazar Token's supposed sponsorship of a NASCAR car that John DeSalvo circulated to victims of his alleged cryptocurrency scam. Read more

When Joel Schwartz let John DeSalvo move into his Atlantic City apartment, the New Jersey lawyer figured that he was helping a friend get back on his feet.

Instead, Schwartz found himself swindled out of thousands of dollars, pulled into an alleged financial scheme by DeSalvos intense personality and charm.

DeSalvos pitch, according to Schwartz, convinced the lawyer to invest heavily into a hot new cryptocurrency called blazar token, a bitcoin-like token that DeSalvo, 47, promised would net massive returns in a short amount of time.

He sucks you in, hes like the spider to the fly, Schwartz said. You want to be involved, you want to trust him. He almost forces you to ignore your instincts.

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Authorities said that Schwartz wasnt the only victim.

Federal prosecutors in New Jersey said this month that DeSalvo, of Marmora, Cape May County, defrauded hundreds of investors out of more than $620,000 in the blazar scheme over six months between late 2021 and mid-2022.

Following a joint investigation with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, DeSalvo was charged with two counts of wire fraud, two counts of securities fraud, and two counts of money laundering.

Prosecutors also alleged that, months before the blazar scheme, DeSalvo promised a small group of people that he would reinvest more than $100,000 of their funds, but instead used that money to invest in cryptocurrency and pay a contractor to renovate his bathroom.

A spokesperson for the New Jersey Office of the Public Defender, which represents DeSalvo, did not return a request for comment.

Before DeSalvo dumped his stake in blazar in May of last year, victims say, their investments appeared to be worth hundreds of thousands of dollars more than what theyd put in. Then, almost overnight, the coins value evaporated.

The blazar scheme was just one of numerous grifts that proliferated during cryptocurrencys meteoric pandemic-era rise. But DeSalvos was unusual in that it specifically targeted law enforcement officers and first responders, drawing them in with the promise that blazars returns would supplement their state pension plans.

Blazar, DeSalvo contended, would be the first cryptocurrency that would be purchased through weekly pre-tax payroll deductions, similar to a 401(k) or IRA account.

Using Facebook groups and word-of-mouth advertising, DeSalvo began selling police officers, firefighters, and emergency medical workers in fall 2021 on the idea that blazar could one day be worth 300% of its value, cushioning them through retirement, prosecutors say.

The pitch worked so well, one victim told The Inquirer, because DeSalvo is himself a former lieutenant with the New Jersey Department of Corrections, giving him an insiders credibility within the tight-knit law enforcement community.

With the proper time and resources, anyone can create a cryptocurrency token. And DeSalvo, who began selling blazar placeholder tokens in fall 2021, allegedly used a variety of falsehoods to bolster his claims that his coin would be one of the best.

The only problem was that, at that point, blazar didnt exist and was never approved by the SEC, prosecutors say.

They allege that DeSalvo told investors they were helping him develop the token and paying for advertising and fees to list it on cryptocurrency exchanges. DeSalvo didnt bring the token to market until April 2022.

One agent, who requested anonymity because of his background in federal law enforcement, told The Inquirer he invested in blazar that spring, pulled in by the fantasy that outsized returns of more than 20% could help pay for his childrens education.

The agent invested a total of about $50,000, including money withdrawn from the childrens college funds.

DeSalvo would end up selling 41 billion of his own blazar tokens that May, just days after listing them for sale on the trading platform PancakeSwap, depressing the price and wiping out his victims investments.

Text messages the agent provided show that up until DeSalvo dumped his coins  worth around $50,000  he continued to operate in sales mode.

I just got the biggest news of our lives, DeSalvo wrote May 8 in a text message with several errors. Told you dont even doubt me! Marketing campaign all over NYC, we have partnered witn one of The richest men in the world.

Cant [expletive] wait, the agent replied. Would love to be able to put my middle and youngest through college in 4 years.

DeSalvo responded, You may buy the college lol.

DeSalvos boasts also included mockups of a supposed NASCAR sponsorship with blazars logo branded across a car, the agent said, and talk of a billboard in Times Square.

Those lofty visions went unrealized. Prosecutors say DeSalvo used investors funds for a variety of illicit reasons, paying personal expenses, day trading in volatile cryptocurrencies, and paying earlier investors in the manner of a Ponzi scheme.

A majority of the $623,000 he raised went into a bank account or crypto wallets controlled by DeSalvo, according to prosecutors, giving him exclusive control of their use.

Schwartz, the lawyer, had DeSalvo move out of his Atlantic City apartment when rumors began to swirl that blazar was a scam. Hes now the administrator of a Facebook group of those targeted by DeSalvo, where victims air grievances and call for their money to be returned.

Schwartz said that when he learned federal prosecutors had charged DeSalvo, he was overcome with relief.

Im sure a lot of other people felt the same way, Schwartz said.
A man and woman have been charged with animal cruelty and endangering the welfare of a child after more than 30 dead dogs were found inside a Burlington County home, police said Tuesday.

Evesham Township police responded Monday to the 600 block of Main Street after someone reported that there were multiple sick or malnourished dogs at the residence, the township police said on Facebook.

Police called the conditions inside the home despicable.

A child living in the home was removed by police and placed in the custody of the New Jersey Division of Child Protection and Permanency, which is now also investigating the case, police said.

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Brandon Leconey, 32, and Rebecca Halbach, 35, were arrested and charged with animal cruelty and endangering the welfare of a child.

Leconey was being held at the Burlington County jail pending a court appearance. Halbach was taken to a hospital for an unrelated medical condition, and was expected to be jailed afterward, police said.

At the home, police found 14 live dogs along with numerous cats and rabbits. Nine of the live dogs, including several in extremely poor health, were taken to Mount Laurel Animal Hospital, police said. One of the dogs had to be euthanized.

Police said that as many as 100 dogs had died at the home, and many were suspected of being buried on the property or were among the more than 30 deceased dogs found inside the residence.

The investigation was ongoing and additional charges were expected to be filed, police said.

Authorities ask that anyone with information for the investigation, including who provided animals to the residents of the home, contact the Evesham Police Department at 856-983-1116.
Mordechai Burnstein, a Jackson resident and a leader in its Orthodox Jewish community, points out a strip of 1-inch black pipe, denoting an eruv attached to a utility pole in Jackson, N.J. on Friday, May 14, 2021. Read more

The New Jersey Attorney Generals Office announced Monday that it had reached a settlement with an Ocean County municipality that allegedly used zoning and land-use powers to discriminate against Orthodox Jews.

Under the settlement, Jackson Township is required to adopt new policies and procedures to protect religious freedom and to repeal ordinances that discriminate against Orthodox Jews. The settlement also includes $275,000 in penalties against the township, and the creation of a $150,000 restitution fund for anyone harmed by the townships actions, the Attorney Generals Office said.

An additional $150,000 in penalties could be applied if the township is found to have violated the settlements consent order, which has been approved by a Superior Court judge. The state lawsuit was filed in 2021.

Jackson Township, known for the Six Flags Great Adventure amusement park, encompasses 100 square miles but has a population of only about 60,000. It neighbors Lakewood Township, which has one quarter the land size but more than twice the population.

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Orthodox Jews make up more than two-thirds of Lakewoods population and have been drawn there for decades because it is the home of Beth Medrash Govoha, the largest yeshiva  an Orthodox Jewish religious school  outside of Israel.

In recent years, Orthodox Jews have turned to Jackson as an alternative to the more congested and urban Lakewood. And those Orthodox Jews allegedly have been facing anti-Semitism from Jackson Townships government and from the community.

In the 2021 lawsuit, the Attorney Generals Office and others accused Jackson Township of passing ordinances for the purpose of preventing Orthodox Jews from building religious schools and dormitories, as well as restricting their religious practices.

Michael Reina, the mayor of Jackson Township, could not be reached for comment Monday. Reina, who was reelected last November to a fourth term as mayor, was a named defendant in the case and signed the consent decree on Aug. 22.

The township issued a statement late Monday night, saying that the current members of the township council were not involved in alleged prior discriminatory conduct, but that the actions of former officials severely weakened the townships legal defense.

Last year, the township settled a similar lawsuit filed in 2020 by the U.S. Department of Justice that accused the township of using discriminatory zoning ordinances against the Orthodox Jewish community to prohibit religious schools and associated dormitories.

 READ MORE: Lawsuits seek to end discrimination against Orthodox Jews in Jackson Township, N.J.

This township council welcomes and embraces people of all faiths, races and ethnic backgrounds. Its time for Jackson Township to move forward, Reina said in a statement when the Justice Department settlement was announced. This governing body is committed to ensuring that we will do just that in order to foster one, united community, respectful of all people who call Jackson home.

As with the federal settlement, the township did not admit wrongdoing to the alleged claims in the lawsuit filed by the New Jersey Attorney Generals Office.

The state and federal complaints followed a lawsuit filed in 2017 against the township for adopting ordinances that effectively targeted Orthodox Jews trying to build religious schools.

In 2021, a federal judge sided with the plaintiffs  Agudath Israel of America and WR Property LLC  and found the ordinances were discriminatory.

That lawsuit remains pending, but may be close to a settlement, said lawyer Donna M. Jennings, who represents the plaintiffs in that case.

Since the federal judges preliminary injunction and the Justice Department settlement announced in June 2022, several religious schools for Orthodox Jews have been approved in Jackson, Jennings said.

The town itself, definitely, theyve gotten better, thats for sure, Jennings said Monday evening.

The New Jersey Attorney Generals Office had alleged that Jackson Township had passed ordinances in 2017 that essentially banned the establishment of yeshivas and dormitories for Orthodox Jews by prohibiting the development of schools in residential zones, and dorms in all zones.

The township enacted a zoning ordinance in 2017 that also effectively prohibited the creation of an eruv, which is a wire boundary that symbolically extends the boundaries of a home to permit outside activities  such as pushing strollers or carrying house keys  on the Sabbath and during the holiday of Yom Kippur. The townships ordinance banned impediments or placement of objects in the public right of way, including the grass between the sidewalk and street.

The township allegedly engaged in discriminatory surveillance of Orthodox Jewish homes to monitor prayer gatherings in 2016 and 2017. And the township allegedly discriminated against the building of sukkot, which are temporary, open-air structures used to mark the weeklong Jewish holiday of Sukkot.

As hate and bias  including against the Jewish community  continue to rise, it is critical that we call out religious discrimination when we see it, and it is especially important that we hold public officials accountable when they treat people differently based on their faith, Sundeep Iyer, director of the Division on Civil Rights in the Attorney Generals Office, said in a statement.

Todays consent order sends a strong message: We will not tolerate religious discrimination here in New Jersey, Iyer said.

Under the settlement, people who believe they were harmed by Jackson Townships actions can contact JacksonRestitutionFund@njcivilrights.gov.

Township officials, including the mayor, will undergo training on discrimination in land use and zoning, the Attorney Generals Office said.
Philadelphia Mayor Jim Kenney announces SEPTA Key Advantage Program for eligible city employees. City of Philadelphia announces the SEPTA Key Advantage program for eligible city employees. Announcement took place at Dilworth Plaza on Monday, August 28, 2023. Read more

Philadelphia city employees and some residents living in poverty can get free SEPTA passes beginning Friday as part of a new program that city officials say could benefit 50,000 people.

The move represents a major expansion of SEPTAs Key Advantage program, which allows employers to buy transit passes at wholesale price and offer them to employees. It comes as SEPTA is working to increase usage and as the city is looking for new ways to recruit and retain workers amid a staff shortage.

City officials and SEPTA authorities cheered the program during a news conference Monday, saying it will bolster SEPTA ridership, attract new employees to the city, drive economic activity, and cut down on pollution.

An accessible, safe, and reliable transit system is essential to growth and equity in any major city, Mayor Jim Kenney said. The SEPTA Key program is a collective effort between SEPTA, corporations, and other major employers, and now the city, to build an even stronger, faster, and safer system for all and reduce emissions in our region.

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 READ MORE: Philly changed the way the world views heat disasters and may have saved thousands of lives

Heres what you need to know about the free passes  and how to get one.

Who qualifies for a free SEPTA pass?

1. Almost all city employees are eligible to get one through SEPTA Key Advantage. That includes firefighters, social workers, sanitation workers, accountants, IT professionals, librarians, and more. Full-time, part-time, and temporary employees who earn paid sick time are eligible. That amounts to about 22,000 employees, and about 10,000 of them have already registered for the benefit.

2. About 25,000 people living in poverty will be eligible for a separate zero-fare pilot program that is also rolling out this fall. The first cohort of program participants will be randomly selected based on income and age, and include residents living at 150% of the federal poverty line.

How do I get a free SEPTA pass?

For city employees: All eligible city employees received an email to enroll, and the city also held in-person registration events through the summer. While enrollment opened in July, the benefit does not begin until Friday.

For low-income residents: Eligible residents will receive a postcard in the mail alerting them that they have been enrolled. Officials said those will be sent this week.

What do the SEPTA passes cover?

The passes are considered all-access and can be used on any SEPTA service. That includes buses, trolleys, the Market-Frankford and Broad Street subway lines, the Regional Rail lines, and the Norristown High Speed Line.

How and why is the city funding this?

The SEPTA Key Advantage program that allows employers to buy passes started in May 2022, when some of the citys largest employers  Penn Medicine, Drexel University, and Wawa  began handing out the all-access passes to employees.

After the initial rollout, SEPTA expanded the institutional pass program and in March it became available to all employers.

Around the same time, Kenney delivered his fiscal year 2024 budget proposal to City Council, which included funding for the city to enroll in Key Advantage and provide zero-fare passes to low-income residents. Council passed the budget in June, allocating $40 million this year to the programs  $31 million for those at or near the poverty level and $9 million for city employees.

 READ MORE: New schedules for most SEPTA Regional Rail lines to take effect Sunday

Kenney administration officials said the benefit for employees is intended to boost city hiring and retention efforts. About 1 in 5 city jobs are vacant amid a short-staffing crisis that has affected departments across the municipal government, and the city has committed to a handful of new perks as a way to attract applicants.

We believe this program to be an investment in our workforce, said Marsha Greene-Jones, the citys deputy human resources director.

Does SEPTA see the expansion as a positive?

Though the transit authority is selling the passes at wholesale price, SEPTA sees it as an opportunity to expand ridership, which declined precipitously during the pandemic and has not rebounded to pre-2020 rates.

SEPTA has relied on federal relief funds to pay for its operations amid the revenue shortage. But officials have warned that those dollars will be exhausted next spring and the transit authority will need to dramatically cut service or increase fares if it doesnt secure new funding.

 READ MORE: SEPTA wants more state sales-tax revenue to avoid draconian service cuts next spring

Leslie S. Richards, SEPTA general manager and CEO, said while the Key Advantage program is revenue-neutral for SEPTA  because the passes are sold at a drastically discounted price  she believes increasing ridership by thousands of people could have a ripple effect that brings more riders back.

Everyone feels safer and more of a community when you see more people [riding], she said.

Who else could become eligible in the future?

Richards said that in addition to encouraging more employers to join the Key Advantage program, the transit authority is focused on partnering with colleges and universities to provide transit passes to students.

She said Swarthmore College is the first to sign on and students will be eligible to receive passes this fall. SEPTA expects other schools to follow suit.
Ahora el premier Alberto Otarola sustenta en la @ComisionConsti2 la solicitud de delegacion de facultades legislativas en:



? Seguridad ciudadana

? Gestion de riesgo de desastres

? Infraestructura social y calidad de proyectos

? Meritocracia pic.twitter.com/qCaMaUECzL
Septa Bus Operator Eric White, steps out of the bus to watch for busses for people as they cool off in the cooling bus along Allegheny Avenue and Germantown Avenue during the heat wave in North Philadelphia, on Wednesday, June 30, 2021. Read more

Start your day with the Philly news you need and the stories you want all in one easy-to-read newsletter

Today should be a mostly cloudy day with a high of 80.

Happy Tuesday. We are one week away from Philly schools reopening. I think its fair to call this time Back to School season. We have compiled what you need to know about the upcoming school year.

Our lead story explains how Philly changed the way the world views heat disasters and how heat mortality is measured.

 Taylor Allen (@TayImanAllen, morningnewsletter@inquirer.com)

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If someone forwarded you this email, sign up for free here.

Philadelphia officially recorded 118 heat-related deaths during the summer of 1993. Most of them were older people who lived alone.

Not everyone believed it. There was a lot of criticism and suspicion that it was an overcount. Nearby cities also experienced a heatwave, but didnt have numbers like Philly. And if it was an accurate number, how could the city be that inept?

Philadelphias medical examiner at the time, the late Haresh Mirchandani, expanded the definition of heat deaths to include those where heat was determined to be a contributing cause. In the past, the strict criterion to qualify as a heat-related death was hyperthermia, a core body temperature of 105 degrees at the time of death.

The result: Both NOAA and the Centers for Disease Control concluded that was Mirchandani was right and that his method should become the standard. The CDCs excess mortality figures  the number of deaths above daily averages  tracked neatly with Mirchandanis running counts.

The city mobilized after the shock of the 1993 death toll and created a heat-response system. Chicago, Cincinnati, Dayton, and to have since adopted similar programs.

Read on for more details of Phillys legacy.

When former Millville Municipal Court Judge Jason Witcher publicly accused the N.J. judiciary of discriminating against defendants needing Spanish-English translation or having Hispanic-sounding names, he knew it couldve ended his career.

In his own words: It was the right thing to do, Witcher, Cumberland Countys first Black municipal judge, said. I have no regrets because I had no choice. As a man and as a judge, my primary responsibility should always be the integrity of the justice system.

Witcher resigned and filed a lawsuit in June against the Administrative Office of the Courts. The N.J. Attorney Generals Office then conducted a monthslong investigation, filing in August a civil-rights complaint corroborating bias claims against the City of Millville in Cumberland County.

Continue reading to understand the extent of the controversy.

What you should know today

A group of Philly 30-somethings raised more than $17,000 to buy more than $1.6 million in local medical debt.

They celebrated with an unofficial debt burning, complete with lighter fluid, shots, Roman candles and sparklers.

Notable quote: Were young, were party people, we want to light s on fire, said Claire Hirschberg, a South Philly union organizer.

More than 1,700 beneficiaries are slated to receive letters informing them that someone took care of part or all of their medical debt starting mid-September.

Read on to learn how the group got the idea to do it.

 Trivia time 

West Philly native Colman Domingo stars in Rustin, playing the title role of Bayard Rustin. The movie about the Black queer civil rights activist will hit select theaters and Netflix in November.

Where was Rustin born and raised?

A) West Chester

B) Coatesville

C) Malvern

D) Phoenixville

Think you know? Check your answer.

What were...

 Watching: Pennsylvania could move its 2024 presidential primary election date as early as March 19.

 Reading: Columnist Will Bunchs latest argues that journalism is failing at explaining whats happening to America.

 Unscramble the anagram 

Hint: The statue outside the Linc

CHILLY APPLIES

Well select a reader at random to shout out here. Cheers to Amy Baxter, who correctly guessed Mondays answer: pumpkin spice latte. Email us if you know the answer.

Photo of the day

Im off to go on my morning walk. Thanks for starting your day with The Inquirer.
Sixty years ago this week, the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his iconic speech in Washington, D.C., in which he dreamed that one day his four children would not be judged by the color of their skin but the content of their character.

While much progress has been made in realizing Kings dream, America still has a ways to go to live up to the self-evident ideals etched in the Declaration of Independence that all men are created equal. This was made painfully clear this weekend when a white man gunned down three Black people at a Dollar General store in Florida.

The Jacksonville sheriff, who reviewed the gunmans racist writings, said the 21-year-old shooter hated Black people.

The killings join a long list of mass murders fueled by racist hate, including a Buffalo, N.Y., grocery store in 2022, a Walmart in El Paso, Texas, in 2019, and a Charleston, S.C., church in 2015, where the white man who slaughtered nine people in a Bible study group said the massacre was worth it.

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 READ MORE: America has gone backward since George Floyd | Will Bunch

The murders are part of a broader rise in hate crimes against people of color, members of the LGBTQ community, and Jews. The surge in hate crimes coincided with the rise of Donald Trump, whose incendiary rhetoric has fueled violence.

But it is not just overt racism that prevents Kings dream of a nation that will rise up and live out the true meaning of its creed. The systemic racism baked into many parts of society keeps many Black and brown people living on a lonely island of poverty in the midst of a vast ocean of material prosperity.

A recent analysis by the Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia found that the Black-white homeownership gap is wider than 30 years ago. In fact, Black people are now nearly three times more likely to be denied a mortgage than white people.

Persistent and illegal redlining that still exists in Philadelphia further destabilizes neighborhoods and prevents African Americans from building long-term generational wealth. Fed researchers suggested policies that increase the supply of affordable homes, access to mortgages, and raise incomes for Black residents.

Health disparities underscored during the pandemic are another legacy of systemic racism, studies found. Babies born in North Philadelphia have a life expectancy that is 20 years less than that of babies born just a few miles away in Society Hill.

Black men have the shortest life expectancy of any population group in Philadelphia because of high rates of homicide, cardiovascular disease, drug overdoses, cancer, and death in infancy, a 2019 report found.

The Affordable Care Act has reduced the rate of uninsured people across all demographic groups and significantly closed the racial and ethnic gap in access to health care, especially in states that expanded Medicaid coverage.

But poverty rates  which are higher for Black and brown residents in Philadelphia  are directly tied to health disparities, studies show. Expansion of the child tax credit slashed child poverty by 30%, but the program only lasted for six months in 2021, largely due to opposition from Republicans and some Democrats.

There is a bipartisan effort in Congress to restore the child tax credit, a proven way to reduce poverty and improve long-term health in both urban and rural parts of the country. Additional steps are needed to close the gap and ensure high-quality care for all through public policies and awareness.

 READ MORE: Congress can help keep kids out of poverty | Editorial

In his speech, King said the quest for freedom left many battered by the storms of persecution and staggered by the winds of police brutality. The unevenness of law enforcement is routinely laid bare by video of police shootings and beatings of Black and brown victims, from Eric Garner to Michael Brown to Freddie Gray to Breonna Taylor to George Floyd and many others  including Eddie Irizarry in Kensington on Aug. 14.

But the systemic racial and ethnic disparities are most starkly seen in state prisons. Black people account for 13% of the U.S. population but are almost half of all inmates. A recent report by District Attorney Larry Krasner that examined nearly 300,000 criminal cases found that Black people in Philadelphia are overrepresented at every stage of the legal system, from car stops to arrests to incarceration. Indeed, the number of wrongful convictions disproportionately affects Black people.

On Aug. 28, 1963, King said, Now is the time to make justice a reality for all of Gods children. Sixty years later, that reality remains elusive.
Republican David Oh and Democrat Cherelle Parker during a mayoral forum in March. Read more

Cherelle Parker, the Democratic nominee for mayor in Philadelphia, cried foul Monday after a flier circulated online that claimed she was participating in a Latino Town Hall Wednesday evening.

Parker, who has not agreed to any debates or joint appearances with Republican nominee David Oh, said in a news release that her campaign received no formal invitation or communication regarding the town hall from the organizers.

Instead, Parker said she first learned about the event when Phillip Fisher Jr., the Republican leader of the 42nd Ward, emailed a copy of the town hall flier to her campaign Saturday. Fisher said he emailed the campaign because he heard Parker hadnt responded.

Parkers campaign branded the event a Republican political dirty trick and said it was meant to deceive and mislead voters for political gain.

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Oh, who has been pressing Parker for debates, got a chuckle out of it all. He posted a version of the flier on social media Saturday, adding that he heard Parker had not responded about the event.

Its kind of funny because nobody can get in touch with the Cherelle Parker campaign, Oh told Clout. They dont respond to anyone. But all of the sudden, because this little podcast-radio program is moving forward, there is this whirlwind of activity.

The flier said the event will be held at a North Philadelphia location and live-streamed.

Fisher told Clout the event developed organically in discussions with several organizations. He could not say who, if anyone, contacted Parkers campaign before he did.

It was a lot of group chats, he said. There was never one sole person who said Im organizing this event.

Oh and Fisher said they dealt with Olga Renteria of Philatinos Media, which has been circulating a flier on social media about sponsoring the event. Renteria said her group was invited to participate but could not recall who issued the invitation.

She referred questions to USALA Media, the location for the event. A spokesperson for USALA Media did notrespond to requests for comment.

Clout provides often irreverent news and analysis about people, power, and politics.
Nicolas O'Rourke, then director of organizing for Pennsylvania Working Families, encourages passersby to vote early by casting a mail-in ballot at Philadelphia's City Hall in October 2020. He is now running for City Council. Read more

The Rev. Nicolas ORourke is a pastor, but he proudly says that Philadelphia needs more than thoughts and prayers to address gun violence, housing, and climate change  all of which he sees as crises.

We need courageous leadership, he said. We need a compassionate vision in our governance.

ORourke thinks he has that vision.

A member of the progressive Working Families Party, ORourke is running for Philadelphia City Council and hoping to win one of seven seats that represent the city at-large. Voters in November can select up to five candidates, meaning the five Democrats on the ballot are expected to win, given the partys strong voter registration advantage in the city.

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That leaves the Working Families Party, which has gained traction in the city in recent years, battling Republicans Drew Murray and Jim Hasher for the final two seats. The GOP held both for 70 years, until Kendra Brooks in 2019 became the first third-party candidate in decades to win a seat on Council, stunning Republicans and the citys political establishment.

 READ MORE: The progressive Working Families Party is gearing up to try to oust the few Republicans left in Philadelphia government

ORourke unsuccessfully ran the same year.

Brooks is up for reelection this year, and ORourke is giving it another go. The citys Republican Party filed legal challenges to try to get both removed from the ballot for paperwork defects. The challenges were tossed out by a city judge, but the GOP appealed to the state Commonwealth Court and the case is pending.

Heres what to know about ORourke and his run for Council:

Why does Nicolas ORourke want to be on Council?

ORourke, 34, said that coming out of the Black church, everything he does is ultimately in service to a higher hope. He believes the country is in need of elected officials who serve with a strong moral compass.

Were talking about a more compassionate voice and mind, he said, in that Council is not looking out for ways to make more money or save more dollars, but to save more lives and improve more livelihoods.

 READ MORE: City Hall is about to see some serious turnover that will determine the direction of Philadelphia government

He said he hopes to build on the legislative achievements of members such as Brooks and progressive district Councilmember Jamie Gauthier. Both have prioritized changes in the Police Department, investments in city services, and affordable housing policy.

ORourke has also railed against the Republican Party, saying frequently that the GOP does not deserve governing power in Philadelphia. To beat a Republican, third-party candidates generally need to convince some voters who usually pick five Democrats to instead select fewer Democrats and vote for them.

There are not many Democratic voters asking for more Republican representation, ORourke said. Im going to show them that I am the better choice.

What are ORourkes top priorities?

ORourke said public safety is the citys most pressing issue, and that hed advocate for intentional community investment in the neighborhoods most affected by gun violence. He said that could include new initiatives, such as putting counselors in recreation centers, or adding programming for children and teenagers.

His other priorities include bolstering mental-health services, creating more opportunities for unionized jobs, and investing in city services, especially in historically neglected neighborhoods.

When you go to 60th Street corridor, you dont see as much greenery as in Rittenhouse Square, he said. These things intersect. Thats not divorced from housing and land use, or safety and crime.

What is he like as a person?

ORourke describes himself as an organizer by vocation and a minister by calling.

In 2014, he joined the staff at Living Water United Church of Christ in Oxford Circle and took over as pastor in 2018.

Over the last decade, he has organized extensively with groups advocating for social and racial justice, including POWER Interfaith and the Pennsylvania Working Families Party. Hes had a visible presence for years, especially in 2020 amid the racial justice movement and the presidential election.

ORourke was raised largely in Trenton, but moved all over while growing up, spending time in Florida, Ohio, and Indiana. He attended college in Ohio, then went to Bible college in Indianapolis before returning to the Philadelphia region.

He lives in West Philadelphia with his wife, Leslie.

Where does ORourke stand on some issues?

Taxes: ORourke would not say how he might vote on changes to the citys tax code without a specific proposal to consider, but said hed favor policy that improves the majority of peoples lives and increases opportunity and access for the least of us.

The mark of a city should be by how well those at the bottom of the social ladder are being cared for, he said.

Brooks has opposed reductions to business taxes and introduced legislation to reinstate a wealth tax, or a levy on directly held stocks and bonds.

Public safety: In addition to investments in neighborhoods most affected by crime, ORourke said hed advocate for continued increases in funding for behavioral health providers to respond to some 911 calls as a means of reducing police interactions with people in crisis.

Proposed Sixers arena: ORourke said he doesnt support the 76ers plan for a new downtown arena as currently proposed.

When I think about the two voices that really matter most in this discussion, its workers who will get contracts and positions, and also the people that live in Chinatown who have gone through a process, he said. Ive been to some of those meetings. They made a clear statement that they dont want an arena in Chinatown.

What else should I know about him?

ORourke is endorsed by the Black Clergy of Philadelphia and Vicinity and a handful of labor unions, including those that represent teachers and service workers.

Were still in the process of interviewing with other groups, he said, but those are very telling about the kind of broad city coalition were building.
The Federal Communications Commission is allowing public comment on a recently filed petition seeking to deny the broadcast license renewal for the Philadelphia-based Fox 29, marking a rare step for the near-century-old agency.

Filed in July, the petition comes from the Media and Democracy Project, a self-described nonpartisan nonprofit that focuses on media issues. In its petition, the group asked the FCC to deny renewal of Fox 29s broadcast license  set to expire this month  because Fox broadcast knowingly false narratives about the 2020 election on Fox News Channel, its cable station. A good deal of that narrative, MAD said, was then rebroadcast on Fox 29, specifically through the rebroadcast of Fox News Sunday on the Philadelphia station.

As a result, MAD contends, Fox Corp. violated the FCCs policy on licensee character qualifications, and that it isnt fit to maintain a broadcast license. Fox Corp. objected to the petition earlier this month, saying in a filing that MAD fails to offer any credible support to its claims that Fox 29s broadcasts were run irresponsibly.

MAD is seeking an evidentiary hearing into Foxs misdeeds, according to the petition. No other Fox stations are set to renew their licenses until 2028. But, while the FCC allows petitions to deny renewals, it is unusual that they are acted upon.

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Now, with the FCCs latest move, the process is set to be more transparent and open to the public.

People who want to comment can do so on the FCCs Electronic Comment Filing System website by clicking the +New Filing or +Express links on the left side of the page for the docket. No deadline is specified.

Fox 29 petition process goes public

MAD filed a request for an open proceeding in mid-July, saying that additional public interest groups hoped to participate. The petition, it added, dealt not only with Foxs operation of Fox 29 locally, but also addressed the broader question of whether Fox retains the basic qualifications of being an FCC license holder.

Ordinarily, FCC license renewal proceedings are restricted and not open to public comment. It can, however, modify those proceedings if the public interest so requires, the FCC said in announcing the change.

Fox objected to MADs request, writing in a filing with the FCC that license renewal proceedings are not vehicles for debating broader policy questions. As a result, the company contended, the request was procedurally improper and contrary to established commission practice.

More than 30 comments on the petition have been submitted through the FCC website, including letters supporting the renewal, provided by Fox Television Stations, from local leaders such as U.S. Reps. Brendan F. Boyle and Brian Fitzpatrick and Camden Mayor Victor G. Carstarphen. In an introduction to those letters, Fox lawyers wrote that the stations service should be encouraged, not threatened by baseless license renewal challenges.

The commission should signal its support for exemplary local news and public service by promptly dismissing the pending Petition to Deny and granting the Stations pending license renewal application, Foxs statement read.

Former FCC chairman joins denial petition

The opening of proceedings comes after MAD received support for its petition to deny renewal of Fox 29s license from several high-profile figures, including former FCC chairman Alfred Sikes. Sikes, a Republican, fronted the agency from 1989 to 1993, when Fox chair Rupert Murdoch was creating the Fox Broadcasting Co. network.

During his tenure in the FCC, Sikes wrote in his filing, he opposed the advocacy of those who, for competitive reasons, tried to block Rupert Murdochs efforts to launch Fox Broadcasting Co.. Sikes added that he was a viewer of Fox News off and on over the years.

But now, Sikes wrote, Fox is in the promotion business and has hired either true believers or good actors to make sure its airways push the desired narrative.

One of those narratives, Sikes wrote, was that Fox chose fiction over nonfiction to make many of its listeners and viewers happy in its coverage of the 2020 presidential election. As a result, Sikes contends, Fox knew the facts and decided to ignore them.

If the public interest means anything, the FCC must designate for a hearing the application of the Murdochs and Fox for renewal of their license to operate Station WTXF, Philadelphia, Sikes wrote.

MAD has also seen official support from former Fox News contributor William Kristol, former FCC commissioner Ervin Duggan, and Fox Broadcasting Co. founding president Jamie Kellner.
Poll workers prepare to open their polling place inside Moore College of Art & Design in Philadelphia on May 16, 2023, for the primary election. Read more

HARRISBURG  Pennsylvania could move its primary election date as early as March 19, a change that would make the state a more decisive player in choosing presidential nominees.

Lawmakers still need to reach a final agreement on how early theyll move the 2024 primary election in the critical battleground state. Officials have discussed moving the election to a date as early as March 19 or as late as April 16.

Gov. Josh Shapiro and legislative leaders have all said they support moving the primary election to earlier in the year because the current date conflicts with Passover. The primary is scheduled for April 23, 2024, the first day of the major Jewish holiday. Traditional Jewish law prohibits many regular activities, such as driving, writing, working, and the use of electricity on the holiday, which is observed for eight days in the United States.

Pennsylvania will be so crucial in the general election that campaigns and political operatives will be closely watching how candidates perform. The state has mattered to a presidential primary outcome only once in recent years; national media flooded the state in the weeks leading up to the April 22, 2008 primary, as Hillary Clinton trailed Barack Obama. But even though Clinton defeated Obama in Pennsylvania, Obama had a fairly firm grasp on the Democratic nomination by that time.

A Pennsylvania Senate committee will consider a bill Wednesday to move the primary election to March 19. Other battleground states, including Arizona and Florida, will choose their presidential nominees that day. The proposed bill would permanently change the date of the states presidential primary, but wouldnt change primary election dates in non-presidential years.

Other dates are also a possibility.

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Rep. Malcolm Kenyatta (D., Philadelphia) introduced a proposal with Rep. Jared Solomon (D., Philadelphia) to move the primary to April 2. This is the earliest that the state could move the election while still allowing candidates to begin collecting petitions to get on the ballot after the Christmas holiday.

Kenyatta and Solomon initially proposed moving the date to March 19, but heard concerns that the petition period would then overlap with Christmas. They landed on April 2, which Kenyatta said puts the state in position to vote in a mini Super Tuesday with Wisconsin, Delaware, New York, and Rhode Island.

Pennsylvania is a critical battleground state, Kenyatta said. We deserve to be heard earlier, and we need to be respectful of the Jewish holiday.

Once an election date is finalized, each county will need to ensure that the states more than 9,000 polling locations can be reserved for the new date. Philadelphia alone has more than 700 polling places.

In a letter to Senate President Pro Tempore Kim Ward last month, Secretary of State Al Schmidt encouraged lawmakers to address the issue quickly.

While I certainly support making this change, as a longtime election administrator, I strongly urge that any legislation moving the date of the primary be passed by the General Assembly as soon as possible, said Schmidt, a former longtime Republican Philadelphia city commissioner.

I am deeply concerned we will not give county election officials the time they need to adjust thousands of polling locations to accommodate a new, earlier primary date, he wrote.

The Senate returns Wednesday to finish work related to the budget, and will be able to take up the issue swiftly once they are back Sept. 18 from summer recess, a spokesperson for Senate Republicans said in a statement.

No matter the final agreement, Pennsylvania voters could have a greater say in deciding who will receive the presidential nomination from each party if lawmakers agree to move the election.

That gives us an opportunity to be more central on where presidential campaigns decide to deploy resources and give Pennsylvanians the chance to decide and engage in the process, Kenyatta said.

If the state fails to move the primary date, Jewish voters would still be able to cast their vote by mail ahead of the holiday.

Staff writer Julia Terruso contributed to this report.
A file photo of the OCF Cafe logo at 2001 Federal Street, across the street from new OCF construction in 2021. Read more

A Philadelphia woman has sued one of the citys most prominent real estate companies, alleging that OCF Realty discriminated against her by not accepting her Housing Choice Voucher to rent a property, violating a long-held ban on the practice in the city.

But, OCF Realty owner Ori Feibush told The Inquirer, the companys landlords were unable to complete trainings allowing them to accept housing vouchers when Jennifer Cooper attempted to rent from OCF, and were therefore not permitted to accept them. Messaging from the Philadelphia Housing Authority, which administers the Housing Choice Voucher program in the city, indicated the programs were indefinitely suspended, Feibush said.

My staff were trained appropriately to say our property owners are not currently approved for [housing vouchers], Feibush said. There was no path to be approved at the time.

Filed with the Philadelphia Commission on Human Relations last week, the lawsuit claims that an OCF employee earlier this year told Cooper that none of the companys properties accepted housing vouchers. The Public Interest Law Center filed the lawsuit on behalf of Cooper and the Housing Equality Center, and is seeking unspecified damages. The complaint also names several property owners who work with the real estate company as additional defendants.

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Formerly known as Section 8, the Housing Choice Voucher program gives federal subsidies to people with low incomes to help them rent homes on the private market. For decades, a city law known as the Fair Practices Ordinance has banned property owners from refusing to rent to potential tenants based on the source of income they use to pay rent. That includes housing vouchers and other forms of public assistance.

Housing Choice Vouchers are meant to provide low-income families with a fair shot at decent and safe housing on the private rental market, said Rachel Wentworth, executive director of the Housing Equality Center. When landlords providing such housing categorically refuse to consider renters who use housing assistance, they push thousands of people closer to housing insecurity and homelessness.

Cooper, 44, lives with disabilities and receives $914 on Supplemental Security income a month, the lawsuit says. She applied for a housing voucher in 2010, and after 13 years on a waitlist, she was awarded one in April through the Philadelphia Housing Authority.

 READ MORE: How to apply for the newly reopened Housing Choice Voucher program in Philly

After receiving the voucher, Cooper found a number of OCF properties within her price range, and toured several apartments. But in July, an OCF employee told her that the company didnt accept housing vouchers for any of its properties, the lawsuit alleges.

In a statement, Cooper said that it was deeply disappointing to be told that I would not be considered as a tenant because of how I pay rent.

While source-of-income discrimination is illegal in Philadelphia, it happens regularly because housing protection is not broadly enforced, The Inquirer previously reported. According to a 2018 study, more than two-thirds of the citys landlords refused to accept vouchers, and property owners often reject voucher holders even when they can afford to pay.

According to the lawsuit, OCF agents told Housing Equality Center testers several times last year that the company did not accept vouchers. Testers contact real estate companies under the guise of being interested renters, and try to get approved.

 READ MORE: To prevent housing-voucher discrimination, renters, housing advocates, and city agencies want more resources

Feibush said that OCF does not accept the vouchers because its landlords were not able to procure the necessary PHA training. According to Feibush, the PHA website and automated messages from the authority indicated that it was not holding the training sessions required to participate in the program. Currently, the PHA website states that the agency holds the trainings on Tuesdays.

A spokesperson for the PHA, which is not named in the lawsuit, did not immediately respond to request for comment. According to WHYY, the PHA previously stopped offering the trainings in 2020 for three months, and that due to an administrative error, the website had said until recently that the trainings were canceled until further notice.

We looked online, we called, and it says were not open for business, Feibush said. And were supposed to know, Hey, just kidding. We didnt mean it?

As a result, Feibush added, the lawsuit is misguided if the goal here is to help provide housing for folks in need.

The program can support property owners that we work with, but it is maddening, and a microcosm of much broader systemic issues over at PHA and [in] the city, Feibush said.

Kelvin Jeremiah, president and CEO of the PHA, said that the agency stopped offering the courses in mid-March of 2020 at the height of the pandemic, and began offering virtual classes in July that year. In-person classes began again in January, he added.

However, the messaging about cancelations remained up on one page of the PHA website in error after a new version of its website launched earlier this year, Jeremiah said. It has since been removed.

Roughly 5,000 people have attended landlord briefings and certification classes since 2020, Jeremiah said.

That doesnt sound like a PHA issue, Jeremiah said. That sounds like a policy decision that they have made.

OCF works with about 1,100 property owners, and none are certified to rent to housing voucher holders, Feibush said. He added that he has now signed up for the voucher training course, and that the company is thrilled to participate in the program and support property owners who want to participate.

Earlier this year, the HEC reached a settlement with a Mount Laurel-based landlord it sued in another similar case. In that settlement, Pro-Managed Inc., which owns or manages at least 77 rental properties in the city, admitted its policies discriminated against tenants, and agreed to advertise its acceptance of housing vouchers.

Staff writer Jake Blumgart contributed to this article.
Reporting to Everest Insurance president and chief executive Mike Karmilowicz, McDermott brings around three decades of experience from the likes of AXA XL and Travelers to Everest Groups insurance division. She most recently held the position of North America general insurance chief actuary at AIG.
I think the thought process behind having civil penalty regimes here is that you need to have these in place so that directors and companies cant just rest behind safe harbour laws, for example, she said. They have to really put some thought behind their disclosures and also substantiate it with the work thats being done at the organisation to back-up the statements that are made and whats being reported.
Given the existing conditions of the insurance industry and the impact they are having on our business, we need to take decisive actions today to better position Farmers for future success, said Raul Vargas, president and CEO of Farmers Group, Inc. Decisions like these are never easy, and we are committed to doing our best to support those impacted by these changes in the days and weeks to come.
A big thing about data from an underwriting perspective is you really only get one chance to make the decision, explained Falvey. Are you going to write the account or are you not? And you can price it, so you need to have all that information at the time youre making that decision.
The advent of the Risk Rating 2.0 system in 2021 aimed to enhance the determination of flood premiums, aligning them with the current and accurate flood risk assessments based on more robust data. This endeavor has concurrently led to enhanced competitiveness in private insurance coverage, as the number of insurers offering such coverage has multiplied over fourfold, growing from 47 in 2016 to 198 in 2022, according to the report.
We take a thoughtful and deliberate approach to our geographic presence to ensure our plans meet high standards for affordability, network quality and comprehensive coverage, Chris DeRosa, president of US government business at Cigna Healthcare, told Forbes. Cigna has continuously maintained our presence in the ACA Marketplace over the past 10 years, and we are proud to continue using our expertise to help customers have a healthier future.
The ruling is one of the first D&O decisions covering defense costs in opioid lawsuits, Bloomberg reported. The court rejected two common policy exclusions and read D&O insurance coverage broadly in its decision, which will open the door for other drug companies facing opioid litigation, Bloomberg reported.
Toyota Motor Corp. on Tuesday said it has suspended operations at all 14 of its assembly plants in Japan due to a production system malfunction, bringing domestic output to a standstill at the worlds biggest-selling automaker.

The glitch is preventing Toyota from ordering components and its cause is under investigation, though it is likely not due to a cyberattack, a spokesperson said.

Toyota suspended 12 plants in its home market from Tuesday morning and added the final two from the afternoon, the spokesperson said. It was unclear how much output would be lost.

The plants together account for about a third of the automakers global production, Reuters calculations showed.

Toyotas domestic production had been on the rebound after a series of output cuts it blamed on semiconductor shortage. Output was up 29% in January-June, the first such increase in two years.

Its Japan output averaged about 13,500 vehicles daily in the first half of the year, Reuters calculations showed. That excludes vehicles from group automakers Daihatsu and Hino.

Operations were halted for a day last year when a supplier suffered a cyberattack, hampering Toyotas ability to order parts. Toyota resumed operations using a back-up network.

Tuesdays incident is having a knock-on effect. Group firm Toyota Industries said it has partially suspended operations at two engine plants due to the automakers glitch.

Toyota is a pioneer of just-in-time inventory management, which keeps down costs but means supply chain snarls put production at risk.

While the cause of the latest malfunction was unclear, corporate Japan has been on alert in recent days as businesses and government offices reported harassing phone calls.

The government said the calls were likely from China and related to Japans release of treated radioactive water from the wrecked Fukushima nuclear power plant into the Pacific Ocean.

Toyotas share price was up 0.12% at 2,439 yen in afternoon trade after spending much of the morning in negative territory.

(Reporting by Satoshi Sugiyama; additional reporting by Miyoung Kim and Kevin Krolicki; editing by David Dolan and Christopher Cushing)

Photograph: A logo of Toyota Motor Corp. is seen at a dealer on May 11, 2022, in Tokyo. (AP Photo/Eugene Hoshiko, File)

Topics Japan
Hundreds of passengers on a P&O cruise ship that crashed into an oil tanker during a storm in Spain have been flown home.

The flagship Britannia departed the Mediterranean island of Palma de Mallorca on Monday and will return to Southampton, the cruise line said in a statement. The 330-meter (1,083 feet) ship snapped its moorings in strong winds and collided with the tanker on Sunday.

Surveyors found one of the ships lifeboats sustained damage that cant be repaired on board and the vessel is required by maritime regulation to return to Southampton, according to the statement. A small number of guests and crew have left the ship and will be flown to Southampton or their starting point, the cruise line said. About 320 guests will be flying home early.

The ship is expected to reach Southampton on Sept. 1, the company said.

Removing the damaged lifeboats.. cant see us sailing today, Gibraltar has been cancelled, and theyre trying to arrange flights for some passengers. pic.twitter.com/LgctLhlGRb

 Emma Peel MBE  (@madelynrogers) Aug. 28, 2023

A user on X, the social media platform formerly known as Twitter, who appears to be aboard the Britannia, posted to say that damaged lifeboats were being removed and that flights were being arranged for some passengers.

The ship was carrying thousands of passengers, a small number of whom were injured by falls and flying debris during the storm, according to media reports.

The Britannia cost 473 million ($597 million) and can carry up to 3,647 passengers.

Copyright 2023 Bloomberg.
Aston Lark, a Howden company, announced it has acquired Plymouth, UK-based marine insurance broker, Curtis Marine.

Financial details of the deal were not disclosed.

Curtis Marine will become part of Howdens marine practice, trading under the Haven Knox-Johnston name. The business will join Euromarine, A-Plan Marine and Howden Fastnet to collectively form part of Haven Knox-Johnston, the UKs leading marine insurance provider.

As a family-run business, Curtis Marine has been providing marine insurance solutions to the South West region for the last 40 years. Organizing cover for a wide variety of vessel types, from dinghies to luxury motorboats, and for marine businesses from sole traders to marinas, the Curtis team prides itself on exceptional customer service, with advice and guidance for clients throughout their insurance journey.

The acquisition develops Haven Knox-Johnstons national presence, with an established local team based in Plymouth able to provide excellent customer service, alongside an increased product portfolio, Aston Lark said in a statement.

Were delighted to welcome Sally, Aidan and the entire Curtis Marine team to the Howden Marine Practice and look forward to working closely together to provide the best marine insurance solutions to the marine industry and boatowners in Plymouth and the local area, commented Steve Hook, head of Marine Practice, Haven Knox-Johnston, which was acquired by Aston Lark in 2021.

Our aim is to create the UKs most client-focused marine insurance proposition and deliver a wide choice of products combined with expert advice and excellent value for money to our clients. Acquisitions like Curtis Marine are key to helping us achieve this objective, Hook added.

This is a new and exciting chapter and a great fit for Curtis Marine. Our business success has been made possible due to the hard work of our excellent staff, and support from our loyal customers and insurance partners, according to Aidan Mepsted, director at Curtis Marine. We look forward to joining the Howden Marine Practice and developing the business as it continues to expand in the marine insurance sector.

With 2,300 employees across more than 75 offices in the UK and Ireland, Aston Lark has 220,000 customers and more than 1.3 biillion of GWP. The company said Aston Lark has expertise in all commercial sectors, industry-specific schemes, employee benefits consultancy, and a wide range of private client solutions.

Part of the Aston Lark group, Haven Knox-Johnston specializes in the leisure marine segment and has been a recognized brand since the 1980s.

Source: Aston Lark

Topics Mergers & Acquisitions Agencies
An Ohio-based vinyl tile manufacturer with a history of failing to protect workers from hazards at its Fostoria plant dating back to 2017, now faces an additional $545,853 in federal penalties after investigations by the U.S. Department of Labor.

The departments Occupational Safety and Health Administration opened an inspection at NOX US LLC, following a report of a finger amputation in February 2023. Investigators learned a 56-year-old machine operator suffered the injury when their gloved finger became caught in a chain and sprocket system that didnt have required safety guards in place.

After the March inspection and a required follow-up in May 2023 stemming from a prior inspection, OSHA cited the company for three willful violations, two repeat violation, three serious and two other-than-serious violations for exposing workers to machine hazards by failing to employ adequate lockout and tagout procedures, train workers properly and guard machinery as required by law.

OSHA cited the company for similar violations in October 2022 and proposed $1.2 million in penalties, a finding currently being contested by NOX US. Fourteen workers at the plant have suffered injuries, including numerous cases of severe amputations since 2017, the same year OSHA added the Fostoria plant to its Severe Violator Enforcement Program.

With the March and May inspections still in process, OSHA opened another inspection at the facility on July 20, 2023, after receiving a report that a worker had suffered chemical burns.

Despite repeated citations and penalties, the company continues to expose employees to dangerous hazards and allows them to operate unguarded machines, said OSHA Regional Administrator Bill Donovan in Chicago. NOX US is failing to meet their legal responsibility to provide employees with a safe and healthy work environment, and they must change the way it operates before another employee is needlessly injured.

Based in Seoul, South Korea, NOX Corp. opened the Fostoria plant in November 2015. The company manufactures vinyl flooring for customers in more than 50 countries. The plant has about 200 employees.

Topics Ohio Manufacturing
FARGO, N.D. (AP)  Former North Dakota Gov. Ed Schafer learned a lesson about his car keys after his vehicle was stolen as he hosted a Fargo radio show.

Schafer was guest hosting KFGO`s News and Views program Friday morning when police called the station to ask if he owned a 2020 GMC Yukon, the station reported.

It turns out that the SUV had been stolen out of the stations parking lot. The thief apparently drove it to a probation office and surrendered to authorities, Schafer said.

The vehicle has a push-button start feature and requires a key fob to be in the vehicle before it can be operated. But Schafer had left a spare fob inside, enabling the thief to start it up and drive off.

The former governor and U.S. agriculture secretary says he`s been warned about being more careful.

My wife for 31 years has said, Why dont you lock your car?' Schafer said.

Copyright 2023 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Topics Auto Fraud
A U.S. judge has rejected Burger Kings bid to dismiss a lawsuit claiming that it cheated hungry customers by making its Whopper sandwich appear larger than it actually is.

U.S. District Judge Roy Altman in Miami said Burger King must defend against a claim that its depiction of Whoppers on in-store menu boards mislead reasonable customers, amounting to a breach of contract.

Customers in the proposed class action accused Burger King of portraying burgers with ingredients that overflow over the bun, making it appear that the burgers are 35% larger and contain more than double the meat as the chain serves.

Burger King, a unit of Restaurant Brands International, countered that it wasnt required to deliver burgers that look exactly like the picture, but the judge said it was up to jurors to tell us what reasonable people think.

In his decision made public on Friday, Altman also let the customers pursue negligence-based and unjust enrichment claims.

He dismissed claims based on TV and online ads, finding none in which Burger King promised a burger size, or patty weight, and failed to deliver it.

Burger King and its lawyers did not immediately respond to requests for comment on Tuesday. The plaintiffs lawyer was not immediately available for comment. Earlier efforts to mediate a settlement proved unsuccessful.

McDonalds and Wendys are defending against a similar lawsuit in the Brooklyn, New York federal court. The plaintiffs lawyer there on Monday cited Altmans opinion to justify letting that case continue.

Taco Bell, a unit of Yum Brands, was sued last month in the Brooklyn court for selling Crunchwraps and Mexican pizzas that allegedly contain only half as much filling as advertised.

Each lawsuit seeks at least $5 million in damages.

The case is Coleman et al v Burger King Corp, U.S. District Court, Southern District of Florida, No. 22-20925.

Topics Lawsuits
3M Co. has agreed to pay $6 billion to resolve hundreds of thousands of lawsuits alleging it sold defective earplugs to the US military that led to hearing damage for combat troops.

The company will pay $5 billion in cash and $1 billion in 3M common stock under the terms of the agreement, it said in a statement on Tuesday. It said it would record a third-quarter pretax charge of about $4.2 billion, on top of the $1.1 billion it has already allocated for the claims. 3M isnt admitting any fault or liability as part of the settlement, according to court filings.

The settlement, in one of the largest multi-district litigation cases in US history, resolves a major source of uncertainty for 3M investors. They have watched the companys market value decline by more than half since 2019 amid legal liability from the earplug claims and 3Ms legacy of producing forever chemicals. In June 3M agreed to pay as much as $12.5 billion to settle claims by drinking-water utilities over the substances.

Shares of 3M were up 1.9% at 10:39 a.m. in New York on Tuesday following Mondays gain of 1.5% after Bloomberg reported the settlement. They have fallen 13% so far this year, while the S&P 500 Index has gained 15%.

This historic agreement represents a tremendous victory for the thousands of men and women who bravely served our country and returned home with life-altering hearing injuries, Bryan Aylstock, a Florida-based lawyer for plaintiffs in the earplug cases, said in an emailed statement.

Multi-District Litigation

More than 320,000 former US service members and others have filed suits that were consolidated into a multi-district litigation case in federal court in Florida. Attorneys for the plaintiffs said that not all cases will qualify for compensation under the deal. Roughly 250,000 active plaintiffs have claims before the court, 3M Chief Legal Affairs Officer Kevin Rhodes said on a call with analysts.

This agreement, reached through the mediation process that 3M has previously disclosed, is structured to promote participation by claimants and is intended to resolve all claims associated with the Combat Arms Earplug products, 3M said in a statement on Tuesday.

Former military personnel will have about six months to decide whether to accept a payout or take their case to trial, according to court filings. If they opt out of the settlement to join the ranks of litigating plaintiffs, they face accelerated deadlines for expert-witness reports and other documents, the filings show.

Lawyers said plaintiffs who won early trials against 3M over the earplugs agreed to accept a cut in their awards to be paid under the settlement. Some are accepting as much as 60% less than awarded to resolve their cases without appeals.

Analysts at Barclays had pegged the companys potential liability at about $8 billion. Bloomberg Intelligence said it could range from $4.5 billion to as much as $9.5 billion. While the settlement was at the low end of estimates, it may accelerate negative rating activity as S&P and Moodys have not fully accounted for the legal overhangs, BI analysts Joel Levington and Michael Doto wrote Monday.

Payment Schedule

3M would make an initial payment of as much as $660 million this year to cover damages awarded by juries to service members in trials so far and other costs related to the litigation, according to a company presentation released Tuesday.

Another $3.5 billion would be paid between 2024 and 2027 once a 98% threshold of participating claimants is met, plus as much as $1.2 billion if the participation rate exceeds 98% payable from 2026 through 2029. Those payments would be made with a mix of cash and 3M stock, Rhodes said on the call.

The deal still must be approved by US District Judge Casey Rodgers in Pensacola, who has noted that it is one of the biggest MDLs ever.

Rodgers appointed John Perry Jr. as a special master to oversee disputes about the accords terms, according to court filings. He will decide disagreements over calculations of participation levels, the filings show.

The case is In Re 3M Products Liability Litigation, 19-md-2885, US District Court, Northern District of Florida (Pensacola).

Copyright 2023 Bloomberg.

Topics Lawsuits Florida
Medical providers who treat injured workers in Kentucky must bill the employer/insurer within 45 days, even before a workers compensation claim has been filed and before an employers liability has been established, the Kentucky Supreme Court decided this week.

The opinion in Farley vs. P&P Construction overturns nearly 30 years of precedent and could make it more difficult for doctors to get reimbursed and for workers to be treated, one attorney in the case said.

This is unfair to doctors and its unfair to workers, said Eric Lamb, counsel for the Kentucky Workers Association, who filed a friend-of-the-court brief in the case.

He said that courts through the years have taken a lenient approach on the 45-day billing rule, recognizing that some medical providers may not be aware that an injury is work-related and may not bill correctly. Insurance carriers, by contrast, can wait until after a claim has been adjudicated to pay medical bills.

The insurer in the case, Kentucky Employers Mutual Insurance (known as KEMI), the largest comp carrier in the state, said the Aug. 24 ruling simply interprets state comp law as it is written.

Its pretty straightforward. The court said the law is clear and unambiguous, said Robert Swisher, an attorney and former commissioner of the Kentucky Department of Workers Claims, now director of claims-legal for KEMI.

The statute requiring invoices to be submitted within 45 days allows insurers to know the costs incurred after a work accident and encourages timely administration of claims, Swisher said.

The case began in 2017, when Daniel Farley was working as a foreman for P&P Construction. An air hose for a mine pump exploded and broke his leg. He needed three surgeries to repair the fractures, the court explained.

KEMI accepted one of his claims and began paying temporary total disability benefits and some of Farleys medical expenses. In all, the medical bills would top $107,000.

Several months later, Farley was treated for post-traumatic stress disorder. The clinic did not submit bills for the treatment sessions until seven months later and KEMI declined to pay, citing the 45-day rule. The carrier did the same for invoices from an imaging services firm, after bills came in three months late.

KEMI ultimately settled and paid a lump sum of $125,000 to Farley, but several medical bills remained outstanding. The worker also signed an agreement noting that medical providers must submit statements within 45 days of treatment and the insurer would not be responsible for paying late bills.

In 2020, an administrative law judge found that the 45-day rule did not apply until after an award is made in the claim, noting that the states Workers Compensation Board had consistently established that interpretation, as did a 1993 state Supreme Court decision. The administrative law judge in the Farley case was Peter Naake, of Louisville, a well-known claimants attorney who was appointed to the judge position in 2020.

KEMIs appeal to the comp board was held in abeyance while the 2021 case known as Wonderfoil v. Russell was pending before the high court. After that opinion came down, the comp board upheld the ALJ, citing the Wonderfoil decision. That Wonderfoil case, however, addressed only unpaid medical bills submitted by claimants, not medical providers. And KEMI and P&P Construction argued that the ALJ and the compensation board had misunderstood the law on when the 45-day rule applies.

The Court of Appeals agreed with the employer/carrier.

We hold that the Board misconstrued the controlling statute and precedent and therefore erred as a matter of law in holding that the 45-day requirement for providers to submit billing statements applied only post-award, the appellate judges wrote.

The plain and mandatory language of the statute does not contain anything that limits the application of the 45-day rule to post-award situations, the Court of Appeals concluded. Therefore, we hold that this requirement applies both pre- and post-award.

The Supreme Court upheld the appeals court and made it clear why.

In holding that a provider has 45 days from the date of an award to deliver its billings to an employer, the (Workers Compensation) Board has impermissibly rewritten an unambiguous statutory provision, reads the Farley opinion, written by Justice Kelly Thompson. The mandate to providers is unmistakable in its clarity. The plain and forthright language of the statute affords no other construction but that the provider shall submit the statement for services within forty-five days of the day treatment.

Lamb, of the Kentucky Workers Association, said that courts have historically refrained from drawing a bright line under the word shall as written in some statutes, thus allowing for practical applications of the law. He offered this scenario: Say an injured worker is unconscious and no one informs the emergency room that the injury is from a work accident. In other cases, a pre-existing condition may complicate things.

It has been held that medical causation is a matter for the medical experts and, therefore, the claimant cannot be expected to have self-diagnosed the cause of the harmful change as being a gradual injury versus a specific traumatic event, Lamb wrote in his brief, adding that the doctors or clinics may not know whom to bill until later. They will now be penalized and may avoid treating some injured workers, he said.

Swisher, of KEMI, countered that Kentucky comp regulations allow ALJs to make exceptions on the time limit, including when its shown that medical providers were not fully informed of the employer/carriers role in payment. That provides an element of reasonableness, Swisher said.

The high court remanded the Farley case to the Workers Compensation Board with instructions to reverse the ALJs decision. No justice dissented in the opinion.

Topics Workers' Compensation Kentucky
The National Council on Compensation Insurance has proposed an average 15.1% decrease in rates for Florida, starting Jan. 1, the latest and one of the largest reduction recommendations in more than a decade of rate filings.

The filing, which will be reviewed by the Florida Office of Insurance Regulation, follows an 8.4% decrease recommended last year, a 4.9% decrease in 2021 and a 5.7% cut in 2020. The filing for 2024 was based on experience data from policy years 2020 and 2021 and comes despite an uptick in medical costs, NCCI said in a summary.

Floridas medical costs are expected to rise due to recent medical fee schedule updates, finally allowed after years of debate. The state Department of Administrative Hearings in May dismissed a challenge from Zenith Insurance Co. and others that argued that parts of the reimbursement plan approved by the Division of Workers Compensation was out of line with other states and fees are based on inflated hospital charges, not actual payments accepted by the providers.

Floridas experience, in other ways, reflects trends seen across the country.

On a countrywide basis, there was a notable rise in claim costs for 2022, with medical claim costs increasing about 5% and indemnity claim costs rising about 6% year over year, the NCCI summary reads. The workers compensation system continues to be healthy. Countrywide, lost-time claims, relative to premium, declined 4% in the past year. Private carrier plus state fund net written premium increased about 10% to $47.5 billion in 2022, just above the 2019 level.

Private carriers posted a calendar year combined ratio of 84%, the sixth straight year with a combined ratio below 90%.

The NCCI analysis did not include COVID-19 claims and the organization is treating those as part of a catastrophic event. The actual filing was not available online, since it includes trade secrets and copyrighted information, OIR and NCCI said.

Topics Florida Trends Workers' Compensation Talent Pricing Trends
Florida property insurers were keeping their fingers crossed Tuesday as the latest projections indicated that the worst of Hurricane Idalia may miss some of the most heavily populated parts of the states west coast.

The National Hurricane Center predicted the eyewall of the Category 3 storm would push into the lightly populated Big Bend area, perhaps between Cedar Key and Crawfordville. But storm surge was expected in a wider area, bringing flooding to coastal areas as far south as Tampa Bay, according to weather service and news reports.

Citizens Property Insurance Corp. is likely to be the insurer most impacted. Data from the Florida Office of Insurance Regulation show that Citizens writes some 3,400 policies in the three coastal counties that appear likely to take the brunt of the wind and waves: Taylor, Dixie and Levy. Thats more than 30% of the total coverage in that area, but a small number compared to the thousands of policies affected by Hurricane Ian in southwest Florida a year ago. The percentage is estimated: some insurers do not report their policy totals by county, calling it a trade secret.

Citizens suspended new policy binding, statewide, as of late Sunday.

Agents may not bind applications for new coverage or policy changes for increased coverage, regardless of effective date, when a tropical storm or hurricane watch or warning has been issued by the National Weather Service for any part of the State of Florida, reads the agent bulletin posted Sunday.

The OIR also issued a bulletin, urging insurance companies to be ready for claims and to follow their claims manuals and industry best practices.

Insurers are encouraged to use all available resources to effectively facilitate the claims process for consumers, reads the memo. Those methods may include photographs of damage, videos, video conferencing between adjusters and policyholders, the use of drones and remotely operated vehicles.

Policyholders may also use video and photos to assist in claims. Floridas chief financial officer on Monday urged insureds in the path of the storm to photograph and video their homes before and after damage occurs. Insurers should respond to policyholder needs and maintain complete records, OIR said. The office may issue fines of up to $25,000 per each violation of the Florida Insurance Code.

Were prepared, said Melissa Burt DeVriese, president of Security First Insurance, which had about 144,000 policies in force across Florida.

She noted that the carrier has shed more than 200,000 policies in recent years in Florida but has added employees and has 38 adjusters ready to inspect properties in affected areas. It also has contracts with independent adjuster firms.

Related: Unusually Warm Waters Fueling the Storm

Meanwhile, the number of private flood insurance companies has been growing in recent years and could feel some impact from storm surge and inland flooding.

Flood insurance is a very concentrated market, with a limited number of insurers covering most of the insureds, reads a report released this week from the AM Best financial rating firm said. However, the number of private companies writing coverage has increased substantially, from 47 in 2016 to 198 in 2022.

Recent rate increases for many properties, the result of FEMAs new Risk Rating 2.0, should push more residents into the private flood coverage, AM Best said.

A look at Idalias path so far gives an idea of its potential destruction. Heavy rainfall in western Cuba could produce flooding and landslides, forecasters said, and hurricane-force winds were expected late Monday.

Idalia was expected to move northward Monday, then turn north-northeast on Tuesday and Wednesday and move at a faster pace. The center was forecast to pass over the extreme southeastern Gulf of Mexico by early Tuesday, and reach Floridas western coast on Wednesday.

Along a vast stretch of Florida`s west coast, up to 11 feet (3.4 meters) of ocean water could surge on shore, raising fears of destructive flooding.

Large parts of the western coast of Florida are at risk of seawater surging onto land and flooding communities when a tropical storm or hurricane approaches. That part of Florida is very vulnerable to storm surges, Jamie Rhome, deputy director of the National Hurricane Center, said Sunday.

So it will not take a strong system or a direct hit to produce significant storm surge, he said.

In Cedar Key, a fishing village that juts out into the Gulf of Mexico, a storm surge is among the greatest concerns, said Capt. A.J. Brown, a fishing guide who operates A.J. Brown Charters. The concern is that if the storm strikes Florida just to the north, Cedar Key would get the powerful surge that comes from being on the southeastern side of the storm.

There are worries in Cedar Key about a storm surge, Brown said. If it reaches five feet (1.5 meters) it would cover most everything downtown.

Mexicos National Meteorological Service on Sunday warned of intense to torrential rains showering the Yucatan Peninsula, with winds as fast as 55 mph (89 kph).

Florida has mobilized 1,100 National Guard members, and they have at their disposal 2,400 high-water vehicles, as well as 12 aircraft that can be used for rescue and recovery efforts, said Gov. Ron DeSantis, the Republican governor who is a candidate for the GOP presidential nomination.

If you are in the path of this storm, you should expect power outages, he added.

Update: This story has been corrected to show the correct number of in-house field adjusters at Security First Insurance.

Map at top: Idalias projected path, as of Tuesday morning. (NOAA)

Copyright 2023 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Topics Florida Catastrophe Natural Disasters Hurricane
In an apparent effort to whitewash its lengthy record of human rights violations and disregard for international law, the Azerbaijani authorities, who have caused a humanitarian disaster in Artsakh, have now unilaterally decided to send humanitarian aid to the victims of their own actions.

August 29, 2023, 11:08 In an effort to whitewash its criminal record, Azerbaijan unilaterally decides to send 'aid to victims of its blockade

STEPANAKERT, AUGUST 29, ARTSAKHPRESS-ARMENPRESS: Nagorno-Karabakh has been blockaded by Azerbaijan since December 2022. The blockade has led to a humanitarian crisis, with shortages of all essential products.

Azerbaijan had previously claimed to be willing to send supplies through the Aghdam road. This was viewed in Nagorno-Karabakh as an attempt by Baku to subjugate them. Nagorno-Karabakh rejected the offers on receiving any Azeri aid through the Aghdam-Stepanakert road despite the crisis.

On August 29, Azerbaijani news media reported that the Azerbaijan Red Crescent Society will send 40 tons of flour to the Aghdam-Stepanakert road in what Azerbaijan hypocritically described as a humanitarian gesture.
A jury awarded $3.75 million in damages this week to a protester shot twice with hard-foam projectiles fired by Los Angeles police during demonstrations in 2020.

Jurors ruled that the LA Police Department was negligent when one or more of its officers fired the so-called less-lethal devices at Asim Jamal Shakir Jr., the Los Angeles Times reported.

Shakir had been filming a police skirmish line when he recognized his LAPD officer uncle among the formation and confronted him, shouting, Our ancestors are turning over in their grave right now! Shakir alleges that his uncle, Eric Anderson, then directed other officers to fire a hard-foam projectile at him.

Civil rights attorney Carl Douglas, who filed the suit on Shakir`s behalf, said he hopes the sizable damages awarded will signal that similar acts of police violence cannot be tolerated. The award must still be approved by the City Council.

Karen Richardson, a spokesperson for the city attorneys office, told the Times her office had no comment on the jurys decision. The police department did not respond to an email seeking comment Friday.

At trial, the defense team sought to reconstruct the events of that day with video from a body camera and an Instagram livestream.

Shakir was struck once, then a second time while he was bending down to pick up a phone that had been knocked out of his hand by the first projectile, according to the lawsuit.

Shakir had to go to physical therapy for a year because of the injury to his hand, and he still suffers pain, his attorney said.

An internal department investigation revealed that the less-lethal force that injured Shakir was never reported, Douglas said.

The incident occurred during mass protests that rocked the nation in the wake of George Floyds killing at the hands of police in Minneapolis.

The city is still facing a large class-action lawsuit by Black Lives Matter-Los Angeles and other groups over its handling of the 2020 protests, according to the Times. Several other suits have already been settled.

Copyright 2023 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Topics California
One of Cork's largest hospitality groups has introduced a new earn as you learn apprenticeship programme to address the continuing shortage of qualified staff.

The Market Lane Restaurant Group, which employs up to 175 staff across its Market Lane, ORSO, Goldie, Elbow Lane and The Castle Cafe restaurants had traditionally relied on a combination of recruitment methods from university open days to exchange programmes with overseas students.

Recruitment in the hospitality industry has long been a significant challenge, made greater by the covid pandemic restrictions. Many bars and restaurants continue to operate restricted opening hours due to a shortage of staff.

The new programme aims to address this with the particular aim of attracting new recruits into the restaurant industry for the long-term.

Existing staff and new recruits will be given time off to attend culinary training at Munster Technical University (MTU) and then put their learning into practice on the job in one of the groups restaurants under the supervision of qualified staff.

The restaurant pays salaries, above the minimum wage, and the Government subsidises college fees. The availability of college education is ongoing and the resulting qualifications are highly transferable.

One of the triggers for Market Lane to adopt this approach was the response to its "no experience required" advert for new commis chefs.

One of the successful applicants, Avril OSullivan, 22, a school-leaver and home cook, will start her restaurant Springboard Certificate in Culinary Skills programme in September at MTU. This is a training and education route that she had not previously thought was open to her.

The Market Lane has appointed former head chef Lee Scahill, who has been with the group for 13 years, as the kitchen training co-ordinator. He will oversee the programme and guide staff onto the most appropriate courses.

Offering this opportunity to new staff members at the time of recruitment involves a leap of faith on our part and a big up-front investment in terms of resources, said Conrad Howard, head of the Market Lane Group.

But we believe that this is a great way forward to attract new blood into the industry and we are absolutely delighted that Avril will be starting out on a new career path in September.

Mr Scahill said there was a huge fallout rate amongst culinary arts students all over the country, so they make sure the work they undertake reflects and reinforces what students are taught at college.

These young students feel that they are an integral part of a professional workforce  its not just a summer job  and they feel really good about that."

"So, it also helps engender pride amongst students in their pursuit of a career in the restaurant industry, something we feel has been lacking in recent years, he added.
New media entrepreneur, Richard Fitzgerald from Waterford has been announced for the upcoming Arab Irish Business Forum where he will address delegates on his experience of doing business in the Arab world.

The conference, which will feature speakers from both Ireland and the Arab states will provide analysis, insight and advice on looking beyond the UK and the EU for extensive business opportunities.

Taking place on the 13th of September at the Mansion House in Dublin, the Arab Irish Business Forum is set to be one of the largest gatherings of Arab Irish business interests in recent years.

In 2012, Richard Fitzgerald left his job as a senior advertising executive to head to the Middle East. Three years later he founded Augustus Media, which publishes Lovin Dubai, Lovin Saudi and Smashi digital and online media brands.

Richard Fitzgerald

I received a very warm welcome on arrival to the UAE, said Richard. When doing business there, its important to understand the differences [between the UAE and Ireland], particularly in how business is conducted. You have to be patient as a deal can take time to get over the line but when it does, you have to be able to respond fast."

The Irish do very well in the Arab world and the opportunities are vast. I think weve only just scratched the surface and theres never been a better time to explore what the region has to offer."

According to most recent figures from the CSO, Irish exports to the Middle East and Gulf hit 1.46bn for the first half of 2023 with notable increases in exports to Saudi Arabia, Algeria, Morocco and Tunisia.

In addition to merchandise, the Arab Irish Chamber of Commerce in Dublin estimates that trade in services, worth an estimated 4bn in 2022, will meet the overall value of goods exported to the Arab states this year.

Speakers at the Arab Irish Business Forum include former Tourism chief, Niall Gibbons; country manager for Emirates, Anita Thomas, COO of the Bahrain Stock Exchange, Abdulla Adbin, Expo2020 technology head, Mohammed Al Hashmi, economist, Jim Power, Ian Cahill of Flahavans and Ahmad Younis, CEO of the Arab Irish Chamber of Commerce.
Red Bull has launched a new gaming hub at Waterford's South East Technological University (SETU) to support third-level gamers across Ireland.

The hub is the first of its kind at an Irish third-level institute and will support the university which recently became the first to launch a student esports scholarship.

The initiative represents Red Bull's most significant esports venture in Ireland as the brand expands its footprint across the country's growing gaming scene.

In addition to helping students, the hub will also host national tournaments, interactive workshops, and live-stream events with gamers also having the opportunity to qualify for global esports tournaments hosted by Red Bull.

While just launched this week, Red Bull has already announced that in November, it will host the Irish National Final of the global Valorant tournament, a first-person hero shooter video game that attracts around 14 million players per month.

The Red Bull Gaming Hub will help SETU students of all abilities to develop their skill sets while also connecting them with leading partners in the global gaming industry.

Open only to those in third-level education, Red Bull Campus Clutch sees over 200 national and regional tournaments take place across the globe this autumn. The best of the best advance to the World Finals, this year hosted in Istanbul, with a cash prize of 20,000 on offer.

"We are delighted to further set the standard in the Irish third-level sector by opening our new Esports Gaming Hub," said SETU Waterford Campus Sports Manager, Katie Redmond.

"Our goal with this is to create a sports community where all students, current and future, who participate in Esports can receive the same support and facilities as all our sports teams."

The hub is kitted out with a casual gaming area equipped with Xbox consoles, an immersive sound system and gaming bean bags. The facility also includes a chill-out area where students can connect to the high-speed network and work on their own projects.
Red meat has been targeted by a $70 trillion investor network, which wants developed countries to phase out or repurpose by 2030 agricultural subsidies which it says incentivise over-production and over-consumption of greenhouse gas-intensive foods.

The FAIRR network works with institutional investors on environmental, social, and corporate governance aspects linked to intensive livestock and fish farming.

FAIRR, which claims to be the world's fastest growing investor network in assets under management, says subsidy reform is essential for its members with a long-term investment horizon, because climate change and biodiversity loss represent systemic risks to their portfolios.

Supported by 32 of their investors representing $7.3 trillion in combined assets, including Legal & General Investment Management and BNP Paribas, FAIRR calls for agricultural subsidies to be aligned with government, multilateral, and private sector commitments to transition to net zero, and protect and restore nature, by 2050.

They have signed a statement calling on G20 finance ministers to align agricultural support with climate and nature goals by 2030.

The Group of Twenty (G20) is the premier forum for international economic co-operation, and includes China, France, Germany, Russia, the UK, the USA and the EU.

FAIRR says subsidies and other incentives make up around 15% of total agricultural production value globally with, for example, livestock receiving nearly 20% of EU agricultural subsidies, despite accounting for 50% of EU agricultural emissions.

FAIRR says the United Nations identified almost $470 billion of annual subsidies that are price distorting and environmentally and socially harmful, representing 87% of all agricultural subsidies worldwide. Subsidy regimes are estimated to drive $4-6tn of economic costs per year, through damage to nature, according to FAIRR.

It says the EUs Common Agricultural Policy, for example, receives a third of the entire EU budget. "Yet the European Court of Auditors has found little progress on reducing emissions, which havent changed significantly since 2010, despite 100 billion being attributed specifically to climate mitigation and adaptation".

The statement calls for G20 finance ministers to link financial support with environmental obligations; shift incentives from climate and nature damaging agricultural products to those that put a value on sustainable agriculture; shift away from production of high-emission products like dairy or red meat; and increase just transition funding for workers who lose out if high-emissions sectors are impacted.

Jeremy Coller, Founder, FAIRR Initiative, said, Globally, governments are setting bold climate and nature goals, but in the same breath are undermining those ambitions with almost $500 billion in harmful agricultural subsidies or high-emitting commodities such as red meat.

Its time for the G20 to listen to investors call to support a sustainable food industry and offer reassurance that governments' left hand knows what the right hand is doing. We need to realign subsidies to nature goals to support a transition for farmers and to ensure a level regulatory playing field for alternative proteins and other sustainable solutions."

Dr Helena Wright, Policy Director, FAIRR, said, Governments are subsidising a broken food system which is the primary driver of biodiversity loss globally. Given that an estimated $44 trillion of economic value relies on natural services like pollination and fresh water, this presents an enormous material risk to the value of long-term investment portfolios".

Rachel Crossley, Head of Stewardship, Europe, BNP Paribas Asset Management, said: Climate change and nature loss are having substantial negative impacts on the real economy, and present systemic risks to the capital markets.

"The food system is responsible for more than a third of global greenhouse gas emissions, and is the leading threat to 86% of species at risk of extinction. Countries agricultural subsidy regimes have been found to drive many of these impacts.

As a major asset manager, investing across the global food system, and committed to addressing climate change and nature loss through stewardship and engagement, we urge the G20 to implement wholesale reforms to current regimes and to repurpose subsidies to facilitate the delivery of global climate and biodiversity commitments. This will help to protect both the future of our planet and the financial security of our clients.

Alexander Burr, ESG policy lead at Legal & General Investment Management (LGIM), said: As a major long-term investor with global coverage, we engage with policymakers to help them identify and address emerging risks, so they can take transformative steps to tackle systemic market issues and accelerate progress against complex global sustainability challenges.

It is clear that we must work together to rapidly accelerate action if we are to meet the global commitments on nature and climate by 2030 and 2050.

There is a real opportunity for governments worldwide to transform their vast, environmentally harmful, agricultural support programmes in a manner that supports a just transition to net zero and the restoration of nature.

In 2021, FAIRR was part of an alliance calling the EUs CAP reforms to include reduced direct support for high-emitting commodities such as beef and dairy.

The investor network says, "We cannot hope to achieve the decarbonisation goals of the 2015 Paris Agreement without substantial changes to the food industry, as it is one of the most carbon-intensive sectors of the global economy. The industry is also the biggest driver of biodiversity loss globally."

It says public subsidies incentivise damaging activities such as habitat destruction, as more land is converted for monocrops and intensive animal farming. It says intensive livestock production is a large source of pollution, generating 3.12 billion tonnes of waste as manure annually, exceeding all other major forms of waste.

FAIRR welcomed global leaders agreeing at the UN Biodiversity Conference in Montreal last year to identify by 2025, and eliminate, phase out, or reform, incentives worth at least $500 billion per year by 2030, including subsidies harmful for biodiversity.
Surveys from the US tell us that most adults only have between three to five real friends. That doesnt seem a lot, especially if we have lots of interests.

Friends dont always pop up where you expect to find them either, but if youre willing to break the ice, they will pop up.

School friends are precious because, with the passing of time, they are the ones who remember your parents and siblings, the house you grew up in, your classmates and so much that newer friends will never know.

My school friend was, and still is, a year my senior. (Thats very important because, even in our late seventies, I will never be as old as she is!)

Weve always kept in touch and enjoy leisurely lunches, a reminisce and a good giggle. Making new friends does not diminish this bond in any way.

Seven or eight years ago lunching al fresco in a Tuscan farm, amid vines and lemon groves, new connections emerged between a disparate group of people who had just met a day or two earlier.

We were all looking forward to the holiday highlight, the open-air performance of Puccinis Madam Butterfly at Torre dl Lago.

A week later, as we parted at the airport vowing to keep in touch, this Humming Chorus meant it. Weve had Christmas dinners, and opera nights; and several have travelled together since.

This summer Amsterdam and Bruges were the destinations, all organised by one of the guys who loves planning these sorts of things.

It was perhaps on this trip that we had to accept that this group is no longer in the first flush of youth, despite how we feel about ourselves.

It hit home when a staff member told us Its lovely to see old people like you travelling abroad and having such fun. Old people, like us!

Now, we may have had one walking frame and a few thousand tablets between us, but old. Never! And certainly never too old to make new friends.

Escorted holidays can set the ball rolling and it was on one of these six years ago that we got chatting to two women that my companion had recognised at the airport.

We were shown to our table  for six  and I asked the pair in the queue behind us, sisters from Cork, if theyd like to join us. We chatted and laughed together for the rest of the week as we got to know each other.

Since then weve benefitted from our free travel passes to meet for some great mini breaks together in places like Connemara, Fota and Youghal.

In Kilkenny, we found ourselves in a taxi with a glitterball that changed colours as we sang along to The Galway Girl. The young ones with their hen parties had nothing on us.

Weve visited museums, galleries and exhibitions together, all outings that may not have happened if we hadnt met.

Doctors say its important not to become creatures of habit. Expanding our horizons keeps life interesting.

Trying something new is a challenge and will definitely expand your chances of meeting new people. You dont have to be good at anything to enjoy it.

And autumn is an ideal time to do this with a mesmerising variety of activities to be found all over the country.

Eleven years ago I enrolled in a daytime adult education watercolour class. With a diagnosis of Parkinsons, I decided to try painting as a means of keeping the manual flexibility I had. I couldnt paint. There I met Paula, who could.

Over a cup of coffee, I told her that despite my lack of talent I had always fancied the idea of going on a painting holiday. Another stranger said she loved that idea too.

The following summer saw the three of us, totally out of our depth, in Olhao in Portugal, having the time of our lives. That class sowed the seeds of a genuine circle of real friendships, and a bit of art too.

Its easy to feel intimidated about getting to know new people, but classes or groups of like-minded people make that much simpler than joining a club where everyone can have their own cliques. They probably havent, but it often seems so.

All it takes is a timid suggestion: Anyone fancy going for a coffee afterwards? I was thinking of going to that new exhibition in the Crawford Gallery Im a total beginner  are you all experts?

The local libraries are a great place to start. Recently, fortnightly Scrabble sessions at mine caught my eye. Ive only been once so far, but you never know who Ill meet there over the tiles Three to five real friends doesnt seem to be nearly enough, no matter what the surveys say, but I do know that its never too late to make new friends.
Mental health advocacy groups have criticised the HSEs counselling support network as not fit for purpose as thousands of people wait to see public therapists.

Figures seen by the Irish Examiner reveal there are currently 4,298 people waiting to be given a counselling appointment within the primary care system.

The figures, provided by the HSE through a parliamentary question from Cork North-West Fianna Fail TD Michael Moynihan, also detail that 2,923 of those are waiting between one and six months for their appointment with a counsellor.

An additional 687 people have been waiting for over six months for an appointment.

The longest waiting lists can be seen in Laois, Offaly, Longford, Westmeath, Louth, and Meath, where there are currently 773 people who are waiting to be seen.

Counselling in Primary Care (CIPC) services are only available to adults over 18 who are medical card holders and who have received a referral from either a GP or primary care team.

The service particularly specialises in people who are dealing with mild to moderate psychological or emotional difficulties, including depression, anxiety and panic attacks.

As part of the service, people are able to access up to eight counselling sessions with qualified professionals.

Mr Moynihan said the figures speak for themselves and that there needed to be a fundamental focus on tackling waiting lists.

'The system is not working'

Mental Health Reform, an advocacy group calling for change within the sector, said that figures were not a huge surprise.

Its of a concern that people across the country arent getting the same quality and standard and access, said Fiona Coyle, chief executive of Mental Health Reform.

I think the system is not working for those who need support, I think thats quite clear, Ms Coyle said.

People need the right care at the right time, Ms Coyle said, adding that there needed to be leadership both within the HSE and in Government on the issue.

However, Ms Coyle said that part of the issue may be staffing within primary care counselling services, citing both recruitment and retention of staff.

To combat this, Ms Coyle suggested that both the community and voluntary sector could step in to assist the HSE in bringing down waiting lists.





In a statement, the HSE said that wait times vary across the country, depending on the location of the service.

Waiting times for CIPC vary across the country depending on referral rates, service delivery model, staffing levels and individual geographic factors, a spokesperson said.

CIPC is a demand-led service with the counselling contract offered based on the assessed needs of the client.

As the number of clients seeking counselling exceeds the number of counselling spaces available at any one time there is a waiting time for counselling.

Timely access to counselling is important, not just for a positive service user experience but also at a clinical level.

The spokesperson added that additional funding to the CIPC was provided as part of the Governments Waiting List Action Plan to help reduce the waiting list.

According to the HSE, CIPC receives approximately 19,000 referrals each year from GPs and community healthcare providers. The services themselves are available in more than 240 locations, which are mainly primary care centres.
The Government is to meet the Road Safety Authority and gardai to try to address the spike in road deaths which has so far seen 20% more fatalities in 2023 than last year, and 40% more than 2019.

Junior Transport Minister Jack Chambers has also said a review that will "radically change" the "mishmash of speed limits across the country will be before the Government in the coming weeks.

Mr Chambers said the progress made in reducing road deaths in recent years has been reversed with a very worrying trend emerging in its place. The deaths of two motorcyclists on Sunday evening, along with the tragic loss of four young people in a crash at Clonmel on Friday, brought the number of deaths on Irish roads this year to 120.

Among those who have died so far in 2023 are 27 pedestrians, 43 drivers, 26 passengers, 17 motorcyclists, three pedal cyclists, three e-scooter riders and one pillion passenger.

Last year saw a total of 156 road deaths, the highest number since 2016. By the beginning of August, the Road Safety Authority was already saying that, should current trends continue, then the number of lives lost on the roads this year could reach 168.

At that stage, the RSA and gardai were forecasting this potential figure with a stark warning. However, as we enter the last four months of the year, it is feared the number of fatalities could now eclipse that predicted figure.

Mr Chambers said he is absolutely devastated and shocked by the terrible tragedy in Clonmel, adding that four young lives [were] lost in a split second as he extended his condolences. The minister said work is underway to try to reverse the worrying trend that has emerged on the roads this year.

We are working with the Road Safety Authority as part of the road safety committee that I chair on messaging and refreshing the communication so we target the road safety message at the cohort where we see the underlying trend. Mr Chambers said an updated communications campaign is being worked on by the Road Safety Authority in this area.

But separately were working on other initiatives with An Garda Siochana, expanding the GoSafe contract, for example, to address the issue of speeding. I have a speed limit review which Ill be bringing to Government in the coming weeks which will quite radically change a lot of the fragmentation and mishmash of speed limits that we see on our roads system.

The minister told RTE radio he would also be discussing enforcement of road safety laws with gardai at the road safety committee, which meets quarterly. I think it can be improved, he added when asked about enforcement and visibility from An Garda Siochana.

Mr Chambers said strengthened enforcement will be important between now and the end of the year "to address this very worrying trend.

Clonmel crash

Meanwhile, books of condolence opened on Monday in Clonmel for the four victims of a road crash in the Co. Tipperary town. Twenty-four-year-old Luke McSweeney, his 18-year-old sister Grace McSweeney and Zoey Coffey and Nicole Murphy, both also aged 18, were killed in the collision on Friday evening.

A book for each victim was opened at the local council offices at County Hall in Clonmel on Monday morning. Opening the books of condolences, Mayor of Clonmel, Richie Molloy, said: "[Sundays] vigil really showed the community coming out, I suppose, to give some solace to the families, and we just can only barely imagine the trauma that they're going through.

"I think the books are another way for the people of the town to come out and to show their sympathy."
Irish pilots are more anxious than crews elsewhere in Europe about the risk of drifting off to sleep while in the cockpit, new survey data shows.

According to a report on pilot fatigue conducted by the European Cockpit Association (ECA), which surveyed nearly 7,000 pilots, three out of four pilots in Europe experienced at least one microsleep whilst operating an aircraft in the past month.

The survey found that a further quarter had five or more microsleeps, which is defined as falling asleep for at least a few seconds.

Asleep in the cockpit

For context, microsleeps are said to be responsible for more than 16% of road fatalities in the US every year.

Investigators found that pilot fatigue contributed to the Air France flight AF447 disaster in 2009 which claimed 228 lives. Picture: Eraldo Peres/AP

The pilot of the doomed Air France flight 447 in 2009, which killed 228 passengers and crew, was subsequently found to have insufficient sleep when the accident occurred, exacerbating the situation that ended with the plane crashing into the Atlantic en route to Paris from Rio.

The ECA survey also found 73% of pilots reported having insufficient rest to allow them to recover from fatigue between duties, while a mere 2% of pilots said fatigue risk at their respective airlines was very well managed.

Irish pilots criticise airline procedures

Nearly 62% of Irish pilots said that fatigue risk was not well managed, while under 6% said their airlines communicated well with them when it came to fatigue.

Just a fifth of Irish pilots said that it was easy to access their fatigue reporting system, way below the European average of 44%.

While a quarter of European pilots said that reports are quick and easy to complete, fewer than 10% of their Irish counterparts said the same.

Less than 4% of Irish pilots said that submitting fatigue reports led to operational changes to improve safety, compared to 10% of the overall European-wide number.

Irish and Maltese pilots are the least trusting of the current system in Europe, while 80% of Irish, Maltese, Spanish, and British pilots are concerned about the implications of refusing to extend flying time beyond their official duty.

Daniel Langan, officer with the Irish Air Line Pilots Association, told the Irish Examiner that the results were unsurprising.

Short-haul pilots in particular are being pushed to the absolute limit, he said.

Some are flying six days in a row for 12 hours without so much as a break for lunch and are invariably shattered by the end of it.

"Pilots have long sounded the alarm that the current systems are not working.

Mr Langan said that flying should be treated the same as road haulage where lorry drivers are mandated to be fully rested after certain distances in a timeframe.

In contrast to US regulators which insist on three pilots in the cockpit for long-haul flights, the European Union Aviation Safety Agencys rule is for just two.

Mr Langan said a third person would enhance safety.

There is a squeeze on pilots that is just not sustainable in its present form, he said.
The President of the European Council, Charles Michel, discussed the Nagorno-Karabakh issue with the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Canada, Melanie Joly, the latter announced on Xformer Twitter.

August 29, 2023, 13:38 European Council President, Canada FM discussed Karabakh issue

STEPANAKERT, AUGUST 29, ARTSAKHPRESS: She noted that during the meeting they addressed the issues in various regions of the world.

"We discussed his vision for European Union expansion in the Balkans, the conflict in Nagorno-Karabakh, and next steps to address the crisis in Haiti," FM Joly wrote.
Irish passengers across Europe and the UK have been left stranded at airports after chaotic scenes on Monday saw the UK's airspace management system crash.

Hundreds of flights were cancelled from Dublin Airport while Cork and Shannon airports also experienced delays due to the incident.

While the "technical issue" was fixed after a few hours, the knock-on impact could affect passengers for days, and there are still many unanswered questions.

What caused the chaos?

On Monday morning, Britain's National Air Traffic Services (Nats) suffered a technical issue.

The fault affected the system's ability to process flight plans - meaning that staff had to input them manually.

Naturally, this cannot be done at the same speed, so traffic flow restrictions had to be enforced

Though the technical fault was resolved at around 3.30pm on Monday, the effects of the downtime have been severe and will continue into the next couple of days.

What happens if my flight gets/got cancelled?

Brexit makes things a little trickier, but the EU consumer rights apply if:

Your flight arrives in the EU, from outside the EU, but is operated by an EU airline

Your flight departs from within the EU, to a non-EU country, and is by either an EU or a non-EU airline.

If those apply to you, you have the right to choose between a reimbursement, re-routing or a new return flight.

Furthermore, you can ask for assistance at the airport.

However, if the cancellation is caused by "extraordinary circumstances", this may not apply. It is unclear if the Nats failure falls under this.

How long of a delay is needed before I can claim compensation?

If you arrived at your final destination with a delay of more than three hours, you are entitled to compensation, unless the delay was due to extraordinary circumstances.

If you experienced a delay of more than two hours at departure or your arrival at your final destination is significantly delayed, the airline must notify you in writing of the rules for compensation and assistance.

When will everything be fixed and back to normal?

We don't actually know yet.

A lot of it will be down to the airlines, but there is now a separate issue as a result of the Nats crash.

Due to the chaos, some flight crews will now be working "out of hours" - so they will need breaks and gaps.

That will mean that there will be plenty of planes, but no one to fly them.

Could it happen again?

Yes.

Due to that glitch by Nats, a 'back-up' system has been put in place.

However, despite reports, the UK government does not believe the travel disruption was caused by a cybersecurity incident or 'hacking'.

Asked what had happened, Britain's Transport Minister Mark Harper told GB News: "This was a technical fault. We do not think this was a cybersecurity incident.

"And what will happen now with an incident of this magnitude is there will be an independent review."
An Irish holidaymaker has been found dead in his hotel room in a resort in San Antonio, Ibiza.

Police described the man as a 34-year-old Irish national.

He was staying at the four-star Hotel Tropical in the centre of San Antonio, and a five-minute walk from the nearest beach.

Hotel sources confirmed the holidaymaker was Irish, although the hotel has said it will not be making any official comment.

An investigation into the tourists death is ongoing.

Police are reportedly looking at the possibility the death was drug-related.

A spokesman for the Civil Guard said: I can confirm we are investigating the death of an Irish national at a hotel in San Antonio in Ibiza.

The autopsy will help investigators determine the cause of death.

The alarm was raised just before 4pm on Monday. Emergency responders rushed to the hotel but the tourist was pronounced dead at the scene.

He is said to have been staying with friends at the hotel, with well-placed sources saying they had interviewed a cousin.

A spokesman for the Department of Foreign Affairs said: The Department of Foreign Affairs is aware of the case and providing consular assistance. As with all consular cases, the Department does not comment on the details of individual cases.
A sex offender who came to Ireland for a holiday and rented an apartment in Dun Laoghaire has been released on bail pending trial for failing to notify gardai that he was in the country.

Randi Dextroy Gladston, aged 39, a Guyana national of no fixed abode but living in Suriname, had been deported from the UK in 2015 after being placed on the sex offenders register there.

The construction worker appeared before Judge John Brennan at Dublin District Court on Tuesday and faced bail objections on flight-risk grounds.

Divisional Protective Services unit Garda Lee Kelly told Judge Brennan the accused's case is to be dealt with on indictment at the circuit court level, which has wider sentencing powers. The offence can carry a five-year sentence.

He said Gladston had told him he had family in Suriname and he was due to get married to his partner there in three weeks.

Garda Kelly told the court that Gladston had booked accommodation in Dun Laoghaire for two weeks commencing on August 11 and had no ties to this jurisdiction. He booked an extra day in his 600-a-week accommodation.

Garda Lee alleged Gladston, who is a father, attempted to get a ferry to the UK on August 26 but was refused access. He had been deported from the UK eight years ago after he was placed on the sex offenders register there for an indefinite period.

The court heard he had 545 on him at the time of his arrest. The garda said that under the law, the accused should have notified gardai of his presence in the State within seven days. Gardai were unaware of how he came to Ireland as well, the court heard.

Pleading for bail, Kevin McCrave, defending, said his client had been on holiday to meet with relatives coming over from the UK. The barrister explained that Gladston had missed his flight and then went on the ferry to get to Paris to catch a cheap flight back to Suriname, where he lives.

He added that Gladston wished to have the case dealt with quickly, would plead guilty, and abide by any terms the court imposed.

Judge Brennan released him on 500 bail and ordered him to notify gardai of his new address, sign on three days a week at the local gardai station, surrender his passport, and provide gardai with a contact phone number.

Gladston, who did not address the court, was granted legal aid and ordered to appear again on October 10.
More than 200 people roared in support when staff, politicians and parents vowed to keep the Before 5 family centre in Corks northside open at a protest on Tuesday against its sudden closure.

Were not going to take this lying down, were going to fight, Lilian Hannover, who has worked at Before 5 for 28 years, told the crowds. Theyre not going to take this centre from us.

Were not going to take this lying down, were going to fight. Lillian Hanover (centre) with some of the staff members protesting over the closure of the Before 5 Family Centre and Creche in Churchfield, Cork. Picture: Dan Linehan

More than 100 children and 14 staff were due to return to Before 5 from this week but they received text messages on Thursday saying that their jobs and childcare places were no more and the company was going into imminent liquidation.

One of those impacted is Robyn Kenneally, age 3, who was due to start pre-school. Attending creche at the centre last year helped the little girl, who is non-verbal, improve hugely her mum, Nicola Harris said.

She now fears her daughter will regress without a place there this year.

Young Robyn Kenneally, who is non-verbal, may regress without a place there this year, according to her mother. Picture: Dan Linehan

She needs the stability of early years education, her grandmother, Caroline Barrett said. And Nicola will have a battle finding childcare for her because she has additional needs.

Nicola has already tried seven other childcare providers since news of the centres closure broke late last week, but nowhere has offered her a place.

She has nowhere to go. I might have to take time off work to look after her, and we have a mortgage to pay and were planning our wedding in June.

And to be told through a text? Its disgraceful. These are childrens lives. Robyns non-verbal at the moment and she had been approved for an AIMs [education] assistant here. Now thats gone.

A statement from the board of the Before 5 Family Centre released on Tuesday said that it is now in the process of liquidation.

Four-year-old Ava Flannagan protesting over the closure of the Before 5 Family Centre. Picture Dan Linehan

The board of Before 5 Family Centre is engaging in constructive dialogue with alternative childcare providers to secure alternative childcare provision for the area in the future, it said. Further communication will be issued early next week as talks progress.

Sinn Fein TD Thomas Gould, whose children attended the centre, said that Cork City Childcare is now engaging in constructive dialogue with other community childcare providers which may be able to take over at the centre.

Theyre also talking to the diocese [which owns the building]. Theyre seeking a positive outcome and theyre hoping to have further communication next week, Mr Gould said. Positive work is being done but time is of the essence. More than 100 children are due to go back there, we need this done quickly."

Fianna Fail TD Padraig OSullivan said that political representatives were present to show solidarity with the staff and the children. Its not right that one week before school was due to recommence they would get this notification, Mr OSullivan said.

Young Archie O'Sullivan and his brothers Ben and Oliver out to protest over the centre's closure. Picture Dan Linehan

People from all parties are trying to bring this to a successful conclusion. As of this morning, there was a meeting with Cork Community Childcare, the Church and others and we were told that a potential provider was identified. At the moment, things look like they could be successfully resolved.

It would be a big loss to the northside if it was not saved.

Mick Barry speaking at the protest. Pre-school needs to be organised in the same way as primary education  by the State, with no fees and decent pay for staff. Picture Dan Linehan

People Before Profit-Solidarity TD Mick Barry called for Corks three Cabinet Ministers, who are in a different Cork constituency, to break their silence and act to save this centre.

For the sake of the kids, for the sake of the workers, for the sake of the northside, people are going to fight," he said.

This is a national issue. The government has organised childcare in such a way that half is for-profit and half is not-for-profit but is not properly financed.

Pre-school needs to be organised in the same way as primary education  by the State, with no fees and decent pay for staff.

Family members and their children protest over the closure of the Before 5 Family Centre and Creche in Churchfield, Cork. Picture Dan Linehan

Fianna Fail councillor Tony Fitzgerald welcomed what he believed were very positive meetings on Tuesday morning between Cork City Childcare, diocese representatives and potential alternative childcare providers.

Our understanding is that this is not a funding issue  there is funding from Tusla, Pobal, the HSE, and the Department of Social Protection for community employment schemes. So hopefully these talks will conclude with a positive outcome for the children and staff alike.

Sinn Fein councillor Mick Nugent said that the campaign to save the family centre was kickstarted today.

This was one of the biggest demonstrations in the northside in many years. People have rallied to support the Before 5 family centre, to support the staff, the children and the parents. Hopefully, well have progress in the next week or so. If not, we could all be back out here again.
There have been calls for civil servants to be reined in after precast concrete ready-mix was confirmed to be included within the Governments new concrete levy.

The controversial levy on concrete products was initially announced as part of Budget 2023, but following a significant backlash from Government backbenchers and industry representatives, the tax was delayed and reduced from 10% to 5%.

There had previously been assurances from the then-finance minister Paschal Donohoe that precast concrete would be completely excluded from the levy.

In a statement last October, Mr Donohoe said: I acknowledge the value of Irelands pre-cast concrete sector, and therefore I have removed pre-cast concrete products from the scope of this levy.

However, Finance Minister Michael McGrath confirmed yesterday that the levy would take into account the ready-mix used in precast concrete.

According to the Society of Chartered Surveyors, the levy is expected to add an additional 1,200 to the cost of a new three-bed house.

The tax itself was brought forward as part of efforts to pay for the multi-billion mica redress scheme.

Independent TD Sean Canney, who has been critical of the tax since its announcement, told the Irish Examiner that he did not blame either Mr Donohoe or Mr McGrath for the inclusion of precast concrete ready-mix within the levy.

Mr Canney said that officials within Revenue had taken a different interpretation of the levy rules compared to the Government.

There has been a different interpretation by officials and I think that they need to be reined in on this, Mr Canney said.

Mr Canney said that he was confident that Mr McGrath would be able to put the brakes on the matter and described it as an anomaly.

Fianna Fail backbencher John Lahart had also raised concerns about the inclusion of precast concrete ready-mix, with the Dublin South-West TD writing to Mr McGrath over the matter.

In his letter, Mr Lahart raised concern about the potential impact of the levy on the competitiveness of the construction industry internationally.

According to the Society of Chartered Surveyors, the levy is expected to add an additional 1,200 to the cost of a new three-bed house.

In particular, he said that precast manufacturers in Northern Ireland will have a competitive advantage compared to manufacturers in this State.

Asked whether or not the Government had reneged on its previous commitments to exclude precast concrete, Mr McGrath said that Revenue was interpreting the legislation as it had been passed.

So, the intention of the legislation was that the added value element of the precast would be exempt but that the ready-mix component of it is subject to the levy and so thats the basis of the Revenues interpretation and they will be ensuring that the levy is applied in accordance with the law.

They have no option in that regard Thats the current legal position and the Revenue Commissioners are duty-bound to implement the law as it currently stands.

Mr McGrath added that he would be monitoring the impact of the levy when it comes into effect on Friday.

Construction Industry Federation director general Hubert Fitzpatrick said that the levy would add "further viability challenges" and increase the costs of construction.
I was in Vibes and Scribes, buying 'On Palestine' by Noam Chomsky while wishing more people were around to watch me do so. There was one other customer in the store but she was too busy browsing fiction to pay any attention to me or Noam.

At the very least, I hoped that the shop assistant would swoon over my intellectual purchase. She just asked if I needed a bag and went about fulfilling the transaction. I considered a throwaway line like "I love his work" to draw more attention to it.

For those unfamiliar with Noam Chomsky, he is a modern-day philosopher, often cited as the 'father of modern linguistics'. There's nothing too crazy about buying a Chomsky book. But he is one of those writers where 90% of the appeal comes from saying you've read their book. He's in a similar class to Tolstoy, Jane Austen or James Joyce. I don't think there's a person alive who would read Ulysses if they couldn't tell anyone about it.

The reason I bought the book wasn't because I'm some haughty intellect. Quite the opposite. I bought it because I'm tragically out of touch with the world around me and I was being reminded of my ignorance on a daily basis.

Hip placement

There's a cafe near where I live that is, quite possibly, the cultural centre of Cork City. All of the customers there are so earthy and hip. I've no doubt that the majority of clientele grow their own veg and read poetry for pleasure.

For a period, a Palestinian flag flew above the cafe and its presence was a constant reminder of my unworldliness. The war in Palestine was one of those things that was too far outside my self-involved echo chamber for me to know much about.

There was a deeper psychological issue at play also. Being out of touch with current events brought me back to the schoolyard, where knowing less than others could be so cruelly pounced upon.

In those days, intellectual shortcomings had to do with newly discovered explicit terms. If you were absent from school, the few days you missed could be when everyone learned some new dirty word. At 10 years old, you'd be the pariah who didn't know what 'virgin' or 'frigid' meant.

One kid missed school when we all found out about sexual positions. When asked his favourite position, he replied "corner forward" and had to endure the 90s equivalent of becoming a meme.

Of course, none of us had favourite positions but that was beside the point. Back then, kids would ask questions specifically to catch you out. At age eight, I returned to class after missing a week of school. When the first thing my classmates asked me was, "Are you a Mars or a Snickers?" I feared the worst.

Tentatively I chose Snickers and was quickly mocked for "liking nuts''. Of course, if I had opted for Mars they would have laughed at me for "having no nuts". Looking back, neither was bad. But for eight-year-old Kerry boys, whose only acceptable orientation was sports-mad-asexual, possessing no testicles or being attracted to them was social suicide.

In my teens, I realised that the best way to avoid such awkward situations was to fake assertiveness. Whenever I was asked about something Id respond confidently, Well obviously I know. Don't you? This call-your-bluff strategy comes off a tad strange in adulthood.

My cluelessness continued throughout my life. The categories of ignorance matured slightly and so did my deflection strategies. Instead of calling their bluff, I'd simply change the subject, usually by asking a personal question. "Enough about what's going on in Iraq. I want to know what's going on with you. How have you been?"

After finishing university, it dawned on me that I was now a grown-up and should know about grown-up things and the world around me. I took it upon myself to go on little Google adventures where I would fill in the Iraq-sized gaps in my intellect.

Who fought in the Vietnam War? And the American Civil War? What's happening in Syria? What was the Watergate Scandal? Why do people wear Che Guevara t-shirts? Was Mao a goodie or baddie?

I kept this going for a while but found it difficult to maintain. There was simply too much going on. At some point, I read a quote that was oddly freeing. It said that "only day traders and the President of the United States need to keep up-to-date on everything at all times." I latched on to this advice and retreated blissfully into my bubble of ignorance.

But every now and again something happens that forces me to reassess my stance. It could be a dinner party where everyone is as well-versed on a topic as a BBC panellist. Or it could be a flag flying over a cafe, whose inner circle I so desperately want to infiltrate.

And what is happening in Palestine, you ask?

Well, I bought a book by Noam Chomsky, so obviously I know all about it. You can ignore the fact that it's still on my shelf in mint condition and wholly un-dogeared. I hardly bought it just for show. That'd be a bit pretentious.

But enough about that. How's the family? Everyone's doing well I hope?
Florida residents are loading up on sandbags and evacuating homes in low-lying areas along the Gulf Coast as Tropical Storm Idalia intensifies, with forecasters predicting it will hit in days as a major hurricane.

Idalia earlier thrashed Cuba with heavy rain, especially in the western of the island, where the tobacco-producing province of Pinar del Rio is still recovering from the devastation caused by Hurricane Ian almost a year ago.

Damage in Fort Myers Beach, Florida, caused by Hurricane Ian in October last year (Rebecca Blackwell/AP)

Authorities in the province issued a state of alert, and residents were evacuated as authorities monitored the Cuyaguateje river for possible flooding. As much as 4in of rain fell in Cuba on Sunday, meteorological stations reported.

Idalia is expected to start affecting Florida with hurricane-force winds as soon as late on Tuesday and arrive on the coast by Wednesday.

It is the first storm to hit Florida this hurricane season and a potentially big blow to the state, which is also dealing with lingering damage from Hurricane Ian.

Idalia is the latest in a summer of natural disasters, including wildfires in Hawaii, Canada and Greece, the first tropical storm to hit California in 84 years, and devastating flooding in Vermont.

Florida governor Ron DeSantis declared a state of emergency in 46 counties, a broad area that stretches across the northern half of the state from the Gulf Coast to the Atlantic Coast.

Governor Ron DeSantis Delivers Update on Tropical Storm Idalia https://t.co/CLzOvxUGR7  Ron DeSantis (@GovRonDeSantis) August 28, 2023

The state has mobilised 1,100 National Guard members, who have 2,400 high-water vehicles and 12 aircraft for rescue and recovery efforts.

Tampa International Airport and St Pete-Clearwater International Airport said they would close on Tuesday, and the Sunrail commuter rail service in Orlando was being suspended.

Mr DeSantis warned of a major impact to the state, noting the potential for Idalia to become a Category 3 hurricane.

The property  we can rebuild someones home, he said during a news conference on Monday. You cant unring the bell, though, if somebody stays in harms way and does battle with Mother Nature.

Large parts of the western coast are at risk of storm surges and floods. Pasco and Levy counties, north of Tampa, ordered mandatory evacuations for some residents. In Levy County, officials said residents of Cedar Key must be off the island by Tuesday evening because storm surges would make bridges impassable.

Once the storm surge comes in, help may not be available to reach you, the county said in a public advisory.

4PM CDT 28 Aug: #Idalia is forecast to become a hurricane as it enters the Gulf of Mexico. There is a danger of life-threatening storm surge along portions of the Florida coastline. Follow any advice from local officials Visit https://t.co/tW4KeGe9uJ for more information pic.twitter.com/7RsDfWJNdw  National Hurricane Center (@NHC_Atlantic) August 28, 2023

The National Hurricane Centre in Miami issued a hurricane warning on Monday from Longboat Key in the Sarasota area to the Holocene River, up past Tampa Bay.

President Joe Biden spoke to Mr DeSantis on Monday morning, telling the Florida governor he had approved an emergency declaration for the state, the White House said in a news release.

South-west Florida is still recovering from Hurricane Ian, which was responsible last year for almost 150 deaths. The Category 5 hurricane damaged 52,000 structures, nearly 20,000 of which were destroyed or severely damaged.
A Pakistani appeals court has suspended the corruption conviction and three-year prison sentence of Imran Khan in a legal victory for the embattled former prime minister, his lawyers and court officials said on Tuesday.

Although he will face a retrial in due course, the ruling will enable the popular 70-year-old politician to contest the forthcoming parliamentary elections.

Khan has denied the charges, insisting he did not violate any rules.

Islamabad High Court also granted bail for Khan, but his detention will continue at least until Wednesday because of his arrest in another case for allegedly revealing official secrets.

It was not immediately clear if he will be released at all as he faces a multitude of other charges brought since he was ousted in a no-confidence vote in the parliament in April 2022.

Lawyers and supporters of jailed former prime minister Imran Khan react after the ruling by Islamabad High Court (Anjum Naveed/AP)

A member of Khans legal team, Shoaib Shaheen, said the court issued a brief verbal order, with a written ruling to be be issued later.

Khan was convicted and sentenced earlier this month by another court which found him guilty of concealing assets after selling state gifts he received while in office.

Babar Awan, another of Khans senior lawyers, said after the announcement of the decision: Imran Khan is again entitled to lead his Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party after todays court order.

Earlier this month, Pakistans Election Commission had disqualified Khan from running for office for five years. Under Pakistans laws, no convicted person is eligible to lead a party, run in elections, or hold public office.

Since he was ousted, Khan has said his removal was a conspiracy by the United States, his successor, Shehbaz Sharif, and the Pakistani military  accusations they all deny.

Mr Sharif stepped down this month after the parliaments term ended.

Babar Awan, a leading member of Imran Khans legal team, talks to the media outside Islamabad High Court (Anjum Naveed/AP)

Meanwhile, Pakistan is facing deepening economic and political turmoil.

The forthcoming vote has been complicated by an announcement by the election oversight body that polls must be delayed for at least three to four months because it needs more time to redraw constituencies to reflect the recently held census.

Under the constitution, a vote is to be held in October or November.

Until then, caretaker-Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar is running the day-to-day affairs.

He has said he will ensure the vote is held in a free, fair and transparent manner.
The Vatican has sought to calm the uproar that erupted after Pope Francis praised Russias imperialist past during a video conference with Russian Catholics youths, insisting that he never intended to encourage modern-day Russian aggression in Ukraine.

Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni said on Tuesday that Francis merely wanted to highlight the positive aspects of Russias spiritual and cultural history when he praised Russias imperial rulers Peter and Catherine the Great, encouraging young people to remember that past and hailing their way of being Russian.

Francis certainly didnt want to exalt imperialistic logic or government personalities, who were cited to indicate certain historic periods of reference, Mr Bruni said in a statement.

The Vatican, and before it the Holy Sees embassy in Ukraine, spoke out after Ukraines Greek Catholic leader, His Beatitude Sviatoslav Shevchuk, bitterly complained about Francis remarks.

Pope Francis told Russian Catholic youths in off-the-cuff remarks during a video conference to always remember their past (Andrew Medichini/AP)

The Vatican never published the comments, but they were shared on social media following the Popes video conference with a Catholic youth encounter in St Petersburg on Friday.

In his off-the-cuff remarks, Francis told the young Russians to always remember their past.

Never forget your inheritance. You are the heirs of the great Russia  the great Russia of the saints, of the kings, of the great Russia of Peter the Great, of Catherine II, that great imperial Russia, cultivated, with so much culture and humanity, he said, according to the video clip.

Never forget this inheritance. You are the heirs of the great Mother Russia. Go forward. And thank you. Thank you for your way of being, for your way of being Russian.

Mr Shevchuk, who has frequently spoken out to complain about Franciss interventions on Russia, issued a blistering reply.

He said the reference to Russias imperial leaders refer to the worst example of Russian imperialism and extreme nationalism.

We fear that those words are understood by some as an encouragement of precisely this nationalism and imperialism, which is the real cause of the war in Ukraine

We fear that those words are understood by some as an encouragement of precisely this nationalism and imperialism, which is the real cause of the war in Ukraine, he said. War that every day brings death and destruction to our people.

Francis has occasionally enraged both sides in the war in Ukraine with his off-the-cuff remarks.

He has seemingly justified Russias invasion by saying Nato was barking at Russias gates with its eastward expansion.

At the same time, Moscow lodged a formal diplomatic protest when he blamed most of the cruelty of the war on Chechens and other minorities, in an apparent effort to spare ethnic Russian troops from criticism.

While he has frequently voiced solidarity with the martyred Ukrainian people, the Vatican has insisted it is not taking sides in the war, in the hope of trying to remain a neutral player in search of peace.
Two Singaporeans admitted in a court in the city state last week to illegally selling a Norwegian-made sonar system that was ultimately acquired by the Myanmar navy, the Straits Times reported Monday.

Hydronav Services sales manager Poiter Agus Kentjana, 57, and Wui Ong Chuan, 70, a director of the Singaporean firm, pleaded guilty on Friday to one count of cheating and one charge under the islands Strategic Goods (Control) Act, the newspaper reported.

According to prosecutors, Poiter and Wui conspired to mislead Norwegian firm Kongsberg Maritime, the maker of the seabed-mapping system, into believing that an Indonesian company would be its end-user. In fact, the system was first sold to Myanmar company Light of Universe for US$1.58 million, with the end user being the Myanmar Navy Hydrographic Center, which conducts survey activities in Myanmar waters, according to the newspaper.

On two previous occasions when the Myanmar Navy Hydrographic Center was listed as the end-user on application documents, Norwegian authorities refused to approve the export of the system, prompting Poiter to fraudulently list the Indonesian company as the end-user in a bid to get the shipment approved, the newspaper cited prosecutors as saying.

The system was shipped from Norway to Singapore on July 17, 2018 and exported to Myanmar three days later. The seabed-mapping tool uses two systems that require special permits in order to be exported under Singapores Strategic Goods (Control) Act. An investigation was launched after Singapore Customs officials were alerted to the fact that the permits had not been obtained.

Prosecutors are seeking fines of over $1 million from Hydronav and between $25,000 and $35,000 from each of the two men.

Sentencing is expected next month, the newspaper said.

While Norway is not a member of the European Unionwhich has imposed multiple sanctions and restrictions on doing business with Myanmar and the countrys militaryit is sensitive the possibility of incurring EU sanctions, which were cited as a reason for Norwegian telecom firm Telenors sale of its Myanmar operation in 2021.

Singapore has come under the spotlight from Myanmar democracy activists recently for being a preferred financial center for the regime.
Secretary of the Security Council of Armenia Armen Grigoryan on August 29 met in New Delhi with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modis National Security Advisor Ajit Doval.

August 29, 2023, 15:07 Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modis National Security Advisor briefed on Artsakh humanitarian crisis

STEPANAKERT, AUGUST 29, ARTSAKHPRESS: In a statement on social media, Grigoryan said he congratulated Ajit Doval on the successful landing of Chandrayaan-3 lunar probe.

I offered congratulations on the successful landing of the Chandrayaan-3 lunar probe. In this context we discussed the implementation of possible joint projects in space industry. We also discussed issues related to regional security developments, as part of which I briefed on the humanitarian crisis in Nagorno-Karabakh and attached importance to the involvement of the international community for overcoming it, Grigoryan said, adding that both sides lauded the course of development of the Armenian-Indian bilateral relations and discussed prospects of developing ties in a number of areas.
Myanmars junta has strongly rejected international remarks on the sixth anniversary of the Rohingya genocide, slamming them as politically motivated statements that failed to recognize the root cause and context of the violence.

Countries including the UK and US joined international organizations and local civil society groups in releasing statements on the 2017 exodus of more than 730,000 Rohingya forced out of Rakhine State into Bangladesh by the Myanmar militarys so-called clearance operations. The statements reaffirmed solidarity with the Rohingya community in the pursuit of justice and accountability for victims and survivors.

United Nations human rights chief Volker Turk on Thursday also reiterated the call for accountability and justice for hundreds of thousands of Rohingya driven from their homes in 2017, in what has been described as textbook ethnic cleansing.

He added that the Rohingya should be afforded safe and dignified return to their homes in Myanmar, but this was currently impossible given the precarious conditions in Rakhine State.

Furthermore, the military has shown no willingness to address systematic discrimination against the Rohingya, he said.

The juntas foreign affairs ministry responded by rejecting the term Rohingya, insisting the term could not be found in historical or legal documents of Myanmar.

Thus, deliberately using such terms and issuing statements and remarks to politicize the incident would not give any constructive support to Myanmars sincere efforts at early commencement of repatriation of verified displaced persons based on the bilateral arrangements between Myanmar and Bangladesh reached in 2017 and 2018 respectively, the ministry said in a statement issued on Monday.

It added that certain countries and international organizations had ignored the brutal acts of the Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army (ARSA), which it claimed had triggered the 2017 clearance operation in Rakhine.

The ministry insisted the militarys actions accorded with rules of engagement and were taken to restore peace in response to ARSAs synchronized attacks on police outposts and a regiment headquarters.

Meanwhile, the parallel civilian National Unity Government (NUG) acknowledged the egregious atrocities committed against the Rohingya people by the Myanmar military in 2017 in a statement issued on August 25 to mark the sixth anniversary of Rohingya Genocide Remembrance Day.

It said the NUG recognizes the Rohingya people as an integral part of Myanmar and as nationals and acknowledged with great shame the history of prejudice and exclusion that led to the atrocities.

It also pledged to create the conditions necessary to bring Myanmars Rohingya people home in voluntary, safe, dignified and sustainable ways while delivering justice to survivors of historic and continuing military atrocities.

We are also committed to social change and the complete overhaul of discriminatory laws in consultation with minority communities and their representatives, it stated.

The NUG recently appointed Rohingya activist U Aung Kyaw Moe as its deputy human rights minister.

The parallel government also pledged full cooperation with national and international accountability mechanisms including the International Court of Justice and the International Criminal Court.
Four villages have been emptied in Muse Township as fighting between Myanmars junta and the Taang National Liberation Army (TNLA) continues in northern Shan State near the Chinese border.

Fighting intensified near Mount Loi Tay Mein on Tuesday as the junta conducted two airstrikes on TNLA targets.

Taang (Palaung) residents and ethnic Shan communities from four villages were displaced due to the fighting, according to residents.

We can hear gunfire and bombardments. Three Taang villages and a Shan village have emptied due to the fighting, a Sei Lant villager said.

Three Taang villages near the battle zone were seized by TNLA troops, he added.

Sei Lant villagers are reportedly on high alert but continue to stay in their homes, around 1km from the battle zone.

We dont want to leave our village during harvest season. If we leave, we will lose everything and our village will be taken over, a villager said.

Sei Lants high school closed shortly after reopening four days ago, according to villagers.

At least 500 residents were displaced in Sei Lant village tract due to the fighting in early August.

Muse residents said they heard shelling from troops based near Muses trade zone on Monday.

TLNA reported that at least 15 clashes occurred in Muse, Kutkai and Lashio townships in August as junta infantry and their militia allies entered its territory.

Junta troops suffered casualties during the clashes, according to the TLNA.

The Irrawaddy could not independently verify the reports.

The regimes Light Infantry Division 99 has clashed with TNLA troops near Kho Mone village between Muse and Kutkai since Monday, according to the TNLA.

On Sunday, fighting broke out between Hpar Hpeik and Nam Tawng villages in Muse Township.

TNLA also ambushed a junta convoy of around 20 trucks traveling from Kutkai to Thenni townships on Saturday.
Thirteen ethnic Chin resistance fighters were killed and more than 10 others were injured on Monday in a failed attempt to occupy junta bases near the strategic mountaintop town of Thantlang in the western state, according to the Chin National Army (CNA), the armed wing of Chin National Front, which coordinated the attack.

Intense fighting began at 5am and lasted about 10 hours near the deserted, mountaintop town on Monday, Chin National Front (CNF) spokesperson Salai Htet Ni told The Irrawaddy on Tuesday.

Four Chin resistance groups attacked four military bases, including the main basea hilltop military outpost of Infantry Battalion 169 near the mountain, Salai Htet Ni said.

Resistance forces ambushed three military trucks carrying reinforcements from Hakha, Chin States capital, as they approached Thantlang, he said.

About 30 regime forces were killed and many others were injured during the 10-hour battle, according to Salai Htet Ni.

The Irrawaddy was unable to independently confirm casualty numbers.

Junta fighter jets conducted airstrikes to protect its bases and artillery units from Hakha Town shelled resistance forces during the battle

Resistance forces retreated from the area due to constant and heavy bombardment, according to the CNF.

Thantlang is at the frontline between junta troops and Chin resistance forces.

The towns entire population fled in September 2021 after being bombarded by junta forces.

Previously, it had been the target of repeated arson attacks, shelling and airstrikes by junta forces.

The junta has deployed between 150 and 200 troops at the military bases in and around the incinerated town. The main base is on a hilltop nearby.

If we can take the military bases in [and around] the town, we will have an advantage for our long-term military operations. Thantlang is a strategic base for us, Salai Htet Ni said.

On August 12, Chin resistance groups raided the headquarters of a military battalion based in nearby Falam Town, seizing its arsenal after inflicting a high number of casualties.
Two-and-a-half years after Senior General Min Aung Hlaing sent his tanks into Yangon and Naypyitaw, the question is not what Myanmars partners in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) can do about the attempted power grab, but whether the regional grouping can survive its present crisis. Critics would argue that ASEAN, once again, has revealed its weak spots and slid from political impotence to regional irrelevance. All signs indicate that China has seized the initiative and further strengthened its position as the West, usually a force to be reckoned with when it comes to putting pressure on Myanmars ruling generals, is preoccupied with Russias war against Ukraine.

ASEANs first, feeble attempt at addressing Min Aung Hlaings ill-fated power grab came on April 24, 2021, when he and leaders of the nine other member states met in Jakarta and agreed on a five-point consensus that called for an immediate cessation of violence as well as a constructive dialog among all parties concerned. The word consensus was carefully chosen because it is one of ASEANs two cardinal principles, the other being non-interference. In effect, that means that the bloc cannot take any affirmative action against any of its members in times of crises or intervene in a conflict between member states. Since its founding in 1967, ASEAN has experienced numerous such instancesIndonesias brutal invasion of East Timor in 1975, continuous border disputes between Thailand and Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam, and Malaysia and the Philippines, cross-border insurgency involving Thailand and Malaysia, and even a series of border clashes between Thailand and Cambodia from 2008-11, just to mention a few. The bloc did and has done nothing to solve any of those problems and conflicts.

Not surprisingly, therefore, Min Aung Hlaing felt he could ignore the consensus and continue his bloody campaign against the resistance to his junta, the so-called State Administration Council (SAC). Meanwhile, anti-coup demonstrators burned the ASEAN flag in the streets of Yangon and Mandalay, accusing the bloc of lacking credibility and giving legitimacy to military rule. Emissaries sent by ASEAN to Myanmar were not allowed to meet Daw Aung San Suu Kyi, the imprisoned de facto head of the government that was ousted in the February 2021 coup, nor were envoys from the United Nations and members of her own legal team.

But then, suddenly and unexpectedly, Thai Foreign Minister Don Pramudwinai met Daw Aung San Suu Kyi in an annex to the prison in Naypyitaw on June 11. The meeting supposedly lasted for over an hour, according to what he said afterwards. Don also met Min Aung Hlaing, and, on the sidelines of a subsequent foreign ministerial meeting in Jakarta, briefed representatives of other ASEAN member states of his one-day visit to Naypyitaw. Don also told reporters that Daw Aung San Suu Kyi encourages dialog without any preconditions, but did not go into details.

How and by whom Dons trip had been arranged is not clear. He claimed only vaguely that all sides had agreed to it, as if he had been in touch with Daw Aung San Suu Kyi before he went to Naypyitaw. An indication of what could have happened behind the scenes came when Deng Xijun, Chinas special envoy for Myanmar affairs, visited Myanmar at the end of July. Although it has not been officially confirmed, it is believed that Deng also met Daw Aung San Suu Kyi who by then had been transferred from her prison cell to a more comfortable state-owned venue in the capital. At the same time, the junta announced a partial pardon for Daw Aung San Suu Kyi, which some outside observers hailed as a step forward and even, as Don did, calling it a breakthrough. But it was lost on many that the pardon was, at most, symbolic. Daw Aung San Suu Kyi, who had been sentenced to a total of 33 years in prison, was granted clemency for five of the 19 offenses for which she was tried, and only for the minor ones. That means that the 78-year-old pro-democracy leader still has 27 years to serve.

The meetings in Naypyitaw prompted Malaysia as well as the Philippines to say that there should be room for fellow ASEAN states and individuals to pursue their own approaches for dealing with the Myanmar crisis. In other words, ASEAN as a bloc has become redundant. Indonesian President Joko Widodo said on Aug. 8 that the bloc, including Myanmar, must continue to work together to solve the crisis: ASEAN, as a big ship, must move forward. This big ship must continue to sail. This big ship cannot sink because this is our responsibility to hundreds of millions of people inside. But the bloc has already sunk. According to inside sources, it was China that laid the groundwork for Dons meetings in Naypyitaw, and Dengs visit about a month later was a follow-up to confirm Beijings position as the main player on the Myanmar chessboard. With the West now paying little or no attention to Myanmar, China is indeed even becoming the only game in town.

That does not bode well for Myanmar, and it was anyway rather foolish of someamong them former Australian prime minister and now ambassador to the United States, Kevin Ruddto expect ASEAN to be a promoter of democracy. In a BBC interview two weeks after the coup, Rudd, then with the Asia Society, said the way forward should be a dialog with the coup makers under guidance of ASEAN. The European Union (EU), which has imposed sanctions on the coup makers, said in a statement on April 30, 2021 that it stands ready to support ASEAN, its Chair, its Secretary General and the Special Envoy in facilitating a constructive dialogue with all key stakeholders with a view to bringing Myanmar/Burma back to its democratic path.

It is too often forgotten that ASEAN is a gathering of mostly undemocratic regimes. Vietnam and Laos are communist party-ruled dictatorships and Cambodia is governed by an autocratic regime that has shown no interest in adhering to democratic principles. The ruling Cambodian Peoples Party won a landslide victory in elections in July, which the US State Department, regional pro-democracy parliamentarians and the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights among others described as neither free nor fair. Brunei is an absolute monarchy. Malaysia has wavered between oppression of dissidents and periods of more openness, Singapore is not known for respect of dissident views, and, in Thailand, the military has staged several coups against democratically elected governments. An election was held in May, but the unelected, military-appointed upper house, or Senate, made sure that the largest, pro-democracy party was not able to form a government.

The Philippines has democratic institutions but is ridden by corruption and its former president, Rodrigo Duterte, is accused by the chief prosecutor of The Hague-based International Criminal Court of crimes against humanity during a deadly drugs crackdown. Several thousand suspected drug users and dealers were killed in extrajudicial executions after he assumed the presidency in 2016, many of them urban poor and youths who were believed to be innocent. And then, of course, there is Myanmar. Of ASEANs 10 members, only the current chair Indonesia could be regarded as a stable, reasonably democratic country. Consequently, Indonesia has been called upon by international bodies, including the United Nations, to show leadership in resolving the crisis in Myanmar. But progress has been non-existent because of the rules that stipulate what ASEAN can and cannot do.

Meanwhile in August, East Timor Prime Minister Xanana Gusmao stated that his country would reconsider its goal of applying to become the 11th member of ASEAN if the bloc is unable to find a resolution to the conflict in Myanmar. Referring to his country by its Portuguese-language name, he added that, as a country that had adopted democracy, Timor Leste could not accept military junta regimes anywhere and could not ignore human rights violations in Myanmar. A month before that, East Timor President Jose Ramos-Horta had met Daw Zin Mar Aung, the foreign minister of Myanmars shadow civilian National Unity Government in the capital Dili and asked world leaders why they were not helping Myanmar the way they are helping Ukraine.

The chairmanship of ASEAN rotates annually based on the alphabetical order of the English names of member states, which means that it will be Laos turn in 2024. Laos is hardly known for a proactive approach to foreign policyand it is heavily dependent on China, which has invested in infrastructure projects such as a high-speed railroad connecting the two countries, hydropower dams and special economic zones (SEZ). Laos has, to some extent, managed to balance Chinas influence with economic and diplomatic ties with Vietnam and Thailand. But China would certainly have much more leverage over Lao foreign policy than it does over current chair Indonesia.

Myanmars fiercely nationalistic military tried for years to lessen its dependence on China, first by entering into defense relations with Russia and even North Korea and, after the 2010 election, by pursuing a policy aimed at establishing an entirely new relationship with the West that entailed opening up the country and allowing unprecedented political freedoms. All that changed after Min Aung Hlaings 2021 attempt at seizing power. Relations with Russia are closer than ever and the junta has reportedly re-established some degree of cooperation with North Korea. But, in the end and whether the generals want it or not, Min Aung Hlaings junta has had to go back to China and beg for support in order to survive.

But that also comes at a heavy price. The Irrawaddy reported on Aug. 22 that China has been pouring billions into Myanmar to prop up the junta, accounting for 23.5 percent of total foreign investment. But it is worth noting that nearly all of it goes to hydroelectric power developmentof which China will be the main beneficiary, in terms of the electricity generatedand to the construction of railroads and other infrastructure projects that will tie Myanmar even closer to China. That means money in the pockets of the military and very little that would improve living conditions of ordinary Myanmar citizens. With ASEAN out of the picture and the entire future of the bloc in jeopardy because of its inability to handle the Myanmar crisis, China is securing its place as the dominant power not only in Myanmar but in Southeast Asia as a whole. When the West wakes up to that fact, possibly after the war in Ukraine is over, it may be too late. And it will be more difficult than ever to fulfill the dream of a democratic, federal Myanmar.
August 28, 2023



An Idaho State University undergrad has been selected to serve as a representative to one of the largest professional organizations for geologists.

Recently, Tiago Heebner, a junior majoring in geology, was chosen to serve on the management board of the Geological Society of America Rocky Mountain Section as the Undergraduate Student Representative. In the role, hell provide a student perspective to the group, travel to GSA conferences around the nation, and meet with leaders outside the geology field to discuss the intersection of their work and geosciences. Formed in 1948, the Geological Society of America Rocky Mountain Section consists of more than 4,000 members in academia, government, and industry from Idaho, Colorado, Montana, New Mexico, North Dakota, South Dakota, Utah, Wyoming, and northern Arizona as well as the Canadian provinces of Alberta and Saskatchewan and the state of Chihuahua in Mexico. Heebner was nominated for the post by Dave Pearson, professor of geosciences and chair of GSAs Rocky Mountain Section, and the management board voted to confirm his nomination.

Im excited to provide my input to the group, contribute to scientific discussions, and network with members of the geosciences community from around the world, said Heebner. Its an honor to have been selected, and it reassures me that I am, in fact, doing well at what I love.

Congratulations to Tiago on his new role with the Geological Society of America Rocky Mountain Section, said Pearson. I am happy he welcomed the opportunity to expand his service beyond ISU. Tiago will be able to provide ideas and feedback about how the Section can better serve students and beyond.

Heebner is no stranger to lending a hand at Idaho State. He currently serves as the Vice President of the ISU GeoClub. Previously, he was a member of the Department of Geosciences Student Advisory Board, served as a teachers assistant for Assistant Professor Carrie Bottenbergs Dynamic Earth class, assisted Associate Professor Shannon Kobs Nawotniak with her Science and Engineering Exploration Camp session with local youth, and worked as a Career Path Intern in the departments mineral separation room.

Ever since I was a kid, I was always fascinated by rocks and minerals and how diverse they are, Heebner said. I would also obsessively check out books from the library about things like volcanoes, caves, and landslides. I have an insatiable desire to understand how the world - and other planetary bodies - work. I encourage anyone who is even the slightest bit interested in the Earth and its processes to take a couple of geosciences classes and discover the same joys that I get from learning about this beautiful planet that we all live on.

For more information on ISUs Department of Geosciences, visit isu.edu/geosciences.

Prospective students can schedule a campus tour at isu.edu/visit.
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Dear compatriots, I simply ask, urge, and even demand not to pay attention to the "mass evacuation of the people of Artsakh" agenda, which was thrown into the information field long ago by Azerbaijani and some other foreign forces, and not to disseminate such materials and calls. Artak Beglaryan, advisor to the Artsakh Republic State Minister wrote this on Facebook.

August 29, 2023, 16:35 Solutions can always be found to continue the struggle to live freely and with dignity in one's own Motherland. Artak Beglaryan

STEPANAKERT, AUGUST 29, ARTSAKHPRESS: He added as follows:

It is not a solution in any way in this situation, it is an escape from the Motherland and national, civil and human responsibility to past, present, and future generations. The main wish of the genocidal authorities of Azerbaijan is precisely this: to push us [the people of Artsakh] to mass emigration at the lowest possible price, apparently placing the accountability for the genocide on us.

The only agenda of the people of Artsakh should be to live and fight in Artsakh, as our ancestors did in different eras. And each and every person and family has the right to make decisions about his own fate; whoever goes is welcome to go, but should not in any way encourage the mass demeanor of emigration.

No matter how severe the deprivations and difficulties are, it is all the same; solutions can always be found to continue the struggle to live freely and with dignity in one's own Motherland.

P.S. I had avoided reflecting on this topic for a long time, but in the context of the information trends of the last days, I have to speak publicly about the inadmissibility of its circulation.
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.
Josh Seiter

Josh Seiter/ Instagram Josh Seiter

Former Bachelorette contestant Josh Seiter is "alive and well" after a social media hoax falsely announced his death.

A day after a statement posted to his verified Instagram account said he had died, Seiter, 36, resurfaced Tuesday with a video claiming that his account had been compromised. "As you can see I am alive and well," he said. "My account was hacked. For the last 24 hours I had been trying desperately to get into it." (EW has reached out to Meta, Instagram's parent company, for comment.)

Adding that "somebody was playing a cruel joke and mocking my mental illness and the struggles I've gone through with depression and suicide attempts," Seiter apologized to his followers for the confusion.

On Monday, a statement posted to Seiter's Instagram page said he had died unexpectedly. Numerous outlets, including EW, erroneously reported Seiter's death, citing the Instagram statement.

The statement, which was unsigned and has since been deleted, alluded to Seiter's history of mental health struggles, about which he has been open.

In a 2021 Instagram post, he identified himself as a suicide attempt survivor. Last week, he posted a selfie with the caption, "Surviving depression and anxiety one day at a time with a smile."

Seiter is known for competing on Kaitlyn Bristowe's season of The Bachelorette, which aired in 2015. Described as a law student and exotic dancer from Chicago, he was eliminated in week 1 of the dating show.

Earlier this year, Seiter came out as bisexual. He had previously identified as pansexual. Prior to that his dating seemed to revolve around the reality television space, with him being linked to women from 90 Day Fiance and Love After Lockup. After coming out as bisexual, he announced plans to star in a series of adult films in an Instagram post that has since been deleted.

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Seiter has also been romantically linked to another reality contestant, RuPaul's Drag Race's Monica Beverly Hillz, the show's first queen to come out as trans during the main competition back on season 5. She recently competed on RuPaul's Drag Race All Stars 8.

The pair previously shared social media posts together, but those have since been deleted. On Monday, Monica posted a photo of her and Seiter with the caption "RIP my honey." The post was deleted Tuesday.

[This article has been updated to reflect that Seiter is alive after being falsely reported dead.]

If you or someone you know need mental health help, text "STRENGTH" to the Crisis Text Line at 741-741 to be connected to a certified crisis counselor.

Related content:
China proposes 8 tasks to ensure food security

Xinhua) 08:15, August 29, 2023

This aerial photo taken on July 15, 2023 shows farmers harvesting wheat in Hutubi County, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. (Xinhua/Ding Lei)

BEIJING, Aug. 28 (Xinhua) -- China has proposed eight tasks to ensure national food security, including strengthening the country's food security system and capacity-building, increasing support for agricultural protection, and accelerating the construction of a modern food industry and circulation system, according to a recent report from the State Council.

The report on work to ensure national food security was submitted to the fifth session of the Standing Committee of the 14th National People's Congress, China's top legislature, for deliberation on Monday.

The report said that efforts would be made to implement a strategy of sustainable farmland use and the innovative application of agricultural technology to increase farmland productivity.

In recent years, China's food production has been expanding steadily, with adequate market supply and generally stable operations. The country's ability to prevent and defuse major risks and challenges has been improving, and its level of food security has been raised significantly, according to the report.

China's annual grain output has topped 650 billion kg for eight consecutive years. Last year, the country's total grain output was 686.55 billion kg, and its per capita food supply was 486.1 kg, which was well above the internationally recognized food security line of 400 kg, according to the report.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
Passengers have had little choice but to sleep on suitcases in Heathrow's Terminal 5 - Paul Grover for The Telegraph

As airports claimed it was back to normal following the IT meltdown that left thousands stranded, it was little comfort to the families who slept on terminal floors overnight.

Hundreds of flights were cancelled again on Tuesday as airlines struggled to repatriate passengers whose bank holiday getaways ended in delays after National Air Traffic Services (Nats) systems went down.

Across Europe, thousands of holidaymakers were desperately trying to find a way home as they feared missing dental appointments, the first week of school or simply a good nights sleep.

Among those affected was Jamie Sedman, 33, from York, who was stuck at Palma Airport and told how he and his partner constructed makeshift beds from the Jet2 stands and a crate for their three children aged 15, nine and six.

I will never fly Jet2 again, he said. Its just been appalling. Ive spent over three thousand on this holiday and we had to sleep on the airport floor. We want something back for this.

Jet2 didnt offer us anything. We had to force them to give us one blanket for the five of us, and they didnt want to give us that because they said other people hadnt given the blankets back. They should have put us in a hotel.

Mr Sedman, a lorry driver, said his flight to Leeds Bradford Airport was due to depart four different times but he was still waiting to be checked-in. He said his airline had given him a 10 (8.60) voucher to feed his family during the delay.

Jamie Sedman and his children sleep on makeshift beds made from Jet2 banners and a crate - SOLARPIX.COM

Mandy Calvert, 57, and her friend Shauna Smith, 32, also had to endure a night in the Mallorca airport without any sleep and said they had been treated with no dignity.

Weve had no sleep at all and just sat on our wet towels on the floor, she added. Other people were sleeping on the floor and seats. I feel so sorry for people with little kids.

Jet2 staff were just stepping over people sleeping on the floor. Theyve shown no compassion and just hid in their office.

Easyjet customers Uel and Rachel ONeill have had to spend thousands on a new flight for this Sunday to get to Belfast with their children Tilly, seven, Sam, eight, and James, five.

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Mr ONeill, 48, said: Ive had to spend another 4,000 on a new flight to get back and its also going to cost me for the hotel for another five nights. The kids are all going to miss their first week back at school.

Jet2 said it was working tirelessly to provide hotel accommodation and to support customers.

Rory Boland, the editor of Which? Travel said there was evidence of airlines failing to properly communicate with their passengers or fulfil their legal obligations and a lack of care from carriers.

Back in the UK, there was similar frustration from travellers traipsing through arrivals who waited almost a day to get home.

Esther Young, 51, and her husband Steve from North Yorkshire had travelled to Heathrow Terminal 5 from Venice after an overnight stay at the airport in Italy and 21 hours of delays.

We got into duty free and our flight was cancelled, Mrs Young said. Nobody knew what to do so people chased around a bit, eventually we found our luggage and then we stayed in the airport overnight. The girls slept on the luggage, didnt really sleep very much.

She had sympathy for British Airways airline staff but said there was no communication from carriers centrally. There was nobody there, the staff in Venice hadnt got a clue, because they dont work for BA, she said.

People wait for news amid delays and cancellations at Heathrow - Paul Grover for The Telegraph

In Birmingham, Nick and Gemma Furlong had just arrived home after being forced to wait seven hours in Gran Canaria Airport with their one-year-old daughter.

The most frustrating part was not knowing how long it would be and all the flights before ours that were waiting a while and were cancelled, said Mr Furlong. We were there during the night with no food or drink or anything to keep us occupied or refreshed.

Rafal Batko and his family, from Sheffield, spent the night at Leeds Bradford Airport after their flight to Krakow for his mother and father-in-laws wedding anniversary party was cancelled.

Elsewhere in the terminal, Katrina Harrison and her family spent the night on the floor after their flight to Antalya was cancelled on Monday afternoon.

We werent given a blanket, weve been absolutely freezing, Ms Harrison, from Stockton-on-Tees, said. We havent slept, we tried to sleep on the floor but couldnt. Luckily the children could sleep in the pram.

 The holiday was supposed to be a family celebration of a few things. Weve spent 12,000 on it, and weve been treated like muck.

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Activists say logging is having a devastating impact on greater glider numbers.

New images have revealed the devastation activists say has been wreaked by logging on an important forest in southern NSW as the fight to save one of Australia's most threatened species heats up.

Over the past 20 years, the population of greater gliders  a critically endangered marsupial  has fallen by a whopping 80 per cent, decimated by land clearing, climate change and widespread bushfires.

One of the species last strongholds in southern NSW sits in Tallaganda State Forest, a sprawling woodland located beside Tallaganda National Park and wedged between Canberra and Batemans Bay.

The World Wildlife Fund for Nature-Australia has warned that the crucial habitat is now under threat after bulldozers were brought in by Forestry Corporation of NSW (FCNSW) amid logging operations in the area.

One of the greater gliders last strongholds in southern NSW sits in Tallaganda State Forest. Picture: Andrew Kaineder / WWF-Australia

The sprawling woodland is located beside Tallaganda National Park. Picture: Andrew Kaineder / WWF-Australia

This habitat is ground zero in the race to save this critically threatened species, WWF-Australia scientist Kita Ashman said.

We have written to NSW Environment Minister Penny Sharpe asking her to urgently intervene to stop the logging, and we are calling on the federal government to scrap exemptions for Regional Forestry Agreements that enable the continued destruction.

Last year, the status of the greater glider  the largest of the glider species  was uplisted by federal Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek.

The species is now listed as critically endangered by the federal government, while the NSW government still lists it as only being endangered.

The glider is believed to reside in a stretch of territory spanning eastern Queensland, NSW, and Victoria that was devastated by bushfires.

On the NSW south coast, the 2019-20 Black Summer bushfires destroyed habitat in and around the Batemans Bay and Moruya areas.

In the aftermath of the fires, Dr Ashman said WWF-A had worked with experts to identify Tallaganda as a priority location for glider recovery.

She said researchers invested more than $300,000 into two research projects and had spent as long as two months researching the area.

Story continues

Over the past 20 years, the population of greater gliders has fallen by a whopping 80 per cent. Picture: Vivianna Miritis / WWF-Australia

Dr Kita Ashman said the logging was upsetting. Picture: Kailas Wild / WWF-Australia

During a two-night stay in the woodland area, researchers reported spotting 96 greater gliders.

It was incredible. Its the only place Ive ever seen where greater gliders were the dominant species, Dr Ashman said.

In most other places where greater gliders were once abundant they are disappearing.

To know this habitat is being logged is extremely upsetting.

Under agreements first struck two decades ago, state forestry companies across the country are allowed to circumvent federal rules and log native forests for timber and woodchips.

In NSW, the practice has come under renewed scrutiny by campaigners and local groups following bushfires and the Victorian government's decision to expedite an end to the practice.

The Bob Brown Foundation, founded by the former Greens leader, led a recent campaign targeting Labor leaders to commit to banning native forest logging across the country.

A map shows where logging is occurring in greater glider habitat. Picture: WWF-Australia

Local activist Takessa Frank last year led a campaign garnering more than 20,000 signatures that called on the NSW government to itself commit to ending native forest logging.

Activists say the practice destroys crucial habitat for endangered species and is not financially sustainable, while proponents say logging provides much-needed jobs and wood supply.

In a statement about the Bob Brown Foundations campaign, FCNSW said state forests produced sawlogs for structural timber like flooring, power poles and firewood for affordable home heating.

The full range of forest and wood products has value to communities, the spokesperson said.

Logging in Tallaganda State Forest, NSW. Picture: Andrew Kaineder / WWF-Australia

Timber is the most renewable building product available and (...) plays a large, sustained role in mitigating climate change.



Timber harvesting is heavily regulated to balance the communitys need for timber with protecting important environmental features.

For scientists, those objectives run up against their mission to protect greater gliders, including in NSW state forests.

Specially designed nest boxes were installed by WWF-A in burnt forest in Tallaganda National Park in collaboration with ANU.

The boxes are designed to see if hi-tech homes could help increase greater glider numbers.

In the neighbouring state forest, GPS collars were attached to gliders in burnt and unburnt forest in partnership with The University of Sydney.

WWF-Australia partnered with The University of Sydney to deploy GPS collars on greater gliders. Picture: WWF-Australia / Oliver Risi

The collars were to be used by researchers todiscover how fire-damaged habitat alters greater glider behaviour.

The GPS collars have now been removed, but we dont know if any of those greater gliders, who we watched and came to know, have been killed, Dr Ashman said.

We also dont know if any of the greater glider families that moved into nest boxes have been harmed. These animals could easily be moving between the national park and the logging area.

Aside from directly impacting the local population of greater gliders, the logging threatens the viability of the research that has been under way to protect the species.
Beijing (Gasgoo)- On August 24, AVATR, the premium new energy vehicle brand jointly developed by Changan Automobile, Huawei, and CATL, saw the AVATR 11 HarmonyOS Edition officially hit the market.

Photo credit: AVATR

The lineup includes four trims with pre-sale prices set between 300,000 yuan and 390,000 yuan, all equipped with the integrated HI Huawei full-stack intelligent automotive solution.

The AVATR 11 HarmonyOS Edition boasts a deeply customized HarmonyOS cabin, offering an entirely rejuvenated human-machine interaction experience. Collaborating with Huawei, the AVATR 11 undertook 11 tailored exclusive features with up to 367 functions optimized.

Photo credit: AVATR

Across the entire AVATR 11 HarmonyOS Edition series, the advanced Huawei ADS 2.0 intelligent driving system is integrated. Through OTA (Over-the-Air) updates, multiple industry-first features will be unlocked, encompassing highway, urban, and parking scenarios. The ADS 2.0 marks a substantial leap, especially in the NCA (Navigation Cruise Assist) mode, refining lane change logic and obstacle avoidance capabilities. Moreover, the ADS 2.0 enables advanced abilities such as standard intersection straight-through and lever-switched turns in urban areas. The parking suite encompasses APA (Intelligent Parking Assist), RPA (Remote Parking Assist), and AVP (Valet Parking Assist), all capable of parking in ultra-narrow spaces as narrow as 0.4 meters and even mechanical spots.

The AVATR 11 HarmonyOS Edition is also equipped with GAEB (General Automatic Emergency Braking) capability. Leveraging Huawei's innovative GOD (General Obstacle Detection) network and fusion sensing ability with LiDAR, GAEB can accurately recognize unconventional obstacles like mounds, fallen trees, and boulders that traditional AEB systems may miss, swiftly initiating automatic emergency braking to enhance safety.

Benefiting from enhanced whole-vehicle energy optimization algorithms, the AVATR 11 HarmonyOS Edition models receive a 20-30 km boost in range, achieving a remarkable maximum range of 730 km. Coupled with 750V high-voltage supercharging technology, user range concerns are further alleviated.
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Chicago (Special to Informed Comment; Feature)  Russia confirmed Tuesday that Yevgeny Prigozhin, ex-convict oligarch and leader of Russias Wagner mercenaries, died in a plane crash last week. Prigozhin had, in fact, been a dead man walking ever since he masterminded an aborted mutiny against Russias military leadership on June 23 of this year. His rebellion was an affront not only to Russian generals but to Putin himself, who called the uprising treason, a subversion from within, and a stab in the back. Exactly two months after Prigozhins rebellion, an explosion blew him and his private jet out of the sky.

The plane stopped in midair and plummeted down. Video showed the jet spiraling towards the ground, with one wing missing and smoke pouring from the fuselage shortly before erupting into a fireball. The crash left the charred and mangled remnants of 10 people found in the debris. The 62-year-old Prigozhin was identified by a missing part of his finger, an injury sustained while he served time in a penal colony. The identification was made certain via DNA testing.

Accompanying Prigozhin on the doomed flight were Wagners top commander Dmitry Utkin  the neo-Nazi sympathizer, who named the group Wagner after Hitlers favorite composer. Besides crew members, the dead included Wagner logistics and security head Valery Chekalov and four key lieutenants. Currently, it is not known why these high-ranking Wagner leaders, normally exceedingly careful about their security, were all on the same flight from Moscow to St. Petersburg, where Wagner is headquartered.

The death of Wagners central leadership decapitates the group and disrupts Wagners ability to reverse the effects of the Kremlins campaign to subsume the mercenary organization into Russias regular army. Prigozhins violent demise also raises questions, for Putin, about securing the valuable alliances Wagner secured in the Mideast and Africa as well as control of Prigozhins global financial empire.

Despite these challenges, it was surprising that Putin tolerated Prigozhin so long after he apparently painted a target on his own back by launching a rebellion with the stated aim of knocking out Moscows military leadership. Prigozhin called them mentally ill scumbags, who had led Russia to disaster in Ukraine. Wagners leader even questioned the basis of the war. The organizations gunners brought down Russian helicopters and a military surveillance plane, reportedly killing 13. As the world watched, Prigozhin posed the most dramatic challenge to Putins rule in decades.

Within hours the revolt was defused: the Kremlin announced an end to the mutiny, whereby Wagner soldiers  many were criminals who fought on Russias behalf in Ukraine, the Mideast, and Africa  would escape punitive measures and Prigozhin would leave for Belarus without facing prosecution, his security guaranteed. Most, including President Biden, thought this was laughable, saying, If I were he, I would be careful what I ate. Prigozhin signed his own death warrant if he believed in the security guarantee or Putins equally absurd word of honor.

But, in the aftermath of the aborted insurrection, Prigozhin appeared unfazed. Putin met with him in Moscow. He soon appeared in St. Petersburg, at a forum for African leaders. Two weeks ago from somewhere in Africa, a video showed Prigozhin dressed in camouflage, holding an assault rifle, cheering the coup in Niger, and offering Wagners help.

Prigozhin was scrambling to salvage his business empire from Kremlin control in the days before his death, said a Business Insider story. Prigozhin found himself in a race with the Kremlin, which was at the same time trying to win over Wagner clients and have them deal directly with Russian officials instead of him.

Prigozhins continued posturing haunted Putin, who promoted himself as the omnipotent tsar. Putin destroyed a whole propaganda narrative he himself had constructed, an anonymous Russian official said. It looked extremely humiliating. First, he got himself into a war he couldnt win, and, when he inevitably encountered difficulties, he tried to find a cheap solution by allowing for the creation of an army of criminals  and then that army ended up turning against him. Prigozhin cracked Putins shaky mystique.

Many Russians wondered how Prigozhin had been able to get away with such a brazen affront to Putin without consequence. Kremlin critic Bill Browder, a businessman with years of experience in Russia, said Putin never forgives and never forgets. He looked like a humiliated weakling with Prigozhin running around without a care in the world after the mutiny. The dramatic assassination will cement Putins authority.

Article continues after bonus IC video

NBC News: Blood and Gold: Wagners Rise in Central Africa

Putin broke his silence about the plane crash last Thursday, some 24 hours after it happened. He described Mr. Prigozhin as a talented man with a complicated fate. Putin revealed that his personal ties with Prigozhin dated back to the early 1990s, and he acknowledged for the first time that he had personally asked Mr. Prigozhin to carry out tasks on his behalf. He made some serious mistakes in life, but he also achieved necessary results.

Unlike the long list of people who have been shot, hanged, poisoned, and pushed out of windows because they criticized and undermined Putin, Prigozhin  until his mutiny  supported Putin, even helped create him. His arc of success was legendary: a crude and ambitious hustler like Putin, Prigozhin rose from convict to wiener salesman to warlord.

His ascension included a string of restaurants and a lucrative catering business that supplied food to Russian schools [until a 2019 dysentery scandal] as well as billion dollar, no-bid contracts to feed the Russian army and the Kremlin, earning him the nickname Putins chef. Prigozhin later joked that Putins butcher would be more appropriate.

Wagner was born when the Russian state needed a deniable shadow force of mercenaries. On behalf of Putins agenda, Prigozhin built Wagner shortly after Russia seized Crimea from Ukraine in 2014. A year later, Wagner was secretly part of Russias military surge into Syria. Prigozhins paramilitary protected Syrias oil fields and, as compensation, received a slice of Syrias petrodollars.

As long as Putin controlled Prigozhin, Wagner was allowed to grow, reaching an estimated 50,000 fighters at its peak. Prigozhins personal fortune swelled too, elevating him to billionaire status: Wagners corporate soldiers plundered diamonds, gold, oil, and gas from countries in which they operated. Killing with impunity, Wagner fighters were accused of numerous war crimes. In one incident, Wagner men were captured on video beheading, dismembering, and incinerating a Syrian man.

Prigozhin also created the Internet Research Agency that became the notorious hub for bogus social media accounts, fake news, propaganda, and efforts to disrupt elections all over the world, including helping the con-man insurrectionist become U.S. president. Indicted in the Mueller investigation, Prigozhin basked in the accusations. We have interfered, we are interfering and we will continue to interfere, he said in 2022. The FBI put Prigozhin on its most-wanted list to Prigozhins amusement.

In Ukraine, Wagner achieved the only Russian victory so far this year. Aiding a flailing Russian war operation starved for personnel, Prigozhin recruited convicts, who fought the long, horrible battle of Bakhmut. 20,000 poorly trained Russian soldiers died in that months-long siege, thanks to military tactics so wasteful of human life  sending suicidal wave after wave against Ukrainian defenses  that they were described as the meat grinder.

Becoming a global media figure, the shaven-headed Prigozhin  speaking in rough, often obscene language  projected a savage, even deranged image. Prigozhin may have believed his own hype when he decided to launch his rebellion. He tacitly endorsed a video showing the murder, with a sledgehammer, of a Wagner defector. A dogs death for a dog, Prigozhin said in a statement at the time. Known as zeroing out, the Wagner punishment for desertion or retreat is death.

Accusations of war crimes follow Wagner wherever its fighters go. In mid-April 2023, two alleged former prisoners and Wagner fighters detailed atrocities committed against civilians and combatants in Bakhmut. These allegations included terrorism, political assassinations, and the use of rape as a weapon of war as well as the execution of 70 Wagner soldiers for disobeying orders.

In early 2023, the United Nations called for investigations into possible war crimes by government forces and Wagner Group units in Mali. In designating Wagner a transnational criminal organization in January, the Treasury Department imposed sanctions on Wagner-related businesses and accused Wagner personnel of engaging in an ongoing pattern of serious criminal activity, including mass executions, rape, child abductions, and physical abuse in the Central African Republic, Sudan, and Mali.

Ignoring such accusations as well as his own war crimes, Putin viewed Prigozhin as a useful opportunist with a ruthless streak and sent his guns-for-hire private military company across the Middle East and Africa to bolster Russian interests often in vicious fashion. Wagner is vital to understanding the Kremlins emerging global strategy.

Blatant imperialists and Putins shadowy enforcers, Wagner backed shaky foreign governments in Syria, Libya, the Sudan, Mali, and the Central African Republic among others and nailed down mineral rights and other concessions, enriching Prigozhin in side deals. Corporate soldiers of corruption, Wagner is nothing more than an organized crime group sanctioned by the Russian government, wrote The Organized Crime and Corruption Reporting Project (OCCRP).

Wagner has perfected a blueprint for state capture in the Central African Republic (CAR), according to a report in The Sentry. Titled Architects of Terror, the paper details Wagner efforts to amass military power, secure access to precious minerals  gold and diamonds  and subdue the population with terror. As Richard Engel says in his NBC documentary Blood and Gold, They are stealing money from the poorest people on earth. Recent reports even question the agency of the CAR government, calling it a zombie host to Russian interests. Wagners role in Libya and Sudan has been equally sinister.

An elaborate Wagner scheme to plunder Sudans riches was reported by CNN: Russia has colluded with Sudans beleaguered military leadership, enabling billions of dollars in gold to bypass the Sudanese state and to deprive the poverty-stricken country of hundreds of millions in state revenue. Wagner actively supported Sudans 2021 military coup which overthrew a transitional civilian government, dealing a devastating blow to the Sudanese pro-democracy movement. Despite another coup that removed Wagner ally and Sudan president Omar al-Bashir, companies linked to Prigozhin maintain de-facto control of gold-mining interests there.

In Sudans neighbor Libya, Wagner has fought in the civil war, where it allied with the Libyan National Army (LNA), led by Marshall Khalifa Haftar, who has been fighting against the UN-backed Government of National Accord (GNA). The Wagner Group has provided security, training, artillery, snipers, and landmines to the LNA, as well as participating in combat operations. Its activates are closely tied to oil and gas resources affiliated with Prigozhin companies.

The Wagner boss established one of the worlds most mysterious and complicated corporate organizations across Africa, which included enterprises in media, logistics, mining, cinema, and catering in addition to his mercenary activities, according to an investigation by the Dossier Center. It remains unclear what is going to happen to the sprawling network now that its leader is dead.

After Prigozhins mutiny, the Kremlin moved to defuse his power and curtail his business empire. His contract for feeding the Russian army was canceled. Putin dissolved the Internet Research Agency, but did not shut down Wagner. Russian officials have indicated to Syria, Libya, and Sudan that they want Russian involvement to continue, suggesting that Wagner fighters could come under the Defense Ministry. The assassination of Wagners top leadership was likely the final step to eliminate Wagner as an independent organization, according to The Institute for the Study of War.

The Kremlin was pushing to dismantle Wagners presence in the Middle East and Africa, by forming new private military companies (PMCs) from existing Wagner personnel. Putin may have decided that Wagner personnel had reached a point where they were sufficiently more interested in payments and deployments with these new PMCs than their continued loyalty to Prigozhin and that he could safely kill Prigozhin without Wagner recriminations.

Prigozhin never turned his nascent popularity into a coherent movement. Public mourning for him is subdued rather than a national outpouring of grief. The remaining Wagner commanders will grasp the lesson of Prigozhins murder  he shouldnt have launched the rebellion or he shouldnt have halted it. In any case, Wagner relinquished much of its vast arsenal of heavy weaponry to the defense ministry, and its fighters are now scattered across Belarus, Russia, the Mideast and Africa. In short, an immediate revolt, in Prigozhins memory, is unlikely.

Putin needed time to secure Kremlin control of Wagners complicated empire so Prigozhin survived for two months before his elimination. In Africa, for instance, Russia sought to reassure leaders who relied on Wagner for security that the firm will continue to operate under Putins control. As the Kremlin sought to untangle itself from the once-loyal warlord, it has also become clear that Prigozhin was the glue holding together a splintered kingdom and that it could all collapse.

Wagners  and Moscows  clout in Africa may eclipse because of the rising influence of China and other core members of the now-expanding BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa) bloc, said Kyiv-based analyst Aleksey Kushch. Russias sway in Africa will weaken irrespective of personalities at the helm of Wagner.

Beyond wanting to control his far-flung financial realm, Putins spectacular public liquidation of Prigozhin is an attempt to reassert his dominance in retaliation for the humiliation that the Wagner Groups armed rebellion caused him. He needed to exact ostentatious revenge against Prigozhin not only to prove that he is not a weak leader, but also to instill fear in Russian elite, and send a message to Russian oligarchs: No measure of effectiveness and accomplishment can shield an individual from repercussions when they breach Putins loyalty.

Though Putin may have frightened the elite into obedience, they all know, if they didnt already, that his claims of a pardon or forgiveness cant be trusted. Never before has someone so central to Russias ruling establishment been killed in a suspected state-sponsored assassination, said Mikhail Vinogradov, a Moscow political analyst. This is a rather harsh precedent.

The plane crash came on the same day that General Sergei Surovikin, known as General Armageddon,  a former top commander in Ukraine who was reportedly linked to Prigozhin  was dismissed from his post as commander of Russias air force. The Russian elite, whether in government, military, or business, cant help but notice that its neither profitable nor safe to challenge Putins official hierarchy. Still, eliminating top generals and blowing up a dependable mercenary leader are not the actions of a confident, efficient, stable autocracy amidst an ongoing war.

The outcome of the Ukraine war will be crucial to Putins continued status. Thanks to Surovikin, Russian defenses have surpassed expectations against Ukraines counter-offensive. If this unfortunate trend continues and Ukraines summer campaign fails to reclaim significant Russian-occupied land, Putins authority will likely endure. However, if Russian defenses falter, especially near Crimea, Putins legitimacy could weaken even more than from the challenge of Prigozhin.
VANCOUVER, BC, Aug. 29, 2023 /CNW/ - Macarthur Minerals Limited (TSXV: MMS) (ASX: MIO) (OTCQB: MMSDF) (the Company or Macarthur), is holding its 2023 Annual General Meeting today.

Attached is a copy of the Chairman's address.

On behalf of the Board of Directors, Mr Cameron McCall, Executive Chairman and CEO

Company profile

Macarthur is an iron ore development, and lithium exploration company that is focused on bringing to production its Western Australia iron ore projects. The Lake Giles Iron Project mineral resources include the Ularring hematite resource (approved for development) comprising Indicated resources of 54.5 million tonnes at 47.2% Fe and Inferred resources of 26 million tonnes at 45.4% Fe; and the Lake Giles magnetite resource of 53.9 million tonnes (Measured), 218.7 million tonnes (Indicated) and 997 million tonnes (Inferred). The Lake Giles Iron Project also contains Proven Ore Reserves of 51.9 Mt and Probable Ore Reserves of 184.7Mt. Macarthur also holds 24 square kilometre tenement area iron exploration interests in the Pilbara region of Western Australia. In addition, Macarthur has lithium brine Claims in the emerging Railroad Valley region in Nevada, USA. The Mineral Resource and Ore Reserve estimates presented herein have previously been released to the ASX on March 21, 2022, including supporting JORC reporting tables. The Company confirms that it is not aware of any new information or data that materially affects the information included in the relevant market announcements and, in the case of Mineral Resources and Mineral Reserves that all assumptions and technical parameters underpinning the estimates in the relevant market announcement continue to apply and have not materially changed.

Caution Regarding Forward Looking Statements

Certain of the statements made and information contained in this press release may constitute forward-looking information and forward-looking statements (collectively, "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of applicable securities laws. All statements herein, other than statements of historical fact, that address activities, events or developments that the Company believes, expects or anticipates will or may occur in the future, including but not limited to statements regarding expected completion of the Feasibility Study; conversion of Mineral Resources to Ore Reserves or the eventual mining of the Project, are forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements in this press release reflect the current expectations, assumptions or beliefs of the Company based upon information currently available to the Company. Although the Company believes the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements are not guarantees of future performance and no assurance can be given that these expectations will prove to be correct as actual results or developments may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in forward-looking statements include but are not limited to: unforeseen technology changes that results in a reduction in iron or magnetite demand or substitution by other metals or materials; the discovery of new large low cost deposits of iron magnetite; the general level of global economic activity; failure to complete the FS; inability to demonstrate economic viability of Mineral Resources; and failure to obtain mining approvals. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements due to the inherent uncertainty thereof. Such statements relate to future events and expectations and, as such, involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties. The forward-looking statements contained in this press release are made as of the date of this press release and except as may otherwise be required pursuant to applicable laws, the Company does not assume any obligation to update or revise these forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

CHAIRMAN'S ADDRESS

1. Welcome

Good morning Ladies and Gentlemen.

I have pleasure in welcoming you to the 2023 Annual General Meeting for Macarthur Minerals Limited.

My name is Cameron McCall, Executive Chairman and CEO of Macarthur, and I preside as the Chairperson of today's meeting in accordance with the constitution.

2. Format of Meeting

I will provide some comments on the company's progress. Following that, we will proceed with the formal agenda of the meeting.

3. Open of Meeting / Quorum

It is now 10.00AM and there being a quorum present, I formally declare the Meeting open.

4. Introductions

I'm joined this morning by:

Ryan Welker (Non-executive Director);

(Non-executive Director); Ian McCall (CFO); and

(CFO); and Mima Wirakara (Company Secretary).

Meeting apologies were received from Alan Spence Phillips and Andrew Suckling (Non-Executive Directors) who are unable to travel to attend in person.

Steve Stavrou, representing our auditors RSM Australia Pty Ltd, is also present. He is available to answer any relevant questions pertaining to audit matters that you may wish to ask later in the meeting, and I thank him for attending today.

We also welcome Jessie Yerma and her team from Computershare and would like to acknowledge and thank you, for your assistance with the conduct of today's meeting.

5.The Year in Review

On behalf of the Board and management of Macarthur Minerals, I am pleased to report positive progress in the final phase of the development of our Lake Giles Project, despite challenging equity market conditions for junior miners and a teetering global economy.

Today, I will focus on three outcomes that are crucial for realizing value for all shareholders:

(1) The Company is actively working with interested parties on the following possibilities:

Sale of the Lake Giles Project and/or seeking commercial development partners who understand the Lake Giles commercial potential and investment opportunity; and

Seeking a buyer for the Railroad Valley Nevada Project.

(2) We are also seeking an interested exploration joint venture partner for the nickel sulphide system across the Lake Giles tenements. I will provide a brief summary on the status of the Nickel prospect at Lake Giles.

(3) Furthermore, I am pleased to announce that Infinity Mining Limited, an associate of Macarthur Minerals Group has had a successful 12 months with the identification of Lithium and Rare Earth Elements at the Tambourah South Tenement in the East Pilbara region of Western Australia. Infinity Mining is currently conducting an active exploration and drilling program across these Pilbara tenements, which are highly prospective for Lithium, Rare Earth Elements, and key battery metals such as Nickel and Copper.

Lake Giles Magnetite Project 1, 2

In the first quarter of 2022, the Company achieved significant milestones for its high-grade magnetite Lake Giles Iron Project. A maiden Ore Reserve was delivered, and a Feasibility Study was completed, confirming the project's economic viability. The project is expected to produce 3 million tonnes per annum (dry basis) of high-grade magnetite concentrate over a 25-year mine-life. This flagship project has reached an advanced stage of development, with approximately $75 million invested in exploration, metallurgy, feasibility studies, mining lease grants, heritage agreements, and environmental studies. The completion of the Feasibility Study in 2022, after 14 years of project work, positions this project as a leading magnetite project in Western Australia.

Following the completion of the Feasibility Study, the Company has focused on three key areas:

(1) The mining component of the Feasibility Study was reviewed by SRK Australia, providing guidance to enhance project outcomes.

(2) A comprehensive review of the potential for a major nickel sulphide system across the Lake Giles tenements was conducted. The findings of this positive report, completed in 2023, have been released to the market, and the Company is actively seeking an interested exploration joint venture partner.

(3) The Company has been managing its significant investment in Infinity Mining Limited, a listed ASX explorer.

Nickel Potential at Lake Giles 3

The Lake Giles tenements are situated in the Yerilgee greenstone belt, located in the central part of the Southern Cross Province of the Yilgarn Archaean Craton. The Project's ultramafic rocks are believed to be of Kambalda komatiite type and share similarities with the Forrestania and Lake Johnston greenstone belts. The Lake Johnston nickel mineralized bodies, such as Maggie Hays, are hosted within a Kambalda-style ultramafic komatiite.

Key points regarding the nickel potential at Lake Giles:

A review of historical drilling assay data has identified 319 drill holes within Macarthur's tenure, showing highly anomalous nickel concentrations of 0.1% or greater. Among these, 150 drill holes recorded 0.2% or greater, indicating significant potential for nickel mineralization.

Historical drilling primarily focused on iron ore, with approximately 50% of the drilling yet to be analyzed for nickel and associated elements.

The geological unit interpreted to host the potential for nickel at Lake Giles is a komatiite ultramafic unit, similar to the Lake Johnston komatiite system that hosts the Maggie Hays nickel mine (ASX: POS).

Significant nickel intercepts from historical drilling and trench sampling highlight the potential for economic nickel mineralization at Lake Giles.

Seven advanced targets with high potential for nickel mineralization have been identified and remain untested.

Further analysis of the historical geological, geophysical, and geochemical dataset is expected to define additional highly prospective nickel targets and potentially lead to the discovery of nickel mineralization within the Lake Giles Project Area.

Macarthur completed 41 diamond drill holes in 2019 across the Moonshine and Moonshine North targets, intersecting several altered komatiites that are yet to be assayed.

Infinity Mining Investment 4

Macarthur is the largest shareholder in Infinity Mining Limited, resulting from the spin-out of the companies' Pilbara Assets in 2021. The Pilbara Assets consist of 14 Exploration Licences covering an area of approximately 781 km2 in the Pilbara region. These assets comprise a diverse portfolio of exploration tenements for lithium, gold, copper, and nickel. The projects within the Pilbara Assets include Tambourah, Hillside, Panorama, Noreena Downs, Coolyia, Cookes Creek, and Strelley Gorge.

The primary focus of Infinity Mining's lithium exploration is the South Tambourah project, which has shown promising results in the first 12 months of exploration, including:

Mapping and sampling of 41 surface units, which have returned anomalous lithium (Li), rubidium (Rb), and caesium (Cs) rock chip assays, with values up to 3.86% Li2O, 0.662% Rb, and 611.3 ppm Cs.

Conducting Cultural Heritage Surveys in collaboration with representatives of the Palyku Native Title Group.

Implementing an RC drilling program at Tambourah South, with a total of 21 shallow holes drilled, covering a distance of 1812 meters. The drilling confirmed the presence of extensive anomalous LCT REE mineralization and also intersected hidden mineralized pegmatites below the surface.

As the Company remains focused on core fundamentals and project delivery, we are committed to keeping our shareholders informed about our progress. We sincerely appreciate the continued and valued support from our shareholders.

Thank you.

Cameron McCall

Executive Chairman
Clean Air Metals to Host a Live, Interactive Investor Webinar

THUNDER BAY, ON / ACCESSWIRE / August 29, 2023 / Clean Air Metals Inc. ("Clean Air Metals" or the "Company") (TSXV:AIR); (FRA:CKU); (OTCQB:CLRMF) is pleased to announce new magnetic inversion results from the Company's Thunder Bay North Critical Minerals Project near Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada (the "Project").

The Thunder Bay North Critical Minerals Project hosts an indicated resource of 13.8Mt containing 1.2M ounces of 2PGE (Pt+Pd), 56,800 tonnes of Cu and 33,800 tonnes of Ni between the twin magmatic intrusions (chonoliths) known as the Current and Escape deposits. The Escape deposit contains 5.8Mt grading 2.6g/t 2PGE (Pt+Pd), 0.52% Cu and 0.22% Ni, as announced May 3rd, 2023. The bulk of this mineralization is hosted in the high-grade zone (HGZ) occurring in the south-eastern portion of the currently drill defined intrusion. Mineralization remains open to the southeast.

A magnetic inversion case study was executed along the trend of the Escape chonolith and the intersection of the Escape fault to the southeast, to model the potential down plunge extension of the deposit. The study was successful in identifying a volume of material with high magnetic susceptibility at depth, along the plunge of the Escape intrusion. The magnetic inversion model has an estimated top of ~650m below surface with a vertical extent of ~800m and estimated width of 500m and centred ~2000m ESE of the most eastern intersection of peridotite from the Escape drill program (ELR20-034). The entirety of this plunge potential is currently untested.

A larger geophysical inversion program using existing datasets has recently been initiated. Joint inversions of the magnetic, magnetotelluric (MT) and Z-TEM data will be completed for an area of ~80km2 which covers the Thunder Bay North Intrusive complex. The magnetic susceptibility and conductivity products from these inversions will be utilized to target the intrusions and potential mineralization hosted within at depth.

Geoff Heggie, VP Exploration commented: "The location and size of this magnetic anomaly is a logical down plunge extension of the Escape intrusion and fits with the genesis theory of these intrusions where mineral bearing magma was injected at high pressure from depth. The further refinement of this anomaly by the recently commissioned geophysical inversion program will establish the targets for the next phase of diamond drilling which is expected to commence early in 2024".

Methodology: Two magnetic inversion models were completed by EarthEX utilizing data from a 2010 ground survey and a 2008 airborne magnetic survey data. The 2008 airborne survey was completed by UTS Geophysics, utilizing a fixed wing PAC-750XL plane with three Geometrics G822A cesium vapour total field magnetometers in conjunction with a fluxgate three component vector magnetometer. The survey was carried out on 40m spaced lines and a nominal sensor height of 30m. Magnetic inversions were run on both data sets as unconstrained and generated similar results (Fig. 1) which identified a volume of material with high magnetic susceptibility at depth, along the plunge of the Escape intrusion.

Figure 1A: Plan view of the Escape chonolith (purple), the interpreted strike of the Escape fault (teal) and magnetic inversion model of the 2008 airborne magnetic data (Blue). Magnetic inversion model is filtered to shown blocks with highest magnetic susceptibility

Figure 1B: Long section view of the Escape chonolith (purple) with the high magnetic susceptibility model down plunge to the right (blue).

Permitting

The early exploration permitting process for the next phase of exploration drilling was submitted in May 2023 and has received support from the three proximate First Nations communities upon whose traditional territory the Thunder Bay North project lies and from the two potentially affected Metis communities. The Ministry of Mines is currently consulting with one final Indigenous group and the Company expects the permits to be issued later this fall.

Receipt of Final Metallurgical Test Report

On August 22nd the Company received the final report from Base Metallurgical labs for the completed Phase Two metallurgical test program (see press release dated June 29, 2023). The test program was completed using large diameter core samples from both the Current and Escape deposits to produce 3 composites and 17 variability samples. The test program comprised a suite of 80 open circuit development tests, 8 locked cycle flotation tests and follow-up variability tests. Modelled recoveries are shown in Table 1 (below). These were generated using estimated head grades and the recovery curves derived from the Phase Two test program.

Table 1: Modelled recoveries

Near Surface High Grade Zones (Early Years Mining)

Pt Pd Cu Ni Au Ag % Recovery 80.6% 86.2% 95.9% 57.0% 85.0% 65.2% Head Grade 1.58 g/t 1.61 g/t 0.45 % 0.24 % 0.11 g/t 2.77 g/t

Remaining Zones (Later Mining)

Pt Pd Cu Ni Au Ag % Recovery 77.6% 85.0% 95.4% 55.5% 85.0% 65.2% Head Grade 1.18 g/t 1.30 g/t 0.41 % 0.23 % 0.10 g/t 2.52 g/t

Optimal results were achieved with bulk flotation, followed by a copper-nickel separation process which resulted in a simple flowsheet and improved overall recovery of metals in two concentrates. The modelled concentrate grade outlined the potential for a clean copper concentrate grading 22% Cu, 38 g/t Pt+Pd and a PGE Ni-rich concentrate grading 50 g/t Pt+Pd and 3.75% Ni. In addition, the results of three multi-element scans of the concentrates did not identify problematic abundances of deleterious elements. A preliminary assessment of concentrate marketability was completed and identified that the projected concentrates produced, were marketable with interest and indicative terms received from several domestic and overseas smelters.

Market Commentary

With four critical metals as potentially payable in its concentrate, the Company is well positioned to take advantage of the pending metals price super cycle predicted by many analysts to supply the green energy revolution. Climate related events over the last few years have awoken the world to the effects of climate change and the need to transition away from fossil fuels as quickly as possible. Almost every major government is injecting significant financial incentives into the green energy transition. Were it not for a generally slower global economy, most significantly China's slowing economy, we would perhaps already be entering a metals price super cycle.

Of particular importance to Clean Air Metals, but not fully recognized yet by the markets, is the important role that platinum will play in the green hydrogen economy. Hydrogen is expected to be the fuel that replaces carbon-based energy in planes, ships, trains, long distance trucking and the remainder of the heavy transportation industry. In addition, steel manufacturing and other heavy industry, currently reliant on fossil fuels will have to transition to hydrogen.

The production of green hydrogen through electrolysis utilizes platinum in the electrodes to improve efficiency and resist corrosion. Likewise, hydrogen fuel cells use a platinum-based membrane to generate electricity from hydrogen. The platinum market globally is very small with only about 6 million ounces of primary production per year, almost 90% of which comes from South Africa with its inherent supply risk.

Jim Gallagher, CEO of Clean Air Metals stated: "The Thunder Bay North project remains one of the very few and very rare platinum projects outside of Africa. The project development timeline of further exploration, permitting, technical studies and project construction potentially aligns with the growth of the hydrogen economy and potential metals price appreciation. We continue to prudently manage our cash resources and still advance the Project. Equity markets in general are currently very difficult for most of the junior mining sector and the Company does not currently intend to do any dilutive financing at these low valuations. We currently have approximately $8 million in cash, sufficient to support currently planned activities well into 2024. We do continue to investigate potential strategic partners who share the Company's long-term view on the platinum market and who potentially would partner with the Company moving forward."

Upcoming Events

Webinar and Q&A session: September 6, 2023 at 4pm ET

Beaver Creek Precious Metals Summit: September 12-15, 2023

Qualified Person

Dr. Geoff Heggie, Ph.D., P.Geo., a Qualified Person under National Instrument 43-101 and Vice President, Exploration for the Company, has reviewed and approved all technical information in this press release.

Indigenous Community Social and Economic Engagement

Clean Air Metals Inc. and its wholly owned subsidiary Panoramic PGMs (Canada) Ltd. acknowledge that the Thunder Bay North Project is on the traditional territories of the Fort William First Nation, Red Rock First Nation and Biinjitiwabik Zaaging Anishinabek. The parties together are the Cooperating Participants in a Memorandum of Agreement dated January 9, 2021 (press release January 11, 2021) and Exploration Agreement signed April 13, 2022 (press release April 14, 2022).

The Company appreciates the opportunity to work in these territories and remains committed to the recognition and respect of those who have lived, traveled, and gathered on the lands since time immemorial. Clean Air Metals is committed to stewarding Indigenous heritage and remains committed to building, fostering and encouraging a respectful relationship with First Nations, Metis and Inuit peoples based upon principles of mutual trust, respect, reciprocity and collaboration in the spirit of reconciliation.

About Clean Air Metals Inc.

Clean Air Metals' flagship asset is the 100% owned, high grade Thunder Bay North Critical Minerals Project, a platinum, palladium, copper, nickel project located near the City of Thunder Bay, Ontario and the Lac des Iles Mine owned by Impala Platinum. The Thunder Bay North Critical Minerals Project hosts the Current and Escape deposits, twin magma conduits which form the basis for the new mineral resource estimate reported on May 4, 2023.

CEO Jim Gallagher and COO Mike Garbutt lead an experienced technical team who are using a orthomagmatic mineral deposit model to guide ongoing exploration and development studies for a potential mine development on the Project. As the former CEO of North American Palladium Ltd. which owned the Lac des Iles Mine prior to the sale to Impala Platinum in December 2019, Jim Gallagher and team are credited with the mine turnaround and creation of significant value for shareholders.

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS

"Jim Gallagher"

Jim Gallagher, Chief Executive Officer of Clean Air Metals Inc.

For further information, please contact:

Jim Gallagher, Chief Executive Officer of Clean Air Metals Inc.

Phone: 705-690-7997

Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Website: www.cleanairmetals.ca

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Cautionary Note

The information contained herein contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of applicable securities legislation, including statements regarding the potential of the Thunder Bay North Project and the Escape and Current deposits and timing of technical studies including prefeasibility studies and updated mineral resource estimates. Forward-looking statements relate to information that is based on assumptions of management, forecasts of future results, and estimates of amounts not yet determinable. Any statements that express predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions or future events or performance are not statements of historical fact and may be "forward-looking statements." Forward-looking statements are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties which could cause actual events or results to differ from those reflected in the forward-looking statements, including, without limitation: political and regulatory risks associated with mining and exploration; risks related to the maintenance of stock exchange listings; risks related to environmental regulation and liability; the potential for delays in exploration or development activities or the completion of feasibility studies; the uncertainty of profitability; risks and uncertainties relating to the interpretation of drill results, the geology, grade and continuity of mineral deposits; risks related to the inherent uncertainty of production and cost estimates and the potential for unexpected costs and expenses; results of prefeasibility and feasibility studies, and the possibility that future exploration, development or mining results will not be consistent with the Company's expectations; risks related to commodity price fluctuations; and other risks and uncertainties related to the Company's prospects, properties and business detailed elsewhere in the Company's disclosure record. Should one or more of these risks and uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those described in forward-looking statements. Investors are cautioned against attributing undue certainty to forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date hereof and the Company does not assume any obligation to update or revise them to reflect new events or circumstances, except in accordance with applicable securities laws. Actual events or results could differ materially from the Company's expectations or projection.
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - August 29, 2023) - Tembo Gold Corp. (TSXV: TEM) ("Tembo", or the "Company") - is pleased to announce that its subsidiary Tembo Gold Tanzania Limited (the "Subsidiary") has entered into a License Purchase Agreement dated August 28th, 2023 (the "Agreement") with an arm's length private Tanzanian Citizen, pursuant to which the Subsidiary will acquire (the "Acquisition") the Dora Gold Project (the "Project") in Tanzania.

The Project

The Project (PL11953/2022 of 19km2) borders the Imwelo Mining License to the west, east and south. The Company announced the proposed acquisition of the Imwelo Mining License in its press release dated August 10, 2023. Exploration drilling by previous operators has identified a historical resource estimate containing indicated mineral resources of 90,800oz Au at a grade of 1.19 g/t and an inferred mineral resources of 424,310oz Au gold at a grade of 1.43 g/t, located in two zones (the "Historical Resource Estimate"). A number of targets remain to be tested. The Historical Resource Estimate is derived from a report entitled "Independent Competent Person's Report on the Imwelu Gold Project, Tanzania - Mineral Resource Report" dated March 10, 2017 (the "Report") prepared by Minxcon (Pty) Ltd of South Africa. The Historical Resource Estimate presented in the Report was carried out in accordance with the "Australasian Code for Reporting of Exploration Results, Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves" (2012 Edition) prepared by the Joint Ore Reserves Committee of the Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy, Australian Institute of Geoscientists and Minerals Council of Australia. The Historical Resource Estimate was based on a preliminary economic assessment completed in 2014 on the Project, which utilised a cut-off grade of 0.4 g/t, for an open pit scenario. A gold price of USD$1,469/oz, and a 90% plant recovery factor were applied in the calculation of the cut-off, with a 0% dilution factor. The Report includes the following Historical Resource Estimate:

Historical Resource Estimate

The above noted Historical Resource Estimate is the last historical mineral resource estimate on the Project and no more recent data is available to the Company.

A qualified person has not done sufficient work to classify the Historical Resource Estimate as current mineral resources, and the Company is not treating the Historical Resource Estimate as current mineral resources or mineral reserves. The Company believes that the Historical Resource Estimate is relevant to an appraisal of the merits of the Project and forms a reliable basis upon which to develop future exploration programs. The Company will need to conduct further exploration, and there is no guarantee that the results obtained will reflect the historical estimate. In order to verify the Historical Resource Estimate to a current mineral resource estimate, the Company will need to retain a qualified person to verify historical drilling and assaying methods and validate historical results, add any drilling and assaying or other pertinent geological information generated since the last estimation, and complete an updated resource estimate and a new technical report. Significant data compilation, drilling, sampling and data verification may be required by a qualified person before the Historical Resource Estimate can be classified as a current resource. There can be no assurance that any of the historical mineral resources, in whole or in part, will ever become economically viable. In addition, mineral resources are not mineral reserves and do not have demonstrated economic viability. Even if classified as a current mineral resource, there is no certainty as to whether further exploration will result in any inferred mineral resources being upgraded to an indicated or measured mineral resource category.

Terms of the Acquisition

The Acquisition is an arm's length transaction for cash consideration, and is considered an Exempt Transaction under the TSX Venture Exchange policies.

Conditions to the closing of the Acquisition include:

satisfactory search results regarding title to the Project;

approval of the Mining Commission ( Tanzania ) to proceed with the Acquisition, if applicable; and

) to proceed with the Acquisition, if applicable; and other customary conditions precedent for a transaction of this nature.

The Acquisition is expected to be completed by November 30th, 2023.

"The acquisition of this prospecting license immediately adjacent to the recently announced ML Tembo is acquiring from Lake Victoria Gold, provides the Company with an additional area of prospective geology with gold mineralization, as evidenced by historical drilling and extensive artisanal mining," said David Scott, President & CEO of Tembo.

Qualified Person

David Scott, Pr. Sci. Nat., is the Qualified Person responsible for the technical content of this news release. David Scott, Pr. Sci. Nat., has prepared, supervised and approved the scientific and technical disclosure in this news release.

About Tembo

Tembo Gold is a Canadian public company listed on the TSX Venture Exchange under the symbol TEM. The Company has a 100% interest in the Tembo Gold Project which has over forty thousand meters of drilling and is located adjacent to Barrick's 20Moz Bulyanhulu Mine in Tanzania's prolific Lake Victoria Goldfield. In April 2022 Tembo completed a transaction with Barrick, whereby Tembo sold six of its non-core licenses to Barrick for $6mm USD, and Barrick is committed to spending $9mm USD over the first four years. Additionally, Tembo will receive contingent payments of up-to $45mm USD on the first five million ounces discovered by Barrick.

The Company has assembled a highly experienced team with a track record of developing, financing, and operating mining projects in Africa. Joining part of the team is Taifa Group. Taifa Group (a diverse group of companies with interests in amongst others, Mining, Telecoms, Oil & Gas, Agri Business, Pharmaceuticals and Leather) has taken an equity stake in Tembo Gold and through its wholly owned subsidiary Taifa Mining (a wholly Tanzanian owned company). Taifa Mining will also carry out all the contract mining and civil works for the Imwelo project. Taifa Mining is Tanzania's largest mining contractor with over 30 years mining related experience. Taifa have been the contractor of choice to most mines in Tanzania and have maintained long and successful relationships with companies such as Petra, De Beers, Barrick and AngloGold Ashanti. In addition, we also own the largest fleet of mining equipment in Tanzania. As a company, Taifa is committed to adopting and adhering to the latest internationally recognised standards throughout all aspects of its business.

Tembo is focused on the discovery and development of world-class gold projects in Africa as well as seeking additional opportunities that can bring value to the company and shareholders.

On Behalf of the Board of Directors of Tembo,

David Scott

President & CEO

Phone: +255 767 366 146

Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

For more information please contact:

Simon Benstead

Director & CFO

Phone: 604-685-9316

Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Marc Cernovitch

Director

Phone: +1 604-685-9316

Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

NEITHER THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE NOR ITS REGULATION SERVICES PROVIDER (AS THAT TERM IS DEFINED IN THE POLICIES OF THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE) ACCEPTS RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS NEWS RELEASE.

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information

This news release includes certain "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation, including: future exploration plans with respect to the Project, defining current mineral resource and mineral reserves on the Project, the terms of the Acquisition, closing of the Acquisition, including the satisfaction of the closing conditions thereunder and the expected timing thereof, and receipt of all applicable regulatory approvals. All statements in this news release that address events or developments that we expect to occur in the future are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts and are generally, although not always, identified by words such as "expect", "plan", "anticipate", "project", "target", "potential", "schedule", "forecast", "budget", "estimate", "intend" or "believe" and similar expressions or their negative connotations, or that events or conditions "will", "would", "may", "could", "should" or "might" occur. All such forward-looking statements are based on the opinions and estimates of management as of the date such statements are made.

Forward-looking statements necessarily involve assumptions, risks and uncertainties, certain of which are beyond Tembo's control, including risks associated with or related to: the completion of the Acquisition, including receipt of all regulatory approvals and third-party consents, the volatility of metal prices and Tembo's common shares; changes in tax laws; the dangers inherent in exploration, development and mining activities; the uncertainty of reserve and resource estimates; not achieving development or production, cost or other estimates; actual exploration or development plans and costs differing materially from the Company's estimates; the ability to obtain and maintain any necessary permits, consents or authorizations required for mining activities; environmental regulations or hazards and compliance with complex regulations associated with mining activities; climate change and climate change regulations; fluctuations in exchange rates; the availability of financing; financing and debt activities; operations in foreign and developing countries and the compliance with foreign laws, including those associated with operations in Tanzania and including risks related to changes in foreign laws and changing policies related to mining and local ownership requirements or resource nationalization generally, including in response to the COVID-19 outbreak; remote operations and the availability of adequate infrastructure; fluctuations in price and availability of energy and other inputs necessary for mining operations; shortages or cost increases in necessary equipment, supplies and labour; regulatory, political and country risks, including local instability or acts of terrorism and the effects thereof; the reliance upon contractors, third parties and joint venture partners; challenges to title or surface rights; the dependence on key personnel and the ability to attract and retain skilled personnel; the risk of an uninsurable or uninsured loss; adverse climate and weather conditions; litigation risk; competition with other mining companies; community support for Tembo's operations, including risks related to strikes and the halting of such operations from time to time; conflicts with small scale miners; failures of information systems or information security threats; the ability to maintain adequate internal controls over financial reporting as required by law; compliance with anti-corruption laws, and sanctions or other similar measures; social media and Tembo's reputation; and other risks disclosed in the Company's public filings.

Tembo's forward-looking statements are based on the opinions and estimates of management and reflect their current expectations regarding future events and operating performance and speak only as of the date hereof. Tembo does not assume any obligation to update forward-looking statements if circumstances or management's beliefs, expectations or opinions should change other than as required by applicable law. There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, and actual results, performance or achievements could differ materially from those expressed in, or implied by, these forward-looking statements. Accordingly, no assurance can be given that any events anticipated by the forward-looking statements will transpire or occur, or if any of them do, what benefits or liabilities Tembo will derive therefrom. For the reasons set forth above, undue reliance should not be placed on forward-looking statements.
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - August 29, 2023) - TEAKO MINERALS CORP. (CSE: TMIN) (the "Company" or "Teako") is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Liam Hardy and Mr. Owen Garfield to the board of directors of the Company.

Additionally, the Company announces that Mr. Scott Young has resigned as a director of Teako Minerals. The Company wishes to thank him for his tenure and service, and success in his future endeavours.

Mr. Liam Hardy has a family background in mineral exploration, along with a degree in geology from the University of Brighton in the UK. He brings a mix of ore-hunting and corporate development experience to the team, having worked as a geochemical analyst and as an exploration geologist in West Africa, before focusing on streamlining communications in exploration businesses through the founding of 'Spotlight Mining', while also developing several international mineral exploration ventures. Liam is CEO of the private European base metals developer, Ekometall Exploration, who hold Austria's largest copper exploration licences and are active in the field testing past-producing mines for economic viability.

Mr. Owen Garfield is a Chartered Mineral Surveyor based in the UK who worked as a specialist mineral valuer for over 10 years at the Valuation Office Agency. Owen has also worked as a Mineral Estates Surveyor for Tilcon which was subsequently merged with Tarmac, part of the CRH Company, where he was a mineral planner. He holds a BSc degree in Mineral Estates Management from Sheffield Hallam University. He is currently the Managing Director and owner of a surveying company in the UK. Additionally, Mr. Owen Garfield is a Director of EGR Exploration Ltd.

Sven Gollan, Chief Executive Officer of Teako Minerals, comments, "We're thrilled to welcome Liam and Owen to our board of directors. Liam's impressive geological expertise, extensive network, and experience in international corporate development will undoubtedly bring invaluable insights to our team. His insight into sustainable ways of doing exploration and his focused approach on Europe aligns perfectly with our growth strategy, enhancing our potential in that region. Owen's understanding of mineral planning requirements for successful mineral development is a tremendous asset. Owen's knowledge will play a pivotal role in both screening and assessing existing and future projects. With Liam and Owen on board, the Company is well-equipped to navigate the industry's complexities and further elevate Teako's standing in the market."

About Teako Minerals Corp.:

Teako Minerals Corp. is a Vancouver-based mineral exploration company committed to acquiring, exploring, and developing mineral properties in Canada, Norway & Finland exploring for Copper Cobalt & Gold. The adoption of advanced technologies such as the SCS Exploration Product aligns with its strategy to remain at the forefront of the rapidly evolving mining industry.

ON BEHALF OF TEAKO MINERALS CORP.

"Sven Gollan"

CEO

T: +43 5522 500429

Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Forward-Looking Information:

This press release may include forward-looking information within the meaning of Canadian securities legislation, concerning the business of Teako. Forward-looking information is based on certain key expectations and assumptions made by the management of Teako. In some cases, you can identify forward-looking statements by the use of words such as "will," "may," "would," "expect," "intend," "plan," "seek," "anticipate," "believe," "estimate," "predict," "potential," "continue," "likely," "could" and variations of these terms and similar expressions, or the negative of these terms or similar expressions. Forward-looking statements in this press release include: (a) Liam's geological expertise, extensive network, and experience in international corporate development will undoubtedly bring invaluable insights to the team at Teako, and (b) Owen's knowledge will play a pivotal role in both screening and assessing existing and future projects. Although Teako believes that the expectations and assumptions on which such forward-looking information is based are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on the forward-looking information because Teako can give no assurance that they will prove to be correct. Since forward-looking statements address future events and conditions, by their very nature they involve inherent risks and uncertainties. Actual results could differ materially from those currently anticipated due to a number of factors and risks. These include, but are not limited to, risks associated with the mineral exploration industry in general (e.g., operational risks in development, exploration and production; the uncertainty of mineral resource estimates; the uncertainty of estimates and projections relating to production, costs and expenses, and health, safety and environmental risks), constraint in the availability of services, commodity price and exchange rate fluctuations, changes in legislation impacting the mining industry, adverse weather conditions and uncertainties resulting from potential delays or changes in plans with respect to exploration or development projects or capital expenditures. These and other risks are set out in more detail in Teako's interim Management's Discussion and Analysis dated April 30, 2023.

The Canadian Securities Exchange (CSE) has not reviewed and does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or the accuracy of the contents of this release.

Not for dissemination in the United States or through U.S. newswires
Shanghai (Gasgoo)- On August 28, 2023, amidst the celebration of its 27th anniversary, Chinese major commercial vehicle (CV) Foton Motor marked the occasion with the launch event of its refreshed brand identity at the Simatai Great Wall in Beijing. This event heralded the introduction of five major business strategies and an entirely new brand emblem. Adding to the significance, the event featured the unveiling of two new products: the Auman iBlue bottom battery swappable heavy-duty truck and the Xiangling Q.

Chairman of Foton Motor, Chang Rui, unveiled and expounded on the company's five strategic thrusts: the dual-carbon strategy, the new energy vehicle (NEV) strategy, the digital ecosystem construction strategy, the globalization strategy, and renewed brand strategy. These strategic directions will propel the automaker to drive technological empowerment, business model innovation, and global operations.

In line with its innovation agenda, Foton Motor positions the NEV strategy as its primary developmental focus. It aspires to reach carbon peak by 2028, carbon neutrality for core factories by 2035, and complete carbon neutrality throughout the full value chain by 2050. Besides, the company plans to release its inaugural ESG report in 2024.

New brand identity; photo credit: Foton Motor

Simultaneously, Foton Motor is poised for an accelerated transition to NEVs, targeting urban markets, city clusters, and long-haul logistics. Focusing on pure electric, hydrogen fuel, and hybrid technology routes, the company aims to expedite the expansion of its NEV product portfolio. A target of 20% NEV penetration rate is set for 2025, with ambitions to reach 50% by 2030.

Beyond this, Foton Motor underscores its commitment to low-carbon usage of NEVs, pioneering innovative marketing formats, and constructing a digital high-efficiency ecosystem. By fostering the innovation in marketing models, the automaker aims to guide dealerships toward transitioning from traditional sales, service, and parts provision to customer management, second-hand vehicle trade, business-oriented leasing, energy supply, etc. As a part of its comprehensive upgrade, the company aim to create a network of new energy ecological harbors and customer service centers, while hastening the digital transformation for greater operational efficiency.

Taking a strategic leap in the context of rapid NEV transformation, Foton Motor embarks on its fourth brand update, unveiling a fresh brand strategy: "Easy Move". This strategy encapsulates the companys aspiration for seamless mobility of people, vehicles, goods, energy, digits, and value  allowing a blend of virtual and real-time interaction, painting a picture of a promising future where these facets move with freedom across time and space.

Foton Motor said its new emblem inherits the tradition of innovation and excellence associated with the diamond quality, while embracing the new concept of environmentally-friendly development. The radiant diamond signifies Foton's pursuit and legacy of impeccable quality and hints at renewed breakthroughs. The circular element, shaped by the global ecosystem, symbolizes an industry-wide commitment to a greener, low-carbon, and digitally ecological future. The new design showcases Foton Motor's dedication to harmonious advancement of both technologies and nature, and signifies technological empowerment and business model innovation to ensure effortless value creation.

With the fresh strategic direction, Foton Motor is gearing up to upgrade its brand architecture, extending its presence from vehicles and components to digital technology and business ecosystems. Its roadmap will introduce new sub-brands covering electric drive bridges, hybrid power solutions, hydrogen energy, carbon assets, and more.

Auman iBLUE bottom battery swappable heavy-duty truck; photo credit: Foton Motor

During the event, the Auman iBLUE bottom battery swappable heavy-duty truck was also put onto the market.

Xiangling Q; photo credit: Foton Motor

Moreover, as a stylish micro-truck graced the stage, the Xiangling Q made its global debut. Gong Haidong, Vice President of Business of Foton Motor Group, introduced the Xiangling Q as a "global micro-truck emerging force," a new-generation micro-truck that harmonizes global resources with practical and aesthetic design  marking the first product following Foton Motor's latest brand renewal.
VANCOUVER, BC, Aug. 29, 2023 /CNW/ - NexGen Energy Ltd. ("NexGen" or the "Company") (TSX: NXE) (NYSE: NXE) (ASX: NXG) is pleased to announce the appointment of Ben Salter as Chief Financial Officer ("CFO"), effective September 1, 2023. Mr. Salter commenced with NexGen in June 2021 and currently holds the role of Vice President, Finance. He has extensive experience in financial reporting, regulatory compliance, internal controls, and corporate finance activities. Mr. Salter is a Chartered Professional Accountant and holds a Bachelor of Commerce from the University of Victoria. Prior to NexGen, Mr. Salter worked at Methanex Corporation and Innergex Renewable Energy Inc. (previously Alterra Power Corp.) where he was responsible for financial reporting, controls and systems. Mr. Salter will assume the CFO position upon the resignation of Harpreet Dhaliwal who is pursuing other career interests.

Leigh Curyer, Chief Executive Officer, commented: "Ben has been an important part of NexGen's growth journey, and has consistently demonstrated exceptional commitment to the Company. His extensive knowledge of NexGen's financial landscape and requirements, combined with strong leadership abilities, make him the ideal candidate for the role of CFO, and positions the Company for an expansion. The entire NexGen leadership team and the Board of Directors would like to thank Harpreet for her valuable contributions during her time with the Company. Harpreet played a significant role in implementing key financial systems."

In addition, the Company is delighted to welcome Tracy Primeau as a Special Advisor specializing in community. With an extensive background in nuclear energy, Tracy's journey began at Ontario Power Generation's Pickering Nuclear Power Station, leading her to become one of the few women to attain a Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission ("CNSC") license at Bruce Power and its sole female Shift Manager. A dedicated board member of both Ontario Power Generation and Women in Nuclear ("WiN") Canada, Tracy's commitment extends beyond the industry, notably as an influential mentor, active community participant, and proud Nipissing First Nation member. Her leadership, rooted in the Seven Grandfather Teachings, continues to inspire change and education on climate and Indigenous knowledge.

Mr. Curyer commented: "On behalf of the Board and Executive, it is a privilege to have Tracy join us at this exciting pivotal stage in the Company's development. Her vast experience and aligned values with respect to genuine community engagement and advancement will further compliment NexGen's demonstrated commitment in driving transformative change for all stakeholders."

About NexGen

NexGen Energy is a Canadian company focused on delivering clean energy fuel for the future. The Company's flagship Rook I Project is being optimally developed into the largest low cost producing uranium mine globally, incorporating the most elite standards in environmental and social governance. The Rook I Project is supported by a NI 43-101 compliant Feasibility Study which outlines the elite environmental performance and industry leading economics. NexGen is led by a team of experienced uranium and mining industry professionals with expertise across the entire mining life cycle, including exploration, financing, project engineering and construction, operations and closure. NexGen is leveraging its proven experience to deliver a Project that leads the entire mining industry socially, technically and environmentally. The Project and prospective portfolio in northern Saskatchewan will provide generational long-term economic, environmental, and social benefits for Saskatchewan, Canada, and the world.

NexGen is listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange, the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol "NXE" and on the Australian Securities Exchange under the ticker symbol "NXG" providing access to global investors to participate in NexGen's mission of solving three major global challenges in decarbonization, energy security and access to power. The Company is headquartered in Vancouver, British Columbia, with its primary operations office in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan.

Forward-Looking Information

The information contained herein contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of applicable United States securities laws and regulations and "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. "Forward-looking information" includes, but is not limited to, statements with respect to mineral reserve and mineral resource estimates, the 2021 Arrow Deposit, Rook I Project and estimates of uranium production, grade and long-term average uranium prices, anticipated effects of completed drill results on the Rook I Project, planned work programs, completion of further site investigations and engineering work to support basic engineering of the project and expected outcomes. Generally, but not always, forward-looking information and statements can be identified by the use of words such as "plans", "expects", "is expected", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates", or "believes" or the negative connotation thereof or variations of such words and phrases or state that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will be taken", "occur" or "be achieved" or the negative connotation thereof. Statements relating to "mineral resources" are deemed to be forward-looking information, as they involve the implied assessment that, based on certain estimates and assumptions, the mineral resources described can be profitably produced in the future.

Forward-looking information and statements are based on the then current expectations, beliefs, assumptions, estimates and forecasts about NexGen's business and the industry and markets in which it operates. Forward-looking information and statements are made based upon numerous assumptions, including among others, that the mineral reserve and resources estimates and the key assumptions and parameters on which such estimates are based are as set out in this news release and the technical report for the property , the results of planned exploration activities are as anticipated, the price and market supply of uranium, the cost of planned exploration activities, that financing will be available if and when needed and on reasonable terms, that third party contractors, equipment, supplies and governmental and other approvals required to conduct NexGen's planned exploration activities will be available on reasonable terms and in a timely manner and that general business and economic conditions will not change in a material adverse manner. Although the assumptions made by the Company in providing forward looking information or making forward looking statements are considered reasonable by management at the time, there can be no assurance that such assumptions will prove to be accurate in the future.

Forward-looking information and statements also involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties and other factors, which may cause actual results, performances and achievements of NexGen to differ materially from any projections of results, performances and achievements of NexGen expressed or implied by such forward-looking information or statements, including, among others, the existence of negative operating cash flow and dependence on third party financing, uncertainty of the availability of additional financing, the risk that pending assay results will not confirm previously announced preliminary results, conclusions of economic valuations, the risk that actual results of exploration activities will be different than anticipated, the cost of labour, equipment or materials will increase more than expected, that the future price of uranium will decline or otherwise not rise to an economic level, the appeal of alternate sources of energy to uranium-produced energy, that the Canadian dollar will strengthen against the U.S. dollar, that mineral resources and reserves are not as estimated, that actual costs or actual results of reclamation activities are greater than expected, that changes in project parameters and plans continue to be refined and may result in increased costs, of unexpected variations in mineral resources and reserves, grade or recovery rates or other risks generally associated with mining, unanticipated delays in obtaining governmental, regulatory or First Nations approvals, risks related to First Nations title and consultation, reliance upon key management and other personnel, deficiencies in the Company's title to its properties, uninsurable risks, failure to manage conflicts of interest, failure to obtain or maintain required permits and licences, risks related to changes in laws, regulations, policy and public perception, as well as those factors or other risks as more fully described in NexGen's Annual Information Form dated February 24, 2023 filed with the securities commissions of all of the provinces of Canada except Quebec and in NexGen's 40-F filed with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission, which are available on SEDAR at www.sedar.com and Edgar at www.sec.gov .

Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in the forward-looking information or statements or implied by forward-looking information or statements, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking information or statements due to the inherent uncertainty thereof.

There can be no assurance that forward-looking information and statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated, estimated or intended. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements or information. The Company undertakes no obligation to update or reissue forward-looking information as a result of new information or events except as required by applicable securities laws.
VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Aug. 28, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Medallion Resources Ltd. (TSX-V: MDL; OTCQB: MLLOF; Frankfurt: MRDN)  Medallion or the Company) announced today the appointment of Mr. Gabriel Alonso-Mendoza as Interim Chief Executive Officer. Based in New York City, Mr. Alonso-Mendoza is the founder and managing partner of Amvest Capital Inc., a specialist investment management and corporate finance firm focused solely on the natural resources sector. He brings 15 years of financial and resource markets experience.

The Company also announced the resignations of Mr. Alfredo Ramos Plasencia as Chief Executive Officer and Director and Dr. Kurt Forrester as Chief Technical Officer and Director. Both Mr. Ramos and Dr. Forrester will remain available to Medallion in advisory roles.

Mr. Ramos and Dr. Forrester have been instrumental in advancing the Company's displacement chromatography technology developed by Purdue University. Medallion holds exclusive, worldwide rights to use the patented methodology for the separation of rare earths and other minerals from raw materials other than coal by-products, coal waste and acid mine drainage, and wastes and recyclates from battery and magnet sources.

Medallions vision is to power the energy transition through innovation in critical minerals. The Company aims to become an owner-operator of critical mineral processing facilities in partnership with upstream feedstock and downstream offtake partners. By leveraging innovative extraction technologies and building a resilient supply chain, Medallion seeks to ensure reliable access to critical minerals while meeting the highest environmental standards.

Mr. Alonso-Mendoza commented, Im honored to take on this leadership role in Medallion at such a pivotal moment in the Companys history. On behalf of the Board of Directors, we extend our thanks to Alfredo and Kurt for their valuable technical and commercial contributions to Medallions growth and development. I look forward to working closely with the Board and our dedicated team to build on the Medallions impressive foundation.

ABOUT MEDALLION RESOURCES LTD.



Medallion Resources (TSX-V: MDL; OTCQB: MLLOF; Frankfurt: MRDN) has exclusively licensed patented displacement chromatography methodologies developed by Purdue University from Purdue Research Foundation to separate minerals, including rare earth elements from all raw material feedstocks excluding coal sources and excluding recycled materials from manufacturing wastes and recyclates from battery and magnet sources. Separately, Medallion has developed a proprietary process and related business model to achieve low-cost extraction of rare earth elements from monazite, a phosphate mineral that is a common byproduct of heavy mineral sand operations.

REEs are critical inputs to electric and hybrid vehicles, robotics, electronics, imaging systems, wind turbines, and strategic defense systems. Medallion is committed to following best practices and accepted international standards in all aspects of mineral transportation, processing, and the safe management of waste materials. Medallion utilizes the Life Cycle Assessment methodology to support investment and process decision-making.

More about Medallion can be found at www.mdl-innovations.com.

Contacts

Gabriel Alonso-Mendoza, Interim CEO

+1 212 970 1963 | This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Douglas Newby, CFO

+1 212 867 1834 | This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Medallion management takes full responsibility for the content of and has prepared this news release. Some of the statements contained in this release are forward-looking statements, such as statements regarding the commercialization of its technologies and opportunities for expansion of the technology portfolio in the future, and any statements that describe Medallions plans with respect to general strategic matters and the advancement of its business plan, and Medallions ability to advance and commercialize its technology platforms and negotiate commercial agreements with third parties.

Forward-looking statements are frequently, but not always, identified by words such as "expects," "anticipates," "believes," "intends," "estimates," "potential," "possible," "projects," "plans," and similar expressions, or statements that events, conditions or results "will," "may," "could," or "should" occur or be achieved or their negatives or other comparable words. Since forward-looking statements address future events and conditions, by their very nature, they involve inherent risks and uncertainties, including the risks related to market conditions and regulatory approval and other risks outlined in the Companys management discussions and analysis of financial results. Actual results in each case could differ materially from those currently anticipated in these statements. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date of this press release, and, other than as required by applicable securities laws, Medallion disclaims any intent or obligation to update publicly any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or results or otherwise, except as required pursuant to applicable laws.
Amnesty International called on Tuesday for the release of about 300 people being held in Venezuela for political reasons, slamming the country's "politically-motivated arbitrary detentions".

In a new report, Amnesty said the detentions were used to silence "those who dissent from the government of Nicolas Maduro or for other political purposes."

The group identified patterns in the detentions that included arrests without warrants, a "lack of judicial independence", use of "ambiguous" laws, and "incommunicado detention and isolation of detainees."

Rights groups estimate there are about 300 political prisoners in Venezuela, including nine cases Amnesty said are "emblematic" of abuses in the penal system.

The imprisonments were meant to send a "message of intimidation, often aimed at family members or people close to those who are being repressed," Amnesty said in the report on detentions between 2018 and 2023.

"The rights to freedom, to a fair trial, to integrity and freedom from torture or ill-treatment are often violated through these practices," it said.

One highlighted case was that of Javier Tarazona, founder of the FundaRedes rights group, who was arrested in 2021 and charged with "terrorism" after accusing the Maduro government of links to the Colombian guerrilla group ELN.

Amnesty called on Venezuela to release all political detainees and urged the international community to demand guarantees to prevent such practices from being repeated.

It also called on the International Criminal Court to include the cases in its investigation into alleged crimes against humanity committed by Maduro's administration.
At midday on June 1, Norwegian Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) chairman Dagfinn Hybraten handed over the final report to Norwegian parliament president Masud Gharahkhani at an official ceremony in Stortinget, Oslo. An hour later, only a few 100 metres away, leader of Kvaaniteatteri (the Kven Theatre) Frank Jrstad took stage at the National Theatre to give the first reading aloud of the full TRC report, nearly 700-pages long. This reading took more than 35 hours and could be followed live on the national broadcaster NRK and listening posts around the country.

But other than these two events, the Norwegian TRC has rarely made national headlines in the nearly five years it has been working. It is uncertain how much the Norwegian population actually know of the Truth and Reconciliation process. This situation only underscores one of the general problems pointed out in the TRC report, namely the lack of knowledge of the history and present-day conditions of the Sami, Kven, Norwegian Finns and Forrest Finns.

However, contrary to the truth-seeking processes in Sweden and Finland commissioned by their governments, who may choose to ignore the commissions findings, the Norwegian TRC had the status of a granskingskommission  that is, an inquiry commissioned by Parliament and which Parliament is bound to follow up. In this sense, June 1 only marked the transition to a new phase in the reconciliation process.

Discussing Norwegianization

The three-fold mandate asked for an investigation into Norwegian assimilation policies directed towards the Sami, Kven and Norwegian Finns (the commission itself added the Forrest Finns to the list shortly after commencing); an investigation on the after-effects of the policies; and recommendations on how to reconcile.

The mandate was limited to addressing direct Norwegianization  that is, assimilation policies which took place from the 1860s to 1963. But the report includes an in-depth background section that studies the minorities in a historical perspective, going back to the earliest written records on the relationships between the Finno-Ugric and Germanic-speaking populations in what today is Norway. There has been some debate in recent years as to whether the concept of colonialism can be applied to describe early modern relations between Norwegians and the Sami. The report chooses to discuss the concept in an academically cautious manner. The medieval activities of the Norwegian Crown and the Catholic Church in the Sami areas are presented as a gradual takeover of the Sami homeland. Intensified early modern expansion of the state and Lutheran Church is discussed in terms of state and nation building, and not colonialism. The period leading up to the active assimilation policies is described as a struggle between a Lutheran and pragmatic principle of mission and education emphasizing the importance of the minorities mother tongue, and a forceful nationalist ideology that understands Norwegian as the only language of the state  a struggle which is largely won by the nationalist side.

Norway is a young nation, gaining independence in 1905. Norwegian nationalism has therefore often been understood as a more innocent nationalism, celebrating the nations right to independence. This value was understood as so important that it led to the exclusion of minorities.

Ongoing indirect assimilation

Staying true to the mandate, the report takes a closer look at the after-effects of the official Norwegianization policies, building on interviews with more than 700 people who have shared their own or family stories and experiences. The stories quoted throughout the report give insight into the grievances caused by direct assimilation policies and conflicts between groups in Norwegian society, but also frustrations when dealing with the authorities negligence and the feeling of having to constantly fight for the right of belonging to another ethnic group.

The report documents that indirect Norwegianization has indeed taken place after the official repeal of Norwegianization policies in 1963. This was often part of the development of Norways welfare state after World War Two, based on an ideology of equality for all. However, the report also points out that the minorities were sometimes treated differently from the majority within the scheme of post-war welfare state policies.

The report identifies ongoing indirect assimilation processes within the spheres of language, health and socio-politics, culture, and not least the continued threat posed to traditional livelihoods and business, including especially Sami reindeer herding, Kven and Sea-Sami small scale fisheries and salmon fisheries in the Tana river valley.

Failure to implement minority rights

The TRC understands truth to mean that all parts of society share a solid common knowledge of the past and trust as essential to reconciliation in a Norwegian context. A major finding of the report is the large knowledge gap, meaning the majority population mostly have no knowledge, or only limited knowledge about the Indigenous and national minorities language, culture, and history. On a day-to-day level, the knowledge gap is a direct factor in failure to implement secured rights. Employees in the municipalities simply do not know that these rights exist  or if they do, do not always understand why it is important to follow them.

Indeed, perhaps the reports most important finding is the large gap between Sami and other minorities rights long secured in international laws and conventions adopted by Norway, as well as national laws and regulations, and failure to implement them. Recent examples include the so-called Fosen case and the ongoing struggles that many Kven and Sami parents need to wage to get the language education for their children that is a right under Norwegian law.

The implementation gap results in a crisis of trust between minorities and the state. Securing adequate knowledge of rights and background among officers in relevant ministries, municipalities, schools and so on is key to fostering reconciliation, according to the TRC.

Finally, the report shows a need for adjustment of the majority populations self-image. Norway has often been described as a conformist society, with little or no space to be different. While the official Norwegianization policy has ended, the effects of it continue through strict norms for interaction, where minority language and culture is often understood as something that belongs in the private sphere. Showing ones difference from the majority might thus be interpreted as a provocation and even activism.

The report is out, what now?

The idea to form a truth and reconciliation commission had simmered in Sami political circles since the turn of the Millenium and took form when proposed by a member of the Norwegian Sami Parliament, Laila Susanna Vars, in 2014. It was backed by the Sami Parliament and most Kven, Forrest Finnish and Norwegian Finnish organisations. Indigenous people and minorities also expected things to change. Research from other TRCs around the world suggest that not following up on TRC reports risks aggravating already tense relations within a society, so it is imperative that Norway does follow up on the recommendations.

However, some battles are easier fought than others. Securing access to language education can be tricky in terms of recruiting competent teachers, online tools and awareness that both municipalities and schools are legally bound to prioritize these fields -- although this might become more feasible in coming years. Securing rights to live by traditional small-scale fishery in face of business interests in large-scale Norwegian fishing industries will undoubtedly be a tough political battle, while national interests in wind and waterpower often conflict with the right of Sami reindeer herders to continue their traditional livelihoods.

Apart from the public handing over and reading of the commission report, the Norwegian TRC has not organized any larger national reconciliation events like those organized by, for example, the Canadian TRC. Norways TRC has organized smaller open hearings, and individual processes of reconciliation may have taken place while it was working, but the TRC never aimed at larger transformative national events.

It is the long haul that the TRC had in mind when crafting its recommendations. It is also only in the longer run  in three, ten and 25 years - that the reconciliation process can be evaluated. So far, as part of the obligation to implement the reports recommendations, the Norwegian Parliament has asked its Kontroll  og konstitusjonskomiteen (Control and Constitutional Committee) to take a closer look at how minorities rights are being administered by the state and municipalities. This work has only just begun.
Sudan's army chief on Tuesday visited Egypt on his first trip abroad since the outbreak of war in April, with the latest violence killing dozens of civilians in battle-scarred Darfur.

As Abdel Fattah al-Burhan headed for talks with key ally Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, medics and witnesses said 39 civilians were killed, most of them women and children, in shelling of Nyala, the South Darfur state capital where fighting between the army and paramilitary forces has intensified.

Burhan swapped his trademark military fatigues for a suit and tie and flew from Port Sudan to El Alamein on Egypt's north coast, where he said his forces faced "rebel groups who have committed war crimes in their attempt to seize power".

Western countries have accused the paramilitaries and allied militias of killings based on ethnicity, and the International Criminal Court has opened a new probe into alleged war crimes.

The army has also been accused of abuses, including a July 8 air strike that killed around two dozen civilians.

In their meeting, Sisi's office said he had "reaffirmed Egypt's firm position in standing by Sudan and supporting its security, stability and territorial integrity".

The war between Burhan and his former deputy-turned-rival Mohamed Hamdan Daglo, who commands the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces, has raged since April 15, killing thousands and uprooting millions.

For months, the RSF had besieged Burhan inside a military headquarters in Khartoum, but last week the general made his first foray outside the compound.

On Monday he was in Port Sudan where he made a fiery address to his troops, vowing to "put an end to the rebellion".

His comments came a day after Daglo released a 10-point "vision" to end the war and build "a new state".

The plan calls for "civilian rule based on democratic norms" and "a single, professional, national military institution".

Speaking to Egyptian media on Tuesday, Burhan said Sudan's military is "committed to ending the war" and "does not seek to continue ruling" the country.

"We seek free, fair elections where the Sudanese people can decide what they want."

Before they turned on each other, Burhan had been backed by Daglo when he became Sudan's de facto ruler in a 2021 coup that derailed a fragile transition to civilian rule.

The coup upended a transition painstakingly negotiated between military and civilian leaders following the 2019 ouster of longtime autocrat Omar al-Bashir.

- New Darfur violence -

Fighting in Nyala on Tuesday killed at least 39 civilians when shelling hit their homes, witnesses and a medical source said.

"The entire members of five families were killed in a single day," said Gouja Ahmed, a rights activist originally from the city.

Images posted online showed dozens of shrouded bodies on the ground as well as men placing the dead in a large grave.

Darfur has long been the site of deadly clashes since a war that erupted in 2003 and saw Bashir's government unleash the feared Janjaweed -- precursors of the RSF -- on ethnic minority rebels and civilians.

Since August 11 more than 50,000 people have fled Nyala due to the violence, the United Nations says.

Port Sudan, which has been spared the fighting, is where government officials and the UN have relocated. It is also the site of Sudan's only functioning airport.

Burhan's trip follows multiple diplomatic efforts to end the war in Sudan, with a series of US- and Saudi-brokered ceasefires being systematically violated.

In July, Egypt, which shares borders with Sudan and has received more than 285,000 refugees from its neighbour, hosted a crisis meeting attended by African leaders to seek a solution.

Analysts say the international allies of both sides are set to play crucial roles, with Egypt and Turkey firmly on the army's side and the United Arab Emirates and Russian mercenary group Wagner among those accused of supporting the RSF.

After Egypt, speculation has mounted that Burhan will next travel to Saudi Arabia, which has positioned itself as a mediator also "in opposition to the UAE's plan" to back the RSF, said Magdi el-Gizouli, a researcher with the Rift Valley Institute.

Conservative estimates from the Armed Conflict Location & Event Data project show that nearly 5,000 people have been killed in the more than four-month Sudan conflict.

The United Nations says more than 4.6 million people have been uprooted by the fighting, fleeing inside Sudan as well as to neighbouring countries.

Many of the million people who have fled across borders are living in "increasingly desperate conditions," UN High Commissioner for Refugees, Filippo Grandi, said Tuesday in South Sudan, where more than 230,000 people, including Sudanese refugees and South Sudanese returnees, have sought safety.
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PHOENIXThe process of jury selection has begun as the next federal criminal trial date against Backpage executives and co-founder Michael Lacey proceeds.

A three-week delay of the trial was granted after Lacey's business partner, James Larkin, died of an apparent suicide in early August. Federal prosecutors are presenting a case to justify charges of prostitution-facilitation and money laundering, reports the Courthouse News Service in an August 29 briefing.

AVN reported on Larkin's death earlier this month. The prosecution dropped the charges against Larkin post-mortem.

Critics of the arrests of Lacey and Larkin accuse the federal government of being responsible for the suicide and for carrying on a multi-year witch hunt. A slate of journalists recently published a statement calling for an end to the prosecution of Lacey.

Now, Lacey and other former executives collectively face 100 felony counts ranging from the facilitation of prostitution, money laundering as stated, conspiracy, and other related charges. Central to their defense has long been claims of First Amendment protections.

Prosecutors pressed the federal district judge presiding over the money laundering and facilitation case to bar the defense counsel from mentioning the First Amendment. The judge, U.S. District Judge Diane Humetewa, ruled in favor of the defense, stating that it is incumbent on the prosecution to prove that the business practices the defense characterizes as lawful expression under the First Amendment were illegal.

However, the judge did give permission for some discussion on topics like sex trafficking.

A mistrial was granted in 2021 due to the prosecution in that case consistently alleging that Backpage.com was rife with human trafficking and that Lacey and Larkin were complicit. However, none of the executives in the case against the defunct classified site have been charged with crimes of sexual or human trafficking.

"If you want to talk about trafficking in this case, theres a perfectly good way to do that: charging them with trafficking, Alex Yelderman, special counsel to the Human Trafficking Legal Center, told Courthouse News Service reporter Joe Duhowink.

Yelderman adds: And they cant. They just dont have a case.

Lacey and Larkin founded the Phoenix New Times and a national media company that owned iconic alt-weekly news outlets across the country.

Both are regarded as champions of the First Amendment by civil liberties activists and proponents of digital rights and privacy.
The new update about the teen drama "Spirit Fingers" starring Park Ji Hu, Choi Bomin, Park Yoo Na and Jo Joon Young stirred mixed reactions from fans all around the world.

Since the announcement of its production, many fans looked forward to seeing the quartet work together in a coming of age series. Keep on reading.

'Spirit Fingers' Resumes Filming This Summer

On August 28, the team behind "Spirit Fingers" announced that the production of the new drama has finally resumed this summer.

"Spirit Fingers" stars Park Ji Hu, Choi Bomin, Park Yoo Na and Jo Joon Young and it tells the youthful romance of high school students who find comfort from the colorful world of art and painting.

Previously, the drama filming has been suspended due to the lack of budget and other controversies on the producers' part which received polarizing opinions from the fans.

While the filming for the series finally resumed, there's no possibility that it will never be stopped again anytime soon due to the great damage created by the embezzlement in Studio Dragon.

The production company deeply apologizes for the impending "deterioration of the South Korean drama market" in the coming years.

Hundreds of K-Dramas that were filmed in the past year were never released. Kim Hee Sun's "Gaslighting" has also been suspended due to the poor financial situation of production companies.

Despite the decline in the drama production, fans hope that "Spirit Fingers" pushes through filming, and soon gets released on an OTT platform in both the domestic and global scenes.

As of the moment, Park Ji Hu, Choi Bomin, Park Yoo Na and Jo Joon Young resume filming the remaining scenes for their new drama.

'Spirit Fingers' Further Details & What We Know So Far

"Spirit Fingers" is based on the webtoon of the same name which tells the magical world of young students who find serendipity in an art club called Spirit Fingers.

The series is written by "The Bride of the Water God" screenwriter Jung Yoon Jung, and the whole series will reportedly consist of a total of 12 episodes with 50 minutes running time each.

Due to the commotion among production companies the drama hasn't confirmed its network. Filming resumed this summer which raised the excitement of prospective viewers, and it's expected to end in October.

"Spirit Fingers" will be released after finalizing the drama and its intricate details so don't miss it. Stay tuned for more updates!

KDramaStars owns this article.

Written by Elijah Mully.
Go Yoon Jung arouses talk for her goddess-like visuals once again following her participation in the hit drama "Moving."

Since her debut, her ethereal glow has been one of her assets as an actress aside from her immersive acting skills. Read to know what the netizens think.

Go Yoon Jung's Ethereal Visuals Stir Massive Buzz In Hallyu

Following her participation in the Disney+ series "Moving," rising actress Go Yoon Jung becomes a hot topic once again for her unrivaled visuals.

Earlier this 2023, she made headlines for the same reason after her brief appearance in "Alchemy of Souls: Light and Shadow."

In her brand new series, Go Yoon Jung transformed into Jang Hee Soo, a brave student who cares for her father and the people dear to her heart.

She appeared with natural makeup and a simple wardrobe, which gave emphasis to her flawless beauty that became a hot topic among South Korean netizens.

Her big eyes and proportionate face give off an elegant aura, dubbed as "doll-like" beauty, that surprises the viewers.

While some claim that the actress went under the knife, many fans defend the actress and are still in awe of her golden ratio face.

In fact, she has decorated many lifestyle and fashion magazines like Vogue, Elle and Cosmopolitan as she represents luxury brands like Giorgio Armani, Dior and more.

Why You Should Watch 'Moving'

Amidst the influx of action, romance and revenge series, "Moving" offered a fresh and intriguing narrative with its star-studded cast with Ryu Seung Ryong, Han Hyo Joo, Jo In Sung and more.

"Moving" is a fantasy series which follows the riveting lives of families who are equipped with supernatural powers.

From super strength, psychokinesis, invisibility and more, "Moving" tells the stories of people who live a normal life while being called by the supernatural gods to save the world. Don't miss the new fantasy drama! Now streaming on Disney+!

Have you seen Disney+'s "Moving" yet? Tell us what you think about the series in the comments below!

YOU MIGHT ALSO BE INTERESTED IN THIS: Kim So Hyun & Hwang Minhyun's 'My Lovely Liar' Ranks No 1 In Global Charts + What To Expect From Second Half of the Drama

KDramaStars owns this article.

Written by Elijah Mully.
Webtoon and "Moving" screenwriter Kang Full talked about the casting process for the 20-episode series, and revealed why he wanted Cha Tae Hyun to play as Lightning Man.

The Disney+ series is currently making a huge craze as viewers get hooked on every episode of the action sci-fi K-drama. Based on the webtoon written by Kang Full, "Moving" is directed by Park In Je of "Kingdom" season 2. It depicts the journey of three high school students who have superpowers that they inherited from their parents.

Among the lead stars is Cha Tae Hyun, who plays as Jeon Gye Do, a.k.a. the Lightning Man.

'Moving' Writer Kang Full Personally Offered Lightning Man Role to Cha Tae Hyun

Jeon Gye Do's story was revealed during the premiere of "Moving." He looked like an ordinary bus driver but harbors superhuman powers.

He used to think that his lightning ability was a curse because he had difficulty landing a job because of it. Not until he auditions as the first Lightning Man, a fictional character who possesses the same power as him.

In an interview obtained by a local media outlet, Kang Full said that he personally wanted Cha Tae Hyun to play the role. Since he "actively participated in casting," he offered the role to the actor, who gladly accepted it.

"When I thought about who could play this character, I could only think of actor Cha Tae Hyun, so I even cast myself," he shared.

Kang Full also expressed his gratitude towards the actor for perfectly playing the role despite the character being "very difficult" to portray.

Interestingly, Lightning Man was not part of the original webtoon but created the character for the K-drama adaptation. According to the writer, he created Jeon Gye Do because he wanted "a middle generation between parents and children."

In "Moving," Jo In Sung and Han Hyo Joo played as Lee Jung Ha's parents, while Ryu Seung Ryong portrayed Go Yoon Jung's father.

As for Cha Tae Hyun, he had no child in the story but depicted his relationship to his family and father, where he got his superpowers.

On the other hand, Kang Full discussed Jeon Gye Do's special ability and said that the character is the "most difficult to express" and, at the same time, a "lonely character."

"He has no choice but to be at odds with anyone because static electricity is generated in his body, he wears gloves, and he has the most unattractive superpower," he furthered.

'Moving' Episodes 12 - 13 Release Date

Disney+ released stills for the upcoming episode of "Moving."

For the 12th and 13th episodes, it will focus on Jo In Sung and Ryu Seung Ryong's story as secret agent partners.

Jo In Sung, who has flying ability, plays as top-tier black-ops agent Kim Doo Shik, while Jang Joo Won is his junior and is played by Ryu Seung Ryong.

Viewers will get to see "Moving" episodes 12 and 13 on August 30 at 4 p.m. KST through Disney+ and Hulu.

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT: Jo In Sung Asked 'Moving' Writer to Change THIS Line - And Fans Think It Made the Scene 100x More Romantic!

For more K-Drama, K-Movie, and celebrity news, keep your tabs open here at KDramaStars.

KDramaStars owns this article

Written by Geca Wills
ROMEAVN Hall of Famer Rocco Siffredi announced that he supports making porn harder to access in Italy as a means to restrict all minors from seeing age-restricted material.

Siffredi earned the praise of the right-wing Italian government for his words via the minister for the family, birth rate, and equal opportunities Eugenia Roccella, a conservative Catholic.

According to the Italian news wire services ANSA, Siffredi supports Roccellas campaign to stop youth from accessing online pornography in a format that is similar to U.S.-based attempts and the recent adoption of age verification by the French government.

Mr. Siffredi agrees with me that this must be stopped, possibly because he is a father, Roccella said, based on reporting by ANSAs English language service.

Roccella outlines that there might be a causal link between viewing what she categorizes as violent online porn to sexual assault and rape crimes.

However, a direct causal link has not been proven, she admitted.

The Times in London pointed out that a part of Roccellas renewal to limit access to online porn is based on recent high-profile sexual assaults that have occurred across Italy in recent months.

One case that comes to mind for Roccella and her calls for restrictions is an act where a group of males raped a 19-year-old woman and posted it online in the Sicilian capital city of Palermo.

Another case of violence the minister points to occurred outside of the city of Naples, the regional capital of Campania, where a group of men raped two minors.

Reporting from Rome, The Times correspondent Tom Kington states that this pair of cases of sexual assault have dominated headlines in Italy all this past month.

Siffredi sat in for an interview with an Italian language newspaper where he asked readers: Why have they allowed the proliferation of accessible and free porn sites, easily viewed by very young kids which send them distorted messages about sexuality?

High-profile scientific and sociological studies from recent years show that viewing pornography, including violent pornography, very rarely leads to sexual violence or the commission of these sorts of crimes.

One study of high school-aged males found no evidence for the proposal that online porn use encourages men to be sexually violent.

Another study, which made international headlines in 2020, found that at the population level, studies explored the relationship between pornography consumers and sexual violence and found that an increase in available pornography reduced sexual aggression.

AVN reported recently that claims that pornography is rife with widespread videos of violence against performers, particularly women, are often misconstrued by naive viewers as violent over actual play, potentially BDSM, and being a consensual sexual experience for all.
Linda Potyok (left) and Andreas Pauls, volunteers with the Salvation Armys emergency disaster services, dish up food to volunteer Mike Reimer, during the McDougall Creek Wildfire. The three are part of the more than 100 volunteers helping at the emergency support services reception centre.
Amber Fritz, the manager of Sudbury's supervised consumption site is shown in Sudbury, Ont., Wednesday, Aug. 9, 2023. Anxiety is mounting over the future of two supervised consumption sites in northern Ontario as funding for them is set to run out at the end of the year. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Gino Donato
LOS ANGELESTwo women who claim that veteran porn actor Ron Jeremy sexually assaulted them at the Rainbow Bar & Grill in West Hollywood are suing the famed eatery for negligence in maintaining a safe environment for their female patrons, according to Deadline.com today.

The restaurants management are accused of knowingly allowing a sexual predator into their bar time and time again and allowed him a dungeon, the employees restroom, for committing heinous sexual acts against Defendants female patrons, read the Aug. 21 complaint filed on behalf of Jane Doe 1 and Jane Doe 2 in Los Angeles Superior Court against the owners of the Rainbow.

Citing grand jury testimony that resulted in Jeremys arrest on multiple rape charges in 2020, the lawsuit filed by Los Angeles-based firm Panish Shea Boyle Ravipudi LLP and Encino-set Nabati Law PC seeks a unspecified damages for their clients after the alleged March 17, 2017, attacks in the facilitys back bathroom, Deadline reported.

According to the lawsuit, Jeremy escorted the two women past several staff members to the restaurants rear. Once they reached the bathroom, Jeremy followed Jane Doe 1 and Jane Doe2 into the bathroom and attempted to solicit pictures of them that appeared like they were giving him a blowjob.

Jane Doe 1 managed to escape, but Jane Doe 2 did not and Jeremy continued to sexually assault Jane Doe 2 in the bathroom, putting his hands in her private areas, despite her pleas for him to stop. At one point, after being in the bathroom for an unclear period of time, Jane Doe 2 shouted at Jeremy to stop, in hopes that Rainbow Bar staff would hear her and intervene. But after they escaped the restroom, Jeremy still continued to target them while they attempted to leave Rainbow Bar, the suit alleged.

Jeremy in early February was found unfit to stand trial in the 30-count case against him for rape and other sexual misconduct spanning decades. He is currently being held at a state mental health facility.
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Should I get a PSA?

It depends. Who is asking, and why?

If the question is being asked by a 45-year-old man, the answer is going to be different than if its being asked by a 75-year-old. If a primary care clinician is asking, he/she may be confused about current recommendations regarding screening for prostate cancer. The answer is complicated and fraught with bias. Unfortunately, the controversy over PSA screening for prostate cancer still persists after 40 years of experience.

I practiced urology for 35 years. I started my residency in urology at Oregon Health Science University in 1979, eight to 10 years before urologists began using PSA.

I have witnessed the evolution of prostate cancer screening using PSA. I was there before the controversy started, and Im still here in the middle of the fight. The fight? Yes, the fight. In one corner are the doubters, the non-screeners, physicians who take their cues from the US Preventive Task Forces 2012 Level D recommendation (since revised to Level C in 2018)  we dont need to screen for prostate cancer by doing PSAs on our patients because most prostate cancers are indolent and slow-growing, and men arent going to die from prostate cancer. The treatment (surgery, radiation, hormones) is worse than the disease.

In the other corner are urologists, oncologists, and radiation oncologists who believe that early detection of prostate cancer using PSA as an initial marker is not only possible but also saves lives. More importantly, early detection prevents morbidity from advanced and/or metastatic disease.

In 1980, PSA was still in research labs. By the mid-80s, doctors realized that PSA was a more sensitive test for detecting prostate cancer than acid phosphatase (a blood test). Acid phosphatase was elevated in advanced/metastatic prostate cancer but not as sensitive for prostate cancer as PSA. Prior to PSA, the only way to detect localized prostate cancer was by a digital rectal exam (DRE) or by investigating symptoms of bladder outlet obstruction or symptoms of advanced/metastatic disease.

Before the mid-80s, if a nodule was felt, a blind biopsy using only finger guidance was performed. A positive biopsy, normal acid phos, negative bone and CT scan meant localized prostate cancer. That patient was usually offered surgery (a radical retro-pubic prostatectomy) or external beam radiation therapy. This was rare. From 1979 to 1982, I assisted in two radical prostatectomies. After PSA had been around for 15 years, I was involved in performing two radical prostatectomies a week, roughly 100 a year.

Half of the prostate cancer patients in the early 80s had advanced or metastatic disease. If the patient had locally advanced disease but no metastases (Stage C), he would be treated with radiation. 25% of patients were found to have prostate cancer after a TURP, stage A1 (fewer than 5% of chips +) or A2 (greater than 5% of chips +). At the Portland VA, typically half of our patients on the ward were being treated for metastatic prostate cancer with IV stilphosterol and/or radiation therapy for distant mets, or painful bone mets in danger of pathologic fracture.

What happened over the next four decades with respect to PSA in the US (things are different in other countries) is both phenomenal and tragic. With millions of PSAs and prostate biopsies being done, the incidence of prostate cancer increased. However, the percentage of patients presenting with advanced and metastatic disease fell from 50% to less than 10%. Mortality from prostate cancer declined.

We learned that PSA was an excellent test to assess response to treatment. An undetectable PSA after treatment was indicative of an excellent response to treatment (surgery, radiation, even hormone ablation for the treatment of metastatic disease). A rising PSA after treatment was indicative of recurrence.

We learned about PSA velocity (change in PSA over time), PSA density (PSA/prostate volume), % free PSA, PCA3 (prostate cancer antigen urine test), isoPSA, and recently newer tests like ExoDx (urine biomarker). All of these variations and tests have been helpful in refining the sensitivity and specificity of PSA-based screening. Add to those tools multi-parametric MRI.

Prostate cancer incidence increases 10% each decade. A 50-year-old man has a 50% chance of having prostate cancer in his prostate, a 60-year-old, 60%, etc. Obviously, not all prostate cancers are clinically significant, meaning they are slow-growing, indolent, and will never cause any problems for the duration of that mans life. This is why many doctors will tell patients, You are more likely to die with prostate cancer than from prostate cancer.

This created problems because many clinically insignificant cancers were unnecessarily treated. With overtreatment came significant complications  impotence, incontinence, and post-surgical and radiation complications.

The USPTF issued a Level D recommendation against PSA-based screening (2008 and 2012). The recommendation was based on three studies (PLOC, ERSPC, and Gothenburg). All three studies are flawed for a variety of reasons and were misinterpreted by the USPFT. Not one urologist or oncologist was on the USPTF committee. The USPFT recommendation has faced extensive criticism in the literature. Morbidity from metastatic disease and treatment is not part of their analysis. As a result of the flawed recommendation by the USPTF, there was an increase in advanced/metastatic disease, which prompted a revision of their recommendation to Level C in 2018.

Today, the two camps are still far apart on the early detection of prostate cancer. Like other conflicting beliefs in 2023, this conflict makes no sense and doesnt have to persist. Thousands of men are still presenting with advanced and metastatic prostate cancer. It is estimated that 35,000 men will die of prostate cancer in 2023.

Who are these men? Have they ever had a PSA or digital rectal exam? In the mid-90s, we reviewed 100 consecutive patients who presented with advanced or metastatic prostate cancer. Many had PSAs over 100. We asked, How many had health care insurance during the ten years prior to presentation? 85. We then wondered, How many had a PSA and/or a DRE within ten years of being diagnosed with metastatic/advanced disease? Zero! (0!). And, How many had a documented shared decision-making conversation regarding the potential harms/risks vs benefits of getting a PSA? Again, zero.

The April 2023 AUA Guideline Early Detection of Prostate Cancer: AUA/SUO Guideline (2023) states, Clinicians should engage in shared decision-making (SDM) with people for whom prostate cancer screening would be appropriate and proceed based on a persons values and preferences (Clinical Principle).

From the May 2018 USPTF recommendation: Based on a review of the evidence, the Task Force recommends that men aged 55 to 69 years make an individual decision about whether to be screened after a conversation with their clinician about the potential benefits and harms. For men 70 years and older, the potential benefits do not outweigh the expected harms, and these men should not be routinely screened for prostate cancer.

Most clinicians do not have the time to conduct a robust, factual, non-biased shared decision-making conversation. Moreover, its not the patients responsibility to be informed enough to engage in a conversation about whether or not to have a PSA.

The disconnect between primary care and urology need not persist. Urologists are not interested in performing biopsies on patients with PSAs (and other indicators  MRI Pi-RAD of 3-5, ExoDx > 15, and more) indicative of low-risk, indolent prostate cancer. Urologists are not interested in treating cancers that dont need treatment. In fact, a full third of patients who have positive biopsies are offered active surveillance. Likewise, primary care physicians are not interested in conducting numerous PSAs, which leads to unnecessary biopsies and unnecessary treatment causing impotence, incontinence, and worse, only to benefit a small number of those men.

We know enough about PSA (and DRE) to inform a man of his risk of having clinically significant versus indolent CaP PRIOR to TRUS/bx. Risk calculators are readily available, and a man can then decide, based upon his risk, whether or not to have a biopsy.

If the biopsy is positive, urologists have the necessary information to have a robust SDM conversation about whether or NOT treatment is indicated, based on individual preferences, and what each treatment (potential harms, risks, benefits) entails.

For four decades, urologists have improved the specificity of PSA as an initial early detection tool. The days of a normal PSA being < 4 have long passed. Every man has an individual risk of developing clinically significant and potentially dangerous prostate cancer based on tons of good studies and evidence (mpMRI, enhanced PSA interpretation using % free PSA, PSA density, PSA velocity, isoPSA, urine biomarkers (PCA3, ExoDx), genetic markers, and more! If you want to know your risk, get a PSA and then find someone who can tell you what your risk is.

Stephen Lieberman is a urologist.
NAPA, Calif.Vibratex, the company behind the Magic Wand brand, has been busy fielding questions and taking pre-orders for the brand-new Magic Wand Micro, a 4.5-inch, 3 ounce version of the famous massage wand.

Following its surprise reveal at Julys ANME show in Burbank, the smallest ever Magic Wand has become a popular topic for retailers and distributors alike, the company said. Retailers reacted favorably to the Micros small packaging features a hang tab, making it the first Magic Wand that can hang on slat wall pegs.

The first pocket sized Magic Wand features three speeds and four vibration patterns. Its USB-C rechargeable battery will allow up to three hours of run time on a full charge. Like its larger siblings, the Micro boasts a silicone head and flexible neck that combine to deliver that familiar Magic Wand rumble instead of the buzz one might expect from a vibe of its size. Additionally, the Micro is designed to accept the included wrist strap or lanyard.

Were very excited to introduce the Magic Wand Micro to the market very soon, explained Vibratex CEO, Ken Herskovitz. As of now, all signs indicate well be able to begin shipping in Octoberhopefully in time for holiday shopping!

Like the other wands in the Magic Wand range, the Magic Wand Micro carries an FDA medical device registration, ETL listing, and the brands user-friendly one-year warranty.

Vibratex is now accepting pre-orders for the Magic Wand Micro. Interested retailers should contact their distributor or [email protected] for additional information.
Kampala Central Member of Parliament, Muhammad Nsereko has asked the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to table the bilateral agreement signed between the government of Saudi Arabia and Uganda on the externalization of labour.

He noted that some Ugandans who went to work in Saud Arabia have seen deductions in their salaries by their employers at the request of some labour companies in Uganda.

However, the minister of State for Youth and Children Affairs, Sarah Mateke said that Saudi Arabia wrote to the government, stating that they intend to make deductions from Uganda migrant workers remitted to labour companies but are still in talks over the matter.

Consequently, the Speaker asked the Ministries of Foreign Affairs, and Gender to table the agreement tomorrow.

Can you coordinate with the Ministry of Gender and have that agreement on the floor? We want it tomorrow, Among said.

The Minister for Regional Cooperation, John Mulimba, and Minister of State for Youth and Children Affairs, Sarah Mateke pledged to avail the agreements to parliament this week.

It is very true that the government of Saudi wrote to us telling us that, but as we speak now, we are in negotiations because we gave them our minimum wage, Mateke said.
By AFP

UN cultural agency UNESCO on Monday recommended that tombs of royal traditional leaders in Uganda that were ravaged by fire more than a decade ago should be removed from its list of endangered heritage.

Housed in grass-thatched buildings on a hillside in the capital Kampala, the Tombs of Buganda Kings have been reconstructed with the help of international funding since the 2010 blaze.

The tombs at Kasubi, revered as an important historical and spiritual site for the Baganda people, were declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2001.

UNESCOs recommendations, following a mission to the site in June, will go before the 21 member states of the World Heritage Committee at its meeting in the Saudi capital Riyadh from September 10-25.

The fire destroyed the main tomb building, a circular structure with a domed roof which was built in 1882 as a palace for the Kabakas or kings of Buganda and converted into a royal burial ground two years later.

UNESCO has described the building known as Muzibu-Azaala-Mpanga as an architectural masterpiece.

It has said the removal of the tombs from the endangered list would be a powerful symbol given that 50 percent of sites considered in danger are in Africa.

After the blaze, at least two people were killed when Ugandan security forces quelled riots that erupted as supporters of the Kabaka tried to prevent Ugandas veteran President Yoweri Museveni from visiting the devastated site.

The disaster occurred at a time of strained relations between the government and the Baganda people after a travel ban was imposed on their largely ceremonial monarch in September 2009.

The ban triggered riots around Kampala that left at least 27 people dead.

Last month, thousands of Ugandans joined a ceremony marking the 30th anniversary of the coronation of current Bugandan king Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II, whose ancestors ruled a region that includes Ugandas modern-day capital.

Buganda, one of four ancient kingdoms in the East African country, was first established in the 14th century on the shores of Lake Victoria.

The Baganda make up the largest ethnic grouping in Uganda and their kingdom was granted considerable autonomy after independence from Britain in 1962.

But independence leader Milton Obote went on to outlaw the tribal kingdoms, and forced the Kabaka into exile.

The bush war that brought Obotes rival Museveni to power in 1986 was successful largely due to support from Buganda.
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The Boys & Girls Club of Flagstaff received a generational gift, one that may help them expand to serve more youth within Flagstaff.

Jim and Toni Pugliano, who have lived seasonally in Flagstaff for decades, donated the home they built themselves in the neighborhood of Amberwood to the club earlier this month.

The house, which was appraised at $750,000, has already sold for $760,000, said Mark Cox, the Flagstaff clubs chief executive officer.

And all that will go back into the organization, furthering its efforts to provide after-school and summer programs for school-aged youth.

A donation like this is, to me, a generational gift. We're able to give back to the communities and in a big way, Cox said. Its so great. But its also a testament of their hearts. Like if they're able to give joyously and just give big, it also hopefully is an encouragement and motivation for others in our community to be able to give like they do: freely, joyously, joyfully.

Surrounded by beautiful woodwork reminiscent of a log cabin, Jim and Toni Pugliano are a picturesque couple sitting in the living room of their home they donated.

But they said the decision to donate the house was an easy one.

Both have had a long history of involvement with both the Boys & Girls Club in Flagstaff, as well as the club in Scottsdale.

One thing about this is Boys & Girls Club is a great organization, Jim said. "It does so much for the City of Flagstaff, because it takes those kids and supervises them. When they get out after school, they have a place to go that's safe. I mean, it's tremendous and in todays environment, thats really important."

The donation comes as Jim and Toni said they are preparing to move into a retirement community in Phoenix and will no longer be coming up to live in Flagstaff each summer.

Toni said donating it to the club was the easy choice as they considered what to do with their home.

We came up here at the end of June to see how we felt about staying and continuing to come up or not, and, well, this will be our last summer. And then we just naturally thought of the Boys & Girls Club, Toni said. We have a big family. We raised three kids and we have seven grandchildren and 13 great grandchildren. ... They've had advantages that so many of the kids in this area [dont have] and that's why the club is so important.

Jim said they are hoping the donation will help the club expand in Flagstaff, and inspire and encourage others to donate and support the club.

A second club within Flagstaff is in the cards, according to Cox.

For years, the club has largely been based out of the Cogdill Center in Pine Knoll and Brennan Homes, and Cox said it has expanded in recent years.

The club has added a STEM lab and a teen center, and this year is serving about 150 youth and about 75 teens, he said.

Additionally, Cox said this year it is starting its new school pickup service after grant funding allowed it to purchase three new 15-person vans. That allows the club to pick kids involved in their programs up from school and bring them to the club, and parents can later get them from there.

But the next big step is a second club facility.

We have on our vision board: to build another facility. The bigger the facility, the more reach we have, the more kids that we can serve, the better, he said.

This donation is a real game changer on that end, Cox said, and it is one that is unusual, especially for the club in Flagstaff.

Cox said the vast majority of donors are not residents of Flagstaff, instead residing in the Phoenix area but still donating to support the Flagstaff club.

We don't get a lot of support from the local community in terms of big gifts. Usually, it's folks that are actually in the Valley. The majority of our individual donors, the makeup of that, I would say probably 80% come from everywhere but Flagstaff -- which is crazy, Cox said. They say, Hey, we see that there's a need in Flagstaff, can we redirect dollars from this town back to Flagstaff?' Because there's a huge need for Flagstaff.

Of course, not everyone has a spare house to donate. But Cox says the size of this particular donation shouldnt discourage others who may not have the same level of resources from giving what they can.

I don't want that to deter folks from giving financial gifts. It can be $1. Weve got folks that are reoccurring monthly donors of $10. We have reoccurring monthly donors of $50, Cox said. I just don't want that to scare people who might think, Well, I cant give like that. No, just give however much that you know you can, because thats going to impact the kids in our community and just the community in general.

And he said there are many other ways community members can contribute without giving financially.

Time, talent and energy. So we have events that they can volunteer for. We have mentor programs where folks can come in and teach kids or mentor kids or even do after school homework with them and tutor them, Cox said.
If you ever been tempted to seek remote work either for an opportunity to reduce the time you spend commuting, to live in a more affordable location or to explore what other careers are out there to match your skills set, then this course may be exactly what you need.

Grow Remote Ireland are the national organisation dedicated to promoting remote work as a viable option for employers and employees. They started their mission to make remote work local way back in 2018 and have expanded significantly since then.

The Kilkenny Chapter of Grow Remote was established in 2020 when a small group of local remote workers came together to form the first active community in Kilkenny.

Local Chapter Lead Maria Dollard describes the local chapter as a place where remote workers and remote curious meet

once a month for lunch in Billy Byrnes Pub on John St, last Friday of every month.

We can have a gang of 14 or 4 depending on the time of year and you will always meet a friendly face. says Maria who is only one of a group who share responsibility for organising and promoting Grow Remote Kilkenny to the wider public.

The Chapter is supported by Grow Remote who encourage the local group to come up with ideas for what we need locally and provides funding to help deliver on local objectives.

So far we have held monthly lunch meetups, Walking Tours and a trip through Kilkenny on the River Nore with Cliff Reid to celebrate Culture Night. We thought the boat trip was very symbolic of how we aim to encourage people to see the world of work from a new perspective," she added.

This year GR Kilkenny have worked with Grow Remote Ireland to help organise their very popular course called Remote Work Ready, delivered in partnership with Laois Offaly Education and Training Board.

The purpose of the course is to prepare learners to find decent remote work jobs, demystify terms like digital nomads or remote first and introduce learners to companies like Nearform, Glofox or Zazzle, all of whom are remote employers but names potential employees may not be familiar with.

Chapter Lead Maria is encouraging people to visit the Facebook page Grow Remote Kilkenny Kats and fill out the expression of interest form on the link provided.

Further information will be sent as details of dates, times and structure of the course are finalised.

The course is online but our local chapter will facilitate weekly meet up sessions as part of the course to help people find local support and resources says Maria. We hope to run the course over four ninety minute sessions in November or January depending on numbers and availability of resources," she added.
A new Tesco store is set to open in Ferrybank in South Kilkenny, creating 22 new jobs, as part of a major property investment announced by the retailer.

The investment will be used to open eight new Express stores and carry out significant upgrade projects for 50 other stores.

No further details have been announced about the company's plans for the old mart site in Kilkenny City.

In early August, a spokesperson for Tesco confirmed to Kilkenny Live that the company are 'continuing to work closely with the local council' on the masterplan for the old mart site.

Kilkenny Live have once again reached out to Tesco for comment.

Tesco Ireland Chief Operating Officer, Geoff Byrne, says the strong pipeline of store openings and planned refurbishments spells good news for customers.

"We have an ambitious development strategy for the business and are very excited to be expanding our Tesco Express model," he said.

"Our Tesco Express model is proving very successful in urban settings and reflects evolving consumer demand for greater convenient shopping opportunities in high footfall areas, while our store upgrades will breathe new life into our existing store network."
Classes started Monday for students at Northern Arizona University (NAU), marking the beginning of the 2023-2024 school year.

Students filled campus sidewalks Monday morning while on their way to and from classes and other activities, with others setting up places outside to start their studies.

Though he hadnt been to any classes yet, freshman business major Nicholas Gievici said he was just excited in general about the school year. So far, he said, his favorite part of NAU was the people.

Gianni Casillas, another freshman, was searching for his first class of the day, biology. While the class is a general education requirement, he plans to study dental hygiene, inspired by a few years spent dental assisting.

Close Mark Schuckman, left, and Madison Richter-Egger pose for photos Monday morning on the pedway at Northern Arizona University on the first day of classes for the fall semester. Sarah Schuckman studies at a picnic table outside the Student Union at Northern Arizona University Monday morning on the first day of classes for the fall semester. D. H. Henry, dressed as Louie the Lumberjack, looks to sign up volunteers Monday morning at Northern Arizona University for a program to chop firewood to be delivered to the Navajo Reservation. Students walk to classes Monday morning on the first day of the fall semester. Students walk to classes Monday morning on the Northern Arizona University campus. Northern Arizona University students walk to classes Monday morning on the first day of the fall semester. D. H. Henry, dressed as Louie the Lumberjack, looks to sign up volunteers Monday morning at Northern Arizona University for a program to chop firewood to be delivered to the Navajo Reservation. Gallery: Classes resume at Northern Arizona University as fall semester begins Students returned to the NAU campus in force on Monday, ready for new classes and new experiences. Mark Schuckman, left, and Madison Richter-Egger pose for photos Monday morning on the pedway at Northern Arizona University on the first day of classes for the fall semester. Sarah Schuckman studies at a picnic table outside the Student Union at Northern Arizona University Monday morning on the first day of classes for the fall semester. D. H. Henry, dressed as Louie the Lumberjack, looks to sign up volunteers Monday morning at Northern Arizona University for a program to chop firewood to be delivered to the Navajo Reservation. Students walk to classes Monday morning on the first day of the fall semester. Students walk to classes Monday morning on the Northern Arizona University campus. Northern Arizona University students walk to classes Monday morning on the first day of the fall semester. D. H. Henry, dressed as Louie the Lumberjack, looks to sign up volunteers Monday morning at Northern Arizona University for a program to chop firewood to be delivered to the Navajo Reservation.

He said the year was off to a good start.

Move-in was pretty easy, he said. Its pretty easy to get used to it.

Sophomore Jenna Hamms first class was an ecology lab, which she said she was feeling pretty good about -- although she wasnt sure what it would look like because the associated lecture class was later in the week.

Ecology is one of Hamms requirements for her environmental and sustainability major.

I was kind of undecided coming in and I like nature, I like taking care of the outdoors, so just seeing where it goes, she said.

Her plans for the year include keeping up with classes and arranging events in her role as vice president of the Running Club.

Its been really great so far, she said of her sophomore year. Ive only been here about a week, but its been really fun.

In a convocation speech last week, NAU President Jose Luis Cruz Rivera said "academic momentum" was the university's theme for this school year.

He also highlighted some of the university's efforts and new programs in its previous year, including the Access2Excellence (A2E) initiative, JacksCare 24/7, the Seven Generations Signature Initiative and the opening of its Early Learning and Development Center.

"It's now been nearly 124 years since the school opened its doors to those 23 students," Cruz Rivera said. " ... Today at 28,000 plus, we can surely state that the access mission established during our first presidency has been instrumental in our ability to broaden participation while elevating the excellence of our academic, scholarly and community programs."

On Monday, NAU announced that its incoming class had over 9,250 students (including both graduate and undergraduate), with the largest number of Arizona resident (up 3% from last year), Native American (a 47% increase) and Hispanic/Latine first year students in the school's history.

Almost half of resident students were eligible for A2E, which is beginning its first year and offers full tuition coverage for Arizona residents with a household income of $65,000 or lower, or who are members of Arizona's federally-recognized tribes.

Top majors for new undergraduate students included nursing, psychological sciences, business economics, criminology and criminal justice and biology and biomedical science.

NAU's announcement also noted that the Flagstaff campus had added 300 beds this semester, bringing the total of students living in on-campus housing to almost 50%, which it said brings NAU into the top 1% of universities nationwide by rate of students living on campus.

"The university prioritizes on-campus housing resources to promote students' immersion in campus life and foster a strong and mutually beneficial relationship with NAU's home community in Flagstaff," it said.

Coconino Community College students also started their fall semester on Monday, with a series of welcome events scheduled throughout the week.

Close A group of students cross the street in front of Cline Library Thursday afternoon on the Northern Arizona University campus, one of many large groups of students getting oriented with school in preparation for the 2023-2024 academic year. Thursday marked the beginning of the move-in weekend. Kelly Harris (left) and Sean Harris (middle) help Dylan Elsasser move into his freshman dorm room Thursday afternoon at Northern Arizona University as Elsasser prepares to begin his first year of college. Evan and Robert Blanton push a cart full of dorm room necessities across South Knoles Drive Thursday afternoon on the Northern Arizona University campus during the move-in period, assisting their sister and daughter as she moves into her freshman lodgings. Andy Hornburg throws Frisbee with a friend at one of NAU's quads Thursday afternoon during the move-in period for the upcoming school year. NAU's campus welcomes students and their parents Thursday afternoon as students move back into dorms and prepare to begin the 2023-2024 academic year. A group of friends play a game of volleyball Thursday afternoon at one of NAU's courts during move-in weekend. One parent's vehicle parked in the Knoles parking garage at NAU boasts a message alluding to tuition pricing Thursday afternoon as move-in week continues on campus, making a play on the trend of bachelorette parties and road-trippers advertising their digital cash apps for assistance. The Northern Arizona University campus is packed with students and their parents Thursday afternoon as students move into dorms and prepare to begin the academic year. Roads on NAU's campus are congested with traffic Thursday afternoon as students and their families arrive to move students into dorms. Gallery: College students flock to Northern Arizona University for move-in week Colleges students are flocking to Flagstaff during move-in week. A group of students cross the street in front of Cline Library Thursday afternoon on the Northern Arizona University campus, one of many large groups of students getting oriented with school in preparation for the 2023-2024 academic year. Thursday marked the beginning of the move-in weekend. Kelly Harris (left) and Sean Harris (middle) help Dylan Elsasser move into his freshman dorm room Thursday afternoon at Northern Arizona University as Elsasser prepares to begin his first year of college. Evan and Robert Blanton push a cart full of dorm room necessities across South Knoles Drive Thursday afternoon on the Northern Arizona University campus during the move-in period, assisting their sister and daughter as she moves into her freshman lodgings. Andy Hornburg throws Frisbee with a friend at one of NAU's quads Thursday afternoon during the move-in period for the upcoming school year. NAU's campus welcomes students and their parents Thursday afternoon as students move back into dorms and prepare to begin the 2023-2024 academic year. A group of friends play a game of volleyball Thursday afternoon at one of NAU's courts during move-in weekend. One parent's vehicle parked in the Knoles parking garage at NAU boasts a message alluding to tuition pricing Thursday afternoon as move-in week continues on campus, making a play on the trend of bachelorette parties and road-trippers advertising their digital cash apps for assistance. The Northern Arizona University campus is packed with students and their parents Thursday afternoon as students move into dorms and prepare to begin the academic year. Roads on NAU's campus are congested with traffic Thursday afternoon as students and their families arrive to move students into dorms.
Aug 29 (Reuters) - A white former Morgan Stanley & Co managing director filed a lawsuit on Tuesday claiming he was fired to make way for a less-qualified Black woman as the investment bank sought to diversify its senior ranks.

Kevin Meyersburg in the lawsuit filed in Manhattan federal court says he was pushed out in May despite "an impressive list of achievements" as Morgan Stanley sought to further its diversity and inclusion initiatives.

Meyersburg said he supported those initiatives during the three years that he served as managing director and head of executive services, but earlier this year was replaced in that role by the head of Morgan Stanley's financial wellness team.

"While the Wellness Director may be a talented corporate executive, she simply did not have comparable levels of experience or background ... to justify Morgan Stanleys decision," Meyersburg said in the lawsuit.

A Morgan Stanley spokeswoman did not immediately have comment.

The lawsuit comes as many experts are expecting an uptick in reverse-discrimination lawsuits in the wake of a June U.S. Supreme Court ruling that struck down race-conscious college admissions policies.

The ruling does not apply directly to employers, but opponents of corporate diversity policies have already seized on the decision to support their arguments.

Earlier this month, Gannett Co Inc was hit with a proposed class action claiming it has discriminated against white workers in newsrooms across the country, which quotes from the recent Supreme Court decision. Gannett has denied wrongdoing.

Last year, conservative nonprofit America First Legal filed a complaint against Morgan Stanley with the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission claiming a training and apprenticeship program for Black, Hispanic, Native American and LGBTQ college students violated the federal law banning workplace discrimination.

Morgan Stanley has declined to comment on the complaint.

America First, which was founded by former Trump administration officials, has filed complaints targeting diversity programs at more than a dozen other companies including Starbucks Corp, McDonald's Corp, and Kellogg Co. The EEOC has not said whether it is investigating those complaints.

Meyersburg in Tuesday's lawsuit says that in April, a month before his firing, he was tasked with compiling a list of employees who could be terminated for underperformance. Morgan Stanley rejected his recommendation to fire a woman and two minority employees, according to the lawsuit.

The case is Meyersburg v. Morgan Stanley & Co LLC, U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York, No. 1:23-cv-07638.

For Meyersburg: Louis Pechman of Pechman Law Group

For Morgan Stanley: Not available
Dear EarthTalk: What exactly is climate migration and is it already happening?

-- B.T., via email

As discussions of the climate crisis begin to shift from future tense to present, "climate migration" has become a growing concern. But what is it? The question is stickier than one might think. By its simplest definition, the phrase refers to the voluntary or involuntary movement of people from one place to another due to adverse ecological conditions, usually caused by global warming. Conditions can include natural disasters, gradual desertification, rising sea levels or crop-destroying insect migration, to name a few.

And therein lies the stickiness. For one, how can we be certain that adverse environmental conditions have been caused by climate change? To be certain, we would have to refer to the relatively new science of extreme event attribution, which is often inconclusive. Then, to call someone a "climate migrant," the climatic conditions would have to be the principal motivation for their upheaval. Most often, it is a mixture of things that cause a person to pull up roots and move, and environmental factors are hard to separate from the rest: Climate change can also increase poverty, crime and political instability.

Another legally important issue is the term "migrant." If the new turbulence of the environment is what forces people to move, wouldnt it be best to call them climate "refugees?" That way the upheaved population would have greater protection, like access to legal services and planned relocation, although at the moment, the Refugee Act of 1951 does not cover climate displacement. The importance of definition and terminology is pivotal when it comes to the law, as well as recognition from host countries. Calling them refugees instead of migrants will, as the Council on Foreign Relations has said, also be a signal from wealthier countries, which are most responsible for planet-warming greenhouse gas emissions, that there is a global responsibility to help those harmed by climate change.

And the situation could hardly be more urgent. The UN High Commissioner for Refugees has determined that natural disasters alone force an annual average of 21.5 million people from their homes across the globe. In one study conducted by The New York Times, ProPublica and the Pulitzer Center, an extreme scenario could see more than 30 million migrants [...] head toward the U.S. border over the course of the next 30 years. Climate displacement has begun, and will only increase with the coming years.

The statistics are dire, and the consequences potentially catastrophic, but host countries have the opportunity to twist the best out of a bad situation. Climate displacement could fix economic problems associated with aging populations, and fill holes in the job market. Gaia Vince of The Guardian predicts that cities from Munich to Buffalo will begin competing with each other to attract migrants.

So, yes, climate migration is happening now, and will increase with the warming and ecological disasters coming our way. Legal protection and clearer definitions are needed, but it's not all gloom. Climate migrants dont only spell disaster, they also spell opportunity for those countries wise enough to see it.
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(Kitco News) - Rare earth producer Lynas (ASX: LYC) (OTC: LYSDY) today announced "strong" operational performance for the full year ending 30 June 2023 (FY23) with total REO production of 16,780t (FY22: 15,970t) and NdPr production of 6,142t (FY22: 5,880t).

The company said that Mt Weld delivered record concentrate production in FY23 - sufficient to feed the Lynas Malaysia plant and build inventory for the new Kalgoorlie rare earths processing facility, which is preparing for first production.

Lynas added that its Malaysia plant delivered record NdPr production in Q3 and Q4 of FY23, while early FY23 production was limited by significant water supply issues.

The company also reported FY23 revenue of $739.3 million (FY22: $920 million), EBITDA of $377.7 million (FY22: $601.2 million), and net profit after tax of $310.7 million (FY22: $540.8 million), as average selling price per kg REO declined from $60.3/kg in FY22 to $46.2/kg in FY23.

Commenting on the results, CEO and Managing Director Amanda Lacaze said, FY23 was another very productive year for Lynas. Operational performance was particularly strong with record concentrate production and record NdPr production achieved in the 2nd half.

Revenue of $739.3 million remained strong. EBITDA, at $377.7 million was 51% of revenue with NPAT at 42% of revenue. Whilst strong, these results were lower than those in FY22 when market prices were at record highs.

Over the past 2 years, we have embarked on an ambitious expansion programme including the construction of the new Kalgoorlie rare earths processing facility, the construction of new facilities in Kuantan to receive mixed rare earth carbonate feedstock from Kalgoorlie and a major upgrade to Mt Weld including exploration and capacity expansion projects, she added.

Ms Lacaze also pointed out that Lynas remains confident that the rare earths market will continue to grow in value and demand, adding that the companys extensive capital investment programme will support capacity growth to meet that demand.

Lynas Rare Earths is the world's only significant producer of separated rare earth materials outside of China. The company's Mt Weld mine in Western Australia is acknowledged as one of the world's premier rare earths deposits.

Lynas also operates the world's largest single rare earths processing plant in Malaysia where it produces high-quality separated rare earth materials for export to manufacturing markets in Asia, Europe and the United States.
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(Kitco News) - Russias Polyus, the worlds fifth largest gold producer, announced today that its total gold output increased 36% and amounted to 1,448 thousand ounces in H1 2023 compared to 1,068 thousand ounces in H1 2022.

The company said this growth was driven by higher grades in ore mined at Olimpiada as Polyus conducted mining activities at high-grade areas of the Vostochny pit as well as an increase in refined gold production at Blagodatnoye, driven by higher head grades.

The groups total cash costs (TCC) for the first half of 2023 decreased 8% year-on-year to $400 per ounce compared to $435 per ounce in the first half of 2022, mainly due to higher head grades at Olimpiada and Blagodatnoye as well as the resumption of sales of antimony-rich flotation concentrate.

The companys revenue for the reporting period increased 29% year-on-year and amounted to $2,386 million, primarily due to an increase in gold sales volumes and a higher average realized refined gold price compared to the first half of 2022.

Adjusted EBITDA for the reporting period amounted to $1,687 million, up 37% compared to $1,229 million in the first half of 2022, driven by growth in gold sales volumes and lower TCC on a per ounce basis during the first half of 2023.

Polyus also reported profit for the period of $558 million (H1 2022: profit of $1,376 million) and adjusted net profit of $1,053 million (H1 2022: adjusted net profit of $792 million), while net cash flow from operations increased 52% to $1,068 million.

The company reiterated its production guidance for 2023 within the range of 2.8  2.9 million ounces. However, Polyus now expects total cash costs for the full year of 2023 to stay within the range of $475-$525 per ounce, compared to the previous estimate of $500-$550 per ounce.

Polyus is the largest gold producer in Russia and a top 5 gold producer globally with one of the lowest cost profiles. The company also holds the worlds largest gold reserves with 97 million ounces of proven and probable gold reserves underpinning its strong growth profile.

The companys principal operations are located in Krasnoyarsk Territory, Irkutsk Region, Magadan Region and the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia) and include 5 operating mines, alluvial operations and several advanced development projects.
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(Kitco News) - The integration of cryptocurrencies with X, formerly known as Twitter, is one step closer to becoming a reality as the popular social media platform has received a currency transmitter license in the state of Rhode Island.

According to data provided by NMLS Consumer Access, X was approved for the Rhode Island Currency Transmitter License on Monday, which allows the platform to provide virtual asset-related services on behalf of its users.

Approval for the license means X can now store, transfer, and exchange digital assets for its growing user base, and allows the platform to facilitate cryptocurrency trading activities within the state.

The Rhode Island Department of Business Regulation requires any person or entity  including cryptocurrency wallets, exchanges, and payment processors  that engages in the management of digital currency or conducts transactions involving digital currencies on behalf of other users to first obtain a currency transfer license.

X owner Elon Musk has long made it clear that he wants to transform the social media platform into an everything app similar to Chinas WeChat platform, and securing money transmitter licenses is a vital piece in making that goal a reality.

Documents filed in July show that Twitter Payments LLC  the social media company's payments subsidiary  was granted a money transmitter license in New Hampshire on June 29, in Michigan on July 3, and received a Sale of Checks and Money Transmitter License from Missouri on July 3.

The platform has reportedly applied for money transmitter licenses in all 50 states and, at this point, received equivalent licenses in Arizona, Georgia, Maryland, Michigan, Missouri, New Hampshire, and now, Rhode Island.

X also filed registration paperwork with the Treasury Department's Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) in November that would allow the platform to process payments.

Musk regularly tweets about Dogecoin (DOGE), which has led to intense speculation that the popular dog-themed meme coin could be one of the first cryptos added on X once a cryptocurrency integration occurs, but at this point, nothing has been made official by the platform.

Twitter previously partnered with Strike, a popular Bitcoin payment application, to allow users to send and receive Bitcoin tips. The platform has also taken steps to support the inclusion of Bitcoin and Ethereum addresses within user profiles and allows users to use non-fungible tokens (NFTs) as their profile picture.
(Baonghean.vn) - On the morning of August 29, in Hanoi, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh and his Singaporean counterpart Lee Hsien Loong attended the conference to promote the implementation of Vietnam-Singapore investment cooperation projects.

The conference was organized by the Ministry of Planning and Investment, the Government Office, the Embassy of the Republic of Singapore in Vietnam with the coordination of the Vietnam-Singapore Industrial Park Joint Venture Company (VSIP).

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh and Singaporean Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong attend the conference aimed at speeding up the implementation of Vietnam-Singapore investment cooperation projects. Photo: Nam An

The conference was also attended by the spouses of the two Prime Ministers and more than 500 delegates who are leaders of ministries, sectors, provinces, cities and more than 150 businesses of the two countries Vietnam and Singapore. The leaders of Nghe An province who attended the conference included: Mr. Thai Thanh Quy - Member of the Party Central Committee, Secretary of the Provincial Party Committee, Chairman of the Provincial People's Council, Head of the Provincial Delegation to the National Assembly; Mr. Nguyen Duc Trung - Deputy Secretary of the Provincial Party Committee, Chairman of the Provincial People's Committee.

An overall view of the Conference to promote the implementation of Vietnam-Singapore investment cooperation projects. Photo: Nam An

As part of the conference agenda, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, Singaporean Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong and the delegates also carried out the groundbreaking ceremony for new projects by the Vietnam-Singapore Industrial Parks (VSIP). These projects include: VSIP Nghe An 2, VSIP Can Tho, and VSIP Bac Ninh 2.

In Nghe An province, there are currently 7 active Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) projects invested by Singaporean businesses, with a total registered capital of over USD 486.41 million.

Singaporean Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong delivers a speech at the conference to promote the implementation of Vietnam-Singapore investment cooperation projects. Photo: Nam An

The project by VSIP Nghe An Ltd. is among them. VSIP is a real estate development model for industrial parks, urban areas, and services established through a joint venture between Sembcorp Group (Singapore) and Becamex IDC Corporation (Binh Duong province).

Currently, the Industrial Park project of VSIP Nghe An 1 has become a driving force in the socio-economic development of Nghe An province, with an occupancy rate of 88%.

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh delivers a speech at the conference to promote the implementation of Vietnam-Singapore investment cooperation projects. Photo: Nam An

The VSIP Nghe An 2 project in Tho Loc Industrial Park covers an area of 500 hectares across the communes of Dien Tho, Dien Phu, and Dien Loc (Dien Chau district), located in the Southeast Economic Zone of Nghe An province. The project's operational duration is 50 years from February 8th, 2023. This project focuses on constructing industrial parks, service and urban areas that incorporate green, smart and sustainable development elements. The project was granted an investment certificate in March 2023 and is expected to be a driving force in attracting investment to Nghe An.

Secretary of the Provincial Party Committee of Nghe An, Mr. Thai Thanh Quy, attends the conference to promote the implementation of Vietnam-Singapore investment cooperation projects. Photo source: Chinhphu.vn

The total investment capital for VSIP Nghe An 1 and VSIP Nghe An 2 is USD 445 million. As of August 2023, it has attracted 42 investment projects with a total investment capital of USD 963 million; it is estimated to generate employment for over 40,000 local workers.

Among these, 25 foreign investors (FDI) from countries and territories such as Japan, South Korea, Singapore, China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, and Sweden have invested in VSIP Nghe An.

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, Singaporean Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong, and leaders from various ministries and sectors kickstart the VSIP Nghe An 2, VSIP Can Tho, and VSIP Bac Ninh 2 projects. The provincial leaders of Nghe An province attending the ceremony include Secretary of the Provincial Party Committee Thai Thanh Quy and Chairman of the Provincial People's Committee Nguyen Duc Trung. Photo: Nam An

Major corporations in the global electronic supply chain have also invested hundreds of millions of USD in this industrial park, such as Luxshare - ICT Group (investing in 4 projects with a total registered capital of USD 359 million) and Everwin Group (investing in 1 project with a total capital of USD 200 million, with plans to increase the capital to USD 400 million). Currently, there are more than 13,500 workers employed at VSIP Nghe An Industrial Park.
Xem them

(Construction) - On October 3, 2023, in Tokyo - Capital of Japan, Construction Newspaper of Vietnam, represented by Mr. Nguyen Anh Dung - Editor-in-Chief continued to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with The Daily Engineering and Construction News of Japan (DECN) with the witness of the MLIT and many businesses in Japan.

...

Tin bai cuoi cung

Khong con du lieu e load
Weather Alert

...FREEZE WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 10 AM CDT THIS MORNING... * WHAT...Sub-freezing temperatures as low as 27. * WHERE...Portions of south central, southwest, and west central Illinois. Portions of central, east central, northeast, and southeast Missouri. * WHEN...Until 10 AM CDT this morning. * IMPACTS...Frost and freeze conditions could kill crops, other sensitive vegetation and possibly damage unprotected outdoor plumbing. PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS... Take steps now to protect tender plants from the cold. &&
Idalia now Category 2 hurricane as it lashes the Florida coast and officials warn of potential for death and catastrophic devastation
Visa Inc. is a US-based multinational financial services company formed from a consortium of US banks. It is the 2nd largest payment processor globally and the leading payment processor outside China. Its market share in 2021 was roughly 50% of global transaction volume x-China. Transactions are processed in 1 of 4 hardened data centers in key regions worldwide. The data centers are hardened against internal and external attacks, both physical and digital, and can operate independently of each, providing ample redundancy for the system. As of 2022, the company can process more than 30,000 transactions per second, making it the most viable solution for most use-case scenarios.

Visa Inc. was founded in 1958 by Bank of America as the BankAmericard Credit Card network. Not only is the card itself of historical importance, but how it was launched is also. Bank of America launched the program with the first mass mailing of unsolicited credit cards, changing the nature of the entire consumer credit market. At the time, consumers often had several credit accounts with local merchants, which was cumbersome for financial record-keeping; by introducing a consumer-friendly credit card, Bank of America unified merchant credit accounts into one billing statement.

The BankAmericard network was so popular, and to compete again with the then-number 1 MasterCard, Bank of America opened use to other financial institutions. By 1970 Bank of America had relinquished direct control of the institution allowing a consortium of financial institutions to operate the company. It was rebranded as Visa in 1976 and grew to become the dominant payment processing network in the decades since.

Visa Inc is not a card issuer; it does not extend credit to consumers and does not set rates or fees for consumers. It is in business to provide electronic funds transfers services or EFT to financial institutions, banks, government and businesses. Entities needing financial payment processing infrastructure can enroll in VisaNet and issue Visa-branded cards and services to their clients and customers.

Visa operated as four separate entities serving different regions of the globe until restructuring in 2006. The restructuring resulted in the merger of 3 of the four assets into Visa Inc, leaving Visa Europe as a stand-alone entity. The new Visa Inc held its IPO in 2007, selling half of its shares, raising nearly $18 billion or almost double the targeted amount. Visa Europe was later acquired by Visa Inc, forming the unified company traded today.

Visa employs more than 26,500 individuals globally and brought in roughly $15 billion in revenue for fiscal 2021. The company has more than 3.9 billion active cards out globally; it has processed more than 255 billion transactions and is used by more than 80 million merchant locations. As a forward-thinking company, Visa is also engaged to some degree with the cryptocurrency markets and has partnerships with Coinbase and Crypto.com, among others.
Boston Properties (NYSE:BXP) pays an annual dividend of $3.92 per share and currently has a dividend yield of 7.48%. BXP has a dividend yield higher than 75% of all dividend-paying stocks, making it a leading dividend payer. The dividend payout ratio is 92.67%. Payout ratios above 75% are not desirable because they may not be sustainable. Based on earnings estimates, BXP will have a dividend payout ratio of 53.26% next year. This indicates that the company will be able to sustain or increase its dividend.

Read our dividend analysis for BXP.
Eldorado Gold Corporation, together with its subsidiaries, engages in the mining, exploration, development, and sale of mineral products primarily in Turkey, Canada, Greece, and Romania. The company primarily produces gold, as well as silver, lead, and zinc. It holds a 100% interest in the Kisladag and Efemcukuru gold mines located in western Turkey; Lamaque gold mines located in Canada; and Olympias, Stratoni, Skouries, Perama Hill, and Sapes gold mines located in Greece, as well as the 80.5% interest in Certej development projects located in Romania. The company was formerly known as Eldorado Corporation Ltd. and changed its name to Eldorado Gold Corporation in April 1996. Eldorado Gold Corporation was incorporated in 1996 and is headquartered in Vancouver, Canada.
Editors note: This is the third of a three-part series about ideological conflicts with libraries across Montana. Part one was published Sunday and part two was published Monday.

Over the past four months, Mary James has logged a 26% overall drop in check-out rates at the George McCone Memorial County Library in Circle, south of Wolf Point. Part of that, the 20-year bookseller turned library director speculated, could be due to the fact that the towns been tearing up all the water mains, making access to the library building tricky. But, James added, check-outs of kids fiction books are up 33%. And kids nonfiction? Up a whopping 62%.

James has no doubt that those increases are a result of an ongoing reorganization and refurbishment project in the childrens section, made possible by grant funding from the American Library Association. During her four-year tenure as director, James said, the library has received $16,000 from the ALA and its frequent collaborator, the Association of Small and Rural Libraries.

The funding has allowed James to purchase civics books and music resources, and will help her obtain new materials like graphic novels and audiobooks that can meet the needs of kids with reading disabilities. She added that she plans to visit local classrooms this fall and ask students for input on how to spend whatever funds remain.

Membership in the ALA has become a contentious issue across the country as some conservative library users have objected to some materials, including books and activities related to LGBTQ issues.

The conflict escalated last month when Montana State Library commissioner Tom Burnett made a motion to withdraw the state librarys membership in the national association, citing a recently resurfaced 2022 tweet by ALA President Emily Drabinski describing herself as a Marxist lesbian. Burnett argued that aligning the state with an organization headed by a self-proclaimed Marxist violated his oath to uphold the Montana Constitution. The motion passed 5-1.

While in Circle, James said shell maintain an ALA membership for her own library (the typical annual fee for an individual librarians membership is $155), the loss of such opportunities for small non-member libraries under the auspices of the state librarys membership was a top concern cited by librarians ahead of the commissions withdrawal vote last month. But Montana Library Association President Kelly Reisig and others stressed to commissioners that the benefits of ALA membership are not solely financial, pointing to the organizations congressional lobbying efforts on behalf of libraries and its ability to provide legally vetted guidance on a host of emerging issues, such as serving patrons with disabilities and managing appeals to remove certain titles. James said the states withdrawal from the ALA creates an unnecessary difficulty for smaller libraries in Montana.

Its going to take effort and organization to maintain the same level of service, James said. The state got I dont know how many millions of dollars in grants from ALA just to help fund programs at the state level. Thats not even, I dont think, considering the special grants that people like me have applied for and got.

In the last two years alone, 23 Montana libraries have collectively received nearly a quarter-million dollars in grants from the ALA.

Montana State Librarian Jennie Stapp told MTFP that, from a practical standpoint, access to such resources wont vanish. State and local library staff are still free to attend ALA conferences and webinars, and Stapp has already fielded calls from librarians outside of Montana inquiring about alternatives to the ALA, in case their states follow Montanas lead. One option shes referred them to is the Association of Small and Rural Libraries, itself an affiliate of the ALA. For in-state librarians, state library staff continue to provide consultation to assist community librarians with training and strategic planning.

In short, Stapp said she believes the tight-knit nature and shared values of the broader library community mean the ALA will continue to have a presence in Montana, even in the absence of state membership.

Where libraries in Montana and the American Library Association can find common ground is in that fundamental core value of intellectual freedom, Stapp said. And if we can speak about that as the primary function of the library, then I do think there is a role for ALA to play.

Only one of the Montana State Library Commissions seven members responded to MTFPs requests for comment: state Superintendent Elsie Arntzen. In an interview, Arntzen reiterated her stance that withdrawing from the ALA is in line with her sworn oath to uphold the Montana Constitution. She equated the situation to the firestorm that engulfed the National School Boards Association last year. In requesting federal assistance to address rising threats to educators over pandemic mask mandates, LGBTQ-themed materials and critical race theory, the organization likened certain activists to domestic terrorists, prompting Arntzen to publicly call for the Montana School Boards Association to sever ties with the national organization, which it did.

If these associations that Montana has depended upon for so long start polarizing and being political, then its time for Montana to protect, defend [and] support Montana as the Constitution states, Arntzen said. And I did that in my vote.

Arntzen noted that during the commissions deliberations last month, she suggested revisiting the states ALA membership after President Drabinskis term expires in July 2024. Asked whether Drabinskis LGBTQ identity had any bearing on her vote to withdraw from the ALA, Arntzen said her decision was based fully on the Marxist portion of Drabinskis tweet.

We are a republic, Arntzen said. We are not led by Marxist views.

Beckstrom and other critics of the commissions decision have repeatedly argued that the ALA presidency  a one-year elected position  is largely ceremonial, that nothing in Drabinskis tweet violated any state or federal law, and that her influence over ALAs mission and its policies is limited at best. Beckstrom himself is one of 186 members of the organizations elected council, which serves as the ALAs governing body and determines its policies. The ALA is also led by a 12-member executive board whose members hail from libraries of various sizes throughout the country.

As a member of that governance structure, Beckstrom insists that the ALA is not actively pushing any LGBTQ agenda. What the organization and librarians across the country have been doing, he said, is promoting books that help people understand and learn about the LGBTQ community, its history and its experiences  echoing a broad belief among librarians, as summed up by Stapp, that libraries should be a mirror of their respective communities.

Thats pushing a human right to have our beliefs and our feelings reflected in who we are and be able to research them and get information about them, Lewis and Clark County Public Librarys Matt Beckstrom said. Its not like the ALAs sitting there and their mission statement is, Goal No. 1: Make America gay. Thats not what theyre doing. Theyre just trying to give people the right to do what they do with the information they want.

Nearly every source MTFP interviewed indicated that communication will be key in resolving the disputes that fueled Montanas separation from a long-standing source of support. But passions run deep on both sides of the divide, and in the wake of Montanas withdrawal from the ALA, library leaders around the state are concerned about their colleagues in smaller communities feeling increasingly isolated. At the Bozeman Public Library, Gregory is trying to remain hopeful about her staffs ability to maintain a community dialogue thats so far kept their library free from significant controversy, even as she accepts the reality of what fellow librarians elsewhere are grappling with.

Theres a lot of fear out there. Fear of being overlooked, fear of not being heard, she said. One of the things that were trying to do here in Bozeman is make sure that when people have concerns, we take the time to listen to them and try to help them understand, We hear you, and then put a lot of emphasis on the phrase fair and balanced. Balanced means were going to have material in this library, all different kinds of opinions, and therell be something here that offends everybody. But thats OK because we dont tell people what to think or believe. They can do that for themselves.

This story was originally published by Montana Free Press at montanafreepress.org.
Molina Healthcare, Inc. (NYSE:MOH) announced its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, October, 25th. The company reported $5.05 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $4.87 by $0.18. The business earned $8.55 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts' expectations of $8.24 billion. Molina Healthcare had a trailing twelve-month return on equity of 34.85% and a net margin of 2.80%. The firm's revenue was up 7.8% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter last year, the firm earned $4.36 EPS.
The following companies are subsidiares of Illinois Tool Works: A V Co 1 Limited, A V Co 2 Limited, A V Co 3 Limited, ACCU-LUBE Manufacturing GmbH - Schmiermittel und -gerate -, AIP/BI Holdings Inc., Accessories Marketing Holding Corp., Advanced Molding Company Inc., Allen France SAS, Alpine Engineered Products, Alpine Systems Corporation, Anaerobicos S.r.l., AppliChem GmbH, Avery Berkel France, Avery India Limited, Avery Malaysia Sdn Bhd, Avery Weigh Tronix, Avery Weigh-Tronix Finance Limited, Avery Weigh-Tronix International Limited, Avery Weigh-Tronix LLC, Avery Weigh-Tronix Limited, Avery Weigh-Tronix Properties Limited, Avery Weigh-Tronix Suzhou Weighing Technology Co. Ltd., Azon Limited, B.C. Immo, Beijing Miller Electric Manufacturing Co. Ltd., Berkel Ireland Limited, Berrington UK, Brapenta Eletronica Ltda., Brooks Instrument B.V., Brooks Instrument GmbH, Brooks Instrument KFT, Brooks Instrument Korea Ltd., Brooks Instrument LLC, Brooks Instrument Shanghai Co. Ltd, Buell Industries Inc., CCI Realty Company, CFC Europe GmbH, CS Australia Pty Limited, CS Mexico Holding Company S DE RL DE CV, Calvia Spolka z Ograniczona Odpowiedzialnosci, Capital Ventures Australasia S.a r.l, Capmax Logistica S.A. de C.V., Celeste Industries Corporation, Coeur, Coeur Asia Limited, Coeur Holding Company, Coeur Inc., Coeur Shanghai Medical Appliance Trading Co. Ltd, Compagnie Hobart, Compagnie de Materiel et d'Equipements Techniques-Comet, Constructions Isothermiques Bontami C.I.B., Crane Carrier Company, Denison Mayes Group Limited, Despatch Industries, Diagraph Corporation Sdn. Bhd, Diagraph ITW Mexico S. de R.L. De C.V., Diagraph Mexico S.A. DE C.V., Dongguan Ark-Les Electric Components Co. Ltd., Dongguan CK Branding Co. Ltd., Duo Fast de Espana S.A.U., Duo-Fast Korea Co. Ltd., Duo-Fast LLC, E.C.S. d.o.o., E2M Production B.V.., E2M Technologies B.V.., E2M Technologies Inc.., ECS Cable Protection Sp. Zoo, ELRO Grosskuchen GmbH, ELRO Holding AG, ELRO-WERKE AG, Elro Group, Eltex-Elektrostatik-Gesellschaft mit beschrankter Haftung, Envases Multipac S.A. de C.V., Eurotec Srl, Exhibit 21, FEG Investments L.L.C., Filtertek De Mexico Holding Inc., Filtertek De Mexico S.A. de C.V., Filtertek SAS, GC Financement SA, Gamko B.V., Gun Hwa Platech Taicang Co. Ltd., HOBART Gesellschaft mit beschrankter Haftung, Hartness International, Hobart Andina S.A.S., Hobart Belgium B.V., Hobart Brothers International Chile Limitada, Hobart Brothers LLC, Hobart Dayton Mexicana S. de R.L. de C.V., Hobart Food Equipment Co. Ltd., Hobart International Singapore Pte. Ltd., Hobart Japan K.K., Hobart Korea LLC, Hobart LLC, Hobart Nederland B.V., Hobart Sales & Service Inc., Hobart Scandinavia ApS, Hobart Techniek B.V., Horis, ILC Investments Holdings Inc., ITW AEP LLC, ITW AOC LLC, ITW Aircraft Investments Inc., ITW Ampang Industries Philippines Inc., ITW Appliance Components EOOD, ITW Appliance Components S.A. de C.V., ITW Appliance Components S.r.l.a, ITW Appliance Components d.o.o., ITW Australia Holdings Pty Ltd, ITW Australia Property Holdings Pty Ltd., ITW Australia Pty Ltd, ITW Automotive Components Chongqing Co. Ltd., ITW Automotive Components Langfang Co. Ltd., ITW Automotive Japan K.K., ITW Automotive Korea LLC, ITW Automotive Parts Shanghai Co. Ltd, ITW Automotive Products GmbH, ITW Automotive Products Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., ITW Bailly Comte, ITW Befestigungssysteme GmbH, ITW Belgium B.V., ITW Brazilian Nominee L.L.C., ITW Building Components Group Inc., ITW CER, ITW CP Distribution Center Holland BV, ITW CS UK Ltd., ITW Canada Inc., ITW Celeste Inc., ITW Chemical Products Ltda, ITW Chemical Products Scandinavia ApS, ITW China Investment Company Limited, ITW Colombia S.A.S., ITW Construction Products AB, ITW Construction Products AS, ITW Construction Products ApS, ITW Construction Products CZ s.r.o., ITW Construction Products Italy Srl, ITW Construction Products OU, ITW Construction Products OY, ITW Construction Products Shanghai Co. Ltd., ITW Construction Products Singapore Pte. Ltd., ITW Construction Services Manila Inc., ITW Contamination Control B.V., ITW Contamination Control Wujiang Co. Ltd., ITW Covid Security Group Inc., ITW DS Investments Inc., ITW DelFast do Brasil Ltda., ITW Denmark ApS, ITW Deutschland GmbH, ITW Diagraph GmbH, ITW Dynatec, ITW Dynatec Adhesive Equipment Suzhou Co. Ltd., ITW Dynatec GmbH, ITW Dynatec Kabushiki Kaisha, ITW EAE B.V., ITW EAE Mexico S de RL de CV, ITW EF&C France SAS, ITW EF&C Selb GmbH, ITW EU Holdings Ltd., ITW Electronic Business Asia Co. Limited, ITW Electronic Components/Products Shanghai Co. Ltd., ITW Electronics Suzhou Co. Ltd., ITW Epsilon Sarl, ITW Espana S.L., ITW European Finance Co. Ltd., ITW European Finance II Co. Ltd., ITW European Finance III Co. Ltd., ITW FEG Hong Kong Limited, ITW FEG do Brasil Industria e Comercio Ltda., ITW Fastener Products GmbH, ITW Fluids and Hygiene Solutions Ltda., ITW Food Equipment Group LLC, ITW GH LLC, ITW GSE ApS, ITW GSE Inc., ITW Gamma Sarl, ITW German Management LLC, ITW Global Investments Holdings LLC, ITW Global Investments Holdings Y Compania Sociedad en Comandita por Acciones, ITW Global Investments Inc., ITW Global Tire Repair Europe GmbH, ITW Global Tire Repair Inc., ITW Global Tire Repair Japan K.K., ITW Graphics Asia Limited, ITW Graphics Thailand Ltd., ITW Great Britain Investment & Licensing Holding Company, ITW Group France Luxembourg S.ar.l., ITW HLP Thailand Co. Ltd., ITW Holding Quimica B.C. S.L. Sole Shareholder Company, ITW Holdings Australia L.P., ITW Holdings I Limited, ITW Holdings II Limited, ITW Holdings III Limited, ITW Holdings IV Limited, ITW Holdings IX Limited, ITW Holdings Inc., ITW Holdings V Limited, ITW Holdings VI Limited, ITW Holdings VII Limited, ITW Holdings VIII Limited, ITW Holdings X Limited, ITW Holdings XI Limited, ITW ILC Holdings I Inc., ITW IPG Investments LLC, ITW Imaden Industria e Comercio Ltda., ITW India Private Limited, ITW International Holdings LLC, ITW Invest Holding GmbH, ITW Ireland Holdings Unlimited Company, ITW Ireland Unlimited Company, ITW Italy Holding Srl, ITW Japan Ltd., ITW Korea LLC, ITW LLC & Co. KG, ITW Limited, ITW Lys Fusion S.r.l., ITW Materials Technology Shanghai Co. Ltd., ITW Meritex Sdn. Bhd., ITW Metal Fasteners S.L., ITW Mexico Holding Company S. De R.L. de C.V., ITW Mexico Holdings LLC, ITW Morlock GmbH, ITW Mortgage Investments II Inc., ITW Mortgage Investments III Inc., ITW Mortgage Investments IV Inc., ITW Netherlands Administration BV, ITW Netherlands Beta B.V., ITW Netherlands Finance Alpha BV, ITW New Universal LLC, ITW New Zealand, ITW Ningbo Components & Fastenings Systems Co. Ltd., ITW Novadan Sp. Z.o.o., ITW PPF Brasil Adesivos Ltda., ITW Packaging Technology China Co. Ltd., ITW Participations S.a r.l., ITW Pension Funds Trustee Company, ITW Performance Polymers & Fluids Japan Co. Ltd., ITW Performance Polymers & Fluids Korea Limited, ITW Performance Polymers & Fluids OOO, ITW Performance Polymers ApS, ITW Performance Polymers Wujiang Co. Ltd., ITW Performance Polymers and Fluids Group FZE, ITW Peru S.A.C., ITW Poly Mex S. de R.L. de C.V., ITW Polymers Sealants North America Inc., ITW Pronovia s.r.o., ITW Pte. Ltd., ITW Qufu Automotive Cooling Systems Co. Ltd., ITW Real Estate Germany GmbH, ITW Residuals III L.L.C., ITW Residuals IV L.L.C., ITW Rivex, ITW SMPI, ITW SPG Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., ITW Simco-Ion Shenzhen Co. Ltd., ITW Slovakia s.r.o., ITW Spain Holdings S.L., ITW Specialty Film LLC, ITW Specialty Films France, ITW Specialty Materials Suzhou Co. Ltd., ITW Sverige AB, ITW Sweden Holding AB, ITW Test & Measurement Equipment Shanghai Co. Ltd, ITW Test & Measurement GmbH, ITW Test and Measurement Italia Srl, ITW Test and Measurement Services Industry and Trade Ltd., ITW Texwipe Philippines Inc., ITW Thermal Films Shanghai Co. Ltd., ITW UK, ITW UK Finance Beta Limited, ITW UK Finance Delta Limited, ITW UK Finance Gamma Limited, ITW UK Finance Limited, ITW UK Finance Zeta Ltd., ITW UK II Limited, ITW Universal II LLC, ITW Welding, ITW Welding AB, ITW Welding GmbH, ITW Welding Products B.V., ITW Welding Products Group FZE, ITW Welding Products Group S. DE R.L. De C.V., ITW Welding Products Italy Srl, ITW Welding Products Limited Liability Company, ITW Welding Produtos Para Solgdagem Ltda., ITW Welding Singapore Pte. Ltd., ITW de France, ITW do Brasil Industrial e Comercial Ltda., Illinois Tool Works Chile Limitada, Illinois Tool Works ITW Nederland B.V., Illinois Tool Works Inc., Impar Comercio E Representacoes Ltda., Industrie Plastic Elsasser GmbH, Inmobiliaria Cit. S.A. de C.F., Innova Temperlite Servicios S.A. de C.V., Innovacion y Transformacion Automotriz S.A. de C.V., Instron Brasil Equipamentos Cientificos Ltda., Instron Foreign Sales Corp. Limited, Instron France S.A.S., Instron GmbH, Instron Japan Company Ltd., Instron Korea LLC, Instron Shanghai Ltd., Instron Thailand Limited, International Leasing Company LLC, Isolenge - ITW Sistemas de Isolamento Termico Ltda., Itw Spraytec, KCPL Mauritius Holdings, Kester, Kleinmann GmbH, Krafft S.L., Loma Systems, Loma Systems BV, Loma Systems Canada Inc., Loma Systems sro, Lombard Pressings Limited, Lumex Inc., Lys Fusion Poland Sp. z.o.o., M&C Specialties Co., MAGNAFLUX GmbH, MEHB Holdings Limited, MGHG Property LLC, MTS 2 LLC., MTS 3 LLC., MTS China Holdings LLC, MTS Europe Holdings LLC, MTS Holdings France S.a.r.l., MTS Japan Ltd.., MTS Korea Inc.., MTS Systems China Co. Ltd., MTS Systems Corporation, MTS Systems Danmark ApS., MTS Systems Europe B.V., MTS Systems Finance C.V.., MTS Systems Germany GmbH, MTS Systems Holding B.V.., MTS Systems Hong Kong Incorporated, MTS Systems Limited, MTS Systems Norden Aktiebolag, MTS Systems S.r.l, MTS Systems., MTS Systems.., MTS Sytems Do Brazil, MTS Testing Solutions India Private Limited., MTS Testing Systems Canada Ltd., Manufacturing Avancee S.A., Meritex Technology Suzhou Co. Ltd., Meurer Verpackungssysteme GmbH, Miller Electric Mfg. LLC, Miller Insurance Ltd., NDT Holding LLC, NOVADAN APS, North Star Imaging Inc., Nova Chimica S.r.l., Orbitalum Tools GmbH, PENTA-91 OOO, PR. A. I. Srl, PT ITW Construction Products Indonesia, Pacific Concept Industries Limited Enping, Panreac Quimica S.L., Paslode Fasteners Shanghai Co. Ltd., Peerless Machinery Corp., Polyrey, Premark FEG L.L.C., Premark HII Holdings LLC, Premark International, Premark International LLC, Prolex Sociedad Anonima, QSA Global Inc., Quimica Industrial Mediterranea S.L., R&D Engineering A/S., R&D Prague s.r.o., R&D Steel ApS., R&D Test Systems A/S., R&D Tools and Structures A/S., RDGDK Engineering Private Limited, Ramset Fasteners Hong Kong Ltd., Rapid Cook LLC, Refrigeration France, S.E.E. Sistemas Industria E Comercio Ltda., ST Mexico Holdings LLC, Sealant Systems International Inc., Sentinel Asia Yuhan Hoesa, Shanghai ITW Plastic & Metal Co. Ltd, Simco Japan Inc., Simco Nederland B.V., Societe de Prospection et dInventions Techniques  SPIT, Speedline Holdings I Inc., Speedline Holdings I LLC, Speedline Technologies GmbH, Speedline Technologies Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., Speedline Technologies Mexico Services S. de R.L. de C.V., Stokvis Celix Portugal Unipessoal LDA, Stokvis Danmark ApS, Stokvis Holdings S.A.R.L., Stokvis Promi s.r.o, Stokvis Prostick Tapes Private Limited, Stokvis Tapes B.V., Stokvis Tapes Benelux B.V., Stokvis Tapes Deutschland GmbH, Stokvis Tapes France, Stokvis Tapes Hong Kong Co. Limited, Stokvis Tapes Italia s.r.l., Stokvis Tapes Limited, Stokvis Tapes Limited Liability Company, Stokvis Tapes Norge AS, Stokvis Tapes Oy, Stokvis Tapes Polska Sp Z.O.O., Stokvis Tapes Shanghai Co. Ltd., Stokvis Tapes Sverige AB, Stokvis Tapes Taiwan Co. Ltd., Stokvis Tapes Tianjin Co. Ltd., Stolvis Holdings II S.A.R.L., Subsidiaries, Technopack Industria Comercio Consultoria e Representacoes Ltda., Teknek China Limited, Teknek Japan Limited, Teksaleco Ltd., The Miller Group Ltd, Thirode Grandes Cuisines Poligny, Tien Tai Electrode Co. Ltd., Tien Tai Electrode Kunshan Co. Ltd., Unichemicals Industria e Comercio Ltda., VR-Leasing Sarita GmbH & Co. Immobilien KG, VS European Holdco BV, Valeron Strength Films B.V., Veneta Decalcogomme S.r.l., Versachem Chile S.A., Vesta, Vesta Global Limited, Vesta Guangzhou Catering Equipment Co. Ltd, Viltronics Soltec, Vitronics Soltec B.V., Wachs Canada Ltd., Wachs Subsea LLC, Weigh-Tronix Canada ULC, Weigh-Tronix UK Limited, Wilsonart International Holdings LLC, Wynn Oil South Africa Pty Ltd., Wynn's Automotive France, Wynn's Belgium BVBA, Wynn's Italia Srl, Wynn's Mekuba India Pvt Ltd, and Zip-Pak International B.V..

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Teledyne Technologies Incorporated, together with its subsidiaries, provides enabling technologies for industrial growth markets in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, France, and internationally. The company's Instrumentation segment offers monitoring and control instruments for marine, environmental, industrial, and other applications, as well as electronic test and measurement equipment; and power and communications connectivity devices for distributed instrumentation systems and sensor networks. Its Digital Imaging segment provides visible spectrum sensors and digital cameras for industrial machine vision and automated quality control, as well as for medical, research, and scientific applications; and infrared and X-ray spectra for use in industrial, government, and medical applications, as well as micro electromechanical systems and semiconductors, including analog-to-digital and digital-to-analog converters. This segment also offers thermal imaging systems, visible-light imaging systems, locater systems, measurement and diagnostic systems, and threat-detection solutions. The company's Aerospace and Defense Electronics segment provides electronic components and subsystems, as well as communications products, such as defense electronics, environment interconnects, data acquisition and communications equipment for aircraft, components and subsystems for wireless and satellite communications, and general aviation batteries. Its Engineered Systems segment offers systems engineering and integration, technology development, and manufacturing solutions for defense, space, environmental, and energy applications; and designs and manufactures electrochemical energy systems and electronics for military applications. The company markets and sells its products and services through a direct internal sales force, as well as third-party sales representatives and distributors. The company was founded in 1960 and is headquartered in Thousand Oaks, California.
The Boston Beer Company, Inc. engages in the production and sale of alcohol beverages primarily in the United States. The company's flagship beer is Samuel Adams Boston Lager. It offers various beers, hard ciders, flavored malt beverages, and hard seltzers under the Samuel Adams, Twisted Tea, Truly Hard Seltzer, Angry Orchard, Dogfish Head, Angel City, Coney Island, and Havana Lager brand names. The company markets and sells its products to a network of approximately 400 wholesalers in the United States, as well as international wholesalers, importers, or other agencies that in turn sell to retailers, such as grocery stores, club stores, convenience stores, liquor stores, bars, restaurants, stadiums, and other retail outlets. The Boston Beer Company, Inc. also sells its products in Canada, Europe, Israel, Australia, New Zealand, the Caribbean, the Pacific Rim, Mexico, and Central and South America. The Boston Beer Company, Inc. was founded in 1984 and is based in Boston, Massachusetts.
Tingyi (Cayman Islands) Holding Corp., an investment holding company, manufactures and sells instant noodles, beverages, and instant food products in the People's Republic of China. The company operates through Instant Noodles, Beverages, and Others segments. It offers ready-to-drink teas, juices, bottled water, and carbonated soft drinks, as well as coffee drinks/functional drinks/probiotics. The company also provides property rental and management, logistics, management, and support services; and manufactures and sells bakery products. The company was founded in 1992 and is headquartered in Shanghai, the People's Republic of China.
Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol, left, shakes hands with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy prior to their talks at the presidential palace in Kyiv, July 15, in this photo provided by Korea's presidential office. Yonhap



Korea has tentatively allocated 520 billion won ($393 million) in the state budget to be used in various support programs for Ukraine, including reconstruction-related projects, next year, according to the government's budget proposal released Tuesday.



Seoul's funds earmarked for Ukraine-related projects for 2024 represents an over eightfold increase from the related 62.9 billion won budget for this year. Of those, 260 billion won will be used to provide humanitarian assistance to the country in its war with Russia.



For the first time, Korea has drawn up a dedicated budget related to reconstruction projects in Ukraine, set at 130 billion won. Also, 130 billion won will be forwarded to international agencies to be used to provide help to Ukraine.



The move came after Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Kyiv last month and agreed to provide the country with a package of security, humanitarian and reconstruction assistance under the name "Ukraine Peace and Solidarity Initiative."



Further, the country's budget for overseas development assistance (ODA) has been set at 6.5 trillion won for next year, up 2 trillion won from this year and marking Seoul's biggest annual ODA budget to date.



Korea has also allocated 1.95 trillion won for diplomacy projects in the Indo-Pacific and Africa, marking an approximately 600 billion-won increase from 2023.



The government has also requested 700 billion won in funds for overseas humanitarian assistance programs related to natural disasters, regional conflicts and food crises. (Yonhap)




By Simon Hutagalung



At the 43rd ASEAN Summit, leaders will continue deliberations on how to improve the organization's capacity and institutional effectiveness in preparation for the challenges it will face over the next two decades. From Sept. 5 to 7, 2023, the current chair of ASEAN, will host the summit and accompanying meetings in Jakarta, Indonesia.



Director-General of ASEAN Collaboration Sidharto Suryodipuro of the Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that Indonesia's goal is to establish a basis for ASEAN collaboration to solve future and present problems. During a video press conference, he remarked, "To achieve that, we must strengthen our institution (ASEAN) and its working mechanisms." He mentioned a few areas that may use some work, including human resources in the ASEAN community, human rights talks and marine cooperation among member nations.



In its role as ASEAN chair, Indonesia will outline the organization's agenda and its top goals. Food, health, energy, financial stability and supply-chain resilience are all examples of human-related security concerns. The situation in Myanmar, the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, the Korean Peninsula and the South China Sea are just a few examples of regional and international crises that will be at the forefront this year. Indonesia anticipates a total of 27 global leaders and international organizations, including 18 EAS leaders, the Prime Minister of Canada and the executive directors of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the Global Bank. The leaders of countries outside of ASEAN, including China, Japan, South Korea, the United States, Australia and India, will also be present at the Jakarta Summit.



In addition to hosting the 43rd ASEAN Summit, Indonesia will also host the 18th East Asia Summit (EAS). This East Asian meeting is the most important venue for such discussions in the whole Indo-Pacific region. Because it is the only leader-led meeting where all major Indo-Pacific partners can get together to talk about the political, security and economic concerns confronting the region, it plays a crucial role in fostering tighter regional cooperation. Australia was a founding member of the EAS and attended the first meeting, held in Kuala Lumpur on December 14, 2005. Australia, China, India, Japan, New Zealand, the Republic of Korea, Russia and the United States are among the EAS's 18 members, joining the 10 ASEAN nations (Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam). The forum is overseen by ASEAN and each year a different member of ASEAN takes the reins as chair.



When the top leaders of Southeast Asia get together for the 43rd ASEAN Summit and the 18th East Asia Summit, they will likely discuss the protracted civil turmoil in Myanmar, the tensions in the disputed South China Sea, and the worry over arms buildups in the Korean Peninsula. Since the February 2021 military coup in Myanmar that toppled Aung San Suu Kyi's democratically elected government, ASEAN's guiding principles have been put to the test. Since the military takeover, the Assistance Association for Political Prisoners, a rights group that keeps track of arrests and deaths, reports that more than 3,750 citizens, including pro-democracy activists, have been slain by security forces.



An ASEAN five-point proposal, which calls for an immediate stop to the violence and talks among all opposing groups, has been largely rejected by Myanmar's military administration. In response, the regional body took a drastic punitive measure by excluding military commanders from Myanmar from attending any of its high-level conferences, including the ministerial sessions that Indonesia would host. Indonesian Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi said that continuing violence would hinder efforts to return Myanmar to normalcy within ASEAN, even though Indonesia has initiated some 110 meetings with groups in Myanmar and provided humanitarian aid to build trust. This will be a major talking point at these conferences.



Foreign ministers from ASEAN member states are expected to reiterate a call for restraint "in the conduct of activities that would complicate or escalate disputes and affect peace and stability," according to the draught communique, echoing language from previous statements that did not directly name China. For decades, China and Taiwan have been at odds with Brunei, Malaysia, the Philippines, and Vietnam over disputed territory. Years of delay have plagued negotiations between ASEAN and China on a non-aggression treaty intended to prevent escalation of the issues.



This new issue of Triton Island, where China is establishing a base, presents a chance for the area to be calmed via discussions, something that is only achievable on the platform of ASEAN and the East Asia Forum. China is substantially enlarging Triton Island, an islet off the coast of Vietnam, as seen from satellite images. Triton is a contested territory between China, Taiwan, and Vietnam, but China has taken the island and is constructing an airfield there. As with many other islands with competing claims, China has established military dominance on Triton.



As a whole, East Asian countries need to reevaluate their approach to conflict resolution and learn to communicate more effectively through the ASEAN and East Asia platform forums. The military junta of Myanmar must be brought on board to address the problem in the country, and this may be done through talks and other forms of pressure. China has serious problems as it provokes wars with nearly every East Asian country, yet to compete with the United States, it requires regional peace and stability. This is a golden chance for all the countries in the area to settle their differences with China.





Simon Hutagalung is a graduate of the City University of New York and received his master's degree in political science and comparative politics. He is presently working at the Indonesian Foreign Ministry. The opinion and views are his own not representing the view of CUNY or the Indonesian Foreign Ministry.


A Ukrainian serviceman walks near a destroyed Ukrainian tank, as Russia's attack on Ukraine continues, near the village of Robotyne, Zaporizhzhia region, Ukraine Aug. 25. Reuters-Yonhap



Ukraine said on Monday its troops had liberated the southeastern settlement of Robotyne and were trying to push farther south in their two-month-old counteroffensive against occupying Russian forces.



The Ukrainian military said that its troops last week had raised the national flag in the strategic village and posted a video showing the move. The forces then carried out mopping-up operations until they confirmed control on Monday, the military said. "Robotyne has been liberated," Deputy Defense Minister Hanna Maliar was quoted as saying on Monday by the military.



The settlement is 10 km (six miles) south of the frontline town of Orikhiv in the Zaporizhzhia region on an important road towards Tokmak, a Russian-occupied road and rail hub.



Tokmak's capture would be a milestone as Ukrainian troops press southwards towards the Sea of Azov in a military drive that is intended to split Russian forces following Moscow's full-scale invasion in February 2022.



Russia has not confirmed the Ukrainian advance. In a statement, Russia's defense ministry said Moscow's troops had repelled attacks by Kyiv's forces near Robotyne and Verbove.



President Volodymyr Zelenskiyy spoke on Monday of different sectors of the front in his nightly video address but made no reference to Robotyne. He said Ukrainian forces were preparing responses to Russian plans "definitely. In a way they do not anticipate."



Ukraine believes its fighters have broken through the most difficult line of Russian defenses in the south and that they will now start advancing more quickly, a commander who led troops into Robotyne told Reuters last week.



Separately, Defense Minister Oleksii Reznikov said on Monday any suggestion of differences with Washington over Ukraine's military strategy were "mistaken and invented."



He told a news conference that Ukrainian commander-in-chief Valery Zalunzhniy was meeting "systematically" with senior officials from allied countries supplying Ukraine with weaponry.



"Everything is going according to the plan, which was discussed with our partners in advance when our brigades were being formed, when they were equipped...," Reznikov said.



Media have reported on a meeting this month of senior NATO military chiefs and Ukraine's top general on resetting Ukraine's military strategy.



The New York Times last week quoted U.S. and other Western officials as saying that the offensive had made limited progress because Ukraine had too many troops in the wrong places.





Ukrainian soldiers of the Separate Assault Battalion 'Skala' enter the embattled village of Robotyne, Zaporizhzhia region, Ukraine, in this screengrab taken from a handout video released, Aug. 25. Reuters-Yonhap
One of the two men arrested Monday evening following the robbery of a bank in the Billings Heights was 87-year-old Steven Whitecloud.

The second suspect was 25-year-old Patrick Justice, according to Billings Police Lt. Matt Lennick.

Both of the Billings men have been charged with two counts each of robbery. The second count was related to the robbery of last Thursday of a US Bank at 1700 West and Grand Avenue.

Billings Police arrested the men near the site of a bank robbery.

Police responded to the robbery of the Wells Fargo Bank in the 1300 block of Main Street at about 4:30 p.m. The suspect entered the bank and demanded money with the threat of a weapon and then fled, Lennick said.

Officers located a vehicle leaving the area and a short, low-speed pursuit ended near Main and 6th Avenue North. Two people have been detained, Lennick said.
Kendallville, IN (46755)

Today

Cloudy skies this morning will become partly cloudy this afternoon. High 41F. Winds NW at 10 to 20 mph..

Tonight

Partly cloudy skies. Widespread frost likely. Low near 25F. Winds WSW at 5 to 10 mph.
An Indonesian actress raised brows and received criticism after taking a photo with EXO.

What did she do to receive such hate?

Indonesian Actress Faces Backlash After Sharing Photo With EXO

On August 27, six members of EXO had a fun time meeting their Indonesian EXO-Ls (fandom) during the "Scarlett EXO: GLOW TO YOU" Meet and Greet in Jakarta, held at the Beach City International Stadium.

On this day, Xiumin, Suho, D.O., Chen, Chanyeol, and Baekhyun (excluding Sehun, Kai, and Lay) represented the beauty brand Scarlett Whitening as the glow ambassador, which was initially announced in June 2023.

THE AUDACITY to stand beside him as if she didnt throw him under the bus  https://t.co/K6nXAUJLW5  sof (@WITHKINGJD) August 27, 2023

During the event, Izzi Isman, an Indonesian actress and model, drew attention from fans for her appearance.

In the fandom, she's known as a huge fan of EXO, especially of Chanyeol, and she is also fluent at speaking Korean after living in the country.

As a fan and celebrity, she was given a chance to take an exclusive photo backstage with the group. But shockingly, EXO-Ls weren't all supportive - and it wasn't entirely even because of jealousy!

In the now-deleted post, Izzi amassed negative comments for taking photos with the members.

In a viral tweet on Twitter (hereinafter X), she was criticized for her "audacity" and was called out for being "shameless" after standing next to the group as if nothing happened.

Why Is Indonesian Actress Izzi Isman Being Criticized by EXO-Ls?

Apparently, fans are expressing their anger as she's infamous for allegedly being a "Chen hater," who also once "disrespected" EXO's leader Suho.

Starting with her being an "Anti-Chen," all started when fans called her a "hypocrite" for crying in front of Chen during his fan meeting but went on to badmouthing the idol.

In an Instagram live broadcast she did in 2020, Izzi insisted that Chen should apologize for causing a ruckus after announcing his marriage and wife's first pregnancy. Izzi also pointed out that Chen is "inconsiderate" for announcing it amid his co-members activities and birthdays whilst not having an activity of his own.

She even mocked the idol for having unprotected intimate activity with his girlfriend-turned-wife.

Izzi isman ini blgnya orang2 panas sm dia wakakakak panas bukan karena iri tp karena u kagak deserve foto sebelah jd after your story yg seakan2 blg it's a mistake padahal jd sendiri blgny blessing wakakaka pic.twitter.com/6EZ6BNTxSd  r (@daevastating) August 27, 2023

the way this pathetic b!tch stands next to him !!!!! seriously like nothing happens  pic.twitter.com/rt1LGYCAAC     (@u_han94) August 27, 2023

At the time, fans were furious and it wasn't long before Chen comforted her after having a breakdown during a fan meeting.

Another reason was due to the Indonesian actress allegedly leaking Suho's song, "SEDANSOGU," which was an OST for his drama, "How Are U Bread."

How did she get access to Suhos OST?  E (@c49302) August 27, 2023

Despite these accusations with receipts, Eris are mad that Izzi Isman still gets treatment favorable to her when there are more dedicated and loyal fans who deserve to interact with EXO, especially Chen and Suho.

For more K-Pop news and updates, keep your tabs open here at KpopStarz.

KpopStarz owns this article.

Written by Eunice Dawson.
On August 27, a post titled "BTS's Jimin Ran Into A Member On The Street" gained significant traction, captivating fans worldwide.

Taking an unexpected and delightful twist, an encounter that unfolded on the street between BTS member Jimin and RM's photo has ignited a significant online buzz.

Jimin's Quirky Reaction

The post showcased a snapshot of a bus stop adorned with a special sign dedicated to RM by ARMYs, commemorating his birthday. Jimin's response upon stumbling upon the sign was as endearing as it was amusing."Wait, hyung, you were here?" Jimin quirkily exclaimed.

In a true testament to the camaraderie within BTS, RM promptly joined the interaction by expressing his heartfelt gratitude.

Through Instagram stories, RM's appreciation was conveyed through the universal language of emojis-heart symbols that symbolized his genuine connection with the BTS Army.

The gesture resonated deeply with his millions of devoted followers, turning a digital platform into a space for genuine emotional exchange.

The modest yet heartwarming gesture brought an additional touch of sweetness to an already heart-melting encounter.

READ ALSO: BTS Jimin's 'Kenergy' Awarded by Ryan Gosling With 'Guitar' From 'Barbie' Movie

Netizens were compelled to express their feelings about the heartwarming exchange between these international sensations. Admirers couldn't contain their excitement, showering Jimin's endearing response with their affectionate sentiments.

Netizens' comments:

"Jimin, I miss you."

"The cuteness is unreal."

"Cuteness overload!"

"He really made it seem like it was RM for a second!"

"Is this close to the HYBE building? Haha!"

"Absolutely adorable!"

"The emoji he used is so endearing. Jimin is just too cute."

"Both of them radiate cuteness!"

"You're so sweet RM, We love you! "

"JIMINNN youre so sweet"

This impromptu rendezvous between Jimin and RM resonated far beyond the street where it unfolded. As fans from all corners of the world observed their genuine camaraderie, the resonance was palpable.

The heartwarming connection between these two members symbolized a larger narrative-the enduring bond that lies at the core of BTS.

This serendipitous street encounter continues to ripple through the digital landscape, reaffirming the profound connection that BTS shares with their dedicated fan base.

Meanwhile, BTS's Jimin is scheduled to depart for New York, USA, from Incheon International Airport last August 13th as part of his overseas commitments.

READ THE FULL STORY HERE: BTS Jimin Leaves for New York

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Cassidy Jones wrote this.
Attorneys on Monday presented opening statements in the murder trial of a Mandan teenager who is charged as an adult in the fatal shooting of a South Dakota man and the related wounding of another person in Bismarck.

Prosecutors allege the victim was shot multiple times, while the defense argues it's a case of self-defense.

Jesse Taylor Jr., 17, is charged with murder in the Sept. 23, 2022, death of Maurice Thunder Shield, 28, of McLaughlin, South Dakota. An aggravated assault charge stems from allegations that Taylor also shot another person during the same incident at Motel 6 in north Bismarck.

A judicial referee in moving the charges from juvenile jurisdiction to adult court noted Taylor had a limited juvenile history but said he didnt comply with probation and admitted to committing other offenses while on probation, according to documents.

Taylor, then 16, pleaded not guilty last October and is scheduled for a two-week trial presided over by South Central District Judge James Hill at the Burleigh County Courthouse in Bismarck.

Taylor and Thunder Shield knew each other, according to police. The two that day initially had a conversation that ended with a handshake and a hug, Burleigh County States Attorney Julie Lawyer told jurors.

Thunder Shield was hanging out with friends later that night when Taylor allegedly confronted him. Taylor made fun of and harassed Thunder Shield about his sexual orientation, according to Lawyer.

Defense Attorney Philip Becher told jurors that both Taylor and Thunder Shield were saying "some stuff to each other that really wasn't all that great.

The argument started with Jesse basically asking and confronting Maurice because he was concerned Maurice was providing narcotics to his mother, Becher said. He did not specify if it was Taylors mother.

Taylor removed himself from the situation but Thunder Shield continued to harass, spit on and throw things at Taylor, which caused him to begin arguing again, according to Becher.

Thunder Shield cant let it go, cant go away, and instead Thunder Shield comes downstairs to confront Taylor in person, the attorney said.

Lawyer said Taylor called Thunder Shield to him, shot Thunder Shield multiple times and fled the scene. She did not cite a possible motive.

Becher said Thunder Shield was threatening to beat up Taylor, and Taylor defended himself.

(Thunder Shield) created a situation where Jesse felt the reasonable need to act -- and he acted by protecting himself, the attorney said.

Thunder Shield was shot four times but suffered 13 bullet wounds in the chest, arm, hip and back.

One of the (bullets) that went in his arm actually exited under his arm and went back into his body in his chest, Lawyer said.

A bystander was grazed by a bullet.

Police found five bullet cartridges at the scene.

Thunder Shield was pronounced dead at a hospital. Drugs and alcohol were found in his system during an autopsy, according to Lawyer.

Taylor was arrested in Warren, Minnesota, the evening of the shooting. Authorities haven't said if he had allegedly been drinking or using drugs that day.

The reported-stolen gun allegedly used by Taylor was found in Bismarck's Jaycee Centennial Park at the base of a tree by a resident, according to authorities.

Taylor faces a possible life prison sentence without parole if convicted on the murder charge.
SHREVEPORT, La.  City Council Chairman James Green had a state police uniform patch, not a badge, in his possession when he was stopped for a
Produced water spilled from a pipeline 26 miles northeast of Williston in northwestern North Dakota's Williams County on Monday, according to state environmental officials.

Henry Hill Oil Services LLC informed state agencies on Monday that a pipeline leak caused the spill of 10,000 barrels or 420,000 gallons of produced water, impacting some wetland area. Produced water is saltwater that can contain oil and drilling chemicals.

The pipeline has been isolated and cleanup is underway, according to the spill report on file with the state.

State officials have been on site and are monitoring remediation efforts, the North Dakota Department of Environmental Quality said.
A U.S. Navy submarine that carries the North Dakota name is getting a new commanding officer.

Command of the USS North Dakota will transfer from Cmdr. Robert Edmonson III to Cmdr. Towney Kennard III during a Thursday morning ceremony at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard in Kittery, Maine, according to information supplied by USS North Dakota Committee Chairman Bob Wefald, of Bismarck. Kennard will be the ship's fifth commander.

Kennard is a Georgia native who has served on numerous ships, including as an engineering officer on the USS North Dakota. He also has held several onshore Navy positions, and has earned numerous awards including the Global War on Terror Expeditionary Medal.

The $2.6 billion, 377-foot-long USS North Dakota is able to launch cruise missiles, deliver special forces and carry out surveillance. It was commissioned at Groton, Connecticut, in 2014, becoming the first Navy vessel in a century to carry the name North Dakota. A World War I-era battleship also was named for the state.

The submarine was certified for overseas deployment in 2018 and made its first such voyage in August of that year.

Under Edmonsons command the submarine completed two deployments. The ship will be in the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard for up to 2  years for maintenance and repairs as well as electronic and weapons systems upgrades.

"All of us in the great state of North Dakota are very proud of our namesake submarine, and we are honored she carries the name USS North Dakota," Wefald said in a statement.
General Intervention by H.E. Himalee Arunatilaka, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Sri Lanka to the UN in Geneva, on 28 August 2023

Mr. Chair,

Sri Lanka compliments the work accomplished by you as the Chair of this open-ended working group to date, based on the mandate given by General Assembly resolution 76/231. We are thankful to all Member States for their constructive engagement throughout the past sessions towards reaching a substantive outcome of this working group.

Mr. Chair,

Sri Lanka recognizes the common interest of humankind in the exploration and use of outer space for peaceful purposes without discrimination. Sri Lanka has been actively engaging in multilateral efforts for the prevention of an Arms Race in Outer Space (PAROS) over many decades since becoming a signatory to the Outer Space Treaty in 1967. Significantly, Sri Lanka proposed a moratorium on the testing and development of space weapons preceding multilateral negotiations on a treaty to prohibit all weapons in space in 1985.

Furthermore, Sri Lanka has been co-presenting together with Egypt, the UNGA Frist Committee Resolution on Prevention of an Arms Race in Outer Space in keeping with our longstanding and principled position on this subject and the promotion of peaceful uses of outer space.

As stated in the PAROS resolution, the current international legal regime pertaining to outer space does not in and of itself guarantee the prevention of an arms race in outer space.

Today, with the rapid advancement of new space technologies, prevention of an arms race in outer space has become critical. We believe that the mandate of this working group is to make recommendations on possible norms, rules and principles of responsible behaviours which could contribute to the negotiation of a legally binding instrument. Further, we wish to highlight the necessity of effective measures for verification to prevent an arms race in outer space.

Mr. Chair,

Sri Lanka is of the view that the draft report should be strengthened on the need for the development of international law on space security. We also believe that the report should reflect a consensual text and reiterate Sri Lankas position that the early negotiation of a legally binding instrument on PAROS should be a priority.

An increasing number of space actors, related emerging new technologies and a fast-blurring line between civilian and military uses of space capacities, give rise to the need to address existing legal gaps in the Outer Space Treaty. Therefore, this open-ended working group needs to recognize the need for further advancement of international law on outer space, building on the existing legal frameworks. We welcome in this regard the recognition of the applicability of relevant treaty and customary international law to outer space activities in the draft report.

Sri Lanka further wishes to underline that the norms, rules and principles developed by the open-ended working group should not provide the ground for any subjective interpretation of existing legal obligations on the conduct in outer space or the possibility for generalization of outer space as a domain for possible conflict, undermining the goal of PAROS.

We reiterate that the working group should highlight the importance of applicability of international law regarding outer space activities. We also believe that Member States should further consider proposing possible norms, rules and principles to address mitigating outer space debris, prevention of militarization of space, and protection of civilians and civilian infrastructure. We should pay extra attention to preventing irresponsible behavior which could have potential impact on international peace, security and stability, as well as interrupting essential civilian services, scientific research and development, climate change adaptation and mitigation and disaster risk prediction.

In keeping with growing international concerns regarding modern outer space capabilities, Sri Lanka calls for the universalization of existing international law applicable to outer space activities.

It is important for our delegation that the OEWG report reiterates the priority need for early negotiation of a comprehensive and non-discriminatory legally binding instrument on PAROS. Voluntary non-binding measures including Transparency and Confidence Building Measures (TCBMs) cannot and should not be a substitute for an international legally binding instrument to prevent an arms race in outer space.

Mr. Chair,

We remain hopeful that the deliberations of this forum would lead to an inclusive and comprehensive consensus outcome report.

Thank you

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On 28 August Venezuelas Presidentappointed three new ministers along with a new board of directors at Petroleos de Venezuela (Pdvsa), the financially troubled state-owned oil company.

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On 28 August Guatemalas president-electslammed as illegal the decision by the electoral authority (TSE)s citizens registry (RC) to suspend his left-of centre party Movimiento Semilla (Semilla).

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The white Jacksonville shooting gunman, who specifically targeted Black people while gunning them down with a gun scribbled with swastikas, also left behind several racist writings against African Americans.

Before going into his killing spree, white supremacist Ryan Palmeter, 21, lived with his parents and actually texted his father and left a suicide note. His family notified the authorities following the text but it was too late, Palmeter was already shooting up the Jacksonville Dollar General store, killing three unarmed African-American civilians.

The text that Palmeter sent told his father to break into his room and check his computer. There, the gunman left a suicide note, a will, and racist writings that showed his views against African Americans. This prompted his family to notify the police, according to the Associated Press.

The Jacksonville Sheriff's Office then stated that Palmeter made it very clear that he hated Black people after they reviewed his writings and added that he also left behind letters addressed to his family, federal law enforcement, and at least one media outlet.

The shooter initially went to the Edward Waters University campus, a traditionally Black college, but was turned away by a local campus security officer after he refused to identify himself. He then shot up a nearby Dollar General store instead.

Palmeter brought two guns to his mass shooting attack: a Glock handgun and an AR-15 style semi-automatic rifle. The latter of which was scribbled with racist screed and Nazi symbols, including swastikas.

READ NEXT: Ron DeSantis Booed After Jacksonville Shooting

Campus Security Officer Who Scared Off Racist Mass Shooter Called a Hero

Meanwhile, the Edward Waters University security officer who turned away the mass shooter was hailed as a hero by many who attended the historically Black college. He leaped "right into action" after a car full of students pulled up beside his car and informed him of a suspicious man they saw in the faculty and staff parking lot.

According to NBC News, the man they saw put on a bulletproof vest, gloves, and a mask. The campus officer, named Lt. Antonio Bailey, then approached the suspicious individual. When the man saw Bailey, he sped off and jumped a curb before exiting the campus "at a high rate of speed."

After the man sped off, the school immediately moved its 1,200 students to safety. College president A. Zachery Faison Jr. praised the security officer and called him "our hero." However, in that same news conference, Bailey stated that he is not a hero.

"If anything, it's the students who alerted me so I could do my job," he said.

Jacksonville Shooting: The Latest in a Series of Racially-Motivated Mass Shootings

According to Vox, there has recently been a trend of racially motivated attacks prior to the Jacksonville shooting. The others occurred in Buffalo, Atlanta, Charleston, and Los Angeles.

The US is a high-income country. However, unlike other high-income countries, the US has a very high death toll from gun violence, with an average of 120 Americans dying from gun-related incidents every single day. This includes suicides and homicides as the number of gun deaths averages at 43,375 per year.

This is because there is easy access to guns in the US, with gun lobbyists going into action every time there is an effort to control guns.

READ MORE: Donald Trump Continues Spreading Election Misinformation Even After Getting Indicted

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Written by: Rick Martin

WATCH: Relative of Jacksonville mass shooting victim speaks | Action News Jax
The most recent data released this year by Gallup shows depression rates in America to be higher than ever in polling history. Gallup reports approximately 18% of adults endorsing a current diagnosis of depression, which is over 7 percentage points higher than data on depression diagnoses reported in 2015. Furthermore, national data show that 37% of Americans live in areas with a significant shortage of mental health professionals. In North Dakota, 39% of residents live in areas with insufficient in-person access to mental health care. Certainly, virtual access has and will continue to improve care for individuals in rural areas who are not readily able to access in-person care. However, if we wait for licensed mental health professionals to singlehandedly reverse this trend, it may never happen. New problems require new solutions, and theres one the world should be paying attention to. Dr. Dixon Chibanda, one of just 12 psychiatrists serving the 16 million people of Zimbabwe, knew he and his colleagues would never be able to provide the mental health support their communities needed alone. Instead of lamenting about the severe lack of access to care, he revolutionized care in Zimbabwe and is now challenging the rest of the world to join him.

After witnessing too many people suffer from treatable symptoms with no access to mental health care, Dr. Chibanda decided to act by developing a community-based program called the Friendship Bench to help people in need. He turned to a group of people well-suited to help: community grandmothers. These grandmothers had no formal mental health or counseling training but did have hearts ready to serve and willingness to learn. He provided them with brief training in evidence-based problem-solving therapy strategies and asked them to sit on a Friendship Bench in the community to provide support to anyone who needed to come sit and visit with them. Despite little training, these grandmothers set out to  and did  change the landscape of mental health care in Zimbabwe.

Since 2006, Dr. Chibanda and his team have trained over 400 grandmothers to provide free support to over 30,000 people throughout 70 communities within Zimbabwe. Additionally, a landmark 2016 study evaluating the Friendship Bench program discovered that people who completed six visits with grandmothers on the Friendship Bench showed significantly greater improvement in symptoms of depression six months later compared with individuals who received treatment as usual. The program has since expanded to several countries, including the U.S., where Friendship Benches can be found throughout New York City. Internationally, both female and male volunteers of a variety of ages have been trained to provide support.

Dr. Chibandas world-changing experiment provides hope that reversing rising rates of depression could be more attainable than previously thought. Imagine what could happen in North Dakota alone if healthy adults  grandmothers, grandfathers, moms, dads, aunts, uncles, and friends  took the time to sit down and provide support, encouragement, and hope to others in need. Imagine what could happen if more community members took the time to seek out training to learn how to effectively support others with mental health concerns. Although the Friendship Bench program of training has not come to North Dakota yet, other training programs are alive and well in our state. The Mental Health First Aid program is an excellent starting point, and I encourage people to complete this training if able. I applaud Dr. Chibandas efforts to invite and involve the heart of his community to help solve the mental health crises of Zimbabwe. In that spirit, this North Dakota mental health professional invites you to join me in this important work too.
The Tropical Storm Idalia update shows that it is on track to escalate into a hurricane by Monday, posing a significant threat of perilous storm surge, high winds, and heavy rainfall to Florida's Gulf Coast from Tuesday through Wednesday, potentially reaching Category 3.

The storm's anticipated rapid intensification before reaching the Big Bend region of Florida's coastline has sparked heightened concerns, according to CNN.

This region is susceptible to storm surges, with up to 12 feet projections.

Idalia's impact is anticipated to extend from the Florida Keys to parts of the western coast, starting as early as Tuesday.

Wind speeds will rise across the Florida Keys and southwestern coast by Tuesday morning, followed by gusty winds spanning much of Florida, including inland areas, by Tuesday night as the storm's outer bands extend inland.

As Wednesday progresses, the wind, rain, and storm surge are expected to intensify further as the powerful hurricane makes landfall along Florida's Gulf Coast.

A broad area of Florida is projected to be affected by Idalia, with the most severe impacts predicted from Tampa northwards through the Big Bend area and into portions of the Panhandle.

Conditions in these areas are set to deteriorate rapidly leading up to Wednesday morning's landfall.

READ NEXT: Tropical Storm Idalia Path and Tracker

Gov. Ron DeSantis Urges Residents in Flood Zones To Evacuate

Florida officials are issuing urgent advisories for residents in low-lying regions along the Gulf Coast to evacuate ahead following Tropical Storm Idalia update, forecasting storm surge, per NBC News.

Governor DeSantis announced that tolls will be waived starting at 4 am to facilitate smoother evacuations for families across the state.

Additionally, the state has amassed 400,000 gallons of fuel, primarily designated for evacuation routes.

DeSantis emphasized that evacuees don't necessarily need to leave the state or travel long distances; the key is to escape the path of potential storm surge.

He encouraged those in vulnerable areas to seek refuge in higher-ground structures to ride out the storm safely.

In charge of the state's emergency management, Kevin Guthrie underscored the importance of utilizing shelters and hotels for those in need.

Guthrie and the governor cautioned that power outages are highly probable in certain areas, advising individuals reliant on electricity for survival to prioritize evacuation.

Tampa, Florida Airport To Shut Before Tropical Storm Idalia Becomes Major Hurricane

Tampa International Airport is taking proactive measures in response to the impending threat posed by Tropical Storm Idalia, their website said.

Commercial operations at the airport are set to be suspended starting from 12:01 am on Tuesday.

The airport will remain closed during this time, allowing for comprehensive preparations across its airfield and terminals.

These preparations encompass securing jet bridges, ground equipment, and aircraft, ensuring readiness for the anticipated landfall of Idalia as a potentially significant hurricane on Wednesday.

While some cargo and private aircraft operations might continue overnight, all air traffic will halt by 7 am on Tuesday morning.

During the closure period, which includes the Main Terminal and Airsides, the airport will not be accessible to visitors and is not equipped to serve as a shelter.

Tampa International Airport intends to resume operations on Thursday morning, with post-storm damage assessments commencing once the threat from the storm subsides.

The reopening process will be closely coordinated with partners, considering road safety, facility readiness, and staffing levels.

Any adjustments to the reopening timeline will depend on future Tropical Storm Idalia update and will be communicated promptly to the public.

READ MORE: Hidden Camera Catches Florida Student Injecting Opioid' Chemical Agent' Under Neighbor's Door

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Written by: Bert Hoover

WATCH: Tropical Storm Idalia predicted to make landfall in Florida as hurricane - From WFFA
Pope Francis is unhappy with US conservatives and blasted them for their "backwardness," especially those in the US Catholic Church. The first pope from the Americas then noted that they had replaced faith with ideology.

In his comments, the Jesuit pope added that "a correct understanding of Catholic doctrine allows for change over time." In his comments, the Jesuit pope stated that "a correct understanding of Catholic doctrine allows for change over time." He reportedly stated these comments during a private meeting with Portuguese members of his Jesuit religious order in Lisbon, Portugal as part of the World Youth Day celebrations. His comments were released as part of the newly released transcript of that meeting.

According to the Associated Press, the pontiff's comments were an acknowledgment of the divisions within the US Catholic Church, which has become divided among conservatives and liberals. Many in the Church have shown support for Donald Trump and have blasted the pope's emphasis on social justice issues like the environment and the poor.

The transcripts of the meeting noted that a Portuguese Jesuit told Pope Francis that he had been suffering during a recent sabbatical year in the US. The reason for this was that many in the US Catholic Church, including bishops, have criticized Pope Francis and the Jesuit Order.

The Argentinian pontiff noted that there was "a very strong, organized, reactionary attitude" in the US Church and called this attitude "backwards." He also warned that such an attitude "leads to a climate of closure, which was erroneous." He added, "Doing this, you lose the true tradition and you turn to ideologies to have support. In other words, ideologies replace faith."

He also noted that the vision of these conservatives on Church doctrine is wrong, adding, "When you go backward, you make something closed off, disconnected from the roots of the church."

Pope Francis then added that he wants to remind these people that such "backwardness" is useless and that they must understand that there is a "correct evolution in the understanding of questions of faith and morals" that would allow for "doctrine to progress and consolidate over time."

READ MORE: Brazil President Lula Offers To Help Free Imprisoned Bishop in Nicaragua After Meeting With Pope Francis

Pope Francis Outlasting Conservative Resistance

It has been a decade since Pope Francis became pontiff, and his reign has been marked by criticisms from conservatives, especially in the US. However, the National Catholic Reporter noted that he has been very tenacious in dealing with them.

Christopher Lamb, Rome correspondent for The Tablet, noted that the Pope's vision of the Church has challenged "the conservative political visions of the church as a combatant in the culture wars" as presented by the Republican Party in the US and by populist-nationalist leaders in Europe and South America.

"There have been these political attacks on Francis because he is a leader on the world stage who is making a difference and having an impact, particularly through the media," the writer added.

Evangelical Leader Says US Conservatives Are Now Calling Jesus Christ 'Liberal' and 'Weak'

Pope Francis is not the only Christian religious leader lamenting over US conservatives embracing ideology over faith. Russell Moore, the editor-in-chief of Christianity Today and a former evangelical leader at the Southern Baptist Convention is warning that evangelical Christianity is moving too far to the right.

He noted that the situation has become so bad that many right-wing "Christians" are considering the teachings of Jesus Christ as "weak." Some are even calling Him "Liberal." Moore also criticized his fellow evangelical Christians for openly embracing Trump and being more tolerant of white nationalists.

In a recent interview, Moore stated that multiple pastors were complaining that their flock would blast them for quoting Jesus Christ's Sermon at the Mount, particularly his teaching to "turn the other cheek." Parishioners would reportedly ask their pastors, "Where did you get those liberal talking points?"

When the pastor would answer, "I'm literally quoting Jesus Christ," the usual response is, "Yes, but that doesn't work anymore. That's weak."

Moore then lamented, "When we get to the point where the teachings of Jesus himself are seen as subversive to us, then we're in a crisis."

READ MORE: Pope Francis Wants Cuba to Release Cuban Protesters Arrested in 2021

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Written by: Rick Martin

WATCH: Pope Francis 'honoured' by criticism from American conservatives - TRT World
Donald Trump's presidential campaign just hit a massive snag as US Judge Tanya Chutkan scheduled his federal trial over his election interference charges on March 4, right in the middle of the Republican primary.

According to Reuters, the date that Judge Chutkan has set is the day before "Super Tuesday," which is usually the day when the most electoral votes are up for grabs, thus cementing who the next Republican candidate will be. Among the states contested on "Super Tuesday" include Texas and California.

Trump is currently leading his Republican opponents by a wide margin, as seen in the most recent polls. His legal troubles have so far not dampened his support from his most loyal followers. However, the trial might convert those still on the fences as to which Republican candidate they might support.

With the March 4 trial date set, this means that Trump will be standing on trial in at least three separate criminal cases while campaigning to become the next Republican nominee. Should he win the nomination, he is expected to take on President Joe Biden in the November general election, and his trials could swing independent voters and more centrist Republicans against him.

Trump is currently facing four criminal trials, including the porn star hush money payment case in New York, the federal election interference case in Washington DC, the Georgia election interference case, and the federal classified documents case in Florida. He is also facing three civil trials, including the defamation case filed by E. Jean Carroll.

His porn star hush money case is scheduled for March 25, with Judge Chutkan saying that she will be consulting the judge in that case if there are any potential scheduling conflicts. His classified documents trial is scheduled for May 20, 2024. His Georgia elections case has not yet been scheduled, though DA Fani Willis has asked for a March 4 trial date. This might not happen anymore because of the date that Judge Chutkan has scheduled for the federal trial.

READ NEXT: Ron DeSantis Booed After Jacksonville Shooting

When Will the Republican Primary Elections Be Decided?

Judge Chutkan's scheduling means that while the Republican primary elections are ongoing, he would have faced his criminal trials at least thrice, as his Georgia election trial still has no schedule.

However, Fulton County DA Fani Willis may get the RICO case in Georgia started as early as October. One of Trump's alleged co-conspirators asked for a speedy trial with an earlier separate date, with Willis wanting to try everyone at the same time. It is still not certain if the judge would accept that request or give a later date.

According to CNN, primary candidates are usually decided around May. Trump previously clinched the Republican nomination around late May 2016, while Mitt Romney clinched the 2012 Republican nomination around the end of May.

Judge Denies Donald Trump's Request To Hold Trial After the Election

Before Judge Chutkan scheduled the trial for March 4, lawyers for both sides requested dueling trial dates. Prosecutors from Special Counsel Jack Smith's office wanted an earlier date but were denied. Trump's defense attorneys wanted the trial to be held after the election in what many say is a blatant attempt to try and throw out the case should Trump be elected president.

Trump lawyers argued that they do not have time to prepare for a March trial date, citing the landmark Powell v. Alabama case as a precedent. In that case, several African-American teens were tried on charges of raping two white women just days after their indictments.

However, in her opinion, Chutkan stated that the Supreme Court found that the "trial court failed to give the defendants reasonable time and opportunity to secure counsel and the defendants were incapable of adequately making their own defense," thus overturning their convictions. In other words, Trump already has attorneys, so their use of the case as a precedent was wrong.

READ MORE: Donald Trump Continues Spreading Election Misinformation Even After Getting Indicted

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Written by: Rick Martin

WATCH: Judge sets March 2024 trial date for Trump federal election interference case - CBS News
A tragic incident unfolded on Monday at the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill, where a faculty member lost their life in a shooting incident that prompted an immediate lockdown across the campus, per NBC News.

UNC-Chapel Hill officials reported that an "armed and dangerous person" was on the loose, initiating a comprehensive search operation.

A suspect was apprehended roughly an hour and a half following the UNC shooting.

Subsequently, an all-clear signal was issued for the campus, indicating that the immediate threat had been neutralized.

No additional injuries were reported, apart from the fatality of the UNC-Chapel Hill faculty member.

During a briefing on Monday afternoon, UNC Chancellor Kevin M. Guskiewicz shared that they were deeply saddened by the tragedy and that efforts would be made to restore the trust and safety of the campus community.

The identity of the faculty member was withheld from the public pending family notification.

Additionally, the suspect's name has not been disclosed due to the absence of formal charges.

READ NEXT: North Carolina Is Luring Disney World to Abandon Florida

UNC Shooting Motives Still Unknown

The University of North Carolina Chapel Hill incident unfolded when shots were reported at around 1:02 pm ET on Monday.

The swift response of law enforcement led to the apprehension of a suspect approximately 90 minutes later, as shared by Guskiewicz during a news conference held on Monday evening.

The motive behind the shooting remains unclear, and UNC Police Chief Brian James emphasized the importance of uncovering the reasons behind the tragic incident.

Chief James mentioned that they are striving to understand the circumstances that led to this event, including any potential connection between the victim and the assailant.

Although a suspect was captured, the weapon used in the shooting has not been located.

Authorities are working diligently to gather evidence and information, including interviews with witnesses and the suspect, to comprehensively understand the incident.

The loss of a f UNC-Chapel Hill faculty member has profoundly impacted the university community.

As a result of the incident, classes and campus activities were canceled for Monday and Tuesday.

Amid the alert period, the university police instructed students to promptly seek shelter indoors, secure windows and doors, and remain in place until further instructions, as conveyed in an email.

A witness on the campus informed CNN that they were confined within their building and witnessed armed officers conducting searches throughout the campus.

Chapel Hill Mayor Roy Cooper, NC Gov. Roy Cooper Release Statement Following UNC Shooting

The tragic events at the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill resonated beyond the campus, affecting the local community and state officials.

Chapel Hill Mayor Pam Hemminger expressed her sorrow, acknowledging the profound disruption the incident had caused in the lives of students, faculty, and staff, per CBS News.

She also extended her sympathy to the children, teachers, and staff who faced the unsettling experience of lockdown on the first day of school.

Canceling classes and campus events for the remainder of Monday and Tuesday underscored the significance of prioritizing safety and allowing time for the community to process and heal.

Surrounding schools also responded to the evolving situation, announcing that students could safely leave once the "all-clear" signal was given.

Governor Roy Cooper offered his support and resources to address the situation. He communicated his commitment to aiding law enforcement efforts to locate the suspected shooter and ensure the safety of the UNC campus.

READ MORE: California: 2 Stabbed After Brawl Erupted

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Written by: Bert Hoover

WATCH: UNC-Chapel Hill shooting kills 1; suspect arrested, police say | Elizabeth Vargas Reports - From NewsNation
Jimmy Lippert Thyden, the Virginia man stolen as a baby has returned to Chile and finally met with his birth mother in a heartwarming scene, reuniting for the first time in 42 years.

"Hola, mama," he told her.

In a story 42 years in the making, Maria Angelica Gonzalez finally met with her now-adult son face-to-face at her Valdivia, Chile home. He traveled all the way from the US just to meet her.

Gonzalez was tricked by hospital workers that her then-newborn son had died and took him from her arms. The boy somehow ended up in the United States, where he grew up.

Thyden spoke with the Associated Press via a video call and admitted, "It knocked the wind out of me. ... I was suffocated by the gravity of this moment."

He then added, "How do you hug someone in a way that makes up for 42 years of hugs?" The Virginia man was seen telling his long-lost mother, "I love you very much" in Spanish.

Thyden was reportedly born at a hospital in Santiago, Chile, the country's capital. He was a premature birth and was placed in an incubator. After giving birth, his real mother was told to leave the hospital since the baby was in an incubator and she could not interact with him. However, upon her return, Gonzalez was told that her baby had died and the hospital had disposed of his body.

"The paperwork I have for my adoption tells me I have no living relatives. And I learned in the last few months that I have a mama and I have four brothers and a sister," said the Virginia man who now works as a criminal defense attorney representing "people who look like me" who cannot afford a lawyer.

Virginia Man Was Adopted by Unwitting Parents Who Had No Idea He Was Stolen From Chile

The stolen Chilean baby who grew up to be a US lawyer called his case "counterfeit adoption." He was able to learn of his real birth relatives thanks to the help of a Chilean nonprofit called Nos Buscamos.

READ MORE: Chile: Somali Wild Ass Born in Zoo, Sparks Hope for 'Critically Endangered' Species

After he was taken, Thyden was reportedly taken to the US where he was adopted out to unwitting parents who raised the boy in Arlington, Virginia. He grew up thinking he had no other family until he read a story on USA TODAY about a California man who was stolen from birth in Chile. This had the lawyer thinking if the same thing happened to him.

After reaching out to Nos Buscamos, they found his birth family after several weeks. USA TODAY reported that the Virginia man thought he had no relatives in Chile for 42 years. After their reunion, his mother stated in Spanish that meeting him again after over four decades was a miracle from God.

NGO Says Thousands of Babies Were Stolen From Chile During the 1970s

Nos Buscamos has helped Jimmy Lippert Thyden reunite with his birth family back in Chile. However, this is a part of a much bigger fight as they continue to reunite other Chilean-born adoptees with their birth families.

According to News Nation, the NGO has been teaming up with genealogy platform MyHeritage to help families separated by child trafficking in 1970s Chile. The group estimates that thousands of babies taken from Chilean families during that era.

Low-income mothers were targeted and had their babies stolen after birth. This was all part of an elaborate human trafficking operation that involved a network of midwives, doctors, social workers, nuns, priests, and judges. Many of these people got rich off grieving mothers who thought their babies had died.

READ NEXT: Chile Political Parties Agree to Try and Change Constitution Again

This article is owned by Latin Post.

Written by: Rick Martin

WATCH: Man taken from mother at birth reunites in Chile after four decades - NBC News
Elon Musk Interviews VIVEK RAMASWAMY

Jul 29, 2023

Key Takeaways for quick navigation:

00:00 Introduction of Vivek Ramaswamy as a successful American business leader, founder of Strive, and his background in biotech.

01:23 Vivek's concern about the American Dream not existing for his sons' generation and his mission to restore purpose, meaning, and identity.

02:46 Discussion about the hunger for purpose and meaning in the Millennial generation, the quest for national identity, and the importance of answering the question, "What does it mean to be an American?"

05:02 Parallels between Elon Musk's focus on space exploration and Vivek's focus on reviving individual self-worth, family values, and national identity as part of the American experience.

09:16 Critique of the loss of national pride and identity in the United States, emphasizing the need to celebrate and appreciate American values.

13:01 Recognition of the rise of China's economy and the importance of maintaining the United States as a meritocracy, fostering economic growth and attracting skilled individuals.

16:20 Advocacy for merit-based immigration to the United States, ensuring that skilled individuals can join and contribute positively to the nation.

18:12 Viewing the current challenges in the US as part of its developmental process, likening it to adolescence, with optimism that the nation will emerge stronger.

18:41 ? Attitude towards growth: Both Elon and Vivek believe that society is not in decline but on an ascent, with endless potential for progress.

19:10 Education reform: Vivek suggests revoking funding from schools that teach misleading ideologies, promoting awareness among donors, and ensuring schools teach accurate information.

19:53 Governance issues: Half of the stock market follows passive or index funds, and voting decisions are often outsourced to a few organizations, leading to potential bias in voting decisions.

21:17 Financial influence on decision-making: Some investment firms may use their influence to promote social agendas through shareholder voting, deviating from maximizing shareholder value.

23:38 ESG debate: Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) initiatives can be manipulated for political or social goals, potentially harming shareholder interests.

26:08 American ideals and truth: Vivek emphasizes the importance of truth and transparency, especially in government and financial matters, for a more united and informed society.

28:12 Intervention and foreign aid: There's a discussion about the potential unintended consequences of military intervention and foreign aid, particularly in conflict zones like Ukraine. 32:08 Private enterprise vs. government: Elon and Vivek discuss the benefits of free enterprise, competition, and the limitations of government's role in various aspects of society.

35:05 Peace proposal and public opinion: Vivek highlights a past peace proposal for Ukraine, suggesting that public opinion often favors interventionist approaches over peaceful alternatives.

37:50 Understanding Ukraine: Elon Musk discusses his deep study of the region's history to comprehend the complex dynamics between Ukraine and Russia.

38:33 Forgiveness and Realism: Musk emphasizes the need for forgiveness and realism in the Ukraine-Russia conflict, highlighting that the cycle of revenge is counterproductive.

39:43 ? Economic Relations: Ramaswamy suggests restoring economic relations between Western Europe and Russia can promote stability and discourage conflict escalation.

40:40 ? Local Support Matters: Musk notes that Russia's ability to advance is limited by the level of local support, citing examples of Crimea and Donbass where local support played a significant role.

41:19 ? Pursuit of Peace: Both speakers advocate for a realistic peace negotiation, highlighting that the continuation of conflict leads to unnecessary loss of life and instability.

43:13 Geopolitical Strategy: Musk and Ramaswamy agree that NATO expansion and political motivations are key factors influencing the Ukraine situation, stressing the need for neutrality and self-determination.

44:35 ? Media Gaslighting: Ramaswamy criticizes the media's downplaying of NATO's role in the conflict and emphasizes the necessity to address this issue for a meaningful solution.

46:13 Beyond Partisan Divides: Musk discusses the potential for a productive alliance between people from different parts of the political spectrum, highlighting the complexity of geopolitical issues.

48:48 Cultural Closing of Ranks: Ramaswamy and Musk stress the importance of open debate on complex issues like civil rights, highlighting the dangers of cultural censorship.

52:05 Executive Order Reevaluation: Ramaswamy and Musk discuss reevaluating executive orders like 11246 to promote colorblind meritocracy and address affirmative action.

55:34 ? Principle Over Politics: Musk asserts his commitment to advocating for truth and principle, even if it means taking on difficult political battles, to restore fairness and equity.

56:57 The interpretation of civil rights laws has led to unintended consequences in creating hostile work environments based on differing opinions, which may not have been the original intent of the Civil Rights Act.

57:24 The historical intent of the Civil Rights Act included concerns about disparate impact, but the modern application has deviated from this intent, leading to issues like affirmative action and diversity quotas.

58:22 ? Recent Supreme Court rulings suggest a shift towards a more balanced approach to interpreting civil rights laws and addressing historical intent.

59:17 ? The discussion turns to etymology, with a connection made between "Merit" and "America" reflecting hard work and a colorblind meritocracy.

01:00:40 A proposal to restructure the FBI is discussed, advocating for redirecting its functions to existing agencies like the U.S. Marshals, DEA, and other specialized bodies, thereby reducing redundancy and corruption.

01:05:03 ? A focus on restoring purpose to the U.S. military is emphasized, prioritizing protecting American lives and deterring and winning wars, with a plan to replace managerial figures in the Pentagon.

01:08:45 The conversation highlights the need to shift away from regime change and interventionist policies in foreign relations, fostering a clear focus on protecting national interests while respecting others' sovereignty.

01:14:08 The discussion touches on the deputization of private companies by the government to censor speech indirectly, prompting a call for transparency through the release of files detailing government interactions with these companies.

01:15:04 The First Amendment's primary purpose is to protect the right to criticize government policies, and recent cases show the government's attempts to suppress such criticism. 01:15:32 Pervasive influence: Examples of government pressuring private sector (e.g., social media, banks) to achieve policy goals the government couldn't achieve directly.

01:16:42 State action doctrine: If the government uses private entities as puppets to carry out its agenda, those actions should be subject to transparency and public scrutiny.

01:17:11 Transparency for accountability: Calls for documenting instances where government employees pressure private actors to achieve government goals.

01:17:39 Rebuilding public trust: Restoring honesty and truthfulness as a key principle, sharing accurate information even when it's uncomfortable, to regain trust in institutions.

01:18:37 China-U.S. relations: Advocates for fair rules and conditions for American businesses operating in China, emphasizing non-coercion, equal standards, and transparency.

01:20:03 Trade relationships: Proposes re-entry into Pacific trade relationships with fairer terms, balancing benefits to both corporations and local populations.

01:22:09 Election funding: Addresses the influence of money in politics, acknowledges need for funding but emphasizes maintaining integrity and not compromising principles.

01:24:29 Grassroots campaign: Describes campaign's reliance on small-dollar donations, emphasizes transparency and integrity in fundraising.

01:28:44 Genuine dialogue: Promotes open, honest, and conviction-driven conversations as a way to connect with people and break away from traditional political tropes.

Made with HARPA AI
A 61-year-old man was arrested Tuesday on suspicion of requesting money and valuables from a Lehigh University student while blocking her path and threatening to rape her, according to police.

Dwayne E. Jones, of the 3800 block of Friedens Road in Washington Township, Lehigh County, was sent to Northampton County Prison on robbery and related charges.

Lehigh University issued alerts about the alleged incident on its HawkWatch Alert Log and in a timely warning required by the federal Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act.

University police say they were called about 7 a.m. Tuesday for the report of the female student threatened outside of The Lehigh Store at 1 Farrington Square on Lehighs Southside Bethlehem Asa Packer Campus, near Asa Drive.

The victim told investigators she was sitting in the area of the store when an unknown man approached her and asked if she had any money, the police wrote in court records.

When she said no, the male told her that she was lying, police wrote. The male then requested her Lehigh ID, but the victim refused to give it to him.

The assailant blocked the victims exit and also asked if she had anything valuable with her, such as jewelry, police wrote: When the victim said no, the male threatened to rape her.

The victim was eventually able to leave and find help, and provided a description to responding officers, police said. Investigators used security cameras to help track the assailant, and he was taken into custody by Lehigh University police in the 300 block of West Fourth Street, court records say.

Jones was identified as the assailant, police said, and arraigned before District Judge Roy Manwaring II on the robbery charge, plus counts of simple assault and terroristic threats. Jones was sent to the prison in lieu of $10,000 bail and faces a preliminary hearing tentatively scheduled Sept. 13 to determine if there is sufficient evidence to send the charges toward trial in the Northampton County Court of Common Pleas.

Court records were not immediately updated with an attorney for Jones.

The Clery Act is named after a student who was raped and murdered in 1986 on Lehighs campus.

Lehighs fall term started Monday.

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Kurt Bresswein may be reached at kbresswein@lehighvalleylive.com.
Two teenagers have been arrested and charged with the shooting that severely wounded Nazareth native Sammy Sasso during a carjacking near the Ohio State University campus almost two weeks ago, Columbus, Ohio, police confirmed on Tuesday.

The standout wrestler for the Nazareth Area High School Blue Eagles and Ohio State Buckeyes must learn to walk on his own again after the gunshot to his gut damaged nerves in his spine, his family has said in a GoFundMe drive raising funds for medical costs.

According to Columbus police, the shooting occurred at 8:30 p.m. Aug. 18 a few blocks from the campus. Sasso had gotten out of his car and was talking to a couple of children in an alley when two suspects approached. A confrontation ensued, Sasso was shot and the suspects drove off in Sassos car. 911 recordings indicate that a passersby stopped to help the wounded Sasso.

Sassos car was found two days later about 7 miles from the shooting scene, police said.

The two teens  a 16-year-old boy and a 15-year-old girl  were arrested and charged with aggravated robbery and felonious assault on Monday.

Sasso has thanked his supporters on social media. When he is released from the hospital, the lehighvalleylive.com 2018 Wrestler of the Year faces comprehensive physical therapy to regain mobility, according to his familys GoFundMe page.

As of midday Tuesday, the online fundraiser had just about met its $100,000 goal after three days.

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Steve Novak may be reached at snovak@lehighvalleylive.com.
The Northampton County Coroners Office has released the identity of a man who died in a motorcycle crash on Friday in Bethlehem Township.

Javier Gonzalez Feliciano, 42, of the 100 block of Main Street in Freemansburg, was killed in the crash, according to a news release issued Monday night by coroner Zachary Lysek.

Feliciano was riding a sport bike when he crashed around 5:30 p.m. Friday on Farmersville Road just past Vintage Drive, township police Sgt. Daryl LaPpointe told lehighvalleylive.com on Saturday.

Feliciano died from multiple blunt force injuries, and the death was deemed accidental, Lysek said.

Asked for an update Monday on the possible cause of the crash, LaPointe said he might be able to release information later this week. LaPointe said any witnesses or anyone else who may have information about the crash can call him at 610-814-6481.

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Rudy Miller may be reached at rmiller@lehighvalleylive.com.
UPDATE: Easton Arts Academy Elementary Charter School CEO Paul Hunter sent out a note to parents Tuesday afternoon saying the electrical issues had been resolved and school will open on Wednesday, Aug. 30.

ORIGINAL ARTICLE: Easton Arts Academy Elementary Charter School remained closed Tuesday as workers tried to restore power.

The first day of school was canceled on Monday due to a power outage early Sunday.

A tree fell on power lines around 5 a.m. Sunday near Pearl and Bushkill streets, according to a Met-Ed spokesman.

The outage caused a system failure to a transformer inside the school at 30 N. Fourth St. in Easton, according to a note sent to parents late Monday by school CEO Paul Hunter.

Damage to our electrical system resulted in a power loss to our major systems, primarily our network, telephones, HVAC, and lighting, he wrote. He said the school electricians, supported by Met-Ed, are working to restore power to the school.

Children were sent home not long after arriving to school Monday. Rather than risk having to send them home again Tuesday, Hunter decided to cancel school.

We deeply regret the inconvenience that this unfortunate event has had on our (school) community. But this has not dampened the anticipation and excitement that our (school) staff has for the 2023-2024 school year, Hunter wrote.

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Rudy Miller may be reached at rmiller@lehighvalleylive.com.
CHAPEL HILL, N.C.  A shooter killed a faculty member in a science building at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill on Monday, police said after a lockdown that paralyzed the campus community as authorities searched for the suspect.

Police arrested the suspect over three hours after the initial reports of shots fired came in from Caudill Labs, officials said at a news conference. Charges were pending, and the suspect was not immediately identified.

University officials also did not immediately identify the staffer who was killed and said it was too soon to offer a possible motive.

This loss is devastating, and the shooting damages the trust and safety that we so often take for granted in our campus community, Chancellor Kevin Guskiewicz said.

Emergency sirens sounded about two minutes after a 911 caller reported gunfire around 1 p.m. at the laboratory in the heart of the flagship campus, UNC Police Chief Brian James said.

Students and faculty barricaded themselves in dorm rooms, offices and classrooms until the lockdown was lifted around 4:15 p.m.

No other injuries were reported.

Adrian Lanier, a sophomore computer science major, told The Associated Press that he and others sat against a wall in a gym, trying to stay as far away as possible from doors and windows as rumors spread.

No one really felt safe enough to leave. I didnt, Lanier said.

Oliver Katz, an exchange student from Copenhagen Business School in Denmark, said some students crowded into gym locker rooms to get away from windows while others crouched in corners and sat on the floor, he said.

Law enforcement respond to the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill campus in Chapel Hill, N.C., on Monday, Aug. 28, 2023, after the university locked down and warned of an armed person on campus. (AP Photo/Hannah Schoenbaum)AP

This never happens where Im from, Katz said. It was intense. But I was a little surprised that other people werent panicking that much.

Katz, who has only been on campus for two weeks, said hes worried his home university will bring the exchange students back early. I dont want to leave. I like it here, and I do still feel safe.

During the news conference, Guskiewicz apologized to students who are feeling uncertain about your safety right now.

James, the campus police chief, said it was unclear if the suspect knew the victim. He also said the weapon has not been found.

We are looking for a firearm. It is too early to determine if the firearm was legally obtained, he said.

During the lockdown, the university repeatedly sent alerts urging campus community members to remain sheltered in place.

About two hours after the first alert went out, officers were still arriving in droves, with about 50 police vehicles at the scene and helicopters circling over the school.

It took about an hour and a half to lift the lockdown after the arrest because authorities were making sure they had the right suspect in custody, James said.

Police also had received calls around campus about other potential victims and gunshots that needed to be checked out, he said.

Law enforcement and first responders gather on South Street near the Bell Tower on the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill campus in Chapel Hill, N.C., Monday, Aug. 28, 2023, after a report of an "armed and dangerous person" on campus. (Kaitlin McKeown/The News & Observer via AP)AP

We had to ensure that the entire campus was safe, James said.

The building where gunfire broke out is a stones throw from the schools iconic Bell Tower and just doors down from the store that sells students books and other merchandise.

Classes started at UNC, the nations first public university, a week ago. The university, with about 20,000 undergraduate students and 12,000 graduate students, canceled Tuesday classes.

During the lockdown, a student told TV station WTVD that she had barricaded her dormitory door with her furniture. Another student, speaking softly, described hiding in fear with others in a dark bathroom.

Noel T. Brewer, a professor of health behavior and a 57-year-old married father of two, told the AP by phone  as he hid with colleagues in his locked office during the lockdown  that he was once held at gunpoint in his mothers jewelry store, but that Mondays events were far more stressful.

Hannah Schoenbaum, Gary D. Robertson and Sarah Rankin of The Associated Press wrote this story.

Robertson reported from Raleigh, North Carolina, and Rankin reported from Richmond, Virginia. Associated Press writers Sarah Brumfield in Silver Spring, Maryland, and Ben Finley in Norfolk, Virginia, contributed to this report.

More:

Harrisburg gym owner attacks ex, breaks every bone in her new boyfriends face: police

NYC road rage victim had perfect day with co-workers, family before deadly encounter
A local volunteer fire department is going to have difficulty handling a fire at a proposed 1.5 million-square-foot building, according to one Slate Belt fire chief.

Mount Bethel Volunteer Fire Chief Chris Finan told Upper Mount Bethel Township supervisors that there may be multiple ways the fire department will struggle handling an emergency at a building proposed by River Pointe Logistics Center.

River Pointe plans to build up to 6 million square feet of buildings on over 800 acres at an industrial complex bordered by River Road, Potomac Street and North Delaware Drive, also known as Route 611.

The supervisors are conducting a conditional use hearing regarding a 1.5-miilion-square-foot building on what are known as lots 4 and 5. Conditional use approval is required in the township for buildings in the industrial zone that have a footprint larger than 800,000 square feet.

The hearing has been continued to 7 p.m. on Sept. 25 at the Mount Bethel Volunteer Fire Co. hall at 2341 N. Delaware Drive. Supervisors may vote after the hearing whether to grant the conditional use approval.

Finan said the massive size of the building, which is proposed to be 65-feet tall, has him concerned about the fire departments ability to handle a blaze at the facility.

Any of these buildings are going to challenge us, Finan said.

However, Finan noted this isnt a criticism of his volunteer department. Any fire department outside of a major metropolis like New York City would have trouble with a building this big, he said.

The fire company is concerned about this, Finan said. As are our mutual aid agencies.

The fire department is going to need new apparatus to deal with the large structures, Finan said.

A Neighborhood Improvement District, or NID, was formed for the development. A NID is a limited area within a municipality where a special assessment fee is levied on all designated properties.

At meetings during the formation of the NID, there were discussions that money would be raised from businesses at the development to buy new emergency equipment for the township.

However, Finan made it clear that River Pointe has not offered him or the fire company anything directly.

The chief cited issues like laying a large amount of hose and having adequate water supply at the site. Even things like radio communications in and around such a large building will present its own challenges, according to Finan.

Supervisors granted final land development approval Monday for a building at the associated RPL East, which is across River Road from the River Pointe complex. Supervisors Martin Pinter, Robert Teel and David Due voted in favor of the approval with supervisors John Bermingham and David Friedman voting against it.

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A drag bingo fundraiser planned at the Phoenix event venue in Nazareth was canceled by the Phoenix board president, according to the event organizer.

Event organizer April Gabriel-Ferretti said she was told Tuesday by Phoenix board president Frank Stampf that he was getting too much pushback over the event and couldnt allow it to take place.

No comment. Thank you, Stampf said when reached by phone Tuesday by lehighvalleylive.com.

The event has been moved to the Bayou restaurant in Easton, Gabriel-Ferretti said Tuesday evening.

This is the second LGBTQ-friendly event Gabriel-Ferretti has organized this year only to see it pushed out of the Nazareth area.

Nazareth Area Pride Day had to be relocated from Tuskes Park in Upper Nazareth Township to New Creation UCC Church in Palmer Township. Upper Nazareth Township Supervisors Chairman Scott Sylvainus said the event got too big too fast and needed more planning before it could come off in June, although Gabriel-Ferretti believes pushback is responsible for that event cancelation, too.

The drag bingo will raise money for the newly-formed nonprofit organization Nazareth Together. The organization supports marginalized communities, including the LGBTQ community. Funds raised from the drag bingo would go toward next years Nazareth Area Pride event.

She put down a deposit on the venue Aug. 14 and started circulating flyers for the event that was supposed to take place Oct. 28 at the Phoenix at 515 W. Mauch Chunk St. in Nazareth.

Then she got a call Tuesday from Stampf telling her the event was off.

The venue was once part of the Holy Family Club, a social club with ties to the Holy Family Catholic Church in Nazareth. The club is still on the lower level of the building but the upstairs event hall was partitioned off to become an independent event venue.

Gabriel-Ferretti was told theres still a spiritual connection between the venue and the parish, that members of the community have come out against the event and that its not acceptable for the venue.

She said Stampf didnt know the event was happening and was told it should have been approved by the board at the Phoenix. Its unclear whether the board approves every wedding reception or graduation party hosted there, Gabriel-Ferretti said.

Within hours of her call from the Phoenix, Gabriel-Ferretti re-scheduled the event at the Bayou restaurant at 64 Centre Square in Easton. It will run from noon to 4 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 29.

Like the Nazareth Area Pride event, the drag bingo was set up to show that everyone in the Nazareth community is welcome regardless of their sexual orientation.

The queer community deserves representation. They deserve to know that theyre welcome, that theyre safe and that theres a place for them, Gabriel-Ferretti said in June prior to the pride event.

Although Gabriel-Ferretti signed an agreement with the Phoenix to hold the event, she was told the deal was off and shed be refunded her deposit. Even if the Phoenix reconsiders, Gabriel-Ferretti wont move the drag bingo there.

I wont give them a penny of (Nazareth Togethers) money, she said.

For more information about the drag bingo at the Bayou, check out the event website.

For information about Nazareth Together, you can reach Gabriel-Ferretti on Facebook.

EDITORS NOTE: This story was updated at 6:47 p.m. Monday, after Gabriel-Ferretti told lehighvalleylive.com she moved the event to the Bayou.

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Rudy Miller may be reached at rmiller@lehighvalleylive.com.
If you enjoy wildlife watching, one of the most exciting excursions you can take in Pennsylvania is a road trip to the Benezette area in the north-central part of the state.

The heart of Pennsylvanias elk country, the area offers wildlife enthusiasts the opportunity to catch a glimpse of some of the majestic wild elk that call the state home. Its an especially popular destination in late summer and early fall, as the elk mating season approaches and the bulls start emitting their screeching bugles, wowing the thousands of people who come from near and far to see and hear the animals.

If you dont have time to make the four-plus hour drive from the Lehigh Valley for the overnight trip thats required to reach Benezette, there is another way to catch this amazing spectacle, and thats to check out the Pennsylvania Game Commissions Elk Cam.
Gardai have released details of their traffic management plan ahead of Electric Picnic next weekend which includes an interactive plan this year.

The traffic management plan will be in place from Thursday, August 31 until the evening of Monday, September 4, with attendees strongly encouraged to use public transport.

The following dedicated routes will be in use for motorists:

From Dublin/North  M7 motorway southbound

All motorists will exit M7 motorway at Junction 16 (Ballydavis interchange).

Take the R445 towards Portlaoise and take a left turn onto the R425.

All motorists (except buses) continue straight at Bloomfield roundabout on the R425 to Sheffield, Lamberton Junction and Money Cross.

At Money Cross turn left and follow directions to carparks.

Campervans will travel straight on the (R426) at Money Cross and turn left in Timahoe village towards Stradbally. Turn left again to enter through Apiary Gate.

Buses will exit the M7 motorway at Junction 16 and travel via the Heath to Stradbally where they will be directed to the Pick-up Drop-off area on the N80.

Accessible route at Bloomfield roundabout take the first exit onto the N80 and continue to Stradbally

From Limerick - M7 motorway northbound:

All motorists except buses will exit the M7 motorway at Junction 17.

Head west towards Portlaoise on the N77.

Turn right after 500m onto the Meelick Road, continue straight.

Turn right onto the R426 and continue take a right onto the R425 at Sheffield.

Continue on the R425 to Money Cross.

At Money Cross turn left and follow directions to carparks.

Campervans will travel straight on the (R426) at Money Cross and turn left in Timahoe village towards Stradbally. Turn left again to enter through Apiary Gate.

Buses should exit the M7 at Junction 16 and travel via the Heath to Stradbally where they will be directed to the Pick-up Drop off area on the N80.

Accessible route at Sheffield Junction take a left and travel to Bloomfield roundabout and take the third exit onto the N80 and continue to Stradbally. See below for accessible parking details.

From Cork  M8 motorway northbound:

All motorists except for buses will exit the M8 motorway at Junction 3 (Manor Stone) and turn right onto the R433 to Abbeyleix.

In Abbeyleix, turn left onto the N77, continue through Abbeyleix and turn right onto the R425/Ballyroan Road.

Continue to follow the R425 towards Cashel Cross.

From Cashel Cross traffic will follow the main road to the right onto the R427.

Continue on the R427 to Money Cross.

At Money Cross motorists will be directed straight on the R427 and from here will follow directions to carparks.

Campervans will turn right at Money Cross onto the R426 and turn left in Timahoe village towards Stradbally. Turn left again to enter through Apiary Gate.

Buses will continue on the M8 and merge with the M7. They will exit at Junction 16 and travel via the Heath to Stradbally where they will be directed to the Pick-up Drop off area on the N80.

Accessible route at Money Cross turn left and continue to Bloomfield roundabout take the third exit onto the N80 and continue to Stradbally. See below for accessible parking details.

N80 from the West:

All motorists including buses from the West will travel on the N80 through Mountmellick towards Portlaoise.

At Fairgreen roundabout /N80 (53.051170, -7.321236) turn right onto the Portlaoise Ring Road.

Continue for 3 KM to the Mountrath Road/R445 and take a right.

At the next roundabout at Rockdale take a left onto the Fr Brown Avenue/Old Knockmay Road.

At Fr Brown roundabout continue straight to the Portlaoise South Circular Ringroad.

At the O Doran roundabout take the third exit onto the R426 to Sheffield.

At Sheffield turn right onto the R425 and continue to Money Cross.

At Money Cross turn left and follow directions to carparks.

Campervans will travel straight on the (R426) at Money Cross and turn left in Timahoe village towards Stradbally. Turn left again to enter through the Apiary Gate.

Buses on this route will turn right at Fr. Brown Roundabout and continue on the N77/Abbeyleix Road and enter the M7 motorway northbound at Junction 17. Buses will then exit the M7 motorway at Junction 16 and travel via the Heath to Stradbally where they will be directed to the Pick-up Drop-off area on the N80.

Accessible route at Sheffield turn left and continue Bloomfield roundabout take the third exit onto the N80 and continue to Stradbally. See below for accessible parking details.

N80 from South East/Carlow /Athy / Vicarstown / Heath:

All event traffic will travel west on the N80 into Stradbally.

All event traffic (except buses) will turn left at Court Square onto the Timahoe Road.

Cars will be directed into the car park.

Campervans will turn right to enter through the Apiary Gate.

Buses will continue on the N80 through Stradbally, pass the Cork Road Junction and will be directed left into the Pick-up Drop-off area on the N80.

Accessible route  Continue on the N80 in Stradbally and refer to accessible parking details below.

Note: There will be no collection point at any carpark over the duration of the weekend. The only collection point will be at the Pick-up Drop-off facility on the N80.

Taxis:

Taxis will be directed to the Pick-up Drop-off area on the N80.

Train / Shuttle Buses:

Portlaoise train station is the closest station to the festival. There will be a shuttle bus service from the train station to Electric Picnic.

Buses from Portlaoise town will continue on the N77/Abbeyleix Road and enter the M7 motorway northbound at Junction 17.

Buses will exit the M7 motorway at Junction 16 and travel via the Heath to Stradbally where they will be directed to the Pick-up Drop-off area on the N80.

Non-event traffic:

An Garda Siochana strongly encourage non-event traffic to avoid using the road networks around Stradbally from 12 midday Thursday August 31 to 5pm on Monday September 4.

There is a road closure order on the R427 Cork Road, Stradbally from 12 midday Thursday August 31to 4pm on Monday September 4.

There will be restrictions on the L3837 /Timahoe Road between Stradbally village and Timogue Cross from 12 midday Thursday August 31 to 4pm on Monday September 4.

Access to the section of the R427 from Vicarstown to the N80 and the L3818 Rathmore Road from the Heath to the N80 will also be restricted at intervals on Friday September 1.

HGVs to Rosslare:

An Garda Siochana encourage hauliers not to use the N80 through Stradbally during Electric Picnic weekend.

As an alternative Gardai suggest using the M7 motorway, exit at Junction 14 for Athy and in Athy take the R417 to Carlow.

Increased traffic volumes are expected on the N80 between Portlaoise and Carlow from 2pm on Thursday August 31 to 4pm on Monday September 4.

General Parking:

Car parks will open for general parking from 16:00 hours Thursday 31st August 2023.

The general campervan and family campervan parking will open on Thursday 31st August at 16:00 hours.

It is essential that maximum usage is made of the designated car parking area and that vehicles enter and park without delay as delays will lead to traffic congestion on approach routes.

Roadside parking will not be permitted in any area; tow trucks will be utilised to remove any roadside parking.

Family Car Parking:

Parking for family ticket holders is located in the lands adjacent to the Abbey off Main Street, Stradbally/N80 and will open from 07:00 hours on Friday September 1.

Accessible Parking:

Accessible parking for weekend campers is located inside Gate 4(a) on the L3837/Timahoe Road, Stradbally.

Accessible Parking for day attendees is located in Green Carpark V off the N80.

Remember where you parked your car!

Gardai are asking those of you driving to and from the event to please be well rested prior to getting in the car. Take frequent breaks to help stay alert. Be extra vigilant and do not get distracted while driving by using your phone. This is a criminal offence.

According to Gardai, this year's festival will see some 70,000 people attend Stradbally from Friday September 1 until Monday September 4.
Laois is the "perfect location" for Electric Picnic, with local producers also praised by the promotor.

Speaking on a video call ahead of the 2023 festival this weekend, Melvin Benn was asked about doing more to support local producers.

We are always looking at it. We already work with Laois Taste and we are always very interested in it, he said.

His comment comes in the wake of complaints by a Laois Taste member, Ballykilcavan Brewery which is not permitted to sell at the festival despite being based a couple of kilometres from the site.

He describes the relationship that Electric Picnic has to Laois.

I dont think theres any doubt about our commitment to Laois and to Stradbally Hall, and to Thomas and his family.

We think we have the perfect location in Ireland. Weve grown very substantially over the years in Laois and we have a really amazing working relationship with the local Gardai, all the fire and medical agencies and obviously with Laois County Council we have a really good relationship.

It works and we brought in Taste of Laois last year I think for the first time, maybe two years ago, and that was absolutely fantastic. It was really good, we loved working with them, the people are so nice. I bought some chocolate from them myself last year and I probably shouldnt have eaten quite so much, it was delicious.Its an opportunity for them to reach that slightly bigger market," he said.

Mr Benn had missed his flight from the UK to attend his annual on-site press conference, due to the UK air traffic control issue.

"I think everybody will enjoy the weekend whether Im there or not. None of them are coming to see me. I cant wait to be there. I can see the flags and Im really cheesed off that Im not there," he said.

On what he is most looking forward to this weekend, its an "endless list".

Everything about the Electric Picnic is to be looked forward to as far as Im concerned.

Obviously the major music artists, Billy Eilish has to be pretty high on everybodys list. I saw Paolo Nutini earlier in the year, that was probably my favourite show of the summer. Fred Again, The Script, the list is endless," Melvin Benn said.

Electric Picnic is sold out with 70,000 festival goers coming to Stradbally. It takes place from Friday to Monday, September 1 to 3.
In the wee hours of Sunday morning, an Australian couplea 26-year-old woman an 34-year-old manwere visiting the Croatian city of Dubrovnik when they paused atop a medieval wall featured in Game of Thrones. Unfortunately, the woman leaned against the man, according to witnesses, and they both fell off the wall to the ground ten meters below. The woman is in critical condition while the man suffered a broken leg.

"Andrijana Biskup, a spokeswoman for Dubrovnik-Neretva police, told local news station Dubrovacka Televizija that the couple had been cuddling or kissing when the fall occurred and that alcohol may have played a part in the accident," according to the The Sydney Morning Herald.

The tourist spot, a medieval area called Pile, became a very popular destination after Game of Thrones aired.
Private and community enterprises in Laois are being invited to apply for funding under the Just Transition Scheme for regenerative tourism and placemaking.

Failte Ireland launched an open call for Expressions of Interest for its Investment Grant-Aid Scheme for Private and Community SMEs as part of the EU Just Transition Fund Regenerative Tourism and Placemaking Scheme for Irelands Midlands 2023-2026.

The scheme is open to eight counties- Longford, Offaly, Roscommon, Laois, Westmeath, Galway, Kildare and Tipperary but only applies partially to Galway, Tipperary and Kildare.

The scheme aims to transform tourism across Irelands Hidden Heartlands and Irelands Ancient East by diversifying the local economy and providing new employment opportunities for workers and communities that were heavily dependent on peat.

The Investment Grant-Aid Scheme for Private and Community SMEs is the first part of the up to 68 million Regenerative Tourism and Placemaking scheme to be delivered by Failte Ireland, as part of the EU Just Transition Fund (EU JTF).

Co-funded by the Government of Ireland and the European Union, the EU JTF Programme supports regions that are experiencing the negative impacts from the transition away from fossil fuel-intensive or greenhouse-gas-intensive industries, such as the use of peat for energy generation.

Under the Investment Grant-Aid Scheme for Private and Community SMEs there are five project categories that will be considered for funding:

Category 1: Development or Enhancement of Sustainable Visitor Experiences.

Category 2: Development of Sustainable/Low Carbon Tourist Accommodation.

Category 3: Capital Project Planning and Design.

Category 4: Digital Transformation.

Category 5: Accessibility enhancements to provide a more inclusive visitor experience.

Green Minister Pippa Hackett welcomed the opening of the scheme.

I am grateful to Failte Ireland for their work with communities, enterprises and agencies in designing a funding scheme for tourism enterprises of up to 17 million. As part of the EU Just Transition Fund, this scheme prioritises the generation of jobs in areas where the economy traditionally centred on peat extraction and peat powered electricity generation. It is one scheme in the bigger plan to establish the Midlands as a green tourism destination. Community and small to medium size enterprises with ideas to attract more visitors, make the tourism offering more inclusive and increase the length of time visitors stay can apply now under one of five project categories that will be considered for fund, she said.

Minister for Tourism, Catherine Martin expressed her belief that the scheme would transform tourism in the Midlands.

The opening of the EU Just Transition Regenerative Tourism and Placemaking Scheme by Failte Ireland marks the beginning of the regenerative tourism development journey in Ireland, as we work towards a low carbon economy. This scheme is in line with the Programme for Government commitment for the development of a Sustainable Tourism Policy which will support sustainable economic development and job creation. Working with all partners and communities on the ground I am confident that this scheme will help to transform tourism in the Midlands and enable the regional economies to thrive, she said.

Minister for Environment, Climate and Communications Eamon Ryan echoed her sentiments.

The EU Just Transition Fund Regenerative Tourism and Placemaking Scheme is an example of how the Government and the European Union are working together to provide new employment and economic opportunities in the Midlands that will help local communities benefit directly from the green transition. This is one of many initiatives under the EU Just Transition Fund that will accelerate the transition towards a greener, more sustainable, low-carbon economy in the Midlands, he said.

CEO of Failte Ireland Paul Kelly said: This is a significant funding scheme for tourism in the Midlands that will leave a lasting legacy of transformative change. We encourage private and community-based micro enterprises and SMEs to recognise the enormous potential of this scheme.

We are now inviting them to express their interest in developing a tourism project that will help create more reasons for domestic and international tourists to visit the Midlands while also sustaining jobs, businesses and local communities. It is an unprecedented investment in tourism, and one that is going to have a tangible economic impact in the designated territories of Irelands Hidden Heartlands and Irelands Ancient East. Failte Ireland looks forward to working collaboratively with local tourism businesses and communities, the East and Midland Regional Authority (EMRA), Bord na Mona, Local Authorities, and our strategic partners including Waterways Ireland, National Parks and Wildlife Service and Coillte to implement the Regenerative Tourism and Placemaking Scheme.

Assistant Director of the Eastern and Midland Regional Assembly (EMRA), the managing authority of the Just Transition Fund, Bernie Roe described the invitation as exciting.

This new investment scheme for SMEs will support local jobs and communities for a vibrant tourism industry in the wider Midlands in a way that celebrates the area's potential and rich experience. This scheme is a key piece of a broader group of actions under the EU JTF programme that will help to increase the attractiveness of the wider Midlands regions as a place to live, work and visit as it moves away from carbon-intensive activities, she said.

Failte Ireland recognised the potential of tourism to generate employment for former peat harvesting based communities and developed a set of actions to be incorporated within the EU Just Transition Fund programme to create new enterprises and jobs by establishing the Midlands as an authentic regenerative tourism destination, based on the sustainable use of the peatlands and wetlands, she added.

The purpose of the Investment Grant-Aid Scheme is to deliver grant-aid to private and community-based micro enterprises and SMEs to help them improve the quality of the visitor experience within the EU Just Transition Territory.. The ambition is to attract more visitors, increase dwell time, and secure overnight stays. This will create new jobs in the sector and help grow the visitor economy.

Applications for the Investment Grant-Aid Scheme for Private and Community SMEs will be assessed by Failte Ireland, who will provide guidance on the scheme and offer direct support to applicants. Private and community-based micro enterprises and SMEs can find scheme guidelines, useful toolkits and how to register their interest in the scheme at the Failte Ireland website.

Failte Irelands Regenerative Tourism Scheme under the EU Just Transition Fund will be delivered through a series of Open and Closed Call Grant-Aid Schemes, comprising seven distinct funding schemes which will be announced over the coming months.
Milk price reductions are projected to leave Laois dairy farmers almost 65 million out of pocket this year.

Thats according to the Irish Creamery Milk Suppliers Association(ICMSA) who say dairy farmers nationwide are facing a 2 billion reduction in income this year.

ICMSA President Pat McCormack said the reduction in income has reduced spending in rural communities by possibly double that amount. This, he said, is going to have a very serious impact not only on the dairy farmers themselves but on the wider rural economy in 2023 and well into 2024.

Mr McCormack said dairy farmers have experienced severe spending cuts resulting in a reduction of spending by dairy farmers in rural Ireland.

This is being reported by businesses across rural communities that provide goods and services to dairy farmers and the wider dairy industry, according to the ICMSA.

From concrete to shed suppliers, to milking equipment to farm machinery, the reports coming back is that dairy farmers have stopped buying and investing, only the very basics are being purchased and this is going to have a dramatic impact on the local economy.

ICMSA has carried out a detailed analysis of each of the 26 counties to establish the reduction in revenues earned by dairy farmers over the last two years. Results show the dramatic drops in milk values with almost 2 billion less expected to be paid to dairy farmers in 2023 versus 2022, the ICMSA stated.

This is an astounding amount to lose from the rural economy as we all know that farmers spend in their local communities and many local services and companies are dependent on farmers. With an output multiplier of two for dairy, the total deficit from the Irish rural economy could be 4 billion for 2023, said Mr McCormack.

The analysis used an average milk price of 59cpl for 2022 and an expected average price of 37cpl for 2023, with production expected to fall by 2% year on year given the weather and price conditions prevailing at present. This would mean that almost 38% of dairy revenues have been wiped away in the space of 12 months and this analysis does not include the very severe cost elements facing dairy farmers, meaning that dairy farm incomes will be severely hit in 2023. While fertiliser has reduced somewhat, most fertiliser was purchased early in the year or last year at inflated prices and unfortunately, electricity and feed remain stubbornly high.

In conclusion, Mr McCormack said the milk price reductions have been very severe and will have a massive impact on dairy farmer income in 2023 and he called on the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Marine to immediately convene a meeting of the Dairy Forum so that a clear strategy can be put in place to kickstart an immediate recovery in milk price which is needed by the farmers who produce the milk on a daily basis but also the wider rural businesses that are dependent on it for their revenues.

Laois Offaly TD Carol Nolan described the projected figures as apocalyptic and profoundly stark.

What this data reveals is an absolute state of emergency within the Irish dairy sector, said Deputy Nolan.

In Offaly the losses in milk revenue for 2023 when compared to 2022 are in the order of a staggering 46.5 million, while the losses for Laois are even more troubling coming in at 64.6 million.

I wholeheartedly agree with the call that the ICMSA have made for the Minister for Agriculture to convene a meeting of the Dairy Forum so that a clear strategy can be put in place.

From the evidence presented today it is clear that our once thriving dairy sector is in a state of freefall. We must initiate actions to stop it from collapsing entirely, concluded Deputy Nolan.
A Senator based in Kildare has encouraged first-time home buyers to consider applying for a Local Authority Home Loan.

Fianna Fail Senator Fiona O'Loughlin made the comments today, in which she encouraged those seeking to purchase a new or second-hand home, as well as those who are considering building their own home, to apply for the loan.

Her sentiments were echoed by her party colleague, James Lawless TD.

Explaining her comments, Senator O'Loughlin said:

"A Local Authority Home Loan is a Government backed mortgage for creditworthy first time buyers (or those making a fresh start after a divorce, separation or bankruptcy) and is available nationwide from all Local Authorities.

It enables an applicant to borrow up to 90 per cent of the value of the property where they have proof of insufficient mortgage offers of finance from two regulated financial providers."

Senator Fiona O'Loughlin, Fianna Fail.

She continued: "We want and we need people to know that there are options when it comes to buying a home and the Local Authority Home Loan is one of a number of measures which is available to help.

"In March this year, the government made major improvements to the loan by increasing both the house price ceilings for all local authority areas and raising the income eligibility limits for applicants meaning it now applies to a wider base with more people eligible to apply.

"It is hard to buy a home in Ireland, no one is denying that, but there are real signs that the situation is improving and so its really important that people know there are several State backed measures to help them own a home."

"There has been an annual increase of 37.8 per cent in the total number of homes approved planning permission in Q1 2023.

"Commencement figures remain very strong and figures published just last week shows there were 2,985 homes commenced in July 2023, an increase of 22.4 per cent on the same time last year.

"14,069 homes were completed in the first half of 2023 which is the highest H1 completion total since records began in 2011."

The Senator added that she feels that the the Local Authority Home Loan 'is another tool in our armoury to help people, both young and not so young, to own their own home'.

"Id also encourage anyone considering buying a home to have a look at it or indeed the other State schemes such as the Help-to-Buy initiative, the First Home Scheme or the Vacant Property Grant," Senator O'Loughlin concluded.
Leitrim is the most heavily forested county, according to the latest Forestry Statistics Ireland report which found that the county has a total of 20.1% or 32,000 hectares of its land under forestry.

The most popular tree species in the State is Sitka spruce, which is grown commercially to produce timber products.

Around 44% of the forested area consists of Sitka spruce. Conifers make up 69% of national forest cover and broadleaves account for 30%.

Speaking to the Leitrim Observer, Cathaoirleach Justin Warnock, who is also a farmer and chairperson of Save Leitrim. "It's something we have known for a while and have been highlighting. Our main concern is, at what point does it stop. When the new forestry programme opens up are they going to go to the counties where there are only four or five per cent planted or continue on in Leitrim and destroy the social fabric and environment of our county."

The Cathaoirleach said that Save Leitrim was established to address this issue. "There was a lot of planting going on in Leitrim and people weren't organised to challenge it so, in our time, we have taken two High Court cases, judicial reviews and we have been to Europe as a result of it. So we are highlighting the problem. If 20 per cent of your county is planted that means that 20 per cent of the people are gone; the rural schools are closing and that has decimated our county."

He said that the trees are not benefitting the climate. "If anyone takes the time to look at forestry plantations, they are more densely planted than sitka spruce. A lot of the forests were planted on peat and emitting rather than holding carbon."
Pierre Junior Ebollo still cannot believe it. The director of the Eden cinema in Douala, Cameroon's economic capital, continues to express his disbelief regarding the country's August 21 ban on screening the globally successful Barbie. "This film does not promote homosexuality. There is no scene that talks about that, either in dialogue or action. The film was shown several times to parents and their children. Not a single parent came out of the theater to complain," he said.

After Vietnam, Algeria, and Kuwait banned the Gerwig film for "undermining public morals" and "promoting homosexuality and sex changes," Cameroon barred access to the movie after just one month in cinemas.

Cameroon remains a country where homosexuality is heavily penalized. Article 347-1 of the Penal Code provides "a sentence of six months to five years' imprisonment and a fine of up to 200,000 francs for any person who has sexual relations with a person of the same sex." At the end of June, Jean-Marc Berthon, the French ambassador for LGBTQ+ rights, was due to visit Yaounde, but his visit was finally canceled in the face of government opposition.

"We ban any film that doesn't fit in with our values. We censor all films whose content is not appropriate for our young people. The film Barbie has content that is not acceptable to them," Professor Fai Donatius Tangem, Director of Cinematography and Audiovisual Productions at the Ministry of Arts and Culture, told Le Monde Afrique.

'Blocking the way to negative influences'

He said the feature film was banned "the day after screening" by the Ministry's National Commission for the Control of Cinematographic Films and Sound Recordings. According to a document obtained by Le Monde, Barbie was refused a distribution license and banned from screening on July 22. "According to the law, the commission has 60 days to view, analyze, and give its opinion (...) It's up to the exhibitors to make sure of the result. They didn't," in the case of Barbie, Tangem said

"Barbie was released in our cinemas on July 21, after passing the censorship commission, which did not notify us that it was banned," Ebollo said. During screenings, when commission members notice scenes that do not correspond to "Cameroonian morals or the law, they let us know immediately. They notify us directly, even before reporting to the minister that the film must be censored," he added. Without a negative response, cinema operators in Cameroon scheduled Barbie "while awaiting the distribution license." "It's usually like that for most films because if we wait for the license, we'll be late with worldwide distribution and unable to make any money. We were convinced that Barbie was approved. We've never received a note or anything," according to a manager at another cinema, who spoke on condition of anonymity.

Read more Article reserve a nos abonnes Barbie's worldwide success goes hand in hand with controversy

Online articles and messages on social networks said the film, which has already grossed over $1 billion worldwide, promoted homosexuality, which is also punishable by law in Cameroon. In a press release on August 18, the minister of arts and culture, Pierre Ismael Bidoung Mkpatt, protested against "the proliferation of works without official licenses, not displaying age restrictions." The minister also reminded cinema operators that compliance with the sector's laws helps to "respect ethics and public morals, preserve good morals and national cultural traditions, and block the way to negative influences on young people."

Stunned

Professionals were stunned. "The ban that has finally been imposed is backdated," said Ebollo. "They're trying to blame us, and I don't accept it. At no time did the people who came to see the film mention that this film should not be played."

According to Le Monde findings, the ministry will summon the promoters on Wednesday, August 30. Some already believe that "heavy fines" await them.

Read more Article reserve a nos abonnes Algeria's ban on the 'Barbie' movie met with bewilderment

"It's an injustice. We showed Barbie because it had never been banned. The minister, cornered by public opinion, wants to hold us responsible," said a cinema manager, adding the censorship was "already impacting revenue" when cinemas are trying to survive in a context marked by the high cost of living.

After the boom of the 1980s, movie theaters closed steadily in the 1990s and 2000s. Today, the country has just five. According to Ebollo, it was time for the authorities to review the 1988 law on cinema and "beef up the censorship commission," adding representatives of civil society, such as clerics and teachers, so that their decision is "immediate and definitive."
Smoke rises as a wildfire burns at Dadia National Park in the region of Evros, Greece, on August 29, 2023. ALEXANDROS AVRAMIDIS / REUTERS

A massive wildfire was burning unabated in northeastern Greece for the 11th day on Tuesday, August 29, despite the efforts of hundreds of firefighters and a fleet of water-dropping aircraft from Greece and several of its European Union partners.

After burning across vast tracts of land, the blaze in the Alexandroupolis and Evros region was mainly concentrated deep in a forest near the border with Turkey, in an area difficult to access. The wildfire, which was blamed for 20 of the 21 wildfire-related deaths in Greece last week, is the biggest in the EU since record keeping started in 2000.

Read more Article reserve a nos abonnes Deadly new fires are ravaging Greece

Six planes and four helicopters were assisting 475 firefighters on the ground, backed by 100 vehicles, the fire department said. Another 260 firefighters and one helicopter were tackling flare-ups of another major fire burning for days in a forest on the southern slopes of Mount Parnitha, on the fringes of the Greek capital. Authorities are investigating the causes of the fires, which over the past week have destroyed large tracts of forest, scorched homes and triggered the evacuation of thousands of people.

In Athens, Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis chaired a government meeting on how to rehabilitate the burnt forests in Evros and Parnitha. It decided to identify all burned areas for reforestation, take action to prevent flooding later in the year and provide access to food and water for the area's surviving wildlife.

With firefighting forces stretched to the limit, Greece has called for help from other European countries, receiving 12 aircraft and hundreds of firefighters from across the continent. France and Spain were sending additional aircraft to join those already sent from Germany, Sweden, Croatia, Cyprus and the Czech Republic under the EU's emergency response mechanism. More than 350 firefighters have also been sent to Greece from Romania, France, the Czech Republic, Bulgaria, Albania, Slovakia and Serbia.

Read more Article reserve a nos abonnes Racism flares up as Greeks blame migrants for wildfires

The top EU official for crisis management, Janez Lenarcic, said Tuesday that it was the bloc's largest aerial firefighting operation and "underscores our commitment to swift and effective collective action in times of crisis."

74 wildfires

The Alexandroupolis and Evros wildfire, which broke out on August 19, has scorched more than 81,000 hectares of land, according to the European Union's Copernicus Emergency Management Service. Copernicus is the EU space program's Earth observation component and uses satellite imagery to provide mapping data. The European Commission described it Tuesday as the largest single blaze recorded in the bloc since the European Forest Fire Information System began recording data in 2000.

Across Greece, firefighters were battling 74 wildfires on Monday, with 27 of them having broken out in the 24 hours between Sunday evening and Monday evening, the fire department said. Arson has been suspected in some of the blazes, with several people arrested. Greece imposes wildfire prevention regulations, typically from the start of May to the end of October, limiting activities such as the burning of dried vegetation and the use of outdoor barbecues.

As of Friday, fire department officials had arrested 163 people on fire-related charges since the start of the fire prevention season, including 118 for negligence and 24 for deliberate arson, government spokesperson Pavlos Marinakis said. Police made an additional 18 arrests, he said.
Iraqi soldiers in Ramadi, Iraq, on May 17, 2015. AP

A member of an elite French commando unit was killed on Monday, August 28, in Iraq while "supporting an Iraqi unit in an anti-terrorist operation," the French presidency said. Sergeant Nicolas Mazier, an air force paratrooper, "fell in combat while carrying out his mission," the Elysee said in a statement, expressing French President Emmanuel Macron's "profound respect" for his "sacrifice." Other soldiers from the unit were also wounded, the Elysee added.

An Iraqi security source in northeastern Kirkuk told Agence France-Presse Iraqi and French troops were ambushed by Islamic State group fighters late on Monday in a neighboring province. In a battle lasting "more than five hours," an unknown number of French troops as well as three members of Iraq's anti-terrorist forces were wounded, the source added.

Mazier is the third French soldier to lose his life this month in Iraq, where the country's troops form part of Operation Inherent Resolve, a years-long campaign by an international coalition against Islamic State. Two men, Sergeant Baptiste Gauchot and Officer Nicolas Latourte, were killed in separate incidents in August, the first in a traffic accident and the second during a training exercise.
Gabonese citizens wait outside a polling station in Libreville on election day, August 26, 2023. STRINGER / REUTERS

A Gabon isolated from the rest of the world is awaiting the results of the country's general elections held on Saturday, August 26, in which the Bongo family may lose the power they have held since 1967. Weakened by a stroke in 2018, Ali Bongo Ondimba, who succeeded his father in 2009, is seeking a third term in office.

After forbidding international observers from being present and refusing to grant foreign journalists accreditation, the government cut off Internet access as soon as the vote ended and imposed a curfew from 7:00 pm to 6:00 am on Sunday, citing the risk of "spreading calls for violence and false information." Immediately after, broadcasts by RFI, France 24 and TV5 Monde, which have a strong local following, were suspended. They were accused of "lacking objectivity and balance in their coverage of the current elections."

"These decisions are totally unacceptable. There is no justification for them other than to prepare for an electoral coup and the Bongo family, once again, taking the country hostage. The voting took place calmly and without any major incidents, apart from occasional organizational issues due to incompetent electoral institutions" said Georges Mpaga, executive president of the Reseau des organisations libres pour la bonne gouvernance (Network of Free Organizations for Good Governance in Gabon, ROLBG). Some polling stations opened four to six hours after the legal opening time. It was also reported that ballot papers for opposition candidates were nowhere to be found.

Together with the Consortium de la societe civile pour la transparence electorale et la democratie (Civil Society Consortium for Electoral Transparency and Democracy) and the Central Africa Human Rights Defenders Network, the organization was able to send observers around the country to witness the counting of the single-round ballot to which around 850,000 voters were invited to choose the future president, MPs and mayors.

'Exasperation'

In a joint statement issued on Monday, August 28, these organizations called for all restrictions to be lifted and for "the thousands of heavily armed soldiers and security forces deployed to intimidate and create a frenzy among the public" to return to their barracks. They are also calling on Ali Bongo to accept "the truth of the ballot box," the first trends of which, according to them, show a clear lead for the opposing candidate. Estimates drawn from the parallel counting of results they carried out on a sample of 1,000 polling stations attribute "68% of the votes cast" to Albert Ondo Ossa, the candidate of the Alternance 2023 platform. The 13 other candidates, including the outgoing president, took the remaining 32%.

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Japan's embassy in Beijing said Tuesday, August 29, it was "extremely worried" about recent harassment by local people over Tokyo's release of treated wastewater from the Fukushima nuclear plant.

"We find this very regrettable and feel extremely worried," an embassy press officer told AFP. They urged Beijing to "ensure the safety of these embassies and consulates in China in accordance with international law, including some facilities related to Japan, and including Japanese people."

Read more Article reserve a nos abonnes China outraged over Fukushima power plant water release

Asked by AFP about reports that Chinese people had thrown bricks at Tokyo's embassy in Beijing and made harassing phone calls, the press officer confirmed they were true. "Some individuals have come to our (embassy) entrance," they said. "They took these kinds of actions then were led away by armed police," they explained. "Harassing calls are answered every day, especially on weekends, beginning last Thursday and Friday, delaying our normal work," they added.

Last week, China banned all seafood imports from its neighbor as Japan began releasing cooling water from the crippled Fukushima plant in an operation that Tokyo and the United Nations' nuclear watchdog have said is safe.

Since then, Japan has urged its citizens in China to keep a low profile and has increased security around schools and diplomatic missions. Businesses in Japan, meanwhile, have been swamped with nuisance calls from Chinese numbers.

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida on Monday urged China to ensure its people "act in a calm and responsible manner".
Angry demonstration outside the Libyan Foreign Ministry in Tripoli on August 27, 2023, following the "chance" meeting in Rome the day before between Libyan Foreign Minister Najla Al-Mangoush and her Israeli counterpart Eli Cohen. HANI AMARA / REUTERS

Roads had been blocked, tires burned and the prime minister's home attacked. In Libya, the announcement on Sunday, August 28, of a meeting between Libyan Foreign Minister Najla Al-Mangoush and her Israeli counterpart Eli Cohen provoked incendiary reactions. The enthusiastic press release from Israel's Ministry of Foreign Affairs echoed the news of a "groundbreaking" meeting in Rome last week aimed at "examining possibilities for cooperation and relations between the countries and the preservation of the heritage of the Libyan Jewish community."

But the meeting, kept secret in Tripoli, did not go down well in Libya, a country that does not recognize the existence of Israel and where normalizing relations with the Jewish state is punishable by criminal sanctions. The news caused quite a stir. On Sunday afternoon, the Libyan Presidential Council asked the head of the national unity government, Abdelhamid Dbeibah, for "clarification" on the meeting, pointing out that it "does not reflect the foreign policy of the Libyan state, does not represent the Libyan national constants and is considered a violation of Libyan laws which criminalize normalization with the 'Zionist entity.'" The Ministry of Foreign Affairs was quick to respond, pleading "a chance and unofficial encounter during a meeting with Italys foreign minister," which did not involve any "talks, agreements or consultation."

Read more Libya suspends foreign minister over talks with Israeli counterpart

Whatever the details, the answer was not convincing. A crowd of demonstrators gathered in front of the ministry's offices in Tripoli in the evening to demand "the fall of the government." Further east, other groups formed and set fire to the residence of Prime Minister Dbeibah. In Tajoura, Zaouia and several other large towns in western Libya, numerous demonstrations were organized. Cornered, the prime minister finally decided overnight to suspend Mangoush from her duties and announced that she would face an "administrative investigation." The deposed minister has since fled to Turkey aboard a private jet, according to the Libyan press.

'Scapegoat'

By blaming his foreign minister, Dbeibah is pleading ignorance of such a meeting and using her as a "scapegoat," according to Jalel Harchaoui, associate researcher at the Royal United Services Institute for Defence and Security Studies. There is "no doubt" that the prime minister was aware of the meeting, a fact confirmed by two Libyan officials speaking on condition of anonymity to the Associated Press. "Dbeibah has already sent signals of his willingness to talk to Israel," the researcher observed, pointing out that the prime minister, whose official term expired in December 2021, is "actively seeking to please foreign nations" to keep himself in power.

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The U.S. Department of Transportation is fining American Airlines $4.1 million over its habit of loading passengers onto planes and leaving them for hours on the tarmac. The fine, citing 43 flights and 5,800 passengers, works out to about $700 for each traveler affected, with the fine split between them and the government.

In the longest of the delays, passengers sat aboard a plane in Texas in August 2020 for six hours and three minutes. The 105-passenger flight had landed after being diverted from the Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport due to severe weather, with the DOT alleging that "American lacked sufficient resources to appropriately handle several of these flights once they landed."

American Airlines blames the weather.
Emmanuel Macron at the ambassadors' conference at the Elysee Palace, August 28, 2023. TERESA SUAREZ / AFP

The coup in Niger, devastating for France's commitment to the Sahel, is weighing on Emmanuel Macron's diplomatic return. This summer, the president followed the day-by-day twists and turns of the military coup of July 26 against one of Paris' closest allies on the African continent, President Mohamed Bazoum, who has since been sequestered with his family. As Niger's coup plotters stepped up their pressure on Paris, Macron attempted, on Monday, August 28, at the opening of the 29th conference of French ambassadors at the Elysee Palace, to defend France's presence in a country at all costs. This, without abandoning any of the firmness displayed since the putsch, even if it means antagonizing the new regime.

"The weakness that some have shown toward previous putsches has fed regional vocations. There is an epidemic of putsches throughout the Sahel," asserted the French president, referring to the successive military coups that have taken place over the past three years in Mali, Burkina Faso, Guinea and Niger. It was a way of showing that France continues to hope that President Bazoum will return to business in Niamey, and intends to maintain its presence in the country, against the advice of the ruling junta. In Niger, "our policy is simple," he added. "We do not recognize the putschists, we support a president who has not resigned, and to whose side we remain committed. And we support a diplomatic solution, or a military one when it is decided, by ECOWAS [the Economic Community of West African States]."

Read more Article reserve a nos abonnes Confrontation between France and Niger junta intensifies

Sylvain Itte, the French ambassador to Niger, who was ordered to leave the country by the junta on Friday, was one of the rare absentees from the three-day gathering of French ambassadors in Paris. Macron paid tribute to his work in Niamey. For the French authorities, there is no question of Itte returning to Paris under these conditions. "I think our policy is the right one. It is based on the courage of President Bazoum, on the commitment of our ambassador on the ground, who remains despite all the pressures, despite all the declarations by the illegitimate authorities," insisted Macron.

Since the coup, Macron and his entourage consider that the situation in Niger is not similar to those they faced in Mali and Burkina Faso, two states from which France withdrew after putsches against elected presidents. "France's position towards the Niger junta was from the outset firmer than that initially adopted in Mali, when the first coup d'etat took place in 2020, and then in Burkina Faso in January 2022. Whereas in the two previous cases, Paris had given itself a chance to work with the putschists, in Niger relations became strained in just a few days," said Elie Tenenbaum, Director of the Center for Security Studies at the French Institute of International Relations (IFRI). "While the United States has remained more reticent in its denunciation of the junta  and does not formally speak of a 'coup d'etat'  the rejection of France by the new Niger authorities is also the result of this differentiated approach," added the researcher.

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A trailblazing archaeologist, who has been hailed for "putting Limerick on the map", was conferred with an honorary doctorate by the University of Limerick.

Archaeologist Rose Cleary received the title alongside leading advocate for survivors of sexual abuse, Maeve Lewis.

The pair were honoured for their outstanding contribution to society.

The recipients joined 3,500 graduates being conferred at UL over five days as part of the 2023 Autumn Conferring.

We are delighted to bestow the Universitys highest award to two honorary doctorate recipients today  an occasion that always greatly adds to the breadth and calibre of those we are privileged to count among our community, said Professor Kerstin Mey, president of UL.

Both of our recipients are leaders by example, and we are delighted that Rose and Maeve have both joined our roll of honour here at UL," she added.

Rose Cleary, who has been hailed for her contribution in putting Limerick on the map as a county of exceptional archaeological, historical, and cultural importance, said she was delighted and honoured to receive the honorary doctorate from UL.

I suppose it reflects all these years working in archaeology here and as well as that I owe the county a lot because they allowed me to work here for over 40 years, I had a great time while I was at it and I made a lot of friends here, Dr Cleary explained.

Asked about the significance of Lough Gur in County Limerick as an archaeological site, Dr Cleary said there was new discoveries happening every day out there.

It is a hugely important archaeological landscape in Ireland; apart from the fact that it has been inhabited for about 9,000 years, it has a whole load of visible monuments  and you can actually see a lot of the remains of house sites and the stone circles and all the rest of it. It was a privilege for me to work there all this time.

Meave Lewis, an alumnus of UL who graduated from University of Limerick (then NIHE) in 1979, said:

It is an incredible honour to receive this honorary doctorate  part of me cant believe that the

University is giving me such an honour. It is wonderful to be here with my Mum and family and

friends here today.



Asked what advice she would give to students graduating this week, Dr Lewis said: Graduates today are facing problems that my generation didnt have to face, in particular climate change, dealing with AI  so what I would say to them is to be brave, be courageous, not to settle for a career but to find something that inspires them, excites them and where they really can make a change.
STAFF of one of the city centres most well-known bookshops have been honoured by Limerick Tidy Towns.

The group has afforded its fourth bi-monthly award for 2023 to OMahonys bookshop located in the heart of OConnell Street.

Maura ONeill of Tidy Towns said they were impressed by the fact that workers at the bookshop continuously maintain a beautifully-presented exterior.

Throughout many changes to our city centre over the past 120 years, not least the huge redevelopment that has recently been completed on OConnell Street, OMahonys Booksellers, one of Limericks best known and most-beloved businesses has continued to thrive. It has diverse, imaginative window displays and attractive flowerbeds at the entrance. It is a great asset to our city centre, and we are delighted to present our latest bi-monthly award to them, she said.

The bookshop was founded in 1902 by JP OMahony, the grandfather of the current owner, Frank.

Its continued to trade from the same location and is one of the oldest retail businesses of its type in the region.

A family business, OMahonys is one of the largest independent book sellers in the country.

It becomes Limerick City Tidy Towns fourth winner of 2023, since they switched to bi-monthly awards this year.

It will, as a result, be in with a chance to be the overall winner for 2023 at next years annual event.

They will stand alongside the January-February winner Dolans, March-April winner Rift Cafe and May-June winner The Flower Studio

If you wish to nominate a business in the city for an award or volunteer with Limerick City Tidy Towns, they meet every Sunday morning at 11am at the corner of Thomas Street and OConnell Street, and on Wednesday evenings at 6pm outside the White House during summer months.
A woman aged in her 20s has been charged by gardai investigating an alleged fatal assault in Co Donegal.

She had been rearrested by gardai on Monday and was due to appear at a special sitting of Letterkenny District Court on Tuesday morning.

A body was previously recovered from the water by gardai investigating the alleged assault, which was reported to have occurred in the Slieve League/Killybegs areas of Co Donegal on either Saturday June 24 or Sunday June 25.

A major search operation was initiated on the mountain and the coastal waters below it in the days following the report.

A man in his 30s and a woman in her 20s arrested in June in connection with the alleged assault were later released without charge.

The 38-year-old man was then rearrested in the county in July and was charged with murder.

Alan Vial, of Drumanoo Head, Killybegs, was charged with the murder of Robert Wilkin, originally from Northern Ireland, at an unknown place on Sunday June 25.

The woman, who was rearrested on Monday, was detained at a garda station in Donegal under section four of the Criminal Justice Act 1984.
Pieta, Irelands National Suicide Prevention charity have just launched their new fundraising campaign, Go Amber ahead of World Suicide Prevention Day 2023.

In advance of World Suicide Prevention Day this September, Pieta is inviting businesses to sign-up, fundraise and donate to help tackle suicide.

The Go Amber campaign will kick off on World Suicide Prevention Day on September 10 and run until October 10, coinciding with World Mental Health Day.

Stephanie Manahan, Pieta CEO said: This year, the theme for World Suicide Prevention day is Creating Hope Through Action and by rallying Irish SMEs and communities we are showcasing the remarkable impact the collective action can achieve.

We invite businesses of all sizes to join us, engage in fundraising events, donate generously, and help spread awareness of Pietas crucial services by connecting with local communities and creating hope through action.

This marks the first ever fundraising campaign by Pieta around these important dates as the charity reflects on the difference made to over 70,000 lives since Pieta began in 2006.

This year alone Pieta has already provided over 26,000 free therapy hours across the country. Fundraising and donations covers over 85% of the cost of services.
Google is selling broad access to its most powerful artificial-intelligence technology for the first time as it races to make up ground in the lucrative cloud-software market.

Thomas Kurian, chief executive officer of Google Cloud, outlined the offerings to thousands of customers at Googles annual cloud conference in San Francisco on Tuesday, while making widely available a number of tools that can help draft emails or summarize lengthy documents stored in the cloud.

The new products will intensify competition with Microsoft, the second-largest cloud provider, and OpenAI, the ChatGPT creator it has backed with billions of dollars. Both companies already sell access to the latest AI technology behind the popular ChatGPT bot, but Googles launch on Tuesday puts it ahead of Microsoft in making AI-powered office software easily available for all customers.

Google also used the event to showcase customer uses of its technology, including a planned GE Appliances app that uses Googles AI models to create recipes based on the food in a customers fridge.

The efforts are Googles latest attempt to spark growth in the cloud business, an important part of CEO Sundar Pichais attempts to reduce dependence on its cash-cow search engine. Recent advances in AI, and the computing resources they require, have added extra urgency to turn the technology into profitable products.

Googles infrastructure and software offerings produce $32 billion in annual sales, about 10% of total revenue at parent company Alphabet. Its cloud unit turned a quarterly operating profit for the first time this year.That still leaves Google firmly in third place in the cloud behind Amazon and Microsoft.

Kurian has likened generative AI to the invention of cloud computing decades ago, a development that allowed files to be stored on remote servers rather than local devices and accessed through the internet.

Google will make widely available its current large PaLM 2 model, which powers many of the companys generative-AI features. It was previously only available for handpicked customers. The company also will make available AI technology developed by Facebook-owner Meta Platforms and the startup Anthropic, in which it is an investor.

The company also announced Tuesday the general availability of a suite of AI-powered tools for corporate Gmail accounts and other workplace software products. The tools will cost an extra $30 a month per person, matching the price Microsoft will charge for a competing offering in its flagship 365 suite, which is still in testing with select businesses.

Googles ability to deliver on its cloud pitch will largely depend on whether it can secure enough chips to meet the demands of its growing customer base. The generative AI boom has placed greater pressure on executives who help divide computing resources between customers and Googles own products, such as its namesake search engine.

Kurian said Google Cloud has enough resources to meet customer needs. Google has shifted the mix of chips in its data centers toward processors that can handle AI applications, he said.

Requests for AI-computing resources have nearly exceeded long-range expectations the cloud business set more than a year ago, Kurian added.

Many businesses are still early in experimenting with generative AI, and it is uncertain most will find productive uses for the tech. Users have also reported diminished performance recently in popular products such as ChatGPT.

When the technology is really useful, people tend to stay with it," Kurian said in an interview before the event, citing data showing that workers using an AI writing tool in Gmail were sending roughly 30% more emails than normal.

Pichai said in an interview that Google was aggressively adding resources needed to run AI software, while adding a note of caution about the companys ability to plan for the future.

Its tough to fully predict the demand," Pichai said. I think we will be OK, but does it keep me up at night? Yes."

Pichai said Google will offer Gemini, its answer to the AI system behind OpenAIs breakout ChatGPT, to cloud customers once the model is developed. Google co-founder Sergey Brin has been working almost full time at the company with researchers developing the model, The Wall Street Journal reported.

An early developer of generative AI and specialized chips that power the technology, Google has found itself playing catch up at times since the release of ChatGPT in November. Google Cloud, the companys largest division by head count, has played a central role in its response.

Google Cloud oversees data centers holding the valuable chips that power large algorithms, pieces of hardware that have grown in importance as AI systems suck up greater quantities of data. Those include TPUs, a kind of processor Google began using in 2015 to develop its AI models.

Kurian also announced Tuesday, alongside Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang, that a large cluster of Nvidias newest AI chips, the H100, will become generally available to Google Cloud customers sampling a growing range of its AI offerings. Googles TPUs also will become accessible for a wider range of tasks.

Character Technologies, whose chatbot app has attracted more than 20 million registered users, struck a deal in May to access Google Cloud TPUs and GPUs, the graphics chips used in AI systems. CEO Noam Shazeer said the company could still use more chips.

The computing capabilities are improving a lot, but the applications are improving even more," said Shazeer, who pushed for Google to release a chatbot to the public before leaving the company in 2021. There will be trillions of dollars worth of value and product chasing tens of billions of dollars worth of hardware."
Reliance Industries Limited (RIL) Chairman Mukesh Ambani announced that RIL's Jio would introduce new AI systems, similar to OpenAI 's ChatGPT , for India. Ambani expressed a commitment to provide AI accessibility to all Indians and lead in creating India-specific AI models and solutions. Interestingly, this announcement seems to follow OpenAI CEO Sam Altman's comments about India's AI efforts being "hopeless," which he later clarified as being taken out of context.

Ambani, in what is perceived as a direct response to OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, declared during Reliance Industries Limited's (RIL) 46th Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Monday that Jio, a subsidiary of RIL, is set to introduce cutting-edge artificial intelligence (AI) systems akin to OpenAI's ChatGPT for the benefit of the Indian populace.

Jio promises AI to everyone, everywhere. And we shall deliver," Ambani said at Reliance's 46th Annual General Meeting (AGM).

Furthermore, he expressed Jio Platforms' intention to spearhead the endeavor to create AI models tailored for India and offer AI-driven solutions spanning various sectors, ensuring that the advantages of AI reach all segments of the Indian population, including individuals, enterprises, and government entities.

Introduced in September 2016, Jio has now become the largest mobile operator in India. During the AGM on Monday, Ambani highlighted that Jio has amassed a subscriber base exceeding 450 million (45 crore) since its inception.

To recall, in June, the CEO of OpenAI made a visit to the nation. While conversing with Rajan Anandan, the former head of Google India, Altman referred to India's endeavors to develop an AI tool akin to ChatGPT as "hopeless."

We will explicitly tell you that it's completely hopeless to challenge us in training foundational models, and you shouldn't even attempt it. However, it is your responsibility to still make the attempt, and I genuinely hold both of these perspectives. I genuinely believe that the chances of success are quite slim," Altman commented.

Subsequently, he provided a clarification, stating in a social media post that his statement had been misconstrued and "taken out of context."

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Union Minister Nitin Gadkari will launch the world's first BS-VI (Stage-II), electric flex-fuel vehicle today. The launch of a new 100% ethanol-fueled variant of Toyota's Innova is being seen as a broader push by the government for using alternative fuels like hydrogen, flex-fuel, biofuel etc. in a bid to reduce carbon footprint and decrease the country's dependency on traditional fuel sources.

Here are 5 things you should know:

1) Union Minister Nitin Gadkari had recently announced at the Mint Sustainability Summit 2023 that he would be unveiling a new version of the Toyota Innova car that will run on 100 per cent ethanol.

2) The new car will be the world's first BS-VI (Stage-II), electrified flex-fuel vehicle. Gadkari had then said that the new car would also generate 40 percent electricity bringing the effective price of ethanol much lower.

3) Gadkari noted that India has to reduce its dependence on oil imports in order to become self-reliant. He said, If we want to become Atamnirbhar (self-reliant) we have to bring this oil import to zero. At present it is 16 lakh crore. This is a big loss to the economy. India needs to take more sustainable measures as pollution is a big problem in the country,"

4) The Union Road Transport and Highways Minister noted that the country needs to undertake more sustainability measures in order to curb pollution. He said, "Ecology and the environment are very important. We need to reduce air and water pollution. We have to improve the quality of water in our rivers. This is a big challenge. We need to protect our ecology and environment,"

5) Last year, Gadkari had launched a hydrogen-powered car, the Toyota Mirai EV. The car was launched as a pilot project aimed at creating a Green Hydrogen based ecosystem in India by creating awareness about the utility of Green Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle (FCEV) technology.

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Toyota has halted operations at most of its assembly plants in Japan due to a malfunction in the company's production system. Operations were halted on Tuesday morning and a company spokesman said it wasn't clear whether they would resume in the afternoon shift.

Toyota is the world's biggest carmaker by sales and its 14 Japanese plants account for about a third of the company's global production, Reuters reported.

A Toyota spokesman told Reuters that the problem was "probably not due to a cyber attack". He noted that all of the company's domestic assembly plants, with the exception of the Miyata and Kyoto plants, were shut down.

A cyber-attack on one of Toyota's suppliers last year halted the company's operations for a day, resulting in a loss of production of around 13,000 cars.

Toyota uses a just-in-time inventory management system, which helps keep costs down but also means that problems in the supply chain can jeopardise production.

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In the intricate dance of warp and weft, the art of jamdani weaving tells a tale as old as time, one that mirrors the vibrant tapestry of life in the Indian subcontinent. The connection between woven art and life, whether it is art that reflects life or as Oscar Wilde said, life that imitates art, finds its splendid harmony in the exquisite artistry of jamdani weaves. The translucent beauty of jamdani celebrates the work of generations of artisans who have applied artistic genius and mathematical precision to turn cotton and silk into elaborate motifs. Heralded as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO in 2013, the tradition of jamdani weaving stands as a testament to the rich heritage of the Bengal region.

From August 2527, at the Taj Palace Hotel in New Delhi, ArtixIndias first hotel art fair that featured an exciting brand that is redefining the alliance of conceptual art and heritage of the Indian subcontinent. Designer Tarina Sen, of the brand TARINA seeks to reinvent the intricate dance of warp and weft, meticulously woven into the fabric of jamdani, to embody not only the essence of this craft but also the very spirit of life itself in the region. With the collection, Memo MIL" at Artix, visitors were transported into a world where threads narrated stories and patterns that painted both the contemporaneity and the history of a rich cultural tapestry.

Tarina's journey into the realm of jamdani commenced with a personal and emotional connection. It was her mother-in-law's graceful draping of traditional jamdani dhakai sarees, meticulously starched and worn with pride, that left an imprint on Tarina's heart.

Tarina offers a glimpse into transformative power of jamdani. What began as an affectionate tribute to her mother-in-law gradually evolved into an unwavering commitment to the craft and its artisans. If it ain't broke, don't fix it," Tarina muses, acknowledging the centuries-old mastery that resides within the hands of weavers. This commitment led Tarina to take a step away from the conventional representation of the fabric and explore new avenues while preserving the essence of traditional jamdani work.

View Full Image Tarina offers a glimpse into transformative power of jamdani.

I'm trying to move away from the stereotyped representation of the fabric, flesh out new styles and designs, Tarina explains. Her artistic endeavour breathes fresh life into jamdani while respecting its intrinsic foundation. Memo MIL serves as a testament to the art of envisioning a new era while honouring the heritage that underpins it.

While the appreciation for traditional Indian weaves is on the rise, the sustenance of artisans and their families remains a challenge. TARINA works with weavers in situ across villages in Bengal, while also having established their own karkhaana in Bhubhaneshwar, to ensure the skills are not lost. But without a holistic approach to safeguarding this intricate originality of form and technique, the artistic brilliance of Jamdani weaves risks fading into obscurity, which is what has inspired Memo MIL. The finest way to pay tribute to an ancient art is to carve out a space for it within contemporaneous contexts, thoughtfully re-conceptualizing it in a way that incorporates the whimsical touches of modern art while ensuring the techniques remain the same.

View Full Image TARINA works with weavers in situ across villages in Bengal, while also having established their own karkhaana in Bhubhaneshwar, to ensure the skills are not lost.

The Memo MIL collection embodies an era of reinterpretation, capturing the essence of origin and the journey of heritage. The series Unsettled Dust, of hand-spun handloom tapestries, feature Maa Durga as the protagonist and delve into the concept of Whitewashing, a phase of revisionism to find our roots. This theme, inspired by Jean Baudrillard's insights, is a poignant reminder of craftsmanship's role in preserving civilization's triumphs.

These tapestries, created with meticulous attention, employ a play of contrasts using heavier threads for the design against a cotton background. They capture the unsettled dust of Kolkata's streets, the majestic Howrah Bridge, and the fading yellow taxis, all reflecting the intricate struggle of humanity. Maa Durga's descent on Mahalaya, her symbolic triumph over inner darkness, resonates deeply, magnifying Bengal's devotion and creativity.

In another facet, the installation titled Go fishing, not phishing! invites contemplation of life's simplicity and contentment. The rhythmic repetition of shapes and colours in the fabric forms a captivating dance, reminiscent of the iconic arcade game, Pac-Man.

Memo Mil is a call to action, an appeal to protect and sustain an art form that encapsulates the essence of the Indian subcontinent. As visitors immerse themselves in the intricate patterns and delicate beauty, they are invited to be a part of the narrativeone that weaves together past, present, and future, uniting the rich tapestry of human experience.

You can follow TARINA on Instagram @tarina.in

https://www.instagram.com/tarina.in/

TARINA will be launching its website soon https://www.tarina.in

Contact details - +91-9938887871 or connect@tarina.in

Disclaimer: This article is a paid publication and does not have journalistic/editorial involvement of Hindustan Times. Hindustan Times does not endorse/subscribe to the content(s) of the article/advertisement and/or view(s) expressed herein. Hindustan Times shall not in any manner, be responsible and/or liable in any manner whatsoever for all that is stated in the article and/or also with regard to the view(s), opinion(s), announcement(s), declaration(s), affirmation(s) etc., stated/featured in the same.

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Eight U.S. states now provide meals to schoolchildren free of charge, with Colorado, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, New Mexico and Vermont joining California and Maine in the new academic year. It's was effectively trialed during the Covid pandemic, and advocates are urging congress to act on nationwide plans.

Schools nationwide offered free meals to all at the height of the pandemic, which sent participation soaring. But when federal aid ran out in spring 2022, most states reverted to free or discounted meals only for kids who qualified. That left out families that weren't poor enough, stigmatized those who were, and added to growing school meal debt. "We know that students learn better when they are well nourished," said Emily Honer, director of nutrition programs for the Minnesota Department of Education. "And we know that students a lot of time don't know where their meal is going to come from. We're taking that (fear) away."

"School meal debt" is one of the most casually shocking things in America, and it's up against strong competition. Children in debt for food to their schools.

Lorraine Martinez, the school secretary, said some children used to suffer stomach cramps or would feel dizzy because they didn't have enough to eat. "Now everybody has the food and water and milk  the nutrition  that they need," she said.

Republicans want to ban free school lunch provision outright, among other things, to help pay for permanent tax cuts for the wealthiest Americans.
Former Chief Operating Officer (COO) of BharatPe, Dhruv Dhanraj Bahl, who had recently been reassigned as the Chief Business Officer for the merchant lending division, is set to step down from the company in September, as reported by The Economic Times citing sources.

As per the report, merchant lending has emerged as a significant source of revenue and a pivotal sector for the company. In a strategic move to strengthen its lending operations, BharatPe had unveiled its acquisition of a controlling stake in Mumbai's Trillion Loans, a non-banking financial company (NBFC), in May.

Mint could not independently confirm the development.

BharatPe's impact within the lending sector has been notable, with the company claiming to facilitate loans surpassing 500 crore monthly for its array of merchant partners.

Bahl's exit comes in the wake of a series of high-level resignations that the fintech firm has experienced over the past year and a half.

Also Read: Admission to nursery in Delhi schools tougher than IIT entrance: Ashneer Grover

"We would like to confirm that Bahl is moving on from BharatPe to pursue his entrepreneurial passions. He has been an integral part of the organisation and contributed to the growth of the company," the company spokesperson told Economic Times.

Bahl played a pivotal role in overseeing the reorganization of the company following Grover's exit. His association with BharatPe began in 2020 when he joined as the Head of Operations. Prior to his tenure at BharatPe, he had contributed to various organizations including Airtel Payments Bank, Paytm Bank, and Fortis Healthcare.

Also Read: FIR against BharatPe ex-MD Ashneer Grover, family for defrauding the fintech of 81 cr

According to ET citing the source mentioned earlier, Bahl is anticipated to establish an early-stage investment firm, aligning himself with the likes of his former colleagues Suhail Sameer and Bhavik Koladiya. However, the source declined to share further details.

The start of 2022 for BharatPe was marked by the high-profile exit of its dynamic founder Ashneer Grover, which garnered considerable public attention. Subsequently, another co-founder, Bhavik Koladiya, responsible for the company's technological foundation, also left BharatPe.

Also Read: 'Its the end': Former BharatPe cofounder Ashneer Grover critiques PharmEasy's plan to raise $300 million

Throughout the remainder of the year, the company witnessed a series of more than twelve resignations, primarily concentrated within the technology and product divisions.

Several senior executives, among them the Chief Technology Officer Vijay Aggarwal, the Head of Consumer Product-PostPe Nehul Malhotra, the Chief Product Officer of Lending and Consumer Products Rajat Jain, and the Vice-President of Technology Geetanshu Singla, stepped down from BharatPe to initiate their own entrepreneurial ventures.

The most recent addition to this list was Chief Executive Suhail Sameer, who stepped down in January of the present year.

(With insights from The Economic Times)

ONE 97 COMMUNICATIONS More Information

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Mumbi: Amita Panchal, a 47-year old Mumbai-based bank employee and a single mother, navigated life with the aid of crutches. Childhood polio had restricted her mobility. She had health issues associated with obesity and, in May this year, consulted a doctor through Pristyn Care, a Sequoia- and Tiger Global-backed start-up that offers elective surgeries.

A Pristyn Care sales executive first contacted her on 11 May with details of the procedure she would eventually undergoinsertion of an intragastric balloon made by US-based Allurion Technologies. The next day, the same sales executive sent her a doctors prescription on WhatsApp, which contained a recommendation by Dr Nelson V Junghare, a young general surgeon, proctologist and laparoscopic surgeon, that she go for bariatric therapy. The Body Mass Index of the patient, as noted in the prescription, was the minimum mandated by Indias insurance regulator for such a procedure to be covered by insurance. The treatment, which costs a little less than 4 lakh, involves the patient swallowing a pill, which inflates into a balloon once inside the stomach. This limits the amount of food a person can eat and forces a calorie deficit, resulting in weight loss.

On 20 May, Panchal was admitted to a hospital in Mumbais Goregaon suburb to undergo this procedure. Just about half an hour later, however, she felt pain and unease, started vomiting, and began asking the doctors to remove the capsule from her stomach, according to a family member who asked not to be named.

Initially, her doctor counselled her that the uneasiness and nausea is a normal reaction to the procedure. But Panchals situation continued to deteriorate over the next few days.

What transpired next is now the subject of an investigation but raises unsettling questions about this emerging model of healthcare delivery. Pristyn Care, founded in 2018 by former Urban Company executive Harsimarbir Singh and doctor couple Vaibhav Kapoor and Garima Sawhney, partners with hospitals to lease infrastructure such as operation theatres and leverages digital marketing and a large sales team to convert online search queries into consultation and surgeries across a host of specialties such as gynaecology, ENT, urology, orthopaedics, dentistry and others. Elective surgeries differ from emergency surgeries in that they are planned in advance and patients tend to consult multiple doctors and also shop for the best offers.

Pristyn Care advertises competitive prices and discounts for surgeries across the board. Its a venture capital-funded startup, with attendant growth expectations. The company has so far raised $177 million across five rounds. The latest was in December 2021, at the height of the start-up funding frenzy, when it was valued at $1.4 billion. Its investors include Peak XV (previously Sequoia Capital), Tiger Global, Winter Capital, Epiq Capital, Hummingbird Ventures and Trifecta Capital.

While it leases hospital infrastructure, the start-up brings in its own doctors, medical equipment and medical consumables. This also means the patient can be somewhat isolated from the broader ecosystem of the host hospital.

Panchal underwent the procedure at Lifeline Hospital, a Pristyn Care partner hospital in Mumbais Goregaon suburb. As the pain and discomfort did not subside even after two days, relatives begged the doctor to remove the balloon, according to text messages seen by Mint. On 22 May, the doctor messaged a relative saying he had already asked the hospital for the balloon to be removed even though he is supposed to wait for five days but wasnt sure why that had not been done. I dont know why it has not got removed today, even after requesting for getting one today itself," the doctor wrote in one text message.

At Pristyn Cares offices in Delhi, this case raised hackles as the relatives were threatening legal action if the patient wasnt immediately relieved of her pain. At least one senior executive involved with monitoring of this case later told another in exasperation that the delays were unacceptable for a startup. We are concerned about insurance and money more than the patient," the senior executive confided, according to the latter, suggesting the removal was being held up partly due to confusion and concerns over whether insurance coverage might be denied due to premature removal of the balloon.

Ultimately, two more days would pass before the surgery to remove the balloon was done on the evening of 24 May, after securing the presence of a gastroenterologist to perform an endoscopy. On the morning of 25 May, Panchal, a single mother of a four-year-old boy, died.

The grief stricken family has filed a police complaint alleging medical negligence. A spokesperson for Goregaon police said it was awaiting a chemical analysis report from the Directorate of Forensic Science Laboratories Ltd in Kalina, Mumbai.

Pristyn Care contested insurance money was a concern. We wish to emphatically address and dismiss any allegations suggesting that the level of care provided to the patient was influenced by insurance considerations. We want to make it unequivocally clear that the pre-authorization process was firmly established well before the procedure and we dont see how and why this conjecture can be constituted."

Its unclear what caused the fatal two-day delay between 22 May, when the doctor told a relative he has already told the hospital to remove the balloon, and 24 May, when the procedure to remove it finally took place. Also unclear was who was responsible once unforeseen complications developed. The Pristyn Care doctor who did the surgery was initially unavailable to relatives and later said the hospital was to do the removal. Dr Junghare, who ultimately performed the procedure to remove the balloon as well, declined comment saying the matter was already under investigation and he had given his explanation in writing to authorities.

Pristyn Care, while offering condolences, said that it is cooperating with the relevant authorities and noted that this was a rare instance of mortality among its patients.

The overall mortality rate for elective surgery in India stood at 2.4%. Notably, at Pristyn Care, this rate is less than 0.0015% in the past 5 years, underlining our commitment to maintaining the highest standards of patient safety. Surgical procedures are undoubtedly intricate and come with inherent risks. While our approach is centred around patient safety, there are rare instances where unforeseen complications can occur, resulting in mortality," the company said in a statement to Mint.

Surgery after surgery

How the incentives of various stakeholders work within the ecosystem Pristyn Care has built can be troubling when compared with the conventional approach of healthcare professionals, bound by the Hippocratic credo of First, do no harm.

Its healthcare delivery layered with digital marketing, pushy sales executives, discount offers on surgeries and doctors judged by their ability to convert consulting outpatients into surgery customers. Its what healthcare might look like on venture capital steroids.

Two people familiar with the companys inner workings said that growth has been flat over the last two years, causing consternation among founders and senior management trying to meet targets.

The company said in a statement that it is projecting to reach a revenue exceeding 1,200 crore in FY2023-24". It last reported an operating revenue of 96 crore in FY21, according to MCA filings.

In its bid to boost growth, the company is pushing its sales executives to limits, the two executives cited above said.

Two patients who independently spoke with Mint on the condition of anonymity said sales executives and the doctors they were in touch with initially asked them to opt for surgery, and only later offered non-surgical options. Typically, surgical options are more expensive and offered only after the options for medical management of a condition are exhausted. An elective surgery, which Pristyn specializes in, can fetch the startup upwards of 30,000 and could run into several lakhs, as in the case of Amita Panchal.

One Indore-based couple, seeking a medical termination of pregnancy, went to a Pristyn Care doctor because she was offering a free initial consultation. The Pristyn sales executive and later the doctor spent a lot of time pitching surgery, despite the couples stated preference for a non-surgical option as the pregnancy was at an early stage, one of them told Mint in an interview. The couple thereafter opted to go to a larger hospital chain which prescribed drugs for the abortion, while also offering post-abortion care. The final bill also worked out to be much cheaper than what Pristyn Care was pushing for, they added.

In another instance, Mumbai-based Sohil Gurung went to a Pristyn Care doctor to treat haemorrhoids in early July. One week after his surgery concluded, he was in extreme discomfort and found new growth (of piles) at the site of the surgery. In the post-surgical consultation within a week, the Pristyn Care doctor recommended a second surgery, which would cost the patient extra money, Mohil, the patients brother, told Mint.

Seeking second opinions, the brothers went to two different doctors. Both doctors said the first operation had been botched up, Mohil said. After failing to register their complaint with Pristyn executives through the call centre, the brothers took to social media with their complaint. Pristyn executives thereafter offered a follow-up consultation with one of their own senior doctors.

The senior doctor then told us immediate surgery was not required. They have prescribed creams and ointments as part of the treatment for now," Mohil said.

Pristyn Care denied that its executives and doctors pushed patients to opt for surgeries. The company said over 12,000 new patients reach out to the platform daily, of which it performs around 1,300 consultations at Pristyn Care clinics. Of this, only around 200 surgeries per day take place at Pristyn Care partner hospitals, the company said. This figure is much lower compared to similar renowned hospitals in the country," the company spokesperson said.

We recognize that surgery isnt always the initial course, and some patients can find relief with appropriate medical management. Similarly, our approach emphasizes conservative strategies, exploring non-surgical options first," the company said in a statement. It said each surgery is evaluated by Pristyns Medical Directorate team.

However, two company executives, with a high level of knowledge of company operations, who spoke to Mint on the condition of anonymity, said Pristyn Care maintains a registry which monitors each doctors specific conversion rates from out-patient department to in-patient department (OPD to IPD ratio).

Documents seen by Mint showed that most Pristyn doctors report a conversion anywhere from 60%-70% to well over 90%. There are also doctors with 98- 99% OPD to IPD conversion rate. Sales executives also mostly send patients to doctors who have a higher conversion rate, as it helps them score conversions and meet targets. Doctors with a poor conversion ratio are slowly weeded out of the system that way," one of the people cited above said.

Pristyn Care said it rejected allegations of coerced surgeries". When patients reach out to us, they generally come after already consulting with doctors multiple times, only then they decide to undergo a surgical intervention," the spokesperson said.

Our current conversion rate of between 2% and 2.5% indicates that only 2 or 3 surgeries occur out of 100 patient interactions. We demonstrate our commitment to suggesting surgery judiciously," the spokesperson said. Patient interactions include all conversations, including with sales executives and others, and are not limited to doctors.

We adopt a model where our doctors receive a blend of fixed salary and a variable component, which is below the current industry benchmarks. Also, in contrast to conventional hospitals, we alleviate our doctors from the responsibilities associated with patient acquisition," the company said.

Not everyone is convinced. Aniruddha Malpani, a doctor who runs an IVF clinic and is an angel investor through Malpani Ventures, said that the Pristyn Care model is skewed in favour of over-medication and its set-up is ripe for errors to occur.

The Pristyn model encourages a behaviour where there are too many transitions of care with no one taking responsibility for what happens to the patient," said Malpani, a vocal critic of Pristyn Care.

After having raised venture capital funding, its focus has been on growing revenue.

Your bottom line is how do we increase revenue and people do not think of second order consequences. This is what leads to unnecessary surgeries. This is what leads to over- medicalization of treatments that can be managed conservatively," he said.

One could argue that conventional hospitals also have instances where doctors push patients towards unnecessary surgeries, but the problem with Pristyn Care is that they are institutionalizing this sort of bad practice," Malpani said.

Pervasive churn

Pristyn Cares fervent pursuit of growth is also causing its employees to work in toxic environments, sometimes leading to absurd situations.

Take the case of Jyoti Sharma, who joined Pristyn Care as a sales executive straight out of college in April and was assigned to the proctology department, a branch of medicine related to the colon, rectum and the anus.

Her job was to telephone patients who could potentially undergo a surgery at Pristyn Care. We would get leads from our manager and our targets were to secure 18-20 surgeries a month," she said.

The problem was that like many of her colleagues, Sharma was falling short of her targets. In the months of May and June, she had been able to convert or convince only around 8-10 patients to undergo a surgery through Pristyn Care.

Sharma said this was because the incoming funnel of leads was poor.

When Sharma joined the company in April, she was promised 300-400 such leads each month. But she ended up with only around 150 such leads in May, June and July. There were days and weeks when there would be no incoming leads as well.

One day in July, her manager cracked the whip, telling team members that they could not go home till they had achieved targets, even if it meant staying back at the office till midnight.

After 8 pm, when Sharma didnt reach home, some 10 minutes away, her worried parents called the office a couple of times and were told employees were not available. Then her father showed up with the police to the companys office to collect her.

Two days later, Sharma quit, and posted her ordeal on social media.

Many of Sharmas colleagues also quit that month.

It should be little surprise therefore that attrition at the company is off the charts.

The entire category departmentwhich is essentially sales executives who reach out to patients under different categories such as proctology or ophthalmologyreported a 140% attrition in FY23. The medical directorate department reported a 126% attrition, while the finance department reported an 80% attrition for FY23, internal documents seen by Mint showed.

Overall, company attrition stood at 97%which means the company virtually saw the entire company churn within a year. Over 100% attrition indicates that in those departments even the replacement hires did not last a year.

Pristyn defended the attrition, noting that it divided its employees into two buckets.

It said the first segment included on-ground professionals dealing with care-co-ordinators, insurance and hospital operations, city operations, logistics, etc. Its worth mentioning that these roles mostly involve basic positions that tend to experience higher employee turnover," the company said in a statement, but did not provide an attrition rate.

However, it said its second workforce comprised of corporate team members. Our leadership team maintains steadfast continuity, and we take pride in the minimal attrition witnessed in pivotal departments like HR, technology and medical directorate. In fact, for positions starting from senior manager and above, the attrition rate stands around 30% to 35%," the company said in a statement.

Delayed financials

Despite a high staff turnover in the finance, the company has been racing to file its financial statements for FY22 and FY23.

Two people with knowledge of the financial statements told Mint that BSR & Co, the auditing affiliate arm of KPMG International had told the company to get an external agency to provide comfort" by conducting an internal audit.

These two people, who asked to remain anonymous, said that Grant Thornton was securing, verifying and filling information on behalf of Pristyn Care, which would then be sent to BSR. Some of this information included details of the companys inventory, doctor agreements and expense trail. The audit is likely to be signed after the information is secured by Grant Thornton, the second person cited above said.

KPMG declined to comment.

The delay in filing the FY22 financials can be attributed to the exceptional circumstances faced by the healthcare industry in the 2021-2022 period. As a young and rapidly expanding company, Pristyn Care encountered numerous challenges and resource limitations due to the unprecedented events affecting the healthcare sector. Despite these obstacles, we have diligently worked to ensure accurate revenue assessments and financial compliance. Regarding the FY22-23 financial statements, we are on track to file them before the September 30th 2023 deadline. Both statements will be filed before Sept 30, 2023," the company said.

HTs Manish Pathak and Somita Pal contributed to the story.

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NEW DELHI : The Sajjan Jindal-led JSW Group is in advanced talks to acquire the shuttered Chennai factory of Ford Motor Co. for its planned entry into electric-vehicle (EV) space, two people aware of the matter said.

Talks started a couple of months earlier and are in an advanced stage now, and the company is speaking to both the state government and Ford," one of the persons said on condition of anonymity.

Spread over 350 acres, the Ford factory has an annual production capacity of around 200,000 vehicles and 340,000 engines. The plant has been shut since July 2022. The Tamil Nadu government is also keen that it finds a new owner who can restart production.

View Full Image Graphic: Mint

In September 2021, Ford decided to close its operations in India and wind down vehicle assembly, both in Sanand, Gujarat, and in Chennai, Tamil Nadu. While Tata Passenger Electric Mobility Ltd completed the acquisition of Sanand plant for 725.7 crore this January, the Chennai unit is yet to find a buyer.

The development comes at a time when the JSW Group has intensified attempts to enter the automobile sector, including acquiring a stake in MG Motor India Pvt. Ltd, a subsidiary of Chinas SAIC Motor Corp. Ltd.

Not just buying stake in MG Motor, the group is clearly researching to understand EV manufacturing, and the top management also visited China to understand the market," the second person said, also on condition of anonymity.

On Friday, Jindal said in a television interview that the group, apart from ongoing talks with MG Motor India, is also working on a parallel plan to make its own EVs. If talks with Ford bear fruit, the Chennai plant could become an integral part of that plan.

A spokesperson for the JSW Group said it was evaluating several opportunities.

EVs will be the primary mode of mobility over the next 6-7 years in India. This provides a sizable business opportunity for the JSW Group and we intend to seize it. As part of our plans to enter the EV space, we are currently evaluating a number of organic and inorganic opportunities. However, it is premature to offer any specific details until a certain direction is agreed," the spokesperson said in an email response.

This would not be the JSW Groups first attempt to enter the automobile industry. In 2018, it had earmarked 6,500 crore to acquire a General Motors manufacturing facility in Punes Talegaon. The company, however, abandoned the plans in 2019 and said it would instead focus on growth opportunities in the power sector.

In 2022, the group began revisiting its EV manufacturing plans; however, this time, it planned to do it through a special incubator that would be a private entity within the conglomerate.

Ford said it is exploring all avenues. We continue to explore alternatives for the Chennai plant and have no further information to provide at this point," said a company spokesperson.

While existing Indian automakers are venturing into EV manufacturing, new ones like the JSW Group are also drawn to the allure of growth. It is estimated that the EV market in India, being valued at $2 billion by 2023, is expected to grow to $7.09 billion by 2025. The EV population in the country is estimated at about 1.4 million EVs as of August 2022, and is likely to increase to 50 million by 2030. The industry also estimates the domestic EV market to reach 10 million annual sales by 2030.

pavan.burugula@livemint.com
New Delhi: Royal Philips will make more personal health products in India after the company expanded production at its co-manufacturing site in Baddi, Himachal Pradesh, which will now produce mother and childcare products in addition to the beauty and grooming products already being made at the site, it said on Tuesday.

India holds a strategic significance for our personal health businesses, and we remain committed to the further development of the market in our effort to support the health and well-being of the millions of people we serve. Our multi-site development and production approach, combining in-house expertise with strategic co-manufacturing partnerships, enables us to support the markets unique needs and to offer the best personal care and mother and childcare solutions," Deeptha Khanna, EVP and Chief Business Leader, Personal Health, Royal Philips said in a statement.

Philips India manufacturing footprint spans multiple sites, including in-house facilities apart from co-manufacturing partnerships. The companys capabilities serve both local and regional demand.

With a commitment to cater to the evolving needs of consumers by providing tailored solutions, Philips is manufacturing a range of hair care essentials including hairdryers, hair straighteners, and hairbrushes in the beauty category. Moreover, the company is also manufacturing Beard Trimmer 1000 Series designed to meet the specific needs of male consumers. Upholding its dedication to providing safety and hygiene, Philips is also producing sterilizers for the mother and childcare segment, all manufactured locally in India," the company said in a statement.

Philips personal health manufacturing presence in India includes sites in Baddi, Himachal Pradesh, and a co-manufacturing facility in the union territory of Silvassa.

Royal Philips, headquartered in The Netherlands, makes diagnostic imaging, ultrasound, image-guided therapy, monitoring and enterprise informatics, as well as personal health products. Philips generated sales of 17.8 billion euro in 2022, and employs approximately 71,500 employees with sales and services in more than 100 countries. It sells consumer appliances such as air fryers, trimmers, and other grooming products under its consumer business portfolio.

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2024 Lok Sabha Polls: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has launched a nationwide Voter Chetana Maha Abhiyaan campaign to ensure that the saffron party secures maximum votes in the general elections due next year.

The campaign was launched on August 25 to help register new voters including people who have shifted, remove doubtful voters, and correct voter card details, according to a report published by the news agency ANI.

"A team has been constituted up to the booth level. Bogus voters will be eliminated for this campaign, new voters will be registered, and this process will last until the 2024 Lok Sabha elections," a BJP source said.

Under this campaign, BJP workers will carry out door-to-door visits to contact the youth and ensure that eligible voters get enrolled. In each assembly, bogus voters will be removed and new voters will be enrolled, the source told ANI.

The target has been set to make 20,000 voters in big Vidhansabha, 10,000 in Medium Vidhansabha, and 5,000 voters in Union Territories which are small areas. New voters will be made aware and connected," the BJP source said.

The Voter Chetana Maha Abhiyaan campaign will be overseen by BJP's Mahila Morcha and Yuva Morcha. A team of eight people has been formed under the leadership of BJP's joint general secretary (organization) Shiv Prakash to look after this campaign. Each has been given the responsibility of six states.

The team will constitute BJP National General Secretary Kumar Sanjay Bandi and Dushyant Gautam, BJP Vice President Laxmikant Vajpayee and Rekha Verma, BJP National Secretary Satya Kumar, and Kamakhya Prasad Tasa and BJP Kishan Morcha Chief Rajkumar Chahar.

Earlier on Friday, Union minister G Kishan Reddy said the NDA government under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership will score a hat-trick and return to power in 2024 with more seats.

Leaders of INDIA, meanwhile, will participate in the third meeting of the opposition bloc on August 31 and September 1 in Mumbai. A convener and logo of the alliance could be announced at the meeting.

(With ANI inputs)

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Standard Chartered agreed to sell its global aviation finance leasing business for an initial $700 million in cash to Aircraft Leasing Company, or AviLease.

The Asia-focused lender on Tuesday said the consideration could be adjusted depending on the net asset value of the business at completion. The disposal is taking place through the sale of shares in relevant subsidiaries and minority equity interests held by the bank.

The transaction, which is expected to close toward the end of the year, will result in a gain of around $300 million and increase its common equity Tier 1 capital ratio by around 19 basis points, the London and Hong Kong-listed group said. The net proceeds from the sale will go toward the overall management of Standard Chartereds capital and liquidity position, it added.

AviLease is owned by Saudi Arabias sovereign wealth fund, the Public Investment Fund.

Write to Elena Vardon at elena.vardon@wsj.com

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Emotionally, logistically, in all ways, it is complicated for the kids, their families and for Stone-Miller, a prolific 32-year-old sperm donor. His road trip is part of a larger odysseyto figure out how he fits in the lives of the boys and girls he fathered in absentia. It began three years ago, when he first saw a photo of one of his biological children, a toddler named Harper who had his blue eyes and his sisters blond curls. He got tears, he recalled, and unexpected feelings of kinship.

I think of her as my first child," Stone-Miller said. He met Harper when she was 3 and decided he wanted to foster relationships with as many of the children as possible. He quit his job as a software engineer and has funded his quest with savings. So far, Stone-Miller has met 25 of his biological children. Because tracking progeny from a donor isnt always reliable, I will never know for sure how many children I have," he said.

Stone-Millers mission is itself an accident of birth, springing from the unforeseen union of in vitro fertilization, the internet and low-cost DNA testing. Together, these disparate advances have made it possible to find biological fathers who in the past were kept largely anonymous by sperm banks.

Months after Stone-Miller and his wife split up in 2020, a stranger messaged him. I really hope you dont feel violated in any way, but its Canadian Thanksgiving and I wanted to tell you how grateful my family is to you," wrote Alicia Bowes, one of Harpers two mothers. She had tracked Stone-Miller through social media and clues from his donor file, including his first name and his fathers occupation as a forensic psychologist.

Stone-Miller opened Bowess Instagram page and saw Harpers photo. Days later, he asked Bowes if he could join a Facebook group of parents called Xytex 5186 Offspring, named after his sperm bank ID. She agreed to form a new group for those interested. When he told the group he wanted to meet their children, the parents of 20 of them responded. Most of the parents in the group are female couples or single women, reflecting a trend in the sperm-bank industry.

Stone-Miller learned about the Facebook group at a tough time in his life. His former wife and her young son had moved out of the three-bedroom house in east Atlanta they bought together. I felt like such a failure," he said. A few months later, on the first day of a new job, he received Bowess message.

The relative ease of finding the identity and whereabouts of sperm donors is remaking traditional views of what comprises a family. Parents say introducing a biological father to their children carries potential rewards, as well as the risk of hurt feelings and failed expectations. More than a million Americans have been conceived through artificial insemination and in vitro fertilization; the number born of sperm donors isnt tracked.

Sperm donation, long shrouded in secrecy, had already changed by the time Stone-Miller began. He gave permission for the sperm bank to reveal his identity to any of his biological children after they turn 18. Joining the Facebook group opened the door years early. I wanted to watch the children grow up," he said.

Some parents decided they wanted nothing to do with him. Those who have welcomed him to their home are trying to figure out his rolea biological father, a donor dad, a visitor or special friend. Neither parents nor Stone-Miller are certain where to draw the line.

There are moments when it feels intrusive with Dylan," said Bowes, who has allowed Stone-Miller to visit twice in the past year. Its about us figuring out what boundaries are, as well as him figuring out his boundaries."

Stone-Millers mother, Rebecca Stone, said she doesnt have a simple answer to explain her sons motive. She is delighted, though, to see the photos Stone-Miller sends of her biological grandchildren. I can see facets of Dylan in almost all of the children," she said. So many of them are blond and blue-eyed the way he was. I can see the spark, the spark he always had."

As a college student, Stone-Miller said, he donated sperm for the money, $100 a visit. Looking back, he said, it was more than cash that kept him at it for six years.

Stone-Miller has twice visited Harper and her sister Harlowalso one of his biological children. In July, he stayed nine days at an Airbnb near their house in Edmonton, Canada, the longest visit of his road trip. The girls mothers acknowledged the complexities of the relationship, from his role in their lives to what to call him.

I dont want Harper to feel like she can call him anything," Bowes said. He is not her dad. Period. If she were to say that in front of us, we would straight up say, Dylan is not your dad. He will never be your dad. You dont have a dad. You have a donor. "

That didnt set well with Stone-Miller. It was hard to look my biological daughter in the eye and tell her I wasnt her dad," he said.

Early in his trip, Stone-Miller stopped at his grandmothers house in Marshfield, Mass., and voiced his disquiet about finding his place among all the children. Am I a parent? Maybe sometimes from the childs perspective? I dont know," he said. Its not for me to say, but it certainly feels like parenting every once in a while."

Stone-Miller said he had told his therapist that he expected to stay connected with his biological children indefinitely. And yet," he asked, how is that possible?"

Hard goodbyes

Before leaving on his trip, Stone-Miller went to see Cal, his 6-year-old biological child who lives in a suburb of Atlanta. He had visited the boy several times in the past two years, and Cal told his two mothers that he wanted to spend time alone with Stone-Miller. The moms agreed to let Stone-Miller drive Cal to a Target store to buy toys.

I have some trepidation about sending Cal off in the car with Dylan," said Lindsay Harris, one of Cals mothers. But I believe Dylan is who he says he is. He has proven that. It feels reassuring. I totally trust him."

After Target, they went to the park to spend the afternoon with Cals moms and his 3-year-old brother, another of Stone-Millers biological children. When it was time to leave, Cal was sad and so was Stone-Miller. Its hard to say goodbye each time," he said.

Cals mothers were grateful for the visit. Where we live, there is no family like ours," Harris said. So when a kid says, You dont have a dad, Cal can say, I do have a biological dad. I have a donor dad. I see him. He is part of my life. "

Two days later, on May 26, Stone-Miller ate a pile of banana pancakes, and at 9 a.m. he left Atlanta in a Toyota RAV4 packed with clothes for hot and cold weather, camping gear, Frisbees and childrens books, including Harold and the Purple Crayon." He reached his most distant point, Vancouver, at the end of July, and he expects to return home by September.

Stone-Miller made an early stop in eastern Connecticut, to see 5-year-old Mac Wraichette, who was waiting expectantly. The moment he woke up, he asked, Is Dylan coming? " said Jessie Wraichette, one of Macs two mothers. It was Stone-Millers third visit.

During their time together, Mac got in the pool to show off his swimming. Youre like a fish," Stone-Miller told him. He pushed Mac on the backyard swing set. When Mac ran to the slide and climbed the ladder, Stone-Miller called out a warning to Macs mothers about nearby plants.

Is that poison oak?" he asked. I dont want him to touch that if its poison oak."

Perfect storm

Stone-Millers parents divorced when he was 14. He and his sister, who is four years younger, spent six out of every 14 days with their father and the rest with their mother, who was a professor of ancient indigenous American art history at Emory University in Atlanta.

When he was 19, Stone-Miller said, a woman he dated told him she was pregnant. She had planned to have the baby but changed her mind. I had started to make the mental shift toward becoming a father," he said. I had a vision in my mind about what it might look like to have brought life into the world." Her decision left him with a lingering feeling of loss, he said.

Nine months later, Stone-Miller, who was studying psychology at Georgia State University, was arrested for underage drinking. His parents told him he had to pay for a lawyer. A roommate told him about the money he was making as a donor at the sperm bank Xytex. The opportunity came during a perfect storm of financial need and personal events," he said.

Xytex said it monitors the reported geographic distribution of children born from a common donor, in line with industry guidelines.

Stone-Miller collected seashells from a beach in Costa Rica, where his father, now remarried, lives. When Stone-Miller visits his biological children a second time, he asks them to choose one as a gift. He said he tries to be fair about splitting his time with the children. He keeps a spreadsheet for their names, ages and birthdays and when he last saw or spoke with them.

Stone-Miller planned to see 14 on his road trip, setting aside the longest amount of time for Harper and Harlow. He arrived to see the girls on July 10 and stayed nearby. He babysat them, affording their mothers a night out. Stone-Miller said he made ravioli that night, but Harper didnt like it. He fixed her toast and eggs. He read the girls bedtime stories and helped them brush their teeth.

During the visit, he took Harper to the mall, and at the food court a passerby told her, Thats one good dad," Stone-Miller recalled. It was an awkward moment. We look alike," he said. With the type of intimacy Harper and I share, it was easy for people to say this is a father-daughter relationship." Harper, he said, calls him Donor Dylan.

Harper and Harlow had an older brother, Huxley, who died three days after his birth. To commemorate Huxley, his mothers got matching tattoos of Benedict the bunny, a stuffed toy, sitting atop the moon, three stars for the number of days the baby lived and his name. They also got washable tattoos for Harper and Harlow to wear. During his visit in July, Stone-Miller also wore one. Stone-Miller, who was Huxleys biological father, said he, too, felt the loss.

He took a photograph of the tattoo and asked the mothers whether they minded if he got a real one like theirs. Bowes said that was fine. Later that night, the moms talked it over. They discussed personal boundarieswhat belonged to the family, what they felt comfortable sharing with Stone-Miller. They have a role as parents, and he has a smaller role as a donor. Huxleys memory was theirs, they decided.

It felt like he was pushing too much," Alicia Bowes said. No one could understand the grief of losing your child. This felt like our personal space, something very close to our hearts."

The next day, Bowess wife sent Stone-Miller an Instagram message saying she wasnt comfortable with him getting the tattoo.

I understand I did not go through the loss in the same way they did," Stone-Miller said. It was their experience. I had my own experience of it."

Bowes said she has come to better understand Stone-Miller, and that she can imagine the powerful tug he feels toward the boys and girls who look like him and want his time and attention. She understands that her family and the other parents are connected to a man they barely know and whose steadfastness is untested.

We came on the scene when he was going through hard times. Being with the children gave him a renewed sense of purpose," Bowes said. As we get to know him more, we all feel more comfortable. But my sense is he is going to feel more entitled, which can be problematic. We need to keep enough walls up to protect our girls and our family, but to make them permeable enough that he can come in."
The Supreme Court has rescheduled the hearing for the Adani-Hindenburg case involving the status report provided by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi), the capital markets regulatory body.

As per media reports, the constitution bench led by the Chief Justice of India will persist in addressing petitions that contest the revocation of Article 370.

Mint could not independently confirm the development.

The report noted that Sebi submitted a status report on August 25 concerning its inquiry into the accusations made by short-seller Hindenburg Research in its January report against the diversified conglomerate Adani, which is involved in port and energy operations.

Sebi has expressed that due to a significant number of these entities being located in offshore tax havens, determining the financial stakes of shareholders among the 12 Foreign Portfolio Investors (FPIs) presents a challenging aspect of the investigation, the report said.

As reported by PTI, Sebi informed to the apex court that it is currently awaiting data from five offshore tax havens to identify the true beneficiaries behind foreign investors engaged with the conglomerate.

Also Read: Adani-Hindenburg row: SEBI's probe faults Adani Group on disclosure rules, say sources

According to a report from the Indian Express, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) discovered that short selling of Adani stocks resulted in profits for 12 firms.

IE informed that the short-sellers include two Indian companies, one registered in New Delhi and another in Mumbai.

Furthermore, the promoters of the company based in Delhi have a SEBI order against them for allegations of deceiving investors and engaging in stock market manipulation, as stated in the report.

In response to governance apprehensions raised by Hindenburg Research, headquartered in the US, the Sebi initiated an investigation into the Gautam Adani-led group. These concerns led to a reduction of over $100 billion in the collective market worth of the conglomerate's enterprises.

Also Read: Gautam Adani's plan to transform Mumbai's Dharavi raises doubts and allegations

As per a recent report by Reuters, back in January, the conglomerate engaged in port and energy operations refuted any misconduct. Sources, preferring to remain anonymous due to a lack of authorization to engage with the media, described the infringements as primarily "technical" in nature.

These infractions are anticipated to lead to nothing more than a financial penalty once the inquiry concludes. However, SEBI does not intend to release the report to the public until the regulatory body has issued its decisions regarding the Adani investigation, Reuters reported on Monday citing sources.

Earlier on Friday, SEBI informed the Supreme Court that its investigation into the activities of the Adani Group was nearing its conclusion.

One key finding had been violations in disclosing certain related-party transactions, the sources told Reuters.

"Transactions with a related party need to be identified and reported," said one of them. "If not done, it could give an incorrect picture of the Indian listed company's financials."

Also Read: Adani-Hindenburg row: SEBI submits report, tells SC it has completed probe; check details

According to its submission to the court, the regulatory authority mentioned that it had scrutinized 13 occurrences of transactions involving related parties.

The penalty could go up to a maximum of 10 million rupees ($121,000) for each violation by each entity", the sources added.

The inquiry also found that holdings of offshore funds in some Adani companies were not in line with the rules, they said.

Indian law allows an offshore investor to invest a maximum of 10% in an Indian company via the foreign portfolio investor route with any larger investment classed as a foreign direct investment.

"There are some inadvertent breaches of this limit by some offshore investors," said the second of the two sources to Reuters, but declined to give details.

(From media inputs)

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The Supreme Court of India is hearing cases challenging the abrogation of Article 370 granting special status to Jammu and Kashmir. This is the twelfth day of hearing. On Monday Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud had mentioned that the now scrapped Article 35A has taken away all privileges of the residents of Jammu and Kashmir.

On Tuesday the Indian government informed the apex court that that the union territory status of Jammu and Kashmir is not a permanent thing". "The union territory status of Jammu and Kashmir is not a permanent thing. So far as Ladakh is concerned, its UT status is going to remain for some time," Mehta said.

Here are top points to Article 370 hearing in SC

-The Centre told the Supreme Court on Tuesday that it will make an elaborate statement on the vexatious political issue of in the court on August 31.

-The central government's response was conveyed to the court by Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, after a five-judge constitution bench headed by Chief Justice DY Chandrachud asked it to set a specific time frame for restoration of electoral democracy in the erstwhile state.

-The top government law officer said he will make an elaborate statement on the future of the union territory status of J-K and Ladakh before the bench, which also comprises Justices Sanjay Kishan Kaul, Sanjiv Khanna, BR Gavai and Surya Kant, on August 31.

-The bench, which was hearing Mehtas submissions defending the Centres decision to do away with the special status of the former state and its reorganisation, said, Democracy is important, although we agree that in view of the national security scenario, reorganisation of the state can be done."

-The court, however, said lack of electoral democracy cannot be allowed to go on indefinitely.

"This has to come an end... give us the specific time frame as to when will you restore actual democracy. We want to record this," the bench said, and asked Mehta and Attorney General R Venkataramani to seek instructions from the political executive and get back to the court.

-In 2019, union Home Minister Amit Shah proposed that Article 370 and Article 35A be scrapped. The then President Ram Nath Kovind issued an order, the Constitution (Application to Jammu and Kashmir) Order, 2019, stating that the provisions of the Indian Constitution will henceforth be applicable to Jammu and Kashmir, which according to experts brought the northern state at par with other states of India

-PDP president Mehbooba Mufti was placed under preventive house arrest, along with other PDP leaders in 2019. Lockdown like situation was imposed in Jammu and Kashmir as tension erupted in the state, with residents protesting the decision.

-During the hearing on petitions challenging the abrogation of Article 370, the matter was raised to remove Article 35A. CJI Chandrachud on Monday noted that 35A took away three fundamental right.

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Congress leader Rahul Gandhi is likely to visit Europe next month to meet European Commission lawmakers in Belgium besides addressing students at a university in Paris, according to a report published by the news agency PTI.

Sources said that the Congress leader is also likely to address the Indian diaspora at an event in Oslo in early September.

Rahul Gandhi is likely to leave for Paris in the first week of September for a five-day tour to Europe. He will attend a meeting with European Union members in Brussels on September 7.

On September 8, the former Congress chief will address students at a university in Paris and deliver a lecture there, while on September 9, he will participate in a meeting of the Labour Union of France in Paris, sources told PTI.

Thereafter, Gandhi is slated to visit Norway where he will address the Indian diaspora event on September 10, said sources, adding that he will meet members of the diaspora and may hold a press conference there.

Notably, his visits abroad will come at a time when the crucial G20 Summit will be held from September 9 to 10 in the national capital. The summit will be held for two days and will be joined by representatives of member nations as well as guest nations.

India assumed the G20 presidency for a year from December 1, 2022, to November 30, 2023, and has been hosting several meetings across the country.

During the summit, representatives will engage in discussions about diverse economic reforms. The summit will be concluded with the adoption of a G20 Leaders' Declaration.

The declaration will consist of priorities and other points discussed and agreed upon during the meetings. As the national capital gears up to host the international summit next month, know all about the G20 Summit.

(With PTI inputs)

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Republican presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy has played Enimem music at campaign stops and, excruciatingly, rapped to it himself on-stage. Eminem says he would like this not to happen again.

BMI, a performing rights organization, has informed Ramaswamy's campaign at Eminem's request that it will no longer license the rapper's music for use by the campaign. In a letter to the campaign dated August 23, BMI says it "received a communication from Marshall B. Mathers, III, professionally known as Eminem, objecting to the Vivek Ramaswamy campaign's use of Eminem's musical compositions," according to a copy of the letter obtained by CNN.

His campaign has already indicated it will comply: "Vivek just got on the stage and cut loose," a spokesperson said, quoting an Eminem line. "To the American people's chagrin, we will have to leave the rapping to the real slim shady."

Ramaswamy had a breakout performance against a dull field of GOP also-rans last week, in a TV debate that front-runner Donald Trump did not attend. But his Hindu faith and other attributes are a "challenge" for conservative voters, while his right-wing ramblings give him little chance of attracting anyone else, no matter how much the New York Times hypes him.
Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader and Delhi Chief minister Arvind Kejriwal ordered the immediate suspension of the teachers and the vice principal of a Delhi Government school where incidences of sexual harassment has been reported.

In this Delhi government school, two boys were sexually assaulted allegedly by their classmates in April this year.

Delhi education minister Atishi on Tuesday noted Kejriwal directed disciplinary action against the accused for failing to report the matter to the Police.

In a letter to the Education Secretary, Atishi said, It is Our responsibility to ensure all children are safe and secure in our schools."

And if any such instances of child sexual abuse are brought to light, then appropriate legal action has to be taken. We have to take all possible steps to ensure that such an instance is not repeated in our schools," she wrote.

She added that the incident should make us reflect and take corrective measures. We must do everything to ensure children are safe and secure at all times."

Atishi added that Kejriwal has directed the Directorate of Education to ensure rigorous training of all the principals and teachers on the provisions of POCSO.

Mandatory reporting of such incidents, tools for early identification of abuse, types of abuse, the impact of abuse on children, and remedial measures enabling capacity building of teachers to support such students are among the measures directed by the chief minister.

According to Atishi, the chief minister also directed the Directorate of Education to prepare high-quality material for reference of all teachers and principals and issue guidelines for schools to handle cases of abuse in a supportive environment for children.

The Delhi Government has set up an enquiry committee to probe into the alleged sexual assault case of two minor boys in a government school, according to an official statement.

"It is tragic that such a despicable incident allegedly happened in the summer camp organised by the school. An enquiry committee has been set up and a thorough probe is underway on the subject. Let the due course of law take place," said an official statement.

If any teachers or staff were aware of this issue and did not bring it to the notice of higher authorities, then stringent action will be taken against them, it added.

"We can assure you all that the Delhi Government will take swift and stringent action on the matter. We want to set the standard of education in the country which includes character development among students," read the statement.

It further said that such culpable deeds would not be tolerated and would be dealt with due severity.

Delhi Commission for Women (DCW) Chief Swati Maliwal had on Monday issued notices to the Delhi Police and Directorate of Education in the alleged sexual assault case.

"Delhi Commission for Women has received information of sexual assault with two minor boys in a government school of Delhi. A 13-year-old boy who studies in 8th standard in a government school in Rohini was allegedly sexually assaulted by other students of the school," the notice read.

"He has informed that in April 2023, he attended school during summer camp wherein some students forcibly took him to a nearby park and sexually assaulted him for 7 days. He has alleged that the accused students also threatened him not to disclose the incident to anyone. He stated that a couple of days ago, he narrated his ordeal to two of his teachers, but they asked him not to report the matter," it added.

DCW Maliwal further mentioned that in another case a 12-year-old minor was also sexually assaulted by the same group of students.

"Another boy, aged 12 years old has also alleged that the same students sexually assaulted him as well. He has informed that in April 2023, during the summer camp, he was sexually assaulted in the school toilet. He has stated that the accused students had threatened him not to disclose the incident to anyone," the notice read."

He has further alleged that around 16 days back, a student again tried to sexually assault him in the toilet. He has further stated that he had narrated the incident to two of his teachers in July and August, but they had asked him to not talk about the incident to anyone," it added.

DCW has requested the Delhi Police and Directorate of Education to provide a detailed action taken report on the two matters by September 1, 2023.

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NEW DELHI: The meeting of health ministers from the G20, which took place in Gandhinagar, Gujarat on August 19, saw an agreement to establish stronger, fairer, and more comprehensive healthcare systems. The focus is on ensuring equal availability of secure, high-quality, and affordable vaccines, treatments, diagnostics, and other medical interventions. This effort is particularly aimed at benefiting nations with limited resources and smaller island nations in need.

The outcome document" released after the meeting was built on setting up a research and development and manufacturing network for vaccines, therapeutics, and diagnostics, along with setting up a platform for making open-source, interoperable digital solutions readily available.

All G20 delegations, except for paragraph 22 which discusses the chair's summary concerning the geopolitical situation in Ukraine, reached consensus on the outcome document consisting of 25 paragraphs.

They recognized the potential role of evidence-based traditional and complementary medicine in health and took note of WHOs efforts in this direction including global and collaborating centres, and clinical trial registries. They also acknowledged the potential of evidence-based T&CM practices in public health delivery systems, provided they are rigorously and scientifically validated to be safe and effective as per WHO TM Strategy 2014-23, extended till 2025," said an official.

They agreed that there is a need to collaboratively nurture an ecosystem of regional research and development and manufacturing for VTDs, particularly in LMICs, which can support equitable access and distribution, and is tailored to region-specific contexts, to address market failures and regional demand," added the official.

The G20 members committed to tackling AMR comprehensively following the One Health approach through strengthening multi-sectoral governance, coordination; research and development (R&D); infection prevention and control (IPC); water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH); improving awareness of AMR; promoting responsible use of antimicrobials including preserving the existing therapeutics across humans, animals and plant sectors through antimicrobial stewardship.

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Gautam Adani, has proposed a plan to relocate one million residents from Dharavi, one of Asia's largest slums. However, this plan has raised concerns among the slum's residents due to Adani's recent financial setbacks and allegations of favourable treatment from Prime Minister Narendra Modi's associates. As reported by Reuters, taking the lead in the Dharavi redevelopment project, Gautam Adani secured a $614 million contract from the Maharashtra state government in July, after multiple unsuccessful efforts over the years.

Dharavi, depicted in the Oscar-winning movie "Slumdog Millionaire," is marked by poor living conditions including open sewers and communal toilets. Situated near Mumbai's airport and upscale corporate buildings, the slum's conditions sharply contrast with India's overall development progress.

Adani's plan involves transforming the slum, known for its leather goods production, by demolishing what legal documents describe as "unhygienic, deplorable" conditions.

The intention is to construct new towers on government-owned land, providing new housing and business spaces for the current residents. According to estimates by consultancy firm Liases Foras, Adani's investment in revamping Dharavi could range up to $12 billion. In exchange for this initiative, the Adani Group would gain development rights that have the potential to generate revenue of approximately $24 billion.

The individuals who were residents of Dharavi prior to the year 2000, mainly those residing on the ground floors, will receive complimentary housing as part of the redevelopment plan. However, approximately 700,000 people living on higher floors, including mezzanine levels, are categorized as ineligible by the government. They will be presented with the option of relocating to units located up to 10 kilometres away. This could potentially entail upfront expenses or increased rental fees for these residents.

Scheduled to commence around September, the renovation coincides with a challenging period for Adani. He held the position of the world's third-wealthiest individual until January, when his conglomerate's market value suffered a loss of $150 billion due to allegations of questionable activities, as asserted by US short-seller Hindenburg, despite Adani's refutations.

In conversations with Reuters, certain inhabitants of Dharavi mentioned that the billionaire's financial difficulties have added to their apprehensions.

Adani's redevelopment plans face a new challenge in the form of a legal dispute presented by competitor SecLink Technologies Corporation. This Dubai-based consortium, claiming support from Bahrain's royal family, asserts that Maharashtra acted improperly by annulling an original tender from 2018, in which SecLink submitted the highest bid.

Subsequently, the state restarted the tender process with revised terms in 2022, allegedly favouring Adani's victory. These claims are outlined in court documents reviewed by Reuters.

The present state administration, under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi's Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and its partners, is actively opposing this legal dispute. Just recently, a Mumbai court granted approval for SecLink to include Adani in its legal proceedings, thereby requiring the conglomerate to justify its position before the judges.

In a comprehensive 809-page submission made last month, as reported by Reuters for the first time, the consortium consisting of eight members contended that Maharashtra's altered bidding procedure was driven by political motives and was specifically designed to align with the interests of Adani Group.

As per SecLink's claims, the modifications encompassed raising the stipulated net worth for bidders to $2.4 billion and limiting consortium members to a maximum of two, a reduction from the previous allowance of eight.

In a submission made privately to the judges ahead of an August 31 court session, Adani refuted SecLink's accusations and contended that the case should be dismissed in consideration of promoting developmental objectives.

According to confidential documents examined by Reuters, Maharashtra countered SecLink's allegations by stating that they were without merit and that officials had adhered to the correct procedure in cancelling the previous tender. The state's response emphasized that the decision to restart the process was influenced by the inclusion of an additional land parcel in the project, a development that occurred after the closure of the 2018 tender.

Adani Group, SecLink, Chief Minister of Maharashtra Eknath Shinde, and Prime Minister Modi's office did not provide responses to inquiries from Reuters in relation to this report.

Both Modi and Adani have their origins in the western state of Gujarat. Frequently, those opposed to them and critics assert that Adani's rapid ascent in the realms of ports and energy was to some extent facilitated by his proximity to and favorable treatment from the administrations led by Modi's BJP and its associates. However, both Modi and Adani have consistently refuted any allegations of misconduct.

The opposing Congress party has utilized the Dharavi conflict as a means to exert pressure on Modi and the BJP in the lead-up to the 2024 national elections. They accuse the government of Maharashtra of providing Adani with an advantage in this situation.

"The fact that it is associated with Adani will automatically result in snowballing into a political controversy," said Sandeep Shastri, director of academics at India's NITTE Education Trust.

The report published by Hindenburg and the subsequent regulatory investigation into Adani have resulted in cultivating a sense of distrust among certain individuals in Dharavi. This sentiment was conveyed by spokespersons for numerous local families as well as 25 other residents and business proprietors who were interviewed by Reuters.

"People have doubts regarding Adani's image after the Hindenburg incident. There are issues of trustworthiness," said Rajendra Korde, president of Dharavi Redevelopment Committee, which is calling for public consultation.

In early August, about 300 opposition supporters and residents gathered in Dharavi to object to Adani's involvement. Some bore banners showing Adani's face with a red cross, shouting, "Remove Adani, Save Dharavi".

Numerous individuals expressed to Reuters that they were concerned about the financial challenges faced by Adani Group, particularly the significant decline in its market valuations.

"If something like that happens again, and if he is not able to complete the project, where will people like us go," said Radha Pawar, a 50-year-old airport cleaner.

Adani, 61, in a July video address said the group had raised funds since Hindenburg's report and that investors supported its governance and capital allocation practices. Still, in a blog post last month, Adani acknowledged that rebuilding Dharavi presented "colossal" challenges - though he hoped the area in future would produce millionaires without the slumdog prefix", Reuters reported.

As part of the strategy, the billionaire will be required to construct more spacious apartments spanning between 300 to 350 square feet. The state has suggested incorporating fixtures from foreign glass brands such as France's Saint-Gobain.

SVR Srinivas, the leader of the Dharavi Redevelopment Authority, assured that endeavors would be undertaken to mitigate disturbances. Nevertheless, residents continue to feel anxious about the situation.

Mohammad Hasmat Ullah has been a resident of Dharavi since 1995. However, he operates an embroidery business from a rented upper floor, which renders his dwelling ineligible for a complimentary replacement. He earns a monthly income of $145, which supports his family consisting of seven children.

"We are worried that Adani will throw us out of here," said Ullah, 44, sitting inside his workshop accessed by a narrow, steep staircase.

"If Adani gives us a place to work and stay, it's good. Otherwise, we will be forced to go back to our village."

(With Reuters inputs)

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NEW DELHI : Leading global and domestic manufacturers have shown interest in the new production linked incentive or PLI scheme for IT hardware, said ministry of electronics and information technology secretary Alkesh Kumar Sharma.

About 58 registrations have taken place. The response has been good. Most global and Indian players have registered," he said on the sidelines of an event Monday.

The incentive scheme is for making laptops, tablets, personal computers, servers and edge computing devices.

The government will not extend the month-end deadline for applications, Sharma said, noting that interested players have another couple of days to submit their applications, the next step after registration.

A senior government official had told Mint earlier that Hewlett-Packard had applied under the PLI scheme. According to a source aware of the development, Dell too is learnt to have applied under the scheme, and other global players are also likely to follow suit. Queries to Dell India did not elicit a response.

This is the governments second outing with this PLI. The first, issued in 2021 with an outlay of about  8,000 crore, received a lukewarm response with most global players staying away.

The second version, announced in May this year, has a higher outlay of 17,000 crore and contracts the company for six years , in place of four years earlier. This version appears to have been better received.

As per the IT hardware PLI 2.0 scheme, an incentive of 5% will be provided by the government on net incremental sales over the base year, for goods manufactured in India, compared to 2% earlier. The base year is FY23.

The scheme also provides for greater flexibility as the investments can be spread over six years, instead of four. Companies opting for the scheme will get additional optional incentive  of another 3% - if they use India-made and designed components, sub-system or inputs.

Also, companies can take Indian contract manufacturers on board, and avail incentives if the contractor is producing for a single company. Investments from Chinese manufacturers would be allowed in accordance with existing regulations.

The government is expecting the revised scheme to persuade multinational companies to shift their global manufacturing bases to India, leading to production worth 3.35 trillion, investments of 2,430 crore, and direct employment to 75,000 people.

Local players such as Dixon Technologies and Optiemus Electronics are widely expected to participate.

The scheme is also an attempt to foster domestic manufacturing of IT hardware products such as laptops and tablets, a significant portion of which is currently being imported for consumption.

They can either apply for the scheme themselves or can produce for an IT hardware brand under partnership and avail benefits.

Electronics manufacturing in India has witnessed consistent growth of 17% CAGR in the last eight years, he said, noting that in FY23, it crossed production of $105 billion.
Mission 2024 Lok Sabha Polls: All eyes are on the INDIA alliance meeting in Mumbai where a logo of the opposition bloc is likely to be unveiled and strategies issues including seat sharing are expected to be deliberated upon for the general elections due next year.

It is also expected that some more regional outfits will join the 26-party opposition alliance in Mumbai as top leaders huddle for a two-day meeting starting August 31 where the BJP-Shiv Sena government is in power, PTI reported.

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, who played an instrumental role in bringing together different parties opposed to the ruling BJP, on Sunday said,  We will discuss the INDIA bloc's strategies for next year's general elections during the upcoming meeting in Mumbai."

"Issues such as seat-sharing will be discussed and several other agendas will be finalized. A few more political parties will join our coalition. I wish to unite the maximum number of parties before the 2024 Lok Sabha polls. I am working in that direction... I have no desire for myself," he said.

Senior Congress leader Sonia Gandhi will also attend the INDIA bloc meeting in Mumbai this time, the party's Maharashtra unit president Nana Patole said on Monday.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin has also confirmed his presence at the 3rd meeting of the INDIA alliance, as per ANI reports.

The anti-BJP bloc leaders will gather in a luxury hotel in suburban Mumbai on August 31 and September 1 in what will be their huddle since coming together on a common platform for the first time in June in Patna.

The second meeting took place in Bengaluru in mid-July where the name of the bloc  Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) decided. The grouping has been formed with the aim of taking on the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) in the 2024 parliamentary polls.

The Congress party, meanwhile, has claimed that 4 to 5 political parties of the BJP-led NDA bloc are in touch with the INDIA alliance and some of them will join the opposition bloc in the coming days.

(With inputs from agencies)

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China has released their official standard map for 2023, which includes Arunachal Pradesh and the Aksai Chin region as parts of the east Asian nation. The map released on August 28 shows Arunachal Pradesh which China claims as South Tibet and Aksai Chin occupied by it in the 1962 war as part of its territory. The map also incorporates China's claims over the nine-dash line thus laying claim to a large part of the South China Sea.

The map was released by Chinas Ministry of Natural Resources during the celebration of Surveying and Mapping Publicity Day and the National Mapping Awareness Publicity Week on Monday in Deqing county, Zhejiang province, as per China Daily newspaper. Recently Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Xi Jinping met on the side lines of the BRICS Summit in Johannesburg, South Africa. Opposiiton leaders expressed concern over the new map published by China. Congress The Congress on Tuesday said these (Arunachal Pradesh) are inalienable parts of India which no such illegal representation or arbitrarily invented map by the "habitual offender" can change. The party also urged the government to use the upcoming G20 Summit to expose China's transgressions into Indian territory at the global stage.

In a post on microblogging site X, Kharge said, "China is a habitual offender when it comes to renaming and redrawing maps of territories, belonging to other countries. The Indian National Congress takes strong objection to any such illegal representation or renaming of India's territories."

Sanjay Raut

Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut said that the Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's claims in Ladakh were true and that if the Central government has courage then it should do a surgical strike on the South-East Asian country.

Earlier this month, during his visit to Ladakh, Congress MP Rahul Gandhi hit out at the Centre, saying that its claim that not an inch of Indian land was taken by China's People Liberation Army (PLA) troops "is not true".

The Congress MP claimed the locals, too, contend that Indian territory was intruded upon and taken by the Chinese troops, adding that it was a matter of concern.

"The locals here are concerned about China taking our land. They have said that the Chinese troops took away their grazing land. However, the PM says not an inch of land was taken away. This is not true, you can ask anyone here," Rahul had said.

Tibetan Govt in exile

Tenzin Lekshay, Spokesperson and Additional Secretary, DIIR, Central Tibetan Administration said that China has been showing such distorted maps since many years, showing Arunachal Pradesh as a part of China.

"This is not the first time China is doing that. China for the last so many years has been repeatedly showing distorted maps which shows Arunachal Pradesh as a part of China," he said.

Lekshay further said, "In fact they used to say that the whole Arunachal is the part of Southern Tibet but this claim is baseless and not based on truth...This is part of sovereign India since independence, there are Indian people and administration and government."

(With agency inputs)

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Many people are still approaching banks to exchange or deposit their 2000 banknotes after the Reserve Bank of India ( RBI ) removed them from circulation on 19 May 2023. The Reserve Bank had given nearly four months to deposit or exchange notes worth 2000. Banknotes in the denomination of 2000 must be exchanged or deposited by September 30, 2023.

According to the RBI press release issued on May 19, 2023, "The facility for deposit and/or exchange of 2000 banknotes shall be available for members of the public up to September 30, 2023.The facility for exchange of 2000 banknotes shall be provided to all members of the public by all banks through their branches."

RBI guidelines for  2,000 note exchange

People having bank account can visit their bank branch and provide their account details to streamline and exchange 2000 notes. The RBI guidelines state that there is no requirement for a requisition slip or ID proof for exchanging 2000 notes.

The RBI has also stated that even a non-account holder can exchange 2000 banknotes at any bank branch without any ID proof. However, there is a limit on the exchange of 2000 banknotes. A person can exchange Rs.2000 banknotes up to a limit of Rs.20,000 at a time. The exchange facility of Rs.2000 notes is free of cost.

How to exchange  2000 note in the bank?

The facility for exchanging Rs.2000 notes is available at 19 Regional Offices (ROs) of RBI having issue departments till 30 September 2023. People can also exchange Rs.2000 banknotes at any nearest bank branch from 23 May 2023.

Deposit limit of  2000 notes

People can deposit 2000 banknotes at the bank where they have an account. The RBI has clearly stated that there is no deposit limit for 2000 notes. But, the general KYC and other cash deposit statutory norms will apply. When a person deposits 2000 notes in a Basic Savings Bank Deposit (BSBD) or Jan Dhan account, the usual limits will apply.

As per Bule 114B of the Income Tax Rules, it is mandatory for an individual to quote the PAN number when the cash deposit in a single day with a post office or bank exceeds Rs.50,000. Thus, if a person wants to deposit 2000 banknotes amounting to more than 50,000 in a single day, he/she must quote the PAN number. Quoting the PAN is not mandatory when the amount deposited is below 50,000 in a day.

Last day to deposit  2000 banknote

The RBI has clearly mentioned that people can approach any banks or post offices to deposit or exchange their Rs.2000 notes from 23 May 2023. The last date for the deposit or exchange of 2000 notes is 30 September 2023.

Though the RBI instruction is clear that the exchange of 2000 notes across the counter should be provided without insisting on a request slip or ID proof since these notes continue to be legal tender, certain public sector banks have adopted a different strategy.

The RBI stated that 50% of Rs.2000 notes in circulation had been returned to banks within 20 days of the withdrawal announcement. The Indian banks received 2.72 trillion worth of 2,000 banknotes up to 30 June, after the Reserve Bank announced their withdrawal on 19 May, said Union Minister of State for Finance Pankaj Chaudhary in a written reply to a question in Rajya Sabha25 July. According to the RBI, as much as 76% of the 2,000 currency notes in circulation have either been deposited or exchanged at banks.

Bank holidays in September 2023

If you still intend to deposit in the upcoming months, be careful to check bank holidays before visiting your bank. Banks will be closed for 16 days in September for national, regional holidays

Here is the list of bank holidays in September:

September 3, 2023: Sunday

September 6, 2023: Shri Krishna Janmashtami.

September 7, 2023: Janmashtami (Shravan Vd-8) and Shri Krishna Ashtami.

September 9, 2023: Second Saturday.

September 10, 2023: Second Sunday.

September 17, 2023: Sunday.

September 18, 2023: Varsiddhi Vinayak Vrata and Vinayaka Chaturthi.

September 19, 2023: Ganesh Chaturthi.

September 20, 2023: Ganesh Chaturthi (2nd day) and Nuakhai (Odisha).

September 22, 2023: Shree Narayana Guru Samadhi Day.

September 23, 2023: Fourth Saturday and Maharaja Hari Singhs birthday.

September 24, 2023: Sunday.

September 25, 2023: Birth anniversary of Shrimant Sankardeva.

September 27, 2023: Milad-e-Sherif (Birthday of Prophet Mohammad).

September 28, 2023: Eid-e-Milad or Eid-e-Miladunnabi (Bara Vafat)

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The Central Railway (CR) is reportedly set to enhance the CSMT-Shirdi Vande Bharat train's speed on the Igatpuri-Manmad line to 130 kmph, a report by Free Press Journal has stated. As per the report, the stretch between Igatpuri and Shirdi is 125 km and currently it allows speed up to 110 kmph.

According to instructions from the Railway Board, the Central Railways has started working on improving the tracks in order to help increase the speed of the train, officials said as reported by FPJ. Once implemented, the travel time will further reduce by 30 minutes. Moreover, this will also help other trains using the Igatpuri-Bhusawal line and will cut down on the travel time by 30 minutes.

The CSMT-Shirdi Sainagar Vande Bharat train which runs six days a week except Tuesday was inaugurated in February by PM Modi. Apart from this, the Prime minister had also inaugurated Mumbai-Solapur Vande Bharat Express.

Train no. 22223 departs CSMT at 6.20 am and arrives at Shirdi at 11:40 am on the same day while Train no. 22224 leaves from Shirdi at 5.25 pm and reaches CSMT at 10.50 pm.

Earlier this month, the Indian Railways' Central Railway zone had added additional stoppages at Kalyan stations in the CSMT-Shirdi Sainagar Vande Bharat Express. As per the latest detail, the CSMT-Shirdi Sainagar Vande Bharat train will arrive at Thane station at 6:49 am and depart at 6.51 am. Its scheduled arrival at Kalyan station is 7:11 am and departure at 7:13 am. The Shirdi Sainagar-CSMT train will reach Thane at 22:06 and depart at 22:08. The arrival and departure timings of this train at Kalyan station are 21:45 and 21:47, respectively.

The Mumbai-Sainagar Shirdi Vande Bharat improves connectivity to important pilgrimage centers in Maharashtra like Nashik, Trimbakeshwar, Sainagar Shirdi, and Shani Singanapur.

The Vande Bharat trains have ultra-modern features like faster acceleration, better ride comfort, on board infotainment and Global Positioning System (GPS) based passenger information system, automatic doors, retractable footsteps and Zero discharge vacuum bio toilets etc.

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That request to round up your bill at the checkout counter for charity is one of the simplest ways to help nonprofits. But consumers are showing signs of fatigue as these tiny appeals for goodwill multiply.

Shoppers arent worried about spending a dollar on worthy causes like PetSmarts efforts to help shelter animals find homes or Costcos campaigns to help sick kids. Theyre tired of chain restaurants and retailers asking for money, especially as a broader array of businesses are also asking customers to tip their employees.

Consumers also complain that they sometimes end up donating more than expected, and that their donations earn tax benefits for companies.

Vastly more donation campaigns now include a round-up component than they did in 2020, according to a report on charity appeals in the checkout line from social impact organization Engage for Good.

Shelly Allhands, a Seattle freelance communications professional, says shes annoyed by businesses with lots of money asking for spare change. The round-up requests remind her of millionaires who tell us to use paper straws while flying private jets."

Chris Perry of Falls Church, Va., has worked in nonprofit fundraising for over a decade. Hes worried about the fatigue hes hearing from would-be donors, and how people are lumping charity round-ups together with tipping. The philanthropic organizations hes worked with rely on the campaigns to fund as much as half of their efforts, he says.

Were asking consumers to pay salaries, fix charities, all these things at the same time when theyre maybe struggling, too," says Perry, citing his work overseeing donations at the Childrens Miracle Network, a collective of nonprofit childrens hospitals. He now does the same for low-income home-repair organization Rebuilding Together.

Still, he says, The money that comes in is substantial, and theres a lot of flexibility in how nonprofits can use it."

Round-ups spread

One reason for the campaigns growing popularity: They work.

Round-up initiatives, now found everywhere from stores to movie theaters and casinos, can raise millions in weeks. Stop & Shops campaigns for breast-cancer research and food-security efforts garner between $1 million and $2 million in a month, says Jennifer Barr, who oversees the grocery chains charitable giving.

U.S. companies raised more than $749 million from consumers at checkout in 2022, a 24% increase from 2020, according to Engage for Good.

Yet people are growing weary of being asked, data shows.

The number of consumers who said they donated to a charity at the register is down steeply over the past two years, according to a 1,000-person survey by corporate-philanthropy software company Accelerist. It dropped from 80% in 2021 to 59% in 2023.

About 73% of shoppers said they feel neutral or positive about being asked for a donation at checkout as of this year, according to Accelerist, down from 85% in 2021.

Perry says he understands consumers skepticism. I wish I could stand there at the checkout on every single one and say, I promise you, this is going to where you think its going to, " he says.

Hes never had a corporate partner donate less than 100% of the money it raises, he says. Most also donate substantial sumsoften millionsthemselves.

Bad experiences

Sometimes people who decide to give a few cents to charity end up donating more than they planned.

Ashley Mason almost always tapped yes" on the pin pads charity prompts. Then she noticed after multiple visits to Rite Aid within a week that all her receipts were for full dollar amounts, even when she hadnt opted to round up.

The clerk told Mason she had enrolled in automatic donations to KidCents, a program run by the Rite Aid Foundation, rather than the one-time donation she had intended.

No big deal," Mason thoughtuntil store employees told her they couldnt change her selection. After calling the drugstore chains corporate office and searching Reddit for solutions, she says she gave up and moved her prescriptions to CVS.

You know how to get me to enroll and take my money, but you dont know how to get it to stop," says Mason, a government contractor in Stevensville, Md.

A Rite Aid spokeswoman says KidCents donations support children in need. Customers wanting to unenroll can contact Rite Aids customer-care team at 1-800-RITE AID, she says.

A federal lawsuit filed last year in New York against CVS alleges the company used customer donations at checkout to fund a $10 million corporate philanthropy pledge to the American Diabetes Association. The complaint was brought by a New York state resident who donated to CVSs in-store campaign.

A CVS spokesman said the company had filed a motion to dismiss the suit. Obviously, upon signing, CVS didnt assume an unconditional $10 million debt to the ADA," CVS said in its motion. If customer donations dont meet the $10 million threshold, CVS says it will make up the difference.

Who gets tax benefits?

Internal Revenue Service rules generally allow businesses to use consumer donations to earn tax write-offs, though not every company with a checkout campaign uses the tactic. Stop & Shop says it doesnt earn any tax benefits from customer donations.

Tax benefits apply to whichever entity makes the direct donation to the qualified public charity, IRS representative Raphael Tulino says. That means customers are eligible only when their pin pad donations go straight to a nonprofit, as is the case with PetSmarts PetSmart Charities.

Jesy Herron, who works in development for a Cincinnati video agency, says she appreciated the extra opportunities to give during the pandemic, and didnt sweat the impact of a few pennies on her taxes.

After a recent week in which she encountered more than a dozen of the requests, however, she hit a breaking point. She says she feels worse deciding not to donate while her kids are with her.

I need them to understand this isnt mom being a jerk. Its wanting to decide as a family where we donate rather than have a company decide for us," she says.

Instead of rounding up spare change, the family has been assembling grocery bags for local Ukrainian refugee families. She estimates theyve spent about $750 over the past few monthsand loves that she gets to see the delivery trucks drive away.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has decided to extend travel restrictions on Pakistan for an additional three months due to the ongoing risk of a polio outbreak, as reported by ARY News.

This decision was reached during a meeting of the World Health Organization's Emergency Committee for the 2005 International Health Regulations, a body responsible for monitoring the global spread of the poliovirus.

The committee expressed concerns regarding Pakistan's efforts to combat polio and its ability to reach a significant number of children. It also highlighted the challenges faced by both Pakistan and Afghanistan in their attempts to eradicate polio, according to ARY News.

Also read: WHO flags 7 India-made syrups in its probe on contaminated medicine causing 300 deaths globally

Recent favourable environmental tests in Peshawar and Karachi have underscored the persistent risk of a polio epidemic in Pakistan, as noted by the committee. Furthermore, the committee reported the identification of a new case of Wild Poliovirus Type 1 (WP1) in Pakistan in 2023, bringing the year's total to 2 cases. Both cases were reported in the Bannu district of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) province.

Despite the vaccination of an additional 160,000 children in southern KP through an action plan, the committee emphasised the continued challenges in the region, including political instability, security concerns necessitating police patrols for frontline workers, and vaccination refusals, as reported by ARY News.

Also read: COVID-19: US CDC tracks new variant, Which countries are under the radar? WHO says Variant Under Monitoring

In Afghanistan, the emergency committee disclosed the occurrence of five new WPV1 cases in Nangarhar province since the previous meeting. It also warned that any setback in Afghanistan's polio eradication efforts poses a risk to Pakistan due to high population movement between the two countries.

The committee issued a warning about the persistent risk of WPV1 re-emergence in the southern region due to ongoing transmission in eastern Afghanistan, cross-border transmission into Pakistan, and a substantial population of unvaccinated children in southern Afghanistan.

As per WHO's International Travel and Health guidelines, all travellers should receive the complete polio vaccine. Residents and visitors staying longer than 4 weeks from affected areas should receive an additional dose of either oral polio vaccine (OPV) or inactivated polio vaccine (IPV) within 4 weeks to 12 months after travel, as reported by ARY News.

(With inputs from ANI)

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After attending the G20 Summit in New Delhi, US President Joe Biden will commence his one-day visit to Vietnam on September 10. He will travel to Hanoi, the Vietnamese capital, to meet with General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong and other leaders.

In an official statement, White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said, The leaders will explore opportunities to promote the growth of a technology-focused and innovation-driven Vietnamese economy, etc."

In addition, Biden's visit to Vietnam will also focus on expanding the people-to-people ties between the two countries through education exchanges, workforce development programs, combatting climate change, and increasing peace, prosperity, and stability in the region, as per AP reports.

The White House also announced that Joe Biden will stop in Alaska on his way home from Vietnam to mark the 22nd anniversary of the September 11, 2001, attacks in the United States.

During his short visit to Alaska, the US President will also participate in a memorial ceremony at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson in Anchorage with members of the military, first responders, and their families, Jean-Pierre said in the statement.

For years, the Unites States has been seeking to strengthen relations with Vietnam which has cautiously approached entreaties by Washington. It is pertinent to note that China and Russia have also long served as key trading partners for Vietnam, AP reported.

Earlier this year, Secretary of State Antony Blinken also visited Vietnam weeks after the 50th anniversary of the US troop withdrawal that marked the end of Americas direct military involvement in Vietnam. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen in July also traveled to Hanoi.

Diplomatic relations between the US and Vietnam were only restored in 1995. Since then, bilateral trade has grown, reaching a high of $138 billion in goods trade last year.

The Vietnam visit was announced after Biden earlier this month hosted the leaders of Japan and South Korea for a historic summit at the US presidential retreat of Camp David to cement a new economic and security agreement, according to AP reports.

Biden has worked to bring South Korea and Japan  historic rivals  closer together amid their shared concerns about Chinese assertiveness in the Pacific and North Korea's nuclear program.

(With AP inputs)

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A trial date of March 4, 2024, has been established by a judge for the federal case in Washington involving Donald Trump. The case pertains to the accusations against the former president for his alleged efforts to overturn the 2020 election results.

As reported by AP, the judge dismissed the defence's request to delay the trial by multiple years.

Judge Tanya Chutkan refuted the assertions made by Trump's legal team, who had argued that an April 2026 trial date was necessary due to the extensive evidence review and the unique nature of the prosecution. However, she did agree to a minor postponement beyond the initially suggested January 2024 date put forward by special counsel Jack Smith's prosecution team.

The public has a right to a prompt and efficient resolution of this matter," Chutkan said.

Maintaining the present date would present a challenge to Trump's endeavor to delay the case until well past the 2024 presidential election, in which he currently holds a prominent position as the Republican front-runner for the nomination.

The March 2024 date would guarantee a high-profile trial in the heart of the nation's capital during the peak of the GOP presidential nomination schedule. This would necessitate Trump to manage both campaign and court proceedings simultaneously, with the trial scheduled the day before Super Tuesdaya critical voting day characterized by primaries in over a dozen states, offering the largest number of delegates.

Also Read: US court sets date for Donald Trump's trial in plotting to overturn election results case

"I want to note here that setting a trial date does not depend and should not depend on the defendants personal or professional obligations," Chutkan said.

Chutkan has shown limited receptiveness to Trump's attempts at prolonging the case, while also expressing unease over his extrajudicial statements made on social media. In recent times, she cautioned Trump's legal representatives about the boundaries surrounding his public discourse concerning the evidence involved in the investigation. She reiterated her intention Monday for Trump to be treated with no more or less deference than any defendant would be treated."

Among the four legal proceedings targeting Trump, the Washington case is only one. The trial set for March 4 would occur a few weeks before a planned trial in New York, where Trump is facing charges related to a hush money payment involving a porn actress. Concurrently, in Atlanta, former White House chief of staff Mark Meadows made an effort on Monday to have the charges against him moved from state court to federal court. This action pertains to the case in which Trump and 18 others are accused of attempting to overturn the 2020 election in Georgia.

Also Read: Former US President Donald Trump returns to X (formerly Twitter), says never surrender

The trial date was established despite forceful protests from Trump's attorney, John Lauro. Lauro argued that the defence had been provided with an extensive collection of documents from the prosecution team led by Smith, with one prosecutor estimating the total to exceed 12 million pages and files. Lauro further emphasized that the case involved pioneering legal complexities that would necessitate substantial time for resolution, AP reported.

This is one of the most unique cases from a legal perspective ever brought in the history of the United States. Ever," Lauro said, calling it an enormous, overwhelming task" to review such a gargantuan" amount of evidence.

Also Read: The world contemplates Trumps second coming

AP noted that prosecutor Molly Gaston countered that the public had an exceedingly" strong interest in moving the case forward to trial and said that the basic allegations in the indictment have long been known to the defence. Trump, she noted, is accused of attempting to overturn an election and disenfranchise millions."

There is an incredibly strong public interest in a jurys full consideration of those claims in open court," Gaston said.

Trump, a Republican, was charged this month in a four-count indictment with scheming to undo his loss to Democrat Joe Biden in the 2020 election.

Smiths team has brought a separate federal case accusing him of illegally retaining classified documents at his Palm Beach, Florida, property, Mar-a-Lago, and refusing to give them back. That case is currently set for trial next May 20.

Also Read: 2024 US Presidential Elections: Former US President Donald Trump's campaign emblazons merchandise with his mugshot

In addition to the federal case, Trump is also confronted with legal proceedings at the state level in New York and Georgia. A representative from New York's state court system, Lucian Chalfen, disclosed that Judge Chutkan recently engaged in discussions with Judge Juan Manuel Merchan, overseeing Trump's Manhattan criminal case, to coordinate their respective trial schedules. Chalfen clarified that no conclusive decision has been reached concerning the potential rescheduling or delay of the Manhattan trial, set to commence on March 25, 2024.

In the context of the Georgia case, Trump turned himself in on Thursday, resulting in the first-ever mug shot of a former U.S. president, coupled with a stern expression. Throughout these cases, Trump has consistently asserted that the investigations against him are driven by political motives, aimed at undermining his chances of regaining the presidency.

(With inputs from AP)

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Robert O'Neill, a former US Navy SEAL renowned for asserting his role in the 2011 operation that led to the death of Osama bin Laden, was arrested earlier this week in Texas.

As reported by ANI, citing The New York Post, Robert O'Neill is facing charges related to causing bodily injury.

The incident took place in Frisco, where O'Neill was taken into custody and subsequently released on a $3,500 bond on the same day, as reported by The Dallas Morning News, a prominent newspaper serving the DallasFort Worth region in Texas. The situation has garnered significant attention due to O'Neil's high-profile claim and military background.

Reportedly, the former Navy SEAL, Robert O'Neill, found himself facing legal issues as he was officially booked for two misdemeanour charges in Texas. The charges included a Class A misdemeanour related to assault causing bodily injury, as well as a Class C misdemeanour for public intoxication. However, it's noteworthy that the jail records exclusively indicated the presence of the assault charge, as revealed by The New York Post.

Also Read: 'Hosting Osama Bin Laden,' Jaishankar's response to Pakistan at UNSC | Watch

O'Neill gained significant attention when he publicly claimed responsibility for firing the fatal shots that resulted in the demise of Osama bin Laden, the mastermind behind the September 11 attacks, during a secretive US military operation conducted in Pakistan back in 2011. This admission thrust him into the limelight and brought his military career and actions into the global spotlight.

Detailing the events further, Robert O'Neill chronicled his version of the events in his 2017 memoir titled "The Operator." Despite his narrative, it's worth noting that the US government has neither officially confirmed nor refuted the story, as stated by The New York Post.

Also Read: The end of Al-Qaeda?

This recent arrest isn't the initial instance of O'Neill finding himself entangled in controversy. In 2016, he faced legal issues when he was apprehended for driving under the influence in Montana.

However, it's important to highlight that the charges were subsequently dropped by prosecutors, according to a report from CBS News. These past incidents have contributed to the complex tapestry of O'Neill's public image, adding layers to his story beyond his renowned military achievements.

Did O'Neill kill Osama Bin Laden?

In a 2013 interview with Esquire magazine, Robert openly asserted that he was the one who eliminated Osama bin Laden during the May 2011 operation known as Neptune Spear. He further detailed this account in his memoir, "The Operator. However, the US government neither confirmed nor denied his claims. At the time, many other special forces personnel protested Roberts violation of "a code of silence that forbids them from publicly taking credit for their actions."

Robert, in an interview with CBS News, said that it's a difficult secret to keep." Everyone was proud. I think it was apparent that we had done it," he said.

(With inputs from agencies)

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NEW DELHI : The government in October will review its sugar export policy, which is currently under the restricted category, in October, after state cane commissioners come up with their crop estimate for the 2023-24 season.

Current restrictions, under which each sugar mill gets an export quota, are in place until October end.

All options are open to the government as far as sugar export is concerned, but it is too early to take a call on exports. There has been no proposal on sugar export policy submitted by the department concerned yet," a top government official said.

Let the current season end and cane commissioners come up with crop estimates for the next season. Accordingly, a decision on exports will be taken in the second half of October after assessing 2023-24 cane crop."

Every year, the central government takes the view of state governments on domestic consumption and ethanol mixing with petrol before taking a call on the export policy for sugar.

A meeting with state cane commissioners is scheduled for 31 August.

Mint on 2 June had reported that the department of food and public distribution was unlikely to give sugar mills a free hand in exporting sugar in 2023-24 (October-September) to ensure domestic supply and keep prices in check.

India, which pipped Brazil in 2021-22 to become the worlds largest producer and the second-largest exporter of sugar, restricted export of sugar in October last year for a year and opted for a mill-wise quota system.

However, sugar mills have already overshot their quotas. By 31 May, they had exported 6.1 million tonnes of their full years quota of 6 mt. In the 2021-22 sugar season, India exported 11.2 mt sugar.

Queries sent to the ministries of food and public distribution, commerce and consumer affairs remained unanswered till press time.

The Indian Sugar Mills Association (ISMA), a trade body, in the beginning of August released its preliminary estimate of sugar production for the 2023-24 season at 31.7 million tonnes (mt) compared with 32.8 mt for the ongoing season.

As per agriculture ministry data, the area under sugarcane crops till 25 August had gone up to 5.61 million hectares from 5.56 million hectares during the corresponding period last year.

Although the crop area has gone up, weak monsoon in August due to El Nino raises concerns over production.
Brazilian Labor Minister Luiz Marinho said that Presidents Joe Biden and Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva are set to advocate for enhanced working conditions in both the United States and Brazil.

As reported by Bloomberg, they will address this matter during a collaborative event in New York, coinciding with the upcoming United Nations General Assembly.

Marinho said in an interview with Bloomberg News that the leaders will launch a kind of manifesto calling attention to the need to improve labor relations," that would touch on work environments and pay.

Scheduled for September 19, the meeting will follow the addresses of both presidents to the General Assembly. This information comes from individuals within the Brazilian government who are privy to the arrangements and have chosen to remain anonymous while discussing these plans.

Also Read: US President Biden comments on Donald Trump's mug shot, calls 'handsome guy'

Despite disagreements on matters such as Russia's involvement in Ukraine and approaches to China, President Biden and his Brazilian counterpart, often referred to as Lula, are portrayed by Brazilian officials as being aligned in their shared endorsement of labor unions within their respective nations.

Positioning himself as the most pro-union president in American history, Biden has implemented measures to bolster labor unions, which constitute a vital component of his electoral alliance in the 2024 elections.

Their most recent conversation occurred on August 16 via a phone call, during which they deliberated on shared objectives related to climate change and other matters. In a previous instance, Biden welcomed Lula to the White House in February.

Also Read: Joe Biden says 'not surprised' by Wagner chiefs possible death

The meeting takes place amidst Brazil's efforts, alongside its allies, to enhance the influence of the BRICS group. In the recent past, leaders representing Brazil, Russia, China, and South Africa reached an agreement to enlarge the group's scope by extending invitations to Saudi Arabia, Iran, Egypt, Argentina, Ethiopia, and the United Arab Emirates. This strategic move aims to amplify the global impact of this consortium of emerging market nations, creating a platform that unites significant energy-producing countries with the most significant consumers in the developing world.

Within the summit, the Brazilian government also introduced a proposal to Argentina, outlining a plan that involves utilizing the yuan as a means to ensure payments for exports. This initiative is designed to circumvent financial shortages and facilitate the continuous flow of trade.

(With inputs from Bloomberg)

ALLIANCE More Information

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At the G20 Summit, US President Joe Biden will speak about various issues including the social effects of the Russia-Ukraine war, climate change, the capacity of the multilateral development banks to better fight poverty, etc., said White House press secretary Karine Jean Pierre in a media briefing on Monday.

President Biden will reaffirm the US commitment to the G20 as the premier forum of economic cooperation globally. He will discuss a range of joint efforts to tackle global issues, from the clean energy transition, the significant transnational challenges that are afflicting countries across the world, and others," she said as quoted by ANI.

Joe Biden will commence his four-day to India on September 7 to attend the G20 Summit that is scheduled to take place next month, the White House said in an official statement on August 22. India is set to host G20 Summit on September 9 and 10.

During his visit to New Delhi, Biden will also commend Prime Minister Narendra Modi's G20 leadership and reaffirm the US commitment to the G20 as the premier forum of economic cooperation including by hosting it in 2026, the statement read.

India assumed the G20 presidency for a year from December 1, 2022, to November 30, 2023, and has been hosting several meetings across the country.

The G20 Summit in Delhi is all set to commence on September 9. The summit will be held for two days and will be joined by representatives of member nations as well as guest nations.

During the summit, representatives will engage in discussions about diverse economic reforms. The summit will be concluded with the adoption of a G20 Leaders' Declaration.

The declaration will consist of priorities and other points discussed and agreed upon during the meetings. As the national capital gears up to host the international summit next month, know all about the G20 Summit.

The theme of the international summit is "Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam" or One Earth  One Family  One Future." It is derived from a famous ancient Sanskrit text, Maha Upanishad. The theme, which gives the message of global unity, is a perfect slogan for the international grouping.

It also highlights the concept of LiFE and signifies environmentally sustainable and responsible choices. These choices are pertinent not only at the individual level but also at the national level.

(With ANI inputs)

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President Vladimir Putin of Russia will be unable to attend the G20 Summit in New Delhi, the Kremlin announced last week. This came after Russias longtime leader also skipped the BRICS Summit in South Africa. Putin will also skip the East Asia Summit in Jakarta, which will see Prime Minister Narendra Modi participate. Mint breaks down the case of the Missing Mr. Putin.

What has Putin skipped so far?

In November 2022, Russias President announced that he would be unable to attend the G20 Leaders Summit in Bali. Since then, Putin has skipped a series of important international events. He did not attend the BRICS Leaders Summit in South Africa, which concluded last week. He also expressed his inability to attend the East Asia Summit, a high-powered meeting of Asian leaders, in Jakarta next month. His decision to skip the G20 Summit in Delhi is just the latest major summit he has missed. The last major international event he attended in person was the leaders meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation in September 2022. He also took part in the Eurasian Economic Forum in May this year.

What is driving this streak of absences?

Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said that Putin was unable to attend the Delhi G20 Summit due to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. However, experts speculate that Putin is aware of the international isolation suffered by Russia due to the war. The joint statement from the Bali G20 Summit was heavily critical of Russias violation of international law in its invasion of Ukraine. This may also have partly factored into his decision to skip this years summit in New Delhi. Putin was also unable to attend the BRICS Summit due to an arrest warrant issued by the International Criminal Court for his actions in Ukraine. South African authorities may have been obligated to arrest Putin.

Who will replace him?

During a phone call with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Putin said that Russias Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov would represent Russia at the summit. Lavrov also took on this role during last years Leaders summit. He was also present in-person during the BRICS Summit last week while Putin took part virtually. However, Lavrov is also considered to be an acerbic and at times prickly operator. During the July 2022 G20 Foreign Ministers Meeting, he walked out of the gathering after Russias war in Ukraine was heavily criticised.
The Islamabad High Court made a significant decision by suspending the conviction and three-year prison sentence of former Prime Minister of Pakistan, Imran Khan, in the Toshakhana corruption case.

As reported by PTI, the announcement of this long-awaited verdict was made by a division bench led by Islamabad High Court Chief Justice Aamir Farooq and Justice Tariq Mehmood Jahangiri.

IHC had kept its decision pending on Monday regarding Imran Khan's appeal contesting his conviction in the Toshakhana corruption case.

"Our application has been accepted, and the sentence has been suspended," Panjutha said on messaging platform X (formerly Twitter).

As reported by Reuters, the ambiguity surrounding whether Khan's release would occur automatically due to the High Court's ruling stems from additional court orders that have sanctioned his arrest in different cases. The implications of the prohibition on his participation in elections are presently unclear.

Earlier, a lower court in Islamabad had found Imran Khan, the 70-year-old leader of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), guilty and handed him a three-year jail sentence on August 5th. The court found him guilty of illegally selling state gifts, popularly known as the Toshakhana corruption case. The court also disqualified him from politics for five years.

Also Read: Pakistan ex-PM Imran Khan arrested after being sentenced to 3 years jail in Toshakhana case

The cricketer-turned-politician Imran Khan, received a conviction due to accusations of illicitly selling state presents that he and his family had obtained while he was in office from 2018 to 2022.

Furthermore, he was handed a five-year prohibition from engaging in politics, which effectively disqualifies him from participating in any forthcoming elections.

"Judge Humayun Dilawar announced that involvement in corrupt practices has been proven," reported AFP quoting Pakistan TV.

Since his removal from office in April of the previous year, Imran Khan has found himself entangled in more than 150 legal cases. Conversely, he contends that these cases are driven by political motives. Following his arrest, Imran Khan's legal representatives conveyed their intention to promptly submit an appeal.

What is the Toshakhana Case?

The case that was filed by the ECP in May alleges Pakistan Prime Minister of deliberately concealing details of the gifts he retained from the Toshakhana. It is a repository where presents offered to government officials during their foreign visits are kept. The PM was alleged of concealing the details of gifts that were kept during his tenure.

The Toshakhana rules say that the details of the gifts and presents offered to respective officials shall be reported to the Cabinet Division. Imran Khan is facing a number of legal issues over his retention of gifts. This also led to his disqualification by the ECP.

(With inputs from agencies)

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NEW DELHI : India and Bangladesh are expected to hold a trial locomotive run on the Akhaura-Agartala railway line and push the operationalization of the crucial link between the two countries. Reports have indicated that both sides hope to operationalize the line by the end of this year.

Tripuras transport Mminister Sushanta Chowdhury stated in April that both sides would like to have the link operational by September this year. He was quoted saying 85% of the work on the Indian side and 73% on Bangladeshs side had been completed. The railway line, which would link Akhaura in Bangladesh to Agartala in India, is expected to slash travel time.

This comes as part of a larger focus on connectivity in the bilateral relationship as both sides hope to improve cross border trade. The two countries have focused on reviving rail links that existed between them prior to the 1965 India-Pakistan war.

As of now, five BG (broad gauge) connectivity are operational, namely Gede-Darshana, Benapole-Petrapole, Singhabad-Rohanpur, Radhikapur-Birol and Haldibari-Chilahati," said railway minister Ashwini Vaishnaw in May. The Haldibari-Chilahati route, which became operational in 2021, was the latest of the pre-1965 routes to be operationalized. Work on two more cross border rail connectivities, Akhaura-Agartala and Mahihasan-Shahbazpur is progressing well and is likely to be completed and commissioned shortly," Vaishnaw said. These lines, especially the Agartala-Akhaura line, are expected to spur trade and improve livelihoods for border communities.

Both sides are also discussing proposals to extend rail connectivity for Bangladesh to Bhutan, using Indias railway lines.India has also been providing free transit to Bangladesh for exporting its products to Nepal and Bhutan. The Bangladesh side also requested rail connectivity with Bhutan through the newly inaugurated Chilahati-Haldibari route. The Indian side agreed to consider the request, based on its viability and feasibility. To make this and other cross border rail links viable, the Indian side requested the Bangladesh side to remove port restrictions, inter alia at the Chilahati  Haldibari crossing," reads a joint statement from a bilateral meeting between Prime Ministers Narendra Modi and Sheikh Hasina in September 2022.

Connectivity has been a major focus of the bilateral relationship as New Delhi and Dhaka seek to boost economic ties. Indian officials recently announced plans to establish 16 new border haats in addition to the existing eight in a move to improve trade between border communities. The two sides are also pushing for talks on a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA). The two Leaders welcomed the recent finalization of a Joint Feasibility Study which recommended that Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) will be beneficial for both countries," reads the joint statement from the meeting between the two leaders in September.

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AS Munavar Basha, the General Secretary of the Tamil Maanila Congress on Tuesday slammed MK Stalin and alleged that the Cauvery dispute continues unresolved due to the absence of a bold Chief Minister in the state.

Basha's response followed the recent decision of the Cauvery Water Regulation Committee (CWRC) to instruct Karnataka to provide Tamil Nadu with 5,000 cusecs of water daily for the next 15 days until September 2nd.

Speaking to ANI, Basha said, "This is a victory for delta farmers. But at the same time, the Karnataka government will not obey the instructions because in Tamil Nadu we don't have a bold Chief Minister. That is why this (the Cauvery issue) happened. Had he (MK Stalin) been a bold CM, he would have got the water released for the state without any commission or court's direction..."

Also Read: Cauvery river: The long-winding legal dispute

They (DMK) are allies in opposition bloc INDIA, but Karnataka government is not releasing water to Tamil Nadu. How will the people in Tamil Nadu vote for the INDIA alliance?" he added.

In Karnataka, the principal opposition Bharatiya Janata Party leader Basavaraj Ingin said the panel order is nothing but "pushing farmers into a debt trap".

Basavaraj Ingin, the principal opposition leader of the Bharatiya Janata Party in Karnataka, stated that the directive from the panel is essentially forcing farmers into a cycle of debt.

Also Read: Cauvery row shows rising threat of water struggle in India

"Recent order of CWRC to the government of Karnataka is nothing but pushing farmers into a debt trap...When there is no water in Karnataka, besides Cauvery, the question of releasing water should not have arisen...Now the government of Karnataka will have to struggle hard," Ingin said.

For many years, the dispute between Karnataka and Tamil Nadu over sharing water from the Cauvery River has remained a contentious matter. This river serves as a crucial source of both irrigation and drinking water for a substantial population in the region.

To address this issue, the Indian government established the Cauvery Water Disputes Tribunal (CWDT) on June 2, 1990. The CWDT's purpose was to arbitrate conflicts among Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, and Puducherry concerning the allocation of water resources.

The Cauvery River basin is a transboundary region that begins in Karnataka and traverses Tamil Nadu and Pondicherry before eventually flowing into the Bay of Bengal. The entire geographical area that contributes to the Cauvery Basin spans 81,155 square kilometres.

Among this, the portion of land that feeds water into the river covers approximately 34,273 square kilometres in Karnataka, 2,866 square kilometres in Kerala, and the remaining 44,016 square kilometres in Tamil Nadu and Pondicherry.

(With inputs from ANI)

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China's recent unveiling of its updated "standard map" has stirred controversy, as it incorporates contentious territories, including Arunachal Pradesh, Aksai Chin, Taiwan and the disputed South China Sea regions. The release, which occurred on August 28, has raised diplomatic concerns and rekindled existing disputes.

China's official map, referred to as the 2023 edition, was introduced via the Ministry of Natural Resources' standard map service website. The map employs a method involving national boundaries to depict China's perspective on global geography, potentially inflaming tensions with neighbouring nations. Also Read: Arunachal Pradesh is major stakeholder in Indias Act East Policy: President This map is compiled based on the drawing method of national boundaries of China and various countries in the world," state-run Global Times said in a post on X (formerly Twitter).

Of particular significance is the inclusion of Arunachal Pradesh and Aksai Chin, both areas that have long been subject to conflicting claims between China and India. Arunachal Pradesh, despite China's assertions of it as South Tibet, has steadfastly remained an integral part of India. India has consistently reiterated this stance. India has repeatedly said that the state of Arunachal Pradesh has "always been" and will "always be" an integral part of the country, PTI reported.

The map's ambit goes beyond India's borders. China's assertion of Taiwan as an inalienable part of its territory and its continued pursuit of integrating the island into its fold aligns with President Xi Jinping's strategic objectives. This portrayal further heightens tensions between China and Taiwan, a matter of global concern.

Also Read: China once again renames places in Arunachal Pradesh

Additionally, China's delineation includes the controversial nine-dash line, which asserts a substantial portion of the South China Sea as Chinese territory. This move is met with opposition from countries like Vietnam, the Philippines, Malaysia, Brunei and Taiwan, who have competing claims over the same maritime regions.

(With PTI inputs)

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West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has slammed the Bharatiya Janata Party and claimed that the party has booked all the helicopters"ahead of the parliament elections so that no other political party is able to get any helicopter.

As reported by ANI, the West Bengal CM was speaking at the rally on Tuesday.

Mamata Banerjee said, "The BJP has booked all helicopters ahead of the parliament elections so that no other party can get any. This is their state. They think that money can buy anything."

West Bengal CM noted that the ruling party might potentially conduct Lok Sabha elections as early as December, with the possibility extending to January.

The Lok Sabha polls are scheduled to be held in 2024.

Also Read: Dont take panga: Mamata Banerjees warning to Bengal Governor

Mamata Banerjee further warned that a return to power for the BJP could lead to an "autocratic" style of governance in India.

The leader of the TMC emphasized that she believes the current political climate restricts the freedom of Indians. She said, "In India, Indians are not free because only the BJP is free here.

Addressing a rally, Mamata Banerjee voiced her disapproval of the BJP's conduct and choices concerning the selection of the chief election commissioner. During her speech, she expressed criticism toward the party for its handling of this matter.

Also Read: Opposition has decided BJP will come back in 2024 election breaking all records: PM Modi in Lok Sabha

"Chief Justice had asked to constitute a committee to appoint the chief election commissioner. They (the BJP) removed the Chief Justice from the panel and appointed a BJP cabinet minister in his place to appoint the chief election commissioner. What a lattu! He will keep spinning and disappear," Mamata Banerjee said.

Taking on the BJP for raising 'Goli Maro' slogans in Jadhavpur, Mamata Banerjee dared, "Do you want to shoot? If you have the audacity, shoot at us. We will see to it." The Bengal Chief Minister added that she has instructed the police to arrest those who have raised 'Goli Maro' slogans.

Mamata Banerjee claimed that someone texted her that Abhishek Banerjee would be arrested before the Lok Sabha election.

"Someone texted me yesterday that Abhishek will be arrested before the election. Do you know what they have done? They have taken whatever data he had on his computer...They uploaded some files created by them into his computer," Mamata said.

(With inputs from ANI)

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With the successful soft landing of Chandrayaan-3, Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is set to launch solar mission Aditya-L1, the first space-based Indian observatory to study the Sun. As per ISRO, the launch is scheduled for September 2, 2023, at 11:50 Hrs. IST from Sriharikota.

Speaking about Aditya-L1 mission, Head of Department Astronomy, Osmania University Shanti Priya has said the mission will be a turning point in the study of the Sun. While speaking to news agency ANI, Shanti Priya said, Sun is the most mysterious object we know. We are all dependent directly or indirectly on the Sun. Mission to Sun is the most challenging thing. India is now in the race of space missions, and this mission will be a turning point in the study of the Sun."

"With this mission we are expecting we would get more insights into the structure and energy of the Sun," she said.

Aditya L1 shall be the first space based Indian mission to study the Sun. The spacecraft shall be placed in a halo orbit around the Lagrange point 1 (L1) of the Sun-Earth system, which is about 1.5 million km from the Earth. A satellite placed in the halo orbit around the L1 point has the major advantage of continuously viewing the Sun without any occultation/eclipses.

As per ISRO, this strategic location will enable Aditya-L1 to continuously observe the Sun without being hindered by eclipses or occultation, allowing scientists to study solar activities and their impact on space weather in real time. The spacecraft is equipped with seven advanced payloads designed to scrutinize various layers of the Sun, from the photosphere and chromosphere to the outermost layer, the corona.

What are the major science objectives of Aditya-L1 mission?

-Study of solar upper atmospheric (chromosphere and corona) dynamics;

-study of chromospheric and coronal heating, physics of the partially ionised plasma, initiation of the coronal mass ejections, and flares;

-Observe the in-situ particle and plasma environment providing data for the study of particle dynamics from the Sun; and

-Physics of solar corona and its heating mechanism.

-Moreover, the mission also aims to study diagnostics of the coronal and coronal loops plasma: temperature, velocity and density;

-Development, dynamics and origin of CMEs;

-Identify the sequence of processes that occur at multiple layers (chromosphere, base and extended corona) which eventually leads to solar eruptive events;

-Magnetic field topology and magnetic field measurements in the solar corona; and drivers for space weather (origin, composition and dynamics of solar wind).

(With inputs from ANI, PTI)

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For investors, the massive market for digital payments used to offer a rare dreamland of growth companies with a low-risk, oligopolistic business. That Cathie Wood is doubling down on it should tell them this was too good to be true.

Woods ARK Investment Management is known for betting on fast-growing technology moonshots and for upping the stakes whenever other investors jump ship. Last week, ARK announced it had nearly doubled its holdings in Dutch payments-processing company Adyen, the shares of which are now worth half what they were on Wednesday of the previous week, before it reported disappointing half-year revenue and earnings.

This underscores how payments-tech or paytech," once seen as a sure shot amid a digital revolution in consumer spending, could become a cutthroat market requiring backers comfortable with risk.

A recent Deutsche Bank survey of consumers in the U.S., the U.K., France, Germany and Italy showed cash in decline as a payment method between 2019 and 2022. Adoption of digital wallets jumped, with Apple Pay as the main beneficiary. Much of this is down to e-commerce, but also a realization that pieces of paper and plastic are far less convenient than a smartphone when buying in-store.

There has been a postpandemic surge in so-called omnichannel customers, who buy from the same brand both physically and virtually, and expect a unified, seamless experience whether they use a card or some e-payment system. They tend to be big, spur-of-the-moment spenders who can renege on a purchase if it doesnt go through, so it is crucial that the technology doesnt glitch out.

Many publicly traded European paytech firms have risen to the task. On top of breakneck revenue growth, investors love their merchants priority for quality over price, as well the high level of firm specialization. Edenred and Eurowag focus on processing employee food vouchers and freight and road payments, respectively. Meanwhile, Nexi and Worldline are skewed toward on-premise spending.

Adyen, as a crown jewel of European tech, epitomized investors enamourment with the sector by having the biggest moat: Rather than starting in the mid market, it first targeted mammoth e-commerce customers such as eBay and Netflix, as well as omnichannel merchants such as Gap and McDonalds. It charges a premium for a top product that, unlike others, it has built fully in-house with a single code base. It has organically become the second-largest merchant acquirer in Europe, data by Citi analyst Pavan Daswani shows.

Yet, suddenly, the company is reporting stiffer competition in the U.S., its second-biggest market, and being undercut on price. This puts a crack in the thesis that a best-in-class paytech platform will necessarily have low churn and almost-insurmountable barriers to entry thanks to network and data advantages.

I dont believe competitors are providing a materially inferior product," said Daswani, who has long had a sell" recommendation on Adyen stock. Payments are so integral to the operation of a merchant that they wouldnt go to a subpar acquirer."

On top of PayPals Braintree, Irish-American firm Stripewhich for now remains privately ownedhas also emerged as a powerful rival, striking partnerships with Airbnb, Zara, WhatsApp and OpenAI. In May, it joined forces with Microsoft and PayPal to launch a new payments app for North American small businesses. And there are challengers such as Britains Checkout.com.

To be sure, some of Adyens supposed woes are exaggerated. Hiring costs have come under fire, but executives were right to poach talent at a time when tech giants were shedding it. Also, despite a slowdown in the usage of websites and apps of its particularly cyclical customers as the European economy weakened, the secular digitization trend remains in place.

We continue to expand our market share, even in the U.S.," said Adyen co-Chief Executive Ingo Uytdehaage, who tried to reassure investors during a recent pre-scheduled roadshow.

Indeed, the problem with paytech isnt the business model, but a market with unrealistic expectations, based on the premise of big margins that wouldnt be competed away. Adyen tops the charts: Even after the selloff, it still trades at 32 times forward earnings.

Investors got a useful reminder that no company generates riskless money. Not even those that process it.
A federal appeals court ruled Tuesday that the Securities and Exchange Commission must reconsider crypto asset manager Grayscale Investments application to launch the first bitcoin exchange-traded fund, the latest setback for SEC Chair Gary Genslers efforts to regulate the upstart industry.

Bitcoin-related assets surged on the news, which traders were betting would pave the way for broad investor adoption of ETFs backed by bitcoin rather than futures. Coinbase Global, the largest publicly traded crypto exchange, rose 14%, and bitcoin futures rose 6%.

The denial of Grayscales proposal was arbitrary and capricious because the Commission failed to explain its different treatment of similar products," Circuit Judge Neomi Rao wrote on behalf of the court, noting that the SEC has approved bitcoin futures ETFs. The ruling was unanimous in a panel of three judges, two of whom were appointed by Democrats.

The decision by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit marks the latest legal setback to Genslers approach to regulating crypto markets. The agency had denied Grayscales application to convert its bitcoin trust, known as GBTC, into an ETF on the basis that spot markets for bitcoin are unregulated and subject to market manipulation.

An SEC spokeswoman said the agency is reviewing the courts decision to determine next steps."

Grayscale called the ruling a monumental step for American investors, the Bitcoin ecosystem, and all those who have been advocating for Bitcoin exposure through the added protections of the ETF wrapper." The company said it is reviewing the courts decision.

The SEC has repeatedly rejected bitcoin ETFs from asset managers such as Fidelity Investments. Currently, the only SEC-approved bitcoin ETFs hold futures contracts, which trade on derivatives exchanges regulated by the Commodity Futures Trading Commission.

Asset management giant BlackRockapplied for a spot bitcoin ETF in June, kicking off another wave of applications and speculation that the SEC might reconsider its stance. Fidelity and Invesco are among the other asset managers that have applied.

Grayscale sued the SEC last year after the agency denied its application, arguing that the agencys prior approval of bitcoin futures ETFs made its rejection of GBTC arbitrary and capricious." It rallied thousands of investors to write comment letters in support of its efforts.

Futures-based ETFs have a potential downside for investors because they must be continually rolled forward as the current months futures contracts expire and the ETFs manager replaces them with contracts from the next available month. If the next months contract is more expensive than the current months contract, the roll process incurs a hidden cost for ETF investors.

Bringing cryptocurrency markets into compliance with longstanding federal regulations is a priority for Gensler, a veteran policy maker who previously taught a class on cryptocurrency at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. He has said most cryptocurrencies in circulation are unregistered securities and has beefed up the SECs team of crypto enforcement attorneys. In June, the SEC sued Coinbase and Binance, the largest global crypto trading platform.

Genslers approach has had some obstacles. Last month, a federal judge ruled partially against the agency in a long-running court battle against Ripple Labs, whose XRP cryptocurrency the SEC alleges to be an unregistered security. The agency is seeking to appeal that ruling, which could undermine the SECs case against Coinbase and other trading platforms if it shapes case law.

Launched in 2013, GBTC is an investment vehicle that buys bitcoin and sells shares to investors, offering them exposure to the cryptocurrency without the challenges of buying and storing it directly. It currently holds $16.2 billion of bitcoin and charges a 2% annual management fee.

For years, GBTC was the only product of its kindan SEC-registered vehicle for gaining exposure to bitcoin. Its shares traded at a premium to the value of its underlying bitcoin holdings until early 2021, when the SEC approved a similar product. Since then its shares have traded at a discount of up to 49%.

Because of its legal status as a trust, GBTC has refused to sell its bitcoin holdings to meet redemption requests from investors, who have punished its share price as result. Grayscale says a conversion into an ETF would enable the trust to continuously meet redemption requests and eventually eliminate the discount.

Gensler has declined to comment specifically on Grayscales product. When asked about potential options for bitcoin ETFs on CNBC in February, he said the path forward is well trodden."

We have tens of thousands of registrants that properly, in good faith, comply, they register, they make the proper disclosures," Gensler said. Its time for this group to do so."

Bitcoin is the only cryptocurrency that Gensler has said is outside the SECs jurisdiction, describing it as a commodity rather than a securitythe category of assets that includes stocks and bonds. But while the CFTC regulates commodity futures, no federal regulator has authority to oversee spot markets for commodities, including cryptocurrencies that fall into this category. Critics of the SECs approach say it makes bitcoin spot ETFs all but impossible.
An international law-enforcement operation has dismantled a network of hundreds of thousands of computers that criminals used to launch cyberattacks against critical industries worldwide, U.S. authorities said Tuesday.

Investigators in the U.S., U.K., France, Germany, the Netherlands, Romania and Latvia took aim at a notorious strain of malware known as Qakbot that had infected more than 700,000 computers, took control of them and enabled them to be leased out to criminal gangs to facilitate more cyberattacks. Justice Department officials said the so-called botnet was used in ransomware attacks, financial and elder fraud, data theft, and more, and caused hundreds of millions of dollars in damage. Authorities said they had developed a tool that excised the malware from victim computers, and had seized nearly $9 million in stolen cryptocurrency related to use of Qakbot.

The campaign, known as Operation Duck Hunt, put an end to what has been described as one of the most devastating cybercriminal tools in history," Donald Alway, a senior official at the Federal Bureau of Investigations Los Angeles field office, told reporters.

Qakbot, which security researchers say has been around since at least 2007, has in recent years been used by ransomware gangs to gain entry into computer networks. Known as a malware loader," Qakbot would help assailants breach a computers defenses and deploy other malware that engineered cyberattacks like ransomware.

Qakbot is the most popular malware loader in use, accounting for 30% of cases involving a loader, according to U.S.-based cybersecurity firm ReliaQuest. Security firms have described Qakbot as among the longest-running and most damaging botnets ever assembled.

Officials declined on Tuesday to identify the gang responsible for Qakbots initial deployment, saying the investigation is ongoing. Qakbot has been under investigation by the FBI since at least 2011, an FBI official said.

U.S. officials did name several ransomware groups that have rented Qakbot to support their extortion campaigns. Among them was Conti, a group linked to Russia that security analysts describe as one of the most prolific and feared cybercriminal groups in the world, responsible for stealing hundreds of millions of dollars by shutting down emergency rooms, city governments and public schools since 2018.

Operation Duck Hunt represents the latest in a string of campaigns by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Justice Department to disrupt cyberattacks rather than merely arresting or indicting hackers. Senior officials have likened the evolution, which has been slowly building for years but has grown as a priority over the last couple of years, as akin to the mission after the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks to thwart terrorist plots before they occur.

The FBI led a worldwide joint, sequenced operation that crippled one of the longest-running cybercriminal botnets," FBI Director Christopher Wray said Tuesday. With our federal and international partners, we will continue to systematically target every part of cybercriminal organizations, their facilitators, and their moneyincluding by disrupting and dismantling their ability to use illicit infrastructure to attack us."

Some security experts applauded the takedown but doubted it would have a serious long-term impact on cybercrime.

These groups will recover and they will be back," said Sandra Joyce, vice president of Mandiant Intelligence at Alphabets Google Cloud unit. But we have a moral obligation to disrupt these operations whenever possible."
Meta Platforms said it has taken down the largest known online covert influence operation in the world, a cross-platform campaign that was aimed at advancing Chinas interests and discrediting its adversaries including the U.S.

In a report released Tuesday, Meta said the effort was largely unsuccessful despite comprising thousands of accounts across more than 50 apps, including about 7,700 of its own Facebook and Instagram, plus YouTube, TikTok, Reddit, Pinterest and X, formerly Twitter. Meta said the operation, known in the security community as Spamouflage," dated back to 2019 and was linked to individuals associated with Chinese law enforcement.

Meta said the China network was pushing positive commentary about the country as well as criticism of the U.S. and western foreign policies. It was run by operators dispersed across China, and many of the accounts were detected and disabled by the companys automated systems. Meta said this likely led to posting on smaller platforms and trying to amplify the content to larger services.

We have not found evidence of this network getting any substantial engagement among authentic communities on our services," Meta said.

The Chinese government has broadly denied targeting the U.S. with online influence campaigns or disinformation. Likewise, Russia has previously denied trying to influence U.S. elections.

Representatives at both the Chinese and Russian embassies in Washington didnt immediately respond to requests for comment.

The takedown was the seventh that Meta said it has removed from China over the past six years. It was also one of several around the globe that Meta said it recently completed, including the disruption of Doppelganger, the largest and most aggressive Russian operation the company has seen. That campaign, which was focused on weakening support for Ukraine by its allies, entailed operators posting links to websites resembling real news outlets and containing pro-Russia narratives. Because those exist off-platform, Meta said they can be difficult to counter.

Enforcements on each individual platform can only go so far in disrupting these internet-wide campaigns while their websites remain live," Meta said.

Meta and other social platforms began sharpening their focus on coordinated campaigns intended to sway public opinion after the identification of Russian government interference in the 2016 U.S. presidential election. A 2019 report from a U.S. Senate committee criticized U.S. tech giants for helping spread disinformation during the 2016 campaign and called for better coordination of efforts to prevent similar activity for future elections.

Covert social-media campaigns are essentially a whack-a-mole problem for platform operators. People seeking to achieve illicit goals through such campaigns are constantly refining their methods to avoid detection, according to security experts.

Some common indicators of malicious activity include posts with spelling and grammar errors and links to unrelated topics. The China networks posts were so spammy that the operation appeared to be prioritizing volume over audience building, said Ben Nimmo, global threat intelligence lead at Meta.

Its throwing spaghetti at the wall to see what sticks," he said, adding that this raises a question of whether the operators were really trying to influence social-media users or simply earn a paycheck. Who is the ultimate targetthe audience or the guys paying the bills?"

Metas latest takedowns come as U.S. relations with China are tense and as the U.S. opposes Russias invasion of Ukraine. In recent months, the White House has confirmed reports of China ramping up its military presence in Cuba, while President Biden called Chinese leader Xi Jinping a dictator. Washington has been preparing measures to curb exports of advanced semiconductors to China and to cut Chinese companies off from U.S. cloud computing platforms.
Bangkok, Thailand  The Queen Sirikit National Convention Centre was abuzz with excitement from August 24th to August 27th, 2023, as it played host to the 67th installment of the renowned Thai Teaw Thai Expo. This annual extravaganza, which serves as a melting pot of cultural heritage, technological innovation, and economic opportunity, drew thousands of visitors and participants from around the globe.

Cultural Splendor and Technological Marvels Converge

Thai Teaw Thai, translating to Made in Thailand, is not just an exhibition but a celebration of the nations rich heritage and modern advancements. The event provides a platform for local artisans, manufacturers, and entrepreneurs to showcase their products, ranging from traditional handicrafts to cutting-edge technologies. The juxtaposition of cultural artifacts alongside technological marvels creates a unique synergy that embodies Thailands journey towards a progressive future while staying rooted in its traditions.

Promoting Economic Growth and Sustainable Practices

One of the primary objectives of the Thai Teaw Thai Expo is to stimulate economic growth by promoting domestic industries and fostering international trade relations. The expo offers a strategic avenue for businesses to network, negotiate deals, and tap into new markets. The Buy Thai, Support Thai initiative is a recurring theme, encouraging visitors to prioritize locally-made products and contribute to the nations economic well-being.

Moreover, the event highlights Thailands commitment to sustainability and eco-conscious practices. Many exhibitors showcased environmentally friendly innovations, from renewable energy solutions to upcycled products, reflecting the countrys dedication to addressing global challenges such as climate change and resource depletion.

Sector Spotlight: Innovation Takes Center Stage

Among the diverse sectors represented at the Thai Teaw Thai Expo, the innovation and technology sector emerged as a standout. Startups and established tech companies alike seized the opportunity to unveil their latest inventions, ranging from AI-powered healthcare devices to smart agricultural solutions. This sector not only symbolizes Thailands rapid progress in the tech domain but also underscores its ambition to be a regional hub for innovation.

Unveiling Opportunities Amid Challenges

In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Thai Teaw Thai Expo 2023 demonstrated the resilience of Thailands business community. While the event adhered to strict health and safety protocols, it did not waver in its objective to connect people, foster collaboration, and showcase the nations potential on a global stage.

Conclusion

The 67th Thai Teaw Thai Expo was more than an exhibition; it was a testament to Thailands dynamism and cultural heritage, proving that tradition and innovation can harmoniously coexist. As the event concluded on August 27th, 2023, its impact reverberates through the corridors of commerce, culture, and technology, reminding us that progress is rooted in the past and fueled by the future.
Peter Do is a Vietnamese-American fashion designer who has quickly made a name for himself in the industry. His eponymous label, which he founded in 2018, is known for its minimalist, elegant designs that are made with high-quality materials. Dos work has been praised by critics and fashion insiders alike, and he has been named one of the most promising young designers to watch.

Do was born in Bien Hoa, Vietnam, and immigrated to the United States with his family at the age of 14. He studied fashion design at the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City, and after graduating, he worked as an intern at several high-profile fashion houses, including Celine and Derek Lam. In 2018, he launched his own label with a collection of minimalist dresses, skirts, and tops.

Dos designs are characterized by their clean lines and precise tailoring. He often uses luxurious fabrics like silk, cashmere, and leather, and his pieces are often finished with delicate details like hand-stitching and embroidery. Dos work is often inspired by his Vietnamese heritage, and he has incorporated traditional Vietnamese elements into his designs, such as the ao dai, a traditional Vietnamese dress.

Dos designs have been worn by celebrities such as Zendaya, Solange, and Rihanna. He has also been featured in fashion magazines such as Vogue, Harpers Bazaar, and Elle. In 2020, he was named one of the co-winners of the LVMH Prize, a prestigious fashion award that recognizes emerging designers.

Do is a rising star in the fashion industry, and his work is sure to continue to be celebrated in the years to come. He is a talented designer with a unique vision, and he is committed to creating high-quality, sustainable clothing.

Here are some of Peter Dos notable achievements:

Co-winner of the LVMH Prize in 2020

Named one of the most promising young designers to watch by The New York Times in 2021

Featured in fashion magazines such as Vogue, Harpers Bazaar, and Elle

His designs have been worn by celebrities such as Zendaya, Solange, and Rihanna

Peter Do is a fashion designer to watch. His work is elegant, minimalist, and made with high-quality materials. He is sure to continue to be a rising star in the industry.

Shayne Heffernan
Gov. Kemp declares a State of Emergency for the entire state of Georgia as Hurricane Idalia makes landfall in Florida.
The Volunteer Behavioral Health Care System is partnering with police departments across the state to make sure suspects dealing with a mental health crisis get the help they need.
Although charges were dropped against former Deputy Daniel Wilkey, a letter by the sheriff's office asking for him to be de-certified as a deputy was rescinded.
The lineup of stars for the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade is announced and one of the Tennessee Valley's own, Lauren Alaina will be a part of the festivities.
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Longford dairy farmers will have to cope with over 27M reduction in milk revenue this year. The latest figures from the ICMSA suggest that tumbling milk prices will see Irish farmers experience a 2bn fall in revenue in 2023.

ICMSA President, Pat McCormack, says the fall in milk prices has wide reaching implications: The milk price reductions so far in 2023 will wipe 2 billion from dairy farmers revenues in 2023 and in turn has reduced spending in rural communities by possibly double that amount and this is going to have a very serious impact not only on the dairy farmers themselves but on the wider rural economy in 2023 and well into 2024.

This year has seen severe cuts to milk price: It comes as no surprise to see the spending power of dairy farmers dramatically deteriorate and this is being reported by businesses across rural communities that provide goods and services to dairy farmers and the wider dairy industry, Mr McCormack said, From concrete to shed suppliers, to milking equipment to farm machinery, the reports coming back is that dairy farmers have stopped buying and investing, only the very basics are being purchased and this is going to have a dramatic impact on the local economy.

ICMSA has carried out a detailed analysis of each of the 26 counties to establish the reduction in revenues earned by dairy farmers over the last two years. Those results show the dramatic drops in milk values with almost 2 billion less expected to be paid to dairy farmers in 2023 versus 2022.

The ICMSA President spoke of the repercussions of this decline: This is an astounding amount to lose from the rural economy as we all know that farmers spend in their local communities and many local services and companies are dependent on farmers. With an output multiplier of two for dairy, the total deficit from the Irish rural economy could be 4 billion for 2023.

The ICMSA analysis used an 'average milk price' of 59cpl for 2022 and an 'expected average price' of 37cpl for 2023 with production expected to fall by 2% year on year given the weather and price conditions prevailing at present.

This means that almost 38% of dairy revenues have been wiped away in the space of 12 months and this analysis does not include the very severe cost elements facing dairy farmers, meaning that dairy farm incomes will be severely hit in 2023, Mr McCormack said, While fertilizer has reduced somewhat, most fertiliser was purchased early in the year or last year at inflated prices and unfortunately, electricity and feed remain stubbornly high.

The ICMSA President spoke of the implications around Ireland: At county level, we see the largest reduction occurring in Cork with almost half a billion of a reduction while Tipperary will lose almost quarter of a billion in direct revenues. These counties have large processors and this is where the multiplier effect can bite even harder with so many indirect jobs depending on the dairy sector.

The ICMSA data suggests that Longford dairy farmers will see Milk Revenue drop by 27,251,943 from 70,555,705 in 2022 to 43,303,762 in 2023. Neighbours Cavan will go from 137M to 86.5M, Roscommon from 34.5M to 22.6M, and Westmeath go from 107M to 67M.

Mr McCormack concluded by saying the milk price reductions have been very severe and will have a massive impact on dairy farmer income in 2023: I am calling on the Minister for Agriculture, Food & Marine to immediately convene a meeting of the Dairy Forum so that a clear strategy can be put in place to kickstart an immediate recovery in milk price which is needed by the farmers who produce the milk on a daily basis but also the wider rural businesses that are dependent on it for their revenues.
SUNY Erie Community College and Buffalo State University have a lot in common as they start a new semester this fall.

Both said goodbye to their former presidents last academic year amid challenging circumstances. They share the same demographic as the two SUNY schools in Western New York that serve the most local, underrepresented, financially challenged and first-generation students. Both have suffered serious enrollment declines that may never recover from the Covid-19 pandemic.

And both hope to name the person who will lead them to stability and success by the end of the year.

Both schools say they are on track to bring candidates for their top job in for interviews around mid-September, and both are keeping the names of potential finalists confidential, at least for now.

Both presidential searches also promise to be somewhat political  Buffalo States candidates may even include actual politicians  and will produce some of the first SUNY presidential appointments under SUNY Chancellor John King, the former U.S. Secretary of Education who took over the top SUNY job in January.

Former ECC president David Balkin, who resigned in December under duress after barely 11 months in office, is among the candidates nominated for the Buffalo State job, he confirmed to The Buffalo News. Other names being bandied about include Buffalo Mayor Byron Brown and U.S. Rep. Brian Higgins, D-Buffalo.

ECCs search is down to four finalists whose names are being kept confidential per SUNY policy, said Jeffrey Stone, chair of ECCs board of trustees. But the four likely include ECCs current officer-in-charge, Adiam Tsegai, who was a finalist in its last presidential search and became acting president after Balkin left.

Heres a look at what we know about where the searches stand.

ECC has four finalists

At ECCs board of trustees August meeting, Stone reported that the colleges search firm, AGB Search of Washington, D.C., received 51 applications for the president job by the July 20 deadline.

The firm and a 21-member search committee that included five ECC trustees sifted through the resumes, narrowed the field to eight semifinalists and held virtual interviews with them over two days, Stone said.

We then voted on four finalists whose names are still confidential per SUNY policy, but they will become known and will visit campus for interviews with various groups and the campus community in mid-September, Stone said.

The campus community will be able to give feedback to the trustees, who will submit a single name to the SUNY board of trustees to vet, interview and either accept or reject, Stone said.

Stone didnt say when the finalists will be announced, but during ECCs last presidential search in 2021, ECC did not release the names of four finalists until after they had visited campus for interviews and presentations to faculty, staff and students.

That search resulted in the appointment of Balkin, who took over in February 2022 with the goal of leading ECC off what Erie County Executive Mark Poloncarz called a path to financial ruin by turning a looming $9 million deficit into a $21 million reserve balance for this year.

Balkin, a Western New York native, came in with a business background, having just turned around an Indiana community college that was in similar straits to ECC.

Charged with making tough decisions to get ECC back on track, Balkin used early retirement incentives and layoffs to eliminate some 210 positions  actions that righted the ship in the words of one trustee  but also made him the enemy of ECCs faculty union leadership, a situation that led to his resignation in December.

Since taking over for Balkin as officer-in-charge, Tsegai has enjoyed strong support from the board of trustees. Tsegai was serving as ECCs chief academic officer and interim provost when she was named a finalist in the 2021 presidential search. After losing the search to Balkin, she was appointed permanent provost by the board of trustees before he arrived. This spring, the board voted to name her acting president  not interim  a title that indicates she is a candidate for the permanent job.

An ECC alum who joined the college as its dean of engineering in 2018, Tsegai has strong connections to the Faculty Federation of ECC and has worked to involve union leadership in decision-making, including naming a faculty member and former FFECC officer as interim associate vice president for academic affairs. She also seems to have a good relationship with SUNY Chancellor King, who has visited the ECC campus several times in his first year in office.

Buffalo State: Is Mayor Brown a candidate?

Meanwhile, Buffalo States former president of nine years, Katherine Conway-Turner, announced last fall she would retire at the end of the academic year in May. Three months after her announcement, state legislators and Buffalo State faculty revealed the university faced at least a $16 million deficit for the coming school year.

In March, Buffalo State launched a search website and announced a 19-member presidential search committee that includes Mo Sumbundu, assistant director of Empire State Development and a recent appointee to the Buffalo State Council, a 10-member panel that oversees university operations.

After Conway-Turner retired, Buffalo State named Bonita R. Durand as interim president, a title that means she is not a candidate for the permanent job. Durand, a former Buffalo State chief of staff, came out of retirement to take the interim role.

The university hired Storbeck Search of Media, Pa., to conduct its search and published a prospectus for its new president. The document says the person will be dedicated to academic excellence, student success, building a diverse community and culture of opportunity for all, open and shared governance, and financial as well as environmental sustainability.

It also specifies that a masters degree from an accredited institution is required. An earned doctorate or other terminal degree from an accredited institution is strongly preferred.

Buffalo State has not revealed the names of any candidate, but Balkin said he was nominated to apply and did so. He holds both a masters degree and a doctorate in engineering from the University of Notre Dame.

Balkin said he would like to help Buffalo State forge closer ties with ECC and that both schools need to pursue opportunities involving the huge workforce changes coming with the spread of artificial intelligence.

IBM just came out with a study saying that in three years, 40% of all jobs will be affected by AI, Balkin said. There are great synergies to be had with ECC and Buffalo State, and both should be helping traditional and nontraditional students to comprehend and apply AI to future career paths.

The other two names that keep coming up as potential candidates are Buffalo Mayor Byron Brown and Rep. Brian Higgins (D-Buffalo). Leaders of Buffalo States faculty union, United University Professions, floated the idea of recruiting Brown to apply for the job in February, a trial balloon that was quickly shot down by Buffalo States Senate Agenda Committee but has recently regained some traction.

Brown does not hold a graduate degree, but Buffalo State UUP President Fred Floss has said that the search committee could opt to consider his 17 years of experience leading the City of Buffalo as more than a substitute for a masters degree. Brown is a Buffalo State alum and cheerleader who has taught political science, public administration and finance courses there for more than a decade.

Buffalo States prospectus also states, As an urban-engaged anchor institution, the President must be a public figure who is broadly known within the community and region.

Brown, 64, dodged the question of whether he would consider throwing his hat in the ring in February, and in July he told The Buffalo News that he intends to finish his four-year term ending in 2025.

But, he added, You never say never. We dont know what the future might hold, he said.

As for Higgins, rumors that he might be a future president of Buffalo State have cropped up for years, but have become more persistent of late. Higgins says he plans to run for re-election to an 11th term in Congress next year.

Higgins, 63, holds a masters degree in public administration from Harvard University and has served in politics most of his life and in Congress since 2005.

Both ECC and Buffalo State face unprecedented challenges as they try to adapt to the changing needs of students and employers. The biggest is declining enrollment paired with a decline in the population of traditional college-age students forecast to take a dive starting in 2025.

Both schools identified that as a key issue in their descriptions of the top job. So whoever is chosen will be expected to bring change.
Health & Wellness, Press Releases

By Long Island Published: August 29 2023

New York Attorney General Letitia James secures a revised $12.5 billion settlement from 3M after objecting to their proposed agreement, ensuring accountability for contaminating drinking water with toxic 'forever chemicals'.

New York Attorney General Letitia James today announced that the 3M Company (3M) has agreed to make significant changes to improve the terms of a proposed $10.5 to $12.5 billion settlement for its role in contaminating millions of Americans drinking water with per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances  commonly referred to as PFAS or toxic forever chemicals. Last month, Attorney General James joined a bipartisan coalition of 22 attorneys general in objecting to 3M's proposed settlement with public water systems, flagging critical issues such as a provision that could have left taxpayers liable for future damages as a result of 3Ms pollution. After negotiations between the coalition of attorneys general and 3M co-led by the Office of the New York State Attorney General (OAG), the revised settlement announced today will address those issues and substantially increase the value of the settlement for participating water systems.

Corporate polluters like 3M should not be able to duck responsibility for contaminating our waters with toxic forever chemicals that have caused devastating health problems, said Attorney General James. I am proud to have helped secure a better deal for the communities across New York and the nation affected by this pollution. This new agreement will ensure 3M is held accountable and I will continue to use the full force of my office to fight for New Yorkers right to clean drinking water.

PFAS chemicals resist degradation in the environment and accumulate in the body. Health effects associated with exposure to PFAS include kidney and testicular cancer, thyroid disease, liver damage, immune system effects, and other conditions. According to the New York State Department of Health, PFAS have been detected in almost 40 percent of public drinking water supplies in the state, including 60 percent of systems serving more than 10,000 people. To date, New York has spent tens of millions of dollars on PFAS cleanup-related costs.

Among other things, 3Ms initial proposed settlement would have required eligible public water systems to waive their legal claims against 3M without knowing what settlement funds they could receive, and in many cases, before knowing the extent of contamination in their water supplies and the ongoing cost of remediating a forever chemical. Most critically, the settlement contained provisions that would have required water providers to assume future liability, potentially leaving taxpayers to cover the costs of damages caused by 3Ms pollution.

The new settlement will incorporate several critical changes that are reflected in a proposed consent order filed with the U.S. District Court for the District of South Carolina:

The uncapped indemnity in favor of 3M, which could have left water systems liable for damages well beyond their expected recovery from the settlement, is removed in its entirety, significantly increasing the value of the settlement to participating water systems;

The deadline for eligible water systems to review the settlement and determine whether to opt-out is extended to 90 days;

The establishment of a settlement-specific website with information that will allow water systems to derive a good-faith estimate of what they may receive under the 3M settlement agreement if they participate in it (although actual settlement awards will depend on data that is not yet available); and

Claims by states and the federal government are expressly carved out of the agreement, allowing for future action and additional settlements against 3M.

Joining Attorney General James in withdrawing opposition to the proposed settlement are the attorneys general of Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Hawaii, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Tennessee, Texas, Vermont, Wisconsin, and the District of Columbia, as well as the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands and the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico.

Attorney General James has consistently sought to hold PFAS manufacturers accountable for their pollution and protect New Yorkers' access to clean water and a healthy environment. She led multistate coalitions calling on leaders in Congress to strengthen public health and environmental protections against PFAS chemicals in November 2021. Attorney General James also led a coalition in July 2019 urging Congress to pass legislation that would help states address and prevent future PFAS pollution. This past March, Attorney General James led a lawsuit with Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Commissioner Basil Seggos against 29 New York companies for illegally dumping waste. In May 2022, Attorney General James brought a lawsuit against three New York City bus companies for violating city and state bus idling laws and causing significant air pollution. In May 2020, Attorney General James led a coalition of nine attorneys general to sue the Trump administration for limiting enforcement of environmental protection laws. In 2018, she filed a suit against manufacturers of PFAS, including 3M.

This matter is being handled by Senior Advisor and Special Counsel M. Umair Khan of the Executive Division and Assistant Attorney General Mihir A. Desai and Watershed Inspector General and Senior Counsel Philip Bein of the Environmental Protection Bureau. The Environmental Protection Bureau is a part of the Division for Social Justice, which is led by Chief Deputy Attorney General Meghan Faux. The Executive Division and the Division for Social Justice are both overseen by First Deputy Attorney General Jennifer Levy.
Crime

By Chris Boyle Published: August 29 2023

Matthew Familia Allegedly Supplied Anthony Trimboli with the Counterfeit Pills Containing Fentanyl That Trimboli Allegedly Sold to Multiple Victims, Causing One Death.

Suffolk County District Attorney Raymond A. Tierney today announced that Anthony Trimboli, 34, of Bayport, was indicted for allegedly selling fentanyl-laced pills, including to a 40-year-old woman which caused her to overdose and die. Trimbolis alleged supplier, Matthew Familia, 40, of Bayport, was also indicted for illegally possessing a cache of counterfeit pills, drugs, ammunition feeding devices, and an unregistered assault weapon.

We will not sit back and continue to watch as unsuspecting people in Suffolk County die from ingesting fentanyl-laced counterfeit pills. My Office will continue to investigate these tragic deaths and work tirelessly to bring the dealers and their suppliers of these dangerous pills to justice, said District Attorney Tierney. I continue to urge New York State legislators to amend the current laws to increase the penalty for dealers who cause these preventable deaths and allow us to ask for bail on those selling deadly fentanyl.

According to the investigation, on January 31, 2023, Trimboli allegedly sold a 33-year-old man counterfeit oxycodone pills that contained fentanyl out of his Bayport home.After ingesting the pill that Trimboli allegedly sold him, the victim suffered an immediate overdose. Although the victim survived, he suffered permanent physical impairment.

On February 4, 2023, Trimboli allegedly sold counterfeit oxycodone pills containing fentanyl and counterfeit Xanax pills out of his home to a 40-year-old Centereach woman. That victim ingested those pills and suffered an immediate overdose. The victim was treated at Stony Brook University Hospital, where she was found to have a lethal level of fentanyl in her blood. As a result, she later died at the hospital, never regaining consciousness.

The Suffolk County Police Departments Narcotics Section conducted a long-term investigation into Trimboli, that resulted in Trimboli allegedly selling counterfeit oxycodone and Xanax pills containing illicit substances such as fentanyl, cocaine, and clonazolam to undercover detectives. While clonazolam is not considered a controlled substance in New York State, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has labeled it as an imminent hazard to public safety.

On July 27, 2023, a search warrant was executed at a residence in Bayport that Trimboli and Familia shared. During the search, Trimboli was found in possession of a cellular phone he allegedly used to distribute illicit substances. Familia, who is alleged to have supplied Trimboli with cocaine and counterfeit pills, was allegedly found in possession of a cache of counterfeit pills, cocaine, ketamine, packaging materials, scales, three high-capacity ammunition feeding devices, and an unregistered assault weapon.

On August 25, 2023, Trimboli was arraigned on the indictment by the Honorable Richard I. Horowitz, for the following charges:

Four counts of Criminal Sale of Controlled Substance in the Third Degree, Class B felonies;

Four counts of Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the Third Degree, Class B felonies;

Three counts of Attempted Criminal Sale of a Controlled Substance in the Fifth Degree, Class E felonies; and

Three counts of Attempted Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the Fifth Degree, Class E felonies.

Judge Horowitz ordered Trimboli held on $300,000 cash, $600,000 bond, or $3 million partially secured bond. Trimboli is due back in court on September 28, 2023, and is being represented by Katherine Fernandez, Esq.

On August 25, 2023, Trimboli was arraigned on the indictment by Judge Horowitz, for the following charges:

One count of Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the Second Degree, a Class A-II felony;

Four counts of Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the Third Degree, Class D violent felonies;

Three counts of Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the Third Degree, Class B felonies;

Two counts of Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the Fifth Degree, Class D felonies;

One count of Attempted Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the Fifth Degree, a Class E felony; and

Two counts of Criminal Use of Drug Paraphernalia in the Second Degree, Class A misdemeanors.

Judge Horowitz ordered Familia held on $200,000 cash, $400,000 bond or $2 million partially secured bond. Familia is due back in court on September 28, 2023, and is being represented by Ramond Doyle, Esq.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant District Attorneys Nicole Felice and Raquel Tisi of the Narcotics Bureau, with investigative assistance from Detective Paul Ruotolo of the Suffolk County Police Departments Narcotics Section.
Food, Wine, & Dining

By Lon Cohen Published: September 05 2023

Ben Cohen and Jerry Greenfield went to high school together in Merrick.

The story of Ben & Jerry's, the ice cream company known for its delicious flavors and commitment to social and environmental causes, is not only about frozen treats but also about the deep connections its founders, Ben Cohen and Jerry Greenfield, share with Long Island. Beyond the creamy scoops and imaginative flavors, their journey began with friendship, innovation, and a shared love for community engagement. We delve into the roots of Ben & Jerry's founders on Long Island and how their experiences shaped the iconic brand.

Growing Up on Long Island

Ben Cohen and Jerry Greenfield both spent their early years growing up on Long Island. Ben was born in Brooklyn and raised in Merrick. Jerry, on the other hand, was born in Brooklyn and raised in Hewlett. Their upbringing on the island set the stage for their lifelong friendship and eventual partnership.

Connection Through Shared Values

Cohen and Greenfield's friendship began during their high school years when they both attended Calhoun High School in Merrick. Their bond deepened due to their shared passion for food, a sense of humor, and a mutual interest in making a positive impact on their community. These shared values would later become fundamental pillars of their ice cream business.

From Scoops to Success

After high school, the duo embarked on separate paths for a while, but their entrepreneurial spirits eventually brought them back together. In 1978, with a $5 correspondence course in ice cream making from Penn State University and a $12,000 investment, they opened their first ice cream parlor in Burlington, Vermont. The business grew rapidly due to their innovative flavors, high-quality ingredients, and commitment to social causes.

Photo: Ben & Jerry's Facebook page.

Translating Long Island's Community Spirit

One of the key elements that distinguished Ben & Jerry's was their dedication to community engagement, a trait they likely inherited from their experiences on Long Island. This commitment to community was reflected in their business practices, as they actively sought to engage with their customers and contribute to local causes.

Social Responsibility and Activism

Ben & Jerry's became renowned not only for their delectable ice creams but also for their outspoken advocacy on social and environmental issues. The company embraced the concept of "caring capitalism," focusing on creating a positive impact on society while running a successful business.

The story of Ben & Jerry's is a testament to the power of friendship, shared values, and the influence of one's upbringing. Ben Cohen and Jerry Greenfield's connection to Long Island played a significant role in shaping their approach to business and community engagement.

Their journey from Long Island to founding one of the world's most beloved ice cream companies demonstrates the impact that a strong sense of community, shared values, and social responsibility can have on the world.

As Long Island continues to foster a diverse and vibrant community spirit, the legacy of Ben & Jerry's founders serves as an inspiration for future entrepreneurs and changemakers.

Photo: Ben & Jerry's Facebook page.

Here's a list of interesting facts about Ben & Jerry's Ice Cream:
Local News

By Chris Boyle Published: August 29 2023

CDC officials have expressed concern that Pirola may prove to be highly contagious and could result in an uptick of hospitalizations amid a series of breakthrough infections.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has announced that they have identified a new and highly-mutated strain of the COVID-19 virus, a variant known as BA.2.86 which has now been dubbed "Pirola."

CDC officials have expressed concern that Pirola may prove to be highly contagious and could result in an uptick of hospitalizations amid a series of new, breakthrough infections.

So far, the Pirola variant has been detected in patients in Michigan, Virginia, and Ohio, according to the CDC in a statement, and researchers are already accounting for this new and potent strain in current vaccine production.

"BA.2.86 may be more capable of causing infection in people who have previously had COVID-19 or who have received COVID-19 vaccines," the statement reads. "Scientists are evaluating the effectiveness of the forthcoming, updated COVID-19 vaccine. CDCs current assessment is that this updated vaccine will be effective at reducing severe disease and hospitalization."

The CDC noted that while Pirola may result in a jump in the number of reported infections, so far the resulting cases of COVID-19 are not proving to display any additional degree of severity in terms of symptoms when compared to previous variants.

"At this point, there is no evidence that this variant is causing more severe illness," the CDC said. "That assessment may change as additional scientific data are developed. CDC will share more as we know more."

Pirola was initially discovered in Israel, with additional cases being reported in countries such as Denmark, United Kingdom, South Africa, and now the United States; the initial case detected here was from a woman who had recently returned from visiting Japan.

Currently, Pirola is considered an offshoot of the Omicron COVID-19 variant by the World Health Organization (WHO), although research is ongoing and more information on the new strain is expected to be delivered later this week.
Local News

By Chris Boyle Published: August 29 2023

Wadsworth Lab monitoring samples for new BA.2.86 variant - dubbed "Pirola" - not yet detected in New York State.

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced new steps the State of New York is taking to protect individuals from COVID-19 following reports of a new variant, BA.2.86. These steps come after COVID-19 hospitalizations in New York increased as the summer progressed. As a reminder, an updated COVID-19 vaccine tailored to guard against certain variants is expected to arrive in pharmacies and doctors offices this Fall.

While New Yorkers might want to be done with COVID-19, COVID-19 isnt done with us, Governor Hochul said. With the increase in hospitalizations and reported cases this summer, I strongly urge everyone to take appropriate precautions to protect themselves and their communities. To keep New Yorkers safe, my administration will continue to monitor this situation, share information on the new boosters as soon as its available, and continue to make N-95 masks available statewide.

Earlier this year, the Food and Drug Administration advised vaccine manufactures to develop a new COVID-19 vaccine to target Omicron variants. The new shot is expected to be released by the three major COVID-19 vaccine producers in September 2023. Governor Hochul encourages New Yorkers to monitor the CDC and the New York State Department of Health (DOH) websites frequently for information on updated COVID-19 vaccine administration recommendations.

To protect all New Yorkers, DOH and the Wadsworth Center continue monitoring for and analyzing samples of SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, as reports emerge of new strains. The ongoing dual surveillance strategies of wastewater surveillance and laboratory clinical analysis, conducted with partners at Syracuse University and across the state, have proven vital to New York State's ability to understand variant spread and the potential impact on public health. In response to identifying the new BA.2.86 variant, the Wadsworth Center immediately enhanced early detection efforts in New York State. In conjunction with the collaborators at Syracuse University, analysts searched wastewater data from the last six months to confirm the new strain was not detected in New York. This process will continue to be used to help monitor for the variant in new wastewater samples. Additionally, Wadsworth Center is coordinating with numerous health care professionals across the state and collaborating laboratories to expand the pool of clinical COVID samples submitted for analysis to increase the opportunity for detecting BA.2.86, should it enter the state.

State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald said, "The Department of Health remains vigilant for changes to the virus that could further threaten our public health. We continue to monitor as new strains have emerged, with a particular focus on BA.2.86, the most genetically different strain we have seen since the original Omicron variant. These significant changes are important to note as mutations may allow the virus to evade prior immunity. Remember, COVID is now a treatable disease and tests are both easy and highly accurate. Antivirals such as Paxlovid are most effective when started within five days of the onset of symptoms."

As students begin to return to school for the next academic year, Governor Hochul and DOH recommend that schools review current CDC school guidance for COVID-19 prevention and work with their local health department to implement effective and feasible public health measures.

To prevent the spread of COVID-19, the CDC recommends schools:

Promote vaccination and testing;

Encourage students, teachers, and faculty to stay home if they are sick and exhibiting symptoms;

Optimize ventilation and maintain improvements to indoor air quality to reduce the risk of germs and contaminants spreading through the air; and

Teach and reinforce proper handwashing and hygiene practices.

Schools that experience outbreaks should work with their local health department for timely outbreak response support. More guidance for schools is available here.

All individuals who have symptoms of COVID-19 should immediately get tested. If a test is positive, consult a health care provider about treatment, as it's important to begin treatment soon after the onset of symptoms to ensure the utmost effectiveness. Individuals who do not have a regular health care provider can find locations for treatment here. Those with COVID-19 should follow CDC guidance to avoid transmitting it to others, including isolating for 5 days after the onset of symptoms, as well as masking and avoiding contact with those who may be at higher risk of negative outcomes.

At-home tests are available at many local pharmacies statewide, and New York continues to make high-quality N-95 masks and test kits available to state and county officials by request. New Yorkers should contact their respective county health department or local emergency management office for more information.

The New York State Department of Health recently contacted nursing home providers statewide to alert them of the increase in COVID-19 infections reported over the past several weeks, and to remind facilities of measures that can be taken to help reduce transmission among vulnerable populations.

Individuals who have not yet been vaccinated or are behind on booster doses can find the current COVID-19 vaccine sites here.
New York will receive more than $2 billion through settlement agreements with opioid manufacturers. A portion of these settlements are going directly to municipalities statewide, with the remainder dedicated to supporting prevention, treatment, recovery, harm reduction, and education efforts to address the ongoing opioid epidemic.

The opioid crisis is not just a public health issue - it is a crisis of humanity that touches every corner of the state, Governor Hochul said. "This funding underscores our commitment to holding manufactures and distributors accountable while ensuring affected communities have the resources and compassion needed to end this epidemic.

Governor Kathy Hochul has announced the launch of further funding opportunities to develop harm reduction inventions for priority populations who are particularly vulnerable to overdose, as well as study fatalities connected to opioids statewide. The New York State Department of Health recently posted two new Requests for Applications and directed additional investments in several harm reduction programs financed through the States Opioid Settlement Fund . These investments represent one component of Governor Hochuls comprehensive approach to addressing New York State's opioid crisis.

New York State Health Department Commissioner James McDonald said, Opioid use disorder and other drug dependencies can be challenging chronic diseases, yet are treatable and long-term recovery is possible. In order to combat the overdose epidemic, New York State has implemented a multifaceted strategy under the direction of Governor Hochul. This funding aims to increase access to harm reduction services, including medications to treat addiction, supportive counseling, and other preventive health care services. It also includes a comprehensive training program for coroners who serve an important role in public health.



New York State Office of Addiction Services and Supports Commissioner Dr. Chinazo Cunningham said, "The Opioid Settlement Fund is helping to expand access to harm reduction and other supports across New York State, in particular for high-need individuals and populations who may face barriers accessing services. Harm reduction saves lives, and initiatives like this are vital in connecting people to the help and resources that they need. We look forward to continued collaboration with the Governor and our partner agencies to ensure that all New Yorkers can access services, no matter where they live."



New York State Office of Mental Health Commissioner Dr. Ann Sullivan said, This funding will be targeted to help New Yorkers who most need our support  high-risk individuals in underserved areas of the state. These resources will enable us to fight the tragedy of the opioid crisis by expanding and strengthening culturally relevant harm reduction and treatment services, and we at OMH are proud to partner with the Department of Health in this critical work.

State Senator Nathalia Fernandez said, Under the direction of Governor Hochul, this initiative allocates much needed funds towards innovative harm reduction solutions aimed at curbing overdose fatalities among at-risk communities. These investments reflect a pivotal stride in New York's fight against the opioid crisis, underscoring our commitment to healing and prevention. Through strategic partnerships and comprehensive training programs, we endeavor to save lives, foster recovery, and create a healthier, more resilient state for all."



Other programs allocated funding by the Department through the Opioid Settlement Fund include expansion of harm reduction programs ($12.5 million) and New York Medication Assisted Treatment & Emergency Referrals (NY-MATTERS) in partnership with University of Buffalo Medical Department ($8 million), collectively totaling $28 million in allocated funding.



Additionally, to date, the New York State Department of Health has spent more than $13.5 million to provide naloxone to Opioid Overdose Prevention Programs between April 2022 and March 2023. More than 35,000 instances of naloxone administrations have been reported since 2006. Of this, over 20,000 administrations have been reported by community members, with over 11,000 coming from the Departments syringe exchange programs. The agencys Naloxone Co-Payment Assistance Program (N-CAP) covers up to a $40 co-payment for naloxone at pharmacies, and has processed 9,683 claims from July 2022 through June 2023, with an average co-pay of $16.

For additional information on harm reduction services, visit NYSDOH Safer Choices for People Who Use Drugs: https://www.health.ny.gov/community/opioid_epidemic/user_health/.

Available addiction treatment including crisis/detox, inpatient, residential, or outpatient care can be found using the Office of Addiction Services and Supports (OASAS) Treatment Availability Dashboard or on the agency's website. New Yorkers struggling with an addiction, or whose loved ones are struggling, can find help and hope by calling the state's toll-free, 24-hour, 7-day-a-week HOPEline at 1-877-8-HOPENY (1-877-846-7369) or by texting HOPENY (Short Code 467369).
Risa Paonessa has served kosher-style deli sandwiches, knishes and matzo ball soup to Buffalonians for 40 years.

Since 2009, Paonessa has carried on her mission hidden inside an anodyne downtown office building. Miss the dinky sign and youd never know Risas Deli & Catering is inside 285 Delaware Ave.

Today, Risas is the only example of kosher-style deli in Buffalo. Time will tell whether it will be the last.

Her chicken matzo ball soup ($5.95-$11.95) includes noodles, which is controversial in some circles, but not at Risas.

Housemade knishes ($3) in tender pastry are filled with potato, broccoli-cheddar or sometimes kasha, which is buckwheat groats. Brace yourself: Their shapes vary, evoking the hands that made them.

A lot of New Yorkers come in and they like the square ones, Paonessa noted.

Sandwiches ($5.50-$11.75) run from grilled cheese to Reuben. Corned beef or pastrami with chopped liver, on rye with mustard ($10.95) is the Carol Chaning. Like Risas special sandwiches, a Broadway stars name has been deliberately misspelled, perhaps to avoid copyright beefs.

Dr. Browns sodas ($1.85), egg creams ($2.50) and phosphates ($2.25) are among beverage choices.

Breakfast is served from 7:30 to 11 a.m., when you can order a bacon, egg and cheese sandwich on bagel, roll, English muffin or croissant ($5.50) or a bowl of oatmeal or cream of wheat ($2.95).

Risa Paonessa, who will only give her age as late 60s, could retire, and not have to rise before dawn to trek to her workplace. Asked why she still works, Paonessa starts taking about her father, Anthony Gengo, better known as Stumpy, Buffalos king of corned beef, who ran Ralphs on Hertel Avenue, later Stumpys Deli. Her mother Anne Gengos parents owned Sandlers, a hotel with restaurant and bar on Washington Street in the 1960s. Today, its called Washington Square.

My dad didnt want us to get into the business, Paonessa said. He wanted my sister Sherry and I to go to law school. After we decided we didnt want to do that, I told my father, You know what, Dad? Not everyone likes lawyers. They love restaurant people. 

Accompanying her father around town, in shops and other restaurants, I saw how people knew him, and recognized him when we went out, happy to see him, she said. I liked that feeling.

My dad was Italian, and he converted to Judaism to marry my mother. But my sister and I both married Italians. Because that was what he was all about, you know, that warmth? she said.

Today, Sherrys daughter Sarah Cucinotta works alongside her aunt at Risas.

At first, she called her place Stumpys Delights, but now its Risas, which is more precise, since she is a main ingredient.

At my fathers restaurant, those waitresses had regulars whod come across the street, and when they sat down at the counter, their order was there, Paonessa said, referencing an article posted in her restaurant. And if they said, Oh, I was going to have something different today, the girls would say, Tomorrow. Its ready for you now, youre eating it now.

Today, despite everything that has changed in the world around her deli counter, Risa Paonessa is there at 7:30 a.m. most weekdays.

Therell be a customer that walks in and says, Ill have a Stumpys, and they dont say seedless, Stumpys daughter said. And we know they take seedless. So we have to remind them sometimes.Risas Deli & Catering

285 Delaware Ave. (risa-restaurant.com, 716-842-6860)

Hours: 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. weekdays
(Alliance News) - IG Group Holdings PLC on Tuesday said June Felix has stepped down as chief executive officer due to "her health situation".

The London-based, contracts-for-difference trading platform said Felix will step down as CEO immediately and leave the company on September 29. Felix has been on medical leave since the start of July. She has served as CEO since October 2018, having been a non-executive director since 2015.

The board has appointed headhunters Russell Reynolds to undertake the search for a new permanent CEO and expects to find one in the coming months. In the meantime, Chief Financial Officer Charlie Rozes will continue as acting CEO. Rozes has been CFO since May 2020 and became acting CEO as well back in July.

Chair Mike McTighe said on Monday: "We thank [Felix] for the significant contribution she has made over the past eight years as a board member and especially as group CEO for almost five years. During her tenure as CEO, the company has successfully pursued a strategy to diversify the business while at the same time strengthening its core [over-the-counter] business, resulting in a doubling of the group's revenue and profit over the period."

IG Group confirmed it will provide a trading update for its financial first quarter on September 14.

Shares were up 1.4% at 676.00 pence early Tuesday in London.

By Tom Waite, Alliance News editor

Comments and questions to newsroom@alliancenews.com

Copyright 2023 Alliance News Ltd. All Rights Reserved.
Europe. Mysterious, foreboding. Websters defines Europe as

Hang on. Sorry. That was the lede to the Macalopes 7th-grade paper on Europe. Lets just skip that. Because you know what Europe is. You might have even been there. You might be there now. One thing is for certain, European governments enjoy telling Apple what to do.

Thats not necessarily a bad thing. The Macalope would certainly like to tell Apple what to do from time to time. (Note to self: move to Europe, start grassroots movement demanding the return of the iPhone mini.)

Take the Netherlands. Websters defines Netherlands as

Dang it. Sorry. Sorry. These pages are all mixed up. Its hard to file things correctly with hooves.

Okay. Here we go. The Netherlands successfully got Apple to allow dating apps to use payment processes outside the App Store, even if Apple did continue to demand its cut of the payments. Look, do you want a date or not? That was at least some mild progress on an issue Apple has been stubborn about.

Some other legislation is more open for debate.

IDG

First off is the European Unions requirement that devices be standardized on USB-C. This is so that people dont have to worry about buying every proprietary charger in existence, which can be a barrier to switching devices and just a general pain. The Macalope already has such a confusing collection of all-white cables from Apple (USB-A to Lighting, USB-C to Lightning, USB-A to USB-C, USB-C to USB-C, and somewhere some USB-A to 30-pin dock connector) that hes not that against calling the whole thing off. If the company didnt make the white so strong that they dont weather much, itd probably be easier to tell them apart.

The current rumor for the iPhone 15 has it shipping with USB-C cables to match the new connectors on the devices, as well as in colors that match the iPhone. That will at least also make them stand out from the old ones.

Would it make certain things easier to have one cable for everything? Absolutely. Does forcing every device to use the same cable allow them to be the best devices they can be? Certainly not all of them, no. Lets say a manufacturer makes the worlds smallest phone (dont threaten the Macalope with a good time). The trick is, that it needs a teenie tiny cable to power it, or they cant make it that small. This phone could not be sold in the European Union.

This is, of course, small phone fan fiction. Of which the Macalope has a whole drawer. Right above the one filled with unidentifiable white cables. The Macalope doesnt get as hot as some about this issue, though. He can see benefits both ways.

Not so the next one.

Changes to UK Surveillance Regime May Violate International Law

The U.K. governments proposed legislation will demand a back door to any encrypted messaging service in the name of protecting people from terrorists, pedophiles, thieves, unlicensed cockney chimneysweeps, and probably all those scary clowns that kept showing up in 2016. Certainly, theres no downside to this. Other than the fact that back doors that only the government can use and will only use appropriately are an absolute pipe dream. A veritable Idris Elba of a pipe. Just completely dreamy.

Oh, also, did the Macalope mention that companies would be required to submit any security updates to the U.K. government for approval? Yeah, because, uh, they might be using the fixed vulnerabilities to exploit devices and we wouldnt want to make that not possible anymore. Better to have vulnerabilities.

This is 100 pounds of hot expletive deleted in a 10-pound bag. This is real We had to destroy the village to save the village thinking. You cannot protect your citizens by making them less safe. Cables are a fine thing to argue about, but there should be no argument here.

Apple, as well as other companies, have indicated that if this bill passes, they simply will not be able to ship their messaging products in the U.K. End of story. These companies are not willing to remove protections for all their customers so the U.K. government can give law enforcement a free look inside the lives of its citizens. Nor should they be. Apple went through a similar argument with the FBI and refused to back down, so the Macalope has little doubt it will do what it has to here, as well.

The company doesnt always do whats in the best interests of its customers, but this is one instance when the Macalope is glad it has our backs.
Manchester, VT (05254)

Today

Periods of rain. High 49F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 100%. Rainfall around a quarter of an inch..

Tonight

Rain showers this evening with clearing overnight. Low 31F. Winds NW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 50%.
Nobody will be happier than Erie County Executive Mark Poloncarz on Friday, when August turns to September.

Thats because, like the protagonist Alexander in the famed 1972 childrens book, Poloncarz had what can only be described as a Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad month.

Poloncarz was breezing unopposed on the Democratic side in his quest for an unprecedented fourth term in office. Feisty challenger Nate McMurray in February announced he was shutting down his primary campaign soon after it began.

And as Junes primaries came and went, Poloncarz continued to add money to his significant war chest as political adversaries like Joe Lorigo and Mickey Kearns  who was once floated as a potential challenger to Poloncarz  became the subjects of government investigations.

But August was anything but a breeze for Poloncarz.

His welcoming stance toward asylum-seekers coming to New York City and later, Erie County, from the southern U.S. border came back to bite him politically when two asylees were accused of rape and sexual assault at Cheektowaga hotels.

That caused Poloncarz earlier this month to put a pause on the acceptance of any new asylum-seekers from New York City to Erie County.

Some of the more than 500 asylum-seekers are now being transferred out of Cheektowaga to areas like Amherst, where they are assumed to be more welcome. (Though if you follow the Twitter account of the Amherst GOP, youll see thats not necessarily the case.)

The migrant issues became instant political fodder for Republican Chrissy Casilio, the Clarence business owner who is challenging Poloncarz. Casilio, in fact, is hosting a community forum Tuesday night in Cheektowaga with other GOP lawmakers where residents will be encouraged to share their concerns.

Erie County Democratic Chairman Jeremy Zellner on Saturday called the upcoming forum fake and said the forum will not be about solutions but about tearing our community apart for the sake of a few votes. Republican Chairman Michael Kracker said in the wake of Democratic silence, the GOP is just giving people an opportunity to voice their concerns to people who are willing to do something about it.

Politically, the migrant issue is damaging for Poloncarz but certainly one he could overcome. What he didnt need was another political scandal like the one that developed late last week, when he was accused in a Buffalo police domestic incident report of grabbing and restraining a 53-year-old woman he appeared to be dating.

In an interview with Buffalo News reporter Jay Tokasz, Poloncarz denied grabbing or restraining the woman in any way, and he said he did nothing to merit a police report being filed.

This past Saturday I got into a disagreement with a woman I was seeing over some text messages she found on my phone. It led to a long, emotional discussion that resulted in a tough breakup, Poloncarz said in an interview with The News.

I did not, as the report alleges, pin her up against the window. I did not restrain her, Poloncarz said. And Im just disappointed that a really private moment, an emotional moment in regards to the breakup is now public. But I understand Im a public official and that happens.

Republicans immediately seized on the issue, calling it the latest example of hothead behavior by the county executive and moving the discussion from Poloncarzs policies to his personal life. By Friday, county Republicans were already circulating a new graphic on the issue that resembled a political mailer.

Only two people  Poloncarz and the woman who filed the report  know what truly happened. But it probably wont help Poloncarz with women voters, especially since his opponent is a woman.

Sources in the Poloncarz camp acknowledge that August was a rough month for their campaign. But they emphasize that fundraising has remained strong and that voters understand that the most recent controversy involves Poloncarzs private life and not his management of the county. And they suggest that Casilio  who weathered a controversy of her own earlier this year regarding social media  has high negatives to which they will draw attention later in the campaign.

But for now, the only positive for Poloncarz to take away from August is that (as of Friday) it will finally be over.

In case you missed it

GOP operatives and native Western New Yorkers Chris Grant and Stefan Mychajliw are heavily involved in the presidential campaign of Vivek Ramaswamy, Jerry Zremski reports. The 38-year-old tech billionaire generated lots of buzz from his recent debate performance, though media critic Margaret Sullivan, formerly of The Buffalo News, the New York Times and the Washington Post, has a piece

in the Guardian calling Ramaswamy Americas demagogue in waiting.

Jill Terreri

recent claims about marijuana policy by State Sen. George Borrello, a Sunset Bay Republican, for PolitiFact.

Robert R. Catalino, an industrial arts teacher at Lake Shore Central High School who served four terms as Town of Evans supervisor,

in his Angola home after a lengthy illness. He was 88.

News Albany Bureau Chief Chris Bragg

New York State is facing an onslaught of lawsuits accusing prison officers of sexually abusing adult inmates. Most of the Western New York cases claim sexual abuse occurred at the Albion Correctional Facility in Orleans County.
In a move aimed at improving equity for gender and sexual minorities, the city of Boston will no longer print gender markers on marriage certificates and will implement other standards for discussing gender across city departments.

Kimberly Rhoten, director of policy and strategic initiatives in the Mayors Office of Returning Citizens, was the first to receive a marriage certificate without gender markers on Tuesday. Rhoten, who identifies as nonbinary, married their partner on June 10.

I have eagerly awaited a transformative future when my identity and the identities of my community would be recognized and respected by the institutions that govern us, Rhoten said. Fortunately, a marriage certificate is a symbol of love and commitment, but unfortunately for people like me, the certificates outdated and narrow gender markers were a glaring reminder that our city still had a long way to go to acknowledging our existence. They were a subtle, yet powerful message that our love, our relationships and our identities were somehow less valid.

Rhoten also noted that for those whose gender identity changes over time and later identify as a different gender from when they were married, they will no longer have to worry about whether their marriage certificate reflects who they are.

City Registrar Paul Chong said at a press conference Tuesday that about 5,000 couples come to City Hall each year to apply to be married.

The change to marriage certificates was based on new guidelines and standards for city departments to refer to regarding when and how to ask about constituents sex and gender.

District 1 City Councilor Gabriela Coletta recalled that when she hired one of her current staffers, a trans man, the employment paperwork required him to provide his legal name, which was not the name he went by after his transition. In addition, when they set up his work email account, the address once again included his legal name.

Coletta proposed an ordinance to use more gender-inclusive language in City Hall, which was unanimously approved by City Council and has since been signed by Mayor Michelle Wu.

This is a very important step forward for a more accessible, inclusive and welcoming City Hall, municipal government, and hopefully itll reverberate to the state and hopefully throughout the country, Coletta said.
Car horns were honking and students were chanting as resident assistants at Tufts University held an unfair labor practice strike during move-in day on Tuesday, Aug. 29.

The United Labor of Tufts Resident Assistants (ULTRA) members were picketing outside the Joyce Cummings Center on Tufts Medford campus in response to ongoing negotiations in the unions first-time contract with the University. The center is the same building where first-year students were checking in for move-in day.

ULTRA claims that Tufts has repeatedly rejected their proposal to provide resident assistants (RA) a financial compensation in the form a wage stipend. The union announced the strike Friday after claiming that the university refused to make any response to their previous counter proposal during their last bargain position.

Senior David Whittingham, whose is a second-year RA and member of ULTRAs bargaining committee, told MassLive Tuesday that Tufts then sent a threatening email to students.

They essentially made threats that anyone who violated the student code of conduct or created a hostile campus environment would be addressed by an appropriate staff member, Whittingham said. The folks at our union saw that as essentially overly broad language that they were using and that was essentially restricting our ability to freely form and associate and engage in collective action as a union.

The union now claims that the university has unfairly threatened resident assistants for engaging in federally protected collective action. ULTRA filed an unfair labor practice charge in response.

RAs at Tufts University get free room and board but are not paid otherwise. Students move back onto campus three weeks early to participate in full-time training and a variety of duties during move-in and orientation, Whittingham said.

Most RAs also struggle financially. Whittingham claims that 70% of RAs are on financial aid and work a second or third job. On top of that, some students are paying high rent prices for apartments in the Boston area. Essentially, Whittingham said RAs just want to be paid directly.

We find this to be a pretty reasonable ask for the work that we do to support the university and also the types of students who typically take this job, Whittingham said. We think this is, for all of the above, a beyond reasonable ask of the university.

Read More: MBTA outlines slew of September service disruptions

The union and the University have been negotiating since February. While the university claims it has been addressing the unions concerns, it usually takes up to a year to negotiate a first-time contract, according to a statement from Kalimah Redd Knight, senior deputy director of Media Relations at Tufts University.

As we have gone through the bargaining process, we have benchmarked what our peer institutions offer Resident Assistants, the statement reads. We believe that a room and board plan both aligns with our values as an institution and is in line with best practices and industry standards across higher education.

ULTRA has reached a return-to-work agreement for 9 a.m. on Wednesday but will resume negotiations with Tufts on Thursday, Whittingham said. As move for move-day operations, Tufts officials told MassLive that they do not expect the strike to have any major impact. They also said more hands were brought in to help make up for the RAs absence.

The university welcomes a first-year class of more than 1,600 students and counting every year. The overall student body sits at roughly 13,000, both undergraduate and graduate. Seven out of 10 Tufts undergraduates live on campus, according to the Universitys website.
LOCKPORT  A top city official said he didnt know the Lockport Cave and Underground Boat Ride planned to reopen until Monday morning when news outlets began calling him.

The Lockport Cave operation had remained closed since June 12, when its tour boat capsized, killing a Niagara Falls man and injuring 11 other passengers. One day later, Jason Dool, Lockports chief building inspector, deemed the attraction unsafe for occupancy.

After Lockport Cave fatality, Ortt introduces bill to fill state oversight gap Ortts bill would require that regulation of geological, man-made mechanical boat attractions on man-made waterways, tunnels and lakes in New York be under the purview of the state Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation.

Dool on Monday said he has had no recent communication with the operators of the business, which revealed Sunday that it would resume offering candlelight walking tours in the underground space. The announcement didnt say anything about the boat tours.

I had no knowledge that any of this was happening, Dool said in an interview.

He said he is waiting to see proof that the company has corrected the electrical issues he found during an inspection one day after the fatal incident.

Thomas Callahan, the attractions co-owner, did not respond to messages seeking comment Monday. An employee who answered a knock at the door of the Lockport Cave said the company couldnt talk to a reporter because of potential litigation.

The business announced Sunday on its Facebook page that it was now taking reservations for its cave walking tour.

The staff and management of the Lockport Cave would like to thank everyone for their patience and understanding during this unique and difficult period, the company said on its website.

Its not clear whether this means the City of Lockport has completed its investigation into the fatal incident.

Lockport Mayor Michelle Roman and Lockport Police Chief Steven Abbott did not answer requests for comment on Monday. Roman and Abbott have declined throughout the summer to provide updates on the status of the police-led investigation.

The fatal incident drew international attention and raised questions about who, if anyone, was responsible for oversight of the cave boat tour.

Twenty-eight passengers, all connected to the Niagara County tourism industry, and one operator were on the boat when it capsized, pitching everyone into the water.

Authorities described a chaotic scene in the darkened passageway as they worked to rescue those who couldnt get themselves to safety.

Harshad Shah, 65, was pinned under the boat and drowned before he could be saved. He was a native of India and the longtime president of the Budget Host Inn in Niagara Falls. His wife also was on board and was injured in the incident.

Who was supposed to inspect Lockport Cave boat ride involved in fatal incident? No state or county agencies were required to regulate the underground Lockport attraction where a tour boat overturned Monday, killing a Niagara Falls man and injuring 11 other passengers, officials said Wednesday.

Dool said he was called to the scene one day later by the Lockport police chief because of concerns about electrical installation in the tunnel area.

Dool previously said he found a broken conduit that left wiring exposed, including to water; areas where the wrong wiring was used; and a rusted panel box.

A sign posted June 13 on the door leading to the underground boat tour said the venue was unsafe for occupancy because of electrical hazards.

That sign was no longer on the door Monday, something that surprised Dool because, he said, only a city employee can remove it.

To my knowledge, he said, they have not corrected any of the electrical issues that were identified in the cave.

Dool said he expected to know more by Tuesday about next steps for the city and the attraction.

June 12 was not the first time a tour boat capsized in the cave. A similar incident took place in 2015, The Buffalo News previously reported, though no one was seriously injured in the earlier incident.

The News on June 16 requested records related to that earlier incident, and whether any follow-up inspection or response was made, from the state Power Authority, which oversees the Canal Corporation. The Authority has not yet provided any records.
(This article is part of a three-part series about behind-the-scenes at Tanglewood, the summer home of the Boston Symphony Orchestra.)

LENOX  When pianist Daniil Trifonov sat down to play Prokofievs Piano Concerto Number 3 with the Boston Symphony Orchestra at Tanglewood, the setup looked simple.

Three men in black suits quickly wheeled a grand piano onto the stage.

One removed a thick, black, pad covering the piano.

Another opened the gleaming black lid.

All of this took less than two minutes.

But getting a concert grand piano ready for its big moment at Tanglewood takes much longer.

And when this amazing instrument isnt being played by world-renowned pianists, its given the royal treatment.

The second Trifonov finished playing the concerto and left the stage, the stagehands covered the piano back up in its thick, black pad and whisked the instrument quickly backstage to its nearby, temperature-controlled room.

All the concert grand pianos at Tanglewood are stored in air-conditioned rooms backstage at each concert hall. The Koussevitzky Music Shed has such a room. So does Ozawa Hall and the Linde Center.

Theres even a sign inside these rooms kept at a cool 69 degrees Fahrenheit reminding everyone that something specials stored inside them.

KEEP THESE DOORS SHUT AT ALL TIMES! This room has controlled temperature and humidity.

But its not just these rooms that keep these pianos in pitch-perfect shape. An entire team of highly-skilled piano technicians at Tanglewood spends hours every day tuning and retuning these magnificent instruments.

If you dont have a good instrument, half the battle is lost, concert pianist Emanuel Ax, who has regularly performed at Tanglewood for more than 40 years, said during a recent interview. Obviously, you need a very good piano and you need it kept up to snuff  well-regulated and well tuned. So its very important to have a good tuner. Its crucial.

They (Tanglewood) usually have wonderful people who are really caring and very good, Ax added, referring to the piano technicians at Tanglewood. The important thing is they should be very caring and I think generally they are. They care a lot.

The piano is unlike any instrument in classical music.

Concert violinists have highly-prized, centuries-old instruments worth millions of dollars that they travel with around the world. The same goes for nearly every instrument in the orchestra  except the piano.

Most concert pianists dont travel with a piano. (There are a few exceptions, such as pianist Mitsuko Uchida, who reportedly brings her own piano to performances whenever possible, according to The New York Times.)

Many pianists dont know how to tune a piano either. Instead, pianists like Ax and Trifonov rely on piano technicians to keep these instruments in perfect shape.

Tuning a piano takes tremendous patience and attention to detail.

Late one recent afternoon at Tanglewood, piano technician Tom Porter methodically tuned a grand piano in the temperature-controlled piano room backstage at Ozawa Hall. Holding a tuning wrench (also sometimes called a tuning lever) in his left hand, Porter slowly turned the wrench a few millimeters while playing one note with his right hand.

He played the same note again, then turned the tuning wrench a few more millimeters.

Then he played another key and made another small turn.

The same note, another small adjustment to a tuning pin.

These pianos get played a lot by a lot of great musicians, Porter said. They require a lot of tuning.

Porter was tuning a B-sized grand piano, which is 2 feet smaller than the D-sized concert grand piano Trifonov played on stage in The Shed at Tanglewood on Opening Night.

Tuning a piano can take hours. And even after a piano has been tuned, its often not stage ready. Many pianos need to be tuned several times before they are used in concerts at Tanglewood.

Well tune it a couple of times to get it stable, Porter said.

Tanglewood piano technician Damon Groves agreed.

We spend so much time on these pianos when come in, Groves said during a recent interview. Theyre already in good shape, but theres so much to do, the mechanics are so complex.

This is Groves fourth summer tuning pianos at Tanglewood. The head piano technician at the Royal Conservatory of Music in Toronto, Groves has been professionally tuning pianos since 2008.

Pianos are mainly comprised of natural materials, wood and cloth itself, Groves said. And they change. Thats one of the things that people dont understand about instruments, or pianos in particular. Even if you have a piano, it doesnt just sit there like a piece of furniture. Its changing with temperature and humidity can change with playing... And so we do have to do all these adjustments. Over and over and over again. Everything we do on pianos is essentially temporary tuning, regulating the action, working with the hammer, strings with voicings are all temporary and its just like, repeat, repeat, repeat.

For a piano used in a concert at Tanglewood, the process starts the day before. Thats when the soloist decides which concert grand piano they want to play the next day.

Then Groves, Porter or one of the other piano technicians gets to work tuning the piano in the temperature-controlled room backstage.

The concert grand pianos are not moved from one concert hall to another at Tanglewood. Piano technician Jeremy Herrera laughs when I ask whether that happens, probably trying to imagine stagehands wheeling an 8-foot-long piano on the half-mile-long, tree-lined path between The Shed and Ozawa Hall.

Instead, the technicians work on the piano backstage at the concert venue where the piano will be played the next day. A piano used in a concert often needs to be tuned several times, especially the day before the concert, Herrera explained.

Everything is really prepped before, even before the day to kind of make sure theres no surprises or anything, Herrera said.

Herrera tuned the piano Trifonov was scheduled to play the Prokofiev Piano Concerto a few hours that day. Asked if he would need to do anything before the concert, Herrera said, I dont think Ill be going back over. As for what Herrera would do during the concert, he said, Just listen.

Very, very rarely do you have any issues at that point, Herrera added.

This is Herreras first summer as a contractor piano technician. Other summers, he was at Tanglewood as a piano technician a few times to help tune pianos mainly used during classes and rehearsals. The rest of the year, Herrera works as a piano technician at the University of Iowa School of Music at the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences in Iowa City.

Such behind-the-scenes work is common at Tanglewood for piano technicians. When theyre not tuning a concert grand, theyre tuning all the other pianos at Tanglewood. Herrera and Porter estimate there are around 73 pianos at Tanglewood this summer.

Its so busy, Groves said. Theres always work to be done on pianos. Ive never come to a piano and said, Okay, thats, thats it. Never happened. It will never happen. I kind of joke that if that happens, I can retire. Because its never going to happen.

There are so many pianos on campus (at Tanglewood) and theres so much demand, Groves added. With the environment, its a constant thing. My first day (at Tanglewood this summer) I worked 12 hours. I knew that I was going to do that.

But dont expect Groves or the other piano technicians at Tanglewood to complain about such long hours some days. Im prepared for it, Groves said. Yes, we put in long hours a lot. But a lot of the people here at Tanglewood are putting in long hours.

Thats what makes all the amazing performances possible  all the hard work from all of the people most audience members never even see on stage at Tanglewood.

(Concerts and events at Tanglewood in Lenox continue through Aug. 31. For the complete Tanglewood schedule, visit the BSO Tanglewood page on the BSOs website.)

(Other Stories In Series)

Backstage at Tanglewood: Stage Manager John Demick keeps everything running smooth
UPDATE: Randall Ricketts, 58, IDd as man killed in I-95 crash, DA says

One person is dead and at least one other driver was injured following a multi-car crash on I-95 in North Attleborough late Monday afternoon, Aug. 28, officials said.

There was a crash near Exit 7 on I-95 North around 4:15 p.m., Massachusetts State Police reported. Two vehicles had serious damage. A third vehicle was also involved, but was not still at the scene when police got there, police said.

Investigators believe that a 2006 Buick LaCrosse, driven by a 50-year-old man from Cranston, Rhode Island, was going south on I-95 when it collided with a late-model Cadillac Escalade, driven by a 61-year-old man from Providence, Rhode Island, State Police said.

The driver of the Cadillac then lost control of his vehicle and entered the median of the highway, police said.

The Cadillac hit a 2015 Jaguar XJ, driven by a 58-year-old man from Foxborough, police said. He was pronounced dead on scene. His name was not released.

Read More: Faculty member fatally shot in University of North Carolina building

The driver of the Cadillac was taken to Rhode Island Hospital with serious injuries, State Police said.

Police were told a Buick, which had front-end damage and a flat tire, was also involved. But the Buick kept driving, according to police.

The car and driver were later found in Attleboro. Police did not say if the driver had any injuries. Authorities are still trying to determine whether they were involved in the crash and left the scene, police said.

The crash shut down the entire northbound side of I-95 until shortly after 8 p.m., according to police. The investigation is ongoing.
As you travel down small stairs going underneath Bostons Old North Church, the path will be well lit. But tour guides will remind attendees, this wasnt always the case.

Nikki Stewart, Old North Illuminated executive director, said she encourages people to imagine walking down into the crypt in the 1820s with only a candle.

In a time when youre surrounded by decomposing bodies before embalming was a thing, that would be an awful experience for any of us, she said. And yet, that was the way that you could visit and commune. Very different than going to a cemetery today.

After a nine-month restoration project, which helped with the structural integrity of the tombs and the historic church, tours of the crypts have reopened at the Old North Church in Boston.

The Old North Church in Boston, known for the lantern signal that was a message arranged by Paul Revere, was built in 1723 and didnt have space for a graveyard. Nine years after it opened, the organization said, a single tomb was excavated under the sanctuary and additional tombs were added over time. Burials took place in the crypt from 1732 to 1860.

The Rev. Timothy Cutler, Old Norths first and longest-serving minister; Capt. Samuel Nicholson, the first commander of the USS Constitution; and Maj. John Pitcairn, a British major who died at the Battle of Bunker Hill, were all buried in the crypt. Overall, there are more than 1,100 bodies in the crypt.

Boston eventually banned indoor burials and burials in the crypt stopped.

However, history continues to live on under the historic church  something the restoration team worked to preserve.

Read more: Historic Old North Church in Boston restores underground crypt

Guided tours will go over burial practices of early congregants, notable people who were buried in the crypt and learn about discoveries from the recent archeological work.

The restoration project included repairing bricks, removing the wooden tomb doors and making the space accessible. The wood doors were sent off to be restored, being replaced by temporary doors. Once the original doors are restored, they were placed back on the tomb and closed.

The process for removing the doors wasnt simple  as nobody knew for sure what is on the other side.

Before removing the door, the archaeologists placed a catch cloth under the door, designed to catch anything that might fall out of the tomb when the door is removed. When MassLive visited the project in February, nothing of significance had fallen out  only some wood fragments, hardware and one wood square.

We just carefully lifted it up and leaned it against [the other caskets], so it doesnt disturb anything, digital archaeologist Nadia Kline said.

Not disturbing the tombs was a major part of the project.

Were respecting the dead. Thats really what it is. We dont want to disturb anyone. This is how their descendants wanted them to remain when they were placed in here, Jane Rousseau, a specialist in human osteology and archaeology, said. The natural corruption is one thing, but we dont want to intervene. We want to leave it the way that it is.

Inside the tombs, many of the caskets are broken  worn down over time  and the bodies have various levels of decay.

I think a lot of people think that when remains are put into a tomb, that theyre just going to stay that way forever. This is from a time period before embalming. And this is natural decay, Rousseau said. This is the ashes to ashes, so to speak.

One of the biggest factors of the decay is being near the ocean.

Were so close to the ocean, the salt just seeps in, Joe Bagley, the citys archaeologist, said, adding that this rusts the iron nails holding the coffins together.

The wood is in really good shape, but the iron rusts, and falls apart, he said. Essentially, everything holding the coffin together disappears, and it just falls apart.

What it looks like varies from tomb to tomb and even within each tomb.

We have everything from partial mummification to nothing, he said.

To not disturb the tombs, Bagley would scan his phones camera across it. After a few seconds, a 3D rendering of the inside of the tomb appears on his phone.

The rendering allows archaeologists and a restoration team to see details they might otherwise have missed without having to go inside the tomb and disturb it. They were able to see was a gold ring on a childs finger, other jewelry and clothing. On one person buried in the crypt, the team saw stockings.

I think that was the one that we all reacted to the most, said Rousseau. That really takes home that these are people and they were laid to rest here.

Although the team didnt change what had already decayed, they hope the restoration will change the pace at which it is decaying.

Its going to help stabilize what were seeing now as long as possible. And if this wasnt happening, these would degrade much further, much faster, Bagley said. In many ways, this work is really ultimately stabilizing and pausing whats happened to the tombs already.

Old North Church in Boston began work Thursday to restore the crypt under the historic church.

But not all of the tombs were opened. The wooden doors needed to be restored, which is why they were removed. However, other tombs have different types of coverings, including brick, that dont need to be removed to be preserved.

The restored bricks arent just for looks. Theyll help the structural integrity of the tombs, but its also for the integrity of the church building that sits on top of all of this as well, said Stewart.

Tickets for the tour are $10 and are offered Monday- Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 11:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Tickets can be purchased online.
Defense attorneys for a former Granby woman charged with murder in the death of her wife debated with prosecutors on a flurry of legal motions on Tuesday as the case approaches jury empanelment next week.

Cara Rintala, 56, currently out on bail and living in Rhode Island, will face a fourth trial in connection with the death of her wife, Annamarie Cochrane-Rintala, 37, in March 2010. Rintala has maintained her innocence for more than a decade.
A man is dead after his moped crashed into two cars in Everett on Friday, Aug. 25, Middlesex District Attorney Marian Ryans office said on Monday.

At around 9:10 p.m., Everett police arrived at the intersection of Broadway and Beacham Street in Everett, where the crash happened.

The moped driver, 51-year-old Joao De Pina Fernandes, was dead when police arrived.

The driver of one of the other vehicles was still in the area. In their statement, Ryans office did not specify what happened to the other car involved.

An investigation into the crash is ongoing. No charges have been filed at this time, Ryans office said.
While public housing can be one of the most affordable forms of housing for low-income people, the agencies that run them are more likely than private landlords to repeatedly evict tenants, according to a new study from Eviction Lab.

The study revealed that while residents of public and private housing are equally likely to receive eviction filings against them, serial eviction, or repeated eviction filing against the same household, is much more common among public housing authorities. Of public housing residents included in the study who had been filed against for eviction, 46.8% were filed against repeatedly at the same address, compared to 28.4% of people living in privately owned rentals.

In addition, some of the most habitual serial evictors of the housing authorities included in the study are in Massachusetts.

(Public housing authorities) are among the largest single landlords in many markets, often contributing to a large number of evictions, the authors of the study wrote. This concentration of ownership and evictionscoupled with public accountabilitymeans that interventions aimed at (public housing authorities) could be extremely effective in driving down eviction filing rates.

Read more: Crystal Morancy at odds with Fitchburg Housing Authority to get home after eviction

There are close to 3,000 public housing authorities of varying sizes currently operating in the United States, which operate more than 10% of subsidizing housing units in the country. Residents of public housing have their rent capped at 30% of their household income.

The study found that both public housing agencies and private landlords were more likely to file serial evictions against tenants in states where the eviction process is cheaper and easier, but in 21 of the 28 states studied, tenants in public housing were more likely to be targeted by the practice. In Massachusetts, 35% of public housing residents who were filed against were filed against repeatedly, compared to 22% of tenants in privately owned housing.

Residents of public housing were also more likely to experience serial eviction when they lived in developments with more Black residents, and less likely in housing authorities with fewer total units or with a large share of senior residents, according to the study.

Forty-nine public housing authorities included in the study had over 1,000 units, including six in Massachusetts: those in Boston, Lawrence, Lowell, Malden, Springfield and Worcester.

Malden Housing Authority had the highest rate of serial evictions in Massachusetts, with 54.2%, more than half, of households with eviction filings receiving repeated filings, 13th on the list of large housing authorities in the study. Lowell Housing Authority followed at 16th, with a rate of 47.1%.

The remaining large housing authorities in Massachusetts on the list had lower rates, below the state average, with 28.4% in Springfield, 25% in Lawrence, 19.3% in Worcester and 15% in Boston.

In interviews with property managers from two otherwise comparable public housing authorities in Ohio with very different serial eviction rates, the researchers found that managers at the site with the higher rate, in Cleveland, looked at eviction filing not as a means to remove unwanted tenants, but as a way to prompt them to pay late rent. They file as soon as allowed by law, but continue to work with the tenant to find a repayment plan or other way for them to stay in their unit before the eviction case turns to removal.

If the tenant can pay the rent back in full or partially, the housing authority has more incentive to keep them than let them leave with little hope of collecting arrears through the courts, the study says. However, for the tenant, whose circumstance already led them to be behind on rent, the payment agreement means they would be paying 40% of their household income until the debt was settled. With little support, this requirement leaves them vulnerable to circumstances that could lead to further arrearages and violation of the repayment agreement, thus restarting the cycle.

In contrast, at the authority with lower rates in Akron, property managers see eviction only as a last resort with tenants that they intend to remove, are much stricter with rent collection and do not offer repayment plans. If a tenant does remain in their unit following an eviction filing, and receive a second filing, they are very unlikely to be able to stay.

The researchers noted that while the Akron agency was more strict with its eviction filings, because there were so many more eviction filings in Cleveland, that housing authority still saw more filings result in removal.

The study suggests that public housing authorities be evaluated by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development on tenant stabilization and reliance on evictions, as they are not currently required to systematically record or report eviction cases. Instead, housing authorities are evaluated on occupancy levels and rent collection, incentivizing them to evict tenants who are unable to pay and replace them with tenants who can.

You can read the full study here.
A Massachusetts man and a woman have both been diagnosed with West Nile virus, the first two human cases in the Commonwealth as of 2023, the Massachusetts Department of Public Health announced Tuesday.

The woman, identified as a woman in her 70s, was exposed to the virus in another part of the country, while the man, in his 40s, was exposed in Middlesex County, an area known to be at moderate risk, officials said in a statement.

This is the first time that West Nile virus infection has been identified in Massachusetts residents this year, said Public Health Commissioner Robert Goldstein in the statement. August and September are the months when most people are exposed to West Nile virus in Massachusetts. Populations of mosquitoes that can carry and spread this virus are fairly large this year and we have seen recent increases in the number of West Nile virus-positive mosquito samples from multiple parts of the Commonwealth.

The Greater Boston area, including Middlesex, Norfolk and Suffolk counties, along with parts of Berkshire, Bristol, Hampden, Hampshire, Plymouth and Worcester counties all carry a moderate risk of human infection with West Nile virus. At this time, the risk levels will not be changed, officials added.

Read more: Town Meeting to consider leasing part of Russell school to Hilltown Health

The unofficial end of summer does not mean the threat of West Nile virus transmission from mosquitoes is over, State Epidemiologist Dr. Catherine M. Brown said in the statement.

To avoid mosquito bites, use a repellent with an EPA-registered ingredient, wear clothing to reduce exposed skin, drain standing water and repair window screens. We also encourage everyone to regularly visit DPHs mosquito-borne diseases web pages to stay informed on when and where (West Nile virus) activity is occurring.

Read more: Boston removes gender markers from marriage certificates

2022 saw eight human cases of West Nile virus infection across Massachusetts, officials said. While people of all ages are at risk, people 50 years and older are at higher risk for severe disease. Symptoms can include fever and flu-like symptoms.

The state issued a series of recommendations on how to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes. These include:
WEST SPRINGFIELD  On the doorstep of a new year and on the heels of the COVID-19 pandemic, Massachusetts Secretary of Education Patrick Tutwiler wants educators to greet each day in the Zulu spirit of Sawubona.

The traditional Zulu greeting, Tutwiler said during his comments at West Springfield High School, translates in English to the phrase I see you.

Sawubona  I see you  is much more than hello, it is deep validation of ones existence. ... There is a sincere acknowledgement of the individual for whom he, she, or they are, Tutwiler said.

On Monday, the West Springfield school department hosted a back-to-school convocation where Tutwiler told educators their continued commitment and efforts are seen. He challenged them to see students and peers for who they are in the spirit of Sawubona.

Tutwiler said the state is working to address challenges such as staffing and mental health as the educational system heals from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

In January, the Executive Office of Education, which Tutwiler directs, developed a set of organizing principles to help stabilize and transform the state of education through budget and policy initiatives that will not only meet the needs of students for the present moment but for the years ahead, he said.

We are envisioning a future beyond what existed before the pandemic, Tutwiler said.

While morale building and professional development is still important, Tutwiler hopes the spirit in the message behind the words I see you, can be used to build intentional relationships that will in turn help stabilize, heal and transform district outcomes.

Tutwiler said districts can create the conditions for young people to realize their dreams, which is a part of being an educator.

When stabilizing, healing and transforming, we are communicating that we see you, he said.

The education secretary said through the results of having daily conversations about equity, inclusion and the changing demographics of the student body, educators will play a role in establishing conditions in which all students will be able to realize their dreams.

Its important to move beyond the narrow definition of inclusion that is focused on students with disabilities and expanding it to create school cultures and experiences that acknowledge students for who they are and support them in reaching the highest level of learning, Tutwiler said.

In addition, Tutwiler shared his beliefs that he said he has held close while on his journey as an educator and principal in Boston and later as a superintendent in Lynn.

As a leader in education you must love the student, teacher and craft of teaching, Tutwiler said. That advice has been and continues to be my anchor, my center. ... It is both my foundation for reflection and motivation to keep learning, he said.

The love for the student has always been Tutwilers why, he said.

That continues in my approach as the Secretary of Education, Tutwiler said.

Superintendent of Schools Stefania Raschilla said she is aligned with the education secretary about how every child matters and needs to be seen and heard.

They (students) are all individuals and need to be given the support needed to succeed academically and social emotionally.  My end vision is to have all WSPS working in conjunction with families to form a collaborative community dedicated to empowering all learners and supporting them so they can be respectful, responsible, and productive citizens of the community and the world, Raschilla said.
Parts of the Red Line will shutter for nearly a dozen weeknights and a pair of weekends in September, and a few Orange and Green Line stops will also face more than three weeks of disruptions in downtown Boston, MBTA officials have announced.

The T rolled out its schedule of planned closures and diversions for maintenance work in September, setting sights on the Red Lines Braintree branch, where several miles of track are so deteriorated that they cannot safely support full-speed travel.

Shuttle buses will replace trains between North Quincy and Braintree Station starting around 8:45 p.m. each night from Sept. 5-7, Sept. 12-14 and Sept. 19-22.

That stretch of track will also be completely shuttered the weekend of Sept. 23 and 24.

A similar segment, from Quincy Center to Braintree, will also go offline and be replaced by shuttle buses starting around 8:45 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 8 through the end of the day on Sunday, Sept. 10.

Those closures will precede a 16-day October shutdown of Red Line service between JFK/UMass and Ashmont Station as well as the Mattapan Line, which MBTA officials announced last week.

The T said Monday that another batch of station closures will take place due to the ongoing private demolition project involving the Government Center garage.

Between Sept. 18 and Oct. 18, Orange Line trains will skip Haymarket station, while Green Line service will not run between North Station and Government Center.

Riders will be asked to walk above ground between Government Center, Haymarket and North Station for continuing Green Line service, an MBTA spokesperson said. Accessibility vans will also be available for on-demand use.

Shuttle buses will replace trains on the commuter rails Kingston, Middleborough and Greenbush Lines between South Station and Braintree on the weekends of Sept. 9-10, Sept. 23-24 and Sept. 30-Oct.1, as well as starting at 7:30 p.m. each night on Sept. 5-7, Sept. 12-14 and Sept. 19-22.

Buses will additionally replace Haverhill Line service between Ballardvale and North Station between Sept. 9 and Nov. 5, a lengthy closure during which crews plan to work on the automatic train control safety system, and Newburyport/Rockport Line service between Swampscott and North Station on Sept. 9-10.

More information about the closures is available online.
Dear Annie: My mother-in-law has been diagnosed with cervical cancer back in our home country. My husband planned to pay all the expenses for her care, including treatments, hospital visits and food. His three older sisters live near his mom (one lives with his mom).

He said his sisters are poorer than we are when comparing our hourly wages. I said the expenses should be divided by all the children  or at least the richest sister who owns a house and a tourist van. This has led to a major argument between my husband and me. He said that I am being selfish and cruel and that if it were my parents with cancer, he would sell our house to help them.

The sisters said the package for treatment was about $4,600. Then they rounded it up to $5,000, plus four injections afterward for an add of $400.

I told my husband to ask for proof of the receipts from all the bills. With the receipts, we would pay all the costs for mother-in-law treatments and hospital visits. Without receipts, we would pay $4,800, which is more than the treatment package cost of $4,600.

My husband said he would never ask for the receipts, since they are his siblings. I reminded him a few times about asking for receipts while we were on FaceTime with his family. He didnt ask. Then he would tell me he forgot to ask.

I told him he could come back home to take care of his mom and pay by himself, but he wouldnt want to go because he is worried about our monthly mortgage and our two daughters (4 and 17 years old). I told him Im able to take care of our monthly mortgage, bills and our children. We have been married for 19 years.

Am I overreacting or being selfish for wanting to know where our money is going to?

 Confused Wife in Oregon

Dear Confused Wife in Oregon: First off, I am sorry about your mother-in-laws diagnosis. That is hard for everyone involved, and your husband is kind to want to care for his mom. I think asking for receipts is a little petty, but if it will make you feel better about supporting his mom, then you can ask. But at the end of the day, I would look at your husband as a kind, generous and thoughtful son, which Im sure translates into the type of husband and father he is. Consider yourself lucky to be with such a kind man.

How Can I Forgive My Cheating Partner? is out now! Annie Lanes second anthology  featuring favorite columns on marriage, infidelity, communication and reconciliation  is available as a paperback and e-book. Visit http://www.creatorspublishing.com for more information. Send your questions for Annie Lane to dearannie@creators.com.

COPYRIGHT 2023 CREATORS.COM
A man who is seeking asylum in the United States is being held in the Erie County Holding Center following his arrest in connection with $12,000 in damage to a Cheektowaga restaurant.

Cheektowaga police responded to the Luna Lounge on Dingens Street about 3:20 a.m. Saturday for a disturbance, and found the front windows and doors damaged, according to a police news release.

Gustave Diaz Carvajal, 27, and an unidentified individual threw rocks at the building, and he is accused of breaking three windows and three doors, causing $12,000 in damage to the building, according to police and Erie County District Attorney John J. Flynn.

Diaz Carvajal, of Venezuela, also is accused of kicking and punching an employee of the lounge who confronted him, injuring the employees knee, according to Flynn.

He is charged with second-degree criminal mischief, third-degree assault and second-degree harassment, and is being held on $50,000 bail, according to Cheektowaga police and the district attorney.

Asylum-seeker third in Buffalo region arrested this month An asylum-seeker charged Sunday with attempted assault after an altercation in Amherst is the third asylee to be arrested this month.

Diaz Carvajal also is accused of shoplifting three pairs of headphones, valued at about $225, from a department store at Walden Galleria on Aug. 19. He allegedly put the headphones in his backpack and left without paying, according to Flynn. The stores loss prevention officers found headphones as well as a razor knife and pliers inside his backpack.

Cheektowaga police charged him with petit larceny and possession of burglar tools, according to Flynn.

Several others seeking asylum have been charged with crimes in Erie County this month, causing Erie County Executive Mark Poloncarz to place a pause on the acceptance of any new asylum-seekers from New York City to Erie County. The incidents also prompted Poloncarzs Republican opponent for county executive, Chrissy Casilio, to hold a Migrant Crisis Community Forum Tuesday night at Potts Banquet Hall in Cheektowaga.

An asylee was charged Sunday with attempted assault, menacing and criminal possession of a weapon after being accused of possessing a roofing nail during an altercation in an Amherst hotel.

Cheektowaga police on Aug. 11 charged a man from the Democratic Republic of Congo with sexual abuse and unlawful imprisonment of a woman at a Dingens Street hotel.

In a separate case, an asylum-seeker from Venezuela is accused of raping a woman in a hotel room on Genesee Street in Cheektowaga on Aug. 2.
A well-documented research finding is now a centerpiece of Massachusetts school life: Meals for students are free.

Education researchers long ago established that hungry students perform less well than others. That spurred governments to underwrite the costs of food for students who qualify by income.

But this year, free meals are universal for students in Massachusetts, as they have already been in seven other states. This month, Gov. Maura Healey signed a state budget that includes $172 million to make this happen in public schools from kindergarten through grade 12.

This is money well spent. By removing the stigma of having to qualify for a free meal, Massachusetts helps ensure young people take their seats in classrooms as ready as possible to learn.

And it goes beyond the presence of distracting hunger pains. Poor nutrition among schoolchildren is associated with bad health, uneven learning habits, absenteeism and, not surprisingly, behavior issues.

Its been known for years that hungry students are unable to concentrate as much as they should on their classwork. They dont have as much motivation to absorb lessons as students who get enough to eat. Researchers at the University of Texas at San Antonio found that hungry students are unengaged students.

We can all grasp why.

The No Kid Hungry nonprofit says not getting enough to eat affects a students mood, memory and motor skills. Young people who havent had enough to eat receive lower test scores and face trouble expanding their vocabularies.

Then along came the pandemic. For months, students were cut off from these sources of food, though many school districts ramped up efforts to deliver meals to community centers. The pandemic also deepened public understanding about the connection between proper nutrition and learning.

Some districts in the Pioneer Valley beat the state to this good new policy. Schools in Chicopee, Springfield and West Springfield had already made lunches widely free. Chicopee, for its part, serves two meals on school days to 5,000 children, according to its director of food service, Melanie Wilk. Thats enabled the citys program to reach 80% of students; Wilk believes the new policy will help it feed all students.

Schools exist to feed the minds of the next generations.

Actual food, we now know, matters too.
Theres been a rash of late-summer gun violence in Massachusetts but in the Legislature the situation around proposed gun law reforms hasnt changed and Democrats, who have been away from Beacon Hill since late July, remain stuck in a procedural stalemate.

Eight people were shot near an ongoing Caribbean Carnival festival in Boston on Saturday, followed by shootings in Worcester on Sunday, also in the vicinity of a Carnival celebration.

Gov. Maura Healey said Monday that she was heartbroken by those events along with a devastating spike in violence this summer in Springfield.

My thoughts are with the victims, their families and the entire communities that have been impacted by these senseless shootings, the governor said in a statement issued while she was in Aspen, Colorado Monday for political meetings with Democratic governors.

Read More: Several arrests made in connection with shooting at Boston Caribbean Carnival

Healey called for collaboration with local authorities on a coordinated approach to get illegal guns off the streets and to address the root causes of violence.

The scope of this tragedy is mitigated only by the fact that no one was killed, Suffolk County District Attorney Kevin Hayden said of the Boston shooting on Saturday. But we see, once again, the consequences of too many illegal guns in the hands of too many people willing to use them, with zero regard for anyone in the path of their bullets. This happened against the backdrop of a city celebration, but also against the backdrop of a nation that cannot fashion a rational policy on reducing gun violence.

At the state capitol, House Democrats this summer were primed a 140-page gun reform package for passage before the traditional August vacation period. But Rep. Michael Days omnibus bill, filed June 26, has yet to even receive a bill number, much less a public hearing, after it became jammed in a disagreement between House and Senate leaders over which committee should vet the bill.

The House attempted in June to send the bill to the Judiciary Committee, which Day co-chairs, before the Senate voted two weeks later to reroute it to the Public Safety Committee. The docket has not come back to the floor since then, and it remains in limbo without a resolution to the disagreeing votes.

After the contents of the bill generated controversy both in and outside of the State House, House Speaker Ronald Mariano on July 24 pressed pause to give representatives more time to evaluate all of the proposals made and continue to speak with their constituents and provide feedback.

House leadership will continue to work on the bill until it is ready for debate this Fall, Mariano wrote in an email to representatives, which was silent on how the Legislature might incorporate public feedback before moving on a bill.

Day pointed Monday to recent examples of gun violence and reiterated the autumnal timeline.

The ongoing spate of gun violence plaguing our state, which continues to claim lives and cause irreparable harm to our neighborhoods, underscores the need to act urgently on gun safety legislation that enhances law enforcements ability to track and trace stolen, missing and illegal firearms, and expands our critical violence prevention efforts. The House is committed to modernizing our firearm safety laws and sending legislation over to the Senate this fall, the Stoneham Democrat said in a statement to the News Service.

On the Senate side of the building, Majority Leader Cynthia Stone Creem reported Monday that she had already held 10 or 15 private meetings with senators, activists, and other stakeholders as the Senate prepares to draft a gun-related bill of its own.

Creem told the News Service that she had been tasked by Senate President Karen Spilka with conducting the fact-finding meetings with whoever is interested, to ... just talk about ideas and things that might be in a bill that the Senate would expect to do in the fall or at least in the session.

I dont have a timeline right now. Even though its [the summer recess], my staff and I have been meeting virtually with many of my colleagues just to see where members of the Senate are with the issues, Creem said. She added that she assumed Senate action on a firearms bill would follow House passage of a bill on the same topic.

The Newton Democrat said were going to meet, were meeting with the gun owners, were meeting with chiefs of police, were meeting with colleagues to find areas of consensus.

Outside of such private meetings, interested citizens or lobbyists have found little official forum to offer their feedback on Days omnibus bill, or on 47 other gun-related bills sitting in the Joint Committee on Public Safety.

Co-chair Sen. Walter Timiltys office confirmed Monday that no hearings had yet been scheduled on those proposals.

We continue to look forward to collaborating with the House chairman [Rep. Carlos Gonzalez] on coordinating a hearing in the future for the 47 gun-related matters that are already before the committee, chief of staff Donald Siriani said.

Jim Wallace, longtime executive director of the Gun Owners Action League (GOAL), said he felt it was incredibly important for the public to have a say on Days 140-page bill, which he called the greatest attack on civil rights from a Massachusetts political leader in modern history.

And also for experts to actually have a say, for a change. Because we havent really been part of this process, Wallace added.

Meantime, the calendar for a gun reforms debate is kind of in flux, Wallace said.

So you know the bill that Chairman Day released, that piece of garbage of a bill, never made it to a committee, he said. So I mean everythings kind of up in the air, because now the Senate is saying theyre going to do their own thing, and theyre forming a working group as we speak to do that. So whatever their timeline is, who knows?

Massachusetts political leaders often point to the states firearm laws as being among the strictest in the country, but also now in need of adjustments in the wake of the U.S. Supreme Courts Bruen decision of 2022. Day said in June that his bill would also address gaps in our criminal laws.

The licensing laws that we have on the books work, right? Weve got the lowest rate of gun deaths in the continental U.S. of all gun deaths, Day said at the time he filed his bill. The rate of gun deaths is still increasing, as they are nationwide, and Massachusetts isnt immune to that.

Increasing focus has been placed on so-called ghost guns, which according to the U.S. Department of Justice are often assembled from kits, do not contain serial numbers, and are sold without background checks, making them difficult to trace and easy to acquire by criminals.

Last weekends violence at the Boston Caribbean festival allegedly featured a ghost gun with an extended magazine capable of holding 31 rounds, which led to a 17-year-old boy being charged with illegal possession of a machine gun, the Boston Globe reported Monday. Another 30-year-old suspect was charged with machine gun possession for allegedly carrying a Glock pistol modified with a sear switch that allows for continuous firing.

Read More: 2 people injured in shooting at Worcester Caribbean American Carnival Sunday

In Springfield, where Rep. Bud Williams is askingfor a greater presence from State Police and federal law enforcement agencies, Police Superintendent Cheryl Clapprood said this month that there are more fully automatic firearms and ghost guns than ever before.

And Springfield Mayor Domenic Sarno said the recent targeted criminal activity involving illegal guns has involved [c]riminal suspects that often times have prior arrests and pending charges, most of the time involving illegal and ghost guns.

Days bill would require serialization and registration of both firearm barrels and receivers in an effort to combat the homemade weapons. On the Senate side, Creem has filed her own ghost gun bill, which remains in the stack of legislation in the Public Safety Committee that has yet to receive a public hearing.

Wallace said the gun owners organization supported a bill during the last legislative session that was also aimed at ghost guns.

It doesnt touch our people at all. It just hammers anybody whos unlawfully dealing or manufacturing or any of that kind of stuff, he said. So if you really want to go after the criminal use of whatever, heres our bill. Doesnt touch our people. Whats the problem? And we gave them that language. They didnt even consider it.

Among other provisions, the Day package would also set up an enhanced tracing system to track firearms used in crimes, impose a live firearm training requirement for people seeking a license to carry, step up requirements for reporting lost, stolen and surrendered firearms, and prohibit the carrying of firearms in schools, polling places, government buildings and into private property without the permission of the owner, according to a summary from the chairmans office.
The four candidates vying to replace former state Sen. Anne Gobi, D-Worcester, have until 5 p.m. on Tuesday to submit their nomination papers to local clerks.

Local registrars or election commissioners have until Friday to certify those papers, ahead of the Sept. 5 deadline for candidates to get their paperwork to the state elections divisions, State House News Service reported.

Two Republicans, state Rep. Peter Durant of, Spencer, and Bruce Chester, of Gardner, along with Democratic state Rep. Jonathan Zlotnik, also of Gardner, and Libertarian James Holmes, also of Spencer, all are running for the Worcester and Hampshire-based seat that Gobi held from 2015 until her resignation on June 4.

Gobi now serves as director of the rural affairs in the Executive Office of Economic Development in the Healey administration.

Voters will cast ballots in a special primary election on Oct. 10, followed by the general election on Nov. 7, State House News Service reported.

You can find more information about the special election calendar here.
A judge on Monday set a March 4, 2024, trial date for Donald Trump in the federal case in Washington charging the former president with trying to overturn the results of the 2020 election, rejecting a defense request to push back the case by years.

U.S. District Judge Tanya Chutkan rebuffed claims by Trumps attorneys that an April 2026 trial date was necessary to account for the huge volume of evidence they say they are reviewing and to prepare for what they contend is a novel and unprecedented prosecution. But she agreed to postpone the trial slightly beyond the January 2024 date proposed by special counsel Jack Smiths prosecution team.

The public has a right to a prompt and efficient resolution of this matter, Chutkan said.

If the current date holds, it would represent a setback to Trumps efforts to push the case back until well after the 2024 presidential election, a contest in which hes the early front-runner for the Republican nomination.

The March 2024 date would also ensure a blockbuster trial in the nations capital in the heat of the GOP presidential nominating calendar, forcing Trump to juggle campaign and courtroom appearances and coming the day before Super Tuesday  a crucial voting day when more than a dozen states will hold primaries and when the largest number of delegates are up for grabs.

I want to note here that setting a trial date does not depend and should not depend on the defendants personal or professional obligations, Chutkan said.

Chutkan has so far appeared not only cool to Trumps efforts to delay the case but also concerned by social media comments hes made outside court. This month, she warned Trumps legal team that there were limits on what he can say publicly about evidence in the investigation. She also reiterated her intention Monday for Trump to be treated with no more or less deference than any defendant would be treated.

The Washington case is one of four prosecutions Trump is facing. A March 4 trial would take place just weeks before a scheduled New York trial in a case charging him in connection with a hush money payment to a porn actress. Meanwhile in Atlanta on Monday, where Trump and 18 others were charged with trying to overturn the 2020 election in Georgia, former White House chief of staff Mark Meadows was arguing to try to get the charges against him transferred from state court to federal court.

The setting of the trial date came despite strong objections from Trump lawyer John Lauro. He said defense lawyers had received an enormous trove of records from Smiths team  a prosecutor put the total at more than 12 million pages and files  and that the case concerned novel legal issues that would require significant time to sort out.

This is one of the most unique cases from a legal perspective ever brought in the history of the United States. Ever, Lauro said, calling it an enormous, overwhelming task to review such a gargantuan amount of evidence.

Prosecutor Molly Gaston countered that the public had an exceedingly strong interest in moving the case forward to trial and said that the crux of the evidence has long been well known to the defense. Trump, she noted, is accused of attempting to overturn an election and disenfranchise millions.

There is an incredibly strong public interest in a jurys full consideration of those claims in open court, Gaston said.

Trump, a Republican, was charged this month in a four-count indictment with scheming to undo his loss to Democrat Joe Biden in the 2020 election.

Smiths team has brought a separate federal case accusing him of illegally retaining classified documents at his Palm Beach, Florida, property, Mar-a-Lago, and refusing to give them back. That case is currently set for trial next May 20.

Trump also faces state cases in New York and Georgia. Manhattan prosecutors have charged him with falsifying business records in the connection with a hush money payment to the porn actress who has said she had an extramarital affair with Trump. Prosecutors in Fulton County, Georgia, have charged Trump and the 18 others in a racketeering conspiracy aimed at undoing that states 2020 election.

A spokesperson for New Yorks state court system, Lucian Chalfen, said Chutkan spoke Thursday with the judge in Trumps Manhattan criminal case, Juan Manuel Merchan, about their respective trials ahead. Chalfen said no decision has been made regarding postponing or rescheduling the Manhattan trial, which is to begin March 25, 2024.

Trump surrendered Thursday in the Georgia case, posing with a scowl for the first mug shot in American history of a former U.S. president. He has claimed the investigations of him are politically motivated and an attempt to damage his chances of winning back the White House.
For over two-and-a-half months, kids have been enjoying time away from the demands of school, but that all changes later this week when Westfields schools open on Wednesday, and schools open Thursday in the Gateway and Southwick-Tolland-Granville districts.

In a perfect world, those students would be keeping their minds sharp through reading and self-study programs in between typical summer recreational activities.

The reality is most dont.

But dont fret just yet. Summer learning loss is a real thing, but various studies differ on just how much  and most found it depends on the individual student. With school only a couple of days away, theres not much a student or parents could do to make up for nearly three months of no school. But teachers still have some last-minute tips for parents to ease the transition back to full-time learning.

The first bit of advice from Kristen Biancuzzo, an English teacher at Westfield High School: talk to your kids.

Engage in conversations with your children about what they are looking forward to about the new school year and also what are their concerns, fears, or worries, Biancuzzo said.

And during that conversation, pay attention to what theyre saying.

Listen to what the children are saying  sometimes they just need to voice their concerns.

Linda Hyjek, a second-grade teacher at Littleville Elementary School in Huntington, echoed Biancuzzo, but said that talking and listening to your children is especially important when they are entering first, second, or third grade.

Theres lots of anxiety with those children, but theyre also excited, Hyjek said, adding that shes coined a word for it  nercited.

Hyjeck also said that parents need to start limiting time spent on a computer or handheld device playing video games.

They really need to start weaning them off of it, she said.

Biancuzzo suggested getting returning students on a schedule, like going to bed at a reasonable hour, because most will be getting up earlier to start school.

Hyjek said creating that kind of routine is important, even suggesting that having family meals together can help provide that routine.

She also said students must be reminded to have an open and positive attitude.

Tell them they can look forward to making new friendships, Hyjek said.

On the same subject, Biancuzzo said parents should remind their children of the joy of learning and [that] new adventures are in front of them.

Grasp the moment and enjoy, Biancuzzo said.

She also said that every teacher knows nearly all students might complain about returning to school, most look forward to starting.

We are all looking forward to seeing each other again - staff and students have built relationships with students and we all look forward to working together again this school year, Biancuzzo said.

Hyjek said starting school means a new group of students means a new beginning and even a new sense of community.

Biancuzzo said all students should bring their greatest item, which is their interest and willingness to learn something new, review something from the past, and to embrace the experience.

Hyjek agreed adding something else students can bring to class.

Their humor. It is about having fun and learning, she said.

Biancuzzo summed it up.

These years go by so fast that before you know it we are in May sitting at your graduation  get involved in school, do your best, and remember you are not alone in this  we are all nervous and excited by the first day of school.
A few weeks before Cynthia Webbs body was found burned beyond recognition in her car in a Worcester cemetery and Steven Foley was charged with murder in her death, Foley offered cocaine to another exotic dancer at the club where Webb worked, the dancer testified Monday.

Marlene Neitlich testified on the first day of Foleys murder trial Monday in Worcester Superior Court, that she worked at the club in 2017 alongside Webb, who wasnt a close friend but the two would small talk.

One day, maybe two to four weeks before Webbs death, Neitlich said Foley came into the Webster club Marios Showplace, and Neitlich talked with him and gave him a private dance.

He offered me coke when I was dancing for him, Neitlich said, clarifying she meant cocaine. She declined.

Cocaine factored into attorneys opening statements earlier in the day, with the prosecution telling the jury their evidence would show Foley gave cocaine to Webb, while the defense indicated drugs  cocaine included  could have been the cause of Webbs death.

Webbs body was found the morning of Dec. 12, 2017 burning in Hope Cemetery. Foley was originally charged with malicious damage to a motor vehicle, and later with murder.

Defense attorney Sarah Hamilton asked Neitlich whether she felt Foley pressured her to use drugs or became angry when she refused. Neitlich said he didnt appear to be upset by her refusal.

She said on Dec. 11, the last day Webb was seen alive, she saw Foley talking with Webb at the club after her shift ended, which surprised her, because Webb was usually one of the first to leave after her shift was over.

Worcester Police Detective Angel Arce testified regarding surveillance video from Marios, that he said shows Foley and Webb in a private dance area, after which Foley leaves, Webb goes to the dressing room then leaves for her vehicle.

Other police officers testified regarding surveillance video that they said shows Foley and Webb meeting at the Lamplighter club in Worcester, then proceeding to a gas station with Foley driving and filling up with gas.

The first witness of the day, David Layman, a Department of Public Works employee assigned to Hope Cemetery, said the morning of Dec. 12, he was clearing leaves at the cemetery when he saw a black cloud of smoke, and discovered it was coming from a red Buick which appeared to be on fire from the inside, with none of the outside burning.

Worcester Fire Department Lt. Michael McTigue testified that when he responded to the scene he saw everything but the cars engine area burning, which he found unusual.

Typically, fires would start in there. It was unusual that there was fire showing everywhere but the engine block.

Firefighters emptied nearly an entire 500-gallon tank of water, which failed to put the fire out, which McTigue also found unusual. He said the department switched to a foam commonly used for gasoline fires, which brought the blaze under control.

Then he made the grisly discovery  a body later identified as Webbs. McTigue testified he called the police.

Officer Michael Escobar testified that he had been heading home from his shift when he noticed black smoke from the cemetery, and as he walked he saw a male in dark-colored pants, a winter coat and a dark-colored hat leaving the cemetery.

He didnt stop the person, but testified that after being shown other surveillance video, he recognized Foley as the person he had seen leaving the cemetery.

Another officer, Ryan Maher, testified that after reviewing surveillance footage from multiple nearby businesses, he found footage of Webbs vehicle traveling the morning of Dec. 12 toward the cemetery, and an individual walking back from the cemetery into Worcester.

The final witness of the day, Richard Breault, testified he was driving a cab in the early-morning hours of Dec. 12, 2017, when he was called to pick up a passenger from Northborough to drive him to the KasBar on Southwest Cutoff in Worcester.

That passenger, who he described as white with close-cropped gray hair, then informed Breault that he wanted to be dropped off at the nearby Lamplighter.

Breault testified he drove the man to the club, and that during the ride he noticed the man smelled like soap, as if he had just showered. He also said the man made a comment that women are no good. All they want is your money.

He said the man seemed nervous about police when Breault considered running a light that had been red for a long time and wasnt changing. He said the man also told him he had been drunk the night before and left his vehicle there.

Foleys trial resumes Tuesday morning.
UMass Memorial Medical Center failed miserably in its plan to maintain access to maternal care after the proposed closure of a Leominster birthing center, the citys mayor contended Tuesday in a plea for state regulators to take a more forceful approach.

Leominster Mayor Dean Mazzarella asked the Department of Public Health, where officials have said they do not have the authority to force a facility to remain open, to reject UMass Memorials controversial plan for mitigating patient impacts from the shutdown.

Because DPH deemed the Leominster maternity ward an essential service, the health care system was required to submit a plan outlining how patients could continue to access services without the facility.

Mazzarella said the 17-page document UMass Memorial produced confirm[s] what we in North Worcester County already knew -- that very little thought and planning went in to this decision that effects [sic] the lives of the most vulnerable in our region.

The regulations dont call for a plan to submit a plan. The regulations call for a comprehensive plan on how expectant mothers are going to access services from prenatal through postpartum care in our region, Mazzarella said in a statement. The Hospital failed miserably at the task.

We hope the Department of Public Health will stand behind their regulations and reject this plan, he added.

Hospital officials proposed closing the maternity inpatient unit effective Sept. 22, 2023. They have pointed to staffing shortages as a major factor behind their decision, warning that financial support alone is not enough to keep the site open given current patient demand.

The hospital saw an average of two births per day in 2017, and that has since dropped to 1.3 births per day on average through most of fiscal year 2023, UMass Memorial wrote in its closure plan.

UMass Memorial pointed to four other hospitals in the area -- UMass Memorials primary Worcester campus, Saint Vincent Hospital in Worcester, Heywood Hospital in Gardner, and Emerson Hospital in Concord -- that are equipped to absorb patients from the Leominster facility.

Read More: Maternal mortality on the rise as UMass plans Leominster birth ward closure

Operators of the HealthAlliance-Clinton facility in Leominster said they plan to contract with the Montachusett Regional Transit Authority to provide non-emergency medical transportation to Worcester for birthing people identified with transportation barriers. To illustrate the circumstances that patients will face, the closure plan listed miles and estimated travel times from different parts of the region to the four alternate sites, based on data from mapquest.com.

I was truly shocked to see the Hospitals lack of effort, Mazzarella said. Using MapQuest.com to determine drive times instead of real time traffic data is just one example of the lack of importance the Hospital places on this process.

Elected officials, organized labor and some community groups have been railing against the proposed closure, arguing that it will impose undue burdens on patients and force them to travel significant distances for maternal health care.

DPH on Aug. 7 concluded that the facilitys services are in fact necessary for preserving access and health status within the hospitals service area.

However, the departments options might be limited. DPH can send written comments back to UMass Memorial within 10 days of receiving the plan, which was dated Aug. 22, but the department itself says it does not have the authority to force a hospital to keep a service open.

Opponents of the proposed closure continue to urge action by the Healey administration despite DPHs legal limitations.

We urge the Governor and the DPH to use their power to stop this closure, as the only alternative or plan that will protect these families is not to allow this closure to take place. The current plan proposed by UMASS Memorial Health Alliance does not align with the States goal to ensure greater equity in the delivery of maternal child services for all, said Eladia Romero, co-chair of Community United to Save OUR Birthing Center, in a statement. Due to the proposed date of closure, September 23, 2023, we are hopeful that the Governor will act swiftly to protect all pregnant women and babies in our community.

Lawmakers, particularly those from central Massachusetts, have been pushing for legislation that would give DPH new regulatory teeth. One bill would allow DPH to place hospitals or free-standing clinics set to close into state receivership. Another proposal (H 1175 / S 736) would require a hospital to provide notice of a planned closure at least one year in advance and empower the attorney general to seek an injunction to keep an essential service in place for that full year.

The Health Care Financing Committee heard testimony in June on the latter measure but has not taken action on it since then. Many lawmakers have been on a vacation break since the start of August, and legislative leaders have not signaled when they plan to return to formal business.
Worcester Mayor Joseph Petty called for healing after a shooting on Sunday near the Worcester Caribbean American Carnival left two bystanders injured and hospitalized.

On Sunday, gunfire struck two bystanders outside Institute Park on Boynton Street near the intersection with Salisbury Street. A 15-year-old and a 23-year-old were taken to the hospital with injuries not deemed to be life-threatening. Police believe a dispute led to the shooting.

Read more: Worcester Caribbean American Carnival joyful celebration of culture prior to nearby shooting

My thoughts and prayers go out to the victims and all those affected by the incident at todays Worcester Caribbean American Carnival, Petty said in a Facebook post Sunday. We stand united in offering our support during this difficult time... The violence that took place today has left a scar on our community, and we must come together to heal, and to ensure that such incidents never happen again.

Petty praised the tapestry of cultures that is Worcester, a vibrant mosaic that enriches our citys fabric. The festival held over the weekend, like others, allow us to showcase our traditions, share our stories, and come together as one, transcending barriers and promoting understanding, he said.

They are a testament to the richness of our shared human experience and the countless ways in which we can find common ground, his post read. ... As we reflect, let us recognize the resilience that defines us. We will not let fear or violence tarnish the spirit of togetherness that our festivals represent. Instead, we will stand strong, united in our commitment to fostering a community that celebrates its differences and finds strength in its diversity.

Read more: 2 people injured in shooting at Worcester Caribbean American Carnival Sunday

Worcester Caribbean American Carnival Association President Jennifer Gaskin spoke with MassLive on Monday and said that while she and her fellow organizers were disappointed and disheartened and saddened by the way that we had to end the event, the event brought the community together in celebration.

And we just wish that it could have concluded on a better note, but we will continue to work with the city and our community to address what occurred and hopefully put measures in place to better support the community to prevent future acts of violence, Gaskin said.

The shooting happened not far from Worcester Polytechnic Institute. Director of Public Relations Colleen Bamford Wamback said in an emailed statement that no students  who went back to school last week  staff or faculty were involved in the shooting.

While this situation did not take place on our campus, our hearts do go out to those who were injured or otherwise impacted, the statement concluded.

Worcester police continue to investigate the shooting. No new information regarding the victims or any potential suspects were available.
SPEAKING at a funeral in St Marys Church, Ballinrobe, priest Fr Michael Gormally has said that mobile phones are destroying family life.

Fr Gormally made his remarks during the funeral Mass of the late Tony Walkin, which was attended by hundreds of people.

The long-serving priest has retired due to health reasons and is being replaced in Ballinrobe parish by Fr Denis Carney, who is moving from Balla and Mayo Abbey.

Fr Gormally served two stints as Parish Priest in Ballinrobe, which were interrupted by a spell in Achill.

During a recent homily, Fr Gormally recalled how Tony Walkin would have phones switched off while visitors called to his home. When they come into the house the phones are switched off. That is a must, said Fr Gormally, quoting Mr Walkin. And we have a beautiful time together and wed talk and we get to know one another because the phones are off, he says. Them damn phones should never have been invented.

Fr Gormally continued: Im inclined to agree with him.

They have destroyed family life, they have destroyed all kinds of life because we miss wonderful opportunities to listen to stories and problems, and all kinds of stuff that we are too busy being onto the world, being onto something. And at the end of the day, were onto nothing and were neglecting what we should be looking after. Tony had this perspective right.

Speaking before Fr Gormallys homily, Fr Denis Carney extended his sympathies to the Walkin family on the passing of Tony Walkin and wished Fr Gormally well in his retirement.

Due to health reasons, he has had to retire a number of years before his time, but I know he will be using the time well and support all good causes and various works, said Fr Carney.

Addressing parishioners, Fr Carney said: It will take a while for ye to get to know me and me to get to know you, but please God well work well together. The priests that have worked in this area have always been happy in it.
THE students who received their Leaving Cert results all across Mayo on Friday morning overcame unprecedented challenges according to a Belmullet school principal. Edmund Holmes, from Our Ladys Secondary School said years of hard work, resilience and dedication paid off when results were revealed online at 10am.

When we consider what our students here in Our Ladys and students across the country faced during the pandemic, and not having benefited from experiencing the junior cert exams, were especially delighted for them and their parents, Holmes stated.

Those words were echoed all across the county with Michael Rabbette from Rice College saying the results achieved by his students were exemplary.

The outstanding grades achieved by this group of young men were really exceptional and they deserve great credit for their efforts.

These students had to overcome some major obstacles including the cancelation of their junior cert exam due to the Covid pandemic and the extended period of online classes that followed. However they remained focused on the task in hand and worked consistently throughout as is evident from their exemplary results.

These young men have displayed huge potential and great determination in their achievements to date and I have no doubt they will go on to do great things in the future. We wish them every success in whatever they decide to do in the months and years ahead.

St Gerald's College students Al-Mahi Tanzem (625 points), Patrick Murray (725 points), Mark Ward (625 points) and John Mac Monagle (725 points) pictured with Principal Shaun Burke and Vice Principal Declan Askin

Impressive results

In St Geralds College, Castlebar there were scenes of great delight when four students emerged with particularly impressive results.

Al-Mahi Tanzem and Mark Ward achieved 625 points while Patrick Murray and former Mayo minor full-back John MacMaonagle attained 725. School principal, Shaun Burke, congratulated all students across the Leaving Cert and LCA programs and wished them well in the future.

In Belmullet, there was great delight when the students gathered in Our Ladys to celebrate their achievements together.

All their hard work and dedication over the past two years certainly paid off, Mr Holmes explained. Almost 20 percent of the group here in Our Ladys achieved over 500 points and over 60% achieved over 400 points which is way above the national average. The Leaving Cert Applied students also excelled well beyond the national trend in their courses with 66 percent of students gaining distinction grades, he added.

The above-average grades were also obvious in Rice College according to Mr Rabbette.

Over a quarter of the class received more than 500 points, while three distinctions in LCA and an exceptional seven H1s were awarded to our students on Friday. Overall the results were excellent and we hope all navigate a successful and rewarding future, it has been a pleasure working with such fine young men.

Resilience

The Irish Second-Level Students Union (ISSU) agreed with the Mayo principals and said the resilience shown by the class of 2023 was hugely impressive.

Shari Irfan, Uachtaran of the ISSU said: The achievements of Leaving Certificate students was testament to their dedication and hard work and we have no doubt that they will continue to make positive contributions to our society. As we move forward, let us remember that these results are not just a reflection of academic excellence but also of their growth as individuals.

Heather Doyle, ISSU Education Officer said: The stressful journey of the leaving cert is finally coming to a close and massive congratulations for coming this far. It has been a particularly unique second-level experience with the Covid-19 pandemic.

Geraldine OBrien of the Association of Secondary Teachers of Ireland (ASTI) also congratulated all students receiving their Leaving Cert results.

Today is a day to celebrate the beginning of the next phase of your lives, said Ms OBrien. The knowledge, skills and experience you have gained as a result of progressing from first year through to the Leaving Cert will serve you in many ways as you pursue your goals as a young adult.
A man seeking asylum in the U.S. was charged Sunday with attempted assault and accused of using a roofing nail during an altercation in an Amherst hotel.

It was the third arrest in Erie County of a man seeking asylum from among the approximately 600 people sent to the county from New York City.

Amherst police were called to the Red Roof Inn on Flint Road about 6:25 p.m. Sunday for a report of a fight, possibly involving a knife.

Restraining order prevents NYC from sending more asylum-seekers to Cheektowaga A judge has granted the Town of Cheektowaga a temporary restraining order to block New York City and government contractor DocGo from sending any more asylum-seekers to Cheektowaga hotels.

Officers determined a knife had not been used in the altercation, police said Monday in a news release.

Police said they charged Daniel Narvaez-Velasqu, 35, who is residing at the hotel, with attempted assault, menacing and criminal possession of a weapon.

Capt. Christopher Meyer said Narvaez-Velasqu is seeking asylum in the U.S and was released on an appearance ticket.

The other person involved in the altercation was a local resident who was at the hotel and was uninjured, Meyer said in an email.

Cheektowaga police on Aug. 11 charged a man from the Democratic Republic of Congo with sex abuse and unlawful imprisonment of a woman at a Dingens Street hotel. He is accused of attacking an employee of DocGo, a company providing services to asylum-seekers.

In another separate case, an asylum-seeker from Venezuela was charged Aug. 2 with raping a woman in a hotel room on Genesee Street in Cheektowaga.

More than 200 migrants who had been residing in the Dingens Street hotel have been moved to Amherst.
Mayo volunteers from Children in Hospital Ireland (CIH Ireland) are looking for volunteers to dedicate two hours a week to play with children in Mayo University Hospital.

With almost 300 volunteers across 14 hospitals in Ireland, CIH Ireland creates play opportunities and eases the experience of hospitalisation for children and their families. CIH Ireland also provides information and advocates on behalf of all children and their families to ensure they have access to the resources and supports they need before, during and after hospitalisation.

Volunteers must be 18 years or older and will have the opportunity to engage in activities such as arts and crafts, story time, board games and more.

Founded in 1970, CIH Ireland works to promote a positive hospital experience for all children and families. With a team of 300 volunteers across 14 hospitals nationwide, the charity facilitates play opportunities, thereby easing the experience of hospitalisation for children and their families. CIH also advocates on behalf of all children and their families to ensure they have access to the supports and services they need, before, during and after hospitalisation.

Anne Gunning, a play volunteer at Mayo University Hospital said: "We would love to have more volunteers join us at Mayo University Hospital. Play creates a sense of fun and normalcy for a child during what is usually a very distressing time. We also give the parents a break, whether that is to go get a cup of tea, go home and shower, or even attend to other children. It is a simple service that makes such a difference."

Volunteer Coordinator at CIH Ireland, Jessica Hurley said that their 'volunteers play a huge role in making hospital a happier place for children'.

"They are at the heart of our organisation and we are delighted to be growing our volunteer team in Mayo. We will be recruiting volunteers across the country and welcome those from all walks of life to join us," she said.

CIH Ireland is hosting an information evening in Mayo on September 14 for those interested in volunteering. To register your interest, please visit childreninhospital.ie.
FLIGHTS in and out of Ireland West Airport Knock are unaffected by ongoing issues with UK air traffic control.

Yesterday, inbound flights from Liverpool, Bristol, London Luton and an outbound service to Heathrow was cancelled because of a technical fault with air traffic controllers in the UK.

A spokesperson for Ireland West Airport Knock told The Mayo News this afternoon that there would be no cancellations of any flights in or out of the airport today (Tuesday).

Flights from Liverpool, East Midlands and London Luton are due to arrive today while flights to Edinburgh, London LHR, Liverpool, East Midlands and London are to due depart from Knock.

Yesterday (Monday), approximately 100 flights between the UK and Ireland were cancelled following a technical fault at the UKs National Air Traffic Service (NATS).

The fault has since been resolved, but a number of flights between Dublin and the UK have still been cancelled today.

A spokesperson for Aer Lingus stated today: Like all airlines using UK airspace, we continue to face unavoidable cancellations and delays.

We are doing everything possible to minimise any further disruption to our customers and we apologise to all those impacted for the inconvenience caused, which is due to circumstances outside of our control.

In a statement today, Ryanair: Today, passengers can expect some flight disruptions as we work to get our aircraft and crews back on schedule. We expect some flight cancellations and considerable flight delays today caused by this latest, still unexplained, NATS failure.

We apologise sincerely to customers for these cancellations and delays. Our teams are working hard to minimise inconvenience to our passengers, the airline added.

Approximately 5 percent of all departures and arrivals to and from the UK have been cancelled today.

However, it is being reported that normal service is beginning to return to some UK airports, where thousands of passengers have been affected by delays.
The publication of the recommendations on possible boundary changes to Dail and European Parliament Constituencies tomorrow morning will be eagerly awaited in south Mayo where part of the county is in the Galway West constituency.

An Coimisiun Toghchain, Irelands Independent Electoral Commission will publish its recommendations on Irelands Dail and European Parliament Constituency Review 2023 at 8am tomorrow morning. An Coimisiun will lay its independent recommendations before the Oireachtas on the make-up of Irelands electoral constituencies for the next Dail and European Parliament elections.

A record 556 submissions were received by An Coimisiun Toghchain regarding boundary changes with many residents in south Mayo and local public representatives calling for the electoral divisions currently in the Galway West constituency to be returned to the Mayo constituency.

Constituency boundary changes in 2011 saw a large chunk of south Mayo including Ballinrobe transferred into the Galway West constituency but much of the area returned to the Mayo constituency following a further redrawing in 2017.

However, a significant part of south Mayo including Cong, Cross, The Neale, Shrule, Kilmaine, Gortjordan, Ballycushion and Kilroe remain in Galway West.

Many residents made submissions calling for the areas to be returned to the Mayo constituency as did a number of local public representatives.

Mayo TD, Michael Ring was among those to make a submissions where he stated that 'the county boundary should not be breached'

I am anxious that an area of South Mayo would revert back to the Constituency of Mayo. I believe that the county boundary should not be breached. Under the last Constituency review in 2017, a population of 4,893 in South Mayo was retained in the Galway West constituency. I am asking that the following areas be returned to within the Mayo boundary:  Cong, Dalgan, Houndswood, Kilmaine, Neale and Shrule, he stated.

Fellow Fine Gael TD, Alan Dillon also made a submission where he said it was 'of paramount importance that the county boundary be reinstated, and South Mayos rights and identity be respected'.

The new constituency of Galway West established in 2013, has had detrimental effects on the people of South Mayo. The inclusion of this region in the Galway West constituency has diluted its identity and disregarded the historical and cultural contributions of South Mayo to our great county of Mayo.

The results of the 2022 Census are expected to reveal a rise in the countys population, further highlighting the need to reassess the current constituency boundaries. Having Mayo TDs straddling two local authority areas is neither feasible nor efficient for managing representations. This administrative challenge places undue strain on our elected representatives and their constituents.

As such, I propose that the old Mayo constituency be reinstated with five TDs, ensuring that the rights of the people of South Mayo are respected and their voices are properly heard. Areas such as Cong, Cross, The Neale, Kilmaine, Gortjordan, Ballycushion, Shrule, Glencorrib, and Killroe need to be brought back to vote in Mayo for the next general election, he stated in his submission.

Local councillor Patsy O'Brien urged An Coimisiun Toghchain to return the south Mayo electoral divisions to the Mayo constituency and make it a five-seater constituency.

Galway city population has grown by 6,000 since 2011 and the county's population has grown by 3 percent gives weight to the argument that Mayo should be a five seater instead of being a fragmented county. South Mayo has become a political island, it falls between two stools in Galway west and Mayo.

We have a fragmented county but yet the entire county is still covered by Mayo County Council, he concluded.
Conservative Party leaders failed this summer to persuade a judge to disenroll some 68 Town of Evans voters from their party before the June 27 primary and block them from voting in the town supervisor race.

So now they are pursuing a new outcome: Ask the judge to reverse the outcome, or at least order a new primary.

The fears of Conservative Party leaders turned out to be correct in June when their preferred candidate for town supervisor lost the Conservative primary by two votes  on the strength of absentee ballots secured by the winner, Mike Masullo, a retired Evans police lieutenant who was passed over for the partys endorsement.

Before the June 27 primary, Erie County Conservative Party Chairman Ralph Lorigo took the rare step of asking a judge to disenroll the voters he said registered as Conservatives only because they wanted to vote for Masullo  not because they were in sympathy with the principles of the party, a requirement to vote in a primary. Lorigo called it a party invasion.

The votes in that primary from 55 voters who authorized Masullo to obtain their absentee ballot should not count since they did not meet the legal requirement of offering a valid reason to vote by absentee, Lorigo said.

State law requires a voter to give a reason for voting absentee, such as not being in your county or unable to appear at the polls due to illness or disability or because you are the primary care giver of someone whos ill.

None of those reasons were checked, which meant those ballots should have been invalid, Lorigo told The News.

The final tally in the Conservative Primary was 157 votes cast for Masullo and 155 votes cast for Raymond A. Ashton, the preferred candidate for party leaders.

Masullo received 64 absentee votes while his opponent received two absentee votes.

Given that Masullo only won the election by two votes, it is a mathematical certainty that setting aside these irregular, improper and illegal absentee ballots changes the election results, Lorigo said.

So he wants Ashton to be declared the winner, or at the very least the judge should order a new primary election for town supervisor, according to his court papers.

A hearing before State Supreme Court Justice Dennis Ward is scheduled for Thursday.

Erie County Attorney Jeremy Toth, representing Republican County Elections Commissioner Ralph Mohr and Democratic Commissioner Jeremy Zellner, opposes the effort.

The motion for a new primary, if such a thing even exists under the New York Civil Practice Law and Rules, should be denied, Toth said in court papers.

Toth, who also fought the earlier effort to disenroll the Conservative voters, cited procedural objections to Lorigos motion, adding Lorigo should not be allowed to deprive voters of their civil right to vote, which would be the net effect here.

Lorigo has said what happened in Evans could become a more common issue for minor political parties in other smaller towns. Party endorsements made before the Feb. 15 deadline to change party enrollment for a June primary election gives anyone who did not gain the partys endorsement a window to get supporters to switch parties and vote in the primary to try to win the line for the general election.
by Steve McClellan @mp_mcclellan, August 29, 2023

Omnicoms The Marketing Arm has completed its first annual Cultural Resonance Score, finding that Amazon is the most resonant brand among the general population while YouTube is number one among Gen Z.

Google, Crayola, Apple and Target rounded out the top-5 ranked brands by resonance when looking at the total population over age 18.

advertisement advertisement Apple, Marvel, Target and Google finished behind YouTube as the most resonant brands to Gen Z.

The agency notes that resonance differs from relevance in that resonance amplifies over time, versus relevance which is "in the moment."

The study measures both a brands standing in culture and identifies actions that can be taken to improve a brands cultural resonance, thereby driving growth.

TMA explains that resonance is built through awareness as well as through four pillars:

Recognition: Clarity of the brands role in the consumers world

Alliance: The consumers alignment to the brands perspective on the world

Engagement: Willingness to spend ones most valuable resource  time  with a brand

Advocacy: Active participation within the brand's community, magnifying its message to the world

A brands Cultural Resonance Score is calculated as an average of the four pillars.

The agency said that last year brands with the highest Cultural Resonance Score grew 25% more than their competitors and that the top three culturally resonant brands in the study grew at twice the rate of their competition.

CEO Trina Roffino stated, Our many subject matter experts have uncovered consistent patterns for growing cultural resonance in their domains. With the Cultural Resonance Score, weve built a complement to our qualitative expertise, so we can now measure and monitor the impact of marketing activities on cultural resonance.

The agency also applies resonance scores to categories. Chocolate, video games and toys are the top culturally resonant categories, followed closely by e-Commerce retailers (e.g., Amazon, Target) and pet care products. These categories all score in the 90th percentile.

TMA worked with BERA.ai, which the agency said is powered by the worlds largest syndicated brand equity data stream. BERA's Brand Intelligence Software automates the real-time collection, analysis, and measurement of 130+ consumer-based metrics across 4,000+ brands in 200+ sectors globally.
by Sarah Mahoney @mahoney_sarah, August 29, 2023

Both Walmart and Claires are expanding their presence in Roblox, with new back-to-school efforts designed to draw in hard-to-reach teens. And while the news follows disappointing financial results from Roblox, it shows just how vital virtual gaming is in reaching this elusive demographic.

Walmarts new Roblox experience is called Supercampus, a back-to-school adventure designed to help players solve puzzles by unleashing their creativity. Players aged 13 and older can use branded game elements from BIC Highlighters, Crayola Crayons and 3Ms Post-it Notes.

Claires new experience is based on a partnership with Super League, which builds immersive experiences. The move expands on ShimmerVille, the Roblox world Claires launched last year.

In keeping with the retailers vibe of self-expression, Supercampus, invites its backpacks-bangles-and-barrettes-obsessed audience to create their own style, using avatar wearables to build a new era of brand engagement.

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With ShimmerVille, we have created a 'phygital' experience for Gen Zalpha rich in creativity that drives community, brand love and personal expression, says Chris Duncan, vice president of consumer insights and digital marketing for Claire's, in the company's announcement. Now through Roblox's immersive world and our collaboration with Super League, we are furthering this exciting journey to reshape how we meet, engage with and grow our fanbase.

The Walmart and Claires experiences come even as Roblox wades through rough waters, further shaking marketers faith in the metaverse.

Earlier this month, the companys stock took a pounding as it released second-quarter results that missed forecasts, with both the top and bottom lines disappointing investors. Revenue gained 15% to $680.8 million, while net losses ballooned to $284.8 million, up from $178.7 million in the second quarter of 2022. Roblox also said it expects to continue to report losses for the foreseeable future.

Yet it also posted strong growth among users of all ages and geographies. It now has 65.5 million average daily active users, up 25% year-over-year. And it says it remains confident it will eventually reach 1 billion users. Users spent 14 billion hours engaged on the app, with hours-per-user increasing faster in those 13 and older than its younger customers.
Two pythons are going to have a ball in their next homes.

The SPCA Serving Erie County has found new digs for the ball pythons taken to the agency after employees at a Delta Sonic Car Wash in Amherst found them earlier this month.

They were among five pythons  three living and two dead  found at and near the Delta Sonic at Niagara Falls Boulevard and East Robinson Road during a one-month stretch in late July and August, officials said.

Two of them were taken to the SPCA and one was taken in by the person who found the snake.

The mystery of how they ended up at the car wash remains unanswered so far after no one claimed the snakes from the SPCA.

One of the pythons, which has patches of white skin known as piebald coloring, will remain with the SPCA at its West Seneca headquarters. It is the organizations newest employee in its Humane Education Department, spokeswoman Gina Lattuca told The Buffalo News in an email Tuesday morning.

Kaa will become an animal ambassador, helping to educate the community about ball pythons and provide experience with this incredible reptile! the agency posted online later Tuesday.

Kaa, of course, is named after the Indian rock python featured in the "Jungle Book" stories and films.

Christine Davis, director of community education for the SPCA, said agency employees take the ambassadors out to schools, camps, Scouting programs and other community events.

The animals help the agency spread the word about its services, proper care for pets and what to do when an owner can no longer care for a pet, Davis said.

Ball pythons are considered good starter snake companions but can be picky eaters, she said.

So, we will utilize Kaa to teach about proper care for ball pythons (and) cultivate empathy, as many people have a strong adverse reactions to snakes or are afraid of them due to their past experiences or the often negative imagery portrayal in the media, Davis said in an email.

This python was discovered about 8:10 p.m. on Aug. 14, curled up next to a hose in an outdoor area of the car wash and gas station complex.

The second python was placed for adoption, Lattuca said. That snake, a clown pastel ball python, was found about 9:10 a.m. Aug. 18 in an outdoor PVC pipe at the car wash.

Lattuca said the agency went through the messages it received from people interested in adopting one of the pythons after the cases were publicized and selected suitable owners.

The clown pastel ball python went home to North Tonawanda with new owners Monday evening, she said.

He is now living in Niagara County with the new name ... get this ... SONIC! Lattuca wrote.
News / National

by Staff reporter

Zimbabwe yesterday called the European Union (EU) to order following the release of an adverse preliminary report "full of misrepresentations and allegations" by the bloc's elections observer mission (EOM).In addition, Government said it was not "acceptable" for the EU's mission to impose its ideas and interfere in Zimbabwe's internal affairs attacking its constitutionally established democratic institutions.Last Friday, the EU's mission released a preliminary report that strayed from its mandate and was more of a collection of the opposition's speculations and grievances than an objective analysis of findings, something the Government said was unacceptable.President Mnangagwa had invited all those wishing to observe the polls across the globe, in the spirit of transparency and promoting credibility of last week's harmonised elections.Addressing a meeting with the EU ambassadors accredited to Zimbabwe as well as its Dean of Ambassadors yesterday, Acting Foreign Affairs and International Trade Minister, Professor Amon Murwira, described the EU's observer mission's conduct as "disturbing and unfortunate".Prof Murwira said it was mind boggling that the EU had chosen to mislead the world and as if that was not enough, gone on to meddle in the country's domestic affairs.He said that the European bloc had betrayed Zimbabwe's trust as they had not been objective in their assessment but instead chose to soil the country's image based on hearsay."Against this background, we find it disturbing and unfortunate that the EU Electoral Observation Mission deliberately issued a sweeping statement, full of misrepresentations and allegations. In great measure, the Preliminary Report was not based on the direct observation of the election, misleading the world on the conduct of our elections."We wish to emphasise that election observers are supposed to observe how an election has been conducted, and may make recommendations on areas of improvement, which Zimbabwe as a sovereign State can accept or reject."It is highly unfortunate that the EU EOM made conclusions based on hearsay, and on the basis of one-sided information from the opposition, as there appears to be a wholesome adoption of their positions on many issues."We had hoped that the EU EOM would observe our elections with an open mind and be impartial, as agreed in the Administrative Arrangement signed between the ministry and the EU, as well as the Code of Conduct for Observers. A preliminary report of this nature already points to a negative final report, which is clearly designed to damage the image of Zimbabwe," he said.The attack by the EU, he said, was unjustified especially coming on the back of unsubstantiated claims."It is unacceptable for an observation mission to arrogate itself the duty to assess our democratic institutions that were constitutionally established. This is gross interference in the internal affairs of a sovereign State and, therefore, totally unacceptable."Our Constitution and electoral laws provide adequate basis for conducting elections in line with regional and international standards. In our view, observer missions have no legal jurisdiction to comment on our Constitution and laws, and make judgmental pronouncements on our elections."In addition, our Constitution guarantees freedom of expression, assembly and association. It is clearly unacceptable, in Zimbabwe, as it is in any country for foreign interests to be a factor in domestic politics, and to agitate for a particular position in internal policy debates and in our legislature," said the minister.The EU is expected to release a final report which will detail its findings and assessments.To this end, Prof Murwira charged the bloc to be objective in their assessment and not just base their findings on what has been said by those who want to discredit the country's polls."Unsubstantiated allegations against such sovereign institutions, which are the backbone of our democracy, are very unfortunate and unacceptable. In that regard we value democracy and democratic institutions, and will do everything in our power to preserve them.". . . it is our sincere hope that the final report of the EU EOM, will reflect what was observed on the ground and not a collection of opposition grievances and speculations from those who want to discredit our elections."The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Trade stands ready to collaborate with the European Union Election Observer Mission and other observers from all over the world, who wish to contribute to our democratic processes," he said.Speaking on Sunday following the announcement of Presidential results, President Mnangagwa had registered his discontentment with how some of the observers had strayed from their mandate."It is not the mandate of observers to interrogate institutions of a sovereign government, the judiciary, legislature, and governance. Their mandate is to observe the peacefulness and transparency in the conduct of elections," said President Mnangagwa."It is my view that every single sovereign country passes their legislation through their legislature and Zimbabwe is not an exception."
"Texas National Guard member fires across Rio Grande, wounds Mexican citizen" was first published by The Texas Tribune, a nonprofit, nonpartisan media organization that informs Texans  and engages with them  about public policy, politics, government and statewide issues.

Sign up for The Brief, The Texas Tribunes daily newsletter that keeps readers up to speed on the most essential Texas news.

A National Guard member on duty at the Texas-Mexico border in El Paso fired across the Rio Grande, injuring a 37-year-old Mexican man in Ciudad Juarez on Saturday night, according to the Texas Military Department and Mexican news outlets.

On the night of 26 August, a National Guard Servicemember assigned to Operation Lone Star discharged a weapon in a border-related incident, a spokesperson for the military department said in a statement. The incident is under investigation. More information will be made available as the investigation progresses.

According to El Diario, a Spanish language newspaper in Juarez, Darwin Jose Garcia of the southern Mexican state of Veracruz was practicing a sport on the Mexican side of the Rio Grande around 8:50 p.m. Saturday while a group of migrants were crossing the river. Garcia said he then heard shots and realized he had been shot in the leg, the newspaper reported.

In December 2022, Gov. Greg Abbott sent state troopers and National Guard members to El Paso as part of Operation Lone Star, a multibillion-dollar state effort launched in 2021 to deter migrants from crossing the Rio Grande along the 1,200-mile Texas-Mexico border.

The military department didnt release any additional information. The U.S. Border Patrol, the Texas Department of Public Safety and Gov. Greg Abbotts office didnt immediately respond to emails from The Texas Tribune and the Military Times seeking comment on Monday.

The shooting happened near the Bridge of the Americas, which is close to a national park on the Mexican side. The man was treated by paramedics at the scene, transported to a Juarez hospital and was later released, according to La Verdad, a news outlet in the Mexican border city.

Its the second time that a Texas National Guard member has shot a civilian while deployed for Operation Lone Star, and the third known time that a soldier has fired their weapon while on duty at the border.

On Jan. 13, Spc. Angel Gallegos shot migrant Ricardo Rodriguez Nieto in the shoulder near Mission in the Rio Grande Valley. The soldier claimed he accidentally fired his service handgun while wrestling with Rodriguez Nieto, who denied touching Gallegos and said the shot was fired from the kitchen into the living room of an abandoned home. Other migrants who witnessed the shooting echoed Rodriguez Nietos version of events when interviewed by Texas Rangers.

According to documents provided through an open records request, the Hidalgo County District Attorney declined to present the case to a grand jury, citing insufficient evidence and unclear jurisdiction.

A year earlier in January 2022, a Texas Guard member used his M4 carbine to disable a Chrysler 300 sedan driven by a suspected smuggler in Laredo. The soldier told investigators that he fired his rifle into the cars engine after the driver, who was arrested after abandoning his vehicle, attempted to run over another Texas Guard member.

The Border Network for Human Rights, an El Paso-based immigrant rights group, condemned Saturdays shooting, calling for the U.S. Department of Justice to investigate.

Here at the border, we can no longer withstand the violence and cruelty unleashed and demand immediate action from our federal and state governments. Enough is enough, said Fernando Garcia, the groups executive director.

This article originally appeared in The Texas Tribune

The Texas Tribune is a member-supported, nonpartisan newsroom informing and engaging Texans on state politics and policy. Learn more at texastribune.org.
Nebraska Gov. Jim Pillen announced Saturday that the Nebraska Army National Guard soldiers who were sent to the U.S.- Mexico border last month to aid authorities in efforts to counter immigration and drug trafficking are expected to return home Friday.

The 61 soldiers have been stationed there since Aug. 2 to provide "additional observation and reporting near the border" to assist Texas law enforcement involved in Operation Lone Star.

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott launched the operation in March 2021, deploying resources from the Texas Department of Public Safety and the Texas National Guard to the border in an effort to secure the area.

Nebraska is one of 14 states that has recently sent troops and resources to support the operation. The other states are Arkansas, Florida, Iowa, Idaho, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Virginia, West Virginia and Texas.

This month's deployment marked the fourth time a Nebraska governor has sent state troopers to the border and the second time this year.

Pillen in May deployed 10 members of the Nebraska State Patrol to the border to assist with drone surveillance operations.

This summer's deployments could cost the state as much as $2.6 million, according to State Budget Director Lee Will.

Pillen defended the expense after visiting the border with Nebraska National Guard Adj. Gen. Craig Strong last week. The two met with troops and got a security briefing from Abbott.

"Based on what I saw today, the cost of the two recent deployments of National Guard troops and State Patrol troopers is worth the prevention of having illegal drugs and criminals pour through the southern border at ever-increasing numbers each day," Pillen said during his trip.

___

(c)2023 Lincoln Journal Star, Neb.

Visit Lincoln Journal Star, Neb. at www.journalstar.com

Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
Actor and director Sean Penn arrived in Ukraine in late 2021 with the hopes of telling the story of Ukraine's president, Volodymyr Zelenskyy. He would find himself in Kyiv when the invasion began in February 2022, when his plan changed into "something less controllable, but more meaningful."

Filming over the course of that year, the 63-year-old actor captured history in Kyiv as the first Russian bombs dropped on the city, speaking with Zelenskyy in an undisclosed bunker as ordnance burst around them before venturing to the war's front lines after the initial Russian invasion ground to a halt.

"The film we set out to make was not meant to encounter an existential threat to democracy, just the spirited story of a comedy superstar turned president," Penn says. The resulting feature, "Superpower," would instead capture Ukraine's fight for freedom.

Penn traveled to Ukraine seven times while making the film with co-director Aaron Kaufman ("Machete Kills"), and Zelenskyy remains a central figure in the story. According to its official description, "Amid moments of levity, inspiration and on-the-ground storytelling, the film shows that Ukraine's superpower lies in the strength of its leader, its people and ultimately its heart."

Also featured in the documentary are veterans of Russia's 2014 invasion of Crimea, an invasion that resulted in the peninsula's illegal annexation. Civilians, other political figures and war widows tell their stories as well. Penn goes on to interview soldiers, including women who became snipers and children preparing for Russian forces.

The Russian invasion of Ukraine is the largest invasion to unfold on European soil since World War II, and has become one of the bloodiest conflicts of the 21st century. Russians outnumber Ukrainians 3-to-1 on the battlefield, but with Western support, Ukraine is punching well above its class.

As of August 2023, American officials believe an estimated 120,000 Russians have died fighting in Ukraine, with another 180,000 wounded. Ukraine has sustained 70,000 killed and 120,000 wounded. But with Russia's military force numbering around 1.3 million and Ukraine's at 500,000, there's a lot more killing to come.

"Superpower" premiered at the Berlin Film Festival in February 2023, marking the one-year anniversary of Russia's invasion. It is set to begin streaming on Paramount+ on Sept. 18.

-- Blake Stilwell can be reached at blake.stilwell@military.com. He can also be found on Facebook, Twitter, or on LinkedIn.

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News / National

by Staff reporter

THE gross interference on the country's internal affairs and overstepping by some electoral observer missions will not be tolerated in Zimbabwe as is the case anywhere in the world.The Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade, Professor Amon Murwira, said this yesterday following a meeting with European Union Ambassadors accredited to Zimbabwe.The minister said the Government was compelled to respond to the EU Electoral Observation Missions (EU EOM) Preliminary Report, which exhibited biased and misrepresented truths with regard to Zimbabwe's elections.The EU EOM released its preliminary report last Friday amid concerns that the mission overstepped its boundaries.Prof Murwira said the Government finds the EU EOM preliminary report rather disturbing, and unfortunate and that its contents are not a product of direct observation."We wish to emphasize that election observers are supposed to observe how an election has been conducted, and may make recommendations on areas of improvement, which Zimbabwe as a sovereign State can accept or reject," he said."It's highly unfortunate that the EU EOM made conclusions based on hearsay, and on the basis of one-sided information from the opposition, as there appears to be a wholesome adoption of their positions on many issues."We had hoped that the EU EOM would observe our elections with an open mind and be impartial, as agreed in the Administrative Arrangement signed between the ministry and the EU, as well as the Code of Conduct for Observers."Prof Murwira said the preliminary report points to a negative final report, which is clearly designed to damage the image of Zimbabwe."It is unacceptable for an Observer Mission to arrogate itself the duty to assess our democratic institutions that were constitutionally established. This is gross interference in the internal affairs of a sovereign State and, therefore, totally unacceptable," he said.Prof Murwira said Zimbabwe held a peaceful election, although several glitches including delays in delivery of ballot boxes were encountered, voters were not disenfranchised of their right to vote."ZEC gave a detailed explanation of some of the unforeseen challenges encountered, including the logistical challenges."To characterise the challenges as significant irregularities is unfair because ZEC promptly addressed them and the period of voting for the affected polling stations was extended backed by the relevant Statutory Instrument," said Prof Murwira.He said claims of voter intimidation are baseless as Zimbabweans heeded President Mnangagwa's call for peace throughout the election period."It's, therefore, important that information alleging intimidation of voters be verified before observers make conclusions. For example, the huge voter turnout, and the peace that prevailed cannot justify any allegation of intimidation," said the minister.Prof Murwira said the country's constitution and electoral laws conform to regional and international standards hence observer missions have no legal jurisdiction to comment on the country's legislation."In addition, our Constitution guarantees freedom of expression, assembly, and association. It's clearly unacceptable, in Zimbabwe, as it is in any country for foreign interests to be a factor in domestic politics, and to agitate for a particular position in internal policy debates and in our legislature," he said."The attack on the judiciary is unjustified. Unsubstantiated allegations against such sovereign institutions, which are the backbone of our democracy, are very unfortunate and unacceptable."In that regard, we value democracy and democratic institutions, and will do everything in our power to preserve them."Prof Murwira said claims that electoral fees were too high cannot be substantiated while there was increased access to media by all contesting political parties.He said the EU EOM was misled to believe the country has a Patriotic Act when in reality it only amended the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act."The Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act, which the EU EOM characterizes as the Patriotic Act does not in any way infringe on the freedoms of assembly and association as alleged. It simply criminalizes willful injury of the sovereignty and national interests of Zimbabwe," said Prof Murwira.He said claims that only opposition rallies were not sanctioned are false as police rejected more applications for rallies by Zanu-PF proving the impartiality of the law agents. Prof Murwira said normally the ministry will not come in defense of any of the political parties and their affiliates as this can be done by these institutions.However, the Government has observed that Zanu-PF and Forever Associates Zimbabwe have come under relentless attack by certain observers, including the EU EOM, without being accorded an interview or given a chance to defend themselves."This is not consistent with the basic principles of justice and democracy, which require that the affiliate in question should also be heard just like the other stakeholder organizations," said Prof Murwira.He said the Government hopes that the final report of the EU EOM will reflect what was observed on the ground, and not a collection of opposition grievances, and speculations from those who want to discredit local elections.Prof Murwira said the Foreign Affairs and International Trade Ministry stands ready to collaborate with the European Union Election Observer Mission and other observers from all over the world, who wish to contribute to the country's democratic processes.
The Blue Jays announced that shortstop Bo Bichette has been placed on the 10-day injured list, retroactive to August 28, with a right quad strain. Infielder Mason McCoy has been selected to the roster in a corresponding move. The club already had a 40-man vacancy.

For Bichette, its his second trip to the IL this month, as he landed there in early August due to patellar tendinitis in his right knee. The Jays acquired Paul DeJong from the Cardinals to cover for Bichettes absence but he hit just .068/.068/.068 for the Jays and was designated for assignment when Bichette returned just over two weeks later. Unfortunately, Bichette departed a game earlier this week due to quad tightness and it seems its serious enough that the club will give him at least a week-plus to rest. The club hasnt provided any details on how long they expect Bichette to be out.

The move leaves the Jays without both of their regulars from the left side of their infield, as third baseman Matt Chapman landed on the IL yesterday due to a right middle finger sprain. That will leave the club improving solutions for those spots as they look to stay afloat in the American League Wild Card race. Perhaps the club has some regret over letting go of DeJong, but he hasnt been thriving since signing with the Giants, hitting just .150/.143/.300 since signing with that club.

Ernie Clement played shortstop for the Jays yesterday and is in that spot again tonight. Davis Schneider was at the hot corner last night but Santiago Espinal gets the nod tonight, as Schneider moves over to second. Cavan Biggio has some third base experience and the club reportedly has some openness to using Vladimir Guerrero Jr. there as well, though it sounds like that might be limited to late-game defensive swaps based on in-game moves.

They will also add McCoy to their roster to serve as infield depth. He was just acquired a month ago from the Mariners with Trent Thornton heading the other way. The 28-year-old McCoy has long been considered a strong defender, though with his bat not drawing as much praise. In 467 Triple-A appearances this year, hes walked at a 12% clip but also struck out 29.3% of the time. His .226/.324/.383 line amounts to a wRC+ of just 71, but hes been able to play some shortstop, second base, third base and left field. Hell give the Jays a glove-first option on the bench, making his major league debut as soon as he gets into a game.

Active rosters expand from 26 to 28 in September, which will provide the Jays an opportunity to potentially add another infielder into the mix. A maximum of 14 of the 28 players can be pitchers, meaning the Jays will have to add at least one position player, as they currently have a 13-13 split. Addison Barger, Orelvis Martinez and Spencer Horwitz are all on the 40-man roster and could be options. Barger and Martinez both have plenty of experience on the left side of the diamond but neither has made their major league debut yet. Horwitz was able to debut in the big leagues earlier this year but has mostly just played first base and left field. Outfielder Nathan Lukes is also on the 40-man but doesnt have any infield experience.
The Mets signed first baseman/corner outfielder Daniel Palka to a minor league contract yesterday, according to an announcement from their Triple-A club in Syracuse. Hell join their top affiliate there.

Palka, 31, is familiar with the New York organization. He spent the 2022 campaign in Syracuse on a minor league pact, hitting .263/.344/.506 with 26 longballs over 109 games. The Mets never gave him a big league look. He returned to minor league free agency last offseason and caught on with the Red Sox on a non-roster pact.

Through 314 plate appearances with the Soxs top affiliate in Worcester, Palka hit .233/.309/.410 with 12 home runs. Boston released him towards the end of July. A month later, the left-handed hitter makes his return to Syracuse. Hell have a little over a month to try to play his way onto the big league roster.

Palkas only MLB experience to date came with the 2018-19 White Sox. He appeared in 154 games over those two seasons, roughly one full campaigns worth of work. He blasted 29 home runs and slugged .433, but he struck out in nearly 35% of his trips. His .218 average and .277 on-base percentage reflected his trouble consistently putting the ball in play.

That hasnt been as big a problem at the Triple-A level. Palkas strikeout rates there have hovered between 21-24%, roughly league average rates, over the past three seasons. Yet he didnt hit for his typical level of power in Worcester, as his .410 slugging mark there is the lowest hes posted in any of his seven Triple-A campaigns.
ALLEN PARK -- The Buffalo Bills are releasing veteran safety Dean Marlowe ahead of the 53-man roster deadline, ESPNs Adam Schefter reports.

Marlowe spent the 2021 season with the Detroit Lions, where he appeared in every game, earning nine starts. That campaign still represents the most productive season of his career. Marlowe notched 67 tackles, playing a career-high 700 defensive snaps.

The 31-year-old was one-and-done in Detroit, though. Marlowe signed with the Atlanta Falcons but was traded to the Buffalo Bills at last seasons trade deadline. Marlowe appeared in 12 games, earning two starts across those stops last season, returning to his meaty role on special teams in 2022.

Marlowe broke into the league as an undrafted free agent out of Holy Cross in 2015. Hes spent time with the Carolina Panthers, two stints with the Bills, and one apiece with Lions and Falcons.

Back in Detroit, the Lions are rocking a new-and-improved safety rotation. Its looking like its going to be Kerby Joseph and C.J. Gardner-Johnson starting, with Tracy Walker super-boosting the safety depth in a meaty rotational role. They also have Ifeatu Melifonwu, Brady Breeze and Brandon Joseph on the roster. Will Harris provides experience at safety in a pinch, as well. Melifonwu is dealing with another injury, missing the preseason roster and recent practices.
Isabella Volmert, The Dallas Morning News (TNS)

DALLAS  A former Navy SEAL who has claimed to have fired the shots that killed Osama bin Laden was arrested this week in Frisco.

Robert J. ONeill, 47, was booked into jail Wednesday, according to Collin County records, and released on $3,500 bond the same day. ONeill did not respond to requests for comment, and it was not clear whether he had an attorney.

In a written statement, Frisco police said ONeill faces a Class A misdemeanor charge of assault causing bodily injury and a Class C misdemeanor charge of public intoxication. Jail records list only the assault charge.

Frisco police declined to release more information Friday about the arrest.

Social media posts show that ONeill, listed as a Tennessee resident in jail records, was in Frisco on Tuesday to record a podcast at a cigar lounge.

ONeill, originally from Montana, first said in 2014 that he fired the shots that killed bin Laden in 2011. The U.S. government has neither confirmed nor denied the account.

The former SEAL Team 6 member, who has received two Silver Stars, four Bronze Stars and a Joint Service Commendation Medal, wrote a memoir, The Operator, about his military service.

He made headlines in 2020 when Delta Air Lines banned him after he reportedly removed his face mask on a flight at a time when passengers were required to wear one to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

In 2016, prosecutors in Montana dropped a DUI charge against ONeill. Both sides stipulated that the charge stemmed from prescription medication he used to treat a condition connected to his military service, the Montana Standard reported.

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2023 The Dallas Morning News. Visit dallasnews.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
ANN ARBOR, MI -- A 19-year-old Detroit man was arrested Saturday night after he injured two people at an Ann Arbor nightclub, including biting an employee in the genitals.

Gino Hearn, 19, was arraigned in the 14A District Court on Monday, Aug. 28, for one count of assaulting a police officer causing injuries, two count of resisting a police officer, one count of aggravated assault and two counts of simple assault, according to Ann Arbor police.

Ann Arbor police officers were called at 11:55 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 26, to Necto Nightclub, 516 E. Liberty St., in Ann Arbor for a report of an assault. Preliminary investigation revealed a 19-year-old man from Detroit, identified as Hearn, had punched a nightclub employee in the face after he was denied entry.

Hearn also bit two employees, police said. A 20-year-old employee was taken to the University of Michigan Hospital for injuries, including being grabbed and bitten in the genitals by Hearn.

A police officer also suffered minor injuries while placing Hearn in handcuffs.

Hearn currently is being held in the Washtenaw County Jail on a $25,000 bond. He is next set to appear in court on Thursday, Sept. 7.

Want more Ann Arbor-area news? Bookmark the local Ann Arbor news page, the Ypsilanti-area news page or sign up for the free 3@3 Ann Arbor daily newsletter.

Read more from The Ann Arbor News:

63-year-old man missing after canoe capsizes on Horseshoe Lake

Man accused of using rock to fracture victims skull heads to trial

Significant security concern prompted internet outage at University of Michigan
WASHTENAW COUNTY, MI - Emergency crews are searching for a 63-year-old man whose canoe capsized on a Washtenaw County lake on Tuesday.

Rescue crews were called to Horseshoe Lake around 11 a.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 29, for reports of the missing man, according to Derrick Jackson, spokesperson for the Washtenaw County Sheriffs Office.

The police were dispatched to the 8000 block of Lakeshore Drive in Northfield Township.

A 63-year-old man and another person, whose age and gender have not been identified, were canoeing when they capsized, police said. The other person swam to shore and called police.

Elaine Baublitz, who grew up on the lake, said she had never seen a similar rescue. The area attracts kayakers, jet skiers and boaters, she said.

This is where I was every summer and nothing like this has happened, Baublitz said.

The 63-year-old man was still missing as of roughly 1 p.m. on Tuesday, according to police. Crews from the Northfield Township fire and police departments were assisted by Green Oak Township Police Department, Hamburg Police Department, Huron Valley Ambulance and the Washtenaw County Sheriffs Office.

Read more from The Ann Arbor News:

Man accused of using rock to fracture victims skull heads to trial

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by Staff reporter

THE Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (Zec)'s move to sideline Printflow in favour of Fidelity Printers and Refiners to print ballot papers backfired during this week's crucial poll, the Zimbabwe Independent can reveal.Wednesday's elections saw many polling stations, especially in urban areas, opening late or failing to open due to the late delivery of ballot papers. This forced Zec to extend polling to Thursday in 40 wards in Manicaland, Mashonaland Central and Harare provinces.According to sources, both companies printed ballot papers in previous elections.The Independent reported last week that both companies had been contracted by Zec to print ballot papers and minimise security risks.It emerged this week following the delays in delivery of ballot papers that Fidelity did the bulk of the printing of the ballot papers, while Printflow only printed V11 and V23 forms used to enter voting data.According to Zec, they printed about seven million ballot papers for each election  the presidential, National Assembly and local councils.Mgcini Siziba, spokesperson at Fidelity, refused to comment on the issue yesterday, while general manager Peter Magaramombe referred the Independent to Zec.Zec said on Wednesday chaotic scenes witnessed in mostly urban voting centres were because of the printing delays it faced following legal challenges from political parties..It said the legal actions meant that authorities had to wait for courts to clear everything before moving to print ballot papers."Some polling stations did not open on time due to the late deployment of election material," Zec said."Delays in the opening have largely been caused by delays in the printing of the ballot paper arising from numerous court challenges. This has been the case with Harare and Bulawayo provinces."Another source said: "The decision to favour one company to print the ballot papers triggered this chaos. Fidelity was overwhelmed by the work, hence the mistakes and poor quality ballot paper."Zec failed to spread risk around ballot paper printing. Giving all responsibility to Fidelity was a big mistake because it has been facing capacity challenges."Because of the fact that Printflow had also been awarded the printing tender, Zec ended up assigning it to print V11s and V23s. The majority of the contract was given to Fidelity."A senior Treasury source told the Independent yesterday that this year's poll was well-funded and insisted that the glitches encountered were a result of subdued capacity at Fidelity Printers.He said ballot papers were procured and delivered about three months before the election."The glitches were not a result of funding because Zec on its own admitted that they were fully funded," the source said."Finance for elections was secured more than a year ago. Therefore, the move to Fidelity Printers alone exposed serious capacity challenges. Zec failed to spread the risk and this stretched Fidelity to the limit."The court challenges also exerted more pressure on Zec. Fidelity was now expected to work overtime despite its already subdued capacity."Citizens Coalition for Change leaders told reporters in Harare yesterday that what the country was witnessing was the result of Zec's poor planning."We heard Zec saying the printing of ballot papers was delayed by the issue of court cases but we should not have gotten to this if Zec had conducted its affairs in a credible and transparent manner," CCC spokesperson Promise Mkwananzi said.The poor quality ballot papers produced by Zec courted the ire of Elisabeth Valerio, the only female candidate in the presidential poll on a United Zimbabwe Alliance (UZA) ticket."My photo on the ballot is smudged and completely unrecognisable," Valerio said on Wednesday, speaking after casting her vote in Hwange."UZA supporters at many polling stations have been waiting for hours to cast their votes as ballot papers are arriving late. Some have reported intimidation, but we remain determined and optimistic."Voting at several polling stations, particularly in Harare, Manicaland and Bulawayo, was delayed by several hours on Wednesday due to late delivery of ballot papers, while voting in some wards in Manicaland commenced yesterday.Voting only started after lunch at some centres, with voters casting their ballots into the night after Zec extended the time for polling stations, which opened late.In Warren Park and Cold Comfort in Harare, our reporters said ballot papers arrived at sunset.Zec staffers took more than two hours to commence the voting process, saying they were conducting a verification exercise.Voting began a little before 7pm in Warren Park, while at Cold Comfort Primary School polling station, voting started after 8pm.In Bulawayo's Cowdray Park suburb, voting started after 2pm.
WASHTENAW COUNTY, MI -- A man accused of fracturing another mans skull during a parking lot altercation will soon head to trial.

Ryan Osborn, 37, waived his preliminary examination on Tuesday, Aug. 29, in a hearing before Judge Cedric Simpson, sending his case to the Washtenaw County Circuit Court.

He was originally charged with assault with intent to murder and arraigned in the 15th District Court on Sunday, June 18. An alternative charge of assault with great bodily harm less than murder was added to the case during the most recent hearing.

Osborn was bound over to circuit court on both counts.

Ann Arbor police were called to the 300 block of South Maple Road around 11 p.m. on Friday, June 16, for a report of a man in a parking lot. When they arrived, officers found a 38-year-old Ann Arbor man alone in the parking lot with significant injuries to his head.

Surveillance video showed an altercation between two men, with Osborn intentionally throwing a large rock at the victims head while he was on the ground.

Read more: Man accused of using a rock to fracture victims skull in Ann Arbor

Osborn was arrested at the University of Michigan Hospital and arraigned from his hospital bed.

The victim was taken to the University of Michigan Hospital. He was originally in critical condition, Ann Arbor police previously said.

The incident is not believed to be random, police said.

Osborn is next set to appear in court on Monday, Sept. 11. He is currently being held in the Washtenaw County Jail on a $500,000 bond.

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GRAND RAPIDS, MI -- A federal judge has dismissed Grand Rapids City as a defendant in a lawsuit seeking millions after a police officer fatally shot Congolese immigrant Patrick Lyoya.

U.S. District Court Judge Paul Maloney on Monday, Aug. 28 granted a city motion to dismiss it from the lawsuit.

Christopher Schurr, the now ex-Grand Rapids police officer who shot Lyoya on April 4, 2022 during a struggle, remains a party to the lawsuit.

Schurr attempted to arrest Lyoya following a traffic stop in a Southeast Grand Rapids neighborhood when a struggle ensued between the two. They fought over possession of the officers Taser when Schurr, who was on top of Lyoya at the time, drew his gun and shot Lyoya.

Maloney wrote that attorneys for the Lyoya family failed to show a solid connection between inadequate police training for Schurr and what happened on April 4, 2022.

It does not explain how the Citys inadequate training regarding use of force caused Schurr to allegedly use excessive force on Patrick, nor that the City could reasonably foresee Schurr using excessive force due to a lack of training, Maloney wrote.

He also wrote that the Lyoya family attorneys failed to show a solid link between claims of endemic racial discrimination by Grand Rapids police and what happened to Lyoya.

The complaint fails to plead any link between this alleged custom of racial discrimination and Schurrs allegedly discriminatory actions toward Patrick, Maloney wrote.

In announcing the lawsuit in December, attorneys for the Lyoya family said they were seeking $100 million.

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KALAMAZOO, MI -- A man was cleaning what appeared to be red spray paint on Tuesday, Aug. 29, from the base of a new Abraham Lincoln statue that was unveiled in Kalamazoos Bronson Park days earlier.

The statue was revealed to the public on the afternoon of Sunday, Aug. 27, and the paint was spotted Tuesday.

The graffiti was mostly removed from the base of the statue by 2 p.m. Tuesday. Photos from WWMT show the graffiti said, 38 Dakota Warrior, an apparent reference to the U.S. Dakota War of 1862, in which 38 Dakota men were hanged.

Lincoln approved the list of men to be executed to include those who had participated in massacres of civilians, according to text published by the Minnesota Historical Society.

31 1 / 31 Lincoln statue unveiled

A few hundred people gathered at 2 p.m., Sunday, Aug. 27, at Kalamazoos Bronson Park to see the statue unveiled. It debuted at the same time and place that Lincoln spoke at the park in 1856.

Cameron Brown, president of the Kalamazoo Abraham Lincoln Institute, said the unfortunate act of vandalism goes against the people of Kalamazoo.

Its in complete odds with the outpouring of joy and celebration that was shown in the park just two days ago, Brown said. The city of Kalamazoo has filed a police report and is reviewing security footage. I dont think people realize theres a high degree of surveillance in the park.

He asked anyone with information to call Silent Observer at 269-343-2100.

Red paint stains the engraving on the Abraham Lincoln Statue in Bronson Park in Kalamazoo, Michigan on Tuesday, Aug. 29. The statue was found with the words 38 Dakota warrior spray painted on it the morning of the 29th(Nate Pappas | MLive.com) Nate Pappas | MLive.com

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MUSKEGON, MI  Construction of affordable apartments near downtown Muskegon is being pursued by an Ohio developer that missed out on an earlier development opportunity in the city.

Spire Development plans to seek state assistance in funding a 50- to 100-unit apartment building within sight of the Bayview Towers complex.
BAY CITY, MI  A Detroit man who was taken down by employees of a popular downtown Bay City jewelry store as he alleged attempted to make off with a diamond ring has accepted a plea deal.

Antoine R. Rackard-Hester Jr., 21, on Monday, Aug. 28, appeared before Bay County Circuit Judge Jessie Scott Wood and pleaded no contest to one count of larceny from a person. The charge is a 10-year felony.

In exchange for his plea, the prosecution agreed to dismiss a four-year felony count of first-degree retail fraud.

By pleading no contest rather than guilty, Rackard-Hester did not admit to having committed a crime. Wood relied on documents to enter a conviction on the record.

According to police reports, police about 12:30 p.m. on March 27 responded to a robbery in progress at Herman Hiss & Company, 905 Washington Ave. The caller said the would-be robber was being held down on the ground by a male employee.

Officers arrived and arrested Rackard-Hester. Meanwhile, officers pursued a tan 2013 Ford Taurus with a temporary paper license plate witnesses said contained two female accomplices. Police eventually lost track of the Taurus and ended their pursuit.

Herman Hiss manager told officers she was suspicious when Rackard-Hester and a woman entered the store, as they were both wearing masks. She directed her employees to go to the front of the business to deter potential theft, she said.

After Rackard-Hester and the woman were in the store for about 15 minutes, Rackard-Hester tried stealing a diamond ring, she said. A 35-year-old male employee reacted by tackling Rackard-Hester and holding him until officers arrived, she said.

The employee in question, a sales associate, told police Rackard-Hester and the woman were looking for LEO diamonds, which he said are an expensive brand Herman Hiss does not carry. Rackard-Hester told the man he was shopping for an engagement ring, describing the woman accompanying him as his sister, the employee told police.

It was very suspicious, but we walked over to the diamond rings, he said. I only pointed to the rings in the case at first because that is our protocol. Antoine began asking for 3- or 4-carat diamond rings, but we do not pull those out of the case.

Rackard-Hester then said money was no object and that he was looking to spend $15,000 to $20,000, the employee told police.

They made the comment that money aint no thing and basically took offense to me for not pulling rings out of the case, he said.

The sales associate eventually pulled out a solitaire diamond ring, which Rackard-Hester showed to the woman. The employee sized the ring on her finger, he said.

Rackard-Hester and the woman then conversed for several minutes, with Rackard-Hester asking her, Do you think she would like this one?

At that point, the woman ran from the store. Rackard-Hester was still holding the ring and also started to leave.

I naturally just reached over and grabbed Antoine by the shoulder with my right hand, the employee told police. Antoine continued to pull away from me and run out of the store with the diamond ring in his right hand.

The employee was able to get around the glass counter and put Rackard-Hester in a bear hug, he said. The employee said he twisted his right ankle in the scuffle but did not need medical attention.

Another employee said Rackard-Hester had his arm in the doorway as he fled. She repeatedly shut the door on his arm, causing him to drop the ring.

Rackard-Hester had $145 in cash on him but no weapons. Read Miranda rights, he declined to speak with police.

About 7:48 p.m. the same day, a woman called Bay County Central Dispatch claiming she had seen media reports of the incident and wanted to turn herself in. On speaking with an officer, the woman gave two different names for herself, police reports state.

The woman told the officer media reports were inaccurate and she wanted to clear her name.

I already know Im gonna get arrested, she said. Yall are gonna have to come get me cause Im not coming back up to Bay City. I just wanted to let yall know. I dont have anything to say to the detectives. Id rather yall come get me, charge me, and well go from there.

Judge Wood is scheduled to sentence Rackard-Hester at 2:30 p.m. on Oct. 9.
BAY CITY, MI  Throughout his life, Brian S. Vega battled mental illness, causing him to live in adult foster care facilities in recent years. When things were going well, staff at the facilities questioned if it was necessary to house him there.

At other times, when he had an episode, it was clear he needed professional assistance.

He had been struggling with bipolar disorder for 45 years and he couldnt handle stress, said his sister, Patricia Finerty. At the same time, she remembered her younger brother as a quiet soul.

Vega at about 2 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 25, walked away from the facility he lived at in the 1400 block of Fifth Street. Just about 48 hours later, a passerby spotted Vegas body floating in the Saginaw River near Wenonah Park in downtown Bay City.

Vega had no children but had been married once, that union ending in divorce. Born in Bridgeport, Vega was a carpenter by trade, Finerty said.

For more than a decade, Vega lived in a facility in Traverse City but was transferred to Bay City in February. For hobbies, he liked to watch old western and war movies.

He was a great guy, Finerty said. Both AFC houses said he was their best resident.

To mark Vegas 64th birthday on March 6, his sister and her family continued an annual tradition of taking him to his favorite restaurant, Boones Long Lake Inn in Traverse City.

In recent months, Vega underwent a change in his prescribed medication. He was not doing well on the new meds, his sister said.

On May 20, Vega experienced a bipolar episode that required him to be hospitalized.

He never recovered from that, Finerty said. It just spiraled out of control the last three months.

Finerty again saw her brother in June and earlier in August and said he was doing not well on either occasion. He had lost weight and was almost like a zombie, she said.

Typically, he would call me and he hadnt been calling me, she said. Even though he had a cellphone, he wasnt using it. He wasnt answering it.

About two weeks ago, staff at the AFC house tried getting Vega admitted to McLaren Bay Regions psychiatric ward. McLaren would not accept him as he was not considered a danger to himself or others, Finerty said.

Two weeks later, hes in the river, she said.

Vega had an evaluation with a case worker Friday just before he walked away from the facility. He left without wallet or eyeglasses, something which baffled Finerty due to her brothers poor vision.

I dont even know how he crossed Center Avenue without his glasses, she said.

On receiving word that Vega had left the facility, family began sharing his photos on social media and asking people to keep an eye out for him. A woman reported seeing him talking to himself in the parking lot of Penzien-Steele Funeral Home, 608 N. Madison Ave., for about a half-hour Friday afternoon.

The AFC houses staff drove around the city looking for Vega but were unable to locate him. Police also responded to the AFC house Friday.

Bay City Public Safety Deputy Director Rod Schanck said there were no obvious signs of foul play on Vegas body. An autopsy is scheduled to take place Monday afternoon to determine the cause, manner, and approximate time of Vegas death.

Vega was the third of five children and the only boy. Finerty, older than him by 18 months, still lives in Michigan while his other three sisters reside out of state.

We all loved him very much. Its unfortunate that this happened, Finerty said.

She added that her family would like to thank those in online neighborhood watch groups who were looking for her brother.
As Donald Trump seeks the presidency for a second term, those looking to keep him from the ballot are employing a different sort of tactic: the 14th Amendment.

The argument centers on the the amendments third section, a Civil War-era addition that bars individuals from running for any office, civil or military, under the United States if they have previously engaged in insurrection or rebellion.

Some argue Trumps alleged role in the Jan. 6 attack on the U.S. Capitol meets those standards for disqualification.

Robert Davis, a serial Michigan litigator known for filing suits against state politicians, is asking Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson to not list Trump  facing four criminal cases relating to the 2020 election, including one out of Washington, D.C. where he faces four possible felonies for his actions between Election Day and Jan. 6, 2021  on Michigans primary or general election ballots because he allegedly violated the amendment.

Legal experts, including William Baude and Michael Stokes Paulsen  law professors at the University of Chicago and University of St. Thomas School of Law in Minneapolis, respectively  argue in a recent publication the 14th Amendment, disqualifies former President Donald Trump, and potentially many others, because of their participation in the attempted overthrow of the 2020 presidential election.

Paulsen declined to be interviewed for purposes of this article, instead pointing to the piece he and Baude penned for the University of Pennsylvania Law Review.

Despite its long slumber, Section Three of the Fourteenth Amendment is alive and in force. It remains fully legally operative. ... Disqualifying candidates and official(s) from office is not something to be done lightly, but Section Three was not enacted lightly, the pair wrote. Section Three remains part of our Constitution, part of our nations fundamental law. If we honor the Constitution, we must honor Section Three of the Fourteenth Amendment.

Retired conservative judge J. Michael Luttig and Laurence Tribe, a constitutional law professor at Harvard University, have arrived at similar conclusions.

The two, like Baude and Paulsen, argue this moment in American history is explicitly what section three of the 14th Amendment was made to prevent: Someone with ties to an insurrection again returning to a state of power.

The people who wrote the Fourteenth Amendment were not fools, Tribe said in an interview on CNN in August. They realized that if those people who tried to overturn the country, who tried to get rid of our peaceful transitions of power are again put in power, that would be the end of the nation, the end of Democracy.

There is pushback, however, from other legal minds who note Trump has never formally been charged with insurrection or rebellion.

Noah Feldman, a professor of law at Harvard, additionally noted in an Aug. 20 opinion piece that even if local officials were prepared to bar Trump, they would be ill advised to do so as a matter of constitutional law, given the U.S. Supreme Court as a whole has never directly interpreted Section Three of the 14th Amendment.

It is unclear whether Davis of Highland Park has officially submitted the request, and staff for the Department of State did not respond in time for publication when asked whether they had received the documentation. An effort to reach Davis was not successful.

The Detroit Metro Times reports Davis is arguing Trumps actions on Jan. 6, coupled with repeated efforts to overturn the election in multiple states and financial support for those charged in the Capitol riot, should bar him from appearing on the ballot.

But whether hell have much luck is unclear, said Steven Liedel, an attorney with the Dykema law firm in Lansing.

Liedel  whose firm specializes in matters of election law, among other things  said there are a handful of issues Davis ask may encounter, to say nothing of the fact Benson is not legally obligated to even respond to the request.

One of the first questions I have is: Whats the process in the law? Its not clear, Liedel said. I know what the Secretary of State generally does, but whats that process? Is there a statutory provision that the Secretary of States office relies upon  for its Bureau of Elections, when preparing ballots  to deny access to someone who doesnt meet the statutory or constitutional qualifications for an office? ... And then the second question is: When does it apply?

Additional issues arise with timing, he said. Trump isnt a candidate for president yet, but a candidate to be a party nominee. He questioned whether this could even keep Trump off the ballot at all, considering it would not bar him from running as a write-in.

Speaking with the Capitol outlet MIRS for the MIRS Monday Podcast, Benson indicated she saw valid legal arguments being made with respect to the issue, but said it was far too soon to really assess the likelihood of that because a lot of the facts ... evidence, and the legal analysis  that all of that would have to be rooted in  has still yet to be played out.

That, too, is another issue: whether the Republican Party will even nominate Trump as their 2024 candidate of choice.

Though current polling puts Trump leagues ahead of his other Republican opponents, there are still months before the first primary and time yet for Michigan to finalize its ballots.

Perhaps the Republican Party chooses to nominate someone else, in which case, there is no issue, Liedel said. Removing him from the primary ballot may not be an option because he may not actually be a candidate for president. It might be premature.
Enormous fires on Hawaiis Maui killed more than 100 people  the deadliest wildfire in the United States in more than a century. Tropical Storm Hilary caused mudslides and catastrophic flooding in California and Nevada.

A triple-digit heat wave is killing people in Texas and Louisiana. Firefighters in Canada are facing the nations worst fire season on record. And now seven tornadoes wreaked havoc across Michigan in one night, killing five and injuring more.

All of this happened within the last three weeks. And its no coincidence  its climate change.

Climate science experts said the barrage of frequent news about natural disasters across the U.S. and Canada in recent weeks is just the beginning. The impacts of climate change are growing increasingly noticeable, and that can be expected to continue.

I would say that more people are being impacted and are experiencing the direct effects of some of these events and also, the severity of these events is much stronger, said Sue Ann Bell, an assistant professor at the University of Michigan and a disaster preparedness expert.

The U-M researcher said climate disasters may seem rare now, but they might not be considered so rare going forward.

The impacts of climate change have been known for some time. And so, what were experiencing is what scientists have been talking about for essentially decades now, Bell said. We are seeing this now.

Related: Timeline: 7 tornadoes whipped across Michigan in less than 3 hours

Recent weeks brought a string of shocking and record-setting disasters to the United States that experts have at least partly attributed to the effects of climate change: rising temperatures, drought, super-charged storms, and torrential rainfall.

For example, it was bare electrical wires and leaning utility poles that ignited the deadly fires on tropical Maui, but it was climate change-fueled flash drought conditions which led to the historic devastation.

Its leading to these unpredictable or unforeseen combinations that were seeing right now and that are fueling this extreme fire weather, said Kelsey Copes-Gerbitz, a postdoctoral researcher at the University of British Columbias faculty of forestry.

What these  catastrophic wildfire disasters are revealing is that nowhere is immune to the issue, she told the Associated Press.

On the other end of the spectrum, Tropical Storm Hilary dumped record rainfall over the normally arid deserts of Southern California and the Sierra Nevada, including in the stark Death Valley which experienced its single-rainiest day on record on Aug. 20.

Hot water and hot air were both crucial factors that enabled the storms rapid growth, steering it on an unusual but not quite unprecedented path that dropped rain in some normally bone-dry places.

In Michigan, seven tornadoes in a single night brought down trees, ripped away roofs, and overturned semis. The National Weather Service said it was the most tornadoes to cut through Michigan in a single day during the month of August  another record.

Experts argue this cacophony of climate disaster news can be expected to not only continue, but also change how pervasive climate anxiety becomes in peoples lives. Its no longer a concept, but a real-world challenge.

I think climate anxiety when the term first came out used to be something that we thought about in terms of this long-term feeling of anxiety about where the planet as a whole is going, Bell said.

I think more and more that the idea of climate anxiety is about, Will I be able to get insurance on my house? Is my house going to flood? Am I going to be without power for an extended period of time and perhaps not be able to power my medical devices that require electricity?

Researchers at Yale University are studying climate anxiety among Americans, finding an estimated 27% say they are very worried about climate change.

Bell said she advocates for people to put together emergency preparedness kits and make plans with family, friends, and neighbors for what to do should disaster strike. She also argued that community disaster plans should prioritize the needs of those with daily health needs, such as older adults, those who are pregnant, young children and those with chronic health conditions.

The Michigan Region of American Red Cross urges residents to prepare for worsening weather-related events, such as the Aug. 24 string of tornadoes across the southern part of the state.

As the frequency and intensity of weather-related events grow, more people need help more often, said Mary Lynn Foster, regional top executive officer for the Michigan Region of the national nonprofit known for its disaster response efforts.

Yet, as quickly as our volunteers are working to help, the needs are escalating faster. Thats why its critical to not only prepare yourself for risks like severe storms and flooding in Michigan, but to also help families in need  both in our region and in other parts of the country, she said in a statement.

The United States experienced a record $15 billion in disasters in the first half of this year alone, according to the American Red Cross.

Build an emergency kit, make a plan

An effective emergency kit should contain food, water, and other supplies to last at least three days for each family member. That includes medications, copies of important documents, and special items for children and pets.

Families should also make an emergency plan, according to the American Red Cross.

That means planning what to do in case family members are separated during an emergency, or what to do if evacuated from an area. Plans should be coordinated among childrens schools, family members workplaces, and with community emergency plans. Its also important to include pets in emergency plans.

The Associated Press contributed to this article.

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Weve seen this weather scenario before, with many of our recent Septembers having a hot spell. It looks like our next hot spell is on track to take over our weather next week.

I know youve heard about the intensely hot dome of air in the central and southern Plains over the past month. Michigan has been in a northwesterly upper-air flow, which has kept the really hot air out. During the holiday weekend, the cool situation is going to change. The extended forecast shows hot weather will stick around for a while here in Michigan.

Here are the six-to-10 day and eight-to-14 day temperature forecasts. Its really apparent we have a very high chance of much warmer than normal temperatures.

Michigan has an 80% chance of warmer than normal weather next week. Also notice its not just a small area of warmer than normal weather. Most of the country will be warmer than normal.

Temperature anomaly probability forecast for September 3 to September 7

The days to Sept. 11 also have at least a 70% chance of warmer than normal temperatures.

Temperature probability forecast for September 5 to September 11

Just what is normal in early September? Just below are the long-term historical average high temperatures for Sept. 7. If we had average weather in early September, we would have afternoon warmth in the mid-to-upper 70s.

Long-term average high temperatures for September 7

What does that mean for an actual afternoon temperature? Here is the high temperature forecast for Sept. 7. Look for temperatures in the 90s some days in that hot stretch and certainly in the 80s for the other days. Northern Michigan will be hot for this time of year, with many days warming into the 80s.

High temperature forecast for September 7, 2023

It looks like its going to be dry during this coming hot stretch. The rain forecasts out to Sept. 11 call for a fairly high chance that it will be drier than normal.

Precipitation amount probability forecast for September 3 to September 7

Precipitation amount probability forecast for September 5 to September 11

This hot spell will last through next week, but not forever. We are going to be well into September which is a time when cold fronts from Canada race through Michigan. Id say by late next week we will have temperatures dropping back down to the 70s and 80s.


AAoM has built a world-class team of experienced advocates and professionals to support people on the autism spectrum and identify pathways and bring light to the challenges they face.

AAoM held a back-to-school event at Corner Health in Ypsilanti on Aug. 16.

Tisa Johnson-Hooper, M.D.

Kids must be up to date on pediatric appointments, developmental screenings, and routine vaccinations.

AAoM has built a world-class team of experienced advocates and professionals to support people on the autism spectrum.

Any Michigander in the autism community who needs help accessing information and resources can count on the Autism Alliance of Michigan for help.
News / National

by Staff reporter

A family feud has erupted after a Zanu-PF candidate who was running for Member of Parliament in Lupane East Constituency accused her sister-in-law who was a Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) polling agent of de-campaigning her, leading to her loss in the election.Phathisiwe Ncube Machangu got 6,241 votes and lost the election to a CCC member Bright Vanya Moyo who got 6,476.In an interview, the CCC agent Bongani Ndlovu said her aunt now blames her for her loss."I was a CCC agent in ward 18, ward centre Makhovula, my aunt wanted to be a Member of Parliament under ZANU-PF, so she lost and now blames me for de-campaigning her. She said she would look for people to make me disappear," said Ndlovu.Ndlovusaid some people actually came looking for her yesterday but she was not at home."I went to report the matter to the police."Ndlovu also claimed that her brother-in-law, Mkhululi Ncube, who is a police officer also called her asking why she was a CCC agent when the family supports ZANU-PF."But this ZANU-PF found us already under CCC, and this aunt didn't come to us seeking our support. I am now living in fear, my aunt doesn't even stay here she is based in Bulawayo, she came here for her campaign. She now blames me for her loss as if I am the one who told the whole of Lupane East not to vote for her," she said.Contacted for a comment, Ncube dismissed the issue as a small misunderstanding."There is just a small misunderstanding, She is our daughter-in-law, so I guess she is just making up a story. The issue is that she was a CCC agent whilst the aunt was campaigning for ZANU-PF, that is the story, She must not feel threatened it's a family matter," said Ncube.
An Accra High Court sitting on the injunction against the Musicians Union of Ghana (MUSIGA) elections which was scheduled for August 8, 2023, has dismissed the case.

His Lordship Charles Gyamfi Danquah, in his ruling, struck out both the motion for injunction and the substantive case calling for the union to render its accounts before the elections.

Justice Gyamfi Danquah also awarded damages of GH10,000.00 against the plaintiffs, Doe Nyamadi and Fred Van Dyk.

When the case was called yesterday, the plaintiffs, through their counsel, informed the court of their decision to withdraw the case and seek an amicable solution to the matter.

However, counsel for MUSIGA, Lawyer Nanabanyin Ackon, argued that considering the negative effect that the action by the plaintiffs has had on the elections, the court must award damages against them despite their intention to discontinue the case.

This is the fifth time that litigants have dragged MUSIGA to court, thereby delaying an election that should have taken place in 2020.

From all indications, with this court case dispatched of, the union is now set to hold its elections and proceed to its long overdue biennial conference.

The last conference was in Cape Coast in 2018.
The Womens Wing of the National Democratic Congress in South Africa has donated sanitary pads to two institutions in Nsawam Adoagyiri Constituency.

The beneficiary institutions were the Eye of God Orphanage Home (which received the assorted food items) and the Prince Boateng Memorial School (which received the sanitary pads) all of Aburi in the Eastern Region.

During the presentation ceremony, Sunday 27th August, 2023, Madam Wilbertina Buxton, NDC SA Chapter Women Organiser presented the items for and on behalf of the SA NDC Women Chapter.

Madam Buxton, speaking at the event said, "I'm honoured to represent NDC SA Chapter Women's Wing and we want to thank the Almighty God for the opportunity to interact with you and contribute our quota to your well-being so as to enhance your education."

According to her, the month of August is Women's Month in South Africa and as such they do something for the deprived ones in Ghana.

"Our presence here is in line with our project that were embarking on both in SA and Ghana", she explained, adding "We are happy to make a donation of sanitary pads to female students of this school who need them."

She averred that being women and mothers themselves, they are aware of this critical need most young girls go through, especially in rural Ghana. "It has come to our notice that many young girls in educational institutions are unable to adopt the appropriate material and hygienic conditions during their menses. This may be because they don't have access to sanitary pads on a timely basis," Madam Buxton revealed.

She however, underscored the fact that the use of alternative materials to replace sanitary pads with its associated unhygienic conditions and discomfort would no doubt hinder the young girls' ability to concentrate on their studies.

"It is in this vein that the Womens Wing of NDC SA Chapter wants to support you by supplying you with these sanitary pads and we promise to do same every three to six months", she promised, adding, "We believe that it will add up to what you have and give you comfort and peace of mind to pursue your studies in these times when the education of the girl child is at the centre of national development worldwide," she indicated.

She took the opportunity to encourage the students to take their studies seriously so that they can take advantage of the opportunities education offers women. "We want to assure you it's not going to be a one-off thing, but in every three to six months we would be here to donate sanitary pads," she assured the beneficiaries.

In her concluding remarks, the NDC South African Chapter team leader said, on behalf of the NDC SA chapter they appreciate the Headmaster, the entire teaching staff and students for the warm reception given them. "As I said earlier we look forward to seeing you again in the very near future," Madam Buxton said.

The Heads of the Eye of God Orphanage Home and the Prince Boateng Memorial School showed their appreciation by thanking the NDC SA Women's Wing for their kind gesture towards the girls of their respective institutions.

The NDC SA Women's Wing was accompanied by Hon. Alex Segbefia, Director of International Affairs of the NDC, Lucy Bobison, SA NDC Deputy Treasurer and Isaac Kwami Penni, SA NDC Deputy General Secretary.

The rest were the NDC National Deputy Women Organizer, Abigail Elorm Mensah, aspiring NDC Parliamentary candidate for Nsawam Adoagyiri Constituency, Hon. Philibert Selorm Fummey, Women Organizer for Nsawan Adoagyiri, Akua Oduraa Gyekye and Ablekuma West Constituency Women Organiser, Mrs. Vicentia Banini.
The Monchengladbach District Court pronounces a two-and-a-half-year verdict today against the former pastor and leader of the Community of Congregations in Huckelhoven.

The clergyman is accused and prosecuted of commercial embezzlement and money laundering in dozens of cases.

The former head of the community of churches in Huckelhoven is charged before the Monchengladbach District Court.

In total, the now 60-year-old is said to have withdrawn around 100,000 Euros from parish accounts.

In court, the former priest had made a comprehensive confession a few days ago.

According to this, he had been contacted by a Nigerian priest who had asked for financial support for social projects. I made transfers for various projects out of a mixture of naivety and imprudent action," the defendant explained in court.

Defendant: Probably became a victim of fraud himself

In his confession, the ex-pastor emphasized that the donation requests had apparently been fakes. He had become a victim of fraud himself and had regularly transferred sums of money from the donation and collection accounts of the (German town) Huckelhoven parishes abroad since 2016.

He had made a mistake and did not want to enrich himself, the priest explained. "I only became aware of the dimension of the problem when the accusation of money laundering arose," he said.

Priest with high debts of his own, but apparently the priest also wanted to improve his own financial situation. The 60-year-old has debts of around 200,000 euros. He admitted after repeated inquiries of the district court and the public prosecutor's office that he wanted to balance his debts.

Mild punishment expected after confession based on his confession, the accused could get away with a comparatively mild punishment. The public prosecutor's office has demanded a prison sentence of two and a half years and the confiscation of a so-called value replacement amounting to 98,000 euros.

For a time, the former priest was in pre-trial detention but has since been released. Even if he is convicted, he is likely to leave the courtroom a free man.

The priest is no stranger to justice

In August 2020, he was arrested in Belgium, at the Brussels' Zaventem Airport. He had three kilograms of heroin in his luggage. He had to serve a prison sentence in Belgium before being extradited to Germany at the beginning of this year.
The three-decade conflict in the eastern region of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has led to the proliferation of hundreds of armed groups . With the violence appearing to take an ethnic slant , several groups have emerged claiming to be protecting their communities from attacks. One such group is the Twirwaneho, which has become more active since 2019. Christopher P. Davey, who has extensively studied the drivers of conflict in eastern DRC, explains how the Twirwaneho's claim of communal self-defence highlights the fractured nature of Congolese politics.

What is the conflict in the DRC all about?

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has been a theatre of increasingly violent conflict since the Rwandan genocide of 1994 pushed over a million refugees across the common border. Rwanda's efforts to capture those responsible for the genocide sparked two wars in two wars . Violence, driven by armed groups, has been persistent since.

Central to Congo's politics is a broken relationship between the seat of government in Kinshasa, the underrepresented social and economic groups in the eastern region, and external parties. Added to this mix are transnational armed groups, foreign militaries, the UN peacekeeping mission and Congolese state actors like the military.

This has resulted in the world's longest-standing refugee crisis . It has also led to the proliferation and fragmentation of dozens of armed groups in the eastern region.

One of these groups is the Twirwaneho, a Banyamulenge  or South Kivu-based Congolese Tutsi  self-defence/armed group.

This group is important to understand because its rising profile demonstrates the unending nature of Congo's war .

Who are the Twirwaneho?

The Banyamulenge are a minority group in South Kivu, eastern DRC, who have faced attacks based on their ethnicity . Formed in the early 2010s, Twirwaneho (meaning let's defend ourselves in the Banyamulenge language) is a contemporary response by mutinying national army officers to continued conflict and local self-defence needs within the Banyamulenge community.

Read more: The Banyamulenge: how a minority ethnic group in the DRC became the target of rebels  and its own government

The overlap between self-defence and armed groups is not unique to the DRC. My research on the history of Banyamulenge soldiers shows that the gumino (let's stay here) self-defence tradition was part the Rwandan Patriotic Front's international campaign in the late 1980s. It was used to raise funds and recruit for the Rwandan civil war (1990-1994).

This led to a generation of fighters trained by the Rwandan Patriotic Front who got into the ranks of various armed groups across both Congo wars.

These groups include Twirwaneho. Its leader is Michel  Makanika  Rukunda, who was once in the Congolese national army before he mutinied in 2019. He transformed Twirwaneho militias into a militarily coordinated, and internationally represented and funded, fighting force. But he is also accused of human rights violations that have placed him on the European Union sanctions list .

The Twirwaneho's direct role in national politics is minimal. However, the group has become a symbol of defiance for both the community it claims to defend and those who see Tutsis as foreign invaders . Also, a report from the UN group of experts on the DRC hints towards collaboration between Twirwaneho and the Rwanda-supported M23 .

Is the group keeping the peace or fuelling conflict?

The Twirwaneho claim that neighbouring armed groups and the national army make up a coalition launching counterattacks on Banyamulenge villages. This is in reprisal for Twirwaneho operations against the military and other armed groups and connected populations.

My research shows that the Twirwaneho are related to, but distinct within, an array of armed groups in DRC engaged in a complex political, economic and at times existential struggle.

During Nairobi fieldwork, to understand more about the international side of the movement I met three young former rebels who had fled the Twirwaneho. They joined the group after their schools closed following increased local conflict. Graduating from students to soldiers, they fought this anti-Twirwaneho coalition. Echoing his community's sentiment, one former Twirwaneho officer told me they are not an armed group. He emphasised this point:

 I was seeing myself as a civilian who decided to come and protect my community.

Inherent in the Twirwaneho's fight are claims of stopping a Tutsi genocide in the DRC, also made by the M23 . However, increased fighting across North and South Kivu has exacerbated violence against all civilians .

What's behind the group's rising profile?

Makanika as the emerging leader of the group has instilled discipline and patriotism. In my fieldwork I heard consistent claims of insufficient promotion and pay for Banyamulenge soldiers in the national army and persecution of their people. These claims became reasons for joining, along with a narrowing of options for traditional livelihoods .

As command centred under Makanika, his diaspora reputation grew. Many Banyamulenge in the US and African Great Lakes region credit him with preserving the community. Young Banyamulenge men have left families and careers to join the Twirwaneho. The group recruits school children, pressures community members to join and draws on existing self-defence groups.

Coordinated by the Mahoro Peace Association , the Banyamulenge diaspora has contributed hundreds of thousands of US dollars to displaced families in South Kivu . This is not an uncommon practice across other groups in the country.

The peace association asserts it does not actively raise money for Twirwaneho, but its leadership advocates for fighting to reclaim the homeland. This implicitly encourages support.

Many Banyamulenge do not consider any funds sent as support for an armed group. Rather, it is seen as mobilisation for the survival of the community.

What's the end game?

What the Twirwaneho want is a complex question. Their social media posts broadcast goals of Banyamulenge peace and security in Congo. Yet, violence in the DRC is not a simple ethnic conflict . Although many Banyamulenge support the group, they are divided on how its goals are to be accomplished.

It is easy to see how a diaspora is willing to support the survival of their community. However, armed groups typically result in continued violence and military competition: rebels fight for material gains that do not translate into increased security for civilians.

This piece was written in collaboration with researchers at the Conflict and Human Security Research Group (GEC-SH/CERUKI).

Christopher P. Davey is affiliated with Clark University and Education for Global Peace, and works for Binghamton University SUNY.

By Christopher P. Davey, Charles E. Scheidt Visiting Assistant Professor of Genocide Studies and Prevention, Clark University
28.08.2023 LISTEN

The Deputy Minister of Finance, Abena Osei Asare has expressed confidence in the promise made by President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo some years ago that Alan John Kwadwo Kyerematen will succeed him as the leader of the New Patriotic Party (NPP).

According to Osei Asare, historical antecedents within the party support the idea that such predictions by its leaders tend to come to fruition.

Speaking to journalists in Koforidua, Osei Asare pointed out that the party had a history of recognizing and rewarding long-standing service and leadership.

She said, In our party, there is historical antecedent that when the leader blesses you as the next leader it comes to pass.

Former President Kufuor told Akufo-Addo to be patient because after him he will be the next leader and indeed it came to pass because we reward long service."

"President Akufo-Addo also told Alan to continue serving in the party that after him he(Alan) is the next to lead. So on November 4, that is what we delegates are going to stand on to vote for Alan Kyerematen, the Deputy Finance Minister said confidently.

However, Osei Asare's confidence in Alan Kyerematen's candidacy follows discussions by political analysts who are questioning his (Alan) chances in the NPP's flagbearer race due to his performance in the super delegates conference.

Alan Kyerematen's recent third-place finish in the super delegates conference held on August 26, 2023, has led some analysts to doubt his chances of securing the party's top post.

In the super delegates conference, Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia secured the top position, receiving 68.15% of the votes, followed by Assin Central MP Kennedy Agyapong with 14.30%. Alan Kyerematen trailed in third place with 10.29% of the votes.

Dismissing the significance of these results, Osei Asare argued that the outcome of the super delegates election cannot accurately represent the sentiments of the party's grassroots members.

She indicated that the majority of party members were rallying behind Alan Kyerematen, viewing the super delegates conference as a mere formality.

"What the majority of members of the party are saying is that this is just like justifying your inclusion," Osei Asare explained.

"The over 200,000 delegates clamoring for Alan Kyerematen are eager for this process to end for the real deal. The grassroots are those crying for Alan John Kwadwo Kyerematen to lead the party," she added.
Ethiopian Airlines will from October 29, service Accras Kotoka International Airport with 14 flights per week and has subsequently announced the schedule for its double daily flights.

The Addis Ababa-based airlines schedule copied to AviationGhana.com shows that the Accra market will be serviced with a combination of Boeing 737, 767, 787, 777, and Airbus 359 (A350-900).

ETs double daily flights will see it become the single largest foreign carrier servicing Accra, Ghana when the airline adds three (3) more scheduled flights to its existing 11 weekly flights between Addis Ababa and Accra, Ghana. Essentially the airline will operate seven afternoon flights, and seven evening/early morning flights.

The increase in flight frequency will also allow the airline to provide more travel options to passengers onboard sister airline, ASKY Airlines, which seeks to connect flights in Accra to various destinations in the world.

Thus far, we have witnessed that our customers are pleased and enjoying these additional connectivity options. We are now augmenting that with three (3) more flights to bring our total weekly flights to 14. Our Ghanaian travellers will enjoy double daily connections from Accra to our more than 135 global destinations, including Gatwick, which will be rejoining our network as of November 21, 2023. With the increase in frequency, Ethiopian Airlines once again reaffirms its commitment to serve Ghana, Mrs. Aniley Eshetu, Area Manager of Ethiopian Airlines-Ghana, Liberia Sierra Leonetold Aviationghana.com.

African aviation expert, Sean Mendis, believes that this indicates a strong trust in the Ghanaian travel market by airlines and a further endorsement that the West African country is doing something right.

It [increase in frequency by BA and ET] is a huge vote of confidence for the Ghana market. In the case of ET, it makes Accra their only station in West Africa which is fed by all three of their main hub banks in Addis Ababa. That shows Accra is feeding a wide range of ET destinations and they are confident that it will continue to grow, Mr. Mendis said.
Founder of the now-defunct United Progressive Party (UPP), Akwasi Addai Odike, says he feels vindicated following the destoolment of four chiefs by the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, over various breaches.

In August 2022, Odike was banished from Kumasi by the Ashanti Traditional Council due to comments he made alleging the involvement or condoning of illegal mining activities by some chiefs.

In an exclusive interview with Citi News, Odike affirmed that the recent actions taken by the Otumfuo validate his previous remarks.

Today, Otumfuo Osei Tutus actions buttress my initial assertion that it is the chiefs who are being used to destroy our environment through land degradation and water pollution. And at that time they misconstrued my claims but when Otumfuo came from his visit he has destooled some of his chiefs because of their direct involvement in galamsey activities. Now the truth always stands and whenever you hear Odike talking, it is about the truth. It is about the security of this nation, it is about the future of our people.

Of course, I feel vindicated, and I am happy because they nearly killed me in my office in Kumasi, and it was all over, CNN captured everything. And today if I were to be in my grave it is exactly one year but the almighty God who always fought for goodness sent unseen forces to protect me. You see the leadership of this country is not only political, and religious leadership. Political leadership and the chieftaincy leadership have failed this country.

If not all of them are involved in these nefarious activities and bedevilling this country, they have sat aloof and unconcerned for criminals in this country to operate hence the kind of suffering were experiencing.

He emphasized that he owes no one an apology and asserted his intention to make a triumphant entry into Kumasi in the upcoming days.

His purpose is to campaign for votes ahead of the 2024 general elections as leader of the Union Government, a movement he intends to launch after the Electoral Commission banned his party.

-Citi Newsroom
Supporters of Albert Ondo Ossa, main rival to incumbent Ali Bongo Ondimba in Gabon's presidential election, on Monday urged the head of state to concede defeat and organise a handover, saying their man had won.

The Alternance 23 opposition platform has swung behind Ondo Ossa, seeking to deny Bongo, 64, and the scion of a family that has ruled for 55 years, a third term.

Saturday saw the authorities cut internet access and impose a nighttime curfew as voting drew to a close in the oil-rich central African state of some 2.5 million people.

That prompted opposition supporters and Ondo Ossa, an economics professor chosen as a joint candidate by Alternance 23, to denounce the election a "fraud orchestrated by Ali Bongo and his supporters" and demand the challenger be declared the winner.

"We call on our compatriots who gravitate around those in power (who are) more devoid of legitimacy than ever, particularly those around Mr. Ali Bongo Ondimba" to "bow humbly to the will of the Gabonese people," Ondo Ossa's campaign manager Mike Jocktane told a press conference in Libreville.

"What is now expected of Mr. Ali Bongo Ondimba is that he accepts the sovereign choice of the Gabonese people, that he respects it and that he organises, without bloodshed, the transfer of power to Professor Albert Ondo Ossa," said Jocktane, insisting a partial count had Ondo Ossa clearly ahead.

Gabon. By Jean-Michel CORNU (AFP)

Gabonese law forbids any publication of partial results pending the final result which only the Centre Gabonais des Elections (CGE), the body that organises the polls, is allowed by law to publish.

Communications Minister Rodrigue Mboumba Bissawou had Saturday insisted the internet was cut to "counter the spread of calls for violence... and false information", amid a spate of opposition claims that Ondo Ossa's name was missing from ballot papers in some polling stations.

The CGE has several times refused to indicate to AFP how the count is progressing or when the release of official results may be expected.

The internet remained off late Monday while the police and the military had for a second night installed barriers throughout the capital to ensure the curfew is respected.

As well as electing a president, Gabon's 850,000 voters were also choosing candidates for the legislature and local councils.

Opposition parties beforehand denounced a late change to voting rules in the legislative race under which any vote for a local deputy would automatically also be for that deputy's presidential candidate, noting this could hamper Ondo Ossa as he is not backed by any single party.

Earlier Monday, French media outlets RFI and France 24 expressed "incomprehension" after their operations in Gabon were banned after authorities accused them of "a lack of objectivity and balance... in connection with the current general elections".
29.08.2023 LISTEN

The scholarship secretariat has refuted claims of Special Needs Students of the University of Ghana (UG), Legon concerning scholarships.

The students have accused the secretariat of neglect and non-payment of scholarships.

However, the scholarship secretariat has described those claims as false and misrepresentation of facts.

The secretariat indicated that the issues were brought to its attention only two weeks ago.

It added that it was during a meeting with leadership when it was indicated to them that the Secretariat had not received any application in respect of their claims for the past three (3) years.

According to the secretariat, the government has been consistent in the payment of students' scholarships after verification.

It explains that bursaries to target applicants are processed for payment on receipt of claims from beneficiary institutions and students with special needs also benefit in the form of tuition fees, bursaries and purchase of learning aids.

The statement assured students of payment after vetting.

Below is the press release:

RE: UG STUDENTS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS DEMAND REMOVAL OF REGISTRAR AT SCHOLARSHIPS SECRETARIAT

The attention of the Secretariat has been drawn to a publication purported to emanate from the University of Ghana students with special needs and wish to comment as follows;

Government has at all times, supported persons with special needs at the tertiary level of education. Government through the Scholarships Secretariat has provided financial assistance to students with special needs in the form of payment of tuition fees, bursaries and purchase of learning aids.

Bursaries to target applicants are processed for payment on receipt of claims from beneficiary institutions.

At the last meeting with leadership of students with special needs at the conference room of the Secretariat, two weeks ago, it was indicated that the Secretariat had not received any application in respect of their claims for the past three (3) years.

Having received bursary applications two weeks ago, the Secretariat is by this circular giving the assurance that, claims are being vetted and payment will be made in due course.

Thank you.

SIGNED

MANAGEMENT

Cc:

University of Ghana Students with Special Needs
Education has always been the bedrock of societal progress. However, in places like the Bawku West District of Ghana's Upper East Region, numerous challenges have historically impeded optimal teaching and learning conditions.

It's heartening to see entities like The Peoples Foundation for Health and Education Development taking significant steps to change this narrative.

On Friday, August 25, The Peoples Foundation, under the compassionate leadership of Dr. Simon Batamya Aseno, donated 150 dual desks to selected schools within the Bawku West District. This magnanimous act signifies more than just material support; it represents hope for 300 schoolchildren who previously had to learn in uncomfortable conditions, sitting on the floor or lying on their bellies. This donation is in addition to other health and education projects spearheaded by the foundation.

From the United States, Dr. Aseno shared his sentiments, thanking Mr. Paul Rizza for his invaluable contribution to the cause. He also acknowledged the Keystone Rotary Club for its role in the fundraising process. Born and raised in Zebilla, a town in the district, Dr. Aseno's deep-rooted connection to Bawku West propels his commitment to uplift the educational facilities in the area.

The effect of this substantial donation was immediately evident in the enthusiastic responses from various school representatives and educators in the district. Mr. Paul Apanga, the director of the St. Maximillian Kolbe Education Complex, expressed his profound gratitude. Reflecting on the subpar learning conditions under trees, he optimistically remarked on the enhanced teaching and learning prospects this donation promises.

Mr. Abanga Julius Asigri, representing the Ghana Education Service, emphasized the recurring furniture shortage that plagues many schools in the Bawku West District. He urged the schools benefiting from this act of kindness to ensure they maintain the donated furniture.

Further affirmations came from Ms. Blessing Abare, co-founder of the foundation and Director of Education Programs, who lauded the contractor's efficiency in delivering quality work in record time. Representing the foundation, Mr. Edward Azure, reiterated the importance of the proper utilization of these resources.

The following schools in the Bawku West District were beneficiaries of this initiative:

1. Agatuse Junior High School: 15 desks

2. Galaka Junior High School: 15 desks

3. Aniego Junior High School: 10 desks

4. Zebilla Primary School No. 1: 15 desks

5. Azanga Junior High School: 15 desks

6. Lamboya Junior High School: 10 desks

7. Bugore Primary School: 15 desks

8. Kansogo Junior High School: 15 desks

9. Biringu Junior High School: 10 desks

The foundation also provided support to three private schools in the area for their invaluable contributions to the advancement and improvement of education in the area. Each private school received 10 dual desks.

The Peoples Foundation for Health and Education Development's efforts have sown the seeds of transformative change in the Bawku West District's educational scene. Through collaborations and dedicated interventions like these, the future indeed looks promising for the students of the district.
News / National

by Simbarashe Sithole

President of the African Christian Council International (ACCI), Archbishop Johannes Ndanga has endorsed the just ended Presidential elections saying allegations of rigging by Advocate Nelson Chamisa, the leader of the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) are false.Speaking to journalist in Harare, on Monday, ACCI Grand President Archbishop Johannes Ndanga said the voting process was transparent though Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) failed to field agents in some polling stations in Chirumanzi-Zibagwe constituency."The ACCI noted that most polling stations had representatives from most competing political parties and the various law enforcement agencies. In some instances, the Zimbabwe Republic Police deployed senior officers to polling stations. " At each polling station, polling agents would sign V11 forms which was a summation of verified results of the voting process. However, a case to note is on Chirumanzi-Zibagwe Constituency, in the Midlands province where the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) failed to assign polling agents at Huchu Primary School, Simon Muzenda Primary School, Sebakwe Game Park Tent, Moffat Primary School and at Musena Clinic, " Ndanga said.The ACCI also exonerated discredited FAZ from voter manipulation while accusing other civic organizations of interfering with electoral processes."The ACCI also engaged Forever Associates Zimbabwe which was accused of voter intimidation. This was not verified in areas that we covered as their activities were being done 300 meters away from polling stations."The ACCI noted reported incidents of interference from the Non-profit organization (NPOs) who were involved in activities of collating reports from certain political parties."This was tantamount to electioneering and subversion of Zimbabwe's democratic processes," added the ACCI boss. It said the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) had  logistical challenges in availing enough ballot papers on time resulting in some polling stations opening late
The Judicial Service Staff Association of Ghana (JUSAG) has condemned the violent invasion of the Tamale District Court premises by some residents of Tamale earlier Monday, August 28.

Describing the attack as "barbaric" and "unlawful", JUSAG in a press release said some unscrupulous elements trooped the court in their numbers and pelted stones, destroying fixtures and injuring a police officer.

This per media reports led to an exchange of gunfire by the police to disperse the irate youth.

In no uncertain terms, JUSAG unreservedly condemns the barbaric act of the miscreants. We also wish to commend the Ghana Police Service for their swift intervention with reinforcement that saved the properties and lives of the Magistrates, Court Officials, Lawyers, Litigants and other court users during the sad event, the release said in part.

It is reported that about 13 suspects have been arrested so far with police efforts underway to apprehend other culprits who managed to escape.

Whilst we send our well wishes to the injured police officer and other innocent victims, we wish to call on the Ghana Police Service to deal decisively with the thirteen (13) suspects arrested during the event in accordance with the law whilst efforts are made to apprehend the other suspects on the run, the association urged.

JUSAG also called for heightened security at the court to ensure safety before justice administration resumes.

The association advised that the general public be reminded that the judiciary exists for all citizens, and that justice is administered in accordance with the law irrespective of the persons involved."

JUSAG further called on chiefs, religious and political leaders to support the judiciary and security services to maintain law and order.

It further noted that Investigations are underway to establish the circumstances leading to the attack as efforts continue to apprehend the culprits.
President Nana Akufo-Addo has given assurances to a delegation from the W.E.B. Du Bois Foundation, confirming his administration's commitment to finalizing an agreement that will facilitate the redevelopment of the Du Bois Centre in Cantonment, Accra.

This pledge was made during a courtesy visit by the Executive Director of the W.E.B. Du Bois Foundation, Japhet Aryiku, and his delegation to the Jubilee House on Monday, August 28, 2023.

The purpose of the meeting was to discuss the revitalisation of the Du Bois Centre into a world-class museum complex. However, challenges have arisen in solidifying the necessary deal for the redevelopment initiative to commence.

Japhet Aryiku highlighted that the Du Bois Foundation, along with its partners, has ambitious plans for transforming the center, yet they have encountered difficulties in securing the required funding due to the absence of official documentation confirming their right to develop the W.E.B. Du Bois Centre.

In response, President Akufo-Addo recognised the global significance of W.E.B. Du Bois, who remains an iconic figure across the Atlantic Ocean.

He emphasised Ghana's distinct privilege as the sole African country intrinsically linked to Du Bois's profound life and legacy. The President pointed out that the distinguished scholar and activist is interred in Ghana, signifying an indelible connection between the country and his heritage.

President Akufo-Addo underscored the irrevocable ties that bind Ghana to W.E.B. Du Bois's enduring legacy.

He affirmed that Ghana plays an integral role in perpetuating his ideas, history, and influence. Furthermore, the President stressed the mutually beneficial nature of collaborating to achieve the goals set forth by the W.E.B. Du Bois Foundation.

Highlighting the significance of Du Bois's decision to make Ghana his final resting place, President Akufo-Addo expressed unwavering commitment to working hand in hand with the Du Bois Foundation to achieve their shared objectives. This partnership aims to honor Du Bois's profound impact and contributions to history, while also preserving and promoting his legacy for generations to come.

-Classfmonline
The newly appointed Head of the Civil Service, Dr Aggrey-Darkoh, has called for continuous collaboration and support from Chief Directors and Heads of Departments for the progress of the service.

He made the call at a breakfast meeting last Friday in Accra to formally introduce himself to the Chief Directors and Heads of Departments.

Dr Aggrey-Darkoh emphasized the need for collaboration to elevate the service's role in driving state development.

One tree cannot make a forest, if we want to put the service to the pedestal that will continue to function as an institution that will reinforce the development of the state, a collective effort will be necessary, he added.

On his part, the departing Head of Civil Service, Nana Kwasi Agyakum-Dwamena, expressed gratitude to the Chief Directors and Heads of Department for their support and collaboration throughout his nine-year tenure as the Head of Civil Service.

He urged Dr Aggrey-Darkoh to consider the Chief Directors, Heads of Department and the entire Civil Service employees as a coherent family.
President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has launched Phase II of the Planting for Food and Jobs (PFJ) programme at the University for Development Studies in Tamale.

The programme, which is targeted at building on the successes of the initial programme, is a five-year plan for the transformation of Ghanas agriculture with a focus on modernisation through the development of a selected commodity value chain with active private sector participation.

Speaking at the launch, President Akufo-Addo said the second phase, by design, takes a holistic view and places greater emphasis on value chain approaches by focusing on strengthening linkages between actors along eleven selected agricultural commodity value chains broadly categorised into grains, roots and tuber, vegetables and poultry.

Phase II of the Programme, the President added, also seeks to improve service delivery to maximise impact and substitutes direct input subsidy with smart agricultural financial support in the form of comprehensive input credit, with provision for in-kind payment.

He explained that key elements of the new phase would also include an input credit system that would provide farmers with access to inputs such as seeds, fertilisers and pesticides and other support services to improve productivity, as well as, storage infrastructure and distribution of produce to reduce post-harvest losses.

Moreover, the programme includes off-taker arrangements/commodity trading to improve farmer access to markets which guarantees fair prices for crops and a digitised platform for management, monitoring and coordination to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the programme.

The impact of the programme is expected to be in the area of job creation, with some 1.2 million farmers to be enrolled in the first year.

In the next four years, the programme is destined to record an annual average of 210,000 new farm-related jobs. This will exclude other jobs along the agricultural value chains estimated at an annual average of four hundred and twenty thousand over the same period, President Akufo-Addo said.

On Wednesday, 19th April 2017, President Akufo-Addo launched the maiden Planting for Food and Jobs programme at Goaso in the Ahafo region as part of the governments key initiative to modernise agriculture, improve production efficiency, achieve food security and profitability for our farmers.

It targeted a significant increase in agricultural productivity and pursued a value-addition strategy, aimed at rapidly ramping up agro-processing and developing new and stable markets.

The successful implementation of the first phase, according to the President, has resulted in reaching over 2.7 million farmers and other value chain actors under the five modules.

It has also achieved a relatively stable food security environment with food self-sufficiency in major food staples such as maize, cassava and yam and an increased agricultural sector growth rate from 2.7% in 2016 to an average of 6.3% from 2017 to 2021.

As a result, President Akufo-Addo said the government has been able to achieve the annual target of 6% of sector growth, set under the Malabo Declaration to which Ghana is a signatory, increased fertilizer application rate from 8 kg/ha in 2016 to 25 kg/ha in 2022.

Also, there has been an increase in the distribution of certified seeds from 2,000 metric tons in 2016 to 36,000 metric tons in 2022 and an increased private sector investment in the seed industry.

The President disclosed that A recent Summit, organised by the United Nations on the need to build country food systems in September 2021 in New York and at the AU Dakar II Summit in January 2022, underscored the need to review the strategies for delivering solutions to challenges in the agricultural sector.

As such it is praise-worthy that Ghana has responded to the call to action at both Summits by rolling out the Second Phase of the PFJ Programme.

I continue to give you my pledge that farmers, food crop farmers, fish farmers and livestock farmers will all have the support and respect they deserve from my government. We need to raise agriculture to a higher plane to be able to improve the quality of life for our people, he assured.
The Minister for Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Mr Stephen Asamoah Boateng, has urged the Eck worshipers (Eckankar) to make an effort to imbibe their values in the younger generation so they do not drift from the right path.

He said this at the 2023 Eck African Soul Adventure Seminar last Friday in Accra.

He noted that religious bodies ought to adopt the current structures available to reach out to their members, stating that most religious bodies are inculcating online fellowship in their activities to reach out to all members and non-members, hence, the need to take advantage of that.

Mr Asamoah Boateng said just like the spiritual leaders, every politician is a shepherd looking after Gods people, therefore, spiritual leaders need to also guide the politicians as they guide Gods people.

According to him, human beings were becoming spiritually poor because they only thought about physical growth and ignored spiritual growth and the purpose for which they were placed on this earth.

On his part, the President of Eckankar Ghana, Aspect Caiquo said Ghana was excited to host all African countries for the African seminar, adding that there were a lot of teachings outlined for the seminar and children were not left out.
The government has delivered 200 Rapid Intervention Vehicles (RIV) to strengthen the Ghana National Fire Service.

The Deputy Minister for the Interior, Madam Naana Eyiah, disclosed this at the launch of the 2023 Fire Safety Week Celebration at GNFS in Accra, which coincides with the 60th Anniversary of the Service under the theme, 60 Years of Existence: Fire Safety, The Choice for A Safer Environment.

The Fire Safety Week is held annually to raise awareness of the dangers of fire to lives and properties and the need to prevent fire outbreaks.

Madam Eyiah said despite some success the GNFS has made in spreading fire safety awareness, the expected rate of observance and compliance with fire safety practices is low and does not adequately reflect the time and efforts put forth by the hard-working officers to help reduce the frequency of fire outbreaks in the nation.

The Deputy Minister was, therefore, happy that the Service expanded its communication channels to all accessible platforms to communicate fire safety messages to the public, including the use of social media platforms.
Sudan's army chief travelled Tuesday to Egypt on his first trip abroad since the outbreak of war in April, with the latest violence killing dozens of civilians in battle-scarred Darfur.

As Abdel Fattah al-Burhan departed, medics and witnesses said 39 civilians were killed, most of them women and children, in shelling of Nyala, Sudan's second city in South Darfur state where fighting between the army and paramilitary forces has intensified.

The Sudanese general was to hold talks with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, a key ally, on the developments in war-ravaged Sudan and bilateral ties, Sudan's ruling Sovereign Council said.

Burhan, dressed in civilian clothes rather his trademark military fatigues, was seen boarding a plane in Port Sudan and later being greeted by Sisi on the tarmac at El Alamein airport in videos released by the council.

The war between Burhan and his former deputy turned rival Mohamed Hamdan Daglo, who commands the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), has raged since April 15.

It has spread from Khartoum and the western region of Darfur to Kordofan and Jazira state, killing thousands and forcing millions to flee their homes.

For months, the RSF had besieged Burhan inside military headquarters in Khartoum, but last week the army chief made his first public foray outside the compound to review troops in parts of the country.

On Monday he was in Port Sudan where he made a fiery address to troops, vowing to fight the RSF who he branded mercenaries to "end the rebellion".

"We are mobilising everywhere to defeat this rebellion, defeat this treason, by these mercenaries who come from all over the world," Burhan told cheering troops.

"There is no time for discussion now. We are concentrating all our efforts on the war, to put an end to the rebellion," he said.

His comments came a day after Daglo released a statement detailing a 10-point "vision" to end the war and build "a new state".

The plan calls for "civilian rule based on democratic norms" and "a single, professional, national military institution" -- the very sticking point which turned the former allies into rivals.

New Darfur violence

Fighting in Nyala on Tuesday killed at least 39 civilians when shelling hit their homes, witnesses and a medical source said.

"The entire members of five families were killed in a single day," said Gouja Ahmed, a human rights activist originally from Nyala.

Images posted online showed dozens of bodies on the ground covered in shrouds as well as men placing the dead in a large grave.

Darfur has long been the site of deadly fighting since a war that erupted in 2003 and saw the feared Janjaweed -- precursors of the RSF -- unleashed on ethnic minority rebels.

Since August 11 more than 50,000 people have fled Nyala due to the violence, the United Nations says.

On Monday Burhan reviewed troops in Port Sudan and delivered a defiant speech vowing to end the "rebellion" by paramilitaries led by his rival and former deputy Mohamed Hamdan Daglo. By - (AFP)

Port Sudan, which has been spared the violence tearing apart Sudan, is where government officials and the UN have relocated operations. It is also the site of Sudan's only functioning airport.

Before they fell out, Burhan, backed by Daglo, became Sudan's de facto ruler in a 2021 coup that derailed a fragile transition to civilian rule.

The coup upended a transition painstakingly negotiated between military and civilian leaders following the 2019 ouster of longtime autocrat Omar al-Bashir.

Burhan's latest trip follows multiple diplomatic efforts to broker an end to the violence in Sudan, with a series of US- and Saudi-brokered ceasefires being systematically violated.

In July, Egypt, which shares borders with Sudan and has been flooded by refugees from its neighbour, hosted a crisis meeting attended by African leaders to seek a solution.

Conservative estimates from the Armed Conflict Location & Event Data project show that nearly 5,000 people have been killed in the conflict.

But the real figure is thought to be much higher, and the United Nations says more than 4.6 million people have been displaced by the fighting both inside and outside Sudan.
Director of Elections for the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Dr. Edward Omane Boamah has taken a swipe at the New Patriotic Party (NPP) over its alleged attempt to rig election 2024.

Months ago, an audio tape surfaced allegedly containing voices of police officials and former NPP chairman Bugri Nabu planning to oust IGP Dr. George Akuffo Dampare over claims he would not allow NPP rig election 2024.

The news which led to many questioning the integrity of Ghana's electoral systems compelled the Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin to set up a committee to investigate the matter many find disturbing and a blow to the country's democracy.

During his appearance on Monday, August 28, Mr. Bugri Naabu, former Northern Regional NPP chairman told the committee that his interest in the alleged plot against IGP Dampare was to gather information and pass it to the President for action to be taken to protect his party.

"Mr Chairman, my only interest was when they were telling me about the IGP, what he does and how he can jeopardize the works of the President. I wanted to gather the information and make sure I pass it to the President," Mr Naabu stated.

"My main interest was to protect the party," he explained to the committee, chaired by MP Samuel Atta Akyea.

In reaction, Mr. Boama said the NPP was joking to think they could secure victory with the appointment of a partisan Inspector General of Police (IGP).

NPP must be joking if they think they can appoint a partisan IGP to save their interests in the 2024 elections. The recorder & the leaker have spilt the beans, he wrote in a tweet on Tuesday, August 29.
A political scientist at the University of Ghana, Legon, Dr. Kwame Asah-Asante has argued that Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia still has a lot of work to do if he wants to become flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP).

The Vice President over the weekend came first at the end of the Super Delegates Conference of the party.

Despite winning the polls with almost 70%, Dr. Kwame Asah-Asante is of the view that it does not in any way mean Dr. Bawumia will win the NPP primaries on November 4.

According to him, anything can happen in the main primaries.

What we have seen is okay for the first step but you cannot rest on it to conclude that the status quo will remain. Youll be surprised because they are expanding the electoral body bringing in all manner of people who will change the dynamics.

So I believe that we are not going to have the same situation. Anything can happen. That is a fact, Dr. Kwame Asah-Asante said in an interview with Joy News.

Vice President Dr. Bawumia remains the favourite for the flagbearer position of the NPP.

He faces competition from Assin Central MP Kennedy Agyapong, former Trade Minister Alan Kyerematen, and former Minister for Food and Agriculture, Dr. Owusu Akoto Afriyie.
Former President John Dramani Mahama has said the next National Democratic Congress (NDC) administration will make life difficult for corrupt government employees.

According to Mr. Mahama, his administration will do all it can to protect the public purse.

In a tweet, he said, Government procurement is recognized as a major source of corruption and misappropriation of public funds.

We will, among other measures, set up an Independent Value for Money office to scrutinise all government procurements/projects above a $5 million threshold or as shall be recommended by Parliament, John Dramani Mahama stated.

Earlier, Mahama called on Parliament and other relevant bodies to review portions of the procurement laws that would provide a quota for local manufacturing industries to flourish.

He said the current situation, where bidding and the tender systems were based on high capital injection was inimical to local companies and job creation in general.

Ghana's Public Procurement Act 663 established the Public Procurement Authority (PPA) in 2003 as a corporate body responsible for the formulation of policies and guidelines in the field.

The PPA is also in charge of developing procurement professionals and creating a strong public procurement system that promotes confidence within the business community.

Public procurement in Ghana is undergoing a complete overhaul, all in a bid to increase transparency and reduce the likelihood of corruption.
BBC Scoops The Newsreader Season 2

Australian breakout drama The Newsreader is returning to the BBC in the UK after striking a deal with distributor eOne. The series, starring Anna Torv (The Last of Us, Mindhunter) and Sam Reid (Prime Suspect 1973, Lambs of God) follows a lives of pair of news presenters in the late 1980s, who are established as the Golden Couple of News following season one, and crew of their News at Six program. However, with a new CEO taking charge of the show, Australia preparing to celebrate its bicentennial year and both anchors figuring out what they want from life, the truth about their success is more complex than it appears. The Michael Lucas-created show is for the ABC in Australia, and its second run will launch on BBC2 and BBC iPlayer in the UK in fall. Werner Film Productions makes the show in association with eOne.

More from Deadline

Dutch Drama Anonymous To Return

Tense Dutch thriller Anonymous is back for a second season. The NPO show follows a pair of crime fighters who take justice into their own hands and relentlessly battle the criminal underworld  despite not knowing about each other. One is a public prosecutor (Anniek Pheifer) fighting the Cabo criminal gang, while the other is a history teacher (Jeroen Spitzenberger) who masquerades as Anonymous. The first season reached an average of 1 million via TV and streaming in the Netherlands, with Banijay Rights selling the show internationally. The shows Banijay Benelux-owned producer NL Film is behind the likes of Prime Videos Modern Love and feature film Costa.

Story continues

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President Akufo-Addo has urged recently appointed High Court Justices, as well as all Superior Courts of Judicature justices in Ghana, to address delays in case adjudication.

During the swearing-in ceremony of the new judges at Jubilee House on August 28, 2023, the president expressed concern that prolonged litigation tarnishes Ghana's reputation as an attractive investment destination.

"I urge you to be sensitive to undue delays that project the image of Ghana as a destination where litigation takes too long", the president said, adding: "This affects the attractiveness of the country as an investment destination".

He encouraged judges to embrace modern technology for faster case resolution, highlighting the importance of the e-justice system launched in 2021.

"I encourage both of you to take full advantage of the e-justice system in order to expedite the conduct of cases that come before you and enhance the management of cases before the court", Akufo-Addo said.

"Judges are advised to be interested in technological innovations that assist with better delivery of justice and efficient management of cases before them. The transparent and efficient delivery of justice builds confidence in citizens, businesses, and the investor community", he added.

President Akufo-Addo emphasised that technological innovation enhances justice delivery and boosts confidence among citizens, businesses, and potential investors.

Justice Mrs. Dorothy Ayodele Kingsley-Nyinah, representing herself and her colleague Justice Mrs. Ama Sefenya Ayittey, conveyed their gratitude to the President, Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo, and the Judicial Council for their appointments.

They pledged their dedication to upholding legal principles such as fairness, impartiality, and adherence to the rule of law. Justice Kingsley-Nyinah acknowledged the challenges ahead but expressed confidence in overcoming them through a steadfast commitment to justice and the support of fellow colleagues and stakeholders.

Source: Classfmonline.com
First Lady of the Republic, Her Excellency Rebecca Akufo-Addo has appealed to all Ghanaians to join the fight against gender-based violence in the country.

Following the launch of the Organization of African First Ladies for Development (OAFLAD) in Accra on Monday, August 28, Mrs. Akufo-Addo stressed the need for a collaborative effort to make gender equality a reality in a tweet on Tuesday.

"This campaign aims to accelerate gender equality in Africa, through advocacy by member states. I call on everyone, especially policy makers to help ensure gender is truly a crosscutting theme that runs through strategies and programmes to give women and girls equal access to health, education and skills and to live free from gender-based violence," she said.

Mrs. Akufo-Addo thanked the government officials, UNFPA representatives, social media influencers, media houses and other attendees for demonstrating their commitment to the cause.

"I thank the ministers of state, directors of state agencies, UNFPA reps, social media influencers, media houses, and all who came for their show of commitment to this course," she stated.

The OAFLAD Unifying Campaign for Gender Equality is being held under the theme #WeAreEqual. Working together, our society can be too.

It seeks to mobilize action across the continent to promote women's empowerment and eradicate discrimination.

Gender-based violence remains a major human rights violation affecting millions of women and girls globally.

Ghana has made progress in protecting women's rights, but societal attitudes and gaps in the law continue to put women at risk of violence.
The Central Tongu District in the Volta Region of Ghana, like many other areas worldwide, has its share of challenges. Amidst these, some individuals continually inspire hope, bringing light during dark times.

One such individual is Evelyn Agbese, a beacon of hope for young Persons Living with Disabilities (PLWDs), women, children, and the vulnerable in her community.

The critical subject of dealing with Persons Living with Disabilities (PLWDs) is often neglected in Ghana. UNICEF reports that over 5 million Ghanaians have a form of disability, with the majority being children and the youth. These PLWDs often face numerous challenges, including lack of access to quality healthcare, education, and facing social stigmatization and discrimination.

Evelyn Agbese, a resilient advocate for PLWDs, has centered her mission around changing this narrative. This dynamic woman is breathing new life of optimism into the lives of PLWDs, the vulnerable including women, and children in the Central Tongu District.

She established the non-governmental, non-partisan, and non-denominational Mama Lynn Charity Foundation in 2012 with the goal of giving children, adults, and people with disabilities (PLWDs), as well as the weak in the neighbourhood and beyond, a new sense of hope.

The organization seeks to empower women, children, and the vulnerable in an inclusive participation in development through training and promoting guidance and counseling, psychosocial counseling, women's advocacy, pre- and post-marital counseling, community development programs, as well as clinical and drug counseling in the community and beyond.

Prior to establishing Mama Lynn Foundation, Evelyn has volunteered with a number of leading womens and girls rights advocacy organizations, including the Women in Law and Development for Africa (WiLDAF) Ghana and the Planned Parenthood Association (PPAG), including serving as the Coordinator of Global Women Development Promoters (GLOWDEP).

She is a marriage and psychosocial counselor and an early childhood teacher in the Central Tongu District. Aside from that, she works as an Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADRS) practitioner and an educator.

Over the past decade, she has relentlessly worked on programs that assist PLWDs, women, children, and the vulnerable in society. Evelyn's initiatives extend to support education programs, livelihood enhancement projects, and initiatives to check gender-based violence.

She has launched several community projects to support the marginalized, with remarkable success.

One of her initiatives, 'Hope For The People'  has brought hope and confidence back to 150 orphans, including victims of adolescent pregnancy, rape, the hopeless, and the stigmatized in the Central Tongu District and beyond, just to mention a few.

Through her tireless advocacy work, support came through for a 6-year-old girl child (PLWD) to access an orthopaedic medical surgery to correct a deformity with her legs, one of her key achievements that she prides herself on. This intervention became a reality with the support of Sustainable Development Alliance (SusDa-gh), an NGO backed by the Central Tongu District Assembly.

Acknowledging the hardships PLWDs often encounter in getting access to wheelchairs, she assisted by mobilizing support for twenty (20) persons living with disabilities in the community to be provided with wheel chairs to aid their easy locomotion and convenience.

This gesture became possible through the support of three NGOs, including the Henry Djaba Memorial Foundation-Accra, SusDa-gh and Global Women Development Promoters (GLOWDEP), with the support of the Central Tongu District.

Under the messiah's ' Hope For The People', Evelyn and her able team of volunteers embarked on monitoring activities and conducted engagements, including sensitizing various schools in the Central Tongu District on issues relating to human rights, gender, sexual, and reproductive health rights.

Beyond empowering PLWDs, Evelyn is strongly committed to promoting women's rights and championing the cause to end violence against women and children. She has also been instrumental as a staunch advocate for womens and girls rights in providing counseling and psychosocial support to victims of teenage pregnancy and raped girls in the community and beyond with the support of WiLDAF Ghana and GLOWDEP among others.

She established the Women's Empowerment Program, which offers food and clothing to 20 widows and six visually challenged children (orphans) in the Central, South, and North Tongu Districts, respectively. By enhancing their means of subsistence through microcredit programs and business training, it further empowers women.

Utilizing local radio to educate the public, especially women and young girls, about their rights and responsibilities with regard to their sexual and reproductive health, family laws, and marriage is another crucial strategy used by the Mama Lynn Foundation to change minds and transform Central Tongu.

The Foundation currently intends to carry out the following actions in the course of its responsibilities in order to effect the necessary change:

Organize sensitization programs both at a venue and on radio in the three Tongu Districts and parts of the Volta Region.

Support some young ones with school uniforms in most of the schools within the Central Tongu District.

Organize talk shows to sensitize the community folks particularly the youth on violence, drug abuse, discrimination etc. in the communities and

Engage in a charity drive to raise funds and donate some items to support widows, orphans and some other vulnerable persons within the district.

Evelyn Agbese, the founder and CEO of the Mama Lynn Foundation, is pleading for help on the grounds that achieving the aforementioned objectives would require aid from donors, well-meaning individuals, charitable organizations, institutions, NGOs, and CSOs, as well as the government. She can be reached via email at [email protected] .

Evelyn's efforts and dedication to improving the lives of PLWDs, women, and children are a monument to the incredible capacity of people to overcome hardship and inspire optimism.

Her commitment was recently recognized as a sign of excellence when the prestigious Central Tongu Excellence Awards named her as one of the five outstanding women of the Central Tongu District in honor of women's virtue on this year's International Women's Day.

She never lets her physical constraints stand in the way of her pursuit of societal improvements, inspiring others with her evident spirit of perseverance.

In essence, Evelyn Agbese is a shining example of how individuals can ignite change despite life's adversities. Her selfless service towards PLWDs, women, and children in the Central Tongu District brings a ray of hope. She turns the hardships and challenges she faces into a force of good, inspiring us all to play our part in creating a more inclusive society.

We can all learn from Evelyn's determination, resilience, and her desire to bring change in society. If hope truly resides in the human spirit, Evelyn Agbese's story is surely proof that the flame of hope burns bright, even in the darkest corners.
On Monday, August 28, the Revolutionary National Youth League of the ruling Coalition for Democratic Change leveraged a robust door-to-door campaign approach in Montserrado County ahead of its September 7 official campaign launch.

The initiative, led by erudite Youth Chairman Emmanuel Mulbah Johnson alias Neto and executive batch mates, commenced in electoral District #4 early Monday morning, with the aim to engage with voters on a personal level, sway voters' perceptions, raise awareness about the impending elections, and provide voter education to the communities and electorates ahead of the polls in October.

Campaign volunteers including first-time voters were deployed to visit households in various zones, remotest communities, and blocks, discuss President George Weahs achievements and party policies, and distribute campaign materials. This strategy facilitated mutual interactions between the party leaders and residents, fostering a sense of personalized connection and trust.

Meanwhile, door-to-door political campaigns globally play a crucial role in reshaping voters opinions and mobilizing support from voters. As the CDC Youth League actively engaged with residents in District #4 through personalized Organizing for Action effort also termed as door-to-door interactions, they were able to establish rapport, understand the needs of the communities, and effectively convey the campaign's message. This personal touch helped to build trust and credibility between leaders of the party and residents of the communities.

In an effort to gauge public sentiment, brief interviews were conducted with residents of District #4 and the findings suggested a mixed reception of the President's working. Positive feedback centered on the President's initiatives for economic development and social welfare, such as infrastructure improvements, healthcare and educational policy reforms. However, some constituents expressed concerns with certain policy decisions and responsiveness to local needs. This variation in perceptions highlights the significance of how different issues resonate with different segments of the population.

Despite the mixed opinions on the President's working, the outcome of the outreach indicates that the ruling party's door-to-door campaign has positively influenced the electorates perception. By engaging directly with voters and addressing their concerns, the party managed to enhance its image and resonate with the electorates. This personal touch with the people has translated into increased support for the Coalition for Democratic Change ahead of the impending elections.

The Youth League used everyday language to ensure its campaign message was easily understood by all. Chairman Neto during the campaign interaction also debunked various myths and misconceptions related to President Weahs performance, thereby promoting accurate knowledge within the district.

Furthermore, the statistical door-to-door data gathered in District #4, in combination with outcome of interviews conducted, suggests a resounding ONE-ROUND victory for President Weah and the CDC. As the governments working reflects a great impact on undecided voters, the door-to-door campaign has successfully energized the party's support base moving forward.

In love and struggle, CDC continues the fight on behalf of the Liberian people. Power to the people, power at the polls!

By: Alpha G. Gray
A French special forces soldier was killed during an anti-terrorist operation in Iraq, President Emmanuel Macron's office announced on Tuesday. It's the third French death in Operation Chammal this month.

Sergeant Nicolas Mazier, an air force paratrooper, "died in combat while carrying out his mission", the Elysee presidential palace said in a statement.

Macron expressed his condolences to Mazier's loved ones and colleagues in a message posted on the platform X, formerly known as Twitter.

Sergeant Nicolas Mazier was fighting for France, for our security. Fallen in Iraq, the whole nation mourns him, said Macron.

Macron offered "sincere condolences to his family and loved ones and assure[d] them of the Nation's solidarity in these painful circumstances".

He also expressed "his support to the men and women of his unit and in particular to Sergeant Mazier's comrades wounded at his side".

An Iraqi security source in the northern city of Kirkuk said a joint operation by Iraqi counter-terror troops and French special forces stationed at the K1 base in Kirkuk was ambushed" by Islamic State (IS) group militants, according to French news agency AFP.

In a battle lasting "more than five hours", an unknown number of French troops as well as three members of Iraq's anti-terrorist forces were wounded, the source added.

Determination

Mazier is the third French soldier to be killed in Iraq in recent days.

French military trainer Nicolas Latourte was "fatally injured on the sidelines of a training mission for urban combat", alongside Iraqi troops, the French military said in a statement, without giving further details about the circumstances of the death.

A senior Iraqi military source told AFP on condition of anonymity that Latourte had been working with Kurdish forces in northern Iraq, and had died from a bullet wound sustained "as he was cleaning his weapon".

Prior to this, Sergeant Baptiste Gauchot died in a road accident on 18 August.

Around 600 French troops are deployed in the region as part of Operation Chammal, the French military operation in Iraq and Syria against the IS group.

Macron saluted the courage of the French soldiers and "reaffirmed the determination of France in its fight against terrorism alongside Iraq".

(with AFP)
29.08.2023 LISTEN

An advocacy group affiliated to the ruling New Patriotic Party, Bawumia for Ghana (BAWUGHA) has demonstrated its excitement over the commanding victory of Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia in the party's super delegates elections last Saturday.

In a statement signed by the National program coordinator of the group, Mr. Emmanuel Mensah said the victory testified to the high chances of the Vice President in the upcoming 2024 general elections.

The election results, unveiled earlier this week, not only reflect Dr. Bawumia's resounding success but also signify a significant stride towards his aspiration of becoming the next President of Ghana, he stated.

According to him, the ability of the Vice President to bridge economic theory with pragmatic implementation has earned him admiration within the governing party and Ghanaians at large.

Mr. Emmanuel appealed to the party base and Ghanaians to rally behind Dr. Bawumia's aspiration to lead the nation as its next president.

Read the full Press Statement Below.:

For Immediate Release

BAWUMIA FOR GHANA (BAWUGHA) CELEBRATES DR. BAWUMIA's TRIUMPH IN NPP's SPECIAL DELEGATES ELECTION

In an electrifying turn of events, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia last Saturday emerged victorious in the New Patriotic Party's Special Delegates Election, and the Bawumia for Ghana Fun Club (BAWUGHA) is jubilantly celebrating his remarkable achievement.

The election results, unveiled earlier this week, not only reflect Dr. Bawumia's resounding success but also signify a significant stride towards his aspiration of becoming the next President of Ghana.

The Fun Club, a staunch advocate for his candidacy, lauds this victory as a testament to his leadership qualities and unwavering commitment to national progress.

Outshining a field of seasoned politicians and prominent party members, Dr. Bawumia secured an impressive 629 votes out of the total valid votes cast.

This landslide victory not only showcases his popularity within the New Patriotic Party (NPP) but also underscores the faith that party members have in his ability to lead the nation towards a brighter future.

Bawumia for Ghana (BAWUGHA), passionately supports his bid to become Ghana's next President.

Our fervent backing is grounded in Dr. Bawumia's extensive record of public service and his unwavering dedication to uplifting the lives of Ghanaians.

As the Vice President of Ghana, his visionary economic policies, such as the "One District, One Factory" initiative and the "Planting for Food and Jobs" program, have catalyzed job creation and economic growth.

Moreover, his resolute commitment to digital transformation has ushered in modernization across various sectors, propelling Ghana into a future driven by technology and innovation.

Members of Bawumia for Ghana Fun Club, extend heartfelt congratulations to Dr Bawumia on this well-earned victory.His ability to bridge economic theory with pragmatic implementation has earned him admiration not just within the NPP but among Ghanaians from all walks of life.

Ghanaians are encouraged to rally behind Dr. Bawumia's aspiration to lead the nation as its next President.

The Bawumia for Ghana Fun Club fervently appeals to the citizenry to vote massively for him in the forthcoming general elections.

His track record of excellence, dedication to progress, and innovative policies make him a deserving candidate to guide Ghana into a brighter future.

Thank you

Signed

Emmanuel Mensah

(BAWUGHA National Program Coordinator)
President Adama Barrow has yesterday conferred on Major Abdoulaye Camara the insignia of the Commander of the Order of the Republic of The Gambia for his outstanding role serving the country as detachment commander of ECOMIG at State House and Principal Protection Officer to the president since 2017.

In an emotional tone, President Barrow expressed admiration for Major Camara, who he said had served him and The Gambia with honour. He said it was a difficult moment for him to bid him farewell, reflecting on their first encounter during the political impasse.

My heart is heavy today. Major Camara is like a son to me, and what he did for The Gambia will never be forgotten. I and my family will dearly miss him, President Barrow said.

The President went on to say that the good that one does always manifests itself. He encouraged and prayed for Major Camara to excel in his future endeavours.

According to the citation read by Secretary to Cabinet Alieu Njie, Major Camara had selflessly served The Gambia and promoted harmony between the ECOMIG contingent and the Gambia security service. He also demonstrated a high level of professionalism and instilled service values in his team with the highest standard of integrity and respect.

In his vote of thanks, Major Camara commended the president for creating a conducive environment for him to serve. He said he greatly admired and had also learned a lot from him. He equally thanked the security services of the Gambia for the smooth cooperation throughout his service.

The event was attended by cabinet ministers, senior government officials, the Senegalese Ambassador to The Gambia, the ECOWAS Head of Mission and members of the Ecomig forces.
29.08.2023 LISTEN

The ongoing Commission of Inquiry into the Local Government Councils is making quite interesting revelations of fraud and blatant mal-administration within the councils, which also seems to be a reflection of what obtains in the administration in general.

However, while it would be unfair to heap all the blame of the widespread fraud and mal-administration that had been the hallmark of the local government councils on the Barrow administration because it had been the norm for quite a long time, but as this administration came to power more than seven years ago with the promise to reform the system and bring some fiscal sanity within the administration, from what we are hearing from the commissions proceedings, the situation seems to have gotten worse since 2017. There is however no doubt that the situation in the councils is a microcosm of the entire administration, which seems to be a clear manifestation of the level of corruption prevailing within the system.

From what we have heard so far, apart from the councils themselves being the bedrock of corruption and mal-administration, the other institutions that have come out quite poorly from the inquiry had been the Ministry of Lands and Regional Governments, the so-called independent Local Government Service Commission and of course, the Gambia Public Procurement Authority (GPPA), which seems to come out the worse.

The Ministry, instead of effectively playing its role as the policy arm of the local councils, was not only trying to directly micro-manage them, but it had also been usurping the role and powers of the Local Government Service Commission, thus making that commission quite irrelevant and ineffective.

With regards to the GPPA, the proceedings have revealed that it is a toothless bulldog which lacks the will and stamina to enforce its own rules and regulations. Therefore, it was not surprising that the local councils virtually disregarded all the GPPA regulations and continued to do their own thing, knowing fully well that there would be no consequences.

However, while it was quite obvious that the initial objective of setting up the commission was to expose the endemic corruption alleged to have been prevalent in the area councils and municipalities, controlled mainly by the opposition United Democratic Party, no doubt to adversely affect them during the local government elections, but it seems to have had a boomerang effect on the central government itself. We have so far seen that only the government institutions and those individuals directly employed and posted by the central government to the councils had been the ones involved in the alleged corruption. So far, it appears that the elected officials have not directly featured in the blatant fraud and mal-administration.

However, it would be hard to see how long the mayors and chairpersons would be completely exonerated from the blatant mal-administration clearly evident in the management of the various councils when they were supposed to have been in charge of policy direction and administration of their councils.

The Commissions revelations are a clear indication that there is an urgent need to reform the Local Government Act and address the present untenable situation that exists within the councils where the elected officials have absolutely no control over the staff appointed by the central government. Obviously, if the mayors/chairpersons, who are supposed to be the chief executives of the councils have no hand in the recruitment and control of the senior staff of their councils, then there cannot be any effective administration and accountability. Therefore, there appears to be a need for more devolution of power from the central government to the local councils and give them more control over matters pertaining to their areas of competence.

Presently, the councils are denied control of areas and things that should have been directly under their purview and other state institutions have instead been allowed to usurp most of those powers and responsibilities that should have been exercised by the councils. A good case in point is a recent decision by the National Roads Authority (NRA) to arbitrarily cut down trees along the Serekunda/Banjul Highway without consultations with the KMC, in whose jurisdiction that area is, and in contrast with the efforts of the Council to beautify the place by planting flowers and trees along the highway, which is also in complete contravention of the provisions of the Gambia Environmental Action Plan (GEAP).

It is quite sad that instead of complementing each other, the central government and the local councils seem to be competing for control of the scarce resources at their disposal, which is certainly not in the interest of the people that they both claim to serve. It would have made quite a lot of sense if President Adama Barrow held a meeting with the elected mayors/chairpersons immediately after the mayoral elections so that they would discuss areas of cooperation between the two tiers of governance, rather than continuing to treat each other as adversaries. As the head of state, we expect President Barrow to initiate such a meeting, and there is no doubt that the mayors/chairpersons would respond quite positively.
A magistrate court in the Central River Region has sentenced three women to a fine of Dalasis 15,000 equivalent to $ 246.51 each in default to serve one year in prison for circumcising eight children.

The children were between the ages of 4 months and 1 year, campaign group Gamcoptrap said in a statement.

It said the case is the first verdict for the crime of FGM since the enactment of the law prohibiting the practice in 2015.

According to the group, the trio are Mba Yasin Fatty the circumciser, Nano Jawla and Kaddijatou Jallow mothers of the circumcised children. They were reportedly caught circumcising the children in the village of Niani Bakadagi-Mandinka CRR North.

This is a testament that The Gambia is committed to applying the law when the matter is brought before the courts and we appreciate the efforts made by the government and the Maribantang Chambers for ensuring that justice is done to protect the girl-child and end FGM in The Gambia.

"While this is progress in the application of the law, a lot needs to be done to end FGM in The Gambia, Gamcotrap said.

The group urged all actors who are receiving funds from partners in the fight against FGM to be committed to the cause.

It must be realised that the affected circumciser [ Mba Yasin Fatty] broke the law banning FGM and oath she made in 2013 not to circumcise anymore. She was trained by Gamcotrap and was among the batch of circumcisers who swore to abandon the practice in 2013 among the 30 circumcisers during the 4th Dropping of the knife Ceremony in Wassu.

She was given a bakery and her son was trained to operate it as an alternative employment opportunity to abandon the knife and was given extra resources to address the challenge she was having in the bakery business. In a recent joint monitoring visit by UNFPA, NPC, and implementing partners she informed the team that there was no circumcision in her community, Gamcotrap said.

Reacting to the verdict, renowned anti-FGM campaigner and head of Gamcotrap Dr Isatou Touray, twitted: Huge congratulations to Gamcotrap for their victory in securing a landmark conviction of violators of the Womens Act 2010, which criminalised FGM in The Gambia! As a committed activist, I remain steadfast in my commitment to ensure this law is applied. Lets all join hands with our partners to protect girls from this harmful practice by enforcing the law.
The actions and statements of International Monetary Fund (IMF) representatives and US Ambassador in Ghana have triggered a wave of concerns, alleging a disregard for Ghana's sovereignty, cultural values and economic stability.

A press release issued by The Dignified African Institute (TDAI) and endorsed by its Communications Director, Okatasi Mut Djeriwo (PhD), has shed light on the growing uneasiness among Ghanaians and has questioned the motives behind these diplomatic actions.

The group said: "We have observed with sourness, the utter and incessant disregard, subversion and toying with the will and sovereignty of Ghanaians on two fronts: the IMF's subtle and overt manipulation in aiding Ghanaian governments to destroy our economy" and "the US Ambassador's despicable speech and undiplomatic blackmail to destroy our humanity, cultural, moral, spiritual and religious values with the dastard LGBTQI+".

Released on August 30, 2023, the statement underscores the historical wisdom embedded in African heritage, emphasising the reverence for nature and spirituality that have long characterised the continent's cultural ethos.

The release takes aim at the conduct of foreign representatives within Ghana, invoking these deeply rooted cultural values to critique their activities.

TDAI has articulated the ancient insights of African ancestors, who recognised the cyclical nature of existence and perceived divinity in all aspects of creation.

The statement contends that these spiritual beliefs historically nurtured a sense of communal responsibility and accountability, rendering the need for conventional incarceration systems unnecessary.

By highlighting the historical injustices stemming from colonisation and the exploitation of indigenous knowledge systems, the release points to recent events such as alleged IMF manipulations and the ongoing LGBTQ+ discourse in Ghana.

The statement accuses the IMF of employing both covert and overt tactics in supporting Ghanaian governments, which TDAI contends have contributed to economic instability and hardship.

Moreover, TDAI questions the legitimacy of the IMF's authority to intervene and calls for greater transparency regarding the organisation's intentions in Ghana, particularly in light of its exoneration of the Ghanaian government's actions.

On the issue of LGBTQ+ rights, TDAI spotlights the involvement of the US Ambassador in a discourse that clashes with the views held by Ghana's Parliament, religious institutions, and societal norms.

TDAI raises suspicions about the Ambassador's intentions, suggesting possible ulterior motives, including the potential distribution of aid packaged under the pretext of humanitarian assistance.

As a result, TDAI has called on both the IMF and the US Ambassador to demonstrate respect for Ghana's citizens, values, and sovereignty.

The organisation has also emphasised the aspirations of the Ghanaian populace for economic progress, tranquility, and the preservation of cultural heritage.

The press release strongly emphasises that Ghana should be treated as a sovereign entity, with foreign entities expected to uphold its integrity.

Source: classfmonline.com
Thousands of coastal-dwelling Floridians were racing inland on Tuesday as the state braces for a direct hit from Hurricane Idalia.

Idalia strengthened to a Category 2 hurricane on Tuesday afternoon with 100mph winds and is expected to further intensify before making landfall along the western coast of Florida on Wednesday morning.

A large, intense outer band was sending squalls over southwestern parts of the state and Florida Keys, the National Weather Service (NWS) reported.

The storm was 240 miles southwest of Tampa by late Tuesday and tracking to come ashore in the Big Bend area on the Gulf coast on Wednesday morning.

Life-threatening and catastrophic storm surge inundations of 10ft-15ft are expected along with destructive waves between Aucilla River and Yankeetown. Tampa, the states third latest city, could see up to 7ft of water.

Hurricane Idalia will likely be an unprecedented event for many locations in the Florida Big Bend. Looking back through recorded history, NO major hurricanes have ever moved through the Apalachee Bay. When you try to compare this storm to others, DONT. No one has seen this, NWS Tallahassee office warned.

Evacuation notices have been issued in at least 21 counties in western and central Florida with mandatory orders in places. Some 46 Florida counties are under a state of emergency.

This storm will be deadly if [Floridians] dont get out of harms way, Deanne Criswell, head of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), said during a White House briefing on Tuesday.

The trajectory of Hurricane Idalia on Tuesday afternoon (National Hurricane Center)

Tolls were being waived on Florida highways to allow residents to quickly evacuate and at least 19 shelters had been opened across the state.

Gas was running low in parts of the state, according to GasBuddy, a social media account which tracks fuel. The most impacted area was Gainesville (4.7 per cent) while 4 per cent of Fort Myers and Naples stations were without gas. Tampa and St Petersburg followed with 2.6 per cent and then Orlando (0.5 per cent).

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More than 30,000 utility workers were gathering to make repairs to the expected downed power lines, supported by the Army Corps of Engineers. Officials warned that those in the path of the storm should prepare for power outages and make sure cellphones, devices and batteries were charged.

Hurricane #Idalia will likely be an unprecedented event for many locations in the Florida Big Bend. Looking back through recorded history, NO major hurricanes have ever moved through the Apalachee Bay. When you try to compare this storm to others, DON'T. No one has seen this. pic.twitter.com/m9X8dcarc5  NWS Tallahassee (@NWSTallahassee) August 29, 2023

Tampa General Hospital, the citys only Level 1 trauma centre located on an island in Hillsborough Bay, was being surrounded by Aquafences on Tuesday in attempts to keep out predicted storm surge. In coastal Tarpon Springs, a community northwest of Tampa, 60 patients were evacuated from a hospital out of concerns of high water levels.

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis said on Tuesday that supplies of food, bottled water and tarps were on standby to move into affected areas and thousands of troops with the Florida National Guard had been activated.

He urged Floridians to heed the warnings, noting that even travelling a short distance could be life-saving.

You do not have to leave the state. You dont have to drive hundreds of miles, he said.

Visitors to the Southernmost Point take risks while capturing the impacts of Hurricane Idalia as it passes the Florida Keys some 175 miles to the west, on Tuesday (AP)

You have to get to higher ground in a safe structure. You can ride the storm out there, then go back to your home.

President Joe Biden approved a federal emergency declaration for Florida on Monday. Florida has my full support as they prepare for Idalia and its aftermath, he wrote on X, formely known as Twitter.

Volunteers place hurricane shutters at the Cedar Key Fire Station ahead of the arrival of Hurricane Idalia (REUTERS)

Hundreds of flights had been cancelled at Tampa International Airport while Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando said that it was operating under normal conditions but closely monitoring the path of the storm.

Idalia may be the first major storm to hit Florida this hurricane season but it joins a long list of disasters in the United States and globally which are being amplified by the climate crisis. Ocean temperatures have reached unprecedented highs this summer including in the Gulf of Mexico which scientists say could supercharge Idalia with stronger winds and more moisture as it comes ashore.

Idalia has already deluged western Cuba, particularly the province of Pinar del Rio which is still recovering from Hurricane Ian last year. More than 10,000 people evacuated as up to four inches (10cm) of rain fell, leaving half the province without power.
President Nana Akufo-Addo has said government "recognises the need for a well-resourced and technologically advanced navy" for Ghana.

"We have commenced equipping the navy with drones, coastal radars, real-time surveillance and tracking protocols in order to improve maritime domain awareness", President Akufo-Addo said at the inauguration of the International Maritime and Exhibition Conference held at Burma Camp.

He used the occasion to reiterate the government's commitment to shore up Ghana's counterterrorism security apparatus to stave off any threats within the Sub-region.

There have been recent disturbances in neighbouring Burkina Faso.

A coup also happened in Niger a few weeks ago.

Security analysts have said a possible military intervention by ECOWAS could make the ground fertile for terrorists to advance their agenda in the region.

President Akufo-Addo said it is important Ghana puts in the necessary preemptive measures given the closeness of the disturbances to the country.

Source: Classfmonline.com
The Agbogbomefia of the Asogli State, Togbe Afede XIV, has added his voice to calls on the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) not to apply force in restoring constitutional rule to Niger.

He maintained that diplomatic approach should be adopted in tackling the military takeover in the North African country instead of the option of war being considered by the regional body.

Wars are not easily won; what is happening in Ukraine should be good lessons to us. Diplomacy should be the way. I have absolutely no doubt in my mind We are too poor to begin to commit resources to a war that we cannot win, he said.

Togbe Afede XIV, speaking at the launch of the 2023 Asogli Yam Festival in Accra, also urged traditional authorities to help resolve chieftaincy issues in Ghana.

He said the resolution of chieftaincy disputes in the country would require honesty on the part of traditional leaders, stressing that if all chiefs thread the path of strictest honesty, there will not be disputes.

Wherever there are disputes, somebody is not telling the truth so, I will encourage our chiefs to hold to path of strictest honest so, we can establish peace on the chieftaincy front and also fight the course of peace across our country and our continent, he said.

The occasion, which also launched the 20th Anniversary of Togbe Afede's reign as Agbogbomefia of the Asogli State, brought together traditional leaders from the Volta Region, The Paramount Chief of Essikado Traditional Area in the Western Region, Nana Kobina Nketsia V, members of the diplomatic corps, the clergy, and other dignitaries.

Togbe Afede, in his address, stressed the importance of peace to the development of nations.

He said the Asogli State believed in working together to strengthen peace hence his determination to work towards resolving outstanding chieftaincy issues in the country.

Peace and stability in Ghana have been magnets that have, and continue to attract investors to the country so, let us remember that between peace and anarchy, there is no choice, he stated.

The festival themed: 20 Years of Selfless and Inspiring Leadership has been scheduled to take place from September 2, 2023, to October 8, 2023, with series of activities in the Volta Regional Capital, Ho.

Nana Kobina Nketsia, in an address, extolled the virtues and leadership qualities of Togbe Afede, indicating that the Agbogbomefia's kingship had been impactful throughout the years, as he continued to champion development across sectors.

He praised Togbe Afede for exercising good judgement at all times, indicating that leaders should have the conscience to decipher good from wrong.

You cannot lead with arrogance, you cannot lead if you're full of impunitySelflessness, humility, truthfulness are the mark of this very honourable man, he said, adding that Togbe Afedes leadership was celebrated throughout Africa.

Other traditional leaders and members of the Asogli Traditional Council praised Togbe Afede for sustaining the traditions and customs of the people over the years.

In attendance was renowned surgeon and poet, Prof. Lade Wosornu, who encouraged Togbe Afede to continue to promote peace and maintain integrity at all times.

GNA
The Northern Regional Minister, Mr Shani Alhassan Shaibu, last Friday received 90 motorbikes to promote effective monitoring and evaluation of government projects in eight districts in the region.

The Ministry of Local Government, Decentralisation and Rural Development donated the motorbikes to the region.

Presenting the motorbikes on behalf of the Ministry, the Tamale Zonal Coordinator of the Gulf of Guinea Social Cohesion (SOCO) project, Mr Samuel K. Forson, said the bikes are given to ensure successful implementation of the SOCO project.

The beneficiary MMDAs are Tamale Metro, Yendi, Nanumba North, Karaga, Saboba, Sagmarigu, Tatale-Sanguli and Gushegu Districts.

It has been realized that conflicts in the Sahel Region have rendered citizens in the northern parts of Benin, Cote dIvoire, Ghana and Togo extremely poor.

It is against this backdrop that the World Bank introduced the SOCO project to help bridge the poverty gap between these areas and the southern parts of those countries.

The Ministry of Finance has since received a credit facility of $150 million of the total $450 million from the World Bank for this purpose.
President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo on Monday inducted into office two High Court Judges at a ceremony at the Jubilee House.

The two Justices, both women  Dorothy Ayodele Kingsley Nyinah and Ama Sefenya Ayittey  were sworn into office upon the advice of the Judicial Council.

This is the seventh time since becoming President of Ghana that President Akufo-Addo has had the opportunity to swear into office Justices of the High Court.

According to President Akufo-Addo, the two justices are eminently fit and qualified for the position of Justices of the High Court.

He said that Dorothy Ayodele Kingsley Nyinah and Ama Sefenya Ayittey have the impartiality of mind and independence of spirit necessary to hold this high office.

I refer to Dorothy Ayodele Kingsley Nyinah and Ama Sefenya Ayittey. I congratulate all of you, he told the newly sworn-in Justices.

Over the last 30 years, the Ghanaians, according to President Akufo-Addo, have demonstrated their determination to build under GOD, a nation of accountable governance, founded on the rule of law and the separation of powers.

One of the most critical arms of government towards the preservation of this determination is the Judiciary.

The countrys Constitution, the President stressed, decrees that the Judiciary has the final say in all matters of the breach of law, civil and criminal, including matters relating to the interpretation and enforcement of basic law of the land itself.

The High Court, President Akufo-Addo said, is the first rung of the ladder of the Superior Court of Judicature, the Court of first instance, with original jurisdiction in all matters and with express power in article 140(2) to enforce the fundamental human rights and freedoms guaranteed by this Constitution.

He reminded the Justices that the High Court is the focal point for justice delivery in the Countrys judicial structure, stressing that it was critical for the growth of the nation that the High Court commands the respect of the people by the quality of its decisions as well as by the comportment of its Judges.

To the new justices, President Akufo-Addo said, it was essential that they show their honesty, possess integrity and a sound knowledge of the law.

He added that a corrupt and incompetent judge is a danger to the public and judicial administration.

The situation, where judges proffer judgments based on decisions from lower courts and cite them as law, is not acceptable, and even less so, when judges cite no authority at all for their rulings, and give orders without reasons.

You must be learned, know your case law and ensure your decisions and judgments are properly motivated, the President said.

President Akufo-Addo told the High Court judges that if they discharge their functions effectively, most judicial proceedings would end at their doorsteps, and, thereby, accelerate the process of judicial administration.

He said for, in the well-known maxim of Roman law, "it is to the interest of the state that there be a limit to litigation."

President Akufo-Addo urged Ghanaians that it is their collective responsibility that we all work together with our different views and different perspectives for the Ghana project.

A united Ghana, driven by considerations of social justice and solidarity and governed according to the rule of law, respect for individual freedom and liberties, human rights and the principles of democratic accountability, he stated.
Deputy Minority Leader, Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah

29.08.2023 LISTEN

The Deputy Minority Leader, Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah has expressed worry over the confirmation that indeed the audio recording of the plot to oust the Inspector General of Police (IGP) is valid.

Answering questions before the Parliamentary Ad-Hoc Committee investigating the leaked audio on Monday, Bugri Naabu authenticated the audio as he revealed that he got someone to record the conversation for him.

I didnt do it myself but I requested somebody who knows how to do the recording to come and do it for me. I didnt use a phone. I went to the mall and got this ordinary tape, Bugri Naabu who is former Northern Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) said.

Speaking to Joy News, Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah said he is worried about the latest development.

According to him, if Police officers expected to ensure the security of the country has decided to prioritise political interest then Ghana is in trouble.

Even with the first day of hearing its very clear that indeed as the testimony went and Im not trying to get into the work of the committee but its very clear that indeed this happened.

It should not happen in Ghana that people who have been entrusted at the highest level to basically protect and safeguard the interest of the people of Ghana and the stability of the country in terms of security especially when it comes to election see themselves as basically working on the interest of a political party to ensure certain outcomes.

This is a nightmare. If indeed we have such characters in the police service who do not see themselves as professionals but as NPP party aparacheeks then God should save our country, Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah bemoaned.

Despite his fears, the Deputy Minority Leader is confident that the committee investigating the matter will do a great job to get to the bottom of the issue and to make sure that all the fears are addressed.
The United States is racing to improve its messaging to the developing world as the BRICS group grows, although few in Washington view an immediate threat from the Chinese-backed club.

The BRICS -- Brazil, China, India, Russia and South Africa -- agreed at a summit last week to add six more members, in what Chinese President Xi Jinping billed as a historic moment among large emerging economies contesting the Western-led order.

As the BRICS leaders met in Johannesburg, President Joe Biden's administration renewed promises to step up funding for the developing world through the World Bank and International Monetary Fund.

Biden's national security advisor, Jake Sullivan, vowed to fight to reform the Washington-based lenders at an upcoming summit in New Delhi of the Group of 20 -- boosting the roles both of the US-backed organization, which brings together both rich and poor nations, and of India, a key member of both clubs.

The United States has also been highlighting Russia's withdrawal from a UN-backed deal to allow grain exports from Ukraine to the developing world, where some countries have questioned the Western priority of sending billions of dollars in weapons to Kyiv.

Publicly, Washington played down the BRICS expansion, saying only that countries can choose their own partners.

Sullivan, noting the wide policy differences among the countries, earlier told reporters, "We are not looking at the BRICS as evolving into some kind of geopolitical rival to the United States or anyone else."

'Alternatives, not replacements'

But experts said the BRICS expansion at least showed demand for a new way to address unmet needs, on the economic if not security front.

India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Joe Biden embrace hands during a meeting at the White House on June 23, 2023. By Brendan Smialowski (AFP/File)

Emerging nations are "looking for alternatives, not replacements" to the US-led order, said Sarang Shidore, director of the Global South program at the Quincy Institute, which advocates a less military-focused US foreign policy.

"It's a message to the United States that these gaps are hurting and our countries are not just complaining about them or carping from the sidelines, but actually taking action to try and fill these gaps," he said.

A BRICS summit statement pointed to the breakdown of the World Trade Organization's dispute settlement system, where Washington since Donald Trump's presidency has blocked appointments as it alleges unfair treatment.

Biden has ramped up climate action at home but, faced with opposition from Trump's Republican Party, the United States -- the largest historical carbon emitter and second currently to China -- is unlikely to come close to the president's promises of more than $11 billion a year by 2024 to help developing countries hardest hit by climate change.

"I think the US is starting to take it seriously," Shidore said of developing countries' concern. "But those are statements -- is there money attached to it?"

Even less cohesive?

Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi takes part in talks of the BRICS group in Johannesburg on August 24, 2023. By Marco Longari (POOL/AFP/File)

For Washington, the most concerning addition to the BRICS is Iran, which has hailed membership as a way to break out of US-driven isolation over the clerical state's contested nuclear work and clampdown on protesters.

But the new members do not see eye to eye. Also joining are three Arab countries with historically rocky ties with Iran -- Egypt, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.

Tensions also divided the original BRICS. China has a difficult relationship with India, which has been warming to the United States while insisting on "strategic autonomy."

While the BRICS statement backed reform of the UN Security Council, a major priority for India and Brazil, few expect veto-wielding China and Russia to dilute their power willingly.

Henry Tugendhat, an economist at the US Institute of Peace, said that China in promoting the expansion had inadvertently made the BRICS even less cohesive -- more akin to the G20 than the Group of Seven, the club of major industrial democracies that largely share principles.

"What's striking is that they there are many issues in which they do not align," he said of the G20.

Conspicuously absent from the BRICS expansion was any Southeast Asian country -- despite Indonesia's leadership in the Cold War-era Non-Aligned Movement -- at a time that China has been increasingly assertive on maritime disputes.

Colleen Cottle, a former CIA analyst now at the Atlantic Council, said that for China, BRICS expansion was "more about the rhetoric" of showing that developing countries were rallying to its side, rather than concrete plans to work together.

Still, she said, the BRICS expansion showed the demand for change.

The United States, she said, needs a more effective strategy than its oft-stated insistence on working with "like-minded countries" -- but also is unlikely to find success just replicating China's approach of raw infrastructure spending.

"You need to have the whole package -- the articulated long-term vision as well as the concrete funds to back it up," she said.
The former Northern Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Daniel Bugri Naabu, says he directed the senior police officers who contacted him over the removal of the Inspector General of Police (IGP) to seek assistance from mallams to enable them to have their candidate becoming the next IGP.

The move according to him, was to help the officers to plot to remove the current Inspector-General of Police from office, after admitting that he recorded the conversation between him and the officers.

According to him, he recorded the conversation between himself and some senior police officers regarding a plot to remove the current Inspector-General of Police (IGP), George Akuffo Dampare to protect the interest of his party.

Answering questions regarding the leaked tape when he appeared before a Parliamentary Ad-Hoc Committee chaired by Samuel Atta Akyea, Bugri Naabu said his decision to record the conversation was to enable him to pass the message unaltered to President Akufo-Addo.

The former NPP Chairman explained the reasons why he asked the officer to consult a spiritualist, which is that he believes that God had the ultimate hand in leadership positions and that if they wanted the IGP post, then, they needed to go and see Mallams for that spiritual favour.

The former NPP Northern Regional Chairman became the center of attraction when an audio recording involving some senior police officers hatching a plot to cause the removal of the current IGP, George Akufo-Dampare, surfaced in the media.

He also named the three senior police officers who visited him and discussed the said plot as Commander Asare, COP Mensah, and Superintendent Gyebi.

Explaining how he recorded the conversation, the former NPP Chairman said he bought the recording device at the Accra Mall, adding that since he couldnt have captured everything in his mind, hence his decision to record their conversations so that he would not leave any detail out.

The content of the leaked tape has generated a national discussion considering the nature of the conversation with senior police officers involved.

Following public reaction, Parliament set up the Committee, chaired by the Member of Parliament for Abuakwa South, Samuel Atta-Akyea, to delve into the issue.

The panel has the mandate to investigate both the authenticity of the leaked tape and the intricate allegations that have captured the nation's attention.

-DGN online
The Chancellor of the University of Education, Winneba (UEW), Neenyi Ghartey VII, has advocated the strengthening of youth-focused policies to promote vocational training and entrepreneurship towards enhanced national growth.

Giving the sessional address at the 27th Congregation of the University at Winneba on Saturday, he said the current economic and unemployment challenges sweeping through West Africa called for immediate attention.

He stated that government policy must facilitate the collaboration of educational institutions with industries to align curricula with market demand courses.

That would go a long way to equip the youth with relevant skills, especially in emerging sectors like technology and green industries, to bridge the skills gap and increase employability, he noted.

It would also provide immediate relief to the unemployed youth while fuelling economic growth and revamping the industrial sector.

This is crucial to revolutionise and establish robust social safety nets to cushion the impact of economic challenges on vulnerable populations, Neenyi Ghartey, the Paramount Chief of Effutu Traditional Area, said.

He said by supporting existing industries to face downturns due to external shocks, strengthening vulnerable sectors and encouraging innovation, the Government could safeguard jobs and promote long-term sustainability.

Government must also accelerate the transformation of the digital economy to leverage its potential to generate jobs and transform traditional industries.

He said targeted assistance programmes could also ensure that basic needs were met while maintaining social stability, and by taking those swift and resolute measures, the Government could demonstrate its commitment to addressing the pressing economic and unemployment concerns of Ghanaians.

Touching on some challenges of the University, the Chancellor said the institution was aware of students' frustration in obtaining their academic records from the UEW system, however, management had not relented in its efforts to rectify the situation.

Prof. Mawutor Avoke, out-going Vice Chancellor of the University, highlighting developments during the year under review, announced that the College for Distance and E-learning had opened two additional learning centres.

They are at Fawode Kofi Adjei Senior High Technical School in the Ashanti Region and Dormaa Senor High School in Bono Region, bringing to 44 the total number of e-learning centers.

The University had also commissioned a demonstration school and a resource centre for postgraduate programmes at its North Campus in Winneba, to serve as a model for top-notch instruction to children at an early age.

That, he said, would afford students in the Department of Early Childhood Education the opportunity to experience modern facilitation of content and teaching methodology informed by practice models.

That would serve as a conference and model lecture hall for postgraduate programmes in the Department.

Ongoing developmental projects in the school include the construction of lecturers' office complex (almost complete), hostels and a university hospital at the North Campus at Winneba.

Prof Avoke assured that management was committed to completing all projects including the faculty block at Ajumako, Graduate School Block at the North Campus and distance learning centre in Cape Coast and Accra.

GNA
Former Kumasi Mayor Kojo Bonsu has called for Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) CEO Joseph Boahen Aidoo to be vigorously investigated over the Board's reported accumulated losses.

In a social media post on Tuesday, August 29, Mr. Bonsu described the losses as "intriguing" for an organization like COCOBOD under the leadership of Joseph Boahen Aidoo.

He said the CEO must be probed to uncover the rot under his leadership.

"It's quite intriguing why an institution like COCOBOD is said to have run into serious financial crisis, heading to a complete defunct. The CEO must therefore be investigated vigorously to bring the entire nation up to speed with the happenings at COCOBOD," Kojo Bonsu stated.

Reports indicate Ghana risks losing its key foreign exchange crop, cocoa due to factors such as galamsey, accumulated debts and expansions by other producers.

The Ghana Cocoa Board, which oversees production and exports, is allegedly struggling with huge annual deficits.

The IMF identified COCOBOD's deficits as a threat, noting that they stemmed from high bill rollover costs, elevated purchase prices for farmers and increased quasi-fiscal activities.

In January, COCOBOD defaulted on GH940.42 million in securities maturities, rolling over outstanding debts instead.
Lamin J. Gassama, the director of Investigation and International Cooperation at the Drug Law Enforcement Agency of The Gambia (DLEAG), was yesterday cross-examined by Samuel Ade, the defence counsel for Sheriff Njie, who is facing charges of aggravated drug trafficking.

He is jointly charged with fugitive Banta Keita who also faces money laundering and other drug-related offence charges.

When the case was mentioned yesterday at the High Court at Mile 7, Muhammed B. Sowe announced his appearance for the State, while lawyer Sheriff Tambadou announced his appearance for the 1st suspect Banta Keita. Samuel Ade appeared for the second accused person Sheriff Njie.

Asked whether Bollarre or Circuit Trading Company was present during the weighing of the suspected cocaine, the witness responded, saying: It was only Circuit Company that was present during the weighing of the suspected drugs.

Do you have a document to show that at any material time the container was transferred to the second accused person? The witness, Lamin J. Gassama, added that the container was not transferred to him. However, his name and telephone number appeared in the papers as the contact person.

Ade further asked: You will agree with me that the Circuit Trading Company didnt transfer custody of the container by way of writing documents to the second accused person? The witness replied stating that it was not transferred by way of writing documents.

Further asked again as to who was the agent that cleared the container where the suspected drugs were found, the witness said he couldnt remember.

I am sure you remember that it was not the second accused person?" the witness responded affirmatively, saying it was not the second accused person.
Sara Sharif, aged 10, died at her house in Woking on August 10 ( Surrey Police/PA)

Police in Pakistan are widening their search for the family of Sara Sharif, who have been on the run for weeks after the 10-year-old died at her house in Woking.

Detectives are searching two more areas in Pakistan, making it four areas in total, for Saras father Urfan Sharif, 41, his partner Beinash Batool, 29, and his brother Faisal Malik, 28, the BBC reports.

It comes as the inquest into Saras death opens at Woking Coroners Court on Tuesday.

An international manhunt for the trio has entered its third week as authorities in the UK and Pakistan jointly work on the murder investigation. Saras body was found on the morning of August 10 at a house on Hammond Road.

A post-mortem examination failed to establish an exact cause of death, with Surrey Police saying further tests were being carried out. It revealed that Sara had suffered multiple injuries, likely to have been caused over a sustained and extended period of time.

The search for Saras family has widened around the city of Jhelum, where Mr Sharifs family live, after police in Pakistan received new information from multiple sources, according to the BBC.

Mr Sharif made a 999 call shortly after landing in Islamabad, Pakistans capital, which led Surrey Police to find Saras body, the BBC reported police as saying.

But one police inspector in Pakistan told the Telegraph that authorities are finding the trio are one step ahead of authorities, as they constantly change their location based on media reports.

Sardar Nisar Ahmed Khan, the spokesperson of the Regional Police Office Rawalpindi told the Telegraph: The media is reporting minute by minute and I think they are changing the location through media reporting and they are monitoring the news to avoid the arrest. Police initiated several raids but got no breakthrough yet.

Speaking to the Sunday Times, Saras grandfather Muhammad Sharif, 68, urged his son to hand himself in to police.

Muhammad Sharif said his son had briefly visited the family home in Jhelum earlier this month before he disappeared again. He said his son did not tell him about Saras death.

Story continues

We want them to present themselves, he told the Sunday Times.

We want them to resolve the matter as the privacy of our house is affected due to frequent police raids.

Last week, a court in Pakistan ruled that relatives of Saras father cannot be detained by police for questioning, after two men related to Mr Sharif were questioned for days about his whereabouts, according to reports.

Surrey Police is continuing to appeal for information to help them piece together a picture of Saras lifestyle prior to her death.

Renewing the appeal last week, Detective Superintendent Mark Chapman, from the Surrey Police and Sussex Police Major Crime Team, said: We would like to thank those people who have already come forward and reported information to us.

However, we know that there will be lots of people in the Woking community and beyond who will have had contact with Sara who may not already have come forward, and we would encourage them to do so.

Any information is better than no information  although you might think its insignificant, it might be vital to the investigation and in helping us to bring justice for Sara.

Lawyers in the UK have said Pakistans government is unlikely to block an extradition request in connection to Saras death.

There is no formal extradition treaty between the UK and Pakistan but people have been returned from the Asian country before.
29.08.2023 LISTEN

Concerns have been raised by citizens amid the circulation of expired drinks that were believed to be imported into the country without notice.

Reports have been making rounds on social media that some expired soft drinks were served at a local ceremony on Saturday, fueling suspicion that some extra expired food stuffs and drinks could be on sale in the corner shops and supermarkets.

This has raised debate in the public domain with some questioning the pro-activeness of the Food Safety and Quality Authority (FSQA).

The FSQA came to being by an Act of Parliament in 2011 but started its operations in 2013 in the area of food and feed. Since then, the Authority has only 36 inspectors.

Recently, hundreds of bags of expired rice were intercepted at the border post, expired chickens were disposed and unhealthy production of oil was also detected. Many expired foods were found at the countrys biggest market, Serrekunda.

The data obtained from FSQA indicated that from last year to date, five business entities were fined, 17 closed, eight prosecuted and five mega disposals were carried out.

This reporter has engaged a concerned citizen and a resident of Bundung, Babou Jobe, who expressed his dissatisfaction with the current state of food items imported into the country. He said expired foods are mostly circulated by wheelbarrow vendors, saying enforcement should be done to save the lives of the people.

A huge number of our population cannot read or write. Therefore, they can buy expired foods without knowing. So these people are at risk of consuming those products. It is the duty of the regulatory body to promise an environment free from expired foods, he stated.

Aji Astou Njie, also expressed her fear of buying certain products, arguing that many products are imported into the country without knowing their origin or being checked by Food Safety.

She said: I cannot dwell more on the matter but I know something has to be done if we are really serious as a nation to save our people from health complications.

Marabi Amfaal Hydara, FSQAs communications officer, told this medium that in order to make so that the food that enters the country is safe, his institution deploys inspectors across all the borders including the airport. He added that this is to ensure all foods and feeds coming into the country are inspected.

He said: We have a scientific department to ensure that anything people complaint is checked before making any conclusion. We also have the food control department that normally goes out every day to inspect. We have the regulatory department that is more of enforcement in case of someone violating the act.

Dwelling on how inspectors determine consumable food, he explained that they have a checklist that usually guides them and checks if the food is fit for human and animal consumption.

Giving his reaction to the expired foods circulating on social media, he reiterated that when their inspectors get to the field, they dont see such foods people complain about.

We cannot do anything about things we cannot see. We normally reach out anytime we see something on social media. There is a junction named Expired Junction at Serrekunda, but the things they sell are actually not expired, it is mostly six months before the expiry date, he said.

He emphasised that their inspectors are trying to trace the origin of the alleged expired drinks while noting that finding the sole proprietor is the problem. He added that they dont make decisions without finding the actual person responsible.

Molamin Jammeh, a public health officer, shared his thoughts with this medium while reiterating that public health is the art and science of preventing disease promoting health and prolonging life through organised effort.

He explained that consuming expired food affects health, saying public health officers are driving to make sure people do not fall sick by preventing diseases from occurring. He said if someone falls sick from consuming expired foods, it has undermined the goal of public health.

Expired foods in the market threaten public health. We should ensure that the food that is imported is safe and of quality and that we will be able to prevent the population from any safety issues. The consequences of consuming expired food products depend on the composition. Some expired foods pose significant health threats which include food poisoning, diarrhoea, stomachic and muscle aches, he stressed.

He said some of the chemicals used to preserve the food may be toxic to humans when consumed after the expiry date.
The Board Members of Maltaaba Peasant Women Farmers' Cooperative (MAPEWFAC) in the Upper East Region, have attended a-five-day capacity building training workshop on how to position the NGO to make more impact on the livelihoods of women and children in the area.

The NGO which is into Sustainable Agriculture and Climate Change, Commodity Value Chain, Entrepreneurship Education and Training, Women Bill of Rights, Streetism and Reintegration and Advocacy is operating with sixteen women groups in the Talensi and Nabdam District.

The event which was organized in Bolgatanga of the Upper East Region on Tuesday, attracted the Board Members including voluntary staff of the NGO and were taken through topics such as Monitoring and Evaluation, Safeguarding and Code of Conduct, Financial Management Policy, Board Charter, Strategic Development Planning among others.

The programme dubbed Shift the Power Programme is being jointly funded by Wet Africa Civil Society Institute (WACSI), Star Ghana Foundation and Comic Relief and the UK Governments Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO).

The programme which hired Consultants in the areas of Monitoring and Evaluation, Safeguarding and Code of Conduct, Financial Management Policy, Board Charter, Strategic Development Planning to offer the capacity building training programme to the Board Members and the staff of the NGO, also developed working documents and manuals for the NGO to guide its smooth operations.

Mr Hayford Christian, a Monitoring and Evaluation Consultant, who schooled the participants about the relevance of Monitoring and Evaluation, said most NGOs have folded up because of the failure of such NGOs to conduct proper Monitoring and Evaluation exercises about their projects.

Monitoring and Evaluation Performance against milestones, output, outcome and impact of indicators are very critical to the successful implementation of projects and programmes, he intimated.

The Consultant observed that most NGOs including the government sector have not made much impact on the livelihoods of the people in their operational areas as result of not putting in place proper mechanisms for the exercise.

Mr Vincent Subbey, another Consultant, who took the participants through Safeguarding and the Code of Conduct Manual, entreated the Board members to operate strictly according to the manual.

The Board Chairperson of MAPEWFAC, Ms Mollydeam Zong Buntuya, expressed her profound gratitude to the donors and expressed optimism that the training will translate into the growth of the NGO and stated that majority of the people in the region particularly women and children livelihoods depend largely on the environment.

She said it was against this background that her outfit through its sponsors have implemented a lot of interventions in the area of Sustainable Agriculture, Climate Change, Commodity Value Chain, Entrepreneurship Education and Training among others.

The Director of MAPEWFAC, Lydia Myella, who explained that the programme is aimed at supporting locally - led, Ghana-based CSOs to become more effective, sustainable and to better represent local peoples priorities, indicated that the support will play a critical role in addressing food security amid climate change
29.08.2023 LISTEN

It is becoming increasingly apparent that Hon. Kennedy Agyepong is the new deal for the current situation in Ghana. We have tried the cool type of president like Atta Mills and JAK and now nana Addo all to no avail. Nothing has really changed in Ghana, the indiscipline in the society, the thievery of national resources, the corruption among politicians, the breakdown of law and order, the unemployment among the youth, all we can say is that now, we need the "boom" type of president to bring back the straightforwardness we are lacking in our body politics in today's Ghana.

We all had a similar expectations for nana Addo upon his assumption of office but he failed miserably and has condoned corruption and indiscipline. Just look at what happened to the fight against galamsey after wasting so much resources, what did we achieve? Absolutely nothing!!!, we are back to where we started and in some places even worse now than before. Nana Addo has forgotten that he put his presidency on the line for the fight against galamsey and yet he is still the president after his abysmal performance in the fight against galamsey.

in fact, the reason why most ministers and parliamentarians and party gurus are all supporting Dr. Bawumia is that, they all see in him a weak president who would allow them to steal their money and do the galamsey they are doing which has brought untold environmental destruction to our country. Just tell me who could nana Akufo Addo stop from doing galamsey in Ghana after all the vows and promises?

Bawumia's presidency would be the same weak one as that of nana Addo and Ghana will continue to be the loser. I'm convinced that if Paul Kagame is like Akufo Addo and his vice president Bawumia, he could not have changed Rwanda from its previous state to its present status. Africa and Ghana, need strong leadership to effect change and not the weak leadership like Bawumia who can't take Ghana anywhere. Truly, the change we all desire in Ghana requires a strong leader like Ken who would not tolerate wrongdoing and put Ghana first.
29.08.2023 LISTEN

A failed Presidential aspirant Kwabena Agyei Agyepong has opined on the discourse surrounding government expenditure and efficiency.

Following his participation in the NPP Special Delegates Congress, where he secured 6 votes, Mr Agyepong has urged the Akufo-Addo-Bawumia administration to take proactive steps in curbing what he refers to as "waste in the system."

In the wake of his defeat, which kicked him out of the top five candidates poised to compete in the main presidential elections scheduled for November 4, Kwabena Agyepong spoke candidly during an interview with Kwami Sefa Kayi on Peace FM's "Kokrokoo" morning show.

"Live within our means," Mr Agyepong urged, emphasising that the government should critically examine its spending habits to ensure fiscal sustainability.

He continued, "We've got to look at some of these things. Cut the waste in the system; reduce the government size like I believe we should for a country of 31 million people and then we can continue to jaw-jaw."

Kwabena Agyepong extended his advice to the general population, advocating for a collective sense of social responsibility and unity.

He encouraged Ghanaians to support one another, stating, "Let's be relaxed. Let's think about our neighbour and help ourselves."

He emphasised that fostering a spirit of communal care and assistance would contribute significantly to the nation-building process.
Alhaji Khuzaima Mohammed Osman, Executive Secretary of the Tijjaniya Muslims Movement of Ghana (TMMG), has urged Africans to adopt a new paradigm of forceful politics in order to further the development of New Africa.

He remarked that Africa needs development in a statement made available to Communication for Development and Advocacy Consult (CDA Consult) in Tema.

He also praised the work of the presidents of Kenya and South Africa for advancing new political development agendas in their respective nations.

Alhaji Khuzaima noted former president John Dramani Mahama as an example of someone who, in his view, utilised his distinctive history and upbringing in many situations in government prior to his stint as president.

He claimed that in 2008 and 2012, a significant portion of Ghanaian youth praised former President Mahama because he showed an awareness of the character of the youth and was prepared to change the system to include the youth in governance.

The Executive Secretary of the Tijjaniya Movement, who is also a distinguished member of the Greater Accra Regional Branch of the National Peace Council of Ghana (NPC), stated that Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia has a background that is quite similar to that of former President Mahama.

He claimed that the only thing the younger generation of African youth wanted was the chance to dream large.

Regardless of one's background, colour, or gender, "hope was described among the new generation of African youth as a genuine sign of opportunities for prosperity," he stated.

He claimed that a society that establishes a class structure in which only particular social groups and professions thrive and achieve success is destined to fail its young people.

As a result, until something awful happens to us, we find ourselves in a difficult situation, or we receive a subpar good or service, we rarely see and appreciate what we have.

Alhaji Khuzaima emphasised that he has been travelling for the past eight years, attending international conferences all over the world as a representative of his sect, the Tijjaniya Muslims Movement of Ghana (TMMG), and having the honour of travelling with the top leadership of the Tijjaniya Sufi Sect almost everywhere he went.

He remarked that the nation's achievement in promoting religious tolerance is a significant one.

In order to speed up Africa's transformation and promote equitable and sustainable development, he also emphasised the importance of using youth expertise in the digital realm for national development.

He praised efforts to develop Ghana's space, including the digital address system, e-pharmacy, strengthening of the NHIS system and renewals, and zip-line medical delivery, which was a first of its kind in the globe.

He claimed that the digital world has a lot to offer Ghanaians.

According to Alhaji Khuzaima, the introduction of hope into internet commerce and the opening up of digital payments to all was a milestone that would prompt the African young to remark, "Wait a minute, things are beginning to change for the better," as hope was beginning to emerge.

-CDA Consult || Contributor
29.08.2023 LISTEN

The former Fisheries Minister Dr. Sherry Hanny Ayittey's final funeral rites have been scheduled for Friday, November 10, 2023.

On November 9, 2023, there will be a memorial service and musical performance before the burial.

A Thanksgiving service will subsequently be held on Sunday, November 12, 2023.

All the funeral activities will be held in Accra.

This was announced in a joint statement issued by the Nii Akwetey Atsu Ayi We of Osu Alata and the National Democratic Congress (NDC).

The statement was signed by the Media Committee Chairman, Godwin Ako Gunn who indicated that further details will be communicated later.

Born in 1948, Dr. Ayittey passed away on July 22, 2023 at age 75.

Madam Ayitteys death was confirmed in a statement issued by her family.
A former head of the Political Science Department of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Dr. Richard Amoako Baah has made the argument that Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia did not win the Super Delegates Congress of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) because of his popularity.

Speaking to Nhyira FM, he said it is not normal that in an election contested by 10 aspirants, the Vice President managed to secure about 70% of the votes.

He opines that Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia won the NPP Super Delegates election because money was paid to the delegates to vote for him.

A lot of people have been paid, including government appointees, party chairmen, and MPs. Is that how it is supposed to be? So the thing was skewed, and it doesnt mean he was the most popular, but he was able to pay the money, Dr. Richard Amoako Baah alleged.

He continued, Ten people were going to the election, and only one person had around 70 percent; statistically, it wasnt normal. There is something wrong.

So those who did not have money had to strategize not to put much money into the first election. So if Bawumia had around 70 percent, it wasnt because he was popular; he paid money.

On the issue of sharing money to delegates, KNUST Political Science Lecturer Professor Edward Breyan has warned that it wont work for any of the aspirants in the main NPP primaries.

According to him, none of the top five aspirants will be able to win the November 4 primaries through vote-buying alone.

Yes money will be spent in November and I do expect that we are going to see more spending in November but I dont think the spending will do the magic like it did last Saturday, Professor Breyan argued in an interview with Starr FM.
Four officers of Quick Credit and Micro Investment Company Limited, Tarkwa branch, who allegedly caused harm to Michael Kwesi Affum, a security officer of G4S security company, have been fined GHC3,600 each by the Tarkwa circuit court.

The accused persons; Micheal Afoakwa, 34, monitoring officer, Richard Anim, 28, Pius Abekah, 24 and Emmanuel Forson, 27, are all field officers, in default of the fine would serve five years each in prison with hard labour.

The court presided over by Mrs Hathier Ama Manu ordered the convicts to pay GHC10, 000 as compensation to the complainant.

Afoakwa, Anim, Abekah and Forson were charged for causing harm and abetment of crime, pleaded guilty to the offence and the court sentenced them accordingly.

Police Chief Inspector Joseph Lartey, prosecuting, told the court that Affum, the complainant, resided at Brenuakyim, in the Tarkwa-Nsuaem Municipality, while the accused persons are responsible for recovering loans from customers of the company.

He said in April 2023, the complainant obtained a loan facility of GHC1,500 from the said company and defaulted in the repayment.

The prosecution said on July 6, 2023, the accused persons were going about their duty to recover loans from defaulting customers and met the complainant by the roadside at Lay-out, got closer to him and demanded he settled the debt on the spot.

Chief Inspector Lartey said an augment ensued between the complainant and accused persons, and Afoakwa in an attempt to seize Affum's mobile phone held the left arm and twisted it behind him.

The court heard that in the process, the complainant's left arm got fractured and this made him cry out in pain.

He informed the court that accused persons, realizing the harm they had caused to Affum quickly rushed him in their car to a private health facility nearby, but he was referred to the Tarkwa Municipal hospital for treatment due to the severity of the injury.

Chief Inspector Lartey said a report was later made to the police in Tarkwa on the same day and a medical form was issued to the complainant for endorsement.

Prosecution said on July 10, 2023, Afoakwa was arrested and during investigation, he admitted the offence and mentioned Anim, Abekah and Forson as his accomplices.

He said they were arrested on July 13 and after investigations all were charged and put before court.

GNA
The Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), as part of the issuance of Value Added Tax (VAT) invoice exercise, has handed over 10 Shop managers to the Criminal Investigation Department of the Ghana Police Service for investigation.

The managers will be investigated over non-compliance with the country's tax laws and for tax infractions.

The shops are VK & J Trading Enterprise, Frimako Ventures, Molla Ventures, Yamiz Ventures, Jomilet Tiles and Abi Ventures.

Others are Delcam FB Limited Books & Stationery, Tiwalet Whosales, Klelon Mall, Regal Enterprise all located in the Ablekuma North Municipal District in the Greater Accra Region.

All these shops were found not to be issuing the Commissioner-General's invoice and issuing their own VAT when a test-purchase was done on them.

Mr Joseph Annan, Area Enforcement Manager of GRA in charge of Accra Central, said that all these Shops were found not to be issuing the Commissioner-General's invoice but issuing their own VAT invoices when a test-purchase was done on them, adding that they had violated regulations of the VAT.

He said the exercise or operations were part of an ongoing nationwide VAT Invigilation exercise by the Authority to retrieve some taxes due the State.

He said the Police would do their investigations, but for them as tax administrators, we will assess their books and then apply all the penalties and interest that are applicable.

He said it was an offence not to issue the VAT invoice and the law would take its own course.

Mr Annan said the GRA as part of a nationwide invigilation would continue to embark on mystery shopping exercises across the country to apprehend culprits evading tax.

He said the GRA's test-purchase exercise was to ensure voluntary compliance of all tax revenues.

We will continue this exercise until our taxpayers do the needful. We are adding night test-purchase for the shops who operate at night, he added.

When asked about the awareness of customers, he said the Authority every month announced the policies of tax payments of GRA on radio and TV stations and all GRA social media platforms, therefore customers are aware of tax compliance. They are just not complying with the tax laws, he said.

He advised all customers to do the right thing as patriotic citizens by ensuring that they were issued with VAT invoices.

He said the Authority in their auditing process would conduct a preemptive assessment, which meant that they would have to pay immediately, but then they would recommend a full audit to be conducted.

Mr Annan said even though they would audit their books the legal aspect would be handled by the CID, where they would prepare their docket for possible prosecution.

GNA
Dr Yaw Osei Adutwum, Minister of Education, has urged Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions in the country to build innovative and creative mindsets in their students.

He said that would help the students to be creators of electronics and machines, and not just as repairers of machines and equipment.

Our TVET should be that of innovation. It should be the TVET that does not only teach how to repair cars, but one that will teach you how to create those cars, he said.

Dr Adutwum said this at the opening plenary of the Association of Technical Universities and Polytechnics in Africa (ATUPA) 2023 Accra International Conference.

The weeklong event organised by the ATUPA and its partners is being held on the theme: Mainstreaming TVET for Skills Development, Mobility and Resilient Economies in Africa.

The Conference seeks to bring together TVET stakeholders together to deliberate and strategise on how to improve TVET education in alignment with youth empowerment, job creation and socioeconomic development in Africa.

Dr Adutwum said learners should be taught growth mindset, stressing that the broader educational ecosystem needed to be situated in creativity and innovation.

That, he said, would enable them to understand that they could also create something for themselves as done elsewhere.

The Minister called for adjustments in TVET curriculum to include social subjects such as history, geography, marketing and entrepreneurship.

He said that would bring out innovations that would be in tune with the cultural and geographical needs of people as well as help in marketing and promoting them locally.

Professor Mohammed Belhocine, Commissioner for Education, Science, Technology and Innovation, Africa Union, said TVET should not only be seen as a concept, but as a tool of socioeconomic transformation and empowerment.

He urged the stakeholders to ensure inclusivity in TVET enrollment regardless of gender or social status and address the stereotype that TVET was a secondary choice.

GNA
DUBLIN (Reuters) - The post-pandemic trend of people prioritising travel could be a more permanent change in consumers' spending habits, the head of Ireland's largest hotel group Dalata said on Tuesday.

The company, which operates the Maldron and Clayton brands and also runs 19 hotels in the United Kingdom, reported a 24% year-on-year jump in first half adjusted core profit to 103 million euros ($111 million), and said it saw no sign of a slowdown in resurgent demand for rooms.

"Certainly 2, 3, 4 years before COVID people in their 20s would have been prioritizing travel and experiences over buying things. That trend had already started and seems now to have extended to the wider population," CEO Dermot Crowley told Reuters in a telephone interview.

"There's no doubt a lot of it is related to post-COVID but the longer it goes on, the more you think well it could actually be a change in people's travel habits."

Crowley said there also seemed to be a lasting change in corporate bookings where travellers take fewer trips but stay longer and with Ireland's large multinationals spending far less on business travel than they did pre-COVID.

Dalata said its like-for-like revenue per available room (RevPAR) - a key measure of a hotel's top-line performance - was expected to be 5% higher year-on-year in the key months of July and August, following a 23% increase in the first half.

The Dublin-based group said it had 750 million euros available to spend on adding more hotels. Crowley said London was its top target, having opened two hotels there since June.

($1 = 0.9248 euros)

(Reporting by Padraic Halpin; Editing by Mark Potter)
The following companies are subsidiares of China Minsheng Banking: Anxi Rural Bank Co. Ltd., CMBC International Holdings Limited, Changyuan Rural Bank Co. Ltd., Cixi Rural Bank Co. Ltd., Funing Rural Bank Co. Ltd., Guichi Rural Bank Co. Ltd., Jiading Rural Bank Co. Ltd., Jiangxia Rural Bank Co. Ltd., Jinghong Rural Bank Co. Ltd., Linzhi Rural Bank Co. Ltd., Meihekou Rural Bank Co. Ltd., Minsheng Financial Leasing Co. Ltd., Minsheng Royal Fund Limited, Ningguo Rural Bank Co. Ltd., Ningjin Rural Bank Co. Ltd., Penglai Rural Bank Co. Ltd., Pengzhou Rural Bank Limited Liability Company, Puer Rural Bank Co. Ltd., Qijiang Rural Bank Co. Ltd., Songjiang Rural Bank Co. Ltd., Taicang Rural Bank Co. Ltd., Tengchong Rural Bank Co. Ltd., Tianchang Rural Bank Co. Ltd., Tiantai Rural Bank Co. Ltd., Tongnan Rural Bank Co. Ltd., Xiangan Rural Bank Co. Ltd., Yidu Rural Bank Co. Ltd., Yuyang Rural Bank Co. Ltd., Zhangpu Rural Bank Co. Ltd., Zhidan Rural Bank Co. Ltd., Zhongxiang Rural Bank Co. Ltd., and Ziyang Rural Bank Co. Ltd..

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Paycom Software, Inc. provides cloud-based human capital management (HCM) solution delivered as software-as-a-service for small to mid-sized companies in the United States. It offers functionality and data analytics that businesses need to manage the employment life cycle from recruitment to retirement. The company's HCM solution provides a suite of applications in the areas of talent acquisition, including applicant tracking, candidate tracker, background checks, on-boarding, e-verify, and tax credit services; and time and labor management, such as time and attendance, scheduling/schedule exchange, time-off requests, labor allocation, labor management reports/push reporting, geofencing/geotracking, and Microfence, a proprietary Bluetooth. Its HCM solution also offers payroll applications comprising better employee transaction interface, payroll and tax management, payroll card, Paycom pay, expense management, mileage tracker/fixed and variable rates, garnishment management, and GL concierge applications; and talent management applications that include employee self-service, compensation budgeting, performance management, position management, and Paycom learning and content subscriptions, as well as my analytics, which offer employment predictor reporting. In addition, its HCM solution provides manager on-the-go that gives supervisors and managers the ability to perform a variety of tasks, such as approving time-off requests and expense reimbursements; direct data exchange; ask here, a tool for direct line of communication to ask work-related questions; document and checklist; government and compliance; benefits administration/benefits to carrier; COBRA administration; personnel action and performance discussion forms; surveys; and affordable care act applications, as well as Clue, which securely collect, track, and manage the vaccination and testing data of the workforce. Paycom Software, Inc. was founded in 1998 and is headquartered in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.
Tupperware Brands Corporation operates as a consumer products company in the Asia Pacific, Europe, Africa, the Middle East, North America, and South America. The company manufactures, markets, and sells design-centric preparation, storage, and serving solutions for the kitchen and home under the Tupperware brand name, as well as a line of cookware, knives, microwave products, microfiber textiles, water-filtration related items, and an array of products for on-the-go consumers under the Tupperware brand name. It distributes its products to approximately 70 countries primarily through independent sales force members, including independent distributors, directors, managers, and dealers. The company was formerly known as Tupperware Corporation and changed its name to Tupperware Brands Corporation in December 2005. Tupperware Brands Corporation was founded in 1946 and is headquartered in Orlando, Florida.
The Bristol-Myers Squibb Company is a leading global biopharmaceutical company with a long and impressive history of innovating and developing medicines that improve the lives of patients around the world. Founded in 1887 when William McLaren Bristol and John Ripley Myers purchased the Clinton Pharmaceutical Company, the company was initially named Bristol, Myers and Company. Its first nationally recognized product, Sal Hepatica, was released in the 1890s.

Bristol Myers-Squibb offers chemically synthesized drugs and biologics administered through injections or infusions to patients. The company's pharmaceutical portfolio includes a large number of well-known products. BMS's primary research and development sites are in New Jersey, California, Spain, Massachusetts, New York, Belgium, Japan, India and Massachusetts. The company's products sell to wholesalers and distributors around the world.

Bristol Myers-Squibb has a robust pipeline of investigational medicines in its pipeline. In addition, the company has established strategic collaborations and partnerships with various companies, successfully launching new products. These partnerships and investments generate portions of the company's revenue.

Bristol Myers-Squibb has acquired several companies over the years, including Medarex in 2009, ZymoGenetics in 2010, Inhibitex Inc. in 2012, Amylin Pharmaceuticals in 2012, iPierian in 2014, Flexus Biosciences in 2015, Cardioxyl in 2015, Padlock Therapeutics in 2016, Cormorant Pharmaceuticals in 2017, IFM Therapeutics in 2017, Celgene in 2019, Otezla in 2019, Forbius in 2020, MyoKardia in 2020 and Turning Point Therapeutics in 2022.

In 2005, the company divested individual consumer products and its subsequent consumer products businesses. In December 2014, the company received FDA approval for its cancer drug, Opdivo, used to treat skin cancers that do not respond to drug therapies. In 2019, the company divested its consumer health business, UPSA, to Taisho.

The company has also faced several scandals, lawsuits and investigations over the years, the biggest of which is the ongoing $1 billion lawsuit from Guatemala for the company's role in a 1940s experiment that infected hundreds with syphilis. In 2001 BMS faced an accounting scandal that resulted in a restatement of revenues from 1999 to 2001. In 2002, BMS faced a lawsuit based on illegally maintaining a monopoly on Taxol, a chemotherapy medication. The former head of the pharma group and the ex-CFO were indicted for federal securities violations in 2005. In July of 2006, an FBI raid on the company's corporate offices revealed that the company took steps to delay the release of a generic version of one of its drugs.

BMS began a significant restructuring in 2009, focusing on the pharmaceutical business and biologic products, productivity initiatives and cost-cutting. The U.S. attorney forced the company into oversight and appointed a monitor as part of a deferred prosecution agreement. Lou Schmukler joined Bristol-Myers Squibb in 2010 as global product development and design president.

In 2013, Forbes magazine ranked the company as the drug company of the year. Dr. Giovanni Caforio took the reigns as CEO in 2015. In 2017, reports began to surface that activist investor Carl Icahn took a stake in the company, widely seen as a signal for a potential future takeover.

As Bristol-Myers Squibb continues to experience success and growth, the company is committed to delivering innovative treatments to patients and staying ahead of the curve in the biopharmaceutical industry. With its focus on research and development and a long and rich history of delivering innovative medicines, BMS offers an excellent long-term investment opportunity.
Centamin plc, together with its subsidiaries, engages in the exploration, mining, and development of precious metals in Egypt, Burkina Faso, Cote d'Ivoire, Jersey, the United Kingdom, and Australia. It explores for gold deposits. The company principal asset is the Sukari Gold Mine project, which covers an area of approximately 160 square kilometers located in the Eastern Desert of Egypt. Centamin plc was incorporated in 2011 and is headquartered in Saint Helier, Jersey.
China Hongqiao Group Limited, an investment holding company, manufactures and sells aluminum products in the People's Republic of China and Indonesia. The company's products include molten aluminum alloys, aluminum alloy ingots, aluminum busbars, aluminum alloy processing, and alumina products. It also engages in the research, development, manufacture, trading, and sale of bauxite; production and sale of electricity; port operation; trading of carbons, iron ores, and light alloy materials; railway design and construction; and provision of financial leasing and business advisory services. The company was founded in 1994 and is headquartered in Zouping, the People's Republic of China. China Hongqiao Group Limited operates as a subsidiary of China Hongqiao Holdings Limited.
NuScale Power Corporation is a leading company in advanced small modular reactors (SMRs) for nuclear power generation. The company aims to provide safe, reliable, cost-effective nuclear energy solutions to meet the world's growing demand for clean and sustainable power. Headquartered in Portland, Oregon, NuScale Power Corporation operates in various locations nationwide. It is at the forefront of developing innovative technologies that have the potential to transform the nuclear power industry.

NuScale Power Corporation specializes in designing, developing, and deploying small modular reactors. These compact, scalable, and highly efficient reactors offer several advantages over traditional large-scale reactors. The company's flagship product is the NuScale Power Module. This groundbreaking SMR design can generate up to 60 megawatts of electricity.

The NuScale Power Module features advanced passive safety systems, modular construction, and enhanced operational flexibility. It leverages natural circulation and passive cooling mechanisms, reducing the need for active systems and operator intervention during normal and abnormal conditions. This innovative design ensures safety, reliability, and improved economics for nuclear power plants.

NuScale Power Corporation primarily targets the global nuclear power industry. With the increasing demand for clean and sustainable energy sources, NuScale's SMRs offer a promising solution to meet the electricity needs of various regions. The company aims to partner with utilities, energy companies, and government entities to deploy its SMR technology worldwide.

Key customers of NuScale Power Corporation include major utility companies, energy developers, and government agencies interested in incorporating advanced nuclear power into their energy portfolios. The company has established strategic collaborations and partnerships with industry leaders to advance its technology and facilitate commercialization.

NuScale Power Corporation has achieved several notable milestones in its journey toward commercializing its SMR technology. In 2022, the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) completed its review of NuScale's Design Certification Application, marking a significant regulatory milestone for the company. This achievement demonstrated the viability and safety of NuScale's innovative SMR design.

Furthermore, NuScale Power Corporation secured contracts to deploy its SMR technology in various regions, including the United States, Canada, and Europe. These contracts showcase the growing interest and confidence in NuScale's SMR technology as a sustainable and reliable energy solution.

The leadership team at NuScale Power Corporation comprises seasoned professionals with extensive experience in the nuclear power industry and related fields. They bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to guide the company's strategic direction and drive innovation.

John L. Hopkins serves as the President, Chief Executive Officer, and Director of NuScale Power Corporation. With a background in nuclear energy and a track record of leadership in the industry, Hopkins plays a pivotal role in steering the company toward success. Chris Colbert is the Chief Financial Officer overseeing the company's financial operations. With his finance and business strategy expertise, Colbert ensures effective financial management and supports NuScale's growth objectives.

Investors and industry analysts have closely watched NuScale Power Corporation's financial performance. The company still needs to achieve profit. NuScale Power Corporation has strategically invested in research, development, and deployment activities to advance its SMR technology.

The market performance of NuScale Power Corporation's stock has garnered significant attention for its downward trajectory since Q3 2022. Various factors influence the stock's performance, including company financials, industry dynamics, and market sentiment.

NuScale Power Corporation operates in the dynamic and evolving nuclear power industry. The company is positioned within the heating equipment sector of the computer and technology industry. Energy demand, regulatory frameworks, environmental concerns, and technological advancements shape the industry landscape. NuScale's SMR technology provides a competitive advantage in terms of safety, efficiency, and scalability compared to traditional large-scale reactors.

NuScale Power Corporation is well-positioned to capitalize on various growth opportunities in the nuclear power industry. The company's innovative SMR technology offers potential advantages such as reduced capital costs, enhanced safety features, and flexibility in deployment. NuScale aims to seize opportunities by expanding its partnerships, securing new contracts, and exploring international markets. The company's ongoing research and development efforts could also lead to further technological advancements and potential applications beyond power generation.

NuScale Power Corporation faces risks and challenges that could impact its operations and financial performance. These include regulatory uncertainties, public perception of nuclear power, competition from alternative energy sources, and the complexity of nuclear project development. The company must navigate these challenges through effective risk management strategies, regulatory compliance, and continued innovation to mitigate potential negative impacts.
GoDaddy Inc. engages in the design and development of cloud-based products in the United States and internationally. It operates through two segments: Applications and Commerce and Core Platform. The Applications and Commerce segment provides applications products, including Websites + Marketing, a mobile-optimized online tool that enables customers to build websites and e-commerce enabled online stores; and Managed WordPress, a streamlined and optimized hosting platform that allows customers to build and manage a faster and more secure WordPress site and offered with WooCommerce to sell online; and marketing tools and services, such as GoDaddy Studio mobile application, search engine optimization, Meta and Google My Business listings, and email and social media marketing designed to help businesses acquire and engage customers and create content. The segment also offers connected commerce comprising Smart Terminal, a dual screen all-in-one Point-of-Sale system that allows customers to manage in-store inventory and product catalogs and take payments; GoDaddy Payments, a payment facilitator that enables customers to accept all major forms of payments; and email service plans with a multi-feature web interface, and Microsoft Office 365 accounts that connects to customers' domains. The Core Platform segment offers domain products, including primary registrations, domain aftermarket platform, and domain name add-ons, as well as GoDaddy Registry, a provider of domain name registry services; and hosting and security services comprising shared website hosting, website hosting on virtual private servers and virtual dedicated servers, and managed hosting services, as well as security products with a comprehensive suite of tools designed to help secure customers' online presence. The company serves small businesses, individuals, organizations, developers, designers, and domain investors. GoDaddy Inc. was incorporated in 2014 and is headquartered in Tempe, Arizona.
The following companies are subsidiares of Industria de Diseno Textil: BSKE, Bershka BH, Bershka BSK Espana, Bershka BSK Espana, Bershka Belgique, Bershka Bulgaria, Bershka Carpati, Bershka Ceska Republica, Bershka Cis, Bershka Commercial (Shanghai) Co, Bershka Commercial Beijing Co, Bershka Croatia, Bershka Deutschland B.V. & CO. KG, Bershka Diseno, Bershka France, Bershka Giyim Ithalat Ihracat Ve Tic.Ltd., Bershka Hellas, Bershka Hong Kong Limited, Bershka Ireland., Bershka Italia, Bershka Japan, Bershka Korea, Bershka Logdistica, Bershka Macau, Bershka Magyaroszag Kft., Bershka Mexico, Bershka Nederland, Bershka Osterreich Clothing GmbH, Bershka Polska Sp Z O.O., Bershka Portugal Conf. Soc. Unip. Lda., Bershka S, Bershka Serbia, Bershka Slovakia, Bershka Suisse, Bershka U.K., Bershka USA INC, Bershka Ukraine, Best Retail Kazakhstan, CDC Trading (Shangai) Co. LTD., Choolet, Comditel, Confecciones Fdios, Confecciones Goa, Corporacion de Servicios XX1, Denllo, FGI Gestion Mex, FSF New York, FSF Soho, Fashion Logistic Forwarders, Fashion Retail, Fibracolor, G. Zara Home Uruguay, G.Zara Uruguay, Glencare, Goa-Invest, Goa-Invest Deutschland GMBH, Group Zara Australia Pty. Ltd., Grupo Massimo Dutti, Gruputerque Portugal Conf. Lda, Hampton, ITX Albania SHPK, ITX Asia Pacific Enterprise Management, ITX E-commerce (Shanghai) Co. Ltd, ITX Fashion Ltd, ITX Fashion retail South Africa, ITX Finance Asia, ITX Financien, ITX Financien II, ITX Financien III, ITX Global Solutions LIMITED, ITX Holding, ITX Italia, ITX Korea LIMITED, ITX Merken, ITX RE, ITX Services India Private Ltd, ITX Taiwan B.V. Bershka Taiwan Branch, ITX Taiwan B.V. Massimo Dutti Taiwan Branch, ITX Taiwan B.V. Pull & Bear Taiwan Branch, ITX Taiwan B.V. Zara Home Taiwan Branch, ITX Trading, ITX USA, ITXR Macedonaia Dooel Skopje, Indipunt, Indipunt Diseno, Inditex, Inditex France, Inditex Logdistica, Inditex Montenegro, Inditex Trent Retail India Private LTD, Inditex Vastgoed Korea, Invercarpro, Italco Moda Italiana, KG Massimo Dutti Deutschland, Kiddys Class Espana, Kommanditgesellschaft ZARA Deutschland B.V. & Co., LFT RUS Ltd, Lefties Espana, Lefties Logdistica, Lelystad Platform, Limited Liability Company "BK GARMENTS BLR", Limited Liability Company "MASSIMO DUTTI BLR", Limited Liability Company "OYSHO BLR", Limited Liability Company "PULL AND BEAR BLR", Limited Liability Company "STRADIVARIUS BLR", Limited Liability Company "ZARA BLR", Limited Liability Company "ZARA HOME BLR", MD Benelux, Massimo Dutti, Massimo Dutti BH, Massimo Dutti Bulgaria, Massimo Dutti CIS, Massimo Dutti Canada, Massimo Dutti Ceska Republika, Massimo Dutti Commercial Beijing Co, Massimo Dutti Commercial Shangai CO, Massimo Dutti Croatia, Massimo Dutti Danmark A/S, Massimo Dutti Deutschland, Massimo Dutti Diseno, Massimo Dutti Finland OY, Massimo Dutti France, Massimo Dutti Giyim Ithalat Ih.Ve Tic. Ltd., Massimo Dutti Hellas, Massimo Dutti Hong Kong, Massimo Dutti Ireland., Massimo Dutti Italia, Massimo Dutti Japan, Massimo Dutti Korea, Massimo Dutti Logdistica, Massimo Dutti Macau Ltd., Massimo Dutti Magyarorxzag KFT, Massimo Dutti Mexico, Massimo Dutti Nederland, Massimo Dutti Norge, Massimo Dutti Osterreich, Massimo Dutti Polska, Massimo Dutti Ro, Massimo Dutti S, Massimo Dutti Serbia, Massimo Dutti Slovakia, Massimo Dutti Suisse, Massimo Dutti Sverige, Massimo Dutti UK, Massimo Dutti USA, Massimo Dutti Ukraine, Massimo DuttiI India Private Ltd, Master Retail Kazakhstan, Nikole, Nikole Diseno, Nueva comercializadora global XXI, Oysho Belgique, Oysho Bulgaria, Oysho CIS, Oysho Ceska Republica, Oysho Commercial & Trading (Shangai) Co., Oysho Croacia, Oysho Diseno, Oysho Espana, Oysho France, Oysho Giyim Ithalat Ihracat Ve Ticaret Ltd., Oysho Hellas, Oysho Hong Kong Ltd, Oysho Italia, Oysho Kazakhstan, Oysho Korea, Oysho Logdistica, Oysho MAGYARORSZAG, Oysho Macau, Oysho Mexico, Oysho Polska, Oysho Portugal, Oysho Ro, Oysho Serbia, Oysho Slovakia S.R.O, Oysho Suisse SARL, Oysho Sverige, Oysho Ukraine, P&B Gmbh, Plataforma Cabanillas, Plataforma Europa, Plataforma Logdistica Leon, Plataforma Logdistica Meco, Pro Retail Kazakhstan, Pull & Bear, Pull & Bear BH, Pull & Bear Belgique, Pull & Bear Bulgaria, Pull & Bear CIS, Pull & Bear Ceska Republika, Pull & Bear Commercial Beijing Co, Pull & Bear Croatia, Pull & Bear Deutschland BV& CO, Pull & Bear Diseno, Pull & Bear Espana, Pull & Bear France, Pull & Bear Giyim Ith. Ihrac.Ve Tic. Ltd., Pull & Bear Hellas, Pull & Bear Hong Kong LTD, Pull & Bear Ireland, Pull & Bear Italia, Pull & Bear Korea, Pull & Bear Logdistica, Pull & Bear Macau, Pull & Bear Magyarorszag Kft., Pull & Bear Mexico, Pull & Bear Nederland, Pull & Bear Osterreich Clothing, Pull & Bear Polska, Pull & Bear Portugal Conf. Lda., Pull & Bear Ro, Pull & Bear Serbia, Pull & Bear Slovakia, Pull & Bear Suisse, Pull & Bear Sverige, Pull & Bear Uk Limited, Pull & Bear Ukraine, Pull&Bear S, Retail Group Kazakhstan, Robustae Mexico, Robustae S.G.P.S. Unip. Lda., SCI Vastgoed Ferreol P03302, SCI Vastgoed France P03301, SCI Vastgoed General Leclerc P03303, SCI Vastgoed Nancy P03304, SNC Zara France Immobiliere, Samlor, Spanish Retail Kazakhstan, Stear, Stradivarius BH, Stradivarius Bulgaria, Stradivarius CIS, Stradivarius Ceska Republika, Stradivarius Commercial Shangai CO, Stradivarius Croatia, Stradivarius Diseno, Stradivarius Espana, Stradivarius Espana Sa, Stradivarius France, Stradivarius Giyim Ithalat Ih. Ve Tic. Ltd., Stradivarius Hellas, Stradivarius Hong Kong, Stradivarius Ireland Limited, Stradivarius Italia SRL, Stradivarius Japan Corporation, Stradivarius Korea, Stradivarius Logdistica, Stradivarius Macau, Stradivarius Magyaroszag Kft., Stradivarius Mexico, Stradivarius Nederland, Stradivarius Polska, Stradivarius Portugal, Stradivarius Ro, Stradivarius S, Stradivarius Serbia, Stradivarius Slovakia, Stradivarius UK LIMITED, Stradivarius Ukraine, Tordera Logdistica, Trisko, Uterque, Uterque Cis, Uterque Commercial & Trading (Shangai) Co., Uterque Diseno, Uterque Espana, Uterque Fashion RO S.R.L., Uterque Giyim Limited, Uterque Hellas, Uterque Kazakhstan LLP, Uterque Logdistica, Uterque Mexico S.A. de C.V., Uterque Polska SP. ZOO, Uterque Ukraine, Z-Fashion Finland Oy, ZAO Zara CIS, ZHE, Za Clothing Ireland, Za Giyim Ithalat Ihracat Ve Ticaret Ltd., Zara, Zara Argentina, Zara Asia, Zara BH, Zara Belgique, Zara Brasil, Zara Bucuresti, Zara Bulgaria LTD, Zara Canada, Zara Ceska Republika, Zara Chile, Zara Commercial (Beijing), Zara Commercial (Shanghai), Zara Croatia, Zara Denmark A/S, Zara Deutschland, Zara Diseno, Zara Espana, Zara Fashion (Shanghai) CO., Zara Financien B.V. Ireland, Zara Finland, Zara France, Zara Hellas, Zara Holding, Zara Holding II, Zara Home Australia Pty Ltd, Zara Home Belgique, Zara Home Brasil Produtos para o Lar, Zara Home CIS, Zara Home Canada, Zara Home Ceska Republica, Zara Home Chile SPA, Zara Home Commercial & Trading (Shangai) Co., Zara Home Croatia, Zara Home Danmark A/S, Zara Home Deutschland B.V. & Co. KG, Zara Home Diseno, Zara Home Espana, Zara Home Francia, Zara Home Giyim Ithalat Ihracat Ve Ticaret Ltd., Zara Home Hellas, Zara Home Hong Kong Ltd, Zara Home Italia, Zara Home Japan Corp., Zara Home Kazakhstan, Zara Home Korea LIMITED, Zara Home Logdistica, Zara Home Macao Ltd, Zara Home Magyarorszag KFT., Zara Home Mexico, Zara Home Nederland, Zara Home Osterreich Clothing GMBH, Zara Home Polska, Zara Home Portugal, Zara Home Retail South Africa (PTY) LTD., Zara Home Ro, Zara Home SRB DOO Beograd, Zara Home Suisse SARL, Zara Home Sverige AB, Zara Home U.K., Zara Home Ukraine, Zara Immobiliare Italia SRL, Zara Italia, Zara Japan Corp., Zara Logdistica, Zara Luxembourg, Zara Macau, Zara Magyarorszag, Zara Management, Zara Mexico, Zara Monaco, Zara Nederland, Zara Norge, Zara Osterreich Clothing, Zara Polska, Zara Portugal Confeccoes Lda., Zara Puerto Rico, Zara Retail Korea, Zara Retail NZ Limited, Zara S, Zara Serbia, Zara Slovakia, Zara Suisse S.A.R.L., Zara Sverige, Zara Taiwan, Zara UK, Zara USA, Zara Ukraine LLC , Zara Vastgoed, Zara Vittorio 11 Italia S.R.L., Zara Vittorio 13 Italia, and Zintura.

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iShares MSCI EAFE Value ETF (the Fund), formerly iShares MSCI EAFE Value Index Fund, is an exchange-traded fund (ETF). The Fund seeks to provide investment results that correspond generally to the price and yield performance, before fees and expenses, of the MSCI EAFE Value Index. The Index is a subset of the MSCI EAFE Index and constituents of the Index include securities from Europe, Australasia (Australia and Asia), and the Far East. The Fund invests in sectors, such as financials, energy, healthcare, telecommunication services, industrials, utilities, consumer discretionary, materials, information technology and consumer staples. The Fund generally invests at least 90% of its assets in securities of the Index and in depositary receipts representing securities of the Index. BlackRock Fund Advisors (BFA) serves as the investment adviser to the Fund.
STMicroelectronics N.V., together with its subsidiaries, designs, develops, manufactures, and sells semiconductor products in Europe, the Middle East, Africa, the Americas, and the Asia Pacific. The company operates through Automotive and Discrete Group; Analog, MEMS and Sensors Group; and Microcontrollers and Digital ICs Group segments. The Automotive and Discrete Group segment offers automotive integrated circuits (ICs), and discrete and power transistor products. The Analog, MEMS and Sensors Group segment provides industrial application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs) and application-specific standard products (ASSPs); general purpose analog products; custom analog ICs; wireless charging solutions; galvanic isolated gate drivers; low and high voltage amplifiers, comparators, and current-sense amplifiers; MasterGaN, a solution that integrates a silicon driver and GaN power transistors in a single package; wireline and wireless connectivity ICs; touch screen controllers; micro-electro-mechanical systems (MEMS) products, including sensors or actuators; and optical sensing solutions. The Microcontrollers and Digital ICs Group segment offers general purpose and secure microcontrollers; radio frequency (RF) and electrically erasable programmable read-only memories; and RF, digital, and mixed-signal ASICs. It also provides assembly and other services. The company sells its products through distributors and retailers, as well as through sales representatives. It serves automotive, industrial, personal electronics and communications equipment, and computers and peripherals markets. STMicroelectronics N.V. was incorporated in 1987 and is headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland.
GE is a multi-national conglomerate that was originally incorporated in 1892. The company was founded by Thomas Edison as the Edison General Electric Company and shortened its name to General Electric following a merger with two other early electric pioneers. The name was later shortened again to GE. The company is headquartered in Boston, Massachusetts but has operations on a global scale. One of the original 12 Dow stocks, the company was a component of the index for 122 years until its ousting in 2018.

Originally intended to make and market Edisons incandescent lamp and following products, the company grew over the years through mergers, acquisitions, and natural expansion into newly created fields. Among the many early accomplishments is the creation of RCA and NBC which will both become forces of their own. Other major innovations include the worlds first turbine superchargers, industrial gas turbine engines, and the first jet engine. In the field of computing, General Electric Company is credited as being one of the 8 major computer companies of the 1960s and shares responsibility for todays digital world. In regard to its employees, two were awarded the Nobel Prize for their work with the company.

Today GE operates as a high-tech industrial company in Europe, China, Asia, the Americas, the Middle East, and Africa. The company operates through four segments including Power, Renewables, Aerospace, and Healthcare although there are plans in the works to split the company into three separate entities. The three new companies would be GE Vernova (power and renewables), GE Health, and GE Aerospace. The spin-offs are expected to be completed by 2025.

The Power segment offers a variety of turbine engines for power production as well as the full range of services from plant construction to retrofit and refit. The Renewables segment is focused on solutions for renewable energy including wind and hydro and the technology to operate them. The Aviation segment manufactures aircraft engines of all varieties and the Healthcare segment offers technology for imaging, monitoring, diagnostics, and drug discovery to health and medical facilities.

General Electric is committed to helping the world transition to a greener way of life and is exiting the new-build coal-fired power industry. Instead, its advancements in wind, grid efficiency, and natural gas are being deployed around the world helping to reduce emissions and generate cleaner energy for businesses, industry, and communities. The company is targeting 2030 for its own carbon neutrality and 2050 for net zero emissions.
(Bloomberg) -- Florida is bracing for a major hurricane that is poised to bring life-threatening winds and storm surge to the Tampa Bay area as Tropical Storm Idalia neared hurricane strength Monday in the Gulf of Mexico.

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Idalias sustained winds were measured at 70 miles (113 kilometers) per hour, just below hurricane force, the US National Hurricane Center said in an advisory at 8 p.m. New York time. The storm is forecast to reach Category 3 strength at 120 mph as it makes landfall Wednesday after hitting western Cuba.

Depending on its exact track, Idalia could cause as much as $10 billion in damage and losses, according to a disaster modeling firm Enki Research.

Idalia will likely become a hurricane later tonight as it moves into the southeastern Gulf of Mexico where conditions appear very favorable for additional intensification, National Hurricane Center Deputy Director Jamie Rhome said Monday in a video posted on YouTube. It is now forecast to become a major hurricane as it approaches the Florida big bend.

How Hurricanes Are Categorized on an Imperfect Scale: QuickTake

Idalias winds could jump by 35 mph or more in a day, a burst of strength that sometimes takes officials and residents by surprise as a storm approaches.

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis extended his emergency declaration to cover 46 counties, up from 33 earlier this weekend. And President Joe Biden approved federal emergency declarations for Florida, allowing the Department of Homeland Security and the Federal Emergency Management Agency to coordinate relief efforts. Tampa International Airport will close Tuesday.

Because the storms track can change before it makes landfall, DeSantis warned residents all along the coast, from Tampa to the Florida Panhandle, to be prepared. Mandatory evacuation orders have been issued for parts of Hillsborough, Citrus, Pinellas, Levy, Manatee, Pasco, Taylor and Suwannee counties.

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This is going to be a major hurricane, you could have catastrophic storm surge in your area, DeSantis said. You could have major impact even if youre outside the cone, so please plan accordingly.

In addition to its winds, Idalia could push as much as 12 feet (3.7 meters) of water onto the shore from the Aucilla River to Chassahowitzka, Florida, and as much as 7 feet into Tampa Bay, as well as drench a large area as far north as the Carolinas with up to 8 inches of rain. Flooding downpours that could spark landslides also are expected across western Cuba as the storm moves north.

Officials in Cuba declared a hurricane warning for three western provinces, as large swathes of the island were drenched in rain. In Pinar del Rio, the heart of Cubas tobacco industry, municipal authorities said they had moved and protected more than 580 tons of tobacco leaves amid intense rainfall.

How much damage Idalia does will depend on its exact track, said Phil Klotzbach, a hurricane researcher at Colorado State University. It is forecast to approach the coast at a shallow angle and if it comes in just north of Tampa, it could push a lot of storm surge up the bay, causing quite a bit of damage. The worst surge and winds along the coast will likely be from where the eye hits to areas south of there.

It is going to be a really close call, 20 or 30 miles is going to make a lot of difference, Klotzbach said. Its yet another nail-biter for Tampa.

Barge traffic moving fuel along the US Gulf Coast to Florida is down, according to Ned Bowman, executive director of the Florida Fuel Marketers Association. Meanwhile, demand is surging for gasoline as Floridians fill up for possible evacuations as well as for diesel for backup power generation, Bowman said.

To complicate matters, DeSantis said the state has identified 29 gas stations that recently received tainted fuel. Citgo said Sunday it discovered contaminated fuel at its terminal in Tampa, Florida, and has asked marketers to stop sales of the product. DeSantis said the incident likely wont have a major impact on fuel supply.

Florida is mainly supplied via waterborne shipments from refiners in Texas and Louisiana. The Coast Guard has closed the ports of Tampa, Manatee, St. Petersburg and Fort Myers to incoming traffic in advance of Idalia.

If it reaches forecast strength, Idalia would be the first major hurricane to hit Florida since last September when Hurricane Ian struck the western part of the state as a Category 4 storm, killing at least 150 people and causing more than $112 billion in damage, the hurricane center said.

Idalia is expected to stay in the eastern Gulf, away from offshore oil and natural gas production. Most of the key citrus areas in central Florida would not be seriously impacted, World Weather Inc. President Drew Lerner said.

However, Idalia may affect agriculture across the South, as well as bring widespread power outages and snarl land and air travel. Utilities said they were moving their crews to respond to potential blackouts caused by the storm.

--With assistance from Immanual John Milton, Jim Wyss, Sheela Tobben, Chunzi Xu, Anna Jean Kaiser and Dan Murtaugh.

(Updates with new advisory in second paragraph and Cuba details in 10th paragraph.)

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Old Mutual Limited, together with its subsidiaries, provides financial services primarily in South Africa and rest of Africa. The company operates through Mass and Foundation Cluster, Personal Finance and Wealth Management, Old Mutual Investments, Old Mutual Corporate, Old Mutual Insure, and Old Mutual Africa Regions segments. It offers risk products, including group risk and funeral covers; long-term savings; lending products comprising micro-lending; and transactional products. It also provides financial advice, investment, and income products, as well as asset management services. In addition, the company offers investments, annuities, and consulting services to employee-sponsored retirement and benefit funds; and health, property, and casualty insurance products. It serves low-income and lower-middle income markets; high income and high net worth individuals; and employee-sponsored retirement and benefit funds. The company was founded in 1845 and is based in Cape Town, South Africa.
Orion Oyj develops, manufactures, and markets human and veterinary pharmaceuticals and active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) in Finland, Scandinavia, other European countries, North America, and internationally. It provides prescription drugs and self-care products, which includes Nubeqa for the treatment of prostate cancer; dexdor and Precedex for intensive care sedative; Stalevo and Comtess/Comtan for Parkinson's disease; Simdax for acute decompensated heart failure; and Precedex for intensive care sedative, as well as Fareston for breast cancer. The company also offers Salmeterol/fluticasone Easyhaler; Budesonide/formoterol Easyhaler; Formoterol Easyhaler; Budesonide Easyhaler; Beclomet Easyhaler; and Buventol Easyhaler drugs for the treatment of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. In addition, it provides veterinary drugs comprising Bonqat, Clevor, Domosedan, Domitor, Antisedan, Dexdomitor, Domosedan Gel, Sileo, and Tessie; APIs for generic and proprietary drugs, as well as provides contract manufacturing services; and markets and sells veterinary drugs manufactured by other international companies. The company serves primarily healthcare services providers and professional, such as specialist and general practitioners, veterinarians, pharmacies, hospitals, healthcare centres, clinics and laboratories. Further, it has partnership with Propeller Health to connect the Easyhaler(R) product portfolio; and a research collaboration and license agreement with Amneal Pharmaceuticals, Inc. to commercialize Amneal's generic products. The company was founded in 1917 and is headquartered in Espoo, Finland.
Wells Fargo & Company is a multinational financial services company that has established itself as a prominent player in the global financial industry. Founded in 1852 and headquartered in San Francisco, California, Wells Fargo operates in 35 countries and serves over 70 million customers worldwide. Its rich history and successful mergers and acquisitions have contributed to its significant global presence.

As a comprehensive financial services provider, Wells Fargo offers a wide range of banking, investment, mortgage, and consumer financial services. The company's mission is to satisfy its customers' financial needs and help them succeed financially. Wells Fargo aims to achieve this by providing exceptional service, acting with integrity, fostering diversity and inclusion, and contributing positively to the communities it serves.

Wells Fargo's extensive product and service portfolio caters to various market segments. The company serves individual consumers, small businesses, corporations, and institutional investors. Its key customers encompass a broad spectrum, ranging from everyday banking customers to high-net-worth individuals and large corporations. Wells Fargo aims to meet the diverse financial needs of its customers through personalized solutions and innovative offerings.

The company has achieved several notable milestones and received recognition for its contributions to the financial industry. Wells Fargo has been ranked as one of the "Big Four Banks" in the United States, alongside JPMorgan Chase, Bank of America, and Citigroup. It is also recognized as one of the largest banks in the country by total assets, deposits, and market capitalization. Wells Fargo's commitment to delivering quality financial services has earned it a position among the most valuable bank brands.

Wells Fargo is led by an experienced and capable management team that guides the company's operations and strategic direction. The leadership team consists of individuals with diverse backgrounds and extensive finance, banking, technology, risk management, and customer service expertise. The Chief Executive Officer and President of Wells Fargo is Charles W. Scharf, who brings a wealth of experience in the financial industry. The management team also includes key executives such as Michael J. Santomassimo as the Chief Financial Officer and Scott Powell as the Chief Operating Officer. Each management team member contributes their professional background, accomplishments, and expertise to ensure the company's success.

Wells Fargo has demonstrated consistent financial performance over the years, driven by its diverse business segments and strategic initiatives. The company has reported steady revenue growth, reflecting its ability to attract and retain a large customer base. Wells Fargo's revenue metrics indicate its success in generating income through its various financial services and product offerings.

Earnings metrics illustrate the company's profitability and stability. Wells Fargo's focus on prudent risk management practices and diversified revenue streams contributes to its ability to generate sustainable earnings. Profit margin metrics showcase the efficiency of Wells Fargo's operations. The company's ability to manage costs effectively while generating revenue is key to maintaining healthy profit margins. Debt levels play a significant role in evaluating the company's financial position. Wells Fargo's management strives to maintain a conservative approach to managing debt, ensuring a strong balance sheet and financial stability.

Wells Fargo's valuation metrics are influenced by a range of factors, including its market position, financial performance, growth prospects, risk profile, and investor sentiment. Factors driving Wells Fargo's valuation include its brand recognition, customer base, diversified business segments, and ability to generate consistent earnings. Changes in investor sentiment, market conditions, and regulatory developments can also impact the company's valuation over time.

Investors closely monitor Wells Fargo's stock performance, assessing its ability to deliver value over the long term. The stock has had issues in the past due to news or events that have affected the company's share price, such as regulatory actions, the global pandemic, and strategic initiatives. These factors should be considered in analyzing its market performance.

Wells Fargo operates in the highly competitive financial services industry, which is subject to evolving regulatory frameworks and technological advancements. Understanding the broader industry in which the company operates is crucial to assessing its competitive positioning.

Wells Fargo competes with other major banks and financial institutions domestically and internationally. The company leverages its brand recognition, extensive product and service offerings, customer relationships, and technological capabilities to gain a competitive advantage. However, it also faces challenges such as regulatory compliance, changing customer preferences, and disruptive market forces.

Wells Fargo has identified several growth opportunities within its diverse business segments. The company aims to deepen relationships with existing customers, attract new customers and expand its presence in key markets. In consumer banking, Wells Fargo focuses on enhancing digital capabilities, improving customer experience, and providing innovative solutions to meet evolving customer needs. The company seeks to leverage its strong brand and customer base to drive growth and increase customer loyalty. In wealth and investment management, Wells Fargo aims to capitalize on the growing demand for comprehensive financial planning and advisory services. The company's expertise in wealth management positions it well to capture opportunities in an increasingly complex investment landscape.

As with any financial institution, Wells Fargo faces various risks and challenges. It is important to comprehensively analyze potential risks and challenges to understand their potential impact on the company's performance. Factors such as regulatory changes, cybersecurity threats, economic downturns, and reputational risks pose challenges to Wells Fargo's operations. The company has implemented robust risk management strategies, invested in technology and security measures, and enhanced compliance frameworks to mitigate these risks. Ongoing efforts to prioritize ethical conduct, transparency, and stakeholder trust are integral to managing risks effectively.
The following companies are subsidiares of SSAB AB (publ): Abraservice Belgium SA, Abraservice CZ Sro, Abraservice Deutschland GmbH, Abraservice France SAS, Abraservice Holding, Abraservice Holding SAS, Abraservice Iberica INT. SAU, Abraservice Italia SpA, Abraservice Lyon SAS, Abraservice Nederland BV, Abraservice Ozel Celik Ltd Si, Abraservice Polska Sp.z.o.o, Abraservice Portugal LDA, Abraservice UK, Alamentti Oy, BevakningsAB Foretagsskydd, E.M. Eriksson Steel Service Center AB, EO Stdl AB, Fonciere Saint-Marcel, Forvaltnings AB Tegelhogen, G & G Mining Fabrication, G&G Mining Fabrication Pty Ltd, Geha Beheer BV, Hard Wear Inc, Hardox Wearparts Center Gauteng, Hardox Wearparts Center Stirling Ltd., JL Steel Ltd, Kiinteisto Oy Kauhavan Metallitie 4, LLC Ruukki Investment Ukraine, LLC Ruukki Ukraine, Linkopings Stdl AB, MS Cite SARL, Metform Oy, Piristeel Oy, Plannja A/S, Plannja AB, Plannja Forvaltnings AB, Plannja SPz.o.o, Plannja SibaAB, Plannja SteinwallsAB, Plotdepan i Borlange AB, Presteel Oy, Rannila Uu, Rautaruukki Corporation, Rautaruukki Oyj, Rautaruukki Uu, Ruukki Building Components AS, Ruukki Building Systems Oy, Ruukki Building Systems s.r.o., Ruukki Building Systems sp.z.0.0., Ruukki Bulgaria EOOD, Ruukki CZ s.r.o., Ruukki Construction Norge AS, Ruukki Construction Oy, Ruukki Engineering Oy, Ruukki Finance B.V., Ruukki Holding AB, Ruukki Holding B.V., Ruukki Hungray Kft, Ruukki Latvia SIA, Ruukki Lietuva UAB, Ruukki Metals Trading & Marketing India Private Limited, Ruukki Polska Spj'o.o., Ruukki Products AS, Ruukki Romania S.R.L., Ruukki Slovakia s.r.o., Ruukki Sverige AB, Ruukki UK Ltd, Ruukki d.o.o., SC Ptannja SRL. Romania, SSA8 Swedish Steel (China) Co. Ltd., SSA8 Swedish Steel Comercio Aqo Ltda., SSA8 Swedish Steel Eesti OU, SSA8 Swedish Steel India CIS, SSA8 Swedish Steel India PVT Ltd, SSA8 Swedish Steel Indonesia, SSA8 Swedish Steel Int. Trade (Kunshan) Co, SSA8 Swedish Steel Lda, SSA8 Swedish Steel d.o.o., SSAB APAC Holding AB, SSAB Adriatic d.o.o., SSAB Alabama Inc., SSAB Americas Holding AB, SSAB Argentina SRL, SSAB Bulgaria Ltd, SSAB Central Inc., SSAB Columbia SAS., SSAB Construction Inc., SSAB Danmark A/S, SSAB EMEA AB, SSAB Egypt LLC, SSAB Enterprises LLC, SSAB Europe Oy, SSAB Europe SSCAB, SSAB Finance Ireland, SSAB Hardox P.R. (SSAB Swedish Steel (Tianjin) Co. Ltd.), SSAB Hardox Stahl GmbH, SSAB Holding Danmark A/S, SSAB Inc, SSAB Iowa, SSAB Israel Ltd, SSAB Minnesota Inc., SSAB Nordic Steel AB, SSAB Oxeldsund AB Sucursal Del, SSAB Poland Sp.z.o.0. Poland, SSAB Sales Inc., SSAB Saudi Factory LLC, SSAB South Africa Pty Ltd, SSAB Swedish Steel (Thailand) Co. Ltd., SSAB Swedish Steel Aceros de Chile Limitada, SSAB Swedish Steel BV, SSAB Swedish Steel FZE, SSAB Swedish Steel LLC, SSAB Swedish Steel LLP, SSAB Swedish Steel Ltd, SSAB Swedish Steel Ltd. Shanghai, SSAB Swedish Steel Ltd. UK, SSAB Swedish Steel Pte Ltd., SSAB Swedish Steel Pty Ltd., SSAB Swedish Steel SARL, SSAB Swedish Steel SRL, SSAB Swedish Steel Sdn Bhd, SSAB Swedish Steel SpA, SSAB Swedish Steel Strip Products INt Trade (Kunshan), SSAB Swedish Steel Taiwan Ltd., SSAB Swedish Steel Trading Kft, SSAB Swedish Steel Trading Ltd. Ungern, SSAB Swedish Steel s.r.o., SSAB Swedish Steel , SSAB Swedish Steel. Hong Kong, SSAB Swedish Steel. Japan, SSAB Technology AB, SSAB Texas Inc., SSAB US Holding Inc., SSAB Wear Solutions LLC, SSABMeroxAB, Steinwalls Plat AB, Swedish Steel AB Mexico Sa De CV, Tappers Stal & Metaller AB, Tibnor AB, Tibnor AS, Tibnor Estonia AS, Tibnor LannaAB, Tibnor Oy, UABRuukki Lietuva, and ipsco inc.

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NiSource Inc., an energy holding company, operates as a regulated natural gas and electric utility company in the United States. It operates through two segments, Gas Distribution Operations and Electric Operations. The company distributes natural gas to approximately 859,000 customers in northern Indiana, as well as approximately 2.4 million residential, commercial, and industrial customers in Ohio, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Kentucky, and Maryland. It operates approximately 54,800 miles of distribution main pipelines, as well as associated individual customer service lines; and 1,000 miles of transmission main pipelines. The company generates, transmits, and distributes electricity to approximately 486,000 customers in 20 counties in the northern part of Indiana, as well as engages in wholesale electric and transmission transactions. It owns and operates coal-fired electric generating stations with a capacity of 722 megawatts (MW) in Wheatfield and 455 MW in Michigan City; combined cycle gas turbine with a capacity of 563 MW in West Terre Haute; natural gas generating units with a capacity of 155 MW in Wheatfield; hydro generating plants with a capacity of 9 MW in Carroll County and 7 MW in White County; and wind generating units with a capacity of 102 MW and 302 MW in White County, Indiana. The company was formerly known as NIPSCO Industries, Inc. and changed its name to NiSource Inc. in April 1999. NiSource Inc. was founded in 1847 and is headquartered in Merrillville, Indiana.
The Toronto-Dominion Bank, also known as TD Bank, is a Canadian multinational bank that provides a wide range of financial services to customers in Canada, the United States, and worldwide. The bank was founded in 1855 in Toronto, Canada, and has since grown to become one of the largest banks in North America, with over 85,000 employees and more than 26 million customers. TD Bank is headquartered in Toronto, Canada, and has additional offices in New York City and other major cities throughout the United States.

TD Bank's key highlights and achievements include its status as the sixth-largest bank in North America by assets, its recognition as one of Canada's Best Managed Companies for 20 consecutive years, and its commitment to sustainability and corporate responsibility.

The management team at TD Bank is led by Chief Executive Officer Bharat Masrani, who has been with the company for over 30 years and has held various senior leadership positions before being appointed CEO in 2014.

Regarding financial performance, TD Bank has delivered consistent results over the past few years, with revenue and net income increasing yearly for the past several years. The bank's profit margins have also remained robust, with an average net profit margin of 25%. However, TD Bank has also faced challenges related to debt levels and changes in ownership, with a recent decrease in ownership by TD Ameritrade Holding Corporation. Regarding valuation, TD Bank's price-to-earnings and price-to-book ratios align with industry peers. The company's market performance has also been relatively stable, with modest price movements and steady trading volume over the past few years.

TD Bank operates in a highly competitive and regulated industry, with other major players, including the Bank of Montreal, Royal Bank of Canada, and Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce. The broader banking industry is also subject to regulatory and political issues, such as changes in interest rates and financial regulations.

Despite these challenges, TD Bank has identified growth opportunities in new markets and product areas. These include launching new digital banking services and expanding the bank's presence in key markets such as the United States and Asia. TD Bank has also made several acquisitions in recent years, including the addition of Scottrade Bank in 2017 and the purchase of Chrysler Financial in 2011.

However, TD Bank also faces several risks and challenges, such as changes in consumer preferences and increased competition from fintech startups. The bank's focus on sustainability and corporate responsibility also presents risks related to environmental and social factors, such as climate change and social inequality. There are also recession risks involved. TD Bank could face challenges if there is a downturn in the economy.
Martin Scorsese has been confirmed as a special guest of the upcoming Marrakech International Film Festival as it gears up for its 20th edition, running from November 24 to December 2.

Scorsese, whose new movie Killers of the Flower Moon begins its worldwide rollout in early October, is a long-time supporter of the Moroccan festival and has attended five times.

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As well as participating in this years 20th edition celebrations, he has also agreed to take on the role of patron of the sixth edition of the Atlas Workshops, the festivals industry program dedicated to emerging talent from the African continent and the Arab world.

I am always happy to be returning to my beloved Marrakech Film Festivalwhen I havent been able to attend in person, Ive always been there in spirit, Scorsese said in a statement.

For this very special anniversary edition of the festival, I have been entrusted with a precious task: to interact with young filmmakers and help to guide them on their way. I look forward to seeing old friends, and to making new ones.

Launched by Marrakech in 2018, the Atlas Workshops has supported more than 111 projects and films over its first five editions.

Four of the Middle East and North Africa titles playing in Cannes this year had gone through its program, including Un Certain Regard Best Director winner The Mother Of All Lies by Asmae El Moudir (which also won Lil dOr for Best Documentary) and Un Certain Regard Jury Prize winner Hounds by Kamal Lazraq.

Amjad Al Rasheeds Inshallah A Boy, which screened in Criticss Week and has since been selected for TIFF, and Directors Fortnight title Deserts by Faouzi Bensaidi were also past participants.

Scorsese will take part in several sessions with the project teams in attendance.

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His presence will inaugurate a new initiative under which a major figure of world cinema will be invited to mentor the Atlas Workshops and then the participants will bear the name of that years patron.

As such, 2023s Atlas Workshop filmmakers will be known as the Class of Martin Scorsese.

The sixth edition of the workshops will run from November 27 to 30. The project selection has yet to be announced. The call for entries for projects in development closed on July 20 , while the deadline for films in production or post-production is September 21.

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Siddharth Upasani is a Special Correspondent at Moneycontrol. He has been covering the Indian economy, economic data, and monetary and fiscal policies for nine years. He tweets at @SiddharthUbiWan. Contact: siddharth.upasani@nw18.com
He's so far ahead in the polls that he felt comfortable skipping the first GOP presidential debate in Milwaukee, while on the actual debate stage, his epigone, Vivek Ramaswamy, soaked up an outsized portion of the attention.

The 38-year-old billionaire biotech entrepreneur shows that the Trump brand is so strong that it can create successful subsidiaries, the Trump storyline so compelling that subplots can be spun off into their own programs.

Thursday night was a 'MAGA' tag team, with Trump trying to detract from the debate from the outside and Ramaswamy shaking it up on the inside.

When Trump declared a victor afterwards, it was, unsurprisingly, Ramaswamy -- for having the courage and perspicacity to declare Donald Trump the greatest president of the 21st century.

If Ramaswamy minds these occasional condescending pats on the head, he hasn't yet showed any sign of it. He is making history as the first presidential candidate to be in the tank for his leading opponent.

Ramaswamy's devotion to Trump raises the natural question why he's in the race and running the risk of denying everyone the benefits of a Trump second term? Why should the pilot fish try to supplant the shark?

Ramaswamy has learned shrewdly from the power of the Trump phenomenon. The first lesson is that if you want to benefit from the energetic support of MAGA, you have to be pro-Trump. Many candidates, media figures, and social media influencers long ago figured this out. Ramaswamy's truly audacious innovation is to apply this insight to his own presidential campaign in a race including Trump himself.

If Ramaswamy leaps ahead of Gov. Ron DeSantis into second place in national polls, the top of the GOP field will consist of Donald Trump and a pro-Trump alternative who is zealous in defense of Trump's interests and loath to criticize him for anything.

The second lesson is that whatever gets the spotlight directed your way is a good thing. If it means, on the basis of no evidence whatsoever, accusing all your opponents on the debate stage of being "bought and paid for," go for it. If it means attributing the hawkishness of Nikki Haley on Ukraine to her intention to get lucrative seats on the boards of defense contractors, why not?

If a given proposition is indefensible, it means that you will seem even more courageous to your fans when you advance it or defend it.

Relatedly, always paint with bold colors. At one point during the debate, DeSantis objected to questions that asked candidates to raise their hands as childishly simplistic. In contrast, Ramaswamy was happy to raise his hand, reaching toward the sky with the overeagerness of an apple-polishing student sitting in the front row.

Would he support Trump as the nominee even if he's convicted of crimes? Hand raise. Will he cut off aid for Ukraine? Hand raise.

Finally, never get separated from Trump on anything important. As Trump has defended Jan. 6, so has Ramaswamy found unpersuasive justifications for it. Since Mike Pence has been cast into the outer darkness by MAGA for doing his constitutional duty on Jan. 6, Ramaswamy is going to have nothing to do with the former vice president. He refused to say on the debate stage that Pence had done the right thing that day but did want to make it clear that he would absolutely pardon Donald Trump as president.

That Ramaswamy would accuse others of bad faith is hilarious, given his own blatant pandering.

And the answer to the paradox of a pro-Trump candidate running against Trump is that every vote Ramaswamy gets is denied to some other non-Trump contender who might be a more serious threat to the former president.

Ramaswamy may deny that this is the dynamic, but Donald Trump clearly understands it, which is why he has nothing but praise for his notional opponent.

(COMMENT, BELOW)
Jimmy Lippert Thyden with his mother (AP/ Maria Angelica Gonzalez/ Nos Buscamos)

A Chilean man who was adopted after his mother was told he had died in child birth has been reunited with her after 42 years.

Jimmy Lippert Thyden was taken from his mothers arms in hospital and adopted by another family as part of a trafficking ring.

A campaign group Nos Buscamos has reunited Maria Angelica Gonzalez with her son after unearthing documents uncovering the wrongdoing.

Thyden had been born prematurely at a hospital in Santiago, Chiles capital, and placed in an incubator.

Gonzalez was told to leave the hospital, but when she returned to get her baby, she was told he had died and his body had been disposed of, according to the case file.

I love you very much, Jimmy Lippert Thyden told his mother in Spanish as they embraced amid tears.

It knocked the wind out of me. ... I was suffocated by the gravity of this moment, Thyden told The Associated Press in a video call after the reunion. How do you hug someone in a way that makes up for 42 years of hugs?

His journey to find the birth family he never knew began in April after he read news stories about Chilean-born adoptees who had been reunited with their birth relatives with the help of Nos Buscamos.

Thyden, who is a defence attorney in the US said: The paperwork I have for my adoption tells me I have no living relatives. And I learned in the last few months that I have a mama and I have four brothers and a sister.

Nos Buscamos estimates tens of thousands of babies were taken from Chilean families in the 1970s and 1980s, based on a report from the Investigations Police of Chile which reviewed the paper passports of Chilean children who left the country and never came back.

Constanza del Rio, founder and director and Nos Buscamos. said: The real story was these kids were stolen from poor families, poor women that didnt know. They didnt know how to defend themselves.

The child-trafficking coincided with many other human rights violations that took place during the 17-year reign of General Augusto Pinochet, who in 1973 led a Chilean coup to overthrow Marxist President Salvador Allende.

During the dictatorship, at least 3,095 people were killed, according to government figures, and tens of thousands more were tortured or jailed for political reasons.
Abhishek Sahu covers HR and Education (Careers) at Moneycontrol. He can be reached at Abhishek.Sahu@nw18.com and @Abhishek44sahu.
The market on August 29 continued its upward journey for the second consecutive session but with volatility and amid consolidation. The Nifty faced strong resistance at 19,350-19,400; hence breaking the level decisively can lift the index towards 19,500-19,600, whereas the support is expected to remain at 19,250, experts said.

The BSE Sensex rose 79 points to 65,076, while the Nifty50 climbed 37 points to 19,343, and formed a bearish candlestick pattern on the daily charts as the closing was lower than opening levels, but continued making higher tops and higher bottoms formation for yet another session.

"On the daily charts, we can observe that the Nifty has been hovering around the 40-day moving average (19,359) since the past couple of trading sessions. As long as the Nifty holds above 19,250, we can expect the consolidation to continue," Jatin Gedia, technical research analyst at Sharekhan by BNP Paribas said.

On the downside, he feels 19,250-19,230 is the crucial support zone while on the upside, 19,450-19,470 shall act as a crucial resistance from a short-term perspective.

"Daily and hourly momentum indicators have a positive crossover, which is a buy signal. However, prices are trading at a resistance and hence we shall wait for a price confirmation," he said.

The broader markets continued their northward journey, with the Nifty Midcap 100 and Smallcap 100 indices rising 0.3 percent and 0.5 percent respectively.

We have collated 15 data points to help you spot profitable trades:

Note: The open interest (OI) and volume data of stocks are the aggregates of three-month data and not just the current month.

Key support and resistance levels on Nifty

The pivot point calculator indicates that the Nifty may get support at 19,317, followed by 19,301 and 19,274. In case of an upside, 19,370 can be the key resistance, followed by 19,386 and 19,412.

Nifty Bank

On August 29, the Bank Nifty ended the volatile session on a flat note, rising just 0.6 points to 44,495.3 and forming a bearish candlestick pattern on the daily charts, but made higher highs and higher lows formation for yet another session.

"The Bank Nifty index remains engaged in a struggle between bulls and bears, resulting in a phase of sideways trading. The Option data reflects a broad range, with notable open interest concentrations at both the 44,000 Put strike and the 45,000 Call strike," Kunal Shah, senior technical & derivative analyst at LKP Securities said.

In terms of immediate technical levels, he feels the index faces a resistance obstacle at 44,650. "A decisive breach above this level is anticipated to ignite a fresh upward movement, potentially steering the index towards the 45,000 mark," he said.

The pivot point calculator indicates that the Bank Nifty is likely to take support at 44,440, followed by 44,382 and 44,289. On the upside, the initial resistance is at 44,626, followed by 44,683 and 44,776.

Call options data

As per the options data, the maximum monthly Call open interest (OI) remained at 19,500 strike with 1.38 crore contracts, which can act as a key resistance for the Nifty. It was followed by 19,400 strike, which had 1.18 crore contracts, while 19,600 strike had 94.36 lakh contracts.

The maximum Call writing was seen at 19,400 strike, which added 20.84 lakh contracts, followed by 19,700 and 19,900 strikes, which added 11.55 lakh and 10.34 lakh contracts, respectively.

We have seen the maximum Call unwinding at 19,800 strike, which shed 14.21 lakh contracts, followed by 19,300 strike and 19,000 strike, which shed 6.76 lakh contracts, and 84,300 contracts, respectively.

Put option data

On the Put front, we continued to see the maximum Put open interest at 19,300 strike, with 1.26 crore contracts. This can be an important support for Nifty in the coming sessions.

It was followed by 19,000 strike, comprising 1.09 crore contracts, and 19,200 strike with 97.2 lakh contracts.

The maximum Put writing was seen at 19,300 strike, which added 18.28 lakh contracts, followed by 19,100 strike and 19,000 strike, which added 15.4 lakh and 14.99 lakh contracts, respectively.

Meaningful Put unwinding was at 18,700 strike, which shed 9.81 lakh contracts, followed by 18,600 and 18,500 strikes, which shed 5.32 lakh and 2.32 lakh contracts, respectively.

Stocks with high delivery percentage

A high delivery percentage suggests that investors are showing interest in the stock. Infosys, Alkem Laboratories, SBI Life Insurance Company, Bharti Airtel, and UltraTech Cement were among the stocks that saw the highest delivery.

40 stocks see a long build-up

Deepak Nitrite, Ashok Leyland, Jubilant Foodworks, TVS Motor Company, and NTPC were among the 40 stocks to see a long build-up. An increase in open interest (OI) and price indicates a build-up of long positions.

40 stocks see long unwinding

Based on the OI percentage, 40 stocks, including Ipca Laboratories, Bata India, Dr Lal PathLabs, ICICI Lombard General Insurance, and IndiaMART InterMESH saw long unwinding. A decline in OI and price indicates long unwinding.

19 stocks see a short build-up

A short build-up was seen in 19 stocks, including Aditya Birla Capital, Balrampur Chini Mills, AU Small Finance Bank, HDFC AMC, and M&M Financial Services. An increase in OI along with a fall in price points to a build-up of short positions.

88 stocks see short-covering

Based on the OI percentage, 88 stocks were on the short-covering list. These included Persistent Systems, Bosch, Coforge, India Cements, and UltraTech Cement. A decrease in OI along with a price increase is an indication of short-covering.

Bulk deals

(For more bulk deals, click here)

Investors meeting on August 30

Stocks in the news

Lupin: Subsidiary Lupin Pharma Canada has launched Propranolol LA (long-acting) capsules, with 60 mg, 80 mg, 120 mg and 160 mg strengths in Canada. Propranolol LA is a generic equivalent of Inderal LA, which is used to treat heart problems, anxiety, and migraines.

Zomato: SoftBank Vision Fund (SVF Global) is likely to offload 1.17 percent stake it holds in food delivery giant Zomato for Rs 940 crore via a block deal, CNBC TV-18 reported citing sources. A total of 10 crore shares will be sold by SVF Growth Fund, at a price of Rs 94 apiece, the sources added. Svf Growth (Singapore) Pte Ltd holds 3.35 percent stake in Zomato as of June 2023.

Central Bank of India: The public sector lender has entered into a strategic co-lending partnership with IKF Home Finance to offer MSME and home loans. IKF Home Finance manages assets totalling Rs 696.10 crore via operations in 6 states. Also, Central Bank of India entered into a strategic co-lending partnership with Samunnati Financial Intermediation & Services to offer agriculture and MSME loans. Samunnati is functioning in 22 states, with an AUM of Rs 1,150 crore.

GR Infraprojects: Subsidiaries GR Belgaum Raichur (Package-5) Highway Private Limited and GR Belgaum Raichur (package-6) Highway Private Limited, have executed the concession agreement, for road projects worth Rs 1,457.24 crore, with the National Highways Authority of India.

MPS: Subsidiary MPS Interactive Systems has agreed to acquire 65 percent stake in Liberate Group (comprising Liberate Learning Pty Ltd (Australia), Liberate eLearning Pty Ltd (Australia), App-eLearn Pty Ltd (Australia), and Liberate Learning (New Zealand)). The remaining 35 percent shareholding of each of the entities of the Liberate Group will be acquired by MPSi in subsequent tranches.

SBFC Finance: The non-banking finance company has recorded a standalone net profit of Rs 47 crore for the quarter ended June FY24, rising 46.5 percent over Rs 32 crore profit in the year-ago period. Net interest income grew by 40.6 percent on-year to Rs 141 crore during the same quarter.

Fund Flow (Rs Crore)

FII and DII data

Foreign institutional investors (FII) bought shares worth Rs 61.51 crore, while domestic institutional investors (DII) purchased Rs 305.09 crore worth of stocks on August 29, provisional data from the National Stock Exchange (NSE) showed.

Stocks under F&O ban on NSE

The NSE has retained Escorts Kubota, GMR Airports Infrastructure, Hindustan Copper, Indiabulls Housing Finance, Manappuram Finance, RBL Bank, and Sun TV Network to its F&O ban list for August 30, while removing BHEL, and India Cements from the said list.

Securities 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.

Disclaimer: Moneycontrol is a part of the Network18 group. Network18 is controlled by Independent Media Trust, of which Reliance Industries is the sole beneficiary.
American travelers  at least those of the cautious variety  might be familiar with the US State Departments travel advisories.

The agency monitors the world for potential trouble and issues warnings from Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions to Level 4: Do Not Travel, alerting would-be visitors to terrorism threats, war, arbitrary enforcement of local laws, high crime rates and other personal security issues.

But have you ever wondered how other countries governments caution their citizens about coming to the United States? What kind of reputation does America have?

After all, the rate of gun-related deaths in the United States has been going up in recent years.

Mass shootings have become downright commonplace: 690 in 2021; 647 in 2022; and 476 as of 6 a.m. ET August 29, 2023, according to Gun Violence Archive.

The worst of the mass shootings make headlines  not just in the United States but worldwide. And while mass shootings generate the most attention, they account for a small fraction of the overall gun-related deaths in the United States.

CNN Travel keeps a periodic check on what the governments of the United States neighbors and closest allies tell their citizens about coming here. Its not exactly a flattering picture.

Would-be visitors arent being warned off entirely as if America is an active war zone. Each nation has its own approach, but a general theme boils down to this: The United States is more violent than what youre used to. Learn to take precautions that you might not have to take at home.

The other takeaway: Violent crime rarely involves tourists.

Heres more on what nine countries  which account for a good chunk of the international tourism traffic to the United States  have to say:

Australia

In 1996, 35 people were killed in a mass shooting in Port Arthur on the island of Tasmania. In the wake of the massacre, Australia passed stricter gun control laws that included a near ban on all fully automatic or semiautomatic firearms, according to Britannica online encyclopedia.

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So for more than 25 years, Australians have lived in quite a different gun culture than that of Americans.

The Australian government warns its citizens who plan to visit the United States that violent crime is more common than in Australia and gun crime is possible in all areas. It instructs Australians to follow local guidance and instructions. Theyre encouraged to learn active shooter drills if they live in the United States.

On its SmartTraveller website, the Australian government also reminds would-be travelers that although tourists are rarely targeted, there is always a risk of being in the wrong place at the wrong time. It does not provide notice of specific incidents unless theres a significant risk to Australians.

Still, its not warning its citizens off US travel. As of August 29, it advised to exercise normal safety precautions in the United States of America.

Canada

The Ambassador Bridge spans the Detroit River to connect Windsor, Ontario, to Detroit, Michigan. - Tara Walton/The Washington Post/Getty Images

Canada advises its citizens to take normal security precautions when visiting the United States.

The Canadian government cautions its citizens about crossing the US-Mexico border by car, citing criminal incidents associated with drug trafficking. It tells its citizens to avoid traveling at night at the border.

It also warns about gang- and organized crime-related violence in large urban areas, noting that violent crime rarely affects tourists, but cautioning travelers to be mindful of their surroundings.

The government also reminds Canadians of the frequent mass shootings in the United States. Incidences of mass shootings occur, resulting most often in casualties. Although tourists are rarely involved, there is a risk of being in the wrong place at the wrong time.

United Kingdom

The United Kingdom reminds would-be visitors to America that incidents of mass shooting can occur, but account for a very small percentage of homicide deaths. It advises UK citizens to read over an active shooter guide (PDF) from the US Department of Homeland Security.

It also tells its citizens that violent crime, including gun crime, rarely involves tourists, but you should take care when traveling in unfamiliar areas. Avoid walking through less traveled areas alone, especially at night.

Like Canada, the United Kingdom cautions its people about the US-Mexico border.

Lauren Redfern, a London resident in her early 30s who was completing a PhD in medical anthropology, made extensive trips to the United States in 2018 (Chicago to New Orleans) and 2022 (Los Angeles).

She told CNN Travel in the summer of 2022 that she had awareness about US gun violence as she started her 2018 trip, but she felt far removed from it. At that time, I absolutely wouldnt consider doing anything differently than shed do in the United Kingdom.

But while staying in an Airbnb in New Orleans, she was doing laundry in a common area when someone cracked open a door and poked in the barrel of a shotgun.

No shots were fired, but it was this weird, out-of-body experience where it really made me think and appreciate and understand oh, this is very real on a level I have never experienced and will never experience in the UK.

That experience definitely changed my sense of personal safety while traveling in the US, Redfern said.

It didnt deter her from making another US trip, but it changed the way I thought about American culture. Shes much less likely now to venture out alone when visiting the United States versus London, where she has no worries about doing so.

Israel

Israel is no stranger to strife and violence. Unlike many countries, its focus for its citizens abroad is on targeted terrorism. - Uriel Sinai/Getty Images

Israel is a very security-minded country with special ties to the United States.

It issues warnings on a scale of 01 to 04, the latter being of the highest risk level. Israels travel warnings are focused on terrorism directed specifically at its citizens when abroad vs. more general crime worries.

For example, people are warned away from the North African nation of Algeria, which has an 04 ranking because of terror groups and hostility towards Israel on the Algerian street.

However, the United States is rated at 01 (ordinary precautions) despite a rise in anti-Semitic incidents.

France



The French Ministry of Foreign Affairs has a different take.

It says generally the United States of America is among the safest countries, but it does warn French citizens about some urban areas and notes an increase in carjackings.

Interestingly, the ministry breaks down potential threats to specific neighborhoods in cities. A couple of examples:

 In Boston, it is recommended to avoid traveling alone, on foot and at night, in certain parts of Dorchester, Mattapan and Roxbury.

 In Atlanta, French visitors are told to be vigilant in isolated areas of the city center (downtown) after the close of business and favor taxi travel at night.

Germany

German airline Lufthansa ferries many people between the United States and Europe. - Courtesy AirlingRatings.com

Germany is another US ally with strong tourism ties, and it has strict gun laws and a much lower rate of firearm homicides compared with the United States. Its even lower than some of its European neighbors and allies.

Its Ministry of Foreign Affairs tells German citizens that it is easy to obtain guns in the United States, leading to increased use of guns and occasional killing sprees. The number of arms and ammunition purchases has increased significantly during the Covid-19 pandemic.

It also warns would-be visitors to the US about the possibilities of domestic clashes over racism and police violence, advising them to avoid gatherings of people in the vicinity of which violence could possibly occur.

Interestingly, the German government also warns its citizens  who are more used to going bare  about skinny dipping and topless sunbathing.

Mexico

The Mexican government has recently overhauled its travel website for its citizens planning to visit the United States.

Before the overhaul, the Mexican government had warnings that historical racial and ethnic tension, including opposition to immigration, have led to attacks by violent extremist groups and advised its citizens to avoid large crowds in the United States.

As of August 28, the site no longer carried any warnings about mass shootings or general crime in the United States. However, visitors planning a trip to Florida were cautioned about the states new immigration law, specifically about transporting people to the state who arent in the United States legally.

The site also cautioned that the Florida authorities authorized several bills that could have an unfavorable impact on the LGBTQ+ community and warned about the prohibition of transgender people to use bathrooms and changing rooms that align with the way they live their lives in publicly owned or leased buildings, and even in airports, government buildings, convention centers, parks, school campuses and stadiums.

Japan

A Japan Airlines passenger jet takes off from Haneda Airport in Tokyo. The Japanese government gives its citizens explicit instructions on what to do if caught in an active shooter incident in the United States. - Kazuhiro Nogi/AFP/Getty Images

Despite the shocking assassination of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe in July 2022, Japan has a homicide rate far below the United States.

So its no surprise that the government warns that it is important to recognize that the security situation is very different between the United States and Japan, and to understand what kind of crime victims are at high risk in what areas.

It says one of the main security concerns in the United States is gun crime and offers a lot of advice for getting out of or hunkering down in possible active shooter situations, including:

 Find security exits in a new place and have an evacuation plan

 Hide in a room and barricade the door using heavy furniture

 Keep quiet and mute cell phones

If a Japanese tourist cant escape or hide, theyre advised to throw objects nearby at the criminal or use them as weapons.

New Zealand

As of August 28, Australias island neighbor had an exercise increased caution (level 2 of 4) alert for the United States due to the threat of terrorism.

New Zealands SAFETRAVEL website goes on to warn its citizens that there is a higher incidence of violent crime and firearm possession than in New Zealand. In many states, it is legal for United States citizens to openly carry firearms in public.

Violent crime has targeted individuals and groups from the LGBTQIA+ community and those with diverse ethnic, cultural and religious backgrounds. However, crime rates vary considerably across cities and suburbs and while tourists are rarely targeted, there is always a risk of being in the wrong place at the wrong time.

It suggests that people coming to the United States research their specific destinations before traveling and seek local advice.

SAFETRAVEL guides New Zealanders to an active shooter response pamphlet put out by the US Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency.

CNNs Haley Wilson contributed research for this article.

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Mehul R Thakkar is Special Correspondent, Moneycontrol, Indias leading financial news platform, based in Mumbai where he is focussed on covering the real estate sector.
(Bloomberg) -- Staring at a March 4 trial on 2020 election obstruction charges, Donald Trumps legal team has one possible strategy to delay or avoid it altogether: Tee up a high-stakes presidential immunity fight for the US Supreme Court.

Most Read from Bloomberg

While the courts usually shield US presidents from most lawsuits, Trump already lost an immunity bid against civil litigation seeking to hold him liable for the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the US Capitol. But his appeal of that ruling has been pending for more than a year, offering a template for how he might try to postpone his Washington criminal trial over efforts to reverse the 2020 election.

Trumps legal team hasnt asked for immunity in the criminal case yet, but it is expected to argue that hes entitled to sweeping protection against prosecution for actions he took related to his White House duties.

During a hearing on Monday, Trumps attorney John Lauro said that the Supreme Court hadnt ruled on the bounds of executive immunity in a criminal case. His preview of the immunity issue failed to persuade US District Judge Tanya Chutkan to adopt the 2026 trial date that Trump wanted, but Lauro said that if the Trump team does pursue it, theyll likely ask her to pause the criminal trial until the issue is fully resolved.

The strategy is a long shot because US appellate judges typically frown on hearing cases until theres a final judgment and theres a history of public officials prosecuted over actions they took while in office, said Brandon Fox, a former federal prosecutor who oversaw public corruption cases in Chicago and central California.

Read More: Trump Trial Set for March 4 in DOJ 2020 Election Case

Story continues

The Supreme Court has ruled on issues related to when presidents and executive branch officials can be civilly sued or subject to criminal investigations, but no sitting or former president has been federally indicted before.

Its unprecedented, Fox said, referring to the prosecution of a former president over events that took place while he was in the White House.

In 1982, the justices ruled in Nixon v. Fitzgerald that a president was entitled to absolute immunity against civil damages claims related to their official actions. In 1997, the court explored how to handle allegations related to private conduct, holding that then President Bill Clinton could face a civil lawsuit over events that predated his time in office.

And in 2020, the justices held that Trump wasnt entitled to immunity as president against a grand jury subpoena for his tax records in connection with a criminal investigation by New York state prosecutors  a probe that ultimately led to charges earlier this year accusing him of falsifying business records.

The Justice Department has a longstanding policy against prosecuting a sitting president, but thats not binding on courts and is focused on the effect on their ability to perform their duties in office.

Trump has pleaded not guilty to federal charges that he conspired to criminally interfere with the results of the 2020 presidential election, with allegations spanning the two-month period between the November general election and the Jan. 6 attack. It is one of four criminal indictments entered against the former president this year.

There have been several civil cases filed against Trump by law enforcement officers and congressional Democrats, focused on whether hes directly responsible for the violence at the Capitol and the disruption of Congress certification of the election results. Those suits also touch on his activities leading to Jan. 6.

In February 2022, US District Judge Amit Mehta rejected Trumps argument that he was entitled to absolute immunity, finding the alleged conduct  inciting the mob in order to hold onto the presidency  didnt fall under his official duties as president. Mehta said it instead reflected an electoral purpose. Trump appealed to the US Court of Appeals for the DC Circuit the following month.

A three-judge panel heard arguments in December and has yet to release its opinion. Neither side formally asked Mehta to pause the lower court proceedings, but theres been no activity in the district court since it went to the DC Circuit.

If Chutkan refused to put the case on hold while Trump argued for immunity, he could ask the DC Circuit to intervene. If that court also denied the request, he could petition the Supreme Court justices to step in.

Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek

2023 Bloomberg L.P.
David Fickling is a Bloomberg Opinion columnist covering commodities, as well as industrial and consumer companies. Views are personal, and do not represent the stand of this publication.
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Indias non-bank finance companies have had a great run of profitability in FY23 which extended to the first quarter of FY24 as well, notwithstanding the beginnings of challenges on margins. Lenders are now risking this streak as they continue to binge on unsecured retail lending, just like their banking peers. Such has been the rise that the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has sounded a note of caution, again. In a meeting with the top layer of large NBFCs on...

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Former prosecutor Glenn Kirschner on Monday called out Donald Trump lawyer John Lauro for making spurious arguments during his unsuccessful attempt to delay the trial of the former presidents federal election interference case.

Lauro did not do himself any favors, Kirschner, a former U.S. Army prosecutor and current legal analyst for MSNBC, told the networks Joy Reid.

He was a bomb thrower. It sounded like he was making arguments to Donald Trumps base, not to the judge, he added.

U.S. District Judge Tanya Chutkan set a March 4 trial date. Trumps legal team wanted it to begin in April 2026.

Chutkan described as misleading Lauros claim that some cases were taking months and months to come to trial, said Kirschner, who was in court for the trial date announcement.

Some pandemic-era cases did, Kirschner noted, but its not usual now.

Im sure people would agree with me that when a judge tells you that youve put something in a legal filing that is misleading, its kind of like a dagger to the heart. We dont take it kindly, said Kirschner. But thats what she told the defense counsel. And she was right.

Related...
Artificial Intelligence

Several Universities Partner with EdX to Offer AI Boot Camps in Fall 2023

Online learning platform edX has announced AI boot camps to start this fall at several universities nationwide. The online program will be especially geared to early- and mid-career professionals who wish to build AI skills rapidly for entry-level positions, the company said.

The part-time, 24-week program will teach topics in data science, machine learning, and AI, including "Python, unsupervised and supervised machine learning, transformers, natural language processing, AI applications, time series forecasting, and AI and data ethics," edX said. Classes will be taught live by industry professionals, with students assisted by on-demand tutors.

The boot camps will start in September 2023 at the following schools (follow links for more information): Michigan State University, University of Denver, The Ohio State University College of Engineering, and Southern Methodist University. Registration for these university boot camp courses is available at the edX boot camp page.

Classes will start in November at Columbia University's Fu Foundation School of Engineering and Applied Science, University of Utah, and University of North Carolina at Charlotte.

In a recent edX survey conducted across the U.S., 42% of technical hiring managers said job candidates will need AI skills to get hired, but less than 20% currently have them. In the same survey, 82% of learners said they researched AI education programs in the last six months, and edX said there has been an 80% increase in searches for AI on its website in that period.

"Every individual, irrespective of their profession or trade, stands to benefit from a fundamental understanding of AI  it is now a requisite literacy in our times," said Anant Agarwal, founder of edX and chief platform officer at 2U. "The Artificial Intelligence Boot Camp with edX will help equip more people with the AI knowledge and skills necessary to augment their capabilities and ensure they're harnessing the myriad opportunities unfolding in this fascinating and rapidly shifting technology."

Along with this AI boot camp, edX offers other trainings, including machine learning, AI micro boot camps, and ChatGPT open courses. The open courses are free to audit, the company said. To learn more about edX's offerings, visit the home page.
In todays Money Morningwe have a habit of getting carried away by technological advancementsAI boom, what boom?the role imagination and scepticism play in investingand more

Brain-computer interfaces will soon see us lying on a beach on the east coast of Brazil, controlling a robotic device roving on the surface of Mars.

Fully self-driving cars will be everywhere by 2020.

Electric vehicles will replace all internal combustion engines by 2025.

Advanced economies are on the brink of an AI revolution which could fundamentally change the workspace.

We have a habit of getting carried away by technological advancements.

An exciting new technology can lead to outlandish claims, as feverish extrapolations compound into fanciful projections.

Some of these claims were listed earlier.

Clearly, AI is another major technological advancement set to influence society. But we must not get carried away.

Especially as investors.

Market interest in AI is febrile, with search volume for AI stocks spiking this year:

But a hot theme like this should not be hopped on with abandon.

Investors must figure out whether the AI hype will endure or fade.

Chipmaker Nvidias latest quarterly gave many confirmation the AI boom is here.

Nvidias big numbers

Nvidias 2Q24 results were well ahead of consensus expectations, reporting record revenue of US$13.51 billion, up 88% on the previous quarter and 101% on the previous year.

A huge jump!

Nvidias founder and CEO, Jensen Huang, said a new computing era has begun, an era seemingly in need of Nvidias powerful chips.

Nvidia expects revenue to grow 18% quarter-on-quarter in 3Q24 to US$16 billion.

A very interesting number from the results was the gross margin.

2Q24 gross margin was 70.1%. It was 64.6% in the prior quarter and 43.5% in 2Q23!

That suggests customers were bidding up Nvidias chips, helping quantify Huangs comment that the race is on to adopt generative AI.

Big firms wishing to get ahead in the AI space are willing to pay up for the chips necessary to conduct their work.

But how long can Nvidia hope to bank on this frantic race? What happens when the race stops?

AI boom, what boom?

The AI tide isnt raising all boats, however.

Australias AI-adjacent stock Appen [ASX:APX] sank on Monday after poor results.

Appen describes itself as the market leader in data for the AI lifecycle.

Whether or not thats true, Appen was definitely the leading loser on the All Ords on Monday.

The data services firm closed 32% down, falling to a new 52-week low.

Despite saying generative AI will create a significant growth opportunity for Appen, with the market expected to grow from $8 billion in 2021 to $111 billion in 2030, 1H23 revenue fell 24%, leading to a US$43.3 million loss.

Revenue fell, primarily reflecting a lower contribution from Global Services which recorded a revenue reduction of 27.4% to US$100.1 million.

Revenue from new markets also fell, impacted by a lower contribution from Global Product.

In all, the half-year net loss widened from US$9.4 million to US$43.3 million.

Why is Appen struggling, despite hitching its wagon to the AI bandwagon?

Appen CEO Armughan Ahmad blamed the challenging external environment (which didnt seem to phase Nvidia one bit).

APX said customers cut costs and evaluated their AI strategies in response to external headwinds.

Ahmad said theres a broader technology slowdown, but also said it is an exciting time for AI.

He thinks Appens data and services power the worlds leading AI models.

But if thats true, why the slowdown and the challenging external environment?

Isnt AI adoption in its infancy and only accelerating from here?

AI business models

Its often said the benefits of technological advancements accrue largely to users, not businesses who commercialise the technology.

Thats because transformative technology makes things cheaper.

Take artificial light.

Its cheap enough that we hardly think about it when illuminating our homes or offices.

But two centuries ago, light was a luxury you paid for dearly.

If you wanted to read at night, the book better have been worth it.

Nobel Prize economist William Nordhaus showed that it would cost 400 times what we pay now for the same amount of light.

Subsequent improvements and cost reductions lit up the benighted world (and made office cubicles possible).

This is a key feature of any big technological breakthrough.

As economists Ajay Agrawal, Joshua Gans, and Avi Goldfarb wrote in Prediction Machines, technological change makes things cheap that were once expensive.

The Internet is a great example, and analogous to the advent of AI.

Heres the trio explaining the principle of technologys deflationary tendencies (emphasis added):

[With the Internet], goods and services could be distributed digitally. Communication was easy. And you could find information with the click of a search button. But you could do all of these things before. What had changed was that you could now do them cheaply. The rise of the internet was a drop in the cost of distribution, communication, and search. Reframing a technological advance as a shift from expensive to cheap or from scarce to abundant is invaluable for thinking about how it will affectbusiness.

What will AI make cheaper?

And who will stand to gain the most? The AI businesses or the consumers?

AIs gold rush enriches the peddler of picks and shovels

What are trains for?

What are airplanes for?

In both cases, these inventions were transformative, impactful, and their use cases well-defined.

But its not as clear cut with AI.

What is AI for? Whats its use case?

We are still (as a society, as users, as businesses) figuring out AIs essential use cases, which means its still unclear what business models will win out in the sector.

So the most visible way to play the AI theme currently has been via its basic infrastructure.

Investing in the means that enable AI use cases.

Picks and shovels.

Thats why Nvidia is printing money at the moment, selling the shovels to firms rushing out to hit AI gold.

But what happens when a business overestimates the intensity of the gold rush and overorders the picks and shovels?

Itll be stuck with clattering tools in the warehouse, unused and unwantedyet already paid for.

The expected revenue will not offset the very much realised capital outlay.

Take the large data centre company NEXTDC [ASX:NXT].

In its FY23 results released this week, NEXTDX mentioned the insatiable demand for computational power from AI and cloud.

It thinks its well-placed to serve that demand:

NEXTDC is exiting FY23 in a strong financial position to be able to take advantage of the opportunities presented bythe unprecedented acceleration of AI-driven applications driving one of the most powerful computational transformations in our lifetime.

Given the insatiable demand, NEXTDC said FY24 will be a critical investment year, guiding FY24 capital expenditure to be between $850 million to $900 million.

It was $687 million in FY23.

NEXTDC explained the higher expenditure:

At the core of the future growth of AI and cloud computing lies the pivotal role of the underlying digital infrastructure.

The data centre firm is definitely banking on big usage in the years ahead because it admitted FY24 underlying EBITDA is expected to be flat or down on FY23.

Will the gold rush last long enough for firms like NEXTDC to clear its backlog of picks and shovels?

Imagination and/or scepticism?

All this brings me to the final topic  the role imagination and scepticism play in investing.

Investment ideas about AI involve plenty of imaginative leaps about the future from someand plenty of pooh-poohing by others.

But which tool should get more use?

Growth investors like hedge fund manager Philippe Laffont espouse the importance of imagination.

For Laffont, imagination is the skill, not discount cash flow modelling or financial statement analysis.

But can imagination lead us astray?

Can it lead us to erect castles in the sky?

Scepticism guards against flabby assumptions and identifies gaps where we mistook wishes for evidence.

On the other hand, scepticism can bleed into cynicism.

And a cynical investor is a poor investor, missing every big opportunity.

An extreme sceptic sees little value and realises none.

Maybe we could say that scepticism should serve imagination in coming up with credible ideas well-tested and well-evidenced.

What do you think, what role should imagination and scepticism play in investing?

Regards,





Kiryll Prakapenka,

Editor, Money Morning
Workforce Readiness

University of Texas and Coursera Expand Free Microcredential Program for Students, Faculty, Staff, and Alumni

The University of Texas (UT) system and Coursera have partnered to offer an expanded, free microcredential program to any UT students, educators, staff, and alumni interested in obtaining microcredential certificates to help prepare them for new workforce demands. This is part of UT's Texas Credentials for the Future initiative and will give over 240,000 learners across nine UT campuses access to Coursera's Career Academy.

The Career Academy includes 35 entry-level professional certificates from tech companies such as Google, IBM, Microsoft, and Salesforce, Coursera said, calling it "the most extensive industry-recognized microcredential program from a U.S. university system."

UT and Coursera launched the pilot program of this initiative to select students in December 2022.

"In the first semester, approximately 3,000 students spent 30,000 hours learning online, completing over 6,000 courses," the company said.

In the Career Academy, learners can explore varied careers, such as data analyst, cybersecurity analyst, UX designer, application developer, and social media marketer. They can practice and use their skills and workplace tools in real-world applications, which can increase their job qualifications.

"Microcredentials are a powerful and effective tool in producing graduates who are both broadly educated and specifically skilled, giving them a competitive edge in the labor market while also enhancing their overall undergraduate experience," said James B. Milliken, UT system chancellor.

By 2030, over 60% of Texas jobs will require a higher education degree or certificate, according to a 2022 report by the Texas Commission on Community College Finance, and currently, over half of Texans lack such training.

"We're excited to partner with the University of Texas System to equip 240,000 Texans with in-demand industry skills, supporting local employment and the state's economy," said Jeff Maggioncalda, Coursera CEO. "This system-wide industry microcredential program sets an innovative blueprint for the future of higher education."

Participating universities are busy adding professional certificates into their curriculum, Coursera said. Some innovations include incorporating data analytics and project management certificates in criminal justice courses at UT Tyler. Other schools, like UT Dallas Jindal School of Business, give extra credit for certificate course completion in business analytics and IT management.

Visit the UT System microcredentials page to learn more about Texas Credentials for the Future and credential courses available at UT academic institutions.

Go here to learn more about Coursera for Campus.
As much a part of the Kiwi kitchen as pavlova, honey and wine are, Edmonds My First Cookbook has been translated and is now available as Taku Puka Tohutao Tuatahi, with the new edition also including recipes for Maori kai (food).
NEOTech Leads Electronic Manufacturing Industry Utilizing State-of-the-Art Failure Analysis Solutions Published: 29 August 2023 by Tyler Hanes by Tyler Hanes

CHATSWORTH, CA  NEOTech, a leading provider of electronic manufacturing services (EMS), design engineering, and supply chain solutions in the high-tech industrial, medical device, and aerospace/defense markets, is thrilled to announce the expansion of their state-of-the-art failure analysis lab at their Agave manufacturing site in Juarez, Mexico to provide customers with enhanced levels of product quality assurance. As a leader in electronic manufacturing of advanced high-tech products for OEMs, NEOTech continues to offer best-in-class services by showcasing their commitment to investing in state- of-the-art equipment. This commitment to quality ensures NEOTechs customers keep their products ahead of their competitors.

NEOTech is well known in the industry for its reputation to provide high-quality and high- reliability electronic manufacturing services with the continued investment in cutting-edge manufacturing equipment. Having their failure analysis lab integrated as part of their inspection and manufacturing process at their largest production facility in Mexico, NEOTech can locate supplier or production defects in microscopic details to avoid unexpected problems with products in the field. The success of the failure analysis lab in Mexico blazes the trail for similar labs to be implemented at NEOTechs other manufacturing sites in Mexico and the US.

Our team of engineers and technicians, all experts in product failure analysis, and our investment in top-of-the-line analysis equipment, gives our customers the advantage that we can analyze and identify design or manufacturing defects before they effect production volumes, stated Kunal Sharma, President and Chief Operating Officer. With decades of combined experience in multiple engineering disciplines, our product failure analysis team uses equipment like our Scan Electron and Elemental Analysis Microscope to quickly and thoroughly locate mechanical anomalies and inconsistent chemical compositions. Along with the detailed analysis, our team also contributes to finding creative solutions that work best for everyone, ensuring our customers product quality stays at the top of the industry.

Along with their manufacturing capabilities in the US, NEOTech provides options for high-tech electronics manufacturing in Mexico with four strategically located plants. The Tijuana sites, situated in the greater Baja California region, include top-of-the-line PCBA manufacturing along with NEOTechs Interconnect Center of Excellence. The Tijuana sites, in conjunction with NEOTech's two state-of-the-art locations in Juarez, Mexico, boast cutting-edge manufacturing technologies and supply chain management capabilities, elevating NEOTech to the forefront of the EMS industry.

NEOTechs Interconnect Center of Excellence represents innovation and excellence in custom cable manufacturing solutions, wire harness manufacturing, and wire harness assembly. The three additional manufacturing sites provide industry-leading PCBA manufacturing, custom testing stations, and high-level assembly capabilities for some of the worlds most advanced products. With a mere five-minute drive from the US border to all four facilities, the facilities embody NEOTechs commitment to proximity, efficiency, and quality. By seamlessly merging their diverse expertise in building printed circuit board assemblies and intricate systems integration, NEOTech stands out as the premier end-to-end, one-stop destination for delivering innovative products that set new industry standards.

With more than 40 years of heritage in electronics manufacturing, NEOTech specializes in high- reliability programs in the Aerospace and Defense industry, Medical Products, and High-Tech Industrial markets. NEOTech is well recognized as a premier EMS provider with in-depth experience manufacturing high-tech products and managing stringent US government requirements. For more information about NEOTech services, visit the companys website at www.NEOTech.com
Former biotech executive Vivek Ramaswamy speaks at the first Republican candidates' debate of the 2024 presidential campaign in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Aug. 23, 2023.
Reporter

Andrew Roberto was raised his whole life on Saipan. He graduated from Saipan Southern High School, holds a degree from Northern Marianas College, and a BA in English from the University of Guam. He once worked for KUAM, UNO Magazine, and the Guam Daily Post.
Mourners attend a prayer vigil a day after a white man armed with a high-powered rifle and a handgun killed three Black people at a Dollar General store before shooting himself, in what local law enforcement described as a racially motivated crime in Jacksonville, Florida, U.S. August 27, 2023. REUTERS/Malcom Jackson
Lacroix Reports 11% Revenue Growth Published: 29 August 2023 by Tyler Hanes by Tyler Hanes

SAINT-HERBLAIN, FRANCE  Lacroix announced revenue of 193 million ($208 million) for the second quarter, an increase of 11.4% from the second quarter of 2022.

For the first half of the year, the company's revenue reached 387.8 million ($418.5 million), up 14.6% from the first six months of 2022.

The company's Electronics segment saw revenue rise by 13% to 142.4 million ($153.7 million), despite the temporary shutdown of production at three sites in France (Beaupreau), Germany (Willich) and Tunisia (Zriba), following a cyber attack, which resulted in a loss of business in the range of 4 million to 5 million ($4.3 million to $5.4 million). The company said it expects the shortfall in sales to be recovered in the second half of the year.

Lacroix's City segment revenue rose by 8.2% , and its Environment segment's revenue rose by 5.9% for the quarter. As a whole, the company said it expects full-year revenue of more than 750 million ($809.4 million), which would represent an increase of at least 6%.
A Columbus man was found guilty on Thursday, Aug. 24, of election falsification following a short trial in Colfax County District Court.

A 12-person jury comprised of six men and six women took only 58 minutes to render a guilty verdict against Larry L. Divis, of Columbus, who was accused of illegally registering to vote and voting in the Village of Richland in the 2020 general election despite really living in Columbus.

State prosecutors presented a case over one and a half days of proceedings against Divis, who was charged with one count of election falsification, a Class IV felony.

The potential punishment Divis could face includes a possible prison sentence of up to two years, 12 months of post-release supervision, a fine of up to $10,000, or both imprisonment and a fine.

After the jurys verdict was read before Colfax County District Court Judge Christina M. Marroquin, Divis muttered several undecipherable words to his attorney before leaving the courtroom. He declined to comment on the verdict to the Telegram.

Marroquin ordered Divis to report to the Colfax County Probation Office for a pre-sentencing investigation. He is scheduled to be sentenced at 2 p.m., Wednesday, Oct. 11.

The computer programmer was accused of officially residing at a home on 30th Avenue in Columbus and registering to vote in Platte County in the May 2020 primary election. Prosecutors alleged Divis then falsely claimed he resided in the Village of Richland, where in October 2020, he registered to vote in Colfax County and then voted in the Nov. 3, 2020, general election pretending to be a Richland resident.

The reason for his alleged election ruse, the two prosecutors for the state  Nebraska Assistant Attorney Generals Zach Blackman and Mary Marcum  told jurors was that Divis was angry at the five members of the Richland Village Board.

Those board members  one of whom testified against Divis  had approved in 2018 several changes to village nuisance property ordinances pertaining to piled up junk on local properties and a plan to tear down the historic, but dilapidated Richland Town Hall.

Divis is a native of Richland and in 1999 had inherited 10 total parcels of land in the small village, which is east of Columbus, but located in a different county  Colfax. In Richland, Divis owned a home that his now-deceased brother had resided in as well as several mechanic shops. He also owns a home in Columbus, which he said he purchased to house his 30-year girlfriend.

Defense attorney Jerod Trouba told jurors that Divis was not guilty of the charge for the simple reason that Divis did actually live at property he legally owned in the Village of Richmond as of the date he registered to vote in Colfax County, on Oct. 19, 2020.

Trial focused on documents, witness testimony

The trial began on Wednesday morning, Aug. 23, in the Colfax County Courthouse in Schulyer, with a lengthy jury selection process that lasted almost four hours.

After 12 jurors and one alternate were selected, Marcum presented the opening argument for the prosecution, explaining how an investigation into the allegations against Divis revealed that he resided at the Columbus home and had registered to vote as an early voter in Platte County in the May 2020 primary.

Then, five months later, Divis registered to vote in Colfax County in an effort to unseat members of the Richland Village Board he was alleged to be angry with over the nuisance ordinance changes.

This case is about the integrity of the election system, Marcum told jurors in her opening statement.

Divis attorney told a different story in his opening statements to the jury, explaining that many pieces of evidence and witnesses would reveal true things about his client, but that he was not guilty of the allegation of election falsification.

Larry Divis is the one who decides where he lives, Trouba told the jury. He did not like how the village board was being run, and in 2020, he registered in Colfax County.

Trouba also alleged that the prosecution of Divis was a result of a dislike of his client by one of the witnesses, Carol Engel, who had served on the Richland Village Board, but lost her re-election bid in the 2020 election.

They went through many hurdles to make sure he was prosecuted, Trouba added in his opening statements.

Blackman and Marcum presented a series of documents as evidence as well as calling seven witnesses to testify against Divis in an effort to prove their case against him.

Among the witnesses were retired Nebraska State Patrol investigations sergeant Robert Bob Rose; Village of Richland Clerk Michelle Evert; former Platte County Elections Commissioner Connie Sebourn; Colfax County Elections Commissioner Rita Mundil; a second Nebraska State Patrol officer  Trooper Andrew Bestenlehner; an employee of a local electric company and Engel.

The prosecution also entered into evidence the official and signed early voting registration and request from Platte County that Divis has filed before the May 2020 primary election, on which he stated that his residence was at a home on 30th Avenue in Columbus.

Marcum and Blackman also produced Colfax County elections documents as evidence, including the Oct. 19, 2020, register to vote form filed by Divis in Colfax County.

On that Colfax County form, Divis stated his official residence was inside a workshop in the 100 block of East Fisk Street in Richland. The two state lawyers also entered into evidence the signed voting day rolls showing Divis voted in the Nov. 3, 2020, general election as a resident of Richland in Colfax County.

Both Blackman and Marcum claimed that Divis was enraged about the new, updated nuisance ordinances in the Village of Richland, which led him  several witnesses testified  to make alleged violent threats to both Engel and Evert.

Divis denied making any violent threats against the two women on the second day of the trial when he was unexpectedly called to testify after his girlfriend did not testify as planned.

Evert said Divis began to attend the Richland Village Board meetings sometime in 2020, and was angry," and along with three other residents, he complained about the newly updated ordinances. After an Oct. 13, 2020, meeting, Evert testified that Divis said after the Oct. 13 board meeting he would, vote the board out.

A comment was made (from others) that (Divis) dont live (in Richland), Evert testified. (Divis) responded, I do, and I will register."

Because Evert also worked a second job as an assistant to the Colfax County Elections Commissioner, she later was doing county election paperwork duties and saw that Divis had registered to vote in Colfax County. It was then, Evert said, that she reported Divis to the Colfax County sheriff, the county elections commissioner and the Nebraska Secretary of State office.

I was shocked Divis was registered to vote in Colfax County, Evert noted.

Sebourn then testified that Divis had registered to vote in Platte County for the May 2020 primary election with his address of residence being 30th Avenue in Columbus. Mundil then testified that Divis in October 2020 had registered to vote  and later voted  in Colfax County with an official residence on East Fisk Street in Richland.

Engel, who herself lives only two blocks from the home Divis owns in Richland, testified that it was Divis now-dead brother  Steven  who really lived in the East Fisk Street home, not Larry, and that she rarely saw Larry Divis at the residence he claimed he lived at in the tiny village.

Larry lived in Columbus, Engel testified.

Divis claimed he lived in workshop space

On the second day of the trial, Divis attorney was planning to call as a witness Divis 30-year girlfriend, Denise K. Tschantre. However, Tschantre never appeared in the courtroom and did not testify. Trouba did not explain why she did not appear in court.

Without Tschantres testimony, Trouba instead called Divis to the stand to testify.

Once sworn in, Divis testified about the 10 parcels of land he owns in Richland, how he acquired the properties and the types of structures that are on the piece of land. He claimed in his testimony that the home in Columbus was only his business office, although he stated he purchased the home so Tschantre could reside there.

Divis then testified that on one piece of land he owns in Richland, there is a workshop that he constructed in the 2003-2004 time period. Within that workshop, he claimed, were living quarters along with bathrooms.

It was in that space, Divis told jurors that he really lived, claiming it was his official residence  not the home in Columbus where he received mail and had listed as his home on his Platte County voter registration in May 2020.

During the prosecution cross examination, Blackman peppered Divis with questions about why he had filled out one voter registration form in May 2020 stating he lived in Columbus and a second in October of the same year, alleging he lived in Richland.

Divis then admitted to the jury that when he filed the voter registration form in Platte County in May 2020, he actually lived in the workshop in Richland  not the 30th Avenue home he had written on the form.

During closing arguments, Blackman told the jury that because of the testimony of witnesses  including Divis  as well as the evidence presented, it was clear that Divis was guilty of election falsification.

He didnt just register to vote (in Richland), he voted there. One of the terms youve heard in this trial is residence, Blackman told jurors. That place in Nebraska is where a person actually domiciled. That is what this case is about: ensuring that people who actually live in our small communities vote in those small communities.
Attorney General Rob Bonta View Photo

Sacramento, CA  The State of California is taking a stand in a new debate about the rights of transgender students in the classrooms.

Attorney General Rob Bonta says the state is suing a southern California school district which adopted policies to notify parents anytime their children change their pronouns or ask to be recognized as a gender other than what is on their birth records. The states lawsuit is aimed at the Chino Valley Unified School District outside of Los Angeles, but the AGs Office notes that other districts are considering passing similar measures, which prompted the lawsuit.

Bonta is seeking a court order to block the implementation of the new requirements. The school board, and its supporters, are arguing that the parents have the right to know the information about their children.
President Joe Biden Speaks In California with Governor Newsom and others in the background View Photo

Sacramento, CA  While Governor Gavin Newsom has repeatedly said it will not happen, a new Rassmussen Poll reports that 36% of likely Democratic voters, nationwide, would like him to challenge Joe Biden in the Democratic Primary for President.

Most of the national attention has been on the Republican race recently, as Newsom has been adamant that he will not run against Biden, and has praised the Presidents reelection bid on multiple occasions. However, some Democrats are questioning whether Biden, who is 80, should step aside at the end of his term.

Robert Kennedy Jr. is the only Democrat with national name recognition running against the sitting President.

Breaking down the numbers further, the poll results also note that between Republicans and Democrats, Newsoms favorability rating is only 37%, while 43% view him unfavorably, and 19% are unsure. The poll results were released the same day that some national news reports surfaced that the Biden-Harris Administration has been voicing some complaints behind the scenes about Newsoms efforts to debate Florida Governor Ron DeSantis on the Fox News Channel, and related efforts to grow his national profile.
Senator Mike McGuire View Photo

Sacramento, CA  The California Senate will have a new leader when lawmakers reconvene in 2024. Democrat Toni Atkins announces that she will leave the top post next year and Mike McGuire of the north coast community of Healdsburg will step into the role.

He was picked during a two-hour closed-door meeting yesterday with Senate Democrats. During a press conference afterward at the capitol, McGuire said he and Atkins are unified in the transition process, and said it will be an honor to lead the Senate next year. Lawmakers are currently in the final weeks of the current legislative session.

On the other side of the aisle, Senate Republican Leader Brian Jones put out a statement praising the move, Even before both of us were in leadership, Mike and I had a long and positive history of working together to better California. I deeply appreciate his respect for differing viewpoints. He has shown a willingness to work in a bipartisan manner and we are excited to continue this cooperation.

Democratic Governor Gavin Newsom also added praise, Senator McGuire is a proven leader who has been a tireless champion for communities ravaged by wildfire, expanding educational opportunities, building affordable housing, addressing homelessness, and other priorities for everyday Californians.

Newsom, Jones, and McGuire also thanked outgoing Senate leader Atkins for her service to the state.
In 1944, 19-year-old Richard "Dick" Raitt stood watch on the poop deck of a 300-foot-long, 60-foot-wide fuel tanker ship headed from San Francisco to Tinian, a city on the Northern Mariana Islands.

Little did he know then that his military service would be honored almost 80 years later.

Following the January passing of Bill Sanley, VFW District 15 Service Officer Larry Sabata realized Raitt, now 99 years old, was one of, if not the last of his kind. With a lot of homework and no small effort, he determined this was the case. The local Veterans of Foreign Wars and American Legion chapters honored Raitt for his service as a result.

"I went to all the different posts in Butler County, old people's homes. When you've lived here all your life, you know all the old veterans and everybody," Sabata said. "I did a lot of phone calls to find out if he was the last living World War II veteran (in Butler County) and as far as I know, he is the last."

Raitt and his three siblings were all born on his family's farm near Rising City. His father came to the United States from Scotland and bought the land for farming.

Raitt said his military journey started with a job baling straw. The person who normally fed the machine straw had called in sick and Raitt signed himself up for the job. He doubled the number of bales produced that day.

One day on the job, bad weather caused a delay and he and a now-late friend and fellow serviceman Bill Chase decided that was a good time to enlist, Raitt said. Bill Sanley, another recent area graduate, enlisted around this time as well.

"I started baling straw for an Indiana guy out here. Every place had straw stacks. This guy had a paper mill in Indiana. One morning it rained, so Bill Chase and I said 'let's go sign up for the service,'" Raitt said.

Within a week, the new recruits shipped out of Omaha for the West Coast for assignment and deployment. Raitt and Sanley actually went through boot camp together. After a few days by rail, they reached Farragut, Idaho, where Sanley and Raitt parted ways.

From Farragut, Raitt headed south to San Diego for gunnery school and later San Francisco. In California, Raitt was assigned to a T-2 oil tanker, which hauled around 6 million gallons of oil for commercial purposes, Raitt said. In California, he had an encounter he remembered like it happened yesterday.

"I had a tattoo that got infected. I went to Treasure Island and was operated on there," Raitt said. "While I was in there, Bing Crosby came down. He stood at the end of my bed and sang 'Sentimental Valley' and 'Swinging on A Star.'"

Raitt married his wife on Dec. 30, 1945 and eventually got out of the service to go back to the family farm. Now, 80 years after he started, he's the last of his kind, still witty and feeling good for just shy of 100.

"The biggest thing I've accomplished here is outliving everyone in my family. My grandma lived to be 97. My sister Irene lived to be 99," Raitt said.

Raitt said the best part of being in the Navy, in his opinion, was the rare breaks they got, called "liberty" where they could go on shore at a port. While he was in the Navy, he said, he knew he had somewhere to stay and something to do.

"When I was in the Navy, I always had a place to sleep. About all I did was stand watch, but that was hard enough," Raitt said. "I stood watch from 4 o'clock in the morning to 12 at night. After that was the only time I could get any sleep."

Sabata said that, in his time with the Legion and the VFW, he has seen a lot of veterans of all kinds of conflicts, past and present, old and young. World War II veterans, he said, typically didn't talk much about their experiences, but Raitt and the late Bill Sanley, he said, have told him and a few others quite a bit.

"Over the years, I've talked to many World War II vets because of my position on the honor guard. Being with the World War II veterans, Bill Sanley and Dick Raitt always stood out," Sabata said. "They talked about it, but never really opened up, not until later on when I talked about my experience in Vietnam we'd talk about history and it got easier and easier."

Being a Vietnam veteran himself, Sabata said he greatly appreciates the service of the people who came before him. When Bill Sanley was still alive, Sabata said, he would see Sanley and Raitt reminiscing at the Stop-Inn gas station on Fourth Street and stop by to say "Hello."

Sabata said when he was much younger, they were more than just veterans. Now, 80 years after their service was completed, he said, it is still invaluable.

"As far as I'm concerned, the World War II vets were my superheroes. If it weren't for them, we wouldn't have the America we know," Sabata said. "I have the greatest respect for World War II veterans."
Im sad to say, that even though their kimchi is some of the freshest and prettiest Ive ever seen, Im still not a fan. I will, however, add all three of these condiments to my Labor Day faire and invite you to shop all their products at https://www.smalltowncultures.com/ .

















Three About Mamalou Bakeshop :





















What would a family gathering be if I didnt offer a dessert or two? Its been so terribly hot here in my region that its hard to want to bake, so imagine my delight when I received a dozen pre-packaged, fresh-baked chocolate chip cookies from Mamalou Bakeshop.









Mamalous is a one-woman bake shop. Lauren is the baker behind the small-batch Mamalou Bakeshop. She wants to help us send love in the shape of a cookie from her bakery in Corvallis, Oregon to our homes all across the United States.









Lauren strives to use the freshest ingredients, and you can taste it in every bite of her thick, dense chocolate chip cookies. Laurens mission to source environmentally sustainable packaging spoke to my earth-loving heart!




















Press Release

August 28, 2023 EUROTV WATCHLIST INTERVIEW OF SENATOR WIN GATCHALIAN WITH ALVIN PELOBELLO ON OPENING OF CLASSES, DEPED BUDGET, ACADEMIC CALENDAR AND RECTO BANK Q: The academic year 2023-2024 will begin tomorrow for public schools nationwide. Do you have data if all schools are 100 percent ready for the Balik Eskwela this year? SEN. WIN: Despite the challenges in different inputs, for example classrooms. During the hearing we discovered that we need approximately 140,000 classrooms in order to achieve a 40:1, one shift set up in our schools. So despite our challenges that our schools are facing and despite what our teachers and principals are facing, they are ready to open school this coming August 29 which is tomorrow and all of these challenges are actually not new to them. They face these challenges year in year out during school opening but despite all of these lack of classrooms and other materials, they've managed to successfully conduct classes without any problems with safety concerns. So the long and short answer is yes, in my opinion they are ready to open school tomorrow and hopefully our parents are ready as well to send their kids to school. Q: Did you hear that the Department of Education needs around P397 billion to address the country's backlog on classrooms, what are your hopes on this matter? As we now have, sabi nga sa report, almost 50,000 backlogs of classrooms? SEN. WIN: Yes, it's a big challenge to allocate close to P400 billion to wipe out the backlog of classrooms. It's going to be impossible. It will take many many years to reach that point. So in the short term, we should find an out of the box solution. For example, I proposed to increase the voucher system for Junior High School and Senior High School. This will enable parents and students where to go for their school and we can also utilize the excess capacity of private schools. DEPED BUDGET Q: Na-mention nyo po sa isa nyong pahayag na this is a far cry from the allocation of budget and of course you wanted to have a solution on this, when do you expect that the budget of DepEd will increase para mapunan itong gap? SEN. WIN: It will be a challenge. I really admit every budget season, this will be a sticking point and a main issue that we always talk about, how much should we allocate for the classrooms? and the average for the last probably 3 to five years, the average allocation will fluctuate from P10 billion to P40 billion. It's not much compared to the P400 billion that we need. And what's important right now is to find other ways to make our classrooms conducive. For example here in Valenzuela some of our senior high schools have 60 students per classroom. That's not conducive for learning, that's not appropriate for learning. And we need to decongest. And one way that I am pushing for, or one solution that I am pushing is to use the excess capacities of our private schools. Meaning we channel some of our students to go to private schools. Q: Medyo mabigat pa ito na problema Sir and I am sure hindi ito masosolusyunan ng isang administrasyon lang? SEN. WIN: Yes, that will take time. It will probably take a few more administrations, probably two more or three more administrations to solve this. So in the meantime we need to have a short term solution. And the short term solution, what we are seeing right now is the three or shifts in some of the schools. Let's think outside of the box, let's see if we can also use online learning or distance learning so that we can decongest schools. But we have to study this carefully because distance learning and online learning also have limitations. DISPLAYS IN CLASSROOMS Q: Sir we also want to get your reaction regarding the removal of unnecessary displays inside the classrooms. Do you think it is necessary, what do you think Sir? SEN. WIN: My understanding of that order is to make our schools clean and presentable. And my understanding is to really clean up the schools of these distractions. So I do agree that schools should be presentable for our parents. I do also agree that schools should be clean all the time and very particular with the cleanliness of our schools, so I do agree that our schools should always clean, clear of distractions and irrelevant posters and irrelevant materials that are posted on the walls. Q: In effect Sir, wala bang, of course andyan ang panganib na posibleng makaapekto sa mga learners lalo na sa low level learners, seeing visuals na makakatulong din at somehow sa kanila kapag andun sa classroom ay tinanggal na po ng DepEd. SEN. WIN: Well, definitely, for daycares, kindergartens, Grades 1 to 3, visuals are important also to remind our learners for example the ABCs, the 123s, of course the basic objects like cat, dog, animals, these are very important visual views for our learners and our teachers will know best. What is the direction of that order is not to hamper the learning but to make our schools presentable. So it doesn't mean that because of that order we will remove all the learning materials on the wall. So our teachers will know best what to hang on the wall that can enhance learning. MATATAG CURRICULUM Q: Good point Sir. Regarding the new Matatag Curriculum, are you in favor of this? In Particular, are there major subjects that are removed from the curriculum? SEN. WIN: Actually a few days ago, we had a consultative meeting with DepEd and I told them, this is a long time coming. This wasn't a product of an overnight discussion. Four years ago, they were already talking about this. I remember, during the 17th Congress, I chaired a subcommittee on K-12 review and I remember hearing from DepEd and some resource persons that they are reviewing our K-12 curriculum and now after 4-5 years it is now a reality. And the basic feature, the most important and the most basic feature of this revised or the reformed curriculum is the decongestion of our basic education curriculum. We are teaching the students too many things that they are not learning. It's important also for our learners to have time to study, to have time to internalize, to deepen the understanding of certain subjects. Our teachers also should also have time to teach. I remember seeing a survey that only 40% of our teachers manage to finish or manage to teach all the competencies that were assigned to a teacher. So meaning 60% were not even taught and yet during the national achievement, 100% will be tested on the students. That goes to show one of the reasons why our students are not fair and well on the national achievement test is because they are not learning all the competencies that are assigned to a teacher because it is just plain and simple, it's too many. Q: Sir, nabanggit mo rin noong nakaraan that majority are saying that they did not benefit from the K-12 program. What is the EDCOM doing right now? Kumusta na po itong EDCOM 2? SEN. WIN: Well, in general, there's a 50-50 favorable and unfavorable view on K-12. And the reason for that is we increased it by two years but a lot of our students cannot get a job or cannot enter college. So the college readiness or job readiness is still much to be desired and that's one of the things that we are fixing in our system is to improve the delivery of our senior high school system or senior high school level. Q: Will you urge the DepEd, of course, meron na kayong pag-uusap na i-review itong K-10 Matatag Curriculum yung bagong curriculum prior to its implementation for the academic year 2024-2025 to put back the Mother Tongue Subject kasi parang it's one of the major subjects na kailangan ding pag-aralan ng mga mag-aaral? SEN. WIN: Well, under the new curriculum they removed the Mother tongue as a subject, to decongest the subjects. The point here is to have more time in learning the foundational skills such as reading, writing and math. So DepEd removed the mother tongue subject. Not only removed, but they combined MAPEH, Araling Panlipunan into a single subject called Makabansa subject. So from 8 subjects, it is now reduced to five subjects. And the reason for that is for students to spend more time in Math, spend more time in Reading. These are foundational skills that they will need to strengthen in order to thrive in the next stage level. Q: To lessen at least the number of camps who belong to the learning gap that you considered, we understand that there are learning camps that are ongoing in the public schools. But to address the so-called education problem, what do you think the government should do under Marcos administration? SEN. WIN: Well, right now the learning camp is under a pilot setup. And what we suggested in our consultative meeting to convert the learning camp into an intervention program. The learning camp is designed to enhance those who are already proficient in some subjects but what would happen to those who are not proficient in Math, Science and English. So what we suggested instead of enhancement, it should be an intervention program to those who are struggling to pass basic subjects such as Math, Science and English. So admittedly, this is a pilot program and DepEd is taking our suggestion to focus on those students who are struggling on those subjects. ACADEMIC CALENDAR Q: On returning back to old academic years, since we have launched naman ang blended learning mode, can't we use it as a transition towards getting back to the old curriculum? SEN. WIN: Yeah, well the transition to the old academic year will take time, although I recommended to DepEd that there are a lot of benefits moving to our traditional summer break which are April and May. Learners spend more time with their families. Learners can spend more time playing outside. Learners can bond with their friends and family and that is important to the growth of a child. Right now, for example, in the last two months of the rainy season, a lot of our families could not go out of their houses or didn't go out of their houses because it's traffic and the weather is bad. So there are a lot of benefits to moving to the original academic calendar. That's why we suggested to DepEd in the last hearing to slowly or already transition to the old academic calendar. And I agree with them, it cannot happen overnight, because obviously there will be one year of no break if we do it overnight. So it would probably be a two to three year transition but during the meeting of the minds, there is yes, we have to move towards the old academic break. Q: Is that the feedback from the DepEd? SEN. WIN: Not yet, no feedback from the DepEd yet but I understand they want to approach this scientifically so they contracted third party researchers to study this very carefully. But during the hearing we invited PAGASA and PAGASA shared with us that summers right now are getting hotter, rainy seasons are getting more wet or we are getting a lot of rainfall. So they suggested I think the most logical solution is to go back to the original calendar so that during summer students are home, they can play and during those times they can avoid the sweltering heat especially in areas that can reach about 52 degrees celsius. RECTO BANK Q: During the house committee on appropriations hearing, sabi ni Sec. Raphael Lotilla confirmed that they have been granted by President Marcos regarding the exploration in Recto Bank. Do the Philippines have a capability for exploration kasi parang 20 years na raw ang pag-eexplore at wala pa ring development? SEN. WIN: Yes he is right, we don't have any capability in exploring. And what will happen is we will partner with foreign companies, foreign exploration companies to join forces and to explore. This is a very technical, highly risky and a lot of capital type of business. And no business in the Philippines will have that capability, especially on the technical side. So we have to partner up with foreign oil and gas companies to drill and explore.
The foals arrived with dead, defeated eyes, Lin Guyton says, almost like those of deprived children from an impoverished country.

Theyre among 36 horses confiscated from the Blue Valley Veterinary Clinic and Pickrell Veterinary Clinic in Gage County that are being cared for at the Epona Equine Rescue in Crete, Nebraska. Vet Jennafer Glaesemann has been charged so far with 37 counts of livestock neglect after an estimated 15 to 17 horses died under her care.

Guyton volunteered to take the horses at the rescue shes run for nearly 20 years.

They are starting to bounce back and be little stinkers and run around, Guyton said. They cant believe there is always food around them. The babies are getting more milk.

Guyton was already caring for 24 horses but said she couldnt stand by, knowing that this herd needed help.

Now shes asking for help from the public.

Were estimating 40 to 60 large rounds (of hay) is what its going to take to feed this herd, she said. At this point, theyve already gone through 10 of my winter hay.

Some of the mares were just slightly malnourished, but others were horrendously emaciated, Guyton said. When checked by her veterinarian, they scored from a 2 to 5 on a body condition scale. Six is considered healthy.

Guyton said one group of 20 mares is going through a bale of hay a day. A group of nine already in her rescue usually takes a week and a half to go through that amount.

These horses are just eating and eating and eating because they dont know when food is going to next appear, she said. They cant get full.

Guyton said she needs good grass hay or a grass alfalfa mix. Nursing or pregnant mares cannot eat hay with any fescue or clover.

Gage County will eventually reimburse Guyton for her expenses, but she said she needs immediate help because of the condition of the horses. Any hay donated will save the county money.

The list of her usual volunteers has been growing since the horses arrived. Others are donating cash. One said, Were just a bunch of cow guys that cant believe how these horses got treated.

Guyton plans to start socializing the babies and halter breaking them so they can be worked with, she said, and become good citizens.

She expects to be caring for the horses for a minimum of 60 days, standard procedure in a livestock seizure. The Gage County Court will determine the timeline. She said the horses then could be auctioned off.

Shes hoping to persuade Gage County officials to instead let her find homes for them.

My fear is that at an auction some of these horses will end up back in undesirable situations, she said.

Sgt. Tim Hanson, the primary investigator for the Gage County Sheriffs Office, said its a complex case.

Sheriff (Millard) Gustafson has taken this case seriously from the very beginning, Hanson said. He called in a investigator from the Nebraska Brand Committee, and his help has been invaluable.

He said his office is grateful to Epona and its volunteers for their quick help with the horses.

Its been a lot of work, especially in the recent high temperatures, but Guyton is thrilled to see some life in the eyes of the horses again.

I am humbled at the outpouring of love and concern toward these gentle souls, she said. This is a huge undertaking, and animal lovers everywhere are reaching out.

Horses are being cared for at Epona Rescue
Several leaders have sent congratulatory messages to President Mnangagwa and the ruling Zanu PF party following their victory in last weeks harmonised elections.

President Mnangagwa won the presidential election with 2 350 711 votes which translates to 52,6 percent of the vote beating his nearest challenger, CCCs Mr Nelson Chamisa who got 1 967 343 (44pc) of the vote.

In a message on his X (formerly Twitter) handle last night South African President Cyril Ramaphosa said: I congratulate President Emmerson Mnangagwa on his re-election. I wish him and the people of Zimbabwe well for the upcoming term.

In an earlier statement yesterday the Presidency of South Africa congratulated the Government and the people of Zimbabwe for organising the harmonised elections.

South Africa is conscious that these elections took place under a difficult economic environment due to the burdening sanctions which the people of Zimbabwe continue to unjustly endure.

Furthermore, South Africa has taken note of the preliminary pronouncements by the invited International Observers Missions including the African Union and the South African Development Community Observer Missions. South Africa calls on all the parties in Zimbabwe to work in unison in sustaining peace and work towards development and shared prosperity.

The Russian Federation also congratulated Zimbabwe for holding peaceful elections, with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs saying: The parliamentary elections resulted in the majority vote for the ruling Zimbabwe African National Union Patriotic Front in the National Assembly. The results of the voting demonstrated broad support for the policies being implemented by President Mnangagwa to strengthen the statehood and ensure internal stability, to carry out reforms favourable for a further progressive development of the country on the basis of ensuring rights and interests of various groups and sectors of the Zimbabwean society.

Moscow reaffirms its eagerness to strengthen and enhance the relations of comprehensive partnership and mutually beneficial cooperation with the friendly Republic of Zimbabwe as well as to proceed with tight coordination in international and regional affairs.

In a statement, the deputy director of Information at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of China, Mr Wang Wenbin said: At Zimbabwes invitation, China sent an observer mission there.

The mission believes that the elections were held in a peaceful and orderly fashion with active participation by the people. We have noted the result released by the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission and extend congratulations to President Mnangagwa. We stand ready to work with the new Government to bring our two countries comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership to new heights.

China adheres to the principle of non-interference in other countries internal affairs. We respect the Zimbabwe peoples choice, wish the country continued stability after the election and greater progress in pursuing national development and prosperity.

In a message on her X (formerly twitter) handle yesterday, Tanzanias President Samia Suluhu Hassan congratulated President Mnangagwa saying she looked forward to continue working together with him. On behalf of the Government and the people of the United Republic of Tanzania, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to His Excellency, President @edmnangagwa on being re-elected as the President of the Republic of Zimbabwe. I am looking forward to continuing working together in fostering the historic, economic and diplomatic relations between Tanzania and Zimbabwe, she said.

Belarus President Aleksandr Lukashenko also congratulated President Mnangagwa saying his victory and that of Zimbabwe was a vote of confidence in their development agenda.

The electoral campaign has once again demonstrated the triumph of peoples justice in Zimbabwe, the President of Belarus noted.

The voting results have shown significant public support for the Vision 2030 strategy and its outcomes that were achieved, thanks to you and your Government despite the difficult foreign policy conditions. Under your leadership, the country will certainly continue to gradually build up its economic, industrial, scientific and cultural potential, and strengthen its positions in the international arena.

President Lukashenko continued: It is gratifying to see that Belarus-Zimbabwe cooperation remains on a solid footing. This was reaffirmed during our meeting in Harare in January and during numerous visits of government delegations that took place afterwards. Belarus will make every effort to advance the traditionally friendly and trust-based relations between Minsk and Harare to the level of strategic partnership.

On Sunday Namibias leader, Hage Geingob also applauded Zanu PF and President Mnangagwa on their victory.

On behalf of the people and Government of the Republic of Namibia, I extend warmest congratulations to @edmnangagwa on his re-election as President of Zimbabwe. I also extend felicitations to @ZANU PF_Official our sister party, on the victory in the peaceful elections of 23-08-23, he said.

The secretary general for South Africas governing African National Congress (ANC) party Mr Fikile Mbalula has also congratulated President Mnangagwa on his re-election.

Although ANC has not yet released an official statement, Mr Mbalula said he accepted the results of the Zimbabwean elections.

Palestinian and Indian observer missions last week described the elections as transparent and peaceful.

The missions said the voting process was carried out according to international standards, despite delays in voting at some polling stations.

Mr Hisham Kuhail, the chief electoral officer of the Central Elections Commission of Palestine (CEC) said they focused on the procedural aspects of the electoral process and they were satisfied that everything had gone on smoothly.

 Herald

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VICE-PRESIDENT Constantino Chiwenga reportedly screamed for help when his former wife Marry Mubaiwa allegedly tried to pull out an intravenous life-saving tube at a South African hospital in 2018, Health and Child Care deputy minister John Mangwiro told the court yesterday.

Mangwiro said he rushed into the intensive care unit where Chiwenga was booked after he heard him screaming for help.

Mangwiro, who was Chiwengas personal doctor, was testifying in Mubaiwas trial for attempting to kill Chiwenga.

He also told the court that Mubaiwa tried all means to kill her ex-husband, saying he was forced to board another aircraft without his patient who needed care during the flight.

When we arrived at Lanseria Airport in Pretoria (South Africa), the accused person delayed us for more than three hours at the airport where she had a misunderstanding with the immigration officials, Mangwiro said. She told the immigration officials that her son was Chiwengas biological son, but the documents bore other names. We waited for three hours as there was a stand-off.

He said the delay was unnecessary because Chiwenga needed urgent medical attention, adding that he was surprised when they were led to a hotel instead of NetCare Hospital, where he had booked for Chiwenga.

We were supposed to go to NetCare Hospital as we had left Zimbabwe for that destination. To my disappointment, the then powerful accused directed us to Sheraton Hotel. It was a dangerous decision because it continued to endanger the life of the Vice-President.

We then got to the basement of the hotel and we immediately confronted the accused to say the Vice-President needed life-saving hospitalisation rather than to come to a hotel.

She responded to me saying the Vice-President needed to rest in the hotel. I continued to argue until Major (Blessing) Muringi joined, saying we needed to go to the hospital and I discovered that prior arrangements had already been made.

Mangwiro said Mubaiwa refused to book Chiwenga into hospital and he had to phone President Emmerson Mnangagwa, who advised them to convince her to have him admitted to hospital.

He also said Mubaiwa refused to take Chiwenga to the hospital the next morning. He said Muringi and Chiwengas security staff pleaded with Mubaiwa to no avail, which led to him to call Dr Willi Leo Seiling to the hotel.

At around 5pm on June 24, 2019, that is when we were allowed to take the Vice-President into the intensive care unit. She remained at the hotel and she did not accompany the complainant to the hospital.

As a doctor when monitoring the patient to be told to leave the room youll then ask yourself what she wanted to do? Youll start questioning the type of drugs the complainant is said to have taken, he said.

Mangwiro said Mubaiwa was accompanied by one Bruce, who was referred to as a medical doctor, but he later learnt that he was actually a veterinary surgeon.

Mangwiro said he reported the incident to Mnangagwa, leading to Chiwengas transfer to China for further medical attention.

He told magistrate Feresi Chakanyuka that when they took Chiwenga to India in 2019 for medical attention, he quickly recovered, but surprisingly, became gravely ill after returning home.

Chakanyuka postponed the matter to September 7 for continuation of trial.

 NewsDay

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US State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller last night said Zec should avail disaggregated polling station results.

The United States notes in particular the systemic bias against political opposition during the pre-election period and reports from respected civil society groups that Zec officials pressured election observers to sign altered polling station result forms.

We call on Zec to make the disaggregated polling station results publicly available to increase confidence in the result tabulation process, he said.

Miller also condemned the intimidation and disruption of lawful election observers throughout the electoral period and arrest of staff from respected civil society organisations observing the elections.

These arrests prevented efforts to independently verify Zecs announced results, a fundamental component of democratic processes in the region and around the world.

Furthermore, threats directed against members of the Sadc electoral observation mission are dangerous, and we call upon the government of Zimbabwe to cease these inflammatory and unacceptable attacks, he said.

Miller added that the actions belied President Emmerson Mnangagwas repeated pledges to respect the rule of law, transparency, and accountability.

The United States is engaging regional leaders to share our concerns, including what this means for the international communitys nascent efforts to re-engage the Zimbabwean government.

There is much at stake for the people of Zimbabwe and the region. We urge all Zimbabweans to remain peaceful and pursue grievances through established legal channels, he said.

Across the Limpopo, South Africa, in a statement yesterday, congratulated Zimbabwe for organising and holding the harmonised elections to elect the President, National Assembly and Local government representatives.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa said: I congratulate President Emmerson Mnangagwa on his re-election. I wish him and the people of Zimbabwe well for the upcoming term.

Namibian President Hage Geingob also congratulated Mnangagwa, tweeting: On behalf of the people and Government of the Republic of Namibia, I extend warmest congratulations to @edmnangagwa on his re-election as President of Zimbabwe. I also extend felicitations to @ZANUPF_Official, our sister party, on the victory in the peaceful elections of 23-08-23.

Meanwhile, the Zimbabwe Coalition on Debt and Development (Zimcodd) yesterday called on government to uphold the rule of law and protect human rights to build a thriving democracy.

Upholding the rule of law and protecting human rights are critical aspects of a thriving democracy. Zimbabwe must prioritise the independence of the Judiciary, guarantee freedoms of expression, assembly, and association, and ensure the safety of journalists and activists, Zimcodd

By doing so, the country can build an environment where citizens feel secure in expressing their views and participating in the political process.

The organisation said the African Charter emphasised the importance of accountable and effective governance.

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RETIRED High Court judge Justice November Tafuma Mtshiya has died. He was 77.

He collapsed at his Highlands home on Sunday after complaining of severe chest pains.

Justice Mtshiya retired as a judge of the High Court of Zimbabwe in 2016.

He was a sought-after commercial arbitrator as an integral part of the Commercial Arbitration Centres pool of arbitrators and mediators, veteran lawyer and Alpha Media Holdings Editorial Advisory Board chairman Muchadeyi Masunda told NewsDay.

My enduring memory of him is that he was the epitome of a refined and courteous man of tremendous goodwill, Masunda said.

Justice Mtshiya joined forces with Retired judge Justice Moses Chinhengo under the auspices of the African Institute of Mediation & Arbitration in Harare and also served on the Lesotho Court of Appeal.

He is survived his widow Tawona Susan and three grown up children  Nqobile, Tapuwa and Fikile.

 NewsDay

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The Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) has come under fire from opposition parties, as the United Zimbabwe Alliance (UZA) joins the main opposition Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) in criticizing the commission for its handling of the recently concluded harmonized elections.

UZA, led by presidential candidate Elisabeth Valerio, issued a statement on Monday, highlighting various issues that marred the electoral process, including significant delays in delivering ballot papers to certain polling stations and instances of politically motivated violence.

In the election results, President Emmerson Mnangagwa was declared the winner with 52.6 percent of the vote, while CCC leader Nelson Chamisa, his closest rival, secured 44 percent of the national vote. Zanu PF maintained its parliamentary majority with 136 seats, while CCC won 73 seats.

Elvis Dzvene, spokesperson for UZA, voiced concerns over the unclear printing on the presidential ballot paper, alleging that it disadvantaged their candidate, who received 6,989 votes. Dzvene pointed out that Mnangagwas image was clearer on the ballot paper, raising suspicions of bias.

Dzvene further expressed disappointment with ZECs failure to provide local authority ballot papers on time, despite earlier assurances. This delay potentially contributed to voter apathy, as citizens at affected polling stations were forced to vote at night without adequate lighting, posing safety concerns.

UZA also raised issues regarding voters being disenfranchised due to missing names on the voters roll and the unprofessional conduct of some polling officers, which resulted in voting delays.

Dzvene criticized the involvement of Forever Associates of Zimbabwe (FAZ), alleging their affiliation with Zanu PF, and accused them of engaging in voter intimidation tactics that undermined the credibility of the election.

Additionally, Dzvene mentioned politically motivated violence and the presence of exit poll survey desks near polling stations adorned with Zanu PF symbols, which caused intimidation among voters and questioned the fairness of the election.

The CCC has previously expressed dissatisfaction with the election process, a sentiment echoed by international election observer missions.

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How did Brazil, a country that until recently was heavily dependent on cash, reach a point where its politicians are now considering eliminating it altogether? One of the answers is a three-letter word that is now ubiquitous across the country: Pix.

It is interesting to watch the starkly different approaches being taken by governments around the world when it comes to managing the role of cash in todays rapidly digitising economies. The government of Sweden, one of the worlds most cashless economies, has passed legislation to protect access to cash while neighbouring Norway is considering strengthening the right to use cash in retail settings, after cash usage in both countries has dropped to an alarming low.

Slovakias government has enshrined the right to pay in cash in the national constitution. Other governments, including Switzerlands and Austrias, could end up doing the same. In the US, the state of Florida has passed legislation seeking to prohibit the use of a federally sanctioned central bank digital currency as money. Italys Meloni government has raised the ceiling for cash payments to 5,000, from 2,000, despite sharp criticism from the Bank of Italy and the European Commission. Austria refuses to place any ceiling at all.

Other governments, like the UKs, are happy to stand by and watch as cash dies a slow, quiet death at the hands of the banks, tech giants, fintechs, big box retailers and payment processors. In Australia, the big banks are withdrawing cash services from many of their branches and imposing all sorts of restrictions on cash withdrawals without even a whimper of complaint from the government or regulators. As in the UK, a public backlash is brewing.

Calling for an End to Cash

In Ukraine, one of Europes most cash-dependent economies, the Zelensky government has unveiled plans to eliminate physical money altogether, as part of a hare-brained scheme to stamp out rampant corruption. Zelensky is reportedly very determined to move Ukraine, a country still suffering from waves of rolling power blackouts and internet outages, towards a cashless economy as swiftly as possible. And he apparently has the full support of Australias richest man.

Latin Americas largest economy, Brazil, may be on a similar path, albeit with probably greater likelihood of actually reaching the destination. Last week, it was revealed that the countrys Chamber of Deputies is mulling a number of legislative proposals calling for an end to the printing, minting and circulation of physical notes and coins. According to Brazilian online newspaper R7 Noticias, three of the bills in question call for all financial transactions to be exclusively digital as demand for physical currency dwindles.

The first proposal, presented way back in 2016 by deputy Gilberto Nascimento of the Social Democratic Party, seeks to eliminate the use of coins and cash bills completely. All financial transactions, it says, should be carried out virtually, through applications and electronic platforms. The bill is under consideration by the Constitution, Justice and Citizenship Committee.

The second proposal, tabled by Paulo Ramos in 2020, a former deputy of the Democratic Labour Party, prescribes a more incremental approach. First, the three largest denomination bills (R$50, R$100 and R$200) should be abolished, and then over the next two years the remaining banknotes and coins should be gradually phased out, This project has been under discussion in the Finance and Taxation Committee since last year.

The third proposal, also from 2020, is under the purview of the Economic Development Commission. Proposed by Reginaldo Lopes, the current leader of the governing PT caucus in the Chamber of Deputies, recommends setting a deadline for the elimination of all production, circulation and use of cash and that all financial transactions after that date take place only through the digital realm.

The Power of Pix

Although all three of the proposals were presented by current or former members of Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silvas Workers Party or its current coalition partners, it is not clear, at least to me, what Lulas governments actual position is on the question of cashs future.

Nonetheless, one cant help wondering: how did Brazil, an emerging market economy that, like most countries in Latin America, was heavily dependent on cash until just three years ago, reach a point where the amount of cash in circulation is steadily falling and at least three legislative committees are considering proposals to eliminate cash altogether in the not-too-distant-future? One of the answers to that question is a three-letter word that has become ubiquitous throughout Brazil: Pix.

Launched by the Central Bank of Brazil in November 2020, Pix is, in the central banks own words, an instant payment scheme that enables its users  people, companies and governmental entities  to send or receive payment transfers in few seconds at any time, including non-business days. Carrying zero fees for individual customers and low costs for businesses (at least for now), the instant payment scheme has been an instant success. From El Pais (translated by yours truly):

The word Pix is one of the most spoken words by Brazilians, whether rich or poor, urban dweller or villager, with or without a phone line or electricity. They have embraced the instant payment system  so enthusiastically that it has become the most commonly used form of payment, ahead of (cash), credit and debit cards.* On a Thursday in April it clocked 120 million transactions in 24 hours. It is used for everything. To pay the plumber, pay for lunch, drinks in the street bars, the electricity bill, a family vacation or buy jewellery on Instagram from indigenous artisans. As proof of its prevelance, in Sao Paulo, where cash is on its way to becoming a rarity, there are many homeless people who write down their Pix code on a cardboard for anyone who wants to give them a few real. Small entrepreneurs and micro-entrepreneurs are delighted; so too are the banks, because what they lose in commissions they gain in new customers.

Security Issues

Pix, as El Pais notes, was born during the COVID-19 pandemic, though it was designed, developed and piloted in the preceding years. The rate of uptake has been nothing short of blistering, with Pix now boasting 146 million users, 134 million of them individuals (roughly two thirds of the population) and 12 million, companies.

But that still means that around a third of Brazilians are not using it. Many of them will still be using cash, whose future seems somewhat less bright. Between 2013 and 2022, the total amount of cash withdrawn from branches and ATMs annually more than halved, from BRL 4.8 trillion to BRL 2.1 trillion.

Brazilians are adopting digital payments faster than anyone else, trumpeted an article by the World Economic Forum last year. There are plenty of reasons for this, including an almost three-fold increase in the number of authorised financial institutions in the country since 2020. These newly created FinTech companies, together with Central Bank-led initiatives such as Pix, are providing access to bank accounts for the first time to millions of people, the WEF report notes.

Pix has its drawbacks, however, particularly when it comes to security:

[C]riminals have managed to take advantage of it. Cell phone theft has increased in some large cities and the police point out that the real target is not the device itself but the possibility of using it to empty bank accounts via Pix.

The central bank has apparently tightened Pixs security in recent months. One would certainly hope so, given that one of the most frequent arguments for replacing cash with digital money alternatives is to help reduce crime, rather than making it easier and a lot more lucrative. In August 2021 UOL reported an explosion in the incidence of express kidnappings in Sao Paulo following the launch of the instant payments solution. In March of this year, the global tech blog Rest of World published an article on a worrying new trend sweeping many of Brazils cities  Tinder robberies:

Joao Eleuterio da Silva, a 51-year-old man from Sao Paulo, has changed his dating habits on Tinder over the past year and a half. Hes afraid of becoming another victim of the recent spate of kidnappings, money transfer scams, and even homicides  all of which start by luring men like him on dating apps. So, when his Tinder match, a woman decades younger than him, showed intense interest but refused to meet in public, he became suspicious. The offer [of company] was too easy, da Silva told Rest of World. I didnt feel safe and ended up not following up with the conversation. His behavior is not unwarranted: Police statistics show that nine out of 10 kidnappings in Sao Paulo in the past year have occurred after a date was arranged through Tinder and similar apps. According to Eduardo Bernardo Pereira, a police officer from the Sao Paulo anti-kidnapping division, men like da Silva  ranging from 30 to 65 years old  are the main targets. The fear over what have become known as Tinder robberies has left thousands of Brazilians on dating apps to devise their own safety measures The rise in scams has coincided with the widespread adoption of two forms of technology: dating apps and mobile payment. A combination of recent factors has made men particularly vulnerable to this form of scam in Brazil. Criminals use fake dating app profiles to lure unsuspecting targets to a private place with ease, and then take their money using PIX  an instant QR payment method used by 67% of Brazilians. Criminals have found they can use PIX to extract large quantities of cash from the victims they scam using apps like Tinder For many Brazilians, the popular PIX app is a fast and efficient mode of payment. It is this very efficiency and ease of use that have made it the perfect tool for these sorts of scams. Though the Central Bank of Brazil categorically states each transaction is completely traceable, authorities still need additional corroborating evidence  say, CCTV footage  to be able to confirm that any given transaction was the result of coercion. This is why Tinder scammers are not only adamant about meeting potential victims in quiet and secluded areas, but also take extra precautions, such as using bank accounts that dont belong to them, to quickly distribute the money and make traceability even harder, Fabio Assolini, head of research at Kaspersky Latin America, a cybersecurity company, told Rest of World.

Drex Next?

Although the almost 10% fall in circulation of notes and coins over the past three years almost perfectly coincides with the launch of Pix, the Central Bank of Brazil does not attribute the drop in cash use to the roll out of the instant payments system, arguing that it will take more time to clearly map out the evolution of its impacts. The economist Luis Oreiro begs to differ, telling R7 Noticias:

There is no need for banknotes. Nowadays, most transactions are done electronically, either through debit and credit cards or through Pix. I imagine that the reduction in the volume of banknotes was due to Pix, which is an electronic transfer system.

Oreiro believes that the decline of cash use is likely to further accelerate following the upcoming launch of Brazils central bank digital currency, which was officially given a name by the central bank earlier this month: Drex. Heres an excerpt of the official English-language press release:

Drex arrives to make life easier for Brazilians. With a new logo, the Brazilian digital currency project (CBDC), created and operated by Banco Central do Brasil (BCB), has been renamed Drex. Previously referred to as Real Digital, it will provide a secure and regulated environment for developing new businesses and more democratic access to the benefits of the economys digitalization, both for individuals and entrepreneurs. The logo, developed by the BCB, is a combination of letters that forms a word with a strong and modern sound: d and r allude to the Real Digital; e stands for electronic, and x conveys the idea of modernity and connection, as well as the Distributed Ledger Technology (DLT) that underpins Drex. Drexs visual concept fits into the context of the modernization agenda carried out by the BCB (Agenda BC#) and uses graphic and typographical elements that refer to the digital universe.

The CBDC is currently in the pilot phase, the final stage of the development process, and according to R7 is expected to go live in late 2024. In July, a blockchain developer claimed to have reverse-engineered Brazils pilot CBDC, reports the German financial journalist Norbert Haring:

In Brazil, after the source code of the planned Real Digi (NC: recently renamed Drex) was published, the Portal do Bitcoin found that it contains features that allow any entity authorised by the central bank to freeze, confiscate, or move funds belonging to any owner. I put owner in quotation marks because in this system, you have limited control over your assets if they are managed in these ledgers. According to a report by the news portal tkp.at, the Brazilian central bank has confirmed the functions and reassuringly announced that not all functions of the test version would be included in the final version. But why test such functions if you dont want to use them? Even if they should not be included in the code at the first release of the CBDC, for fear of protests, they could be added later at any time.

Interestingly, according to the Atlantic Councils global CBDC tracker, one of the go-to resources for keeping tabs on CBDC trends and developments, Brazils CBDC program is not even at the pilot stage, which would suggest that the tracker needs to do some catching up.

Even more interesting, of the 21 countries that have reached the pilot stage of development according to the CBDC tracker (22 if you include Brazil), eight of them (nine if you include Brazil) are BRICS members. They include, of course, China, which has been working on a digital yuan since 2014 and is closer than any G20 economy to launching a full-fledged CBDC. The other BRICS members that are also piloting CBDCs are Brazil, India, Russia, South Africa, Saudi Arabia, Iran, the United Arab Emirates.

In other words, the BRICS economies  with the two obvious exceptions of Argentina and Ethiopia  are leagues ahead of most economies in the so-called Collective west when it comes to developing CBDCs. In fact, the only Western central banks that have so far reached the pilot stage of CBDC development are the Reserve Bank of Australia and Swedens Riksbank.
Yves here. Weve pointed out that InfoBRICS makes no bones about its editorial point of view, not unlike other outlets whose material we sometimes syndicate, such as Common Dreams and Yale Climate Connections. Weve pointed out from the inception of this website that potable waters was the natural resource set to come under very serious stress first, with the crunch time estimated then as early as 2040. So this piece fills a gap by highlighting the biggest water conflict, industry versus the environment, and some observations on how the US is playing it.

By Uriel Araujo, researcher with a focus on international and ethnic conflicts. Originally published at InfoBRICS

Much has been written on the global energy, food and fuel crises. I wrote before on how todays fuel warsin the Levant (which includes attacks on vessels) are made worse by US sanctions. Beyond fuel, it is common knowledge that many wars are fought over access to resources and it is also common sense to state that future wars may be over water rather than oil. Oil and water may not mix, as the saying goes, but the truth is that water, energy, oil, and even food are quite obviously connected. Not so much has been said or written, though, about United States plans for water hegemony.

When one hears about water conflicts, North Africa usually comes to mind first. Ive written on how tensions between Ethiopia and Sudan over water have been on the rise and also on how the current Egyptian-Ethiopian hydropolitical dispute, pertaining to the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) project, could escalate and turn into a regional water war. Rather than being something that could appear in the future, water conflicts are far from being rare events: they are rising internationally, mostly on local and intra-national levels but quite often on the international level also. Take the Russian-Ukrainian confrontation, for instance: in 2020, Kiev blocked the North Crimean Canal, thereby bringing about huge humanitarian problems and a water crisis, as the Canal is known to provide around 85% of Crimeas drinking water.

Environmental issues are pressing matters which increasingly gain importance in the context of rising deforestation and pollution. No one denies that. At the same time, no one should deny the fact that great and emerging powers routinely weaponize environmental agendas in their disputes.

The Amazon river system, which could actually be longer than the Nile, is at the center of a number of controversies, both locally and abroad. In Brazil, for example, Senator Randolfe Rodrigues and other lawmakers believe new oil finds could boost the economy of the Brazilian northern state of Amapa  90% of which is within the Amazon rainforest. However, the Brazilian Institute for the Environment and Renewable Natural Resources, or IBAMA, which is the agency responsible for enforcing federal environmental laws, denied a requisition from Brazils national oil company Petrobras to drill at the Amazon river basins mouth. This has sparked an ongoing political standoff.

Brazils attorney generals office, or AGU, released an opinion on August 23 stating that a major impact study that the aforementioned IBAMA is demanding in fact is not necessary for the drilling project. This could pave the way for drilling, but the legal and political dispute has not been settled yet  and this places Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva at a complicated situation: his vocal commitment to high environmental standards has certainly been one of his main assets in dealing with the US-led West, according to Andre Pagliarini, a nonresident fellow at the Washington Brazil Office and Quincy Institute for Responsible Statecraft. Lula has been under a lot of Western pressure to take a pro-Ukrainian stand but has maintained a mostly non-aligned position. His environmental credentials give him international credibility, so to speak, as the West increasingly pushes the green agenda. For Lula, Pagliarini says, the issue risks alienating Washington and Brussels for good.

It is always a challenge to reconcile, on the one hand, industrial and developmental needs and, on the other, environmental concerns. Those are complex endeavors, involving delicate technical issues. In any case, right now, Washington has geopolitical and geoeconomics interests in limiting Brazils access to the Amazon water resources. The American hypocrisy, as often happens, is quite blatant: the White House this year said US President Joe Biden does not regret endorsing Ford F-150, an electric truck that damages the Amazon river (the aluminum used poisons the waters).

The March 22-24 UN 2023 Water Conference was the first global conference on freshwater in almost 50 years, and the US played a major role in it. Washington has committed over $49 billion to advance the cause of equitable access to water, at home and globally. The irony is that nearly half of the tap water in the US is permanently contaminated according to a study from the US Geological Survey). Rather than simply leading by example, Washington seems to be trying to build a framework for the usage of world water resources analogous to Paris climate agreements. It is not necessarily just about environmental concerns per se, but it arguably has a lot to do with American well known appetite for hegemony.

The same game can be seen in Central Asia, with USAID Smart Water projects: it is about redirecting water resources to Afghanistan to restore American presence in that country, influencing Central Asian economic cooperation. American policies have already worsened water scarcity in North Africa and the Middle East. What happened at Libyas Great Man-Made River project, a network of pipes supplying fresh water (the worlds largest irrigation project) is one of the most revolting examples. On 22 July 2011, during US-led foreign military intervention in that country, the Brega Plant, one of the two plants making pipes for the aforementioned project, was bombed by a NATO air strike. NATO officials at the time argued, without proof, that the plant was used as a military storage facility This was basically a war crime targeting civilian infrastructure and has a lot to do with the politics of water. With such a record, Washington has no moral standing to promote water equity.

Managing water access is one of the great challenges of the twenty-first century, and one should expect to see many more disputes and conflicts arising over that issue, both intra-nationally and internationally  sadly, environmental rhetoric will often be used as a tool by a superpower such as the United States.
Yves here. Below Andrew Korybko, among other issues, is talking up the prospect of a ceasefire and a frozen conflict. While Ukraine and the US may think thats a viable endgame, this again is another instance of the dynamic we described in our May post, US Geopolitics: Believing Impossible Things:

But to me, the most intriguing is the weird bargaining, which very much like bargaining over death, is bargaining with yourself. For some time, since at least General Mark Milleys quickly deflated trial balloon last November, there has been more and more talk from pundits and even sometimes from officials how Ukraine should negotiate with Russia, after some sort of retaking of ground so as to better Ukraines bargaining position. Of course, the idea that Russia will do anything more than go through the motions of negotiating for appearances sake is delusional. As former Indian diplomat M. K. Bhadrakumar reminded readers in his latest post, Putin warned Ukraine and its backers last July, the longer the conflict lasted, the harder it will be to negotiate with us. That was before Merkel and Hollande bragged about their Minsk Accords duplicity, which has led Putin to make embittered statements about what a mistake it had been to try to cooperate.

The ceasefire/frozen conflict talk is a new variant of what we saw in May. There is no way, given present facts, that Russia would agree to that.

First, Russia has deemed four formerly Ukraine oblasts as Russian territory. It has not secured full control of them and that step would be the bare minimum that Russia would accept, which means more territorial acquisition. Second and even more important, a stated aim of the Special Military Operation was the demilitarization of Ukraine, which the Istanbul negotiations showed could be met by the exit of NATO forces (little green men) and weapons from Ukraine and a commitment that Ukraine would never enter NATO. Note this negotiation took place before Porshenko, and later Merkel and Hollande admitted to entering into the Minsk Accords in bad faith and using it to buy time to arm Ukraine. The US and NATO officials have repeatedly said that who joins NATO is NATOs business and they will never agree to restrict membership. So that requires Russia to continue to prosecute the war until NATO members are so drained that they are not capable of mounting a threat for a long time.

Third and most important, the Russian public would not accept a ceasefire. Putin is one of the least belligerent individuals in Russian public life.

Russia might have a problem selling the Global South on continuing to prosecute the war if Ukraine were to declare a unilateral ceasefire. But Russia succeeded in persuading them that Russia was not the bad guy in refusing to extend the Ukraine grain deal, that Ukraine and the West had persistently failed to live up to their part of the bargain, which critically included allowing Russia to ship fertilizer, which many of these countries badly needed.

On top of that. other developments in Ukraine seem at odds with Zelenskys new improved war messaging. Alexander Mercouris report of August 28 gives two examples. One is that the Ukraine parliament is in the process of passing legislation to block any ceding of territory for peace (at 43:00). Second is that Ukraine plans yet another large mobilization (at 42:10).

So perhaps Zelensky is simply preparing the ground for a much wider set of options as his recent mantra of Ukraine settling only for its maximalist demands now clearly has no support among Ukraine allies (save the crazies in the Baltics who are not driving this train)

By Andrew Korybko, a Moscow-based American political analyst who specializes in the global systemic transition to multipolarity in the New Cold War. He has a PhD from MGIMO, which is under the umbrella of the Russian Foreign Ministry. Originally published at his website

Zelensky is clearly preparing his people for a ceasefire, but hes also talking about security guarantees from NATO and his countrys alleged production of its weapon systems, both of which will rankle Russia. The US recent elections pressure on him is for purely soft power purposes, but it still shows that their differences on a host of issues are growing after the failed counteroffensive.

The Kyiv Post reported on Zelenskys latest TV interview here, the highlights of which will be shared below and then analyzed in the larger context of the NATO-Russian proxy war in Ukraine:

* Zelensky is tacitly walking back his envisaged maximalist endgame by already declaring victory

 Its already clear that he [Putin] has not occupied us as he wanted. We did it, [we defended against his attack], this is already a great victory for the people.

* Hes preparing the public for freezing the conflict along the lines of the Israeli-Palestinian one

 We are ready to fight for a long time without losing people. It can be so. Minimize casualties following Israels example. You can live like that.

* Ukraine believes that itll lose Western support if it invades Russias pre-2014 territory

 There would be a big risk that we would be definitely left alone and on our own.

* The Israeli model will likely characterize US-Ukrainian ties for the indefinite future

 From the US, we probably have the Israeli model, where there are weapons, technologies, training, and financial aid.

* Hard and soft security guarantees are actively being pursued

 With the United States, it will be a more powerful bilateral treaty, with Britain  a strong one. There are states that simply do not have weapons, but they have finances, serious sanctions in case of repeated aggression.

* An official NATO intervention could trigger World War III

 We dont need them, because it would be a NATO war, and that would mean the Third World War.

* Ukraine might abandon military means for reconquering Crimea

 I believe that its possible to politically push for the demilitarization of Russia on the territory of the Ukrainian Crimea. That would be better. Any combat would still have losses [casualties], wherever it is. Everything must be calculated.

* Elections can be held next year if the West foots the bill and observers are sent to the trenches

 If you [allies] are ready to give me 5 billion because I cant just take 5 billion from the state budget. It seems to me that this is the amount needed to hold elections at a normal time. And in wartime, I dont know what this amount is, thats why I said  if the US and Europe give us financial support.

Im sorry, Im not asking for anything. I will not hold elections on credit. I will not take money from weapons and give it for elections either. The most important thing: lets take risks together. The observers should then be in the trenches, they will need to be sent to the front line

* Ukraine is now allegedly producing NATO weapon systems

 We have domestic artillery on the battlefield today, using NATO-standard 155mm shells, which have never been seen before in Ukraine. We now have production and production of not one system, but several systems.

These highlights show how drastically the conflicts dynamics have shifted in the nearly three months since the counteroffensive began.

The first takeaway from Zelenskys interview is that the counteroffensive failed, which is why hes preparing the public for freezing the conflict. This is being achieved by already declaring victory, suggesting that Crimea can be reconquered through political means instead of military ones on the pretext of saving his soldiers lives, and referencing the Israeli-Palestinian conflict as a future model. Ahead of that scenario, he wants to reassure his people that the West will still ensure their security.

To that end, he brought up the Israeli model as the likely way forward for US-Ukrainian relations together with a mix of hard and soft security guarantees from other NATO countries. Zelensky also appears aware of the Western publics growing concerns that hes leading everyone to World War III, which might be why he explicitly ruled out invading Russias pre-2014 territory together with denying that he has any interest in NATO formally intervening in his sides support.

About that, its already involved in this conflict via the arms, intelligence, logistics, mercenary, training, and other forms of support that its provided to the Ukrainian Armed Forces, but this is still below the level of dispatching uniformed troops to kill Russian soldiers. It also cant be discounted that hes worried about Poland unilaterally intervening in Western Ukraine, which readers can learn more about here and here, and that could be another reason why he warned that NATO troops could lead to World War III.

As for holding the now-delayed parliamentary elections sometime next year and not delaying the upcoming presidential ones that are scheduled for spring, this is a direct result of the pressure that Senator Lindsey Graham exerted on Zelensky during their meeting in Kiev last week. Its the latest evidence that the failed counteroffensive is widening preexisting differences between the US and Ukraine all across the board, in this case over superficial commitments to democracy.

Readers can learn more about the latest difficulties in their ties by reviewing the following analyses:

* A Vicious Blame Game Is Breaking Out After The Counteroffensive Predictably Failed

* US Policymakers Are Caught In A Dilemma Of Their Own Making After The Failed Counteroffensive

* The NYT & WSJs Critical Articles About Kievs Counteroffensive Explain Why It Failed

In sum, both sides know that the counteroffensive failed, but neither wants to take responsibility for this.

A ceasefire of some sort therefore appears inevitable. The problem, however, is that freezing the conflict entails considerable reputational damage to the American and Ukrainian leaderships. Neither has yet to feel comfortable enough that their people fully blame the other for this debacle, hence why they remain reluctant to take the first step in what might then become a fast-moving process. Its for this reason why they continue blaming each other and will likely continue doing so for the next few months at least.

President Putin made it clear on three occasions in mid-June that he was still interested in politically resolving the proxy war, but Zelenskys latest claim that Ukraine is allegedly producing NATO weapon systems means that his reputation might also be damaged if he agrees to a ceasefire. After all, the special operation was partly commenced to demilitarize Ukraine and specifically eliminate the threat that NATOs clandestine expansion there posed to Russias objective national security interests.

With Ukraine now openly producing NATO weapons systems, President Putin either has to ensure that these facilities are destroyed before agreeing to a ceasefire or informally freezing the conflict otherwise he stands to lose face among his domestic audience by tolerating this latent military threat. It might also be the case that Zelensky is just bluffing and could have lied about this just to make his Russian counterpart look bad in the event of a ceasefire, however, though nobody can really say for sure.

In any case, the Ukrainian leaders latest TV interview drove home the point that the conflicts dynamics have drastically shifted. Zelensky is clearly preparing his people for a ceasefire, but hes also talking about security guarantees from NATO and his countrys alleged production of its weapon systems, both of which will rankle Russia. The US recent elections pressure on him is for purely soft power purposes, but it still shows that their differences on a host of issues are growing after the failed counteroffensive.

Looking forward, observers can expect the aforesaid to widen, but not to the point of rupturing their relations. The US-Ukrainian blame game will intensify during this period too as each side prepares their people for the seemingly inevitable scenario of freezing the conflict. As this is happening, Russia might also begin preparing its own people for the same, which could move the conflict towards the Israeli-Palestinian model by sometime next year unless something serious happens to derail this trajectory.
The Richardson County Sheriff's Office said 60-year-old Joel Schutte of Holstein was westbound on Nebraska 8 just west of the intersection of Nebraska 105 about 2:45 Friday afternoon when his GMC Canyon entered the ditch on the north side of the highway, rolled and wound up in the ditch on the south side of the road.
Another brick in the disinformation wall

Commentary - There is a totalitarian tendency stalking the worlds democracies. It draws on the idea of misinformation and disinformation to try to delegitimise opposition to government policies, whatever they might happen to be at the moment.

(Article by Graham Young republished from TheEpochTimes.com)

What is misinformation or disinformation? While there are suitable dictionary definitionsthe first is accidentally untrue information, and the second is deliberately untrue information. These definitions beg the real questionWhat is truth, and how do you determine it?

This seems to have suddenly become a matter of pressing importance, particularly in the English-speaking world, with what looks suspiciously like a coordinated push by governments to introduce legislation to control untruths on the internet.

The UK has the Online Safety Bill, where truth is to be regulated by OFCOM, the Office of Communications. Ofcom is currently being taken to court by Canadian Mark Steyn because they fined him for interviewing Britains affected by vax injury.

Canada has a bevy of laws, and as we saw when the truckers bank accounts were frozen, in some of the harshest approaches ever seen to dissent by a democracy.

[caption id="" align="alignnone" width="595"] The last truck blocking the southbound lane moves after a breakthrough to resolve the impasse at a protest blockade at the Canada-U.S. border in Coutts, Alta., on Feb. 2, 2022. (Jeff McIntosh/The Canadian Press)[/caption]

While the United States is governed by the First Amendment guaranteeing free speech, the United States has a Disinformation Governance Board, and as the Twitter files have revealed, the U.S. federal government appears to clandestinely seek ways to evade the constitutionally guaranteed right to free speech.

They do this under the cloak of national security, and to achieve their aim, disrupting a school board meeting with legitimate questions can be called an act of domestic terrorism so as to draw ordinary Americans into their net.

Its no wonder then that Australia is now following the fashion and proposing to legislate the Communications Legislation Amendment (Combating Misinformation and Disinformation) Bill 2023.

Labor has always been keen on political censorship, and indeed, back in 2009, Stephen Conroy, then the communications minister, introduced legislation to filter the internet in Australia.

Where Has This Impetus Come From?

Moves to establish these controls seem to have surfaced somewhere in 2018 or 2019 in a number of these jurisdictions, but they really started to gain public support in 2020. Or at least thats a reasonable conclusion to draw from a review of Google searches on the two words.

[caption id="" align="alignnone" width="487"] Google search trends for misinformation and disinformation. (Screenshot/Google)[/caption]

The 2020 spikes all occur to coincide with the appearance of COVID-19, which with the states of emergency and heavily controlled narratives, explains why concern about disinformation would be high. But what was happening in 2004?

On March 20, 2003, the Iraq War started based on the premise Saddam Hussein had weapons of mass destruction.

In 2004, Google went public via an IPO (initial public offering), which explains why our graph starts there and suggests that if it had started earlier, we would have found the increase coincided with the ramping up of rhetoric against Saddam Hussein.

And what we now know is that the real misinformation and disinformation in 2003 was the government's line and that huge amounts of the COVID-19 information that came from the government in 2020 was also misinformation or disinformation.

Politics in the Backdrop

While it is in the nature of governments to try to suppress information unfavourable to their position, as Senator Conroys misadventure shows, it is difficult to get naked censorship over the line when the public is generally unworried.

What makes todays moves towards censorship dangerous is that the public is not only polarised, but they are scared, so a proportion is prepared to support online censorship because, in their own minds allowing someone elses free speech could be a threat to their lives.

[caption id="" align="alignnone" width="590"] People wearing protective face masks walk on the street in Brooklyn, New York, on Oct. 7, 2020. (Chung I Ho/The Epoch Times)[/caption]

Even so, the pushback against the proposed legislation in Australia has been quite extensive, including legal organisations like the Victorian Bar Council.

While there are good legal and free speech arguments against the proposed legislation, the most persuasive for me is the research on which the whole process is based, which demonstrates just how yesterdays misinformation is todays Gospel truth.

In 2017, the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) was asked to consider the impact of online search engines, social media and digital content aggregators (digital platforms) on competition in the media and advertising services markets.

Their report in 2019 was mostly about competition issues, but one section touched on misinformation, disinformation, and malinformation.

They did recommend that a body like the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) be empowered to police a code of conduct. However, in their report, the ACCC explicitly recommends excluding misinformation in any code of conduct and also limiting the types of disinformation that might be included.

That is because most of these matters can be dealt with by existing laws and institutions.

Why did ACMA ignore this report to produce the bill that it has? One must suspect political bias. Misinformation and disinformation are terms used more on the left than the right side of politics.

Inasmuch as both terms depend on what you believe to be true and there is this preponderance of usage on the left, then misinformation and disinformation become aligned with disputing things the left thinks are true.

COVID Misinformation

To get beyond the ACCC report, ACMA relies on research they commissioned from the News and Media Research Centre at the University of Canberra, which looked for exposure to misinformation on the internet on COVID-19.

Amongst other things, they test five propositions, some of them still beloved of the left but which we now know definitely to be either false or at the very least, matters of scientific dispute. These propositions had to do with the efficacy of masks, the safety of vaccines, that scientific best practice was being followed by governments, that the risks of COVID were not being exaggerated, and that supplements could not be used to treat COVID.

They also find that the more exposed to the internet you are, the more likely you are to delve beyond the mainstream and the more likely you are to be exposed to misinformation.

The surveying was done over the December 2020 to January 2021 period when vaccines werent even available and lockdowns were all too prevalent.

While you might have been able to make a case for the five propositions then, you certainly cant now. The subjective reality of the researchers is tipped on its head.

Those most exposed to digital platforms and less relatively exposed to mainstream media were the best informed.

It appears that the best antidote to misinformation is a free exchange of ideas.

Ironically, one of the most contentious parts of the ACMA proposal is that all government information be treated a priorias true and not subject to a code of conductletting the cat out of the bag as to its true purpose.

What Will Happen to the Public Exchange of Ideas

This bill is about partisan control by elements within the government and the public service who believe the public should unquestionably believe what they are told.

Imagine that principle being extended from COVID-19 to matters of race and biology.

[caption id="" align="alignnone" width="584"] Supporters hold placards during a Yes 23 community event in support of an Indigenous Voice to Parliament, in Sydney, Australia, on July 2, 2023. (AAP Image/Bianca De Marchi)[/caption]

If the bill were to be passed, what would even the Opposition be allowed to say about The Voice, given the constant refrain from the government that they are spreading misinformation.

It is hard to see ACMA not taking action to thwart the democratic process.

Australia doesnt have a bill of rights, but perhaps some simple propositions, like the right of citizens to dispute government information, should be embedded in the Constitution.

When you align the government and the public service together and then add massive corporations, sporting codes, and community groups like churches, it is very difficult for the truth to get out. But out it must if we are to continue as a successful, pluralist, liberal society.

We can only find out what is true by letting it duke it out with what is untrue. Sometimes in this approach, we find we were wrong in the first place.

Allowing a Nanny State actor to determine what is true will not lead to truth but to civil unrest and poverty.

Read more at: TheEpochTimes.com
ONLY IN AMERICA: Biden releases $77M to aid illegal immigration

Faced with uncontrolled illegal immigration in the U.S., the administration of President Joe Biden has added fuel to the fire by releasing an additional $77 million to 53 non-government organizations (NGOs) and cities in federal grants as assistance for sheltering border crossers and illegal aliens released into their communities.

The announcement was made earlier by Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas. According to John Binder of Breitbart News, the recipients include NGOs like the Catholic Charities, United Way, Mission: Border Hope, and Louisiana Advocates for Immigrants in Detention, which depend on illegal immigration to maintain their operations.

Sanctuary cities, such as Philadelphia, Chicago, Washington, D.C., Albuquerque and New York are also recipients of millions in taxpayer money through this program.

In sum, DHS has currently sent over $770 million to NGOs and sanctuary cities for their efforts to facilitate illegal immigration.

The bulk of taxpayer money is flowing through the newly created Shelter and Services Program (SSP), which was designed to funnel funding from the federal government to NGOs and sanctuary cities that assist with their mass immigration goals.

Grumbling among Democrats and sanctuary city officials

Since Biden took office, more than five million illegal aliens have been encountered along the U.S.-Mexico border with millions released directly into American communities. Some Democrats and sanctuary city officials are reportedly complaining to the White House about the growing cost of illegal immigration.

In his published report, Binder said a number of current and former Biden administration officials who spoke anonymously to CBS News, Democrats in Congress and those representing sanctuary cities have said illegal immigration is crippling their public infrastructure, social services and immigration courts. (Related: So-called 'Sanctuary City' declares public emergency over migrants being bused to DC.)

In New York City alone, more than 100,000 border crossers and illegal aliens arrived since the spring of last year.

"In every part of New York, the system is strained," a Biden official told CBS News. "The courts are backlogged. There are lines outside the ICE [Immigration and Customs Enforcement] office. Shelters are full. It's just too many people."

Biden has added an illegal alien population to the U.S. equivalent to that of Nebraska and Hawaii, according to Subcommittee on Immigration Integrity, Security, and Enforcement chairman Tom McClintock.

"You've already released more than 2.1 million illegal immigrants into this country since you took office  that's a population the size of the state of Nebraska," McClintock told Mayorkas last month.

"While the Border Patrol has been consumed by taking names and changing diapers at the border, 1.5 million known getaways have illegally entered the country as well. That's an additional illegal population the size of the state of Hawaii."

Binder reported that the cost to Americans is enormous.

Annually, the 11 to 12 million illegal aliens living in the U.S. cost taxpayers more than $143 billion. It does not include any of the social and economic costs associated with illegal immigrants, such as higher housing prices, depleted wages, lost jobs, increased crime and strained public resources at hospitals and schools.

Last March, Senate Republicans reintroduced a resolution to return the public charge rule to its prior version.

In early 2020, the Donald Trump Administration finalized a federal regulation known as the "public charge" rule that made it less likely for foreign nationals to secure green cards if they had previously used welfare programs like food stamps, Medicaid or taxpayer-funded housing.

However, Biden threw out the rule imposed by Trump, blowing open the door for welfare-dependent immigration to the United States.

The House also filed an identical version of the latest resolution.

"We have millions of our own American citizens without health insurance and receiving SNAP benefits, as well as hundreds of thousands sleeping on the streets at night," Texas Rep. Troy Nehls said. "Instead of making it a priority to find our citizens homes, meals and health insurance, Joe Biden continues to exacerbate the issue."

Visit InvasionUSA.news for more stories about Joe Biden's soft immigration policies.

Watch this video showing New York City Mayor Eric Adams finally pushing President Joe Biden to do something about illegal aliens.

This video is from the Red Voice Media channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

NYC Mayor Adams: Illegal immigration under Biden has become a NATIONAL CRISIS.

Biden reimplements Trump-era immigration rule he criticized during 2020 campaign ahead of Title 42 ending.

Sources include:

BigLeaguePolitics.com

Breitbart.com

Hydesmith.Senate.gov

Brighteon.com
Media Blackout: Black curtains go up in Lahaina blocking view of ground zero investigation, clean up

(Article by Adan Salazar republished from InfoWars.com)

Video courtesy of citizen journalist Geoff Cygnus on TikTok depicts miles of fencing and curtains have been put up alongside Front Street, one of Lahainas main highways, obstructing the view of ongoing activities.

Miles and miles of black fencing being put up in Lahaina. Ground Zero is now behind the Biden curtain. pic.twitter.com/krmxr4XcCr  Citizen Free Press (@CitizenFreePres) August 28, 2023

There seems to be a huge emphasis on ensuring that the media and anyone else cant see whats going on, Cygnus reported in a recent video.

There are miles and miles of this black fence going up that was not here before that is obscuring ground zero and making sure no one can see whats going on inside of there from the road, no one can get in there, no one can take any pictures.

Moreover, Cygnus said he was told to leave by National Guard members as he attempted to film the new black curtains from the side of the road, underscoring how authorities are keen on keeping the operation under wraps.

Why would they do this if they have nothing to hide? asked one X user.

Why would they do this if they have nothing to hide?  Fauxhammer (@FauxhammerTX) August 27, 2023

News of the cordoned-off zones comes as questions linger over the hundreds of missing Lahaina residents, with numerous journalists reporting theyve been told not to film, or fly drones in the area, and FEMA advising workers not to take photos or video.

EXCLUSIVE ? | A person wishing to stay anonymous has sent me this email by FEMA sent to their nonprofit who is headed to Maui to help with disaster relief. They say they are being asked to STOP posting any images or videos while on the ground effective immediately. pic.twitter.com/hdZy5ubwvv  Anthony Cabassa (@AnthonyCabassa_) August 21, 2023

The mayor of Maui, in the meantime, has instilled zero confidence in residents, instead threatening to shut down press briefings in response to questions over how many children are among the missing.

Meanwhile, disturbing reports have emerged that police set up blockades and trapped people from being able to escape to safety as the wildfires raged on August 8, further adding to the mystery of whether people died due to a natural disaster, or administrative murder.

Read more at: InfoWars.com
China now building an airstrip on disputed island in South China Sea

Alarming satellite images taken this August show that China has started construction of an airstrip on a disputed island in the South China Sea (SCS).

Analysis of a satellite image from Planet Labs PBC suggests that there is new construction on Triton Island, the westernmost island of the Paracel Islands near Vietnam.

China has occupied the Paracel Islands since the 1970s, but Taiwan and Vietnam also lay claim to the archipelago.

Compared with a Planet Labs PBC satellite image of the same island early in March, the latest image shows Beijing has been busy building up the island, which is about one mile by several thousand feet across.

Chinese airstrip could house aircraft and drones

Reports suggest that construction of the airstrip on Triton Island started within the last several weeks. According to the Associated Press, the airstrip could be more than 600 meters (2,000 feet) long, big enough for turboprop aircraft and drones.

The Triton Island airstrip is the latest indication that Beijing is staying on task to militarize islands as part of a broader strategy to expand Chinas presence in the South China Sea.

In 2022, China fully militarized three islands in the South China Sea. According to the Pentagon, the move could be part of the country's goal to destabilize the area. It could also allow China to extend its offensive capabilities beyond its own shores using flying fighters, bombers and other methods.

When pressed for answers, China has little to say about its construction work on islands in the South China Sea. The country only said that the project would help ships safely navigate the South China Sea. China also claimed that the construction is "defensive in nature."

China has at times denied that it is building man-made islands in the South China Sea. The country also refuses to admit it is militarizing the region, which sees $5 trillion worth of trade pass through each year. (Related: Chinese fighter jet flies too close to US recon plane flying over South China Sea.)

Beijing's recent behavior has become more aggressive

Despite claims to the contrary, there is proof that Beijing has been slowly building up reefs into islands in the South China Sea for years. Beijing has gradually been adding more military outposts and assets such as missiles, radar systems and airstrips.

In several cases where islands didn't exist, China has strong-armed the creation of new islands in the sea. The aggressive move has earned criticism from the U.S., which sanctioned Chinese entities that help Beijing build artificial islands and militarize them.

Kitsch Liao, assistant director of the Atlantic Councils Global China Hub, warned that these ambitious projects could help China with key logistics and enable it to "project force." This is worrying because of Beijings increasingly aggressive and coercive behavior in the area in recent months.

Liao thinks the goal of the airstrip construction is recon, targeting and surveillance. Knowing what you can see and track is "the most important thing in the first opening shot of any potential war," even in the runup to that, he added.

Within the last few years, China has equipped some Spratly Islands with anti-ship and anti-aircraft missile systems, as well as laser and jamming equipment and fighter jets. China steadily growing its territorial claims could be what it needs to successfully shape potential conflict in the region.

It remains to be seen if the islands would survive in a war. Si-fu Ou, from the Institute for National Defense and Security Research in Taiwan, warned that China could be aiming for "preparatory steps for conflict."

The Great Walls of SCS have been built on sand, which leaves the area vulnerable during war because they are not defensible. But during peacetime, the man-made islands are ideal for different missions, such as "presence, ISR (intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance), situation awareness and gray zone-tactics," said Ou.

Ou added that the airstrip under construction on Triton Island could help China threaten Vietnam, which he believes is China's grand strategy in the SCS.

According to preliminary assessment, the buildup on Triton Island may be a secondary base in the Paracel Islands which could be used as an auxiliary base for the main base on Woody Island.

Woody Island is Chinas major military base in the Paracel Islands. It has an estimated population of 1,000 and houses an airstrip, hangars for combat aircraft and HQ-9 surface-to-air missile batteries.

Triton Island airstrip could help China seize Taiwan

Brad Martin, a retired U.S. Navy officer and a senior policy researcher at RAND Corporation, said the Triton Island buildup could also be China's attempt at making a potential move to seize Taiwan harder for its enemies to successfully counteract.

Despite claiming that its island buildup is defensive, there have been growing concerns that Beijings expanding influence and military outposts in the region could make it easy for China to send military assets to the islands when things go south.

China's aggression has also raised questions about whether the country is now powerful enough to intervene with vital trade routes or try to hinder the transit of foreign nations aircraft or vessels while also claiming islands and nearby waters.

China's buildup on islands overlaps with the territorial interests of several countries, including Brunei, the Philippines, Malaysia, Taiwan and Vietnam. Aside from Chinas increasing threats to Taiwan, the former's aggressive behavior toward Vietnam has been growing in the last few months.

Back in May, a Chinese research ship and five escort vehicles declined orders to leave Vietnams Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), the area of ocean that extends 200 nautical miles beyond a nations territorial sea.

When confronted about the entry into Vietnams EEZ, Chinas foreign ministry was nonchalant about the issue, saying that the country is free to traverse the islands China lays claim to and their adjacent waters.

In 2023, Chinas Coast Guard also had several encounters with the Philippines in the Spratly Islands.

China laying claim to islands by starting facilities and outposts

The construction on Triton Island as well as other islands in the SCS is part of Beijings strategy to prove the islands are China's property.

Establishing facilities and outposts and moving people to these islands means Beijing wants to establish a "pattern of life" that emphasizes it is simply claiming Chinese territory.

Martin said that this move is sending a clear message: China has a right to be there and the country is bravely challenging others to dispute its claims.

The move has been ongoing yet gradual to perhaps ensure that the U.S. will not feel threatened enough to act, but it is enough to stake a claim in what China believes is its rightful territory.

The U.S. is currently trying to send a different message: The waters around these islands are not waters China can lawfully claim by conducting "freedom of navigation operations" (FONOPs) near the disputed islands.

Additionally, the U.S. has sent a U.S. guided-missile destroyer to conduct FONOPs near the Paracel and Spratly Islands on at least two occasions this year, just like it did in previous years, to prove the point. Ironically, the operations earned protests from Beijing, which claims the FONOPs violate Chinas sovereignty.

Throughout the years, Triton Island seemed to have a crucial part in Beijings claim over the Paracel Islands, where large regions of territory are displaying Chinas flag.

The satellite photos from Planet Labs reveal two large fields with what seem to be objects meant to represent Chinas flag and the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). It's still unclear if the construction on Triton Island will stop once the airstrip is finished.

However, China is maintaining its narrative. Recently, a foreign ministry spokesperson claimed in a press conference that Triton Island is "part of Chinas inherent territory."

Visit CommunistChina.news for the latest news about China.

Watch the video below to learn more about how China's economy is moving into dangerous territory.

This video is from the NewsClips channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

Russia and China pledge friendship, denounce the West.

China launches massive air, sea military exercise in practice run to invade Taiwan.

U.S. warns China about plans to increase military drills in South China Sea region.

Sources include:

DNYuz.com

TheDrive.com

Brighteon.com
Hard proof now confirms COVID jab genocide of the unborn & purposely vax-injured babies

The following interview with Dr. James Thorp, a board certified obstetrician-gynecologist, about the disastrous effects of the Covid vaccines on pregnancies and the unborn confirms the very worst about this highly organized genocide of fetal life.

(Article republished from StateOfTheNation.co)

The riveting exchange presented below details how HHS paid millions to get thousands of doctors to damage women as well as both hurt and kill their babies. The untold tragedy here is that tens of millions of children are now consigned to a life of extreme pain and suffering due to chronic disease and lifelong illnesses inflicted by the various Covid injections.

The big reveal, of course, is how the vast majority of physicians across the USA grabbed their cash dollar bribes instead of serving the serious medical needs of their trusting patients. To call this extremely sad state of medical affairs a well planned genocide does not even come close to the slowly emerging grim reality. For this immense crime wave committed against all of humanity will continue to roll over the planet for many decades to come, and with such severe consequences of which many are not even yet known.

When the final death and injury tally is taken of this Khazarian-directed crime spree, the Covid Super Vaccination Agenda will be known as the Extinction Level Event that it truly is.

The Covenant of Death

The Most Devastating Interview of my Life  with Dr James Thorp: How HHS Paid Millions to get 1000s of Drs to Damage Women; Hurt, Kill Babies.

DR NAOMI WOLF

Outspoken with Dr Naomi Wolf

Please forgive my recent silence. I am locked in an apartment in Brooklyn, copyediting a new book (out in November with Chelsea Green), titled Facing the Beast. You can guess what it is about.

But I have also had to take a breath for a week or two to manage my own emotions, because what I have learned in the last few weeks is so very devastating, regarding the plans of the evildoers of our moment, to destroy, or restrict severely the powers of humanity, via destroying babies and human fertility.

We learned in DailyClouts Report 69 that Pfizer knew that they were killing babies in utero and that they knew they were making nursing newborns, born to vaccinated moms, severely ill. And they proceeded to urge this mRNA injection on pregnant women. As did The New York Times (which, I gather, is running a hit piece on me shortly, surely coincidentally). As did Dr Rochelle Walensky, who told all the pregnant women in America to get an mRNA injection three days after Pfizer concluded that it was a factor in the aborting of two babies.

The first tranche of the Moderna papers came out in July, due to another successful lawsuit by hero/lawyer Aaron Siri. And we learned that Moderna, too, had been experimenting on destroying the fertility cycles of female mammals.

So the goal  at least one primary goal  of all of this madness and evil of the past three years, whatever brand you chose, was to ruin womens menses and to damage human reproduction at a global level. Team Pfizer or Team Moderna? A distinction without a difference.

And now the PR campaign for the new variant is on  predictably, as the advisory group for the FDA recommended in advance of their even existing, that future boosters for variants should be approved  and the AI that now rules journalism, is pushing out scary stories on schools that are sending kids home, on universities such as Rutgers that wont allow students back on campus unless they are injected with this new formulation with its lack of longterm double-blind safety data  on the return of masks. All of this is entirely connected to the 89% drop in manufacturing demand that Pfizer reported and the tanking of Modernas share values.[1] Why pause the gravy train? Dead babies be damned.

I also needed a brief rest because I had to process what Dr James Thorp told me: doctors who treat the most vulnerable population in the world  pregnant women and their unborn babies  were  are  coerced to lie by organizations that oversee these doctors, that were paid to lie.

Here is the video of the interview:

https://dailyclout.io/shocking-foia-results-11-million-to-bribe-ob-gyns-to-lie-to-moms-about-safety-of-mrna-vaccines/

I interviewed fetal-maternal medicine specialist Dr James Thorp recently; he has been one of the very few medical providers for pregnant women and babies, to have raised the alarm about massive damage to women and babies via the mRNA injection. The interview, in a transcript below that I have edited for clarity, is one of the most important exchanges of our time.

In this interview, Dr Thorp describes how he was unceremoniously if not injuriously fired by his health system employer  though he was among the most published of his colleagues. He described the results of a FOIA launched by his wife, attorney Maggie Thorp, and himself, that revealed $13 billion in funding to influencers to promote the mRNA injections, including surfacing a contract with a for-profit OB/GYN NGO that oversees tens of thousands of obstetricians and gynecologists on two continents. The contract that the Thorps FOIA disclosed, provides for the return of the money if medical organizations do not adhere to the safe and effective for pregnant women and new moms script presented to them by HHS. Dr Thorp independently confirms the WarRoom/DailyClouts findings now from three other independent sources: that placentas, fetuses and newborns are being damaged by the mRNA injection. All four sources confirm the same kinds of damage: fibrins, blood clots, small for dates restricted growth and weight of the placentas, and calcifications. Meaning that babies of vaccinated moms in utero may not be getting enough food, and they may lack the room to grow normally.

Dr Thorp ends with the damning but unforgettable conclusion that every OB/GYN should have known in advance that this injection would cause massive damage to women and babies, because inflammation has been known to OB/GYNs for decades to be catastrophic to pregnancy.

Please read, and widely share, this interview that discloses an existential threat to the future of humanity:

Dr. Naomi Wolf:

Hey everyone. Its Dr. Naomi Wolf. Im here with one of my personal heroes, Dr. James Thorp. Welcome Dr. Thorp.

Dr James Thorp:

Thank you, Dr. Wolf. Its an honor and a privilege to work with you.

Dr. Wolf:

Thank you. Dr. Thorp is a distinguished, board-certified obstetrician gynecologist and maternal-fetal medicine physician. He has over 44 years of obstetrical experience while serving as a very busy clinician his whole career. Hes also been very active in clinical research. This just goes to show that the people who are the bravest dissidents are some of the most credentialed.

Dr. Thorp has 224 publications, including 28 on COVID 19. He has seen over 27,500 high risk pregnancies in the last 4.5 years, served as a reviewer for major medical journals, and served on the board of directors for the Society of Maternal Fetal Medicine for three years. He also served as an examiner for the American Board of OB/GYN. He served in the US Air Force. Thank you for your service.

Dr. Thorp testified in the US Senate under the Bush Administration in 2003 on treating the fetus with in-utero therapies. He testified in the Senate more recently with Senator Ron Johnson and others. Dr. Thorpe has focused his research efforts on the Covid 19 pandemic and published over 32 scientific publications, and a book documenting the dangers of the mRNA vaccine to women of reproductive age and to pregnancy.

Dr. Thorp, given all the credentials that Ive just shared, theres no way anyone can call you a marginal person in the world of maternal-fetal medicine. Youre a peer reviewer. Youve overseen thousands of high-risk pregnancies. Youve also been way out front as the first obstetrician-gynecologist to raise an alarm about the harms to women and babies from the mRNA vaccines. Youve been relentless.

Also, youve been in the news recently for having been punished for your courage and your accuracy. Please share with us what the latest is.

Dr Thorp:

Sure. I was recently fired. All of the patients in my prior service area were under the Sisters of St. Marys Health System, one of the largest Catholic health systems in the country. Theyre based in St. Louis, as well as in service areas in five different states. I worked in two different states for them: Missouri and Illinois. What I want to say to your listeners and to my former patients  to all patients globally  is this: the most important question you need to ask your nurse or your doctor, whether its in a hospital or in an office, is: Nurse, Doctor, are you willing to lose your job to save my life?

And they must answer that. Because Im telling you that 95% of the physicians and nurses are captured by their paycheck.

What happened at S S M Health? I was a model physician there, as described by the CEO who fired me. I got a call from Mr. Kevin Elledge, a CEO at SSM. (NW: SSMs motto is: Through our exceptional health care services, we reveal the healing presence of God.)

He scheduled a call with me, allegedly just to meet me. I was very suspicious of this. So, of course, I had an attorney. I took copious notes. The conversation was on June 29th at 1:05 pm.

The conversation lasted 45 minutes. For 30 minutes, Mr. Elledge honored me: called me a model physician for the system, didnt quite understand why they were having to fire me, except they were having financial difficulties. But multiple sources in the system tell me that I was the number one money producer for the system in the department.

Several have told me that Im the number one researcher and publisher in the department and have published more than most of the rest of the department combined.

[Mr Elledge] honored me as being of unparalleled ethical, moral, and intellectual integrity. These are words that that he used. And after 30 minutes of this, he said, We need to terminate you. And were invoking the no cause termination, which is in your original contract. So well give you 120 days. You can continue to work and wind down your practice, but you need to take this large sum of money and sign the documents that Im going to send you.

I didnt even see the documents. I said, Obviously I want you to continue your mission. I dont want your money. I dont need your money, so please just keep it and try to make ends meet and try to take care of my patients as best you can. 

He got progressively threatened as he kept trying to force me to sign that document, which he hadnt even sent me yet. I was very kind and respectful to him and just said, No, Im not [signing it]. I dont want your money. I dont need the money.

He said, Just look at it. You have the option of working for another 120 days. That conversation ended at 1:57 PM.

He sent out an email to the entire system firing me, saying, Dr. Thorp is, effective, immediately, not seeing patients.

Which is really a slam. And very injurious. Its libel, because that [implies] that Im a horrible person  that I did something horrible to one of my patients or to one of the staff, and everybody knows thats not the case.

Were flabbergasted. And Im locked out of the system. And thats behind me.

You know as a woman of faith, that when Yahweh closes one door, hes got much bigger plans for you.

[In terms of SSM], I think they mean well, but I think theyre captured by the system. The people up there love me. I dont think that it was their decision. In my opinion, somebody came in,  from the swamp in DC or from one of the medical boards or one of the organizations that Ive been attacking  and said, Thorps got to go. Hes getting too loud.

Dr. Wolf:

I may be cynical, but Im hearing that that call began in a friendly and flattering way, because the goal of the institution was to get you to sign a non-disclosure agreement, which Im guessing is the unseen document that they never bothered to send you because you said you wouldnt accept it.

Dr Thorp:

They ended up sending it to me. My wifes an attorney. Maggie [Thorp] looked at it, and shes never seen such an extensive non-disclosure agreement. it went not only to the effect of non-disparagement, but [also stated that] I wouldve been responsible for any other independent source  like you, or somebody on Twitter  that was disparaging them for what they did, and [it would have] held me responsible for that.

Dr. Wolf:

So, thank God for Maggie Thorp. This is just one more piece in the puzzle of trying to criminalize the speech of people like you and me, or to entangle us in lawfare if we tell people the truth. The other piece of this story that I find super concerning is that they were trying to buy your silence.

You dont have to disparage your former employers, but I will. As a woman and as a mom, Im just thinking of all the women who were your patients who suddenly got an email saying their doctor is gone, or who were informed by whoever took your place, that their doctor is gone.

If you have any patients who are pregnant, it would be incredibly concerning to be left in the middle of ones pregnancy without an obstetrician. I do agree with you that its libelous or defamatory that this email went out, because it does appear to smear your reputation. Dr Peter McCullough has also had to fight legal battles. Dr Sherri Tenpennys license was suspended. One of our Pfizer documents analysis volunteers, Dr Jeyanthi Kunadhasan in Australia, was also threatened by a licensing board there. Doctors who tell the public the truth are being menaced with lawfare or threats of losing their licenses.

Dr Thorp:

Dr Renata Moon was just fired too. Dr. Moon had an academic appointment and was a very valuable employee. What they did to her was worse. They drummed up totally fraudulent allegations and fired her for cause. They smeared her.[2]

Many if not most of the hospitals are doing that. Dr. Rennie Moon is an incredible pediatrician and has testified in the Senate with me and with Dr. McCullough and many others. She has a very prominent voice. Pediatrics and obstetrics and gynecology are the most brainwashed, targeted groups of all of medicine.

Dr. Wolf:

Let me go to why youre such a threat. You were early on confirming what we [the WarRoom/DailyClout Pfizer Documents Research Volunteers] were also finding at the same time: damage to womens reproductive systems, reproductive cycles, damage to babies in utero, and damage to the placenta via the mRNA injections.

I want you to talk about the calcified placentas that you were seeing.[3] Is there anything new or different in the kinds of pregnancies, you were seeing, anything new regarding placentas or the babies themselves, any change in outcomes regarding deaths of mothers in childbirth [which are up post-years of mrna vaccination by 30%, per CDC], that youve seen?[4]

Dr Thorp:

Youre a hundred percent right. This entire vaccine went after women. It went after womens health. for two reasons.

Number one: Every man and woman in medicine knows women make all the healthcare decisions for all members of the family. So that if they could capture the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and 60,000 obstetricians, and then they got all the women, they captured the population.

The second issue is more ominous if they can fraudulently  and make no doubt about it, this was fraud, right? Conspiracy, this was collusion  a RICO violation. The second reason that they targeted women is this: if they can prove that the vaccine is safe, effective, and necessary in the most vulnerable population, which is pregnant women, pre-borns and newborns by vertical transmission  then every other human being on earth needs to be vaccinated.

Number one, women make the healthcare decisions. Number two, if we can convince the world that its safe, effective, and necessary in pregnancy, theyve won the entire game for vaccinating the entire human population on the planet. And thats what they did.

Maggie [Thorp], as I mentioned, is an attorney. She has a keen eye for sniffing out fraud in larger corporations, which shes done in other industries successfully.

So, we launched a FOIA. We strongly suspected that this vaccine, just like I got done saying, was a fait accompli. It was always pre-planned. Prior to 2020, it was pre-planned to target women.

And we proved that this was the case.

We submitted an airtight Freedom of Information Act to HHS, the CDC, and the American College of OB/GYN, and ACOG.

ACOG and the American College of OB/GYN allege themselves to be the preeminent organization for women in the world. Nothing could be more opposite to the truth.

On February 28th, 2021, the Pfizer 5.3 0.6 post-marketing data was public. It was devastating. It was proven to be, according to Pfizer, the deadliest drug ever rolled out to the human public. Ive been saying that. And for two and a half years, not one person has challenged me. 1,223 dead within 10 weeks, and then horrible obstetrical data.

Mark Weber, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs/Human Services at U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, tried to hide that damning data for 75 years. What did he do? Rolled out a $13 billion PSYOPs campaign to the entire United States of America, about 300 major organizations in influencers, including synagogues and churches, and many others, to convince the United States and the entire world that this deadly shot was safe, effective, and necessary in the most vulnerable population, pregnant women.[5]

They rolled that $13 billion out while suppressing the damning data from Pfizer.

Those who were founding members, like the American College of OBGYN, signed a contract, Naomi.

Weve proven that [from] 1400 pages. They redacted over 50%, but they entered a contract that I have termed, the covenant of death [the phrase is from Isaiah 28]. I have started a Substack, on this covenant of death between HHS and CDC, and the American College of OB/GYN along with probably all the other influencers.

[NW: Isaiah 28:14 reads:

Therefore hear the word of the Lord, you scoffers

who rule this people in Jerusalem.

15 You boast, We have entered into a covenant with death,

with the realm of the dead we have made an agreement.

[]

for we have made a lie our refuge

and falsehood[b] our hiding place.]

Whats in this covenant of death? This is hideous. This is horrifying. This is exactly what you have seen, Dr. Naomi, and what Ive seen and what we know to be true.

They took well over $11 million; they signed the covenant with death, and theyre not allowed to deviate one iota from the lethal narrative of HHS. If they do, they will be liable for paying back every single penny, which theyve already pocketed. So, thats why the American College of OB/GYN, the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology, and the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine, to this day, are the evil organizations that perpetrated this crime on the world. And I will not back down from attacking them because we have the proof.

Ive been saying this for over a year. And if that were not true, Id be involved multiple lawsuits.

Dr. Wolf:

if I understood what you just said, its a huge story.

You and your wife submitted a Freedom of Information Act request to HHS, and you have, as a result, secured a lengthy contract between HHS and influencers, including the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology. Do I have those facts correct?

Dr Thorp:

Not quite. Almost. We have 1400 pages of communications between the federal government and the American College of OBGYN, that oversees over 60,000 obstetrician gynecologists on two different continents.

Dr. Wolf:

This is a huge story. So how do you know there are 300 influencers that HHS has also funded? Are they mentioned in this communication?

Dr Thorp:

Yes, we have. Theyre all mentioned. And thats well known. Assistant Deputy Secretary, Mark Weber of HHS was very proud of this newly endowed COVID 19 Community Corps.

Dr. Wolf:

Im aware that influences were funded, but it sounds like you and your wife got the receipts in certain ways and, and these emails are unbelievably important. Now, youve, you are also saying that $11 million went from the federal government, from HHS to this third party NGO, a for-profit, non-government organization, which oversees tens of thousands of obstetricians and gynecologists on two continents. Do I have that correct?

Dr Thorp:

Thats correct.

Dr Wolf:

So presumably, if they dont stick to HH ss script about the vaccine, they must pay back the money that they took. Is that correct?

Dr Thorp:

Absolutely correct. It is HHS and CDC.

Dr. Wolf:

Our volunteers found that a terrifying report went out on April 10th, 2021, showing damage in utero from transplacental or maternal exposure to vaccine, Pfizers words, including death. There are also convulsions and fevers and swelling of babies who are nursing vaccinated moms.[6] This report went to CDC, and three days later, Dr. Walensky gave a White House press conference telling the women of America, that especially if they were pregnant, they should take the vaccine; that it was safe and effective, that there was no bad time. Before you have your baby, during your pregnancy, after having your baby, there is no bad time to take the vaccine.

So CDC was paying obstetricians to echo this script, knowing that this injection was killing babies in utero, and poisoning them through breast milk? Is that the bottom line?

Dr Thorp:

Thats absolutely a hundred percent. Weve arrived at the identical conclusions, and you know, Maggie and I have published extensively on America out Loud. There are a dozen articles, and theyre extraordinarily well referenced. We have everything that you said. It is a hundred percent true, and everything that you found from your side that I wasnt aware of it, it is absolutely a hundred percent true. Weve documented it all.

We have clips, we have interviews; we have the Walensky interview, we have the floating lie that was put out by the powers that be in our government. And, and the American College of OBGYN starting out in late 2020 [saying], Its never going to be mandated in pregnancy. And then it slowly morphs from that into the April 2021 interview where [she] says, okay, it is now indicated. And we were mandating it. And by July, ACOG said, yes, were strongly recommending it.

Dr. Naomi Wolf:

Thats unbelievable. I will move heaven and earth to get proper media attention on this story that you and Maggie Thorp have broken.

Let me just play this out to the end. This means that to this day, when a pregnant woman asks her obstetrician, her gynecologist, Do you recommend that I take this [mRNA] vaccine or not? That doctor has to say, Yes, its recommended? Yes, ACOG recommends it? Or else they are in violation in some way of some contractual commitment that ACOG has made, and they must pay back money or be penalized in some ways? Is that right?

Dr Thorp:

Thats, thats exactly right. And, and the system will work earnestly to fire that physician if they perpetrate that truth.

Dr. Naomi Wolf:

So, you are saying that obstetricians and gynecologists, to this day, at least in the United States, cannot give their pregnant patients informed consent about what we now know to be the real significant risks of taking the URA injection during pregnancy. Is that correct?

Dr Thorp:

Absolutely. A hundred percent correct. And, and just think about it, the Mark Weber infiltrated the personal most personal relationships that a woman has. :

Going into the examination room, during the most important part of her life  shes pregnant  she trusts her physician. With her obstetrician, whether male or female, theres a very important trust. Mark Weber and HHS egregiously violated that trust, in the most sensitive exam ever in a womans life.

Dr. Wolf:

So theoretically  even though now people are fleeing the mRNA injection, as we now know from the Q1 and Q 2 economic reports of both Pfizer and Moderna  pregnant women to this day probably are being urged to take the mRNA vaccine that everyone else is racing away from. And theyre doing it because they trust their obstetricians and their gynecologists.

We need to bring every womans attention to this story that every woman in America  in all those other countries where this is happening. Every pregnant woman is in a state of acute jeopardy as a result of what you and Mrs. Thorp have found. What were you seeing in your practice regarding harms to women and to the fetus from this injection?

Dr Thorp:

In my vast clinical experience, I have seen massive disruption of normal menstruation patterns, which you well know. And that did not occur until after the rollout of the vaccine. I have seen a marked increase in infertility, male and female.

If the [couple] do conceive, then theres a substantial risk of miscarriage. And I stand by what we [both] have interpreted and what I have published, theres an 81% risk of miscarriage from Pfizers own data. There is an increase in malformations of all organ systems, a substantial increase in fetal death, substantial increase in severe early onset preeclampsia, in preterm premature membrane rupture, an increase in spontaneous preterm labor, an increase in indicated preterm delivery due to vaccine complications. In trying to prevent a death in utero, we are seeing an increase in cardiac anomalies, cardiac malformations, and in the early death of the fetus. I am also seeing an increase in premature delivery and death of the newborns. Therte is a massive increase in newborns going to the neonatal intensive care unit. There are substantial abnormalities of the placenta.

Dr. Naomi Wolf:

Stunning, terrifying. Dr. Thorp is, in his interpretation of over 80% spontaneous abortions and miscarriages in the Pfizer documents independently finding what our WarRoom/DailyClout Pfizer Documents Research Volunteers also found in the Pfizer documents. And his description of compromised placentas, stillbirth, premature labor, and babies with malformations is independently confirmed by, and I stress this as a journalist, two midwives in two separate practices, whom we at DailyClout interviewed. Dr Thorps account also confirms a new report out by DailyClouts COO Amy Kelly, showing placental problems in a pathology report of a vaccinated mother. So now we have four independent sources confirming the same serious problems for babies and moms.

Dr Thorp:

Everybody should have known I knew, before the vaccine ever rolled out: that it was going to be damaging. Thats because it is a proven principle of obstetrics in gynecology and maternal-fetal medicine, published by the world expert Roberto Romero, on the horrible adverse effects of inflammation on pregnancy. Its devastating.

So thats known to every OB/GYN. Every OB/GYN has had that drummed into their teaching for the last several decades.

So of course, [the inflammation caused by the mRNA vaccines] is going to cause damage: miscarriage and malformations and chromosome malformations. Its proven: its the most inflammatory substance ever used in a human being.

Dr. Wolf:

Its been known for 10 years at least that lipid nanoparticles biodistribute to every organ in the human body, and that they disrupt human reproductive capacity.

So someday, I hope that the people who formulated this injection with lipid nanoparticles will answer before Congress, if not before a jury of their peers, the question: Why did you put this in this injection if you knew it would destroy human reproductive capacity?

Dr. Thorp, thank God, you and your few but brave colleagues who care enough about women and babies to save lives by telling the truth. 

So there you are. We are hearing reports weekly of shrunken placentas; of babies born with breathing impairments exactly as Reort 69 showed Pfizer knew babies would be born; of placentas with calcifications; of placentas with blood clots; of babies with bizarre and appalling malformations.

Honestly, what can I say at this point except may God save us; and please tell childbearing age women everything you now know.

And please, please support the handful of brave doctors and scientists who alone will find preventions and treatments for the damage from the covenant of death  if preventions and treatments can be had.

Poor suffering humanity. Poor blameless babies.

Read more at: StateOfTheNation.co
ABSURD: DOJ sues Elon Musks SpaceX for refusing to hire ILLEGALS

The Department of Justice (DOJ) recently sued SpaceX over employment discrimination , accusing the company helmed by Elon Musk of refusing to hire illegal aliens.

In the Aug. 24 complaint, the DOJ alleged that the California-based SpaceX discouraged refugees and asylum seekers from applying to open positions and refused to hire those that did. The company's hiring practices that were allegedly detrimental to asylum seekers and refugees "were routine, widespread and longstanding," it added.

SpaceX job postings indicated that only U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents could apply for openings. The complaint claimed that between 2018 and 2022, the company "wrongly claimed" export control laws limited its hiring to the two categories. "Export control laws and regulations do not prohibit or restrict employers from hiring asylees and refugees; those laws treat asylees and refugees just like U.S. citizens," the lawsuit argued.

According to CNBC, the Justice Department has been investigating SpaceX since June 2020. Its probe began when the DOJ's Immigrant and Employee Rights Section received a complaint of employment discrimination

Kristen Clarke, assistant attorney general of the DOJ's Civil Rights Division, said in a statement: "Our investigation found that SpaceX failed to fairly consider or hire asylees and refugees because of their citizenship status and imposed what amounted to a ban on their hire regardless of their qualification, in violation of federal law."

She added that the Justice Department's investigation found that "SpaceX recruiters and high-level officials took actions that actively discouraged asylees and refugees from seeking work opportunities at the company." SpaceX did not immediately respond to a request for comment sent by CNBC.

The complaint cited a 2020 tweet from the SpaceX CEO as evidence, which stated that U.S. law "requires at least a green card" to be hired at SpaceX since rockets are "advanced weapons and technology." During a 2016 conference, Musk said a normal work visa wouldn't be sufficient to work at SpaceX unless the defense secretary or secretary of state grants it "special permission."

SpaceX cites national security as grounds for alleged "discrimination"

However, the company's alleged discrimination appears to be grounded in a national security law  particularly the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). A September 2016 piece in Popular Mechanics expounded on this matter.

It recounted Musk's appearance during the 67th International Astronautical Congress in Mexico held at the time. A Russian woman in the audience asked him about hiring people outside the United States. In response, the SpaceX CEO said that while he would like to bring international talent, American laws prevent him from doing so.

The piece then expounded on ITAR, a "bedrock of national security" guaranteeing that Musk can only go for homegrown talent.

"The basics of these regulations are pretty simple: Information about military technology is to be limited to citizens and U.S.-based companies. ITAR regulates possible dual-use technology like rocket launches and makes working at space launch companies off-limits to non-U.S. citizens," the piece elaborated.

"When sensitive information is being bandied about, the government wants to keep companies inside the U.S. where they can be better vetted. In an age of byzantine networks of contractors and subcontractors, it seems like a prudent measure to ensure the U.S. doesn't hire, say, a Chinese firm that may be interested in an advanced warplane design." (Related: An even greater danger: China claims to have launched world's first 6G satellite.)

True enough, the U.S. Department of State can grant an exemption to ITAR rules. Companies that violate the rules, however, are subject to hefty fines. It can also harm firms trying to win government contracts in the future.

The importance of ITAR in national security flies over the head of the DOJ under the Biden administration. But this isn't surprising at all, given that the current regime favors illegals and cares little about national security.

Visit ElonMuskWatch.com for more stories about SpaceX.

Watch this Russia Today report about SpaceX launching 46 satellites into low Earth orbit.

This video is from the High Hopes channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

Space war brewing? Russia threatens to destroy Starlink satellites.

SpaceX dumps Ukraine; prevents weaponization of satellite communications system.

Ukrainian intelligence claims Russian hackers are targeting Elon Musk's Starlink network.

Sources include:

Semafor.com

CNBC.com

BusinessInsider.com

PopularMechanics.com

Brighteon.com
Domestic crisis may force China to invade Taiwan, lawmaker warns

Rep. Mike Gallagher (R-Wis.), chairman of the House China Committee, has warned that the deepening economic crisis in China might hasten the Beijing regime's intentions of invading Taiwan.

China's property sector, a driving force behind the world's second-largest economy, is plunging into a deepening crisis. Major players in this sector are defaulting on payments to lenders, burdened by massive debt. Add the millions of unemployed Chinese youth whose lives are on hold, Gallagher said China is facing an "unprecedented democratic challenge."

There's a growing risk that China's ruling communist party, under the leadership of Xi Jinping, could adopt a more aggressive stance soon, Gallagher told the Epoch Times.

"Perhaps, he expedites his timeline for taking Taiwan by force, partly to divert attention from internal economic problems, and partly because there might not be a better opportunity in the next five years for him," Gallagher said.

"This is why I believe we're in the most critical phase for a potential kinetic conflict with China over Taiwan."

The Chinese Communist Party (CCP) has never renounced its intention to claim Taiwan, whether by force or other means. Tensions have escalated over the past few years, with Chinese warplanes frequently buzzing the Taiwan Strait.

This escalated even further after a significant number of warplanes were detected on August 19 following the Taiwanese vice president's visit to the United States. (Related: Taiwan to buy 400 American anti-ship missiles as China continues to threaten the island nation.)

Gallagher emphasized that letting Taiwan fall under Beijing's control would be far more disastrous for the global economy than any short-term economic turmoil that the CCP might endure.

Taiwan's role as a "semiconductor superpower" that underpins sensitive U.S. military technology is pivotal. "If the CCP were to seize Taiwan, they could effectively hold the world hostage economically," Gallagher noted.

The geographic significance of Taiwan cannot be ignored. It serves as a cornerstone within a network of U.S. allies and partners, playing a crucial role in safeguarding international norms of navigation freedom across the Indo-Pacific.

These norms are upheld by the U.S.-led security alliance rooted in democratic values.

China invasion of Taiwan to cause heavy toll on global economy

A successful invasion of Taiwan would empower Beijing to amplify its economic coercion.

Given limited U.S. assistance, Japan and the Philippines, with their proximity to Taiwan, would become more susceptible to the regime's threats, Gallagher noted. He stressed the importance of maintaining economic pressure on China and reinforcing a military deterrent. He expressed concerns that the U.S. is "ill-prepared" for a potential conflict.

The lawmaker highlighted the need to urgently replenish weapon stockpiles, which have reached "dangerously low" levels due to the continuous military aid being provided by the U.S. to Ukraine. This situation could hamper the defense of Taiwan should a conflict arise.

He also emphasized the necessity of preventing Xi from believing that a successful invasion of Taiwan is plausible. "We must go to great lengths to ensure that Xi Jinping never wakes up thinking he can actually pull off a Taiwan invasion," Gallagher said.

In the event China moves against Taiwan, the war would cause a colossal $3 trillion toll on the global economy  nearly equal to Britain's annual output, a report published by the Atlantic Council and Rhodium Group noted.

The U.S. military believes that an invasion of Taiwan would prove to be extremely difficult for the Chinese military. It would likely invite intervention from other militaries, strain the Chinese Peoples Liberation Army, and create political and military risks for the Chinese leader and the ruling CCP.

Learn more about conflicts around the world at WWIII.news.

Watch this video as an American-Chinese dissident warns that social and economic unrest is pushing China to invade Taiwan.

This video is from the Worldview Report channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

Taiwan asserts its right to defend itself and to COUNTER-ATTACK if China invades.

Biden commits to sending American troops if China invades Taiwan.

China preparing to launch an invasion of Taiwan, warns Chinese journalist.

Sources include:

TheEpochTimes.com

BusinessInsider.com

Brighteon.com
Pavilion III is down three bottles of wine.

University of Virginia police are investigating a reported burglary from one of the colleges Lawn residences committed by an apparent oenophile.

Police said in a statement that officers responded to a residence at Pavilion III  sometimes called the Corinthian Pavilion for the ornate order of columns on its front  at 3:20 p.m. Saturday.

The exact time of the burglary is unknown, police said, but they believe it happened between Friday night and Saturday afternoon.

The occupant of one of our pavilions came upon his pavilion on Saturday afternoon and noted that someone had gained entry from the rear, UVa Police Chief Tim Longo told The Daily Progress.

Three bottles of wine were stolen from the pavilion, according to police. No weapons, injuries or threats were reported.

A pavilion residence is an atypical target for a burglar, according to Longo.

You dont typically see burglaries on the Lawn, Longo said. This case, it was an entry from the rear, so it would not have been obvious. Someone on the Lawn may not have seen the person enter.

A description of the suspect was not provided.

The investigation is still ongoing, according to Longo. An evidence technician was recruited to help authorities process the scene.

Hopefully the person responsible may have left some latent fingerprints that might help us identify them, Longo said.
In a fiery exchange during the first 2024 Republican presidential primary debate, the candidates on stage sparred over the issue of providing additional aid to Ukraine after the Biden administration requested an extra $24 billion in support for the war-torn country.

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy, currently polling second and third behind former President Donald Trump, took center stage due to their firm positions. The discussion quickly escalated into a clash of viewpoints.

Governor DeSantis emphasized the need for European nations to shoulder a greater share of the responsibility in supporting Ukraine. He argued that American assistance should be conditional upon European allies pulling their weight in the conflict.

Entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy, however, took a more drastic stance by openly rejecting the idea of providing additional aid to Ukraine. (Related: Costly war: American aid to Ukraine about to hit $65 billion.)

"I would not, and I think that this is disastrous that we are protecting against an invasion across somebody else's border when we should use those same military resources to prevent the invasion of our own southern border here in the United States of America," Ramaswamy said. He framed the situation as prioritizing American interests over international engagements.

Ramaswamy's stance on aiding Ukraine sparked a heated back-and-forth with former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie. The entrepreneur said he finds it "offensive" that "professional politicians on the stage" have traveled to Ukraine and not to locations in their own country.

"All right. Look, I did go to Ukraine. And I went to Ukraine because I wanted to see for myself what Vladimir Putin's army was doing to the free Ukrainian people," Christie explained. Christie countered Ramaswamy's argument by emphasizing the need to confront international threats while maintaining a strong stance on domestic issues.

Former Vice President Mike Pence weighed in by rejecting the notion that addressing global challenges should come at the expense of solving domestic problems. He invoked the Reagan Doctrine, which supported aiding nations willing to stand against communism while advocating for a firm stance against Russian aggression to prevent future conflicts.

The debate continued to escalate as Ramaswamy and others highlighted their concerns about the Russia-China alliance, asserting that this alliance poses a significant threat to the United States. They stressed the importance of recognizing and addressing this growing partnership.

Former South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley, a former U.S. ambassador to the United Nations, emphasized the moral responsibility of the American president in distinguishing between right and wrong. She stressed that Ukraine plays a crucial role as a frontline defense against Russia and warned of the potential for a wider conflict if Russia were to succeed in its ambitions.

"Putin has said, 'Once Russia takes Ukraine, Poland and the Baltics are next.' That's a World War. We're trying to prevent war," she said.

DeSantis closed the exchange by reiterating the importance of defending American citizens and their interests. He criticized the Biden administration's approach, suggesting that while he wouldn't send troops to Ukraine, he would declare the situation at the southern border a national emergency. He also pledged to use force against drug traffickers and secure the border.

CNN poll: Majority of Americans oppose further military aid to Ukraine

In relation to the GOP presidential debate, a recent CNN/SSRS poll released this month found that most Americans are opposed to sending more aid to Ukraine. The poll indicates a notable shift in public opinion.

Currently, 55 percent of U.S. voters believe that Congress should refrain from sending additional aid to Ukraine, while 45 percent support allocating more funding. This stands in contrast to the early days of the conflict, when 62 percent of respondents believed that Americans should play a more active role in assisting the country.

On whether the United States has provided sufficient aid to Ukraine, 51 percent of respondents feel that America's efforts have been adequate, while 48 percent believe that more assistance should be extended.

One of the most significant findings of the survey pertains to the perceived impact of the Ukraine-Russia conflict on national security. While 56 percent still believe that the conflict threatens national security, this number has decreased from 72 percent, as indicated by a poll conducted in February 2022.

Meanwhile, nearly 80 percent of those surveyed expressed apprehension about the seemingly endless nature of the war. This spans across political affiliations as 82 percent of Democrats, 75 percent of independents and 73 percent of Republicans share this sentiment.

The survey also reveals worries about the potential ripple effects of the conflict. Around 65 percent of participants fear the war in Ukraine could increase threats to democracy in other parts of the world, while 64 percent believe it could pave the way for Russian attacks in other regions. Additionally, approximately 59 percent of respondents expressed concerns that the conflict might escalate into a larger European war.

Data also indicates that 53 percent of respondents disapprove of Biden's approach to the war in Ukraine. Furthermore, 56 percent expressed dissatisfaction with his management of relations with Russia, and 57 percent did not favor how he navigated the complex relationship with China.
Half of trans-identifying biological male inmates in Wisconsin have been convicted of sex crimes  so why are they allowed to move to womens prisons?

More than half of the male inmates in Wisconsin who identify as transgender women have been convicted of sex crimes in the past, according to the Heritage Foundations Oversight Project, and some are seeking transfers to female prisons.

This unsettling statistic came to light thanks to a review of Wisconsin Department of Corrections records carried out by the group with help from a public records request.

The review revealed that 81 out of the 161 biological males who identify themselves as transgender in Wisconsin prisons have been convicted of at least one count of sexual abuse or sexual assault. This means they have committed crimes such as rape, incest, sexual intercourse with a child, sexual intercourse without consent, sexual exploitation of a child, enticing a child, or indecent behavior with a child, among other offenses.

Unfortunately, many of these prisoners are using their self-proclaimed transgender status to request transfer to a womens prison, and many fear they could be doing this to get closer to women so they can abuse them.

One high-profile case in the state involves Mark Campbell, a biological male who started claiming to be a woman six years into his prison sentence and now uses the name Nicole Campbell. This man admitted to raping his own daughter and is serving a 34-year-sentence for the horrifying act. In December 2020, a federal judge ruled that the rapist could undergo gender transition surgery funded by taxpayers and be moved into a womens prison while waiting for his surgery to take place.

U.S. District Judge James Peterson ruled that the surgery was his constitutional right, claiming "an inmate's criminal history is irrelevant to whether she has a right to necessary medical treatment."

The Daily Signal reached out to the Wisconsin Department of Corrections to find out how many biological men they currently house in female prisons, but they would not answer their questions, nor would they address Campbells status.

Male inmates are claiming to be transgender throughout the U.S. so they can move to womens prisons

Since the Transgender Respect, Agency and Dignity Act went into effect in California in 2022, at least 47 biological men have been transferred to women's prisons, putting the women there at serious risk. Under the Act, men only need to self-identify as women to ask for a transfer; they do not need to get an operation or take hormones, and most still have male genitalia. More than a third of the men who sought transfer to womens prisons under the Act based on their self-proclaimed gender identity were registered sex offenders and more than a quarter were convicted of sex offenses, which is a much higher percentage than that seen in the overall prison population.

In New York, a biological man who claimed to be a female was convicted of raping a female inmate in the womens part of the Rikers Island jail and was sentenced to seven more years in prison. And in New Jersey, a transgender prisoner impregnated two female inmates, prompting the state to return him to a male-only facility. In Ohio, an investigation was launched into the rape of a female prisoner there by a transgender inmate, while an Illinois trans convict was accused of raping several female inmates in a female prison.

The director of the Oversight Project, Mike Howell, spoke out against the practice of placing men in womens prisons based solely on their claim that they now identify as women.

He said: Men belong with men and men only in prison. Putting sex offender men claiming to be women in cells with women is another reason the world laughs at America's moral decline. Prison is for punishment, not degenerate sexual behavior."

Sources for this article include:

ThePostMillennial.com

FreeBeacon.com
Pfizer CEO Albert Bourla now HIGHEST PAID pharma executive in the world

Pfizer CEO Albert Bourla is now the highest-paid pharmaceutical executive globally , a report has found.

Citing information from In Vivo, independent journalist Jordan Schachtel of the Dossier shared this discovery in an Aug. 24 piece. The Greek-born drug bigwig recorded a salary of $33 million in 2022. Bourla has earned almost $100 million in compensation since 2019, he added.

Aside from compensation, Bourla has also earned tens of millions through the sale of Pfizer stock. Schachtel noted that at the end of 2022, the Pfizer CEO sold 222,328 shares of company stock to the tune of more than $6 million. Despite this, Bourla retains about 250,000 shares in the New York-based drug firm.

The independent journalist pointed out that Bourla collaborated with the governments of the U.S. and other countries "to loot billions of dollars from the treasuries of dozens of nations, striking deals in which Pfizer provided a 'free vaccine' that redirected all of their costs on to taxpayers instead of Pfizer." Moreover, all of the profits earned from the Wuhan coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccines "went directly to Pfizer, allowing for the Pharma giant to publish record profits year after year."

According to Schachtel, Pfizer's profits from the COVID-19 pandemic mainly came from the sales of its mRNA vaccine and Paxlovid medication. "Without COVID-19, Pfizer would not have made any net income since 2019," he added. Its vaccine bankrolled by billions of dollars in taxpayer funds was supposed to address SARS-CoV-2 infection, but failed in its intended purpose and even caused serious reactions in the form of blood clots.

"Pfizer succeeded in bamboozling the masses by committing statistical malpractice and outright scamming," concluded Schachtel. "In further hyping the Pfizer shots, Bourla often engaged in fraudulent marketing practices, routinely falsely claiming the Pfizer mRNA shot was akin to a cure to the [Wuhan] coronavirus."

BioNTech, Moderna execs also took home huge earnings

Bourla is not the only drug executive that raked in windfall earnings during the height of COVID-19. Schachtel also noted that Moderna CEO Stephane Bancel also became a billionaire "thanks to his large equity stake in the company." According to In Vivo, Bancel receives almost $20 million in compensation annually.

Rhoda Wilson of the Daily Expose zoomed in on the Moderna CEO and other so-called "COVID billionaires" in an Aug. 16 piece. According to her, Bancel recorded a net worth of $4.3 billion in 2021. This increased to $4.6 billion the following year, before dropping slightly to $4.4 billion in 2023.

The Massachusetts-based vaccine maker was founded in 2010 and went public in December 2018. Wilson pointed out that Bancel, who became Moderna CEO in 2011, "owns roughly eight percent of the company."

She also discussed Dr. Ugur Sahin, the CEO of BioNTech that partnered with Pfizer to develop the mRNA COVID-19 vaccine. He recorded a net worth of $4 billion in 2021, during the height of the pandemic. It increased to $5.3 billion in 2022, before slightly decreasing at an estimated $5 billion in 2023.

Sahin and his wife Dr. Ozlem Tureci, also the company's chief medical officer, established BioNTech in 2008. The company went public 11 years later in 2019, with Sahin owning 17 percent as of writing.

"Sahin led BioNTech to start on a vaccine for the coronavirus in early 2020," she wrote. "It partnered with Pfizer in March 2020 and got approval in December [of the same year]."

Wilson concluded: "Some became household names due to the 'vaccines' they helped develop. Others got rich by making everything from personal protective equipment and diagnostic tests to antibody treatments and software that helps authorities schedule vaccination campaigns." (Related: Heads of vaccine makers Moderna, BioNTech included in list of COVID-19 billionaires.)

Visit BigPharmaNews.com for more stories about Pfizer, Moderna and other drug companies that greatly profited from COVID-19.

Watch Harrison Smith of InfoWars talking about anti-vaccine protesters in Israel confronting Albert Bourla.

This video is from the InfoWars channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

Coronavirus pandemic creates 9 new Big Pharma billionaires.

Harvard study: U.S. government actively props up Big Pharma's profiteering monopoly.

Records show that Fauci, Collins both profited from COVID with 58 NIH royalty payments worth $325M.

Bill Gates  after reaping huge profits selling BioNTech shares  trashes effectiveness of COVID vaccines.

Pfizer plans to hike price of covid jabs by 10,000% next year to fund other drugs; calls scamdemic a profit "franchise" designed to fuel company's "marketing machine."

Sources include:

GlobalResearch.ca

Dossier.today

Expose-News.com

Brighteon.com
Study: Paper and bamboo drinking straws have HIGHER concentrations of FOREVER CHEMICALS than plastic straws

A new study has found that paper and bamboo straws, often touted as "eco-friendly" alternatives, contain higher concentrations of so-called forever chemicals than plastic straws.

A group of researchers in Belgium reported this finding in a study published in Food Additives and Contaminants. The study authors from the University of Antwerp (UAntwerp) tested dozens of straws from supermarkets, retail stores and fast-food restaurants in the country. Of the 39 straws made of paper, bamboo, glass, stainless steel and plastic, 27 reportedly contained per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS)  albeit in low concentrations.

Eighteen out of the 20 paper straw brands tested contained PFAS, alongside four out of five bamboo straws. Three out of four plastic straws and two out of five glass straws tested positive for forever chemicals. Meanwhile, all five stainless steel straws were devoid of PFAS.

PFAS pertains to a family of synthetic chemicals used in consumer products due to their ability to resist stains, grease and water. They are frequently detected in food wrappers, cosmetics, carpets, furniture and textiles such as raincoats or workout clothes. The "forever chemicals" moniker comes from the fact that they linger almost permanently in air, water and soil.

Study author and UAntwerp environmental scientist Thimo Groffen said it remains unclear whether drinking straw manufacturers are intentionally adding PFAS as a waterproof coating. He also put forward the possibility of forever chemicals accidentally winding in paper straws during the production process. Moreover, there is also the possibility of contamination due to plants being grown in soil tainted with forever chemicals.

"This is just one very small source of additional exposure which could be easily avoided, but I don't expect straws themselves to be very harmful," said Groffen. "[However, if] it all adds up together with other exposure routes, the combination could cause health effects."

"Eco-friendly" paper and bamboo straws harm the environment more

Previous research in the U.S. has also detected PFAS in paper and other plant-based straws. Exposure to these forever chemicals is linked to low birth weight, high cholesterol, thyroid disease and an increased risk of kidney and liver cancers.

Some states have banned plastic straws from food establishments in the last five years  including California, Colorado, New York and Oregon. Food chains like Starbucks have phased out these straws in favor of paper versions. (Related: Taiwan jumps on-board the bandwagon to ban straws and other single-use plastics.)

Things are different at the federal level, however. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration allows the use of PFAS in certain food processing equipment as a grease-proofing agent in paper food packing. Meanwhile, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has proposed limits for PFAS in drinking water  but has not yet issued a final rule.

Keith Vorst of Iowa State University (IA State) pointed out that the UAntwerp researchers didn't test whether PFAS leaches from the straws into beverages or whether using a straw necessarily causes someone to ingest the chemicals. However, the director of IA State's Polymer and Food Protection Consortium pointed out that some of the straws examined exceeded the proposed EPA concentrations for water.

The study authors stated: "PFAS were found to be present in almost all types of straws, but primarily in those made from plant-based materials."

Paper and bamboo straws have risen in popularity as alternatives, given that plastic takes a long time to decompose. But the researchers noted that these plant-based straws are not necessarily a more sustainable alternative to plastic straws, "because they can be considered as an additional source of PFAS exposure in humans and the environment."

They instead recommend another alternative: "The most sustainable alternative seems to be stainless-steel straws, which can be reused, do not contain PFAS and can be fully recycled."

Visit Chemicals.news for more stories about PFAS.

Watch this video explaining how to use drinking straws for survival purposes.

This video is from the Daily Videos channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

Ketchup, mayo and other common staple foods tainted with toxic PFAS chemicals.

Study: "Forever chemicals" in popular cooking products increase risk of liver cancer.

The new UTOPIA of the deranged Left: Serve a plastic straw and go to JAIL in California.

California becoming a fast food police state: $1,000 fine for waiters who serve plastic straws with beverages.

Eight brands of butter wrappers found to contain high levels of "forever chemicals"  is your favorite brand on the list?

Sources include:

NBCNews.com

TandFOnline.com

Brighteon.com
Trumps menacing mug shot could elevate his 2024 presidential campaign which is already far ahead of other GOP candidates

Megan Garber, a staff writer for the Atlantic, warned in an opinion piece that former President Donald Trump's mug shot is actually increasing his popularity and could help propel him back into the White House in the 2024 elections.

Trump became the first president in the history of the United States to ever have his mug shot taken when he got booked on Thursday, August 24, at the Fulton County Jail in Georgia over 13 felony charges of racketeering and conspiracy related to his alleged attempts to overturn the results of the 2020 election. (Related: The photo that will win Trump the 2024 presidency.)

In her article, Garber wrote that mug shot photos are "supposed to be an exercise in humility." She wrote: "In the portrait  it is a portrait, in the end  Trump glares directly into the camera. He seethes. He glowers. He turns in a studied performance. Photos like this are typically exercises in enforced humility. Trump's is a display of ongoing power. He treats his mug shot as our menace."

Garber continued by pointing out that this event, which should have been "a show of accountability" instead was turned on its head when Trump made "an act of concession to him" when the former president did not look like how "typical" alleged criminals should look like when they get their mug shots taken.

"The typical mug shot  bestows its power on the people on the other end of the camera. The alleged criminal, in it, tends to be disheveled, displaced, small," wrote Garber. "But Trump, trailed by the news cameras that confer his ubiquity, found a way to turn the moment's historical meaning  a former president, mug-shotted  into one more opportunity for brand building."

Trump has turned his mug shot into a campaign symbol

Proving Garber's point, Trump himself helped spread the photo when, for the first time in over two years, the former president took to Twitter to post his photo along with the caption: "ELECTION INTERFERENCE" and "NEVER SURRENDER!"

In a matter of hours after the release of Trump's mug shot, it has also turned into a campaign symbol, with the photo immediately being sold printed on t-shirts, stickers, posters, mugs, shot glasses and even on bobblehead dolls.

"Mug shots have destroyed other political careers. For him, it has already become a campaign symbol," wrote Sarah Smith, the North America editor for BBC. "It is yet another example of how Mr. Trump continues to defy political gravity."

Trump's own Save America political action committee has already started selling mug shot t-shirts, beverage holders and coffee mugs. Trump's son, Donald Trump, Jr., is marketing mug shot t-shirts and posters. Proceeds from both sales are intended to pay for the former president's ongoing campaign.

This shows how successfully Trump has leveraged the ongoing criminal probes against him to rally support to his base, beginning several months ago with his first indictment in New York. Daily online donations to Trump's PACs see massive surges whenever he is indicted, one time nearly breaching the $4 million mark in one day following his arraignment in April.

Learn more about the political persecution of Trump at Trump.news.

Watch this episode of "Brighteon Broadcast News" as Mike Adams, the Health Ranger, discusses Trump's indictment and his defiance against tyranny.

This video is from the Health Ranger Report channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

The Resistance Chicks discuss "coincidences" between Trump indictments and Hunter Biden revelations  Brighteon.TV.

Georgia Trump indictments are desperate effort to destroy Biden's "most dangerous opponent"  Gingrich.

Trump 100% confident HE WILL WIN against Biden in the 2024 presidential elections.

Wayne Root: Now it's official. I know it, you know it. Everyone knows it. Trump's Georgia indictment is the final proof the 2020 election was stolen.

RIGGED: Trump indictment documents published online BEFORE the grand jury's official vote.

Sources include:

Breitbart.com

Reuters.com

TheAtlantic.com

BBC.com

Brighteon.com
More than 2,000 children from Lahaina public school system STILL MISSING after Maui wildfire

The Hawaii State Department of Education (HIDOE) has reported that 2,025 students from the Lahaina public school system remain unaccounted for following the devastating Maui wildfire.

As officials in Hawaii work to determine the identities of the over 100 people who died in the Maui wildfires, the community fears children will make up a large part of the death toll.

When the fast-moving wildfires broke out on August 8, many children were home from school because the dangerous winds of a hurricane off the coast of Hawaii forced school closures.

Jessica Sill, an elementary school teacher at Lahaina King Kamehameha III, told the Wall Street Journal that she fears some children were home alone the day of the fires.

"Our parents work one, two, three jobs just to get by and they cant afford to take a day off. Without school, there was nowhere for [kids] to go that day," she said.

But with no warning that fires near Lahaina were about to engulf the town, there was no time for people to conduct orderly evacuations to keep track of children and ensure they got to safety first.

Sill added that two of her former students lost a seven-year-old cousin, who was found alongside his family in a burned-out car. She also said that she's worried about the students who survived and how they'll be able to process the trauma of the tragedy.

Data from Hawaii authorities shows that at least 115 people died in the fire that totally consumed Lahaina. The number of deaths is expected to rise significantly, as authorities have only thoroughly searched around 38 percent of the disaster zone.

State Rep. Elle Cochran, a Democrat who represents West Maui, including Lahaina, said she expects the final death toll to be at least several hundred people.

Both public and private schools affected by the Maui disaster

According to HIDOE, of the 3,001 students initially enrolled across four schools in the Lahaina public school system, 538 have already re-enrolled in other public schools and another 438 have enrolled in the State Distance Learning Program.

This leaves 2,025 students unaccounted for. They have not re-enrolled in other public schools or opted for distance learning for the time being. State officials note that many may have moved out of state or enrolled in private schools. (Related: Over 2,400 kids are missing in Maui, but aren't included in the government's death toll.)

The four schools comprise two elementary, one intermediary and one high school. They have been closed due to extensive damage caused by the fire. One elementary school was damaged so severely that it is unlikely to reopen soon, while the others have suffered significant damage from winds, debris and soot.

Private schools in Maui are also impacted. Maui Preparatory Academy received about 1,000 new applications and reshuffled its campus to accommodate 110 new students, a 40 percent enrollment increase. Sacred Heart School, with about 200 students, was destroyed by the fire.

A report by HIDOE noted that the state government should "support affected students" and "assess and repair facilities" destroyed by the wildfire.

Watch this Fox report about the many missing individuals after the Lahaina disaster.

This video is from the Daily Videos channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

SHAMELESS: FEMA officials turning Maui visit into luxury holiday while Lahaina residents suffer.

Maui coverup: Where in the world are all the children?

Lawfare with Tom Renz: Biden FAILS to empathize with Maui wildfire victims by comparing disaster to kitchen fire  Brighteon.TV.

"Children were incinerated to ash:" Livid Hawaiians slam Biden for cracking jokes, lying about wife.

Hawaii resident: Biden is a "vile human being" for joking about Corvette when "there were children who were incinerated into ash."

Sources include:

GreatGameIndia.com

WSJ.com

EvieMagazine.com

Brighteon.com
ARSON is the new CLIMATE CHANGE: 79 people arrested for starting wildfires in Greece

The raging fires burning up Greece right now were started by arsonists, not climate change , theis reporting.

At least 79 people have been arrested for arson related to the "wildfires," which are anything but wild when people start them intentionally. The Greek government called the culprits "arsonist scum" before announcing that criminal activity is behind the devastation.

According to Civil Protection Minister Vassilis Kikilias, there have been several attempts by arsonists as of late to start new fires on Mount Parnitha, located to the northwest of Athens.

There are hundreds of fires blazing across Greece right now, and at least 20 people have been reported dead because of them.

"You are committing a crime against the country," Kikilias said in a televised emergency briefing about the fires. "Arsonist scum are setting fires that threaten forests, property and, most of all, human lives."

"You will not get away with it. We will find you. You will be held accountable."

(Related: Check out our earlier report about how the Maui fire was fueled by chemtrail aerosols and ammonium nitrate  meaning it was not a random wildfire.)

No, global warming is NOT responsible for fires caused by arsonists

While summer wildfires are a common occurrence in hot and dry Greece, there have been more fires as of late, which the left-wing propaganda machine says are a result of global warming and climate change.

BBC is among the left-wing media outlets that, despite these open admissions from the Greek government about arsonists being responsible for these fires, is instead blaming climate change for them.

According to Stefan Doerr, director of the Centre for Wildfire Research at Swansea University, the landscape in Greece and other areas is becoming more flammable because of hotter weather  or so he claims  and poor vegetation management.

The latter point is the same one former President Donald Trump talked about concerning the California wildfires when he said that "raking the forest" more would help to keep wildfires from getting out of control.

Government spokesman Pavlos Marinakis told the Greek public broadcaster ERT that there have actually been 140 wildfire-related arrests, 79 of which are directly related to arson.

That is a lot of people implicated in this ongoing disaster, which is clearly not the fault of eating meat or driving cars. Instead, it is the product of crime, as with most things that go wrong in life.

The vast majority of deaths linked to the fires are migrants from other countries, several of them children. The bodies of 19 people were found near the Evros region of northeastern Greece.

The 20th death was a shepherd who lost his life in the fires raging throughout the Boeotia region of the country.

Kikilias revealed that Greece is currently going through the worst ever summer fire seasons since the country's fire risk maps were first introduced in 2009. And again, these fires are the result of arson, not climate change.

On the island of Rhodes, wildfires that broke out there forced thousands of people to flee to other parts of the country.

"I hope I am wrong, but all these fires around the world pretty much started about the same time: Hawaii, Louisiana, and Greece," one commenter wrote about the dire situation the world currently faces.

"Watch for more to break out. I am getting a bad feeling that a certain group is behind these, and if that's the case there will be more. Also look out for other seemingly coordinated acts aimed to take peace away. This is important."

Is man-made climate change real or fake? Learn more at Climate.news.

Sources for this article include:

BBC.com

NaturalNews.com

FoxNews.com
Biden administration strikes a deal with ByteDance to gain total control over TikTok operations in America

The Biden administration allegedly negotiated with ByteDance, the parent company of TikTok, to gain direct power over its feature in exchange for the continuous operation of the Chinese-owned social media giant in the United States.

According to a 100-page confidential draft, the agreement would allow the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Department of Defense (DoD) to conduct unannounced inspections of TikTok's facilities, records, equipment and servers in the U.S.; block changes to their terms of service, moderation policies and privacy policies; veto the hiring of executives responsible for TikTok's U.S. Data Security; mandate audits, assessments and security reports on TikTok's U.S. functions; and stop TikTok's operations in the U.S. if needed.

Furthermore, the draft agreement outlines the establishment of independent investigative bodies to supervise the U.S. operations of TikTok, including third-party monitors, auditors, cybersecurity experts, and source code inspectors. It also proposes an executive security committee, independent of ByteDance, to make decisions related to national security matters.

This agreement relates to the investigation conducted by the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS) more than four years ago against the potential national security threats of TikTok. Meaning to say, this negotiation between ByteDance and the Biden administration is an attempt to stop the government from completely banning TikTok operations in the United States.

However, ByteDance strongly opposes the overall control of the U.S. government and its potential impact on the operation of the social media app. CFIUS, in response, acknowledges that there might be situations where contract vetoes are necessary, but they might not disclose the reasons to ByteDance.

The CFIUS stated the fact that the DOJ and DoD heavily rely on human intelligence like informants and sources to identify potential threats to national security. If, for instance, they receive information about a specific vendor or the potential collection of certain data by a foreign government, they might opt to veto the vendor or modify the data without disclosure to avoid compromising the tip.

TikTok ban would give the U.S. government unprecedented oversight power

In trying to prevent foreign interference, the initial agreement might give the U.S. government the same power that it fears the Chinese government might abuse.

"If this agreement would give the U.S. government the power to dictate what content TikTok can or cannot carry, or how it makes those decisions, that would raise serious concerns about the governments ability to censor or distort what people are saying or watching on TikTok," Patrick Toomey, deputy director of the ACLU's National Security Project, told Forbes in an interview.

TikTok, with over 150 million American users spending an average of 90 minutes per day on the platform, contributes to major influence over cultural discourse and commerce. Therefore, the government's potential influence over TikTok's content and decision-making could lead to censorship and manipulation of content based on their preferences.

In essence, the government could spy on its own citizens' activities on TikTok. This initial agreement adds a new layer of complexity to the ongoing debate over national security, privacy rights and the role of tech giants and the government in protecting national privacy and individual freedoms.

More related stories:

FBI admits collusion with CIA and NSA to spy on Americans.

Dont be fooled: the RESTRICT Act is nothing more than an Orwellian censorship grab in disguise.

Leaked Pentagon documents show how US intel networks spy on its own allies.

National File founder: Majority of media companies in America only exist to CONTROL and CENSOR news.

Orwellian RESTRICT Act gives government regime total control over cryptocurrency, e-commerce and AI.

Sources include:

ReclaimtheNet.org

Forbes.com
Study: Curcumin in turmeric STARVES CANCER CELLS to death

Over 4,500 published peer-reviewed studies have shown curcumin to prevent cancer progression through a variety of mechanisms  by reducing inflammation, preventing chemical stress from radiotherapy and chemotherapy, shutting down cancer-promoting pathways and interfering with the growth and development of malignant cells.

Most recently, a study has shown that curcumin starves cancer cells to death by restricting the ability of cancer cells to extract much-needed energy in the form of glucose in the blood. This mechanism is especially appealing for cancer prevention because it targets the vast majority of cancers.

Starving malignant cells of their energy supply is an ideal way of boosting the body's natural cancer resistance and helps eliminate cancer before a tumor is detected.

Here are some highlights from the most recent literature that confirm previous studies showing that curcumin has specific effects against breast, colorectal, liver, lung, prostate and stomach carcinomas and leukemia. (Related: Research explores the many health benefits of curcumin.)

Breast cancer

A study published in the journal Food Science and Human Wellness reported on curcumin's potent inhibitory effects on breast cancer  the most prevalent type of cancer among women worldwide.

Researchers indicated that at low maximal inhibitory concentration, curcumin can suppress the growth of breast cancer cells that express the hormone receptor ER and sensitizes cell lines to anti-cancer drugs.

Moreover, it can induce apoptosis, or cell death, in cell lines independent of hormone receptor expression.

In addition, curcumin inhibits the proliferation of breast cancer stem cells (BCSC)  an important factor that influences cancer recurrence. The inhibition of BCSC proliferation suppresses metastasis, or the spread of cancer to different parts of the body, and reattachment  ultimately limiting tumor formation.

Colorectal cancer

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common and reoccurring diseases, as well as one of the top causes of death worldwide. It is considered an ailment for old people, but it can also affect people under the age of 50.

A study published in Frontiers in Oncology reported that curcumin interrupts the cell cycle, as well as accelerates cell death, which can assist in inhibiting the spread of colorectal cancer and suppressing chemo-resistance. The activation of the cell death pathway is also another avenue by which curcumin performs its anticancer activities on colorectal cancer.

Curcumin also suppresses the growth of Helicobacter pylori strains taken from patients who are infected with gastrointestinal symptoms. Furthermore, treatment improvements in animals with inflammatory and hereditary colorectal cancer have been discovered.

A study published in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences has shown curcumin to promote the synthesis of proteins related to apoptotic processes and influence the pathways of inflammation-related programmed death.

Curcumin has also been found to trigger cell death by enhancing reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, inducing oxidative reactions and lysis, or the breakdown of mitochondrial membranes in colorectal cancer cells, resulting in reduced cell growth and increased apoptosis.

Liver cancer

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common primary liver cancer and is the third most common cause of death from cancer globally in recent years.

As indicated in a study published in the Journal of Hepatology, curcumin exhibited a variety of biological mechanisms, including cell cycle regulation, the induction of apoptosis and the inhibition of metastasis, oncogene (mutated gene that contributes to cancer development) expression and tumorigenesis (the formation of tumors). It has also been shown to reduce populations of liver cancer stem cells.

Lung cancer

A study published in the journal Pharmacological Research reported on curcumin's role in respiratory diseases, such as acute lung injury, asthma, chronic pulmonary disease (COPD), pulmonary fibrosis and lung cancer.

Despite decades of research and the recent development of novel therapeutic approaches, the five-year survival rate of lung cancer patients has remained an abysmal 10-15 percent. This is mainly due to the fact that patients often present with late-stage disease, according to a study published in the journal Carcinogenesis.

Results of the study published in the journal Biomedicine and Pharmacotherapy suggested that curcumin exerts a suppressive effect on tumor growth by acting as a modulator of multiple molecular targets.

Prostate cancer

According to the American Cancer Society, about one man in eight will be diagnosed with prostate cancer during his lifetime. It is the second leading cause of cancer death in American men, just behind lung cancer.

About one man in 41 will die of prostate cancer. Prostate cancer death rate has declined by about half from 1993 to 2013, most likely due to earlier detection and advances in treatment. Since then, however, the pace of decline has slowed, likely reflecting the rise in cancers being found at an advanced stage.

Curcumin has multiple actions against prostate cancer. It defends prostate cells against the dysfunctional proteins produced during cancer progression. It also slows invasion of nearby healthy tissue by cancer, which helps to keep the tumor at a lower grade (meaning it grows more slowly and has a better prognosis), as indicated in the study published in the Journal of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology.

Meanwhile, a study published in Cancer Science reported that curcumin can also reduce tumor-derived testosterone production in prostate cancer cells. This is a hidden source of male hormones that often contributes to treatment-resistant diseases. This development offers a welcome new approach to treating these challenging tumors.

Visit Turmeric.news for more stories about the anticancer properties of curcumin.

Watch this video about the use of turmeric, which is rich in curcumin, against cancer.

This video is from the Conners Clinic channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

Turmeric: One of the worlds most powerful superfoods.

Discover the superfood power of turmeric.

Curcumin is better than anti-inflammatory drug for rheumatoid arthritis.

Protect your heart with turmeric.

Sources include:

NaturalHealth365.com

BMCCancer.BioMedCentral.com

LifeExtension.com

ScienceDirect.com 1

FrontiersIn.org

MDPI.com

Journal-Of-Hepatology.eu

ScienceDirect.com 2

Academic.OUP.com

ScienceDirect.com 3

Cancer.org

OnlineLibrary.Wiley.com 1

OnlineLibrary.Wiley.com 2

Brighteon.com
Fired Ukrainian official speaks out about bribes and corruption committed by the Biden crime family

For the first time since 2019, Victor Shokin, the fired Ukrainian prosecutor who was investigating Joe Biden and his crime family for corruption before ultimately getting canned, is speaking out about what he knows  and about what many have long suspected about Biden family

According to Shokin, the Biden crime family was, in fact, taking bribes from Ukrainian sources while Joe was still vice president under Barack Hussein Obama. And when Shokin started investigating these crimes, the Biden crime family had him fired by threatening, via the Obama regime, to withhold $1 billion in U.S. aid.

Unless the Ukrainian government agreed to remove Shokin and stop his efforts to unearth the Biden family's egregious crimes, then the U.S. checkbook was to remain off limits to Ukraine.

"I do not want to deal in unproven facts," Shokin told Fox News in an exclusive interview. "But my firm personal conviction is that, yes, this was the case. They were being bribed."

(Related: Remember right after Russia's invasion of Ukraine back in early 2022 when Biden ordered unvaccinated Americans to stay there amid rising tensions with the Kremlin in order to keep everyone "safe" from the Wuhan coronavirus [COVID-19].)

Biden White House says Fox News is giving a "platform to lies" by airing Shokin interview

As a quick refresher, Shokin was leading an active and ongoing investigation into the Ukrainian energy firm Burisma at the time when he was suddenly fired. Mykola Zlochevsky, Burisma's owner, had previously hired drug addict Hunter Biden to sit on his company's board before granting his own company permits to drill for oil and gas in Ukraine.

Zlochevsky, while heading up Burisma and hiring Hunter, was also Ukraine's Minister of Ecology and Natural resources, meaning he was working high-level positions in both the public and private sectors  this is called fascism, by the way.

All of this was coming to light through Shokin's work, which was halted by the Obama regime in order to protect the Biden crime family. At the time, there were five different criminal cases against Zlochevsky, including for money laundering, corruption, illegal funds transfers, and profiteering through shell corporations while acting as a sitting government minister.

"The fact that Joe Biden gave away $1 billion in U.S. money in exchange for my dismissal  my firing  isn't that alone a case of corruption?" Shokin told Fox  watch a clip of the interview below:

Viktor Shokin - The Ukrainian Prosecutor Joe Biden BRAGGED about getting FIRED speaks out SHOKIN: "The fact that Joe Biden gave away one billion dollars - in exchange for my dismissal, my firing. - Is that alone a case of corruption?" pic.twitter.com/gy3VCc6JqE  Daily Caller (@DailyCaller) August 25, 2023

The full interview, by the way, aired at 8 p.m. EST on Saturday, August 26, with Brian Kilmeade.

It should be noted that the White House has already responded to the interview by attacking Fox for even airing it. According to the Biden regime, Fox gave a "platform to lies" by conducting and airing the interview  check out another clip of Shokin's interview below.

What skill did Hunter have to earn millions of dollars from the corrupt energy company Burisma? Once Viktor Shokin started investigating Burisma, Biden made sure he was fired. The evidence exists, and no spin from the Biden administration can change obvious facts. pic.twitter.com/vSohuVthGk  Senator Ron Johnson (@SenRonJohnson) August 25, 2023

It turns out that the Obama regime was still actively communicating with Shokin even after Biden threatened in December 2015 to withhold the $1 billion in aid. Not long after that, Petro Poroshenko, the then-president of Ukraine, fired Shokin.

What do you think will happen to the Biden crime family once all the dust settles? Find out more at Treason.news.

Sources for this article include:

ZeroHedge.com

NaturalNews.com
Severino Lividini is in pain.

Hes been in pain for years, and the past two months have been especially bad. From the top of his knees down his legs are swollen and purple. He is waiting for a double knee replacement that he cant afford.

Lividini is homeless. For over four decades, up until this year, he owned a masonry business  Lividini Masonry  and worked on properties in Charlottesville for 20 years. He said he neglected his body to put his daughters through college; he had neck and back surgery and kept going. When his knees became so bad he couldnt work, he shut down his business.

In January, the bank foreclosed on his duplex on Commonwealth Drive, with $36,000 left of his $380,000 mortgage. His trucks were repossessed with eight payments left out of 60. And for the past eight months, hes been sleeping in downtown Charlottesville.

I lost my home, I lost my two trucks, I lost everything by not being able to work, Lividini told The Daily Progress one Friday afternoon, sitting with his back against the Freedom of Speech Wall on the Downtown Mall, his swollen legs stretched out on the bricks, a pair of crutches leaning beside him. Ive worked hard all of my life, and this is the end result. Its horrible.

If youve worked all of your life and you can prove it, there should be some sort of system that helps you, Lividini said. Not one that just throws you in the streets.

Volunteers, business owners and the homeless themselves have all noted the recent rise in homelessness in Charlottesville. With high operating costs and pandemic funding running out for the areas overnight shelters and nonprofit organizations, groups are looking for new sources of funding for projects to help the homeless.

That funding is largely coming from the city, which has expressed support for expanded shelter services across Charlottesville. But even with extensive shelter services, the solution to homelessness  housing  remains out of reach for many.

Theres a fine line, and once you cross over that line, theres no coming back, Lividini said. It just swallows you up.

The recent rise in homelessness

The Haven, a day shelter on West Market Street downtown that provides breakfast, showers and case management to the homeless, has historically seen a dip in demand for those services over the summer months, according to Executive Director Anna Mendez.

This summer, its been the opposite.

We have had multiple days where we have had more than 100 unique individuals come into the Haven, which is something that has not happened before, Mendez told The Daily Progress. Its very concerning to us.

The number of people in Charlottesville who fell into homelessness has grown by 25% since 2018, according to Anthony Haro, executive director of Blue Ridge Area Coalition for the Homeless, which coordinates and leads collaborative efforts to address homelessness.

In addition to the uptick in people using the Havens services, the shelter has recently served people it had not before, Mendez said.

That likely means there are people who have previously not experienced homelessness, or at least havent experienced homelessness in Charlottesville, Mendez said.

Lividini and Thomas Sloan, a Charlottesville resident who is close friends with many of the citys homeless, both noted the increase as well. And the uptick is not necessarily homegrown. Over the summer, Sloan said, Charlottesville has attracted a number of homeless people from places as far off as Kentucky and New York. They take a Greyhound bus or ride an Amtrak train into town, Sloan said.

Its because you can eat here, Lividini told The Daily Progress, referring to the robust system of soup kitchens and food pantries in the Charlottesville area. Theres food everywhere. They give you food, they dont give you housing.

Theres no one answer to the why homelessness question, but a variety of factors create a perfect storm for a rise in homelessness, Mendez said.

For one, the pandemics eviction bans have run out. That happened about a year ago, but the pent-up demand in eviction created a backlog for landlords planning to evict tenants.

Its taken about a year for the eviction process to kick in, Mendez said. So its like this is a lagging indicator of those eviction protections being removed.

Another explanation is something that many Charlottesville residents know well: The city is expensive.

Charlottesville is one of the communities in Virginia with the highest cost of living rates, Mendez said. So as weve seen rents increase, wages have not risen in a way that keeps up with rental costs, and that contributes to people losing their housing.

Residents of Charlottesville and business owners downtown have noticed. Social media posts suggesting a ban on panhandling have garnered dozens of comments and likes supporting the proposal.

In one comment, the owner of the restaurant Tonic described being shouted at, threatened physically and verbally, pushed, masturbated at.

Lividini described being on the street at night, surrounded by frequent fights. He said hes had money stolen off of him.

Liz Nyberg, operations manager at People and Congregations Engaged in Ministry, or PACEM, acknowledged the lack of support for mental illness on the streets and the limited availability of hospital beds allocated for the mentally ill.

There has to be a better response to the rise in the homeless population than banning panhandling or outright removing the homeless  both of which risk violating the Constitution, the Code of Virginia, city ordinances or all three.

If you vilify [homeless people,] theyre just going to dig deeper into themselves, and theyre not going to come back to the resources that can help, Nyberg said. One of the goals of PACEM, a low-barrier overnight shelter organization that operates in the winter, is to build homeless peoples trust in organizations like theirs.

Mendez agreed.

Its something that is incredibly sad to hear as a staff team, particularly when what were hearing sounds more like outrage at the experience of having to observe people who are experiencing homelessness, she said. Rather than outrage at the fact that in one of the wealthiest cities in Virginia, people are experiencing homelessness.

The citys solutions

While the Haven provides shelter during the day, the nights are a different story. According to Lividini, at night, West Market Street is lined with people sleeping in doorways, often on cardboard beds.

Last night? I slept under the bridge, Lividini said.

At night, theres nowhere to use the bathroom. The streets also become dangerous.

We need a place to go at night, not in the daytime, Lividini said. You could get killed out here at night and nobody would know.

Two nonprofit groups in Charlottesville provide overnight shelter: PACEM, a roaming winter shelter, and the Salvation Army on Ridge Street, which offers year-round shelter.

The Salvation Army, which has had to start turning people away, is in the midst of expanding its 58-bed facility to 114 beds.

In June, PACEM ended its hotel-style shelter project called Premier Circle, a product of the pandemic that provided three years of full-time shelter at a renovated Red Carpet Inn. In total, Premier Circle served 177 unique individuals. The projects numbers peaked at 95 individuals in one night.

Now, PACEM is turning its efforts to a year-round womens shelter. The city has been incredibly supportive of their efforts, Nyberg said.

Mendez agreed. Last year, Charlottesville carved out specific funding for nonprofit organizations focused on housing and shelter, Mendez said. This year, for the first time since the Havens establishment, Charlottesville provided funding for its day shelter operations, along with the regular funding for its housing department.

The city has also expressed support to the Havens staff for future project to provide year-round overnight shelter, such as through funding a feasibility study.

Just the fact that the city is now engaging in that conversation is a sea change that we are incredibly grateful for, Mendez said.

Charlottesville is looking to identify gaps in resources available to its homeless population, and has frequent conversations with the local organization working to address the issue, according to recently appointed City Manager Sam Sanders.

The entire two years that Ive been here, Ive been on this issue, Sanders, previously deputy city manager for operations, told The Daily Progress. Im very concerned about it and trying to think of ways that we can do something.

One of those things is a year-round overnight shelter with no barrier to entry, which includes breathalyzers and drug tests.

That is a very expensive proposition, Sanders said.  But it is one that seems to be the very minimum of what we can and should do.

Funding for a year-round shelter would come from the citys affordable housing fund, to which new funding was recently added. Projects could also be supported by federal, regional and state grants and philanthropic resources.

Our affordable housing plan identifies zero to 29% AMI [area median income] as a priority. That would include the unhoused, Sanders said.

The simple housing solution

When Lividini came to Charlottesville in 2004, he said it was wonderful.

I loved it out here, Lividini said. The people, everything. Its beautiful, but its mean.

When The Daily Progress spoke to Lividini on July 27, he said the same thing. But even sitting on a bench in Market Street Park, under the shade of an oak tree in 95 degree heat, Lividini added one additional phrase: Im going to get out of it.

Two weeks later, Lividini put things differently.

Ill die here. I guarantee it, he said. Im going to die out here.

The solution to homelessness is housing.

It does seem simple, thats a good thing, said Haro from the Blue Ridge Area Coalition for the Homeless. That doesnt mean its easy to accomplish. But it is simple.

The barrier to housing in Charlottesville is a lack of space and rental units.

There simply were not enough rentals available to help people move out of homelessness and into a home, Haro said. While funds for both rental assistance and homeless service assistance jumped during the pandemic, the coalition could not find places to use all of it.

Weve never faced that before, Haro said. The pandemic offered us an opportunity to see clearly that we can have all the money we want for rental assistance, but if we dont have enough places for people to move into, thats the constraining factor.

Adding affordable housing units and increasing density are two of the motivations for the citys zoning rewrite, which Haro pointed out. Bringing more units online and continuing to provide rental assistance should be priorities in working to end homelessness, alongside the citys efforts to provide year-round emergency shelter, Haro said.

Theres no emergency solution, but there should be, Lividini said. I know its oversaturated and theres a lot to do, but there should be a safety net for people like me.

In the meantime, Lividini said he just hopes to be acknowledged.

I run into people I knew that I did work for, here on the Downtown Mall, Lividini said. Its embarrassing. How can a human being live like this? You could be here, dying and they walk over you.

Nyberg from PACEM said where she grew up, the homeless population was shipped off. But that didnt make the problem go away.

I would much rather have a conversation with someone for what they need than to not see them at all, Nyberg said.
Florida surgeon general tells Americans to NOT cooperate with mask mandates

With all the talk right now about fake president Joe Biden soon ordering Americans to mask back up due to the latest Wuhan coronavirus (COVID-19) "variant" fears, Florida Surgeon General Joseph Ladapo has an urgent message for America: Do not comply

On social media, Ladapo blasted the Biden regime for trying to resurrect "pandemic" tyranny just in time for the 2024 presidential election  the very same thing, in fact, that was pulled just before the 2020 presidential election.

"What do you call re-imposing mask policies that have been proven ineffective or restarting lockdowns that are known to cause harm?" Ladapo asked. "You don't call it sanity."

"These terrible policies only work with your cooperation. How about refusing to participate ..."

These are what you call fighting words from one of the top state doctors against a regime obsessed with medical fascism. We know that masks are about control and suffocation, and that the regime does not have our best interests in mind  and Ladapo seems to understand that.

(Related: Last year, Ladapo warned the public that covid injections destroy the hearts of young men.)

DeSantis press secretary calls children in N95 masks "gross"

Already, we are hearing about colleges, movie studios, and other components of the establishment bringing back the mask mandates. Fake news giant CNN is also now telling its handful of viewers to slap back on a mask, because "science."

"If you're at high risk of serious illness or death from Covid-19, it's time to dust off those N95 masks, according to a growing number of experts," CNN tweeted.

Jeremy Redfern, the press secretary for Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, responded to the CNN tweet in disgust, particularly because it showed a picture of a young child wearing a mask.

"They're using a picture of a child in an N95," Redern tweeted. "Gross."

"Luckily, @GovRonDeSantis proposed and signed legislation that banned mask mandates in Florida ... We aren't going to play in the federal government's biomedical security theater."

That legislation, by the way, was signed into law back in May. It permanently bans all mask mandates in the Sunshine State, including for all government buildings, schools, and medical facilities such as hospitals and doctors' offices.

DeSantis also signed a law against the World Health Organization's (WHO) so-called "Pandemic Treaty," as well as banned gain of function research and signed a Protection of Medical Conscience Act.

"I want to be a haven for physicians who put the evidence above what some medical society said," DeSantis said about himself after signing what some say is the strongest medical freedom law in the country.

"It is the intent of the Legislature that Floridians be free from mandated facial coverings, mandates of any kind relating to vaccines as provided in this section, and discrimination based on such vaccination status," the law reads.

In his 2023 State of the State address, DeSantis warned that Americans everywhere face a denial of their freedoms "due to a coercive biomedical apparatus."

"These policies," DeSantis would add, "are grounded more in blind adherence to Faucian declarations than they are in the Constitutional traditions that are the foundation of free nations."

"Across the nation we see Americans denied freedoms due to a coercive biomedical apparatus. These policies ..are grounded more in blind adherence to Faucian declarations than they are in the Constitutional traditions that are the foundation of free nations." -@GovRonDeSantis pic.twitter.com/Tje1ul5uF3  Chris Nelson ?? ? (@ReOpenChris) January 11, 2022

Ladapo is thrilled about what DeSantis has done. He is also one of the America's Frontline Doctors who appeared on the front steps of the Supreme Court back in July 2020 and called for an end to all COVID mandates while promoting the use of hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) for treating the disease.

There is never a good reason to get "vaccinated" for COVID. Learn more at ChemicalViolence.com.

Sources for this article include:

FloridianPress.com

NaturalNews.com
An inconvenient Trump: Republicans are living an enormous lie

The Republican primary debate charade, hosted by a hapless Bret Baier and Martha MacCallum, revealed two things: Vivek Ramaswamy is a rising star, and Donald Trump dominated as the elephant not in the room.

(Article by Melissa Mackenzie republished from Spectator.org)

The Democrats and the media run a constant clown show, but the Republicans play along as useless puppets, willfully participating in a system designed to destroy them. The Republican party is allowing itself to be rigged by playing by the rules of an old system that no longer exists. The Democrats, bureaucracy, and media are vicious apparatchiks. They are a dirty and obvious enemy who clearly need to be fought. The Republicans are worse because they dont see their own participation in the Big Lie. They would rather step over Trumps dead political body than save the republic. In so doing, they will never have power again, even if they regain it. They will be vassals of the state apparatus, nothing more  or else.

Donald Trump is not the Republican front runner. Hes the presumptive nominee. Further, hes the most popular politician in America. Trump created a coalition that made the Rust Belt winnable. He turned Ohio, Florida, and Iowa reliably red. He made Pennsylvania, Michigan, North Carolina, and Wisconsin gettable. In Florida, he out-won Ron DeSantis by 1 million votes.

Why the all-out assault on Donald Trump? Because in a fair system, he wins  and he wins bigly.

The assault on Trump and anyone who supported him is an attack on the only one standing in the way of generations of Democrat power, and the Republicans are pretending that America and the Republican Party can return to a Bush-era neocon Republicanism that simply doesnt exist anymore outside the beltway.

How, pray tell, would any of the Republicans on the debate stage win in the general election? Where do they win, and how do they expand Trumps coalition? Is their big strategy to win back Georgia and Arizona?

Only one candidate on the debate stage tangentially dealt with this reality: Vivek Ramaswamy. That every other Republican doesnt understand the heart of the lie was revealed by Vivek. He knows that the biggest issue facing the republic is the disintegration of the rule of law surrounding the persecution and baseless prosecution of Donald Trump and anyone who supports him. Vivek says he wants to win, but not like this. Heres his exchange with Chris Christie, Democrat operative:

The question is: Why are the rest of this Republican field okay with winning this way?

How can any Republican govern if voters cant canvass, cant protest, cant speak on social media, if no attorneys can advise Republican candidates, if strategy callers cant brainstorm ideas for winning, if legitimate lawsuits are dismissed out of hand, if free speech is not allowed? How can Republicans win against sophisticated vote-running machines? How do they win against faked, duped, and dumped ballots? How do they win against millions of dollars laundered through accounts where people didnt actually donate to the Democrat Party? How do they win against the new Zuck Bucks? Is something magical going to happen in 2024 that sweeps these issues away?

Now that the Democrats, the State, and the media have created a playing field where they alone win, what will the uncharismatic, unserious Republicans on the debate stage do to win?

The debate questions were inane. Why did these Fox talking heads blab about whether Mike Pence did the right thing? Chris Christie, in an act of sexual servicing too shameless for even the seediest blue district, extolled Pence as a defender of the Constitution, God, and country. It was so risible that the audience laughed. Who do these folks think theyre kidding?

Speaking of Pence, he came off as a constipated church lady. A raging hypocritical one, at that. Of all people, he knows the injustice being served cold to Trump, and he cannot let charitable words pass his mouth.

Where were the questions about Bidens corruption? What about the bribes? Why was the question about a man who is not holding office when the man holding office is compromised by Americas enemies? Just today, the Daily Mail reports that the Bidens are alleged to have taken foreign bribes.

Further, why didnt the Republicans on the stage address Maui and the massacre there? How about plans for an economy wrecked by Joe Biden and the plight of the poor and working class? Gas prices are increasing again. Groceries are so expensive that it cost this writer $72 for the main ingredients of a spaghetti dinner. How about the failed states attempting to impose masks and restrictions when the data is clear that they do more harm than good? Are shutdowns coming? These issues affect voters every day. Meanwhile, the Republicans wax eloquent on Ukraine.

Truth has left the Republican Party, and its diminishing them, if thats even possible. They can talk of the border. They can pontificate about the world-changing necessity of making Ukraine secure. They can tell everyone what they already know: Vladimir Putin is a bad guy. Noted. Now, how about something more pressing and closer to home? How about addressing the criminalization of free speech? How about addressing the conditions of Jan. 6 defendants? How about addressing using the justice system to bankrupt and persecute political enemies? How about addressing the raw, unchecked power being thrown around by the Biden administration?

Examine this list of Democrats criminalizing political enemies:

Meanwhile, Joe Biden brags in a tweet as Trump gets prosecuted for his tweets:

Apropos of nothing, I think today's a great day to give to my campaign. https://t.co/Tj5cURqgQT  Joe Biden (@JoeBiden) August 24, 2023

Republicans dont mention the Jan. 6 prisoners. Theres no recompense for those brought before the Jan. 6 Committee, the one that destroyed evidence. The Jan. 6 footage is still not released.

Donald Trump is facing more than 90 charges and 700 years in prison. The Republican response to this travesty of justice? Meekly raising hands saying theyd pardon him, maybe, if they became president  which will not happen in 2024 and probably not ever.

The enemy isnt out there somewhere. Well, it is. But guess what? The average American citizen has much less to fear without than within.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation placed agents in Catholic churches to look for dissidents. The DOJ is prosecuting people and dropping charges at the last minute, just to make people suffer. The persecution is the point. Across the fruited plains, American citizens doing perfectly legal things are being arrested because they deign to disagree.

Republicans respond by whistling past the graveyard in a meaningless debate debating meaningless things.

Donald Trump is an inconvenient truth exposing the corruption of a corrupted elite. His persecution, and those of his followers, is putting the whole system on trial, and America is being found wanting. The Democrats, run by communists who would happily burn the system down in service to ideology, are being aided and abetted by Republicans who put personal ambition and hatred of Trump over love of country.

Step outside the debate and see it for what it really is: a sideshow to mollify the wicked and stupid. Not one of these candidates can win the nomination, and should the powers that be succeed in jailing or killing Donald Trump, not one can win the presidency. And if, by some random chance, a Republican does win the presidency, he or she will be a pleasing suit presiding over nothing and serving at the pleasure of masters greater than any one of them.

Read more at: Spectator.org
Man forcibly admitted to psychiatric ward for criticizing Norwegian lockdown policy and questioning efficacy of mRNA shots

A Norwegian man, who has been an active critic of the nation's healthcare system in connection with the lockdown policy and the mandatory Wuhan coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccines, was dragged by policemen from his home and forcibly admitted to a psychiatric facility pursuant to section 3-2 of the Mental Health Care Act.

Trond Harald Haaland does not believe the mainstream media rhetoric and has long been speaking against things like the World Economic Forum and its founder Klaus Schwab, climate change, and vaccine passports. He has posted on social media a lot about the excess death rates reported after the rollout of the mRNA vaccines. Then, someone anonymously reported him to the cops for being "mentally unstable," which was oddly already enough for the police to contact the health system. On July 19, two "health care workers" together with two uniformed police officers arrived at his door and forcibly hauled the man away and locked him up in a psychiatric ward.

According to the senior doctor who attended to him, "When he is healthy and stable, he does not post and is not interested in these topics [climate skepticism, covid vaccine skepticism among other things]. It is not normal behavior that he is now displaying considering how he is when he is healthy. He is still secretive and suspicious."

Swedish journalist and political commentator Peter Imanuelsen questioned the medical practitioner's assessment. "The doctor said that the man is not 'healthy' when he is posting about things like stopping children from getting the mRNA vaccine and not believing in the official narrative about climate change. So, did this doctor read his Facebook posts? No, the doctor did not even have a Facebook account!" Imanuelsen, also known as PeterSweden, further disclosed maltreatment to Haaland upon his "arrest," which should not be happening in a democracy.

"He was not allowed to go outside and get some fresh air, because he 'did not want to be here.' His lawyer [Attorney Barbro Paulsen] had also requested to be there when the senior doctor had a meeting with her client, but she (Paulsen) was denied," the journalist posted in his Substack newsletter titled "The Freedom Corner."

The message that Haaland had been forcibly admitted began circulating on Facebook on July 21 and it was claimed that he was hospitalized because of a post he had just written on the platform, where he allegedly used the term "mass murder" to describe the deaths caused by the vaccine.

After the "arrest," authorities did not send case documents that were requested as early as July 19 by the lawyer. Paulsen was also told by the hospital that the report of concern was anonymous, which is highly unusual. After admission, a female doctor did not meet the patient and the attorney said that the reasons she was told over the phone appeared to be very vague and weakly founded. "It can trigger a shock trauma. This is an experience that can be so frightening that you get tipped off balance just by that," the lawyer pointed out.

Finally, the man was let go after being held for nine days following a ruling by a jury at the Control Commission for Psychiatric Healthcare saying that there was no justification for forcibly locking him up. "But the fact that this could happen to begin with and that he was locked up for nine days is extremely worrying. If they can do it to him, they can do it to more people as well," Imanuelsen warned.

Personal freedom is infringed in this case, lawyer points out

Paulsen talks a lot about the rule of law and its principles. She has gone through her client's posts on Facebook and spoken to the network of complainants. The rule of law was broken when the medical officer said Haaland had a manic post on the social media platform when the doctor hadn't even bothered to go into it to check.

"This is a very serious infringement on a citizen's personal freedom," the attorney stressed. "It's about both the Constitution and the ECHR (European Convention on Human Rights); the right to privacy. This is one of the strongest protections we have." She went on to emphasize that in our own homes, we feel that it is the only place on earth where we are safe. "That's our cave. There's a reason why ancient property rights have been so strong: because out there it's a jungle. There you have to fight for everything. But your home is a sacred place, and there's a reason why before the world cracked, it was very heavily protected," she said, adding that unfortunately it's no longer working the way it's supposed to be because the moment public servants in uniform come to your safe cave and violate your privacy, "they have violated you forever."

She also noted that psychiatry has always been used as a state weapon. Based on experience with former clients who have been involuntarily hospitalized and forcibly medicated, she pointed out that people risk being deprived of liberty based on their perception of reality.

Bookmark BigGovernment.news for stories on government overreach similar to this.

Sources for this article include:

Steigan.no

PeterSweden.substack.com

Document.no
Right Now with Ann Vandersteel: John Frankman says Pentagon violated Nuremberg Code with its illegal VACCINE MANDATE  Brighteon.TV

Former U.S. Army Special Forces Capt. John Frankman believes the Department of Defense (DoD) violated the Nuremberg Code by forcing American military personnel to take the Wuhan coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccine.

"The military service members were screwed over by military leaders in pretty much a Nuremberg [Code] violation, because the code says you can't be forced to take something against your own will. You can't be coerced, you can't take something that's experimental that you don't know the results for," the former soldier explained during the Aug. 16 episode of "Right Now with Ann Vandersteel" on Brighteon.TV.

"People need to realize that the mandate was illegal. The shots that were provided  [and] the COVID-19 test were not approved by the FDA [Food and Drug Administration]."

Frankman told Vandersteel that while the military was quick to assign people as having COVID-19, it hasn't looked into the injuries caused by the COVID-19 vaccine. Some individuals who reached out to him shared the vaccine damage they suffered  including facial paralysis, a deficient immune system and more.

Prior to the vaccine mandate, the actual military policy was the COVID-19 vaccines were optional. However, military authorities were putting pressure on service members with regard to "readiness." The vaccine mandate was enforced in practice by taking away deployments, said Frankman.

He pointed out that even though 90 to 95 percent of the military got the vaccine, it wasn't based on their free will. Making service members do something they aren't supposed to do will demoralize and hurt them, Frankman added.

COVID-19 vaccine mandate negatively impacted the military

According to the former Green Beret, the illegal COVID-19 vaccine mandate had negative effects on the U.S. military's readiness. He was fortunate to not have been kicked out or forced out of the service, but others have not been so lucky. But as a Green Beret, Frankman wasn't allowed to be deployed, moved to different assignments or go on temporary duty travel due to his unvaccinated status. (Related: Highly decorated US military officer resigns in protest of COVID vaccine mandate.)

Frankman expounded on the repercussions of the COVID-19 vaccine mandate in a July 31 op-ed for the Floridian Press. "Although many service members were forced out because of the vaccine mandate, many more are leaving because they are disillusioned with the military. The institution [has] forced them to choose between their career or their conscience, health, and well-being," he wrote.

"Now, the military is a less lethal force than it should be as it wasted immense time and energy focusing on forcing service members to conform, rather than to train, all while facing a major recruiting and retention problem."

People were forced to take an emergency use authorization drug, noted Frankman, making Big Pharma immune to any liability in case of any vaccine injuries. But while Big Pharma isn't liable, the Defense Department is  because it paid the pharmaceutical firms to make the COVID-19 vaccines.

Vandersteel agreed with her guest, denouncing the "100 percent immoral" vaccine mandate. She added that Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin is responsible for mandating the COVID vaccine and forcing it on all military personnel.

She then asked if other military service members are mulling legal action against the defense secretary. Frankman replied in the affirmative, citing a number of complaints against Austin based on existing laws.

Visit MedicalTyranny.com for more stories about the military's COVID-19 vaccine mandate.

Watch the Aug. 16 episode of "Right Now with Ann Vandersteel" below. Tune in to "Right Now with Ann Vandersteel" every weekday at 8-9 p.m. on Brighteon.TV.

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Sources include:

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Reports: Advanced Chinese nuclear submarine crashed in Taiwan Strait

Reports are emerging that a Chinese nuclear-powered submarine may have crashed in the disputed Taiwan Strait . The rumors spreading online claim that one of China's Type 093 "Shang-class" nuclear-powered submarines crashed due to unknown circumstances

The rumors first began spreading on Tuesday, Aug. 22, on X, the social media platform owned by tech entrepreneur Elon Musk formerly known as Twitter.

According to the rumors, the Type 093 crashed at around 2 p.m. local time on Monday, Aug. 21, while the submarine was performing a mission in the Taiwan Strait. The rumors further claim that the entire crew of around 100 people, including seven trainees, died in the accident, and that Chinese leader Xi Jinping has been notified of the incident.

Weighing nearly 7,000 tons and roughly the same size as British, French and American nuclear-powered submarines of a similar capability, Type 093 is one of China's most advanced nuclear-powered submarines. Type 093 represents the People's Liberation Army Navy's (PLAN) growth as the largest naval force in the world, thanks to the rapid expansion of its submarine force.

According to the London-based think tank the International Institute of Strategic Studies, China has at least six Shang-class submarines. Naval expert and analyst H.I. Sutton noted that while Type 093 is not the most common submarine in the PLAN, "it is currently the most potent."

Taiwan Defense Ministry denies Chinese sub crash

The Taiwanese Ministry of National Defense has refuted rumors of the submarine crash as "unsubstantiated."

Addressing a room full of reporters in the Taiwanese capital of Taipei, Defense Ministry spokesman Sun Li-Fang said the nation's joint intelligence and surveillance agencies did not detect any evidence of a submarine crash.

Sun further pointed out how the rumors have only circulated on Chinese and Taiwanese social media circles, and no official sources either from the mainland or the island have confirmed the alleged incident. Sun added that the Defense Ministry continues to closely monitor "all maritime and aerial activities around the Taiwan Strait."

The Communist Chinese Ministry of Defense did not mention anything regarding a Chinese submarine crashing in the Taiwan Strait during its most recent press briefing, and no report of a submarine disaster has appeared in any reports from state news agencies.

The Taiwan Strait is the natural geographical border that separates the communist mainland from the democratically governed island nation. China has long threatened to make a move to invade and subjugate Taiwan if the latter does not choose to peacefully reunify with the mainland. (Related: Biden approves $345 million weapons package to Taiwan to support the island against Chinese invasion.)

The rumors regarding the crashing of the sub add fuel to an already tense situation between Beijing and Taipei, as Xi continues ramping up his hostility against Taiwan.

Watch this episode from the "Worldview Report" as host Brannon Howse interviews a Chinese-American dissident about how social and economic unrest in China is pushing the Chinese Communist Party to move up its timetable for invading Taiwan.

This video is from the Worldview Report channel on Brighteon.com.

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Sources include:

Express.co.uk

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Brighteon.com
RFK Jr. blasts U.S. government for its addiction to war following $24B aid request for Ukraine

Democratic presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. (RFK Jr.) has blasted the U.S. government's "addiction to war" after Washington requested billions of dollars worth of additional aid package for Ukraine.

During an Aug. 22 townhall in South Carolina, he pointed out that this "addiction" of the federal government  alongside the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war  is a major contributor to America's current economic problems.

"One of the big problems we have in our federal government is the addiction to war," RFK Jr. told the crowd. "We've spent $8 trillion dollars on wars since 9/11. If we kept that money home, we would've had childcare for every American; we would have free college education for every American; we'd be able to pay for our Social Security system."

According to a Fox News report, President Joe Biden requested for a new tranche of Ukraine-bound assistance amounting to $24 billion. Of this amount, $13 billion will be used for defense purposes and the additional $11 billion will be earmarked for economic and humanitarian aid. But according to RFK Jr., the nation should be redirecting resources toward domestic priorities instead.

The environment and health freedom advocate, who has expressed intentions to challenge Biden in the upcoming Democratic primaries, has consistently advocated for peace negotiations to end the conflict in Ukraine. He called for direct communication with Russia and Ukraine to reach a peaceful resolution. RFK Jr. also invoked the words of former President John F. Kennedy, his uncle, regarding the importance of keeping the U.S. out of wars. (Related: PROXY WAR: RFK Jr. says the West provoked Putin to invade Ukraine.)

"We have made no effort to talk to the Russian leadership for many, many months, almost a year. And there have been many efforts by the Russian leadership to engage Ukraine in peace negotiations. And we have rebuffed these."

GOP lawmakers: NO MORE aid for Ukraine

According to the Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget, Congress had previously authorized $113.1 billion for Ukraine in 2022. But now, Republican lawmakers have called for an end to Kyiv-bound aid, mirroring RFK Jr.'s stance on the matter. According to them, Washington has already provided enough since last year.

Missouri Sen. Josh Hawley, a vocal critic of aid packages to Ukraine, rebuked Biden as being "totally out of step with the American people."

"By plowing billions more of our taxpayer dollars into a war in Europe, Joe Biden is sending a clear signal that Ukraine takes priority over securing our southern border, deterring China in the Pacific and getting costs down for working families at home," he said.

Wyoming Sen. John Barrasso, echoing his colleague's sentiments, called for rigorous scrutiny of the additional spending request. He emphasized the need to focus on domestic issues, stressing that the U.S. cannot shoulder the responsibility alone and that North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) member countries should also contribute their fair share.

"We have real work to do here at home. The U.S. has doubled what other NATO countries have contributed  combined," stated Barrasso. "Our NATO allies need to step up because the U.S. will not shoulder this alone."

The debate surrounding the allocation of funds to Ukraine has led to legislative efforts aimed at restricting aid. Several congressmen, including Montana Rep. Matt Rosendale and Florida Rep. Matt Gaetz, have proposed measures to curtail funding for Kyiv until specific conditions  such as securing the southern border  are met.

"We fought wars for decades in the Middle East because oil companies had their hooks in the Bushes," said Gaetz. "Now, we plow arms and cash into the homeland of the Burisma Biden bribers. No thanks."

Visit BigGovernment.news for more stories about the federal government's "addiction to war."

Watch this video about NATO preparing for war to "save Ukraine."

This video is from the channel The Prisoner on Brighteon.com.

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Sources include:

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FOOD SUPPLY ATTACK: U.S. government raided and shutdown Golden Valley Farms, an independent meat producer in Virginia

Samuel Fisher, owner of Golden Valley Farms, is being persecuted by the U.S. government all because his family raises their own animals, slaughters the meat on the farm, and sells that meat to the community. Mr. Fisher is a mild-mannered, father of five who owns and operates a 100-acre cattle farm in the heartland of Virginia. The farm began five years ago selling milk, cream, and yogurt, before they began to butcher and sell their own meat. Now the farm is under attack by government operators who are trying to shut the farm down and stop the man from feeding his own family.

Amish farmer who feeds hundreds of people in the community, under attack

This ain't right. We had all this meat. We worked hard to get it in the freezer, process it, package it, said Mr. Fisher in an interview with Townhall. The next day. They came with a search warrant, went through everything, the house, every building, the barn. They just raided through everything. We can't touch it. We can't sell it. We can't feed our family. We can't give it away, can't feed it to the dogs. We can't do anything with it. They just took it to the dump.

Mr. Fisher raises and butchers his meat on site and sells it directly to his customers. His farm feeds about 500 people in the community. The Golden Valley Farms membership program allows individuals to own part of Fishers herd of 100% grass-fed golden Guernsey cows.

Without warning, an inspector with the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) paid Golden Valley Farms a visit on June 14th. That day, the government decided to penalize Mr. Fisher for selling meat that was not processed by a USDA-inspected facility.

Innocent farmer is raided, his property seized, for the crime of feeding his family and community

When Fisher began selling meat, he went to a USDA inspector and sent the meat to the designated USDA facilities. The butchering and processing through the USDA were slow and cumbersome. Mr. Fisher was unable to ship the required quantity of animals at one time and could not operate economically and in a timely manner to satisfy his customers. By the time the meat comes back, you might be running low on certain cuts of meat, but what you order from USDA was not accurate to that. You might run out of some stuff long before other stuff because you had to order it so far in advance.

His customers prompted Mr. Fisher to process the meat on the farm, without a USDA inspection. When the USDA surveyed the customer base, the majority (92%) responded that they wanted the meat processed on the farm, without interference from the government. You have to keep going because people are depending on this stuff as their medicine. I want this world to have the opportunity of finding real food, Mr. Fisher said.

Fisher said that the lockdowns in 2020 forced him to wait 8 to 12 months to schedule the butchering process. At that time, his customers were stocking up on meat as stores were running out of supply.

All of a sudden, we had a lot of need for meat, Fisher said. Well, there was no option taking it to USDA facility, so that's when the trigger was pushed to do it ourselves. Customers were buying mostly from our own meat, not so much from the USDA. Then the pandemic came and there was no other option but either not have it available or process it ourselves. So, we started processing ourselves. We put additions to the building and made a processing room and we certainly like it now.

Mr. Fishers customers preferred that the meat be processed on site. They own part of the business. They own some of the herd, Fisher explained. My thinking was [] We can butcher their cows, process it, and sell it to them. I told the state all of this, but they said, No, theres no way around that. You cant do that. Fisher said the inspectors asked permission to search the farm. Mr. Fisher denied their request. And, they told me, Well be back, and left, Fisher said.

The state targeted his farm from there forward. They came in and took pictures and lied to the courts, claiming that Mr. Fisher was selling raw meat and was a public health risk. When the state returned to his farm, they raided the freezers and packed a U-Haul truck full of their meat. Mr. Fisher was ordered not to feed anyone again, not even his dogs or his own family. None of these customers have ever gotten sick from his products. Many depend on the products for their health and food security.

But this didnt matter to the all-powerful state. When Mr. Fisher continued to feed his family and sell food to his community, the state came in with criminal charges and seized his farm. He now has no choice but to fight back against a rogue government.

Sources include:

Revolver.News

Townhall.com
Insanity: Canadian woman seeking help for suicidal thoughts receives suggestion to commit ASSISTED SUICIDE

A Canadian woman seeking help for her suicidal thoughts was left shocked and distressed when a clinician assessing her case suggested medical assistance in dying (MAID), commonly called euthanasia.

Thirty-seven-year-old Kathrin Mentler of Vancouver, British Columbia has battled depression for most of her life. She has even attempted suicide multiple times, but managed to survive with the help of hospital staff. During a moment of crisis in June, she visited the Vancouver General Hospital's (VGH) Access and Assessment Center.

But instead of receiving the help she sought, Mentler was shocked when the clinician not only mentioned the lack of available psychiatric beds but also suggested MAID as an option. Further conversation with the clinician revealed that MAID was being considered due to the apparent lack of available resources. The suggestion left Mentler bewildered as she initially interpreted it as a reference to a cleaning service.

Mentler expressed her disbelief and distress, stating, "I came to the center for help, not for recommendations on how to kill myself. I very specifically went there that day because I didn't want to get into a situation where I would think about taking an overdose of medication.

"Gauging suicide [risk] should not include offering options to die, which is what it felt like. I also think it's worth considering that, as of right now, MAID for mental health is not legal yet, so giving someone the specifics of the process seems wrong. How can this be standard procedure for suicide crisis intervention?" (Related: Aussie scientist promotes ASSISTED SUICIDE in Scotland using DIY death pods.)

Expansion of euthanasia to mentally ill patients sparks controversy

Mentler has since filed a complaint against VGH. Meanwhile, the medical facility confirmed in an email that its staff is trained to explore all available care options for suicidal patients.

Current MAID legislation in Canada allows for those with terminal illnesses to access the procedure. However, amendments to the law set to take effect in March 2024 will enable people who suffer from mental illness as their sole underlying condition to seek euthanasia. This has sparked outrage from disability and mental health advocates who fear that individuals may opt for MAID due to inadequate access to proper care and support rather than their underlying issues.

Dr. Sonu Gaind of the Sunnybrook Health Sciences Center in Toronto said making euthanasia accessible for someone with mental illness is "disturbing." Gaind, Sunnybrook's chief of psychiatry, also said he is "appalled" to see the safeguards removed for mental illness patients in the MAID law. According to him, assessing patients with mental issues for MAID is difficult due to the unpredictable nature of recovery.

Gaind also zoomed in on the power imbalance between health workers and patients. Given that the clinicians' inherent role involves guiding and influencing patients' decisions  rendering them neutrally unable to provide information about MAID  this dynamic may compromise the ability of patients to make truly autonomous choices.

"This is a new outfit for an old way of dealing with differences, which started off as eugenics," said Michelle Stack of the University of British Columbia. "Instead of offering care, dignity, community and belonging  we'll offer none of those things, but give people MAID and call it compassion."

Euthanasia.news has more stories about assisted suicide.

Watch Canadian political analyst Darshan Maharaja discussing the issue of assisted suicide below.

This video is from the CHP Canada channel on Brighteon.com.

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Seven new and unknown species of insect leaf were found with amazingly plant-looking and cryptic appearance, according to a recent report.

At first, people will not recognize the insects because it looks like a leaf hiding in plants. However, a closer look could show the new species of insects.

The discovery of new species has been essential to unearth animals or fauna unknown to experts and scientists.

Once scientists can identify, it can help to develop conservation plans, especially if they become threatened by population decline or brink of extinction.

According to the study published in Zookeys, advanced technology and molecular phylogenetics helped researchers to describe and find new species of leaf insects.

New species of leaf insects

The discovery of leaf insects can become challenging because they are not active during the day, hiding in leaves or trees' branches from possible predators.

The leaf insects are also known as walking leaves.

International researchers, including from Gottingen University and City University New York, collaborated to discover new species of leaf insects.

Based on the reports, the elusive ability of leaf insects can be found in parts of the Pacific, Asia and Australasia.

Researchers explained that it is also difficult to determine the leaf insects. The study could identify the new species with fieldwork, observations, and genetic characteristics.

Globally, at least 900,000 species of current insects are already known, and scientists have been on the quest to uncover new types of insects.

Insects managed to live millions of years ago, even with dinosaurs' time before they went extinct.

Unlike other animals, insects are present in all habitats. In Antarctica, there are insects called the Belgica antarctica, adding that 10 million species of insects could live on Earth.

Meanwhile, about 91,000 species are already known or described in the U.S., while 73,000 are still undescribed. Insects significantly affect the planet's ecosystem, helping pollinate plants, trees and flowers.

The researchers explained that a new species of leaf insects was found in Southeast Asia.

At first, the report noted that it was part of the same known species, but later analysis found that they are unknown to science.

Also Read: Unique, Unknown Persian Gold Tarantula Discovered in Northwestern Iran

New species of Persian Gold Tarantula

Recently, researchers unearthed a new species of Persian Gold Tarantula with golden hairs in Northwestern Iran.

The study was also published in the Zookeys journal.

To confirm the discovery, they provided the first specimen of a female tarantula for analysis and study. They found that the Persian Gold Tarantula is new to science.

The new species of tarantula belongs to the Chaetopelma, named Chaetopelma persianum. The tarantula likes to burrow in mountains in Northern Zagros.

Related Article: Unusual Pink Grasshopper in U.K. Garden: Insect Likely to Die from Predators

For more similar stories, don't forget to follow Nature News.
Researchers raised concerns about the declining population of unique monarch butterflies, calling for urgent conservation efforts to save species.

From afar, the monarch butterflies (Danaus plexippus) can be easily recognized with colorful wings, with orange and black. The said species of butterfly is native to North America and is known to travel far distances, up to 2800 miles, to migrate.

Declining population of Monarch butterflies

In a study published in Conservation Letters, the International Union for Conservation of Nature classified the population of monarch butterflies as endangered.

The report explained that monarch butterflies suffered from a significant decline of 91% since 1996. As a result, continuous monitoring and conservation management are essential to prevent the brink of extinction.

However, climate change and global warming have impacted the monarch butterflies' migration and successful breeding.

When they breed, the said butterflies require abundant mountain forests. However, illegal logging, human-caused stressors and commercialization affect forests, migratory and breeding grounds.

According to researchers, the monarch butterflies near the Rocky Mountains declined by 81%.

In addition, the milkweed is essential for breeding butterflies, which is also affected by urbanization.

In the United States, the researchers explained the importance of protection efforts and listed the species for urgent conservation. Recognizing the species of monarch butterflies as endangered can help to protect them, especially their critical habitats.

Professor Damon Hall, the study's co-author, explained that monarch butterflies are vulnerable to stressors, noting the cultural importance of said butterflies.

Protecting the breeding areas and food sources is crucial to avoiding problematic consequences.

Also Read: Bee Cocoons Mummified in Portugal: New Fossils Lived During Pharaoh Reign 3000 Years Ago

More facts about the monarch butterflies

Reports showed that monarch butterflies can weigh up to less than half a gram.

They may appear small but are migration experts, traveling thousands of miles from the Northeast U.S. to parts of Mexico or Canada.

The IUCN added that extreme heat and drought conditions could affect the population of monarch butterflies. In addition, prolonged wildfires can disrupt their migration, making survival more challenging.

On the other hand, the U.S. Forest Service explained that the butterflies can be found in parts of North America, especially where milkweed is abundant.

The Midwest records the most number of monarch butterflies.

They can live up to six weeks, depending on the environment of threats of extreme weather events.

The butterflies have spots of scent glands that help them attract or find a potential female partner.

The female monarch butterflies can have up to 1000 eggs laying on milkweed. The eggs can hatch after three or five days.

Due to threats of habitat loss, immediate conservation efforts are essential, especially in the U.S. and Mexico.

Related Article: Antarctica's Emperor Penguins Suffer From Catastrophic Breeding Failure Due to Global Warming

For more similar stories, don't forget to follow Nature News.
The Hawaiian Electric has insisted that power supply has been shutdown for hours when the second fire broke out in Maui.

In response to the lawsuits lodged against the electric company, the Hawaiian Electric noted that the complaint was irresponsibly filed.

According to Hawaiian Electric President Shelee Kimura, the power lines in West Maui had been de-energized for more than six hours when the second flame had struck the area.

Hawaiian Electric side

Kimura has admitted that the first flame was likely caused by its power lines, but it noted that the source of the second fire has not been determined yet by authorities.

Kimura mentioned that the firm was surprised and disappointed that the County of Maui rushed to court even before completing its own investigation.

The County of Maui had lodged complaints against the Hawaiian Electric company over the massive fires that brought massive damage in Lahaina, claiming that the power utility had negligently failed to shut off power despite the occurrence of powerful winds and dry conditions prior to the flames.

Authorities from the County of Maui alleged that the power lines gravely contributed in the wildfires, which destroyed the historic town of Lahaina.

The massive blaze had claimed the lives of at least 115 individuals and displaced thousands of residents.

In a previous statement posted in its website, the Hawaiian Electric said it is a company of Hawaii, for Hawaii, and Maui is part of its ohana.

"When ohana needs you, you show up. We are not spectators or detached observers. This is us. We are thousands of people across five islands who call Hawaii our home, including many personally impacted by the windstorm and fires. We are here for Maui and its people however long it takes," the company said.

"The restoration efforts underway are personal to us. In the days and weeks to come, Hawaiian Electric will continue to be here in full force with hundreds of dedicated employees and partners from Maui, Oahu, Hawaii Island, Molokai, Lanai, and beyond," it added.

Read Also: Lahaina Banyan Tree: 150-Year-Old 'Traumatized Burn Victim' of Maui Wildfire 'Still Breathing'

Upcounty fires

When it comes to the containment of fires, the Maui Fire Department (MFD) has advised the public that complete extinguishment for Upcountry fires could take an extended period of time given the large burn area and the nature of the rural terrain.

It noted that containment percentages in various areas have not changed in the past days as firefighting personnel continue to reassure the public that there are no active threats among the three ongoing flames.

The death toll remains at 115 with 99% of Lahaina disaster area searched by cadaver dogs.

Authorities said that at present, there is no list allowing residents to return to the disaster area in Lahaina. They assured the public that there would be a coordinated effort to develop a plan for the safe return of residents.

So far, the disaster area is restricted to authorized personnel only.

Officials continue to seek the help of residents in identifying individuals reported unaccounted following the Lahaina wildfire disaster.

They said that the validated list of names is available at mauinuistrong.info/unaccountedfor.

Related Article: Maui Wildfire Update: 'Still-burning Fires' Not Posing Active Threats; Firefighters Find It Hard To Contain Blaze in Urban Areas

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Do dogs prefer female voices?

Mothers use sing-song language to talk to their infants. Their dogs respond to it, too, according to a new study.

Researchers in Hungary also found that dogs have greater brain sensitivity to the speech directed at them than to adult-directed speech, especially if the words are spoken by a woman.

In imaging scans, dogs and infants showed brain similarities during the processing of speech with exaggerated prosody, sometimes referred to as motherese -- that simple, playful and rhythmic speech style mothers often use.

To study this in dogs, researchers measured dog brain activity via functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI).

Read more here:

Gender-affirming surgeries in the US have nearly tripled in 3 years

The number of Americans undergoing gender-affirming surgery is on the rise, new research reveals, almost tripling between 2016 and 2019 alone.

During that period, more than 48,000 patients -- about half of them between 19 and 30 years of age -- underwent some form of gender-affirming (GAS) surgery, researchers found.

About 4,500 of those procedures were performed in 2016. By 2019, that figure rose to a high of 13,000, a number that dipped only slightly in 2020.

A lot of scare pieces are being written about how many trans people there seem to be all of a sudden, but this is not about a skyrocketing number of people who all of a sudden are trans and all of a sudden are seeking these procedures, said Kellan Baker, a transgender health care policy expert.

Read more here:

Scientists decode Y chromosome

An international research team has achieved the first complete sequencing of the human Y chromosome, which is closely linked to male development.

This is the last of the human chromosomes to be fully sequenced, an effort that may shed light on everything from fertility to disease.

The work was led by the Telomere-to-Telomere (T2T) Consortium, which is a team of researchers funded by the National Human Genome Research Institute (NHGRI) in Bethesda, Md., part of the U.S. National Institutes of Health.

The new sequence fills in gaps across more than 50% of the Y chromosomes length.

The research, published Aug. 23 in Nature, uncovered important genomic features, including factors in sperm production.

Read more here:

COVID-19 recession resulted in "baby bump"

The COVID-19 recession resulted in an overall baby bump, or increase in births, among U.S.-born mothers, according to a study published online Aug. 15 in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.

Martha J. Bailey, Ph.D., from the University of California in Los Angeles, and colleagues examined childbearing responses to the COVID-19 pandemic using natality microdata covering U.S. births for 2015 to 2021 and California births from 2015 through February 2023.

The researchers found that reductions in births to foreign-born mothers accounted for 60 percent of the 2020 decline in U.S. fertility rates, although births to this group comprised only 22 percent of all U.S. births in 2019. The start of the decline was in January 2020.

Read more here:

Eye scans could spot Parkinson's in earliest stages

British researchers may have found a way to diagnose Parkinsons disease several years sooner.

Researchers at University College London and Moorfields Eye Hospital say that eye scans may be able to detect signs of Parkinsons up to seven years before diagnosis.

I continue to be amazed by what we can discover through eye scans. While we are not yet ready to predict whether an individual will develop Parkinsons, we hope that this method could soon become a pre-screening tool for people at risk of disease," said lead author Dr. Siegfried Wagner, of the UCL Institute of Ophthalmology and Moorfields Eye Hospital.

Read more here:

What is ice cream-induced "brain freeze"?

Anyone who has quickly slurped up a milkshake or chomped on a snow cone knows the sharp, brief pain of "brain freeze."

Its cause is a mystery, but its not harmful, according to experts at University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas.

It is very common and happens more frequently in children, said Dr. Ashley Agan, assistant professor of otolaryngologyhead and neck surgery.

Some studies suggest that patients who experience migraine headaches may be more susceptible to brain freeze headaches," Agan said in a center news release. "In general, it is a very quick pain that dissipates in minutes.

Inhaling freezing air too quickly or diving into cold water can also cause brain freeze.

Read more here:

More screen time for babies could slow development

Too much screen time can lead to developmental delays in babies, researchers say.

When 1-year-olds viewed screens for more than four hours a day, they had delays in communication and problem-solving skills when assessed at ages 2 and 4, according to a new study published Aug. 21 in JAMA Pediatrics.

They also had delays in fine motor and social skills at age 2, though that gap was gone by age 4, researchers.

It may not be the screens, but what they replace, a Yale expert said.

Face-to-face interaction between a parent and child gives babies information about language and meaning through facial expressions, words, tone of voice and physical feedback, said David Lewkowicz, a developmental psychologist at the Yale Child Study Center in New Haven, Conn.

Read more here:

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80% of pregnancy-related deaths are preventablehere's a closer look at maternal mortality in the US 80% of pregnancy-related deaths are preventablehere's a closer look at maternal mortality in the US Before the pandemic, the rate of pregnancy-related deaths approached 18 per 100,000 live births The overall national rate obscures significant racial disparities Causes of death demonstrate additional disparities
By AFP

AN FRANCISCO: Meta on Tuesday said it purged thousands of Facebook accounts that were part of a widespread online Chinese spam operation trying to covertly boost China and criticize the West.

The campaign, which became known as "Spamouflage", was active across more than 50 platforms and forums including Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, YouTube and X, formerly known as Twitter, according to a Meta threat report.

"We assess that it's the largest, though unsuccessful, and most prolific covert influence operation that we know of in the world today," said Meta Global Threat Intelligence Lead Ben Nimmo.

"And we've been able to link Spamouflage to individuals associated with Chinese law enforcement."

More that 7,700 Facebook accounts along with 15 Instagram accounts were jettisoned in what Meta described as the biggest ever single takedown action at the tech giant's platforms.

"For the first time we've been able to tie these many clusters together to confirm that they all go to one operation," Nimmo said.

The network typically posted praise for China and its Xinjiang province and criticisms of the United States, Western foreign policies, and critics of the Chinese government including journalists and researchers, the Meta report says.

The operation originated in China and its targets included Taiwan, the United States, Australia, Britain, Japan, and global Chinese-speaking audiences.

Facebook or Instagram accounts or pages identified as part of the "large and prolific covert influence operation" were taken down for violating Meta rules against coordinated deceptive behavior on its platforms.

Meta's team said the network seemed to garner scant engagement, with viewer comments tending to point out bogus claims.

Clusters of fake accounts were run from various parts of China, with the cadence of activity strongly suggesting groups working from an office with daily job schedules, according to Meta.

'Doppelganger'

Some tactics used in China were similar to those of a Russian online deception network exposed in 2019, which suggested the operations might be learning from one another, according to Nimmo.

Meta's threat report also provided analysis of the Russian influence campaign called Doppelganger, which was first disrupted by the security team a year ago.

The core of the operation was to mimic websites of mainstream news outlets in Europe and post bogus stories about Russia's war on Ukraine, then try to spread them online, said Meta head of security policy Nathaniel Gleicher.

Companies involved in the campaign were recently sanctioned by the European Union.

Meta said Germany, France and Ukraine remained the most targeted countries overall, but that the operation had added the United States and Israel to its list of targets.

This was done by spoofing the domains of major news outlets, including the Washington Post and Fox News.

Gleicher described Doppelganger, which is intended to weaken support of Ukraine, as the largest and most aggressively persistent influence operation from Russia that Meta has seen since 2017.

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AN FRANCISCO: Meta on Tuesday said it purged thousands of Facebook accounts that were part of a widespread online Chinese spam operation trying to covertly boost China and criticize the West. The campaign, which became known as "Spamouflage", was active across more than 50 platforms and forums including Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, YouTube and X, formerly known as Twitter, according to a Meta threat report. "We assess that it's the largest, though unsuccessful, and most prolific covert influence operation that we know of in the world today," said Meta Global Threat Intelligence Lead Ben Nimmo.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); "And we've been able to link Spamouflage to individuals associated with Chinese law enforcement." More that 7,700 Facebook accounts along with 15 Instagram accounts were jettisoned in what Meta described as the biggest ever single takedown action at the tech giant's platforms. "For the first time we've been able to tie these many clusters together to confirm that they all go to one operation," Nimmo said. The network typically posted praise for China and its Xinjiang province and criticisms of the United States, Western foreign policies, and critics of the Chinese government including journalists and researchers, the Meta report says. The operation originated in China and its targets included Taiwan, the United States, Australia, Britain, Japan, and global Chinese-speaking audiences. Facebook or Instagram accounts or pages identified as part of the "large and prolific covert influence operation" were taken down for violating Meta rules against coordinated deceptive behavior on its platforms. Meta's team said the network seemed to garner scant engagement, with viewer comments tending to point out bogus claims. Clusters of fake accounts were run from various parts of China, with the cadence of activity strongly suggesting groups working from an office with daily job schedules, according to Meta. 'Doppelganger' Some tactics used in China were similar to those of a Russian online deception network exposed in 2019, which suggested the operations might be learning from one another, according to Nimmo. Meta's threat report also provided analysis of the Russian influence campaign called Doppelganger, which was first disrupted by the security team a year ago. The core of the operation was to mimic websites of mainstream news outlets in Europe and post bogus stories about Russia's war on Ukraine, then try to spread them online, said Meta head of security policy Nathaniel Gleicher. Companies involved in the campaign were recently sanctioned by the European Union. Meta said Germany, France and Ukraine remained the most targeted countries overall, but that the operation had added the United States and Israel to its list of targets. This was done by spoofing the domains of major news outlets, including the Washington Post and Fox News. Gleicher described Doppelganger, which is intended to weaken support of Ukraine, as the largest and most aggressively persistent influence operation from Russia that Meta has seen since 2017. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp
Last spring, I (Mike) spoke with an Oregon State University engineering student at the Corvallis Farmers Market.

He expressed worry, sorrow and anger about our health care system. He said, Its tragic that so many of us cant afford basic medical care. I had a friend whose father couldnt afford his antipsychotic medications. He ended up killing himself.

This student concludes that our health care (non)system is unfair and cruel. Its bad enough for us to face the threat of an illness, but then to face financial disaster because of medical costs is inhumane.

Last November, voters approved an amendment to the Oregon Constitution, Measure 111. The amendment directs our state to ensure that every Oregonian has timely, high-quality, cost-effective, appropriate and affordable health care.

Health insurance companies have a ready solution: Make everyone buy private insurance and have taxpayers subsidize premiums for poor people. Weve tried that for 50 years.

This process has made health care unaffordable for a third of our population. People cant afford the high premiums, deductibles, copays and out-of-pocket costs. People go without health care  or go bankrupt paying for it.

Oregon does have Medicaid to help low-income people. But today, an individual loses Medicaid coverage if their paycheck exceeds $19,392 annually.

You may have a tempting entrepreneurial opportunity or promotion offer. But you cant afford private insurance. You decide to stay at an undesirable or low-paying job that might still offer you and your family insurance.

People in other countries are free to advance their careers without such worry.

There are selfish reasons to help others. People develop costly complications of untreated cancer, hypertension, diabetes, COVID-19 and mental illness. They suffer heart attacks, strokes, blindness, kidney failure, amputations and behavioral tragedies.

Hospitals raise their prices to cover the high unpaid costs of neglected illnesses. Insurance companies raise their premiums.

There are ethical and moral reasons to consider. Most major religions compel us to care for others. Jesus did not demand ID or copays before healing the sick.

Our profit-centered health care system brings moral injury and burnout to our medical providers. Soldiers experience moral injury as they process and justify their actions amid cruel conditions. Medical providers experience a similar torment as they work in a system that unfairly rations care. They are leaving their professions early.

A publicly funded and governed system ends perverse incentives inherent to profit-centered systems. Such a system creates a healthier environment for medical providers.

In June, the Oregon Legislature passed Senate Bill 1089. SB 1089 establishes a governance board to create a universal health care plan for Oregon. By September 2026, the board will present a comprehensive plan to the legislature. A resulting bill would likely come to voters as a ballot measure.

How can you help?

1. Thank Sen. Gelser Blouin, Rep. Dan Rayfield and Gov. Kotek for approving SB 1089. Legislators appreciate both gratitude and advice. To find their phone numbers and email addresses online, click on the Government tab at Oregon.gov.

Ask Gov. Kotek and your legislators to fully support the SB 1089 governance board process and promote publicly funded, single-risk-pool universal health care.

2. Talk with family, friends and acquaintances about health care. Health care is a popular topic.

3. Research:

a. Websites of Kaiser Family Foundation, the Commonwealth Fund, and the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development.

b. Advocacy websites such as Mid-Valley Health Care Advocates, Health Care for All Oregon, Puget Sound Advocates for Retirement Action, Physicians for a National Health Program, HealthCareNow!, Be a Hero, Public Citizen, and Social Security Works.
By Express News Service

MUMBAI: Reliance Retail Venture Ltd (RRVL), the retail arm of Reliance Industries Ltd (RIL), may attract more funds from global investors.

Mukesh Ambani, chairman and managing director of RIL told sharehoders on Monday that several big global strategic and financial investors have shown strong interest in Reliance Retail. Announcing plans about Jio Financial Services (JFS), he said that the recently demerged financial services arm will foray into insurance sector.

Several marquee global strategic and financial investors have shown strong interest in Reliance Retail. I will update you about our progress with them in due course, Mukesh Ambani said at the annual general meeting of RIL. He said that if it were listed on stock exchanges based on current valuation, the retail venture would be among the top four listed entities.

Referring to the recent acquisition of around 1 per cent stake by Qatar Investment Authority in RRVL, by investing `8,278 crore ($1 billion) at a valuation of $100 billion, Mukesh Ambani said its valuation has doubled in less than three years. Just for context, during our fund-raise in September 2020, the valuation of our Retail business stood at `4.28 lakh crore.

In less than three years, the valuation of Retail has almost doubled, notwithstanding the intervening Covid-19 pandemic. Based on this valuation, Reliance Retail, had it been listed, would have ranked among the top four companies in India and top ten retailers globally, he said. The company had raised funds from Silver Lake, KKR, Mubadala, Abu Dhabi Investment Authority, GIC, TPG, General Atlantic and Saudi Arabias Public Investment Fund at a valuation of around $57 billion at that time. RRVL, is aggressively expanding its business here by acquiring companies and getting franchise rights of leading international brands for the Indian market. JFS has been capitalised with a net worth of `1.2 lakh crore to create one of the worlds highest capitalised financial services platforms at inception.

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MUMBAI: Reliance Retail Venture Ltd (RRVL), the retail arm of Reliance Industries Ltd (RIL), may attract more funds from global investors. Mukesh Ambani, chairman and managing director of RIL told sharehoders on Monday that several big global strategic and financial investors have shown strong interest in Reliance Retail. Announcing plans about Jio Financial Services (JFS), he said that the recently demerged financial services arm will foray into insurance sector. Several marquee global strategic and financial investors have shown strong interest in Reliance Retail. I will update you about our progress with them in due course, Mukesh Ambani said at the annual general meeting of RIL. He said that if it were listed on stock exchanges based on current valuation, the retail venture would be among the top four listed entities.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); Referring to the recent acquisition of around 1 per cent stake by Qatar Investment Authority in RRVL, by investing `8,278 crore ($1 billion) at a valuation of $100 billion, Mukesh Ambani said its valuation has doubled in less than three years. Just for context, during our fund-raise in September 2020, the valuation of our Retail business stood at `4.28 lakh crore. In less than three years, the valuation of Retail has almost doubled, notwithstanding the intervening Covid-19 pandemic. Based on this valuation, Reliance Retail, had it been listed, would have ranked among the top four companies in India and top ten retailers globally, he said. The company had raised funds from Silver Lake, KKR, Mubadala, Abu Dhabi Investment Authority, GIC, TPG, General Atlantic and Saudi Arabias Public Investment Fund at a valuation of around $57 billion at that time. RRVL, is aggressively expanding its business here by acquiring companies and getting franchise rights of leading international brands for the Indian market. JFS has been capitalised with a net worth of `1.2 lakh crore to create one of the worlds highest capitalised financial services platforms at inception. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp
By AFP

ZURICH: As UBS prepares to post earnings this week, investors and employees are eagerly awaiting clues as to how Switzerland's largest bank is faring after swallowing its fallen rival Credit Suisse.

UBS is due to release its second-quarter income statement early Thursday, the first results presented since the mega-merger that rocked the Swiss banking scene last March.

Particularly keen attention will be paid to layoff plans and the fate of Credit Suisse's Swiss division, which have been at the heart of swirling rumours in recent months.

Swiss authorities strongarmed UBS into the $3.25 billion takeover on March 19 to prevent its closest domestic rival from going under -- which could have had catastrophic consequences for the global financial system.

But since the complex merger was completed in June, UBS has divulged little about its plans.

In the meantime, the number of questions about the repercussions of the deal has swelled.

Details wanted

"The list is long," Andreas Venditti, an analyst at Swiss investment manager Vontobel, told AFP.

In particular, he added, he will be looking for details on the retention of Credit Suisse staff and clients, and hopefully a timeline for the integration process.

Venditti also said there would be less focus this time around on UBS's net profit -- usually a key measure of how the bank is faring -- since it will be distorted by a string of exceptional items.

UBS has already indicated that the results should include an exceptional accounting gain of nearly $35 billion due to the difference between the purchase price and the recognised net assets of Credit Suisse.

They will also include less than a month of integrated Credit Suisse results, making any profit estimates difficult, he said.

While little has been said publicly about Credit Suisse's results, the SonntagsZeitung weekly newspaper cited insiders at the bank suggesting it suffered a loss of 3.5 billion Swiss francs ($4 billion) during the second quarter.

Analysts with the Zurich Cantonal Bank agreed that results from UBS's own operations were likely to "take a backseat", suggesting in a research note that most attention would be paid to "integration details".

It predicted that investors would be especially interested in the outflow of funds, as they search for indications of client confidence in the newly merged behemoth.

Real value?

Ipek Ozkardeskaya, an analyst at Swissquote Bank, agreed.

"We will be closely watching the revenue after the merger, the further integration plans, job cuts and what the bank will do with its Swiss banking unit," she said.

The results themselves, she said, "are expected to be strong of course after the merger".

"Yet investors will watch whether this forced marriage will create real value for the mega-UBS."

There has been particularly intense speculation around the fate of Credit Suisse's Swiss unit, with questions over whether it could continue to operate independently because of the significant overlap with UBS's business in Switzerland.

Last week, the Bloomberg financial news agency, citing unidentified sources, reported that UBS was leaning towards full integration of Credit Suisse's domestic bank, rather than spinning it off.

That suggests that significant job cuts could be expected.

A source close to the case said that a first wave of layoffs has already begun at Credit Suisse, while the Financial News website reported that 200 investment bankers had already been asked to leave.

At the same time, observers noted recent positive developments for UBS, including its settlement of lawsuits in the United States dating back to the 2008 global financial crisis.

The bank also announced this month that it would not need the billions in support offered by the Swiss government and the central bank to go through with the Credit Suisse takeover.

UBS seems to be sailing on "a summer breeze of good news rather than a storm", Deutsche Bank analyst Benjamin Goy said in a research note.

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ZURICH: As UBS prepares to post earnings this week, investors and employees are eagerly awaiting clues as to how Switzerland's largest bank is faring after swallowing its fallen rival Credit Suisse. UBS is due to release its second-quarter income statement early Thursday, the first results presented since the mega-merger that rocked the Swiss banking scene last March. Particularly keen attention will be paid to layoff plans and the fate of Credit Suisse's Swiss division, which have been at the heart of swirling rumours in recent months.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); Swiss authorities strongarmed UBS into the $3.25 billion takeover on March 19 to prevent its closest domestic rival from going under -- which could have had catastrophic consequences for the global financial system. But since the complex merger was completed in June, UBS has divulged little about its plans. In the meantime, the number of questions about the repercussions of the deal has swelled. Details wanted "The list is long," Andreas Venditti, an analyst at Swiss investment manager Vontobel, told AFP. In particular, he added, he will be looking for details on the retention of Credit Suisse staff and clients, and hopefully a timeline for the integration process. Venditti also said there would be less focus this time around on UBS's net profit -- usually a key measure of how the bank is faring -- since it will be distorted by a string of exceptional items. UBS has already indicated that the results should include an exceptional accounting gain of nearly $35 billion due to the difference between the purchase price and the recognised net assets of Credit Suisse. They will also include less than a month of integrated Credit Suisse results, making any profit estimates difficult, he said. While little has been said publicly about Credit Suisse's results, the SonntagsZeitung weekly newspaper cited insiders at the bank suggesting it suffered a loss of 3.5 billion Swiss francs ($4 billion) during the second quarter. Analysts with the Zurich Cantonal Bank agreed that results from UBS's own operations were likely to "take a backseat", suggesting in a research note that most attention would be paid to "integration details". It predicted that investors would be especially interested in the outflow of funds, as they search for indications of client confidence in the newly merged behemoth. Real value? Ipek Ozkardeskaya, an analyst at Swissquote Bank, agreed. "We will be closely watching the revenue after the merger, the further integration plans, job cuts and what the bank will do with its Swiss banking unit," she said. The results themselves, she said, "are expected to be strong of course after the merger". "Yet investors will watch whether this forced marriage will create real value for the mega-UBS." There has been particularly intense speculation around the fate of Credit Suisse's Swiss unit, with questions over whether it could continue to operate independently because of the significant overlap with UBS's business in Switzerland. Last week, the Bloomberg financial news agency, citing unidentified sources, reported that UBS was leaning towards full integration of Credit Suisse's domestic bank, rather than spinning it off. That suggests that significant job cuts could be expected. A source close to the case said that a first wave of layoffs has already begun at Credit Suisse, while the Financial News website reported that 200 investment bankers had already been asked to leave. At the same time, observers noted recent positive developments for UBS, including its settlement of lawsuits in the United States dating back to the 2008 global financial crisis. The bank also announced this month that it would not need the billions in support offered by the Swiss government and the central bank to go through with the Credit Suisse takeover. UBS seems to be sailing on "a summer breeze of good news rather than a storm", Deutsche Bank analyst Benjamin Goy said in a research note. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp
Ashish Srivastava By

Express News Service

NEW DELHI: A group of doctors turned out to be angels for a toddler who stopped breathing after suffering a heart attack mid-air on a flight en route to Delhi. The incident was reported on Sunday evening on Flight number UK-814 of Vistara Airlines.

Shortly after take-off from Bengaluru, an announcement was made by the crew before the aircraft was diverted to Nagpur. The distress call was about a two-year-old cyanotic (congenital heart condition) female child who wasnt breathing.

A group of five doctors from AIIMS-Delhi was also on board. They were returning from a conference. The child was returning to Delhi after heart surgery. The child was immediately examined. The doctors said her pulse and heartbeat were missing, her hands and feet were cold, and the child was not able to breathe. The Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) started right there. We were lucky to have trained a cardiologist and radiologist in our team. After initial assessment, we took the child and her mother at the back of the aircraft and drew a curtain so that panic does not ensue in the plane, a doctor said.

The doctors said that the biggest challenge was to provide treatment within the limited resources of the aeroplanes first-aid box. All the doctors took separate responsibilities. We used the aircrafts oxygen mask to open airways and used equipment from the first-aid box to install canulla to provide emergency medicine. Meanwhile, CPR was given constantly to revive her heart, the doctors said.

One of the doctors said the child had undergone open intracardiac repair surgery in Bengaluru three weeks ago for complex congenital heart disease (dextrocardia, situs inversus and total anomalous pulmonary venous connection). The efforts continued for 45 minutes and finally, the child started breathing. However, the trouble was far from over. The child suffered another heart attack and the whole procedure was done again.

Sensing the critical condition, the doctors requested the captain to detour the flight to the nearest airport. Meanwhile, an AED device, which was available onboard, was used to give her shock. The repeated attempts returned her heartbeat. The child was then shifted to a hospital after the flight landed. She underwent surgery and is reported to be in a stable condition now.

Distress call & revival

Sunday, 9 pm: A Bengaluru-Delhi Vistara flight takes off. Minutes later, a distress announcement was made to seek help from any doctor available on board. A group of five doctors from AIIMS-Delhi was onboard. They used the aircrafts oxygen mask to open airways and used equipment from the first-aid box to install canulla.

Kid back to life

Around 10 pm: The exercise was complicated by another cardiac arrest for which an AED (automated external defibrillator) was used, and the child was finally resuscitated, said a doctor. An AIIMS social media post identified the following doctors: Dr Navdeep Kaur, Dr Damandeep Singh, Dr Rishab Jain, Dr Oishika and Dr Avichala Taxak.



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NEW DELHI: A group of doctors turned out to be angels for a toddler who stopped breathing after suffering a heart attack mid-air on a flight en route to Delhi. The incident was reported on Sunday evening on Flight number UK-814 of Vistara Airlines. Shortly after take-off from Bengaluru, an announcement was made by the crew before the aircraft was diverted to Nagpur. The distress call was about a two-year-old cyanotic (congenital heart condition) female child who wasnt breathing. A group of five doctors from AIIMS-Delhi was also on board. They were returning from a conference. The child was returning to Delhi after heart surgery. The child was immediately examined. The doctors said her pulse and heartbeat were missing, her hands and feet were cold, and the child was not able to breathe. The Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) started right there. We were lucky to have trained a cardiologist and radiologist in our team. After initial assessment, we took the child and her mother at the back of the aircraft and drew a curtain so that panic does not ensue in the plane, a doctor said.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); The doctors said that the biggest challenge was to provide treatment within the limited resources of the aeroplanes first-aid box. All the doctors took separate responsibilities. We used the aircrafts oxygen mask to open airways and used equipment from the first-aid box to install canulla to provide emergency medicine. Meanwhile, CPR was given constantly to revive her heart, the doctors said. One of the doctors said the child had undergone open intracardiac repair surgery in Bengaluru three weeks ago for complex congenital heart disease (dextrocardia, situs inversus and total anomalous pulmonary venous connection). The efforts continued for 45 minutes and finally, the child started breathing. However, the trouble was far from over. The child suffered another heart attack and the whole procedure was done again. Sensing the critical condition, the doctors requested the captain to detour the flight to the nearest airport. Meanwhile, an AED device, which was available onboard, was used to give her shock. The repeated attempts returned her heartbeat. The child was then shifted to a hospital after the flight landed. She underwent surgery and is reported to be in a stable condition now. Distress call & revival Sunday, 9 pm: A Bengaluru-Delhi Vistara flight takes off. Minutes later, a distress announcement was made to seek help from any doctor available on board. A group of five doctors from AIIMS-Delhi was onboard. They used the aircrafts oxygen mask to open airways and used equipment from the first-aid box to install canulla. Kid back to life Around 10 pm: The exercise was complicated by another cardiac arrest for which an AED (automated external defibrillator) was used, and the child was finally resuscitated, said a doctor. An AIIMS social media post identified the following doctors: Dr Navdeep Kaur, Dr Damandeep Singh, Dr Rishab Jain, Dr Oishika and Dr Avichala Taxak. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp
By Online Desk

Following the successful soft landing of Chandrayaan 3 near the Moon's south pole, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is gearing up for the launch of its maiden solar mission 'Aditya L1'.

ISRO's Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) rocket spacecraft is set to take flight from Satish Dhawan Space Centre SHAR (SDSC SHAR), Sriharikota on September 2.

According to ISRO, the spacecraft will be placed in a halo orbit around the Lagrange point 1 (L1) of the Sun-Earth system, which is about 1.5 million km from the Earth to observe the solar activities and its effect on space weather in real-time. Here's all you need to know about India's sun mission.

What is Aditya L1?

Aditya L1 is the first Indian solar mission spacecraft designed and developed by ISRO and other Indian research institutes to study the sun. 'Aditya' stands for the Sun in Sanskrit while L1 refers to the Lagrange point 1 of the Sun-Earth system.

The spacecraft will be inserted into the halo orbit around the L1 point between the Earth and the Sun from where it can observe the Sun's activities without any occultation or eclipse.

According to ISRO, the spacecraft will carry payloads to observe the photosphere, chromosphere, and the outermost layers of the sun using electromagnetic and particle detectors. using the special vantage point of L1, four payloads will directly view the sun and the remaining three payloads will carry out in-situ studies of particles and fields and fields at the Lagrange point L1.

What is Lagrange point?

The Lagrange Points -- named after Italian-French mathematician Joseph-Louis Lagrange -- are positioned in space where the gravitational forces of the Sun and the Earth produce enhanced regions of attraction and repulsion.

They are also called points of equilibrium or libration points. There are a total of five Lagrange points denoted as L1, L2, L3, L4 and L5.

The Lagrange point (L1) is the position in space that is around 1.5 million kilometres from the Earth where the spacecraft will stay with reduced fuel consumption and remain in position.

According to ISRO, the gravitational pull of the two large bodies at the Lagrange point equals the necessary centripetal force required for a small object to move with them.

Illustration of Lagrange points of the Sun-Earth system (Photo | ISRO)

Trajectory of Aditya L1

As per ISRO, initially, the spacecraft will be placed in a Low Earth Orbit. Subsequently, the orbit will be made more elliptical and later the spacecraft will be launched towards the Lagrange point (L1) by using onboard propulsion.

As the spacecraft travels towards L1, it will exit the Earths gravitational Sphere of Influence (SOI). After exit from SOI, the cruise phase will start and subsequently, the spacecraft will be injected into a large halo orbit around L1.

The total travel time from launch to L1 is expected to take about four months.

Aditya-L1 trajectory from Earth to L1. (Photo | ISRO)

What are the objectives of the mission?

The ISRO has listed the following major science objectives of Aditya-L1 mission:

Study of Solar upper atmospheric (chromosphere and corona) dynamics.

Study of chromospheric and coronal heating, physics of the partially ionized plasma, initiation of the Coronal Mass Ejections (CME), and flares

Observe the in-situ particle and plasma environment providing data for the study of particle dynamics from the Sun.

Physics of solar corona and its heating mechanism

Diagnostics of the coronal and coronal loops plasma: Temperature, velocity and density.

Development, dynamics and origin of CMEs

Identify the sequence of processes that occur at multiple layers (chromosphere, base and extended corona) which eventually leads to solar eruptive events

Magnetic field topology and magnetic field measurements in the solar corona.

Drivers for space weather (origin, composition and dynamics of solar wind.

Why is Aditya L1 mission important?

Lying 93 million miles (150 million kilometres) away, the nearest and most dynamic star, the Sun constantly influence the Earth with its radiation, heat flow of particles and magnetic field.

The explosive solar phenomena could cause various disturbances near Earth's space environment disrupting various space and communication systems.

Therefore, a detailed study is of utmost importance to understand how exactly it affects the dynamics of Earth's atmosphere in shorter as well as longer terms.

This mission will help scientists understand the dynamic processes of the sun and can also solve some outstanding problems in solar physics and heliophysics (The physics of the sun and its connection with the solar system).

ALSO READ | After Moon mission, ISRO to launch Aditya-L1 to study Sun on September 2

Why study the sun from space?

The protective shield and atmosphere of earth the block harmful radiations. hence, the instruments from Earth will not be able to detect the harmful radiations and its solar studies could not be carried out. Thus, studying from space is the best option.

Again, to understand how the solar wind particles and magnetic field from the sun travel through interplanetary space, the measurements are to be taken from a point away from the influence of the Earth's magnetic field.

Dr Sankarasubramanian K(Photo | ISRO)

Who developed Aditya-L1 and what is the cost of the mission?

In 2022, the Indian Space Agency designated a senior solar scientist at the U R Rao Satellite Centre (URSC), Bengaluru, Dr Sankarasubramanian K as the Principal Scientist of the 'Aditya-L1' Mission. The Science Working Group has members from several institutes in India engaged in solar science research. In 2019, the government had sanctioned the equivalent of about USD 46 million (nearly Rs. 380 crore) for the Aditya-L1 mission. But, the total cost of the mission is yet to be revealed.

ALSO READ | After moon landing venture, ISRO's eye on launch of Aditya-L1 solar mission

Which other countries have launched solar missions?

So far, the US, Japan, China and the European Union have all launched probes to explore the Sun.

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)  the United States' space research agency  launched the Parker Solar Probe (PSP) on August 12, 2018.

Parker's spacecraft became the closest ever artificial object to the Sun when it plunged into the star's outer atmosphere or corona, during its eighth flyby on April 28, 2021, according to NASA.

NASA's solar probe is expected to reach within about 4 million miles (6.5 million kilometres) of the Sun's surface to trace the flow of energy, to study the heating of the solar corona, and to explore what accelerates the solar wind.

PSP will keep drawing ever closer to the sun and diving deeper into the corona until its grand finale orbit in 2025. The probe will complete 24 orbits of the sun over its seven-year lifespan and will fly seven times closer to the star than any other spacecraft. The spacecraft, about the size of a small car, travels directly through the Sun's atmosphere, making it the first and only mission to do so.

China was the most recent country to launch a solar experiment. The Advanced Space-based Solar Observatory (ASO-S) was successfully launched by China's National Space Science Center (NSSC) on October 8, 2022. The ASO-S spacecraft  nicknamed Kuafu-1, will use three instruments to study the sun's magnetic field, solar flares and coronal mass ejections (CMEs).

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Following the successful soft landing of Chandrayaan 3 near the Moon's south pole, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is gearing up for the launch of its maiden solar mission 'Aditya L1'. ISRO's Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) rocket spacecraft is set to take flight from Satish Dhawan Space Centre SHAR (SDSC SHAR), Sriharikota on September 2. According to ISRO, the spacecraft will be placed in a halo orbit around the Lagrange point 1 (L1) of the Sun-Earth system, which is about 1.5 million km from the Earth to observe the solar activities and its effect on space weather in real-time. Here's all you need to know about India's sun mission.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); What is Aditya L1? Aditya L1 is the first Indian solar mission spacecraft designed and developed by ISRO and other Indian research institutes to study the sun. 'Aditya' stands for the Sun in Sanskrit while L1 refers to the Lagrange point 1 of the Sun-Earth system. The spacecraft will be inserted into the halo orbit around the L1 point between the Earth and the Sun from where it can observe the Sun's activities without any occultation or eclipse. According to ISRO, the spacecraft will carry payloads to observe the photosphere, chromosphere, and the outermost layers of the sun using electromagnetic and particle detectors. using the special vantage point of L1, four payloads will directly view the sun and the remaining three payloads will carry out in-situ studies of particles and fields and fields at the Lagrange point L1. What is Lagrange point? The Lagrange Points -- named after Italian-French mathematician Joseph-Louis Lagrange -- are positioned in space where the gravitational forces of the Sun and the Earth produce enhanced regions of attraction and repulsion. They are also called points of equilibrium or libration points. There are a total of five Lagrange points denoted as L1, L2, L3, L4 and L5. The Lagrange point (L1) is the position in space that is around 1.5 million kilometres from the Earth where the spacecraft will stay with reduced fuel consumption and remain in position. According to ISRO, the gravitational pull of the two large bodies at the Lagrange point equals the necessary centripetal force required for a small object to move with them. Illustration of Lagrange points of the Sun-Earth system (Photo | ISRO) Trajectory of Aditya L1 As per ISRO, initially, the spacecraft will be placed in a Low Earth Orbit. Subsequently, the orbit will be made more elliptical and later the spacecraft will be launched towards the Lagrange point (L1) by using onboard propulsion. As the spacecraft travels towards L1, it will exit the Earths gravitational Sphere of Influence (SOI). After exit from SOI, the cruise phase will start and subsequently, the spacecraft will be injected into a large halo orbit around L1. The total travel time from launch to L1 is expected to take about four months. Aditya-L1 trajectory from Earth to L1. (Photo | ISRO) What are the objectives of the mission? The ISRO has listed the following major science objectives of Aditya-L1 mission: Study of Solar upper atmospheric (chromosphere and corona) dynamics. Study of chromospheric and coronal heating, physics of the partially ionized plasma, initiation of the Coronal Mass Ejections (CME), and flares Observe the in-situ particle and plasma environment providing data for the study of particle dynamics from the Sun. Physics of solar corona and its heating mechanism Diagnostics of the coronal and coronal loops plasma: Temperature, velocity and density. Development, dynamics and origin of CMEs Identify the sequence of processes that occur at multiple layers (chromosphere, base and extended corona) which eventually leads to solar eruptive events Magnetic field topology and magnetic field measurements in the solar corona. Drivers for space weather (origin, composition and dynamics of solar wind. Why is Aditya L1 mission important? Lying 93 million miles (150 million kilometres) away, the nearest and most dynamic star, the Sun constantly influence the Earth with its radiation, heat flow of particles and magnetic field. The explosive solar phenomena could cause various disturbances near Earth's space environment disrupting various space and communication systems. Therefore, a detailed study is of utmost importance to understand how exactly it affects the dynamics of Earth's atmosphere in shorter as well as longer terms. This mission will help scientists understand the dynamic processes of the sun and can also solve some outstanding problems in solar physics and heliophysics (The physics of the sun and its connection with the solar system). ALSO READ | After Moon mission, ISRO to launch Aditya-L1 to study Sun on September 2 Why study the sun from space? The protective shield and atmosphere of earth the block harmful radiations. hence, the instruments from Earth will not be able to detect the harmful radiations and its solar studies could not be carried out. Thus, studying from space is the best option. Again, to understand how the solar wind particles and magnetic field from the sun travel through interplanetary space, the measurements are to be taken from a point away from the influence of the Earth's magnetic field. Dr Sankarasubramanian K(Photo | ISRO)Who developed Aditya-L1 and what is the cost of the mission? In 2022, the Indian Space Agency designated a senior solar scientist at the U R Rao Satellite Centre (URSC), Bengaluru, Dr Sankarasubramanian K as the Principal Scientist of the 'Aditya-L1' Mission. The Science Working Group has members from several institutes in India engaged in solar science research. In 2019, the government had sanctioned the equivalent of about USD 46 million (nearly Rs. 380 crore) for the Aditya-L1 mission. But, the total cost of the mission is yet to be revealed. ALSO READ | After moon landing venture, ISRO's eye on launch of Aditya-L1 solar mission Which other countries have launched solar missions? So far, the US, Japan, China and the European Union have all launched probes to explore the Sun. The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)  the United States' space research agency  launched the Parker Solar Probe (PSP) on August 12, 2018. Parker's spacecraft became the closest ever artificial object to the Sun when it plunged into the star's outer atmosphere or corona, during its eighth flyby on April 28, 2021, according to NASA. NASA's solar probe is expected to reach within about 4 million miles (6.5 million kilometres) of the Sun's surface to trace the flow of energy, to study the heating of the solar corona, and to explore what accelerates the solar wind. PSP will keep drawing ever closer to the sun and diving deeper into the corona until its grand finale orbit in 2025. The probe will complete 24 orbits of the sun over its seven-year lifespan and will fly seven times closer to the star than any other spacecraft. The spacecraft, about the size of a small car, travels directly through the Sun's atmosphere, making it the first and only mission to do so. China was the most recent country to launch a solar experiment. The Advanced Space-based Solar Observatory (ASO-S) was successfully launched by China's National Space Science Center (NSSC) on October 8, 2022. The ASO-S spacecraft  nicknamed Kuafu-1, will use three instruments to study the sun's magnetic field, solar flares and coronal mass ejections (CMEs). Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp
Express News Service

NEW DELHI: THE medicos and medical associations have asked the National Medical Commission (NMC) to take action against private medical colleges that are not paying the PG students salaries on time. The demand came up after a recent NMC survey showed that of the over 7,000 PG students, over 2,000 were not receiving stipends. Most of them are studying in private medical colleges. However, its not only the non-payment of stipends, the issue is also a disparity in the amount given to those working in government hospitals compared to private medical colleges.

In a letter to the NMC Chairman, RTI Activist Dr K V Babu he sought his intervention in the matter, which has also been raised by the medical fraternity for the past few years. His letter came after the Postgraduate Medical Education Board of NMC asked the private medical colleges to ensure students receive the stipend. The NMC warned these self-financed/private medical colleges that strict action would be taken against them for non-compliance with the provisions of the PG Medical Education Regulations (PGMER), 2000, if any complaint is received in future. However, medicos said that just warning is not enough. The time has come to take action.

Kannur-based ophthalmologist Dr Babu said, The NHRC in its direction of March 2023 have clearly instructed the NMC to deregister the private medical colleges who are refusing to clear the arrears of interns from 1st July 2021. Applying the same yardstick, the PGMEB should have directed the self-financing medical colleges of all 19 states and two UTs to clear the arrears of PG medical students /their batches and submit the report to the PGMEB considering the report based on the survey, added Dr Babu.

Dr. Aviral Mathur, President of the Federation of Resident Doctors Association (FORDA) said, The time has come for the NMC to start penalising such private medical hospitals that defy the order. Just a directive is not enough. The stipend for PG students varies from one state medical hospital to another. It ranges from `45,000 to `95,000. However, private medical hospitals pay PG students even less than `25,000 and some pay them in instalments.

Mathur said though many states have reviewed the stipend paid to PG students who work round the clock, other states are still paying the old amount. Dr Rishi Raj Sinha, National Executive of FAIMA Doctors Association (FAIMA), said they will take up this issue nationally. We will soon be having a meeting on this with our core committee. We will be getting in touch with all the RDAs in the country, he said.

The NMC took up the survey in April this year on the directions of the NHRC. An Analysis of 7,901 responses was received from PG students from 213 colleges and 19 states and two UTs. It found that 2,110 students of private medical colleges were not receiving stipends.

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NEW DELHI: THE medicos and medical associations have asked the National Medical Commission (NMC) to take action against private medical colleges that are not paying the PG students salaries on time. The demand came up after a recent NMC survey showed that of the over 7,000 PG students, over 2,000 were not receiving stipends. Most of them are studying in private medical colleges. However, its not only the non-payment of stipends, the issue is also a disparity in the amount given to those working in government hospitals compared to private medical colleges. In a letter to the NMC Chairman, RTI Activist Dr K V Babu he sought his intervention in the matter, which has also been raised by the medical fraternity for the past few years. His letter came after the Postgraduate Medical Education Board of NMC asked the private medical colleges to ensure students receive the stipend. The NMC warned these self-financed/private medical colleges that strict action would be taken against them for non-compliance with the provisions of the PG Medical Education Regulations (PGMER), 2000, if any complaint is received in future. However, medicos said that just warning is not enough. The time has come to take action. Kannur-based ophthalmologist Dr Babu said, The NHRC in its direction of March 2023 have clearly instructed the NMC to deregister the private medical colleges who are refusing to clear the arrears of interns from 1st July 2021. Applying the same yardstick, the PGMEB should have directed the self-financing medical colleges of all 19 states and two UTs to clear the arrears of PG medical students /their batches and submit the report to the PGMEB considering the report based on the survey, added Dr Babu.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); Dr. Aviral Mathur, President of the Federation of Resident Doctors Association (FORDA) said, The time has come for the NMC to start penalising such private medical hospitals that defy the order. Just a directive is not enough. The stipend for PG students varies from one state medical hospital to another. It ranges from `45,000 to `95,000. However, private medical hospitals pay PG students even less than `25,000 and some pay them in instalments. Mathur said though many states have reviewed the stipend paid to PG students who work round the clock, other states are still paying the old amount. Dr Rishi Raj Sinha, National Executive of FAIMA Doctors Association (FAIMA), said they will take up this issue nationally. We will soon be having a meeting on this with our core committee. We will be getting in touch with all the RDAs in the country, he said. The NMC took up the survey in April this year on the directions of the NHRC. An Analysis of 7,901 responses was received from PG students from 213 colleges and 19 states and two UTs. It found that 2,110 students of private medical colleges were not receiving stipends. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp
Mayank Singh By

Express News Service

NEW DELHI: In continuation with its steps to strengthen intelligence and surveillance systems along the Line of Actual Control, the Indian Army on Monday signed a contract with local manufacturers for the supply of tethered drone systems and tank driving simulators.

The Indian Army in a message on X (f.k.a Twitter) confirmed the signing of a contract for the procurement of 130 tethered drones and 19 tank-driving simulators. The induction of the new equipment will enhance the overall operational preparedness of the Army, said the force.

Sources said the contract for the drone system for long-distance surveillance and intelligence gathering along the borders was signed with indigenous company Newspace Research Technologies Private Ltd. The contract for the other equipment was signed with Zen Technologies Limited, which will also involve skill development.

The Request for Technical and Commercial Proposals for the drones was issued by the armoured branch of the Integrated Headquarters of the Ministry of Defence in January this year, under the fast-track procedure.

As per the RFI, these systems are sought to fly not less than six hours in tethered mode and around 45 minutes in un-tethered mode. These drones are connected to a ground-based tethered system with a flexible wire or cable for power and communications and can provide surveillance of beyond-line-of-sight targets for a prolonged period.

The Fast Track Procedure, as per the Defence Acquisition Procedure, involves cases where expeditious procurement for urgent operational requirements foreseen as imminent or for situations in which a crisis emerges without a prior warning, or where undue/unforeseen delay due to reasons beyond the control of the acquisition setup, are seen to be impacting the capacity of the Forces, may be recommended by Service Headquarters for pursuance of FTP.

Tethered drone systems are ideal for extended surveillance and security overwatch missions such as border control. Traditional drones have a greater range allowing them to perform missions the sensor cannot capture from a distance.

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NEW DELHI: In continuation with its steps to strengthen intelligence and surveillance systems along the Line of Actual Control, the Indian Army on Monday signed a contract with local manufacturers for the supply of tethered drone systems and tank driving simulators. The Indian Army in a message on X (f.k.a Twitter) confirmed the signing of a contract for the procurement of 130 tethered drones and 19 tank-driving simulators. The induction of the new equipment will enhance the overall operational preparedness of the Army, said the force. Sources said the contract for the drone system for long-distance surveillance and intelligence gathering along the borders was signed with indigenous company Newspace Research Technologies Private Ltd. The contract for the other equipment was signed with Zen Technologies Limited, which will also involve skill development.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); The Request for Technical and Commercial Proposals for the drones was issued by the armoured branch of the Integrated Headquarters of the Ministry of Defence in January this year, under the fast-track procedure. As per the RFI, these systems are sought to fly not less than six hours in tethered mode and around 45 minutes in un-tethered mode. These drones are connected to a ground-based tethered system with a flexible wire or cable for power and communications and can provide surveillance of beyond-line-of-sight targets for a prolonged period. The Fast Track Procedure, as per the Defence Acquisition Procedure, involves cases where expeditious procurement for urgent operational requirements foreseen as imminent or for situations in which a crisis emerges without a prior warning, or where undue/unforeseen delay due to reasons beyond the control of the acquisition setup, are seen to be impacting the capacity of the Forces, may be recommended by Service Headquarters for pursuance of FTP. Tethered drone systems are ideal for extended surveillance and security overwatch missions such as border control. Traditional drones have a greater range allowing them to perform missions the sensor cannot capture from a distance. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp
Shruti Kakkar By

Express News Service

NEW DELHI: Introduction of Article 35A of the Constitution, which empowered the J&K legislature to define permanent residents, resulted in taking away fundamental rights of non-residents, the Supreme Court remarked on Monday as it continued hearing a challenge to abrogation of Article 370.

Stressing the three fundamental rights of employment, settlement in the state and acquiring immovable property which non-residents were denuded of, CJI DY Chandrachud also said that Article 35A also took away the power of judicial review.

See the 1954 order. It applied entirety of Part III (fundamental rights) and so Article 16, 19 applied to J&K. Now, you bring in Article 35A which creates an exception under 3 areas: Employment under state govt, acquisition of immovable properties, and settlement in the state. Though Part III is applicable, when you introduce A 35A, you take away 3 fundamental rights- Article 16(1), the right to acquire immovable property which was then a fundamental right under 19(1)(f), Article 31, & settlement in the state

which was a fundamental right under 19(1)(e), the bench said.

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for the Centre, said there is enough material to show that the Constitution of Jammu and Kashmir is subordinate to the Constitution of India and the constituent assembly of Jammu and Kashmir was in reality a legislative assembly making laws.

The apex court also prima facie agreed with the Centre's submission on pleas challenging the abrogation of Article 370 that the Constitution of Jammu and Kashmir is "subordinate" to the Indian Constitution, which is on a higher pedestal.

The bench, however, did not seem to agree with the plea that the Constituent Assembly of the erstwhile state, which was disbanded in 1957, was in reality a legislative assembly.

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NEW DELHI: Introduction of Article 35A of the Constitution, which empowered the J&K legislature to define permanent residents, resulted in taking away fundamental rights of non-residents, the Supreme Court remarked on Monday as it continued hearing a challenge to abrogation of Article 370. Stressing the three fundamental rights of employment, settlement in the state and acquiring immovable property which non-residents were denuded of, CJI DY Chandrachud also said that Article 35A also took away the power of judicial review. See the 1954 order. It applied entirety of Part III (fundamental rights) and so Article 16, 19 applied to J&K. Now, you bring in Article 35A which creates an exception under 3 areas: Employment under state govt, acquisition of immovable properties, and settlement in the state. Though Part III is applicable, when you introduce A 35A, you take away 3 fundamental rights- Article 16(1), the right to acquire immovable property which was then a fundamental right under 19(1)(f), Article 31, & settlement in the state which was a fundamental right under 19(1)(e), the bench said. googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for the Centre, said there is enough material to show that the Constitution of Jammu and Kashmir is subordinate to the Constitution of India and the constituent assembly of Jammu and Kashmir was in reality a legislative assembly making laws. The apex court also prima facie agreed with the Centre's submission on pleas challenging the abrogation of Article 370 that the Constitution of Jammu and Kashmir is "subordinate" to the Indian Constitution, which is on a higher pedestal. The bench, however, did not seem to agree with the plea that the Constituent Assembly of the erstwhile state, which was disbanded in 1957, was in reality a legislative assembly. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp
By Online Desk

After quietly withdrawing the subsidy on LPG or cooking gas several years ago, the government has decided to reinstate the same at the rate of Rs 200 per cylinder.

The decision to restore the subsidy for some has been taken by the Union Cabinet, and will apply to all 33 crore LPG customers in the country.

The total financial implication will be around Rs 10,000 crore per year, and this year, it will cost Rs 7680 crore.

"The price of cooking gas cylinder has been brought down by Rs 200 for all consumers," information and broadcasting minister Anurag Thakur said, detailing the decisions of the Union Cabinet today.

Thakur refused to answer whether the subsidy would be sent via bank accounts or a flat discount will be given on the price of the cylinder.

In addition, he also said the government will also give another 75 lakh more Ujjwala gas connections to be given at zero cost.

The government had stopped sending LPG subsidy to consumers' bank account around 2-3 years ago, but never confirmed the move. Ujjwala consumers will get a total subsidy of Rs 400 per cylinder.

Asked how much it will cost the tax payer, Thakur said the numbers will be revealed by the relevant ministry.

The restoration move comes as the current administration at the center seeks to return to power in general elections to be held in around seven months.

As late as last month, it maintained that it was sending subsidies to consumers' bank accounts.

However, most consumers have complained that they have not been getting the subsidy amount for years now.

Last month, the government was asked the reason why LPG cyclinder prices are not being cut even though crude oil prices have come down considerably after hitting a peak of around $118 per barrel in May last year. For the past seven months, crude prices have been in the $60-$80 range.

In contrast, the price of one LPG cylinder in Chennai has been either static or rising for the past one year. For example, they were stable at Rs 1,068.50 until February, when they were increased to Rs 1,118.50, and have been at that level since.

"The subsidy, as admissible, is credited to the bank accounts of eligible beneficiaries," said Hardeep Singh Puri, minister of petroleum and natural gas, in the Rajya Sabha last month.

In Delhi, the price of one 14.2 kg cylinder for domestic use was at Rs 581 rupees in May 2020, and have since then climbed consistently to Rs 1,103 by March this year. There has been no price cut for LPG despite the sharp fall seen in the price of crude oil.

This is despite the fact that the oil marketing companies got Rs 22,000 crore of taxpayer money to compensate them for 'under-recoveries' made during the period of a spike in crude oil prices in 2022.

Puri said oil marketing companies were forced to increase the price of LPG cylinders as the price of Saudi propane -- the international benchmark price for LPG -- went from $415 in FY21 to $712 in FY23.

However, prices have not fallen in sync with international prices since then.

In June this year, for example, Saudi Aramco cut the price of propane to $450 per tonne. The current price of propane in Saudi for August delivery is $475. LPG prices, meanwhile have remained at their highest levels since March this year (see chart).

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After quietly withdrawing the subsidy on LPG or cooking gas several years ago, the government has decided to reinstate the same at the rate of Rs 200 per cylinder. The decision to restore the subsidy for some has been taken by the Union Cabinet, and will apply to all 33 crore LPG customers in the country. The total financial implication will be around Rs 10,000 crore per year, and this year, it will cost Rs 7680 crore.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); "The price of cooking gas cylinder has been brought down by Rs 200 for all consumers," information and broadcasting minister Anurag Thakur said, detailing the decisions of the Union Cabinet today. Thakur refused to answer whether the subsidy would be sent via bank accounts or a flat discount will be given on the price of the cylinder. In addition, he also said the government will also give another 75 lakh more Ujjwala gas connections to be given at zero cost. The government had stopped sending LPG subsidy to consumers' bank account around 2-3 years ago, but never confirmed the move. Ujjwala consumers will get a total subsidy of Rs 400 per cylinder. Asked how much it will cost the tax payer, Thakur said the numbers will be revealed by the relevant ministry. The restoration move comes as the current administration at the center seeks to return to power in general elections to be held in around seven months. As late as last month, it maintained that it was sending subsidies to consumers' bank accounts. However, most consumers have complained that they have not been getting the subsidy amount for years now. Last month, the government was asked the reason why LPG cyclinder prices are not being cut even though crude oil prices have come down considerably after hitting a peak of around $118 per barrel in May last year. For the past seven months, crude prices have been in the $60-$80 range. In contrast, the price of one LPG cylinder in Chennai has been either static or rising for the past one year. For example, they were stable at Rs 1,068.50 until February, when they were increased to Rs 1,118.50, and have been at that level since. "The subsidy, as admissible, is credited to the bank accounts of eligible beneficiaries," said Hardeep Singh Puri, minister of petroleum and natural gas, in the Rajya Sabha last month. In Delhi, the price of one 14.2 kg cylinder for domestic use was at Rs 581 rupees in May 2020, and have since then climbed consistently to Rs 1,103 by March this year. There has been no price cut for LPG despite the sharp fall seen in the price of crude oil. This is despite the fact that the oil marketing companies got Rs 22,000 crore of taxpayer money to compensate them for 'under-recoveries' made during the period of a spike in crude oil prices in 2022. Puri said oil marketing companies were forced to increase the price of LPG cylinders as the price of Saudi propane -- the international benchmark price for LPG -- went from $415 in FY21 to $712 in FY23. However, prices have not fallen in sync with international prices since then. In June this year, for example, Saudi Aramco cut the price of propane to $450 per tonne. The current price of propane in Saudi for August delivery is $475. LPG prices, meanwhile have remained at their highest levels since March this year (see chart). Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp
Namita Bajpai By

Express News Service

LUCKNOW: A division bench of Allahabad High Court, headed by Chief Justice Pritinker Diwaker, on Monday adjourned the hearing of a bunch of petitions challenging the maintainability of the title suit seeking restoration of temple in place of Gyanvapi mosque till September 12. The hearing in the matter had been already concluded by the bench of Justice Prakash Padia on July 23, and had reserved the order to be delivered on Monday.

Earlier, the cases related to Kashi Vishwanath-Gyanvapi mosque title suit were transferred to a different bench, headed by CJ Diwaker on August 25, just a month after the single judge bench of Justice Padia concluded the hearing and had reserved the order to be delivered on August 28. In fact, Justice Padia had been hearing the matter since August 2021.

On Monday, Anjuman Intezamia Masajid (AIM), for the mosque management committee, objected to the transfer of the cases to the bench of CJ a month after the conclusion of the hearing in the matter. The hearing in the matter was completed. The order was reserved and it had to be delivered today (Monday), said the AIM lawyer and underlined Amar Singh Vs State of UP, where a full bench of the High Court had ruled that a matter partly heard by a bench had to be heard by that very bench itself.

On the contrary, the opposite sides (Hindu side) lawyer, Advocate Puneet Gupta said that it was the prerogative of the CJ to withdraw the case from a bench, where even after exhaustive arguments, the judgement was not delivered. He said it was the settled law that the CJ was the master of roaster and that he could decide which bench would hear what matters.

However, the CJ Diwaker said he will decide after the AIM submissions. The matter pending in the court includes a challenge to maintainability of a suit filed before a Varanasi Court, seeking restoration of a temple at the site where the Gyanvapi mosque exists.

The application was filed in a suit filed by the Ancient Idol Of Swayambhu Lord Vishweshwar And 5 Others in the year 1991 claiming the restoration of the land on which the Gyanvapi Mosque stands to Hindus. The Plaintiffs, in the suit, sought a declaration that the land on which the Mosque is built on the ruins of the Kashi Vishwanath temple. The suit has been challenged before the HC.

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LUCKNOW: A division bench of Allahabad High Court, headed by Chief Justice Pritinker Diwaker, on Monday adjourned the hearing of a bunch of petitions challenging the maintainability of the title suit seeking restoration of temple in place of Gyanvapi mosque till September 12. The hearing in the matter had been already concluded by the bench of Justice Prakash Padia on July 23, and had reserved the order to be delivered on Monday. Earlier, the cases related to Kashi Vishwanath-Gyanvapi mosque title suit were transferred to a different bench, headed by CJ Diwaker on August 25, just a month after the single judge bench of Justice Padia concluded the hearing and had reserved the order to be delivered on August 28. In fact, Justice Padia had been hearing the matter since August 2021. On Monday, Anjuman Intezamia Masajid (AIM), for the mosque management committee, objected to the transfer of the cases to the bench of CJ a month after the conclusion of the hearing in the matter. The hearing in the matter was completed. The order was reserved and it had to be delivered today (Monday), said the AIM lawyer and underlined Amar Singh Vs State of UP, where a full bench of the High Court had ruled that a matter partly heard by a bench had to be heard by that very bench itself.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); On the contrary, the opposite sides (Hindu side) lawyer, Advocate Puneet Gupta said that it was the prerogative of the CJ to withdraw the case from a bench, where even after exhaustive arguments, the judgement was not delivered. He said it was the settled law that the CJ was the master of roaster and that he could decide which bench would hear what matters. However, the CJ Diwaker said he will decide after the AIM submissions. The matter pending in the court includes a challenge to maintainability of a suit filed before a Varanasi Court, seeking restoration of a temple at the site where the Gyanvapi mosque exists. The application was filed in a suit filed by the Ancient Idol Of Swayambhu Lord Vishweshwar And 5 Others in the year 1991 claiming the restoration of the land on which the Gyanvapi Mosque stands to Hindus. The Plaintiffs, in the suit, sought a declaration that the land on which the Mosque is built on the ruins of the Kashi Vishwanath temple. The suit has been challenged before the HC. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp
Harpreet Bajwa By

Express News Service

CHANDIGARH: Amid Vishwa Hindu Parishads belligerence, the Haryana government on Monday bought peace by facilitating a symbolic shobha yatra at Nuh that was wracked by communal riots on July 31 last.

The administration allowed about 60 people, including 15 seers and a few leaders of right-wing groups, to offer prayers and jalabhishek (pouring water on the Shivling) at a Shiv temple in the Nalhar area of Nuh.

Mahamandaleshwar Swami Dharm Dev and Swami Parmanand were among those allowed to visit the temple. After prayers at Nalhar, the group of 60, accompanied by some locals, went to the Jhir temple at Firozpur Jhirka.

Nuh district turned into a fortress following a call given by the Sarv Jatiya Hindu Mahapanchayat to take out the shobha yatra to mark the last Monday of the holy month of Shravan.

A few right-wing leaders were placed under house arrest in Gurugram. Also, several Hindu leaders and workers were put on notice not to participate in the yatra.

The Nuh administration had earlier denied permission for the yatra. The police had set up five major checkpoints from the Delhi-Gurugram border till Nuh.

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CHANDIGARH: Amid Vishwa Hindu Parishads belligerence, the Haryana government on Monday bought peace by facilitating a symbolic shobha yatra at Nuh that was wracked by communal riots on July 31 last. The administration allowed about 60 people, including 15 seers and a few leaders of right-wing groups, to offer prayers and jalabhishek (pouring water on the Shivling) at a Shiv temple in the Nalhar area of Nuh. Mahamandaleshwar Swami Dharm Dev and Swami Parmanand were among those allowed to visit the temple. After prayers at Nalhar, the group of 60, accompanied by some locals, went to the Jhir temple at Firozpur Jhirka.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); Nuh district turned into a fortress following a call given by the Sarv Jatiya Hindu Mahapanchayat to take out the shobha yatra to mark the last Monday of the holy month of Shravan. A few right-wing leaders were placed under house arrest in Gurugram. Also, several Hindu leaders and workers were put on notice not to participate in the yatra. The Nuh administration had earlier denied permission for the yatra. The police had set up five major checkpoints from the Delhi-Gurugram border till Nuh. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp
Yeshi Seli By

Express News Service

NEW DELHI: India has lodged a strong protest with China over a map showing Arunachal Pradesh and Aksai Chin as Chinese territory.

"We have today lodged a strong protest through diplomatic channels with the Chinese side on the so-called 2023 standard map of China that lays claim to Indias territory," said Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Arindam Bagchi.

India further said that it rejected such claims as they had no basis.

"Such steps by the Chinese side only complicate the resolution of the boundary question," Bagchi added.

China had unveiled an updated standard map on Monday that incorporated territories including Aksai Chin, Arunachal Pradesh and even Taiwan and disputed areas of the South China Sea as its own.

"It's an old habit of theirs. These (territories) are very much part of India. This government is very clear what our territories are. Making absurd claims doesn't make others' territories yours," said External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar in Delhi on Tuesday.

The map's release comes a few days after PM Modi met Chinese President Xi Jinping during the BRICS Summit in Johannesburg. Though the two leaders met and exchanged courtesies, they also spoke about a resolution of the pending border issue.

India has always reaffirmed that Arunachal Pradesh was, is and will always remain its integral and inalienable part.

In April this year, China had renamed 11 places in Arunachal Pradesh, referring them as Zangnan, the southern part of Tibet.

Meanwhile, with just 10 days left for the G20 Summit in Delhi, this map comes as an irritant. India is still awaiting confirmation on Chinese President Xi Jinping's in-person participation in the Summit.

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NEW DELHI: India has lodged a strong protest with China over a map showing Arunachal Pradesh and Aksai Chin as Chinese territory. "We have today lodged a strong protest through diplomatic channels with the Chinese side on the so-called 2023 standard map of China that lays claim to Indias territory," said Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Arindam Bagchi. India further said that it rejected such claims as they had no basis.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); "Such steps by the Chinese side only complicate the resolution of the boundary question," Bagchi added. China had unveiled an updated standard map on Monday that incorporated territories including Aksai Chin, Arunachal Pradesh and even Taiwan and disputed areas of the South China Sea as its own. "It's an old habit of theirs. These (territories) are very much part of India. This government is very clear what our territories are. Making absurd claims doesn't make others' territories yours," said External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar in Delhi on Tuesday. The map's release comes a few days after PM Modi met Chinese President Xi Jinping during the BRICS Summit in Johannesburg. Though the two leaders met and exchanged courtesies, they also spoke about a resolution of the pending border issue. India has always reaffirmed that Arunachal Pradesh was, is and will always remain its integral and inalienable part. In April this year, China had renamed 11 places in Arunachal Pradesh, referring them as Zangnan, the southern part of Tibet. Meanwhile, with just 10 days left for the G20 Summit in Delhi, this map comes as an irritant. India is still awaiting confirmation on Chinese President Xi Jinping's in-person participation in the Summit. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp
By Express News Service

The INDIA bloc will focus on state-specific tie-ups among allies in order to deny the BJP the advantage of a vote split in the 2024 general election. The opposition parties have come together to preserve the character of the Republic of India, CPI(M) general secretary Sitaram Yechury tells Parvez Sultan.

Excerpts from the conversation...



The next meeting of INDIA is due on August 31. There are reports about the appointment of a convener of the coalition, setting up a secretariat and drafting a common minimum programme. What do you think is the road ahead for the alliance?

The alliance is generating confidence among people. There are issues on which all opposition parties are together. These include basic things such as preserving the character of our republic  we have a secular democratic republic. The rights guaranteed by the Constitution have to be protected. That is our basic objective. The common minimum programme normally comes only after the government is formed. It is never drafted before the election. But, surely, there are some common issues that we will take to the people during our campaign. The secretariat or the other way of coordination will be discussed in Mumbai. It is not necessary to have a secretariat, convener or anything. We will discuss how to go about the coordination among alliance partners.

You have been talking about state-specific seat-sharing for the Lok Sabha elections. Please elaborate

The idea of seat-sharing is to minimise the advantage the BJP gets by the division in opposition votes. In Kerala, we are in a direct fight with the Congress. The BJP doesnt get a single MLA elected there, forget about an MP. So the Left and the Congress fighting against each other does not give any advantage to the BJP, which is completely out of the picture. In West Bengal, the Left, Congress and the other secular forces fighting against the BJP and TMC (Trinamool Congress) weaken the BJP. Suppose, all of us get together against the BJP in West Bengal, all the anti-incumbency advantage goes to the BJP. A triangular fight in West Bengal will minimise the BJP advantage. So we will have to look at all the states differently.

There are deep divisions between some of the alliance partners. Do you think all the parties will be able to work together?

I think the people will keep us together. It is the peoples pressure that has brought us all together. The Emergency was defeated because of the support of the people. The Vajpayee government was defeated for the same reason. The same will happen to this government. And it will be very difficult for any opposition party to betray the wishes of the people.

The CPM strength in Parliament has come down significantly. What was the reason for the decline and what are you doing to shore up the numbers?

The reasons are plenty. There was a huge gang up -- from right to left -- against us. But this is one factor. There are also some lapses on our part. The result is that our electoral support has significantly declined. But at the same time, our ability to set an agenda before the country has actually strengthened the setting of an agenda through popular struggles. The only issue on which PM Modi had to back off was the farmers struggle against the three bills. The bills were withdrawn the only thing he (PM) was forced to withdraw was through the struggles. The pace of privatisation of the public sector units is getting retarded only because of the struggle of the working class through our movement. So the role of the Left is to set the national agenda through popular struggles. But electorally, what you are saying is right. That has to be corrected and we are working on it.

You recently visited Manipur. How have things come to such a pass that one section is demanding a separate state?

The situation is terrible. I have never seen things like this in my life anywhere in the country. Virtually, it is two countries in one state. We went to both areas  the Meitei and Kuki sides. If you have to go into the Kuki area from the Meitei side, no Meitei is allowed with you. We had to leave behind our own party secretary, a Meitei, when we visited the Kuki areas. The same thing happens when you enter the Meitei area. There are two separate regions. It is virtually a war-like situation. When you cross over from one side to the other, there are three levels of barricading, manned by locals, not by security forces.

There is a sort of dehumanisation of people and society happening in the state. The double-engine sarkar (the government led by the BJP both at the Centre and in the state) has a big role in creating this ethnic conflict. It supported Kuki militant groups in the elections. They (Kuki) themselves have come on record saying they had a deal with the Assam chief minister and the northeast BJP in-charge. Kuki militants have claimed that N Biren Singh has become chief minister of Manipur because

of their support to the BJP.

Out of 10 Kuki MLAs, seven are from BJP and two are ministers. However, the chief minister says all Kukis are illegal immigrants from Myanmar. The home minister repeated it in the Lok Sabha. So, the Kukis are now saying you seek support from us to win elections and then call us illegal migrants and narco-terrorists.

Now, the Nagas have also entered the scene. They say that this violence is happening in the land of Nagas. The Naga Accord has a lot to do with land in Manipur. If the fire is not doused, things can go beyond their (government) control. Mizoram is also affected. If the government is not able to quickly handle the issue, it will spill over to the entire northeast. The conditions in relief camps are appalling -- be it food or sanitation. Children are being born there with no immunisation programme and no nutritious food.

What are the immediate steps the government should for a permanent solution to the problem?

There are 60,000 Central security personnel there, but they dont have directions about what needs to be done. Had the government given clear directions, much of the violence could have been contained. The government should send an all-party delegation under the leadership of the home minister to meet every section of the people of Manipur, listen to their grievances and try to work out a solution as per their wishes. We have been saying this since day one. I have been part of such a delegation thrice to Kashmir with Shivraj Patil, P Chidambaram and Rajnath Singh. On all three occasions, we tried to move towards some solutions. Why are they (the government) not doing the same now?

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The INDIA bloc will focus on state-specific tie-ups among allies in order to deny the BJP the advantage of a vote split in the 2024 general election. The opposition parties have come together to preserve the character of the Republic of India, CPI(M) general secretary Sitaram Yechury tells Parvez Sultan. Excerpts from the conversation... The next meeting of INDIA is due on August 31. There are reports about the appointment of a convener of the coalition, setting up a secretariat and drafting a common minimum programme. What do you think is the road ahead for the alliance? The alliance is generating confidence among people. There are issues on which all opposition parties are together. These include basic things such as preserving the character of our republic  we have a secular democratic republic. The rights guaranteed by the Constitution have to be protected. That is our basic objective. The common minimum programme normally comes only after the government is formed. It is never drafted before the election. But, surely, there are some common issues that we will take to the people during our campaign. The secretariat or the other way of coordination will be discussed in Mumbai. It is not necessary to have a secretariat, convener or anything. We will discuss how to go about the coordination among alliance partners.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); You have been talking about state-specific seat-sharing for the Lok Sabha elections. Please elaborate The idea of seat-sharing is to minimise the advantage the BJP gets by the division in opposition votes. In Kerala, we are in a direct fight with the Congress. The BJP doesnt get a single MLA elected there, forget about an MP. So the Left and the Congress fighting against each other does not give any advantage to the BJP, which is completely out of the picture. In West Bengal, the Left, Congress and the other secular forces fighting against the BJP and TMC (Trinamool Congress) weaken the BJP. Suppose, all of us get together against the BJP in West Bengal, all the anti-incumbency advantage goes to the BJP. A triangular fight in West Bengal will minimise the BJP advantage. So we will have to look at all the states differently. There are deep divisions between some of the alliance partners. Do you think all the parties will be able to work together? I think the people will keep us together. It is the peoples pressure that has brought us all together. The Emergency was defeated because of the support of the people. The Vajpayee government was defeated for the same reason. The same will happen to this government. And it will be very difficult for any opposition party to betray the wishes of the people. The CPM strength in Parliament has come down significantly. What was the reason for the decline and what are you doing to shore up the numbers? The reasons are plenty. There was a huge gang up -- from right to left -- against us. But this is one factor. There are also some lapses on our part. The result is that our electoral support has significantly declined. But at the same time, our ability to set an agenda before the country has actually strengthened the setting of an agenda through popular struggles. The only issue on which PM Modi had to back off was the farmers struggle against the three bills. The bills were withdrawn the only thing he (PM) was forced to withdraw was through the struggles. The pace of privatisation of the public sector units is getting retarded only because of the struggle of the working class through our movement. So the role of the Left is to set the national agenda through popular struggles. But electorally, what you are saying is right. That has to be corrected and we are working on it. You recently visited Manipur. How have things come to such a pass that one section is demanding a separate state? The situation is terrible. I have never seen things like this in my life anywhere in the country. Virtually, it is two countries in one state. We went to both areas  the Meitei and Kuki sides. If you have to go into the Kuki area from the Meitei side, no Meitei is allowed with you. We had to leave behind our own party secretary, a Meitei, when we visited the Kuki areas. The same thing happens when you enter the Meitei area. There are two separate regions. It is virtually a war-like situation. When you cross over from one side to the other, there are three levels of barricading, manned by locals, not by security forces. There is a sort of dehumanisation of people and society happening in the state. The double-engine sarkar (the government led by the BJP both at the Centre and in the state) has a big role in creating this ethnic conflict. It supported Kuki militant groups in the elections. They (Kuki) themselves have come on record saying they had a deal with the Assam chief minister and the northeast BJP in-charge. Kuki militants have claimed that N Biren Singh has become chief minister of Manipur because of their support to the BJP. Out of 10 Kuki MLAs, seven are from BJP and two are ministers. However, the chief minister says all Kukis are illegal immigrants from Myanmar. The home minister repeated it in the Lok Sabha. So, the Kukis are now saying you seek support from us to win elections and then call us illegal migrants and narco-terrorists. Now, the Nagas have also entered the scene. They say that this violence is happening in the land of Nagas. The Naga Accord has a lot to do with land in Manipur. If the fire is not doused, things can go beyond their (government) control. Mizoram is also affected. If the government is not able to quickly handle the issue, it will spill over to the entire northeast. The conditions in relief camps are appalling -- be it food or sanitation. Children are being born there with no immunisation programme and no nutritious food. What are the immediate steps the government should for a permanent solution to the problem? There are 60,000 Central security personnel there, but they dont have directions about what needs to be done. Had the government given clear directions, much of the violence could have been contained. The government should send an all-party delegation under the leadership of the home minister to meet every section of the people of Manipur, listen to their grievances and try to work out a solution as per their wishes. We have been saying this since day one. I have been part of such a delegation thrice to Kashmir with Shivraj Patil, P Chidambaram and Rajnath Singh. On all three occasions, we tried to move towards some solutions. Why are they (the government) not doing the same now? Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp
By PTI

KOLKATA: Jadavpur University remained tense after a section of the students staged protests against officiating Vice Chancellor Buddhadeb Sau demanding that the institute accommodate views of 'all stakeholders' while taking any decision about ways to stop ragging on the campus.

When the vice-chancellor was leaving administrative building Aurobindo Bhavan on Monday, students of the SFI-controlled Arts Faculty Students' Union intercepted him and raised their demands.

Sau left the campus after around two hours. Sau told PTI that he tried to reason with the students that an all-stakeholder meeting cannot be called hastily and he will do his best to address their concerns by this week.

"However, they wanted a circular in writing to be issued immediately with the assurance of convening a stakeholder meeting. I wanted to follow the well-established process of going through the Executive Committee meeting before deciding on the all-stakeholder participation issue. Since the students were insistent, we will find a middle path," he added.

The students had been on a sit-in at the Aurobindo Bhavan for over two weeks demanding justice for the undergraduate student who died after falling from the main hostel's second-floor balcony on August 9 after being ragged and allegedly physically abused by seniors.

Joyadrita, a spokesperson of the Arts Faculty Students Union, however, insisted that the VC was not gheraoed.

"We discussed certain crucial issues concerning JU with the officiating VC and want a definite assurance from him," she added.

A university official said along with the interim VC, Pro-VC Amitava Datta also held talks with students to end the impasse.

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KOLKATA: Jadavpur University remained tense after a section of the students staged protests against officiating Vice Chancellor Buddhadeb Sau demanding that the institute accommodate views of 'all stakeholders' while taking any decision about ways to stop ragging on the campus. When the vice-chancellor was leaving administrative building Aurobindo Bhavan on Monday, students of the SFI-controlled Arts Faculty Students' Union intercepted him and raised their demands. Sau left the campus after around two hours. Sau told PTI that he tried to reason with the students that an all-stakeholder meeting cannot be called hastily and he will do his best to address their concerns by this week.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); "However, they wanted a circular in writing to be issued immediately with the assurance of convening a stakeholder meeting. I wanted to follow the well-established process of going through the Executive Committee meeting before deciding on the all-stakeholder participation issue. Since the students were insistent, we will find a middle path," he added. The students had been on a sit-in at the Aurobindo Bhavan for over two weeks demanding justice for the undergraduate student who died after falling from the main hostel's second-floor balcony on August 9 after being ragged and allegedly physically abused by seniors. Joyadrita, a spokesperson of the Arts Faculty Students Union, however, insisted that the VC was not gheraoed. "We discussed certain crucial issues concerning JU with the officiating VC and want a definite assurance from him," she added. A university official said along with the interim VC, Pro-VC Amitava Datta also held talks with students to end the impasse. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp
Namita Bajpai By

Express News Service

LUCKNOW: The tryst of Imran Masood, a prominent western UP leader, with the Bahujan Samaj Party ended with his expulsion from the party on charges of indiscipline on Tuesday. Masood, a turncoat who was formerly with the Congress and Samajwadi Party (SP), had joined the BSP in October last year and party president Mayawati had extended him a very warm welcome.

Masood had joined the BSP after a nine-month stint with the SP. He had hopped to the SP from the Congress just ahead of the UP Assembly polls in January 2022. Now Masood is likely to reunite with the Congress. He recently told media persons that he would take his next step only after consulting his supporters.

His appreciation for Rahul Gandhi recently did not go down well with the BSP chief. As per party sources, Masood was warned over the anti-party activities in which he was indulging for quite some time. However, he did not mend his ways following which he was expelled from the party. In the urban local body polls in May this year, Masood failed to muster enough support from his community to make his sister-in-law Khadija Masood, the BSP mayoral candidate from Saharanpur, sail through.

In fact, Masood was inducted into the BSP to win over Muslims. He was made the partys coordinator in western UP immediately after joining it considering his clout in western UP.

As per party insiders, Masood was promised a Lok Sabha ticket from Saharanpur but when he failed to ensure the victory of Khadija in the civic polls, the party leadership went back on its promise of a Lok Sabha ticket for him.

In the 2014 elections, Masood was booked for his hate speech against PM Narendra Modi. He contested the election on a Congress ticket from Saharanpur and lost. Masood enjoys considerable influence in western UP because of his family. His uncle Rasheed Masood  a nine-term MP, five times in Lok Sabha and four times in Rajya Sabha member  was a state and later Union minister and had been with the Janata Party, Congress, SP and BSP in different phases of his political journey.

However, he was the first elected member of Parliament to be disqualified in 2013 after he was sentenced to four years jail term in connection with a corruption case.

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LUCKNOW: The tryst of Imran Masood, a prominent western UP leader, with the Bahujan Samaj Party ended with his expulsion from the party on charges of indiscipline on Tuesday. Masood, a turncoat who was formerly with the Congress and Samajwadi Party (SP), had joined the BSP in October last year and party president Mayawati had extended him a very warm welcome. Masood had joined the BSP after a nine-month stint with the SP. He had hopped to the SP from the Congress just ahead of the UP Assembly polls in January 2022. Now Masood is likely to reunite with the Congress. He recently told media persons that he would take his next step only after consulting his supporters. His appreciation for Rahul Gandhi recently did not go down well with the BSP chief. As per party sources, Masood was warned over the anti-party activities in which he was indulging for quite some time. However, he did not mend his ways following which he was expelled from the party. In the urban local body polls in May this year, Masood failed to muster enough support from his community to make his sister-in-law Khadija Masood, the BSP mayoral candidate from Saharanpur, sail through.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); In fact, Masood was inducted into the BSP to win over Muslims. He was made the partys coordinator in western UP immediately after joining it considering his clout in western UP. As per party insiders, Masood was promised a Lok Sabha ticket from Saharanpur but when he failed to ensure the victory of Khadija in the civic polls, the party leadership went back on its promise of a Lok Sabha ticket for him. In the 2014 elections, Masood was booked for his hate speech against PM Narendra Modi. He contested the election on a Congress ticket from Saharanpur and lost. Masood enjoys considerable influence in western UP because of his family. His uncle Rasheed Masood  a nine-term MP, five times in Lok Sabha and four times in Rajya Sabha member  was a state and later Union minister and had been with the Janata Party, Congress, SP and BSP in different phases of his political journey. However, he was the first elected member of Parliament to be disqualified in 2013 after he was sentenced to four years jail term in connection with a corruption case. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp
Yeshi Seli By

Express News Service

NEW DELHI: A 50-member trade delegation from New Zealand is in India to seek investment opportunities for its businesses back home. The delegation includes heads of different enterprises from sectors such as dairy, manufacturing, meats, fruits, aviation, education and forestry. New Zealands Trade, Agriculture and Export Growth Minister, Damien O Connor is accompanying the delegation.

We have come with the largest-ever trade delegation to India. Among the 50 members, nearly one-third of people are of Indian origin. We are having a spate of meetings in Delhi over the next few days exploring the possibility of furthering our bilateral trade, Stephen Jacobi, Executive Director, New Zealand International Business Forum told this newspaper.

There will be talks about direct flights between the two countries and collaboration in the diary sector which includes fighting diseases and animal traceability. Though the bilateral trade between India and New Zealand is just USD 2.51 billion, there is immense potential for it to increase in the future. New Zealand is also being considered by many Indian students for their advanced education and we hope to see an increase in student inflow, said Jacobi.

Meanwhile, Indias minister of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairy, Parshottam Rupala had a bilateral meeting with Damien O Connor on Sunday. They discussed the prospects of bilateral cooperation in the sector which included animal disease management and animal traceability.

The Indian diaspora already makes up five per cent of New Zealands population and is growing. Indian immigrants and students contribute skills and diversity to New Zealands economy.

New Zealands Foreign Affairs and Trade office had drafted a document titled India - New Zealand 2025: Investing in the Relationship  which is a roadmap on why India is significant and how the two nations can fortify their association.

India has a growing influence in the Indo-Pacific region and beyond. It is a fast-growing major economy - currently the worlds 5th largest. By 2025, India will have the worlds largest population, with the youth making it a vast global source of both skilled labour and consumers, according to India New Zealand 2025, a document drafted in 2020 to prepare a roadmap for enhancing bilateral relations between the two nations.

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NEW DELHI: A 50-member trade delegation from New Zealand is in India to seek investment opportunities for its businesses back home. The delegation includes heads of different enterprises from sectors such as dairy, manufacturing, meats, fruits, aviation, education and forestry. New Zealands Trade, Agriculture and Export Growth Minister, Damien O Connor is accompanying the delegation. We have come with the largest-ever trade delegation to India. Among the 50 members, nearly one-third of people are of Indian origin. We are having a spate of meetings in Delhi over the next few days exploring the possibility of furthering our bilateral trade, Stephen Jacobi, Executive Director, New Zealand International Business Forum told this newspaper. There will be talks about direct flights between the two countries and collaboration in the diary sector which includes fighting diseases and animal traceability. Though the bilateral trade between India and New Zealand is just USD 2.51 billion, there is immense potential for it to increase in the future. New Zealand is also being considered by many Indian students for their advanced education and we hope to see an increase in student inflow, said Jacobi.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); Meanwhile, Indias minister of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairy, Parshottam Rupala had a bilateral meeting with Damien O Connor on Sunday. They discussed the prospects of bilateral cooperation in the sector which included animal disease management and animal traceability. The Indian diaspora already makes up five per cent of New Zealands population and is growing. Indian immigrants and students contribute skills and diversity to New Zealands economy. New Zealands Foreign Affairs and Trade office had drafted a document titled India - New Zealand 2025: Investing in the Relationship  which is a roadmap on why India is significant and how the two nations can fortify their association. India has a growing influence in the Indo-Pacific region and beyond. It is a fast-growing major economy - currently the worlds 5th largest. By 2025, India will have the worlds largest population, with the youth making it a vast global source of both skilled labour and consumers, according to India New Zealand 2025, a document drafted in 2020 to prepare a roadmap for enhancing bilateral relations between the two nations. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp
Prasanta Mazumdar By

Express News Service

GUWAHATI: The Manipur Assembly met on Tuesday but the one-day session was adjourned sine die in less than an hour as Congress members created a ruckus demanding a five-day session.

The session, which began at 11 am, was over by 11:48 am. There was a 30-minute adjournment in between, an MLA said.

The Opposition members, led by former Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh of the Congress, said the one-day session was insufficient to discuss the prevailing unprecedented situation in the state.

All 10 Kuki MLAs, seven from the ruling BJP, skipped the session. Earlier, they had said, Imphal valley has also become a valley of death for us. Imphal is the states seat of power.

The House proceedings began with a two-minute silence for the victims of the ethnic violence between Meiteis and Kukis.

When Chief Minister N Biren Singh started reading out a resolution, the Opposition members began shouting slogans demanding a five-day session. One of them was heard chanting save democracy. As the din continued, Speaker Thokchom Satyabrata Singh adjourned the session sine die. There was no question hour or private member motion.

ALSO READ | Manipur violence: Assam Rifles sends legal notice to RPI (Athawale) leader over 'slander'

In his address, Singh said, With great sorrow, we condole the deaths of people in the violenceWords seem inefficient for those who have lost their loved ones.

The House resolved to work for oneness and harmony of all people and strive to resolve all differences among people through dialogue and constitutional means.

Congress leader Jairam Ramesh was critical of the brief session.

What a farce! There was simply no reason why with its huge majority the ruling party could not have had the session for a few days at the very least. The reason is simple: if the Assembly Session had functioned, the differences and fissures within the BJP would have come into full display and that too on the floor of the Assembly, he wrote on X, previously Twitter.

Further, the fact that all 10 Kuki MLAs, including the 7 from the BJP, boycotted the Assembly session, shows the deep divide in the state and how the CM is unfit to take forward the peace process. The BJP, as always, has converted an opportunity into a formality, he further wrote.

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GUWAHATI: The Manipur Assembly met on Tuesday but the one-day session was adjourned sine die in less than an hour as Congress members created a ruckus demanding a five-day session. The session, which began at 11 am, was over by 11:48 am. There was a 30-minute adjournment in between, an MLA said. The Opposition members, led by former Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh of the Congress, said the one-day session was insufficient to discuss the prevailing unprecedented situation in the state.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); All 10 Kuki MLAs, seven from the ruling BJP, skipped the session. Earlier, they had said, Imphal valley has also become a valley of death for us. Imphal is the states seat of power. The House proceedings began with a two-minute silence for the victims of the ethnic violence between Meiteis and Kukis. When Chief Minister N Biren Singh started reading out a resolution, the Opposition members began shouting slogans demanding a five-day session. One of them was heard chanting save democracy. As the din continued, Speaker Thokchom Satyabrata Singh adjourned the session sine die. There was no question hour or private member motion. ALSO READ | Manipur violence: Assam Rifles sends legal notice to RPI (Athawale) leader over 'slander' In his address, Singh said, With great sorrow, we condole the deaths of people in the violenceWords seem inefficient for those who have lost their loved ones. The House resolved to work for oneness and harmony of all people and strive to resolve all differences among people through dialogue and constitutional means. Congress leader Jairam Ramesh was critical of the brief session. What a farce! There was simply no reason why with its huge majority the ruling party could not have had the session for a few days at the very least. The reason is simple: if the Assembly Session had functioned, the differences and fissures within the BJP would have come into full display and that too on the floor of the Assembly, he wrote on X, previously Twitter. Further, the fact that all 10 Kuki MLAs, including the 7 from the BJP, boycotted the Assembly session, shows the deep divide in the state and how the CM is unfit to take forward the peace process. The BJP, as always, has converted an opportunity into a formality, he further wrote. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp
Shruti Kakkar By

Express News Service

NEW DELHI: The Modi government on Monday told the Supreme Court that the subject of census is covered in the Union List under Entry 69 in the Seventh Schedule. A batch of pleas has challenged the Patna HC verdict upholding the Bihar governments decision to conduct a caste-based survey for the determination of backward communities.

Filing its response, the Centre termed census a statutory process and said that section 3 of the Census Act, 1948 only empowers it and no other body to conduct this exercise. The Centre expressed its commitment to take all affirmative action for the uplift of SCs/STs/ SEBCs and OBCs in accordance with the Constitution, It said, The Act empowers only the Centre to conduct the census under section 3 of the Census Act, 1948.

The way was paved by a bench of Chief Justice K Vinod Chandran and Justice Partha Sarthy in its 101-page verdict delivered on August 1, 2023. It remarked that caste has been found to be an important indicator of understanding backwardness. Lifting the stay, the court had held that the states contention cannot be brushed aside that the purpose of the survey is to identify backward classes, SCs and STs with the aim to uplift them and also ensure the provision of equal opportunities to them.

Challenging the HC decision, the plea said that only the Union government is empowered to conduct the Census. It is submitted that the notification dated June 6, 2022, is against the Constitutional mandate of distribution of powers between the state and the Union legislature, it said. The court termed the state governments decision to conduct the survey as perfectly validated with due competence and opined that the state was competent to conduct the same as affirmative action as per Article 16 of the Constitution.

It also remarked that there was no element of coercion in the entire exercise. The process of caste-based survey started in Bihar on January 7, 2023. The responsibility of conducting this survey in Bihar has been entrusted to the General Administration Department of the government.

Also in top court

Ex-MP allowed to appear virtually

The Supreme Court permitted former Lok Sabha MP from Bihar Prabhunath Singh to appear before it virtually through video conferencing on September 1 when it will hear arguments on the quantum of sentence to be handed down to him in a 1995 double murder case. It set aside the verdicts of the trial court and the Patna High Court acquitting Singh in the case.

Plea on demolition drive disposed

The Supreme Court on Monday refused to grant further protection to residents of Nai Basti situated in Krishna Janmasthan against the railway demolition drive. Taking note of the fact that the issue regarding ownership over the land is pending in Mathur civil court, a bench led by Justice Aniruddha Bose disposed of the petition.

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NEW DELHI: The Modi government on Monday told the Supreme Court that the subject of census is covered in the Union List under Entry 69 in the Seventh Schedule. A batch of pleas has challenged the Patna HC verdict upholding the Bihar governments decision to conduct a caste-based survey for the determination of backward communities. Filing its response, the Centre termed census a statutory process and said that section 3 of the Census Act, 1948 only empowers it and no other body to conduct this exercise. The Centre expressed its commitment to take all affirmative action for the uplift of SCs/STs/ SEBCs and OBCs in accordance with the Constitution, It said, The Act empowers only the Centre to conduct the census under section 3 of the Census Act, 1948. The way was paved by a bench of Chief Justice K Vinod Chandran and Justice Partha Sarthy in its 101-page verdict delivered on August 1, 2023. It remarked that caste has been found to be an important indicator of understanding backwardness. Lifting the stay, the court had held that the states contention cannot be brushed aside that the purpose of the survey is to identify backward classes, SCs and STs with the aim to uplift them and also ensure the provision of equal opportunities to them.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); Challenging the HC decision, the plea said that only the Union government is empowered to conduct the Census. It is submitted that the notification dated June 6, 2022, is against the Constitutional mandate of distribution of powers between the state and the Union legislature, it said. The court termed the state governments decision to conduct the survey as perfectly validated with due competence and opined that the state was competent to conduct the same as affirmative action as per Article 16 of the Constitution. It also remarked that there was no element of coercion in the entire exercise. The process of caste-based survey started in Bihar on January 7, 2023. The responsibility of conducting this survey in Bihar has been entrusted to the General Administration Department of the government. Also in top court Ex-MP allowed to appear virtually The Supreme Court permitted former Lok Sabha MP from Bihar Prabhunath Singh to appear before it virtually through video conferencing on September 1 when it will hear arguments on the quantum of sentence to be handed down to him in a 1995 double murder case. It set aside the verdicts of the trial court and the Patna High Court acquitting Singh in the case. Plea on demolition drive disposed The Supreme Court on Monday refused to grant further protection to residents of Nai Basti situated in Krishna Janmasthan against the railway demolition drive. Taking note of the fact that the issue regarding ownership over the land is pending in Mathur civil court, a bench led by Justice Aniruddha Bose disposed of the petition. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp
By Express News Service

GUWAHATI: Some 300 protesters were briefly detained by the police in Tripura on Monday during a 12-hour shutdown called by Twipra Students Federation (TSF). They were demanding the introduction of Roman script for the tribal Kokborok language and the passage of the Constitution 125th (Amendment) Bill. The TSF members held protest demonstrations in several parts of the state in support of the two demands. There was no report of any untoward incident, the police said.

In the past two years, TSF and Tipra Motha Party staged a series of protests to mount pressure on the government to address the two issues. Currently, the Bengali script is largely used for Kokborok language. The demand for Roman script gathered pace following reports that students were compelled to write answers for the Kokborok subject in the Bengali script in the CBSE board examination.

The Constitution 125th (Amendment) Bills passage will further empower 10 tribal autonomous councils in the Northeast, including one in Tripura. TSF president Samrat Debbarma said they had earlier petitioned Governor Satyadeo Narain Arya and Chief Minister Manik Saha seeking fulfilment of the two demands but no concrete steps were taken. He said as the government remained silent, they were compelled to call for the shutdown. He warned that the TSF would intensify the agitation if the government continued to remain indifferent.

Schoolgirls cook up abduction story

In strife-torn Manipur, the police were sent into a tizzy on Monday when three schoolgirls reported about escaping an abduction bid However, it soon turned out that they cooked up the story to escape punishment for bunking classes in school. It was reported from Nambol, 16 km from Imphal,

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GUWAHATI: Some 300 protesters were briefly detained by the police in Tripura on Monday during a 12-hour shutdown called by Twipra Students Federation (TSF). They were demanding the introduction of Roman script for the tribal Kokborok language and the passage of the Constitution 125th (Amendment) Bill. The TSF members held protest demonstrations in several parts of the state in support of the two demands. There was no report of any untoward incident, the police said. In the past two years, TSF and Tipra Motha Party staged a series of protests to mount pressure on the government to address the two issues. Currently, the Bengali script is largely used for Kokborok language. The demand for Roman script gathered pace following reports that students were compelled to write answers for the Kokborok subject in the Bengali script in the CBSE board examination. The Constitution 125th (Amendment) Bills passage will further empower 10 tribal autonomous councils in the Northeast, including one in Tripura. TSF president Samrat Debbarma said they had earlier petitioned Governor Satyadeo Narain Arya and Chief Minister Manik Saha seeking fulfilment of the two demands but no concrete steps were taken. He said as the government remained silent, they were compelled to call for the shutdown. He warned that the TSF would intensify the agitation if the government continued to remain indifferent.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); Schoolgirls cook up abduction story In strife-torn Manipur, the police were sent into a tizzy on Monday when three schoolgirls reported about escaping an abduction bid However, it soon turned out that they cooked up the story to escape punishment for bunking classes in school. It was reported from Nambol, 16 km from Imphal, Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp
By PTI

KOLKATA: West Bengal Governor C V Ananda Bose has said that he would always cooperate with the state government but that support may not extend to "whatever it does".

In an exclusive interview with PTI on Monday, Bose made it clear that in a democracy, while the front face of a state is the chief minister and not the nominated governor, each has to stay within the constitutional provisions of their respective 'Lakshman Rekha' (a boundary that should not be crossed).

"The chief minister is the esteemed constitutional colleague of the governor. In a democracy, the front face of a government is the elected chief minister, and not the nominated governor," he said.

Bose, in his free-wheeling interview said, "As the governor, I will cooperate with the (state) government on what it does, not whatever it does. Each should play their role within their turf. Everyone has a 'Lakshman Rekha'. Don't cross the 'Lakshman Rekha'. And most importantly, don't try to draw the 'Lakshman Rekha' for the other. That is the spirit of cooperative federalism," the governor said.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee had on Monday alleged that Governor Bose was violating constitutional norms, and that she does not support his "unconstitutional activities".

"Don't take 'panga' (challenge) with an elected government. I respect the chair, but cannot respect him as an individual since he disregards the Constitution. He is appointing his friends as vice-chancellors of universities," the chief minister had said, referring to Bose.

Governor Bose pointed out that the university statutes do not state that vice chancellors have to be necessarily academics.

"I have appointed a former chief justice and a retired IPS officer as officiating VCs because of their qualifications," he said, adding, "Anybody can be appointed as Interim VCs".

In his capacity as chancellor of West Bengal's state-run or state-supported universities, the governor has appointed Justice S K Mukherjee, former chief justice of Karnataka as interim VC of the Rabindra Bharati University and retired IPS officer M Wahab as interim VC of Aliah University.

The governor pointed out that Calcutta High Court has said that on appointments of vice chancellors, the governor needs to consult the state government, but has upheld that he does not need the state's concurrence in appointment of VCs.

"There are many people from West Bengal in top academic positions in prestigious foreign universities, IIMs and IITs who are interested in serving the state, we will see how we can make the state a thriving educational hub," he said.

Drawing attention to the recent case of a Jadavpur University student who died after being allegedly ragged, besides incidents of campus violence, the governor said, "Our universities have become highly politicised.

It is natural for political parties to wish to control universities but we need to bring some sanctity to our educational system.

" With a wry smile, he said that while no party would want "another party to control universities, I believe that they will also not object to genuine autonomy for universities".

"Universities are also suffering from hooliganism which outsiders have imported into the campuses," Bose said, adding, "That is why we need to check the presence of outside elements." In the case of alleged ragging and subsequent death of a first year student of Jadavpur University, a number of former students of the premier institute who were overstaying in the campus hostel were found involved.

"The universities belong to the students. Campuses belong to the new generation. Every teacher, every functionary in the university should realise their first duty is to the student, second duty is to the student and third duty is to the student," he said.

He underlined that poet laureate Rabindranath Tagore "has given us the dream of that land where the mind is without fear and the head is held high; where knowledge is free".

However, in place of that, "Our universities have become places where the mind is full of fear and the head is held low in the background of the mounting violence and the presence of miscreants in the campuses," he said, adding, "We need a transformation from this -- from chaos to order, from the ridiculous to the sublime."

Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp

KOLKATA: West Bengal Governor C V Ananda Bose has said that he would always cooperate with the state government but that support may not extend to "whatever it does". In an exclusive interview with PTI on Monday, Bose made it clear that in a democracy, while the front face of a state is the chief minister and not the nominated governor, each has to stay within the constitutional provisions of their respective 'Lakshman Rekha' (a boundary that should not be crossed). "The chief minister is the esteemed constitutional colleague of the governor. In a democracy, the front face of a government is the elected chief minister, and not the nominated governor," he said.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); Bose, in his free-wheeling interview said, "As the governor, I will cooperate with the (state) government on what it does, not whatever it does. Each should play their role within their turf. Everyone has a 'Lakshman Rekha'. Don't cross the 'Lakshman Rekha'. And most importantly, don't try to draw the 'Lakshman Rekha' for the other. That is the spirit of cooperative federalism," the governor said. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee had on Monday alleged that Governor Bose was violating constitutional norms, and that she does not support his "unconstitutional activities". "Don't take 'panga' (challenge) with an elected government. I respect the chair, but cannot respect him as an individual since he disregards the Constitution. He is appointing his friends as vice-chancellors of universities," the chief minister had said, referring to Bose. Governor Bose pointed out that the university statutes do not state that vice chancellors have to be necessarily academics. "I have appointed a former chief justice and a retired IPS officer as officiating VCs because of their qualifications," he said, adding, "Anybody can be appointed as Interim VCs". In his capacity as chancellor of West Bengal's state-run or state-supported universities, the governor has appointed Justice S K Mukherjee, former chief justice of Karnataka as interim VC of the Rabindra Bharati University and retired IPS officer M Wahab as interim VC of Aliah University. The governor pointed out that Calcutta High Court has said that on appointments of vice chancellors, the governor needs to consult the state government, but has upheld that he does not need the state's concurrence in appointment of VCs. "There are many people from West Bengal in top academic positions in prestigious foreign universities, IIMs and IITs who are interested in serving the state, we will see how we can make the state a thriving educational hub," he said. Drawing attention to the recent case of a Jadavpur University student who died after being allegedly ragged, besides incidents of campus violence, the governor said, "Our universities have become highly politicised. It is natural for political parties to wish to control universities but we need to bring some sanctity to our educational system. " With a wry smile, he said that while no party would want "another party to control universities, I believe that they will also not object to genuine autonomy for universities". "Universities are also suffering from hooliganism which outsiders have imported into the campuses," Bose said, adding, "That is why we need to check the presence of outside elements." In the case of alleged ragging and subsequent death of a first year student of Jadavpur University, a number of former students of the premier institute who were overstaying in the campus hostel were found involved. "The universities belong to the students. Campuses belong to the new generation. Every teacher, every functionary in the university should realise their first duty is to the student, second duty is to the student and third duty is to the student," he said. He underlined that poet laureate Rabindranath Tagore "has given us the dream of that land where the mind is without fear and the head is held high; where knowledge is free". However, in place of that, "Our universities have become places where the mind is full of fear and the head is held low in the background of the mounting violence and the presence of miscreants in the campuses," he said, adding, "We need a transformation from this -- from chaos to order, from the ridiculous to the sublime." Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp
Reliance invested over $150 bn in last 10 years, most by any corporate house in India

New Delhi, Aug 28

Reliance has cumulatively invested more than $150 billion in the last 10 years - higher than any other corporate house in India, and comparable to the leading businesses across the world, Mukesh Ambani, Chairman and Managing Director, Reliance Industries Limited, said in his address at the 46th AGM of the company.

"In all humility, I would like to say that the new Reliance has been a forerunner of the emerging new India. With soaring ambition, we have set seemingly impossible goals and achieved them", Ambani said.

"The best way to describe this new Reliance is that we have now become a new-age technology company with distinctive capabilities. Today we are a net producer of technology, large-scale deployer of technology, as well as a democratiser of technology," he said.

Ambani added "What is true about Reliance is equally true about scores of other Indian enterprises, leading corporates as well as start-ups. I hugely admire their brilliant achievements. They too have made India proud by enhancing our nation's fame globally with their spectacular growth, commitment to quality and passion for innovation."

Reliance invested over $150 bn in last 10 years, most by any corporate house in India

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Washington, Aug 28

U S District Judge Tanya S. Chutkan has posted for March 4, 2024, to bring to trial former President Donald Trump on charges of attempting to overturn the 2020 presidential election even as parallel hearing was being held in Atlanta Monday morning to determine whether his former chief of staff, Mark Meadows, can move his election-related indictment from state to a federal court.

Trump is a frontrunner in the Republican 2024 presidential contest, and the Washington D.C. trial's starting date is the day before the Super Tuesday primaries, media reports said.

Trump, only person indicted in the Washington D.C. case so far, reportedly enlisted six unnamed conspirators to overturn the Joe Biden victory to cling to power in the White House, his indictment reveals. He is the first former US President to face criminal charges, being indicted in four cases -- all of them while leading the Republican field in the 2024 presidential nomination race.

The former President has denied any wrongdoing and claimed it was his right under the constitution (which he once said should be annulled) to question an election verdict.

Chutkan, in setting a March 2024 date for the D.C. federal trial of Trump on charges that he tried to obstruct the certification of the 2020 election, said that the public has a right to see the trial ASAP. "I take seriously the defense's request that Trump will be treated like any other defendant appearing before this court, and I intend to do so," Chutkan said at a hearing Monday morning.

The trial date set by Judge Chutkan is actually two months later than prosecutors had requested, but far earlier than the proposal by Trump's legal team. Trump wanted the trial to begin in April 2026, long after the 2024 presidential election. Prosecutors had proposed that it begin in January 2024, media reports said.

Trump's federal trial in election subversion case set for March 2024

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Washington, Aug 29

F ormer US President Donald Trump once again tried to steal the show from the Washington D.C. Federal Courts and Atlanta County hearings on his election subversion and racketeering charges by calling President Joe Biden's federal officials "fascist thugs".

Trump literally defied the Federal district judge in Washington D.C. Judge Tanya Chutkan, ahead of her hearings today on him, who previously had warned the former President that "inflammatory statements" would compel her to speed up his trial.

Monday's court hearing set the date for Trump to stand trial on March 4, 2024, in the thick of the Republican primaries and campaigns to the 2024 presidential race.

In a post on Monday on Truth Social, Trump called special counsel Jack Smith "deranged", suggesting federal officials investigating his actions were "political sleazebags" and accused Biden allies in the White House of being "fascist thugs", media reports said.

"It has just been reported that aides to TRUMP prosecutor, Deranged Jack Smith, met with high officials at the White House just prior to these political SleazeBags Indicting me OVER NOTHING," Trump wrote.

"If this is so, which it is, that means that Biden and his Fascist Thugs knew and APPROVED this Country dividing Form of Election Interference, despite their insisting that they 'knew nothing.' It's all a BIG LIE, just like Russia, Russia, Russia, & not knowing about son's business dealings. DISMISS CASE!" Trump ranted in his post to shift attention from Monday's hearings against him in two courts.

Trump seems to allege that White House officials met with aides to special counsel Jack Smith ahead of the federal indictment involving Trump's efforts to remain in power after losing the 2020 election. Trump also referred to controversies surrounding Hunter Biden, President Joe Biden's son, on China and the "illegal means" of acquiring a gun.

The former President's attack was timed to appear before attorneys and federal prosecutors began their arguments for the trial date in the federal criminal case related to the 2020 election.

Even as prosecutors pushed for a January 2, 2024, start date, while Trump's attorneys pulled for a April 2026 trial, Judge Chutkan chose a middle path setting the date for trial to March 4, 2024, much to the discomfiture of Trump and his legal team as it appeared in the middle of the Republican campaign schedules for the 2024 presidency.

Trump had always wanted to push off his court fights until after the presidential election. Because, if he was elected president, his Justice Department could end his federal prosecution, or Trump could pardon himself, reports said.

Earlier this month, however, US District Court Judge Tanya Chutkan, who is presiding over the case, had warned both sides in the case to refrain from making any statements that could intimidate witnesses or prejudice the jury pool. She said making such statements would compel her to speed up the trial. "The more a party makes inflammatory statements about this case, the greater the urgency will be that we proceed to trial quickly," Chutkan said at the hearing.

Trump calls Biden's federal officials 'fascist thugs'

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Chances of Harris' presidency should 'send a chill up every American's spine': Haley

Washington, Aug 29

F iring a fresh salvo at US Vice President Kamala Harris, fellow Indian-American and Republican presidential hopeful has said that the prospect of her presidency should "send a chill up every American's spine".

In an interview to Fox News, Haley, who has called Harris "incompetent" and "unbelievably extremist", expressed concern at the prospect of the vice president becoming leader if Democrats register a win in the 2024 presidential elections.

"My concern is we cannot have Kamala Harris as President. We can't chance this. We have to make sure that we have a new generational leader that's going to bring in not only Republicans, but we're going to pull back the independents," Haley told Fox News on Sunday.

"We're going to bring back in the suburban women, we're going to bring in Hispanics. We're going to bring in the Asian community. We have to make sure we win this, because the thought of Kamala Harris being President should send a chill up every American spine."

In the first Republican presidential debate in Milwaukee last week, the former South Carolina Governor had said that "anybody is better than Kamala Harris", bolstering her previous stance that a vote on President Joe Biden is a vote on his 2024 running mate Harris.

Her views correspond with fellow Republican strategists, who opine that Harris is a thorn in Biden's wrinkled paw.

Responding to Haley's fresh attack, writer Jemele Hill said that the former UN ambassador is "racist" because she doesn't want Harris to be the president, Fox News reported.

Haley, who says that it is time to "put a badass woman in the White House", is far behind her former boss Donald Trump and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis in popularity polls.

A recent Fox News poll showed that 53 per cent of likely voters preferred Trump.

Haley came fifth, far behind DeSantis and fellow Indian-American rival, Vivek Ramaswamy.

But she insists that the race is "actually just getting started".

Meanwhile, a recent NBC News survey found that 49 per cent of respondents have a negative opinion of Harris, while 32 per cent of those surveyed have a positive opinion of the Vice President.

She received a net negative rating of -17 -- the lowest net negative rating for a Vice President in the history of the poll.

Between February 14 and 20, a Berkeley Institute of Government Studies and The Los Angeles Times poll found that 59 per cent of registered voters were hesitant about Harris seeking the country's highest office.

What was more shocking was that the majority of these voters were from California -- a Democrat bastion and Harris' home state.

But then Biden hasn't exactly set Harris up for success, according to Bloomberg's Francis Wilkinson.

Critics argue that Biden is running for 2024 as he does not believe Harris would have as good a chance of beating Trump.

Chances of Harris' presidency should 'send a chill up every American's spine': Haley

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Maryland, August 29

F ilmmaker Vivek Agnihotri, whose upcoming film 'The Vaccine War' is set to hit the theatres in September, has termed the success of Chandryaan-3 "a victory of women scientists in India."

Director Agnihotri made these remarks at a special screening of 'The Vaccine War' in the US.

"I think Indian science is now evolving and is getting on the world map and it is happening only because of women scientists," he said while speaking to ANI.

"I'm elated, I almost had tears in my eyes. Again the same story, like my film . Mostly women, whom the West does not consider empowered because of a variety of reasons... It's a great victory for Indian women and Indian science," he said.

He also said that how despite low resources and India being considered a country lacking in the race for science, it has become a leading force in space.

"Despite having very low resources and not much experience, we are trying to become a self-reliant country. The same country which was not even considered in the science race a few decades ago, today is a leading force. Whether it's bioscience, rocket science or ocean science, We are the largest solar power-producing country in the world today. I think Indian science is now evolving and is getting on the world map and it is happening only because of our women scientists," Agnihotri added.

India took a giant leap on August 23, as the Chandrayaan-3 lander module successfully landed on the moon's South pole, making it the first country to have achieved the historic feat.

The country became the fourth- after the US, China, and Russia - to have successfully landed on the moon's surface. Meanwhile, the Pragyan rover rolled out of Chandrayaan-3 Vikram lander's belly and moved on the lunar surface began doing its set experiments and subsequently relayed them back to ISRO headquarters.

"The Vaccine War is about how India made the Covid vaccines under unprecedented challenges, and later provided them free of cost to many countries throughout the world that were in dire need of this vaccine. The movie celebrates the power of the fiercely driven and motivated women scientists of India who worked day and night to produce the COVID-19 vaccine. We are looking forward to a great success of Vaccine War," said Mohan Wanchoo, organiser for the show in New York.

"Based on the reaction of people who have seen it, The Vaccine War could be another blockbuster for Vivek Agnihotri like his earlier National award winner The Kashmir Files," he added.

"Vivek is a brilliant and bold filmmaker," Al Mason, a prominent Indian American voice told ANI.

The director is currently on an "India for Humanity Tour, USA" and screening his movie before a select audience in various cities including Washington DC, New York, LA, Houston and more.

'The Vaccine War' will narrate the tale of the triumph of scientists and 130 crore people who fought the battle in the Covid-19 era. Agnihotri unveiled the film's teaser on social media earlier this month.

The brief teaser gave a glimpse of the activities of scientists involved with the BBV152 vaccine, also known as Covaxin, developed by Bharat Biotech in partnership with the Indian Council of Medical Research - National Institute of Virology.

Actors like Nana Patekar, Anupam Kher and Pallavi Joshi headline the film.

Victory of women scientists in India: Filmmaker Vivek Agnihotri on Chandrayaan-3's success

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Washington, August 29

T he youngest Indian-Origin Republican presidential candidate, Vivek Ramaswamy has received a notice from Marshall B. Mathers III, better known as the rapper Eminem for using his music in election campaigning, The New York Times reported on Monday.

According to The New York Times, the licensing arm of Mathers's record company, BMI, informed the Ramaswamy campaign in a letter dated Wednesday and reprinted in The Daily Mail on Monday that "BMI will consider any performance of the Eminem works by the Vivek 2024 campaign from this date forward to be a material breach" of the firm's licensing rules, "for which BMI reserves all rights and remedies with respect thereto."

This comes after the Ramaswamy broke into an impromptu version of Eminem's "Lose Yourself" at the Iowa State Fair. The 38-year-old Ramaswamy while campaigning started performing rap when an enterprising sound technician played the song "Lose Yourself".

"Vivek just got on the stage and cut loose," his campaign spokeswoman, Tricia McLaughlin, said on Monday. "To the American people's chagrin, we will have to leave the rapping to the real Slim Shady," another of Mr. Mathers's noms de plume.

Earlier this year, Ramaswamy announced his 2024 US presidential election bid.

The 37-year-old Vivek Ramaswamy is a native of southwest Ohio. His mother was a geriatric psychiatrist and his father worked as an engineer at General Electric.

Ramaswamy was born on August 9, 1985, and raised in Cincinnati, Ohio. His parents migrated to the US from Kerala.

He is the second Indian-American to enter the 2024 Republican presidential primary after Nikki Haley. He is the fourth Indian-American ever to run for the White House --Bobby Jindal ran in 2016 and Vice President Kamala Harris in 2020.

Ramaswamy joined the Republican field following ex-US President Donald Trump and former South Carolina governor and former ambassador to the United Nations Nikki Haley's presidential bid announcement.

A second-generation Indian American, Ramaswamy founded Roivant Sciences in 2014 and led the largest biotech IPOs of 2015 and 2016, eventually culminating in successful clinical trials in multiple disease areas that led to FDA-approved products, according to his bio.

Before entering the presidential ballot, Ramaswamy has to win the Republican Party's presidential primary which will start in January next year. The next US presidential election is scheduled to be held on November 5, 2024.

Rapper Eminem asks US Presidential Election candidate Vivek Ramaswamy to stop rapping his songs

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Press Release

August 29, 2023 Senate approves Caregivers' Welfare Act on third reading Senators on Tuesday, August 29, 2023, approved the measure recognizing the role of caregivers in national development, ensuring their rights to decent employment and affording them monetary and non-monetary benefits. With a vote of 21-0, the proposed "Caregivers' Welfare Act" or Senate Bill No. 2019 was approved on third and final reading. "Para sa mga kababayan natin na pinupunan ang pag-aaruga ng dapat sana ay ginagampanan ng mga miyembro ng pamilya, nararapat lamang na tumbasan natin ang kanilang serbisyo ng mga benepisyo at proteksyon gaya ng iba pang manggagawa sa bansa," Senator Jinggoy Ejercito Estrada said. This measure outlines guidelines for preparing and entering employment contracts, submitting pre-employment requirements, determining work hours and minimum wage, and providing payment of wages, leaves, and other benefits. It also ensures that the benefits being currently received by caregivers cannot be reduced. In addition, the bill protects them against unjust termination of service, safeguards those hired through private employment agencies, and establishes dispute resolution procedures. Lastly, it outlines the responsibilities of caregivers and the necessities that their employers should provide for them. Under SB 2019, caregivers are also entitled to mandatory overtime pay and night shift differential. The Chairperson of the Senate Committee on Labor, Employment and Human Resources Development said that caregivers should receive at least the minimum wage applicable in their region. The Senate bill that has been approved includes a provision for granting caregivers an annual service incentive leave of no less than five days with pay, provided they have served for at least a year. In addition, other leave benefits already stipulated by existing laws will also be granted. They will also be covered by the Social Security System (SSS), Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth), and the Home Development Mutual Fund (HDMF) or Pag-IBIG and be accorded all benefits in accordance with the pertinent provisions of the law. "Para sa kapakanan ng ating mga caregivers, ang Senado ay nagkaisa upang aprubahan ang 'Caregivers' Welfare Act.' Ito po ay isang mahalaga at espesyal na pagkakataon para sa inyong lingkod. Tayo ay nagpasa ng panukalang batas na magbibigay ng proteksiyon sa isang 'vulnerable but vigorous' sector of our society. Katulad ng Batas Kasambahay na ipinagdiwang natin ang ika-sampung taon ngayon, umaasa tayo na ito ay isang hakbang para sa patuloy na pag-unlad at pagbuti ng kalagayan ng ating mga caregivers," said Estrada. The measure covers those employed and working within the country in private homes, nursing or care facilities, and other residential settings, whether directly hired by the employer or through Public Employment Service Office (PESO) or private employment agencies (PEAs).
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"My kids roll their eyes when I attempt to converse in Italian during the family Facetime calls. But they wont be laughing when Im crushing it interpreting the menu at 'il ristorante,' or asking 'Dove il gelato?' when they get a hankering for ice cream," Peggy Prichard writes.
In a recent study posted to the medRxiv preprint* server, researchers established a polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) testing program in an educational institution, analyzing saliva samples obtained from asymptomatic students and staff.

SARS-CoV-2 testing in the community was crucial during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, with extensive facilities and volunteers from universities setting up mass testing programs. However, contact tracing and management of these large facilities were complex, and testing was limited to symptomatic individuals. Universities offer an advantage by offering a flexible workforce, space availability, and experience in service provision and management.

Study: KCL TEST: an open-source inspired asymptomatic SARS-CoV-2 surveillance programme in an academic institution. Image Credit: Dizfoto / Shutterstock

*Important notice: medRxiv publishes preliminary scientific reports that are not peer-reviewed and, therefore, should not be regarded as conclusive, guide clinical practice/health-related behavior, or treated as established information.

About the study

In the present prospective cohort study, researchers developed an automated, PCR-based service to detect SARS-CoV-2 from saliva samples and enable surveillance of asymptomatic community residents.

The study was conducted between December 2020 and July 2022. KCL test, funded by Kings College London, comprised several teams, including operations, laboratory, and management. In total, there were 18 staffed hubs located around London, United Kingdom (UK), where students and workers could pick up saliva sampling kits and submit their saliva samples. The authors created their laboratory information management system (LIMS) to log samples and save handling times by utilizing the barcodes present on the tubes. SARS-CoV-2 ribonucleic acid (RNA) was detected in the saliva samples of asymptomatic students, staff members, and their home contacts by real-time quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR).

The exam was created following the UK Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) criteria. Asymptomatic individuals were motivated to test every day (and twice a week on campus). The primary outcome measures were the number of COVID-19 tests performed, the number of individuals tested, and the rate of SARS-CoV-2 positivity. The samples were processed using an automated, open source-low-cost framework using non-commercial-type reagents. Sample processing was anonymized since laboratory personnel solely used the barcodes on the tubes.

The results were delivered to the service users (who were matched using barcode data) as well as to the National Health Service's Test and Trace program, which contributed to national testing efforts. The management team was also provided information on SARS-CoV-2-positive people and the likelihood of possible outbreaks, such as whether positive samples were grouped in certain areas. Triplex assays were done to identify SARS-CoV-2 RNA utilizing the SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid (N) and envelope (E) genes and the human ribonuclease P (RNAseP) as a negative outcome control and primer sequences provided by the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (US CDC).

Data acquired from hundreds of RNA samples were used to generate detection and cycle threshold (Ct) values to determine the best range of human ribonuclease P amplification. As part of the accreditation criteria, the team completed competency exams, including theoretical questions concerning the assays. The researchers created a "homebrew" technique for RNA extraction from nasal swabs which was improved to extract RNA from salivary samples, and its performance was evaluated using 980 samples. The researchers also assessed the assay's specificity and sensitivity, testing 250 negative and 150 positive samples using commercial kits, comparing the findings to those of a United Kingdom Accreditation Service (UKAS)-accredited testing laboratory, and running 67 of the samples using the in-house technique. The researchers compared saliva and swab samples of the same individual with swab specimens processed in a different UKAS-accredited facility.

Results

In total, 58,277 PCR tests were performed on saliva, with 2,989 positive (1.9%), collected from 20,186 individuals. During the study period, 160,000 samples were processed using the KCL methodology. Every day for 18.0 months, between 10.0 and 30.0% of campus footfall was evaluated. To detect SARS-CoV-2, the turnaround time was eight hours, and the detection limit was 100 copies per mL. Except for the period of SARS-CoV-2 Delta variant of concern (VOC) predominance, the SARS-CoV-2 positive rate was comparable to that reported by the Office for National Statistics in the United Kingdom; Delta infections were minimal in the study cohort.

The swiftly built automated SARS-CoV-2 surveillance service received the United Kingdom Accreditation Service (UKAS) accreditation under the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) 15189 standard. The system allowed for down- and up-scaling, making it adaptable and applicable in different contexts and for various objectives. The homebrew approach matched the commercial RNA extraction method for detecting SARS-CoV-2 in saliva, indicating that non-commercial reagents provided equivalent results at a fraction of the cost of commercial reagents and may be utilized and accredited for diagnostic purposes.

According to UK government criteria for healthcare and public health screening and testing, 85% sensitivity and 100% specificity were observed. Restricting the analysis to samples with more than 106 copies/mL increased the sensitivity to 95%. SARS-CoV-2 identification differed between combined saliva samples and nasopharyngeal and oropharyngeal swabs, with salivary detection dropping quicker than the combined nasopharyngeal and oropharyngeal swabs. This is owing to a faster SARS-CoV-2 clearance from the oral mucosa, indicating that saliva may provide a more precise measure of infectiousness than swab samples.

Despite testing numbers being consistent and the return to university gatherings that occurred in September, the proportion of SARS-CoV-2-positive samples showed similar patterns compared to that documented by the United Kingdom's Office for National Statistics (ONS), with the exception of a practically missing delta wave. The findings also showed a significant elevation in SARS-CoV-2 positivity between May end and the beginning of June 2022.

The study findings showed that the SARS-CoV-2 RNA detection framework provided minimally invasive sampling, accurate reporting, and low-cost diagnostics. Asymptomatic COVID-19 testing in the community is valuable, and governments should engage with academic centers to develop pipelines and alleviate overstretched healthcare systems.

*Important notice: medRxiv publishes preliminary scientific reports that are not peer-reviewed and, therefore, should not be regarded as conclusive, guide clinical practice/health-related behavior, or treated as established information.
A new study shows that patients can experience reduced co-determination and insufficient information about their cancer treatment, while doctors face pressure to give treatment they do not consider useful.

Shared decision-making is the norm in the patient's healthcare service but may be difficult to accomplish. A new study in Norway has investigated what needs and challenges patients with advanced lung cancer, their relatives, nurses, and doctors experience when deciding on a treatment plan.

Continuity in the patient-healthcare personnel relationship and familiarity with each other were emphasized as absolutely fundamental when trying to make the best possible decisions." Margrethe Aase Schaufel, associate professor at the University of Bergen and senior author of the article

Patients do not understand that they can refrain from treatment.

The study participants reported that it was difficult to communicate and understand complicated assessments of what further cancer treatment may entail in terms of benefits and harms.

"Although patients could be satisfied with the follow-up and treatment recommended by the doctor, information was also given about situations where they had not understood that they could refrain from life-prolonging treatment which resulted in a significantly reduced quality of life", Schaufel says.

Doctors feel pressured to give treatment that could be harmful.

Some patients experienced having to fight for more treatment than what the doctor thought was advisable. And doctors reported pressure to give treatment that could be useless and harmful.

"The doctors expressed a need for tools that provide more reliable knowledge about treatment tolerance and effect for the individual patient", says Schaufel.

"We need measures that can ensure enough time to dialogue and communication".

The study concludes that it is difficult to develop a so-called decision aid for advanced lung cancer that will be able to solve the challenges and needs reported by stakeholders, especially when there is great uncertainty related to the effect of several lines of treatment in advanced disease.

"Measures are called for that can ensure continuity in the patient-healthcare professional relationship and enough time for dialogue, communication training for clinicians to increase the patient autonomy, and better scoring tools for treatment tolerance", Schaufel concludes.
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) cost the EU an estimated 282 billion in 2021, according to late breaking research presented at ESC Congress 2023. Health and long-term care accounted for 155 billion (55%) of these costs, equalling 11% of EU health expenditure. The analysis was a collaborative effort by the European Society of Cardiology (ESC) and the University of Oxford, UK.

CVD had a significant impact on the EU27 economy, costing a total of 282 billion in 2021. That's equivalent to 2% of Europe's GDP and is significantly more than the entire EU budget itself, used to fund research, agriculture, infrastructure and energy across the Union." Dr. Ramon Luengo-Fernandez, Study Author, University of Oxford

This was the most comprehensive and up-to-date analysis of the economic costs of CVD to society in the EU since 2006. It is the first study to use Europe-wide patient registries and surveys rather than relying on assumptions and, unlike previous reports, includes the costs of long-term social care. The current analysis provides estimates of the societal economic costs of CVD for the 27 members states of the EU in 2021, including 1) health and social care; 2) informal care; and 3) productivity losses. The breakdown includes:

130 billion for healthcare (46%)

25 billion for social care (9%)

79 billion for informal care (28%)

15 billion in productivity losses due to illness/disability (5%)

32 billion in productivity losses due to premature death (12%).

The total cost equated to 630 per EU citizen, ranging from 381 in Cyprus to 903 in Germany.

CVD cost health and social care systems approximately 155 billion in 2021, accounting for 11% of total healthcare expenditure. There was wide variation between countries in the proportion of healthcare budgets spent on CVD, from 6% in Denmark to 19% in Hungary. Healthcare included primary care, emergency care, hospital care, outpatient care and medications, while social care included long-term institutionalised care, and care at home. The main contributor was hospital care, which cost 79 billion, representing 51% of CVD-related care costs. CVD medications accounted for 31 billion (20%) of care costs, followed by residential nursing care homes at 15 billion (9%).

Informal care costs included the work or leisure time, valued in monetary terms, that relatives and friends gave up to provide unpaid care. Relatives and friends provided 7.5 billion hours of unpaid care for patients with CVD, amounting to 79 billion across the EU.

Productivity losses included lost earnings due to illness/disability (early retirement/absenteeism) or premature death. In 2021, 256 million working-days were lost in the EU because of CVD illness/disability, at a cost of 15 billion. That same year, 1.7 million people died due to CVD across the EU, representing 1.3 million working-years lost, and generating productivity losses of 32 billion.

ESC Board member and study author Professor Victor Aboyans of Limoges University, France said: "This study underscores the urgent need to act collectively on the European scale to better combat the cardiovascular risk of European citizens, in particular through regulations for better cardiovascular prevention and investment in research. By choosing not to invest in cardiovascular disease we are simply deferring the cost. These data force us to ask the question: do we invest in cardiovascular health today or be forced to pay more at a later stage?"

Professor Panos Vardas, chief strategy officer of the European Heart Agency, the ESC's office in Brussels, said: "Today's presentation provides a clear understanding of the overall economic burden of cardiovascular disease across different EU countries, offering the opportunity to draw valuable conclusions that are useful for those responsible for designing healthcare plans. It is evident that there is significant fragmentation among EU countries in terms of cardiovascular disease healthcare expenditures. This necessitates a re-evaluation by the EU as a whole, and the 27 EU countries individually, to better address the outstanding needs and invest more effectively in supporting those suffering from cardiovascular disease."
Plastics-;in particular, microplastics-;are among the most pervasive pollutants on the planet, finding their way into the air, water systems and food chains around the world. While the prevalence of microplastics in the environment is well known-;as are their negative impacts on marine organisms-;few studies have examined the potential health impacts on mammals, prompting University of Rhode Island Professor Jaime Ross' new study.

Ross and her team focused on neurobehavioral effects and inflammatory response to exposure to microplastics, as well as the accumulation of microplastics in tissues, including the brain. They have found that the infiltration of microplastics was as widespread in the body as it is in the environment, leading to behavioral changes, especially in older test subjects.

Current research suggests that these microplastics are transported throughout the environment and can accumulate in human tissues; however, research on the health effects of microplastics, especially in mammals, is still very limited. This has led our group to explore the biological and cognitive consequences of exposure to microplastics." Jaime Ross, assistant professor of biomedical and pharmaceutical sciences, Ryan Institute for Neuroscience and the College of Pharmacy

Ross' team-;which includes Research Assistant Professor Giuseppe Coppotelli, biomedical and pharmaceutical sciences graduate student Lauren Gaspar, and Interdisciplinary Neuroscience Program graduate student Sydney Bartman-;exposed young and old mice to varying levels of microplastics in drinking water over the course of three weeks. They found that microplastic exposure induces both behavioral changes and alterations in immune markers in liver and brain tissues. The study mice began to move and behave peculiarly, exhibiting behaviors akin to dementia in humans. The results were even more profound in older animals.

"To us, this was striking. These were not high doses of microplastics, but in only a short period of time, we saw these changes," Ross said. "Nobody really understands the life cycle of these microplastics in the body, so part of what we want to address is the question of what happens as you get older. Are you more susceptible to systemic inflammation from these microplastics as you age? Can your body get rid of them as easily? Do your cells respond differently to these toxins?"

To understand the physiological systems that may be contributing to these changes in behavior, Ross' team investigated how widespread the microplastic exposure was in the body, dissecting several major tissues including the brain, liver, kidney, gastrointestinal tract, heart, spleen and lungs. The researchers found that the particles had begun to bioaccumulate in every organ, including the brain, as well as in bodily waste.

"Given that in this study the microplastics were delivered orally via drinking water, detection in tissues such as the gastrointestinal tract, which is a major part of the digestive system, or in the liver and kidneys was always probable," Ross said. "The detection of microplastics in tissues such as the heart and lungs, however, suggests that the microplastics are going beyond the digestive system and likely undergoing systemic circulation. The brain blood barrier is supposed to be very difficult to permeate. It is a protective mechanism against viruses and bacteria, yet these particles were able to get in there. It was actually deep in the brain tissue."

That brain infiltration also may cause a decrease in glial fibrillary acidic protein (called "GFAP"), a protein that supports many cell processes in the brain, results have shown. "A decrease in GFAP has been associated with early stages of some neurodegenerative diseases, including mouse models of Alzheimer's disease, as well as depression," Ross said. "We were very surprised to see that the microplastics could induce altered GFAP signaling."

She intends to investigate this finding further in future work. "We want to understand how plastics may change the ability for the brain to maintain its homeostasis or how exposure may lead to neurological disorders and diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease," she said.

The study was published in the International Journal of Molecular Science. It was supported by the Rhode Island Medical Research Foundation, Roddy Foundation, Plastics Initiative, URI College of Pharmacy, George and Anne Ryan Institute for Neuroscience, and the Rhode Island Institutional Development Award (IDeA) Network of Biomedical Research Excellence from the National Institute of General Medical Sciences of the National Institutes of Health.
Scientific research requires patience. The rewards are not always immediate, and the technology needed does not always exist. Michael A. Trakselis, Ph.D., professor and director of graduate affairs for the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry at Baylor University, understands this.

For 15 years, Trakselis has been interested in the MCM8/9 enzyme. Part of the minichromosome maintenance protein (MCM) family, MCM8/9 is directly linked to ovarian insufficiency, infertility and cancers including ovarian, testicular and colon cancers, yet little is known about how this enzyme works and its connection to disease. There was no understanding of the relationship between the structure and function of the enzyme.

The research  Activity, substrate preference, and structure of HsMCM8/9 helicase  was published in the scientific journal Nucleic Acids Research. With this new information, researchers in the Trakselis Laboratory and elsewhere have a roadmap to better understand the function of this enzyme complex and how mutations may be connected to disease.

Mutations in MCM8 or MCM9 can cause infertility and cancer; yet, we don't know why we get certain diseases when there are mutations in this protein. Having the structure might help us figure out some of that." Michael A. Trakselis, Ph.D., professor and director of graduate affairs, Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry at Baylor University

Before that could happen, Trakselis had to overcome two barriers: technology and a stable protein solution needed to conduct the research.

Until recently, the technology needed to understand MCM8/9 was not readily available. The Single-particle cryo-Transmission Electron Microscope (cryo-EM) is a highly sensitive and expensive microscope that has only been available for use for about eight years.

"It's a massive instrument, but it works to image really tiny things," Trakselis said.

The cryo-EM helps visualize and solve what the structure looks like by shooting electron beams into the material. "Based on how the beams are reflected or refracted, you can start to build a structure."

On this research, collaborating with researchers from Rice University and the University of Texas Health Science System in Houston, Dr. Trakselis was able access a cryo-EM. (NOTE: Baylor University debuted its new multimillion-dollar transmission electron microscope Aug. 29 in the Center for Microscopy and Imaging, a central laboratory located in the Baylor Sciences Building (BSB). This state-of-the-art flagship microscope is one of a kind in its field, with the capability to magnify objects several million times and image cell membranes, proteins and even atoms.)

The next barrier was creating a stable and pure protein solution. An impure or unstable sample would prevent the cryo-EM from revealing any precise structural information on the MCM8/9 complex. Trakselis and his team tried several approaches to expressing and purifying various constructs of MCM8/9, but they were of low purity and solubility. After much trial and error, the team ultimately tried insect cells for expression of this human protein, which finally resulted in stable pure protein that allowed cryo-EM imaging of the MCM8/9 complex.

With the barriers removed, Trakselis and his team were able to unravel the structure of MCM8/9 bound to its substrate product, ADP.

For Trakselis this is only the beginning. There are more questions to be answered.

"We described the basic structure-function relationship, but we don't know what it does in the cellular level and in what context," Trakselis said.
MTN Group CEO Ralph Mupita (third, from left) met with Cameroons Prime Minster Joseph Dion Ngute (second, from left) to reiterate the operators commitment to invest in the countrys telecoms sector, despite the operator seeing its accounts frozen and garnished since last year.

The two met at the BRICS summit in Johannesburg. Mupita said: Cameroon is a key market for MTN Group. Our local operation, MTN Cameroon, is committed to the development of the digital economy of Cameroon and to this end, has committed over the next three years, an investment of more than US$200 million towards technology and network services, and US$25 million towards strengthening the fintech business through the subsidiary Mobile Money Corporation."

MTN Cameroon had its accounts frozen in September 2022 due to a dispute regarding a loan, a move that MTN had noted had been affecting its operation and relationship with investors and other stakeholders. Mupita requested the prime ministers guidance on the matter to fastrack a resolution, who in turn pledged to have the matter resolved speedily and fairly.
Delhi University has started the round one for spot admissions. Today at 5 PM, candidates on the official website can check the vacant seats and apply accordingly. Incase less seats are available in the Delhi University spot round, candidates have to look for other options in order to avoid wastage of a year. Interested candidates for Delhi University spot round can check vacant seats from admission.uod.ac.in.

Also Read- Delhi University UG Admissions: Only 5100 Seats Left to be Filled After 3 Rounds of Allotment

Delhi University Spot Round Admission: Steps To Apply

Step 1- Visit the official website, admission.uod.ac.in

Step 2- Under announcements section in the homepage, candidates can look for the link that mentions vacant seats for Delhi University spot round one admissions.

Step 3- Select the link once you find.

Step 4- The pdf will automatically get downloaded on your device.

Step 5- Candidates are advised to thoroughly check the Delhi University spot round file and look for all the colleges and courses with their vacant seats.

For a safer side, candidates can also look for other options to get their favorable course. Delhi University has already given admission to 65,532 students till third round in UG courses. Candidates will have time till tomorrow to apply for the Delhi University spot round one admissions. No extra chance will be given after the deadline is completed for the Delhi University spot round.

On September 1 at 5 PM, Delhi University will release the acquired seats for spot round admission. Candidates applied for the admission in Delhi University spot round will have time till September 3 to accept the seat. For fee payment option, applicants have to complete the procedure till September 5 at 4:49 PM. Incase, a student is failed to complete the process, they might not get a confirmed seat in the college they opted for.

Meanwhile, the recent Common Seat Allocation System (CSAS) round 3 saw the allotment of seats to approximately 24,178 students. Out of the students who were allotted seats, a total of 17,284 of them confirmed their allocated positions. Following the verification of applications, colleges proceeded to admit 12,750 applicants. According to the designated schedule, Delhi University has already commenced classes for the 2023-24 batch on August 16. The university offers approximately 70,000 seats across a diverse array of undergraduate programmes.
Bihars daughter, Eva Tiwari, is currently making headlines as she has hoisted the flag of success in Delhi. So today, lets take a look at her success story. Eva topped the Common University Entrance Test (CUET). So, now she has got admission to one of Indias most reputed colleges, Delhi Universitys St. Stephens. Entering this college is the dream of lakhs of students. But Eva has nailed this success with her dedication and hard work.

Eva scored 100 percentile in all six subjects in CUET. This feat was achieved by only four students in the country. In a recent media interaction, Eva gave credit for her success to her mother and NCERT books. Talking to News18, Eva said, I started preparing for this exam during Class 12. During this time, I only used to rely on NCERT books, and the result is in front of all of you.

Eva further said that her mother inspired her a lot to focus on her studies. She added, Apart from this when I used to use my mobile more, my mother came and explained to me that now my work is only to study.

Evas mother, Aarti Tiwari, shared that Eva has been very good at studying since childhood. Eva got 98.4 per cent marks in the Class 10 exams and 97.8 per cent marks in Class 12. She said that there is no life-goal plan yet. Now I will go to college, study well, understand what I will like, and then take a decision accordingly. There is no pressure from my family on this either. The way to choose a career is open, Eva added.

Last year, Delhi boy Ishaan Shahabadi topped the Common University Entrance Test (CUET) and fulfilled his dream. He secured 800 out of 800 marks in CUET UG 2022, and he is currently pursuing a BA (Hons) in English at St. Stephens. As per reports, due to his keen interest in politics, he wishes to pursue a career in journalism or civil services in the future.
The Directorate of Medical Education and Research (DMER), Shimla released the final merit list for the Himachal Pradesh NEET PG Counselling 2023 for Round 2 on August 28. Candidates can access the final merit list on the official website at amruhp.ac.in. The final overall merit list, available in a pdf format, includes details like  Overall merit number, application number, NEET roll number, First Name, Admission Quota, Category Reservation, NEET score, MBBS All India Merit Rank, and NEET score + incentives.

According to the schedule, candidates can exercise their choice filling and locking option for the Himachal Pradesh NEET PG Counselling 2023 Round 2 from August 29 to September 1.

On August 26, the Directorate released the Himachal Pradesh NEET PG provisional quota-wise category-wise merit list as well as the provisional quota-wise merit list. Candidates were allowed to raise objections to the provisional merit list. The deadline to challenge the objections was August 27.

Through the Himachal Pradesh NEET PG Counselling 2023, admissions will be conducted for Doctor of Medicine (MD), Masters in Surgery (MS), Diplomate in National Board (DNB), and Master of Dental Surgery (MDS) programmes under the 85 per cent State Quota seats.

Himachal Pradesh NEET PG 2023 Final Merit List (Round 2): How To Download

Step 1: Go to DMER Shimla at amruhp.ac.in.

Step 2: On the homepage, go to the Latest Notification section.

Step 3: Then click on the link that says  Final Overall Merit list for MDS 2nd round counselling 2023.

Step 4: The HP NEET UG merit list will appear on the screen in PDF format.

Step 5: Search for your name, NEET Roll Number, Application Number and others on the list provided.

Step 6: Those who find their names on the merit list are advised to download it for further admission process.

Himachal Pradesh NEET PG 2023: Schedule

Issue of final Himachal Pradesh NEET PG merit list 2023: August 28

Choice filling & locking date: August 29 to September 1.

Release of provisional seat allocation list: September 7.

Release of final seat allocation list: September 8.

Reporting to allotted colleges: September 10 to September 11.

Display of vacant seats: September 12.

Filling out of application form for round 3: September 13 to September 15.

Release of provisional merit list: September 18.

During the reporting to college process, candidates will have to carry a set of required documents. The links include:

 Class 10 and 12 marksheet/pass certificate.

 NEET PG admit card and result

 Qualifying MBBS degree/marksheet

 Internship completion certificate.

 Domicile certificate, if required.

 Disability certificate (if applicable)

 EWS certificate (if applicable).
A few years ago, there were only a handful of Indian students who went to France to continue their higher studies. But post-Covid, there has been a sudden increase in the number of students going to study there, says Emmanuel Lebrun-Damiens, director of the French Institute in India and Counsellor at the French Embassy for Culture, Education and Science.

Lebrun-Damiens has also served as the Deputy Ambassador in New Zealand, negotiator at the United Nations in New York, and a Consul General in San Francisco. He also worked at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Paris as Head of the department in charge of health, education, and gender issues.

In an interview with News18, Lebrun-Damiens talks about India and France relations in the education sector, how France tackles illegal student migrants, challenges in Indian student visa applications, student exchange programmes, and much more.

Excerpts from the interview:

Q. India and Frances relations both in terms of geopolitics and in particular to the education sector have seen a steady increase. After 2030, how do you see the bilateral relations in the education sector?

A. First is student mobility which is a huge endeavour. The challenge is to diversify the programmes for Indian students and to make sure that they enjoy and benefit from the diversity offered by the students. As we increase the number of opportunities for Indian students we would like to see more diversification of the courses. Thats really the top of our priorities.

Q. Lately two Australian Universities Deakin and Wollongong have confirmed that their campuses will be set in Gujarats GIFT city. Is something on a similar line planned by France also?

A. There are partnerships between some Indian and French universities that provide joint programmes and dual degrees. This way, students both from India and France receive the same knowledge and get the benefits of dual degrees. We believe that these joint degrees are more pragmatic and flexible than establishing a university.

Q. France is eventually transforming into a one-stop destination for Indian students to study and even for employment purposes. What policies your government has adopted for Indian students that have attracted them?

A. The relations between the two countries were good as in the past as they are now. We want to develop people-to-people relationships and we consider the best way to do that is through student mobility. For the last 6-8 years, the top of our programmes has been in operation here. We are increasing specific programmes for India. We are adapting to the best care of Indian needs in France. When PM Modi went to France for Bastille Day, the message of the French Government was we would do everything so as to have 30,000 Indian students studying in France by the year 2030. Today when an Indian goes to a French University through scholarships, only 30 per cent of the cost is borne by a student, and 70 per cent is taken care of by French taxpayers.

Q. In 2020, it was decided that the number and quality of student exchanges would increase with an aim to reach 10,000. What has been the progress in this segment and is there any new target to increase student exchange?

A. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, we reached the target. Prior to the pandemic, some 9,000-10,000 Indian students went to France for higher studies. Several Indian students leave the host country and come to France for all types of courses like six months, or four years. We have thus perhaps already reached 10,000 to 20,000 Indian students in France. The next target is to reach 30,000 Indian students who are coming to French universities.

Q. Many French Universities have secured a place in the Shanghai Index Ranking 2023. Despite this, the number of Universities in QS University Ranking 2023 and in the World University Rankings are comparably less. How the country is working to improve its universities ranking especially on the parameters of employer reputation and citations per faculty.

A. 45 French institutions are ranked in the latest Times Higher Education World University Ranking, and 35 in the QS World University Ranking 2024. France has even moved up one place in this ranking compared with 2023, to 7th place in the world ranking of the best universities, behind the United States, Great Britain, Australia, China, Hong Kong, and South Korea.

If we look at the more thematic rankings, the results are even better. For example, France is very well placed in the rankings of young universities (institutions that have been in existence for less than 50 years). One French institution, PSL, is in third place in the Times Higher Education Young Universities 2023 ranking. Five French institutions feature in the top 20, including Institut Polytechnique de Paris (8th), Universite Paris Cite (11th), Universite Paris-Saclay (12th), and Sorbonne Universite (15th).

Another example of French academic excellence is Frances dominance in management rankings. Since 2005, the Financial Times has published a ranking of the best Masters in Management (MiM). 24 French masters are singled out in the last MiM ranking, including 13 schools in the top 50, and four in the top 10: HEC Paris (2nd), followed by ESSEC (5th), ESCP (6th) and EMLyon Business School (9th).

Recognition of the excellence of French higher education is also reflected in the employability of its graduates. With 18 institutions ranked, including 11 in the top 100 of the Global University Employability Ranking 2022 published by the Times Higher Education, France is in 2nd place worldwide after the United States and ahead of Germany and the UK.

Q. Every year lakhs of Indian students visit the US and UK but compared to them, the number of students visiting France is much lower. What are the lacunas in this sphere and how is the French government working on it?

A. Student mobility to the United States or Great Britain is difficult to compare with student mobility to France for several reasons, which include the language barrier and the sizes of the Indian diaspora across these three countries (according to the Ministry of External Affairs, there are 4,460,000, 1,764,000, and 109,000 overseas Indians in the US, UK, and France respectively).

The French government has implemented multiple strategies to encourage young Indian students to consider France as a study destination. Without being exhaustive, these encompass a range of initiatives such as heavily subsidised tuition fees in public educational institutions, comprehensive support systems including housing assistance and social security, appealing scholarship programmes, the establishment of a wide array of programmes taught totally in English (more than 1,600 programmes), the introduction of international classes dedicated to assisting students opting for programmes in French, the establishment of numerous academic partnerships between French and Indian institutions (exceeding 600 to date), and a favourable policy on student employment both during their academic tenure and post-graduation.

Q. The process for the long-stay visa is quite cumbersome for the students. What is the embassy doing to simplify the selection procedure and reduce the time limit along with a smooth passage?

A. We make every effort to speed up the procedure. We have human resources and other means to speed up the process. My recommendation is to apply as soon as you can. Students leave in September for the universitys longer programme and for shorter courses throughout the year.

Q. Many students connect with agencies to submit their visa application leaving them paying a hefty sum of amount. In other cases, students are also duped. How accessible the selection procedure is for students?

A. If anyone wants to go to France, they do not need to connect with an agent. They can contact the Campus France and get help with all that an agent will do. An Indian student who wishes to study in France can contact Campus France. Thats the service we offer.

Q. Which courses have been more popular among Indian students and which are least opted by applicants?

A. A large number of Indian students study management and business in France. It is long majority of Indian students with 70-75 per cent of students opting for management courses. This tells us about the quality of our management courses. There is a lot of progression in the engineering schools and they are not expensive. A large majority of the tuition fees are taken care of by taxpayers for students with scholarships. Further, after completing a course, if a student wishes they can go for higher education and jobs as well. Earlier, the post-study work policy is for two years while students can obtain a 5-year Schengen visa. Both India and France are big countries of sciences and mathematics. The subjects play a huge role in the curriculum of France and India. We are creating a French Indian campus on life sciences for health between the universities of the two countries.
Rakhi Sawant is currently in the news following the allegation made by her ex-husband Adil Durrani. She is on a holy pilgrimage in Mecca, Madina wherein she is doing Umrah. Many pictures and videos have gone viral on social media. Amidst this, a video has surfaced wherein she can be seen crying while praying to the god. In no time fans reacted and called it nautanki.

In the video, shared by Viral Bhayani, Rakhi Sawant is seen kneeling in prayer and crying loudly. She addresses Adil Khan Durrani and accuses him of destroying her life by marrying her for stepping into Bollywood. She then asks the Almighty to help her at this time of crisis. One of the fans wrote, Kam se kam udhar jake to apne allah par dhyan laga lo waha bhi video bana rhi ho apni. Another wrote, Isne apni life ko movie samaj liya pagali khud hi director,writer, lead & khud hi junior artist Koi isko cut bolo.. Kaise religious place par b drama chaalu hain.humble request to Instagram please ban her from Instagram abh hamse dekha nahi jaata.

Watch the video here:

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Viral Bhayani (@viralbhayani)

The Bigg Boss fame has accused Adil of hacking and disabling her Instagram account. Not just this, Rakhi has also claimed that Adil and Rajshree (who once used to be her best friend) have been torturing her. Adil and Rajshree hacked my Instagram account. They dont let me eat or sleep. They have been torturing me. I have been visiting the police station too. I have a flight to catch at 6 am. Adil has been torturing me a lot. Rajshree too, Rakhi said while speaking to the paparazzi recently.

For the unversed, Rakhi Sawants ex-husband, Adil Khan Durrani was picked up from her residence and arrested on February 7 this year after the Bigg Boss fame levelled several allegations against him and accused him of being involved in extramarital affairs.

However, he recently walked out of the Mysore jail. After getting free from jail, Adil spoke to the media and levelled several allegations against his former wife. In an interview with Bollywood Bubble, he talked about Rakhis claims of miscarriage and claimed that the actress could not get pregnant. He alleged that Rakhi had gotten a uterus-removal surgery. Adil also claimed Rakhi was still married to Ritesh (her first husband) when she married him.

Rakhis BFF Rajshree More also joined Adil and then filed a police complaint against the actress.
Rupali Ganguly aka Anupamaa has touched the hearts of fans once again, but this time not through her on-screen performance. On her mother Rajani Gangulys birthday, Rupali shared a touching video montage, capturing her cherished moments with her family. The video not only showcased the actress strong bond with her mother but also captured the special moments she spent with her son, husband, and even their furry family member.

The heartwarming video featured snapshots of Rajani Ganguly sharing candid moments with her grandson, Rudransh, as well as candid captures with her son-in-law and their adorable pet dog. Sharing the video, the actress wrote, Happy Birthday Mummy. For supporting my decision to become an actor, thank you. Thank you for the million other things that you have done for me always. Love you forever. May you be healthy and happy always.

The heartfelt post not only moved her fans but also garnered an outpouring of birthday wishes for Rajani Ganguly. One user wrote, On this special day, I honor you, For the love that shaped RGMs view, while another user wrote, Happy Happy Birthday Aunty! The woman behind the stars, whose love and support have made all the difference.

Earlier, Rupali Ganguly celebrated the tenth birthday of her son Rudraansh. The doting mother organised an adventure-filled day at Imagica, an amusement park along the Mumbai-Pune expressway. Alongside Rudraanshs friends, the group enjoyed the thrilling rides and activities the park had to offer. Rupali made sure everyone had a memorable time as she was spotted sharing laughter and cheers with the young party-goers. The festivities were captured in a series of photos and videos shared on Rupalis Instagram Stories. Among these images was a snapshot of Rudraansh beaming as he cut into a delectable chocolate cake, surrounded by his friends and family.

For those unaware, Rupali Ganguly was born to the accomplished film director Anil Ganguly and Rajani Ganguly. Her journey started at the tender age of seven, marking her debut in her fathers film Saaheb in 1985. Her television career started with her debut in the show Sukanya. However, it was her exceptional portrayal of Monisha Sarabhai in the iconic sitcom Sarabhai vs. Sarabhai that elevated her to the realms of widespread fame and stardom.

Presently, the actress is seen playing the lead role of Anupama in the popular show Anupamaa.
Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari on Tuesday unveiled a 100 percent ethanol-fueled variant of Toyotas Innova car.

Gadkari launched Toyota Innova car on 100 percent ethanol, making it the worlds first car to run entirely on ethanol.

Gadkari said that he started taking interest in biofuels in 2004 after the petrol price hike in the country and visited Brazil for this purpose. He added that biofuels can do wonders and save a lot of forex which is being spent on the import of petroleum.

First Ethanol-run Vehicle

Nitin Gadkari launched the electric flex-fuel Toyota Innova MPV, which is entirely fueled by ethanol, indicated by E100. The launch is in line with governments push to decrease countrys dependency on imported petroleum.

According to Toyota, the ethanol-fueled variant of Toyota Innova will be the worlds first BS-VI (Stage-II) electrified flex-fuel vehicle. Ethanol is a renewable, domestically produced transportation fuel made from biomass such as corn or sugarcane.

The Union Minister, who has been encouraging automakers to come out with alternative fuel-powered and green vehicles, launched a hydrogen-powered car last year.

Ethanol Flex-fuel Fueled Cars in India

While the world is rapidly switching towards electric-only vehicles, India is evaluating ethanol powered vehicles apart from the electric powered vehicles. India has started working on ethanol flex-fuel vehicles, which are designed to run on more than one fuel.

The flex-fuel is generally gasoline like petroleum blended with either ethanol or methanol fuel, and both fuels are stored in the same common tank.

Today our dream has come true!Launched Indias first Flexi-Fuel Strong Hybrid Electric Vehicles (FFV-SHEV) which would run on 100% petrol as well as 20 to 100% blended ethanol and electric powertain with pic.twitter.com/QmsrnXD1Qx Nitin Gadkari (@nitin_gadkari) October 11, 2022

The official name for flex-fuel is E-85 as it has 85 percent ethanol fuel and 15 percent gasoline or other hydrocarbon by volume.

During Auto Expo in January this year, several cars were showcased which could run on a blend of ethanol and petroleum.

Maruti Suzuki showcased the prototype of WagonR flex-fuel which can run on petrol-ethanol blend of 20 percent and 85 percent. Toyota also showcased the Corolla Altis flex fuel car.

Meanwhile, several motor bikes including Yamaha Fazer FZ-15, Bajaj Pulsar NS160 and Hero Glamour Xtec Flex-Fuel were showcased which can run on ethanol-blended petrol. The higher the amount of ethanol in petrol, the more than price of the fuel could come down.

The flex-fuel is believed to be cheaper than normal petrol or diesel as the government will have to spend less on oil imports. As per reports, Indias imports of petroleum, crude and petroleum products were estimated at a value of over 12 trillion Indian rupees in 2022.

However, the cost of flex-fuel cars will increase by Rs 18,000-25,000, according to a report in The Times of India.

Ethanol E85 Across the Globe

The earliest use of Ethanol E85 was first seen in the UK where Saab launched Saab 9-5 BioPower, a flex-fuel car in 2005. The car was capable of running on either a high-blend mixture of bioethanol and petrol (E85) or just petrol, without any adjustment required by the driver.

Following the launch, Morrisons supermarket opened first BioEthanol E85 filling pump in 2006 as a part of its position being the UKs largest retailer of alternative fuels. However, in 2010 it announced closing all the filling pump.

In 2007, the US under George Bush pledged to reduce Americas dependence on oil with a 20 percent cut in petrol use and a switch to bio-fuels, primarily ethanol. In 2015, eight major manufacturers in the US were offering E85-compatible vehicles. However, as of now only Ford and General Motors are selling new flex-fuel vehicles and most of those models are limited to fleet sales as manufacturers have slowly drifted away from flex-fuel and moved towards EV.

However, ethanol was back in the news when in October 2021, King Charles displayed his Aston Martin, which could run on bioethanol, made from cheese and wine wastes. The car that Charles has owned for five decades was converted to run on a fuel blend made up of 85% bioethanol and 15% unleaded petrol.

Concerns over Ethanol blended fuel

India desperately wants to reduce dependence on imported crude oil, which is a problem for the country as it imports 85 percent of its crude oil. But it raises concerns over food security and water scarcity as food supplies will be diverted for ethanol production.

The ethanol fuel is powered by the sugarcane crop, which requires a lot of water. On an average, one tonne of sugarcane requires about 60-70 tons of water.

Going by the estimates, if the ethanol blend is 20 percent, then India would require 1,016 crore litres of ethanol in 2025. This would put pressure on the sugarcane production, which would seriously affect water supply as a huge amount of water would be required for its irrigation. Moreover, there is also a risk of the corrosion of the engine due to ethanol mixed fuels.
India is all ready to host the G20 Leaders Summit in Delhi next month. With top world leaders including US President Joe Biden, and Chinese President Xi Jinping among others visiting the country for the summit, nearly 3,500 rooms across 35 hotels in Delhi and NCR have been booked to accommodate the comfortable stay of the foreign delegates.

The 18th G20 Heads of State and Government Summit in Delhi on September 8, 9, and 10 will be a culmination of all the G20 processes and meetings held throughout the year among ministers.

Who Will Stay Where

US President Joe Biden, who will be on his maiden visit to India is likely to stay at ITC Maurya, while Chinas President Xi Jinping is likely to stay at Taj Palace, according to top sources privy to the development.

As per media reports, American Secret Service agents will be present on every floor of the hotel where Biden will stay.

Moreover, British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak is likely to stay at the Shangri-La Eros Hotel in New Delhi and French President Emmanuel Macron may stay at Claridges Hotel.

Imperial Hotel may host Australian PM Anthony Albanese while Taj Maan Singh will host dignitaries from the UAE. Saudi dignitaries will stay at Leela. Le Meridien will host different organizations, sources said.

Advance liaison teams from the US, the UK, and China among other countries have already arrived in India for preparations to welcome the top world leaders.

Rooms Booked Across 35 Hotels

A total of 35 hotels in New Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR) have been booked by different missions and the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) for guests and dignitaries who will arrive for the G20 summit on September 9 and 10, according to local sources.

These hotels will be manned by the Delhi Police as the first access control squad for the VIPs and a Deputy Commissioner of Police-level officer will oversee the operations.

Who Is Coming To G20 Summit

India is expecting world leaders and their spouses from the G20 countries and non-G20 member countries invited as guests  Bangladesh, Egypt, Mauritius, Netherlands, Nigeria, Oman, Singapore, Spain, and the United Arab Emirates.

The Group of Twenty (G20) comprises 19 countries (Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Republic of Korea, Mexico, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Turkiye, United Kingdom and United States) and the European Union.

In addition, the heads of 14 international organisations are expected at the summit, including the International Monetary Fund, World Bank, United Nations, Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development, World Trade Organisation, Asian Development Bank, and CDRI.

Countries holding the presidencies of regional organisations, such as the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, African Union, and AUDA-NEPAD will also take part at a leadership level in the G20 summit.
An investigation into the forgery of 100-year-old land documents, and subsequent transactions surrounding it have blown the lid off a multi-crore rupee scam in Jharkhand allegedly involving chief minister Hemant Soren.

This has become the latest flashpoint between the Narendra Modi government and Sorens following the arrest of IAS officer Chhavi Ranjan of 2011 batch Jharkhand cadre in May for the alleged land scam that includes at least 35 land properties allegedly in possession of Soren, top sources in the Enforcement Directorate (ED) told News 18.

Besides, the ED is investigating a stone mining scam for alleged involvement of Soren and his Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) party members. One of his MLAs has been arrested in connection with the case.

Over the last six months, Soren has been summoned by the ED four times in connection with the alleged land and stone mining scams. Soren has appeared in one, while he skipped the remaining and filed a writ petition before the Supreme Court seeking a stay in the investigations.

The ruling JMM, however, has called the investigations, the related raids and summons as a ploy of the Modi government to heckle and harass the Opposition leaders before the crucial meeting of I.N.D.I.A coalition, scheduled on August 31 and September 1 in Mumbai.

Sorens party and his lawyers both dismissed EDs summons and the allegations as mala fide, harassment and politically motivated.

Writ petition against ED probe

The writ petition requesting stay in the ED probe has been filed by Sorens advocate Shweta Singh Parihar in the SC. News18 reached out to her, who said, the writ petition has been filed, but the details cannot be divulged at this point.

Jharkhand governments advocate general (AG) Rajiv Ranjan told News18 that the cases and charges filed by the ED against Soren are baseless and devoid of merit. They are calling the chief minister of a state repeatedly, which is against the federal structure. This is not correct.

On the fresh summons and the case in connection with the land scam, Ranjan commented, They are unnecessarily harassing the chief minister. We have already moved the Supreme Court and filed a writ petition. In the petition, we have mentioned that the actions by the central agency are not legal. There is no evidence against him. The summons are being issued against him with mala fide intentions.

Meanwhile, Supriyo Bhattacharya, general secretary of JMM central committee, told News18, that the cases the central government is indulging in are all politically motivated. We have moved the Supreme Court, filed a writ petition seeking redressal in such cases. We will wait for the court verdict.

Double Trouble for Soren

Soren seems to be facing a double whammy as the ED, which is investigating the stone mining case, has now found evidence allegedly involving him in another fraud on land deeds.

Ranjan was allegedly part of a cartel that forged the 93-year-old land deeds. The land documents of 1931 were forged by a group of senior bureaucrats, local businessmen and land dealers.

The plots in Ranchi were owned by defence, and the government used to get revenue from the land. The land was registered in Kolkata as it used to be the central registry office before Independence, said a senior ED officer.

The cartel forged the land documents, address of the registry office, mentioned West Bengal and a PIN code. However, West Bengal came into existence in 1947 and the PIN Code (system) was introduced in 1972. They forged the land deeds on an individuals name and put these details which led to unearthing of the scam, he added.

While probing the land scam, the investigators found other land properties, documents of which were also forged and are allegedly in possession of the state chief minister, he further said.

A source in ED said the West Bengal government has also started a case in connection with the forged land deeds. However, the FIR has been lodged against unknown persons.

In the stone mining case, the National Green Tribunal (NGT) wrote letters to the Jharkhand government informing them about illegal stone mining in Sahebganj area. The state police lodged around 150 FIRs regarding the transportation from the illegal mines, said a senior ED officer.

We clubbed around 150 FIRs lodged by the state police, and several complaints that came from NGT. The stone mines are illegal. We lodged an Enforcement Case Information Report (ECIR) into the mining scam and the money laundering aspect of it. The CM has been summoned in connection with this case too. He appeared only once, added another senior officer of the ED.
By enacting Article 35A, fundamental rights of equality, liberty to practice profession in any part of the country and others were virtually taken away, Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud has observed.

His remarks came on Monday after Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for the Centre, referred to the contentious provision in the Indian Constitution. Mehta said it gave special rights to only permanent residents of the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir and was discriminatory.

The Centre, without naming the two mainstream political parties of the erstwhile state, told a five-judge bench headed by CJI Chandrachud that citizens have been misguided that the special provisions for Jammu and Kashmir were not discrimination but a privilege.

Even today two political parties are before this court defending Article 370 and 35A, the solicitor general told the top court on the 11th day of hearing the litany of pleas challenging the abrogation of the constitutional provision which bestowed special status to the erstwhile state of J-K.

The solicitor general further submitted that the effect of Article 370 was such that by the administrative act of the President and the state government, any part of the Constitution of India with respect to J-K can be amended, altered or even destroyed and new provisions can be created.

He said that after the 42nd amendment, the words Socialist and Secular were not made applicable to Jammu and Kashmir. Even the word Integrity is not there. Fundamental duties were not there, which exists in the Indian Constitution.

The Jammu and Kashmir Constitution provided for a separate provision for permanent residents of J-K in Article 7. It removed references to Scheduled Tribes from Article 15(4). Other Articles 19, 22, 31, 31A and 32 were applied with some modifications, Mehta said.

On Article 35A, he said it was discriminatory, to say the least. Under the provision (A-35A), people like sanitation workers working in the erstwhile state for decades were not given equal rights like that of permanent residents of J-K.

This discrimination continued till the provision was abrogated in 2019. Non-permanent residents of J-K were not able to purchase lands, could not avail scholarship, employment in the state government, he said, urging the court to look into issues from the eyes of people.

CJI Chandrachud deciphering Mehtas submissions said that by enacting Article 35A, you virtually took away fundamental rights of equality, liberty to practice profession in any part of the country and even granted immunity from legal challenges and the power of judicial review.

The Solicitor General said, People were misguided by those  who were supposed to guide them  that this was not a discrimination but a privilege. Even today two political parties are before this court defending Article 370 and 35A. Mehta submitted that the Constitution of Jammu and Kashmir needed to be repealed because it could not co-exist with the Indian constitution.

The apex court also prima facie agreed with the Centres submission on pleas challenging the abrogation of Article 370 that the Constitution of Jammu and Kashmir is subordinate to the Indian Constitution, which is on a higher pedestal.

The bench, however, did not seem to agree with the plea that the Constituent Assembly of the erstwhile state, which was disbanded in 1957, was in reality a legislative assembly.

(With inputs from PTI)
A frustrated China is resorting to all sorts of propaganda a week before the arrival of President Xi Jinping and other world leaders for the G20 Summit in New Delhi, top Indian government sources told News18 as Beijing officially released the 2023 edition of its standard map incorporating the disputed areas, including its claims over Arunachal Pradesh.

The release of the controversial map comes just days after Prime Minister Narendra Modi met President Xi at the BRICS Summit in South Africa. Apart from Arunachal Pradesh, the map reflects Chinese claims over the Aksai Chin region, Taiwan and the disputed South China Sea.

India has repeatedly said that the state of Arunachal Pradesh has always been and will always be an integral part of the country.

China is frustrated and doing all sorts of propaganda. The release of the map just a week after PM Modi met Xi and a week before the G20 Summit in India suggests its intentions. The world knows they are expansionist and have occupied territories the world over illegally, a top official said. Arunachal is an integral part of India and the Chinese map is illegal, the official added.

The 2023 edition of Chinas standard map was officially released on Monday and launched on the website of the standard map service hosted by the Ministry of Natural Resources, state-run Global Times said in a post on X, formerly Twitter. This map is compiled based on the drawing method of the national boundaries of China and various countries in the world, the post said.

The map also displayed by the Global Times showed Arunachal Pradesh, which China claims as South Tibet, and Aksai Chin occupied by it in the 1962 war. India has repeatedly told China that Arunachal Pradesh was, is and will always remain an integral and inalienable part of India. The map also incorporated Chinas claims over the estranged island of Taiwan and the nine-dash line claiming a large part of the South China Sea.

China claims Taiwan as part of its mainland and its integration with the mainland is part of a vowed objective of Chinese President Xi Jinping. Vietnam, the Philippines, Malaysia, Brunei and Taiwan have counterclaims over the South China Sea areas.
The two-year-old child who stopped breathing on a New Delhi-bound Vistara flight and was revived by a team of AIIMS, Delhi, doctors mid-air, is in critical stage on a ventilator at a hospital in Nagpur, where the flight made an emergency landing after a distress call on board.

The child has a heart problem and is on several life-saving drugs, according to a media brief issued by Deputy General Manager (Communications) of Nagpur-based KIMS-Kingsway Hospitals Aejaz Shami, where she is admitted.

Late night on August 27, a critical medical situation arose involving an infant passenger travelling on Flight No. UK814 of Vistara Airlines from Bangalore to Delhi, the statement read.

The incident happened onboard Vistara Airline flight UK-814 on Sunday, in which five senior resident doctors of All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) were returning to Delhi from the Indian Society for Vascular and Interventional Radiology (ISVIR).

In a remarkable display of preparedness and professionalism, co-passengers from medical backgrounds on board promptly initiated life-saving measures by providing CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) to the baby passenger, the statement said.

As the situation got critical, the airline team efficiently coordinated with Nagpur airport authorities for an emergency landing in Nagpur.

At current, the patient is admitted under a Senior Consultant in Paediatrics and Neonatology. The patient is unconscious and in the critical stage on a ventilator and on several life-saving drugs. The parents and relatives are regularly counselled, said the statement.

Cardiopulmonary resuscitation is a lifesaving technique used if someone is not breathing normally or their heart has stopped (cardiac arrest).

Earlier on Monday, in a post on the microblogging site X (formerly Twitter), AIIMS Delhi shared the details about the incident along with images of the baby and the doctors.

The hospital said that after the female child stopped breathing on the flight, doctors on board resuscitated her for 45 minutes while the flight was routed to Nagpur, where she was handed over in stable hemodynamic to the pediatrician.
In a horrifying incident in Bengaluru, a scientist from a prestigious institute was pursued and assaulted by a group of four unidentified miscreants on bikes. The attackers smashed his cars windshield and rear glass around midnight on August 24.

The situation came to light when Ashutosh Singh, a scientist affiliated with the Centre for Nano and Soft Matter Sciences (CeNS), took to Twitter to recount the harrowing experience.

A narrow escape from local goons on Aug 24, 12:45 AM at Rauthanahalli Main road. They tried stopping my car, chased with swords, shattering back glass. Traumatized by the delayed police response. Seeking justice, lodging FIR at Madnayakanahalli PS today. urgent action is needed! pic.twitter.com/xPxmqhLiiS Ashutosh Singh (@ashuvishen) August 27, 2023

According to his account, he was trailed by four assailants on motorcycles for several kilometers, subjected to threats, and then his cars windshield and rear glass were shattered using swords at 12:45am on Ravuthanahalli Road in northwestern Bengaluru on August 24.

Ashutosh posted a picture of his damaged car alongside a caption that stated, A narrow escape from local goons on Aug 24, 12:45am at Rauthanahalli Main road. They tried stopping my car, chased with swords, shattering back glass. Traumatized by the delayed police response. Seeking justice, lodging FIR at Madanayakanahalli PS today. Urgent action is needed! The post urged swift action from the police.

The Madanayakanalli police have filed an FIR against the four unidentified miscreants under sections of criminal intimidation and wrongful confinement. Recognizing the severity of the incident, Traffic ADGP Alok Kumar deemed it a grave matter and pledged rigorous action against the culprits.
The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) filed a case against officials of different government agencies and banks in the Rs 144 crore scholarship scheme scam.

As per the FIR filed by CBI, the Ministry of Minority Affairs has highlighted the case of an alleged Rs 144.33 crore scam against unnamed officials with regard to the distribution of minority scholarships.

The FIR has been filed under sections 120B, read with 420, 468, and 461 of the Indian Penal Code and 13 (2), 13 (1)(c), and (d) of the PC Act 1988. The charges include criminal conspiracy, cheating, forgery, using forged documents as genuine, and criminal misconduct.

The suspected accused include unnamed officials of the government, officials of several PSU banks, and nodal officers of 830 different institutions. This case will be investigated in 18 states.

Scholarship Scam in 21 States: Lens on Madrasas, Tribal Schools as Funds Siphoned Off, Says Source | Exclusive

The complaint states that for the last 5 years, between the years 2017-22, approximately 65 lakh students received minority scholarships every year from the central government under 3 different schemes namely: Pre-Matric Scholarships, Post-Matric Scholarships, and Merit- cum-Means for the students of Six Minority Communities i.e. Muslims, Christian, Sikhs, Jains, Buddhists and Parasis. These scholarships are all DBT schemes where students receive funds directly into their bank accounts.

After receiving reports of fund embezzlement, the ministry has engaged the National Council of Applied Economic Research (NCAER) to carry out Third Party Evaluation of the Scholarship Scheme. An evaluation was also carried out through the national scholarship portal to flag suspicious institutions and applications.

Based on the evaluation, a total of 830 institutions were found to be fake, partially fake, or non-operational. The total loss to the exchequer has been estimated at Rs 144.33 crores.

The Ministry of Minority Affairs said a total of 1,572 institutes were identified for evaluation based on red flags generated on the National Scholarship Portal (NSP). Out of 1,572 institutions from 21 states, 830 institutions are found either non-operational or fake or partial fake, it said.

The most striking irregularity was found at the school/institution level, where the team came across many institutions which are completely non-operational but are availing the benefits of the scheme, the ministry said.

Many schools from states like West Bengal have most applicants listed as fake are either from operating primary or pre-primary classes or no minority students studying in the schools, it said. The ministry has estimated the approximate loss to the exchequer by counting financial implications for the period from 2017-18 to 2021-22 for the institutes that are identified as fake and found a loss of Rs 144.33 crore to the exchequer, against these 830 institutes, it said.

(With PTI inputs)
With about 10 days to go for the G20 summit in Delhi, the Indian Air Force, the Delhi police, and the paramilitary forces have spread out across the national capital to secure the high-profile event. Sources told CNN-News18 that the secretary (security) met all the stakeholders on Tuesday to finalise the security aspects of the G20 meeting scheduled from September 8 to 10 in Delhi.

While Delhi Police is the nodal agency, the support of paramilitary forces has also been sought to augment the manpower. CRPF will provide VIP security, SSB spouse security, while all units of NSGfrom anti-terror to anti-sabotage to anti-drone and CBRN (Chemical, Biological, Radiation and Nuclear)have been put on standby in case of any exigency.

Challenges

The NSG has been roped in for anti-terror and anti-sabotage operations. Bomb Disposal, anti-drone, and anti-biological and chemical weapon units are on standby. The anti-drone units with specialised guns and jamming devices have been deployed at the summit venue, CNN-News18 has learnt.

But it is securing the hotels that is proving to be a challenge. US President Joe Biden is expected to stay at ITC Maurya, Chinese President Xi Jinping at Taj Palace, UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak at Shangri-La, and French President Emmanuel Macron at The Oberoi. The Imperial, Leela Palace, Taj Mansingh, The Lalit, and The Claridges are some of the other hotels in the New Delhi area that will host top dignitaries.

While intelligence agencies and police have carried out thorough background checks of staff members and issued specific access cards for specific floors, the Indian Air Force and NSGs task is cut out in case building intervention is required. The rooftops of the hotels where dignitaries will stay are being recced to see if chopper landing and slithering is possible in emergency situations. Some hotels have junk on rooftops which can become flying missiles if a chopper whirls over them. Some other hotels have solar panels on top, leaving very little space while one hotel has pillars on the roof making it unfit for chopper landing, a security grid officer told News18.

IAF and NSG will carry out slithering drills in the next two days over designated hotels to see if the buildings are equipped in case commandos have to be air-dropped for an emergency.

Similar drills in open grounds have already been carried out at Pitampura in west Delhi and Akshardham Temple in the east.

1,000 specially trained commandos

About 1,000 CRPF personnel have received specialised training for proximate security at the forces academy in Noida over the past two months. The personnel chosen for specialised training have prior SPG or NSG experience. A refresher course in VIP security has been given to those who have handled high-profile VIPs in their previous stints with SPG or NSG. It is almost like the 10-week training that is given to commandos. Soft skills have also been imparted about cultural sensibilities of the 18 countries whose delegates are expected to visit, an officer dealing with VIP security told CNN-News18.

CRPF in collaboration with Delhi police is responsible for the security of the Bharat Mandapam G20 venue and the dignitaries at hotels. All the drivers who will be part of the carcade will be from CRPF. Multiple backup vehicles have been kept ready to ferry the dignitaries. The specially trained personnel have started moving to Delhis NCC grounds for full rehearsals ahead of the summit.

Friendly faces at summit venue

Close to 4,000 Delhi policemen are expected to be deployed at the Pragati Maidan venue of the G20 summit but most would be in plain clothes. Officials said the decision was taken because the presence of so many uniformed men and women could have made security an in your face concern.

1,300 plainclothes Delhi policemen and 400 traffic police personnel could also be deployed outside the summit venue.
A day after pro-Khalistan graffiti appeared at multiple spots and metro stations in Delhi, security in the national capital has been beefed up though sources said no fresh input has been raised by Intelligence agencies.

Apart from additional paramilitary forces, senior officers of districts have been divided into three shifts and they will be on the move in their areas to check such incidents, News18 has learnt.

On Sunday, controversial pro-Khalistan slogans were seen at Shivaji Park, Madipur, Paschim Vihar, Udyog Nagar, Maharaja Surajmal Stadium, Government Sarvodya Bal Vidyalaya Nangloi, Punjabi Bagh and Nangloi metro stations. Videos of the slogans were also sent to top Khalistani terrorists based in US and Canada and then a compiled video was released, threatening the security grid of the country ahead of G20.

The graffiti incident has triggered concerns in the national capital ahead of the G20 summit in which global leaders, including US President Joe Biden, will visit Delhi.

According to sources, the top brass of Delhi Police has decided that while senior officers will be available in the district, mid-level officials and staff have been given dedicated places to look after. This includes markets, metro stations and other key places. Some areas have been divided into zones where Delhi Police officials have been given charge to keep a track on patrolling.

Apart from this, close to two dozen companies of paramilitary forces have been deployed in New Delhi and West Delhi which are more prone to Khalistani activities.

No Proper Alert

A senior Delhi Police official responsible for the law and order situation in the capital told News18 that there was no specific input regarding such activities. The alert which districts received was regarding Independence Day on August 15  a routine affair. Also, there was no information that pro-Khalistan entities (PKEs) are planning activities in Delhi to dent the countrys image.

The latest input reviewed by News18 talks about various threats which Intelligence agencies warn against in frequent intervals or on any special occasions like Republic Day, Independence Day etc. There was no input which hinted about any probable activities by PKEs.

However, sources in the Intelligence Bureau claimed that the input which was shared with all was enough, in detail and had information about PKEs graffiti move.

Now, after the incident, officials are claiming that for the next almost two weeks, Delhi-specific inputs will be shared and their frequency will also be increased.

Meanwhile, it is expected that other parts of Delhi will also witness more mobilisation of forces as G20 guests will be visiting various places across the national capital. A detailed plan will be discussed with the Centre this week as a meeting is scheduled.
Dramatic visuals emerged from the Mantralaya building in Mumbai on Tuesday where farmers were protesting against the Maharashtra government demanding compensation for their land.

Some farmers jumped from the first floor of the Mantralaya building (state secretariat) to land on a protection net.

Dramatic scenes emerge from Government headquarters in Mumbai as protesting farmers climb on safety net installed in the building. News18s @mayuganapatye reports live @JamwalNews18 | #Maharashtra #FarmersProtest #Farmers pic.twitter.com/184Xe9fSfW News18 (@CNNnews18) August 29, 2023

Some farmers have been detained and sent to Marine Drive police station. State Minister Dadaji Bhuse spoke to protesting farmers inside the Mantralaya building, ANI reported.

Former Maharashtra CM Prithviraj Chavan said that overall the administrative machinery in the state has completely collapsed.

Farmers were protesting against the City and Industrial Development Corporations (CIDCO) land pooling from locals.

NCP leader Rohit Pawar said that the government should hear the problems being faced by the farmers.

If the government had heard the voices of the farmers before they jumped (on the protective net in Mantralaya), then such a thing would not have happened today. The government should hear the problems being faced by the farmers despite the fact that doing such a protest in Mantralaya is not right. The drought situation in Maharashtra is dangerous, he said.

Meanwhile, Maharashtra CM Eknath Shinde said a resolution of farmers issues will be found.

I had called the farmers here today. They have had a meeting with (State Minister) Dada Bhuse. A review of their issues will be done in 15 days and a resolution will be found, he said.

Earlier on Monday, several farmers protested in front of MLA Vinod Agrawals office in Gondia city in Maharashtra on Monday seeking his intervention for immediate release of pending payment by a cooperative society for procurement of paddy.

The society had allegedly procured 28,059 quintals of paddy worth Rs 5.72 crore from more than 400 farmers but failed to comply with marketing federation norms, the agitators claimed. A police complaint was lodged against 11 directors and four employees of the society but no arrest has been made so far, they said.

MLA Agrawal met the farmers and assured them to raise the matter with authorities. However, the sit-in agitation continued till evening.

(With PTI inputs)
Nearly six months after Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Shivamogga airport in the run-up to the assembly elections earlier this year, commercial operations will begin at the airport from August 31. Flight of Indigo Airlines will be the first to land at 11:05 a.m.

The Indigo flight is scheduled to depart from Bengalurus Kempe Gowda International Airport at 9:50 a.m. and arrive at the Shivamogga Airport at 11:05 a.m. Once the flight lands, there will be a celebratory Water Canon Salute.

The Shivamogga airport was the long-standing dream of the four-time Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa. During the inauguration of the airport in February 2023, the senior BJP leader also said that the airport spread across 758 acres, built at a cost of around Rs 450 crore, will help the Malnad (region around the Western Ghats of Karnataka) and Central Karnataka. The Shivamogga district is also the home district of BS Yediyurappa.

Glad to have inaugurated the airport in Shivamogga. pic.twitter.com/I3cLj2y4n2 Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 27, 2023

Among the passengers on this inaugural flight will be ministers MB Patil, Madhu Bangarappa, former Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa, MP BY Raghavendra, and other public representatives from the Malnad region.

Speaking about the commercial operations, Karnataka Infrastructure Development Minister MB Patil on Tuesday said, Shivamogga airport will become the first airport run by the state government. It is expected to contribute significantly to the economic, industrial, tourism and educational development of the region.

The minister also added that the initial response to the flight service has been positive, with tickets booked in advance for the next three weeks. The flights will also benefit people from the surrounding districts of Chikkamagalu, Davangere, Chitradurga, and Haveri. The subsequent focus will be connecting destinations like Delhi, Hyderabad, Tirupati, Chennai, and Goa by offering direct flight services.

Patil also informed that the tender has already been floated under the UDAN scheme to expand services from Shivamogga.

The Shivamogga airport is designed like a lotus flower and it is suitable for A-320-type aircraft. Initially, there was a controversy regarding the naming of the airport as many BJP leaders wanted the airport to be named after BJP senior leader BS Yediyurappa. But the former Chief Minister declined and proposed to name it after famous Kannada poet and Jnanpith awardee Kuvempu.
On the sidelines of the G20 summit in New Delhi from September 8-10, Atul Keshap, president of the US-India Business Council (USIBC), tells News18 exclusively how the whole world, including people in the United States, is betting on Indias rise".

ALSO READ | G20 Summit in Delhi: Joe Biden at ITC Maurya, Xi Jinping At Taj | Whos Staying Where

The G20 year gives a wind of hope to the world regarding how the future of the 21st century might be. I was there when PM Modi made a speech at the B20 event, and it was clear what India means for itself and for the world," said Keshap.

India is espousing a positive future for humanity, a vision of free people who can live their best lives and can leverage technologies, digital platforms, etc. to ensure that they can live in an environmentally sustainable way. The G20 vision is positive, and you have a lot of appreciation from the people in the United States for how you have done it. All the events that have gone well and all meetings around the country also show how it is Indias breakout moment," he added.

Edited excerpts:

Since the visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Washington DC, there has been a lot of positivity and optimism. How does the US business community view Indias presidency of the G20?

We have all been through a tough pandemic in both your country and ours. We have lost many citizens, yet both of our democracies have powered through very well. Our democracies are complicated and strong. The G20 year gives a wind of hope to the world regarding how the future of the 21st century might be. I was there when PM Modi made a speech at the B20 event, and it was clear what India means for itself and for the world. India is espousing a positive future for humanity, a vision of free people who can live their best lives and can leverage technologies, digital platforms, etc. to ensure that they can live in an environmentally sustainable way. The G20 vision is positive, and you have a lot of appreciation from the people in the United States for how you have done it. All the events that have gone well and all meetings around the country also show how it is Indias breakout moment.

US President Joe Biden signed executive orders banning companies from investing in sectors such as Chinese AI, semiconductors and quantum computing. Can we expect those investments to be routed to India?

India has competition as there are aggressive efforts to get investments back to its shore, to bring manufacturing back and preserve the technological edge. India is a prime destination and a great alternative for strengthening supply chains, but it faces competition from America, Mexico, Vietnam, Indonesia and others. The key for India in this crucial time is to be as business-friendly as possible, to capture as much as you can for the happiness of your people. There has been a lot of pro-business messaging coming from the government and a willingness to listen to the industry. There is a desire to bring in investments. In terms of regulations, if I have to pitch my investment committee to invest $10 billion for a 20-year project, regulatory policy predictability is critical. Predictable rule-making and discussions with industry stakeholder inputs are already in place, and if you can regularise it, this government is pro-business. The whole world, including people in the United States, is betting on Indias rise.

Is space a new focus of PM Modis government? Can we see US companies collaborating with Indian space companies?

For a long time in the US, space was a government function and we did not have private sectors. Since we opened up for private sectors, we have had enormous growth in capabilities and sophistication in space. It is driving down the cost of things such as launching into orbit. It is beneficial for humanity to get it right. The US and now India are opening up space to private sectors. I am optimistic that we could see unlimited growth between the US and India in space. Your capabilities in missions to the moon and Mars are evident. There is an ambitious human space flight programme here that I cant wait to see get underway. We have a space working group, USIBC, where private companies from India and the US come together with two governments to foster this spark in private sector collaborations. You have some new startups in the defence sector that are developing innovative things, for example in aircraft engines, drone technology and armored personnel carriers. We had a lot of announcements during PM Modis visit to the US regarding drones, jet engines and other advanced technologies. It has great potential for peace, security and stability of the entire world for the US and India to develop defence platforms that keep us all safe. We are privileged to have initiatives on critical and emerging technologies and the Indus-X Defense startup. We are going to do more such things. The real potential is in the private sector for the benefit of the whole community.

Good conversations with President @USIBC, Amb. @atulkeshap on various ways in which American and Indian industry can collaborate to further the skills and education agenda. @ShreerupaMitra #B20SummitIndia pic.twitter.com/0fm0jsFVEI Dharmendra Pradhan (@dpradhanbjp) August 26, 2023

Recently, even in the BRICS Summit and otherwise, China and Russia are advocating the roadmap for de-dollarisation. A larger debate is going on for settlement of trade in local currency or a mutually accepted currency to be adopted to counter the hegemony of the dollar. How do you see the position of some nations?

First of all, the dollar still makes up about 65% of the reserve currency basket of any country right now. The dollar is easily the most common method of exchange between countries. There is a certain transparency about the dollar which other countries do not have. If you are holding dollars, you are essentially putting faith in the prosperity of the United States. Our stock market is soaring, our employment is solid, technological innovation is strong, and our immigration economy keeps bringing up billionaires that create technological platforms that change the world. I have full faith in the dollar. Certainly, nations should invest in ways to take care of their people. Ultimately, the dollar has stayed in power and is robust over many decades because the American system of innovation and transparency. That transparency matters. It gives confidence to you and everyone else of what the dollar represents. I have worked on the economies you talked about and transparency is not their homework.
With beefed up security, infrastructure beautifications and an aim for more inclusivity, India is all set to welcome world leaders at the G20 Summit set to be held in New Delhi on September 9 and 10 this year.

Section 144 has been imposed in New Delhi for the next 15 days. This will be the 18th G20 summit, and the first one hosted under Indias presidency.

The summit aims to bring together G20 member countries along with guest nations to participate in discussions about diverse economic reforms.

Amid this, lets answer all your queries related to the upcoming event

What is the G20?

The G20 or Group of 20 is an intergovernmental forum of the worlds major developed and developing economies.

When is the G20 supposed to take place?

The G20 Summit will take place in New Delhi on September 9 and 10 (Saturday and Sunday) in 2023.

Where will the G20 take place?

The summit will take place at the revamped India Trade Promotion Organisation (ITPO) complex, erstwhile Pragati Maidan. It has been built at a cost of Rs 2,700 crores and constructed within an area of 123 acres.

What is the theme of G20?

The theme of Indias G20 Presidency is Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam or One Earth  One Family  One Future. The concept is taken from the ancient Sanskrit text, Maha Upanishad and entails the intrinsic value of all forms of life  humans, animals, plants, and microorganisms.

What parts of Delhi will be closed during G20?

According to police, the entire area of the New Delhi district will be considered as Controlled Zone-I from 5 am on September 8 to 11.59 pm on September 10.

#WATCH| Delhi police prepares for the security ahead of the G20 Summit. The police dog squad with handlers perform drills on dummy explosives planted in luggage and vehicles. pic.twitter.com/b7jZWDX9wF ANI (@ANI) August 29, 2023

Will traffic get affected during G20?

Delhi police issued a traffic advisory and strongly encouraged the public to utilize the Delhi Metro network whenever possible during the proceeding of the summit.

Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGVs), Medium Goods Vehicles (MGVs) and Light Goods Vehicles (LGVs) will not be allowed to enter into Delhi. This will be barring essential commodities and those having valid No Entry Permissions. Read more on full traffic updates here

General traffic will be allowed between the Ring Road and the Delhi borders but vehicles moving beyond the Ring Road towards the New Delhi district will be subject to regulation.

Who all are attending G20?

US President Joe Biden will attend the G20 summit, and this will be his first visit to India after becoming the president.

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak will attend the summit was eagerly looking forward to attend the G20 Summit, news agency PTI said.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau also confirmed his presence at the G20 summit.

Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina will attend the G20 Summit, and will also try to hold a bilateral meeting with PM Modi, PTI said.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is set to attend the G20 summit, and will visit the country as part of his 3-nation tour.

South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol is set to attend the upcoming summt, South Koreas Ambassador to India Chang Jae Bok told news agency ANI.

Who all are not attending G20?

Russian President Vladimir Putin informed PM Modi that he wont be able to attend the summit. Instead of Putin, Moscows Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov will represent Moscow in his place.

Where will the world leaders stay in Delhi?

A total of 35 hotels in New Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR) have been booked by different missions and the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) for guests and dignitaries who will arrive for the G20 summit on September 9 and 10, according to local sources.

The hotels are in New Delhi, South Delhi and Aerocity.

What countries are a part of G20?

The group of G20 countries comprises 19 nations including Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Republic of Korea, Mexico, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Turkiye, United Kingdom, United States and the European Union.
With just over a week to go for the G20 Summit in Delhi, Piyush Goyal, Union Minister for Commerce and Industry, Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, spoke to Network18 Group Consulting Editor Nalin Mehta on Indias digital revolution, its evolution and the implications of the growth of digital public infrastructure such as UPI and direct benefit transfers (DBT) to the poor and Indias emerging Techade.

Edited excerpts:

Q: The word Techade is something which Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been talking about for two years now. It means different things to different people. You have said in the past that we have now reached a new dimension in our digital economy. What does this idea of an Indian Techade mean to you?

In digital payments and digital public goods, we have become the talk of the world. When I think of Indias Techade and why the honourable Prime Minister coined this word, I think of what I call Indias 30-30-30 matrix.

In the next 30 years, India will add $30 trillion to our economy. I personally believe it will happen in the next 24 years. And we will be at a $35 trillion economy by 2047. We are at $3.75 trillion today. Its the largest opportunity today anywhere in the world. At no time in history has any nation seen this kind of an opportunity  where you grow from 3.5 trillion to 35 trillion in less than three decades.

The second element is our population, which at one point of time used to be a bane. The world recognises it to be a boom today. As the Prime Minister enunciated in his August 15 address this year, we largely have an under-30 population. This is our demographic dividend.

The third element is that for the next 30 years, our average age is going to continue to be below 30.

Thats what I call the 30:30:30 matrix.

All of this rests on the foundation of our digital world. The fact that today we produce more STEM graduates than any other country in the world, that we are already the third-largest start-up ecosystem, that a young man coming from Odisha can create a multibillion-dollar company in less than five-six years  is a story that we used to hear can only happen in the US.

Our young population today is driven with fire in their belly. There are zero starvation deaths in India. Weve reached a stage where the fire in the belly is not for food. The fight is for the good things in life. And where does that fire come from? The digital world.

The nooks and corners of the country today are connected digitally. I dare say we have a better 4G network than the United States today. We have about 6,500 railway stations where Wi-Fi is available in the country.

Our rollout on 5G is amongst the fastest in the world. We will have 125 cities connected to 5G in around less than a year. We have already embarked on 6G development, which only three other countries in the world are doing.

This digital revolution, bringing down the cost of data to probably the lowest in the world today, this fast expansion throughout the country where 900 million people have an internet connection which means almost every youngster is on a smartphone  is key.

Digital technologies are connecting the country, driving desire and ambition. Thats whats going to drive India to greater growth levels. Thats why it is Indias Techade.

Q: Digital technologies have also changed the relationship between the state and the poor. The cabinet has recently approved Rs 14,900 crore for Digital India. But what were talking about is much more than that by itself. In terms of the poor, the growth of DBT has changed politics as we know it. Can you talk a little bit about that?

The honourable PM spoke about 10 crore fake beneficiaries recently. The 10 crore non-existent people have been weeded out, thanks to technology.

We dont ever hesitate to recognise that Nandan Nilekani, the illustrious co-founder of Infosys, developed the Aadhaar concept much before we came into government. It was much misunderstood.

With due respect, please dont take it as politicising but sadly, they [the previous government] were not able to understand and appreciate the huge potential of Aadhaar. When Nandan came out with it, they were not able to appreciate the huge potential of the interoperable systems that ultimately became UPI. And now we are using it for Open Networks for Digital Commerce so that e-commerce also can be socialised.

Sadly, they [UPA government] were not able to visualise its full potential and cash in on the benefits. There was also an element of a little bit of political grandstanding because two senior ministers had certain differing views. One wanted a National Population Register, another was promoting Aadhaar and in the process, the country suffered a delay.

In 2014, Prime Minister Narendra Modi came into the government and invited Nandan Nilekani to present to him what Aadhaar was about. Can Aadhaar invade your privacy? Does Aadhaar cause the kind of disruption that we all thought it did in our own way? We were all mistaken. Because it was not explained well enough to us. But it was the Prime Ministers vision that changed things.

After understanding the issue and going into deep detail, he asked RS Sharma, who was involved in that process, and Nandan to talk to some of his colleagues in the Cabinet.

He visualised that for financial inclusion to be successful, the first basic need was to empower people with a bank account.

Originally, the Jan Dhan accounts were meant to deliver the Mudra loans. The idea was that the poorest of the poor should have an eligibility to draw bank loan at affordable prices, but then Aadhaar came along and gave us a second opportunity.

The mobile world was expanding simultaneously. That is where JAM (Jan Dhan-Aadhaar-Mobile) came into being. It has been transformational in its impact in terms of the governments delivery of welfare, with DBT.

It started during the UPAs time. As Nirmala Sitharaman ji pointed out during her address in the no-confidence motion, there were barely a few thousand transactions using this trinity when we came into the government. Look at the transformation from there to where we are today. Nearly 30 lakh crore has been disbursed through the JAM, directly into the bank accounts of the people of India: Rs 2.5 lakh crore have been transferred to the farmers bank accounts under the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojana. Four crore poor families got a free home.

Overall, Rs 30 lakh crore has been dispersed to the poor (since 2014). An earlier Prime Minister had said if I disburse Rs 100 to the poor, only Rs 15 reaches them. If we had to give our Rs 30 lakh crore in that earlier system with 15% reaching the poor or the beneficiaries, as a chartered accountant, I can tell you we would have had to disperse Rs 200 lakh crore of public money and effectively, Rs 170 lakh crore would have otherwise been lost in the system.

Thats the difference which technology has made to India. Thats why DBT has been not only a game changer for India, but I promise you in the next few years, this is going to be a game changer for the entire world.

Today, this backend protocol that Nandan has developed has become the base not only for UPI, but also ONDC. Imagine that in the nine years of working in the field, there has not been one occasion of leakage, not one occasion that it has been a source of misuse.

Q: Weve seen how UPI exploded in ways that nobody imagined. Tell us about ONDC (Open Network for Digital Commerce), where it is going and what are the challenges in that?

I just had a chat with Adil Zainulbhai, who was also actively involved in ONDC. We raised Rs 180 crore in our first round of fund-raising, on one video conference. We sent some briefing notes to 14-15 potential investors. There was one video call where the officials explained what they had conceptualised as ONDC. We now have cash in the bank. ONDC has already touched about 100,000 transactions a day. But I still call it a beta-testing phase. Not a small mean achievement.

People ask me ONDC is meant for the small retailers, so why are you taking on Amazon or Flipkart? Why are Tatas, Birlas, Airtel and Reliance also on ONDC? It is because I believe if I have to socialise ONDC and make it a success, we need big and small all to coexist. That will give a choice to consumers. My largest stakeholder is Indias 140 crore consumers.

Q: There has also been the issue around restrictions on imports of laptops and computers. There is a fear that youre bringing back the licence-permit raj. How would you respond to that critique?

I am absolutely open to any dialogue, any discussions. Im happy to have the industry come and meet with me if required. But generally, all these discussions have been held by my colleague whos heading the Information Technology Ministry. Theyve gone through all the stakeholder consultations. We are very confident, given the capacity and the surplus capacity not yet utilised, there will be no disruption in the availability or the price. Should a situation like that occur, we are a listening government, not a government that is not accessible. Well be ready to engage with industry and look at other options also.

But it is a serious security matter and its not about any of the things that some of the press has been speculating. Please dont speculate. I can only share with you even a Tesla car is not allowed anywhere near when Xi Jinping is present because they are very conscious of the risks to security. Even from a car being present in the vicinity of the Premier of China. India also has to protect itself from countries who are antagonistic to India. We have to protect ourselves, our leaders, our businesses.

Piyush Goyal spoke to Nalin Mehta, at the launch of his book, Indias Techade: Digital Revolution and Change in the Worlds Largest Democracy. Mehta is the Dean of School of Modern Media at UPES University in Dehradun, a Non-Resident Senior Fellow, Institute of South Asian Studies at the National University Singapore, and Group Consulting Editor, Network 18.
The Modi government is ready with an elaborate plan to spur innovation in new medicine and medical device technology to strengthen Indias position as pharmacy to the world.

From discovering new molecules to complex generics, biosimilars to orphan drugs  the fine print of the new policy aims to cover all areas of pharmaceuticals and medical devices where future growth lies.

In July, the Cabinet approved the National Policy on Research & Development and Innovation in the Pharma-MedTech Sector and the Scheme for Promotion of Research and Innovation in Pharma-MedTech (PRIP). The schemes with a total outlay of Rs 5,000 crore for a period of five years till 2028 were approved.

ALSO READ | Opinion | Indias Pharmaceutical Sector: From an Import-Dependent Sector to a Self-Reliant Powerhouse

While one scheme aims to boost innovation by creating an enabling environment, the other scheme PRIP aims to support the industry via financing options. The formal launch of the scheme is likely to take place in September.

In several developed countries, big pharma companies invest more than or around 25% of their revenues on research and development. However, in India, pharma companies invest only around up to 8% The reason is our public health approach due to which they are unable to fix high margins on their products, hence low revenue generation, said Dr Mansukh Mandaviya, Union health minister, in a press briefing on Tuesday.

This shows that these companies need financial support and this policy is the answer to all their concerns and limitations.

According to the estimates of the Ministry of chemicals and Fertilizers, the parent ministry of the Department of Pharmaceuticals, the policy will create a pool of white-collar jobs to enhance Indias differentiation in comparison to other developing economies. It will also boost pharma exports by an additional $12 billion every year.

FINANCIAL PERKS ON CARDS

The six focus areas of the scheme are new chemical entities, including biological and phytopharmaceuticals, complex generics and biosimilars, precision medicines such as gene therapy and stem cells, medical devices using artificial intelligence and machine learning, orphan drugs and anti-microbial resistance.

Divided into three categories, the government will provide support to pharmaceutical companies and startups working in these focus areas.

In the first category, the policy will support nine pharmaceutical companies for impactful research across these six areas along with support from prestigious government institutions. Here, it will finance 35% of the total costs for over five years or up to Rs 125 crore.

In the second category, the focus shifts to bringing high-potential products and technologies to the market. The policy will take up 30 projects, which have reached TRL 5, from the six priority areas.

TRL stands for Technology Readiness Levels which is a method to estimate the phase of the research project. After the phase of proof of concept at phase 4, the product moves to clinical stages starting at phase 5. In Phase 9, the product is proven and ready for commercial deployment.

In the second category, the projects will be given support to reach stage 9 with the assistance of 35% of costs, up to Rs 100 crore for over five years.

In the third category, Indian startups and micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) will be given support to reach TRL 4 or the proof of concept stage. Around 125 research projects with commercial potential will be selected with funding of Rs 1 crore for over 5 years, S Aparna, secretary at the Department of Pharmaceuticals, said in the briefing.

Delighted to meet @USAmbIndia Eric Garcetti.Discussed India's G20 Presidency health priorities. He lauded Indias efforts in the healthcare sector and also appreciated health-related G20 Ministerial events. pic.twitter.com/zU2ZhdaTzj  Dr Mansukh Mandaviya (@mansukhmandviya) August 29, 2023

WHY THIS POLICY?

Despite strong fundamentals, the pharma sector in India faces various challenges, including a high degree of import dependence and a relatively low pace of development of biologics, biosimilars and other emerging products.

The government data shows that in the coming years, a third of the growth of the pharmaceutical industry is likely to come from innovative drugs. Hence, India needs to enter into the manufacturing of these products to protect its image as a pharmacy to the world.

ALSO READ | Saving Indias Global Pharmacy Image & Shaping e-Pharmacies: New Health Secys Challenges Ahead

In a press briefing on Tuesday, S Aparna said that the other important reason behind the making of the policy is the public health goal. There are several expensive medicines which are presently imported. However, through our own R&D and manufacturing mechanisms, we can start making these products in-house for our own consumption as well.

The third benefit is to manufacture our own medicines and devices for rare, neglected or tropical diseases. The cost of procuring medicines for rare diseases is huge as there are not many buyers. Once we start manufacturing, the cost would go down for our own people, Aparna said, adding, Certain diseases are geography-based. For those diseases, big pharma companies dont manufacture medicines for these tropical or neglected diseases. Hence, India can manufacture its own medicines for its own set of medical illnesses.
After China incorporated disputed areas, including its claims over Indias Arunachal Pradesh in its latest map, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Tuesday hit back at the neighbouring country, saying making absurd claims does not make other peoples territories yours.

Jaishankar dubbed Chinas action as an old habit and said it does not change anything.

China has put out maps with territories (that are) not theirs. (It is an) old habit. Just by putting out maps with parts of India this doesnt change anything. Our government is very clear about what our territory. Making absurd claims does not make other peoples territories yours, the EAM told NDTV.

India on Tuesday rejected claims by China over Arunachal Pradesh and Aksai Chin in its latest map and lodged a strong protest through diplomatic channels with the neighbouring country.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), in a statement, said such steps by the Chinese side only complicate the resolution of the boundary question.

We have today lodged a strong protest through diplomatic channels with the Chinese side on the so-called 2023 standard map of China that lays claim to Indias territory. We reject these claims as they have no basis. Such steps by the Chinese side only complicate the resolution of the boundary question, the MEA said.

Arunachal is Ours, Frustrated China Resorting to Propaganda Before G20: Top Sources on New Map

The release of the controversial map comes just days after Prime Minister Narendra Modi met President Xi Jinping at the BRICS Summit in South Africa. Apart from Arunachal Pradesh, the map reflects Chinese claims over the Aksai Chin region, Taiwan and the disputed South China Sea.

India has repeatedly said that the state of Arunachal Pradesh has always been and will always be an integral part of the country.

The 2023 edition of Chinas standard map was officially released on Monday and launched on the website of the standard map service hosted by the Ministry of Natural Resources, state-run Global Times said in a post on X, formerly Twitter. This map is compiled based on the drawing method of the national boundaries of China and various countries in the world, the post said.

The map also displayed by the Global Times showed Arunachal Pradesh, which China claims as South Tibet, and Aksai Chin occupied by it in the 1962 war. India has repeatedly told China that Arunachal Pradesh was, is and will always remain an integral and inalienable part of India. The map also incorporated Chinas claims over the estranged island of Taiwan and the nine-dash line claiming a large part of the South China Sea.

China claims Taiwan as part of its mainland and its integration with the mainland is part of a vowed objective of Chinese President Xi Jinping. Vietnam, the Philippines, Malaysia, Brunei and Taiwan have counterclaims over the South China Sea areas.
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has found links of Malayalam actress Navya Nair with IRS officer Sachin Sawant in a money laundering case. The probe agency has filed a chargesheet in the case against Sawant, who was arrested in June 2023, before a special PMLA court.

As a part of the investigation and to understand the money trail, the statement of Nair has been recorded in this case. Her statement has been attached to the chargesheet. Apart from Nair, statements of another woman friend of Sawant have also been recorded.

The ED investigation has found that Sawant gave some gifts to Nair, including jewellery. Details of the gifts and jewellery are being checked to ascertain the money trail in this case and to know if these gifts were a part of the proceeds of crime.

According to ED officials, Nair and Sawant were dating. Sawant had travelled to Cochin 8-10 times to meet Nair. However, on being questioned by ED, Nair denied any relationship and said they were just friends.

Who is Navya Nair?

Nair was part of a Malayalam crime thriller, which was subsequently made in several other languages, including Hindi, and followed by a sequel. She has acted in movies such as Ishtam, Mazhathullikkilukkam, Nandanam, Kalyanaraman, Kunjikoonan and Pattanathil Sundaran, among others. She has been awarded two Kerala State Film Awards for Best Actress, the Filmfare Award for Best Actress  Malayalam and the Kalaimamani Award for her contribution to Tamil cinema.

What is Money Laundering Case?

The ED is investigating a money laundering case against Sawant based on CBIs FIR against him and his family members for amassing Rs 2.46 crore worth of assets disproportionate to his known sources of income while in government service.

Sawant was deputy director of ED and then joined as OSD of a minister in the MVA government. Subsequently, the CBI had booked him in a disproportionate assets case in June last year. Sawant was transferred to Lucknow as additional commissioner GST.
In a hit-and-run case, a 34-year-old man died after allegedly being run over by a speeding dumper in Mumbais Bhandup area on Monday evening. Police arrested a 25-year-old driver who had initially fled from the site after the accident.

The deceased, identified as Dadu Patel, was returning from work at around 8 pm when the accident occurred. He was walking towards his house in Shyamnagar in Bhandup (east) when the speeding dumper rammed into him from behind, the police said. His family was informed about the accident by a pedestrian who lived in his locality and had witnessed the incident.

The driver, identified as Jaswant Yadav, is a resident of Mulund West and had escaped the spot after parking the vehicle at a distance.

In connection to the hit-and-run case, a police officer told Hindustan Times, Patil fell on the ground and the dumper ran over both his legs following which he was rushed to the Sion Hospital. He sustained severe head injuries and died after three hours during treatment.

The police were informed of the incident following which they visited the spot near Menon College and also went to the place where the dumper was parked. The accused later surrendered to the police.

The driver has been booked under Section 304(A) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) for causing death due to negligence. As per the Hindustan Times, the accused confessed that he was speeding due to which he lost control over his vehicle and eventually ran over the pedestrian.
Days after an incident, where a Muslim child was slapped repeatedly by students at a Muzaffarnagar school in Uttar Pradesh on a teachers advise, Kerala education minister V Sivankutty said their government is ready to adopt and provide education to the child.

Sivankutty penned a letter to Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, urging decisive measures against those accountable for fostering divisive activities within an educational institution.

On Monday, Sivankutty affirmed the state government would offer top-notch education to the child, provided the parents consent.

If his parents are willing, then the education department is ready to adopt the child. The state government and the people of Kerala will strive to protect secular values, the minister was quoted as saying to Times of India.

In his letter to Yogi Adityanath, Sivankutty expressed that such an occurrence not only contradicts the fundamental values of secularism and tolerance upheld by the nation but also establishes a perilous example for susceptible young minds who seek guidance and motivation from their educators.

Boy Cant Sleep At Night, Say Parents

The young boy, who was subjected to a slap by his peers under the instruction of a school teacher in Muzaffarnagar, is said to have been taken to Meerut for a medical assessment yesterday due to his distress and inability to sleep following the incident. His parents have confirmed his return home and reassured his normal state.

After enduring a night of agitation and sleeplessness, the boy was brought to Meerut for a medical evaluation. The doctor confirmed his normal condition. His unease stemmed from various individuals, including reporters, inquiring about the Neha Public School episode, the father said while speaking to PTI.

Regarding a potential resolution with Tripta Tyagi, the implicated teacher, the father affirmed that no compromise would be entertained.

Meanwhile, officials from the education department have indicated that the boy could be enrolled in a government primary school, pending agreement from his family.

Additionally, the department intends to facilitate the transfer of other students from Neha Public School in Khabbupur village, where the incident unfolded last Friday.
Congress leader Ranvijay Singhs son mercilessly thrashed a class 11 student along with his bodyguards for not saluting. Pranam kyun nahi kiya (Why didnt you greet me respectfully), accused Ranveer Singh asked the boy adding abusive words.

Seventeen-year-old Akash Singh was allegedly hit with the butt of a pistol and sticks. He was later abducted in a vehicle and his father, builder Vikram Singh, was called up and threatened.

The father then lodged an FIR at Saraidhela police station against Ranveer, his friend Vishal Singh, Aditya Singh and Ansh Singh.

As the video of the incident went viral, Ranvijay Singh questioned on the authenticity of the clip and demanded and investigation.

The Incident in Detail

According to reports, Akash Singh, alias Krish, is a resident of Hirapur JC Mallick Road in Dhanbad and studies in Class 11 in Delhi Public School. On Friday, he went for his tuition classes in Koyla Nagar.

Akash said that while returning, he went to Koyla Nagar Shopping Complex late evening with his friends. While he was standing with his friends, Ranvijay Singhs son arrived with his bodyguards in four Scorpio cars.

The car number was 0027. Some 20-25 people came out of the cars, held me and asked why didnt you greet (in respect) Ranvijays son. I refused. He (Ranveer) then said he felt like hitting me, and with this, the leaders son started raining blows at me, the 17-year-old student said.

"Parnam kaahe nahi kiya re Madh**d!"Dhanbad, Jharkhand: Ranveer, the son of a Congress leader Ranvijay Singh, brutally beat a student with the butt of a pistol for not touching his feet. An FIR has been registered after immense pressure. pic.twitter.com/VjdrTfg4xc  Treeni (@_treeni) August 29, 2023

Ranveer then shoved me in his car. Hit me inside the vehicle too. While hitting me, he took me to Mandal tea shop in Koyla Nagar. They kept hitting me even then, following which his bodyguards held me by the collar and made me fall on Ranveers feet. The leaders son also took my phone, called up my father and threatened him, Akash Singh narrated.

The student told reporters that Ranveer hit him with the butt of a pistol on his head. The leaders son also used sticks and kada (metal bracelet) to hit me, he added.

According to local reports, Vikram Singhs family is panic after the incident and has demanded protection.
Situation was tensed in Uttar Pradeshs Prayagraj on Tuesday after a class 10 student was allegedly beaten to death following a dispute with classmates belonging to a different community. Heavy police has been deployed in the city, while Khiri areas SHO has been suspended and three accused detained.

The family members of the deceased blocked vehicular movement on Khiri crossing road and demanded action against the accused. They alleged that the student, identified as Satyam, was killed for protesting against the harassment of his cousin.

The incident took place on Monday when the victim was returning from school with his cousin, who studies in class 9 in the same school. The accused allegedly passed comments and harassed his sister. When the class 10 student protested, he was thrashed, resulting in his death.

A senior police officer said that the harassment angle was a rumour and the incident was a result of a dispute among students.

ACP (Kaudhiyara) Rajeev Kumar was quoted by Times of India as saying, The group of students had a heated argument in school and then clashed with each other inside the campus during school time over some issue.

The school authorities, however, resolved the matter and issued them stern warning. After the school was over, these students once again came face-to-face outside the campus. They allegedly thrashed one of their classmates that he became unconscious and fell on road, the TOI report stated.

The deceased was allegedly hit with batons. He was admitted to a hospital by locals, where he was declared dead, a police officer said.

Local residents turned out to protest after the killing in Kheri police station area on Monday. Additional police force was called as the incident began to take on a communal colour. India TV reported that the station house officer of the area was suspended and three people detained.

Deputy Commissioner of Police (Yamuna Nagar) Santosh Kumar Meena was quoted by PTI as saying a case has been registered after the family filed a complaint. Three people have been detained.

The SHO said police teams are trying to nab two people named in the FIR. They have been identified as Yusuf and Mohsin. Local people blocked a road for some time after the incident, but were later cleared away, police said.

A large number of police personnel have been deployed as a precautionary measure to maintain law and order in the area, officials said. The victims body was sent for an autopsy.
S Somnath, Indian Space Research Organisations (ISRO) chairman, brings a remarkable balance between science, spirituality, and synergy. With a unique perspective on how one can find a balance in ones life through inner engineering, Somnath successfully launched Indias coveted space exploration project, Chandrayaan-3.

His team and India now have successfully launched the Aditya-L1 solar mission. Before the lift-off on Saturday, Somnath visited the renowned Tirupati Thirumala Devasthanam to seek the blessings of Lord Balaji.

Somnath, underlines that science and spirituality are two different entities, and that there is no need to mix the two. Having said that, he astutely calls himself an explorer  of the moon and the mind.

Seeking Blessings

I am an explorer. I explore the moon. I explore the inner space. Its part of the journey of my life to explore both science and spirituality. So, I visit many temples and I read many scriptures. I try to find the meaning of our existence and our journey in this cosmos. Its part of the culture that we are all built to explore and find out the inner self as well as the outer self. So, for the outer, I do science, for the inner, I go to temples he had said, after offering prayers at the renowned Bhadrakali Temple in Thiruvananthapurams Pournamikavu after the successful landing of Chandrayaan-3.

A day before Chandrayaan-3 was launched, the ISRO chief sought the blessings of Sri Chengalamma Parameswari temple at Sullurpeta, 22 km west of Indias space launch pad, Sriharikota.

I need the blessings of Chengalamma DeviI came here to pray and seek the blessings for the success of this mission, Somnath had told reporters then.

Temple authorities say seeking the goddesss blessings before the rocket launches has been a tradition for ages. Scientists who are part of the launch programme perform puja at the Chengalamma temple.

Not just the ISRO chairman, a team of scientists, the authorities at the famous Lord Venkateswara temple near Tirumala were seen offering prayer hours before the run-up to the Chandrayaan-3 launch.

Space, Sanskrit and Science

In one of his lectures at Maharshi Panini Sanskrit and Vedic University in Ujjain in May this year, Somnath highlights another S to his repertoire  his deep interest in Sanskrit and its role in Science.

He points out that India was a knowledge society since Vedic times involving maths, medicine, metaphysics and astronomy written in Sanskrit, but all such learning came back to the country several thousand years later as discoveries by Western scientists.

Surya Sidhanta, the very first book I came across in Sanskrit, talks about the domain I am familiar with. This book specifically talks about the solar system, how planets move around the sun, periodicity of this movement, timescales, etc, he said in his lecture.

Chandrayaan-3 Mission

With the Chandrayaan mission progressing well, the ISRO scientists await path-breaking data from the moon, especially like how the lander recorded the surface temperature of around 70 degrees when the scientists believed that it could be somewhere around 20 degrees to 30 degrees centigrade.

The ISRO chief spoke of the different challenges faced by Chandrayaan-3, including thermal and communication blackout problems.

India is the first country to land on the south pole of the moon, and there was a reason behind choosing the location.

Its surface is rich in minerals and data gathered through the rover will provide a wealth of information from the lunar surface. Moons South Pole, being less illuminated by the sun, also has tricky terrain.

The surface of the moon does not have an atmosphere, the shadows are all dark, and this was making it difficult to get clearer photographs, Somnath explained.

On naming Chandrayaan-3s landing point as Shiva Shakti, the ISRO chairman found nothing wrong as PM Modi narrated the meaning of the name in a manner that suits everyone.

Moon to Sun

Riding on the top of the moon, ISRO launched the Aditya-L1 mission, Indias first space-based solar mission, on September 2, Saturday. This is expected to study the Suns layers over a period of five years.

India has the capability to travel to the Moon, Mars, and Venus, but we need to increase our confidence. We need more investment, and the space sector must develop, and by this, the whole nation should develop; that is our mission. Were ready to fulfil the vision that was given to us by PM Modi, Somnath said soon after the success of the moon mission.

The ISRO chairman said Gaganyaan, Indias first human spaceflight programme, can be expected to be launched in 2025. The mission is under progress as the Covid-19 pandemic delayed its progress.

Mechanical to Space Engineering

In his four-decade professional trajectory, Somnath displayed his unbeatable skill in resolving issues and bringing a project back on track  be it the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) in 1994 or Chandrayaan in 2023. In 1994, at the launch of the PSLV, the rocket developed a minor glitch. Somnath, then a young engineer at ISRO, joined his seniors to resolve the problem, which went on to be successfully launched in a matter of minutes.

The son of a Hindi teacher, he was born and raised in the Alappuzha district of Kerala. His interest in space developed when he was pursuing Mechanical Engineering from Kerala University. His interest in space research was further ignited when he specially requested his professor to teach him a course on rocket propulsion, which was actually out of syllabus.

He later pursued a masters degree in aerospace engineering from the Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru, and in 1985 joined ISRO and was inducted as the team lead for the PSLV programme.

Specialising in launch vehicle system engineering, structural design, structural dynamics, integration designs and procedures, mechanism design, and pyrotechnics, he played a crucial role in at least three successful missions of the Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV), 11 successful missions of PSLV, and then the coveted Chandrayaan mission.

Somanath is not just a scientist who takes India to the stars, but he is also passionate about the stars on the cinema screen as he is known to be a film buff.
India on Tuesday rejected claims by China over Arunachal Pradesh and Aksai Chin in its latest map and lodged a strong protest through diplomatic channels with the neighbouring country.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), in a statement, said such steps by the Chinese side only complicate the resolution of the boundary question.

We have today lodged a strong protest through diplomatic channels with the Chinese side on the so-called 2023 standard map of China that lays claim to Indias territory. We reject these claims as they have no basis. Such steps by the Chinese side only complicate the resolution of the boundary question, the MEA said.

Our response to media queries on the so called 2023 standard map of China:https://t.co/OZUwNRNrit pic.twitter.com/sAmy20DEa6 Arindam Bagchi (@MEAIndia) August 29, 2023

After China incorporated disputed areas, including its claims over Indias Arunachal Pradesh in its latest map, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Tuesday hit back at the neighbouring country, saying making absurd claims does not make other peoples territories yours.

Jaishankar dubbed Chinas action as an old habit and said it does not change anything.

China has put out maps with territories (that are) not theirs. (It is an) old habit. Just by putting out maps with parts of India this doesnt change anything. Our government is very clear about what our territory. Making absurd claims does not make other peoples territories yours, the EAM told NDTV.

Arunachal is Ours, Frustrated China Resorting to Propaganda Before G20: Top Sources on New Map | Exclusive

The release of the controversial map comes just days after Prime Minister Narendra Modi met President Xi Jinping at the BRICS Summit in South Africa. Apart from Arunachal Pradesh, the map reflects Chinese claims over the Aksai Chin region, Taiwan and the disputed South China Sea.

India has repeatedly said that the state of Arunachal Pradesh has always been and will always be an integral part of the country.

The 2023 edition of Chinas standard map was officially released on Monday and launched on the website of the standard map service hosted by the Ministry of Natural Resources, state-run Global Times said in a post on X, formerly Twitter. This map is compiled based on the drawing method of the national boundaries of China and various countries in the world, the post said.

The 2023 edition of Chinas standard map was officially released on Monday and launched on the website of the standard map service hosted by the Ministry of Natural Resources, state-run Global Times said in a post on X, formerly Twitter. This map is compiled based on the drawing method of the national boundaries of China and various countries in the world, the post said.

The map also displayed by the Global Times showed Arunachal Pradesh, which China claims as South Tibet, and Aksai Chin occupied by it in the 1962 war. India has repeatedly told China that Arunachal Pradesh was, is and will always remain an integral and inalienable part of India. The map also incorporated Chinas claims over the estranged island of Taiwan and the nine-dash line claiming a large part of the South China Sea.

China claims Taiwan as part of its mainland and its integration with the mainland is part of a vowed objective of Chinese President Xi Jinping. Vietnam, the Philippines, Malaysia, Brunei and Taiwan have counterclaims over the South China Sea areas.
The Nilganj-Barasat area in West Bengals North 24 Parganas district was still shaken on Monday, a day after a blast at an illegal firecracker factory left nine dead and seven injured, with some of the deceaseds body parts found even 50 metres away.

ALSO READ | West Bengal: Toll in Illegal Firecracker Factory Blast Rises to 9, One Arrested

News18 visited the area to check the ground situation. Safikul, a partner in the factory, has been arrested.

As one enters Nilganj, small groups can be seen discussing the incident in every corner. Mochpol, the village within Duttapukur police station limits in Barasat, is comparatively a developed area with concrete houses. The blast site is in the middle of the locality.

The one-and-a-half storey building has turned into debris, while the concrete house just behind the blast site is also partially damaged. A JCB machine is trying to clear the debris, with the police forensic team and fire department officers checking if more bodies are stuck. Shocked at the devastation, locals wait at the side of the road.

LOCALSPEAK

Most of the houses in the vicinity have borne the impact. Taslima, an old resident of Nilganj, tells News18: Keramoth, Samsur Ali and some people from Murshidabad have been running this illegal firecracker factory for the past three years. This is not the first time. Six months ago, a woman suffered major burns in a small blast. We were scared. We told the police too, but they are so powerful that no action was taken. My house is 50 feet away from their house. You can see the impact on my house."

A new two-storey house opposite the site is crumbling from one side.

Tajmira Biwi, owner of the house, broke down while talking to News18: I took a loan. For the past 15 years, I saved up for this house. We had just shifted and everything has now come to an end. We also went to police sometime ago to complain, but learnt that if we complain about them [the owners], they will slap a case against us."

NINTH BODY, ANOTHER FACTORY

Amid the police, media and local crowd, suddenly there was noise from near the blast site. Another body, the ninth one, was found in the nearby pond.

Behind the site were six-seven tents used to store gunpowder (barud), stone chip and chocolate bomb raw material stock. Experts, however, say that stone chips are not used to make firecrackers, giving rise to questions on the activity being carried out and the police vigil at the site.

A local told News18 that 950 metre away, another modernised firecracker factory has been set up in an abandoned brick kiln. News18 found that there was a makeshift room with machines, which were used to make firecrackers. It had a laboratory with beakers, chemical solutions and gloves. The police was raiding the area. Locals, however, said that the police were always in the know of the spot, and the raid was a result of the blast.

UNANSWERED QUESTIONS

After the May 16 Egra blast at an illegal firecracker factory killed 12, the police still seemed to be inactive, even as the administration is pushing for a green cluster. Although two police personnel  OC Nilgunj outpost and IC Duttapukur  have been suspended, the axe may fall on other officers too.

Another concern is the Murshidabad connection. Police are now looking at why labourers from Suti area of one village in Murshidabad were brought in.

Meanwhile, the ADG (law and order) on Monday held a meeting with all SPs and Commissioners regarding the incident. He ordered regular raids on all illegal firecracker factories, even if it means duty for more than 24 hours". Instructions have been given for action to be taken against police officers who allow such activities in exchange for bribes.

Another day another explosion in WB.This time it's in Duttapukur; North 24 Parganas.The dead bodies are still being counted, most probably would surpass 10.After the explosion in a bomb-making unit operated by TMC's Bhanu Bag at Khadikul village; Egra; Purba Medinipur, on May pic.twitter.com/afP21PuBmx  Suvendu Adhikari    (@SuvenduWB) August 27, 2023

THE LEGAL ANGLE

The Calcutta High Court will hear the petition filed by Bharatiya Janata Partys (BJP) Suvendhu Adhikary, who claimed there was RDX at the spot. National Investigation Agency (NIA) officers visited the site on Monday.

West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee said, I have received complaints over police inaction on allegations of corruption. To address this, an anti-corruption cell is in place and we are monitoring such activities. The law must be followed in every case. We have set up green cracker factories and formulated several policies for sand, stone theft, brick factories, ferry and selling of green crackers."
A 20-year-old Zimbabwean woman, who has enrolled herself in a college in India, was arrested after a bullet was found in her bag at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport here, an official said on Tuesday.

The official from Sahar police station said the woman, identified as Progress Marumbwa, claimed that the bullet was planted in her bag.

The woman was to proceed to Ludhiana to pursue her first-year BSc (Medical Lab Science) in a college.

The woman arrived in Mumbai on Sunday morning and was supposed to fly to Delhi, the official said.

However, the security staff found a bullet in her bag. She was brought to the police station and arrested under the Arms Act. Further investigation is underway, the official added.
RAKSHA BANDHAN 2023: The Rakhi celebration is one of the most auspicious festivals in India. It not only enhances sibling bonds but also brings the entire family together. However, it is not limited to a single state, city, or country. People of many religions, castes, and classes join together to tie the thread of protection around the wrist of their beloved, whether it be a sister, brother, friend or anybody else to whom they feel connected. Heres how this occasion is marked across the world.

ALSO READ: Happy Raksha Bandhan 2023: Best Rakhi Wishes, Quotes, Messages and Images to Share With Your Brother or Sister

Raksha Bandhan Celebration in Nepal

In Nepal, the celebration has a lot of cultural significance. The occasion is known as Janai Purnima or Rishitarpani. The spirit of the celebration, however, remains the same: to strengthen the bond between brothers and sisters. While most traditions are similar to those conducted in India, such as placing tilak on the forehead and conducting aarti, some distinguish Nepals Raksha Bandhan. For instance, men alter the strands that wrap around their chests during a sacred thread ceremony. In Nepal, both Hindus and Buddhists celebrate this day.

ALSO READ: Happy Raksha Bandhan 2023: Rakhi Wishes, Quotes, Messages and Images to Share With Your Brother!

Bangladesh

Rakhi, also known as Rakhi Purnima or Jhulan Purnima, is mostly observed by Hindus in Bangladesh. Just like in India, sisters wrap various rakhis around their brothers wrists and pray for their well-being. The Hindu community in Bangladesh celebrates the event with gatherings, communal feasting, and the exchange of gifts. Like in India, it is observed on the full moon day of the Hindu month Shravana.

ALSO READ: Raksha Bandhan 2023: History, Rituals, and Shubh Muhurat to Tie it

USA

Raksha Bandhan is an opportunity for Indian communities in the United States, particularly those who have migrated from their native land, to come together, celebrate the bond of brothers and sisters, and reaffirm their love and support for one another, even if one or more of their siblings are in another country.

PHOTOS: Raksha Bandhan 2023: 10 Celeb-Inspired Rakhi Outfit Ideas to Sway Your Brothers Heart!

UK

Raksha Bandhan is an occasion for the British Indian population in the United Kingdom to reconnect with their roots, culture, and tradition. It is widely celebrated in the British Isles. The Indian diaspora makes sure to celebrate these festivals together to keep unity alive.

Mauritius

Raksha Bandhan in Mauritius is not only a celebration of sibling bong but also the notion of unity in diversity. Raksha Bandhan is very important in the hearts of many communities. The event is observed by many religious groups. People from many origins join together in harmony and joy to celebrate this holiday.
HAPPY ONAM 2023: Onam 2023 is being celebrated today with festive fervour across Kerala. A major harvest festival of Kerala, it is a time to celebrate the bountiful harvest and to welcome the return of King Mahabali. It is also a time to reflect on the values of peace, prosperity, and goodwill. May the spirit of the festival fufil your hearts with peace, prosperity, and goodwill!

ALSO READ: 50+ Happy Onam 2023 Wishes, Messages, and Quotes in English and Malayalam to Spread the Joy of Thiruvonam!

Wish your loved ones a Happy Onam 2023 with these beautiful images and wishes! Learn how to say Happy Onam in Malayalam in English with this handy guide.

HAPPY THIRUVONAM 2023 GREETINGS THAT YOU CAN USE

May this festival bring you and your loved ones happiness, health, and prosperity. It is a time to celebrate the harvest and the good things in life. May you have a wonderful time celebrating with your family and friends. May the spirit of the festival fill your heart with joy, peace, and prosperity. May you always be surrounded by love and happiness. This is a time to come together with family and friends and enjoy the festivities. May this years be the best one yet! May the colours of the festival brighten your life and bring you good luck. May you achieve all your goals and dreams in the year ahead. May this festival bring you happiness, health, and wealth.

HAPPY THIRUVONAM 2023 WISHES

As the golden hues of Thiruvonam 2023 dawn upon us, may they bring joy, prosperity, and togetherness to your life. Happy Thiruvonam! On this special day of Thiruvonam 2023, may the fragrance of the pookkalam and the sumptuousness of the sadya fill your heart and home with happiness. May the blessings of King Mahabali shower upon you on Thiruvonam 2023, bringing abundance and success to all your endeavors. Wishing you a Thiruvonam filled with laughter, love, and cherished moments with your loved ones. May this festival mark the beginning of new joys and aspirations. As we celebrate Thiruvonam 2023, let us remember the essence of sharing and caring that this festival embodies. May your days be as colorful and joyful as the pookkalam itself. Happy Thiruvonam!

HAPPY THIRUVONAM 2023 QUOTES

Onam is not just a festival, its a reflection of unity, culture, and tradition. May this festival bring you closer to your roots. As the vibrant colors of the festival adorn the landscape, may your life also be painted with the hues of joy and success. Wishing you a joyful festival! Onam is a reminder that goodness and kindness always prevail. May your life be filled with the same spirit of generosity. On the canvas of life, lets celebrate each colour of joy, each stroke of success, and each moment of togetherness. May the traditional rituals and festivities of the festival brighten your days and bring prosperity to your doorstep.

HAPPY THIRUVONAM 2023 MESSAGES

To my dear friend,I hope you have a wonderful time celebrating this joyous occasion with your loved ones. May the coming year be filled with happiness, health, and prosperity for you and your family. To my loving family,I am so grateful to have you all in my life. May this festival bring us closer together and strengthen our bonds of love. To my special someone,You are the light of my life. I love you more than words can say. May this festival bring us many more happy years together.

HOW TO SAY HAPPY ONAM IN MALAYALAM

Onam santhikatte ( )This is the most common way to say Happy Onam in Malayalam. It literally means May Onam be peaceful. Onam nal santhikatte (  )This means May the day of Onam be peaceful. Onam aashamsakal ( )This means Happy Onam. Onam shubhavasam ( )This means Good wishes on Onam. Onam mubarak ( )This is a Muslim way of saying Happy Onam. It literally means May Onam be blessed.

ONAM 2023: THIRUVONAM FAQs

When is Onam celebrated?

Onam is celebrated in the Malayalam month of Chingam, which falls in August or September. The exact date varies from year to year. As per Drik Panchang, the Thiruvonam Nakshatram is scheduled to commence at 2:43 am on August 29 and conclude at 11:50 pm.

What are the main activities during Onam?

Decorating homes with flowers and rangolis.

Cooking traditional dishes.

Spending time with family and friends.

Attending cultural events, such as boat races, dance performances, and music concerts.

Making donations to charity.

What are some of the cultural events held during Onam?
INTERNATIONAL DAY AGAINST NUCLEAR TESTS: Director Christopher Nolans biographical film Oppenheimer is all the rage at the moment. J. Robert Oppenheimer was the American theoretical physicist who developed the atom bomb and tested it in 1945 during World War II. Over 2000nucleartestshave taken place since then and they have poisoned the air, land and water, harming people and other life in the process. International Day against Nuclear Tests is observed on August 29 every year to demand an end to such tests.

International Day against Nuclear Tests 2023: History

The first nuclear test, dubbed Trinity was conducted on July 16, 1945, in the deserts of New Mexico under the Manhattan Project of the United States government led by Oppenheimer. The bomb, dubbed the gadget, was created against Germany during World War II but eventually used against Japan.

The success of the Trinity test led to the US air-dropping Little Boy and Fat Man atom bombs on Japanese cities Hiroshima and Nagasaki on August 6 and 9, 1945, respectively. Around 110,000 lives were lost as a result. The survivors and their progeny suffered from cancer and birth defects.

ALSO READ: Japan Summons Chinese Envoy over Fukushima Crank Calls to Local Businesses

The U.S. further detonated 24nuclearbombs at Bikini Atoll in the Marshall Islands from 1946 to 1958. Former Soviet Union, the United Kingdom, France and China also conducted such tests. Then the nuclear arms race began between the United States and the Soviet Union, from 1947 and continued till 1991. Treaties such as the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT), Comprehensive Nuclear test Ban Treaty (CTBT) and the Semipalatinsk Treaty were signed.

Millions of Kazakh people suffered radioactive fallout due to Soviet nuclear tests in Kazakhstans Semipalatinsk site. Kazakhstan initiated a resolution in the United Nations which established August 29 as International Day against Nuclear Tests, on December 2, 2009.

International Day against Nuclear Tests 2023: Significance

Oppenheimer felt that by developing the atom bomb he had given people the power to destroy the world. Throughout his later life, he tried to stop the arms race and urged for nuclear arms control. As noted by the UN Secretary General, currently there are nearly 13,000 nuclear weapons stockpiled globally. The International Day against Nuclear Tests continues Oppenheimers fight against such stockpiling.
HAPPY RAKSHA BANDHAN 2023 WISHES, SMS, QUOTES, GREETINGS, IMAGES, STATUS UPDATES, AND MORE: Irrespective of how much your sibling might push your buttons or test your patience, theres an undeniable truth: your love for them runs deep. Amid the playful pranks and teasing, theres an unspoken understanding that youve got each others backs in times of need. This unique and unbreakable connection deserves recognition, and what better occasion for that than Raksha Bandhan?

ALSO READ: Happy Raksha Bandhan 2023: Best Rakhi Wishes, Quotes, Messages and Images to Share With Your Brother or Sister

Raksha Bandhan celebrated across the nation with enthusiasm and grandeur, is a day to honour this sibling bond. This auspicious occasion is observed with utmost pomp and fervour across the country. It includes lots of sweets, a puja thali, the sacred thread of Rakhi and siblings buying each other gifts. So, if this Raksha Bandhan, you are far away from your brother, here are a few wishes you can share.

Raksha Bandhan Wishes For Brother

1. May you always be safe and protected from harm. I love you, my dear brother. Happy Raksha Bandhan! I pray that our bond of love continues to grow stronger.

2. May your life be filled with happiness, and good health. May you be successful in all your endeavours. Happy Raksha Bandhan my brothers!

ALSO READ: Raksha Bandhan 2023: Is Rakhi on August 30 or 31? Date, History, Rituals, and Shubh Muhurat to Tie it

3. May we always be by each others side in good times and bad. Wishing you a very happy Raksha Bandhan Bhaiya!

4. Wishing you a lifetime of happiness and success on Raksha Bandhan. Happy Raksha Bandhan!

5 May the thread of Rakhi that symbolizes my love for you keep you safe from all harm. Happy Raksha Bandhan!

6. I pray that all your dreams and aspirations come true. You are always in my thoughts and prayers. I love you! I wish that this Raksha Bandhan brings you everything you desire in life.

7. You are the most special person in my life and I pray that all your dreams come true. May you always be happy and healthy! Happy Raksha Bandhan!

Raksha Bandhan Quotes For Brother

1. Brothers and sisters are as close as hands and feet. Vietnamese Proverb

2. Sometimes being a brother is even better than being a superhero.  Marc Brown

3. A sibling may be the keeper of ones identity, the only person with the keys to ones unfettered, more fundamental self. Marian Sandmaier

4. Children of the same family, the same blood, with the same first associations and habits, have some means of enjoyment in their power, which no subsequent connections can supply. Jane Austen

5. A friend is a brother who was once a bother.  Unknown

Raksha Bandhan Messages For Brother

1. No matter how much we fight, on this Raksha Bandhan Day, I want you to know that you are my world and being your sister is the best feeling.

2. Dear brother, before you were born, I never loved sharing. But ever since then, I have never felt more happy to share my things with you. Happy Raksha Bandhan bro!

3. As long as I have you in my life, I dont think I will ever need a friend. Happy Rakhi little brother.

4. You are the luckiest boy in the whole wide world because you have the most amazing sister like me! Happy Raksha Bandhan to you.
TELUGU LANGUAGE DAY 2023: The state of Andhra Pradesh celebrates the Telugu Language Day every year on August 29, which is also the birth anniversary of Telugu poet Gidugu Venkata Ramamurthy. On this day, the government of Andhra Pradesh extends funds and honours for the betterment of Telugu language. The day is coordinated by the Department of Culture on behalf of the government. The Telugu language is the largest member of the Dravidian language family. At the beginning of the 21st century, more than 75 million people spoke Telugu.

Any societys popular culture is characterised by the shared ideals and themes it strives to establish. One medium through which the culture can be viewed is cinema. Along with portraying a societys reality, cinema also aids in assessing social norms, values, rituals, and beliefs.

Telugu cinema, which has had a major impact on popular culture not just in the area but also globally, is one of the most significant features of Telugu culture.

Telugu cinema, often referred to as Tollywood, has a history that spans over a century. It has evolved from its early days of silent films to becoming one of the largest film industries in India. Telugu cinema or Tollywood is one of the three largest film industries in terms of the number of films produced every year. It has impactful performances containing dynamic storytelling and vibrant visuals.

Telugu movies have played an important role in understanding and depicting the life, society and culture of Telugus as an authentic art form of the society. The depiction is not restricted to the life in native states of Andhra and Telangana but to the society at larger level.

Telugu cinema has carved a niche for itself in the global film culture for its profound impact on shaping and influencing popular culture in various ways. For many people, the introduction of iconic fashion trends and styles by Telugu cinema have become part of everyday life. From copying their clothing to hairstyles, actors and actresses often set trends that are emulated by the masses.

Also certain dialogues and phrases used in Telugu films have found their way into everyday language. These linguistic elements have become part of the cultural dictionary, fostering a sense of connection among people. Telugu films are known for their catchy music and elaborate dance sequences. Songs from these films often become chart-toppers and are played at events, weddings, and celebrations.

Telugu film actors often enjoy a cult-like following. Fans not only admire their favourite actors but also try to emulate their personalities and lifestyles. With films dubbed and released in different languages, Telugu cinema has gained international recognition. This global reach has introduced Telugu culture and values to audiences around the world.
Its been 30 years since Aamir Khan and Rajkumar Santoshi worked together in Andaz Apna Apna, which attained cult status with the passing time and is remembered as one of the most iconic comic capers in Indian cinema. Buzz is that, the duo is reuniting for the second time to deliver another massive entertainer.

A source close to Pinkvilla informed that Aamir and Rajkumar are reuniting for an out-and-out entertainer, 30 years since their first film. Aamir Khan and Rajkumar Santoshi have been discussing a subject for a while now and things have finally fallen into place. Aamir has loved whats developed by Santoshi and has been sitting with him to work on all the aspects over the last few months. The source also added that the film is currently in its pre-production stage and will go on floors in January 2024.

The source also revealed that they have locked December 2024 for the films release. Aamir and Rajkumar Santoshi are all set to bring their entertainer during the Christmas 2024 weekend. The prep work is going on in full swing and the film is all ready to roll out in January, the source informed, and further added that this would be the 16th film from Aamirs production house.

On a closing note, the report also stated that, Aamir and Rajkumar Santoshi have inked a two-film deal. While Aamir has committed himself to act in the first of the two films, the second one will go on floors later in 2025. Aamir was taken aback by both the subjects and has happily associated himself with the director known for cults like Ghayal, Ghatak, Damini, Khakhee, Bhagat Singh among others.

Aamir Khan has been on an acting break after the release of Laal Singh Chaddha. The actor has been enjoying his time with family and kids.

The 2022 film Laal Singh Chadha, generated controversy and proved to be a commercial disappointment. This movie, based on the Hollywood film Forrest Gump, featured Kareena Kapoor Khan in a prominent role alongside Khan. The cast also comprised notable actors such as Shah Rukh Khan, Naga Chaitanya, Mona Singh, Manav Vij, Sanjay Dutt, and Vijay Sethupathi in significant parts.
Disney+ Hotstars upcoming show The Freelancer sees actors Anupam Kher and Mohit Raina coming together for the first time. Backed by filmmaker Neeraj Pandey, the series is based on a book titled A Ticket To Syria and revolves around a man on an extraction mission and a young girl trying to escape death in a war-torn hostile environment of Syria. Kher plays a mentor to Rainas portrayal of a mercenary.

In an exclusive chat with News18, Kher says that hes elated to be sharing screen space with the Uri: The Surgical Strike and Shiddat actor and spills the beans on his mother, Dulari Khers fondness about Raina that began with the hit television show, Devon Ke Dev  Mahadev, where he played Lord Shiva. Mohit is my mothers favourite actor. She loved him as Shiv ji. She would almost place a garland on the television screen, take off her shoes and watch him with a lot of shraddha. And then one day, I decided to watch the show, he tells us.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Anupam Kher (@anupampkher)

Hailing Rainas portrayal of Lord Shiva, Kher says, Playing Shiv ji isnt easy. Its not just about putting blue makeup on. You also need to have that kind of calmness. His sincerity is very endearing. He goes on to add that Raina played the part with a lot of earnestness and that reflected in his performance. Sometimes you play characters and you dont want to be constantly reminded of that because you think theres much more to you. But to be able to portray a character thats larger-than-life and still have people believe you requires your mental state to be in tandem with your acting, Kher points out.

The Uunchai and The Kashmir Files actor reveals that it was he who had reached out to Raina for a role in The Freelancer and that his experience with him has been nothing short of enriching. Speaking about it, he says, For The Freelancer, I called him and approached him. Hes very focused and aloof when hes working. Theres so much to learn from him. Im fascinated by how he performed certain scenes in this show. I always learn a lot from young actors and newcomers. Their approach is very different and that keeps you alive as an actor.

But theres one grudge that Kher holds against Raina. With his signature witty sense of humour, the 68-year-old complains, Mohit didnt tell me that he has been blessed with a baby girl for five months. I came to know about it very recently. I didnt even know that he was married. This is nonsense (laughs)! Hes very private. He should open a private detective agency and nobody will come to know of it!

Coming back to The Freelancer, Kher states that his preparation didnt involve reading the book on which the show is based. He explains that the only time he makes an exception and reads a book is when he works on a biographical project. I didnt read the book and I wasnt even suggested. Neeraj gave me the brief for it and the script described it all. But Im someone who doesnt read a book when a film I do is based on it unless Im doing a biopic of someone. In that case, it becomes important to know about them in detail. For other films, the script needs to be well-designed, he opines.

The Freelancer is all set to start streaming on September 1.
The excitement about Shah Rukh Khans Jawan is getting bigger with each passing day. With almost 10 days left for the film to release, the makers are hosting a special music launch event in Chennai tomorrow. Shah Rukh Khan recently announced the same on X handle.

Greeting his fans, Shah Rukh wrote, Vanakkam Chennai, I am coming!!! All the Jawans  girls & boys at Sai Ram Engineering College be ready I am excited to meet you all! Might even do some tha tha thaiya if asked. See you tomorrow 3PM onwards, on X.

Vanakkam Chennai, I am coming!!! All the Jawans  girls & boys at Sai Ram Engineering College be ready I am excited to meet you all! Might even do some tha tha thaiya if asked. See you tomorrow 3PM onwards. pic.twitter.com/1VjoX2xhNE Shah Rukh Khan (@iamsrk) August 29, 2023

The films director Atlee also expressed his excitement for the same. Taking to X, he wrote, Cant wait for this See you all tommmmmmm #jawan pre release event tomm 3 pm at Sai ram engineering college Chennai.

Cant wait for this See you all tommmmmmm#jawan pre release event tomm 3 pm at Sai ram engineering college chennai pic.twitter.com/V2zxtxaOYn atlee (@Atlee_dir) August 29, 2023

Apart from the announcement, a couple of pictures from the venue has gone viral. The photos give a glimpse of the college and the huge set up that has been built for King Khan to arrive. The photos of the passes have also gone viral. These pictures have surely increased the excitement for the event.

Have a look at them below :

#JawanPreRelease event in Sairam Engineering College at 3PM tomorrow  pic.twitter.com/aJSu9bcQln Jagadish (@Jagadishbliss) August 29, 2023

Earlier in the day, the makers dropped the third song from the film. Titled Not Ramaiya Vastavaiya song, the music has left everyone even more excited for the Atlee directorial. In the songs video, Shah Rukh Khan and Nayanthara can be seen setting the stage on fire with their energetic dance moves. SRK can also be seen romancing Nayanthara. The actress looks beautiful in a yellow, off-shoulder gown, while Shah Rukh looks handsome as ever in a printed shirt, black trousers and sunglasses.

Not Ramaiya Vastavaiya is composed by Anirudh Ravichander whereas it is sung by Anirudh Ravichander, Vishal Dadlani and Shilpa Rao. Sharing the song on his social media handle, King Khan wrote, This is not chaiya chaiya. This is #NotRamaiyaVastavaiya. This is a Jawans tha tha thaiya. With the songs release, the actor also confirmed that the Jawan trailer will be released on August 31.

Jawan is written and directed by Atlee. Besides Shah Rukh Khan, it also stars Nayanthara, Vijay Sethupathi, Sanya Malhotra and Riddhi Dogra in key roles. Deepika Padukone will also be making a special appearance in the movie. It is being said that Shah Rukh has a double role in the film. It is claimed that King Khan will play the role of a fighter (father) and a jailer (son) in the movie. It was also said that SRK will also be sporting six different looks. Reportedly, the father version of Shah Rukh will be identified as Vikram while the son version is named Azaad.

Jawan will hit theatres on September 7 this year.
Sidharth Malhotra often shares fun moments and snippets on his Instagram handle for which he enjoys a massive fan following. He recently left his fans swooning with his latest Instagram post. The actor took a trip down memory lane and shared a happy photo of himself taking a stroll in a beautiful lane in Italy surrounded by blue flowers. Sharing the photo, he wrote, Phool vool vadda cool .

In his picture, Sidharth is seen wearing a white Cuban collared shirt with cool track pants and chic glares. The slight beard and candid pose just strike the elegance and charm for which Sidharth is known for. While Sidharth looked like an absolute thirst trap in the photo, fans got nostalgic about his character Abhimanyu from his first film Student Of The Year. One of them wrote, Innna sona innna coool . Another fan commented, Ladka beautiful kar gaya chool . Thank you for blessing our day , wrote another one.

Have a look at the photo:

Be it red carpet glamorous events, or casual appearances, its an undeniable fact that Sidharth always makes heads turn with his presence and aura. When asked what has been his approach towards stardom, the actor earlier shared with News18, 10 years in the industry, I still get [jitters], but have gotten comfortable [with the limelight]. I dont let fame mess with my head. I am blessed to be in a profession where Ive gotten so much love, acceptance, and motivation to do better. As a Delhi boy, who has always aspired to be an actor, I only have love and gratitude for the growth that has come my way. I want to keep working hard. It takes a lot of blood, sweat, and tears to earn this.

Sidharth Malhotra recently made headlines, when his film Shershaah went on to win the National Award. The film, which is based on the life of late Captain Vikram Batra, has been honoured with the Special Jury Award in the Features Film category. The movie also starred Kiara Advani as the leading lady.

On the work front, Sidharth Malhotra will be next seen in Yodha with Disha Patani and Raashii Khanna. He will also be making his OTT debut with Rohit Shettys Indian Police Force which would be streaming on Prime Video. Sidharth was last seen in Mission Majnu alongside Rashmika Mandanna.
On August 12, the President of India, Droupadi Murmu gave assent to Jan Vishwas Bill 2023 to become a law, which was passed in the Parliament on August 2. The purpose of the Jan Vishwas Bill is to promote the ease of doing business by decriminalising several offences into penalties and eliminating imprisonment for many offences but the number of provisions this bill addresses is statistically insignificant. And yet, this is one of the most awaited reforms and a possible game-changer for Indias entrepreneurs.

Since the British era in India, 69,233 compliances regulate doing business under 26,134 imprisonment clauses across the Centre and state governments to put an entrepreneur in jail as a penalty for non-compliance. It plagues Indias business compliance regulation framework and has been haunting entrepreneurs since pre-independence. The compliances criminalisation hasnt created honesty but has painful consequences like breeding corruption, sabotaging job creation, and diluting justice. In 76 years of independence, can an entrepreneur hope that the Jan Vishwas Bill could envisage redefining the regulatory landscape of the country under the Ease of Doing Business Reforms?

A significant level of decriminalisation missing

The Jan Vishwas Bill decriminalises only 113 clauses out of 26,134 total (less than half per cent) imprisonment clauses dealing with the regulation of economic activities and business at an aggregate. According to the Observer Research Foundations report, There are 534 imprisonment clauses in Union labour laws, which will change once the Labour Codes are notified, leaving 4,705 imprisonment clauses awaiting rationalization.

The compliances related to 42 central acts administered by 19 ministries/departments in ten major categories  labour and employment, power, chemical and fertilisers, secretarial, environmental health, and safety, finance, and taxation, industry-specific, commercial and general and regulators such as RBI, SEBI and CBIC resulted in 105 recommendations, of which only six have been accepted; and the balance 98 being specific provisions.

Of the hundreds of business laws with imprisonment clauses that could be compoundable, excluded in the Jan Vishwas Bill 2023, few of these are mentioned here.

Industrial Disputes Act, 1947: Under Section 29, any person who commits a breach of any term of any settlement or award, which is binding on him under this Act, shall be punishable with imprisonment for a term which may extend to six months or with a fine of Rs 1000 or with both.

Labour Laws: Section 54-b of The Code on Wages specifies penalties for offences committed by an employer, such as paying less than the due wages or contravening any provision of the Code. A maximum penalty is imprisonment for three months along with a fine of up to Rs one lakh or both.

Maternity Benefit Act, 1961: Under Section 6, the violation shall be punishable with imprisonment of three months but may extend to one year and with a fine.

Employee State Insurance Corporation Act, 1948: Section 85 is prescribed for different types of offences in terms of imprisonment of up to one year and a fine of up to Rs 5000. Section 85-A prescribed 3 years imprisonment and not less than 6 months, where an employer deducts contributions from the wages of his employees but does not pay the same to the corporation which amounts to a criminal breach of trust.

Goods and Services Tax Act, 2017: Under Section 132, where the amount of input tax credit wrongly availed or utilised or the amount of refund wrongly taken exceeds imprisonment for a term which may extend to three years.

Companies Act, 2013: Section 447 prescribes punishment for a false entry in any document concerning the company or body corporate, furnishing false statements, mutilation, and destruction of documents, and Section 449 for false evidence. The jail terms range from three months to as high as 10 years.

The Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981: Under Section 39D, offences for failure to comply and for failure to pay a penalty are to be punishable with imprisonment for a term of two years but which may extend to seven years and with a fine.

The Environment (Protection) Act, 1986: Under Section 15F, where any person fails to pay the penalty or additional penalty within ninety days of such imposition, he shall be liable for imprisonment that may extend to three years or with a fine which may extend to twice the amount of the penalty or with both.

The Trade Marks Act, 1999: Under Section 112 A, where the person fails to comply with the order made within a period of ninety days from the date of the receipt of the order, shall be punishable with a fine of Rs one lakh or imprisonment for a term may extend to one year or with both.

Hence, there is a pressing need to decriminalise numerous penal offences, such as sedition (Section 124A of the IPC), offences under the UAPA and the NDPS Act, anti-conversion laws, and more. It is crucial to assess these and similar offences based on principles and evaluate the need for decriminalisation. As a result, the law cannot achieve a significant level of decriminalisation. It is important because decriminalising frivolous compliances is an important policy action of reducing, if not ending.

The Way Forward

Since 76 years of independence, we have heard the expression Inspector Raj. Our job creators and job seekers deserve better. Imagine a $10 trillion GDP aspiration, our lawmakers need to up the entrepreneurs aspirations. Hopefully, the Jan Vishwas Bill will speed up to accomplish and simplify business operations throughout the nation to ensure that businesses can operate without fear of imprisonment for minor, technical or procedural lapses by bringing all business reforms under this single overarching legislation, infusing dignity to a entrepreneur.

The author is Vice-Chairman Sonalika Group, Vice-Chairman (Cabinet minister rank) of the Punjab Economic Policy and Planning Board. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely that of the author. They do not necessarily reflect News18s views.
Congress leader Jairam Ramesh on Tuesday recalled that then prime minister Indira Gandhi had invited N T Rama Rao to be present at Sriharikota after the successful launch of the SLV-3-D2 in 1983, despite them being bitter political rivals.

The remarks come in the backdrop of the row after the Congress alleged that Prime Minister Narendra Modi purportedly barred Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister Shivakumar from receiving him at the HAL Airport during his visit over the weekend.

PM Modi had said on Saturday he had requested the Karnataka Governor, chief minister and deputy chief minister not to come to the airport to receive him as he did not want them to take the trouble of coming early in the morning as he was not sure of his arrival time after a long flight. The prime minister flew down to Bengaluru around 6 AM Saturday directly from the Greek capital of Athens to interact with ISRO scientists involved in the Chandrayaan-3 mission to the Moon.

In a post on X without referring to the incident, Ramesh said,They were bitter political rivals, but Indira Gandhi invited N.T. Rama Rao to be present at Sriharikota after the successful launch of the SLV-3-D2 on April 17 1983. This is from Ved Prakash Sandlas 2018 classic, The Leapfroggers. The SLV-3 carried on board the Rohini Satellite RS-D2. A war of words had also erupted between BJP MLA and former minister R Ashoka and Shivakumar over ignoring of protocol to receive the prime minister at the airport.
With the Cauvery Water Regulation Committee (CWRC) directing Karnataka to release Cauvery water ensuring 5,000 cusecs realisation at Biligundlu in Tamil Nadu for the next fortnight, Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar on Friday said he would speak to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and other legal experts about the prevailing situation.

Shivakumar, who holds the major and medium irrigation projects portfolio, said the CWRC has ordered release of 5,000 cusecs of water every day though Tamil Nadu had demanded releasing 24,000 cusecs every day.

Our people have fought it vigorously. We have explained our situation (to the CWRC). The technical committee too presented the case. Our officers too have explained the exact situation. We are going to speak to our legal experts. I will speak to the Chief Minister. I have spoken to our officers about the prevailing situation, Shivakumar told reporters in Mysuru.

The DCM said Karnataka was earlier asked to release 10,000 cusecs of water everyday which was reduced to 5,000 cusecs in view of less rainfall. When asked whether water is being released, Shivakumar said Karnataka has been asked to release from today itself but the government has to see the pros and cons as well. We are dependent on our legal team. We will discuss with them and take a decision. I have not spoken about releasing water because we got it (the order) today, he explained. Shivakumar also said that the Cauvery case is coming up in the Supreme Court on Friday. In this regard, he said he will speak to legal experts to protect the interests of the state.

Sharing details of the current status of dams of Cauvery basin, he said the Gross Storage Capacity (GSC) of Krishnaraja Sagar Dam is 24 TMC but today there is 15 TMC Live Storage. The GSC of Kabini Reservoir is 13 TMC while it has three TMC live storage. In Harangi, GSC is 7.8 TMC while live storage is 7 TMC. In Hemavathi reservoir, the GSC is 25 TMC and 21 live storage.
A sessions court here on Tuesday refused anticipatory bail to former Mumbai mayor Kishori Pednekar in a case pertaining to alleged corruption in the purchase of body bags meant for COVID-19 victims.

Fearing arrest in the case, the Shiv Sena (UBT) leader earlier this month moved an anticipatory bail application before the court.

Additional sessions judge S B Joshi on Tuesday refused anticipatory bail to Pednekar and two other accused in the case.

The city polices Economic Offences Wing (EOW) had registered a case against Pednekar and two senior officials of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) under various Indian Penal Code sections, including 420 (cheating) and 120 (B) (criminal conspiracy).

The case is linked to COVID-19 centres scam allegedly involving misappropriation of funds in management of health facilities and financial irregularities in purchases of body bags for deceased coronavirus patients, masks and other items by the BMC during the pandemic.

It is based on a complaint filed with the EOW by BJP leader Kirit Somaiya last month.

Pednekar held the position of mayor from November 2019 to March 2022.

In her pre-arrest bail plea, filed through advocate Rahul Arote, the former mayor claimed she has been falsely implicated in the case. Pednekar claimed the complaint against her is tainted with mala fides, politically motivated, and made with an ulterior motive.

Her plea claimed that Somaiya, the former Lok Sabha MP from Mumbai, is a habitual complainant who has a history of targeting politicians who do not owe allegiance to his party.
As BJP-led Centre on Tuesday announced a Rs 200 per cylinder cut in prices of domestic cooking gas, ahead of 2024 Lok Sabha elections, leaders have reacted from across the pollical spectrum.

Announcing the decision, Information and Broadcasting Minister Anurag Thakur said that this was done to provide relief to households.

Thakur also refused that the decision had anything to do with elections and dubbed it a gift from the Narendra Modi government to woman on the occasion of Onam and Raksha Bandhan.

This means means citizens will now get a cylinder for around Rs 900, while the nearly 9.6 crore PM Ujjwala scheme beneficiaries will get a cylinder for around Rs 700.

At present, a 14.2-kg LPG cylinder in the Delhi costs Rs 1,103  more than double the rate it came for in May 2020. It will cost Rs 903 when the decision is implemented from Wednesday.

#WATCH | The prices of the LPG gas cylinders for domestic use have been brought down by Rs 200 per cylinder, for each and every user. At the same time, 75 lakhs new gas connections will be given under the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala YojanaPradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana pic.twitter.com/2dJoUQv86c ANI (@ANI) August 29, 2023

For Ujjwala beneficiaries, the price will be Rs 703 after considering the continuing Rs 200 per cylinder subsidy.

BJP National President JP Nadda expressed his heartfelt gratitude for the decision taken under the chairmanship of PM Modi.

  @narendramodi                            700          900          Jagat Prakash Nadda (@JPNadda) August 29, 2023

Modi jis gift to our women power on the auspicious occasion of Raksha Bandhan. This decision of Modi ji will benefit 33 crore consumers across the country, Nadda wrote on X.

Union Minister Smriti Irani told CNN-News18 that she was extremely grateful to PM Modi for extending his support to the families.

Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan also reacted to the announcement calling it PM Modis gift to his sisters on Raksha Bandhan.

The government has also approved 75 lakh additional Ujjwala connections. This is a historic step by PM Modi, Pradhan added.

On the other hand, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee said that the Centres decision to slash the prices is an impact of the INDIA opposition alliance.

Till now, only TWO meetings have been held in the past TWO months by the INDIA alliance and today, we see that LPG prices have gone down by Rs 200. Yeh hai #INDIA ka dum! Banerjee said in a post on X, formerly Twitter.

Till now, only TWO meetings have been held in the past TWO months by the INDIA alliance and today, we see that LPG prices have gone down by Rs. 200.  #INDIA  !  Mamata Banerjee (@MamataOfficial) August 29, 2023

TMC spokesperson Kunal Ghosh called this a poll gimmick ahead of the general elections.

News18 was the first to report on August 18 that the government could soon cut LPG cylinder prices, which had reached a record high of Rs 1,103.

These high LPG prices were hurting the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in state elections and women voters, who have backed the BJP in a big way, were not happy. High LPG prices were also seen as the reason behind the BJPs losses in Karnataka and Himachal Pradesh.

The move comes before the crucial state elections in Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh and Telangana. At least 75 lakh new PM Ujjwala beneficiaries will also be added to the 9.6 crore existing beneficiaries, the government announced.
Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister Hardeep Singh Puri hailed the Centres decision to reduce LGP prices by Rs 200 per cylinder as Raksha Bandhan gift by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to women in the country.

In an exclusive interview with CNN-News18, the Union Minister said the Prime Minister is sensitive towards the needs of vulnerable sections of society.

Tomorrow is Raksha Bandhan and I think in the true spirit of this festival. I think this is a gift that goes out from the government from the prime minister personally to all the sisters. It becomes Rs 200 cheaper for everyone and those who are DBT beneficiaries, and Ujjwala beneficiaries, were already getting Rs 200 now they will be getting 200 more. Today 9.60 crore Ujjwala beneficiaries are there, we are adding 75 lakhs more to that, he said.

LPG Cylinder Prices Slashed by Rs 200: PM Modis Rakhi, Onam Gift Fuels Poll Fest Talk

When asked if the decision is taken in view of upcoming elections, Puri said it has nothing to do with elections. Elections keep happening it has nothing to do with this, he added.

You should ask Congress people when they were in the government how did they faced this challenge, they floated oil bonds Rs 3.5 lakh crore, we need to return because of that, he added.

PM Sh @narendramodi Ji has taken the bold step of reducing LPG cylinder price by 200/cylinder for all LPG consumers (33 crore connections)PM Ujjwala Yojana consumers will continue to the get the subsidy of 200/cylinder in their accounts.#CabinetDecisions pic.twitter.com/wiPefRwe5n Hardeep Singh Puri (@HardeepSPuri) August 29, 2023

The Central government has cut the LPG cylinder prices for all by Rs 200. Citizens will now get a cylinder for around Rs 900, while the nearly 9.6 crore PM Ujjwala scheme beneficiaries will get a cylinder for around Rs 700, as they earlier got the Rs 200 subsidy.

The move comes before the crucial state elections in Rajasthan, Chattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh and Telangana. At least 75 lakh new PM Ujjwala beneficiaries will also be added to the 9.6 crore existing beneficiaries, the government announced.

The LPG price has nearly doubled over the past three years. The Opposition-ruled states, too, targeted the Centre on the high LPG cylinder prices, making the situation uncomfortable for the BJP.
Will he, wont he seems to be the question on everyones mind in Maharashtra as the NCP  torn down the middle due to a family rebellion  struggles to find its footing.

The party, as of now, has two state presidents. While a big chunk of leaders has joined the Eknath Shinde-Devendra Fadnavis led government in the state, the other faction is with the INDIA alliance.

Ajit Pawar has advised uncle and NCP supremo Sharad Pawar to retire, given his age, but Senior Pawar is holding rallies in constituencies of leaders who have now became cabinet ministers. Sharad Pawar recently held rallies in Chaggan Bhujbals constituency in Nasik district, Dhananjay Mundes constituency in Beed district and Hasan Mushirs constituency in Kolhapur, criticising the leaders decision to jump ship. However, his daughter Supriya Sule is of the opinion that there is no split in the NCP.

The current scenario in the NCP reminds one the old Akbar and Birbal tale in which the emperor got a parrot and ordered his staff to take utmost care of the bird. Unfortunately, the parrot died in some days due to change in weather and the caretaker, fearing Akbars anger, sought Birbals help.

The quick-witted Birbal informed Akbar that his parrot had become a saint who just looks up but has stopped eating and moving. On taking a look at the bird, the emperor discovered that it had died. He also understood Birbals clever thinking and realised his mistake.

However, in the case of NCP, it seems there is no Birbal left in the party. Ajit Pawar, who rebelled against his own uncle, has severely damaged Sharad Pawar. He not only took 43 MLAs with him but also the rank and file of the party.

Once upon a time, NCP MLAs or leaders from any corner of Maharashtra would mark their attendance in Nariman Point-based YB Chavan Centre on one call from Sharad Pawar. However, no rush is seen in the premises now. Instead, people can be seen at Devagiri  the official residence of Maharashtras deputy chief minister and finance minister Ajit Pawar.

Political observers say Sharad Pawars politics has always revolved around power and that is how the NCP came into being. Now, its a major challenge for the veteran leader to keep his remaining flock together and align himself with the anti-BJP line to keep his faction and himself relevant in todays scenario.

Its not easy for Sharad Pawar to maintain this stand, especially as one faction enjoys power and the other lives in fear of central agencies coming knocking. In such a scenario, taking NCP ahead will be the biggest task for Sharad Pawar at this juncture.

Before Ajit Pawars visit to Baramati, Supriya Sules statement about the former still being leader of the party and insistence that there is no split in the NCP has created confusion not only in the party cadre but also in the alliance partners. There is an off-record discussion in the MVA that Sharad Pawar should make his stand clear.

Though the senior leader says he is with the INDIA alliance and will remain in Maha Vikas Aghadi, one wonders how he can deny the split in his own party.

According to some political observers, NCP and its workers were always taught to work out the perfect formula for power but hardly told about ideology. Hence, in the current situation, its a straight war between two ideologies  one is pro-BJP and the other is against it.

Sharad Pawars NCP is part of both camps but it seems the veteran leader has a solution for this too. He has started campaigning against non-Maratha leaders of the Ajit Pawar faction, which means he wants to give a straight message to that camp that non-Maratha leaders  who used to get Maratha votes because of Sharad Pawar  now cant use his brand name.

On the other hand, Sharad Pawar has kept the remaining flock with him under the impression that he is with his nephew and anything can happen any moment. Sharad Pawar is known to keep all cards close to his chest and wants people to keep guessing his next move. Though this style has worked for him in politics, now he is in a situation where he has to clear the air on NCP and its factions. According to sources, MVA wants Sharad Pawar to come clean before the next INDIA meeting in Mumbai.
Apple could be selling more iPhones than brands like Samsung in the market by next year, which is likely to make the Cupertino-based giant the top dog in the global smartphone segment.

And all this will be made possible with the success of the iPhone 15 series which is launching next month. Industry analysts are quietly bullish about the new iPhones, especially the Pro Max variant, which is expected to feature a periscope lens for the first time in Apples history.

The sales of the iPhone 15 series are projected to help Apple surpass Samsung as the top smartphone brand and that will be reflected in the industry report coming in 2024 once the major chunk of sales are accounted for by the analysts.

As mentioned by Ming-Chi Kuo, Samsungs sales in the past year have gone down by 10 per cent, and the South Korean brand is likely to sell around 220 million phones in the next 12 months.

Apple is expected to grow at 10 per cent, with a total sale volume of 250 million units during the same period. Kuo says that the rumoured design changes and camera upgrades could help the company garner higher interest, not only for the Pro variants but for the vanilla and Plus models of the iPhone 15 series as well.

Going to the top of the pile in the market will invariably help Apple please its shareholders further as the share prices will jump into the green. It is hardly surprising that everyone is keenly awaiting the new iPhone series, and were probably just a few weeks from getting our first look at the iPhone 15 lineup.

The new iPhones could get the Dynamic Island notch on all the models this year, while the Pro version takes the new A17 chip under the hood, and upgraded cameras. Some reports have suggested that Apple could rebrand the iPhone 15 Pro Max as Ultra this year, but were not too sure about that happening this year.
Elon Musk-owned popular micro-blogging platform X (previously called Twitter) was functioning again on Monday after experiencing some issues in the United States.

According to the outage tracking website Downdetector.com, which tracks outages by collating status reports from several sources including users, there were more than 18,000 incidents of people in the United States reporting issues with X.

The company has not responded to this outage yet. In related news, X recently experienced a major glitch that resulted in the loss of all legacy photos posted before December 2014. The company has since acknowledged the bug on its @support account.

Over the weekend we had a bug that prevented us from displaying images from before 2014. No images or data were lost. We fixed the bug, and the issue will be fully resolved in the coming days, the company said.

Many users were left annoyed after their images from 2014 and before disappeared. In fact, some of the most popular images ever posted on X including Ellen DeGeneres famous selfie from the Oscars 2014 with multiple celebritieswere also removed as part of this glitch.

Under Elon Musks leadership, X corp has undergone a number of changes, including rebranding from Twitter to X, reworking the verification system to be part of X Premium, and changing the name of X Premium multiple times, from Twitter Blue to X Blue to X Premium. These changes have been met with mixed reactions, with some users praising the new features and others criticizing the changes.

Elon Musks X has also launched the beta for XHiringa new platform for verified organizations, wherein they can post job listings for various roles and organically reach suitable candidates.

Ever since Elon Musk acquired X (formerly known as Twitter), its users have witnessed a fair share of changesconsidered both positive and negative.

Recently, the X app has been striving to incorporate features like live streaming and now, the XHiring platformpositioned to compete with the likes of LinkedIn, Indeed and Monster.
Google Vs Amazon Vs Microsoft: All major tech brands including Google, Apple, Meta ( previously known as Facebook), and Microsoft pay their engineers better than other major companies, according to a new report.

This comes after news went viral about a Google software engineers claim to earn an impressive $150,000 annually (approximately Rs 1.2 crore) by working just one hour a day.

Google and Meta usually give higher pay to their software engineers compared to other major tech companies, as per Blind, an anonymous website for tech employees. The report claims that Apple and Microsoft, on the other hand, typically pay the least to new engineers.

However, when considering higher positions, the pay tends to be similar among the major tech companies. The information provided by Blind is from people who shared their own salary details between January of the previous year and August 2023. The forum requires people to confirm where they work by using their work email.

The report also revealed that, in Amazon, it might take more time to move up in your job, and the company also has a vast range of salaries for engineers. It shows that the total pay can be quite different from person to person.

According to the report, even though the iPhone maker Apples overall pay might not be as high as other companies, their job levels and salary ranges are dependable and equitable.

As for Google, its said that their pay ranges are among the most even in the tech industry. This means its quite difficult for someone at a lower job level to get paid more than someone at a higher level.

The report also suggested that engineers at Meta, the parent company of Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp, seem to get promoted relatively quickly and receive some of the highest pay.

Also, Microsoft has various job levels for software engineers. This might let them offer more promotions flexibly. However, their overall pay is less than other companies across all levels.
A former US Marine, Jimmy Lippert Thyden, had an emotional reunion with his biological mother, Maria Angelica Gonzalez, after an astonishing 42 years. Jimmys life took a dramatic turn after he discovered that he was stolen shortly after his birth. According to his Facebook post, a nurse informed Maria that her premature baby needed an incubator. The nurse later returned with devastating news, stating that the baby had died. Maria spent decades believing she had lost her son, while in reality, he was abducted and was adopted by a family in Arlington, Virginia. All this time, Jimmy had no idea about any surviving relatives in Chile.

He revealed, What I didnt know was that 42 years ago, my Mama was cheated out of my existence. Victim of a deeply rooted and well organised lie. The government of Chile under Pinochet had an evil scheme to take children out of Chile, away from their families and adopt them out of the country for profit. The unwitting adoptive parents paid for what they believed to be legitimate fees. Fees for doctor appointments, subsistence for biological parents, etc."

In April, Jimmy Lippert Thyden came across a USA TODAY article about a California man discovering he was stolen from his Chilean mother and illegally adopted in the US. This revelation made him wonder if he was also the victim of the same crime.

Within 42 days, with the help of his US family, the USA Today article, the efforts of dedicated individuals at Nos Buscamos, and a DNA kit from My Heritage, he found out the truth.

In a conversation with the news portal, Jimmy said, She didnt know about me because I was taken at birth from her, and she was told I was dead and when she asked for my body, they told her that they had disposed it. So, we never held each other, never hugged and today Im gonna get to do that for first time."

His mother, Maria Angelica Gonzalez added, A miracle from god, truly a miracle, when I learnt that he was alive, I couldnt believe it, I said, no, can it be? How? When? Its something very painful, very strong to learn that he was alive."

Reportedly, Jimmy Lippert Thyden was among the thousands of infants, mostly from low-income families, who were separated from their mothers in Chile during the rule of former President Augusto Pinochet Ugarte.

 Mama te amo, fue lo primero que dijo Jimmy Lippert Thyden a su madre cuando la abrazo luego de casi 4 decadas sin verla.Jimmy fue uno de los mas de 20.000 bebes que fueron arrebatados a sus madres, en su mayoria ninos y ninas de bajos ingresos, en Chile durante la dictadura pic.twitter.com/vhETVEoFka  Roberto Kiltro (@RobertoMerken) August 27, 2023

Residing in Ashburn, Virginia, with his wife and two daughters, Thyden shared that the experience of meeting his mother was truly incredible. However, he acknowledged that its a complex period for him as he gets to know the rest of the family, which includes a sister and four brothers.
An Indian man who recently visited the Louvre Museum in Paris took to Reddit and shared a shocking incident where a fellow Indian uncle asked him to give his ticket during exiting. The post, which is now going viral, has shocked people online. Many have also claimed that this is a scam which often happens with Indians in foreign land. Taking to Reddit sub r/India, the anonymous user shared that while he was resting with his family near the exit area at Louvre Museum after a long tiring walk to see Mona Lisa painting, an uncle approached him. What happens next will stun you.

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Bete, if you are done with the tour, can you please hand over the tickets to me? It is a waste thing for you anyways as you are exiting, the uncle requested the man. However, he subtly declined his request and said that he is not interested in landing up in trouble. Also, there are CCTV cameras everywhere so he should be careful. Sorry uncle, I dont want to land in any trouble. Plus there are CCTVs everywhere so you must yourself be warned, he wrote.

Further, he asked fellow Reddit users as to what they think of the incident.

Since being uploaded, the post has gone viral with multiple responses. One person wrote, They might look like your typical unkill. But no. Theyre scammers who try to sell these tickets to other unsuspecting tourists saying that its still valid and when they cant enter they create a ruckus and refuse to give them their money back. He further mentioned that this happens in Berlin too. Sharing a personal experience, he wrote, I was approached by an Indian/Pakistani guy who was trying to sell me cheap tickets and while going out, we saw the same guy asking others for their paper tickets. One of our group member said he has an e-ticket so he left him alone.

Also Read: Mysterious Village in Assam With Population of 2,500 People Where Birds are Suicidal

Another person wrote, When I visited Paris, I was surprised to see so many Indians selling water/beer/souvenir/etc near tourist spots. These were young Indians who probably migrated recently because they werent able to speak French fluently. When they would see police nearby, they would move out quickly. Assuming that it was illegal to sell and/or they were illegal migrants.

Have you ever had any such experience?
I have a madness for distributing helmets, just like an alcoholic has an addiction to alcohol, stated Raghvendra Kumar, a 36-year-old renowned as the Helmet Man of India. His prominence surged when he launched his campaign of providing helmets along the Agra-Lucknow Expressway. As per reports, Raghvendra has been engaged in helmet distribution since 2014, spurred by a distressing incident that profoundly affected him.

While his identity as a benevolent figure, having gifted over 56,000 helmets and potentially saved around 30 lives, is widely recognised, his narrative has recently regained attention on Reddit and endured the test of time.

Also Read: Bewakoofiyan: Bride Rides Scooty Without Helmet, Delhi Police Responds

Promptly following the resurgence of his story, admiration from the public poured in once again. A commentator expressed, No doubt he is doing a very great job but I think its too much. Sacrificing everything for this, for people who dont even care about it. Another voice chimed in with, Imagine how many tragedies he will help prevent. What a bro! Simultaneously, concerns arose regarding his means of buying numerous helmets pointing out the financial challenges.

However, what shattered him and led him to leave his job to get involved in the campaign? In 2014, Raghvendra experienced the loss of his close friend and roommate, Krishna Kumar Thakur, a native of Madhubani in Bihar, due to a road accident.

Raghvendra, hailing from Bihars Kaimur district, shared a hostel room with Krishna Kumar in Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh. While Raghvendra pursued Law at Lloyd Law College, Krishna Kumar studied engineering at IILM College of Engineering. Krishna wasnt wearing a helmet. He suffered a head injury, but there were no other injuries on any other part of his body. After the accident on the Yamuna Expressway, which was newly built, nobody came to his help. It was only after an hour that one person spotted him and rushed him to a hospital, Raghvendra shared.

This incident spurred him to relinquish his prestigious role as a legal advisor to numerous multinational corporations, transitioning into a full-time road safety volunteer. Raghvendra disclosed that he sold his Greater Noida house for Rs. 52 lakhs in 2018; he had originally purchased it for Rs. 43 lakhs in 2013. His wife also parted with her jewellery, valued at Rs. 15 lakhs, and he sold his bitcoins worth Rs. 75 lakhs.

Even as the Times of India reported his financial struggles, his dedication remained steadfast despite facing bankruptcy. Call me a madman but Ill continue with my endeavor for road safety, he affirmed. Ill shift back to my ancestral village Bhadari pr Kaimur district of Bihar, as I cannot sustain the expense of buying helmets and taking care of my family simultaneously. I have a six-year-old son whom I am planning to get admitted in a government school as a cost-cutting measure but Ill continue to buy helmets and save lives.

Also Read: Tables Have Turned: Cops Riding Bike Without Helmets Are Chased By Women

Although financial constraints are a hurdle, Raghvendra remains steadfast, refusing to retreat as long as he can maintain his mission.
Delhi, the capital city of India, is known for its monuments, nightlife and scrumptious delicacies. It happens to be one of the top tourist cities in the country. From taking a stroll at India Gate to eating the best street food in Chandni Chowk and then partying at night at a fancy club  Delhi has it all. There is this side and then there is another side with narrow roads and garbage littered in the open. An image which is currently doing rounds on social media and massively outraged Delhiites. It shows heaps of trash lying around on a road, right next to a water body in the National capital.

Also Read: UP Man Dies of Heart Attack on Reaching Theatre to Watch Sunny Deols Gadar 2

The image is not just a sad sight to watch but it also depicts the unhygienic conditions that one has to live in. Why is Delhi so dirty? wrote the Reddit user while putting up the image. The image shows the side of the road filled with plastic bags, leftover food, and whatnot. The trash pile is going down till the water body, making it a breeding ground for mosquitoes.

Here, have a look for yourself:

Since being uploaded, the image has garnered multiple responses. Just landed in Delhi.booked a hotel in Dwarka sector 9 and dealing with dirt and mosquitoes. cant sleep, commented a Reddit user. Another person wrote, When I visited Delhi, I was surprised there were few to none trash bin everywhere I went , lack of public trash bin could be one of the reasons. Another person wrote, Enough of the meet ups at movie theater. Why dont we organize a clean drive!! Im sure we can do something!!!

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Meanwhile, earlier, Delhi gave close competition to Mumbai, after it logged its highest July day rain in over 40 years as extreme monsoon showers drenched the city. This was accompanied by waterlogging and intense traffic for the residents and commuters. A yellow alert was placed for the next day. With 153 mm of rain in 24 hours, the city recorded the highest rainfall on a July day since 1982 and third highest since 1958. Amidst the heavy downpour, many took to X, formerly known as Twitter and shared dreadful images and videos of waterlogged roads. The visuals on social media show knee-deep water and waterlogging at several places of Delhi. These extreme showers even led to the death of one person in Karol Bagh and 15 house-collapse incidents.
Alabama is seeking to become the first state to execute a prisoner by making him breathe pure nitrogen.

The Alabama attorney generals office on Friday asked the state Supreme Court to set an execution date for death row inmate Kenneth Eugene Smith, 58. The court filing indicated Alabama plans to put him to death by nitrogen hypoxia, an execution method that is authorized in three states but has never been used.

Nitrogen hypoxia is caused by forcing the inmate to breathe only nitrogen, depriving them of oxygen and causing them to die. Nitrogen makes up 78% of the air inhaled by humans and is harmless when inhaled with oxygen. While proponents of the new method have theorized it would be painless, opponents have likened it to human experimentation.

Alabama authorized nitrogen hypoxia in 2018 amid a shortage of drugs used to carry out lethal injections, but the state has not attempted to use it until now to carry out a death sentence. Oklahoma and Mississippi have also authorized nitrogen hypoxia, but have not used it.

The disclosure that Alabama is ready to use nitrogen hypoxia is expected to set off a new round of legal battles over the constitutionality of the method.

The Equal Justice Initiative, a legal advocacy group that has worked on death penalty issues, said Alabama has a history of failed and flawed executions and execution attempts and experimenting with a never before used method is a terrible idea.

No state in the country has executed a person using nitrogen hypoxia and Alabama is in no position to experiment with a completely unproven and unused method for executing someone, Angie Setzer, a senior attorney with the Equal Justice Initiative said.

Alabama attempted to execute Smith by lethal injection last year, but called off the execution because of problems inserting an IV into his veins. It was the states second such instance within two months of being unable to put an inmate to death and its third since 2018. The day after Smiths aborted execution, Gov. Kay Ivey announced a pause on executions to conduct an internal review of lethal injection procedures. The state resumed lethal injections last month.

Smith was one of two men convicted in the 1988 murder-for-hire slaying of a preachers wife. The Alabama attorney general argued it is time to carry out the death sentence.

It is a travesty that Kenneth Smith has been able to avoid his death sentence for nearly 35 years after being convicted of the heinous murder-for-hire slaying of an innocent woman, Elizabeth Sennett, Attorney General Steve Marshall said Friday in a statement.

Alabama has been working for several years to develop the nitrogen hypoxia execution method, but has disclosed little about its plans. The attorney generals court filing did not describe the details of the how the execution would be carried out. Corrections Commissioner John Hamm told reporters last month that a protocol was nearly complete.

A number of Alabama inmates seeking to block their executions by lethal injection, including Smith, have argued they should be allowed to die by nitrogen hypoxia.

Robert Grass, an attorney representing Smith, declined to comment Friday.

Sennett was found dead on March 18, 1988, in the home she shared with her husband on Coon Dog Cemetery Road in Alabamas Colbert County. Prosecutors said Smith was one of two men who were each paid $1,000 to kill Sennett on behalf of her husband, who was deeply in debt and wanted to collect on insurance.

The slaying, and the revelations over who was behind it, rocked the small north Alabama community. The other man convicted in the killing was executed in 2010. Charles Sennett, the victims husband and a Church of Christ pastor, killed himself when the investigation began to focus on him as a possible suspect, according to court documents.
To divert attention from its economic crisis, China is pursuing a campaign to erase the Tibetan culture, which has even led to concerns from the United Nations (UN), according to sources close to Tibet.

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In a letter to the Chinese authorities, the UN recently stated that one million children have been separated from their families and moved forcibly to residential schools. The Chinese foreign ministry called the report completely unfounded" and said the Tibet region enjoys social stability, economic development, ethnic unity, religious harmony, and people live and work in peace".

The states dominant concept of nation or minzu, the core of Chinas current second-generation ethnic policy (ronghe), regards all national, ethnic, linguistic and religious groups as secondary and subordinate to the state.

They have stopped our movement from one part of Tibet to another just to prove their point and control," said sources, adding, China has deliberately made the Tibet Autonomous Region to divert worlds attention. Another idea behind dividing Tibet is to divide the strength and population into three regions. We have to seek permission for religious tourism from one region to another, even then we are profiled by the Chinese authorities. They are taking our children away and putting them in residential schools for a very long period of time to brainwash them."

The programme appears aimed at unwillingly integrating Tibetans into Chinas majority Han culture, with compulsory education in Mandarin and no instruction culturally relevant to the Buddhist-majority Himalayan region, the special rapporteurs said.

Sources said protest suicides are being reported from all the three regions, not only Tsang. We are safe only because of His Holiness. Otherwise, we would have also landed in detention centres like Uighurs," sources said.

THE UN CONCERNS: ONE MILLION CHILDREN SEPARATED

Secretary of State Antony Blinken last week said the United States would restrict visas to Chinese officials behind the policy of state boarding schools. These coercive policies seek to eliminate Tibets distinct linguistic, cultural and religious traditions among younger generations of Tibetans," Blinken said in a statement.

We urge the Peoples Republic of China (PRC) authorities to end the coercion of Tibetan children into government-run boarding schools and to cease repressive assimilation policies, both in Tibet and throughout other parts of the PRC," he said, referring to the Peoples Republic of China.

The United States, since 2021, has accused China of waging genocide in another region, Xinjiang, through what US officials, rights groups and witnesses say is a vast network of forced labor camps. China denies the charge.

A separate report this year from UN experts said that hundreds of thousands of Tibetans have also been forced out of traditional rural life into low-skill vocational training" as a pretext to undermine their identity.

CHINAs ECONOMIC CRISIS

China is facing internal crises after their Covid and zero-COVID policy backfired. The financial condition is weakening on a daily basis and people are against President Xi Jinping.

ALSO READ | Chinas Economic Crisis: Xi Jinpings Policies & The 5 Key Factors | News18 Analysis

China is also facing a labour problem because the youth are unwilling to live in big cities, including in Shenzhen, which is called the city of youth. Many are willing to migrate back to their rural homes because of the uncertainty of unemployment.

Another factor which escalated the economic crisis is major defaults on loan repayments.

With Agency Inputs
Ukraine said Tuesday that its forces had pushed deeper into Russian defensive lines near the village of Robotyne, one day after claiming control over the village on the southern front.

Kyiv launched a grinding counteroffensive in June after stockpiling Western-supplied weapons and building up assault battalions, but progress has been slow.

Military spokesman Andriy Kovalyov said Ukrainian forces were edging further in the Zaporizhzhia region, which Moscow claims is part of Russia.

Ukrainian forces had successes in the direction of Novodanylivka to Verbove, he told state media on Tuesday, naming two hamlets in the war-battered region.

He added that the troops were holding captured territory and attacking Russian artillery.

Compared to offensives last year in the Kherson and Kharkiv regions, this time Ukrainian forces are crashing into Russian defensive lines of trenches and minefields that are kilometres deep.

But analysts say the capture of Robotyne is evidence that Ukrainian forces can puncture Russian lines as they push south.
Gang members in Port-au-Prince opened fire on parishioners at an evangelical church marching to protest criminal mayhem in their district, Haitian police said Monday.

The death toll from Saturdays attack, the latest burst of violence from gangs that control most of the city, remained unknown.

The march was organized by Pastor Marco Zidor, leader of the Piscine de Bethesda evangelical church. Zidor had gathered his followers, some carrying machetes or sticks, to march toward the area held by members of the Canaan gang in the north of the capital.

However, presumed gang members opened fire with automatic weapons as the crowd arrived. Videos broadcast by the gang show numerous corpses strewn about.

Contacted by AFP, an official from the Piscine de Bethesda church said he was not in a position to give any information at the moment.

Haitian National Police on Monday condemned a regrettable tragedy, saying its forces had tried to avoid a bloodbath.

Police set up security perimeters and sought to convince the parishioners to desist in order to avoid bloodshed at the hands of bandits who had an arsenal of war weapons at their disposal, a police statement said.

However, the demonstrators bypassed the security arrangements and still arrived in the desired areas to confront the members of said gang, it added.

Police said the confrontation left several demonstrators shot dead and several others wounded. Some of the faithful are held hostage.

Among the survivors was Zidor, and government prosecutor Roosevelt Zamor summoned him to court Monday to answer to accusations that he led followers to their deaths.

The Je Klere Foundation, a human rights group, called on prosecutors to crack down on those responsible, noting that incitements to violence in sermons are criminal acts provided for and punished by the Haitian Criminal Code.

More than 2,400 people have been killed in Haiti since the start of 2023 amid rampant gang violence, the UN said earlier this month.

Gangs control roughly 80 percent of the capital, and violent crimes including kidnappings for ransom, carjackings, rape and armed theft are common.
Imran Khan will be released on bail as the Islamabad High Court (IHC) on Tuesday suspended the former Pakistan prime ministers conviction and three-year sentence in the Toshakhana case.

A division bench comprising Chief Justice Aamer Farooq and Justice Tariq Mehmood Jahangiri gave the verdict.

Earlier in August, an Islamabad court sentenced Imran Khan to a three-years in prison. The former prime minister is currently in the Attock Jail in Rawalpindi.

The CJ has accepted our request, suspended the sentence and said a detailed decision would be provided later, Imran Khans lawyer, Naeem Haider Panjotha, posted on X, formerly known as Twitter, shortly after the hearing.

A district and sessions court had found him guilty of corruption in matters related to the Toshakhana, which is the state gift repository. Imran Khan was also disqualified from holding any public office due to the conviction. He was arrested shortly after the court ruling earlier this month.

Imran Khan filed the appeal in the Islamabad High Court against his conviction and also approached the Supreme Court against the decision taken by the high court where it remanded the case back to the trial court judge who had convicted him.

The lawyer representing the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) Amjad Pervaiz said the objections to the maintainability of the ECPs complaint had no basis and the witnesses presented by Imran Khans legal team were not relevant because they were mere tax consultants.

Imran Khans legal team sought the suspension of his conviction and had urged the court to declare both the conviction and sentence in the case as illegal. It also said that the ECPs complaint against Imran Khan was inadmissible.

Imrans sisters Aleema Khan and Uzma Khan also were present in the court. Meanwhile, the former interior minister Rana Sanaullah said that Imran Khan will have to face arrest in several other cases pending against him.

Khan faces accusations that he purchased the gifts he received as prime minister at a very cheap rate and then sold them in the open market at high prices, earning staggering profits.

He remains accused of misusing his 2018 to 2022 prime ministerial tenure to buy and sell gifts which were to be possession of the state and which were worth more than $635,000 or PKR 140 million.

There were watches given by a royal family which government officials allege that Khans aides sold in Dubai.

There were also seven wristwatches, six made by watchmaker Rolex and a very expensive Master Graff limited edition watch valued at PKR 85 million ($385,000) which were among the gifts that were sold.

The Toshakhana is a repository of gifts the premier receives during state visits abroad, foreign trips or when foreign officials visit the nation. They can keep gifts if they have a low worth but in case of very costly items they must pay a reduced fee to the government to procure it.
A Pakistani court on Tuesday granted pre-arrest bail to Bushra Bibi, wife of jailed former prime minister Imran Khan, till September 12 in multiple graft cases, it emerged on Tuesday.

Bushra Bibi, 49, appeared before the accountability court in Islamabad along with her lawyers Latif Khosa and Intizar Hussain Panjutha.

The court approved her bail plea against a surety bond of Rs 500,000, the Express Tribune newspaper reported.

Bushra Bibi is named in multiple graft cases, including the Toshakhana and Al-Qadir University Trust cases.

The development came hours after the Islamabad High Court suspended Khans three-year prison term in the Toshakhana corruption case.

The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf: chief was arrested earlier this month in the Toshakhana case and was sentenced to three years in prison by a district court. He is currently lodged in Attock jail in Punjab province.

He is due to appear on Wednesday before a special court constituted to hear cases pertaining to the Official Secrets Act (Amendment) 2023 in connection with the cipher (confidential diplomatic communication) case.
The Pakistan Peoples Partys (PPP) recent steps will create tensions among the Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) coalition partners. The PPP is one of the main coalition partners of the Shehbaz Sharif-led PDM.

The tensions between these coalition partners erupted when the PPP showed its concerns over the delimitation exercise. Last week, the Pakistan election body, the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP), said that the process of fresh delimitation of National and provincial assembly constituencies would be completed by December 14.

This means that the Pakistan elections will be delayed and the new date shall be more than a month beyond the constitutionally-mandated deadline for conducting general elections.

The PPP said that it decided to approve the digital census results at the Council of Common Interests (CCI) only because they were assured that the move will not delay the Pakistan elections.

The Constitution is supreme and there should be general elections within 90 days. Theres no ambiguity and doubt, PPP leader Nayyar Bukhari, who also served as a former Pakistan Bar Council general secretary, was quoted as saying by the Dawn.

We are only worried that these caretakers shouldnt become chair-takers. You are here only to invest your energy and time for the timely elections in three months, PPP leader Sherry Rehman was quoted as saying.

An editorial by the Dawn pointed out that the PPP has now decided to take a forceful stand on the matter despite PDMs Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (F) (JUI-F) and Pakistan Muslim League (N) (PML-N) throwing their weight behind the ECPs decision to go for fresh delimitations.

This may push the PPP and the beleaguered PTI into the same corner, the editorial pointed out.

It should also be noted that the PPP joined the masses in protesting against the highly inflated electricity bills in Karachi. PPP workers burnt tyres and electricity bills and party seniors called on workers to join the demonstrations.

These actions have surprised the PDM, especially Nawaz Sharifs PML-N.

Ahead of the Pakistan elections, it is not a good look for the PDM when one of its coalition partners decides to join the masses to protest against one of the main members of the coalition.

The PPP leaders admitted that they could not afford to stay away from the public protests for a long time because it would send the wrong message.

Meanwhile, a famous face who is now sidelined in the PPP surfaced during the groups Central Election Committee (CEC) meeting. Aitzaz Ahsan fell out of favour with the PPP leadership but when he appeared for the meeting this week this sparked speculation if he would be the tool to bring Imran Khan and the Bhutto-Zardaris together. Ahsan is known to be sympathetic to Imran Khan and has expressed his support for him on several occasions. Only time will tell if he will be glue to bind PTI and PPP together.
US Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo met with Chinas premier on Tuesday, calling for Beijing and Washington to work together to solve issues of global concern.

Raimondos trip to China is the latest by a senior US official in recent months as Washington seeks to defuse tensions with the worlds second-largest economy.

On Tuesday she held another round of talks with Chinese officials, meeting Premier Li Qiang to stress the importance of open communication between the two powers.

Pointing to areas of global concern like climate change, Artificial Intelligence and fentanyl addiction, she told Li that Washington wants to work with you as two global powers to do what is right for all of humanity.

The world is expecting us to step up together to solve these problems, she said.

Raimondo also reiterated the US position that it is not seeking to decouple its economy from Chinas.

We seek to maintain our $700 billion commercial relationship with China, and we hope that that relationship can provide stability for the overall relationship, she said.

Earlier on Tuesday, Raimondo met Chinas Vice Premier He Lifeng, describing the US-China commercial relationship as one of the most consequential in the world.

Managing that relationship responsibly is critical to both of our nations and indeed to the whole world, she said during a part of the meeting open to journalists.

She stressed the US would never compromise in protecting our national security, but added that Washington did not seek to hold Chinas economy back.

He, in response, said Beijing was willing to work on new, positive efforts to keep economic consensus and step up cooperation.

Raimondo heads to Chinas economic powerhouse Shanghai later on Tuesday and will leave the country on Wednesday.

Reduce misunderstanding

The commerce secretary is one of a number of senior US officials to visit China in recent months  part of an effort by Washington to improve its working relationship with its largest strategic rival.

Relations between the two countries have plummeted to some of their lowest levels in decades, with US trade curbs near the top of the list of disagreements.

This month, Biden issued an executive order aimed at restricting certain US investments in sensitive high-tech areas in China  a move Beijing blasted as being anti-globalisation.

The long-anticipated rules, expected to be implemented next year, target sectors such as semiconductors and artificial intelligence.

Raimondos trip has seen the US seek more open discussions with the Chinese over such policies, however.

On Monday she met with Commerce Minister Wang Wentao, with the two sides agreeing to set up a working group to iron out the laundry list of trade disputes between them.

They also agreed to set up what Washington called an export control enforcement information exchange  described as a platform to reduce misunderstanding of US national security policies.

The information exchange was set to convene for the first time at Beijings commerce ministry on Tuesday, Washington said.

Beijing has painted a less rosy picture, saying Wang had raised serious concerns over Washingtons trade curbs on Chinese businesses.

Those included US Section 301 tariffs on Chinese goods, its semiconductor policies, restrictions of two-way investment, discriminatory subsidies, and sanctions on Chinese enterprises, Beijings commerce ministry said.

Washington defends the policies as necessary to de-risk its supply chains.

But Wang warned they run counter to market rules and the principle of fair competition, and will only harm the security and stability of the global industrial and supply chains.
Russia on Monday accused a former US consulate employee of illegally passing data about the Ukraine conflict to American diplomats, drawing a protest from Washington which has called his activities routine.

The Russian Security Service (FSB) also announced it was seeking to question two US diplomats at the embassy in Moscow over the case, in a break from diplomatic tradition.

The announcement is the latest in a series of diplomatic spats building pressure on strained ties between Moscow and Washington, particularly over the conflict in Ukraine.

The FSB said it had charged Russian citizen Robert Shonov, who worked for more than 25 years for the US consulate in the Far Eastern city of Vladivostok, over cooperation on a confidential basis with a foreign state.

The charge carries a maximum prison sentence of eight years.

Russian news agencies meanwhile released undated footage distributed by the FSB showing Shonovs detention on a snow-covered street. It also published images of Shonov testifying on camera.

Shonov left the consulate in 2021, when Moscow imposed restrictions on local staff working for foreign missions.

The US State Department says that Shonov since worked as a private contractor compiling press accounts from publicly accessible Russian media, in strict compliance with Russias laws and regulations.

The allegations against Mr. Shonov are wholly without merit, State Department spokesman Matthew Miller said in response to the charges.

The action only highlights the increasingly repressive actions the Russian government is taking against its own citizens, he said.

He also denounced Russian attempts to question US diplomats, pointing to obligations under the Vienna Convention.

We strongly protest the Russian security services attempts - furthered by Russias state-controlled media - to intimidate and harass our employees, Miller said.

The FSB said Shonov had begun handing information to the American diplomats last September about the conflict and resulting mobilisation, an unpopular move in Russia that sparked an exodus of military-aged men.

It added that Shonov had been tasked with gauging protest sentiment ahead of presidential elections scheduled for next year.

The FSB said the two diplomats, identified as Jeffrey Silin and David Bernstein, worked in the political department in the US embassy in Moscow.
Former Pakistan prime minister Imran Khan will not be released from Attock Jail even though the Islamabad High Court suspended the three-year sentence in the Toshakhana case.

The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) chief will remain in jail in connection with the cipher case and following orders from a special court.

He will be presented before that court on August 30. Former foreign minister of Pakistan Shah Mehmood Qureshi is also facing proceedings in the same case.

The cipher case is related to a diplomatic document which Imran Khan alleges contained a threat from the United States to oust Imran from power. The document went missing from Imran Khans possession.

We have filed a separate application requesting the court pass an order barring the authorities from arresting him in any other case. If authorities arrest him in any other case, it will be against his legal rights, Imran Khans lawyer Gohar Khan said.

However, the special court sent a letter to authorities in Attock prison which said: That accused Imran Khan Niazi s/o Ikramullah Khan Niazi r/o Zaman Park, Lahore is hereby ordered for judicial remand in case FIR mentioned above, who is already detained in district jail, Attock.

Imran Khan will remain in judicial lockup, the Dawn said in its report.

Outside Attock Jail, Imran Khans supporters had amassed hoping that their leader would be released. Chants Release Imran Khan! and Khan, your devotees are countless! were heard outside the Attock Jail but it still remains unclear if and when Imran Khan will be released.

PTI leader Taimur Khan Jhagra said that the nation is demanding that Imran Khan be released today itself. The nation now expects Imran Khan to be released today. The abuse of the law campaign against Imran Khan has sunk the countrys systems far enough. We cannot afford more, Jhagra posted on X, formerly known as Twitter.

Pakistans former prime minister Shehbaz Sharif, who dissolved the government earlier this month, took aim at the judiciary and the apex court.

The Chief Justice of Pakistans message of good to see you and wish you good luck has reached the IHC, Shehbaz Sharif said while reacting to the news and highlighted that Imrans sentence had been suspended and not terminated.

Everyone knew about the verdict before it was even announced. This moment is a matter of concern for our justice system. If a clear message is received from the higher judiciary, what else should the subordinate court do? Sharif further added.
Donald Trump is bracing for an unprecedented 2024. The former president and a four-time criminal defendant in recent months, will have a busy year ahead with elections, primaries and court trials beginning in the next few months.

Heres a look at how the billionaires 2024 agenda could look like and the chances of his representing the Republican party to thwart US President Joe Bidens reelection bid:

Early 2024: Primaries

Donald Trump will kick off his 2024 with Iowa as the Midwestern state begins the first presidential nominating contests of the year on January 15 for the Republican Party.

The primaries can run until June and it plays a major role in American politics as well as elections.

After Iowa, it is likely that the northeastern state of New Hampshire, which borders Canada, will organise its primary in January.

The opinion polls show Trump has a significant lead over his rivals despite four indictments in six months. Poll aggregator RealClearPolitics says that about 53% primary voters plan to cast ballots for him.

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, his closest competitor, stands at 13%.

March: First trial set

Come March 2024, the world and the US will see a former president, who is also a presidential candidate, sit in court as a criminal defendant.

The date for his election subversion conspiracy trial is on March 4, 2024. Trump says this is election interference.

The date is important for another reason  Super Tuesday. On that day, voters in more than a dozen states, including populous California and Texas, go to the polls to select candidates in the primaries.

Donald Trump called the government corrupt for choosing the date. After three weeks, on March 25, Trump will have another court date in New York, where he faces charges over alleged hush money payments made to porn star Stormy Daniels.

May: Florida documents case

Almost eight weeks later, the world will have its eyes on Florida where Donald Trump will be facing charges over his alleged mishandling of classified documents after leaving office.

The fourth trial could even open in 2024 as Trump remains under indictment in Georgia, over an alleged conspiracy to overturn the results of the 2020 election he lost to Joe Biden.

The prosecutor in that case has asked for a 2024 trial.

July: Republican Convention

The Republican nomination for the candidate to challenge Joe Biden will happen in November in Milwaukee mid-July. This marks the final leg of campaigning against Democrat Joe Biden who will formally earn Democratic nomination in Chicago.

November: Election Day

Tens of millions of American voters will head to polling booths on November 5, 2024, to choose the next person to lead the country.

Only time can tell if the United States will see a rematch of the 2020 election between Donald Trump and Joe Biden?

The country has never elected a president who was previously indicted for a crime. But Donald Trump has shown signs that he can upend American political tradition.

(with inputs from AFP)
Press Release

August 29, 2023 Preserving and promoting Filipino cultural heritage for the next generation -- Bong Go lauds approval of cultural mapping act In a significant stride towards preserving the rich tapestry of the Philippines' cultural heritage, Senator Christopher "Bong" Go has expressed his gratitude to President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos, Jr., for signing on Thursday, August 24, Republic Act No. 11961 into law, a measure aimed at fortifying the conservation of the nation's cultural legacy through comprehensive cultural mapping. The bill, co-authored by Go, underscores the nation's commitment to safeguarding its diverse cultural heritage, ensuring its transmission to future generations. Through cultural mapping, local government units (LGUs) are mandated to chart their cultural assets across their respective domains, encompassing both tangible and intangible, as well as natural and built heritage. "Co-author din tayo sa SBN 1841, o Amending RA 10066 (National Cultural Heritage Act of 2009) na ang layunin ay maipreserba at maprotektahan ang ating mayamang pamanang kultura sa pamamagitan ng cultural mapping," Go said. "Sa ilalim nito, aatasan ang local government units na magkaroon ng record ng kanilang cultural assets sa mga lugar na kanilang nasasakupan. Para sa akin ay napakaimportante na mapangalagaan ang ating mayamang kultura para naman maisapuso at maipagmalaki ng mga susunod pang henerasyon ng mga Pilipino," he emphasized. The measure seeks to ensure that the rich legacy of the nation remains intact and vibrant for future generations. "The passage of this law marks a momentous occasion for the Philippines. By enacting this bill, we are not just preserving physical artifacts, but also the essence of what it means to be Filipino. Our culture is the soul of our nation, and its conservation is a responsibility we all share," he added. Go said the cultural mapping bill will not only assist in the identification and preservation of tangible heritage but also play a pivotal role in fostering a stronger sense of cultural pride and awareness among Filipinos. Through community involvement and collaboration, the legislation aims to facilitate a more profound understanding of local traditions and promote intergenerational knowledge transfer. "The institutionalization of cultural mapping is a grassroots approach that empowers local communities to identify and assign cultural value to properties that are important to them," explained Go. "This approach also recognizes that heritage is not just about preserving buildings or artifacts, but also about preserving the intangible aspects of cultural identity that are often overlooked," he added. The process of cultural mapping involves the meticulous identification, documentation, and assessment of cultural assets within a specific locality. Through this comprehensive inventory, LGUs can harness their cultural heritage to foster heritage tourism, enlighten the public, and shield these precious resources from degradation or harm. To facilitate compliance with the cultural mapping requirement, the National Commission for Culture and the Arts, alongside other pertinent cultural agencies, will extend technical and financial support to LGUs. "As the country continues to evolve, initiatives such as the cultural mapping bill underscore the nation's resilience in preserving its identity. Let us collaborate to safeguard our heritage and champion our diverse Filipino identity," Go conveyed.
The oppressive heat index didnt stop the crowd from attending the first Sweet Tea Festival in Alabama held at the Enterprise Civic Center fair grounds Aug. 19.

Enterprise Director of Tourism and Community Relations Tammy Doerer said the official numbers are not yet in but that she started out the event at 11 a.m. with 2,500 hand-held fans and they were all distributed well before the event ended at 4 p.m. And that was just the people who came by my booth, she said. The vendors all reported they had a great day and weve had great customer feedback as well.

The first-time salute to Sweet Tea in the City of Progress featured live music by the Sweet Tea Trio and Hometown Girls, more than 50 vendors, food, contests and, of course, plenty of sweet tea. Attendees enjoyed a sipping and shopping experience with farmers market produce, crafts, and interactive vendor demonstrations, such as Deborah Martin Owens from the Fancy Fork giving tea party table setting and etiquette tips.

The festival and concert were free and open to the public. Parking was available at the Enterprise Civic Center and overflow parking was at Johnny Henderson Family Park.

In the home-brew tea competition, the Peoples Choice Awards went to Erica Massey Parker, Sample #1, for first place; Adrienne Woodruff, Sample #8, for second place; and Mandy Powell, Sample #2, for third place.

In the home-brew tea competition, Judges choice Awards went to Erica Massey Parker for first place; Beryl McNee for second place; and Brenda Roberts for third place.

Doerer said the idea for the inaugural event came from Kay Kirkland, the citys special projects coordinator. It was all Kay, Doerer said. It was a dream of hers for a long time and you should see her book of ideas for next years event.

I am so proud of our city of Enterprise family for the hard work, sweat and a sacrifice that they contributed to make a first time ever event come to life in Enterprise, said Kirkland. I am extremely grateful to Mayor William Cooper and the city council for allowing us to launch this unique festival that we hope to nurture and grow into a statewide event in the years to come.

Kirkland credited Doerer, who she called a force of nature who kept things moving forward, and Community Services and Parks and Rec Director Powell who found a way to meet needs and move obstacles for the events success. Our awesome parks and recreation department staff deserves a 50-gallon sized embrace of appreciation for all the muscle and sweat, she said. And a heartfelt thanks to all the volunteers, she added.

The Community Emergency Response Team volunteers manned a water and first aid station throughout the event. Kirkland also thanked the volunteers from Fort Novosels 1-212th and AIT students for their help. We needed them and they were there.

Many more people were involved in the planning, preparation and implementation of the Sweet Tea Festival but we also recognize that it couldnt have been a success without all of the vendors who braced the heat and the people who came out to enjoy it in spite of the high temperature.

Kirkland extended special thanks to the event sponsors; Chick Fil-A, All In Credit Union, Beef OBradys, Murphy Family Restaurants-McDonalds, Milky Moos, Fatboys Burgers, Enterprise T-Shirts and Pope Tents and Event. You made this inaugural Sweet Tea Festival in Alabama possible, she said.
Several improvements are coming to the Dothan Regional Airport.

We want to continue to be successful, Adam Hartzog, the airports director, said. We want to make it known to the community that were not sitting idle; were trying to grow.

During a regular meeting of the Houston County Commission on Monday, Hartzog met with commissioners to provide an update on what has been going on at the airport and to highlight plans for the facility.

Located at 800 Airport Drive in Dale County, the airport is operated by the Dothan-Houston County Airport Authority and serves southeast Alabama, southwest Georgia, and the Florida Panhandle.

Even though we are in Dale County, we want to have a strong relationship with the entire Wiregrass area, Hartzog said. We always felt weve worked great with our partners in Houston County, and we want to make sure you know were here for you.

Over the last year, around $400,000 has been invested into T-Hanger development and rehab, so general aviation pilots will continue using the airport. Hartzog said two new hangars, totaling about 35,000 square feet, will also be constructed and used for corporate activity.

That gave them a better facility to keep their airplanes, Hartzog said. It has helped to continue growing that pilot community in the Wiregrass area.

Plans for the immediate future include investing over $21 million to be used for upgrading LED lighting and a runway repaving and drainage project.

Outside of infrastructure plans, the airport announced a new Delta schedule, which will allow travelers to make smoother connections.

Were going back to our 6:55 a.m. departure in the morning, Hartzog said. Then well have a mid-afternoon arrival and departure and then a 9 p.m. arrival at night. This is huge for our customers because now when you go to the West Coast, you can connect back into Dothan on the same day. Were hoping with this new schedule, people will be connected to the mainline system.

Hartzog said an economic impact study showed that the Dothan Regional Airport has a major impact on the local economy.

We provide $96 million in economic impact in the state, with a $20 million payroll for our local area, Hartzog said.

Houston County Commission chairman Brandon Shoupe praised Hartzog and his team for the job theyve been doing.

You and your team are doing a great job, Shoupe said. I know youve been aggressively trying to get that schedule changed, including coordinating the additional fight. My family and I are flying out of Dothan in March and look forward to it.

In other action Monday, the county commission:

 Reappointed Lori Wilcoxon and Matt Parker to the Southeast Alabama Regional Planning and Development Commission

 Awarded a bid for the purchase of two vehicles for the Revenue/Reappraisal Dept. to the lowest bidder meeting specs and approved accompanying budget amendment.

 Approved budget amendment for Opioid Settlement.

 Approved budget amendment for Juvenile Services due to increase in cost of services provided.

 Approved contract for the construction of the Homeland Security Warehouse Building to the lowest bidder meeting specs.

 Approved resolution for Storm Water Grant.

 Approved a request to sell an IBM 3995 Optical Storage Library, IBM 6500 Printer, and a Shredder on GovDeals.
UPDATE

Aug 29, 2023 10:40 AM CDT

The Vatican is walking back Pope Francis' words on Russia, while Moscow is walking them forward. As the Wall Street Journal reports, a Vatican rep had this to say about the pontiff's glowing words for Russia's past: "The pope intended to encourage young people to preserve and promote all that is positive in Russia's great cultural and spiritual heritage, and certainly not to exalt imperialist logic and ruling figures." The Kremlin, however, says this: "The pope knows Russian history, and this is very good." Russia is trying "to bring this legacy to our youth, to remind them of it. And that the Pope speaks in unison with these efforts is very gratifying." ABC News notes that the Vatican's reaction came after "Ukraine's Greek Catholic leader, His Beatitude Sviatoslav Shevchuk, bitterly complained about Francis' remarks."

Aug 28, 2023 7:05 PM CDT

Pope Francis has drawn criticism for his interpretation of Russia's past and present in a speech to young people, in which he urged them to carry on the legacy of their nation's imperialist empire. In a video speech to young Russian Catholics meeting in St. Petersburg, Francis said, "You are the heirs of the great Mother Russia, go forward with it," Politico Europe reports. He spoke of "the great Russia of saints, of kings, the great Russia of Peter the Great, of Catherine II, of that great, enlightened Russian empire, of great culture and great humanity."
A poll taken after the Republican presidential debate has found changes in the race, with several candidates inching up and the absent frontrunner losing a bit of support. The Emerson College poll showed Donald Trump falling from 56% support among people who plan to vote in a GOP primary to 50%his low point in an Emerson poll. Trump sat out the debate on Wednesday and has hinted at skipping future debates; the poll results suggest that decision could hurt him, the Hill reports. The poll was conducted Friday and Saturday, surveying 1,000 registered voters and reporting a margin of error of 3 percentage points.

Other candidates rose in the standings, though the former president remains the distant frontrunner. Former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley made the biggest jump, from 2% before the debate to 7%. Former Vice President Mike Pence went from 3% to 7%. Although 27% of Republican voters said entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy won the debate last week, per the Hill, his support fell a point to 9%. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis held onto second place, ticking up 2 points to 12%. Among respondents, 43% said there is a chance they'll change their mind and vote for someone else when the time comes, Emerson writes. (Read more Republican presidential primaries stories.)
A faculty member was shot to death Monday at the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill, sparking an hourslong campus lockdown and a search for the suspect. Chancellor Kevin Guskiewicz told students in an email that he was "devastated and saddened" by the killing of the faculty member at Caudill Laboratories, the Washington Post reports. He said the victim's identity will not be released until relatives are notified. No other casualties were reported. A campus alert was first sent at 1:03pm. At 2:38pm, campus police said, the suspect was taken into custody, per WTVD . The labs, which the school website says is focused on chemistry, are across the street from the landmark Morehead-Patterson Bell Tower.

Campus police Chief Brian James said the suspect would not be identified until he was charged. It's too early to be sure of a motive, James said, and the weapon used has not been found. Sirens sounded, and the campus lockdown lasted a full three hours, with everyone told to shelter in place. Students waiting out the lockdown with others reported that people generally stayed calm. At one point, police escorted students with their hands up from the science buildings, per the AP. Helicopters circled. Parts of Chapel Hill shut down, as well. A week into the semester, the school canceled all classes for Monday and Tuesday.

A professor hiding in his office who was reached by a reporter said that he was once held at gunpoint in a store but said that this lockdown was "far more stressful." Noel Brewer added that, "the students who are locked down and what they're thinking aboutit's just a lot." One student said she used furniture as a barricade in her dorm room. An exchange student from Denmark who's been in the US for two weeks said, "This never happens where I'm from," per the AP. Oliver Katz said he's concerned that his home college will make the exchange students go home early. "I don't want to leave," he said. "I like it here, and I do still feel safe." (Read more campus shooting stories.)
Police in a Columbus suburb fatally shot a pregnant woman in an Ohio supermarket parking lot after she accelerated her car toward an officer, police officials said. Ta'Kiya Young, 21, of Columbus, died Thursday evening in Blendon, the AP reports. A supermarket employee told officers who were at the store on an unrelated matter that multiple people were fleeing from the store with stolen items, Blendon Police Chief John Belford said. That included Young, who had allegedly taken multiple bottles of alcohol. One officer went to the driver's side of Young's car and told her to stop, Belford said, while the other officer moved in front of the vehicle.

Young then put the car in gear and accelerated forward, Belford said, and the officer directly in the vehicle's path fired one shot through the front windshield. Young's car then traveled about 50 feet before coming to a stop on the sidewalk outside the store. She was pronounced dead a short time later. Young was due to give birth in November, her family told the Columbus Dispatch. Her unborn daughter did not survive the shooting. Young was the mother of two sons, ages 6 and 3. The Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation is leading the investigation into the fatal shooting, Belford said. Young's family told the Columbus Dispatch they have many questions about the shooting, mainly why she was deemed a lethal threat.

(Read more Ohio stories.)
Vivek Ramaswamy is getting into it with everyone these days. Last week, he got combative with CNN's Kaitlan Collins over his comments on Taiwan and 9/11. Then the GOP presidential candidate received a cease-and-desist letter from Eminem's team demanding he stop using the rapper's songs on the campaign trail. Now, Ramaswamy's latest sparring partner is Fox News pundit Sean Hannity, who took the 38-year-old candidate to task Monday night over Ramaswamy's proposed policies on Israel. Mediaite notes the "tense interview" became "confrontational straight out of the gate," with Hannity telling Ramaswamy, "You said aid to Israel, our No. 1 ally, only democracy in the region, should end in 2028 and that they should be integrated with their neighbors."

Ramaswamy bristled at that comment, calling it "false." "I have an exact quote. You want me to read it?" Hannity retorted. Ramaswamy then went on to explain what he says he really meant. "I can tell you the exact quote," he noted. "What I said is it would be a mark of success if we ever got to a point in our relationship with Israel if Israel never needed the United States' aid. And Sean, you know how politics is played. A lot of the other professional politicians who have been threatened by my rise have used that statement to say that I would cut off aid to Israel. That's not correct. I've been crystal clear."

Ramaswamy also lauded Israel's border and "tough on crime" policies and boasted of his travels to the nation and business relationships there, vowing that "by the end of my first term, our relationship with Israel will be stronger than it ever has been, because I will treat it as a true friendship, not just a transactional relationship." Hannity kept the debate going, calling Ramaswamy out for saying that Israel shouldn't get "preferential treatment" from the US. Ramaswamy hit back on that as well, noting, "Those are direct quotes from headlines summarized by opposition research fed to the fake news media."

story continues below

Hannity isn't the only conservative pushing back on Ramaswamy's foreign policy takes. Per the Hill, Washington Post columnist Marc Thiessen took to social media on Monday to address a recent article by Ramaswamy on his position on the war in Ukraine. "Criminally stupid," Thiessen wrote on X, formerly Twitter, regarding Ramaswamy's promise, if elected president, to "accept Russian control of the occupied territories and pledge to block Ukraine's candidacy for NATO in exchange for Russia exiting its military alliance with China." "Like a freshman foreign policy paper," Thiessen noted. "Utterly disqualifying." (Read more Vivek Ramaswamy stories.)
An unusual shooting involving a soldier with the Texas National Guard is under investigation. The Guardsman fired across the Rio Grande and wounded a Mexican man Saturday evening, reports the Dallas Morning News . The man identified as Darwin Jose Garcia, 37, was hit in the leg and is recuperating, per the El Paso Times . Why the Guardsman opened fire is unclear. Garcia originally told police he was a migrant attempting to cross the river and enter the US, per the Texas Tribune , though he later told reporters he was merely practicing an unspecified sport by the river when other migrants were attempting to cross. Either way, the use of lethal force remains unexplained, with a spokesperson for the National Guard saying only that the matter is under investigation.

The Washington Post quotes an unnamed Customs and Border Protection official as saying it appears the unidentified Guardsman fired when three men on the Mexican side of the river began attacking migrants who entered the river to cross into the US. If so, the shooting would likely be justified, notes the Post, though it was unclear under this narrative whether Garcia was an innocent bystander struck by the bullet. The Guardsman was on duty as part of Gov. Greg Abbott's Operation Lone Star, an aggressive mission to keep migrants from attempting to cross the border into Texas. "I am deeply troubled by this escalation in force on our border," said Democratic state Sen. Cesar Blanco of El Paso, per the Times. "We are not at war with Mexico." (Read more US-Mexico border stories.)
Fairbanks, AK (99701)

Today

Mostly cloudy early, then sunshine for the afternoon. High around 30F. Winds light and variable..

Tonight

Partly cloudy this evening with more clouds for overnight. Low 18F. Winds light and variable.
The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) remains committed to delivering dedicated support to taxpayers during this tax season.

Assistant Commissioner Tim Loh empathetically acknowledged that navigating the realm of taxes can often feel overwhelming for individuals.

Loh reassured taxpayers, stating, The ATO is here to help with the support you need to get it right this tax time.

Tax Help Program

One notable avenue of support is the Tax Help program, offering a free and confidential service for those with simple tax affairs and an annual income of $60,000 or less. The programs ATO-trained volunteers are available to guide taxpayers through every step of the tax return process. This includes setting up a myGov account, navigating the myTax lodgment platform, determining if a lodgment is unnecessary, and even assisting with amendments in the case of errors. Volunteers are also equipped to help individuals locate forgotten superannuation funds.

Inclusivity is a priority, as the Tax Help program extends its assistance to First Nations people and culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities. Support is provided in a multitude of community languages. The program operates from now until the end of October.

Tax Clinics

For those ineligible for Tax Help, the National Tax Clinic program offers aid to individuals, small businesses, not-for-profit organizations, and charities. This government-funded initiative aids those who may not have the financial means to access professional tax advice.

Support for First Nations People To cater to the unique needs of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, the ATO offers a specialized Indigenous helpline. This helpline offers tailored assistance on a range of topics, from business operations to handling income from the gig economy, educational scholarships, government payments, and more. This service is accessible via 13 10 30 on Monday to Friday, 8:00 am to 6:00 pm, excluding public holidays.

Support for Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Taxpayers Inclusivity extends to culturally and linguistically diverse taxpayers, as the ATO provides translated information in over 20 languages to aid in understanding tax and superannuation concepts in Australia. These resources are available at ato.gov.au/TaxTimeResources.

Self-Help Options

The ATO further empowers taxpayers through digital tools like myTax, the ATO app, and online services for individuals and businesses. These platforms offer the capability to address queries and conduct specific account-related actions. Additionally, the ATO Community, an online discussion platform, facilitates peer-to-peer interactions where community members can seek and share information about tax and super issues.

With more than 122,000 members participating and over 235,000 posts, Assistant Commissioner Loh encourages taxpayers to explore ATO Community for possible solutions to their inquiries.

resources are available at ato.gov.au/TaxTimeResources. ato.gov.au/TaxClinic.

More information about Tax Help is available at ato.gov.au/TaxHelp

Keep up to date with our stories on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.
TDT | Manama

The Daily Tribune  www.newsofbahrain.com

Interior Minister, General Shaikh Rashid bin Abdullah Al Khalifa, highlighted the progress made in developing humanitarian programmes and initiatives in the Kingdom.

He emphasised that they are the fruits of the comprehensive development process launched by His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, who founded these independent humanitarian institutions and enabled them to further advance human rights in the Kingdom, in addition to the ongoing support provided by the Government, led by His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister to implement different reform programs and projects.

This was reflected in the performance of the General Directorate of Reformation and Rehabilitation, which obtained international accreditation from the American Correctional Association after passing all the global quality standards set by the ACA.

Interior Minister affirmed the Ministry of Interiors commitment to continue to cooperate with all institutions concerned with human rights, and to propose and implement different initiatives related to developing the reform and rehabilitation centres, while working on re-integrating inmates back to society.

General Shaikh Rashid bin Abdullah was speaking as he met with the President of the National Institution for Human Rights (NIHR), Engineer Ali Al Derazi, and the Chairperson of the Prisoners and Detainees Rights Commission (PDRC), Ombudswoman Ghada Habib, in the presence of the Interior Ministry Undersecretary, Shaikh Nasser bin Abdulrahman Al Khalifa. During the meeting, the Interior Minister highlighted the professionalism and the important humanitarian role played by the NIHR, the PDRC, and the Ombudswoman in safeguarding and upholding human rights.

The meeting discussed the recommendations arising from the recent inspection visits conducted by the NIHR and PDRC to the Jau Reformation and Rehabilitation Centre, which were in line with the recommendations of the Director-General of Reformation and Rehabilitation.
The Vietnam Association of Seafood Exporters and Producers (VASEP) forecast tuna export orders will increase sharply in the last months of the year due to decreasing inventories in major export markets.

VASEP said the stockpiled quantity of tuna in the U.S., one of the main markets of Vietnam has begun to decrease and importers were considering speeding up imports.

By the end of the year, major markets such as the U.S. will have many festivals, so consumer demand will increase. Meanwhile, preferential tariffs are an advantage that has pushed EU importers to seek orders from Vietnam.

Over the past seven months of this year, Vietnam's tuna exports reached nearly $445.6 million, down 31% year-on-year, VASEP said.

While exports of high-value fresh, frozen and dried tuna products decreased 46%, shipments of processed and canned tuna goods saw a modest rise of 4% to over $204 million, it said.

Besides, exports to the EU, Mexico, Israel and Thailand had recorded high growth over the same period of 2022.

The EU market showed signs of recovery, with a growth rate of 28% in June and July, earning Vietnam a turnover of $12 million per month. Notably, in the bloc, exports to the Netherlands also continuously grew remarkably while that to Germany maintained an increase of 30% in June and July.

Vietnamese tuna exports to Mexico and Chile also recorded hikes of 100% and 90%, respectively. Meanwhile, tuna shipments to Thailand also soared 65% in the last two months.

According to Nguyen Ha, tuna market expert of VASEP, in the context that exports to the main traditional markets had all declined, Israel had emerged as a potential market.

In the first half of this year, Vietnamese tuna exports to Israel hit nearly $25 million, up 92% over the same period last year.

Frozen tuna meat and fillets still accounted for the highest proportion of 47%. The export value of this product group saw a yearly hike of 29%. Meanwhile, the export turnover of canned tuna increased 375% and other processed tuna products surged 83%.

Despite being a small country, with no natural resources and limited domestic labor resources, Israel's consumer demand was quite large and solvency was high, so there remained ample room for Vietnam's tuna exports to the market, Ha said.

Especially, the Vietnam-Israel FTA (VIFTA), signed on July 25, would open up opportunities for Vietnam's seafood exports, including tuna, to access the Israeli market and lucrative Middle East region, Ha said.

To penetrate the Israeli market, VASEP Secretary General Truong Dinh Hoe suggested that tuna exporters ensure product quality, carefully study market information, promote credibility and be responsible.

He vowed that VASEP would accompany, research carefully and disseminate market information to businesses.

To facilitate tuna exports, businesses petitioned the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development and the Ministry of Industry and Trade to grant more quotas for imported raw tuna as domestic tuna raw material could meet only 25% of demand for processing and export, the Binh Dinh Fishery JSC Co suggested.
TDT | Manama

The Daily Tribune  www.newsofbahrain.com

Report by Julia Cassano

Experts in Bahrain are now looking to other methods, such as artificial intelligence (AI), to support sustainable agriculture as global warming worsens and water scarcity becomes more concerning.

Local farmers in Bahrain are already attempting to adapt to global warming by planting specific plants that require less water, sourcing drought-tolerant seeds, and adjusting traditional farming tactics such as shifting the timing of planting certain crops, Andrea Pucciarelli, manager of Bahrains Roots and Shoots Organic Farm, told The Daily Tribune.

"There are many types of plants that need more water than others.

At Roots and Shoots Farm, we aim to produce our own seeds that not only tolerate the weather and water but also produce more with less input," Andrea said.

When discussing the best ways to irrigate crops in the Kingdom, she stated, "Though hydroponics is a good use, the wastewater is not reusable within the system because of the chemicals added to feed the plants, which is where aquaponics is the most eco-friendly method of growing crops. Dr. Jassim Haji, President of the International Artificial Intelligence Group, pointed out how AI can play a role in saving water, especially in places where water is scarce, like Bahrain.

He noted that "precision irrigation systems that use data from sensors and weather forecasts can determine when and where to water crops efficiently, which is crucial for conserving water.

Moreover, using AI models can help experts predict the quality and availability of underground water for irrigation based on historical groundwater levels, rainfall patterns, and soil data.

Dr. Jassim Haji highlighted that the main idea here is to use AI in a responsible way by working closely with farmers. Outlining the specific ways in which AI could improve agriculture in the Kingdom, he highlighted that precise forecasting could help in planning irrigation schedules and protecting crops from extreme conditions such as sandstorms and droughts.

"The goal is to make AI a helpful tool that supports farmers instead of replacing their knowledge," he said. Bahrain-based environmental advocate Kai Miethig concurred with this and cited the less fertile soil, the arid climate, and the anticipated water crisis by 2040 as reasons for using AI for sustainable agriculture in Bahrain.

"Since the usage of water for irrigation is widely required and not much natural rain occurs here, AI technology can help to improve the efficient use of this precious resource.

With the help of technology and AI, the moisture level of the soil could be continuously monitored and watered with the right amount provided rather than by humans excessively and at the incorrect times," he said. However, Andrea Pucciarelli voiced her opposition to using AI in Bahrains farming practices.

She explained that it would be challenging to use AI to support the agriculture sector as it relies on already existing intelligence, which is extremely scarce in Bahrain.

Further, she said, "In places like the United States or the United Kingdom, you can find information on how to farm in the zone you are in, including temperatures down to the city you are located, and they will tell you what and when to plant.

Andrea had attempted to use AI to run a hypothetical on what would be required to raise cattle in Bahrain, but it only provided her with incredibly general information, as it doesnt contain accurate information for this part of the world.

She did, however, suggest programmable techniques that adapt to weather; nonetheless, there are currently other instruments that can be utilised to assist with this. Dr. Jassim Haji also noted this, saying, "There is less historical data and experience to draw from, compared to more temperate regions, as our agricultural techniques tend to be specialised and challenging due to extreme weather conditions.

AI trained on generic data may lack the nuance needed for sustainable desert agriculture. It relies on data to improve over time, and the local data available can be less compared to other more fertile regions.

"Of course, every new technology has its pros and cons. But with proper planning and responsibility, I believe AI can make a real positive impact on sustainable agriculture in Bahrain. The key is taking a universal approach and working closely with local farmers, officials, and environmentalists," Dr. Jassim stated.
TDT | Manama

The Daily Tribune  www.newsofbahrain.com

The Centre for General Studies (CGS) at the Royal University for Women (RUW), in cooperation with the Embassy of the Republic of Korea, will commence offering Korean language courses in Semester I AY 2023-24.

The announcement comes after RUW has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Embassy of the Republic of Korea in the Kingdom of Bahrain to promote Korean language and culture in Bahrain.

The success led to placing the Korean language course as an elective course (Liberal Arts Requirement Course) offered by the Centre for General Studies. Students enrolled in the course will be introduced to the language and learn more about the fascinating culture.

Speaking about the importance of the upcoming Korean language course, Dr Humam Elagha, Director of the Centre for General Studies, stated: Students at RUW will have even more opportunities to broaden their global outlook.

Language learning is an essential component of a well-rounded education. By adding Korean language courses, we are not only meeting the demands of our students, but also preparing them to be active members of a globalized world.

CGS offers a variety of foreign languages to RUW students and to our community including Italian, French, German, and recently Korean and wide cultural offerings in these language areas.
Over 70% of the Worlds population live in countries that are below replacement fertility levels and this includes poor countries like India and Pakistan. 30% of the Worlds population is in countries that have declining populations and this includes China, Japan, South Korea, Italy and Spain.

Replacement fertility is 2.07 which means a women will have 2.07 children on average over her lifetime. This is simply that the average women in a population must have an average of one daughter who also has children in order to have a stable population. Lifespan below immortality mean that a population might stay closer to stable for longer with long lifespans but eventually not replacing mothers with daughters causes a collapse and if not reversed it will lead to extinction.

How severe are these issues? Japans population peaked in 2008 at over 128 million and is now about 122 million. Japan is on track to about 100 million people in 2050. Japans economy peaked in 1995 at $5.5 trillion and is now $4.4 trillion. In the same time the US economy tripled. This is because of the decline in the working age population and the average age increasing from 38 to 48 in Japan. Japans average age will increase to 55 by 2050.

Chinas population pyramid is terrible because of decades of the one child policy. China had a total fertility rate of 1.09 in 2022. Chinas population is headed from over 1.4 billion today to less than 1.1 billion in 2050 and the average age will go from 38 today to 50 by 2050.

The World economy lost $5-10 trillion from 1995 to 2023 from Japans demographic collapse. The World economy will lose $30 trillion from 2023 to 2050 from the population aging and collapse in major countries.

It gets tougher and tougher and more and more costly to try to reverse the population avalanche.

How much would it cost now to use all financial means and policy to get to back replacement levels in 2024 and onwards in Japan and China and the other countries?

There are some studies and estimates of the cost of pro-baby policies based upon pro-baby programs in Sweden, Japan and other countries.

In 2020, the total fertility rate in the USA 1.71 children per woman. Getting to replacement of 2.07, we would need a 21% increase in birth rates. To accomplish this, the would need the present value of child benefits would need to increase by somewhere between 52% and 400% of household income. For the median woman, this would mean providing a child benefit for the first 18 years of a childs life worth approximately $5,300 per year in addition to currently-provided benefits, with the range running from $2,800 more per year to $23,000 more per year. This would be $50k to 400k per extra child. In the USA, this would be to increase births from 3.6 million to 4.35 million. This would be 750,000 more babies per year. This would be constantly paying $4 billion per year and increasing to $72 billion per year by 2042 and then $150-200 billion per year in 2060. However, the actual amount might need to be four times more if women and families need more money to be willing to have babies.

In 2022, the total fertility rate in China is 1.09 children per woman. Getting to replacement of 2.07, we would need a 95% increase in birth rates. Instead of 9.5 million there would need to be 18.5 million. Chinas household income is about 20% of the USA. 9 million more babies per year at $1,100 per year for 18 years of benefits. This would be $10 billion per year and increasing by $10 billion per year. This would be $180 billion per year by 2042 and $400 billion per year in 2060. The actual amount might need to be four times more if women and families need more money to be willing to have babies.

Japans total fertility rate, the number of children a woman has in her lifetime, likely fell to about 1.2 in 2022, the lowest in 17 years. Getting to replacement of 2.07, we would need a 73% increase in birth rates. Instead of 800,000 babies per year there would need to be 1.38 million. Japans household income is about 50% of the USA. 580,000 more babies per year at $3,000 per year for every year of 18 years of benefits. This would be $1.75 billion per year and increasing by 1.75 billion per year each year. This would be $31 billion per year by 2042 and $80 billion per year in 2060. The actual amount might need to be four times more if women and families need more money to be willing to have babies.

Japan paying $200-300 billion from now to 2050 would be totally worth it for the economy to stabilize by around 2040. Instead of halving by 2050, the economy might only be 30% less. It would be a 5X to 10X return every year from GDP that was saved.

China would need to pay $500 billion to $1 trillion would be totally worth it for the economy to stabilize the working age population by around 2040. Instead of halving by 2050, the economy might only be 30% less. It would be a 5X to 10X return every year from GDP that was saved.

The traditional pro-baby policies used in Sweden would likely not be enough. Free egg freezing for all women and free invitro fertilization and support and subsidies for surrogate births will likely be needed.
The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has assumed office with no plans to re-invent the wheels in the aviation sector, thereby sticking to the aviation roadmap started by Hadi Sirka.

But, some aviation experts who spoke in separate interviews with our correspondent in Abuja, advised otherwise, particularly on issues bothering acquiring a national carrier, concessioning of airports, among others.

Prior to Keyamos appointment as Minister of Aviation and Aerospace development by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the aviation sector under the leadership of Hadi Sirika, experienced a litany of challenges that spawned internal wrangling of sorts, safety concerns, high operation costs, including aviation fuel, inadequate funding, lack of skilled manpower.

Others are: Union strike, Sustainability of Waiver on Aircrafts and Spares, Budgetary Constraints, Unemployment, Decaying/ageing infrastructure and obsolete equipment, poor and Intolerable condition of airport facilities and equipment, among others.

Of all these challenges besetting the Aviation sector, the national carrier, Nigeria Air, was one of the biggest controversial topics that raised the eyebrows of not just Nigerians, but the international community.

One major controversy surrounding Nigeria Air is the lack of transparency and clarity surrounding its operation. The government initially announced plans to partner with private investors, but there has been limited information provided on the identities of these investors and the specific financial arrangements. Critics argue that this lack of transparency raises questions about the airlines viability and accountability.

On several occasions, Mr Sirika assured Nigerians that the national airline would commence operation before the inauguration of a new administration on 29 May.

The former minister further said negotiations between the Ethiopian Airlines Group Consortium  which emerged as the highest bidders for Nigeria Air, and the Nigerian government were in progress and that the next step would be the Federal Executive Council approval of the Full Business Case.

In September last year, Mr Sirika announced at a press briefing in Abuja that Ethiopian Airlines emerged as a core investor in Nigeria Air with a 49 per cent shareholding. Many Nigerians were suspicious of the plan and opposed the use of limited public funds for the national carrier.

The decision to settle for Ethiopia Airlines was challenged in a suit filed by local airline operators who claimed they could manage Nigerian Air better than a foreign airline would. The operators asked the court to stop the deal with Ethiopian Airlines.

However, three days before leaving office, the former minister unveiled the airline at the ceremony, with a single aircraft belonging to Ethiopian Airlines which was repainted in Nigerias national colours. FEC had approved the acquisition of three aircraft.

The development further heightened concerns among Nigerians, as many took to social media to question the move and Mr Sirikas handling of the airlines proposed operation.

But, setting an agenda for the new Minister of Aviation and Aerospace development, the former military Commandant at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, Group Capt. John Ojikutu, recommended that efforts be directed towards strengthening existing flag carriers, rather than pursuing the previously proposed plan for launching a national airline.

He argued that such a shift in focus will be more beneficial for the overall growth and development of the aviation industry.

There should no longer be any consideration for National Carrier but Flag Carriers at least two for a start to operate on the neglected BASA Routes. One for Regional and Continental and the other Intercontinental. But each of the Flag Carriers must sell at least 30% of its shares to the public at the stock market or Nigeria Stock Exchange because the market in BASA for commercial exploitation is a Nigerian Commonwealth, he said.

He also called on the new minister to urgently concession Airports so as to get the government off the yearly financing of maintenance, among others.

Airports Concessions should go on urgently so as to get the government off the yearly budgeting for financing their periodic maintenance and developmental projects.

However, each international airport should go for concessions with at least four domestic airports. Secondly, only the non Aeronautical services for concessions and the Aeronautical services like the runways and Taxiways could be excised to NAMA and FAAN be made a Holding Company.

Thirdly, the Airport Security and its Defence Layers should remain our obligations to ICAO and the responsibility of the government. Government must set up a National Air Traffic Services to include the NAF in the management of the Airspace to be routinely monitoring the Airspace violence and to avoid the type of disconnection between the two in the multiple attacks in the US during September 9, 2001, he added.

Similarly, Aviation Round-Table Secretary-General, Olumide Ohunayo, said that the aviation industry is trying to recover from the previous administration, urging Keyamo not to hit the ground running but to be careful of possible landmines and booby traps in the aviation roadmap.

He said: He is coming at a time when the industry is trying to recover from the post traumatic experience we had with the previous Minister and we are trying to build a clean mind towards the new Minister but I pray that affliction dont arise the second time in the industry.

I will not join them using the word hit the ground running because he can not hit the ground running. He should hit the ground, and look back and look at the different booby traps from the roadmap ground that affects public interest and public investment.

As a lawyer, he should ask for all the documents, he should be able to look at it. From his background, being an activist in the past and being a lawyer and his SAN, he needs to look at almost all agreements that were signed in the last eight years on behalf of the federal government.

He needs to set up a legal team to look at it critically. He also needs to look at those that are there before them and also look at all the contentious concession agreements, they need to resolve that. It is when you do that that genuine investors will come on board, not those that will come based on the Ministers friendship.
Luong Thi Hai (R) at a police station in Bac Lieu Province in southern Vietnam. Photo courtesy of Bac Lieu police

Six people in the Mekong Delta's Bac Lieu Province have been accused of tricking 11 women and selling them to Chinese men as brides.

The police are set to charge Luong Thi Hai, 31, Pham Thi Tu, 61, and four others with trafficking people, trafficking people under 16, brokering illegal entry, and extortion.

The victims included girls under 16 and mentally ill people, authorities said.

In 2015 Hai traveled to China as a worker, got married and stayed back.

Realizing many Chinese men wanted Vietnamese wives, she decided to trick women and sell them there.

In 2018 she knew Tu and Huynh Mong Linh, 45, through a group that brokered marriages between Vietnamese women and foreign men online.

Together, they searched for women in difficult circumstances, with low literacy or who were divorced in the Mekong Delta and nearby regions to lure them to China.

They would persuade victims to take pictures of themselves and their personal IDs and pass them on to people at the border, who would take them to China through less traveled paths in Lang Son and Cao Bang provinces for VND40 million (US$1,660). Tu would fly the victims to Hanoi from Can Tho or HCMC and take them to the border.

Once in China, they would be taken to a hotel in Henan Province, where they would be kept under watch by Hai before being sold to local men.

Those who resist would be threatened and beaten by Hai's henchmen.

Chinese men would pay her VND200-400 million for a wife.

She would send VND140-160 million to Tu in Vietnam, and each would net VND80-100 million after expenses.

Tu would give the victims' families VND20-100 million.

After getting married, many victims would be abused and beaten by their husbands. If they wanted to return to Vietnam, the ring would force their family to return all the money they received and some on top to transport the victims back.

Authorities said that between 2019 and 2022 the ring had earned around VND1 billion.
Detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, has told the Federal Government that he will not beg for his release after being cleared by Justice Binta Nyako of a Federal High Court in Abuja.

This was contained in a letter dated August 25, 2023, and signed by Kanus lead counsel, Mike Ozekhome, SAN. The letter was made available to our correspondent late night on August 28, 2023.

Ozekhome had raised concern over the deplorable condition of Kanus detention facility in the custody of the Department of State Services.

The lawyer requested that the Chief Judge of the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory should appoint a Magistrate to inspect the detention centre.

According to Kanu, begging for his freedom at this point will be an insult to the memory of tye late Pa Mbazulike Amechi, who despite his age and ill health, repeatedly travelled from the South-East to Abuja, pleading with the Federal Government to honour his dying wish, which was treated with the greatest disdain and was also not honoured.

These were the high points of the discussion during the meeting between the IPOB leader and his lawyers and family, according to a statement issued by Kanus counsel, Ifeanyi Ejiofor titled, Update on our routine visit to our indefatigable client  Onyendu Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, at the Headquarters of the State Security Services, Abuja, where he is still being illegally and unconstitutionally detained in solitary confinement.

Ejiofor said, Onyendu Mazi Nnamdi Kanu used the opportunity offered by the visit to extend his heartfelt gratitude to all people of good conscience and groups calling for his release. He however, observed that many people may not have understood the peculiarity of his case, but proceeded to urge us to clarify that he has been effectively and validly discharged by the judgment of the Court of Appeal, delivered October 13 2022, which said judgment also prohibited his further trial and detention. Therefore, there is no charge pending against Onyendu Mazi Nnamdi Kanu before any court as of today.





Furthermore, Onyendu Mazi Nnamdi Kanu unequivocally stated that begging the Federal Government to release him at this point is an insult to the memory of late Pa Mbazulike Amaechi, who despite his age and ill health, repeatedly travelled from the South-East to Abuja, begging the Federal Government of Nigeria, to honour his dying wish, which request was treated with greatest disdain by the Federal Government, and was also not honoured.

Thus, Onyendu Mazi Nnamdi Kanu is of the firm view that he does not need to beg the FGN to release him. The Court of Appeal has already made a pronouncement in that regard and that pronouncement has remained sacrosanct till date.

Therefore, the call every person of goodwill should make in the circumstance of his continued illegal detention, is for the Supreme Court to set down a date for the expeditious hearing of the appeal filed by the Federal Government, as provided for in the Criminal Appeals Practice Directions of the Supreme Court.

We visited our indefatigable Client  Onyendu Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, today, the 28th day of August 2023, to brief him on the various intervening actions taken by the legal team ably led by Prof. Mike Ozekhome, SAN, to address pertinent concerns affecting his welfare and failure of the SSS to avail him of his medical records.

To this end, an application has been made to the Honourable Chief Judge of the Federal Capital Territory by our erudite Lead Counsel  Prof. Mike Ozekhome SAN, to appoint a Magistrate that will visit and inspect the SSS facility/cell where Mazi Nnamdi Kanu has been held in solitary confinement since June 2021 till date, in pursuance to the relevant provisions of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act, 2015.

Following the SSS refusal to avail Onyendu Mazi Nnamdi Kanu with his medical records, as directed by Hon. Justice Binta Nyako, in the judgment delivered on July 20 2023, our erudite lead counsel, Prof. Mike Ozekhome, SAN, was compelled by this brazen disregard to an order of Court by the SSS, to initiate a contempt proceeding against the State Security Service and her Director General, for this gross violation of positive Orders of Court.
The Chicago State University (CSU) has locked its official X account amid bombardment over the academic records of President Bola Tinubu.

The protect your posts feature on X allows users to conceal their contents from persons who are not followers.

CSUs decision comes on the heels of a barrage of criticisms from Nigerians over the non-release of Tinubus academic records.

Tinubus credentials show that he graduated from CSU in 1979 with a bachelors degree in business administration, accounting and management.

However, there have been allegations bordering on discrepancies with Tinubus certificate.

Recently, Atiku Abubakar, presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), approached a US court for the northern district of Illinois in Chicago, for an order compelling CSU to release the academic records of Tinubu.

The president, through his counsel, had filed a counter application opposing the request for the release of his academic records.

Responding to Atikus application, CSU said it will release Tinubus records if a US court grants the order.

Amid the legal disputes, many Nigerians took to social media platforms to accuse the US university of conniving with Tinubu to conceal the records.

See a few reactions below.

If Nigerians decide to call you out, youre certainly in trouble.



Chicago State University have locked their X account. pic.twitter.com/2hFRoUOFRp  Inibehe Effiong (@InibeheEffiong) August 28, 2023

CHICAGO STATE UNIVERSITY AS AN ACCOMPLICE TO FRAUD: Bola said he graduated from CSU in 1979. Suddenly, the 1979 yearbook has disappeared from the CSU website. This means CSU is concealing a fraud so that they can partake in eating "THE FORBIDEN FRUIT." Well, Fraud is Time bound pic.twitter.com/QIyd0YekRi  Mahdi Shehu (@shehu_mahdi) August 29, 2023

Chicago State University @ChicagoState has locked their Twitter account. They removed the 1979 yearbook from their archive. I wonder what they are hiding?



Nigerians are camping on their page.   NEFERTITI (@firstladyship) August 28, 2023

A glimpse of Chicago State University LinkedIn burning up @ChicagoState. We await their response. pic.twitter.com/2PcBOxA5Ip  Weyimi B. Lube  (@_weyimi) August 28, 2023

Nigerians don follow Chicago State University reach Facebook I hope they will use padlock  to lock Facebook the way they have locked their X account Nigerians are not joking. We must get to the root for Bola Tinubus certificate forgery. #AllEyesOnTheJudiciary pic.twitter.com/dEgdEt8aNg  Jaypee (@JaypeeGeneral) August 28, 2023

The Chicago State University is trying to hide something.



I would understand if a Nigerian University is acting this funny but not an American University.



What's in it for them?  Malachy Odo II (@MalachyOdo1) August 28, 2023
Daniel Bwala, an aide to the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP presidential candidate, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar in the 2023 general election, has urged President Bola Tinubu to appoint a former Minister of Aviation, Chief Femi Fani-Kayode as a minister.

In a post on X on Monday, Bwala called on the president to appoint FFK, noting that his experience as a former minister will impact positively his government.

He said, I call on President Tinubu to consider appointing Femi Fani Kayode as a minister of the republic.

Femi has worked hard enough like every other appointee; but aside from that, he being a pragmatic person with previous experience will impact PBATs government.

Bwala also stated hes confident Fani-Kayode will work far better than some ministers.

I have never spoken with FFK on this, as a matter of fact, we only met twice in this life, one before he joined APC and the second at SSS HQRs where he was attending fellowship at the time. BUT I KNOW FEMI WILL WORK far better than some who are on the Job right now.

Fani-Kayode was the Director of Special Media Projects & Operations & New Media for the Tinubu/Shettima Pres. Campaign Council in the 2023 general elections.

Recall that President Tinubu on Monday, August 21 swore in 45 ministers cleared by the Senate, as Nigerians were surprised to see notable names like Fani-Kayode, Faleke, Onanuga and many others, prominent for their immense contribution during the election campaign, missing on the list.




The Edo State Government has disbanded the media crew attached to the Office of the Deputy Governor, Philip Shaibu.





Governor Godwin Obaseki also directed Shaibu to henceforth request for media coverage of his activities from the Ministry of Communication and Orientation.





Obaseki stated this in a statement issued by the Commissioner for Information, Chris Osa Nehikhare on Monday.





This directive followed the unfortunate incident that happened during the colloquium held to mark the 60th anniversary of Midwest Referendum, where some journalists, who claimed to be the media crew of the Deputy Governor, attempted to force their way into the hall where the Governor and other dignitaries were already seated.





This act was against the accreditation protocol that had been established for the event coverage.





The orchestrated and stage-managed walkout and disruption is highly regrettable, he said.




Ogun State Government on Tuesday, said that the Prince Dapo Abiodun-led administration has often had to augment the funds allocated to local governments in the state from the Federation Account to enable them to meet their obligations.





The government, in its reaction to a letter credited to the Chairman of Ijebu East Local Government, Mr Wale Adedayo, alleging zero revenue allocation to local governments in the state since 2021, said it had never tampered with local government funds.





It wondered how adding to the funds allocated to the local councils to enable them to meet their obligations amounted to hijacking their funds.





It said that funds meant for local governments in the state are being handled by the constitutionally recognised Joint Account and Allocation Committee (JAAC).





In a statement signed by the Chief Press Secretary (CPS) to the state governor, Mr Lekan Adeniran, the government said that JAAC members ensure that the third tier of government gets the required allocations for optimal performance.





It noted that the latest meeting by the JAAC was held last week, and was widely reported in the media.





At the meeting, which was held at the Conference Hall, Obas Complex, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, over N5bn was shared among the 20 local government areas, out of which over N2 billion went into paying teachers.





Between May 2023 when the Governor was sworn in for the second term and July 2023, the JAAC shared among 20 local governments N4.531b, N4.444b and N4.497b respectively on first line charges and just last week N5.2b was shared among the local governments for the month of August the statement said.





The JAAC, according to the statement, comprises major stakeholders in local government administration, including the Chief Economic Adviser to the governor, Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Accountant General of the State, Permanent Secretary, Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, all 20 local government chairmen, one representative from each of the four Traditional Councils in the state, representative of SUBEB, NULGE, local govt pensioners, retired primary school teachers, Local Government Service Commission, Local Government Pension Commission and NUT.





It has the mandate to meet every month to ensure that allocations to local governments are discussed and properly presented for fund allocation.





At such meetings, the state government makes full disclosure of the receipt from the federation account.





First-line charges, including local government staff salaries and pensions; primary school teachers salaries and pensions; healthcare workers salaries and pensions and emoluments for traditional rulers are tabled for discussion and fund allocation at the JAAC meetings, the statement said.





The statement added that this same pattern has been followed since Prince Dapo Abiodun took over the leadership of the state in 2019.





Governor Abiodun, the statement said, recently directed the local governments to identify critical roads that required government attention in their domains, with some already commissioned.





In the same vein, many schools have been rehabilitated, while others are undergoing renovation.





In addition to these, the state government also disburse funds to all local governments for developmental projects periodically, the statement added.
Nuhu Ribadu, national security adviser (NSA), says Nigeria continues to lose 400,000 barrels of crude oil daily to criminals and economic saboteurs.

Ribadu said this after he led a presidential delegation to inspect the oil and gas facilities at Owaza in Abia and Odogwa in Etche LGA of Rivers on Saturday.

He added that the nations economy is badly infected as a result of oil criminals who are behind the reduced crude production in the country.

The NSA mentioned the environmental effects of artisanal refineries on host communities, adding that government infrastructures are also being vandalised.

Its unfortunate that few individuals would steal our common resources, and in the process cause unbelievable loss to both the nation, communities and the people, he said.

Nigeria has the capacity to produce 2 million barrels of crude daily, but we are currently producing less than 1.6 million barrels due to theft and vandalism of pipelines.

So, we are talking about 400,000 barrels of crude oil going to waste.

The value of 400,000 barrels of oil today is about 4 million dollars, and every day, we lose this amount because of this irresponsible behaviour.

If you multiply 4 million dollars by 365 days (one year), you will see that it is a lot of money running into billions of dollars.

Ribadu said the country is in desperate need of money as the naira continues to lose its value, hence the need for him to have in his company top security officers of the country, including Baduru Abubakar, minister of defence, Christopher Musa, chief of defence staff (CDS), Hassan Abubakar, chief of air staff (CAS), and Bello Matawalle, the minister of state for defence, amongst others.

Prior to Ribadus statement, in April, Timipre Sylva, former minister of state for petroleum resources, confirmed that the country loses 400,000 barrels of crude daily to oil theft.

In February, Yemi Osinbajo, the former vice-president, quoted the Nigerian Extractive Industry Transparency Initiative (NEITI), to have estimated the audited figure of oil theft and losses at 619.7 million barrels of crude oil daily.

And this is valued at $46 billion or N16.25 trillion, and all of these losses occurred between 2010 and 2020, he had said.

In addition, Nigeria lost about 4.2 billion litres of petroleum products from refineries, which were valued at over $1.4 billion at the rate of 140,000 barrels per day from 2009 to 2018.




Popular Nigerian comedian, Ayodeji Makun, widely known as AY, has revealed that the only belongings he had left with him were those he traveled with before the fire incident at his house.





It was reported that the comedians Lagos residence was gutted by fire early this month.





Complaining about his predicament in a post on X, formerly known as Twitter, AY expressed how he feels about losing all his valuables.





Sharing a video capturing the renovation of the house, he said: It feels weird to realize that the only shoes, jewelry and clothes I have right now are the ones I traveled with.





There is no such thing as going back to square one.
The Edo government says Godwin Obaseki, governor of the state, was not aware that Philip Shaibu, his deputy, was denied access to see him on Sunday.

A crisis almost erupted at the New Festival Hall of the Government House in Benin, the state capital, when an operative of the Department of State Services (DSS) prevented Shaibu from meeting with the governor.

Shaibu attended the thanksgiving church service to mark the 32nd anniversary of the creation of the state, and spotted the governor who sat with his wife.

The deputy governor tried to make his way to the governor but was denied access by the security operative as Obaseki looked on.

Reacting to the incident on Monday, Andrew Okungbowa, the governors chief press secretary, said Obaseki was not aware of the security actions.

Whatever happened at the church service was not at the behest of the governor, nor was he aware of what the security aides were doing, Okungbowa said.

In fact, the security aides were doing their job.

Besides, the governor was not aware that the deputy was coming to greet him.

The church is a public event, so the security aides had a duty to safeguard their principal.

Speaking after the event, Shaibu said his loyalty to the governor remains unshakeable.

The vow I have made with God is that I will continue to support Godwin Obaseki as the governor of Edo state from the beginning to the end, he said.

But that does not stop anything that has to do with ambition. Ambition is personal and it does not affect loyalty.




Governor Alex Otti has canvassed for the support of the people for the realisation of a new Abia State free of corruption and crime.





This is even as has warned traditional rulers in the state against giving awards to suspected criminals.





He made the call in Umuahia while launching the Abia State Orientation Agency as part of the events to celebrate the 32nd anniversary of the creation of the state.





He described corruption and unpatriotic behaviour as the reasons Abia remained underdeveloped many years after its creation but expressed the determination of his administration to rid the state of all forms of corrupt tendencies.





Otti warned traditional rulers and priests in the state against conferring chieftaincy titles on people of questionable character, as his administration would not tolerate such.





He further warned teachers against promoting examination malpractice, adding that giving and taking bribes would be tackled head-on.





He charged the members of the Abia State Orientation Agency to make the state a reference point for good things.
President Bola Tinubu on Monday presided over the first federal executive council (FEC) meeting of his administration at the State House in Abuja.

Tinubu had on August 21, inaugurated 45 ministers who had been screened and confirmed by the senate.

The president urged the cabinet members to work hard to revive the countrys economy because Nigeria is in a difficult time.

Vice-President Kashim Shettima; Femi Gbajabiamila, chief of staff to the president and George Akume, secretary to the government of the federation (SGF), were present at the FEC meeting .

Below are photos.








Chinese tourists walk in front of the skyline of buildings at Tsim Sha Tsui, in Hong Kong, China, May 2, 2023. Photo by Reuters

Travelers arriving in China will no longer need a pre-departure antigen test for Covid-19 from Aug. 30 as China seeks to revive its tourism industry, China's Foreign Ministry announced.

The move is considered an important milestone in China's post-pandemic reopening and aims to attract more international visitors, AP reported.

Before the pandemic, China welcomed more than 136 million visitors. Currently, the number of visitors is only 20% compared to 2019.

The requirement for antigen Covid-19 testing was applied by China in April, replacing the previous PCR test method. Antigen test results are only accepted within 48 hours.

In January, China ended quarantine requirements for its citizens from traveling abroad in an effort to reopen its economy after years of strict anti-pandemic policy.

China has traditionally been Vietnam's largest tourism partner. In 2019 some 5.8 million Chinese had visited the country, accounting for nearly a third of all international arrivals.

Since March 15, China allowed its citizens to go on outbound tours to Vietnam.




The police said its operatives arrested no fewer than 100 suspects during a gay wedding ceremony in Delta State.





In a tweet on Tuesday, it said the suspects will be paraded shortly.





It would be recalled that in January 2014, President Goodluck Jonathan enacted Nigerias anti-gay law, which stipulates a 14-year prison term for those convicted of having s_x with members of the same s_x.





The law was utilised for the first time in December 2019 with the arrest of 47 men by the police in a hotel in Lagos the previous year. The suspects were arraigned and accused of publicly displaying affection for members of the same s_x.





The accused all pleaded not guilty, and the court granted them bail. The case was eventually struck out due to a lack of diligent prosecution by the police.
The Kwara State Police Commissioner, Ebunoluwarotimi Adelesi, has declared one Salam Ayodeji, wanted for allegedly threatening Isese adherents in Ilorin Kwara State.





it was reported that Ayodeji stormed the shop of a female Isese adherent in Ilorin, to not only bully her but also threaten to wreak havoc should she not leave town in eight days.





Ayodeji, in the video shared on X, Sunday, was heard accosting the lady asking if women sell electronics before giving her an eight-day ultimatum to evacuate the building where she transacted business.





He said in Yoruba, Do women sell electronics? Ayodeji asked, to which his cohorts responded, We have never heard of such.





The cleric continued saying, We have told you what we want; leave the town. We do not allow Isese people in our town.





Recall the Muslim cleric in his rant on Sunday also claimed to have the backing of the police commissioner.





In a meeting with Ayodejis family, on Monday, Adelesi asked the family to produce the suspect latest Wednesday for the alleged offence of terrorism and defamation against the police.





The police boss also berated the family for what she described as the poor training of their son.





Is it because Tajudeens wife is from Osun State? Does that mean shes a traditionalist? Or are there no Muslims in Osun State, the enraged CP queried.





The commissioner who also spoke with the Alaran family, renters to the Isese adherents who were evicted per Ayodejis threats, berated them for obliging the suspect.





Ayodeji responding to the police commissioner said they had unsuccessfully tried to locate their son, whose phone line had remained unreachable for days now.





Tajudeen, husband to the Isese lady, who was bullied and threatened by Ayodeji and his cohorts, said the suspects family had asked for his forgiveness and he had given it.




A committee of the House of Representatives Committee has decried the inability of beneficiaries to repay the N16billion Urban Mass Transit Schemes loan facilitated through the Subsidy Reinvestment and Empowerment Programme (SURE-P) funds.





The ad hoc committee is investigating Failure of Federal Mass Transit Schemes in Nigeria since 1999.





Chairman of the Committee, Afam Ogene, in a statement on Monday, said most of the beneficiaries of the government intervention did not repay the loan.





It would be recalled that former President Goodluck Jonathan introduced the SURE-P scheme following the partial removal of the subsidy scheme.





A total of 1,179 vehicles were released to the beneficiaries under the scheme, with a repayment plan covering four years. However, according to TIB, many of the beneficiaries defaulted and didnt repay the loans.





For instance, records show that as of December 2015, only two of the beneficiaries, ABC Transport PLC and The Young Shall Grow Transport Limited, liquidated their loans. Most of the beneficiaries are yet to pay as stipulated in the contractual agreements signed between them and TIB, he said.





Mr Ogene noted that despite the failure of the last intervention, the Muhammadu Buharis administration attempted to introduce different transportation interventions.





He said the committee will investigate all the previous interventions in the transportation sector.




Babagana Zulum, the Governor of Borno State, has said no government can provide food to its entire communities.





The governor stated this while supervising the distribution of food items to 18,000 heads of households at Damboa Local Government Area on Monday.





Zulum noted that his government has identified and selected the most vulnerable citizens to be the beneficiaries of the subsidy removal palliatives to help cushion the effect of hardship in the state.





I want you to take note that it is never feasible for any government, be it the federal government, state or local government, to provide food items to its entire communities.





Following this, we have selected the most vulnerable persons across all local governments to help cushion the effect of hardship, Gwoza and Damboa in southern Borno are greatly affected by food shortage, and in Northern part, almost all the LGAs are experiencing food shortage apart from Kaga, Magumeri and Gubio, while in central, MMC and Jere have less of the hit, he said.
A mentally ill Jersey City man shot dead by police Sunday would still be alive if the city had implemented a 911 mental health crisis intervention program that the city council approved more than a year ago, elected officials and public safety advocates said Monday.

In the wake of George Floyds death at the hands of Minneapolis police officers in 2020, more than a dozen of the largest cities in the country  including New York City, Los Angeles and Houston  established non-police response teams to address mental health emergencies.
The Mets signed Daniel Palka to a minor league contract on Monday, according to a Syracuse Mets X, formerly known as Twitter post.

Palka was released by the Boston Red Sox organization on July 30. In 79 games with Triple-A Worcester, the 31-year-old first baseman slashed .233/.309/.410.

BUY METS TICKETS: STUBHUB, VIVID SEATS, TICKETMASTER

Palka returns to the Mets organization, where he played 109 games in Triple-A Syracuse in 2022. That season, he earned a reputation for his power-hitting. In 395 at-bats, he slashed .266/.344/.506 with a 26 home runs and 79 RBI.

The Arizona Diamondbacks drafted Palka in the third round of the 2013 MLB Draft. He spent two seasons with the organization before being traded to the Minnesota Twins. After two seasons with the Twins organization, he was picked up off waivers by the Chicago White Sox in 2017.

One season later, Palka got the call to MLB. In 2018, Palka played 124 games with the White Sox, slashing .240/.294/.484 with 27 home runs and 67 RBI. The following season, he played just 30 games with the big league club, hitting just .107 with an abysmal .372 OPS.

Palkas biggest struggles come in his lack of plate discipline. At the MLB level, he strikes out at 34.7 percent rate and walks just 7 percent of the time. He does provide a good amount of power, homering 5.4 percent of the time.

Hell likely remain in Triple-A Syracuse in his time with the Mets, but a callup isnt out of the question. Just dont expect him to stick around for too long.

MORE SPORTS

- Yankees pitcher gets advice from Mets legend Doc Gooden: Take a year off

- Yankees announcer Michael Kay gets some hurtful news

- Homesick ex-Mets star, a miserable flop after trade, has lost his job

Thank you for relying on us to provide the journalism you can trust. Please consider supporting us with a subscription.

Manuel Gomez may be reached at mgomez@njadvancemedia.com.
WASHINGTON (AP)  The blood thinner Eliquis and popular diabetes treatments including Jardiance are among the first drugs that will be targeted for price negotiations in an effort to cut Medicare costs.

President Joe Bidens administration on Tuesday released a list of 10 drugs for which the federal government will take a first-ever step: negotiating drug prices directly with the manufacturer.

They are:
Police officers were using boats Tuesday to continue to search for an alligator that remains on the loose six days after it was first spotted in the water near a Middlesex Borough park.

This is a very novel thing for New Jersey. We dont have alligators in the water. Were not Florida, Middlesex Borough Police Lt. Thomas Falk told NJ Advance Media.

Officers used drones on Monday in an unsuccessful attempt to locate the alligator, Falk said.

Police said there were several unconfirmed sightings Monday, including a report from a bystander who claimed that the alligator briefly surfaced on Lake Creighton in Middlesex Borough and attacked a duck.

An officer fired a single shot at the alligator on Saturday in the Ambrose Brook, but the reptile immediately submerged and police do not know if it was struck, Falk said.

Police closed Victor Crowell Park on Monday due to a surge in visitors looking for the alligator after the widely-reported sightings in the area.

We did have a significant amount of people in the park Sunday into Monday, Falk said.

Yellow police tape surrounds Victor Crowell Park in Middlesex Borough after an alligator sighting. Tuesday, August 29, 2023. Patti Sapone | NJ Advance Media

The alligator is estimated to be three to four feet in length. It was described by police on Monday as capable of inflicting serious or fatal injuries.

Lake Creighton is commonly known as the Duck Pond, police said, and the Ambrose Brook serves a conduit between the lake and the Raritan River.

Alligators are not native to New Jersey and it is not known how the reptile ended up in Middlesex Borough, officials said.

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Rob Jennings may be reached at rjennings@njadvancemedia.com.
A man accused of defrauding residents of a New Jersey retirement community out of more than $200,000 in a contracting scam has pleaded guilty, Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer said.

Robert Cohan, 36, of Lakehurst, pleaded guilty to theft by deception in the case, in which prosecutors said he scammed residents of the Pleasant Plains age-restricted community in Toms River as well as an elderly woman from Berkeley Township.

Authorities had accused Cohan of posing as the relative of someone who owns a contracting business and soliciting residents of the 55-and-up community to perform work on the exterior of their homes.

An investigation into Cohans work found that between February and May of 2022, he collected about $200,000 in fees from the residents, but performed little to no work on their homes, officials said.

He was arrested and charged with theft by deception on June 23, 2022, and released in accordance with New Jersey Bail Reform, authorities said.

He was charged with theft by deception a second time on Oct. 5, 2022 following the incident in Berkeley and was held in Ocean County Jail after the court revoked his previous release under bail reform, prosecutors said.

An investigation by the Berkeley Township Police found that Cohan used a fake identity to approach an elderly woman at a bank and solicited a small amount of money from her in exchange for work he would do on her home, officials said.

He then showed up at her house multiple times, soliciting more money and accompanying her to the bank, where she withdrew cash and took out cash advances. In total, the woman gave him $20,000, authorities said.

He also told the victim that a portion of the money would pay for his father-in-laws funeral, but detectives later found that the father-in-law was still alive, prosecutors said.

Cohans sentencing is scheduled for Oct. 27. The state is seeking an eight-year prison sentence and restitution of approximately $220,000, officials said.

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Nicolas Fernandes may be reached at nfernandes@njadvancemedia.com.
Given the media coverage, you could be forgiven for thinking that the next big election will pit Joe Biden against Donald Trump.

Not in New Jersey. Here we have a much more important election coming up this year.
Four people died in two unrelated car crashes in Somerset County on Friday and Sunday, authorities announced Monday afternoon.

The first crash happened shortly before 1:30 p.m. in Manville at the intersection of Main Street and Dukes Parkway East and when officers arrived, they began trying to revive two of the three drivers who were injured, according to a press release from the Somerset County Prosecutors Office.

A 75-year-old woman from Manville who was operating a 2022 Chevrolet Traverse was taken to an area hospital, where she later died, while a 52-year-old man from East Newark, who was driving a 2018 Mercedes Benz C300, was airlifted to an area trauma center, where he was later pronounced dead, the office said.

A third driver, operating a 2006 Honda Pilot, was also taken to a local hospital with minor injuries and was expected to recover, authorities said.

The Traverse was driving north on Main Street in the right lane when it went through a red traffic signal and hit the Mercedes that was traveling east on Dukes Parkway and into a shopping center on the north side of the road, investigators said. The impact caused the Mercedes to hit the Pilot, which was on its way out of the shopping center.

The circumstances and events that led to the deadly remain under investigation. The names of the drivers were not released by the prosecutors office.

The second incident was a single-vehicle crash that was reported on Sunday at 6:22 a.m. in Franklin Township on Somerset Street (Route 27) near Voorhees Avenue, officials said.

A 2007 Audi Q7 was driving south on Somerset Street when the it left the roadway and hit several trees, lamp posts and a utility pole before stopping, the office said. It was unclear what caused the driver to lose control of the car.

Four people were inside the Audi and two of its passengers  a 24-year-old Franklin Township man who was in the right rear passenger seat and a 20-year-old North Brunswick man who was in the left rear passenger seat  were killed, authorities said. The Franklin Township man was ejected from the car and was pronounced dead at the scene and the other man suffered fatal injuries and died at the scene as well.

The driver of the Audi was taken to a local hospital for treatment and was expected to recover and the front seat passenger refused medical attention, officials said. They did not release the identities of the drivers and passengers in this crash.

Anyone with information related to the fatal crashes was asked to contact the Somerset County Prosecutors Office at (908) 231-7100, the Manville Borough Police Department at (908) 722-0089, or the Franklin Township Police Department at (732) 873-5533.

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Chris Sheldon may be reached at csheldon@njadvancemedia.com.
Students and faculty at two private schools in Sussex County were ordered to shelter in place Tuesday morning after a vehicle crashed while being chased by police, authorities said.

Sparta police attempted to stop a speeding Mercedes in the area of Demarest Road but the driver fled at a high rate of speed, according to police.

The vehicle was located a short distance away after it crashed near a business in the 100 block of Demarest Road, police said.

The driver and passengers got out of the vehicle after the crash and fled, according to police.

After a search by local officers, New Jersey State Police and a Sussex County Sherrifs K9, several suspects were arrested, police said.

Out of an abundance of caution two private schools in the area were put into a shelter in place, police said in a statement without identifying the schools.

Police advised the public to avoid the area while the investigation continues.

Anthony G. Attrino may be reached at tattrino@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @TonyAttrino. Find NJ.com on Facebook.
The summer is ending with not one hurricane, but two, as Idalia strengthened from a tropical storm to officially achieve hurricane status Tuesday.

Hurricane Idalia will hit Florida as a Category 3 storm on Wednesday, forecasters said. A major hurricane is one that packs maximum sustained winds of Category 3 or higher, at least 111 mph, according to AccuWeather.

Hurricane Franklin has also continued to intensify into a Category 4 hurricane out in the Atlantic Ocean, far out to sea. Although the storm is not expected to make landfall, its impact will be felt on the East Coast, forecasters said.

Rough surf and strong rip currents are expected to impact New Jersey beaches, especially on Tuesday and Wednesday, according to AccuWeather.

There is a high risk for the development of dangerous rip currents for the New Jersey and Delaware beaches, according to the National Weather Service in Mount Holly.

New Jersey can expect building swells and dangerous rip currents along the coast as distant Hurricane Franklin continues. (Photo credit AccuWeather.com)

The waves and rough surf generated by Hurricane Franklin could worsen coastal flooding, which is expected to occur at times of high tide around the full Super Blue Moon in the middle of this week.

Small craft advisory conditions are also likely in New Jersey through Saturday.

As of Tuesday morning, Idalia has achieved status as a Category 1 hurricane with sustained winds of 80 mph, according to forecasters.

There is an extreme risk for a portion of Florida in the region that includes the Gulf coasts of the panhandle and the peninsula. This area will be most at risk for life-threatening storm surge flooding, damaging winds and torrential rain as Hurricane Idalia approaches on Wednesday morning, according to AccuWeather.

Idalia became a hurricane Tuesday morning and is expected to strengthen into a Category 3 storm before it makes landfall Wednesday on Florida's Gulf Coast.

Hurricane Idalia is less of a threat to New Jersey than Hurricane Franklin, but forecasters said theres still a chance later in the week for gusty winds, heavy rains and coastal flooding.

Idalia should then move out to sea Thursday night through Friday, keeping any significant land impact from the storm to the south. New Jersey can expect winds gusting up to 30 mph on Thursday near Cape May, according to the National Weather Service.

The weather will be comfortable by late-August standards on Thursday with highs in the mid to upper 70s.

Current weather radar

Thank you for relying on us to provide the local weather news you can trust. Please consider supporting NJ.com with a subscription.

NJ Advance Media staff writers Tony Attrino and Len Melisurgo contributed to this report.

Jackie Roman may be reached at jroman@njadvancemedia.com.
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Watertown, NY (13601)

Today

Light rain early...then remaining cloudy with showers in the afternoon. High 42F. Winds NW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 90%..

Tonight

Mostly cloudy early, then clearing overnight. Low around 30F. Winds light and variable.
At the recent UN Security Council briefing on the DPRK and Nonproliferation, U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Linda Thomas-Greenfield excoriated Russia and the PRC for refusing to condemn the DPRKs latest attempt to launch a satellite into space using ballistic missile technology. The August 23 launch, though a failure, was another violation of UN Security Council resolutions and another threat to the DRPKs neighbors and the world, Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield said.

The vast majority of Council members have affirmed their opposition to the DPRKs unlawful actions and have called for Council unity to address them, she said. This should be an issue that unifies us. We have all reaffirmed our commitment to the global nonproliferation regime time and time again. But since the beginning of 2022, this Council has failed to live up to its commitments because of China and Russias obstructionism.

The entire Security Council used to stand up and speak with one voice against the DPRKs unlawful actions, said Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield; but in July, Russian and Chinese officials traveled to Pyongyang for a celebration of the regimes ballistic missile advancements.

The DPRKs nuclear threat is growing, and Russia and China are not living up to their responsibility to maintain international peace and security. Instead, they are celebrating  celebrating  violations of Security Council resolutions and continuing to block Council action, she said.

Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield rejected the disingenuous claims of Russia and China that the United States is acting in a hostile manner toward the DPRK. She noted the U.S.-allied military exercises that have taken place this year are routine, lawful, and defensive in nature.

She also reiterated that the United States remains committed to diplomacy:

Publicly and privately, at senior levels, we have repeatedly urged the DPRK to engage in dialogue  We have made clear we have no preconditions for engagement and are prepared to discuss any topic of concern  but the DPRK has still not responded to our offers.

Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield urged her colleagues on the Security Council to collectively and unequivocally denounce the DPRKs unlawful behavior. Division only empowers the DPRK, she declared. So let us work together  once again to confront this pressing threat to international peace and security.
More than 12 years into the Syrian revolution, people continue to suffer the daily reality of airstrikes, surface-missile attacks, torture and detention, and the denial of humanitarian aid.

The Syrian people are ready for peace. In recent days, there have been peaceful protests in cities like Daraa and Al Suweida, where Syrians have called for political changes and for all parties to uphold UN Resolution 2254, which calls for a ceasefire and political settlement in Syria.

The Syrian conflict has had a devastating impact on Syrian women, many of whom are the sole breadwinners of their families, said U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Linda Thomas-Greenfield:

Pre-existing gender inequalities, discriminatory laws, and social injustices exacerbate the challenges that women face. We call on all parties to the conflict in Syria to end restrictions on women and grant equal access to education, legal rights, civil documentation, and property records.

Syrian children and displaced people also continue to suffer under the current conditions, said Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield:

Across the country, millions of children remain out of school, putting them at high risk of child labor, early and forced marriage. The bottom line is this: Until conditions improve, the safe and dignified return of the displaced will not be possible. Syrians will not return so long as they risk being drafted into the Syrian army, unjustly detained, tortured, and forcibly disappeared.

Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield called for all parties to the conflict to release those arbitrarily detained, to provide human rights organizations access to detention facilities and those within them, and to share information on the missing with families. The UN estimates that there are at least 155,000 missing and unjustly detained Syrians.

Russia continues to stymie political progress in Syria, said Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield. Moreover, the Assad regimes lack of action on broad political transition initiatives, as well as the dire, day-to-day issues facing the Syrian people, demonstrate the governments contempt for its people.

The United States will continue to promote accountability for the Assad regimes abuses, including by applying and enforcing sanctions against those who deserve them. U.S. sanctions will remain in place until there is concrete, measurable progress toward a political solution.

The Syrian people deserve our full support, said Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield. They deserve peace and security and justice. And we will continue to stand with them in their time of need.
I haven't talked to all the Black people in New Orleans, but I'm here to tell you that people are disappointed, shocked and stunned that New O
A Stand Up To Racism March will be taking place in Barnstaple on Saturday, September 2.

The march and rally have been called in response to 'hate filled' literature that the Britain First party has been distributing in Barnstaple in recent weeks, including leaflets being placed on cars parked in the Cattle Market car park.

The purpose of this march and rally is to show that there is unity among the population of North Devon on the issue of racism and fascism, including faith groups, political organisations and other community groups.

Stand Up To Racism North Devon's Dave Clinch said: "The event will be a celebratory rebuke to the Britain First party which is trying to sow division within our community. Placards and banners are welcome.

"Britain First targets Muslims. Barnstaple Town council includes two Muslim councillors. Many people from Muslim backgrounds live and work in North Devon.

"Britain First targets Refugees and Asylum Seekers with their hatred. For example many people seeking asylum are escaping war torn countries, who should be integrated into communities to find useful work, instead of waiting years for their cases to be heard. Families have been settled in North Devon.

"Britain First was set up by former members of the British National Party. Members of its leadership have convictions for hate crimes including religiously aggravated harassment after an attack on a Muslim owned cafe. Thomas Mair who murdered MP Jo Cox shouted 'Britain First' before stabbing her.

"Britain First wants to remove our rights to religious freedom, and to a broad based culturally diverse education. The march and rally have been called to show that the majority of people reject the ideas of this hate filled group."

The march and rally are supported by North Devon & Torridge TUC and National Education Union, Devon Division.
R&D World magazine announced the winners from their selection of finalists announced last week. The winners will be recognized at the organization's award ceremony November 16 in San Diego, California.

"ORNL strives to deliver technological solutions for the nation's toughest problems," said interim ORNL Director Jeff Smith. "This year's R&D 100 Awards are a reminder of how hard our scientists and engineers work to accomplish that feat."

Often referred to as "The Oscars of Innovation" and the "Nobel Prize of Engineering," the R&D 100 Awards has for the last 60 years honored science and technology research and development leading to new commercial products, technologies and materials that are available for sale or license. The winning technologies and their developers are the following:
Press Release

August 29, 2023 SENATE BILL NO. 2426 UNDER COMMITTEE REPORT NO. 107

Tatak Pinoy (Proudly Filipino) Act

Co-Sponsorship Speech | Sen. Joel Villanueva Mr. President, esteemed colleagues: It is my honor and privilege to co-sponsor Senate Bill No. 2426 under Committee Report No. 107 or the "Tatak Pinoy (Proudly Filipino) Act." We would like to thank and commend the sponsor, the hardworking Senator Sonny Angara, for pushing for this bill, which is one of the advocacies closest to his heart. This measure is also part of the Common Legislative Agenda of both Houses. In the 2023 World Competitiveness Ranking, the Philippines ranked 52nd out of 64 economies. The annual report assesses how countries provide an environment characterized by efficient infrastructures, institutions, and policies that encourage sustainable value creation by enterprises. Our ranking means that we still have much to improve on if we are to achieve global competitiveness. Kaya naman po buong-puso nating sinusuportahan ang pagsasabatas ng panukalang ito na naglalayong suportahan, palakasin, at pagyamanin ang produksyon ng mga produktong gawang Pilipino upang ang mga ito ay mas maging sopistikado, de-kalidad, at talagang namang world-class. Through this measure, Mr. President, a Tatak Pinoy strategy will be adopted, which is a six-year action plan on the expansion and diversification of productive capabilities of domestic enterprises to make Philippine products and services more globally competitive. This will provide a venue for government agencies and the private sector to work together to increase support for local producers. This measure will also help address Filipinos' preference for imported products and reduce our trade deficit which stands at US$3.9 billion in June 2023. Moreover, when enacted into law, this bill would help modernize our agriculture industry, harness our manufacturing sector, and increase their overall share to our total economy and job generation. Currently, only the services sector has a consistent contribution, accounting for 62.1% of our GDP and 58.2% of total employment, higher than both agriculture and industry combined. Ginoong Pangulo, lubos din pong matutulungan ng panukalang ito ang mga MSMEs na bumubuo ng 99.58% ng mga business enterprises at nakakalikha ng higit limang milyong trabaho para sa mga Pilipino o halos 65% ng total employment sa ating bansa.[1] The institutionalization of the various Tatak Pinoy initiatives will not only promote the country's brand and identity, but more importantly, will lift millions out of poverty, contributing to this administration's goal of 9% poverty rate by 2028, and create more jobs for the people, helping achieve the projected 4% to 5% unemployment rate by 2026. Mr. President, distinguished colleagues especially to our dear sponsor. I cannot help but react on the sponsorship speech of our dear colleague. When I heard about this statement made by our Department of Migrant Workers Director Francisco Aguilar. I'm a bit concerned at Nawala lang po si Secretary Toots Ople parang nakalimutan na nila yung nakalagay sa batas na ating ipinasa, pinaghirapan Mr. President, dito mismo sa bulwagang ito. I know for a fact and the sponsor is right that this measure will complement Section 17 of RA 11641. I'd like to put this on record and I hope that the secretariat will also give a copy of the same RA that created the DMW to remind our workers in the department that we have discussed so much about the topic of full reintegration program. If you recall, Mr. President, this representation met the tech guy of Universal Studios in Singapore and he was asking 'how can we help our country and our people when they come back to the Philippines?'. Ilang beses din pong inilabas ni Senator Frank Drilon itong mga hinaing ng ating mga OFWs na inilagay po natin mismo sa batas na ito. Yung mga OFWs na gustong bumalik sa atin o mga Migrant Workers na nandun sa ibang bans ana pwedeng i-tap ng UP o ng mga malalaking mga university para magturo sa kanilang unibersidad. Mr. President, just to put on record, ito pong RA 11641, yung full cycle national reintegration program. This means Mr. President that professional Filipinos who have worked abroad and returned to the country should not go through the hoops in finding employment since the Department of Migrant Workers should be implementing their seamless reintegration. Let me remind our friends from DMW of your job. The said program will cover the different dimensions of support needed by our OFWs. Again, let me point out in closing section 17 of RA 11641 - full cycle reintegration program. It says here: " The Department shall develop and implement a full cycle and comprehensive national reintegration program for both documented and undocumented OFWs which shall be embedded in all stages of migration for work beginning from pre-deployment, on sight during employment and upon return, whether voluntary or involuntary. The reintegration program shall cover the different dimensions of support needed by the OFWs such as economic, social, psychosocial, gender responsive and cultural including skills certification and recognition of equivalency or effective employment services and shall ensure contribution to national development through investments and transfer of technology from skilled or professional OFWs." Again, Mr. President, it is written in this measure that the reintegration program shall include promoting access to social protection instruments and financial services and reintegration of survivors of VAW and trafficking-in-persons. For this purpose, the NRCO shall serve as the lead office of the department and shall coordinate all OFW training program and services of the TESDA, DTI, DA, DOLE, DOST and other local government units among others. Muli, maraming salamat po sa ating sponsor, Senator Sonny Angara na may sarili din pong "tatak" ang de-kalidad at 'di matatawarang serbisyo publiko - Alagang Angara! Makakaasa po kayo sa ating buong suporta para sa pagsasabatas ng panukalang ito. Thank you, Mr. President, dear colleagues. May God bless us all. ______________________ [1] DTI. 2021 MSME Statistics. Available at https://www.dti.gov.ph/resources/msme-statistics/. Accessed on 07 March 2023.
Solstice, a leading provider of accessible community solar, is proud to announce that they are enrolling residents through the Housing Authority of Cook County (HACC) . This collaboration will bring affordable solar energy options to low- to moderate-income households across the 108 communities within the Housing Authority's jurisdiction. With over 2,100 income-based housing units and rental assistance services for 13,000 families, the Housing Authority of Cook County is the second largest public housing authority in Illinois . Solstice will provide bilingual community solar education and enrollment events to residents, enabling them to access clean, renewable energy at reduced costs.

Community solar farms aim to address the energy burden faced by low- to moderate-income households, providing an opportunity for these communities to benefit from the environmental and economic advantages of solar power without having to own a home or report their credit score.

"Today marks a significant step towards a cleaner and more equitable Cook County," said Toni Preckwinkle, President of the Cook County Board of Commissioners. "The collaboration between Solstice and The Housing Authority of Cook County to expand renewable energy access is a testament to the positive change that can be achieved when organizations come together with a shared mission. By providing affordable solar energy options to low- to moderate-income households, we are not only reducing energy burdens but also contributing to a more sustainable future."

To further the mission of this collaboration the duo have set a goal of enrolling a minimum of 150 residents in the community solar program. Solstice will be coordinating with the Housing Authority of Cook County to host enrollment days where participants can receive additional help signing up. These events will provide personalized assistance and guidance to ensure that residents can easily access the benefits of community solar.

The Housing Authority of Cook County is one of the many government agencies that Solstice has worked with this year. Nandia Black, Mayor of the Village of Kildeer told us "I'm thrilled to promote the incredible opportunity for Kildeer residents to save money, promote resilient energy built here in Illinois, and support the Village through Solstice community solar."

As part of its commitment to supporting the local community, Solstice will contribute $50 to the Friends of the Forest Preserve for every resident who enrolls in the community solar program. This contribution will help fund environmental conservation and recreational initiatives in the area, further enhancing the positive impact of renewable energy in the region.

Sarah Gyurina, Partnership Development Associate at Solstice, added, "This collaboration aligns with our mission to democratize renewable energy access and create a more equitable energy landscape. We believe that everyone should have the opportunity to benefit from solar power, regardless of income level. By working together with the Housing Authority of Cook County, we can make a meaningful difference in the lives of thousands of families, and that's not a task we take lightly."

The joint enrollment effort from Solstice and the Housing Authority of Cook County demonstrates a shared commitment to social and environmental responsibility. By leveraging community solar, the organizations aim to reduce carbon emissions, lower electricity costs, and empower low- to moderate-income communities to actively participate in the clean energy transition.

Successful Solstice partners in Illinois have already seen the benefits, lauding efforts to make clean energy affordable. "It's so important for people to see that they can make a difference and that one organization, and even one person, can stir powerful change." said Jillian Gonzalez, Senior Vice President at El Valor, "We're grateful for the positive impact that signing up for community solar has had on us and those who rely on us, and we can't wait to see the benefits grow year after year."

HACC residents can attend an enrollment day or visit solstice.us/cookcounty to sign up and benefit from this program.

For more information about Solstice and its initiatives, please visit https://solstice.us/.

About Solstice Power Technologies

Solstice Power Technologies is a leading U.S. customer acquisition and management service provider in community solar. Originally based in Cambridge, MA, Solstice was founded in 2016 by women of color co-founders who believe every community can be powered by renewable energy. Solstice is dedicated to bringing affordable solar power to the 77% of American households that cannot support a rooftop system. Community solar offers a solution, enabling residents to support local clean energy at no upfront cost and save money on their electric bill every year. Solstice offers customer solutions for the community solar industry - enrolling households and local organizations in shared projects, creating financing innovations that expand access to underserved communities (the EnergyScore), and providing a frictionless subscriber management software platform for projects. For more information, visit https://solstice.us.

About The Housing Authority of Cook County

The Housing Authority of Cook County is the second largest public housing authority in Illinois. Established in 1946, the Housing Authority of Cook County is a municipal corporation whose jurisdiction spans 108 communities. We believe that when residents have access to affordable housing, economic opportunity and a suitable living environment free from discrimination, people thrive. http://www.thehacc.org

Media Contacts

Mary Jackson

Solstice Power Technologies LLC.

press@solstice.us

Marcus King

Housing Authority of Cook County

mking@thehacc.org
ATLANTAFormer Trump White House chief of staff Mark Meadows told federal court in Atlanta that because his involvement in the disputed presidential election in Georgia was related to his job as a White House official his case should be tried in federal court.

The Aug. 28 hearing is being closely watched because this is the first time that substantive arguments have been made in court in any of the four criminal cases that have been brought against former President Donald Trump and his fellow defendants this year.

Some liken the hearing today to a mini-trial for President Trump and his co-defendants and speculate that the treatment Mr. Meadows receives in federal court will be a bellwether for how the various Trump-related prosecutions will proceed.

Mr. Meadows was testifying in a bid to have Georgia racketeering charges pending against him that are related to President Trumps efforts to contest the states 2020 election heard in federal court, as opposed to state court in Fulton County where they originated.

The testimony took place before federal Judge Steve C. Jones of the Northern District of Georgia, who was appointed in 2011 by President Barack Obama.

President Trump, Mr. Meadows, and 17 co-defendants were indicted by a state grand jury in Fulton County on Aug. 14 over the former chief executives challenge to the election.

Prosecutors have focused on what was said in a Jan. 2, 2021, telephone conversation between President Trump and Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger in which they discussed, among other things, the vote count in the state and what options the two officials had available to them. Prosecutors say President Trump and others unlawfully attempted to interfere in the electoral process, an accusation he adamantly denies.

Charges against the cohort of defendants range from violating Georgias Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) Act, soliciting the violation of an oath by a public officer, conspiracy to commit forgery in the first degree, and conspiracy to commit filing of false documents.

Mr. Meadows himself is charged with one count of violating the Georgia RICO Act and one count of solicitation of violation of oath by a public officer.

The legal language in the indictment (pdf) specifically alleges that on Jan. 2, 2021, Mr. Meadows unlawfully solicited, requested, and importuned  Raffensperger, a public officer, to engage in conduct constituting the felony offense of Violation of Oath by Public Officer, O.C.G.A. l6-10-1, by unlawfully altering, unlawfully adjusting, and otherwise unlawfully influencing the certified returns for presidential electors for the November 3, 2020, presidential election in Georgia.

Mr. Meadows filed a notice of removal in federal court in Atlanta on Aug. 15. On Aug. 18, he filed a motion asking the court to dismiss the state charges, arguing he is immune from state prosecution under the U.S. Constitutions Supremacy Clause, which elevates federal law over state law.

In other words, Mr. Meadows is arguing that he cannot be prosecuted in state court because whatever he did, it was done in his official capacity as a federal officer, and he has federal defenses available to him.

Under federal law, cases filed in state court can be removed, or transferred, to a federal district court that has jurisdiction over the same geographic area. A defendant files a notice of removal in federal court, which has the effect of transferring the case to federal court on a provisional basis. The defendant also notifies the state court and the other parties. A hearing follows in federal court, and the judge rules on whether to keep the case in federal court. If removal is denied, the case is remanded back to state court.

The case can remain in federal court only if that court would have had subject matter jurisdiction to begin with. One of the commonly used reasons for removing a case is that it implicates the U.S. Constitution or a federal statute. If the case remains in federal court, then it will be tried in that forum according to the laws of the state.

Part of the Job

The attorney for Mr. Meadows was George J. Terwilliger III, who was U.S. Deputy Attorney General from November 1991 to January 1993, serving briefly as acting attorney general near the end of that period.

Mr. Terwilliger said during the hearing that the case should be heard in federal court because everything Mr. Meadows did was under color of his official duties as chief of staff for the president of the United States.

In his direct testimony, Mr. Meadows said he worked very long hours in his job and that there was overlap between his official White House duties and monitoring what was happening in the election. He attended meetings either as a principal or as an observer responsible for reporting back to the president and taking notes so he could follow up on specific matters. President Trumps campaign and election-related issues came up, he said.

Mr. Meadows said that he served as the busy presidents gatekeeper and that one of his key functions was to manage his bosss time and to call meetings to a close.

Some campaign developments were related to his job because they involve federal policy and it was his responsibility to be aware of the potential impact on federal policy, he testified.

Mr. Meadows said he often didnt know why the president wanted something, like, for example, a telephone number, but it was part of his job to obtain that information.

U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) prosecutor Anna Cross cross-examined Mr. Meadows at length, suggesting repeatedly that the things he did on the job were not actually federal matters.

Mr. Meadows pushed back and provided examples. He said his visit to Cobb County, in which he took time off from his family Christmas gathering, was to observe the recount process there in his official capacity. Related discussions with Mr. Raffensperger were also carried out in his official capacity, he said.

The federal government and the president of the United States have an interest in knowing that elections are free and fair and being properly administered, he said. He repeated the statement later in the cross-examination.

Ms. Cross said that three of President Trumps attorneys were present on the call with Mr. Raffensperger and that they were not federal employees.

Mr. Meadows said he was not certain if the lawyers worked for President Trump personally, for his campaign, or the federal government.

Ms. Cross pressed the witness on the particulars of the call and on other events in which Mr. Meadows participated, questioning whether they were legitimately related to federal government business.

Mr. Meadows said not everything he did regarding Cobb County was requested by President Trumphe looked into these things to be situationally aware and to be able to anticipate any questions the president might have, which was part of his job.

He said that at one point, he was being barraged with information after Election Day on election irregularities and that it was part of his job to make sure that information the DOJ needed got to it, and that information the Trump campaign needed got to it.

Mr. Meadows compared himself to the telephone operator on the long-running 1960s sitcom, The Andy Griffith Show. He said it was his responsibility to plug the right cord into the right receiver.

Ms. Cross asked him if he believed that the widespread allegations of fraud were valid or invalid. Mr. Meadows replied that he didnt have enough information to answer that question.

Mr. Meadows discussed the allegation that he sent a text message asking if Fulton Countys signature verification procedure could be sped up and whether the Trump campaign could pay for the process. He said that generally such things are not paid for with taxpayer dollars.

Mr. Meadows said there was a presidential interest in making sure you have an accurate and fair election. All of us as Americans want to make sure our vote counts, that its a free and fair election.

He said there were other issues that would have a federal nexus, but the judge cut him off, saying he didnt need to elaborate.

The president of the United States often makes recommendations on legislation that comes up on elections, that they be safe and secure, he said.

An event referred to as Act 19 in the indictment was discussed.

It was a reference to a December 2020 meeting with White House staffer John McEntee in which President Trump and Mr. Meadows allegedly asked for a memorandum outlining a strategy for disrupting and delaying the joint session of Congress on January 6, 2021. The strategy involved having Vice President Mike Pence count only half of the electoral votes from certain states and then return the remaining electoral votes to state legislatures, in the words of the indictment.

Mr. Meadows said he didnt remember this act and would have been surprised if he had been involved in it because it was the kind of thing that would have gone to White House counsel, and Mr. McEntee, who dealt with personnel matters, was not a lawyer

Me asking John Entee for this kind of a memo did not happen, Mr. Meadows said.

Mr. Meadows said it was part of his job to deal with campaigns because they wanted to use up so much of the presidents time. As a gatekeeper he had to negotiate with them about how much time the president would devote to them, he said.

Mr. Meadows was asked if he had ever been accused of violating the Hatch Act, a federal statute that limits certain political activities of federal employees.

After he had remarked that someone running for office in North Carolina was a good candidate, Mr. Meadows asked for an ethics ruling because someone said this violated the law. The ethics ruling stated he had not broken the law, but it was suggested he wouldnt have had a problem if he had worded his statement differently.

He also said that at one point in transit to a rally he was present on an airplane with the president and the issue of freeing a hostage being held in North Africa arose. This example showed in his view that the affairs of state and of national security did not stop during the campaign, so out of necessity he had to mix the two.

Trump Cases

Meanwhile, President Trump himself still has the option of filing a notice of removal in the Georgia case, although when he used the legal tactic in another case it was rejected.

He moved to have the falsifying business records charges pending against him in state court in New York removed to federal court, but federal Judge Alvin Hellerstein denied the motion on July 19. The judge wrote that hush money paid to an adult film star is not related to a Presidents official acts.

Separately, on Aug. 23, Judge Jones denied Mr. Meadowss emergency motion for immediate removal or to prohibit his arrest by Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis, as well as an emergency motion to dismiss the charges. After that, Mr. Meadows surrendered at the county courthouse and was processed on Aug. 24. He posted $100,000 bail by surety bond that day and was released.

All 19 co-defendants in the Georgia case will be arraigned separately on Sept. 6, Fulton County Superior Court Judge Scott McAfee ruled on Aug. 28.

The federal removal hearing was still in progress at press time.

From The Epoch Times
ELKO  A Montana man was arrested Sunday after allegedly attempting to pull a gun on police who were responding to a disturbance at a motel.

Elko Police Department officers were dispatched to the Travelodge Hotel at 1:50 a.m. on a report of a man causing a disturbance and attempting to get into a room without identifying himself to staff. They located the man in a hallway and identified him as Eladio Celis, 29 of Billings.

While officers were speaking with Celis, he began reaching towards the front of his waistband and a struggle ensued, stated the EPD. Celis attempted multiple times to pull a Glock pistol from his waistband. Officers were able to take control of the firearm and place Celis into custody.

He was booked into Elko County Jail on charges of assault with a deadly weapon on a first responder, resisting a public officer with a firearm, and possession of a dangerous weapon.

Bail was listed at $200,000.
PORTAGE  A driver seen swerving into the oncoming lanes of U.S. 20 before passing out at the intersection of the Willowcreek Road was nearly four times the legal limit for drinking alcohol and was believed to have been overdosing on drugs, Portage police said.

Another driver said he was eastbound on U.S. 20 around 9:34 p.m. Friday when the 2016 Jeep Patriot ahead began swerving and driving into the westbound lanes of the highway, police said.

The vehicle then reportedly came an abrupt stop in the middle of the intersection with Willowcreek Road and remained motionless for a few rotations of the traffic light.

Police were called and said they arrived to find the driver, Darian Gibbons, 42, of Michigan City, unresponsive, despite multiple efforts to wake him. The vehicle was in drive and his foot was on the brake.

Police spotted a partly full can of alcohol in the center console and were able to shut off the vehicle. Officers suspecting drugs were involved as well as alcohol, administered a dose of the opiate-neutralizing drug Narcan and Gibbons regained consciousness.

Man fled Portage crash that sent woman to hospital, police said The driver left at the scene, a 61-year-old Lake Station woman, complained of head pain and believed her left wrist was broken, police said.

Gibbons was taken to the hospital where it was discovered his blood-alcohol concentration was 0.288%, which far exceeds the legal of 0.08%, police said.

He was taken to the Porter County Jail and faces felony counts of operating a vehicle after forfeiting a license for life and operating while intoxicated with a prior conviction, records show. He also faces additional OWI charges, including one of endangering others.
MICHIGAN CITY  City firefighters battled a blaze Monday evening at the vacant Franklin Street Bar & Grill building, the department reported.

The department said it was dispatched to the site shortly after 6 p.m.

"The vacant building, previously Franklin Street Bar & Grill, had no flooring and a collapsed roof prior to the fire," the department said. "As a result, all firefighting was done from the outside of the structure."

County police release mugs of 24 busted on OWI charges in July LAPORTE  The LaPorte County Sheriff's Department released the mugshots of 24 men and woman arrested in July on the charge of operating while 

The first engine on the scene quickly knocked down the flames, firefighters said.

"All crews did a great job and no injuries were reported," the department said. "The cause of this fire is under investigation."

An off-duty firefighter reportedly captured photos of his peers in action as part of the department's post on the blaze.
PORTAGE  The Portage Township school board voted unanimously on Monday night to authorize litigation against social media companies, joining a growing number of school districts that are taking legal action against tech companies.

The school district will join the same class action lawsuit that Hanover schools voted to join in late July. The suit seeks compensation for damages suffered by the school districts and their students "as a result of the development, operation, and marketing of social media platforms."

Ken Elwood, attorney for Portage Township school board, told the board members approving the resolution was a "no brainer because it's free money".

The school district's superintendent, Amanda Alaniz, said if compensation was awarded from the lawsuit, it would be used to educate parents and kids of the harmful effects and appropriate uses of social media, as well as self regulation strategies.

The school districts will be represented by Kansas City-based law firm Wagstaff & Cartmell, which represented school districts across the country in a lawsuit against JUUL, and won a $235 million settlement against the electronic cigarette maker earlier this year. Portage Township schools was a plaintiff in the lawsuit.

Hundreds of school districts across the country have filed similar lawsuits against Big Tech. However, they may face a big challenge as social media companies have filed motions to dismiss these suits on the grounds the alleged harm caused on their sites is protected by Section 230, which protects internet companies from being held liable for content on their platforms.

GALLERY: The Times Photos of the Week
A Northwest Indiana-based startup is bringing to market innovations developed at Purdue University Northwest.

CBF Forensics, a forensic and education company, has launched a virtual reality program for forensic crime scene training and a new system to quantify the amount of THC in CBD and hemp products.

CBF Forensics Founder and President Charles Steele, who's also a lecturer of forensic science and the forensic science coordinator at Purdue University Northwest, said he aims to provide forensic science classrooms with the latest technology and offer law enforcement agencies affordable training.

Crime scene investigation training is inconsistent across the country; there is currently no national standard. Most initial training takes the form of mock crime scenes that are not governed by global standards or requirements, Steele said. The professional training that does exist is out of the economic range for most law enforcement agencies and is completely unavailable for most educational institutions. In addition, it is common for agencies to become entrenched in existing methods and not be aware of the latest technology. As a result, practitioners and new students often learn and use outdated methods.

The company rolled out the Crime by the F.I.V.E.S. program, which uses virtual reality to create training scenarios that simulate real-world situations they might face.

This first scenario also connects to in-person, real-world laboratory exercises that can be used to fill out a full semester course, Steele said. This educational approach allows the latest methods to be economically passed on to the general practitioner. Where possible, CBF Forensics will provide the latest support chemistry and devices to complement these scenarios.

The company plans to launch more forensics products for fingerprinting and blood detection applications.

The simulations follow real physics; if a user bumps into an item, it will move and possibly corrupt the crime scene. The visibility of evidence matches real-world optics, Steele said. Crime by the F.I.V.E.S. is just the first in what will be a series of crime scene training scenarios. The original program was built by CIVS, the Center for Innovation through Visualization and Simulation, at PNW. CIVS is a leader in the simulation field, and our relationship will allow CBF Forensics to continue to produce the highest quality products.

The company also will allow for testing of THC levels of CBD and hemp products, which are supposed to be THC-free but are unmonitored. The testing will ensure manufacturers and consumers don't face any unforeseen legal problems.

Innocently purchased hemp products may violate local laws, Steele said. Users of CBD products may face criminal charges for having THC in their blood and lose their jobs and military careers, etcetera. The manufacturers face civil liability for the harm done to their customers.

It will give smaller boutique manufacturers a way to test their products before putting them out on the market, potentially opening themselves up to legal liability.

QuanTHC provides an easy-to-use quantification test that does not require expensive analytical equipment or extensive chemical training, Steele said. It offers accurate quantification levels, which improves upon traditional tests that have only yes/no indicators.
Reinfection and long Covid

The chances you will get long Covid from a reinfection are fairly unpredictable  several experts interviewed for this story used the metaphor of Russian roulette. The milder your symptoms, the less likely you are to get long Covid, said Dr. Peter Chin-Hong, an infectious disease specialist at the University of California, San Francisco. But every time you get infected, no matter the severity, there is always a chance that you can develop longer-term symptoms.

A buzzy paper that was published in Nature Medicine last fall showed that people with two or more Covid infections were more than three times as likely to develop lung and heart issues, and over 1.5 times as likely to have a neurological disorder, including brain fog and strokes, than those who were only infected once. The study used data collected from U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs health care centers, which meant the participants tended to be older than the general population, and overwhelmingly male. But it showed, in pretty stark terms, that multiple infections are worse than one, said one of its authors, Dr. Ziyad Al-Aly, the chief of research and development at the V.A. St. Louis Healthcare System.

Dr. Sala said he frequently sees patients who were more or less fine after their first couple of infections wind up with long Covid in the wake of a third or fourth infection.

Just because you were lucky enough previously to not have more persistent symptoms, thats not a reassurance you wont the next time around, he said.

Still, its not a foregone conclusion that reinfection definitively raises the risk of long Covid, said Fikadu Tafesse, a virologist at Oregon Health & Science University. Reinfection is very contentious, he said. Literally depending on which paper you are reading, theres contradicting information regarding that. So I dont know what to believe.
At a hearing today in Washington, the judge overseeing the federal prosecution of Donald Trump on charges of conspiring to overturn the 2020 election said that the trial would start on March 4.

The trial date, which the former president and his lawyers had sought to delay, is likely to conflict with Trumps busy primary calendar  and the three other cases being prosecuted against him. Prosecutors in Georgia have also proposed beginning his trial on March 4, one day before Super Tuesday, when 15 states are scheduled to hold Republican primaries or caucuses. The Manhattan case is also scheduled for later that month. But Judge Tanya Chutkan dismissed any concerns about conflicts for the Washington trial.

Mr. Trump, like any defendant, will have to make the trial date work regardless of his schedule, she said, adding that there is a societal interest to a speedy trial.

The former presidents allies are still seeking to slow down the court proceedings by calling for the Georgia case to be moved to federal court. Mark Meadows, Trumps former chief of staff, testified today that he favored such a move because he believed that his actions around the 2020 election fell within the scope of his government job.
Even before the inferno that engulfed the Maui resort of Lahaina is fully contained, local officials and Hawaiis leading utility are at odds over a fundamental question: Did a single fire break out in the hills overlooking the town on the fateful day, or were there two?

The answer may be crucial to establishing the cause of the disaster and the liability for it.

The utility, Hawaiian Electric, acknowledged for the first time late Sunday that its power lines, buffeted by uncommonly high winds, fell and ignited a fire early on the morning of Aug. 8.

But the company said that by 6:40 a.m.  minutes after the first reports of a fire  the windstorm had caused its lines in the area to shut off automatically. And it noted that the fire was later reported 100 percent contained by the Maui County Department of Fire and Public Safety, which left the scene and later declared that the fire had been extinguished.

And Hawaiian Electric said its lines were carrying no current by the time flames erupted in midafternoon and quickly consumed much of downtown Lahaina and killed at least 115 people. The cause of that fire, the utility said, has not been determined.
Ms. Brevard was fired in September 2022, a few months after their relationship ended. She was one of four women who provided complaints about Mr. Parcells behavior to an independent investigator hired to look into accusations of sexual harassment at the organization, and the only one to lose her job. The other three women, her lawsuit said, are white. She withdrew her lawsuit in early July after negotiating a settlement with N.A.R.

Jennifer Braun, N.A.R.s senior events producer, filed an internal report to the human resources department about two encounters with Mr. Parcell. She told The Times that at a 2018 conference in Washington Mr. Parcell placed his hands down his own pants when he asked her to help him fix his shirt. On another occasion, he simulated ejaculation and told her that another colleague was masturbating in his room, she said.

In a separate accusation, an N.A.R. executive sent a memo to a senior vice president, saying she had become aware of two employees who had described an inappropriate invitation to spend the night at Mr. Parcells Utah home. He also sent them photographs of his crotch, which the executive shared with the senior vice president, according to the memo. The Times reviewed the photographs.

Mr. Parcell has denied all of the accusations.

Within the organization and its affiliates, 29 employees and former leaders told The Times that N.A.R. leaders did not adequately address a culture of bad behavior, despite complaints of sexual harassment, discrimination and retaliation by Mr. Parcell and other leaders.

Mr. Parcells resignation is a first step, said Mr. Haber, who has been organizing for change with others in the industry. The toxic environment that existed at N.A.R. was in place before Kenny Parcell was president, which means it will be that way after he leaves. So this isnt the end  this is the beginning of our work.
The News

Senator Chuck Schumer, Democrat of New York, plans to kick off a series of listening sessions next month on the regulation of artificial intelligence with Elon Musk of Tesla, Sundar Pichai of Google, Sam Altman of OpenAI and Satya Nadella of Microsoft.

Mr. Schumers office said on Monday that the tech leaders were set to convene in Washington on Sept. 13 for the first of several meetings for lawmakers to hear from A.I. experts. Jensen Huang, the chief executive of the chip maker Nvidia, and Eric Schmidt, the former chief executive of Google, will also attend.

The A.I. insight forums are closed-door listening sessions for lawmakers as they try to devise regulations for A.I. technologies. Mr. Schumer, the majority leader, said the sessions were intended to educate members of Congress on the risks posed by A.I. on jobs, the spread of disinformation and intellectual property theft. Lawmakers will also learn about opportunities created by the technology in the field of research on diseases, his office said.

The Sept. 13 meeting will also include members from civil rights and labor groups and the creative community. Axios reported earlier on the details of the meeting.
As it turned out, Vivek Ramaswamy only got one shot to lose himself in the music.

Marshall B. Mathers III, better known as the rapper Eminem, has told Mr. Ramaswamy, a Republican presidential candidate, that he is no longer to use Eminem music on the campaign trail, just weeks after Mr. Ramaswamy broke into an impromptu version of Eminems Lose Yourself at the Iowa State Fair.

The licensing arm of Mr. Matherss record company, BMI, informed the Ramaswamy campaign in a letter dated Wednesday and reprinted in The Daily Mail on Monday that BMI will consider any performance of the Eminem works by the Vivek 2024 campaign from this date forward to be a material breach of the firms licensing rules, for which BMI reserves all rights and remedies with respect thereto.

The Ramaswamy campaign didnt put up a fight. And it wasnt a regular thing, this Eminem rap-along. At the fair, Mr. Ramaswamy, the 38-year-old political newcomer, had told Gov. Kim Reynolds of Iowa that his favorite walk off song was Lose Yourself, and an enterprising sound technician blared it over the fairs loud speaker. The candidate picked up the mic and joined in.

Vivek just got on the stage and cut loose, his campaign spokeswoman, Tricia McLaughlin, said on Monday. To the American peoples chagrin, we will have to leave the rapping to the real Slim Shady, another of Mr. Matherss noms de plume.
Every year, volunteers in Clark and Washoe counties, as well as rural areas, gather before dawn and drive down every street of their communities, counting the number of people experiencing homelessness.

The point-in-time count is required by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development as part of annual data-gathering the federal government uses to determine how much funding each locality will receive to support services for unhoused populations.

This year, Clark County reported more than 6,500 people experiencing homelessness within the county, the highest amount since 2015 when the count reported the unhoused population reached more than 7,000.

In Washoe County, the point-in-time count revealed there were nearly 1,700 people experiencing homelessness in Northern Nevada. Last year, a little more than 1,600 people were counted.

Nevadas 15 rural counties also saw their largest numbers in the past decade, with slightly more than 400 people experiencing homelessness on the day the count took place.

Overall numbers of unhoused people across the state have increased, but service providers, researchers, scholars and government officials say the point-in-time count doesnt account for the complexities of homelessness and is a single annual snapshot within a community that changes every day.

However, the increases arrive as the states population is rising as a whole, meaning though there are more unhoused people in Nevada it could be a byproduct of people in general moving into the state. When compared to the total population of Clark County, the percentage of people experiencing homelessness has increased slightly but is still below what it was in 2015.

For me, its more important to look at the actual numbers that have gone up, said Kathi Thomas, the director for neighborhood services with the City of Las Vegas. And [that] the kinds of folks experiencing homelessness is changing.

In recent years, Thomas said she has observed an increase in families, people with disabilities and seniors seeking services.

Frederick Steinmann, director of the University Center for Economic Development at UNR, said there are multiple reasons for the steep increase in the unhoused population of rural Nevada including mines developing without communities having sufficient housing for the incoming workforce.

This is kind of when you become the victim of your own success, Steinmann said. A lot of people flock in and you cant build the housing fast enough.

More beds, fewer unsheltered

Though the number of people experiencing homelessness increased in Washoe County, the number of people living unsheltered  defined by HUD as living in an area not made for human habitation including abandoned buildings and on sidewalks  decreased by 21 percent.

Marie Baxter, the CEO of Catholic Charities of Northern Nevada, said the decrease in unsheltered populations is because the Cares Campus  the largest shelter in the area and managed by Washoe County  has significantly increased the amount of beds available.

The shelter  on Record Street held a couple 100 people, Baxter said. The Cares Campus can hold upwards of 600 to 700 people. Theres also just a lot more commitment across the community to try to find solutions for people experiencing homelessness.

Catrina Peters, the homeless services coordinator with the Washoe County Housing and Homeless Services team, added that the Cares Campus has added several emergency beds compared to previous years and some beds could have been excluded from the count before.

Local jurisdictions have also been adopting stricter policies when it comes to people living outdoors. Most recently, Sparks City Council adopted ordinances to the city municipal code that prohibits people from living in vehicles parked on public roadways, blocking public sidewalks, right of ways and streets as well as starting fires on public property without a permit.

The City of Sparks also expanded the exclusion of camping in the Truckee River Corridor to 1000 feet off the river. Previously the exclusion was set at 350 feet off the shore of the Truckee River. The city council also unanimously voted to reduce the definition of an oversized vehicle from 24 feet to 15 feet, read a statement from the Sparks city attorneys office released Aug. 15.

Other Northern Nevada jurisdictions have adopted stricter regulations about living on public lands in recent years.

My goal all along is how can we be a model for the West so we can compassionately lean into this problem, said Par Tolles, the chief fundraiser of the Cares Campus and CEO of Tolles Development. Get people services, make it very difficult for people to live on the streets, get them in safe environments, compassionately serve them and get them help and get them housing if they choose to come and help themselves.

Though there has been a decrease in unsheltered people, Peters said there will not be a decrease in homelessness until there is an increase in affordable housing units.

I think it really underscores the continued need for affordable housing, Peters said. This is not a problem were going to be able to solve without some substantial efforts to increase the number of affordable housing units for extremely low income populations in our community.

Understanding increases

COVID-19 eviction protections outlined in AB486, a bill passed during the 2021 legislative session, expired in June. As a result, tenants with pending or active rental assistance applications for at least 60 days found themselves without the bills safety net and were faced with physical removal from their homes.

Nicholas Barr, an assistant professor of social work at UNLV, called the expiration of eviction protections with no extension from state government akin to low hanging fruit that we let wither on the vine. Legal aid and housing advocates in Southern Nevada say this is the beginning of an eviction crisis.

Advocates also point to rents across the state being more than what is considered affordable  one third of a persons monthly income. Extra hidden fees are some of the reasons residents are facing eviction.

However, the total number of people facing evictions in Nevada is unclear. Courts do not track how many eviction cases they see and the City of Las Vegas said its service providers dont track the amount of people facing homelessness as a result of an eviction either.

Even if evictions were tracked, researchers find eviction records vary in accuracy and often over-represent marginalized groups.

Steinmann attributes a couple of reasons to the increase in homelessness overall in Northern Nevada. Though the end of the pandemic marked the end of rental assistance and eviction protections for some, it also marked the end of a shelter in place order with abusive partners or family members for others.

There are more people dealing with abusive situations than we thought, Steinmann said. Now all of a sudden, youve lifted a shelter in place order and the first thing that that person who is experiencing abuse may do is get out of that situation [but] theres nowhere for them to go.

Steinmann said particularly now, as the dust continues to settle post-pandemic, there is no simple cause for the increased rates of homelessness in Northern Nevada.

Very difficult to point to one or two things, he said. And part of it is just the ongoing disruption from the pandemic as we try to let the dust settle and figure out what the landscape actually looks like.

Other advocates blame a lack of housing policies at the state level.

Though Democratic legislators tried to extend protections and amend the states eviction process, Gov. Joe Lombardo vetoed the protection extensions proposed by Sen. James Ohrenschall (D-Las Vegas) as well as Assemblywoman Shondra Summers-Armstrongs (D-Las Vegas) bill that would have amended Nevadas unique summary eviction process.

Lombardo said in his veto message of Ohrenschalls SB335 that extended eviction protections would create onerous burdens in Nevadas residential renting market.

In the governors veto message of Summers-Armstrongs AB340, he said the bill would have imposed additional and unnecessary delays and costs on those seeking to remove individuals who unlawfully remain on their property after the termination of their lease.

Annette Magnus, who was the executive director of Battle Born Progress when Lombardo vetoed the bill, and others have laid the blame for the lack of reform, in part, on major donors in the real estate industry. Analyses of campaign finance data indicate that Nevadas real estate and development industry, a perennial powerhouse in campaign financing, contributed nearly $1.4 million to state lawmakers during the 2022 election cycle, marking the industry as the second-largest donor group to the Legislature.

Robert Bigelow, the owner of the Budget Suites of America hotel chain and outer space technology company Bigelow Aerospace, was Lombardos largest campaign donor, contributing over $30 million in total to the governors campaign. Bigelow was also a vocal critic of the federal eviction moratorium, calling it legalized theft because some tenants didnt pay rent during the pandemic, according to an article by the Associated Press.

Lombardos office has responded to the criticism saying that any accusation the governors decisions were based upon campaign contributions is simply ludicrous. Commentary implying otherwise is nothing more than a baseless attempt to distract from Governor Lombardos historic legislative achievements this session.

Taking the data with a grain of salt

Though economic scholars said the point-in-time count is valuable to observe year over year trends, experts advise to take the point-in-time count with a grain of salt.

Yeah, point-in-time is interesting, you know, but its just that one snapshot, said Mike Kazmierski, the former head of the Economic Development Authority of Western Nevada (EDAWN).

On top of it being one data point for an entire year, scholars, experts and service providers agree that the point-in-time count undercounts the actual number of people experiencing homelessness in a given community. They point to not everyone being willing to give out information about their situation during the count, methodology changes and time differences contributing to the inaccuracies in the point-in-time count.

Kazmierski said the Built for Zeros  a nationwide initiative to end homelessness that utilizes name-based data  counting system is more accurate than point-in-time, which notoriously undercounts people experiencing homelessness. He noted that Built for Zero displays the rates of homelessness Washoe County experiences day-to-day.

Washoe Countys July 2023 Built for Zero data indicates there were almost 1,900 people experiencing homelessness within the area. In January 2023, when the point-in-time count was conducted, the Built for Zero reflected a little more than 2,400 people experiencing homelessness in Washoe County, 700 more people than what the point in time count showed.

Though the data has its issues, Steinmann said the homeless census is a good way to inform overall policy decisions because it reflects the year over year changes of the unhoused population within a given community.

As the population changes, we want to make sure that policies and services reflect the actual needs of the population, Steinmann said. The major downside of a point-in-time count is the very nature of a point-in-time count. The same problem we run into with the United States Census Bureau  This is a country of over 300 approximately 350 million people. The population is very dynamic. Its not static.

Steinmann said not every person can be counted as some people are not willing to give information to volunteers surveying on the night of the point-in-time count. Though the point-in-time count is usually required to happen within the first 10 days of January, it is sometimes rescheduled if there is inclement weather or a COVID-19 outbreak.

Thomas said there are also changes in methodologies each year. Thomas said some years volunteers count a tent as 1.2 people, other years it is three people.

Some years were comparing apples to oranges, Thomas said. Some years were comparing apples to wheat bread. Im regularly concerned that we cant tell a complete and accurate story about homelessness in Southern Nevada.

Service providers and scholars agreed another problem with the point-in-time count is data sets dont reflect the complexity of being unhoused.

The complexities are not highlighted in the numbers. The solutions are not highlighted in the numbers, Thomas said. So overall, the numbers tell us that homelessness has increased. It doesnt tell us what we have an opportunity to do about that.
Breaking from her usual stump speech at a South Carolina town hall event on Monday, Nikki Haley paused to condemn a deadly weekend rampage in Jacksonville, Fla., that the authorities were investigating as a hate crime.

I am not going to lie to you, it takes me back to a dark place, Ms. Haley told an audience of roughly 1,000 people gathered in a corporate campus auditorium in Indian Land. There is no place for hate in America.

Ms. Haley was governor in 2015 when a white supremacist opened fire in an African American church in Charleston, S.C., and killed nine Black parishioners at a Bible study. Ms. Haley eventually called for the removal of the Confederate battle flag from the grounds of the South Carolina Capitol. She later described struggling with the beginning effects of post-traumatic stress disorder in response to the shooting, but she said that the victims families showed her what strength and grace looked like.

Ms. Haley also toed the Republican Party line on guns and racism, suggesting that such violence and mass shootings could be prevented if Americans improved mental health services, abided by gun laws and rejected division and hate in their everyday lives.
Tennessees House Republicans on Monday again silenced Representative Justin Jones, a Black Democrat who was expelled earlier this year in a gun control protest, after he was deemed to have violated new stringent rules of decorum.

Democrats left the House chamber in protest after Mr. Jones was barred from speaking on the floor for the remainder of the day, while chants of fascists and racists broke out in the gallery overhead.

Republicans ordered state troopers to clear the galleries. The decision forced the removal not only of the protesters but also of the parents of students who had survived a deadly school shooting and were keeping a quiet and emotional watch over the proceedings.

The uproar came when Speaker Cameron Sexton and chamber leaders decided that Mr. Jones, for the second time in the day, had breached the rules of the House by speaking out of turn. This time, Mr. Jones had suggested, during a debate about increasing the number of police officers in schools, that the states resources should be focused instead on mental health professionals and teacher pay  comments Mr. Sexton said were off-topic.
In comments made by video to Catholic youth in St. Petersburg, Russia, on Friday, Pope Francis praised 18th-century Russian rulers and the Great Russia they helped create  an empire that President Vladimir V. Putin has invoked in framing his invasion of Ukraine.

Never forget the legacy, Francis said. You are the heirs of Great Russia: Great Russia of saints, rulers, Great Russia of Peter I, Catherine II, that empire  great, enlightened, of great culture and great humanity.

The pope, who was finishing his address at the closing of a conference focused on the churchs young members in St. Petersburg, had shifted from his prepared remarks in Spanish to urge the audience in Italian to keep history in mind, according to Reuters. The Vatican released only the prepared remarks, but a clip circulated later by religious agencies showed him making the additional comments.

While for the past year Francis has been consistently supportive of peace and the Ukrainians he has called martyrs in the fight against Russias invading forces, his comments were quickly criticized in Ukraine and other countries near Russia that used to be part of the Soviet Union.
Ukraines military said on Monday that its forces had retaken the southern village of Robotyne, a tactical victory that underlines the immense challenge Kyivs counteroffensive faces in punching through deep and dense Russian defenses.

The capture of Robotyne would mean that Ukrainian forces have penetrated the first layer of minefields, tank traps, trenches and bunkers installed by the Russians since they invaded, military analysts say, potentially creating new strategic opportunities.

But the Ukrainian counteroffensive that began in early June has advanced only a few miles southward to reach Robotyne, in intense fighting with heavy casualties and equipment losses, and a similar distance on another axis to the east. The ultimate target of the thrust to Robotyne is the city of Melitopol, about 45 miles farther south, and more layers of Russian defenses lie in the way.

Robotyne has been liberated, said Hanna Malyar, a Ukrainian deputy defense minister. She told the Military Media Center, a platform for Ukraines Ministry of Defense, that Ukrainian forces were now advancing southeast toward the villages of Novoprokopivka and Ocheretuvato despite fierce resistance from Russian forces.
For reasons no one can quite decipher, the legal soap Suits, which aired on USA from 2011-2019, has become the show of the summer. While it was popular enough when it aired, Ive read more Suits articles in the last few weeks than during the shows entire run.

The show is a hit on Netflix, but if you are on your Suits journey right now, note that the ninth and final season is in fact not on Netflix  though it is on Peacock and Amazon.

Perhaps youre thinking, Wow, if only there were a spinoff to Suits, surely everyone would want in on that. Well, there is a spinoff to Suits, called Pearson, which follows Gina Torress character, Jessica Pearson, on her next legal endeavor. But in a perfect snapshot of the inane and hostile world of streaming, Pearson is not streaming on any platform. Make it make sense! (Update: Peacock has since added the series.)

But we come here not to gripe but to savor. I think Suits is a ton of fun for a while and then peters out big time; exactly where this decline begins is in the eye of the beholder, but for me Season 3 is on shaky ground and Season 4 starts a marked decline.
In the years and months since the U.S. withdrawals from Iraq and Afghanistan, public respect for our armed forces has been plummeting toward levels not seen since the end of the American war in Vietnam.

This new wave of skepticism is coming not just from the left, which has long been leery of the military, but also from the right. In a recent Gallup poll, public confidence in the military was still relatively high at 60 percent  much more than any other major public institution  but had declined sharply, especially among Republicans.

Conservatives are expressing concern about more than the collapse of U.S. nation-building efforts in the Middle East. Earlier this summer, the Republican senator Tommy Tuberville of Alabama denounced the Pentagons leaders as too woke. He is now holding up the promotion of hundreds of senior officers, which has left the Marine Corps without a commandant for the first time in 164 years, the Army without a chief and, as of this month, kept Adm. Lisa Franchetti from assuming the top position in the Navy. She would be the first woman in the Navys two-and-a-half-century existence to hold the post.

Tuberville and his ilk apparently believe that abortion access and drag shows at military bases have been a corrupting force on our servicemen and women, so it might be helpful to look back at some actual moments of moral and strategic failing in the ranks of the American armed forces to get a sense of perspective. GENERALS AND ADMIRALS, CRIMINALS AND CROOKS: Dishonorable Leadership in the U.S. Military (University of Notre Dame, 399 pp., $38) is subtler than its title indicates. It is actually a thoughtful study of the ways in which power corrupts.
3M, the chemical and manufacturing giant, said on Tuesday that it had reached a $6 billion settlement over claims that it sold defective combat earplugs to the U.S. military.

The lawsuits were brought by military service members and veterans who claimed that the earplugs sold by 3M had led to hearing damage and tinnitus, a ringing sensation in the ears. 3M said it would pay $5 billion in cash and $1 billion in stock over the next six years as part of the settlement.

The military used the earplugs, designed to protect service members from combat noise, from 2003 to 2015. Tinnitus rates among active-duty service members increased significantly from 2001 to 2015, according to a 2019 study.

3M did not admit liability under the settlement. The products at issue in this litigation are safe and effective when used properly, the company said in a statement.
Two years ago, as she walked through a hospital hallway in handcuffs and shackles to get tested for Covid, Sun Junli felt ashamed and defeated. At 45, she had come a long way. The poor village girl in northwestern China had become a successful businesswoman.

Then she was crushed.

In 2018, state-owned banks abruptly stopped lending to her business, a chain of cafe restaurants, and the pandemic destroyed her cash flow. By May 2021, Ms. Sun had lost her restaurants, and she was serving 16 days in detention for owing her employees about $28,000 in wages.

Weeks after her release, a court would seize her two-bedroom apartment in Xianyang in Shaanxi Province and her Toyota Camry because she was insolvent, and put her on a national blacklist. She can no longer book a hotel room or a plane ticket, or take out a loan.

Im surrounded by people like me, she said, counting dozens of friends in dire straits, entrepreneurs in fields like fashion, energy and furniture manufacturing. We all came from nothing and worked hard to create wealth, Ms. Sun said. We all lost everything and are deeply in debt.
Cryptocurrency prices jumped on Tuesday after the industrys largest fund manager scored a legal victory in its long-running attempt to make it easier for investors to put Bitcoin in their portfolios.

The U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit ruled that the Securities and Exchange Commission had improperly denied an application from the asset manager, Grayscale Investments, to create a Bitcoin exchange traded fund, calling the rejection arbitrary and capricious.

Grayscale is seeking to create the fund to give investors exposure to the cryptocurrency via traditional brokers and markets rather than digital asset exchanges.

The S.E.C. has already approved funds that bet on Bitcoin futures, or price fluctuations in the cryptocurrency, but it has denied numerous requests for an E.T.F. holding Bitcoin itself, arguing that the markets are subject to fraud and manipulation.
C.E.O.s urge Washington to help with asylum seekers

As New York Citys migrant crisis continues to escalate, with more than 100,000 arrivals from the southern U.S. border straining shelters, some of the citys top business leaders are intervening in a fight over whos responsible.

More than 120 executives  including Jamie Dimon of JPMorgan Chase, Larry Fink of BlackRock and Jane Fraser of Citigroup  sent a letter to President Biden and congressional leaders on Monday, urging Washington to fulfill New York States request for federal assistance. But recent communications by the Biden administration suggest that such calls wont be heeded.

The letter underscores the increasing urgency of the crisis, which has pitted Mayor Eric Adams against Gov. Kathy Hochul  and both Democrats against Biden. Adams has said the crisis could cost the city $12 billion over three years, while Hochul has spent $1.5 billion and deployed nearly 2,000 National Guard members so far.

The migrant crisis is a business issue. Of immediate concern is the financial strain that the wave of asylum seekers is putting on local governments: The situation is overwhelming the resources not only of the border region but of city and state governments across the nation, the letter reads.
President Xi Jinping has called for championing the joint right to development, said an expert from the United States, citing Xi's speech at the 15th BRICS Summit in Johannesburg.

"If that is protected within the international system, at the level of the Global South and the Global North and within UN multilateralism, I think we will all be more secure, more peaceful, and happier," said Sourabh Gupta, senior fellow at the Washington-based Institute for China-America Studies.

There are many civilizations and development paths in the world, and this is how the world should be, said Gupta, citing Xi. "No other country should stand in its way to try to stop that development," he said in an interview with China Daily.

Xi wants every country to have a right to development, which is jointly defended, said Gupta.

The secondary message attached to that, he said, was that "if the Global South gets together, comes together, and champions their right to development at the high table of global multilateralism with the Global North, maybe fairer bargains can be reached which could be beneficial to all parties concerned, both the Global North and the Global South".

Besides calling for deepening of business and financial cooperation to boost economic growth, Xi said: "We should expand political and security cooperation to uphold peace and tranquility".

According to Gupta, the message here is part of Xi's proposed Global Security Initiative and Global Development Initiative.

"Even from a security standpoint, every country has a right to its own security and the right to its own self-defense," Gupta said.

"Security is best achieved when all parties are thoughtful and not too self-regarding, but also regard other countries' security and rights. And this is best done under the banner of global multilateralism and not done in the context of small groups and exclusive blocs and small cliques which set their own rules and then consider that those rules are international norms which they are not," Gupta said.

President Xi's speech has highlighted the difference between UN-centered multilateralism and peace and security, and Western alliance-led peace and security, and how, sometimes, the latter could create these "us versus them formulations, which actually lead to greater division and conflict rather than peace and security".

On BRICS mechanism, Gupta said its most important contribution to the world is helping emerging markets and developing countries fight jointly for their right to development.

Comparatively, the West, the US typically, always dictates the model in which things must happen, he said. "And developing countries must then work within that model and try to develop themselves better."

Gupta cited the example of US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen being active on issues such as recapitalizing the multilateral development banks to tackle debt distress situations, and calling upon them to change investment strategies to better respond to global challenges.

However, she did not say anything in terms of expanding emerging market quotas at international organizations such as the International Monetary Fund, he said.

Landmark summit

Gupta said the BRICS summit was a "landmark" one. First, it has been almost four years since they met in person for the summit, after the COVID-19 pandemic.

Second, no BRICS summit has ever had "such a large attendance of developing country leaders". "It has been held in Africa, and the South African chair invited many African governments and a number of other governments."

And the most unique point, Gupta said, is the issue of expansion of BRICS has been handled very seriously. "What we are seeing now is a possibility of a number of other countries, a number of emerging markets and developing countries joining the BRICS."

Gupta pointed out that the West, or the Global North, should not see BRICS and its expansion as "a real challenge".

"It is about rebalancing the stakes at the negotiating table so that better bargains, which are viable and productive for both the North and the South, can be achieved," he said.
Shein, the ultrafast fashion retailer widely popular among Generation Z and millennial shoppers, faces demands from more than a dozen state attorneys general to answer questions about its business practices as the companys U.S. expansion continues.

The Republican attorneys general of 16 states sent a letter to Gary Gensler, the chair of the Securities and Exchange Commission, expressing concerns about the companys plans to file for an initial public offering in the United States, which many investors expect to happen soon. They urged the agency to order Shein, which was founded in China in 2012 and now has its headquarters in Singapore, to undergo an independent process, as a requirement of filing, to prove that it does not use forced labor.

The market for U.S. public listings has recently shown some signs of life, after more than a year of subdued activity in which companies shied away from volatile markets and slowing economic growth. Companies like the chip maker Arm Holdings and the food-delivery firm Instacart have recently filed to go public, signaling that the market could be becoming more favorable for listings. Shein has not commented on potential I.P.O. plans.

It is apparent that Shein is attempting to launch an I.P.O. before the end of this calendar year, the letter from the attorneys general said. An I.P.O. of this magnitude  involving a foreign-owned company that is facing credible concerns about its core business practices  cannot move forward on self-certification alone.
Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondos visit to China is putting a spotlight on the future of TikTok in the United States, where criticism of the app and its ties to Beijing reached a fever pitch this year.

Despite the intense pressure on the popular short-form video app, which is owned by the Chinese technology company ByteDance, efforts to ban or regulate it in Washington have not yet borne fruit. And even with all that scrutiny, Ms. Raimondo is not planning to discuss TikTok while in China, a glaring omission that reflects the impasse at which it has left the Biden administration.

The administration has been stymied by how to deal with TikTok even as intelligence officials have warned that it poses a national security threat. The app has been barred on government devices federally and in more than two dozen states, its chief executive was grilled before Congress in March and lawmakers have proposed legislation that would make it easier for the White House to ban tech companies owned by foreign adversaries like China.

But the White Houses options are limited. Ms. Raimondo memorably told Bloomberg News this year that if the administration banned TikTok, the politician in me thinks youre going to literally lose every voter under 35, forever. (TikTok claims 150 million users in the United States.)
For five weeks, almost everything seemed to go wrong for one commercial vessel waiting in the Danube River to load Ukrainian grain bound for Spain via the Black Sea.

First, Russian drones exploded mere miles away from where the vessel was anchored. Then, heavy congestion on the river led to weeks of delays, costing the vessels operator $8,000 a day in extra running costs. Finally, around midnight after its cargo of over 12,000 metric tons of grain had finally been loaded, Russian drones hit grain warehouses in an hourlong raid at the port the vessel had just left.

My crew, they were scared, said Captain Alan, who provided only his last name out of concern for his safety. Some small mistake, they can hit us, he said of the bombs.

For months, ships traversed the Black Sea and the Danube River without incident to load Ukrainian grain and deliver it around the world, even as Russias invasion of Ukraine intensified. Then in mid-July, when Russia withdrew from an agreement that allowed passage of those cargoes, everything changed.
This isnt about decoupling, she said. This is about maintaining our very consequential trade relationship, which is good for America, good for China and good for the world. An unstable economic relationship between China and the United States is bad for the world.

The official Xinhua news agency said late Tuesday that Premier Li had told Ms. Raimondo that economic relations between China and the United States were mutually beneficial. But he also warned that politicizing economic and trade issues and overstretching the concept of security will not only seriously affect bilateral relations and mutual trust, but also undermine the interests of enterprises and people of the two countries, and will have a disastrous impact on the global economy.

Ms. Raimondos visit is part of an effort by the Biden administration to stop a long deterioration in the U.S. relationship with China and restore communications. She is the fourth senior Biden administration official to travel to China in three months.

Her conversations with Chinese officials  which ranged from issues of national security to commercial opportunities for tourism  attested to both the economic potential of the trading relationship and its immense challenges.

Chinese officials have welcomed her visit as an opportunity to reduce tensions and air their concerns. Seated in a red-carpeted reception room on the second floor of the Great Hall, Mr. He said at the start of their meeting that he was ready to work with Ms. Raimondo, and hoped the United States would adopt rational and practical policies. She responded by laying out what the Biden administration sees as its priorities.
A New York Times investigation has found that America is depleting its invaluable reserves of groundwater at a dangerous rate.

The practice of overpumping water from vast aquifers is already having consequences nationwide. The majority of U.S. drinking-water systems rely on groundwater, as does farming, one of the nations most important industries.

Despite being essential to American life, the health of the countrys aquifers is hard to gauge. The Times spent months collecting data on tens of thousands of wells to conduct one of the most comprehensive examinations of groundwater depletion nationwide.

Here are five takeaways.

Aquifer water levels are falling nationwide. The danger is worse and more widespread than many people realize.

Some 45 percent of the wells the Times examined showed a statistically significant decline in water levels since 1980. Four in 10 sites reached record-low water levels during the past decade, and last year was the worst yet.
As Hurricane Idalia charges toward Florida, one factor that could amplify its effects on coastal communities is the unusually warm water in the Gulf of Mexico, which is partly the result of the sultry weather that has been smothering the South all summer.

Holy cow has it been hot down here, said Brian Dzwonkowski, a marine scientist at the University of South Alabama and the Dauphin Island Sea Lab. What does that translate to? Really hot water. And thats not a good combination for hurricane season.

Earths oceans have been hotter in recent months, by a considerable margin, than at any other time in modern history. In July, a buoy off the Florida coast reported a hot-tub-like reading of 101.1 degrees Fahrenheit, or more than 38 Celsius, a possible world record for sea surface temperatures.


Hurricane Idalia continued to build strength over the Gulf of Mexicos abnormally warm waters on Tuesday, taking aim at a vulnerable but sparsely populated portion of Floridas coastline known as the Big Bend, where the peninsula curves west into the Panhandle.

Follow our live coverage here.

Idalias path, which is expected to run parallel to Floridas western coast for much of Tuesday, makes it difficult to predict exactly where the storm would come ashore: A little wobble to the east or the west could move its center toward Tallahassee to the north or Tampa to the south.

My colleagues and I on The Timess Weather desk just redesigned our hurricane tracker with detailed information about the storms path and severity.

In todays newsletter, Im going to tell you how best to track a hurricanes progress, especially if youre in its path. I have nearly two decades of experience covering natural disasters like these, and there are a few things Ive learned:

Dont focus too much on the center of the storm: Many people look only at the cone of uncertainty  the familiar map that shows the likely path of the hurricanes eye. But people often misinterpret these maps, thinking theyll be safe if they live just outside the cone, for example. (See this 2019 article from Times Opinion for more.) Nearly a year ago, officials in Floridas Lee County saw they were on the edge of the cone of uncertainty for Hurricane Ian and delayed an order to evacuate, with devastating consequences.
A few months ago, a number of serious food journalists asked out loud whether fine dining was dying, or possibly already dead. This seemed odd to me. I keep close tabs on the restaurant scene, especially in New York City, and if expensive restaurants were undergoing a mass die-off, Id like to think I would notice. The truth, in fact, seemed to be the opposite. Fancy restaurants are opening here so quickly that there arent enough nights in the week for me to check them all out.

One thing I did see, though, is that the flavor of fine dining has changed a lot lately. Korean owners and chefs now run about a dozen of the citys most prominent high-end restaurants. Their rise, which has been remarkably swift, brings to an end the unquestioned supremacy of French cuisine that lasted for decades.

Today, Atomix, the most accomplished member of the Korean new wave, regularly performs on a level that invites comparisons to Jean-Georges, Le Bernardin and Daniel. And there really isnt a meaningful second tier in French dining in the city  at least not one that comes together with the combined finesse and power of Jua, Cote, Oiji Mi, Naro and a handful of other exceptional Korean restaurants.

Some of these I like more than others. There are one or two I havent reviewed in part because their tasting menus struck me as longer or more expensive than they needed to be (or both). But the best of them are among the most exciting places to eat in the city.
A Long Island judge has ordered former pediatrician Stuart Copperman to pay $22 million in compensatory and punitive damages to a 42-year-old woman who claimed he had sexually abused her from the time she was a toddler until she turned 18.

The ruling was the first to be handed down against Mr. Copperman, who has been accused of abusing scores of patients over decades. More than 100 other civil claims against him by former patients are pending.

Mr. Copperman did not mount a defense in the case and has no attorney of record. He did not respond to requests for comment.

The plaintiff, identified only as Jane Doe A.R. I, brought the lawsuit under the New York State Child Victims Act, which gives adult victims of child sexual abuse the right to sue their abusers until their 55th birthday. Prosecutors may file felony criminal charges on behalf of victims until their 28th birthday.
China has proposed eight tasks to ensure national food security, including strengthening the country's food security system and capacity-building, increasing support for agricultural protection, and accelerating the construction of a modern food industry and circulation system, according to a recent report from the State Council.

The report on work to ensure national food security was submitted to the fifth session of the Standing Committee of the 14th National People's Congress, China's top legislature, for deliberation on Monday.

The report said that efforts would be made to implement a strategy of sustainable farmland use and the innovative application of agricultural technology to increase farmland productivity.

In recent years, China's food production has been expanding steadily, with adequate market supply and generally stable operations. The country's ability to prevent and defuse major risks and challenges has been improving, and its level of food security has been raised significantly, according to the report.

China's annual grain output has topped 650 billion kg for eight consecutive years. Last year, the country's total grain output was 686.55 billion kg, and its per capita food supply was 486.1 kg, which was well above the internationally recognized food security line of 400 kg, according to the report.
It was story time. A pair of 2-year-olds sat on miniature chairs pulled up to a miniature table at Blythedale Childrens Hospital in Valhalla, N.Y., listening attentively.

We have so many animals that have boo-boos in our book, a brown-haired woman said in a singsong voice, holding up a book called All Better!

Feel better, doggy, one of the toddlers, a girl with seven braids, said as she placed a red Band-Aid sticker on the paw of a dog in the book.

The girl, Catherine Arias, was herself recovering from a very real and much more grievous injury. In January 2022, days away from her first birthday, she was caught in the crossfire of a shooting outside a pharmacy in the Bronx. The bullet penetrated the left side of her brain, leaving her with a traumatic injury and weakness on the right side of her body. More than a year and a half later, she still requires five days of therapy every week to improve her ability to eat, talk and move.
The school began commissioning posters from faculty members soon after it opened in 1947 as the Cartoonists & Illustrators School. The name change was announced in a poster in 1956 by the graphic designer George Tscherny, who later redesigned the schools logo.

Some posters reflected memorable moments in New York. In 2001, Milton Glaser, whose original I  NY logo was a spirit-booster in the aftermath of the citys fiscal crisis in the 1970s, did a poster for S.V.A. after the Sept. 11 attacks in 2001 that said I  NY More Than Ever.

The following year, Kevin OCallaghan, a department chairman at S.V.A., created a poster showing two potted shrubs. They had been trimmed to look like the twin towers and placed in front of a window in Dumbo, Brooklyn, that the original World Trade Center would have been seen from. At the top of the poster were the words Art Is  Healing.

From the beginning, the posters were meant to be eye-catching and thought-provoking. Di Tommaso said that the idea came from schools founder, Silas Rhodes, who had taken a trip to France in the 1940s or early 1950s and had seen posters in the Paris Metro. France has a longstanding tradition of posters, and he said Wow, Di Tommaso said, adding that Rhodes realized that posters were a way for a fledgling school  the Cartoonists & Illustrators school  to say we exist. Otherwise, hows anybody going to know?

At the time, he said, it was this tiny school, three dozen ex-G.I.s on the G.I. Bill who were learning cartooning to go out and get what were then called commercial art jobs.
After Cody Bohanan, 24, was locked up on a charge related to possession of drug paraphernalia in 2021, he told the staff at Butler County Jail in Ohio that he was withdrawing from opioids. His cellmates saw him vomiting blood. They implored guards to intervene.

But outside of having his vital signs purportedly checked a few times by paramedics, Mr. Bohanan received no medication or treatment for his withdrawal. He died five days into his jail sentence. Two months later, Diann Pink, a 58-year-old grandmother arrested on a charge of drug possession and driving under the influence, died in the same jail, from the same cause: complications of opioid withdrawal.

Recently, journalists have questioned whether policies that avoid jailing people like Ms. Pink and Mr. Bohanan for low-level drug crimes while continuing to penalize dealers  known as decriminalization  are working or are counterproductive. They point to recent rises in overdoses and disorder like public drug use in Oregon, which decriminalized small amounts of drug possession in 2021, and in Portugal, which decriminalized drug possession in 2001 and was the model for Oregons law.

People tend to assume that arrests for possession result in offers of treatment and that treatment is available for anyone in jail who wants help. Some claim that arrests help people with addictions hit bottom and choose to stop using, even without treatment. But as the Butler County cases illustrate, arrest and incarceration often block access to treatment rather than bolster it. A 2021 study by Columbia University researchers found that between 1987 and 2017, deaths from overdose, suicide and infectious disease climbed in concert with county-level incarceration rates.
First, dont think of Chinas misfortunes as our good fortune.

A China that can buy less from the world  whether in the form of handbags from Italy, copper from Zambia or grain from the United States  will inevitably constrain global growth. For the U.S. chip maker Qualcomm, 64 percent of its sales last year came from China; for the German automaker Mercedes-Benz, 37 percent of its retail car sales were made there. In 2021, Boeing forecast that China will account for about one in five of its wide-body plane deliveries over the next two decades. A truism that bears repeating is that there is only one economy: the global economy.

Second, dont assume the crisis will be short-lived.

Optimists think the crisis wont affect Western countries too badly because their exports to China account for a small share of their output. But the potential scale of the crisis is staggering. Real estate and its related sectors account for nearly 30 percent of Chinas gross domestic product, according to a 2020 paper by the economists Ken Rogoff and Yuanchen Yang. It is heavily financed by the countrys notoriously opaque $2.9 trillion trust industry, which also appears to be tottering. And even if China averts a full-scale crisis, long-term growth will be sharply constrained by a working-age population that will fall by nearly a quarter by 2050.
Theres also the possibility of a First Amendment defense. Typically, people are allowed to petition the government to do things, even unconstitutional things. That a court might, down the line, find those things to be unconstitutional seems like a dangerous basis to criminalize that petitioning.

Id understand bringing these charges to get at some obviously bad and immoral conduct by the president if there were nothing else available. But there are other, much stronger charges in the same indictment without the same constitutional concerns. Take the false statement counts: The very best case that Mr. Trump and his team could cite is United States v. Alvarez, where the Supreme Court held that there is a First Amendment right to lie about having received the Medal of Honor. But the Supreme Court also specifically said that this protection vanishes when lying for material gain, or to the government.

Rudy Giuliani told state legislators that election workers were passing around flash drives like vials of heroin and that thousands of dead and felonious voters participated, but he cant claim those statements have constitutional protection. All Mr. Giuliani can do is show the court what evidence supported those statements. There is none. And whats more, Mr. Giuliani recently admitted in a civil filing that his claims against two Fulton County election workers had been false. Despite claiming that it was for this litigation only, thats an admission.

Similarly, the forgery charges simply need to establish a conspiracy to create fake elector votes that could potentially be counted on Jan. 6. Its irrelevant whether the parties thought it was legal to do this, so long as they knew they were not, in fact, the duly appointed electors.

So it is an odd legal choice to drag a jury through weak, disputed counts in a monthslong trial when you could just focus on the counts that are hard to challenge and easy to explain, saving weeks in the process. The RICO count will already require dozens of witnesses and some complicated instructions, so tossing in these oath of office charges seems like a recipe for confusion and delay.
To the Editor:

Re Online Retailers Are Taking Advantage of a Public Resource: City Streets, by Christopher Caldwell (Opinion guest essay, Aug. 19):

The reason those Amazon trucks are double parked is that the parking spaces are already full of private cars.

Most private cars spend more than 95 percent of their life parked. (On average, Americans drive less than an hour per day.) This is an incredible waste of resources  the natural resources consumed to build the car and the public space devoted to storing the car when not in use.

For densely populated cities like New York, the delivery trucks are not the problem. The cars are.

Having a handful of delivery trucks, full of packages, wend their way through the neighborhood making deliveries is far more preferable than having everyone in the neighborhood driving their cars back and forth to the store. It reduces congestion and is far more fuel-efficient, and by extension creates a much smaller carbon footprint.

The delivery trucks will become even more efficient if they no longer have to sit in the congestion created by private cars and can more easily park directly in front of the delivery location.
I encountered another variation on this theme during my annual stay at a Jewish summer bungalow colony. Why me? Long story, but it started during the pandemic and became a habit, and I am one of many non-Jews there. Its called Rosmarins Cottages, and it is one of the last Reform Jewish colonies of a kind of which there were once dozens in the Catskills  immortalized in the film Dirty Dancing and, more recently, on the wondrous television series The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel.

At Rosmarins, I get an earful of what happens to English when it is spoken alongside yet another language, Yiddish. Of course, most people dont walk around the place thinking of themselves as speaking Yiddishisms. But if you listen closely, you can hear how Yiddish infiltrated the English of earlier American Jews, such that it now seasons the speech of people a generation or more removed from actually speaking Yiddish.

For example, at Rosmarins, one says that one will be eating by someones bungalow later, not at it, e.g., Were going to be by Lenores. Are you coming? This by is taken from the way Yiddish uses its word bay: I am at grandpa and grandmas house is Ikh bin bay zeyde un bobes hoyz. Just as Miami English is used by people who mostly speak English, at Rosmarins all but a sliver of the people using by this way do not speak Yiddish. Even the non-Jewish bungaleers (yes, thats the term) come to use it. I and another gentile resident were using it just the other day without a second thought.

A while ago another resident and I were trying to find the light switch when leaving a big barn of a building. The resident, a lifelong English speaker who does not speak Yiddish but had relatives who did, found the switch and said, Oh, I found where to close that light. That was modeled on Yiddish, in which one could put it the same way and say, makh tsi de likht.

Or, to go back in time a little, there was  of course  a 1950s Broadway musical about a Jewish bungalow colony. It was called Wish You Were Here and was a minor hit. The colonys social director introduced himself with a song, set to a klezmer-like tune, in one stanza of which he sang about how his parents and older relatives hated that he had decided to become a social director. He imitates them:

Oh, woe, woe, woe!

A social director! A social director!

Dont tell us our boy is a social director!

Let him be a loafer, let him be a bum.
I could trace all her zigs and zags since early 2016: her initially ardent opposition to Trumps candidacy, her speedy capitulation, her stint in his administration as the U.S. ambassador to the United Nations, and so on. But they were covered in an excellent essay in The Times by Stuart Stevens early this year, and a span of mere months, from December 2020 to April 2021, tells the saga of her signature spinelessness just as well.

That December, she sat down with the journalist Tim Alberta, then with Politico, for one of several interviews for an epic profile of her that he was writing. For a month Trump had been denying the results of the presidential election, spreading his conspiracy theories, undermining the peaceful transfer of power and doing profound damage to the country. And while Haley let Alberta know that she had the presidents ear and had called him in the middle of it all, she made equally clear that she hadnt felt a smidgen of responsibility to talk some sense and decency into him.

Here was Haley, someone with a reputation for speaking candidly to Trump, someone who had the courage as governor to remove the Confederate flag from her state capitol, admitting that she hadnt bothered to challenge him  even in private  on a deception that threatened the stability of American life, Alberta marveled. Why not?

Haley answered Alberta: I understand the president. I understand that genuinely, to his core, he believes he was wronged. For Haley, that absolved her of any patriotic duty and Trump of any blame for the havoc that he was wreaking. The guilty parties, she told Alberta, were the lawyers abetting his delusions. Astonishingly, she seemed not to grasp that she was abetting right alongside them.
On Feb. 27, an article claiming that the United States was behind the bombing of the Nord Stream underwater pipelines in the Baltic Sea was published on the Substack and Blogspot blogging platforms.

Within 24 hours, the article  and other versions of it  had been posted to more websites, including Reddit, Medium, Tumblr, Facebook and YouTube. Translations of the article in Greek, German, Russian, Italian and Turkish also began appearing online.

The posts were part of a Chinese influence campaign that stands out as the largest such operation to date, researchers at Meta said in a report on Tuesday. The effort, which the company said had started with Chinese law enforcement and was discovered in 2019, was aimed at advancing Chinas interests and discrediting its adversaries, such as the United States, Meta said.

In total, 7,704 Facebook accounts, 954 Facebook pages, 15 Facebook groups and 15 Instagram accounts tied to the Chinese campaign were removed by Meta, which owns Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp. Hundreds of other accounts on TikTok, X, LiveJournal and Blogspot also participated in the campaign, which researchers named Spamouflage, for the frequent posting of spamlike messages, according to Metas report.
In a rural slice of Californias Solano County, between the cities of the Bay Area and Sacramento, rumors have been swirling for years about the Flanneries, a mystery company buying up mostly undeveloped land.

At a shooting range in Birds Landing, an unincorporated community accessible by a two-lane highway or a gravel road through grassy foothills covered in wind turbines  many of them over 200 feet tall  an employee questioned why anyone would want to buy land in the quiet area.

Theres sheep farms, theres cattle ranches, and guys that are doing hay and safflower farming, said the employee, Ashley Morrill, 40. Thats what they do. Theres livestock, and things to feed the livestock.

Solano Countys rural roots are still front and center in an area where a company backed by tech industry billionaires has been buying up land to create what they imagine to be a city of the future. That company, Flannery Associates, has committed roughly $900 million to secure thousands of acres of farmland, court documents show.
Crops such as wheat, corn as well as sunflower seeds and melons stand on the cusp of harvest in Hetao Irrigation Area, a site located in north China's Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region that is inscribed on the list of World Heritage Irrigation Structures.

An Lingyi's maize field, spanning 1,000 mu (66.7 hectares), is commanding attention for its cutting-edge approach to pre-harvest preparations. The use of shallow-buried drip irrigation system has not only spared the farmer from the laborious tasks of irrigation and fertigation but also holds the promise of yielding abundant output.

"The technology saves about 40 percent of irrigation water and 40 percent of fertilizer while helping increase the per-mu yield by about 10 percent," An said.

The Linhe District in Inner Mongolia's Bayannur city is a major grain-producing area. Covering an irrigation area of approximately 2 million mu, it draws its water from the Yellow River.

This year, the district has vigorously promoted drip irrigation technology, with added support through the intelligent agricultural system integrated with China's homegrown BeiDou Navigation Satellite System (BDS) services.

The Hetao Irrigation Area, located in Bayannur, has been diverting water from the Yellow River for irrigate since the Qin Dynasty (221 B.C.-206 B.C.). The current irrigation area stands at 11.54 million mu.

The 2,200-year-old irrigation project, included in the World Heritage Irrigation Structures in 2019, uses gravity to transport the Yellow River water into fields.

The Yellow River, China's second-longest, stretches over 840 km in Inner Mongolia, home to several deserts. The Hetao section of the river is 333.5 km long, adjacent to the Ulan Buh Desert, Mu Us Desert and Kubuqi Desert.

The irrigation area collects about 4.6 billion cubic meters of water from the Yellow River every year, accounting for one-eighth of the total water diversion in the entire Yellow River basin.

As one of China's most important grain and oil production bases, this area has yielded over 3 billion kg of grain on average annually in recent years.

According to Wang Xiaojun, director of Bayannur's water resources bureau, conventional flood-inducing irrigation methods lack water efficiency.

While maintaining the utilization of existing irrigation channels, the drip irrigation network involves raising water pressure at pumping stations, alongside building water pipelines to channel water into the fields, effectively addressing both irrigation and fertigation needs, Wang said.

"Drip irrigation substantially enhances the efficiency of irrigation water and fertilizer utilization, and this technology holds the potential to play an important role in advancing water-saving agricultural practices and improving the overall agroecological environment," he said.

Bian Junfeng, a cadre of Heping Village in Bayannur, said that compared with traditional flood irrigation methods, drip irrigation is more water-efficient and can help increase the average per-mu income by approximately 500 yuan (about 68.4 U.S. dollars).

Currently, the drip irrigation network has been laid for nourishing 863,000 mu of fields in the Hetao Irrigation Area.
California began a bold experiment this year: paying people to stay sober.

With overdose deaths on the rise, the states Medicaid program recently became the first in the nation to begin offering financial rewards to drug users who abstain from using stimulants like cocaine and methamphetamine. The program is an innovative, science-backed effort with many supporters, but it has raised some eyebrows.

Its really a brave choice of California to try this against potential backlash and misunderstanding, said Catherine Teare, an associate director at the nonprofit California Health Care Foundation, noting that stimulant use is a particularly severe problem among the states growing homeless population. This isnt going to solve it, she said, but I think its well worth trying.

There arent any targeted medications to combat addiction to stimulants, as there are for opioids and alcohol, so stimulant addictions are among the hardest to treat. Thats why state officials are banking on this pilot program to fight cocaine and methamphetamine abuse.

Deaths from these kind of stimulants in California quadrupled from 2011 to 2019, according to an analysis by the California Health Care Foundation. Emergency department visits related to amphetamines rose nearly 50 percent in two years, from 2018 to 2020, the analysis found.
The authorities in Denver approved a $4.7 million settlement on Monday for more than 300 protesters who were detained for violating an emergency curfew during demonstrations over the killing of George Floyd in 2020, and later accused the police of using excessive force.

The settlement, approved by the Denver City Council, resolves a class-action lawsuit filed by protesters against the consolidated city and county of Denver, which denies any liability or wrongdoing.

The Denver demonstrations were part of unrest in cities across the United States and beyond over the May 2020 death of Mr. Floyd, a 46-year-old Black man, after a white police officer in Minneapolis held his knee on Mr. Floyds neck as he gasped for breath. The officer, Derek Chauvin, was later convicted of murder and sentenced to 22 and a half years in prison. Three other officers involved in Mr. Floyds death were each sentenced to several years in prison.

The settlement approved on Monday is the second major victory for protesters who have criticized the Denver Police Departments handling of the 2020 demonstrations. In a civil case last year, a jury in federal court in Colorado ordered the Denver authorities to pay $14 million in damages to 12 protesters after finding that police officers had used excessive force against them in 2020.
After making landfall early Wednesday in Floridas Big Bend region, Hurricane Idalia was expected to move quickly inland and threaten other parts of the Southeast, taking a path along the Atlantic coast late Wednesday and Thursday. Forecasters issued a hurricane warning for coastal communities in Georgia and South Carolina.

While Idalia should weaken after landfall, it is likely to still be a hurricane while moving across southern Georgia, and near the coast of Georgia or southern South Carolina late today, according to the National Hurricane Center. Strong winds will spread inland across parts of northern Florida and southern Georgia, forecasters said.

Idalia is reminiscent of last years Hurricane Ian, which made landfall in southwestern Florida before crossing the state and moving into the Atlantic, causing storm surge and strong winds from Central Florida to North Carolina.

Forecasters said on Tuesday that a growing swell from Hurricane Franklin in the mid-Atlantic, in addition to high tides, could lead to significant coastal flooding on Wednesday. Tides were expected to run high through next week because of a full moon on Aug. 31 and the lunar perigee on Aug. 30, forecasters in Charleston, S.C., said.
For much of the summer, Lake Okeechobee suffocates under toxic, blue-green algae blooms fed by fertilizer runoff from farms. The blooms recently subsided, but Hurricane Idalia could cause further cycles of growth and rot.

Thats because storms can send additional fertilizer runoff down the Kissimmee River and other waterways, stir up pollution from the lake bottom and kill aquatic vegetation  all of which encourage the growth of algae.

The blue-green blooms, also called cyanobacteria, can kill wildlife. For humans, long-term exposure  through skin contact, drinking water, eating contaminated food, or breathing airborne particles  can cause liver damage and neurological disease.

As of Tuesday morning, the water level in Lake Okeechobee was just over 15 feet above sea level, about a foot below where it could endanger the surrounding dike. If rain from Idalia threatens to raise the level to 16.5 feet, the United States Army Corps of Engineers will very likely release water through canals toward Fort Myers and Stuart.
The flames that ripped through Lahaina needed only a few hours to take nearly everything from Aina Kohler. Her house. Her surfing school and cafe. And her parents home, where she was raised.

Three weeks later, the flames are gone but they have continued to take, robbing Ms. Kohlers 12-year-old son  and hundreds of other children  of what was supposed to be the first few weeks of the school year.

The deadly fire on Aug. 8 destroyed King Kamehameha III Elementary School in Lahaina and forced all three of the other public schools in town to close until officials determine that the air and water are safe. As of Monday, nearly 60 percent of the 3,000 public school students in Lahaina, a historic town in West Maui, had not enrolled in another public school or signed up for remote classes, essentially vanishing from the school system.

Ms. Kohlers son, Kimo Varona, whose first day of sixth grade was supposed to be the day after the fire, still hasnt returned to class weeks later as his family stays at a West Maui house that was offered as a refuge by a family they had never met. Kimo, whose education was already upended by Covid-19 closures, longs for some sense of normalcy with his classmates.
During a recent town hall with the Congressional Black Caucus, Vice President Kamala Harris offered a gut check to the 200 people who had gathered to take stock of the state of civil rights in America.

We are looking at a full-on attack on our hard-fought, hard-won freedoms, Ms. Harris told the crowd, which erupted in applause as she spoke. So much is at stake, she said of the 2024 presidential election, including our very democracy.

In 2020, President Biden promised Black voters he would deliver a sweeping racial equity agenda that included a landmark federal voting rights bill, student loan relief, criminal justice reform and more. Three years later, with much of that agenda thwarted by Congress or the courts, the White House is looking for new ways to re-energize a crucial constituency that helped propel Mr. Biden to the presidency.

That means describing the stakes of the election in stark terms, as Ms. Harris did over the summer in Boston, arguing that the Republican Party is trying to reverse generations of racial progress in America. But Mr. Biden is also asking voters to judge him on a series of achievements that benefit Black Americans  but that are hardly the marquee promises from the early days of his administration.
President Biden hosted President Rodrigo Chaves of Costa Rica at the White House on Tuesday as their countries try to rein in a surge of migration in the Western Hemisphere.

The two leaders also discussed trade and efforts to crack down on organized crime.

What Ive found with you, Mr. President, is were united by the vision we share, Mr. Biden told Mr. Chaves in the Oval Office. A vision for future greater opportunity for freedom and equality and, quite frankly, dignity for all of our people.

Mr. Biden thanked Mr. Chaves, who was elected last year, for his leadership on migration challenges we face every single day.

The Biden administrations plan to stem illegal migration in the United States involves cracking down on asylum seekers at the U.S.-Mexico border while working with Central American nations, like Costa Rica, to develop ways for migrants to apply for protection closer to their home countries.
Mayor Francis X. Suarez of Miami dropped out of the race for the 2024 Republican presidential nomination on Tuesday, after failing to gain traction in a crowded field and falling short of the requirements to participate in the first Republican debate.

Throughout this process, I have met so many freedom-loving Americans who care deeply about our nation, her people and its future, Mr. Suarez posted on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter. It was a privilege to come so close to appearing onstage with the other candidates at last weeks first debate.

Mr. Suarez, 45, wrote in the posting on Tuesday that he was suspending his campaign for president. He had announced his run in June, joining an already-crowded cast of Republicans vying for the nomination, including a former vice president, a U.S. senator, several governors  and a former president whose dominance in polls has been steady throughout the race.

No one has ever ascended to the presidency directly from a mayoral office. As the sole Latino candidate  he is Cuban American  Mr. Suarez played up his ability to appeal to a diverse group of voters. He promoted a boilerplate G.O.P. platform in which he called to curb violent crime, suggested giving U.S. companies incentives to leave China and expressed support for a 15-week national abortion ban with exceptions.
And both chambers rejected calls from Democrats to address gun violence, the leading cause of death for children in the United States.

I think its good to remember that Tennessee is not just Nashville, Tennessee is not just Memphis, said State Representative Jeremy Faison, a member of the House Republican leadership. He added, Theres literally no one in my district asking me to do anything like what they asked.

Ultimately, after barely six days of work, the legislature sent Mr. Lee just a few policy bills, some of which codified existing policy in Tennessee, including measures that would require the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation to produce a comprehensive report on human trafficking, ensure faster updates to the states background check system and provide incentives for the safe storage of guns at home. They also approved a funding bill to shore up some mental health and security resources.

We should recognize the significance of this special session  we made progress in public safety, Mr. Lee told reporters. And we elevated a conversation about public safety that will continue into the future.

Lt. Gov. Randy McNally defended the session as a success, saying that these things take time and that more work could be done when the legislature returned in January.
Meshawn was never connected to the donor base, and so having her as the vice chair for a lot of us was a showstopper, said Dave Trott, a former Republican congressman from Michigan who retired in 2018 and is also a former donor to the state party. Because we just knew she would never be someone that would be rational in her approach to state party politics.

Ms. Maddock, who is no longer involved in the party, responded to Mr. Trott, saying she was not surprised at all that he takes no responsibility for disappointing Michigan voters or anyone.

The state party needs the wealthy RINOs who often fund it to come to terms with what the actual voters on the right want, Ms. Maddock said. Instead of constantly gaslighting the Republican base, the wealthy donors need to treat them with an ounce of respect for once.

As standard-bearers for the state party during the 2022 midterm cycle, Mr. DePerno, Ms. Karamo and Ms. Maddock all maintained the falsehoods about the 2020 election. In their campaigns, Mr. DePerno and Ms. Karamo placed extra emphasis on the 2020 election, often at the expense of other issues more central to voters.

They were resoundingly defeated. Republicans also lost control of both chambers of the State Legislature. Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, the Democratic incumbent, sailed to a landslide victory.
Party General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong (R) and Singaporean Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong (Photo: VNA)

During a Hanoi reception for the Singaporean leader, he highlighted the visit coincides with the 50th anniversary of bilateral diplomatic ties and the 10th anniversary of their strategic partnership.

Expressing delight at the development of bilateral relations, the leader affirmed attaching importance to the enhancement of ties with Singapore, a neighbouring nation that holds a pivotal position regionally and internationally and has extensive experience in various fields.

Lee, who is in Vietnam from August 27-29, stressed that bilateral ties have been growing robustly and expanded into various new areas, adding Singapore values the further strengthening of its relationship with Vietnam.

He informed the host of the outcomes of his talks with Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh and other Vietnamese leaders, and agreed with the Party leader's cooperation proposals, considering them crucial and strategic directions for bilateral ties in the near future.

The guest expressed his wish to strengthen coordination to contribute to peace, cooperation and development in the region and the world. He reaffirmed the shared stance on the maintenance of peace in the East Sea, respect of the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), the implementation of the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the East Sea (DOC), toward reaching an effective and substantial Code of Conduct in the East Sea (COC).

The two pledged to enhance the sharing of experience in improving the capacity and position of the ruling parties, including the party building, personnel training and human resources development for Vietnam, and to work together more effectively at global and regional forums, as well as intensify high-level meetings and exchanges among different sectors and levels./.
While a federal judge was fast-tracking the start of former President Donald J. Trumps election interference trial in Washington on Monday, the sprawling prosecution of Mr. Trump and 18 co-defendants by the district attorney in Fulton County, Ga., on similar state charges showed signs of slowing to a slog in Atlanta.

The two cases, stemming from the efforts of Mr. Trump and his allies to overturn the results of the 2020 election, rely on many of the same facts, documents and witnesses. But as Mondays court skirmishes demonstrated, the approaches of the two prosecutors in charge of the investigations  Jack Smith, the Justice Departments special counsel, and Fani T. Willis, the district attorney in Fulton County  could not be more different.

Mr. Smith took over the two federal Trump investigations with a promise to move rapidly in hopes of wrapping up legal proceedings before the 2024 election, and the indictment handed down against Mr. Trump on Aug. 1 included just four counts. While it referred to six unindicted co-conspirators, only Mr. Trump was charged.

By contrast, the indictment brought by Ms. Willis includes 41 counts against the former president and encompassed allegations against his long roster of co-defendants. The legal and logistical complexity of the Georgia case came more clearly into focus on Monday, when Mark Meadows, Mr. Trumps final White House chief of staff, took the stand in an effort to move his case to federal court, underscoring how some of the co-defendants are splintering to pursue their own strategies.
In particular, as Mr. Trump noted, the day after the trial would begin is Super Tuesday, when voters in over a dozen states will cast their primary votes. That voting will take place amid the likelihood of negative headlines pegged to the start of the trial, and his ability to travel and hold rallies campaigning for primaries in subsequent weeks is likely to be limited.

Defendants are generally required to be present at their trials. After preliminary matters like jury selection, prosecutors have estimated they will need about four to six weeks to present their case, after which defense lawyers will also have an opportunity to call additional witnesses.

Are trial calendars even subject to appeal?

Typically, no, but there are complexities.

First, Mr. Lauro could file a motion asking Judge Chutkan to reconsider the timing and fleshing out his argument that March 4 does not give the defense enough time to adequately prepare.

But if she declines to change it, decisions by a Federal District Court judge over a prospective trial calendar are not usually considered subject to an immediate appeal. Instead, if a claimed problem can be remedied by later overturning any guilty verdict, an appeal raising that issue must wait until after the trial.

Indeed, if the former president is convicted, Mr. Lauro appears to be laying the groundwork for Mr. Trump to argue in an appeal after the trial that the start date violated his constitutional right to have meaningful legal representation. Mr. Lauro told the judge on Monday that the defense team would not be able to provide adequate representation to Mr. Trump if it had to be prepared by March 4. Such a trial date would deny his client the opportunity to have effective assistance of counsel, he added.
A graduate student at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill has been charged in the fatal shooting of one of his professors on Monday, a killing that spread fear across the campus and forced an hourslong lockdown, according to court documents.

The student, Tailei Qi, 34, was charged with first-degree murder and possession of a firearm on educational property in the killing of Zijie Yan, an associate professor in the applied physical sciences department, inside a campus lab, according to court documents filed in Orange County Court in Hillsborough, N.C.

Mr. Qi made a brief appearance in court on Tuesday afternoon and was ordered held without bond until his next court appearance on Sept. 18. He did not enter a plea. The public defender who represented him did not immediately respond to an email and phone call seeking comment.

Although first-degree murder is a capital crime in North Carolina, Jeffrey L. Nieman, the Orange County district attorney, said he would not seek a death sentence. The charge carries a minimum sentence of life without parole, Mr. Nieman said.
Ugandan prosecutors have lodged charges of aggravated homosexuality against a 20-year-old man  a crime punishable by death  in one of the countrys first applications of a provision included in one of the worlds harshest antigay laws.

Same-sex acts had long been considered illegal under Ugandas penal code, but a law enacted this year introduced far harsher penalties and vastly extended the range of perceived offenses. Its passage drew condemnation from human rights groups and the United Nations, and the Biden administration called it one of the most extreme antigay measures in the world.

The measure, signed into law in May, called for life in prison for anyone who engaged in gay sex and allowed the death penalty for what it labeled aggravated homosexuality. That category included same-sex relations with disabled people, who were defined very broadly.

Prosecutors used the death penalty provision this month to charge a 20-year-old man with having sexual intercourse with a 41-year-old man with a disability in the city of Soroti, in Eastern Uganda, according to Jacquelyn Okui, a spokeswoman for the Office of the Director of Public Prosecution. (A separate case against a different man, lodged last month, involved an underage person, Ms. Okui said.)
To the residents and business owners of Chedun, a working-class neighborhood in the southwestern outskirts of Shanghai, the signs of an anemic economy are all around. The factories that once drew workers from around the country have moved away. Those that remain have slashed wages. Around the affordable eateries and motley shops where workers once crowded, employees eagerly latch onto anyone passing by.

No one has money now, its obvious, Cherry Qian, 25, said as she sat inside the electronics store she manages, which on Sunday afternoon had seen only one customer.

But theres one place the downturn isnt as obvious: in the governments account of it.

A gulf has emerged between the Chinese economy as many Chinese are experiencing it, and Beijings narrative of it  and that gulf is only widening. For many ordinary Chinese, one of the worst economic slowdowns the country has faced in decades has translated into widespread pessimism and resignation. But state media and officials continue to declare that any challenges are blips.
Information about the burial could not be confirmed independently, because by the time it was released, hundreds of police officers and national guard troops ringed the entire cemetery and sealed it off to all but a few people. All that could be seen of the grave from a bridge over the cemetery were a large Russian flag, a Wagner flag, and the top of a wooden cross. A Times reporter saw policemen sweeping the funeral plot with a dog trained to detect explosives.

Mr. Prigozhin was once seen as being close to President Vladimir V. Putin, and for years he and his Wagner military company were lethal tools of Kremlin policy in Ukraine, the Middle East and Africa, and gained a popular following. Then in June he led a brief mutiny against the Russian military leadership, leading to widespread speculation that his days were numbered.

On Aug. 23, a business jet carrying Mr. Prigozhin fell, smoking, from the sky northwest of Moscow. All ten people aboard were killed, including the three top figures in Wagner, leaving the groups future in doubt.

The confusion about his burial and heavy security presence at Porokhovskoye ensured that the throng of supporters expected to attend never materialized.
Almost 100 years ago, a hand-carved totem pole was cut down in the Nass Valley in the northwest of Canadas British Columbia.

The 36-foot tall pole had been carved from red cedar in the 1860s to honor Tswawit, a warrior from the Indigenous Nisgaa Nation, who was next in line to become chief before he was killed in conflict.

A Canadian anthropologist, Marius Barbeau, oversaw the removal of the memorial pole in the summer of 1929, while the Nisgaa people were away from their villages on an annual hunting, fishing and harvesting trip, according to the Nisgaa government.

Mr. Barbeau sent the pole to a buyer more than 4,000 miles away: the Royal Scottish Museum in Edinburgh  today known as the National Museum of Scotland.
Flights in and out of Britain will be disrupted for days, the U.K. government said on Tuesday, after a technical issue with the countrys air traffic control system left thousands of passengers stranded abroad or facing severe delays.

Around 280 flights were canceled on Tuesday, about 5 percent of the total scheduled to leave or arrive in Britain, according to Cirium, an aviation analytics company, compounding travel woes for British holidaymakers after more than a thousand flights were canceled the day before.

The trouble came at a particularly busy time for travelers in Britain, many of whom were returning home from summer vacation or long weekends because Monday was a public holiday in the country.

The timing was not at all helpful for people, Mark Harper, the government minister responsible for transport policy, told the BBC on Tuesday morning. Its disrupted thousands of people. Lots of flights were canceled yesterday because of the imperative to keep the system working safely, and it is going to take some days to get completely everybody back to where they should be.
Pope Francis did not intend to glorify imperialistic logic in off-the-cuff remarks last week about expansionist 18th-century Russian rulers, the Vatican said on Tuesday, seeking to calm an outcry over comments that some critics said were too close to President Vladimir V. Putins justifications for invading Ukraine.

In a video speech to young Russian Catholics on Friday, The Pope intended to encourage the youth to preserve and promote all that is positive in the great Russian cultural and spiritual legacy, the Vatican spokesman, Matteo Bruni, said in a statement. Surely not to glorify imperialistic logic and government personalities.

At the conclusion of his speech, in which Francis encouraged young Catholic Russians to build bridges between generations and spread seeds of reconciliation, he invoked the legacy of the Great Russia of saints, rulers, Great Russia of Peter I, Catherine II, that empire  great, enlightened, of great culture and great humanity.

Those comments appeared to deviate from his prepared remarks, which were released in a Vatican bulletin that did not mention the extemporaneous references to the two former Russian tsars, who invaded parts of Ukraine in the 18th centuries.
Simone Noronha

For Migrating Birds, Its the Flight of Their Lives Leer en espanol

Americas birds are in trouble. Since 1970, nearly 3 billion birds have vanished from the skies over North America.

Most of those losses have been in migratory species, which may breed in the United States or Canada in the summer before heading elsewhere for the winter. Many spend more time living on Caribbean beaches or in Costa Rican forests than they do in American backyards. Theyre really visitors to North America, said Viviana Ruiz-Gutierrez, co-director of the Center for Avian Population Studies at the Cornell Lab of Ornithology.

Protecting these birds will require working across international borders and safeguarding all of their habitats, many of which are under threat. If migrating birds lose their winter refuges, the consequences will ripple across the hemisphere.

If we lose Central Americas forests, we can lose North Americas birds, said Jeremy Radachowsky, the director for Mesoamerica and the western Caribbean at the Wildlife Conservation Society.

To illuminate these connections, scientists at the Cornell Lab of Ornithology developed shared stewardship maps in collaboration with Partners in Flight, an international bird conservation network. Each map displays the key wintering grounds for the migratory species that have a significant summer presence in a particular U.S. state or region. The maps are based on data from eBird, a database of observations from bird watchers around the world.

Here are some of those connections.

The New York Metro Area

Many of New York Citys avian tourists summer on the shore and then migrate to winter habitats along the coasts of the southern United States or the Caribbean. Numerous shorebird populations have declined steeply in recent years, and they face threats throughout the entire migratory cycle.

CANADA UNITED STATES N.Y. metro area BERMUDA BAHAMAS MEXICO Maya Forest High BRAZIL Strength of summer-winter connection PERU Moderate CHILE Map shows where 13 bird species that breed in the N.Y. metro area typically migrate. ARGENTINA CANADA UNITED STATES N.Y. metro area BERMUDA BAHAMAS MEXICO Maya Forest High BRAZIL Strength of summer-winter connection PERU Moderate CHILE Map shows where 13 bird species that breed in the N.Y. metro area typically migrate. ARGENTINA CANADA UNITED STATES N.Y. metro area BERMUDA BAHAMAS MEXICO Maya Forest High BRAZIL Strength of summer-winter connection PERU Moderate CHILE The map shows where 13 bird species that breed in the N.Y. metro area typically migrate for the winter. ARGENTINA CANADA UNITED STATES N.Y. metro area BERMUDA BAHAMAS MEXICO Maya Forest BRAZIL High PERU Strength of summer-winter connection Moderate The map shows where 13 bird species that breed in the N.Y. metro area typically migrate for the winter. CHILE ARGENTINA CANADA UNITED STATES N.Y. metro area BERMUDA BAHAMAS MEXICO Maya Forest BRAZIL PERU High Strength of summer-winter connection Moderate CHILE The map shows where 13 bird species that breed in the N.Y. metro area typically migrate for the winter. ARGENTINA

Theres very little land along coasts that is free of disturbance or pollution of one kind or another, said Ken Rosenberg, a conservation scientist who recently retired from the Cornell lab and helped create Partners in Flight. Shorebirds are very vulnerable to that kind of disturbance.

The petite, plump piping plover has been the focus of conservation efforts along its East Coast breeding grounds, including in New York City. But about one-third of the Atlantic population spends the winter in the Bahamas, where many of the birds tend to congregate in just a few locations, scientists have found. What that means is by doing work in those areas, you can make a large difference on the conservation of that species, said Deb Hahn, the international relations director at the Association of Fish & Wildlife Agencies.

Ms. Hahn coordinates Southern Wings, which helps state fish and wildlife agencies connect with conservation groups working in the places where their bird populations winter. Through Southern Wings, 41 state agencies have donated nearly $3.9 million to projects in 11 countries, including to piping plover projects in the Bahamas.

The New York metro area is also home to many forest-dwelling songbirds. The wood thrush, whose heralded song is often said to sound like a flute, breeds throughout the eastern United States, but its population has plummeted over the last half century. In the fall, many wood thrushes head to the Maya Forest, which spans Mexico, Guatemala and Belize and is one of five major swaths of intact forest remaining in Central America.

Some migratory species, including some that are in pretty steep decline, are hugely dependent on only these five great forests, said Anna Lello-Smith, the avian conservation coordinator for Mesoamerica and the western Caribbean at the Wildlife Conservation Society.

But cattle ranching, much of it illegal, has resulted in significant deforestation, she said. The Wildlife Conservation Society is now working with a coalition of Central American governments and other organizations, such as the Mesoamerican Alliance for People and Forests, to protect these habitats as part of the Five Great Forests Initiative.

Missouri

Missouri provides breeding habitats for many grassland bird species, which have been faring especially poorly in recent decades. Many spend the winter in the southeastern United States, but others find their way to South America.

CANADA UNITED STATES Mo. BERMUDA MEXICO VENEZUELA COSTA RICA High BRAZIL Strength of summer-winter connection PERU Moderate Map shows where 49 bird species that breed in Missouri typically migrate. ARGENTINA CANADA UNITED STATES Mo. BERMUDA MEXICO VENEZUELA COSTA RICA High BRAZIL Strength of summer-winter connection PERU Moderate Map shows where 49 bird species that breed in Missouri typically migrate. ARGENTINA CANADA UNITED STATES Mo. BERMUDA MEXICO VENEZUELA COSTA RICA BRAZIL High Strength of summer-winter connection PERU Moderate The map shows where 49 bird species that breed in Missouri typically migrate for the winter. ARGENTINA CANADA UNITED STATES Mo. BERMUDA CUBA MEXICO VENEZUELA COSTA RICA BRAZIL High PERU Strength of summer-winter connection Moderate The map shows where 49 bird species that breed in Missouri typically migrate for the winter. ARGENTINA CANADA UNITED STATES Mo. BERMUDA CUBA MEXICO VENEZUELA COSTA RICA BRAZIL PERU High Strength of summer-winter connection Moderate The map shows where 49 bird species that breed in Missouri typically migrate for the winter. ARGENTINA

The dickcissel, a yellow-breasted songbird, winters in Venezuela, while the striking bobolink  males sport black and white feathers during the breeding season  journeys as far as Argentina, one of the longest migrations for a songbird. Both species, which sometimes feed on crops, have been targeted for being pests. Human development and the expansion of farming also pose risks to grassland species, as does the mowing of fields, where many birds build their nests.

Missouri also hosts many forest birds, which may migrate to Cuba, Central Americas five great forests or the slopes of South Americas Andes Mountains. The cerulean warbler, which can be found breeding in the Appalachian Mountains or the Ozarks, relies on forests in the Andes, which have also been threatened by agriculture and other human activities.

We cant ignore the threats that these birds are facing when theyre beyond our borders, said Sarah Kendrick, a migratory bird biologist for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and a former state ornithologist for the Missouri Department of Conservation.

SELVA, a conservation nonprofit based in Colombia, has been working to learn more about the cerulean warblers movements and survival during its time in South America; several Missouri birding groups donated funds to these recent tracking efforts. Through the Neotropical Flyways Project, SELVA and its partners have also identified a site in the Caribbean foothills of Costa Rica that serves as an important refueling site for migrating cerulean warblers. Tree planting and landowner engagement efforts are now underway there. We have been able to implement conservation recommendations almost immediately, said Nick Bayly, SELVAs director of migratory ecology. Thats been really exciting.

Colorado

Colorado hosts breeding populations of many Great Plains and Western species, such as the Swainsons hawk, whose migration is something of a natural spectacle. The raptors travel to the grasslands of Argentina, soaring on currents of warm air in flocks that can contain thousands of birds.

CANADA Colo. UNITED STATES MEXICO ECUADOR High BRAZIL Strength of summer-winter connection Moderate Map shows where 60 bird species that breed in Colorado typically migrate. ARGENTINA CANADA Colo. UNITED STATES MEXICO ECUADOR High BRAZIL Strength of summer-winter connection Moderate Map shows where 60 bird species that breed in Colorado typically migrate. ARGENTINA CANADA Colo. UNITED STATES MEXICO ECUADOR High BRAZIL Strength of summer-winter connection Moderate The map shows where 60 bird species that breed in Colorado typically migrate for the winter. ARGENTINA CANADA UNITED STATES Colo. MEXICO ECUADOR BRAZIL High Strength of summer-winter connection Moderate The map shows where 60 bird species that breed in Colorado typically migrate for the winter. ARGENTINA CANADA UNITED STATES Colo. MEXICO ECUADOR BRAZIL High Strength of summer-winter connection Moderate The map shows where 60 bird species that breed in Colorado typically migrate for the winter. ARGENTINA

But many Colorado species make much shorter trips, hopping down to Mexico for the winter. That includes the mountain plover, a grassland bird whose tawny-colored coat provides such good camouflage that it has been called the prairie ghost. Some of the birds, which are listed as near threatened, winter in the arid grasslands of Northern Mexico. (Others stay stateside, waiting out winter in Texas or California.)

Climate change, overgrazing by local livestock and the expansion of farming all threaten these grasslands, which provide winter habitats for many Great Plains birds. A variety of Mexican nonprofits, community groups and universities are working to monitor, restore and protect these grasslands, often in partnership with U.S.-based groups, such as the Bird Conservancy of the Rockies.

Colorados cliffs and caves also provide homes for one of the most mysterious migrating birds: the black swift, which sometimes breeds behind waterfalls. In the fall, some of the birds seem to fly, nonstop, to the Amazon. But black swifts are spotted so rarely in their wintering grounds that the Cornell team cannot include the birds on its stewardship maps. Theres no birders that see them there, said Andrew Stillman, a postdoctoral fellow at the Cornell Lab of Ornithology and the Cornell Atkinson Center for Sustainability. Its very likely that they just dont land during the winter.

California

Hundreds of West Coast species migrate along what is known as the Pacific Flyway, which stretches from Alaska to the tip of South America. Many venture no farther than Mexico, where they tend to stay closer to the Pacific Coast than many of Colorados bird species do, said Archie Jiang, a research technician at the Cornell lab.

Alaska CANADA UNITED STATES Calif. MEXICO Marismas Nacionales High BRAZIL Strength of summer-winter connection PERU Salt lakes Moderate Map shows where 37 bird species that breed in California typically migrate. URUGUAY ARGENTINA Alaska CANADA UNITED STATES Calif. MEXICO Marismas Nacionales High BRAZIL Strength of summer-winter connection PERU Salt lakes Moderate Map shows where 37 bird species that breed in California typically migrate. URUGUAY ARGENTINA Alaska CANADA UNITED STATES Calif. MEXICO Marismas Nacionales High BRAZIL Strength of summer-winter connection PERU Moderate Salt lakes The map shows where 37 bird species that breed in California typically migrate for the winter. CHILE URUGUAY ARGENTINA Alaska CANADA UNITED STATES Calif. MEXICO Marismas Nacionales BRAZIL High PERU Strength of summer-winter connection Salt lakes Moderate The map shows where 37 bird species that breed in California typically migrate for the winter. CHILE URUGUAY ARGENTINA Alaska CANADA UNITED STATES Calif. MEXICO Marismas Nacionales BRAZIL PERU BOLIVIA High Strength of summer-winter connection Salt lakes Moderate CHILE The map shows where 37 bird species that breed in California typically migrate for the winter. URUGUAY ARGENTINA

For instance, the mangrove swamps of the Marismas Nacionales, where conservation efforts are underway, are a popular destination for shorebirds and waterfowl. And many hermit warblers, which breed in the Sierra Nevada and Cascade mountains, spend winter in Mexicos pine-oak forests. This is a classic Pacific Northwest to west Mexico species, Mr. Jiang said.

But some elegant terns  anchovy-loving seabirds that nest in large colonies  fly all the way down to Chile.

Then there is Wilsons phalarope, an unusual shorebird that often lives inland, despite a predilection for salt water. The birds breed at marshes and wetlands across the Western United States and Canada. Then, many of them assemble at Utahs Great Salt Lake before flying off to the salt lakes of the high Andes.

How to Help

These maps are just a snapshot of the migratory connections that exist across the hemisphere, and experts highlighted many more species, habitats and conservation projects worthy of attention. There is no single pattern that describes the migratory behavior of birds in California or New York, and protecting these birds will require efforts that are as diverse and far-flung as their habitats.

All these birds have figured out different ways of doing this big thing called migration, Dr. Stillman said. It reflects many, many hundreds of thousands of years of evolution. And its neat to see how different birds have arrived at different answers.

The Cornell lab is making the shared stewardship maps available to state agencies in hopes of helping them determine where they might want to invest in research and conservation. But the scientists also hope that the maps will help the public understand that our migratory birds are shared  as is the responsibility for protecting them.

American bird-lovers can help by supporting conservation efforts abroad, through donations, responsible bird-watching tours or the purchase of bird-friendly coffee, which is grown without pesticides on farms that maintain healthy habitats for birds. Its critical for the general public to be aware of the choices that they make and how they can actually have a positive impact somewhere else, said Camila Gomez, director of education and training at SELVA.

We can also become better hosts of these birds while they are in our own backyards. Simple but helpful steps include treating windows to prevent birds from colliding with buildings, keeping cats indoors and planting native greenery, experts said.

None of us alone can do it, Dr. Ruiz-Gutierrez said. It is the local, on-the-ground conservation efforts in Central and South America that results in many Americans seeing birds in their backyards in the spring, she added. And then whatever you do that summer results in them seeing birds returned back in the fall, she said. And its really that connection thats important.
Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh (R) and his visiting Singaporean counterpart Lee Hsien Loong (Photo: VNA)

PM Pham Minh Chinh stressed the importance of Lees visit in the context that the two countries are celebrating the 50th anniversary of their bilateral diplomatic ties (1973 - 2023) and the 10 years of their strategic partnership (2013-2023), saying it is expected to contribute to strengthening the relationship.

The trip also demonstrates the resolve by the two countries in cooperation to elevate the relationship to a new level and to make it more intensive, extensive, comprehensive, sustainable, and inclusive, for peace, stability, and development in the region, he said.

Congratulating Singapore on its economic recovery and development, the Vietnamese leader expressed his belief that it will soon achieve its Green Plan 2030, contributing to building a strong, united, and self-resilient ASEAN Community.

For his part, Lee commended Vietnams great achievements in socio-economic recovery and development after the COVID-19 pandemic, and noted with pleasure the development of the bilateral relations over the past time.

Vietnam is an important strategic partner of Singapore in the region, the PM affirmed.

Host and guest shared the view that the Vietnam-Singapore relationship is at its best ever, with various important cooperation agreements put in place. Notably, in the first eight months of this year, Singapore made up the largest share of foreign investments in Vietnam with total newly-registered capital exceeding 3.6 billion USD.

They consented to step up delegation exchanges at all levels and through the channels of Party, State, Government and legislature, and hold their annual meetings to compare notes on the bilateral ties and issues of shared concern.

The two countries will also effectively materialise high-level cooperation agreements and mechanisms, and coordinate in organising activities celebrating the above-said 50th and 10th anniversaries, including the Spotlight Singapore in Vietnam slated for October.

The leaders emphasised the need to fruitfully realise the partnership in digital economygreen economy established in February, and spoke highly of joint efforts in upgrading the framework agreement on connecting the two economies, contributing to deepening and expanding the economic cooperation to such new areas as clean energy, energy transition, and innovation.

PM Pham Minh Chinh suggested Singapore facilitate the export of Vietnamese goods into the market, as well as the development and the transformation of the Vietnam-Singapore Industrial Parks (VSIPs) to smart, green low-carbon industrial parks, towards the industrial-urban ecosystem.

He also called on Singapore to expand investments in Vietnams key, priority spheres like electronics, smart manufacturing, IT, digital technology and new materials, and help the country boost industries in support of such sectors as garment-textile, wood processing, shipbuilding, industrial infrastructure development, chemicals, petrochemicals, and liquefied natural gas, among others.

The two sides concurred to enhance cooperation in national defence and security through the signing and implementation of relevant cooperation agreements, along with dialogue mechanisms, and coordination in multilateral mechanisms and activities.

Both rejoiced at cooperation in digital transformation and national data centre building.

In this regard, Chinh suggested Singapore help Vietnam build and operate a large database centre to improve efficiency in the fight against crimes, especially high-tech ones, and soon connect Vietnam's system with the electronic identification and authentication system in Singapore in order to make it easier for their citizens in traveling, living, and working.

The two PMs agreed to promote cooperation in other key areas, including finance, banking, and tourism; and highly valued documents on cooperation in education-training signed on this occasion.

PM Pham Minh Chinh suggested expanding cultural collaboration, making it catch up or harmonise with the bilateral economic ties.

Regarding multilateral and regional cooperation, the two sides highly valued each other's regular coordination and mutual support in the election and running for election to the UN's offices and organisations. They also consented to continue their coordination with other ASEAN member countries in trade and investment promotion, and maintaining the groupings stance on the East Sea issue.

Both emphasised the significance of navigation and aviation freedom and safety, and the full and effective implementation of the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the East Sea (DOC), striving to build an effective and substantive Code of Conduct in the East Sea (COC) in line with international law, including the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (1982 UNCLOS).

Following the talks, the leaders witnessed the signing of seven cooperation documents, including a study agreement for high-ranking officials of the Communist Party of Vietnam for the 2024-2026 period between the two foreign ministries, and others covering economy, innovation, labour, climate change response, education, and sustainable infrastructure development./.
The Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers has retained The Levinson Group for PR support in its battle with striking screenwriters and actors over compensation and the use of artificial intelligence.

The Writers Guild of America went on strike on May 2. It was joined by members of the Screen Actors Guild  American Federation of Television and Radio Artists on July 14.

Molly Levinsons firm is charged with providing strategic communications regarding the union negotiations. The studios and streaming companies are struggling to overcom the perception that they are greedy and out-of-touch with the people responsible for producing Hollywoods magic.

AMPTP released a revised proposal to the WGA on Aug. 23 that recognized the foundational role writers play in the industry.

President Carol Lombardini said AMPTPs priority is to end the strike so that valued members of the creative community can return to what they do best and the end the hardships that so many people and businesses that service the industry are experiencing.

The WGA dismissed the revised AMPTP offer as either nothing, or not nearly enough.

Washingtons Precision Strategies, which was co-founded by Joe Bidens deputy chief of staff Jen OMalley Dillon, represents SAG-AFTRA.
Twelve became six after the semifinals of the Boylesports Irish Derby last Saturday. It was a night of shocks at Headquarters as three of the top four, in the betting, to lift the most sought after trophy in greyhound racing exited the competition. Sadly this included our own Trinity Junior.



In addition to the derby there was an abundance of quality racing around the tracks with plenty of valuable finals up for grabs. Offaly winners were to the fore once again with a fine total of first placed dogs



Early Week Racing.



Monday, Enniscorthy, in the final of the Public House Open unraced stake that has been going on for the last four weeks with some quality pups on view. The 2.5k first prize went to Edermine Bonner (Cushie Jet - Edermine Cooper) for Thomas and Patrick OGorman in 29.03 (20 slow) by one length at 3/1. Cream came to the top here as Bonner won three of the four heats by an accumulative total of seven lengths.



Thursday, Shelbourne, two finals of note, both worth 1.75k to the winner.

In the Barking Buzz ON1 unraced stake, the classicly bred Swords Hudson (Droopys Sydney - Newinn Cuckoo) shone through as he won by two lengths at 2/1 for champion trainer Graham Holland in 28.88.

In the second final, the Talking Dogs D2 750 stake, Cashen Bazooka (Laughil Blake - Looking Sharp) won for Chris Houlihan in 42.14 by two lengths at 4/1



Friday Racing



In Curraheen Park in Cork, in the first round of the Jack, Mary and Brian Finn Memorial ON2 unraced stake, six heats with a double for Holland. Faypoint Sydney went fastest of the six for Waterford trainer Peter Cronin in 28.41 by nine lengths at 4/6 fav.



The best final for the earlier part of the week was in Kilkenny, the Boylesports A3 bitch stake dominated a decent card in the Marble City. The 5k first prize pot went to Droopys Have It (King Sheeran - Droopys Pickles) in 28.71 (10 fast) by three lengths at 2/1 with Ian Reilly training.

Three Offaly winners in Shelbourne Park, two for Croghan trainer Gerry Merriman. In an A2 grade Highview Treat won in 28.87 by four lengths at 5/1. In an AO race, Highview Splash won in 28.82 by one length at 1/1 fav. Also in an AO, Ripley Delight won for the great Paddy McCormack in 28.79 by one length at 5/1.



Tralee staged the first round of a new stake, the Chris ODriscoll Foundation A2 sweepstake, six heats all very competitive. Saleen Bradley set the standard for Patrick OConnor in 28.31 (20 fast) by seven lengths at 2/1.



Saturday Racing.



First Offaly winner was in Thurles, in an A4 525, Totos Bliss won for Birr owner Tony McCormack and Denis Fogarty in 29.06 (20 slow) by five lengths.



Limerick, in the quarterfinals of the Go Greyhound Racing A3 600 yard stake, Chestnut King set the bar highest for Paraic Campion in 32.14 by nine lengths at 1/1 fav. Curraheen Park hosted the quarterfinals of the Kasco A1 Derby, four very evenly contested heats with a double for local trainer Kieran Lynch. Jacktavern Bolt again went fastest for Holland in a super 28.15 by five lengths at 1/2 and looks the one they all have to beat moving into Saturdays semifinals.



One Offaly winner in Mullingar, in the first round of the Vincent Leavy Memorial A4 stake, four heats, Casa Miro won heat three for Edenderry owners Paul and David Hanlon in 29.67 (50 slow) by six lengths at 1/1 fav.



Some top class racing in Kilcohan Park in Waterford with two of their annual stakes getting underway. In the first round of the Casey Camping and Caravan Open unraced stake, four heats, won last year by Off To Sydney for Pat Buckley. A superstar may have been found here as Epic Chick stopped the clock in 28.18 winning by thirteen lengths at 1/2 fav for John Kennedy Jnr which is an amazing run for a pup on debut. The other three heat winners were half a second slower. In the first round of the Dave Collins Memorial Munster Oaks, won last year by Clogheen Lass for Graham Holland and two weeks ago won the John Fitzgerald Memorial open Oaks also in Waterford. Four heats again with Glengar Martha going fastest for Buckley in 28.54 by one length at 3/1.



Boylesports Irish Derby.



It was a night of shocks in the semifinals of the derby on Saturday, with three hotpots all exiting, favorite De Lahdedah, second favorite Coolavanny Hoffa and Offalys best dog and probably best chance of making the final in years Trinity Junior for Edenderry owner Timmy Slevin. However the six remaining dogs are all worthy of being in the final and can look forward to being paraded on Saturday in the final of the Derby.



Heat one went to Music Glideaway for Pat Guilfoyle as he took a flyer from trap six and has again got his favorite trap for the final and was never in any trouble, winning by four lengths at 5/1 from a fast finishing Well Met and his trainer John Jones in 29.32. Threesixfive finished third for Scott Phelan and can look forward to the coming week.



Trinity Junior for Slevin and Clonroosk Sydney for Portlaoise owners Ray Cookie Conroy and Ollie Dunne collided coming out of traps and that put paid to their chances. However both sets of owners while disappointed have had an incredible journey with their dogs in this toughest of competitions and should rightly feel very proud.



The second semi was always going to be a battle as all of the six had credentials to justify qualifying. As it turned out The Other Kobe pinged the lids and was never in trouble for Jennifer ODonnell winning by one length also at 5/1 in 29.58 with Bens Teddy in second for Pat Buckley. Bockos Crystal made the last spot to qualify for Graham Holland another length back. Some of the losers on the night can feel a small bit a grieved with not getting a clear run but thats what makes semifinals so special.



Four dogs and two bitches will make up the final with six different trainers represented. Leading stud dog Droopys Sydney will have three in final with two from progeny of Ballymac Best and one from Newinn Taylor makes the Lineup.



Last year's winner Born Warrior has a representative again in final as The Other Kobe is a full brother to him and would be a remarkable achievement if two brothers won it two years in a row, not without a chance with his super early pace. Great achievement for their trainer Jennifer ODonnell.



Last year after the Covid lockdown was lifted we had a record crowd for manys a year in attendance and expect the same on Saturday, get there early otherwise Virgin media three will be showing it live on the TV. It promises to be a special night.



Derby Betting.



Sponsors Boylesports have installed The Other Kobe as 2/1 fav to win the trophy with Music Glideaway at 10/3. Well Met is 7/2 with the fast finishing Bens Teddy at 9/2. Graham Holland representative Bockos Crystal is 5/1 with the outsider of the field Threesixfive at 33/1. Plenty of value there, picking the winner is the conundrum.



Sunday Racing.



Just the one Offaly winner at the matinee meeting in Mullingar, in an A5 contest, Lahinch Roxy had her sixth career win for Clara owner P.J. Cleary in 30.01 (50 slow) by a neck at 3/1.



Upcoming Events.



Friday, quarter-finals of the Jack, Mary and Brian Finn Memorial ON2 unraced in Cork and quarterfinals of the Chris ODriscoll Foundation A2 stake in Tralee.



Saturday, semifinals of the Kasco A1 Derby in Cork, Semifinals of the Vincent Leavy Memorial A4 in Mullingar, semifinals of the Go Greyhound Racing A3 600 in Limerick, semifinals of the Casey Caravan and Camping Open unraced and Dave Collins Memorial Munster Oaks in Waterford. Final of the Michael Fortune Memorial Derby Plate and of course the big one, final of the most Prestigious trophy in all Greyhound Racing, the Boylesports Irish Derby. What a week of racing to come.



Tribune Offaly dog of the week.



While disappointingly not making the final Trinity Junior gets the nod again just for getting to the semifinal of the Boylesports Irish Derby. A remarkable achievement for his owner Timmy Slevin and no doubt well be seeing plenty more of this super hound moving forward.



Offaly Winners.



On a great week for Faithful County greyhounds we ended up with six winners in total. Well done to all involved in any way.
Tipperary ETB alumnus Conor Grace (pictured inset) is among eight students and apprentices from the Premier County who will compete in Dublin next month at Worldskills Ireland 2023, the countrys largest experiential skills, apprenticeships and careers event.

The Toomevara man is among over 160 national finalists who will go head-to-head at the RDS from September 20-22, in a range of skills-based trades including automation, constructions skills and culinary arts. Competitors are in with a chance of winning the prestigious Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science (DFHERIS) Silver Medal, and get the opportunity to represent Ireland at Worldskills Lyon next year.

Worldskills Ireland 2023 is expected to welcome over 22,000 people including students, parents and teachers, and will be a live celebration of apprenticeships, skills and careers with interactive demonstrations, career zones and employers who are ready to recruit.

Conor is an electrician working with ESB Networks. He attended his Phase 2 training in the Tipperary ETB Further Education and Training (FET) Centre in Archerstown, Thurles, from October 2019 to March 2020. His instructor, Gavin O'Dwyer, commented: Conor is an exceptional talent with an outstanding aptitude for all aspects of electrical craft. He has a very practical approach to problem solving combined with a positive attitude. Conor was a pleasure to instruct as part of his electrical apprenticeship in Tipperary ETB.

The management and staff of Tipperary ETB wish him the best of luck in the competition. Supported by industry partners SISK, Construction Industry Federation (CIF), ESB Networks, Autodesk, Bus Eireann and Dublin Bus and education partners including the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science (DFHERIS), the Higher Education Authority (HEA), SOLAS and NAO, Worldskills Ireland 2023 is designed to give students a chance to discover the key skills and sectors that drive the Irish economy.

Joining the other national finalists from across the country are County Tipperary natives:

Brett Adams, Clonmel, is competing in the Automobile Technology competition

Conor Bourke, Nenagh, is competing in the Carpentry competition

Luke Slattery, Clonmel, is competing in the Digital Construction BIM competition

Sophia Quinlan, Thurles, is competing in the Hairdressing competition

Conor Grace, Toomevara, is competing in the Industrial Control competition

Victor Martea, Cahir, is competing in the Industrial Mechanic competition

Owen Powell, Newport is competing in the Metal Fabrication competition

Kate Ryan, Cashel, is competing in the Restaurant Service competition

Tipperary ETB is also inviting the public to visit them at their stalls in the FET (Further Education and Training) Village at the RDS over the three days. Tipperary ETB staff will be leading promotion of Health courses in collaboration with This is FET.

Lifeline Ambulance Service will attend the stall over the three days, and will have two paramedics, an advanced paramedic and two Emergency Medical Technicians (EMT) present. Theyll also provide the opportunity for learners to access and view an ambulance, as well as resources and equipment for CPR, AED defibrillator machine for heart checks, blood pressure checks, phlebotomy training, and much more.

Tipperary ETB will also have its own stand, located at ET9, in the ETB area, where youll be able to find information about all courses available in the Premier County.

About Tipperary ETB

Tipperary Education and Training Board (ETB) is the statutory provider of education for county Tipperary.

Tipperary ETB manages dedicated Further Education & Training (FET) centres across Tipperary, including the state-of-the-art training facility at Archerstown, Thurles, as well as the delivery of Youthreach, Lifelong Learning and a wide range of education services for people of almost any age.

Adult Learning Service

Under the Adult Learning Service, Tipperary ETB runs a long list of free, part-time courses across the north of the county, in locations including Roscrea, Nenagh, Borrisokane and Thurles.

Our Digital Literacy courses allow people of all ages to learn how to use a smartphone more effectively, as well as improving computer skills, spreadsheets and internet skills. Meanwhile, our General Learning courses focus on reading and writing skills, maths, creative writing, public speaking, driver theory preparation, and much more.

Are you interested in doing one of our free, part-time courses? Contact Nicola OCarroll at 067 31845 or nocarroll@tipperaryetb.ie.

Community Education

Tipperary ETB also runs a variety of Community Education courses across the north of the county, focusing on wellbeing topics which may be of interest to you. Our courses include yoga, mindfulness, arts and crafts, genealogy, wood carving, personal development, textile art and embroidery.

Are you interested in learning more about one of these topics? Contact Tipperary ETB at 067 31845 to find a Tipperary ETB course near you.

ESOL  English for Speakers of Other Languages

Tipperary ETBs ESOL service provides English language classes throughout the county. Our classes include Basic Survival English, English for the Workplace and Exam English.

We focus on the four main language areas - reading, writing, listening and speaking. Learners are initially assessed and offered a course appropriate to their level.

If you or someone you know would like to avail of classes in the Roscrea area, please contact Fainche Egan on 085 8598266 / fegan@tipperaryetb.ie or search www.fetchcourses.ie

Tipperary ETB Courses in Roscrea and Nenagh

Click here or scan the QR code below for the full list of courses.

*Sponsored Content
If Ramanagara District Is Renamed As Bangalore South, Property Prices May Soar In The Area

Bengaluru-Mysuru Expressway: Police On High Alert After Series Of Robberies

Bengaluru

oi-Madhuri Adnal

In response to a surge in robbery incidents, police has heightened patrolling efforts along the Bengaluru-Mysuru expressway. Over the span of two months, three separate car robberies incident were reported within the 55-kilometer stretch of this highway situated in the Mandya district, prompting increased vigilance from the authorities. The incidents were duly reported to the Mandya police station.

On July 1, Muttappa, who was en route to Bengaluru for medical treatment, fell victim to a robbery near Maddur. While he had halted his car for a break during the journey, armed robbers threatened him and made away with jewelry and cash amounting to Rs 3.5 lakh. He promptly lodged a complaint at the Maddur police station.

Subsequently, on August 13, two robbery cases unfolded. Rakshith Reddy and Manasa Reddy, a couple from Kolar, were robbed near Shettyhalli in the Mandya district when they stopped to change a punctured tire. Motorcycle-borne assailants seized jewels worth Rs 1.70 lakh from them. A case was registered at the Srirangapatna rural police station.

Bengaluru-Mysuru Expressway: 24 Skywalks To Come Up To Curb Accidents

Another incident involved a family from Udupi, visiting Bengaluru for a trip, who were robbed near Srirangapatna. Two individuals posing as police personnel halted their car for inspection, then proceeded to threaten and abscond with jewelry and cash totaling Rs 1.50 lakh. A case was filed at the Srirangapatna police station concerning this incident.

The Mandya police have increased patrolling activities on the expressway as a direct response to the uptick in robbery occurrences.

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Story first published: Tuesday, August 29, 2023, 13:20 [IST]
If Ramanagara District Is Renamed As Bangalore South, Property Prices May Soar In The Area

Siddaramaiah Questions BJP's Leadership As Congress Marks 100 Days In Karnataka

Bengaluru

oi-Madhuri Adnal

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Monday questioned the leadership of the opposition Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) as his Congress government marked its 100th day in office.

Siddaramaiah pointed out that the BJP has been unable to designate an opposition leader in the Legislative Assembly for more than 100 days. He said that this is an unprecedented situation in the history of Karnataka's politics and is a sign of the BJP's decline in the state.

"Never before has a political party faced such a dismal state," Siddaramaiah said. "Even after more than 100 days since the new government's establishment, the BJP has yet to elect its opposition leader. This is an unprecedented scenario in the history of Karnataka's politics."

Siddaramaiah also responded to questions about Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent visit to ISRO in Bengaluru, during which he did not meet with his own party members. Siddaramaiah said that this is further evidence of the BJP's decline in Karnataka.

"Modi's absence from interactions with BJP members won't hinder the movement of its leaders toward the Congress," Siddaramaiah said. "We warmly welcome all those who adopt the Congress ideology."

Siddaramaiah's comments come at a time when the BJP is facing increasing challenges in Karnataka. The party has been hit by a series of defections in recent months, and its popularity has declined in opinion polls.

Siddaramaiah Formally Launches 'Gruha Jyothi' Scheme, Karnataka CM, Kharge Target PM Modi

The Congress party, on the other hand, is seen as being in a strong position. The party won the 2018 assembly elections with a comfortable majority, and Siddaramaiah is seen as a popular and effective leader.

The BJP is likely to face an uphill battle in the next assembly elections in Karnataka. The party will need to find a way to unite its ranks and regain the support of the people if it wants to return to power.

In addition to the issues mentioned by Siddaramaiah, the BJP is also facing criticism for its handling of the COVID-19 pandemic in Karnataka. The state has been one of the worst-hit by the pandemic, and the BJP has been accused of mismanaging the crisis.

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Story first published: Tuesday, August 29, 2023, 12:58 [IST]
Ambassador Nguyen Tuan speaking at the ceremony (Photo: VOV)

Speaking at the event held on August 25, Vietnamese Ambassador to Slovakia Nguyen Tuan emphasized that the Slovak Government's recognition of the Vietnamese community as the 14th ethnic minority group is a testament to their active role in Slovakia's development, thus making more effective contributions to the fine development of Vietnam-Slovakia friendship.

Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and Chairwoman of the State Committee on Overseas Vietnamese Affairs Le Thi Thu Hang said the Vietnamese Party and State always pay deep attention to the overseas Vietnamese community, considering them an inseparable part and an important resource of the Vietnamese nation.

She wished that they would continue upholding the tradition of mutual assistance, law abiding and active integration, thereby contributing to the development of the host country and looking toward the homeland.

Governor of Bratislava region Juraj Droba expressed his delight and readiness to support the community as an integral part of the European nation.

For his part, Chairman of the Overseas Vietnamese Association in Slovakia Vo Phuong thanked the Vietnamese Embassy as well as the authorities and people of Slovakia for supporting the community and pledged that they would continue serving as a bridge between the two countries and their people.

In early June the Slovak Government officially granted the national minority status for the Vietnamese community.

Slovakia is the second host country in the world to recognize the Vietnamese community as one of its ethnic minority groups after the Czech Republic./.
CM Stalin granted Rs.50000 to each house: Big save for Thundalkalani Samathuvapuram

Chennai

oi-Oneindia English Desk

Periyar's dream is to have a society which is not divided in the lines of caste and religion. In a way of realising this dream, former CM Karunanidhi introduced Samathuvapuram scheme in Melakkotai village, Madurai in 1998. In the later stages, the scheme was introduced in Viluppuram, Cuddalore, Kanchipuram districts where the impoverished people were given houses to live in.

The scheme was called the "Role model scheme" during the AIADMK government. The problem with the Role Model scheme is the lack of allocation of funds which affected the people living in these villages. Under the Dravidian model government, the scheme is revived and the villages are revitalised by former CM Karunanidhi.

One of the affected villages is Thundalkalani Samathuvapuram, situated in Kanchipuram district. It was inaugurated by CM Stalin on 28.11.2000, when he was the Mayor of Chennai. Because of the insufficient funds, the houses were in a state of despair. Coming to know about the situation, CM Stalin allotted Rs.50000 to each house for their reconstruction.

One of the residents said, "I was living in Manimangalam with 3 kids. With the knowledge of the Samathuvapuram scheme of former CM Karunanidhi, I gave a petition to Sriperumbudur office. After the survey and investigation by authorities, a house was built and given to me. Since then I have been living here for 23 years and now it has become by native place."

A senior woman said, "...people from different castes are living together here. Samathuvapuram houses served as the reason for the development of the whole area. Because of the Samathuvapuram scheme, now the area has all facilities such as drinking water, electricity, fair price shops, schools, health centres, and playgrounds."

Another woman said, "Children of all castes are studying together in schools and we also share everything from water to ration shops with other caste people. Following the announcement of CM Stalin about the issuance of pattas to the residents, document verification works are going on. Soon we will get the pattas for the houses also. Kalaignar was the one who gave houses to live in for helpless people. We are eternally grateful to Kalaignar without whom wage workers like us would have never gotten an opportunity to live in our own house."

The woman resident of 2nd house in Thundalkalani Samathuvapuram said, ".....former CM Karunanidhi gave us a house to live in and a television also. I have seen and worked in the construction of the houses in Samathuvapuram and while working here, the Collector told me that because of my hard work I got this house."

A widow residing in the area said, "I lived in Manimangalam when former CM Karunanidhi announced about the Samathuvapuram houses. My husband applied for the scheme and we got a house. This house is one of the reasons why I am leading a peaceful life after I lost my husband. We gave petitions to CM Stalin regarding the issue of leakages since the houses were constructed a long time ago. To address the issue, CM Stalin has given Rs.50000 to each house which can be used to solve the problem."

Another senior woman said, "Approximately 100 houses are here whose residents are from different castes. We do not know about their caste information but we live together like relatives. We conduct all the family functions in the community hall and I would like everyone to lead their lives harmoniously like us."

Karasangal Panchayat President said, "This is a reserved constituency which contains 4 hamlets. After my victory as the Panchayat President, we have made sure that the people of Samathuvapuram have all the basic amenities. Additionally we have ensured other facilities such as cement road, adequate drinking water supply, reconstruction of community hall, water tank and now Rs.50000 for reconstruction of houses."

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Story first published: Tuesday, August 29, 2023, 17:15 [IST]
Manipur Assembly Session Adjourned Sine Die After Ruckus By Congress MLAs

India

oi-Madhuri Adnal

The one-day session of the Manipur Assembly was adjourned sine die within an hour of commencement after Congress MLAs created a ruckus demanding that the session be extended to five days.

The opposition MLAs led by former chief minister Okram Ibobi Singh said one day was not enough to discuss the prevailing situation in the ethnic strife-torn state.

All the 10 Kuki MLAs were absent from the House.

The proceedings began at 11 am with two-minute silence for those killed in the ethnic violence between Meiteis and Kukis that began on May 3.

Chief Minister N Biren Singh, in his address, said, ''With great sorrow, we condole the deaths of those killed in the violence. In times like these, words seem inefficient for those who have lost their loved ones in the strife.'' The House resolved that all differences should be addressed through dialogue and peaceful means for communal harmony in the state.

The House also lauded the successful landing of Chandrayaan-3 on Moon and congratulated scientist N Raghu Singh, who is from Manipur and was in ISRO team that led the mission.

Soon after, Congress MLAs started shouting ''stop mockery, let's save democracy'' from their seats and demanded that a five-day session be held for discussing the situation in the state.

Speaker Th Satyabrata Singh urged the opposition MLAs to sit down but they continued with the ruckus, following which he adjourned the House for 30 minutes.

Reached Moon, Sending Man To Space ISROs Next Target, Says Manipur Rocket Scientist

As the House reassembled, the Congress MLAs continued with their protest, following which the Speaker, while stating that it was not possible to continue with the session amid the ruckus, adjourned the proceedings sine die.

The state government had last month recommended a session by August 21, but later revised it to August 28 on not getting a green light from the Raj Bhavan. Last week, the chief minister's office announced that the assembly will reconvene from August 29.

The previous assembly session was held in March and according to the norms, a session must be held every six months.

The Committee on Tribal Unity (CoTU) and the Indigenous Tribal Leaders Forum (ITLF) had recently denounced the convening of the session saying the present situation is not conducive for Kuki-Zo MLAs to attend it.

In a joint statement on Sunday, both the organisations said considering the complete breakdown of law and order and the failure of the state government in protecting the lives of the common people and officials, convening the session ''is devoid of logic and rationality.'' On Saturday, former Manipur chief minister and Congress leader Okram Ibobi Singh had said the session is an eyewash and not in public interest.

More than 160 people lost their lives and several hundreds were injured since ethnic clashes broke out in Manipur on May 3.
BJP, SP Make All-Out Efforts To Win Ghosi By-Election

India

oi-Madhuri Adnal

The Ghosi assembly by-election in Uttar Pradesh has become a fierce battle between the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Opposition Samajwadi Party (SP) with nothing at stake except pride. Both parties have deployed senior leaders and engaged in strategies, luring voters, and making promises while also accusing each other of being opportunistic, corrupt, and criminal.

The BJP's candidate, Dara Singh Chauhan, won the Ghosi seat in the March 2022 UP assembly elections on the SP ticket but recently quit the party and joined the BJP. He resigned as an MLA from the seat and would have lost his membership under anti-defection laws. When the by-election for Ghosi was announced, the BJP once again made Chauhan its candidate. In response to this betrayal, the SP fielded Sudhakar Singh, an upper caste Thakur candidate, to challenge Chauhan, who belongs to the OBC community. Interestingly, Chauhan had previously quit the BJP and joined the Samajwadi Party just before the assembly elections last year.

By-elections are usually less vocal when the government has a comfortable majority, and in this case, the BSP and Congress are not even contesting. The BSP has declared support for the SP candidate as both parties are part of the INDIA - a grouping of anti-BJP parties. However, things are different in the Ghosi by-election due to its historically socialist and communist stronghold, with fading support for Congress in the early years after independence. Former Union Minister and Congress leader Kalpnath Rai represented the Ghosi parliamentary seat four times in the 1990s.

The Samajwadi Party believes it deserves to win the seat due to the large number of OBCs and Muslims in the constituency. To ensure victory, SP leaders, including Akhilesh Yadav, Ram Gopal Yadav, and Shiv Pal Yadav, are campaigning in Ghosi alongside other senior party members. On the other hand, the BJP is relying on the support of upper caste and Dalit voters, as well as the advantage of being the governing party in the state. Numerous BJP ministers, including Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya and Transport Minister Daya Shankar Singh, are actively campaigning in Ghosi.

Puthuppally Bypoll: Chandy's Daughter Files Complaint Against Cyber Attacks On Her

For the SP, winning the September 5 election and retaining the OBC majority seat is crucial to showcase their ability to win back voters who may have shifted their support to the BJP. It is also important for Akhilesh Yadav to break the perception that the SP is a party exclusively for Yadavs. A victory would boost the morale of the SP cadre, who have experienced repeated defeats in recent elections. Meanwhile, the BJP aims to win Ghosi to emphasize that the party, led by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, can overcome any challenge in elections regardless of the candidate's support or caste affiliation.

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Story first published: Tuesday, August 29, 2023, 17:27 [IST]
Biden hails Australia as "anchor to peace and prosperity" in the Pacific

Former Premier Li Keqiang, China''s Top Economic Official For A Decade, Dies Of Heart Attack At 68

China Releases New 'Standard Map' Showing Arunachal Pradesh, Aksai Chin as Its Territory

India

oi-PTI

China has officially released the 2023 edition of its "standard map", which shows the state of Arunachal Pradesh and the Aksai Chin region as part of its territory.

The map released on August 28 shows Arunachal Pradesh, which China claims as South Tibet, and Aksai Chin occupied by it in the 1962 war as part of its territory.

Taiwan and the disputed South China Sea are also included within the Chinese territory in the new map.

The map also incorporates China's claims over the nine-dash line thus laying claim to a large part of the South China Sea.

Vietnam, the Philippines, Malaysia, and Brunei have all claims over the South China Sea areas.

The map was released by China's Ministry of Natural Resources during the celebration of Surveying and Mapping Publicity Day and the National Mapping Awareness Publicity Week on Monday in Deqing county, Zhejiang province, as per China Daily newspaper.

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Recently, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Xi Jinping met on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit in Johannesburg, South Africa.

Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra had said that in his conversation with President Xi Jinping, Prime Minister Modi highlighted India's concerns on unresolved issues along the Line of Actual Control in the Western Sector of the India-China border areas.

According to China Daily, an English-language daily newspaper owned by the Central Propaganda Department of the Chinese Communist Party, the chief planner of China's Ministry of Natural Resources, Wu Wenzhong, said surveying, mapping and geographic information play an important role in boosting the development of the nation, meeting the needs of all walks of life, supporting the management of natural resources, and helping the construction of ecology and civilisation.

"The next step will be to accelerate the application of geographic information data such as digital maps and navigation and positioning in the development of the digital economy, such as location-based services, precision agriculture, platform economy and intelligent connected vehicles," Wu said, as per China Daily.

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Story first published: Tuesday, August 29, 2023, 13:45 [IST]
EAM Jaishankar Gives A Befitting Reply On China's New Map

India

oi-Sushmita Halder

External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar on Tuesday denied China's claims of including Arunachal Pradesh and Aksai Chin in its latest map.

Reacting to China's official map including Arunachal Pradesh and Aksai Chin as its territory, EAM Jaishankar was quoted saying that the Government of India is very clear about its own territories and that China cannot absurdly make other's territories their own.

During an interview with NDTV, Jaishankar said, "It is an old habit. Just by putting out maps with parts of India....this doesn't change in anything."

Earlier on Monday, China officially released the 2023 edition of its "standard map", which shows the state of Arunachal Pradesh and the Aksai Chin region as part of its territory.

The map released on August 28 shows Arunachal Pradesh, which China claims as South Tibet, and Aksai Chin occupied by it in the 1962 war as part of its territory.

Taiwan and the disputed South China Sea are also included within the Chinese territory in the new map. The map also incorporates China's claims over the nine-dash line thus laying claim to a large part of the South China Sea. Vietnam, the Philippines, Malaysia, and Brunei have all claims over the South China Sea areas.

The map was released by China's Ministry of Natural Resources during the celebration of Surveying and Mapping Publicity Day and the National Mapping Awareness Publicity Week on Monday in Deqing county, Zhejiang province, as per China Daily newspaper.

Recently, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Xi Jinping met on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit in Johannesburg, South Africa.

Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra had said that in his conversation with President Xi Jinping, Prime Minister Modi highlighted India's concerns on unresolved issues along the Line of Actual Control in the Western Sector of the India-China border areas.

According to China Daily, an English-language daily newspaper owned by the Central Propaganda Department of the Chinese Communist Party, the chief planner of China's Ministry of Natural Resources, Wu Wenzhong, said surveying, mapping and geographic information play an important role in boosting the development of the nation, meeting the needs of all walks of life, supporting the management of natural resources, and helping the construction of ecology and civilisation.

"The next step will be to accelerate the application of geographic information data such as digital maps and navigation and positioning in the development of the digital economy, such as location-based services, precision agriculture, platform economy and intelligent connected vehicles," Wu said, as per China Daily.
Biden hails Australia as "anchor to peace and prosperity" in the Pacific

Former Premier Li Keqiang, China''s Top Economic Official For A Decade, Dies Of Heart Attack At 68

India Lodges Protests Over China's Standard Map, Says MEA Spokesperson

India

pti-PTI

India on Tuesday lodged a protest over China's Standard Map that claims Arunachal Pradesh and the Aksai Chin as its territories.

Arindam Bagchi, spokesperson of the External Affairs Ministry, said India rejects these claims as they have no basis and that such steps by the Chinese side only "complicate" the resolution of the boundary question.

"We have today lodged a strong protest through diplomatic channels with the Chinese side on the so-called 2023 'standard map' of China that lays claim to India's territory. We reject these claims as they are baseless. Such steps by the Chinese side only complicate the resolution of the boundary question," he was quoted as saying.

Meanwhile, External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar denied China's claims of including Arunachal Pradesh and Aksai Chin in its latest map.

Reacting to China's official map including Arunachal Pradesh and Aksai Chin as its territory, EAM Jaishankar was quoted saying that the Government of India is very clear about its own territories and that China cannot absurdly make other's territories their own.

While addressing the media over China's map, Jaishankar was quoted saying, "It is an old habit. Just by putting out maps with parts of India....this doesn't change in anything."

Earlier on Monday, China officially released the 2023 edition of its "standard map", which shows the state of Arunachal Pradesh and the Aksai Chin region as part of its territory. The map released on August 28 shows Arunachal Pradesh, which China claims as South Tibet, and Aksai Chin occupied by it in the 1962 war as part of its territory.

Taiwan and the disputed South China Sea are also included within the Chinese territory in the new map. The map also incorporates China's claims over the nine-dash line thus laying claim to a large part of the South China Sea. Vietnam, the Philippines, Malaysia, and Brunei have all claims over the South China Sea areas.

The map was released by China's Ministry of Natural Resources during the celebration of Surveying and Mapping Publicity Day and the National Mapping Awareness Publicity Week on Monday in Deqing county, Zhejiang province, as per China Daily newspaper.

Recently, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Xi Jinping met on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit in Johannesburg, South Africa.
Onam 2023 Celebrated With Much Pomp And Gaiety Across The World

India

oi-Madhuri Adnal

Malayalees around the world celebrated Thiruvonam on Tuesday, the main day of the 10-day Onam festival. The festival is a harvest festival that marks the homecoming of King Mahabali, who is said to have ruled Kerala with justice and prosperity.

Origins of Onam

The legend of King Mahabali is a popular one in Kerala. It is said that he was a benevolent ruler who was loved by his people. He was also a powerful warrior who defeated many enemies. However, Mahabali's father-in-law, Indra, the king of the gods, was jealous of his power and influence. He tricked Mahabali into going to the underworld, where he has been living ever since.

Celebrations in Kerala

In Kerala, Thiruvonam is a major festival. People start preparing for the festival days in advance. They clean their homes and decorate them with flowers and rangolis. They also buy new clothes and jewelry to wear for the festival.

#WATCH | Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin extends his wishes on Onam, in Malayalam.



(Video: Chief Minister's Twitter handle) pic.twitter.com/zFixIa8amd  ANI (@ANI) August 29, 2023

On the day of Thiruvonam, people wake up early in the morning and take a bath in the river or in a holy tank. They then dress in new clothes and visit temples to offer prayers. The highlight of the day is the feast, which typically includes Onam Sadhya, a traditional meal of 26 dishes.

Onam 2023: Droupadi Mumru, PM Modi, Kerala CM And Leaders Extend Greetings

#WATCH | Kerala | Former Rajya Sabha MP and actor Suresh Gopi inaugurates the #Onam celebrations at Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple in Thiruvananthapuram. Prince Adithya Varma of Travancore royal family also participates in the celebrations. pic.twitter.com/FWPMQEfWq3  ANI (@ANI) August 29, 2023

The dishes in Onam Sadhya are made with a variety of vegetables, rice, and lentils. They are also served with a variety of pickles, chutneys, and sauces. The feast is usually eaten on a banana leaf.

In addition to feasting and visiting temples, people also enjoy other cultural activities such as boat races, dance performances, and music concerts. Thiruvonam is a time for families to come together and celebrate their culture and heritage.

#WATCH | Kerala | Devotees participate in the rituals for #Onam, being performed at Thrikkakkara Vamana Moorthy Temple in Kochi. https://t.co/AvSxKBszFw pic.twitter.com/IsDHcXceQL  ANI (@ANI) August 29, 2023

Onam celebrations abroad

Malayalees living abroad also celebrate Thiruvonam with great enthusiasm. In Dubai, a grand Onam feast was organized by the Indian Consulate. In London, a cultural event was held at the Southbank Centre. And in New York, a Thiruvonam procession was held in Manhattan.

The events abroad are a way for Malayalees to stay connected to their culture and heritage. They also provide an opportunity for Malayalees from different parts of the world to come together and celebrate their shared traditions.

The importance of Onam

Onam is a festival that is rich in symbolism. It is a time for Malayalees to reflect on the past year and to look forward to the future. It is also a time to celebrate the importance of family, community, and culture.

#WATCH | Kerala | People visit Pazhavangaadi Sree Maha Ganapathy Temple in Thiruvananthapuram to offer prayers on #Onam pic.twitter.com/21Awx3CnfM  ANI (@ANI) August 29, 2023

Onam is a time for hope and optimism. It is a time to believe that good will always triumph over evil. It is a time to celebrate the abundance of life and to give thanks for all that we have.

#WATCH | Kerala | People visit Thrikkakkara Vamana Moorthy Temple in Kochi to offer prayers on #Onam pic.twitter.com/jXENUZjdda  ANI (@ANI) August 29, 2023

I hope this article has given you a better understanding of the Onam festival. If you have the opportunity to celebrate Onam, I encourage you to do so. It is a truly special and unique festival that is sure to leave you with lasting memories.

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Story first published: Tuesday, August 29, 2023, 11:16 [IST]
Onam 2023: Droupadi Mumru, PM Modi, Kerala CM And Leaders Extend Greetings

India

oi-Madhuri Adnal

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, President Droupadi Mumru, Kerala's chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan, Governor Arif Mohammed Khan, CPI(M) General Secretary Sitaram Yechury, and several other leaders extended their warm greetings on Tuesday for the 10-day Onam festival. In their messages, these leaders encouraged people to spread the joy of Kerala's harvest festival and conveyed their wishes for prosperity.

PM Modi tweeted on X (formerly known as Twitter), "Onam greetings to everyone! May your lives be showered with good health, unparalleled joy and immense prosperity. Over the last many years, Onam has become a global festival and it beautifully showcases the vibrant culture of Kerala."

President Murmu greeted the citizens and said, "On this auspicious occasion we express our gratitude to Mother nature for the countless bounties. May this harvest festival usher in prosperity and the spirit of harmony among all."

Vijayan remarked that Onam embodies timeless values of equality and fraternity, which provide momentum for the ongoing struggle to recreate conditions of peace and prosperity. Governor Khan urged individuals to collectively spread the melody, charm, and radiance of Onam worldwide, as it represents Kerala's unique message of love, equality, and harmony.

Yechury expressed his best wishes, aiming to strengthen efforts towards establishing an equitable society based on liberty, equality, and fraternity. He highlighted that Onam symbolizes the triumph over opposing forces.

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Tamil Nadu's Chief Minister MK Stalin saw the festival as an opportunity to restore an India characterized by equality, brotherhood, and growth. He extended heartfelt wishes for Onam, acknowledging it as a festival celebrated with enthusiasm and unity by the people of Kerala. He also noted that Onam is not merely a harvest festival but a symbolic welcome to Maveli, the Dravidian King.

Even the Congress party tweeted on the occasion, saying, "Warm greetings to our brothers and sisters of Kerala on the auspicious occasion of Onam. May this festival bring happiness and abundance to all."

Starting on August 20, the festival continues with grandeur for ten days. Kerala's theme for this year's celebration is 'Onam, Oru Eenam' (Onam, the symphony of harmony). Captivating visuals showcase Thiruvananthapuram adorned with lights and people donning vibrant attire, creating an atmosphere of festivity.

Rooted in popular mythology, the festival's origins are traced back to the time when the southern state was ruled by the generous Asura (demon) king, 'Mahabali'. Under his reign, equality prevailed, and deceit and theft were unheard of. However, the envy of the Gods led to his removal to the netherworld with the assistance of Lord Vishnu. As per legend, Mahabali was permitted to return every year on Thiruvonam day-the tenth day of the festival-after being dethroned. Since then, his homecoming has been celebrated through the festival of Onam.

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Story first published: Tuesday, August 29, 2023, 10:12 [IST]
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Onam 2023: Schools, Colleges, Banks Closed In Kerala; 4 Districts In TN Declare Local Holiday

India

oi-Madhuri Adnal

Schools, colleges, and banks in Kerala will remain closed until August 30, as the state celebrates the Onam festival. The government has declared a public holiday on August 29 and 30.

Onam is the biggest festival in Kerala and is celebrated with great pomp and gaiety. The festival marks the homecoming of King Mahabali, who is said to have ruled Kerala with justice and prosperity.

During the Onam festival, people clean their homes and decorate them with flowers and rangolis. They also buy new clothes and jewelry to wear for the festival.

The highlight of the Onam festival is the feast, which typically includes Onam Sadhya, a traditional meal of 26 dishes. Onam Sadhya is a vegetarian meal that is made with a variety of vegetables, rice, and lentils. It is also served with a variety of pickles, chutneys, and sauces. The feast is usually eaten on a banana leaf.

In addition to feasting, people also enjoy other cultural activities such as boat races, dance performances, and music concerts. Onam is a time for families to come together and celebrate their culture and heritage.

Onam 2023 Celebrated With Much Pomp And Gaiety Across The World

Chennai has also declared a local holiday on Monday, August 29, to mark the Onam festival. All government offices, schools, and colleges will be closed on that day. To compensate for the holiday, September 2 will be a working day. Not just Chennai, local holidays have been declared in Coimbatore, Kanniyakumari and Tiruppur as well.

The Onam festival is a major event in Kerala and is celebrated by people of all faiths. It is a time for people to come together to celebrate the harvest and to pray for peace and prosperity.

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Story first published: Tuesday, August 29, 2023, 11:28 [IST]
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Rahul Gandhi To Visit Europe In September

India

oi-PTI

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi is likely to visit Europe next month and meet European Commission lawmakers in Belgium besides addressing students at a university in Paris.

He is also likely to address the Indian diaspora at an event in Oslo in early September, sources said.

Notably, his visits abroad will come at a time when the crucial G20 Summit will be held from September 9 to 10 in the national capital. India currently holds the G20 presidency. The sources said the Gandhi scion is likely to leave for Paris in the first week of September for a five-day tour.

He will attend a meeting with European Union members in Brussels on September 7.

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According to the sources, the former Congress chief will address students at a university in Paris on September 8 and deliver a lecture there. He is also slated to participate in a meeting of the Labour Union of France in Paris on September 9.

Thereafter, the sources said Gandhi is slated to visit Norway where he will address the Indian diaspora event on September 10.

Gandhi will meet members of the diaspora and may also hold a press conference, they added.

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Story first published: Tuesday, August 29, 2023, 10:26 [IST]
* During the 14th China-Northeast Asia Expo, 99 projects were inked with investments of 84.48 billion yuan.

* Northeast Asia is one of the world's most dynamic regions for development.

* Several offline exhibitions targeting neighboring countries have been organized in China to drive the revitalization and growth of both the domestic and global economies.

CHANGCHUN, Aug. 28 (Xinhua) -- James Woo, a businessman from the Republic of Korea (ROK), is gearing up to launch a ginseng venture in the city of Changchun of Jilin Province, a leading production area for the renowned medicinal herb in northeast China.

During the 14th China-Northeast Asia Expo, which concluded on Sunday in Changchun, he achieved significant progress in terms of business cooperation with various Chinese merchants.

"This (China-Northeast Asia Expo) is a convenient platform to gain cutting-edge information and seek opportunities for collaboration," said Woo, who participated in the expo for the fifth time.

A visitor watches a car displayed by FAW Hongqi during the 14th China-Northeast Asia Expo in Changchun, northeast China's Jilin Province, Aug. 23, 2023. (Xinhua/Zhang Nan)

The five-day event saw the offline participation of over 20,000 merchants from 123 countries and regions. Cosmetic items from the ROK, electronic goods from Japan, snacks from Russia and cashmere from Mongolia proved popular with consumers.

Changchun-based Jetty Automotive Technology Co., Ltd., which took part in the expo for the first time, showcased a lightweight aluminum wiring harness designed for new energy vehicles, which helps to reduce the overall vehicle wiring weight by 30 percent.

Dong Yuting, the company's business manager, said they hope to seize the opportunity to find more partners for cooperation.

The China-Northeast Asia Expo has become a significant platform for building consensus and forging economic and trade cooperation between China and its neighboring countries, and even beyond.

Since its inception in 2005, the expo has witnessed the signing of more than 3,000 cooperation projects with a total investment value exceeding 2 trillion yuan (about 275 billion U.S. dollars). During its latest edition, 99 projects were inked with investments of 84.48 billion yuan.

A Russian exhibitor introduces products to visitors during the 14th China-Northeast Asia Expo in Changchun, northeast China's Jilin Province, Aug. 23, 2023. (Xinhua/Zhang Nan)

Northeast Asia, consisting of China, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, Japan, the ROK, Mongolia and Russia, is one of the world's most dynamic regions for development.

In 2022, the trade volume between China and five other countries in the region totaled 923.2 billion U.S. dollars, up 3.8 percent year on year, according to Vice Minister of Commerce Li Fei.

Wu Hao, head of Jilin University's Northeast Asian Studies College, said that accompanied by expanding trade and investment and enhanced connectivity, the collaboration between China and other Northeast Asian countries is deepening in new areas, such as technological innovation, the low-carbon economy and the ice-and-snow industry.

"There is ample room and enormous potential for mutually beneficial cooperation between enterprises," Wu said.

This aerial photo taken on Aug. 7, 2023 shows a view of Kunming Dianchi International Convention and Exhibition Center, venue for the seventh China-South Asia Expo in Kunming, southwest China's Yunnan Province. (Xinhua/Chen Xinbo)

In the face of the challenges of a post-pandemic global landscape, several offline exhibitions targeting neighboring countries have been organized in China this year, as part of its efforts to drive the revitalization and growth of both the domestic and global economies.

On Aug. 20, the China-South Asia Expo concluded in Kunming, the capital of southwest China's Yunnan Province. It was the first time the expo had fully returned to an offline format since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.

More than 340 investment projects with a total investment of 412.65 billion yuan were signed during the event.

Over the past 10 years, the expo has witnessed closer ties between China and South Asia, with the trade volume between China and South Asian countries doubling to 197.4 billion U.S. dollars last year.

An exhibitor presents a walking aid product at the seventh China-South Asia Expo in Kunming, southwest China's Yunnan Province, Aug. 16, 2023. (Xinhua/Chen Xinbo)

China is accelerating the transformation into a trader of quality, placing greater emphasis on attracting foreign investment, Li Fei said.

Li added that the country is deepening bilateral and multilateral economic and trade cooperation, advancing high-quality Belt and Road cooperation, and actively leveraging the role of various exhibitions, including the China-Northeast Asia Expo, to create more open platform mechanisms.

China saw a rapid increase in newly established foreign-invested enterprises. Some 24,000 new foreign firms established themselves in China in the first half of the year, marking a 35.7 percent rise year on year.

Editor: WXL
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Superstar Rajinikanth's Surprise Stop: A Day To Remember At Bengaluru Bus Depot

India

oi-Madhuri Adnal

Superstar Rajinikanth pleasantly surprised the staff at a bus depot in Bengaluru on Tuesday, revisiting his humble beginnings as a bus conductor. During his impromptu visit to the Bengaluru Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) depot, he interacted with drivers, conductors, and helpers, even taking photographs with them.

Rajinikanth, renowned for his contribution to over 160 films, including his recent release 'Jailer,' which has raked in a staggering Rs 600 crore worldwide, was born in Bengaluru. Before his cinematic journey, he pursued various odd jobs, eventually landing a role as a bus conductor with the transport corporation.

Even in those early days, Rajinikanth's innate showmanship shone through. Passengers on his buses were often treated to his entertaining antics, leading some to suggest that he venture into acting. His unique style of issuing tickets and returning change garnered attention, and he became a favorite among passengers who would wait for his bus.

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Transitioning to the world of cinema, Rajinikanth ventured into Kannada stage plays, gaining recognition for his portrayal of the villainous Duryodhan in a Mahabharata adaptation. His break came when director K Balachander noticed his talent during a stage performance and advised him to learn Tamil. Subsequently, Rajinikanth's first cinematic role arrived in the 1975 Tamil movie "Apoorva Raagangal."

Acknowledging his pivotal influence, Rajinikanth credited Raj Bahadur, a former bus driver, for recognizing his acting potential during his time as a bus conductor. In his 2021 Dadasaheb Phalke Award acceptance speech, Rajinikanth expressed gratitude to Bahadur for encouraging him to explore acting, ultimately leading him to join the Madras Film Institute for formal training.

The unexpected visit to the BMTC depot rekindled memories of Rajinikanth's journey from a bus conductor to a cinematic legend, exemplifying his deep-rooted connection to Bengaluru and the public who once witnessed his early performances onboard their buses.

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Story first published: Tuesday, August 29, 2023, 15:56 [IST]
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Bavarian deputy premier Hubert Aiwanger has been accused of authoring an antisemitic leaflet in his school days. He has been called to answer further questions after a meeting with Bavarian Premier Markus Soder.
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On 21^st of April, 2015, in the inaugural ceremony of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), President Xi Jinping addressed the parliament of Pakistan. During his address, he signified the nature of relationship between China and Pakistan with a Chinese saying:



Strong wind reveals the strength of grass, and genuine...
Chinese commerce minister holds talks with U.S. counterpart

Xinhua) 08:17, August 29, 2023

BEIJING, Aug. 28 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Minister of Commerce Wang Wentao held talks with visiting U.S. Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo on Monday in Beijing, according to a statement of China's Ministry of Commerce released on Monday.

The two sides engaged in rational, candid and constructive communication regarding the implementation of the consensus reached by the two heads of state at their meeting in Bali, Indonesia, focusing on China-U.S. economic and trade relations, as well as economic and trade issues of common concern, said the statement.

Economic and trade relations are the cornerstone of China-U.S. relations, Wang said, adding that trade between the two countries is important for their respective economies and the global economy.

China is willing to work together with the United States to create a favorable policy environment for cooperation between the business sectors of both countries and to promote bilateral trade and investment while upholding principles of mutual respect, peaceful coexistence and win-win cooperation, Wang said.

Wang has raised serious concerns about issues including the U.S. Section 301 tariffs on Chinese goods, its semiconductor policies, restrictions of two-way investment, discriminatory subsidies, and sanctions on Chinese enterprises.

He noted that the generalization of the concept of national security is not conducive to normal economic and trade exchanges, and unilateral and protectionist measures run counter to market rules and the principle of fair competition, and will only harm the security and stability of the global industrial and supply chains.

Noting that the United States has repeatedly stated that it does not seek decoupling with China, Wang said the U.S. side should match its words with actions.

While acknowledging the importance of conducting open and productive dialogues between China and the United States in the field of economy and trade, Wang and Raimondo announced the establishment of new communication channels between China's Ministry of Commerce and the U.S. Department of Commerce, according to the statement.

A working group has been set up, composed of deputy ministerial and bureau-level government officials from both China and the United States, along with representatives from the business sector, to seek solutions to specific business issues, said the statement. The working group will hold deputy ministerial-level meetings twice a year.

Wang and Raimondo agreed to maintain regular communication, meeting at least once a year, said the statement.

Additionally, the two sides have initiated an export control information exchange mechanism, which serves as a mechanism for explaining their respective export control systems and improving communication. Both sides will exchange information on export control in accordance with their respective laws, according to the statement.

The two sides also discussed and agreed that experts from both countries will engage in technical consultations on the protection of trade secrets and confidential business information during the process of enhancing administrative licensing, the statement added.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
Press Release

August 29, 2023 Senator Mark Villar thanks President Bongbong Marcos for signing One Town, One Product bill into law According to Senator Mark A. Villar, the primary sponsor and author of the One Town, One Product (OTOP) bill in the Senate, President Bongbong Marcos officially signed the OTOP bill into law last week, 24 August 2023. "Gusto po natin ipaalam sa ating mga kababayan lalo na sa mga local MSMEs and consumers na batas na po ang One Town, One Product. Ito po ay makakatulong sa pagbibigay ng assistance sa ating mga MSMEs and at the same time maippromote pa ang mga produktong ipinagmamalaki ng Pilipinas," Villar emphasized. The law authorizes the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) to establish the OTOP Philippines Trustmark, an assurance that the products under the program represent the country's best. The OTOP Philippines Trustmark shall signify that the business and products have been marked as excellent in terms of quality, design, value, and marketability. "Covered po halos lahat ng produkto sa OTOP Philippines Program, including local delicacies, agricultural-based products, artisanal crafts, and skills-based services like hilot, among others," Villar explained. The OTOP law is envisioned to assist rural communities in growing the local economy and promote the convergence of initiatives from local government units (LGUs), national government agencies, and the private sector in developing and promoting Philippine products. The regional and provincial offices of the DTI shall, in cooperation with the concerned LGUs, determine the beneficiaries of the OTOP Program based on the qualifications and standards in place. Beneficiaries will be provided a comprehensive package of assistance covering areas of product development, product design, packaging and labeling assistance, technology updating, and product enhancement. On the other hand, the DTI and the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) will be in charge of providing capacity building through training opportunities, Standards and Market Compliance and Market Access and Product Promotion. "The law also creates the OTOP Philippines Hubs, which will be strategically located in ports of entry such as airports, seaports, bus terminals, high-trathic retail outlets like malls, tourist destinations, and other consumer-frequented locations. All LGUs shall also establish their own LGU OTOP Hub in any location that has high foot traffic preferably in the city or municipal hall," Villar said. "We also thank President Bongbong for his unwavering support to our local MSMEs and the promotion of Philippine products," Villar added.
This photo taken on Aug. 27, 2023 shows an interior view of the Golestan Palace in Tehran, Iran. Golestan Palace is one of the oldest complexes in Tehran, originally built during the Safavid dynasty in the historic walled city. Following extensions and additions, the site received its most characteristic features in the 19th century, when the palace complex was selected as the royal residence and seat of power by the Qajar ruling family. (Xinhua/Shadati)

This photo taken on Aug. 27, 2023 shows an interior view of the Golestan Palace in Tehran, Iran. Golestan Palace is one of the oldest complexes in Tehran, originally built during the Safavid dynasty in the historic walled city. Following extensions and additions, the site received its most characteristic features in the 19th century, when the palace complex was selected as the royal residence and seat of power by the Qajar ruling family. (Xinhua/Shadati)

Tourists visit the Golestan Palace in Tehran, Iran, on Aug. 27, 2023. Golestan Palace is one of the oldest complexes in Tehran, originally built during the Safavid dynasty in the historic walled city. Following extensions and additions, the site received its most characteristic features in the 19th century, when the palace complex was selected as the royal residence and seat of power by the Qajar ruling family. (Xinhua/Shadati)

A tourist poses for photos at the Golestan Palace in Tehran, Iran, on Aug. 27, 2023. Golestan Palace is one of the oldest complexes in Tehran, originally built during the Safavid dynasty in the historic walled city. Following extensions and additions, the site received its most characteristic features in the 19th century, when the palace complex was selected as the royal residence and seat of power by the Qajar ruling family. (Xinhua/Shadati)

This photo taken on Aug. 27, 2023 shows an exterior view of the Golestan Palace in Tehran, Iran. Golestan Palace is one of the oldest complexes in Tehran, originally built during the Safavid dynasty in the historic walled city. Following extensions and additions, the site received its most characteristic features in the 19th century, when the palace complex was selected as the royal residence and seat of power by the Qajar ruling family. (Xinhua/Shadati)

Tourists pose for photos at the Golestan Palace in Tehran, Iran, on Aug. 27, 2023. Golestan Palace is one of the oldest complexes in Tehran, originally built during the Safavid dynasty in the historic walled city. Following extensions and additions, the site received its most characteristic features in the 19th century, when the palace complex was selected as the royal residence and seat of power by the Qajar ruling family. (Xinhua/Shadati)

This photo taken on Aug. 27, 2023 shows an interior view of the Golestan Palace in Tehran, Iran. Golestan Palace is one of the oldest complexes in Tehran, originally built during the Safavid dynasty in the historic walled city. Following extensions and additions, the site received its most characteristic features in the 19th century, when the palace complex was selected as the royal residence and seat of power by the Qajar ruling family. (Xinhua/Shadati)

This photo taken on Aug. 27, 2023 shows an exterior view of the Golestan Palace in Tehran, Iran. Golestan Palace is one of the oldest complexes in Tehran, originally built during the Safavid dynasty in the historic walled city. Following extensions and additions, the site received its most characteristic features in the 19th century, when the palace complex was selected as the royal residence and seat of power by the Qajar ruling family. (Xinhua/Shadati)

This photo taken on Aug. 27, 2023 shows an interior view of the Golestan Palace in Tehran, Iran. Golestan Palace is one of the oldest complexes in Tehran, originally built during the Safavid dynasty in the historic walled city. Following extensions and additions, the site received its most characteristic features in the 19th century, when the palace complex was selected as the royal residence and seat of power by the Qajar ruling family. (Xinhua/Shadati)

A tourist poses for photos at the Golestan Palace in Tehran, Iran, on Aug. 27, 2023. Golestan Palace is one of the oldest complexes in Tehran, originally built during the Safavid dynasty in the historic walled city. Following extensions and additions, the site received its most characteristic features in the 19th century, when the palace complex was selected as the royal residence and seat of power by the Qajar ruling family. (Xinhua/Shadati)

Tourists visit the Golestan Palace in Tehran, Iran, on Aug. 27, 2023. Golestan Palace is one of the oldest complexes in Tehran, originally built during the Safavid dynasty in the historic walled city. Following extensions and additions, the site received its most characteristic features in the 19th century, when the palace complex was selected as the royal residence and seat of power by the Qajar ruling family. (Xinhua/Shadati)

A tourist poses for photos at the Golestan Palace in Tehran, Iran, on Aug. 27, 2023. Golestan Palace is one of the oldest complexes in Tehran, originally built during the Safavid dynasty in the historic walled city. Following extensions and additions, the site received its most characteristic features in the 19th century, when the palace complex was selected as the royal residence and seat of power by the Qajar ruling family. (Xinhua/Shadati)

Tourists visit the Golestan Palace in Tehran, Iran, on Aug. 27, 2023. Golestan Palace is one of the oldest complexes in Tehran, originally built during the Safavid dynasty in the historic walled city. Following extensions and additions, the site received its most characteristic features in the 19th century, when the palace complex was selected as the royal residence and seat of power by the Qajar ruling family. (Xinhua/Shadati)

This photo taken on Aug. 27, 2023 shows an interior view of the Golestan Palace in Tehran, Iran. Golestan Palace is one of the oldest complexes in Tehran, originally built during the Safavid dynasty in the historic walled city. Following extensions and additions, the site received its most characteristic features in the 19th century, when the palace complex was selected as the royal residence and seat of power by the Qajar ruling family. (Xinhua/Shadati)

Tourists visit the Golestan Palace in Tehran, Iran, on Aug. 27, 2023. Golestan Palace is one of the oldest complexes in Tehran, originally built during the Safavid dynasty in the historic walled city. Following extensions and additions, the site received its most characteristic features in the 19th century, when the palace complex was selected as the royal residence and seat of power by the Qajar ruling family. (Xinhua/Shadati)

Tourists visit the Golestan Palace in Tehran, Iran, on Aug. 27, 2023. Golestan Palace is one of the oldest complexes in Tehran, originally built during the Safavid dynasty in the historic walled city. Following extensions and additions, the site received its most characteristic features in the 19th century, when the palace complex was selected as the royal residence and seat of power by the Qajar ruling family. (Xinhua/Shadati)

Tourists visit the Golestan Palace in Tehran, Iran, on Aug. 27, 2023. Golestan Palace is one of the oldest complexes in Tehran, originally built during the Safavid dynasty in the historic walled city. Following extensions and additions, the site received its most characteristic features in the 19th century, when the palace complex was selected as the royal residence and seat of power by the Qajar ruling family. (Xinhua/Shadati)

This photo taken on Aug. 27, 2023 shows an interior view of the Golestan Palace in Tehran, Iran. Golestan Palace is one of the oldest complexes in Tehran, originally built during the Safavid dynasty in the historic walled city. Following extensions and additions, the site received its most characteristic features in the 19th century, when the palace complex was selected as the royal residence and seat of power by the Qajar ruling family. (Xinhua/Shadati)

Tourists visit the Golestan Palace in Tehran, Iran, on Aug. 27, 2023. Golestan Palace is one of the oldest complexes in Tehran, originally built during the Safavid dynasty in the historic walled city. Following extensions and additions, the site received its most characteristic features in the 19th century, when the palace complex was selected as the royal residence and seat of power by the Qajar ruling family. (Xinhua/Shadati)

This photo taken on Aug. 27, 2023 shows an interior view of the Golestan Palace in Tehran, Iran. Golestan Palace is one of the oldest complexes in Tehran, originally built during the Safavid dynasty in the historic walled city. Following extensions and additions, the site received its most characteristic features in the 19th century, when the palace complex was selected as the royal residence and seat of power by the Qajar ruling family. (Xinhua/Shadati)

This photo taken on Aug. 27, 2023 shows a statue at the Golestan Palace in Tehran, Iran. Golestan Palace is one of the oldest complexes in Tehran, originally built during the Safavid dynasty in the historic walled city. Following extensions and additions, the site received its most characteristic features in the 19th century, when the palace complex was selected as the royal residence and seat of power by the Qajar ruling family. (Xinhua/Shadati)

This photo taken on Aug. 27, 2023 shows a facade view of the Golestan Palace in Tehran, Iran. Golestan Palace is one of the oldest complexes in Tehran, originally built during the Safavid dynasty in the historic walled city. Following extensions and additions, the site received its most characteristic features in the 19th century, when the palace complex was selected as the royal residence and seat of power by the Qajar ruling family. (Xinhua/Shadati)

Tourists visit the Golestan Palace in Tehran, Iran, on Aug. 27, 2023. Golestan Palace is one of the oldest complexes in Tehran, originally built during the Safavid dynasty in the historic walled city. Following extensions and additions, the site received its most characteristic features in the 19th century, when the palace complex was selected as the royal residence and seat of power by the Qajar ruling family. (Xinhua/Shadati)

Editor: JYZ
Steven Sahiounie, journalist and political commentator

The current government ruling Israel is the most far-right Jewish extremist in history. Senior members in power have been asking for the forced deportation of Palestinians, in a frightening echo of the Nakba of 1948, when three-fourths of the Palestinian population was expelled in a massive ethnic cleansing while the US and western nations stood by in silent complicity.

The Israeli Defense Forces have repeatedly attacked refugee camps in the West Bank, especially Jenin. Meanwhile, the Jewish citizens of Israel have been in the street protesting their own issues, which have nothing to do with the apartheid state of Israel, and the human rights abuses and war crimes committed almost daily by the Israeli government against the Palestinians held without any form of human rights or justice.

The UN and many members of the international community have voiced their support of the Palestinian cause and the right to resist occupation, and yet there is no end in sight, or even a peace plan to discuss.

In an effort to gain some insight into the present situation in the Occupied Territories of Palestine, Steven Sahiounie of MidEastDiscourse interviewed Fra Hughes.

Hughes' book, 'My Walk With Palestine', catalogues the Palestinian solidarity work that he and others have been involved in since 2010, when he took a trip to Gaza. Hughes is a Belfast native, and felt similarities between Northern Ireland and Palestine. The siege-busting convoy to Gaza in 2010 is only really the beginning of Fra's story, and his work has seen him visit Egypt, Jordan and Syria.

#1. Steven Sahiounie (SS): The Saudi envoy to Jordan, Nayef Al-Sudairi, has been appointed to serve as the nonresident ambassador to the State of Palestine. In your view, what is the significance of the Crown Prince Mohammed bin-Salman's choosing to make this important appointment at the time?

Fra Hughes (FH): It's difficult to know for sure. While obviously a very important step, is it too little too late? What power does he have, what influence can he bring to bear on the continued illegal occupation of the West Bank Jerusalem? The ongoing ethnic cleansing of the indigenous Palestinian population with the continued, indeed accelerated, construction of more illegal Jewish settlements, and the ongoing siege of Gaza and the apparent shoot-to-kill policy carried out on behalf of the Israeli government and by extension Israeli society who elected it. At this stage it is a symbolic appointment, but taken together with the Saudi-Iran rapprochement, the potential ending of the war in Yemen and Syria's inclusion into the Arab league, it certainly has America the EU and Israel concerned.

#2. SS: President Sisi of Egypt hosted King Abdullah II of Jordan and President Abbas of Palestine yesterday in a meeting to discuss the need to end the Israeli occupation of Palestine. In your opinion, is there international consensus on getting back to peace negotiations?

FH: There will never be real peace negotiations. The Israeli apartheid government talks peace as a stalling tactic to buy time while it attempts to absorb all of Palestine under its racist control.

If Sisi is real, he should open the Gazan border fully, and allow fuel, building equipment and medicine into Gaza.

Egypt must end the pivotal role it plays in forcing Palestinians to live under a blanket of fear, disease and poverty.

Abbas is unelected and in my opinion he is a collaborator with the occupation.

Egypt and Saudi Arabia wish to join BRICS and as they move away from the influence and control of the western hegemonic powers perhaps we are witnessing a renaissance of rapport with Russia, and by extension China, via the belt and road initiative, and a new energy cartel to rival OPEC.

#3. SS: The Palestinian resistance groups in Jenin have been repeatedly attacked by Israeli Defense Forces. After the massive destruction in Jenin, can you explain the status of Jenin now, and is there any help being offered?

FH: The Israelis achieved their short-term goals: not the extermination of the Resistance fighters, but the devastation of homes, centres of employment, and the destruction of the infrastructure leaving those living in Jenin in dire need of support from the international community. Help which I believe will not be forthcoming unless there are political strings attached.

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Changes that took place in the world after February 24, 2022, resulted in a sharp decline in the standard of living in the European countries. This decline is not the consequence of the armed conflict itself, but of the actions of the leaders, who put their political image above economic feasibility.

It turned out that introduction of anti-Russian sanctions hurt ordinary people, middle and low classes of the European society. Apparently, the percentage of people who will be hit by this sanctions policy will increase.

If now the authorities of Western countries, primarily the Baltics, can still deceive people blaming Russia for everything, soon it will become clear that those who impose these sanctions are to blame. Moreover, even the Western media has already admitted that sanctions did not hit Russia, they did not bring the result that was planned, but they hit the Europeans. Considering that things are not going well for the European Union, it turns out that the authorities of these countries are now working against their population.

The worst time is coming. Anti-Russian sanctions have lead to Russia's withdrawal from the grain deal. A direct consequence will be the inevitable direct consequence will be the inevitable famine in Africa. The situation will become even worse for Europe and the Baltic countries when Africans flee to Europe. Immigrants from countries that depended on grain supplies from Ukraine and Russia will run away from hunger to Europe and the Europeans will have to accept them. For the Baltic States the immigrants will be a complete disaster. In order to cope with the situation the authorities should redirect money from the budget to this issue and leave residents without state support in such spheres as medical care, education, farming and so on.
"All those individuals and organizations who have opposed NVMI are a matter of public record"



- NVMI "Superintendent" Mark Ryan

For weeks, the Los Angeles County Office of Education (LACOE) has been warning the North Valley Military Institute (NVMI) that it did not have the Certificate of Occupancy it needed to operate at the facility it leased in Van Nuys. Instead of recognizing its failure and informing its families that NVMI would not be opening for the new school year, the leadership at the charter publicly insisted that it had all the required permits. It also obstinately refused to meet with city officials to get their input on how to negotiate the permitting process. This gave LACOE no other choice but to issue (another) Notice of Violation threatening revocation of the charter if the outlined conditions are not rectified by August 30, 2023.

According to a letter sent to the "NVMI Hawks Family" by NVMI's "Superintendent," Mark Ryan, when he finally spoke with city officials on August 17, 2023, they "confirmed that [the school] would be required to get a Conditional Use Permit... and that process (even when expedited) would take at least nine months." In this same letter, Ryan rallied against "the evil people and organizations who have orchestrated the closure of NVMI," claiming that their rhetoric "frightened some politicians" into opposing NVMI." However, it was not "anti-charter and anti-military forces" that created NVMI's violations but the incompetence of their leadership team. It is not "evil" to enforce the law, especially when dealing with rules that are meant to ensure that students attend school where safety is a priority (1).

Ryan's angry rhetoric continued with the distribution of the agenda for a special meeting of NVMI's board of trustees held to "consider a resolution to permanently or temporarily close the school". Attempting again to deflect from his own failures, Ryan blamed "the evil people and forces" who "have won this particular battle". Instead of recognizing military culture's responsibility to follow the rule of law, Ryan pledged that "the war with the anti-charter and anti-military factions of our society is not yet over".

Despite numerous warnings from LACOE about not complying with the Brown Act, the meeting held on Saturday included multiple violations of California's open-meeting law. The most serious was the inclusion of board members whose terms expired on June 30, 2023. The chair also did not ensure that the public had access to all of the meeting sites listed on the agenda or ask for public comment before the vote was taken on the agenda item.

Since students and staff had already been informed that the school would not be opening for the current school year, NVMI Trustees could have used their vote to give some closure to the community. Instead, they continued to provide false hope by choosing to pursue a "suspension of operations" from the LACOE Board. Under this proposed scenario, the county would suspend efforts to revoke the charter while the school pursued the permit application process with the City of Los Angeles.

The Trustees voted to pursue this concept of suspending operations without any discussion of how this would affect the budget that has already been submitted to the county. The school has already received its first payment from the state for the new school year and will have to pay this back since they will not have any students. Unfortunately, they have already spent these funds to pay for last year's expenses. The school has a balloon payment of $1,361,334 due to Mission Valley Bank on September 30, 2023. Lease payments, storage fees, and security will continue for a fleet of passenger vans, even if there are no longer any students to transport. The $1.7 million payment the school anticipates receiving from the Employee Retention Credit program (ERC) is under review by the IRS and the $1.3 million ERC already received may need to be repaid. Simply put, NVMI does not have the ability to survive another year.

While the NVMI Board would like to pretend that the only thing keeping them from opening is the lack of occupancy permits, the LACOE staff has detailed an extensive list of the charter school's operational failures, including:

Finding 1: Material Violations of the Conditions, Standards, or Procedures Set Forth in the Charter

The late submission of the material revision violates NVMI's charter and is inconsistent with the law as it proposes to operate before the 60-day timeline, which does not allow the chartering authority time to properly review and act upon the material revision.

Finding 2: NVMI failed to meet or pursue any of the pupil outcomes identified in the charter.

In reviewing academic outcomes... NVMI continues to underperform in almost every comparison.



Of the 12 MPOs with publicly verifiable data, the school is only meeting three outcomes.



NVMI's plan to improve fails to have specificity, lacks timeliness, and is inadequate.

Finding 3: NVMI failed to meet generally accepted accounting principles, or engaged in fiscal mismanagement.

Of the nine possible indicators of fiscal mismanagement, NVMI has engaged in at least six:



Unreliable or insufficient budget development, monitoring, or updates.





Inadequate cash management.





Continuing deficit spending.





Inadequate fund balance and reserve for economic uncertainty.





Ineffective internal controls and fraud prevention.





Inattention to debt and risk management



Numerous late submissions of financial reports that contained material errors.



Understated payroll expenses by $1 million in its Adopted Budget.



NVMI's structural deficits were further masked by overstated revenues and understated expenses.



Throughout 2022-23, NVMI maintained less than 17 days of operating cash balances, which included borrowed funds from Mission Valley Bank.



As of June 30, 2023, NVMI had a combined cash balance of only $2,936, or less than one day of operating expenses.



Due to its continuing cash deficiencies, NVMI was unable to meet its financial obligations.



The fiduciary oversight bestowed on the NVMI Board lacks consistent internal controls



Fiscal policies that are not followed: The most current fiscal policies include the use of a Chief Financial Officer or CFO, yet the school no longer employs the Chief Financial Officer.





A Finance Committee that is inconsistent and/or non-existing: The NVMI Finance Committee does not meet consistently and has not met since January 2023.





Leadership was unaware when a payment to CalSTRS was missed.

Finding 4: NVMI violated the law.

By failing to complete the Local Control and Accountability Plan (LCAP), NVMI has violated EC 47605.5(a)



The school failed to submit a completed LCAP per EC 47606.5 for the 2023-24 school year. Most notably, the Budget Overview for Parents is missing.

None of these violations were discussed by NVMI's leadership during Saturday's meeting. Ignoring these issues will not make them go away. It will just add credence that allowing this school to continue in any capacity will not change the eventual outcome.



(Image by North Valley Military Institute) Details DMCA



(2) Mark Ryan and the Chairman of the Board of Trustees were asked for an explanation of how they complied with the Brown Act. As of publication, an answer had not been received.

Carl Petersen is a parent advocate for public education, particularly for students with special education needs, who serves as the Education Chair for the Northridge East Neighborhood Council. As a Green Party candidate in LAUSD's District 2 School Board race, he was endorsed by Network for Public Education (NPE) Action. Dr. Diane Ravitch has called him "a valiant fighter for public schools in Los Angeles." For links to his blogs, please visit www.ChangeTheLAUSD.com. Opinions are his own.
Intimidation! We see it everywhere in the U.S. today. We see it as people exhibit a willingness to indulge their prejudices and biases through violence and intimidation of those who do not fit their prescription of what an American should be. And there always are an abundance of guns. We see it with the proliferation of mass shootings. We see it in the actions of the police at times with certain segments of our society. And, most of all we hear it in the shrill voice of Donald Trump who uses his position as an ex-president to spew hate and incite violence against any who would oppose him. We saw what occurred at the Capital on January 6, 2021.

Remember, in politics, power is power. Once you have it you get to use it. As George W. Bush said, you get to be "the decider". How you got it becomes somewhat irrelevant. Trump has fine-tuned that idea. "You can't tell me what to do!" "If I don't agree with you, I will destroy you so I can keep power, so there!" Some would say, "Why would I want power if I couldn't abuse it?"

We see judges and jurors under threat. We see election workers under threat. We see legislators under threat. We see the or electoral process and the very foundations of our democracy under threat.

This is too much like the German brown shirts in the 1930s. An attempt by a leader to impose their belief system on the public by intimidation and under threat of violence. These are the tactics of tyrants.

This makes a mockery of our system of law and justice which is the very base of a civil democratic society. If the law can be flaunted or simply by-passed, then only solutions imposed from the top and justified with intimidation and violence will rule the day.

Once we release the old gods of violence and destruction, "red in tooth and claw", it is very difficult to find ways to confine them again.

How do we protect against intimidation and violence? Our governmental structures are not enough and are constricted by the rules and laws, or the simple inaction, of an ineffectual and mostly dysfunctional Congress and a complicit Supreme Court.

So, what do we do? The solution often comes down to citizens remembering what it means to be a citizen in a democracy. It means that you must pick up the responsibility of citizenship which is to act to defend that democracy. It is not someone else's responsibility"the courts, the government, the police"to keep the system functioning, it is ultimately up to the citizens who believe in democracy enough to stand up to defend it.

If you are unwilling to stand up to a bully, the bully will rule and put his minions in charge of your community. Collectively we must stand up to regain our society.

It is time for the formation of citizens groups available to protect those who are under threat or are being otherwise intimidated. To simply stand between the bullies and their target, not to confront them with violence, but to show that the community is there to support the victims and to prevent any kind of intimidation and/or violence.

Then the courts can take over to deal with those who carried out the threats or who incited the threats.

There is no reason for the courts to be slow about this. Just think how quickly justice is meted out when it is about blacks, or minorities, or immigrants, or Muslims; any who might pose a threat.

Time to "screw our courage to the sticking point" and act with the determination of American citizens who truly value our democracy and its processes.
World BEYOND War has just announced the four winners of its third-annual War Abolisher Awards. All are relatively unknown individuals or organizations working from different angles at the giant task of ridding the world of war.

Before explaining who they are, I'd like to offer a very brief explanation of why such awards are needed. It's not because Alfred Nobel got something wrong in creating the Nobel Peace Prize, but precisely because he got it right. Alfred Nobel's will left funding for a prize to be awarded to "the person who shall have done the most or the best work for fraternity between nations, for the abolition or reduction of standing armies and for the holding and promotion of peace congresses."

You couldn't pay most recent Nobel Peace Laureates to say they support the abolition or reduction of standing armies. Some of them are actual advocates for or participants in warmaking (such as the European Union). One of them (Barack Obama) gave a pro-war acceptance speech. Many of them have clearly been selected with a bias toward those already most famous or powerful rather than with the goal of raising up those who should become better known. For example, the prize was given in 2016 to the President of Colombia for reaching a peace agreement, but not to anyone he'd reached it with, much less to anyone who'd advocated peace in Colombia for many years.

Many Nobel Peace Laureates have done terrific work that had little or nothing directly to do with peace neither for nor against it. Examples include Kailash Satyarthi and Malala Yousafzai for promoting education, Liu Xiaobo for protesting in China, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change and Al Gore for opposing climate change, Muhammad Yunus and Grameen Bank for economic development, etc.

Alfred Nobel lived in an era when war abolition campaigns were more acceptable. His fellow antiwar, war-profiteer, philanthropist Andrew Carnegie established an Endowment for International Peace to work on eliminating war, as the most evil institution in existence. But once war had been eliminated, the Endowment was to determine what the next most evil institution was, and begin working to eliminate that. Instead, the Endowment long ago explicitly turned away from war abolition, joining the Nobel Committee in depriving the peace movement of much-needed resources.

World BEYOND War lacks the kind of resources such institutions can disburse. But it does have some ability to spread awareness of deserving awardees. The War Abolisher awardees are honored for their body of work directly supporting one or more of the three segments of World BEYOND War's strategy for reducing and eliminating war as outlined in the book A Global Security System, An Alternative to War. They are: Demilitarizing Security, Managing Conflict Without Violence, and Building a Culture of Peace. So, without further ado, here are the awardees of 2023.

David Bradbury is the creator of 28 documentary films that advance our understanding of war, peace, international relations, and peace activism. Bradbury's films have been broadcast around the world on the BBC, PBS, ZDF (Germany),and TF1-France, as well as ABC, SBS, and commercial television networks in Australia.

In Bradbury's latest documentary The Road to War (2023) Australian experts deplore the Albanese Government's commitment of hundreds of billions of dollars to new weaponry, nuclear propelled submarines, stealth bombers, and missiles, all aimed at China. The film shows why it is not in Australia's, or the world's, interests to be dragged into another U.S.-led war. This film draws on Bradbury's decades of experience and footage to highlight each argument with the record from history: of each U.S. war that Australia has joined in before, of each U.S. ally that the U.S. has sacrificed before, of what U.S. bombers now being given access to Australia have done to their victims before. While Australians were told the war on Vietnam was to prevent the Vietnamese from attacking Australia, the Vietnamese, after winning the war, have still never shown any sign of wanting to invade Australia. Neither has Australia's top trading partner, China. And yet the push for war with China recycles familiar propaganda, and we desperately need independent films like The Road to War to counter it.

Bradbury accepts his award in this video.

The Fundacion Mil Milenios de Paz is a nonprofit organization, based in Argentina, and founded in 1995. It has through 28 years of creativity and hard work helped to develop a culture of peace in Argentina, in Latin America, and around the world.

Mil Milenios has developed the position of Ambassador of Peace and has appointed more than 1,800 ambassadors, including such well-known individuals as Pope Francis. Mil Milenios successfully promoted the legal establishment in Argentina of the International Day of Peace every September 21st, and has worked with 30 city governments to establish them as Cities of Peace dedicated to promoting a culture of peace. Mil Milenios has advanced awareness of a peace flag and carried out a campaign that placed a thousand peace flags at a thousand schools. The foundation has also created a dictionary of peace that serves to guide the ways in which we use language everyday in service to a culture of peace rather than war.

For World BEYOND War, this work is a model that people around the world could benefit from studying and emulating. Representatives of Mil Milenios accept the award in this video.

Sultana Khaya is a Saharawi nonviolent human rights activist from Western Sahara, the former Spanish colony in North Africa. She has worked tirelessly for years amidst brutal and violent oppression carried out by the Moroccan occupation an occupation that too few people around the world know about.

At the hands of Moroccan occupation agents, Khaya has had her eye bludgeoned out of its socket, has been hit in the head with rocks, has been injected with unknown substances, raped, beaten, and held under house arrest where she was terrorized for over 500 Days with her sister and mother. Surrounded by the Moroccan occupation forces, Khaya did not go silent. She staged protests on the roof of her house. She invited witnesses from around the world, snuck them into her house, and together with them spoke to the world's media and anyone who would listen. Khaya accepts her award in this video.

Wage Peace Australia accurately describes its approach: "We jump on tanks, blockade weapons factories, occupy arms dealers' offices and reclaim military bases as well as engaging in public discourse and other more conventional campaign methods."

Wage Peace Australia's campaign to disrupt the largest weapons bazaar in Australia, the Land Forces International Land Defence Exposition, has been so successful that the arms fair will no longer return to Brisbane. It will, of course, likely be held in a different city, but if people learn from the nonviolent, educational, disruptive activism used in Brisbane, then this arms fair and every other one could be chased out of every location on the planet, leaving those whom Wage Peace Australia refers to as "Harms Dealers" nowhere to do their harming. Wage Peace Australia accepts its award in this video.

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This article originally appeared at TomDispatch.com. To receive TomDispatch in your inbox three times a week, click here.

The old anti-Vietnam War song that began, "War, what Is It good for? Absolutely nothing!" couldn't be more on the mark these days. Just imagine that you live on a planet where the truest "war" may be the one we're waging against nature and that nature is increasingly waging on us. That "war" could, in the end, simply broil us all.

This summer, the war in Ukraine has finally started to take a backseat to endless headlines about heat waves, fires, floods, and record extreme weather of more or less every sort. As we broil and sweat, as communities are burned down or flooded out, who even notices the latest casualty figures from that other war? Yes, the New York Times recently reported that, based on the estimates of American officials, an almost unimaginable 500,000 Ukrainians and Russians have already been killed or wounded in that conflict which, despite recent lame peace efforts, shows not the faintest sign of resolving itself any time soon.

In fact, escalation continues to be the rule of the" well, under the circumstances, let's not say "game." Russian bombardments of Ukrainian ports and grain storage facilities have worsened recently, while the Ukrainians have begun using god save us all American cluster bombs in quantity on the front lines of the war. (The Russians had already been doing so.) And the latest news is that the Biden administration has once again (as with those cluster munitions and before them Abrams tanks, among other weapons systems) decided to up the ante on the Ukrainian side by allowing Denmark and the Netherlands to provide that country with F-16 fighter planes. And so it seems to go" and go and go and go some more.

As TomDispatch regular David Bromwich suggests all too vividly today, we now find ourselves on a war planet and whether that war is among humans or with nature, it only seems to be escalating by the month. Tom

Living on a War Planet

And Managing Not to Notice

By David Bromwich

A new war, a new alibi. When we think about our latest war the one that began with the Russian invasion of Ukraine, just six months after our Afghan War ended so catastrophically there is a hidden benefit. As long as American minds are on Ukraine, we are not thinking about planetary climate disruption. This technique of distraction obeys the familiar mechanism that psychologists have called displacement. An apparently new thought and feeling becomes the substitute for harder thoughts and feelings you very much want to avoid.

Every news story about Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's latest demand for American or European weaponry also serves another function: the displacement of a story about, say, the Canadian fires which this summer destroyed a forest wilderness the size of the state of Alabama and 1,000 of which are still burning as this article goes to press. Of course, there is always the horrific possibility that Ukraine could pass from a "contained" to a nuclear war, as out of control as those Canadian fires. Yet we are regularly assured that the conflict, close to the heart of Europe, is under careful supervision. The war has a neatly framed villain (Vladimir Putin) and thanks to both the U.S. and NATO a great many good people containing him. What could possibly go wrong?

A fantasy has taken root among well-meaning liberals. Ukraine, they believe, is the "good war" people like them have been searching for since 1945. "This is our Spain," young enthusiasts have been heard to say, referring to the Spanish Republican war against fascism. In Ukraine in the early 2020s, unlike Spain in the late 1930s, the Atlantic democracies will not falter but will go on "as long as it takes." Also, the climate cause will be assisted along the way, since Russia is a large supplier of natural gas and oil, and the world needs to unhook itself from both.

That theory got tested a year ago, with the underwater sabotage of Russia's Nordstream natural gas pipelines in the Baltic Sea. President Biden, National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan, and Deputy Secretary of State Victoria Nuland all welcomed that environmental disaster. In an eventually deleted message the former Polish foreign minister and war advocate Radislaw Sikorski tweeted thanks to the U.S. for what he took to be a transparently American operation. The American media, however, treated the attack as an imponderable mystery, some reports even suggesting that Russia might have destroyed its own invaluable pipeline for reasons yet to be fathomed. Then, in a February 2023 article, the independent investigative reporter Seymour Hersh traced the attack to the U.S., and later Western reports would come halfway to his conclusion by assigning credit to Ukraine, or a pro-Ukrainian group. As of late summer, all reporting on the Nordstream disaster seems to have stopped. What has not stopped is the killing. The numbers of dead and wounded in the Ukraine war are now estimated at nearly half a million, with no end in sight.

The Nordstream wreck was only one attention-getting catastrophe within the greater horror that a war always is. An act of industrial sabotage on a vast scale, it was also an act of environmental terrorism, causing the largest methane leak in the history of the planet. According to a report in Forbes, "The subsequent increase in greenhouse gases" was equivalent to as much as 32% of Denmark's annual emissions."

The Russian invasion of Ukraine was an illegal and immoral act, but the adjective that usually follows illegal and immoral is "unprovoked." In truth, this war was provoked. A contributing cause, impossible to ignore, was the eastward extension of NATO, always moving closer to the western borders of Russia, in the years from 1991 to 2022. That expansion was gradual but relentless. Consider the look of such a policy to the country -- no longer Communist and barely a great power which, in 2013, American leaders again began to describe as an adversary.

With the end of the Cold War in 1991 (the very global conflict that gave NATO its reason for being), the eastward projection of the alliance accelerated dramatically. Hungary, Poland, and the Czech Republic, all former members of the Soviet bloc, were brought into NATO in 1999; and 2004 witnessed an even richer harvest of former satellites of the USSR: Bulgaria, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Romania, Slovakia, and Slovenia, all either near to or bordering on Russia. Then came the Bucharest Summit Declaration of April 2008: Georgia and Ukraine, the NATO heads of state announced, would be given the opportunity to apply for membership at some future date. If you want to know why Putin and his advisers might have considered this a security concern for Russia, look at a map.

Counterfeit Solidarity

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Westbound lanes of Interstate 84 have reopened following a several-hour operation to remove the two semitrucks that crashed into the Columbia River hours apart in Sherman County Friday and Saturday.

Crews had to remove two cabs and four trailers from the water near Biggs Junction, according to the Oregon Department of Transportation.

Oregon State Police and Sherman County Sheriffs deputies responded to reports of a semitruck crash just before 9 p.m. Friday night near milepost 103. The truck driver had crashed into an abandoned Mercedes that was parked on the shoulder of the freeway before going through the guardrail and into the river, police said.

The sheriffs office said the driver swam to shore.

At 12:25 a.m. Saturday, a second semitruck hauling two empty fuel tanks crashed into an unoccupied Oregon Department of Transportation vehicle that was responding to the first crash. The semitruck left the road and crashed into the river in the same area as the first driver, police said.

A police log from Oregon State Police said the driver of the second truck likely fell asleep, but the log did not say what caused the first crash. No one was harmed in either crash.

 Austin De Dios; adedios@oregonian.com; @austindedios; 503-319-9744

Our journalism needs your support. Please become a subscriber today at OregonLive.com/subscribe
A man was shot to death in North Portland Monday morning, and a 19-year-old has been arrested on murder charges, Portland police said.

Police found the man dead around 1:30 a.m. near 5100 N. Vancouver Ave. after responding to a call about a shooting. They soon detained Issac Henderson, who neighbors said lives with his mother in the apartment where the shooting occurred.

North Vancouver Avenue was cordoned off with police tape Monday morning from North Webster to North Sumner streets.

Several neighbors who had gathered at the corner of the block Monday morning said they believed Henderson had shot the man in self-defense.

Erin Sadewhite, a friend and neighbor of the family, said that, as far as she knew, Henderson was just trying to protect his mom. The man who was shot went by Junior and was dating Hendersons mother, Rachel Henderson, Sadewhite said. She said the man often was in conflict with Issac Henderson.

Another long-time friend and neighbor, John McWoods, said the dead man was an unwelcome fixture in the neighborhood.

Police have not released the name of the man who was shot and killed.

Around 8:30 a.m., Rachel Henderson was outside her building talking to some neighbors about the shooting. Another resident on the block, Roosevelt Crawford, asked Rachel Henderson about her son.

He was just taking care of us. He always does, Rachel Henderson said, adding she thought police would release him soon. I dont see him [being] down there for that many hours.

Police also detained a younger sibling of Issac Henderson, taking him away in handcuffs.

Issac Henderson faces likely charges of second-degree murder and unlawful use of a weapon, court records show. He was booked in Multnomah County Jail around 11 a.m., about 10 hours after the shooting.

Do you have a tip? Get in touch.

 Fedor Zarkhin

Office: 503-294-7674; Cell: 971-373-2905; fzarkhin@oregonian.com
When Rylee Hatlen set her mind to graduate early from Rosemary Anderson High School, nothing could stop her. Her school counselor suggested Hatlen wait, but the 17-year-old had the credits and didnt want to put it off. She smiled and posed with her diploma in June 2021.

She wanted to get out in the world and she could see her path more clearly than I could, said Camille Konneker, the counselor. It was an accomplishment. I think she wanted to feel proud.
Law enforcement officials identified the Vancouver man suspected of burning human remains in a car in Clark County as 35-year-old Logan Melchert.

Melchert faces second-degree arson and unlawful disposal of human remains charges after Clark County Sheriffs deputies went searching for a missing person in unincorporated Hazel Dell, according to the sheriffs office.

Deputies were searching for a man who had been missing for weeks at his last known home near Northwest Sluman Road and Overlook Drive. Deputies found a Kia Soul burned by a fire on the property and what appeared to be human remains inside.

The Kia Soul is owned by the estate of Melcherts dead father, the sheriffs office said. The countys medical examiner is still working to determine whether the remains belong to the missing man.

Homicide investigators also are assessing what happened before the car caught fire.

Deputies initially arrested Melchert last Monday on an unrelated warrant for felony assault, reckless endangerment, driving under the influence of intoxicants and criminal mischief, among other charges, court records show.

 Austin De Dios; adedios@oregonian.com; @austindedios; 503-319-9744

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The state-owned enterprise National Nuclear Generating Company Energoatom received UAH 68 billion in revenues in the first half of this year and paid almost UAH 11 billion in taxes to Ukraine's state budget.

"Despite the fact that electricity sales decreased by 30% for objective reasons (due to the temporary occupation of the Zaporizhia NPP), the company managed to keep its revenue almost at the level of last year," Energoatom said on its Telegram channel on Tuesday.

As Energoatom said, a separate division of Energoatom, represented by Energoatom-Trading, has established almost complete sales of electricity in recent months, which significantly reduced the volume of positive imbalances of the company (the sale of electricity unsold on the day ahead market of Energoatom on the balancing market at a lower price).

"Energoatom-Trading has demonstrated a significant positive trend following the results of the last few months. The sale of electricity on the market took place in full, which led to a decrease in positive imbalances. This is the result of a correct and balanced trading strategy of the company," Vice President Energoatom Hartmut Jakob was quoted by the company's press service.

According to Energoatom, in July-August 2023, positive imbalances decreased to 0.5%, which is the best indicator since the start of the new reformed electricity market.

As reported, the production of electricity by Ukraine's nuclear power plants (NPPs) in January-July 2023 amounted to 28.924 billion kWh, which is 3.9 billion kWh more than predicted at the beginning of the year.

Energoatom said that the additional volume of electricity generation from nuclear power plants was achieved due to optimization and reduction in the timing of scheduled repair campaigns. According to the company, the share of nuclear power plants in the total electricity generation structure in January-July 2023 reached 47.6%.
A Multnomah County hearings officer has ordered that Jessie Miller must permanently give up his pit bull mix Bubbie after designating the canine dangerous for mauling a runner in Southeast Portland in April, less than two months after he attacked another dog.

The order this month followed a three-hour appeal hearing where Miller called the dog his best friend, and a smart animal who finds ways to get off leash. At the same hearing, the woman who was mauled unwrapped protective coverings on her right arm and legs to show the hearings officer and Miller her lasting scars from the attack.
The Ace Hotels success was never just about the hotel. As The New York Times, Bloomberg and other East Coast publications noted after the chains Portland flagship debuted in 2007, the hotels were meant to be nodal points for a city, with developers partnering with retailers and restaurateurs to fill not just the lobby, but surrounding storefronts as well.

Yet since the official departures of Clyde Common and Kenny & Zukes last year, the businesses that brought life to Portlands own Ace Hotel  itself a test run for hotels in New York, London and other cities  have mostly sat empty.

By the end of the year, when Stumptown Coffee Roasters plans to move its lobby cafe to the nearby 11W building, The Ace will be have five vacant spaces: the two restaurants, the coffee shop, an events space and the subterranean bar previously home to Pepe Le Moko.

We reached out to Submarine Hospitality, the Portland restaurant group behind Ava Genes and Tusk (which, like the Ace, Bamboo Sushi, Blue Star Donuts, is now owned by local investment group Sortis) to see if we could learn more about the plans for the various spaces. And while some aspects are still to be determined, one project is well underway.

Early next year, the former Clyde Common space will reopen as Stones Throw, an all-day cafe inspired by international travel from a chef with experience at top restaurants in California and Colorado.

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Stones Throw comes from John Bissell, a chef who worked at Hippo in Los Angeles and Oak in Boulder, the latter as executive chef starting in 2021. At the end of a two-year run in Colorado, Bissell interviewed with Submarine co-founder Joshua McFadden, who pitched him on Stones Throw, an idea for a restaurant that happened to share a name with Bissells favorite Los Angeles record label. He moved to Portland with his wife last year, was part of the reopening team at Ava Genes, and has since helped out at other Submarine projects.

Where were located, were really just a stones throw away from the entire world, Bissell said of what the name means to him. From Portland International Airport, flying to Japan, the Ace Hotel itself as a place where travelers come.

At the restaurant, that sense of wanderlust will translate into a grab-and-go sandwich selection with an international convenience store vibe, whether thats roast eggplant snd romesco on house-baked focaccia like the kind you might find at a Roman train station, or Japanese-style conbi sandwiches with bay shrimp salad or cucumber, seaweed and Kewpie mayo on Stones Throws own milk bread. Bissell is also researching a section of hand-held items, including hashbrowns packed with liquid Tillamook cheddar or roasted tomato jam, designed for eating on the go.

What were really trying to do is be inspired by travel and movement, the vignettes we experience along the way at airport kiosks, train stations, then filter those experiences through the lens of American cuisine and create something thats uniquely Portland with that framework, Bissell said.

For those dining in, Bissell imagines two different variations on oatmeal, one cold, with raw oats soaked in oat milk, local wild berries, lingonberry jam, toasted hazelnuts and a disc of frozen yogurt semifreddo, then a hot and savory version with rolled, steel and toasted oat bran, a rich pork stock, a soft boiled egg and ham, with Parm and house coppa di testa shaved over the top.

Bissell said his approach to brunch was more Southern California than Central Colorado.

The dish that comes to my mind is biscuits and gravy, but focusing on something thats diametrically opposed to that, he said. Not big, rich, heavy plates, but lighter fare, raw dishes, cold dishes, frozen dishes, limiting the amount of dairy and egg that round out a meal, and focusing on the hyper-seasonality of the microclimates that we get.

The dinner menu is still being developed, but Bissell notes that the modular ordering counter can be flipped into a small bar for wine or other drinks, transitioning from counter service by day to a full service restaurant at dinner. The focus will still be on nostalgic American cuisine, but with homemade bread, pastas and tarts made by hand in Stones Throws kitchen.

This was one of the most important restaurants in Portland for a decade, Bissell said of the previous tenant. Were going to be respectful of that, but also have a team thats breathing new life into the space. The food will be fun, but helping to turn the corner on downtown Portland is something Im really looking forward to.

Look for Stones Throw to debut in early 2024 at 1014 S.W. Harvey Milk St., next to the Ace Hotel lobby, stonesthrowcafe.com

Read more

Clyde Common has closed, ending a go-go era for Portland dining

Kenny & Zukes to close flagship deli in downtown Portland

 Michael Russell; mrussell@oregonian.com

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At a small section of the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear plants central control room, the treated water transfer switch is on. A graph on a computer monitor nearby shows a steady decrease of water levels as treated radioactive wastewater is diluted and released into the Pacific Ocean.

In the coastal area of the plant, two seawater pumps are in action, gushing torrents of seawater through sky blue pipes into the big header where the treated water, which comes down through a much thinner black pipe from the hilltop tanks, is diluted hundreds of times before the release.

The sound of the treated and diluted radioactive water flowing into an underground secondary pool was heard from beneath the ground as media, including The Associated Press, toured the plant in northeastern Japan for the first time since the water release began.

The best way to eliminate the contaminated water is to remove the melted fuel debris, said Tokyo Electric Power Company Holdings spokesperson Kenichi Takahara, who escorted Sundays media tour for foreign media.

But Takahara said the scarcity of information from inside the nuclear reactors makes planning and development of the necessary robotic technology and a facility for the melted fuel removal extremely difficult.

Removal of the melted fuel debris is not like we can just take it out and be finished, he said.

The projected decades-long release of treated water has been strongly opposed by fishing groups and criticized by neighboring countries. China immediately banned imports of seafood from Japan in response. In Seoul, thousands of South Koreans rallied over the weekend to condemn the release, demanding Japan to keep it in tanks.

Japans Foreign Ministry on Sunday issued a travel advisory to Japanese citizens to use extra caution while in China. It said act of harassment, including massive phone calls, have targeted to the Japanese embassy, consulate and Japanese schools in China, and it urged Japanese in China to stay away from those places and from protests of the water release, and not to talk loudly in Japanese to avoid attention.

Managing the ever-growing volume of radioactive wastewater held in more than 1,000 tanks has been a safety risk and a burden since the plant was wrecked by a massive earthquake and tsunami on March 11, 2011. The tanks are already filled to 98% of their 1.37 million-ton capacity.

Releasing the water into the sea is a milestone for the decommissioning of the plant, which is expected to take decades. But it is just the beginning of the challenges ahead, such as the removal of the fatally radioactive melted fuel debris that remains in the three damaged reactors, a daunting task if ever accomplished.

The plants operator, Tokyo Electric Power Company Holdings, started releasing the first batch of 7,800 tons from 10 of the group B tanks, among the least radioactive water at the plant.

They say the water is treated and diluted to levels that are safer than international standards, and so far, testing by TEPCO and government agencies has found no detectable radioactivity in seawater and fish samples taken after the release.

The Japanese government and TEPCO say releasing the water is an unavoidable step in the decommissioning of the plant.

Since the earthquake and tsunami destroyed the plants cooling systems and caused three reactors to melt, highly contaminated cooling water applied to the damaged reactors has leaked continuously to the buildings basements and mixed with groundwater. Some water is recycled to cool the nuclear fuel, while the rest is stored in the tanks.

The release started at the daily pace of 460 tons and moves slowly. TEPCO plans to release 31,200 tons of treated water by the end of March 2024, which would empty only 10 tanks because the site will continue to produce radioactive water.

The pace will quicken later and about 1/3 of the tanks will be removed over the next 10 years, freeing up space for the plants decommissioning, said TEPCO executive Junichi Matsumoto, who is in charge of the treated water release. The water will be released over 30 years, but as long as melted fuel stays in the reactors, it requires cooling water under the current prospect.

About 880 tons of radioactive melted nuclear fuel remain inside the reactors. Robotic probes have provided some information but the status of the melted debris remains largely unknown, and the amount could be even larger, says Takahara, the TEPCO spokesman.

A trial removal of melted debris using a giant remote-controlled robotic arm is set to begin in Unit 2 later this year, though it will be a very small amount, Takahara said.

Spent fuel removal from the Unit 1 reactors cooling pool is set to start in 2027. The reactor top is still covered with debris from the explosion 12 years ago and needs to be cleaned up after putting a protective cover to contain radioactive dust.

Inside the worst-hit Unit 1, most of its reactor core melted and fell to the bottom of the primary containment chamber and possibly farther into the concrete basement. A robotic probe sent inside the Unit 1 primary containment chamber has found that its pedestal  the main supporting structure directly under its core  was extensively damaged.

Most of its thick concrete exterior was missing, exposing the internal steel reinforcement, prompting regulators to ask TEPCO to make risk assessment.

The government has stuck to its initial 30-to-40-year target for completing the decommissioning, without defining what that means. Rushing the schedule could cause more radiation exposure to workers and more environmental damage. Some experts say it would be impossible to remove all the melted fuel debris by 2051 and would take 50-100 years, if achieved at all.
Deb Couche stood on her deck about five miles east of Sandy on Saturday evening and snapped pictures of smoke rising from the Mount Hood National Forest.

When the Riverside wildfire erupted along the Clackamas River in 2020, she evacuated three horses in preparation for the worst. Now shes fearing the worst again, she said.

On Sunday night, she sat with nearly 100 people in the Sandy High School auditorium to hear from fire officials about their attempts to put out the Camp Creek fire, sparked by lightning Thursday near the Bull Run drinking water reservoirs. It has since grown to 1,606 acres as of Monday, officials said.

Im concerned about the wind and weather change, because the conditions are such that the fire can cover six to seven miles very quickly, Couche said.

Formerly a resource manager for the Clackamas Fire District, Couche said she has seen the rapid devastation that fires can cause. Once youre closed in, you cant hardly get out, she said.

The fire stood at 0% containment as of Monday morning, according to the U.S. Forest Service.

Evans Kuo, incident commander for Great Basin Team 1, the leading firefighting team, said a crew of 150 was attacking the fire. The density of the tree canopy makes it difficult to get close, but the crew was working to suppress the fire with the resources available, Kuo said.

Were doing our best to keep [the fire] away from the water treatment; thats one of our highest priorities, he said. As long as the winds are more or less coming from the west, were having great success trying to cut it off.

Michael Davis, spokesperson for the regions incident resources team, told attendees that the team has firefighters on the ground and helicopters dumping water from the air to control the blaze.

Were going to do everything we can to keep the fire in the smallest footprint possible, he said.

Dan Fink, another Sandy resident, echoed Couches fear of rapid fire growth.

Theres been concern about a fire like this for years in the Bull Run reservoir, he said. The old growth timber risks a very high fuel burn. Maybe theyre not as aggressive patrolling it as they could be.

Cindy Sempert of Rhododendron said that she wanted as much information as she could get from Clackamas County authorities.

The sky has been smoky and lately, Im careful, she said. I want to know whats going on and if I should prepare to pack up.

Daniel Nibouar, interim deputy disaster manager for Clackamas County, told the crowd that no evacuation notices had been issued as of Sunday. That was still the case Monday afternoon. Should the fire cross Forest Road 14, about a mile south of Bull Run Reservoir 1, fire officials will issue a Level 1 (be ready) warning for the area, Nibouar said.

The Camp Creek fire is one of several burning in Oregon this month.

To check for updates on the Camp Creek fire, visit inciweb.nwcg.gov or follow #CampCreekFire on social media.

 Where are wildfires happening? Keep tabs with our live wildfire tracker map

 Your emergency go bag needs to have these essentials in case of wildfires

 Kayla Nguyen, knguyen@oregonian.com

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Walt Curtis, a writer often referred to as Portlands Unofficial Poet Laureate, has died at the age of 82.

His sister, Cleo Buckley, told The Oregonian/OregonLive he died Friday.

As the author of the 1977 semi-autobiographical book Mala Noche, Curtis was the inspiration for director Gus Van Sants first feature film. Curtis appears in the 1986 film, which was partially shot in his Northwest Portland apartment and helped spark what would become Portlands thriving independent film scene.

Even without that cinematic component, though, Curtis would rank as a seminal figure in Portlands literary and cultural scene, a constant lifeline to a countercultural past and an unflagging inspiration to generations of writers and artists.

Curtis was born on July 4, 1941, and shared a first name with another boundary-pushing chronicler of the American soul, Walt Whitman. His first books of poetry were published in the early 1970s, and occupy similar post-beatnik territory to the work of Allen Ginsburg and Lawrence Ferlinghetti  openly gay, sexually frank, corporeally ecstatic.

After the publication of Mala Noche, but before the film was made, Curtis appeared in two films by Portland filmmaker Penny Allen, Property (1978) and Paydirt (1981). In 1988, he helped found, along with Brian Booth and David Milholand, the Oregon Cultural Heritage Commission, which worked to create and protect monuments to names from the regions past, including Hazel Hall, John Reed and Louise Bryant. Despite his mischievous, outlaw exterior, Curtis scholarly work helped to preserve the memories of many overlooked Oregon authors.

Starting in 1970, and for over 40 years, Curtis hosted the Talking Earth program on KBOO radio. He has been profiled in numerous films, including Bill Plymptons 1998 documentary Peckerneck Poet, which stands as a tribute not only to the man but to the Old Portland he represents and mourns, and Sabrina Guitarts Salmon Poet, released in 2009.

Portland poet Leanne Grabel said she first saw Curtis read his poetry in 1975 when she was visiting the city with a friend. The experience transformed her and helped set her on a path that has defined the rest of her life.

He was just magical, Grabel said. His words were dancing. It just blew my mind. And it changed my life.

Inspired by Curtis, Grabel moved to Portland within weeks and started reading her own work at open-mic nights, with Curtiss support. Grabel has since established herself as a well-known poet in her own right.

Portland filmmaker Brian Lindstrom recalled meeting Curtis in the early 1980s when Curtis lived in the infamous apartment building at 133 NW 18th Avenue known as The Lawn. What struck 20-year-old me about him was that he had a poetic engagement with Portland that transcended any particular poem or painting of his. He knew and understood its people and flowers and history, and he found beauty and dignity in some of its most vulnerable citizens.

Even as he became a sort of outsider eminence grise, Curtis never seemed to lose his adventurous, even reckless spirit. He continued to mentor younger writers, artists and musicians. He spoke out about the changes in Portland, stating in a 2015 interview that Our city is evolving  no its devolving! Its over. The billionaires have got it.

Environmental concerns were often at the forefront of Curtis art. In that same interview, he said: I consider myself a spiritual ecological preacher. As a poet, I have been given the cosmic task of alerting world consciousness from the Tao, and the divine intelligence in the Universe. With the last biological years I have left, I will enlighten if I can.

In August 2017, Curtis suffered a fall that required hospitalization and brain surgery. Within days, however, according to longtime friend and Oregon cultural historian Anne Richardson, he was up and walking around. On his bedside table, she recalled, besides fresh figs, a tin of wild caught sardines and an empty wrapper of chocolates, were Hemingway, Ferlinghetti, Rilke and Sappho. A poet and an epicure, it seems, even in the most extreme conditions.

Buckley said her brother suffered from numerous ailments linked to late-stage alcoholism. And yet he remained active until his last weeks, giving KBOO an interview two days before he died and planning a trip to a river with friends.

Buckley is now going through the possessions Curtis accumulated over the seven years he lived in a shared house on Northeast 22nd Avenue. She plans to preserve anything that could help give insight into Curtis mind and life and work.

Theres stuff in there that needs to be saved for future generations, Buckley said. Wouldnt you like to have Hemingways scribblings and midnight ramblings?

 Reporter Fedor Zarkhin contributed to this report.
If SCOTUS recent ruling striking down President Bidens relief plan still has you reeling, then the Broke & Bothered newsletter is for you. Join Reckons Alexis Wray as she questions the legitimacy of student loans, gives you tools to take action and shares stories from real people most impacted: Enter your email to subscribe.

Before killing three African American shoppers in Jacksonville, Florida, a racist white gunman had an encounter with campus security at Edward Waters University, a historically Black university, which later issued a campus-wide lockdown.

A private, Christian school where about 2,000 students are enrolled, Edward Waters isnt well known outside of Florida or circles with deep knowledge of HBCUs.

However, the school has a rich history that shouldnt be overshadowed by the weekends tragic events.

Here are several more fascinating facts you should know about Edward Waters:
Ukrainian Defense Minister Oleksiy Reznikov believes that modern F-16 fighters will be handed over to Ukraine and "hopes" for the appearance of the multi-purpose Swedish aircraft Saab JAS 39 Gripen in the Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine.

"Whatever there is, there will be F-16s, I know it. I don't just think, but I know. And there will be other various 'interesting things.' Since we need to talk today about the future of our army, the future of the Defense Forces. We are talking about this, first of all, with our American partners about the Future Force Concept," Reznikov said during a conversation with reporters on Monday.

He said even after the victory, "so that the Russians could not return," Ukraine needs to have a powerful modernized modern army.

"Modern aviation is an element of air defense and an element of preventing enemy dominance in the air. Therefore, the F-16 and I have hope that the Swedish Gripen will at least be in the Ukrainian Air Force," he said.
Spokesman of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine Oleh Nikolenko expressed regret that in his speech, Pope Francis voiced "Russian great-power ideas" with which the Kremlin justifies the killings of Ukrainians.

"Never forget the legacy. You are the heirs of Great Russia: Great Russia of saints, rulers, Great Russia of Peter I, Catherine II, that empire  great, enlightened, of great culture and great humanity. Never give up this legacy, you are the heirs of the great Mother Russia, go forward with it. And thanks. Thank you for your way of being, for your way of being Russian.' This is a quote from Pope Francis' speech to the participants of the 10th National Meeting of Young Catholics of Russia in St. Petersburg on August 25," Nikolenko said on Facebook.

The Ukrainian Foreign Ministry said it is precisely with such imperialist propaganda, "spiritual bonds" and "need" to save the "great Mother Russia" that the Kremlin justifies the murders of thousands of Ukrainians and Ukrainian women, the destruction of hundreds of Ukrainian cities and villages.

"It is very unfortunate that Russian grand-power ideas, which, in fact, are the cause of Russia's chronic aggression, knowingly or unknowingly, come from the Pope's mouth, whose mission, in our understanding, is precisely to open the eyes of Russian youth to the destructive course of the current Russian leadership," Nikolenko said.
Johannesburg, South Africa (PANA) - The diamond industry has faced multiple challenges leading to a notable shifting of the industry landscape over the last few years, according to personal liability company BDO South Africa
New York, US (PANA) - While its peacekeeping operation in Mali, MINUSMA, draws to a close by the end of this year, the UN remains committed to supporting the countrys stability and development, the head of the Mission said on Monday
Photo: (Photo : David Grandmougin on Unsplash)

Recent research has brought to light significant concerns regarding the efficacy of popular voice assistants like Google Assistant, Siri, and Alexa in guiding individuals through life-saving cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) procedures.

Published this Monday, the groundbreaking study revealed that only 59% of responses from these voice-activated assistants contained information even remotely related to CPR. More alarmingly, only one-third of the responses offered actual instructions for performing CPR.

Led by Dr. Adam Landman, the Chief Information Officer and Senior Vice President of Digital at Mass General Brigham, the research examined responses to eight specific questions related to CPR. These questions were posed to various voice assistant platforms, including Amazon's Alexa on an Echo Show 5, Apple's Siri on an iPhone, Google's Assistant on a Nest Mini, and Microsoft's Cortana on a Windows 10 laptop. Subsequently, two board-certified emergency medicine physicians scrutinized the transcripts of these interactions to gauge their accuracy and relevance.

Methodology: How the Study Was Conducted

Commenting on the study, Dr. Comilla Sasson, the Vice President for Science and Innovation at the American Heart Association, who was not directly involved in the research, said, "This is a pivotal study. It informs us about potential collaboration between voice assistant manufacturers and health organizations to ensure that life-saving information is accurate and readily available."

The unreliability of voice assistants as a source of medical guidance could have dire consequences. Dr. Landman warns, "Witnesses of a medical emergency should not solely rely on voice assistants for CPR instructions. The first and immediate action must be to call 911 if a cardiac arrest is suspected."

Education remains at the core of an effective first-aid response. Dr. Sasson encourages everyone to spend a brief amount of time-just 90 seconds-to familiarize themselves with CPR and the use of an automated external defibrillator (AED). She points out that approximately 960 people in the United States suffer from cardiac arrest each day, stressing the need for widespread public awareness. "Chances are, the life you end up saving with this knowledge will be that of someone you know or love," she added.

Read Also: Smart Kitchen Appliances That You Need, and They Work with Alexa!

A Glimpse into the Future: Opportunities for Technological Enhancements

Despite the current shortcomings of voice assistants, Dr. Landman sees a bright future. He suggests a multi-faceted approach for improvement, starting with the standardization of specific phrases to ensure the retrieval of quick and accurate CPR information. Furthermore, Dr. Landman highlighted the potential for technological innovations, such as rhythm guidance for chest compressions.

The beat of "Staying Alive" by the Bee Gees has been shown to be an effective guide for maintaining the proper rhythm, something voice assistants could easily play to assist rescuers in real-time.

"Imagine a scenario where your voice assistant could play the right beat for CPR chest compressions," Dr. Landman envisioned. "This could dramatically increase the effectiveness of bystander CPR efforts."

Nevertheless, until such advancements are realized, both physicians strongly emphasize that calling 911 should always be the immediate action taken in the event of a suspected cardiac arrest, underscoring the current limitations of technology in such critical, life-and-death situations.

The findings serve not only as a critical alert for the general public but also as a call to action for tech companies. Collaboration with medical organizations to refine and improve the AI algorithms powering voice assistants could be an invaluable step toward making these devices genuinely beneficial in emergency situations.

Related Article: Lazy Parents Turn to Siri and Alexa to Potty Train Their Kids
Photo: (Photo : Jefferson Santos on Unsplash)

Former U.S. Marine officer Sarah Feinberg, who had multiple combat tours in Iraq, became a whistleblower after uncovering a massive civil fraud scheme at Booz Allen Hamilton. The consulting firm recently agreed to pay a $377 million settlement while admitting no wrongdoing. This marks the third-largest contract fraud settlement in U.S. history, according to the Department of Justice (DOJ).

After returning from Iraq and completing an MBA from the Wharton School, Feinberg joined Booz Allen Hamilton, a company with annual contracts valued at $6.5 billion. She was tasked with tracking internal financial data. It was then that she discovered the company was allegedly overcharging U.S. taxpayers to subsidize its loss-making private consulting contracts, including those with foreign governments like Saudi Arabia.

Battle Inside Booz Allen

Feinberg tried for nine months to convince Booz Allen executives to address what she believed was blatant fraud. Ignored and sidelined, she finally chose to resign while pregnant with twins. After stepping down, she used the "qui tam" procedure under the False Claims Act, which allows an insider to sue on behalf of the U.S. government and recover a percentage of the settlement.

Because Feinberg discovered the alleged fraud and filed a complaint, she and her legal team received a staggering $69 million from the $377 million settlement. "I've got three kids, and I tell them, 'Doing the right thing is the right thing, no matter what the outcome is,'" said Feinberg, who plans to give away at least $12 million of her share to charity.

For Feinberg, the fight isn't entirely over. She believes the settlement amount should have been higher, given that she argues in her lawsuit that the firm overcharged taxpayers by at least $500 million. Post-settlement, Booz Allen's stock price even surged by 20%, adding insult to injury.

Justice Department officials said they secured the best settlement possible, and Booz Allen, in its statement, maintained that it has "always believed it acted lawfully and responsibly. The firm also noted that a separate criminal inquiry and Securities and Exchange Commission investigation were closed without action.

Read Also: Food Fraud Cases Increasingly Growing in Kitchens Everywhere in America; How to Detect It

Community Support

Feinberg said she has received numerous messages from current and former Booz Allen employees praising her courage. Her actions also sparked a conversation on the ethical responsibilities of corporations, particularly those involved in government contracts.

Feinberg credits her time in the Marine Corps for giving her the moral compass to take such a strong stand. "It helped me get a sense of right versus wrong and to have a clear picture of the service that I wanted to perform for our country," she said.

Feinberg doesn't see her life changing dramatically despite the massive settlement. A runner and mother of three, she plans to continue her charitable work and stay in her current Northern Virginia home with her husband, who runs an anti-poverty nonprofit. They have plans for a lake house and a trip to Italy, but Feinberg says, "I'm going to give a lot of it to charity and to causes I believe in."

This case serves as a watershed moment for corporate ethics and a powerful testament to the impact of individual courage in the face of institutional malpractice.

Related Article: Stimulus Check Fraud: California Mom Pleads Guilty to $145K Scam With Son on Death Row
For those of us teaching classes this year, particularly in Catholic contexts, we have the unique privilege of integrating our faith into every aspect of our teaching. Pope John Paul IIs Apostolic Constitution on Catholic Universities, Ex Corde Ecclesiae , offers invaluable guidance on how to infuse Catholic life into our classrooms. Here are ten ideas inspired by this document that can help us create an authentically Catholic educational environment.

1. Begin with Prayer

Start each class with a short prayer or reflection, inviting students to center their hearts and minds on Gods presence. Encourage them to offer their studies as a form of worship and ask for the Holy Spirits guidance throughout the day. In my work with the Catholic Biblical School of Michigan, I have made our times of prayer more than just a moment in the class time together, but one of the cornerstones of how Im teaching.

2. Teach from a Christian Anthropology

Integrate the Churchs understanding of human nature into your lessons by emphasizing concepts such as human dignity, created in Gods image, and the call to holiness. Help students grasp that education is not only about acquiring knowledge but also about forming themselves fully as persons made for communion with God. As people created in the image of God, each of us is sacred. Model respect for students and ensure the classroom is a place where the image of God in another student is never desecrated by cruelty or dishonor.

3. Incorporate Scripture

Bring sacred scripture alive in your classroom by incorporating relevant passages during discussions or reflections related to your subject matter. By studying scripture together, you provide students with spiritual nourishment while deepening their understanding of course material through a theological lens. There is an increasingly troubling biblical illiteracy. Dont ever assume students know scripture. Teach it and make it come alive to them. For that matter make sure you are delving meaningfully into scripture in your own life, this way you can share the scriptures from your own heart and from a place of transformation in your own life.

4. Explore Moral Dimensions

Encourage ethical reflection within your curriculum by discussing moral implications related to the topics studied. This approach allows students to recognize that their learning has real-world consequences and helps them develop critical thinking skills rooted in the rich tradition of Catholic moral teaching.

5. Foster Faith-Inspired Dialogue

Create opportunities for open dialogue where students can express diverse perspectives while grounded in respect and charity towards one anotherencouraging empathy when discussing controversial subjects so they may grow intellectually without compromising Christian principles. There is a great need in our world for disciples who are able to speak with love as they share the reasons for which they have hope. Dialog not only helps students wrestle with content themselves but also builds critical skills needed in the world we live in.

6. Encounter Sacramental Living

Invite students into sacramental living experiences by arranging visits to the chapel, encouraging participation in the sacraments, and facilitating encounters with priests or religious speakers who can share their vocation stories or other people who can offer stories of personal conversion or encounter with Christ. These experiences help students deepen their understanding of Catholic life beyond the classroom.

7. Celebrate Liturgical Seasons

Embrace the rhythm of the liturgical year by incorporating feasts, solemnities, and seasons into your teaching. Connect lessons to relevant liturgical themes, such as focusing on social justice during Advent or exploring creation and stewardship during Ordinary Time.

8. Integrate Service-Learning

Promote a culture of service among your students by integrating service-learning projects into your curriculum. Encourage them to apply what they have learned in class to address real-life needs within their community, fostering an understanding that faith is not just theoretical but calls for concrete action.

9. Engage with Catholic Social Teaching

Teach principles from Catholic Social Teaching when discussing societal issues within your subject areahighlighting concepts like human dignity, solidarity, subsidiarity, and preferential option for the poorto guide students towards a deeper awareness of our responsibility as Christians in shaping a more just society.

10. Build a Community of Faith

Create opportunities for communal prayer experiences such as class Masses or prayer services where students can come together in worship and fellowship. Facilitate small group discussions focused on faith-sharing so that they may support one anothers spiritual growth throughout their educational journey. Helping build relationships of significance in students lives can be a powerful gift to your students and the broader community.

By implementing these ideas inspired by Ex Corde Ecclesiae, we can create transformative learning environments rooted in Catholic life and values. Let us remember that we are not only teachers but witnesses to Christs love through our words and actionsan honor bestowed upon us as educators in Catholic schools.

May God bless our efforts as we strive to bring His light into every corner of our classrooms!
As the image above indicates, Ill be giving an English-language presentation tomorrow, Tuesday, at 8 PM Paris time  which is twelve noon Utah time  to students in Europe who are enrolled in the BYU Pathway program. It should be fun  for me, at least.

And then, at 7:00 PM tomorrow, Ill be up in the Salt Lake Valley speaking to a small group there on the topic of When the Bishops Took Charge: The Council of Nicea and Its Sisters: With the passing of the general authorities of the ancient Church (the apostles), local authorities (bishops) and eventually emperors felt obliged to step into the leadership vacuum. Lacking organized quorums, they convened councils, which functioned rather like political conventions. All of the seven ecumenical councils of ancient Christendom met in what is today Turkey. In the absence of revelation, the debates and the voting in these councils drew on scripture mingled with (mostly Middle Platonic) philosophy to define doctrines and enforce unitywith results that continue until our day. The event will take place in West Jordan, Utah, in the small building with the four columns that is located in the background of the photograph above. Heres the general series information for tomorrow nights lecture: Learn Our Religion offers an exciting lecture series with many of our popular, edifying, and entertaining headliners who travel with us and lecture on cruises and land tours all over the world! Our schedule is below with additional dates to be announced. These lectures will be held in our new Jordan Event Center located at 9112 S. Redwood Road, West Jordan, Utah (behind the Cruise Lady office).The lectures will be held from 7-8:30pm. Some headliners will have a few minutes for question and answers after the lecture. Due to limited seating reservations are required. Please contact Learn Our Religion at 801-916-7677 to register. Pricing For Lectures In-Person Single Ticket: $6 10-pack of Lectures: $55 20-pack of Lectures: $100 Streaming 1 Household Ticket for streaming: $10 10 Pack: $90 *Streaming live or recordings are now the same price per household. ***Reservations are required to attend all lectures, or to have access to view lectures virtually.

Interpreter Radio Show  August 20, 2023

In the episode of The Interpreter Radio Show that was broadcast on 20 August 2023, Bruce Webster, Robert Boylan, and Kris Frederickson discussed Come, Follow Me New Testament lesson 38. They also discussed Richard Bushmans statements about the source of the Book of Mormon, two recent articles in Interpreter, and the 2023 FAIR Conference. Those distinct discussions have now been archived as distinct files, emancipated from commercial and other breaks, and made available to you at your own sovereign convenience and at absolutely no charge  excepting the New Testament in Context portion of the show for the Come, Follow Me New Testament lesson 38, Be Ye Reconciled to God covering 2 Corinthians 17, which will be posted separately on Tuesday, 5 September 2023. The Interpreter Radio Show can be heard as it happens, without a net . . . well, each and every single Sunday evening from 7 to 9 PM (MDT), on K-TALK, AM 1640. Or else, if you prefer, you can listen live on the Internet at ktalkmedia.com.

Ive finally gotten around to reading John H. Walton, The Lost World of Adam and Eve: Genesis 2-3 and the Human Origins Debate (Downers Grove, IL: IVP Academic, 2015). Its an extraordinarily interesting read, thus far.

In this book, Professor Walton writes, I will contend that the perceived threat posed by the current consensus about human origins is overblown. And the way he sets out to ground his contention is intriguing.

For one thing, he argues that Genesis 1:1 is a literary introduction to, but not actually a part of, the creation narrative that is about to be given (26-27).
The passage from the prophet Isaiah begins with the firing of Shebna as Master of the Palace of the King of Israel. I will thrust you from your office and pull you down from your station.

Scripture describes that the King of Israel had a Master of the Palace, what historians have described as a prime minister of sorts, to whom all high governmental officials reported. The Master of the Palace held the keys which were a symbol of authority over the entire royal palace. This key symbolized his authority to open and close doors to whomever he wished.

Shebna was fired because as Master of the Palace, he decided to build a grand tomb for himself overlooking the city of Jerusalem. He used the power given to him for personal reasons, rather than for the service of the King and Kingdom of Israel.

As Shebna leaves, Eliakin is named Master of the Palace. Isaiah writes of Eliakin, He shall be a father to the inhabitants of Jerusalem I will place the key of the House of David on Eliakims shoulder; when he opens, no one shall shut, when he shuts, no one shall open. I will fix him like a peg in a sure spot.

Eliakin is given the keys to the kingdom, and his position is fixed like a peg  he is going nowhere.

Why is this structure in the Kingdom of Israel important for us to understand? The importance of the Master of the Palace? The authority given to him by the King? His power symbolized by the keys? And that his power strongly fixed like a peg?

Listen carefully again to the words of Jesus to Peter in the Gospel of Matthew, you are Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church, and the gates of the netherworld shall not prevail against it. I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven. Whatever you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven; and whatever you loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.

These words of Jesus to Peter do not happen in a void  they have a historical context. Jesus, the descendent of King David who has come into the world to restore the Kingdom of Israel, appoints a Master of the Palace. This is what the apostles and early Christians would have understood by Jesus speaking of the key, and opening and closing.

Peter is given the keys of the kingdom, and told that he has the authority to open and close the doors of the kingdom. His name is changed from Simon to Peter, which means rock in Greek, to assure us that his position is sturdy and long lasting, like a peg in a sure spot.

Peter, the disciple whose faith wobbled when Jesus asked him to step out of the boat into the water, Peter, the disciple who denied Jesus three times, Peter, the disciple who oftentimes spoke out of turn, is chosen to be the first among the apostles.

The apostles went throughout the world preaching and teaching what they had learned, and as the apostles died, they appointed successors who would continue to lead the church. Saint Peter eventually made it to Rome, where he was martyred by the Vatican Hill, and his successors remained in Rome. The Pope today, as Bishop of Rome, is the direct successor of Saint Peter, and for this reason we still regard him as the keeper of the keys  the Master of the Palace for Gods Kingdom on earth  the Church.

The authority given to Peter was to be a custodian of the teachings of the Church and to shepherd Gods flock. To be a visible leader that would remind all the faithful that we are truly one in Christ  and to forge bonds of unity among all those who believe. To be a reconciler, a mediator, a gatherer of those who are scattered.

We have seen throughout history, that some successors of Saint Peter have been like Shebna from the first reading; they abused the power they received for personal benefit, but at the same time, other successors of Peter have been exemplary men, even saints.

Pope Francis is the 266th Successor of Peter. After 2,000 years, he continues to hold the keys of Peter. Eliakins mandate was fixed like a peg, Peters authority was built on a sturdy rock, and that mandate continues today. The Pope has the power to loosen or tie things here on earth as the Holy Spirit guides the church through history. The Pope provides a living link between us and the apostles, and of course to Christ.

We pray today for the health and intentions of Pope Francis. He holds the keys which lead us to Christ, and therefore we owe him our respect and obedience. We are 1.3 billion Catholics in the world, and he stands as witness to the oneness that we share in Christ. What a blessing that we not only have a Good Shepherd in heaven to whose flock we belong, but that he has given us one shepherd, Peter, so that we can physically be gathered into one flock on earth.

Saint Peter, pray for us.

Saint Andrew, pray for us.

Picture from the public domain.
OmniBSIC Bank, a leading financial institution in Ghana, has announced its commitment to strengthening collaboration and partnership with China in order to enhance the seamless transaction of businesses and build socio-economic development between the two countries.



The Banks Managing Director, Daniel Asiedu made this known during the 62nd signing ceremony of the treaty of friendship between Ghana and China, where he noted that OmniBSIC Banks commitment to working closely with China aligns with the broader efforts of the Ghanaian government to strengthen bilateral ties and attract foreign investment.



Mr. Asiedu emphasised the importance of fostering closer ties with China highlighting the potential for increased trade and investment opportunities that could be mutually beneficial for both countries.



OmniBSIC Bank has a very firm association and roots with China. Our sister company, Zoomlion, is well known for its strategic partnerships in Ghana, Africa and China. We are therefore excited to be given this recognition and platform by Ghana-China Friendship Association (GHACHIFA) to deepen our business association with China to promote the Socio-Economic development of our two nations, he said.



The commitment to collaboration and partnership with China is in line with OmniBSIC Banks strategic vision to expand its global reach and provide enhanced financial services to its customers. The bank aims to leverage Chinas economic strength and expertise to facilitate smoother and more efficient trade and financial transactions.



Explaining further, he said: As a bank, we have a strategic objective, in the spirit of oneness, to establish strong and lasting mutually beneficial relationships with the Chinese Community in Ghana. In this regard, we have established a Chinese Representative Desk in the bank to help us bond with Chinese enterprises and cater to your unique banking needs.

Furthermore, we have registered as a corporate member of GHACHIFA and intend to do more collaborations with the Chinese Community. I am here today with senior officials of OmniBSIC Bank who are eager to engage with you on how we can forge long-lasting and mutually beneficial business relationships.



The OmniBSIC head also highlighted the banks commitment to supporting the growth and development of Ghanas economy through its partnership with China. He expressed optimism that increased collaboration between the two countries would lead to the creation of new business opportunities and job prospects for the Ghanaian people.



On his part, Chairman of the Ghana-China Friendship Association (GHACHIFA), Anani Demuyakor said thetreaty signifies a significant milestone in the relationship between Ghana and China, solidifying years of friendship and cooperation, and paving the way for further collaboration in various fields.



Our gathering here is truly a testament to the commitment of both nations towards strengthening bonds of trust, understanding, and mutual support. We have witnessed remarkable progress, marked by increased trade, investment, and cultural exchanges between our two great nations, he said



He stressed that the commemoration of the 62nd treaty anniversary of signing the treaty opens new avenues for economic growth, technological advancements, and social development, which will undoubtedly bring about lasting benefits for the people of both countries.



The Ghana-China Friendship Association has played a vital role in fostering this friendship, by promoting dialogue, enhancing cultural understanding, and facilitating exchanges at various levels, he added.



The event was graced with dignitaries from the Embassy of the Peoples Republic of China, the Ghana Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, the Ghana Immigration Services, and members of GHACHIFA, among others. Other highlights for the night include a presentation of an honorary citation, conferred on Mr. Tang Hong, the President of the Ghana Association of Chinese Societies and Ghana Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry as well as goodwill messages shared by supporting partners.



OmniBSIC Bank



OmniBSIC Bank is a fully-fledged universal bank that traces its roots to a merger between the erstwhile OmniBank and Sahel Sahara Bank. The merger was spurned by the banking sector consolidation programme introduced by the Bank of Ghana (BOG) in 2017, through a number of directives including the increment of the minimum capital requirement for banks.



The union between the two banks is one of the most successful mergers in the financial services industry. It can be described as synergistic since both banks shared similarities in business models, values, and customer experience and were both committed to offering exceptional customer service in Ghanas banking industry.



This milestone was achieved through the collaborative effort of shareholders, directors, management, and the staff who showed willingness to embrace change to become bigger and better in the Banking industry.



OmniBSIC has reinforced its corporate governance structures and invested in its infrastructure to align with BOGs Corporate Governance and other regulatory directives. The Bank is dedicated to maintaining the highest level of integrity, transparency, and accountability in all operations, thereby creating a reliable framework for clients to conduct their banking activities with us.



With our headquarters at Atlantic Tower, Airport City, and an extensive Branch network of 40 across Ghana, OmniBSIC provides a complete range of products, services, and digital offerings tailored to the needs of our Corporate, SME, and individual customers while supporting the communities in which we operate. In our commitment to creating excellent banking experiences for our customers every day, the Bank continues to invest in technology and employee development. All staff are thus carefully selected and empowered through comprehensive training programmes.

Source: Peacefmonline.com









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In a first for West Africa, Mastercard hosted its inaugural Mastercard Fintech Day in Accra, Ghana. Bringing together some of the continents key stakeholders and thought leaders in the fintech space, the event was a resounding success.



As the African fintech landscape continues to accelerate at an unprecedented speed, financial technology offers an opportunity to bring underserved populations into the digital economy. The Mastercard Fintech Day event set the stage for ongoing collaboration and partnerships that would further advance financial inclusion and unlock new opportunities for innovation in Ghana.



Currently, fintechs cater to the needs of the underbanked, unbanked, and affluent population, filling the gap left by traditional banks in Ghana. McKinseys analysis shows that fintech players are delivering significant value to their customers. Their transactional solutions can be up to 80 percent cheaper and interest on savings up to three times higher than those provided by traditional players.



Through the Fintech Day event, Mastercard demonstrated its extensive capabilities and unwavering commitment to supporting the fintech ecosystem in Ghana, establishing a closer relationship and opportunities for collaboration with the Ghanaian fintech community.



"We are excited to host the first-ever Mastercard Fintech Day in Ghana, said Bossman Kwapong, The Country Director for Ghana at Mastercard. "This event represents a significant milestone in our journey towards empowering communities, promoting financial inclusion, and fostering innovation. By working together with the fintech community, we can unlock new opportunities, drive economic growth, and transform the way financial services are accessed and delivered.



Mastercard is helping to fuel this acceleration by co-creating solutions and offering access to their partners, expertise, technologies, markets, and customers, enabling fintechs to build, launch, and grow. From their best-in-class APIs and data assets to their trusted ecosystem of partners, Mastercard provides the services and tools fintech innovators need at each stage of their journey to transform bold ideas and achieve scale at pace, bringing more people into the digital economy.



The event provided an insightful platform for attendees to understand how the Mastercard digital ecosystem empowered fintech companies to innovate and deliver cutting-edge products and services. With over 50 fintechs and 70 individuals in attendance, the day provided a platform for dialogue and idea sharing. This engagement was particularly crucial in addressing the unique financial needs of various segments of the population. As part of the event, attendees explored the future of adopting contactless payment technology, including QR Pay-by-link and Tap on Phone, ensuring a seamless payment experience.



Guests in attendance also gained insights into the wide array of innovative fintech products and solutions available in the market, thus ensuring better and more accessible financial experiences for all.



I am truly excited about the Mastercard Fintech Day in Accra, said Martin Kwame Awagah, President of The Ghana Fintech and Payment Association. This event marks a significant step in our journey towards a digitally inclusive financial landscape right here in Ghana. Fintech is not just about innovation; its about inclusion. Together with Mastercard, we are forging partnerships, bridging gaps, and creating opportunities that will drive financial inclusion and transform lives. We believe that by working collaboratively, we can shape a brighter future for all Ghanaians, Awagah concluded.



The Telcos operating Electronic Money Institutions, who were all present, were acknowledged as industry innovators and were invited to contribute their unique perspectives on fostering financial inclusion in Ghana. Key stakeholders in attendance benefitted immensely from the Mastercard Fintech Day.



The Ghana Fintech and Payment Association examined ways to leverage Mastercards global expertise and commitment to enhance the growth and development of the Fintech community in Ghana; with the event reiterating Mastercard's commitment to its ESG goal of connecting 1 billion people to the digital economy by 2025.

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An important milestone was reached on August 25th with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Ambassador Dr. Muhammad Shahid Amin Khan, the World Chair of the International Human Rights Commission (IHRC), and Ambassador Abu Zein, the Head of IHRC Africa Region, Ambassador At Large and Senior Deputy World Chairman of IHRC.



The MoU signifies a deep commitment to advancing human rights on both a global and regional scale. By bringing together the leadership of IHRC at the world level and its distinguished regional representative, this collaboration aims to amplify efforts to ensure the protection and promotion of human rights across Africa.



The signing ceremony, held in Accra, is a testament to IHRC's dedication to fostering partnerships that drive positive change. Through joint initiatives, advocacy, and sharing of knowledge and resources, IHRC seeks to strengthen its impact in addressing the unique challenges faced by individuals in the African region.



Ambassador Dr. Muhammad Shahid Amin Khan expressed optimism about the collaboration, stating, "This MoU signifies our shared commitment to upholding the values of human rights and working towards a more just world." Ambassador Zein Abu echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of collective action in advancing IHRC's mission across the African continent.



This partnership aligns with IHRC's overarching goal of creating a world where human rights are universally protected, regardless of geographical boundaries. As IHRC continues to champion human rights causes, this collaboration serves as a beacon of hope for a brighter future for all.

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South Korea announces increase in financial aid to Ukraine by $394 mln for 2024  media

The South Korean government has announced an increase in financial assistance to Ukraine by $394 million for the next year, Reuters reported.

"The aid package includes 130 billion won (over $98 million) for reconstruction, 260 billion (over $196 million) in humanitarian aid and another 130 billion won (over $98 million) through international organisations, according to South Korea's 2024 budget," the report notes.

Reuters recalled that in July, South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol announced that his country would provide a large amount of military supplies this year, but he did not go into details.
The Ministry of Energy has debunked claims in a report authored by the Africa Centre for Energy Policy (ACEP) and IMANI Center for Policy & Education regarding an enquiry report by the Parliamentary Select Committee on Mines and Energy pertaining to the Gas Sales Agreement between the Ghana National Petroleum Corporation and Genser Energy Ghana Limited.



The ACEP and IMANI in their report, among others accused the Energy Minister, Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, of inconsistencies when he appeared before the Parliament's Select Committee on November 24, 2022.



In a swift rebuttal, the Ministry finds it needful to respond to what it termed as false accusations of wrongdoing of the Energy Minister by the two organizations.



In explaining the statement by the Minister that the Ministry was not aware of the gas price negotiated between Genser and GNPC, it said the Minister indicated that the Ministry is not a party to the contract and therefore could not speak to the detail pricing components off-head, especially when the matter was in court.



He however, informed the Committee that upon a written formal request, the Ministry will assist in providing the details of the contract, as well as any other issue of importance to the Committee, the Ministry clarified.



On the issue of the Committees claims during the hearings that Genser was given DIDT status by the Ministry of Energy, the Ministry stated that Genser was first issued a DIDT by the GNGC in 2017 and subsequently DIDTs were issued by the Ministry to other industrial customers (ceramic manufacturing companies) as an incentive to boost gas consumption in the period of excess gas with the associated take or pay commitments.



However, it must be made clear that the DIDT policy predates the assumption of office of the current Energy Minister, Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, who has since advocated for the removal of the DIDT policy, a statement by the Ministry further elaborated.



It continued; The Ministry states unequivocally that, in as much as it has oversight responsibility over energy sector institutions, it is not obliged to meddle in direct contract negotiations between the sector institutions and potential investors unless, the Ministrys assistance is expressly sought. The Energy Minister must therefore, be understood within this context.



The Ministry implored the public to disregard any attempt to soil the reputation of the Energy Minister whose major preoccupation since assuming office has been to bring to the barest minimum disruptions in power supply and has made the energy sector resilient.



Read full statement below:



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The spokesperson for the onion sellers in Ghana, Yakubu Apendiba, has disclosed that 55 stranded onion trucks in Benin have made it home following intervention by the Ghanaian ambassador to Benin.



According to him, the onion being transported in some 44 trucks went bad because the trucks could not arrive in Ghana on time due to the closure of the border in Niger.



On August 9,2023, stranded traders at the Benin border called on the president, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, to intervene on their behalf to prompt the release of 70 trucks carrying onions from Niger to Ghana through the Benin border.



In an interview with Citi FM, the spokesperson for the onion sellers indicated that since most of the onions have gone bad, they are relying on those from Nigeria which does not last longer compared to the one from Niger.



The Ghana ambassador to Benin went there and spoke to the patrol, and they opened it for just two hours and closed it again and this is affecting our business because the onions are rotten.



About 55 cars have come within the last three days all being forty-footer trucks and all went bad, and so we are now doing the local ones and getting it from Nigeria, but that one doesnt last, he said.



Yakubu Apendiba further noted that the price of onion has reduced slightly because they are procured from Nigeria.



As we started going to Nigeria to bring the Nigeria one, the price has gone down a little bit. We were selling a bag last week for between GH1,600 and GH1,500, but now we are selling a bag between GH1,300 and GH1,200.



Sourcing from Niger is expensive compared to the one that we buy from Nigeria because if you go to buy in Niger, you will not get any place to pass and come to Ghana. All our cars in Niger have all come back to Ghana and nobody is there, and the onions have all rotten, he added.







Source: ghanaweb.com









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The Nigerien junta has reportedly ordered utility supply to the French embassy to be cut, according to reports by a regional security expert.



The president of the National Support Committee for the National Council for the Safeguarding of the Country (CNSP), Elh Issa Hassoumi Boureima, has asked all partners of French bases in Niger to suspend all water and electricity supplies and food products, said the reports.



In addition, any partners who continue to help the French in the process of supplying the goods and services will be considered enemies of the sovereign people, the reports added.



The order to Nigelec, the power distributor and water distributor, Societe d'Exploitation des Eaux du Niger (SEEN), comes days after the junta issued a quit order for the French ambassador.



Even though the order was confirmed, the French government said it would not obey the junta's order and asked its envoy to remain in Niamey.



The ambassador Sylvain Itte was given 48 hours to leave the territory, which time frame elapsed on Sunday.



The junta held a rally on August 26 to mark a month after the overthrow of President Mohamed Bazoum but reports indicate that it was a poorly attended gathering at the national stadium in Niamey and leader of the coup, General Abdouramane Tchiane was conspicuously absent.







Source: ghanaweb.com









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Some residents of Saboba District in the Northern Region last Friday hit the streets to protest the deplorable state of roads in the area.



Clad in red, the protesters held placards with inscriptions some of which read "We are tired of promises", "Fix our roads, we are also Ghanaians ", and "The money in Cecilia Dapaah's room can fix our roads", among others.



Numbering about 1,000, the residents drawn from various parts of the district marched through the deplorable roads to register their displeasure.



They are demanding the immediate fixing of the Saboba-Yendi road and other link roads, which have been in a deplorable state for the past years.



Deplorable roads

Road networks in the Saboba District are in a deplorable state.



Due to the state of the road, criminals take advantage of that and consistently attack and rob traders and other road users of their belongings.



The worst experience is that the residents are often cut off during rainy seasons, which has become a major worry to them.



Currently, roads leading to Saboba and Chereponi from Tamale, Yendi and Wapuli are all inaccessible due to floods and one has to use a canoe to access the areas.



The development has left residents of the area stranded and put emergency services, such as medical referrals, at risk.



The alternative route through the North East Region is not only about three times the duration of the normal journey, but the route is also in a deplorable state and almost unmotorable.



Concerns

Addressing the media after the protest, the Spokesperson of the residents, Jalulah Jagri Maurice, said the poor road network was adversely affecting the district and depriving it of critical services such as education, health care and trade.



He said due to the situation, pregnant women and individuals with medical emergencies requiring referrals to the Yendi Municipal Hospital or Tamale Teaching Hospital were often left stranded resulting in the loss of lives.



While presenting a petition to the government, through the Saboba District Chief Executive (DCE), George Bingrini, he appealed for the immediate fixing of the roads to help improve health care and other socio-economic activities.



Mr Bingrini, after receiving the petition, commended the residents for the peaceful exercise and promised to forward it to the government for the necessary action.





Source: graphiconline.com









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The former Northern Regional Chairman of the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP), Daniel Bugri Naabu, has explained that he recorded a conversation between himself and some senior police officers regarding a plot to remove the current Inspector-General of Police (IGP) in order to protect the interest of his party.



Answering questions regarding the leaked tape when he appeared before a Parliamentary Ad-Hoc Committee which has been tasked to investigate the issue, Bugri Naabu said his decision to record the conversation was to enable him to pass the message unaltered to President Akufo-Addo.



Appearing before the committee on Monday, August 28, 2023,Bugri also indicated that he sought the assistance of someone to do the recording since he could not do it himself.



He named the three senior police officers who visited him and discussed the said plot as Commander Asare, COP Mensah and Superintendent Gyebi.



Explaining how he recorded the conversation, the former NPP Chairman said he bought the recording device at the Accra Mall.



For him, he couldn't have captured everything in his mind, hence his decision to record their conversations so that he will not leave any detail out.



The content of the leaked tape has generated a national discussion considering the nature of the conversation with senior police officers involved.



Following public reaction, Parliament set up the Committee, chaired by the Member of Parliament for Abuakwa South, Samuel Atta-Akyea, to delve into the issue.



The panel has the mandate to investigate both the authenticity of the leaked tape and the intricate allegations that have captured the nations attention.

Source: graphiconline.com









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Mrs. Linda Asante, a Deputy Chief Executive of the National Petroleum Authority (NPA) was, on Friday, August 25, 2023, awarded by The Business Executive as the MOST OUTSTANDING FEMALE IN OIL AND GAS at the 9th Feminine Ghana Achievement Awards, held at the La Palm Beach.



This honour, according to the organizers, was conferred on Mrs Linda Asante in recognition of her stellar contribution to the growth of the nations oil and gas industry having worked in that space for over two decades achieving significant milestones. She is, indeed, the first Female in Ghana to occupy this top Executive position in the nations petroleum downstream sector.



In her brief remarks after receiving this coveted award, Mrs. Linda Asante thanked the organizers for this great honor, and dedicated the award to the board, staff and management of the NPA particularly her immediate boss, the Chief Executive, Dr. Mustapha Abdul-Hamid for being the pillar behind her success. She also made a special mention of her husband, Mr. Bright Kwasi Asante, for his endless support, without forgetting her friends and other family members for their prayers and guidance.



The Feminine Ghana Achievement Awards scheme was established to identify, publicly recognize and reward women in Ghana and across the globe who have achieved outstanding accomplishments in various forms of endeavor across both the public and private sectors, such as entrepreneurs, professionals, corporate executives, diplomats among others.



The Business Executive, organizers of the longest-running annual awards scheme for outstanding conduct and performance among women in Ghana, is a Pan-African media organization and events firm with a track record of successfully organizing awards schemes, international summits and other corporate events across the globe.



The 2023 edition of the awards was held on the theme, Empowering Women to Drive Ghanas Economic Recovery. Other notable awardees included ace broadcaster, Gifty Anti of the Standpoint; Marina Lamptey of the GIPC, Gifty Tetteh, CEO, Africa Women in Energy; Gladys Nana Akua Cobbina, Founder - Glendycob Enterprise; Mrs Adelaide Siaw Agyepong, CEO, American International School.



All the award winners have been admitted to the prestigious Feminine Hall of Fame, which is the top most connective female network platform in Ghana.





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One teenager has been allegedly shot dead by Chinese illegal miners security at Sefwi Abrokofe popularly known as 'Abroad' near Sefwi Boinzan in the Sefwi Juaboso District of the Western North Region.



The shooting by these illegal miners have also led to the injury of two persons who are also teenagers and are in critical condition and are receiving treatment at the St.John's of God Hospital at Sefwi Asafo.



The sad incident happened in the wee hours of Wednesday, 23rd August



One of the surviving teenagers was shot in the tigh whiles the other one was also shot in the back area.



The youth in the town angrily lay ambush and set their excavators ablaze.



Speaking in an interview with UTV News' Western North Regional Correspondent Kwabena Dickson, father of the 17- year-old boy who was shot in the tigh, Mr Nketiah Barnaba's explained that he had a call about the said shooting incident and was informed that, his son had been shot so he rushed quickly to ascertain how true it was.



Unfornately the 18-year-boy according Mr Nketiah passed on and the 16-year-old boy and his son were rushed to the Proso Kofikrom Clinic but was later transfered to the Sefwi Asafo St Johns of God Hospital where they are currently receiving medical attention.



"When we came here, they told us to go and take an X-ray at Sefwi Wiawso and we have done that, so we are waiting for what the Doctor will tell us," Mr Nketiah the father of one of the boys who was shot in the tigh told Kwabena Dickson at the hospital.



"Since we came here, its only the Juaboso District Police Commander who has visited us and given us words of encouragement, aside that no one has come here to see how the victims are responding to treatment," Mr Nketiah Banarba's who is also a Unit Committee member told UTV News.



However, the Auntie of the deceased (name withheld) believes it was a deliberate attempt to kill her son.



"Personally I was at the scene when the Chinese guard shot the gun, he first shot it on the ground and later pointed it at my son and his friends and shot them," she told UTV News' Kwabena Dickson at her residence at Abrokofe.



She also explained that, after killing her son, the police also arrested his elder brother who tried to save his life, adding that the police accused him of inciting the youth in the town to destroy the properties of the Chinese illegal miners, and it took the Assemblyman of Boinzan, Mr Affum Kooko to grant him a bail.



"Since we returned to the house no one has visited us . . . we don't have the financial muscles to challenge them, they want to subject us to injustice and we are therefore appealing to the Inspector General of Police and the high authorities to take up this matter and seek justice for us," the mother of the deceased told UTV News.



Meanwhlie, the Assemblyman of Sefwi Boinzan electoral area, Mr Stephen Affum Kooko, has expressed his outmost disgust about the spate at which illegal mining have been taken over by chinese illegal miners and their Ghanaian counterparts.



He added that school children are dropping out of school due to these invasion of illegal mining activities by these Chinese miners.



Mr Stephen Affum Kooko is therefore appealing to President Akufo-Addo, the Minister of Lands and the security from National to re-activate the 'Operation Halt'.



Currently, Chinese illegal miners have taken over places like Sefwi Boinzan, Mafia, Sefwi Agyemandiem, Asempaneye, Abokofe, Kwawkrom, Bonsu Nkwanta among other areas but seems there's no effort made to apprehend them in their illegal activities.

Source: Kwabena Dickson/ Western North Regional Correspondent, UTV









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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Deputy Minister of Finance Abena Osei Asare says President Akufo Addos proclamation that Alan John Kwadwo Kyerematen will be the next leader after him will be fulfilled on November 4, 2023.



In our party ,there is historic antecedent,that when the leader blesses you as the next leader it comes to pass. Former President Kuffuor, told Akufo-Addo to be patient because after him he will be the next leader ,and indeed it came to pass because we reward long service.



"President Akufo-Addo also told Alan to continue serving in the party that after him he(Alan) is the next to lead. So on November 4, that is what we delegates are going to stand on to vote for Alan Kyerematen, Abena Osei Asare who doubles as Member of Parliament for Atewa East told Journalists in Koforidua.



Alan Kyerematens poor performance in August 26, 2023 super delegates conference placing third position after Kennedy Ohene Agyapong has triggered conversation by some political analysts downplaying his chances of becoming next flagbearer of the NPP.



Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia emerged top position out of the ten candidates with a total of 629 votes, representing 68.15% of the vote.



Assin Central MP Kennedy Agyapong came in second with 132 votes, or 14.30% while former Trade Minister Alan Kyerematen placed third with 95 votes, or 10.29%.



Addai Nimo and Boakye Agyarko will go for rerun on September 2,2023 after a tie of 9 votes each for the winner to join the top four for the November 4,2023 national delegates conference.



However according to the Deputy Finance Minister, the results of the super delegates election is not reflective of sentiment of the grassroot of the party calling on Alan Kyerematen to lead the party since it was few privileged electoral college.



What majority of members of the party are saying is that, this is just like justify your inclusion. The Over 200,000 delegates clamouring for Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen are eager for this process to end for the real deal. The grassroot are those crying for Alan John Kwadwo Kyerematen to lead the party.





Source: starrfm









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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Dr. Kwame Asah Asante, a senior Political Science lecturer at the University of Ghana, has commended Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia on his overwhelming victory in the New Patriotic Party (NPP) Super Delegates Conference on Saturday, August 26.



Vice President Bawumia took the lead by polling 629 votes representing 68.15% of the valid votes cast and his contenders, Kennedy Agyapong and Alan Cash shared the second and third positions by polling 132 and 95 votes respectively.



Dr. Owusu Afriyie-Akoto came fourth with 36 votes whereas Thomas Addai Nimoh and Boakye Agyarko both got 9 votes.



Speaking on Peace FM's "Kokrokoo" show, Dr. Asah Asante was amazed at the huge votes Dr. Bawumia got from the Ashanti Region, Volta and other Regions that many people believed the margin of votes for him would be slim.



Assessing Dr. Bawumia's votes, he concluded that the Vice President "has a national appeal" and, to him, this characteristic will help the Veep in the NPP November 4th election to elect their flagbearer.



Watch video below





Source: Ameyaw Adu Gyamfi/Peacefmonline.com/Ghana









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The Minority in parliament has rejected the Police proposed route for the Bank of Ghana picketing on September 5.



In a letter to the Greater Accra regional police command, COP Dr. Sayibu Pabi Gariba, the Minority leader Cassiel Ato Forson said the proposal in the Police 23rd August, 2023 letter "was not an option discussed with us when my delegation met with you."



"Your attempt to deny us an opportunity to terminate our #OccupyBoG protest at the Headquarters of the Bank of Ghana on the pretext that it is a 'security zone' is untenable, troubling and unwholesome for the Ghana Police Service's motto of Service with Integrity," part of the letter said.



"How is the Bank of Ghana Headquarters designated by the Police as a security zone and the Cedi House, another Bank of Ghana edifice that the Police proposed that we march through not a security zone? I do not want to believe that you are citing or hiding behind "security zone" to thwart our planned protest and for the Poiice to shirk its constitutional duty of providing security for persons who desire to publicly manifest their revulsion and abhorrence at the central bank's reckless managemerit," it added.



The NDC at a press conference dubbed the "Moment of Truth" on August 8, 2023, called for the resignation of the Governor of the Bank of Ghana, Dr Ernest Addison, over alleged mismanagement of the nations central bank.



The party threatened to occupy the central bank if the governor and his team refused to vacate their positions after the 21-day ultimatum.



In this regard, we call for the resignation of the Governor of the central bank and his deputies within 21 days from today," it said.



The call comes after the Annual Report and Financial Statement of the Bank of Ghana (BOG) revealed that the BoG had recorded a loss of GH60.8 billion, which is equivalent to $6 billion and recorded negative equity of over GH55.1 billion.



The Bank of Ghana (BoG) has however justified the construction of a new headquarters, insisting that its current head office, built in the 1960s, is no longer fit for purpose.



Read attached the Minority's full statement

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Source: Peacefmonline.com









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Ukrainian Defense Minister Oleksiy Reznikov said the information published in the Western media about the alleged "conflict" between Ukraine and partners regarding the offensive strategy is not true.

"I can absolutely say that there is no conflict. This assumption of the Western press is erroneous and far-fetched. There is no conflict, there is friendly working communication, systemic consultations," Reznikov told reporters on Monday.

Reznikov also said "systemically" meetings of Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Valeriy Zaluzhny with colleagues are taking place. At the same time, the minister said Zaluzhny does not leave the territory of Ukraine.

"Everything is going according to the plan, which was, inter alia, discussed with the partners in advance," Reznikov said.
Hon. Alex Segbefia, Director of International Rations of the National Democratic Congress has applauded the SA NDC Chapter for their monumental contributions, outperforming their peers across the world.



In my capacity as the Director of International Relations of the NDC, "I deal with over 30 or 40 countries and South Africa stands tall. What they have been able to achieve in this short space of time is commendable", averred Mr. Segbefia



He made these remarks when the SA NDC Women's Wing donated assorted food items to the Eye of the Lord Orphanage on Sunday, August, 27, 2023 at Nsawam Adoagyiri Constituency of the Eastern Region



According to Mr. Segbefia, the idea to support an orphanage run by a visually impaired person is very remarkable.



"We're in an orphanage, headed by someone who is visually impaired, ironic... That people who don't have parents are being looked after by somebody who is visually impaired and people in South Africa decided that they would come to honour the orphanage. It's a true spirit of what Ghanaians are", he stated and added, "It's a true reflection of what God can do", an emotional NDC Director of International Relations stated.



According to him, it's very instructive the name of the orphanage is the "Eye of the Lord", ".... for someone who doesn't see and has decided to let children who don't have parents see for him. I was actually quite touched that this was the choice South Africa decided to come and make a donation to", he solemnly stated.



Mr. Alex Segbefia took the opportunity to thank the NDC South African Chapter especially the Women's Wing in particular for the honour done the orphanage. "What you've done is in order and very commendable", but was quick to add that what happened at the NPP's Super Delegates' Conference signals that some people don't have the interest of Ghana at heart.



He also thanked the Chairman, Mohammed Bukari, Prof DK Maduku Vice chairman, Nuhu Baba Andani, General Secretary, Mrs Wilbertina Bah-Buxton Women Organizer, Mr David Ntakpe, Acting Organizer, Mr Martin Adeku Treasurer, Mr Benjamin Djan, youth Organizer, Mr Fred Ananie Norgbey, Communication Director for their contributions in making SA NDC Chapter stand out amongst the rest.



"Change is coming, but it would not come easy. So, everybody should brace themselves for what is to come", he ended.

Source: Peacefmonline.com









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A former Chairman of the Peoples National Convention (PNC), Bernard Mornah, has cautioned Vice President, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, against complacency despite securing a convincing win in the New Patriotic Partys (NPP) super delegates conference.



He disclosed that upon his interaction with some NPP grassroots in the Upper West Region, they were not impressed with the vice presidents bid to become the flagbearer of the party, because he contributed to the hardship the Akufo-Addo-led government has inflicted on Ghanaians.



The former PNC chairman warned that if the vice presidents campaign team relaxes its efforts because of the outcome of the Super Delegates Conference, they might end up losing the special delegates congress slated for November 4.



Speaking in a panel discussion on TV3 on August 28, 2023, Bernard Mornah urged Dr. Bawumia and his team to do a thorough scrutiny of the elections and focus on convincing the grassroots to seal his victory as the flagbearer of the NPP.



In my opinion, the vice presidents office should be worried. His campaign team should do a thorough review because what transpired [at the super delegates conference] does not mean it would be the same result on November 4, it won't be. The last time I went to the Upper West region, most of the NPP members who will partake in the November 4 elections didnt have the same mindset as President Akufo-Addo but they couldnt speak. Because they were waiting for the super delegates conference to come to an end.



"After interacting with some of them [NPP members], they said that if the governance of President Akufo-Addo is not going well, then the vice president is part and cant dissociate himself from it and say his ideas werent heeded by Akufo-Addo, he noted.



Background



Vice President, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia emerged as the leading contender of the New Patriotic Party Super Delegates Conference.



Per the results, Dr Bawumia garnered 629 votes representing 68.15 percent of the total votes cast. The results are based on figures collated by 17 out 17 voting centres across the country.



Behind him was Assin Central lawmaker, Kennedy Agyapong who polled 132 votes representing 14.30 percent while Alan Kyerematen polled 95 votes representing 10.29 percent in the elections which took place on Saturday August 26, 2023.



Dr. Owusu Afriyie Akoto secured the fourth spot for the partys presidential primaries with 36 votes representing 3.90%.



Boakye Agyarko and Francis Addai-Nimoh tied in 5th position with 9 votes each representing 0.98%.



Other candidates who contested in the elections were Joe Ghartey with 4 votes, Kwadwo Poku with 3 votes, Kwabena Agyepong with 5 votes while Dr Kofi Konadu Apraku failed to secure a single vote.



The Super Delegates Conference is aimed at reducing the pool of contenders vying for the party's presidential candidacy in the upcoming 2024 general election.



Ten candidates from the NPP participated in the race, with the objective of selecting five candidates who will proceed to another round of voting in November this year



The final round will determine the substantive candidate of the NPP for the presidential election ahead of the 2024 general elections.







Source: ghanaweb.com









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Two people were arrested Monday after police found 14 sick or malnourished dogs along with the carcasses of at least 30 dogs inside a home in Burlington County, New Jersey, authorities said.

A child living in the Evesham home was removed due to unhealthy conditions and placed in the custody of the state Division of Child Protection and Permanency, according to police.

Rebecca Halbach, 35, and Brandon Leconey, 32, were charged with second-degree endangering the welfare of a child and third-degree animal cruelty.

Evesham police responded Monday to a report of multiple dogs living inside a house in the 600 block of Main Street. Officers found both live and dead dogs inside the residence, along with several cats and rabbits, according to Evesham police Chief Walt Miller.

Miller said officers found more than 30 dead dogs throughout the living space of the home.

Miller said an investigation showed that up to 100 dogs died in the home, including many believed to have been buried on the property.

Nine dogs were taken to a animal hospital, and one dog was in such poor health that it had to be euthanized, Miller said.

Halbach and Leconey, the two adults living in the home, were arrested. Leconey was held in the Burlington County Jail, while Halbach was being evaluated for a medical condition, Miller said.

No attorney information was immediately available for Halbach and Leconey.

Investigators armed with a search warrant continued gathering evidence from the home on Tuesday, the chief said, adding that the ongoing search is likely to lead to additional charges.

Anthony G. Attrino may be reached at tattrino@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @TonyAttrino. Find NJ.com on Facebook.
Police are looking for a man they say crashed into a motorcycle in York County last month and fled the scene, leaving the motorcyclist alone with serious injuries.

Travis M. Seiple, 38, of Windsor, crashed head-on into a motorcycle around 5:21 p.m. July 31 on the 300 block of Red Front Road in Lower Windsor Township, police said.

Seiple fled the scene afterward, leaving the motorcyclist severely injured in the middle of the road, police said.

Police on Thursday charged Seiple with aggravated assault by vehicle, accidents involving death or injury, driving with a suspended license, as well as a number of related offenses.

Seiple remains at large as of Tuesday. Police said he is driving a maroon 1999 Ford Contour Sport sedan, with Pennsylvania registration LXX-2595. There is damage to the cars passenger-side front corner panel, as well as the hood, police said.

Police said Seiple stays at many addresses in Windsor, Red Lion, Felton and Brogue.

Anyone with information on Seiples whereabouts can call Lower Windsor police at 717-244-8055 or submit a tip through CrimeWatch.

READ MORE: Puppy that had been severely beaten moved to central Pa. SPCA

Cumberland County fire truck rolls on its way to house fire
A 21-year-old was under the influence, driving the wrong way and at nearly double the speed limit before a February crash that killed another driver in Lebanon County, police said.

Rubin Montero, 21, of Lebanon, was charged with vehicular homicide on Friday in connection to a Feb. 18, 2023, crash that killed Josha Josh Bartal, 25, at North Eighth Avenue and East Cumberland Street in Lebanon.

Surveillance footage from a McDonalds restaurant at the intersection recorded Montero speeding west on East Cumberland Street (Route 422) in a Nissan SUV around 5:18 a.m., according to an affidavit of probable cause.

Montero was driving 68 mph in a 35 mph zone at the time of the crash, according to the affidavit.

Monteros SUV hit a traffic island  the area in the middle of a road where pedestrians can wait to cross  and went airborne before crashing into the Subaru SUV that Bartal was driving, the affidavit said.

Court documents said the force of the crash pushed Bartals Subaru into a grassy area by East Walnut and East Cumberland streets.

Police said Bartal was clearly deceased inside the heavily damaged SUV when officers arrived. The Lebanon County Coroners Office later determined Bartal died from rapid, non-survivable injuries to his head and neck.

Monteros Nissan also crashed into a utility pole before coming to a rest, police said. Montero  who police say had glassy and bloodshot eyes  refused medical treatment, according to court documents.

A witness who was eating in the McDonalds before the crash told police they ran to the Nissan and found Montero sitting in the drivers seat, staring straight ahead, with his foot still pressed down on the gas. A fire had started in the Nissan, and the witness said they had to bang on the window several times to get Monteros attention, according to court documents.

The hood of Monteros sweatshirt was pulled tightly over his face and mouth when he initially talked to investigators, police wrote in the affidavit. Police said they smelled alcohol on Monteros breath after asking him to remove the hood.

At first, Montero denied drinking before the crash, but later told police he had about two hours prior at a relatives Myerstown home. He said he smoked marijuana around the same time, according to the affidavit.

Police said surveillance cameras showed Montero narrowly missed a head-on collision with another vehicle before crashing into Bartals SUV.

Police said Montero fell asleep in the back of the police cruiser on the way to Good Samaritan Hospital for a blood draw. He fell asleep several more times while at the hospital.

Montero told investigators he believed he fell asleep before the crash, but that he did not remember anything that happened, the affidavit said.

His blood alcohol concentration was .178%, more than twice Pennsylvanias legal limit of .08%, according to the affidavit.

Online court records show Montero was unable to post $250,000 bail and is being held at the Lebanon County Prison. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for Sept. 7 in front of Magisterial District Judge Anthony Verna.

Bartals obituary said a Lebanon High School graduate who worked as a stock assistant at Home Depot. He enjoyed video games, woodworking and carpentry. He is survived by five siblings, his parents and a number of other family members.

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PHILADELPHIA  A motorcyclist died over the weekend after being shot by a Cadillac driver in the heart of Philadelphias historic area after a group of bikers blocked the drivers way, according to Philadelphia police.

The Saturday night shooting steps from the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall, the nations birthplace, focused new attention on the gun violence plaguing the city and the nation. Police believe the driver and the biker group traded fire, but they are not yet sure who fired first, a spokesperson said.

Unfortunately, our countrys gun problem means disputes can turn deadly, needlessly cutting young lives short, Mayor Jim Kenney said in a social media post, attributing the violence to a road rage dispute.

The 36-year-old driver, who has not been identified, was shot in the arm and took himself to a hospital, where he was treated before being released Sunday, police spokeswoman Tanya Little said. No charges have been filed, but the shooting remains under investigation. Police identified the motorcycle rider as 29-year-old Angel Luis Rios of the citys Frankford section. He was shot twice in the torso and pronounced dead at a nearby hospital just before 9:30 p.m.

Before police arrived, National Park Service rangers who patrol the historic area briefly detained a 24-year-old man who allegedly fired at the Cadillac. City homicide investigators are now in charge of the case. Little did not know when a decision on charges would be made.

We are grateful to the Philadelphia Police Department who responded quickly to the situation and kept it from escalating, the mayor said.

The shooting occurred on a warm summer evening in an area dotted with cobblestone streets that is popular with tourists, residents and restaurant goers, many of whom dine outside.

It was just one of a spate of shootings across the city over the weekend. In north Philadelphia, a 39-year-old man was shot five times and died shortly after 5 a.m. Sunday. Two other men were also critically wounded by gunshots. Police called all three men the victims of a triple shooting.

Maryclaire Dale of The Associated Press wrote this story.

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Police accused Donald Haney, Jr. of making a U-turn that blocked an intersection, causing a state police vehicle to crash May 19.

But Haneys attorney, Brian Perry, questioned the real cause of the crash.

Haney, 61, waived his preliminary hearing Tuesday afternoon after prosecutors showed Perry they had enough evidence to bind the charges over to Cumberland County Court.

Police charged Haney this month with two counts of aggravated assault by a vehicle  both felonies  and summary offenses of failure to yield to an emergency vehicle, failure to abide by duties at a stop sign and making an unsafe U-turn have passed to Cumberland County Court.

The main issue in this case going forward will be determining who caused the crash, Perry said.

Haney Jr., of York, blocked all five lanes of Carlisle Pike on May 19, when state troopers Kaleb Reitz and Clay Forcey were racing down the pike to intercept three men who were later charged with retail theft.

The state troopers hit Haneys trailer, resulting in the cruiser being crushed. Reitz suffered extensive bone fractures and wounds on his face, while Forcey suffered a significant fracture at the top of his spine. Both are still recovering, according to state police spokesperson Megan Frazer.

Theyre saying he made an unsafe U-turn, but at issue is what caused the accident, Perry said. Was it the U-turn, or the speed of the state police vehicle?

Troopers Reitz and Forcey were driving down the Carlisle Pike at 92-93 miles-per-hour the afternoon of the crash, the prosecutions crash reconstruction expert witness said according to Perry.

The areas posted speed limit was 45 miles-per-hour, and that the crash occurred just down the street from Cumberland Valley High School.

The troopers braked hard, only decelerating to 72 miles-per-hour at the moment of impact with Haneys tractor trailer truck, according to Perry.

Mister Haney is a nice, hard working man who has never been in any trouble and feels terrible about the accident, Perry said. He hopes the troopers recover from their injuries quickly.

Haney has been released without needing to post any bond.

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ORLANDO, Fla.  Tram service is returning to Disneys Hollywood Studios and Epcot theme parks sometime in September, Walt Disney World says.

The transportation system that carries visitors from the parking lots to the front gates was suspended when the resort reopened from its four-month pandemic shutdown in 2020. Park-goers have walked that span when the trams were not in operation. The open-air rides returned to Magic Kingdom in late 2021, then at Disneys Animal Kingdom in early 2022.

In December 2021, Disney said that tram service would return to all four parks over 2022. In the meantime, there has been resurfacing, renumbering and renaming of some of the lots.

Disney has not announced a precise date for the return of the Epcot and Hollywood Studios trams.

The standard parking fee for Disney parks is currently $25 for cars and motorcycles or $30 for oversized vehicles such as RVs and buses. Preferred parking is available for $45 to $50 per day. Standard theme park parking is included for registered guests at Disney World hotels and for some annual passholders.

Disney World continues to list several stores, restaurants and activities as temporarily unavailable on its website in the wake of pandemic. They are spread across all four parks and at some resorts. Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach water parks have alternated being in operation since the latter reopened in the summer of 2021. Blizzard Beach currently is closed for refurbishment.

Dewayne Bevil of the Orlando Sentinel wrote this story.

2023 Orlando Sentinel. Visit at orlandosentinel.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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A Greek restaurant in Derry Township is moving into a bigger building with plans to expand its menu.

Simply Greek announced it is relocating to the former Dafnos Italian Grille at 1900 W. Chocolate Ave. in Derry Township. An opening date has not been announced.

We are so happy to announce that we will be moving into a larger location to be able to accommodate even more of our amazing guests. But dont worry, we arent going far, reads an announcement posted on Facebook.

Simply Greek opened in early 2020 at 23 Briarcrest Square, where it continues to operate and is owned by cousins, George Tsambas and John Agroustakis.

Dafnos Italian Grille closed in December 2022 at 1190 W. Chocolate Ave. in Derry Township. File photo by Dan Gleiter | dgleiter@pennlive.com

The restaurant grew out of Deliver Me Greek, a virtual restaurant founded in 2019 by Tsambas. He prepared traditional Greek food such as souvlaki, falafel burgers and Greek salads from the prep kitchen at his familys Soda Jerk Diner & Family Restaurant in Hummelstown.

At Simply Greeks new location, the owners said they will expand its menu to include more authentic Greek dishes, along with beer and wine. In the message, they thanked customers for their support over the years.

Over the past five years, from our conception as a ghost kitchen out of the Soda Jerk Diner, to surviving through Covid at our current location, we couldnt have done any of it without our loyal customers and dedicated staff, they said.

The Dafnos property became available after the restaurant closed in late December 2022 after a nearly 23-year run.

READ MORE:
That Bordeleau Vineyards and Winery won Best of Show in the 18th annual Atlantic Seaboard Wine Association (ASWA) Competition speaks to the nonstop work of co-owner and winemaker Tom Shelton.

One of Marylands most southernmost wineries, Bordeleau Vineyards has been among the states most consistent quality producers, and the long list of awards on its website certainly attests to the success that Shelton has had with a number of grapes.

The fact that he won the competition with a Petit Verdot also makes a statement about a grape that no longer belongs to just Virginia, where it has been grown for a number of years and well-recognized in many of that states tasting rooms.

Grant Crandall, president of the association, noted in the press release he sent out Monday that Petit Verdot as a single varietal wine is becoming far more common on the East Coast, and the example from Bordeleau is a particularly fine example.

Crandall told PennLive on Monday that he has watched the grape become a bigger part of the North Carolina and Maryland industries, particularly for those (wineries) looking for a heavy red wine, for something California-esque heavy red to fill out their portfolio. To some extent, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Tannat can fill that need, but more and more Petit Verdot has secured that niche in the mid-Atlantic region, he said.

Traditionally used as a minor blending grape in the Bordeaux wine blend, it continues to play a bigger role as a varietal and in blends throughout the region.

This years Virginias Governors Case, he said, is unique in one sense. Ive never seen it go this far. Of the 12 wines in the case, four are varietal Petit Verdots and four others that are Bordeaux blends have a fair amount of Petit Verdot in them. Its really kind of shifted in importance in the last couple of years. That varietal use is what has increased massively, he continued.

But the amount being used in Bordeaux blends also has risen, from maybe 10 percent in the past to where its a more significant part of the blend, upwards of 25 percent, he noted.

Its a grape that has continued to spread its reach, with several wineries in Pennsylvania (Cadenza, in York County, and Karamoor, in Montgomery County) and New Jersey (Hawk Haven, in Cape May County) all making it as a varietal.

Bordeleau Vineyards and Winery is located at 3155 Noble Farm Road in Eden, Maryland. That's about 10 minutes south of Salisbury, Maryland.

Just south of the Delaware border in Maryland, Bordeleau is located on Wicomico Creek, between the Cheasapeake Bay and Atlantic Ocean. Climate conditions provided by these bodies of water mimic those of Bordeaux, the ancestral home of the Petit Verdot grape.

The 1,100-acre farm produces corn, soy and wheat, but the vineyard  nearest Sheltons home  is where he finds his greatest satisfaction. The Petit Verdot vines were planted in 2007/08 and all the fruit in the winning wine came from the estate. Most unusual is that Tom is crafting a non-vintage blend; Lot Number 3 Petit Verdot is a blend of selected barrels from three vintages.

The weather in California is pretty reliable, Shelton told the association after hearing that his wine won the competition. But here in Maryland you can have a great vintage, a less-than-great vintage, and maybe even a poor vintage every now and then. By combining vintages, he takes out the swings to create a consistent, high quality wine.

Grapes from the 2015, 2016 and 2019 make up the winning wine.

Once the grapes were picked, they were sorted and left to chill for a day or two. Fermentation followed. The wine then aged in French and American oak, carefully balanced between new and used barrels to coax the best flavors from the grapes, he explained. To create the final blend, he tasted through each individual barrel to determine the best lots, with the lesser wines going into his sweet wine program.

It aged in barrels for 54 months.

The winemaker notes read this way: Good color and outstanding phenolics define the wine. A gentle, floral aroma is complemented by flavors of chocolate, blackberries, and dark cherries with a touch of smoke and leather on the palate. The extended aging contributes firm, but not harsh, tannin.

It sells for $22/bottle, according to the website.

Thinking of visiting the winery? Its located at 3155 Noble Farm Road. Hours are 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday through Friday and 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Monday and Tuesday are available by appointment only. Wine tasting flights cost $18 and beer tasting flights cost $12. Some food, including pizza, is available for purchase.

A panel of 16 judges from seven different states scored 455 wines made in the eastern United States over the two-day event in early August. The Bordeaux Petit Verdot was selected from among 31 Best of Category Winners.

Overall, there were 72 gold medal winners, with 11 states represented.

Eleven different states were represented in the competition with New York, Virginia and Pennsylvania being the top three. Heres a link to the list of medal-winning wines.

ASWAs mission is to promote the wines of the eastern U.S.

Bordeleau Vineyards and Winery is open 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday through Friday and 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.

The organization hosts an awards ceremony on Capitol Hill every year after the completion of the competition under the auspices of the Congressional Wine Caucus. The sterling silver perpetual Jefferson Loving Cup, will be engraved with the winning winerys name and presented to the Best of Show winner.

The award-winning wines are also showcased at the Unified Wine and Grape Symposium in Sacramento, California, the countrys leading wine industry convention, in addition to being poured elsewhere around the country as opportunities for exposure are identified.

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Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, in a conversation with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, assured of Japan's continued support for Ukraine, which is resisting Russian aggression.

After holding phone talks with the president, Kishida told reporters at his office that Zelenskyy expressed gratitude for Japan's efforts to provide assistance to Ukraine, The Japan Times reported.

Their talk comes ahead of the Group of 20 summit in India next month, where Kishida plans to confirm the importance of assistance for Ukraine and ongoing sanctions against Russia with other leaders. Russia is expected to attend the gathering, the ezine says.

During talks on the sidelines of the Group of Seven summit in May in Hiroshima, Kishida told Zelenskyy that Japan would supply some 100 vehicles from its Self-Defense Forces, including small trucks and material carriers, to Ukraine as part of its assistance.

Arrangements are also being made to hold a conference on Ukraine's reconstruction in Japan early next year.

The G20 summit in Delhi is scheduled for September 9-10.
A gun owned by Elvis Presley was recently sold for almost $200,000 by an Illinois auction house.

Rock Island Auction Company said the flashy engraved Smith & Wesson Model 53 sold for $199,750 during its three-day premier auction held Aug. 25-27, 2023 that had a total of $21 million in sales.

The gun, the auction company said, was estimated to bring between $60,000 and $90,000.

The collectibles market has been experiencing unprecedented growth in several genres, said RIAC President Kevin Hogan. When you combine two of those genres, Elvis memorabilia and collector firearms, the result is tremendous excitement and high totals at auction.

The gun is adorned with a bicentennial theme by Master Engraver Russell Smith and was delivered to Presley just months before he died on Aug. 16, 1977.

Rock Island Auction said in 2017 it sold a Colt Python belonging to Presley for $172,500 and his Smith & Wesson Model 19-2 for $195,500.

The auction house said the sales demonstrate the value of guns linked to historic figures and pop culture icons in the current collectibles market. In 2022, Rock Island Auction said it sold the only surviving blaster originally used by Harrison Ford as Han Solo in Star Wars: A New Hope for $1,057,500, and the previous year the auction house sold a revolver owned by John Wayne and seen in some of the stars feature films for $517,500.

Presley was born on Jan. 8, 1935, with his twin brother, who was stillborn. He died on Aug. 16, 1977, before he was scheduled to perform at Hersheypark Arena on Sept. 25, 1977.

His only child, Lisa Marie Presley, died on Jan. 12 of this year from a bowel obstruction. One of Lisa Maries children, Benjamin Keough, killed himself on July 12, 2020.
The fact that the cost to go to college has soared in recent years is a much discussed topic.

But as with all things, some states are cheaper to attend higher education in than others. Pennsylvania just isnt one of them.

Scholaroo  a platform comprised a team of scholarship professionals working around the clock and around the globe to help you pay for college  lifted data from both public and private colleges across the country to fully form an analysis of each states average cost.

The final analysis calculated Pennsylvanias average college tuition cost to be $48,036  an average $39,013 for public schools and $51,458 for private institutions  a price which deemed the Keystone State as the state with the eight overall most expensive college costs in the country.

Then again, you could be interested in going to school in Rhode Island, which was found to be the absolute dearest one: Public and private school tuitions were found to cost $56,581 and $41,618, respectively, for a total average cost of $60,671.

Education is a cornerstone of progress and opportunity, empowering individuals to achieve their dreams and contribute meaningfully to society, the study reads. As the importance of higher education continues to grow, the cost of attending college has become a critical concern for students, families, and policymakers alike.

North Dakota was the cheapest state as far as tuition goes with a total average price tag of $25,944.
Giving off major Jurassic Park vibes, a creature captured in Mississippi broke the record for the longest alligator ever captured in the state.

While its length  14 feet, 3 inches  is astonishing, so too is its mass. The alligator captured on the second day of Mississippis hunting season weighed 802.5 pounds with a belly girth of 66 inches, according to the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks.

The previous record came in 2017 when a group bagged an alligator that was 14 feet, 0.75 inches and weighed 766.5 pounds, according to Super Talk Mississippi News.

The department said the record alligator was harvested Saturday, Aug. 26, by the foursome of Tanner White, Don Woods, Will Thomas and Joey Clark. Red Antler Processing said the hunters found the monster in the Yazoo River.

Nightmare material! one woman commented on Facebook.

I cant even start to imagine something out there that big, another commenter said.

It took the group seven hours to land the alligator onto their boat, Woods told the Clarion Ledger. He called the outing mentally exhausting.

We hooked him eight or nine times and he kept breaking off, Woods said, according to the outlet. He would go down, sit and then take off. He kept going under logs. He knew what he was doing. The crazy thing is he stayed in that same spot.

Alligator hunting season in public waters is from Aug. 25 to Sept. 4 in Mississippi. The state first offered alligator sport hunting in 2005.

Mike Stunson of The Idaho Statesman wrote this story.

2023 The Idaho Statesman. Visit idahostatesman.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
ROME  Pope Francis has blasted the backwardness of some conservatives in the U.S. Catholic Church, saying they have replaced faith with ideology and that a correct understanding of Catholic doctrine allows for change over time.

Francis comments were an acknowledgment of the divisions in the U.S. Catholic Church, which has been split between progressives and conservatives who long found support in the doctrinaire papacies of St. John Paul II and Benedict XVI, particularly on issues of abortion and same-sex marriage.

Many conservatives have blasted Francis emphasis instead on social justice issues such as the environment and the poor, while also branding as heretical his opening to letting divorced and civilly remarried Catholics receive the sacraments.

Francis made the comments in a private meeting with Portuguese members of his Jesuit religious order while visiting Lisbon on Aug. 5; the Jesuit journal La Civilta Cattolica, which is vetted by the Vatican secretariat of state, published a transcript of the encounter Monday.

During the meeting, a Portuguese Jesuit told Francis that he had suffered during a recent sabbatical year in the United States because he came across many Catholics, including some U.S. bishops, who criticized Francis 10-year papacy as well as todays Jesuits.

The 86-year-old Argentine acknowledged his point, saying there was a very strong, organized, reactionary attitude in the U.S. church, which he called backward. He warned that such an attitude leads to a climate of closure, which was erroneous.

Doing this, you lose the true tradition and you turn to ideologies to have support. In other words, ideologies replace faith, he said.

The vision of the doctrine of the church as a monolith is wrong, he added. When you go backward, you make something closed off, disconnected from the roots of the church, which then has devastating effects on morality.

I want to remind these people that backwardness is useless, and they must understand that theres a correct evolution in the understanding of questions of faith and morals, that allows for doctrine to progress and consolidate over time.

Francis has previously acknowledged the criticism directed at him from some U.S. conservatives, once quipping that it was an honor to be attacked by Americans.

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A 73-year-old woman who looked after her elderly mother before she died is being charged with neglect of care.

Court documents say Sharon Moore was the primary caretaker for her mother, Louise Bortner, who lived on the first block of Longview Drive in Cumberland Township, Adams County.

According to a criminal complaint, Bortner was taken to the hospital on April 27, 2023, with a wound on her right hip that had exposed tendons and bone. She died at the hospital the next day from sepsis due to ulcer infection, the affidavit says.

Welfare checks had been made at Bortners home in January and March regarding poor living conditions, according to court documents.

Police obtained a search warrant for Bortners home and said extreme hoarding conditions forced emergency responders to remove Bortner through a side window when taking her to the hospital, the affidavit says.

Officers said large piles of trash and multiple vehicles were covering the property, and every room inside the house had garbage piled several feet high with only a skinny trail to Bortners bedroom.

Large amounts of mice droppings, jars filled with urine, rotten food, maggots and human waste were found throughout the house, court documents say.

The Pennsylvania Department of Aging made efforts to move Bortner into assisted living, clean up the house or provide general assistance, but Moore denied all of the offers.

Court documents say the last time Bortner was seen by her primary care physician before being admitted to the hospital in April was in August 2022.

Moore is charged with one felony count of neglect of care of a dependent person and has a preliminary hearing scheduled for Sept. 20.

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A 21-year-old man is facing numerous charges, including homicide by vehicle, following a fatal crash in February.

Officers were dispatched to the scene of the crash at the intersection of East Walnut and East Cumberland streets on Feb. 18 at 5:23 a.m., according to South Lebanon County police.

At the scene, officers found two vehicles involved in the crash. Police said one of the vehicles, a black Nissan SUV, was operated by Rubin Montero, 21, of Lebanon. The other vehicle, a gray Subaru SUV, was operated by Joshua Bartal, 25, of Lebanon, who sustained fatal injuries and died at the scene. Montero was not injured.

According to the affidavit of probable cause obtained by Fox 43, an officer obtained surveillance footage of the crash from a nearby McDonalds. Police said it showed Bartal driving north on East Walnut Street and coming to a stop sign at East Cumberland Street. At the same time, Montero was seen speeding west on East Cumberland Street before striking a traffic island and going airborne, crashing into Bartal on the south side of the street, police said.

After being interviewed, Montero was placed under arrest for suspicion of DUI and transported to a local hospital for a blood test, where it was determined he was under the influence of alcohol or a controlled substance after a sobriety test was performed.

At the scene, officers discovered Montero had an active warrant for his arrest by the Pennsylvania State Police.

Montero later told police at the hospital that he had fallen asleep while driving and claimed that the other car had crashed before his car struck the utility pole.

After further investigation, police determined Bartals fatal injuries were caused by Montero driving on the wrong side of the road at nearly double the posted speed limit while under the influence of alcohol and marijuana.

Montero has been charged with homicide by vehicle while under the influence, homicide by vehicle, involuntary manslaughter, recklessly endangering another person, general impairment, DUI: highest rate of alcohol, driving under the influence of a controlled substance, DUI combination of alcohol and drugs, reckless driving and careless driving.

Montero is currently at Lebanon County Prison after he was unable to post the $250,000 bail.

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Sixty years ago the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his I Have a Dream speech at the March on Washington.

Students from St. Stephens Episcopal School today celebrated the anniversary of the march with a march of their own, from the school to the The Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. City Government Center in Harrisburg.

The students honor those who made history and to make their voices heard to continue to call for improvements in justice and equity in the modern era.

The Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. stood before 260,000 people at the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C. on this day in 1963.

He was the last speaker and planned to talk for four minutes.

He spoke for 16 minutes and strayed from his prepared remarks in what would become one of the most famous orations of the civil rights movement  and of human history, according to history.com.

The civil rights leader made the iconic I Have a Dream speech at the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom on Aug. 28, 1963.

The march and rally drew about 260,000 people, according to the NAACP. The event was organized by civil rights leaders aimed at outrage over racial inequities. Plans developed, according to history.com, after the violent attacks on civil rights demonstrators in Birmingham, Ala., in the spring of 1963.

This is the part of the speech when King talked about the dream.

So even though we face the difficulties of today and tomorrow, I still have a dream. It is a dream deeply rooted in the American dream. I have a dream that one day this nation will rise up and live out the true meaning of its creed: We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal.

I have a dream that one day on the red hills of Georgia, the sons of former slaves and the sons of former slave owners will be able to sit down together at the table of brotherhood.

I have a dream that one day even the state of Mississippi, a state sweltering with the heat of injustice, sweltering with the heat of oppression will be transformed into an oasis of freedom and justice.

I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character. I have a dream today.

I have a dream that one day down in Alabama with its vicious racists, with its governor having his lips dripping with the words of interposition and nullification, one day right down in Alabama little Black boys and Black girls will be able to join hands with little white boys and white girls as sisters and brothers. I have a dream today.

I have a dream that one day every valley shall be exalted, every hill and mountain shall be made low, the rough places will be made plain, and the crooked places will be made straight, and the glory of the Lord shall be revealed, and all flesh shall see it together, King said.

King ended the speech with these words - " ... when we allow freedom ring, when we let it ring from every village and every hamlet, from every state and every city, we will be able to speed up that day when all of Gods children, Black men and white men, Jews and Gentiles, Protestants and Catholics, will be able to join hands and sing in the words of the old Negro spiritual: Free at last. Free at last. Thank God almighty, we are free at last.

On July 2, 1964, President Lyndon Johnson signed the Civil Rights Act of 1964. On Dec. 10 of the same year, King was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize. He was 35 at the time and was the youngest man to ever receive the prize.

On March 7, 1965, Bloody Sunday, the Selma to Montgomery March turned violent when the group tried to cross the Edmund Pettus Bridge as police beat the marchers.

On Aug. 6, 1965, President Johnson signed the Voting Rights Act of 1965.

Three years later, King, 39, was assassinated.

On April 4, 1968, King was in Memphis, Tenn., with the Southern Christian Leadership Conference to support a sanitation workers strike. He was shot as he stood on the balcony of the Lorraine Hotel talking with Jesse Jackson and a musician, Ben Branch.

He was rushed to a hospital but died just a little more than an hour after being shot.

King was killed by a single shot fired by James Earl Ray from a rooming house across the street.

READ MORE:
Three former employees of The Hershey Company sued the company last week for its COVID-19 vaccine mandate that resulted in them getting fired.

Benjamin Stoffel, Cheryl Malovic, and Jennifer Gurdock are suing the company for religious discrimination on the basis that the companys policy did not accommodate their religious beliefs against receiving the COVID-19 vaccination, according to the joint lawsuit filed by Andrea Shaw.

Thomas Seltzner, a former senior manager in The Hershey Company, is also suing The Hershey Company in federal court on the grounds that he was terminated due to his religious beliefs.

In the latest lawsuit, all three were corporate employees who worked remotely throughout the pandemic, and filed religious exemptions to the companys vaccination mandate, which was issued in fall of 2021.

Each exemption was denied because the company said accommodating their religious beliefs would create an undue hardship, the lawsuit said.

The Hershey Company designated the departures of Gurdock and Stoffels as voluntary resignation or resignation without good cause, which prevented them from collecting retirement benefits, a bonus for the previous year and unemployment compensation, the lawsuit said.

The company also offered all three money if they waived all legal claims, but they did not accept it. The lawsuit did not say how much the company offered them.

The Hershey Companys vaccine mandate applied to corporate employees but did not extend to retail and manufacturing employees, nor employees of Chocolate World, according to the lawsuit.

The lawsuit accused Hershey of allowing its manufacturing employees to vote on whether or not they should implement a vaccination mandate, and said the department never implemented one due to overwhelmingly low support among employees.

On March 4, 2022, after firing Malovic and Stoffel but before firing Gurdock, the Hershey Company updated its vaccine policy to allow unvaccinated employees to enter its offices if they met certain accommodations. The company did not offer this as an option to Malovic, Stoffel or Gurdock.

Malovic, of Ponte Vedra, Florida, joined the company as a corporate meeting planner in 2013 and was later promoted to senior sourcing specialist for marketing before being fired in 2022.

Malovic argued that her body is a temple of the Holy Spirit and that the Bible directs her to guard what she places in her body as a way to glorify God. She also said she believes the human body has a natural immune system, and that she believes the Bible directs her to avoid knowingly receiving foreign toxins with harmful or unknown effects.

The COVID-19 vaccine endured clinical trials involving tens of thousands of study participants to determine if it was safe and effective before it received emergency authorization for its use, according to the FDA.

Gurdock, of Lancaster, started working for Hershey in 2010 and was later promoted to customer sales executive in 2021. Stoffel, of Hershey, began working for the company in 1994 and as the Senior Director of U.S. Convenience, he was on a succession plan for the position of Vice President and GM Small Format in the company.

Both Gurdock and Stoffel are Roman Catholic and refused the COVID-19 vaccine because they believed the vaccine was created, tested or manufactured using aborted fetus tissue.

The COVID-19 vaccine does not contain fetal cells or fetal tissues.

However, the vaccine was tested using fetal cell lines, which are grown in laboratories from cells taken from aborted fetal tissue that was collected in the 1970s and 80s, according to the National Institute of Health. The tissue reproduces indefinitely and the tissue used to test the vaccine was not the original tissue collected.

The Vatican previously announced it is morally acceptable to receive COVID-19 vaccines that used cell lines from aborted fetuses in research and production processes.

Before Gurdock received the companys denial of her accommodation request, she tested positive for COVID-19 and began experiencing symptoms related to the virus. She also filed for medical accommodation with a doctors notice exempting her from receiving the vaccine for six months, but never received a reply.

Instead, the company terminated her May 27 and designated it as a resignation without good cause, resulting in Gurdock not receiving severance pay.

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Two bills that would move up Pennsylvanias presidential primary election on the calendar will go before the House State Government Committee soon, its chairman said Monday.

The democratic process is one of the cornerstones of our nation, and its our duty to ensure that the voices of all Pennsylvanians are heard, said state Rep. Scott Conklin, D-Centre County, the committees chairman, in a statement.

Proponents have long wanted to push the states presidential primary date from its current slot as the fourth Tuesday in April, arguing that its usually too late in the process to be relevant.

Right now, Pennsylvanias presidential primary is scheduled for April 23, 2024, by which time more than two-thirds of states will have held a primary or caucus.

House Bill 1634, introduced by Philadelphia Democratic Reps. Malcolm Kenyatta and Jared Solomon, would set the states presidential primary on the first Tuesday in April, which would be April 2, 2024.

This not only gives Pennsylvanians a greater voice in national politics but also starts the petition process on January 2, after the holiday season, allowing for a more family-friendly and inclusive timeline. Conklin said.

Kenyatta told PennLive that Senate Bill 224, the bill introduced by Sens. David Argall, R-Schuylkill County, and Sharif Street, D-Philadelphia, that the committee will also consider, would set the primary date too early in March and require the petition process to start the day after Christmas.

In the joint statement, Kenyatta said he was pleased to see that his bill has bipartisan support.

Pennsylvania is a critical battleground nationally, and we deserve to be heard earlier in the process, he said. We also need to be respectful of the Passover holiday.

In 2024, the major Jewish holiday lasts from April 22 to April 30.

Gov. Josh Shapiro has stated his desire to change the primary date to make Pennsylvanias more relevant and avoid a conflict with Passover.

Pennsylvania is a pivotal battleground state and moving up the primary election will provide Pennsylvanians the political weight we deserve by giving us a voice earlier in the process, Solomon said. At the same time, Jewish Pennsylvanians shouldnt have to choose between celebrating Passover and going to the polls.

Kenyatta added that April 2 is also the presidential primary date for Wisconsin, another battleground, and neighboring Delaware and New York.

Last month, Secretary of State Al Schmidt, who oversees elections in Pennsylvania, expressed his concerns that counties might not have enough time to prepare for an earlier presidential primary if lawmakers wait too long to approve it.
Authorities were continuing to search for an alligator in Middlesex County on Monday, five days after it was first spotted in a local park, officials said.

A local police officer shot at the alligator Saturday night after officers spotted the reptile in the Ambrose Brook in Middlesex Borough, following a prior sighting that evening in Lake Creighton, according to an update provided Monday afternoon.

The alligator, estimated to be 3 to 4 feet in length, immediately submerged into the brook and it was unconfirmed if the attempt was successful, the Middlesex Borough Police Department said on Facebook.

However, police also alluded to unconfirmed sightings of the alligator on Monday morning in Lake Creighton. A bystander reportedly claimed seeing a duck getting attacked and pulled under by the alligator, just before noon, but a search as of four hours later failed to locate either the reptile or the ducks carcass.

Victor Crowell Park will be closed to the public for at least 72 hours or until the alligator is deemed to no longer be a threat, Middlesex Borough Police Chief Matthew P. Geist said.

Citizens are strongly urged to stay away from Creighton Lake and the Ambrose Brook and should not approach or make attempts to capture the alligator. They should contact the Middlesex Borough Police Department at 732-356-1900 if the reptile is observed in the area, Geist said.

Police did not say how many shots were fired at the alligator Saturday night, but said that the area in which it was located was not accessible to make capture feasible.

Because the threat to public safety that this reptile causes is significant, a Middlesex police officer employed a safe discharge from a firearm in an attempt to neutralize it, while in close proximity, police said.

The alligator was described as capable of inflicting serious or fatal injuries.

Lake Creighton is commonly known as the Duck Pond, police said, and the Ambrose Brook serves a conduit between the lake and the Raritan River.

Alligators are not native to New Jersey and it is not known how the reptile ended up in Middlesex Borough, officials said.

Possession of alligators or crocodiles is against the law in New Jersey, said Larry Hajna, a spokesman for the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection.

Sometimes, however, these animals are purchased out of state and brought into New Jersey illegally. The owners often release them in local water bodies when they find they can no longer care for the animal, Hajna said.

Regardless of how it got to New Jersey, the alligator is on borrowed time.

An alligator is most likely not going to survive the winter here in New Jersey, Dave Schneider, a regional manager for Herpetological Associates, told NJ Advance Media.

As long as it has access to food, it could survive until we get a couple of really cold snaps, said Schneider, whose organization is headquartered in Pemberton and has specialized in the study of endangered and threatened reptiles and amphibians since 1977.

The DEPs Fish & Wildlife devision is seeking information about the reptiles location so that a humane trap can be set, Hajna said.

Anyone with information about the alligators current or recent location may call the state Department of Environmental Protections hotline at 877-WARN-DEP, Hajna said.

Geist, the Middlesex Borough police chief, said the departments officers and officers from the states conservation police have been monitoring the lake and the Ambrose Brook in attempts to locate the reptile and will take all means necessary to resolve this situation.

These are the law enforcement partnerships we count on to help protect our community from this potential threat to the public health, Geist said.

Please subscribe now and support the local journalism you rely on and trust.

Rob Jennings may be reached at rjennings@njadvancemedia.com.

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Ukraine ready to start negotiations on security guarantees with Japan as soon as possible  Zelenskyy-Kishida talk

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy held a telephone conversation with Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida on Tuesday.

We appreciate the G7 declaration on security guarantees for Ukraine adopted during the Japanese Presidency. It is time to conclude relevant bilateral agreements in the framework of this declaration. We are ready to start this negotiation process with Japan as soon as possible, Zelenskyy said on Telegram.

The Head of State also thanked the Japanese authorities for all-round assistance, in particular support of the Ukrainian Peace Formula and invited the Prime Minister to take part in the preparation of the Global Peace Summit.

During the conversation, Zelenskyy told Kishida about the efforts that Ukraine is making to continue the operation of the grain corridor, in particular by creating alternative routes.

Ukraine is ready to continue to act as a guarantor of global food security, the president noted.

In addition, they discussed the preparations for the Ukraine Recovery Conference scheduled to take place in Japan early next year and coordinated our steps on the eve of important international legal events.
A German Shepherd puppy is now in the care of the York County SPCA less than a week after police found it severely beaten.

Officials with the shelter said Facebook post on Monday that the puppy still has a long road ahead to fully recover.

Hes got a lot of swelling, hes got some fractured limbs, we need to put some weight on him, Steven Martinez, executive director of the York County SPCA, told Fox 43.

The dog had been under the care of the Mason Dixon Animal Emergency Hospital after he was found beaten in York last week. The pup, which is estimated to be between six and eight months old, suffered severe head trauma and a fractured leg. Veterinarians at the hospital named the dog Chance, as in getting another chance at life.

York police said the puppy was attacked around 9 p.m. in the backyard of a home at the 400 block of South Pershing Avenue in York. Police said they are investigating the case, as no arrests have been announced.

The York SPCA said it would be providing updates on the dogs progress.

Officials said the dogs progress was thanks to donations to the Second Chance Fund, which covers expenses of saving vulnerable pets.

You can donate to the fund by clicking here.

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By Gillian McGoldrick, The Philadelphia Inquirer (TNS)

HARRISBURG  Pennsylvania could move its primary election date as early as March 19, a move that would make the state a more decisive player in choosing presidential nominees.

Lawmakers still need to reach a final agreement on how early theyll move the 2024 primary election in the critical battleground state. Officials have discussed moving the election to a date as early as March 19 or as late as April 16.

Gov. Josh Shapiro and legislative leaders have all said they support moving the primary election to earlier in the year because the current date conflicts with Passover. The primary is scheduled for April 23, 2024, the first day of the major Jewish holiday. Traditional Jewish law prohibits many regular activities, such as driving, writing, working and the use of electricity on the holiday, which is observed for eight days in the United States.

A Pennsylvania Senate committee will consider a bill Wednesday to move the primary election to March 19, 2024. Other battleground states, including Arizona and Florida, will choose their presidential nominees that day.

Other dates are also a possibility.

Rep. Malcolm Kenyatta, D-Phil, introduced a proposal with Rep. Jared Solomon, D-Phi, to move the primary to April 2. This is the earliest that the state could move the election while still allowing candidates to begin collecting petitions to get on the ballot after the Christmas holiday.

Kenyatta and Solomon initially proposed moving the date to March 19, but heard concerns that the petition period would then overlap with Christmas. They landed on April 2, which Kenyatta said puts the state in position to vote in a mini Super Tuesday. Wisconsin, Delaware, New York and Rhode Island will all vote in presidential primaries that day.

Pennsylvania is a critical battleground state, Kenyatta said. We deserve to be heard earlier, and we need to be respectful of the Jewish holiday.

Once an election date is finalized, each county will need to ensure that the states more than 9,000 polling locations can be reserved for the new date. Philadelphia alone has more than 700 polling places.

In a letter to Senate President Pro Tempore Kim Ward last month, Secretary of State Al Schmidt encouraged lawmakers to address the issue quickly.

While I certainly support making this change, as a longtime election administrator, I strongly urge that any legislation moving the date of the primary be passed by the General Assembly as soon as possible, said Schmidt, a former longtime Republican member of the Philadelphia County commissioners.

I am deeply concerned we will not give county election officials the time they need to adjust thousands of polling locations to accommodate a new, earlier primary date, he wrote.

The Senate returns Wednesday to finish work related to the budget, and will be able to take up the issue swiftly once they are back Sept. 18 from summer recess, a spokesperson for Senate Republicans said in a statement.

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NASHVILLE, Tenn.  Republican lawmakers voted Monday to temporarily silence a Democratic member of the so-called Tennessee Three during an already tense House floor session after determining the young Black member violated newly enacted rules designed to punish disruptive members.

The move directed at Rep. Justin Jones prohibited him from speaking on and debating bills for the remainder of the day, which came a week into a special session that Republican Gov. Bill Lee called in reaction to a deadly shooting at a Christian elementary school in Nashville in March.

The House and Senate are locked in an icy standoff over what to pass as families close to the shooting have increasingly voiced their frustrations with the legislative process. Various mental health, juvenile justice, school safety and other proposals are among whats being considered.

Republican legislative leaders arent taking up any significant gun control changes, including the governors push to keep guns away from people judged to pose a threat to themselves or others.

The vote to silence Jones prompted loud cries and chants that drowned out proceedings for several minutes even after the House speaker ordered the gallery to be cleared out.

Moments prior, Jones had been criticizing legislation that would have allowed more law enforcement officers in schools and began listing other resources that the state should be providing.

House Speaker Cameron Sexton had warned Jones not to stray off topic. Under new rules adopted by the GOP-dominant chamber last week, members can be silenced anywhere from a day to the rest of the year for not sticking to the bill being debated.

What our schools need are mental health professionals, Jones said. We need funding for mental health, for counselors. We need to pay our teachers better. We dont need more police in our schools.

Parents from The Covenant School comfort each other and hold signs above the House floor advocating for gun law reform during a special session of the state legislature on public safety Monday, Aug. 28, 2023, in Nashville, Tenn. (AP Photo/George Walker IV)AP

Sexton then ruled Jones out of order, setting up a vote on whether to quiet him for the rest of Mondays session.

What happened next was a chaotic flurry of legislative proceedings, where Democrats outraged at the decision to move ahead to try to silence Jones for the day began pleading with their GOP colleagues to change their minds. Republican lawmakers remained unconvinced, however, with 70 GOP members voting to silence Jones. Democratic members then angrily left the chamber with Jones.

The crowd, which included gun control advocates urging change in a special session after a deadly Nashville school shooting in March, shouted fascists and racists, and Sexton ordered troopers to clear out the gallery of the public.

Look, House rules are House rules, Sexton told reporters afterward. We voted on it. Might not like the rules, but the rules are what they are.

Many in the crowd remained in the stands, and their cries of vote them out and Whose house, our house drowned out the legislative proceedings for several minutes, enough at one point that a Republican lawmaker said he couldnt hear what he was supposed to be voting on.

Earlier that session, Sexton warned Jones he was nearly impugning the reputation of Republican Rep. Gino Bulso by calling Bulsos bills reprehensible, asinine, and insulting, including one being discussed at the time that would allow private schools with pre-kindergarten classes to have policies allowing guns on campus.

Democrats noted that Bulso himself had been told to stay on topic, including when he said Jones continually misrepresents facts to the public, then later said Jones makes outrageous statements, without being put up for a vote on whether he should be silenced.

Rep. Justin Jones, D-Nashville, speaks from the House floor during a special session of the state legislature on public safety Monday, Aug. 28, 2023, in Nashville, Tenn. (AP Photo/George Walker IV)AP

Not long after, Jones said lawmakers should stop trying to put more guns to start a gun fight in our schools that would not protect our children. What is one little Glock against an AR-15?

Sexton then declared Jones out of order.

Jones was among the two Tennessee lawmakers expelled earlier this year for his role in a pro-gun control protest inside the Tennessee Capitol, propelling him into the national spotlight as the new face of Democratic politics.

The April demonstration came just days after a shooter opened fire at The Covenant School, killing three children and three adults. Jones joined Democratic Reps. Justin Pearson and Gloria Johnson in approaching the front of the House floor without permission with a bullhorn, joining the chants and cries for action by protesters in the public gallery and outside of the chamber.

Pearson and Jones, who are both Black, were expelled, while Johnson, who is white, was spared by one vote. The two have since been reelected to their positions.

The House is out of order under Cameron Sextons leadership, Jones told reporters shortly after leaving the House floor. Its very disheartening, its very troubling. This is a step from authoritarianism, and we should all be troubled by this.

Among the new slate of strict rules that House Republicans signed off on last week was a ban on the public holding signs during floor and committee proceedings. A Tennessee judge has since blocked the sign ban from being enforced after agreeing with civil rights activists that the prohibition likely violated free speech rights.

People hold signs in the House gallery above the chamber floor advocating for gun law reform during a special session of the state legislature on public safety Monday, Aug. 28, 2023, in Nashville, Tenn. (AP Photo/George Walker IV)AP

While the state is fighting to uphold the ban, Chancellor Anne Martin stood by her decision Monday, noting that the state has no interest in enforcing an unconstitutional restriction.

The silencing of Jones is just one of several tense interactions that have exploded during the special session.

Kimberlee Kruesi and Jonathan Mattise of The Associated Press wrote this story.

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Gov. Josh Shapiros administration has reached a deal with a third state employee union for the next four years.

The United Food and Commercial Workers Local 1776 on Monday ratified by a 90% approval vote from its members to accept a pact that grants 22.1% pay increases when compounded over the contracts life.
As you prepare for fall it might be a good idea to also dig out not only your rake but also your snow shovel.

According to the winter weather forecast for 2023-24 released today by the Old Farmers Almanac, we will need the shovels early.

The 2024 Old Farmers Almanac predicts snow, seasonable cold, and all of winters delights! This winters forecast is sure to excite snow bunnies and sweater lovers alike, promising a whole lot of cold and snow across North America!

The almanac, which said it has been issuing 80%-accurate forecasts since 1792, is calling for a winter wonderland with crisp temperatures and oodles of fluffy white in areas of the United States that typically see snow - including the Northeast.

In the Northeast and Midwest, the almanac predicts snow will arrive beginning in November, with storms, showers, and flurries continuing through the start of spring.

Pennsylvania is solidly within the almanacs map for cold and snowy weather.

While it says winter will be warmer than normal from New England the Atlantic corridor down to Florida ... it also says, Snowfall will be above normal across the most snow-prone areas ...

The almanac said an expected El Nino has emerged and should gradually strengthen into the winter. El Nino is a natural climate phenomenon marked by warmer-than-average sea surface temperatures in the Pacific Ocean.

Typically, El Nino conditions result in wetter-than-average conditions from southern California to along the Gulf Coast and drier-than-average conditions in the Pacific Northwest. We also expect a warm Atlantic Multidecadal Oscillation (AMO) and cool Pacific Decadal Oscillation (PDO). Also important are the equatorial stratospheric winds involved in the Quasi-Biennial Oscillation, or QBO.

Under certain combinations of meteorological conditions, the polar vortex can be displaced from the North Pole, which could open the door for cold blasts to hit southern Canada and the central and eastern United States during this upcoming winter.

The Old Farmers Almanac forecast comes just a few weeks after the Farmers Almanac forecast that predicts the Northeast, from Washington to Boston, which had al ight amount of precipitation this past winter, may experience for quite the opposite, with lots of rain/sleet and snowstorms to contend with.
The Northwest Territories legislature is to meet later Monday to discuss delaying a territorial election scheduled for October because of wildfires. Premier of the Northwest Territories Caroline Cochrane participates in an availability after speaking with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, not shown, on Parliament Hill in Ottawa, on Friday, Dec. 9, 2022. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Justin Tang
Soldiers of the 14th separate mechanized brigade named after Prince Roman the Great destroyed the enemy self-propelled howitzer 2S19 Msta-S FPV-drone  in one of the hottest areas, said commander-in-chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Valeriy Zaluzhny.

Soldiers of the 14th separate mechanized brigade named after Prince Roman the Great are working. The crushing defeat of the enemy self-propelled howitzer 2S19 Msta-S FPV drone in one of the hottest areas. Glory to Ukraine and its defenders! wrote Zaluzhny on the Telegram channel, publishing a video of the work of the Ukrainian forces.
Police are set to provide an update today in the case of an Ontario man accused of selling a lethal substance to individuals at risk of self-harm. Kenneth Law appears in court in Brampton, Ont., Wednesday, May 3, 2023 in an artist's sketch. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Alexandra Newbould
Ontario Premier Doug Ford says the province is looking to return land to the Greenbelt that a developer recently sold. Ontarios minister of housing Steve Clark listens as Ford speaks during a press conference in Mississauga, Ont., Friday, Aug. 11, 2023. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Cole Burston
Over the past day, artillery units of the Ukrainian Defense Forces have completed 1,200 fire missions in Tavria direction, the losses of the Russian occupiers amounted to 327 people, said Oleksandr Tarnavsky, commander of the operational-strategic grouping of troops Tavria.

"We are making progress in Tavria direction. We are driving back the enemy," he wrote on the Telegram channel on Tuesday.

According to Tarnavsky, artillery units of the Defense Forces completed 1,200 firing tasks during the day. Over the past day, the enemy's losses amounted to 327 people (irretrievable - 91, wounded - 235, POWs - one).

In addition, as commander of the Tavria operative-strategic grouping of troops clarified, 34 units of enemy military equipment were destroyed during the day. In particular, four tanks, eight armored combat vehicles, three artillery systems and mortars, one MLRS unit, 16 units of automotive and two units of special equipment.

Two ammunition depots and three enemy control points were also destroyed.
At the invitation of Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Minister of Foreign Affairs Wang Yi, James Cleverly, Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs of the UK, will pay an official visit to China on August 30.

CCTV: The Chinese Ambassador to Switzerland Wang Shiting last week attended the ceremony for the return of Chinas lost cultural relics held by the Swiss Federal Office of Culture, signed a return agreement with Switzerland and received five lost cultural relics. Can you give us more details and whats your comment on this?

Wang Wenbin: We appreciate Switzerlands returning the Chinese cultural relics. Our two countries signed the Agreement Between the Federal Council of the Swiss Confederation and the Government of the Peoples Republic of China on Illicit Import and Export and Repatriation of Cultural Property in 2013 and have since carried out a series of practical exchanges and cooperation under this framework. In December 2014, Switzerland returned the first item, a piece of pottery figure of the Han Dynasty, to China. Last week, Switzerland returned to China another five cultural relics confiscated in four criminal proceedings in the past two years, including four pieces of chinaware and one coin. This marks another successful practice in cultural heritage protection cooperation between the two countries, contributes to deepening mutual understanding and friendship between the two peoples, and sets a fine example of combating cultural relics smuggling, ensuring the safety of cultural relics and expanding inter-governmental cooperation globally. China stands ready to deepen cooperation with Switzerland in such areas as the recovery and return of cultural relics, ancient civilizations studies, joint archaeological research, and the restoration of historical sites, in an effort to jointly bolster cultural exchange and mutual learning and create more highlights for the growth of China-Switzerland relations.

AFP: The Japanese foreign minister said earlier today that its extremely regrettable and worrying that a brick was thrown at the Japanese embassy in Beijing. He urged the Chinese government to call on its people to remain calm on the issue regarding the ocean discharge of the treated water from Fukushima. Will China call on its people to remain calm on this matter?

Wang Wenbin: Weve responded to and made clear our solemn position on Japans so-called concerns and made serious demarches over the harassment to the Chinese diplomatic and consular missions in Japan. China protects and ensures the safety and lawful rights and interests of foreign nationals in China in accordance with laws. In disregard of the international communitys strong criticism and opposition, the Japanese government unilaterally started releasing the Fukushima nuclear-contaminated water into the ocean, which has sparked indignation over the world. This is the root cause of the current situation. If Japans release of nuclear-contaminated water into the sea is based on science, why is the publics opposition still mounting in Japan?

In response to Japans extremely selfish and irresponsible wrong act, China and other stakeholders have the right and responsibility to take legitimate, reasonable and necessary preventive measures to safeguard the marine environment, food safety and peoples health. What Japan should do is immediately correct its wrongdoing and stop discharging the nuclear-contaminated water into the sea, not otherwise.

China Daily: Following on your announcement about the visit to China by Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs of the UK James Cleverly, can you share with us Chinas view on the current China-UK relations and expectation for the visit?

Wang Wenbin: As permanent members of the UN Security Council and major economies in the world, China and the UK shoulder the common responsibility of promoting world peace, stability and development. Maintaining and growing bilateral relations serves the common interests of the peoples of both countries.

During Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs James Cleverlys visit to China, the two sides will have in-depth communication on bilateral relations and international and regional issues of mutual interest. We hope the UK will work with China to deepen exchanges and enhance understanding in the spirit of mutual respect, so as to promote the steady development of China-UK relations.

Kyodo News: Also on the release of the Fukushima treated water. How do you comment on the rising negative sentiment in China towards Japan, with some even calling for a boycott of Japanese products?

Wang Wenbin: As I just said, China protects the safety and lawful rights and interests of foreign nationals in China in accordance with the law. Japan needs to immediately correct its selfish and irresponsible act of dumping nuclear-contaminated water into the sea and earnestly respond to the international communitys concerns.

Global Times: According to reports, in July this year, US Customs and Border Protection personnel forcibly boarded Zhenhua 28, a Hong Kong-registered Chinese cargo ship under Shanghai Zhenhua Heavy Industries Company, for inspection in Jacksonville, Florida. Does the foreign ministry have any comment? Has China expressed its concern to the US?

Wang Wenbin: The vessel Zhenhua 28 encountered unreasonable searches and harassment by US law enforcement in Jacksonville, Florida. Some of the crew members personal electronic devices were confiscated and seized. The ships departure plan from the US had to be postponed, disrupting its subsequent operations and the crews work and life. China has made serious demarches to the US side.

It must be pointed out that in recent years, the US has placed barriers to the entry of Chinese citizens under various pretexts, including unreasonable interference in the entry of Chinese students holding valid visas. In particular, it has often interrogated and harassed Chinese nationals on the grounds of their political beliefs or Communist party membership. This is a stark manifestation of ideological bias and Cold War mentality. We deplore and reject it. We call on the US to correct its wrong practice and stop the unjustified interrogation and harassment targeting Chinese citizens traveling to the US, stop infringing on their lawful rights and interests, stop using national security as a pretext to thwart and undermine people-to-people and cultural exchange and economic and trade cooperation between our two countries, and make sure the above-mentioned incidents wont be repeated. China will do what is necessary to firmly safeguard the lawful rights and interests of Chinese nationals.

Hubei Media Group: The Chinese embassy and consulates in Japan have reportedly received a barrage of harassing calls from Japanese numbers recently. Do you have any information on that?

Wang Wenbin: China has made serious demarches to Japan over the harassment to the Chinese embassy and consulates in Japan and urged the Japanese side to handle the matter in accordance with the law to effectively ensure the safety of the Chinese embassy and consulates and Chinese institutions, companies and nationals, including tourists, in Japan.

AFP: In my previous question I mentioned someone throwing a brick at the Japanese embassy in China. I wonder if you are for or against such moves?

Wang Wenbin: I just covered this and made clear Chinas position.

CRI: According to reports, the Japanese side has said recently that the US, for example, has expressed its satisfaction with Japans discharge of the nuclear-contaminated water into the sea. In this context, we would like to convey to the Chinese government these voices of the international community. Whats your response?

Wang Wenbin: Of the close to 200 countries in the world, I wonder if Japan can name any other country beside the US that has voiced support for its plan to dump the nuclear-contaminated water into the sea.

That list, Im afraid, is very short. The overwhelming majority of countries have criticized and made clear their opposition to the ocean discharge process, a position shared by many in Japan itself, and taken preventative measures. This is the plain fact. Japan shouldnt ignore this or worse, resort to self-deception and try to fool others.

Particularly, I would like to point out that the ocean discharge concerns the marine environment and public health. It is by no means the private matter of Japan itself. Nor can it simply be greenlighted by any individual country out of political calculations. What Japan did further reveals its nature of valuing only might in disregard of the wider international community, and putting its selfish interests above international public interests.
Russian occupation forces fired an artillery attack on the town of Semenivka, Novhorod-Siversky district, Chernihiv region on Tuesday in the afternoon.

"The surgery building of the local hospital was damaged. The information is yet to be updated," Head of Chernihiv Regional Military Administration Viacheslav Chaus said on the Telegram channel.

The town had been shelled by the occupation forces numerous times before, the official said.

No casualties were reported.
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High Stakes Poker: Nick Schulman Claims JRB Makes Worst Fold in the History of the Show

August 28, 2023 Chad Holloway Executive Editor U.S.

On Monday night, Season 11 of High Stakes Poker continued on PokerGO with Episode No. 4 of the new season.

It was a continuation of last weeks lineup that included Jean-Robert Bellande, Charles Yu, Andrew Robl, Rob Yong, Rick Salomon, and Ferdinand Putra.

Here are the stacks at the top of the episode:

Player Chip Stack Rob Yong $1,391,000 Rick Salomon $960,000 Ferdinand Putra $567,000 Andrew Robl $550,000 Jean-Robert Bellande $500,000 Charles Yu $500,000

Watch Eric Persson Put on a Punting Clinic

River Bomb Pot Disaster

Rick Salomon

The first hand of the episode was a bomb pot where all six players put in $5,000 blind and went straight to the flop, which came down 45K. Yu, who was in the cutoff, had the best of it with the KQ for top pair and he bet $25,000.

Only Salomon called with his 33 and action went check-check on the 5 turn before the 3 hit the river. Salomon bet $100,000 and Yu snap-called only to exclaim, What?!? after his opponent rolled over his rivered full house to claim a $280,000 pot!

Big Slick for Rick

After a bunch of players added to their stacks, Yong raised the button to $5,000 with the AJ and then called when Salomon three-bet to $25,000 out of the small blind with the AK. Salomon continued for $25,000 on the 3J10 flop and Yong called with top pair.

Salomon kept the pressure on with a bet of $55,000 on the 3 turn and Yong once again just called. The A river was a bad card for Salomon as he made aces up with a king kicker, and he promptly bet $100,000. Yong, who had a bigger two pair, snap-called and claimed a pot worth $414,000.

Heres a look at the stacks after that hand:

Player Chip Stack Rob Yong $1,702,000 Rick Salomon $1,271,000 Ferdinand Putra $593,000 Jean-Robert Bellande $530,000 Andrew Robl $522,000 Charles Yu $350,000

A $700,000 Bet on the River

Andrew robl

About midway through the episode, Robl raised to $6,000 under the gun with the A7 and Big Slick Rick Salomon three-bet to $26,000 from the button with ace-king. Both blinds folded, Robl called, and the 4JK flop had action written all over it.

Robl checked, Salomon bet $20,000, and Robl woke up with a check-raise to $80,000. Salomon wasted little time in making the call and the 5 appeared on the turn. Robl fired out a bet of $130,000 but Salomon snap-called to see the Q river.

Robl made his nut flush and paused for a few beats before betting $700,000. Salomon, who was sitting with $1.21 million, simply sent his cards to the muck and said, You got me.

What Did JRB Just Fold?

With a $4,000 straddle on, Salomon raised to $15,000 with the 42 only to have JRB, who hadnt got much going all session, three-bet to $50,000 from the small blind with the QQ, leaving himself $315,000 behind.

The big blind and straddle both folded before Salomon, who had been on a big heater all episode, four-bet all in. It seemed like an easy spot for JRB to get in his stack, at least according to commentator Nick Schulman, but surprisingly it didnt go that way.

Big bully, JRB said before sliding his cards to the muck. I had a big hand.

Salomon then showed his four-deuce, much to the delight of the other players.

Easily the worst fold in the history of the show, Schulman quipped.

JRB Finds Redemption

Rob Yong

Not long after, the straddle was on by Putra and Yong raised to $10,000 first to act with the 1010. Salomon called with the 98, JRB came along from the small blind with the 22, and Putra put in an additional $6,000 to make it four-way action to the 236 flop.

JRB flopped bottom set and led out for $20,000, which only Yong called. After the dealer burned and turned the 7, JRB bet $65,000 and Yong moved all in. JRB called off the $134,000 he had behind and a $482,000 pot was on the line.

Yong only ever runs it once, so thats what they did here. The 3 river was safe for Bellande and he doubled through Yong.

Back-to-Back Sets for JRB

In the next hand, which was the last of the episode, JRB straddled to $4,000 and Yong popped it to $10,000 on the button with the A7. Salomon called with the K10 from the small blind and then Bellande just called with his 88.

The AJ8 flop gave Bellande back-to-back flopped sets and he bet $15,000 after Salomon checked. Yong responded by raising to $45,000 with top pair, Salomon folded, and JRB just called.

The 5 turn saw Bellande lead out for $35,000 and Yong once again raised making it $125,000 to go. JRB didnt take long to move all in for $406,000 and that was enough to get Yong to fold. With that, JRB claimed the $655,000 pot and ended the episode on a high note.

Jean-Robert Bellande

Here are the stacks at the end of the episode:

Player Chip Stack Andrew Robl 2,330,000 Rob Yong 1,497,000 Rick Salomon $1,183,000 Jean-Robert Bellande $655,000 Charles Yu $390,000 Ferdinand Putra $363,000

Episode 5 of High Stakes Poker Season 11 will air next Monday (September 4) at 5 p.m. PT on PokerGO.

Past High Stakes Poker Season 11 Episodes

Check out our past recaps from Season 10 of High Stakes Poker on PokerGO:

To watch new episodes of High Stakes Poker on PokerGO, you'll need to subscribe. Click here to learn how you can sign up today.

*Images courtesy of PokerGO/Antonio Abrego

Sharelines Check out highlights from Episode 4 of High Stakes Poker Season 11 on @PokerGO.
"PimPitup14" Triumphs in Thrilling Showdown in the 888poker $100K Mystery Bounty

August 29, 2023 Matthew Pitt Senior Editor

Luxembourg's "PimPitup14" is $7,834 richer than they were a couple of days ago thanks to taking down the latest edition of the 888poker $100,000 Mystery Bounty Main Event. A field of 928 entrants, made up of 772 unique players and 156 re-entries, fought tooth and nail for a slice of the $100,000 prize pool.

Day 1 ended with only nine players in the mix for the title of champion and the largest main prize pool prize. The three chunkiest mystery bounties, two worth $3,000 and one weighing in at $10,000, were all won before the curtain came down on Day 1 proceedings.

Fiftieth-place finisher "CurrD" claimed a $3,000 scalp before they bowed out, with the other two big bounties won by players who reached the final table. "1IIIIIIIIIIII1" clinched a $3,000 bounty, while "LuiMartins" reeled in the $10,000 jackpot, which ultimately meant they won the most prize money despite their tournament ending in a sixth-place finish.

$100,000 Mystery Bounty Main Event Final Table Chip Counts

Rank Player Country Chips Big Blinds 1 1IIIIIIIIIIII1 Thailand 3,889,256 97 2 ForSalary Mexico 2,201,505 55 3 PimPitup14 Luxembourg 2,024,626 51 4 LuiMartins Brazil 1,951,452 49 5 kaua. Brazil 1,328,915 33 6 championamin Canada 939,706 24 7 Suic1deKin9 Thailand 785,913 20 8 Inflaatio Finland 668,740 17 9 eyetoeye14 United Kingdom 129,887 3

The final table exploded into life during the very first hand. British grinder "eyetoeye14" sat down with a mere three big blinds, and they went into the middle of the table from early position with ace-eight. "LuiMartins" called the all-in from the next seat along with ace-jack, only for "Inflaatio" to squeeze to 13.5 big blinds with pocket tens in middle position.

The action did not stop there because "championamin" ripped in 22.2 bigs from the small blind with ace-six of clubs! "LuiMartins" ducked out of the way, but "Inflaatio" called off the three big blind they left behind. The pocket tens held, busting "eyetoeye14" and more than doubling the stack of "Inflaatio."

Brazil's "kaua." busted in eighth place in cruel circumstances. "ForSalary" min-raised with king-jack in middle position, "PimPitup14" called on the button with king-queen of diamonds, only for "kaua." To jam for 24.3 big blinds in the big blind with ace-king. "ForSalary" folded, but "PimPitup14" called. The community cards displayed three diamonds by the turn, gifting "PimPitup14" a hand-winning flush.

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The final table became officially short-handed with the elimination of "ForSalary" in seventh on the 45-minute mark. Having lost most of their stack with ace-queen against the ace-king of "championamin," "ForSalary" open-shoved for 13.5 big blinds with pocket fives in late position, but did not count on "PimPitup14" waking up in the small blind with pocket aces. The five community cards provided no drama, and "ForSalary" was done and dusted.

"LuiMartins" lost his short stack to "Inflaatio" and finished in sixth place. They moved all-in for 5.5 big blinds with ace-four, and "Inflaatio" called with queen-jack. "LuiMartins" turned two pair, but the river put four clubs on the board, and "Inflaatio" held the jack of clubs. Good game.

The final five became four when "1IIIIIIIIIIII1" found themselves on the sidelines, despite sitting down at the final table with by far the largest stack. Their final hand was a battle of the blinds. "Inflaatio" moved all-in from the small blind for 10.8 big blinds effective, and "1IIIIIIIIIIII1" instantly called with pocket kings. "Inflaatio" turned over ace-eight, which flopped an ace, and the barcode player bowed out.

An ill-timed move by "Suic1deKin9" saw them heading for the exits. "Inflaatio" min-raised with ace-jack and quickly called the 17 big blind all-in three-bet "Suic1deKin9" made with the dominated ace-seven in the big blind. Both players paired their kicker, which was not enough to prevent "Suic1deKin9" from crashing out.

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Heads-up was reached when the aggressive "Inflaatio" went from chip leader to third-place finisher. Their final participation was to raise 10.3 big blind with ace-nine, leaving themselves a solitary big blind behind. "PimPitup14" called in the small blind with ace-king, and the last chips went into the middle on a king-high flop. "Inflaatio" had a backdoor flush draw, on the flop, and a gutshot straight on the turn, but they missed all of those outs.

"PimPitup14" went into heads-up against "championamin" holding a three-to-one chip lead. The one-on-one battle was short-lived, ending in a bizarre hand where "PimPitup14" min-raised with queen-nine, and "championamin" called with queen-eight. A nine-deuce-nine flop saw "championamin" jam 41.5 big blinds into the middle, and they were snapped off. "championamin" picked up a spade flush on the turn, but the river bricked, handing the title to "PimPitup14."

$100,000 Mystery Bounty Main Event Final Table Results

Rank Player Country Bounties Prize Total Prize 1 PimPitup14 Luxembourg $529 $7,305 $7,834 2 championamin Canada $2,047 $5,340 $7,387 3 Inflaatio Finland $2,734 $3,925 $6,659 4 Suic1deKin9 Thailand $187 $2,885 $3,072 5 1IIIIIIIIIIII1 Thailand $3,377 $2,135 $5,512 6 LuiMartins Brazil $10,234 $1,590 $11,824 7 ForSalary Mexico $809 $1,195 $2,004 8 kaua. Brazil $1,124 $905 $2,029 9 eyetoeye14 United Kingdom $1,124 $690 $1,814

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Sharelines "championamin" played aggressive, too aggressively, and handed the victory to "PimPitup14."
The last of two starting flights have concluded for the 5,300 Main Event here at the PokerStars European Poker Tour (EPT) in Casino Barcelona with Sylwester Fortuna emerging as the chip leader of the 438 remaining players after bagging 328,000 in Day 1b.

Fortuna is a regular in European tournaments and is coming off a career-best cash of 40,000 after winning a Pokercode Festival event earlier this year. His best EPT cash dates back to 2014, when he got second place in a London event. However, Fortuna is now in prime position to make a deep run and will be looking to improve upon his live-tournament resume.

Day 1b Top 10 Chip Counts

RANK PLAYER COUNTRY CHIP COUNT BIG BLINDS 1 Sylwester Fortuna Poland 328,000 218 2 Wongyu Kang South Korea 319,500 213 3 Younes Hammouchi France 287,000 191 4 Johnny Mendes Brazil 280,000 187 5 Claudio Di Giacomo Italy 266,500 177 6 Martin Zamani United States 243,500 162 7 Brandon Mifsud Malta 239,000 159 8 Franck Makaci France 231,500 154 9 Antoine Labat France 223,500 149 10 Alexandru Alman Italy 220,000 146

Day 1b drew 1,261 entrants, which brings the overall number of entrants (when combined with Day 1a) to 2,053. The standing record from last year is 2,294 entrants, but with late registration remaining open until the start of Day 2, we will have to wait and see if a new field record can be set.

There was no shortage of notables in the mix today, with Jason Wheeler (150,500) Niklas Astedt (143,000), Matthew Wantman (104,500), and Sam Grafton (69,000) all finding bags into Day 2. Joey Weissman also had a good day and was able to eliminate Marcel Brunner en route to bagging 140,000 before the end of the day.

Joey Weissman

PokerStars Team Pro Benjamin Spragg was also able to earn a Day-2 berth after chipping up nicely in a few of hands of the last level to end with 124,500. His better half, Marle Spragg, was also in attendance but was eliminated late in the day.

Other less fortunate players include Erik Seidel, Kevin Rabichow, Nacho Barbero, Kitty Kuo, Masato Yokosawa, Steve O'Dwyer, and Patrik Antonius  all of whom busted before the day's end.

Defending champion Giuliano Bendinelli was also unable to pick up any momentum throughout the day and busted out shortly before the dinner break.

All the remaining players from Day 1a and Day 1b will reconvene for Day 2 on August 29 at 12 p.m. local time. Any player who has not entered more than once between Day 1a and Day 1b will be eligible to register up until the start of Day 2.

Play will resume on Level 11, which features 1,000/1,500 blinds and a 1,500 big blind ante. Levels from Day 2 onward will be lengthened to 90 minutes each.

Be sure to stick with PokerNews as we continue to bring you all the action from the tournament floor leading to the next EPT Main Event champion! For coverage of other events, check out the EPT Barcelona live reporting hub.
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Some of Trumps most dedicated supporters praise his faith, but President Joe Biden has made 100 visits to church, while Donald Trump made ten at the same point in his presidency.

Mark Knoller, a former CBS News correspondent and the unofficial keeper of presidential stats, tweeted:

Of recent presidents, Biden the most frequent churchgoer. Attending Mass today in DC, marked his 100th church visit. Compares at same point in office to:

-Trump: 11 church visits

-Obama: 9

-GWBush: 35  Mark Knoller (@markknoller) August 27, 2023

Who can forget all of those many times when Trump has waxed on so eloquently about his faith?

For example, when Trump was asked by a fan about his faith at a Sean Hannity-hosted Iowa town hall and responded:

Such a great question. Ive seen so much heartache and turmoil. I was a developer and other things. I had a wonderful life before all of this. I didnt know what a grand jury was. I didnt know what a subpoena was. I had a wonderful life.

. Im so happy I did it because I made America great and we can do it again right now we are not a great country. But I have gotten to know because of evangelicals, I meet so many people and they feel so good about themselves and their family. I had never had that kind of an experience I mean I know so many people who are so incredible religious people, not just Christians, when I look at the Catholic faith, you take a look at the FBI, look it with the FBI is doing to Catholics made them like the enemy.

Its horrible. How could a Catholic ever vote for a Democrat or a guy like Biden after the experience? I have met some of the finest people that I wouldnt have had the privilege of meeting their religious leaders. They really are incredible people.

The questioner was not impressed.

Trump supporters often tout his Christian values as the reason why they support him.

Trump is a faith-based fraud who exposes every single person who claims to support him because of his faith.

If religious Americans are looking for a faith-based presidential candidate, there is one currently occupying the White House. Biden goes to church every weekend. He frequently talks openly about his faith and how it has aided and comforted him.

President Biden is the faith-filled candidate that Republicans pretend Donald Trump is, and the numbers prove it.
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Former Trump Chief of Staff Mark Meadows claimed that he was acting in his official capacity when Trump tried to overturn the 2020 Georgia election, but Meadows was working with non-White House lawyers.

CNN reported:

Willis prosecutors have repeatedly highlighted that Meadows included outside, pro-Trump lawyers on that call  people who were not federal employees and didnt work at the Department of Justice, for instance.



Meadows said he didnt recall a specific conversation with Cleta Mitchell, a private attorney assisting Trump, to get her on the call with Raffensperger. He said he also couldnt recall looping in members of Trumps campaign to the call.

Meadows grew somewhat exasperated as the prosecutor questioned why his role would include setting up a call to settle private litigation. Meadows pointed to Trumps needs as he perceived them.

I dealt with the presidents personal position on a number of things. Its still a part of my job to make sure the president is safe and secure and able to perform his job, Meadows said. Serving the president of the United States is what I do, to be clear.

Mark Meadows has claimed that he was acting in his official capacity when helped Trump try to overturn the 2020 presidential election results in Georgia. but if Meadows was acting as White House Chief of Staff, why was he working with outside lawyers and members of Trumps campaign?

Meadows wasnt working with the White House Counsel because he and Trump were engaged in a criminal conspiracy that they were trying to keep away from the official White House lawyers, because the duty of the White House Counsel is to protect the presidency itself, not any individual president.

Mark Meadows wants to get his Georgia trial moved to federal court because in federal court there are no cameras allowed and he has a better chance at getting a conservative judge who was a Trump pick.

Meadows is probably going to lose his motion and be tried in Fulton County just like the other 18 RICO defendants.
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Peter Doocy tried mainstreaming Hunter Biden conspiracy theories at the White House press briefing, but it didnt go great.

Here is a snippet of the exchange:

Doocy: The Secret Service is paying sixteen thousand dollars a month now to stage near Hunter Biden in Malibu whos paying for that?

Pierre: Thats a question for the Secret Service.

Doocy: Okay. Hunter Biden is reportedly selling art to pay for his fifteen thousand eight hundred dollar a month rent in Malibu how can you guarantee that people are not going to be buying this art to gain favor with the president?

Pierre: That is a question for Hunter Biden and his representatives.

Video:

Peter Doocy Was Playing A Game

Peter Doocy knows the White House wont comment on any active DOJ investigations. Hunter Biden is currently under investigation by a special counsel. Doocy wanted Pierre not to answer because he went on Fox News right after the briefing and did segments based on Karine Jean Pierre redirecting his questions.

Fox News uses the video clip to sell Hunter Biden conspiracies to its audience, and the rest of the country has no idea what Doocy was talking about.

The Hunter Biden Conspiracy Is Not Working

Conservative media has not gotten the Hunter Biden conspiracy elevated into the national dialogue. Doocys questions were an effort to mainstream the right-wing catnip. Press Secretary Pierre did a good job. If she had answered Doocys questions, she would have given them legitimacy, and her answers would have been picked up across the media. By shutting Doocy down, the conspiracy stays on Fox News and in conservative media.

The Hunter Biden conspiracy is not working. Trumps many indictments are sucking up all media coverage and oxygen. The Hunter Biden conspiracies were debunked in 2o20, and they are not doing what Republicans had hoped for.

Instead of a scandal that will bring down Joe Biden, the Hunter Biden conspiracies play more like the desperate embers of a dying party.
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Rachel Maddow laid out the stakes for Trump in the 2024 election. If he loses, he will go to prison. If Trump wins, he might be president for life and end democracy.

Maddow said:

These are the stakes, and again whatever you think about that as a legal strategy for Trump, that is how he is thinking about the election. That is how he is going to be talking to his supporters and aides and campaign about the election. The election means one of two things if this is the way he is going to approach it. Either he loses the election and goes to prison, or he wins the election. He doesnt go to prison. And is that for life he gets to be president? Will we keep having new elections? If every election is an opportunity for him to go to prison, do you think he allows us to have elections?

If winning the election is his plan to stay out of prison, what happens if and when he does not win it? Does that kind of election end with a graceful concession to a fair and square re-elected President Biden? I mean, if Trump and his supporters see the stakes as losing and going to prison or winning and being president and probably president for life, how should we expect that he and the Republican Party and Republican officials in swing states are going to handle the conduct of that election that Trump may very well lose? And because we are prone to forget, we have to say out loud that we would be remiss.

We would be willfully naive to ask that question as if our politics exists in a vacuum. Somewhere outside the rest of our news. As if the politics pages are totally different than the crime pages, right? As if we are not in a moment where far-right politics is coinciding with far-right violence, with regular shows of force from paramilitary extreme-right groups, and with acts of violence by people who are explicitly and admittedly motivated by far-right eliminationist political ideas. We are prone to forget, but we do not have to forget.

Video:

Anyone who thinks that President Biden will beat Trump in 2024 and things will be just fine has forgotten the timeline of 2020. The trouble did not start in 202o on a wide scale until after Trumps loss. Looking back, it is now plain to see the progression. During the campaign, Trump radicalized his supporters with false claims of a rigged election months before the first ballots were cast. His supporters responded with voter intimidation.

After Trump lost, he went all in on the false stolen election claims, lost 63 lawsuits, tried to pressure swing state officials to overturn the results, and culminated by leading an insurrection against the United States.

With the stakes potentially being prison for Trump, expect even more frantic desperation and illegal plotting.

Rachel Maddow is right. The current violence is not divorced from far-right politics, and we can never allow the recent history of 2020 to be forgotten.
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The former party of law and order is launching a push to defund prosecutors Fani Willis in Georgia and Special Counsel Jack Smith.

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reported:

U.S. Rep. Andrew Clyde opened a new front in the pro-Donald Trump offensive meant to undercut Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis indictment of the former president and his allies.

The Athens Republican wants to use an upcoming appropriations bill to slash federal funding for Willis, Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg and federal special counsel Jack Smith. All three prosecutors have brought criminal charges against Trump.

Even if House Republicans can get an appropriations bill that defunds Willis and Smith out of the House of Representatives, it will be stripped out of any Senate legislation.

House Republicans are using the same flawed thinking they are always guilty of when creating a crisis. Republicans think that Democrats will be in such a rush to avoid a government shutdown that they will pass anything to get it done.

For more than a decade, Democrats have shown that they have no problem with waiting out Republicans.

Yet, here the nation goes again.

House Republicans are willing to harm the American people with a government shutdown to save Donald Trump.
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Republican presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy, who has a penchant for knee-jerk blaming of the media when he is accurately quoted, defended his comments about defunding Israel by telling Sean Hannity that he understands more deeply than probably anybody in this race the foreign policy implications of the aid we give Israel because Ive traveled to Israel. I have business partners in Israel.

As a reminder, other people in this race include President Joe Biden, who was also Vice President for eight years and was in the Senate for decades, where he was a longtime member and eventually Chairman of the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations, former Vice President Mike Pence who while serving in the House of Representatives sat on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, and former Governor and then United States Ambassador to the United Nations for two years, Nikki Haley.

Watch the full clip here:

Hannity: You said aid to Israel, our number one ally, only democracy in the region, should end in 2028 and that they should be integrated with their neighbors.

Ramaswamy: Thats false.

Hannity: That was the exact quote. You want me to read it?

Yikes. Being called out by Sean Hannity is a low worth appreciating. It goes on:

Ramaswamy: I can tell you the exact quote. What I said is it would be a mark of success if we ever got to a point in our relationship with Israel if Israel never needed the United States aid, and Sean, you know how politics is played. A lot of the other professional politicians who have been threatened by my rise have used that statement to say that I would cut off aid to Israel. Thats not correct. Ive been crystal clear.

Hannity: Do you understand the importance of the Strategic Alliance the intelligence sharing in an area of the world where we have a lot of enemies you do understand how important that Alliance is the intelligence, do you understand how important it is with Iran especially seeking nukes?

Ramaswamy: I understand it I think more deeply than probably anybody in this race. Ive traveled to Israel. I have business partners in Israel. The reality is this, by the end of my first term our relationship with Israel will will be stronger than it ever has been because I will treat it as a true friendship, not just a transactional relationship.

Hannity: Then why did you say that they shouldnt have preferential treatment? Why did you say that Israel should not have preferential treatment from us? Thats a direct quote.

Ramaswamy: No, those are direct quotes from headlines summarized by opposition research fed to the fake news media.

So you can see Ramaswamy shares Trumps trait of accusing anyone who quotes him as being fake news. In this case, Ramaswamy has a slight point in that the accusation does leave out the nuance of what he said, but it is not, as he wrongly claimed, false. He did suggest that Israel should no longer get preferential treatment and that aid would be cut under his presidency (he has a habit of talking about himself/his policies as if he has already been elected, but he hasnt even won the Republican primary yet).

Here is what he said in an interview with actor Russell Brand in early August:

I want to get Israel to the place where it is negotiated back into the infrastructure of the rest of the Middle East. We should not be worried about holding one nation or one region hostage over one particular question relating to Palestine.

And while speaking to the Washington Free Beacon, Ramaswamy said he would cut aid to Israel by 2028: This week, he told the Washington Free Beacon that he supports ending the military funding once the current package passed by Congress expires in 2028, arguing that the aid will be unnecessary after he successfully negotiates new peace treaties between Israel and its Arab neighbors during the first year of his presidency.

If were successful, the true mark of success for the U.S., and for Israel, will be to get to a 2028 where Israel is so strongly standing on its own two feet, integrated into the economic and security infrastructure of the rest of the Middle East, that it will not require and be dependent on that same level of historical aid or commitment from the U.S.'

Given that the Republicans overall foreign policy demeanor is one that is immature, over-eager, self-inflated and changes by the minute because he is learning about the complexities after he speaks while responding to criticism, its not a surprise that any nuance is lost.

So yes, he did actually suggest what he is accused of saying, but it was prefaced on the magical belief that he would somehow solve the Middle East by 2028 and therefore Israel wouldnt need the aid.

This is a theme for him now, after he accused the Atlantic of lying about what he said about 9/11, only to have the Atlantic publish the audio of him saying exactly what he accused of saying, which by the way was a grotesque attempt to pivot from Trumps January 6th terrorist attack. I think it is legitimate to say how many police, how many federal agents, were on the planes that hit the Twin Towers, Ramaswamy told the Atlantic.

Many of us have traveled to a country and done business with other countries; it doesnt magically impart special knowledge about the region, the delicate diplomatic issues, the national security implications of foreign aid, and more.

We saw this same belief in former Republican vice presidential nominee Sarah Palin, who infamously claimed the close proximity of Russia to Alaska gave her foreign policy experience because we have trade missions back and forth.

What does he base his belief in his magical powers upon? The reality is this, by the end of my first term our relationship with Israel will will be stronger than it ever has been because I will treat it as a true friendship, not just a transactional relationship.

That is an empty promise. It says Believe me because I do. Foreign policy is transactional by nature. That is how diplomats get other countries to go along with what benefits their country; they find a way to address the needs and wants of other countries.

This is a man who thinks that the Vice President can introduce and push through legislation in the Senate, and criticized Pence over his handling of Trumps attempted self-coup insurrection on 1/6 over his own misunderstanding of basic things.

Yet, Ramaswamy is rising in the polls.
Commissioner for the Protection of the state language Taras Kremin drew up protocols on an administrative offense in the use of the state language by Bolhrad mayor and a deputy of Bolhrad Town Council of Odesa region.

"According to the results of the implementation of state control measures on the use of the state language by Bolhrad Town Council of Odesa region, a violation of the requirements of the legislation on the state language was established by Bolhrad mayor and a deputy of Bolhrad Town Council," the press service of the language Ombudsman said on the official website on Tuesday.

In particular, it is about the violation by these persons of a number of articles of the law "On ensuring the functioning of the Ukrainian language as the state language" in the exercise of their powers during the session of the Town Council, which took place at the end of June.

It is noted that in his explanations regarding the use of a non-state language in the performance of his powers, Bolhrad mayor noted that during the plenary session there was a discussion during which he switched to a non-state language.

"The deputy explained her use of a non-state language by the fact that her colleagues do not understand the state language," the message says.

Thus, according to the results of the implementation of control measures, an appropriate act and protocols on an administrative offense have been drawn up.
A federal inmate who sued a federal prison in Edgefield County for a delay in medical care due to an injury from a fight was awarded $90,000.

In a federal civil lawsuit filed against the United States of America on Aug. 20, 2020, 64-year-old Larry D. Frye was awarded $90,000 to be recovered from the United States of America, according to a judgment from the court.

According to the lawsuit, while housed as an inmate in the Bureau of Prisons at the Federal Correctional Institution in Edgefield County, Frye was injured in a fight with a fellow inmate on Aug. 7, 2018.

During the altercation, Fry was hit with a cane, which broke and a sharp piece of the cane hit him in the face, the lawsuit states.

According to the lawsuit, Fry had a gash on his jaw that was bleeding, an abrasion on his head and an abrasion on his eye for which he was taken to the clinic.

Over the course of several months from August 2018 to October 2018, Frye repeatedly asked for medical care, complained about pain in his jaw and addressed concerns about an object in his jaw.

Frye alleges that the medical and nursing staff at the correctional facility delayed treatment and a surgery after he complained about jaw pain from a foreign object that was determined to be a wooden object.

The court said delaying the order for the CT scan and confirming a foreign object was a breach in the standard of care to Frye.

Connor said defendant argued that Fryes negligence contributed to his injuries, but the court disagreed.

"He continued to plea for assistance and it was ignored," Connor said. "You just can't just treat people like that."

The lawsuit said each time Frye asked for help and was evaluated, medical and nursing staff continued to deny him treatment.

Connor said the case took longer than it should have.

Frye finally received surgery for his injury Oct. 15, 2018 at Doctors Hospital in Augusta, before he was transferred to FCI Gilmer in West Virginia in November 2018.

The court said medical and nursing staff had the duty to timely and adequately assess Frye's facial injury, and recommend or refer him for imaging studies including a CT scan; refer Frye to a higher level of care for a complete evaluation and treatment; coordinate necessary care for Frye and secure treatment and surgical removal of the retained foreign object in his jaw, the lawsuit said.

The court said the medical and nursing staff failed to provide care and treatment within a standard of care from delay in providing care or securing treatment of the foreign body in Fryes jaw, the lawsuit said.

Frye was seeking to recover economic losses of medical services, which included the removal of the wooden object in his jaw and a follow-up appointment, damages for hearing loss, pain suffering, disfigurement, mental anguish, mental distress, anxiety, emotional injury, depression and loss of enjoyment of life.

"I think it's a fair amount given what he went through," Connor said.

Assistant attorney with the U.S. Attorney Office, District of South Carolina Robert Sneed who served as an attorney for the United States in the case said we will not be offering any comment.
In the wake of Wagener-Salley High School teacher Jeunelle Robinson's death last week, her family is seeking answers about how this could happen to someone with a sweet and kind spirit.

She was taken too soon and was a joy, Donovan Julian said about his daughter while holding back tears at a press conference Tuesday.

The family of the 31-year-old teacher and their attorney, Justin Bamberg, are seeking $130 million in damages.

All responsible parties that caused and contributed to this happening are who we are going after for the damages, Justin Bamberg said.

Bamberg said the damages include $20 million from utility companies to invest in power utility infrastructure for the towns of Wagener and Salley, another $10 million for a scholarship that will be in Robinsons name for any Aiken County students going to college to become teachers or any field in education, and $100 million for their loss and pain and suffering.

We are asking them to do the right thing and if they choose not to then we will sue them, Bamberg said.

On Aug. 23, a Peterbilt truck hit overhead utility lines, causing a defective utility pole to strike and kill Robinson as she walked down the street.

Bamberg said the pole that hit Robinson and other poles in the area are older than six decades and suffered from severe rot.

If the poles had been maintained or replaced, Bamberg told media during a press conference at his office, the poles wouldnt have easily snapped or been pulled out of the ground.

He said towns in rural South Carolina have been facing issues for years in getting simple things like infrastructure solved.

This absolutely could have been prevented if people had done their job, he said. The only reason why this happened was because a lot of people didnt do their job. Period."

Bamberg became emotional during the press conference because he understood her perseverance in becoming a teacher and what she went through and wanted to do something to help the family.

When I look in her eyes, I see myself, Bamberg said.

Donovan Julian said his daughter loved people, enjoyed church and was loved by her family and friends. He said her students will miss her a lot because she made a difference in their lives.

Those were her kids, he said. Her light and warmth will be missed."

Andrea Julian said one thing people dont know about her daughter is that she struggled with school. She said the school wanted her daughter tested for a learning disability, but they refused.

She said her daughter worked hard to become a teacher because she knew firsthand what kids were going through in school.

She was determined to become a teacher, she said. It was calling.

Her mother said she wants the community to read Psalm 139:14 .

I am fearfully and wonderfully made and would recite it when she was going through a lot," she said.

Andrea said she wants people to know that anything is possible.

Bamberg, a Democrat who represents Bamberg in the S.C. House of Representatives, said there are plans to file legislation that would hold utility companies accountable.

We need laws that mandate that during an inspection and when a pole is flagged or something that needs to be replaced, the utility would then have to report that, he said.

The goal is to eliminate risk to the public so similar accidents won't happen again .

S.C. Sen. Brad Hutto, D-Orangeburg, said he will work on getting some type of laws to help other rural towns in South Carolina.

Someone needs to monitor these utility companies, Hutto said.

Bamberg said Wagener-Salley High School will have a candlelight vigil for Robinson at 6 p.m. Thursday at the school.

Donovan Julian said the family has received a lot of support from the community, extended families and their church. He said it has become overwhelming and he feels thankful.

The comfort to know that she has touched so many people, he said.
In schools across South Carolina, students have been slower to return to pre-pandemic achievement in math than in English, underscoring how hard COVID-19 and virtual learning hit education in the key subject. Read moreCOVID still impacting math test scores more than English in SC. How does that add up?
SENECA  A shopping center similar to Hartwell Village is headed to Oconee County  this one aimed specifically at serving residents.

Landmark Development Partners got approval for its sign variances at 1810 Sandifer Blvd. in late August, paving the way for a mixed-use project on the 148-acre tract.

One house and three billboards currently sit on the property that is sandwiched between the Oconee Country Club and Walmart just outside Senecas city limits.

Landmarks Randy Smith told the Board of Zoning Appeals they are talking to national tenants and could have as many as 30 businesses in the development. A second variance was granted to increase building signage "required for a major national retailer," though he said no commitments had been made for the property.

Smith had a hand in the development of Riverbend Village in Charlotte, N.C.. That 115-acre site is home to apartments, townhomes, a hotel, healthcare facilities, a major grocer, office space and several shopping options.

Oconee County Councilman Julian Davis, who represents residents around the future retail center in District 4, said he expects a similar look and feel to the Seneca development as the one in North Carolina. It will likely remind shoppers of Hartwell Village on the county's eastern shore.

One of the key differences in aesthetics, he said, is that Landmark intends to build its closest buildings 750 feet away from Sandifer Boulevard, leaving a large buffer.

(The developer) is very well aware of the beautiful area, as he spends a lot of time in this area, Davis said. Im excited for the opportunity for that area and keeping more of Oconee County residents money in Oconee County.
PORT ROYAL  The largest, oldest live oak in Beaufort County sprouted from an acorn and rose from the ground more than a century before South Carolina was established as a state. The tree stood through the American Revolution and Civil War, hurricanes and  most recently  developers.

A preservation effort aims to keep the 350-year-old Cherry Hill Oak around for generations to come.

On Aug. 28, that effort took a step forward with unanimous approval by the Beaufort County Public Facilities and Safety Committee to recommend buying the land where the live oak stands. Committee members voted to recommend paying $1.55 million to acquire the 12 acres surrounding the tree, including the grave plot of Mary Pope. The price is 87% of the land's appraised value.

Some believe that Pope was an enslaved woman at the Cherry Hill Plantation who was buried near the tree in the mid-1800s. Chuck Yahres has tried to solve the mystery of who Pope was.

Yahres is a direct descendent of the Ellis family, the family acquired the Cherry Hill Plantation at some point prior to 1860. His research has hinted that Pope may have instead been a family friend of the Ellis family. He also noted that there are several Popes in his family tree.

Though Pope has the only marked grave on the property, others could have been laid to rest around the oak tree. The county might explore that possibility using ground-penetrating radar should it buy the land.

Pope's grave is a reminder that "the tree is a witness to the history of this place," said Hope Cunningham.

She is among a group of Beaufort County residents who rallied in defense of the Cherry Hill Oak in the summer of 2022 when a developer proposed an apartment complex be built around it.

Zoning for the property, which is off Oak View Road and sandwiched between Parris Island Gateway and the marshes on the west bank of Battery Creek, allows a maximum of 2 stories. Spartanburg-based Johnson Development Associates wanted to build three-story buildings.
Editors note: Candidates running opposed races for Summerville mayor and the Summerville Town Council District 2 seat were all asked to respond to the following questions. All candidates received the same set of questions and were asked to limit their responses to around 1,000 words total. Read moreQUESTIONS FOR CANDIDATES: Tiffany Johnson-Wilson
Families are invited to a day of ground-shaking excitement at the Steeplechase of Charleston on Sunday, Nov. 12. Since kids 12 and under are free, its a wonderful way to spend a fall afternoon outside together watching world-class horse racing. Read moreSteeplechase of Charleston is off to the races
CONWAY  Months after Horry County Schools banned its first books in 20 years, the school board heard from dozens of parents, staff and community members who packed the first meeting of the school year.

The district has removed 12 books from library shelves since the start of 2022 and restricted access to nine others, requiring students to receive parental permission before they can access them.

Despite the board not addressing the bans during its Aug. 28 meeting, supporters and opponents of the bans flocked to the board room to share their thoughts. Among them were such groups as Moms for Liberty, the Horry County Republican Party, the S.C. Education Association, the Horry County Democratic Party and the ACLU of South Carolina.

"Every taxpayer has the right to challenge a book if that book is inappropriate," said David Warner, the district parent whose sole complaints prompted the removal of the books.

Warner is the chairman of the Horry County chapter of Moms for Liberty, a controversial conservative parental rights' group that advocates against LGBTQ education and teaching critical race theory in schools. Some of his complaints were made before the county's chapter held its first meeting last January.

Members of Moms for Liberty have been involved in other statewide book ban efforts.
NORTH CHARLESTON  A 17-year-old facing a murder charge in what a prosecutor described as an ongoing feud between gangs will remain in custody for at least the next three months.

Ti'Zaveis Grampus is one of three young men charged in the June 4 shooting of 18-year-old Emmanuel Johnson on the 3300 block of Florida Avenue. The victim died the next day.

During Grampus bond hearing in Charleston County General Sessions Court on Aug. 29, Assistant Solicitor Stephanie Linder said Johnsons slaying was part of a feud between two groups, and investigators believe the rift is also responsible for the April shooting on the Isle of Palms and the Aug. 25 fatal shooting of two men on Leslie Street in North Charleston.

In Johnsons shooting, North Charleston Police investigators located video from the time of the 4:50 p.m. shooting on Florida Avenue when two men got out of a white car with guns, fired at Johnson then got back into the vehicle which fled the scene, Linder said.

The car carrying the suspected shooters appeared to have a tire going flat, the solicitor continued. A car matching the description of the getaway vehicle was found later that day with a flat tire. When processed, Grampus prints were found inside, Linder said.

Officers also found receipts from McDonalds that were printed half an hour before the shooting. That led to the collection of more video that showed the white vehicle traveling from the McDonalds to the scene of Johnsons shooting, Linder said.

Investigators believe Grampus was the driver.

Defense attorney Jason Bybee asked the court to consider bond for Grampus who at most played a limited role in the shooting and may not have known what would occur that day, he said. Grampus just turned 17 years old, his attorney said.

Circuit Judge Bentley Price said with the multiple shootings there needs to be a period of calm before he would consider bond. He suggested Bybee request another bond hearing in 90 days.
SULLIVAN'S ISLAND  Willie Nelson, a 5-year-old terrier mix, was walking on the beach with a caretaker and another dog early on a Saturday morning when the coyotes attacked.

Despite the 26-year-old woman's efforts to fend off the animals, Willie Nelson was carried off into the maritime forest in the jaws of a coyote and is presumed dead.

"Theres a gaping hole in our family right now that were trying to deal with," said owner Theo Jourdan of Mount Pleasant.

The attack at Station 27 at 6:30 a.m. Aug. 26 was one of four coyote attacks on dogs reported in that area during just the last 10 days of August, and a larger number of sightings.

In each case the attacks happened on the beach, not in the dunes or along the paths through the broad and dense maritime forest between the surf and the first row of homes.

This is the first time I know of that anyone has seen a dog carried off by a coyote," said Sullivan's Island Administrator Andrew Benke. "I can tell you we're going to increase the number of traps out there, particularly in the area where there have been encounters."

For years, Sullivan's Island and neighboring Isle of Palms have been recording dozens of coyote sightings each year, along with reports of missing cats and less-common attacks on dogs.

The recent spate of incidents on Sullivan's, most of them at stations 25, 26, and 27, have stood out for their aggressiveness and their location.

In nine incidents reported to Sullivan's Island during the last two weeks of August, coyotes stalked people and chased or attacked dogs on the beach, sometimes right at the water line.

Isle of Palms had just one coyote sighting reported in August and 25 so far in 2023, Administrator Desiree Fragoso said.

People are often advised that coyotes will retreat if people wave their arms, make noise, and throw things. Jourdan said a house-sitter who was walking his dog, and hers, tried all those things Saturday.
Ukraine is interested in resuming the functioning of the Black Sea Grain Initiative, from which the Russian Federation withdrew on July 17, but intends to strengthen and develop an alternative sea route for grain exports, along which two ships have already left Ukrainian ports, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba said.

Of course, after Russia's withdrawal from the Black Sea Grain Initiative, Ukrainian farmers and consumers or buyers of bread in Africa, in Asia, that is, in the countries where they need it most, suffered the most. These are the biggest, one might say, victims of Russian grain blackmail and the Russian Hunger Games, Kuleba said at a joint briefing with his French counterpart Catherine Colonna in Paris.

The Minister stressed that Ukraine is interested in resuming the functioning of the Black Sea Grain Initiative.

But we also, as Ukraine, as a state, have demonstrated that there is an alternative to agreements with the Russian Federation. There is a safe sea route, along which two ships have already left Ukrainian ports, and this route will not be a hostage of Russian blackmail. It can be developed, strengthened. And we, in particular, talked about how this route can be further developed, Kuleba said.

As reported, the Foreign Minister of Ukraine will visit the Czech Republic, the French Republic and the Kingdom of Spain this week. On August 29-30, in Paris, Kuleba will hold talks with the leadership of France and leading companies of the French military-industrial complex. At the invitation of his French colleague Catherine Colonna, he will also be an honorary guest of the conference of French ambassadors.
NORTH CHARLESTON  Democratic presidential candidate Marianne Williamson endorsed mayoral candidate Stephanie Ganaway-Pasley Aug. 29 during her first of three stops in the Charleston area.

Ganaway-Pasley "doesn't just want to go in and try to tweak things here and tweak things there, she wants to bring about a fundamental reorientation of how we see a city, a community, our children, our food, our policies, our education," Williamson told a crowd of a dozen people inside City Hall.

Williamson said she was introduced to Ganaway-Pasley and concluded their platforms align after discussing the mayoral candidate's plans for North Charleston on various occasions.

Ganaway-Pasley said she seeks to approach the criminal justice system with a rehabilitation mindset, improve walkability in the city and address mental health in the millennial population. As a retired summary court judge, Ganaway-Pasley said she understands ways to address legal issues and interpret South Carolina law. She ran for Charleston County probate judge in 2018 and 2022, but lost both races to longtime Republican incumbent Irv Condon.

Williamson only spoke for about a minute to announce her endorsement and passed the microphone to Ganaway-Pasley who briefly outlined her platform for a couple of minutes.

Williamson's South Carolina tour included stops in Rock Hill, Fort Mill and Aiken over the last several days. She told The Post and Courier that her experience in South Carolina mirrors the rest of the country.

"Now more than ever, the underlying dynamics of peril and possibility are the same everywhere," said Williamson, who is a spiritual leader and author of many self-help books.

Williamson said she supports universal health care, student loan forgiveness and a guaranteed living wage. She added that many Americans live in "chronic economic stress" and cannot afford minor unexpected expenses.
WALTERBORO  Prosecutors elicited testimony on the first day of a murder trial Aug. 29 to cast Rita Pangalangan as a neglectful mother who intentionally left her 13-year-old disabled daughter inside a car for hours in the thick of summer.

The teen, Cristina Pangalangan, died of heatstroke on Aug. 5, 2019, inside a Volkswagen parked outside a residence on Lowcountry Highway in Colleton County.

Cristina was left in the car for five hours and 41 minutes after the mother and her then-boyfriend, Larry Eugene King Jr., placed the teen in the backseat while they were under the influence of methamphetamine, according to 14th Circuit Solicitor Duffie Stone, who is prosecuting the case.

Cristina suffered from cerebral palsy, which rendered her speechless and confined to a wheelchair. Her condition prevented her from opening the car door or shouting out for help.

Rita Pangalangan served as a schoolteacher for a quarter-century in Colleton County, where she was twice recognized as teacher of the year. She and King are standing trial in General Sessions Court this week on charges including murder, criminal conspiracy and unlawful conduct toward a child.

Despite her achievements teaching children, prosecutors contend Rita Pangalangan neglected her daughter.

Testimony from two women on Aug. 29 called into question the mothers parenting.

Lindsay Lewis was an 18-year-old aspiring nurse in the summer of 2019. Pangalangan, her teacher, thought Lewis could gain experience taking care of Cristina, Lewis testified.

Cristina died on a Monday. The prior Friday evening, Lewis testified, she agreed to watch Cristina alone so that Pangalangan could go on a date with King. It was the first time she looked after the girl on her own. To the 18-year-olds surprise, the mother did not return until Sunday evening, leaving her alone with the child all weekend. Rita Pangalangan told Lewis she was helping King recover from food poisoning.
Charleston, SC (29403)

Today

Cloudy early, becoming mostly sunny this afternoon. Near record high temperatures. High 83F. Winds SW at 5 to 10 mph..

Tonight

Some clouds. Low around 60F. Winds light and variable.
The following content is available to all readers as a part of our public service coverage of Idalias impact to South Carolina. We rely on the support of our subscribers to pay for important work like this. Please consider subscribing today.

Updated at 11 a.m. Aug. 30.

FLORENCE  Hurricane Idalia made landfall in the Big Bend area of Florida just before 8 a.m. Aug. 30 as a category 3 hurricane. The hurricane's outer bands have brought cloud cover to the Pee Dee. Rain is expected from 11 a.m. Aug. 30 through 3 p.m. Aug. 31.

Idalia's track takes the the eye of the storm from Savannah, Georgia through the lower portion of South Carolina. If the path doesn't change, the hurricane will cross from land into the Atlantic Ocean between Charleston and Georgetown in the afternoon of Aug. 31.

There is a possibility of tornadoes as the hurricane treks through South Carolina.

The National Weather Service in Wilmington, N.C. predicts rain and thunderstorm through the night Aug. 30 and into the afternoon Aug. 31.

Chesterfield, Marlboro and Dillon counties could experience 3 to 5 inches of rain Aug. 30-31. Clear skies will return by nightfall Aug. 31, according to the National Weather Service forecast.

Florence, Darlington, Marion and Lee counties will experience showers and thunderstorms through early afternoon Aug. 30. In the afternoon, thunderstorms and heavy rainfall are predicted. The heavy rain is expected to continue through the night of Aug. 30 and into the afternoon of Aug. 31.

Rainfall totals will range from 6 to 8 inches, according to the National Weather Service forecast. Areas that usually flood during heavy rains in the city of Florence and Florence County will likely flood again.
COLUMBIA  The state Supreme Court will not reconsider its ruling on South Carolina's abortion ban, keeping it illegal at roughly six weeks into a pregnancy.

In another 4-1 split, justices denied abortion providers' request for a rehearing.

"The court is unable to discover that any material fact or principle of law has been either overlooked or disregarded," read the majority opinion signed Aug. 29.

But a new challenge could be coming from Planned Parenthood and the Greenville Women's Clinic.

Pointing to his stinging dissent last week, Chief Justice Don Beatty not only disagreed with the refusal but outright encouraged the providers to quickly file a new lawsuit on the question of when a fetal heartbeat can truly be detected.

"Nothing prevents respondents from expeditiously filing a new complaint" challenging the constitutionality of the law as applied, Beatty wrote.

He encouraged them to ask the state's high court to again take the case directly, bypassing the lower courts.

Attorney General Alan Wilson applauded the refusal, saying it reaffirms his opinion that the state constitution's privacy guarantee does not apply to abortion.

"The right to life is foremost and absolutely must be protected and prioritized," Wilson said in a media release. "I believe this decision will have a long-lasting positive impact on the future of our state, and Im honored our office was able to fight for the unborn and defend the rule of law."

A spokesman for Gov. Henry McMaster said the court's decision was fully expected.

It came a week after justices upheld South Carolina's so-called "fetal heartbeat" law, allowing it to take effect. The law had been suspended since McMaster signed it in May.

Justice John Kittredge, who is set to become chief justice when Beatty retires next year, said the question hinged on a single word in the constitution's privacy clause: "Unreasonable."

While the law clearly infringes on women's right to privacy, what's an unreasonable invasion of that privacy in order to protect life is a matter of policy up to the Legislature, not the court, he wrote Aug. 23 for the majority.
This classic format episode of the Power Line podcast features me all by himself, and breaks some news: I am returning to Pepperdine University in the spring semester of this academic year as the Edward Gaylord Visiting Professor at the School of Public Policy. I will be filling the large shoes of the late Ted McAllister, who passed away earlier this year, leaving a big hole in the SPP program.

Pepperdines SPP Dean Pete Peterson asked me to offer the faculty address to this years incoming class of graduate students during orientation last week, and I spoke on the relevant contemporary lessons from Max Webers famous lecture Politics as a Vocation, which intersects perfectly with Karl Roves Wall Street Journal essay over the weekend on how America has sometimes been in much worse shape than today. True, but not exhaustive, and supposing natural cycles of history will take us out of our current funk is likely a mistake, akin to fiddling while Rome burns.

In one sentence, my message to incoming students is that theyll need to step up their game even more than they might have thought. Thats what Weber told students in 1919, and his lesson didnt fully take. I thought some listeners might like to take it in. (The episode is 33 minutes long.)

So listen here, or over at our hosts at Ricochet.
A search conducted by the National Archives and Records Administration turned up nearly 5,400 records containing one of three pseudonymous email accounts President Joe Biden had used during his vice presidency. Those email addresses include: robinwa[email protected], [email protected], and [email protected].

NARA was responding to a June 2022 Freedom of Information Act request from the Southeastern Legal Foundation, a nonprofit constitutional legal group.

In a June 28, 2022 letter to SLF, NARA wrote: We have performed a search of our collection for Vice Presidential records related to your request and have identified approximately 5,138 email messages, 25 electronic files and 200 pages of potentially responsive records that must be processed in order to respond to your request.

Since that letter was written 14 months ago, SLF has heard nothing from NARA. This prompted the group to file a lawsuit against the agency on Monday to obtain the records alluded to in NARAs initial response.

According to a website announcement of this legal action, SLF noted they filed their first request for Bidens emails in 2021:

NARA responded that because it did not take custody of then-vice presidents records until January 20, 2017, the emails could not be made public until January 20, 2022. In 2022, SLF renewed its request with a second FOIA request that is at the heart of SLFs lawsuit. NARA has failed to produce a single one of these emails.

SLF also mentions that earlier this month, House Oversight Committee Chairman James Comer demanded NARA turn over unredacted copies of these emails, among others.

The statement quotes Kimberly Hermann, the groups general counsel:

All too often, public officials abuse their power by using it for their personal or political benefit. When they do, many seek to hide it. The only way to preserve governmental integrity is for NARA to release Bidens nearly 5,400 emails to SLF and thus the public. The American public deserves to know what is in them.

Hunter Bidens laptop has certainly been the gift that keeps on giving, hasnt it? I would love to have been a fly on the wall when Joe Biden learned that his sons abandoned laptop had been handed over to the New York Post!
As mentioned here previously, environmentalists cheered Illinois Gov. Jay Pritzker for vetoing a bill to allow nuclear power, saying he stood for climate action, which is the opposite of the truth if you believe in climate apocalypse. It turns out the preponderance of activism, at least as measured in financial resources, is on the anti-nuke side, as it long has been:

But is it possible that despite all this advantage, the anti-nuke madness is losing its hold:
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Not for distribution to United States newswire services or for dissemination in the United StatesVANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / August 29, 2023 / Aztec Minerals Corp. (TSXV:AZT)(OTCQB:AZZTF) ("Aztec" or the "Company") announces that, further to its news release dated August 8, 2023, the Company has closed the first tranche (the "First Tranche") of its non-brokered private placement (the "Private Placement"), consisting of 4,051,450 units (the "Units") at a price of CAD$0.225 per Unit for gross proceeds of CAD$911,576. Each Unit is comprised of one common share of the Company and one half of one transferable common share purchase warrant (the "Warrants"). Each whole Warrant is exercisable to purchase one common share of the Company at a price of CAD$0.30 per share for a period of three years from the closing date of the First Tranche.Due to investor interest in the private placement, Aztec intends to increase the financing from the original stated amount of up to CAD$1 million to up to CAD$1.2 million. Closing of the second and final tranche of the Private Placement is expected to occur on or before September 12, 2023, and is subject to certain conditions including, but not limited to, the receipt of all necessary approvals including the approval of the TSX Venture Exchange.The Company paid aggregate cash finder's fees of $17,032.50 and issued 75,700 non-transferable finder warrants to certain finders and brokers on a portion of the First Tranche of the Private Placement. 18,142 of the finder warrants have the same terms as the Warrants and 19,180 of the finder warrants are each exercisable to purchase one common share of the Company at a price of CAD$0.225 per share for a period of two years from the closing date of the First Tranche.The Company intends to use the proceeds of the Private Placement to conduct exploration work on its Cervantes porphyry gold-copper project in Sonora, Mexico, and its Tombstone epithermal gold-silver & CRD silver-lead-zinc-copper-gold project in Arizona, USA, as well as for general corporate purposes and working capital.All securities issued pursuant to the First Tranche of the Private Placement are subject to a statutory hold period of four months and one day from the closing date in accordance with applicable Canadian securities laws.About Aztec Minerals - Aztec is a mineral exploration company focused on two emerging discoveries in North America. The Cervantes project is an emerging porphyry gold-copper discovery in Sonora, Mexico. The Tombstone project is an emerging gold-silver discovery with high grade CRD silver-lead-zinc potential in southern Arizona. Aztec's shares trade on the TSX-V stock exchange (symbol AZT) and on the OTCQB (symbol AZZTF).Contact Information - For more information, please contact:Simon Dyakowski, President & CEO, DirectorTel: (604) 619-7469Fax: (604) 685-9744Email: simon@ aztecminerals.com Website: www.aztecminerals.com Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy nor shall there be any sale of any of the securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful, including any of the securities in the United States of America. The securities have not been and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "1933 Act") or any state securities laws and may not be offered or sold within the United States or to, or for account or benefit of, U.S. Persons (as defined in Regulation S under the 1933 Act) unless registered under the 1933 Act and applicable state securities laws, or an exemption from such registration requirements is available.Forward-Looking StatementsThis news release contains "forwardlooking information or statements" within the meaning of applicable securities laws, which may include, without limitation, the Private Placement and use of proceeds, other statements relating to the technical, financial and business prospects of the Company and other matters. All statements in this news release, other than statements of historical facts, that address events or developments that the Company expects to occur, are forward-looking statements. Although the Company believes the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results may differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements. Such statements and information are based on numerous assumptions regarding present and future business strategies and the environment in which the Company will operate in the future, including the price of metals, the ability to achieve its goals, the ability to secure equipment and personnel, that general business and economic conditions will not change in a material adverse manner and that financing will be available if and when needed and on reasonable terms. Such forward-looking information reflects the Company's views with respect to future events and is subject to risks, uncertainties and assumptions, including those filed under the Company's profile on SEDAR+ at sedarplus.ca . Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in forward looking statements include, but are not limited to, continued availability of capital and financing and general economic, market or business conditions, adverse weather/climate conditions, equipment failures, access to personnel and equipment, decrease in the price of gold, copper, silver, and other metals, failure to maintain all necessary government permits, approvals and authorizations, failure to maintain community acceptance, increase in costs, litigation, and failure of counterparties to perform their contractual obligations. The Company does not undertake to update forwardlooking statements or forwardlooking information, except as required by law.SOURCE: Aztec Minerals Corp.
The National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) and the Special Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office (SAPO) exposed a criminal group that seized the property of the municipal enterprise Odesa International Airport worth UAH 118 million and income from its activities in the amount of more than UAH 2.5 billion during 2012-2022.

The NABU press center said on Tuesday that they were notified of suspicion: two Odesa businessmen co-organizers of the scheme under Part 3 of Article 27, Part 5 of Article 191 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine (appropriation, embezzlement or seizure of property through abuse of office), the former mayor of Odesa under Part 5 of Article 191, Part 2 of Article 366 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine (official forgery), the former acting Deputy Mayor of Odesa under Part 5 of Article 191 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine, the director of a limited liability company - Part 5 of Article 191 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine (appropriation, embezzlement or possession of property by abuse of official position).

As the investigation established, in 2011, two well-known Odesa businessmen organized a scheme to seize the property of Odesa International Airport. To do this, a limited liability company (LLC) was registered, which was supposed to establish a joint company with the Odesa City Council, with the distribution of shares of 75% and 25%, respectively. This LLC was supposed to acquire ownership and further privatize the property complex of the airport worth about UAH 118 million.

Obtaining the consent of the deputies of the City Council for the creation of the company was ensured by the then mayor, talking about the alleged plans of the co-founder to invest in the airport's development. In addition, the official committed an official forgery, which provided the controlled LLC with the right to form a joint company with the Odesa City Council, bypassing the competition.

NABU said that the airport's property received for joint use was not subject to privatization, since it was of national importance and ensured the fulfillment of the functions of border and customs control.

In addition, under the agreement, investors were obliged to contribute UAH 355 million to the authorized capital, to build a new terminal and a runway. However, due to the actions of the participants in the scheme, most of the funds deposited became the subject of collateral and were blocked by the bank. The new terminal was built with a loan secured by the airport's property complex, and the runway was not started at all.

The post of mayor of Odesa in the period 2011-2014 was held by Oleksiy Kostusev.

The issue of choosing a custody status for the suspects is being decided.
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BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS / ACCESSWIRE / August 29, 2023 / Bradda Head Lithium Limited (AIM:BHL)(TSXV:BHLI)(OTCQB:BHLIF), the North America-focused lithium development company, today announces that it has agreed with Charles FitzRoy that he will stand down from his role as Chief Executive Officer and Board Director, with immediate effect.Mr FitzRoy will retain his share options outlined in the AIM announcements dated 6 April 2023.The Chairman of the Board, Mr Ian Stalker, will assume the interim role of Executive Chairman. A search for a new CEO will begin immediately.Mr Stalker, Interim Executive Chairman, commented: "I'd like to thank Charles for his input and commitment over the last 30 months, most notably in listing the Company in Summer 2021 where 6.2 million was raised, securing a royalty partnership later that same year, and in raising approximately 10 million of fresh equity-capital in Spring of 2022. On behalf of the Board, I wish Charles the best for the future. The Board is focused on operations and delivering results on the ground in America and will look to appoint an appropriate successor in the near future." Charles FitzRoy, commented: " I am moving on from Bradda Head after two and half years where the Company has gone from private to listed on three exchanges in the UK, US, and Canada. Raised US$24 million for progressing Bradda's US projects, and a further US$8 million was secured via a royalty. The assets have grown in both size of landholding, knowledge of the geology and also in-the-ground resources. The last two and half years have been a very rewarding experience working closely with all members of Bradda, especially the US on the ground team and I am proud of what we have achieved. I have enjoyed my time immensely moving our assets forwards, building relationships within Arizona for the long-term, and growing the Company. BHL has some fantastic projects which strategically have little rival. The Company is extremely well positioned in the US for future success. I look forward to cheering from the side-lines." For further information please visit the Company's website: www.braddaheadltd.com Contact:Bradda Head Lithium Limited+44 (0) 1624 639 396Ian Stalker, Executive ChairmanDenham Eke, Finance DirectorBeaumont Cornish (Nomad)James Biddle/Roland Cornish+44 20 7220 1666Panmure Gordon (Joint Broker)+44 20 7886 2500John PriorHugh RichShard Capital (Joint Broker)+44 207 186 9927Damon HeathIsabella PierreRed Cloud (North American Broker)+1 416 803 3562Joe FarsTavistock (PR)+ 44 20 7920 3150Nick ElwesAdam Baynesbraddahead@ tavistock.co.uk Notes to EditorsBradda Head Lithium Ltd. is a North America-focused lithium development group. The Company currently has interests in a variety of projects, the most advanced of which are in Central and Western Arizona: The Basin Project (Basin East Project, and the Basin West Project) and the Wikieup Project.The Basin East Project has an Indicated Mineral Resource of 21.2 Mt at an average grade of 891 ppm Li and 3.5% K for a total of 100 kt LCE and an Inferred Mineral Resource of 73.3 Mt at an average grade of 694 ppm Li and 3.2% K for a total of 271 kt LCE. In the rest of the Basin Project SRK has estimated an Exploration Target of between 300 to 1,300 Mt of material grading between 600 to 850 ppm Li which is equivalent to a range of between 1 to 6 Mt LCE. The Group intends to continue to develop its three phase one projects in Arizona, whilst endeavouring to unlock value at its other prospective pegmatite and brine assets in Arizona, Nevada, and Pennsylvania. All of Bradda Head's licences are held on a 100% equity basis and are in close proximity to the required infrastructure.Bradda Head is quoted on the AIM of the London Stock Exchange with the ticker of BHL, on the TSX Ventures exchange with a ticker of BHLI, and on the US OTCQB market with a ticker of BHLIF.This information is provided by RNS, the news service of the London Stock Exchange. RNS is approved by the Financial Conduct Authority to act as a Primary Information Provider in the United Kingdom. Terms and conditions relating to the use and distribution of this information may apply. For further information, please contact rns@ lseg.com or visit www.rns.com SOURCE: Bradda Head Lithium Limited
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SAN ANTONIO, TX / ACCESSWIRE / August 29, 2023 / Bridgehead IT, a leading provider of enterprise-level IT solutions, today announced the formation of Bridgehead IT Holdings ahead of accelerated growth. The new company is the result of a strategic partnership between Bridgehead IT and SideKick Operators, an operationally focused investment and advisory firm that specializes in advising businesses on large-scale growth and expansion.+"We are excited to partner with SideKick Operators," said Wes Bunch, CEO of Bridgehead IT. "We are well positioned to be the partner of choice for businesses seeking leading-edge, enterprise IT services. Together, we are confident that we can reach more businesses with our turnkey technology solutions that support every size company and industry." This partnership is a significant step forward for Bridgehead IT. With the support of SideKick Operators, the company is well-positioned to achieve its goal of becoming a nation-wide leader in enterprise-level IT solutions."Bridgehead IT is a great example of a company that is poised for tremendous growth," said Justin Steen, CEO of SideKick Operators. "They have a strong team in place, a proven track record of success, and a clear vision for the future. We are thrilled to partner with them and share in their mission." As part of the partnership, SideKick Operators will provide Bridgehead IT with proven strategic guidance and access to its network of relationships. This will allow Bridgehead IT to strategically expand to new locations, grow its workforce, and acquire complementary businesses."This partnership is a major milestone for Bridgehead IT," said Bunch. "It will allow us to take our business to the next level and redefine the future of how companies are powered by technology." About Bridgehead ITBridgehead IT is headquartered in San Antonio, TX and is a leading provider of IT solutions for businesses. Led by co-founders Wes Bunch, CEO, and Chris Brandvik, COO, they serve clients ranging from publicly traded, global entities to mid-sized local businesses. Bridgehead IT focuses on end-to-end, custom-tailored technology services engineered to meet business needs. https://www.bridgeheadit.com/ About SideKick OperatorsFor more than 4 decades, the partners of SideKick Operators have been building long lasting and sustainable companies across North America. SideKick is a strategic investment and advisory firm investing in mission critical trades providing repair, maintenance, inspection, and testing services. The company joins in partnership with business leaders to build national brand reputations through operational excellence. SideKick comes from a history with a deep-rooted appreciation for founder and family-owned businesses. https://www.sidekickoperators.com/ Press Contact:Lauren Serrato, Director of Marketing | (210) 400-6113 | lserrato@ bridgeheadit.com SOURCE: Bridgehead IT, Inc.
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The Academy of Regional and Global Governance at Beijing Foreign Studies University Publishes a Report on this Historic OccasionBEIJING, CHINA / ACCESSWIRE / August 29, 2023 / China's significant role in the BRICS partnership marked its 17th year anniversary, a period of consistent commitment to building a harmonious world order based on mutual understanding, coexistence, and shared prosperity. The "Integration" approach, unique to China, has demonstrated its efficacy in promoting global equilibrium while countering Western-centric ideologies. According to a report published by the Academy of Regional and Global Governance at Beijing Foreign Studies University, the BRICS nations celebrate their 17th year of collaboration, underscoring China's diplomatic acumen in fostering meaningful global partnerships.The BRICS group-comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa-has evolved into a dynamic force driving equitable and progressive international relations, notably propelled by China's visionary initiatives.China's adept utilization of the "Belt and Road Initiative" has yielded visionary concepts such as the "China-ASEAN Community of Shared Destiny" and the "China-Central Asia Community of Shared Destiny." These concepts, alongside the steadily emerging triad of BRICS, the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), and the Belt and Road Initiative, have solidified China's diplomatic toolkit.China's vision, driven by the "Belt and Road Initiative," has led to groundbreaking collaborative efforts in creating the "China-ASEAN Community of Common Destiny" and the "China-Central Asia Community of Common Destiny." The BRICS, along with the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) and the Belt and Road Initiative, constitute the three pivotal pillars of China's foreign diplomacy.The expansion of the BRICS partnership is a testament to the organization's commitment to inclusivity and cooperation. Originally comprised of Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, the BRICS Five has now been joined by Algeria, with Belarus expressing its intent to join this influential multilateral framework.A hallmark of China's foreign policy has been the establishment of communities of shared destiny with neighboring regions, Asia-Pacific, Africa, the Arab world, and Latin America. This novel approach, distinguished by inclusivity rather than confrontation, counters the traditional "Western-centric" narrative while championing global cooperation.The BRICS consortium, considered one of the world's paramount multilateral frameworks, exemplifies the transformative dynamics of contemporary international power structures. As the international landscape evolves, BRICS has consistently steered the global system towards fairness and reasonableness, aligning with prevailing global trends.Since assuming the BRICS chairmanship in 2010, China has actively nurtured collaboration, leading to the inclusion of South Africa as the fifth member-transforming the "BRICS Four" into the "BRICS Five." Recent developments have further highlighted the collective influence of emerging markets and developing nations, with Algeria and Belarus expressing interest in joining the BRICS family.China's dedicated efforts within the BRICS community have left an indelible "Chinese mark." From driving global economic resurgence to advocating international equity, China's role remains irreplaceable. Notably, as the world faces unprecedented change, the BRICS alliance adapts to the evolving global dynamics.However, challenges lie ahead. BRICS nations, represented by Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, navigate the complex terrain of economic rejuvenation amid geopolitical fluctuations. Striving for cohesion and sustainable growth, these nations continue to fine-tune their cooperative mechanisms.As the BRICS bloc embarks on its seventeenth year, the enduring question resonates: What chapter of global transformation will the BRICS Five, bolstered by China's visionary leadership, inscribe on the world stage? The international community watches with anticipation, eager to witness the unfolding of the "BRICS era." Contact: Mingxuan LongEmail: greenfelder3k.axill@gmail.com SOURCE: Academy of Regional and Global Governance at Beijing Foreign Studies University
PR-Inside.com: 2023-08-29 23:32:23

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NEW YORK, NY / ACCESSWIRE / August 29, 2023 / Clevertech, a technology consultancy known for building industry-leading, custom software solutions utilizing their RemoteNative workforce, announces two growth-minded additions to the executive team. Kim Gallagher has been appointed as the chief nancial ocer (CFO), and Christi Sodano as the vice president and head of global marketing.Chief Financial Officer, Kim Gallagher Gallagher brings a wealth of nancial expertise to Clevertech and with her guidance, the organization will prioritize building infrastructure to support sustainable growth. "I am delighted to be a part of Clevertech's journey, contributing to our solid foundation by making strategic investments for the future - propelling the company to new heights." Previously, Gallagher held inuential positions in a diverse set of industries, including airline, retail, manufacturing, nancial services, and insurance. Notably, she accomplished a successful initial public oering at Vera Bradley, completed complex mergers and acquisitions, and navigated a nancial restructuring. Gallagher holds a masters of business administration from Bowling Green State University and is a certied public accountant (CPA)."We are excited to welcome Kim Gallagher as our new CFO. Her strategic, nancial acumen and leadership skills will undoubtedly bolster our growth trajectory and bring a valued experience set into our management team," said Clevertech's CEO Kuty Shalev.Vice President, Global Head of Marketing, Christi Sodano Christi Sodano assumes the role of vice president and head of global marketing, where she will lead Clevertech's branding, integrated marketing, content partnerships, and communications. With a strong track record of driving innovative marketing for consulting service providers to achieve meaningful growth, Sodano will play a pivotal role in Clevertech's continued success in the global technology landscape.Prior to joining Clevertech in June 2023, Sodano served as global marketing director at Boston Consulting Group (BCG), where she managed impactful global campaigns focused on business resilience and marketing for BCG's digital and technology capabilities. Her expertise in digital customer experience, gained from her time at Accenture, further enhances Clevertech's demand generation capabilities."Clevertech is thrilled to have Christi Sodano lead our global marketing eorts. She brings invaluable experience from leading consultancies - her background and strategic vision will drive the expansion of our brand and amplify our engagement with clients and technology leaders worldwide," stated Clevertech's President Michael Hagler.These appointments mark an exciting chapter for Clevertech as the company continues to innovate and expand its footprint with industry-leading clients.For media inquiries, please contact:Christi SodanoVice President, Head of Global Marketing christi.sodano@clevertech.biz About Clevertech:Clevertech is a forward-thinking technology consultancy that delivers innovative solutions to drive business success. With a team of dedicated experts, Clevertech empowers companies to navigate the ever-evolving tech landscape and stay ahead of the curve.SOURCE: Clevertech
PR-Inside.com: 2023-08-29 14:32:39

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NORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / August 29, 2023 / Cisco Systems Inc.This blog was prepared with deep thanks to Cisco employee volunteer Haitham Al-Shabibi.Climate change is an issue we can't solve alone, yet it seems like very few of those working to solve it have a big picture view of who is already working on what or where their work fits into the broader solutions landscape. Without a collaborative approach, effectiveness of private philanthropic and impact investment capital is severely limited. Climate funders need transparency, effective tools, and a holistic view of the landscape in order to make better decisions to set high-impact priorities.The Climate Finance Tracker (CFT) is a suite of visual interfaces engineered by Vibrant Data Labs (VDL), an organization housed in Berkeley, California, that combines data and network theory into flexible tools, to tackle systemic social challenges like climate change. The CFT visualizes climate funding flows to organizations and companies on the ground. What started as a simple United States finance tracker is now poised to scale into Europe, Africa, and Latin America.In 2021, VDL became a recipient of a grant via Cisco Foundation's Climate Impact & Regeneration commitment to build out an initial prototype of the CFT. Since launching the CFT fall of 2022 in partnership with One Earth & Impact Alpha, they have been overwhelmed by the positive response. It has led to active collaborations with Climate Policy Initiative, ClimateWorks Foundation, Elemental Excelerator, Forbes, Global Commons Alliance, Summit Impact, and TED.The partnership between Vibrant Data Labs and Cisco Foundation is built on the shared belief that by building capacity, improving transparency, and supporting funders and decision makers, efforts addressing the climate crisis can be much more effective.We recently caught up with Eric Berlow, founder of Vibrant Data Labs and co-creator of the CFT, who was awarded an Emerson Collective Climate Fellowship. He shared more about his background, philosophy, and goals.Can you tell us a bit more about your background?Eric: Yes, so I have a PhD in marine ecology and in particular I work to understand nature as a complex system. You can't do that kind of work in nature without being able to deal with noisy data and statistics, so as a result I had to develop a strong background in data science and network theory.I worked in Yosemite National Park for five years for the University of California running a research institute, trying to bridge science, policy, and natural resource management for evidence-based decision making. We had a big, collaborative project synthesizing satellite and on-the-ground data to predict where threatened amphibian species were breeding. The data helped prioritize where limited park resources should be allocated to protect the species.How does your background in ecology help inform the CFT?Eric: Well, that is exactly how the CFT works - we use data to see the big picture and to help prioritize where funding efforts should go, given that resources are limited.Another way to think about it is: If you map out who eats who in an ecosystem, you have complex flows of energy that comprise an entire food web. Turns out, those network structures are not random. They're really critical for how those systems persist, and why they don't crash. Instead of analyzing who eats whom, we're using the same statistics to analyze who funds whom. Now, we have a funding ecosystem.My passion over the past decade has been thinking about how ecological theory can inform solutions to complex problems, like climate. It requires a big picture of understanding multiple causality. There is no one silver bullet, there's no one moon shot.If you could sum up what the CFT is trying to solve, what would it be?Eric: The public CFT is a visual Rolodex. It's about overcoming myopia, which I think is the root cause of so many of those complex problems. But the main goal is to promote discovery and foster collaboration so people can see who's doing what, avoid duplication, and fill in gaps where funding is missing.We are also hoping to help people see that the success of an investment is dependent on other investments, too. Let's say you have great investments with electric vehicles (EVs), but not with chargers or grid upgrades, that investment could fail. It will be critical to fill those gaps.At the end of the day, we want to make it easy for someone to poke around and paint a picture of where money is flowing in different climate spaces.You mentioned "silver bullets" and "funding gaps," can you explain this a bit further?Eric: Imagine you are in a community that is trying to grow a tree. You know it needs sun, water, nitrogen and phosphorous to grow. If any one of these is missing, it dies. If everybody just gives it water, it dies. Everyone needs to know what that tree is getting, and what is missing. The most important thing to contribute is always whatever is missing.Here in the US, we have a "silver bullet" mentality, where one thing will solve it. This idea of, Just give the tree water, and it lives', which isn't the case. Let's take the renewable energy and mobility transition. You could have great investments in renewable power generation like solar and electric vehicles. But if you don't have upgrades in distribution through our aging grid, it doesn't matter. If you don't have your charging infrastructure, it won't work, and those other investments fail.It wasn't until pulling together data on who is funding what and where that I realized what a huge opportunity for impact is this issue of filling gaps. If one thing is missing, we fail. If we want to have an impact, we need to find where funding is lacking. And the only way to find those gaps is to see where the money is flowing.To identify those gaps, you'd have to have tags and categories in the first place, correct? How does that work?Eric: We currently start with philanthropy and investment data from Candid and Crunchbase (with more on the way!). We then gather, from online sources, more data on how the grantees and investees describe their work. This allows us then - using various methods, including natural language processing and machine learning - to categorize the organizations and let them self-organize into themes - all based around who is working on similar things.A key challenge has been to develop a method for searching for climate relevant' investments and grants. To do that we start with broad topic searches - for things like climate%
PR-Inside.com: 2023-08-29 14:00:16

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Highlights in H1 include 115.8% increase in subscription revenue, 63.3% increase in total revenue, and 167% increase in gross profit compared to the first half of 2022.Key Developments:The Company has announced 20 new commercial contracts from January 1, 2023 to date, compared to 28 contracts/extensions signed in all of FY-2022.Total Revenue to June 30 of $946,373 represents an increase of 63.3% compared to the same period in 2022 due to increases in both new contracts signed and growth of existing contracts.Gross profit to June 30 was $690,505, or 167% higher than in H1-2022 due to increased Subscription and Product revenue from new customers.Important new/extended contracts announced: 7 new Community Paramedic contracts; RFP win with Mohawk Medbuy; RFO win with Western Canadian Primary Care NetworkKITCHENER, ON / ACCESSWIRE / August 29, 2023 / Cloud DX (TSXV:CDX) (OTCQB:CDXFF), a leading North American digital health platform and provider of remote patient monitoring (RPM) solutions, is pleased to report results for the 3 months and 6 months ending June 30, 2023.Earnings Call Webinar:Tuesday August 29th 202311:00 AM PDT / 2:00 PM EDTRegistration - click here2023 Second Quarter Financial Highlights2023 Six Month Financial HighlightsSummary of Results:RevenueFor the quarter ended June 30, 2023, total reported revenue of $378,367 increased by $136,141 or 56.2% compared to the same quarter in 2022. Product revenue was flat, with a small decrease of $578 or 0.6% and professional services revenue increased by $31,563 or 116.3%. Subscription revenue increased by $98,964 or 88.5% vs Q1 2022 due primarily to increased patient enrollment across all our Canadian contracts. Government grant funding was $84,413 in the quarter, a 72.9% decrease from the same period in 2022 due primarily to timing of payments on active grants. Government grant funding payments routinely fluctuate from period to period.For the six months ended June 30, 2023, total revenue of $946,373 increased by $366,884 or 63.3% compared to the same period in 2022. Product revenue increased by $89,121 or 27% due to new customers in Canada and the US purchasing Connected Health Kits. Professional services revenue increased by $40,495 or 80.4% due to increased integration, customization and services orders from large government and hospital customers. Subscription revenue increased by $229,926 or 115.8% vs this period in 2022 due to large and ongoing increases in patient enrollment as new contracts signed in Q1 and Q2 come on-stream. Government grant funding was $165,300 in the six months, a 58.3% decrease from the same period in 2022 due primarily to timing of payments on active grants, and an expected reduction in the Company's dependance on government grants. Fluctuations in professional services and grant funding amounts from period to period are not unusual for Cloud DX.ExpensesSecond quarter operating expenses decreased $608,654 or 22.9% in the quarter compared to the same period in 2022, mainly due to cost reduction measures adopted beginning in Q1 2023. This trend in lower operating costs plus higher revenues generated a gross profit increase of $180,152 or 148.4% in the quarter.Six-month operating expenses decreased $374,895 or 7.5% for the six months ended June 30, 2023 compared to the same period in 2022, again due to reduction in operating expenses, particularly salaries and consulting fees, along with additional efficiencies.The impact of cost-cutting activities will continue to play out in subsequent quarters. Please see the Q2 Consolidated Financial Statements and Q2 MD&A for more details.Details of New Contracts to date, 2023The Company announced 17 new, expanded or extended commercial contracts as of June 30, 2023, and 3 contracts subsequently, totaling 20 compared to 28 contracts/extensions in all of 2021.In the United States, the Company announced a Master Deployment contract with a new class of clinical practice, represented by Concierge Medical provider and MDVIP Clinic in Willowbrook IL. Concierge Medicine practices enroll patients as Members and charge an annual fee on top of billing public and private insurance providers. They offer enhanced services to their Members, and Remote Patient Monitoring powered by Cloud DX allows them to attract and retain new patients, driving increased revenues as well as improving patient satisfaction and outcomes. The Company has identified over 5,000 Concierge Medicine providers to target bespoke programs based on lessons learned working with this reference customer.In Canada, notable new contracts announced in the period include:Owen Sound Family Health TeamSouthlake HospitalUniversity of Ottawa Heart InstituteSimcoe County ParamedicsOneida County ParamedicsBrandt County ParamedicsOn June 21, 2023 the Company announced that it had won a competitive Request for Proposal (RPF) to become the sole supplier of Remote Patient Monitoring products and services to Mohawk Medbuy, the largest national shared services organization (SSO) serving hundreds of Canadian hospitals and health care providers. The initial contract runs from July 1, 2023 to June 30, 2026 with option for further extensions to June 30, 2030.Customers expanding and/or renewing their deployment of Cloud DX Connected Health include:Yukon Health and Social ServicesNiagara Family Health TeamSt Mary's Hospital, Kitchener ONGuelph County ParamedicsSimcoe County ParamedicsOwen Sound Family Health TeamWestern Provincial Health DepartmentWindsor-Essex County ParamedicsOwen Sound Family Health TeamUniversity of Ottawa Heart InstituteThe Company has now been awarded 9 contracts for RPM with Community Paramedic Services in Ontario for long term care. In May 2023, the Ontario Ministry of Long Term Care announced $174 million CAD in new funding to sustain the Community Paramedicine for Long-Term Care (CPLTC) Program, allowing seniors to remain safely at home while awaiting placement in long-term care.Subsequent Events:On July 11, 2023, the Company announced A $4.0 Million Private Placement of Secured Convertible Debentures with Opening Orders for $1.72 Million, Amendments to Existing Secured and Unsecured Convertible Debentures and Warrant Repricing.On July 12, 2023, the Company announced that St Mary's General Hospital (SMGH) in Kitchener Ontario is increasing their deployment of Connected Health remote patient monitoring products and services provided by Cloud DX.On July 20, 2023, the Company announced that it received a large expa
PR-Inside.com: 2023-08-29 17:01:03

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VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / August 29, 2023 / Enagic, a renowned leader in the water filtration industry, hosted its highly anticipated annual convention in Las Vegas. Prominent entrepreneurs Darren and Mike took the stage as keynote speakers. The convention was a resounding success, attracting attendees from all corners of the globe eager to learn about how to achieve success with Enagic's business opportunity. Mike and Darren captivated the audience with their expertise and shared invaluable information on how to empower small business owners to thrive with Enagic.During their captivating presentation, Darren and Mike, MLM experts, highlighted the distinctive characteristics of Enagic's products and how they can transform the lives of both customers and distributors. They emphasized the importance of building strong relationships with customers and team members to foster growth and sustainability within the company. Their personal anecdotes and real-world success stories served as examples of the possibilities that Enagic offers, inspiring the attendees."Enagic's products are more than just water machines; they are life-changing devices that provide health, wellness, and financial opportunities for individuals and families alike," Darren remarked. "We are dedicated to helping small business owners discover their potential and build successful ventures with Enagic." Mike echoed Darren's sentiment, emphasizing the significance of teamwork and camaraderie within the Enagic community. "The key to thriving in this industry is to support one another and work together as a team. We are committed to providing ongoing training and guidance for our team members to ensure their success." Darren and Mike, Enagic top sellers, used the convention as a platform to announce their upcoming event in Calgary. In the spirit of fostering teamwork and establishing long-lasting connections, they announced plans to host a small, exclusive convention for their team members. The purpose of this event is to foster team members' personal growth, training, and camaraderie."We believe that a united and motivated team can achieve extraordinary results," Darren said. "Our upcoming convention in Calgary will be an opportunity to strengthen our relationships, share insights, and build an unbreakable support network." The Las Vegas convention and the upcoming Calgary event reflect Darren and Mike's commitment to supporting the Enagic community. As experienced leaders in the multi-level marketing industry, they have been instrumental in transforming the lives of countless entrepreneurs by sharing their knowledge and expertise.About Enagic: Enagic is a pioneer in the water purification and ionization industry, renowned for its innovative Kangen Water systems, including its Kangen Water Machine. With a mission to spread health, happiness, and abundance, Enagic offers a unique business opportunity for individuals seeking financial freedom while making a positive impact on people's lives.contact@ insightinformernews.com SOURCE: The Dream Team
PR-Inside.com: 2023-08-29 02:05:00

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RADNOR, PA / ACCESSWIRE / August 28, 2023 / The law firm of Kessler Topaz Meltzer & Check, LLP ( www.ktmc.com) is currently investigating potential violations of the federal securities laws on behalf of investors of Discover Financial Services (NYSE:DFS) ("Discover Financial").On July 19, 2023, Discover Financial disclosed in a statement that the company had misclassified some of its credit cards. Specifically, Discover Financial revealed that it misclassified certain credit card accounts into its highest pricing tier, starting in 2007, meaning merchants were charged more than they should have been to accept the cards for payment. Discover Financial indicated the company is discussing the matter with regulators and warned it could face future regulatory actions. Discover Financial also disclosed that it received a proposed consent order from the FDIC for a consumer compliance issue which is different than the misclassification matter. Following this news, the company's stock price declined over 14%, to close at $102.83 on July 20, 2023.Then, on August 14, 2023, Discover Financial disclosed that Roger Hochschild was stepping down as President and CEO as well as giving up his position as a member of the company's board of directors. Following this news, Discover Financial's stock price declined over 9%, to close at $92.96 on August 15, 2023.If you are a Discover Financial investor and would like to learn more about our investigation, please CLICK HERE to fill out our online form or contact Kessler Topaz Meltzer & Check, LLP: Jonathan Naji, Esq. (484) 270-1453 or E-mail at info@ ktmc.com . You can also click on the following link or paste it in your browser: https://www.ktmc.com/discover-financial-services-investigation-2023?utm_source=PR&utm_medium=link&utm_campaign=dfs&mktm=r Kessler Topaz Meltzer & Check, LLP prosecutes class actions in state and federal courts throughout the country involving securities fraud, breaches of fiduciary duties and other violations of state and federal law. Kessler Topaz Meltzer & Check, LLP is a driving force behind corporate governance reform, and has recovered billions of dollars on behalf of institutional and individual investors from the United States and around the world. The firm represents investors, consumers and whistleblowers (private citizens who report fraudulent practices against the government and share in the recovery of government dollars). For more information about Kessler Topaz Meltzer & Check, LLP, please visit www.ktmc.com CONTACT:Kessler Topaz Meltzer & Check, LLPJonathan Naji, Esq.280 King of Prussia RoadRadnor, PA 19087(484) 270-1453info@ ktmc.com SOURCE: Kessler Topaz Meltzer & Check, LLP
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Dr. Vinson Eugene Allen Wants to Work With Community Leaders and Law Enforcement to Stop Smash-and-Grab VandalismLOS ANGELES, CA / ACCESSWIRE / August 29, 2023 / Dusk to Dawn Urgent Los Angeles reports smash-and-grab of medical supplies and COVID Test Kits early Monday, Aug. 28, 2023, around 4 a.m. Dusk to Dawn Urgent Care, Paramount location, which serves hundreds of patients, was robbed of thousands of dollars in critical medical supplies that supplied multiple office locations. Dr. Vinson Eugene Allen, founder of the urgent care chain, reported the incident to the Lakewood Sheriff's department, where an investigation is in place. Video surveillance shows two individuals carrying large duffle bags of medical supplies walking away to a possible unseen vehicle. Dr. Allen shared a social media post on Facebook, describing the robbery event that took place at Dusk to Dawn Urgent Care in Paramount California.Dusk to Dawn Urgent Care Los Angeles - ParamountDr. Vinson Eugene Allen standing in front of one of many windows broken during smash-and-grabDusk to Dawn Urgent Care serves over 100,000 Los Angeles and Orange County patients and is known for its 20 years of community outreach. Founders Dr. Vinson Eugene Allen and his wife Dr. Connie Yu Allen were recently celebrated on July 01, 2023, receiving California's First Responders Award for their heroic impact on Southern California during the pandemic of 2020. The power couple spearheads many charity events around the state, with outreach programs supporting many California communities.Dr. Vinson Eugene Allen states, "Smash-and-grab vandalism is beginning to become a norm for many California businesses. In these challenging times, it is imperative for the community, law enforcement agencies, and healthcare providers to come together in addressing this issue. I believe by raising awareness among the public and actively collaborating with local authorities, we can work towards preventing future incidents like this from occurring." Dr. Vinson Eugene Allen and his wife Dr. Connie Yu Allen are planning to meet with city leaders and law enforcement this week concerning the overnight robberies happening in Los Angeles. Dusk to Dawn Urgent Care is currently adding new security measures for all of its locations and promises to have new supplies soon to serve its patients.ContactsWebsite: www.dusktodawnurgentcare.com Website: www.saintvinsoneugeneallen.com Social Media: @DrAllenLaYouTube: Conversations with Dr. AllenYouTube: #AllenFamilyUnityWebsite: www.coronavirustestla.com Media Inquiries: Derrick DzurkoEmail: derrick@ e1mgmedia.com Contact InformationDerrick DzurkoPress Agentderrick@ e1mgmedia.com (888) 231-6942SOURCE: Dusk to Dawn Urgent Care Los Angeles
PR-Inside.com: 2023-08-29 13:47:21

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SAINT PETERSBURG, FL / ACCESSWIRE / August 29, 2023 / Leading water and energy solutions provider, Energy and Water Development Corp (OTCQB:EAWD), is thrilled to reveal its recent engagement with ARC Group to guide its efforts in accessing a larger and more sophisticated pool of investors through an uplisting from OTC to a major exchange. This strategic step crucially demonstrates EAWD's determination in bringing its sustainable solutions to a larger audience, establishing a tangible and lasting presence among sophisticated investors, and optimizing its capital structure.ARC Group, recognized for its vast experiences in capital markets financial advisory, will provide a firm sense of direction and assistance through its depth of service in the execution of EAWD's uplisting endeavor.These services encompass:Developing an uplisting plan, evaluating and structuring the transactionProviding accounting and financial assistance as well as company valuationIdentifying and coordinating with pertinent third parties and service providersAssisting on drafting and reviewing of corporate materials"We believe ARC Group will bring strategic, administrative, and procedural clarity in the uplisting exercise, which is of vital importance to EAWD's business development journey" said Irma Velazquez, CEO of EAWD.In this engagement, ARC Group will provide EAWD with informed advice on the introduction and selection of underwriters and investors. This process will involve specialist communication and negotiation with a range of underwriters, guided by a thorough understanding of EAWD's commercial offering and needs, and brings much needed certainty to the successful completion of the uplisting transaction.To delve deeper into the ventures, innovations, and offerings of Energy and Water Development Corp, interested parties are encouraged to explore the Company's official website https://www.energy-water.com About Energy and Water Development Corp (EAWD)EAWD is a global engineering company that provides sustainable solutions to address the world's water scarcity and energy supply challenges. EAWD builds its systems out of proven technologies, using their technical know-how to customize solutions to their clients' needs. The Company offers design, construction, maintenance and specialty consulting services to private companies, government entities and non-government organizations (NGOs).The company has existing offices in Germany and the United States and has now expanded its presence in Latin America with a new office in Mexico.About ARC GroupEstablished in 2015, ARC Group is a full-service financial institution deeply rooted in Asia with global reach. They are global leaders in M&A and Capital Markets advisory. According to spacinsider.com league tables, ARC ranks 1st as M&A financial advisor by transactional value, market share and by number of transactions in 2022.ARC Group works with companies to help them develop a comprehensive Capital Markets strategy, raise their visibility on the financial arena and position them for long-term success, regardless of whether they choose to pursue a strategic transaction, a round of financing, an IPO or SPAC. They provide a full spectrum of Investment Banking and Advisory services.ARC Group acts as a bridge to connect Asia with Europe and America. With offices in mainland China, Hong Kong, Singapore, Indonesia, Malaysia, India, UAE, Mexico and New York, they are well-positioned to provide on-the-ground cross-border financial advisory services. Read more about ARC Group: https://arc-group.com/ Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward Looking InformationThis press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. The statements contained in this release that are not historical facts are forward-looking statements that represent management's beliefs and assumptions based on currently available information. Forward-looking statements include information concerning our possible or assumed future results of operations, business strategies, competitive position and potential growth opportunities. Our forward-looking statements do not consider the effects of future legislation or regulations. Forward-looking statements include all statements that are not historical facts and can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as the words "believes," "intends," "may," "will," "should," "anticipates," "expects," "could," "plans," "estimates," "projects," "targets," "forecasts" or comparable terminology or by discussions of strategy or trends. You should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks, uncertainties and assumptions. Moreover, we operate in a very competitive and rapidly changing environment. New risks emerge from time to time. It is not possible for our management to predict all risks, nor can we assess the impact of all factors on our business or the extent to which any factor, or combination of factors, may cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward- looking statements we may make. Although we believe that our plans, intentions and expectations reflected in or suggested by the forward-looking statements we make in this release are reasonable, we can give no assurance that these plans, intentions or expectations will be achieved or occur, and actual results could differ materially and adversely from those anticipated or implied by the forward-looking statements.Among the factors that could cause actual future results to differ materially are those associated with general economic and business conditions; the risk that our projects may not perform as expected or produce the anticipated benefits; changes to personnel and employees, changes in the costs and results of operations; changes in government environmental policies and other environmental risks; public health crises, such as pandemics (including coronavirus (COVID-19)) and epidemics, and any related government policies and actions and the effects of such public health crises; risks related to litigation; general domestic and international economic, market and political conditions, including the military conflict between Russia and Ukraine and the global response to such conflict; the potential disruption or interruption of the Company's operations due to accidents, political events, civil unrest, war or terrorist acts, severe weather, cyber threats and data security
The United States has announced a new package of additional military assistance to Ukraine in the amount of $250 million, which includes various ammunition, equipment and spare parts for it, as well as personnel training.

Today we are announcing the next package of military assistance to aid Ukraine as it defends its territory and protects its people. This package contains important capabilities to help Ukraine on the battlefield, according to a statement by U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, published on the website of the U.S. State Department on Tuesday.

According to him, it includes AIM-9M missiles for air defense, munitions for High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems, 155mm and 105mm artillery ammunition, mine-clearing equipment, Javelin and other anti-armor systems and rockets, over 3 million rounds of small arms ammunition, ambulances, demolition munitions for obstacle clearing, as well as spare parts, services, training, and transportation.

This package of weapons and equipment, which are valued at $250 million, is being executed under drawdowns previously directed for Ukraine, the statement reads.

The Secretary of State noted that Russia continues to wage a brutal war of conquest that has killed many of Ukraines civilians and displaced millions of its people. Their attacks on Ukraines ports and grain infrastructure have caused price volatility in food and grain markets and worsened hunger and global food insecurity around the world.

Russia started this war and could end it at any time by withdrawing its forces from Ukraine and stopping its brutal attacks. Until it does, the United States and our allies and partners will stand united with Ukraine, for as long as it takes, Blinken said.
PR-Inside.com: 2023-08-29 07:45:12

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NEW YORK, NY / ACCESSWIRE / August 29, 2023 / Bernstein Liebhard LLP:Do you, or did you, own shares of Hawaiian Electric Industries, Inc. (NYSE:HE)?Did you purchase your shares between February 28, 2019 and August 16, 2023, inclusive?Did you lose money in your investment in Hawaiian Electric Industries, Inc.?Do you want to discuss your rights?Bernstein Liebhard LLP, a nationally acclaimed investor rights law firm, reminds investors of the deadline to file a lead plaintiff motion in a securities class action lawsuit that has been filed on behalf of investors who purchased or acquired the securities of Hawaiian Electric Industries, Inc. ("Hawaiian Electric" or the "Company") (NYSE: HE) between February 28, 2019 and August 16, 2023, inclusive (the "Class Period"). The lawsuit was filed in the United States District Court for the Northern District of California and alleges violations of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 against the Company and certain of its officers (the "Complaint").If you purchased or acquired Hawaiian Electric securities, and/or would like to discuss your legal rights and options please visit Hawaiian Electric Industries, Inc. Shareholder Class Action Lawsuit or contact Peter Allocco at (212) 951-2030 or pallocco@ bernlieb.com If you wish to serve as lead plaintiff, you must move the Court no later than October 23, 2023. A lead plaintiff is a representative party acting on behalf of other class members in directing the litigation. Your ability to share in any recovery doesn't require that you serve as lead plaintiff. If you choose to take no action, you may remain an absent class member.The Complaint alleges that Defendants made materially false and misleading statements throughout the Class Period. Specifically, Defendants failed to disclose that: (i) Hawaiian Electric's wildfire prevention and safety protocols and procedures were inadequate to meet the challenges for which they were ostensibly designed; and (ii) the Company's inadequate safety protocols and procedures placed Maui at a heightened risk of devastating wildfires.In early August 2023, a series of severe wildfires broke out in Hawaii, predominantly on the island of Maui. The most destructive fire began in West Maui near the town of Lahaina on the morning of August 8, 2023. By that afternoon, intense winds had knocked down approximately 30 utility poles throughout Maui, resulting in at least 15 separate outages impacting more than 12,400 customers. Moreover, videos captured by local residents showed that downed power lines belonging to Hawaiian Electric appeared to have ignited at least several of the fires. Ultimately, the wind-driven fires prompted evacuations, caused widespread damage, and have killed at least 114 people, with some 850 others still missing in Lahaina.On August 17, 2023, the Wall Street Journal ("WSJ") reported that Hawaiian Electric had been aware for years of the threat posed by wildfires but did not act. The WSJ stated that between 2019 and 2022 the Company spent less than $245,000 on wildfire-specific projects on Maui and did not seek state approval to raise utility rates to pay for broad wildfire safety improvements until 2022.On this news, Hawaiian Electric's stock price fell $2.54 per share, or 17.43%, to close at $12.03 per share on August 17, 2023.If you purchased or acquired Hawaiian Electric securities, and/or would like to discuss your legal rights and options please visit Hawaiian Electric Industries, Inc. Shareholder Class Action Lawsuit or contact Peter Allocco at (212) 951-2030 or pallocco@ bernlieb.com Since 1993, Bernstein Liebhard LLP has recovered over $3.5 billion for its clients. In addition to representing individual investors, the Firm has been retained by some of the largest public and private pension funds in the country to monitor their assets and pursue litigation on their behalf. As a result of its success litigating hundreds of lawsuits and class actions, the Firm has been named to The National Law Journal's "Plaintiffs' Hot List" thirteen times and listed in The Legal 500 for sixteen consecutive years.ATTORNEY ADVERTISING.  2023 Bernstein Liebhard LLP. The law firm responsible for this advertisement is Bernstein Liebhard LLP, 10 East 40th Street, New York, New York 10016, (212) 779-1414. Prior results do not guarantee or predict a similar outcome with respect to any future matter.Contact Information:Peter AlloccoBernstein Liebhard LLP(212) 951-2030pallocco@ bernlieb.com SOURCE: Bernstein Liebhard LLP
PR-Inside.com: 2023-08-29 04:50:34

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NEW ORLEANS, LA / ACCESSWIRE / August 28, 2023 / Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC ("KSF") and KSF partner, former Attorney General of Louisiana, Charles C. Foti, Jr., remind investors that they have until October 23, 2023 to file lead plaintiff applications in a securities class action lawsuit against Hawaiian Electric Industries, Inc. (NYSE:HE), if they purchased the Company's securities between February 28, 2019 and August 16, 2023, inclusive (the "Class Period"). This action is pending in the United States District Court for the Northern District of California.What You May DoIf you purchased securities of Hawaiian Electric and would like to discuss your legal rights and how this case might affect you and your right to recover for your economic loss, you may, without obligation or cost to you, contact KSF Managing Partner Lewis Kahn toll-free at 1-877-515-1850 or via email ( lewis.kahn@ksfcounsel.com) , or visit https://www.ksfcounsel.com/cases/nyse-he/ to learn more. If you wish to serve as a lead plaintiff in this class action, you must petition the Court by October 23, 2023.About the LawsuitHawaiian Electric and certain of its executives are charged with failing to disclose material information during the Class Period, violating federal securities laws.The alleged false and misleading statements and omissions include, but are not limited to, that: (i) the Company's wildfire prevention and safety protocols and procedures were inadequate to meet the challenges for which they were ostensibly designed; (ii) accordingly, despite knowing the degree of risk that wildfires posed to Maui, the Company's inadequate safety protocols and procedures placed Maui at a heightened risk of devastating wildfires; and (iii) as a result, the Company's public statements were materially false and misleading at all relevant times.The case is Bhangal v. Hawaiian Electric Industries, Inc., et al., No. 23-cv-04332.About Kahn Swick & Foti, LLCKSF, whose partners include former Louisiana Attorney General Charles C. Foti, Jr., is one of the nation's premier boutique securities litigation law firms. KSF serves a variety of clients - including public institutional investors, hedge funds, money managers and retail investors - in seeking recoveries for investment losses emanating from corporate fraud or malfeasance by publicly traded companies. KSF has offices in New York, California, Louisiana and New Jersey.To learn more about KSF, you may visit http://ksfcounsel.com/ Contact:Kahn Swick & Foti, LLCLewis Kahn, Managing Partner1-877-515-18501100 Poydras St., Suite 960New Orleans, LA 70163SOURCE: Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC
PR-Inside.com: 2023-08-30 00:00:37

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NEW YORK, NY / ACCESSWIRE / August 29, 2023 / Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC, a nationally recognized law firm, notifies investors that a class action lawsuit has been filed against Hawaiian Electric Industries, Inc. ("Hawaiian Electric" or the "Company") (NYSE:HE) and certain of its officers.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 Hawaiian Electric securities between February 28, 2019 and August 16, 2023, inclusive (the "Class Period"). Such investors are encouraged to join this case.Case Details:The complaint alleges that throughout the Class Period, Defendants made materially false and misleading statements regarding the Company's business, operations, and prospects. Specifically,Defendants made false and/or misleading statements and/or failed to disclose that:(1) Hawaiian Electric's wildfire prevention and safety protocols and procedures were inadequate to meet the challenges for which they were ostensibly designed; (2) accordingly, despite knowing the degree of risk that wildfires posed to Maui, the Company's inadequate safety protocols and procedures placed Maui at a heightened risk of devastating wildfires; and (3) as a result, the Company's public statements were materially false and misleading at all relevant times.What's Next?A class action lawsuit has already been filed. You may review a copy of the Complaint. You may also contact Peretz Bronstein, Esq. or his Law Clerk and Client Relations Manager, Yael Nathanson of Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC at 332-239-2660. If you suffered a loss in Hawaiian Electric you have until October 23, 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 Nathanson332-239-2660 | info@ bgandg.com SOURCE: Bronstein, Gewirtz and Grossman, LLC
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PALM BEACH, FL / ACCESSWIRE / August 29, 2023 / Hush & Hush, a plastic surgeon-developed beauty and wellness brand, is thrilled to announce its highly anticipated entrance into 450 locations of The Vitamin Shoppe across the U.S. and online. As of August 2023, customers can easily discover Hush & Hush's premium products on vitaminshoppe.com and within The Vitamin Shoppe stores, the leading national destination for lifelong wellness solutions.Hush & Hush now available in The Vitamin Shoppe Since launching in 2019, Hush & Hush has shaped the wellness industry with cutting-edge, science-backed formulations designed to enhance overall health and beauty from within. The brand's commitment to quality, efficacy, and innovative ingredients has earned it a loyal following among consumers seeking solutions for their well-being.The Vitamin Shoppe launch marks a significant milestone for Hush & Hush, as its first-ever wide retail rollout in specialty stores. The brand has made a notable impact in the luxury retail and professional beauty industries and now aims to be accessible wherever discerning shoppers seek quality vitamins and supplements."Beyond just a conventional line of vitamins, Hush & Hush provides problem-solution formulations that have been tested in third-party clinical studies to prove efficacy. With results-driven beauty supplements in high demand, we feel perfectly positioned at The Vitamin Shoppe, a trusted destination for quality and innovation. Plus their knowledgeable teams of Health Enthusiast associates in store are able to provide personalized education and guidance to our target audience of beauty and wellness customers," said Erin Foy, Chief Marketing Officer at Hush & Hush.Hush & Hush will launch in The Vitamin Shoppe's new Beauty from Within concept with four of their best-selling supplement SKUs, including their SkinCapsule Collection and DeeplyRooted hair health supplement, all clinically studied to provide solutions to the most common beauty concerns. The full collection includes:1. SkinCapsule HYDRATE+: A unique blend of powerful antioxidants and hydrating agents that promotes younger-looking, glowing skin from the inside out.2. SkinCapsule CLEAR+: Formulated to promote a clear and radiant complexion, targeting blemishes and soothing redness.3. SkinCapsule BRIGHTEN+: Works harmoniously to diminish the appearance of dark spots and uneven skin tone, resulting in a revitalized and luminous complexion.4. DeeplyRooted: This comprehensive supplement is specifically designed to target the root causes of hair thinning while promoting growth, volume, and overall hair/scalp health.Muriel Gonzalez, President of The Vitamin Shoppe, commented, "We are excited to introduce Hush & Hush as part of The Vitamin Shoppe's Beauty from Within concept, which brings together supplement-focused solutions for beauty goals such as clearer skin, healthier hair, and stronger nails. This one-stop shop gives our customers an easy way to integrate beauty-focused supplement support into their daily routines, with a range of innovative, clinically studied brands and products. Hush & Hush is a standout brand in our assortment, with its advanced, science-backed approach to helping people look and feel their best." For more information about Hush & Hush, including its partnership with The Vitamin Shoppe, please visit https://www.vitaminshoppe.com/b/hush-hush Contact InformationHallie OlsenPublic Relations & Partnershipshallie@ hushandhush.com SOURCE: Hush & Hush
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MIAMI, FL / ACCESSWIRE / August 29, 2023 / Luminar Media Group, Inc. (OTC PINK:LRGR), The makers of Royale de Monte Carlo, "The World's Most Prestigious Vodka," proudly welcomes Juan M. Sese as their new Chief Operating Officer (COO). This strategic appointment underscores the company's dedication to innovation, growth, and unrivaled operations.Mr. Sese's extensive experience encompasses strategic leadership, operational enhancements, and team collaboration. His impressive trajectory in driving business successes across varied sectors, combined with his deep insights into the spirits sphere, promises to position Royale de Monte Carlo vodka on an ascending trajectory.Robert Rico, CEO of Luminar Media Group, Inc., commented, "Juan's exceptional talents and unwavering commitment to operational excellence align seamlessly with our ambitious vision. We anticipate his leadership to be pivotal in unlocking new avenues for Royale de Monte Carlo Vodka and bolstering our stature in the market." Reflecting on his appointment, Mr. Sese said, "It's a privilege to join the esteemed Royale de Monte Carlo team. I am eager to consolidate our strengths and enhance the value we present to our global audience and stakeholders." As COO, Juan Sese will oversee the company's daily operations, refine ongoing processes, and introduce innovative business strategies. Collaborating closely with Royale de Monte Carlo leadership he aims to ensure the brand's pioneering position in the industry.About Juan M. SeseJuan M. Sese kickstarted his distinguished 25-year journey at Morgan Stanley Smith Barney, managing assets for affluent clientele and major institutions across Latin America. He adeptly facilitated Latin American banks in leveraging American investment opportunities.Transitioning to business strategy and Private Equity M&A, Mr. Sese excelled in acquisitions, process enhancements, and fruitful dispositions within the logistics and distribution domain. Moreover, his ventures span land acquisitions and developmental pursuits in South Florida.With a MBA in Business and Finance from the University of Miami, Mr. Sese held prestigious financial licenses, including Series 3, 7, 24, 31, and 65. His business acumen granted him a coveted invitation to the lifetime membership of Beta Kappa Sigma.About Royale de Monte Carlo/ Luminar Media Group, Inc.Royale de Monte Carlo, headquartered in Miami, Florida, is an ultra-premium vodka renowned for its icy coolness and exquisitely smooth taste, offering euphoric pleasure to discerning palates. Crafted and produced by fifth-generation master distillers located in the heart of France's world-famous Cognac region, Royale de Monte Carlo has been honored as the "World's Most Prestigious Vodka".For more information, please visit www.royaledemontecarlo.com Cautionary Language Concerning Forward-Looking Statements:This press release contains forward-looking statements regarding our business, financial condition, and prospects, based on our current assumptions and beliefs. However, the company cannot guarantee that the expectations expressed in these forward-looking statements will be realized. There may be unforeseen risks and circumstances that we are unable to predict. While words such as "believes," "expects," "intends," "plans," "anticipates," "estimates," and similar expressions are used to identify forward-looking statements, there may be forward-looking statements that are not accompanied by such expressions. Investors should exercise caution when relying on these forward-looking statements, as they speak only as of the date of this press release. The company's actual results may differ materially from the anticipated results expressed in these forward-looking statements due to various factors, including risks discussed in the company's periodic reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, available on its website ( www.sec.gov) . All forward-looking statements attributed to the company or individuals acting on its behalf are expressly qualified in their entirety by these factors, except as required under securities laws. The company assumes no obligation to update these forward-looking statements. Investors should refer to the risk factors disclosure outlined in our periodic reports filed from time-to-time with the Securities and Exchange Commission.Investor Relations Contact:Robert Rico305-283-9237SOURCE: Luminar Media Group, Inc.
PR-Inside.com: 2023-08-29 14:00:37

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Indulge in delectable Latin cuisine at La Granja Lakeland's grand opening - a haven of renowned rotisserie chicken, succulent grilled meats, seafood extravaganzas, and pork delicacies.LAKELAND, FL / ACCESSWIRE / August 29, 2023 / La Granja Lakeland's highly anticipated grand opening unfolded on Saturday, marking a new chapter of culinary excellence. Nestled at the crossroads of S. Florida Ave and Terrace Way, just south of 570, their vibrant establishment beckons Lakeland residents to mark their calendars for a truly exceptional dining experience.Elevating its legacy, La Granja Restaurants, an illustrious Latin dining chain, joyfully unveils its latest gem in Lakeland. This strategic locale magnificently caters to the burgeoning desire for authentic, savory Latin American fare in the Lakeland region. Join La Granja for hearty lunches and delectable dinners that are sure to tantalize the taste buds.With a resounding presence of over 50 eateries across Florida, La Granja's influence has flourished. Celebrating the essence of classic Latin cuisine, their menu brims with seafood extravaganzas, succulent steaks, pork delicacies, and the ever-celebrated rotisserie chicken - a culinary masterpiece. From family feasts designed for four or more to sizzling fajitas, delectable sandwiches, and irresistible desserts, their offerings cater to all palates. Customization is key, with a spectrum of sides including white rice, yuca, tostones, black beans, and french fries.La Granja's illustrious journey has cultivated an unwavering following throughout Florida, a testament to their commitment to the best ingredients and cherished traditional recipes that culminate in mouthwatering Latin delights. Their Lakeland venture boasts the finest repertoire of appetizers, entrees, and desserts that promise to captivate aficionados of Latin American cuisine.Highlighted by their iconic rotisserie chicken, tantalizing grilled meats, seafood symphonies, and sumptuous pork creations, their menu is an ode to culinary brilliance. To place an order or obtain directions, call (803) 603-8313.Reviving History: The Evolution of La GranjaIn 1993, La Granja's inaugural restaurant graced Aruba's culinary landscape, subsequently making its way to the United States in 1995. With a legacy spanning over 25 years, La Granja's culinary artistry has unfailingly delighted patrons, renowned for making delectable Latin gastronomy accessible without compromising on quality or affordability. Today, their presence flourishes with over 50 locations spanning from Miami to Orlando.A Palate's Paradise: La Granja's Accolades Over the years, La Granja Restaurant has amassed a plethora of accolades, redefining the art of dining. In 2003, Restaurant Review Magazine hailed us as the "Best Peruvian Restaurant of the Year." Further accolades include "Best Family Style Restaurant" and "Best Peruvian Cuisine of Fort Lauderdale" in 2004 and 2007. Corporate Vision lauded their establishment as the preeminent women-owned Peruvian restaurant in 2016.Lakeland residents are invited to savor their offerings through dining in or takeout.Visit via this Google Maps link: 3919 S. Florida Ave. Lakeland, FL 33813.Operating hours are from 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Monday through Saturday, with Sunday closing at 9:00 p.m. Call (803) 603-8313.Contact InformationJeffrey BrownP.R.jeffb@ topofgoogle.com SOURCE: La Granja Restaurants
PR-Inside.com: 2023-08-29 18:45:36

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NORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / August 29, 2023 / U.S. BankPhoto: Terry and Tiffany Woodley, owners of Woodley Building Maintenance and children of founder Jimmy Woodley, at their office location.Originally published on U.S. Bank company blogWhen Jimmy Woodley started cleaning buildings in 1969, he started out of the trunk of his car. In the more than 50 years since, his business - Woodley Building Maintenance (WBM) in Kansas City, Missouri - has grown into a family legacy that continues with his children, Tiffany and Terry, and his wife, Robery."My dad's first sizeable contract was cleaning an office complex in Lee's Summit after his previous job went on strike," said Tiffany Woodley, the chief financial officer at WBM who joined in the family business at age 27. "He didn't have the financing to do the work in Lee's Summit, so he got a loan from his old boss and the business grew from there." Yet, as the business kept growing, Jimmy's former manager told him he needed something else on his side: a bank. That's where Mercantile Bank, which was eventually acquired by U.S. Bank, came in."The banking relationship is something you talk with other business owners about," said Tiffany Woodley. "I've always enthusiastically shared my experience with U.S. Bank because, even if it is a large bank, there is a small bank personality. When something does happen, I can always reach out to people and that's one of the main reasons I haven't entertained making any kind of change." The oldest accounts at U.S. Bank with the WBM date back to 1977, with the partnership lasting through some of the most challenging times in recent memory. That includes during the COVID-19 pandemic, when the Woodleys worked with U.S. Bank to apply for and receive a loan through the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), which was launched to help business owners keep their employees.WBM is owned and operated by Tiffany Woodley; her brother and WBM's president and chief operating officer, Terry Woodley; and her mother, Robery Woodley. It's a successful business that is steeped in history that all started with Jimmy, Terry Woodley said."The banking relationship is something you talk with other business owners about. I've always enthusiastically shared my experience with U.S. Bank because, even if it is a large bank, there is a small bank personality." - Tiffany Woodley"When Tiffany and I joined the company, it was already a good size to support our parents," said Terry Woodley, who joined the business when he was 30. "Since then, we've been able to grow and also create a joint venture with another building maintenance company that was the brainchild of my father and his good friend, Skip Marsden." While Marsden passed before the launch of that joint venture - which is known today as Tier One Property Services - and Jimmy Woodley passed not long after, Terry and Tiffany have seen it grow from idea to a multi-state, multi-million-dollar commercial janitorial, building maintenance and specialty property services business."It was their trust in one another that led us to where we are today with Tier One," said Terry, who noted that WBM is a majority stakeholder in Tier One Property Services.Looking back over the decades and generations, the relationship between the Woodleys and U.S. Bank runs deep."The entrepreneurial spirit and growth mindset that started with Jimmy lives on in Tiffany and Terry," said Jack Golden, a business banking relationship manager at U.S. Bank. "It's an honor to support them as they continue to grow Woodley Building Maintenance and strategically plan for the future of their business." Today, succession planning is top of mind for the Woodleys and they are working with Golden to outline possible paths forward as they think about the legacy of their company."The third generation are my kids, and my kids have other interests," said Terry Woodley. "One is studying cyber security and the other is working towards becoming a chiropractor, so we want to see what options are out there for the business down the line." When looking back during their 50-year anniversary as Woodley Maintenance Company in 2019, Terry Woodley said, "it is humbling to take a step back and reflect on our history and the journey that led us to where we are today. It is a notable accomplishment for our customers, our team, our partners, and our family." View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from U.S. Bank on 3 blmedia.com Contact Info:Spokesperson: U.S. BankWebsite: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/us-bank Email: info@3 blmedia.com SOURCE: U.S. Bank
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MineHub CEO, Andrea Aranguren, to present live at 9:30 AM PT on Wednesday, September 6, 2023VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / August 29, 2023 / MineHub Technologies Inc. (TSXV:MHUB)(OTCQB:MHUBF) ("MineHub" or the "Company"), a leading provider of digital supply chain solutions for the commodity markets, is pleased to announce that it will be presenting at the Planet MicroCap Showcase: VANCOUVER 2023 investor conference taking place at the Fairmont Waterfront - Vancouver, BC on September 6 and 7. MineHub CEO, Andrea Aranguren, will be providing a live presentation at 9:30 AM PT (12:30 PM ET) on Wednesday, September 6, 2023, where she will discuss the Company's business strategy and answering questions at the conclusion of the presentation.Planet MicroCap Showcase: VANCOUVER 2023Date: Wednesday, September 6, 2023Time: 9:30 AM Pacific Time (12:30 PM Eastern Time)Webcast: https://www.webcaster4.com/Webcast/Page/2986/48807 MineHub will also be conducting in-person 1x1 meetings at the conference venue on Thursday September 7, 2023. To register for 11 investor meetings with MineHub management, and for additional information on the Planet MicroCap Showcase: VANCOUVER 2023 conference, please visit: https://planetmicrocapshowcase.com/ MineHub Technologies Inc."Andrea Aranguren"Chief Executive OfficerAbout MineHub TechnologiesMineHub provides enterprise-grade digital solutions that connect buyers, sellers and financiers within physical commodities supply chains in a digitally integrated workflow powered by data that is useable, shareable, verifiable and unforgeable. Users of MineHub solutions are in full control of their supply chains, enabling them to optimize their use of resources, respond better and faster to disruptions, and provide a better customer service. Global enterprises already use MineHub solutions as part of their logistics, compliance, trade management and financing operations.About Planet MicroCapPlanet MicroCap is a global multimedia financial news, publishing and events company focused on news dissemination, providing information, data and analytics for the MicroCap investing community. We have cultivated an active and engaged audience of folks that are interested in learning about and to stay ahead of the curve in the MicroCap space.For further informationPardeep S. SanghaInvestor Relations, MineHub Technologies Inc.Email: info@ Minehub.com Phone: 604-572-6392Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.News Compliments of AccesswireSOURCE: MineHub Technologies Inc. via Planet MicroCap
PR-Inside.com: 2023-08-29 05:05:22

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NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO UNITED STATES NEWSWIRE SERVICES OR FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATESVANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / August 28, 2023 / Musk Metals Corp. ("Musk Metals" or the "Company") (CSE:MUSK) (OTC PINK:EMSKF) (FSE:1I30) is pleased to announce it has closed the first tranche of its non-brokered private placement for aggregate gross proceeds of $126,000.The Company closed the first tranche of the non-brokered private placement of 1,575,000 units at a price of $0.08 per unit for gross aggregate proceeds of $126,000. Each unit is comprised of one common share of the Company (each, a "Share") and one share purchase warrant (each whole warrant, a "Warrant"), with each warrant entitling the holder to purchase one additional share (each, a "Warrant Share") at a price of $0.12 per warrant share for a period of two years following the closing of the private placement.The Company paid an aggregate of $2,080, issued 26,000 Broker Warrants in connection with the closing of the offering. Each Broker Warrant entitles the holder to purchase one additional Share at a price of $0.12 per Broker Warrant Share for a period of two years following the closing of the offering.All securities issued in connection with the Offering are subject to a statutory hold period expiring four months and one day after closing of the Offering.The aggregate gross proceeds from the sale of the private placement will be used for general working capital.None of the securities sold in connection with the Offering will be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and no such securities may be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an applicable exemption from the registration requirements. This news release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy nor shall there be any sale of the securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful.About Musk Metals Corp.Musk Metals is a publicly traded exploration company focused on the development of highly prospective, discovery-stage mineral properties located in some of Canada's top mining jurisdictions.Make sure to follow the Company on Instagram and Facebook as well as subscribe for Company updates at http://www.muskmetals.ca/ ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD___Nader Vatanchi___CEO & DirectorFor more information on Musk Metals, please contact:Phone: 604-717-6605Corporate e-mail: info@ muskmetals.ca Website: www.muskmetals.ca Corporate Address: 2905 - 700 West Georgia Street, Vancouver, BC, V7Y 1C6FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTSThis news release contains forward-looking statements. All statements, other than statements of historical fact that address activities, events, or developments that the Company believes, expects or anticipates will or may occur in the future are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements in this news release include, but are not limited to, statements regarding the intended use of proceeds of the Offering and other matters regarding the business plans of the Company. The forward-looking statements reflect management's current expectations based on information currently available and are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that may cause outcomes to differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking statements including that the Company may use the proceeds of the Offering for purposes other than those disclosed in this news release; adverse market conditions; and other factors beyond the control of the Company. Although the Company believes that the assumptions inherent in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and, accordingly, undue reliance should not be put on such statements due to their inherent uncertainty. Factors that could cause actual results or events to differ materially from current expectations include general market conditions and other factors beyond the control of the Company. The Company expressly disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable law.The Canadian Securities Exchange (operated by CNSX Markets Inc.) has neither approved nor disapproved of the contents or accuracy of this press release.SOURCE: Musk Metals Corp.
PR-Inside.com: 2023-08-29 15:00:38

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NEW CITY, NY / ACCESSWIRE / August 29, 2023 / Nueva Network, the fastest-growing independently 100% Minority-Owned Spanish Language Audio Network with offices in New York, Atlanta, Boston, DC, Los Angeles, and Mexico City, proudly announces the appointment of Benjamin Finley as its Director of Business Development and Maria Castillo as Audio Network & Digital Sales Planner, effective September 1. Both executives have a successful track record in sales and operations and diverse backgrounds in the audio and technology space, making Nueva Network's strategic move to continue on its path of accelerated growth in 2024 and beyond. Finley will be based in Dallas, TX, and Castillo will be based in New York.Nueva Network Finley's wealth of experience, encompassing brand-direct and agency relationships with decision-makers, uniquely positions him to elevate Nueva Network's business development. Castillo's knowledge of Spanish-language Network Radio will help Nueva drive marketing solutions and monetize multimedia advertising platforms that will play a key role in propelling the company's growth trajectory and goals.Jose M. Villafane, CEO/CRO of Nueva Network, expressed his excitement for the additions to the team: "While the market is down and brands slowdown in spend, we continue to increase sales and our share of Network Radio Revenue. We have been bullish in our investment with programming, sales platforms and media executives and these have given us a tremendous growth and ROI in 2023. We are building a company with people-first in mind." Nueva Network specializes in delivering innovative media and customized content solutions to agencies and brands navigating the ever-changing landscape. The company's comprehensive suite of services covers network radio, customized content production, local activations and cross-platform execution of owned and operated media and affiliates. Nueva Network is committed to achieving client goals and driving results through strategic approaches in the dynamic market.For media inquiries or more information about Benjamin Finley's and Maria Castillo's appointment, please contact:Jose M. Villafane, CEO/CRO Nueva Network: jose@ nuevanetwork.com About Nueva Network:Nueva Network is an audio media company with digital extensions and offices in New York, Atlanta, Boston, DC, Los Angeles, and Mexico City. As a prominent player in the industry, Nueva Network specializes in producing exceptional audio content that resonates with diverse audiences, particularly the vibrant Latino community in the United States. Through its innovative digital sales platforms, including the newly launched NNPlus, Nueva Network connects agencies and brands with the vast potential of the Spanish-language audio landscape.Website: www.nuevanetwork.com Contact InformationJose M. VillafaneCEO / CRO Nueva Networkjose@ nuevanetwork.com SOURCE: Nueva Network
Interfax-Ukraine to host press conference 'Parliamentarians shall go to front along with people'

On Wednesday, August 30, at 12.30, the press center of the Interfax-Ukraine News Agency will host a press conference entitled "Parliamentarians shall go to front along with people" on the presentation of bill On amending some laws of Ukraine on fair mobilization of Ukrainian citizens with the participation of MP and the author of the bill Oleksandr Dubinsky.

The bill stipulates equal conditions for mobilization for all citizens of Ukraine by abolishing exceptions to mobilization for certain categories of citizens. It is proposed to abolish the rule on exemption from mobilization of parliamentarians, other civil servants and officials of government agencies (8/5a Reitarska Street).

The event will be streamed on the YouTube channel of Interfax-Ukraine.

Admission of journalists requires registration by phone: (097) 272 1967.
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NEW ORLEANS, LA / ACCESSWIRE / August 28, 2023 / Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC ("KSF") and KSF partner, former Attorney General of Louisiana, Charles C. Foti, Jr., remind investors that they have until October 24, 2023 to file lead plaintiff applications in a securities class action lawsuit against Origin Materials, Inc. (NYSE:ORGN), if they purchased the Company's securities between February 23, 2023, and August 9, 2023, inclusive (the "Class Period"). This action is pending in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of California.What You May DoIf you purchased securities of Origin Materials and would like to discuss your legal rights and how this case might affect you and your right to recover for your economic loss, you may, without obligation or cost to you, contact KSF Managing Partner Lewis Kahn toll-free at 1-877-515-1850 or via email ( lewis.kahn@ksfcounsel.com) , or visit https://www.ksfcounsel.com/cases/nyse-orgn/ to learn more. If you wish to serve as a lead plaintiff in this class action, you must petition the Court by October 24, 2023.About the LawsuitOrigin Materials and certain of its executives are charged with failing to disclose material information during the Class Period, violating federal securities laws.The alleged false and misleading statements and omissions include, but are not limited to, that: (i) the Company would not be able to meet its previously announced timeline for the construction of its Origin 2 commercial plant; (ii) demand for paraxylene, a product that can replace non-sustainable chemicals in existing supply chains, had dropped such that it would not be the production focus of the Origin 2 plant; and (iii) the Company could not construct the Origin 2 plant at its previously disclosed cost or at the scale it had previously identified.The case is Soto v. Origin Materials, Inc., et al., No. 23-cv-04332.About Kahn Swick & Foti, LLCKSF, whose partners include former Louisiana Attorney General Charles C. Foti, Jr., is one of the nation's premier boutique securities litigation law firms. KSF serves a variety of clients - including public institutional investors, hedge funds, money managers and retail investors - in seeking recoveries for investment losses emanating from corporate fraud or malfeasance by publicly traded companies. KSF has offices in New York, California, Louisiana and New Jersey.To learn more about KSF, you may visit http://ksfcounsel.com/ CONTACT:Kahn Swick & Foti, LLCLewis Kahn, Managing Partner1-877-515-18501100 Poydras St., Suite 960New Orleans, LA 70163SOURCE: Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC
PR-Inside.com: 2023-08-29 14:32:42

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VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / August 29, 2023 / Regulus Resources Inc. ("Regulus" or the "Company", (TSX-V:REG)(OTCQX:RGLSF) is pleased to provide an update on its exploration activities and ongoing community initiatives at the AntaKori copper-gold project in Cajamarca, Peru. With a substantial resource already defined, the Company is reviewing various pathways to unlock value at the AntaKori deposit. Management currently believes the best pathway forward is to integrate the AntaKori deposit with the neighbouring Tantahuatay Mine and sulphide project. As the Company actively pursues these opportunities, work continues on several fronts to set the stage for development of the project in the most efficient and profitable manner for the benefit of all stakeholders.Exploration and Development ActivitiesThe collaborative program with Nuton LLC, a Rio Tinto venture ("Nuton"), to evaluate primary copper sulphide and sulfosalt leaching is progressing well. The NutonTM technologies have the potential to process arsenic-bearing copper sulphides and sulfosalts with less impact on the environment and water resources than traditional concentrator processing (see news release dated December 22, 2022). The Company, working in collaboration with Nuton, has identified that the best pathway to provide near-term samples for Phase 2 column test work is to utilize the existing core the Company has stored in its warehouse. This means the Company can deliver samples to Nuton in the near-term instead of waiting for drilling to be completed. The Company plans to ship core samples to Nuton in Q3-2023 with complete Phase 2 column test results expected in approximately one year. This will result in significant cost savings for the Company as it means there is no requirement in the near-term to complete new drill holes specifically for metallurgical testing.The Company has been working with the nearby community of Tingo over recent months to gain social license to begin exploration activities on the claims where Regulus can earn up to a 60% interest from Gold Fields Ltd. (the "GF Claims") (see news release dated February 16, 2021). As a result of dialogue with the community, the Company has gained access to the GF Claims, certain 100% owned Regulus claims, and claims owned by the Regulus/Buenaventura joint venture where Regulus has a 70% interest (see Figure 1) to complete geological mapping, geochemical sampling, and a ground magnetics geophysical survey (See Figure 2). A total of 190 surface geochemical samples have been collected and sent to the laboratory for full geochemical analysis. The ground magnetics geophysical survey has been completed and negotiations are underway to extend the area of surface access agreements to allow for the completion of an IP/Resistivity survey. This area is located immediately to the east of the Tantahuatay Mine and has several historical, small-scale underground and open-pit operations that mined high-grade copper-gold mineralization between the 1940s and 1970s. Limited exploration has been completed in this region since that time due to restricted access. The Company views investment in this area as strategic for several reasons: (1) it begins the investment requirements towards earning an interest in the GF Claims, (2) it strengthens the Company's relationship with the community of Tingo and (3) the area is prospective from an exploration perspective, given the historical mining activity. The Company anticipates this first stage of exploration activities in this area will define future drill targets, although more surface work may be required. The permitting process has been initiated to allow for drilling as warranted by Q2-2024.Additionally, the Company has been actively completing a geological mapping and surface geochemical sampling program on its northern claims (see Figure 1), where 155 samples have been collected and sent to the laboratory for full geochemical analysis. This program was initiated to better understand the potential to extend mineralization to the north of the main AntaKori resource and the recently completed drilling. This program was completed on the GF Claims, 100% owned Regulus claims and claims owned by the Regulus/Buenaventura joint venture where Regulus has a 70% interest.The Company is also evaluating opportunities to develop an exploration decline into the main AntaKori resource. The purpose of this decline would be to assist with potential future bulk sampling for metallurgical test work, as well as easier and more affordable access for future definition drilling of the existing AntaKori resource.Community InitiativesRegulus has accelerated its long-term involvement in the local community and environmental projects that benefit all stakeholders in the areas surrounding the AntaKori project, as the Company continues to advance and de-risk the project for future development. These programs, which will provide significant opportunities for the people of Cajamarca, include:The installation and technical support of satellite internet antennas, which provide fast and reliable internet access to children and teachers at various educational facilities in areas of Chugur and Hualgayoc that previously lacked connectivity;Initiatives to stimulate agricultural production with landowners in the vicinity of the AntaKori project, including livestock projects, guinea pig breeding, and the optimization of milk production, all with the aim of generating sustainable economic opportunities for the local population. The improvement and conservation of forage and vaccination campaigns in the dairy cattle-raising district of Chugur have been particularly successful - a project that will benefit over 500 families from the 14 villages in the sphere of influence of the AntaKori project, by increasing pasture production by more than 30%, which has downstream benefits of improving the quantity and quality of dairy products made in the region, andThe construction and inauguration of a town square in El Chencho, financed by Regulus in a joint venture with the NGO Prodia.John Black, Chief Executive Officer of Regulus, commented as follows: "One of the pillars of our strategy is to ensure we maintain strong relations with local communities and maintain social license. We have been working with local communities to develop sustainable economic opportunities, not only that provide benefits today, but that can be maintained and potentially grow in the future. Our team has been very busy on the ground completing several exploration programs to help better understand the regional potential outside of the existing AntaKori resource. In particular, the work completed in the Tingo area is exciting because it could be a prospective area that has not had exploration work compl
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BUFFALO, NY / ACCESSWIRE / August 29, 2023 / Global, family-owned food company Rich Products (Rich's) is enhancing its focus on innovation through the hiring of industry veteran Tracey Ziener as new executive vice president, chief research & development (R&D), food safety quality assurance (FSQA) officer. Ziener, who has over 28 years of experience leading business growth and product quality assurance programs for major food brands, joins Rich's as a member of the company's executive team.Ziener specializes in the development and delivery of new products, packaging and technology programs through agile innovation and FSQAR processes, while building highly competent, capable and engaged teams. A seasoned R&D leader, Tracey will head up Rich's global R&D and FSQA functions."Innovation is at the core of who we are as a company. It's what we were founded on 78 years ago," said Richard Ferranti, chief executive officer, Rich Products. "Tracey's strong leadership, technical skills and unique ability to build highly effective global R&D teams, will enhance that focus on innovation, helping us to drive growth and deliver greater value to our customers." Ziener joins Rich's after a long career at Mars, where she most recently served as vice president of research and development, global chocolate business. During her tenure, she developed her expertise across a variety of industries, including Confectionary, Gum, Petcare and Food, leading new product development for popular brands like M&M, Milky Way and Pedigree. With global experience across Europe, the Middle East, Canada and the U.S., she's worked in all areas of R&D, launching many innovations that can be seen on shelves today around the world."Rich's has a long history of pioneering many of the food industry's game-changing products," said Ziener. "I'm excited to join a forward-thinking company that is passionate about innovation and is delivering unique solutions to customers around the world." A U.K. native, Ziener graduated with honors in 1995 with a bachelor's degree in applied chemistry from Heriot-Watt University before earning a PhD in chemistry from Edinburgh Napier University. Ziener is a Chartered Member of the Royal Society of Chemistry, Chartered Chemist, Chartered Scientist and has several publications and six Patents.Ziener is based in Chicago where she currently resides with her husband, Stuart and two children, Alistair and James.For more information on Rich's, visit http://www.richs.com MEET RICH'S.Rich's, also known as Rich Products Corporation, is a family-owned food company dedicated to inspiring possibilities. From cakes and icings to pizza, appetizers and specialty toppings, our products are used in homes, restaurants and bakeries around the world. Beyond great food, our customers also gain insights to help them stay competitive, no matter their size. Our portfolio includes creative solutions geared at helping food industry professionals compete in foodservice, retail, in-store bakery, deli, and prepared foods among others. Working in 100 locations globally, with annual sales exceeding $5 billion, Rich's is a global leader with a focus on everything that family makes possible. Rich's-Infinite Possibilities. One Family.Learn more at Richs.com or join the conversation on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and Twitter.MEDIA CONTACT:Lindsay Ksanznak (Curre)585-402-1916lcurre@ mower.com SOURCE: Rich's
PR-Inside.com: 2023-08-29 16:24:13

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The global robotic nurse assistant market report is a comprehensive report that provides a detailed analysis of the current status and future trends of the robotic nurse assistant market worldwide. This report provides valuable information to industry stakeholders by offering an in-depth perspective on market dynamics, competitive landscape, growth opportunities, and key challenges faced by industry participants.From the perspective of market dynamics, this report explores the factors driving the growth of the robotic nurse assistant market. This includes the increasing demand for robotic nurse assistant products due to changes in consumer preferences, technological advancements, and the demand for more efficient and sustainable solutions. Additionally, government regulations and initiatives to promote the adoption of robotic nurse assistant products also contribute to market growth. On the other hand, this report identifies and analyzes factors that may hinder market growth, such as economic uncertainty, supply chain disruptions, and intense competition in the market.Request for Sample Report:The competitive landscape section of the report provides a comprehensive analysis of the leading companies operating in the robotic nurse assistant market. It introduces the major companies, their business strategy, product portfolio, recent trends, and financial performance. This analysis provides valuable insights for market stakeholders to understand the intensity of competition in the market and gain an insightful view of the strategies adopted by major market players to maintain their position.Some of the major companies in the Robotic Nurse Assistant market are as follows: Fraunhofer IPA, GeckoSystems International Corporation, Georgia Tech, Hitachi, Hstar Technologies, JoiceCare AB, TRI Collaboration Center for Human-Interactive Robot ResearchBy segmenting the market, the report provides a detailed understanding of each segment by analyzing market size, growth potential, and key trends within each segment. Through this detailed analysis, industry participants can identify profitable opportunities, develop strategies tailored to specific customer segments, and allocate resources effectively.Market Segmentation:Type: Disabled Population, Geriatric Population, Bariatric Population, OthersApplication: Hospitals, Home Care Setting, Research Institutes, OthersIdentifying growth opportunities is crucial for companies operating in the robotic nurse assistant market. This report focuses on highlighting these opportunities by analyzing emerging technologies, market trends, and changing customer needs that have the potential to shape the future of the market. By identifying untapped market segments, geographies with high growth potential, and innovative product development strategies, this report supports stakeholders in harnessing these opportunities and leading business growth.In addition, this report addresses the key challenges faced by industry participants. It provides insightful information on challenges such as intense market competition, price pressure, regulatory compliance, and technological confusion. By understanding these challenges, companies can develop effective mitigation strategies and adapt to a constantly changing market environment. This enables them to ensure sustainable growth.The regional analysis section of the global robotic nurse assistant market report thoroughly evaluates the market in various regions, including North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, the Middle East, and Africa. This section provides valuable information on market size, growth potential, and key market trends specific to each region.Market by Regions:North AmericaU.S.CanadaEuropeGermanyU.K.FranceItalySpainRest of EuropeAsia PacificChinaIndiaJapanRest of Asia PacificMiddle East & AfricaGCCSouth AfricaRest of Middle East & AfricaLatin AmericaBrazilMexicoRest of Latin AmericaThis report provides a comprehensive assessment of the robotic nurse assistant market in these specific regions, enabling stakeholders to understand regional differences, market potential, and growth prospects. This provides valuable insights that help make informed decisions related to market entry, expansion strategies, and resource allocation. Additionally, understanding the regulatory landscape and market dynamics in each region is useful for companies to comply with regulatory requirements and adjust their business strategies to fit specific markets.Overall, the global robotic nurse assistant market report strives to provide comprehensive and practical information to industry stakeholders. By offering a deep understanding of market trends, competitive dynamics, growth opportunities, and potential risks, this report plays a valuable role as a tool for manufacturers, suppliers, distributors, and investors. Through this information, they are able to make informed business decisions and execute successful strategies in the dynamic and evolving robotic nurse assistant market.
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NEW ORLEANS, LA / ACCESSWIRE / August 28, 2023 / Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC ("KSF") and KSF partner, former Attorney General of Louisiana, Charles C. Foti, Jr., remind investors that they have until October 2, 2023 to file lead plaintiff applications in a securities class action lawsuit against RTX Corporation f/k/a Raytheon Technologies Corporation (NYSE:RTX), if they purchased the Company's securities between February 8, 2021 and July 25, 2023, inclusive (the "Class Period"). This action is pending in the United States District Court for the District of Connecticut.What You May DoIf you purchased securities of RTX and would like to discuss your legal rights and how this case might affect you and your right to recover for your economic loss, you may, without obligation or cost to you, contact KSF Managing Partner Lewis Kahn toll-free at 1-877-515-1850 or via email ( lewis.kahn@ksfcounsel.com) , or visit https://www.ksfcounsel.com/cases/nyse-rtx/ to learn more. If you wish to serve as a lead plaintiff in this class action, you must petition the Court by October 2, 2023.About the LawsuitRTX and certain of its executives are charged with failing to disclose material information during the Class Period, violating federal securities laws.The alleged false and misleading statements and omissions include, but are not limited to, that: (i) the Company's Geared Turbofan (GTF) engine that powers hundreds of aircraft across many airlines had been affected by a quality control issue from at least 2015-2020; (ii) the quality control issue would require the Company to recall and reinspect many of its GTF airplanes, affecting customers and harming its business; and (iii) as a result, RTX's statements about its business, operations, and prospects, were materially false and misleading and/or lacked a reasonable basis at all relevant times.The case is Peneycad v. RTX Corporation f/k/a Raytheon Technologies Corporation, et al., No. 23-cv-01035.About Kahn Swick & Foti, LLCKSF, whose partners include former Louisiana Attorney General Charles C. Foti, Jr., is one of the nation's premier boutique securities litigation law firms. KSF serves a variety of clients - including public institutional investors, hedge funds, money managers and retail investors - in seeking recoveries for investment losses emanating from corporate fraud or malfeasance by publicly traded companies. KSF has offices in New York, California, Louisiana and New Jersey.To learn more about KSF, you may visit http://ksfcounsel.com/ CONTACT:Kahn Swick & Foti, LLCLewis Kahn, Managing Partner1-877-515-18501100 Poydras St., Suite 960New Orleans, LA 70163SOURCE: Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC
The Vice President, Kashim Shettima, has charged members of the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy Tax Reforms to develop a robust roadmap that will transform the economy of the country.

The vice president gave the charge today when he received in audience members of the Committee led by the Chairman, Taiwo Oyedele, at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

According to Mr Shettima, The task before you is enormous; I believe you have the best brains to come up with a robust roadmap that will reposition our economy addressing some of the fundamental issues underlying our fiscal and tax policies; Fiscal and tax policies are key to the realisation of any nations economic development.

I believe you will come up with a roadmap to salvage our nation. We are in a big mess, but I have confidence in your team. This is a great nation chained by poor governance, chained by many challenges, and my principal is a man of courage and conviction; he is a progressive man in the Nigerian political space.

Speaking on the importance of fiscal policy and tax reforms, the vice president noted that it is a potent tool for resource mobilisation, and as such, he charged the committee to make recommendations that are quick deliverables in view of the nations current economic realities.

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While assuring them of the National Economic Councils cooperation, he said, our focus should largely dwell on domestic resource mobilisation, especially with trends in the world today; even the biggest economies in the world are faced with this reality.

The vice president opined that fiscal policy and tax reforms are critical for meeting national aspirations, and this is also taking global dimensions with global realignment of forces with the emergence of BRICS and current geopolitics.

Mr Shettima praised the composition of the committee, stating, I think the composition of this committee bears testimony to the seriousness that the president attaches to your mandate. Honestly, I am proud of you. I am personally conversant with some of the members of this committee who are men and women of impeccable character, high integrity, committed and patriotic.

In his remarks, the Special Adviser to the President on Revenue, Zaccheus Adedeji, stated that the Presidential Committee would be interested in working with the National Economic Council (NEC), which is chaired by the vice president, to ensure effective collaboration with the sub-national governments who are critical stakeholder group in the task before the committee.

Earlier, Mr Oyedele disclosed that members of the committee were excited for this opportunity to help our country to redefine, redesign a new fiscal policy framework that is fit for our nation to thrive and deliver the Nigeria we want for our people to flourish in their endeavours.

We are laser-focused on our mandate as directed by Mr. President, which covers fiscal governance, revenue transformation and, fiscal competitiveness and economic growth facilitation.

He assured that the committee would engage with Nigerians both at home and abroad as well as with all segments of the society.

Also, he expressed the readiness of the committee to engage with sub-national governments through NEC in achieving the mandate of the committee.

In the delegation of the Presidential Committee were Kyari A. Bukar, Tayo Aduloju, Ismaila Zakari, Abiola Sanni, Chinyere Almona, Abubakar Suleiman, Bamate Ogara-Lawson, Taminu Yakubu and Muhammad Nami

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The Nigerian government on Tuesday unveiled an overhauling strategy for Nigerias steel sector revival.

The Head, Press and Public Relations of the Ministry of Mines and Steel Development, Alaba Balogun, made this known on Tuesday.

Mr Balogun said the federal government through the newly created Ministry of Steel Development has taken significant steps towards rejuvenating the nations steel sector by announcing a comprehensive insurance coverage for all ongoing steel projects within the country.

According to the statement, the Minister of Steel Development, Shuaibu Audu, made the declaration during a crucial meeting with key agencies under the ministry namely, the Ajaokuta Steel Company Limited, National Iron-Ore Mining Company, National Steel Raw Materials Exploration Agency, Metallurgical Training Institute and National Metallurgical Development Center, Jos.

The statement said that during the interface with the heads of the agencies, Mr Audu explained that the deliberate policy of the present administration to introduce insurance coverage for steel projects is a critical step to mitigate the risks and uncertainties inherent in large-scale developmental endeavours.

The minister said by providing this insurance coverage, the government aims to foster an environment that is conducive to attracting investments into the steel sector, securing financing and expediting the successful completion of various steel-related initiatives across the country.

Mr Audu noted that to ensure a structured and successful implementation of this policy, the ministry would outline a comprehensive two-year activation plan, noting that the strategic plan is designed to catalyze the revival of all steel-associated interventions, which underscored a steadfast commitment to achieving tangible progress within a stipulated time frame.

ALSO READ: Nigerian govt promises to revive Ajaokuta steel

The journey towards revitalizing the steel sector is beyond insurance coverage. The government has devised a comprehensive overhauling strategy to tackle the multi-faceted challenges impeding the sectors growth. Central to this strategy is the optimization of skilled labour and enhancing security measures to ensure a safe and productive working atmosphere, Mr Balogun quoted the minister as saying.

The minister listed other solution ideas to include the rehabilitation of the rail infrastructure connecting the Itakpe and Ajaokuta Steel Complexes, a functioning rail network for the transportation of raw materials and finished products.

This, Mr Audu noted, has the potential to significantly boost the operational efficiency of these complexes, thereby positively influencing the entire street value chain.

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The federal government has announced that it would pay N825.8 million as compensation to Jiwa Community of Abuja to pave the way for constructing the second runway at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja, Nigerias capital city.

In a statement issued by Anthony Ogunleye, director of Press at the Office of the FCT Minister, on Tuesday, the government said that work would soon commence on constructing the second runway at the airport after signing the compensation agreement with the host community in Abuja.

In the agreement signed between the Federal Capital Territory Administration, the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development and the Jiwa community in the FCT, on Tuesday, August 29, 2023, a sum of Eight Hundred and Twenty-Five Million, Eight Hundred and Nineteen Thousand, Nine Hundred and Eleven Naira Forty-Three Kobo (N825, 819,911.43) would be paid to the community as compensation to pave way for the commencement of work on the project, the statement said.

The statement did not give further details on the specific timeline of the projects commencement and completion.

The FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, assured that the money for compensation has been made available and will get to all affected in the next few days, the statement said.

As we leave here, the Federal Capital Territory, through the FCDA, will release the money approved for compensation and resettlement of those who are there. The total value of what we are paying is N825, 819,911.43 (Eight hundred and twenty-five million, eight hundred and nineteen thousand naira, Nine Hundred and Eleven Naira Forty-Three Kobo) for the compensation and resettlement, Mr Wike said.

The contract

According to the statement, the contract for the construction of the second runway of the Abuja Airport was awarded in March 2022 by the Ministry of Aviation and AeroSpace Development, but work could not commence due to disagreements over issues of resettlement and compensation.

However, following the signing of the agreement between the FCTA and the Jiwa community, Mr Wike said contractors will now move to the site to commence work on the project after the payment of the agreed sum to the community.

The minister said President Bola Tinubu has mandated the Ministry of Aviation to kick-start and complete the second runway project, which is very vital for the international airport in the FCT.

According to the statement, Mr Wike also disclosed that as part of incentives to the community, the FCT Administration will give immediate employment to 10 indigenes of the Jiwa community, while another 12 will come from the Ministry of Aviation and the aviation Agencies.

He stated further that the FCT Administration will include the rehabilitation of the Tunga Madaki bridge in the Jiwa community in the 2024 budget, in addition to the provision of a modern healthcare facility.

We are going to construct the Tunga Madaki bridge, which will be put in the 2024 budget. Secondly, we are going to provide the community with a modern healthcare facility that is better than what is there now, the Minister said.

We believe by the grace of God if that is done today and then tomorrow or next tomorrow, the money is paid to them, the contractors will no longer delay. They have to move to the site immediately and commence work. The second runway has come to stay.

On his part, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, said work should have started on the second runway project, but contractors could not be mobilised to the site due to the contending issues.

Mr Keyamo urged the community to cooperate with the government to ensure the realisation of the project, adding that they also stand to benefit from the development in the area in addition to other corporate social responsibility to the community.

In his reaction, the Sarkin Jiwa, Idris Musa, assured of the cooperation and support of the Jiwa community towards the actualisation of the project, which, he said, is in the overriding interest of the public.

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The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) on Tuesday said it has identified its retail station and the individuals involved in the under-dispensing of fuel to customers in Port-Harcourt, Rivers State.

The oil firm said this in a statement posted via its official X platform on Tuesday.

The NNPCL made this known in reaction to a recent video circulating on social media showing NNPC Retail Ltd service agents under-dispensing fuel to customers in Port-Harcourt.

In its reaction on Tuesday, the NNPCL said it had identified the station and the individuals involved and has taken appropriate disciplinary action against the staff.

Dear valued customers, our attention has been drawn to a recent video circulating on social media depicting NNPC Retail Ltd. service agents apparently under-dispensing fuel to customers.

While taking these actions very seriously, we would like to inform the general public that we have identified both the station and the individuals involved and have taken appropriate disciplinary action against the staff, the NNPCL said.

It said measures have already been put in place to prevent future recurrence of such incidents across our retail network.

The company explained that in the spirit of open and transparent communication with its customers towards effective service improvement, it encourages customers always to report any areas needing improvement at its over 900 stations through its social media channels and customer care lines.

We regret this unfortunate incident and will continue to uphold the high standards and quality of service that are hallmarks of the NNPC Ltd brand, it said.

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Nollywood stars Rachael Okonkwo and Chigozie Atuanya have been unveiled as Luter ambassadors at a glamourous ceremony in Lagos.

Both actors, famous for starring in Nkoli Nwa Nsukka (2014) and King Jaja of Opobo (1998), will represent Luter, an anti-malaria drug by Phamatex Nigeria Limited.

Justifying the choice of the actors, the Managing Director, Joseph Ebowusim, noted that the ambassadors were carefully selected because their personalities align with the companys vision.

Mr Ebowusim emphasised the quality and standard the brand represents and that it was only appropriate to choose ambassadors with such criteria of which the selected actors fall.

He said, This collaboration with the new ambassadors has come when our company as a brand is making great leaps and in-roads in the Nigerian pharmaceutical industry.

He added that they are saddled with increasing brand awareness and sales for the company they represent.

Rachael and Chigozies responses

During the contract signing ceremony held in Amuwo Odofin, Lagos, Rachael, who hails from Enugu, expressed her gratitude for the ambassadorial role.

The 34-year-old actress noted that picking an ambassador for a brand is one thing and another to know who to choose to be the face.

Nkoli Nwa Nsukka, as she is fondly called, appreciated the honour of being selected based on her values and personality in recognition of what Luter stands for.

She said, I am blessed and honoured to be in your midst today. Picking a brand ambassador is not a joke. I am also thrilled to know that my core values and moral standards align with that of the brand, making it easier for me to be selected to represent the brand,

Similarly, her colleague, Chigozie, from Abia State, buttressed her comments as he welcomed the opportunity to represent Luter.

Understanding what the role demands and what is expected of them as ambassadors, the 42-year-old actor promised to effectively use their positions to drive the results the brand seeks.

I am someone who believes in action, and I must say that Im ready to take up this mantle. I will do what is right to make sure that we deliver.

Well pass the message wherever they want us to take it. Thank you very much. He said.

Background

Rachael began her acting career as a child, but due to a lack of movie roles, she was more seen as a dancer in popular gospel videos.

In 2007, she made her foray into Nollywood in minor roles. However, her breakthrough was in 2014, when she played the lead character in Nkoli Nwa Nsukka as Nkoli.

On the other hand, Chigozie made his screen debut in a 1998 film titled King Jaja of Opobo and has since gone on to produce and star in several Nollywood films.

He is mainly known for Chetanna (2015), Save the Princess (2022), and Brothers Keeper (2014).

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BAKU, Azerbaijan, August 29. Armenian illegal armed formations in the territory of Azerbaijan, where the Russian peacekeeping continent is temporarily deployed, subjected Azerbaijani Army positions in the direction of Fuzuli district to small arms fire on August 28 at 23:50 (GMT+4), Trend reports referring to the Azerbaijani Defense Ministry.

"Azerbaijani Army units took retaliatory measures in the specified direction," the ministry said.
On the face of it, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa was the big winner of the 15th BRICS Summit in Johannesburg last week. He evidently persuaded Russian President Vladimir Putin not to attend in person and attracted about 60 African and global south leaders to the BRICS Outreach segment.

Above all, Ramaphosa presided over a summit where the five BRICS leaders agreed to invite six new members to join the bloc: Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Iran, Ethiopia, Egypt and Argentina.

Until the last moment, it seemed BRICS leaders might only agree on the criteria and procedures for accepting additional countries, and perhaps adopt new members only as BRICS partners. But they accepted six full members and extended partnership status to 16 others who formally applied.

But if the expansion was a success for Mr Ramaphosa, it was arguably an even greater success for Chinese President Xi Jinping, who campaigned energetically for enlarging the alliance. Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India was apparently reluctant because he suspected this would increase Xis global power. Brazilian President Lula da Silva reportedly harboured similar fears. Perhaps they were right.

It is not clear what persuaded them to change their minds. But the upshot was an expanded BRICS that now accounts for 36 per cent of global gross domestic product (GDP) in purchasing power parity (PPP) terms and 46 per cent of the worlds population, da Silva says.

Some BRICS officials boast that the GDP of the expanded BRICS ($60 trillion) now exceeds that of the G7 ($49 trillion) in PPP terms. (Though in nominal terms the G7 is still ahead with S$43 trillion versus $29 trillion.)

That is an important statistic as BRICS is effectively the informal caucus of the global south in the G20, institutionally but also more generally. While the G7 is the caucus of the north. With the addition of Saudi Arabia and Argentina, BRICS also now has seven members in the G20.

The surge of interest in joining BRICS is about developing and emerging countries challenging global north dominance, particularly in the International Monetary Fund, World Bank and World Trade Organization. BRICS members want to displace the dominance of the US dollar in international trade and finance and, in a world polarised by Russias invasion of Ukraine, they are looking for security in numbers.

For many, BRICS is becoming the new Non-Aligned Movement  or perhaps the G77 Plus China, but more active, muscular and effective. But why would BRICS be more effective, and is it non-aligned? The answer to both questions may be that this is mainly Chinas project. Xi was the eminence at the summit. South Africa granted him a state visit the night before and bestowed on him the Order of South Africa.

And China seemed to get pretty much all it wanted from the summit. Notably the expansion of membership and the inclusion of the Middle East oil powers, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, who previously tilted more to the West.

It is also clear that BRICS three democracies  South Africa, India and Brazil  already overshadowed by China economically, will lose more ground in the expanded BRICS. Of the new members, only Argentina can be considered democratic. The blocs average Freedom House score for political rights and civil liberties has now dropped from 48.4 per cent to 36.7 per cent.

So BRICS is now firmly established as a club of autocracies. Remember IBSA (India-Brazil-South Africa)? That was the alliance of the three BRICS democracies, formed in 2004, five years before BRICS. IBSA was rendered obsolete by its member countries absorption into BRICS, and even more so with BRICS Plus. Officials say it still exists on paper and will meet on the margins of the United Nations (UN) General Assembly next month. But no one will notice.

And China offers its fellow BRICS members little in return. One of the key issues for Mr Ramaphosa in his bilateral with Mr Xi was to narrow South Africas large and unbalanced trade deficit with China. South Africa exports mainly commodities and imports mainly manufactured goods. Ramaphosa got some vague promises that China would import more South African value-added goods, and a concrete agreement to import South African avocados.

More importantly, Mr Xi is unwilling to concede power to his democratic BRICS partners. Ironically the UN Security Councils three Western permanent members, the United States, France and Britain, have publicly stated that they support Africa and other unrepresented regions getting permanent seats on an expanded Security Council. Brazil, India and South Africa to an extent, have been campaigning for such seats for decades.

But the BRICS Johannesburg II Declaration demonstrated that once again China at least, if not Russia, isnt prepared to put its money where its mouth is. Each summit declaration contains a paragraph calling for comprehensive UN reform, including the Security Council, to make it more representative of developing countries and supporting the aspirations of Brazil, India and South Africa to play a greater role in the UN.

The Johannesburg II Declaration just repeated previous declarations on this issue  with one small addition. It said BRICS supported Brazil, India and South Africas aspirations to play a greater role in international affairs, in particular in the United Nations, including its Security Council.

There was still no explicit commitment by China and Russia  who hold permanent Security Council positions  to support permanent seats for their fellow BRICS members. But an official nonetheless welcomed that slight change. He said it was a significant shift that was difficult to get accepted.

But shouldnt China and Russia logically back permanent seats for their BRICS partners? BRICS is, after all, supposed to be about giving greater voice and power to the global south.

In a recent Foreign Policy article, Oliver Stuenkel, Associate Professor of international relations at the Getulio Vargas Foundation in Sao Paulo, wrote that it would be simplistic to interpret the BRICS expansion as a sign of strength. Rather, expansion should be read as a sign of Chinas growing capacity to determine the blocs overall strategy  and may reflect the emergence not of a multipolar order, but of a bipolar one.

A stronger BRICS could help the global south gain more influence over decisions that matter. But its members  not least the democracies  should be unceasingly vigilant that the bloc serves their wider interests, and not those of new aspirant hegemons.

Peter Fabricius, Consultant, Institute for Security Studies (ISS) Pretoria

(This article was first published by ISS Today, a Premium Times syndication partner. We have their permission to republish).

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On a Thursday morning in July, the cries of infants rent the air at Ugbogbo Primary Health Centre in Akoko Edo Local Government Area of Edo State. As needles pierced their skins to deliver a dose of a vaccine, children yelled uncontrollably as their mothers struggled to appease them with breast milk.

It was an immunisation day at the facility. As women poured in with their children for vaccination, they also had the chance to be educated on health issues relating to their newborns as well as their personal and environmental hygiene.

The health educators told PREMIUM TIMES that attitude change is key to dealing with outbreaks of diseases. Lassa Fever is one of the infectious diseases plaguing the area, so their message on healthy living is also aimed at checking the spread of the fever in the state.

Ondo and Edo are the two leading Lassa Fever endemic states in Nigeria, accounting for almost half of the total cases in the country. While the state governments through their departments of epidemiology are spreading awareness on how to curb it, primary health centres provide the quickest channel to reach local communities with the messages.

As the virus is largely spread by multimammate rats (Mastomys species) which live in bushy and dirty environments, residents are charged to imbibe the culture of cleanliness through messages delivered in local languages.

Gloomy statistics

According to the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), Nigeria had recorded 1,009 confirmed cases of Lassa fever as of Week 29, ending on 23 July. A total of 171 deaths had also been recorded within the same period (1 January to 23 July) from 111 local government areas in 28 states of the federation.

Meanwhile, the figures at the end of Week 29 of 2023 are slightly higher than those recorded in 2022, with 169 deaths recorded as of the period last year.

Nigeria experienced a surge in confirmed cases in April this year, regarded as the peak period. It reached a high of 4,702 suspected cases, five probable cases, and 877 confirmed cases between epidemiological weeks one and 16 of 2023, which ended on 23 April. A total of 154 deaths (case fatality rate, CFR, 17.2 per cent) were also recorded within the period. This also beat the 2022 record of Week 16, which had a fatality of 140 (CFR 18.6 per cent).

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There is also a 16 per cent increase in confirmed cases (897) in comparison with the 751 reported during the corresponding period in 2022.

In Ondo State, the disease is prevalent in Owo, Akure South, Akure North, Ose, Akoko South-West, Akoko South-East, and Idanre LGAs.

Edo and Ondo states have a combined fatality figure of 73, out of 171 recorded nationwide so far, amounting to about 43 per cent. Ondo recorded the highest fatality rate of 37 (22 per cent), with a total confirmed cases of 338.

The figures show a slight increase in the fatalities this year despite an enlightenment campaign and funding aimed at curbing the spread of the virus.

Campaigns in Ondo

Findings from the various PHCs visited in the two states showed a remarkable improvement in the level of enlightenment of both health workers and residents of the communities.

Bolanle Faboyede is the Officer-in-Charge of the Ugele PHC in Akure North LGA of Ondo State.

Speaking on the sensitisation strategies at the PHC, she said; When pregnant women come to the clinic, we give them health talks on the signs and symptoms of Lassa Fever and how to prevent their foods from being contaminated.

And at the infant welfare clinic, we also inform them on how to keep their foods from being poisoned by rats, by covering them and cleaning their environment.

Rahmat Mohammed is a Community Health Practitioner, who heads the PHC at Ilekun in Akure South LGA of Ondo State. She said pregnant women are targeted because they are vulnerable to diseases due to their condition.

At Oda town in Akure South LGA, also in Ondo State, the PHC officials and health educators meet with community leaders regularly to inform them of developments in the fight against Lassa Fever, in addition to giving health talks to patients and mothers.

Resistance to change

Meanwhile, as health education officers and health workers at the PHCs across the state intensify efforts to encourage people to be hygienic, PREMIUM TIMES findings show that some residents are frustrating the campaigners efforts.

Some of the areas identified for poor practices of spreading uncovered food by the roadsides and dirty spots are Ogbesse in Akure North LGA, Ipele and Jot Motors in Owo LGA, and Emiloro in Akure South LGA.

While communities near local council headquarters are strictly supervised by health officers, rural communities farther away are usually poor in environmental health and sanitation. Places such as Igoba, Ugele, and Ogbese in Akure North are some of the worst culprits.

At cassava mills, people still sun-dry their garri and pupuru  a local staple in the state, a practice discouraged by the authorities.

A resident of Ugele identified simply as Madam Ajoke told this reporter that she saw no need to worry about Lassa Fever because only God can take care of people.

We just have to be prayerful because all these talks about rats and Lassa Fever, it is only God that can protect us. The noise about Lassa Fever is unnecessary, she said in Yoruba.

Heavy workload, poor manpower

A PHC, according to the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), should have a minimum of 24 workers comprising four nurses or midwives, six community health extension workers, a lab technician or assistant, a record officer, an administrator, and a medical doctor, among others.

But officials say a PHC may not have a medical doctor to itself, as one medical doctor can handle a catchment area of PHCs.

The nature of staffing will also depend on its categorisation, whether it is a health clinic, a health post or a PHC.

However, Arakale PHC in Akure which serves as the coordinating centre for other PHCs in Akure South LGA, has medical doctors and consultants as well as nurses and community health workers.

That is however not the case in rural centres such as Ilekun, Oda, Esure, in Akure South; Ogbese, Ugele and Igoba in Akure North LGA where nurses or community health extension workers head the facilities.

Though the heads of the facilities who spoke with our reporter did not complain, this reporter observed an obvious shortage of manpower in the area of health education. There were lamentations that the work needed to be done by the health educators was too much for the available personnel.

The PHCs also do not have the required capacity to handle Lassa Fever cases.

Officials said they have only been trained on how to identify symptoms of the disease and to quickly alert the disease surveillance officer, who collects samples and takes them to a designated laboratory.

When the test is concluded and if positive, the patient is referred to the treatment centre at the Federal Medical Centre, Owo.

State of PHCs in Ondo

As of 2020, Ondo State had 604 PHCs but not all of them were operational. Most of those in the LGAs visited by the reporter have structures but are experiencing one challenge or the other. The major challenge is funding.

Meanwhile, the state budgeted N1.9 billion for primary healthcare in 2022, out of which about N70 million was budgeted for the renovation of primary healthcare facilities. It also earmarked N3 million for health education and mobilisation.

In 2023, the state earmarked about N1.88 billion for primary health care, with a paltry N5 million allocated for the renovation of PHC facilities. However, the state budgeted N45 million for the expansion of the Primary Health Care Board office which is located in Akure, the state capital.

The government however voted N10 million for the renovation and furnishing of 18 model laboratories across the 18 LGAs.

Ondo govt speaks

The Permanent Secretary of the Ondo State Primary Health Care Board, Francis Akanbiemu, said the PHCs have been equipped with the knowledge and motivation to enlighten communities on Lassa Fever and other endemic diseases.

He said cases of Lassa Fever are being reported to state epidemiologists as soon as they are suspected by PHC workers.

He, however, noted that on Lassa Fever, the duty of the health workers stops at alerting the state epidemiologists, and actions are taken to track and isolate such cases.

We do not handle anything on Lassa Fever. What we do is to report any suspected case to the state epidemiologist who immediately takes it over from there, he said. We however work closely with the epidemiologist in terms of sharing information.

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In the past couple of weeks, a committee of the House of Representatives charged with investigating job racketeering in government parastatals has been engaging in extortion of money from heads of federal ministries, departments and agencies, including those of tertiary institutions across the country, a PREMIUM TIMES investigation has found.

The committee, known for loudly posturing as an anti-corruption body, has ironically been intimidating heads of agencies into paying huge bribes to avoid being disgraced in public and indicted in a report to be issued after the ongoing hearings to which almost all the heads of the nations federal institutions have been summoned to appear.

The corrupt ad hoc committee of 39 lawmakers was constituted following a motion on 5 July by Oluwole Oke, a Peoples Democratic Party member representing the Obokun/Oriade federal constituency of Osun State, who urged the lower legislative chamber to investigate the monumental graft surrounding personnel recruitment in government parastatals.

The process of employment into the civil service has become one that is fraught with endemic corruption, Mr Oke told his colleagues as he read a prepared motion listed on the Order Paper of the day.

Public institutions have since stopped the process of advertising for jobs and vacancies. Even in the few instances where adverts are published, the slots are already commodified and available for the highest bidders. Most institutions now sell employment notwithstanding the qualification of the applicant and the ability of the applicant to perform optimally on the job, he added.

Mr Oke then requested the House to set up an ad hoc committee to investigate all MDAs and tertiary institutions. The Deputy Speaker, Ben Kalu, who presided over plenary on that date, agreed. He then went ahead to constitute an ad hoc committee with 37 membersone lawmaker per state and the Federal Capital Territory.

Deputy Speaker Ben Kalu did not announce a chairperson for the Committee. It was Speaker Tajudeen Abbas who, the following day, appointed Yusuf Gagdi (APC, Plateau) to lead the panel. Mr Gagdi, one of the contenders who stepped down for Mr Abbas during the June speakership tussle, was not on the original list announced by the deputy speaker.

Mr Oke was also not on the list announced by Mr Kalu. Neither was he mentioned by the speaker as a member of the committee. It remains unclear how he became a very active member of the panel.

Setting the tone for extortion

Many Nigerians, especially those feeling shortchanged by the routine recruitment misconducts in several federal agencies, praised the formation of the committee and had high expectations that the panel would produce shocking revelations and restore sanity to the recruitment processes in the federal service.

The highly anticipated inquiry began on 25 July with a classic case involving the Federal Character Commission (FCC), an agency established to ensure every state of the federation is equitably represented in the federal public service, but which soon became notorious for aiding and abetting job racketeering.

The dramatic and nauseating FCC case gave the Committee widespread publicity and heightened public interest in the proceedings. Mr Oke was very active and was highly critical of Muheeba Dankaka, the chairperson of the FCC, who sent representatives to the committee with a letter saying she was too ill to personally attend the hearing on the opening day. But shortly before the letter was read, Mr Oke and another lawmaker from Nasarawa, Jonathan Gaza, walked into Hearing Room 034, the venue of the proceeding.

Not long after the lawmakers arrival, Mrs Dankakas letter was read by Mr Gagdi, who almost agreed with the request to fix another date for her to reappear. Proving tough, Mr Oke disagreed sharply with his colleagues and insisted that Mrs Dankaka should provide a medical report that she was sick.

He described the FCC chairman as having credibility issues, a charge echoed by Moses Anaugbe, a federal commissioner in FCC from Delta State, who accused Mrs Dankaka of lying about her health. Members of the panel talked tough, vowing to deal with erring agencies and threatening to arrest any invited agency head who failed to appear before the committee.

The revelations from the committee dominated news headlines hours later and for the days that followed. The popularity of the committee soared, with many Nigerians considering its members as saviours who came to sanitise the job hiring procedures in the countrys public service.

A corrupt committee and a shake-down scheme

Our investigation, spanning weeks, has now shown that the initial drama and tough stance of the so-called anti-corruption committee were orchestrated to gain credibility and intimidate agency heads before launching a well-designed scheme to extort money from them through fronts disguised as consultants.

While a few agencies with uncompromising leadership were being scapegoated and harassed during the daily hearing as TV cameras rolled, some committee members were detailed to, behind closed doors, negotiate illicit payments by heads of institutions considered culpable of recruitment irregularities, our findings show.

In exchange for the money paid, those agency heads were to be exempted from scrutiny and public humiliation. They would also be exempted from indictment in the committees report. Those who failed to pay were to be subjected to public humiliation and disgrace during sham public hearings flooded by journalists, cameras and microphones.

For instance, on Tuesday, August 15, some committee members met with heads of the nations federally-owned universities  51 vice-chancellors  and afterwards secretly negotiated two million naira bribe from each of them to save themselves from public humiliation and eventual indictment.

During the negotiation with the leadership of the Committee of Vice Chancellors, representatives of the committee demanded three million naira from each institution. The professors protested, saying their institutions were poorly funded and that it would be difficult to raise the bribe money.

The committee members then shifted ground, reducing the bribe payment to two million naira each but warning of dire consequences for anyone who failed to pay. The vice-chancellors were then given Account Number 5400495458, domiciled in Providus Bank, to pay into. The lawmakers even instructed the vice-chancellors to clearly indicate the name of the institution in the payment invoice.

The committee members also held separate meetings with rectors of the 35 federally-owned polytechnics and provosts of the 27 federally-owned colleges of education. Three million naira bribe was then demanded from each of them.

When contacted, the chairperson of the Committee of Vice Chancellors of Nigerian Universities (CVCNU), Lillian Salami, said she was at a meeting and would call our reporter back. The University of Benin vice chancellor has yet to do so as of the time of publishing this report. Subsequent calls to her did not connect as her mobile telephone appeared to be switched off. She also did not reply to a text message sent to her on the matter.

Sagir Abbas, the alternate chairperson of the group and vice-chancellor of Bayero University Kano, did not answer or return calls. He also did not reply to a text message sent to him.

Enter the committees bagmen

The officials were given a deadline of Thursday, 24 August, to pay or be ready to incur the wrath of the entire House of Representatives, not only in the job racketeering case but in other matters as well.

We were able to determine that several agency heads, panicked by the threats of the lawmakers, have since paid the bribes.

From the tertiary institutions alone, over N267 million is estimated to have been collected by the panel in illicit payments. And with the scope of the committee now expanded to cover the federal governments almost 1,500 MDAs and corporations, the committee may be on its way to extorting billions from the nations federal institutions.

Our investigation found that one of the bank accounts into which the bribe payments are being made belongs to a certain Ama Business Solutions, a company fronting for the committee as a consultant. The company, with registration number 3156889, was incorporated on 12 August 2020 to engage in the business of general contract and merchandising. Company documents gave the firms principal place of business as Plot 2249, Zone 4 Plaza, Constantine Street, Wuse Zone 4, Abuja.

AMA Business Solution has two directors  Abubakar Lawal Sambo (44) and Abdulrahman Lawal Sambo (48). Both men, who appear to be brothers, claim to be businessmen, according to their corporate filings.

But the older of the brothers, Abdulrahman Sambo, was also profiled as having served as a senior legislative aide to former Speaker Femi Gbajabiamila between 2019 and 2023.

His profile also claims he served in the 2019 APC presidential campaign council and sits on the Board of Chrysalis Youth Foundation, of which Olawale Edun, the minister of finance and coordinating minister of the economy, is chairperson.

Before publication, the Sambos could not be reached to comment on our findings. Their company has no online presence, and our reporters could not find them or their business when they visited the address listed on the companys corporate fillings. They also have yet to respond to an email sent to them.

This medium also contacted Wasiu Olanrewaju-Smart, the former chief of staff to ex-Speaker Femi Gbajabiamila, to confirm if Mr Sambo indeed served as a senior legislative aide to the former speaker, but his phone number did not connect. A text message sent has yet to be replied to. Mr Olanrewaju-Smart is also a top aide to the current Speaker, Mr Abbas.

Abdulrahman later contacted this newspaper after this report was published to say he was not part of the formation of the company and had never participated in its operations. He said his brother commenced the registration of the company and included him as a director without his knowledge. He said on becoming aware of the development, he compelled his brother to submit documentation to the Corporate Affairs Commission withdrawing his name. He said at that point, the incorporation procedure for the company had advanced, leaving the CAC to reflect his removal as director on the same day the company was registered.

I know nothing about this transaction, he said. I am not part of the company. Kindly leave me out of this matter. 

PREMIUM TIMES investigation continues to uncover other fronts being used by the ad hoc committee to collect kickbacks.

Mr Oke and a history of controversies

Mr Oke was first elected to the House of Representatives in 2003. Since then, he has retained his seat, missing only the 2011-2015 session. In the years he has been a federal lawmaker, Mr Oke has, at different times, served as chairperson of the House committees on defence, procurement and public accounts.

In the 8th Assembly, Mr Oke was accused of interfering in running a committee other than his own. Johnson Agbonayinma, the Chairman of the Committee on Pension, was forced to recuse himself from investigating the Pension Commission (PenCom) after Mr Oke accused him of being conflicted.

Mr Agbonayinmas daughter was in February 2019 sacked by PenCom for allegedly presenting a fake certificate. The lawmaker later stepped down following pressure from PenCom and Mr Oke.

In an interview at the time, Mr Agbonayinma said Mr Oke brought the management of PenCom to his office to persuade him to compromise the probe, but when he refused, the Osun lawmaker began discrediting him using the misdeed of his child.

 Without fear or favour, I must say that I am very disappointed in one of our colleagues, Wole Oke, who is now working in the interest of PenCom, Mr Agbonayinma said at the time. He brought this same acting DG to my office. I told them, Madam, I am not witch-hunting you. Submit what we are requesting. But to go public, just to portray me in a bad light, to discredit my person, that is very sad. PenCom must try to tell us what happened to the N33 billion of pensioners money. Nigerians must know what happened to their money. They deserve to know.

Abdulmummin Jibrin, a member of the 8th House, had, during the budget-padding scandal of 2016, also accused Mr Oke of using investigative hearings to shake down MDAs.

Hon. Oke is in the habit of frequently inviting MDAs to extort money in the name of investigation or oversight where he has no mandate. Many committee chairmen in the House are at loggerhead with Hon Oke because of his fraudulent activities as Chairman of Public Procurement, Mr Jibrin tweeted in response to Mr Okes call for his probe over alleged budget padding scheme.

A stinking House and Investigative hearings of extortion

Most Nigerians are often suspicious of Nigerian lawmakers conducting investigative panels due to a long history of using such committees for extortion.

A classic example is the fuel subsidy investigative panel in the 7th Assembly led by Farouk Lawan, who is currently serving jail term following his conviction for corruption.

Mr Lawan, a self-proclaimed Mr Integrity lived a double life as chairperson of his committee during the probe. In front of cameras and microphones, he spat fire and thumped his chest as he vowed to clean up the extremely dirty Nigerias oil and gas sector. But behind closed doors, he was stuffing huge kickbacks, in dollars, into his cap and flowing gown.

It took a sting operation by security agents to unveil the facade put up by the lawmaker, who received a $500,000 bribe from billionaire Femi Otedola.

In 2012, a House Committee chaired by Herman Hembe from Benue State was also accused by the then CEO of the Security and Exchange Commission, Arunma Oteh, of demanding millions during the probe of the Nigerian capital market.

Ms Oteh, during the hearing in 2012, publicly questioned the integrity of Mr Hembe to continue the investigation after allegedly demanding N39 million and N5 million on separate occasions. She also said the lawmaker was sponsored by SEC to attend an investment summit in the Dominican Republic but that he did not attend. He failed to return the estacode paid to him by the commission, Ms Oteh said.

Now I questioned, Hon. Chairman, your credibility in carrying out this public hearing. The reason is that on October 20, the SEC gave you an estacode and a business class ticket to travel to an emerging market conference in the Dominican Republic. Please tell the Nigerian people if you actually went there, and this was in November. Please tell Nigerian people, if you did not go, whether you returned the money.

In asking the SEC to contribute N39 million to this public hearing, do you think it has undermined your capacity to conduct this public hearing? I dont think I should be subjected to what you subjected me to because the SEC did not give you N5 million in cash on Tuesday, the 13 of March. It should not be, she said.

Mr Hembe, in his response, did not deny the allegations. He only called on anti-graft agencies to investigate the allegation.

In the last Assembly, the probe by the House Committee on NDDC into the activities of the Niger Delta Development Commission turned into a game of accusations and counter-accusations.

Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, the then Chairman of the Committee, recused himself after the management of the commission accused him of being a beneficiary of some contracts being probed.

Mr Olubunmi-Ojo, who is now the Minister of Interior, denied wrongdoing and recused himself from the hearing after the NDDC management staged a walkout. The probe was later derailed after the then Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Godswill Akpabio, alleged that several lawmakers were also beneficiaries of the contracts in NDDC. The exchange led to the infamous off your mic moment in the committee.

Some Nigerians believe that a number of investigative hearings by the two chambers of the National Assembly are often instituted to extort agencies of governments and private businesses. Some of the so-called investigative committees, at times, end up not submitting any report.

Lawmakers often push for the creation of ad hoc committees despite the existence of standing committees. In the current Assembly, which only took off in June, there are no fewer than 15 ad hoc committees investigating different issues, and most of them are summoning different agencies, sometimes unduly disrupting operations in these organisations and extorting money from their leaderships.

One such committee, known as the Ad Hoc Committee to Probe TETFUND (Tertiary Education Trust Fund), also being led by Mr Oke, has been travelling around federally-owned tertiary institutions in the country, shaking down their leaderships.

PREMIUM TIMES received evidence that some of the committee members extorted five million naira from a vice-chancellor in the South-West after initially demanding a N15 million bribe.

Lawmakers respond to extortion allegation

When confronted with our findings, the chairperson of the committee, Mr Gagdi, denied demanding or receiving money from heads of agencies, including heads of tertiary institutions and vowed to resist any attempt to discredit his committee.

He confirmed that there were indeed meetings with heads of tertiary education institutions but that the parley was held in the open and that no money was demanded or received from the lecturers during the session.

Mr Gagdi said the meeting was presided over by Mr Oke.

How can a member of a committee ask you for money, and you will not report to the committee Chairman? he asked. I am the one presiding over the committee. If someone had asked you for money, you should report to the chairman.

When contacted, Mr Oke said he was abroad and that enquiries on the matter should be directed to Mr Gagdi.

He, however, added, I dont agree with this insinuation (allegation of extortion put to him by our reporter). No responsible member of parliament will ask an agency under probe for employment racketeering (for bribe) and yet be exposing them.

When told that he and his colleagues have been found to use fronts to collect thbribes from agencies, he said, No sane person will make such frivolous allegations against me. I have been out of the country for the past two weeks. We are talking about a serious matter affecting our children, brothers and sisters, yours inclusive, and some people are trying to divert attention from the main issues with cheap blackmail.

But Messrs Gagdi and Oke are not telling the truth. Our investigation was able to determine that the lawmakers ad hoc committee negotiated for bribes with some of the agencies that appeared before their committee.

House vows investigation

When contacted, the spokesperson of the House of Representatives, Akin Rotimi (APC, Ekiti), said the House would investigate the allegation and demanded details of PREMIUM TIMES investigation.

Mr Rotimi said, But the least that you can do for me is the phone number that sent the account number and the account number. What you are doingboth of usis in the interest of the Nigerian people, you guys in the media and for those of us in the House.

To aid our own investigationI am going to take it up with the leadership of the House and the Chairman of the Committee.

As I said, members of that committee are very reputable. They are from professional backgrounds, and their integrity is not in doubt anyway. You should substantiate and provide those details for the House to investigate. This House is not going to tolerate any malfeasance.

Multiple calls to the Speaker of the House, Mr Abbas, did not connect. He has yet to reply to a text message sent to his mobile telephone.

EDITORS NOTE: This story has been updated with the comment from Abdulrahman Lawal Sambo, who contacted us days after publication to say he was not part of Ama Business Solution and has never played any role in its operations.

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The police in Delta State, Nigerias South-south, on Tuesday, paraded scores of young men and women suspected to be gay and lesbians arrested at a same-sex marriage ceremony in the state.

PREMIUM TIMES earlier quoted the police as saying that over 100 gay suspects were arrested during the ceremony.

But the police spokesperson in the state, Bright Edafe, while briefing reporters in Asaba, put the number of those arrested at 67.

Mr Edafe, a deputy superintendent of police, said police operatives had intercepted a cross-dresser who confessed that he was a member of a gay club and was on his way to attend a gay marriage ceremony.

He led the operatives to the venue of the ceremony at Teebolus Hotel, off Refinery Road, Ekpan in Warri.

The marriage ceremony, according to the police, was for a gay couple  Daniel Pius (groom) and 22-year-old Maxwel Ohwonohwo (bride).

As the operatives arrived at the hotel, the gay members immediately took to flight, scampering in different directions. The policemen chased and arrested 67 suspects, both male and female, Mr Edafe said.

He said a suspect, 23-year-old Abel Daniel, admitted that, under the influence of alcohol, he had sex through his anus with a male suspect who is at large.

The police recovered tramadol, other hard drugs, and gay marriage ceremonial dresses at the scene, Mr Edafe said.

The suspects and exhibits are in custody and efforts are intensified to ensure the arrest of the fleeing members for possible prosecution.

The Commissioner of Police, Wale Abass, states unequivocally that Delta State is no place for any sort of same-sex relationship; that marriage is valid only when it is contracted between a man and a woman.

He further warns that explicit or implicit public show of amorous relationships between people of the same sex is prohibited in the state and that deviants would be brought to book in accordance with Same-Sex Marriage (Prohibition) Act, 2013.

Illegal in Nigeria

Homosexual relationships are illegal in Nigeria.

Nigerias anti-gay law, enacted in January 2014 by the President Goodluck Jonathan administration, stipulates a 14-year prison term for anyone convicted of having sex with members of the same sex.

The Nigerian government put the law to the test for the first time in December 2019 when 47 men arrested by the police in a hotel in Lagos the previous year were arraignedin court, accused of publicly displaying affection for members of the same sex.

All 47 men pleaded not guilty and were granted bail by the court. A federal judge later struck out the charges against the men because of a lack of diligent prosecution by the police.

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The House of Representatives says it will investigate its ad hoc committee investigating job racketeering in ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs) following an investigation by PREMIUM TIMES, which exposed the panel for running an extortion ring.

An investigation spanning weeks detailed the abuse of the legislative institution by the lawmakers, which involves intimidation and extortion of money from heads of MDAs.

The report provided bank details and names behind the business entity used by the lawmakers to demand money from the tertiary institutions in exchange for exemption from scrutiny and public humiliation.

In the wake of the outrage that the report has generated among Nigerians, the spokesperson of the House, Akin Rotimi (APC, Ekiti), in a statement on Tuesday, said the leadership of the House has resolved to investigate the matter.

Mr Rotimis statement failed to provide specific details of how the House intends to investigate the matter; instead, it asked: the members of the public, and any of the affected government entities with evidence related to the allegations, to approach the House for necessary action.

In the same breath, Mr Rotimi defended the committee by inferring it is a victim of unwarranted attacks due to the exercise they are conducting.

The public is invited to take cognisance of the fact that following the very serious revelations that have emerged from the work of the referenced committee, which have been well publicised and televised, it would not be strange for them to face unwarranted attacks on their integrity, individually and collectively, as a means of distracting them.

We wish to reiterate that Members of the House of Representatives will not be distracted from carrying their mandate as enshrined in Section 89 of the 1999, which gives the National Assembly powers to expose corruption for the good governance of Nigeria, he said.

Committee denies corruption tag, summons VCs

While reacting to the PREMIUM TIMES report, the Chairman of the Committee, Yusuf Gagdi (APC, Plateau), denied involvement in the extortion ring, stating that he never demanded money from any agency.

In a speech at the resumption of hearing on Tuesday, Mr Gagdi said the committee would not be deterred by any statement and promised to conclude the investigation with a detailed report submitted to the House.

Nigerians have hope in this committee. From the way we are conducting the business of this committee, everybody is seeing what we are doing. We will not compromise by hiding irregularities going on in public service. No amount of statements accusing this committee will deter us. You may have your problem with a member of this committee, but dont blackmail the entire committee, he said.

Before adjourning the sitting of the Committee, Mr Gagdi ruled that heads of tertiary institutions would appear before the House on Friday.

He said the committee had planned to meet with the universities next week; however, because of the media report, they will meet with all the vice-chancellors on Friday.

He directed the clerk of the committee to write a letter to the vice-chancellors through the National Universities Commission (NUC).

In view of the subsisting development, I think the clerk should summon the vice-chancellors to appear through the National Universities Commission on Friday. We have to sit on Friday. Let the letter reach the commission today. I want to personally sign the letter. So that some of these things could be done, as it is in the character of this committee, for us to ask questions on what the journalists are interested to hear, he said.

The committee subsequently adjourned till Wednesday.

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Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the outlawed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), has said he would not beg the Nigerian government to release him from the facility of the State Security Service (SSS) in Abuja.

His lawyer, Ifeanyi Ejiofor in a statement, said Mr Kanu disclosed this on Monday when the IPOB leaders legal team visited him at the SSS facility.

Background

Mr Kanu was first arrested in 2015 under the administration of former President, Muhammadu Buhari.

The IPOB leader was later granted bail in April 2017. He fled the country after an invasion of his home in Afara-Ukwu, near Umuahia, Abia State, by the Nigerian military in September of that year.

He was re-arrested in Kenya and brought back to Nigeria in June 2021, about four years after he fled the country.

The Court of Appeal, Abuja, on 13 October 2022, held that the IPOB leader was extra-ordinarily renditioned to Nigeria and that the action was a flagrant violation of the countrys extradition treaty and also a breach of his fundamental human rights.

The court, therefore, struck out the terrorism charges filed against Mr Kanu by the Nigerian government and ordered his release from the SSS facility.

But the government refused to release the IPOB leader, insisting that he (Kanu) could be unavailable in subsequent court proceedings if released and that his release would cause insecurity in the South-east, where he comes from.

The government, through the office of the then Attorney-General of the Federation, later appealed the court ruling and subsequently obtained an order staying the execution of the court judgement at the Supreme Court.

Mr Kanu, on 3 November 2022, through one of his lawyers, Mike Ozekhome, filed an appeal against the stay of execution order at the Supreme Court.

But the court is yet to resume hearing on the appeal following repeated adjournments.

Begging an insult

The first Republic Aviation Minister, Mbazulike Amaechi, in November 2021, led a delegation of prominent Igbo leaders to the then Nigerias President, Mr Buhari, and requested him to release Mr Kanu.

But Mr Buhari declined the request.

Mr Amechi would later die in 2022, at the age of 91.

Speaking during the visit by his legal team on Monday, Mr Kanu said he would not beg the Nigerian government to release him at this time because that would be an insult to the memory of Mr Amaechi who led the delegation to appeal for his release.

The IPOB leader said Mr Amechi, despite his old age and ill-health repeatedly travelled from South-east to Abuja, begging the government to honour his dying wish, but was treated with disdain by the government.

Thus, Onyendu Mazi Nnamdi Kanu is of the firm view that he does not need to beg the Federal Government of Nigeria to release him. The Court of Appeal has already made a pronouncement in that regard and that pronouncement has remained sacrosanct till date, Mr Ejiofor said in the statement.

The lawyer called on every person of goodwill to prevail on the Supreme Court to set a date for an expeditious hearing of the appeal filed by the government against the court order that freed Mr Kanu.

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The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, Nyesom Wike, says the FCT Administration has concluded plans to reintroduce monthly sanitation as part of strategies to keep the city clean.

Mr Wike stated this in Abuja on Monday after a closed-door meeting with contractors handling different projects in the FCT.

He said that he had already briefed President Bola Tinubu on the idea that at least two Saturdays in a month would be declared for sanitation from 7 a.m. to 10 a.m.

He explained that the move would enable companies supporting the FCT with logistics to go to market and other public places to evacuate refuse.

According to him, for Abuja to be clean, everybody has to cooperate.

We must all make sacrifices. There is nothing like we are going to suffer. You also contribute to refuse.

So, if you spare three hours on a Saturday at home to clear the refuse and bring them out for us to evacuate and dispose, then that is the little way you can help.

We are appealing to you (residents) to cooperate with us so we can achieve our goals.

On streetlights, the minister said that there were some improvements.

We are not there yet, but I can assure you that everywhere in Abuja will be lit up, he said.

For those who have distorted the Abuja Master Plan, Mr Wike said that the issue would soon be addressed.

He added that the Federal Capital Territory Administration was working out which areas the parks and the greens were supposed to be and those that were built on.

He also said that the government would look into those who refused to develop their plots for many years.

Mr Wike said that the President Tinubu-led administration would not continue to allow undeveloped land across the city where criminals were taking refuge.

How can you have empty land in the city and allow people to build shanties on them because you did not develop them?

Some properties were built for 20 years but not completed. Go and see what is happening there. Criminals have taken over the place, and as a serious government, we will not allow that.

We want to make Abuja a safe environment, but we cant do it alone; we require the support of every stakeholder, the minister said.

He also said that attention would be given to satellite towns beginning with a visit to the areas to determine the needs and decide on what can be done to improve their facilities and infrastructure.

He pointed out that there was no funding to intervene in all the satellite towns at the same time but one at a time, subject to the availability of funds.

READ ALSO: Wike to get all contractors back to site under his direct supervision

It is unfortunate that contracts were awarded in virtually all the satellite towns, but where is the funding? The finding is not there, Mr Wike said.

He said that what was approved for FCT in the 2022 national budget was N15 billion for not less than a trillion naira worth of contracts, stressing the need for the ministry to prioritise its spending.

(NAN)

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The National Sovereign Investment Authority (NSIA) has held a two-day summit to drive collaborations amongst partners and improve overall patient outcomes in cancer care in the country.

A statement by the spokesperson of the Authority, Joyce Onyegbula, said the summit was held on 25 and 26 August in Lagos.

Read the full statement below:

NSIA Collaborates with Stakeholders to Improve Oncology Outcomes in Nigeria

Lagos, Nigeria  August 27, 2023: The NSIA convened critical oncology stakeholders and strategic partners at the maiden edition of the NSIA Oncology Summit in Lagos to drive collaborations amongst partners and improve overall patient outcomes in cancer care.

Participants at the Summit included over 200 medical professionals in oncology, over 11 Nigerian tertiary hospitals as well as over 10 external collaborators, including from the University of Chicago, American Oncology Institute India, American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO); Bio Ventures for Global Health (BVGH); Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Centre; American Association of Physicists in Medicine (AAPM) and the University of Pittsburgh Medical Centre (UPMC).

At the Summit, medical professionals split into focus groups across various speciality areas to discuss barriers to oncology care in Nigeria, possible solutions to address the same and retention plans for homegrown talent.

Healthcare has been an investment sector of focus for the Authority. The NSIA set up the NSIA Healthcare Development Investment Company (NHDIC) to address medical infrastructure gaps, develop strategic collaborations to improve patient care and enhance the talent pool of medical professionals.

In 2019, NSIA established the NSIA  LUTH Cancer Centre (NLCC)  a world-class out-patient oncology centre which has since attended to over 10,000 unique cancer patients. The Authority also invested in two diagnostic projects co-located within the Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital and Federal Medical Centre, Umuahia.

NSIA is now in the process of scaling these interventions, with 3 additional Oncology centres, 23 additional diagnostic centres and 7 catheterization laboratories across the six geopolitical zones of Nigeria in the works. NSIAs wholly-owned medical services portfolio company, Medserve has been set up to implement these projects.

Furthermore, given the prevalence of dated medical equipment, poor operation and maintenance of same, the NSIA has set up another wholly-owned subsidiary called Equilease Systems Limited to offer alternative financial solutions to care providers, to ease the burden of high acquisition and maintenance costs of modern medical equipment through strategic partnerships with Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs).

Medserve and Equilease will jointly allow the NSIA to be the largest provider of medical infrastructure in Nigeria.

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The Commissioner of Police in Enugu State, Kanayo Uzuegbu, has embarked on a confidence-building patrol while urging residents to go about their lawful businesses unhindered and without fear on Mondays.

Mr Uzuegbu, on Monday, patrolled and interacted with residents and traders in Nkanu West Local Government Area, especially traders within Orie Market in the Akpugo community and Eke Market in the Agbani community.

He encouraged traders to always go about their lawful businesses on Mondays like every other business day, assuring them of the provision of adequate security for them and their businesses.

It would be recalled that the police commissioner had earlier patrolled the 9th Mile and some parts of the Ezeagu Local Government Area on 21 August, including the Oyofo-Oghe community and the Awha-Imezi community that clashed recently over a land dispute.

Fidelis Ogarabe, the deputy commissioner of police in charge of the State Criminal Investigation Department, and Onyeamu Akaeme, the assistant commissioner of police in the Department of Operations, accompanied the police commissioner.

Others in his entourage included Princewill Ijeoma, an assistant commissioner of police, who is the commanding officer of 3 Police Mobile Force Squadron, Enugu, and other senior police officers.

Social and commercial activities are slowly picking up on Mondays in Enugu State as the state government, security agencies, and residents put up a strong resistance against the weekly sit-at-home enforced by a breakaway faction of the Indigenous Peoples of Biafra (IPOB), a group which is leading the agitation for an independent state of Biafra which it wants carved out of South-east and some part of South-south Nigeria.

The IPOB leader, Nnamdi Kanu, recently ordered his lieutenant, Simon Ekpa, to bring an end to the sit-at-home in the South-east.

Mr Ekpa, who lives in Finland, leads the breakaway faction of IPOB. He has been dishing out orders, instructing residents in South-east Nigeria to stay indoors on Mondays as a protest against the continued detention of Mr Kanu by the Nigerian government.

(NAN)

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Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State will on 1 September unveil N1.6 trillion ($2.1 billion) pipeline of 30 projects at the first Enugu State Investment and Economic Growth Stakeholder Roundtable.

The governor is also scheduled to launch the Enugu State Integrated Sector-Based Productivity Growth Strategy.

Chidiebere Onyia, the secretary of the Enugu State Government, disclosed this in a statement in Enugu on Monday.

He said the Enugu State Integrated Sector-Based Productivity Growth Strategy, which was a precursor to the launch of the maiden multi-stakeholder and fully transactional Diaspora and Investment Forum scheduled for the second quarter of 2024, would be held in Enugu.

This, Mr Onyia said, would draw investors from across various industries locally and internationally.

The $2.1 billion project pipeline spans several industries, including transportation and healthcare infrastructure, as well as energy, power, and agro-allied industrialisation.

Senior executives from the World Bank Group, the African Development Bank Group, the International Finance Corporation, the African Export-Import Bank and the United Kingdom Department for Trade and Business are expected at the summit.

Others are Africa Finance Corporation, the Nigerian Sovereign Wealth Fund, commercial banks, Corporate pension Funds, Private Equity Funds, Infrastructure Funds, and other domestic financial institutions.

According to Mr Onyia, the infrastructural project includes net-zero aligned projects that can unlock Enugu States and South-east economic potential.

The Roundtable discussion will cover a range of topics, including addressing barriers to investment and economic growth in Enugu State, improving investor confidence in the State, and understanding investors risk and return preferences.

It will be used in identifying partnership opportunities for project preparation and coinvestments, he stated.

Mr Onyia, a professor, explained that the Enugu State Integrated Sector-Based Productivity Growth Strategy was in line with Governor Mbahs determination to grow the Enugu State economy from $4.4 billion to $30 billion.

Implementation of the States Integrated Sector-Based Productivity Growth Strategy will ensure that those sectors with the greatest potential for growth are supported through measures to reduce unnecessary regulation and boost innovation and growth.

The new administration recognises private investment as a key driver of long-term economic growth and prosperity.

The roundtable discussion will lay the groundwork for long-term partnerships and cooperation that can catalyse Enugus accelerated economic growth. Mr Onyia said.

He hinted that when it is released, the plan is expected to incentivise and encourage private sector investors, as well as others, to participate in the financing and delivery of critical infrastructure investment projects.

(NAN)

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BAKU, Azerbaijan, August 29. Azerbaijan Red Crescent Society sends humanitarian aid to people of Armenian origin living in Karabakh, President of the Azerbaijan Red Crescent Society Novruz Aslan told reporters, Trend reports.

"Our humanitarian cargo will be sent today. We will head along the Aghdam-Khankendi road. Initially, 40 tons of flour products will be sent. This step will be positively received by the residents of Armenian origin living in Khankendi and the international community," he emphasized.

The Aghdam-Khankendi road connecting the mountainous part of Karabakh with the lowland part is open for cargo transportation. Azerbaijan offered to use the Aghdam-Khankendi road for delivery of goods to Armenian residents of Karabakh region. However, by refusing to use this road, the Armenian side showed its true intentions. This once again proves that in reality Armenia's goal is not "concern for ordinary Armenians" living in Karabakh, but another political show to realize its insidious plans.
The Joint Task Force Operation Delta Safe on Tuesday arrested an oil vessel MV Ofuoma and 10 crew members conveying alleged illegally refined petroleum products in Rivers State.

The Component Commander of the task force, John Siyanbade, an air commodore, who represented the task force Commander, Olusegun Ferreira, a rear admiral, said MV Ofuoma was arrested on 15 August at Abuloma jetty in Port Harcourt by the Nigerian Navy Ship, Pathfinder.

According to him, the vessel was used as a storage facility for illegally refined petroleum products.

He said: The vessel was receiving product suspected to be illegally refined AGO from a dugout wooden boat alongside it.

As it was intercepted by OPDS, about 20,000 litres of the product have already been transferred from the dugout boat to the vessel. Currently, we have about 35,000 litres still remaining on board.

The operation was conducted by troops of the JTF Operation Delta Safe Headquarters.

The commander said that the 10 suspects intercepted included both the crew on board the vessel and those on the boat.

The suspects have given credible information about where they source the product from; operation is ongoing to deactivate the illegal refining site in the area, and the operation will be for some time.

He assured that the task force would not relent in its efforts to eradicate crude oil theft and other forms of illegality in the region and warned those involved to look for legitimate means of livelihood before they were caught.

(NAN)

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Women leaders of ethnic nationalities in the Niger Delta region have called on President Bola Tinubu to publish the report of the forensic audit of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC).

Ann-Kio Briggs, who led the women, made the call during an interactive meeting with the Managing Director of NDDC, Samuel Ogbuku in Port Harcourt on Monday.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the women leaders were drawn from various ethnic organisations, civil society groups, community and faith-based organisations, market women and non-governmental organisations.

Some firms were hired by the Nigerian government to carry out a forensic audit of the NDDC from when the commission was set up in 2000 to 2019, as ordered by former President Muhammadu Buhari.

But several months after the exercise was concluded, the government is yet to make the audit findings public.

Ms Briggs, a right activist, said the delayed in releasing the report of the audit was unacceptable, especially as billions were spent to carry out the audit.

She said, The women of the Niger Delta are not happy that the forensic audit report of the NDDC has not been published.

We wish to remind President Bola Tinubu that the report of the forensic audit under the previous government is unacceptably unavailable to the public.

Also, we can no longer ignore the fact that NDDC is owed huge monies running into billions and trillions of naira, she said.

Ms Briggs said the continued delay in the release of the money had limited the ability of the commission to function optimally.

She said that women of the region have been neglected despite standing with the men in the struggle for justice, equity, accountability, and development of the region.

We, therefore, expect you (Ogbuku) to make the concerns of the women one of your priorities by ensuring that this engagement with us will yield better results, she added.

She commended the managing director for seeking partnership with International Oil Companies, developmental partners, and other government agencies to address challenges confronting the region.

Opportunity to discuss

Speaking, Mr Ogbuku said the commission had concluded plans to initiate projects and programmes that would develop the capacity of women and youths of the region.

According to him, the commission was currently working on holding a Niger Delta Stakeholders Summit to address many of the challenges faced by the various groups, including women groups.

We want to give all our leaders, political, traditional, youths, women, and other leaders the platform and opportunity to discuss what our future should be.

The women form the core of our development programmes. We have met and spoken with the youths, and now it is the turn of our mothers.

Women are critical stakeholders as part of the commissions programme to engage with all stakeholders in the formulation of NDDCs overall strategies for the regions development, he said.

Mr Ogbuku said the summit would give women the opportunity to discuss their expectations for the future as well as provide others the chance to contribute ideas for the regions development.

Similarly, stakeholders will use the opportunity to leverage on the 2023 budget  which, once signed, we should be able to agree on the areas of priorities on our current realities, he added.

(NAN)

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The National/State Assembly Election Petitions Tribunal in Ikeja, Lagos, has upheld the election of Lanre Okunlola of the All Progressives Congress (APC) as the member representing Surulere Federal Constituency II in the House of Representatives.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) had declared Mr Okunlola as the winner of the 25 February general election.

Mr Okunlola polled 27,725 votes to defeat Olatunji Shoyinka of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), who polled 4,875 votes to come second.

But Mr Shoyinka and the PDP proceeded to the tribunal to challenge Mr Okunolas victory.

In its unanimous decision on Monday, however, the tribunal dismissed the petition filed by Mr Shoyinka and his party

The tribunal agreed with Mr Okunlolas lead counsel, Wahab Shittu, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), that Mr Shoyinkas petition failed and ought to be dismissed with punitive cost.

The tribunal also awarded N200,000 costs against Mr Shoyinka and in favour of Mr Okunlola and the APC.

Mr Shoyinka and the PDP, the 1st and 2nd petitioners, had, on 16 March, filed the petition marked EPT/LAG/HR/03/2023, joining Mr Okunlola, the APC, as the 1st, 2nd and 3rd respondents.

The petitioners, through their lawyer, C. A. Abengowe, anchored their petition on two grounds.

First, they alleged that the election was invalid because of corrupt, illegal and wrongful practice perpetuated by INEC in connivance with Mr Okunlola and the APC through falsification, manipulation, and forgery of results.

Secondly, they argued that the election was invalid because of non-compliance with the provisions of the Electoral Act.

They prayed the tribunal for an order setting aside the results of the different polling units won by the APC, alleging that they were not in substantial compliance with the provisions of the Electoral Act.

They also sought a declaration that Mr Shoyinka be declared the winner of the election.

Counter-argument

But Mr Okunlola, through his lawyer, Mr Shittu, filed a preliminary objection dated 7 May, asking for an order striking out and/or dismissing the petition for being incompetent.

He also filed a motion dated 9 May for an order striking out the petitioners reply dated and filed on 15 April.

Mr Shittu argued in the motion that the Petitioners reply was an attempt to enlarge the petition, contrary to paragraphs 14 (2)(a) and 16(1)(a) of the First Schedule to the Electoral Act 2022.

Mr Shittu also addressed the allegations of manipulation. He argued that the petitioners in the course of proceedings, failed to prove the commission of the allegation beyond reasonable doubt.

They also failed to show that those allegations were committed by the agents of the respondents.

We urge this tribunal to hold that the petition has failed, it fails, and ought to be dismissed with punitive cost in favour of the Respondents.

We humbly submit that the tribunal should hold that the petitioners have failed to prove the allegations contained in the petition.

Consequently, the reliefs claimed by the petitioners are not grantable by this tribunal and we therefore urge your Lordships to dismiss this petition with substantial cost in favour of the Respondents inclusive of the 2nd Respondent, Mr Shittu added.

Delivering judgement on Monday, the tribunal upheld Mr Shittus argument and affirmed Mr Okunlolas election as the authentic lawmaker representing Surulere Federal Constituency II.

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The leadership of the Labour Party has urged the Legal Practitioners Disciplinary Committee (LPDC) to sanction a Nigerian lawyer, Monday Mawah, for allegedly misrepresenting judgements of the Court of Appeal regarding the partys leadership tussle.

Factional chairpersons of the Labour Party, Lamidi Apapa and Julius Abure, are in a legal duel for the partys soul. Peter Obi, the partys presidential candidate, and other top figures of the party recognise Mr Abure as the national chair.

In a petition dated 29 August and addressed to the LPDC chairman, Labour Partys national publicity secretary, Obiora Ifoh, accused Mr Mawah of misleading the public on Channels Television concerning two appellate court decisions on the party leadership crisis.

How Mr Mawah misled the public

The Court of Appeal had, on 24 August, delivered the contentious judgement on two suits, one of which was instituted by one Basil Maduka against the Labour Party. The other is a cross-appeal against Mr Maduka.

Mr Ifoh said Mr Maduka, an Abuja-based lawyer who is not a counsel in the matter and was not in court when the judgements were delivered, went on air on Channels Television to comment strongly on the judgements.

The petitioner alleged that while Mr Mawah was on the television programme, he falsely said the Court of Appeal had affirmed the Lamidi Apapa- led faction of the Labour Partyas the authentic leadership of the Labour Party.

According to the Labour Partys complaint, Mr Mawah further asserted that the Court (of Appeal) had ordered that the names of candidates that emerged as winners in the purported primary election conducted by the Lamidi Apapa-faction be forwarded to INEC to be imputed as the candidates of the Labour Party for the 2023 Gubernatorial elections fixed for later in the year.

Two off-circle governorship elections are billed for November in Kogi and Imo States.

The said Mr Monday Mawah falsely stated in the interview that the Court of Appeal had upheld the decision of the trial court, which the court never did, the petitioner also wrote.

The petitioner also maintained that the appellate court dismissed the appeal and held that Mr Maduka, who lodged the appeal, lacked the right to do so.

In the Labour Partys appeal, the Court held that the appeal was not necessary as the decision of the trial court was in its favour and that the mere comments of the trial judge in its judgement did not consist of an appealable decision and should be discountenanced, the petition read.

Citing some provisions of the Rules of Professional Conduct, the party official prayed the disciplinary committee to immediately commence the process of disciplining Mr Monday Mawah for infamous conduct infringing on the provisions of the Rules of Professional Conduct.

It added that Mr Mawahs alleged misconduct bordered on trial publicity, instigating controversy and litigation.

it is quite unbecoming that a lawyer of Monday Mawahs apparent ripe years at the bar should be allowed to continue to practice as a legal practitioner in Nigeria after putting out such riotous lies, which has now had the far-reaching ripple effect of painting the judiciary as a confused institution.

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In the unrelenting effort by troops to clear remnants of Boko Haram terrorists (BHT) enclaves in Borno and contiguous states, troops of 144 Battalion have successfully rescued 25 hostages held captive by the terrorists.

This was contained in a statement by the Director, Army Public Relations,. Onyema Nwachukwu, on Monday in Abuja.

Mr Nwachukwu, a brigadier general, said the gallant troops, in conjunction with Hybrid Force, extricated 14 hostages comprising six women and eight children in a clearance operation at Gobara village in Gwoza Local Government Area of Borno on Saturday.

He said the troops of 82 Task Force Battalion, in conjunction with Hybrid Force, raided the BHT enclave in Gava Village in Gwoza Local Government Area of Borno and rescued 11 civilians in a similar operation on Sunday.

According to him, all the rescued victims are in troops custody undergoing profiling.

READ ALSO:

The Army spokesperson said that seven members of the Boko Haram family surrendered to troops of the 81 Division Task Force Battalion at Dikwa Local Government Area of Borno in a separate operation on Sunday.

In an anti-banditry operation on Sunday in Kaduna State, troops of 2 Battalion, Nigerian Army, acting on actionable information, neutralised one criminal and freed four kidnap victims in Kwana Shehu Village in Birnin Gwari Local Government Area.

The rescued victims had since been reunited with their families.

Members of the public are please enjoined to support the troops with credible information to enhance ongoing operations across the country, he said.

(NAN)

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The Police in Delta State, South-south Nigeria, said they have arrested over hundred gay suspects in a hotel carrying out a gay wedding ceremony.

The police, who disclosed this in a tweet from their official Twitter hand at about 9:06 a.m. on Tuesday, said the suspects would be paraded shortly.

Homosexual relationships are illegal in Nigeria.

Nigerias anti-gay law, enacted in January 2014 by the President Goodluck Jonathan administration, stipulates a 14-year prison term for anyone convicted of having sex with members of the same sex.

The Nigerian government put the law to the test for the first time in December 2019 when 47 men arrested by the police in a hotel in Lagos the previous year were arraigned in court, accused of publicly displaying affection for members of the same sex.

All 47 men pleaded not guilty and were granted bail by the court. A federal judge later struck out the charges against the men because of a lack of diligent prosecution by the police.

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The Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, has acknowledged the huge tasks ahead of him in the areas of fight against corruption, legal education, judiciary and justice administration in the country.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Mr Fagbemi spoke on Monday at the annual reunion and award of the members of the Class of 85 of the Nigerian Law School, in Abuja.

Mr Fagbemi was the pioneer member of the class to ever be conferred with the rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) in 1996, 11 years after his call to the Bar.

In his remarks, the AGF, who was one of the awardees, solicited the support and advice of the members of the class in the discharge of his duties.

He said: On my new appointment, I want to solicit your support, prayers and advice in ensuring that we succeed in the task ahead. The tasks are by no means easy.

We have a lot of work to do in the war against corruption, in the reforms of legal education, in the judiciary and the administration of justice generally.

Describing himself as an ambassador of the set in the President Bola Tinubu administration, Mr Fagbemi said, I will not let the class or the nation down.

When I settle down, I will also pay attention to the needs of the Nigerian law school and how best to assist them, he added.

He also congratulated the 34 other members of the class who were honoured.

I can see that quite a few of them are Heads of different courts in Nigeria. I believe the honour is well deserving as a testimonial that the awardees are worthy ambassadors of this class.

I happily rejoice with all the awardees and urge them to keep up their good works that had earned them this honour, the minister added.

On the ongoing project of the group, the establishment of a medical centre at the Lagos Campus of the Nigerian Law School, Mr Fagbemi said that despite the challenges in the take-off of the project, it must still go on.

He urged all members to support the execution and delivery of the project.

I will continue to do my utmost best in assisting toward the early completion of that project, Fagbemi said.

Others speak

The Life Chairman of the association, Emeka Ngige (SAN), said that the members had fared reasonably well.

He said: We have celebrated numerous appointments, elevations and other achievements by members of this great Class.

I am happy to note that within the year under review, four of our class members were appointed as Heads of Courts in Ondo, Oyo, Benue and Kaduna States.

We also witnessed the appointment of one of us as Secretary to the Government of Lagos State.

The climax is now the appointment of our Leader, Prince Fagbemi as Nigerias 24th Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice.

Mr Ngige said that the project for the establishment of the medical centre at Lagos Campus was likely to gulp the sum of N400 million.

He added: To make the execution of the project less strenuous, we have revised the execution period. The project, including furnishing and equipment, will now be within 24 months.

The plan is to ensure that the medical centre is ready for commissioning in 2025 when, by the special grace of God, we will be marking our 40 years of Call to Bar.

The Chairman of the Local Organising Committee, Ita Enang said that the reunion was a way of giving back to the universities they graduated from.

He said: Each of us come together to say although we are each from the Nigerian Law School Class of 85, what is happening to the Faculty of Law that we graduated from?

Its our way of giving back to the university that raised us. What can we contribute to society that can make meaning to society as we are ageing and making progress in society.

Mr Enang urged the federal government to set up a Judicial Commission of Enquiry as to the loans taken by Nigeria in a bid to tackle the dwindling economy.

He said: We need to what the loans were applied for and the repayment we are making, among others.

The President has enough courage. They should recommend every person, wherever he is today who was part of taking any loan, in charge of managing that loan and tell us what happened to that money.

On his part, one of the members of the class, Patrick Ikwueto (SAN), who called for judicial reforms said that the reforms in the judiciary were quite enormous.

He said that the reforms in the sector should start first of all with how appointments were made.

Mr Ikwueto said: It will start also by making the judiciary really independent. Independent in the sense of not just saying its independent.

This is because until the judiciary becomes the manager of its affairs, control of its resources and funds, it cannot really be said to be independent.

The courts have to be decongested. The Justices are overworked and we need to think of how we decongest cases in court.

(NAN)

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In a perhaps unprecedented development since 1999, the Lagos State House of Assembly deviated from its usual path of clearing all commissioner nominees transmitted by the executive arm of government.

On 25 July, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu submitted 39 names to the legislature for screening and clearance for appointment into his cabinet.

Days later, the legislature disqualified 17 of the 39 nominees, including six who served as commissioners in the first term of the governor. The former commissioners are Gbenga Omotoso (Information and Strategy), Akin Abayomi (Health) and Sam Egube (Economic Planning and Budget).

Others are Cecilia Dada (Women Affairs and Poverty Aalleviation), Olalere Odusote (Energy Resources) and Folashade Adefisayo (Education).

The confirmation was done through a voice vote as the speaker, Mudashiru Obasa, read out the name of each nominee.

The development generated divergent opinions in the public space, with many interpreting that the governor and the speaker were at loggerheads.

In the wake of the development, it was said that Mr Sanwo-Olu had supported another candidate against Mr Obasa in the race for the seat of speaker.

But some party loyalists said the main reason some nominees who are technocrats were rejected was because they were not known in their constituencies and had no electoral value.

Micheal Uju, a public affairs analyst, said the disqualification was political.

Unfortunately, there is the sense that most of those rejected by the House are the technocrats among them who are not so much into party politics, he said.

People like Professor Akin Abayomi, we saw his role during the COVID-19 pandemic as the then Lagos commissioner for health.

Look at Mrs Folashade Adefisayo, do you not know that womans efforts at transforming Lagos public schools to what parents are now proud of?

Same with the former SA (special adviser) to the governor on works, Engineer Aramide Adeyoye, who spent not less than 15 years with a leading global construction company.

Concerns

After the governor submitted the list to the House of Assembly, many groups, including legislators, raised concerns, particularly about not being represented.

Lawmakers in the state House kicked against the list, saying their councils and party faithful who contributed to the success of the APC were excluded.

Criticism trailing the list further heightened as a group of Islamic clerics and scholars described the composition of the nominees as a continuation of the governors long-standing bias against Muslims in the state.

They said the list exhibited a callous insensitivity to diversity, equity, and fairness. But the governor denied the allegation.

The list is said to contain 31 Christians and eight Muslims.

The Epetedo Indigenes Association also described Mr Sanwo-Olus proposed cabinet as a disappointing composition that falls short of the expectations of the electorate.

The group in a statement signed by the groups chairman, Maroof-deen Oshodi, and other executive members on Monday, said they do not deserve to be marginalised after shielding the governor from electoral defeat.

This is not the first time though some commissioner nominees would be rejected.

During the second term of Babatunde Fashola, some legislators expressed strong opposition to some of the nominees. But all of them were eventually cleared.

Consensus

Mojeed Fatai, the chief whip of the House who headed the 12-member committee that screened the nominees, insisted that the decision to disqualify some of them was not made by him but by the lawmakers.

The essence of the committee is to screen and not to confirm or disqualify anybody, Mr Fatai said in an interview with TVC.

He further declined to comment on the actual reason some nominees were disqualified, just like Mr Obasa.

In his attempt to clear the air on the matter, the speaker of the House said the lawmakers would not be forced to reveal what they discovered during the screening.

Mr Obasa, during the plenary, spoke specifically on the rejection of two of the former commissioners  Messrs Abayomi and Omotoso. He said both ex-commissioners failed to deliver in some aspects.

Although he said the lawmakers would not go back on their decision unless there is a germane and convincing reason, Mr Sanwo-Olus spokesperson, Gboyega Akosile, expressed optimism that the matter will be resolved.

I believe that the governor will meet with the legislators and of course there will be a meeting ground for the two parties. And I am sure that things will pan out positively for the people of Lagos State at the end of the day, Mr Akosile said in an earlier interview.

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Police in Edo State have arrested a 24-year-old student of the University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT) for allegedly stabbing his girlfriend to death.

Commissioner of Police in Edo, Muhammed Dankwara, told reporters on Tuesday in Benin that the suspects landlord reported the case to the police.

The landlord, he said, told the police that the student stabbed the lady several times in the neck and the chest with a knife.

Police operatives immediately swung into action, arrested the suspect, recovered two knives, and rushed the victim to the hospital where her body was deposited in a morgue.

Items recovered from the suspect were two blood-stained knives, two iPhones, one Nokia phone, one laptop, and two ATM cards.

The case was transferred to the homicide section of the State Criminal Investigation Department, Benin. The suspect will be arraigned for murder soon, Mr Dankwara said.

Speaking with reporters, the suspect said the deceased travelled from Asaba to spend some time with him in Benin when he found some fetish substances in her possession.

He said this led to an argument that resulted in the girl stabbing him and that he stabbed her back.

In another development, Mr Dankwara announced the arrest of a 25-year-old who allegedly defrauded an 18-year-old of N5.2 million.

The police commissioner said fake denominations of foreign currencies and charms used for hypnotising and manipulating victims were recovered from the suspect.

He said the suspect had already written a confessional statement to the police and would soon be arraigned.

Mr Dankwara also paraded a 31-year-old who allegedly released nude pictures of his ex-girlfriend to the public and another one for alleged rape.

Another suspect paraded before reporters was a member of the Nigeria Hunters and Forest Security Service who was arrested over suspected murder.

Mr Dankwara said the suspect reportedly shot his victim to death.

(NAN)

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Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has called on state governors to support the eight-point agenda of President Bola Tinubu, saying the agenda is meant to put Nigeria in a position of respect within the comity of nations.

The minister was speaking during a courtesy visit by the Governor of Niger State, Umar Bago, on Tuesday.

Mr Idris said the president had given marching orders to the new ministers to propagate and conscientize Nigerians on the agenda, noting that he was aware that Nigerians are experiencing hardship due to recent policies and the economic downturn.

The president, he said, has also promised that the suffering would give way to a new lease of life in the long run.

To cushion the effect of the hardship, the minister said that, among other things, the federal government has shared palliatives in the form of assorted grains to complement the special financial intervention that has been distributed to the states.

Mr Idris said the states have shown commitment and support in distributing the palliative materials and that he hopes that the support will continue.

He thanked the governor for the visit and for identifying with the presidents vision.

In his remark, Mr Bago said he was at the ministry as the head of a high-powered delegation from Niger State to felicitate with the minister on his appointment and to thank the president for appointing a consummate professional to be the face of Nigeria.

ALSO READ: Nigerian legislative institute to set agenda for 10th National Assembly

He charged the minister to justify the confidence that Nigerlites have in him and join the state in spreading its vision and mission.

As the governor noted, the state, being the biggest in terms of land mass, has the potential to feed the world.

Mr Bago assured Nigerians that the minister would perform above and beyond all expectations.

The delegation comprised members of the Niger State Executive Council and members of the National Assembly from the state.

Suleiman Haruna

Deputy Director, Press

Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation

August 29, 2023

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BAKU, Azerbaijan, August 29. Azerbaijan Red Crescent Society sends humanitarian aid to people of Armenian origin living in Karabakh, President of the Azerbaijan Red Crescent Society Novruz Aslan told journalists, Trend reports.

"Our humanitarian cargo will be sent today. We will head along the Aghdam-Khankendi road. Initially, 40 tons of flour products will be sent. This step will be positively received by the residents of Armenian origin living in Khankendi and the international community," he emphasized.

The remnants of the separatist regime in Karabakh, led by the Armenian authorities, have long been trying in various ways to convince the world community and international organizations that Azerbaijan, by establishing a border crossing point on the Lachin road, is allegedly keeping the Armenian inhabitants of Karabakh under blockade, has created a humanitarian crisis situation for them, and that the Armenians are allegedly facing food shortages. Armenia, which continues to manipulate the existence of an alleged "tense humanitarian situation" and "blockade" in the region, is hindering the peace process instead of following through on the agreements reached to resolve issues related to the use of the Lachin road and other alternative roads to meet the needs of the Armenian residents of the Karabakh region.
Through a multi-faceted strategy, Czech Republic is looking to expand its partnership with Africa, while creating a long lasting positive impact on the continent And what better demographic to forge a relationship with than young Africans on track to become important voices in their respective countries.

Czech Republic: Courting Young African Leaders

Between 1948 and 1989, Czechoslovakia  as it was then known  was under communist rule. For decades, there was the absence of an opposition in government, while restrictions were in place to prevent Czechs and Slovaks from traveling to non-communist countries.

But in November 1989, an hunger for change and an end to the status quo spread across the country like wildfire. Although sparked by peaceful demonstrations organised by students, renowned dissidents such as the iconic Vaclav Havel would eventually inspire the movement to grow into a clamour for political restructuring and an end to communist leadership.

By 28 November of that year, the agitation yielded fruit as the federal assembly removed the provision in the constitution which regarded the Communist Party as the controlling authority in the country.

The movement would later be coined as the Velvet Revolution, acclaimed as a remarkable non-violent transition of power.

Given its experience with oppression and subjugation, it is perhaps no surprise that Czechia opened its doors to the Ukrainains following the Russian invasion of the country in February 2022.

Since the outbreak of the war, the country has admitted more than half a million refugees from Ukraine, with over 100,000 fully employed across different parts of Czech Republic.

The 18-month-old war, and its ripple effects, have seen many Western nations realigning and restragising their partnerships across the world.

The African Allure

As Africa improves its economic and geopolitical outlook, many foreign nations are looking to boost their alliances and gain the continents support in multilateral fora. The Czech Republic is not left out.

Through a multi-faceted strategy, Czech Republic is looking to expand its partnership with Africa, while creating a long lasting positive impact on the continent.

And what better demographic to forge a relationship with than young Africans on track to become important voices in their respective countries.

Hence the Cool Czechia; Young African Leaders Study Trip, a flagship initiative conceptualised by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Czech Republic.

From 26 July to 3 August, several young African leaders were invited to history-rich Prague  and later to serene and picturesque Telc  for an intensive nine-day workshop on democratic values, economic and trade policies, security, among others.

The invitees  comprising journalists, activists and changemakers from Nigeria, Zambia, Morocco, Ghana, Kenya, Algeria and more  exhaustively engaged Czech thought leaders, political icons and government representatives, like State Secretary Radek Rubes, on a wide array of pertinent issues.

But what exactly is Czech Republics agenda in Africa?

Efforts Towards Improving Security

In its Engaging in Africa blueprint, Czech Republic outlined its strategy to increase functioning security systems and contribute to building Africas overall security architecture, with the aim of preventing a potential spillover of terrorism and armed groups into Europe.

One of the ways to achieve this goal is by sharing knowledge and expertise to defeat terrorist groups like ISIS and Boko Haram.

This and more were thrashed out during meetings with Viktor Vojtko, member of the chamber of deputies, and Jan Skopecek, the deputy speaker, at the parliament building in Prague on 27 July.

We want to take an active role in the Africa Focus Group, established in 2021 in response to the growing threat of Daesh/ISIS on the African continent, the strategy document reads.

The Czech Republic will engage in other (existing and future) security activities of the EU and its member states in Africa, especially in the Sahel, on an ad hoc or bilateral basis. In any case, our engagement will reflect our strategic national interests and flexibly respond to the given regions security and political dynamics.

Social Media: Good Servant, Bad Master

Another way to improve security, Czech said, would be by countering disinformation tactics by countries seeking to root out the EUs participation in Africa and influence elections that would support their hostile agenda.

The Czech Republic hopes to build and strengthen the institutional framework for cyber-security to make institutions and states more resilient to cyber-attacks, and increase the capacities of institutions to combat cyber-crime, because many African countries fall short of the mark in digitisation and IT literacy, which makes them a frequent target of cyber criminals.

During a session with Filip Rozanek, a journalist and expert on new media, who serves as editor of Digizone.cz, discussions were held on the perils of social media and efforts made by the European Union to sanitise the ecosystem.

Social networks are like fire: a good servant but a bad master. The fuel of social networks is emotion. And the fire is fuelled primarily by hate, Rozanek said in his presentation at the Summer School of European Studies in Telc.

Following the Russian invasion of Ukraine in January 2022, the Czech domain administrator and operators shut down access to several websites to curtail the spread of fake news and disinformation.

It is for this reason, among others, that the EU conceived the Digital Services Act and the Digital Market Act as forms of regulation for activities on social media. The regulation is expected to take effect from 17 February, 2024, with defaulting parties expected to be fined as much as 6% of their annual turnover.

Prosperity and Sustainability

The landlocked Central Europe country said it is looking to help Africa become more stable, prosperous, healthy, and educated.

Africa does not yet play a major role in the Czech Republics foreign trade; however, in absolute numbers, its share is growing while the number of substantial Czech investments is on the rise.

Our economic diplomacy will focus on the sectors where we have substantial know-how and experience: health care, agriculture, water and sanitation, the building of infrastructure including energy infrastructure, mining, textile and food industry equipment, defence and security industry, IT and cyber-security, the countrys foreign ministry said.

Czech also said it will increase awareness for its private sector about the investment opportunities available in Africa and encourage companies and industry associations to offer Africa complex solutions and not just products.

In light of the impact of the Russian-Ukraine war on food security in Africa, it is clear that support of agricultural development will play a key role in the continents economic, social and security stability.

Czechs foreign ministry said the country will promote comprehensive approaches designed to increase agricultural productivity and diversification, and to improve access to safe, nutritious and sufficient food for all groups of the population.

The country also intends to focus on supporting small and middle-scale African farmers by improving the knowledge of resilient and sustainable agricultural practices, and encouraging mechanisation, smart farming solutions, and the building of local value chains for agriculture and food production.

Our efforts to help increase Africas agricultural productivity will not omit to address the impacts of climate change. We will seek to improve access to water (irrigation technologies) and water management including wastewater treatment, Czech Republic said in its strategy document.

Improving Healthcare Systems

The COVID-19 pandemic made it clear that Africas prosperity, sustainable development and economic and social stability largely depend on the health of its population. Although Africa had lower infection rates than Europe and other parts of the world, the impact of the pandemic on economic growth was significant.

As such, one of Czech Republics strategies is to promote academic, scientific, and technical cooperation with African countries, by helping to reinforce local healthcare capacities and deliver healthcare and medical supplies, ranging from vaccines to intensive care unit equipment, and hospitals.

Our engagement in this area will continue in the coming years, the country said.

To help improve the health resilience of African countries, we will bring in leading Czech medical equipment manufacturers and healthcare solutions providers. We will draw on our scientific and academic expertise, as well as on our experience with development cooperation projects and the MEDEVAC programme.

Our aim is to offer our African partners comprehensive healthcare solutions and to help make quality healthcare accessible to all.

As Czech Republic forges ahead with it efforts to ramp up its relationship with Africa on different levels, the youths of the continent  who are building and innovating  are waiting to see how it unravels.

Kolapo Olapoju, the Editor of TheCable, writes from Lagos.

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A modern-day life without cement is simply impossible. Cement plays one of the most fundamental roles in construction as a key element in the economic growth of any country.

In Nigeria today, the need for rapid infrastructural development and improved real-estate investment by private and commercial home builders continues to create a high demand for cement in the country. This further creates direct and indirect employment as well as provides multiple economic benefits to associated industries across the entire value chain.

In spite of its socio-economic benefits, the cement industry faces many challenges due to environmental concerns and sustainability issues. To address this issue, Lafarge Africa Plc, has invested significant resources, about 7.5mCHF towards reducing the environmental impact of its operations to the barest minimum by adopting state-of-the-art technology whilst prioritizing the health and safety of the people and host communities.

Lafarge Africa sets high standards for health, safety and the environment (HSE). The companys goal is to conduct its business with zero harm to people while minimizing its environmental footprint. To achieve this, it has completed the installation of a new bag filter technology at its Ewekoro plant  which is a key milestone in the Companys compliance to Nigerian regulatory standards and in line with its sustainability strategy.

We continuously upgrade our operating models and strategy through extensive investments in research and innovation. In order to comply with global standards and contribute to building a safer planet, we successfully replaced our dust emission control device in our Ewekoro Plant I, from the Electrostatic Precipitator (ESP) to a more modern and effective system, the Bag House dust collection system, said Rachael Ezembakwe, Head of Health, Safety and Environment, Lafarge Africa Plc.

To mitigate dust emissions from other sources, such as from roads surrounding its plants, Lafarge has instituted measures to consistently reduce fugitive emissions in all its plants, preserve the local environment and minimize the impact on the neighbouring/host communities. The company also conducts air quality measurement of its plant up to 10 km radius to assure conformance to acceptable limits.

Ezembakwe stated further, We are fully aware of the environmental impact of our operations, particularly on our host communities. As such, we carried out a comprehensive social impact assessment in our Ewekoro plant in the year 2020, resulting in a robust action plan to reduce dust emission.

The implementation of the action plan involved changing the Electrostatic Precipitator (ESP) used at the Plant to a bag house filter, in addition to other significant adjustments to our production activities, over a period of six (6) months. A robust maintenance system was also put in place for the dust control equipment at the Plant.

Furthermore, Ezembakwe confirmed: The dust emissions at our Ewekoro Plant has since remained below the regulatory limit of 50mg/Nm3. The emission levels are also monitored real time to ensure that it remains within acceptable limits, and validated by the National Environmental standard and Regulations Agency (NESREA) during its periodic monitoring inspection of our Ewekoro Plant. Quarterly monitoring exercise by government accredited agencies are also conducted at the Plant, and the reports of the inspection are submitted to our regulators.

Lafarge Africa maintains in good relationship with its host communities, and as part of its corporate social responsibility, the building solutions company has continued to live up to its billing of improving the living standard of its host communities in Ewekoro and Sagamu in Ogun State through the provision of basic business and vocational skills, start-up kits, education grants, community projects, agricultural funds, healthcare and education facilities, among others, on a yearly basis.

To reiterate Lafarge Africas commitment to the health of its host communities, Lafarge provides annual medical examination and treatment, including medications, medicated glasses, wheelchair etc. to support the health of community members.

As a member of the Holcim  the leading global construction materials and solutions company in the world, care for the environment and for its host communities is built into all aspects of Lafarge Africa operations within the country. Its social impact is focused on the areas of the most needs: Education, Empowerment, Health and Safety and Shelter/infrastructure.

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Details have emerged of alleged mismanagement of local government funds in Ogun State after a local government chairman on Sunday accused Governor Dapo Abiodun of withholding statutory allocations from the federation accounts to local governments in the state.

The Chairman of Ijebu East Local Government, Wale Adedayo, said the governor had perpetrated the illegal act since he took office in May 2019.

Mr Adedayo made the accusation in a letter he addressed to a former governor of the state and a leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Olusegun Osoba; and made public on Sunday. Mr Adedayo is a member of the APC like Mr Abiodun.

The current set of council chairpersons in the state was elected into office in June 2021.

Mr Adedayo said the illegal seizure of their funds had crippled local governments in the state and brought their officials to ridicule before citizens at the council areas for non-performance.

He stated: This letter should have been written about two years ago. But I was wary of what many naive people would say about me. Besides, at your age and given the level of your selfless contributions to the development of our state, and Nigeria in general, we expect you to be taking a well deserved rest at this time. But agba kii wa ni oja, ki ori omo titun wo (we expect the elderly to intervene in correcting wrongs that everyone appears to have overlooked).

Your urgent intervention is sorely needed to convince the Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, that the statutory Federal Allocation to Local Governments in Ogun State should be allowed to reach each of them as envisaged by the 1999 Constitution. Since we (Ogun State Local Government Chairmen) got on board in 2021, it has been ZERO Federal Allocation to each local government. The 10% of the states Internally Generated Revenue, which the Constitution also stipulated should go to the local governments has not been given since Abiodun got into office.

Now, the negative consequences of Zero Federal Allocations to Local Government Councils in Ogun State should be clear for all to see. We should not not have lost the last elections in all the places we did during the Governorship and House of Assembly polls IF our local governments were being funded as provided for in the 1999 Constitution. I am not proud to say that we (Local Government Chairmen) have done very little or NOTHING since we were sworn in because the funds to work are being withheld by Mr. Governor.

Former President Muhammadu Buhari assisted the states and Local Governments with what we call palliatives today. They called it, SURE-P. The first sent to the 20 local governments in Ogun State was N2.5 billion. The second one was N2.6 billion. The third was N2.8 billion, while the fourth shortly before Buhari left office was N2.9 billion. Not a dime of these funds was released to ANY local government in Ogun State. The Ogun State Executive Committee of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) had a meeting with the Commissioner for Finance, Mr. Dapo Okubadejo, early this year. The Commissioner claimed that the 20 local governments were owing the Ogun State Government N17 billion, which they continue to deduct. But I know for a fact that my Ijebu East Local Government is NOT owing Abeokuta one Naira!

Weve also heard about Ecological funds and others. These have developed wings too without trace. It is certain that the current one being packaged by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu may likely follow the same course. And, we are the ones the people will abuse. I am the butt of jokes in my local government right now, with many saying one is incompetent.

Truly, denying local governments their due Federal Allocations in Ogun State began during the Administration of former Governor, Senator Ibikunle Amosun. And, as it is happening today, it was based on a spurious claim of helping some local governments, who may not be able to fulfill their obligations to the people because of financial challenges. Thus, all the funds are regularly collected into a central purse from where salaries and other dues are paid. Whatever that is left is often claimed by the State Government as debts being paid by the local governments.

Revenue sources, which the local governments should benefit from have mostly been taken over by the State Government. Motor Parks and attendant dues which should go to each local government are being centrally managed by the State Government. Primary school administration and control have been taken over too. There are many others. But, what I crave is for you to assist in helping our people.

In Ijebu East Local Government Areaour people need roads, especially in the interior. They need water. The Health Centres are nothing to write home about. The primary schools are something else. It is a crying shame that, in 2023 some of our people still depend on water from the stream to drink! Great Awo provided pipe borne water almost 60 years ago!

The governor has denied the allegations in a statement issued to PREMIUM TIMES.

Other sources speak

However, Mr Adedayos allegation has been corroborated by other sources in the state, including many local government chairpersons and ruling party members who spoke with PREMIUM TIMES on condition of anonymity for fear of retribution from the governor.

One of the local government chairpersons said the mismanagement of council funds by the governor had been of great concern to political and other leaders in the state, some of whom the source said had engaged Mr Abiodun privately on it

The source recalled how the Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Adetona, once publicly expressed his concern to the governor.

The governor had visited Oba Adetona in company with some of his officials in June 2022 at Ijebu Ode. Abiodun was shocked to hear a subtle query from the Oba. Speaking in Ijebu dialect, the Oba told Abiodun, Gomina, kii de se kee mu Federal Allocation owon local government run won (Mr Governor, why are you not giving the Federal Allocation of local governments in Ogun State to them)? It was a hushed silence that enveloped the room with the governor stylishly changing the subject matter, the council leader recalled.

Another council official said the governor withheld N8.1 billion due to the 20 local councils in Ogun from the bailout funds released by the federal government under former President Muhammadu Buhari to all the local councils across the country in 2023.

According to the official, the bailouts came in three tranches of N2.5 billion, N2.7 billion and N2.9 billion. Out of the amount as of May, N5.2 billion had disappeared without any local government benefitting from it. The balance of N2.9 billion is hanging in the balance in Abeokuta as it is yet to be disbursed.

Several council bosses who spoke with PREMIUM TIMES confirmed that the governor does not spare the internally generated revenue of the councils.

Since the inception of the Abiodun administration (in May 2019), local governments cannot collect rates or levies from commercial motorcycles, cars and others. Such rates, which are collected daily, go to the state government. Meanwhile, the tickets bear the local governments name. Not a dime is remitted to the local governments, one of the officials said.

It is the same with tenement rates for premises, especially commercial entities. No local government in Ogun State can collect tenement rates.

Of course, the worst is the monthly Federal Allocation. Yes, there is a monthly Joint Account Allocation Committee (JAAC) meeting, which should be presided over by the Commissioner for Finance. The Commissioner for Finance has never attended any. The meeting is usually attended by the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs along with the Ogun State Accountant General.

Not one naira gets to any of the 20 local governments since Dapo Abiodun assumed office as governor. The meeting is just for information about what comes in from Abuja.

The funds for all the local governments are centralised and managed by the governor. An account was opened at Access Bank PLC, Abeokuta branch for each of the 20 local governments by Mr Governor. It is from this account that salaries, allowances and security votes of chairmen are paid.

Meanwhile, beyond these payments, no local government can access funds from the account as they are not signatories. Each Chairman and Director of Finance of each local government will only get credit or debit alerts. An account could have like N300 million by morning, and by evening a debit alert of N295 million could be seen without any emanating from the local government. The accounts are being managed directly by Mr. Governor.

Each time the Federal Government bails out states and LGs, the whole funds end up at the state level.

So many things cannot be done by the local governments. Things are bad. Sadly, apart from the Awujale of Ijebuland, not a single APC leader in Ogun State has kicked against this, one of the sources said.

Governor reacts

In a statement by his chief press secretary, Lekan Adediran, the governor said he had never diverted council funds, adding that he had instead supplemented the funds to enable local governments in the state to meet their obligations and carry out development projects.

Mr Adeniran wondered how adding to the funds allocated to the local councils to enable them to meet their obligations amounted to hijacking their funds.

He said the funds are routed to the councils through the Joint Account and Allocation Committee (JAAC), adding that the latest meeting of the JAAC members was held last week and was widely reported in the media.

The JAAC, according to the statement, comprises major stakeholders in local government administration, including the Chief Economic Adviser to the governor, Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Accountant General of the State, Permanent Secretary, Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, all 20 local government chairmen, one representative from each of the four Traditional Councils in the state, representative of SUBEB, NULGE, local govt pensioners, retired primary school teachers, Local Government Service Commission, Local Government Pension Commission and the NUT.

The statement said at the last meeting, which was held at the Conference Hall, Obas Complex, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, over N5 billion was shared among the 20 local government areas, out of which over N2 billion went into paying teachers.

Between May 2023, when the Governor was sworn in for the second term and July 2023, the JAAC shared among 20 local governments N4.531b, N4.444b and N4.497b respectively on first line charges and just last week N5.2b was shared among the local governments for the month of August, the statement said.

At the meeting, it said the state government fully disclosed the receipt from the federation account, adding that the same pattern has been followed since Governor Abiodun took over the states leadership in 2019.

In addition to these, the state government also disburses funds to all local governments for developmental projects periodically, the statement added.

N132 billion income

Data on the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) website shows that between May and December 2019, over N25.4 billion acrued to local governments in Ogun State from the Federation Account.

In 2020, the allocations totalled N37,679,432,983.66; N40,005,104,742 in 2021, and N29, 349, 500, 718 in 2022.

The data showed that under Governor Abioduns first term as governor between May 2019 and December 2022, allocations to the 20 LGAs in his state from the federation totalled over N132 billion.

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BAKU, Azerbaijan, August 29. Azerbaijan's Commissioner for Human Rights (ombudsman) Sabina Aliyeva has responded to the statement of the Council of Europe Commissioner for Human Rights, Trend reports.

"We believe that the latest statement made by the Council of Europe Commissioner for Human Rights regarding the Lachin road is a continuation of the process of defending untrue claims made in relation to the humanitarian situation in the Azerbaijani town of Khankendi that were based on political manoeuvring by Armenia. We anticipated a more thorough investigation of such a delicate subject and a more objective statement from the European Commissioner, which may help to normalize the situation and significantly advance the peace process, which is crucial at this point.

Despite the fact that the Aghdam-Khankendi road is open and offered for the transportation of all goods for humanitarian aid, the provocative statements of Armenia and its patrons seriously hinder the normalization of the situation in the region and the peace process.

We call on the Council of Europe Commissioner for Human Rights to respect the principle of territorial integrity of states, to deeply study the current situation in the region, to fight against obstacles that serve political manipulation and undermine the peacebuilding process, as well as to uphold the universally recognized principles of international law," the statement reads.

The Council of Europe Commissioner for Human Rights, Dunja Mijatovic, yesterday expressed a biased opinion about the Lachin Subcommittee and Azerbaijan.
MINEOLA, N.Y., Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- $22 million in damages has just been awarded by a New York State trial judge to the first of 104 patients-survivors of Stuart M. Copperman, the notorious former Long Island serial pedophile-pediatrician who sexually abused scores of young girls  as toddlers into their teens - over decades in his home-based medical office; the Copperman victims in the litigation leading to the landmark award have been jointly represented since 2021 by the law firms of Saltz Mongeluzzi Bendesky and Gruenberg Kelly Della (GKD).

Kristen Gibbons Feden, who heads the Survivors of Sexual Abuse unit at Saltz Mongeluzzi, and was a former prosecutor on the team that convicted sexual predator Bill Cosby, said following the award to the plaintiff identified to protect her identity as A.R. 1, "This is what perpetrator accountability looks like. Under the unyielding force of New York's 2019 Child Victim's Survival Act, the cries of Copperman's victims, once silenced, now roar through the halls of justice. This landmark legislation paved the way for valiant survivors, like this plaintiff, to pull their haunting pasts from the shadows and lay bare the heinous crimes committed against them for the world to witness. These women, robbed of their innocence as children, have waited long enough. Today, the court not only listens but acts, awarding this first survivor $17 million in compensatory damages and an unequivocal $5 million more in punitive damages, a firm strike against the predator that dared to prey upon these courageous women who preyed on these women when they were innocent children."

Ms. Feden's law partner, Robert J. Mongeluzzi, New York born-and-raised said, "This decision and award leaves absolutely no doubt that Stuart Copperman was a predatory menace to the girls of his Long Island community and evaded justice for too long. After reviewing the facts in this case, and hearing from our highly experienced forensic psychiatric expert on the devastating impact Copperman had on the victim's life, the court concluded, "Copperman's sexual abuse has robbed plaintiff of a normal, healthy and happy life. The court finds that the psychological scars resulting from the abuse are permanent."

Michael Della, of GKD, and co-counsel for the plaintiffs, said, "Copperman was not a kind, compassionate pediatrician  the public image he nurtured; he was a monster doing barbaric things on his examination table to these children, irreparably destroying many lives."

Jessica E. Vertullo, also of Long Island-based GKD, added, "We are so proud and honored to represent the plaintiffs in these cases brought under the CVA, and to share with our clients this significant award. And we join the court in hoping that this $22 million award sends an unmistakable message of deterrence who think they can commit sexual abuse against children and get away with it."

NOTE: Members of the Copperman Survivors Legal Team will be available to discuss the court's decision and award. All plaintiff interview requests will be handled through counsel. These include the National Sexual Assault Hotline operated by RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network). To speak confidentially to a trained staff member from a local sexual assault service provider call 800-656-HOPE or visit https://hotline.rainn.org/online. Other resources include Long Island Against Domestic Violence

SOURCE Saltz Mongeluzzi Bendesky P.C.
DUBLIN, Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The "Pain Patch Market By Product Type, By Type, By Distribution Channel: Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 2021-2031" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.

The global pain patches market, valued at $4.80 billion in 2021, is projected to witness substantial growth and reach an estimated value of $7.33 billion by 2031, with a steady Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 4.3% from 2022 to 2031.

Pain patches, transdermal solutions designed for controlled pain relief, are gaining traction for their ability to offer continuous medication release. These patches are commonly used for chronic pain conditions like arthritis, back pain, and neuropathic pain, providing a consistent and effective approach to managing discomfort. Market dynamics, including the rise in chronic pain cases and the aging population, contribute to the anticipated growth.

The market's driving forces include the increase in chronic pain cases and the growing elderly population. As per the U.S. Pain Foundation's 2022 report, an estimated 50 million people endure chronic pain each year. This escalating prevalence of chronic pain is a key driver for market expansion. Additionally, the elderly are particularly susceptible to chronic pain conditions such as joint pain and neuropathy, propelling market growth.

A surge in awareness about advanced pain management methods and the availability of Over-the-Counter (OTC) pain patches like methyl salicylate and nitroglycerin are expected to further stimulate market growth. Advancements in patch technology are also poised to enhance market prospects. Industry leaders are pursuing strategies like collaborations and expansions to bolster their global presence. For instance, Sorrento Therapeutics Inc. expanded coverage of their lidocaine topical system, ZTlido, to a substantial number of lives, showcasing how such expansions can drive market growth.

However, the pain patches market faces challenges stemming from the availability of alternative treatments such as acupuncture, physical therapy, and chiropractic care. Furthermore, stringent government regulations related to the manufacturing and marketing of opioid-containing pain patches could hinder market growth.

Market Dynamics:

Drivers:

Technological Advancements in Pain Patches

Rise in Prevalence of Chronic Pain

Growing Adoption of Pain Patches for Pain Management

Restraints:

Availability of Alternative Treatments

Stringent Government Regulations

Opportunities:

Growth Prospects in Emerging Markets

The comprehensive market report offers stakeholders several benefits, including:

Quantitative analysis of market segments, trends, and dynamics from 2021 to 2031.

Insights into key drivers, restraints, and opportunities influencing the market.

Porter's five forces analysis to guide profit-oriented decision-making.

In-depth segmentation analysis to identify prevailing market opportunities.

Revenue contribution mapping of major countries within each region.

Benchmarking and understanding the market player landscape.

Key Market Segments:

Product Types:

Non-Opioid Patches: Including Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs, Methyl Salicylate, Lidocaine, and Others.

Opioid Patches: Comprising Buprenorphine and Fentanyl.

Types:

Prescription Medicines

Over-the-Counter (OTC) Medicines

Distribution Channels:

Hospital Pharmacies

Drug Stores and Retail Pharmacies

Online Providers

Regions:

North America : U.S., Canada , Mexico

: U.S., , Europe : Germany , France , UK, Italy , Spain , Rest of Europe

: , , UK, , , Rest of Asia-Pacific : Japan , China , India , Australia , South Korea , Rest of Asia-Pacific

: , , , , , Rest of LAMEA: Brazil , Saudi Arabia , South Africa , Rest of LAMEA

Key Market Players:

Leading players in the pain patches market include NEXGEL Advanced Hydrogel Solutions, Viatris Inc., Johnson and Johnson, Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd., Sorrento Therapeutics Inc., Hisamitsu Pharmaceutical Co.,Inc., Endo International plc., Purdue Pharma L.P., Amneal Pharmaceuticals LLC, and Grunenthal.

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/8m4zps

About ResearchAndMarkets.com

ResearchAndMarkets.com is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends.

Media Contact:

Research and Markets

Laura Wood, Senior Manager

[email protected]

For E.S.T Office Hours Call +1-917-300-0470

For U.S./CAN Toll Free Call +1-800-526-8630

For GMT Office Hours Call +353-1-416-8900

U.S. Fax: 646-607-1904

Fax (outside U.S.): +353-1-481-1716

Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/539438/Research_and_Markets_Logo.jpg

SOURCE Research and Markets
The Inception Research Institute continues forging the path of advanced reproductive technologies

through investments in groundbreaking studies and addressing the industry's pressing needs and challenges

HOUSTON, Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Inception Fertility, the largest provider of comprehensive fertility and support services in North America, celebrates the first anniversary of the Inception Research Institute, an organization within the Inception ecosystem dedicated to advancing all aspects of fertility care through groundbreaking research and strategic partnerships.

Established in 2022, the Inception Research Institute elevates the field of reproductive medicine by addressing the industry's most urgent needs, including cutting-edge advances in patient care through pharmacological innovations and device development, improving access to care, professional development and advancement, and innovative studies which investigate the relationships between treatment success and controllable entities such as lifestyle habits and emotional health.

The Inception Research Institute also supports the clinical research of The Prelude Network (Prelude), Inception's clinical network of top-tier fertility practices across North America, by providing centralized services such as IRB applications, contract review, and recruitment support. A significant number of Prelude's research studies have been published in leading medical journals, including a breakthrough 15-year study on egg freezing. These research studies have been presented at the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM)'s and the European Society for Human Reproduction and Embryology (ESHRE)'s annual scientific congresses, as well as publications in the leading peer-reviewed medical journals.

"We know that the best way to improve patient care is through research, and the need for quality reproductive care will continue to grow, so in order for the industry to meet the inevitable increase in cutting-edge science, we have to invest in understanding and improving each part of the fertility process, from the science of reproductive medicine to the patient journey," said Alice Domar, PhD, Chief Compassion Officer at Inception, and the Director of the Inception Research Institute. "The Inception Research Institute proudly invests in those efforts that we know will strengthen all aspects of fertility care, so that we can increase successful outcomes for future aspiring parents."

Investment in fertility studies is one component of reaching the organization's goals and goes beyond technology research to include all aspects of the patient's journey. Current studies include looking at how AI can improve treatment outcomes, investigating the impact of physiological manifestations of stress on IVF cycle outcome, investigating how to improve the patient-centered care experience, as well as FDA pharma and device trials. A full list of active Inception research studies can be found at fertilitystudies.com.

"The launch of the Inception Research Institute is a positive step forward in addressing our industry's most pressing challenges, including access expansion, evolving technologies, and improving the patient experience," says Dr. Jamie Grifo, Program Director at NYU Langone Fertility Center, Chief Executive Physician at Inception Fertility. "We look forward to continuing to expand our research and uncovering breakthrough solutions that will propel the industry forward."

To learn more about the Inception Research Institute, please visit inceptionfertility.com/inception-research-institute.

About Inception Fertility

Inception Fertility (Inception) is a family of fertility brands committed to helping patients build their own families. Built by patients for patients, Inception's purpose is to achieve the highest bar in experience, science and medicine in an effort to enhance each patient's experience and achieve better outcomes.

Inception's medical experts are leading pioneers in fertility care. Our doctors are some of the first to use breakthrough assisted reproductive technologies (ART)  including in vitro fertilization (IVF), preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) and fertility preservation services  and they continue to lead the industry by building on these technologies by thorough development, research and thought leadership.

Through its growing family of national organizations  which includes The Prelude Network, the fastest-growing network of fertility clinics and largest provider of comprehensive fertility services in North America; Pathways Fertility, clinics that provide affordable, individualized and high quality care; MyEggBank, one of the largest frozen donor egg banks in North America; BUNDL Fertility, a multi-cycle fertility service bundling program; HavenCryo, a long-term reproductive preservation and storage solution provider and NutraBloom, a premium lifestyle brand with expertly formulated supplements to support individuals' health and wellness goals for preconception  Inception is working to deliver on its promise to push the envelope of what is possible for exceeding patient expectations.

CONTACT:

Anna Lonsway

216-905-0275

[email protected]

SOURCE Inception Fertility
The company is a leading manufacturer of wind blades in Latin America and one of the largest producers of wind blades in the global market

SAO PAULO, Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Aeris Energy, a leading Brazilian manufacturer of wind blades in Latin America and one of the largest producers in the global market, has a services division in the USA to meet the growing demand for wind energy, which is expected to increase by 20% in the coming years worldwide, doubling installed capacity by 2030, according to the Lazard Levelized Cost of Energy Analysis and Future of Wind 2019 (Irena).

With an eye on this market and the need for inspection and maintenance services for the wind turbine fleet due to growth and the aging of turbines, Aeris has bet on a specialized wind turbine services unit: Aeris Service. The division, set up in 2013 in Brazil and with a branch in the USA since 2018, provides services such as preventive and corrective maintenance, photographic inspections, painting, cleaning, and repairs of wind blades. One of its differentials is its proprietary Specialized Training Center, which guarantees qualified training.

This strategy is a good fit with the drive for renewable sources in the USA, with its plans to create new clean energy (wind and solar) plants with an installed capacity of approximately 606 gigawatts. This follows the goal set by President Joe Biden, which calls for the elimination of carbon dioxide emissions in the US by 2035, as widely reported in the local press.

In addition to the new wind turbine units that will be installed and will need inspection in the coming years  the company already has a contract with the main equipment manufacturers  there is another opportunity in the US market in mature turbine lines. A lot of projects are not covered by the manufacturer's total care contracts, and in this context the company has formed closer direct relationships with wind farm owners to cover demand for maintenance and repair services in this market.

"We want to provide the best solutions for a green transition to our renewable energy clients anywhere in the world. The growth in the use of this matrix will generate increased demand for specialized services and Aeris is well positioned to support its clients on this front," says Alexandre Negrao, CEO of Aeris.

About Aeris Energy

With plants strategically located in one of the best regions for wind power generation in the world, in Ceara state, Brazil, Aeris Energy is a leading manufacturer of wind turbine blades in Latin America and one of the largest producers in the global market. It was founded in 2010 by a group of engineers from the aeronautics sector who saw the growth potential for wind energy in the Brazilian energy matrix and the increasing demand for sustainable solutions in the energy market. The company operates two plants in the Pecem Industrial and Port Complex, in the municipality of Caucaia/Ceara state.

For further information, please visit: https://www.aerisenergy.com.br/

SOURCE Aeris Energy
The two local leading educational institutions are joining forces to advance equity in education and representation in the classroom

SAN DIEGO, Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Alliant International University and San Diego Unified School District (SDUSD) have partnered through SDUSD's TEACH-LEAD program in order to support aspiring teachers on their educational journey. With both institutions dedicated to equity in education, representation in the classroom, and providing the support that teachers need both in education and practice, the partnership was a natural step toward shared impact.

San Diego Unified School District

TEACH-LEAD San Diego (TLSD) is San Diego Unified's latest endeavor focused on eliminating barriers that hold future educators back from pursuing their goals. The new program offers both financial and personalized pathway resources to individuals beginning or continuing their journey towards a career as a teacher. TEACH-LEAD San Diego is the district's new "grow your own" teacher pipeline program, dedicated to supporting individuals in becoming teachers in their local communities.

TLSD supports the recruitment and development of certified practitioners that reflect the district's diverse population of students. As California's second-largest district, San Diego Unified serves more than 95,000 students from more than 15 ethnic groups. Studies have shown that all students benefit when they have access to teachers and leaders who look like them and may have similar life experiences.

Alliant's California School of Education (CSOE) is dedicated to preparing competent, confident, and conscientious educational leaders who will promote and empower personal growth, academic success, and professional achievement for all.

Through this partnership, employees of SDUSD can pursue their single subject or education specialist credential at Alliant with or without a master's degree in education with a 20% tuition savings and application fee waiver. Those who currently hold a teaching credential can complete a bilingual added authorization in Spanish or Mandarin so they can teach in a dual-language classroom. In addition, SDUSD & Alliant have an internship agreement allowing candidates to serve as the teacher of record (once intern eligible) with salary and benefits while completing their credential program.

"We believe that every student deserves a qualified and impactful teacher in the classroom, no matter their background, circumstance, or zip-code," said Dr. Kristy Pruitt, dean of the California School of Education at Alliant International University. "We also believe that every aspiring teacher deserves the opportunity and support they need to become a teacher. That is why this partnership with TEACH-LEAD is such a natural fit, and we look forward to growing our impact together."

"We are delighted to welcome Alliant University to our network of esteemed partners," said Kimberly Moore, San Diego Unified's Executive Director of Diversity, Inclusion & Development, and leader for the TEACH-LEAD program. "Their dedication to excellence in teacher education and willingness to eliminate barriers diverse candidates face aligns perfectly with our mission, and we look forward to collaborating closely to shape the future of education together."

Through this partnership, Alliant and SDUSD hope to help pave the path to the classroom for San Diego's aspiring teachers while building a brighter educational future for all of San Diego's students.

About Alliant International University

Alliant is a private university accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC) which offers programs in psychology, education, management and leadership, forensic studies, law, and nursing. Alliant's mission is to prepare students for professional careers of service and leadership, and to promote the discovery and application of knowledge to improve the lives of people in diverse cultures and communities around the world.

More information is available at www.alliant.edu .

About TEACH-LEAD

The TEACH-LEAD program is a leading initiative dedicated to supporting and empowering aspiring teachers in their journey towards becoming exceptional educators. By providing comprehensive resources, financial assistance, mentorship, and professional development opportunities, the program aims to shape the future of education and foster excellence in the teaching profession.

Learn more at www.sandi.net/TeachLeadSD

About San Diego Unified:

As the second-largest school district in California, the San Diego Unified School District serves more than 95,000 students, from infancy through grade 12 and beyond. The students and families of the San Diego community represent more than 163 countries and bring the richness of more than 60 languages and dialects; approximately 18% of its students are multilingual. The diversity of the student population includes 45% Latinx, 24% White, 7% Black, 10% Asian, and 5% Filipino. All members of the San Diego Unified community are collectively responsible for the children in our school systems. We believe students, and their families, are at the center of our collective mission in ensuring equity and belonging, to create conditions for students to thrive.

Learn more at www.sandi.net/teachleadsd and www.sandi.net/jobs

MEDIA CONTACTS

San Diego Unified: Kimberly N. Moore

(619)725-7295 [email protected]

Isabella McNeil

(619)341-2343 [email protected]

Alliant University:Cielo Villasenor

[email protected]

SOURCE Alliant International University
Physician platform Alo supporting independent practices in North Carolina with new option for maintaining independence while improving operations and enhancing care

Agreement with Blue Cross NC supports participating practices committed to quality and efficiency improvements

Alo CIN practices gain access to shared data and advanced analytics through Innovaccer-driven tech platform

DURHAM, N.C., Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Alo, the North Carolina-based healthcare company founded to support independent providers and help them maintain their independence, has launched the Alo Clinically Integrated Network (CIN), giving physicians more ways to strengthen their practices and enhance patient care. The launch is supported by a network agreement with Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina (Blue Cross NC) and by Alo's selection of Innovaccer , the Health Cloud company, to enable practices to share data and access advanced analytics.

The Alo CIN helps North Carolina's independent practices remain physician-owned while improving their financial footing. Between 2010 and 2018 the number of independently owned practices in North Carolina decreased 22% as more than 2,000 independent practices closed or were acquired by health systems and corporate entities.1

A clinically integrated network is a formal partnership of like-minded physicians who collaborate to improve healthcare quality, access, and efficiency. In return for demonstrating value such as improved patient health outcomes and reduced costs, CINs can collectively contract with insurance companies and other payors. The physician-led Alo CIN will provide participating members technology, analytics, education, and best practices to generate a better patient and physician experience. Participating practices will also gain enhanced access to patient services such as behavioral health, psychiatry services, chronic care management, wellness, and nutrition counseling.

"Leading a physician practice these days isn't for the faint of heart," says Matt Eirich, CEO and President of Alo. "Independent physicians need more options and more support for their wellbeing and their future. By working closely with Blue Cross NC and Innovaccer, Alo is giving North Carolina physicians an innovative solution to help them remain financially sustainable and thrive in the years to come."

Alo's selection of Innovaccer gives practices joining the CIN valuable access to technology and capabilities they often can't afford on their own. These include reporting to help improve care quality, enhance patient outcomes and satisfaction, and strengthen financial performance. The system allows practices and provider groups to connect their EHR directly to the Alo CIN, interoperate, and collaborate to deliver more efficient, affordable, coordinated care without being locked into any one health system or tech stack.

The Alo CIN is now accepting applications from independent physician practices in North Carolina. Importantly, practices can join the Alo CIN while maintaining any existing ACO agreement they may have. The first Alo CIN member is Avance Care, Alo's subsidiary network of 32 practices, over 120 primary care providers, and 70 mental health professionals. Learn more: www.alosolutions.com/CIN

About Alo

Alo, the parent company of Avance Care, is a physician enablement platform that provides solutions designed to support long-term practice sustainability. Founded by a team of industry veterans that understand how to change the playing field for independent practices, Alo helps physicians optimize their practices so that they and their patients can thrive. The company is headquartered in Durham, NC and currently supports more than 30 independent practice and provider groups delivering high-quality care to over 100,000 covered lives. www.alosolutions.com .

1 North Carolina Medical Society. (2019). The State of Independent Physician Practices in North Carolina. Raleigh, NC: North Carolina Medical Society.

SOURCE Alo
VoterGA: Impeach Fani Willis for Prosecutorial Misconduct in 'Phony' Indictment of 19 Political Adversaries

NEWS PROVIDED BY

VoterGA

Aug. 29, 2023

ATLANTA, Aug. 29, 2023 /Standard Newswire/ -- VoterGA called today for the Georgia General Assembly to immediately initiate a Special Session on elections and impeach Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis for prosecutorial misconduct in the filing of a "phony" indictment against 19 of her political adversaries. The VoterGA press conference presented a thorough analysis of a recent 41-count racketeering indictment filed by Fani Willis who cited election related "crimes". VoterGA contends that no true crime is identified in the indictment because it misapplies law and misstates factual information throughout its 98 pages.

Examples of misapplied law and misstatements of factual information include:

Alleged false statements made about Georgia elections that are actually true;

Statements protected by free speech of the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution;

False criminalization of legitimate Georgia contingent elector activities;

False charges of computer crimes against those who exposed voting system failures;

False charges against those trying to protect potential witnesses of election crime;

Misapplication of racketeering, forgery and solicitation statutes to legal activities.

The press conference also identified evidence of potential election crimes in Fulton County that Fani Willis never investigated and kept hidden from the grand jury including:

Election bribery and interference;

Ballot trafficking;

Electronic vote tampering;

Falsification of audit documents.

VoterGA co-founder Garland Favorito stated: "This phony indictment presents a clear picture to Georgians of how a District Attorney can mislead a grand jury and suppress critical facts the jury needs to know for their decision-making process. Legislators must use their impeachment power to hold Fani Willis accountable for malicious prosecution. The General Assembly must also prohibit District Attorneys from having exclusive control of grand juries and restore the right of citizens to present facts to any grand jury in the state."

VoterGA is a non-partisan, 501(c)3 registered non-profit organization created by a coalition of citizens working to restore election integrity in Georgia. We advocate for independently verifiable, auditable, recount capable, transparent and tamper proof elections.

SOURCE VoterGA

CONTACT: Sheryl Sellaway, 404-273-5133, sheryl@righteouspragency.com
UJAR, Azerbaijan, August 29. A convoy of humanitarian aid sent by the Azerbaijan Red Crescent Society to people of Armenian origin living in Karabakh has reached the Ujar district, Trend reports.

A cargo with humanitarian aid (40 tons of flour products) was sent from Baku to Khankendi this morning.

The President of the Azerbaijan Red Crescent Society, Novruz Aslan said that in the future, other necessary goods may be delivered to residents of Armenian origin living in Karabakh.

The remnants of the separatist regime in Karabakh, led by the Armenian authorities, have long been trying in various ways to convince the world community and international organizations that Azerbaijan, by establishing a border crossing point on the Lachin road, is allegedly keeping the Armenian residents of Karabakh under "blockade", has created a "humanitarian crisis situation" for them, and that the Armenians are allegedly facing "food shortages". Armenia, which continues to manipulate the existence of an alleged "tense humanitarian situation" and "blockade" in the region, is hindering the peace process instead of following through on the agreements reached to resolve issues related to the use of the Lachin road and other alternative roads to meet the needs of the Armenian residents of the Karabakh region.

The Azerbaijani side once again demonstrates a humanistic approach and sends humanitarian aid to citizens of Armenian origin living in Karabakh.
Leading Senior Care Franchise Grows Coverage Area to Meet Increased Demand in Columbiana and Mahoning Counties

ROSEVILLE, Calif., Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Always Best Care Senior Services, one of the leading senior care franchise systems in the United States, announced today that franchisee Pamela Puorro has expanded her territory to meet the demand of the growing senior population in her community. Always Best Care of Columbiana and Mahoning Counties has been providing non-medical in-home care and assisted living referral services to the area since 2013. Now, Puorro has expanded her territory north and west to serve the communities of Niles, Warren, Cortland, Newton Falls, Girard, Ravenna and Alliance.

"This area has a high percentage of seniors and disabled residents who live alone with no family nearby," said Pamela Puorro. "I started building our Always Best Care team over a decade ago and have enjoyed making a difference in the lives of so many neighbors who need help with daily tasks and companionship. This opportunity to expand our service area means our caregivers can provide even more members of the community with the support they need."

A longtime resident of East Liverpool, Puorro earned a nursing degree from Kent State University and spent her registered nursing career in skilled nursing facilities and hospitals. It was during this time she became aware of the need for compassionate caregivers who can help seniors stay comfortable in their homes. Puorro opened Always Best Care of Columbiana and Mahoning Counties and began serving East Liverpool, Wellsville, Lisbon, Salem, East Palestine, Columbiana, Boardman, Austintown and Youngstown. She has built a successful local business, achieving double-digit growth year after year while pursuing her passion for helping people maintain a safe, independent and dignified lifestyle.

Always Best Care is one of the nation's leading providers of non-medical in-home care and assisted living referral services, with skilled home health care in limited markets. The company delivers its services through an international network of more than 225 independently owned and operated franchise territories throughout the United States and Canada. By working with case managers, social workers, discharge planners, doctors, and families, Always Best Care franchise owners provide affordable, comprehensive solutions that can be specifically matched to meet a client's particular physical or social needs.

Always Best Care of Columbiana and Mahoning Counties is located at 1324 St. Clair Ave. in East Liverpool. For additional information on services available, or for a free evaluation, call 330-385-5960 or visit alwaysbestcare.com/east-liverpool for more information.

About Always Best Care

Founded in 1996, Always Best Care Senior Services is based on the belief that having the right people for the right level of care means peace of mind for the client and family. Always Best Care has been assisting seniors with a wide range of conditions and personal needs for over 27 years and currently provides thousands of hours of care every year. Franchise opportunities are available to individuals interested in leveraging the company's clear strategy and proven track record for delivering affordable, dependable service to seniors in their local areas.

Always Best Care also offers exclusive programs such as Always in Touch, Balance Tracking System, remote patient monitoring and a 24/7 AI Virtual Care Agent. For more information regarding Always Best Care's solutions, visit www.alwaysbestcare.com.

CONTACT:

Nicole Hunnicutt

Fish Consulting

404-558-4108

[email protected]

SOURCE Always Best Care
FULTON, Mo., Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- America's National Churchill Museum (ANCM) at Westminster College announced today the acquisition of a historically significant oil painting, and the loan of two others, by Winston Churchill.

Firth of Forth

Firth of Forth, circa 1925, painted by former British Prime Minister Winston Churchill.

The former British Prime Minister, statesman, and talented artist painted Firth of Forth, circa 1925, in east Scotland, where the River Forth meets the North Sea.

The dramatic seascape depicting several World War I-era warships will be on view to the public beginning Sept. 1 in a newly installed exhibition, Winston Churchill: A Passion for Painting.

Firth of Forth is a significant addition to the Museum's collection because it captures Churchill's great knowledge of, and admiration for, the British Royal Navy during a time of great change. The work depicts several Acasta-class British destroyers and other capital warships that Churchill knew well from his time as the First Lord of the Admiralty in World War I.

"While counterintuitive considering his reputation as a wartime leader, it was unusual for Churchill to paint military subjects, which makes this canvas quite rare," explained Timothy Riley, the Museum's Sandra L. and Monroe E. Trout Director and Chief Curator. "In the mid-1920s, when the painting was created, the World War I-era ships depicted in the painting were in the process of being decommissioned and scheduled to be sold for scrap. Churchill paints them steaming into harbor as the sun sets in the background, a poignant and almost melancholy scene, signaling the end of an era."

The painting is on display in the Museum's Anson Cutts Gallery with six other Churchill canvases as part of the special exhibition Winston Churchill: A Passion for Painting.

Leaning Palm, Jamaica

Included in the exhibition are two newly installed Churchill paintings placed on extended loan: Leaning Palm, Jamaica, was painted in 1953 when Churchill visited the Caribbean island during his second term as Prime Minister.

A View of Miami at Sunset

The other newly installed painting  which since the 1960s has been titled Distant View of Venice and believed to be a view of the famous Italian city  will be shown under a new title: A View of Miami at Sunset.

The painting received its new name after artist and Churchill researcher Paul Rafferty discovered the perspective of the tranquil scene infused with brilliant shades of cerulean and gold are actually of the Miami skyline painted from Miami Beach at sunset.

"A number of Churchill's canvasses could be confused with Venice, Italy," Rafferty explained in an interview on Aug. 21. "Focusing my attention on the subtleties of this painting, I came to see Distant View of Venice was actually the Miami skyline at sunset."

The September exhibition at ANCM will mark the first time the painting has been on view to the public since Rafferty's discovery.

Churchill painted the seascape while visiting the Miami Beach home of Col. Frank W. Clarke at North Bay Road in Miami Beach in January and February of 1946, just weeks before the statesman traveled to Westminster College in Fulton, Missouri, to deliver his famous "Iron Curtain" speech on March 5, 1946.

"When viewed from across the street of Clarke's house, looking across Biscayne Bay, the actual location of the painting is revealed," Rafferty said.

On August 10, America's National Churchill Museum verified Rafferty's findings and captured contemporary photographs and video from the exact site where Churchill created the canvas in 1946.

"Paul Rafferty's discovery is remarkable," Riley said. "It is incredible to imagine Churchill painting this beautiful scene of the sun setting over Miami while thinking about the danger of an iron curtain descending across the continent of Europe, a warning he famously issued here at Westminster College shortly after he painted this picture.

"Winston Churchill was indeed a visionary for all seasons  a keen observer not only of the immediate horizon, but also of everything beyond."

Dedicated on Westminster College's campus in 1969 as a memorial to Churchill's iconic 1946 address, ANCM preserves and promotes the legacy of Winston Churchill through exhibitions, education programs, scholarly research, and collections. Winston Churchill: Passion for Painting will be open to the public beginning September 1 and is free with paid admission to the Museum.

Winston Churchill: Passion for Painting at America's National Churchill Museum in Fulton, Missouri

Aug. 31, 2023 : 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. - Museum Member and Media Preview (earlier interviews and showing for media are available upon request)

: - Museum Member and Media Preview (earlier interviews and showing for media are available upon request) Sept. 1, 2023 : Open to the Public

ABOUT WESTMINSTER COLLEGE: Founded in 1851 and home of Winston Churchill's "Iron Curtain" speech, Westminster College is ranked prestigiously by The Princeton Review as one of the "Best 150 colleges in the Midwest" for 2024. In 2023, the independent think tank Third Way singled out the small, private college as one of the nation's best among colleges and universities in the United States in terms of economic mobility and return on investment. New Westminster alumni experience a more than 90 percent placement rate in jobs or graduate school within six months of graduation. Additionally, U.S. News & World Report places Westminster in a unique category by itself, listing it as the only National Liberal Arts college in Missouri. Westminster has long been recognized for its focus on educating and inspiring students to make an impact on the world around them. Find out more about Westminster by visiting our website. To learn more about America's National Churchill Museum, go to NationalChurchillMuseum.org.

FOR THE MEDIA: Access this Dropbox link for photos and video for your free and clear use, courtesy of the ANCM. All images and video of Churchill artworks are copyrighted "Churchill Heritage, Ltd."

SOURCE Westminster College
Investment Underscores Company's Commitment to Employees, Community and Quality

HOUSTON, Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, Anheuser-Busch is announcing a $22.5 million investment in its Houston brewery, which includes upgrades to the facility's internal systems to enhance workplace safety and improve brewery efficiency. Anheuser-Busch has a long history of commitment to being a strong partner to the communities it calls home, and these upcoming local investments reflect the brewer's dedication to delivering the highest-quality beer and other beverages to consumers while driving economic prosperity around the country.

"Investing in our people and in our communities to drive economic prosperity is part of who we are," said Brendan Whitworth, CEO of Anheuser-Busch. "We're excited that this $22 million investment will improve the work environment for our frontline employees while also serving as an engine of economic growth for Houston and surrounding areas. We're proud to reinforce our decades-long dedication to our employees and communities through continued investments in our facilities across the country."

Anheuser-Busch has been a member of the Houston community for almost 60 years, and the brewer continues to reiterate its commitment through ongoing investments like this one. Last year, the brewer implemented water reuse technology at the Houston brewery to reclaim more than 100 million gallons of water each year. Building on this success with the addition of the most efficient cooling system will help the company continue to make great beer for all Americans to enjoy.

"The upgrade to our cooling system will enable us to stay at the forefront of brewery safety and efficiency standards," said Ryan Hudgins, General Manager, Anheuser-Busch Houston Brewery. "By transitioning to this new system, we not only have a positive impact on employees, but also conserve resources for the local Houston community."

The $22.5 million investment includes an upgrade to the Houston brewery's cooling system, improving workplace safety, and reducing electricity consumption by 2,180,000 kWh per year. To equip the brewery with a modern, highly efficient system, the existing cooling system will be completely removed and repositioned to ensure improved functionality. A free-standing structure will also be added to house the evaporative condensers. The Houston brewery's new cooling system will be fully operational by Q4 2023.

This investment builds on the success of the brewer's capital expenditure program, which included an investment of $1 billion over two years in 2021 to help accelerate the nation's recovery following the pandemic and drive economic prosperity in the communities where the brewer operates. Across the United States, Anheuser-Busch operates more than 120 facilities, including 12 flagship breweries, 14 agricultural facilities, and 19 craft partner breweries, across 24 states. In Texas, more than 1,000 people work in Anheuser-Busch's facilities and nearly 6,000 are a part of the larger Anheuser-Busch distributor family. Anheuser-Busch's work in Texas creates more than $1.4 billion in capital investments, significantly contributing to the state's economic growth.

For more on Anheuser-Busch's economic impact visit www.anheuser-busch.com/community/economic-impact or follow Anheuser-Busch on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.

ABOUT ANHEUSER-BUSCH

At Anheuser-Busch, our purpose is to create a future with more cheers. We are always looking to serve up new ways to meet life's moments, dream big to move our industry forward, and make a meaningful impact in the world. We hope to build a future that everyone can celebrate, and everyone can share. For more than 165 years, Anheuser-Busch has carried on a legacy of brewing great-tasting, high-quality beers that have satisfied beer drinkers for generations. Today, we own and operate more than 120 facilities, including breweries, wholesaler distribution centers, agricultural facilities and packaging plants, and have more than 18,000 colleagues across the United States.

We are home to several of America's most loved beer and beyond beer brands, including Michelob ULTRA, Cutwater Spirits, Stella Artois, Budweiser and Bud Light as well as a number of regional brands that provide beer drinkers with a choice of the best-tasting craft beers in the industry. From responsible drinking programs and emergency drinking water donations to industry-leading sustainability efforts, we are guided by our unwavering commitment to supporting the communities we call home. For more information, visit www.anheuser-busch.com or follow Anheuser-Busch on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.

SOURCE Anheuser-Busch
LOS ANGELES, Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Artist Eric Sanders is set to unveil his second solo show at renowned Los Angeles gallery Eastern Projects, curated by highly respected art critic Peter Frank. This solo show will showcase, for the first time, selections from Sanders' vast archive of digital drawings printed at a large scale on aluminum surfaces. Sanders' digital output boasts hundreds of images created in a wide variety of styles. From those, Frank has selected a cohesive group of eighteen abstract pieces. This group highlights Sanders' use of all-over composition, automatic mark-making, and exuberant color. The title "Electric Caterpillar" reflects Sanders' playful approach to this body of work.

About the exhibition, Sanders says, "These digital pieces are the most expansive aspect of my practice. The casual nature of the medium allows me to truly embrace play and variety. Through the speed of digital drawing, I'm able to tap into my subconscious and bring forth instinctive mark-making. I am grateful to Rigo Jimenez for continuing to believe in my work, and proud to have my second solo show at Eastern Projects."

Eric Sanders unveils 2nd solo show 'Electric Caterpillar' at LA's Eastern Projects. Curated by Peter Frank. Sep 1-30. Post this

The exhibition, which will be held at the highly regarded Eastern Projects, will feature eighteen of Sanders' digital works printed on aluminum surfaces. This solo exhibition will mark the first works shows of Sanders' vast archive of digital works.

"There's a sense of intensification, of amplification, that powers Eric Sanders' digital work. It's not that his other modalities lack this focused bravado, but few can match the turned-to-12 rasp of his digital painting. Figuratively and literally, they're live-wire  not just plugged-in or turned-on, but dyed and fried. This is some eye-banging stuff."

-Peter Frank

Art lovers, collectors, and cultural enthusiasts are invited to mark their calendars for September 9th from 6-8 for an opening celebration and September 29th 6-8 for a closing celebration. Both events will feature an open bar and a DJ. The show will run through September 30th.

About Eric Sanders:

Eric Sanders is an internationally acclaimed artist based in Manhattan Beach, California. Born and raised in Pennsylvania, Sanders learned to paint from his father, who was an accomplished amateur painter. He painted throughout his childhood and early adulthood, until he transitioned his focus to establishing and building a career as an entrepreneur. Eric Sanders has since established himself as an innovative and distinctive presence in L.A.'s vibrant contemporary art scene.

Sander's work has been exhibited in a variety of solo and group exhibitions, as well as numerous benefit auctions and art fairs, including such prestigious events as Miami's Art Basel and the LA Art Show.

Eric Sanders is represented in New York by Walter Wickiser Gallery, by Tag and Fabrik Gallery in Los Angeles, and by Katherine T. Carter & Associates in the Hudson Valley.

About Peter Frank:

Peter Frank is an American art critic, curator, and poet who lives and works in Los Angeles. Frank is known for curating shows at the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum in the 1970s and 1980s. He has worked curated for Documenta, the Venice Biennale, Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofia, and many other national and international venues. Frank contributes articles to numerous publications and has written many monographs and catalogs for one person and group exhibitions. He is a frequent contributor to The Huffington Post, Art in America, ARTnews, and Whitehot Magazine. He was a past editor of Visions Art Quarterly and art critic for The Village Voice and The SoHo Weekly News.

Social Links

Website https://www.studiosanders.com/

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/EricSandersArt/ Instagram @Eric_Sanders_art Tik Tok @eric_sanders_art

Media Contact

Denis Geary Lopez

[email protected]

SOURCE Eric Sanders
C2FO shapes inclusive sustainability road map for global economic growth

KANSAS CITY, Mo., Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ -- C2FO , the world's on-demand working capital platform, is proud to announce its collaboration with the Business 20 (B20) and inclusion in a major policy paper published at the 2023 B20 meeting in New Delhi, India. The B20 is the official dialogue forum between the global business community and the G20, the key forum for intergovernmental leaders around the globe. The paper addresses the challenges micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) face in accessing working capital and provides global leaders with actionable recommendations for achieving sustainability targets with inclusive long-term employment and economic growth.

This initiative was led by the vice-chair of the Business at OECD (BIAC) Finance Committee, Gianluca Riccio, CFA, with guidance from other leaders across the private and public sectors globally. This is the second consecutive year that a major policy paper from the B20 highlights C2FO's platform as a critical solution for the biggest challenges faced by MSMEs and the global economy.

"The importance of MSMEs to the global economy cannot be overstated, and it's incredibly important to see both the challenges and solutions being addressed in this global forum," said Alexander "Sandy" Kemper, C2FO's founder and CEO. "We work hand in hand with MSMEs, and increasingly with governments, around the world every day to address the need for working capital to drive economic growth and prosperity, and we've seen the power of solutions, like ours, that work. As the paper's recommendations are incorporated, the global economy will benefit."

The paper highlights several global studies that show the pivotal role working capital plays in fostering economic growth and job creation. A recent study from the Bank of Italy suggests that increasing working capital could lead to a boost of 0.5% to 0.7% in economic growth. Similarly, a 2022 McKinsey Global Institute study commissioned by C2FO found that Mexico could experience a 1.1% growth in its gross domestic product (GDP) by implementing a working capital platform on a national scale. According to an International Finance Corporation study, $1 million in funding to small and medium enterprises (SMEs) is connected to the creation of 16.3 permanent jobs on average.

C2FO's impact on MSMEs goes far beyond research, however. The tangible impact of working capital programs is evident through the $300 billion in funding C2FO has provided to businesses worldwide since its founding, a milestone it achieved in July 2023 . In the past three years, more than $25 billion of that low-cost working capital went to nearly 30,000 businesses in 41 countries categorized by the United Nations as "economies in transition."

"We are dedicated to solving the challenges MSMEs face in every country," said C2FO's head of India, Basant Kaur. "As a key demonstration of our National Platforms for Working Capital initiative, last year C2FO received approval from the Reserve Bank of India to become an official trade receivables discounting system (TReDS). Our customers and the nearly 200,000 suppliers on our platform in India know that when they partner with C2FO, they are working with a recognized global leader dedicated to creating opportunity for businesses."

In addition to C2FO's work with the B20, the company is an active member of the SME Finance Forum. As a member of this global network, C2FO engages in dialogue about policy changes to promote SME financing worldwide. Kemper will speak on Sept. 12 during the organization's premier conference in Mumbai, India, focusing on the role of digital platforms in SME financing.

C2FO remains committed to ensuring every business has access to the capital it needs to thrive. To learn more, visit c2fo.com .

About C2FO

C2FO is the world's on-demand working capital platform, providing fast, flexible and equitable access to low-cost capital to nearly 2 million businesses worldwide. Using patented Name Your Rate technology and a suite of working capital solutions, companies can get paid sooner by the world's largest enterprises  unlocking billions in risk-free capital. With a mission of ensuring that every business has the capital needed to thrive, C2FO has delivered more than $300 billion in funding around the world. Founded in 2008 and headquartered in Kansas City, USA, with offices around the globe, C2FO is working to build a better, more inclusive financial system every day. To learn more, visit C2FO.com .

Media Contact

Sara Makara

[email protected]

SOURCE C2FO
Soteria Battery Innovation Group and NAATBatt to host 2nd Annual LithiumSAFE Battery Safety Workshop

GREENVILLE, S.C., Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Soteria Battery Innovation Group and NAATBatt International announced they will host the second annual LithiumSAFE Battery Safety Workshop from October 17th  19th, 2023, in Greenville, South Carolina. The event will bring together top experts in the lithium-ion battery industry to catalyze discussions on the critical challenges and groundbreaking solutions in battery safety.

Lithium-ion batteries have revolutionized many industries, allowing mobile computing, electric vehicles and next-generation robotics controlled by artificial intelligence. However, safety concerns continue to plague the industry, hindering growth and in some cases causing property damage and injury. Damaged, misused, or imperfectly manufactured batteries can ignite or explode, and fear of these events is causing significant hesitation among those who would be responsible or affected by this outcome.

2nd Annual LithiumSAFE Battery Safety Workshop to convene industry experts to address challenges in battery safety. Post this

To mobilize the industry, Soteria and NAATBatt will hold a two-day conference at the Hyatt Regency Greenville to convene battery experts and professionals across the supply chain to foster an open dialogue about battery safety, solutions, testing, and certification that can be used to ensure public safety. The agenda will include panel discussions, technical speakers, company safety perspectives, and keynote speakers with networking sessions built into each day.

"The combination of expert panels answering difficult questions from the audience last year was magical," said Dr. Brian Morin, Co-founder, and CEO of Soteria Battery Innovation Group. "This year we are using the same format to address difficult topics like battery safety for micro mobility, safety in aerospace and defense, and a potential battery safety grading system."

"Lithium battery safety is a challenge," says Jim Greenberger, Executive Director of NAATBatt International. "But it is also an opportunity. Companies that can demonstrate a real, qualitative difference in their products' safety profile will be well-positioned to address increasing demands of regulators and consumers for safe lithium battery technology."

Cell manufacturers, material suppliers, OEMs, battery engineers, and other members of the battery supply chain are invited to attend the workshop. The early-bird registration fee ends tomorrow, 8/31 at midnight, so be sure to register soon to take advantage of these savings. Registration is open at https://www.lithiumsafe.net/events/lithium-safe-battery-safety-workshop-1-2.

About Soteria Battery Innovation Group, Inc.

Soteria is a lithium-ion battery safety platform that includes both a technology to eliminate battery fires and consortium to promote best practices for lithium-ion battery safety. Soteria's patented technology eliminates the root cause of thermal runaway by forming a fuse around internal short circuits and allowing cells to continue to function. Soteria's mission is to have inherently safe batteries everywhere, which Soteria believes will take a wholistic approach to safety, combining complementary safety technologies from many companies and strategies. Soteria's consortium has over 125 members including NASA, Mercedes, Bosch, Motorola, Lenovo and many more. Soteria was founded in 2017 by Dr. Brian Morin and is headquartered in Greenville, SC. For more information, please visit www.soteriabig.com.

Follow Soteria BIG

LinkedIn | YouTube | Twitter

Contact: Kelsey Cook

[email protected]

www.soteriabig.com

SOURCE Soteria Battery Innovation Group
Part of its global expansion strategy, Romanian Bobnet Group invites retail operators to join a 20M co-investment for its scalable disruptive automated retail chains

LONDON, Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Bobnet , Romanian supplier of retail innovation hardware and software solutions, a venture startup financed by NCH Capital operating in Europe since 2018, is actively seeking investor retail partners to fuel its international expansion and usher in a new standard of optimization and automation in the industry.

Bobnet Seeks Retail Partners to Pioneer its New Standard for Retail Process Optimization and Business Scalability

With a commitment to revolutionizing the retail landscape, Bobnet aims to collaborate with visionary partners who share the company's new standard for efficiency and customer experience, by inviting retail operators to join a 20M co-investment for its scalable disruptive automated retail chains.

Victor Popusoi, founder of Bobnet, stated, "Our mission is to redefine retail by merging technology and convenience. We are inviting retail partners who share our passion for innovation and our vision for a future where retail experiences are optimized and automation sets new benchmarks to join forces with us."

Bobnet's mission to revolutionize traditional retail into a modernized version is achieved through the company's networks of Automated Retail Devices, tailored for a wide array of retail sectors, enabling the creation of efficient and expansive retail chains.

By seamlessly integrating cutting-edge technology solutions within its powerful Chain Management System, Bobnet's ambitious roadmap encompasses varied SuperConvenience retail solutions, such as:

Food & Retail Transformation: Pioneering a new era in online and in-person shopping, Bobnet is introducing 3 million temperature-controlled and ambient delivery cell pairs, presenting customers with uncompromised convenience.

Pioneering a new era in online and in-person shopping, Bobnet is introducing 3 million temperature-controlled and ambient delivery cell pairs, presenting customers with uncompromised convenience. Pharmaceutical Retail 2.0: The evolution of pharmaceutical retail is imminent with Bobnet's vision for 100,000 automated pharmacies, equipped with state-of-the-art temperature control technology, poised to reshape accessibility, customer experience, and reliability within the pharmaceutical sector.

Bobnet's Eco-Friendly Car Energy Innovations: Bobnet's commitment to sustainability takes centre stage, as it introduces 100,000 green autonomous automated car battery swap hubs.

Bobnet's Tire Storage Innovation: Seizing an opportunity in Europe's tire market, Bobnet's 100,000 automated tire hotels are set to revolutionize tire storage and distribution.

Bobnet's Revolutionizing Electronics Commerce: The future of electronics commerce unfolds with Bobnet's proposal of 50,000 automated electronics shops.

Bobnet's Automated Dining Experience: Bobnet's visionary approach extends to 10,000 automated catering units and restaurants.

Bobnet's Niche Retail Automation: Specialized retail chains dedicated to cosmetics and accessories offer discerning consumers tailored experiences within niche markets.

Moreover, Bobnet offers AI and BI Powered Management Systems, including the cutting-edge Chain Management System (Chain MS) and the user-friendly Simplified Warehouse Management System (Simplified Warehouse MS). These innovative solutions facilitate a comprehensive end-to-end business management with minimal human intervention. The revolutionary platform encompasses fully automated sales processes and optimizes logistics through the Digitally Guided Management System (Digitally Guided MS), effectively amplifying operational productivity and efficiency.

By adopting Bobnet's technology for the retail of the future, companies can expand their sales channels with the help of innovative IoT devices, which help maintain operational presence 24/7, increase sales based on customer data insights, all while reducing significant operational costs.

About Bobnet:

Bobnet, a venture startup financed by NCH Capital, is an industry leader in retail optimization and automation, disrupting the market through innovative technologies created to automate the commercialization and logistics process, in order to offer customers the fastest access to food and grocery goods.

Bobnet is inviting prospective co-investor retail partners to join hands in this transformative journey, contributing to the development of next-generation retail solutions that resonate with the demands of today's dynamic market. For inquiries regarding investment opportunities and partnership details, please contact: [email protected].

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2196592/Bobnet.jpg

SOURCE Bobnet Group
CEO James Bogart named top Next-Gen Wealth Advisor in Virginia, plus named a finalist in ThinkAdvisor Luminaries Awards

MCLEAN, Va., Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Bogart Wealth, an award-winning, independent wealth management and Registered Investment Advisory firm, was named to multiple lists of top financial advisors and fastest-growing companies in national and industry publications over the past couple months.

CEO James Bogart was named Forbes' top Next-Gen Wealth Advisor in Virginia in the 2023 list of Best-In-State Next-Gen Wealth Advisors, coming in at #33 overall in the 2023 list of America's Top Next-Gen Wealth Advisors. Bogart was also named a 2023 ThinkAdvisor Luminaries finalist for Executive Leadership among RIA firms.

CEO James Bogart was named Forbes' top Next-Gen Wealth Advisor in Virginia for 2023. Post this

In addition, Bogart Wealth ranked #3,547 overall in the 2023 Inc. 5000, Inc. Magazine's annual ranking of America's fastest-growing private companies, and landed eighth overall in the Washington Business Journal's rankings of the largest wealth management firms in greater Washington D.C. The firm also was listed in Financial Advisor Magazine's 2023 RIA Rankings, ranking #192 on the nationwide list of largest RIAs, as well as #25 in the publication's list of the Fastest Growing RIA Firms.

"We are so excited to be included in all of these rankings and earn these awards from such prominent media outlets," said James Bogart, President and CEO of Bogart Wealth. "Our firm has been experiencing much growth and success the past few years, and I'm so proud of our team. Without them, these recognitions wouldn't be possible."

FORBES RANKINGS REPRESENT TRUE ROLE MODELS OF THE INDUSTRY

The Forbes Next-Gen Wealth Advisors rankings, developed by SHOOK Research, is based on an algorithm of qualitative criterion  mostly gained through telephone and in-person due diligence interviews  and quantitative data. Those advisors that are considered have a minimum of four years' experience, and the algorithm weighs factors like revenue trends, assets under management, compliance records, industry experience and those that encompass the highest standards of best practices. Portfolio performance is not a criterion due to varying client objectives and lack of audited data. Neither Forbes nor SHOOK receive a fee in exchange for rankings. To learn more about Forbes' Next-Gen Wealth Advisors ranking methodology, please click here.

"Our rankings represent the true role models of the industry," said R.J. Shook, Founder and President of SHOOK Research. "We believe our Top Next-Gen Wealth Advisor rankings are an early peek of our future Top Wealth Advisor rankings."

In fact, James Bogart has already been included in Forbes' Top Wealth Advisor rankings in recent years. In Forbes' 2023 Best-In-State Wealth Advisor rankings, Bogart ranked #5 overall in the state of Virginia. This is his sixth year in a row being listed as a Top Advisor in Forbes, being named a Top Next-Gen Wealth Advisor since 2018 and a Best-In-State Wealth Advisor since 2019.

To see Forbes' full list of Top Next-Gen Wealth Advisors, please click here. To see James Bogart's Forbes Top Advisor profile, including rankings in other Top Advisor lists, please click here.

BOGART WEALTH RANKED IN INC. 5000 FOR THIRD CONSECUTIVE YEAR

For the third consecutive year, Bogart Wealth was included in the Inc. 5000 list, Inc. Magazine's annual ranking of America's fastest-growing private companies. In the 2023 rankings, the firm was ranked #3,547, climbing over 600 spots from their ranking of #4,192 in the 2022 list.

Bogart Wealth made the list thanks to their 139% 3-year revenue growth from 2020-2022. The firm continues to experience rapid growth in all facets of the company and has more than doubled assets under management in the past three years. Bogart Wealth has also been growing and expanding their team, hiring 20 new employees during this time.

To see Bogart Wealth's Inc. 5000 profile along with the full 2023 rankings, please click here. To learn more about the methodology and verification process for the Inc. 5000 list, please click here.

BOGART WEALTH NAMED TOP ADVISORY FIRM BY FINANCIAL ADVISOR MAGAZINE

Bogart Wealth was recently listed in Financial Advisor Magazine's 2023 RIA Survey and Ranking, listing the top 521 Registered Investment Advisory firms in the U.S. by assets under management (AUM). Bogart Wealth ranked #192 in the list of largest RIAs (up 50 spots from the 2022 rankings), with year-end 2022 assets totaling nearly $2.3B. Bogart Wealth also ranked #25 in their list of the Top 50 Fastest Growing RIA Firms (up 9 spots from last year), with 18.55% growth in assets from 2021 to 2022. Bogart Wealth has been included in the Financial Advisor RIA rankings every year since 2019.

Rankings are compiled by AUM, and discretionary and nondiscretionary AUM are sourced from the firms' Form ADVs. To see Financial Advisor Magazine's full RIA rankings, as well as the full list of the fastest growing firms, please click here.

CEO JAMES BOGART NAMED FINALIST IN THINKADVISOR LUMINARIES AWARDS

In the 2023 ThinkAdvisor Luminaries Awards, James Bogart was named a finalist for Executive Leadership among RIA firms, thanks to the tremendous growth and success that Bogart Wealth has experienced in 2022 and 2023, in addition to launching Advisor Growth Track.

The Luminaries shine a spotlight on individuals and firms that are taking the most creative and boldest steps to push the investment advisory industry forward, while having the biggest impact. All finalists and winners are selected by a distinguished and diverse panel of judges from across the financial advice industry, as well as by the ThinkAdvisor editorial team. The 2023 Luminaries program will culminate at the 3rd Annual ThinkAdvisor Luminaries Awards Dinner held in New York City on November 28th.

To see the full list of finalists and to learn more about the 2023 ThinkAdvisor Luminaries, as well as the Awards Dinner, please click here.

BOGART WEALTH INCLUDED IN WASHINGTON BUSINESS JOURNAL'S LIST OF LARGEST WEALTH MANAGEMENT FIRMS

Bogart Wealth was included in the Washington Business Journal's list of the Largest Wealth Management Firms in Greater Washington D.C., coming in at #8 in the 2023 rankings. Bogart Wealth is headquartered in McLean, Virginia, just outside of Washington D.C., and D.C. area wealth management firms were ranked by 'Metro-area financial planners'. Based on statistics from 2022, Bogart Wealth had 8 metro-area financial planners and 25 metro-area employees. As of August 2023, the firm has 15 Certified Financial Planners and 32 total employees on staff.

As the firm continues to grow, they are actively hiring financial advisors and support staff. Open positions in the McLean, Virginia office include Financial Planner, Financial Advisor, and Marketing Manager, and open positions in The Woodlands, Texas office include Financial Advisor and Associate Financial Advisor.

Both locations are also hiring for the firm's Advisor Growth Track program, a professional growth and training program for both emerging talent and experienced financial advisors that takes place in conjunction with employment at Bogart Wealth, where employees work all the stations and gain expertise in all aspects of holistic financial planning. To learn more about the open positions and careers at Bogart Wealth, please click here. To learn more about all of the employee benefits at Bogart Wealth, please click here.

To see the full rankings of the Largest Wealth Management Firms in Greater Washington D.C. in the Washington Business Journal, please click here. Data for this list was collected from the companies and compiled by full time researchers in The Business Journals newsrooms, and information is generally gathered through direct outreach with the businesses. For more information, please click here.

BOGART WEALTH INTRODUCES NEW TEAM MEMBERS

Bogart Wealth also recently announced the additions of four new team members:

Suzanne Kellogg, IACCP, Compliance Officer, assists the firm in meeting its regulatory obligations. She brings 19 years of industry experience to Bogart Wealth, with 15 years focused on investment advisory compliance programs.

Brendon Dashiell, CFA, Senior Portfolio Analyst, has over 9 years of experience in various investment management related roles. Prior to joining Bogart Wealth, Brendon worked as a Fixed Income Trader and Assistant Portfolio Manager at an institutional investment management firm and as an Investment Consultant specializing in portfolio construction at Wells Fargo.

Luke Leonard and Nate Vandemeulebroecke are both participating in the Advisor Growth Track program and working as Client Service Associates after graduating from the Financial Planning program at Virginia Tech.

ABOUT BOGART WEALTH

Bogart Wealth is an independent, fee-only wealth management firm guiding corporate executives, professionals, and families on their paths to and throughout retirement. Led by President and CEO James Bogart, their mission is to help clients achieve financial peace of mind by preserving and maximizing intergenerational wealth. As a Registered Investment Advisor (RIA), Bogart Wealth is held to a fiduciary standard, which gives clients confidence in knowing that everything the firm does is always in their best interest. Clients of Bogart Wealth enjoy an extremely high level of service, and the firm's boutique size enables multiple advisors to become familiar with each client and their financial plan. At Bogart Wealth, everyone is a part of the team, and they have taken great care to build a collegial and cooperative culture, as well as a diverse set of skills, experience, qualifications, and credentials. The team works together to apply their combined experience, expertise, and knowledge to each client account. To learn more, visit www.BogartWealth.com.

IMPORTANT DISCLOSURE INFORMATION

Please Note: Limitations. Neither rankings nor recognitions by unaffiliated rating services, publications, media, or other organizations, nor the achievement of any professional designation, certification, degree, or license, membership in any professional organization, or any amount of prior experience or success, should be construed by a client or prospective client as a guarantee that the client will experience a certain level of results if Bogart Wealth is engaged, or continues to be engaged, to provide investment advisory services. A fee was not paid by Bogart Wealth to receive the ranking. The ranking is based upon specific criteria and methodology (see ranking criteria/methodology). No ranking or recognition should be construed as an endorsement by any past or current client of Bogart Wealth.

Registration of Bogart Wealth as an investment adviser does not imply any level of skill or training. A copy of Bogart Wealth's current written disclosure Brochure discussing our advisory services and fees is available for review upon request or at www.BogartWealth.com.

Media Contact:

Jonny Swift

Impact Communications, Inc.

913-649-5009

[email protected]

SOURCE Bogart Wealth
National life insurer's vice president honored with appointment to industry organization's program

CANTON, Mass., Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Boston Mutual Life Insurance Company, a national provider of insurance solutions for individuals and at the workplace, is pleased to announce that Christine Williams, Vice President - Chief Compliance, Privacy, and Anti-Money Laundering Officer, has been selected to participate in the American Council of Life Insurers' (ACLI) Rising Leader program. Through the program, participants will develop their knowledge of the work the industry does through ACLI to help more families and individuals build greater financial certainty through all stages of life.

Christine Williams, Vice President - Chief Compliance, Privacy, and Anti-Money Laundering Officer at Boston Mutual Life Insurance Company, has been selected to participate in the American Council of Life Insurers (ACLI) Rising Leader program.

"We are proud of Christine for being selected to participate in ACLI's Rising Leader program," said Paul A. Quaranto, Jr., Chairman, Chief Executive Officer, and President at Boston Mutual Life Insurance Company. "She is a great team member at Boston Mutual, and her experience and expertise will play an important part in the program as she works alongside her fellow nominated peers to move the life insurance industry forward."

ACLI is the leading trade association driving public policy and advocacy on behalf of the life insurance industry and the 90 million American families who rely on life insurers for financial protection and retirement security. In addition to leadership and professional development, participants in the Rising Leader program will learn from government relations and public affairs experts how to build consensus and support for policies that help all Americans achieve financial and retirement security.

The program officially begins at the ACLI Annual Conference in September and culminates with a graduation ceremony at the Annual Conference the following year.

"We would like to thank ACLI for this opportunity and wish Christine and all Rising Leaders the best of luck for a successful program," said Mr. Quaranto.

Learn more about the Rising Leader Program here. To learn more about Boston Mutual Life Insurance Company, please visit https://www.bostonmutual.com/.

About Boston Mutual Life Insurance Company

Founded as a progressive life insurance company in 1891, Boston Mutual Life Insurance Company is a national carrier that provides insurance solutions designed for working Americans and their families, as well as enrollment and billing options at the workplace. With offices based in Canton, Massachusetts, and Omaha, Nebraska, as a mutual company, Boston Mutual Life is dedicated to acting in the best interests of its policyholders, producers, employees, and its communities. For more information, please visit www.bostonmutual.com or contact your Boston Mutual Life representative. Follow the company on Facebook (/BostonMutualLifeIns) or LinkedIn (/company/boston-mutual-life-insurance).

Media Contacts

Meredith D'Agostino

Boston Mutual Life Insurance Company

[email protected]

(800) 669-2668 x276

Boston Mutual Life News Desk:

[email protected]

SOURCE Boston Mutual Life Insurance Company
Company Focused on the Production of Clean Renewable Energy for Tribal Communities & Beyond

MINNEAPOLIS, Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Brown Venture Group LLC , a Black-owned venture capital firm formed to fund Indigenous, Black, and Latinx technology entrepreneurs, has committed significant financial resources to foster the growth of Big Navajo Energy, which is a Navajo-owned and operated company focused on the development and deployment of clean and renewable energy solutions for tribal and rural communities.

"Big Navajo Energy has spent the past decade bringing clean energy solutions to tribal communities throughout North America and this investment by Brown Venture Group will assist us in continuing to build that self-sufficient ecosystem in order to address energy challenges faced not only by our communities but by rural areas overall," said Dory Peters, president and CEO of Big Navajo Energy. Post this Dr. Paul Campbell co-founder and managing partner of Brown Venture Group, Derrick Watchman, chairman of the National Center of American Indian Enterprise Development, Dory Peters, president and CEO of Big Navajo Energy, and Chris Dykstra, partner at Brown Venture Group in front of the Fuel Cell Hydrogen Energy Plant in Long Beach California.

Big Navajo Energy , which was founded in 2012, is currently expanding its ability to capture and produce hydrogen from sustainable natural resources on native lands which they will then transport to its customers on and off tribal land and rural communities as an alternative clean fuel of our future.

"Big Navajo Energy has spent the past decade bringing clean energy solutions to tribal communities throughout North America and this investment by Brown Venture Group will assist us in continuing to build that self-sufficient ecosystem in order to address energy challenges faced not only by our communities but by rural areas overall," said Dory Peters, president and CEO of Big Navajo Energy.

Since launching in 2018, Brown Venture Group has forged important inclusive collaborations with tribal governments nationwide, NASA, and the United States Patent and Trademark Office (a partnership driven by the Pro Bono Advisory Council). In addition, the venture capital fund has invested in more than 30 technology startups in various industries including clean energy, fintech, health, tech, and software.

"Indigenous nations are one of the most underfunded communities with the most upside potential of any group of contributors in America and Brown Venture Group is excited to support the innovations of Big Navajo Energy," said Paul Campbell, co-founder and managing partner of Brown Venture Group.

According to a recent Olin Brookings Commission report, in 2021, a mere 0.013% of venture dollars were directed to Native Americans, even though they represent 2.09% of the population (Crunchbase, n.d.).

"While venture capital investment in minority communities remains small, it is practically nonexistent in tribal communities," said Campbell. "This is not because there are not good deals in Indian Country. It is because most non-diverse investors lack the relational networks into Tribal communities, and therefore, miss out on differentiated deal flow that is often found in diverse-led innovative businesses."

About Brown Venture Group

Launched in 2018, Brown Venture Group, LLC, is a venture capital firm exclusively for Black, Latinx, and Indigenous technology startups. Brown Venture Group is writing a new playbook for those interested in launching a minority-owned technology startup and those interested in investing in new technologies. For more information go to brownventuregroup.com.

SOURCE Brown Venture Group
BAKU, Azerbaijan, August 29. Armenia's and its supporters' games in the "humanitarian crisis" and "blockade" are absolutely collapsing. The Azerbaijani state is combating misleading Armenian propaganda and bringing the truth to the world's attention on all international forums, Colonel Azer Garayev, a veteran of security bodies and honorary employee of the State Security Service, told Trend.

According to him, despite Azerbaijan's humanistic stance, Armenia and separatists try to hinder the peace process every time.

"The dissemination of false information about the purported "humanitarian crisis" and "deplorable situation" in Khankendi was another act of provocation by Armenia. This time, Armenia, which has always tried to present a "miserable" front, relied on the support of its backers, other governments. Even nevertheless, these efforts were unsuccessful. Despite Macron's efforts to assist Armenians in many ways and his transformation into a weapon in the hands of the Armenian Diaspora in France, all provocations have been successfully put an end to thanks to Azerbaijan's wise foreign policy," Garayev said.

Another humanistic strategy, he continued, is the Azerbaijan Red Crescent Society's shipment of 40 tons of flour goods to Karabakh residents of Armenian descent. They should accept this humanitarian aid if they are considering peaceful coexistence and absorption into Azerbaijan. The Azerbaijani side has frequently made pleas with humanistic objectives and displayed a humanistic perspective in its official pronouncements.

"Yesterday, those Armenians who disrespected the Azerbaijani flag and were apprehended at the border received a surprisingly humane punishment. With consideration for the accused's age and true admission of guilt, the criminal case against them was closed using the humanist principle in compliance with the legal requirements of the criminal procedure code. The defendants were ordered by the court to spend the next 10 days in administrative custody. All of this demonstrates Baku's comparatively forbearing and compassionate attitude toward the Armenians who reside in Karabakh. They, in turn, should also realize that if they want to live under the Azerbaijani flag in a peaceful environment, they must accept the laws of Azerbaijan. Otherwise, they, having made another choice, can leave the territory of Azerbaijan," he said.
CAE to deploy and operate a B737 MAX simulator for Batik Air in Kuala Lumpur





Batik Air to adopt CAE Rise data-driven training system to enhance learning experience

SINGAPORE, Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ - (NYSE: CAE) (TSX: CAE) Global aviation training leader, CAE, today announced at the Asia Pacific Airline Training Symposium (APATS) that it has secured a 10-year pilot training agreement with Batik Air. CAE will deploy and operate an advanced B737 MAX full-flight simulator at Batik Air's facility in Kuala Lumpur, ensuring a world-class training experience for the airline's pilots.

In addition, Batik Air will adopt the use of CAE Rise, CAE's data-driven training system which leverages advanced analytics to deliver more effective training and enhance operational safety.

"We are proud to appoint CAE as our training partner and we are confident that this partnership with CAE will further enhance our pilot training and standards," said Group Strategy Director of Batik Air and Lion Air Group, Datuk Chandran Rama Muthy. "The CAE B737 MAX simulator will enable our pilots to have real-time handling aircraft experience during the training, which in turn will ensure that our pilots possess the skills and assurance to navigate the skies with confidence."

"We are thrilled to enter into this 10-year pilot training agreement with Batik Air," said Michel Azar-Hmouda, CAE's Vice President, Commercial Aviation Training. "With CAE Rise, Batik Air pilots will benefit from an industry-leading solution that will elevate their training experience in the simulator and sharpen their skills in the flight deck."

This milestone agreement solidifies the long-term relationship between CAE and Batik Air, underscoring their unwavering commitment to fostering the development of highly skilled pilots. In its recently released 2023 Aviation Talent Forecast, CAE projected a substantial need for aviation professionals in various sectors. Airlines are projected to require 252,000 pilots, 328,000 maintenance technicians, and 599,000 cabin crew members over the next decade.

A photo is available at CAE's Multimedia Centre.

About Batik Air Malaysia

Batik Air (formerly operated as Malindo Air) is a Malaysian-based airline with headquarters in Petaling Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia. Malindo Air officially rebranded as Batik Air in April 2022, in line with the Lion Group's goal to establish a common identity for full-service airlines within the group. Batik Air operates from the Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) and the Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport (SZB, Subang SkyPark Airport). The carrier currently operates a fleet of A330  300, B737-8, B737-800 and ATR72-600 aircraft for domestic and international flights.

About CAE

At CAE, we equip people in critical roles with the expertise and solutions to create a safer world. As a technology company, we digitalize the physical world, deploying software-based simulation training and critical operations support solutions. Above all else, we empower pilots, cabin crew, airlines, defence and security forces and healthcare practitioners to perform at their best every day and when the stakes are the highest. Around the globe, we're everywhere customers need us to be with more than 13,000 employees in approximately 250 sites and training locations in over 40 countries. CAE represents more than 75 years of industry firststhe highest-fidelity flight, mission and medical simulators and training programs powered by digital technologies. We embed sustainability in everything we do. Today and tomorrow, we'll make sure our customers are ready for the moments that matter.

Read our FY23 Global Annual Activity and Sustainability Report.

Follow us on

Twitter: @CAE_Inc

Facebook: www.facebook.com/cae.inc

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/cae

#CAE #CAEpilot

Contacts

General Media:

Samantha Golinski, Vice President, Public Affairs & Global Communications

+1-514-340-7939, ext. 7939, [email protected]

Trade Media:

Jessica Shergill, Director, Integrated Marketing and New Adjacencies

+1-514-341-2000, ext. 6944, [email protected]

Investor Relations:

Andrew Arnovitz, Senior Vice President, Investor Relations and Enterprise Risk Management,

+1-514-734-5760, [email protected]

SOURCE CAE INC.
MEXICO CITY, Aug. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Comision Federal de Electricidad ("CFE", the "Company" or "us"), a productive state enterprise of the Federal Government of the United Mexican States ("Mexico") announced today that it commenced a tender offer (the "Offer") to purchase for cash its 4.875% Notes due 2024 (the "2024 Notes), 4.75% Notes due 2027 (the "2027 Notes"), 6.125% Notes due 2045 (the "2045 Notes") and 5.750% Notes due 2042 (the "2042 Notes" and, together with the 2024 Notes, the 2027 Notes, and the 2045 Notes, the "Notes") for an aggregate purchase price, excluding accrued and unpaid interest ("Aggregate Purchase Price"), of up to US$1,000,000,000 (the "Maximum Consideration"), upon the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in the offer to purchase dated August 28, 2023 (as it may be amended or supplemented from time to time, the "Offer to Purchase") and subject to (1) the acceptance priority level of each series of Notes (the "Acceptance Priority Level") and (2) possible proration, each as described herein and in the Offer to Purchase.

The following table sets forth certain information relating to the Offer:

Title of Security CUSIPs ISINs Principal Amount

Outstanding Early Tender

Premium(1)(2) Reference U.S. Treasury Security Bloomberg

Reference

Page Fixed Spread

(basis points)(3) Acceptance

Priority Level 4.875% Notes due 2024 200447 AD2;

P30179 AM0 US200447AD28;

USP30179AM09 US$869,688,000 US$50.00 0.125% due January 15, 2024 FIT3 +0 1 4.750% Notes due 2027 200447 AF7; P29595 AB4 US200447AF75;

USP29595AB42 US$814,968,000 US$50.00 4.125% due July 31, 2028 FIT1 +120 2 6.125% Notes due 2045 200447 AE0; P30179 AR9 US200447AE01; USP30179AR95 US$618,308,000 US$50.00 4.375% due August 15, 2043 FIT1 +280 3 5.750% Notes due 2042 200447 AC4; P30179 AK4 US200447AC45; USP30179AK43 US$563,710,000 US$50.00 4.375% due August 15, 2043 FIT1 +265 4

(1) Per each US$1,000 principal amount of Notes. Holders who validly tender Notes and whose Notes are accepted for purchase will also receive accrued and unpaid interest ("Accrued Interest") up to, but excluding, the applicable Settlement Date (as defined herein). CFE has agreed, subject to specified exceptions and limitations, to pay additional interest to participants in the Offer to cover Mexican withholding taxes on interest payments.

(2) Holders who validly tender Notes on or prior to the Early Tender Date (as defined below) will be eligible to receive the Early Tender Consideration (as defined below), which includes the applicable early tender premium for each series of Notes specified in the table above (the "Early Tender Premium"). Holders who validly tender Notes after the Early Tender Date, but at or prior to the Expiration Date (as defined below), will be eligible to receive a tender consideration equal to the Early Tender Consideration minus the applicable Early Tender Premium (the "Late Tender Consideration").

(3) The tender consideration payable per each US$1,000 principal amount of each series of Notes validly tendered and not validly withdrawn on or prior to the Early Tender Date (the "Early Tender Consideration") will be determined in accordance with standard market practice, as described in the Offer to Purchase, to result in a price that equates to a yield to the maturity date in accordance with the formula set forth in Annex A to the Offer to Purchase, for the applicable series of Notes, equal to the sum of (i) the yield corresponding to the bid side price of the applicable Reference U.S. Treasury Security (as defined below) for such series of Notes at 10:00 a.m. (New York City time) on September 12, 2023, unless extended by CFE in its sole discretion (such date and time, as the same may be extended, the "Price Determination Date") quoted on the applicable Bloomberg reference page plus (ii) the applicable fixed spread specified in the table above (the "Fixed Spread") for such series of Notes; provided, that the Early Tender Consideration for the 2024 Notes will not exceed a price of US$1,000 per each US$1,000 principal amount of the 2024 Notes validly tendered and not validly withdrawn on or prior to the Early Tender Date.

Early Tender Consideration and Late Tender Consideration

Holders who validly tender their Notes on or prior to 5:00 p.m. (New York City time) on September 11, 2023 (the "Early Tender Date") and do not validly withdraw their Notes on or prior to 5:00 p.m. (New York City time) on September 11, 2023 (the "Withdrawal Date") will be eligible to receive the applicable Early Tender Consideration. The applicable Early Tender Consideration includes the applicable Early Tender Premium. Accrued Interest will be payable, in cash, in addition to the Early Tender Consideration.

Holders who validly tender their Notes after the Early Tender Date but on or prior to 5:00 p.m. on September 26, 2023 (the "Expiration Date") will be eligible to receive the applicable Late Tender Consideration, which will be equal to the applicable Early Tender Consideration minus the applicable Early Tender Premium. Accrued Interest will be payable, in cash, in addition to the Late Tender Consideration.

CFE has agreed, subject to specified exceptions and limitations, to pay additional interest to participants in the Offer to cover Mexican withholding taxes on interest payments (including gains treated as interest with respect to the sale of the Notes tendered in the Offer and the applicable Accrued Interest), such that the amount received by such holders after deduction of the withholding tax on interest payments (including gains treated as interest with respect to the sale of the Notes tendered in the Offer and the applicable Accrued Interest) will equal the Early Tender Consideration or Late Tender Consideration, as applicable, and the Accrued Interest.

Determination of Consideration

The Early Tender Consideration payable by CFE for each US$1,000 principal amount of each series of Notes validly tendered at or prior to the Early Tender Date and accepted by us pursuant to the Offer, will be calculated in accordance with standard market practice, as described in the Offer to Purchase, using the applicable yield to maturity (the "Offer Yield"), which will be equal to the sum of:

the yield (the " Reference Yield "), as calculated by the Dealer Managers (as defined below), that equates to the bid-side price of the applicable Reference U.S. Treasury Security specified on the table above for such series of Notes at the Price Determination Date quoted on the applicable Bloomberg reference page (or any other recognized quotation source selected by the Dealer Managers in their sole discretion if such quotation report is not available or is manifestly erroneous), plus





"), as calculated by the Dealer Managers (as defined below), that equates to the bid-side price of the applicable Reference U.S. Treasury Security specified on the table above for such series of Notes at the Price Determination Date quoted on the applicable Bloomberg reference page (or any other recognized quotation source selected by the Dealer Managers in their sole discretion if such quotation report is not available or is manifestly erroneous), the applicable Fixed Spread specified on the table above for such series of Notes;

provided, that the Early Tender Consideration for the 2024 Notes will not exceed a price of 100%.

Accordingly, the applicable Early Tender Consideration (which includes the applicable Early Tender Premium) payable by us for each US$1,000 principal amount of each series of Notes accepted by us will equal:

the present value on the Early Settlement Date or, if there is no Early Settlement Date with respect to such series of Notes, the Final Settlement Date, as determined at the Price Determination Date, of US$1,000 principal amount of such series of Notes due on the maturity date of such Notes and all scheduled interest payments on such principal amount of Notes to be made from (but excluding) the applicable Settlement Date, up to and including such maturity date, discounted to the applicable Settlement Date in accordance with standard market practice as described by the formula set forth in Annex A to the Offer to Purchase, at a discount rate equal to the applicable Offer Yield; provided , that if such calculation would equal a price of more than US$1,000 per each US$1,000 principal amount of the 2024 Notes, the Early Tender Consideration for each US$1,000 principal amount of 2024 Notes shall equal US$1,000 , minus





principal amount of such series of Notes due on the maturity date of such Notes and all scheduled interest payments on such principal amount of Notes to be made from (but excluding) the applicable Settlement Date, up to and including such maturity date, discounted to the applicable Settlement Date in accordance with standard market practice as described by the formula set forth in Annex A to the Offer to Purchase, at a discount rate equal to the applicable Offer Yield; , that if such calculation would equal a price of more than per each principal amount of the 2024 Notes, the Early Tender Consideration for each principal amount of 2024 Notes shall equal , the applicable Accrued Interest per US$1,000 principal amount of such Notes, such price being rounded to the nearest cent per US$1,000 principal amount of such Notes.

The Late Tender Consideration payable by us for each US$1,000 principal amount of each series of Notes validly tendered and accepted by us, will be equal to the applicable Early Tender Consideration for such series of Notes minus the Early Tender Premium for such series of Notes.

Promptly after the Price Determination Date, CFE will issue a press release specifying the Offer Yield and Early Tender Consideration for each series of Notes.

Early Settlement and Final Settlement

Following the Early Tender Date and prior to the Expiration Date, CFE may, but is not required to, accept the Notes validly tendered at or prior to the Early Tender Date (the "Early Settlement Right"), provided that all conditions set forth in the Offer to Purchase have been satisfied or waived by CFE (the date of such acceptance, the "Early Acceptance Date"). Notes accepted on an Early Acceptance Date, if any, will be settled promptly thereafter, currently expected to be on or about the third business day following the Early Tender Date (the "Early Settlement Date"). The "Final Settlement Date" is the date that CFE settles all Notes not previously settled on the Early Settlement Date, if any, and CFE expects such date to be promptly following the Expiration Date, but in any case on or prior to the second business day following the Expiration Date (any references to "Settlement Date" are to each of the Early Settlement Date and the Final Settlement Date as context may require).

Subject to applicable law, the Offer may be amended, extended or terminated. If CFE determines, in its sole discretion, to extend the Offer beyond the Expiration Date, there will be a new Final Settlement Date. During any extension of the Offer, all Notes previously tendered and not accepted for purchase pursuant to the Offer will remain subject to the Offer and may, subject to the terms and conditions of the Offer, be accepted for purchase by us. No extension of either the Early Tender Date or the Expiration Date will require the extension of withdrawal rights, unless required by applicable law.

Maximum Consideration; Acceptance Priority Procedures

Subject to the terms and conditions set forth in the Offer to Purchase CFE, is offering to purchase its outstanding Notes for cash for an Aggregate Purchase Price up to the Maximum Consideration.

CFE expressly reserves its right, but is not required, to increase the Maximum Consideration in its sole discretion, without extending the Withdrawal Date, the Early Tender Date, the Expiration Date or any Settlement Date or otherwise reinstating withdrawal rights.

Subject to the satisfaction or waiver of the conditions of the Offer, the Notes will be purchased in accordance with their Acceptance Priority Level pursuant to the following acceptance priority procedures:

first , if the Aggregate Purchase Price of all Notes validly tendered at or prior to the Early Tender Date by holders does not exceed the Maximum Consideration, then CFE will accept all such Notes validly tendered. However, if the Aggregate Purchase Price of all Notes validly tendered at or prior to the Early Tender Date by holders exceeds the Maximum Consideration, then CFE will (i) accept for purchase all validly tendered Notes of each series starting at the highest Acceptance Priority Level (level 1) and moving sequentially to Notes of each series having a lower Acceptance Priority Level (the lowest of which is level 4) until the Aggregate Purchase Price of all validly tendered Notes of a series, combined with the Aggregate Purchase Price of all accepted Notes of series with higher Acceptance Priority Levels, is as close as possible to, but does not exceed, the Maximum Consideration, (ii) accept on a prorated basis validly tendered Notes of the series with the next lower Acceptance Priority Level and (iii) not accept for purchase (x) any Notes of a series with an Acceptance Priority Level below the series prorated in accordance with (ii) hereof or (y) any Notes validly tendered after the applicable Early Tender Date; and





, if the Aggregate Purchase Price of all Notes validly tendered at or prior to the Early Tender Date by holders does not exceed the Maximum Consideration, then CFE will accept all such Notes validly tendered. However, if the Aggregate Purchase Price of all Notes validly tendered at or prior to the Early Tender Date by holders exceeds the Maximum Consideration, then CFE will (i) accept for purchase all validly tendered Notes of each series starting at the highest Acceptance Priority Level (level 1) and moving sequentially to Notes of each series having a lower Acceptance Priority Level (the lowest of which is level 4) until the Aggregate Purchase Price of all validly tendered Notes of a series, combined with the Aggregate Purchase Price of all accepted Notes of series with higher Acceptance Priority Levels, is as close as possible to, but does not exceed, the Maximum Consideration, (ii) accept on a prorated basis validly tendered Notes of the series with the next lower Acceptance Priority Level and (iii) not accept for purchase (x) any Notes of a series with an Acceptance Priority Level below the series prorated in accordance with (ii) hereof or (y) any Notes validly tendered after the applicable Early Tender Date; and second, if the Maximum Consideration is not exceeded at the Early Tender Date, CFE will repeat the steps described in the prior bullet using the Aggregate Purchase Price with respect to Notes validly tendered after the Early Tender Date, but at or prior to the Expiration Date, in order to determine the aggregate principal amount of such Notes that CFE will accept for purchase. All Notes, regardless of Acceptance Priority Level, that are validly tendered at or prior to the Early Tender Date will have priority over any Notes validly tendered after the Early Tender Date.

All Notes not accepted as a result of proration or otherwise will be rejected from the Offer and will be promptly returned to the tendering Holder.

Conditions

CFE's obligation to accept for purchase, and to pay for, any Notes validly tendered pursuant to the Offer, is conditioned upon the satisfaction of certain customary conditions as described in the Offer to Purchase. CFE reserves the right, in its sole discretion, to waive any and all conditions of the Offer. The Offer is not conditioned on any minimum amount of Notes being tendered.

The Dealer Managers

CFE has retained BNP Paribas Securities Corp., Citigroup Global Markets Inc., Morgan Stanley & Co. LLC and SMBC Nikko Securities America, Inc. to act as dealer managers in connection with the Offer (the "Dealer Managers"). Any questions or requests for assistance regarding the Offer may be directed to the Dealer Managers at their contact information set forth below.

BNP Paribas Securities Corp.

787 Seventh Avenue

New York, New York 10019

United States of America Attn: Liability Management Group Email: [email protected] Toll Free: +1 888-210-4358 Collect: +1 212-841-3059 Citigroup Global Markets Inc.

388 Greenwich Street, Trading 4th Floor

New York, New York 10013

United States of America Attn: Liability Management Group Email: [email protected] Toll-Free: +1 800-558-3745 Collect: +1 212-723-6106

Morgan Stanley & Co. LLC 1585 Broadway, 6th Floor New York, New York 10019 United States of America Attn: Global Debt Advisory Group Toll-Free: +1 800-624-1808 Collect: +1 212-761-1057 SMBC Nikko Securities America, Inc.

277 Park Avenue New York, New York 10172

United States of America Email: [email protected] Attn: Debt Capital Markets  Liability Management Toll-Free: +1 888-284-9760 Collect: +1 212-224-5163

The Tender Agent and the Information Agent

Copies of the Offer to Purchase may be obtained from Global Bondholder Services Corporation, the tender agent and the information agent for the Offer, at +1 (855) 654-2015 (toll-free) or +1 (212) 430-3774 (collect).

Disclaimer

This press release must be read in conjunction with the Offer to Purchase. This announcement and the Offer to Purchase contain important information which must be read carefully before any decision is made with respect to the Offer. If any holder of Notes is in any doubt as to the action it should take, it is recommended to seek its own legal, tax, accounting and financial advice, including as to any tax consequences, immediately from its stockbroker, bank manager, attorney, accountant or other independent financial or legal adviser. Any individual or company whose Notes are held on its behalf by a broker, dealer, bank, custodian, trust company or other nominee or intermediary must contact such entity if it wishes to participate in the Offer. None of the Company, the Dealer Managers, the Tender Agent and the Information Agent and any person who controls, or is a director, officer, employee or agent of any such person, or any affiliate of any such person, makes any recommendation as to whether holders of Notes should participate in the Offer.

The Offer to Purchase has not been filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, nor has it been filed with or reviewed by any federal or state securities commission or regulatory authority of any country. No authority has passed upon the accuracy or adequacy of the Offer to Purchase, and it is unlawful and may be a criminal offense to make any representation to the contrary.

THE INFORMATION CONTAINED HEREIN AND IN THE OFFER TO PURCHASE IS EXCLUSIVELY CFE'S RESPONSIBILITY AND HAS NOT BEEN REVIEWED OR AUTHORIZED BY THE MEXICAN NATIONAL BANKING AND SECURITIES COMMISSION (COMISION NACIONAL BANCARIA Y DE VALORES, OR THE "CNBV"). CFE HAS NOT FILED AND WILL NOT FILE WITH THE CNBV A REQUEST FOR AUTHORIZATION OF THE OFFER. THE OFFER DOES NOT CONSTITUTE A PUBLIC OFFERING (OFERTA PUBLICA) OF ANY KIND (INCLUDING AN OFERTA PUBLICA DE ADQUISICION) IN MEXICO AND IT MAY NOT BE PUBLICLY DISTRIBUTED IN MEXICO. THE OFFER MAY ONLY BE MADE AVAILABLE IN MEXICO TO INVESTORS THAT QUALIFY AS INSTITUTIONAL OR ACCREDITED INVESTORS (INVERSIONISTAS INSTITUCIONALES OR INVERSIONISTAS CALIFICADOS), SOLELY PURSUANT TO THE PRIVATE OFFERING EXEMPTION SET FORTH IN NUMERAL I. OF ARTICLE 8 OF THE MEXICAN SECURITIES MARKET LAW (LEY DEL MERCADO DE VALORES). IN MAKING A DECISION AS TO WHETHER TO TENDER ANY OF THEIR NOTES, ALL HOLDERS MUST RELY ON THEIR OWN REVIEW AND EXAMINATION OF THE TERMS OF THE OFFER. CFE WILL NOTIFY THE CNBV OF THE RESULTS OF THE OFFER FOR INFORMATIONAL AND STATISTICAL PURPOSES ONLY, AND THE FILING OR RECEIPT OF SUCH NOTICE BY THE CNBV DOES NOT IMPLY ANY CERTIFICATION AS TO THE INVESTMENT QUALITY OF THE NOTES, CFE'S SOLVENCY, LIQUIDITY OR CREDIT QUALITY OR THE ACCURACY OR COMPLETENESS OF THE INFORMATION SET FORTH HEREIN.

The Offer is being made solely on the terms and conditions set forth in the Offer to Purchase. Under no circumstances shall this press release constitute an offer to buy or the solicitation of an offer to sell the Notes or any other securities of the Company or any of its subsidiaries. The Offer is not being made to, nor will the Company accept tenders of Notes from, holders in any jurisdiction in which the Offer or the acceptance thereof would not be in compliance with the securities or blue sky laws of such jurisdiction.

Forward-Looking Statements

Statements in this press release may be forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are information of a non-historical nature or which relate to future events and are subject to risks and uncertainties. No assurance can be given that the transactions described herein will be consummated or as to the ultimate terms of any such transactions. CFE undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information or future events or for any other reason.

Media Contact: Carlos Guevara Vega +52 55 5705 3279 [email protected]

SOURCE Comision Federal de Electricidad
BEIJING, Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The Art Beat Season II premiered on CGTN television and various social media platforms on August 21. Each of its eight episodes focuses on the life and work of a different leading contemporary Chinese artist. Produced in multiple languages, it describes how their art tells China's story from a cultural perspective.

CGTN"The Art Beat" Season II Eight Artists Offer Fresh Takes on the China Story

Through an examination of their personal philosophies and their original paintings, performances and writings, the series reveals how, emboldened by the inspiration and strength they have gained from Chinese traditions, each artist has embraced innovation and taken his or her chosen art form into new areas of exploration.

Renowned artist Wu Yueshi believes that the essence of Chinese painting is found in the spiritual aspect of the whole. Only through deep cultivation is it possible to master subtlety of expression and gradually gain an insight into the profound and vast realm of Chinese art.

"Read, then paint" is the motto of Liu Wanming, an artist who is committed to depicting nature in the spirit of traditional Chinese painting. His love of reading, he says, has enabled him to bring an additional dimension of ancient charm to his paintings of the scenery of his hometown.

As an artist constantly seeking innovation, Shi Qi proposes the concept of "Three Forms in One". The duality of representation and abstraction, he says, is incomplete. Rather, the trio of representation, impression and abstraction offer a fuller picture, defining both life and artistic creation.

"Art is a lifestyle that makes me happy," says He Jialin, a painting master with a wide range of artistic interests. He believes in cultivating patriotism through his work and promoting traditional Chinese culture. In recent years, he has visited many ancient villages in China, determined to preserve the fading cultural heritage of these communities.

Ballet dancer Feng Ying's career has been defined by a relentless pursuit of excellence and artistic expression. Persistent and dauntless, she has overcome various difficulties and ascended to the very pinnacle of her profession. Today, as the director of the National Ballet of China, she remains as committed as ever to her art.

"Audiences should be glued to their seats, listening intently to your every word," says pingshu artist Tian Lianyuan. On stage, he uses just three everyday objects as props to tell his story  a fan, a wooden block and a handkerchief. Yet he manages to conjure "a life story, a historical drama" in which the audience become immersed in thousands of years of history and vast landscapes populated by vivid characters.

As the youngest recipient of the Mao Dun Literature PrizeAlai says he was destined to write. As a writer, he keenly evokes moments of excitement, confusion and pain without ever losing his sense of contemplation. "Humans are both the starting point and the destination," he says.

"Using broad strokes and big ink blocks to bring a three-dimensional effect to the paper," has been the defining approach of Zhou Jingxin. In 1995, he debuted a series of paintings that introduced a brand new style: "Ink Sculpture". He firmly believes that traditional Chinese painting is consistent with the concept of three-dimensionality.

SOURCE CGTN
Bringing modern hospitality to the city's Lower Nob Hill and SoMa neighborhoods, Oxford adds Hotel Julian, SoMa House, Hotel Garrett, and Hotel Fiona to their Bay Area portfolio, welcoming guests starting in September and October

SAN FRANCISCO, Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Demonstrating post-pandemic revival and improving vibrancy in San Francisco, Chicago-based Oxford Capital Group, LLC announces the debut of four rebranded hotels: Hotel Julian San Francisco (formerly Hotel Vertigo, and originally Empire Hotel), SoMa House (formerly Americania Hotel), Hotel Garrett (formerly Good Hotel), and Hotel Fiona (formerly Carriage Inn), now accepting reservations starting in mid-September and October with introductory pricing. In the Bay Area, Oxford currently owns and operates Hotel Griffon on the Embarcadero, Inn at Union Square and King George Hotel in Union Square, Creekside Inn in Palo Alto, as well as Hotel Los Gatos. Oxford Capital Group's wholly owned affiliate, Oxford Hotels & Resorts, LLC, will continue to manage these properties post reopening.

"We are sanguine about the long-term prospects of downtown San Francisco, which has proven resilient over a number of economic cycles and challenges," says Sarang Peruri, Chief Operating Officer of Oxford Capital Group, LLC and Partner of Oxford Hotels & Resorts, LLC. "By investing in these four properties as well as coming off recent comprehensive refreshes of Hotel Griffon and Hotel Los Gatos, our local portfolio of nine hotels is poised to differentiate itself and attract new customers."

With these developments, Oxford has proven its commitment to rebuilding and enhancing the surrounding communityand in particular the SoMa neighborhoodas it fell victim to homelessness and crime during the pandemic. After being utilized by the city for nearly three years as some of the first hotels in the city to provide quarantine facilities during COVID, in close partnership with city officials, including District Supervisor Matt Dorsey, District Attorney Brooke Jenkins, San Francisco Police Department Captain Luke Martin, and Mayor London Breed, these properties are poised to reopen, bringing modern design, refreshed hospitality, high touch service, and guest-driven amenities for business, leisure and convention travelers.

"As we expand our West Coast presence, we are proud to bring Oxford's commitment to compelling design, quality service, and enjoyable and safe community-driven experiences to these new properties," shares George Jordan, President of Oxford Hotels & Resorts, LLC. "SoMa will soon have new, vibrant public spaces and food & beverage experiences for locals and visitors to enjoy; somewhat of a 'living room' for the neighborhood."

In late 2022, Oxford began its efforts in refreshing and repositioning the properties. The initial focus was the guestrooms and lobby areas to allow for a soft reopening. Later this year and early next year, Oxford will debut additional guestrooms (adding nine rooms at SoMa House and four rooms at Hotel Garrett) and multiple new food and beverage facilities described below.

"On behalf of the City of San Francisco, I proudly welcome this bold investment in the South of Market neighborhood, and am eager to see the vibrancy, excitement, and visitation these new hotels will bring to the community and city at large," shares San Francisco Mayor London Breed. "Oxford's efforts here are an example of the kind of strong commitment that shows people are betting on San Francisco and that our future is bright. We have been, and look forward to continuing work alongside Oxford to make sure these properties are successful and the surrounding neighborhood is welcoming and safe for visitors, workers, and residents."

Hotel Julian San Francisco - Located in Lower Nob Hill, Hotel Juliannamed after the patron saint of hospitalityis finishing a multi-million-dollar refresh, featuring a combination of sophistication and playfulness with its 107 refreshed guestrooms and the introduction of a two-story, indoor-outdoor wine bar called Carlotta's (opening in early 2024), whose name dates to the Alfred Hitchcock film "Vertigo" that was filmed at the property in the 1950s. Hotel Julian features hard flooring, new central air conditioning, new furniture and refreshed bathrooms across the guestrooms and a reconfigured two-story arrival lobby.





- Located in Lower Nob Hill, Hotel Juliannamed after the patron saint of hospitalityis finishing a multi-million-dollar refresh, featuring a combination of sophistication and playfulness with its 107 refreshed guestrooms and the introduction of a two-story, indoor-outdoor wine bar called Carlotta's (opening in early 2024), whose name dates to the film "Vertigo" that was filmed at the property in the 1950s. Hotel Julian features hard flooring, new central air conditioning, new furniture and refreshed bathrooms across the guestrooms and a reconfigured two-story arrival lobby. SoMa House - SoMa House is finishing a multi-million-dollar refresh across 152 guestrooms (adding nine guestrooms), and a new sports-themed gastropub concept "SoMA Social" (opening in early 2024). The refresh combines playful design with traditional historic elements, with amenities including a fitness center, heated outdoor pool, and an expansive courtyard space with new water feature. The guestroom refresh includes hard flooring, new furniture, refreshed bathrooms, and improved air conditioning system. The property is also currently designing a new indoor-outdoor rooftop venue boasting unobstructed views of the city skyline that would be operated in conjunction with SoMa Social.





- SoMa House is finishing a multi-million-dollar refresh across 152 guestrooms (adding nine guestrooms), and a new sports-themed gastropub concept "SoMA Social" (opening in early 2024). The refresh combines playful design with traditional historic elements, with amenities including a fitness center, heated outdoor pool, and an expansive courtyard space with new water feature. The guestroom refresh includes hard flooring, new furniture, refreshed bathrooms, and improved air conditioning system. The property is also currently designing a new indoor-outdoor rooftop venue boasting unobstructed views of the city skyline that would be operated in conjunction with SoMa Social. Hotel Garrett - Hotel Garrett's multi-million-dollar refresh blends modern elegance with rich architectural history, and features hard flooring, improved air conditioning system, new furniture, and refreshed bathrooms across 121 guestrooms (adding four guestrooms), along with an expanded and reconfigured lobby. Hotel Garrett houses a 4,200 square foot restaurant space with an open kitchen, two private dining areas, and full-service bar, and is currently evaluating prospective tenants to relaunch this venue in 2024.





- Hotel Garrett's multi-million-dollar refresh blends modern elegance with rich architectural history, and features hard flooring, improved air conditioning system, new furniture, and refreshed bathrooms across 121 guestrooms (adding four guestrooms), along with an expanded and reconfigured lobby. Hotel Garrett houses a 4,200 square foot restaurant space with an open kitchen, two private dining areas, and full-service bar, and is currently evaluating prospective tenants to relaunch this venue in 2024. Hotel Fiona - The refreshed, historic 48-key boutique hotel property with Victorian flare features hard flooring, new furniture, central air conditioning, and refreshed bathrooms across its guestrooms, and an updated arrival lobby.

For more information, please visit www.oxford-capital.com . Imagery can be viewed at this Dropbox link (credit: Oxford Capital Group, LLC).

ABOUT OXFORD CAPITAL GROUP, LLC AND OXFORD HOTELS & RESORTS, LLC

Oxford Capital Group, LLC is an award-winning international real estate investment, development, and management firm that focuses on large-scale acquisitions, developments, redevelopments, and operationally-intensive real estate. Oxford, its affiliates, and principals have been involved in over $3 billion of real estate and private equity investments, with a primary focus on hospitality (15,000+ hotel rooms); hospitality anchored mixed use projects including multi-family (1,000+ units); senior housing (3,000+ units); urban retail; and parking. Oxford Hotels & Resorts, LLC is its wholly owned hotel management affiliate, which specializes in operating, managing, and branding distinctive, high design luxury lifestyle hotels, and food & beverage venues. Its growing national portfolio of luxury lifestyle hotels and brands include Audrey, Cass, Felix, Godfrey, Griffon, Julian, King George, Le Meridien Essex Chicago, LondonHouse, Los Gatos, Porter, Thompson (Chicago), Versey, and Vertigo. It also has a growing collection of restaurants, rooftops, bars and pool-centric food & beverage venues. These include About Last Knife (ALK), I|O Rooftop, LH Rooftop, Ruka, Spa Boutique, SX Sky Bar, and WTR. Oxford Living, LLC is its senior housing investment and management platform. Oxford Residential, LLC is its multi-family development affiliate.

SOURCE Oxford Capital Group, LLC
Employee testimonials and opportunities for growth highlighted in latest advertising campaign

NEWPORT BEACH, Calif., Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Chipotle Mexican Grill (NYSE: CMG) today announced it is looking to recruit culinary enthusiasts and purpose driven individuals to join its growing restaurant teams. With fall being the start of the company's second busiest season, and over 250 new restaurant openings this year, Chipotle is staffing up nationwide to achieve its aggressive short and long-term growth goals. So far, the organization is on track to create over 7,000 new jobs this year despite overall U.S. job openings falling to the lowest level since April 2021.*

To support its ongoing growth, Chipotle is on track to create over 7,000 new jobs this year.

Building on the success of its Behind the Foil documentary style television spots, Chipotle is rolling out a new installment of commercials featuring unfiltered and emotional testimonials from team members about the impact Chipotle has had on their lives as well as a glimpse into daily preparation using real ingredients and classic culinary techniques, a key differentiator for Chipotle. The campaign content is created by Venables Bell + Partners and shot by famed documentarian Errol Morris.

"Behind the Foil celebrates the heart of Chipotle  our team," said Chris Brandt, Chief Brand Officer. "There is no better way to make Chipotle more visible, relevant, and loved than to feature our talented restaurant team members preparing our craveable, real food while sharing their authentic stories."

See Behind the Foil advertising here:

Attracting Talent Where They Are

With the average age of Chipotle's restaurant employees being 24 years old and with 40% of Gen Z preferring to search on social media compared to traditional search engines, Chipotle has turned to social media for its latest hiring campaign.** The brand also aims to pull back the foil on social media with behind-the-scenes content highlighting the daily life of Chipotle employees, cooking content, and the perks of working at Chipotle (see HERE , HERE , HERE ).

Ingredients For Top Talent

As a people first company, Chipotle is committed to developing and retaining diverse talent. In 2022, Chipotle had approximately 22,000 internal promotions and is on track to surpass this in 2023 due to its promote-from-within culture and investments in training, upskilling, and debt-free degree program. Additionally, crew members can advance to a Restaurateur in as little as three and a half years, with a potential total compensation package of approximately $100,000 while leading a multi-million-dollar business. Currently, over 85 percent of restaurant leadership started as crew members and have built a career at Chipotle.

"Chipotle is a people and food company and to continue serving exceptional food, we need exceptional people to grow with us," said Scott Boatwright, Chief Operating Officer. "We are looking to cultivate new culinary driven talent and develop them into world-class operators to support our future growth plans."

As an added incentive to boost its recruiting efforts, Chipotle offers restaurant staff a $200 referral bonus for those who refer another crew member and a $750 referral bonus for referring an Apprentice or General Manager.

Chipotle offers leading benefits, including competitive wages: an all-crew bonus program, which allows its restaurant employees the opportunity to earn up to an extra month's worth of pay each year; access to mental health care and medical, dental and vision insurance; English as a second language for employees and their families; tuition reimbursement and debt-free college degrees; 401K with employer match; paid vacation and sick leave; flexible schedules, free meals and more. The organization has found its retention rate is two times higher among employees enrolled in the education assistance program, and crew members participating are six times more likely to move into a management role.

Those interested in joining Chipotle on its mission of Cultivating a Better World can apply here: Chipotle Careers .

* SOURCE: CNN

** SOURCE: TechCrunch

About Chipotle

Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc. (NYSE: CMG) is cultivating a better world by serving responsibly sourced, classically-cooked, real food with wholesome ingredients without artificial colors, flavors or preservatives. Chipotle had over 3,250 restaurants as of June 30, 2023, in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, France and Germany and is the only restaurant company of its size that owns and operates all its restaurants in North America and Europe. Chipotle is ranked on the Fortune 500 and is recognized on the 2023 list for Fortune's Most Admired Companies and Time Magazine's Most Influential Companies. With over 110,000 employees passionate about providing a great guest experience, Chipotle is a longtime leader and innovator in the food industry. Chipotle is committed to making its food more accessible to everyone while continuing to be a brand with a demonstrated purpose as it leads the way in digital, technology and sustainable business practices. For more information or to place an order online, visit WWW.CHIPOTLE.COM .

SOURCE Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc.
CHICAGO, Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Choreo, LLC (Choreo) announced today that CEO Larry Miles will deliver a keynote address at the prestigious DeVoe M&A Succession Summit.

The Sept. 18 to 20 event in Dallas is one of DeVoe & Co.'s signature events for RIA owners and principals who are considering a transaction or a transition.

Miles' "fireside chat" keynote will include a discussion on how a thoughtful M&A and succession strategy can help redefine the role of the RIA. Nearly 24 other presenters will share best practices for acquisition and transition.

"I am honored to speak at this year's Summit," Miles said. "In less than two years, Choreo closed on three strategic acquisitions to set the foundation of becoming the preferred wealth partner to the CPA community. In addition to discussing strategies from these acquisitions, I look forward to sharing how a digitally integrated wealth platform enables us to serve as an extension of CPA firms, augment the client experience and support our mission of translating wealth into fulfillment for our clients and their communities."

The M&A Succession Summit is one of two key industry events organized by DeVoe & Co. The DeVoe Elevate program on driving sustainable growth is held every spring.

About Choreo, LLC

Choreo is an independent firm focused on redefining the RIA's place in the wealth advisory industry. Passionate about improving the well-being of clients, their families and their communities, Choreo operates out of 39 locations across the country. Choreo's experienced advisors define, design and build solutions for their clients' financial and related needs so they can focus on what matters most to them. Originally launched over 20 years ago as a subsidiary of one of the largest CPA and professional services firms in the country, Choreo serves over 6,000 families with approximately $14.8 billion of assets under management or advisement (as of February 2023). For more information, visit choreoadvisors.com.

Media Inquiries

Michael Dugan or Donald Cutler

Haven Tower Group

424 317 4852 or 424 317 4864

[email protected] or [email protected]

SOURCE Choreo, LLC
GUANGZHOU, China, Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- CNFinance Holdings Limited (NYSE: CNF) ("CNFinance" or the "Company"), a leading home equity loan service provider in China, today announced its unaudited financial results for the second quarter ended June 30, 2023 and the first half of 2023.

Second Quarter 2023 Operational and Financial Highlights

Total loan origination volume [1] was RMB4.5 billion ( US$626.8 million ) in the second quarter of 2023, representing an increase of 45.2% from RMB3.1 billion in the same period of 2022.

was ( ) in the second quarter of 2023, representing an increase of 45.2% from in the same period of 2022. Total number of active borrowers [2] was 25,657 during the second quarter of 2023, representing an increase of 18.5% from 21,649 in the same period of 2022.

was 25,657 during the second quarter of 2023, representing an increase of 18.5% from 21,649 in the same period of 2022. Total number of transactions [3] was 6,269 during the second quarter of 2023, representing an increase of 8.6% from 5,770 in the same period of 2022.

was 6,269 during the second quarter of 2023, representing an increase of 8.6% from 5,770 in the same period of 2022. Total interest and fees income was RMB431.3 million ( US$59.5 million ) in the second quarter of 2023, representing an increase of 5.2% from RMB409.9 million in the same period of 2022.

( ) in the second quarter of 2023, representing an increase of 5.2% from in the same period of 2022. Net income was RMB43.8 million ( US$6.0 million ) in the second quarter of 2023, representing an increase of 142.0% from RMB18.1 million in the same period of 2022.

( ) in the second quarter of 2023, representing an increase of 142.0% from in the same period of 2022. Basic earnings per ADS and diluted earnings per ADS were RMB0.64 (US$0.09) and RMB0.57 (US$0.08) , respectively, in the second quarter of 2023, compared to RMB0.27 and RMB0.24 , respectively, in the same period of 2022.

First Half of 2023 Operational and Financial Highlights

Total loan origination volume [1] was RMB8.0 billion ( US$1.1 billion ) in the first half of 2023, representing an increase of 42.9% from RMB5.6 billion in the same period of 2022.

was ( ) in the first half of 2023, representing an increase of 42.9% from in the same period of 2022. Total number of transactions [3] was 11,812 during the first half of 2023, representing an increase of 16.3% from 10,156 in the same period of 2022.

was 11,812 during the first half of 2023, representing an increase of 16.3% from 10,156 in the same period of 2022. Total interest and fees income was RMB884.5 million ( US$122.0 million ) in the first half of 2023, representing an increase of 6.9% from RMB827.1 million in the same period of 2022.

( ) in the first half of 2023, representing an increase of 6.9% from in the same period of 2022. Net income was RMB93.1 million ( US$12.8 million ) in the first half of 2023, representing an increase of 52.1% from RMB61.2 million in the same period of 2022.

( ) in the first half of 2023, representing an increase of 52.1% from in the same period of 2022. Basic earnings per ADS and diluted earnings per ADS were RMB1.36 (US$0.19) and RMB1.22 (US$0.17) , respectively, in the first half of 2023, compared to RMB0.89 and RMB0.80 respectively, in the same period of 2022.

"In the second quarter of 2023, we have continued promoting high-quality development of our services by coordinating growth of scale and, asset quality, while ensuring our general compliance with applicable laws and regulations. During such quarter, we originated loans of RMB4.5 billion in total. As a result of our effective risk control mechanism, we recovered loan principal, interest and penalties which equal to approximately 110% of the actual outstanding loan principal of delinquent loans in the second quarter of 2023. In the second quarter of 2023, we continued to refine our credit risk control mechanism by analyzing historical data and adding more influential factors into the model of collateral evaluation and credit decisions. As a result of constantly improving credit risk control mechanism, our delinquency ratio (excluding loans held-for-sale) has decreased.

Going forward, as the recovery of China's economy has slowed down, our task remains to achieve 'high-quality development', which requires us to expand our business and manage the overall risk at the same time. To achieve such goal, we will have to keep designing new products to meet the needs of a broader range of customers and also investing in technology to empower the full cycle of our business." Commented Mr. Zhai Bin, Chairman and CEO of CNFinance.

[1] Refers to the total amount of loans CNFinance originated under the trust lending model and loans recommended to commercial banks during the relevant period. [2] Refers to borrowers with outstanding loan principal of home equity loans as at the end of a specific period. [3] Refers to the total number of loans CNFinance originated under the trust lending model and loans recommended to commercial banks during the relevant period.



Second Quarter 2023 Financial Results

Total interest and fees income increased by 5.2% to RMB431.3 million (US$59.5 million) for the second quarter of 2023 from RMB409.9 million in the same period of 2022.

Interest and financing service fees on loans increased by 5.6% to RMB395.9 million (US$54.6 million) for the second quarter of 2023 from RMB374.8 million in the same period of 2022, primarily attributable to the increase of average daily outstanding loan principal in the second quarter of 2023 as compared to the same period of 2022.

Interest income charged to sales partners, representing fee charged to sales partners who choose to repurchase default loans in installments, decreased by 12.6% to RMB28.5 million (US$3.9 million) for the second quarter of 2023 from RMB32.6 million in the same period of 2022, primarily due to the decrease of default loans that were repurchased by sales partners in installments during the second quarter of 2023.

Interest on deposits with banks increased by 176.0% to RMB6.9 million (US$1.0 million) for the second quarter of 2023 from RMB2.5 million in the same period of 2022, primarily due to increased average daily balance of time deposits.

Total interest and fees expenses decreased by 3.0% to RMB181.7 million (US$25.1 million) for the second quarter of 2023, compared to RMB187.3 million in the same period of 2022, primarily due to lower funding cost from trust companies.

Net interest and fees income was RMB249.6 million (US$34.4 million) for the second quarter of 2023, representing an increase of 12.1% from RMB222.6 million in the same period of 2022.

Net revenue under the commercial bank partnership model, representing fees charged to commercial banks for services including introducing borrowers, initial credit assessment, facilitating loans from the banks to the borrower and providing technical assistance to the borrower and banks, net of fees paid to third-party insurance company and commissions paid to sales channels, was RMB28.6 million (US$3.9 million) for the second quarter of 2023 as compared to RMB0.7 million in the same period of 2022. The Company has been collaborating with commercial banks since 2021 and such collaboration grew and scaled in the second half of 2022. The outstanding loan principal under the commercial bank partnership was RMB4.5 billion as of June 30, 2023 as compared to RMB0.3 billion as of June 30, 2022.

Collaboration cost for sales partners was RMB82.6 million (US$11.4 million) for the second quarter of 2023 as compared to RMB76.6 million in the same period of 2022, primarily due to the increase of loans recommended by sales partners under the commercial bank partnership.

Net interest and fees income after collaboration cost was RMB195.6 million (US$27.0 million) for the second quarter of 2023, representing an increase of 33.3% from RMB146.7 million in the same period of 2022.

Provision for credit losses, representing provision for credit losses under the trust lending model and the expected credit losses of guarantee under the commercial bank partnership model in relation to certain financial guarantee arrangements the Company entered into with a third-party guarantor, who provides guarantee services to commercial bank partners, decreased by 25.7% to RMB50.8 million (US$7.0 million) for the second quarter of 2023 from RMB68.4 million in the same period of 2022, primarily due to the decrease in outstanding loan principal of delinquent loans resulting from our constantly improving credit risk control mechanism.

Realized gains on sales of investments, net representing realized gains from the sales of investment securities, was RMB11.8 million (US$1.6 million), as compared to RMB8.1 million for the same period of 2022. The increase was primarily due to effective funds management.

Net losses on sales of loans was RMB3.3 million (US$0.5 million) for the second quarter of 2023 as compared to RMB3.4 million in the same period of 2022.

Other gains, net decreased by 97.3% to RMB0.8 million (US$0.1 million) for the second quarter of 2023 from RMB29.8 million in the same period of 2022, primarily due to the decrease of Credit Risk Mitigation Positions forfeited by the sales partners as a result of our refined management on sales partners.

Total operating expenses increased by 8.0% to RMB98.7 million (US$13.6 million) for the second quarter of 2023, compared with RMB91.4 million in the same period of 2022.

Employee compensation and benefits was RMB50.9 million (US$7.0 million) for the second quarter of 2023 as compared to RMB48.6 million in the same period of 2022, primarily attributable to an increase in the performance-based bonuses as a result of an increase in loan origination volume during the second quarter of 2023.

Share-based compensation expenses for the second quarter of 2023 was nil as compared to RMB1.4 million in the same period of 2022. According to the Company's share option plan adopted on December 31, 2019, approximately 50%, 30% and 20% of the option granted was vested on December 31, 2020, 2021 and 2022, respectively. Related compensation cost of the option granted has been fully recognized as of December 31, 2022.

Taxes and surcharges decreased by 14.4% to RMB7.7 million (US$1.1 million) for the second quarter of 2023 from RMB9.0 million for the same period of 2022, primarily attributable to the decrease of "service fees charged to trust plans" which is a non-deductible item in value added tax ("VAT"). According to the PRC tax regulations, "service fees charged to trust plans" incur a 6% VAT on the subsidiary level, but are not recorded as an input VAT on a consolidated trust plan level. "Service fees charged to trust plans" decreased in the second quarter of 2023 compared to the same period of 2022 due to the decrease of scale of some trust plans.

Operating lease cost increased to RMB3.7 million (US$0.5 million) for the second quarter of 2023 as compared to RMB3.5 million for the same period of 2022.

Other expenses increased by 26.0% to RMB36.4 million (US$5.0 million) for the second quarter of 2023 from RMB28.9 million in the same period of 2022, primarily due to the increase in fees paid to local channels for introducing sales partners to the Company.

Income tax expense increased by 251.5% to RMB11.6 million (US$1.6 million) for the second quarter of 2023 from RMB3.3 million in the same period of 2022, due to the increase in the amount of taxable income.

Effective tax rate increased to 21.0% for the second quarter of 2023 from 15.3% in the same period of 2022, primarily due to the fact that one of the subsidiaries turned from losses to profit-making incomes during the second quarter in 2022, resulting in reversal of the full valuation allowance of the deferred tax asset. Such reversal of allowance did not occur in the second quarter of 2023.

Net income increased by 142.0% to RMB43.8 million (US$6.0 million) for the second quarter of 2023 from RMB18.1 million in the same period of 2022.

Basic earnings per ADS and diluted earnings per ADS were RMB0.64 (US$0.09) and RMB0.57(US$0.08), respectively, in the second quarter of 2023, compared to RMB0.27 and RMB0.24, respectively, in the same period of 2022. One ADS represents 20 ordinary shares.

First Half of 2023 Financial Results

Total interest and fees income increased by 6.9% to RMB884.5 million (US$122.0 million) for the first half of 2023 from RMB827.1 million in the same period of 2022.

Interest and financing service fees on loans increased by 5.4% to RMB807.4 million (US$111.4 million) for the first half of 2023 from RMB765.9 million in the same period of 2022, primarily attributable to the increase of average daily outstanding loan principal in the first half of 2023 as compared to the same period of 2022.

Interest income charged to sales partners, representing fee charged to sales partners who choose to repurchase default loans in installments, increased by 17.9% to RMB66.0 million (US$9.1 million) for the first half of 2023 from RMB56.0 million in the same period of 2022, primarily due to the fact that the Company allowed more sales partners to repurchase the default loans in installments to help sales partners ease their pressure on cashflow in the first half of 2023.

Interest on deposits with banks increased by 113.5% to RMB11.1 million (US$1.5 million) for the first half of 2023 from RMB5.2 million in the same period of 2022, primarily due to increased average daily balance of time deposits.

Total interest and fees expenses decreased by 5.6% to RMB366.3 million (US$50.5 million) in the first half of 2023 from RMB388.2 million in the same period in 2022, primarily due to lower funding cost from trust companies in the first half of 2023.

Net interest and fees income was RMB518.2 million (US$71.5 million) for the first half of 2023, representing an increase of 18.1% from RMB438.9 million in the same period of 2022.

Net revenue under the commercial bank partnership model, representing fees charged to commercial banks for services including introducing borrowers, initial credit assessment, facilitating loans from the banks to the borrower and providing technical assistance to the borrower and banks, net of fees paid to third-party insurance company and commissions paid to sales channels, was RMB50.1 million (US$6.9 million) for the first half of 2023 as compared to RMB0.9 million in the same period of 2022. The Company has been collaborating with commercial banks since 2021 and such collaboration grew and scaled in the second half of 2022. The outstanding loan principal under the commercial bank partnership was RMB4.5 billion as of June 30, 2023 as compared to RMB0.3 billion as of June 30, 2022.

Collaboration cost for sales partners increased by 6.0% to RMB165.6 million (US$22.8 million) for the first half of 2023 from RMB156.2 million in the same period of 2022, primarily due to the increase of loans recommended by sales partners under the commercial bank partnership.

Net interest and fees income after collaboration cost increased by 42.0% to RMB402.7million (US$55.5 million) for the first half of 2023 from RMB283.6 million in the same period of 2022.

Provision for credit losses representing provision for credit losses under the trust lending model and the expected credit losses of guarantee under the commercial bank partnership model in relation to certain financial guarantee arrangements the Company entered into with a third-party guarantor, who provides guarantee services to commercial bank partners, increased by 136.1% to RMB129.6 million (US$17.9 million) for the first half of 2023 from RMB54.9 million in the same period in 2022. The increase was the combined effect of (a) the increase in expected credit losses of guarantee under the commercial bank partnership model as the origination volume grew and scaled rapidly in the first half of 2023; (b) a reversal of allowance in the first quarter of 2022 due to the fact that the Company disposed the remaining loans under the traditional facilitation model to third parties and the allowance of such loans was reversed.

Realized gains on sales of investments, net representing realized gains from the sales of investment securities, was RMB15.7 million (US$2.2 million), as compared to RMB16.4 million for the same period of 2022.

Net losses on sales of loans was RMB4.2 million (US$0.6 million) for the first half of 2023 as compared to RMB42.4 million in the same period of 2022. The net losses in the first half of 2022 was primarily attributable to the fact that the Company disposed the remaining loans under the traditional facilitation model which were all facilitated prior to 2019 to third parties in bulk during the first quarter of 2022.

Other gains, net decreased by 65.4% to RMB16.7 million (US$2.3million) for the first half of 2023 from RMB48.3 million in the same period of 2022, primarily due to the decrease of Credit Risk Mitigation Positions forfeited by the sales partners as a result of our refined management on sales partners.

Total operating expenses increased by 4.6% to RMB179.0 million (US$24.7 million) in the first half of 2023, compared with RMB171.2 million in the same period of 2022.

Employee compensation and benefits increased by 3.7% to RMB95.0 million (US$13.1 million) in the first half of 2023 from RMB91.6 million in the same period in 2022.

Share-based compensation expenses in the first half of 2023 was nil as compared to RMB2.9 million in the same period of 2022. According to the Company's share option plan adopted on December 31, 2019, approximately 50%, 30% and 20% of the option granted was vested on December 31, 2020, 2021 and 2022, respectively. Related compensation cost of the option granted has been fully recognized as of December 31, 2022.

Taxes and surcharges decreased by 4.1% to RMB16.4 million (US$2.3 million) in the first half of 2023 from RMB17.1 million in the same period of 2022, primarily attributable to the decrease of "service fees charged to trust plans" which is a non-deductible item in value added tax ("VAT"). According to the PRC tax regulations, "service fees charged to trust plans" incur a 6% VAT on the subsidiary level, but are not recorded as an input VAT on a consolidated trust plan level. "Service fees charged to trust plans" decreased in the first half of 2023 compared to the same period of 2022 due to the decrease of scale of some trust plans.

Operating lease cost was RMB7.8 million (US$1.1 million) for the first half of 2023 as compared to RMB7.0 million for the same period of 2022.

Other expenses increased by 13.7% to RMB59.8 million (US$8.2 million) in the first half of 2023 from RMB52.6 million in the same period of 2022, primarily due to the increase in fees paid to local channels for introducing sales partners to the Company.

Income tax expense was RMB29.2 million (US$4.0 million) in the first half of 2023, as compared to RMB18.6 million in the same period of 2022, primarily due to the increase in taxable income in the first half of 2023 as compared to the same period of 2022.

Effective tax rate was 23.9% as compared to 23.4% in the same period of 2022.

Net income increased by 52.1% to RMB93.1 million (US$12.8 million) in the first half of 2023, from RMB61.2 million in the same period of 2022.

Basic earnings per ADS and diluted earnings per ADS were RMB1.36 (US$0.19) and RMB1.22 (US$0.17), respectively, in the first half of 2023, compared to RMB0.89 and RMB0.80 respectively, in the same period of 2022. One ADS represents 20 ordinary shares.

As of June 30, 2023, the Company had cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash of RMB1.9 billion (US$0.3 billion), compared with RMB1.8 billion as of December 31, 2022, including RMB1.3 billion (US$0.2 billion) and RMB1.2 billion from structured funds as of June 30, 2023 and December 31, 2022, respectively, which could only be used to grant new loans and activities.

The delinquency ratio (excluding loans held for sale) for loans originated by the Company decreased from 18.3% as of December 31, 2022 to 15.2% as of June 30, 2023. The delinquency ratio for first lien loans (excluding Loans held-for-sale) decreased from 21.8% as of December 31, 2022 to 17.7% as of June 30, 2023, and the delinquency ratio for second lien loans (excluding Loans held-for-sale) increased from 13.8% as of December 31, 2022 to 14.4% as of June 30, 2023.

The NPL ratio (excluding loans held for sale) for loans originated by the Company increased from 1.1% as of December 31, 2022 to 1.4% as of June 30, 2023. The NPL ratio for first lien loans (excluding Loans held-for-sale) increased from 1.1% as of December 31, 2022 to 1.8% as of June 30, 2023, and the NPL ratio for second lien loans (excluding Loans held-for-sale) increased from 1.2% as of December 31, 2022 to 1.4% as of June 30, 2023.

Recent Development

US$20 Million Share Repurchase Program

On March 16, 2022, the Company's board of directors authorized a share repurchase program under which the Company may repurchase up to US$20 million of its ordinary shares in the form of American depositary shares ("ADSs") during a period of up to 12 months commencing on March 16, 2022. On March 16, 2023, the Company's board of directors authorized to extend the share repurchase program for 12 months commencing on March 16, 2023. As of June 30, 2023, the Company had repurchased an aggregate of approximately US$14.8 million worth of its ADSs under this share repurchase program.

Conference Call

CNFinance's management will host an earnings conference call at 8:00 AM U.S. Eastern Time on Tuesday, August 29, 2023 (8:00 PM Beijing/ Hong Kong Time on the same day).

Dial-in numbers for the live conference call are as follows:

International: +1-412-902-4272 Mainland China +86-4001-201203 United States: +1-888-346-8982 Hong Kong: +852-3018-4992 Passcode: CNFinance



A telephone replay of the call will be available after the conclusion of the conference call until 11:59 PM ET on September 5, 2023.

Dial-in numbers for the replay are as follows:

International: +1-412-317-0088 United States: +1-877-344-7529 Passcode: 5588757



A live and archived webcast of the conference call will be available on the Investor Relations section of CNFinance's website at http://ir.cashchina.cn/.

Exchange Rate

The Company's business is primarily conducted in China and all of the revenues are denominated in Renminbi ("RMB"). This announcement contains translations of certain RMB amounts into U.S. dollars at specified rates solely for the convenience of the reader. Unless otherwise noted, all translations from RMB to U.S. dollars are made at a rate of RMB7.2513 to US$1.00, the exchange rate set forth in the H.10 statistical release of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System as of June 30, 2023. No representation is made that the RMB amounts could have been, or could be, converted, realized or settled into U.S. dollars at that rate on June 30, 2023, or at any other rate.

Safe Harbor Statement

This press release contains forward-looking statements made under the "safe harbor" provisions of Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements can be identified by terminology such as "will", "expects", "anticipates", "future", "intends", "plans", "believes", "estimates", "confident" and similar statements. The Company may also make written or oral forward-looking statements in its reports filed with or furnished to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, in its annual report to shareholders, in press releases and other written materials and in oral statements made by its officers, directors or employees to third parties. Any statements that are not historical facts, including statements about the Company's beliefs and expectations, are forward-looking statements that involve factors, risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements. Such factors and risks include, but not limited to the following: its goals and strategies, its ability to achieve and maintain profitability, its ability to retain existing borrowers and attract new borrowers, its ability to maintain and enhance the relationship and business collaboration with its trust company partners and to secure sufficient funding from them, the effectiveness of its risk assessment process and risk management system, its ability to maintain low delinquency ratios for loans it originated, fluctuations in general economic and business conditions in China, the impact and future development of COVID-19 pandemic in China and across the globe, and relevant government law, rules, policies or guidelines relating to the Company's corporate structure, business and industry. Further information regarding these and other risks is included in the Company's filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. All information provided in this press release is current as of the date of the press release, and the Company does not undertake any obligation to update such information, except as required under applicable law.

About CNFinance Holdings Limited

CNFinance Holdings Limited (NYSE: CNF) ("CNFinance" or the "Company") is a leading home equity loan service provider in China. CNFinance, through its operating subsidiaries in China, conducts business by connecting demands and supplies through collaborating with sales partners and trust companies under the trust lending model, and local channel partners and commercial banks under the commercial bank partnership model. Sales partners and local channel partners are responsible for recommending micro- and small-enterprise ("MSE") owners with financing needs to the Company and the Company introduces eligible borrowers to licensed financial institutions with sufficient funding sources including trust companies and commercial banks who will then conduct their own risk assessments and make credit decisions. The Company's primary target borrower segment is MSE owners who own real properties in Tier 1 and Tier 2 cities and other major cities in China. The Company's risk mitigation mechanism is embedded in the design of its loan products, supported by an integrated online and offline process focusing on risks of both borrowers and collateral and further enhanced by effective post-loan management procedures.

For more information, please contact:

CNFinance

E-mail: [email protected]

CNFINANCE HOLDINGS LIMITED Unaudited condensed consolidated balance sheets (In thousands, except for number of shares)





December 31, 2022



June 30, 2023





RMB



RMB



US$

Assets





































Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash



1,772,184





1,880,754





259,368

Loans principal, interest and financing service fee receivables



9,456,802





8,149,245





1,123,832

Allowance for credit losses



763,996





680,016





93,778

Net loans principal, interest and financing service fee receivables



8,692,806





7,469,229





1,030,054

Loans held-for-sale



1,844,438





2,101,460





289,805

Investment securities



518,645





999,129





137,786

Property and equipment



2,284





2,920





403

Intangible assets and goodwill



3,488





3,233





446

Deferred tax assets



76,905





108,811





15,005

Deposits



145,093





154,311





21,280

Right-of-use assets



29,777





32,051





4,420

Guaranteed assets



726,411





715,707





98,701

Other assets



669,889





1,007,093





138,884



























Total assets



14,481,920





14,474,698





1,996,152



























Liabilities and shareholders' equity

















































Interest-bearing borrowings























Borrowings under agreements to repurchase



112,642





472,143





65,111

Other borrowings



7,727,559





6,806,168





938,614

Accrued employee benefits



31,645





20,273





2,796

Income taxes payable



186,901





215,392





29,704

Deferred tax liabilities



73,752





71,791





9,900

Lease liabilities



28,583





30,810





4,249

Credit risk mitigation position



1,354,653





1,331,863





183,672

Other liabilities



1,028,471





1,451,390





200,156



























Total liabilities



10,544,206





10,399,830





1,434,202



























Ordinary shares (USD0.0001 par value; 3,800,000,000 shares

authorized; 1,559,576,960 shares issued and 1,371,643,240 shares

outstanding as of December 31, 2022 and June 30, 2023)



917





917





126

Treasury stock



(87,631)





(98,130)





(13,533)

Additional paid-in capital



1,024,204





1,024,204





141,244

Retained earnings



2,958,716





3,042,896





419,635

Accumulated other comprehensive losses



(10,212)





(2,834)





(390)

Non-controlling interests



51,720





107,815





14,868

Total shareholders' equity



3,937,714





4,074,868





561,950



























Total liabilities and shareholders' equity



14,481,920





14,474,698





1,996,152



CNFINANCE HOLDINGS LIMITED Unaudited condensed consolidated statements of comprehensive income (In thousands, except for earnings per share and earnings per ADS)





Three months ended June 30,2023





2022



2023



2023





RMB



RMB



US$

Interest and fees income





































Interest and financing service fees on loans(2)



374,783





395,923





54,600

Interest income charged to sales partners



32,557





28,517





3,933

Interest on deposits with banks



2,492





6,885





949



























Total interest and fees income



409,832





431,325





59,482



























Interest expenses on interest-bearing borrowings



(187,304)





(181,687)





(25,056)



























Total interest and fees expenses



(187,304)





(181,687)





(25,056)



























Net interest and fees income



222,528





249,638





34,426



























Net revenue under the commercial bank partnership model(2)



741





28,588





3,942

Collaboration cost for sales partners



(76,599)





(82,576)





(11,387)



























Net interest and fees income after collaboration cost



146,670





195,650





26,981



























Provision for credit losses (1)



(68,416)





(50,820)





(7,008)



























Net interest and fees income after collaboration cost and

provision for credit losses



78,254





144,830





19,973



























Realized gains on sales of investments, net



8,066





11,827





1,631

Net losses on sales of loans(1)



(3,440)





(3,293)





(454)

Other gains, net



29,892





750





103



























Total non-interest income



34,518





9,284





1,280



























Operating expenses























Employee compensation and benefits



(48,602)





(50,932)





(7,024)

Share-based compensation expenses



(1,444)





-





-

Taxes and surcharges



(9,036)





(7,716)





(1,064)

Operating lease cost



(3,436)





(3,675)





(507)

Other expenses



(28,863)





(36,379)





(5,017)



























Total operating expenses



(91,381)





(98,702)





(13,612)



























Income before income tax expense



21,391





55,412





7,641

Income tax expense



(3,276)





(11,632)





(1,603)



























Net income



18,115





43,780





6,038



























Earnings per share























Basic



0.01





0.03





0.004

Diluted



0.01





0.03





0.004

Earnings per ADS (1 ADS equals 20 ordinary shares)























Basic



0.27





0.64





0.09

Diluted



0.24





0.57





0.08



























Other comprehensive income























Foreign currency translation adjustment



11,107





8,884





1,225

Comprehensive income



29,222





52,664





7,263

Less: net income attributable to non-controlling interests



-





6,477





893

Total comprehensive income attributable to ordinary

shareholders



29,222





46,187





6,370



CNFINANCE HOLDINGS LIMITED Unaudited condensed consolidated statements of comprehensive income (In thousands, except for earnings per share and earnings per ADS)





Six months ended June 30,2023,





2022



2023



2023





RMB



RMB



US$

Interest and fees income





































Interest and financing service fees on loans(2)



765,893





807,372





111,342

Interest income charged to sales partners



55,985





65,967





9,097

Interest on deposits with banks



5,242





11,162





1,539



























Total interest and fees income



827,120





884,501





121,978



























Interest expenses on interest-bearing borrowings



(388,194)





(366,286)





(50,513)



























Total interest and fees expenses



(388,194)





(366,286)





(50,513)



























Net interest and fees income



438,926





518,215





71,465



























Net revenue under the commercial bank partnership model(2)



863





50,059





6,903

Collaboration cost for sales partners



(156,202)





(165,583)





(22,834)



























Net interest and fees income after collaboration cost



283,587





402,691





55,534



























Provision for credit losses (1)



(54,863)





(129,621)





(17,876)



























Net interest and fees income after collaboration cost and

provision for credit losses



228,724





273,070





37,658



























Realized gains on sales of investments, net



16,432





15,718





2,168

Net losses on sales of loans(1)



(42,370)





(4,163)





(574)

Other gains, net



48,346





16,710





2,304



























Total non-interest income



22,408





28,265





3,898



























Operating expenses























Employee compensation and benefits



(91,650)





(94,962)





(13,096)

Share-based compensation expenses



(2,887)





-





-

Taxes and surcharges



(17,083)





(16,435)





(2,266)

Operating lease cost



(6,983)





(7,832)





(1,080)

Other expenses



(52,666)





(59,769)





(8,243)



























Total operating expenses



(171,269)





(178,998)





(24,685)



























Income before income tax expense



79,863





122,337





16,871

Income tax expense



(18,669)





(29,220)





(4,030)



























Net income



61,194





93,117





12,841



























Earnings per share























Basic



0.04





0.07





0.010

Diluted



0.04





0.06





0.008

Earnings per ADS (1 ADS equals 20 ordinary shares)























Basic



0.89





1.36





0.19

Diluted



0.80





1.22





0.17



























Other comprehensive losses























Foreign currency translation adjustment



8,867





7,378





1,017

Comprehensive income



70,061





100,495





13,858

Less: net income attributable to non-controlling interests



-





8,937





1,232

Total comprehensive income attributable to ordinary

shareholders



70,061





91,558





12,626



(1) In 2022, the majority of sales partners chose to fulfill their guaranteed obligations by making instalment

payments. When sales partners sign the creditor's rights transfer agreement, the loans to be transferred

will be recognized as "held-for-sale loans (HFS)", and HFS would be measured at the lower of the cost

and fair value. In 2022, the Company reassessed the fair value of HFS, such reassessment had led to

overstatement in net gains/(losses) on sales of loans as well as understatement in provision for credit

losses, which had no impact on net income in the three months ended June 30, 2022 and in the first half

of 2023. (2) To provide more relevant information, the line items of Interest income charged to sales partners and

Net revenue under the commercial bank partnership model, which were included in Interest and

financing service fees on loans in the three months ended June 30, 2022 have been shown in separate

items.

SOURCE CNFinance Holdings Limited
Upcoming webinar "Redefining the Association Experience" offers strategic insights from analyzed Member and Pro sentiments

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla., Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Community Brands is proud to reveal the eighth annual Association Trends Study, "Redefining the Association Experience: Opportunities to take the member experience (MX) from average to exceptional."

Join Community Brands for a deep dive into the comprehensive findings of the 2023 Association Trends Study. Well reveal insights into what shifts have emerged in member value, shine a light on how to close the gap between members and pros sentiments, and discuss how member engagement is vital to the member experience.

The free webinar on September 7 features AMS experts from Community Brands  the leading provider of software and payment solutions for associations, nonprofits, and K-12 schools  and survey conductors from Edge Research. Together they will dive deep into the comprehensive findings, highlight analyzed data from thousands of association members and pros, and explore compelling questions about current mindsets. Since 2016, Community Brands has conducted the association industry's only annual research study to include both pro and member perspectives.

New this year: A portion of this study's findings will be presented through Nucleus by Community Brands, the first data analytics solution for associations. Within Nucleus, association professionals can slice and dice data to gain deeper insights into various aspects of associations' priorities and take well-informed action.

With its focus on "Opportunities to take the member experience (MX) from average to exceptional," the 2023 study helps guide association strategies and offer actionable take-aways based on survey results. What attendees can expect to learn:

Evolving member values and generational engagement trends

Strategies to close the gap between member and pro sentiments

The vital relationship between member engagement and member experience

How to increase member value by offering resources beyond a job board

Ways to deeply engage with members and elevate member experience

"It's wonderful to see member loyalty metrics remain steady, but we're also seeing widening gaps, between members and pros, in the importance of member value benefits. Examining the data offers a better understanding of members' needs and wants, which creates clear areas of opportunity," said Jennifer Lee, President, Associations & Events, Community Brands. "We hope organizations will utilize this resource to improve their member experience and ultimately help grow their reach throughout all the industry changes."

A few 2023 Association Trends Study sneak peek insights:

Providing an exceptional member experience leads to higher member engagement and satisfaction.

Members look to their professional organization for job opportunities and valuable career development resources, but only two-thirds of Pros offer a job board.

Innovation is essential to maintain a competitive edge with professional education.

Similarly, Community Brands also launched the inaugural Event Trends research study earlier this year, offering insights tailored to the needs of event planners and industry professionals.

The downloadable 2023 Association Trends Study is automatically included in the webinar wrap-up email, before it goes live on the website, which means attendees will have first access to view "Redefining the Association Experience: Opportunities to take the member experience (MX) from average to exceptional."

Register for the webinar today

About Community Brands

Community Brands amplifies the impact of over 50,000 purpose-driven organizations in over 30 countries. Associations, nonprofits, and K-12 schools rely on our software and services to solve their most critical challenges: engage the people they serve, simplify operations, and grow revenue. Built with reliability at the core and strategically focused on events, education, careers, fundraising, financials, and operations, our family of brands is bound by a common purpose to serve the organizations that make our communities a better place to live. Learn more at communitybrands.com and follow us on LinkedIn and Facebook.

Media contact:

Jessi Cape

[email protected]

SOURCE Community Brands
CYBER Express to Bring Year-Round Indoor Car Detailing to Anchorage

ANCHORAGE, Alaska, Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- CYBER Express Wash (CYBER), a new car wash experience in partnership with Chugach Alaska Corporation (Chugach), has secured an additional Anchorage location at Denali and Calais for a car wash supercenter, featuring indoor vacuum stations and full-service detailing.

CYBER Express Wash Closes on New Supercenter Location to Bring Year-Round Indoor Car Detailing to Anchorage Post this Rendering of CYBER Express Supercenter in Anchorage AK; 35,000 sq. ft. state-of-the-art indoor car detailing facility CYBER Express Wash announces new fully indoor car wash and detail supercenter in Anchorage, AK

CYBER's new midtown property includes 35,000 sq. ft. of state-of-the-art indoor, climate-controlled design promising complete indoor wash and detail services year-round. "Alaskans understand the unique fears of having car doors frozen shut or having to vacuum in frigid temperatures; we're eliminating these concerns altogether and taking it one step further consumers can now fully vacuum their vehicles, wash their mats, and more from the comfort of our fully indoor heated facilities," says Paul Horstkoetter, Co-Founder of CYBER Express Wash.

CYBER's Supercenter will be the first of its kind in the state, conveniently located in the heart of Anchorage. On average CYBER's Supercenter promises an output of 350 exterior car washes per hour, with up to 60 fully detailed vehicles (interior and exterior) each hour. Average wait times for wash and full-service detail clock in at under 15 minutes, with an exterior only wash in just three minutes. CYBER's time-sensitive and efficient cleaning, coupled with their strategic real estate positioning, guarantees convenience for busy Alaskans who are on-the-go.

CYBER'S Supercenter model is centered around the complementary intersection of technology and quality, says Horstkoetter. "Although our system is heavily automated, expertly trained staff are always on hand, allowing our customers to choose between an interactive or fully automated contactless experience. Our goal is two-fold: a top-notch best-in-class wash and the absolute best in customer service."

With their added supercenter opening February 2024, CYBER provides additional value and services complimentary to future sites including Highway 1. At CYBER's Supercenter, self-service interior vacuums are included with every car wash, even if washing at another site, pending CYBER membership.

CYBER's Supercenter is a welcome addition to Anchorage's midtown architecture and will serve to bolster the local economy, providing 70+ ongoing jobs in addition to facility construction and development.

CYBER's business model is focused on increasing public access to high-quality car washing while fostering a culture of brand integrity from their state-of-the-art design and technology, to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) responsibility. "We see our Supercenter as the solution to Alaska's year-round car washing needs, with environmental and quality assurances sure to make every car owner proud," says Horstkoetter.

About CYBER Express Wash

Cyber Express is a pioneering company in the car wash industry. With a diverse team of experts and a commitment to innovation, Cyber Express sets new standards for quality, efficiency, and eco-friendly car washing. Through their cutting-edge technology and diverse expertise spanning real estate, retail, and automotive, Cyber Express brings an unwavering commitment to excellence delivering a customer experience unmatched in the industry. Learn more at www.cyberexpresswash.com .

About Chugach Alaska Corporation

Established in 1972 under the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act, Chugach Alaska Corporation exists to serve the interests of the Alaska Native people of the Chugach region with a focus on profitability, celebration of our heritage and ownership of our lands. Through responsible management of our lands, businesses and assets, we provide meaningful opportunities and benefits to our community of 2,800 shareholders. Chugach fulfills its mission through a range of investments and operating businesses that provide government, facilities and energy services. Learn more at www.chugach.com.

SOURCE CYBER Express Wash
NEWPORT BEACH, Calif., Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Tenant, Inc., the only purpose built vertical SaaS technology platform company which offers a complete ecosystem tailored to the Self-Storage industry, has recently partnered with Derrel's Mini Storage, Inc., to fully modernize the e-commerce and property management technology at their 63 locations.

Derrel's began their relationship with Tenant in 2020, when they transitioned their storage facilities to Tenant, Inc.'s self-storage website rental platform. Through the success of that relationship, they chose to continue to the next level by adopting Tenant, Inc.'s property management software, merchant platform, and digital marketing services to manage their operations.

"We consider it an accomplishment to have been chosen by Derrel's as a technology partner. Derrel's is one of the most respected companies in the storage industrytheir verticalized approach to the business, along with their groundbreaking management approach, have made them a highly-respected leader in the space with unparalleled business outcomes", said Lance Watkins, Tenant, Inc.'s CEO. "Derrel's management and promotional methodologies were so sophisticated that we had to step up our game to develop custom features and system integrations, such as complex promotions management and facility-to-facility payments. They are truly a partner that motivates us to continually innovate."

Derrel's has fully immersed in the Tenant technology ecosystem, from their website presence and property management operations, to payment processing and accounting. They spent considerable time researching technology platforms, and their decision to partner with Tenant, Inc., was determined by such features as access control management, billing and promotion cycle management, automation, and detailed reporting.

"We've been operating on the same platform for decades, so we were obviously concerned about migrating our processes to another technology stack. The integration took a great deal of collaboration and communication and was well-received by our staff and stakeholders", said Tosha Giuffrida, Derrel's VP of Operations. "Tenant, Inc., listened to our unique needs and worked closely with us to ensure that we were onboarded with care."

Derrel's is one of the most interesting private real estate portfolios in the U.S. In addition to owning their land, construction, and materials, they also pre-manufacture their products, and build their own doors, access systems, and climate control systems.

With over 90,000 customers in the Central Valley, they have the highest occupancy rates in the industry, and they lease their facilities in time frames that defy industry norms. Derrel's has the largest video surveillance system of any private operator in the world, which is also centrally managed.

About Tenant, Inc.

Tenant Inc. offers a cloud-based, all-in-one digital technology platform purpose-built for the Self-Storage Industry. Tenant Inc. provides a single platform of software as a service (SaaS) products, self-storage website, and technology solutions that give self-storage operators everything they need to run their business across point of sale, operations, and online rentals.

To learn more, please visit tenantinc.com

About Derrel's Mini Storage, Inc.

Derrel's Mini Storage, Inc. owns and operates 60 storage facilities across the Central Valley of California and ranks among the top five privately owned storage portfolios nationwide by square footage, nearing 12.3 million square feet of total open storage space and averaging more than 205,000 square feet per facility.

For more information, visit derrels.com

Contact Tenant Inc.

Marketing

Androniki Bossonis

[email protected]

Investor Relations

Bruce Heverly

[email protected]

SOURCE Tenant Inc.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, August 29. Sverdlovsk Region Governor Yevgeny Kuyvashev apologized to Azerbaijani Ambassador to Russia Polad Bulbuloglu in connection with the scandal with St. Petersburg City Duma Chairman Igor Volodin, who took part in an event against the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Azerbaijan Republic, Trend reports referring to the region's information policy department.

Kuyvashev expressed hope that the situation would be resolved.

According to media reports, Volodin will not be the speaker in the new convocation of the City Duma after this scandal.

Earlier, the Azerbaijani Embassy sent a note of protest to the Russian Foreign Ministry in connection with the event organized in St. Petersburg on August 7, 2023 on the occasion of the "30th anniversary of the formation of the Talysh-Mugan Autonomous Republic".

In addition, Ambassador Polad Bulbuloglu addressed a letter to the Governor of the Sverdlovsk Region Evgeny Kuyvashev reflecting Azerbaijan's principled position and strong protest. In addition, Shahin Shikhlinski, head of the Azerbaijan-Ural public national-cultural organization operating in St. Petersburg, sent appeals to the relevant administrative bodies of the city.

It was brought to the attention of the Russian side that organization of such an event of provocative nature and participation of the Chairman of St. Petersburg City Duma Igor Volodin as a guest at it is inadmissible, this step of the representative of the ruling party of Russia propagates separatism, fundamentally contradicts the spirit of allied interaction between Azerbaijan and Russia, as well as damages bilateral cooperation.

An urgent request was expressed to take immediate measures against Igor Volodin and the organizers of this event, as well as measures to prevent similar provocative steps against the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Azerbaijan in the future.
Digital Edge Marketing was ranked among the fastest-growing private companies in America on the 2023 Inc. 5000.

JACKSONVILLE, Fla., Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The B2B agency for the travel & tourism industry came in at 4,754 on this year's Inc. 5000, an annual list representing the most successful companies within the U.S. economy's most dynamic segments  its independent small businesses. Digital Edge ranked 463rd in the Advertising & Marketing Industry, 427th among Florida companies on this year's Inc. 5000 list, and 26th among companies in Jacksonville, Florida  where the agency is based.

This marks Digital Edge's third time on the Inc. 5000 list. The agency ranked 3,514 in 2020 and 3,434 in 2019.

This year's Inc. 5000 companies totaled $258 billion in 2022 revenue and created nearly 1.19 million jobs. Digital Edge, specifically, saw 83% growth over the last three years  and has grown to 17 employees since the company was created in 2011.

About Digital Edge

Digital Edge provides cutting-edge digital marketing solutions, off-the-charts creativity and strategic expertise for the travel & tourism industry, helping organizations connect with today's planning professionals in meetings, travel trade and sports. Visit www.digitaledge.marketing to explore the agency further.

About Inc. and the Inc. 5000

Inc. Media

Founded in 1979 and acquired in 2005 by Mansueto Ventures LLC, Inc. is the only major brand dedicated exclusively to owners and managers of growing private companies, with the aim to deliver real solutions for today's innovative company builders. In 1982, the Inc. 500, which showcased the fastest-growing privately held companies in the United States, was introduced. Twenty-five years later, the list was expanded to the Inc. 5000.

Inc. 5000 Methodology

Companies on the 2023 Inc. 5000 are ranked according to percentage revenue growth from 2019 to 2022. To qualify, companies must have been founded and generating revenue by March 31, 2019. They must be U.S.-based, privately held, for-profit, and independent  not subsidiaries or divisions of other companies  as of December 31, 2022. (Since then, some on the list may have gone public or been acquired.) The minimum revenue required for 2019 is $100,000; the minimum for 2022 is $2 million. As always, Inc. reserves the right to decline applicants for subjective reasons. Growth rates used to determine rankings were calculated to four decimal places.

Media Contact:

Mya Surrency

(833) 438-1110

[email protected]

SOURCE Digital Edge Marketing
Delivered record half year results with total revenue of RMB1.38 Billion, a 51.5% YoY growth

Store-level operating profit grew 123.6%; Adjusted Group EBITDA increased 128.6%

Added 84 net new stores in the 1H2023; Operating 672 stores across 20 cities, as of June 30

Six newly opened stores in newly entered cities broke Domino's Pizza global First-30-Day-Sales Record, demonstrating strong brand recognition and brand momentum

HONG KONG, Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- DPC Dash Ltd ("DPC Dash" or the "Company", together with its subsidiaries, the "Group") (1405.HK), the exclusive master franchisee of Domino's Pizza (NYSE: DPZ) in Mainland China, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of China and Macau Special Administrative Region of China, today announced its unaudited consolidated interim results for the six months ended June 30, 2023 (the "Interim Results") (the "Announcement").

FIRST HALF OF 2023 HIGHLIGHTS[1]

All comparisons were made on a year-over-year ("YoY") basis.

Revenues were RMB1.38 billion , representing an increase of 51.5% from RMB908.8 million for the corresponding period in 2022.

were , representing an increase of 51.5% from for the corresponding period in 2022. 84 Net new stores in the first half 2023, entered into 4 new cities in the same period with total store count at 672 across 20 cities, as of June 30, 2023 .

in the first half 2023, entered into 4 new cities in the same period with total store count at 672 across 20 cities, as of . Average daily sales per store was RMB12,275 for the six months ended June 30 , a 7.1% increase YoY. Average daily sales per store in New growth markets [2] were RMB11,316 , a 30.0% increase YoY.

was for the six months ended , a 7.1% increase YoY. Average daily sales per store in New growth markets were , a 30.0% increase YoY. Same-store sales growth (SSSG) was 8.8%, compared to 13.9% for the corresponding period in 2022 and 14.4% for the full year of 2022, continuing the trend of 24 consecutive positive quarterly SSSG since 3Q2017, a healthy and strong sales growth path.

was 8.8%, compared to 13.9% for the corresponding period in 2022 and 14.4% for the full year of 2022, continuing the trend of 24 consecutive positive quarterly SSSG since 3Q2017, a healthy and strong sales growth path. Store-level EBITDA was RMB257.4 million , representing an increase of 86.1% from RMB138.3 million for the corresponding period in 2022. Store-level EBITDA margin was 18.7%, compared to 15.2% for the corresponding period in 2022.

was , representing an increase of 86.1% from for the corresponding period in 2022. was 18.7%, compared to 15.2% for the corresponding period in 2022. Store-level operating profit was RMB186.3 million , representing an increase of 123.6% from RMB83.3 million for the corresponding period in 2022. Store-level operating profit margin was 13.5%, compared to 9.2% for the corresponding period in 2022.

was , representing an increase of 123.6% from for the corresponding period in 2022. was 13.5%, compared to 9.2% for the corresponding period in 2022. Adjusted EBITDA was RMB127.0 million , representing an increase of 128.6% from RMB55.6 million for the corresponding period in 2022. Adjusted EBITDA margin was 9.2%, compared 6.1% for the corresponding period in 2022.

was , representing an increase of 128.6% from for the corresponding period in 2022. was 9.2%, compared 6.1% for the corresponding period in 2022. Adjusted Net Loss narrowed by 74.7% to negative RMB17.4 million , compared to negative RMB68.9 million for the corresponding period in 2022.

narrowed by 74.7% to negative , compared to negative for the corresponding period in 2022. Total Loyalty Members was 10.9 million, compared to 7.0 million for the corresponding period in 2022, a 55.7% increase.

COMPANY STATEMENT

Ms. Aileen Wang, CEO & Executive Director of DPC Dash commented, "We are pleased to deliver record-setting results in the first half of 2023, with total revenues of RMB1.38 billion, combined with 13.5% store-level operating margin." Ms. Wang added, "These strong results are a true reflection of years of hard work and dedication from every single one of our employees."

Ms. Wang continued, "We would also like to sincerely thank our loyal customers who have supported us throughout the years. Their continuous support motivates us in our efforts to continue to deliver our innovative product while maximizing convenience. We will continue to expand our footprint into new cities across China and the greater region, in what we believe represents an underserved market."

Ms. Helen Wu, CFO of DPC Dash, commented, "We grew our topline revenue 51.5% YoY relative to this period last year while our store level EBITDA grew 86.1% YoY, which positions us as one of the fast growing companies within the consumer discretionary sector in the greater China region." Ms. Wu further stated, "Our new stores in Wuhan, Jinan, Chengdu, Wenzhen and Qingdao successively broke Domino's global First 30-Day-Sales Record, demonstrating Domino's strong brand recognition in China, as well as our ability to expand and replicate."

Ms. Wu continued, "We have achieved both strong revenue growth and good margin improvements during the first half of 2023, accelerating our pace to group overall profitability. Going forward, we will look to continue building upon this strong foundation to further grow our topline revenue, improve operating efficiency and create greater economies of scale. We are well on track to achieve the overall profitability of the business for the Group."

FIRST HALF 2023 FINANCIAL OVERVIEW

Revenue was RMB1.38 billion for the six months ended June 30, 2023, that represents an increase of 51.5% from RMB908.8 million in the same period 2022. Revenue growth was mainly attributable to (a) the increase in the average daily sales per store and (b) the increased number of stores in operation during the respective periods.

Store-level EBITDA was RMB257.4 million, representing an increase of 86.1% from RMB138.3 million for the corresponding period in 2022. Store-level EBITDA margin was 18.7%, compared to 15.2% for the corresponding period in 2022.

Store-level operating profit was RMB186.3 million, representing an increase of 123.6% from RMB83.3 million for the corresponding period in 2022. Store-level operating profit margin was 13.5%, compared to 9.2% for the corresponding period in 2022.

Net profit was RMB8.8 million for the six months ended June 30, 2023, compared to a net loss of RMB95.5 million for the six months ended June 30, 2022.

Adjusted EBITDA was RMB127.0 million, representing an increase of 128.6% from RMB55.6 million for the corresponding period in 2022. Adjusted EBITDA margin was 9.2%, as compared 6.1% for the corresponding period in 2022.

Adjusted Net profit (loss) was negative RMB17.4 million, compared to negative RMB68.9 million for the corresponding period in 2022.

Basic and diluted net profit per share was RMB0.08 and RMB0.07 for the six months ended June 30, 2023, respectively, compared to basic and diluted net loss per share of RMB1.00 and RMB1.00 for the six months ended June 30, 2022, respectively.

Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash were RMB1,029.1 million as of June 30, 2023, compared to RMB544.5 million as of December 31, 2022. The increase primarily resulted from the net proceeds raised from the Global Offering in March 2023 and cash inflow generated from operating activities.

KEY OPERATING DATA



As of

Jun 30, Dec 31 Jun 30,

2022 2022 2023







Total stores 508 588 672 Number of cities entered 12 16 20 Loyalty membership numbers 7.0 million 8.6 million 10.9 million





6-Months

Ending Jun 30, Full Year

Ending Dec 31, 6-Months

Ending Jun 30,

2022 2022 2023 Same-store sales growth (SSSG) (%) 13.9 % 14.4 % 8.8 % Average Daily Sales per Store 11,462 11,445 12,275 Delivery as % of Revenue (%) 71.5 % 72.9 % 63.6 %

Outlook/Guidance

Building on a net opening of 84 new stores in the first half of 2023, the Company has newly opened 20 additional stores, with 28 other stores under construction and 25 stores signed or approved as of 20 August 2023. This progress puts the Company well on track to achieve its 2023 full-year opening target of approximately 180 stores.

The Company further plans to open an additional 240 stores in 2024.

KEY DEFINITIONS

Store-level operating profit represents revenue less operational costs incurred at the store level, comprising salary-based expense, raw materials and consumables cost, depreciation of right-of-use assets, depreciation of plant and equipment, amortization of intangible assets, variable lease rental payment and short-term rental expenses, utilities expenses, advertising and promotion expenses, store operating and maintenance expenses and other expenses.

represents revenue less operational costs incurred at the store level, comprising salary-based expense, raw materials and consumables cost, depreciation of right-of-use assets, depreciation of plant and equipment, amortization of intangible assets, variable lease rental payment and short-term rental expenses, utilities expenses, advertising and promotion expenses, store operating and maintenance expenses and other expenses. Store-level operating profit margin is calculated by dividing store-level operating profit by revenue for the same period.

is calculated by dividing store-level operating profit by revenue for the same period. Store-level EBITDA is defined as store-level operating profit for the period and adding back depreciation of plant and equipment and amortization of intangible assets in store-level.

is defined as store-level operating profit for the period and adding back depreciation of plant and equipment and amortization of intangible assets in store-level. Store-level EBITDA margin is calculated by dividing Store EBITDA by revenue for the same period.

is calculated by dividing Store EBITDA by revenue for the same period. Net new store openings. The number of gross new stores opened during the period minus the number of stores closed during the period.

The number of gross new stores opened during the period minus the number of stores closed during the period. Same-store sales growth (SSSG). The percentage difference in sales generated by same stores across two consecutive periods, where same stores are those stores that have been open for at least 18 months as of the end of latter period, provided that for a given same store in a given period, only the sales it generates after it qualifies as a same store are included in the calculation of SSSG and such sales are compared against the sales generated by the store in the comparable days of the prior period.

The percentage difference in sales generated by same stores across two consecutive periods, where same stores are those stores that have been open for at least 18 months as of the end of latter period, provided that for a given same store in a given period, only the sales it generates after it qualifies as a same store are included in the calculation of SSSG and such sales are compared against the sales generated by the store in the comparable days of the prior period. Average Daily Sales per Store is calculated by dividing revenues generated from relevant store in a particular period by the aggregate number of days of operation for such store in the same period.

is calculated by dividing revenues generated from relevant store in a particular period by the aggregate number of days of operation for such store in the same period. Average orders per store per day is calculated by dividing the aggregate number of orders placed by total customers in the store for a particular period by the aggregate number of days of operation for such store in the same period.

is calculated by dividing the aggregate number of orders placed by total customers in the store for a particular period by the aggregate number of days of operation for such store in the same period. Adjusted Net Loss is defined as profit/(loss) for the period and adding back fair value change of financial liabilities at fair value through profit or loss, share-based compensation and listing expenses.

is defined as profit/(loss) for the period and adding back fair value change of financial liabilities at fair value through profit or loss, share-based compensation and listing expenses. Adjusted EBITDA is defined as Adjusted Net Loss for the period and adding back depreciation and amortization (excluding depreciation of right-of-use assets), income tax expense and finance cost, net (excluding net foreign exchange losses on financing activities).

Non-IFRS Measures

To supplement the Group's consolidated financial statements that are presented in accordance with the International Financial Reporting Standards ("IFRS"), we also use Adjusted Net Loss (non-IFRS measure), Adjusted EBITDA (non-IFRS measure) and Store-level EBITDA (non-IFRS measure) as additional financial measures, which are not required by, or presented in accordance with, IFRS. We believe that these non-IFRS measures facilitate comparisons of operating performance from period to period and company to company. We believe that these measures provide useful information to investors and others in understanding and evaluating our results of operations in the same manner as they help our management. However, our presentation of Adjusted Net Loss (non-IFRS measure), Adjusted EBITDA (non-IFRS measure) and Store-level EBITDA (non-IFRS measure) may not be comparable to similarly titled measures presented by other companies. The use of such non-IFRS measures has limitations as an analytical tool, and you should not consider them in isolation from, or as substitute for analysis of, our results of operations or financial condition as reported under IFRS.

CONFERENCE CALL

The Company will host a conference call today, Tuesday, August 29, 2023, at 7:00 pm Hong Kong Time (or Tuesday, August 29, 2023, at 7:00 am Eastern Time) to discuss the financial results.

Participants may access the call by dialing the following numbers:

United States Toll Free: +1-888-317-6003 International: +1-412-317-6061 Mainland China Toll Free: 400-120-6115 Hong Kong Toll Free: 800-963-976 Hong Kong  Unassisted 852-5808-1995 Conference ID: 7105367

The replay will be accessible through September 5, 2023, by dialing the following numbers:

United States Toll Free: +1-877-344-7529 International: +1-412-317-0088 Access Code: 7931837

Forward-Looking Statements

Certain statements in this document and/or the Announcement are forward-looking statements that are, by their nature, subject to significant risks and uncertainties. Any statements that express, or involve discussions as to, expectations, beliefs, plans, objectives, assumptions, future events, or performance (often, but not always, through the use of words or phrases such as "will", "expect", "anticipate", "estimate", "believe", "going forward", "ought to", "may", "seek", "should", "intend", "plan", "projection", "could", "vision", "goals", "aim", "aspire", "objective", "target", "schedules", and "outlook") are not historical facts, are forward-looking and may involve estimates and assumptions and are subject to risks (including but not limited to the risk factors detailed in this document and/or the Announcement), uncertainties and other factors some of which are beyond the Company's control and which are difficult to predict. Accordingly, these factors could cause actual results or outcomes to differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking statements. The Company's forward-looking statements have been based on assumptions and factors concerning future events that may prove to be inaccurate. Those assumptions and factors are based on information currently available to the Company about the businesses that it operates. The risks, uncertainties and other factors, many of which are beyond the Company's control, that could influence actual results include, but are not limited to: the Company's operations and business prospects; its business and operating strategies and ability to implement such strategies; its ability to develop and manage its operations and business; its ability to control costs and expenses; its ability to identify and satisfy customer demands and preferences; the actions and developments of its competitors; general economic, political and business conditions in the markets in which it operates; and changes to regulatory and operating conditions in the industry and geographical markets in which it operates.

Since actual results or outcomes could differ materially from those expressed in any forward-looking statements, the Company strongly cautions investors against placing undue reliance on any such forward-looking statements. Any forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date on which such statement is made, and, except as required by the Rules Governing the Listing of Securities on The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited or under applicable law, the Company undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statement to reflect events or circumstances after the date on which such statement is made or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events. Statements of, or references to, the Company's intentions or those of any of its Directors are made as of the date of this document and/or the Announcement (as applicable). Any such intentions may change in light of future developments.

The Company's shareholders and potential investors are advised not to place undue reliance on the Interim Results and to exercise caution in dealing in securities in the Company.

About DPC Dash Ltd

DPC Dash Ltd is Domino's Pizza's exclusive master franchisee in the China mainland, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of China and the Macau Special Administrative Region of China. Domino's Pizza, Inc., DPC Dash Ltd's global franchisor, is one of the most widely-recognized global consumer brands and the world's largest pizza company. Led by a seasoned and visionary management team, DPC Dash Ltd is a market leader that differentiates from competitors with, among others, a continually developed and localized pizza-focused menu, unique expertise and leadership in delivery, technology focus and scalable and replicable store economic model.

DPC Dash Ltd directly operates 692 stores across 20 cities in China mainland as of August 20, 2023. The Company is the fastest growing among China's top-five pizza brands, as well as the third-largest in terms of 2022 revenue, according to a report by Frost & Sullivan in March 2023.

For more information, please visit www.dpcdash.com

For official company announcements, please visit www.hkexnews.hk

CONTACTS

DPC Dash Ltd Investor Relations:

ICR, LLC

[email protected]

DPC Dash Ltd Media Relations:

ICR, LLC

[email protected]

[1] Please refer to the section "KEY DEFINITIONS" below for detailed definitions on certain terms used. [2] New growth markets refer to Shenzhen, Guangzhou, Hangzhou, Tianjin, Nanjing, Suzhou, Wuxi, Ningbo, Foshan, Dongguan, Zhuhai, Zhongshan, Wuhan, Jinan, Chengdu, Qingdao, Wenzhou and Changzhou.

CONDENSED INTERIM CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME



Six months ended June 30,

2023 2022

RMB'000 RMB'000

(Unaudited)







Revenue 1,376,370 908,789 Raw materials and consumables cost (380,446) (247,193) Staff compensation expenses (545,772) (336,908) Depreciation of right-of-use assets (108,385) (90,984) Depreciation of plant and equipment (72,241) (56,673) Amortization of intangible assets (25,541) (23,477) Utilities expenses (49,272) (37,305) Advertising and promotion expenses (81,077) (53,873) Store operation and maintenance expenses (84,940) (57,676) Variable lease rental payment, short-term rental and other related

expenses (30,993) (14,231) Other expenses (67,772) (45,211) Fair value change of financial liabilities at fair value through profit

or loss ("FVPL") 119,331 (1,079) Other income 12,716 19,889 Other losses, net (4,584) (1,587) Finance costs, net (29,298) (48,218)





Profit/(loss) before income tax 28,096 (85,737) Income tax expense (19,345) (9,738)





Profit/(loss) for the period attributable to equity holders

of the Company 8,751 (95,475)





Other comprehensive profit/(losses):



Item that may be subsequently reclassified to profit or loss



Currency translation differences (11,878) (15,498)





Item that may not be subsequently reclassified to profit or loss



Currency translation differences 55,597 (13,668) Changes in the fair value attributable to own credit risk change - (49)





Other comprehensive profit/(loss) for the period, net of

tax 43,719 (29,215)





Total comprehensive profit/(loss) for the period

attributable to equity holders of the Company 52,470 (124,690)





Earnings/(loss) per share for profit/(loss) attributable to

equity holders of the Company



- Basic earnings/(loss) per share (RMB) 0.08 (1.00) - Diluted earnings/(loss) per share (RMB) 0.07 (1.00)

CONDENSED INTERIM CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET





As at June 30, As at December 31,

2023 2022

RMB'000 RMB'000

(Unaudited)







ASSETS



Non-current assets



Plant and equipment 551,348 496,004 Right-of-use assets 865,423 764,815 Intangible assets 1,228,635 1,242,399 Prepayment and deposits 48,260 40,456 Deferred income tax assets 36,519 37,154

2,730,185 2,580,828





Current assets



Inventories 56,456 66,879 Trade receivables 4,909 8,291 Prepayment, deposits and other receivables 82,769 69,150 Cash and cash equivalents 1,028,891 544,247 Restricted cash 200 214

1,173,225 688,781





Total assets 3,903,410 3,269,609





EQUITY



Equity attributable to equity holders of the Company



Share capital 877,957 655,061 Share premium 2,249,714 1,162,036 Other reserves 69,925 40,023 Accumulated losses (1,086,895) (1,091,161) Shares held for restricted share units ("RSUs") (1,731) (12,834)





Total equity 2,108,970 753,125





LIABILITIES



Non-current liabilities



Borrowings 200,000 200,000 Financial liabilities at fair value through profit or loss - 858,894 Lease liabilities 730,742 649,975 Other payables 16,240 12,184

946,982 1,721,053





Current liabilities



Lease liabilities 204,343 180,247 Trade payables 128,193 126,746 Contract liabilities 35,990 31,119 Accruals and other payables 469,994 440,700 Current income tax liabilities 8,938 16,619

847,458 795,431





Total liabilities 1,794,440 2,516,484





Total equity and liabilities 3,903,410 3,269,609





Net current assets/(liabilities) 325,767 (106,650)

SOURCE DPC Dash Ltd
$250,000 to the American Red Cross' disaster responder program

to the American Red Cross' disaster responder program $50,000 to the Volunteer Florida Foundation, which assists Florida communities during times of emergency or disaster

CHARLOTTE, N.C., Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- In advance of Hurricane Idalia's landfall, the Duke Energy Foundation has donated $300,000 to support disaster response and relief efforts.

The funds will help the American Red Cross respond immediately, meeting the needs of individuals and families affected by disasters, like Hurricane Idalia, including emergency services and supplies. Volunteer Florida will receive $50,000 to support aid as part of the coordinated disaster response.

"We are committed to supporting communities with disaster preparedness to help them respond more quickly before and after disasters," said Amy Strecker, Duke Energy Foundation president. "The Red Cross provides critical relief and recovery services across Duke Energy's service territories, and we're thankful for how they care for our customers and communities."

Over the past five years, Duke Energy and its Foundation have donated more than $2.4 million to the American Red Cross in support of disaster relief.

"We count on disaster responder members like Duke Energy because they understand the importance of being prepared before a disaster strikes so we can respond immediately," said Anne McKeough, chief development officer, American Red Cross. "Duke Energy has been a disaster partner for years, and their generous support will help ensure we can continue to build our capacity and resources ahead of time, keep up with the pace of disasters and assist people in their darkest hours."

To contribute to the Florida Disaster Fund, visit floridadisasterfund.org or text DISASTER to 20222.

Contributions to support the American Red Cross can be made here.

Duke Energy Foundation

The Duke Energy Foundation provides philanthropic support to meet the needs of communities where Duke Energy customers live and work. The foundation contributes more than $30 million annually in charitable gifts, and is funded by Duke Energy shareholder dollars. More information can be found at duke-energy.com/foundation.

Duke Energy (NYSE: DUK), a Fortune 150 company headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., is one of America's largest energy holding companies. Its electric utilities serve 8.2 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Indiana, Ohio and Kentucky, and collectively own 50,000 megawatts of energy capacity. Its natural gas unit serves 1.6 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Ohio and Kentucky. The company employs 27,600 people.

Duke Energy is executing an aggressive clean energy transition to achieve its goals of net-zero methane emissions from its natural gas business by 2030 and net-zero carbon emissions from electricity generation by 2050. The company has interim carbon emission targets of at least 50% reduction from electric generation by 2030, 50% for Scope 2 and certain Scope 3 upstream and downstream emissions by 2035, and 80% from electric generation by 2040. In addition, the company is investing in major electric grid enhancements and energy storage, and exploring zero-emission power generation technologies such as hydrogen and advanced nuclear.

Duke Energy was named to Fortune's 2023 "World's Most Admired Companies" list and Forbes' "World's Best Employers" list. More information is available at duke-energy.com. The Duke Energy News Center contains news releases, fact sheets, photos and videos. Duke Energy's illumination features stories about people, innovations, community topics and environmental issues. Follow Duke Energy on Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook.

Contact: Shawna Berger

24-Hour: 800.559.3853

Twitter: @DE_ShawnaB

SOURCE Duke Energy
AEM13920 gives valuable new flexibility to deploy the ideal mix of PV, RF, thermal and kinetic energy sources for the application

LOUVAIN-LA-NEUVE, Belgium, Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- e-peas, the leading supplier of energy harvesting ICs, today launched its first PMIC that can handle simultaneous inputs from two independent harvested energy sources.

The new AEM13920 can maximize the energy harvested from any combination of two sources, including photovoltaic (PV) cells, a thermo-electric generator (TEG), RF energy harvester, or pulsed (kinetic) energy sources. Before the introduction of the AEM13920, specialized PMICs have been optimized for a single type of energy harvester.

e-peas introduces first energy harvesting PMIC to handle two independent energy sources at the same time

The flexible dual-source capability opens up interesting new design options for the use of energy harvesting in small electronics devices such as remote controls, PC peripherals, wireless sensors and more. For instance, a remote control could have separate PV cells on its front and rear, to maintain an energy input whether the device is left face up or face down. A smart wireless light switch could operate on mechanical energy for short RF transmissions, and on stored mechanical or light energy for longer operations such as downloading and installing a firmware update.

In these and other applications, the AEM13920 provides a complete power management solution which maximizes energy recovery from the source. In the AEM13920, e-peas has also added valuable new features for system optimization and protection.

The PMIC achieves ultra-high source-to-storage and storage-to-load conversion efficiencies of higher than 90%. Independent maximum power point tracking (MPPT) algorithms for each source, and an ultra-low cold-start input condition of 275 mV/5 W, maximize the amount of energy drawn from any type of harvester. The AEM13920 also offers the option of constant source-voltage regulation.

Use of the AEM13920 simplifies power-system development and minimizes component count and bill-of-materials cost, because it implements in a single chip all the functions required to store and use energy from an external harvester. Two independent on-chip boost converters manage source voltage conversion and the supply to the storage element. A separate on-chip buck regulator converts the output from the storage element to a fixed voltage required by the application between 0.6 V and 2.5 V. The AEM13920 also manages a 5 V power input, which can be used to charge the storage element in the event of a prolonged period of operation without an input from an energy harvester.

New control and configuration features introduced in the AEM13920 include:

Average Power Monitoring  a circuit which measures total energy transferred from each of the two sources to storage, and total energy supplied to the load. This enables the host microcontroller to calculate the state of charge of the storage element, and to monitor system operation in detail.

I2C interface for control of 33 register settings by the host MCU, and for system data read-outs

The AEM13920 also offers a full suite of system monitoring and protection features, including:

Thermal monitoring of the storage element

Selectable over-charge and over-discharge limits for protection of the storage element

Shipping mode to protect the storage element

The AEM13920 is compatible with many types of rechargeable batteries and storage elements, including lithium-polymer, LiFP and li-ceramic batteries, and hybrid lithium capacitors.

Christian Ferrier, Chief Marketing Officer of e-peas, said: 'e-peas has been pioneering the technology of energy harvesting for years, and the AEM13920 is the latest product of our innovation  a fully integrated PMIC that enables designers to use the combination of two energy sources that is exactly right for their application.

'And because our technology is so efficient and effective, the AEM13920 should encourage more OEMs to stop relying on wasteful primary batteries, and so reduce the amount of electrical waste that goes to landfill.'

The AEM13920 is supplied in a 40-pin QFN package with a board footprint of 5mm x 5mm. It is available for sampling now. For sample requests and for information about the 2AAEM13920J051 evaluation board, go to www.e-peas.com.

About e-peas

e-peas develops and markets disruptive ultra-low power semiconductor technology. This enables industrial and IoT wireless product designers to substantially extend battery lifespans and eliminate the heavy call-out costs of replacing batteries, without in any way compromising on reliability. Relying on 15 years of research and patented intellectual property, the company's products increase the amount of harvested energy and drastically reduce the energy consumption of all power consuming blocks within wireless sensor nodes. Headquartered in Mont-Saint-Guibert, Belgium, with additional offices in Switzerland and the USA, e-peas offers a portfolio of energy harvesting power management interface ICs, microcontrollers and sensor solutions.

For more information, please visit e-peas' website at https://www.e-peas.com.

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2194551/e_peas_1.jpg

SOURCE e-peas
BEIJING, Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- FOTON, on its 27th anniversary, marked the occasion with a grand brand rejuvenation launch event. Held at the Simatai Great Wall in Beijing, China, the event showcased FOTON's new brand philosophy and future strategies.

EASY MOVE, FOTON BRAND REJUVENATION STRATEGY UNVEILED.

During the event, FOTON unveiled five major business strategies and a revamped brand identity, illustrating the company's ambitious vision for its future development. Chairman of Foton Motor Group, Chang Rui, emphasized the customer-centric approach and the five business strategies that will guide FOTON's trajectory, emphasizing technological empowerment, innovative business models, and global operations. With a focus on the dual-carbon strategy, new energy strategy, digital ecosystem construction, globalization, and refreshed brand strategy, FOTON aims to accelerate innovation, effectively addressing industry challenges and opportunities.

FOTON will expedite innovative transformation, seizing the opportunities presented by the "dual-carbon strategy." The company will continue to elevate its pace, innovation, and achievements. It targets carbon peak in 2028, core factory carbon neutrality by 2035, and complete value chain carbon neutrality by 2050.

Accelerating the transition to new energy vehicles, FOTON will target urban markets, city clusters, and long-haul logistics markets. It will focus on pure electric, hydrogen fuel, and hybrid technologies to expedite the layout of new energy vehicle products, aiming for a 20% penetration rate of new energy vehicle products by 2025 and 50% by 2030.

Efforts will be made to construct an efficient digital ecosystem. By innovating marketing models, FOTON will drive dealerships to transition from traditional sales and service to customer-centric operations, including used vehicles, operational leasing, and energy supply.

Unwaveringly advancing the strategy of global development, FOTON aims to achieve scalable growth, consolidate market foundations in developing countries, expedite national industrial layout, and seize opportunities to enter developed markets.

Rooted in the key node of accelerated evolution in the new energy transformation, FOTON embarks on its fourth brand rejuvenation, unveiling a fresh brand strategy  "Easy Move." Chairman Chang Rui expressed, "We envision a future where people, vehicles, goods, energy, digits, and value can move freely in space and time, interacting seamlessly between the virtual and the real. This strategy mirrors our development approach and aspires towards a brighter future." The brand identity also undergoes evolution, characterized by a smarter, lighter, and more technological design.

The first half of 2023 has seen remarkable performance from FOTON. Its sales have consistently led in various months, with cumulative sales surpassing 11 million units, once again setting a new global record for commercial vehicle sales. The introduction of AMT products throughout its entire range has set a new benchmark for automatic transmission development in China's commercial vehicle sector. The unveiling of FOTON's fresh brand rejuvenation strategy is set to lead FOTON's active pursuit of the "dual-carbon" goal, aiming to achieve the vision of "EASY MOVE."

SOURCE Foton International
IDEO.org and industry leaders support renewal of coffee program

OAKLAND, Calif., Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Fair Trade USA today announced key elements of its Innovation for Impact Initiative  a multi-stakeholder engagement and design lab aimed at developing a more scalable, higher-impact Fair Trade Certified coffee program.

To drive this initiative, Fair Trade USA is partnering with IDEO.org, an award-winning design consulting firm specializing in innovation for social impact. IDEO.org will deeply engage producers, industry, and other key stakeholders in the design process; develop prototypes for rapid testing and learning; help evaluate results; and support the subsequent roll-out of new program features, all with an eye toward increasing impact.

Fair Trade USA announced key elements of its groundbreaking Innovation for Impact Initiative. Post this

Fair Trade USA also introduced the members of its new Coffee Impact Advisory Board. These leaders and experts from the global coffee supply chain reflect the rich diversity and experience of the Fair Trade Certified community. The Advisory Board will provide critical input and guidance on the Innovation for Impact Initiative and help define support for new program solutions.

The Coffee Impact Advisory Board is chaired by Rudiger Meyer, the founder and former CEO of FLOCERT.

Other distinguished members include:

Lindsey Bolger , Former SVP and Managing Director of Keurig Trading, USA

, Former SVP and Managing Director of Keurig Trading, Jorge Cuevas , Chief Coffee Officer at Sustainable Harvest Importers, USA

, Chief Coffee Officer at Sustainable Harvest Importers, Guido Fernandez , Executive Vice President of the Colombian Coffee Federation Inc., Colombia

, Executive Vice President of the Colombian Coffee Federation Inc., Carlos Murillo , President of EXPOCERT, a leading coffee broker based in Costa Rica , and former Board member of Utz Certified, Fairtrade Netherlands, and Fairtrade Germany

, President of EXPOCERT, a leading coffee broker based in , and former Board member of Utz Certified, Fairtrade Netherlands, and Fairtrade Germany Alain Nzigamasabo, Senior VP & General Merchandising Manager for Grocery & Beverage at Sam's Club, USA

Abdias Ortiz, CEO of Aprocassi (Fair Trade Coffee Cooperative), Peru

Angela Pelaez , Sustainability Manager at RGC Coffee Americas, Colombia

, Sustainability Manager at RGC Coffee Americas, Jerome Perez, Global Head of Sustainability at Nespresso, Switzerland

Ivania Rivera , Senior Coffee Trader at Aldea Global (Fair Trade Coffee Cooperative), Nicaragua

, Senior Coffee Trader at Aldea Global (Fair Trade Coffee Cooperative), Matt Smith , EVP of Supply Chain and Sustainability at Westrock Coffee, USA

, EVP of Supply Chain and Sustainability at Westrock Coffee, Carlos Vargas , CEO of various Fair Trade Coffee Cooperatives, Costa Rica

Fair Trade USA's announcement follows an extensive stakeholder consultation and listening tour during the last four months. Through surveys and direct interviews, Fair Trade USA engaged more than 500 roasters, importers, and retailers, and nearly 400 producer organizations.

"Our recent listening tour uncovered overwhelming demand across stakeholder groups for program renewal. Coffee producers want to sell more volume on Fair Trade Certified terms. They understand that price alone will not solve their problems. The industry wants greater transparency and data on impact. All stakeholders want a stronger response to climate change. Fair Trade USA will focus on innovation that addresses these core challenges faced by industry and producers," said Paul Rice, Founder & CEO, Fair Trade USA.

"Cumulatively, Fair Trade USA has delivered over $1 billion in impact to farmers and workers worldwide," said Rudiger Meyer, Advisory Board Chair. "To generate the next billion, we must enlist the best creative thinking of our global stakeholder community to renew the Fair Trade Certified coffee program. The livelihoods of our producing families depend on it and I am excited to be able to contribute to that effort."

Rice founded Fair Trade USA in 1998 after returning from 11 years in Nicaragua, where he organized and ran the country's first Fair Trade coffee cooperative. Fair Trade USA has partnered with more than 1,500 leading industry partners across dozens of product categories. More than 65 percent of U.S. consumers now recognize its Fair Trade Certified label which they can find across more categories of products than any other social certification in the market.

For more information, please visit Fair Trade USA's Coffee Innovation webpage. You can also find consultation findings here.

About Fair Trade USA

Fair Trade USA, a tax-exempt 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, is the leading certifier of Fair Trade products in North America. Its award-winning, rigorous, and globally recognized sustainable sourcing certification programs improve livelihoods, protect the environment, and build resilient, transparent supply chains. The trusted Fair Trade Certified label on a product signifies that it was made according to stringent Fair Trade standards. Fair Trade USA is building an innovative model of responsible business, conscious consumerism, and shared value to eliminate poverty and enable sustainable development for farmers, workers, their families, and communities around the world.

Contact:

Fair Trade Public Relations

[email protected]

SOURCE Fair Trade USA
New Blood Orange Charged Splash also joins Panera's beverage lineup as a zero-sugar option for guests and Unlimited Sip Club members

ST. LOUIS, Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, Panera celebrates its seasonal fall menu drop with the return of its signature Cinnamon Crunch Latte and the debut of the new Ham, Egg & Cheese on a Cinnamon Crunch Bagel, available at Panera bakery-cafes nationwide starting August 30. Priced at $6.79  $7.79, this new breakfast sandwich brings together Black Forest Ham, scrambled egg, aged white cheddar and salt and pepper on a toasted Cinnamon Crunch Bagel for an irresistible combination to kickstart your morning. Panera also expanded its beverage lineup this week with the launch of the new, zero-sugar Blood Orange Charged Splash, perfect for those Panera fans still holding on to summer.

Panera Bread

"For years we've seen how much our guests love our Cinnamon Crunch Bagel, and it inspired us to create a sandwich with a sweet and savory combination that is delicious for breakfast and pairs perfectly with our Cinnamon Crunch Latte," said Claes Petersson, Head Chef and Chief Food Innovation Officer, Panera Bread. "Whether it is the warm, spicy flavors of cinnamon or the refreshing Blood Orange natural flavor, Panera's new offerings create a delicious menu for the changing seasons."

In addition to the new breakfast sandwich, Panera is bringing back the much-loved Cinnamon Crunch Latte to its specialty coffee lineup. Inspired by the Cinnamon Crunch Bagel, this seasonal beverage perfectly captures the essence of autumn with its warm flavors of cinnamon and espresso. Topped with a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar, the Cinnamon Crunch Latte is the ultimate indulgence for coffee lovers - whether enjoyed piping hot or over ice, this latte is a delightful treat that will satisfy fall cravings. Other fall favorites including Autumn Squash Soup, Turkey Chili and Pumpkin Cookies return to Panera bakery-cafes nationwide this week.

The new Blood Orange Charged Splash offers a boost of caffeine from guarana and green coffee extract and is made with zero sugar due to popular demand. Rounding out the brand's Charged Sip line, the Blood Orange Charged Splash is the latest beverage to join Panera's Unlimited Sip Club offerings. For only $11.99 per month plus tax, Panera's Unlimited Sip Club members have access to the entire Panera portfolio of self-serve beverages, including coffee, tea, soft beverages, Charged Sips and more.*

MyPanera members have enjoyed early access to try the Ham, Egg & Cheese on a Cinnamon Crunch Bagel and Panera's Cinnamon Crunch Latte since August 21 and can still do so today ahead of the national launch tomorrow. This exclusive early access perk is just one of the many benefits of joining the MyPanera Rewards program, which offers personalized rewards, surprises, and exclusive access to new menu items before the general public.

To order your favorites today, visit PaneraBread.com or download the Panera app.

*Unlimited Sip Club subscription is available for registration and redemption in participating U.S. Panera Bread bakery-cafes. Must be MyPanera member and at least 18 years of age to register. Registration available online only (including in-cafe kiosk). You may cancel at any time. If you do not cancel either before your renewal date or after the expiration of any free trial or discounted subscription offer, your stored payment method will automatically be charged $11.99 plus tax for monthly subscription and will be charged on recurring monthly basis every 30 days thereafter unless you cancel your subscription. To cancel subscription online, visit Manage Subscription section at www.panerabread.com/UnlimitedSipClub or on Panera Bread app. Subscription provides eligible subscribers the following subscription benefits: drip hot coffee, iced coffee, hot tea, fountain soda beverages, bubbler drinks (e.g., regular, sweet, and Passion Papaya green iced teas, and Agave Lemonade), and Charged Sip beverages once every two hours during normal bakery-cafe business hours, including unlimited refills. Beverages may vary by location and time of day. Excludes all other beverages, including, without limitation, packaged beverages, smoothies, frozen blended drinks, hot chocolate, cold brew iced coffee, and espresso and cappuccino beverages. Customizations, including, without limitation, added espresso and syrups (e.g., vanilla, chocolate, cinnamon, and caramel) are not included in subscription monthly price. Upcharges apply. Other additions (e.g., milk, skim milk, almond milk, half & half, and sweeteners) are included in monthly subscription price, but availability may vary by location and time of day. Limit one subscription per person. Excludes catering orders and orders placed on third-party delivery sites. Panera reserves the right in its sole discretion to offer additional or different subscription benefits to members based on geographic location, home bakery-cafe, program participation, period of recurring subscription, or other criteria. Other restrictions may apply. Visit here for complete terms https://www.panerabread.com/en-us/mypanera/subscription/terms-and-conditions.html.

About Panera Bread

Panera Bread opened in 1987 as a community bakery, founded with a secret sourdough starter and a belief that sharing great bread is an expression of warmth and generosity. That vision holds true today with a robust menu of delicious, chef-curated recipes created with a simple principle: The Familiar, Made Fantastic. At Panera, we serve food that we are proud to serve our own families, made with responsibly raised proteins and freshly prepared with Clean ingredients--food that does not contain the artificial preservatives, sweeteners, flavors, and colors from artificial sources set forth on our No-No list served in U.S. bakery-cafes. From crave-worthy soups, salads and sandwiches to flatbread pizza and sweets, we offer our guests more than great food. Our ethos of generosity drives us to meet our guests where they are through technology and through our shared values. We are stewards of our communities and the planet  with programs like Day-End Dough-Nation that donates unsold baked goods in the evening to local non-profits, or labeling climate-friendly low carbon Cool Food Meals.

As of July 25, 2023 there were 2,140 bakery-cafes, company and franchise, in 48 states and in Ontario, Canada, operating under the Panera Bread or Saint Louis Bread Co. names. Panera Bread is part of Panera Brands, one of the largest fast casual restaurant companies in the U.S., comprised of Panera Bread, Caribou Coffee and Einstein Bros. Bagels. For more information, visit panerabread.com or find us on Twitter (@panerabread), Facebook (facebook.com/panerabread) Instagram (@panerabread) or TikTok (@panerabread).

Media Contacts

ALISON BROD MARKETING + COMMUNICATIONS

[email protected]

SOURCE Panera Bread
Security firm offers practical and affordable ways for businesses to counteract new robbery techniques.

LOS ANGELES, Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Fast Guard Service offers practical ways for businesses to protect themselves against "Flash Mob" robberies, without breaking the bank. As if Californian businesses did not have enough problems, they must now deal with a relatively new phenomenon  "Flash Mob" robberies. As the name suggests, large groups of people, up to 30 at a time, enter high-end stores and run out with armfuls of luxury merchandise, escaping in multiple vehicles. Fast Guard Services has 12 practical suggestions for stores to prevent, or at least minimize such activities.

"Many of these suggestions will already be in place in most luxury stores," says President of Fast Guard Services Roderick Payne. "However, it's necessary to constantly review preventative measures and to involve the wider community. A proactive, well-rounded approach will dramatically reduce future incidents while keeping both customers and staff feeling safe and comfortable."

1. Risk assessment  identifying areas of vulnerability, e.g., store layout, high-risk hours, and types of merchandise likely to be targeted.

2. Surveillance cameras  upgraded security cameras, both visible and hidden, at vulnerable parts of the store.

3. Alarm systems  alarms connected to a central monitoring system that will trigger rapid responses.

4. Access control  implementation of turnstiles or electronic gates to limit the number of people entering the store simultaneously.

5. Security guard services  increased employment of visible security guards, particularly during high-risk hours.

6. Staff training  putting protocols in place for staff to recognize and react safely to threats.

7. Emergency drills  regular drills to enforce such protocols, and practice evacuation procedures.

8. Secure merchandise displays  placing of high-value items in locked showcases that require staff to open them.

9. Emergency communication  communication systems that enable staff to instantly alert security personnel and management.

10. Collaboration with police forces, other businesses, and the wider community.

11. Public awareness campaigns  encouraging the public to report suspicious activity.

12. Technological solutions  use of technology such as RFID tags that will trigger alarms if not removed by staff.

Visit our site for more ideas on crime prevention.

Fast Guard Service is a fully licensed/insured private security and protection agency owned and operated by certified law enforcement officers.

We offer trained uniformed guards, available armed and unarmed, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. All of our guards are certified crowd managers.

Clients

Fast Guard Service provides security services to Fortune 500 companies, celebrities, condominiums, hotels, events, and nightlife establishments.

Training

Our security guards are put through rigorous, in-depth training specified for each post assigned. They are uniformed in provided police-style uniforms or uniforms that are requested by the client.

We operate our own security training facility where we license and train all of our guards. Our guards are CPR/AED/First Aid certified.

Management

Our management team has experience in criminal justice and sworn law enforcement with a minimum of a Bachelors degree.

Security Instructor Certifications

Certified Crowd Manager Certification

Law Enforcement Instructor Certification

Interview and Interrogation Certification

Corrections Certification

K License Fire Arms Instructor Certification

Wild Land Fire Fighter Certification

Graduate Level Courses in Public Administration and Management

OUR MISSION

To provide professional security and investigative solutions customized to fit each individual client's needs while demonstrating responsiveness, diligence, and professionalism.

This press release was issued through 24-7PressRelease.com. For further information, visit http://www.24-7pressrelease.com.

SOURCE Fast Guard Service
Issues Highest Number of FASTSIGNS Sales Achievement Awards and Certifications

CARROLLTON, Texas, Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- FASTSIGNS International, Inc., the world's leading sign and visual graphics franchisor with more than 765 FASTSIGNS locations in eight countries worldwide, hosted its 13th annual Outside Sales Summit August 10-12 in Indianapolis, IN. There were over 596 people in attendance, which included attendees, corporate staff and exhibitors.

FASTSIGNS Outside Sales Summit 2023

With the theme, Rev It Up, the FASTSIGNS 2023 Outside Sales Summit celebrated the network's sales achievements between July 1, 2022 and June 30, 2023. At the awards event, 269 Outside Sales Professionals were recognized, including 56 who received the prestigious Platinum Award for achieving over $1 million in individual sales during the 12-month period. Additionally, 50 individuals became Certified FASTSIGNS Sales Executives after completing an extensive certification program during the same period, a record year for the network.

Angela Allison from FASTSIGNS of Lancaster, PA was recognized as this year's recipient of the Catherine Monson Salesperson of the Year Award. This is the fifth year for presenting the Catherine Monson Salesperson of the Year Award. With this award, FASTSIGNS recognizes one Outside Sales Professional who best represents the concept and the spirit of the brand, both in the business community and within the FASTSIGNS network.

"Our 13th Outside Sales Summit in Indianapolis this year was an exhilarating experience for FASTSIGNS attendees and especially memorable as my first as President of FASTSIGNS. This year we recognized the impressive achievements our sales professionals have made with the most awards given to date. The summit served as our strategic pit stop, a place to refuel and recharge our sales engines. Now, we're fully charged and primed to 'rev it up' and race ahead toward even greater success," shared Andrea Hohermuth, President of FASTSIGNS International, Inc.

Featured speakers included Author, Advisor and Catalyst, Walter Bond who spoke on "Having a Shark Mindset to Achieve Peak Performance" and Mike Weinberg, Best-Selling Author and Award-Winning Sales Leader who shared "A Foolproof Framework to Win More New Sales." Additional speakers covered a variety of topics including using AI to boost the sales process, the use of data to improve sales, building a sales toolkit and how sales professionals can better capture and convert leads, informative roundtable discussions and more.

FASTSIGNS franchisees and their employees, vendors and FASTSIGNS International, Inc. corporate staff also participated in the FASTSIGNS Community Giveback "Breakfast with a Purpose" event to assemble 200 care packages for hospitalized and homeless veterans at the Indianapolis VA Medical Center. This giveback event was also made possible by the generous support of the FASTSIGNS Community Giveback sponsors including CareerPlug, Howmac, Kelly Spicers, NW Quik Pull, Royal Printing, Versa-Tags, Advertising Specialty Institute (ASI), Grimco, Howard Ind, Kapco, Hanson Signs and Retreva (Click2Sell).

Some 93 vendors participated at this year's Outside Sales Summit Event, including Epson, FELLERS, and Grimco all of whom were Diamond Sponsors. The Opening Night Networking Party was sponsored by Retreva (Click2Sell).

About FASTSIGNS

FASTSIGNS is a leading national visual ideas company that creates a wide variety of comprehensive sign and graphics solutions. With over 35 years of experience, FASTSIGNS helps you achieve more than you ever thought possible. We are the worldwide franchisor of more than 765 independently owned and operated FASTSIGNS centers. FASTSIGNS locations span across the United States, Puerto Rico, the United Kingdom, Canada, Chile, Grand Cayman, Malta, the Dominican Republic and Australia (where centers operate as SIGNWAVE). FASTSIGNS is frequently recognized for franchisee satisfaction and through franchising awards which include being ranked #1 on Entrepreneur's Highly Competitive Franchise 500 List for the Seventh Consecutive Year for 2023 as well as being named a 2023 Best-in-Category Franchise by Franchise Business Review.

In 2021, Propelled Brands was formed, and is now the multi-brand franchisor for FASTSIGNS, NerdsToGo and MY SALON Suite.

To learn more visit fastsigns.com . Follow the brand on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/company/fastsigns , Twitter @FASTSIGNS or Facebook at facebook.com/FASTSIGNS . For information about the FASTSIGNS franchise opportunity, contact Mark Jameson ([email protected] or call 214.346.5679).

SOURCE FASTSIGNS International, Inc.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, August 29. The statements made by French Minister of Europe and Foreign Affairs Catherine Colonna, which do not serve peace and stability in the region and demonstrate a unilateral pro-Armenian position, are unacceptable, Spokesman for the Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry Aykhan Hajizada said in response to a question from local media about the opinions expressed by French Minister of Europe and Foreign Affairs Catherine Colonna during her speech at the conference of ambassadors, Trend reports.

"Armenia has kept Azerbaijani lands under occupation for almost 30 years, implemented a policy of ethnic cleansing, genocide and massacres of Azerbaijanis, turning almost 1 million Azerbaijanis into refugees and internally displaced persons and violating their rights. The country has destroyed Azerbaijani towns and villages, cultural and historical monuments belonging to Azerbaijan.

Moreover, Armenia did not stop military and political provocations after the 2020 war and still has not withdrawn full of Azerbaijani troops from the Karabakh region within the framework of the national legislation.

Ignoring all these facts and making accusations against Azerbaijan is categorically wrong.

Azerbaijan is making efforts within the framework of its national legislation to reintegrate Armenians living in the Karabakh region into the political, social and economic spheres of the country, and it is categorically wrong to make accusations against these efforts that a policy of "expelling Armenians from the region" is allegedly being pursued. We once again call on the French side to put an end to such provocative statements," the MFA spokesman said.
Order confirms no additional refunds owed

NEW ORLEANS, Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission resolved a long-standing litigation matter related to uncertain tax positions taken by System Energy Resources, Inc., or SERI, by denying a request for SERI to pay additional refunds to customers. The FERC ruling also ordered SERI to recalculate the value of overpayments on sale-leaseback refunds previously made to customers. SERI is an Entergy subsidiary that is the majority owner of the Grand Gulf Nuclear Station in Port Gibson, Miss.

"We are pleased today's order resolves a major source of litigation between our regulators and SERI," said Rod West, Entergy Group President, Utility Operations. "We hope the clarity provided by the FERC in this ruling helps to guide constructive discussions with our regulators to resolve the remaining SERI litigation matters. A comprehensive settlement could provide significant and imminent refunds to our customers at a time when energy bills are high due to record usage."

Entergy's actions have been and continue to be in the best interest of its customers. SERI claimed legitimate federal tax deductions for its business operations, which, if successful, would lower costs for customers. Ultimately, the IRS allowed over $100 million of the tax positions taken and the subsequent credits were passed on directly to customers. FERC's order does not require any further refunds or credits beyond those previously paid.

Entergy Mississippi reached a settlement agreement with the Mississippi Public Service Commission in summer 2022 on a number of pending SERI cases being litigated, including the case resolved today by the FERC. That agreement provided $300 million in credits directly to Entergy Mississippi customers that helped to pay their electric bills.

About Entergy

Entergy (NYSE: ETR) is a Fortune 500 company that powers life for 3 million customers through our operating companies in Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi and Texas. We're investing in the reliability and resilience of the energy system while helping our region transition to cleaner, more efficient energy solutions. With roots in our communities for more than 100 years, Entergy is a nationally recognized leader in sustainability and corporate citizenship. Since 2018, we have delivered more than $100 million in economic benefits each year to local communities through philanthropy, volunteerism and advocacy. Entergy is headquartered in New Orleans, Louisiana, and has approximately 12,000 employees. Learn more at entergy.com and follow @Entergy on social media. #WePowerLife.

SOURCE Entergy Corporation
The Columbia University student aims to fill the gap in children's literature

MIAMI, Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Louis Hernandez Jr.'s Foundation For A Bright Future ("For a Bright Future," "FABF"), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization focused on key areas of inequality for underserved children is proud to announce the release of a remarkable children's book by its accomplished scholar, Daniela Palacios. Titled "Sara's New Country and New Friend / El nuevo pais y la nueva amiga de Sara," this bilingual book is valuable to children's literature and not only showcases Daniela's talent but also serves as an inspiration to children everywhere.

Daniela Palacios, an exceptional nineteen-year-old student at Columbia University, is a shining example of dedication and passion. Daniela has made incredible strides in her academic journey by pursuing dual degrees in Economics & Political Science and Public & Urban Education. As the recipient of the prestigious 2022 For A Bright Future Dr. Emma Lerew Scholarship, supporting future educators. She has proven her astounding commitment to her studies and showcased her deep-rooted desire to make a meaningful difference in education.

Driven by her passion for education and personal experiences with language barriers in her bilingual household, Daniela Palacios founded Para KIDS!, a media company dedicated to creating authentic bilingual children's books in Spanish and English. The company's mission is to inspire children to learn new languages and embrace diverse cultures through engaging and educational content. Recognizing a crucial gap in the market, Para KIDS! provides high-quality books for young readers in both languages, aiming to bridge the divide and promote inclusivity.

"As a bilingual children's book author, I undergo the process of transcreation. Leaning into both my English and Spanish speaking abilities and understanding the sociocultural nuances of each, I can create an experience for the reader that is equally enriching in either or both languages," said Daniela Palacios, Author, and Founder of Para KIDS!

For A Bright Future empowers underrepresented and underprivileged children through its scholarships and various project-based programs emphasizing science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM) education, reinforcing its commitment to providing equal opportunities for underserved communities nationwide.

"Daniela's dedication and perseverance are truly inspiring. Her book exemplifies the impact our scholarship programs can have on young minds, empowering them to reach their full potential and make a difference in their communities," said Susie Hernandez, Chair of the Scholarship Programs Committee, FABF.

Daniela has collaborated with family community centers, elementary schools, and community events in New Jersey and New York for the past two years. As part of her involvement, she organizes bilingual readings accompanied by engaging craft activities. Her dedication to fostering inclusivity and education shines through her efforts to create meaningful connections with young readers and their families.

"Daniela's success is a testament to the effectiveness of our programs and the immense potential of the students we support. We are thrilled to see Daniela's book come to life, and we look forward to witnessing its positive impact on children's literacy and cultural understanding," said Louis Hernandez Jr., Founder and Chairman of the Board, FABF.

The book "Sara's New Country and New Friend / El nuevo pais y la nueva amiga de Sara" is available for purchase on Amazon. To learn more, please visit www.parakidsbooks.wixsite.com/mysite.

Contact:

Gina Rogoto, Director of Operations and Development

Louis Hernandez Jr.'s Foundation For A Bright Future

Email: [email protected]

About For A Bright Future

For a Bright Future is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization dedicated to supporting the needs of underrepresented and underprivileged children through education, healthcare, the arts, and youth leadership development. Our initiatives provide equal opportunity for all children to have the tools and opportunities to fulfill their life goals and become constructive members of our global community.

www.forabrightfuturefoundation.org.

About Para KIDS!

Para KIDS! is a media company dedicated to creating authentic Spanish and English bilingual children's books to inspire all children to learn new languages and appreciate new cultures.

SOURCE Louis Hernandez Jr.'s Foundation For A Bright Future
HERNDON, Va., Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Four Inc . has been named a federal aggregator for Chainalysis , the world's leading and most trusted blockchain analysis and investigation platform. Under the agreement, Four Inc. will provide Chainalysis' Blockchain Data platform to the public sector through Four Inc.'s NASA Solutions for Enterprise-Wide Procurement (SEWPV), Information Technology Enterprise Solutions - Software 2 (ITES-SW2) and its network of channel partners as part of Four Inc.'s boutique aggregation program. This partnership will empower agencies to leverage advanced blockchain data analytics and investigations to combat illicit activities and enhance their cybersecurity efforts.

As the use of cryptocurrencies and blockchain technology continues to grow, it becomes increasingly important for agencies to have the necessary tools to monitor, analyze, and investigate blockchain transactions. Chainalysis offers a comprehensive blockchain data platform that enables agencies to gain insights into cryptocurrency flows, identify illicit activities, and track funds across multiple blockchains.

"We are excited to partner with Chainalysis, strengthening our cybersecurity portfolio by bringing their cutting-edge blockchain analysis capabilities to our public sector channel," said Chris Wilkinson, EVP of Sales for Four Inc. "This collaboration fills a gap within our portfolio and provides innovative technologies for our partners and customers to combat money laundering, fraud, and other illicit activities occurring within blockchain networks."

Chainalysis' blockchain data platform provides a range of features designed to support investigations and compliance efforts. The platform leverages advanced algorithms and machine learning techniques to trace transactions across blockchains, identify suspicious activities, and generate actionable intelligence. It enables users to understand the full lifecycle of transactions, identify high-risk entities, and collaborate with other agencies through secure data sharing.

About Chainalysis

Chainalysis is the blockchain data platform. We provide data, software, services, and research to government agencies, exchanges, financial institutions, and insurance and cybersecurity companies in over 70 countries. Our data powers investigation, compliance, and market intelligence software that has been used to solve some of the world's most high-profile criminal cases and grow consumer access to cryptocurrency safely.

About Four Inc.

Four Inc. is a small business, boutique aggregator and has been recognized as a Top 100 government contractor on Washington Technology's Top 100 Report consecutively for the last eight years. Four Inc.'s expertise of the federal IT contracting process and their carefully crafted ecosystem of manufacturers and partners has enabled them to expertly deliver the right technology solutions and services to their customers. Through their proven experience and dedication to their core values, they have earned the IT community's respect and trust.

Contact:

Joanna Corcoran

+1-571-732-6318

[email protected]

SOURCE Four Inc.
Smart Selangor Delivery Unit is a Malaysian public initiative to equip Selangor citizens, businesses, and government agencies with the digital technologies needed for achieving fully smart services.

SAN ANTONIO, Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Based on its recent analysis of the Southeast Asian smart city governance agency industry, Frost & Sullivan recognizes Smart Selangor Delivery Unit (SSDU) with the 2022 Company of the Year Award for its pioneering programs that encourage digital technologies in the Malaysian state of Selangor. SSDU is responsible for ensuring that key public services are delivered efficiently in response to the local community's growing need for more effective services. The Selangor state government created the company to manage and coordinate the delivery of key public services and enhance its citizens' standard of living by leveraging digital technologies.

To deliver the smart state objectives in Selangor, Malaysia, SSDU remains focused on optimizing digital technologies to offer seamless citizen and business-facing services.

The unit seeks to transform the state into a smart region by 2025 through smart government, smart economy, smart community, and smart infrastructure initiatives. With these four goals, the state of Selangor accelerates processes that connect businesses and citizens with the best digital tools to support a next-generation business environment. SSDU envisions these initiatives as the building blocks needed to boost business in Selangor as the digital technologies will benefit the government and get commercialized at the same time.

"To deliver the smart state objectives in Selangor, Malaysia, SSDU remains focused on optimizing digital technologies to offer seamless citizen and business-facing services. In addition, SSDU continues to champion and transform the delivery of public services to the citizens of Selangor by adopting digital infrastructure platforms and implementing digitalization to improve the efficiency of its services and increase the quality of living standards while nurturing the safety and security of citizens," said Kiran Kumar, research director at Frost & Sullivan. "Citizens and businesses in Selangor expect high standards of service delivery and the same user experience while accessing government services as they have with private enterprises, similar to what is being witnessed in developed nations worldwide."

In addition, SSDU has launched targeted initiatives to address specific problems. For example, it successfully launched the Citizens' Electronic Payments Platform (CEPat) to enhance digital payments. CEPat serves citizens by providing a cashless alternative to physical payments. It also enables them to make timely payments to government agencies, such as taxes and rent.

The company has achieved remarkable results. Citizens' quality of life is improving and a pro-business and pro-innovation climate is forming throughout the state of Selangor, which is rapidly joining the digital world. As a result, SSDU is realizing the vision of Selangor becoming a livable Smart State in ASEAN by 2025.

"SSDU has witnessed a record number of transactions through CEPat in recent months because many citizens are moving toward online transactions such as to pay parking fees and utility bills and to top up their prepaid cards," noted Kumar. "Frost & Sullivan research indicates that SSDU's dynamic ability to leverage technology-based innovations demonstrates a strategic approach to achieving the smart state vision, which is an ideal that regions worldwide aim to reach."

Each year, Frost & Sullivan presents a Company of the Year award to the organization that demonstrates excellence in terms of growth strategy and implementation in its field. The award recognizes a high degree of innovation with products and technologies, and the resulting leadership in terms of customer value and market penetration.

Frost & Sullivan Best Practices awards recognize companies in various regional and global markets for demonstrating outstanding achievement and superior performance in leadership, technological innovation, customer service, and strategic product development. Industry analysts compare market participants and measure performance through in-depth interviews, analyses, and extensive secondary research to identify best practices in the industry.

About Frost & Sullivan

For six decades, Frost & Sullivan has been world-renowned for its role in helping investors, corporate leaders, and governments navigate economic changes and identify disruptive technologies, Mega Trends, new business models, and companies to action, resulting in a continuous flow of growth opportunities to drive future success. Contact us: Start the discussion .

Contact:

Tammy Chan

[email protected]

About Smart Selangor Delivery Unit

Smart Selangor Delivery Unit is a Selangor State Owned Company mandated to deliver the Selangor Smart State Programme with the vision to make Selangor a Liveable Smart State in ASEAN by the year 2025.

SOURCE Frost & Sullivan
Moonrock's interactive activations will open new avenues for Stagwell's (STGW) GALE and its impressive roster of clients.

NEW YORK , Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Leading Business Agency GALE has announced a strategic partnership with renowned gaming design specialist Moonrock Labs . The collaboration combines Moonrock Lab's industry-leading game development and design capabilities with GALE's award-winning integrated marketing approach, revolutionizing gaming solutions for the agency's client base.

The alliance follows other collaborations with GALE clients, including Truth Initiative, Wells Enterprises and MilkPEP. Post this GALE and Moonrock Labs

Moonrock Lab's specialty capabilities include crafting curated activations within video game titans Fortnite, Roblox, Minecraft, and ARK: Survival Evolved. These playable worlds have amplified the reach of partners, including Coca-Cola, Fanta, Burger King, and Macy's. By leveraging Moonrock Lab's expertise in these realms, GALE further solidifies its commitment to the gaming space while offering unparalleled access in three key areas:

Emerging products and technology . GALE will transform emerging products into interactive, accessible experiences for clients, bringing opportunities for innovation upstream through Moonrock's experienced product team.

. GALE will transform emerging products into interactive, accessible experiences for clients, bringing opportunities for innovation upstream through Moonrock's experienced product team. Research and development . The partnership will deliver thought leadership and bespoke research to accelerate industry understanding of gaming's impact and effectiveness.

. The partnership will deliver thought leadership and bespoke research to accelerate industry understanding of gaming's impact and effectiveness. Access to gamers. GALE will leverage Moonrock's extensive network of millions of real gamers, many from the key Gen Z demographic, to promote activations to a broader audience.

The alliance follows a number of collaborations with GALE clients, including Truth Initiative, Wells Enterprises and MilkPEP. Most recently, GALE engaged Moonrock to build three original Fortnite maps for MilkPEP launched at VidCon, integrated Bomb Pop into Restaurant Tycoon II on Roblox, and in coming weeks will host several Minecraft events with creators and community members, including free custom items for Truth Initiative.

"Marketers are still grappling with how to authentically integrate into gaming ecosystems and communities. To do so, they must transition from a strategy of mere impressions to one of complete immersion. GALE's partnership with Moonrock Labs allows us to accelerate marketers on that transformative journey," GALE Chief Innovation Officer Ben James said.

"Our previous projects with GALE have proven it's possible to build long-form, immersive, interactive commercials consumers will line up to experience," said John Benyamine, co-founder of Moonrock Labs. "Even more exciting is the fun, communal feeling generated before, during and after each event. These are effectively short-term, branded theme parks in the cloud that can be accessed from any device anywhere in the world  and admission is free."

Earlier this year, GALE unveiled Advance Party, an innovation practice aimed at integrating emerging and innovative formats into its storytelling machine, driving exponential growth for clients. The partnership with Moonrock Labs marks the first of several exciting announcements to come.

Also in 2023, Moonrock Labs launched Black-focused gaming site LoopBreak with support from Google Play, as well as content creation for clients including Samsung, Star Trek, and Skydance Interactive.

For more information contact [email protected]

About GALE

GALE is a Business Agency. We bring business insights to brand storytelling and activate across every channel. With expertise in business strategy, CRM, loyalty, brand storytelling, integrated, performance, creative, and content marketing, experience design and media, GALE creates marketing systems and communications that grow businesses. Founded in 2014, the agency currently has offices in New York, Singapore, Toronto, Denver, Detroit, Los Angeles, London, Austin and Bengaluru. In 2021, GALE was named Data & Analytics Agency of the year on the Ad Age A-List. For information on GALE, its customer data platform Alchemy and its consumer research capability ASK GALE, visit: https://gale.agency/.

About Moonrock

Moonrock combines decades of video game industry knowledge with cutting-edge engagement methods and technologies designed to reach the critically-important gamer demographic. Specializing in content creation on a variety of networks, Moonrock opened its Labs division in 2023 with a team of 150 developers, designers, and product managers creating interactive experiences in Roblox, Fortnite, Minecraft, and other leading gaming platforms. Clients include Samsung, PUBG, Red Bull, Immutable, HyperX, Paramount, Comic-Con International, and more. Visit https://Moonrock.agency for more

SOURCE Stagwell Inc.
Companies share new details on AI collaboration and announce future generative AI explorations

DETROIT and SUNNYVALE, Calif., Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- General Motors and Google Cloud today shared new details on how the two companies collaborated to bring conversational AI technology into millions of GM vehicles, helping drivers in a variety of ways. Since its launch in 2022, GM's OnStar Interactive Virtual Assistant (IVA) has been powered by advanced, intent-recognition algorithms that use Google Cloud's conversational AI technologies, providing OnStar Members with responses to common inquiries, as well as routing and navigation assistance. The successful deployment of Google Cloud's AI in GM's OnStar service has now opened the door to future generative AI deployments being jointly piloted by GM and Google Cloud.

"Generative AI has the potential to revolutionize the buying, ownership, and interaction experience inside the vehicle and beyond, enabling more opportunities to deliver new features and services," said Mike Abbott, executive vice president, Software and Services, GM. "Our software-led approach has accelerated the creation of compelling services for our customers while driving increased efficiency across the GM enterprise. The work with Google Cloud is another example of our efforts to transform how customers engage with our products and services."

GM's decision to collaborate with Google Cloud in exploring new, business-wide generative AI applications builds on a journey the two companies began together in 2019 when GM named its first vehicles with Google built-in. Since then, the number of GM vehicles with Google built-in has grown, giving customers easy access to Google Assistant, Google Maps and Google Play, directly from their vehicles' center displays. That collaboration soon expanded to the deployment of Google Cloud's conversational AI technology, Dialogflow. With this technology, GM's OnStar virtual assistant is now handling more than 1 million customer inquiries a month in the U.S. and Canada, and is available in most model year 2015 and newer GM vehicles connected by OnStar.

"General Motors is at the forefront of deploying AI in practical and effective ways that ultimately create better customer experiences," said Thomas Kurian, CEO, Google Cloud. "We're looking forward to a deepened relationship and more collaboration with GM as we explore how the company uses generative AI in transformational ways."

GM's OnStar Interactive Virtual Assistant (IVA), which launched in 2022, uses advanced AI-based, intent-recognition technologies powered by the Google Cloud's Dialogflow technology to provide OnStar Members with routing and navigation assistance, including turn-by-turn directions. The OnStar IVA assists with common inquiries initiated by the nonemergency OnStar blue button push in GM vehicles, but also endeavors to distinguish phrases and words that may signify an emergency situation and help to quickly route the call to OnStar's specially trained emergency Advisors.

With this technology, OnStar has been better able to immediately understand a customer's question or request the first time it is spoken, providing a response with a modern, natural sounding voice. Customers hear the same familiar OnStar "voice" whether they are sitting in their vehicles or calling on the phone, and have reacted positively to experiences on calls without hold times. With the OnStar IVA successfully helping GM customers requesting navigation assistance, OnStar Advisors have been able to spend more time with customers with requests that require a human touch.

Additionally, GM is leveraging Google Cloud's Dialogflow technology to deploy chatbots that can conversationally help answer customer questions about GM vehicles and product features based on the technical information from GM's extensive vehicle data repositories. With this technology, customers can get quick answers to questions like, "Tell me more about GM's 2024 EV lineup," or learn how to take advantage of new technology features in their vehicle. These chatbots are active across GM's corporate and vehicle brand websites, bringing additional convenience to customers looking for specific vehicle related information.

GM's initiative to place Dialogflow into its OnStar technology will earn technology industry recognition at Google Cloud's annual Next event in San Francisco. Among a heavily competitive pool of companies across industries using Google Cloud technologies, GM stood out for its successful and broad deployment of AI, earning it a "Talent Transformation" award.

About Google Cloud

Google Cloud accelerates every organization's ability to digitally transform its business and industry. We deliver enterprise-grade solutions that leverage Google's cutting-edge technology, and tools that help developers build more sustainably. Customers in more than 200 countries and territories turn to Google Cloud as their trusted partner to enable growth and solve their most critical business problems.

About General Motors

General Motors (NYSE: GM) is a global company focused on advancing an all-electric future that is inclusive and accessible to all. At the heart of this strategy is the Ultium battery platform, which powers everything from mass-market to high-performance vehicles. General Motors, its subsidiaries and its joint venture entities sell vehicles under the Chevrolet, Buick, GMC, Cadillac , Baojun and Wuling brands. More information on the company and its subsidiaries, including OnStar , a global leader in safety services and connected vehicle technology, can be found at https://www.gm.com .

SOURCE Google Cloud
BOSTON, Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Spatial computing promises to transform the way people interact with their devices as computing goes truly 3D, with early signs of change already underway. While Apple's upcoming Vision Pro is bringing new excitement to this space, gaming-focused VR (Virtual Reality) headsets from companies including Meta, Sony, and Pico have sold in the millions. AR (Augmented Reality) glasses from Vuzix, Microsoft, and more have also found a valuable place in the industry. Display systems are make-or-break here, and for these devices to march towards uniquity, substantial development is required in this area.

Display panel technologies for AR and VR. Source: IDTechEx

IDTechEx's latest report, "Displays for Virtual, Augmented and Mixed Reality 2024-2034: Forecasts, Technologies, Markets", untangles the web of panel technologies that form the heart of these head-mounted display (HMD) systems. It explores the industry's most-hyped technologies, including micro-LED, OLED-on-silicon (also known as micro-OLED), and laser beam scanning, while paying careful attention to its current workhorses, such as LCDs and LCoS (Liquid Crystal on Silicon). Seven key panel technologies are analyzed in detail, from their technical backgrounds to supply chain players. Benchmarking pits these display types against each other and assesses their suitability for different XR (eXtended Reality) devices. Granular 10-year forecasts explain how the market is predicted to evolve, with a CAGR of 11% towards a market value of US$4.6 billion in 2034 expected.

Meeting Display Requirements in XR Offers Tough Challenges

Infographic - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2193832/IDTechEx_panels.jpg

Display panel technologies for AR and VR. Source: IDTechEx

Displays are a key limiting technology for AR, alongside the optics they are seen through, which are typically very inefficient. Displays, therefore, need to be very bright, particularly when headsets are intended for outdoor use, but also power-efficient, high pixel-density, compact, and acceptably priced all in one package. The field of view (FoV  the amount of the wearer's vision covered by virtual content) affects display requirements.

Wide FoV devices, which typically are capable of MR (Mixed Reality  where overlaid virtual content interacts with real objects), need to focus most strongly on image quality, with brightness and color rendition being particularly important. Things may look easier for narrow FoV (<30) devices since frequently only basic text and notification content need to be displayed, and full color may not even be required, but this fails to consider how lightweight and compact the display system must be to allow these devices to be worn for long periods. Minimizing power consumption is potentially even more important for this since the alternate choice is a bulky battery or an unusably short battery life.

In VR headsets, upgraded high-resolution, high-contrast display systems can give a strong competitive edge and provide more immersive experiences. Here, the rise of passthrough MR, where cameras pass a view of the real world to the wearer, is upping the importance of shrinking display systems down so that the cameras may be placed closer to the position of the eyes, as well as making headsets more compact.

With all the technological challenges in place, it is no wonder that a huge range of display technologies are finding use in AR and VR headsets, as outlined in the graphic. IDTechEx forecasts these to be the key technologies serving the XR display market for the next decade and predicts the adoption of each panel type in VR, narrow FoV AR, and wide FoV AR devices. In the further future, XR display technologies may evolve to solve the vergence-accommodation conflict (the mismatch between perceived and focal distance for objects in stereoscopic display systems): IDTechEx's report also outlines progress toward "true 3D" displays to solve this issue.

What Does the IDTechEx Report Offer?

It is abundantly clear that this market has substantial opportunity, but it comes with a range of pitfalls for its players. IDTechEx has been covering the VR, AR, and MR industries since 2015, and this report follows from its existing titles "Optics for Virtual, Augmented and Mixed Reality 2022-2032: Technologies, Players and Markets", "Virtual Reality & Augmented Reality Headsets 2023-2033: Technologies, Players, and Markets" and "Micro-LED Displays 2021-2031: Technology, Commercialization, Opportunity, Market and Players", further deepening its comprehensive coverage of the fast-evolving sector. "Displays for Virtual, Augmented and Mixed Reality 2024-2034: Forecasts, Technologies, Markets" provides critical market intelligence to help your business navigate this industry as it grows. This includes:

This report provides critical market intelligence about the diverse and fast-changing XR display industry. This includes:

Technology Trends & Player Analysis

An introduction to the augmented, mixed and virtual reality (AR, MR and VR) headset market, including analysis of key trends, expected market entrance from major players, and assessment of the competitive landscape.

Introduction to the display requirements of XR devices, including the optical systems that partner with displays.

For seven distinct display panel technologies, technological background, expected innovations, analysis of important players, an overview of the supply chain ecosystem, assessment of fitness for VR, and narrow/wide field of view (FoV) AR devices.

Analysis of display backplanes and driving technologies, "true 3D" (holographic and light field) displays, and competitor technologies.

27 company profiles included, including interviews.

Updates from conferences in 2023, including SID Display Week, Laval Virtual, and CES.

Market Forecasts & Analysis

Ten-year granular market forecasts for the following, including basis in historical data and narratives:

- Overall headset market (VR including MR-capable devices, AR including MR-capable devices).

- Displays by panel technology (e.g., OLED-on-silicon, LCD, DLP, etc.). AR devices are divided into narrow vs. wide field of view.

- Overall headset market (VR including MR-capable devices, AR including MR-capable devices). - Displays by panel technology (e.g., OLED-on-silicon, LCD, DLP, etc.). AR devices are divided into narrow vs. wide field of view. Benchmarking of the above technologies on 13 commercial and technological factors, with quantitative application fitness assessment.

Analysis and technical discussion of the potential winning technologies within these areas.

To find out more about the brand new IDTechEx report "Displays for Virtual, Augmented and Mixed Reality 2024-2034", including downloadable sample pages, please visit www.IDTechEx.com/ARVRDisplays.

Upcoming Free-to-Attend Webinar

Seeing Is Believing: Exploring the Future of XR Display Technology

Sam Dale, author of this article and the new IDTechEx report, will be presenting a free-to-attend webinar on the topic on Thursday 21 September 2023 - Seeing Is Believing: Exploring the Future of XR Display Technology.

This webinar will cover the following:

An introduction to how XR device types affect display requirements

Discussion of recent innovations in the XR display industry and their potential impacts on the future of XR devices

The bottlenecks and technology gaps holding back XR display development, with potential solutions identified

A roadmap for the development of the industry, with key player technologies highlighted

Click here to find out more and register your place on one of our three sessions.

About IDTechEx

IDTechEx guides your strategic business decisions through its Research, Subscription and Consultancy products, helping you profit from emerging technologies. For more information, contact [email protected] or visit www.IDTechEx.com.

Images download:

https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/8e6xct9i2t9zuzxsyhphp/h?rlkey=blqt9jluckfd4cqimblj38txc&dl=0

Media Contact:

Lucy Rogers

Sales and Marketing Administrator

[email protected]

+44(0)1223 812300

Social Media Links:

Twitter: www.twitter.com/IDTechEx

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/IDTechEx

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/478371/IDTechEx_Logo.jpg

SOURCE IDTechEx
SINGAPORE, Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Group-IB, a global cybersecurity leader headquartered in Singapore, is proud to announce that the company's Managed XDR solution has won the Red Dot Design Award for Interface & User Experience Design - Brands & Communication Design 2023. This prestigious award is in recognition of the user-friendly and innovative design inside Managed XDR , a highly comprehensive cybersecurity product that enables companies to see and respond to all the threats targeting their infrastructure. Group-IB representatives will officially receive the award at Red Dot's award ceremony in Berlin, Germany, on November 3, 2023.

Group-IB's Managed XDR is one of the company's flagship solutions, created to give companies full control over their cybersecurity by identifying threats in real time and facilitating immediate response by centralizing, correlating, and analyzing all endpoints. This next-generation cybersecurity platform leverages an increasing number of telemetry sources and ever-evolving machine learning algorithms to provide highly-advanced detection, response, and threat prevention capabilities.

Given the immense complexity of the tasks Managed XDR solves, creating a coherent user experience was a great challenge for Group-IB's design team. The company's designers were tasked with creating the unique, user-friendly, and best-in-class interfaces that have been recognized with this Red Dot Design Award. By prioritizing user experience at all stages of the design process, cybersecurity specialists are able to better understand the type of threats targeting their organization and their severity. As a result, Group-IB's Managed XDR enables companies to respond to threats 20% faster and provides a return on investment of over 272%, according to a study conducted by Forrester .

"We are delighted to receive this acknowledgement for the interface design of Managed XDR . Good UX design should be at the heart of all cybersecurity solutions, enabling professionals to quickly and intuitively get the information they need to take the required actions to combat cyber threats. At Group-IB, we work tirelessly to ensure that our solutions are efficient and accessible, to ensure that our clients utilize their full potential." Alexander Batuev, Head of Design at Group-IB, said.

With more than six decades of history and 18,000 entries annually from design professionals, companies and organizations from over 70 countries, the Red Dot Design Award is one of the world's largest and most renowned design competitions, recognizing the highest quality of product and communication design. The winners of the awards are selected by an expert multinational jury.

SOURCE Group-IB
Alpen has been an active participant in the GSA's Green Proving Ground program

LOUISVILLE, Colo., Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Alpen High Performance Products , a U.S. based manufacturer of high efficiency window technology for commercial and residential markets, was visited in its Louisville headquarters last week by the U.S. General Services Administration's (GSA) Administrator, Robin Carnahan. The GSA Administrator was on site at Alpen to tour the company's facilities and gain new insights from Alpen, which is a supplier of products tested in GSA's Green Proving Ground (GPG) Program. According to GSA's website, the GPG program was created to leverage GSA's real estate portfolio to evaluate innovative building technologies and drive down energy costs in federal buildings. To date, the GPG program has evaluated 104 different technologies from 965 applicants.

Alpen High Performance Products

"We are thrilled to be part of the GSA's Green Proving Ground Program and were honored to have Administrator Carnahan visit us at our headquarters today," said Brad Begin, CEO of Alpen High Performance Products. "Climate change is here, and high-impact technologies like ours that reduce the footprint of the built environment, which are being designed and built all around us, have never been more imperative. The fact that the US government is actively participating in finding advanced technologies that are manufactured exclusively in the United States, and then supporting their development, is very encouraging."

Through the GPG studies, researchers found that on average, quad-pane windows saved 24% heating and cooling energy compared with a high-performing double-pane window. For new construction and window replacements, the quad-pane windows have payback between one and six years, depending on climate zone and utility rates. The GSA has installed Alpen's quad-pane high performance windows throughout Building 40 at the Denver Federal Center as a part of its goal to achieve net zero through energy efficiency products and electrification efforts of federal buildings.

The GSA's Green Proving Ground program works with third-party evaluators to test innovative early-commercial building technologies in federally owned buildings. The program enables the GSA to make investment decisions in next generation building technologies based on actual performance. To date, following favorable evaluation results, 30 GPG-evaluated technologies have been deployed in more than 700 facilities across the GSA's real-estate portfolio.

For more information about GPG Program studies and associated findings, click here . The GSA published the results of its testing and evaluation of Alpen's Lightweight Secondary Window inserts and lightweight Quad-Pane windows in 2022.

Reference above to any specific commercial product, process, service, testing or site visit does not constitute or imply its endorsement, recommendation or favoring by the United States Government or any agency thereof.

About Alpen

Alpen High Performance Products manufactures super-insulating, thermally efficient commercial and residential windows and architectural glass with four decades of industry leadership in high performance windows and glass unit manufacturing. The exceptional thermal performance of Alpen's window and glazing solutions grants the freedom to design with maximum glass across all building types and climate zones. Whether for new construction or retrofit applications, Alpen products provide a powerful combination of blocking summer heat, retaining winter warmth, eliminating harmful ultraviolet rays, reducing noise and maximizing natural daylight while providing exceptional energy savings. Visit Alpen's website to learn more.

Media Contact:

Reid Wegley

2069634167

[email protected]

SOURCE Alpen High Performance Products
CHENGDU, China, Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- GWM made a grand statement at the Chengdu Motor Show, showcasing over 30 models from its five major brands: HAVAL, WEY, ORA, TANK, and GWM Pickup.

A highlight of the event was the debut of three new energy models targeting the Chinese market: HAVAL Menglong, WEY Gaoshan MPV PHEV, and GWM TANK 400 Hi4-T(All named in Chinese market). These innovative vehicles, now available for pre-sale, garnered significant attention.

The GWM was designed to showcase not only the vehicles themselves but also the cutting-edge technology and features that define them. As the next significant addition to the "Dragon Series," Menglong further enhances GWM's dual-line product layout for urban and off-road new energy SUVs. Equipped with the next-generation intelligent cabin system-Coffee OS 2, and Coffee intelligent driving system, it offers passengers an exceptional driving experience and smart connectivity.

Similarly, as the initial MPV within the GWM brand, GWM has integrated not only the Coffee System into it but also the DriveGPT automatic driving cognitive model, enhancing vehicle decision-making intelligence and safety capabilities. By the first half of 2024, the Urban NOH autonomous driving system will be operational in 100 cities, propelling WEY to the forefront of intelligent driving technology.

In addition to GWM's hybrid models, the pure-electric ORA were also showcased at the event. Marking ORA's fifth anniversary & its latest 400,000 production, the 2023 ORA 03 & GT Mulan Edition will grace the stage. As GWM's pure electric brand, ORA embodies the epitome of cutting-edge technology in the pure electric domain.

At the just-concluded BRICS summit, GWM sponsored its new energy vehicle models, the HAVAL H6 HEV and HAVAL JOLION HEV. And it will export more new energy vehicle models overseas in the future. GWM has confirmed a development strategy encompassing hybrids, pure electric vehicles, and hydrogen fuel cells. As the first Chinese automaker to join the Hydrogen Council, GWM actively advances hydrogen technology research and application. Its participation in the International Hydrogen Fuel Cell Association demonstrates a steadfast commitment to sustainable mobility.

With an intelligent tech-driven vision, GWM aims to redefine mobility. The brand's transformative journey, founded on pioneering advancements, is poised to elevate and personalize the mobility experience for all.

About GWM:

Facing the trend of personalized consumption of users, GWM insists on the user-centered concept and practices the development strategy of "Based on category innovation, and brand building through new category creation", and has created five major brands: HAVAL, WEY, ORA, GWM TANK and GWM Pickup.

To contribute to the carbon peak and carbon neutrality goal, GWM has made the construction of future-oriented industrial ecology a top priority. From battery electric technology to hybrid technology, from perovskite to hydrogen energy, GWM has been one of the companies with the widest layout in China's new energy industry chain.

GWM Group

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2196370/image_5028817_12702393.jpg

SOURCE Great Wall Motor Company Limited
BAKU, Azerbaijan, August 29. Armenian separatists in Karabakh urge residents to refuse humanitarian aid from Azerbaijani Red Crescent Society, Trend reports.

In the footage distributed on social networks, a resident of Khankendi calls for blocking the road for the passage of humanitarian aid vehicles sent today by the Azerbaijani Red Crescent Society, carrying 40 tons of flour products, with the words "I would rather die of hunger than eat flour given by a Turk".

The Azerbaijani side once again demonstrates a humanistic approach and sends humanitarian aid to citizens of Armenian origin living in Karabakh. The separatists, however, continue to sabotage Azerbaijan's attempts to establish peace in the region with such statements, and, moreover, expose their own beliefs about the so-called "humanitarian catastrophe".

The remnants of the separatist regime in Karabakh have long been trying in various ways to convince the world community and international organizations that Azerbaijan, by establishing a border crossing point on the Lachin road, is allegedly keeping the Armenian residents of Karabakh under "blockade", has created a "humanitarian crisis situation" for them, and that the Armenians are allegedly facing "food shortages".

Armenia, which continues to manipulate the existence of an alleged "tense humanitarian situation" and "blockade" in the region, is hindering the peace process instead of following through on the agreements reached to resolve issues related to the use of the Lachin road and other alternative roads to meet the needs of the Armenian residents of the Karabakh region.
STOW, Ohio, Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Haydon Corporation, a leading construction materials' manufacturer, has announced plans to open a new distribution center in Stow, Ohio. The Ohio Department of Development (ODOD) approved the project for tax credit assistance during its Ohio Tax Credit Authority meeting in early August.

This will be Haydon's fourth distribution center in the United States, strategically located to better service the growing demand of customers in the Midwest.

"The opening of a Midwest facility marks an important milestone in our journey, as we continue to assess our geographic presence and optimize connectivity with customers across North America," said Chad Collins, CEO and President of Haydon Corporation. "We are excited to partner with the Ohio Department of Development (ODOD) to create additional job opportunities and have a positive economic impact for the state of Ohio. The addition of the Stow facility will allow us to better provide our customers with exceptional service by shortening lead times and increasing inventory options in the Midwest."

Located at 4847 Gray Lane, the 254,000 square foot site will include inventory such as strut, hardware, baseboard, and rooftop materials.

"On behalf of everyone at Team NEO, our local partners, JobsOhio and the Ohio Department of Development, we welcome Haydon Corporation to the Northeast Ohio Region, a location that gives the company efficient access to their customers, as well as a talented workforce," said Chief Executive Officer Bill Koehler. "With the fourth largest interstate system in the country, the Northeast Ohio Region is an attractive destination for distribution facilities. It signals resilience and reduces risk long term, helping companies position for future growth."

The brand-new facility will create several jobs, contributing to local employment growth and economic development. Site renovations will begin late summer of 2023 and operations are expected to be up and running in early 2024.

For more information, contact [email protected] or visit their website: www.haydoncorp.com.

About Haydon Corporation

Haydon Corporation is a national provider of quality metal framing, hardware, rooftop support, and baseboard heating systems for commercial and residential construction. With locations in California, New Jersey, Texas, and now Ohio, Haydon's facilities are strategically positioned to service customers quickly and efficiently, allowing support for partners large or small across North America. Established in 1956, Haydon began as Haydon Tube and Form, manufacturing lock seam tubing and custom roll-formed shapes for select customers. Over time, Haydon's product offerings have evolved by continuing to focus on the needs of the marketplace and providing outstanding customer experiences.

Media Contact

Elizabeth Taylor

Marketing & Communications Leader

Haydon Corporation

[email protected]

SOURCE Haydon Corporation
STOCKHOLM, Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Global appliance company Electrolux Group  under its premium brand AEG  is showcasing, for the first time, its most resource-efficient models at IFA 2023: the AEG EcoLine. AEG EcoLine is a dedicated selection, presented in-store and online, of the company's most resource efficient appliances covering all major product categories and aimed at helping consumers to reduce climate impact while providing high-quality performance. The sustainable selection of appliances from the current AEG and Electrolux portfolio as well as the new AEG SaphirMatt induction hob with scratch-resistant glass will be revealed at IFA 2023 in Berlin from 1st to 5th September 2023.

According to Electrolux Group's science-based approach and Life Cycle Assessments (LCAs), approximately 85% [1] of the global climate impact of an appliance, during its lifespan, is generated when it is in use. Therefore, to help reduce climate impact while providing high-quality performance, all models within AEG EcoLine have been designed to be used effortlessly, at their top efficiency, every day while meeting the brand's strongest energy label ratings.

"Technological innovation is at the heart of every model within AEG EcoLine with functions designed to make life of consumers more enjoyable while making it easy to take more sustainable choices. Resource efficiency and performance without compromise is what consumers want and it's what AEG EcoLine delivers," says Chris Braam, CEO Europe Electrolux Group.

"We chose IFA 2023 to present the AEG EcoLine selection to an international audience because of its important role in highlighting innovation. AEG EcoLine is a significant step forward in making resource-efficient models stand out when people are looking for an appliance in-store or online, and we are very much looking forward to showcasing it to our trade partners and consumers in Berlin," adds Braam.

Better than the best A rating

The new AEG EcoLine selection covers all the main product categories ensuring it meets the appliances needs of the entire home.

Within laundry, AEG EcoLine will be showing washers which have an energy rating better than the best A rating on the market and with resource saving features such as AutoDose, which saves detergent, and UltraWash which cleans efficiently at 30C and saves 30% energy [2].





AEG EcoLine tumble dryers with heat pump technology can save up to 68% more energy versus a traditional tumble dryer [3].





AEG EcoLine ovens retain minerals and vitamins while using up to 20% less energy when cooking with steam [4], and a steam cleaning function saves up to 95% energy versus pyro cleaning [5].





The new AEG 7000 cordless cleaner is made with up to 70% recycled plastic, when using Auto Mode, it can save up to 47% energy and prolong running time [6].

Other appliances included in the AEG EcoLine are hobs, hoods, dishwashers, free-standing cookers and air purifiers.

GfK research shows increased consumer demand for energy savings

The presentation of the AEG EcoLine comes at an opportune time, with recent data from global market research institute GfK showing that energy efficiency is consumers' top reason for buying MDA appliances, e.g., washing machines. 61% of consumers in the five largest European countries said they considered energy efficiency as a deciding factor when choosing their next washing machine during the survey period between Q2 2022 and Q1 2023.

"We see a clear trend across all age groups that a more sustainable lifestyle is playing an increasingly important role. In addition to the environmental aspect, financial savings through better energy efficiency are also a strong factor in choosing an appliance", explains Alexander Dehmel, Head of CSM Germany & Austria at GfK, who will also speak at Electrolux Group's international media conference at IFA 2023 in Berlin on August 31.

World premiere of groundbreaking AEG SaphirMatt induction hob with scratch-resistant glass

IFA 2023 will also see the world premiere of the groundbreaking AEG SaphirMatt induction hob with scratch-resistant glass. The unique SaphirMatt ceramic glass is able to withstand everyday use and abrasions without being scratched. In fact, it can withstand up to four times fewer scratches than a standard ceramic hobs [7] and is twice as fast to clean [8]. Its elegant black matt finish adds a touch of style to any kitchen and is also 80% less reflective than a standard surface [9].

Join the media event

Electrolux Group will hold a media conference at IFA 2023 in Berlin to present its newest innovations including the AEG EcoLine. The event takes place on August 31, 2023, at 13.00 CET, at the AEG stand in hall 4.1, booth 101.

Journalists interested in attending the media conference can register here.

The media conference will also be streamed live between 13.00-14.00 CET via this here.

About IFA 2023 Berlin

IFA 2023, the world's most significant trade show for consumer and home electronics, is the main marketplace for key retailers, buyers, and experts from the industry and the media. IFA 2023 takes place at the Messe Berlin Exhibition Grounds from September 1-5.

[1] Based on global Electrolux Group life cycle assessment data. Data is available on request.

[2] The UltraWash program, thoroughly cleans at 30C and saves more than 30% energy compared to a 40C cotton program.

[3] Calculated comparing the annual energy consumption of our 8 kg TD Heat Pump (A+++ energy class) with our 8 kg TD condense (B energy class).

[4] Based on internal test comparing an AEG SteamPro oven [BSE998230M] with an AEG Multifunction oven [BPE556370M]. Test conducted on salmon fillet and sous-vide chicken breast.

[5] Based on internal tests comparing SteamPro oven (steam cleaning) vs. SteamCrisp oven (pyrolytic self-cleaning) energy consumption. Steam Cleaning program is patented by AEG US2017082295 (A1) - Steam Oven Cleaning Method.



[6] Based on internal calculations comparing power consumption and runtime when using Max mode with Auto mode when cleaning on carpet

[7] Based on external tests, compared to AEG's standard hob surface without special treatment or coating according to internal specifications and relevant EN, ISO, NF or DIN standards, when available.

[8] Laboratory tested on greasy stains. The physical and chemical characteristics of the SaphirMatt surface have been tested in our laboratories according to internal specifications and relevant EN, ISO, NF or DIN standards, when available.

[9] The physical and chemical characteristics SaphirMatt have been tested in laboratories according to internal specifications and relevant EN, ISO, NF or DIN standards, when available.

CONTACT:

For further information, please contact Electrolux Press Hotline, +46 8 657 65 07.

The following files are available for download:

https://mb.cision.com/Main/1853/3825007/2257561.pdf IFA 2023_Electrolux Group_pressrelease https://news.cision.com/electrolux-group/i/aeg-ecoline-key-visual-kitchen-laundry,c3210162 AEG-EcoLine Key-Visual Kitchen-Laundry https://news.cision.com/electrolux-group/i/aeg-ecoline-key-visual-washing-machine-tumble-dryer-pair,c3210166 AEG-EcoLine Key-Visual Washing-Machine-Tumble-Dryer-Pair https://news.cision.com/electrolux-group/i/aeg-8000-saphirmatt-induction-hob-comparison,c3210168 AEG 8000 SaphirMatt Induction Hob Comparison https://news.cision.com/electrolux-group/i/chris-braam-ceo-europe-electrolux-group,c3210169 Chris Braam CEO Europe Electrolux Group https://news.cision.com/electrolux-group/i/aeg-ecoline-logo,c3210170 AEG EcoLine Logo

SOURCE Electrolux Group
Evidence for ESSA's review of Imagine Math research indicates promising evidence of program effectiveness

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz., Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- A research study from Imagine Learning, the largest provider of digital curriculum solutions in the U.S., serving over 15 million students, received an ESSA Promising rating from Evidence for ESSA, a website produced by the Center for Research and Reform in Education at Johns Hopkins University that promotes the use of programs that meet ESSA evidence standards.

Evidence for ESSA reviewed Imagine Learning's study Impact Evaluation of Imagine Math in a Charter School Network, and published their review in June 2023, indicating the research provides promising evidence of significant, positive impact for students in grades K-8.

"Studies like this provide evidence that Imagine Math helps students learn, grow, and reach their academic potential." Post this

"Educators are rightfully searching for educational programs with a proven record of effectiveness in helping students achieve learning gains," said Sari Factor, Vice Chair and Chief Strategy Officer at Imagine Learning. "The research reviewed by Evidence for ESSA demonstrates Imagine Learning's commitment to ensure that our products optimize learning outcomes for students. Our mission is to inspire learning breakthroughs for students, and studies like this provide evidence that Imagine Math helps students learn, grow, and reach their academic potential."

For the Impact Evaluation of Imagine Math in a Charter School Network study, Imagine Learning partnered with a charter school network in the southeastern region of the United States to evaluate how Imagine Math impacted students' academic performance in mathematics. In total, 9,015 users of the Imagine Math program in Kindergarten through Grade 8 were compared to 9,015 statistically similar students in Florida and North Carolina.

The research was designed to retroactively compare the academic performance of students who used Imagine Math with those who did not during the 20202021 school year. Results showed that students in grades K-8 who used Imagine Math scored significantly higher on the Spring 2021 administration of the NWEA MAP Growth Math test than did similar comparison students. Similarly, results by grade level showed statistically higher performance for students in Grades 1 through 8 who used Imagine Math. Thus, the study provided evidence that the use of Imagine Math supports students' mathematics achievement.

Evidence for ESSA vets educational research through rigorous review "to provide clear and authoritative information on programs that meet the ESSA evidence standards and enable educators and communities to select effective educational tools to improve student success." Congress passed the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) in 2015 as the federal law governing K-12 education. Within the bill are stipulations supporting the use of federal dollars on educational programs with evidence of effectiveness.

About Imagine Learning

Imagine Learning creates K12 digital-first solutions, fueled by insights from educators, that evolve with the ever-changing demands of tomorrow. We work alongside educators to support over 15 million students in over half of the districts nationwide. Our core portfolio includes Twig Science, Imagine Learning Illustrative Mathematics, and Imagine Learning EL Education. Our robust supplemental and intervention suite equips learners with insightful and personalized instruction for literacy in English and Spanish, math, coding, and more. Imagine Edgenuity is our flagship courseware solution, complemented by Imagine School Services' Certified Teachers. Imagine Learning. Empower potential. Learn more at https://www.imaginelearning.com/.

Imagine Math provides rich, standards-based mathematics instruction in motivating, age-appropriate learning environments for PreKGeometry. This supplemental, adaptive curriculum challenges students with grade-level content and provides scaffolds for learners, as needed, to ensure they always feel successful. Additionally, point-of-need access to live instruction by certified, bilingual math educators is available starting in grade 3.

SOURCE Imagine Learning LLC
NEW YORK, Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- An immigrant detained in an Arizona detention center, suffering from poor health and away from his loving family after fleeing from his home in the Republic of Georgia has been released. Lasha, was a member of the United National Movement party  the largest opposition political party established by Mikheil Saakashvili (the 3rd president of the Republic of Georgia). The United National Movement party advocates strongly for democratic values, human rights, and social justice. Due to Lasha's political opinion and loyalty to his political values, Lasha had become the victim of the ruling Georgian Dream party and the law enforcement agencies conducting the unlawful orders of the Georgian Dream party leaders against members of the United National Movement party.

Gendelberg Law, PLLC

As a member of the United National Movement party, regrettably, his unwavering commitment to these noble principles had made him a target of unwarranted harassment, threats, and intimidation from individuals and groups opposing his political beliefs. Lasha had been subjected to physical and psychological abuse on account of his political opinion and membership of the opposition political organization. Facing a strong likelihood of death, Lasha fled from his home and sought protection in the United States.

The dedicated team at Gendelberg Law, under the leadership of attorney Leonard R. Gendelberg, Esq. undertook the responsibility of representing Lasha in immigration court. The firm worked tirelessly to secure a successful and positive outcome for Lasha's case. Upon taking on the case, the firm assured that Lasha not only comprehended his legal options but also felt informed, supported, and reassured throughout the entire process. The firm worked closely with Lasha, assisting him in gathering critical evidence (i.e., detailed personal statement, affidavit, human rights report, article, hospital report, and declaration). After presentation of the evidence in court and following a rigorous cross-examination by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), the immigration Judge issued a favorable ruling in the firms asylum case. This triumph lead to Lasha's liberation from the detention center and marked the beginning of a new chapter in Lasha's life as an asylee in the United States.

"Immigration law is very complex and I treat it as an art", said founder and managing attorney, Leonard R. Gendelberg, Esq. when discussing the intricacies associated with this case. "Having a passion for immigration law as an immigrant myself, my team and I take the time to learn every detail of every client. Allocating time to each client not only creates relationships but also truly provides the best opportunity of determining the clients best course of action."

About Gendelberg Law, PLLC:

Leonard R. Gendelberg, Esq. is the founder and managing attorney of Gendelberg Law, PLLC. Mr. Gendelberg's family immigrated in 1979 from Kiev, Ukraine so he has firsthand knowledge to the issues faced by immigrants. Mr. Gendelberg graduated from SUNY Empire State College in 2004 and Hofstra University School of Law in 2008. Mr. Gendelberg practices immigration law and represents clients throughout the entire United States.

Leonard R. Gendelberg, Esq.

Gendelberg Law, PLLC

(718) 400-2004

[email protected]

https://GendelbergLaw.com

SOURCE Gendelberg Law, PLLC
DUBLIN, Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The "Indonesia Construction Equipment Market - Strategic Assessment & Forecast 2023-2029" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.

The Indonesia construction equipment market is expected to reach 40,137 units by 2029

The Indonesian government proposed a package worth USD 47.8 billion to offset the economic effect of the COVID-19 pandemic. Under the National Medium-Term Development Plan (2020-2024 RPJMN), the government plans to invest USD 412 billion in developing transport, industrial, energy, and housing infrastructure by 2024.

The surge in commodities prices in the global market has positively impacted the country's mining industry. The demand for nickel, tin, and coal rose in 2021, increasing nickel and coal mining projects. Therefore, the rise in infrastructure development projects and the growth of the mining industry due to the surge in demand for nickel, tin, and coal in the market are expected to drive the demand for construction equipment in Indonesia during the forecast period.

Earthmoving equipment accounted for the largest share of the Indonesia construction equipment market in 2022. Excavators in the earthmoving segment accounted for the largest share in 2022. Rising investment in public infrastructure and transport facilities is expected to drive demand for excavators in the Indonesian market.

In 2022, the Indonesian government increased the infrastructure development projects, including constructing airports, railways lines, roadways, highways & bridges across the country. The government invested USD 407 billion under Nation Strategic Plan; the fund was directed to 200 different PPP projects in 2022.

The demand for hydraulic excavators is growing due to the rise in public infrastructure projects, including the extension of railways tracks, airports & renovation of bridges & highways across Indonesia in 2022. Several road construction & housing projects are progressing in different countries in the Indonesian market in 2023.

MARKET TRENDS & DRIVERS

Government Investment in Public Infrastructure Projects Through PPP Model

The Indonesian government aims to invest USD 430 billion in infrastructure development projects from 2021 to 2024. There was a 20% rise in infrastructure investments from the last investment plan in 2015-2020.

The country's infrastructure development projects are mostly in the transport sector. Investment projects are divided into three sectors - road, rail, and port development, accounting for 29%, 22%, and 23%, respectively.

The Trans-Sumatra toll road project is one of the largest projects worth USD 33.7 billion and is in progress. China supports a key project - Jakarta-Bandung high-speed railways.

Growth in Metal Ore Will Drive Equipment Market

The mining industry will be one of the major contributors to Indonesian GDP in 2022. The industry accounted for nearly 5% in 2022. According to a report from the Central Statistics Agency (BPS), the mining industry witnessed a sharp growth in 2022; the industry's mineral export value reached USD 5.93 billion, a growth of 103% compared to 2021.

The iron ore industry recorded the largest growth among the mining and quarrying sub-sector, 25.78%, in 2022. Then the other mining sub-sector grew by 4.79%, and the lignite coal sub-sector grew by 3.64%.

Companies Focus on Digital Transformation to Tackle Chinese Competition



The level of competition among manufacturers in the Indonesia construction equipment market has grown due to a surge in demand for Chinese OEMs, which are available at lower prices & easy financing facilities.

Further, other OEMs in the country, such as Kobelco, Komatsu, Caterpillars, Hitachi, and Hyundai construction machinery, focus on continuous improvement in aftersales services, supported by digital technology.

Hitachi Construction Machinery launched the digital application of equipment performance monitoring and technical support system. The company also launches the spare parts e-commerce platform to enhance the customer experience.

Adoption of Electric & Hydrogen Fuel Technologies

There is a rise in environmental concern in the Indonesian market in 2022. Indonesian government aimed to achieve the goal of carbon neutrality by 2050. This triggered the need for electric construction machinery in the market in 2022. Increasing government focus on carbon emission reduction in 2021 supported the demand for electric construction equipment.

Major construction equipment manufacturers such as Volvo Construction Equipment, SDLG, and XCMG launched electric and compact mini excavators in the Indonesia construction equipment market to tackle the growing demand in the market.

INDUSTRY RESTRAINTS

A Surge in Fuel Prices Impacts Building Material Prices and Hampers the Construction Projects

In 2022, the Indonesian government increased the fuel and oil prices in the market. The increase in fuel prices is expected to affect other commodities, including housing and property sectors. A rise in fuel prices will affect building materials such as iron, cement, sand, steel & bricks.

According to Central Statistics Agency (BPS), diesel prices increased by 37.8%, cement rose by 8.5%, asphalt increased by 15.3%, & steel roof prices fell by 3.85% in 2022.

The cost of construction projects of buildings for roads, bridges, & ports increased by 9.6%, followed by the cost of electricity, gas, water & communication center installations rose by 5.6%. The construction cost of residential building projects also witnessed growth of 4.2% in 2022.

VENDOR LANDSCAPE

SANY, Kobelco, Komatsu, Caterpillar, & Hitachi Construction Machinery are leaders in the Indonesia construction equipment market. These companies have a strong market share and offer diverse sets of equipment.

Manitou, Kubota, Toyota Material Handling & Kubota are niche market players. These companies offer low product diversification and have a strong presence in Indonesia's local market.

VENDOR LANDSCAPE

Prominent Vendors

Caterpillar

Komatsu

Volvo Construction Equipment

Hitachi Construction Machinery

Kubota

SANY

JCB

Xuzhou Construction Machinery Group Co. Ltd. (XCMG)

Kobelco

Zoomlion Heavy Industry Science & Technology Co. Ltd

Hyundai Construction Equipment

Distributor Profiles

PT Indotruck Utama

United Tractors

Multicrane Perkasa

PT. Airindo Sakti

PT. Sumitomo Construction Machinery

PT. Badak Prima Lestari

PT. United Equipment Indonesia

ALTRAK 1978

Other Prominent Vendors

Liebherr

Liu Gong

Yanmar

Sumitomo Construction Machinery

Takeuchi

Toyota Material Handling

Manitou

SAKAI

SEGMENTATION ANALYSIS

Segmentation by Type

Earthmoving Equipment

Excavator

Backhoe Loaders

Wheeled Loaders

Other Earthmoving Equipment (Other loaders, Bulldozers, Trenchers)

Road Construction Equipment

Road Rollers

Asphalt Pavers

Material Handling Equipment

Crane

Forklift & Telescopic Handlers

Aerial Platforms (Articulated Boom Lifts, Telescopic Boom lifts, Scissor lifts)

Other Construction Equipment

Dumper

Tipper

Concrete Mixture

Concrete Pump Truck

End Users

Construction

Mining

Manufacturing

Others (Power Generation, Utilities Municipal Corporations, Oil & Gas, Cargo Handling, Power Generation Plants, Waste Management)

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/kbq49m

About ResearchAndMarkets.com

ResearchAndMarkets.com is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends.

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SOURCE Research and Markets
In the study, six dogs with naturally-occurring osteoarthritis, unresponsive to conventional medications, were treated with a single injection of five mg/kg liposomal-CBD (in addition to their routine medications). The subsequent observations spanned six weeks and included measuring CBD plasma concentrations, blood work, collar activity data, and evaluations of well-being and pain. The results were encouraging; dogs exhibited a substantial drop in pain levels and an uptick in activity.

Key findings include:

Prolonged CBD detection in the plasma with a peak concentration of 45.2 (17.8-72.5) ng/mL.

Significant decrease in pain and increase in well-being for several weeks.

Significant increase in activity (objectively measured) by the fifth and sixth weeks.

Minor swelling at the injection site in five out of six dogs, which resolved within a few days without any treatment.

The study underscores the effectiveness and increased bioavailability of LPT-CBD tested as part of a multimodal pain management in dogs with osteoarthritis. With the drug's plasma concentrations detectable for six weeks and high exposure in terms of AUC (area under the concentration-time curve), the research suggests that this liposomal formulation could become a useful addition to pain management strategies for improving the quality of life in dogs with osteoarthritis.

Read the full study on Frontiers in Veterinary Science:

Frontiers | Therapeutic efficacy and pharmacokinetics of liposomal-cannabidiol injection: a pilot clinical study in dogs with naturally-occurring osteoarthritis (frontiersin.org)

Innocan Pharma's CEO, Iris Bincovich, expressed her gratitude to the dedicated team of scientists at their Liposome technology labs in Jerusalem: "Our results, covered by one of the world's leading publications, stand as a testament to the potential of our innovative formulations and drug delivery systems. I'm profoundly proud of our team's groundbreaking work." This is an important milestone since publications in the scientific community provide guided information that impacts future drug development decisions and regulatory approval. Our publication clearly provides positive impact on both efficacy and safety parameters of LPT-CBD.

Innocan's relationship with The Hebrew University

Innocan Pharma Ltd., a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company, has entered into a worldwide exclusive research and license agreement with Yissum Research and Development Company ("Yissum"), the commercial arm of The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, with respect to the design, preparation, characterization and evaluation of hydrogels containing CBD (or other cannabinoids) loaded liposomes. The research and development initiative is led by Professor Chezy Barenholz, head of the Membrane and Liposome Research Department at The Hebrew University, which is the inventor of over fifty-five patent families, two of which underlie Doxil, an FDA-approved drug for breast cancer treatment. This unique liposome platform technology may have a wide range of applications, such as epilepsy, pain relief, inflammation and central nervous system disorders. A patent was filed covering this technology on October 7, 2019.

About Innocan

Innocan Pharma is a pharmaceutical tech company that focuses on the development of several drug delivery platforms containing CBD. Innocan Pharma and Ramot at Tel Aviv University are collaborating on a new, revolutionary exosome-based technology that targets both central nervous system (CNS) indications and the Covid-19 Corona Virus using CBD. CBD-loaded exosomes hold the potential to help in the recovery of infected lung cells. This product, which is expected to be administered by inhalation, will be tested against a variety of lung infections.

Innocan Pharma signed a worldwide exclusive license agreement with Yissum, the commercial arm of The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, to develop a CBD drug delivery platform based on a unique-controlled release liposome to be administered by injection. Innocan Israel plans, together with Professor Barenholz, to test the liposome platform on several potential conditions. Innocan Israel is also working on a dermal product that integrates CBD with other pharmaceutical ingredients as well as the development and sale of CBD-integrated pharmaceuticals, including, but not limited to, topical treatments for the relief of psoriasis symptoms as well as the treatment of muscle pain and rheumatic pain. The founders and officers of Innocan Israel each have commercially successful track records in the pharmaceutical and technology sectors in Israel and globally.

NEITHER THE CANADIAN SECURITIES EXCHANGE NOR ITS REGULATION SERVICES PROVIDER HAVE REVIEWED OR ACCEPT RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS RELEASE.

Caution regarding forward-looking information

Certain information set forth in this news release, including, without limitation, information regarding research and development, collaborations, the filing of potential applications with the FDA and other regulatory authorities, the potential achievement of future regulatory milestones, the potential for treatment of conditions and other therapeutic effects resulting from research activities and/or the Company's products, requisite regulatory approvals and the timing for market entry, is forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable securities laws. By its nature, forward-looking information is subject to numerous risks and uncertainties, some of which are beyond Innocan's control. The forward-looking information contained in this news release is based on certain key expectations and assumptions made by Innocan, including expectations and assumptions concerning the anticipated benefits of the products, satisfaction of regulatory requirements in various jurisdictions and satisfactory completion of requisite production and distribution arrangements.

Forward-looking information is subject to various risks and uncertainties which could cause actual results and experience to differ materially from the anticipated results or expectations expressed in this news release. The key risks and uncertainties include but are not limited to: general global and local (national) economic, market and business conditions; governmental and regulatory requirements and actions by governmental authorities; and relationships with suppliers, manufacturers, customers, business partners and competitors. There are also risks that are inherent in the nature of product distribution, including import / export matters and the failure to obtain any required regulatory and other approvals (or to do so in a timely manner) and availability in each market of product inputs and finished products. The anticipated timeline for entry to markets may change for a number of reasons, including the inability to secure necessary regulatory requirements, or the need for additional time to conclude and/or satisfy the manufacturing and distribution arrangements. As a result of the foregoing, readers should not place undue reliance on the forward-looking information contained in this news release concerning the timing of launch of product distribution. A comprehensive discussion of other risks that impact Innocan can also be found in Innocan's public reports and filings which are available under Innocan's profile at www.sedar.com.

Readers are cautioned that undue reliance should not be placed on forward-looking information as actual results may vary materially from the forward-looking information. Innocan does not undertake to update, correct or revise any forward looking information as a result of any new information, future events or otherwise, except as may be required by applicable law.

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2196814/Innocan_Pharma_Corporation.jpg

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2046271/3968398/Innocan_Pharma_Corporation_Logo.jpg

For further information, please contact:

For Innocan Pharma Corporation:

Iris Bincovich, CEO

+972-54-3012842

[email protected]

SOURCE Innocan Pharma Corporation
PHILADELPHIA, Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Kaskela Law LLC announces that it is investigating Discover Financial Services (NYSE: DFS) ("Discover Financial") on behalf of the company's long-term investors.

On July 19, 2023, Discover Financial disclosed in a statement that the company had misclassified some of its credit cards. Specifically, Discover Financial revealed that it misclassified certain credit card accounts into its highest pricing tier, starting in 2007, meaning merchants were charged more than they should have been to accept the cards for payment. Discover Financial indicated the company is discussing the matter with regulators and warned it could face future regulatory actions. Discover Financial also disclosed that it received a proposed consent order from the FDIC for a consumer compliance issue which is different than the misclassification matter. Following this news, shares of the company's stock declined $19.40 per share, or 16% in value, to close on July 20, 2023 at $102.83 per share, on unusually heavy trading volume.

Then, on August 14, 2023, Discover Financial disclosed that Roger Hochschild was stepping down as President and CEO as well as giving up his position as a member of the company's board of directors. Following this news, shares of the company's stock declined an additional $9.69 per share, or 9.5% in value, to close on August 15, 2023 at $92.96 per share, again on unusually heavy trading volume.

The investigation seeks to determine whether the members of Discover Financial's board of directors violated the securities laws and/or breached their fiduciary duties in connection with the above.

Long-term Discover Financial investors are encouraged to contact Kaskela Law LLC (D. Seamus Kaskela, Esq. or Adrienne Bell, Esq.) at (484) 258  1585, or by email ([email protected] / [email protected]) or online at https://kaskelalaw.com/cases/discover-financial-services/ , for additional information about this investigation and their legal rights and options.

Kaskela Law exclusively represents investors in securities fraud, corporate governance, and merger & acquisition litigation. For additional information about Kaskela Law LLC please visit www.kaskelalaw.com. This notice may constitute attorney advertising in certain jurisdictions.

CONTACT:



KASKELA LAW LLC

D. Seamus Kaskela, Esq.

Adrienne Bell, Esq.

18 Campus Blvd., Suite 100

Newtown Square, PA 19073

(888) 715  1740

www.kaskelalaw.com

SOURCE Kaskela Law LLC
TOKYO, Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Isetan Mitsukoshi Holdings Ltd. and Nomura Real Estate Development Co., Ltd., both based in Tokyo, held a grand opening ceremony on July 21 for "MITSUKOSHI BGC," a shopping mall constituting part of a large-scale, mixed-use residential and commercial development project being pursued in partnership with leading Philippine developer Federal Land, Inc., in Manila, Philippines.

Images: https://kyodonewsprwire.jp/release/202308238345?p=images

The ceremony was held in an atmosphere with a touch of Japan's seasonal festival "matsuri." The event included a performance of Japanese drums as well as a performance of Japanese calligraphy. Based on the concept of "NEXT MANILA LIFESTYLE," MITSUKOSHI BGC will continue striving to make the mall a place that enriches daily lives of visitors and residential tower residents.

Grand opening remarks

- Toshiyuki Hosoya, Director, President and CEO, Isetan Mitsukoshi Holdings

"I would like to express my deepest gratitude to everyone for their efforts in this project. This year marks the 350th anniversary of Mitsukoshi. Since its founding in 1673, Mitsukoshi has continued innovation to enrich daily lives of our customers. Our policy is characterized by two features: hospitality (customer-first principle) and partnership (win-win relationship), and in the Philippines, we will maintain this business philosophy for our customers and business partners. I am certain that a new sensation takes hold as you visit MITSUKOSHI BGC after enjoying a shopping experience at Mitsukoshi and Isetan department stores in Japan. I hope you will share our belief that we are proposing a culture, not products."

- Eiji Kutsukake, Chair and Director of Nomura Real Estate Holdings, Inc.

"We participated in this project as I was fascinated by the encounter in 2015 with Mr. Alfred V. Ty and his passion for the project as well as the growing power of the Philippines, and we have worked on the project with a belief that our knowledge and know-how cultivated in Japan can be applied overseas. I am pleased with this project in the Philippines; for example, we finally held a grand opening ceremony after eight years of effort; we won multiple awards for our residential project in the last few years; sales of the last residential tower started and are progressing steadily. We will endeavor to enable MITSUKOSHI BGC to establish a unique position as a Japanese entity, to gain familiarity among locals, and to contribute extensively to the development of BGC and other areas across the Philippines."

For more details about grand opening activities, visit:

https://kyodonewsprwire.jp/attach/202308238345-O1-36DZHKvB.pdf

About the facility:

https://kyodonewsprwire.jp/attach/202308238345-O2-aD3QY6Li.pdf

Official websites

Isetan Mitsukoshi Holdings: https://www.imhds.co.jp/en/index.html

Nomura Real Estate Development: https://www.nomura-re.co.jp/english/

SOURCE Isetan Mitsukoshi Holdings Ltd., Nomura Real Estate Development Co., Ltd.
Jasper integrates into existing workflows within Google Workspace, advancing Jasper's mission to bring AI-powered content everywhere marketers work

AUSTIN, Texas, Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Jasper , the leading AI copilot for marketing teams, today announced partnerships with Google Workspace , Webflow , Zapier , and Make enabling marketers to create on-brand AI-assisted content in the places they work most. The new partnerships come at a time when marketers are eager to leverage AI as part of an omnichannel strategy but are concerned about how to best do so securely and in a way that upholds their brand identity. By integrating Jasper, these platforms can offer on-brand AI securely to their customers.

"There's a huge curiosity about AI right now across industries, but in order for AI to truly be transformational for marketers, it has to fit into the way they work," says Suhail Nimji, Head of Corporate Development and Partnerships at Jasper. "We approach partnerships with the goal of making it easier for marketers to bring AI into the fold as a true copilot on their strategy, harnessing the power of brand-specific AI content everywhere they work."

Google Workspace

Jasper is now available as an add-on in the Google Workspace Marketplace, allowing users to leverage AI to create and improve content directly in Google Docs ( available ) and Google Sheets (coming soon). Users can use Jasper inside Google Workspace to develop content ideas quickly, create variations, repackage content for different formats and audiences, or bring a piece of content into their brand voice and style guide.

"Marketers rely on Google Workspace for all aspects of operations, from brainstorming to drafting content," says Ava Malla, Director, Global Partnerships at Google Workspace. "New capabilities with Jasper will help our joint customers enhance their creative work with seamless, AI-driven tools."

Webflow

Webflow users can now access Jasper's AI-assisted content development directly in its visual development platform, providing faster time to market and more personalized experiences, including adapting website copy for different audiences and languages. By connecting their Jasper account from Webflow's Marketplace, users can harness AI to generate content or improve text on every page of the company's website, while matching its brand voice.

"Creating ongoing, fresh content for a website is a time-consuming task, especially for companies catering to multiple audiences and markets," says Shane Murphy-Reuter, Chief Marketing Officer at Webflow. "Webflow prides itself on its extensibility and flexibility, and marketers and creators are going to love the simplicity of Jasper's AI-assisted content development. With the new Jasper App on the Webflow Marketplace, we are continuing to provide our creators and developers with the tools they need to build powerful sites in a visual canvas."

iPaaS Integrations: Make and Zapier

Marketers rely on iPaaS solutions like Make and Zapier to easily automate repetitive tasks and connect key platforms and channels in their strategies. By integrating with Make and Zapier, Jasper can now be leveraged across countless marketing use cases and thousands of marketing tools without the need for a heavy technical lift. Because of the power of no-code integrations through Make and Zapier, the options and combinations are endless:

Create product descriptions from an Airtable record

Run Jasper commands through Slack

Create blog posts from liked tweets and publish in Wordpress

Create help documentation from Jira issues or Zendesk tickets, and more.

Because Make and Zapier now seamlessly connect with Jasper, the resulting content will always be aligned with the company brand, style and security standards.

From Google to Make, all these integrations are all powered by Jasper's API which is open for any company that wishes to bring Jasper directly into their platforms. End users can also use Jasper's browser extensions to call up Jasper across websites and tools they don't manage. Learn more about partnering with Jasper here .

About Jasper

Founded in 2021, Jasper is an AI copilot for marketing teams that securely brings on-brand AI-assisted content to all the places teams create. With Jasper, creators at enterprise companies can break through writer's block, generate ideas, repackage writing, create original images and adapt content to different formats and languages. Jasper has been recognized as "one of America's fastest-growing private companies" by Inc. 5000 and was one of the fastest companies to reach 100M+ users. Customers include Sports Illustrated, Anthropologie, SentinelONE, Transcend.io and more. Learn more at jasper.ai.

SOURCE Jasper
Jobber Grants program recognizes and celebrates the accomplishments of small businesses making a difference in the Austin community

AUSTIN, Texas, Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ - Jobber , the leading provider of operations management software for home service businesses, today announced the five recipients of its Jobber Grants in Austin program. The five entrepreneurs were selected from hundreds of applications and rewarded with $5,000 USD each to help accelerate the growth of their home service businesses and shine a light on their leadership and community impact.

"Each recipient selected for a Jobber Grant has demonstrated excellence in their field and is making a meaningful contribution to the city," said Moly Milosovic, who leads the community team at Jobber. "We are thrilled to support these hard-working professionals by helping make their ambitious plans come to life."

To date, the national Jobber Grants program has recognized 80 home service businesses with grants totaling $450,000. The $25,000 being awarded through Jobber Grants in Austin, a local version of the national program, brings the total to $475,000. Whether it's purchasing equipment, increasing marketing investment, launching a new service, or hiring employees, grant recipients have the freedom to choose how they want to spend the funds to achieve their business goals.

The 2023 Jobber Grants in Austin recipients are:

Brendin Dittman , owner of Cold is on the Right Plumbing: Brendin provides teams with the best tools to make sure the jobs are done the right way, the best way, and supports skill development through mentorship. The company is also dedicated to helping the next generation of skilled workers, and Brendin has built multiple tiny homes as an option for affordable housing for apprentices as they complete their training.





Brendin provides teams with the best tools to make sure the jobs are done the right way, the best way, and supports skill development through mentorship. The company is also dedicated to helping the next generation of skilled workers, and Brendin has built multiple tiny homes as an option for affordable housing for apprentices as they complete their training. Jaylin Lane , owner of Straight Edge Landscaping: This year, the company will be hosting its first annual back-to-school drive to give out more than 50 fully loaded backpacks to those in need. They also give 1% of revenue back to clients and the community through "thank you" gift cards and donations.





This year, the company will be hosting its first annual back-to-school drive to give out more than 50 fully loaded backpacks to those in need. They also give 1% of revenue back to clients and the community through "thank you" gift cards and donations. Karla Stanca , owner of Tex-Mex Cleaning Services: The company empowers employees  many of whom are single mothers or individuals who need a day job while building another career  with higher salaries and flexible schedules. Karla has also partnered with Cleaning For a Reason to provide free cleanings to cancer patients undergoing treatment.





The company empowers employees  many of whom are single mothers or individuals who need a day job while building another career  with higher salaries and flexible schedules. Karla has also partnered with Cleaning For a Reason to provide free cleanings to cancer patients undergoing treatment. Carl Wells , owner of Wells Solar & Electrical Services: The company empowers employees to grow and excel by providing ongoing training and professional development to keep up-to-date on industry trends, new products and services, relevant digital platforms, and relationship-building strategies. Carl also actively participates in community initiatives and has donated over $70,000 to local non-profit organizations throughout Texas over the past few years.





The company empowers employees to grow and excel by providing ongoing training and professional development to keep up-to-date on industry trends, new products and services, relevant digital platforms, and relationship-building strategies. Carl also actively participates in community initiatives and has donated over to local non-profit organizations throughout over the past few years. Beto Jimenez , owner of Eco Valet Trash: This door-side trash collection and bulk trash removal company takes pride in their unwavering commitment to persistence, integrity, and community engagement. The company prioritizes giving back to the community through charitable partnerships, volunteering efforts, and sponsoring events, including those organized through the Austin Apartment Association.

"The Jobber Grant is going to change everything," said recipient Jaylin Lane of Straight Edge Landscaping. "We plan on spending the funds on business conferences in an effort to grow our network and to further educate ourselves on advancements in our field, improving the quality of products and services we provide our clients. We also plan to increase our marketing spend, which will allow us to increase our bottom line and give back to our clients with thank you gift cards and contribute to charitable causes within our community."

Jobber Grants is one of the many initiatives launched by Jobber dedicated to supporting and elevating home service professionals, including the company's award-winning business operations software , events such as Jobber Summit , and free resources to help launch, grow, and scale a business via Jobber Academy , Salary Guides , and the Jobber Entrepreneurship Group .

To learn more about this year's Jobber Grants in Austin recipients, visit jobber.com/austingrants .

About Jobber

Jobber is an award-winning operations management platform for small home service businesses. Unlike spreadsheets or pen and paper, Jobber keeps track of everything in one place and automates day-to-day operations, so small businesses can run smoothly and provide five-star service at scale. Jobber is used by more than 200,000 home service professionals to serve over 27 million properties in more than 60 countries. The company continually ranks as one of Canada's fastest-growing and most innovative companies by Canadian Business and Macleans, The Globe and Mail, Fast Company, and Deloitte. For more information, visit: https://jobber.com/ .

Media contacts

Travis Van Horn

PAN Communications for Jobber

[email protected]

+1 202-840-2286

Elana Ziluk

Senior Public Relations Manager, Jobber

[email protected]

+1 416-317-2633

SOURCE Jobber
BAKU, Azerbaijan, August 29. Recent statements by the French President and the Foreign Minister once again show that Paris continues to demonstrate a hostile attitude towards Azerbaijan at all levels and platforms, the Western Azerbaijan Community said in a statement, Trend reports.

The statement says that France, which suppresses protests with police force and whose image in the world has been shaken by these events as well as by shameful defeats on the African continent, is trying to take steps against Azerbaijan.

"We remind the French Foreign Minister that the word "immoral" is more appropriate for a country that committed genocide in Algeria, destroyed various tribes, keeps the skulls of Algerian freedom fighters as war trophies in a museum in Paris, retains territories thousands of kilometers away, damages various peoples and the environment with nuclear weapons in the Pacific Ocean. This concept applies to France itself, which also bans the Corsican language," the statement said.

Armenia expelled all Azerbaijanis from its territory in 19871991; occupied Azerbaijani territories in 19911994; expelled about 800,000 Azerbaijanis from there; destroyed more than 900 cities and villages in Azerbaijan; committed numerous murders of Azerbaijanis; and the French Foreign Minister, who turned a blind eye to the mass killings of Azerbaijanis in Garadagli, Khojaly, Malibeyli, Meshali, and Aghdaban, accuses Azerbaijan of intending to carry out "ethnic cleansing".

"It is already clear to the whole world that France does not want peace between Azerbaijan and Armenia and is trying to prevent the reintegration of Armenians living in the Karabakh region of Azerbaijan. France must put an end to Islamophobia, which is an insult to morality, international law, the policy of Azerbaijanophobia, and the approach to issues through the prism of religious prejudice. The Western Azerbaijan Community will not allow France, whose history is full of genocides, colonialism, and injustice, to manipulate the concepts of noble values, such as human rights, to disguise its dirty politics and will continue to expose its policy of double standards," said the statement.
Hellemons joins growing cybersecurity organization as new CRO

TAMPA BAY, Fla., Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- KnowBe4, the provider of the world's largest security awareness and simulated phishing platform, today announced that new Chief Revenue Officer Hein Hellemons has stepped into this role.

Hellemons brings over 20 years of experience in building and scaling global sales for multi-billion dollar companies. He was most recently president and CRO for SecurityScorecard where he led all revenue resources worldwide and successfully grew and scaled the business across all market segments. Hellemons also held executive leadership positions at Microsoft, AWS and VMW. He earned a master's degree in Economics from the University of Amsterdam.

"Hein is an exceptional sales executive who brings a wealth of knowledge and leadership experience from several global software and technology companies," said Stu Sjouwerman, CEO, KnowBe4. "We are very excited to welcome him to the executive team. His skillset is an ideal fit for KnowBe4's future growth plans."

"The opportunity to join the KnowBe4 team was very appealing due to its unique position in the security awareness training segment of the cybersecurity market," said Hellemons. "KnowBe4 is the market leader, with a world renowned and award-winning platform. With its steadfast dedication to customer satisfaction and equal customer appreciation of the platform, KnowBe4 is in the upper echelon of IT security organizations worldwide. I was also attracted to the outstanding company culture and look forward to leading KnowBe4 to even more growth in the future."

For more information on KnowBe4, visit www.knowbe4.com.

About KnowBe4

KnowBe4, the provider of the world's largest security awareness training and simulated phishing platform, is used by more than 60,000 organizations around the globe. Founded by IT and data security specialist Stu Sjouwerman, KnowBe4 helps organizations address the human element of security by raising awareness about ransomware, CEO fraud and other social engineering tactics through a new-school approach to awareness training on security. Kevin Mitnick, who was an internationally recognized cybersecurity specialist and KnowBe4's Chief Hacking Officer, helped design the KnowBe4 training based on his well-documented social engineering tactics. Tens of thousands of organizations rely on KnowBe4 to mobilize their end users as their last line of defense.

Media Contact

Amanda Tarantino

Public Relations Officer

KnowBe4

[email protected]

SOURCE KnowBe4
NEW YORK, Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Lenox Advisors, a leading insurance and wealth management firm, has been honored as an Inclusive Workplace by Best Companies Group in partnership with COLOR Magazine. This prestigious acknowledgment reflects Lenox Advisors' unwavering dedication to cultivating inclusivity and fostering a sense of belonging within its workplace.

To achieve this recognition, participating companies undergo thorough surveys and data analysis. The evaluation encompasses crucial aspects such as, inclusivity, belonging, psychological safety, community, and purpose. "This program highlights the real strides companies are making in cultivating inclusive cultures that help all employees feel valued and engaged," said Jaime Raul Zepeda, Executive Vice President of Best Companies Group.

Greg Large, President and Chief Operating Officer at Lenox, expressed his gratitude, stating, "Being named a 2023 Inclusive Workplace by Best Companies Group is an extraordinary accomplishment for Lenox. It reaffirms our commitment to diversity and our vision of a workplace where everyone feels valued, empowered, and respected."

This recognition adds to Lenox Advisors' impressive track record of being renowned for its outstanding work environment. The company was recently certified by Great Place to Work for the seventh consecutive year, further exemplifying its commitment to putting its people first.

Lenox Advisors continues to set the standard for inclusivity in the workplace and remains dedicated to creating an environment where everyone can thrive.

View the Inclusive Workplace Recognition List:

https://bestcompaniesgroup.com/programs/inclusive-workplace-program/recognition-list/

We're Hiring

To join the Lenox Advisors team, look at our career opportunities, and stay connected with us on Facebook and LinkedIn.

About Lenox Advisors

Driven by the notion of what is best for you, Lenox Advisors builds custom solutions that integrate the financial needs of emerging affluent and other individuals with high net-worth, their families, and corporate clients. As your advocate, we take the time to deeply understand your goals and values, forming dynamic strategies to help protect and preserve your wealth. More information can be found at www.lenoxadvisors.com.

Media inquiries:

Melissa Dziemian, VP, Head of Marketing

Lenox Advisors, Inc.

90 Park Ave. 18 Floor, New York, NY 10016

212.536.8700

SOURCE Lenox Advisors, Inc.
Core Prospecting Pty Ltd.  a private mining contractor - may earn up to a 75% interest in a three square kilometre area within EL5387 by completing up to 6,000 metres of diamond drilling in two phases.

Historic production records from Excelsior indicate the mining of 13,200 tons for 9,260 ounces of gold from an ore shoot to a depth of 100 meters.

Drilling to seek depth and strike extensions to mineralization reported during Leviathan's 2021 drilling campaign - which included intervals of 6.63 meters at 8.24 g/t Au in hole EH003 and 11.02 meters at 5.40 g/t Au in hole EH005.

VANCOUVER, BC, Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ - Leviathan Gold Ltd. ("Leviathan", the "Company") (TSXV: LVX) (Germany: 0GP) is pleased to announce that its wholly-owned subsidiary, Leviathan Gold (Australia) Pty Ltd., has entered into Heads of Agreement ("HOA") with Core Prospecting Pty Ltd. ("Core") in regard to the Excelsior Prospect at its Avoca Project in the Victorian goldfields, Australia.

Under the terms of the HOA, Core  a private small-scale mining contractor based in Bendigo - may earn an initial 40% interest in a three square kilometre area within EL5387 (the Excelsior Area of Interest, or "AOI") by completing, at Core's sole cost and expense, 2,000 metres of diamond drilling including assays by January 17, 2024 ("Phase 1"), and a further 35% interest in the AOI for an additional 4,000 metres of diamond drilling including assays and by preparing an independent JORC report (the "JORC Report") identifying at least Indicated or Measured Mineral Resource within 12 months from the end of Phase 1, each at Core's sole cost and expense ("Phase 2"). In lieu of completing such further drilling, Core may instead prepare, at its sole cost and expense, a JORC report containing Indicated or Measured Mineral Resources (or both) of not less than 50,000 ounces of gold at a cut-off grade of 2.5g/t Au within the AOI. Upon fulfilment of certain conditions by Core, Leviathan shall on behalf of Core apply for a standalone tenure over the AOI, (the "New Tenement"). If Core fails to complete Phase 2 they shall forfeit any interest under Phase 1 and shall have no interest in the AOI.

Upon Core having attained a 75% equity interest in the AOI, Leviathan may either contribute its share of costs and maintain its equity interest, or be diluted pro-rata to a minimum carried interest of 5%, which Core shall purchase from Leviathan for the sum of AUD$150 per ounce of Indicated or Measured Mineral Resources (or both) as estimated in the JORC Report, payable upon commencement of gold production. Alternatively, Core may, within 12 months of the completion of Phase 2, purchase Leviathan's holding in the AOI for the sum of AUD$75 per ounce of Indicated or Measured Mineral Resources (or both) in the JORC Report, or Core may within 12 months of the completion of Phase 2 purchase Leviathan's holding in the Excelsior AOI by paying instalments of AUD$25,000 per quarter, increasing to AUD$75,000 per quarter, commencing from the date on which a New Tenement is granted and continuing for the life of any gold production mine located within the area of the AOI.

The HOA also provides that Leviathan may, subject to Core first completing Phase 1, claw back Core's equity stake in the AOI for the sum of AUD$500 per meter drilled, or after receipt of the JORC Report for AUD $150 per ounce of gold mineralisation estimated and classified as an Indicated Mineral Resource or a Measured Mineral Resource (or both) in the JORC Report.

The intent of the work programs contemplated by the HOA is to build on drilling completed by Leviathan in 2021, and to define economic gold mineralization at the property. The most prominent intervals among results reported to date from Excelsior include 8.24 g/t Au over 6.63 meters from 161.95 meters in hole EH003 (press release of April 21, 2021) and 5.40 g/t Au over 11.02 meters from 84.37 meters in hole EH005 (press release of April 26, 2021). These intervals are believed to represent the down-dip continuation of mineralization observed in historic mine workings, and are characterized by intense quartz veining, visible gold, and enveloping sericitic alteration and base metal sulphides. Additional drilling will be required to determine the true thickness of mineralization.

It is anticipated that drilling by Core commence in September 2023, and this will be reported on accordingly.

Leviathan Gold Chief Executive Officer, Luke Norman, remarked: "We are delighted to have struck this deal with Core, who as a highly skilled and reputable local mining contractor are ideally placed to further exploration at Excelsior and to bring near term value to the project. Past work at Excelsior confirmed not only the presence of high-grade gold mineralization across multiple sample intervals, but also continuity of this mineralization between drill holes within and beyond historical mine workings. With historic records from Excelsior indicating 9,260 ounces of production from an ore shoot at near-ounce grades, our target today is the extension of this system to depth and along strike  and repeats beyond this".

About the Excelsior Prospect

The Excelsior prospect is interpreted to host structurally controlled gold mineralization developed within quartz veins. Historic production records from Excelsior indicate the mining of 13,200 tons for 9,260 ounces of gold down an ore shoot to a depth of 100 meters at an average recovered grade of 22 g/t Au between 1909 and 19151, with said mineralization open to depth and along strike.



___________________________ 1 GeoVic (2020) https://earthresources.vic.gov.au/geology-exploration/maps-reports-data



Recent exploration work completed on Excelsior.2 included surface sampling and mapping. Two soil sampling traverses were conducted at the western part of the prospect, one pf which crossed considerable quartz vein float. The outcrop of the reef is presently covered by mine tailings. The initial phase of drilling work by Leviathan, which is expected to comprise at least 5,000 meters of diamond drilling, has been designed to target near-surface strike and depth projections of mineralization around and beneath the Excelsior Reef.

A total of 1,917 meters in 11 holes have been drilled at Excelsior by Leviathan to date.

Comparable Projects

Leviathan considers the Currighanalt project, in Northern Ireland, to be potentially and broadly similar in terms of its geology to the Avoca and Timor projects. In 2018 Dalradian Resources Inc. defined Measured and Indicated Mineral Resources of 6.34 million tonnes at a grade of 15.01 g/t Au for 3.06 million ounces of gold, and Inferred Mineral Resources of 7.72 million tonnes at a grade of 12.24 g/t Au for 3.04 million ounces of gold3. The Currighanalt project, which is described as "a high grade orogenic gold deposit characterized by a series of west-northwest trending, moderately to steeply dipping, stacked quartz-carbonate-sulphide veins and arrays of narrow and short extension veinlets" is hosted by rocks of similar lithology and age to those found at Avoca and Timor.

Qualified Person and Data Verification

The technical content of this news release has been reviewed, verified and approved by Keith Whitehouse, AusIMM (CP), Exploration Manager of Leviathan Gold (Australia) Pty. Ltd., a qualified person as defined by NI 43-101.

On behalf of the Company,

Luke Norman, Chief Executive Officer and Director



_____________________________ 2 Motton, N. (2016). Currawong Pty Ltd. "Annual Report for EL5387 Avoca" 3 Dalradian Resources (2018), "Technical Report for the Curraghinalt Gold Project, Northern Ireland", by SRK Consulting.





Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. No securities regulatory authority has either approval or disapproved of the contents of this press release.

This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any of the securities in the United States. The securities have not been and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "U.S. Securities Act") or any state securities laws and may not be offered or sold within the United States unless registered under the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws or an exemption from such registration is available.

Forward-Looking Statements

Information set forth in this news release contains forward-looking statements that are based on assumptions as of the date of this news release, including with respect to geological prospects of Leviathan's mineral projects, planned exploration activities, success of exploration activities, the relevance of historical information, the continuation of mineralization, the relevance of comparable projects, the timing of exploration activities, general business and economic conditions; that applicable approvals are obtained; that qualified workers, financing, permits, approvals, and equipment are obtained in a timely manner; that market conditions continue; that contractual counterparties perform their obligations as required; and that Leviathan is able to locate sufficient financing for favourable ongoing operations. These statements reflect management's current estimates, beliefs, intentions and expectations. They are not guarantees of future performance. Leviathan cautions that all forward looking statements are inherently uncertain and that actual performance may be affected by many material factors, many of which are beyond Leviathan's control. Such factors include, among other things: risks and uncertainties relating to whether exploration activities will result in commercially viable quantities of mineralized materials; the possibility of changes to project parameters as plans continue to be refined; the ability to execute planned exploration and future drilling programs; COVID-19; the ability to obtain qualified workers, financing, permits, approvals, and equipment in a timely manner or at all and on reasonable terms; changes in the commodity and securities markets; non-performance by contractual counterparties; and general business and economic conditions, Accordingly, actual and future events, conditions and results may differ materially from the estimates, beliefs, intentions and expectations expressed or implied in the forward-looking information. Although Leviathan has attempted to identify important risks and factors that could cause actual actions, events or results to differ materially from those described in forward-looking statements, there may be other factors and risks that cause actions, events or results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. Consequently, undue reliance should not be placed on such forward-looking statements. In addition, all forward-looking statements in this press release are given as of the date hereof. Leviathan disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, save and except as may be required by applicable securities laws. The forward-looking statements contained herein are expressly qualified by this disclaimer.

SOURCE Leviathan Gold Ltd
Signed a direct Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with SK E&S for purchasing 10MW renewable energy every year

Reducing 6,000 tons of greenhouse gases every year... effect of planting 900,000 pine trees

Speeding up the roadmap for implementing '2030 RE100' by purchasing REC at the same time

SEOUL, South Korea, Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- LG Innotek has announced on the 29th that it signed a direct PPA(Power Purchase Agreement) with SK E&S as part of ways to achieve '2030 RE100 (Renewable Electricity 100%)'.

The direct PPA is an agreement between the power supplier and corporation to directly trade renewable energy. It substantially contributes to the greenhouse gases reduction of the corporation since the corporation can procure renewable energy for up to 20 years.

Park Yeongsu, Head of Safety & Environment Division of LG Innotek (right) and Seo Kunki, Head of Renewables Business Division of SK E&S (left), attended the signing ceremony for a direct Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) for renewable energy held at SK E&S headquarters in Jongno-gu, Seoul on the afternoon of the 22nd.

Under this contract, LG Innotek will stably receive a 10 MW (megawatts) of renewable energy every year for the next 20 years. LG Innotek's Gumi plant will receive renewable energy purchased from SK E&S first from this December. LG Innotek plans to gradually increase the number of worksites to supply renewable energy by next year.

Starting with this first direct PPA, LG Innotek now can accelerate the execution of its strategy to achieve '2030 RE100'.

"In 2022, about 90% of the greenhouse gases emitted by LG Innotek was due to electricity. This contract is expected to reduce 6,000 tons of greenhouse gases annually, which is equivalent to planting 900,000 new pine trees," said an official from LG Innotek.

Last year, LG Innotek joined the RE100 Initiative to fulfill its corporate social responsibilities and actively respond to the crisis of global climate change. Especially, LG Innotek drew attention from the industry by revealing a challenging goal of changing 100% of electricity used at worksites to renewable energy by 2030, 20 years earlier than 2050, which is the requirement for membership.

LG Innotek achieved a renewable energy conversion rate of 22% (RE22) by adopting Korea Electric Power Corporation's green premium and installing self-generated photovoltaic facilities in the Gumi/Magok/Paju worksites in 2022.

In accordance with 'the RE100 roadmap', LG Innotek adopted a strategy to additionally secure a stable renewable energy supply chain by signing the direct PPA and purchasing the REC (Renewable Energy Certificate) at the same time.

"PPA with SK E&S has a special meaning in that we have entered a critical phase of 'the 2030 RE100 roadmap'. We will continue our efforts to transit to renewable energy as a leading ESG management company that provides differentiated customer value." said Park Yeongsu, Head of Safety & Environment Division of LG Innotek.

"It is a pleasure that SK E&S joined us in our journey to global RE100 implementation and greenhouse gas emissions reduction. We will continue to be a reliable partner for domestic companies making efforts to transit to renewable energy." Said Seo Kunki, Head of Renewables Business Division of SK E&

Direct Power Purchase Agreement (PPA)

The PPA is a system that electricity users and renewable energy suppliers directly sign a power purchase agreement outside of the electricity market. This policy is highly preferred by RE100 implementation corporations since they can receive renewable energy in the long term.

RE100

RE100 is the global initiative that promises to convert 100% of the electricity used by companies to renewable energy such as wind and solar power by 2050. RE100 member companies are required to fulfill the interim goal of 60% transition to renewable energy by 2030 and 90% by 2040. As of August 2023, 415 global companies, including LG Innotek, have joined RE100.

SOURCE LG Innotek
INDIANAPOLIS, Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Eli Lilly and Company (NYSE: LLY) will attend the Morgan Stanley 21st Annual Global Healthcare Conference, Sept. 11-12, 2023. Daniel Skovronsky, M.D., Ph.D., executive vice president, chief scientific and medical officer, and president of Lilly Research Laboratories, will participate in a fireside chat on Sept. 11 at 2:55 p.m., Eastern time.

A live audio webcast will be available on the "Webcasts & Presentations" section of Lilly's Investor website at https://investor.lilly.com/webcasts-and-presentations. A replay of the presentation will be available on this same website for approximately 90 days.

About Lilly

Lilly unites caring with discovery to create medicines that make life better for people around the world. We've been pioneering life-changing discoveries for nearly 150 years, and today our medicines help more than 51 million people across the globe. Harnessing the power of biotechnology, chemistry and genetic medicine, our scientists are urgently advancing new discoveries to solve some of the world's most significant health challenges, redefining diabetes care, treating obesity and curtailing its most devastating long-term effects, advancing the fight against Alzheimer's disease, providing solutions to some of the most debilitating immune system disorders, and transforming the most difficult-to-treat cancers into manageable diseases. With each step toward a healthier world, we're motivated by one thing: making life better for millions more people. That includes delivering innovative clinical trials that reflect the diversity of our world and working to ensure our medicines are accessible and affordable. To learn more, visit Lilly.com and Lilly.com/newsroom or follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and LinkedIn. F-LLY

Refer to: Jordan Bishop; [email protected]; 317-473-5712 (Media)

Joe Fletcher; [email protected]; 317-296-2884 (Investors)

SOURCE Eli Lilly and Company
VP of the ICDR, the American Arbitration Association's International Division, Will Lead Global ADR Educational & Development Opportunities

NEW YORK, Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The American Arbitration Association  (AAA) announces that Luis M. Martinez, Esq., Vice President of the organization's international division, the International Centre for Dispute Resolution (ICDR), has been selected as one of the 2023-2024 Co-Chairs of the American Bar Association (ABA) International Law Section's International Arbitration Committee.

Based in New York, Mr. Martinez was the first attorney hired by the AAA when it established the ICDR in 1996. He also served as the ICDR's first Director. He is responsible for international arbitration and mediation business development for the East Coast of the U.S. (from Maine to Florida), as well as Central and South America, the Caribbean, the European Union, and the U.K. Mr. Martinez also provides executive oversight of ICDR's large cross-border cases. Under Mr. Martinez's leadership at the ICDR, the AAA facilitated arbitration for 755 international business-to-business (B2B) cases, comprising $4.2 billion in total claims, filed in 2022a 12% increase in case filings from the previous year.

"The AAA-ICDR congratulates Luis on his appointment as Co-Chair of the International Arbitration Committee. This appointment recognizes his leadership in international arbitration and his extensive involvement with the ABA's International Law Section," said Eric P. Tuchmann, Executive Vice President, Chief Legal Officer, and Corporate Secretary of the AAA-ICDR. "Luis' work, both past and future, also reflects the longstanding collaboration between the AAA-ICDR and the ABA's International Law Section, and many other Sections of the ABA."

The upcoming year will be a busy one for the International Arbitration Committee, beginning with Committee members' participation in the ABA International Law Section's 2023 Fall Conference, "Law and the Future of Technology," in Seoul, South Korea, from October 10-13. The Committee will also develop additional programs, webinars, and other initiatives throughout the 2023-2024 year, and will explore cooperation and synergies with other ABA Committees as well as other international arbitration organizations. For more information, please visit https://www.americanbar.org/groups/international_law/.

"I am proud to have been selected by my colleagues to help steer the ABA's International Arbitration Committee," said Luis Martinez, Vice President of the ICDR. "The arbitration process is a cost-effective and efficient way to resolve business and other legal disputes, and the Committee's work is vital for educating and developing professionals in this area."

Mr. Martinez also serves as Honorary President of the Inter-American Commercial Arbitration Commission, and frequently contributes to international arbitration publications and speaks at international arbitration programs around the world. He received his J.D. from St. John's University School of Law.

About the American Arbitration Association

The not-for-profit American Arbitration Association (AAA) is the leading provider of alternative dispute resolution (ADR) services for parties in commercial disputes, having administered more than seven million ADR cases since its founding in 1926. With 29 offices in the United States, in addition to Singapore, the AAA provides organizations of all sizes in virtually every industry with ADR services and products. For more information, visit www.adr.org.

About the International Centre for Dispute Resolution

The International Centre for Dispute Resolution (ICDR) is the international division of the American Arbitration Association (AAA) and the largest international provider of dispute resolution services. Established in 1996, the ICDR serves parties from over 100 countries with multilingual staff experienced in international dispute resolution proceedings, and a roster of over 725 arbitrators and mediators. For more information, visit www.icdr.org.

Media Contacts:

Michael C. Clark Laura Simpson American Arbitration Association JConnelly +1.212.716.3978 +1.973.713.8834 [email protected] [email protected]

SOURCE American Arbitration Association-International Centre for Dispute Resolution
Volunteers to Provide Patient and Caregiver Perspective to Foundation's Grant Award Process

NEW YORK, Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The Lung Cancer Research Foundation (LCRF) is pleased to announce the appointment of a select group of volunteers as its Research Advocates. These dedicated individuals are patients, survivors, caregivers, healthcare professionals, and advocates committed to identifying and funding innovative lung cancer research.

This group is tasked with playing a significant role in determining areas of research to fund, drafting requests for proposals (RFPs), reviewing, and providing input on grant applications, and supporting education, awareness, and funding efforts.

"It is important to include the patient voice in everything we do as an organization," remarked Aubrey Rhodes, LCRF's Executive Director. "Patient involvement in the decision-making process surrounding LCRF's research investments ensures funding for the most promising projects with the greatest potential impact on patient outcomes."

"At its core, research is about creating better outcomes for patients, so enabling us to participate in the process  from prioritizing areas of research to focus on through helping identify the most promising grant submissions  will help advance research that has the greatest chance of changing people's lives," says Bruce Dunbar, LCRF board member, chair of LCRF's Corporate Development Committee, and Research Advocate. "The scope of innovative thinking and high-potential research in lung cancer science today is unprecedented and I'm excited to work with this prestigious group to advance the research in patient-centric ways."

LCRF's Research Advocates

Aaron Andersen, MDWaukesha, WI

Emergency Medicine Physician

Emergency Medical Associates of Waukesha, WI

Lung Cancer Patient Advocate

Sarah ChristLong Island, NY

Lung Cancer Patient/Survivor & Advocate

Colleen Conner ZieglerRochester, NY

LCRF Board of Directors, LCRF Scientific Executive Committee

Lung Cancer Patient/Survivor & Advocate

Denise Cutlip  Ypsilanti, MI

LCRF Education and Engagement Committee

Lung Cancer Patient/Survivor & Advocate

Dusty DonaldsonHigh Point, NC

Founder, Dusty Joy Foundation

Lung Cancer Patient/Survivor & Advocate

Bruce DunbarNew Rochelle, NY

LCRF Board of Directors, LCRF Corporate Development Committee Chair

Lung Cancer Patient/Survivor & Advocate

Kristen H. Kimball, MS, MEMBoston, MA

Educator, UCONN

Lung Cancer Patient Advocate

Barbara LaMonacaFalls Church, VA

BSN, Speech Pathology & Audiology, Retired

Lung Cancer Patient/Survivor & Advocate

Sulaiha Masten, PhDFairfax, VA

Clinical Psychologist, Retired

Lung Cancer Patient/Survivor & Advocate

Frank McKenna, MS EdVirginia Beach, VA

Cancer Exercise Specialist

Founder, Beach Better Bodies

Lung Cancer Patient/Survivor & Advocate

Emily Venanzi, PhD  Newton, MA

ALK Positive Inc. Medical Committee

Lung Cancer Patient/Survivor & Advocate

About the Lung Cancer Research Foundation (LCRF)

The Lung Cancer Research Foundation (LCRF) is the leading nonprofit organization focused on funding innovative, high-reward research with the potential to extend survival and improve quality of life for people with lung cancer. LCRF's mission is to improve lung cancer outcomes by funding research for the prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and cure of lung cancer. To date, LCRF has funded 409 research grants, totaling more than $42 million, the highest amount provided by a nonprofit organization dedicated to funding lung cancer research. For more information, visit lcrf.org.

Contact:

Sheila Sullivan

Sr. Director, Marketing & Communications, LCRF

[email protected]

SOURCE Lung Cancer Research Foundation
AARHUS, Denmark, Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Luxion Group ApS (Luxion), the company behind KeyShot, the industry-preferred 3D visualization software, is thrilled to announce its acquisition of Digizuite A/S (Digizuite), a leading provider of Digital Asset Management (DAM) solutions. This strategic move marks a significant step towards revolutionizing the digital supply chain landscape, offering innovative products that empower businesses to streamline asset management, collaboration, and content delivery across all channels.

Luxion Enhances Its Digital Capabilities Through Acquisition of Digizuite

With the acquisition of Digizuite, Luxion aims to deliver even greater value to its current and future customers by integrating cutting-edge DAM capabilities into its portfolio. As 3D visualization tools continue to evolve and play a crucial role in diverse industries, Luxion recognizes the importance of effective asset management in enhancing business efficiency, productivity, and output.

Claus Thorsgaard, CEO of Luxion, commented on this development, stating, "The benefits of 3D visualization are no longer limited to art and product design. These tools now serve an integral business purpose, improving the operations of companies worldwide. By adding Digizuite to Luxion's suite of products and services, we are empowering our customers with another essential tool: digital asset management."

For over two decades, Digizuite has been instrumental in helping global clients reduce costs, increase customer lifetime value, and create meaningful digital experiences. With headquarters in Denmark, a subsidiary in the United States and presence offices in UK, Belgium, and Ukraine, Digizuite brings a wealth of experience and expertise to Luxion's expanding portfolio.

In the coming months, Luxion and Digizuite will integrate operations in order to bring our valued customers enhanced products and services uniquely designed to solve our customers' biggest content management challenges.

Claus Thorsgaard further elaborated, "The merging of Luxion and Digizuite reflects two significant trends. Firstly, there is a growing demand for effective digital asset management across various departments, covering everything from CAD files to AR/VR content. Secondly, 3D visualization is becoming integral to the entire product development process, from concept to the final photorealistic presentation on e-commerce platforms. Combining the capabilities of Digizuite and Luxion is a smart move, tailored to the needs of today's most successful and innovative companies."

Thorsgaard continued, "In a fully digital world, the creation of a unified digital supply chain is imperative. This encompasses intelligent automation, cross-team collaboration, and targeted delivery of omnichannel content, all powered by multipurpose 3D assets. This is the path to competitiveness."

About Digizuite:

Global businesses and Fortune500 companies use Digizuite as a key platform in their digital transformations to automate digital processes when managing digital content (images, video, documents, audio, VR) from one place and sharing on multiple channels. Our DAM software supports: i) brand compliance across channels, ii) faster time to market, iii) increased operational efficiency, and iv) new revenue streams or new services.

Digizuite is a SaaS company in Digital Asset Management software (DAM) that streamlines all digital content in one central platform. Through automated workflows and agile integrations, Digizuite removes manual workflows and streamlines the entire content value chain. Customers choose Digizuite to have control over who, where, and how corporate materials are used. It ensures brand control, risk reduction and helps to increase efficiency and revenue. Today, the company has more than 70 employees between its headquarters in Denmark and representation in the United States, United Kingdom, Belgium, and Ukraine.

About Luxion:

Luxion is the recognized premier software company specializing in advanced 3D visualization and lighting technology. KeyShot, the preferred 3D visualization software for designers, engineers, marketing professionals, photographers and CG specialists, breaks down the complexity of creating photographic images and animations from 3D digital data. Luxion has 10,000+ customers globally, including over 60 percent of Fortune 500 companies.

For more information about Luxion, visit https://www.luxion.com/. Follow Luxion on LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook and X (formerly Twitter).

For media inquiries or more information about Luxion, please contact: Mohammed Ali, [email protected], (949) 274-8871, https://www.luxion.com/

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2196329/Luxion_Inc__Luxion_Enhances_Its_Digital_Capabilities_Through_Acq.jpg

SOURCE Luxion Inc.
To deliver on its vision of the 'Fluidic Enterprise', Nagarro introduces the Genome AI platform, which revolutionizes how businesses interact with and delight their customers.

MUNICH, Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Nagarro, a leader in digital engineering, has launched a cutting-edge digital experience offering, the Genome AI platform. This platform promises to revolutionize the way enterprises innovate and personalize digital experiences for their customers. The platform has been built to deliver the customer-facing part of Nagarro's vision of the AI-driven Fluidic Enterprise. It joins Ginger AI, which delivers the employee experience part of the Fluidic Enterprise vision.

In today's landscape of digital experiences, the key to brand success lies in enabling personalized offerings and smooth user journeys powered by data and AI technologies. This requires micro-level and nuanced experience analysis, individualized interactions, and real-time performance metrics.

Nagarro's Genome AI platform excels in delivering hyper-personalized experiences, smart recommendations, cutting-edge loyalty programs, and versatile enterprise planning solutions. Designed with modularity, the platform accommodates a diverse range of stakeholder needs. Users can either integrate specific modules into their existing cloud infrastructure or deploy them as standalone services.

The Genome AI platform equips enterprises with interactive tools for knowledge discovery facilitated through an easily navigable, micro-attribute-based ontology. It also supports collaborative simulations and optimizations, all seamlessly integrated with intuitive, language-based user interfaces.

"As next-gen AI becomes more accessible, we're witnessing a major shift toward enterprise-wide AI adoption. Customer experience is one of the areas where we see a lot of action. Factors like AI explainability, data vectorization, semantic modeling, robust AI security, and knowledge engineering are now in high demand. Our platform employs a flexible, plug-and-play architecture for seamless onboarding and state-of-the-art observability features," said Rahul Mahajan, a CTO at Nagarro.

"The Genome AI platform offers interoperability with a range of foundational AI models and integrates seamlessly with hyperscaler-specific managed-AI services. It also incorporates a strong governance layer for AI, ensuring data privacy and organizational security," added Mahajan.

Nagarro's Genome AI platform is a transformative digital experience offering that empowers brands and enterprises to deeply understand their customers through AI and data insights.

About Nagarro

Nagarro, a global digital engineering leader, helps clients become innovative, digital-first companies and thus win in their markets. The company is distinguished by its entrepreneurial, agile, and global character, its CARING mindset, and its approach of thinking breakthroughs. Nagarro employs around 19,500 people in 35 countries.

For more information, visit, www.nagarro.com

Contact: [email protected]

Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/844192/Nagarro_Logo.jpg

SOURCE Nagarro
COPENHAGEN, Denmark , Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Napatech (OSLO: NAPA.OL), a leading provider of programmable Smart Network Interface Cards (SmartNICs) and Infrastructure Processing Units (IPU) used in cloud, enterprise and telecom datacenter networks, today announced the availability of the Napatech's first 400Gbps programmable SmartNIC solutions, leveraging the latest Intel Agilex 7 FPGAs to deliver best-in-class performance for applications in security, cloud services, network monitoring and recording.

Enterprises and OEMs providing high-performance solutions for network monitoring and recording require NICs with a performance level that matches the high PCI Express (PCIe) bandwidth available in the latest servers such as those based on 4th Gen Intel Xeon Scalable Processors. The new Napatech NT400 SmartNIC platform, based on the Intel FPGA SmartNIC N6000-PL Platform, addresses this need through a PCIe Gen 4 16-lane host interface which enables full-duplex 2x100Gbps traffic between network ports and host applications. Similarly, for applications like the 5G packet core in telecom infrastructure that require high-bandwidth inline processing of network data, the NT400 platform sustains a total 400G of traffic over tens of millions of flows.

The NT400 programmable SmartNIC platform includes two QSFP56 network ports, supporting up to 2x200G traffic with the flexibility to configure 10G, 25G, 40G, 50G, 100G and 200G network links. The SmartNIC hardware is complemented by Napatech's portfolio of production-grade software packages, including Link-Capture for use cases such as network monitoring and recording, Link-Virtualization that provides a virtualized data plane for cloud services and Link-Inline for inline applications such as 5G User Plane Function (UPF). These integrated solutions deliver a true "IT experience" whereby the user just installs the card and the software, immediately achieving seamless acceleration of their application with no requirement to directly program the SmartNIC itself.

At the core of the NT400 platform is the Intel Agilex 7 FPGA F-Tile chiplet, which incorporates a configurable, hardened Ethernet protocol stack for supporting rates from 10G to 400G. Napatech chose the Intel Agilex 7 FPGA for a host of reasons, including scalability options that allow support for five different configurations that meet various price, performance, power and feature goals, tailored to specific customer applications and use cases. The F-Tile features are critical in enabling the NT400 to operate within the space and power limitations of standard servers deployed in network appliances, data centers and edge locations.

"As the networking landscape continues to evolve, SmartNICs emerge as the predominant growth catalyst in the expansive NIC market, poised to reach $3.3 billion annually by 2025" said Manoj Sukumaran, Principal Analyst for Datacenter Compute and Networking at Omdia. "High bandwidth programmable Ethernet adapters require very fine optimization in hardware and software to ensure deterministic and predictable processing time and making them suitable for real-time networking applications. Napatech is among the very few vendors who could provide highly optimized SmartNICs and software solutions leveraging FPGAs from vendors like Intel, and deliver highly efficient network offload capabilities" he added.

"The NT400 platform represents the latest generation within our portfolio of SmartNIC solutions," said Jarrod Siket, Chief Marketing Officer at Napatech. "We will deliver multiple SKUs based on this platform, providing products with memory configurations as well features like time synchronization and management ports that are precisely tuned to the requirements of our customers' applications, all packaged with the applicable production-grade software."

"We are delighted to see Napatech choose the Intel Agilex 7 FPGA for their leading-edge SmartNIC solutions," said Mike Fitton, Vice President Programmable Solutions Group and General Manager, Network Business Division at Intel. "The combination of our FPGAs, which deliver high performance, and power efficiency plus a rich feature set for the most demanding applications, together with Napatech's production-grade hardware and software, helps ensure that customers can deliver leading solutions for a wide range of enterprise and telecom applications."

The NT400 SmartNIC solution is available now. For more information, please contact www.napatech.com.

Intel, the Intel logo, and other Intel marks are trademarks of Intel Corporation or its subsidiaries.

About Napatech

Napatech is the leading supplier of SmartNIC solutions used in cloud, enterprise, and telecom datacenters. Through commercial-grade software suites integrated with high-performance hardware, Napatech accelerates network infrastructure and security workloads to deliver best-in-class system-level performance while maximizing the availability of server compute resources for applications and services. Additional information is available at www.napatech.com.

No Forward-Looking Statements

This press release may contain forward-looking statements which are only predictions and may differ materially from actual future events or results due to a variety of factors, including but not limited to, business conditions, trends in the industry and markets, global economic and geopolitical conditions, macro-economic factors, and other risks and uncertainties set forth in Napatech's reports. The matter discussed in this release is based on current expectations and may be subject to change. Napatech will not necessarily update this information. For details, visit us at www.napatech.com.

SOURCE Napatech
AGHDAM, Azerbaijan, August 29. Armenians in Karabakh have prevented convoy with humanitarian aid sent by Azerbaijan Red Crescent Society, Trend reports.

The Armenian separatists have not allowed a convoy with humanitarian cargo from Baku, which includes 40 tons of flour products, to pass through to Khankendi, and asked for more time to think.

The issue is not going to be resolved today, we were said that it would take some time, Secretary General of the Azerbaijan Red Crescent Society Jeyhun Mirzoev said.

Earlier, in the footage distributed on social networks, a resident of Khankendi has called for blocking the road for the passage of humanitarian aid vehicles sent today by the Azerbaijani Red Crescent Society with the words "I would rather die of hunger than eat flour given by a Turk".

The Azerbaijani side once again demonstrates a humanistic approach and sends humanitarian aid to citizens of Armenian origin living in Karabakh. The separatists, however, continue to sabotage Azerbaijan's attempts to establish peace in the region with such statements, and, moreover, expose their own propaganda about the so-called "humanitarian catastrophe".

The remnants of the separatist regime in Karabakh have long been trying in various ways to convince the world community and international organizations that Azerbaijan, by establishing a border crossing point on the Lachin road, is allegedly keeping the Armenian residents of Karabakh under "blockade", has created a "humanitarian crisis situation" for them, and that the Armenians are allegedly facing "food shortages".

Armenia, which continues to manipulate the existence of an alleged "tense humanitarian situation" and "blockade" in the region, is hindering the peace process instead of following through on the agreements reached to resolve issues related to the use of the Lachin road and other alternative roads to meet the needs of the Armenian residents of the Karabakh region.
PERTH AMBOY, N.J., Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Starting this week, National Alliance for Hispanic Health and Network of the National Library of Medicine in New Jersey will host the All of Us Journey, a traveling educational exhibit that brings the National Institutes of Health's All of Us Research Program to communities across the United States. The Journey features interactive activities, videos, games, quizzes, and moreall designed to demonstrate the power of participation in health research. Interested attendees will learn how they can help shape the future of health for themselves, their families, and their communities for generations to come. Attendees will also have the opportunity to register for the All of Us Research Program during their visit.

WHAT:

New Jersey is one stop on the All of Us Journey's national tour. The public are invited to attend and learn how they can help change the future of health as participants in the All of Us Research Program.

WHEN and WHERE:

Tuesday, August 29 to Friday September 1, 2023

10 a.m.  4 p.m.

Puerto Rican Association for Human Development, Inc.

100 1st St

Perth Amboy, NJ 08861

Tuesday, September 5 to Friday September 8, 2023

10 a.m.  4 p.m. on Tuesday to Thursday

8 a.m.  2 p.m. on Friday

Rowan University

201 Mullica Hill Road

Glassboro, NJ 08028

Tuesday, September 12 to Friday September 15, 2023

10 a.m.  4 p.m.

Centenary University

400 Jefferson St

Hackettstown, NJ 07840

The All of Us Research Program, led by the National Institutes of Health, aims to recruit at least one million participants that reflect the diversity of the United States. All of Us will help researchers understand more about why people get sick or stay healthy. To learn more about the All of Us Research Program and upcoming events, visit https://www.joinallofus.org/ .

About the All of Us Journey

All of Us is a registered service mark of the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services (HHS). The Journey is managed by Montage Marketing Group in collaboration with Scripps Research Translational Institute, and funded by the National Institutes of Health award OT2OD035580 .

For more information contact:

Patrice Robinson, Outreach Engagement Manager

Phone: (704) 221-9215

Email: [email protected]

SOURCE Montage Marketing Group
The new, collaborative office space signals accelerated innovation and growth for the offensive security company

MINNEAPOLIS, Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- NetSPI, the global leader in offensive security, today announced its new headquarters location in the Steelman Exchange building in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The decision to move was prompted by the increasing employee headcount and the need for a more collaborative workplace as the company continues to experience rapid adoption. In 2023 to date, NetSPI has hired 150+ employees, completed 2,733 offensive security assessments, and welcomed 238 new customers.

"The Steelman Exchange is the perfect fit for our team as we enter a momentous and pivotal year for NetSPI," shared Aaron Shilts, CEO at NetSPI. "This investment in our workplace will nurture our continued growth, promote collaboration and innovation in offensive security, and ensure we maintain the unique culture that makes NetSPI so special."

There are several initiatives driving the offensive security company's growth in 2023, including:

- Emphasis on defining NetSPI's offensive security product roadmap and vision, driven by continuous adoption of the company's Penetration Testing as a Service (PTaaS), Attack Surface Management (ASM), and Breach and Attack Simulation (BAS) platforms.

- Numerous innovations from the NetSPI Labs research and development team, including the launch of the Software as a Service (SaaS) Security Assessment and AI/ML Penetration Testing solutions. Along with ongoing industry research and responsible disclosures, including two Azure vulnerability disclosures from the NetSPI cloud penetration testing team.

- Recognition for its Attack Surface Management (ASM) solution by Gartner, Forrester, and the Global Infosec Awards.

- Expansion of the EMEA pentesting team and formalization of CREST and CHECK accreditations to perform mandated pentests in the region.

- Strategic leadership and Board of Directors appointments, including Vinay Anand as Chief Product Officer, Jay Golonka as Chief Financial Officer, Nick Walker as Director of EMEA, and Scott Lundgren and John Spiliotis as members of the Board of Directors.

- Exponential NetSPI Partner Program growth, with the introduction of 29 new partnerships in 2023 to date, including BMC Software, Optum, and Chubb.

- The release of NetSPI's inaugural Offensive Security Vision Report, with valuable insights on the top vulnerabilities by attack surface, the state of remediation, and cybersecurity hiring trends.

- The acquisition of nVisium which continues to support scalability and delivery of its offensive security solutions.

NetSPI has been honored as a Top Workplaces USA winner for the past two years and as one of the best places to work in the state of Minnesota for three consecutive years. This year, the company ranked #12 on the midsize companies list, with special recognition for its innovation, employee appreciation, work-life flexibility, compensation and benefits, leadership, and purpose and values.

"We will continue to prioritize flexible and remote work options as a company," explained Heather Crosley, VP of People Operations. "At the same time, we recognize that an intentional space to connect in-person can make an incredible impact on our ability to collaborate, innovate, and deliver the best offensive security solutions globally. And that's exactly what this new space is designed to do."

The move will take place in January 2024 and NetSPI will remain at its current headquarters at 800 N Washington Ave #670 in Minneapolis until then.

Michael Anderstrom at Colliers represented NetSPI in the transaction.

Visit www.netspi.com/careers to explore open roles in Minneapolis and its other US, India, Canada, and UK locations.

About NetSPI

NetSPI is the global leader in offensive security, delivering the most comprehensive suite of penetration testing, attack surface management, and breach and attack simulation solutions. Through a combination of technology innovation and human ingenuity NetSPI helps organizations discover, prioritize, and remediate security vulnerabilities. Its global cybersecurity experts are committed to securing the world's most prominent organizations, including nine of the top 10 U.S. banks, four of the top five leading cloud providers, four of the five largest healthcare companies, three FAANG companies, seven of the top 10 U.S. retailers & e-commerce companies, and many of the Fortune 500. NetSPI is headquartered in Minneapolis, MN, with offices across the U.S., Canada, the UK, and India.

Media Contacts

Tori Norris, NetSPI

[email protected]

(630) 258-0277

Jessica Bettencourt, Inkhouse for NetSPI

[email protected]

(774) 451-5142

SOURCE NetSPI
Women's health issues continue to be overlooked in society. This is one of several findings in Essity's Health and Hygiene Report 2023-2024, linking gender equality, care, and prevention to personal well-being and public progress, emphasizing the need for joint action to effect change.

STOCKHOLM, Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The Hygiene and Health Report 2023-2024: Advancing Health and Well-being through Care, Prevention, and Gender Equality, published by the global hygiene and health company Essity, demonstrates how hygiene and health act as catalysts for solving several global societal issues. By drawing on insights, research and interviews with leading experts, the report identifies areas that are critical for driving development and progress toward the UN Sustainable Development Goals.



"As a leading global hygiene and health company, Essity constantly strives to break barriers to hygiene and health and push toward improved well-being for individuals and societies. By engaging with a multitude of stakeholders, we aim to contribute to change and inspire further progress in global hygiene, health, and well-being," says Magnus Groth, President and CEO of Essity.



One of the findings in the report links investment in the health of women+ and girls to advancing gender equality and the well-being of society at large. At least 367 million children globally have no sanitation services in their schools, which creates barriers to achieving good menstrual health.* Menopause also tends to get overlooked in different parts of society, for example in the workplace, although an estimated 1.1 billion women+ worldwide are expected to experience one of the phases associated with menopause by 2025.**



In addition to gender equality, the report also identifies the value of care and caregivers, and the need for proactive investment in hygiene, sanitation, and other measures to foster resilient healthcare systems. It is estimated that family members account for a staggering 80% of care provision, and two-thirds of all people globally will become caregivers at some point in their lives.*** It is also estimated that within the EU, the cost of workplace absenteeism due to illness corresponds to 2.5% of GDP.****



Anna Brodowsky, Vice President Public Affairs of Essity, adds:

"We know that the health and well-being of individuals and society benefit by investing in care, prevention, and gender equality. The UN Sustainable Development Goals serve as an essential framework to promote a more healthy and inclusive future. By setting priorities, establishing effective policies and also taking these actions at a national level, change can start to happen."



* UNICEF and WHO (2020) Progress on drinking water, sanitation, and hygiene in schools: Special focus on COVID-19.

** Essity (2022) Global Hygiene and Health Survey 2022: The Future of Well-being.

*** Brody, J. E. (2008, November 10). When Families Take Care of Their Own. The New York Times.

**** Human Capital Hub (2022). Absenteeism in the workplace: Impact, causes, and policies. Human Capital Hub.



Snapshots from the report

Investing in women+'s and girls' health

 At least 367 million children globally have no sanitation services in their schools, which creates barriers to achieving good menstrual health.

 In 2025, an estimated 1.1 billion women+ worldwide are expected to experience one of the phases associated with menopause. However, menopause is often surrounded by stigma and overlooked in different parts of society, for example in the workplace.

The care economy

 80% of care provision comes from family members, and two-thirds of all people globally will become caregivers at some point in their lives.

 Healthcare systems are under pressure due to, among other reasons, demographic shifts, and an increasing need for care, while the number of caregivers is declining.

Prevention for preparedness

 There are no official global numbers, but within the EU it is estimated that workplace absenteeism due to illness costs 2.5% of GDP (Gross Domestic Product).

 Globally, the lack of access to basic hygiene services is a key contributor to the spread of infections and disease. This has many root causes, including limited access to handwashing facilities, poor sanitation, insufficient cleaning, and a lack of hygiene education.

About the report

The Hygiene and Health Report by the global hygiene and health company Essity has been published biennially since 2008 with the aim of contributing to the global dialogue concerning hygiene, health and well-being through knowledge and insights, anchored in current and forthcoming global agendas. The full version of the latest report can be accessed here.

For further information, please contact:

Helena Hansen, Media Relations Manager, +46 70 616 96 69 [email protected]

The following files are available for download:

https://mb.cision.com/Main/15798/3825211/2257935.pdf Essity Press release https://news.cision.com/essity/i/hygiene-and-health-report-2023-2024,c3210223 Hygiene and Health Report 2023-2024

SOURCE Essity
VANCOUVER, BC, Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ - NexGen Energy Ltd. ("NexGen" or the "Company") (TSX: NXE) (NYSE: NXE) (ASX: NXG) is pleased to announce the appointment of Ben Salter as Chief Financial Officer ("CFO"), effective September 1, 2023. Mr. Salter commenced with NexGen in June 2021 and currently holds the role of Vice President, Finance. He has extensive experience in financial reporting, regulatory compliance, internal controls, and corporate finance activities. Mr. Salter is a Chartered Professional Accountant and holds a Bachelor of Commerce from the University of Victoria. Prior to NexGen, Mr. Salter worked at Methanex Corporation and Innergex Renewable Energy Inc. (previously Alterra Power Corp.) where he was responsible for financial reporting, controls and systems. Mr. Salter will assume the CFO position upon the resignation of Harpreet Dhaliwal who is pursuing other career interests.

Leigh Curyer, Chief Executive Officer, commented: "Ben has been an important part of NexGen's growth journey, and has consistently demonstrated exceptional commitment to the Company. His extensive knowledge of NexGen's financial landscape and requirements, combined with strong leadership abilities, make him the ideal candidate for the role of CFO, and positions the Company for an expansion. The entire NexGen leadership team and the Board of Directors would like to thank Harpreet for her valuable contributions during her time with the Company. Harpreet played a significant role in implementing key financial systems."

In addition, the Company is delighted to welcome Tracy Primeau as a Special Advisor specializing in community. With an extensive background in nuclear energy, Tracy's journey began at Ontario Power Generation's Pickering Nuclear Power Station, leading her to become one of the few women to attain a Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission ("CNSC") license at Bruce Power and its sole female Shift Manager. A dedicated board member of both Ontario Power Generation and Women in Nuclear ("WiN") Canada, Tracy's commitment extends beyond the industry, notably as an influential mentor, active community participant, and proud Nipissing First Nation member. Her leadership, rooted in the Seven Grandfather Teachings, continues to inspire change and education on climate and Indigenous knowledge.

Mr. Curyer commented: "On behalf of the Board and Executive, it is a privilege to have Tracy join us at this exciting pivotal stage in the Company's development. Her vast experience and aligned values with respect to genuine community engagement and advancement will further compliment NexGen's demonstrated commitment in driving transformative change for all stakeholders."

About NexGen

NexGen Energy is a Canadian company focused on delivering clean energy fuel for the future. The Company's flagship Rook I Project is being optimally developed into the largest low cost producing uranium mine globally, incorporating the most elite standards in environmental and social governance. The Rook I Project is supported by a NI 43-101 compliant Feasibility Study which outlines the elite environmental performance and industry leading economics. NexGen is led by a team of experienced uranium and mining industry professionals with expertise across the entire mining life cycle, including exploration, financing, project engineering and construction, operations and closure. NexGen is leveraging its proven experience to deliver a Project that leads the entire mining industry socially, technically and environmentally. The Project and prospective portfolio in northern Saskatchewan will provide generational long-term economic, environmental, and social benefits for Saskatchewan, Canada, and the world.

NexGen is listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange, the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol "NXE" and on the Australian Securities Exchange under the ticker symbol "NXG" providing access to global investors to participate in NexGen's mission of solving three major global challenges in decarbonization, energy security and access to power. The Company is headquartered in Vancouver, British Columbia, with its primary operations office in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan.

Forward-Looking Information

The information contained herein contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of applicable United States securities laws and regulations and "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. "Forward-looking information" includes, but is not limited to, statements with respect to mineral reserve and mineral resource estimates, the 2021 Arrow Deposit, Rook I Project and estimates of uranium production, grade and long-term average uranium prices, anticipated effects of completed drill results on the Rook I Project, planned work programs, completion of further site investigations and engineering work to support basic engineering of the project and expected outcomes. Generally, but not always, forward-looking information and statements can be identified by the use of words such as "plans", "expects", "is expected", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates", or "believes" or the negative connotation thereof or variations of such words and phrases or state that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will be taken", "occur" or "be achieved" or the negative connotation thereof. Statements relating to "mineral resources" are deemed to be forward-looking information, as they involve the implied assessment that, based on certain estimates and assumptions, the mineral resources described can be profitably produced in the future.

Forward-looking information and statements are based on the then current expectations, beliefs, assumptions, estimates and forecasts about NexGen's business and the industry and markets in which it operates. Forward-looking information and statements are made based upon numerous assumptions, including among others, that the mineral reserve and resources estimates and the key assumptions and parameters on which such estimates are based are as set out in this news release and the technical report for the property , the results of planned exploration activities are as anticipated, the price and market supply of uranium, the cost of planned exploration activities, that financing will be available if and when needed and on reasonable terms, that third party contractors, equipment, supplies and governmental and other approvals required to conduct NexGen's planned exploration activities will be available on reasonable terms and in a timely manner and that general business and economic conditions will not change in a material adverse manner. Although the assumptions made by the Company in providing forward looking information or making forward looking statements are considered reasonable by management at the time, there can be no assurance that such assumptions will prove to be accurate in the future.

Forward-looking information and statements also involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties and other factors, which may cause actual results, performances and achievements of NexGen to differ materially from any projections of results, performances and achievements of NexGen expressed or implied by such forward-looking information or statements, including, among others, the existence of negative operating cash flow and dependence on third party financing, uncertainty of the availability of additional financing, the risk that pending assay results will not confirm previously announced preliminary results, conclusions of economic valuations, the risk that actual results of exploration activities will be different than anticipated, the cost of labour, equipment or materials will increase more than expected, that the future price of uranium will decline or otherwise not rise to an economic level, the appeal of alternate sources of energy to uranium-produced energy, that the Canadian dollar will strengthen against the U.S. dollar, that mineral resources and reserves are not as estimated, that actual costs or actual results of reclamation activities are greater than expected, that changes in project parameters and plans continue to be refined and may result in increased costs, of unexpected variations in mineral resources and reserves, grade or recovery rates or other risks generally associated with mining, unanticipated delays in obtaining governmental, regulatory or First Nations approvals, risks related to First Nations title and consultation, reliance upon key management and other personnel, deficiencies in the Company's title to its properties, uninsurable risks, failure to manage conflicts of interest, failure to obtain or maintain required permits and licences, risks related to changes in laws, regulations, policy and public perception, as well as those factors or other risks as more fully described in NexGen's Annual Information Form dated February 24, 2023 filed with the securities commissions of all of the provinces of Canada except Quebec and in NexGen's 40-F filed with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission, which are available on SEDAR at www.sedar.com and Edgar at www.sec.gov .

Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in the forward-looking information or statements or implied by forward-looking information or statements, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking information or statements due to the inherent uncertainty thereof.

There can be no assurance that forward-looking information and statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated, estimated or intended. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements or information. The Company undertakes no obligation to update or reissue forward-looking information as a result of new information or events except as required by applicable securities laws.

SOURCE NexGen Energy Ltd.
ARLINGTON, Va., Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Following Florida's recent law making E-Verify mandatory for employers of 25 employees or more, E-Verify was highlighted as a rapidly emerging issue at the 2023 National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL) Legislative Summit that was held in Indianapolis, IN.

NumbersUSA, the nation's largest single-issue advocacy group, presented the exhibit illustrating the status of E-Verify nationally.

NumbersUSA, the nation's largest single-issue advocacy group, presented the exhibit illustrating the status of E-Verify Post this E-Verify Map

E-Verify is a free, online portal where employers can check that their new hires are legally authorized to work in the United States. President Obama made E-Verify mandatory for all Federal agencies and contractors. Still, it remains optionable for private businesses to use instead of the I-9 Federal form system which detractors say is antiquated, cumbersome, and easily subject to fraud.

"80% of the voters are in favor of E-Verify and that was about the split for legislators who dropped by and spoke with us," said Andrew Good, Chief of Staff for NumbersUSA's State Government Relationships organization. Good added, "Even those who disagreed weren't really arguing against the E-Verify system. The big question is, which ones are going to take the ball and run with it."

NumbersUSA empowers voters to achieve better, sensible immigration policies. The NCSL exhibit illustrated that 18 states have some form of E-Verify requirement and that seven states make E-Verify mandatory for all or most businesses. Over 48 million new hires had their authorization to work in the United States verified last year through E-Verify.

"E-Verify is one of the most impactful things state legislatures can do to deter future illegal immigration and to protect jobs and wages for their state's lawful residents," commented Chris Chmielenski, Director of State Government Relations for NumbersUSA. Chmielenski continued, "Moreover, a state's ability to require employers to use E-Verify has been upheld by the Supreme Court of the United States."

According to a 2017 report from the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas, those states that have implemented mandatory E-Verify for all employers have seen reduction in the presence of undocumented migrants illegally seeking jobs without authorization to work reduced up to 83%.

"We strive to educate the public and elected officials on the issues and laws regarding immigration," remarked James Massa, CEO of NumbersUSA. He concluded, "It was encouraging to discuss the issues with stakeholders from across the country and from both sides of the aisle."

About NumbersUSA

NumbersUSA supports a balanced immigration system that welcomes the spouses and minor children of U.S. citizens and legal permanent residents, is responsive to acute refugee crises, attracts those with extraordinary ability and talents, addresses temporary labor shortages, and protects the most vulnerable. NumbersUSA is a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization that believes better immigration policy is needed and possible. As America's largest single-issue advocacy group, focused exclusively on immigration reform, NumbersUSA has 8 million grassroots supporters spread across every congressional district. Founded solely by Roy Beck in 1996 to promote civil debate on the immigration recommendations of the U.S. Commission on Immigration Reform - chaired by civil rights icon Barbara Jordan, NumbersUSA continues to advocate for sensible immigration policies that ensure Americans' safety, promote economic fairness, while protecting the environment and quality of life.

Media Contact:

Colin Valentine

Email: [email protected]

SOURCE NumbersUSA
Popular Southern California gateway will see double-digit passenger increases during Labor Day weekend

ONTARIO, Calif. , Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Ontario International Airport (ONT) officials expect to complete the summer travel season on a high note with double-digit increases in passenger volume during the Labor Day weekend.

Based on current airline schedules, more than 102,000 passengers are anticipated at ONT over the five-day holiday from August 31 to September 4, 16.6% more than Labor Day weekend last year and 27.5% more than pre-pandemic 2019.

Southern California's Ontario International Airport is expecting a strong Labor Day travel season.

Last year, ONT exceeded its initial forecast to welcome more than 87,000 Labor Day weekend travelers. In 2019, the passenger count surpassed 80,000.

Labor Day

Wknd 2023 Estimated Passengers Versus 2022 Versus 2019 Total

Seats Versus

2022 Versus 2019

102,239 +16.6 % +27.5 121,342 +18.3 % +28.4 %

Ontario airport officials reported record setting year-over-year passenger volumes in each of the last three months, signaling increased popularity for the Southern California gateway among local travelers and visitors.

Throughout the summer travel season, ONT travelers have taken advantage of air services to popular domestic and international destinations that were not offered by air carriers or were available with less frequency and smaller airplanes in 2022 to such destinations as Atlanta, Dallas, Las Vegas, San Francisco, Seattle, Guadalajara, San Salvador and Taipei.

"The air travel industry is highly competitive, yet Ontario is growing passenger volume month after month," said Atif Elkadi, chief executive officer of the Ontario International Airport Authority. "We've always prided ourselves on our modern facilities, appealing in-terminal concessions and convenient parking, and we look forward to delivering our hallmark hassle-free customer experience during the upcoming Labor Day holiday weekend and beyond."

About Ontario International Airport

Ontario International Airport (ONT) is the fastest growing airport in the United States, according to Global Traveler, a leading publication for frequent fliers. Located in the Inland Empire, ONT is approximately 35 miles east of downtown Los Angeles in the center of Southern California. It is a full-service airport which offers nonstop commercial jet service to nearly two dozen major airports in the U.S., Mexico, Central America and Taiwan. More information is available at www.flyOntario.com. Follow @flyONT on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram

About the Ontario International Airport Authority (OIAA)

The OIAA was formed in August 2012 by a Joint Powers Agreement between the City of Ontario and the County of San Bernardino to provide overall direction for the management, operations, development and marketing of ONT for the benefit of the Southern California economy and the residents of the airport's four-county catchment area. OIAA Commissioners are Ontario City Councilmember Alan D. Wapner (President), Retired Riverside Mayor Ronald O. Loveridge (Vice President), Ontario City Council Member Jim W. Bowman (Secretary), San Bernardino County Supervisor Curt Hagman (Commissioner) and retired business executive Julia Gouw (Commissioner).

OIAA Media Contact:

Steve Lambert, (909) 841-7527 [email protected]

SOURCE Ontario International Airport
VANCOUVER, BC, Aug. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ - (SYDNEY, Aug. 29, 2023)

Highlights

Photo 1: View of the western extension being actively drilled at the CV5 Spodumene Pegmatite (view looking eastward). (CNW Group/Patriot Battery Metals Inc) Photo 2: Multiple spodumene pegmatite outcrops over approximately 425 m trend at CV9. (CNW Group/Patriot Battery Metals Inc)

A total of approximately 35 holes and 10,100 m have been completed to date since the start of the summer-fall drill program with a goal to expand the current 109.2 Mt at 1.42% Li 2 O inferred resource 1 .





have been completed to date since the start of the summer-fall drill program with a goal to expand the current inferred resource . Four (4) drill rigs active at site , planned to be increased to five (5) by month end, and to seven (7) by mid-September .





, planned to be increased to five (5) by month end, and to . Two (2) rigs active over westward extension of CV5, one (1) rig active over the eastern portion of CV5, and one (1) rig active at CV13.







Two (2) rigs continue to drill at 50 to 100 m spacings over the westward extension of CV5 towards CV13. The most westerly reported drill hole to date at CV5 returned 101.5 m at 0.86% Li 2 O (CV23-184, see news release dated July 10, 2023 ).





at 0.86% Li O (CV23-184, see news release dated ).



One (1) barge mounted rig at the eastern end of CV5 to convert unclassified mineralisation into resource (i.e., mineralised pegmatite outside resource current pit constraints).









One (1) rig at CV13 focused on step-out delineation drilling along the collective ~2.3 km trend of spodumene pegmatite outcrop. Maiden drill testing returned results including 22.6 m at 1.56% Li 2 O (CV22-092, see news release dated February 13, 2023 ).





at 1.56% Li O (CV22-092, see news release dated ). Next three (3) rigs to support continued extension drilling at CV5, continued delineation drilling at CV13, and maiden drill testing of the CV9 Spodumene Pegmatite .





. The NI 43-101 Technical Report on the CV5 mineral resource estimate is proceeding as scheduled and will be filed in the first half of September. Due to coordination of ramp-up activities on site, coupled with pending completion and filing of the technical report, the announcement of new drill hole results will follow shortly thereafter in September.





As of August 24, 2023 , the traffic restrictions caused by local wildfires have been lifted. roads in the area, including the Trans-Taiga Road and Billy Diamond Highway, are once again open to traffic.

Darren L. Smith, Company Vice President of Exploration, comments: "With our maiden mineral resource estimate at CV5 behind us pending filing of the technical report, confirming it as a Tier 1 world class lithium pegmatite deposit, and access re-opening to the region, we are focused on a coordinated ramp-up of our exploration and development activities on site. It has been a very challenging summer for the region; however, we are well positioned to make up for some of the lost time."

Blair Way, Company President and CEO, comments: "With $150 million in the treasury, we have a busy year ahead of us. It took just shy of 60,000 metres and $45 million of expenditures to deliver 100% ownership of the Property and the maiden CV5 mineral resource, so there is a lot to look forward to at the Corvette Property. "

Patriot Battery Metals Inc. (the "Company" or "Patriot") (TSX-V: PMET) (ASX: PMT) (OTCQX: PMETF) (FSE: R9GA) is pleased to provide an update on its drilling activities at its wholly owned Corvette Property (the "Property"), located in the Eeyou Istchee James Bay region of Quebec. The Property hosts the CV5 spodumene pegmatite (maiden mineral resource of 109.2 Mt at 1.42% Li 2 O inferred1), one of the largest lithium pegmatites in the world, located approximately 13.5 kilometres south of the regional and all-weather Trans-Taiga Road and power line infrastructure corridor, and within 50 km of the La-Grande 4 (LG4) hydroelectric dam complex.

Since recommencing exploration at the Property in early August, the Company has coordinated a steady ramp-up of its drilling activities on site. The Company has drilled more than 10,000 m already this summer even with the wildfires. Two (2) drill rigs are focused on 50 to 100 m spaced step-outs westward at the CV5 Spodumene Pegmatite towards CV13, and one (1) rig on continued delineation at the CV13 Spodumene Pegmatite. A fourth, barge mounted drill rig, has commenced drilling over the near-surface eastern areas of CV5. This latter area was not included in the maiden mineral resource estimate's block model (see news release dated July 30, 2023). The Company anticipates adding a fifth rig (barge mounted) by months end to drill areas of CV5 that are difficult to access by land or ice. Another two (2) rigs are scheduled to commence drilling by mid-September with the first being deployed at CV13, and the second for initial drill testing at the CV9 Spodumene Pegmatite cluster. This will bring the total number of active diamond drill rigs on site to seven (7) with activity focused at the CV5, CV13, and CV9 spodumene pegmatites.

Additionally, the Company notes that the NI 43-101 Technical Report on the CV5 mineral resource estimate is proceeding as scheduled and will be filed in the first half of September. Due to coordination of ramp-up activities on site, coupled with pending completion and filing of the technical report, the announcement of new drill hole results will follow shortly thereafter in September. This is applicable for all 2023 summer drill holes completed to date.

Traffic restrictions caused by local wildfires that have been in place to one extent or another since the end of May 2023 have been lifted. As of August 24, 2023, all roads in the area, including the Trans-Taiga Road and Billy Diamond Highway, have reopened to traffic.

The Company looks forward to resuming its regular program updates, including drill results, following filing of the NI 43-101 Technical Report on the maiden mineral resource estimate for the CV5 Spodumene Pegmatite. The CV5 Spodumene Pegmatite hosts an inferred mineral resource1 of 109.2 Mt at 1.42% Li 2 O and 160 ppm Ta 2 O 5 , at a cut-off of 0.40% Li 2 O, which ranks it as the largest lithium pegmatite resource in the Americas (based on contained LCE) and the 8th largest lithium pegmatite mineral resource in the world (see news release dated July 30, 2023).

CV5 mineral resource estimate (109.2 Mt at 1.42% Li 2 O and 160 ppm Ta 2 O 5 inferred) is reported at a cut-off grade of 0.40% Li 2 O with effective date of June 25, 2023 . Mineral resources are not mineral reserves as they do not have demonstrated economic viability.

About the CV Lithium Trend

The CV Lithium Trend is an emerging spodumene pegmatite district discovered by the Company in 2017 and is interpreted to span more than 50 kilometres across the Corvette Property. The core area includes an approximate 3.7-km long spodumene pegmatite (the 'CV5 Pegmatite') and multiple proximal secondary spodumene pegmatite lenses.

To date, seven (7) distinct clusters of lithium pegmatite have been discovered across the Corvette Property  CV4, CV5, CV8, CV9, CV10, CV12, and CV13. Given the proximity of some pegmatite outcrops to each other, as well as the shallow till cover in the area, it is probable that some of the outcrops may reflect a discontinuous surface exposure of a single, larger pegmatite 'outcrop' subsurface. Further, the high number of well-mineralized pegmatites along the trend indicate a strong potential for a series of relatively closely spaced/stacked, sub-parallel, and sizable spodumene-bearing pegmatite bodies, with significant lateral and depth extent, to be present.

Qualified/Competent Person

The information in this news release that relates to exploration results for the Corvette Property is based on, and fairly represents, information compiled by Mr. Darren L. Smith, M.Sc., P.Geo., who is a Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101, and member in good standing with the Ordre des Geologues du Quebec (Geologist Permit number 1968), and with the Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of Alberta (member number 87868). Mr. Smith has reviewed and approved the technical information in this news release.

Mr. Smith is Vice President of Exploration for Patriot Battery Metals Inc. and holds common shares and options in the Company.

Mr. Smith has sufficient experience, which is relevant to the style of mineralization, type of deposit under consideration, and to the activities being undertaken to qualify as a Competent Person as described by the JORC Code, 2012. Mr. Smith consents to the inclusion in this news release of the matters based on his information in the form and context in which it appears.

About Patriot Battery Metals Inc.

Patriot Battery Metals Inc. is a hard-rock lithium exploration company focused on advancing its district-scale 100% owned Corvette Property located in the Eeyou Istchee James Bay region of Quebec, Canada, and proximal to regional road and powerline infrastructure. The Corvette Property hosts the CV5 Spodumene Pegmatite with a maiden inferred mineral resource estimate1 of 109.2 Mt at 1.42% Li 2 O and ranks as the largest lithium pegmatite resource in the Americas based on contained LCE, and one of the top 10 largest lithium pegmatite resources in the world. Additionally, the Corvette Property hosts multiple other spodumene pegmatite clusters that remain to be drill tested, as well as more than 20 km of prospective trend that remain to be assessed.

Mineral resources are not minerals reserves as they do not have demonstrated economic viability. The Effective Date of the mineral resource estimate is June 25, 2023 (through drill hole CV23-190) and base case cut-off grade 0.40% Li 2 O.

For further information, please contact us at [email protected] or by calling +1 (604) 279-8709, or visit www.patriotbatterymetals.com. Please also refer to the Company's continuous disclosure filings, available under its profile at www.sedarplus.ca and www.asx.com.au, for available exploration data.

This news release has been approved by the Board of Directors,

"BLAIR WAY"

Blair Way, President, CEO, & Director

Disclaimer for Forward-Looking Information

This news release contains "forward-looking information" or "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of applicable securities laws and other statements that are not historical facts. Forward-looking statements are included to provide information about management's current expectations and plans that allows investors and others to have a better understanding of the Company's business plans and financial performance and condition.

All statements, other than statements of historical fact included in this news release, regarding the Company's strategy, future operations, financial position, prospects, plans and objectives of management are forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. Forward-looking statements are typically identified by words such as "plan", "expect", "estimate", "intend", "anticipate", "believe", or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will" be taken, occur or be achieved. In particular and without limitation, this news release contains forward-looking statements pertaining to the summer-fall drilling program and the completion and publication of Company's technical report comprising the maiden mineral resource estimate in respect of the Corvette Lithium Project.

Forward-looking information is based upon certain assumptions and other important factors that, if untrue, could cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such information or statements. There can be no assurance that such information or statements will prove to be accurate. Key assumptions upon which the Company's forward-looking information is based include the total funding required to complete the Company's Corvette Lithium Project, including the drilling program.

Readers are cautioned that the foregoing list is not exhaustive of all factors and assumptions which may have been used. Forward-looking statements are also subject to risks and uncertainties facing the Company's business, any of which could have a material adverse effect on the Company's business, financial condition, results of operations and growth prospects. Some of the risks the Company faces and the uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking statements include, among others, the ability to execute on plans relating to the Company's Corvette Lithium Project, including the timing thereof. In addition, readers are directed to carefully review the detailed risk discussion in the Company's most recent Annual Information Form filed on SEDAR+, which discussion is incorporated by reference in this news release, for a fuller understanding of the risks and uncertainties that affect the Company's business and operations.

Although the Company believes its expectations are based upon reasonable assumptions and has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual actions, events or results to differ materially from those described in forward-looking statements, there may be other factors that cause actions, events or results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that forward-looking information will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such information. As such, these risks are not exhaustive; however, they should be considered carefully. If any of these risks or uncertainties materialize, actual results may vary materially from those anticipated in the forward-looking statements found herein. Due to the risks, uncertainties and assumptions inherent in forward-looking statements, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements.

Forward-looking statements contained herein are presented for the purpose of assisting investors in understanding the Company's business plans, financial performance and condition and may not be appropriate for other purposes.

The forward-looking statements contained herein are made only as of the date hereof. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except to the extent required by applicable law. The Company qualifies all of its forward-looking statements by these cautionary statements.

Competent Person Statement (ASX Listing Rule 5.22)

The mineral resource estimate in this release was reported by the Company in accordance with ASX Listing Rule 5.8 on July 31, 2023. The Company confirms it is not aware of any new information or data that materially affects the information included in the previous announcements and that all material assumptions and technical parameters underpinning the estimates in the previous announcements continue to apply and have not materially changed.

SOURCE Patriot Battery Metals Inc
Conference Call/Webcast Today at 5 pm ET

TORONTO and DALLAS, Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ - Perimeter Medical Imaging AI, Inc. (TSXV: PINK) (OTC: PYNKF) (FSE: 4PC) ("Perimeter" or the "Company")  a commercial-stage medical technology company  today reported financial results for its second quarter ended June 30, 2023 and provided a corporate update.

Key Highlights

Completed a leadership transition with appointment of new CEO and Board member, and expanded its leadership team with appointment of CFO and Chief Innovation Officer





with appointment of new CEO and Board member, and expanded its leadership team with appointment of CFO and Chief Innovation Officer Received regulatory approval to implement a substantially enhanced AI algorithm in the ongoing pivotal clinical trial under the existing study protocol





Initiated additional clinical trial sites at Baptist MD Anderson Cancer Center and Mayo Clinic in Florida





and Mayo Clinic in Expanded its customer base with commercial installations of Perimeter's flagship S-Series OCT in the states of Utah and Georgia

Adrian Mendes, Perimeter's Chief Executive Officer stated, "I am pleased to report a number of significant developments within the business since joining Perimeter as its CEO this quarter. Concurrent with my appointment, Dr. Josh Vose joined our Board of Directors and has provided invaluable insights into our clinical development program. Importantly, we received approval from the FDA to introduce an enhanced AI algorithm in the ongoing clinical trial under the existing study protocol. As a result, all clinical trial sites, including the newest trial site at Mayo Clinic in Florida, will use the updated AI as patients continue to enroll in the study. We are currently engaged in ongoing discussions with the FDA to reach alignment on subject enrollment and secondary reporting within the clinical trial, and we intend to provide an update on guidance and next steps when this regulatory feedback is received.

Mr. Mendes continued, "I believe the introduction of this improved AI is a pivotal milestone for the company and the best path forward, as it will contribute to more accurate image classifications, as well as fewer false positives and negatives, with the goal of ultimately compiling a robust data package that supports the commercialization of Perimeter B-Series OCT with ImgAssist AI. The combination of advanced AI technology with OCT truly represents the next-generation of innovations coming out of Perimeter that could potentially change the standard of care in breast conservation surgery, and it was a key element that attracted me  as well as world-class leaders such as Anantha Kancherla, Former Head of AI Platform at Meta  to the company."

Mr. Mendes added, "We continue to grow our roster of highly respected surgeons and key opinion leaders, who are championing our flagship Perimeter S-Series OCT and establishing the foundational 'reference sites' for Perimeter's transformational technologies. Of note, we continue to generate new sales leads and commercial demos, with recent expansion into the states of Utah and Georgia. In addition, I am pleased to report that Sara Brien will become Perimeter's Chief Financial Officer, effective September 1, 2023. We are grateful for Russell Wagner's service as our interim CFO, and he and Sara will work together to ensure a smooth transition on this front. I am also pleased to confirm Andrew Berkeley, one of Perimeter's co-founders, will transition his role to Chief Innovation Officer, which reflects Andrew's deep technical and clinical knowledge and our commitment to continue to develop game-changing technologies by applying engineering advancements and innovation across all areas of the business."

Business Updates

Perimeter completed the first commercial placement of its flagship Perimeter S-Series OCT system in the state of Utah , and, subsequent to quarter-end, completed its first commercial placement in the state of Georgia .





, and, subsequent to quarter-end, completed its first commercial placement in the state of . Perimeter provided an update on its ongoing multi-center, randomized two-arm pivotal clinical trial led by Principal Investigator, Dr. Alastair Thompson at the Baylor College of Medicine in Houston . The study is evaluating the use of Perimeter B-Series OCT combined with its proprietary ImgAssist AI software during breast conservation surgery.





at the in . The study is evaluating the use of Perimeter B-Series OCT combined with its proprietary ImgAssist AI software during breast conservation surgery. Perimeter received approval from the FDA to introduce an enhanced AI algorithm in the ongoing clinical trial under the existing study protocol. As a result, all clinical trial sites will use the updated AI as patients continue to enroll in the ongoing study.







The new enhanced AI takes advantage of additional training data and Perimeter's latest AI advancements that demonstrate improved sensitivity, specificity, precision, and recall. It is expected that this updated version of ImgAssist AI will contribute to more accurate classification, as well as fewer false positives and negatives.







To further support patient enrollment, Perimeter initiated an additional clinical trial site at Baptist MD Anderson Cancer Center in Jacksonville, FL , and, subsequent to quarter end, initiated another clinical trial site at Mayo Clinic in Florida .





, and, subsequent to quarter end, initiated another clinical trial site at Mayo Clinic in .

Perimeter is currently engaged in ongoing discussions with the FDA to reach alignment on subject enrollment and secondary reporting, which is expected over the next couple of weeks. Updated guidance on study completion will be provided following receipt of FDA feedback.





Perimeter expanded its leadership team by adding Dr. Josh Vose to Perimeter's Board of Directors. The recent leadership transition also included the appointment of Adrian Mendes as Chief Executive Officer and the transition of Andrew Berkeley (company co-founder) to Chief Innovation Officer, in support of the company's strategic focus on product innovation. In addition, Sara Brien will be appointed Chief Financial Officer (effective September 1, 2023 ) subject to customary regulatory approvals.





to Perimeter's Board of Directors. The recent leadership transition also included the appointment of as Chief Executive Officer and the transition of (company co-founder) to Chief Innovation Officer, in support of the company's strategic focus on product innovation. In addition, will be appointed Chief Financial Officer (effective ) subject to customary regulatory approvals. Ms. Brien is an accomplished finance leader with over 20 years of experience across a variety of healthcare verticals including pharmaceuticals, diagnostics, MedTech and HealthTech. She holds a Certified Management Accountant (CMA) designation, and graduated with honors from the University of Waterloo in Ontario, Canada , with a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology and a Masters of Management Science with a focus on operations. Recently, she was a Sloan Fellow at the London Business School , where she completed a Masters in Leadership and Strategy program.

Summary of Second Quarter 2023 Financial Results

All of the amounts are expressed in U.S. dollars unless otherwise indicated and are presented in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards ("IFRS") as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board. The Company changed its presentation currency from Canadian dollars to United States dollars in 2022. The change in presentation currency was made to improve investors' ability to compare the Company's financial results with other publicly traded businesses in the industry. In making the change to a US dollar presentation currency, the Company followed the guidance in IAS 21, The Effects of Changes in Foreign Exchange Rates and has applied the change retrospectively to all prior periods as if the new presentation currency had always been the Company's presentation currency.

Operating expenses for the three months ended June 30, 2023 were $3,353,060 compared to $4,963,622 during the same period in 2022.

For the three months ended June 30, 2023, the net loss was $4,904,919 compared to $286,163 during the same period in 2022.

For the six months ended June 30, 2023, cash used in operating activities was $7,180,611 compared to $7,883,265 for the same period in 2022.

As June 30, 2023, cash and cash equivalents were $20,889,719.

For detailed financial results, please refer to Perimeter's SEDAR filings and the Company's website.

Conference Call

The Company will host a conference call and live audio webcast today, Tuesday, August 29, 2023, at 5:00 pm Eastern Time to discuss its second quarter 2023 results and to provide a corporate update. To participate in the call, please dial 1-877-704-4453, or 1-201-389-0920 for international callers, and provide conference ID number 13740570. The conference call will also be broadcast live online through a listen-only webcast , which will be posted on the Investors section of the Company's website. The webcast will be archived on the Company's investor relations webpage for at least 90 days. A telephonic playback of the conference call will be available for 14 days after the conference call by calling 1-844-512-2921 or 1-412-317-6671 and referencing conference ID 13740570. The above listed dates and times are subject to change.

About Perimeter Medical Imaging AI, Inc.

Based in Toronto, Canada and Dallas, Texas, Perimeter Medical Imaging AI (TSX-V: PINK) (OTC: PYNKF) (FSE: 4PC) is a medical technology company driven to transform cancer surgery with ultra-high-resolution, real-time, advanced imaging tools to address areas of high unmet medical need. Available across the U.S., our FDA-cleared Perimeter S-Series OCT system provides real-time, cross-sectional visualization of excised tissues at the cellular level. The breakthrough-device-designated investigational Perimeter B-Series OCT with ImgAssist AI represents our next-generation artificial intelligence technology that is currently being evaluated in a pivotal clinical trial, with support from a grant of up to US$7.4 million awarded by the Cancer Prevention and Research Institute of Texas. The company's ticker symbol "PINK" is a reference to the pink ribbons used during Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Forward-Looking Statements

This news release contains statements that constitute "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. In this news release, words such as "may," "would," "could," "will," "likely," "believe," "expect," "anticipate," "intend," "plan," "estimate," and similar words and the negative form thereof are used to identify forward-looking statements. Forward-looking information may relate to management's future outlook and anticipated events or results and may include statements or information regarding the future financial position, business strategy and strategic goals, competitive conditions, research and development activities, projected costs and capital expenditures, research and clinical testing outcomes, taxes and plans and objectives of, or involving, Perimeter. Without limitation, information regarding the potential benefits of Perimeter S-Series OCT and Perimeter B-Series OCT, the expected benefits of Perimeter's updated version of its ImgAssist AI, and the expected details regarding Perimeter's ongoing clinical trials, are forward-looking information. Forward-looking statements should not be read as guarantees of future performance or results, and will not necessarily be accurate indications of whether, or the times at or by which, any particular result will be achieved. No assurance can be given that any events anticipated by the forward-looking information will transpire or occur. Forward-looking information is based on information available at the time and/or management's good-faith belief with respect to future events and are subject to known or unknown risks, uncertainties, assumptions, and other unpredictable factors, many of which are beyond Perimeter's control. Such forward-looking statements reflect Perimeter's current view with respect to future events, but are inherently subject to significant medical, scientific, business, economic, competitive, political, and social uncertainties and contingencies. In making forward-looking statements, Perimeter may make various material assumptions, including but not limited to (i) the accuracy of Perimeter's financial projections; (ii) obtaining positive results from trials; (iii) obtaining necessary regulatory approvals; and (iv) general business, market, and economic conditions. Further risks, uncertainties and assumptions include, but are not limited to, those applicable to Perimeter and described in Perimeter's Management Discussion and Analysis for the year ended December 31, 2022, which is available on Perimeter's SEDAR+ profile at https://www.sedarplus.ca , and could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those projected in any forward-looking statements. Perimeter does not intend, nor does Perimeter undertake any obligation, to update or revise any forward-looking information contained in this news release to reflect subsequent information, events, or circumstances or otherwise, except if required by applicable laws.

SOURCE Perimeter Medical Imaging AI, Inc.
Dr. Muenzer to lead clinical care, research and medical education at Phoenix Children's

PHOENIX, Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Phoenix Children's, one of the nation's fastest-growing pediatric healthcare systems, today announced the promotion of Jared Muenzer, MD, MBA, to Chief Physician Executive. Muenzer also will continue to serve as Chief Operating Officer of Phoenix Children's Medical Group, a role he has held since 2016.

Jared T. Muenzer, MD, MBA, Chief Physician Executive at Phoenix Children's

As Chief Physician Executive, Muenzer will lead all clinical care, including the health system's growing behavioral health services, Phoenix Children's Care Network (PCCN), clinical research efforts at the Phoenix Children's Research Institute, medical education and the growing network of Phoenix Children's Pediatrics practices, which provide comprehensive preventative, primary care services at locations throughout Arizona.

"Since joining our health system in 2012, Dr. Muenzer has played a key role in transforming clinical care at Phoenix Children's," said Phoenix Children's President and CEO Robert L. Meyer. "Not only has he helped Phoenix Children's build top-ranked clinical programs across the health system, he has been instrumental in recruiting many of the world's best and brightest physicians and researchers to our community. His work has been pivotal in helping Phoenix Children's evolve into a leading health system."

Muenzer, in collaboration with Daniel Ostlie, MD, Surgeon-in-Chief and Chair of Surgery at Phoenix Children's, has added and expanded critical divisions at Phoenix Children's in recent years, including Nephrology, Infectious Diseases, Anesthesiology and Neonatology.

"Over the course of my career with Phoenix Children's, I've had the privilege of continuing to care for children and have seen first-hand the importance of high-quality, pediatric specific health services in the ER and across every specialty," said Muenzer. "It's such an honor to be part of Phoenix Children's growth and to work with a team whose unwavering commitment to healing children is making a difference for kids and families throughout Arizona and beyond."

As Chief Operating Officer of Phoenix Children's Medical Group (PCMG), Muenzer is accountable for the overall operations of more than 750 employed physicians and advanced practice providers across 34 clinical divisions at more than 40 sites of service in the state of Arizona. He also spearheads the development, communication and implementation of effective growth strategies and process improvement for the medical group and associated service lines.

Prior to his new position as Chief Physician Executive, Muenzer served as Physician-in-Chief of Phoenix Children's, where he provided administrative and clinical leadership to most non-surgical divisions and centers of excellence throughout the health system. A pediatric emergency medicine physician by training, he has also served as Associate Director of the Emergency Department, Program Director of the Pediatric Emergency Medicine Fellowship Program, Vice President of the Medical Staff, and Medical Director of Phoenix Children's Medical Group.

Muenzer remains a practicing physician at Phoenix Children's with regular shifts in the Emergency Department. His passion for this work has helped expand pediatric emergency care across the Valley with the July 2023 opening of Phoenix Children's Emergency Department  Avondale Campus and the forthcoming openings of Phoenix Children's Hospital  East Valley Campus and Phoenix Children's Hospital  Arrowhead Campus.

After earning his medical degree from the University of Pittsburgh's School of Medicine in 2001, Dr. Muenzer completed a residency in pediatrics and a fellowship in pediatric emergency medicine, both at St. Louis Children's Hospital. In 2014, he earned an MBA from the W.P. Carey School of Business at Arizona State University.

The health system will soon begin a national search to fill the role of Physician-in-Chief. For more information on rewarding career opportunities at Phoenix Children's, visit phoenixchildrens.org/careers.

About Phoenix Children's

Phoenix Children's is one of the nation's largest pediatric health systems. It comprises Phoenix Children's Hospital  Thomas Campus, Phoenix Children's Hospital  East Valley at Dignity Health Mercy Gilbert Medical Center, Phoenix Children's  Avondale Campus, five pediatric specialty and urgent care centers, 11 community pediatric practices, 20 outpatient clinics, two ambulatory surgery centers and seven community-service-related outpatient clinics throughout the state of Arizona. The system provides world-class inpatient, outpatient, trauma, emergency and urgent care and has been serving children and families for 40 years. Phoenix Children's Care Network includes more than 1,175 pediatric primary care providers and specialists who deliver care across more than 75 subspecialties. Alongside our colleagues, collaborators and communities, we're elevating pediatric care, education and innovation, so we can all grow healthier together. For more information, visit phoenixchildrens.org.

SOURCE Phoenix Children's
AGHDAM, Azerbaijan, August 29. The representatives of the Azerbaijan Red Crescent Society are holding talks with the Russian peacekeepers [temporarily deployed on the territories of Azerbaijan liberated from Armenian occupation in 2020] in regard with providing humanitarian aid to the residents of Armenian origin living in Karabakh, Trend reports.

A cargo with humanitarian aid (40 tons of flour products) was sent from Baku to Khankendi this morning.

The President of the Azerbaijan Red Crescent Society Novruz Aslan said that in the future, other necessary goods may be delivered to residents of Armenian origin living in Karabakh.

The remnants of the separatist regime in Karabakh have long been trying in various ways to convince the world community and international organizations that Azerbaijan, by establishing a border crossing point on the Lachin road, is allegedly keeping the Armenian residents of Karabakh under "blockade", has created a "humanitarian crisis situation" for them, and that the Armenians are allegedly facing "food shortages". Armenia, which continues to manipulate the existence of an alleged "tense humanitarian situation" and "blockade" in the region, is hindering the peace process instead of following through on the agreements reached to resolve issues related to the use of the Lachin road and other alternative roads to meet the needs of the Armenian residents of the Karabakh region.

The Azerbaijani side once again demonstrates a humanistic approach and sends humanitarian aid to citizens of Armenian origin living in Karabakh.
Following a pilot with Afrilabs, the AI-powered platform provides data to help address challenges in African economy, politics, digital transformation and more

ATLANTA, Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Plural , an artificial intelligence (AI)-powered policy tracking platform, today announced its expansion into Africa to enable access to public policy data across various African jurisdictions starting with Nigeria and South Africa. In June 2023, Plural began collaborating with a local network organization, Afrilabs , to help refine the platform and spur the region's economic growth, create political change, simplify increasing regulatory complexity, develop ongoing digital transformation and stimulate transparency and cross-border business expansion.

Plural's expansion into Africa comes at a crucial time, as Africa is currently implementing the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and being met with growing calls for policy transparency, harmonization and improvements to aid free trade and economic development. Plural enables its users to understand and participate in how policies are evolving with its public policy data, which is significant for making informed business decisions and fast-tracking economic growth. With its all-in-one AI-powered offering, Plural can also help field:

Political Evolution: As more countries move toward democratic governance, there's an increase in legislative activity. Plural, with its focus on monitoring, tracking and collaborating on public policy, provides an essential service in helping move politics forward.

As more countries move toward democratic governance, there's an increase in legislative activity. Plural, with its focus on monitoring, tracking and collaborating on public policy, provides an essential service in helping move politics forward. Increased Regulatory Complexity: As economies mature, regulatory frameworks tend to become more complex, and African businesses must keep abreast of changing legislation. Plural's ability to provide up-to-date, accurate legislative data across various jurisdictions can help companies navigate this.

As economies mature, regulatory frameworks tend to become more complex, and African businesses must keep abreast of changing legislation. Plural's ability to provide up-to-date, accurate legislative data across various jurisdictions can help companies navigate this. Digital Transformation: With increasing internet penetration and adoption of digital tools, there's a growing demand for software solutions that can provide crucial information in real-time and facilitate remote collaboration, which is the backbone of Plural.

With increasing internet penetration and adoption of digital tools, there's a growing demand for software solutions that can provide crucial information in real-time and facilitate remote collaboration, which is the backbone of Plural. Cross-Border Business Expansion: As African businesses grow and expand into other markets, they need to understand and comply with different countries' policy environments. Plural's broad jurisdictional scope can provide this much-needed multi-country perspective.

"In many African nations, access to policy data isn't as seamless as in the U.S. or EU. Therefore, as these dynamic economies navigate key legislative transitions, the demand for current and trustworthy information becomes paramount for policy advocates, businesses, nonprofits and partners of government," commented Obinna Osisiogu, Vice President of Plural Africa. "Plural's entry into the African market is a step towards bringing visibility into the policy process and improving the means to participate in democracy on the continent."

Plural initiated a controlled release of its product in Africa in June 2023, working with a select group of exclusive partners to help identify the unique needs in the area and modify its offering to ensure it effectively tackles what's most important, first. Plural's founders, Yemi Adewunmi, Damola Ogundipe and Shawntera Hardy wanted to execute their company's offering in Africa knowing the lack of digital resources. Nigeria and South Africa are the first countries to experience Plural and the company plans to expand to other African regions beginning September 2023.

"Ever since we identified Plural's synergies with our Policy Pathways, we have been excited to partner with its launch in Africa," remarked Jennifer Okeke-Ojiudu, Afrilabs' Senior Ecosystem Engagements Manager. "Recently, in line with our inclusion efforts, we introduced the RevUp Women initiative to champion women-led, early-stage African enterprises. Beyond backing these businesses, we understand the essential policy shifts needed to tackle institutional barriers facing women-led ventures. We're proud to spearhead this policy advocacy with Plural's tools."

The expansion is followed by Plural's Freemium announcement , a free offering of its legislative solution that allows policy professionals, researchers, students and concerned constituents to leverage its capabilities without the factor of cost. Today, Plural has over 34,000 users and works with over one hundred organizations including Common Cause, Equal Justice USA and The Nature Conservancy.

To learn more about Plural, please visit https://www.pluralpolicy.com/ .

About Plural:

Plural is a policy-tracking platform that uses artificial intelligence to make policy creation more transparent, responsive and inclusive. Its platform enables organizations to easily sift through the overwhelming amount of updates that happen during legislative sessions, making research smarter, faster and less expensive. To date, Plural has raised $12.3 million from investors such as S3 Ventures, Menlo Ventures, Bread & Butter Ventures, Debut Capital and Colin Kaepernick. In partnership with companies and organizations like Common Cause, Equal Justice USA and The Nature Conservancy, Plural is democratizing democracy for all.

Media Contact:

Carrie Fisher

[email protected]

SOURCE Plural
MELBOURNE, Fla., Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Amit Zeisel, PhD and Ido Solt, MD and their research team at the Technion  Israel Institute of Technology and Rambam Hospital, together with Prof. Simcha Yagel, MD of Hadassa Hospital, have published new research that provides systematic molecular evidence for two disease pathways for preeclampsia, a life-threatening hypertensive disorder of pregnancy. The research study, which was funded by the Preeclampsia Foundation's Peter J. Pappas Research grant, used a single-cell transcriptomic survey on cases of early- and late-onset preeclampsia to understand how placental cells were specifically affected by the two forms of the disease.

Techion research team. Medical researchers.

For this study, single-cell transcriptomic research measured tens of thousands of placental cells, one cell at a time, using single-cell RNA sequencing. By studying the differences between preeclamptic placentas and non-affected placentas, the researchers hoped to better understand the basic, initial mechanisms of the disease.

"Using this state-of-the-art technique, we found that many genes were massively dysregulated in placentas of early-onset preeclampsia, but that was not the case in late-onset patients," explained Dr. Zeisel. "This is important because it means there is a real molecular basis for two forms of preeclampsia, and that treatments will need to be tailored to these distinct subtypes."

Single-cell RNA-sequencing allows scientists to see exactly where genetic changes take place on the level of individual cells, and in this case, all the cell types of the placenta. This analysis allows researchers to finally understand the exact source of problematic changes in the placenta related to preeclampsia, even if some had been described before.

"For example, the role of inflammation has been well described in preeclampsia research, but not fully understood," said Zeisel. "Our study describes the way that specific populations of immune cells from both mother and fetus participate in these inflammatory processes."

Preeclampsia affects 5-8% of all pregnancies worldwide and is a leading cause of premature birth, as well as maternal and infant illness and death. Preeclampsia can occur as early as 20 weeks gestation and up to six weeks postpartum; other research studies have suggested that there may be differences between the way that patients develop early-onset versus late-onset variations of the disease. Early-onset preeclampsia, which is relatively rare, is high blood pressure during pregnancy with organ dysfunction that requires delivery prior to 34 weeks' gestation. Zeisel, Solt, and their colleagues have made their data available to other preeclampsia researchers via their lab website.

"Early-onset preeclampsia is of particular interest to researchers because the outcomes of premature birth are often so severe," said Preeclampsia Foundation CEO Eleni Z. Tsigas. "By funding this particular research study, we can help better understand what makes these two presentations of the disease different to further improved preventions and treatments."

Named for the infant son of preeclampsia survivor Lauren Pappas and her husband Clement, the Peter J. Pappas grant funding program seeks to award multiple grants each year. The ultimate goal of the program is to drive research that will eliminate the delivery of pre-term babies as an intervention for severe preeclampsia, HELLP syndrome, and related hypertensive disorders of pregnancy.

"We are looking forward to the continued growth of research stemming from this important finding related to preeclampsia," said Clement Pappas.

For more information, please visit www.preeclampsia.org/research-funding.

About the Preeclampsia Foundation

The Preeclampsia Foundation is a U.S.-based 501(c)(3) non-profit organization established in 2000 to improve the outcomes of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy by educating, supporting, and engaging the community, improving healthcare practices, and finding a cure. We envision a world where preeclampsia and related hypertensive disorders of pregnancy no longer threaten the lives of mothers and babies. For more information, visit www.preeclampsia.org .

About the Peter Joseph Pappas Research Grant Program

Clement and Lauren Pappas of Philadelphia, PA, lost their firstborn child, Peter Joseph, after HELLP syndrome necessitated his early delivery. Their son, born at 29 weeks gestation, spent a week in the neonatal intensive care unit before dying from a central line infection. The Pappas family, along with friends and family, have established this special fund with the Preeclampsia Foundation to advance research, with the overarching goal of eliminating pre-term births due to preeclampsia by 2050.

Contact: Laney Poye

Director of Communications and Engagement

321.421.6957

[email protected]

SOURCE Preeclampsia Foundation
Preferred Suites Offers an Innovative Approach to Office Leasing for Corporate Users

WASHINGTON, Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Preferred Office Network, the largest alliance of coworking centers in North America and beyond, is excited to announce the launch of Preferred Suites, a new creative solution designed to satisfy the growing demand of corporate clients seeking larger footprints of space. Preferred Suites provide clients with the same flexibility and speed of transaction they have come to enjoy through Preferred's proprietary network of member centers.

Preferred Suites is an exclusive new offering from Preferred Office Network that jettisons the extensive lease agreements, legal bills, and restrictive terms traditionally associated with direct lease space by allowing clients to lease standalone suites of their choosing through Preferred's existing, pre-negotiated Client Agreement. This arrangement made possible only by the Preferred coworking partner that already operates elsewhere in the same building. Partnering with the existing member center offers organizations the same all-inclusive services, amenities, and hospitality enjoyed by coworking clients, but in a standalone suite of their own.

Preferred's onsite member can provide flexible, mission-critical support services directly to the client's suite on an as-needed basis. This could include collaborative workspaces, in-person and virtual IT support, high-speed internet, on-demand meeting rooms, custom furnishings, and other elements of space or service customized to the client's need with term commitments starting at just six months for Preferred Office Network clients.

With Preferred Suites, Preferred Office Network is now bridging the gap between traditional office real estate and flexible workspaces by leveraging its exclusive coworking network to extend its flexible occupancy model in a product that delivers wins for landlords and tenants alike.

Clients now have the ability to choose between a workspace within a coworking center or choosing a space of their own within a building, both on the same agreement. Both options are fully serviced and executed through a simple service agreement already in place for Preferred clients. Gone will be the days of lengthy leases that can remove barriers to transacting business, as well as the extensive legal fees and time it takes to get a deal done. Simplicity has always been a key differentiator for Preferred; this new offering takes that brand promise to the next level of its evolution.

"Our proprietary network of member coworking centers allows us to offer this innovative new product to clients looking to transact with the ease and flexibility that they have always enjoyed at Preferred Office Network, but now in space of their own," said Austin Flajser, President & CEO of The Carr Companies, Preferred Office Network's parent company. "We are removing outdated barriers to workspace leasing that no longer fit the speed and adaptability demanded by today's workforce and empowering our clients and members and landlords with a solution unique to the marketplace."

"Preferred Office Network was founded to support enterprise clients with accommodating workplaces that help power their organizations as well as flexible lease terms all through one master contract," said Preferred Office Network Vice President Michele Penaranda. "We are simply expanding upon this promise and offering organizations an easy-to-implement workplace solution that meets the needs of today's employers and employees in a changing world of work."

Preferred is currently offering its Preferred Suites option in select locations in the Washington, D.C. and Northern Virginia area. Just like the Willard Center in Washington, D.C., each of these select locations offer premium amenities such as outdoor meeting spaces, on-site EV chargers, and valet parking. Additionally, new markets that feature Preferred Suites are being added monthly to meet growing demand in cities around the world.

ABOUT PREFERRED OFFICE NETWORK

Founded from humble beginnings in 2010, Preferred Office Network provides enterprise clients with the most flexible terms in the workspace industry. As today's real estate landscape continues to evolve, Preferred Office Network's flexibility and mobility within various service offerings remain constant. Made up of more than 230 independent business center operators, the company's global coworking network is the largest of its kind. Preferred Office Network was formed to offer corporate users an alternative to large, commercialized coworking spaces. Preferred Office Network provides account management services for their clients, handling all paperwork, billing, and portfolio oversight on behalf of its member operators. For more information, visit preferredofficenetwork.com.

SOURCE Preferred Office Network
SAN FRANCISCO, Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Prologis, Inc. (NYSE: PLD), the global leader in logistics real estate, today announced it has cleared all redemption requests as of June 30, 2023 for its two major strategic capital funds, Prologis European Logistics Fund (PELF) and Prologis U.S. Logistics Fund (USLF).

The company also announced an additional commitment of $500 million to the funds, 250 million in PELF and $250 million in USLF. This new infusion of capital will allow the funds to further invest in high-quality industrial assets, creating value for investors and strengthening Prologis' position as the global leader in its sector.

"Industrial real estate continues to be an attractive place for capital investment, especially USLF and PELF's well-located and high-quality portfolios," said Karsten Kallevig, managing director, Global Strategic Capital at Prologis. "These vehicles have proven to have exceptional performance across market cycles. Now that external valuations have caught up with the market, we view this as a good time to invest."

PELF and USLF operate in high-growth markets worldwide, with properties in major centers of commerce. PELF (with a portfolio that spans over 161MSF*) and USLF (with a portfolio that spans over 123MSF*) are focused on delivering industry-leading, risk-adjusted returns with a superior investor experience.

*At June 30, 2023

ABOUT PROLOGIS

Prologis, Inc. is the global leader in logistics real estate with a focus on high-barrier, high-growth markets. At June 30, 2023, the company owned or had investments in, on a wholly owned basis or through co-investment ventures, properties and development projects expected to total approximately 1.2 billion square feet (114 million square meters) in 19 countries. Prologis leases modern logistics facilities to a diverse base of approximately 6,700 customers principally across two major categories: business-to-business and retail/online fulfillment.

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

The statements in this document that are not historical facts are forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. These forward-looking statements are based on current expectations, estimates and projections about the industry and markets in which we operate as well as management's beliefs and assumptions. Such statements involve uncertainties that could significantly impact our financial results. Words such as "expects" "anticipates," "intends," "plans," "believes," "seeks," and "estimates" including variations of such words and similar expressions are intended to identify such forward-looking statements, which generally are not historical in nature. All statements that address operating performance, events or developments that we expect or anticipate will occur in the futureincluding statements relating to rent and occupancy growth, acquisition and development activity, contribution and disposition activity, general conditions in the geographic areas where we operate, our debt, capital structure and financial position, our ability to earn revenues from co-investment ventures, form new co-investment ventures and the availability of capital in existing or new co-investment venturesare forward-looking statements. These statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve certain risks, uncertainties and assumptions that are difficult to predict. Although we believe the expectations reflected in any forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, we can give no assurance that our expectations will be attained and, therefore, actual outcomes and results may differ materially from what is expressed or forecasted in such forward-looking statements. Some of the factors that may affect outcomes and results include, but are not limited to: (i) international, national, regional and local economic and political climates and conditions; (ii) changes in global financial markets, interest rates and foreign currency exchange rates; (iii) increased or unanticipated competition for our properties; (iv) risks associated with acquisitions, dispositions and development of properties, including the integration of the operations of significant real estate portfolios; (v) maintenance of Real Estate Investment Trust status, tax structuring and changes in income tax laws and rates; (vi) availability of financing and capital, the levels of debt that we maintain and our credit ratings; (vii) risks related to our investments in our co-investment ventures, including our ability to establish new co-investment ventures; (viii) risks of doing business internationally, including currency risks; (ix) environmental uncertainties, including risks of natural disasters; (x) risks related to global pandemics; and (xi) those additional factors discussed in reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission by us under the heading "Risk Factors." We undertake no duty to update any forward-looking statements appearing in this document except as may be required by law.

SOURCE Prologis, Inc.
COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo., Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Quantum Metric , the customer-driven digital analytics platform, today is proud to announce that it has received the 2023 Google Cloud Technology Partner of the Year Award for Google Marketplace - Collaboration. Quantum Metric was recognized for their achievements in the Google Cloud ecosystem, helping joint customers optimize their digital experiences in ways that both serve the needs of customers and drive business growth.

"Google Cloud's partner awards recognize the significant impact and customer success that our partners have driven over the past year," said Kevin Ichhpurani, Corporate Vice President, Global Ecosystem and Channels at Google Cloud. "We're delighted to recognize Quantum Metric as a 2023 Google Cloud Partner Award winner, and look forward to a continued strong partnership in support of our mutual customers."

The Google Cloud Partner of the Year award recognizes organizations annually for their innovative thinking, outstanding customer service, and best-in-class use of Google Cloud products and services. Quantum Metric's recognition as Google Cloud Technology Partner of the Year for Google Marketplace - Collaboration, reflects the rapidly expanding partnership with Google Cloud that has supported continued expansion across key regions including the U.S. and UK, and greater EMEA, and grown Quantum Metric's customer base by 41%. At the heart of Quantum Metric's solution is BigQuery, Google Cloud's fully managed, petabyte-scale analytics data warehouse with 99.99% availability that enables businesses to analyze vast amounts of data in real-time to make data-driven decisions and have actionable insights to drive better outcomes. Powered by BigQuery, the Quantum Metric platform empowers digital leaders to quickly monitor, diagnose and optimize their digital experiences, while continuing to push the limits of innovation and react to changes in industry demands.

"Gaps in expertise, unmanageable amounts of data and outside escalations can distract digital leaders from efficiently understanding what their customer needs today or might expect tomorrow," said Mario Ciabarra, CEO of Quantum Metric. "By partnering with Google Cloud we've continued to exceed the industry standard for fast and simple digital analytics. We are honored to be recognized as the Google Cloud Technology Partner of the Year for Google Marketplace - Collaboration and are continually grateful for the relationship we've built with Google Cloud."

Collaboration and engagement with the Google Cloud team enabled Quantum Metric customers to democratize access to customer behavior insights through new offerings including Atlas, a collection of guides that outline critical questions enterprises need to ask to understand how to optimize their micro-journeys and build the best digital experiences. This has resulted in marked improvements for Quantum Metric customers such as:

15% increase in omnichannel sales through tailored online and in-store experiences

Improved device-specific experiences that supported a 20% increase in conversions online and a 21% reduction in potentially lost engagement on mobile

Reduced friction across the digital customer journey for better shopping experiences

Quantum Metric has also deepened its partnership with Google Cloud in the last year, expanding network relationships, co-supporting events and tradeshows, including an upcoming session at the World Aviation Festival, as well as co-creating content that helps educate the market on major shifts in digital experience. These efforts have not only driven more awareness to the partnership, but embolden teams to more effectively serve the needs of today's digital organizations.

For more information on Quantum Metric's partnership with Google Cloud visit: quantummetric.com/partners/google-cloud

About Quantum Metric

Quantum Metric is the customer-centered digital analytics platform for today's leading organizations. Providing a simplified approach to monitor, diagnose and optimize the digital journeys that matter most, the Quantum Metric platform offers in-depth customer understanding, quantified and tied to core business objectives. Today, Quantum Metric captures insights from 40% of the world's internet users, supporting global brands across every industry to get to the heart of their customer, with greater speed and efficiency. For more information about Quantum Metric, visit www.quantummetric.com .

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1559642/Quantum_Metric_Logo.jpg

SOURCE Quantum Metric
BREA, Calif., Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Southern California based Service Champions, a premier residential home services company with a growing national portfolio of 19 brands, today announced its updated identity as Champions Group Holdings. The rebranding marks a desire by the organization to communicate its mission more clearly within the industry and with consumers.

"Our name Service Champions Group started with the original brand, Service Champions. The new identity focuses on the brand's heritage and at the same time embodies a personality that reflects the business as it currently stands. We wanted a name and a logo that could live up to our ambition. We are moving forward with an evolving, rapidly growing business as we continue to illustrate the vast, impactful and invaluable benefits that Champions Group has provided to millions of customers and our family of brands since its inception in 2000. The name change purposefully stays connected to the history the business has already established," said Champions Group CEO, Frank DiMarco.

With 120 combined years of leadership experience, generations in the business and decades of experience across all trades, the portfolio has over 2400 employees who provide exemplary service to customers throughout the United States. Champions Group operates across Arizona, California, Colorado, Nevada, Ohio, Texas, and Washington, constantly collaborating to help each of the brands in their family reach the next level.

Since its beginning, the Champions Group business model emphasizes the investment in talent, technology and resources to enhance operations for all partners. The company remains laser focused on the customer experience providing teams of world-class technology experts and customer-centric technicians who are able to maximize value to customers through excellence in operations.

The company is actively expanding, seeking the partnership of exceptional businesses with likeminded business practices in key regions throughout the United States. Each acquisition is thoughtfully planned with a shared commitment to a tradition of service and excellence. Champions Group team members continue to seek companies interested in growth, unlocking value, providing employee development and advancement and delivering best-in-service levels to customers nationwide. Champions Group is a portfolio company of Odyssey Investment Partners.

About Champions Group

Based in Orange County, CA, Champions Group is a leading provider of essential home services specializing in heating, air conditioning, plumbing and electrical services. With the mission to maintain long term relationships with its customers, Champions Group is dedicated to delivering timely, high-quality services across a comprehensive suite of HVAC, electrical and plumbing products. Champions Group goes to market with several trade names including Adeedo!, ASI, Bell Brothers, Fetch-A-Tech, HELP, Hobaica, Howard Air, Jet, JW Plumbing Heating and Air, M and M Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical, Moore Home Services, ProSkill Services, Scottsdale Air, Seatown Services, Service Champions, Service Wizard, Sierra Air, Swan Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning and Timo's Air Conditioning & Heating. For more information, please visit https://ChampionsGH.com.

About Odyssey Investment Partners

Odyssey Investment Partners, with offices in New York and Los Angeles, is a leading private equity investment firm with more than a 25-year history of partnering with skilled managers to transform middle-market companies into more efficient and diversified businesses with strong growth profiles. Odyssey makes majority-controlled investments in industries with a long-term positive outlook and favorable secular trends. For further information about Odyssey, please visit www.odysseyinvestment.com .

Media Contact:

Dana Rosenberg

E: [email protected]

P: 310.702.1539

SOURCE Champions Group Holdings
PALM BAY, Fla., Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Reticulate Micro, Inc. ("Reticulate Micro" or the "Company"), whose mission is to create and curate communications technology and systems management platforms based on proprietary VAST technology that addresses the issues of limited data transports, deep fakes, and network fragility, announced today that it has engaged investor relations specialists MZ Group ("MZ") to lead their comprehensive strategic investor relations and financial communications program.

Brian Prenoveau, CFA, Managing Director at MZ North America, will assist Reticulate Micro in all facets of corporate and financial communications. MZ has developed a distinguished reputation as a premier resource for institutional investors, brokers, analysts, and private investors.

MZ to lead Reticulate's comprehensive strategic investor relations and financial communications program Post this

About MZ Group

MZ North America is the US division of MZ Group, a global leader in investor relations and corporate communications. MZ North America was founded in 1996 and provides full scale Investor Relations to both private and public companies across all industries. Supported by its exclusive onestopshop approach, MZ works with top management to support their clients' business strategy in six integrated product and service categories: 1) IR Consulting & Outreach  full service investor relations and roadshow services; 2) ESG iQ & Advisory  reporting technology platform and audit and reporting guidance; 3) SPAC Alpha IR+ & IPO Advisory  providing critical and timely guidance through business combinations and IPOs; 4) Financial & Social Media  lead generation and social media relations; 5) Market Intelligence  real time ownership monitoring; and 6) Technology Solutions  webhosting, webcasting, conference calls, distribution services and board portals. MZ North America has a global footprint with offices located in New York, Chicago, San Diego, Aliso Viejo, Austin, Minneapolis, Taipei and Sao Paulo.

About Reticulate Micro, Inc.

Reticulate Micro, Inc. seeks to be a market-leading provider of mission-essential, highly efficient, and ultra-secure video compression and analytics technologies. Our mission is to create and curate communications technology and systems management platforms based on our proprietary VAST technology that addresses the issues of limited data transports, deep fakes, and network fragility. Our hardware and software solutions are cloud-connected, coupling our proprietary video encoding algorithms with edge computational density and transport ubiquity, delivering superior video clarity and low latency to support decision-making. Our unique blend of algorithmic compression, data security, and virtualized infrastructure integration delivers immutable, verifiable, and trustworthy video data for military and first responder decision-makers, judicial systems, enterprise infrastructure monitoring and control, and general security solutions.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements:

This press release contains forward-looking statements that are subject to various risks and uncertainties. In addition, our representatives or we may make forward-looking statements orally or in writing from time to time. We base these forward-looking statements on our expectations and projections about future events, which we derive from the available information. Such forward-looking statements relate to future events or our future performance, including our financial performance and projections, revenue and earnings growth, and business prospects and opportunities. You can identify forward-looking statements by those that are not historical facts, particularly those that use terminology such as "intends," "may," "should," "expects," "anticipates," "contemplates," "estimates," "believes," "plans," "projected," "predicts," "potential," or "hopes" or the negative of these or similar terms. In evaluating these forward-looking statements, you should consider various factors, including our ability to change the direction of the Company, our ability to keep pace with new technology and evolving market needs, and the competitive environment of our business. These and other factors may cause our results to differ materially from any forward-looking statement. Forward-looking statements are only predictions. The forward-looking statements discussed in this press release, and other statements made from time to time by our representatives, may not occur, and actual events and results may differ materially and are subject to risks, uncertainties, and assumptions about us. The forward-looking statements contained in this press release are made as of the date of this press release, and the Company does not undertake any responsibility to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement in this release, except in accordance with applicable law.

Contact:

Brian M. Prenoveau, CFA, Managing Director

MZ Group  MZ North America

[email protected]

561-489-5315

Michael Chermak, Executive Chairman

Reticulate Micro, Inc.

[email protected]

866-70-MICRO

SOURCE Reticulate Micro, Inc.
NEW YORK, Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Rho, the all-in-one financial platform organizations can bank on, today announced it has completed a transaction to have Capital, the founder-friendly fundraising and banking platform, join Rho. Capital's founders and key team members will leverage their expertise in startups and founder engagement to reinforce Rho's support for tech startups.

With this transaction, Capital's startup customers will also be offered access to Rho's all-in-one finance platform's capabilities, including:

'One-Click AP', designed to process, interpret, check, validate, and schedule thousands of payables using any payment method and automate the actions of approvals, compliance, and reconciliation across your organization at scale in one click.

Treasury Management Account, which provides clients with access to up to $75M in FDIC deposit insurance per entity.

in FDIC deposit insurance per entity. Rho Prime Treasury, which helps businesses with more than $1M in liquid assets invest directly in short-dated government securities held in their name.

"We're thrilled to welcome the Capital team to Rho," said Everett Cook, CEO & Co-founder of Rho. "We believe their expertise will greatly complement our existing offerings, and we look forward to working together to provide even better financial solutions to our customer base."

Capital, which was founded by Jordi Hays and Sarah Chase in March 2021, has leveraged consumer marketing tactics to build a viral fintech brand with a cult-like following of founders. Propelled by the platform's flagship fundraising tool and initiatives like New York Tech Week, Capital established a loyal following of swiftly-growing startups.

"As founders ourselves, we set out to build a banking platform that leverages our acute understanding of founders' needs," said Jordi Hays, co-founder and CEO of Capital. "We're excited to join Rho and help them continue to grow and evolve their business, and we look forward to working together to continue building modern financial solutions for founders.

About Rho

Rho is the all-in-one financial platform organizations can bank on. With corporate cards, expense management, AP, banking, and treasury in one integrated platform, Rho equips lean finance teams and leaders with the technology they need to drive greater efficiency and control over how money moves in and out of their organizations.

Banking services provided and cards issued by Webster Bank, N.A., Member FDIC. All Rights reserved.  2019-2023 Under Technologies, Inc. DBA Rho Technologies. Rho is a trademark of Under Technologies, Inc. Rho is not a bank. Rho partners with FDIC-insured banks to offer banking products and services.

Investment management and advisory services provided by RBB Treasury LLC, an SEC-registered investment adviser. RBB Treasury LLC facilitates investments in securities: investments are not deposits and are not FDIC Insured  Investments are not guaranteed, and may lose value. Investment products involve risk and past performance does not guarantee future results.

CONTACT: Justin Wolz, [email protected]

SOURCE Rho
NEW YORK, Aug. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ --

WHY: Rosen Law Firm, a global investor rights law firm, announces an investigation of potential securities claims on behalf of shareholders of Daqo New Energy Corp. (NYSE: DQ) resulting from allegations that Daqo New Energy may have issued materially misleading business information to the investing public.

SO WHAT: If you purchased Daqo New Energy 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=18102 or call Phillip Kim, Esq. toll-free at 866-767-3653 or email [email protected] or [email protected] for information on the class action.

WHAT IS THIS ABOUT: On August 3, 2023, Daqo New Energy announced Chairman and Founder, Mr. Guangfu Xu, will step down from his position as Chairman of the Board of Directors (the "Board"), effective immediately, but will remain as a director on the Board. The Company also announced Mr. Longgen Zhang will step down as Chief Executive Officer and a director of the Company with immediate effect due to personal reasons.

On this news, the price of Daqo New Energy stock fell $1.71, or 4.74%, to close at $34.34 on August 3, 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 firm's 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

[email protected]

[email protected]

[email protected]

www.rosenlegal.com

SOURCE Rosen Law Firm, P.A.
AGHDAM, Azerbaijan, August 29.

We informed the commander of the Russian peacemakers about the humanitarian cargo, the Secretary General of the Azerbaijan Red Crescent Society, Jeyhun Mirzoev said, Trend reports.

"The commander of the Russian peacemakers reported this to his management, and we are now waiting for a response," Mirzoyev said.

A convoy of humanitarian aid sent by the Azerbaijan Red Crescent Society to people of Armenian origin living in Karabakh has reached the Aghdam-Khankendi road. Currently, representatives of the Azerbaijan Red Crescent Society are negotiating with Russian peacemakers regarding the humanitarian cargo.

The President of the Azerbaijan Red Crescent Society, Novruz Aslan said that in the future, other necessary goods may be delivered to residents of Armenian origin living in Karabakh.

The remnants of the separatist regime in Karabakh have long been trying in various ways to convince the world community and international organizations that Azerbaijan, by establishing a border crossing point on the Lachin road, is allegedly keeping the Armenian residents of Karabakh under "blockade", has created a "humanitarian crisis situation" for them, and that the Armenians are allegedly facing "food shortages". Armenia, which continues to manipulate the existence of an alleged "tense humanitarian situation" and "blockade" in the region, is hindering the peace process instead of following through on the agreements reached to resolve issues related to the use of the Lachin road and other alternative roads to meet the needs of the Armenian residents of the Karabakh region.

The Azerbaijani side once again demonstrates a humanistic approach and sends humanitarian aid to citizens of Armenian origin living in Karabakh.
New industry and sustainability solutions will generate insights that help transform business decision-making

WALLDORF, Germany and SUNNYVALE, Calif., Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Today at Google Cloud Next, SAP SE (NYSE: SAP) and Google Cloud announced an expanded partnership to help enterprises harness the power of data and generative AI. The companies will combine their integrated open data cloud using SAP Datasphere with Vertex AI to launch new generative AI-powered industry solutions, starting with automotive, and introduce new capabilities to help customers improve sustainability performance.

The new solutions build on a long-term, strategic partnership between SAP and Google Cloud to help enterprise customers accelerate their digital transformations and optimize value from business-critical data. Google Cloud is a strategic partner for RISE with SAP and to-date counts many leading enterprise companies as joint customers. By integrating generative AI into SAP and Google Cloud's open data cloud, customers can deploy powerful new solutions that use information from SAP Datasphere and from virtually any other data source to significantly improve business insights, analysis, and decision-making.

The open data cloud integrations between SAP and Google Cloud will provide a rich foundation for AI development that will help deliver new value for joint customers, beginning with those in the automotive and sustainability spaces:

Enhancing connectivity and customer experiences within the automotive industry: SAP and Google Cloud will launch new solutions that use Google Cloud's generative AI models via Vertex AI and data from Catena-X , the open data ecosystem supported by SAP for the automotive industry. With Catena-X, automotive companies can securely exchange data about their entire value chains to increase operational performance, enhance customer experiences, and accelerate innovation. With this new solution, automotive customers can combine data sets from Catena-X with SAP software data to build and train generative AI models that optimize their work with automobile manufacturers, suppliers, and end-customers. For example, by enabling more effective data sharing, generative AI can help identify and mitigate potential vehicle problems before they cause recalls, improve safety through increased knowledge about hazardous road and traffic conditions, and increase product quality by predicting defects better.

SAP and Google Cloud will launch new solutions that use Google Cloud's generative AI models via Vertex AI and data from , the open data ecosystem supported by SAP for the automotive industry. With Catena-X, automotive companies can securely exchange data about their entire value chains to increase operational performance, enhance customer experiences, and accelerate innovation. With this new solution, automotive customers can combine data sets from Catena-X with SAP software data to build and train generative AI models that optimize their work with automobile manufacturers, suppliers, and end-customers. For example, by enabling more effective data sharing, generative AI can help identify and mitigate potential vehicle problems before they cause recalls, improve safety through increased knowledge about hazardous road and traffic conditions, and increase product quality by predicting defects better. Increasing enterprise sustainability: SAP and Google Cloud customers can utilize Vertex AI together with SAP Datasphere to create generative AI solutions that accelerate companies' sustainability programs. The new AI-powered functionality available soon to SAP customers on Google Cloud will help organizations combine mission-critical business data in SAP Datasphere and the SAP Sustainability Control Tower solution with third-party ESG data sets and Google Cloud's powerful generative AI models. As a result, businesses will be able to create bespoke sustainability reports, automate AI-powered sustainability alerts throughout the supply chain, and enhance decision-making with deeper analyses on environmental impact and financial benefits, among other things.

"Our partnership with Google Cloud is quickly evolving to incorporate generative AI. For this purpose, we utilize our expansive joint data cloud to transform business decision-making and improve productivity, leveraging the potential of SAP Datasphere built on SAP Business Technology Platform," said Juergen Mueller, Chief Technology Officer and member of the Executive Board of SAP SE. "With SAP Business AI, we build systems of intelligence with three core principles: they are relevant, reliable, and responsible. Customers will not only benefit from AI already embedded across our business solutions, but also from a unified, open data foundation and additional AI capabilities from Google Cloud."

"Google Cloud and SAP will provide joint customers with generative AI capabilities that have a tangible impact on day-to-day work and create real-world value for their businesses," said Kevin Ichhpurani, Corporate Vice President of Global Partner Ecosystem & Channels, Google Cloud. "Through our open data and AI partnership with SAP, we will apply generative AI to enable customers to get significantly more value from information stored on SAP systems and third-party datasets, helping companies operate more safely and enterprises run more sustainably."

As part of this expanded partnership, which includes a new and growing portfolio of generative AI solutions, SAP and Google Cloud aim to create responsible AI experiences by delivering generative AI solutions for business with the highest levels of concern for security, privacy, compliance, and ethics. For years, customers have trusted SAP and Google Cloud to build and run powerful and trustworthy solutions, including AI that touches their most vital data and systems. To learn more about the Google Cloud and SAP partnership, attend one of the many customer sessions at Google Next .

About Google Cloud

Google Cloud accelerates every organization's ability to digitally transform its business and industry. We deliver enterprise-grade solutions that leverage Google's cutting-edge technology, and tools that help developers build more sustainably. Customers in more than 200 countries and territories turn to Google Cloud as their trusted partner to enable growth and solve their most critical business problems.

About SAP

SAP's strategy is to help every business run as an intelligent, sustainable enterprise. As a market leader in enterprise application software, we help companies of all sizes and in all industries run at their best: SAP customers generate 87% of total global commerce. Our machine learning, Internet of Things (IoT), and advanced analytics technologies help turn customers' businesses into intelligent enterprises. SAP helps give people and organizations deep business insight and fosters collaboration that helps them stay ahead of their competition. We simplify technology for companies so they can consume our software the way they want  without disruption. Our end-to-end suite of applications and services enables business and public customers across 25 industries globally to operate profitably, adapt continuously, and make a difference. With a global network of customers, partners, employees, and thought leaders, SAP helps the world run better and improve people's lives. For more information, visit www.sap.com.

SAP and other SAP products and services mentioned herein as well as their respective logos are trademarks or registered trademarks of SAP SE in Germany and other countries. Please see https://www.sap.com/copyright for additional trademark information and notices.

SOURCE Google Cloud
WALLDORF, Germany, Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- SAP SE (NYSE: SAP) today announced that Gina Vargiu-Breuer (48) has been appointed to the Executive Board of SAP as Chief People Officer and labor director, effective from February 1, 2024. She will succeed Sabine Bendiek, who will be leaving the company by her own request on December 31, 2023.

In her new role, Vargiu-Breuer will lead the HR organization and continue to drive the transformation of SAP's HR strategy. This includes creating an even more powerful growth and learning environment at SAP that enables inclusion, diversity and agility.

Vargiu-Breuer joins from Siemens Energy, where she has been serving as the Global Head of HR since the separation from Siemens in late 2019. In this role, she has played a significant part in driving and overseeing a substantial portion of the company's change efforts in alignment with the corporate human resources strategy. In helping guide Siemens Energy's journey towards becoming an independent company, she particularly focused on a well-orchestrated transformation that actively involved leaders and the workforce as co-creators.

"With Gina Vargiu-Breuer, we have found an exceptional leader who can continue to drive our ongoing transformation, particularly in the realm of human resources, and make crucial contributions," said Professor Hasso Plattner, Chairman of the Supervisory Board of SAP SE. "On behalf of the Supervisory Board, I warmly welcome Gina and wish her a successful start at SAP. Our heartfelt thanks go to Sabine Bendiek, who, during her tenure, set crucial foundations for a successful and sustainable transformation of the company at both the personnel and operational levels."

Prior to her time at Siemens Energy, Vargiu-Breuer worked at Siemens, where she held various operational and strategic HR roles, including positions in Asia, the United States and the United Arab Emirates. She holds a degree in Business Psychology from the Catholic University of Eichstatt-Ingolstadt. Vargiu-Breuer has been appointed to the Executive Board for a term of three years and will be based at the SAP headquarters in Walldorf, Germany.

"Companies like SAP are at the center of the global economy's digital transformation. In this context, personnel and corporate strategies must go hand in hand to ensure business success today and in the future. Long-term personnel management, an attractive working environment and highly motivated employees are crucial factors," said Vargiu-Breuer. "I sincerely thank the Supervisory Board for entrusting me with the heart of SAP's ongoing change, the personnel strategy."

The role of Chief Operating Officer  previously also under Sabine Bendiek's responsibility  will be assumed by Chief Strategy Officer Sebastian Steinhaeuser starting January 1, 2024. He will continue to report to CEO Christian Klein.

Visit the SAP News Center. Follow SAP on Twitter at @SAPNews.

About SAP

SAP's strategy is to help every business run as an intelligent, sustainable enterprise. As a market leader in enterprise application software, we help companies of all sizes and in all industries run at their best: SAP customers generate 87% of total global commerce. Our machine learning, Internet of Things (IoT), and advanced analytics technologies help turn customers' businesses into intelligent enterprises. SAP helps give people and organizations deep business insight and fosters collaboration that helps them stay ahead of their competition. We simplify technology for companies so they can consume our software the way they want  without disruption. Our end-to-end suite of applications and services enables business and public customers across 26 industries globally to operate profitably, adapt continuously, and make a difference. With a global network of customers, partners, employees, and thought leaders, SAP helps the world run better and improve people's lives. For more information, visit www.sap.com.

This document contains forward-looking statements, which are predictions, projections, or other statements about future events. These statements are based on current expectations, forecasts, and assumptions that are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results and outcomes to materially differ. Additional information regarding these risks and uncertainties may be found in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including but not limited to the risk factors section of SAP's 2022 Annual Report on Form 20-F.

 2023 SAP SE. All rights reserved.

SAP and other SAP products and services mentioned herein as well as their respective logos are trademarks or registered trademarks of SAP SE in Germany and other countries. Please see https://www.sap.com/copyright for additional trademark information and notices.

For customers interested in learning more about SAP products:

Global Customer Center: +49 180 534-34-24

United States Only: 1 (800) 872-1SAP (1-800-872-1727)

Please consider our privacy policy. If you received this press release in your e-mail and you wish to unsubscribe to our mailing list please contact [email protected] and write Unsubscribe in the subject line.

SOURCE SAP SE
CHICAGO, Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Shapiro+Raj, the largest minority-owned insights consultancy in North America, is pleased to announce the promotion of Chelsey Merker to the role of Senior Vice President, leading the company's Strategy and Research Excellence teams. Chelsey's ability to unearth future-forward insights that drive impactful results has made her an invaluable leader at the firm.

Shapiro+Raj is pleased to announce the promotion of Chelsey Merker to the role of Senior Vice President. Post this Chelsey Merker, Senior Vice President at Shapiro+Raj

In her previous role as Vice President, Strategy, Chelsey exhibited exceptional leadership, fostering a collaborative environment that fueled creativity and propelled the team to new heights. Her unique strategic point of view has consistently helped clients see and feel the opportunities revealed by the insights, thus helping businesses navigate complex challenges. Chelsey and her team have played a pivotal role in helping Shapiro+Raj earn the title of #1 Strategic Consultancy from GRIT.

In her new role, Chelsey will continue to elevate the critical inspiration and activation capabilities of Shapiro+Raj. Armed with the passionate belief that often insight alone is not enough, Chelsey's charge will be developing a strategy, facilitation and activation discipline that truly empowers clients to move from insight to inspiration to outcomes.

"As we continue to help our clients shape, not just respond to the future, Chelsey's promotion and increased responsibilities, is a natural progression," said Zain Raj, Chairman + CEO of Shapiro+Raj. "Her relentless commitment to excellence and her ability to translate data into insights that inspire powerful ideas is core to our consultancy platform."

"I am truly honored and excited to lead the Strategy + Research Excellence team at Shapiro+Raj," said Chelsey Merker. "I honestly love seeing clients have that light-bulb moment, where the opportunity becomes crystal clear, and they're energized to act. So, leading a team that will help all our clients achieve that through method excellence and inspirational strategy is a delight."

As Senior Vice President, Chelsey Merker will be at the forefront of shaping Shapiro+Raj's strategic direction, contributing to the firm's ongoing success and growth. In this role, she will be an influential member of the company's Senior Leadership Team.

About Shapiro+Raj

Shapiro+Raj is the seventh-largest independent insights and inspiration company in North America. Our mission is to generate Future-Forward Insights for our Fortune 500 clients that help them shape the future of their business and brands. We have been recognized as the top-25 most innovative research companies five-years in a row and the #1 strategic consultancy by GRIT. The company is a Nationally Certified Minority Business Enterprise. Headquartered in Chicago, the firm has offices in New York, and Pune, India.

SOURCE Shapiro+Raj
Snowboarding legend and Utah-based whiskey brand team up to preserve the land in their own backyards

PARK CITY, Utah, Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Three-time Olympic gold medalist and professional snowboarder Shaun White has experienced some of the most exceptional trails, slopes, waves and views the West has to offer. Over the years he's also witnessed firsthand the impact climate change has had on these places, with rising temperatures and melting snowpacks increasingly posing a threat. Today, High West, the Park City-based whiskey distillery, is thrilled to announce they're teaming up with Shaun White to protect and preserve the land they both call home  The West. Together they'll work to drive awareness of High West's Protect the West platform, striving to conserve the natural beauty of the West and all that inhabits it so it can be enjoyed by generations to come.

Shaun's experience growing up on the West Coast shaped his passions, and today his dedication to giving back to the land mirrors that of High West's. Throughout the partnership, Shaun will lend his voice to High West's Protect the West initiative, a commitment of $1 million over three years to organizations dedicated to keeping the West wild and preserving its beauty. The Protect the West platform distributes funding to organizations whose efforts fall into three focus areas: the fight against wildfires, protecting winters and wildland conservation.

"High West is all about seeking out adventure, and there's no better place to do that than the West," said Shaun White, five-time Olympian and professional snowboarder. "I was lucky enough to grow up exploring this incredible place, learning to snowboard, skateboard and even mountain bike here, and it's so important to me that people have the same opportunity I once had. It's pretty cool to be able to team up with not just my favorite whiskey, but one that shares my same passion for preserving the West."

"You don't have to look too far outside the doors of our Saloon or Distillery to see the West is in danger," said Daniel Schear, General Manager of High West. "Like Shaun, High West is a team made up of adventurers who appreciate all the West has to offer, which is why the Protect the West initiative hits home for all of us. Our passion for this cause is only growing, and we're honored to have Shaun's support in driving more urgency and action."

A trailblazer in his own craft, Shaun is known for taking risks and facing challenges head on. The High West team approaches whiskey with this same mentality, meticulously sourcing, distilling and blending the best whiskeys to create exceptional bottles. Whether it's a seasonal release such as Campfire, a new innovation, or the core expressions and Shaun's go-to whiskeys, High West Double Rye and High West Bourbon, the High West team challenges themselves to over deliver on quality and exceptional taste.

For more information on High West and the Protect the West platform, visit https://highwest.com/. To follow along with the partnership on social, tune in on Instagram @DrinkHighWest and @ShaunWhite.

ABOUT HIGH WEST

Utah's first legal distillery since 1870, High West's passion is crafting delicious and distinctive whiskeys and helping people appreciate whiskey all in the context of our home, the American West. High West offers an outstanding collection of highly rated whiskeys in finer liquor stores, bars, and restaurants in all 50 U.S. states and internationally.

High West was honored to receive Whisky Advocate's prestigious Distiller of the Year award in 2016. The ultimate authority on whisky said, "High West delivers innovative and delicious whiskeys, expands the definition of what it is to be a distiller, and pioneered a successful new paradigm for craft distilling."

High West's must-visit locations include our High West Distillery in Wanship, Utah, a 30,000 square foot world-class distillery and visitor center featuring educational tours and High West's unique country-western cuisine; and our High West Distillery & Saloon in historic Old Town Park City, the world's only ski-in gastro distillery that was voted "Best Park City Restaurant" by readers of City Weekly. It has received multiple accolades including earning Best Apres Ski Bar in Utah by USA TODAY's 10Best being named a finalist in the 2020 Park City's Best Awards for Best Apres Ski, a nomination for Best Bar by the James Beard Foundation, and a top-10 ranking on The Daily Meal's list of 150 Best Bars in America.

SOURCE High West
NEW YORK, Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Ann and Sid Mashburn reopened the doors of their newly renovated and carefully curated Mashburn store on Madison Avenue on Thursday, August 3. The New York location is particularly meaningful to the husband-and-wife duo, who first met in New York City and established respective careers in fashion - Ann at Conde Nast, later a stylist at J. Crew, and Sid as a designer at Ralph Lauren. They moved to Atlanta, Georgia to open their first store in 2007. Sixteen years later, they are back in the city where it all began.

The store is located at 926 Madison Avenue, at the southwest corner of Madison Avenue and 74th Street on Manhattan's Upper East Side. While it shares a single entrance, the store is divided between the Sid Mashburn men's brand and the Ann Mashburn women's brand. The 3,000-square-foot space has a modern yet traditional custom architectural design and bespoke interiors that reflect the brand's chic, welcoming, and relaxed aesthetic.

"We lived in New York for 15 years together and nothing could be more iconic than a shop on Madison Avenue, the perfect neighborhood blend of commerce and residential  the city has been one of our top e-commerce markets from the very beginning and we were just waiting for the right spot to open up. We are thrilled to have a permanent location in New York and now that our renovation is complete, it feels like a true reflection of our style." Ann and Sid Mashburn

The Sid Mashburn men's side has a more masculine feel, with whale grey custom millwork, a Joola 3000SC Pro tournament ping pong table, vinyl records on a Rega turntable, and vintage Turkish kilim rugs.

The Sid Mashburn brand designs and creates tailored clothing, shirting, sportswear, neckwear, shoes, small leather goods, and accessories. Additionally, the store offers Edward Green footwear, Tretorn & Diadora sneakers, PT01 trousers, Allyn Scura eyewear, Junghans and Timex watches, Laguiole knives, Saphir shoe care, Wm Brown and Monocle magazines, and Musgo Real grooming. The shop also offers made-to-measure shirts and tailored clothing, with an in-house Master Tailor for alterations and custom work.

"This is our smallest Mashburn store, but we still think it's got everything you need. We like to be a one-stop shop. I tend to say that you don't need a lot of choices, you just need the right choices." Sid Mashburn

The Ann Mashburn women's side of the store acts as a feminine complement, brighter and airier with white fixtures, zebra skin rugs, and a favorite blue toile enveloping the cash wrap.

The Ann Mashburn brand offers its own shirting, dresses, sweaters, skirts, shoes, handbags, small leather goods, and jewelry. A curated assortment of Ann's favorite outside brands includes A.P.C., Aspesi, and Harris Wharf apparel; Lizzie Fortunato, Of Rare Origin, and Aurelie Bidermann jewelry; K. Jacques and Castaner footwear; and Vintner's Daughter skincare.

As in their five other locations, both sides are tied together with the brand's signature wall-to-wall sisal flooring, unlacquered brass accents, inspirational mood boards with personal mementos, and a mix of antiques and modern furniture. The space is a true reflection of Sid's & Ann's history, shared aesthetic, and sense of hospitality.

"We're always trying to evoke the feeling you get when you walk into someone's home and feel incredibly welcomed. We want our New York shop to feel like an unexpected delight - an escape from the busy city and a friendly place to discover something new." Ann Mashburn

In addition to their New York City store, Mashburn has locations in Atlanta, GA; Dallas, TX; Houston, TX; and Washington D.C., with a Sid Mashburn shop location in Los Angeles, CA. For more information, visit www.shopmashburn.com .

Link to Images:

Mashburn Madison Avenue Hi-Res Photos

SOCIAL MEDIA:

@sidmashburn

@annmashburn



About Sid & Ann Mashburn

After spending their career in fashion  Sid, as a Designer for J. Crew, Ralph Lauren and Lands' End and Ann as a Fashion Editor for Conde Nast  the couple & their five daughters moved to Atlanta in 2007, and opened a single men's shop, Sid Mashburn on the West Side of Atlanta. The concept was simple: a combination of Sid's own designed-and-produced tailored clothing, sportswear, footwear, and accessories, with a direct-to-consumer business model, all in a space designed to feel as welcoming as possible. In 2010, they expanded the business with Ann Mashburn, a full women's line and shop, followed by the launch of e-commerce sites in 2011 to serve the brand's ever-expanding customer base. Since then, the couple have opened shops in Houston, Georgetown, and Dallas, with a men's-only shop in Los Angeles. Both Esquire and GQ have named Sid Mashburn "The best men's store in America" and Vogue has called Ann Mashburn "The best of everything in one place." For more information, visit www.shopmashburn.com

SOURCE Mashburn LLC
www.sitkagoldcorp.com

VANCOUVER, BC, Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ - Sitka Gold Corp. ("Sitka" or the "Company") (CSE: SIG) (FSE: 1RF) (OTCQB: SITKF) is pleased to announce that the Company has closed its previously announced non-brokered private placement for total gross proceeds of $4,000,000 (the "Offering") through the issuance of 22,222,222 units (the "Units") to a single investor, Ana Maria Cox De Gubbins, at a price of $0.18 per Unit.

Each Unit is comprised of one common share in the capital of the Company (a "Common Share") and one-half of one Common Share purchase warrant (each whole warrant, a "Warrant"). Each Warrant entitles the holder to purchase an additional Common Share in the capital of the Company at a price of $0.36 for a period of 24 months from the date of issuance.

No finder's fees, commission, bonus, agent's option or other compensation was paid in connection with the Offering.

The Company intends to use the net proceeds of the Offering for exploration work on its mineral properties, including the RC Gold Project in Yukon, and for general working capital.

"The Company is pleased to welcome Ms. Cox as a new, significant shareholder of Sitka Gold," comments Cor Coe, CEO and Director of Sitka, "Ms. Cox's investment in Sitka at a significant premium to market is a strong endorsement of the potential upside present at Sitka's RC Gold project in Yukon's Tombstone Gold Belt as well as Sitka's robust portfolio of other mineral assets in Nevada, Arizona and Nunavut. Ms. Cox is a significant shareholder of Snowline Gold Corp., which is also focused in the Tombstone Gold Belt, where she is an insider and currently holds over 10% of the issued and outstanding Common shares. With the addition of this investment, Sitka is well funded to continue advancing its portfolio of mineral assets, including RC Gold in Yukon where a diamond drilling program of up to 10,000 metres is currently underway."

Early Warning Disclosure

Ana Maria Cox De Gubbins acquired 22,222,222 Units for aggregate consideration of $4,000,000. Prior to the acquisition, Ms. Cox owned no securities of the Company, representing 0% of the Company's issued and outstanding Common Shares. Following the acquisition, Ms. Cox owns 22,222,222 Common Shares and 11,111,111 Warrants, representing approximately 14.3% of the issued and outstanding Common Shares on a partially diluted basis assuming the exercise of Ms. Cox's Warrants into Common Shares.

The Units were acquired by Ms. Cox for investment purposes. Ms. Cox may acquire additional securities of the Company, including on the open market or through private acquisitions, or sell securities of the Company, including on the open market or through private dispositions, in the future depending on market conditions, reformulation of plans and/or other relevant factors.

A copy of Ms. Cox's early warning report will appear on the Company's profile on SEDAR+ and may also be obtained by emailing [email protected].

About Sitka Gold Corp.

Sitka Gold Corp. is a well-funded mineral exploration company headquartered in Canada. The Company is managed by a team of experienced industry professionals and is focused on exploring for economically viable mineral deposits with its primary emphasis on gold, silver and copper mineral properties of merit. Sitka currently has an option to acquire a 100% interest in the RC, Barney Ridge, Clear Creek and OGI properties in the Yukon and the Burro Creek Gold property in Arizona. Sitka owns a 100% interest in its Alpha Gold property in Nevada, its Mahtin Gold property in the Yukon and its Coppermine River project in Nunavut.

The Company recently announced an NI 43-101 compliant initial inferred Mineral Resource Estimate of 1,340,000 ounces of gold(1) beginning at surface and grading 0.68 g/t at its RC Gold Project in Yukon (see news release dated January 19, 2023). The inferred mineral resource estimate is comprised of two deposits: the Blackjack deposit containing 900,000 ounces of gold at a grade of 0.83 g/t gold and the Eiger deposit containing 440,000 ounces of gold at a grade of 0.50 g/t gold. A diamond drilling program of up to 10,000 metres is currently underway at RC Gold.

The Company is also planning additional drilling at its Alpha Gold Property in Nevada where a new Carlin-type gold system was recently discovered. The Company is focused on vectoring towards the high-grade core of this system, which is located on the Cortez Trend just 40 km southeast of the Cortez Mine Complex of Barrick/Newmont.

(1) Simpson, R. January 19, 2023. Clear Creek Property, RC Gold Project, NI 43-101 Technical Report, Dawson Mining District, Yukon Territory.

The scientific and technical content of this news release has been reviewed and approved by Cor Coe, P.Geo., Director and CEO of the Company, and a Qualified Person (QP) as defined by National Instrument 43-101.

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF

SITKA GOLD CORP.

"Donald Penner"

President and Director

Cautionary and Forward-Looking Statements

Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

This release includes certain statements and information that may constitute forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws. Forward-looking statements relate to future events or future performance and reflect the expectations or beliefs of management of the Company regarding future events. Generally, forward-looking statements and information can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "intends" or "anticipates", or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "should", "would" or "occur". This information and these statements, referred to herein as "forwardlooking statements", are not historical facts, are made as of the date of this news release and include without limitation, statements regarding discussions of future plans, estimates and forecasts and statements as to management's expectations and intentions with respect to, among other things, the use of the proceeds raised under the Offering and the Company's anticipated work programs.

In making the forward-looking statements in this news release, the Company has applied several material assumptions, including without limitation, that the Company will complete its anticipated work programs and use the proceeds of the Offering as currently anticipated.

These forwardlooking statements involve numerous risks and uncertainties and actual results might differ materially from results suggested in any forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties include, among other things, market uncertainty, the results of the Company's anticipated work programs and that the Company will not use the proceeds of the Offering as currently anticipated.

Although management of the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking statements or forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements and forward-looking information. Readers are cautioned that reliance on such information may not be appropriate for other purposes. The Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking statement, forward-looking information or financial out-look that are incorporated by reference herein, except in accordance with applicable securities laws. We seek safe harbor.

SOURCE Sitka Gold Corp.
CORAL SPRINGS, Fla., Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- 2023 has been a year of incredible growth and Cruise Planners has joined the ranks of South Florida Business Journal's Fast 50 at #10. This ranking recognizes the region's fastest-growing private companies. Cruise Planners was selected based on its growth in the past three years. Cruise Planners saw annual sales growth from $545 million in 2022 to over $845 million in 2023, which also landed them on Travel Weekly's Power List at #20. Cruise Planners has contributed to the growth of South Florida not only by employment efforts but more importantly by bringing thousands of tourists to South Florida through their network of 2,500 franchisees planning memorable vacations.

Cruise Planners accepts the South Florida Business Journal award for #10 on their Fast 50 fastest growing companies list.

The company was honored by SFBJ on Aug. 24th at an awards program at Gulfstream Park  Sport of Kings in Hallandale Beach with COO Theresa Scalzitti, CIO Brian Shultz, VP of Technology Phill Guerra, Director of Operations Diana Riel, VP of Finance Nikki Hetzel, VP of Operations Jeff Sherota, Director of Destination Sales Laura Blanco, and Creative Resources Senior Manager Andrew Shultz on hand to accept the award on behalf of the company.

"Cruise Planners has persevered through some of the hardest years in travel. To accomplish this amazing growth and to be recognized by the South Florida Business Journal is a true honor," said Michelle Fee, CEO and Founder of Cruise Planners. "This honor solidifies the hard work of our team and our incredible network of travel advisors throughout the U.S."

To qualify for the honor, companies have to be privately held, be headquartered in the tri-county region, generate at least $1 million in annual revenue, and be in business at least three years. The ceremony featured a spirited reveal of the Top 25 companies with more than $25 million in annual revenue and the Top 25 with revenue under $25 million. Companies were ranked by revenue percentage growth from 2020 to 2022.

Company Background: Cruise Planners was founded in 1994 and is the nation's largest home-based travel agent franchise network. As a leader in the travel franchise industry, Cruise Planners positions a nation-wide network of 2,500 franchise owners for success by providing award-winning and innovative marketing programs, proprietary and cutting-edge booking and technology tools, as well as professional development and travel agent training with the industry's top executives. The company continues to be an industry leader and was named the No.1 travel franchise by Entrepreneur magazine for 18 consecutive years and awarded by Franchise Business Review as "Best-In-Category" for 3 years and ranked #20 on Travel Weekly's 2023 Power List.

Franchise Business Review also ranked Cruise Planners #3 OVERALL on their list of Top 200 Franchises of 2022. Cruise Planners was recently featured in Entrepreneur as one of the top 30 franchise innovators in technology, has been consistently named as one of the Top Women-Owned Businesses by the South Florida Business Journal, is on the Inc. 5000 list as one of the fastest-growing private companies in America, and was recognized as one of the Top Workplaces by the Sun Sentinel.

Visit our website, www.cruiseplanners.com , for more information or to view the complete list of awards and honors. For those interested in becoming a franchise owner, please visit https://www.cruiseplannersfranchise.com/.

SOURCE Cruise Planners Franchising, LLC
CH4 Global will meet growing global demand for enteric methane mitigation solutions in animal agriculture.

HENDERSON, Nev., Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- CH4 Global, Inc., a climate tech company on the path to radically reducing GHG emissions in animal agriculture, today announced it has raised US$29 million in Series B funding. The company will use the funds to build and validate the CH4 Global EcoPark, an aquaculture and production facility that will make CH4 Global's signature product, Methane Tamer, at scale.

This round, led by DCVC, DCVC Bio, and Cleveland Avenue  with participation from other investors with a strong interest in climate change  brings the total raised to date to nearly US$47 million. It also underscores market demand for safe, viable solutions to vastly reduce enteric methane from ruminant livestock.

When added to cattle feed, Methane Tamerwhich uses a red seaweed (Asparagopsis)reduces the animals' methane emissions by up to 90% while also reducing the feed energy lost to methane emissions. With the development of its CH4 Global EcoPark, the company is poised for expansion in key markets and with key partners throughout all six inhabitable continents.

This is a key development in the fight against climate change. The 1.5 billion cows on the planet produce more than 150 million tons of methane annually -- the largest single source of methane globally. At more than 12 billion tons CO 2 -e per year (at an average of 100 kg methane/cow), this is a larger GHG output than from the US, the EU, and India combined. Moreover, the UN cites methane as over 80 times more impactful than CO 2 on global warming over the next 20 years.

"We are receiving massive interest from governments, food producers and farmers of all sizes, fueling our sense of urgency that we must act now to avoid a climate tipping point. The pressure is on with new regulations and the desire to produce at a measurably lower impact. What we've developed at CH4 Global is what we call a CH4 Global EcoPark, which enables low-cost growth and processing of Asparagopsis," said Steve Meller, PhD, co-founder and CEO, CH4 Global. "We are formulating our unique feed supplement products, Methane Tamer, to meet the specific needs of each cattle market segment, starting with feedlot operations, beef and dairy, as well as for grazing dairies. Eventually, we will also formulate for remote and generally unattended cattle around the world."

"CH4 Global's secret sauce is its product, plain and simple: the feed additive it has expertly formulated stands apart from other seaweed-based offerings," said John Hamer PhD, Managing Partner at DCVC Bio and a member of the CH4 Global board of directors. "DCVC Bio is thrilled to back Steve and his exceptional team: they are ready to scale up a critical solution to climate change."

"CH4 is exactly the kind of deep tech company the world urgently needs," said Zachary Bogue, DCVC Co-founder and Managing Partner. "Their natural and proprietary solution to the vexing global problem of methane from cattle can have a material environmental impact quickly and at scale."

As part of this funding round, Cleveland Avenue, LLC will join the CH4 Global Board of Directors. "We are excited about the opportunity that CH4 Global represents in addressing the major global problem of methane gas emissions. Cleveland Avenue looks forward to supporting CH4 Global's world-class team in this endeavor," said Randall Lewis, Managing Partner at Cleveland Avenue, LLC.

Over 150 countries have signed the Global Methane Pledge, which aims to reduce methane emissions by 30%. This followed the IPCC's May 2021 report that stated that "methane is the single biggest lever for climate change impact in the next 25 years." According to the IPCC, methane emissions must be reduced by 45% by 2030 relative to projected levels in order to put the world on a path consistent with the Paris Agreement 1.5C target.

About DCVC and DCVC Bio (https://www.dcvc.com)

DCVC backs entrepreneurs using deep tech to solve problems and multiply the benefits of capitalism for everyone while reducing its cost. DCVC Bio invests in early-stage life science companies driven by deep-tech approaches.

About Cleveland Avenue (https://www.clevelandavenue.com)

Founded by Don Thompson, the former President & CEO of McDonald's Corporation, Cleveland Avenue is a Chicago-based venture capital firm that invests in lifestyle consumer brands and technology companies that positively disrupt large and growing markets. To learn more, visit www.clevelandavenue.com.

About CH4 Global (https://www.ch4global.com)

CH4 Global, founded in 2018, is on an urgent mission to bend the climate curve, through collaboration with strategic partners worldwide. Led by a world-class team of senior business builders, scientists and entrepreneurs, the company delivers market-disruptive products that enable the food industry value chain to radically reduce GHG emissions. The company's first innovation, Methane Tamer feed additives for feedlot cattle, harnesses the power of Asparagopsis seaweed to reduce enteric methane emissions by up to 90%. CH4 Global is headquartered in Henderson, NV, with current subsidiaries in Australia and New Zealand. Learn more about CH4 Global and our recent news.

Media Contacts  CH4 Global, Inc.

For press inquiries in North America, Latin America, and Europe

Charlene Moore, Public Relations Officer, and Communications Counsel

[email protected] | P: +1 725 272 5732 | M: +1 831 331 5332

For press inquiries in Asia, Australia, and New Zealand

Verity Edwards, Hughes Public Relations and Communication Counsel

[email protected] | P: 08 8412 4100 | M: 0412 678 942

SOURCE CH4 Global, Inc.
WIESELBURG, Austria, Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Stefan Hornivius (53) will take over as COO of ZKW Group GmbH on 28 August 2023. Born in Germany, he succeeds Wolfgang Muhri, who is leaving the company at his own request at the end of August. Hornivius has more than 25 years of management experience in the automotive industry and related sectors. He has held senior positions at MAN, Siemens VDO (Head of Quality), Continental (Head of Industrial Engineering), Leistritz (Managing Director Technology) and NIDEC GPM (Group COO). Hornivius was most recently CEO at mechatronics specialist Iskra Mehanizmi.

Stefan Hornivius can draw on many years of expertise in the areas of industrial engineering and operational excellence as well as quality and supply chain management. His predecessor Wolfgang Muhri will take on new professional challenges. Muhri began his career at ZKW in Wieselburg in May 2014 as Head of Operations. From 2016 to 2018, he was responsible for the ZKW Lighting Systems plant in Wieselburg as General Plant Manager. Most recently, as COO of ZKW Group GmbH, he was responsible for Operations, including Purchasing, Manufacturing & Process Engineering and Quality. "We would like to express our sincere thanks to Wolfgang Muhri for his outstanding work, with which he has significantly shaped and successfully developed ZKW in challenging times over a period of nine years," says Dr Wilhelm Steger, CEO of the ZKW Group.

Click to download images related to this announcement.

About ZKW

The ZKW Group is the specialist for innovative premium lighting systems and electronics. As a system supplier, ZKW is a global partner to the automotive industry. The group develops and produces products based on our motto of "Bright Minds, Bright Lights," combining bright minds with modern production technologies to produce complex premium lighting and electronic modules for international automotive manufacturers.

Our top products include powerful and cost-efficient complete LED systems. The ZKW Group has a total of twelve locations worldwide, with intelligently networked development and production. In 2022, the Group employed around 10,000 workers and generated total revenues of 1.4 billion euros.

In accordance with the corporate vision "Ground-breaking premium lighting and electronic systems from ZKW for all mobility concepts of the global automotive industry", the company's primary goal is to produce top-quality high-tech products and to promote the development of innovative holistic lighting systems.

With our discoveries and inventions, the ZKW corporate group makes vehicles more desirable, more unique, safer, and more energy efficient.

Our 360 degree product portfolio includes headlamps and fog lamps, rear lamps, flashers, interior and license plate lamps as well as electronic modules. Major automotive manufacturers trust their brands to innovative products from ZKW. We are proud of our customers like BMW (BMW, Rolls Royce), DAIMLER (MERCEDES-BENZ Cars and Trucks), FORD (Lincoln, Ford), GEELY (Volvo, Polestar, Lynk & Co, Geely), GENERAL MOTORS (Buick, Chevrolet, Cadillac), Hyundai/Kia, JLR (Jaguar, Land Rover), Stellantis (Opel, Citroen), RENAULT/NISSAN (Infiniti, Alpine), VGTT (Volvo Trucks, MACK) and VW (Porsche, Audi, Lamborghini, Bentley, Skoda, Seat/Cupra, VW, VW Commercial Vehicles, MAN, Scania).

With intelligent lighting systems and innovative styling, ZKW is shaping the look and character of vehicles worldwide.

Contact

ZKW Group GmbH

Sandra Simeonidis-Huber

Group Communication und Marketing

Rottenhauser Strae 8

3250 Wieselburg

T +43 7416 505 2051

[email protected]

SOURCE ZKW Group
Stramsen's pipeline has 32 drug candidates. Multiple FDA - IND applications are expected to be filed soon.

HOUSTON, Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The Chief Executive Officer of Houston-based Biotechnology Company Stramsen Biotech Inc. Dr. Kefas Mugittu (Ph.D.) has announced 32 Drug candidates in company's pipeline at a company's board meeting. These are new natural plant-based medicine candidates that are in different stages. The company's Board Members' meeting took place on July 30, 2023.

Chris White

Military Veteran Mr. Chris White (MBA) has been appointed as The New President and Chief Financial Officer of Stramsen Biotech Inc. a Houston, Texas based biotech company. US Military Veteran Mr. Chris White holds a Master of Business Administration specializing in Global Business Management. His undergraduate degree is a Bachelor of Arts in Security Management. He earned both degrees from American Military University. In addition, he holds executive certifications in Leadership & Management as well as Strategic Negotiation from the University of Notre Dame.

After serving in the United States Marine Corps for four years, Chris began working in the energy industry at various levels supporting human capital strategies for technical business units. Later, Chris became the Vice President of Operations for an emerging startup organization, Adaptive Construction Solutions, specializing in technical trade certified apprenticeship programs. In 2017, Chris entered the world of consulting and entrepreneurship, and most recently, Chris has served as the Director of Human Resources, Recruiting, Compliance, IT & Special Projects for Vanguard Supply Chain Solutions.

Eleven out of 32 natural plant-based drug candidates are ready for clinical development. The medicines are for treatment of different diseases including HIV / AIDS, cancer, wound care, leukemia, cardiovascular, neuropathy, prostate cancer, diabetes, kidney infections and for bone joint pain and other diseases. Our Ph.D. level scientists have combined medicine research experience of more than 80 years. They have access to over 8,000 databases of medicinal plants. Due to rising resistance and safety concerns to some synthetic drugs, people around the world are increasingly turning to natural plant-based drugs / medicines for their healthcare needs. Currently about 40% of all medicines that are prescribed to all patients in the world are derived from medicinal plants.

Stramsen Biotech, Inc will also donate a total of 100,000 shares of company's common stocks to any eligible non-profit organizations that work with disabled military veterans in the US, children who live in poverty in developing countries or to refugee camps overseas and select individual veterans.

www.StramsenBiotech.com

https://www.facebook.com/StramsenBiotech

https://twitter.com/stramsen



Media Contact:

Chris White

281-777-0905

[email protected]

SOURCE Stramsen Biotech, Inc
BAKU, Azerbaijan, August 29. In accordance with the instruction of President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev, the return of former internally displaced persons to the restored city of Lachin continue, Trend reports.

Another group of citizens was sent from the Gobu Park 3 residential complex in the Garadagh district of Baku on August 29. At this stage, another 13 families (52 people) moved to the city of Lachin.

The resettled families will settle in the houses where they once lived in Lachin, which were restored or rebuilt on the basis of instructions from the head of state after the end of the Armenian occupation. Lachin residents thanked President Ilham Aliyev and First Lady Mehriban Aliyeva for their comprehensive care, expressed gratitude to the valiant Azerbaijani army, which liberated the lands from occupation.

Thus, until today, a permanent settlement in the city of Lachin has been provided for 247 families - 956 people.
Stride Rite expands Stride Forward collection with launch of Cedar boot

NEW YORK, Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Stride Rite , a leader in the children's footwear industry, announces its latest eco-friendly offering: the Cedar boot, just in time for the upcoming fall season. With a steadfast commitment to preserving the planet and nurturing the next generation, the Stride Forward collection seamlessly blends style, comfort, and environmental responsibility.

We sought out eco-friendly materials to make the Cedar boot the perfect addition to the collection. Post this Meet Cedar, the latest eco-friendly offering from Stride Rite as part of their Stride Forward initiative to create a better tomorrow for the next generation and their first steps. Stride Rite introduces a new eco-friendly style for fall with launch of Cedar boot.

"After a successful spring launch of the Sprout and Fern [eco-friendly sneakers], we knew we had to expand our Stride Forward collection for fall." states Naly Lee, Senior Design Director, Stride Rite. "We sought out eco-friendly materials to make the Cedar boot the perfect addition to the collection."

Available in little kids' sizes 3-6, key highlights of the Cedar include:

Eco-Conscious Materials: Each boot in the Stride Forward collection is thoughtfully crafted using eco-conscious materials such as recycled polyester, recycled rubber, and recycled twill lining.

Each boot in the Stride Forward collection is thoughtfully crafted using eco-conscious materials such as recycled polyester, recycled rubber, and recycled twill lining. Enhanced Comfort with SoftMotion : Approved by the American Podiatric Medical Association, SoftMotion is designed to encourage natural movement and be the healthiest shoes for your baby's foot. With a flexible, slip resistant sole, memory foam footbed, easy on and off opening, the Cedar boot ensures that kids not only look stylish but also feel comfortable wearing them.

Approved by the American Podiatric Medical Association, SoftMotion is designed to encourage natural movement and be the healthiest shoes for your baby's foot. With a flexible, slip resistant sole, memory foam footbed, easy on and off opening, the Cedar boot ensures that kids not only look stylish but also feel comfortable wearing them. Planet-Friendly Packaging: Stride Rite's commitment to sustainability extends to the packaging as wellfrom FSC-certified sustainable sourcing to utilization of plant-based inks, elimination of toxic materials and limited factory wasteto reduce environmental impact.

Stride Rite first debuted the Stride Forward collection in April 2022 on Earth Day with the launch of their Stride Rite 360 Aseel sneaker made from recycled water bottles. Since then, the collection has expanded to include two additional styles: the Fern and Sprout sneakers. Stride Forward is the brand's commitment to creating a better world for the next generation and their first steps.

"The styling and storytelling of our Stride Forward initiative and collection of shoes has resonated with our customers and we are excited that we are on a journey of taking small steps to make a bigger impact together," shares Lee.

The Cedar is now available online at www.striderite.com and in select independently owned Stride Rite retail stores.

About Stride Rite

Founded in 1919, Stride Rite is a leader in the children's footwear industry. With a rich 100-year history, Stride Rite delivers quality products with advanced and cutting-edge technologies. Inspired by a child's out-of-this-world imagination and the challenges of parenting, Stride Rite puts an emphasis on fit and quality because they understand that parents' greatest desire is to provide their kids with the best. Stride Rite is distributed throughout the US in specialty retailers, independent and department stores and online. Stride Rite is a division of Vida Shoes International, Inc. a global leader in the footwear industry. Learn more at www.striderite.com and follow Stride Rite on Facebook and Instagram at @StrideRite.

SOURCE Stride Rite
The IT Recruiting and Staffing firm was awarded ClearlyRated's 2023 Best of Staffing Award for Employee Satisfaction, Chicago's 2023 Best and Brightest, and certified as USA Great Place to Work 2023

CHICAGO, Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Peterson Technology Partners, a premiere IT consulting and recruiting firm, today announced they are the winners of ClearlyRated's 2023 Best of Staffing Award for Employee Satisfaction, Chicago's 2023 Best and Brightest Companies to Work For and were certified for the 4th time as a Great Place to Work.

ClearlyRated's Best of Staffing is the nation's only service excellence award for the staffing industry that leverages third party validated survey responses from employment agency clients and job seekers. The award program provides statistically valid and objective service quality benchmarks for the staffing industry, revealing which firms deliver the highest quality of service to their clients and job candidates.

The Best and Brightest Companies to Work For program identifies and honors organizations that display a commitment to excellence in their human resource practices and employee enrichment. Organizations are assessed based on categories such as communication, work-life balance, employee education, diversity, recognition, retention and more.

Great Places to Work is a global authority on workplace culture. This organization provides tools to survey organizational workforces, discover valuable insights, and earn recognition for outstanding company environment.

In 2023, Peterson Technology Partners achieved a 96% approval rating from their staff, well over the industry standard of 57%. Some of the values highlighted by the PTP staff included transparency, diversity, unique work culture, and flexibility.

"We are honored to be recognized for these distinguished awards, solidifying Peterson Technology Partners as a leader in recruiting and staffing," said Nick Shah, CEO and founder, Peterson Technology Partners. "We are committed to creating a healthy work environment and providing the best possible service to our clients and customers."

This is the fourth time Peterson Technology Partners has received the Great Place to Work award and the second time they've received the Best and Brightest Award. Peterson Technology Partners was measured against multiple parameters for all three awards including employee satisfaction, HR practices, diversity, organizational values, benefits, recognition and more.

About Peterson Tech Partners

Peterson Tech Partners (PTP) is a premier IT consulting and recruiting firm that specializes in sourcing top talent in artificial intelligence, cloud, data science, cyber security, DevOps and others. Headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, PTP has over two decades of experience in providing staffing solutions for Fortune 100 companies and provides winning talent for the broad spectrum of IT projects. With proprietary AI-powered recruiting technology, and an expert team of recruiters, PTP addresses the most challenging staffing initiatives, and is strategically investing in new initiatives to continue to offer best-in-class solutions for their partners and clients.

Media Contact:

Samantha Rubenstein

[email protected]

(650) 200-6110

SOURCE Peterson Technology Partners
VANCOUVER, BC, Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ - TerraZero Technologies Inc. ("TerraZero" or the "Company"), a vertically integrated Metaverse development group and leading web3 technology company specializing in helping brands create immersive experiences, proudly announces their plans to release the Intraverse PRO beta in January of 2024. This addition to the TerraZero portfolio sets the stage for unparalleled omni-channel connectivity, solidifying the company's commitment to delivering cutting-edge solutions for modern businesses, now with a significant focus on artists, creators and SMBs with Intraverse PRO.

Video Render of an Intraverse PRO environment.

"We are thrilled to usher in a new era of immersive virtual experiences with Intraverse PRO," said Dan Reitzik, CEO of TerraZero. "This platform is not just about creating spaces but also about connecting with audiences on an entirely new level. It's about transforming virtual realms into hubs of creativity, e-commerce, and community, with no barrier to entry. Businesses, artists and the like need a way for their customers to simply tap a post on their phone, and jump right into new and exciting experiences."

The new subscription-based platform is set to redefine how businesses, creators, artists, and individuals interact and engage within immersive 3D environments, similar to subscription-based website-building platforms. With an intuitive plug-and-play design, users will have access to a dynamic dashboard that enables the effortless upload of photos, documents, videos, and other media.

Furthermore, users can personalize their virtual spaces with room colors and decor or by implementing their own brand elements and guidelines. This ensures that every virtual space is a true reflection of the user's unique vision. Emulating trusted payment platforms such as ShopPay and ApplePay, Intraverse PRO will incorporate e-commerce functionalities by facilitating payments through the reliable and trusted payment gateways. This empowers users to transform their virtual spaces into dynamic marketplaces, unlocking the full spectrum of e-commerce potential.

The platform also allows virtual environments to be experienced across both mobile and desktop devices. With the ability to extend invitations through social media, any user can effortlessly invite followers and friends to participate, regardless of the device they choose.

VIDEO LINK: https://youtu.be/Zf4HPb4QF7M

Caption: Video Render of an Intraverse PRO environment.

Intraverse PRO emerges as a testament to TerraZero's dedication to pushing the boundaries of SaaS technology. With a robust feature set and advanced capabilities, this revolutionary platform establishes a seamless link across the entire omni-channel landscape. Through bridging gaps and connecting touchpoints, Intraverse PRO empowers businesses to create a consistent and engaging experience for their customers, regardless of the channel they choose.

TerraZero is slated to launch the Intraverse PRO beta in January 2024.

About TerraZero Technologies Inc.

TerraZero Technologies Inc. ("TerraZero") is a vertically integrated Metaverse development group and leading web3 technology company specializing in helping brands create immersive experiences. The Company's Metaverse-agnostic vision is to develop and implement products and services with scalable commercial applications to flourish engagement across gamified experiences where enterprise-level businesses, Metaverse platforms, and web3 creators can seamlessly bridge and actionably grow their virtual world and the physical world endeavors together as one. TerraZero owns digital real estate for brands to establish presence in existing virtual worlds and can also offer brands their own private worlds to provide offices and services to those interested in the Metaverse. Furthermore, TerraZero acquires, designs, builds, and operates virtual assets and solutions to monetize the Metaverse ecosystem. The Company's businesses are segmented into five (5) divisions which include: (1) Immersive experience creation in existing or private virtual worlds; (2) advertising; (3) data analytics; (4) events and marketing; and (5) infrastructure. TerraZero aims to support the community, foster innovation, and drive adoption.

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information

This news release includes certain statements and information that may constitute forward-looking information or statements within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Forward-looking statements relate to future events or future performance and reflect the expectations or beliefs of management of the Company regarding future events. Generally, forward-looking statements and information can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "intends," "expects," or "anticipates," or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events, or results "may," "could," "should," "would," or will "potentially" or "likely" occur. This information and these statements, referred to herein as "forwardlooking statements," are not historical facts and are made as of the date of this news release, which includes without limitation, statements regarding discussions of future plans, estimates, and forecasts and statements as to management's expectations and intentions with respect to, among other things: the expected benefits and outcomes with Intraverse PRO; the expected timeline to launch the product; developing products including its Intraverse product and the expected outcomes of such product and services; that establishing a presence within the Metaverse will provide the Company with new users, branding, and marketing opportunities; events, courses of action, and the potential of the Company's technology and operations, among others, are all forward-looking information.

Events or circumstances may cause actual results to differ materially from those predicted, as a result of numerous known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors, many of which are beyond the control of the Company, including but not limited to, market and other conditions, business, economic, and capital market conditions; the ability to manage operating expenses, which may adversely affect the Company's financial condition; the ability to remain competitive as other better financed competitors develop and release competitive products; regulatory uncertainties; access to personnel, employees, and consultants; market conditions and the demand and pricing for products and services; the demand and pricing of cryptocurrencies and NFTs (including digital assets); security threats, including a loss/theft of TerraZero's NFTs, cryptocurrencies, and other assets; TerraZero's relationships with its customers and business partners; TerraZero's ability to successfully define, design, and release new products in a timely manner that meet customers' needs; the ability to attract, retain, and motivate qualified personnel; competition in the industry; the impact of technology changes on the products and industry; failure to develop new and innovative products; the ability to successfully maintain and enforce our intellectual property rights and defend third-party claims of infringement of their intellectual property rights; the impact of intellectual property litigation that could materially and adversely affect the business; the ability to manage working capital; and the dependence on key personnel. As a result, TerraZero may not actually achieve its plans, projections, or expectations. In addition, such statements and information are based on numerous assumptions regarding present and future business strategies and the environment in which the Company will operate in the future, including the demand for its products, the ability to develop software successfully, that there will be no regulation or law that will prevent the Company from operating its business, anticipated costs, the ability to secure sufficient capital to complete its business plans, the ability to achieve goals, and the price of cryptocurrencies and NFTs (including digital assets). Given these risks, uncertainties, and assumptions, you should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements.

Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in forward-looking statements include failure to obtain regulatory approval, the continued availability of capital and financing, technology failures, failure to obtain any permits required to operate the business, the impact of technology changes on the industry, the impact of COVID-19 or other viruses and diseases on the Company's ability to operate and hire personnel, competition, security threats including stolen NFTs and cryptocurrencies from TerraZero or its customers, consumer sentiment towards TerraZero's products, services and Metaverse technology generally, failure to develop new and innovative products, litigation, increase in operating costs, increase in labor costs, decrease in the price of cryptocurrencies and NFTs, failure of counterparties to perform their contractual obligations, government regulations, loss of key employees and consultants, and general economic, market, or business conditions. Forward-looking statements contained in this news release are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement. The reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on any forward-looking information. The forward-looking statements contained in this news release are made as of the date of this news release. Except as required by law, the Company disclaims any intention and assumes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise. Additionally, the Company undertakes no obligation to comment on the expectations of or statements made by third parties.

SOURCE TerraZero Technologies Inc.
NEW YORK, Aug. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The cryogenic freezers market is estimated to grow by USD 148.21 million at a CAGR of 7.2% between 2022 and 2027, according to Technavio. North America is estimated to contribute 35% to the growth of the global market during the forecast period. The US is the key contributor to the market in the region, due to the growing demand for cryopreservation of biological materials such as antibodies, nucleic acids, proteins, cells, and tissue samples in biopharmaceutical research. In addition, supportive regulatory measures such as the Regenerative Medicine Promotion Act of 2014 (H.R. 4494; S. 2126) help providers establish facilities for the efficient storage of pluripotent stem cells for regenerative medicine purposes. Hence, these factors are expected to drive market growth in the region during the forecast period. For Comprehensive details on the market size of the historical period(2017 to 2021) and forecast period (2023-2027) - View the Free Sample report

Technavio has announced its latest market research report titled Global Cryogenic Freezers Market

Company Landscape

The cryogenic freezers market is fragmented; the companies of new entrants cannot be overlooked. The major companies have well-established economies of scale and market presence and generally rely on positioning technological advances, and the price of the products -The report provides a full list of key companies, their strategies, and the latest developments. Buy Now

Market Dynamics

Key Driver

The favorable government support and increase in funding is a key factor driving market growth. The government is improving cryopreservation, cell banking, and biobanking through continued funding and promotion, with the aim of improving healthcare quality and supporting biotech firms in life science research. In addition, organizations such as FAO and NBPGR preserve genetic samples, seeds, and tissues of rare species to ensure their conservation. Hence, government support is expected to drive market growth during the forecast period.

Major Trend - Increasing mergers and acquisitions (M&As) and collaboration are major trends in the market.

Significant Challenge - The threat from faulty or loosely insulated cryogenic freezers is a significant challenge restricting market growth.

Technavio has identified key trends, drivers, and challenges in the market, which will help clients improve their strategies to stay ahead of their competitors. - View Free Sample Report

Company Profiles

The cryogenic freezers market report includes information on the product launches, sustainability, and prospects of leading companies including Air Water Inc., ARCTIKO AS, Aucma Co. Ltd, Avantor Inc., Azenta Inc., BioLife Solutions Inc., Chart Industries Inc., Eppendorf SE, Froilabo, Haier Biomedical, Helmer Scientific Inc., Messer SE and Co. KGaA, PHC Holdings Corp., Scientific Research Instruments Co Pvt Ltd, Stericox India Pvt. Ltd., Taylor Wharton, Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc., ZHONGKE MEILING CRYOGENICS CO. LTD., and ACMAS Technologies Pvt. Ltd.

Market Segmentation

The cryogenic freezer market is segmented by type (tunnel freezer, IQF freezer, immersion freezer, spiral freezer, and others), end-user (hospitals and blood centers, biotechnology companies, academic and research institutions, and others), and geography (North America, Europe, Asia, and Rest of World (ROW)).

The market share growth by the tunnel freezer segment will be significant during the forecast period. Tunnel freezers use a continuous conveyor system to quickly freeze items, improving freezing speed and efficiency. These freezers use cryogenic gases such as liquid nitrogen or carbon dioxide to achieve extremely low temperatures in the freezer chamber. Furthermore, they have several advantages, including high throughput and continuous processing, which ensure a smooth product flow. The fast speed of the freezing tunnel reduces the cost and freezing time compared to conventional batch freezers. Hence, these factors are expected to drive segment growth during the forecast period.

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Related Reports

The medical active air sampling system market size is estimated to grow by USD 109.11 million at a CAGR of 6.28% between 2022 and 2027. This medical active air sampling system market report extensively covers market segmentation by type (portable microbial sampling system and desktop microbial sampling system), application (pharmaceuticals and biotechnology, hospitals, and clinics, and others), and geography (North America, Europe, Asia, and the Rest of the World (ROW)). One of the key factors driving the medical active air sampling system market growth is the increased restrictions for microbiological monitoring.

The electron microscopy sample preparation market size is estimated to grow by USD 244.64 million at a CAGR of 7.9% between 2022 and 2027. This electron microscopy sample preparation market report extensively covers market segmentation by type ( scanning electron microscope and transmission electron microscope), application( pharma and biotech companies, and academic and research institutes), and geography (North America, Europe, Asia, and the Rest of the World (ROW)). The rise in clinical trials in developing nations is the key trend shaping the growth of the market.

Table of Contents

1 Executive Summary

2 Market Landscape

3 Market Sizing

4 Historic Market Size

5 Five Forces Analysis

6 Market Segmentation by End User

7 Market Segmentation by Type

8 Customer Landscape

9 Geographic Landscape

10 Drivers, Challenges, and Trends

11 Company Landscape

12 Company Analysis

13 Appendix

About US

Technavio is a leading global technology research and advisory company. Their research and analysis focus on emerging market trends and provide actionable insights to help businesses identify market opportunities and develop effective strategies to optimize their market positions. With over 500 specialized analysts, Technavio's report library consists of more than 17,000 reports and counting, covering 800 technologies, spanning 50 countries. Their client base consists of enterprises of all sizes, including more than 100 Fortune 500 companies. This growing client base relies on Technavio's comprehensive coverage, extensive research, and actionable market insights to identify opportunities in existing and potential markets and assess their competitive positions within changing market scenarios.

Contact

Technavio Research

Jesse Maida

Media & Marketing Executive

US: +1 844 364 1100

UK: +44 203 893 3200

Email: [email protected]

Website: www.technavio.com

SOURCE Technavio
VANCOUVER, Wash., Aug. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Lauren Roles is acknowledged as a Top Pinnacle Healthcare Professional for her contributions to the field of Internal Medicine.

Lauren Roles

Dr. Roles pursued higher education at the University of Puget Sound in Tacoma, Washington where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Molecular and Cellular Biology. She received a medical degree from the University of Colorado School of Medicine in Denver; completed a residency in internal medicine at Eisenhower Medical Center in Rancho Mirage California; and finished a fellowship in geriatric medicine at Oregon Health & Science University in Portland.

Dual board-certified as an internist and in geriatric medicine by the American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM), the doctor explained that the ABIM is a physician-led non-profit independent evaluation organization driven by doctors who want to achieve higher standards for better care in a rapidly changing world. The doctor explained that internal medicine is the medical specialty dealing with the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of adult diseases. Physicians specializing in internal medicine are called internists and manage and prevent common and complex diseases by providing comprehensive care and promoting overall well-being.

Focused on enabling people to identify and reach their health goals, Dr. Roles works at Vancouver Clinic in Vancouver Washington, and is trained to help older adults with complicated health problems. She asserts that she enjoys making tailored plans for each individual considering their unique conditions, concerns, and hopes to reach their health goals so that they can do everything they want to do.

The doctor believes that the key to practicing medicine well is to listen to the needs of patients. She is dedicated to providing the latest advancements in her practice and is associated with the American College of Physicians; The American Geriatric Society; and the Oregon Geriatric Society.

In her spare time, Dr. Roles enjoys reading a good science fiction or fantasy novel and spending time with her golden doodle, Samwise, named after The Lord of the Rings character, and her cat, Na'Vi, who is named for the blue people from Avatar. The doctor said that she is fascinated by evolutionary biology, is building her own tiny collection of dinosaur fossils; and hopes to one day participate in a real dig.

The doctor would like to thank her parents, Royal and Diane Roles, for all of their support and dedicate this honor to her mentor and high school biology teacher, Mr. Deopke.

For more information, please visit her website at www.tvc.org.

Contact: Katherine Green, 516-825-5634, editorial@continentalwhoswho.com

SOURCE The Inner Circle
FOREST HILLS, N.Y., Aug. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Matthew A. T. Clarke, MD, MBA, is acknowledged as a Top Pinnacle Professional for his contributions to the fields of Occupational and Environmental Medicine.

Dr. Clarke attended Albany Medical College in 1996 where he earned a medical degree. He then attended the Jamaica Hospital Medical Center where he completed his residency in family medicine in 1999 and also finished a residency in preventive medicine at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai in 2008.

The doctor is board certified in family medicine by the American Board of Family Medicine (ABFM) and explained that the ABFM is a non-profit independent medical association of American physicians who practice family medicine and its sub-specialties. Dr. Clarke has worked in private practice in the Forest Hills section of Queens, NY since 2006 and has been in the field since 1999. He explained that family medicine is a medical specialty devoted to comprehensive health care for people of all ages and the specialist is called a family physician or family doctor. A family physician, like Dr. Clarke, is often the first person a patient sees when seeking healthcare services. They examine and treat patients with a wide range of conditions and refer those with serious ailments to a specialist or appropriate facility.

Inspired at a young age to enter the healthcare field because of his ill father, Dr. Clarke asserts that he primarily focuses on patients who are dealing with Workers' Compensation and mentors them on how best to navigate dealing with illness and injuries that keep them from working. The doctor feels his father has been a great influence on his success, always motivating him to achieve his goals.

In addition to his vocation, Dr. Clarke said that he greatly enjoys ministry at his church where he and his wife serve together.

Contact: Katherine Green, 516-825-5634, editorial@continentalwhoswho.com

SOURCE The Inner Circle
LOS ANGELES, Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Double the chocolate and the impact this October with the Otis Spunkmeyer Sweet Discovery Double Chocolate Cookie with Pink Gems. Returning to menus and in-store bakeries across North America for Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the delicious cookies bring a low-labor cause marketing solution, satisfying chocolate cravings and changing the world, one cookie at a time.

We are encouraging operators to support charities of their choice, while raising public awareness for breast cancer. Post this This October, Foodservice Operators and In-Store Bakeries Will Be Pretty, Pink, and Powerful with the Otis Spunkmeyer Sweet Discovery Double Chocolate Cookie with Pink Gems. View PDF Aspire Bakeries sell sheet for Otis Spunkmeyer Sweet Discovery Double Chocolate Cookie with Pink Gems.

Otis Spunkmeyer will donate a minimum of fifty cents from every case sold from now through the end of October to a global-reaching charity focused on Breast Cancer research. In addition, the cookies provide an opportunity for foodservice and in-store bakery operators throughout North America to donate to their own designated local or regional charities.

"All of us have had someone in our lives that has been affected by breast cancer. This is a disease that impacts not only patients, but entire families and communities," said Christine Prociv, Chief Commercial OfficerRetail for Aspire Bakeries, parent company of Otis Spunkmeyer. "With this cookie, we are encouraging in-store bakery and foodservice operators to support charities of their choice, while raising public awareness for breast cancer."

Featuring dark, double chocolate gourmet cookie dough studded both with chips and candy-coated chocolates, the Otis Spunkmeyer Sweet Discovery Double Chocolate Chip Cookie with Pink Gems can simply be baked and served. The company also suggests elevating the cookies with recipe applications designed for year-round celebration that include the Pink S'mores Cookie Sandwich, International Pink Day Cookie, Double Chocolate Raspberry Decadence, and Pink Ribbon.

To order visit: www.otisspunkmeyer.com or call (844) 99-ASPIRE

Otis Spunkmeyer Sweet Discovery Double Chocolate Cookie with Pink Gems

SKU #24197

For More Information:

Kelly Richardson

Venone Public Relations

(707) 479-6882

About Otis Spunkmeyer

Otis Spunkmeyer, an Aspire Bakeries brand and pioneer in the fresh-baked cookie business, has been a leader in the sweet baked goods industry for more than 45 years. Established in California in 1977 as a chain of retail cookie stores, the brand expanded its business to support foodservice operators, introducing a fresh-baked cookie program complete with ovens and merchandising tools. Today, Otis Spunkmeyer continues the legacy, offering the best tasting cookies and baked goods for foodservice, retail, fundraising, convenience stores, and vending. Otis Spunkmeyer remains the #1 foodservice frozen cookie dough brand and continues to deliver fun and quality that is sought after and beloved by consumers.

SOURCE Otis Spunkmeyer
WASHINGTON, Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Treliant, an essential consulting partner to the global financial industry, has named Thomas Ciulla as a Managing Director in the firm's Capital Markets Solutions practice. His appointment reflects Treliant's commitment to assisting banks and capital markets organizations in transformative initiatives to elevate their efficiency and growth.

Thomas has over 25 years of business, operations, and IT experience as a Big 4 partner serving sell-side, buy-side, and industry utility clients across global financial markets. His previous roles include Vice President at Capgemini, where he was responsible for building the firm's capital markets advisory function; Partner in PwC's capital markets advisory and digital transformation practice; and Managing Director at Deloitte, where he specialized in technology transformation, counterparty credit risk, and financial crimes.

"Thomas has a proven track record of driving rapid transformation and delivering significant savings and process efficiencies by optimizing business models and automating solutions for some of the world's largest banking and capital markets organizations," said Paul Walsh, Senior Managing Director, Capital Markets Solutions. "His expertise and collaboration with our clients will help them unlock the transformative potential of today's advanced technologies for their business."

"I think of my role as a digital enablerfirst understanding and defining client needs and then identifying innovative, agile operating models to meet them," Thomas said. "Treliant's strategic focus on business transformation creates the perfect setting for me to help clients innovate."

About Treliant

Treliant is an essential consulting firm serving banks, mortgage originators and servicers, fintechs, and other companies providing financial services globally. We are led by practitioners from the industry and the regulatory community who bring deep domain knowledge to help our clients drive business change and address the most pressing compliance, regulatory, and operational challenges.

We provide data-driven, technology-enabled consulting, implementation, staffing, and managed services solutions to the regulatory compliance, risk, credit, financial crimes, and capital markets functions of our clients.

Founded in 2005, Treliant is headquartered in Washington, DC, with offices across the United States, Europe, and Asia. To learn more visit www.treliant.com.

SOURCE Treliant
Study Identifies Top Five Most Culturally Resonant Brands; Resonance Creates Customers

DALLAS, Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- TMA (The Marketing Arm), which has positioned client brands in culture for the past 30 years, released findings from its first annual Cultural Resonance Score. The score measures both a brand's standing in culture and identifies actions that can be taken to improve a brand's cultural resonance, thereby driving growth.

Last year, brands with the highest Cultural Resonance Score grew 25% more than their competitors Post this Chart 1: The relationship between Cultural Resonance Score and Customer Share Chart 2: Top 5 Most Resonant Brands Among General Population Chart 3: Top 5 Most Resonant Brands Among Gen Z

Cultural resonance surpasses the fleeting nature of cultural relevance and amplifies over time. It describes the relationship between brands and consumers as going beyond the transactional, to having a shared perspective of the world and an understanding of the true value the brand provides. Historically, it's been hard to measure the cultural resonance of a brand, let alone predict the impact resonance may have on growth. Not any longer.

Last year, brands with the highest Cultural Resonance Score grew 25% more than their competitors. In fact, the top three culturally resonant brands in our study grew at twice the rate of their competition. Chart 1 shows the relationship between Cultural Resonance Score and customer share.

"For over 30 years, TMA has been powering brands' resonance across cultural platforms, using every form of content, experience, and partnership," said CEO Trina Roffino. "Our many subject matter experts have uncovered consistent patterns for growing cultural resonance in their domains. With the Cultural Resonance Score, we've built a complement to our qualitative expertise, so we can now measure and monitor the impact of marketing activities on cultural resonance."

Resonance is built not merely through awareness, but through four pillars:

Recognition: Clarity of the brand's role in the consumer's world

Clarity of the brand's role in the consumer's world Alliance: The consumer's alignment to the brand's perspective on the world

The consumer's alignment to the brand's perspective on the world Engagement: Willingness to spend one's most valuable resourcetimewith a brand

Willingness to spend one's most valuable resourcetimewith a brand Advocacy: Active participation within the brand's community, magnifying its message to the world

A brand's Cultural Resonance Score is calculated as an average of the four pillars.

Among the key findings of this report:

1. Amazon, Google and Crayola are the three most resonant brands, followed by Apple and Target, when looking at the total population over age 18 (see Chart 2).

"Crayola surprised us, but it makes sense," said Kathleen Colditz, EVP of Strategy at TMA, who spearheaded the project. "They have endured for generations with an evolving product mix that stays true to the brand's purpose; therefore Recognition and Alliance. And they've invested in experience and influencers, which help lift Engagement and Advocacy. Every marketer should want to dominate their category the way Crayola does."

2. The top brands by pillar are as follows.

RECOGNITION

Disney, Apple, Google, Nike, Chick-Fil-A

ALLIANCE

Crayola, Levi's, Amazon, M&Ms, Google

ENGAGEMENT

Crayola, Lego, Amazon, Google, M&Ms

ADVOCACY

Target, Chick-Fil-A, Crayola, Amazon, Campbell's

The variety indicates that every brandeven those that are already dominant in a pillar or overallhas areas of opportunity.

3. YouTube, Apple, Marvel, Target and Google are the 5 most resonant brands to Gen Z (see Chart 3).

4. The most resonant brands share a combination of:

High recognition

An ability to build an alliance and engagement that yields distinction among their most loyal consumer base

Success in driving engagement beyond shopping

For example, Amazon has grown Prime Day from a set of discounts to a holiday that has reshaped the shopping calendar. Apple's developer conference has become live info-tainment for fans and media worldwide.

5. Chocolate, video games and toys are the top culturally resonant categories, followed closely by e-Commerce retailers (e.g., Amazon, Target) and pet care products. These categories all score in the 90th percentile.

6. Cultural Resonance Score yields insights about specific categories. For example:

Autos: Trucks are more culturally resonant than sedans; Toyota is the most culturally resonant auto brand.

Trucks are more culturally resonant than sedans; Toyota is the most culturally resonant auto brand. Beer: Beer lags tequila and wine; craft beers top traditional brands, with Hop Valley garnering the highest score within the category.

DATA

To develop the Cultural Resonance Score, TMA worked with BERA.ai, which is powered by the world's largest syndicated brand equity data stream. BERA's Brand Intelligence Software automates the real-time collection, analysis, and measurement of 130+ consumer-based metrics across 4,000+ brands in 200+ sectors globally. The TMA Cultural Resonance Score reflects a brand's ability to capture consumers in a category with 85% accuracy.

IMPLICATIONS

Cultural Resonance is achieved when a) audiences have clarity of the brand's point-of-view in the world; b) the point-of-view is meaningful to the audience; c) the audience is so engaged with the brand that they spend time with it; and d) they become brand advocates.

Creating cultural resonance requires commitment, consistency, and empathy. But as the results demonstrate, it's well worth it.

TMA plans to publish its Cultural Resonance Score rankings annually and will also provide and track the performance of its clients. By monitoring these scores, brands can:

Identify areas of weakness/opportunity

Implement strategies and tactics to address those areas

Monitor their brand and competitors' progress over time

For further information and/or to obtain a Cultural Resonance Score, contact Jean Scheidnes at [email protected].

ABOUT TMA (The Marketing Arm)

TMA ( https://www.wearetma.agency ) pushes past relevance to create true cultural resonance for brands. A fully integrated agency with strategic and creative expertise across all forms of content, experience and partnership, TMA is headquartered in Dallas, with offices across the country and staff around the globe. It is a part of Omnicom Group Inc. (NYSE: OMC; www.omnicomgroup.com ), a leading global marketing and corporate communications company.

SOURCE TMA (The Marketing Arm)
RUSTON, La., Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Atlanta-based TMI Holdings announced today it has received all required approvals and has completed its merger with Argent Financial Group, an independent fiduciary wealth management company based in Louisiana. TMI Trust Company will now operate as a wholly owned subsidiary of Argent under its new name Argent Institutional Trust Company.

"We are genuinely excited to join Argent," said TMI Executive Chairman Tony Guthrie. "As I've shared before, this merger provides additional depth in services and resources available for our clients. Also, as we've waited on the necessary approvals, individuals from both TMI and Argent have been working to prepare for our new future together. I've been incredibly pleased and proud of how well our corporate cultures have already begun to dovetail together. It's cliche to say, but this is truly a match made in heaven."

With this transaction, Argent now has responsibility for more than $65 billion in client assets and three million mineral acres, further securing its position as one of the largest independent fiduciary wealth management firms in the southern United States.

"We are pleased to move forward with TMI joining Argent," said Argent Financial Group CEO Kyle McDonald. "The addition of TMI's broad institutional capabilities and expertise to our already strong slate of wealth management services further strengthens and deepens the numerous ways in which we can serve the custody, investing and planning needs of all manner of investors, from individuals and families to large private, public, and non-profit organizations.

As previously announced, Guthrie joins Argent Financial Group as president, remaining executive chairman of Argent Institutional Trust Company. Chris Teevan, TMI's chief operating officer, has been named Argent's chief operating officer. TMI's chief strategy officer, Chris Pitrof, has been named Argent's chief strategy officer. Management of Argent Institutional Trust Company and its operating businesses remains fully in place post-merger under the leadership of TMI Trust CEO Steve Eason.

Argent Financial Group, Inc. and TMI Holdings, Inc. were advised by Berkshire Global Advisors. Berkshire provided advisory services to the Board of Directors of Argent Financial and advisory services and a fairness opinion to the Board of Directors of TMI Holdings.

The law firm of Baker, Donelson, Bearman, Caldwell & Berkowitz, PC served as legal advisor for Argent Financial Group.

Fenimore Kay Harrison LLP served as legal counsel to TMI Holdings.

About Argent Financial Group

Argent Financial Group (Argent) is a leading, independent, fiduciary wealth management firm. Now responsible for more than $65 billion in client assets, Argent provides individuals, families, businesses, and institutions with a broad range of wealth management services, including trusts and estate planning, investment management, retirement plan consulting and administration, ESOPs, funeral and cemetery trusts, charitable organization administration, oil and gas (mineral) management and other unique financial services. Headquartered in Ruston, Louisiana, Argent was formed in 1990 and traces its roots back to 1930. For more information, visit www.ArgentFinancial.com.

About TMI Trust Company

TMI Trust Company was founded in 1954 as a Texas chartered trust company and is now headquartered in Tampa, FL as a Florida trust company. Since its inception, TMI Trust has grown into a full-service provider of trust and agency services. Through its offices located in Tampa (FL), Atlanta (GA), Fort Worth (TX), Milwaukee (WI) and New York City (NY) TMI Trust delivers exceptional client care across four primary service categories: trustee, escrow, and loan agency; IRA and custody; family office and investment partnerships; and specialized trust services.

About Salem Trust Company

Salem Trust Company is a division of TMI Trust Company. With $12 billion in assets under custody, Salem Trust provides custody services as its primary line of business for government sector retirement plans and institutional clients. Salem Trust has been devoted to service excellence since its founding in 1998. Through An Authentic Difference, clients experience securities settlement, safekeeping, record-keeping, and reporting services that are direct and personalized from experienced professionals.

SOURCE Argent Financial Group, Inc
Laman Ismayilova

Shahmar Alakbarov is one of the most prominent figures in Azerbaijani cinema, known for his remarkable contributions. His work has helped to shape and define the country's film industry.

Alakbarov's extensive knowledge and brilliant acting skills made him a beloved actor for cinema lovers.

Shahmar Alakbarliov showed himself as a talented actor and director at the AzerbaijanFilm studio.

His most popular roles were Gazanfar ("My Seven Sons"), Iman ("The Last Pass"), Arif ("Life Tests Us"), Azad ("Winds Blow in Baku"), Gatyr Mammad ("Avenger from Ganjabasar"), Javidan ("Babek"), Ibrahim ("Time to Saddle Horses") and others.

In 1987 Shahmar Alakbarov together with Gulbeniz Azimzadeh produced his first movie "Exam". He also directed such films as "Gazelkhan" and "Night without Edge".

The film "Gazelkhan" was his third and one of the most beloved films. Unfortunately, while shooting the film Shahmar's health was getting worse and he could not see this film on the screen.

Shahmar Alakbarov also performed as a radio broadcaster, and his first radio broadcasting was "Ulduz". Furthermore, he started working in M?lla Nasreddin Radio as a broadcaster.

Alakbarov's tireless efforts to promote Azerbaijani cinema did not go unnoticed.

Shahmar Alakbarov got the name both of People's Artist and Honored Artist. He also received the Laureate of State Price of Azerbaijan USSR.

Cultural and public figures, Alakbarov's family and friends have paid tribute to the acclaimed actor and director, who would have turned eighty this year.

Deputy Culture Minister Murad Huseynov noted that despite the fact that 31 years have passed since the death of a remarkable actor, his legacy continues to live on.

People's Artists Vagif Mustafayev, Hamida Omarova, Ogtay Mir-Gasim and many others also shared their memories of Shahmar Alakbarov, noting that his name has been inscribed in the history of the national cinema.

Nizami Cinema Center will host an event dedicated to Alakbarov's 80th anniversary.

The evening will be held with the support of the Culture Ministry and with the participation of the State Film Fund.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, August 29. In accordance with the program of bilateral military cooperation between the Ministries of Defense of Azerbaijan and the Federal Republic of Germany, servicemen of the Azerbaijani Army took part in discussions on "Expert talks in the field of medicine" held in Germany, Trend reports referring to the Azerbaijani Defense Ministry.

In accordance with the military cooperation program between the Ministry of Defense of the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Federal Ministry of Defense of the Federal Republic of Germany, Azerbaijani and German servicemen participated in the discussions on the topic "Expert Talks in medical contexts" held in Germany.

A detailed exchange of views on a number of issues of interest took place in the course of the visit, aimed at the mutual exchange of experience and study of advanced methods in the field of military medicine.

Earlier on August 25, in accordance with the Annual Action Plan approved by the Minister of Defense, a familiarization visit to the military unit of the Air Force was organized for military attaches of foreign countries accredited in Azerbaijan.

The representatives of the military attaches apparatus of 22 states were given a briefing about the military unit, videos overviewing the implementation of UAVs during the Patriotic War were shown then their questions were answered.

As part of the visit, the guests were shown some unmanned aerial vehicles that are in the arsenal of the Azerbaijan Army and were informed about their tactical and technical characteristics.
Oak Ridge, Tennessee homeless assistance group wants to share their model with other communities as a solution to the challenges housing advocates face

OAK RIDGE, Tenn., Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- In an effort to quickly provide permanent housing to homeless families in Anderson County, the Tennessee Out-Reach Center for Homeless (TORCH) has developed a unique path using the Housing First concept to get families off the street by providing a more streamlined approach.

Tennessee Out-Reach Center for Homeless (TORCH) shares its unique approach to quickly getting homeless families off the street with other communities who face similar housing challenges.

TORCH's model places an emphasis on families with children and secures non-congregate shelters by placing these families into single-family housing that the non-profit owns. The Oak Ridge Housing Authority (ORHA) manages these facilities on TORCH's behalf, which then allows TORCH case managers to devote more time to helping families find the assistance they need to secure permanent housing.

"Our motto is that 'no child sleeps outside.' It's been our vision that a child who is homeless may never even know they were homeless in the first place," said TORCH Executive Director Andy O'Quinn. "There are very few places for families with children to go to when they become homeless. We challenged our community in Anderson County to help us provide something for these families and they delivered."

Using a model based upon the Housing First concept, TORCH identifies those who need immediate help and provides them with temporary, non-congregate housing for a shorter time period than most traditional systems use.

TORCH owns two temporary housing units called Agape House and Bookhart Village where they can house up to nine families temporarily. ORHA oversees these properties by securing rental agreements, conducting monthly inspections and ensuring that the clients keep the units clean and in good shape for future residents.

In most systems, homeless families are placed in an emergency shelter where they live until temporary housing becomes available. Families then live in the temporary housing for up to two years before they move into a permanent residence of their own.

However, since there is no emergency shelter in Anderson County, homeless families had to go to a shelter in Knox County or be placed in another type of communal living facility. TORCH's new model bypasses the need for a congregate shelter, and most of TORCH's families stay in the non-congregate unit for about six months. TORCH uses the waiting list for public housing as their measure for how long a family can stay in one of their units.

ORHA Executive Director Maria Catron said this program is like nothing she has seen in her more than 20 years of working with housing authorities throughout the Southeast.

"We're able to work together to get families out of the elements and into a non-congregate home immediately," Catron said. "TORCH identifies these families and provides ongoing case management while we provide the property management services for their housing units. They are allowed to do what they do best, and we are able to do what we do best."

She said that since ORHA maintains the properties, their team develops a personal relationship with the resident families and that bond continues as the families move into long-term public housing. TORCH and ORHA work seamlessly to ensure families are identified, placed into the non-congregate housing units and that the units are properly maintained.

TORCH's work with the ORHA is so successful, they believe other communities could duplicate the concept to allow the homeless to "Shelter in a Future Home."

"It's our moral responsibility to take care of the homeless," said Sheila Michel, founder of TORCH. "Areas like Anderson County and other smaller communities find it difficult to provide emergency shelters for families who find themselves homeless. This program bypasses that need while still helping homeless families get off the streets. We have had such success with this model that we want to share it with other housing authorities and homeless advocacy groups across the nation."

For more information on TORCH, please visit https://oakridgetorch.org/.

To donate to TORCH, please visit https://oakridgetorch.org/donate/.

About TORCH

Tennessee Out-Reach Center for Homeless (TORCH) opened its doors in January 2013 as the only comprehensive homeless service in Anderson County, Tennessee. Because there is no shelter in the county, TORCH operates the Housing First model. Efforts are made to find affordable, sustainable housing as quickly as possible and can help provide additional financial assistance if a client is qualified. TORCH partners with other agencies in Anderson County to work together to assist their clients in the most efficient, productive manner. TORCH is Lighting a Path to a Brighter Tomorrow. For more information, please visit https://oakridgetorch.org/.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Heather Ripley

Ripley PR

865-977-1973

[email protected]

SOURCE Tennessee Out-Reach Center for Homeless
WASHINGTON, Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) expects to screen more than 14 million passengers during the Labor Day holiday weekend from Sept. 1, 2023 through Sept. 6, 2023. The busiest day is projected to be Sept. 1, 2023, when TSA expects to screen over 2.7 million travelers passing through security checkpoints.

The agency has screened about 227.5 million passengers since Memorial Day weekend, an average of 2.5 million per day. Travel volumes during this summer travel period are higher than 2019 during the same summer travel period, marking the busiest summer travel period on record.

"We anticipate this Labor Day holiday weekend will be busy, with passenger volumes nearly 11% higher than last yearvolumes that already exceeded 2019 Labor Day holiday travel volumes," said TSA Administrator David Pekoske. "We are prepared for the increase in travel volumes and are working closely with our airline and airport partners to make sure we are maintaining our wait time standards of 30 minutes and under for standard screening lanes, and 10 minutes and under for TSA PreCheck lanes. There are occasions where wait times may be longer, so we encourage you to arrive early, pack your patience and reach out to us before arriving to the airport if you have any questions on our security procedures or items you may bring. I applaud our frontline employees who have done an excellent job throughout the busy travel season to facilitate secure travel for millions of passengers, all while we continue to deploy new checkpoint technology that enhances security effectiveness, efficiency and the passenger experience."

Here are some valuable, family-friendly travel tips to know before you go:

Arrive early. The airport will be busy, especially this Friday, so arrive two hours prior to your scheduled flight to allow for adequate time to park your car or arrive via public transit or rideshare, check bags and go through security screening before arriving at the departure gate.

Unpack before you pack. Start packing with a bag that is already empty. Unzip every compartment. Prior to packing that empty bag, check TSA's "What Can I Bring?" tool to know what is prohibited and permitted in your carry-on, and what must go in your checked bag. Know what is in each family member's carry-on and personal item to ensure there are no prohibited items inside. If your children are packing their own bags, make sure they are not packing anything that is or may resemble a prohibited item. Water guns or any other replica weapons are not allowed to fly in your carry-on bag. Firearms are allowed in checked baggage when unloaded, declared with the airlines and stored properly. Firearms are not allowed at the security checkpoint, secure areas of the airport, or onboard aircraft.

Respect TSA and other frontline airport and airline employees. Violence and unruly behavior in the nation's transportation systems are not acceptable and will cause delays for passengers. Transportation Security Officers (TSOs), along with all frontline airport and airline employees and local law enforcement are all working together to ensure safe and secure travel. Assaulting a TSO is a federal offense and will result in penalties and/or arrest. Always follow the directions of flight attendants aboard aircraft. They are there for your safety and security.



Know TSA's liquids rule and avoid a bag check. Know the 3-1-1 liquids rule. Pack liquids, gels and aerosols larger than 3.4 ounces in a checked bag to avoid having a carry-on bag pulled aside and opened by a TSO. The most common mistake travelers make when appearing at the checkpoint is having a large liquid container in their carry-on bag. If you are traveling with an infant, most items in your diaper bag are actually exempt from TSA's liquids rule. Breast milk, powdered formula, baby food and snacks, bottles and sippy cups are all allowed to fly. This also goes for liquid and cream medications. Please separate these items from your bag and place them into a different bin for X-ray screening. If your item alarms, additional screening may be required.

Car seats, strollers and pet carriers. Be sure to contact your airline before your flight. You will want to make sure your car seat, stroller or pet carrier is able to fly with you. Please remove children from strollers and car seats before going through screening. Follow officer instruction regarding pets and never send them through the X-ray machine. Be sure to remove any loose items and place them in a bin or on the X-ray belt for screening. Collapse or fold large items and submit them to the X-ray machine. If your item is too large to be screened via X-ray, then it will have to undergo a visual and physical inspection by a TSO. We do not want to see you struggle, so if you need help, all you have to do is ask. An officer is always available to lend a helping hand.



Have acceptable ID out and ready. Adult passengers 18 years and older must show valid identification at the airport checkpoint in order to travel. To strengthen identity verification, TSA has been deploying Credential Authentication Technology (CAT) units to confirm the authenticity of a passenger's identification credential, flight details and screening status  without having to scan a boarding pass. With CAT, passengers only need to provide their acceptable photo identification to the TSO.

Be aware of new checkpoint screening technology. TSA uses a variety of security methods and technologies to secure our transportation systems. Screening protocols can be unpredictable and may vary from airport to airport depending on available technology and the current threat environment. Some airports have installed new state-of-the-art Computed Tomography (CT) scanners which significantly improve threat detection capabilities for carry-on bags and reduce physical searches of bag contents for prohibited items. CT units give TSOs the ability to review 3D images of passengers' bags and reduce physical searches of bag contents for prohibited items. Passengers screened in security lanes with CT units do not need to remove their 3-1-1 liquids or laptops, but they must place every carry-on item, including bags, into a bin for screening.

Just @AskTSA. If you have a question about the security screening process, just ask us! TSA is active on most social media platforms where travelers may send their questions. Tweet @AskTSA or send a Facebook message to AskTSA. Engage with our virtual assistant instantly or text directly with an AskTSA team member in real-time from 8 a.m.  6 p.m. Eastern, 365 days a year at TRAVEL or 275-872. TSA's social media accounts provide helpful security tips and guidanceoften in a humorous way, so please follow us on Instagram, X (formerly Twitter) and Facebook. You may also contact TSA by calling (866) 289-9673 for automated information anytime or for a representative 8 a.m.  11 p.m. ET weekdays and 9 a.m.  8 p.m. ET weekends/holidays.



Request Special Assistance. Contact TSA Cares 72 hours prior to traveling if you or someone you're traveling with requires special accommodations during the airport security screening process. TSA Cares is a helpline to assist travelers with disabilities and medical conditions. TSA Cares may be reached online at http://www.tsa.gov/contact-center/form/cares or by phone at (855) 787-2227 or federal relay 711. If you're already at the airport, inform the TSO if a child or family member has a disability, medical condition or medical device, and advise the officer of the best way to relieve any concerns during the screening process. Parents may carry their child through screening to ease the screening process. The TSO will not remove a child from his/her mobility aid, wheelchair or scooter.

Travel with ease with TSA PreCheck and ensure you have the TSA PreCheck mark on your boarding pass. Our trusted traveler program now has 90 participating airlines, is available at over 200 airports and has two authorized enrollment providers. Most applicants get a Known Traveler Number (KTN) within 3-5 days and 99% of members wait 10 minutes or less in a screening lane. TSA PreCheck passengers travel with ease and keep their shoes, belts and light jackets on and keep laptops, 3-1-1 liquids and food items in their bags. If you already have TSA PreCheck, your kids 12 and under may join you in the TSA PreCheck screening lane. Children 13-17 may join enrolled adults in the dedicated lanes when traveling on the same reservation and if the TSA PreCheck indicator appears on the child's boarding pass. TSA PreCheck passengers must ensure that their KTN along with correct date of birth is in their airline reservation.

NOTE: Given airport and airline preparations in advance of Hurricane Idalia's landfall, it is important that passengers monitor for weather impacts on their travel plans. Be storm ready, visit Ready.gov to make your plan today.

SOURCE Transportation Security Administration
COLLEGE PARK, Md., Aug. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- A July tornado that tore across the Rocky Mount, N.C., region left severe damage including to a Pfizer facility. Amid subsequent supply chain disruption, the manufacturer alerted hospitals to a list of 12 drugs available only through emergency orders "due to their high medical need," effective "immediately and until further notice." The disruption further prompted action from risk management expert Clifford Rossi and students in the Master of Quantitative Finance (MQF) program at the University of Maryland's Robert H. Smith School of Business.

They produced a risk assessment database covering 6,000-plus manufacturing -- pharmaceutical and other -- facilities registered with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Their findings show tornadoes as the third biggest exposure for these facilities, with riverine flooding another significant risk -- more than hurricanes, coastal flooding and wildfires.

"Extreme weather events and increased concerns over climate change further pressure already-strained drug supply chains and pose significant risk not only to the manufacturers, but also to insurers and end-users such as patients and consumers," says Rossi, professor of the practice, executive-in-residence and director of the Smith Enterprise Risk Consortium. "Having the ability to know where potential hazard risk exists can be of enormous value to drug manufacturers in deciding where to locate plants as well as to harden them against these hazards."

Rossi, with Smith MQF students Matthew Rumrill and Harini Mantripragada, analyzed the domestic drug manufacturing sites via the FDA's Drug Establishments Registration Site database in conjunction with data from FEMA's National Risk Index. The latter includes risk ratings for 18 different natural hazards and assigns an overall risk rating for each census tract and county in the United States.

Some notable takeaways, Rossi says, are:

the natural hazards with the largest number of sites in high-risk areas, in order, are "lightning," "winter weather," "tornado," "strong wind" and "ice storm;"

about 42 percent of the total 6,024 FDA-registered manufacturing facilities including the pharma facilities (with operations including packaging, labeling and analysis) are in high-risk areas for tornadoes;

by contrast, hurricane risk, is well down the list of the 18 hazards affecting the facilities, with just 11 percent of all sites in high-risk hurricane areas;

riverine and coastal flooding came in at 31 percent and 6 percent, respectively, in terms of the percentage of the manufacturing facilities in high-risk flooding areas;

nearly 17 percent of the facilities are in high-risk wildfire areas; and

states with the highest-risk exposure to natural hazards are California , Florida and Texas . In California , about 95% of pharma plants are located in relatively-to-very high hazard areas across all hazard types.

"The assessment's implications are critical to maintaining a continuous supply of drugs across the U.S.," Rossi says. "The work also illustrates Smith students  in this case Matt and Harini -- producing analysis that's real-time and impactful to markets."

Read more about the Smith Enterprise Risk Consortium and Smith's Business Master's Programs.

About the University of Maryland's Robert H. Smith School of Business

The Robert H. Smith School of Business is an internationally recognized leader in management education and research. One of 12 colleges and schools at the University of Maryland, College Park, the Smith School offers undergraduate, full-time and flex MBA, executive MBA, online MBA, business master's, PhD and executive education programs, as well as outreach services to the corporate community. The school offers its degree, custom and certification programs in learning locations in North America and Asia.

Media Contact:

Greg Muraski

[email protected]

SOURCE University of Maryland's Robert H. Smith School of Business
DALLAS, Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Bedsore.Law, a national law firm specializing in nursing home abuse and bedsores, is at the forefront of addressing transparency challenges within the nursing home industry. A recent article by Bloomberg Law, "Nursing Homes' Ownership Web Spotlights Accountability Limits," features insightful commentary from Ernie Tosh, co-founder of Bedsore.Law. The article delves into the complexities of nursing home ownership structures, shedding light on the hurdles faced by legal professionals in securing justice for abused and neglected residents.

In an analogy that captures the essence of the issue, Tosh notes, "You see the suction cups and figure it has to be a cephalopod. But I don't know if it's an octopus. Is it a cuttlefish? Is it a squid? I don't know. You can't tell. You can't see enough." The metaphor underscores the challenge of identifying responsible parties due to obscured ownership layers.

Bedsore.Law Co-Founder Ernie Tosh Discusses Nursing Home Abuse and Transparency Post this

With extensive experience in nursing home abuse litigation, Ernie Tosh emphasizes that the lack of transparency in nursing home financial reports, particularly concerning profits, ownership, and transactions with "related parties," creates a significant barrier to accountability. This lack of clarity hampers legal actions against those responsible for neglect and abuse, making it challenging for attorneys to build robust cases.

Tosh highlights that nursing home ownership often involves intricate networks of shell companies, intentionally designed to shield assets and obscure accountability. This deliberate opacity, as Tosh points out, is "a problem for every lawyer who does this kind of work on the plaintiff side." Uncovering the layers and holding responsible parties accountable for their actions is difficult under the status quo of nursing home reporting requirements.

The article discusses the proposed rule by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) aimed at enhancing transparency. This rule requires nursing homes to publicly disclose individuals or entities with control over a facility, including private equity investors and real estate investment trusts (REITs). Tosh, while acknowledging this step as "progress in the right direction," highlights that more comprehensive measures are needed to unveil the intricate web of ownership.

Ernie Tosh's insights echo Bedsore.Law's commitment to advocating for nursing home residents' rights and pursuing accountability for those who suffer due to neglect and abuse. With an unwavering dedication to justice, Bedsore.Law continues to provide comprehensive legal representation to victims and their families nationwide, while also contributing to critical discussions surrounding industry accountability.

As a recognized authority in nursing home abuse litigation, Ernie Tosh travels the country, engaging with attorneys, state officials, and lawmakers to underscore the importance of ownership transparency. Tosh's advocacy extends beyond legal proceedings, as he emphasizes the need for state and federal actions to ensure proper accountability in the nursing home industry.

Bedsore.Law remains steadfast in its pursuit of justice, aiming to navigate the complexities of nursing home ownership structures and advocating for change that upholds the rights and wellbeing of vulnerable residents.

For media inquiries and interviews with Ernie Tosh, please contact:

[Jeff Aidikoff]

[[email protected]]

[424-600-2004]

About Bedsore.Law:

Bedsore.Law is one of the leading legal firms specializing in nursing home abuse cases nationwide. With a commitment to justice and accountability, the firm strives to empower victims and their families by providing comprehensive legal representation. Along with over 25 years of experience practicing law, Co-founder Ernie Tosh works with legislators around the country to increase transparency and accountability in the nursing home industry.

SOURCE Bedsore.Law
AUSTIN, Texas, Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Upgraded Points is looking for a candidate destined for luxury in their latest contest. The 'Get Paid To Upgrade Your Flying Experience' contest will reward one lucky winner with $1,500 to upgrade their flight to first class and detail their experience.

"We want consumers to experience what domestic first class feels like without cost as a barrier," said Alex Miller, Founder of Upgraded Points. "With Labor Day coming up and the holiday season to follow, people may have already started planning trips and we want to give someone the chance to experience first class."

Those that have flown economy know how it feels to walk past the mystery first class passengers made of money when boarding the flight, wondering how many glasses of champagne they will have or how much they will stretch with all of their extra leg room. To those that understand the feeling, set down the tote and pick up a designer bag because it is time to live the first class fantasy. Enjoy the opportunity to board early and store your carry-ons where you please. Relish in the special treatment from a designated flight attendant and much comfier seating arrangements.

Sound like something you could get behind? The first class experience awaits the contestant with the best entry. After your trip, help Upgraded Points determine if the first class life is worth the hype. Read more for contest information.

Contest Eligibility

To ensure an unbiased and unique experience, Upgraded Points is searching for candidates that have never flown first class before. However, prior flight experience is not required. This is the perfect chance to fulfill a dream and finally get a taste of what it is like to live like a celebrity.

If chosen, the contestant must complete a round-trip U.S. domestic flight, including both the departure and return flights, before December 31, 2023. Upon completion, the winner will be requested to fill out a scorecard about their first class experience. This means the prize money may go towards a flight to visit family or friends for the holidays as long as the return flight occurs before the end of the year. With the flight price spikes that happen around that time every year, there's not a better time to get paid to fly!

Applicants must be 18 years or older and a U.S. citizen or permanent resident to apply. Disregarding any of these requirements is grounds for immediate disqualification.

How to Apply

Those interested in entering the contest must fill out the form found on the Upgraded Points website to be considered for the prize. The application will ask a few questions about flight experiences, what trip the prize would go towards, as well as reasons why the contestant should be selected. All fields must be filled out completely.

Friday, October 6th at 11:59 PM ET is the deadline for contest entries. After that date, no further applications will be accepted to enter the candidate pool. Please note that only candidates who fill out the form below and submit it before the deadline will be considered to win this contest.

The Prize

The contest winner will win a $1,500 cash prize to be primarily used towards upgrading a flight to first class. The prize amount was determined by the average cost of first class domestic round-trip flight prices and holiday price fluctuations.

Any leftover money may be used for other travel expenses as needed. Please note that the prize consists solely of $1,500 cash and travel accommodations are not included in the prize. Additionally, the winner will need to cover any first class flight ticket costs that exceed $1,500.

The winner will be announced by Friday, October 20, 2023, and will receive a $1,500 payment.

About Upgraded Points

Headquartered in Austin, Texas, Upgraded Points is a travel company that helps to demystify the complex world of travel and credit cards. Launched in 2016 by Alex Miller, Upgraded Points uses targeted research efforts and in-depth studies to help travelers maximize their travel, points, and experiences. Learn more at: UpgradedPoints.com .

Media Contact:

Alex Miller, Founder

1-214-646-8866

SOURCE Upgraded Points
HOUSTON, Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Veriforce, the industry's fastest-growing supply chain risk and compliance management solutions provider, is pleased to announce its newest partner, WithU, a prominent wellness app company. This partnership gives Veriforce customers access to the WithU wellness app, at an exclusive rate, empowering their employees to prioritize health and wellness in their everyday lives.

In today's fast-paced and demanding work environment, the importance of incorporating health and wellness practices cannot be overstated. Studies have shown that the well-being of employees directly impacts their productivity and overall performance. According to a recent study conducted with 1,600 U.S. workers and HR leaders, a staggering 64% of workers reported struggling with mental or behavioral health issues, resulting in a significant decrease in productivity for 91% of respondents (HR Daily Advisor).

"At Veriforce, we understand that a healthy workforce is a productive workforce," said Colby Lane, CEO at Veriforce. Post this

Recognizing the need to support psychological health and safety, Veriforce has partnered with WithU to offer an innovative solution to members of the Veriforce Network. "By leveraging the Veriforce-WithU partnership, Veriforce customers gain access to a wide range of wellness resources, including personalized fitness plans, mental health support, nutrition guidance, and stress management techniques," said Kate Backhouse, Head of Global Partnerships at WithU. "The app's user-friendly interface and intuitive features ensure that employees can easily navigate and find the information and workouts that suit their abilities and time constraints."

And with an exclusive group offer, businesses don't have to break the bank to provide this effective tool. "At Veriforce, we understand that a healthy workforce is a productive workforce," said Colby Lane, CEO at Veriforce. "Our partnership with WithU allows us to go beyond traditional compliance management and empower our customers to prioritize the well-being of their employees. By providing group access to the WithU wellness app, we aim to support our customers in creating a workplace environment that fosters holistic wellness and increased productivity."

For more information about this exclusive offer, visit veriforcenetwork.com/withu. To learn more about the WithU wellness app, please visit withutraining.com.

About Veriforce

Veriforce is a recognized leader in delivering comprehensive, integrated supply chain risk management solutions that help bring workers home safely and optimize business performance. The company's SaaS safety and compliance platform, data integrity and verification practices, and standardized safety training programs empower leading organizations to drive safety and compliance into their supply chains and down to the worker level.

As the world's largest supply chain risk management network, Veriforce partners with over 3,200 hiring companies in over 130 countries, serving more than 80,000 contractors, over 7,000 authorized instructors and evaluators, and millions of individual workers. This network makes Veriforce the preferred partner for companies that strive to ensure a safe, qualified third-party workforce. Company offices are in the U.S., Canada, South Africa, the U.K., and Australia. For more information, visit veriforce.com.

About WithU:

Launching in 2020, WithU is an award-winning fitness app that motivates members to prioritize their well-being. The app's world-class coaching supports everybody, from those lacking the motivation to start their fitness journey to those looking for inspiration to maintain one. Founded in London by Steve Clarke, Tech Entrepreneur, Tim Benjamin, British Olympian, and Kaleigh Scott, ex-David Beckham Ventures, WithU now has hundreds of thousands of members globally.

SOURCE Veriforce, LLC
The leading retailer will display GPHG 2023 category nominees at their SoHo Flagship from October 18th through October 21st

NEW YORK, Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Following their first-of-its kind exhibition of the 2022 GPHG winners, Watches of Switzerland is honored to announce an extension of their exclusive North American partnership with the Grand Prix D'Horlogerie de Geneve (GPHG). Founded in 2001, the GPHG is overseen by the Canton and City of Geneva and was created with the purpose of highlighting and awarding the most remarkable contemporary horological creations. With the intention of promoting the art of watchmaking worldwide and ahead of its annual November award ceremony, often affectionately referred to as the "Oscars" of the watch industry, the GPHG will honor this year's nominees with a world-wide exhibition that will make stops in New York City, Macao, Hong Kong, Kuala Lumpur, Geneva, Dubai, and Zurich. In partnership with Watches of Switzerland, the 2023 GPHG nominees' world exhibition will make a stop in New York City, exclusively on display in North America at the leading retailer's SoHo flagship.

Watches of Switzerland SoHo Flagship

"Since we opened our SoHo flagship in 2018, Watches of Switzerland has made it our mission to not only be a leading retail destination but to also be a place of discovery and education for the United States watch community," says David Hurley, Watches of Switzerland Group Deputy CEO. He continues, "We are honored to expand our partnership with the prestigious GPHG organization and help spotlight a wider representation of this year's top feats in watchmaking. We look forward to welcoming long-time clients and first-time watch enthusiasts alike to visit our public exhibition of the 2023 GPHG nominees."

As an extension of their partnership with the GPHG, Watches of Switzerland will host the world's exclusive North American exhibition of nominees from all 15 categories of the 2023 GPHG awards. In an effort to continue to expand and foster the United States watch community, Watches of Switzerland's exhibition will be open to the public from Wednesday, October 18th through Saturday, October 21st at their SoHo, New York flagship. This will be the first exhibition of the GPHG 2023 nominees and only public access to the collection of esteemed and prestigious horological pieces in North America, following the announcement ceremony, on August 30th.

www.watchesofswitzerland.com

October 18th  October 21st

Watches of Switzerland SoHo

60 Greene Street

Appointments Encouraged

For Media Inquires

Battalion PR

Robbie Cantonwine: +1 619 964 6549 / [email protected]

Jim Kloiber +1 646 361 2351 / [email protected]

About the Watches of Switzerland Group

The Watches of Switzerland Group is the UK's largest luxury watch retailer, operating in the UK, US and Europe comprising five prestigious brands; Watches of Switzerland (UK and US), Mappin & Webb (UK), Goldsmiths (UK), Mayors (US) and Betteridge (US), with a complementary jewellery offering.

As at 30 July 2023, the Watches of Switzerland Group had 202 showrooms across the UK, US and Europe including 87 dedicated mono-brand boutiques in partnership with Rolex, OMEGA, TAG Heuer, Breitling, TUDOR, Audemars Piguet, Grand Seiko, BVLGARI and FOPE and has a leading presence in Heathrow Airport with representation in Terminals 2, 3, 4 and 5 as well as seven retail websites.

The Watches of Switzerland Group is proud to be the UK's largest retailer for Rolex, OMEGA, Cartier, TAG Heuer and Breitling watches.

SOURCE Watches of Switzerland
VERO BEACH, Fla., Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Watercrest Senior Living Group proudly announces that the leadership team of Market Street Memory Care Residence Palm Coast has reached the outstanding achievement of 100% occupancy in their award-winning senior living community in Palm Coast, Florida.

"Reaching 100% occupancy is a testament to our Market Street team's excellence in servant leadership, dedication, and commitment to honoring their residents and their community with joy, compassion, and respect," says Marc Vorkapich, Principal and CEO of Watercrest Senior Living Group.

Market Street Memory Care Residence associates, residents and families gathered with Watercrest Senior Living executive leadership to celebrate the team's achievement of reaching 100% resident occupancy.

Market Street Palm Coast was prestigiously recognized by U.S. News & World Report as a 2022-23 Best Memory Care Community. U.S. News awards the designation of Best Senior Living only to those communities that achieved the highest possible rating for Memory Care.

"We are overjoyed to celebrate the success of filling our community, a milestone which is only achieved with the camaraderie of a team dedicated to creating an exceptional environment that honors our seniors with care and respect," says Danielle Potter, Executive Director of Market Street Palm Coast. "We are grateful for each and every one of our Market Street and Watercrest team members for their contributions to our collaborative success."

Market Street Memory Care Residence Palm Coast is an award-winning senior living community operated by Watercrest Senior Living. The community offers world class care, multi-sensory programming, diverse culinary experiences, and unparalleled associate training honoring seniors with Alzheimer's and dementia. The community is conveniently located at 2 Corporate Drive in Palm Coast, Fla. For information, please contact the community at 386-388-7495.

About Watercrest Senior Living Group

Watercrest Senior Living Group was founded to honor our mothers and fathers, aspiring to become a beacon for quality in senior living by surpassing standards of care, service and associate training. Watercrest senior living communities are recognized for their luxury aesthetic, exceptional amenities, world-class care, and innovative memory care programming offering unparalleled service to seniors living with Alzheimer's and dementia. A six-time certified Great Place to Work, Watercrest Senior Living Group specializes in the development and operations management of assisted living and memory care communities and the growth of servant leaders. For information, visit www.watercrestseniorliving.com.

SOURCE Watercrest Senior Living Group
Inaugural board members include leaders at Bank of America, BNY Mellon, Merck, Morgan Stanley, Salesforce, United, and Zurich North America

BOSTON, Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The national workforce development organization Year Up announced today the launch of its Client Advisory Board (CAB) to further increase access to meaningful careers for young adults without bachelor's degrees.

Led by Morris Applewhite, National Head of Corporate Engagement at Year Up, the CAB is a group of cross-industry executives at top companies that are committed to advancing skills-first talent practices and strengthening economic mobility. These leading employers hire a significant number of entry- and mid-level talent into high demand roles that pay sustainable living wages.

"This advisory board will enable Year Up to benefit from board members' first-hand knowledge and perspectives on topics such as industry trends, hiring challenges and how Year Up can better tailor its services to employers' needs," said Applewhite. "We are grateful for the inaugural members' insights and expertise, which will allow us to be better positioned to close the Opportunity Divide through greater innovation, connections to new employer partners, and wider recognition of our role as a strategic provider of diverse talent pipelines."

The inaugural members of the CAB are:

Sean Curtis , SVP, Global Regulatory Affairs & Clinical Safety and Quality Assurance at Merck

, SVP, Global Regulatory Affairs & Clinical Safety and Quality Assurance at Merck Hari Gopalkrishnan , CIO, Head of Consumer, Business & Wealth Management Technology team at Bank of America

, CIO, Head of Consumer, Business & Wealth Management Technology team at Bank of America Christie Gragnani-Woods , Head of Talent Acquisition for Regional Banking, Merrill, Private Bank and Community Partnerships at Bank of America

, Head of Talent Acquisition for Regional Banking, Merrill, Private Bank and Community Partnerships at Bank of America Geoff Massam , Managing Director, and Head of Technology at BNY Mellon

, Managing Director, and Head of Technology at BNY Mellon Jessica Muench , Chief Diversity Equity and Inclusion Officer at United

, Chief Diversity Equity and Inclusion Officer at United Darla Pires DeGrace , Executive Director, Head of Diversity Talent Acquisition at Morgan Stanley

, Executive Director, Head of Diversity Talent Acquisition at Morgan Stanley Laura Rock , Chief Human Resources Officer at Zurich North America

, Chief Human Resources Officer at Zurich North America Keith White , Chief Security and Safety at Salesforce

CAB members commit to serve on the board for 24 months and will meet quarterly. During the first meeting, members shared their reasons for joining the board and discussed what they will strive to accomplish. They also heard from Joseph Okoronkwo, a current Year Up intern at Wells Fargo.

Hari Gopalkrishnan at Bank of America and Jessica Muench at United were the first two leaders to join the CAB.

"Reducing the obstacles to skills-based training enables underrepresented populations to secure roles in high demand industries," said Gopalkrishnan. "Bank of America is committed to hiring the most talented and driven individuals representing diverse backgrounds and experiences. Its 15-year relationship with Year Up helps fulfil that commitment by providing an avenue to identify talented people equipped with their comprehensive role-specific training and programming. I am excited to join this advisory board and help Year Up's and their corporate partners' ability to further support bridging the opportunity divide."

"By joining the CAB, my goal is to bring the voice of the corporate customer directly to Year Up and help them further refine their program to amplify their capability to meet real business needs, and in the process enable them to provide meaningful career opportunities to thousands more young adults across the country," said Muench.

In total, the seven companies represented by the CAB members have hosted more than 4,000 Year Up interns and hired nearly 3,000 Year Up graduates to date.

Nationwide, 80 percent of Year Up graduates are employed or attending college within four months of completing the program, with average starting salaries of $52,000/year. In May 2022, the federally-sponsored Pathways for Advancing Careers and Education (PACE) follow-up evaluation of Year Up showed that in the six years post-program, young adults randomly assigned to Year Up earned 30 percent more compared with similar young adults in a control group  the largest impact on earnings reported to date for a workforce program tested in a randomized controlled trial.

About Year Up Inc.

Year Up is a national 501(c)3 workforce development organization committed to ensuring equitable access to economic opportunity, education, and justice for all young adultsno matter their background, income, or zip code. Year Up utilizes a high-expectations, high support model where students learn in-demand technical and professional skills to help them effectively navigate a modern work environment. Year Up has served more than 40,000 young adults across 35 campuses since its founding inp 2000 and has been voted one of the "Best Non-Profits to Work For" by The NonProfit Times. To learn more, visit http://www.yearup.org , and follow us on LinkedIn , Facebook , Instagram , Twitter and TikTok .

SOURCE Year Up
Expanded Market Share to 23.5% with 7.7 Billion Parcels

Grew Adjusted Net Income 43.9% to Reach RMB2.5 Billion

Annual Volume Guidance Reiterated to Grow 20%-24%

SHANGHAI, Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- ZTO Express (Cayman) Inc. (NYSE: ZTO and SEHK: 2057), a leading and fast-growing express delivery company in China ("ZTO" or the "Company"), today announced its unaudited financial results for the second quarter ended June 30, 2023[1]. The Company grew parcel volume by 23.8% year over year and expanded market share to 23.5%. Adjusted net income increased 43.9%[2] to reach RMB2,531.0 million. Cash generated from operating activities was RMB3,761.6 million.

Second Quarter 2023 Financial Highlights

Revenues were RMB9,740.3 million ( US$1,343.3 million ), an increase of 12.5% from RMB8,656.7 million in the same period of 2022.

( ), an increase of 12.5% from in the same period of 2022. Gross profit was RMB3,304.4 million ( US$455.7 million ), an increase of 50.0% from RMB2,202.8 million in the same period of 2022.

( ), an increase of 50.0% from in the same period of 2022. Net income was RMB2,530.2 million ( US$348.9 million ), an increase of 43.9% from RMB1,758.7 million in the same period of 2022.

( ), an increase of 43.9% from in the same period of 2022. Adjusted EBITDA [3] was RMB3,883.9 million ( US$535.6 million ), an increase of 34.3% from RMB2,892.0 million in the same period of 2022.

was ( ), an increase of 34.3% from in the same period of 2022. Adjusted net income was RMB2,531.0 million ( US$349.0 million ), an increase of 43.9% from RMB1,758.7 million in the same period of 2022.

( ), an increase of 43.9% from in the same period of 2022. Basic and diluted net earnings per American depositary share ("ADS" [4] ) were RMB3.14 (US$0.43) and RMB3.07 (US$0.42) , an increase of 40.8% and 37.7% from RMB2.23 and RMB2.23 in the same period of 2022, respectively.

) were and , an increase of 40.8% and 37.7% from and in the same period of 2022, respectively. Adjusted basic and diluted earnings per American depositary share attributable to ordinary shareholders [5] were RMB3.14 (US$0.43) and RMB3.07 (US$0.42) , an increase of 40.8% and 37.7% from RMB2.23 and RMB2.23 in the same period of 2022, respectively.

were and , an increase of 40.8% and 37.7% from and in the same period of 2022, respectively. Net cash provided by operating activities was RMB3,761.6 million ( US$518.8 million ), compared with RMB3,780.8 million in the same period of 2022.

Operational Highlights for Second Quarter 2023

Parcel volume was 7,677 million, an increase of 23.8% from 6,203 million in the same period of 2022.

Number of pickup/delivery outlets was over 31,000 as of June 30, 2023 .

. Number of direct network partners was approximately 6,000 as of June 30, 2023 .

. Number of self-owned line-haul vehicles was over 10,000 as of June 30, 2023 .

. Out of the over 10,000 self-owned trucks, over 9,300 were high capacity 15 to 17-meter-long models as of June 30, 2023 , compared to over 9,250 as of June 30, 2022 .

, compared to over 9,250 as of . Number of line-haul routes between sorting hubs was approximately 3,800 as of June 30, 2023 , compared to approximately 3,700 as of June 30, 2022 .

, compared to approximately 3,700 as of . Number of sorting hubs was 96 as of June 30, 2023 , among which 87 are operated by the Company and 9 by the Company's network partners.

(1) An investor relations presentation accompanies this earnings release and can be found at http://zto.investorroom.com. (2) Adjusted net income is a non-GAAP financial measure, which is defined as net income before share-based compensation expense and non-recurring items such as gain on disposal of equity investment and subsidiary and corresponding tax impact which management aims to better represent the underlying business operations. (3) Adjusted EBITDA is a non-GAAP financial measure, which is defined as net income before depreciation, amortization, interest expenses and income tax expenses, and further adjusted to exclude the shared-based compensation expense and non-recurring items such as the gain on disposal of equity investment and subsidiary which management aims to better represent the underlying business operations. (4) One ADS represents one Class A ordinary share. (5) Adjusted basic and diluted earnings per American depositary share attributable to ordinary shareholders is a non-GAAP financial measure. It is defined as adjusted net income attributable to ordinary shareholders divided by weighted average number of basic and American depositary diluted shares, respectively.



Mr. Meisong Lai, Founder, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of ZTO, commented, "Amidst an overall soft economic environment, we achieved solid performance results in the second quarter. We continued to widen our lead in industry volume, market share and net profit while maintaining high levels of services quality and customer satisfaction. At 23.5% market share for the second quarter, our 7.7 billion parcels brought in 2.5 billion of net income as we firmly execute our consistent corporate strategy and dig deeper on company-wide initiatives that focus on quality of earnings and strength of partner network."

Mr. Lai added, "With near term uncertainties in the marketplace, it is more crucial for us to stay disciplined and stay long-term focused. The nature of our business is not that of a quick sprint, and short-term strategies often generate gains that are not only costly but also unsustainable. Our immediate pricing strategy is either defensive or offensive on a case-by-case basis given strategic considerations. Meanwhile, we are enabling our network partners to direct their financial resources towards ramping up their pickup-delivery capabilities to synch up with our sort-transit network so that the ZTO brand value, particularly associated with timeliness, can be meaningfully differentiated so as to drive long-term pricing power and shareholder value."

Ms. Huiping Yan, Chief Financial Officer of ZTO, commented, "Core express ASP decreased 7.8% as a combined result from mix impact of KA volume decrease, pricing adjustments to attract lighter or smaller packages and volume incentives. Combined unit sorting and transportation cost decreased over 15%, or 12 cents thanks to scale leverage and continued productivity gain through standardization and digitization programs. SG&A as a percentage of revenue remained stable at approximately 5%. Cash flow from operating activities was 3.8 billion, and capital spending outlay was 2.2 billion."

Ms. Yan added, "ZTO is focused on profitable growth and our track records have been consistent in that regards. We have established a clear leadership in all three aspects of our strategic focus, that is, service quality, volume and market share, and net profit. We have strong financial resources, staying power and a healthy partner network. In times of macro-economic uncertainties, and facing digressive competitive behaviors in the industry, we are even more diligent and disciplined to carry out appropriate actions. We are reiterating our 2023 volume growth guidance of 20% to 24%. More importantly, we are keeping our eyes on the future in strengthening long-term competitive edge, because the vast opportunities ahead will favor those who are well-prepared."

Second Quarter 2023 Unaudited Financial Results



Three Months Ended June 30,

Six Months Ended June 30,



2022

2023

2022

2023



RMB



%

RMB

US$

%

RMB



%

RMB

US$

%



( in thousands, except percentages)

Express delivery services 7,931,608



91.6

8,998,444

1,240,942

92.4

15,151,869



91.5

17,387,187

2,397,803

92.9

Freight forwarding services 329,959



3.8

238,872

32,942

2.5

661,044



4.0

431,597

59,520

2.3

Sale of accessories 349,683



4.0

467,778

64,510

4.8

631,754



3.8

836,616

115,375

4.5

Others 45,427



0.6

35,230

4,858

0.3

116,060



0.7

68,163

9,399

0.3

Total revenues 8,656,677



100.0

9,740,324

1,343,252

100.0

16,560,727



100.0

18,723,563

2,582,097

100.0



Total Revenues were RMB9,740.3 million (US$1,343.3 million), an increase of 12.5% from RMB8,656.7 million in the same period of 2022. Revenue from the core express delivery business increased by 14.1% compared to the same period of 2022, as a combined result of a 23.8% increase in parcel volume and a 7.8% decrease in parcel unit price. KA revenue (includes delivery fees) from direct sales organizations, established to serve core express KA customers, decreased 40.1% through either reengagement of partner outlets who can serve just as well or rationalization due to loss-making. Revenue from freight forwarding services decreased by 27.6% compared to the same period of 2022 due to shrinking cross border e-commerce demand and declining pricing. Revenue from sales of accessories, largely consisted of sales of thermal paper used for digital waybills' printing, increased by 33.8% in line with parcel volume growth. Other revenues were mainly derived from financing services.



Three Months Ended June 30,

Six Months Ended June 30,







2022

2023

2022

2023







RMB

% of

RMB

US$



% of

RMB

% of

RMB



US$

% of





revenues



revenues

revenues

revenues





( in thousands, except percentages)





Line-haul













































transportation 3,029,904

35.0

3,199,832

441,277

32.9

5,983,896

36.1

6,381,652



880,070

34.1



cost













Sorting hub 1,891,440

21.8

1,934,666

266,803

19.9

3,771,806

22.8

3,948,037



544,459

21.1



operating cost













Freight 307,005

3.5

222,272

30,653

2.3

614,906

3.7

405,244



55,886

2.2



forwarding cost













Cost of 119,886

1.4

126,700

17,473

1.3

202,789

1.2

234,128



32,288

1.3



accessories sold













Other costs 1,105,620

12.9

952,429

131,345



9.7

2,165,029

13.1

1,926,669



265,699

10.2



Total cost of















































revenues 6,453,855

74.6

6,435,899

887,551



66.1

12,738,426

76.9

12,895,730



1,778,402

68.9





Total cost of revenues was RMB6,435.9 million (US$887.6 million), a decrease of 0.3% from RMB6,453.9 million in the same period last year.

Line haul transportation cost was RMB3,199.8 million (US$441.3 million), an increase of 5.6% from RMB3,029.9 million in the same period last year. The unit transportation cost decreased 14.7% or 7 cents mainly attributable to better economies of scale, optimized line-haul route planning and decreased fuel price. There were approximately 50 more self-owned high-capacity vehicles in operation compared to the same period last year which helped to improve operating efficiencies.

Sorting hub operating cost was RMB1,934.7 million (US$266.8 million), an increase of 2.3% from RMB1,891.4 million in the same period last year. The increase primarily consisted of (i) RMB47.1 million (US$6.5 million) increase in labor-associated costs, a net result of wage increases partially offset by automation-driven efficiency improvement and (ii) RMB35.4 million (US$4.9 million) increase in depreciation and amortization costs associated with automation equipment and other facilities, partially offset by (iii) RMB39.2 million (US$5.4 million) decrease in utilities. With standardization in operating procedures, improved performance evaluation system, the unit sorting cost decreased 17.4% or 5 cents. As of June 30, 2023, 460 sets of automated sorting equipment were in service, compared to 431 sets as of June 30, 2022 which enhanced overall sorting operational efficiencies.

Cost of accessories sold was RMB126.7 million (US$17.5 million), increased 5.7% compared with RMB119.9 million in the same period last year.

Other costs were RMB952.4 million (US$131.3 million), a decrease of 13.9% from RMB1,105.6 million in the same period last year. The decrease mainly consisted of (i) RMB258.2 million (US$35.6 million) decrease in dispatching costs serving enterprise customers, (ii) increase of RMB79.1 million (US$10.9 million) in information technology and related costs, and (iii) increase of RMB23.6 million (US$3.3 million) in Tax surcharge.

Gross Profit was RMB3,304.4 million (US$455.7 million), increased 50.0% from RMB2,202.8 million in the same period last year as a combined result of increased revenues and cost productivity gain. Gross margin rate improved to 33.9% from 25.4% for the same period last year.

Total Operating Expenses were RMB425.7 million (US$58.7 million), compared to RMB217.3 million in the same period last year.

Selling, general and administrative expenses were RMB504.6 million (US$69.6 million), increased by 10.4% from RMB456.9 million in the same period last year, mainly due to the increases of compensation and benefits.

Other operating income, net was RMB79.0 million (US$10.9 million), compared to RMB239.6 million in the same period last year. Other operating income mainly consisted of (i) government subsidies and tax rebates of RMB68.0 million (US$9.4 million), (ii) RMB41.9 million (US$5.8 million) of VAT super deduction, (iii) RMB39.1 million (US$5.4 million) of rental income, partially offset by (iv) RMB70.0 million (US$9.7million) loss from machinery and equipment, due to the upgrading of automated sorting equipment.

Income from operations was RMB2,878.8 million (US$397.0 million), an increase of 45.0% from RMB1,985.5 million for the same period last year.

Operating margin rate increased to 29.6% from 22.9% in the same period last year.

Interest income was RMB167.1 million (US$23.0 million), compared with RMB118.5 million in the same period last year.

Interest expenses was RMB72.2 million (US$10.0 million), compared with RMB23.1 million in the same period last year.

Gain from fair value changes of financial instruments was RMB51.6 million (US$7.1 million), compared with a loss of RMB13.6 million in the same period last year. Such gain or loss from fair value changes of the financial instruments are determined by selling banks according to market-based estimation of future redemption prices.

Income tax expenses were RMB575.6 million (US$79.4 million) compared to RMB438.2 million in the same period last year. Overall income tax rate decreased by 1.5 percentage points this quarter compared to the same period last year due to a decreased mix of taxable income generated by local operating entities, taxes at the full 25% tax rate, than taxable income from one of the headquarter entities that enjoys a 15% preferential rate given its High and New Technology Enterprise qualification.

Net income was RMB2,530.2 million (US$348.9 million), which increased by 43.9% from RMB1,758.7 million in the same period last year.

Basic and diluted earnings per ADS attributable to ordinary shareholders were RMB3.14 (US$0.43) and RMB3.07 (US$0.42), compared to basic and diluted earnings per ADS of RMB2.23 and RMB2.23 in the same period last year, respectively.

Adjusted basic and diluted earnings per ADS attributable to ordinary shareholders were RMB3.14 (US$0.43) and RMB3.07 (US$0.42), compared with RMB2.23 and RMB2.23 in the same period last year, respectively.

Adjusted net income was RMB2,531.0 million (US$349.0 million), compared with RMB1,758.7 million during the same period last year.

EBITDA[1] was RMB3,883.1 million (US$535.5 million), compared with RMB2,892.0 million in the same period last year.

Adjusted EBITDA was RMB3,883.9 million (US$535.6 million), compared to RMB2,892.0 million in the same period last year.

Net cash provided by operating activities was RMB3,761.6 million (US$518.8 million), compared with RMB3,780.8 million in the same period last year.

Business Outlook

Based on current market and operating conditions, the Company reiterates that its parcel volume for 2023 is expected to be in the range of 29.27 billion to 30.24 billion, representing a 20% to 24% increase year over year. Further, the Company remains committed to achieve at least 1.5 percentage point increase in volume market share for the entire year. Aforementioned estimates represent management's current and preliminary view, which are subject to change.

(1) EBITDA is a non-GAAP financial measure, which is defined as net income before depreciation, amortization, interest expenses and income tax expenses which management aims to better represent the underlying business operations.

Supplemental Information on Zhongrong Trust Product

Through other public announcements, the Company became aware of the delay in repayments by Zhongrong International Trust Co. Ltd. ("Zhongrong Trust") of certain trust products under its management after Zhongrong Trust's second-largest shareholder, Zhongzhi Enterprise Group Co. Ltd., reportedly faced liquidity issues. The Company currently has two outstanding tranches in one of the products managed by Zhongrong Trust. The aggregate principal amount of these two investment tranches is RMB100 million, representing 0.4% of the Company's cash and cash equivalents, short-term and long-term investments as of June 30, 2023. These two tranches are due for redemption on August 24 and November 22, 2023, respectively. The Company has been proactively following up with Zhongrong Trust on the latest status. As of the date of this press release, it remains uncertain whether Zhongrong Trust will be able to make redemption payments upon maturity. The Company will continue to closely follow-up and provide updates to investors of any progress. The Company is prepared to take appropriate actions against Zhongrong Trust to protect its legal rights under the trust agreements and applicable laws and regulations.

Company Share Purchase

On November 14, 2018, the Company announced a share repurchase program whereby ZTO was authorized to repurchase its own Class A ordinary shares in the form of ADSs with an aggregate value of up to US$500 million during an 18-month period thereafter. On March 13, 2021, the board of directors of the Company approved the extension of the active share repurchase program to June 30, 2021. On March 31, 2021, the board of directors has approved changes to the share repurchase program, increasing the aggregate value of shares that may be repurchased from US$500 million to US$1 billion and extending the effective time by two years through June 30, 2023. On November 17, 2022, the board of directors has approved further changes to the share repurchase program, increasing the aggregate value of shares that may be repurchased from US$1 billion to US$1.5 billion and extending the effective time by one year through June 30, 2024. The Company expects to fund the repurchases out of its existing cash balance. As of June 30, 2023, the Company has purchased an aggregate of 38,473,231 ADSs at an average purchase price of US$25.18, including repurchase commissions.

Exchange Rate

This announcement contains translation of certain Renminbi amounts into U.S. dollars at specified rates solely for the convenience of readers. Unless otherwise noted, all translations from Renminbi to U.S. dollars were made at the exchange rate of RMB7.2513 to US$1.00, the noon buying rate on June 30, 2023 as set forth in the H.10 statistical release of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve Systems.

Use of Non-GAAP Financial Measures

The Company uses EBITDA, adjusted EBITDA, adjusted net income, adjusted net income attributable to ordinary shareholders, and adjusted basic and diluted earnings per American depositary share attributable to ordinary shareholders, each a non-GAAP financial measure, in evaluating ZTO's operating results and for financial and operational decision-making purposes.

Reconciliations of the Company's non-GAAP financial measures to its U.S. GAAP financial measures are shown in tables at the end of this earnings release, which provide more details about the non-GAAP financial measures.

The Company believes that EBITDA, adjusted EBITDA, adjusted net income, adjusted net income attributable to ordinary shareholders and adjusted basic and diluted earnings per American depositary share attributable to ordinary shareholders help identify underlying trends in ZTO's business that could otherwise be distorted by the effect of the expenses and gains that the Company includes in income from operations and net income. The Company believes that EBITDA, adjusted EBITDA, adjusted net income, adjusted net income attributable to ordinary shareholders and adjusted basic and diluted earnings per American depositary share attributable to ordinary shareholders provide useful information about its operating results, enhance the overall understanding of its past performance and future prospects and allow for greater visibility with respect to key metrics used by ZTO's management in its financial and operational decision-making.

EBITDA, adjusted EBITDA, adjusted net income, adjusted net income attributable to ordinary shareholders and adjusted basic and diluted earnings per American depositary share attributable to ordinary shareholders should not be considered in isolation or construed as an alternative to net income or any other measure of performance or as an indicator of the Company's operating performance. Investors are encouraged to compare the historical non-GAAP financial measures to the most directly comparable GAAP measures. EBITDA, adjusted EBITDA, adjusted net income, adjusted net income attributable to ordinary shareholders and adjusted basic and diluted earnings per American depositary share attributable to ordinary shareholders presented here may not be comparable to similarly titled measures presented by other companies. Other companies may calculate similarly titled measures differently, limiting their usefulness as comparative measures to ZTO's data. ZTO encourages investors and others to review the Company's financial information in its entirety and not rely on a single financial measure.

Conference Call Information

ZTO's management team will host an earnings conference call at 8:30 PM U.S. Eastern Time on Tuesday, August 29, 2023 (8:30 AM Beijing Time on August 30, 2023).

Dial-in details for the earnings conference call are as follows:

United States: 1-888-317-6003 Hong Kong: 800-963-976 Mainland China: 4001-206-115 Singapore: 800-120-5863 International: 1-412-317-6061 Passcode: 6463487

Please dial in 15 minutes before the call is scheduled to begin and provide the passcode to join the call.

A replay of the conference call may be accessed by phone at the following numbers until September 5, 2023:

United States:



1-877-344-7529 International:



1-412-317-0088 Passcode:



2111843

Additionally, a live and archived webcast of the conference call will be available at http://zto.investorroom.com.

About ZTO Express (Cayman) Inc.

ZTO Express (Cayman) Inc. (NYSE: ZTO and SEHK:2057) ("ZTO" or the "Company") is a leading and fast-growing express delivery company in China. ZTO provides express delivery service as well as other value-added logistics services through its extensive and reliable nationwide network coverage in China.

ZTO operates a highly scalable network partner model, which the Company believes is best suited to support the significant growth of e-commerce in China. The Company leverages its network partners to provide pickup and last-mile delivery services, while controlling the mission-critical line-haul transportation and sorting network within the express delivery service value chain.

For more information, please visit http://zto.investorroom.com.

Safe Harbor Statement

This announcement contains statements that may constitute "forward-looking" statements pursuant to the "safe harbor" provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements can be identified by terminology such as "will," "expects," "anticipates," "aims," "future," "intends," "plans," "believes," "estimates," "likely to," and other similar expressions. Among other things, the business outlook and quotations from management in this announcement contain forward-looking statements. ZTO may also make written or oral forward-looking statements in its periodic reports to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC") and The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited (the "HKEX"), in its interim and annual report to shareholders, in announcements, circulars or other publications made on the website of the HKEX, in press releases and other written materials, and in oral statements made by its officers, directors, or employees to third parties. Statements that are not historical facts, including but not limited to statements about ZTO's beliefs, plans, and expectations, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties. A number of factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement, including but not limited to the following: risks relating to the development of the e-commerce and express delivery industries in China; its significant reliance on certain third-party e-commerce platforms; risks associated with its network partners and their employees and personnel; intense competition which could adversely affect the Company's results of operations and market share; any service disruption of the Company's sorting hubs or the outlets operated by its network partners or its technology system; ZTO's ability to build its brand and withstand negative publicity, or other favorable government policies. Further information regarding these and other risks is included in ZTO's filings with the SEC and the HKEX. All information provided in this announcement is as of the date of this announcement, and ZTO does not undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking statement, except as required under applicable law.

UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL DATA





















































Summary of Unaudited Consolidated Comprehensive Income Data:



























Three Months Ended June 30,

Six Months Ended June 30

2022

2023

2022

2023



RMB

RMB



US$

RMB

RMB



US$



( in thousands, except for share and per share data)

Revenues 8,656,677

9,740,324



1,343,252

16,560,727

18,723,563



2,582,097

Cost of revenues (6,453,855)

(6,435,899)



(887,551)

(12,738,426)

(12,895,730)



(1,778,402)

Gross profit 2,202,822

3,304,425



455,701

3,822,301

5,827,833



803,695

Operating (expenses)/income:



























Selling, general and administrative (456,907)

(504,607)



(69,588)

(1,075,106)

(1,291,214)



(178,067)

Other operating income, net 239,634

78,957



10,889

354,612

292,598



40,351

Total operating expenses (217,273)

(425,650)



(58,699)

(720,494)

(998,616)



(137,716)

Income from operations 1,985,549

2,878,775



397,002

3,101,807

4,829,217



665,979

Other income (expenses):



























Interest income 118,490

167,108



23,045

229,588

259,020



35,720

Interest expense (23,102)

(72,218)



(9,959)

(82,737)

(143,928)



(19,849)

(Loss)/ gain from fair value changes of



























financial instruments (13,575)

51,640



7,121

(14,456)

207,213



28,576

Loss on disposal of equity investees and



























subsidiaries 

(764)



(105)



(764)



(105)

Foreign currency exchange gain



























before tax 119,805

81,134



11,189

106,940

70,921



9,780

Income before income tax, and share of



























loss in equity method 2,187,167

3,105,675



428,293

3,341,142

5,221,679



720,101

Income tax expense (438,205)

(575,585)



(79,377)

(693,424)

(1,030,592)



(142,125)

Share of gain/ (loss) in equity method



























investments 9,740

123



17

(13,492)

3,947



544

Net income 1,758,702

2,530,213



348,933

2,634,226

4,195,034



578,520

Net loss attributable to non-controlling



























interests 46,479

10,991



1,516

77,225

16,506



2,276

Net income attributable to ZTO Express



























(Cayman) Inc. 1,805,181

2,541,204



350,449

2,711,451

4,211,540



580,796

Net income attributable to ordinary



























shareholders 1,805,181

2,541,204



350,449

2,711,451

4,211,540



580,796

Net earnings per share attributed to



























ordinary shareholders



























Basic 2.23

3.14



0.43

3.35

5.21

0.72

Diluted 2.23

3.07



0.42

3.35

5.10

0.70

Weighted average shares used in



























calculating net earnings per ordinary



























share/ADS



























Basic 809,733,116

808,967,248



808,967,248

809,214,926

808,916,820

808,916,820

Diluted 809,733,116

840,176,316



840,176,316

809,214,926

840,125,888

840,125,888































Net income 1,758,702

2,530,213



348,933

2,634,226

4,195,034

578,520

Other comprehensive income/(loss),



























net of tax of nil:



























Foreign currency translation adjustment 97,328

(161,168)



(22,226)

85,143

(141,897)

(19,568)

Comprehensive income 1,856,030

2,369,045



326,707

2,719,369

4,053,137



558,952

Comprehensive loss attributable to non-



























controlling interests 46,479

10,991



1,516

77,225

16,506



2,276

Comprehensive income attributable to ZTO



























Express (Cayman) Inc. 1,902,509

2,380,036



328,223

2,796,594

4,069,643



561,228

































Unaudited Consolidated Balance Sheets Data:





















As of







December 31, June 30,







2022

2023







RMB

RMB



US$







(in thousands, except for share data)



ASSETS















Current assets:















Cash and cash equivalents 11,692,773

7,781,443



1,073,110



Restricted cash 895,483

851,899



117,482



Accounts receivable, net 818,968

571,176



78,769



Financing receivables 951,349

1,002,429



138,241



Short-term investment 5,753,483

7,956,404



1,097,238



Inventories 40,537

26,637



3,673



Advances to suppliers 861,573

852,970



117,630



Prepayments and other current assets 3,146,378

3,547,514



489,225



Amounts due from related parties 314,483

745,142



102,760



Total current assets 24,475,027

23,335,614



3,218,128



Investments in equity investee 3,950,544

4,042,303



557,459



Property and equipment, net 28,813,204

30,871,299



4,257,347



Land use rights, net 5,442,951

5,673,188



782,368



Intangible assets, net 29,437

26,339



3,632



Operating lease right-of-use assets 808,506

831,296



114,641



Goodwill 4,241,541

4,241,541



584,935



Deferred tax assets 750,097

880,166



121,380



Long-term investment 7,322,545

10,862,204



1,497,966



Long-term financing receivables 1,295,755

836,453



115,352



Other non-current assets 816,839

374,485



51,644



Amounts due from related parties-non current 577,140

79,660



10,986



TOTAL ASSETS 78,523,586

82,054,548



11,315,838



LIABILITIES AND EQUITY















Current liabilities















Short-term bank borrowing 5,394,423

6,701,000



924,110



Accounts payable 2,202,692

1,928,915



266,010



Notes payable 200,000

-



-



Advances from customers 1,374,691

1,441,876



198,844



Income tax payable 228,422

486,861



67,141



Amounts due to related parties 49,138

197,131



27,186



Operating lease liabilities 229,718

251,404



34,670



Dividends payable 1,497

1,581



218



Other current liabilities 6,724,743

6,718,899



926,575



Total current liabilities 16,405,324

17,727,667



2,444,754



Non-current operating lease liabilities 510,349

487,266



67,197



Deferred tax liabilities 346,472

347,490



47,921



Convertible bond 6,788,971

7,158,372



987,185



TOTAL LIABILITIES 24,051,116

25,720,795



3,547,057



Shareholders' equity















Ordinary shares (US$0.0001 par value; 10,000,000,000 shares authorized; 826,943,309















shares issued and 809,247,109 shares outstanding as of December 31, 2022; 817,117,539















shares issued and 808,747,346 shares outstanding as of June 30, 2023) 535

528



73



Additional paid-in capital 26,717,727

24,380,754



3,362,260



Treasury shares, at cost (2,062,530)

(572,247)



(78,916)



Retained earnings 29,459,491

32,324,038



4,457,689



Accumulated other comprehensive loss (86,672)

(228,569)



(31,521)



ZTO Express (Cayman) Inc. shareholders' equity 54,028,551

55,904,504



7,709,585



Noncontrolling interests 443,919

429,249



59,196



Total Equity 54,472,470

56,333,753



7,768,781



TOTAL LIABILITIES AND EQUITY 78,523,586

82,054,548



11,315,838





Summary of Unaudited Consolidated Cash Flow Data:































Three Months Ended June 30,

Six Months Ended June 30

2022

2023

2022

2023



RMB

RMB



US$

RMB

RMB



US$



(in thousands)

Net cash provided by operating activities 3,780,752

3,761,604



518,750

4,886,147

6,499,578



896,334

Net cash used in investing activities (3,609,618)

(3,541,559)



(488,403)

(6,924,369)

(9,408,160)



(1,297,445)

Net cash (used in) / provided by financing activities (157,132)

(1,974,295)



(272,268)

2,423,513

(1,133,723)



(156,348)

Effect of exchange rate changes on cash, cash





























equivalents and restricted cash 193,657

104,871



14,462

172,835

95,934



13,230

Net increase / (decrease) in cash, cash equivalents





























and restricted cash 207,659

(1,649,379)



(227,459)

558,126

(3,946,371)



(544,229)

Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at





























beginning of period 10,119,828

10,306,095



1,421,275

9,769,361

12,603,087



1,738,045

Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at end of





























period 10,327,487

8,656,716



1,193,816

10,327,487

8,656,716



1,193,816

































The following table provides a reconciliation of cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash reported within the condensed consolidated balance sheets that sum to the total of the same such amounts shown in the condensed consolidated statements of cash flows:





As of



June 30,





June 30,



2022





2023



RMB





RMB





US$



(in thousands) Cash and cash equivalents

9,927,765





7,781,443





1,073,110 Restricted cash, current

384,912





851,899





117,482 Restricted cash, non-current

14,810





23,374





3,224 Total cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash

10,327,487





8,656,716





1,193,816























Reconciliations of GAAP and Non-GAAP Results































Three Months Ended June 30,

Six Months Ended June 30





2022

2023

2022

2023





RMB

RMB

US$

RMB

RMB

US$



(in thousands, except for share and per share data)



Net income 1,758,702

2,530,213



348,933

2,634,226

4,195,034



578,520

Add:





























Share-based compensation expense (1) 





178,980

254,976



35,163

Loss on disposal of equity investees

























and subsidiaries, net of income taxes 

764

105



764



105

Adjusted net income 1,758,702

2,530,977



349,038

2,813,206

4,450,774



613,788



































Net income 1,758,702

2,530,213



348,933

2,634,226

4,195,034



578,520

Add:





























Depreciation 640,577

671,283



92,574

1,242,220

1,322,968



182,446

Amortization 31,392

33,791



4,660

62,446

68,584



9,458

Interest expenses 23,102

72,218



9,959

82,737

143,928



19,849

Income tax expenses 438,205

575,585



79,377

693,424

1,030,592



142,125

EBITDA 2,891,978

3,883,090



535,503

4,715,053

6,761,106



932,398



Add:





























Share-based compensation expense (1) 





178,980

254,976



35,163

Loss on disposal of equity investees

























and subsidiary, net of income taxes 

764

105



764



105

Adjusted EBITDA 2,891,978

3,883,854



535,608

4,894,033

7,016,846



967,666





(1) Net of income taxes of nil

Reconciliations of GAAP and Non-GAAP Results























Three Months Ended June 30,

Six Months Ended June 30

2022

2023

2022

2023

RMB

RMB

US$

RMB

RMB

US$

(in thousands, except for share and per share data) Net income attributable to ordinary





















shareholders 1,805,181

2,541,204

350,449

2,711,451

4,211,540

580,796 Add:





















Share-based compensation expense (1) 





178,980

254,976

35,163 Loss on disposal of equity investees





















and subsidiaries , net of income taxes 

764

105



764

105 Adjusted Net income attributable to





















ordinary shareholders 1,805,181

2,541,968

350,554

2,890,431

4,467,280

616,064























Weighted average shares used in





















calculating net earnings per ordinary





















share/ADS





















Basic 809,733,116

808,967,248

808,967,248

809,214,926

808,916,820

808,916,820 Diluted 809,733,116

840,176,316

840,176,316

809,214,926

840,125,888

840,125,888























Net earnings per share/ADS attributable to





















ordinary shareholders





















Basic 2.23

3.14

0.43

3.35

5.21

0.72 Diluted 2.23

3.07

0.42

3.35

5.10

0.70























Adjusted net earnings per share/ADS





















attributable to ordinary shareholders





















Basic 2.23

3.14

0.43

3.57

5.52

0.76 Diluted 2.23

3.07

0.42

3.57

5.40

0.74



(1) Net of income taxes of nil

For investor and media inquiries, please contact:

ZTO Express (Cayman) Inc.

Investor Relations

E-mail: [email protected]

Phone: +86 21 5980 4508

SOURCE ZTO Express (Cayman) Inc.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, August 29. The construction of two transformer substations (35 kV) with a capacity of 4x2500 kVA each for power supply to the center of Aghdam city was completed. Construction of power transmission lines (35 kV) to Sarijali, Khidirli, and Kengerli villages of Agdam district will start soon, JSC Azerishig told Trend.

Construction of the digital control center and training and educational complex has started in Aghdam city. The Training and Educational Complex, with the participation of local and foreign instructors, provides training of qualified personnel in the field of the electric power industry, rules of application and operation of renewable energy sources, formation of professional skills, and organization of training in real working conditions. With the participation of President Ilham Aliyev, control over the construction works of the facilities whose foundations were laid in the territories liberated from occupation, as well as the works on the restoration of the power grid, was strengthened.
AGHDAM, Azerbaijan, August 29. The issue is not going to be resolved today, we were said that it would take some time, the Secretary General of the Azerbaijan Red Crescent Society Jeyhun Mirzoev said, Trend reports from the scene.

"I provided them with our contacts. We have once again brought to the attention of the command of the Russian peacemakers information about our mission. They took my mobile phone number for communication," he said.

A convoy of humanitarian aid sent by the Azerbaijan Red Crescent Society to people of Armenian origin living in Karabakh has reached the Aghdam district. Currently, representatives of the Azerbaijan Red Crescent Society are negotiating with Russian peacekeepers regarding the humanitarian cargo.

The President of the Azerbaijan Red Crescent Society, Novruz Aslan said that in the future, other necessary goods may be delivered to residents of Armenian origin living in Karabakh.

The remnants of the separatist regime in Karabakh have long been trying in various ways to convince the world community and international organizations that Azerbaijan, by establishing a border crossing point on the Lachin road, is allegedly keeping the Armenian residents of Karabakh under "blockade", has created a "humanitarian crisis situation" for them, and that the Armenians are allegedly facing "food shortages". Armenia, which continues to manipulate the existence of an alleged "tense humanitarian situation" and "blockade" in the region, is hindering the peace process instead of following through on the agreements reached to resolve issues related to the use of the Lachin road and other alternative roads to meet the needs of the Armenian residents of the Karabakh region.

The Azerbaijani side once again demonstrates a humanistic approach and sends humanitarian aid to citizens of Armenian origin living in Karabakh.
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New Delhi, Aug 28 : Delhi Urban Development Minister Saurabh Bhardwaj along with Mayor Shelly Oberoi on Monday visited several parts of Old Delhi, including the Town Hall and Ghalib ki Haveli, to inspect the preparations for the G20 Summit.

"Inspected the works related to the preparations for the G20 Summit with the Urban Development Minister Saurabh Bhardwaj of Delhi. Took stock of the ground situation by visiting the Town Hall, Mirza Ghalib Haveli and other areas of Old Delhi. AAP-led corporation government under the leadership of Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal will leave no stone unturned in view of the preparations," Oberoi wrote on microblogging site X.

During the inspection, Bhardwaj said: "The Delhi government had not received any financial help from the Centre for the beautification work for the G-20 Summit." He however clarified that no such request had been submitted either by the state government.

Bhardwaj said that the development works in PWD and MCD regions are funded by the respective agencies.

An official said that the Delhi government is "leaving no stone unturned to create an exemplary impression".

Mayor Shelly Oberoi appealed to all political parties to transcend partisan politics and avoid indulging in petty gains.

She said: "This is not merely a matter of political affiliations but a question of our country's dignity in the eyes of esteemed international guests. Any lapses would be a collective stain on our nation."

During her inspection of the ongoing work at Ghalib ki Haveli, she reiterated her commitment to showcasing the rich heritage and culture of old Delhi through this and many other initiatives.

Bhardwaj and Oberoi inspected the work done at Chandni Chowk, and they inspected the G-20 park in Greater Kailash.

They also inspected a dispensary facility in Chandni Chowk.
New Delhi, Aug 29 : Telugu Desam Party (TDP) President and former Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, Nara Chandrababu Naidu, on Monday complained to the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) over 'large-scale irregularities' in the voters' list and the 'blatant violation' of the poll panel's guidelines.

Naidu called on CEC Rajiv Kumar and submitted an 11-page letter. The TDP alleged that the ruling dispensation is mounting political pressure on the election machinery, not allowing it to function independently.

The former Chief Minister said that the ruling dispensation in the state has set up almost a parallel election machinery in the form of 'grama' (village) and ward secretariats subverting the polling staff and bypassing the Election Commission's instructions.

He sought the intervention of the Election Commission of India (ECI) to strengthen the constitutional machinery in the state and ensure their accountability to the ECI to uphold democratic values.

"All of them work under the supervision of the nominated leaders of the ruling YSRCP. These staff members, numbering about 1.45 lakh, have been appointed as booth-level officers in place of ECI suggested employees," he told the poll panel.

In an attempt to pre-empt the poll panel guidelines, the state government issued norms on November 29, 2022 removing the teachers from the list of the staff members available to the district collectors for the election process,

Naidu said that if this is allowed to be continued, the election process will turn into selection process.

Pointing out various violations in the summary revision of the electoral rolls, the TDP supremo made an appeal to the poll panel to initiate necessary steps to conduct free and fair elections scheduled for next year.

Naidu wrote that the TDP made several representations to the Election Commission with regard to the bypolls to the Tirupati Lok Sabha seat and in the elections held for the Legislative Council on various issues including revision of electoral rolls, but the poll panel attended to only certain issues while there was abnormal delay on several other matters. This delay, he felt, is due to the extraordinary political pressure from the ruling party.

Naidu also brought to the notice of the CEO that thousands of false cases have been foisted in the past four years against the political leaders belonging to rival parties though the leaders are staging peaceful demonstrations in a democratic way.

The administrative machinery has been silenced by false cases, transfers and Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) inquiries, he mentioned in the letter.

Stating that the local body elections held in 2020-21 were almost made unanimous using political and muscle power along with 'brutal' police force, Naidu claimed that when some candidates ventured out to file their nominations, they were either kidnapped or were forcibly shifted to unknown places from the premises of the respective returning officers.

The officials were forced not to issue necessary certificates to the contesting candidates, he alleged.

The State Election Commissioner, an IAS officer of the rank of the Special Chief Secretary, was hounded, humiliated and publicly abused in filthy language with Cabinet ministers taking the lead, Naidu claimed.

Naidu also brought to the notice of the CEC that the door-to-door survey is not complete yet and political parties are not provided with the weekly reports in various constituencies.

He referred to the media reports coming out almost on a daily basis that hundreds of voters are registered with a single common address and with zero house numbers. The deletions are either suo motto or through Form-7 applications without following due process.

Though the poll panel has issued directions that the voters' list should be in serial order of house numbers and that all the members of a family be allotted the same booth, no such formula is being followed in several constituencies, he claimed.

The party in power has chosen the election machinery to serve its needs, from volunteer to district collector, making the whole election process a mockery of democracy, Naidu claimed.

He also demanded that the teachers and other department staff members be drafted for poll duty and urged the Election Commission officials to make frequent visits to the state to assess the situation.

He also appealed to the poll panel to constitute a high-power committee to regularly monitor the situation and suggest remedial measures.
New Delhi, Aug 29 : Delhi Education Minister Atishi on Monday interacted with the newly-elected members of Delhi Government schools' Student Advisory Boards (SABs) at the Thyagraj Stadium.

During the interaction on leadership, the SAB General Secretaries and members shared their experiences and the impact of the SAB works on school improvement.

They also shared the SAB formation process with the minister and told her how it has helped them develop skills of leadership, communication, negotiation, critical thinking and problem-solving.

It is to be noted that based on the success of SABs in 20 schools, it is now being implemented in all the 1,000-plus schools of the delhi government.

Atishi said that the Arvind Kejriwal government has been diligently working on improving Delhi government schools for the past eight years.

"Through the Student Advisory Boards, and by engaging with the elected members today, I can see this dream becoming a reality," she said.

She added that the confidence exhibited by the SAB members is truly inspiring.

The way they presented their experiences and ideas today demonstrates that Delhi government school students are on par with their counterparts in private schools, she said.
Colombo, Aug 29 : The Netherlands officially returned historically valuable ancient treasures 'looted' from Sri Lanka during the Dutch colonial occupation in the country from 1658 to 1796.

Visiting Dutch Secretary of State for Culture and Media Gunay Uslu signed an agreement in Colombo on Monday to officially return six colonial-era artefacts taken during the period of Dutch rule in Sri Lanka two centuries ago.

"This is a historic moment. We're following recommendations of the Committee to give back objects that should never have been brought to the Netherlands," said State Secretary Uslu after signing the agreement with Cultural Affair Minister ViduraWickremanayake.

Originating from Kandy, the last kingdom of Sri Lanka's central hills, the artefacts include gold and silver ceremonial swords (kastanes), two rifles, a Sinhala knife, and a cannon cast in bronze which is also known as Lewke's canon.

The 275-year-old cannon inlaid with gold, silver, bronze and rubies was believed to have been a gift from Sri Lankan aristocrat Lewke Disava (chieftain) to the then king of Kandy around 1745-46 and it had been seized by troops of the Dutch East India Company during the 1765 siege and the plunder of Kandy.

The artefacts planned to be returned are in the custody of the Rijksmuseum, the national museum of the Netherlands which has had historical artefacts since 1200. The return of Sri Lanka's artefacts followed the recommendations of the Dutch government-appointed commission looking into illegal Dutch colonial acquisitions and returning 478 cultural objects taken from Indonesia and Sri Lanka.

Taken over from the Portuguese (1505 to 1658), the Dutch ruled the South Asian island nation for 140 years from 1658 to 1796 until they were expelled by the British in 1796.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, August 29. In accordance with the instruction of President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev, the return of former internally displaced persons to the restored city of Lachin continues, Trend reports.

The families who left the Gobu Park 3 residential complex in the Garadag district of Baku and reached Lachin experienced the joy of returning to their homes and their native land after 31 years.

At this stage, another 13 families (52 people) moved to the city of Lachin.

Residents of Lachin, which became even more beautiful after the restoration and construction work, expressed gratitude to the President, Victorious Supreme Commander-in-Chief Ilham Aliyev, First Vice President Mehriban Aliyeva for comprehensive state care, as well as to the heroic Azerbaijani army that liberated our lands from occupation, honored the memory of martyrs. The families who arrived in Lachin were met by the staff of the State Committee for Refugees and Internally Displaced Persons; they were handed the keys to the houses.

Thus, until today, a permanent settlement in the city of Lachin has been provided for 247 families - 956 people.
Rome, Aug 29 : Train services between France and Italy were temporarily halted after a huge rockslide that blocked access to a series of tunnels.

In the mountainous regions of Italy, landslides on Monday forced the evacuation of dozens of people.

Just days after a blistering heatwave, Italy is now experiencing a significant drop in temperatures with strong winds and heavy rains that cause landslides, mudslides and flood warnings, Xinhua news agency reported.

According to local media, mudslides forced the evacuation of around 70 people near the Alpine city of Cortina d'Ampezzo, and a dozen others had to be taken to safety after flooding in the Valtellina area of Lombardy north of Milan. Roads were closed, and flood warnings were issued across northern Italy, including in and around the cities of Genoa, Milan, Turin and Verona.

In Venice, a high-tech anti-flood system was used this year, as the city faced the risk of flooding in August. Normally, the flood season in that part of the country begins in October.

All this comes just days after the end of the country's third major heatwave of the summer. Last Friday, the Ministry of Health said that 19 of the country's 27 largest cities were under extreme heat warning, with high temperatures posing health threats even to young and healthy individuals.

Over the weekend, a cold weather system brought lower temperatures to the country. On Monday, only one city was under "red alert".

The train service that connects Italy's Piedmont region with France's Alpine Savoy region across the Alps was closed on Monday due to a rockslide in France's Maurienne Valley on Sunday and could remain closed for days or even a week, according to train operators in both countries.

Temperatures were dropping in southern Italy on Monday, but without the rain that pelted much of the rest of the country. After weeks of drought, fire risks remained and there were reports of new wildfires around Sicilia's capital Palermo and in the rural parts of the island of Sardinia.

There were no reports of serious injuries from the latest blazes, though in Sardinia the electricity transmission network was damaged, causing brief outages.
Jerusalem, Aug 29 : An Israeli minister said that the government will not agree to "any concessions" to the Palestinians as part of a possible normalisation deal with Saudi Arabia, as has been reportedly demanded by Riyadh and Washington.

"We will not make any concessions to the Palestinians. It's a fiction," Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich told Israel's Army Radio on Monday.

Smotrich, who is the leader of the pro-settler Religious Zionist Party, said Israel is interested in establishing official ties with Saudi Arabia, but "it has nothing to do with Judea and Samaria", Xinhua news agency reported.

Judea and Samaria is a frequently used Israeli term for the West Bank.

Smotrich's statement comes after both Saudi Arabia and the United States have underscored several times in recent months that a US-brokered agreement between Israel and Saudi Arabia would necessitate positive developments toward a resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the 56-year-old Israeli occupation of the West Bank and Gaza Strip.
Chances of Harris presidency should send a chill up every Americans spine: Haley. Image Source: IANS News

Washington, Aug 29 : Firing a fresh salvo at US Vice President Kamala Harris, fellow Indian-American and Republican presidential hopeful Nikki Haley has said that the prospect of her presidency should "send a chill up every American's spine".

In an interview to Fox News, Haley, who has called Harris "incompetent" and "unbelievably extremist", expressed concern at the prospect of the vice president becoming leader if Democrats register a win in the 2024 presidential elections.

"My concern is we cannot have Kamala Harris as President. We can't chance this. We have to make sure that we have a new generational leader that's going to bring in not only Republicans, but we're going to pull back the independents," Haley told Fox News on Sunday.

"We're going to bring back in the suburban women, we're going to bring in Hispanics. We're going to bring in the Asian community. We have to make sure we win this, because the thought of Kamala Harris being President should send a chill up every American spine."

In the first Republican presidential debate in Milwaukee last week, the former South Carolina Governor had said that "anybody is better than Kamala Harris", bolstering her previous stance that a vote on President Joe Biden is a vote on his 2024 running mate Harris.

Her views correspond with fellow Republican strategists, who opine that Harris is a thorn in Biden's wrinkled paw.

Responding to Haley's fresh attack, writer Jemele Hill said that the former UN ambassador is "racist" because she doesn't want Harris to be the president, Fox News reported.

Haley, who says that it is time to "put a badass woman in the White House", is far behind her former boss Donald Trump and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis in popularity polls.

A recent Fox News poll showed that 53 per cent of likely voters preferred Trump.

Haley came fifth, far behind DeSantis and fellow Indian-American rival, Vivek Ramaswamy.

But she insists that the race is "actually just getting started".

Meanwhile, a recent NBC News survey found that 49 per cent of respondents have a negative opinion of Harris, while 32 per cent of those surveyed have a positive opinion of the Vice President.

She received a net negative rating of -17 -- the lowest net negative rating for a Vice President in the history of the poll.

Between February 14 and 20, a Berkeley Institute of Government Studies and The Los Angeles Times poll found that 59 per cent of registered voters were hesitant about Harris seeking the country's highest office.

What was more shocking was that the majority of these voters were from California -- a Democrat bastion and Harris' home state.

But then Biden hasn't exactly set Harris up for success, according to Bloomberg's Francis Wilkinson.

Critics argue that Biden is running for 2024 as he does not believe Harris would have as good a chance of beating Trump.

--IANS

mi/ksk
New Delhi, Aug 29 : Homegrown crypto investing platform CoinSwitch has laid off 44 employees as part of a restructuring exercise.

According to Moneycontrol, citing sources, the customer support team was primarily affected by the layoffs as well as the operations team.

"We continuously evaluate our business to stay competitive, prioritising innovation, value, and service for our customers. To that end, we right-sized our customer support team to align with the present volume of customer queries on our platform. This impacted the roles of 44 members of our customer support team, who voluntarily resigned from their roles after a detailed discussion with their managers earlier this month," a CoinSwitch spokesperson, was quoted as saying.

"Over the last year, many support team members have been absorbed into other functions based on the suitability of their skills for the other roles. We are extending all our support to the impacted employees. As and when volumes grow and we open new roles, we will be happy to welcome back those impacted."

CoinSwitch is one of the country's two crypto unicorns, and it is also the most valuable.

In May, CoinSwitch said it had facilitated nearly $25 million in funding in 12 promising startups via its Web3 Discovery Fund.

Last week, the homegrown crypto exchange CoinDCX said it was laying off about 12 per cent of its workforce, as the crypto market continues to navigate the tough macro conditions and impact of TDS on domestic exchanges.

CoinDCX Founders Sumit Gupta and Neeraj Khandelwal said in a blog post that to help the impacted employees, "we have put together a support package consisting of severance pay equivalent to the full notice period, additional one month of salary, variable pay and incentives dues, encashment of unutilised leaves, an extension of health insurance & wellness benefits and access to counselling support".

--IANS

shs/ksk
Lucknow, Aug 29 : Inspired by a recent web series, five men have been arrested for printing high quality counterfeit currency notes, and their trading via the dark web using fake profiles of foreign nationals.

Those arrested on Monday in the state capital have been identified as Vikas Dubey, Vikas Singh, Vikas Bharadwaj, Ravi Prakash and Utkarsh Dwivedi.

The joint team of crime branch of DCP North and Madiaon police recovered a printer, wads of fake notes in Rs 500 denomination worth Rs 3.2 lakh, semi prepared fake currency, eight mobile phone sets and equipment used in preparing fake currency (like printer, scanner, chemical).

A car and Rs 4,400 in cash, besides a rubber stamp of RBI and a dye of a portrait of Mahatma Gandhi were also recovered from the accused.

The miscreants owned up to their crime and disclosed that they had been printing fake notes for a long time.

Assistant commissioner of police, Aliganj, Ashutosh Kumar said that the police team was tipped off about the activities of the miscreants a few weeks ago.

On Monday, the team was present at Yadav Crossing in Lucknow when an informer tipped them off about two men who were in a car and about to deliver wads of fake currency notes to a man.

The team swooped down at the place and nabbed three persons.

"During interrogation, they disclosed the names of their two aides who were arrested later," Kumar said.

He added that Vikas Bharadwaj was the mastermind of the gang.

"We will start a detailed interrogation of all members, collectively and separately," the ACP said.

All the notes have been sent to the lab for tests to identify its manufacturing and know the raw material used. Kumar added that it is very difficult to detect the notes due to proper stripes, picture of Mahatma Gandhi, and embossing.

He said that the business of fake notes has been thriving since the time of demonetization.

--IANSamita/dpb
Bhopal, Aug 29 : A day after the ruling BJP announced that it would launch as many as five 'Jan Ashirwad Yatras' in Madhya Pradesh, the Congress criticised the move, saying the "people will welcome yatras akin to 2018." Former Chief Minister and Madhya Pradesh Congress president Kamal Nath posted a message on social media, which read, "Before the assembly elections in 2018, Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan had taken out 'Jan Ashirwad Yatra', which was welcomed by the people of Madhya Pradesh by throwing stones. Instead of blessing, the public gave such a curse that the yatra had to be stopped in the middle of the way."

The Congress leader further added that the Central leadership of the BJP has already divided yatra into five parts.

"In this way this Ashirwad Yatra has turned into tukde tukde yatra and the public will soon turn it into a ruined yatra instead of a blessed one."

On Monday, senior BJP leader and Union Minister Narendra Singh Tomar along with state unit party's head V. D. Sharma announced that five 'Jan Ashirwad Yatras' would be launched from five different regions -- Vindhya, Mahakaushal, Gwalior-Chambal, Indore and Ujjain on different dates.

Sharma told the media that Union Home Minister Amit Shah will flag-off the first yatra from Chitrakoot (Satna district) of Vindhya region on September 3. He also said that the state party unit has also requested Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and BJP national president J. P. Nadda to participate in yatras. However, in a departure from the past where a single such yatra would be taken out with long-time Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan leading it, there would be five such yatras covering all the 230 Assembly segments.

"This time the BJP leadership has collectively decided that many a time, some Assembly segments would be left out during the election- campaigning. Because of one single yatra, it wasn't possible to reach deep into all Assembly segments. This is why, the BJP leadership decided that there will be five yatras through which we would reach each and every Assembly constituency, and seek the blessings of the public," said BJP State president V.D. Sharma.

Sharma said that the yatras would begin on different dates, and after traversing through the major regions over the next fortnight, each would culminate in Bhopal on September 21, the birth anniversary of BJP ideologue Deendayal Upadhyaya. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address a gathering of workers on the occasion, he said.
Kiev, Aug 29 : Ukrainian Defence Minister Oleksii Reznikov said that "powerful players" were expected to arrive in the war-torn nation's arms market.

Addressing a news conference on Monday, he said: "By the end of this month or at the beginning of September, there will be good news about powerful players arriving on Ukraine's arms market. Several agreements will be signed."

Ukraine plans to hold an industrial defense forum around the end of September or the beginning of October, CNN quoted the Minister as saying.

"The participation of about 50 powerful players of the arms market is planned," Reznikov added.

He further said that Ukraine has "significantly increased the production of domestic weapons", such as 155 mm artillery shells that have already passed tests.

"The contract is being executed. The first orders are already in place, we will immediately transfer them (artillery shells) to the Armed Forces. And we plan to increase the number for their production."

Reznikov noted that while the 125 mm artillery shells are still currently being tested, there are difficulties with producing 122 mm artillery shells.

Ukraine has several missile and anti-missile programs and is discussing "how to use the funds more appropriately in this direction", CNN quoted the Minister as saying.

"A lot of money is needed so that these programs can be put into effect in 2024-2025.

"That's why we are having a discussion: whether to spend money and buy shells now from foreign manufacturers or invest it (at home) and have missiles approximately in a year," he explained.

In his nightly address to the nation, President Volodymyr Zelensky echoed Reznikov's comments, noting that Ukraine is "maximising production capacity" of domestic weapons.

"Artillery made in Ukraine. Shells made in Ukraine. Drones, missiles, armored vehicles. We are maximising production capacity. Ukraine can do it.

"Funding is available. Our defenCe industry will yield better results," Zelensky said.
Andorra, Aug 29 : Belgian cyclist Remco Evenepoel of Soudal-Quick Step executed a commanding finish to claim victory in the third stage of the Tour of Spain, subsequently donning the overall leader's red jersey.

The defending champion surged ahead of a group, which included pre-race favorites Primoz Roglic and Tour de France winner Jonas Vingegaard, both from Team Jumbo Visma, as well as Enric Mas from Movistar, in the final 400 meters of a grueling stage concluding in Andorra, reports Xinhua.

The 158-kilometer mountain stage showcased two first-category climbs in the last 65 kilometers, culminating atop the Col de Ordino. This stage also featured a breakaway including Damiano Caruso of Bahrain Victorious and Bora-hansgrohe's Lennard Kamna.

Caruso, the last breakaway rider on the track, was caught by the peloton less than two kilometers from the finish.

This prompted Sepp Kuss of Jumbo Visma to initiate an attack, with Marco Soler and Juan Ayuso, both from the UAE Team Emirates, closely following in pursuit of the stage win.

Nevertheless, it was Evenepoel who demonstrated exceptional resilience in the final stretches, leveraging his "puncheur" capabilities to take the lead just under half a kilometer before the finish. He was closely trailed by Vingegaard, Ayuso and Roglic, who finished mere seconds behind.

Considering the time bonuses, Evenepoel transitioned into the red jersey. This came after the previous leader, Andreas Piccolo of Team EF Education Easypost, lost his lead early in the stage.

Unfortunately for Evenepoel, post-race celebrations were tainted when he collided with a cameraman just after crossing the finish line, resulting in a minor cut on his right eyebrow.

Tuesday's Stage 4 spans 184.6 kilometers, stretching from Andorra to Tarragona. With two third-category climbs situated 60 and 30 kilometers from the endpoint, a rapid conclusion to the day is anticipated.
Bengaluru, Aug 29 : A petition seeking reinvestigation into the Soujanya rape and murder case has been filed in the Karnataka High Court.

The petition filed on Monday has sought direction from the court to the state government to order reinvestigation of the case. The petition was submitted by the regional director of Shree Kshetra Dharmasthala Rural Development Project, Sheenappa and another person, named Nandeeshkumar Jain.

The high court is yet to take up the petition.

The petitioners have also sought legal action against Mahesh Shetty Thimarodi for allegedly issuing abusive statements against famous Dharmastahala Manjunatha temple and judiciary. Mahesh Shetty Thimarodi has been organising agitations and protests demanding justice in the Sowjanya case. He is also making allegations against powerful temple management in the case.

The petition has made the Chief Secretary, Additional Chief Secretary of Home Department, Mahesh Shetty Thimarodi and six others as parties in the case.

17-year-old Soujanya was kidnapped on October 9, 2012 on way to her home in Ujire near Dharmasthala. She was studying in Sri Dharmasthala Manjunatheshwara College. The next day her body was found near Nethravathi River, close to her house in the forests. The body was found half naked. One of her hands was tied with her dupatta to a tree. The police found that her genitals were soiled.

The news spread like wildfire and thousands of people gathered to demand justice. The fingers were pointed towards the family members of the powerful religious leader of the region. Amid the furore, the police arrested one Santhosh Rao on October 11 and claimed that he had raped and killed Soujanya.

It is alleged that the police after coming under political pressure had not bothered to videograph the spot or the body. No experts were brought to comb the area and no samples were collected from the dead body.

The protesters and family members of Soujanya raised suspicions against Malik Jain, an accountant with the Dharmasthala Trust, Dheeraj, son of a senior manager in the Annapoorna Trust and Nischal Jain, the nephew of Rajyasabha member D. Veerendra Heggade. However, Veerendra Heggde claimed that Nischal Jain was in New York when the incident took place. The Criminal Investigation Department (CID) took the three men into custody and interrogated and released them later.

Though the family of Soujanya approached courts challenging the release of the three men along with the accused, the higher courts did not allow the petition. The case was later handed over to the CBI for further investigation.

On June 16, the CBI Special Court acquitted the arrested accused Santhosh Rao of all the charges and the court also ordered a probe against those who investigated the case for turning a blind eye towards collecting crucial evidence in the due course of time. The judgment raised concerns among the public.

The suspicion was raised as an eyewitness Ravi Poojari, a security guard, who saw Soujanya alighting from the bus and walking towards home, had died suspiciously. Though it was concluded as a case of suicide, it is alleged that he was killed. The CBI charge sheet mentioned Santhosh Rao as the lone accused.

The issue has now come to the forefront again in Karnataka. Rajya Sabha BJP MP Veerendra Heggade reacting to allegations of hushing up the case had stated that attempts are made to bring disrepute and defame the Hindu pilgrimage center Dharmasthala, which is taking giant strides in terms of development by the invisible hands. The issue is taking a political turn with BJP organising a massive protest demanding the arrest of culprits in the case.
Washington, Aug 29 : American rapper Eminem's lawyers have sent a letter to Indian-origin tech entreprenuer Vivek Ramaswamy, who is seeking a Republican nomination for the 2024 US presidential election, asking the latter to stop rapping his songs.

The letter, date August 23 and sent by the rapper's record company BMI, comes more than a week after Ramaswamy delivered an impromptu performance of "Lose Yourself", one of Eminem's most popular numbers, at the Iowa State Fair, reports the BBC.

The letter says the company "received a communication from" Eminem, whose real name is Marshall Mathers III, objecting to the Republican's use of his "musical compositions".

"BMI will consider any performance of the Eminem works by the Vivek 2024 campaign from this date forward to be a material breach" of its licence, it adds.

Responding to the letter, Ramaswamy's campaign spokeswoman Tricia McLaughlin, referring to an Eminem lyric, said in a statement on Monday: "Vivek just got on the stage and cut loose. To the American people's chagrin, we will have to leave the rapping to the real slim shady."

On Monday night, Ramaswamy posted on X, formally known as Twitter, to make light of the situation, reports the BBC.

"Will The REAL Slim Shady Please Stand Up? He didn't just say what I think he did, did he?" he wrote.

Ramaswamy, the 38-year-old political newcomer is seen, as a rising star in the campaign following a strong performance at last week's Republican debate.

He is almost tying up with Florida Governor Ron DeSantis at number two in polls, beating fellow Indian-American Nikki Haley and former Vice President Mike Pence.

A Yahoo News/YouGov poll released last week showed DeSantis in second place in the Republican race with 12 per cent support -- just four points ahead of Ramaswamy.

With a worth of more than $950 million, Ramaswamy raised more than $450,000, with an average donation of $38, in the first hour after the Republican debate.

In addition, he was the most Google-searched Republican candidate, followed by Haley, according to Fox News.

Also at the debate, Ramaswamy did not rule out the possibility of teaming with former President Donald Trump if the latter secured nomination for a third time.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, August 29. Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan are in the process of negotiations on cooperation development in the field of jewelry sales on the international market, the Chairman of the Association of Jewelers of Azerbaijan, Togrul Abbasguliyev told Trend.

According to him, cooperation with the Association of the jewelry industry of Uzbekistan has been going on for three years. As part of the cooperation, the possibilities of selling jewelry to various countries are being discussed.

"Our partnership demonstrates high productivity. Brands from Azerbaijan are successfully represented at exhibitions and festivals organized in Uzbekistan. A number of business forums were held. The delegation of the Association of the jewelry industry of Uzbekistan was on a business trip to Baku in August 2023, and the parties made proposals for cooperation. One of the important proposals is to place the products of our brands under the label "Made in Azerbaijan" in the shopping centers of Uzbekistan and brands from Uzbekistan under the label "Made in Uzbekistan" in the shopping centers of Azerbaijan," said Abbasguliyev.

According to Abbasguliyev, it was decided to focus on the following potential projects: the availability of Uzbek gold as a raw material for Azerbaijani producers, the creation of joint production enterprises, jewelry production and export to third countries. This will allow the countries to expand the distribution of brands and significantly increase the share of jewelry products in export deliveries.

He also noted that Uzbekistan is one of the leading gold producers on a global scale.

"It is planned to export jewelry made in Azerbaijan using Uzbek raw gold to the markets of third countries. Our proposals have already been submitted to the Uzbek side, and we expect a response in the near future," he said.

Abbasguliyev added that in January 2021, a cooperation agreement was signed between the Association of Jewelers of Azerbaijan and the Association of the jewelry industry of Uzbekistan.

In general, the volume of the jewelry market in Azerbaijan for the first half of 2023 amounted to 109 million manat ($64.1 million).

In addition, imports of gold and silver amounted to 71.4 million manat ($42 million) in 2022, and exports were 19.6 million manat ($11.5 million). In general, the volume of the jewelry market in Azerbaijan for 2022 amounted to 153 million manat ($90 million).
Bengaluru, Aug 29 : The Karnataka Police have arrested an associate of Mohammad Junaid, the absconding kingpin of terrorist group that wanted to carry out disruptive acts in the IT city, police said on Tuesday.

The detained person has been identified as Mohammad Arshad Khan. The authorities say that the development is going to be a major breakthrough and they could get vital clues on Mohammad Junaid, who had conspired to carry out terrorist activities and is suspected to be operating from the border areas of Afghanistan..

Khan was absconding for four years and he is also the main accused in the kidnap and murder case of one Noor Ahmad in 2017.

A special team headed by Police Sub Inspector Vinod Nayak attached to R.T. Nagar police station was formed to nab the accused. The police got a tip off on Mohammad Arshad staying at his residence in the early hours.

The police team surrounded the house, broke the door open and arrested the accused. Mohammad Arshad Khan had attempted to kill himself with a knife and also tried to jump off from the second floor of his house.

However, the police team managed to control him and took him into custody.

The police said that Mohammad Arshad was into criminal activities at an early age. There are 17 cases against him include serious criminal cases such as murder, attempt to murder, theft and others.

Mohammad Junaid, the mastermind behind the terror plot, was supplying arms and ammunition to the local group. The police had seized live grenades sent to the local group by him.

The CCB wing had arrested Syed Suhail Khan, Mohammad Faizal Rabbani, Mohammad Umar, Muddassir Pasha and Zahid Tabrez in July andbusted a terror module operating in Bengaluru. They hadseized a large cache of explosives, weapons and equipment.

The police investigating the case also found that the terror group had links with the Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT). They have further found that T. Nazir, a terror suspect in the Bengaluru serial blasts of 2008 lodged in the Central Prison of Bengaluru, had brainwashed the arrested youths to carry out a major terror strike in IT city.

He delivered orders to the accused persons and controlled the gang of terrorists through Mohammad Junaid, the prime kingpin. Nazir, hails from Kerala, allegedly gave instructions from the prison.

The arrested suspected terrorists came in contact with Nazir, while they were in prison through Junaid.

The probe also revealed that Nazir helped Junaid to cross the Indian borders. The special wing CCB sources said that Nazir will be taken into custody on a body warrant. All the arrested accused have confessed that they were tutored in the central prison by Nazir to carry out terror strikes, sources explained.

The police have gathered information on Junaid having links in Baku city, the capital of Azerbaijan. The probe has revealed that he went to the Middle East on original passport in 2021. The police had not seized his passport as the murder case in which he was involved did not have any international connection. The Karnataka Police have issued a lookout notice in this to track Junaid.

mka

IANS
New Delhi, August 29 : In what could lead to yet another diplomatic flare-up, China has released what it called the "2023 edition of the standard map" of the country showing Aksai Chin -- one of the two large disputed border areas between India and China -- and whole of Arunachal Pradesh within its territory, according to reports quoting local Chinese media.

The map was released on Monday by China's Ministry of Natural Resources, the reports said.

The latest development has come four months after Beijing had announced in April that it will "standardise" names of 11 places in Arunachal Pradesh.

Also the release of the map has come at a time when the New Delhi G20 summit is less than a fortnight away, which the Chinese President Xi Jinping is also expected to attend.

The G20 summit is scheduled to be held between September 9 and 10.

India has always asserted that Arunachal Pradesh has "always been" and will "always be" an integral part of the country.

--IANS

ans/ksk
Patna, Aug 29 : Massive fire broke out in the State Bank of India (SBI) branch in Gopalganj on Tuesday, leading to loss of properties, an official said.

The incident occurred around 5.30 a.m. at Monia Chowk branch of SBI. The local residents informed the bank officials and fire brigade about the mishap.

We were informed by local residents about the fire mishap. We immediately contacted the fire brigade. The actual reason for the fire is not ascertained yet. It seems that a short circuit could be the reason for the mishap. Some computers and documents were gutted in this mishap. We are analyzing the loss of properties," said Jainesh Kumar, branch manager of SBI Monia branch Gopalganj.

"We have used three fire engines to douse the flame. It has taken two hours. The actual reason for the fire is not known yet. Short circuit could be the reason for the mishap," said Prasadnt Kumar, SHO of the town police station.
Seoul, Aug 29 : The radiation levels in seawater near South Korea were found to have been within the safe range despite Japan's release of contaminated water from its crippled Fukushima nuclear power plant, Seoul's Oceans Ministry said on Tuesday.

The Ministry's emergency tests on four locations in its territorial waters and high seas showed that the concentration levels of cesium and tritium stood well below the standard set by the World Health Organization for drinking water, Vice Oceans Minister Park Sung-hoon said at a media briefing here.

The South Korean government has carried out emergency radiation tests on about 30 spots in the waters since August 24 when Japan began discharging radioactive water from the power plant into the ocean, and all the samples have met the safety standards, reports Yonhap News Agency.

No radiation has been detected in domestic seafood or imported marine products so far, Park added.

The government expanded the number of testing points from the previous 92 spots to 200 amid public concerns about the potential impact of the controversial release, and vowed to further raise its number to a total of 243 points next year.

On August 23, Japan initiated the discharge of the contaminated water, a process expected to span more than three decades, despite lingering health and environmental concerns from neighbouring countries.

More than a million tonnes of water stored at the nuclear plant will be discharged over the next 30 years.

Hit by the magnitude-9.0 earthquake and an ensuing tsunami on March 11, 2011, the Fukushima plant suffered core meltdowns that released radiation, resulting in a level-7 nuclear accident, the highest on the International Nuclear and Radiological Event Scale.

The plant has been generating a massive amount of water tainted with radioactive substances from cooling down the nuclear fuel in the reactor buildings, which are now being stored in about 1,000 storage tanks.

Plant operator Tokyo Electric Power Company (TEPCO) said it plans to carry out the first round of release over the next 17 days to discharge 7,800 tonnes of the radioactive wastewater.

In the current fiscal year through next March, a total of 31,200 tonnes are slated for discharge, equivalent to the storage capacity of 30 tanks, according to TEPCO.

The radioactive wastewater has been diluted as planned before being discharged via an underwater tunnel 1 km from the plant.
New York, Aug 29 : Novak Djokovic made a stunning comeback to the US Open after he was denied the calendar grand slam in the 2021 final by the Russian Daniil Medvedev.

In his opening-round encounter on Monday night against Frenchman Alexandre Muller, Djokovic displayed a sheer governing performance at the Arthur Ashe Stadium with a 6-2, 6-2, 6-3 scoreline.

With the win, he regained his top stop at the ATP World Rankings from defending US Open Champion Carlos Alcaraz on September 11, when Djokovic will start a record-extending 390th week at the top.

He celebrated this win pleasantly and stated in his on-court interview, "The first set I started tremendously well off the box. We started quite late. Obviously, there was a ceremony between matches and I knew that we might have a late start, but nevertheless, I was excited to come out on the court."

It's been a couple of years, and to come out here in front of you guys is always an honor and a pleasure here on Arthur Ashe," he added.

The dominance on the court that Djokovic showed was pretty evident to all, especially to former American President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama who enjoyed his game till the end.

Djokovic will be eyeing his 4th US Open title in his 10th appearance and also to make his third career appearance in the final of all four Slams during the same season (2021 and 2015).

The World No. 76 Spaniard Bernabe Zapata Miralles, who upset NCAA champion Ethan Quinn of the United States 6-4, 6-4, 6-3, will meet Djokovic in the second round.

Djokovic also expressed his respect towards Zapata Miralles, "He's a clay-court specialist but over the years all these guys learn how to play on the hard courts."

"There's no easy opponent, obviously I respect everyone. I don't underestimate anybody and try to give my best. Hopefully, I can get another win in a few days."
Jerusalem, Aug 29 : Israeli lawmakers have slammed Foreign Minister Eli Cohen and called for his resignation after he made public his meeting with Libyan Foreign Minister Najla al-Mangoush.

The Israeli Foreign Ministry revealed in a statement on Sunday that the two ministers, whose countries don't have official ties, met in Rome last week, reports Xinhua news agency.

The North African country does not recognise Israel nor does it have diplomatic relations with Tel Aviv.

Under a 1957 Libyan law, dealing with Israel is punishable by up to nine years in prison.

Cohen said the meeting was "the first step" toward building future ties with Libya and their discussions encompassed preserving the heritage of the Jewish community in the North African nation and renovating synagogues there.

Shortly after the revelation, Libyan Prime Minister Abdul-Hamid Dbeibah announced the suspension of al-Mangoush.

The Libyan foreign minister fled to Turkey out of fear for her safety after the meeting triggered an uproar in Libya.

Meanwhile on Monday, Israeli Labor Party leader Merav Michaeli called on Cohen to resign, accusing him of causing "unprecedented" damage.

In a statement, she said that "a hasty publication has ruined the life of the Libyan minister who has had to flee to Turkey and has caused international damage to Israel".

Opposition leader and former Foreign Minister Yair Lapid criticized Cohen as "amateurish".

In a post on X, formerly known as Twitter, Lapid wrote that the publication of the meeting was "irresponsible" and "putting in danger" al-Mangoush's life.

"Countries of the world this morning are looking at the irresponsible leak of the meeting of the Israeli and Libyan foreign minister and asking themselves: Is it possible to manage foreign relations with this country? Is it possible to trust this country?" he said in a statement.

Benny Gantz, a prominent opposition leader and former Defence Minister, said that Israel's foreign relations "are a sensitive and serious matter, certainly when it comes to ties with Arab countries and certainly those with which we do not have official relations".

He accused Cohen of acting for the sake of "PR (public relations) and headlines, with zero responsibility".

Also slamming the Foreign Minister's move, Israel's Channel 12 commented that Cohen's announcement had seriously damaged the Jewish state's credibility.

Israel has normalised relations with some Arab countries in recent years as part of US-backed deals known as the Abraham Accords.
New Delhi, Aug 29 : The Supreme Court on Tuesday adjourned the hearing on a plea filed by Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal challenging criminal proceedings initiated against him in a 2014 inflammatory speech case.

A bench comprising Justices M.M. Sundresh and J.B. Pardiwala allowed a period of four weeks for filing of rejoinder affidavit in the matter.

Earlier, the top court had stayed criminal proceedings against Kejriwal for his controversial remark that "God will not forgive you if you vote for BJP (Joh Bhajapa (BJP) ko vote dega use khuda bhi maaf nahin karega)" during the 2014 Lok Sabha polls.

The Supreme Court had orally remarked that there can be no appeal for votes on the basis of religion.

The special leave petition filed by Kejriwal challenged the Allahabad High Court declining to entertain his plea for discharge in the case. The high court had upheld an order of the Sultanpur sessions court.

In his petition, Kejriwal had contended that "khuda" cannot be attributed to the God of Muslims alone.

A Flying Squad Magistrate, citing Section 125 (promoting enmity between classes in connection with election) of the Representation of the People Act, alleged that Kejriwal had flouted the model code of conduct.
Prayagraj, Aug 29 : A 16-year-old boy was allegedly beaten to death after a dispute with fellow students belonging to another community in Prayagraj.

The incident took place on Monday when the Class 10 student was returning home with his cousin sister, who is also a Class 9 student in the same school.

The victim and the accused students had reportedly clashed in the school over some dispute but the matter was settled by the teachers.

It was when the victim was returning home with his cousin sister, the accused allegedly passed comments and harassed his sister.

When he protested, the accused thrashed him, leading to his death.

A senior police official said rumours of harassment were falsely spread and that the incident was a result of a dispute among students.

aThere was a dispute among the students in which the student was attacked with batons. He was admitted to the hospital, where he later died during treatment," he said.

A case has been registered and three people have been taken into custody who are currently being interrogated, police said.

Meanwhile, the incident incited anger among the locals, who blocked the roads in protest.

Shops were shut down due to the escalating unrest.

The commotion continued till late Monday evening, prompting police to deploy forces at the spot.
Vijayawada, Aug 29 : Andhra Pradesh and Telangana celebrated Telugu Language Day on Tuesday by paying rich tributes to writer and linguist Gidugu Venkata Ramamurthy on his birth anniversary.

Former Vice-President M. Venkaiah Naidu greeted people on Telugu Language Day. He called for preservation of Telugu language and culture by drawing inspiration from Gidugu Ramamurthy.

Andhra Pradesh Governor S. Abdul Nazeer greeted all Telugu people on Telugu Language Day. He said that Telugu is one of the sweetest and beautiful languages, widely spoken in the country and the world.

Chief Minister Y. S. Jagan Mohan Reddy also greeted people on the occasion.

He noted that Ramamurthy is the foremost among the modern Telugu linguists. He was a great person who brought Telugu language to the common people through his movement and made it a colloquial language.

The Chief Minister stated that Ramamurthy contributed significantly to human development by

increasing literacy through language skills.

Former chief minister N. Chandrababu Naidu also paid rich tributes to Ramamurthy. He greeted Telugu people all over the world on Telugu Language Day, which marks the birth anniversary of the first Indian linguist and the Telugu luminary, Gidugu Venkata Rammurthy.

"I pay tribute to the memory of Gidugu Ramamurthy, who started a movement to write books in Telugu colloquial language and brought literature closer to the common man. He believes that the language of instruction should be the mother tongue for promoting literacy," Naidu said.

The Telugu Desam Party (TDP) president said that inspired by Gidugu Ramamurthy's ideals, TDP laid the foundation for the promotion and preservation of the Telugu language through various measures ranging from establishment of Telugu University to introduction of Telugu in the

administration. He requested all to work together for preservation of the Telugu language.

Leaders of Telangana also paid rich tributes to Gidugu Ramamurthy on his birth anniversary. Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) leader K. Kavitha said that Ramamurthy, who was born on August 29, 1863, was the father of the Telugu language movement.

She called him a great man who conveyed his thoughts beautifully in the language of daily conversation. It was because of his movement that the literary creation, which was limited to scholars, became accessible to everyone.

Ramamurthy, she said, will live as long as there is people's language. Paying heartfelt tributes to Ramamurthy, Kavitha said that Telugu Language Day is a source of pride for all.
Thiruvananthapuram, Aug 29 : President Droupadi Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and a host of other leaders greeted people on Onam, the traditional harvest festival besides the homecoming of King Mahabali in Kerala.

Among others who wished Kerala include Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K.Stalin, Kerala Governor Arif Mohammed Khan, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and many others.

"Greetings to all fellow citizens and our brothers and sisters in Kerala on Onam! On this auspicious occasion we express our gratitude to Mother nature for the countless bounties. May this harvest festival usher in prosperity and the spirit of harmony among all," said Murmu.

In Modias post on X, he said, "Onam greetings to everyone! May your lives be showered with good health, unparalleled joy and immense prosperity." "Over the last many years, Onam has become a global festival and it beautifully showcases the vibrant culture of Kerala,".

Stalin, taking a political posture on Thiru Onam, said just like King Mahabali who didnat differentiate between people, wished Onam and expected that all should stand together to have a government that sees all as one.

Onam is the amothera of all festivals in Kerala and a truly secular one and the highlight irrespective of caste,creed or religion is the traditional 26 dish Onam 'sadhya' (feast).

The sadhya especially, during Onam, has to be served on the banana leaf and in some places itas partaken while sitting on the floor, reminiscing the olden style.

Alcohol also forms a part of the celebrations which can be gauged by the sale of liquor. As per figures from the sole wholesaler of liquor and beer in the state- Bevco, and on First Onam- Sunday the sales touched a record Rs 116 crore.

Meanwhile, Congress Lok Sabha member Congress Working Committee member Kodikunnil Suresh chose this day to stage a protest to open the eyes of the government which is not coming to the trials and tribulations of the beleaguered farmers in the state presently in deep crisis.

On this day, the state literally is closed for all practical purposes and gets back to normalcy only next Monday.
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New Delhi, Aug 29 : The Supreme Court on Tuesday stressed that 'environment and ecology' have to be maintained while refusing to pass any urgent directions on the Centre's application which had sought release of genetically modified (GM) mustard for seed production and testing.

"The environment and ecology has to be maintained.. One year, here or there, does not matter. The environment harm cannot be reversed," told a bench comprising Justices B.V. Nagarathna and Ujjal Bhuyan to Additional Solicitor General Aishwarya Bhati, the law officer appearing for the Centre.

ASG Bhati requested that the government may be discharged from the status quo undertaking made earlier in November last year in view of the ensuing sowing season in September and October.

At this, the bench said: "If we discharge you, what remains in the matter?"

She reiterated that the oral undertaking to not release genetically modified (GM) mustard was given in the specific context of the matter being listed for final hearing in the following week.

"This is the final last phase of research after 12 years of research," she said, clarifying that this is not a commercial release. "We are keen on not missing the sowing season," urged Bhati.

At this, the bench said: "This is only one season- this year. Next year, there is another season," and refused to pass any directions on the application filed by the Central government seeking to alter the status quo undertaking.

Advocate Prashant Bhushan opposed the Centre's application and said that though it is not a commercial release, no environmental trial should be allowed until the whole regulatory system is in place. He apprehended that environmental release could contaminate non-GM crops.

The bench has posted the matter for further hearing on September 26.

Notably, the Centre had submitted an oral undertaking before the apex court, though not formally recorded in court's order, saying that it would not take any precipitative steps on the decision made by the Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC) allowing the environmental release of the GM mustard.

The petitioner, activist Aruna Rodrigues, has opposed the environmental release of genetically modified mustard saying that no one knows about the effect of GM mustard environmental release, which has the potential of contaminating all mustard seeds in the country.

Advocate Prashant Bhushan had pointed out that the apex court's technical expert committee had recommended a moratorium of 10 years on field trials of BT transgenics, and in the final report, recommended an indefinite and complete ban on herbicide-tolerant crops.

On October 25, the Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee allowed the environmental release of GM mustard for seed production and testing.
New Delhi, Aug 29 : The Indian IT industry is expected to see moderate revenue growth of 3 to 5 per cent in FY2024, lower than 9.2 per cent (year-on-year) growth in FY2023, a new report said on Tuesday.

According to the credit rating agency ICRA, key sectors like BFSI, retail, technology, and communication are expected to slow down discretionary IT spending.

The operating profit margin is expected to decline by 70-100 bps in FY2024 due to lower operating leverage.

"The operating profit margin (OPM) for the sample set is expected to decline by 70-100 bps in FY2024, due to lower operating leverage. Nevertheless, it will remain healthy at 20-21 per cent in FY2024, owing to the ability of most companies to work with multiple levers such as onshore-offshore mix, employee utilisation levels, employee pyramid optimisation, among others, to manage costs," said Deepak Jotwani, Assistant Vice President & Sector Head, ICRA.

In terms of segment-wise growth trends, the report said that BFSI and communication have tapered more than other segments. BFSI is impacted due to softness in mortgage, investment banking, capital markets and insurance segments amidst ongoing macroeconomic headwinds.

The communication vertical has been impacted because of the weakening revenue profile of telecom companies, as the investments made by the customers in 5G have not materialised meaningfully leading to the reprioritisation of its technology spending.

Moreover, the report mentioned that there has been a significant reduction in hiring by IT services companies in the last three quarters, given the slowdown in the growth momentum, coupled with utilisation of the considerable excess capacity added in FY2022 and in the first half (H1) of FY2023.

"ICRA expects lower hiring by the IT services companies in the near term because of the expected slowdown in growth and also estimates attrition to further decline over the next few quarters before stabilising at the long-term average of 13-15 per cent," Jotwani said.

In addition, the report stated that the Indian IT services industry continues to have a net cash surplus position with strong liquidity owing to a high level of operating cash flows and modest capex and working capital requirements.

--IANS

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Thiruvananthapuram, Aug 29 : A 27-year-old resident of Uttar Pradesh, who arrived from Nairobi via Sharjah, was taken into custody by the DRI for carrying drugs worth Rs 44 crore when he arrived at Kozhikode airport in Kerala.

He was taken into custody soon after his arrival, late on Monday night.

Following detailed examination, the DRI officials recovered 3.4 kilograms of cocaine and 1.3 kilograms of heroin valued Rs 44 crore in the open market from him.

The drugs were found hidden in shoes and purses which he had carried in good numbers in his baggage.

A detailed probe in the matter is on by the DRI and the police.
Pak sponsored LeT and JeM must be targeted to free India of terror.(Photo:IN). Image Source: IANS News

Srinagar, Aug 29 : Unknown gunmen killed a narcotics smuggler at Karnah in J&K's Kupwara district, officials said on Tuesday.

"During the intervening night of 28/29-08-2023, at about 2200 hrs some sound of gunshots were heard in Haridal area of PP Teetwal Karnah. Upon hearing the gunshots, a swift search operation was launched by local Police and Army unit in the area," police said.

"The search operation led to the discovery of the lifeless body of Mukhtar Ahmad Shah, aged 42 hailing from Panjtaran Karnah.

"The deceasedas body was found in the village of Pingla Haridal. The police promptly transferred the body to SDH Tangdhar for necessary medico-legal procedures. Subsequent to the post-mortem examination, the body was handed over to the family for final rites. A case has been registered under appropriate sections, and a thorough investigation has been initiated.

"From the preliminary investigations, it appears that the deceased has been killed by some rival narcotics smuggling gang members or the rival terror operatives," police said.

Police said Mukhtar Ahmad Shah was a high-profile narcotics smuggler and a person of deep connections among narcotics smugglers in the region. He had been found involved in two cases of narcotics and weapons smuggling in the recent past and had confessed to orchestrating the transportation of substantial quantities of narcotics and weaponry across the border.

The police said that his brother, Sadiq Shah, is a terrorist commander and a supplier of narcotics and weapons from Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (POJK), which underscores the depth of his involvement in these illicit activities.

"Sadiq Shah is himself charge-sheeted in narco-terror cases and happens to be a top terrorist commander based in POJK," police said.

"Furthermore, it is worth mentioning that the Shah family has been entangled in various legal cases relating to narcotics and weapons smuggling. At least six other members of the Mukhtar Ahmad Shahas family are currently facing charges in connection to these criminal activities."
Patna, Aug 29 : In a span of just two months, the Bihar Education Departments has suspended 55 teachers due to negligence or not being present in the schools, as well as slashed the salaries of 6,000 others for various teaching violations.

Soon after K.K. Pathak took charge as the Department's Additional Chief Secretary in June, he started inspections of different schools from July 1.

He has given strict directions to District Magistrates and district education officers to inspect every school twice or thrice a week and take action against the offenders.

Without taking prior permission from the authorities, the offending teachers remained absent from work and would even come in late for their classes.

Of the suspended teachers, the maximum were from Sitamarhi (26), while the remaining were from 12 other districts, according to the official data.

Twenty-four districts did not report any suspension.

The Education Department cut the salaries of 2 teachers in Bhagalpur, 3 in Arwal, 9 in Khagaria and 9 in Rohtas.

In the remaining 34 districts, the numbers were between 10 to 300.
Los Angeles, Aug 29 : Rock band Green Day have sold t-shirts emblazoned with former US President Donald Trump's mug shot to raise relief funds for Maui wildfire victims.

They recreated their 1997 'Nimrod' album cover, but replaced the pictures of Frederick Banting and Charles Best, who co-discovered insulin, with the former US president's frowning face covered up with the title in a yellow circle, reports aceshowbiz.com.

Referencing their 1997 classic 'Good Riddance (Time of Your Life)', Billie Joe Armstrong and co captioned a picture of the design on Instagram, "Good Riddance. The ultimate Nimrod shirt is available for 72 hours only. Limited edition shirt proceeds will be donated to @greatergoodmusiccharity, which brings food to those affected by the Maui wildfires."

The 'American Idiot' rockers are among a host of stars who have helped raise funds for those impacted by the deadly wildfires in Hawaii, including Jason Momoa, Oprah Winfrey, Jeff Bezos, and Dwayne Johnson.

Meanwhile, Trump has released his own mug shot merchandise that has reportedly raised a whopping $7.1 million for his campaign to become president again in 2024. His campaign team used the shot to start selling items featuring his image and the former reality TV star also posted the picture on his X profile.

The post was Trump's first message on the social media app, formerly Twitter, since January 2021 and the message also featured a link to his official website. His mugshot has already been attached to various bits of merchandise including T-shirts, coffee mugs and bumper stickers.

Trump and 18 co-defendants were given a Friday, August 25 deadline to voluntarily surrender after they were charged with trying to overturn the election result. Earlier this month, the billionaire businessman claimed to be the victim of a political "witch hunt."

Trump, who served as the 45th US President between 2017 and 2021, took to social media to rubbish the allegations and to also question the integrity of the legal process. He blasted on his Truth Social platform at the time, "So, the Witch Hunt continues! 19 people Indicted tonight, including the former President of the US, me, by an out of control and very corrupt District Attorney who campaigned and raised money on, 'I will get Trump'."
Kolkata, Aug 29 : The Calcutta High Court on Tuesday dismissed two Public Interest Litigations (PILs) seeking a National Investigation Agency (NIA) probe in the illegal firecracker unit blast at Duttapukur in West Bengal's North 24 Parganas district.

While one PIL was filed by Leader of Opposition in state Assembly Suvendu Adhikari, state BJP leader Rajarshi Lahiri had filed the other.

Dismissing both the PILs, a division bench of Chief Justice T.S. Sivagnanam and Justice Hiranmay Bhattacharya, said that an investigation in the matter will be carried out by the state police only.

The bench observed that since the investigation is at a nascent stage, the state police can go ahead with the investigation process and there is no requirement for handing over the investigation to any central agency at this moment.

However, it gave liberty to the petitioners to approach the court if they have any fresh information in the matter. So far, nine persons have been reportedly killed in the blast on Sunday morning and leaving several others injured.

Adhikari has accused the police administration of understating the death figure. He has also accused that the operators of the illegal firecracker entity had close contacts with the ruling Trinamool Congress.

The ruling party leadership, however, had since the beginning accused the opposition parties of politicising an "accident." The National Commission of Child Rights (NCRC) has already sought a report from the state government on the details of the minors killed in the blast.

Among the nine killed, two victims were reported to be minors.

They are Ronie Seikh (16) and Masum Sheikh (17).

--IANS

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New Delhi, Aug 29 : A day after sodomy cases with two school students were reported, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Tuesday ordered immediate suspension of the concerned teachers and vice principal who failed to report the incident to the police, even after one of the children had informed them about it.

On the CM's direction, Education Minister Atishi has written to the Directorate of Education to ensure rigorous training of all the principals, and teachers on provisions of POCSO to avoid such incidents in future.

"Chief Minister and I have seen the news reports of the sexual assault of the two boys of our schools by their classmates. This is a deeply disturbing act. It is especially worrying that the students had informed the teachers and the vice principal but they did not bring it to the notice of the police or any higher authorities. Not only is this immoral, but also against the law. As per the POCSO Act, non-reporting of sexual abuse - by any adult who is aware of the abuse is a criminal offence," read the letter written by Aitshi.

Atishi has mentioned that the "incident should make us reflect and take corrective measures. We must do everything to ensure children are safe and secure at all times.

"CM has directed that Directorate of Education should take the following measures: - While the criminal proceedings into the matter will continue, the concerned teachers and vice principal should be suspended immediately. Disciplinary action should be initiated against them for failing to report the matter to the police.

"(2) Ensure rigorous training of all the principals, and the teachers on provisions of POCSO, mandatory reporting, tools for early identification of abuse, types of abuse, impact of abuse on children and remedial measures enabling capacity building of teachers to support such students.

"(3) Prepare high quality material for reference of all teachers and principals and issue guidelines for schools to handle cases of abuse in a supportive environment for children," read her letter.

Atishi assured that the Delhi government's "unwavering commitment to a safe and secure environment in the schools for the holistic development of the students".

--IANSatk/dpb
New Delhi, Aug 29 : An IndiGo flight from Madurai landed safely at the Mumbai airport on Tuesday despite one of the aircraft's engines shutting down.

Given that twin-engine planes can safely operate on a single engine, the Airbus A321 safely landed in Mumbai.

"IndiGo flight 6E-2012 operating from Madurai to Mumbai had a technical issue prior to landing in Mumbai. The pilot prioritised the landing in Mumbai. The aircraft is held at Mumbai and will be back in operations after necessary maintenance. We regret the inconvenience caused to the passengers," said the airline spokesperson.

Tuesday's development comes after the aviation regulator, DGCA had said earlier that subsequent to the announcement made by Pratt & Whitney regarding material anomalies on the PW1100G engines worldwide affecting approximately 200 engines, the aerospace manufacture issued the Service Instructions (SI) enlisting the serial numbers of the engine series which are required to be removed for performing Angle Ultrasonic Scan Inspection during shop visit and accordingly are required to be removed before September 15.

--IANS

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Anantnag : , Aug 29 (IANS/101Reporters) "Warwan Valley is exceptionally stunning -- even for Kashmir...The valley's remoteness and isolation compound this beauty. This is a side of Kashmir that even most Kashmiris haven't seen." This is how a trekking company describes Warwan Valley, nestled in the Pir Panjal mountains between Ladakh and Kashmir.

"Villagers on horses are common, almost like how people use scooters in the cities. After a while, it isn't surprising to find horsemen galloping towards a village raising a cloud of dust behind them! Almost like an incredulous scene from a movie," it says.

The residents of Warwan, however, do not share tourists' romanticised notions of remoteness and isolation. "It feels like we are still living in the 90s. We are forced to walk miles as there is not a single bus service to our region," Azad Nabi Lone (37), the Sarpanch of Brayan village in Warwan Tehsil told 101Reporters.

Warwan, a picturesque valley in Kishtwar district of Jammu and Kashmir, has a population of more than 60,000 people, which has almost doubled since the census in 2011 when 35,572 people were residing in 55 villages. In 2014, the valley -- with its three blocks of Marwah, Warwan and Dachhan -- was made a Sub-Division with its headquarters at Marwah. In October 2022, the region garnered attention when Farooq Abdullah, president of the political party National Conference, rode a horse to visit Marwah.

The main occupation of Warwan Valley is farming. People grow wheat, paddy, maize and kidney beans besides collecting herbs from the forest to sell. Marwah Rajmah is famous for being grown at high altitudes and free of fertilizers. "We procure about 200 tonnes of rajmah from Marwa every year and sell it at the rate of Rs 160 per kg," said Gh Mohammad Ganie, a merchant in Anantnag

Few people are into government jobs. Many also travel to Chenab and Kashmir Valley for seasonal labour work and return home in winter. Located at an altitude of 2,134 metres, Warwan is cut off from the rest of the state due to heavy rainfall for seven months a year. "People have to stock up grain and essentials for winters as there is no connectivity apart from helicopters then," said Mohammad Hussain (40), a resident of Marwah.

Marwah is 200 kms north of Kishtwar, the district headquarters but no direct road exists between the two places. The only road that connects the residents of Warwan to the rest of the state is from Marwah to Anantnag in the West, a distance of 120 kms. No state transport service plies on that.

For a Warwan resident to travel to his district headquarters is an uphill task. They board a shared private vehicle, usually a Tata Sumo at the rate of Rs 600 to Anantnag and then another vehicle for Rs 350 from there to Kishtwar, a circuitous route. "It gets evening by the time we reach Kishtwar and no work gets done as all offices start shutting down by then. The Sumo fares also depend on the weather. If the weather is bad, the driver will increase the fare. Imagine, in this day and age we still haven't seen a bus in our village," said Rouf Lone (33) a resident of Marwah block.

Education, health out of reach

Students and patients particularly face the brunt. Amir Bhatt (17), a standard 11 student from Gumree village has to walk seven kms to the government high school in Aftee village every day. "Sometimes we leave home on an empty stomach as there is no time to eat. We have to leave early and reach home quite late. It is exhausting and even leads to disinterest in studies. When it snows, we have to stop going to school completely," said Bhatt.

Danish Ahmad Rather (25) also from Gumree, had to abandon further studies after standard 12 due to lack of transport and poverty. "There is only one degree college in Marwah, about 30 kms from our village. It functions out of a rented building, has only one permanent lecturer and only offers Arts courses. Students wanting to study further in other streams have to go either to Anantnag or Kishtwar. Not everybody can afford to stay away from home, so we are forced to drop out. If there was a proper bus, we would not have to give up our education," said Rather.

The Marwah Community Health Centre does not have adequate facilities, claim residents. "No specialised treatment is available here. We have to rush a person to Anantnag or Srinagar, the state capital, in case of serious issues, but only if there is a vehicle. Last year, Mohammad Amin (53) in our village complained of fever and chest pain in the evening. He was rushed to Anantnag but he died on the way. This is a routine affair here, thanks to the state of public transport and roads," said Rather.

To avoid last-minute exigencies, pregnant women are shifted to the cities a month before child delivery. "There, they stay with relatives or in rented accommodation. Since there is no maternity and child care facility in the sub-division and no transport facility to reach there on time, this is a necessity," said Sarpanch Lone. Not just roads and transport, electricity, internet connectivity, health care and education are also the problems plaguing Warwan.

The condition of internal roads is also no good, claim residents. "Only a few roads have been macadamized since they were constructed but in Warwan and Dachhan blocks, most roads are still in a dilapidated condition," said Rouf Lone.

Frustrated with all this, people are choosing to migrate out of the valley. In Yourdu village, 30 out of 130 families have left the village, informed Lone. 10 years ago, Mehra Begam (60) with eight members of her family, made her permanent move to Anantnag. "Walking miles for every little thing was not easy. Once we shifted and my children started work, we bought a house in Wanihama village in Anantnag district only," Mehra told 101Reporters. In 2016, Margi, a village of Warwan tehsil was reduced to ashes in an accidental fire. "There was no fire brigade or emergency service at the Sub-division and nothing could reach from outside," recalled Mehra.

The much-awaited road and the dream of a bus

The roundabout way to reach Kishtwar could be avoided if a road from Marwah to Dachhen existed. That would reduce the distance between the sub-division and the district headquarters to 85 kms. Since the road has to be carved through a mountainous forest, work is currently underway along the stretch, informed Dr Devansh Yadav, the Deputy Commissioner of Kishtwar district. "We are in talks with the State Roads Transport Corporation and soon there should be a bus at least during summers. In winter, since the area is cut-off, we run a helicopter service at 80% subsidy for locals," Yadav told 101Reporters. A chopper trip costs Rs 1,500 from Kishtwar to Marwah (Rs 2,700 without the subsidy).

Dr Yadav said that under 'Mumkin' scheme of Mission Youth, an initiative of the J&K Government, they have also supported 100 unemployed youth in the district to buy vehicles for ferrying people. "Most of these vehicles have been running for a year now," said Yadav. People, however, have no idea about the scheme. "We have only seen a few commercial vehicles plying on interior roads, nothing else," said Rouf Lone.

(Sameer Ahmad is a Jammu and Kashmir-based freelance journalist and a member of 101Reporters, a pan-India network of grassroots reporters.)
BAKU, Azerbaijan, August 29. A total of 664,921 tons of potatoes were harvested in Azerbaijan from an area of 32,665 hectares from January through July 2023, Trend reports.

The volume of this indication is 12,000 tons (1.8%) less than it was during the same period in 2022, according to Azerbaijan's State Statistics Committee. Between January and July 2022, a total of 676,984 tons of potatoes were harvested from a plot of land measuring 34,762 hectares.

During the reporting period, potatoes were primarily gathered in the Azerbaijani districts of Jalilabad (161,500 tons), Shamkir (143,750 tons), and Tovuz (136,055 tons).
Islamabad, August 29 : The Islamabad High Court (IHC) on Tuesday suspended former Prime Minister Imran Khan's sentence in the Toshakhana case and ordered his release from jail.

A division bench of the IHC, comprising Chief Justice Aamer Farooq and Tariq Mehmood Jahangir, announced the much-anticipated reserved decision, The Express Tribune reported.

The court said that the copy of the judgement will be available shortly.

On Monday, the counsel for the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP), the defendant in this case, concluded his arguments.

A heavy contingent of police and paramilitary Frontier Constabulary is present inside and outside IHC premises, The Express Tribune reported.

Separately, the former premier's sisters Aleema and Uzma Khan also reached the court.

Meanwhile, a petition has been submitted on behalf of the PTI chief by his lawyer Suleman Safdar, praying to the court to restrain the Federal Investigation Agency, National Accountability Bureau and the police from arresting him in any other case.

Khan's legal team has requested the court to hear this plea today.

When the IHC bench resumed hearing the case on Monday, ECPas counsel Amjad Pervaiz presented detailed arguments responding to the points raised by Khanas lead counsel Latif Khosa.

At the first hearing of the case on August 25, Khosa had argued that Imranas sentence should be suspended in view of an unauthorized filing of a complaint by the ECP; lack of jurisdiction; the fact that Imran was sentenced to only three years in prison; that the trial court deprived him of the right of defence and that it delivered the order without hearing arguments about the complaintas maintainability.
New Delhi, Aug 29 : While inspecting the preparations of G20 at Moti Bagh, Delhi Minsiter Saurabh Bharadwaj on Tuesday said that they never questioned BJP for not giving funds for the G20 Summit.

On this occasion, Bhardwaj said that Delhities are happy to celebrate G-20 Summit with their own money, they don't have any problem, but it is Centre which was creating problems.

Bhardwaj was hinting at the politics over expenses on the preparations of G-20 Summit.

"I Don't understand why the BJP is doing such trivial talks on such a great occasion. We never questioned them for not giving us the funds (for G20 Summit). People of Delhi are happy to celebrate the occasion of G20 with their own money," Bhardwaj said.

At the occasion, he also interracted with guards of the park and area residents.

Bhardwaj mentioned that a review of the preparations for the G20 summit was conducted at Moti Bagh. "In the presence of our honorable Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, Delhi is prepared to warmly welcome the foreign delegates of the G20 by opening its arms," he added.
Kochi, Aug 29 : Kerala film bodies have decided to lift the ban on upcoming actors Shane Nigam and Sreenath Bhasi.

In April this year, various film bodies including AMMA, FEFKA (19 different organisations) and producers association, producer Renjith had said that the behaviour of actors Shane Nigam and Sreenath Bhasi has crossed all limits and till they do not mend their ways, none from the industry will cooperate with them.

The complaint against them was that the actors do not honour their commitments and arrive late on the sets.

Actor Bhasi has apologised to the associations while Nigam also agreed to make course-corrections.
New Delhi, Aug 29 : A three-member UAE Navy delegation led by Colonel Dr Ali Saif Ali Mehrazi is on a four-day visit to India to study the specialised Meteorology, Oceanography and Weather Modelling units of Indian Navy at Kochi, Goa and New Delhi.

The Ministry of Defence said that this visit signified the beginning of a new chapter in professional cooperation between the two Navies, with the goal of exchanging professional knowledge, expertise, training and collaboration in the fields of Meteorology, Oceanography and Weather/ Ocean modelling.

TheIndian Navyover the years has accrued knowledge, expertise and skills in the domain of Meteorology and Oceanography.The Navy through its dedicated units has also been supporting many countries in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) with training in the fields as well as daily Weather forecasts services to ensure maritime safety in the region, the defence ministry official added.

According to the ministry of defence, the UAE Navy delegation visited Kochi on Monday where they met senior officers of the Indian Navy for professional interaction at Naval Operations Data Processing and Analysis Centre (NODPAC), which is a dedicated unit for aspects of Oceanography, Ocean State Forecast and Ocean Modelling.

They also visited the Indian Naval Meteorological Analysis Centre (INMAC) which looks into the aspects of Weather Forecasts and Atmosphere Modelling.

TheUAENavy Delegation also visited the School of Naval Oceanology and Meteorology (SNOM), which caters to the Meteorological, Oceanographic and Numerical Weather Prediction (NWP) training needs of the Indian Navy, the official added.

The delegation would also be visiting the Air Squadrons and MeT Office at INS Hansa, Goa which is the premier Naval Air Station of the Indian Navy followed by meeting with Commodore (Naval Oceanology and Meteorology) at IHQ MoD (Navy).

The defence ministry said that the aim of this collaboration is to foster mutual learning and strengthen collective ability to address complex issues related to Meteorology and Oceanography. Both the Navies would share their expertise and insights to work out areas for further cooperation.

The expertise, enthusiasm, and commitment ofUAE Navy and Indian Navy will undoubtedly enrich operational and scientific capabilities of both the Navies and will go a long way in furthering professional exchanges to fulfill mutual interests, the official said.
Mumbai, Aug 29 : Television actress Falaq Naaz is too excited to celebrate Rakshabandhan with Sheezan Khan and said that she wants something good as a gift from him.

Falaq said: "He is my younger brother, and our bond is very strong. We are very close with each other. I always say my mom is my backbone and Sheezan is my heart. I believe a good bond with siblings is a must.

"They are the ones with whom you can fight, cry, and share everything. And the best thing about him is that he is a very good listener, won't judge you, tries to help you by finding a solution, and also never leaves anyone's side. Our common areas of interest are music and travelling."

Talking about Raksha Bandhan this year, she added: "Just like every year, we will tie rakhi to our brothers, and I have been telling Sheezan to bring me something good as a gift (laughs) and then just spend a fun, peaceful day with them. I have one memory that I remember, once I got so busy on Raksha Bandhan that I didn't have time to tie a rakhi, and Sheezan was waiting the whole day for me. So he got very upset because I came home late, and then I tied him a rakhi. But now I make sure to keep my time for my family and celebrate it with them only."

Falaq believes that life is all about loving your family.

"I think without family, the individual has no base. No matter how many friends you have or wherever you go, your family will understand you the way no one else can," she says.

--IANS

dc/svn
New Delhi, Aug 29 : An Indian Army contingent will be a part of multinational tri-services joint military exercise 'Bright Star- 23' in the Middle East. This military exercise will take place in Egypt and is scheduled to be conducted from 31 August to 14 September at Mohammed Naguib Military Base.

Defence Ministry (MoD) that 34 countries will participate in the exercise and it will be the largest ever joint military exercise in Middle East and North Africa region.

MoD said that this is for the first time that Indian Armed Forces are participating in exercise Bright Star with a total strength of 549 personnel. The Indian Army is being represented by a contingent from 23 JAT Battalion.

It said that the Army's contingent comprising of 137 personnel departed for Egypt on Tuesday. It is a multinational tri-services joint military exercise that will be led by US CENTCOM and Egyptian Army. It was initially conceptualised as a bilateral biennial training exercise between the US and Egypt during the Camp David Accord of 1977.

The first edition of the exercise was conducted in the year 1980 in Egypt. From 1995 onwards the exercise was expanded for participation by other nations. The previous exercise aBright Stara was conducted in the year 2021 wherein forces of 21 countries had participated, the official added.

The exercise will comprise of a large number of training activities focused on combating emerging unconventional threats and enhancing regional partnerships amongst participating nations aimed at maintaining world peace. In addition to the various field and situational training exercises, exercise Bright Star- 23 will also include a combined arms live firing exercise based on a tactical setting. A panel discussion on contemporary topics is also planned to be conducted on cyber security for which the Indian armed forces are the lead force.

The exercise will provide a unique opportunity to Indian Army to share best practices and experiences with other armies besides enhancing the defence cooperation. Indian Army looks forward to an enriching professional experience from the Exercise, the official added.
Cairo, Aug 29 : The Egyptian Ministry of Water Resources and Irrigation said the latest round of negotiations on the dispute involving the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) on the Nile River concluded in Cairo with no "tangible results".

Stalled talks between Egypt, Ethiopia, and Sudan had resumed on Sunday in the Egyptian capital over the long-running dispute regarding the GERD, reports Xinhua news agency.

After years of fruitless negotiations, "the new talks aimed to reach an agreement on the rules of filling and operation of the GERD", the Ministry said in a statement late Monday.

However, "tripartite talks did not witness any tangible change in the Ethiopian positions", it added.

"Egypt continues to exert utmost efforts to reach, as soon as possible, a legally binding agreement on the filling and operation of the dam that serves Cairo's interests and positions of safeguarding water security, and avoiding the infliction of harm, while realising the mutual benefit of all three countries," it added.

All negotiating parties should adopt a comprehensive vision that will reflect positively on the upcoming rounds of negotiation, the statement said.

Ethiopia started filling the dam in 2020 despite the opposition of Egypt and Sudan, which eventually led to the suspension of relevant tripartite negotiations in 2021.

The country announced in July that the fourth filling of the dam would extend until September and the downstream countries would not be harmed.

Ethiopia started to build the GERD in 2011 and expects the giant hydropower project to generate more than 6,000 megawatts of electricity.

But Egypt and Sudan are worried that it might reduce their proportion of Nile water.
Heavy rain to continue over northeast, Sub-Himalayan Bengal, Sikkim, Bihar for next 3 days. Image Source: IANS News

New Delhi, Aug 29 : India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Tuesday said that isolated heavy rainfall activity is likely to continue over Andaman-Nicobar Islands, Northeast India and extreme south Peninsular India during next five days while a fresh rainfall spell is likely over parts of East India from Saturday.

In Northeast India, there is a forecast for light to moderate fairly widespread to widespread rainfall, with the possibility of isolated heavy rainfall over Arunachal Pradesh on Tuesday.

"From Thursday to Saturday, similar weather conditions are expected over Assam and Meghalaya. Additionally, Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram, and Tripura are likely to experience this pattern of rainfall and thunderstorms over the next five days," said the weather forecast agency in its bulletin.

Moving to East India, there's a prediction of light to moderate fairly widespread to widespread rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms, lightning, and isolated instances of heavy rainfall.

"Specifically, Sub-Himalayan West Bengal and Sikkim are anticipated to encounter these conditions on Tuesday and Thursday. Furthermore, Odisha can expect such weather on Saturday," said the IMD.

The Andaman & Nicobar Islands are forecasted to experience light to moderate fairly widespread to widespread rainfall, along with thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds ranging from 30 to 40 kmph, gusting up to 50 kmph.

"This weather pattern is anticipated from Tuesday to Saturday. There's also a likelihood of isolated very heavy rainfall over the islands on Tuesday, as well as Friday and Saturday," the IMD predicted.

The IMD further said that in South India, there's a projection of light to moderate scattered rainfall, with isolated instances of heavy rainfall expected over Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and Karaikal from Tuesday to Friday.

"Similarly, Kerala can anticipate this weather pattern from Tuesday to Wednesday," it said.

In contrast, the rest of the country is expected to experience subdued rainfall activity over the next five days, the IMD predicted.

Meanwhile, Coastal Andhra Pradesh, Yanam, and Rayalaseema are likely to see hot and humid weather persisting for the next two days.
Khartoum, Aug 29 : General Commander of the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF), Abdel Fattah Al-Burhan has started running state affairs in his other capacity as chairman of the Transitional Sovereign Council from Port Sudan, the capital city of the Red Sea State, amid increasing speculations that he intends to form a caretaker government, or a war government amid the ongoing military conflict.

In his first speech since the violent conflict broke out between the SAF and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) on April 15, Al-Burhan closed the door to any political settlement with the latter, reports Xinhua news agency.

Addressing the soldiers of Flamingo naval base in the military area of the Red Sea region on Monday, Al-Burhan said that "there will be no agreement with any party that betrayed the Sudanese people, and the efforts will be focused on defeating the enemy".

Al-Burhan's remarks came as if in response to an initiative proposed by the RSF Commander Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo on Sunday.

Dagalo calls for reaching a long-term cease-fire agreement and forming a democratic, civil government on the basis of fair and free elections at all levels.

Sudanese media on Monday night expected that Al-Burhan would issue a decision to form a war government in place of the current interim government.

Sudan Today News portal quoted informed sources as saying that Al-Burhan is heading to form "a war government", which is expected to be announced in the coming days and headquartered in Port Sudan.

Meanwhile, Sudanese politicians and analysts have expressed different opinions regarding the establishment of a war government. While some regarded the move as practical, others believed it would further complicate the situation.

"There are about 14 safe and stable Sudanese states, and therefore, there must be a government to run the country's affairs under the current situation," Abdel-Rahim Al-Sunni, a Sudanese political analyst, told Xinhua.

"The impact of the war, the collapsed economic situation, and the current security condition require a war government of competence and experience," he added.

Amjad Farid, an advisor to former Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok, said millions of Sudanese people remained in the country need an effective body to run their health, education, food and security affairs.

"This proposed government to be formed is not a political government, but a government of a technical nature," Farid said on the social media platform X, previously known as Twitter.

In contrast, the Sudan People's Liberation Movement and the opposition coalition Forces of Freedom and Change (FFC) warned that forming a new government would deepen national divisions, cautioning that it would lead to the establishment of another parallel authority.

Ibrahim al-Mirghani, a leading figure in FFC, further suggested on his X page that "all parties should work to stop the clashes first before seeking to form a government."

In the meantime, Mohamed Kabbashi, a professor of political science at Alzaiem Alazhari University in Khartoum, on Monday told Xinhua that the time is not suitable to form an emergency government, citing "complications created by the war that cannot be surpassed by forming a war government".

The violence had so far killed over 3,000 people killed and injured more than 6,000 others, according to the Sudanese Health Ministry.

More than 4.5 million people have been displaced inside and outside Sudan due to the conflict, according to the UN.
Islamabad, Aug 29 : In a major relief to Imran Khan, the Islamabad High Court (IHC) on Tuesday suspended the former Prime Minister's sentence in the Toshakhana case and ordered his release from jail.

A division bench of the IHC, comprising Chief Justice Aamer Farooq and Tariq Mehmood Jahangir, announced the short order, declaring the conviction of in the case as suspended.

As per the order, the former premier has been directed to submit surety bond worth 100,000 PKR and a guarantee of at least one person for his release.

Addressing mediapersons outside the IHC, Khan's lawyer Babar Awaz said that after suspension of the trial court verdict, his position as the chief of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party has also been reinstated.

"After the suspension of trial court order, Imran Khan can no longer be kept at the Attock Jail. Also, after the court order, Imran Khan's position as the party chief also stands reinstated. After this, PTI and Imran Khan will move towards elections," Awaz was quoted as saying.

Khan was arrested on August 5 from his Zaman Park residence in Lahore after a trial court issued its verdict in the Toshakhana case, finding the PTI chief guilty of opting to corrupt practices for personal gains using his office and its powers.

It sentenced him to three years in jail and imposed a fine of 100,000 PKR.

The trial court verdict also added that Khan would serve at least six-months more jail term if he fails to pay the fine.

In the wake of Tuesday's verdict, the PTI leadership and supporters are in celebration mode as they termed the decision of the IHC as their victory.

However, legal experts say that the IHC has not cancelled Khan's conviction or disqualification, but has suspended it and issued a bail, adding that trouble was not yet over for the former Prime Minister.

"The IHC has suspended Imran Khan's sentence. It has not cancelled the case, nor has it ended the Toshakhana case against him. The suspension of the trial court means that there would be a re-trial into the case and PTI would file an appeal in the same case as well. Therefore, Imran Khan's disqualification and conviction still stands and would be later decided in the re-trial proceedings", said Hafiz Ahsan Ahmed Khokar, a senior advocate of the Supreme Court of Pakistan.

The IHC verdict is based on the merits of the case and its trial at the session court.

The court had earlier stated that the merits of the case were not considered, and witnesses of Khan were also not allowed to record their statements, making the whole trial process a missed trial.

Meanwhile, Khan is still declared as arrested in two other cases -- the 9 May riots and Cipher case.

It is believed that he might be be kept in Attock Jail or may be moved into another prison as per his arrest in the other cases.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, August 29. The Central Bank of Azerbaijan (CBA) held another currency auction with the participation of the State Oil Fund of Azerbaijan (SOFAZ) on August 29, 2023, Trend reports.

The bank claims that the auction's demand, which totaled $58.9 million (a fall of 3.96 percent, or $2.43 million, over the previous auction), was entirely satisfied.

The demand at the previous auction was $61.33 million.

Based on the outcomes of the auction, the average weighted exchange rate of the Azerbaijani manat to the US dollar came to 1.7 AZN per USD.

At currency auctions, $2.2 billion has been bought since the year's start. The auction held on March 28, 2023, saw a record-high demand for the currency of $96.3 million.

The average demand at currency auctions organized by the Central Bank of Azerbaijan in 2022 amounted to 52.4 million manat ($30.8 million), while the supply was $70 million.
Mumbai, Aug 29 : Actor Gyanendra Tripathi, who has been receiving a lot of positive response for drama series 'Half CA', and has the highly anticipated streaming series 'Choona' on the horizon, has shared that he funded his FTII education with the money that he earned from his BPO job.

The actor shared that FTII Pune was a place which he desperately wanted to get in and learn the craft of acting after his graduation in Bhopal.

The actor said, "When I researched about the FTII acting course there, I found out one has to fill out an application form of Rs 1,500 and the annual fees would be 1.25 lakh. I couldn't afford the form fees, and there was no way my family could afford that amount.

He shared that as a young boy he cried so much knowing his other classmates were going to study further as he felt that this was the end of his formal education.

The situation demanded him to start earning as soon as possible and support the family financially.

He further mentioned, "I applied for several BPO jobs since people were earning salaries in double figures there, which was a huge thing at that time. I happened to get a job in Infosys BPO which was based in Pune. I grabbed that opportunity because I wanted to be in Pune where FTII was. I thought I would earn and save money from my job, then take admission to FTII and pay my fees with that savings. I started working on this plan and I got selected in FTII in my second attempt."

The plan seemed to be working for him for a while. However, he couldn't save the required amount of money to pay his fees. He had savings of Rs 50,000 which wasn't enough.

The actor shared with IANS, "I requested the director of the institute to allow me to continue my night shift for another 6 months during the integrated course and let me pay my fees in instalments. He was kind enough to consider that. I left my job as soon as the acting specialisation started but managing the entire two-year fees was a constant struggle. Seeing your name appear frequently in the list of fee defaulters is embarrassing, I often used to wonder what jobs I could do to support myself financially, ATM's security guard, and tea vendor at the campus at night were some ideas that I was very close to trying."

"Subsequently, with the help of some scholarships from Shatrughan Sinha ji, Shabana Azmi ji and Jaya Bachchan ji, I could complete my acting course. FTII not only gave me the opportunity to learn the craft of film acting and gain confidence as an actor but it also gave me the atmosphere, exposure and space to grow as an individual. That place is a second home to me, it embraced and nurtured me at the time when I needed it the most," he added.
Wellington, Aug 29 : The New Zealand government on Tuesday announced its plans to ban bottom fishing from the vast bulk of the Hauraki Gulf to better protect the 1.2-million-hectare marine park.

Options announced showed bottom-trawling and Danish seining could be banned from up to 89 per cent of the Hauraki Gulf marine park, reports Xinhua news agency.

Currently, only 27 per cent of the gulf is closed to bottom trawling and Danish seining.

"Aucklanders and others have called for greater protection for their beloved big blue backyard, the Hauraki Gulf," Oceans and Fisheries Minister Rachel Brooking said before a public consultation opening on Wednesday.

The gulf has great ecological, historical and social significance and is a vital part of New Zealand's tourism, transport and seafood sectors, with an economic value of NZ$100 billion ($59 billion), Brooking said, adding that the right balance needs to be made to ensure it is healthy and available for future generations.

The new Hauraki Gulf Fisheries Plan, the country's first area-specific, ecologically-based fisheries plan, was also released, which overturns the presumption that bottom-trawling and Danish seining can be used everywhere except in specified areas.

"Instead, they will be banned everywhere except in very specific and limited places, called trawl corridors, or Bottom Fishing Access Zones," said the minister.

Sedimentation, nutrient run-off and climate change all threaten the health of the gulf, she said, adding that new rules requiring farmers to manage their land better, offer the tools to help stop soils and fertilizers washing into the sea.

The Hauraki Gulf Marine Park covers an area of more than 1.2 million hectares. There are more than 50 islands within the park, many of which are public conservation lands.

The marine parklies on the east coast of the Auckland and Waikato regions, and includes the Waitemata Harbour, Firth of Thames and eastern coastline of the Coromandel Peninsula.

Most islands are open to the public, but some are sanctuaries for endangered species and a permit is required to visit.

Five marine reserves are also included within the park.
New Delhi, Aug 29 : Congress on Tuesday accused BJP-led Madhya Pradesh government of cheating the people with false promises of providing gas cylinders for Rs 450 and also promised that the grand old party will provide cooking gas cylinders for Rs 500.

Charging Narendra Modi-led Central government and Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan-led Madhya Pradesh government, Congress state in-charge Randeep Singh Surjewala said, "Even in 'Rakhi Bandhai' (Rakhi gift), the BJP Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh cheated the sisters. The Modi government has increased the price of LPG (liquefied petroleum gas) beyond Rs 1,100, due to which crores of families of the country could not get their cylinders refilled."

"Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, looking at the elections, said that 'in the month of Sawan, LPG cylinder will be available for Rs 450' but when the sisters of the state reached the gas agency the very next day with empty cylinders... they got a reply from the agency that you need to pay Rs 1,185, otherwise go home.

"But we want to tell the sisters of Madhya Pradesh not to worry as Congress has promised to provide gas cylinders for Rs 500. Only a few days are left for the BJP government steeped in corruption and scams," he said.

He also attached a video of the angry women where they were denied LPG cylinders for Rs 450 a day after the Chief Minister announced the scheme.

Ahead of the crucial Madhya Pradesh Assembly election 2023, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) announced that women in the state will get cooking gas at Rs 450 in the holy month of Sawan.

This was one of the "Raksha Bandhan gifts" the Shivraj Singh Chouhan government announced under the Ladli Behna scheme.

The Congress, which is looking to make a comeback in the poll-bound state, has already announced several guarantees, which also includes providing gas cylinders at Rs 500.
New York, Aug 29 : A 46-year-old Indian-origin doctor of dental surgery in California has pleaded guilty to stealing $500,000 Covid-19 relief money and using it for personal expenditures, such as investments.

Ranjan Rajbanshi, who ran a dental practice in Bakersfield and Santa Barbara, received over $850,000 in Covid relief money from the Small Business Administration (SBA) and the US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) from April 2020 through February 2022.

He represented to the government that he would only use the relief money for specified business purposes such as facility costs, payroll, and protective equipment for him and his staff, a release by US attorney's office for Eastern District of California stated last week.

Rajbanshi subsequently used $500,000 of the relief money for improper personal expenditures such as investments.

He has agreed to pay that money back to the government before his sentencing. He is scheduled to be sentenced by US District Judge Ana de Alba on December 4, and faces a maximum statutory penalty of 10 years in prison and fine of $250,000.

The actual sentence, however, will be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables.

Last month, around 14 people, including several Indian-origin business owners and employees, were charged in a $53 million fraud scheme involving a Covid-19 pandemic relief programme in Texas.

The case was considered the largest investigated by the Pandemic Response Accountability Committee (PRAC) Fraud Task Force thus far.

Set up on May 17, 2021, the task force bolsters efforts to investigate and prosecute the most culpable domestic and international criminal actors and assists agencies tasked with administering relief programs to prevent fraud.

--IANS

mi/ksk
Lucknow, Aug 29 : Hours after he praised Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, BSP president Mayawati expelled party leader Imran Masood citing "anti-party" activities.

Reacting to the development, Masood said that Mayawati had strayed from the path shown by Dr B.R. Ambedkar was responsible for the decline of the party in the past one decade.

Though he did not clarify his next political move, Masood said that he would continue to work for the weaker section and the downtrodden.
Chennai, Aug 29 : The City Crime Branch police registered a case against Chennai Deputy Mayor Magesh Kumar over a cheating complaint filed by the wife of a deceased businessman, said officials on Tuesday.

Police said that a woman, Esakki Ammal, widow of S.R. Mohan, who was running a quarry business along with other partners, had filed the complaint.

The quarry named, aMass Minesa was operated at Tambaram, and Mohan passed away in 2021 due to certain illness.

According to the police charge sheet, two partners of S.R. Mohan, Gunasekaran and Balamurugan brought in Deputy Mayor, Magesh Kumar as a director of business.

Esakki Ammal in her complaint said the partners of her deceased husband and Deputy Mayor Magesh Kumar took over the business without giving her any compensation.

The CCB has registered a case against six persons, including Magesh Kumar and an investigation is on.
Thiruvananthapuram, Aug 29 : Malayalam star Mohanlal celebrated Onam with style and great fervour dressed up in a traditional outfit, and wished "Happy Onam" to all Malayalees.

Taking to his social media, the actor showed himself, celebrating Onam with style and great fervour, dressed up in a traditional outfit and partaking in the long time rituals that come as part and parcel of the festival.

Mohanlal on his Instagram posted a whole reel of himself celebrating the occasion, dressed up in traditional white Kasavu clothing, donning mundu and a matching kurta .

He proceeds to open the door and then partakes in Onam Poolkalam, or a sort of Rangoli during the festival where a floral design is created on ground with flowers as homage to the spirits of King Mahabali and Vamana.

Speaking in Malayalam with beautiful classical music playing in the background, he proudly said, captioning the video: "My heartfelt Thiruvonam to all Malayalees."

Fans took to Instagram to wish the actor a happy Onam, with various netizens writing: "Happy Onam Laletta."

Another netizen called him: "Lord Jagannthanan of Kanimangalam Kovilkaram!"

The ten-day festival is always celebrated with much fervour by the 63-year old superstar with much enthusiasm and passion, which is seen every year as he has visited the Thrikkakkara Vamana Moorthy Temple in Kochi, several times with various devotees.

Mohanalal was most recently seen in superstar Rajiniknath-starrer film 'Jailer' which has become a massive success, and had become all the rage in Kerala and among Malayalees due to the actoras small role in the film.

Before that he was seen in the Tamil film 'Kaappann' and will next be seen in his upcoming film 'Barroz: Guardian of D'Gama's Treasure' which will mark the actor's directorial debut.
Kolkata, Aug 29 : Calcutta High Court's single- judge bench of Justice Amrita Sinha has sought a report from the Enforcement Directorate (ED) on the progress of investigation against Trinamool Congress' national general secretary and party Lok Sabha member Abhishek Banerjee in connection to the multi-crore cash for school job case in West Bengal.

Justice Sinha has directed ED to submit the report at her bench by September 14.

Justice Sinha also raised questions on why the central agency did not summon Banerjee again in the matter after sending him a notice just once.

She was not satisfied with the argument of the ED counsel that since Banerjee had already made a petition for expunging his name from the ambit of investigation in the school job case, the central agency is waiting for an order in the matter.

She also reacted to the submission of the ED counsel that no coercive action can be adopted unless a clear order in the petition on this count comes forth. "Does that mean that you will not progress with the investigation process?" Justice Sinha questioned.

Referring to a recent press statement from ED, she questioned the progress of investigation against the chief executive officer of a corporate entity linked to the school job case named in the said statement issued by the central agency in the matter.

On Tuesday, Justice Sinha also said that from now on the central agency probe on the multi- crore municipalities recruitment case in West Bengal will also be court-monitored.

The ED also faced strong criticism over a central agency officer during a raid at the office of the said corporate entity last week downloading a personal file inadvertently from a computer of the same entity.

The ED officialwhile searching for a students' hostel for his daughter, who has recently got admitted to one of the reputed engineering universities in the state, downloaded a hostel-related file. Justice Sinha described such an action on part of an investigating official while being on duty as highly irresponsible.
Bhopal, Aug 29 : The Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) of the Madhya Pradesh police has arrested one person for allegedly helping in Naxal activities.

The arrested person was identified as Dhan Singh Pungati, a resident of neighbouring state Chhattisgarh, a press note issued by the MP police said on Tuesday. It stated that during interrogation, Pungati confessed to being involved in Naxal activities for the last several years. As per the police, the arrested person was providing the Naxals with food and cash, besides conveying their messages and carrying out any work assigned by them.

"The ATS arrested Pungati, a resident of Kanker (Chhattisgarh) from Kalpi village in MP on August 25 when he was going to Mandla from Jabalpur," the release said. Pungati was nabbed following information received during the interrogation of Naxal leader Ashok Reddy and Kumari Potai aka Remati, who were arrested on August 21, the police said. Pungati told the police that he got acquainted with Reddy through another Naxalite named Vijay. On the instructions of Vijay, Pungati had arranged a vehicle for Reddy and made other arrangements, the release said.

On August 21, Ashok Reddy, who was accused in more than 60 criminal cases and wanted by the police in four states, was arrested by the MP ATS from Jabalpur, officials had said earlier.
New Delhi, Aug 29 : The Supreme Court on Tuesday adjourned hearing on a plea filed by Maharashtra's Amravati MP Navneet Kaur Rana against an order of the Bombay High Court which had cancelled her Scheduled Caste certificate.

A bench comprising Justices J.K. Maheshwari and K.V. Vishwanathan fixed the plea for further hearing on September 5.

Earlier in June 2021, the Supreme Court had stayed the operation of the Bombay High Court which cancelled her caste certificate saying it was obtained by using fabricated documents. It had remarked that the High Court ought to have sent the matter back to the committee for fresh consideration.

Complainants, at whose instance the High Court had cancelled Ranaas caste certificate, opposed the extension of SC stay order saying that she has been enjoying a stay for two years and continues as a Member of Parliament.

In her special leave petition, Rana pleaded that the terms Mochi and Chamar are synonymous, and the scrutiny committee had decided her caste status based on original records produced before it.

The High Court had reversed the scrutiny committee's decision on writ petitioners' claim that the vigilance committee had found that documents were fabricated. In its order, the HC had also imposed a cost of Rs 2 lakh, which Rana was to deposit with the Maharashtra Legal Services Authority within two weeks.

Rana, a first-time Member of Parliament (MP), had successfully contested the Amravati Lok Sabha seat in 2019, reserved for Scheduled Castes.
Seoul, Aug 29 : The South Korean industry ministry said on Tuesday it signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Samsung Electronics, SK hynix and other chip firms to cooperate on technology development for advanced semiconductor packaging.

Under the MOU, the government and chipmakers agreed to work together to secure leading technologies in advanced semiconductor packaging and to nurture companies in the final steps of semiconductor manufacturing, according to the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy.

The agreement was signed by the two South Korean chip giants, as well as LG Chem Ltd., several outsourced semiconductor assembly and test firms and fabless companies, reports Yonhap news agency.

The South Korean government is pushing for new research and development projects in the advanced packaging field and the system semiconductor sector to lead the global market.

Advanced packaging requires state-of-the-art technologies, and it is gaining momentum as the next technological breakthrough in line with the growing demand for multifunctional devices.
Ahmedabad, Aug 29 : A woman in Ahmedabad fell victim to an attack by stray cows.

The incident was captured on camera, showing the ordeal the woman faced. The video footage shared on Tuesday shows a broad daylight attack on the woman as she walked alone on a street in Ahmedabad. The stray cows knocked her to the ground and persistently struck her. The woman's cries for help caught the attention of local residents, who managed to rescue her.

In another similar incident a woman sustained injuries after being attacked by a stray cow near her residence in Naroda Navarang. The woman was hospitalized with serious injuries. The video footage showed an initial attack by one cow, with eight more cows joining in. Reacting to the woman's cries the locals promptly rallied to her aid, rushing to the scene and driving away the cows. The injured woman was later hospitalized.

The Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation is now facing public criticism for its perceived failure to check the menace of stray cattle, despite receiving stringent directives from the High Court.
Srinagar, Aug 29 : After the Supreme Court asked the Centre on Tuesday whether there was a timeframe as to when statehood would be restored to J&K, top sources told IANS that the Centre would soon announce statehood for Jammu and Kashmir.

During Tuesday's hearing on Article 370 in the apex court, Chief Justice of India, D.Y. Chandrachud asked the Government of India whether there was a timeframe as to when J&K would get back its statehood.

Faced with the query of the CJI, the Centre is expected to soon make an important announcement regarding the restoration of statehood to J&K, top sources told IANS.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah had told Parliament that statehood would be restored to J&K once normalcy returns to the UT.

The most important political consequence of restoration of statehood to J&K would be that there would exist no reason to further delay holding the Legislative Assembly elections.

"Once they meet their own condition of restoring statehood after the return of normalcy, there would be no reason to delay the legislative assembly in J&K so that power is transferred to the elected representatives of the people," said a senior leader of the regional National Conference (NC) while adding that a formal reaction would soon be given by NC president, Dr. Farooq Abdullah.

The leaders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) said the restoration of statehood should be the first step towards ending people's suffering in J&K.

"We believe that the restoration of statehood would be the means and not the end in itself to undone the wrongs done on August 5, 2019 when Article 370 was unconstitutionally abrogated," said a top leader of the PDP, who like the NC said a formal statement would be given by the party president, Mehbooba Mufti.

Similarly, middle rung leaders of the J&K Apni Party headed by Syed Altaf Bukhari, Peoples Conference (PC) headed by Sajad Gani Lone and others have described the likely restoration of statehood to J&K as a much awaited decision.

Constitutional experts and senior advocates are discussing the constitutional and administrative implications of the restoration of statehood.

Speaking to IANS, senior advocate, Tasaduq Khwaja said, "Two constitutional and legal scenarios will emerge.

"If the Centre announces restoration of statehood to J&K as it existed on August 4, 2019, then the constitutional requirement would be to revisit the reorganisation which was done in J&K after downgrading of state.

"That would require revisiting/revoking all reorganisational decisions whether legal or administrative. Like the present AGMUT cadre of IAS and IPS will not remain relevant, it would have to be replaced by state cadres of these elite services as they existed before reorganisation.

"This will also apply to many other procedures, decisions and orders that were taken on the strength of the reorganisation of J&K.

"The second scenario would be the Centre announcing the upgrading of J&K to a state.

"This again would have consequences for example, the central administrative tribunal (CAT) will have no jurisdiction over J&K unless a fresh notification is issued otherwise then we would have a state administrative tribunal which would come into existence if the state so desires. If not, service matters will again have to be heard by the high court.

"Even the AGMUT cadre of elite services like the IAS and the IPS may require to be revisited.

"Thus in a nutshell, we will have to see in what form the statehood is granted. Is it at par with other states of the country or would it be like the NCR of Delhi".
Chandigarh, Aug 29 : A day after Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar said a Congress MLA has been issued notice by the police in connection with the July 31 Nuh violence, state Home minister Anil Vij on Tuesday alleged that MLA Mamman Khan was in touch with Nuh rioters.

The police have sent a notice to Mamman Khan asking him to appear for questioning on August 30, he told the media here.

"The police shall be questioning Congress MLA Mamman Khan tomorrow. The initial investigation so far has indicated that he was in contact with certain people who were involved in the violence," he said.

"As per our initial investigation, wherever arson and clashes occurred on July 28, 29 and 30, Mamman Khan went there and he was in live contact with those (rioters) at all those places. There are so many angles and so many theories are still coming. We are conducting a fair inquiry," the minister said.

The Home Minister was categorically clear in saying, "it is also being investigated why the cyber police station was particularly targeted by the rioters".

"As per the initial investigation, we have arrested approximately 510 people and we have registered 130-140 FIRs. After their interrogation, the conclusion that we are getting for now is that it looks like this has been done by Congress," he said.

A day earlier, Chief Minister Khattar took a jibe at the Congress asking the party to break its silence after one of its MLAs was sent a police notice to join the investigation. He said some other MLAs of the Congress were also allegedly involved in the violence.

Responding to the Chief Minister's assertion, senior Congress leader Bhupinder Hooda said there should be a judicial probe in the case but, "the Haryana government is running away".

On being asked if Khan will appear before the police, he replied, "Yes, he will."

Khan, the legislator from Ferozepur Jhirka, has been served a notice under Section 160 of the CrPC and has been told to remain present at the Nagina police station

Six people, including two home guards, were killed in the clashes that erupted in Nuh during a yatra organised by the Vishva Hindu Parishad.
Mumbai, Aug 29 : Actor Manuj Sharma, who is receiving a lot of good response to his work in the recently released streaming series 'Guns & Gulaabs', has said that his on-screen friendship with his co-actor and Bollywood star Rajkummar Rao is a reflection of the genuine equation that the two shared off-screen.

In the series, Manuj plays one of the henchmen of the Ghanchi gang, a mafia group that deals with opium. His character soon becomes a close friend of Rajkummar's character of Tipu, who joins the gang to avenge his best friend's murder by Gulshan Devaiah's character of '4 cut Atmaram'.

Talking about his camaraderie with Rajkummar, Manuj told IANS, "Being a part of 'Guns and Gulaabs' has truly been an amazing journey. The camaraderie I shared with Raj Kummar Bhai on set was something special. His ability to adapt and our seamless give-and-take approach during scenes added an authentic touch to our performances."

He further mentioned, "Our characters' on-screen friendship was a reflection of the genuine equation we had off-screen, making the show not just about acting, but about the real connections and shared moments that brought it to life. Also, with the guidance of my favourite director Raj & DK, the journey had been really incredible. It's an achievement for me as to work with them has always been in my wish list."

He also recently shared a post on his social media about his experience of shooting the series. Sharing an array of pictures from the making of the show, he wrote in the caption, "I got to spend an incredible time on the sets of 'Guns and Gulaabs'. What a great learning it has been. Thank you @rajanddk sir for having me. Ready to trade some secrets from the sets (sci)".
Mumbai, Aug 29 : Actor Prithviraj Sukumaran, who predominantly works in Tamil and Malayalam films, is celebrating Onam. The actor, who will be soon seen in the pan-India film 'Salaar', on Tuesday took to his social media to share pictures from his celebrations. He shared that though this was a forced break from work, he enjoyed the celebrations and the 'advantages' which came with the break.

The actor celebrated the festival of Onam in the true spirit of love and togetherness as he shared the pictures featuring his family members and close ones.

In the pictures, the actor can be seen dressed in a traditional mundu as he is all smiles posing for the camera. One of the pictures also shows him enjoying the traditional Sadhya off a banana leaf.

Sharing the pictures with his fans on social media, Prithviraj wrote in the caption, "Onam (heart emoji). I guess a forced rest has its own advantages".

Prithviraj is one of the biggest stars in Tamil and Malayalam cinema having received several awards including a National Film Award, 3 Kerala State Film Awards, and a Tamil Nadu State Film Award.

The actor, who had 6 releases in 2022, will be soon seen in a slew of releases. He has a busy year ahead with the release of 'Salaar' in which he will be seen along with Prabhas. The film has been directed by Prashanth Neel of aK.G.F.a fame. He also has 'Bade Miya Chote Miya' and 'Aadujeevitham' in the pipeline.
Surat, Aug 29 : A whale calf died after being stranded ashore for the second time within two days in Surat. Despite combined efforts from local residents and the forest department staff to rescue and safely release the mammal into the Arabian Sea, the attempts turned out to be in vain at the end.

There was a possibility of internal injuries hindering its ability to navigate the waters. Samples have been dispatched for testing, aiming to uncover the exact cause of its incident.

Sachin Gupta, Deputy Conservator of Forests (DCF), Surat, confirmed the death on Tuesday.

The series of events began after a calf of the Bryde's whale species was initially found stranded on the shore near Mor village in Olpad taluka of the district on the evening of August 27. Responding to the situation, approximately 150 villagers put forth tireless efforts to save the mammal.

On Monday afternoon, the mammal was released back into the sea utilising a bulldozer during high tide. Despite these efforts, the whale calf found itself once more stranded on the shore.

"The whale was carefully placed in a pond, ensuring its survival until high tide arrived. This vigilance enabled the calf to endure through the night. In our continued attempts, we employed a boat to guide the whale deeper into the sea. As time passed without sighting the calf, our optimism grew that it had successfully returned to the open waters," an official stated.

However, the whale was again pushed back ashore approximately 300 meters from its last location. Immediate action was taken, involving a veterinarian who examined the calf and declared it dead.

Following a subsequent post-mortem examination, the mammal was laid to rest. The examination revealed that the whale had not consumed food for an extended period, indicating an empty stomach.
Lucknow, Aug 29 : National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has issued a notice to the Government of Uttar Pradesh over the reported beating of a student by his classmates at the behest of his teacher referring to his faith in an absurd manner in Muzaffarnagar.

The National Human Rights Commission, NHRC, India has taken suo motu cognisance of media reports that a teacher of a private school, referring to the faith of one of her students in an absurd manner, ordered his classmates to beat him.

The school is located at Khubbapur village in Muzaffarnagar district of Uttar Pradesh.

Reportedly, the boyas family has said that he was beaten up for a mistake in the multiplication of tables, during the class. A video of the incident went viral on August 25, leading to calls for action against the teacher and the school.

The Commission has observed that the contents of the media report, if true, amount to a violation of the victim's human rights.

Accordingly, it has issued notices to the Chief Secretary and the Director General of Police, Uttar Pradesh calling for a detailed report in the matter within four weeks.

It should include the action taken against the teacher, the status of the FIR registered in the matter and compensation if any, paid to the aggrieved family, as well as steps taken/proposed to be taken to ensure that such shameful incidents do not recur in the future.

According to the media report, the teacher, who also owns the school, has not been arrested yet. The boyas family has already taken him out of the school and is looking for a new school.
Delhi HC issues notice on plea by think-tank Centre for Policy Research against FCRA licence suspension. Image Source: IANS News

New Delhi, Aug 29 : The Delhi High Court on Tuesday issued notice on a plea filed by a think-tank, the Centre for Policy Research (CPR), against the suspension of its licence under the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA) by the Centre.

Justice Subramonium Prasad also directed the Centre to make a decision on CPR's application for the release of 25 pee cent of funds, which the think-tank had moved after the FCRA licence suspension.

The court asked the government to make this decision before September 5.

During the hearing, the Centre's counsel mentioned that after the suspension order was passed on February 27, CPR received a show cause notice on August 01 and responded on August 25.

CPR then submitted an application under Rule 14 while the FCRA licence was suspended.

The counsel for Centre stated that the government is following the procedure diligently and is examining the matter carefully.

On the other side, Senior Advocate Arvind Datar, representing CPR, requested the release of funds as an interim measure to pay the salaries of employees who haven't been paid for the past six months.

CPR's counsel said that the organisation is no ordinary NGO and is the leading think-tank in India.

He said that all allegations in the show cause notice relate to the years 2018 and 2019, and audits by the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) and the Home Ministry had found no wrongdoing.

Regarding the application seeking an interim stay of the suspension order, Datar said hat CPR's operations had come to a halt due to the lack of foreign contributions.

Justice Prasad asked the Union Government to decide on CPR's application for the release of 25 per cent funds, pointing out that five months had passed without a decision being made.

The Union Ministry of Home Affairs suspended CPR's FCRA licence following surveys conducted by the Income Tax Department on the organisation's premises.

The suspension lasts for 180 days during which the organisation cannot receive foreign funding, and the foreign funding account's money can only be used with prior approval from the Union Government.
Hyderabad, Aug 29 : In a shocking incident, a ragpicker woman was raped and bludgeoned to death by unidentified persons in Hyderabad, police said on Tuesday.

The woman's decomposed body was found in an under-construction building premises in Nanakramguda in Financial District on Tuesday.

The incident occurred under the limits of Gachibowli Police Station of Cyberabad Police Commissionerate.

Police identified the deceased as Kasemma (38), a ragpicker and resident of Vaddera Basti, Gowlidoddy in Hyderabad. She had gone missing on August 25.

According to police, she had left the house after a quarrel with her daughter. Her family had lodged a missing person complaint with Gachibowli police.

Police rushed to the spot after being alerted by some locals. A forensic team gathered the evidence. The victim's body was shifted to a hospital for autopsy.

Police suspect that the woman was raped when she went to the under construction building to collect scrap. The accused threw a boulder on her head, killing her.

A case was registered and further investigation is underway.

Meanwhile, Telangana Governor Dr. Tamilisai Soundararajan has expressed profound anguish on the incident. She has sought comprehensive report regarding the incident from the Chief Secretary, the Director General of Police, and the Cyberabad Police Commissioner in 48 hours.
Bali : , Aug 29 (IANS) It is not new technology, but Artificial Intelligence (AI) is now raising concerns with the advent of generative AI tools like ChatGPT, which may have significant repercussions across the cyber landscape, as they foster phenomenon like "suffering distancing syndrome", "responsibility delegation", and "AI hallucination" for those simply using it to find or validate information, says a senior Kaspersky Labs cyberthreat expert.

"With the rise of generative AI, we have seen a breakthrough of technology that can synthesise content very similar to what humans do: from images to sound, deepfake videos, and even text-based conversations indistinguishable from human peers...

"All of that sounds so unusual and sudden, that some people become worried. Some predict that AI will be right in the centre of the apocalypse, which will destroy human civilisation.

"Multiple C-level executives of large corporation stood up and called for slowdown of AI to prevent the calamity," Kaspersky's Global Research and Analysis Team (GReAT), Asia Pacific, leader Vitaly Kamluk said in a presentation at the Kaspersky Cybersecurity Weekend 2023, titled "Deus Ex Machina: Setting Secure Directives for Smart Machines", held in Indonesia's Bali over the weekend.

"But is AI really the cause for apocalypse or is it just one scary painting we should put on the wall as a reminder of how things may go wrong? Is AI a threat or a salvation for mankind?" he asked, in the presentation created using 100 per cent AI-generated content and integrating Chat GPT too.

Kamluk, who has spent over 18 years in Kaspersky - including two years secondment as a cybersecurity expert to Interpol in Singapore, stressed that first we have to distinguish between terms like AI, Machine Learning, Large Language Models, and Chat GPT, "which are used interchangeably and can create confusion".

He said when we refer to AI, it means a variant of AI-based system, and AI is a field of computer science to create systems capable of performing tasks that cannot be solved with a traditional algorithm and usually require human intelligence. These tasks include understanding and generating natural language, recognising patterns, making decisions, and learning from experience.

A subfield of AI, Machine Learning focuses on enabling computers to perform tasks without strictly defined algorithms. That is made possible due to training and reinforcement techniques, he added.

ChatGPT, or Chat Generative Pre-training Transformer, is a Large Language Model developed by OpenAI, coming under the broader umbrella of AI and more specifically, Machine Learning, and learning from a large dataset containing parts of the internet and using patterns in the data to generate responses to user prompts.

LLM, Kamluk defined, as a type of AI model that's been trained on a vast amount of text data, but while they are good at mimicking human-like text, they don't truly understand the content like humans and generate responses based on patterns they've learned during their training, and not based on any inherent understanding or consciousness.

"Thus, ChatGPT, well we can generalise it now to LLMs, do not have mechanisms to perceive the world as humans do. Their input is only text, they donat have sensors to perceive images, sound or using other human senses," he added.

Kamluk stressed that AI "needs to be taken with a grain of salt and that people need to be aware of AI hallucination, as it is a phenomena present among all LLMs, including ChatGPT" and there is no cure for it.

In his presentation, Kamluk asked ChatGPT if he had co-authored any books, to which it responded with two book titles - which were actually the subjects of his specialisations, and then, asked again, responded with 10 titles, also naming co-authors, and even his favourite cocktail!

He clarified that he, in fact, has not written any books and that this phenomenon, called hallucinations, is what people need to be aware of.

aIt is all fine and harmless until it's not. Some businesses already rushed into offering new services like AI-based plagiarism detection with very impressive self-assessed qualitative analysis, with a 98 per cent rate of detecting plagiarism.

aAs a result, there were a number of incidents where students were wrongly accused of generating their whole works with LLMs and itas impossible to prove that it is their original work and not by AI. Imagine how much is lost by accusing them of this," he said.

But, there is a darker side too, especially where cybercrime is concerned.

Use of AI in cyberattacks can potentially result in a psychological hazard known as "suffering distancing syndrome" where AI becomes a barrier between the scammer and the victim and the former feel no remorse for the consequences of their acts.

"Physically assaulting someone on the street causes criminals a lot of stress because they often see their victimas suffering. That doesnat apply to a virtual thief who is stealing from a victim they will never see. Creating AI that magically brings the money or illegal profit distances the criminals even further, because itas not even them, but the AI to be blamed," Kamluk contended.

Another psychological impact of AI that can affect IT security teams is "responsibility delegation", where, as cybersecurity processes and tools become automated and delegated to neural networks, humans may feel less responsible if a cyberattack occurs, especially in a company setting.

So is AI a boon or bane for mankind? Kamluk held that like most technological breakthroughs, it is a double-edged sword and people can always use it to their advantage, as long as they know how to draw the parameters to ensure its ethical use.

"I do have hope in humanity and the intelligence of mankind that it will be used to improve our lives...," he said, listing some ways that people and businesses can reap the benefits, including restricting anonymous access to real intelligent systems, having proper regulations, including for detecting AI-developed content, licensing AI developers and especially, awareness among people.

(Vikas Datta can be contacted at vikas.d@ians.in)
New Delhi, Aug 29 : The Union cabinet on Tuesday lauded the success of the Chandrayan-3 mission and appreciated the achievement of scientists.

"This is not just a victory for our space agency but is a bright symbol of India's progress and ascent on the global stage," a resolution passed by the Union cabinet said.

The cabinet welcomes the proposal that August 23 would be celebrated as the "National Space Day" it said further.

The cabinet congratulated the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) for its efforts.

"Thanks to our scientists, India is the first country to land near the Moon's south pole. Landing on the moon, with predicted accuracy, in itself is a momentous achievement," the resolution added.

"The Cabinet firmly believes that in an era defined by rapid technological advancements and the quest for innovation, India's scientists stand as shining beacons of knowledge, dedication and expertise," the resolution said.
Ahmedabad: Kiran Patel, who stands accused of cheating, forgery, and impersonating a PMO official, was brought to the Crime Branch office by officials in Ahmedabad on Saturday, April 08, 2023.(IANS / Siddharaj Solanki). Image Source: IANS News

Srinagar, Aug 29 : Gujarat conman Kiran Bhai Patel was granted bail on Tuesday by a court in J-K's Srinagar city.

The court of chief judicial magistrate (CJM) Srinagar on Tuesday granted bail to conman Kiran Bhai Patel.

The court directed the counsel of the accused to furnish a bail bond to the tune of 1 lakh with 2 sureties.

J&K police had arrested Patel on March 3, 2023 for allegedly impersonating as an additional director for strategy and campaigns in the Prime Ministeras office.

The authorities said that Patel got facilities normally given to officials from the PMO including a bulletproof car, security personnel and official accommodation at a five-star hotel during his visitsa to Jammu and Kashmir.
Bengaluru, Aug 29 : Karnataka police have launched a manhunt to nab the accused who tried to attack a scientist and chased him, shattering his car glass with swords.

The incident was reported on August 24 in the Madanayakanahalli police station. The police said that the investigation is underway and have also conducted spot inspection to track down the accused.

Ashutosh Singh, a scientist at the Centre for Nano and Soft Matter Sciences (CeNS) had a narrow escape while travelling on Ravuthanahalli Main Road in outskirts of Bengaluru after a group of goons tried to stop his car.

When Ashutosh did not stop, the goons -- holding swords -- chased him and shattered the rear glass of his vehicle. The incident had left the scientist traumatised while the scientistalso filed a police complaint.

The scientist has demanded urgent action regarding the incident.

Traffic ADGP (Traffic) Alokkumar responded to him on social media saying that it is a serious case and he has directed the concerned officials to take stringent action.
(BHARAT JODO 2.0) On foot, then by bus, Maha Cong to go across state and expose BJP. Image Source: IANS News

Mumbai, Aug 29 : The Maharashtra Congress will accord a grand felicitation to party MP Rahul Gandhi for standing up without fear before the 'dictatorial' Bharatiya Janata Party government, state party President Nana Patole said here on Tuesday.

For his courage in facing the vendetta of the BJP government without wavering, the state Congress will give Gandhi a grand felicitation here on Friday evening  in the presence of top leaders from all over India.

The grand felicitation programme will follow after the two-day National Opposition's I.N.D.I.A. conclave that will be held at a five-star hotel in Santacruz on Aug.31-Sep.01.

"We have made full preparations to give a grand welcome to Rahul Gandhi when he steps in the land of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Rahul Gandhi has given the message of 'fearlessness' to the tyrannical regime of the government of Prime Minister Narendra Modi," said Patole.

He recalled how the government had made false cases and accusations against Gandhi, disqualified him as a Lok Sabha Member and forced him to vacate his official residence, but he did not bend.

"After the Supreme Court verdict, the government had to restore Gandhi's MP status. He took part in the no-confidence motion against the Modi government recently and attacked the regime on various issues, including the burning issue of Manipur," said Patole.

Accompanied by senior leaders including state Working President M. Arif Naseem Khan, ex-CM Prithviraj Chavan, Dr. Bhalchandra Mungekar, state Women Wing President Sandhya Savvalakhe, and others, Patole interacted with mediapersons after a review of the final preparations for the upcoming I.N.D.I.A. conclave along with top leaders of the Congress-Shiv Sena (UBT)-Nationalist Congress Party (Sharad Pawar).

The top Congress leadership including President Mallikarjun Kharge, General Secretary K. C. Venugopal and others shall attend Gandhi's felicitation programme at the state Congress headquarters in Dadar.

Responding to a question, Patole said that "there is no competition or confusion" among the Maha Vikas Aghadi allies on the seat-sharing issue for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections.

"The leaders of the parties, including Uddhav Thackeray have said that the seat allocation will be as per merits and we have also taken the same stand," said Patole, indirectly junking Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut's demand that his party would contest minimum 19 of the 48 parliamentary seats.

Slamming the BJP's criticism of the I.N.D.I.A. Conclave, Chavan said that 28 parties across the country have come together and this has scared Modi and the NDA.

He pointed out that in the 2019 Lok Sabha polls, 62 percent of the people voted against Modi-BJP, but this time, the Opposition parties have decided not to allow such division of votes which can benefit the BJP.

"As the National Opposition alliance becomes stronger, the rattled BJP is attempting to promote some parties like Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) of Telangana to split the Opposition votes," Chavan pointed out.
New Delhi, Aug 29 : Delhi Minister Saurabh Bhardwaj on Tuesday said that AAP is not quitting the INDIA alliance as there is no reason for the party to withdraw from the alliance.

When asked about the rumors surrounding AAP's stance on leaving the INDIA alliance, Bhardwaj said that they would remain part of the alliance.

"Why would we quit? We will continue," Bhardwaj told IANS.

Earlier, there were reports that AAP Rajya Sabha MP Sandeep Pathak had mentioned AAP's plans to contest elections in Bihar. However, when contacted, Pathak's office dismissed the claims as rumors, clarifying that Sandeep has not made any such statements about contesting elections in Bihar.

So far, two meetings of the opposition-led INDIA alliance have taken place. During the second meeting, UPA officially named the alliance as 'INDIA.'

The third alliance meeting is scheduled to be held in Mumbai on August 31.

AAP has confirmed its participation in this upcoming meeting.
New Delhi: A view of the Supreme Court in New Delhi on Tuesday, Feb. 28, 2023. (Photo: Wasim Sarvar/IANS). Image Source: IANS News

New Delhi, Aug 29 : The Supreme Court on Tuesday adjourned, to October 3, the hearing in a plea filed by Vikas Yadav, son of Uttar Pradesh politician D.P. Yadav, against denial of remission of his sentence in connection with the 2002 Nitish Katara murder case.

A bench of Justices Aniruddha Bose and Sanjay Kumar was urged by senior advocate Aparajita Singh and advocate Durga Dutt, appearing for the complainant Nilam Katara- mother of the deceased, that the accused's writ petition ought to be dismissed.

The petition sought directions that the benefits of remission is part of the right to personal liberty as protected under Article 21 of Constitution. It contended that no criminal court can pass a sentence fixing the minimum sentence of 25 years in a case of life imprisonment to get eligible for grant of remission.

In the sensational case, Vikas Yadav and his cousin Vishal Yadav, among others, were convicted and sentenced to 25 years of actual imprisonment without consideration of remission for kidnapping Katara from a marriage party in February 2002 and then killing him for his alleged affair with Vikas' sister Bharti Yadav.

Another co-convict, Sukhdev Pehalwan, was handed a 20-year jail term.

Katara was murdered as Vishal and Vikas Yadav did not approve of his affair with Bharti because they belonged to different castes, the lower court had observed in its verdict.
New Delhi, Aug 29 : Actor Vipin Sharma, who is enjoying the response to his recently released black comedy series, 'Guns & Gulaabs', has looked back on what it was like working with late co-star Satish Kaushik in the series, saying the latter was full of life, and he always felt at ease working with him.

Reminiscing about Satish Kaushik, Vipin said, "When we were in the National School of Drama, we used to hear about our seniors who moved to Bombay to work in films. We felt safe knowing we had a network of people to turn to if and when we decided to move to the city to pursue acting. Naseeruddin Shah and Om Puri were a few such names, but there was another name we heard who wasnat acting but was assisting filmmakers. That was Satish Kaushik ji."

"After a long hiatus from acting post 'Taare Zameen Par', I was once invited to a party and I have a very vivid memory of meeting Satish ji there. I felt I had met a very simple man, who was very grounded and humble. We exchanged numbers and I stayed in touch with him ever since. Then, 'Guns & Gulaabs' happened and I got to spend a lot of time with him on and off set. Satish was always full of life, and the way he narrated stories from various shoots was hilarious," said the 61-year-old actor.

He further said: "We all sat around him like children around a campfire listening attentively. There was never a dull moment with him around. Every day when we met in the evening he would very proudly tell me 'Vipin aaj 8000 steps walk kiya yaar maza aa gaya'."

Talking about acting with the maestro, Vipin said: "As a co-actor, I always felt at ease with him. He never made any of us feel that he was the senior actor amongst us. He always paid attention to his character and dialogue. He always sought to deliver his monologues in the funniest possible way. He was also very courageous and was an active part of the stunts coordinated for him."

"My best memory with him is when Adarsh Gourav, Satish ji and I flew together. Before the flight, we met for breakfast and he asked the chef to pack something for him. On the flight when we were served food he opened the take-away bag and we realized that he had gotten some bajra rotis for all of us. I feel I am fortunate that I got to act with him and also got a glimpse of his kindness. His commitment as an actor and his love for people around him will always be an inspiration," he added.

Satish Kaushik died due to a heart attack on March 9, at the age of 66.

Vipin plays the character of 'Mahendra' in 'Guns & Gulaabs'. The show is a comedy crime thriller created and directed by Raj and DK. Set against the backdrop of the gritty 1990s underworld, it features Rajkummar Rao, Dulquer Salmaan, Adarsh Gourav, Vipin Sharma and TJ Bhanu in lead roles.

It is a captivating narrative of 'firsts', set in the early '90s in the unpredictable and precarious town called Gulaabganj. The series is an ode to Bollywood in the 1990s, bringing back the charms of the decade. The genre-blending series intertwines romance, comedy, action, pulp, thrill, and twists, with young adult themes.

Created by the duo Raj & DK, 'Guns & Gulaabs' bears their original comedy signature throughout. Against the backdrop of comedic power struggles and revenge plots, the series blends genres as it follows a lovestruck mechanic, a reluctant heir to a ruling gang and an honest officer-turned-agent-of-chaos.

The show is streaming on Netflix.
Mumbai, Aug 29 : The upcoming biographical film 'Golda', directed by Oscar-winning Guy Nattiv will navigate the controversial life of the former Israeli Prime Minister, Golda Mier, which will be played by actress Helen Mirren. Talking about her casting, Nattiv called Mirren the best choice for the film.

Talking about working with Helen Mirren, the Oscar-winning director said, "A lot of people ask me how it was working with Helen (Mirren). I'm always saying that I don't know how I will work with other actors now because working with her was so perfect in every sense. When I joined the project, Helen was already attached".

"We had a Zoom in the midst of the COVID pandemic and she asked me why I think she should play Golda. I told her that 'You have the soul, you have the intelligence, and the vibe of Golda. For me, as an Israeli, and as Jewish, it doesn't matter if you're not Jewish, you're one of the best actresses of our time and you are Golda to me'," he added.

Upon witnessing her appearance and her uncanny depiction with the former Israeli Prime Minister, Nattiv said, "When I saw her on the first day on set with all the prosthetics I was blown away. My jaw dropped and I was like, this IS Golda. She really depicted every nuance and every move. I am very grateful for working with a legend."

'Golda' being a biographical film will extensively dive into life and many of the challenges faced by the former Israeli PM, who is noted to have historically been both a formidable female leader, and a controversial figure.

The film will focus on the inquiries called by the Agranat Commission during the 1973 oil crisis and the shortcomings of the Israeli Defense Forces during the Yom Kippur War, also called the fourth Arab-Israel war.

The film, alongside Helen Mirren, will also star Camille Cottin, Liev Schreiber, Ed Stoppard, and Henry Goodman in lead roles, and is set to release in theaters on September 1, 2023, distributed by Lionsgate and PVRINOX Pictures.
Mysuru, Aug 29 : Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah announced on Tuesday that this year's Dasara festival will be inaugurated by renowned music director Hamsalekha.

Sources in the Congress government said that Hamsalekha has been chosen to snub the 'right' wingers.

Siddaramaiah spoke to reporters on Tuesday after visiting Chamundi Hill and made the announcement.

"We are getting the Dasara festivities inaugurated by Hamsalekha, the noted Kannada music composer from the film industry," he stated.

Hamsalekha had stirred a controversy by objecting to religious pontiffs, leaders making a visit to the houses of Dalits, instead he recommended them to take Dalits to their houses.

"Whether it is Vishwesha Tirtha swamiji (late Pejawar Mutt swamiji) or politicians like H.D. Kumaraswamy (former CM), Dr. C.N. Ashwathnarayan, R. Ashoka (former Dy CMs and present BJP MLAs), it is not enough if they make visits to the houses of Dalits. It is important that they take Dalits to their houses," Hamsalekha had stated.

He stated that they should also eat non-vegetarian food cooked by Dalits at their houses. "Will they (who visit Dalit's houses) eat dishes made out of sheep's blood?" Since the statements were made against Pejawar seer and at a time when BJP leaders were visiting Dalit's houses, it stoked a huge controversy.

The right wingers had slammed him for asking the religious pontiff to eat non-vegetarian food.

Hamsalekha had to take back his statements and this had angered progressive thinkers. Hamsalekha is a popular music director who ruled the Kannada film industry for decades. He has created the maximum number of hit songs which are still enjoyed by music lovers.
The delegation led by the Chief of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of the Republic of Turkiye, Army General Metin Gurak, who is on an official visit to Azerbaijan, visited the graves of the National Leader of Azerbaijani people Heydar Aliyev and prominent ophthalmologist, academician Zarifa Aliyeva in the Alley of Honor, as well as the Alley of Shehids (Martyrs) and Turkish Martyrs' Cemetery, Azernews reports, citing the Ministry.

The guests laid flowers and honored their blessed memory.

A solemn welcoming ceremony was held at the General Staff of the Azerbaijan Army, and the Chiefs of the General Staff of both countries passed along the guard of honor. The national anthems of Azerbaijan and Turkiye accompanied by the military orchestra were performed. In accordance with the protocol, Army General Metin Gurak signed the Book of Honor.

Then the First Deputy Minister of Defense  Chief of the General Staff of the Azerbaijan Army, Colonel General Karim Valiyev had a meeting with his Turkish counterpart.

Welcoming the guests, Colonel General K. Valiyev congratulated Army General M.Gurak on his appointment to the post of Chief of the General Staff of the Turkish Armed Forces and expressed his satisfaction with seeing them in Azerbaijan.

Colonel General K. Valiyev expressed his condolences to his Turkish colleague regarding the glorious Turkish Army`s serviceman becoming a Shehid in the region where Pence-Kilit (Claw-Lock) counter-terrorism operations were conducted.

It was especially emphasized that the bilateral and multinational exercises conducted jointly with the fraternal country have a positive effect on raising the professional level of military personnel.

Army General Metin Gurak thanked for the cordial meeting and expressed his satisfaction with his first official visit to Azerbaijan as the Chief of General Staff of the Turkish Armed Forces. Army General M. Gurak noted the importance of the joint events planned to be held in 2024 with the participation of Azerbaijani and Turkish servicemen.

The meeting discussed the results of the work carried out in the direction of further expansion of cooperation in military, military-technical, military-educational, and other fields, as well as as the importance of implementing these activities more intensively. The parties exchanged detailed views on a number of other issues of mutual interest.
New Delhi, Aug 29 : Ram Manohar Lohia (RML) Hospital Director Dr Ajay Shukla on Tuesday informed that preparations are in full swing in the hospital to tackle any health emergency during the forthcoming G20 Summit.

Apprising about the arrangements, Dr Shukla while taking to IANS said, "Our preparations are in full swing. We will have to have a massive readiness so that if any health issue happens with anyone, we will be able to take care."

"We will have 50 beds arrangement in general ward (in the hospital). There will be minimum four ICU beds and it might increase also", the Director said.

In addition to that, Dr Shukla also informed that the hospital will also have arrangement of five private rooms.

The Director said that arrangements are being made for the entry and exit.

Dr Shukla told IANS, "More than 100 ambulances will be deployed (at various locations during the Summit). Ambulances will be stationed at Bharat Mandapam (G20 venue at Pragati Maidan), hotels as well as different locations (to tackle any health emergency)."

"RML has been made nodal hospital to tackle any biological disaster," he said.

He said that we will also conduct a mock drill on Saturday and next week too.

Sources told IANS that the hospital is likely to manage 16 CATS ambulance during the event.

Arrangements are also being made in Delhi All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS).

The G20 summit is scheduled to be held in Delhi on September 9 and 10.

---IANS

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New Delhi, Aug 29 : Actress Prachi Bohra, who is currently playing the role of Richa in the show 'Kundali Milan', has opened up on how she celebrates 'Rakshabandhan' with her family, calling it a cherished festival for her.

Talking about the festival, she said: "Rakshabandhan has always been a cherished festival for me. It's not just about the rituals; it's the anticipation of those wonderful gifts that used to make my heart race with excitement. Gathered with my cousins, we'd dive into the celebrations, creating memories together and then in the evening, my sisters and I would huddle up, comparing our collections and laughing away."

She further shared: "Speaking of sisters, on our set, there's one person who's truly like family to me a" my on screen sister, Anjali (Shubhanshi Raghuwanshi). We share a bond that's beyond just acting; we're inseparable like sisters from different walks of life, the best of friends and trusted confidantes."

"As for my real brother, well, he's in for a surprise if I get a day off! At the moment, it's a secret waiting to unfold. But here's the fun part a" just like him, I'm clueless about his plans too. It's like a delightful puzzle we're both figuring out together, let's hope we get to celebrate it together keeping fingers crossed," she added.

As the story unfolds, the lives of Yash (Ankit Bathla), Anjali (Shubhanshi), and Richa (Prachi) become woven together by important choices. Yash's strong decision to continue his marriage with Anjali leaves Richa heartbroken. Adding a twist, Aditya (Gaurav Bajpai) enters, stirring up more drama in the lives of Anjali and Yash. Richa is devastated and wants Yash back. It will be interesting to see what lies ahead for the sisters.

aKundali Milana airs on Shemaroo Umang.
Jaipur, Aug 29 : Rashtriya Loktantrik Party (RLP) MP Hanuman Beniwal, while giving a controversial statement on Tuesday, said that the post of governor is useless as it costs a lot.

He said, "Most of the Governors are given the post when they cross the age of 80. To remove a candidate from mainstream politics, he is made to sit as a governor. Anyway, the post of Governor is useless. It costs a lot. You will also be shocked if you see their expense on tea, breakfast and food. While their work is limited to read what is given by government in writing, the government should rather read it itself. After all, why is there a post of governor for this small task? It should be abolished as the governor is only doing the job of a postman."

Beniwal did not stop here and also attacked former deputy Chief Minister Sachin Pilot saying that he has tarnished his own image. While speaking at a Press conference in Jaipur on Tuesday, Beniwal said, "If Pilot had left his party in time, RLP and Sachin Pilot together would have won 100 seats in Rajasthan."

Speaking on the cancellation of student union election in Rajasthan, Beniwal said that he was very angry with the state after cancelling the student union elections. "In such a situation, now we will take out a rally against the government at the district level. Along with this, a student panchayat will be organised on September 14 at Vidyadhar Nagar Stadium in Jaipur. More than one lakh youth will take part in it.

Beniwal further demanded inquiry into allegations of corruption levelled by former leader of opposition Kailash Meghwal against Union minister Arjun Ram Meghwal.

Repeating his earlier allegations on 'Gehlot-Vasundhara together in corruption', he quipped about Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot's 2030 vision. He said when Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot will not be there in 2030, then what is the vision being released after all?
New Delhi, Aug 29 : The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Tuesday filed its reply before a Delhi court on the application of Congress leader Jagdish Tytler, who is accused in the Pul Bangash killings during the 1984 anti-Sikh riots, seeking court records from the year 1984 till 2023.

Additional Chief Metropolitan Magistrate (ACMM), Vidhi Gupta Anand of Rouse Avenue Court noted that counsel for CBI has supplied a copy of reply with copies of certain documents to Tytler's counsel.

Tytler's counsel sought some time for advancing submissions stating that some time is required to go through the reply as well as the documents.

Anand then adjourned the matter and put it up for arguments on the application for September 6.

The ACMM had, on August 11, given 10 days to Tytler to review documents provided by the CBI, including the charge sheet. Later on August 21, Anand adjourned the matter after the probe agency sought time to advance arguments on Tytler's application seeking certain documents.

"PP (Public Prosecutor) for CBI seeks some time to file reply to the aforesaid application. Be filed by the next date of hearing with advance copy to Counsel for the accused. Matter be now put up for reply, if any/arguments on the application/further proceedings on August 29," the judge had said.

The court had approved the request of Tytler's counsel, who initially asked for two weeks to go through the materials. Tytler had, on August 10, filed a request with the court to be allowed to attend proceedings through video conferencing. The plea was presented in court on the grounds of security concerns. Tytler's advocate has appealed for the court's authorisation for his client to participate remotely, citing a recent protest by the Sikh community during Tytler's in-person appearance on August 5.

On August 5, the court accepted a bail bond by Tytler. The development came a day after Special Judge Vikas Dhull had granted anticipatory bail to Tytler.

Tytler's wife, Jennifer, stood security for him in the case, and the court verified her identity and financial status. After noting that she was financially independent, the court had accepted her as a surety.

Tytler was brought to court amid high security. The Delhi Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee (DSGMC) members had staged a protest outside Rouse Avenue Court, raising slogans while holding placards and posters which read "Jise honi thi jail use kyu mili bail?

A minor clash was also reported between the protestors and police.

The case pertains to when the Gurdwara Pul Bangash at Azad Market was set on fire by a mob on November 1, 1984 and three persons, namely Sardar Thakur Singh, Badal Singh, and Gurcharan Singh, were burnt to death. The incident took place a day after then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi was assassinated by her Sikh bodyguards.

In its charge sheet filed before the court, the CBI has said that Tytler incited, instigated, and provoked the mob that had assembled at the gurdwara, which resulted in the burning down of the shrine and killing of the three persons. Charges under Sections 147 (rioting), 109 (abetment) read with 302 (murder) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), among others, have been invoked against Tytler by the probe agency.

On June 2, the Rouse Avenue Courts had approved a supplementary charge sheet filed by the CBI against Tytler in the riots case and also transferred the case to the special MP-MLA court for trial. It had earlier also instructed the CBI to expedite the process of obtaining the forensic report of Tytler's voice sample.
New Delhi, Aug 29 : Border Security Force (BSF) on Tuesday said that they have apprehend two smugglers including a Bangladeshi national and foiled their smuggling attempts at Indo-Bangladesh border.

BSF said that it has also seized 744 bottles of Phensedyl valued at over one lakh rupees in two separate incidents.

The official said that smugglers were trying to cross these goods from India to Bangladesh.

In the first incident, on August 28, the personnel at Border Outpost Dobarpara, saw a suspicious person coming towards the border. The troops laid a trap and caught the suspected person. The official said that they seized 149 bottles of Phensedyl from the possession of the accused identified as Myshier Dhabak, a Bangladeshi national.

During interrogation he revealed that on August 27, he had come to India from Bangladesh through an unknown route. After coming to India, he stayed at the house of a smuggler namely Sagar, a resident of village Gainpara, police station Gaighata. He received 149 bottles of Phensedyl from Sagar. He had to smuggle it into Bangladesh.

In the second incident the official seized 595 bottles of Phensedyl and apprehended a smuggler.

The apprehended smugglers and the seized goods have been handed over to the concerned agencies for further legal action.
Chennai, Aug 29 : The Madras High Court on Tuesday directed Tamil actor Silambarasan T.R. to furnish a security of Rs 1 crore within three weeks.

The court directive came on an application by Tamil movie producers, Vel International Ltd to restrain Silambarasan from acting in any other movie before the completion of its production "Corona Kumar".

It also said that he would be constrained to pass further orders on September 19 in case of failure to comply with this direction.

A bench of Justice Abdul Quddhose issued the direction after counsel of the film company informed the court that the production house had paid Rs 4.5 crore to the actor out of a total amount of Rs 9.5 crore for acting in the movie, and yet the actor was not willing to fulfill his commitment as agreed upon in 2021.

The judge, on pursuing the written agreement between the actor and production house on July 16, 2021, found that it had mentioned only a sum of Rs 1 crore being paid as an advance to the actor for "Corona Kumar" and that there was no mention regarding the payment of an advance amount of Rs 4.5 crore.

Counsel of the advocate, however, informed the judge that there were certain transactions and claimed that some amount was paid in cash.

The judge then said that he doubted whether the entire transactions were intended only for the movie and that a clear picture on the transaction would emerge only after the actor received notice of the present application, filed under Section 9 of the Arbitration and Counselling Act of 1996 and made an appearance through his lawyer.

He said that till then the producer could get protection only to the extent of Rs 1 crore.

--IANS

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Los Angeles, Aug 29 : Hollywood star Hugh Jackman has put out a public plea. The Wolverine actor recently reposted a video asking fans to help connect him with the young boy in the clip.

The video, which was originally posted on Our Blind Side's Instagram page, showcases a young boy named Ashton who is blind and starting middle school, reports 'People' magazine.

"Hi everyone here at @goodnews_movement," Jackman, 54, wrote over his repost of the video on his Instagram Story. "If you know how I can be in touch with Ashton please dm me. I'd like to wish him an amazing new school year."

He concluded, "Thanks for the help! HJ."

As per 'People', showcasing the student walking through school hallways with a white cane, the video also includes Ashton's mother encouraging parents to teach their children about blind students, and asks children to include others who have disabilities.

"Inclusion starts at home and parents should talk to their kids about these things before sending them to school every year. It will make a difference for my son if you have these kind of talks with your kids," the caption on the original post read, in part.

"Teach them to not only be kind but to look past differences this year and make a new friend like my son," Ashton's mother also wrote over the video.

The video has gone viral on social media, with many highlighting the importance of teaching children to be kind and include others who may not look or act like them.

Hugh Jackman's Instagram Story plea comes after his showcase of "cheat meals." The star has recently been using his Instagram to reveal his meals at different restaurants.
Visakhapatnam, Aug 29 : The indefinite fast by evangelist politician K.A. Paul against proposed privatisation of Visakhapatnam Steel Plant entered the second day on Tuesday.

The Praja Shanti Party chief made it clear that he will continue his fast till the Centre withdraws its decision for strategic sale of the Visakhapatnam Steel Plant (VSP).

He claimed that several ministers were calling him to request that he end his fast but he would continue till the Centre makes an announcement withdrawing the plans for VSP's sale.

Calling on all political parties to join hands to save VSP, he said all the MPs and MLAs from Andhra Pradesh should resign to put pressure on the Centre to drop it's plans for sale of VSP.

Terming the VSP an asset belonging to 15 crore people, he said all should make every effort to stop its privatisation. He alleged that the Centre was trying to sell VSP for Rs 4,000 crore though it is valued at Rs 8 lakh crore.

The evangelist said the Centre did not agree to his proposal to strengthen VSP of investing Rs 4,000 crore in a month and Rs 45,000 crore later.

--IANS

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Delhi school sexual assault: 'Was threatened of physical harm if I revealed anything', says one of the victims. Image Source: IANS News

New Delhi, Aug 29 : One of the two students of a Delhi government school, who were allegedly sexually assaulted multiple times by a group of boys in the toilet of the school, had reported the matter to his teachers who reportedly asked him to remain silent. When his mother insisted, the boy narrated the horrific details of the assault to her.

"In the restroom, I encountered two boys already present. One of them locked the door from inside, while the other, standing next to me, subjected me to forced sexual acts," read the FIR lodged by the Class 8 student's family.

The boy, in immense pain, pleaded with his assailants to stop. They then attempted further inappropriate actions, according to the FIR.

"They desisted upon hearing approaching footsteps. They warned me against revealing anything, threatening physical harm if I did," stated the boy.

As per the FIR, the young boy confided in both the school principal and his mother. Subsequently, one of the accused boys and his mother were summoned. "The accused boy penned an apology letter, but later, outside of school, he issued threats of severe consequences. This prompted my mother to dial 112," the complainant recounted.

"He informed me that he had already shared his traumatic experience with two teachers. I visited the school and inquired with them, but they categorically denied any awareness of the incident," recounted the mother.

She mentioned that the school administration provided no assistance for three days, compelling her to contact the police.

The Delhi Police has registered two separate cases after two boys were allegedly sexually assaulted by their classmates in northwest Delhi, an official said on Monday.

Sharing the details, a senior police official said that the alleged incident took place in April during a summer camp of the school

"The two boys had filed separate complaints with the police at Samaypur Badli police station alleging that they were sexually assaulted by five to six classmates. All the accused are minors and they were produced before a child welfare committee," said the official.

The Delhi Commission for Women had also issued a notice to the police and the city government's Directorate of Education in connection with the sexual assault.
Mumbai, Aug 29 : The ruling alliance of Shiv Sena-Bharatiya Janata Party-Nationalist Congress Party (AP) and seven other allies will hold a two-day convention here on August 31-September 1, party officials said here on Tuesday.

BJP Spokesperson Prasad Lad said that the meeting will be held at the NSCI complex in Worli to carry out a review of the upcoming Lok Sabha elections to the 48 seats in the state which will be contested by the alliance partners jointly.

Interestingly, the ruling allies' poll meet will coincide with the upcoming National Opposition I.N.D.I.A. bloc's meeting scheduled here on the same for two days.

The parties to attend the meet will be Shinde's Shiv Sena, ruling allies Bharatiya Janata Party and Ajit Pawar's breakaway Nationalist Congress Party, the NDA ally Republican Party of India (A) of Ramdas Athawale, Bahujan Vikas Aghadi led by Hitendra Thakur, Bachhu Kadu-led Prahar Janshakti Party, Prof. Jogendra Kawade-led People's Republican Party, Sadabhau Khot's Rayat Kranti Sangathana, Vinay Kore's Jansurajya Party, and Mahadev Jankar-led Rashtriya Samaj Party.

The state meet will include a dinner hosted by Chief Minister Eknath Shinde at his official residence on August 31 for all the elected leaders who will be present at the conclave.

"This joint meeting will assess and review the preparedness for the upcoming parliamentary elections All MPs, MLAs, MLCs of the alliance partners, district party chiefs and other office-bearers shall attend," said Lad.

On Friday, there will be a series of regional review meetings at the NSCI Dome which will be addressed by Shinde and Deputy CMs Devendra Fadnavis and Ajit Pawar, besides other senior leaders of the three parties and other allies and elected representatives from across the state.

The meetings will carry out a comprehensive analysis of the 48 parliamentary seats in Mumbai, Konkan, Marathwada, western and northern Maharashtra, the prospects of the three parties, the respective strengths and weaknesses of the allies vis-a-vis the Opposition parties, etc.

When asked why the meeting was being timed with the I.N.D.I.A., Shiv Sena's Minister Uday Samant said that the ruling alliance meeting was pre-planned, and "perhaps they (the National Opposition Conclave) may have planned it like this".

However, contrary to speculation in some quarters, alliance party sources rule out the possibility of any poll candidates being finalised at the two-day review meeting, though the issue of seat-sharing is likely to cause major headaches for the ruling partners.
London, Aug 29 : Fulham FC completed the signing of Belgian defender Timothy Castagne from Leicester City for an undisclosed fee, the Premier League club announced on Tuesday.

The 27-year-old, who has 33 international caps to his name, has agreed a contract until the summer of 2027, with an option to extend by a further 12 months. He will wear the number 21 shirt.

"I feel very good. Itas been a long transfer window, but finally, Iam here, and Iam happy to be here. Itas a big relief. I've talked to the manager and I just canat wait to start training and playing," Castagne told the club's official website.

The full-back began his senior professional career with Belgian side Genk in 2014, before moving to Serie A with Atalanta in 2017.

Three years later in 2020, Castagne signed for Leicester and would go on to make 91 appearances in the Premier League, scoring four goals and providing six assists.
Kolkata, Aug 29 : The interim Vice Chancellor of Jadavpur University (JU), Buddhadeb Sau, has convened a crucial meeting of all the stakeholders of the university on Friday to finalise the steps to be adopted to implement anti-ragging guidelines on the campus and students' hostels following the death of a fresher on August 10.

The first year student of Bengali honours died on August 10 after falling from the balcony of a studentsa hostel. It is suspected that he became a victim of ragging.

Meanwhile, the JU unit of Trinamool Congressa affiliated teachers' association has sent a letter to Sau demanding that Education Minister Bratya Basu should be invited for Friday's meeting.

The association has also demanded that for the sake of transparency, there should be live streaming of the proceedings of the meeting.

However, till the time of filing this report, there was no confirmation if the JU authorities will accept the two demands.

Sources said that immediately after taking charge as the interim VC, Sau has taken up a special initiative to clear all the bushes which have grown at several places within the university campus.

It is perceived that the bushes are being cleared following allegations of consumption of psychotropic substances, including alcohol and marijuana, taking the cover of the bushes.

The JU authorities have already taken the first step for installing 26 AI-enabled CCTV cameras on the campus by floating tenders for the same.

The authorities have also decided to appoint 30 retired army personnel in the overall security set-up for the campus, for which a requisition has been sent to the Directorate Resettlement Zone (East).
New Delhi, Aug 29 : The Delhi High Court has dismissed a plea challenging the election of Meenakshi Lekhi, the current Union Minister of State for External Affairs, from the New Delhi Parliamentary Constituency in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections.

The plea was moved by Ramesh, who contested as an independent candidate from the same constituency.

He alleged discrepancies in Lekhi's election expenditure and accused her of corrupt election practices.

Justice Sanjeev Narula rejected the plea, stating that it lacked essential "material facts" necessary to establish a cause of action.

"In view of the foregoing discussion, the petition being bereft of a cause of action, is dismissed under Order VII Rule 11 of the CPC. Pending applications are also disposed of," the judge said.

The court stressed on the significance of providing detailed and well-supported pleadings to ensure transparency and efficiency in the legal process. The Representation of People Act highlights the need for specificity when making allegations, it said.

The court observed that the petitioner did not present specific details about the alleged corrupt practices, individuals involved, amomg other things.

Though Ramesh argued that Lekhi exceeded the permissible election expenditure limit of Rs. 70 lakhs, the basis for his claim remained vague.

The lack of specific information regarding election-related expenses and undervaluation of expenditures weakened the credibility of the accusation.

"Petitioner has not set-out the concise details of persons involved, mode of undervaluing of expenditures and manner of alleged fabrication of the accounts register. The lack of specific details regarding expenses incurred on various election-related activities and the undervaluation of expenditures undermines the credibility of the accusation," the court said.

Justice Narula stated that the court's role is to critically assess whether a petition genuinely presents a valid cause of action deserving of its intervention.

As Ramesh's petition lacked necessary details and specifics, it was dismissed under Order VII Rule 11 of the Code of Civil Procedure. Pending applications were also disposed of in light of the dismissal.
Need to keep our own interests going, says Jaishankar on economic ties with Russia. Image Source: IANS News

New Delhi, Aug 29 : India on Tuesday dismissed a 'standard map' released by China on Monday (August 28), showing parts of Aksai Chin and Arunachal Pradesh within its territory.

External affairs minister S Jaishankar during an interaction with a television channel was quoting as saying said that China has a "habit" of releasing such maps and mere inclusion of territories belonging to other countries in its maps does not mean anything.

The minister was quoted by the television channel as saying that China has put out a map with territories that are not theirs.

Simply releasing maps with territories not belonging to it does not change anything, as the government is very clear about its territory, and such "absurd claims" don't make other people's territories theirs, Jaishankar said as quoted by the television channel.

Jaishankar also chose to de-link the disengagement talks along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) and the release of the map by China.

The release of the map comes just days before the G20 summit, which is scheduled to take place in New Delhi on September 9 and 10.

Last week during his informal conversation with China's President Xi Jinping at the BRICS summit in South Africa, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had conveyed India's "concerns over unresolved issues along LAC and other areas along the India-China border".
Patna: A Patna-Delhi IndiGo flight which was forced to make an emergency landing at the Patna airport. Image Source: IANS News

New Delhi, Aug 29 : For the second time on Tuesday within a span of a few hours, an IndiGo flight experienced a mid-air glitch.

This incident involved one of the aircraft's engines shutting down, yet the Kolkata to Bengaluru flight managed to land safely.

"IndiGo flight 6E 455 from Kolkata to Bengaluru returned to Kolkata after take off due to a technical issue. The pilot followed standard operating procedures and landed back in Kolkata. An alternate aircraft is being arranged to bring the passengers to Bengaluru. We regret the inconvenience caused to the passengers," an airline spokesperson said.

Earlier in the day, an IndiGo flight from Madurai landed safely at the Mumbai airport on Tuesday despite one of the aircraft's engines shutting down.

Given that twin-engine planes can safely operate on a single engine, the Airbus A321 safely landed in Mumbai.

"IndiGo flight 6E-2012 operating from Madurai to Mumbai had a technical issue prior to landing in Mumbai. The pilot prioritised the landing in Mumbai. The aircraft is held at Mumbai and will be back in operations after necessary maintenance. We regret the inconvenience caused to the passengers," said the airline spokesperson.

Tuesday's development comes after the aviation regulator, DGCA had said earlier that subsequent to the announcement made by Pratt & Whitney regarding material anomalies on the PW1100G engines worldwide affecting approximately 200 engines, the aerospace manufacture issued the Service Instructions (SI) enlisting the serial numbers of the engine series which are required to be removed for performing Angle Ultrasonic Scan Inspection during shop visit and accordingly are required to be removed before September 15.

--IANS

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New Delhi, Aug 29 : Delhi's PWD Minister Atishi on Tuesday inspected Lodhi Road and Pragati Maidan stretch to check the preparations of G-20 Summit.

Atishi said that Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal envisions a cleaner and more beautiful Delhi. "He has committed to the people of Delhi to enhance the aesthetic appeal of every road in the national capital. Over the past one year, the Delhi Government's Public Works Department has diligently undertaken streetscaping projects across Delhi, drawing inspiration from European roads."

"Today, I inspected Lodhi Road, a vital part of Central Delhi. PWD has completely transformed this stretch with contemporary design and architecture. The addition of fountains, modern street sculptures, lighting, state-of-the-art furniture, green spaces, and a walking path has made the road aesthetically appealing. As Delhi will welcome the G20 delegates soon, we aspire to showcase our finest work to them."

She said that Pragati Maidan, which is the main venue of the G20 summit and will witness the presence of the leaders of 20 nations, the Kejriwal government has also worked on beautifying the roads here.

She said that along with the black-topping of the roads, the Public Works Department (PWD) has also installed impressive street art here. Additionally, a large number of plants of various species have been planted here to ensure greenery.

Atishi said that both the MCD and Delhi Government are working tirelessly to present Delhi at its best during the G20 summit. The Delhi government has orchestrated a splendid transformation of major roads, including Ring Road, Lodhi Road, Aurobindo Marg, Shantivan Road, among others. Simultaneously, the MCD has deployed a large number of sanitation workers and mechanized sweeping to ensure the capital's cleanliness.
New Delhi, Aug 29 : Two accused including a Sri Lankan national were apprehend at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (Mumbai Airport) for allegedly smuggling gold worth Rs 4 crore, a CISF official said on Tuesday.

The CISF official said that the accused were held on Tuesday evening at 4:15 p.m. The official said that the accused were arrested based on behaviour detection.

"The CISF surveillance and intelligence staff of Terminal-2, CSMI Airport, Mumbai noticed suspicious activities of two passengers, who were roaming near Boarding Gate No. 46 of Level 3, domestic departure. They were kept under electronic as well as physical surveillance. During surveillance, it was observed that one of them picked a black bag from the floor near boarding gate No. 46 at Level 3 of the airport. On strong suspicion, the passengers were intercepted by CISF staff for questioning," CISF official added.

The official said that the passengers were later identified as Mohammad Hiras and Mohammad Rusaith (Sri Lankan) who were supposed to travel from Mumbai to Bangalore by Air India flight.

"On tactfully questioning, they accepted that the bag was thrown by an international transit passenger from Boarding Gate No. 46 located at Level 4, International Boarding Gates Area. There is visible gap between Level 4 and Level 3 and that international passenger used that gap to throw the bag. The apprehended passengers confirmed that the bag contains 23 pieces of oval shape yellow metal weighing approximately 8800 gms, which were wrapped with black tape for concealment," said the official.

Later, both the passengers along with 23 oval shape yellow metal weighing about 8800 gm worth approximately Rs 4 crore, were handed over to AIU/ Customs officials for further action in the matter.
New Delhi, Aug 29 : Minister Mansukh Mandaviya on Tuesday, while hailing the Centre's decision to cut LPG prices, said that it is the Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government's Raksha Bandhan gift for the people.

The Minister also expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for taking decision in the public interest.

"Modi government's big gift on Raksha Bandhan. Thanks to Modi ji for this public interest decision," Mandaviya, who is the Minister for Health and Family Welfare, wrote on X.

Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare S.P Singh Baghel also took to X and expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for slashing the prices of LPG cylinders.

"Modi ji's gift to our women power on the occasion of Raksha Bandhan," Baghel wrote thanking the Prime Minister.

The Union Cabinet meeting chaired by Prime Minister on Tuesday announced Rs 200 cut in prices of cooking gas cylinders.

Further, users under the PM Ujjwala Scheme will get this subsidy on top of the existing subsidy. The Cabinet also approved 7.5 million new gas connections under the scheme.
New Delhi: A view of the Supreme Court in New Delhi on Tuesday, Feb. 28, 2023. (Photo: Wasim Sarvar/IANS). Image Source: IANS News

New Delhi, Aug 29 : The Supreme Court has recently held that a Hindu female must be in possession of property for conferment of a full ownership under Section 14 of the Hindu Succession Act.

A bench comprising Justices C.T. Ravikumar and Sudhanshu Dhulia was considering a special leave petition filed against an order of the Kerala High Court upholding dismissal by the trial court of a partition suit claiming ancestral rights over the property.

The suit was dismissed on the ground that the land along with the house sought to be partitioned is an agricultural land on which the appellants cannot claim any right. The trial court had held that in the facts of the case Hindu Women's Right to Property Act, 1937 was not applicable to agricultural land.

The Section 14 of the Hindu Succession Act, 1956 provided that any property possessed by a female Hindu, whether acquired before or after the commencement of this Act, will be held by her as full owner thereof and not as a limited owner.

Prior to the Hindu Succession Act, 1956, amongst "Thiyyas" of Kozhikode, ancestral property devolved only on the male children and daughters had a right of maintenance till the time of their marriage.

The Supreme Court said that the essential ingredient for a property of a female Hindu to be her absolute property is possession over the property.

"A preexisting right is a sine qua non for conferment of a full ownership under Section 14 of the Hindu Succession Act. The Hindu female must not only be possessed of the property but she must have acquired the property," it said, referring to an earlier judgment of the Supreme Court

Admittedly the plaintiff, Hindu female, was never in possession of the property, noted the top court while dismissing the civil appeal.
New Delhi, Aug 29 : Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has lodged an FIR of loan fraud of Rs 167 crore against a Mumbai based firm Varron Auto Kast Ltd and its directors.

A senior CBI official said that a written complaint in this respect was received from State Bank of India (Mumbai) against Varron Auto Kast Ltd. (Promoted by Shrikant Pandurang Sawaikar, since deceased), Pramod Madhukar Papani (director) (since deceased), and Sanjiv Vishvambhar Pophale (director).

It was alleged in the complaint that Varron Auto Kast Ltd. was a new venture of Varron Group. It was sanctioned term loan of Rs 167 Crores by the SBI and Rs 155 Crores each by Bank of India and Indian Overseas Bank (Consortium Members) out of total project cost of Rs 721.54 Crores, for the purpose of setting up an auto component manufacturing complex at Nagpur.

"The company diverted funds to individuals for civil and construction work not backed by invoices thereby causing wrongful loss to the State Bank of India to the tune of Rs. 167 Crores to the SBI and corresponding wrongful gain to the company and its Directors," reads the FIR.

The official said that after receiving the complaint they filed an FIR under sections 120-B read with sections 420, 467, 468, 471 IPC and section 13(2) read with sections 13(1)(d) of Prevention of Corruption Act.

Further investigation in the case is underway.
Washington, Aug 29 : A new poll conducted among people in more than 23 countries showed that India is generally viewed favourably by the world.

The poll also found that while most Indians said their countryas global influence has grown stronger in recent years, the rest of the world disagreed, and either saw no change in Indiaas standing or saw it get weaker.

At home in India, the 24th country polled for this survey, Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a commanding double-digit lead over his key challenger for premiership, Rahul Gandhi of the Congress.

The multi-nation poll was conducted by the Pew Research Center to assess India's image in the world in the year of Indiaas presidency of the G-20, whose leaders will congregate in a few days in New Delhi for their annual summit.

Pew polled 28,250 people in 23 countries between March and May, and 2,611 in India, over phone and Internet and in face-to-face interviews.

The survey report released on Tuesday showed that a median of 46 per cent of the respondents held a favourable view of India and a median of 34 per cent held an unfavorable view.

Views about India were most positive in Israel (71 per cent), followed by the United Kingdom (66 per cent), Kenya (6 per cent), Nigeria (60 per cent), South Korea (58 per cent), (Japan (55 per cent), Australia (52 per cent), the United States (51 per cent) and Canada (47 per cent).

Holding a positive view of India did not, however, translate to believing Indiaas global clout is growing.

Only 29 per cent of the Israelis, 34 per cent of the respondents in the UK, 32 per cent in Japan and 23 per cent in the US said Indiaas clout has grown in recent years. In contrast, 68 per cent of Indians polled for the survey said their countryas global influence has grown in recent times.

Countries that did not view India positively were led surprisingly by South Africa (51 per cent saw India unfavorably), the Netherlands (48 per cent), Spain (49 per cent) and Austria (45 per cent).

In India, Prime Minister Modi turned in a chartbusting lead of 17 percentage points over Rahul Gandhi with 79 per cent to 62 per cent; he was also way ahead of other Congress leaders like Mallikarjun Kharge and Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury.

The poll was started just before Rahul Gandhi was removed from the Parliament for his conviction in a defamation case (he has since been reinstated) and wrapped up before the Karnataka election results that gave a new thrust to the Congress party and its leader.

This poll may not be an updated reflection of the mood in India, having been conducted three months and many critical developments ago.

In other findings of the survey, Indians said they believed both the US and Russia -- and they had a positive view of the country and its leader Vladimir Putin -- had grown in influence in recent years. Four in 10 Indians said they felt Chinaas influence has grown stronger in contrast to three in 10 who said it has become weaker.

Views about Pakistan were predictably hostile. About seven in 10 Indians have an unfavorable view of Pakistan, with 57 per cent of them being very unfavorable towards Pakistan.

Merely 19% Indians have a favorable view of their western neighbors.
New Delhi, August 39 : India on Tuesday lodged a strong protest with China on the release of a so called 'standard map' by it which showed Indian territory under Chinese jurisdiction.

"We have today lodged a strong protest through diplomatic channels with the Chinese side on the so called 2023 astandard mapa of China that lays claim to Indiaas territory," external affairs ministry spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said on Tuesday.

"We reject these claims as they have no basis. Such steps by the Chinese side only complicate the resolution of the boundary question," he added.

The protest lodged by New Delhi on the development came just hours after External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar while speaking to a television channel dismissed the astandard mapa released by China on August 28, showing parts of Aksai Chin and Arunachal Pradesh within its territory.

Jaishankar during an interaction with a television channel was quoting as saying that China has a ahabita of releasing such maps and mere inclusion of territories belonging to other countries in its maps does not mean anything.

Simply releasing maps with territories not belonging to it does not change anything, as the government is very clear about its territory, and such aabsurd claimsa donat make other peopleas territories theirs, Jaishankar was quoted as saying by the television channel.
New Delhi, Aug 29 : Japanese company SoftBank Vision Fund (SVF Global) is looking to sell off 1.17 per cent stake in food delivery giant Zomato, according to a media report on Tuesday.

The stake will be offloaded via a block deal -- 10 crore shares at a price of Rs 94 apiece, totalling Rs 940 crore, CNBC TV-18 reported.

Kotak Securities will be the broker to the deal, the report added.

Last week, JM Financial Institutional Securities in a report said that Zomato's stock is likely to be volatile in the near term on account of market speculation around possible exits by some pre-IPO shareholders (VC/PE/Chinese investors) of the company as well as erstwhile shareholders of Blinkit who had received it under a share swap deal.

On Tuesday, US-based investment major Tiger Global, via its VC fund Internet Fund III Pte Ltd, exited Zomato by selling its entire shareholding for Rs 1,123.85 crore.

Several pre-IPO and ex-Blinkit investors are sitting on substantial unrealised gains. An analysis of the cost of acquisition of shares owned by pre-IPO and ex-Blinkit shareholders of Zomato suggests they are currently sitting on substantial gains on their investments, a large chunk of which is, however, unrealised.
New York, Aug 29 : Reaching the age of 90, 95 or 100, known as exceptional longevity, was more likely for women who maintained their body weight after age 60, according to a study.

Older women who sustained a stable weight were 1.2 to 2 times more likely to achieve longevity compared to those who experienced a weight loss of 5 per cent or more, said researchers from the University of California, San Diego.

In the study, published online in the Journal of Gerontology: Medical Sciences, researchers investigated the associations of weight changes later in life with exceptional longevity among 54,437 postmenopausal women.

Throughout the follow up period, 30,647, or 56 per cent of the participants, survived to the age of 90 or beyond.

Women who lost at least 5 per cent weight were less likely to achieve longevity compared to those who achieved stable weight.

For example, women who unintentionally lost weight were 51 per cent less likely to survive to the age of 90.

However, gaining 5 per cent or more weight, compared to stable weight, was not associated with exceptional longevity.

"Our findings support stable weight as a goal for longevity in older women," said first author Aladdin H. Shadyab, Associate Professor at UC San Diego.

"If ageing women find themselves losing weight when they are not trying to lose weight, this could be a warning sign of ill health and a predictor of decreased longevity."

The findings suggest that general recommendations for weight loss in older women may not help them live longer. Nevertheless, the authors caution that women should heed medical advice if moderate weight loss is recommended to improve their health or quality of life.

The data expands on the growing research linking the relationship between weight change and mortality. Notably, this is the first large study to examine weight change later in life and its relation to exceptional longevity.
New Delhi, Aug 29 : The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has registered an FIR in connection with an alleged minority scholarship scam worth Rs 144.33 crore.

The amount of the scam, which took place from 2017-18 to 2021-22, amounted to Rs 144.33 crore and involved 830 institutes where fake beneficiaries were identified during the investigation.

The CBI had received a complaint regarding this from the Ministry of Minority Affairs, after Minority Affairs Minister Smriti Irani drew the agency's attention to this issue in July this year.

The Ministry of Minority Affairs has implemented three scholarship schemes -- pre-matric scholarships, post-matric scholarships, and merit-cum-means -- for students from six minority communities - Muslims, Christians, Sikhs, Jains, Buddhists and Parsis.

These scholarships are provided to the minority students studying in more than 1.8 lakh institutions. Over the last five years ending in 2021-22, an average of 65 lakh students received scholarships annually.

The Ministry schemes are part of a Centre Sector Scheme (CSS), with 100 per cent funds directly disbursed to the students through the direct benefit transfer (DBT) mode via the Public Financial Management System (PFMS) by the Central government.

"Considering the various reports of embezzlement of funds under the scholarship schemes, the Ministry engaged the National Council of Applied Economic Research (NCAER) to conduct a third party evaluation of the schemes. Additionally, the Ministry carried out evaluations through the National Scholarship Portal by flagging doubtful institutions/applicants.

"A total of 1,572 institutes were selected for evaluation based on red flags generated on NSP. Out of these, 830 institutions across 21 states were found to be either non-operational, fake, or partially fake," stated the Ministry letter.

The Ministry estimated the approximate loss to the exchequer by calculating financial implications from 2017-18 to 2021-22 for the identified fake institutes. The estimated loss stood at Rs 144.33 crore for these 830 institutes.

"The loss could only be calculated for the period during which the Ministry possessed clean digitised data on the National Scholarship Portal (NSP). Applicants from these institutions may have also received scholarships for years preceding 2017-18," the letter added.

The Ministry provided the CBI with several documents related to the case.

The first document was a self-contained note providing details of findings against 830 institutions, including the modus operandi adopted by unscrupulous elements, and an estimated loss of Rs 144.33 crore for the years 2017-18 to 2021-22.

The second document was a report from the monitoring and evaluation study of NCAER.

The third document contained a list of 830 institutes along with application details and information about officers who approved the applications at the institute and district levels.

The fourth document included a copy of the standard operating procedure (SOP) of the National Scholarship Portal for scholarship approvals.

"The evaluation of data from 1572 institutions resulted in an approximate loss of Rs 144 crore. The Ministry has provided scholarships to students from more than 1.80 lakh institutions, indicating that the actual loss to the government could be much higher.

"This level of fraudulence would not have been possible without collusion between institutions, applicants, institute nodal officers, district nodal officers, and bank officials, as scholarship amounts are directly credited to beneficiaries' bank accounts. A comprehensive investigation by the premier investigative agency is necessary to examine all involved institutions and individuals who have fraudulently claimed scholarships," the letter stated.
Patna, Aug 29 : Police in Bihar's Bhagalpur arrested a fake sub-inspector who was going around in police uniform for the last one year, an official said on Tuesday.

The accused, identified as Raushan Kumar, had deployed himself on the route of Shrawani fair from Sultanganj to Deoghar under the jurisdiction of Sultanganj police station in Bhagalpur district.

The incident came to light on Monday when the SHO, Sultanganj deployed a sub-inspector rank officer to the same place where Raushan Kumar was present.

"When he reached there, he found a youth wearing the uniform of a police sub-inspector already present there. When the SI inquired about his police station, the youth said that he is a 2019 batch sub-inspector who passed the police academy training from Rajgir and was deployed at Sultanganj police station. The sub-inspector immediately informed his seniors about the incident and they quickly sent a team there and arrested him," Bhagalpur's SSP Anand Kumar said.

During questioning, the fake SI revealed that he is a native of Sadikpur village under Sakhodar police station in Sheikhpura district and was preparing for the examination of sub-inspector for the last 4 to 5 years. He had failed in the examination but as the family pressure on him was very high, he purchased uniforms, badges, and other police insignia and informed his family members that he was selected as a sub-inspector of the Bihar Police.

On the basis of this, he also got marrried.

Sources have said that he has given Rs 20 lakh to a tout for recruitment as sub-inspector but was duped.

"We have recovered the full uniform of sub-inspector, badge, belt, stars, shoes and other equipment. He was produced in the district court on Tuesday which sent him to 14 days judicial custody," the SSP said.
Hyderabad, Aug 29 : In a heartwarming act, a traffic police constable rescued a kitten stranded on iron bars of an under construction pillar in Hyderabad.

The constable climbed on the iron grilles and rescued the feline stranded for three days.

The pillar is being constructed as part of a flyover near KV School on Uppal Ring Road.

After reaching the top, constable Pandu walked carefully on the horizontal bars to reach the kitten. He then held the little feline with his hand and put it in a bag he carried with him.

After getting down, the constable released the kitten in a corner.

Panduas gesture has won many hearts. As the video of his exemplary display of passion went viral on social media, netizens hailed him as a hero.

--IANS

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Kolkata, Aug 29 : The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Tuesday arrested Partha Chakraborty, the chief of the chit fund entity Chakra Group of Companies, on charges of money laundering to the tune of around Rs 60 crore.

Soon after the arrest, the ED produced Chakraborty before a special PMLA court, which remanded him to ED custody till September 8 after a brief hearing.

As per the charges framed by the ED, the accused collected deposits amounting to Rs 59.15 crore in the name of multi-level marketing schemes promising lucrative returns. However, even after the lapse of a reasonable time, the Ponzi entity did not return money to the investors, mainly belonging to the financially marginalised sections of the society.

On Tuesday, the ED counsel informed the special court that the accused adopted several measures to divert the deposits collected from these depositors using various channels.

The accused also resorted to multiple financial transactions dealing with sale and purchase of a number of properties with the clear intention of money laundering, the ED counsel informed the court.

However, the counsel of the accused claimed that his client has been arrested in a case which is 10 years and old hence his arrest by the central agency was irrational.

However, after hearing both sides, the judge remanded the accused to ED custody till September 8.
Patna, Aug 29 : Four persons, including the mother who has sold her own minor daughter to a middle aged man for Rs 2.5 lakh, have been arrested by Muzaffarpur police, a police official said.

The victim belongs to Ranchi and her grandfather had lodged an FIR in Ratu Road police station there one and half years ago after her mother had sold her to a man of Muzaffarpur at that time for Rs. 2.5 lakh.

The accused mother used that money to live with her boyfriend in Delhi.

The case was transferred to Muzaffarpuras Sadar police station on the basis of zero FIR registered in Ratu Road police station.

The mother, the minoras spouse and an aide were arrested by the Sadar police station officials on Monday.

Sadar SHO Kundan Kumar said that the minor's statement was recorded before duty magistrate under Section 164 of the CrPC.

"An FIR was already registered against the accused. We have conducted the medical examination of the victim and added the section of POCSO Act in the FIR. All four accused are arrested," he said.

The police said that the girl was married to a man, resident of Gobarsahi area in Muzaffarpur, and more than double her age one and half years ago.

The victimas father, who originates from Jharkhand, came to Muzaffarpur some two years ago to earn his livelihood. He was accompanied by his wife and children and they were residing in a rented accommodation in Gobarshahi locality in the district.

However, he died after a few months in Muzaffarpur and the mother sold her child to a middle-aged man. At that time, the victim was just 12 years old. As the victim's mother was struggling to earn for her livelihood, she developed a physical relationship with a person, who agreed to marry her but refused to accept her minor daughter.
New Delhi, Aug 29 : Defence Minister Rajnath Singh held talks with his Kenyan counterpart Aden Bare Duale here on Tuesday and both agreed on joint training of forces in the counter-insurgency domain while India will also help Kenya in ship design and construction, the Defence Ministry said.

As a token of friendship, Rajnath Singh gifted 15 pairs of parachutes (main and reserve) manufactured by Gliders India Ltd to the Kenyan Cabinet Secretary for Defence and promised to set up an advanced CT scan facility in Kenya.

The Defence Ministry said that capacity building and cooperation in defence industry and equipment was also discussed at length by the two sides.

An MoU was signed between Goa Shipyard Ltd and Kenya Shipyard Ltd in the field of capacity building and for collaboration in ship design and construction.

Duale appreciated the growing prowess of the Indian defence industry, including the private sector, and highlighted the areas in which the Indian industry can support the requirements of the Kenyan Forces, the Defence Ministry said.

According to the ministry, he also suggested atraining of trainersa of Kenyan Forces by the instructors of Indian Armed Forces in order to maintain continuity and extract greater benefit out of such programmes.

Both sides agreed for joint training in counter insurgency and UN peacekeeping domains.

Other regional security issues of mutual interest were also discussed during the meeting, the official added.

Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan and Defence Secretary Giridhar Aramane also attended the meeting along with senior officials of Ministry of Defence, Ministry of External Affairs and Defence PSUs.

The Kenyan Cabinet Secretary for Defence is on a 3-day visit to India. He will be visiting Indian shipyards and defence industries in Goa and Bengaluru during his stay.

The Defence Ministry said that this meeting was a testimony to the increasing depth in the India-Kenya defence partnership. Both the Ministers agreed that the defence relationship between the two countries has evolved from being training-centric to include more strategic aspects.

Rajnath Singh underscored the importance India attaches to the ties with African nations. In particular, the relationship between India and Kenya has been growing from strength to strength. The two Ministers also concurred on the need for deeper cooperation in maritime security of the Indian Ocean region, official added.

--IANS

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Agartala, Aug 29 : The Railway Protection Force (RPF) of the Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) has apprehended six Rohingyas from the Dharmanagar railway station in northern Tripura, officials said on Tuesday.

NFRas chief PRO Sabyasachi De said that a joint team of RPF and Government Railway Police (GRP), during routine checking, detected suspicious activity of a group of people at the Dharmanagar railway station on Monday night.

During verification, the security personnel could not find any valid documents from the suspected persons, and arrested five women and a male after checking.

De said that on interrogation, they revealed that they had entered Tripura through a clandestine route from Bangladesh, where were staying in refugee camps in Coxas Bazar.

The male detainee said that they were going to Delhi by train via Guwahati.

Since January this year, a total of 232 illegal immigrants (Rohingyas and Bangladeshis) have been apprehended by the RPF under NFR's jurisdiction.
New York, Aug 29 : Last year's finalist Ons Jabeur of Tunisia defied breathing difficulties to edge past Colombian youngster Camila Osorio 7-5, 7-6(4) to reach the women's singles second round at the US Open on Tuesday.

The 2022 runner-up, who turned 29 on Monday, defied breathing difficulties to edge Colombian youngster Camila Osorio just about put the icing on the cake for a belated birthday celebration with a gutsy performance inside Louis Armstrong Stadium.

Jabeur sprinkled in her trademark drop shots and looping lobs, changing the direction at will, to race 4-1 ahead.

The Tunisian will next play Czech Republic teenager Linda Noskova, who is a 6-2, 6-1 winner over Madison Brengle, on Thursday.

Ekaterina Alexandrova got the better of Leylah Fernandez, the 2021 US Open womenas singles runner-up from Canada, in a first-round match in the women's singles competition.

In a tight contest featuring some high drama, Alexandrova was able to seize the initiative to win the match 7-6(4), 5-7, 6-4.

In other first-round matches on Day 2, Katie Boulter of the United Kingdom defeated Diane Parry of France 6-4, 6-0 while Maria Tatjana of Germany went down to Petra Martic of Croatia 6-2, 6-1.
Bhopal, Aug 30 : The Centre's decision to reduce the price of domestic LPG cylinders by Rs 200 has sparked a political buzz in poll-bound Madhya Pradesh, where the Congress has promised to provide the cooking gas cylinder at Rs 500.

The new prices of the LPG cylinders, which would come into effect from Wednesday, will be around Rs 903 in the state.

As the announcement came on the eve of the Rakshabandhan, the ruling BJP hailed the decision terming it as a "gift for sisters", while the Opposition Congress is calling it a decision to influence voters in view of the Assembly elections in five states  Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Rajasthan, Telangana and Mizoram.

In Madhya Pradesh, the Congress in its five-point 'Vachan Patra' or poll promises document has committed to provide the cooking gas cylinders at Rs 500.

The announcement was made by Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra while launching the party's poll campaign from Jabalpur on July 12.

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge while addressing a poll rally in Sagar on August 22 has also asserted that the 'five promises' made by the party were implemented in Himachal Pradesh and Karnataka immediately after coming to power.

The state BJP led by Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, which has been terming the Congress' 'vachan patra' a 'poll gimmick', has now made a similar promise and announced to provide LPG cylinders at Rs 450.

Addressing the 'Laadli Behna Sammelan', an event organised to celebrate Rakshabandhan with women in Bhopal on Sunday, Chief Minister Chouhan announced that the LPG gas cylinder would be provided at Rs 450.

On Tuesday while responding to the Centre's move to reduce LPG cylinder price by Rs 200, Chouhan reiterated the lines of Union Home Minister Amit Shah and said: "Prime Minister (Narendra) Modi has given a big gift to all the sisters of the country on the auspicious occasion of Rakshabandhan. The decision to cut domestic LPG cylinder price by Rs 200 for all consumers shows the sensitivity and compassion of the leadership."

Madhya Pradesh Congress President Kamal Nath hit out at Chouhan saying that the Chief Minister two days back has announced to provide an LPG cylinder at Rs 450 in Madhya Pradesh and now, he is thanking the Prime Minister for a subsidy of Rs 200.

"If this subsidy turns out to be true, then an LPG cylinder will still cost more than Rs 900. In this way, two days ago, you (Chouhan) had shown the dream of Rs 450 per cylinder to sisters and within 48 hours, you are welcoming a gas cylinder worth Rs 903, which is twice the price you promised... You are riding on the bullet train of lies," Kamal Nath slammed Chouhan in a social media post on Tuesday.
United Nations, Aug 30 : UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has said that a nuclear test ban is a fundamental step toward a world free of nuclear weapons.

"A legally binding prohibition on nuclear tests is a fundamental step in our quest for a world free of nuclear weapons. The Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty (CTBT), though not yet in force, remains a powerful testament to humanity's will to lift the shadow of nuclear annihilation from our world, once and for all," he said in a message on the International Day Against Nuclear Tests, which falls on August 29.

"In the name of all victims of nuclear testing, I call on all countries that have not yet ratified the treaty to do so immediately, without conditions. Let's end nuclear testing forever," he was quoted as saying by Xinhua news agency.

Since 1945, more than 2,000 nuclear tests have inflicted terrifying suffering on people, poisoned the air, and ravaged landscapes around the world. On the International Day Against Nuclear Tests, the world speaks with one voice to end this destructive legacy, he said.

"This year, we face an alarming rise in global mistrust and division. At a time in which nearly 13,000 nuclear weapons are stockpiled around the world, and countries are working to improve their accuracy, reach and destructive power, this is a recipe for annihilation," warned Guterres.

The CTBT was adopted by the UN General Assembly in September 1996. But it has not entered into force.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, August 29. Western countries want to use the nuclear issue for political purposes to put pressure on an independent country like Iran, President of Iran Ebrahim Raisi said, Trend reports.

"The International Atomic Energy Agency has stated 15 times that Irans nuclear program is not abnormal, but Western countries want to use the nuclear issue for political purposes to put pressure on an independent country like Iran. Anyway, we didnt leave the negotiating table to give them a reason, but they left the negotiating table, and then came back," he said.

He noted that it was Europe and the US that have not fulfilled their obligations in regard with the nuclear program.

Raisi added that Iran has not failed the negotiations and the action plan, and is also actively working on another front, which is the neutralization of sanctions.

On January 16, 2016, Iran's nuclear program triggered the creation of the JCPOA between Iran and the P5+1 group (US, Russia, China, UK, France, and Germany). In May 2018, the US announced its withdrawal from the deal and imposed sanctions on Iran in November of the same year. To preserve the agreements reached as part of the JCPOA, the European signatories of the deal started in January 2019 and a financial mechanism for maintaining trade with Iran called INSTEX was formed.

On May 8, 2019, Iran announced ceasing to fulfill its commitments regarding the sale of over 300 kilograms of uranium, as stated in the deal, basing its decision on the other signatories that have not fulfilled their obligations.

On July 7, Iran announced that it would not be fulfilling its commitments regarding the enrichment of uranium at 3.67 percent and the reconstruction of the Arak Heavy Water Reactor Facility as stated in the deal.

On September 5 of the same year, Iran announced its commitment to enrich uranium using next-generation centrifuges and not mix it with the enriched uranium residues as part of the third step of reducing commitments in the JCPOA.

On November 5, 2019, Iran announced that it had taken the fourth step in connection with reducing its commitments to the nuclear agreement. So, uranium gas is being pumped to the centrifuges at the Fordow Fuel Enrichment Plant.

On January 5, 2020, Iran took the last fifth step in reducing the number of its commitments within the JCPOA.

On May 8, 2018, the US announced its withdrawal from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) between Iran and the 5+1 group (Russia, China, the UK, France, the US, and Germany) and imposed new sanctions against Iran as of November 2018.

Over the past period, the sanctions affected Iranian oil exports and more than 700 banks, companies, and individuals. The sanctions have resulted in the freezing of Iranian assets abroad.
The Principal Foundation, a philanthropic grantmaking organization with a focus on financial literacy, is collaborating with the Center for Fiction and French independent publisher Short Edition on a short story contest called Money Chronicles: A Story Initiative.

Finalists fiction and creative nonfiction will be distributed for free at participating bookstores and libraries via Short Editions Short Story Dispensers. The dispensers, which operate with the touch of a button, randomly select a short story and print it on a paper scroll that resembles an oversize receipt. This no-strings-attached format might entice readers to consider the almighty dollar through the universal art form of storytelling, said Principal Foundation director Jo Christine Miles.

Following the August 31 deadline, Short Edition, the Principal Foundation, and the Center for Fiction will vet the first 400 submissions and work with a jury of nine authors and literary specialists to determine up to 30 finalists by October 17. Finalists receive $250 each, and their stories will be available in Short Story Dispensers at the New York Public Library, the Charlotte Mecklenberg Library (Charlotte, N.C.), Elliott Bay Book Co. (Seattle), Prairie Lights Books and Cafe (Iowa City), and creative space Sip & Sonder (Inglewood, Calif.).

Money Talks

Principal Foundations Miles feels that narratives, rather than loan applications or credit card fine print, could stimulate conversations on often-taboo subjects like salaries and wealth. We spend our endowment to support programs that help people pursue financial security in the U.S. and internationally, Miles said. But no matter what type of assistance, education, or pamphlets you provide, everybody has their internal money habits and money story, even if they dont talk openly about their financial decisions. (Principal Foundation is a 501c3 nonprofit and charitable entity associated with Principal Financial Group Inc.)

Miles developed the Money Chronicles competition after seeing a social media post about the Center for Fictions Short Story Dispenser, installed in the literary nonprofits Brooklyn bookstore. At first she considered getting a dispenser for Principals campus in Des Moines, Iowa, but then it dawned on me: this could be a wonderful way to get after that financial silence, that stigma around talking about money, at the core of our grantmaking. For an example of just such a revelatory story, she cites Sidik Fofanas The Rent Manual, in Stories from the Tenants Downstairs (Scribner, 2022), about a woman whose shopping habits undermine her ability to afford housing. Fofana is among the authors who will serve on the Money Chronicles jury.

Miles reached out to Short Edition and the Center for Fiction to organize a writing contest and find literary partners to host install the Short Story Dispensers. While stories are dispensed free to readers, host sites purchase the dispenser units and spools of paper, and pay to subscribe to the content.

As Short Edition cofounder and editor Sylvia Tempesta explained, Our main business model is Short Story Dispenser salesa capital expenditure for a library, university, airport, hospital, or otherand an annual subscription to unlimited content. All the works dispensed on the 500-plus units worldwide come from either contest winners or our quarterly review, Short Circuit.

Tempesta calls the U.S. our second-largest market and estimates that 8 million stories, poems, and comics have been shared on the dispensers. (Film director Francis Ford Coppola was an early adopter of the dispensers, and Tempesta calls him our first, and famous, export client.)

Short or flash fiction allows for all genres, all emotions, and has the advantage of being malleable, Tempesta said. It can be read on a smartphone [for readers accessing Short Edition online] or on our eco-friendly rolls of paper. With the dispensers, we combine the old love for precious paper with new technology.

Dispensing Literature

At the Center for Fiction, which has been a client and partner of Short Edition for three years, the dispenser is funded by a grant and installed in a space that sees heavy foot traffic. We've distributed 11,980 stories from our dispenser since we launched it in October 2021, said senior manager of marketing and community engagement Celeste Kaufman. Were using it to distribute the winners of our writing contest for teenagers. We get tons of submissions for any one of our teen storytelling contests.

Elliott Bay Book Co. and Prairie Lights already have installed their Short Story Dispensers, in preparation for the Money Chronicles finalists. We went live at the beginning of August, and its in constant use, said Janis Segress, general manager at Elliott Bay. We go through one [paper spool] in less than a week. They gave us 24 rolls to start, and Ive already asked them to put me on for triple that delivery. Segress believes use of the dispenser will increase, the way our sales do, going into the holidays. (The Seattle Public Library also has owned two dispensers for the past three years, located at the Capitol Hill and Southwest branches.)

At Prairie Lights, co-owner Jan Weissmiller says the Short Story Dispenserwith its global reachamplifies Iowa Citys status as a UNESCO City of Literature and appeals to students at the University of Iowa and its graduate program, the Iowa Writers Workshop. It took about 15 minutes to set it up [near the cafe], and everybody loves it, Weissmiller said, noting that visitors can stop by on their way to store events: Our space upstairs can seat 150 for readings, and while theyre waiting, they can get a story.

Segress appreciates the interactive experiences fostered by the Short Story Dispensers. For authors, its a way to put work into readers hands, because not everybody can get a script or short across an editors desk. For bookstore visitors, its like going to a carnival or like getting a fortune youre not expectingits just fun, she said. I see them walking around the store, reading their stories.

Miles, of the Principal Foundation, awaits the results of Money Chronicles debut. We can tweak the prompt each year, she said, and the dispensers can stay in place if the host locations are willing. Wed like this to be an annual program.
The unionized staff of the Barnes & Noble location in Hadley, Massachusetts, staged a walkout on August 25 to draw attention to concerns over inadequate staffing. The B&N employees, represented by UFCW Local 1459, have filed an Unfair Labor Practice complaint to address the staffing issues.

According to local news station WWLP, the walkout, which lasted from 2pm to 5pm, was attended not just by B&N staff but also members of the Western Mass Area Labor Federation, which includes unions such as the Massachusetts Society of Professors, the Massachusetts Teachers Association, and United Auto Workers Local 2322, as well as members of Trader Joe's United and the River Valley Democratic Socialists of America.

In an interview with Mass Live, UFCW Local 1459 organizing director Drew Weisse said that approximately one dozen B&N employees participated in the walk out, adding that the store had 18 unionized staff at one time but is now down to 11 or 12. "This is an ongoing issue for staff," Weisse told Mass Live. "The company sends management personnel from other stores rather than hiring replacement staff when someone quits."

The 15-person staff of the Hadley B&N voted unanimously to unionize on May 25, with the staffs of the B&N flagship store in Manhattan's Union Square and primary Brooklyn location having unionized as well.
On Monday morning, Federal Judge Alan D. Albright heard the second round of oral arguments in Austin, Tex., on a motion to block HB 900, Texass controversial new book rating law. The judge heard a first round of arguments on August 18. At both hearings, Albright expressed the urgency to make a ruling on the motion prior to the law taking effect on September 1.

To recap: plaintiffs in the case include two Texas bookstoresAustins BookPeople and Houstons Blue Willow Bookshoptogether with the American Booksellers Association, the Association of American Publishers, the Authors Guild, and the Comic Book Legal Defense Fund who sued over the passage of the bill, which was signed by Texas governor Greg Abbott on June 12. Among its provisions, the law requires book vendors to review books and to rate them for sexual content under a vaguely articulated standard. Books rated sexually explicit (if the book includes material deemed patently offensive by unspecified community standards) would be banned from Texas schools. Books rated sexually relevant (if the books portrays any kind of sexual conduct) would be available only with written parental consent.

As articulated in their July 25 complaint, the plaintiffs argued that the law comprises an unconstitutional restraint on the freedom to read and that it imposes an untenable burden on the book vendors tasked with rating millions of books. Earlier this month, Texas attorneys filed a motion to dismiss the attempt to block the law, arguing that the plaintiffs lack standing to challenge it.

At Monday's, the state's attorneys argued that there was not yet any irreparable harm from the law and that there would be no enforcement of the the law until after April 1 of next year, when the initial lists of vendor book ratings are due to be filed with the Texas Education Agency. The plaintiffs, in turn, argued that any work to comply with the law would have to begin immediately and was itself a form of harm, as it was an untenable burden on the plaintiffs. Furthermore, the plaintiffs' attorneys pointed out that there was no guarantee that the state would not choose to enforce the law immediately on September 1, though the consequences of that enforcement were themselves unclear. They then suggested that, at the very least, the court should rule to enjoin the law until April 1, 2024.

At the first hearing, the judge appeared inclined to side with the plaintiffs, but Mondays hearing set a different tone. The judge challenged the plaintiffs' position more often, noting that the schools in Texas were not obliged to purchase books from bookstores, publishing houses, or any other book vendors, claiming that book vendors are not any different than any other supplier who provides products or services to the state, which is allowed to impose guidelines for doing business, he said. In filings before the hearing, Texas attorneys argued that the state has "wide authority" regarding public education, including the ability to use "statutory compliance as a screening tool."

The plaintiffs' attorneys countered that the damage from the law was already being done, pointing to Katy Independent School District, a school district in suburban Houston, which has announced that it would not buy any new books until the books were rated next year. Valerie Koehler, owner of Blue Willow Bookshop, had previously noted that Katy ISD has bought more than $200,000 from Blue Willow in the past 5-7 years, making it a significant customer. That sales channel will now be lost for the time being.

In another major sticking point, the plaintiffs argued that the law should be blocked because it was both vague and made untenable demands on the booksellers to rate books. Their attorney used a passage from the novel Lonesome Dove by Larry McMurtrywhich Albright said was his favorite bookto demonstrate how challenging it can be to rate a book. In this instance, a love scene between two characters refers to sex, but with ambiguity and in terms that are not explicitly obscene.

Albright posited that the lawwith which, the plaintiffs argue, it is impossible to comply due to the immense burden of workcould be met with a technicality: give a book no rating and you are done, he said, suggesting that the plaintiffs could submit a list of books with a rating of no rating, in turn compelling the TEA to then correct the ratingin essence, forcing the TEA to rate the book on its own.

Unfortunately, the plaintiffs' attorney pointed out, this would trigger the vendor whose ratings were corrected by TEA to be banned from selling books to school boardsanother untenable solution. If the state wants to rate books, the plaintiffs attorney said, they should do it themselves.

A ruling is expected later this week, but that has its own set of complications. The judge has broad discretion in issuing injunctive relief, meaning he could let the law stand but still strike down certain provisions.

This story has been updated.
Choose a watch and commission your own unique lunar meteorite dial: Louis Moinet is offering eight fortunate individuals the chance to make a mesmerising lunar horological journey

Creating a watch is more difficult than one might initially assume, for two seemingly contradictory reasons. The first challenge is to design a timepiece that is immediately compelling, commanding attention at first glance, even from someone unfamiliar with the brand.

Second, the watch must seamlessly fit into the ongoing narrative of the workshop, maintaining its coherence while presenting itself as the next logical chapter in a story thats been unfolding for nearly two decades. Its a delicate balancing act  akin to writing a book that could be picked up and started from any page.

The piece that Louis Moinet is unveiling at the Geneva Watch Days epitomises this ambitious endeavour. The Jules Verne Tourbillon To The Moon aims to elicit a simple reaction: wow. To achieve this, Jean-Marie Schaller, founder and creative director of Ateliers Louis Moinet, has pulled out all the stops.

The power of three

Aesthetically, the creation showcases three intriguing features. First, a dial crafted from lunar meteorite, with each client given the opportunity to select its design from eight unique options offered by Louis Moinet.

Next is a broad peripheral and annular guilloche, a modern interpretation that breathes new life into this traditional technique. The application of a green hue further enhances the contemporary styling.

Finally, theres a generously proportioned tourbillon at 6 oclock. Its a flying tourbillon, devoid of an upper bridge, giving it a delightful transparency. The off-centre cage, an unconventional geometric design, provides an elegant canvas for the escapement wheel to express itself.

Jules Verne Tourbillon To The Moon  Louis Moinet

Embracing heritage

These distinctive features are immediately apparent, without requiring any understanding of Louis Moinets history to appreciate the piece. However, brand connoisseurs will value how well it fits into the brand story. Mineral dials are a hallmark of Louis Moinets universe, particularly in the form of extraterrestrial minerals and meteorites. They are embedded in the brands DNA, given that the companys namesake, Louis Moinet, was acclaimed for his astronomical instruments. His compteur de tierces, the first chronograph in history, was one of many.

Assertive modernity

Colour also plays a significant role in Louis Moinets creations. The Atelier has consistently explored a broad chromatic spectrum, particularly in its Memoris collection.

The modernity of the timepieces decorative elements is also evident, something Jean-Marie Schaller has always emphasised. While respectful of the great watchmakers centuries-old legacy, Schaller has consistently championed a modern aesthetic for 21st-century collectors. The indices are vibrant and dynamic, their arrangement around the dial reminiscent of a celestial compass rose.

The tourbillon, designed by trusted partner Concepto (previously seen in the Impulsion), is decidedly contemporary, as is its impressive 96-hour power reserve, equating to four full days. Such a feature is rare, with only a few examples to be found at IWC, Hublot, Franck Muller and Cyrus.

The Jules Verne Tourbillon To the Moon will be limited to eight pieces, each representing one of the eight variations of the lunar meteorite gracing its dial. Two additional pieces featuring lapis lazuli and opal will soon follow.
Established in 1927, KBS is one of the leading television and radio broadcasters in South Korea, operating seven radio networks, ten television channels, and multiple internet-exclusive services. To ensure its new studio was of the highest calibre, KBS enlisted the services of XR and virtual production environment construction specialist Ark Ventures to create a facility featuring ROE Black Pearl LED panels and a 4K Tessera SX40 LED processor from Brompton Technologies. "Given the increasing popularity of virtual production and XR technology, particularly in live broadcast scenarios, KBS recognised the importance of creating a permanent, state-of-the-art studio at their premises to produce broadcasting content with this latest technology, establishing themselves as trend-setters in South Korea," said Ark Ventures general manager David Oh.The final LED installation boasts a 10m by 4.5m ROE BP2V2 LED wall, along with a Tessera SX40 and two Tessera XD 10G data distribution units that work together to produce realistic visuals and support even for the largest and most ambitious KBS projects. Having a ROE Visual LED makes KBS the first broadcasting company in South Korea to implement the blend of ROE Visual and Brompton Technology, setting them apart from other local broadcasting stations.Tessera features such as Frame Remapping allow multiple cameras to view different content on the same LED screen simultaneously, and the ShutterSync feature, which tunes the LED refresh rate to the cameras shutter speed to prevent artefacts from appearing, provide the KBS team with a solution that is said to transform typically complicated multi-camera virtual production setups into a seamless and effective workflow.When selecting the products for the LED wall at KBS studio, we sought an optimal combination of performance and reputation," Oh added. "ROE Visual's BP2V2 was our best choice, offering a high refresh rate, low scan rate, and exceptional stability. Meanwhile, Brompton's LED processing is widely considered to be the industry gold standard, so it made sense to pair the best with the best.With the advancement of virtual production as a tool used for live broadcast applications, we are delighted to see KBS fully leveraging the advances in technology by partnering with XR and VP specialist company Ark Ventures to build a state-of-the-art studio that allows their team to create any environment they can dream up, remarked Luke Hurford, Bromptons APAC business development manager. Its great to see that our products, like the Tessera SX40, are at the forefront of this cutting-edge solution
The new four-part event miniseries is adapted from the popular and critically acclaimed novel by Jane Sanderson. It begins in Sheffield, England in 1989 with Daniel and Alisons all-encompassing teenage romance, forever etched in their memories through the music of their generation and the spans to the modern day reality of their adult relationships, now living on opposite sides of the world.A new chapter begins for Daniel and Alison when they reconnect through a song from their shared past and explore their burning curiosity to understand if this is the love, and life, they were meant to have.Mix Tape is written by Jo Spain (Taken Down; Sanditon), and will be directed by Australian Director Lucy Gaffy (Totally, Completely Fine; Irreverent). The series will be produced by Angie Fielder and Polly Staniford for Aquarius Films and Aoife OSullivan and Tristan Orpen Lynch for Subotica. Executive Producers are Alison Hurbert-Burns, Lana Greenhalgh, Miranda Culley and Clare Mirabello. Major production investment was made by the Foxtel Group in association with Screen Australia and Screen Ireland. International sales by Eccho Rights.Were searching for stories that take our audience into a world they can lose themselves in but also be challenged by, and Mix Tape is a nostalgic, music filled love story that will jump off the screen and make you say, what if? said BINGE executive director commissioning, content Alison Hurbert-Burns commenting on the new series. A co-production allows us to tell this Australian and international story at a scale that will capture the audience's imagination and reinforces our commitment to creating premium, must-watch original stories. Aquarius Films  Angie Fielder and Polly Staniford, and Suboticas Aoife OSullivan and Tristan Orpen Lynch, said: Mix Tape will take us back in time to that intoxicating feeling of first love. Its a classic boy-meets-girl love story with a banging soundtrack that will tug at the heartstrings and have audiences reminiscing and asking themselves: What if you had a second chance at first love?Andrew Byrne, head of television at Fis Eireann/Screen Ireland, said: Screen Ireland is delighted to support Mix Tape, an Irish/Australian co-production written by acclaimed Irish writer Jo Spain. We're proud to continue supporting Irish talent and the production of high-end TV drama; working closely with international commissioners and film agencies to tell original stories like this for audiences at home and around the world.
The Biden administration is fraying relations with some allies and generating pushback from Congress by spending millions of taxpayer dollars to promote the woke ideology abroad that has stirred controversy at home since President Biden took office.

Sen. J.D. Vance, Republican of Ohio: He's among lawmakers holding up appointments of ambassadors over concerns about exporting woke ideology. In a "national security memorandum" shortly after his swearing-in, Biden ordered all federal agencies with dealings abroad not only to protect LGBT rights in the face of discrimination and violence but to actively advance them. His State Department has said one of its goals is to embed intersectional equity principles into diversifying public diplomacy and communications strategies in relations with other nations.

U.S. ambassadors around the world have translated those words into action, championing LGTB rights in countries that oppose them; funding performances that feature drag queens; and holding diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) seminars.

The State Department would not provide a list of initiatives and programs connected to these goals or how much money it is spending. Recent reports estimate nearly $5 million has been spent abroad on LGBT programs alone, and U.S. senators including Republican J.D. Vance of Ohio are holding up appointments of new ambassadors over concerns about exporting woke ideology.

Vance criticized what he called the injecting of personal politics into the U.S. foreign service, saying: You can call it extreme left, woke. To me its leaning toward cultural progressivism in a way that alienates half of our country and, frankly, it probably alienates about 80 percent of the countries these guys are going to represent us in front of.

American LGBT and black advocacy groups concerned with foreign policy and diplomacy declined to respond to RealClearInvestigations inquiries about the State Department programs. The groups are Gays and Lesbians in Foreign Affairs Agencies (GLIFAA) and the Thursday Luncheon Group, which was founded to increase the participation of African Americans in the formulation, articulation, and implementation of United States foreign policy. U.S. Ambassador to Poland Mark Brzezinski in the yearly Pride parade in Warsaw in June.

Among the State Department initiatives are a $10,000 grant to a Portuguese LGBT activist group to finance a film festival featuring drag performances, incest, and pederasty. It also provided $20,000 to support a series of drag shows in Ecuador.

Gina Abercrombie-Winstanley: Defending the display of a U.S. Pride flag seen as hostile to the Vatican, she said, We are a sovereign nation and we make our own decisions. A $300,000 State Department grant to Botswana aimed to promote greater social acceptance of LGBTQI+ persons, including among influential religious groups and traditional groups who preach or teach that homosexuality is immoral: Roman Catholics, most evangelical Christians, Muslims, and Orthodox Jews. Earlier this year, Republican scrutiny pressured the State Department to cancel drag shows it had been hosting on U.S. military bases.

Conservative governments, including those of predominantly Muslim nations, are similarly negative. Kuwait, for example, sharply criticized the acting charge d'affaires of the U.S. embassy for promoting Pride month in June via official channels on Twitter. In an official statement, Kuwaits Ministry of Foreign Affairs stressed to the U.S. the need for the embassy to respect the laws and regulations in force in the State of Kuwait, where public morality laws ban same-sex sexual activity.

In Hungary, Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto clashed with U.S. Ambassador David Pressman, who is openly gay and publicly criticized the Hungarian government over LGBT issues. [I]f he wishes to use his stay in Hungary to criticize the actions of a government elected by a clear majority of the Hungarian people and legitimized by the Hungarian people, the foreign minister said, he will have a very difficult job in working effectively to improve cooperation between the two countries.

Elsewhere, the U.S. ambassador to Poland, Mark Brzezinski, and some 30 staffers participated in Warsaws Pride parade, despite Polands constitutional ban on both same-sex marriage and civil unions. In South Korea, where same-sex marriage is illegal, the U.S. Ambassador, Philip S. Goldberg, promoted Pride month and spoke at a Queer Culture event in Seoul.

Pushing conservative governments: LGBT ideology is only one part of the U.S. drive for DEI abroad. The U.S. embassy to the Holy See posted its Pride flag on social media, disregarding the Catholic Churchs longstanding position against homosexuality. Criticized for, in the words of Republican Rep. Warren Davidson of Ohio, flying flags that are hostile to the doctrine of the Catholic Church, Ambassador Gina Abercrombie-Winstanley, the State Departments top DEI officer, defended the decision, saying the embassy did not need to coordinate with or seek the Vaticans permission: We are a sovereign nation and we make our own decisions.

According to a tally by RealClearInvestigations, 118 U.S. embassies tweeted or retweeted posts celebrating Pride Month in June.



But the promotion of LGBT ideology is only one part of the State Departments broader push for DEI abroad. When State Department DEI officers managed a Pride event at the U.S. embassy in Trinidad and Tobago, Ambassador Candace Bond said one of the conferences goals was to establish an inclusive DEI framework within their [Trinidads] organizations. To that end, the State Department funded a three-day DEI training program.

In Kuwait, the American Chamber of Commerce and the U.S. embassy hosted a Diversity & Inclusion Diwaniya, a Middle Eastern term for a business gathering. The U.S. embassy to the Netherlands signed a charter formalizing a DEI council. Ambassador Razdan Duggal said, The U.S. State Department officially supports the creation of DEIA Councils at its diplomatic posts abroad.

The State Departments DEI emphasis extends far beyond just events hosted and charters signed. Last year, the department announced it was completely reorganizing its hiring process for foreign service officers, deemphasizing a key test on written and language skills as well as world history and U.S. history. Eric Rubin, president of the American Foreign Service Association, blasted the decision, saying it would politicize the hiring process and risks being seen as excessively subjective and subject to partisan influence.
During a visit to the Iowa State Fair recently, Democrat presidential hopeful Robert F. Kennedy Jr. told NBC reporter Ali Vitali that he would support a national three-month limit on abortion. The released transcript shows that Kennedy was fully aware of the question being asked and repeated his stance multiple times, even after Vitali expressed her surprise. It was a rare sight of a Democrat candidate going against the extremism of his partys up-to-birth abortion push.

Unsurprisingly, Democrats were quick to express outrage.

Only a few hours later, Kennedys campaign tried to backtrack, issuing an unsigned retraction stating he misunderstood the question and his position on abortion is that it is always the womans right to choose. He does not support legislation banning abortion.

As the transcript with Vitali shows and from his previous public statements, Kennedy did not misunderstand the question. This is also not the first time that Kennedy has voiced a similar stance. During a town hall in June, he similarly supported limits on abortion after three months.

What he misunderstood is that Democrats have no tolerance for anyone who dares to go against their extreme abortion agenda of on-demand abortions up to birth.

New York Magazine was furious that he used the word child. Democrat strategist and commentator Ameshia Cross stated, RFK Jr. has never tried to appeal to Democrats or the partys primary voters. His stance on abortion access runs an affront to not only the Democratic Party but the majority of Americans regardless of partisan stripe.

Despite what Democrats like Cross want to believe, Kennedys initial position fits into many homes across America today, in a way that the party platform does not. A Cygnal poll from this month found that 56% of respondents overall and a plurality of Democrats support a national limit on abortion after 15 weeks, a point when science proves babies in the womb can feel pain.

Sadly, RFK Jrs campaign ran scared from the Democratic party squeeze and spun into damage control. It was embarrassingly obvious his consultants and the Democratic establishment told RFK Jr. to get in line or get out.

But their intolerance of Democrats who support protections for babies in the womb isnt a new thing. Back in 2020, when MSNBCs Stephanie Ruhle asked Bernie Sanders, Is there such a thing as a pro-life Democrat?, Sanders said flat out that abortion is an absolutely essential part of Democrat identity.

Todays Democratic Party tolerates no debate on abortion. Nearly every Democrat leader will bend over backwards to avoid naming any protections they support for babies or their mothers or limits they would place on abortion. Instead of recognizing that Americans deserve clarity on the issue, Democrat pollsters urge Democrat politicians and candidates to avoid discussing milestones that humanize the child in the womb at all costs. They are caving to the louder abortion on demand activist voices.

Kennedys campaign attempted a quick apology tour to mop up his statements by showing his unfailing support for unlimited abortion sharing, He does not support legislation banning abortion. So no limits or boundaries, at all. Quite the swing from abortion in the first trimester to a one-day turnaround of abortion always for any reason.

Unfortunately, unlimited abortion for any reason, any time is already happening in America in seven states and D.C. These states place the United States on the same level of abortion extremism as only one of seven countries in the world with late-term abortions, including human rights abusers like China and North Korea. Countries that engage in non-emergency brutal dismemberment abortions for any reason.

Kennedy has a growing reputation for being outspoken and willing to confront his party on other topics. But rather than providing clarity on an issue that demands it, his flip-flop on abortion leaves voters to wonder which of the two statements reflects his true beliefs about the child in the womb, and who is really running his show  the candidate, consultants, or the abortion lobby. More than that, his waffling reveals a Democratic Party that is increasingly extreme and intolerant of any dissent, and one which is embracing an abortion on demand up-to-birth stance for any reason paid for by the taxpayer.

Emily V. Osment is vice president of communications for Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life America.
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Armin Strom unveils the One Week First Edition  the successor to its first-ever Manufacture movement

More architectural, more open and housed in a new streamlined steel case with an integrated bracelet: Armin Strom completely reimagines one of its most seminal models from the last decade, the One Week, in an all-new form. Debuting as the One Week First Edition limited to 25 examples, it further solidifies Armin Stroms position as a full-fledged independent manufacture producing unprecedented mechanical marvels.

Maker of movements. The true horology connoisseurs manufacture. Armin Strom stands out as one of the handful of exclusive independent watch brands that can pride itself in conceiving, developing and building some of the most exceptional mechanical watches around. Back in 2010, the brand unveiled its very first watch called the One Week featuring a movement that was developed and manufactured in house. Equipped with a seven-day power reserve and designed with symmetrical harmony in mind, the One Week would lay the foundation for many of Armin Stroms groundbreaking developments, placing the brand on the radar of discerning collectors. Now, Armin Strom is revisiting its very first calibre in an all-new design and construction thats bound to make the One Week a staple model in the brands lineup.

As Armin Strom founder Serge Michel noted, When we decided to revisit the One Week, we knew from the beginning that we wanted it to be an all-occasions watch: sporty yet sophisticated, intricate yet legible, and filled with immersive little details that even the most demanding collector can appreciate. It was also important for us that the new One Week be instantly recognizable as an Armin Strom by integrating and further refining many of the design elements that have become characteristic of our more recent creations.

A radical construction

As devotees of transparent horology, Armin Strom makes it a point to always feature kinetic mechanical elements on the dial side. The One Week First Edition takes this core Armin Strom trait a step further. Completely reengineered and redesigned, the manual-winding movement is as sculptural as it gets. Form, function, aesthetics and ergonomics are all harmoniously brought into the foreground, resulting in a piece of otherwise traditional horology executed in a dynamic, radical way.

One Week First Edition  Armin Strom

The One Week from 2010 holds a special place for the Armin Strom manufacture as it was the first movement we completely developed and built in-house. We went far beyond simply giving it a facelift, as it is in fact an entirely redesigned and reengineered movement. From the two barrels working in series for better isochronism to the 3D power reserve display and the increased beat rate, the new One Week is definitely a milestone achievement for our team in Biel, remarked Claude Greisler, master watchmaker and co-founder of the revitalised Armin Strom.

Far more than a remake

True to its name and just like its predecessor, the One Week delivers an impressive seven-day power reserve. But thats where the similarities end. The new manual-winding ARM21 calibre features two mainspring barrels, which work in series to provide consistent levels of energy to the gear train. Held by two finger-style bridges, the barrels are symmetrically arranged on the right portion of the completely open dial. The manual winding ritual takes on a hypnotic choreography, as the motion of two ratchet wheels winding up the two barrels in opposite directions is entirely visible from the dial side.

One of the most distinctive features of the new One Week is its power reserve indicator. Keeping with the architectural depth of the movement, the power reserve is indicated by a cone system, inspired by pocket watches. This consists of a mirror-polished cone, which is driven by a conical gear on the opposite side of the dial.

New movement, new beat rate. Another major evolution in the new One Week is the oscillating frequency of the regulating organ. As it is designed as an all-occasions watch that can take on dynamic activities, the beat rate has been increased from 2.5 Hz to 3.5 Hz (25,200 vph). This higher frequency, which offers a more stable chronometric performance, meant that the entire gear train had to be recalculated and reconfigured.

The pursuit of balance and depth

Another surprising first for Armin Strom is the placement of the hour and minute hands. Normally, Armin Strom watches feature offset hour and minute hands, either on a subsidiary dial as small hands or slightly off from the centre as large hands. In the One Week, the faceted hour and minute hands filled with Super-LumiNova are perfectly positioned in the centre of the open dial, further enhancing its visual balance.

One Week First Edition  Armin Strom

In fact, compared to the previous generation of the One Week, which featured a partially open dial to expose the movement, the new One Week was conceived to be much more three-dimensional. It totally foregoes a traditional dial, instead adopting a contemporary architecture, with various movement elements positioned in such a way that they can be explored from many angles. The bridge holding the hands has been designed with a geometric form to rise above the mainplate. Keeping legibility optimal, the movement is surrounded by a chapter ring set with baton indices filled with Super-LumiNova. The small seconds at 9 oclock are displayed on a small black dial, emblazoned with the brands AS logo.

All in the execution

Like all Armin Strom creations, from the purest to the most complex, the One Week is a masterclass in haute horlogerie hand-finishing. Straight and circular grained surfaces, chamfered and polished bevels, Geneva-striped plates and polished screws and sinks are clearly applied by expert hands.

The One Week First Edition stands out in particular with its cool light blue PVD-coloured mainplate and bridges. The One Weeks micromechanical sculpture of a movement is housed in a suitably contemporary case. Crafted in stainless steel, it measures 41 mm in width and only 10.6 mm in height, surprisingly compact proportions for a calibre of such intense depth. Paired with an integrated steel bracelet consisting of H-shaped satin-brushed and polished links, the overall design is holistic with an emphasis on ergonomics to make for a perfect everyday wear piece full of mechanical intrigue.

The One Week First Edition is limited to 25 pieces and will be delivered with an extended warranty period of 10 years, instead of Armin Stroms usual 5-year warranty. It will also be distinguished from future editions with its light blue PVD coloured mainplate and bridges.
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Over 600 students gathered Saturday at the Tate Student Center Grand Hall for the annual Dawg Day of Service event. This year marked the 10th year the Engagement, Leadership and Service Department has provided this volunteering service for students. With 689 students signing up this year, there was the largest number of volunteers since before the COVID-19 pandemic.
The University of Georgia fall 2023 and spring 2024 commencement ceremony dates were announced on Tuesday. Commencement for fall 2023 will take place on Dec. 15 at Stegeman Coliseum, and commencement for spring 2024 will span May 9-10, according to an email from Archnews.
Companies in India are planning to press the pedal on capital expenditure (capex) in the coming months to cash in on rising consumption demand and the governments Rs 10 trillion investment in infrastructure.

A dipstick survey of 22 chief executive officers (CEOs) across India shows that over 86 per cent of the respondents have invested in the past one year and they plan to do more in the coming months.

Several CEOs said the governments plan to invest Rs 10 trillion in new roads, highways, and railways would result in new orders for their companies. As a result, companies are expanding capacity.

All the CEOs said infrastructure had improved in the past nine years since 2014, when Narendra Modi became prime minister.

The Reserve Bank of Indias (RBIs) recent statement also indicated a rise in capex as project loans to the private sector by banks showed fresh sanctions at 2.2 per cent of loans in FY23 (versus 1.3 per cent in FY22) and pending disbursements at 1.4 per cent of loans.

However, while there is improvement, some analysts say the gains are still not widespread.

While this is an improvement from what we have seen in the previous few years, we would want to believe that we are still not in a robust phase of growth. Infrastructure like power and roads and bridges remains a preferred destination for bank funding.

"There is a marginal increase in mega projects, a report by Kotak Institutional Securities said.

Investment by India Inc is led by large firms.

While the latest is engineering major Larsen & Toubro, which, along with its joint-venture partners, is planning to invest up to $4 billion in green hydrogen.

Earlier Adani Group had said it planned to put in $70 billion in renewable energy by 2027.

Likewise, Reliance Industries and Tata Group are investing around $9.2 billion each in green energy.

The RBIs statement said private firms aggregate project cost of Rs 2.7 trillion had received financial closures from banks/financial institutions in FY23  the first Rs 2 trillion print since the Rs 4.1 trillion peak seen in FY2010 thus highlighting optimism on capex.

When asked about the performance of the Modi government over the past nine years, 73 per cent of the respondents rated it good.

Another 23 per cent said it was average, while only 4.55 per cent called it bad.

Against the backdrop of recent scrutiny by investigating agencies of some business houses, 59 per cent of the CEOs said they were not worried while the rest said they were.

When asked whether they expected buoyancy in the Indian stock markets to continue, 59 per cent said the markets would stay robust in the coming months.

Almost 55 per cent expect the rupee to weaken further.

When asked about their biggest concern, over 27 per cent cited rising prices as a major one while 23 per cent held duopolies as the culprit.

Around 18 per cent cited unequal growth as a major problem facing the country while the rest raised several other issues including dependence on China for raw materials.

An overwhelming majority of 91 per cent of the CEOs said the government should offer more tax incentives to the salaried class, which is facing the brunt of rising prices and did not receive any substantial tax cuts in the past few years.

With respect to internal security, 55 per cent of the CEOs said they were not worried about the recent riots in Manipur and Haryana.

Fifty-nine per cent said they did not believe the new Opposition alliance was strong enough to take on the BJP in the general elections next year.

(Dev Chatterjee with Sohini Das, Ishita Dutt, Shine Jacob, Sundar Sethuraman, Abhishek Kumar, Anjali Singh and Ajinkya Kawale)
Worried by a spike in Chinese imports, the Indian Steel Association (ISA) plans to take up the matter with the government and seek measures to fix "trade distortions".

Photograph: Amit Dave/Reuters

Alok Sahay, secretary general of the group that represents the countrys steel producers, said systemic changes were needed.

In order to take any trade measure, it takes a minimum of 15 months time, due to prevalence of lesser duty rule in India, making India an easy target.

"We are going to write to the government on this, he said.

For a level playing field, trade distortions created by exporting countries have to be countered well in time and effectively.

The ISAs data showed that India imported 570,000 tonnes of Chinese steel in April-July of 2023-24 (FY24), an increase of 63 per cent compared to the same period last year.

Imports from Korea were 685,000 tonnes, a 4 per cent dip from last year.

The ISA data is sourced from the Joint Plant Committee (JPC), which is empowered by the government to collect numbers on the Indian iron and steel industry.

Demand for steel in China slumped after the countrys property market ran into trouble, but production increased as Indias economic growth provided an opportunity.

Global steel production moderated, but it went up in China by 2.5 per cent to 627 million tonnes (mt) in January-July 2023, said Jayant Acharya, joint managing director and chief executive officer of JSW Steel.

The domestic demand in China remains muted, resulting in higher steel exports from China.

"Steel exports from China have risen 28 per cent to 51 mt as a result, he said.

India remains one of the few bright spots amid a weak global economic outlook, which makes it vulnerable to increased imports at unfair prices.

According to Indian companies, Chinese imports were impacting prices.

Data from SteelMint showed that the average monthly price of hot-rolled coil (HRC) ex-Mumbai  a benchmark for flat steel  was at Rs 59,938 per tonne in April. It fell to Rs 55,500 per tonne in July.

Jayanta Roy, senior vice-president at ratings agency ICRA, said Chinese imports had increased on the back of a price difference of 5-8 per cent in the first quarter of FY24 between landed cost of imports and domestic prices.

Ranjan Dhar, chief marketing officer at ArcelorMittal Nippon Steel India (AM/NS India), said that Chinese mills were focused on global markets, leading to a dual impact on the Indian steel industry.

First, the Chinese mills are gaining a foothold in our traditional export markets, and second, they are pushing products into the Indian market at lower prices.

"In response to this situation, the government should promptly consider implementing quotas for countries with free-trade agreements (FTAs) and imposing anti-dumping duties on imports from countries without FTAs, said Dhar.

Global demand for steel has been muted, adding to the worry of Indian steelmakers. Indias finished steel exports in April-June were down 6.4 per cent compared to the same period last year; flat products were down 0.3 per cent.

Sahay said that without a stable trade environment, investment in the sector would suffer.

Indian steel companies would add about 30 mt in capacity between FY24 and FY26.

Acharya said the European Union and the US had put in safeguards, but India had no effective trade measures and stood exposed.

It is time for the government to put in place safeguard mechanisms to ensure that Indian steel investments are not put to risk.

ICRAs Roy said that when India imposed anti-dumping duty measures in 2016, steel imports from China came down and the share of FTA countries (Korea and Japan) increased.

But the anti-dumping duty was withdrawn in 2021 when the property market also tanked in China, which may have led to an increase in imports from China, he said.
The government has decided to extend the Rs 25,938-crore production-linked incentive scheme for the automotive sector by one year, Union Heavy Industries Minister Mahendra Nath Pandey said on Tuesday.

Photograph: Adnan Abidi/Reuters

Post extension, the five-year scheme, originally in place from 2022-23 to 2026-27, will be active until 2027-28.

At present, incentives are applicable under the scheme for determined sales of Advanced Automotive Technology (AAT) products (vehicles and components) manufactured in India from 1 April 2022 onwards for a period of five consecutive years.

"The scheme is being extended by one year," the heavy industries minister told PTI, after reviewing the performance of the scheme with stakeholders in New Delhi.

Speaking with reporters on the sidelines earlier, he shared that the ministry has also accepted other suggestions made by auto industry stakeholders pertaining to the scheme including quarterly disbursement of subsidies and increasing the number of agencies testing domestic value addition from two at present to four.

"We hope that the schemes will gather pace due to these measures," Pandey said.

Delivering the keynote address at the review meeting, Pandey called for industry's feedback and collaborative engagement to shape the policies, procedures and effectiveness of the PLI scheme.

He said that the government is committed to fostering a conducive business environment and accelerating growth in the Indian Automotive sector.

The minister mentioned that the PLI-AUTO scheme incentivizes only those eligible AAT products for which a minimum of 50 per cent Domestic Value Addition (DVA) is achieved and has been certified by Testing Agencies (TAs) of MHI.

This criterion shall reduce imports, facilitate deep localization for AAT products and enable creation of domestic as well as global supply chains.

As many as 95 companies have been admitted under the scheme that looks to promote local manufacturing of new technology products such as electric vehicles (EV) through subsidies.

The investment as reported by the applicants (till 30th June 2023) is Rs 10,755 crore.

To facilitate ease of doing business (EODB) in the scheme, MHI published Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for DVA certification on 27th April 2023.

Thereafter, two applicants namely Tata Motors and Mahindra & Mahindra have received DVA certification, and four more applicants have applied for DVA certification.

Further, another 23 applicants are expected to apply for DVA certification by the end of September 2023.

A detailed SOP is being framed for verification and processing incentive claims and stakeholder consultations for the same shall be initiated shortly.

The scheme has two parts: Champion OEM, which will make electric or hydrogen-powered vehicles, and Component Champions, which will make high-value and high-tech components.
On Independence Day, 24 August, Ukrainian (and other) cinemas premiered the adventure and historical drama Dovbush directed by Oles Sanin. This is the most expensive and largest film in the history of Ukrainian cinema. Its budget was about UAH 120 million, UAH 65 million of which was provided by the state.

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Filming started back in 2018, but the release of the film was first postponed due to the coronavirus, and then the full-scale invasion. However, many film critics agreed that Dovbush was released at the right time - right now, more than ever, it resonates with Ukrainians in the face of the brutal military reality. OBOZREVATEL decided to collect ratings and reviews from viewers and experts, and tell you why the film is worth your attention.

What is Dovbush about?

This heroic biopic with fictional elements offers us a closer look at the story of the legendary Carpathian opryshko Oleksa Dovbush. He personally encounters the cruelty of the Polish gentry, and he is concerned about the enslavement of his own people. Betrayal, the murder of his parents and personal enmity lead Dovbush to take up arms. The plot focuses not only on Oleksa, but also on his brother Ivan. The latter is driven by a desire to gain fame and fortune, while Oleksa longs for justice.

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The Polish nobility is trying to eliminate Dovbush, who was considered immortal. The Carpathian knight turned out to be more cunning than his enemies, and therefore managed to win.

"My film is about two words: "fame" and "hero". It's about what fame does to people. The protagonist wanted a simple, ordinary life, but circumstances forced him to defend his homeland, and people followed him. He didn't want to be a hero, but he took up arms, just like artists and teachers, doctors and journalists have done now," the film's director described his idea.

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Actors

The film stars not only Ukrainian but also Polish and American actors:

Oleksa Dovbush - Serhiy Strelnikov

Ivan Dovbush - Oleksiy Gnatkovskyi

Marichka - Daria Plakhtyi

Przeluski - Mateusz Kostiukiewicz

Princess Jablonowska - Agata Buzek

Opryshky - Petro Zhyrun, Pavlo Zhyrun, Dmytro Vyvchariuk, Roman Yasynovskyi, Rostyslav Derzhypolskyi

Reasons why you should watch Dovbush

Scale. Oles Sanin's film grossed over UAH 8.7 million during its first weekend of release, and the number of tickets sold was 59.8 thousand. And it's not just about the budget. Some numbers: the most popular scene involved about 498 actors, and 596 people were on the set together with the production team. More than 1000 costumes were created, a team of 3000 people worked on the production, and the scenes were filmed at 20 different locations. 196 people from the art department built the locations from scratch.

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"It is clearly seen that the budget was spent on high-quality production. Costumes, weapons, armour, houses and castles, on-location filming at different times of the day, many locations, scenes with extras - it is not known when we will see such a scale next time, because such money will not be allocated soon (at least, if we talk about public funds). The work of the actors also does not cause any complaints (and I would like to note the use of the Hutsul dialect and Polish language - authentically, clearly, very legibly and organically). The screenwriters and director also understand their job well," the critics shared their impressions in a review on the Kinowar website.

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The film resonates. Stories about struggle, as we have already mentioned, resonate particularly strongly with Ukrainian audiences today. Ukrainians have a demand to learn about their history and identity, and therefore such films are in demand.

The acting. Critics praised the acting. Serhiy Strelnikov took the lead role, but many experts paid more attention to Oleksiy Hnatovsky, who played Ivan Dovbush. His contradictory "bad-good" character cannot leave anyone indifferent. Darya Plakhtyi portrayed Oleksa Dovbush's beloved Marichka, and her work is described as "deep and multifaceted".

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An epic built according to all the laws of the epic genre. Some experts have criticised the film for the "lack of internal motivation of the protagonist" and the "simplicity of the story". However, the director and screenwriter Maryna Stepanska strongly disagrees with these statements. She explained: "It is a large-scale visual canvas with archetypal characters who exist and act in a symbolic field (the protagonist literally conquers death, goes through the classic path of a mythological hero from a mere human to a titan, overcoming death). That is why the claims about the "smallness of the characters" and "simplicity of the story" are irrelevant here; this is not a psychological drama about a man from the village and his mistress Marichka and how their relationship developed. This is a story about the formation of a titan in a mythical dimension. That's why it was a pleasure for me to watch how skilfully this path was constructed by the director."

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Artistic digressions. The director did not limit himself to the story of struggle, revenge and war. The viewer can observe an interesting development of the relationship between the two brothers, as well as the love story. The characters show their character not only in heroic scenes full of action, but also in everyday scenes that reveal their essence even more. In addition, the director showed his vision of the story in the finale, changing the original version in which Dovbush was crucified and cut to death.

"I didn't want to make a film about how the body of the protagonist, in whom I believe, was thrown to the dogs. I found a cinematic way to say that a hero cannot be killed. Sometimes his name is bigger than he is," Sanin commented.

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What else you need to know about the film

Vitaliy Gordienko, the creator of the popular YouTube channel Cinema Fan Squad, drew attention to an interesting nuance: after the film's release, the fact that the Poles in Dovbush were shown as villains, while Poland was actively helping Ukraine after the full-scale invasion of Ukraine, was manipulated online.

"It will be easy for some ill-wishers to manipulate the plot and show that the Poles are helping Ukrainians, while they are making them look like villains in their most expensive film. Social media is already trying to fuel this scandal. In Poland, the screening of this film was postponed until after the elections. The director explained why Poles should not be offended by the film. For example, although it is difficult to notice, there is a Pole among the opryshky, and there are never any clashes based on ethnicity, and there is no emphasis on this. There is only the idea of freedom. In general, at that time, states were far from being called national. Therefore, we cannot say that we are accusing Poland of anything," commented Gordienko in his review.

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Film critic Kyrylo Pishchykov voiced many of the disadvantages he found in the film. At the same time, he compared the film to the cult Game of Thrones. He shared that for him, the family drama of two brothers seemed more interesting than the main storyline, which was "lame".

However, Pishchikov's conclusion was as follows: "Dovbush is in some ways an outstanding essence of contemporary Ukrainian cinema - the form and presentation are quite decent, but the story is still lame on both legs. Still, it is worth paying attention to this film, because we are unlikely to see such a large-scale and ambitious Ukrainian film in the near future."

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As OBOZREVATEL previously reported, Russian propagandists spent 200 million rubles (UAH 78 million) on the shameful film Witness, which was supposed to mislead the world about the genocide of Ukrainians in Bucha and Irpin. However, the efforts of the Kremlin film studio were not appreciated even within the country.

Only verified information is available on our Obozrevatel Telegram channel, Threads and Viber. Don't fall for fakes!
'The next war will be fought by China-Pakistan against India and we have to fully be prepared. We must read the writing on the wall.'

IMAGE: Indian troops advance into East Pakistan (now Bangladesh) during the 1971 War. Photograph: Central Press/Getty Images from the Rediff Archives

Major General Ian Cardozo had just saved a boy from drowning. As he swam ashore and emerged from the water, the crowd at the beach was surprised to see that he had only one leg.

The war disabled officer had taken off his wooden leg to save the boy from being swept away by a strong tide when many other able swimmers were daunted by the rough sea.

"Those of us who are disabled have to continuously prove that we are as good, sometimes even better than the rest -- and that has been the credo of my life," says the decorated officer who lost his leg in the 1971 War with Pakistan.

Major General Cardozo fought in the 1962 War with China, the 1965 and 1971 Wars with Pakistan. A young Major during the 1971 War, he stepped on a mine which blew his leg off.

He learnt to walk, climb, swim again and bravely overcame his disability to become the first war disabled officer to command an infantry battalion and a division.

He retired as chief of staff of a corps in the North East and extensively worked for the rehabilitation of war wounded soldiers.

A military historian, he has written a highly acclaimed autobiography Cartoos Sahib and 1971: Stories Of Grit And Glory From The Indo-Pak War. His just published book Beyond Fear is a collection of true stories drawn from life in the armed forces.

The stories are an inspirational and moving account of the men and women in the armed forces and their families.

The decorated officer and military legend spoke to Rediff.com's Archana Masih in a must-read two-part phone interview.

One of the stories in your book that Rediff posted was about Squadron Leader A B Devayya who was killed in action after a heroic dogfight the 1965 War and awarded a Mahavir Chakra 23 years later.

This is the only story about the Indian Air Force in your book, why did you choose to tell this story?

Squadron Leader 'Tubby' Devayya attacked a Pakistan air force Starfighter aircraft which was superior in avionics, guns, armament and equipment compared to his Mystere.

Devayya was at the tail end of the IAF's fighter group. He was running short of fuel and yet turned around to engage with the enemy.

His aircraft was shot and damaged badly, but he followed the Starfighter with persistence and managed to destroy it.

It was the only Starfighter destroyed in aerial combat in the 1965 War.

Squadron Leader Devayya was killed in action and his conduct in the war showed his love for the country, squadron and the Air Force.

He kept his honour intact and did not break away from pursuing the Starfighter to fight another day, but decided to engage with the enemy. It tells us about his self-sacrifice because he knew he'd never come back which made the story what it is.

These are the great qualities of Indian soldiers, sailors and airmen.

The intriguing part of this story was that his fellow pilots did not know what happened. His Commanding Officer O P Taneja was waiting for him to return, but he never came back and nobody knew whatever happened. He was listed as 'missing in action'.

What Tubby Devayya did only came out in John Fricker's Battle for Pakistan: The Air War of 1965 (published in Pakistan in 1979), which narrated the story of this air battle.

It was then that Wing Commander O P Taneja pieced together what actually happened. It took him eight years to fight the system to ensure that his pilot was given the honour that was due.

Tubby Devayya was given the Mahavir Chakra 23 years after the incident which is a record.

It is also tribute to Wing Commander Taneja's persistent efforts.

Absolutely! He never gave up fighting for his pilot. It is also a credit to the IAF that it accepted the wing commander's recommendation.

IMAGE: A visual from the India-Pakistan War of 1965. Photograph: Kind courtesy The Madras Regiment

Your stories also tell us that soldiering is not only about guns and weapons, but also about winning hearts and minds of insurgents and local populations.

Since you have been chief of staff of a corps in the North East, what are some of the lessons that can be employed in Manipur today to bring peace?

The armed forces are loved by everybody in this country because they are even handed and just. The army can only go to assist civil authority when the government asks for them.

In this case, the government did not call the army.

Firstly, when the army has to maintain curfew in a city or a town, it makes sure that no one is out during that time.

When Indira Gandhi was assassinated, my battalion was posted in Delhi. The lieutenant governor was out in his car and was stopped by a second lieutenant who asked why was he roaming around when there were shoot at sight orders. The lieutenant governor said, 'I issue the orders', and you know what the second lieutenant did?

He said, 'Sir, you should be the first person to obey your own orders.'

The lieutenant governor apologised and said he would go back. The officer said, 'No, sir, if you wish to move around I will give you an escort otherwise you risk being shot at'.

This shows that when orders are issued, the army will make sure they are implemented. The army can stabilise the situation and maintain law and order by ensuring that people don't move out.

The role of the army is to secure the country against external aggression and internal dissension, but it cannot interfere or intrude without the government asking them to aid civil authority.

One of the stories in the book is about how Captain Pillay won hearts and minds in Manipur during the conflict between Nagas and Kukis in 1994.

In Captain Courageous [about Captain Leena, the first lady doctor to serve in a forward area and awarded the medal for gallantry], the corps commander tells the battalion that they are going into an area of their own people and they would have to win the hearts and minds through their action, attitude, behaviour and conduct.

IMAGE: Major General Ian Cardozo. Photograph: Kind courtesy Major General Ian Cardozo (retd)

Captain Leena's is such an inspiring story. You played a pivotal role in ensuring that she was not denied the opportunity to serve in the frontline just because she was a woman.

Today women officers are picking up positions as commanding officers -- what further changes do you expect for women in the armed forces?

As the colonel of the regiment I was clear that she was doing her duty as a doctor in an area which was terrorist-infested because she was part of a combat arm.

The Indian Army is the best army in the world without any iota of doubt because our training, heritage, regimental spirit is what makes us fight and give up our lives in the line of fire.

When former army chief, General (T P) Raina went to the USA after the Vietnam War, the chief of general staff of the US army asked him what is it that makes the Indian soldier such a good fighter.

General Raina told him it was the Indian Army's regimental spirit.

I feel this regimental spirit is likely to be impacted by the Agniveer programme. It is a copy of the West where soldiers are taken in for a short time.

The issue broadly lies in the fact that we Indians ignore our culture, traditions, customs, history, music, dance and ape the West.

In China, soldiers are recruited as conscripts for two years. The American or Chinese soldiers are not a patch on our Indian soldiers.

If soldiers serve only for four years and do not get a pension, will they be loyal to the regiment?

The next war will be fought by China-Pakistan against India and we have to fully be prepared. We must read the writing on the wall.

You mention the regimental spirit while your own regiment -= the Gorkha Rifles -- has stopped recruiting soldiers from Nepal for two years. How is this going to impact the regiment?

Nepal has been driven into the arms of China and we should be very careful. The Gorkhas are very good fighters and will start joining other armies of the world.

IMAGE: Priscilla and Ian Cardozo on their wedding day. Photograph: Major General Ian Cardozo (retd)

Having overcome disability yourself, what are some of the biggest difficulties confronted by soldiers when they return to service?

When I was recovering in hospital, there was no hope. There were only two disabled officers since World War II who had reached brigadier rank. I resolved to do whatever I could -- physically and psychological -- to change the system. I was able to prove that I could walk, run, climb and go back to my troops.

I loved serving in the army and loved my troops. If you do what you love and love what you do, then your disability doesn't matter. You have got to prove that you're as good or better than others.

Thirdly, never be afraid. There will be lots of challenges and you have to convert them into opportunities.

Lastly, never give up.

I believed and I carried on. I continued to focus on running and fitness.

Those of us who are disabled have to continue to prove that we are as good as the rest and that has been the credo of my life.

Part 2 of the Interview: 'When the Pakistanis surrendered...'

Feature Presentation: Aslam Hunani/Rediff.com
India on Tuesday lodged a strong protest with China over its so called 'standard map' laying claim over Arunachal Pradesh and the Aksai Chin, and asserted that such steps only complicate the resolution of the boundary question.

IMAGE: External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar listens to the Spokesperson of the Ministry of External Affairs, Arindam Bagchi, at Hyderabad House, in New Delhi on February 25, 2023. Photograph: ANI Photo

The External Affairs Ministry also rejected these claims as having 'no basis'.

"Just making absurd claims does not make other people's territories yours," External Affairs Minister Jaishankar told NDTV while reacting to the Chinese move.

External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said, "We have today lodged a strong protest through diplomatic channels with the Chinese side on the so called 2023 'standard map' of China that lays claim to India's territory."

"We reject these claims as they have no basis. Such steps by the Chinese side only complicate the resolution of the boundary question," he added.

India's strong reaction came a day after China officially released the 2023 edition of its 'standard map' that claimed Arunachal Pradesh and Aksai Chin as belonging to that country.

The 'map' also showed the entire South China Sea as part of China as it featured in the previous editions of the 'map'.

In early April also, Beijing announced Chinese names for 11 more places in Arunachal Pradesh which the neighbouring country claims as the southern part of Tibet, drawing a sharp reaction from New Delhi, which outrightly rejected Chinese renaming and asserted that the state is an integral part of India and that assigning 'invented' names does not alter this reality.

It was the third batch of standardised geographical names for Arunachal Pradesh issued by China's civil affairs ministry.

The first batch of the standardised names of six places in Arunachal Pradesh was released in 2017 while the second batch of 15 places was issued in 2021.

The ties between India and China came under severe strain following the eastern Ladakh border row that began in May 2020.

The Indian and Chinese troops are locked in an over three-year confrontation in certain friction points in eastern Ladakh even as the two sides completed disengagement from several areas following extensive diplomatic and military talks.

India has been consistently maintaining that peace and tranquillity along the LAC were key for the normalisation of overall ties.
Chief Justice of India D Y Chandrachud on Monday observed that by enacting Article 35A, fundamental rights of equality, liberty to practice profession in any part of the country and others were virtually taken away.

IMAGE: CJI Justice D Y Chandrachud. Photograph: Ayush Sharma/ANI Photo

He made the remarks after Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for the Centre, referred to the contentious provision in the Indian Constitution, saying it gave special rights to only permanent residents of the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir and was discriminatory.

Without naming the two mainstream political parties of the erstwhile state, the Centre told a five-judge bench headed by CJI Chandrachud that citizens have been misguided that the special provisions for Jammu and Kashmir were "not discrimination but a privilege".

"Even today two political parties are before this court defending Article 370 and 35A," the solicitor general told the top court on the 11th day of hearing the litany of pleas challenging the abrogation of the constitutional provision which bestowed special status to the erstwhile state of J-K.

The solicitor general further submitted that the effect of Article 370 was such that by the administrative act of the President and the state government, any part of the Constitution of India with respect to J-K can be amended, altered or even "destroyed" and new provisions can be created.

He said that after the 42nd amendment, the words "Socialist" and "Secular" were not made applicable to Jammu and Kashmir.

"Even the word "Integrity" is not there. Fundamental duties were not there, which exists in the Indian Constitution.

"The Jammu and Kashmir Constitution provided for a separate provision for permanent residents of J-K in Article 7. It removed references to Scheduled Tribes from Article 15(4). Other Articles 19, 22, 31, 31A and 32 were applied with some modifications," Mehta said.

On Article 35A, he said it was discriminatory, to say the least.

"Under the provision (A-35A), people like sanitation workers working in the erstwhile state for decades were not given equal rights like that of permanent residents of J-K.

"This discrimination continued till the provision was abrogated in 2019. Non-permanent residents of J-K were not able to purchase lands, could not avail scholarship, employment in the state government," he said, urging the court to look into issues from the "eyes of people".

CJI Chandrachud deciphering Mehta's submissions said that by enacting Article 35A, "you virtually took away fundamental rights" of equality, liberty to practice profession in any part of the country and even granted immunity from legal challenges and the power of judicial review.

The Solicitor General said, "People were misguided by those - who were supposed to guide them - that this was not a discrimination but a privilege. Even today two political parties are before this court defending Article 370 and 35A."

Mehta submitted that the Constitution of Jammu and Kashmir needed to be repealed because it could not co-exist with the Indian constitution.

The apex court also prima facie agreed with the Centre's submission on pleas challenging the abrogation of Article 370 that the Constitution of Jammu and Kashmir is "subordinate" to the Indian Constitution, which is on a higher pedestal.

The bench, however, did not seem to agree with the plea that the Constituent Assembly of the erstwhile state, which was disbanded in 1957, was in reality a legislative assembly.
Assam Rifles has slapped a legal notice against a Manipur politician for harming the "reputation of the organisation" and discouraging and demoralising the Central armed police force.

IMAGE: Security forces deployed in Imphal, Manipur. Photograph: ANI Photo

The notice by a Shillong-based lawyer was served on Maheshwar Thounaojam, national secretary of the Republican Party of India-Athawale, on August 18.

The notice said the country's oldest paramilitary force has been serving the nation, playing a crucial role in ensuring peace, security, and development in various regions, including Manipur.

"It is also pertinent to mention that although the State of Manipur is not a notified area under AFSPA [Armed Force Special Powers Act], the competent magistrate had specifically issued requisitions dated May 3 and May 5, for the armed forces to be deployed there for aiding in maintenance of law and order," the notice said.

Thounaojam told PTI he will not apologise and he was entitled to free speech in a democratic country like India.

"I did not make any statement, I had asked a question. I did not speak as a politician, but as a Meitei. Every Meitei here knows how some Assam Rifles officials dance and sing with Kuki militants, there are videos to prove this. I was reiterating something which is known to all Meitei people here," Thounaojam said.

Assam Rifles sought a written and public apology for the "false allegation and defamation" asking him to retract the statement he made at 'Condolence of Meitei Martyrs' in Delhi on June 30.

The notice mentioned that at the meet, Thounaojam had said, "The villagers also reported that the Assam Rifles has been helping the Kuki militants in order to burn down the village defence force."
The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has filed a closure report in a case against a company founded by Mumbai's former police commissioner Sanjay Pandey which had allegedly violated Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) norms in auditing two National Stock Exchange (NSE) stock brokers who were using the scam-tainted co-location facility, officials said Tuesday.

Photograph: Hitesh Harisinghani / Rediff.com IMAGE: Former Mumbai Police Commissioner Sanjay Pandey.

In its closure report submitted before a special CBI court New Delhi, the agency is understood to have said it did not find enough evidence to prosecute the accused.

The court has fixed September 14 as the next date for hearing.

The special court may accept the closure, reject it, ask for more investigation or order a trial on the basis of material submitted by the agency, officials said.

The CBI had registered the FIR on May 19 against the company, iSec Services, on a reference from the Enforcement Directorate.

The FIR had red flagged several violations of a SEBI circular by the firm in conducting system audits of stock brokers involved in algorithmic trading using the co-location facility, which is under the CBI scanner now.

The CBI has alleged that iSec services had conducted audits of two 'high risk brokers' -- SMC Global Securities Ltd and Shaastra Securities Trading Private Limited -- in a fraudulent manner when the co-location 'scam' was going on.

The CBI had earlier arrested former MD and CEO of NSE, Chitra Ramkrishna, in the co-location scam case, they said.

Pandey who had founded the company in 2001 had quit as its director in May 2006. His son and mother later took charge of the company.

The police officer had studied at IIT-Kanpur and Harvard University, and is understood to have established the company after he resigned from service.

His resignation was not accepted by the state government and he rejoined but was not immediately given a posting.

He was made Commissioner of Mumbai Police during the Uddhav Thackeray-led Maha Vikas Aghadi government and later retired.
China on Monday officially released the 2023 edition of its standard map incorporating the disputed areas including its claims over Arunachal Pradesh, Aksai Chin region, Taiwan and the disputed South China Sea.

IMAGE: A monastery is decorated in Arunachal Pradesh's Tawang. Photograph: ANI Photo

India has repeatedly said that the state of Arunachal Pradesh has "always been" and will "always be" an integral part of the country.

The 2023 edition of China's standard map was officially released on Monday and launched on the website of the standard map service hosted by the Ministry of Natural Resources, state-run Global Times said in a post on X, formerly Twitter.

This map is compiled based on the drawing method of the national boundaries of China and various countries in the world, the post said.

The map also displayed by the Global Times showed Arunachal Pradesh, which China claims as South Tibet, and Aksai Chin occupied by it in the 1962 war.

India has repeatedly told China that "Arunachal Pradesh was, is and will always remain an integral and inalienable part of India."

The map also incorporated China's claims over the estranged island of Taiwan and the nine-dash line claiming a large part of the South China Sea.

China claims Taiwan as part of its mainland and its integration with the mainland is part of a vowed objective of Chinese President Xi Jinping.

Vietnam, the Philippines, Malaysia, Brunei and Taiwan have counterclaims over the South China Sea areas.
As the Indian Space Research Organisation set to launch its solar mission Aditya-L1 on September 2, following are some important missions launched by space agencies of different countries exploring the Sun.

US

National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), the US space agency, launched the Parker Solar Probe in August 2018. In December 2021, Parker flew through the Sun's upper atmosphere, the corona, and sampled particles and magnetic fields there. This was the first time ever that a spacecraft touched the Sun, according to NASA's official website.

In February 2020, the NASA joined hands with the European Space Agency (ESA) and launched The Solar Orbiter to collect data to find out how the Sun created and controlled the constantly changing space environment throughout the solar system.

Other active solar missions by the NASA are Advanced Composition Explorer launched in August, 1997; Solar Terrestrial Relations Observatory in October, 2006; Solar Dynamics Observatory in February, 2010; and Interface Region Imaging Spectrograph launched in June, 2013.

Also, in December, 1995, NASA, ESA and JAXA (Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency) jointly launched the Solar and Heliospheric Observatory (SOHO).

Japan

JAXA, the Japan's space agency, launched its first solar observation satellite, Hinotori (ASTRO-A), in 1981. The objective was to study solar flares using hard X-rays, according to JAXA's official website.

JAXA's other solar exploratory missions are Yohkoh (SOLAR-A) launched in 1991; SOHO (along with NASA and ESA) in 1995; and Transient Region and Coronal Explorer (TRACE), along with NASA, in 1998.

In 2006, Hinode (SOLAR-B) was launched, which was the successor to Yohkoh (SOLAR-A), the orbiting solar observatory. Japan launched it in collaboration with the US and the UK. The objective of Hinode, an observatory satellite, is to study the impact of the Sun on the Earth.

Europe

In October, 1990, the ESA launched Ulysses to study the environment of space above and below the poles of the Sun. Other than solar missions launched in collaboration with the NASA and the JAXA, the ESA launched Proba-2 in October, 2001.

Proba-2 is the second of the Proba series, building on nearly eight years of successful Proba-1 experience, even as Proba-1 was not a solar exploratory mission.

On-Board Proba-2 were four experiments, two of them were solar observation experiments.

Proba stands for Project for On-Board Autonomy. Upcoming solar missions of the ESA include Proba-3, scheduled for 2024 and Smile, scheduled for 2025.

China

The Advanced Space-based Solar Observatory (ASO-S) was successfully launched by National Space Science Center, Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), on October 8, 2022.
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi is likely to visit Europe next month and meet European Commission lawmakers in Belgium besides addressing students at a university in Paris.

IMAGE: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi attends a prayer meeting to mark 79th birth anniversary of his father and former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi at the banks of Pangong Lake, in Leh. Photograph: ANI Photo

He is also likely to address the Indian diaspora at an event in Oslo in early September, sources said.

Notably, his visits abroad will come at a time when the crucial G20 Summit will be held from September 9 to 10 in the national capital. India currently holds the G20 presidency.

The sources said the Gandhi scion is likely to leave for Paris in the first week of September for a five-day tour.

He will attend a meeting with European Union members in Brussels on September 7.

According to the sources, the former Congress chief will address students at a university in Paris on September 8 and deliver a lecture there. He is also slated to participate in a meeting of the Labour Union of France in Paris on September 9.

Thereafter, the sources said Gandhi is slated to visit Norway where he will address the Indian diaspora event on September 10.

Gandhi will meet members of the diaspora and may also hold a press conference, they added.
Batting for a pre-poll alliance with the ruling Sikkim Krantikari Morcha (SKM) in next year's assembly elections in Sikkim, Gangtok's Bharatiya Janata Party MLA Y T Lepcha has claimed that the saffron party "will not be able to secure even 500 votes" if it contests the polls alone.

Lepcha sounded a discordant note with the state BJP leadership, which has stated that the party was not satisfied with alliance partner SKM, headed by Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang, popularly known as P S Golay, and may consider fighting the assembly polls alone.

"The BJP's chances of winning any seat in the assembly polls in Sikkim due in 2024 is minimal without a tie-up with the SKM," he told reporters on Monday.

"The BJP has not won even a panchayat seat on its own. We won two assembly bypolls in alliance with the SKM," Lepcha said, pointing to his own victory from Gangtok seat and that of S T Venchungpa from Martam Rumtek seat.

"I personally favour that the alliance between the SKM and the BJP should continue even in 2024," Lepcha said, while exuding confidence that if the two parties fight the polls together, their coalition will win the election comfortably.

BJP spokesperson Kamal Adhikari, however, said the views expressed by Lepcha were his personal opinion.

"We will contest all the 32 assembly seats in Sikkim on our own as there has been no deliberation between the two parties on any alliance so far," he said.

He said the BJP was committed to ensuring the sanctity of Article 371(F) which provides special status to the Himalayan state.

"Some local political activists are accusing the BJP of being an anti-Sikkimese party by claiming that the constitutional provisions protecting old laws of Sikkim are being diluted by the ruling party at the Centre. These charges are disinformation against the party," Adhikari said.

"Our national and state leaders have said time and again said that the BJP was committed to defending the sanctity of Article 371(F) at all costs," he said.

The BJP has an informal alliance with the ruling SKM, the government of which it extends support from outside.

The BJP has 12 MLAs, ten of whom had defected from the opposition Sikkim Democratic Front (SDF) in 2019, while two others were elected on the party symbol in assembly polls held the same year.
Brattleboro, VT (05301)

Today

Cloudy with periods of rain. High 52F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 100%..

Tonight

Cloudy skies early, then partly cloudy after midnight. Low 34F. Winds NW at 5 to 10 mph.
Russia is trying to lure men into the armed forces with higher salaries. Since February 2022, they have risen from 81 to over 200,000 rubles, which is almost three times the average salary in Russia.

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The increase in payments may encourage poor Russians to sign contracts, but it is unlikely that the aggressor state will be able to fulfill plans to recruit volunteers for the war with Ukraine. This was reported in the UK Ministry of Defense.

British intelligence noted that after the start of full-scale armed aggression against Ukraine, Russia has been increasing the size of salaries for its servicemen.

For example, on February 4, 2022, less than a month before the invasion began, a lieutenant in the Russian army, according to Russian President Vladimir Putin, received 81,200 rubles a month.

Already in October 2022, the incomes of Russian servicemen increased significantly: then Putin announced that even the privates who joined the army under mobilization would receive 195,000 rubles a month. And junior officers fighting against Ukraine receive more than 200 thousand rubles.

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"This is more than 2.7 times the average salary in Russia, which is 72,851 rubles. For comparison, 2.7 times the average salary in the UK would equal more than 90,000 a year," the British defense ministry said .

The Kremlin's intentions to lure as many men as possible into the army have been attributed to the growing "profitability" of military service. And this is partly working.

"It is likely that the salary and additional payments are a strong incentive for personnel to join, especially from Russia's poorer regions. However, Russia is unlikely to meet its plans to recruit volunteers to the Russian Armed Forces," the UK Ministry of Defense stated.

We will remind, earlier Britain's intelligence explained why Russia canceled the training "West-2023". The aggressor state had several reasons for this. On the one hand, Russia's failures in the war against Ukraine have shown that joint exercises with the Russian army are of limited practical value. In addition, the Russian Federation is probably short of troops and equipment, and the Russian leadership is also afraid of criticism for conducting exercises in the middle of a war.

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Brenna Galdenzi writes for Protect Our Wildlife in Stowe. The opinions expressed by columnists do not necessarily reflect the views of Vermont News & Media.
By Azernews

Rena Murshud

Some rhetorics, unpleasant expressions and behaviors towards Azerbaijan have been observed from the Russian State Duma for several times. After some of the rhetoric of the anti-Azerbaijani Konstantin Zatulin, the repeated political mistakes that may even cause diplomatic tension between the two countries have already started to raise many questions about Russian politicians.

On the eve of Azerbaijan's struggle with separatism in Garabagh, the participation of an official of the Russian State Duma in support of another event promoting separatism against Azerbaijan has greatly disappointed Azerbaijan.

Perhaps everyone remembers the claim of a number of factions who took advantage of the gap in the state system of Azerbaijan, which had just left the Soviet Union in 1993, to establish a kind of "Talish-Mugan autonomous republic". Those events were a part of the separatist politics that spread on ethnic grounds, as in Garabagh. However, thanks to the visionary policy of national leader Heydar Aliyev, those attempts were resolutely prevented.

The oher day, an event was held in the Russian city of Yekaterinburg to celebrate the anniversary of the attempt that took place 30 years ago. And the most interesting point is the participation of the head of the Russian State Duma, Igor Volodin. He explained his participation in this event, directed against the state policy and territorial integrity of the Republic of Azerbaijan, simply by not allowing discrimination between nationalities. However, Volodyn's participation in the event reveals two main points: either the head of the State Duma has no political knowledge and is not aware of the states of the region, or the politicians sitting in the Russian State Duma aim to create tension between Russia and Azerbaijan. In both cases, this step is a big blow to the political influence of the Russian state.

"Unfortunately, such political mistakes are related not only to the Caucasian states, but also to Chechnya and the Volga region, and this is not the first time.... In general, according to the constitution, foreign policy is the President and the Foreign Ministry. I am very sorry that such events are taking place in my country. This is, of course, a Shame for us."

Russian political analyst Alexander Razuvaev told this in a comment on the matter for Azernews, saying that such behavior is not conducive to good neighborly relations between Russia and Azerbaijan.

According to the political analyst, Yekaterinburg in Russia is known for its political life. Opposition to Putin, the pro-Western mood is a very sad fact, of course.

Speaking about Azerbaijani-Russian relations, Alexander noted that Azerbaijan is of key importance for Russia, for example, the North-South Corridor, trade with Iran and India, close economic ties, and so on.

"One can only hope that the trick of the chairman of the Yekaterinburg Duma will not go unanswered. Unfortunately, this can be called unacceptable behavior. I think that Russia needs to be put in order. Separatism should not have a place either in Azerbaijan or in Russia. I can only say "It's just a shame. I have no other words," the expert emphasised.

Tural Ismayilov, an analyst of Social Research Centre, an Azerbaijan-based think tank, also gave an opinion on the issue. Speaking about the behavior of the chairman of the Duma in Yekaterinburg, the political analyst expressed his dissatisfaction, said that it is a pity that the so-called separatist measures against the territorial integrity of Azerbaijan are being carried out in Russia today. However, the analyst added that Russia has never officially questioned the territorial integrity of Azerbaijan and at the same time does not support separatist measures against the country.

Further, the pundit noted that today various Anti-Azerbaijan calls regarding the territorial integrity of the country are heard from different cities of Russia. Several separatists living in Yekaterinburg express provocative views against the territorial integrity of Azerbaijan in many media outlets. At the same time, they promote some provocative programs as well.

In addition to his comments, Alexander Razuvaev explained the diplomatic disgrace that is interpreted as a direct disrespect for the territorial integrity of Azerbaijan. Besides, he called the participation of the official of the Russian Duma, Igor Volodin, who currently holds an official position in Russia unacceptable.

Regardless of the Russian diplomat trying to justify it, this is the most wrong step taken at the state level. As an official of the State Duma, Igor Volodin should have studied the event in advance and diplomatically understood its subtleties. Especially at the current sensitive moment, when the Azerbaijani-Russian relations are developing so much, not taking into account this factor is a big novelty from a political point of view," the expert noted.
The Holy See's representative office in Ukraine said that Pope Francis "has never called for imperialist ideas" amid his call for Russian youth to preserve the heritage of "great Russia". For its part, the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church noted that it was "painfully and anxiously" perceived such statements by the pontiff against the backdrop of the full-scale war of the aggressor country, the Russian Federation, against our country.

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The positions are set out in the statements of the Apostolic Nunciature in Ukraine and the head of the UGCC, His Beatitude Metropolitan Sviatoslav Shevchuk. The Pontifical Nunciature redirected everything to the allegedly incorrect "interpretation of the media", but the UGCC stressed that they were waiting for a balanced explanation.

Thus, the representative office said that Pope Francis did not call on Catholic youth in Russia to follow the example of Emperor Peter I and Empress Catherine II, who were known for their imperialist and expansionist ideas and actions. This is allegedly an interpretation, because the Pope "did not say that".

"Pope Francis has never called for imperialist ideas. On the contrary, he is a strong opponent and critic of any form of imperialism or colonialism, in all peoples and situations. The words of the Roman Pontiff of 25 August should be interpreted in the same light," the Holy See's Mission in Ukraine said in a statement.

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However, the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church reacted with "pain and concern" to Pope Francis' "great Russia". The head of the UGCC, Metropolitan Sviatoslav, expressed hope that these words of the Holy Father were spoken spontaneously, without any attempts at historical assessments, let alone support for Russia's imperialist ambitions.

He added: there is indeed a danger that what the pontiff said could be perceived as support for Russian nationalism and imperialism, which caused the war in Ukraine.

"The words about 'the great Russia of Peter I, Catherine II, that empire - great, enlightened, a country of great culture and great humanity' are the worst example of imperialism and extreme Russian nationalism," said the head of the UGCC.

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He stressed that the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church expects a balanced explanation of this situation from the Holy See, as the statements attributed to Pope Francis "contradict his teaching on peace" and condemnation of all forms of imperialism.

Metropolitan Sviatoslav also stressed that in a few days, the bishops of the UGCC, who will gather for the Synod in Rome, will be able to personally convey to the pontiff "the doubts and pain of the Ukrainian people."

As reported, during a teleconference with Russian youth on 25 August, Pope Francis expressed his admiration for "great Russia" and called on the citizens of this terrorist state to "never give up (their) heritage".

"You are the heirs of great Russia: the great Russia of saints, rulers, the great Russia of Peter the Great, Catherine the Great, that empire - great, enlightened, great culture and great humanity. Never give up this heritage," the pontiff said.

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In response, the spokesman for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine, Oleh Nikolenko, noted that it is precisely this "imperialist propaganda", "spiritual bonds" and the "need" to save "Great Mother Russia" that the Kremlin is using to justify the killing of thousands of Ukrainians and the destruction of hundreds of Ukrainian towns and villages.

As reported by OBOZREVATEL, it is noteworthy that shortly before that, the head of the Catholic Church, Pope Francis, called on believers to pray for Ukraine. He asked for a special prayer because "Ukraine has long suffered because of the war".

Only verified information is available on our Obozrevatel Telegram channel, Threads and Viber. Don't fall for fakes!
For more than a year and a half, Ukrainians have been fighting the Russian occupiers, defending their sovereignty and independence. Despite the enormous number of difficulties and hardships that the war has brought, the vast majority of our country's citizens are not ready to make any concessions to the aggressor.

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Ukrainians believe that the state will defeat the aggressor and return all the temporarily occupied territories. This is evidenced by the Ukrainian Society sociological monitoring conducted by Serhiy Dembitsky, Deputy Director of the Institute of Sociology of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine.

The results of the survey showed that the number of respondents who are focused on a prolonged war with the aggressor has been increasing recently. The author of the study notes that this readiness of Ukrainian citizens is quite comparable to the dominant ideas about the desired features of victory.

In December 2022, most Ukrainians were confident that the war would last six months to a year. However, the mood of citizens has now changed. In June 2023, Ukrainians are confident that the war with Russia will last for more than a year. At the same time, about 10% believe that the war could end in a few months.

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At the same time, more than 80% of respondents believe that Ukraine's victory will be the return of all the territories of the state within the 1991 borders. It is noteworthy that the other options, which involve various territorial compromises and concessions to the enemy, do not even get 5%.

Earlier, it was reported that the vast majority of Ukrainians are not ready to make concessions to the aggressor country Russia to end the war. Only 4.7% of citizens are ready to make territorial "compromises".

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As OBOZREVATEL wrote:

- In July 2023, a poll showed that 89% of Ukrainian citizens support Ukraine's accession to NATO.

- Meanwhile, a social survey conducted in 24 countries shows that approximately 82% of participants expressed distrust or complete lack of confidence in the correctness of Russian dictator Vladimir Putin's actions regarding world events.

Only verified information is available on our Obozrevatel Telegram channel, Threads and Viber. Don't fall for fakes!
Opposition gains could see the Brotherhood Alliance bandwagon to secure a better future negotiating position.

Members of ethnic rebel group Ta'ang National Liberation Army train at their camp in the forest in Myanmar's northern Shan state, March 8, 2023.

In Myanmars complex battle space, Shan state is a particularly fluid patchwork of peoples defense forces, ethnic resistance organizations, and criminal gangs, all with varying loyalty to the military junta or the opposition National Unity Government.

The Shan-based Brotherhood Alliance is made of three ethnic armies that are publicly supportive of the goal of the National Unity Government (NUG) of establishing a federal democracy. They provide tacit support and training for opposition Peoples Defense Force (PDF) militias, but they fight mostly in self-defense.

The Brotherhood Alliance includes the Arakan Army (AA), the Taang National Liberation Army (TNLA), and the Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army (MNDAA), also known as the Kokang army. Shan state shares borders with key regional players China and Thailand.

The Arakan Army, the largest of three, gets most of the attention in its fight for a homeland in Rakhine state in Myanmar's far west. When fighting briefly resumed in late-2022, it was seen as a front that could break the 30-month-old military juntas back.

But the TNLA, though a small organization, is an important bellwether of how the war could evolve.

Thereve been five major clashes between the military junta and the TNLA since December. RFA reporting has described almost daily encounters in the past two months.

A Taang National Liberation Army soldier sets fire to poppy plants during the destruction of an opium field in Mantong township, in Shan state, Myanmar, in 2014. Credit: Soe Zeya Tun/Reuters

The TNLA is the armed wing of the Palaung State Liberation Front, which represents the Taang, an ethnic minority group of half a million people found in Shan state, northern Thailand and China's Yunnan Province.

Early Taang militias picked up arms in 1963, but reached a ceasefire in 1991, and surrendered their arms in 2005. Out of the ashes emerged the TNLA and its political arm, supported by the Kachin Independence Army (KIA).

The militarys 2008 constitution established a small Palaung Special Administered Zone encompassing two townships in northern Shan State, though it was autonomous in name only. The TNLA was not a signatory to the 2015 Nationwide Ceasefire Agreement, but announced a unilateral ceasefire in 2018, though resumed fighting in 2019 when fighting broke out between the government and the Arakan Army in Rakhine state.

Three things make the TNLA distinct.

First, although it only has 7,000-10,000 men under arms, the TNLA is arguably the most cohesive ethnic resistance organization. They are well armed and militarily competent.

Second, they take a clear anti-narcotics position, otherwise unheard of in Shan state, which is the epicenter of regional synthetic drug production. The TNLA runs check points, seizes and publicly incinerates illicit narcotics, destroys opium fields. These actions anger the military, their border guard forces, and pro-junta ethnic armies  all of whom profit from the drug trade.

Third, the TNLA understands that autonomy is contingent on the establishment of a genuine federal system in multiethnic Myanmar, so they are staunch advocates for national political reform.

The Impact of the coup

Following the Feb. 1, 2021 coup detat, the TNLA suspended their ceasefire and voiced support for the NUG, but they did not formally ally with the main opposition. In March 2021, the Brotherhood Alliance threatened the junta that they would join the NUG if the military did not cease their attacks on the three members.

The TNLA has been giving tacit support to the NUG in four ways.

First, it expelled the pro-junta Shan State Restoration Council from northern Shan State by late 2021.

Second, it banned the sale of products from military-owned companies  including Myanmar Beer, Red Ruby and Premium Gold Cigarettes  within its territory.

Third, the TNLA welcomed Burmese opposition figures into its territory, and once the NUG announced its Peoples War in September 2022, began training and equipping local PDF militias.

Fourth, in January, TNLA Chairman Lieutenant-General Tar Aik Bong rejected the militarys attempt to hold elections as a political off-ramp.

"Our revolutionary forces have an opportunity to prevent this election. Only by using this opportunity can we free future generations from the enslavement of the military, he declared.

Clashes with military government forces erupted in January 2022, but died down.

In December 2022, however, the military increased operations in Shan state to control major roads, leading to clashes with the TNLA and a sustained aerial campaign. There were some 30 air strikes in a single week after TNLA forces surrounded several military units. The military, unconvincingly, chalked this up to a misunderstanding.

Ta'ang National Liberation Army soldiers take target practice at their base camp in the forest in Myanmar's northern Shan state, March 8, 2023. Credit: AFP

Violence has escalated in 2023.

After several snubbed invitations from the junta, on June 1, the Brotherhood Alliance met with a junta delegation, at the prodding of China.

After hedging its bets, China has doubled down on its support of the junta, and has been actively pressing the Northern Alliance to stop their active support for the NUG and cease all offensive operations.

The talks quickly broke down, and the Brotherhood Alliance rejected the juntas calls to support proposed elections.

Fighting between the military and the TNLA intensified in July as the junta tried to retake the road outside of Muse, an important border crossing with China, where the TNLA has been inspecting vehicles for illicit narcotics.

Worth watching

While the junta controls the China border city Muse, it has tenuous control of the surrounding countryside. The military regime has artillery positions in Muse, which they use to target TNLA positions, though more often killing innocent civilians.

Clashes continued through August. Notably in one ambush of an army supply convoy NUG PDFs were fighting alongside the TNLA. The military has retaliated with air attacks.

The online newspaper Irrawaddy quoted a TNLA officer as saying that it had more than a dozen clashes with the junta in August, with tensions remaining high in two northern Shan townships.

"There were 13 clashes in August and all because of massive advances by the military into our territory, Lieutenant Colonel Tar Aik Kyaw from the TNLA told the independent daily.

So why does the TNLA matter?

First, should the violence escalate, the TNLA could publicly embrace the NUG and begin coordinated offensive operations. At this point, the military junta fights the TNLA at its choosing, but that could change.

Ta'ang National Liberation Army troops ride on a truck near Namhsan township in Myanmar's northern Shan state, March 9, 2023. Credit: AFP

If the NUG continues to make gains this year, the Brotherhood Alliance could bandwagon in order to secure a better negotiating position for itself over the establishment of a federal system.

Second, the junta has been steadily losing control over its border regions. This was most evident with the recent defection of its Border Guard Forces in Kayah state. In addition to the TNLA, the KIA has stepped up their attempts to control the Lashio-Muse Highway. The regimes forces in the border are isolated and dependent on overland trucks or helicopters for resupply.

The regime is increasingly isolated by international sanctions and even more dependent on non-dollar-denominated trade with China.

Third, while the Northern Alliance may have shrugged off Chinese pressure to reach a ceasefire with the junta, the TNLA is also an important bellwether for how the EROs think about their relationship with the governments in Beijing and the Yunnan capital Kunming.

In January, the Brotherhood Alliance issued a statement in which they pledged to protect Chinese investments - including their trade zone in Muse. This was reiterated in July.

Likewise, the TNLA pledged to cooperate in the combatting of human trafficking and other illegal activities, as China takes the threat of transnational criminal enterprises operating out of Myanmar more seriously.

Zachary Abuza is a professor at the National War College in Washington and an adjunct at Georgetown University. The views expressed here are his own and do not reflect the position of the U.S. Department of Defense, the National War College, Georgetown University or Radio Free Asia.
Cambodia and Myanmar are the epicenters of a new human trafficking scourge in Southeast Asia, report says.

Barbed wire rings a shuttered Great Wall Park compound in Sihanoukville, Cambodia, where authorities said they found evidence of human trafficking, kidnapping and torture, Sept. 21, 2022.

Hundreds of thousands of people across Southeast Asia have been enslaved and forced to carry out online scams worth billions of dollars, a new U.N. report says, with Cambodia and wartorn Myanmar the worst affected and Thailand serving as a major trafficking hub.

The report from the U.N. human rights office notes the latest scourge of human trafficking to hit Southeast Asia is markedly different from the type that historically impacted the region: outflows of uneducated and poor citizens for forced sex work and manual labor elsewhere.

Instead, the new multi-billion dollar trafficking industry that emerged during the COVID-19 pandemic has been marked by inflows of foreign citizens  some even with higher educations  for scamming.

The report says many of the victims are well-educated, sometimes coming from professional jobs or with graduate or even postgraduate degrees, computer-literate and multi-lingual and are being recruited by traffickers under the pretence of offering them real jobs.

Many come from other Southeast Asian countries, but there are also many victims from China, South Asia, East Africa and the Middle East, it says. They often arrive in one country, such as Thailand, expecting to work there, but are then surreptitiously ferried into a second country, such as Myanmar or Cambodia, where their passports are taken.

There, the U.N. says, they are kept under the watch of armed guards and forced to work in industrial-scale online scam operations, using elaborate scripts  and posing as romantic flames or investors  to trick people in wealthy countries to send money back to their captors via trusted cryptocurrency platforms like Binance or Coinbase.

The scams are often sophisticated; fake websites are built to showcase fraudulent data in order to convince the target that there are significant profits to be made, the report says. People who are targeted can also receive small amounts of money to convince them of the legitimacy of the platform. The scam is usually a long process in which targets are approached for weeks or months to build trusted relationships.

A victim of a Chinese scamming gang shows a scar on his leg after being tortured, Phnom Penh, Cambodia, Sept. 27, 2022. (AFP)

The carefully prepared scripts are used to target people on popular services including Facebook, Grindr, Hinge, Instagram, Line, LinkedIn, Meet Me, Muslima, OkCupid, TikTok, Tinder, WeChat and WhatsApp, among other online-dating and social-networking platforms.

Victims who dont comply, or dont meet revenue targets, are tortured, it says. Many are told they are working off a debt incurred to transport them to the country in the first place. The debt increases when they are sold to new captors, and their families often extorted to free them.

Cambodia and Myanmar

Online-scam slave compounds are believed to have generated at least $7.8 billion in revenue globally in 2021, the U.N. says, with billions of that arriving in Southeast Asia, thanks to the regions many casinos and special economic zones, where law enforcement can be lax.

Exact figures about such trafficking are difficult to estimate because of its clandestine nature and gaps in the official response, it notes. But credible estimates indicate at least 120,000 people have been held in scam compounds in Myanmar and 100,000 more in Cambodia, where the problem is centered on the coastal casino town of Sihanoukville.

A combination of weak government institutions, rampant corruption and visa-free travel across the region have all conspired to make the region vulnerable to scam slavery, the U.N. report says, with traffickers also becoming adept at seamlessly shifting operations across borders.

States may not have the necessary capacity in, or experience with, the types of investigative techniques required for the investigation and prosecution of allegations of human rights abuses in the context of organised crime and cross-border operations, the report says.

At best, many officials may not be trained to recognize when foreigners are being trafficked into the country, and many victims furthermore have rights to visa-free entry into the countries, either under each countrys own immigration laws or under the ASEAN visa-free travel program, which waives visa requirements for citizens of the bloc.

But the report also notes the role that corruption plays, and the widespread pattern of officials either turning a blind-eye to  or even actively protecting  the scam compounds for a cut of proceeds.

That has made Myanmar, torn apart by conflict since the February 2021 military coup detat, particularly impacted by such trafficking.

The military coup, ongoing violence and armed conflicts in Myanmar, and the resultant breakdown in the rule of law, have provided fertile ground for an exponential rise in criminal activity, the report says.

Following the coup, transnational organised criminal actors were able to widen their existing activities within the country by working with factions within the armed forces and various militia groups, it says.

Many of the scam centres in Myanmar are located in weakly regulated  and often porous  border areas which are characterised by a lack of formal law enforcement structures, oversight and accountability.

Fixing the problem

The emergence of scam compounds since the COVID-19 pandemic has become an increasing focus of world governments, given the transnational nature of its impacts, with victims on both ends of the scam coming from an increasing array of countries worldwide.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken in June awarded Cambodian journalist Mech Dara with a Hero Award for his groundbreaking work uncovering scam compounds in Sihanoukville and Phnom Penh.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken presents Cambodian journalist Mech Dara with the TIP Report Hero award in Washington, D.C., June 15, 2023. (Sarah Silbiger/Reuters)

But the problem keeps popping up in new places. This week, the mother of a teenage Laotian girl trapped in a scam compound in Myanmar told Radio Free Asia that her daughter said she would be beaten with a metal bar 50 times if found using a cellphone.

To help end the problem, the U.N. report recommends that Southeast Asian governments focus on training immigration officials to better recognize trafficking of foreigners into their countries, and continuing to combat official corruption that has protected many scam compounds.

But it also says those who come forward about their time trapped in the scam compounds should not be punished for carrying out scams, or for being in the country illegally and for working without a labor permit.

A human rights-based approach to trafficking in persons works to avoid re-victimisation and thus recognises that punishing a victim of trafficking for unlawful acts committed as a consequence of their being trafficked is unjust and hinders the possibility of their recovery, it says.
Oleh Barna and the soldiers of his assault group, who died during hostilities near the village of Pavlivka, Donetsk region, on 17 April 2023, were posthumously awarded the Orders of Ukraine.

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This was announced by Petro Poroshenko on his Telegram channel.

"Our sworn brother Oleh Barna was awarded the Order 'For Courage' of the III degree. His commander Valeriy Dorokhov, who was killed during the assault in Donetsk region, also received a well-deserved award. The soldiers of the 68th Brigade, who were in the assault group with them, were also awarded," Poroshenko wrote.

"Our team demanded it. It was a matter of honour for me. We were heard. Oleh went to the front as a volunteer and died as a hero. He was not stopped by the bullet he received in Mariinsky Park in 2014. That was the first time he went to the front. Without any hesitation, he returned to service in 2022, despite his disability," Poroshenko reminded.

"Many people did not like your stubbornness. And the truthfulness still cuts some people's eyes. But we will not forget your feat, as well as your brothers-in-arms who are still waiting for their awards. Thank you for your service, my friend. I will always remember your stories. War takes the best of us... " the fifth president wrote.
A photography professor from the Massachusetts Institute of Art and Design has been refused entry to Hong Kong for the second time, further evidence that an ongoing crackdown on dissent under a draconian national security law could affect which foreign nationals are allowed to travel to the city.

Matthew Connors, who was denied entry in 2020, immediately after the 2019 protest movement, but who is still allowed to visit North Korea, told RFA Cantonese in a recent interview that he was given a brief, bureaucratic explanation that he "didn't meet the criteria" for entry, while the Immigration Department has declined to comment on the decision:

RFA: When did you try to enter Hong Kong?

Connors: On Aug. 16, I'd originally planned to come to Hong Kong as a tourist, and I especially hoped to visit art exhibitions, including the newly opened M+ museum. At the same time, it was also primarily to test the waters, because the last time I came to Hong Kong, at the beginning of 2020, I was refused entry by the Hong Kong Immigration Department, which made me always confused [about] whether I could visit Hong Kong again. And I couldn't see any reason why I would be refused entry, and I couldn't really understand what possible danger I could present to the Hong Kong government. I happened to be traveling in Asia for several weeks, and I was in Thailand.

Since the last time I was refused entry back in early 2020, I'd had a lot of uncertainty about whether or not I'd be allowed to return to Hong Kong. And that had been bothering me. So I was hopeful I'd be able to visit and then when I didn't really see any reason why I shouldn't be refused, again, because the protests are no longer going on. And I couldn't really understand what, you know, one possible danger I could present to the Hong Kong government. So I figured I would give it a try.

RFA: What happened when you arrived?

Connors: I was taken aside, again, by immigration, and I was told that I did not meet the qualifications for entry into Hong Kong at this time, which was a very bureaucratic answer. And it was the same reason that I was given the last time I was refused entry back in 2020. My trip was supposed to be an overnight trip, [and] I didn't really tell anyone I knew in Hong Kong that I would be coming. Because I didn't really know what risks that might have posed for anyone who would be seen associated with me.

So when I was interviewed in the airport by immigration officers, I identified myself both as an artist and a professor that was visiting for the purpose of tourism. But despite this, in a very short interview, I was just given the generic reason that I do not meet the qualifications for entry at this time. So I knew from my past experiences that trying to get more nuanced or detailed answers from any of the immigration officers would really be futile.

I actually had this feeling that no one that I actually encountered in the immigration office actually had the authority to make the decision about whether I could enter Hong Kong at the time or not. And so I really believe that I'm on a list of people whose access to Hong Kong is restricted, perhaps permanently, I'm not sure.

RFA: What makes you think that?

Connors: Part of the reason I think this is just the way they proceeded with the interview process, and it more or less mirrored exactly what happened to me last time. And so when I reached the immigration kiosk and presented my passport, they looked me up in the system. And then they called over immigration officer over to the window and he escorted me back to the immigration officers room and I sat in the waiting area and this was a designated area where I think they bring a lot of travelers that are flagged for further questioning, and I waited there with other travelers but ultimately, they never questioned me in this area, and they escorted me to a separate area, like a secondary interview area. I believe this is the place where they process people who they've already decided to refuse entry into Hong Kong. [It was] exactly where I went last time before I was refused entry.

A screenshot from photographer Matthew Connors personal website. Credit: matthewconnors.com





RFA: Do you think there's anything you can do about your situation?

Connors: I don't know. I want to seek advice about that. You know, the last time I was refused entry, I started discussing it with an immigration lawyer, but that whole process really got derailed by the COVID lockdowns. I don't know, to be honest. And I think that uncertainty is by design, because, you know, both with this refusal, and the sort of sweeping powers that the National Security Law gives the Hong Kong government they're sort of instrumentalizing uncertainty in order to make people feel like their freedoms are being restricted.

RFA: Did you fear this might happen when you went to Hong Kong?

Connors: You know, I did. And I think some people that I consulted before left thought there was there was a higher risk, both because of the National Security Law had been passed, and because I had been denied before, but I think I had my instinct that I essentially, would be okay, that I think the worst case scenario was that I would be turned around again. I don't have a lot of data or information to back that up. But I think I was just traveling under that assumption.

This time, they did a much more rigorous search and my belongings, and then, when they escorted me through the airport, they actually took me through a separate security area and put me on a bus to the flight back to Bangkok. [During] this whole process, none of the immigration officers were really giving me any information about what they were doing with me. And so when they put me on the bus, I felt quite nervous that I was being transported to a longer term detention area. But I think in the end, they were just bringing me to the plane.

RFA: Do you think it's because a lot of your work recorded what happened in 2019, and interviewed protesters?

Connors: I think it's absolutely related. But, you know, I can only speculate why I would be on that list, because there are many people, local and international journalists and artists who were documenting, recording and interacting with those events. And, as far as I know, many of them have been able to travel freely back and forth. So it's a little bit of a mystery to me, why I would be singled out, to be honest.

My relationship with Hong Kong doesn't run as deep as many of your, as many of your readers or listeners, but it's a place I developed an affection for over the last 20 years and I have been considering partially relocating there and living in between New York and Hong Kong for the next few years. It was an idea I've been talking about with people that are close to me. And now I just don't think it's possible for me to do that, and I just don't know if it's possible for me to ever return to Hong Kong, to be honest.

RFA: Do you think more and more foreigners will be denied entry and removed from Hong Kong in future?

Connors: That's my assumption. You know, I think a lot of people are looking at the National Security Law, and the way it's being enforced. And the writing seems to be on the wall in a lot of ways -- there's an increasing instability there. And when things like this are happening, I think it's a real sign of fragility on part of the Hong Kong government, a kind of insecurity on their part. I've been in and out of North Korea several times, doing more or less similar things, taking pictures, and then later publishing, and exhibiting them, but I've had no problem returning to North Korea [despite the fact that] the North Korean regime is notoriously insecure about how they're depicted abroad. And I think it's quite interesting that the Hong Kong government is trending in that direction. It does feel like Hong Kong has really become a kind of frontier of the new Cold War. So I think you can expect to see a lot of people who would normally have been interested in doing business or living in Hong Kong, looking to other major Asian capitals instead.

RFA: Does it feel like another Xinjiang, do you think?

Connors: I don't know what all this augers for the fate of Hong Kong. But I do think that the surveillance capabilities of the [Chinese Communist Party], and the Hong Kong government [are] just going to get increasingly sophisticated. And that's going to continue the trend of a kind of hyper-surveillance state where people are going to feel less and less able to navigate Hong Kong with any sense of freedom for themselves. I don't know if that's going to lead to the kinds of incarcerations that you've seen in Xinjiang, but there could be a real dampening effect on the freedoms that a lot of people who live in, grew up in, or who love Hong Kong are accustomed [to]. And I think you can already see that with the National Security Law. I mean, it feels really quite dystopian, the some of the things that I've been reading, [for example], people getting arrested for having flags in their backpacks.

RFA: How do you feel about these experiences from 2019 to now?

Connors: The first time I got banned, it was in a state of shock, you know, and it was ultimately a much more arduous process, because it was something that I don't think I was mentally or physically prepared for. When that happened, I was traveling from New York City, and I was detained in the airport for about eight hours, and then sent all the way back to New York City. And so, you know, it was quite a long ordeal. And, you know, that was extremely difficult because of everything that was going on. And I was quite enthusiastic about being in Hong Kong and continuing to experience and draw inspiration from all the protests that were happening. And I think this time when it happened, I more or less expected that that was a distinct possibility, so in a way, I think I was more mentally, emotionally, and physically prepared. It's really sad.

The more difficult thing this time around was not quite understanding the rationale. I can understand back then, as odious as I think it was, that there could be a rationale for the Hong Kong government not wanting people, including myself, to be present, to be bearing witness to the ways in which the police were treating the citizens who were protesting. But now, this time around, there's no protest activity happening. And I just really couldn't fathom why they would think I, you know, an art teacher, an artist would pose any threat to the Hong Kong government. In a way, it's a little bit more difficult, because, to me, it suggests that that ban could be permanent.

Edited by Luisetta Mudie.
Shipping data show that 40 vessels targeted by US have been operating in East Asian waters since January.

Ships subject to U.S. Treasury sanctions related to North Korea are seen in East Asia [left] on the ship tracking site MarineTraffic.com. The final signal showing the positions of the ships is at right. Red dots denote oil tankers and green dots are cargo ships.

More than three dozen ships sanctioned by the United States for facilitating allegedly illicit trade with North Korea have been active this year, including a dozen North Korean-flagged oil tankers, according to satellite images and ship tracking data analyzed by Radio Free Asia.

The information suggests Kim Jong Uns isolated regime is defying restrictions designed to limit its ability to develop weapons of mass destruction, including through the importation of fuel above quotas set by the United Nations, experts on the region said.

The U.S. Treasury Department has identified a total of 105 vessels  including freighters and tankers  that it says are in violation of sanctions directed at North Korea. Data from Marine Traffic, a global shipping intelligence company, shows 40 have been operating since the start of 2023 in a stretch of water extending from Russias Sakhalin Island south to the Gulf of Thailand, the analysis by RFA Korean shows.

Meanwhile, 19 of 59 ships that face U.N. sanctions have been active from the start of the year to August, the analysis shows. Some vessels face both U.S. and U.N. restrictions.

Continued defiance

Though its difficult to know exactly what the ships are carrying, Bruce Songhak Chung, a researcher at the Korean Institute for Security and Strategy, said the images suggest that an illicit trade of crude oil and petroleum products continues.

In December 2017, the United Nations Security Council adopted a resolution capping the amount of crude oil and refined products North Korea can import annually at 4 million barrels and 500,000 barrels respectively.

In an example of how transshipment helps North Korea evade sanctions, the Panama-flagged ship Xiangyuanbao and the North Korean vessel Myongryu 1 connect hoses to transfer petroleum products in the East China Sea, June 2, 2018. Credit: U.S. Department of State International Security and Nonproliferation Agency.

But the regime has long been thought to exceed those totals through smuggling. In 2019, a report to the council said that North Korea "continues to defy Security Council resolutions through a massive increase in illegal ship-to-ship transfers of petroleum products and coal.

According to the data reviewed by RFA, 26 of the 40 sanctioned ships are oil tankers, with 12 owned by North Korean entities. The tally of vessels sanctioned by the United States likely undercounts the amount of shipping to and from North Korea, given efforts by that country and its partners to circumvent tracking mechanisms.

The data shows the continued difficulty of enforcing maritime controls, said James Byrne, the director at the Royal United Services Institute, an U.K.-based organization that traces and analyzes illegal shipping activities.

Due to the fact that smuggling and transshipment occur in international waters or North Korea's exclusive economic zone, control is extremely challenging, Byrne said. Moreover, there are networks of individuals condoning smuggling in China, and corrupt officials promoting smuggling, making it difficult for the international community to effectively regulate it.

Port calls

The North Korean-flagged ship Ryong Yon, targeted by U.S. sanctions in November 2017 for contributing to the regimes nuclear missile program, docked at Dalian Port in China, directly west of Pyongyang, on Aug. 22.

In July, the Hoe Ryong, a cargo ship owned by North Korea's Ocean Maritime Management Company and sanctioned by both the U.S. and the U.N., anchored near Chenjiagang Port in China. In 2022, the U.N. panel of experts said the ship unloaded coal in waters off Chinas Ningbo-Zhoushan port in violation of international sanctions.

Ship tracking data shows the U.N.-sanctioned North Korean vessel Hoe Ryong leaving Wonsan Port on July 7, 2023, anchoring near Chinas Chenjiagang port on July 15, and departing on July 31. It arrived at Nampo Port in North Korea on Aug. 3. Credit: Marine Traffic.

The Chinese Embassy in Washington said it wasnt aware of the activity and declined to comment.

China once enforced U.N. sanctions, but in recent years, undisguised trade with North Korea has been on the rise, said Andrew Boling, the portfolio manager for state-sponsored threats program at C4ADS, a Washington, D.C.-based global security nonprofit that tracks illicit networks.

"When goods are transferred at sea, this may allow Chinese officials some level of plausible deniability. But North Korean ships also routinely dock at Chinese ports, particularly in the northern part of the country, and likely offload coal and other freight prohibited for export by the United Nations," Boling said.

Individuals or entities designated by the U.S. government for sanctions have all their U.S.- based assets frozen and are prohibited from engaging in transactions involving U.S. individuals.

In addition to the shipping data, satellite images show the western North Korean port Nampo appears to have expanded its liquid fuel storage capacities.

Four new facilities have been constructed at the port southwest of Pyongyang, the images show.

Songhak Chung of the Korean Institute for Security and Strategy said the images, recorded by Planet Labs, a satellite data company, suggest the port now has 22 storage facilities, up from 18.

Translated by Claire Shinyoung Oh Lee for RFA Korean and edited by Jim Snyder and Abby Seiff.
The army claims to have won back territory from a powerful ethnic army.

Junta heavy artillery attacks on two townships in central Myanmars Bago region have injured eight people, including a child, according to the Karen National Union.

The political group which represents ethnic Karen issued a statement Monday, saying a four-year-old child and three women were hurt by shells in Kyauktaga township the previous day.

Troops stationed near the township fired four shells at Ka Nyin Kyoe village, injuring four-year-old May Myat Noe Wai, 66-year-old San Htay, 52-year-old San San and 45-year-old Pyone Pyone Yi, according to locals who didnt want to be named for safety reasons.

They said San Htay was critically injured and five houses were destroyed in the attack.

In another attack on Saturday, a 40-year-old woman and three 25-year-old men were injured when troops stationed in Nyaunglebin township fired three shells at Kyoe Gyi village, according to the KNU. It said seven houses were destroyed by heavy artillery.

The majority of ethnic Karen who live in the region are Christian. An artillery attack on Aug. 20 destroyed one of their churches in Kyaukkyi township, the KNU said.

The junta has not issued a statement on the shelling. However, its regional spokesperson, Tin Oo, told Radio Free Asia that troops were trying to bring stability to the region because the KNU affiliated Karen National Liberation Army and local Peoples Defense Forces had entered some townships in eastern Bago. He said the townships were now under the control of junta troops.

Along with heavy artillery attacks, the junta has been carrying out airstrikes in the region.

On Aug. 18, planes attacked Kyaukkyi township four times, killing one civilian and injuring four others, the KNU said.

Nearly 100,000 residents of eastern Bago have been forced to flee their homes since the February 2021 coup, according to the United Nations.

Translated by RFA Burmese. Edited by Mike Firn and Taejun Kang.
Papua New Guineas opposition leader has sought a Supreme Court review of the legality of a recently signed defense cooperation agreement with the United States, highlighting continuing unhappiness about the pact in the Pacific island country.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Papua New Guineas Defense Minister Win Bakri Daki signed the agreement in May, which once ratified would give the U.S. military unrestricted access to six air and sea ports in the island nation. The U.S. would also have criminal jurisdiction over American military personnel in Papua New Guinea.

The agreement has sparked unprecedented protests and opposition all over the country, opposition leader Joseph Lelang told BenarNews on Monday. The issue of sovereignty and constitutionality of that agreement is now being tested.

The agreement has been criticized by some analysts and groups such as the PNG Trade Union Congress as overly accommodative to Washington and entangling Papua New Guinea in the intensifying rivalry between China and the United States. Its signing sparked student protests at campuses in Papua New Guinea.

The U.S. has sought to bolster its already significant military presence in the Pacific and East Asia in response to Chinas claims to the South China Sea that impinge on several Southeast Asian countries waters, its belligerence towards Taiwan  which Beijing considers a rebel province  and other activity.

Aside from Papua New Guinea, the U.S. has strengthened its defense ties with the Philippines, which is embroiled in territorial disputes with Beijing in the South China Sea.

The U.S. and the United Kingdom are also working to equip Australia with nuclear-powered submarines by next decade, under the AUKUS pact  another source of concern for some Pacific island nations that fear being dragged into superpower competition.

Chinas military spending has grown rapidly for the past two decades but remains much smaller than that of the U.S. and its allies.

Lelang said the defense agreement case was submitted to Papua New Guineas top court on Thursday and a date for hearings to begin has yet to be decided.

A statement from Lelang said the government has the right to enter into agreements with other countries, but must do so without breaching the constitution or any other laws.

As leader of the opposition it is my duty to ensure that all lawful checks and balances are strengthened or are available and that at all times, PNGs sovereignty is not unnecessarily compromised, he said.

Lelang said the oppositions lawyers are also preparing a challenge to the shiprider agreement signed with the U.S. in May.

The agreement provides the basis for personnel from the Pacific island country to work on U.S. coast guard and naval vessels, and vice versa, in targeting economic and security challenges such as illegal fishing.

The Pacific island countrys courts are independent and are empowered to shape society rather than be judicial bystanders, according to constitutional law expert Bal Kama. The Supreme Court, which is the final judicial word on interpretations of the constitution, in 2016 ordered the closure of an Australian detention center on Papua New Guinea soil that was used to hold refugees and asylum seekers.

Papua New Guinea is among the poorest nations in the Pacific and its central government struggles to exert control over vast tracts of remote mountainous territory that frequently erupt in fatal tribal violence.

Prime Minister James Marape has previously said the defense agreement would help Papua New Guinea develop a robust economy, without giving details of how that would be achieved.

Mihai Sora, a Pacific analyst at the Lowy Institute, a Canberra-based think tank, said Marape probably has enough influence to ensure political support for the defense agreement.

However, the window of stability for his administration is closing, Sora said. A grace period that prevents no confidence motions in the first 18 months of a government will end in February.

I think fundamentally the benefits of the defense cooperation agreement for Papua New Guinea are yet to be realized or even satisfactorily explained, Sora said.

This is the U.S.s problem more than Marapes problem. It should be their main priority in PNG right now, he said.

The U.S.-PNG agreement and the AUKUS security pact are part of the new regional security architecture of the so-called Indo-Pacific, a U.S. strategic concept that combines the Indian and Pacific oceans and which analysts say aims to contain China.

Samoas Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mataafa said in March that it was disconcerting to be lumped into a new super region without any consultation.

BenarNews is an RFA-affiliated online news organization.
If his bid passes, it could be pop the champagne time for the pro-Taiwan Democratic Progressive Party.

Foxconn founder Terry Gou announces his bid for the Taiwan presidency during a press event in Taipei, Taiwan August 28, 2023.

Taiwans mercurial richest man and founder of Foxconn, Terry Gou, has ended months of speculation  largely fueled by his own cryptic statements at rallies  by confirming he is joining the presidential elections.

Leaving no uncertainty as to his intentions, the billionaire would-be politician said Monday, I, Terry Gou, solemnly announce to you all today that I have decided to enter the 2024 presidential election as a candidate.

But the fact that Gou has at last said the words, does not automatically make it so.

Gou now faces the challenge of summoning up 290,000 petition signatures to officially run as an independent candidate. The count is out as to whether theres still time to do that.

A reality reminder, said Paul Huang, research fellow at the Taiwan Public Opinion Foundation: Just because Taiwan's #TerryGou announced hes running does NOT automatically make him a candidate in [the] presidential election  Gou needs to pass [the] petition stage by Nov. 1 which IMO he has a high chance of failing.

But some observers of Taiwan politics maintain that Gous entry into a race in which the opposition vote is already fractured between Hou Yu-ih of the Kuomintang (KMT) and Ko Wen-je of the Taiwan Peoples Party (TPP) can only serve to further bolster the chances of Lai Ching-te of the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) winning the presidency.

Taiwan's Vice President Lai Ching-te assumes the chairmanship of the ruling Democratic Progressive Party in Taipei, Taiwan, January 18, 2023. Credit: Reuters/Ann Wang

Lai is consistently running ahead of his rivals in the polls, and if Gou can actually run  and neither Hou nor Ko is able to cut a deal and make him a running partner  he is likely to give Lai an even surer chance of becoming president in January next year.

William Lai [Ching-te] likely just won Taiwans presidential election, scheduled for January. Hard to envision three opposition nominees, to include Terry Gou entering the race today, winning enough votes individually when they are all competing for the same votes, Derek J. Grossman, RAND Corporation analyst, wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter.

Michael Turton, a veteran Taiwan analyst and columnist, argued that Gou could be such an asset to the DPP  or green  vote that it was likely that Gous required petition numbers would come his way from an unlikely direction.

Lots of smart pan-Greens are going to sign this petition, because they want Gou in the race, just as in the 2020 KMT phone poll they supported Han [Kuo-yu of the Kuomintang] because he so obviously could not win.

A vote for peace?

As the so-called blue camp, or pan-blue coalition is broadly positioning itself, Gou is putting himself forward as a vote for some kind of reconciliation with Beijing and against an inevitable Ukraine-like conflict that another term of the DPP might bring.

Taiwans blue voters very broadly tend to support the KMT and its allies, which advocate for closer ties with mainland China, based on the principle of one China with different interpretations, although close watchers of Taiwan politics caution that elections are not fought over China relations alone.

Multiple factors, including Russia's invasion of Ukraine, China's increasingly bold aerial and naval incursions into Taiwan's air defense identification zone, and China's slowing economy, have led some Taiwanese to fear that Chinese leader Xi Jinping could play the ultimate nationalist card in his deck  an invasion.

Protesters gather while Taiwan's Vice President Lai Ching-te attends an event in New York, U.S., August 13, 2023. Credit: Reuters/Jeenah Moon

Beijing is also manifestly opposed to the election of the DPPs Lai, who in the past has called himself a practical worker for Taiwan independence, although every sign is he will represent a continuation of President Tsai Ing-wens non-provocative policies.

Taiwans political and economic predicament has been declining for the past seven years of DPP rule, argues Gou. The pro-Taiwan party has to be removed from power if Taiwan is to be saved from what Gou calls the abyss.

In the face of the precarious military situation across the Taiwan Strait and the tense relationship between China and the U.S., Taiwan absolutely cannot become another Ukraine, he said on Monday while declaring his determination to be president.

Gou has sent conflicting messages on his assets in China, at one point saying, Personally, I dont own a pennys worth of assets in mainland China, including land and real estate.

On Monday, on the other hand, he said he would willingly sacrifice his assets in China to save Taiwan from war.

If the Chinese Communist Party says, If you don't listen to us, we will confiscate Foxconns assets, I will say Yes, Please. Do it! said Gou on Monday.

If sacrificing my personal wealth means they wont attack Taiwan, Im willing to go back to being a mold worker, as long as they don't attack Taiwan. I cannot obey their commands.

Gous avowed willingness to sacrifice everything for Taiwan drew some wry comments on social media.

Foxconn founder Terry Gou  said that he would accept the Chinese governments seizure of his firms assets in China in exchange for not invading Taiwan, Swedish author and Taiwan commentator Jojje Olsen posted on X, adding:

Yeah, Beijing would probably stop there.

The polls

Despite only declaring his candidacy on Monday, Gou has been tirelessly touring Taiwan to drum up support for an unannounced campaign, but he still trails his rivals by a large margin.

Various recent polls saw his support at between approximately 9% and 14%, while Hou of the KMT was at 14% to 22%, Ko at 27% to 28% and the DPPs Lai at 37% to 43%.

Just hours after Gou announced he was joining the presidential fray, the KMT said in a statement it was deeply regrettable that he had walked away from an earlier promise to help its presidential candidate Hou Yu-ih in the 2024 presidential elections.

The statement signaled a deep unease in the blue camp that Gou could wreck all chances of defeating the DPP and preventing the party from winning an unprecedented third term, in a move Beijing would almost certainly deplore as a victory to the islands separatists.

KMT Chair Eric Chu has stated that if Taiwans opposition forces remain divided, as they currently are  and more so with Gou as a candidate  Lai will win the presidential election lying down.

If Gou runs, the rest of us are done for, Ko said in an interview with Chung Tien Television earlier this month, Bloomberg reported.

Lai Ching-te would 100% win. We wouldnt even need to hold the election. Lai could pop the champagne right away.

Edited by Mike Firn and Taejun Kang.
He had returned home several times in past years, but this time was different.

A Uyghur design director who has worked for a Chinese locomotive manufacturer in Turkey for more than a decade was arrested by Chinese authorities in March when he returned to Xinjiang for a family visit, company employees said.

Qahar Eli, 39, left Turkey on March 27 with his family on a month-long trip to visit his parents in the town of Turpan with an assurance from his company that he would be allowed to return to Turkey, said his lawyer Wadat, who gave only one name.

Although he had a Chinese passport and had visited his hometown several times before with the companys guarantee, this time he was arrested.

When Radio Free Asia contacted his employer, CRRC Zhuzhou Locomotive Co., based in Chinas Hunan province, a staffer confirmed Elis captivity, categorizing his case as criminal.

He has been arrested, so theres nothing I can assist you with, she said. You should ask the police authorities. Given that his situation is now a criminal case, you would need to reach out to the police department.

Another employee from the companys human resources department said they had been unable to contact Eli for several months due to his detention.

Qadirs current situation is likely as you mentioned, he said. You heard correctly, he has been arrested. I'm unsure about the exact timing of his arrest.

Wadat told RFA that he recently received information from unofficial sources that authorities were holding Eli captive, though his three children had yet to settle into school in Xinjiang, and his wife was living with her parents in Turpan.

Learned Turkish

Elis disappearance comes amid growing calls by Uyghur rights groups for China to be held accountable for its repression of the mostly Muslim minority group in Xinjiang.

Eli, who hails from Lukchun village in Turpans Pichan county, arrived in Turkey around 2010 after completing studies at the Beijing Institute of Education, said a person familiar with the situation who requested anonymity for safety reasons.

He learned Turkish and later worked as a translator for the locomotive companys local subsidiary.

Zhuzhou Locomotive specializes in manufacturing high-speed electric locomotives and does business in more than 50 countries, making it a pivotal participant in Chinas Belt and Road Initiative.

Eli was later promoted to design director in part because of his exceptional social skills, the person said. In this role, he oversaw the companys projects in Istanbul, Ankara and Izmir.

Eli visited China a few times after 2017, when authorities started detaining thousands of Uyghurs in re-education camps under the guise of preventing terrorism and religious extremism, said a friend who requested anonymity for safety reasons.

In the past, the company had been able to resolve any difficulties Eli encountered during trips back to Xinjiang, he friend said.

RFA contacted officials in Lukchun village and Pichan county for information about Eli, but they declined to comment.

Cautious and distant

Wadat told RFA that Eli traveled with his wife and their children to Turpan and informed close friends that he would return to Turkey by April 26.

When Eli failed to return, Wadat began investigating his whereabouts.

Qahar maintains relationships with influential figures in Turkey, including individuals at the ministerial level, Elis friend told RFA. However, even they are scared about China's response and have refrained from speaking up.

Despite living in Turkey for a decade, Eli was cautious and remained distant from the Uyghur community there, interacting only with a few classmates living abroad, his friend said.

He is meticulous in his actions, avoiding any involvement in events and limiting his interactions with Uyghurs, he said. He placed a great deal of trust in the Chinese company."

Eli initially played a key role in the companys operations in Turkey, but after it solidified its presence there his significance diminished, said the person with knowledge of the situation.

Wadat speculated that Elis arrest could have stemmed from complaints from his Chinese colleagues.

I believe that the integration of a Chinese Uyghur into Turkish society to this extent also upset the Chinese side, he added.

Translated by RFA Uyghur. Edited by Roseanne Gerin and Malcolm Foster.
At least one person was killed and 152 were injured by a fresh 6.3-magnitude earthquake in western Afghanistan on early October 11, days after a series of quakes at the weekend that reportedly killed at least 2,000 people.

The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) said the latest magnitude 6.3-earthquake occurred some 28 kilometers outside Herat, the capital of the province by the same name.

Nisar Ahmad, spokesman for the governor of the province, said a number of villages had been destroyed and there was an unspecified number of injured people. He did not say anything about the number of deaths, but the Taliban-controlled Bakhtar news agency reported that one person died and 152 others were injured, citing local health officials.



Ahmadullah Muttaqi, director of information and culture for the Taliban-led government for Herat Province and the head of the earthquake relief commission, confirmed in an interview with RFE/RL's Radio Azadi that 120 people has been injured, but said this was a preliminary figure.



Muttaqi also said that the number of victims in the latest earthquake was low because many people have not returned to their homes since the previous earthquake.

The aid group Doctors Without Borders said the Herat regional hospital received nearly 120 injured from the latest temblor. The group, also known by its French acronym MSF, said it sent additional medical supplies to the hospital and was setting up four more medical tents at the facility.

Our teams are assisting in triaging emergency cases and managing stabilized patients admitted in the medical tents, MSF said on X, formerly known as Twitter.

The AFP news agency reported that patients were being treated in an outdoor courtyard at Herat Regional Hospital.

WATCH: Another strong earthquake shook western Afghanistan on October 11, just four days after a major temblor that claimed nearly 3,000 lives, according to Taliban officials.

Ambulances were being sent to Herat's Rabat Sangi district, which reportedly bore the brunt of the latest earthquake.

According to the AP news agency, the new quake destroyed some 700 homes in Chahak village, which had not been affected by the tremors of previous days.

No deaths have been reported so far in Chahak as people have taken shelter in tents this week, fearing for their lives as tremors continue to rock Herat, the AP also reported.

No further details were immediately available.

The epicenter of the first earthquake on October 7 was some 40 kilometers northwest of Herat, which has 700,000 people in the city and the surrounding area. It was followed by at least three major aftershocks.

The USGS recorded the largest of the temblors at a magnitude of 6.3, with the latest aftershock coming about 30 kilometers northeast of the city of Zindah Jan, which has a population of about 70,000 people.

Taliban officials said at least 2,000 people were killed in the weekend earthquakes, but did not come up with a final official figure.

On October 11, the Taliban Public Health Minister Qalandar Ebad lowered the toll to around 1,000.

"We have over 1,000 people martyred from the first incident," Ebad told reporters in Kabul.

The World Health Organization has put the total number of people affected at more than 11,000.

Earthquakes are common in Afghanistan, where there are a number of fault lines and frequent movement among three nearby tectonic plates.

Afghans are still reeling from recent quakes, including the magnitude 6.5-earthquake in March that struck much of western Pakistan and eastern Afghanistan, and an earthquake that hit eastern Afghanistan in June 2022, flattening stone and mud-brick homes and killing at least 1,000 people.

Afghanistan is already suffering a dire humanitarian crisis, with the widespread withdrawal of foreign aid following the Talibans ousting the Western-backed Afghan government and taking over the country in August 2021.

Herat Province, on the border with Iran, is home to around 1.9 million people, and its rural communities have been suffering from a yearslong drought.

With reporting by AP, AFP, and Reuters
Hora Sadat, a female YouTuber, built a large social-media following by producing light-hearted videos about life in Afghanistan.

Even after the Taliban seized power in 2021, the 25-year-old remained unfazed. She continued to generate content for her tens of thousands of subscribers despite the militant group's attempts to erase women from public life.

Last week, Sadat's social-media accounts fell silent. She was allegedly poisoned after attending a private event in the capital, Kabul, on August 21. The Taliban said it had arrested two people -- a man and a woman -- in connection with her death.

Although the motive for her alleged poisoning is not clear, her death has had a chilling effect on female online personalities and social-media influencers still active in Afghanistan.

Speaking to RFE/RL's Radio Azadi, several female YouTubers, who spoke on condition of anonymity for security reasons, said they fear for their lives and have cut their online presence.

"Any woman who works for the media, is active in civil society, or appears on social media faces extreme threats," Shakeela, a female YouTuber who requested that her real name not be used, told Radio Azadi.

Shakeela says she no longer films in public, opting to produce videos from the safety of her home. Even then, she does not show her face in her videos. "Out of fear, I cannot even tell our neighbors that I run a YouTube channel," said Shakeela, who lives in Kabul.

Only a handful of young female Afghan YouTubers have continued their activities under the Taliban, which has waged a brutal crackdown on dissent.

Many social-media personalities, including men, have avoided criticizing the Taliban or commenting on politics. Instead, they have focused on showcasing Afghan culture and natural beauty. Despite their apolitical nature, the online content has shed some light on Taliban-ruled Afghanistan.

Suraya, another female YouTuber in Kabul, says Sadat's death has spread fear among Afghan women who play a visible role in society. "I am terrified," she told Radio Azadi.

'You're On Your Own'

Some women's rights activists in Afghanistan have blamed the Taliban for Sadat's death, although there is no evidence of the militant group's involvement.

Last week, members of the Afghan Women's Empowerment Movement gathered at Sadat's grave and expressed concerns over what they said were the targeted killings of prominent women.

"By going to Hora's grave, we first want to share our sorrow with her family and friends. Then we want the international community to punish those who are behind the mysterious and targeted killings of women," Halima Hakimi, a member of the movement, told Radio Azadi.

In January, Mursal Nabidzadah, a former female lawmaker, was shot dead along with a bodyguard when unidentified gunmen broke into her house in Kabul. The motives for her killing remain unclear.

Sadat's death has underscored the dangers faced by women under the Taliban.

Since seizing power, the hard-line Islamist group has banned women from education and most forms of employment, effectively denied them any public role in society, and imposed strict limitations on their mobility and appearance. The militants have violently suppressed protests by women and detained female activists.

The Taliban has also dismantled the Women's Affairs Ministry and Afghanistan's Independent Human Rights Commission as well as closing shelters, legal assistance programs, and special courts that were designed to combat violence against women and girls.

"The message this has sent to women and girls is that if you are facing violence or threats, the Taliban administration will not offer you any help -- you're on your own," said Heather Barr, associate women's rights director at Human Rights Watch. "Women have every reason to fear for their safety."
Imprisoned Russian politicians -- including Kremlin critics Aleksei Navalny and Vladimir Kara-Murza -- along with other activists are holding a one-day hunger strike on October 30 to honor political prisoners as residents of towns and cities in several Russian regions marked the Day of Remembrance for Victims of Political Repression.

The hunger strike was initiated earlier in October by Navalny, Kara-Murza, and others including Lilia Chanysheva, Daniel Kholodny, Vadim Ostanin, and Mikhail Kriger, all of whom have been recognized as political prisoners by Russian human rights groups.

Under Stalin, millions of Soviet citizens were killed, tortured, imprisoned, or exiled by the Soviet state. Nostalgia for Stalin and for the Soviet Union has flourished under President Vladimir Putin, a former KGB officer who has praised the dictator as an effective manager.

October 30 was chosen to honor gulag inmates in the Russian regions of Mordovia and Perm who started a mass hunger strike on that day in 1974, protesting political persecution in the Soviet Union.

"In this situation, we think it is right for us to turn to our roots and traditions," the group of activists said when announcing the hunger strike.

Navalny's website said on October 30 that a book based on the answers of Russian political prisoners to questions by noted Russian writer Boris Akunin (Grigori Chkhartishvili), who currently resides in London, was issued to mark the day.

"The inaction of good people is enough for evil's triumph.... The hypocrisy of neutrality, indifference to politics, withdrawing to cover up laziness, cowardness, and turpitude are major reasons why a small group of well-organized wrongdoers have mistreated millions in the course of humankind's history," Navalny told Akunin, adding that "in the current dramatic times, I love Russia not less than always, as I know how to differentiate the government from the people."

In the Far Eastern city of Magadan, local residents gathered near the Mask of Sorrow monument close to the city and held an action called Not To Be Forgotten. The participants read aloud the names, ages, occupations, dates of trials or executions of their relatives during the Soviet dictator Josef Stalin's Great Terror campaign in the 1930s-1950s.

The Mask of Sorrow monument designed by late Russian American sculptor Ernst Neizvestny, whose parents were victims of the Stalinist repressions in the 1930s, is located on the Krutaya hill near Magadan, where the gulag's major transit prison was once located.

In the city of Birobidzhan, local authorities and residents laid flowers at a monument honoring Soviet repression victims. It is believed that about 6,000 residents of the surrounding Jewish Autonomous Region were persecuted during Stalin's purge.

Meanwhile, in the capital of the Siberian region of Buryatia, Ulan-Ude, a makeshift memorial appeared near a monument commemorating victims of Soviet-era repression to honor 59 victims from the Ukrainian village of Hroza who were killed by a Russian missile strike on October 5. The makeshift memorial consisted of flowers and posters, saying " Village of Hroza," and "Stop Putin -- Stop the War."

Authorities in two major Siberian cities, Novosibirsk and Tomsk, canceled events without explanation but dozens of local residents in the two cities laid flowers to monuments commemorating victims of Soviet repression.

Police in Yoshkar-Ola, the capital of Russia's Mari El Republic in the Volga Federal District, detained local resident Kirill Voitovich, who came to the event to honor victims of Soviet-era repression on October 30 with a poster in Belarusian saying "The Night of Poets or Black Night, October 29-30. Eternal memory of the Bolshevik terror's victims. Live on forever."

Voitovich was marking October 29-30, 1937, when the Soviet security service, the NKVD, executed at least 132 Belarusian and Jewish intellectuals. The mass executions are known as the Night of Poets or Black Night.

A day earlier, hundreds of people in Moscow honored the memory of thousands of men and women executed by the Soviet authorities. The event held near the former KGB headquarters in the Russian capital was attended by foreign diplomats.

Similar events were held in several other towns and cities across Russia on October 29.
The Russian occupiers actually have nowhere to put the servicemen of the Russian Armed Forces who managed to survive after "bavovna" by the Ukrainian armed forces. Some of them are being taken to hospitals in seemingly deep rear areas, where they have to be accommodated directly in the corridors because of a shortage of places.

ADVERTISIMENT

Such is the situation now in the hospital of temporarily occupied Sevastopol. This was stated by the representation of the President of Ukraine in the Autonomous Republic of Crimea.

"Open sources report that hospitals in Sevastopol are overflowing with wounded Russian military personnel," the summary says.

It is noted that the Cargo 300 invaders are placed in the corridors of the hospital and even the canteen. Medical personnel, accordingly, there is also not enough there.

At the same time, the Russian occupiers in Crimea feel the approach of the Ukrainian armed forces more and more every day. They were greatly panicked by the special operation of the Ukrainian Main Directorate of Intelligence and Navy with the landing of Ukrainian soldiers near Mayak on Cape Tarkhankut on August 24, as well as the repeated landing of Ukrainian troops in Novoozerne.

ADVERTISIMENT

The invaders once again had to cope with a fire near the Starokrymsk firing range and a "bavovna" near Olenivka. In addition, last week the Russian Armed Forces military also had to deal with the destruction of their S-400 Triumf surface-to-air missile system, explosions in Perevalne, Razdolne, Yevpatoria and near the base of the 126th Guards Brigade of the Black Sea Fleet, as well as an attack by dozens of drones. All these incidents added to the troops of the aggressor country losses.

As reported by OBOZREVATEL, earlier the Russians brought to the occupied part of Zaporizhzhya "touring" doctors. Medics from the Russian hinterland settled in the homes of Ukrainians.

Only verified information from us in Telegram-channel Obozrevatel and Viber. Do not fall for fakes!
3

Ruins of the town of "G" stand near Degelen Mountain, what locals call the abandoned military town on the site.

The locals took the buildings apart for construction materials that they could sell. Heavy machinery was used to destroy the town.
A Moscow court rejected a bid for the pretrial release of Igor Girkin, the former leader of Russia-backed separatists in Ukraine and the latest one-time Kremlin favorite finding himself in peril after criticizing President Vladimir Putins sputtering war effort in Ukraine.

The case is being closely watched for indications of how far the Kremlin is willing to accept criticism of the war effort, which has lasted longer and been more costly and deadly than expected, with Ukraine now in the midst of a counteroffensive that is retaking ground lost early in the full-scale invasion.

Girkin (aka Strelkov) had been a key commander of Russia-backed separatists in Ukraine's eastern Donbas region in 2014 and helped Russia annex Ukraine's Crimean Peninsula that year.

He was also one of three men sentenced by a Dutch court to life imprisonment over the downing of Malaysia Airlines flight MH17 over Ukraine in 2014.

However, Girkin, 52, in recent months has become a vocal critic of Russia's war effort in his military blog and is charged with inciting extremism.

He lashed out at Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu for "mistakes" in the ongoing invasion, accused him and Putin of "incompetence," and argued that a total mobilization is needed for Russia to achieve victory.

In one of his harshest rants, Girkin said in a July 18 post on his official Telegram channel that Putin should transfer power "to someone truly capable and responsible." The post garnered almost 800,000 views.

Girkin was arrested in Moscow last month and on July 21 was sent to a two-month pretrial detention. He pleaded not guilty.

At his August 29 hearing, Girkin said he has no plans to flee the country, pointing to the threat of a life sentence by a Dutch court and insisting he is in poor health.

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.

"I have no reason to hide from the court and the investigation," he told the court.

However, Judge Yulia Komleva said the earlier court ruling to hold Girkin in pretrial custody until at least September 18 would remain in place.

Girkin faces up to five years in prison should he be convicted of the charges.

While Russia has seen some anti-war sentiment, much of the harshest criticism has come from hard-liners such as Girkin, who have pushed for a more forceful military effort in Ukraine.

The court ruling comes days after the death in a suspicious plane crash of Wagner mercenary chief Yevgeny Prigozhin.

Prigozhin, a longtime Putin association and ally, played an instrumental role in the fight against Ukrainian forces, leading his mercenary force in key battles, including the eventual drive to capture the destroyed Ukrainian city of Bakhmut.

However, Prigozhin led a short-lived mutiny on June 24 that saw Wagner fighters seize the southern city of Rostov-on-Don and march to within 200 kilometers of Moscow. A Russian military aircraft was shot down during the mutiny, and altogether 13 Russian Air Force personnel were killed. It was the most serious challenge to Putin in his more than two decades in power.

Prigozhin called off the mutiny after an apparent deal with Putin that was said to guaranteed his safety, but Putin nevertheless denounced the insurrection as a stab in the back and vowed to punish all "traitors" involved.

The suspicious nature of the plane crash -- which also killed top Wagner commander Dmitry Utkin -- has led many people to speculate that Putin was behind the incident. The Kremlin denied any connection and an investigation into the accident is said to be ongoing.

With reporting by Current Time, RFE/RL's Echo of the Caucasus, and Reuters
Dmitri Alperovitch is a Soviet-born cybersecurity expert and entrepreneur who has waded deeply into geopolitics. A co-founder of CrowdStrike who helped investigate high-profile cases including the Russian hack of the U.S. Democratic Party in 2016, he also launched the Silverado Policy Accelerator, a nonprofit think tank, to examine U.S. policy challenges in the 21st century.

Alperovitch spoke to RFE/RL's Georgian Service after the crash of Wagner founder Yevgeny Prigozhin's private jet on August 23. He talked about what Prigozhin's demise says about President Vladimir Putin's "gangster state," the chilling message it sends, and its likely effect on events in Africa and the war in Ukraine.

RFE/RL: Prigozhin might have sung his own aria already, but what about the Wagner opera itself?

Dmitri Alperovitch: Well, I think that the Russian military would love to have the Wagner folks -- both the commanders and individual infantrymen -- join up and sign contracts either directly with the Russian military or through one of their cutout PMCs [private military companies], like Redut, for example, that the Russian military organized a few years ago. And in fact, Putin personally made the case to them a week after the mutiny when he met with about 30 Wagner commanders and Prigozhin himself -- in the Kremlin, as he himself retold -- and tried to push them to abandon Prigozhin and sign up. And according to his telling, they were all ready to do so, if not for Prigozhin, who said, speaking for them, that they did not want it.

RFE/RL: What do you think could have made Prigozhin think that he could escape the punishment?

Alperovitch: This goes to the issue of why he was [allegedly] killed, and I do not buy the argument that this was simply revenge for the mutiny. I actually do think that there was a deal that was made after the mutiny, where he was going to be forgiven for this act of disobedience, to put it mildly. But it was going to be on Putin's terms; and one of those terms is that he was going to go away. [Exile to] Belarus was not really about Belarus as much as about Prigozhin kind of disappearing into the night. And he decided not to do that.

And this latest confrontation about Africa, I think, was the straw that broke the camel's back, where I think Putin was sitting back and saying: "Wait a second, not only does this guy get away with a mutiny and I gave him his life back and guaranteed his safety, but now he dares to challenge me. The payment for the mutiny is that I'm going to take away your business, and I'm going to give it to myself and my cronies. And you are daring to resist that. That's it. You're done."

RFE/RL: So, he reneged on a pardon that was given to him?

Alperovitch: Yeah, I don't know that he knew exactly that he was reneging on it, because I'm not sure that the deal that he got specified all those details. But certainly, in Putin's mind, it was a complete capitulation by Prigozhin, and that whatever conditions that Putin would put forward -- even if he didn't mention Africa originally, but if he decided later on at some point that he was going to take Africa away from Prigozhin -- that Prigozhin's job was to say, "Yes, sir," and oblige. And Prigozhin dared again to obstruct, to fight back, and that was unacceptable.

RFE/RL: Speaking of Belarus, we should probably mention the great mediator, Belarusian leader Alyaksandr Lukashenka. He's had an almost Shakespearean role in all this. How does it look from your perspective?

Alperovitch: I don't think that he was some great negotiator here; I think he was a messenger boy. Because Putin, clearly at the time of the mutiny, was uninterested in talking directly with Prigozhin. Prigozhin wanted to talk to Putin directly and explain, because I think Prigozhin got very scared during that episode that Putin was now interpreting this clearly as a challenge to him, which I don't think he ever intended it to be.

I think Prigozhin was very misguided in that he thought he could drive an armored column to Moscow and still be friends with Putin."

I think Prigozhin was very misguided in that he thought he could drive an armored column to Moscow and still be friends with Putin, and just, you know, ask for the resignations of Defense Minister [Sergei] Shoigu and Chief of the General Staff [Valery] Gerasimov. But Putin obviously did not take it that way, and he was livid. And Prigozhin was trying to make amends, and Lukashenka was the one guy that could talk to both of them and pass the messages along. So that's the role that he played.

The Belarus scenario of "Wagner goes to Belarus" never really made much sense. I think it was really much more of an exile for Prigozhin and Putin sort of waving away and saying: "OK, I will forgive him, I'll let him live. He just needs to go away." Where he [went] away, I don't think Putin really cared a whole lot. But when Prigozhin, instead of going away, decided to keep challenging the Russian system and the Russian government, that's when he signed his own death warrant.

RFE/RL: Speaking of Shoigu and Gerasimov -- can they breathe a sigh of relief now, or is it still murky waters for them?

Alperovitch: I don't think they're breathing a sigh of relief; I think they're toasting champagne glasses right now. Because not only did they have their rival eliminated, but it's also very, very sweet revenge, right? After all, even though Putin took it as an affront to him personally that there was this march toward Moscow, that was really the only thing that Prigozhin ever did to Putin. But with Shoigu and Gerasimov, he was vicious to them in all of his videos and public statements, making fun of them, and trolling them nonstop. So, to say that they had no love lost for him is a massive understatement.

RFE/RL: So, whether it was revenge or punishment for reneging on the deal....

Alperovitch: I just want to make clear: It's not so much that he was reneging on the deal -- I'm not so sure the deal ever included Africa -- but it's really about Putin thinking that the deal means that Prigozhin is going to disappear and never be a problem for him again. And that's what Prigozhin did not get.

RFE/RL: OK, let's rephrase it. Whether it was revenge or....

Alperovitch: Business.

RFE/RL: The business of Prigozhin's apparent reluctance to disappear. But the actual [alleged] execution, the manner of it, was very sensationalist, right out of mafia and Hollywood movies. They could have chosen many other methods, but they [allegedly] opted for this. What's the message beyond that?

Alperovitch: That's hard to tell. I'm not sure that Putin was actually micromanaging the means of [an alleged] execution. I think he most likely gave the order [to] go do it, and his underlings -- most likely the FSB (Federal Security Service) -- that [allegedly] carried it out, decided on the means. And that probably was related to how to get to Prigozhin, given that he is very paranoid and he has a lot of security, so to kill him in Africa was probably very challenging, given that he was surrounded literally by mercenaries; killing him in Moscow, when he's always traveling with significant security, was also probably going to be very challenging. So, it actually makes sense to try to orchestrate a quote-unquote accident in the air. That may have been just the easiest way to get to it.

And it also probably has a little bit of a poetic justice in their minds to it, because after all, not only did Prigozhin march on Moscow, but in the process, he had shot down a number of Russian aviators and killed them. So, to have him die by the same death -- falling out of the sky-- has a certain ring to it that I'm sure certain people in Moscow, if not Putin himself, decided to appreciate.

RFE/RL: When the Prigozhin mutiny happened, there was lots of talk that "Putin is weakened," or "his grasp on power is weakening," etc. Has he shown Russia and the wider world who is the boss?

Alperovitch: Yes, he has. I think he has reestablished -- for now, at least -- his hold on power. I think he sent a clear message that "My enemies tend to die. Never forget that."

RFE/RL: Even if it takes two months for them to die.

Alperovitch: Yes, yes. In fact, that's even better, right, that you never know when the sword of Damocles is going to strike you. But I think his geopolitical issues actually get worse, because this rush for Africa is going to be very challenging for him. Prigozhin was not just the CEO of this business empire; he was a really phenomenal organizer, quite entrepreneurial, and an inspirational leader to his people. Even though he was a brutal thug, he learned how to rule by both fear and inspiration. He had a lot of connections with all of these leaders across the continent that were personal in nature that will be hard to replicate and will certainly take time.

It's unclear what's going to happen to Wagner. Some of these people may decide to sign on and work with the Defense Ministry, some of them may just decide, "You know what, I'm done here. I liked working for Prigozhin, but I'm just going to go home now and cash in my chips." So, this is going to be a challenge for them to actually rebuild what Prigozhin had constructed, in terms of this whole system in Africa, and it will certainly take time and will not be without problems.

And then the second thing is that Wagner as an assault force that Prigozhin had built and used successfully in Ukraine to take Bakhmut is also now done. And to the extent that Putin could have used Wagner again in future offensives in Ukraine, that's going to be much more difficult for him and probably less likely to happen.

So, yes, he has taken out a rival who dared to challenge him. Yes, he has taken over his business interests. But his geopolitical strategic interests -- resolving the mess that he got into with this war in Ukraine and increasing his influence in Africa -- have actually not improved as a result of this action.

The one thing you cannot do is interfere with business interests in a mafia state, which is what Russia is today."

RFE/RL: Prigozhin was not exactly alone. He had his supporters; he had his people who were sympathetic to what he was saying. What happens to the so-called hard-liners?

Alperovitch: Well, there's been a crackdown on them even before this big Prigozhin incident. One of them was [Igor] Girkin, (aka) Strelkov, who had no love lost for Prigozhin but was very critical of this war and of Putin. Now he has his issues with the justice system and with Russia -- to the extent that you can call it the "justice" system.

So, some of these "turbopatriots," as some have called them, and hard-liners, nationalists, have already been quieting down as a result of that initial action. And certainly, this just adds fuel to the fire, that the tsar has woken up and all of the things that he has tolerated until now he may no longer tolerate going forward. And people are trying to figure out once again what is going to be allowable, and how to manage their own criticisms -- to the extent that they express them -- within the system.

RFE/RL: What are the implications for Ukraine, after Prigozhin?

Alperovitch: I've had a lot of conversations with a range of officials in Kyiv since the mutiny in June but also since Prigozhin's likely death. And actually, their reaction is really interesting: It's sort of taking out the popcorn and enjoying the show but also appreciating that it really has very little relevance to their current fight.

The Tavberidze Interviews Since the beginning of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, Vazha Tavberidze of RFE/RL's Georgian Service has been interviewing diplomats, military experts, and academics who hold a wide spectrum of opinions about the war's course, causes, and effects. To read all of his interviews, click here.

Wagner is out of Ukraine, of course, and has been out of Ukraine since early June, so what's taking place right now with this counteroffensive, Wagner is not involved at all. So, [regarding] what happens to Prigozhin, people in Kyiv somewhat pay attention to [it] but not a whole lot because they're preoccupied with their own concerns and they know that this episode really has very little effect on their lives going forward.

There are two things that they can draw from it. That, one, Wagner as it existed under Prigozhin really has ended, and that's a positive for Ukraine -- frankly, a positive for the world -- because whatever form it continues in if it continues, it will not be the same, and it will not be as effective as it had been under Prigozhin. I think that is very clear. But, two, it also shows that Putin's word can't be trusted. This is the guy that guaranteed Prigozhin's safety, and for whatever reasons he chose to renege on that word -- the reality is that he did renege on his word. And if you're going to negotiate with him some sort of settlement....

RFE/RL: Although one might argue that Ukrainians know that by now, even without Prigozhin.

Alperovitch: The Ukrainians certainly know it. But I think there's a lot of people in Europe and elsewhere who keep talking about the prospect for negotiations. And, you know, I keep getting asked whenever I visit European capitals: "When are they going to finally start?" And my response to them is: "Who are you negotiating with and what do you think that you can get from Putin, first and foremost, and what do you think you can get from him that you can actually trust?" And I think that's going to be a message from the Ukrainians going forward: that this is not a guy that can be trusted and don't keep pushing us to negotiate with him.

RFE/RL: And finally, the world press had a field day writing about this, replete with all sorts of references, starting from classical literature and ending with pop culture, mafia movies, even The Wire got a mention. What do you think would be a fitting epitaph for Prigozhin?

Alperovitch: Well, I actually think that the whole episode is perfectly reflected by the Godfather scene where Michael Corleone says, "It's not personal, Sonny, it's strictly business." That's what I think actually happened here. Putin did know Prigozhin, as he said, for many, many years, going back to the early 1990s; there's some indications they may have had some intersections around casinos that Putin was responsible for granting licenses to in his early days in St. Petersburg, and he's certainly run into him on a number of occasions over the years.

I think [Putin] probably did not relish the idea of killing Prigozhin. I think a lot of people assume that he's this guy that [is] almost a caricature of a bloodthirsty tyrant that just assassinates people for fun. I don't think that's the case at all. I think he doesn't mind killing people if he thinks that it advances his goals, but I don't think he particularly enjoys it. And I think he probably wishes that he hadn't [allegedly] had to take this route, that it hadn't come to [this].

But it was business. And, you know, the one thing you cannot do is interfere with business interests in a mafia state, which is what Russia is today. It is not just a dictatorship, an authoritarian system; it literally is a gangster state that Putin has created, and it lives by gangster rules.

This interview has been edited for clarity and length.
Ukraine held a memorial ceremony on August 29 for Andriy Pilshchikov, one of the three pilots who died in a midair collision while on a training mission over the Zhytomyr region. Pilshchikov, who went by the call sign Juice, had become well-known after giving numerous interviews to international media in which he called for modern fighter jets to be provided to Ukraine.
Ukrainian parliament members are proposing new legislation that would abolish a 2001 law against pornography, saying the current rules criminalize normal people and open the door to police corruption. Porn makers who support the change have helped raise $850,000 in war aid for Ukraine by offering revealing photos in exchange for charity donations. Some 1,200 porn-related charges are filed every year in Ukraine and anyone with nude photos of someone on their phone is technically subject to prosecution.
After the attacks on the Crimean Bridge, the Russian occupiers decided to strengthen its defences. To do this, they are installing boom barriers near the structure, which the invaders expect will stop Ukrainian maritime drones.

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These barriers will make the work of Ukrainian drones somewhat more difficult, but they will not prevent it, as there are already examples of this. This was stated by the head of the Defence Intelligence of Ukraine Kyrylo Budanov in an interview with Krym. Realii.

He believes that the installation of boom barriers near the Crimean bridge will not have the effect that the Russian occupiers are counting on. Ukrainian drones have already shown that they can break through such barriers.

"For example, there was a case when marine scooters entered the waters of Sevastopol Bay. It [the marine drone] was destroyed during the approach to the Admiral Essen frigate, right during the approach. If you look at this situation at first, it seems to be unfortunate. But the blast wave - because it was destroyed about 100 metres from the ship, and the charge is quite powerful - and the shrapnel completely damaged the ship's electronic equipment, some electronics, antennas, certain systems and the hydroacoustic system. And it took 3.5 months to repair, 3.5 months to stand in the dock," Budanov said.

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According to him, boom barriers have also been installed in Sevastopol Bay.

"Sevastopol Bay is heavily fenced off. Yes, it will complicate the work, it will definitely complicate it. But it does not make it unrealistic... Again, the example of the frigate Essen. The booby-traps have been passed. What's next?" - Budanov said.

Earlier, the Defence Intelligence of Ukraine told how Russians are trying to protect the Crimean Bridge. They intend to flood at least six ferries near the facility in order to create a protective strip in front of the bridge. It is planned to install boom barriers between the flooded ferries.

Only verified information is available on our Obozrevatel Telegram channel, Threads and Viber. Don't fall for fakes!
STUDENTS in Rotherham secured exam success in their GCSEs despite a significant recalibration in marking standards.

After the Covid pandemic caused huge disruption to pupils education, Rotherhams pass rate took a similar hit to that seen across the country.

But headteachers said they were delighted with the results and praised students application and hard work.

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Liam Ransome, principal at Wath Academy, said there was evidence of an improving trend since the last pre-pandemic results.

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The academys overall attainment across eight subjects and attainment in English, maths and science has significantly improved from 2019, despite the Governments intention to return to pre-pandemic grade boundaries and outcomes, he added.

Our students and staff have gone above and beyond and this years results are testament to their efforts, particularly due to the disruption to education the students faced due to the pandemic over the last few years.

There are many success stories within the year group, particularly Mya Mcveigh-Judd and Holly McMaster who achieved ten grade 9s, Isobelle Fenton achieved eight grade 9s and Oliver Handby achieved seven grade 9s.

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We are very proud of all of our students due to the hard work and dedication they demonstrated throughout their time with us at the academy.

We would like to thank the students, parents, staff and the community for their continued investment and support.

Oakwood head Chris Eccles said: We are proud of the many achievements of the class of 2023, collectively and as individuals.

They have overcome unimaginable disruption to their teaching and learning during their five years and it is testimony to their hard work, commitment and determination that so many of them have done well and been rewarded for their efforts.

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At this stage we are not able to calculate the progress they have made as this is determined annually once all results nationally have been calibrated and greater uncertainty lies with this this year, with the reported move back towards the 2019 grade boundaries and as a consequence a reduction in the number of higher grades.

However, at Oakwood there have been improvements from 2019 at 7+ and 5+ in English, history, religious studies, biology, maths, chemistry, physics, sport and health & social care.

Thanks to the support pupils have received from staff across the school, Oakwood High School will once again have helped secure the next steps into education, training or employment for their pupils and wish them every success in the future.

Students at Wales High School were also celebrating as they picked up the first wave of results since education returned to normal, having spent months learning at home during Years 8 and 9.

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Deserving of special mention was Emily West, who achieved a total of seven grade 9s, two grade 8s and one grade 7.

Also achieving highly were Simon Mayor, with seven 9s, two 7s, and one 6, and Emma Rogerson, who achieved seven 9s, one 8 and two 6s.

Emily Bott, Grace Perry, Charlie Smith, Isobel Grand, Henry Morrow, Molly Shepherd, Lilia Jones, Lilia Harris, Hannah Shonfield, Darci Fretwell, William Shepherd and Laura Kedziak also notched up their fair share of grade 9s.

Wales head Pepe DiIasio said: Congratulations to all our students and teachers on these results.

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An enormous amount of hard work has gone into these qualifications in often difficult circumstances and the young people receiving their results today deserve every great credit for what they have achieved.

The borough-wide rate for grade 4 or better in English fell from 77 per cent to 71.3 per cent since last year, with 54.1 per cent of students achieving grade 5 or better (down from 61.7 per cent).

In maths, 67 per cent of Rotherham students achieved a grade 4, with 47.2 per cent of students achieving grade 5 or better.

Cllr Victoria Cusworth, RMBCs cabinet member for children and young people, said: I'm extremely proud of all our young people, teachers, parents, schools and everyone involved in supporting children to achieve the best GCSE results they can.

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Once again, weve seen many examples of strong results from children across Rotherham.

The last two years have been extremely disruptive and difficult for everyone involved in education due to the pandemic, but the resilience and hard work they have shown has been outstanding and I wish all our pupils well in whatever comes next for them.

Support is available in school on next steps for young people who havent achieved the results they wanted.

If you havent done as well as youd hoped it isnt the end of the world by any means - time is still on your side - and there are plenty of options still open to you to get to where you want to be.

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There has been a significant recalibration in GCSE pass grades on a national level this year and Rotherham sits in this trend.

What is positive is that we have seen a number of real successes across schools in Rotherham and this bodes well for positive progression in attainment across the borough as we go forward.
The Russian military command continues to expend relatively elite airborne forces, sending them to defend vulnerable positions against Ukrainian counterattacks. At present, we are talking about the Zaporizhzhya direction of the front, where the occupants are suffering losses.

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In the network appeared footage that confirms that the Russian troops do not control part of the settlements, no matter how propagandists assure the opposite. This was pointed out by the Institute for the Study of War (ISW).

Thus, on August 27, the Russians circulated a video with the alleged destruction of a Ukrainian armored personnel carrier near the village of Robotine in Zaporizhzhya. But the investigators noted that the occupants had actually filmed the strike of their Lancet drone on their own BTR-82A (abandoned or damaged) near this village.

"This second new APC loss means they are not in control of Robotino, actively counterattacking the village but are unable to do so," reads the caption to the video on social network X (formerly Twitter).

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It has been established that servicemen of the 76th Guards Airborne Assault Division of the Russian Airborne Troops resorted to this method of gaining "success" on the front.

As ISW noted, the published footage shows that the Russian military command has moved its units from the Kremenna neighborhood in the Luhansk region to the south - to reinforce positions near Robotino.

Renee emphasized that elements of almost all Russian Airborne Forces formations operate in areas where Ukrainian forces are conducting counter-offensive operations, and this lateral redeployment further suggests that the occupiers may use "elite" units to reinforce critical sections of the front line.

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Prior to that, Russia redeployed the 7th Guards Mountain Division of the Airborne Forces from Kherson region to support its defenses in the east and west of Zaporizhzhya region, and redeployed other Airborne Forces forces from Luhansk region to defend against Ukrainian counterattacks on the flanks of Bakhmut.

According to analysts, Russian military commanders have consistently relied on paratrooper formations for both offensive and defensive forces, and they have likely degraded because of their high operational tempo.

"Degradation of these forces could weaken Russia's ability to conduct complex defensive operations and would almost certainly undermine any intentions of Russia to resume large-scale offensive operations, which have predominantly relied on the relatively elite infantry that the Russian Federation now lacks," ISW believes.

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As reported by OBOZREVATEL, August 28 in the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine officially confirmed the liberation of the village of Robotine in the Tokmak district of Zaporizhzhya region. It emphasized that the defenders are consolidating on the occupied positions and continue to advance.

It is known that in this area the AFU broke through the first line of defense of the RF Armed Forces. The occupants built a huge number of engineering fortifications and minefields near the village, so the advance of the Defense Forces was extremely difficult.

Only verified information from us in Telegram-channel Obozrevatel and Viber. Do not fall for fakes!
Roundworm

Medical Professionals Continue to Examine this Extraordinary Case

CANBERRA: In a remarkable and rarely encountered medical incident, a neurosurgeon attending to a woman's perplexing symptoms in an Australian hospital was confronted with an astonishing sight as a live worm maneuvering within her brain. During a brain biopsy procedure conducted at a Canberra hospital last year, Dr. Hari Priya Bandi, a skilled neurosurgeon, made an astonishing discovery. Employing tweezers, he successfully removed an eight-centimeter (nearly three-inch) long worm from the patient's brain, an event that left her astounded.

Recalling the incident, Dr. Bandi conveyed, "I thought, what is this thing? It is a living and moving thing." The extraordinary occurrence was reported by The Canberra Times newspaper on Tuesday.

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The extracted worm was identified as the 'Ophidascaris robertsi', an Australian roundworm species that was previously unknown to exhibit parasitic behavior in humans. Typically found within the snake species Carpet Python, this worm's presence within a human brain is a medical rarity.

Detailing this extraordinary case, Dr. Bandi and Dr Sanjaya Senanayake, an infectious disease specialist based in Canberra, have authored an article published in the latest edition of the journal 'Emerging Infectious Diseases'. The article sheds light on the unconventional circumstances surrounding the discovery and extraction of the live worm.

Dr. Senanayake recounted that in June of the previous year, the worm was detected within the brain of a 64-year-old female patient, a time when he was also on duty at the hospital. Describing the sequence of events, he said, "I received a call about a patient admitted with an infection. A live worm had been surgically removed from her brain."

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The patient had been admitted to the hospital after enduring a span of memory loss and symptoms indicative of post-traumatic stress disorder for three months. Prior to this, she had sought medical attention at a local hospital for issues such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, dry cough, and night sweats.

Notably, The discovery of this live worm in an individual's brain highlights the unpredictability and complexity of medical cases, even in modern times. The medical community is grappling to understand how this specific worm, known to favor snake hosts, found its way into a human brain, presenting a baffling scientific enigma.

While medical professionals continue to examine this extraordinary case, it stands as a testament to the remarkable and intricate nature of the human body and the mysteries that can still lie within, awaiting discovery and exploration.
The aggressor country Russia has only slightly replenished its stockpile of precision-guided missiles through mothballing in the summer and may launch a broader campaign of strikes against Ukraine's critical infrastructure as early as autumn. But it is likely that the number of missiles available in Russia is not enough to carry out massive attacks, as in the winter of 2022-2023.

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At the same time, experts acknowledge that the enemy may resort to new tactics that involve the use of fewer missiles and more attack drones. This is stated in a report by the Institute for the Study of War (ISW).

It cited new figures on the stockpile of Russian missiles, which were announced the day before by Vadym Skibitskyi, deputy head of the Defence Intelligence of Ukraine, - 585, not including long-range X-22. Compared to the data for January 2023, they look like this:

- 270 Iskander ballistic and cruise missiles (+126 since January);

- 140 Kalibr sea-launched cruise missiles (+81);

- approximately 100 X-101/X-55/X-555 cruise missiles (-18 since January);

- about 75 Kinzhal ballistic missiles (+22);

- 150 X-22/32 missiles (-12).

"It is unclear whether these figures are estimates or accurate, but they suggest that Russian forces were able to marginally replenish their stockpile of precision-guided missiles after the end of the larger Russian air campaign in the autumn and winter of 2022. In May 2023, Russian forces launched a new air campaign aimed at maintaining a more regular pace of strikes on Ukraine with fewer missiles, and Skibitskyi suggested that this would allow Russian forces to replenish their stockpiles," the ISW said.

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The DIU representative also added that Russian forces are conducting reconnaissance of Ukrainian infrastructure facilities and may launch a series of large-scale strikes using missiles and drones in late September or October 2023.

Previously, Russia used up to 100 missiles in a single series of strikes during its air campaign in the autumn and winter of 2022, and the slight replenishment of its missile stockpile is unlikely to allow for an attack on the same scale. Colonel Yuriy Ihnat, a spokesman for the Ukrainian Air Force, said that Russia is increasing missile production, but that it is not enough to maintain the same intensity of strikes as in 2022.

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At the same time, according to Ukrainian officials, any future Russian strike campaign may involve new tactics: the use of fewer missiles and more drones.

Skibitskyi noted that the occupiers are improving the speed of targeting and decision-making, choosing targets more carefully and looking for flight routes to bypass Ukrainian air defence systems.

ISW has previously reported on the ability of the Russian Armed Forces to innovate and learn during the war. And Skibitskyi also says that possible future large-scale Russian strikes could use only 10 to 30 missiles, but would be accompanied by a much larger number of Iranian Shahed-136/131 drones.

Both he and Ihnat said that more drones would enable the aggressor to further circumvent Ukrainian air defences, allowing other projectiles to reach their targets.

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Ihnat also said that the drones are likely to be used to strike Ukrainian energy infrastructure, while Skibitskyi noted that Russian forces have previously used Shaheds to cause significant damage to Ukrainian power substations.

"Russia has begun to produce modified versions of Shahed-131/136 drones domestically, but is struggling to produce them at the desired pace and quality. The Russian command may believe that a large number of attack drones will allow them to crush Ukraine's air defences, but in fact, Shaheds remain the Russian Federation's most precise weapon system that is most vulnerable to Ukrainian air defences," ISW stated.

As OBOZREVATEL previously reported, analysts at the Molfar OSINT agency have identified dozens of people who help Russia create its own Shahed kamikaze attack drones. Not only do Russians receive deadly UAVs from Iran, but they have also decided to set up a plant in Tatarstan to produce them.

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Only verified information is available on our Obozrevatel Telegram channel, Threads and Viber. Don't fall for fakes!
Wrestling Federation of India

Andhra Pradesh Amateur Wrestling Association was asked to approach the High Court with their Grievances

NEW-DELHI: In a recent development, the Supreme Court of India has declined to intervene in the decision taken by the Punjab and Haryana High Court to suspend the elections of the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI). The decision came in response to a petition filed by the Andhra Pradesh Amateur Wrestling Association, which had sought the Supreme Court's intervention against the High Court's ruling.

A distinguished bench comprising Justice Abhay S Oka and Justice Pankaj Mittal emphasized that the petitioner should direct their concerns to the Punjab and Haryana High Court, which had issued the stay order on the WFI elections. The bench asserted that the appropriate course of action for the petitioner was to address their grievances at the High Court level rather than filing a special leave petition at the Supreme Court.

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"Why should we hear it? You go to the High Court... Instead of filing an application to vacate the interim stay, the petitioner decided to approach the Supreme Court. We, therefore, decline to entertain this special leave petition," the bench articulated during the hearing.

Notably, The wrestling community had been awaiting a decision on the matter following the Andhra Pradesh Amateur Wrestling Association's appeal against the High Court's August 11 order to halt the elections. The apex court's ruling to defer to the High Court's jurisdiction reaffirms the established legal principle of allowing lower courts to address matters within their purview.
Visa Fraud

Arrested Individuals have been identified as Monika Rahal (45) & Paramjit Singh (50), Residents of Zirakpur

CHANDIGARH: The Sector-17 Police Station in Chandigarh has apprehended a couple of Rahal Travels Immigration Consultant. The couple stands accused of orchestrating a fraudulent scheme that involved deceiving individuals out of 5.5 lakhs under the pretense of assisting them in obtaining Canada visas. The arrested individuals have been identified as Monika Rahal (45) and Paramjit Singh (50), residents of Zirakpur.

The Alleged fraudulent activities have sparked a rigorous interrogation by the police to uncover the details of the money scam. The case was brought to light by Surinder Kumar, a resident of Zirakpur, who approached Rahal Travels Immigration Consultants situated in Sector-17D in 2016 with the intent of applying for a work visa to Canada. Assured by Monika and Paramjit, the couple responsible for Rahal Travels, the victim paid an amount of five and a half lakhs in exchange for assistance in obtaining Canada's Permanent Residency (PR) under the trade certification program.

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Alongside the substantial sum of money, additional funds were also transferred to the accused. Despite the monetary transaction, no progress was observed over the course of two years. Frustrated by the lack of results, the complainant and his wife confronted the accused multiple times. When inquired about the PR deposit, the accused began to assert that the victim's case was within Canada's Entry Express pool and insinuated that the remaining amount was yet to be paid.

Notably, In a partial reimbursement, only two lakh rupees were returned to the complainant. The unreturned portion of the sum led the aggrieved parties to approach the police with their grievances. Consequently, based on the formal complaint, the Sector-17 police station initiated an investigation and filed a case of fraud against the implicated company and its employees. As the investigation progresses, the full extent of the alleged scam is being unraveled by the police.


California

The Bill Garnered 50 Votes in Favor and 3 Against

WASHINGTON: A significant stride towards combating caste-related discrimination has been taken in the United States as the California State Assembly overwhelmingly passed an anti-caste discrimination bill. This historic legislation aims to eradicate caste-based bias and safeguard marginalized communities within the state. The bill garnered 50 votes in favor and 3 against, underscoring the assembly's commitment to addressing this critical issue.

The legislation, which secured passage on Monday, now awaits the signature of California's governor, Gavin Newsom, before officially becoming law. Upon the governor's endorsement, California is poised to become the first state in the nation to incorporate race as a protected category under anti-discrimination statutes.

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Spearheaded by state senator Ayesha Wahab, the bill's introduction marked a pivotal moment in the fight against caste discrimination. It found strong support from a coalition of caste equality civil rights advocates and organizations across the country, reflecting the growing recognition of the urgent need to address this form of prejudice.

Expressing gratitude for the assembly's approval, Senator Wahab emphasized the significance of this legislation in dismantling systemic bias and fostering equality. Notable support for the bill came from Indian-American legislators Jasmeet Bains and Ash Kalra, who recognized the importance of promoting inclusivity and justice within the state.

In response to the bill's passage, the Ambedkar Association of North America (AANA), a prominent advocate for disadvantaged castes, hailed it as a "landmark," "historic," and "unprecedented" step towards combating caste-based discrimination. The AANA's endorsement underscores the transformative impact that the legislation is poised to have on marginalized communities.

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However, amidst the celebrations, differing perspectives on the bill's implications have emerged. The Coalition of Hindus of North America (COHNA) have expressed reservations, labeling the bill a "black day" in California's history. COHNA contends that the legislation is not balanced and unfairly targets Hindu Americans. Drawing parallels to unjust past enactments like the Asian Exclusion Act, COHNA raises concerns that such legislation, while seemingly well-intentioned, could inadvertently lead to the targeting of minority communities based on cultural or religious backgrounds. The passage of the anti-caste discrimination bill by the California State Assembly reflects the state's commitment to upholding principles of equality and social justice.
Consumer sentiment survey data from Germany is due on Tuesday, headlining a light day for the European economic news.

At 2.00 am ET, the market research GfK publishes Germany's consumer confidence survey data for September. The forward-looking sentiment index is forecast to rise to -24.3 from -24.4 in August.



In the meantime, Statistics Sweden is scheduled to issue final GDP data, retail sales and foreign trade figures.

At 2.45 am ET, France's statistical office INSEE is set to issue monthly consumer sentiment data for August. The consumer confidence index is seen unchanged at 85.0.

At 3.00 am ET, the Czech Statistical Office releases second estimate for GDP data. The statistical office is expected to confirm 0.1 percent sequential growth for the second quarter.

Also, retail sales data is due from Spain.



At 4.00 am ET, Austria's manufacturing Purchasing Managers' survey results are due.

At 8.00 am ET, Hungary's central bank announces its monetary policy decision. The bank is likely to hold its base rate at 13.00 percent.

For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com

Economic News

What parts of the world are seeing the best (and worst) economic performances lately? Click here to check out our Econ Scorecard and find out! See up-to-the-moment rankings for the best and worst performers in GDP, unemployment rate, inflation and much more.
French stocks advanced on Tuesday after a survey showed French consumer confidence stabilized in August, with a score of 85 points and meeting consensus estimates.

Hopes of further Chinese stimulus measures also underpinned investor sentiment ahead of a barrage of key economic readings due this week.

The benchmark CAC 40 was up 19 points, or 0.3 percent, at 7,343 after rallying 1.3 percent the previous day.

Euro zone bond yields slipped ahead of data on U.S. job openings that might provide additional clues on the Federal Reserve's rate trajectory.

Technip Energies N.V., an engineering and company, rose about 1 percent.

The company announced that it has been awarded a contract by bp for a hydrogen production unit at its Kwinana biorefinery in Western Australia for undisclosed sum.

For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com
The Russian occupiers are now studying Ukraine's energy facilities, looking for their vulnerabilities and the location of our air defense systems. They will analyze all of this in order to choose the best routes for missile launches as early as autumn 2023.

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This was reported by the Deputy head of the Main Directorate of intelligence of the Ministry of Defense, Major General Vadym Skibitsky in comments "RBC-Ukraine". At the same time expressed his belief that the enemy will not be able to carry out attacks on such a scale as in the fall and winter of 2022-2023.

According to him, the tactics and approach of the Russian Federation's strikes will depend on how methodically correct it is in identifying critical facilities for Ukraine. And for massive strikes, the aggressor country can probably use both missiles and kamikaze drones.

"It could be one or two or three strikes aimed at one object to finally destroy it. However, such massive ones as it was last October, November, December, when they fired 70-100 missiles at a time - most likely there will be no more," Skibitsky suggested.

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He stressed: the Russians now realize that they may not achieve their goal, but will only deplete their reserves, as they did last year.

For their part, the Ukrainian Air Defense Forces will do everything to protect our facilities, to detect preparations for strikes in time and, accordingly, to give recommendations to power engineers to prevent serious damage.

Earlier, Skibitsky said that Russia now has at least 585 missiles in its arsenal, which can be fired at a distance of more than half a thousand kilometers and which it most often uses to attack different regions of Ukraine. According to him, Russian attacks on Ukraine this summer were not so massive because the enemy is forced to save missiles in order to accumulate their stockpile.

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As reported by OBOZREVATEL, ISW analysts stressed that Russia has only slightly replenished its stockpile of precision missiles through conservation in the summer and may resume a broader campaign of strikes against Ukraine's critical infrastructure as early as the fall. But Russia's available number of missiles is probably not enough to launch massive attacks like those in the fall-winter of 2022-2023.

Only verified information from us in Telegram-channel Obozrevatel and Viber. Don't fall for fakes!
Chino Farm has one single, overarching priority: They grow for flavor, of which beauty is a natural byproduct. On a pristine 52-acre plot (45 are cultivated) in the middle of Rancho Santa Fe, the Chino family has quietly pioneered specialty farming in America since the 1970s. Photo Credit: Eric Wolfinger

I get a little shiver rounding the bend toward The Vegetable Shop at Chino Farm in Rancho Santa Fe. From the street, the farmstand looks like a weather-beaten shack. But stepping inside reveals a kaleidoscopic array of just- picked heirloom produce where everything tastes like the heightened, ultimate version of itself. Alice Watersthe Bay Area doyenne of cooking with local, seasonal, and organic producehas called Chino the most important farm in the country. Whenever I visit, the stand feels like one of the culinary wonders of the world.Arriving at sunrise, I am greeted by Tom Chino, the soft-spoken manager and the youngest of nine siblings born and raised on this family farm. As we shake hands, I feel all 70 years of fieldwork etched into his palms.

Tom Chino reviews the days tasks with his crew, most of whom have been working with him for more than 20 years Photo Credit: Eric Wolfinger

Not much going on today, he tells me. Youll probably get bored.Tom leads me behind the farmstand to the family compound. Shoes come off at the door to the kitchen, where he brews a pot of coffee for his crew. On the wall above the kettle, I glimpse a pantheon of my culinary heroes: Jacques Pepin, Julia Child, Alice Waters, and Yotam Ottolenghi (among others) have scribbled their homages to the Chino family in permanent marker.This will be the only outward sign I see of the rockstar status the farm has earned in the food world, and of the impact they have had on inspiring and modeling small-scale specialty farming in America. Tom only hints at this legacy when I ask what produce Alice Waters still buys for her restaurant in Berkeley. Shes a great friend, he says, but now she can get everything she needs from farms in the Bay Area.

Tom offers the first blackberry of the season Photo Credit: Eric Wolfinger

Tom motions me to follow him to a Shinto shrine in the far corner of the room. Its decorated with photos of his parents, who immigrated from Japan in 1920 and founded the farm in Rancho Santa Fe after first losing everything when they were forcibly relocated to a Japanese internment camp during World War II. Grit and self-reliance are written into the family DNA.Tom lights incense, rings a singing bowl, and bows in prayer. He gestures for me to do the same. We put our shoes back on, and the days work begins.Tom brings coffee to his field hands and delivers a summary of the days harvest and planting goals. The team disperses in beat-up pickups with their assignments. When I remark that its incredible that all 45 acres of crops are tended by Tom and six other men mostly in their 60s, Tom reminisces.

Chino Farm wall of fame features heartfelt messages from some of the culinary worlds biggest names Photo Credit: Eric Wolfinger

We used to have 10 to 15 full-time workers, and then another 10 apprentices from Japan at any given time, he says. Covid killed the internship program, and no field hand can make rent within an hour of this farm.As a result, he continues, Were not producing the variety that we used to. This year were only growing 80 varieties of tomato, down from 120. Toms pained expression reveals his disappointment. Perhaps he worries he is somehow letting his parents down.After WWII, Toms folks were determined to build a real farm, which, at the time, meant growing a handful of crops in large volumes to sell to wholesale distributors. As it became clear that their 45 acres of produce could not compete with massive commercial operations, they experimented with a farmstand model in 1969, selling corn and tomatoes to locals. It clicked.

Junzo and Hatsuyo Chino founded their farm in what was then a rural expanseof fields near Del Mar in the late 1940s. They raised nine children on the property. Today three of their sons, including the youngest, Tom (pictured right), continue their agrarian legacy. Photo Credit: Eric Wolfinger

Tom worked at the farm from childhood through college, but when his parents fell ill a few years later, he cut short a promising career as a biotech researcher at the Salk Institute to return to the farm full-time. He doubled down on their farmstand vision by experimenting with a dazzling variety of produce and modernizing some farm practices.After a little prodding, he tells me that one of his innovations was calculating the sun hours that each vegetable needed to ripen so he can tellpractically to the daywhen a crop will be ready. (Chino Farm is never short on sweet corn for the 4th of July weekend.) Tom is equal parts researcher and tinkerer, and he finds joy in constantly experimenting with new seeds.

During the height of summer, the field crew works seven days a week, while the farmstand only opens for five. There are two days without harvest to give the crops a chance to ripen for the next week. Photo Credit: Eric Wolfinger

The thing that really matters is that we grow for flavor above all else, he says. I watch two field hands walk rows of heirloom cucumbers and summer squash, picking the vegetables when they are much smaller and more tender than what Im accustomed to buying off grocery shelves. Tomatoes and strawberries are plucked only when they are practically bursting at the seams with natural sugar. Afterall, the produce harvested here must only withstand the hundred-yard trip from field to farmstand, not a thousand miles under refrigeration.Small wonder the Chinos are so revered by great chefsthey grow the kind of food thats worth a special journey.

A dense carpet of weeds is left intact to help the soil retain moisture, but they can make harvest slow-going Photo Credit: Eric Wolfinger

Tom Chino. Farmer, savant, dutiful son. Photo Credit: Eric Wolfinger

Chino Farms Rancho Santa Fe San Diego 2023 Vegetable Shop Photo Credit: Eric Wolfinger

This farmstand salad features Chinos bitter greens, edible succulents, guava flowers, and strawberries, plus a creamy herb vinaigrette Photo Credit: Eric Wolfinger
Chef Claudette Zepeda and Antonia Lofaso VAGA Del Mar Wine + Food Festival 2023 San Diego

Del Mar Wine + Food Festival: Thursday, September 7

Raw Bar + Seafood Lunch with Chefs Drew Deckman and Jackson Kalb

1-3 p.m. | Pacific Coast Grill | TICKETS: $200Two of the regions top chefsDrew Deckman (Deckmans En El Mogor) and Jackson Kalb (Top Chef, Jame Enoteca, Ospi)team with PCG exec chef Izzy Balderas to create the ultimate raw bar and seafood lunch overlooking the surf in Cardiff. There will be three stations, both with raw and cooked elements, including:

Station 1: Drew Deckman

Raw: Oysters from Baja California (Kumiai, Pai Pai, Chingon) with a selection of mignonettes

Boatique Winery, Brut NV Sonoma

Cooked: Duo of Geoduck (raw and tempura) with wakame pesto, fermented habanero

2022 Hans Wirsching Iphofer Silvaner

Station 2: Chef Jackson Kalb

Raw: Rockfish crudo Siciliana, colatura, latte de tigre, caramelized olive, crispy caper

2013 Karthauserhof Schieferkristall Trocken Riesling

Cooked: Spicy prawn, fermented chili lacquer, herbs, zucchini remoulade

2021 Pfeffingen Blanc de Noir

Station 3: Chef Izzy Balderas

Raw: Torched yellowtail tiradito over shishito pepper aioli, crispy wonton shreds, chili oil, micro shisho

Boatique Winery Chardonnay, Baccigalupi Vineyard, Russian River Valley 2022

Cooked: Pacific paella with grilled lobster tail, mahi, clams, scallops, shrimp and saffron arborio rice

Boatique Winery, Pinot Noir, Walaa Vineyard, Sonoma Coast 2021

Chateau Montelena + Rare Society Dinner

6-9 p.m. | Rare Society Solana Beach | TICKETS: $585A rare experience for steak and wine fans. Chef Brad Wise is creating a four-course meal to be paired with legendary wines from Chateau Montelena. Montelena is the famed winery who won the Judgment of Paris, where the Napa winery bested the top French wines in a blind taste test (they eventually made a feature film out of it called Bottle Shock). DMWFF co-founder Ernie Hahn is part of that story. His grandfather was one of the founders. So San Diego has a tie to one of the biggest moments in U.S. wine history, and this dinner tips a hat to that.

The Menu

Course One

Seafood Royale featuring golden osetra caviar with buckwheat blini, Pacific oyster with pickled onion mignonette, bluefin tuna with black garlic glaze, negi.

Chateau Montelena Sauvignon Blanc 2022

Course Two

Embered Scallops with Rare Society bacon, creamless creamed corn, fava beans, mushroom.

Chateau Montelena Chardonnay 2020

Course Three

American Wagyu NY Strip with potato aligote, embered shishito relish, pickled asparagus, black truffle bearnaise.

Two Chateau Montelena Estate Cabernets2018 and 2006

Dessert Course

Malted chocolate cake, vanilla bean ice cream, chocolate ganache.

Chateau Montelena Zinfandel, 2019

David Arthur Wine-Paired Dinner

6 p.m. | Pamplemousse Grille | TICKETS: $690Have dinner with one of Californias most iconic winemakers. David Arthur is personally bringing ten of his most famous wines to Pamplemousse Grille. And chef Jeffrey Straussthe renowned chef whos cooked for all of San Diego, and also Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, Prince Charles, Hillary Clinton and Sir Elton Johnwill create a four-course feast plus snacks to pair with them all.

The Menu

Appetizers

Tiny Kobe burgers with truffle cheese; tempura rock shrimp with plum wine sauce; mini duck tacos with hoisin and porcini mushroom shu mai.

2022 David Arthur Annalyce Rose, 2022 David Arthur Quatrro Bianchi, 2018 David Arthur Propriety Red (6L)

Course One

Acorn squash filled with lobster ragout, shrimp, scallop, jumbo lump crab, leek fondue and Champagne glacage with a lobster puff pastry.

2020 David Arthur Chardonnay, 2021 David Arthur Chardonnay

Course Two

Fig and goat cheese-stuffed quail, pork belly and bean medley, cherry balsamic reduction.

1991 David Arthur Cabernet (6L)First Vintage; 1999 David Arthur 1147 (6L)

Course Three

Roast rack and herbed loin of lamb with potato and truffle tartare, golden beet fondant, lamb-and-thyme jus.

2002 David Arthur Elevation 1147 (6L); 2008 David Arthur Elevation 1147 (6L)

Dessert Course

Trio of desserts including warm chocolate caramel cake, chocolate espresso creme brulee, and mini chocolate peanut butter bombe with melange of berries.

2018 Brielle Late Harvest Sauvignon Blanc

Aaron May WhistlePig Whiskey-Paired Dinner

6:30-9:30 p.m. | Monarch Ocean Pub | TICKETS: $200Theres a reason Aaron May is in Arizonas Culinary Hall of Fame. Most know him from Food Network (Best Thing I Ever Ate, Guys Grocery Games), but hes a classically trained chef whos with some of foods biggest names (Douglas Rodriguez, Mario Batali). He and Monarch chef Craig Jimenez will create a seven-course WhistlePig whiskey-paired feast. It starts with a mushroom terrine with butter-basted king trumpets, winds its way up through the pleasure spectrum, and finishes with a peanut butter mousse and dark chocolate Del Mar silk pie. The only thing prettier should be the sunset.

The Menu (pairings TBD)

Course 1

Mushroom terrine with butter-basted trumpet king mushroom

Course 2

Bluefin toro, passionfruit acid, yellow watermelon, buzz button furikake, pyrolyzed A5 Wagyu fat

Course 3

Salmon and white soy ceviche with chive and sweet 100 tomato

Course 4

Stuffed chicken wing yakitori, aromatic rice, summer peach WhistlePig tare, bincho wisps, smoked salt

Course 5

Smoked Bone Marrow, Kurobuta Carbonara Ragu Bucatini. Yuzu. Peas. Mint

Course 6

Beef tallow and bourbon cured Brandt Beef ribeye with potato pave and bacon creamed poblanos

Course 7

Peanut butter mousse and dark chocolate Del Mar silk pie

Mille Fleurs 1er Cru Burgundy Dinner

6:30 p.m. | Mille Fleurs | TICKETS: $575Mille Fleur owner Bertrand Hug is one of the most accomplished French restaurateurs in San Diego history. And, damn does he know his French wine. For this dinner at his Rancho Santa Fe spot, hes pulling out three 1er Cru wines from his vaultChassagne Montrachet 2019 1er Cru, Puligny Montrachet 2019 1er Cru, Nuits St Georges 1er Cru 2017, plus a Vintage Port 2017 Dowsand pairing it with a four-course feast (amuse bouche, appetizer, fish course, venison course, and dessert). The menu and wines will be curated by chef Brandon Jennings & maitre d Marco Dedic.

Meet the New Michelin Star: Tequila Reserva de la Familia and Adobe Guadalupe Dinner at Valle

6:30-10 p.m. | Valle | TICKETS: $360The ultimate experience at San Diegos newest Michelin-star restaurantValle. Chef Roberto Alcocer will be joined by Eduardo Morali of Pangea Restaurant (No. 34 on the 50 Best Restaurants in Latin America) to cook a six-course feast paired with Tequila Reserva de la Familia and Adobe Guadalupe Wine-Paired Dinner. Three courses will be served with wine, three with tequila. Everything takes place in Valles oceanfront dining room.

Chef Claudette Zepeda and chef Antonia Lofaso Host a Kosta Browne Wine-Paired Dinner

6:30 p.m. | VAGA | TICKETS: $210-$270Award-winning chef Claudette Zepeda (Top Chef, Food Network) joins forces with celebrity chef and restaurateur Antonia Lofaso (Top Chef, Beachside Brawl, Tournament of Champions) for a Kosta Browne wine-paired dinner. The event will take place at Vaga within the Alila Marea Beach Resort with a special multi-course menu paired with 2021 Kosta Browne One Sixteen Chardonnay, 2021 Kosta Browne Sta. Rita Hills pinot noir, 2017 Kosta Browne Cerise Vineyard pinot noir, and 2019 Kosta Browne Gaps Crown pinot noir (en MAGNUM). Welcome cocktails and bites start at 6: 30 p.m.; seating starts at 7 p.m.Interested in attending Saturday and Sundays Grand Tasting events? Check out the two-day passes starting at $325 per person. For more information on the biggest food and drink event in San Diego, visit the official website.
College Prep Middle School Board President Corey Meitchik hands over a gold-plated shovel to school co-founder Mitchell Miller at the schools Spring Valley groundbreaking last week.

College Preparatory Middle School, a high-performing public charter school in La Mesa, broke ground last week on its new home in Spring Valley.

The school for kids in grades 5-8 was in litigation for years with the La Mesa-Spring Valley School District, which fought the school that operated in the basement of a church on Jackson Drive.

This is the future of our sweet little school, our own brick-and-mortar building, thanks to hard work, grit and tenacity  and our stick-to-itiveness, said school co-founder Christina Callaway at a ceremony on the schools property near Casa de Oro.

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The school will be built on just over 2.5 acres at 10269 Madrid Way at a cost of nearly $7 million. College Prep has been around since 2010 but has been making plans since 2013 to move to Spring Valley. The public school started with 87 students, but now has 240, with more than 130 on a waiting list.

It hopes to accommodate about 500 students by the 2022-23 school year.

At the event, College Prep Board President Corey Meitchik presented school co-founder Mitch Miller with a gold-plated shovel with CPMS and a cartoon tiger (the schools mascot) emblazoned on it to mark the event.

This has been a long, laborious process, Meitchik said.The vision of Mitch and Chris has been for the youths and families in East County, to provide a strong education. The board has said it before  their drive, dedication and determination made this happen.

About 50 people attended the groundbreaking for the state-of-the-art building. It will be under the planning of R&R Construction Co. out of San Marcos.

The schools home since 2010 has been in the basement of the La Mesa Church of Christ on Jackson Drive in La Mesa. It is newly under the sponsorship of the California Board of Education.

Up until this year, it was under the auspices of the Mountain Empire Union School District. Mountain Empire will continue to oversee College Preps recently opened second campus in rural Campo.

The state board will oversee the charter from July 1, 2018, through June 30, 2023, taking responsibility to ensure College Prep meets academic, operational and financial standards.

College Prep had been trying for years to find local backing. Its charter was rejected and the school unsuccessfully sued by La Mesa-Spring Valley, which alleged it misrepresented its enrollment growth and financing for the new campus.

Its charter was also nixed by the San Diego County Board of Education. Without the states approval, College Prep would have had to close. College Prep is the 31st school under state Board of Education authority.

College Prep students have been among the highest performers from all schools in San Diego County, according to API and other statewide testing measures.

Construction is expected to take about seven to eight months, in hopes the school might open in early 2019. The school will stay housed in La Mesa until the Spring Valley campus is ready.

karen.pearlman@sduniontribune.com
The United States has announced a new military aid package for Ukraine. It will include weapons and ammunition worth $250 million.

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This is stated in a statement by US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken, published on the website of the US Department of State. This time, the United States will donate to our army

- ammunition for 155 mm and 105 mm artillery,

- ammunition for HIMARS,

- AIM-9M air defence missiles,

- Javelin portable anti-tank systems,

- equipment for mine clearance,

- medical evacuation vehicles, etc.

"Russia started this war and can end it at any time by withdrawing its troops from Ukraine and stopping its brutal attacks. Until that happens, the United States, our allies and partners will stand with Ukraine for as long as it takes," Blinken said.

The Wall Street Journal reported that the administration of US President Joe Biden and European allies are developing plans for long-term military assistance to Ukraine. This is to ensure that Russia cannot win on the battlefield. Such assistance will also help convince the Kremlin that Western support for Kyiv will not weaken.

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As reported by OBOZREVATEL:

- Germany has approached Greece with a proposal to give Ukraine 100 Greek Leopard 1A5 tanks, which are currently in service. The transfer of tanks may take place under a trilateral agreement, according to which Greece will receive upgraded armoured vehicles;

- Defence Minister Oleksiy Reznikov suggested that modern F-16 fighters could strengthen the Ukrainian Air Force in the spring of 2024. The training of our aviators will take some time. We also need to prepare the infrastructure for the use of the new aircraft, which may take at least six months.

Only verified information is available on our Obozrevatel Telegram channel, Threads and Viber. Don't fall for fakes!
In Germany, a German-Russian citizen, Waldemar V., illegally supplied electronic parts to a Russian company engaged in the production of military materials and components. A federal court in Germany has already issued a warrant for his arrest and imposed a custodial measure of restraint.

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According to the website of the German Prosecutor General, the accused committed several commercial violations of the Foreign Trade and Payments Act. In particular, the investigation is aware of 26 deliveries in the period from January 2020 to March 2023 worth about EUR 715,000.

It is noted that the Russian company that received the parts is engaged in the production of Orlan-10 drones, which are currently used by the Russian armed forces in Ukraine. The components supplied to the defendant are a common part of drones of this type and fall under the scope of the Russia Embargo Regulation (EU) No. 833/2014.

To circumvent the EU sanctions, Waldemar W. typically imported the relevant goods from abroad into Germany and then exported them to Russia - in some cases through a company in Baden-Wurttemberg that he controlled.

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The President's Office reported that an international working group on sanctions against Russia had examined 174 foreign components seized from three models of Russian UAVs. The vast majority of the components were imported, while important chips were manufactured in NATO countries and by Ukraine's allies.

In particular, the Russian army regularly uses three main models of drones: Shahed-136/131, Lancet and Orlan-10. At the same time, Russia still relies heavily on foreign-made components, including microelectronics, in the production of UAVs.

As reported by OBOZREVATEL:

- Russian billionaire Arkady Volozh, co-founder of Yandex, has asked the EU to lift the sanctions imposed on him after the start of Russia's full-scale war against Ukraine. The businessman's lawyers filed an official request to lift the sanctions a few days after he publicly condemned the invasion.

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- Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto echoed Russian propaganda and said that the EU was harming itself by imposing sanctions on Russia. While the restrictions allegedly did not harm the aggressor. He also once again spoke out against supporting Ukraine.

Only verified information is available on our Obozrevatel Telegram channel, Threads and Viber. Don't fall for fakes!
In order to continue its insidious policy, the Armenian side is once again spreading false and deceitful statements by distorting information about the situation in the region, Azernews reports, citing the Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry.

Dissemination of allegations about kidnapping of three Armenian citizens, who were detained at the Lachin border checkpoint on August 28, following a criminal case opened in line with Azerbaijani legislation for incitement of ethnic and racial enmity, as well as insulting the national flag of Azerbaijan, along with questioning the legitimacy by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Armenia of the checkpoint established on the sovereign territory of Azerbaijan, demonstrates that Armenia does not respect its international obligations.

With this, we would like to remind the Armenian side, which claims that Azerbaijan violated the decisions of the International Court of Justice, that there is a courts decision to prevent acts of hatred on ethnic and racial grounds, and instead of preventing these acts, Armenia delivers statements against Azerbaijan, which counters such acts.

Notwithstanding the secession of the criminal prosecution by Azerbaijan against the mentioned three persons based on the principle of humanism, and taking into account their age, and expressed regret sincerely admitting their actions, the fact that the Armenian side is trying to cover up the committed crimes and accusing Azerbaijan of ethnic cleansing indicates the true intention of this country.

It is impossible to find more absurd idea than accusation against Azerbaijan in aggression by Armenia, which occupied the territories of Azerbaijan for nearly 30 years, expelled Azerbaijanis from these territories and from the territory of present-day Armenia, carried out ethnic cleansing, and currently does not fully withdraw its armed forces from the territory of Azerbaijan, contrary to all its obligations, while encouraging separatism.

We once again would like to remind the Armenian side that its policy of aggression promoted in the region will not have any practical results, and it would be more useful for Armenia to support Azerbaijan's initiatives to establish peace.
The NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope has taken a detailed image of the surroundings of the spectacular protostellar object OH 339.88-1.26.

OH 339.88-1.26, otherwise known as IRAS 16484-4603, is located approximately 8,900 light-years away from Earth in the constellation of Ara.

Winding lanes of dark dust thread through this image, which is also studded with bright stars crowned with criss-crossing diffraction spikes, Hubble astronomers said.

The dark vertical streak at the center of the image hides OH 339.88-1.26, which is an astrophysical maser.

A maser  which is an acronym for microwave amplification by stimulated emission of radiation  is essentially a laser that produces coherent light at microwave wavelengths, they explained.

Such objects can occur naturally in astrophysical situations, in environments ranging from the north pole of Jupiter to star-forming regions such as the one pictured here.

This new image of OH 339.88-1.26 was taken in the infrared region of the spectrum with Hubbles Wide Field Camera 3 (WFC3).

The image comes from a set of Hubble observations that peer into the hearts of regions where massive stars are born to constrain the nature of massive protostars and test theories of their formation.

Four filters were used to sample various infrared wavelengths. The color results from assigning different hues to each monochromatic image associated with an individual filter.

We turned to the WFC3 instrument to explore five intermediate-mass protostars at infrared wavelengths, the astronomers said.

The Hubble observations were supported by other state-of-the-art observatories including the Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array (ALMA).

ALMA is composed of 66 moveable high-precision antennas which can be arranged over distances of up to 16 km on a plateau perched high in the Chilean Andes.

Further data were contributed by NASAs Stratospheric Observatory For Infrared Astronomy (SOFIA), which is a telescope that  until recently  operated out of a converted 747 aircraft.
This portrait of the interacting grand design spiral galaxy Messier 51 is a composite image that integrates data from the Near-InfraRed Camera (NIRCam) and the Mid-InfraRed Instrument (MIRI) on the NASA/ESA/CSA James Webb Space Telescope.

Messier 51 is located approximately 27 million light-years away in the constellation of Canes Venatici.

Also known as M51, the Whirlpool Galaxy, the Question Mark Galaxy, NGC 5194, Arp 85, and LEDA 47404, the galaxy has a diameter of 77,000 light-years.

Messier 51 was discovered on October 13, 1773 by the French astronomer Charles Messier while hunting for objects that could confuse comet hunters.

It has an apparent magnitude of 8.4 and can be spotted with a small telescope most easily during May.

Astronomers think that Messier 51s arms are particularly prominent because of the effects of a close encounter with the dwarf galaxy NGC 5195.

The compact galaxy appears to be tugging on the arm, the tidal forces from which trigger new star formation.

The interaction between these two galaxies has made these galactic neighbors one of the better-studied galaxy pairs in the night sky, Webb astronomers said.

The gravitational influence of Messier 51s smaller companion is thought to be partially responsible for the stately nature of the galaxys prominent and distinct spiral arms.

In the new Webb image, the dark red regions trace the filamentary warm dust permeating the medium of Messier 51.

The red regions show the reprocessed light from complex molecules forming on dust grains, while colors of orange and yellow reveal the regions of ionized gas by the recently formed star clusters, the astronomers said.

Stellar feedback has a dramatic effect on the medium of the galaxy and create complex network of bright knots as well as cavernous black bubbles.

This Webb observation of Messier 51 is one of a series of observations collectively titled Feedback in Emerging extrAgalactic Star clusTers (FEAST).

The FEAST observations were designed to shed light on the interplay between stellar feedback and star formation in environments outside of our own Galaxy, the Milky Way, the researchers said.

Stellar feedback is the term used to describe the outpouring of energy from stars into the environments which form them, and is a crucial process in determining the rates at which stars form.

Understanding stellar feedback is vital to building accurate universal models of star formation.

The aim of the FEAST observations is to discover and study stellar nurseries in galaxies beyond the Milky Way.
Paleontologists from Yunnan University, the University of Leicester and the Natural History Museum, London have conducted a microtomographic study of new specimens of the Early Cambrian shrimp-like arthropod Kylinxia zhangi.

Kylinxia zhangi swam in the Early Cambrian seas, approximately 518 million years ago

First described in 2020, the ancient arthropod was about 5 cm (2 inches) long and about 1.2 cm (0.5 inches) wide.

Kylinxia zhangi was part of the Chengjiang biota of Chinas Yunnan Province, from which over 250 species of exceptionally preserved fossil organisms have been described.

The size of a large shrimp, its surprising features include three eyes on the head and a pair of fearsome limbs presumably used to catch prey.

Kylinxia zhangi occupies a pivotal position in arthropod evolution, branching from the euarthropod stem lineage between radiodonts (Anomalocaris and relatives) and great-appendage arthropods, said University of Leicester Ph.D. student Robert OFlynn and colleagues.

Its combination of appendage and exoskeletal features is viewed as uniquely bridging the morphologies of so-called lower and upper stem-group euarthropods.

In their research, OFlynn and co-authors examined several new specimens of Kylinxia zhangi.

Because the new material is preserved nearly complete, they were able to image the animals head, identifying six segments: the front one bearing eyes, the second with a pair of large grasping limbs, and the other four each bearing a pair of jointed limbs.

The preservation of the fossil animal is amazing, OFlynn said.

After CT-scanning we can digitally turn it around and literally stare into the face of something that was alive over 500 million years ago.

As we spun the animal around, we could see that its head possesses six segments, just as in many living arthropods.

Kylinxia zhangi, and the Chengjiang biota whence it came, are instrumental to building our understanding of early euarthropod evolution, said University of Leicesters Professor Mark Williams.

We were examining the micro-CT data in the hope of refining and correcting previous interpretation of head structures in this genus, Kylinxia, said Yunnan Universitys Professor Yu Liu.

Amazingly, we found that its head is composed of six segments, as in, e.g., insects.

Most of our theories on how the head of arthropods evolved were based on these early-branching species having fewer segments than living species, said Dr. Greg Edgecombe, a paleontologist at Yunnan University and the Natural History Museum, London.

Discovering two previously undetected pairs of legs in Kylinxia zhangi suggests that living arthropods inherited a six-segmented head from an ancestor at least 518 million years ago.

The teams results appear in the journal Current Biology.

_____

Robert J. OFlynn et al. The early Cambrian Kylinxia zhangi and evolution of the arthropod head. Current Biology, published online August 28, 2023; doi: 10.1016/j.cub.2023.08.022
Parents want effective mental health interventions.

The passing of MI SB0227 would improve mental health care for Michigan's children.

Center for Health and Research Transformation

Genesee Health System

Mental Health Foundation of West Michigan

North Country CMH

Northern Lakes CMH Authority

OnPoint

Sanilac County CMH

St. Clair County CMH
Distribution specialist Bunzl on Tuesday upgraded guidance for annual adjusted operating profits as it reported a rise in half-year earnings.

The company reported interim pre-tax profit of 317m, up 6.9%, with revenue up 4.5% to 5.9bn.

We now expect adjusted operating profit to be moderately higher than in 2022 at constant exchange rates, with operating margin remaining strong and moderately higher than that achieved in the prior year.

Inflationary pressures across Europe and the UK were still evident, Bunzl said, but it had managed to pass on high raw material costs to customers through price hikes. US freight costs fell, wage growth slowed and overall inflation eased.

"Inflation easing in the US is a double-edged sword. On the one hand, lower input costs have helped margins push higher over the half, but the flip side is a drop in revenue as the pricing on a lot of Bunzls products can be linked to inflation," said Hargreaves Lansdown analyst Matt Britzman.

"Add in a drop in COVID-related sales and the underlying business is seeing a bit of weakness creep in, comparable periods are tough though. Aside from lower costs, margins also got a bump from consumers shifting to own-brand products in response to ongoing pressures on income."

Bunzl also announced it had signed an agreement to buy a business in Poland, and one in the Netherlands for an undisclosed sum.

Reporting by Frank Prenesti for Sharecast.com
Reliance has cumulatively invested more than $150 billion in the last 10 years - higher than any other corporate house in India and comparable to the leading businesses across the world, Mukesh Ambani, Chairman and Managing Director, Reliance Industries Limited, said in his address at the 46th AGM of the company. In all humility, I would like to say that the new Reliance has been a forerunner of the emerging new India. With soaring ambition, we have set seemingly impossible goals and achieved them, Ambani said.

"The best way to describe this new Reliance is that we have now become a new-age technology company with distinctive capabilities. Today we are a net producer of technology, large-scale deployer of technology, as well as a democratiser of technology," he said.

Ambani added: "What is true about Reliance is equally true about scores of other Indian enterprises, leading corporates as well as start-ups. I hugely admire their brilliant achievements. They too have made India proud by enhancing our nations fame globally with their spectacular growth, commitment to quality and passion for innovation.
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STATEN ISLAND, N.Y.  Thankfully no one was killed when shots rang out last year on a commercial strip in New Brighton.

Nonetheless, an 18-year-old defendant will face the consequences for his role in the incident.

Elijah Jamison of Queens pleaded guilty last week in state Supreme Court, St. George to second-degree criminal possession of a weapon in connection with the Aug. 4, 2022 gun incident on Jersey Street. He initially was facing a charge of second-degree attempted murder.

In exchange for his plea, hes scheduled to be sentenced in front of Justice Lisa Grey Oct. 4 to four years prison followed by four years post release supervision.

Acting alongside an unidentified gunman, authorities say Jamison fired multiple shots toward two separate individuals on the 400 block of Jersey Street. Somehow no one was injured in the chaos. The block is territory of the 400 gang, according to prior reports, though its unclear if gang activity played a role in the shooting.

The defendants attorney, Mario Gallucci, said his client recognized the impact gun violence had on his life and accepted responsibility and a punishment.

Although we are in an adversarial system, the proliferation of youth gun violence in New York is disturbing, Gallucci continued. (Jamison) is also going to use his time to not only contemplate his future but work on those things necessary to have a great productive start once released

Using video surveillance, NYPD investigators tracked down the defendants movements from West Brighton to Jersey Street, then back again to West Brighton where he and his co-defendant had parked their cars on a dead end street, officials said last week.

The defendant was arrested two weeks later in Brooklyn with a loaded .22-caliber firearm that matched the shell casings recovered at the scene.

With the help of our incredible partners in the NYPD, yet another illegal gun and dangerous actor was taken off of our streets, said District Attorney Michael E. McMahon in a written statement following the guilty plea Thursday. Gun violence has no place on Staten Island and we commend Assistant District Attorney, and Chief of our offices Guns & Gangs Unit, Kate Malloy for her tireless efforts to ensure justice was served in this case and Staten Island was rid of another illegal firearm.



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STATEN ISLAND, N.Y.  Authorities allege that a 31-year-old is responsible for a violent series of events over the spring and summer that include the robbery and beatdown of a worker at a gas station, unrelated assaults against a second man, and a separate case of credit-card fraud.

Joseph Romania of King Street in Eltingville allegedly escalated shoplifting to robbery at the Mobile gas station at 231 Bay St. at Hannah Street in Tompkinsville at 7:30 a.m. on June 30, according to the criminal complaint and police.

Romania allegedly removed various items from the shelves without paying for them. When an employee asked for payment, Romania refused and instead punched the worker several times in the chest before fleeing, the complaint alleges.

The suspect has been charged with robbery, assault, petit larceny, criminal possession of stolen property and harassment in that matter.

On the morning of June 5, Romania allegedly send frightening text message including using a racial slur as he threatened bodily harm and death to a man and his family in New Dorp, according to the complaint.

Im coming to stab you in your f-----g neck, are among the threats listed in the criminal complaint that the suspect allegedly made on a voicemail left for the victim. Do you understand me you little rat n-----?

The victim subsequently obtained a temporary order of protection against Romania, but that did not prevent the suspect from allegedly beating the victim at an apartment in Port Richmond on July 3. The suspect shattered a window to enter the apartment in the afternoon and then in the evening confronted the victim at the same location, the complaint alleges.

I am going to kill you, the complaint quotes Romania as saying. I am going to f--- you up.

The suspect then allegedly punched the victim in the face and ribs, causing substantial pain. The suspect also allegedly was caught inside the apartment on the afternoon of July 4.

In connection with these incidents, Romania has been charged with criminal contempt, burglary, aggravated criminal contempt, assault, criminal mischief, criminal trespass, aggravated harassment and harassment.

The complaint also alleges that Romania stole a credit card from a woman on the afternoon of June 10 around noon on the 100 block of Jewett Avenue near Castleton Avenue.

Less than an hour later, the suspect attempted to use the card inside a deli on Castleton Avenue in West Brighton, the complaint alleges.

He has been charged with grand larceny, criminal possession of stolen property and petit larceny for the credit-card incident.

Romania has pleaded not guilty to all charges.

He is being held at Rikers Island in lieu of bond set at $300,004/$100,004. He is due back in Criminal Court on Sept. 8, according to public records.

An attorney for the defendant did not immediately respond to a request for comment.



OTHER STATEN ISLAND NEWS:

>> Horrific discovery of partial human remains by animal on Staten Island: Sources

>> NYPD: 3 arrested in protests at planned migrant shelter at Staten Island school; roads blocked

>> Alleged car thieves jumped from Verrazzano to Fort Wadsworth in dramatic escape bid: Sources

>> NYPD seeks tips in knife-point robbery at business on Staten Island

>> Source: Woman suffers life-threatening injuries in fire at apartment building on Staten Island

>> Crash at The Boulevard mall on Staten Island damages multiple cars, sends vehicle up against storefront
UPDATE: Antoinette Cirillo has been located and is safe, according to the NYPD.



STATEN ISLAND, N.Y.  The NYPD is asking for the publics help in their search for an Annadale woman who was reported missing.

Antoinette Cirillo, 67, was last seen Sunday at around 8:30 p.m. leaving her home on Forrestal Avenue, according to a statement from the NYPDs Deputy Commissioner of Public Information.

Police describe Cirillo as standing approximately 5 feet, 1 inch tall and weighing about 220 pounds. She has blue eyes and blond hair and was last seen wearing a beige tank top, black leggings and black sandals.

Anyone with information in regard to this incident is asked to call the NYPDs Crime Stoppers Hotline at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477) or for Spanish, 1-888-57-PISTA (74782). The public can also submit their tips by logging onto the CrimeStoppers website at https://crimestoppers.nypdonline.org/, or on Twitter @NYPDTips.

All calls are strictly confidential.
An Australian doctor investigating a patients mysteriously-lingering health issues discovered a shocking find: A parasite lurking in the 64-year-old womans skull.

The worm was the larva of an Australian native roundworm, called Ophidascaris robertsi, that is typically found in carpet pythons. However, a surgery team at Canberra Hospital last year found the 3-inch long parasite still wriggling during a biopsy of the patients brain.

I just thought: What is that? It doesnt make any sense. But its alive and moving, surgeon Hari Priya Bandi told The Canberra Times newspaper. It continued to move with vigor. We all felt a bit sick.

The woman had been admitted after experiencing forgetfulness and depression over a 90-day period. Brain scans showed changes but did not immediately identify the cause. A year earlier, the woman was brought to the hospital after experiencing abdominal pain, night sweats and diarrhea.

An article detailing the womans case was published in the journal Emerging Infectious Diseases.

While it is not entirely clear, the researchers involved in her case said her proximity to a lake inhabited by carpet pythons could be the cause of the parasitic infection. She often collected vegetation to use in cooking, and it is believed she could have inadvertently consumed eggs of the parasite.

After the parasite was removed, the doctors said no other worms were discovered in her skull. Six months after the surgery, the womans symptoms have improved.

Shes done OK, but obviously because this is a new infection, were keeping a close eye on her, Sanjaya Senanayake, an infectious diseases physician and co-author of the case study, told Ten Network television.

Associated Press materials were used in this report.
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- As New York City continues to be inundated with thousands of migrants, many of whom are actively seeking asylum in the United States, some may be wondering how exactly the countrys asylum system operates.

In the past year, New York City has seen an influx of more than 100,000 asylum seekers, nearly 60,000 of whom remain in city care, with officials scrambling to provide shelter and support.

But what exactly is asylum? And how does one go about obtaining it in the United States?

Asylum is a form of legal protection granted to migrants fleeing persecution, or fear of persecution, based on race, religion, nationality, political opinion or membership in a particular social group.

Upon being granted asylum, a person is protected from being returned to their home country, can apply for a Social Security card, is authorized to work legally, can request permission to travel internationally and can petition to bring family members to the United States.

Asylees can apply for lawful permanent resident status, commonly referred to as a Green Card, one year after being granted asylum. Four years after receiving their Green Card, they can apply for U.S. citizenship.

There are three ways to obtain asylum in the United States: the affirmative process, the defensive process and through an Asylum Merits Interview after a positive credible fear determination.

All three processes require the asylum seeker to be physically present in the United States or at a port of entry.

In all scenarios, asylum seekers are thoroughly vetted through extensive background checks into prior criminal history, potential fraud, foreign activity and links to any organizations that may be a threat to the United States.

Heres a look at how the three processes work.

AFFIRMATIVE PROCESS

Migrants may apply for affirmative asylum by submitting Form I-589, Application for Asylum and for Withholding of Removal, to the United States Citizen and Immigration Services (USCIS).

Applications must be submitted within one year of arriving in the country, unless the applicant can show:

Changed circumstances that materially affect their eligibility for asylum or extraordinary circumstances relating to the delay in filing; and

They filed within a reasonable amount of time given those circumstances.

There is no monetary fee associated with applying for asylum.

After submitting the application, asylum seekers will appear before a USCIS asylum officer for an affirmative asylum interview, during which they are generally required to provide their own interpreter.

DEFENSIVE PROCESS

Migrants may seek asylum through the defensive process if they are in removal proceedings in immigration court with the Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR).

This generally occurs in one of two ways:

They were referred to an immigration judge by USCIS after they have been determined to be ineligible for asylum at the end of the affirmative asylum process.

They were apprehended in the United States or at a U.S. port of entry without proper legal documents or in violation of their immigration status.

Defensive asylum cases are heard by immigration judges in courtroom-like proceedings, with the judge hearing arguments from both the asylum seeker and the U.S. government, which is represented by an attorney from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

The immigration judge then decides whether you are eligible for asylum. If the immigration judge finds you eligible, they will grant asylum. If the immigration judge finds you ineligible for asylum, they will determine whether you are eligible for any other forms of relief from removal. If the immigration judge finds you ineligible for other forms of relief, they will order you to be removed from the United States. Either party can appeal the immigration judges decision, according to the USCIS.

ASYLUM MERITS INTERVIEW

Those placed in the expedited removal proceedings, meaning they face imminent deportation, who express fear of persecution or torture if theyre returned to their home country, are referred to the USCIS for a Credible Fear Screening.

If the applicant is deemed to have credible fear of persecution or torture, an asylum officer will either retain their application for asylum and place them in an Asylum Merits Interview to see if theyre eligible or issue a notice to appear in front of an immigration judge, which places them in the defensive process.

Those who are not deemed to have credible fear of persecution or torture are subject to deportation, though they may appeal this ruling.

CIRCUMVENTION OF LAWFUL PATHWAYS

The Circumvention of Lawful Pathways rule, which took effect in May, has made it so that migrants who travel through a third country on their way to the U.S.-Mexico border are generally ineligible for asylum, unless they can prove that they:

already have permission to enter through a parole process approved by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).

used a DHS scheduling system like CBP One  a recently developed government phone app  to secure an appointment to present themselves at an official border port of entry.

sought asylum in another country en route to the U.S. and were denied it.

MORE NEWS:

Ruling overturned: Migrants can stay at St. John Villa shelter

Two more Staten Island hotels are now sheltering migrants, local pols say

New Staten Island migrant shelter to house single women, adult families
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Sudan's army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan told troops in Port Sudan on Monday time has come to "end the rebellion" by paramilitaries, promising victory four months into a brutal war.

The paramilitary Rapid Support Forces led by Burhan's deputy turned rival Mohamed Hamdan Daglo had besieged the army chief inside military headquarters in Khartoum for the past four months.

But last week, Burhan made his first public foray outside the headquarters to review troops in parts of the war-scarred country.

That led to speculation in the local media that Burhan and Daglo had negotiated a deal, a move the army chief staunchly denied in his defiant speech to soldiers in Port Sudan.

"No one helped me out of the army headquarters. I did not come as a result of any agreement. It was a successful military operation," Burhan said in the Red Sea port city.

Port Sudan, where government officials and the United Nations have relocated operations. is the site of Sudan's only functioning airport.

"We are mobilising everywhere to defeat this rebellion, defeat this treason, by these mercenaries who come from all over the world," Burhan told cheering troops.

"There is no time for discussion now, we are concentrating all our efforts on the war, to put an end to the rebellion," he said.

His comments come a day after Daglo released a statement detailing a 10-point "vision" to end the war and build "a new state".

The plan calls for "civilian rule based on democratic norms" and "a single, professional, national military institution", the very sticking point which turned the former allies into rivals.

Before they fell out, Burhan, backed by Daglo, became Sudan's de facto ruler in a 2021 military takeover that derailed a fragile transition to civilian rule.The RSF "started this war by saying 'this is the army of the old regime and the Islamists,' this is a lie," Burhan said Monday.

Conservative estimates from the Armed Conflict Location & Event Data project show that nearly 5,000 people have been killed in the conflict.

But the real figure is thought to be much higher, and the UN says more than 4.6 million people have been displaced by the fighting both inside and outside Sudan.

Fighting meanwhile continued Monday in Khartoum, where residents reported street battles as fighter-jets flew overhead.

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The corporate watchdog will increase the use of automation and artificial intelligence (AI) across its operations, raising concerns among experts that the required technology remains under-developed and could allow serious allegations of white-collar crime to evade investigation.

The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has listed intelligently automate everything we do as one of five principles of its internal digital strategy, according to documents obtained by this masthead under freedom of information laws.

The use of automation within ASIC garnered controversy earlier this year after liquidators claimed reports of serious corporate misconduct were dismissed in as little as 38 seconds, allowing thousands of company directors to avoid scrutiny over five years.

The documents show that ASIC is both prioritising the use of controversial computing processes at the same time as failing to invest in technology at the same scale as its global peers.
Western Australian Premier Roger Cook has batted away concerns about poll results suggesting his state is headed for an emphatic No vote in the Voice referendum.

Speaking after the formal referendum date announcement, Cook said he believed, when faced with the questions on October 14, Western Australians would vote yes.

People will take the sensible and fair-minded response, which is to say yes, he said.

Western Australia Premier Roger Cook. Credit: Alex Ellinghausen

What I can say is that I think every Western Australian believes that the acknowledgement, recognition and consultation with our First Nations people is a fair and reasonable proposition.

Support for the Indigenous Voice to parliament has been rapidly eroding in WA with Resolves combined July and August polling putting support at just 44 per cent, the second-worst in the nation behind Queenslands 41 per cent.

In order for the referendum to be successful a double majority of people and states is required. Cook is an ardent supporter of the voice and said he would be a part of the campaign.

Well be having these conversations in the community, in the media, on the streets, on doorsteps, making sure that we can continue to allow people to access the information they need, he said.

I say to Western Australians, dont shut the door on future generations of First Nations indigenous peoples.

Think about the despair and the hurt that it will cause.
Three months ago the Minns government announced all pubs and clubs would have to remove outdoor advertising promoting so-called VIP Lounges containing poker machines.

Gaming Minister David Harris said the extremely prominent signs put children and other community members at risk of gambling harm, promising to shut down the signs for the health and wellbeing of our communities.

Before and after: The Royal Sheaf Hotel is one of multiple pubs adjusting signage to fit within new legislation but still appeal to poker machine users. Credit: Google Maps/Supplied

Images of dragons and coins as well as words such as VIP Room, Golden Room and Players Lounge in connection with poker machines were outlawed.

Fast-forward three months, with the ban to start on Friday, some pubs already face accusations of using wordplay and colour schemes to tell locals: the pokies are still here.
Blacktown City ratepayers and residents have been ill-served by a council deal that saw land earmarked for development as a research centre and five-star medical tourism hospital associated with high-profile neurosurgeon Charlie Teo sold to developers for less than half the initially estimated price.

Charlie Teo and the proposed facility in Blacktown Credit: Quentin Jones

With Teos reputation in tatters following a recent finding of unsatisfactory professional conduct: a Herald investigation has raised questions about his involvement in the Blacktown Brain and Spinal Institute, the sale of council land to developer Walker Corporation at a hefty discount, and the conduct of the neurosurgeons business partners.

The Heralds chief investigative reporter Kate McClymont on Tuesday revealed that at a 2021 presentation on the Transformation of Blacktown, the councils chief executive officer flagged a $100 million sale to the BBSI group for its billion-dollar medical development. However, last March the land was sold to developer Lang Walkers company for $42 million, without going to public tender. The same day Walker Corporation bought the land, ASIC documents show builder Leny Manassa resigned as the sole director of the BBSI Group. Manassa, local businessman Carlo LoGiudice and Teo all quit as shareholders of BBSI, too.

Teos reputation was vital in gaining council support for the project. But the consortium was shaken after McClymonts front page article on September 5, 2019, which raised serious questions about Teos judgment, behaviour, exorbitant fees and sexual harassment of female colleagues. The following December, she also reported Teos and LoGiudices association with Melbourne underworld figure Mick Gatto. The article also raised the multiple attempts to bankrupt LoGiudice, who had featured a number of times in diaries of the now-jailed former Labor minister Eddie Obeid.
Carrying a knife is becoming normalised for some children in Melbourne and police should be given increased powers to use metal-detecting wands to randomly scan people for weapons, a federal Labor MP says.

In June, Michelle Ananda-Rajah wrote to federal Attorney-General Mark Dreyfus and state Police Minister Anthony Carbines following a February attack on a teenager in Ashburton, located in her inner south-east Melbourne electorate of Higgins.

Michelle Ananda-Rajah says local police told her it was becoming normalised for kids to walk out of their house grabbing their keys, a phone and their knife. Credit: Alex Ellinghausen

In a letter to Ananda-Rajah seen by The Age, Dreyfus said he had chaired a meeting of the Police Ministers Council that included a discussion on the emergence of criminal street gangs and individuals using weapons like knives and machetes in public places.

Dreyfus said the council, which consists of police ministers from each state and territory, acknowledged the threat posed and agreed that suppressing street gangs was a priority area of concern to maintain public safety and confidence.
The Commonwealth Games, who needs them? Weve had them before. Ditto the Olympics. During COVID-19, we even scored a world record for the number of days in lockdown. Melbourne officially has nothing left to prove.

Indeed, our tenacious old town deserves a prize. But what to get? Surely, it has to be something marvellous and practical, something that coincides with the celebration of Melbourne Day, held on 30 August each year.

As a city, Melbourne has little in common with its namesake. Credit: iStock

It took some time to ponder  many lie-awake nights, much workshopping, brainstorming, gratuitous inquiries, non-royal commissions and serious drinking sessions. And finally, it came  a new name.

If this idea seems extreme, let me ask you why? Entire countries change their monikers sometimes (remember when we were called New Holland?).
Washington: Donald Trump will have to face trial in Washington on March 4 next year a day, after a judge rejected his defence teams request to push back the federal case by years.

The former US president was charged in Washington DC with four counts of trying to overturn the results of the 2020 election won by Democrat Joe Biden.

Former US president Donald Trump before being charged in Washington DC in early August. Credit: AP

The date would ensure a blockbuster trial in the nations capital and fall on the eve of Super Tuesday, a crucial day in the Republican nomination calendar when more than a dozen states hold primaries to choose their presidential candidate  forcing Trump to juggle campaign and courtroom appearances.

I want to note here that setting a trial date does not depend and should not depend on the defendants personal or professional obligations, US District Judge Tanya Chutkan said.
Washington: Three US marines who were killed when their aircraft crashed off the coast of the Northern Territory over the weekend have been identified, but it is still not clear what caused the tragedy.

The three decorated marines who died were Corporal Spencer Collart, 21, Captain Eleanor LeBeau, 29, and Major Tobin Lewis, 37.

Major Tobin Lewis, 37, Osprey pilot Captain Eleanor LeBeau, 29, and US Corporal and crew chief Spencer Collart, 21.

They were among 23 marines on board an MV-22B Osprey aircraft when it crashed while transporting troops during a routine training exercise on Melville Island, about 80 kilometres northwest of Darwin.

According to a statement by the Marine Rotational Force - Darwin (MRF-D), three other Marines injured in the crash remained under the care of Royal Darwin Hospital in Darwin, one in critical condition and two others in stable condition.
PHILIPSBURG (DCOMM):--- Every year individuals significantly contributing to the community of Sint Maarten can be nominated to receive a Royal Decoration. The deadline to submit a proposal for a nominee for a Royal Decoration in the year 2024 is August 31, 2023, therefore, the community is reminded to do so as soon as possible.

The Royal Decorations Advisory Committee, in short, RODAC, advises the Government in the approval process of any submissions received.

Anyone knowing an individual can contact the RODAC. via This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to receive the required form or enquire for additional information.

The form to be submitted needs to be filled out completely and should include various support letters from the community.

Usually, persons are bestowed the distinction of Knight or as Member in the Order of Orange Nassau by the Governor of Sint Maarten during a special ceremony at the end of April (the last workday before the birthday of His Majesty the King).

It is essential that submissions are sent on time because the decision-making process takes a while. After the RODAC has provided its advice to the Council of Ministers, decision making can occur both by the Council of Ministers and the Governor and subsequently by the respective Dutch Minister who is being advised by the Kapittel of the Civiele Orden (Civil Honours Council) before the decree is signed by His Majesty the King.

The Kapittel is an impartial and unbiased body that offers advice on the proposed nominees and the level of nomination if qualified.

The Order of Orange-Nassau can be conferred on people who have rendered outstanding services to the community for a considerable period, average 15 years, and are still actively involved with activities that impact the community as a whole or a particular section of the community.

Anyone knowing an individual that meets these requirements, which have been stipulated by the Kapittel, can contact the RODAC.



More information can also be found on the website www.lintjes.nl.
Maple Gold announces the appointments of Kiran Patankar as interim President&CEO and Michael Rukus as Interim CFO

Maple Gold Mines Ltd. (TSX-V: MGM) (OTCQB: MGMLF) (FSE: M3G)A (\Maple Gold\ or the \Company\  https://www.commodity-tv.com/ondemand/companies/profil/maple-gold-mines-ltd/ ) today announced the immediate departure of Matthew Hornor as President, Chief Executive Officer and a Director of Maple Gold and the concurrent appointment of Kiran Patankar, an experienced mining executive and current Chief Financial Officer of Maple Gold, as its Interim President and Chief Executive Officer. The Company also announced the appointment of Michael Rukus, a Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA) and current Corporate Controller of Maple Gold, as its Interim Chief Financial Officer to fill the vacancy created by Mr. Patankara?s appointment.

Mr. Patankar brings to the role an extensive public company leadership, investment banking and capital markets background and a diverse financial, technical, and strategic skill set, including mergers and acquisitions, capital raising, project evaluation and development, financial controls and reporting, stakeholder engagement and corporate governance. His appointment will ensure a smooth transition and operational continuity while the Board pursues an active strategy to unlock value through prudent capital allocation and disciplined exploration and development of the Companya?s district-scale gold projects located in QuAbec, Canada.

aAfter careful review and discussion, the Independent Directors unanimously concluded that a leadership transition is in the best interests of the Companya?s shareholders and stakeholders,a stated Michelle Roth, Maple Golda?s Chairperson, speaking on behalf of the Board. aThe Board would like to thank Mr. Patankar and Mr. Rukus for stepping into their respective positions and looks forward to working with them in their expanded roles as we execute on our value creation initiatives and deliver on the Companya?s enormous growth potential.a

Mr. Patankar has more than 15 years of senior leadership experience in the mining industry. He has served as Maple Golda?s Chief Financial Officer since 2022, after serving as the Companya?s Senior Vice President, Growth Strategy since 2021. From 2015 to 2018, Mr. Patankar served as President, CEO and a Director of two TSX-V listed gold exploration and development companies, where he led growth initiatives and orchestrated successful company turnarounds. As an investment banker with leading Canadian and global financial institutions from 2007 to 2014, he worked exclusively with mining companies on strategic corporate matters and executed M&A and corporate finance transactions totaling more than $3 billion in value. Mr. Patankar holds a Bachelor of Science in Geological Engineering from the Colorado School of Mines and an MBA from the Yale School of Management.

Mr. Rukus has more than 15 years of progressive leadership experience in finance and accounting, including over 10 years in the exploration and mining industry. He has led and directed global accounting and finance teams across multiple jurisdictions and has helped companies drive efficient and comprehensive financial plans and analysis to meet their strategic goals. Mr. Rukus attained a Bachelor of Arts from Simon Fraser University with majors in both Economics and Business Administration and holds Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and Certified General Accountant (CGA) designations.

About Maple Gold

Maple Gold Mines Ltd. is a Canadian advanced exploration company in a 50/50 joint venture with Agnico Eagle Mines Limited to jointly advance the district-scale Douay and Joutel gold projects located in QuAbec\-s prolific Abitibi Greenstone Gold Belt. The projects benefit from exceptional infrastructure access and boast ~400 km2 of highly prospective ground including an established gold resource at Douay (SLR 2022) that holds significant expansion potential as well as the past-producing Eagle, Telbel and Eagle West mines at Joutel. In addition, the Company holds an exclusive option to acquire 100% of the Eagle Mine Property.

The district-scale property package also hosts a significant number of regional exploration targets along a 55 km strike length of the Casa Berardi Deformation Zone that have yet to be tested through drilling, making the project ripe for new gold and polymetallic discoveries. The Company is well capitalized and is currently focused on carrying out exploration and drill programs to grow resources and make new discoveries to establish an exciting new gold district in the heart of the Abitibi. For more information, please visit www.maplegoldmines.com.

ON BEHALF OF MAPLE GOLD MINES LTD.

\Michelle Roth\

Michelle Roth, Chairperson

For Further Information Please Contact:

Mr. Kiran Patankar

Interim President & CEO

Tel: 604.639.2536

Email:A kpatankar@maplegoldmines.com

In Europe:

Swiss Resource Capital AG

Jochen Staiger & Marc Ollinger

info@resource-capital.ch

www.resource-capital.ch

NEITHER THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE NOR ITS REGULATION SERVICES PROVIDER (AS THAT TERM IS DEFINED IN THE POLICIES OF THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE) ACCEPTS RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS PRESS RELEASE.

Forward Looking Statements:

This press release contains \forward-looking information\ and \forward-looking statements\ (collectively referred to as \forward-looking statements\) within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation in Canada, including statements about exploration work and results from current and future work programs. Forward-looking statements are based on assumptions, uncertainties and management\-s best estimate of future events. Actual events or results could differ materially from the Company\-s expectations and projections. Investors are cautioned that forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. For a more detailed discussion of such risks and other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements, refer to Maple Gold Mines Ltd.\-s filings with Canadian securities regulators available on www.sedarplus.ca or the Company\-s website at www.maplegoldmines.com. The Company does not intend, and expressly disclaims any intention or obligation to, update or revise any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.
Final results from Tin Beetle drilling confirm hub and spoke potential at Taronga tin project

First Tin PLC (aFirst Tina)  https://www.commodity-tv.com/ondemand/companies/profil/first-tin-ltd/ -, a tin development company with advanced, low capex projects in Germany and Australia, is pleased to report that the remaining assays from its Tin Beetle prospect, approximately 9km from our advanced Taronga DFS project, have confirmed mineralisation over the entire 2.3km tested to date. This validates the companya?s 340km2 tenure in the Emmaville area as a aTin Districta, with excellent potential for satellite deposits to the large Taronga deposit. Historically, approximately 88,000 tonnes of alluvial tin were mined from within the Emmaville district, the majority of which came from the Tin Beetle area.

Tin Beetle is one of six additional prospects near Taronga that have potential for satellite or stand-alone tin mineralisation (Figure 1).

Highlights

Initial assay results from very wide spaced drilling confirm wide intervals of tin mineralisation with narrower zones of higher grade mineralisation

Significant intercepts include:

48m @ 0.18% Sn from 2m incl. 21m @ 0.32% Sn from 2m and 3m @ 0.28% Sn from 42m

30m @ 0.10% Sn from surface incl. 7m @ 0.16% Sn from 21m (entire hole mineralised)

18m @ 0.07% Sn from 17m incl. 9m @ 0.10% Sn from 17m

78m @ 0.08% Sn from 7m incl. 12m @ 0.11% Sn from 7m and 12m @ 0.13% Sn from 48m

57m @ 0.05% Sn from 62m

27m @ 0.08% Sn from 76m incl. 14m @ 0.12% Sn from 77m and 5m @ 0.18% Sn from 85m

These intercepts are similar to early drill intercepts at the main Taronga mineralisation

Tin Beetle appears to have lower copper and silver content, but higher zinc content than Taronga

The Tin Beetle prospect is located approximately 9km southeast of the main Taronga mineralisation, providing potential for it to be taken by road to a central milling facility at Taronga following on-site upgrading by crushing and possible jigging

If successful, this concept could significantly add to the annual tin production and/or increase the overall mine life of the Taronga tin project

First Tin CEO Thomas Buenger said: aWe are pleased to announce that this drilling has proven our thesis that Taronga is part of a tin district rather than a singular tin occurrence. The recent drill intercepts at Tin Beetle are similar to early drill intercepts at the main Taronga project.

Tin Beetle, like Taronga, also appears to benefit from extremely favourable, sheeted vein style, cassiterite mineralisation, with simple mineral processing characteristics, that outcrops at surface, and could therefore potentially be mined as an open pit. The confirmation of mineralisation over the entire 2.3km drilled to date suggests potential for several open pits in the area. This could significantly improve annual tin output and/or mine life for the Taonga tin project as a whole.

Follow-up drilling is planned for next year following completion of the Taronga DFS.a

The project is owned by First Tina?s 100% owned Australian subsidiary, Taronga Mines Pty Ltd (aTMPLa).

All assay results are presented in Table 1. The true width of intervals is around half the downhole width. Estimated true widths are included in Table 1.A

The drilling targeted a broad area (3km x 0.6km) of mineralisation that had been mined for alluvial and eluvial tin during the 19th and 20th Centuries. It is defined by large workings that have stripped the alluvial material and then continued into weathered, clayey felsic volcanics with sheeted greisen veins hosting cassiterite (tin oxide) mineralisation. This was historically referred to as asoft rocka mineralisation.A Four ENE trending zones of sheeted veining are interpreted from the outlines of workings, tin geochemistry, mapped areas of veining and limited previous drilling (Figure 2).

The current TMPL drilling has confirmed and extended at depth, mineralisation identified by previous explorers in the late 1970s and early 1980s. The mineralisation intersected is variable in thickness and grade and it is interpreted that several moderately sized higher-grade deposits exist within the overall very large, low-grade mineralisation system.

One area with good outcropping tin mineralisation has been tested by four drillholes (TMGBRC001-4) over about 250m of strike in the central part of the central zone (Figure 2). This has confirmed mineralisation with similar grade to the main Taronga mineralisation (0.10 to 0.18% Sn) over the entire 250m and with true widths of between 5m and 25m. This could potentially be mined using open pit techniques as mineralisation outcrops at surface.

Three other areas have been tested by a single line of drillholes each, and all of these have returned broad widths of low-grade mineralisation containing smaller, higher-grade zones, suggesting potential for several open pits in the district. Drillhole TMGBRC006 returned a very broad mineralised zone of 78m grading 0.08% Sn, with two higher grade zones of 12m @ 0.11% Sn and 12m @ 0.13% Sn. This is beneath the main area of asoft rocka mineralisation mined by dredges during the 1970s and 1980s (see dredge pits on Figure 2) and provides a very large target in this area.

TMPL considers the Tin Beetle prospect to be one of several potential satellite deposits for Taronga, with treatment via preconcentration using simple crushing and possibly jigging and then trucking the concentrate approximately 8-9km to Taronga for final processing (Figure 1). If successful, this concept could either add to annual tin production, increase the overall mine life after Taronga mineralisation has been exhausted, or both.

It is proposed that a systematic drilling programme be undertaken over the prospect area, following completion of the Taronga DFS, designed to outline higher grade, potentially mineable zones within this large mineralisation system.

Further Information is attached.

Notes to Editors

First Tin is an ethical, reliable, and sustainable tin production company led by a team of renowned tin specialists. The Company is focused on becoming a tin supplier in conflict-free, low political risk jurisdictions through the rapid development of high value, low capex tin assets in Germany and Australia.

Tin is a critical metal, vital in any plan to decarbonise and electrify the world, yet Europe has very little supply. Rising demand, together with shortages, is expected to lead tin to experience sustained deficit markets for the foreseeable future. Its assets have been de-risked significantly, with extensive work undertaken to date.

First Tin\-s goal is to use best-in-class environmental standards to bring two tin mines into production in three years, providing provenance of supply to support the current global clean energy and technological revolutions.
When Blair took charge of Labour in 1994, the Rightwing media jury was firmly out. Wheres the Beef in Bambi? asked the Daily Mail. Lord Rothermeres paper retained that view, resolutely telling its readers to vote Tory, as did the Daily Telegraph, and as both newspaper groups are likely to do this time  neither displays much regard for Starmer, believing he is masking a party and a true intent they abhor.
Refinitiv Workspace was previously known as Reuters and belonged to the eponymous news agency before being spun off in 2018 in a joint venture with US asset manager Blackstone. As part of the deal, Reuters signed a 30-year agreement to continue to supply markets news coverage to the Refinitiv suite of financial products.
Abbas Ganbay

Since the second Garabagh war, which lasted 44 days, Azerbaijan has been continuing to restore the lands liberated from the invaders and build new, environmentally clean, green energy-based infrastructure for IDPs within the framework of the "Great Return" programme appointed by the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev.

In Armenia, while life for the losing side continues, revenge and hatred towards Azerbaijan have not diminished but have only accumulated to their full extent. The separatist authorities, instead of going to the meeting with the understanding of the high losses of the Armenian society, strengthened their power, fought for it and shifted their sins to each other, as an example, i.e. called allegedly "blockade of Khankendi" or "blocking" the Lachin road, etc.., where the separatist regime appropriated power, fought for it, put their sins on each other, etc., where the separatist regime appropriated humanitarian aid from both Yerevan and Azerbaijan for the residents of Garabagh and Khankendi, as a result of which it accused Azerbaijan of alleged blockade and even genocide.

Apart from the EU observer missions from the European Union, Canada, France and Russia on the border with Armenia, which were supposedly sent to check and monitor the conflict zone, to identify the real causes of the conflict, ultimately did not bear fruit in the way they wanted. Armenia is divided into two forces that want to take control of the government, one based in Khankendi, the other operating from Yerevan, but the so-called blockade of the Lachin road and the Khankendi town, allegedly by Azerbaijan, is broadcast to the world. In the UN Security Council Azerbaijan proved its right: there is neither genocide nor famine.

David Babayan, Advisor to the President of the so-called Artsakh, in a conversation with the correspondent of Armenian News, as well as other political figures of this country, reinforced the minds of their society with empty words and promises in the hope of a better life for Armenia, in case of need for mediation in the negotiations between Azerbaijan and Armenia to establish peace between the countries.

According to Babayan, minister of a so-called regime, speaking to an Armenian correspondent, the emphasis in the negotiations should be placed on the allegedly created humanitarian situation, alluding to the alleged blockade of Khankendi, and that while there is no clear deadline for Armenia, political issues can be postponed for later, and the issue can be raised only in a critical situation when choosing among four scenarios. From Babayan's far-fetched scenarios, the first scenario, in his opinion, is the preservation of the status quo, which, in his opinion, is impossible, and rightly so, as there was no state before the war, only accumulated revenge and enmity during 30 years of occupation of Azerbaijani territories.

In the second scenario, the advisor predicted being part of Azerbaijan, subtly hinting again at the fear of Armenians of Western Azerbaijan, where in the recent events of last week it was strongly expressed and propagandised by Armenians and their authorities that the future territories of Armenia will be part of Azerbaijani territories, imposing again a well-known lie in the minds of society and the world. This idea was supported by a false document written by the "TATOYAN Foundation" and presented to the public in the person of Azerbaijan. What adds oil to the fire is that Armenians want to see more and more clashes, and strife, to involve a third party in this issue, and most importantly, to impose lies on the Armenian society under the guise of truth and freedom.

For Armenians, being part of Azerbaijan is unacceptable, according to the advisor to the second scenario. What are the two remaining scenarios for Armenia, according to the advisor? The third scenario is a struggle, which, in his opinion, is not known how it will end, and it is true, as the struggle for Armenia, in the end, did not lead to good, only deviate to the wrong way, which led to numerous victims. The fourth scenario, which is not different from the others, but adds to the fantasy of the Counsellor, is the Biblical Exodus, where again by implication, the Exodus is the end of the chain of events that began with the resettlement, due to drought and the ensuing famine.

This is a confirmation that the goodness and love in the hearts of Armenians are not enough to see favourable scenarios. Azerbaijan offered peace and life to the inhabitants of Armenian origin of Garabagh as well as Khankendi, in response to the refusal, and the appropriation of humanitarian aid to itself, in the form of separatism, and imposing on the world, allegedly famine and blockade in Khankendi. But for the advisor to the "artsakh president", he says, it is important to maintain dignity, which is already lame, and to be realistic, when they put on their perforated glasses.

The rallies and fatal protests in Armenia have not stopped. Most are not happy with the introduction of the Prime Minister's policy, as Pashinyan recognised entire Garabagh as part of Azerbaijan, and according to a citizen of Yerevan during the rally "Mother Armenia" will not allow Yerevan to turn into Erivan and Armenia into West Azerbaijan."

Despite the false policy of introduction and propaganda of Armenians, the line of trucks with humanitarian aids will move along the route Aghdam-Khankendi.

The Azerbaijan Red Crescent Society has already set forth on a way toward Khankendi with 40 tonnes of flour loaded in trucks. And this is the first stage of the humanitarian assistance being sent to Armenian minority, namely Azerbaijani citizens living in Garabagh. Azerbaijan will closely monitor the processes that are taking place there. And hopefully, this step will be favourably received by the public, the international community, as well as the population of Armenian minority living in Khankendi.
He said: AIM is the most successful growth market in Europe and a key part of the financing infrastructure of the UK. Since its launch almost 30 years ago, over 4000 companies have used AIM to take the next step in their growth journey, raising around 135 billion in that time. We continue to see a strong pipeline of companies from around the world interested in joining the market.
David Hockney is one of the most remarkable artists this country has ever had, said Bragg. In his mid-80s hes still working flat out, and hes had over 400 exhibitions. This celebration brings the essence of that together in what we hope will be a defining programme about Davids work and his ideas about art.
Christina Martini, creative director of Ancient Greek Sandals describes it as the perfect cute but androgynous sandal pointing out that crucially (for the more podiatry-challenged among us) you dont need a perfect pedicure to wear them. Its chic Homeria style, available in black, brown, platinum, beige and off-white (200, ancient-greek-sandals.com ) are  until it rains  a winning option to transition into autumn with. See also Grensons Quincy (95, grenson.com ) for a late sale bargain.
Between Covid, the Met Polices complaints about policing the event, and City Halls previous attempts to move the festivities away from residential areas and into Hyde Park, people have tried to stem its flow, but each time they are rebuffed. I know the event has had difficulties over the years, with people trying to move it out of the area, Will says, but there really is nothing better then roaming the streets of Notting Hill in the summer sun experiencing the culture. Plus, this area is a cultural home for so many people here.
Op Eternal investigations over the last three years have resulted in the Met identifying and jailing major players in the criminal fraternity, and stemming the flow of drugs and guns onto the streets. The drugs trade relies upon exploitation and violence to operate and we will continue to relentlessly pursue those involved, and put them before the courts.
The school was criticised in court for poor communication with parents in the aftermath, including allegedly refusing to divulge details of how the accident happened. Parents also complained that head of governors Nick Crawford went on TV to say there had been no life changing injuries, even as pupils were still being assessed and treated in hospital.
Ms Bell alleged that Mr McEwan had shrugged his shoulders after asking if her partner had been beaten to death by police, though the retired superintendent said he did not remember doing so, and if he had, it would not have been out of malice.
He added that it was better for officers to remain impartial and that there were very few causes for which policing should show support. Wearing a poppy in the autumn is perfectly proper but there is not a lot that we should align to because the danger is that once you say we are going to align ourselves to a cause because 90 per cent of the population support it, what about the 10 per cent?, Sir Mark told the Daily Telegraph.
They widened the timescale of their investigation after the post-mortem examination revealed that Sara had suffered multiple and extensive injuries, likely to have been caused over a sustained and extended period of time.
On Tuesday morning users were forced to queue as the site appeared to be overwhelmed. A message read: Our website is busier than usual. You are now in a queue, and your expected wait time in 1 minute. If you prefer not to wait, please try again later.
Mr Harper told LBC: If you look at the Mayor of Londons own website, he wants to roll out more road user charging schemes, pay-per-mile schemes across London. Mr Khan denied he had any plans for a pay-per-mile scheme and accused Mr Harper of making factual errors. If this was about making money, Id have acceded to the demand from the Government to expand the congestion charge much wider than it currently is, he said. That would have been a cash grab, but I said No.
"Lets just say I felt quite ill and quite faint afterwards because I thought Id done the right thing by paying and then found out I hadnt paid at all, Bobby Sharp - a motorist to have been caught out - told the BBC on Tuesday .
In any conversation about the Indo-Pacific, China looms large. Chinas global ambitions and desire to rival the reach and influence of the West were made clear at the recent BRICS summit, but the writing has been on the wall for years. Its only by shoring up our networks in the Indo-Pacific that we can temper Chinas economic and political expansionism, offering a viable, democratic alternative to Indo-Pacific states.
Mr Cleverly said he would discuss Chinas posture in the region, the sanctions imposed by Beijing on MPs and peers who have spoken out about Mr Xis administration, and the failure to abide by the agreements over Hong Kong.
The Foreign Secretary is already in Asia, visiting the Philippines on Tuesday as part of the Governments strategy of bolstering ties in the Indo-Pacific region in response to Chinas rise as an emerging superpower.
The Indo-Pacific region is seen as of key importance for the UKs security interests, with Mr Cleverly making several trips there since taking up his role last year.
Alan worked for the party in both the House of Commons as PLP secretary and then in the House of Lords as a working peer, without fuss or fanfare but with an absolute determination to make life better for working people.
He added: One of the problems here is that a number of London local authorities dont support [the Ulez] coming into force, so for the future, we are backing an amendment, a backbench amendment to a piece of legislation which will mean in future any road user charging schemes like this would have to be also backed by London boroughs.
In other developments, Kent Council said it had been forced into failing to meet its duties to care for lone child migrants as it branded the National Transfer Scheme (NTS), which is meant to spread the responsibility between local authorities around the country, wholly inadequate.
Mr Arora has now been told to tear down all or part of the luxury hotel in Egham, Surrey, after an extra wing was installed and the building was extended without planning permission.
However, in May, the newly re-elected Greek prime minister said they wouldnt make any deals that included the word loan in them. Kyriakos Mitsotakis told the Independent: We will never recognise that these sculptures are owned, legally owned by the British Museum But again, we have to be constructive, and we have to be innovative if a solution is to be found.
The airline said: During this traditionally very busy week for travel, options for returning to the UK are more limited on some routes and so easyJet will be operating five repatriation flights to London Gatwick over the coming days from Palma and Faro on August 30, and Tenerife and Enfidha on Thursday August 31 and from Rhodes on Friday September 1.
Airlines have a responsibility either to get people back on a flight to get them home, or to pay for them to be accommodated and to sort out accommodation for them, and for food or drink as well. If they dont do it, people can pay for reasonable costs themselves and claim back from their airlines, he added.
The Transport Secretary said: One of the problems here is that a number of London local authorities dont support this scheme coming into force, so for the future, we are backing an amendment, a backbench amendment to a piece of legislation which will mean in future any road user charging schemes like this would have to be also backed by London boroughs.
Thus far, all that has been revealed is that the delays were caused by a technical issue. This meant that the NATS staff had to switch from their digital systems to analog systems while they worked out the problem. However, planning air traffic control is a lot slower when it isnt digital, the company revealed.
The man he was trying to rescue from the railway lines - a 29-year-old - sustained electrocution injuries. He was also taken to hospital where he remained on Tuesday, with injuries which are not believed to be life-changing.
However, we know that there will be lots of people in the Woking community and beyond who will have had contact with Sara who may not already have come forward, and we would encourage them to do so.
The EU has repeatedly sent strong messages of our continuing determination and abiding commitment to Ukraines sovereignty and territorial integrity, and I look forward to these discussions, as they offer us an important opportunity to practically coordinate and implement the many different initiatives and assistance measures we are taking collectively.
A stoic defender of former US President Donald Trump, he faced much criticism from more experienced rivals, who appeared to view him as more of a threat than Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, who has been trailing Mr Trump as a distant second in the Republican primary polls.
In total, we have mobilised 12 aircraft stationed in seven member states. This is the biggest rescue aerial firefighting operation to date since the emergency response mechanism was launched in 2019, the EU Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid authority said on Monday on X, formerly known as Twitter.
The upcoming vote has been complicated by an announcement by the election oversight body that elections must be delayed for at least three to four months because it needs more time to redraw constituencies to reflect the recently held census.
Up to 2,500 US Marines have been based in Darwin for six months a year since 2012 as part of the US military pivot to Asia to counter China's growing influence in the region.
Earlier this month South Africa faced a dilemma in hosting the BRICS economic summit because, as a member of the ICC which issued an arrest warrant for Putin in March for alleged war crimes, it would theoretically be required to arrest him if he were to attend.
Putin at the time described the rebellion as treachery and a stab in the back, but a deal was later struck for Wagner fighters either to join Russian regular army units or move to Belarus.
We need not remind animal lovers that pets are not accessories. Your puppy is a living, breathing being that requires care and attention just like any small human. However, just as we hold dedicated events to shower new babies with gifts before they have even been born, brand-new fluffy friends  whether adopted at a later age or raised from pup-hood  deserve the utmost luxury too.
The Monarch of the Glen was originally intended as part of a series of three works to be displayed in the House of Lords, but the scheme was never realised and the painting was sold to a private collector soon after its completion.
Asked how much ongoing external reviews into RTEs culture and governance would cost, Ms Martin said: That will depend on the needs and the length (of the reviews), if finished earlier or if needs to go beyond the six months  I dont foresee it going beyond the six months  so its hard to give an exact estimation on that.
This is a photo I took on film at the airport as we arrived in South Korea in 2018. We had just learned to do the baby heart with our fingers.
While Google says the rollout is happening this week, The Standard was able to see it in action in a test search already. A search for a hypothetical flight to Tokyo in October revealed that this reporter had already missed the optimal point, which typically arrives five months before takeoff for this journey and would usually save 69 on current prices.
So how much can you expect to shell out for ChatGPT Enterprise. Well, that depends on the size of your business. For now, OpenAI is aiming the tool at larger companies including Fortune 500 giants. Its asking interested customers to get in touch with its sales team to hammer out the price, which will likely depend on how many people in an organisation need access to the tool.
Dr Tom McAdams, Wellcome Trust Senior Research Fellow at the IoPPN and senior author of the study, said: Postnatal depression is under-recognised and undertreated. It's critical that we view it as the severe mental illness that it is and ensure it is treated properly to mitigate some of the associated negative outcomes in mothers, children and wider family.
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Annual Meeting of Romanian Diplomacy 2023 to start in Bucharest

The Annual Meeting of Romanian Diplomacy (RADR 2023) starts today in Bucharest themed "A firm foreign policy of Romania: managing challenges and maximising opportunities."

President Klaus Iohannis is scheduled today to welcome heads of Romanian diplomatic missions, consular offices, and directors of Romanian cultural institutes and give a speech.

Also attending will be Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu.

Attendance this year is in person, after the previous three editions took place virtually.

The event, organised according to tradition near the Day of Romanian Diplomacy - marked annually on September 1 - and hosted by Foreign Minister Luminita Odobescu, brings together the heads of diplomatic missions, consular offices, as well as directors of Romania's cultural institutes from abroad, alongside high-ranking Romanian state officials and members of the Diplomatic Corps accredited in Romania.

Also invited are prestigious leaders of the academe and think tanks, non-governmental organisations and the mass media. Odobescu's special guests will be her counterparts from Chile, Alberto van Klaveren Stork, and Lithuania, Gabrielius Landsbergis.

"The main theme of the Annual Meeting of Romanian Diplomacy in 2023 is focused on the reaffirmation of Romania's foreign policy priorities, by managing challenges and in the perspective of capitalising on the opportunities generated by the current international environment. Amidst the ongoing war of aggression waged by Russia in Ukraine, it is obvious the centrality of security stakes, as well as the need to intensify diplomatic dialogue and related socio-economic efforts in order to strengthen the security architecture and the rules-based international order in a wider framework of joint efforts of the community of democracies," says the Foreign Ministry (MAE).

The Romanian diplomats and their special guests will touch on guidelines for diplomatic action appropriate for the multiple overlapping challenges and crises, often interconnected, that the international community is facing. Coming up with firm answers, in the spirit of the solid values and principles in which Romania is anchored, contributes to the consolidation of its role as a security provider in the region and to its relevance as a credible, resilient partner, part of the European and Euro-Atlantic community.

"Thus, the plenary session to be attended by Chile's minister of foreign affairs will address the importance of global partnerships in managing common challenges, with the title of the session being: 'Consolidating a strong democratic community: maintaining the rules-based international order and deepening global partnerships with like-minded partners.' Amidst the most serious security challenge on NATO's eastern flank, security, cohesion and connectivity is the subject of the second plenary session, called 'From the Baltic Sea to the Black Sea: increasing security and connectivity.' The special guest of at this session is the minister of foreign affairs of Lithuania."

On the sidelines of RADR 2023, there will also be working sessions that will provide an opportunity for in-depth discussions between Odobescu and the MAE leadership and heads of missions to identify the lines of diplomatic approach adjusted for the specifics of geographical spaces and international institutions in which they represent the interests of Romania.

Another plenary session will focus on optimising and increasing the quality of consular services to the benefit of Romanian citizens abroad.

The Annual Meeting of Romanian Diplomacy is traditionally organized every year close to the Day of Romanian Diplomacy - which, starting from 2005, is marked on September 1.

An assessment of the activity of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in the last year as well as an analysis of the international challenges that Romania must face in the future are made. Also, the meeting allows the identification of effective ways to achieve the pursued priority objectives amid global, transatlantic, European and regional developments. The debates are equally designed to identify opportunities that have to be seized, and to draw the main guidelines for the action of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Romanian diplomatic service in the short, medium and long term.
President Klaus Iohannis declared that the accounts he received show that the firefighters who responded to the Crevedia LPG blasts acted "correctly and bravely".

"From all the reports and from all the discussions, it emerged that the firefighters acted correctly and bravely," President Iohannis said on Tuesday after visiting the injured of the blasts, who are treated at the Bucharest Emergency Clinical Hospital, agerpres reports.

As regards allegations about the firemen having substandard protective equipment, Iohannis said that the Emergency Management Inspectorate must provide explanations.

"All the reports that I received show that the response action was carried out correctly, and as far as the photos of the equipment are concerned, I have heard divided opinions. Allow me to leave this matter and its clarification to the experts, specifically with the Emergency Management Inspectorate," said the head of state.
DefMin Tilvar to participate in Informal Meeting of EU Defence Ministers in Spain

National Defence Minister Angel Tilvar will participate on Tuesday and Wednesday in Toledo (Spain) in the Informal Meeting of EU Defence Ministers, an event that will be opened by a working session dedicated to the EU contribution to the security commitments for Ukraine, and later to the analysis of the regional and global impact of the Russian Federation's war of aggression against the neighbouring country, told Agerpres.

According to the National Defence Ministry (MApN), on the sidelines of the event, the National Defence Minister will participate in the second meeting of the Steering Committee of the EU Satellite Centre (EU SatCen) in the Defence Ministers' format at the SatCen headquarters in Torrejon.

Furthermore, on the sidelines of the informal meeting, Minister Angel Tilvar will sign, together with his counterpart from the Kingdom of the Netherlands and the representative of Lockheed Martin, the letter of intent on the establishment of the F-16 Training Centre in Romania.

The Romanian Defence Minister will also have a meeting with his Spanish counterpart, during which the priorities of the Spanish Presidency of the EU Council, the Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP) missions in Africa, the security situation on NATO's eastern flank and in the Black Sea region, as well as bilateral cooperation issues will be discussed.

The activity will conclude with a session dedicated to current affairs, where topical elements of the EU security and defence agenda will be addressed from an operational perspective.

NATO's Deputy Secretary General for Defence Policy and Planning Angus Lapsley, UN Under-Secretary General for Peacekeeping Operations, Jean-Pierre Lacroix, as well as the Ukrainian Minister of Defence Oleksii Reznikov have been invited to participate in this session, the source said.
Iohannis: Romania will continue to support Ukraine and stand by Moldova

President Klaus Iohannis said on Tuesday that Romania will continue to provide "multidimensional and comprehensive" support to Ukraine, as long as necessary, and to stand by the Republic of Moldova, which has been severely affected by war, with financial assistance, expertise and political support.

"We will continue our multidimensional and comprehensive support to Ukraine for as long as necessary. At the same time, we will continue to be at the side of the Republic of Moldova, severely affected by the war, through unprecedented financial assistance, expertise and political support, in building an irreversible European path, but also in building a safe and prosperous state for all its citizens," Iohannis said at the meeting with heads of diplomatic missions, heads of consular offices and directors of Romanian cultural institutes.

He underlined that the priority of the moment is to obtain the political decision to open negotiations for accession to the European Union with the Republic of Moldova and Ukraine.

"Both states need the continued commitment and firm support of the Union and its member states for their European future," Iohannis said.

Since the outbreak of war by Russia, he stressed, Romania's solidarity with Ukraine has remained unwavering.

"We have received more than 5.7 million Ukrainians, we have coagulated large-scale international humanitarian efforts, we have facilitated the transit of more than 22.5 million tonnes of Ukrainian agricultural products through Romania. These efforts are joined by strong political support for Ukraine at the level of the European Union and NATO, unprecedented steps in international law, as well as our commitment to further isolate Moscow and combat Russian impunity," the head of state also said.

President Iohannis added that it is Romania's duty to continue to be a genuine provider of security and prosperity in the region, so that the Black Sea becomes a "region where peace and prosperity can no longer be subject to any threat."
Iohannis, to Romanian diplomats: Make every effort so that all Romanians can vote

On Tuesday, President Klaus Iohannis asked Romanian diplomats to make every effort so that all Romanian citizens, wherever they are, can vote under the best circumstances.

"In the current international context, a firm foreign policy means, first of all, being unwavering in promoting our values. From that perspective, I would like to recall that we are on the threshold of an electoral year that will involve the carrying out of three electoral processes in which you will be involved - two national and one European. These electoral processes are not just an administrative exercise; they are the expression of democracy itself. Therefore, I am asking you to make every effort so that all Romanian citizens, wherever they are, can exercise their right to vote under the best circumstances," Iohannis told a meeting at the Cotroceni Presidential Palace with heads of Romanian diplomatic missions and consular offices and directors of Romanian cultural institutes.

He congratulated the Romanian diplomats on having provided in 2020 the most consular services in the institution's history - over 1,130,000.

"I have confidence in your continued involvement in providing the best and most modern services to Romanian citizens, based on the extensive consular reform initiated in 2020. I want to congratulate you on last year having managed to provide the most consular services in the institution's history - over 1,130,000," said Iohannis.
Iohannis: We want to increase US presence in our region, in all its aspects

President Klaus Iohannis said on Tuesday that Romania wants to increase the US presence in the region in all its aspects - military, economic, energy and political.

"The development and deepening of our Strategic Partnership with the United States of America is a pillar whose relevance is being reconfirmed and consolidated. We are deeply committed to maintaining and strengthening the transatlantic relationship. At the same time, we want to increase the US presence in our region, in all its aspects: military, economic, energy and political," said President Iohannis, at the Cotroceni Presidential Palace, at the meeting with the heads of diplomatic missions, heads of consular offices and directors of Romanian cultural institutes.

He also said that Romania will continue to work together with its US partners towards the common goal of Romania's accession to the Visa Waiver Program.

The head of state reiterated that, as far as Romania's role in NATO is concerned, the country achieved all its objectives at the Vilnius Summit.

"We have taken decisive steps in strengthening our collective security, and your task is to act decisively to implement the Summit decisions. For any security threat that could affect Romania, the Alliance has, thanks to the adoption of the new defence plans, a ready response, tailored to its needs. The necessary framework has also been created to bring the battle groups, including the Romanian one, to brigade level, with reinforcement forces, if the situation so requires. At the same time, we will speed up the processes related to the pre-positioning of equipment. I repeat: Romania and its citizens now benefit from the highest degree of security and defence in our history," said Iohannis.

He also mentioned that Romania will continue to ensure the fulfillment of its national commitments, in close coordination with its allies, including within the framework of the Bucharest 9 format, which has proven its usefulness in ensuring effective coordination on the Eastern flank.

"I also welcome the reconfirmation of the strategic importance of the Black Sea and encourage you to continue your efforts to strengthen its place on the NATO agenda. Developments such as the prominence of the region in global efforts to ensure the transfer of Ukrainian grain to international markets can facilitate these efforts. The completion by the United States of the Black Sea Security Strategy, to which the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has made a substantial contribution, also contributes in the same direction. Its implementation will give even more substance to our cooperation in the region," Iohannis told the Romanian diplomats.
PM Ciolacu: I expect police to fight more drug dealers efficiently

Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu stresses that the measures to combat drug use announced by the Minister of Interior Affairs, Deputy Prime Minister Catalin Predoiu, "are a step forward on the right path, but they are not enough."

"In addition to drug testing in schools or confiscating the car of anyone caught driving while high on drugs, we need a massive effort to break up drug trafficking networks. I expect the police to fight drug dealers much more effectively! I want to see all available troops on the streets, on the trail of all those bastards who make fortunes causing real tragedies in Romanian families!," Ciolacu wrote on Facebook.

The Prime Minister underlines that the Romanian Police has a huge duty towards society in this regard.

"Romanians must quickly see a deep and sustained change of attitude from the state and concrete results. Because this means hundreds and thousands of lives protected every day!," added the Prime Minister.
A Letter of Intent between the Ministry of National Defense of Romania, the Ministry of Defense of the Kingdom of the Netherlands and the Lockheed Martin Company regarding the F-16 Training Center in Romania was signed Tuesday by the minister of National Defense, Angel Tilvar, in the context of his participation in the Informal Meeting of Defence ministers of the European Union, held in Toledo, Spain.

"Through this center, Romania is committed to providing a high-quality training environment, with access to technical resources and state-of-the-art know-how not only for Romanian pilots, but also for those from allied and partner states, including Ukraine," the minister of National Defense said, according to a press release of the Ministry of Defense, agerpres reports.

In order to implement this project, the Royal Dutch Air Force will contribute by deploying some F-16 aircraft in the 86th Lieutenant Aviator Gheorghe Mociornita Air Base, thus facilitating the effective training of Romanian pilots. Also, Lockheed Martin Company will provide technical support of the highest level, through flight instructors and technical-engineering staff. Through this solid cooperation, a complex preparation is ensured, in accordance with international standards, MApN mentions.

The F-16 Training Center at the 86th Air Base will become a relevant regional center, a fact already consolidated by the signing of the Joint Declaration at the NATO Summit in Vilnius, in July 2023. Through this agreement, Romania joins other allied nations, such as Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Luxembourg, Norway, the Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Sweden and the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, in support of the training of Ukrainian pilots for the future use of F-16 aircraft."I express hope that the F-16 Training Center in Romania will demonstrate its strategic importance, which aims to meet the complex security requirements of Romania, its allies and partners in the region. This joint effort strengthens Romania's position as a regional leader in training F-16 pilots, contributing to the cohesion of alliances, demonstrating unity and strengthening the Euro-Atlantic defense," minister Angel Tilvar said.According to MApN, this project not only underlines Romania's commitment to collective security, but also reflects the solid support given to our partners. Through the F-16 Training Center, Romania is consolidating its role as a security provider, contributing substantially to supporting Ukraine's capabilities within the collective efforts for stability and security.
Round 139k persons enter Romania Monday, including over 15k Ukrainians

The General Inspectorate of the Border Police (IGPR) informs that 139,101 persons entered Romania on Monday through the border crossing points, including 15,313 Ukrainian citizens, told Agerpres.

According to a press release sent to AGERPRES on Tuesday, about 357,500 people, Romanian and foreign citizens, with almost 89,000 means of transport, have passed through border checkpoints throughout the country, both on the entry and exit ways.

As of 10 February 2022 (pre-conflict period), 5,815,803 Ukrainian citizens have entered Romania.

In the areas of jurisdiction, crossing points and "green border," the police found 50 illegal acts (23 offences and 27 contraventions) committed by both Romanian and foreign citizens, and the amount of fines imposed amounted to 13,900 lei.

Goods worth approximately 12,000 lei were seized for confiscation.

On Monday, 17 foreign citizens were not allowed to enter the country because they did not meet the conditions provided by the law and 18 Romanian citizens were not allowed to leave the country for various legal reasons.
MONDAY, Aug. 28, 2023 (American Heart Association News) -- Patti Allbritton was born a little blue.

She wasn't particularly sad  it wasn't that kind of blue. She was born with a rare congenital heart defect called tetralogy of Fallot with pulmonary atresia, in which the valve that's supposed to control blood flow from her heart to her lungs never grew. Instead, her heart sent blood out through a set of collateral vessels. It got the job done but made her heart work harder and less effectively. This resulted in such poor oxygen saturation that it gave her fingernails and the skin around her mouth a faint blue tint when she was tired, a condition known as cyanosis.

At the time decades ago, Allbritton's parents were told nothing could be done to fix the problem, which was robbing their daughter of a typical childhood.

"As I grew up, I learned my limits," she said. "I played until I got tired and then I had to sit down to rest. Obviously, you know there's something different about you when everybody else doesn't have to do the same things you do."

Every year, her parents took her to see a cardiologist at Texas Children's Hospital in Houston, not far from her home in Pearland. Tests evaluated whether the complicated, roundabout job of moving blood from her heart to her lungs was functioning sufficiently.

"They would say, 'This is working; we're not going to mess with it,'" Allbritton said. "But as I continued to age and do more, I could tell my body was starting to let me know I was doing too much."

It was hard not to overexert. Allbritton was trying to live a normal life, despite her condition. She went to college. She got married. Because of her heart condition, doctors advised her not to get pregnant. So she and her husband, John, adopted a baby boy they named Joshua. She was frustrated that she didn't have the energy to do all the things new mothers typically do.

"Joshua hit 20 pounds at 6 months old. I couldn't hold him for very long," she said. "As a mom, you want to pick your toddler up and carry him around, and I didn't have that luxury."

As the years passed, the list of things she couldn't do grew. "He'd come home from school and want to tell me about his day and sometimes I couldn't even stay awake to listen to him," she said. "I just needed to nap."

By her mid-40s, Allbritton's oxygen saturation levels had dropped from the high 80s to the low 80s, sometimes dipping into the 70s. A healthy person has oxygen saturation levels in the upper 90s.

She found it harder and harder to do anything without feeling exhausted. "I couldn't even walk 100 feet without having to stop to catch my breath," she said. When she and her husband took her son to look at colleges, she had to sit out the campus tours.

Through it all, doctors continued monitoring her. They knew things were getting worse, but any surgical intervention carried more risks than benefits.

Then, in 2021, things changed.

Texas Children's Hospital had just opened a new adult congenital heart unit and brought in a team of dedicated surgeons and nurses. As a member of the volunteer patient advocacy team, Allbritton had even been asked to provide feedback on how to design patient rooms and menus.

With the added resources, "we felt better prepared to take care of complex patients," said Dr. Peter Ermis, the medical director of the new unit and  by then  Allbritton's primary cardiologist.

Allbritton's medical team began a year-long discussion about whether and how they could solve her problem.

"The issues going in were that there was a hole in the wall between the two chambers of her heart," Ermis said. "The heart had no direct connection to her lungs. She had extra vessels connecting her lungs to her aorta. We had to address all three of those problems. We had to close the hole, put in an artificial connection from the right side of her heart to her lungs, and close or disconnect the extra vessels because she wouldn't need them anymore."

"This takes a lot of pre-planning," he said.

Last year, when she was 48, all the planning paid off. The day-long surgery was so successful, her blood oxygen levels have risen to a robust 98. The first thing people noticed, she said, was that her skin changed color.

"After my surgery, so many people have commented to me, 'You're so pink now!'" she said.

Today, Allbritton exalts in doing all the things she thought she could never do. Little things  like walking across the parking lot to a store  bring her joy, simply because she was never able to do them before. She even joined an exercise class.

Best of all are the times she spends visiting her son at the University of Texas at Arlington. "We go and walk the campus all the time," she said. "Every time we go there, we walk."

American Heart Association News covers heart and brain health. Not all views expressed in this story reflect the official position of the American Heart Association. Copyright is owned or held by the American Heart Association, Inc., and all rights are reserved.

By Laura Williamson, American Heart Association News
The numbers are staggering: 29.5 million Americans aged 12 and over had alcohol use disorder in the past year, according a national survey on drug use and health.

And, 1 in 6 adults in the U.S. are binge drinkers, 25% of them binge drinking on a weekly basis.

Binge drinking accounts for most cases of excessive alcohol use, and it's distinct from alcoholism and alcohol use disorder (AUD). Learn more about what it is, the health implications of binge drinking, contrasts with alcoholism and strategies to curtail its grip.

What is binge drinking?

The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) defines binge drinking as a pattern of drinking that brings blood alcohol concentration (BAC) to 0.08% or higher. This typically happens when a woman has four or more drinks or a man has five or more within roughly two hours.

Across the United States, the legal limit is 0.08%, according to Forbes.

Young people can hit that limit with even fewer drinks than adults  three drinks for girls and three to five for boys. This underscores the boundaries of binge drinking and its potential impact.

Is binge drinking alcoholism?

Binge drinking and alcoholism are two different things. But those who engage in binge drinking have a higher risk of alcohol dependency.

"The difference between binge drinking and meeting the clinical diagnostic criteria for an alcohol use disorder is the element of control," said Dr. Lawrence Weinstein, chief medical officer with American Addiction Centers. Alcohol addiction is partially defined as the inability to cease consumption despite the negative consequences of alcohol intake, the need to consume more to reach the desired effect, and intense cravings."

When it comes to binge drinking, he said, the individual does not experience those symptoms.

Most of those who binge drink likely are not dependent on alcohol, nor would they meet the diagnostic criteria for an AUD, but they may be more likely to develop one, Weinstein said.

This distinction is crucial in understanding the relationship between excessive alcohol use and the potential for more profound and lasting effects on one's relationship with alcohol.

Signs of binge drinking

Besides consuming four to five drinks (or more) within two hours, signs of binge drinking include:

Frequent blackouts or memory gaps

Guilt or worry about excessive drinking

Legal troubles linked to alcohol use

Fatigue and irritability after drinking

Defensiveness about drinking habits

Unplanned excessive consumption

Early-day drinking

Substituting enjoyable activities with drinking or making drinking central to weekend plans

Binge drinking's effects on your health

Excessive alcohol consumption triggers an array of immediate and enduring health hazards, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Short-term health risks include:

Injuries such as motor vehicle accidents, falls, burns and drownings

Acts of violence, including suicide, homicide, sexual assault and partner violence

Alcohol poisoning, an urgent medical crisis linked to elevated blood alcohol levels

Risky sexual behaviors leading to unintended pregnancies or sexually transmitted diseases like HIV

Miscarriages, stillbirths and fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASDs) for pregnant women

Long-term health risks include:

High blood pressure, stroke, heart disease, liver disease and digestive issues

Weakening of the immune system, heightening susceptibility to illnesses

Cancers affecting the breast, mouth, esophagus, throat, voice box, colon, liver and rectum

Mental health disorders encompassing depression and anxiety

Cognitive deficits, memory issues and conditions like dementia

Social challenges such as family strife, work-related conflicts and unemployment

Alcohol use disorders or alcohol dependence, snaring individuals in a cycle of dependency

How to stop binge drinking

Predominantly prevalent among adults aged 18 to 34, the rate of binge drinking is higher among men than women.

When it comes to binge drinking, social factors play a significant role in whether a person will drink to excess," writes John Clapp, a professor of behavioral health at USC Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work. When people go out with the intention of drinking with other like-minded people, the likelihood of drinking more heavily and drinking across an extended period of time increases significantly.

Employing self-regulation and mindfulness strategies is essential to reducing risks. Weinstein offered these recommendations to help someone stop binge drinking:

Allow only a certain number of drinks per outing.

Take stock of when and why binge drinking occurs to see if a pattern exists or if specific issues need to be addressed.

Consume water or another alcohol-free beverage while out drinking.

Take along a friend who can help keep you accountable and maintain focus on not binge drinking.

Have an exit plan, should the temptation to binge become too great. At this point, it may be beneficial to speak to a professional about your relationship with alcohol.

Seek help if binge drinking is out of control

Recognize the signs of excessive binge drinking: frequent blackouts, guilt, legal troubles, fatigue and more. If these signs resonate, remember that help is available. Reclaim control and well-being with resources like:

National Helpline: 1-800-662-HELP (4357) for confidential assistance.

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA): Visit SAMHSA's website for information and a treatment locator.

Local Support Groups: Organizations like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) offer support and guidance.

Your journey toward overcoming binge drinking can start today, with accessible resources ready to guide you toward positive change.

SOURCE: Lawrence Weinstein, MD, chief medical officer, American Addiction Centers, Brentwood, Tenn.

References

National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism: Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) in the United States: Age Groups and Demographic Characteristics

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): Binge Drinking

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): Alcohol Use and Your Health

National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism: Understanding Binge Drinking

USC Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work: How to Reduce Binge Drinking: Strategies for Big Parties or a Night In

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA): Homepage

Alcoholics Anonymous: Homepage
WEDNESDAY, Aug. 23, 2023 (HealthDay News) -- The number of Americans undergoing gender-affirming surgery is on the rise, new research reveals, almost tripling between 2016 and 2019 alone.

During that period, more than 48,000 patients -- about half of them between 19 and 30 years of age -- underwent some form of gender-affirming (GAS) surgery, researchers found.

About 4,500 of those procedures were performed in 2016. By 2019, that figure rose to a high of 13,000, a number that dipped only slightly in 2020.

A lot of scare pieces are being written about how many trans people there seem to be all of a sudden, but this is not about a skyrocketing number of people who all of a sudden are trans and all of a sudden are seeking these procedures, said Kellan Baker, a transgender health care policy expert. "This is about the fact that before 2016 it was just not possible for many of these patients to get the medical care they needed because of discriminatory exclusions."

The study's lead author, Dr. Jason Wright, pointed to several possible reasons for the rapid increase. One, he said, is a greater awareness of the procedures among patients and health care providers.

And there is a growing body of literature that the procedures are generally safe and associated with high satisfaction, said Wright, chief of gynecologic oncology at Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons in New York City.

There have also been a number of initiatives to improve insurance coverage for these operations, which likely make them more accessible to patients, he added.

Gender-affirming surgery is one of the treatments -- alongside behavioral therapy and hormonal therapy -- available to patients struggling with gender dysphoria.

Gender dysphoria occurs when the gender a person is assigned at birth doesn't match the gender with which one identifies.

Certain breast, chest, cosmetic, facial and genital reconstruction surgeries are intended to help.

Researchers cite previous studies that found such procedures can alleviate the depression and anxiety that accompany gender dysphoria. They also boost quality of life and overall satisfaction levels, those studies have found.

To learn how many Americans are now embracing gender-affirming surgery, Wright's team reviewed a national database of surgical procedures in almost 2,800 hospitals in 35 states. The researchers also combed a second database that covers a large swatch of inpatient admissions in community hospitals across 48 states.

Between 2016 and 2020, just over 48,000 gender-affirming procedures were performed.

They included breast reconstruction, repositioning and size adjustments; nipple reconstruction; male or female genital reconstruction; cosmetic facial procedures; hair removal or transplantation; liposuction and/or collagen injections.

Broken down year by year, the patient pool rose from 4,552 in 2016 to a peak of 13,011 in 2019. In all, 12,818 patients had gender-affirming surgery in 2020, the final year of the study.

Over the entire period, just over half (52%) of the patients were between 19 and 30 years of age, while about 22% were between 31 and 40. Fewer than 8% were between the ages of 12 and 18.

Most lived in the West (46%) or the Northeast (26%). About two-thirds underwent a single GAS procedure. More than a quarter of patients had two.

While all forms of gender-affirming surgery rose, breast and chest surgeries were most common. About 57% of patients had that type of surgery, with breast reconstruction being the most popular option.

About one-third (35%) of patients underwent genital reconstruction, with older patients more likely to choose this option. About 14% underwent cosmetic or facial operations.

Characterizing the spike in GAS surgeries as "remarkable," Wright said more study is needed.

There is clearly a need to further explore the very rapid rise in the number of procedures performed each year, he said, in order to get a better handle on exactly whats behind it.

Meanwhile, Baker, executive director of the Whitman-Walker Institute, a health policy think tank in Washington, D.C., had a straightforward explanation for the trend.

In the past, insurers often refused to cover gender-affirming surgery. That changed dramatically in 2016, when the Obama administration clarified in regulation that the Affordable Care Act bars discrimination in insurance coverage and health care against transgender people.

But when you remove that exclusion," Baker said, "it then makes it possible for providers to provide care. And it makes that care much more accessible and affordable to patients."

In other words, he said, the trend is no mystery.

"Trans people have always been here," Baker said. "The numbers were seeing now just reflect the fact that people have finally gotten some legal recognition, social visibility and the ability to be open about who they are and to get the medical care they need."

He is concerned, however, about ongoing efforts in many states to legislatively restrict access to transgender care.

That would not be a positive thing," Baker said. "It would reflect going back to a state of unmet need. Gender dysphoria is a real and serious condition. And not treating it is not an option."

The findings were published Aug. 23 in JAMA Network Open.

More information

There's more about gender-affirming surgery at the Cleveland Clinic.

SOURCES: Jason Wright, MD, chief, gynecologic oncology, Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York City; Kellan Baker, PhD, MPH, transgender health care policy expert, Whitman-Walker Institute, Washington, D.C.; JAMA Network Open, Aug. 23, 2023
BERKELEY  A group of regional business and civic leaders sent a letter to the St. Louis County Council Monday in support of Boeings $1.8 billion expansion project.

The group included 163 leaders of major area corporations, banks, schools, startups, law firms, small businesses and nonprofits. All are investors in Greater St. Louis Inc.

Boeing has said the project would expand manufacturing potential for future franchise programs. A proposal pending before the St. Louis County Council would give Boeing half-off on the projects real and personal property taxes over 10 years in exchange for the new jobs and investment  saving the company an estimated $155 million in taxes over the decade.

Greater St. Louis CEO Jason Hall said in a statement that the project will ensure the competitiveness of Boeing St. Louis for decades to come. He described the letter sent Monday as a testament to the critical nature of this project.

Among others, the letter sent to the council Monday is signed by the CEOs of Ameren, Spire, Schnuck Markets Inc., and the largest health systems in the region: BJC HealthCare, Mercy, SSM Health and St. Lukes Hospital. It is signed by Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis CEO Michael McMillan, Regional Business Council CEO Kathy Osborn, General Motors Wentzville plant Executive Director Lamar Rucker, and World Wide Technology Founder David Steward.

We appreciate your diligence in this matter and understand the difficult decisions you must make regarding public resources, the letter said.

It pointed to the 500 jobs the project is expected to create and said the expansion will show the rest of the country and the world that St. Louis is prepared to compete and win jobs for our region.
ST. LOUIS COUNTY  Authorities on Tuesday charged the 24-year-old man who was shot by a St. Louis County officer on Monday morning after police say he carjacked a woman, then opened fire on officers when they arrived at the scene.

Dujuan Williams is charged with first-degree assault, first-degree robbery and two counts of armed criminal action. Williams on Tuesday was still hospitalized and police said he will be held in custody on a $500,000 cash-only bail.

St. Louis County police Officer Adrian Washington said Williams pointed a gun at a woman and took her car from a parking lot just before 11:30 a.m. in the 6800 block of Parker Road. He then got out of the car and began walking for some reason.

He walked past a nearby apartment complex, and when police arrived to respond to the carjacking call, Washington said he opened fire on the police car.

Police returned fire and hit him.

At least one police car had a window shot out Monday afternoon at the scene.

No officers were injured during the shooting.
ST. LOUIS COUNTY  A driver was charged Monday with causing a six-vehicle crash that killed a motorcyclist last year.

Derrick D. Aaron, 24, of Batchtown, Illinois, faces a count of first-degree involuntary manslaughter accusing him of recklessly changing lanes and speeding leading to a pile-up crash that killed Matthew J. Wahlman, 34, of St. Charles.

The crash happened in a construction zone about 11:30 p.m. Sept. 1, 2022, on westbound Interstate 27 near South New Florissant Road.

Charges allege that a dashcam video taken by one of the drivers involved shows Aaron speeding and making an unsafe lane change that caused him to hit a FedEx semi-truck.

A Missouri Highway Patrol crash report says Aaron's Charger then hit a median wall. Wahlman was driving a Harley Davidson motorcycle that then hit the Charger, ejecting Wahlman into the air, according to the report.

Wahlman, who was wearing a helmet, died at the scene, police said at the time.

The chain reaction of collisions caused two SUVs and a van to collide on the highway, according to the report.
WASHINGTON  Top intelligence officials know theyre at risk of losing a 9/11-era provision that allows them to spy on foreigners without a warrant.

So, in testimony in front of the Senate Judiciary Committee in June, they leaned into one of the few bipartisan issues remaining in Congress to win support for the program  stopping the flow of fentanyl into the country.

Sen. Josh Hawley, R-Mo., had another target on his mind  the FBI.

Why would we reauthorize it given your track record of abuse and illegal improper surveillance and political targeting, Hawley said. Why would we do that? Why would this body ever do that?

Hawley is one the FBIs most vocal critics in Congress. Over the past year, hes claimed the agency has an anti-Catholic bias, that it is engaged in a politically motivated attempt to take down former President Donald Trump and has accused it of covering up information from a congressional investigation into Biden.

As U.S. intelligence agencies turn to Congress for permission to keep collecting the communications of foreigners who use U.S. communication systems  a provision called Section 702 in the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act  the souring relationship between Republicans and the FBI could be standing in the way.

Intelligence officials have long said that Section 702 is a vital tool to protect the homeland against a slew of national security threats, from drug traffickers and terrorist organizations to nation states threatening U.S. critical infrastructure.

A U.S. intelligence official told McClatchy and the Kansas City Star that 60% of the material in the presidents daily briefs rely on information collected using Section 702  and that 70% of the countrys counterproliferation efforts, monitoring the movement and construction of weapons of mass destruction, rely on the tool.

Our ability to identify new threats would be severely diminished, the intelligence official said when asked what would happen if Congress were to fail to reauthorize 702. Our ability to provide the same level of insight in our analytic products would be degraded significantly. Our ability to understand and track what our near peers are doing would be very much hampered. And our ability to reproduce this in some other way would never be matched  it is just not going to be possible. It will be the difference between preventing an attack and investigating it after the fact.

But opponents of the legislation warn that 702 provides law enforcement with a backdoor to monitor the communications of American citizens  a concern that has been consistently raised by civil liberties advocates on the left ever since the provision was passed into law in 2008.

Republicans have become critics of the law, as well, objecting to its use during an investigation into whether foreign nationals were communicating with the Trump campaign during the 2016 election. While FISA tools were used in that investigation, Section 702 was not.

Last month, an independent intelligence advisory board found that the sheer volume of Section 702 activity led to inappropriate use of the tool by the FBI, identifying three occasions in which FBI officers intentionally misused the surveillance power. But the board found no evidence of willful misuse of these authorities by FBI for political purposes. A recently unsealed FISA court filing found that, in 2021, the FBI conducted roughly 278,000 queries of information on U.S. citizens that the bureau characterized as accidental, a number that has decreased in recent years.

Now, the Biden administration and a bipartisan group of lawmakers has agreed the tool requires reform before Congress votes for reauthorization. But it is unclear whether Hawley would be satisfied with reform, or whether he seeks to end the use of Section 702 outright. His office declined to comment for this article.

Finding 60 votes

When Hawley was campaigning against former Democratic Sen. Claire McCaskill in 2018, he said he had privacy concerns about the law.

I support giving national security officials the tools they need to aggressively fight terrorism and keep Americans safe, but we have to be vigilant in reviewing this practice to avoid unintended consequences that impact the privacy of Americans, Hawley said at the time.

McCaskill that year helped provide a deciding vote to help the legislation pass  giving her thumbs up while battling the flu.

Intelligence officials say that the law allows them to collect information they would otherwise never find out, including how the materials used to make fentanyl get from China into the United States, leading to a record number of drug overdoses over the past five years.

According to the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services, 70% of the overdose deaths in 2022 were caused by non-heroin opioids, the category that includes fentanyl. Overdose deaths have increased 60% from 2017, when non-heroin opioids made up 48% of overdose deaths.

While Hawley has raised concerns about the increase of fentanyl, his legislative efforts have mostly focused on how the drug comes over the southern border instead of its origins in China. Last year, he co-sponsored a bill that would increase the minimum prison sentence for people who were found guilty of trafficking fentanyl, and he wrote a letter to the DEA that focused on how the drug is coming across the southern border.

National security and intelligence officials told McClatchy that the main avenues for smuggling fentanyl into the country are indeed through the U.S. southern border. But Section 702 has allowed the intelligence community to understand and monitor the entire supply chain of the drug, from its precursor chemicals  largely produced in China  to their shipment and processing in Mexico, where cartels then smuggle them up north.

The ability to monitor that process from start to finish provides U.S. intelligence and law enforcement officials with more opportunities to disrupt the trade of a drug that, compared with other narcotics, is exceptionally easy to produce and to hide.

702 is really the only source of information that allows us to stay dynamic in thwarting the threat, the intelligence official said.

Other lawmakers, also concerned about how the FBI has abused the law, have put forward legislation that would require reform in order for the reauthorization of the bill.

Sen. Jerry Moran, a Kansas Republican who is the ranking member of the Senate committee that determines how much money Congress gives to the Department of Justice, has filed legislation that would require the FBI to establish guardrails for their use of the law.

As a member of the Senate Intelligence Committee, I recognize and value the importance of Section 702 as a tool to keep Americans safe and secure, and I use my position to ensure proper oversight, Moran said in a written statement. Sensible amendments to safeguard the civil liberties should be considered, and as the lead Republican appropriator for the FBI, I have used my position to make certain the Bureau is following its own standards to comply with FISA.

Moran is among a group of bipartisan senators who appear to be aiming to reauthorize the legislation with significant reforms, to assuage the concerns of lawmakers angry at the FBI.

Sen. Eric Schmitt, R-Mo., indicated that he wants reforms for the FBI before he supports reauthorization.

Its evident that the FBI has been weaponized, and its far past time for reforms after the FBI has repeatedly used their power to go after political opponents, Schmitt said. Ill be watching this closely as it moves forward.
ST. LOUIS  Authorities on Monday charged a 20-year-old man who they say shot at officers early Sunday in the city's Bevo Mill neighborhood.

Derek Morado Gama is charged with first-degree assault on a special victim and armed criminal action. He remained in custody on Monday without bond.

Officers said they were driving across a parking lot just after midnight in the 4900 block of Christy Boulevard when they heard gunshots, according to a police report.

They turned a corner of a building and saw a tan pickup truck. The driver stuck a handgun with an extended magazine out of the driver side window and fired at the officers, according to the report.

The pickup then drove off, but it pulled over for officers a short distance later at Alfred Avenue and Itaska Street, where Gama was arrested without incident.

No one was injured in the shooting, police said.
ST. LOUIS  A 13-year-old boy and another teen carjacked a woman and led police on a chase through St. Louis early Monday, authorities said.

Officers said the teen boy and a 19-year-old man carjacked a woman's Honda Civic at gunpoint around 1 a.m. in the 4100 block of Flad Avenue, in the city's Shaw neighborhood.

Police spotted the vehicle later Monday morning in Patch, the city's southernmost neighborhood, and when they tried to pull it over the teens fled north on the interstate with the 13-year-old driving.

The chase stretched into north St. Louis, where police said the teens tossed a gun out the window, then back toward downtown, where the car eventually broke down at North Market and North 14th streets in Old North St. Louis.

The teens ran from the scene, but police found them, used a Taser and arrested them near downtown.

In all, the car chase lasted almost 15 miles, according to a police description of the incident.
ST. LOUIS COUNTY  Federal officials on Monday announced $7 million in grant funding to buy 11 flood-prone properties in the St. Louis region.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency will fund grants to offer to buy properties in University City, Ladue and Webster Groves and turn them into permanent greenspaces as part of an effort to move residents out of areas that have been hit particularly hard by floods in recent years. Property owners have to agree to a buyout offer.

The properties include apartments and single-family homes that were damaged last year when historic rainfall triggered flash flooding along St. Louis-area creeks and rivers.

The cities were among local governments in 23 states that won an annual, national competition for grants to fund projects aimed at building resilience to climate change and extreme weather disasters. In all, President Joe Bidens administration has approved nearly $3 billion in funding for the grants.

Elsewhere in Missouri, the city of Springfield won about $9.4 million to provide backup natural gas-powered generators to protect the citys water supply during disasters.

Each project will have to undergo a second review to ensure their acquisition and demolition meet environmental regulations and other program requirements before FEMA can release funding to Missouri, which will then administer the funds to each city.

We are thrilled that these cities have been selected, said Andrea Spillars, administrator for the regional FEMA office that oversees Missouri. The results will improve the communities long-term resiliency by moving structures and people out of harms way and hardening critical infrastructure that residents rely on for essential needs.

The buyouts approved Monday include:

 About $3.2 million to University City to buy out three buildings of the Hafner Court Apartments, which overlook the River Des Peres, near Olive Boulevard and Hafner Place Drive.

 Nearly $3.6 million to Ladue for buyouts of six homes on Foxboro Road, near Deer Creek.

 $578,730 to Webster Groves for buyouts of two homes near Deer Creek, one on North Forest Avenue and another on East Pacific Avenue.

Each of the properties received grants set aside specifically to eliminate the risk of repetitive flood damage to buildings insured by the National Flood Insurance Program, a FEMA program that provides flood insurance to properties in federally mapped flood plains.

The grant funding pays up to 90% of the cost to purchase and demolish the properties, several of which remain under local condemnation orders because of severe damages. State and local governments decide how to fund the remaining costs.

Dozens of other St. Louis-area properties are still being considered by FEMA for one-time buyout funding after last years deluge. Those properties, ranging from Coldwater Creek in north St. Louis County to Joachim Creek in Jefferson County, and from Deer Creek in Ladue to the River Des Peres in Lemay, could mark one of the largest flood buyouts in the region in three decades.
JEFFERSON CITY  The top administrator in the Missouri House is pushing back against a company trying to sell a software program to the General Assemblys lower chamber.

Dana Rademan Miller, the chief clerk of the House, says the companys product is not significantly better than the current in-house program used to assist constituents who make contact with the offices of lawmakers.

In memos obtained by the Post-Dispatch, Miller also said the constituent management program being offered by Fireside was too expensive.

While from a high level, the Fireside CM application appears to be a solid program, it is an expensive redundancy and is not needed, Miller said in a memo sent to lawmakers Aug. 8.

Fireside, a subsidiary of FiscalNote, is being pitched to the House as a web-based product that integrates contact forms, mailing templates and other features into its framework.

Share updates on your legislative work. Templates and ready-built constituent lists mean you can send professional-looking communications in no time at all, the firm says on its website.

The California-based company is represented in the Missouri Capitol by lobbyists Chris Roepe and John Bardgett, who have contracts with a number of high-profile businesses and governments, including the City of St. Louis, Anheuser-Busch, the St. Louis Cardinals and Toyota.

The lobbying firm last year scored a win for a different client when the state bought a school safety app designed to alert authorities about the presence of a school shooter in a building.

Raptor Technologies has been paid $1.1 million out of a contract worth a possible $3.4 million.

It is not yet clear whether the lobbyists or Fireside have convinced House leaders to adopt the system. A hearing of a House committee that oversees administration of the chamber is set for Sept. 12.

The chairman of the committee, Rep. Dale Wright, R-Farmington, could not be reached for comment.

According to documents obtained by the Post-Dispatch, the application would cost taxpayers nearly $800,000 over two years, as opposed to the current in-house program that Miller says is cost-efficient.

She said the cost would be the second most costly outsourced contract in the House budget.

I found the cost, however, at $388,000 annually, with a minimum two-year contract, to be prohibitive, Miller wrote in a memo the legislators. I also found the product to be a redundancy given the investment of time and resources that the House has expended to develop our current CM tool.

In her analysis, Miller also expressed concern that a feature on the Fireside program would allow lawmakers to export data obtained within their official capacity as a state representative to the campaign side of their jobs.

She also said under the current system data is stored on an internal database with its own unique internal security credentials and which is not connected to the web server to avoid this data being vulnerable to hacking.

In her memo, Miller said any upgraded services available through Fireside could be added to the Houses current set-up within four to five weeks or sooner in some cases.

The company did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Firesides product has been adopted in other states.

In Georgia, the Senate is using the app for its 56 members. Officials there say it assists legislative staff in addressing constituent needs.
JEFFERSON CITY  Missouri Attorney General Andrew Baileys admission that his office was hiring outside counsel to handle certain complex cases has ignited criticism from his political opponents.

Madeline Sieren, spokeswoman for Bailey, told the Post-Dispatch on Thursday in an email that we are outsourcing more complex cases to employment law attorneys as the office worked to form a new employment law unit to handle the cases.

Three candidates looking to unseat the incumbent attorney general, who took office in January and is running for a full term in 2024, took aim at that statement.

I think it speaks to a startling decline in capacity in that office since Bailey took over, Will Scharf, a Republican running against the incumbent in the GOP primary, said Monday. They just dont have enough lawyers to staff all these cases anymore.

Elad Gross, a Democrat running for attorney general, said the incumbent was failing taxpayers. Gross said if he became attorney general, he wouldnt mismanage the office so badly that we dont even get the most basic services from the office were all paying for.

State Rep. Sarah Unsicker, D-Shrewsbury, who is also running for attorney general, also took a swing at the Bailey pinata.

Taxpayers pay for a state law office. But is the job you do of the quality that they need to hire contractors to do your work? she asked.

Sieren, in response to the criticism, said Monday the attorney generals office is firing on all cylinders, pointing to Baileys court win last week affirming the states new law restricting transgender medical care and a court order barring the Biden administration from colluding with Big Tech social media companies.

Bailey also is taking credit for St. Louis Circuit Attorney Kimberly M. Gardners resignation in May.

He also managed to single-handedly pressure Circuit Attorney Kim Gardner into resigning, Sieren said.

But Gross tied the outsourcing of employment law cases to a list of other perceived failures since Bailey assumed office.

Among them:

 Baileys office has so far not announced any plans related to human trafficking after an office official told the Post-Dispatch on July 6 the agency was close to resetting the statewide anti-human trafficking efforts and promised more information in the coming weeks. On Monday, asked for an update, Sieren said Clifton Davis, recently hired as deputy attorney for special projects, will be heading up anti-human trafficking efforts.

 Citing a conflict of interest, Baileys office withdrew from a case in which two unregulated slot machine operators had sued the Highway Patrol in an attempt to end the state polices scrutiny of its games. Baileys campaign committee in March accepted $14,125 from groups tied to the operators lobbyist. Presented with similar conflict-of-interest concerns in 2021, former attorney general and current U.S. Sen. Eric Schmitt said he was returning the money  and stayed on to represent the state.

 Baileys refusal to sign off on an estimate by state Auditor Scott Fitzpatrick on an abortion referendums possible cost to the state if voters approved it. Baileys stance prompted a monthslong legal battle that delayed signature collection for the referendum by months.

Bailey defends office

The latter action the Democrat cited may not be a political loser: Bailey could earn plaudits from conservative Republican primary voters as the current attorney general faces off against Scharf in the August 2024 GOP primary.

Bailey, appointed after Schmitts election to the U.S. Senate last year, only approved the fiscal estimate after losing a case unanimously at the Missouri Supreme Court, forcing him to sign off.

No, certainly not, Bailey said Aug. 17 at the Missouri State Fair when asked if he knew he was overstepping his authority when he stalled the petition.

I read that statute, and it says that I have to approve as to content, he said. The word content has to mean something.

Questions about office operations have extended to Sunshine Law requests.

In response to a Post-Dispatch request for office organization charts, the attorney generals offices custodian of records said in a June 2 letter that the earliest possible date the records would be available is Dec. 5, 2023.

The letter said the office was processing 560 open requests and that it was processing them in the order received.

Yeah, we are processing Sunshine requests, Bailey said at the state fair.

My predecessors have left behind a legacy of excellence, he said of Schmitt and U.S. Sen. Josh Hawley, elected attorney general in 2016. Because of the great work that they did, theres a lot of attention on our office, Bailey said. And that resulted in a lot of Sunshine requests being filed.

Bailey also faced questions about his recent letter urging the U.S. House to hold a hearing on the federal governments role in radioactive waste pollution in the St. Louis area.

Bailey said in addition to the letter, he was standing with Hawley in pushing for legislation to compensate St. Louisans exposed to radioactive waste. But he promised no lawsuit against the Department of Energy, as some advocates had suggested he do.

All options are on the table, Bailey said. There needs to be a federal solution to that issue.

Scharf, Baileys Republican opponent, said the lack of a proactive stance from that office is a serious black mark on Andrew Baileys tenure.

Departures

Departures in the office have also generated questions.

Since Bailey took over in January, the attorney generals office has seen several high-profile resignations, including Solicitor General John Sauer, Deputy Solicitor General Michael Talent and Deputy Solicitor General Charles Capps.

It is disappointing and worrying that so many good conservatives have left that office in just a few short months, Scharf said in May.

But Sieren, the attorney generals office spokeswoman, said in May all three had made the decision to leave before Bailey was sworn in.

Since then, the office has logged more high-profile departures.

Former St. Louis County Judge Bill Corrigan, who left the bench to help run Baileys office, lasted seven full months in the office in a paid capacity. He is joining a private law firms St. Louis office in September but would continue to help Bailey in a volunteer capacity, the attorney generals office said last month.

Also departing is Maddie Green, a deputy attorney general for public policy who had worked on anti-human trafficking efforts for the office. (Crystal Atkinson, the former anti-human trafficking coordinator, was last paid in April.)

It was a privilege to serve alongside him (Bailey) as he worked relentlessly for all six million Missourians, Green said Monday in a statement. I look forward to continuing to serve as an unofficial adviser to General Bailey.

Sieren on Monday pointed to several recent hires, including four seasoned trial and appellate lawyers who have joined the solicitor team. She said each had several clerkships and had graduated from top legal schools.

In addition to Davis, the former deputy general counsel for Gov. Mike Parson, the office also recruited Jared Hankinson, another official with the governors office, to serve as deputy policy director, Sieren said.

Publicly available data indicates a long-term decrease in assistant attorneys general, the lawyers who make up much of the offices rank-and-file.

As of Nov. 1, there were 133 employees classified as assistant attorneys general, according to data provided by the Office of Administration.

That number of assistant attorneys general had fallen to 120 by May of this year, months after Bailey took office.

Editors note: An earlier version of this story said that four seasoned trial and appellate lawyers were hired just last week. Sieren clarified that those staff additions were made earlier.
ST. LOUIS  A push to save a crumbling city landmark is picking up steam.

City Hall is seeking architects to perform a full review of the Compton Hill Water Tower, a model of French-Romanesque design that has stood sentinel over the Shaw and Compton Heights neighborhoods for 125 years.

Recent history has not been kind: Ornamental stonework has been falling off in chunks. The observation deck and its million-dollar view have been closed for years. And there are fears that deeper structural problems may lurk beneath its facade.

But advocates say the new city-funded architectural study could kick-start a restoration. Neighbors have already started raising money to help cover costs, expected to run into the millions. The areas new alderwoman has pledged her support, too.

The water tower is an icon of south city, said Alderwoman Daniela Velazquez, of Shaw. We want to do everything we can to make sure it stays that way.

If neighbors and officials succeed, it would mark the latest revival in the structures long history.

The city water department built the tower in 1898 to prevent explosions: The water system at the time was prone to surges that could rupture pipes if unaddressed. The tower acted as a safety valve, taking in excess water and air from its neighboring reservoir to relieve the pressure.

But it was more than a cog in a machine. The walls of the stone and buff brick edifice were adorned with carvings of mythical animals and leaf patterns. Its spiral staircase led visitors to an observation deck with a 360-degree view of the city. A reported 5,000 people came through the tower and surrounding park during the 1904 Worlds Fair.

When water system upgrades made the tower obsolete in the late 1920s, it remained as a landmark for the neighborhoods north of Tower Grove Park. It became a city landmark in 1966, and won a place on the National Register of Historic Places in 1972.

There was a close call in the 1990s. The tower was badly cracked on its eastern side and had exposed asbestos inside. The neighboring reservoir, built in 1867, needed a pricey new roof. Officials considered demolition.

But neighbors showed up in force to public meetings, demanding preservation and offering to help pay for it. And in 1999, officials and donors gathered to celebrate a multimillion-dollar refresh.

Now neighborhood leaders say they need another round. Since at least 2015, the stonework that tops the base of the tower has been falling apart bit by bit, sending pieces of limestone and concrete falling to the ground. The damage after a particularly bad winter three years ago forced leaders to put the tours on indefinite hold for visitors' safety.

A recent study said if something wasnt done soon, the cost of restoration could become untenable, said Patty Taillon-Miller, president of the Water Tower Park and Preservation Society.

But after years of uncertainty, the city is moving in the right direction, Taillon-Miller said. The forthcoming study commissioned by the water department should give officials and preservation society leaders a clear understanding of whats wrong and how much it will cost to fix.

There is some concern about what the study might find. Phyllis Nolan, who has lived across the street from the towers park for 40 years, worried Monday that the cost estimate could be too much to bear.

But if the tower can be saved, she said, it will be worth it.

That tower tells the history of St. Louis, she said. And it tells the history of water in St. Louis.

The preservation society has raised about $100,000 so far, Taillon-Miller said. And shes confident more will be coming.

Our goal is make sure its still standing when its 250 years old, she said.

They should start with Steve Harris. The 69-year-old retiree lives just across the park from the tower. Hes helped with tours in the past.

And he said the view really is stunning.

You can see the JB bridge on a clear day, he said. Its neat.

Bids are due Sept. 15.
ST. LOUIS  Belleville native Capt. Eleanor LeBeau was one of three U.S. Marines killed Sunday in an aircraft crash during a training exercise in northern Australia, the Marine Corps announced Tuesday.

LeBeau, 29, was piloting a Marine V-22B Osprey with 23 Marines on board when it crashed Sunday in a tropical forest on an island north of Darwin. The service members were taking part in Exercise Predators Run, a drill that includes the militaries of Australia, Indonesia, the Philippines and East Timor.

LeBeau grew up in Belleville and graduated from Althoff Catholic High School in 2012 before attending Murray State University in Kentucky, according to school officials. She joined the Marines in August 2018 and became an Osprey pilot serving stints in Florida, Texas, North Carolina and Hawaii, according to the Marines.

The others killed in the crash Sunday were Cpl. Spencer R. Collart, 21, from Arlington, Virginia, and Maj. Tobin J. Lewis, 37, from Jefferson, Colorado. Of the other 20 Marines on board, three remained in Royal Darwin Hospital on Tuesday, one in critical condition and two stable, a Marines statement said.

Up to 2,500 U.S. Marines have been based in Darwin for six months a year since 2012 as part of the U.S. military pivot to Asia to counter Chinas growing influence in the region.

President Joe Biden said in a post to social media Tuesday: Jill and I send our deepest condolences to the families of the Marines who lost their lives in this deadly crash, Biden posted, referring to his wife Jill Biden. We are praying for those who also suffered injuries.

The Osprey is a hybrid aircraft that takes off and lands like a helicopter but during flight can tilt its propellers forward and cruise much faster like an airplane.

Before Sunday, there had been five fatal crashes of Marine Ospreys since 2012, causing a total of 16 deaths, according to The Associated Press.

Three Marines were killed when an Osprey plunged into the Coral Sea off Australias northeast coast in 2017. The remaining 23 people on board were rescued.

LeBeau received the National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, and Sea Service Deployment Ribbon during her time with the service.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.
ST. LOUIS  Following a period with relatively few COVID-19 cases, experts are cautioning St. Louis-area residents about a recent increase in infections  and recommend that they plan to get the updated COVID-19 vaccine booster when it is released in the coming weeks

The COVID infection numbers are rising, though case rates and hospitalizations are still well below the levels of previous surges. Doctors recommend that residents take stock of their test kits and consider what preventive measures they take in crowded settings.

Dr. Kanika Cunningham, director of the St. Louis County Department of Public Health, said especially people who are older, have weakened immune systems or are pregnant may want to return to wearing a mask in public or in crowds.

We have seen, over the last month, a slow, steady increase, said Dr. Hilary Babcock, infectious disease physician and chief quality officer for BJC HealthCare. I think its definitely time to take some precautions if you dont want to have COVID right now because there is just a lot floating around in the community.

St. Louis County reported a seven-day average of 106 cases on Friday  compared to the lowest level this summer, an average of 15 seen in June. Its a marked increase, though still well below the peaks in previous surges. The county hit an average of 442 cases during a wave last summer and 863 during the first winter of the pandemic, for example.

The region is armed with tools to prevent and treat COVID-19  from tests and masks to vaccines and medications. At the same time, it has become more difficult for residents to know when there is an increase in cases in their area.

Some of the health agencies that regularly published data on cases and hospitalizations have stopped. When they do, the numbers are often viewed as low estimates because of the widespread use of at-home tests, which arent usually reported to doctors. And since the public health emergency declaration for COVID-19 expired in May, some medical providers are no longer required to report test results to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Its hard for people to know when there really is an increase  and there really is an increase, Babcock said.

In wastewater data, Illinois shows rising levels of COVID-19 in many locations. Missouri shows stable virus levels in about two-thirds of its sewer testing locations and increases in about one-third.

So far in August, BJCs daily COVID census has averaged 37 patients  up from 16 in July. Mercy reported a daily average of 31 patients for August, in its hospitals in the St. Louis region, up from 17 in July.

Marc Johnson, a professor at the University of Missouri School of Medicine who is involved with the states wastewater testing efforts, said that while virus levels arent as high as previous surges, they are moving in the wrong direction.

It kind of reminds me of where we were last year, he said.

Experts said residents should make sure they have tests stocked up at home, and double-check expiration dates before throwing out test kits. In some cases, the Food and Drug Administration has extended the expiration dates beyond the ones printed on the boxes. People can check the FDA website to see if their kit can still be used.

Babcock said its unclear whether COVID-19 is slipping into a more predictable, seasonal pattern. During the pandemic there have usually been surges in summer and more extreme surges in winter.

We have a few years experience to go on, and each year has been a little different, Babcock said.

The county health department gives out test kits for free at its three health clinics and at some libraries. People who are symptomatic or require assistance can go to the John C. Murphy Health Center at 6121 North Hanley Road, park in one of the designated parking spots on the left side of the building, and call the number posted on the sign. More information is available on the department website.
ST. CHARLES COUNTY  A controversial housing development will not be built in unincorporated St. Charles County, but the project could still be built on the same plot of land if the developer follows through on earlier indications that he would ask OFallon, Missouri, to change its city boundaries.

St. Charles County Council members said they expect the developer to pursue the move, which would allow OFallon to annex the land and make it part of the city.

The council unanimously voted Monday to reject KM Investment Group IVs request to rezone the land, garnering a standing ovation from dozens of St. Charles County residents who packed the meeting room after complaining for months about the density of housing proposed in the project.

Attention on the project now shifts to city officials in OFallon, where the developer is expected to ask the council to annex land for the 298-acre, 452-home project, known as Tall Tree, off of Highway DD in a largely rural part of western St. Charles County.

We know the fight isnt over. We are shifting our focus to educating the leadership of the city of OFallon on the deep flaws of this development and have prepared a robust legal challenge should that be required, said William Bill Carrier, a spokesperson for Citizens for Smart Growth, a grassroots organization with 1,400 members who oppose the development.

Brad Goss, an attorney for the developer, said at a meeting in June that his client was considering asking OFallon to annex the land because the city has less restrictive zoning laws.

Goss said Tuesday that his client is still evaluating their options following the councils decision.

I believe the plan complied with the countys Master Plan, and believe the rezoning request should have been approved, said Goss, who declined to elaborate on what options his client was considering.

OFallon officials said the earliest the annexation request could appear before the citys zoning commission is in October. If the request is not filed by Friday, the commission wont hear the developers request until November.

According to county officials, the developer would need to wait until August 2024 before submitting a new proposal if OFallon declines to annex the land and it remains part of unincorporated St. Charles County.

Plans for the Tall Tree development were first released in June, and they were almost immediately panned by nearby property owners and wildlife advocates. Neighbors said the development would alter the rural landscape by adding hundreds of homes built on lots of less than one-sixth of an acre apiece.

Others worried about traffic congestion, soil contamination, and potential environmental impacts on the nearby August A. Busch Memorial Conservation Area. The subdivision, which would include all single-family homes, has been described by county officials as the largest housing development built in unincorporated St. Charles County in recent years.

Confronted by the significant opposition from neighbors who filled the St. Charles Family Arena for meetings of the countys planning and zoning commission, the developer amended plans to build fewer homes on less acreage. However, the density of the homes was largely unchanged  a sticking point for neighbors like Steven Farber.

We are not anti-growth. We understand that homes will eventually be built on the property, but we want any homebuilder to abide by the countys zoning. This request was to allow the developer to go from the lowest housing density to the highest housing density, and thats not right, said Farber, who attended Monday nights meeting.

Farber has been an outspoken critic of the proposed development, speaking at numerous meetings and helping organize his fellow neighbors against the project.

It is not a matter of fact that this is going to pass in OFallon, Farber said. We know there are people in OFallon who are opposed to this project as well and do not want to see this property annexed into the city. This isnt over.
Hesitant as we are to dismiss any idea that might make a dent in St. Louis gun-violence crisis, Mayor Tishaura O. Jones new proposal to rid the citys streets of military-grade weaponry appears to have already misfired.

The problem is three-fold:

The idea as originally described was a reasonable plan but one that, on its face, plainly violated Missouris unreasonably lax gun laws, with no blueprint for surviving a court challenge.

When the legislative language was subsequently released, the second problem became clear: It doesnt do what Jones initially said it would but mainly just echoes existing federal law regarding fully automatic weapons, which (problem No. 3) arent even significant drivers of the citys gun violence.

Not to overwork the firearms metaphors, but the administration needs to take another shot at this. One suggestion would be for the mayor to organize and lead a ballot-referendum effort to bring some sanity to Missouris state gun laws.

The root of the problem is a Republican-controlled Legislature that has spent the past decade rolling back almost every reasonable firearm restriction the state once had. Today, virtually anyone in Missouri can buy a gun from a private dealer with no criminal background check required and can carry that gun in most public places, open or concealed, with no permit necessary.

As this situation has developed in recent years, Missouris gun-death rate has risen to among the highest in the nation. Yes, St. Louis accounts for much of that mayhem, but the state is stubbornly preventing the city from confronting the flood of guns at the core of it.

St. Louis scored a small victory against this madness earlier this month with a new ordinance that requires people who openly carry guns in the city to have a permit and allows police to request to see it. It exploits a loophole in a state law that otherwise allows open carry with no permit. Jones was initially slow to back the idea (which was the brainchild of Alderwoman Cara Spencer, a Jones political adversary), but she signed it into law Aug. 3.

As important as it is to build upon that success, Jones announcement last week of a new initiative to get military-grade weapons off the streets felt less like building than pretending to build.

She said the measure would go after AR-15- and AK-47-style weapons, which are semi-automatic rifles commonly used in mass shootings. That includes last years shooting that killed a student and teacher on the shared campus of Central Visual Arts and Performing Arts High School and Collegiate School of Medicine & Bioscience.

In unveiling the proposal last week, Jones acknowledged that she expected state Republicans to push back  a given considering that, ludicrous as it is, state law allows utterly unfettered access to these weapons to pretty much anyone. Unlike Spencers earlier legislation, which offered a specific course around the states general prohibition on local gun laws, Jones appeared to suggest the city would simply pass this clearly illegal restriction and then try to defend it in court.

As if on cue, Republican legislators lashed out at the idea of this or any firearms restrictions in St. Louis. In hindsight, they could have saved their breath.

The legislative language for Jones idea was released the next day, and all it effectively does in the realm of firearms restrictions is endorse already-strict federal regulations on fully automatic weapons  machine guns  as well as short-barreled rifles or shotguns and silencers.

Most gun crimes are committed with handguns; nationally, they account for almost two-thirds of all firearms homicides. AR-15s, AK-47s and similar rifles that are semi-automatic (one round is fired with each trigger pull) kill far fewer people but are central to the gun debate because of how often they are used in mass shootings.

Theres a reason that debate generally ignores fully automatic machine guns, which spray multiple rounds when the shooter holds in the trigger: They arent a significant factor in murders or other crimes here or nationally. Thats because of strong federal restrictions on their manufacture, sale and possession, as well as heavy penalties for violations.

Americas success at preventing an epidemic of machine-gun violence, even as it endures mass violence from less-restricted weapons, puts the lie to the gun lobbys claim that gun restrictions cant work. They can and, in the case of machine guns, they have for decades.

Which makes it all the more head-scratching that this, of all issues, is where the mayors new proposed ordinance is focused.

Jones initially said her plan would also focus on stopping minors from getting guns. That this even has to be discussed is still more evidence of the ideological extremism that has gripped the Legislature on this topic. In the last legislative session, lawmakers killed a measure calling to restrict the carrying of firearms by children.

Jones legislation would address that issue by  nixing the possibility of jail time for kids caught with guns. Instead, it specifies fines of up to $500 and a sentence of community service. Americas problem with over-incarceration, especially for kids, is a legitimate debate to have, but its difficult to see how mandated light sentencing for firearms violations qualifies as getting tough about guns on the streets.

In fairness to Jones, Missouri law doesnt leave a lot of options for mayors who want to address this crisis. Which is why a more productive strategy would be to change state law.

There is little indication that the intransigent gun fetishists who control Missouri government are movable on this issue. But polls show the public is amenable to universal background checks, so-called red flag laws, permit requirements for carrying and other commonsense ideas.

The Missouri public has already overruled their extremist state Legislature on issues like marijuana and the minimum wage  and those lawmakers see the threat of an abortion-rights referendum as so significant that theyre trying to change the voting rules.

Jones bully pulpit would be put to better use by organizing political allies in Kansas City and elsewhere and leading an effort to confront St. Louis gun-violence crisis at its source: Jefferson City. Shooting legislative blanks in City Hall wont help.
Regarding "Mayor aims to ban AR-15s,AK-47s" and the editorial "Jailing parents for kids' school absences is counterproductive and wrong" (both Aug. 23): I know I'll sound like an old NRA slogan, but guns don't kill people, people do. Children and young adults obviously have a way to acquire these guns. That should be the issue. If they get them from their parent or family members, they and the family members should both face the consequences. Parents should be held accountable for the actions of their kids.

Yes, getting kids to go to school is an issue, but I don't see that as a criminal issue. Having kids on the streets with weapons is.

I spoke with a city police officer after the shooting incident on Washington Ave. in June ("Teen charged in mass shooting during downtown St. Louis party," Aug. 4) and asked what happens to the gun after these shooters are apprehended. I was told that if the rightful owner shows up with the necessary paperwork, they get the weapon back. Are you kidding me?

If people will not or cannot secure that weapon and it is used in that manner, it should be removed from their possession. That's what I learned as a Boy Scout in firearms classes taught by NRA-trained leaders. I agree with Mayor Tishaura Jones that the concealed-carry restrictions need to be reinstated, but she missed the mark on banning the gun instead of the criminal.

Tom Taylor  St. Louis
"Glory to Hong Kong" is, to most of the world, just a song. But to residents of Hong Kong, it is a protest  and to the Chinese Communist Party, it is a threat. U.S. technology companies might soon have to decide whether to help quash it.

The Hong Kong government is appealing a July decision by a local court to deny its request for an injunction preventing "Glory to Hong Kong" from being published or otherwise distributed by any means and on any platform. According to the state, the lyrics to the unofficial pro-democracy protest anthem ("Liberate our Hong Kong, in common breath; Revolution of our times!") "stir up emotions."

Authorities have already jailed citizens for playing the song. Now it wants to scrub it from the entire internet: to force Meta, X, Spotify and especially Google, which refused to remove the song from its platforms without a court order, to censor it.

The companies should reply to any court order with "no." Meta, Google and their peers admittedly find themselves in a tortured position. They can either help erase "Glory to Hong Kong" from the internet, or they can let it stand and risk being barred from Hong Kong entirely, as many of them already are throughout the rest of China.

In Hong Kong, this dispute is itself more evidence that the city is approaching a tipping point. Two of the remaining bulwarks against autocracy in the nation were judicial independence (which China has disavowed) and a free internet (in contrast to China's Great Firewall); a victory for the government in this case would mean the diminishment of both. This, in turn, would be a signal to companies who prefer to do business without betraying their values that the city is no longer a friendly hub for foreign investment. Hong Kong's leaders might want to be careful what they wish for.
CUPERTINO, CA / ACCESSWIRE / August 29, 2023 / Boardwalktech Software Corp ("Boardwalktech" or the "Company") (TSXV:BWLK)(OTCQB: BWLKF), the leading Digital Ledger application platform and enterprise software applications company, today announced that it will be presenting at the Planet MicroCap Showcase: VANCOUVER 2023 on Wednesday, September 6, 2023 at 10 AM (Local Time -PST). President and Chief Executive Officer Andy Duncan will be hosting the presentation and answering questions at the conclusion.

To access the live presentation, please use the following information:

Planet MicroCap Showcase: VANCOUVER 2023

Date: Wednesday, September 6, 2023

Time: 1 PM Eastern Time (10 AM Pacific Time)

Webcast: https://www.webcaster4.com/Webcast/Page/2986/48809

If you would like to book 1x1 investor meetings with Boardwalktech, and to attend the Planet MicroCap Showcase: VANCOUVER 2023, please make sure you are registered here: https://planetmicrocapshowcase.com/signup

1x1 meetings will be scheduled and conducted in person at the conference venue: Fairmont Waterfront Vancouver (BC).

The Planet MicroCap Showcase: VANCOUVER 2023 website is available here: https://planetmicrocapshowcase.com/

If you can't make the live presentation, all company presentations "webcasts" will be available directly on the conference event platform on this link under the tab "Agenda": https://planetmicrocapshowcase.com/agenda

News Compliments of Accesswire

About Boardwalktech Software Corp.

Boardwalktech has developed a patented Digital Ledger Technology Platform currently used by Fortune 500 companies running mission-critical applications worldwide. Boardwalktech's digital ledger technology and its unique method of managing vast amounts of structured and unstructured data is the only platform on the market today where multiple parties can effectively work on the same data simultaneously while preserving the fidelity and provenance of the data. Boardwalktech can deliver collaborative, purpose-built enterprise information management applications on any device or user interface with full integration with enterprise systems of record in a fraction of the time it takes other non-digital ledger technology-based platforms. Boardwalktech is headquartered in Cupertino, California with offices in India and operations in North America. For more information on Boardwalktech, visit our website at www.boardwalktech.com.

About Planet MicroCap

Planet MicroCap is a global multimedia financial news, publishing and events company focused on news dissemination, providing information, data and analytics for the MicroCap investing community. We have cultivated an active and engaged audience of folks that are interested in learning about and to stay ahead of the curve in the MicroCap space.

If you would like to attend the Planet MicroCap Showcase, please register here: https://planetmicrocapshowcase.com/signup

Contact:

Name: Charlie Glavin - Chief Financial Officer

Phone: +1-650-618-6163

Email: [email protected]

SOURCE: Boardwalktech via Planet MicroCap

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China Dasheng Biotechnology Co. OTC-CDBT (to be renamed Cycclone Magnetic Engines, Inc.)

ARUNDEL, QUEENSLAND, AUSTRALIA / ACCESSWIRE / August 29, 2023 / China Dasheng Biotechnology Co. (OTC PINK:CDBT) announces founder, shareholder and stakeholder approval for all Cycclone Magnetic Engine related technology and intellectual property to become housed under China Dasheng Biotechnology, Co. (to be renamed Cycclone Magnetic Engines, Inc.)

Through the month of August 2023, documents have been signed by founders, shareholders, and stakeholders to formalize the bringing together of the various subsidiaries and intellectual property associated with Cycclone Magnetic Engines being vested into CDBT.

Added to this, 2 shareholder meetings were held, one at the Yatala transport facility and the other at the Bangalow small component facility with a "show of hands vote", which was unanimous at both meetings.

On Sunday July 30, 2023, over 160 shareholders attended a meeting at the Yatala, Queensland, Australia transport facility.

In line with yard safety rules, all attendees were issued hi-vis safety vests branded in our company logos.

At the meetings, CEO Micheal Nugent spoke about bringing together the 3 challenges in front of the company.

1. Corporate Presentation:

CDBT as a "custodian" company acquisition is being brought back to market compliance and continuous disclosure regulations through assembling a strong corporate division. Added to this division, advisors have been sourced and it is envisaged that a 15c2-11 compliance form will be filed soon.

2. Intellectual Property Capture:

As disclosed in the press release of 11/15/2022, Cycclone Magnetic Engines has always acknowledged that the base principal is "unproven technology" and while many other components and new engine configurations have been captured as novel and patentable, the timing of filing patents is strategic and critical to strong capture of the associated intellectual property. As the company becomes stronger corporately and commercially, the various patents slated for filing claims will be acted on.

3. Current and Ongoing Operations:

As disclosed in the press release of 01/23/2023, suitable properties were sourced and leased in Bangalow, New South Wales, Australia, and the small component development facilities were fitted out and opened. Since opening the Bangalow facilities, new machinery and tooling have been installed and commissioned. CEO Micheal Nugent talked about how important it is to keep operations in all areas growing while the other divisions carry out their work.

On Sunday 6 August 2023, over 140 shareholders attended a meeting at the Bangalow, New South Wales, Australia small component development facilities.

A "show of hands" vote was unanimous for the bringing together of the subsidiaries and intellectual property of Cycclone Magnetic Engines.

/S/ Micheal Nugent

CEO of CDBT

# # #

CDBT. Cycclone Magnetic Engines, Inc.

On April 24, 2023, CDBT entered a Share Exchange Agreement to acquire all of the outstanding shares in Cycclone Magnetic Engines, Inc., the original founding company of the Cycclone Magnetic Engine project.

On September 30, 2022, CDBT and Cycclone Magnetic Engine Developments Limited entered into an Operating Agreement for The Amended Share Exchange Agreement giving effective control of Cycclone Magnetic Engine Developments Limited and the wholly owned subsidiaries.

Cycclone Magnetic Engines is engaged in the development and commercialization of new geometric configuration low carbon emission engines and other clean technology solutions with a view to create technologies that improve efficiency and reduce levels of greenhouse emissions. Cycclone has shareholding, assets, and interests in transport operations in Australia.

Micheal Nugent

[email protected]

www.cdbtcycclone.com (to be published)

USA +1 775-580-4544

AUS +61 438 158 688

Safe Harbor Statement

Statements made in this press release are forward-looking and are made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Risk factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those projected in forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, general business conditions, managing growth, and political and other business risks.

SOURCE: China Dasheng Biotechnology Co.

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Clean Air Metals to Host a Live, Interactive Investor Webinar

THUNDER BAY, ON / ACCESSWIRE / August 29, 2023 / Clean Air Metals Inc. ("Clean Air Metals" or the "Company") (TSXV:AIR); (FRA:CKU); (OTCQB: CLRMF) is pleased to announce new magnetic inversion results from the Company's Thunder Bay North Critical Minerals Project near Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada (the "Project").

The Thunder Bay North Critical Minerals Project hosts an indicated resource of 13.8Mt containing 1.2M ounces of 2PGE (Pt+Pd), 56,800 tonnes of Cu and 33,800 tonnes of Ni between the twin magmatic intrusions (chonoliths) known as the Current and Escape deposits. The Escape deposit contains 5.8Mt grading 2.6g/t 2PGE (Pt+Pd), 0.52% Cu and 0.22% Ni, as announced May 3rd, 2023. The bulk of this mineralization is hosted in the high-grade zone (HGZ) occurring in the south-eastern portion of the currently drill defined intrusion. Mineralization remains open to the southeast.

A magnetic inversion case study was executed along the trend of the Escape chonolith and the intersection of the Escape fault to the southeast, to model the potential down plunge extension of the deposit. The study was successful in identifying a volume of material with high magnetic susceptibility at depth, along the plunge of the Escape intrusion. The magnetic inversion model has an estimated top of ~650m below surface with a vertical extent of ~800m and estimated width of 500m and centred ~2000m ESE of the most eastern intersection of peridotite from the Escape drill program (ELR20-034). The entirety of this plunge potential is currently untested.

A larger geophysical inversion program using existing datasets has recently been initiated. Joint inversions of the magnetic, magnetotelluric (MT) and Z-TEM data will be completed for an area of ~80km2 which covers the Thunder Bay North Intrusive complex. The magnetic susceptibility and conductivity products from these inversions will be utilized to target the intrusions and potential mineralization hosted within at depth.

Geoff Heggie, VP Exploration commented: "The location and size of this magnetic anomaly is a logical down plunge extension of the Escape intrusion and fits with the genesis theory of these intrusions where mineral bearing magma was injected at high pressure from depth. The further refinement of this anomaly by the recently commissioned geophysical inversion program will establish the targets for the next phase of diamond drilling which is expected to commence early in 2024".

Methodology: Two magnetic inversion models were completed by EarthEX utilizing data from a 2010 ground survey and a 2008 airborne magnetic survey data. The 2008 airborne survey was completed by UTS Geophysics, utilizing a fixed wing PAC-750XL plane with three Geometrics G822A cesium vapour total field magnetometers in conjunction with a fluxgate three component vector magnetometer. The survey was carried out on 40m spaced lines and a nominal sensor height of 30m. Magnetic inversions were run on both data sets as unconstrained and generated similar results (Fig. 1) which identified a volume of material with high magnetic susceptibility at depth, along the plunge of the Escape intrusion.

Figure 1A: Plan view of the Escape chonolith (purple), the interpreted strike of the Escape fault (teal) and magnetic inversion model of the 2008 airborne magnetic data (Blue). Magnetic inversion model is filtered to shown blocks with highest magnetic susceptibility. Figure 1B: Long section view of the Escape chonolith (purple) with the high magnetic susceptibility model down plunge to the right (blue).

Permitting

The early exploration permitting process for the next phase of exploration drilling was submitted in May 2023 and has received support from the three proximate First Nations communities upon whose traditional territory the Thunder Bay North project lies and from the two potentially affected Metis communities. The Ministry of Mines is currently consulting with one final Indigenous group and the Company expects the permits to be issued later this fall.

Receipt of Final Metallurgical Test Report

On August 22nd the Company received the final report from Base Metallurgical labs for the completed Phase Two metallurgical test program (see press release dated June 29, 2023). The test program was completed using large diameter core samples from both the Current and Escape deposits to produce 3 composites and 17 variability samples. The test program comprised a suite of 80 open circuit development tests, 8 locked cycle flotation tests and follow-up variability tests. Modelled recoveries are shown in Table 1 (below). These were generated using estimated head grades and the recovery curves derived from the Phase Two test program.

Table 1: Modelled recoveries

Near Surface High Grade Zones (Early Years Mining)

Pt Pd Cu Ni Au Ag % Recovery 80.6% 86.2% 95.9% 57.0% 85.0% 65.2% Head Grade 1.58 g/t 1.61 g/t 0.45 % 0.24 % 0.11 g/t 2.77 g/t

Remaining Zones (Later Mining)

Pt Pd Cu Ni Au Ag % Recovery 77.6% 85.0% 95.4% 55.5% 85.0% 65.2% Head Grade 1.18 g/t 1.30 g/t 0.41 % 0.23 % 0.10 g/t 2.52 g/t

Optimal results were achieved with bulk flotation, followed by a copper-nickel separation process which resulted in a simple flowsheet and improved overall recovery of metals in two concentrates. The modelled concentrate grade outlined the potential for a clean copper concentrate grading 22% Cu, 38 g/t Pt+Pd and a PGE Ni-rich concentrate grading 50 g/t Pt+Pd and 3.75% Ni. In addition, the results of three multi-element scans of the concentrates did not identify problematic abundances of deleterious elements. A preliminary assessment of concentrate marketability was completed and identified that the projected concentrates produced, were marketable with interest and indicative terms received from several domestic and overseas smelters.

Market Commentary

With four critical metals as potentially payable in its concentrate, the Company is well positioned to take advantage of the pending metals price super cycle predicted by many analysts to supply the green energy revolution. Climate related events over the last few years have awoken the world to the effects of climate change and the need to transition away from fossil fuels as quickly as possible. Almost every major government is injecting significant financial incentives into the green energy transition. Were it not for a generally slower global economy, most significantly China's slowing economy, we would perhaps already be entering a metals price super cycle.

Of particular importance to Clean Air Metals, but not fully recognized yet by the markets, is the important role that platinum will play in the green hydrogen economy. Hydrogen is expected to be the fuel that replaces carbon-based energy in planes, ships, trains, long distance trucking and the remainder of the heavy transportation industry. In addition, steel manufacturing and other heavy industry, currently reliant on fossil fuels will have to transition to hydrogen.

The production of green hydrogen through electrolysis utilizes platinum in the electrodes to improve efficiency and resist corrosion. Likewise, hydrogen fuel cells use a platinum-based membrane to generate electricity from hydrogen. The platinum market globally is very small with only about 6 million ounces of primary production per year, almost 90% of which comes from South Africa with its inherent supply risk.

Jim Gallagher, CEO of Clean Air Metals stated: "The Thunder Bay North project remains one of the very few and very rare platinum projects outside of Africa. The project development timeline of further exploration, permitting, technical studies and project construction potentially aligns with the growth of the hydrogen economy and potential metals price appreciation. We continue to prudently manage our cash resources and still advance the Project. Equity markets in general are currently very difficult for most of the junior mining sector and the Company does not currently intend to do any dilutive financing at these low valuations. We currently have approximately $8 million in cash, sufficient to support currently planned activities well into 2024. We do continue to investigate potential strategic partners who share the Company's long-term view on the platinum market and who potentially would partner with the Company moving forward."

Upcoming Events

Webinar and Q&A session: September 6, 2023 at 4pm ET

Beaver Creek Precious Metals Summit: September 12-15, 2023

Qualified Person

Dr. Geoff Heggie, Ph.D., P.Geo., a Qualified Person under National Instrument 43-101 and Vice President, Exploration for the Company, has reviewed and approved all technical information in this press release.

Indigenous Community Social and Economic Engagement

Clean Air Metals Inc. and its wholly owned subsidiary Panoramic PGMs (Canada) Ltd. acknowledge that the Thunder Bay North Project is on the traditional territories of the Fort William First Nation, Red Rock First Nation and Biinjitiwabik Zaaging Anishinabek. The parties together are the Cooperating Participants in a Memorandum of Agreement dated January 9, 2021 (press release January 11, 2021) and Exploration Agreement signed April 13, 2022 (press release April 14, 2022).

The Company appreciates the opportunity to work in these territories and remains committed to the recognition and respect of those who have lived, traveled, and gathered on the lands since time immemorial. Clean Air Metals is committed to stewarding Indigenous heritage and remains committed to building, fostering and encouraging a respectful relationship with First Nations, Mtis and Inuit peoples based upon principles of mutual trust, respect, reciprocity and collaboration in the spirit of reconciliation.

About Clean Air Metals Inc.

Clean Air Metals' flagship asset is the 100% owned, high grade Thunder Bay North Critical Minerals Project, a platinum, palladium, copper, nickel project located near the City of Thunder Bay, Ontario and the Lac des Iles Mine owned by Impala Platinum. The Thunder Bay North Critical Minerals Project hosts the Current and Escape deposits, twin magma conduits which form the basis for the new mineral resource estimate reported on May 4, 2023.

CEO Jim Gallagher and COO Mike Garbutt lead an experienced technical team who are using a orthomagmatic mineral deposit model to guide ongoing exploration and development studies for a potential mine development on the Project. As the former CEO of North American Palladium Ltd. which owned the Lac des Iles Mine prior to the sale to Impala Platinum in December 2019, Jim Gallagher and team are credited with the mine turnaround and creation of significant value for shareholders.

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS

"Jim Gallagher"

Jim Gallagher, Chief Executive Officer of Clean Air Metals Inc.

For further information, please contact:

Jim Gallagher, Chief Executive Officer of Clean Air Metals Inc.

Phone: 705-690-7997

Email: [email protected]

Website: www.cleanairmetals.ca

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Cautionary Note

The information contained herein contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of applicable securities legislation, including statements regarding the potential of the Thunder Bay North Project and the Escape and Current deposits and timing of technical studies including prefeasibility studies and updated mineral resource estimates. Forward-looking statements relate to information that is based on assumptions of management, forecasts of future results, and estimates of amounts not yet determinable. Any statements that express predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions or future events or performance are not statements of historical fact and may be "forward-looking statements." Forward-looking statements are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties which could cause actual events or results to differ from those reflected in the forward-looking statements, including, without limitation: political and regulatory risks associated with mining and exploration; risks related to the maintenance of stock exchange listings; risks related to environmental regulation and liability; the potential for delays in exploration or development activities or the completion of feasibility studies; the uncertainty of profitability; risks and uncertainties relating to the interpretation of drill results, the geology, grade and continuity of mineral deposits; risks related to the inherent uncertainty of production and cost estimates and the potential for unexpected costs and expenses; results of prefeasibility and feasibility studies, and the possibility that future exploration, development or mining results will not be consistent with the Company's expectations; risks related to commodity price fluctuations; and other risks and uncertainties related to the Company's prospects, properties and business detailed elsewhere in the Company's disclosure record. Should one or more of these risks and uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those described in forward-looking statements. Investors are cautioned against attributing undue certainty to forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date hereof and the Company does not assume any obligation to update or revise them to reflect new events or circumstances, except in accordance with applicable securities laws. Actual events or results could differ materially from the Company's expectations or projection.

SOURCE: Clean Air Metals, Inc.

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NORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / August 29, 2023 / Cisco Systems Inc.



This blog was prepared with deep thanks to Cisco employee volunteer Haitham Al-Shabibi.

Climate change is an issue we can't solve alone, yet it seems like very few of those working to solve it have a big picture view of who is already working on what or where their work fits into the broader solutions landscape. Without a collaborative approach, effectiveness of private philanthropic and impact investment capital is severely limited. Climate funders need transparency, effective tools, and a holistic view of the landscape in order to make better decisions to set high-impact priorities.

The Climate Finance Tracker (CFT) is a suite of visual interfaces engineered by Vibrant Data Labs (VDL), an organization housed in Berkeley, California, that combines data and network theory into flexible tools, to tackle systemic social challenges like climate change. The CFT visualizes climate funding flows to organizations and companies on the ground. What started as a simple United States finance tracker is now poised to scale into Europe, Africa, and Latin America.

In 2021, VDL became a recipient of a grant via Cisco Foundation's Climate Impact & Regeneration commitment to build out an initial prototype of the CFT. Since launching the CFT fall of 2022 in partnership with One Earth & Impact Alpha, they have been overwhelmed by the positive response. It has led to active collaborations with Climate Policy Initiative, ClimateWorks Foundation, Elemental Excelerator, Forbes, Global Commons Alliance, Summit Impact, and TED.

The partnership between Vibrant Data Labs and Cisco Foundation is built on the shared belief that by building capacity, improving transparency, and supporting funders and decision makers, efforts addressing the climate crisis can be much more effective.

We recently caught up with Eric Berlow, founder of Vibrant Data Labs and co-creator of the CFT, who was awarded an Emerson Collective Climate Fellowship. He shared more about his background, philosophy, and goals.

Can you tell us a bit more about your background?

Eric: Yes, so I have a PhD in marine ecology and in particular I work to understand nature as a complex system. You can't do that kind of work in nature without being able to deal with noisy data and statistics, so as a result I had to develop a strong background in data science and network theory.

I worked in Yosemite National Park for five years for the University of California running a research institute, trying to bridge science, policy, and natural resource management for evidence-based decision making. We had a big, collaborative project synthesizing satellite and on-the-ground data to predict where threatened amphibian species were breeding. The data helped prioritize where limited park resources should be allocated to protect the species.

How does your background in ecology help inform the CFT?

Eric: Well, that is exactly how the CFT works - we use data to see the big picture and to help prioritize where funding efforts should go, given that resources are limited.

Another way to think about it is: If you map out who eats who in an ecosystem, you have complex flows of energy that comprise an entire food web. Turns out, those network structures are not random. They're really critical for how those systems persist, and why they don't crash. Instead of analyzing who eats whom, we're using the same statistics to analyze who funds whom. Now, we have a funding ecosystem.

My passion over the past decade has been thinking about how ecological theory can inform solutions to complex problems, like climate. It requires a big picture of understanding multiple causality. There is no one silver bullet, there's no one moon shot.

If you could sum up what the CFT is trying to solve, what would it be?

Eric: The public CFT is a visual Rolodex. It's about overcoming myopia, which I think is the root cause of so many of those complex problems. But the main goal is to promote discovery and foster collaboration so people can see who's doing what, avoid duplication, and fill in gaps where funding is missing.

We are also hoping to help people see that the success of an investment is dependent on other investments, too. Let's say you have great investments with electric vehicles (EVs), but not with chargers or grid upgrades, that investment could fail. It will be critical to fill those gaps.

At the end of the day, we want to make it easy for someone to poke around and paint a picture of where money is flowing in different climate spaces.

You mentioned "silver bullets" and "funding gaps," can you explain this a bit further?

Eric: Imagine you are in a community that is trying to grow a tree. You know it needs sun, water, nitrogen and phosphorous to grow. If any one of these is missing, it dies. If everybody just gives it water, it dies. Everyone needs to know what that tree is getting, and what is missing. The most important thing to contribute is always whatever is missing.

Here in the US, we have a "silver bullet" mentality, where one thing will solve it. This idea of, Just give the tree water, and it lives', which isn't the case. Let's take the renewable energy and mobility transition. You could have great investments in renewable power generation like solar and electric vehicles. But if you don't have upgrades in distribution through our aging grid, it doesn't matter. If you don't have your charging infrastructure, it won't work, and those other investments fail.

It wasn't until pulling together data on who is funding what and where that I realized what a huge opportunity for impact is this issue of filling gaps. If one thing is missing, we fail. If we want to have an impact, we need to find where funding is lacking. And the only way to find those gaps is to see where the money is flowing.

To identify those gaps, you'd have to have tags and categories in the first place, correct? How does that work?

Eric: We currently start with philanthropy and investment data from Candid and Crunchbase (with more on the way!). We then gather, from online sources, more data on how the grantees and investees describe their work. This allows us then - using various methods, including natural language processing and machine learning - to categorize the organizations and let them self-organize into themes - all based around who is working on similar things.

A key challenge has been to develop a method for searching for climate relevant' investments and grants. To do that we start with broad topic searches - for things like climate' and agriculture,' but then we need to filter these results because not all agricultural solutions are climate-positive, or some may mention climate' but in the wrong context. To do that we manually review a random subset of the results and use that to fine-tune' a Large Language Model to identify in the remaining results which are actually relevant to climate - for example, companies that are addressing things like regeneration, soil health, and sustainable water usage.

Can you give an example of a helpful action that can be done with CFT data?

Eric: Yes! Let's stick with food systems and agriculture. If you're new to the space, the CFT allows you to see who is funding regenerative agriculture. More so, you can use those tags to see who, and what, is being funded. This is how we improve transparency and increase efficiency. If you're looking for funding - or if you are a funder who is new to a topic - you can quickly see who you should be talking to!

We can also go deeper to see where organizations mention language related to social equity and justice. For example, who states an intent to address energy poverty in low-income and rural communities. We can see financial flows into community-based conservation, restoration of land and community resiliency, equitable resourcing for the clean energy transition, and the intersection of climate solutions with general livelihood improvement.

We can help optimize funding and investments so resources can better flow to high-quality organizations, initiatives, or companies that are traditionally overlooked or underserved by the existing financial system.

Really it just comes down to the fact that engaging communities in the solution is actually the solution. It's not just a moral thing to do, to improve the livelihoods of vulnerable communities, but it's how you can truly scale and build out markets. For example, if you support energy independence for everyone, it creates more demand for electric mobility, which creates more demand for charging infrastructure, and so on.

What parting thoughts would you say to people who are interested in the CFT?

Eric: Part of our goal with the CFT was to show that climate solutions are not just solar panels and electric cars, those are just tiny corners of the landscape. If we can move beyond that silver bullet mentality, we can see that there are so many ways to contribute: you don't need to become an electrical engineer.

We want to change the conversation, bring a positive tone that brings everyone along. There are so many things we can do to help more people. Of course, we'll have to make sacrifices, but how cool is it that we get to build a whole new world? We get to make a renewable and regenerative transition. And we have to do it together.

It doesn't matter how well-funded one company is, it will never solve every climate problem.

It doesn't matter how rich one donor is, they will never solve it alone.

It doesn't matter how big an investment fund is, it never will work alone.

We need to empower everyone to be part of the solution.

With thanks to Eric Berlow and Vibrant Data Labs for sharing their story with us, we invite you to learn more about the Climate Finance Tracker here!

View original content here

View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from Cisco Systems Inc. on 3blmedia.com.

Contact Info:

Spokesperson: Cisco Systems Inc.

Website: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/cisco-systems-inc

Email: [email protected]

SOURCE: Cisco Systems Inc.

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NORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / August 29, 2023 / CNH Industrial, Khon Kaen Higher College of Agricultural Technology, and Mitr Phol Group recently signed a milestone agreement to drive innovation and excellence in agricultural education across Thailand. The three parties committed to provide Thai students with world-class education, leveraging cutting-edge technology and private sector expertise.

Highlighting the significance of the tripartite agreement, Mark Brinn, Managing Director of CNH Industrial for Southeast Asia and Japan, said, "We're honored to partner with Khon Kaen Higher College of Agricultural Technology and Mitr Phol Group. This initiative underpins our shared goals of promoting sustainable agriculture and empowering local communities."

CNH Industrial has donated an Austoft 4000 sugarcane harvester to Khon Kaen Higher College of Agricultural Technology for use in practical training. The company also committed to establishing a Case IH Training Centre at the school to strengthen hands-on training in modern farm machinery and technologies. The training facility will provide technical workshops on the key components of sugarcane harvesters and other agriculture technologies.

"CNH Industrial is deeply committed to empowering the next generation of talent that will be driving the Thai agriculture industry forward. By blending industry-leading knowledge and technology with hands-on training, we are not only training students better but also nurturing them to become innovators in the agriculture sector," Mark added.

CNH Industrial has been taking significant strides to strengthen the agricultural sector in Thailand and to contribute to sustainable food production globally. The company recently received the Best Contribution to Thailand's Education Award 2023 from the Thai Ministry of Education for its long-standing commitment to collaborating with academic institutions and elevating vocational training in agriculture.

This partnership affirms CNH Industrial's commitment to support the future of Thai agriculture, as it empowers local communities and continues to expand sustainable initiatives on a global scale.

View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from CNH Industrial on 3blmedia.com.

Contact Info:

Spokesperson: CNH Industrial

Website: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/cnh-industrial

Email: [email protected]

SOURCE: CNH Industrial

View source version on accesswire.com:
A new integration with Giatec's SmartMix" will allow BCMI's customers to optimize their concrete mixes, thus reducing mix costs and CO2 emissions.

OTTAWA, ON / ACCESSWIRE / August 29, 2023 / AI leaders in the ready-mixed concrete industry, Giatec and BCMI are pleased to announce the integration between the BCMI platform and Giatec's SmartMix", a full-featured, artificial intelligence (AI) assisted mix management and reporting software, enabling producers to optimize for the right mix every time. SmartMix covers a full range of mix-management capabilities augmented by AI technology and is the cornerstone of AI-assisted mix design optimization for reducing cost and carbon footprint, based on data from over 200,000 concrete mixes.





Giatec and BCMI Partner to Introduce Modern AI Mix Management for Ready Mix Concrete Producers

A new integration with Giatec's SmartMix will allow BCMI's customers to optimize their concrete mixes, thus reducing mix costs and CO2 emissions.





"SmartMix was built with the intention of strengthening the connection between concrete producers and jobsites through mix analytics and real-time data," says Pouria Ghods, CEO and Co-founder of Giatec. "With the BCMI partnership, we are excited to launch another integration that furthers our vision to not only provide better visibility into mix design but also reduce mix costs and lower the carbon footprint of the construction industry."

BARD Materials, an area leader known for innovation in the ready-mix concrete industry, climbed on board to implement the SmartMix Integration, bringing valuable insights to their customers into the quality and performance of their mix designs. "Working with Giatec and BCMI to enable this integration has been a great experience. These companies are leaders in AI software for our industry, and we are excited to begin exploring how we can use these tools to revolutionize the mixture optimization process," says Tony Thier, President, BARD Materials.

Service providers like BCMI and Giatec are aligned in a mandate of bettering producer tools by creating open APIs and connected data for concrete producers. SmartMix incorporates data from BCMI and other modern dispatch systems onto its own interface to allow users to gain better insights into mix proportions, quality variations, and other important external factors. All producers using BCMI for their dispatch system are now able to use SmartMix, thanks to this new integration.

About Giatec

Giatec is a global company revolutionizing the construction industry by bringing smart testing technologies and real-time collection and analysis of concrete data from production and delivery to placement. Giatec's suite of hardware & software products has leveraged advanced technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), and Internet of Things (IoT), including wireless concrete sensors, mobile apps, and advanced non-destructive technologies (NDT) to drive innovation throughout concrete's lifecycle and reduce concrete's carbon footprint. For more information, visit https://www.giatecscientific.com/.

About BCMI

BCMI Corp. (Bulk Construction Materials Initiative) is a collaborative effort between marquee materials producers to design, develop and deliver modern tools for the entire business process of ready-mix concrete and bulk.

Contact Information

Dobrila Moogk

Vice President, Marketing, Giatec Scientific

[email protected]

+1 (877) 497-6278 ext. 9210

SOURCE: Giatec Scientific Inc.

View source version on accesswire.com:
NORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / August 29, 2023 / U.S. Bank



Photo: Terry and Tiffany Woodley, owners of Woodley Building Maintenance and children of founder Jimmy Woodley, at their office location.

Originally published on U.S. Bank company blog

When Jimmy Woodley started cleaning buildings in 1969, he started out of the trunk of his car. In the more than 50 years since, his business - Woodley Building Maintenance (WBM) in Kansas City, Missouri - has grown into a family legacy that continues with his children, Tiffany and Terry, and his wife, Robery.

"My dad's first sizeable contract was cleaning an office complex in Lee's Summit after his previous job went on strike," said Tiffany Woodley, the chief financial officer at WBM who joined in the family business at age 27. "He didn't have the financing to do the work in Lee's Summit, so he got a loan from his old boss and the business grew from there."

Yet, as the business kept growing, Jimmy's former manager told him he needed something else on his side: a bank. That's where Mercantile Bank, which was eventually acquired by U.S. Bank, came in.

"The banking relationship is something you talk with other business owners about," said Tiffany Woodley. "I've always enthusiastically shared my experience with U.S. Bank because, even if it is a large bank, there is a small bank personality. When something does happen, I can always reach out to people and that's one of the main reasons I haven't entertained making any kind of change."

The oldest accounts at U.S. Bank with the WBM date back to 1977, with the partnership lasting through some of the most challenging times in recent memory. That includes during the COVID-19 pandemic, when the Woodleys worked with U.S. Bank to apply for and receive a loan through the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), which was launched to help business owners keep their employees.

WBM is owned and operated by Tiffany Woodley; her brother and WBM's president and chief operating officer, Terry Woodley; and her mother, Robery Woodley. It's a successful business that is steeped in history that all started with Jimmy, Terry Woodley said.

"The banking relationship is something you talk with other business owners about. I've always enthusiastically shared my experience with U.S. Bank because, even if it is a large bank, there is a small bank personality." - Tiffany Woodley

"When Tiffany and I joined the company, it was already a good size to support our parents," said Terry Woodley, who joined the business when he was 30. "Since then, we've been able to grow and also create a joint venture with another building maintenance company that was the brainchild of my father and his good friend, Skip Marsden."

While Marsden passed before the launch of that joint venture - which is known today as Tier One Property Services - and Jimmy Woodley passed not long after, Terry and Tiffany have seen it grow from idea to a multi-state, multi-million-dollar commercial janitorial, building maintenance and specialty property services business.

"It was their trust in one another that led us to where we are today with Tier One," said Terry, who noted that WBM is a majority stakeholder in Tier One Property Services.

Looking back over the decades and generations, the relationship between the Woodleys and U.S. Bank runs deep.

"The entrepreneurial spirit and growth mindset that started with Jimmy lives on in Tiffany and Terry," said Jack Golden, a business banking relationship manager at U.S. Bank. "It's an honor to support them as they continue to grow Woodley Building Maintenance and strategically plan for the future of their business."

Today, succession planning is top of mind for the Woodleys and they are working with Golden to outline possible paths forward as they think about the legacy of their company.

"The third generation are my kids, and my kids have other interests," said Terry Woodley. "One is studying cyber security and the other is working towards becoming a chiropractor, so we want to see what options are out there for the business down the line."

When looking back during their 50-year anniversary as Woodley Maintenance Company in 2019, Terry Woodley said, "it is humbling to take a step back and reflect on our history and the journey that led us to where we are today. It is a notable accomplishment for our customers, our team, our partners, and our family."

View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from U.S. Bank on 3blmedia.com.

Contact Info:

Spokesperson: U.S. Bank

Website: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/us-bank

Email: [email protected]

SOURCE: U.S. Bank

View source version on accesswire.com:
DALLAS, TX / ACCESSWIRE / August 29, 2023 / MDM Permian Inc., (OTC PINK:MDMP) an up-and-coming player in the energy sector, is thrilled to announce the successful sale of its first load of oil from one of its recent East Texas acquisitions. This achievement marks a significant milestone for the company and its new management, highlighting its strategic growth efforts and commitment to delivering value to its shareholders.

The newly acquired assets in East Texas have proven to be a strategic addition to MDM Permian's portfolio. This sale underscores the company's dedication to responsible resource development and operational excellence.

"We are excited to have reached this pivotal moment in our company's journey," said Mark T. Warner, President and CEO of MDM Permian, Inc. "This accomplishment is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our team, who have worked tirelessly to integrate these assets and ensure their successful operation. We are confident that this milestone is just the first of many more to come."

About MDM Permian Inc

MDM Permian, Inc. is an emerging oil and gas exploration and production company committed to delivering sustainable energy solutions. With a focus on responsible resource extraction, operational excellence, and environmental stewardship, MDM Permian, Inc. aims to meet the growing energy demands while minimizing its ecological footprint. The company's diverse portfolio spans across multiple regions, driving economic growth and creating value for its stockholders and stakeholders.

For media inquiries, contact:

Rachel D. Green

V.P. Investor Relations

469-252-3603

[email protected]

Safe Harbor Act: This release includes forward-looking statements made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 that involves risks and uncertainties including, but not limited to, the impact of competitive products, the ability to meet customer demand, the ability to manage growth, acquisitions of technology, equipment, or human resources, the effect of economic business conditions and the ability to attract and retain skilled personnel. The Company is not obligated to revise or update any forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances that may arise after the date of this release.

SOURCE: MDM Permian, Inc.

View source version on accesswire.com:
NORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / August 29, 2023 / Yum! Brands



Taco Bell Blog

At 16 years old, Mauricio began venturing off to the city away from his small town on the lookout for a job. Mauricio remembers that this was the age that young Costa Ricans began their adventure to find their own path for the future. After a long search, he found the job he was looking for: Taco Bell. By the time he decided to apply for the Taco Bell position, the Brand had only been established for about a year in Costa Rica. Now, 33 years later, he is a General Manager for Costa Rica and Panama. Mauricio had no idea that applying for that role was going to make such an incredible impact on his career, life, and community.

Throughout his time at Taco Bell, he met his wife through a co-worker, which led them to be the first couple to have a wedding ceremony at the Costa Rica Taco Bell. He and his wife went on to have two children, one of which is deaf - his name is Esteban. When the time came for Mauricio's son Esteban to go to a high school, he and his family were running into challenges looking for a high school that could cater to their son's needs.

During his search, he met with his son's Program Coordinator. She asked him if his business had opportunities for people with disabilities. Mauricio responded that the restaurant business is all about speed, etc. and that's why he doesn't have anyone on his team with disabilities. And that's when she said, "Your response is why my students are unable to find a job." That's when it hit him; he finally came face-to-face with the fact that his son was going to be entering a world that excluded him. That's when he decided to offer three individuals with disabilities a job at his restaurant. And it didn't take him long to realize that their determination and hard work were like nothing he'd ever seen.

The challenge of not finding an opportunity for his son to attend a high school opened his eyes to the challenges that a lot of people with disabilities face each day. That shift in perspective and the experience he had with his new hires led him to work with his franchisee, Jose Pacheco, to start their own program: Inclusion Sin Limites (Inclusion without Limits), which has now been around for over 13 years. It provides jobs within their restaurants to those with physical, cognitive, or hearing disabilities, allowing them to integrate into society like any other person. Today, 10% of their Team Members have some sort of disability and their goal is to reach 15% by end of 2023.

"The community has embraced this program and the media in Costa Rica sees Taco Bell as a leading example in their country to provide opportunities," Mauricio said. "& families that have someone with disabilities tend to fall into poverty, because of the lack of resources. I strongly believe that these types of programs help address our poverty percentage. And I believe that the reason why this program has succeeded was that it did not start as a social movement, but as a teachable moment to show others that people with disabilities were just like the rest of us."

His passion for this work helped set a movement to address inclusiveness in the food industry throughout his country. Over the course of these 13+ years, Mauricio has helped countless individuals have a fair opportunity and hopes that everyone has a chance at a better life.

"We should all question if our jobs will be ready to accept us [if we ever got a physical, cognitive, or hearing disability]. If not, then you should be wondering what you can do to make your workplace inclusive," he said.

There are 240 million children living with disabilities in the world; half of them are out of school, many are invisible, hidden by their families and abandoned by their governments. If you want to support, head to www.unicefusa.org or disabilityin.org/ to learn more.

View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from Yum! Brands on 3blmedia.com.

Contact Info:

Spokesperson: Yum! Brands

Website: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/yum-brands

Email: [email protected]

SOURCE: Yum! Brands

View source version on accesswire.com:
Noah Holdings Limited (the "Company" or "Noah") (NYSE: NOAH), a leading and pioneer wealth management service provider in China offering comprehensive one-stop advisory services on global investment and asset allocation primarily for high net worth investors, today announced that the Company's board of directors (the "Board") proposes that each issued and unissued ordinary share of the Company with a par value of US$0.0005 each (the "Shares") be subdivided into 10 ordinary shares with a par value of US$0.00005 each (the "Subdivided Shares") (such proposed subdivision, the "Share Subdivision"). The Share Subdivision is conditional on, among other things, the approval of the Company's shareholders at the extraordinary general meeting to be held on or around October 26, 2023 (the "EGM"). Subject to and conditional upon the Share Subdivision becoming effective, the Board has approved a change in the Company's American depositary share ("ADS") ratio proportionate to the Share Subdivision from two ADSs representing one Share to one ADS representing five Subdivided Shares (the "ADS Ratio Change"). The ADS Ratio Change and the Share Subdivision, if approved, will take effect on the same date. No action is required by the Company's ADS holders to effect the ADS Ratio Change (other than to vote to approve the Share Subdivision proposal at the EGM). The Board believes that the Share Subdivision will lower the investment barrier and increase the trading liquidity of the Company's ordinary shares, which would attract more investors to trade in the Company's ordinary shares on The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited and give the Company more flexibility to explore future fundraising activities.

The Shares are currently traded on The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited in board lot size of 20 Shares each. The Board also proposes that, subject to and conditional upon the Share Subdivision becoming effective, the board lot size will be changed from 20 Shares to 100 Subdivided Shares (the "Change in Board Lot Size"). The Change in Board Lot Size will not affect any of the relative rights of the Company's shareholders.

Holders of the Shares as of the close of business on Tuesday, September 12, 2023, Hong Kong time, will be entitled to attend and vote at the EGM or any adjourned meeting thereof. Holders of record of ADSs as of close of business on Tuesday, September 12, 2023 , New York time, who wish to exercise their voting rights in respect of the underlying Shares must give voting instructions to Citibank, N.A., the depositary of the ADSs. Details including the date and location of the EGM will be set out in the Company's notice of EGM to be issued and provided to holders of the Shares and ADSs as of the respective record dates together with the proxy materials in due course.

Further details on the proposed Share Subdivision, Change in Board Lot Size and record date for the EGM are available on the Company's investor relations website at http://ir.noahgroup.com.

ABOUT NOAH HOLDINGS LIMITED

Noah Holdings Limited (NYSE: NOAH and HKEX:6686) is a leading and pioneer wealth management service provider in China offering comprehensive one-stop advisory services on global investment and asset allocation primarily for high net worth investors. Noah is a Cayman Islands holding company and carries on business in Hong Kong as Noah Holdings Private Wealth and Asset Management Limited. In the first half of 2023, Noah distributed RMB35.2 billion ( US$4.9 billion ) of investment products. Through Gopher Asset Management, Noah had assets under management of RMB156.9 billion ( US$21.6 billion ) as of June 30, 2023 .

Noah's wealth management business primarily distributes private equity, private secondary, mutual fund and other products denominated in RMB and other currencies. Noah delivers customized financial solutions to clients through a network of 1,375 relationship managers across 63 cities in mainland China, and serves the international investment needs of its clients through offices in Hong Kong (China), Taiwan (China) , New York , Silicon Valley and Singapore . The Company's wealth management business had 446,557 registered clients as of June 30, 2023 . Through Gopher Asset Management, Noah manages private equity, public securities, real estate, multi-strategy and other investments denominated in RMB and other currencies. Noah also provides other businesses.

For more information, please visit Noah at ir.noahgroup.com.

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/noah-holdings-limited-announces-proposed-share-subdivision-change-in-board-lot-size-and-record-date-for-the-egm-301911201.html

SOURCE Noah Holdings Limited
Insurer Eyes Superior Policyholder Experience Through Digital Payments

FOLSOM, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- One Inc, the leading digital payments network for the insurance industry, announced today that AmTrust Financial Services, Inc. (AmTrust or the Company), a global specialty property and casualty insurer and the nations third-largest provider of workers compensation insurance, has selected One Incs inbound payments platform and best-in-class solution, PremiumPay.

Optimizing One Incs PremiumPay will help AmTrust use the most innovative solutions to monitor and improve its customer experience and premium collection process. AmTrust joins the roster of accredited insurers adopting One Inc's seamless payment solution, adding to the series of new insurance partnership announcements this year.

"At AmTrust, implementing a contemporary payment solution that aligns with the ever-changing demands of our insured clients is critical to customer satisfaction," stated Ariel Gorelik, EVP/Global Head of Technology and Operations at AmTrust Financial Services. "Collaborating with One Inc will equip AmTrust with the digital framework required to elevate and optimize our unparalleled user experience."

Policyholders expect fast, modern payment options that give them access to their funds quickly and securely. AmTrust now makes that a reality for their agents and insureds, said Ian Drysdale, CEO of One Inc. We are honored by the company's vote of confidence in our digital payment solutions and capabilities and commend AmTrusts commitment to delivering top-tier service to their customers."

About One Inc

One Inc is modernizing the insurance industry through a unified and frictionless payment network. Focusing only on the insurance industry, One Inc helps carriers transform their operations by reducing costs, increasing security, and optimizing customer experience. The comprehensive end-to-end digital payments platform provides expanded payment options, multi-channel digital communications, and rapid digital claim payment, even for the most complex insurance use cases. As one of the fastest-growing digital payments platforms in the insurance industry, One Inc manages billions of dollars per year in premiums and claim payments. For more information, please visit www.oneinc.com.

About AmTrust Services, Inc.

AmTrust Financial Services, Inc., a multinational insurance holding company headquartered in New York, offers specialty property and casualty insurance products, including workers' compensation, business owners policy (BOP), general liability and extended service and warranty coverage. For more information about AmTrust, visit www.amtrustfinancial.com.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230829764028/en/

Ana Pallas

Stanton PRM

415.867.6262

[email protected]

Source: One Inc
In January-July 2023, more than 900 thousand citizens of Kyrgyzstan visited Uzbekistan for tourism purposes, according to the Agency on Statistics under the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Azernews reports, citing Kabar.

Most of all, citizens of Tajikistan (1151.4 thousand people), Kyrgyzstan (912.8 thousand), Kazakhstan (879.0 thousand), Russia (417.4 thousand), Turkey visited Uzbekistan for tourism purposes over the past period (58.0 thousand), Turkmenistan (39.6 thousand), South Korea (20.2 thousand), India (20.0 thousand), China (17.7 thousand) and Germany (14.1 thousand).

In total, over this period of the current year, 3.7 million foreign citizens visited Uzbekistan for tourism purposes.

In 2022, 1.35 million people visited Uzbekistan from Kyrgyzstan.
ECULLY, France--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Regulatory News:

Groupe SEB (Paris: SK), global leader in small household appliances and professional coffee solutions, is pleased to announce the appointment of Olivier Casanova as Chief Financial Officer. Olivier Casanova will join Groupe SEB and assume his role on September 15. He will be a member of the General Management Committee of the Group and the Executive Committee, reporting to Stanislas de Gramont, CEO.

A graduate of HEC, Olivier Casanova brings solid financial expertise and extensive leadership experience in well-known companies. His career began in 1991 as an investment banker at SG Warburg / UBS in Paris and London. He then progressed within the Thomson Group from 2003, assuming various roles including CFO of the Screens and Components division, Deputy CFO of the group, and Director of Strategy and Marketing. In 2010, he joined PSA Peugeot Citroen Group as Head of Finance, Treasury, and Mergers & Acquisitions. He served as CFO of Tereos, the world's third-largest sugar producer, from 2012 to 2019. Prior to joining Groupe SEB, Olivier Casanova was Deputy CFO of CMA CGM, responsible for controlling, accounting & consolidation, and group taxation. He joined CMA CGM in 2019 as CFO of CEVA Logistics and later became CEO of CMA CGM's new air cargo airline.

Commenting on this appointment, Stanislas de Gramont, CEO of Groupe SEB, stated: "Olivier Casanova's arrival marks a significant milestone for our Group. His financial expertise and exceptional leadership will further strengthen our management team. I am confident that his contribution will be essential to continue our growth and success in the global market."

Groupe SEB also extends its warm appreciation to Nathalie Lomon, who held the position of Chief Financial Officer for 4 years. Nathalie has chosen to leave Groupe SEB for personal reasons. Throughout the month of September, she will work closely with Mr. Casanova to ensure a smooth transition.

Next key dates  2023 October 26 | after market 9-month 2023 sales and financial data

Find us on www.groupeseb.com

World reference in small domestic equipment, Groupe SEB operates with a unique portfolio of 35 top brands including Tefal, Seb, Rowenta, Moulinex, Krups, Lagostina, All-Clad, WMF, Emsa, Supor, marketed through multi-format retailing. Selling nearly 350 million products a year, it deploys a long-term strategy focused on innovation, international development, competitiveness, and client service. Present in over 150 countries, Groupe SEB generated sales near 8 billion in 2022 and has more than 30,000 employees worldwide.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230829714540/en/

Investor/Analyst Relations

Groupe SEB

Financial Communication and IR Dept

Olivier Gernandt

Guillaume Baron

[email protected]

[email protected]

Tel. +33 (0) 4 72 18 16 04

[email protected]

Media Relations

Groupe SEB

Corporate Communication Dept

Cathy Pianon

Anissa Djaadi

Marie Leroy

[email protected]

Tel. + 33 (0) 6 33 13 02 00

Tel. + 33 (0) 6 88 20 90 88

Tel. + 33 (0) 6 76 98 87 53

Image Sept

Caroline Simon

Claire Doligez

Isabelle Dunoyer de Segonzac

[email protected]

[email protected]

[email protected]

Tel.: +33 (0) 1 53 70 74 70

Source: Groupe SEB
Autel Europe CEO Ting Cai will give a speech at ICNC23.

BERLIN--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Autel Energy, a leading provider of innovative EV charging solutions, is pleased to announce its participation in the highly-anticipated Intercharge Network Conference 2023 (ICNC23) to be held on August 29-31, 2023, in Berlin. Ting Cai, CEO of Autel Europe, is set to captivate the audience with an insightful speech on the future of EV charging. Autel's hallmark innovation, the MaxiCharger DC Compact, will take center stage as it makes a live demonstration at the Plug&Charge Showcase Zone to showcase its seamless charging process.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230828771064/en/

Complete MaxiCharger Lineup Unveiled at ICNC23 and IAA MOBILITY 2023 (Graphic: Business Wire)

ICNC23 is renowned for bringing together top industry professionals, experts, and stakeholders in the electric vehicle charging infrastructure domain. Ting Cais speech and Autels charging capabilities of its products will provide attendees with an exclusive opportunity to experience first-hand the cutting-edge technology that Autel Energy has brought to the market.

Autel MaxiCharger series offer a revolutionary charging solution that has transformed the charging experience for electric vehicle owners. With its high-speed charging capabilities, intuitive user interface, and compatibility with various electric vehicle models, Autel has earned its reputation as an indispensable tool for EV owners. Notably, Autel Energy has been officially checked and validated by Hubject, making its way into the Plug&Charge ecosystem. At ICNC23, Autel will bring its MaxiCharger DC Compact to demonstrate the charging process at the Plug&Charge Showcase Zone, which will impeccably showcase its exceptional features, emphasizing its role in providing a seamless and efficient charging process for electric vehicles.

Following the ICNC23, Autel Energy is excited to continue its engagement with the electric vehicle community at IAA MOBILITY 2023 (International Motor Show Germany) to take place on September 5-10, 2023, in Munich. During this period, Autel will embark on a roadshow, with its event vehicles journeying from ICNC in Berlin all the way to IAA MOBILITY in Munich and ultimately welcoming visitors at booth C2 A31.

"We are delighted to be part of ICNC23 and IAA MOBILITY 2023, where we can showcase the capabilities of Autels EV chargers and its seamless integration with various EV models," said Ting Cai, CEO of Autel Europe. "As the EV market continues to grow, Autel Energy remains committed to delivering cutting-edge charging solutions that enhance the driving experience for EV owners worldwide."

Visitors attending ICNC23 and IAA MOBILITY will have the exclusive opportunity to explore the charging process of the demonstration EV by Autel Energy's comprehensive array of EV charging products. Autel Energy's team of experts will be available at the event to engage with visitors, share insights, and discuss the transformative potential of their cutting-edge charging solutions.

For more information about Autel Energy and its EV charging solutions, please visit: https://autelenergy.com/

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230828771064/en/

Jiaqi Liu

Email:[email protected]

Source: Autel Energy
Leadership, Vision, and Industry-Changing Innovations Earn Grote Recognition among Top Phoenix CEOs and Executives

PHOENIX--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Banner|Aetna, a joint venture health plan owned by Banner Health and Aetna, a CVS Health company, proudly announced Tom Grote, chief executive officer, as a 2023 Phoenix Titan 100 honoree. The Titan 100 program identifies and celebrates the top 100 CEOs and C-level executives in Phoenix who have demonstrated extraordinary leadership, vision and passion.

The award recognizes Grotes contributions to health care over four decades. As founding CEO of Banner|Aetna, Grote has sought to make high quality care more affordable and accessible, expanding Banner|Aetna to become the fastest-growing health plan in Arizona.

With Grote at the helm, the joint venture insurer has launched innovative solutions like a groundbreaking virtual diabetes reversal program and an industry-first frictionless billing initiative that makes complicated medical bills consumer friendly. Banner|Aetna also expanded its health insurance plans through the Affordable Care Act Marketplace to further increase access to affordable health care coverage for Arizonans.

"Im honored to be named a 2023 Titan 100 award recipient and to be recognized alongside other esteemed Arizona business leaders," said Banner|Aetna CEO Tom Grote. "Its a privilege to lead the meaningful work done at Banner|Aetna, and Im thankful for my entire team for committing to improve health care in our state.

Collectively, the Phoenix Titan 100 are responsible for over 43,000 employees and generate more than $11 billion in annual revenues. This year's honorees were recognized at a grand awards ceremony on August 24th, 2023.

Jaime Zawmon, President of Titan CEO, applauds the honorees, saying, The Titan 100 are redefining the business landscape in Phoenix. Their distinctive leadership has left an indelible mark in their fields. We celebrate the Titan 100 for their groundbreaking contributions to Phoenix's business community. Their achievements cast a significant, positive impact on their clients and employees nationwide."

In addition, Grote has been appointed to serve on the Titan 100 Board where he will provide guidance and feedback on the future direction of the program. Banner|Aetna extends heartfelt thanks to Tom Grote for his exceptional leadership and congratulates all 2023 Phoenix Titan 100 awardees for their achievements.

About Banner|Aetna

Banner|Aetna is a health insurance company focusing on bettering member outcomes at a lower cost, all while improving the overall member experience for employers and consumers in Arizona. The collaboration combines Banner Healths high-quality, local providers and delivery systems with Aetnas health plan experience, care management and health information technology. Banner|Aetna is the brand name used for products and services provided by Banner Health and Aetna Health Insurance Company, as well as Banner Health and Aetna Health Plan Inc. For more information about Banner|Aetna, visit banneraetna.com.

About Banner Health

Banner Health is one of the largest, secular nonprofit health care systems in the country. In addition to 30 acute-care hospitals, Banner also operates an academic medicine division, Banner  University Medicine, and Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center, a partnership with one of the worlds leading cancer programs, MD Anderson Cancer Center. Banners array of services includes a health insurance division, employed physician groups, outpatient surgery centers, urgent care locations, home care and hospice services, retail pharmacies, stand-alone imaging centers, physical therapy and rehabilitation, behavioral health services, a research division and a nursing registry. To make health care easier, 100% of Banner-employed doctors are available for virtual visits, and Banner operates a free 24/7 nurse line for health questions or concerns. Patients may also reserve spots at Banner Urgent Care locations and can book appointments online with many Banner-employed doctors. Headquartered in Arizona, Banner Health also has locations in California, Colorado, Nebraska, Nevada and Wyoming. For more information, visit bannerhealth.com.

About CVS Health

CVS Health is the leading health solutions company, delivering care like no one else can. We reach more people and improve the health of communities across America through our local presence, digital channels and over 300,000 dedicated colleagues  including more than 40,000 physicians, pharmacists, nurses and nurse practitioners. Wherever and whenever people need us, we help them with their health  whether thats managing chronic diseases, staying compliant with their medications or accessing affordable health and wellness services in the most convenient ways. We help people navigate the health care system  and their personal health care  by improving access, lowering costs and being a trusted partner for every meaningful moment of health. And we do it all with heart, each and every day. Follow @CVSHealth on social media.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230829924595/en/

Sarah McLeod

Activate Health

[email protected]

480.352.1044

Source: Banner|Aetna
New Executive Leadership Team Assembled

PITTSBURGH--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Giant Eagle, Inc., one of the nations leading regional food, fuel, and pharmacy retailers, is pleased to announce that Bill Artman has been appointed Chief Executive Officer after having been named Interim CEO in March. During his nearly 40-year tenure with the company, Mr. Artman has served in various executive leadership roles, including President of Supermarkets, Executive Vice President and Senior Vice President Retail Operations. As a result, he has developed a deep and unique understanding of Giant Eagles multifaceted business and has built strong and trusting relationships with Giant Eagle Team Members, customers, vendors, and numerous business and community partners.

Bill already has made a tremendous impact in his interim role, giving the Board confidence that he is the right leader to take Giant Eagle to new heights. We are pleased to officially welcome him as CEO, said Bart Friedman, Chair of the companys Board of Directors. Over the past five months Bill has established a new business strategy and assembled a strong executive leadership team comprised of an accomplished group of professionals with decades of relevant experience who have both a keen understanding of the companys unique standing as a multi-format retailer and a strong vision for its future. Combined with Bills unique understanding of the history and heritage of the business and markets in which it operates, we are confident this leadership team will carry the company into many new chapters of success.

Im humbled and honored by the opportunity to lead the company that Ive been a part of almost four decades, while working alongside thousands of exceptional and talented Team Members, said Mr. Artman. My focus is, and always has been, on delivering for our customers and neighborhoods in which we operate, while providing the support our Team Members need so they can deliver the best experience possible for our customers no matter how they choose to shop with us.

Over the past five months, Mr. Artman has focused on putting the customer at the center of the companys efforts. For Mr. Artman, this starts with a deep care for Giant Eagles Team Members and its neighborhoods. Recent and ongoing efforts include moving quickly to return a revamped weekly circular to mailboxes in Pittsburgh and Cleveland; the reintroduction of the Price Lock promotion to lock prices on more than 1,000 seasonally relevant products; Free Coffee Monday at GetGo; seasonally impactful fuel discounts; new and expanded personalized savings through the companys myPerks loyalty platform; and the rollout of a new Team Member perks and discount program that is currently in pilot. These efforts represent the companys pursuit and commitment to provide reliable value and unparalleled quality and service to its customers every day.

Executive Leadership Team

Mr. Artman has assembled his leadership team through the appointment of several executive leaders with decades of industry experience and a keen understanding of the companys unique standing as a multi-format retailer.

Terri Micklin has been promoted to Executive Vice President, President of GetGo. With more than two decades of retail, fuel and convenience industry expertise, Micklin brings a wealth of knowledge to this role, having recently served as Senior Vice President of Development & Strategy for GetGo. Her career includes experience with ExxonMobil Corporation and more than 20 years with Wawa, Inc. where she spearheaded numerous construction initiatives, including new stores, remodels, and other significant projects. Ms. Micklin will lead GetGo's ongoing growth and expansion, while prioritizing its food-first approach and guest-obsessed culture.

Jim Tsipakis, RPh., has been promoted to Executive Vice President, President of Supermarkets and Pharmacy. Most recently Mr. Tsipakis was Executive Vice President and President of Giant Eagle Pharmacy. In his new role, he will now oversee both the Supermarket and Pharmacy businesses for Giant Eagle. His expanded responsibilities will enable him to drive transformative strategies to create an exceptional and differentiated in-store experience for customers and continue to position Giant Eagle Pharmacy as a leading healthcare resource and destination. Mr. Tsipakis will lead several vital areas of the business including retail and pharmacy operations, supermarket merchandising, and the evolution of the supermarket service culture.

Dave Burnworth has been promoted to Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer. Most recently Mr. Burnworth was Senior Vice President and Chief Accounting Officer of the company. Mr. Burnworths outstanding financial acumen, coupled with his strategic vision, will further strengthen the companys financial foundation and ensure its sustained growth in an ever-evolving market. In this role, Mr. Burnworth will play a pivotal role in driving financial performance and supporting strategic decision-making across the organization.

Graham Watkins has been promoted to Executive Vice President, Chief Information and Supply Chain Officer. Most recently Mr. Watkins was Executive Vice President, Supply Chain Transformation & Operations. Mr. Watkins will maintain responsibility for the companys supply chain and warehouse operations, while also leading its information technology teams to advance the companys numerous IT and technology initiatives that are underway.

Justin Weinstein has been promoted to Executive Vice President, Chief Strategy and Marketing Officer. Most recently Mr. Weinstein was Senior Vice President and Chief Strategy Officer. In this role, Mr. Weinstein will play a leading role in defining Giant Eagles corporate and go-to-market strategy. He will continue to lead the organizations strategic planning, analytics, digital, and partnerships functions, while serving as Chief of Staff to the CEO. In his expanded role, he also will oversee the companys enterprise marketing, retail media network, and eCommerce strategy teams.

"Terri, Jim, Dave, Graham, and Justin have consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership skills and a deep commitment to our customers, said Mr. Artman. Their expanded roles within the organization will undoubtedly strengthen our ability to deliver meaningful everyday value and an exceptional omnichannel shopping experience for our customers in an environment that recognizes and rewards our Team Members."

Completing the Giant Eagle, Inc. executive leadership team are Greg Baker, Executive Vice President, General Counsel, and Janis Leigh, Executive Vice President, Chief People Officer.

Giant Eagle has proudly served its communities for more than 90 years. The companys executive leadership team is poised to support the approximately 36,000 Team Members who bring the Giant Eagle, Market District, Giant Eagle Pharmacy, GetGo and WetGo experiences to life every day for their guests. With a focus on delivering fresh foods and everyday reliable value, continually evolving its in-store and online shopping experiences and giving back to the communities it serves so all its neighbors have the opportunity to thrive, Giant Eagle is well positioned to continue meeting the needs of its customers and Team Members for years to come.

About Giant Eagle

Giant Eagle, Inc., ranked among the top 40 on Forbes magazines largest private corporations list, is one of the nations largest food retailers and distributors with approximately $11.4 billion in annual sales. Founded in 1931, Giant Eagle, Inc. has grown to be a leading food, fuel, and pharmacy retailer in the region with more than 470 stores throughout western Pennsylvania, north central Ohio, northern West Virginia, Maryland, and Indiana.

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Jessica Rock

Chief Corporate Affairs Officer

Giant Eagle, Inc.

412.967.4551

[email protected]

Source: Giant Eagle, Inc.
PHOENIX--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Bubbies Ice Cream, the fan favorite mochi ice cream brand known for its all-natural, premium ingredients and delightful taste, announced today the return of its limited-edition Pumpkin Spice Mochi Ice Cream. Made with super-premium pumpkin ice cream wrapped in a subtly sweet, melt-in-your-mouth mochi dough, Bubbies Pumpkin Spice Mochi Ice Cream is the perfect way to indulge in the flavor of fall all season long.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230829273952/en/

Bubbies Pumpkin Spice Mochi Ice Cream. (Photo: Business Wire)

Bubbies Pumpkin Spice Mochi Ice Cream is offering an exciting pumpkin experience beyond the traditional ice cream pint or pumpkin spice latte. Plus, its a better-for-you indulgence with only 90 calories per serving and real, high-quality ingredients. Like all other Bubbies flavors, Bubbies Pumpkin Spice Mochi Ice Cream is Certified Gluten-Free, non-GMO, and contains no rBST dairy.

Were so excited to bring back our seasonal Pumpkin Spice flavor this year, said Katie Cline, Vice President of Marketing at Bubbies Ice Cream. Its a fan favorite for a reason, and we love being able to hop on the trend while staying true to our roots with premium and high-quality ingredients plus delectable taste. With pumpkin season happening earlier and earlier each year, were also proud to be one of the few pumpkin LTOs that is warm weather friendly, too!

Find this limited-time-offering online on Bubbies website and through Fresh Direct, or in stores at H-E-B, NorCal Safeway locations, and other regional retailers with more to be announced soon. To stay up to date, be sure to follow the brand on social media @bubbies or check out Bubbies store locator at https://bubbiesicecream.com/pages/store-locator. To learn more about Bubbies Ice Cream, visit https://bubbiesicecream.com/.

About Bubbies Ice Cream

Bubbies Ice Cream is an iconic frozen novelty brand best known for its all natural Mochi Ice Cream innovations. From its humble beginnings in 1985 as a scoop shop on the island of Oahu serving up flavors inspired by its island home to becoming one of the fastest-growing mochi brands on the Mainland with more than 20 surprisingly unique flavors, Bubbies never fails in paving new paths to ice cream paradise. Starting with the highest quality real ingredients such as Madagascar vanilla, real fruit puree and no rBST dairy, Bubbies crafts its creamy, super-premium ice cream using the same secret family recipe since 1985.

Bubbies Mochi can be purchased at select Whole Foods Market, Publix Super Market, Sprouts Farmers Market, Safeway, H-E-B, and Gelsons Market stores in addition to many other retailers across the country and online via the brands website.

Find more information at bubbiesicecream.com and follow Bubbies Ice Cream via Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest.

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Lyndsey Siracusano

Rachel Kay Public Relations

a Finn Partners Company

[email protected]

(929) 337-0638

Source: Bubbies Ice Cream
Adding Four New Independent Directors

Appoints John Greisch as Executive Chair

Establishes New Strategic and Operational Review Committee of the Board

Enters into Cooperation Agreement with Elliott Investment Management L.P.

SOMERSET, N.J.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Catalent, Inc. (NYSE: CTLT), the leader in enabling the development and supply of better biopharmaceutical treatments for patients worldwide, today announced several initiatives reflecting its ongoing commitment to strong corporate governance and shareholder value creation.

The Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee of the Board has recommended, and the Board has approved, the appointment of four new independent directors: Steven Barg, Frank DAmelio, Stephanie Okey, and Michelle Ryan. With these appointments, Catalents Board of Directors will consist of 16 directors, 13 of whom are independent under the Companys director independence standards. It is expected that the 12 nominees recommended by the Board in the Companys proxy statement and on its proxy card to stand for election at the 2023 Annual Meeting of Stockholders will include the four new directors and eight other nominees, who are current directors, to be selected by the Board.

In addition, John Greisch has been appointed Executive Chair of the Board and will also chair the new Strategic and Operational Review Committee, as discussed further below. Mr. Greisch is a proven operator and executive in the healthcare industry, with a track record of improving operational execution, enhancing financial performance, and unlocking shareholder value. He most recently served as President and CEO of Hill-Rom Holdings from 2010 to 2018. Prior to that, Mr. Greisch was President, International Operations and CFO of Baxter. Mr. Greisch currently serves as chairman of the board of Viant Medical and as lead independent director on the board of Carrier Corporation, and formerly served on the boards of Cerner Corporation, Idorsia Pharmaceuticals, Hill-Rom Holdings, Actelion, and TomoTherapy. Additionally, he serves as a senior advisor to TPG Capital and is on the board of directors for the Ann & Robert H. Lurie Childrens Hospital of Chicago.

Catalents Board has also established a new Strategic and Operational Review Committee to conduct a review of the Companys business, strategy and operations, as well as the Companys capital-allocation priorities, in order to maximize the long-term value of the Company. The Strategic and Operational Review Committee will be chaired by Mr. Greisch and will include Mr. Barg, Ms. Ryan, Gregory T. Lucier and Jack Stahl. The Committee will make its recommendations to the full Board.

In connection with these initiatives, Catalent has entered into a Cooperation Agreement with Elliott Investment Management L.P., one of Catalents largest investors, under which Elliott has agreed to customary standstill, voting, confidentiality, and other provisions.

We are excited to welcome Steven, Frank, Stephanie, and Michelle to the Board following a thorough search process and firmly believe that their deep industry expertise, significant leadership experience, and diverse skills will prove invaluable to the Company and our stakeholders, said Mr. Greisch. Our Board shares Elliotts confidence in the long-term value creation potential of Catalent. We look forward to providing an update to the market on the work of and, ultimately, recommendations by the Strategic and Operational Review Committee following its review of the business.

We are pleased to work collaboratively with Elliott, a highly engaged investor with deep experience in the healthcare space, and we welcome our new directors to the Catalent Board, said Alessandro Maselli, President and Chief Executive Officer. The Company will continue to take decisive action to strengthen operational performance, enhance profitability, and create value for all shareholders and other stakeholders. We believe the actions announced today will advance Catalents positioning for long-term growth and success.

Elliott Senior Portfolio Manager Marc Steinberg said, With global scale and market-leading development and manufacturing capabilities, Catalent is a strategic company that plays an essential role as the partner of choice for the biopharmaceutical industry. We believe the changes announced today  including the new additions to the Board, the appointment of John Greisch as Executive Chair and the creation of a Strategic and Operational Review Committee with a clear mandate to maximize the long-term value of the Company  represent critical steps toward ensuring that Catalent reaches its full potential. We look forward to continuing our constructive work with Catalents Board and management.

The cooperation agreement with Elliott will be filed in a Current Report on Form 8-K with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Citi is serving as financial advisor and Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP and Jones Day are serving as legal counsel to Catalent.

Biographies

Steven Barg is Global Head of Engagement at Elliott Investment Management L.P. Prior to joining Elliott in February of 2020, Mr. Barg spent 30 years in investment banking, most recently as a Participating Managing Director at Goldman Sachs. During his time at Goldman Sachs, Mr. Barg established and led what became the firm's Global Activism and Shareholder Advisory practice; founded and led the M&A Capital Markets practice; and ran Asian Equity Capital Markets in Hong Kong. In addition, Mr. Barg served on both the Asian and Global Equity Commitments Committees and was Global Head of Diversity for the Investment Banking Division. Prior to joining Goldman Sachs, Mr. Barg served as a Managing Director in Equity Capital Markets at UBS and Credit Suisse, with postings in New York, Hong Kong, and London. Mr. Barg has served on the Board of Directors of Cardinal Health since September 2022.

Mr. Barg holds an M.B.A. from the Stanford University Graduate School of Business and a B.A. from Wesleyan University. In addition, Mr. Barg was a Henry Luce Scholar in Hong Kong and a Coro Fellow in Public Affairs in New York.

Frank DAmelio is the former Chief Financial Officer and Executive Vice President, Global Supply, of Pfizer Inc. where he was responsible for all corporate finance functions including audit, controllers, tax, and treasury as well as global supply. Prior to joining Pfizer, Mr. DAmelio served as Senior Executive Vice President of Integration and Chief Administrative Officer of Alcatel-Lucent, responsible for the 2006 Alcatel-Lucent merger as well as procurement, real estate, IT, and supply chain. Prior to that, Mr. DAmelio was the Chief Operating Officer of Lucent Technologies, responsible for leading business operations, including sales, the product groups, the services business, the supply chain, information technology operations, human resources, and labor relations. In 2001, he was appointed Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Lucent. In addition, Mr. DAmelio held a number of roles while at Lucent Technologies, and before that, served in a variety of positions while at AT&T, including CFO, Transmission Systems and Controller, Network Systems. Mr. DAmelio has served on the Board of Directors of Humana since September 2003, where he currently serves as Chair of the Audit Committee, on the Board of Directors of Zoetis, Inc. since July 2012, and on the Board of Directors of Hewlett Packard Enterprise since January 2023. He currently serves as a CFO in residence at the Deloitte CFO Academy.

Mr. DAmelio holds an M.B.A. in Finance from St. Johns University and a bachelors degree in Accounting from St. Peters College.

Stephanie Okey is the former Senior Vice President, Head of North America, Rare Diseases, and U.S. General Manager, Rare Diseases at Genzyme, a Sanofi company, where she worked for 19 years in various executive management roles. By the time of her retirement in July 2015, she had acquired launch and commercialization experience with nine rare disease therapeutics and 4 large market therapeutics during her career. Prior to joining Genzyme, Ms. Okey served in various positions of increasing responsibility in the biopharmaceutical industry, having held roles in field sales and marketing at Bristol Myers Squibb and later Genentech, Inc. Ms. Okey is currently a member of the board of directors of PTC Therapeutics, Inc. and Albireo Pharma, Inc., both publicly traded biopharmaceutical companies. In addition, she previously served as a member of the board of directors of the California Life Sciences Association from October 2014 to January 2016.

Ms. Okey holds a B.S. in Zoology from The Ohio State University and an M.S. in Immunology and Medical Microbiology from Wright State University. She has also completed executive training and education in manufacturing resource planning and organizational leadership.

Michelle Ryan is the former Treasurer of Johnson & Johnson, where she worked for almost 30 years. As Treasurer, Ms. Ryan was responsible for providing financial oversight and insights to Johnson & Johnsons M&A activities. Additionally, she was responsible for managing Johnson & Johnsons global retirement assets, capital market transactions, and risk management activities. Prior to her role as Treasurer, Ms. Ryan worked in various financial leadership roles across Johnson & Johnsons businesses, including as Chief Financial Officer of its Global Consumer Business and Chief Financial Officer of its Pharmaceutical Business of the Americas. Ms. Ryan has served on the board of directors of Aledade, Inc., a public benefit corporation helping independent practices, health centers, and clinics deliver better care to their patients and thrive in value-based care, since December 2021.

Ms. Ryan received a B.S. in Accounting and an M.B.A. in Finance from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania and is a Certified Public Accountant (inactive) and Certified Management Accountant (inactive).

ABOUT CATALENT

Catalent, Inc. (NYSE: CTLT), an S&P 500 company, is the global leader in enabling pharma, biotech, and consumer health partners to optimize product development, launch, and full life-cycle supply for patients around the world. With broad and deep scale and expertise in development sciences, delivery technologies, and multi-modality manufacturing, Catalent is a preferred industry partner for personalized medicines, consumer health brand extensions, and blockbuster drugs. Catalent helps accelerate over 1,000 partner programs and launch over 150 new products every year. Its flexible manufacturing platforms at over 50 global sites supply around 80 billion doses of nearly 8,000 products annually. Catalents expert workforce of approximately 18,000 includes more than 3,000 scientists and technicians. Headquartered in Somerset, New Jersey, the company generated nearly $5 billion in revenue in its 2022 fiscal year. For more information www.catalent.com.

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. All statements contained in this press release that do not relate to matters of historical fact should be considered forward-looking statements, including without limitation with respect to the Companys operational performance and profitability. These forward-looking statements are based on managements current expectations. These statements are neither promises nor guarantees, but involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other important factors that may cause actual future events, results or achievements to be materially different from the Companys expectations and projections expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. Important factors include, but are not limited to, actions of activist stockholders and those discussed under the caption Risk Factors in the Companys Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended June 30, 2022 (as amended), the Companys Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the three and nine months ended March 31, 2023, and the Companys other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this press release and are based on information available to the Company as of the date of this press release, and the Company assumes no obligation to update such forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.

Important Additional Information and Where to Find It

Catalent plans to file proxy materials with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the SEC) in connection with the solicitation of proxies for Catalents 2023 annual meeting of shareholders (the 2023 Annual Meeting). Prior to the 2023 Annual Meeting, Catalent will file a definitive proxy statement (the Proxy Statement) together with a proxy card. SHAREHOLDERS ARE URGED TO READ THE PROXY STATEMENT (INCLUDING ANY AMENDMENTS OR SUPPLEMENTS THERETO) AND ANY OTHER RELEVANT DOCUMENTS THAT CATALENT WILL FILE WITH THE SEC CAREFULLY AND IN THEIR ENTIRETY WHEN THEY BECOME AVAILABLE BECAUSE THEY WILL CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION. Shareholders will be able to obtain, free of charge, copies of the Proxy Statement, any amendments or supplements thereto and any other documents (including the proxy card) when filed by Catalent with the SEC in connection with the 2023 Annual Meeting at the SECs website (http://www.sec.gov) or at Catalents website https://investor.catalent.com/investor-home-center/default.aspx or by contacting Investor Relations by phone at (732) 537-6325, by email at [email protected].

Certain Information Regarding Participants

Catalent its directors and certain of its executive officers and other employees may be deemed to be participants in the solicitation of proxies from shareholders in connection with the 2023 Annual Meeting. Additional information regarding the identity of these potential participants, none of whom own in excess of one percent (1%) of Catalents shares, and their direct or indirect interests, by security holdings or otherwise, will be set forth in the Proxy Statement and other materials to be filed with the SEC in connection with the 2023 Annual Meeting. Information relating to the foregoing can also be found in Catalents definitive proxy statement for its 2022 annual meeting of shareholders (the 2022 Proxy Statement), filed with the SEC on September 16, 2022. To the extent holdings of Catalents securities by such potential participants (or the identity of such participants) have changed since the information printed in the 2022 Proxy Statement, such information has been or will be reflected on Statements of Change in Ownership on Forms 3 and 4 filed with the SEC. You may obtain free copies of these documents using the sources indicated above.

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Investor Contact:

Paul Surdez

+1 (732) 537-6325

[email protected]

Media Contact:

Bernie Clark

+1 (732) 537-6400

[email protected]

Source: Catalent, Inc.
DES PLAINES, Ill.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Cozzini Bros., Inc., the leading cutlery sharpening and exchange services company in the United States, today announced a strategic partnership with Market Grinding, Inc. The joint company will operate under the Cozzini Bros. name.

Market Grinding, based in Middleboro, Massachusetts, provides exceptional cutlery sharpening services to local businesses in the greater Boston region and throughout New England. The business was originally founded in Bostons historic Quincy Market in the 1930s and later acquired by Walter Maganzini, Sr. a 3rd generation knife sharpener whose family has been sharpening knives in Boston since 1891. Walter, along with his two sons, Walter Jr. and Brad, rapidly grew the company and today Market Grinding is operated by the 4th generation Maganzini brothers. Walter, Jr. and Brad will both join Cozzini as Area Managers, initially overseeing the business in territories currently serviced by Market Grinding.

Joining forces with Market Grinding is another in a long line of successful partnerships with exceptional cutlery service companies throughout the United States, said Todd Wolfe, CEO of Cozzini Bros. Market Grinding has a long history of being a premier knife sharpening company in New England, and I am thrilled to have this opportunity to partner with the Maganzini family and their team. The combination allows us to expand our footprint in other New England markets with Cozzini employees and provides us with additional delivery capacity to support our growing sales team in the Northeast.

Market Grinding is excited to partner with Cozzini Bros., noted Walter Maganzini, Jr., President of Market Grinding. Brads and my success over the years has resulted from our attention to the needs of our customers, which Cozzini shares. As a larger company, Cozzini has made investments in technology, including state-of-the-art sharpening, driver routing and customer invoicing capabilities, that is the envy of our industry. Todd and the Cozzini team worked with Brad and me to structure a transaction that met our familys needs and results in a wonderful new home for our long-time employees.

About Cozzini Bros.

Cozzini Bros, Inc. is the largest commercial knife sharpening company in the country, serving independent restaurants, restaurant chains, grocery stores and other foodservice institutions across the country. The company provides knife exchange, various ancillary services and kitchen supplies to over 90,000 customers nationwide. Established in 1905, Cozzini Bros. is headquartered in Des Plaines, Illinois.

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For more information,

[email protected]

Source: Cozzini Bros., Inc.
COLUMBUS, Ohio--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Fashion apparel retailer Express, Inc. (NYSE: EXPR) today announced that the Company will report its second quarter 2023 financial results on Wednesday, September 6, 2023, at 8:30 a.m. Eastern Time (ET). Earlier that morning, the Company will issue a press release detailing those results. The conference call will be hosted by Tim Baxter, Chief Executive Officer, and Jason Judd, Chief Financial Officer.

Investors and analysts interested in participating in the earnings call are invited to dial (888) 550-5723 approximately ten minutes prior to the start of the call. The conference call will also be webcast live at www.express.com/investor. A telephone replay of this call will be available beginning at 12:00 p.m. ET on September 6, 2023, until 11:59 p.m. ET on September 13, 2023, and can be accessed by dialing (800) 770-2030 and entering the replay pin number 1790468. In addition, an investor presentation of second quarter 2023 results will be available at www.express.com/investor beginning at approximately 7:00 a.m. ET on September 6, 2023.

About EXPR

EXPR is a multi-brand fashion retailer whose portfolio includes Express, Bonobos and UpWest. The Company operates an omnichannel platform as well as physical and online stores. Grounded in a belief that style, quality and value should all be found in one place, Express is a brand with a purpose - We Create Confidence. We Inspire Self-Expression. - powered by a styling community. Bonobos is a menswear brand known for exceptional fit and an innovative retail model. UpWest is an apparel, accessories and home goods brand with a purpose to Provide Comfort for People & Planet.

The Company has 530 Express retail and Express Factory Outlet stores in the United States and Puerto Rico, the Express.com online store and the Express mobile app; 60 Bonobos Guideshop locations and the Bonobos.com online store; and 11 UpWest retail stores and the UpWest.com online store. EXPR is traded on the NYSE under the symbol EXPR. For more information about our Company, please visit www.express.com/investor and for more information about our brands, please visit www.express.com, www.bonobos.com or www.upwest.com.

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Investor Contact

Greg Johnson

VP, Investor Relations

[email protected]

614-474-4890

Source: Express, Inc.
GlyCat demonstrates industry-leading 78% gold recovery for heap leaching

Expected 70% reduction in reagent costs

Reduces operating risk through mitigation of local cyanide supply disruption

PRAGUE--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Draslovka a.s. (Draslovka), a leading specialty chemicals company, announces it has executed a user license with Bayan Airag Exploration LLC in Mongolia for the world's first application of its proprietary glycine gold leaching process, GlyCatTM (GlyCat), in a commercial heap leaching application. Application of the technology has commenced to extract gold from ores mined from its Golden Hills and Limestone Ridge pits.

The decision to fully implement the technology on its heap leach operations was made following site-based testing and culminating in a 1000-tonne trial heap leach. The collaboration involved staff from Draslovkas Perth-based mining innovation centre and Bayan Airag site-based staff. The recent heap leach trial demonstrated higher recoveries than conventional cyanidation, with 78% overall gold recovery. This was achieved with a 65% reduction in cyanide and high recyclability of the glycine. Overall, due to high cyanide unit costs, the total reagent costs are projected to be reduced by over 70%.

The Bayan Airag mines are located in Mongolia where temperatures are regularly sub-zero making the trial and forward commercial application of the technology of interest to other cold climate applications globally.

Ivor Bryan, Chief Technology Officer of Draslovka Mining Solutions, commented:

Working with the Bayan Airag team has been a fantastic collaboration and is an exciting milestone for Draslovka. GlyCats use in heap leaching applications demonstrates equivalent or better recoveries and step change reduction in operating costs. This provides opportunities for our clients to extend mine life and convert uneconomic ores and wastes into viable metal production opportunities. We look forward to expanding our strong relationship with Bayan Airag as it considers other projects in its area of operations and as a foundation for further applications in Mongolia.

Peter Thompson, Chief Executive Officer of Bayan Airag, added:

At Bayan Airag where we often have challenges in cyanide supply and costs, we saw the GlyCat process as an opportunity to reduce our reliance on cyanide and to use a much more eco-friendly alternative that provides sustainability to our Mongolian business and improved outcomes to the community in which we work. It also gives us an advantage for when we encounter high levels of copper in our gold-silver ore. We are proud that the Bayan Airag mine is the first mine in Mongolia to use GlyCat and the first instance of commercial implementation of GlyCat in a heap leach anywhere in the world.

ENDS

About Draslovka

Draslovka Holdings a.s. (Draslovka) is a global leader in cyanide-based chemical specialties and agricultural chemicals including next-generation fumigants and biocides. Utilising the companys significant expertise, Draslovka develops and scales solutions which are vital for delivering sustainable growth at pace. A private holding company based in the Czech Republic, it is owned by four Czech families and has more than 100 years of experience in hydrogen cyanide (HCN) production and HCN chemistry. The company specializes in the production of fully synthetic and highly purified liquid HCN, which undergoes further processing for application in a variety of downstream products ranging from the mining through to agriculture sectors. Through its scalable chemistry-based solutions, Draslovka aims to unlock transformation and be the leading global player in the production of cyanides for use in synthesis, mining, and industrial and agricultural applications, with safety and environmental sustainability at the heart of all its operations.

About Bayan Airag

Bayan Airag Exploration is a Mongolian mining company, operating since 2014 at a rate of 1m tonnes of ore per year, and the first mining project operating in Zavkhan province. Bayan Airag Exploration is committed to delivering sustainable development to host communities through responsible mining, protection of the environment and an unwavering focus on safety. The company has implemented numerous projects to support and develop host communities, including infrastructure, development of small businesses, livestock and pasture land management, cultural heritage, education and community health.

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FTI Consulting

Viktor Pomichal / Ariadna D. Peretz

Tel: +44 (0) 7890 417764

Email: [email protected]

Bayan Airag

Peter Thompson, CEO

Email: [email protected]

Source: Draslovka a.s.
LONDON--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- H.I.G. Capital, LLC ("H.I.G."), a leading global alternative investment firm with $58 billion of capital under management, is pleased to announce that it has obtained LEED Platinum certification on the recently refurbished Basel Marriott Hotel in Basel, Switzerland.

The property, previously known as Swissotel Basel, underwent a significant renovation and rebranding programme and is now the Basel Marriott Hotel. The hotel is located in close proximity to the Congress Centre and Messe Basel which host prestigious events such as Art Basel, in addition to numerous notable medical and life-sciences conferences, as Basel is one of the largest life-sciences hubs in Europe. As a result of the renovation and rebrand, the hotel is now a leader in its reference market.

Riccardo Dallolio, Managing Director and Head of H.I.G. Realty in Europe commented: We have successfully implemented our value-add plan on our Hotel in Basel which now benefits from state-of-the-art facilities and rooms resulting in strong operating performance.

Alessio Lucentini, Managing Director and Head of Asset Management at H.I.G. Realty in Europe, added: We have recently strengthened our Asset Management team with the addition of Federico Faravelli, formerly Head of Asset Management U.K. and Ireland at AXA Real Assets and a specialist in ESG. In addition to achieving LEED Platinum in Basel, we have recently achieved LEED Gold on two of our other assets in Italy. This has also allowed us to reduce the borrowing costs for the two assets, and helped reduce operating costs due to the properties improved energy efficiency. We will continue to focus on ESG initiatives that can add value to our portfolio.

About H.I.G. Capital

H.I.G. is a leading global alternative investment firm with $58 billion of equity capital under management.* Based in Miami, and with European offices in London, Hamburg, Madrid, Milan, Paris and U.S. and Latin American offices in New York, Boston, Chicago, Dallas, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Atlanta, Bogota, Rio de Janeiro, Sao Paulo. H.I.G. specializes in providing both debt and equity capital to middle market companies, utilizing a flexible and operationally focused/value-added approach:

H.I.G.s equity funds invest in management buyouts, recapitalizations and corporate carve-outs of both profitable as well as underperforming manufacturing and service businesses. H.I.G.s debt funds invest in senior, unitranche and junior debt financing to companies across the size spectrum, both on a primary (direct origination) basis, as well as in the secondary markets. H.I.G. also manages a publicly traded BDC, WhiteHorse Finance. H.I.G.s real estate funds invest in value-added properties, which can benefit from improved asset management practices. H.I.G. Infrastructure focuses on making value-add and core plus investments in the infrastructure sector.

Since its founding in 1993, H.I.G. has invested in and managed more than 400 companies worldwide. The firm's current portfolio includes more than 100 companies with combined sales in excess of $52 billion. For more information, please refer to the H.I.G. website at www.higcapital.com.

* Based on total capital raised by H.I.G. Capital and its affiliates.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230829432299/en/

Riccardo Dallolio

Managing Director

[email protected]



H.I.G. Capital

P +44 (0) 207 318 5700

F +44 (0) 207 318 5749

www.higcapital.com

Source: H.I.G. Capital, LLC
IRVING, Texas--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- HighGround Restoration Group, INC., a national leader in the water mitigation and restoration industry, and a portfolio company of Trivest Partners LP (Trivest), announces the addition of Allphase Roofing & Restoration (Allphase or the Company) (https://allphaserestore.com/) to its growing family of brands.

Allphase, headquartered in Columbus, Ohio, was founded by Hassan Ayoub in 2010 and services central Ohio with additional coverage in the Cleveland, Ohio market. The company has carved a niche for itself in the restoration industry with its comprehensive service offerings, along with its unwavering dedication to quality and customer satisfaction. With a rich history spanning several years, Allphase Restoration has consistently demonstrated excellence in water damage restoration, roofing, mold remediation, fire damage repair, and other related services.

Hassan spoke about joining HighGround by stating, Joining forces with HighGround Restoration offers a wealth of opportunities and career progression for our team. With HighGround's leadership echoing our core principles, our joint commitment to outstanding service is reinforced. Together, we anticipate a transformative phase of innovation, growth, and enhanced service for our team and the communities we're privileged to serve.

HighGround CEO, Ben Balsley, remarked, "We are excited to welcome Allphase to the HighGround family. The acquisition provides us with a strong foothold in the Ohio market with plenty of runway to build on Allphases track record of growth. Hassan has built a great brand, culture, and team. With that foundation and HighGrounds support, Im confident in a successful future.

Trivest, the private equity firm backing HighGround, also weighed in on the acquisition. Our partnership with Allphase is a significant step forward for our platform. Allphases track record of offering exceptional restoration services to residential and commercial customers in Ohio is impressive. As they integrate with our HighGround family of brands, we anticipate an exciting expansion of our platform in the Midwest, stated Reid Callaway, Principal.

The HighGround family of restoration brands proudly expands its portfolio with the inclusion of Allphase Roofing & Restoration. Alongside this new addition, the family of brands includes: Dry Force, Cleanup & Total Restoration (CTR), Power Dry, More Floods, Dririte, Northeast Power Dry, Same Day Restoration, PureDry Restoration, Rocky Mountain Restoration, Expert Water Removal, and Allklean. Representing every U.S. region, HighGround is on the lookout for brands and visionary founders who resonate with its core values of people, service, and growth. If you are interested in learning more or joining the HighGround family of brands, reach out at [email protected] or visit www.highgroundnow.com.

About HighGround:

No ones ever prepared for the chaos that comes with water, mold, fire, or smoke damage. And some contractors only make it worse. The property owner needs help from someone who knows what theyre doing  and who genuinely cares. And thats why our family of brands come to work every day. Together, we turn chaos into calm.

HighGround brands help customers who have suffered water or fire damage by providing 24/7/365 emergency response drying and clean up services coupled with restoration and repair contracting, all while engaging with the customers insurance company to ensure seamless claims processing. Our brands have developed a robust referral program with residential and commercial partners by offering services such as hosted education and training, reporting and analytics, and competitive incentive compensation. This comprehensive approach allows HighGround to stay top of mind with these key referral relationships.

About Trivest:

Trivest Partners, with offices in Miami, Charlotte, Chicago, Los Angeles, Philadelphia, and Toronto, is a private investment firm that focuses exclusively on the support and growth of founder-led and family-owned businesses in the U.S. and Canada, in both control and non-control transactions. Since its founding in 1981, Trivest has completed more than 500 investments, totaling approximately $8 billion in value. The firm has roughly $5 billion in assets under management, with a growing team of over 80 professionals. Learn more at www.trivest.com

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230829389097/en/

Brian McNeal

[email protected]

Source: HighGround
IRVINE, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Ingram Micro today published its 2022 Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Report, detailing the company's progress towards its key impact goals and continued transparency with ESG reporting frameworks for the 2022 calendar year.

Im honored to lead a team of approximately 27,000 associates worldwide who have mobilized to move the needle on our ambitious ESG goals, said Paul Bay, CEO of Ingram Micro. The spirit of continuous improvement and innovation that helps us meet the evolving needs of our customers as a preferred and trusted partner, is the same one that drives our forward momentum around critical ESG matters.

Ingram Micro took significant steps to advance its ESG initiatives in 2022. In August of last year, leadership further solidified company ESG commitments by announcing its 10 to Zero initiative, setting forth its ambitious goals to achieve three major operational milestoneszero greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, zero waste, and zero recordable safety incidentsby 2030. The company also recognizes the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DE&I) in leadership and has committed to creating a team where leaders demographically and culturally represent associates in each of their operations by 2030.

To accompany these targets, during 2022 Ingram Micro launched dedicated environmental sustainability and ESG programs called IngramMicroPlanetary and IngramMicroESG, and made investments in its DE&I program, Together at Ingram Micro. Each of these programs is designed to improve the companys measurement, accountability, and collaboration in high-impact ESG areas to support goal attainment.

Additional 2022 ESG highlights include:

A letter of commitment was submitted to the Science-based Target initiative (SBTi) to certify the company's emissions reduction targets within the next two years.

Began phase-out of plastic mailers and made a commitment to complete this transition by the end of 2023.

Completed first full Scope 3 greenhouse gas (GHG) inventory.

Incorporated ESG into annual performance reviews and added ESG-related questions into the companys annual associate engagement Our Company, Our Voice survey.

survey. Invested in additional professional roles to support DE&I efforts.

Conducted the companys third materiality assessment, engaging both internal and external stakeholders to understand impacts on the business, as well as business impacts on the environment, people, and economy.

In general, Ingram Micros ESG programs have been developed, and the report drafted, in line with internationally recognized standards and frameworks, including the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI), the Sustainability Accounting Standards Board (SASB), and the Task Force on Climate-Related Financial Disclosures (TCFD), as well as the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The company also discloses through EcoVadis and CDP on specific topics and is an active member of the UN Global Compact.

The full report is available for download here. To learn more about IngramMicroESG, please visit our website: https://www.ingrammicro.com/en-us/discover/esg.

Ingram Micro values stakeholder feedback. Please send any questions or comments to [email protected].

Participate in the social conversation using #IngramMicroESG.

Editors: For current and historical images, visit our Press Releases page: https://www.ingrammicro.com/en-us/company/press-releases.

About Ingram Micro

Ingram Micro is the business behind the worlds brands reaching nearly 90 percent of the worlds population. Our market reach, diverse solutions portfolio, and digital platform Ingram Micro Xvantage set us apart. We have approximately 27,000 associates committed to serving our more than 161,000 customers and 1,500 vendor partners worldwide. Learn more at www.ingrammicro.com.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230829333185/en/

Lisa Zwick

Ingram Micro

[email protected]

Source: Ingram Micro
The Plan Offers a Low-Cost Marketplace for Employers

KNOXVILLE, Tenn.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Employers and their employees in the greater Knoxville area now have a new health plan option provided through the East Tennessee Health Plan. The East Tennessee Health Plan provides employees access to quality comprehensive medical care while improving healthcare costs for employers.

The East Tennessee Health Plan option is a strategic initiative by respected provider organizations, including The University of Tennessee Medical Center (UTMC), Tennova Healthcare and Summit Medical Group working with population health management programs administered through the American Health Data Institute (AHDI). This plan represents an integrated approach that enables employers to control healthcare costs while offering employees access to the care that they need. By offering preferred community-based pricing, the plan provides cost savings and value to employers and employees. East Tennessee Health Plans collaboration with AHDI will reduce costs for employers, promote best practices through evidence-based care, improve employee health and well-being and share analytics to address budget, cost drivers and focused intervention for better outcomes.

As an employer, we understand how critical it is to take care of the lives of employees and their family members, said Tony Benton, CEO, Tennova Healthcare. Year over year, we have seen employers faced with difficult decisions on how to provide quality, cost-effective healthcare to their employees, thus keeping their workforce healthy and productive. Every year, premiums rise, out-of-pocket costs increase, and coverage is limited. We saw a need to provide an alternative for our community, and we are honored to collaborate with The University of Tennessee Medical Center, Summit Medical Group and Key Benefit Administrators to help provide this new insurance plan option.

The University of Tennessee Medical Center believes employers should have access to high-quality, low-cost healthcare coverage for their workforce, said Joseph R. Landsman Jr., President and Chief Executive Officer of UTMC. Partnering with Tennova and Summit Medical Group provides employers in the East Tennessee area the option to directly contract with healthcare providers, including a nationally recognized academic medical center.

Collaborating with Key Benefit Administrators (KBA) and the American Health Data Institute (AHDI), East Tennessee Health Plan will provide a population health management system supported by the strength of a high-quality network of providers.

Its time for employers and employees to directly connect with healthcare providers in their community on a level never before attained, said Larry Dust, CEO of KBA and AHDI. These strategies embedded into the East Tennessee Health Plan are creative, patented and proven to lower healthcare costs for employers while improving the health of employees. All of us at Key Benefit and the American Health Data Institute are very excited about our collaboration with the East Tennessee Health Plan.

This plan is available to all employers. For more information about the East Tennessee Health Plan, visit easttnhealthplan.com.

About East Tennessee Health Plan

East Tennessee Health Plan believes in its mission to deliver quality care and service. By choosing us, you are choosing high-quality healthcare for employees and their dependents.

USING RISK MANAGEMENT TECHNIQUES FOR HIGH-QUALITY OUTCOMES AND LOWER COSTS

EAST TENNESSEE HEALTH PLAN is a community-based solution to combat rising healthcare costs powered by top-tier local providers working as one of the largest health networks in East Tennessee. Our network of quality medical providers includes 2,000 clinicians and over 1,400 beds included with Tennova Healthcare and The University of Tennessee Medical Center, other local independent primary and specialty practices and a national wrap network to allow plan participants to seek high-quality and cost-efficient care.





EAST TENNESSEE HEALTH PLAN is a collaborative effort between Tennova Healthcare, The University of Tennessee Medical Center and many local providers in the East Tennessee area.

About Key Benefit Administrators (KBA)

Key Benefit Administrators (KBA)  The Key Family of Companies  was founded in 1979 as a full-service group benefits administration firm specializing in self-funded medical plans. Since that time, the Key Family has grown to become one of the countrys largest independently owned third-party administrators, supporting a wide variety of group benefit plans. With its two major locations in Indianapolis, Indiana, and Fort Mill, South Carolina, the Key Family is a commonly held group of benefits-related organizations with over 400 employees, over 3,000 corporate customers, and over 3 million members under management. Information about The Key Family of Companies can be found at https://keybenefit.com/family-of-companies/.

About Tennova Healthcare

The Tennova Healthcare network of hospitals in East Tennessee includes Jefferson Memorial Hospital, LaFollette Medical Center, Newport Medical Center, North Knoxville Medical Center and Turkey Creek Medical Center with nearly 16,000 admissions, 410,000 outpatient visits and 125,000 emergency department visits each year. Turkey Creek Medical Center is a Level III Trauma Center, recognized by The Joint Commission for Hip and Knee, BCBS Distinction - Hip and Knee, BCBS Distinction - Bariatrics, Institute of Quality in Bariatrics, Cigna Center of Excellence for Bariatrics, The Joint Commission Center of Excellence Bariatrics, Get with the Guidelines Silver Plus Stroke Quality Achievement Award, NCDR ACC Chest Pain MI Registry Platinum Performance Award, Commission on Cancer Certification, Mammography ACR Accreditation. For more information go to Tennova.com.

About The University of Tennessee Medical Center

The mission of The University of Tennessee Medical Center (UTMC), a Magnet recognized hospital also certified by The Joint Commission as a Comprehensive Stroke Center, is to serve through healing, education and discovery. UTMC is a 710-bed, not-for-profit academic medical center, with a regional network of primary care and specialty care physicians and practices as well as outpatient regional health centers and urgent care locations throughout its 21-county primary service area. The medical center, the regions ACS-verified Level I Trauma Center and state designated regional perinatal referral center with a Level III private room NICU, is one of the largest employers in Knoxville. UTMC features nine Centers of Excellence, including the Brain & Spine Institute, Cancer Institute, Emergency & Trauma Center, Heart Lung Vascular Institute, Orthopaedic Institute, Center for Complex Medicine, Center for Perioperative Medicine, Primary Care Collaborative and Center for Women & Infants. Visit UTMedicalCenter.org for more information.

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Sydney Plichta, [email protected]

Source: Key Benefit Administrators
Meter DNS Security empowers IT teams to control and limit the type of content passing through their network in the most efficient way

SAN FRANCISCO--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Meter, Inc., a leader in Network as a Service (NaaS) for businesses, today announced DNS Security, built in partnership with Cloudflare, the security, performance, and reliability company. Meter DNS Security is now widely available for all Meter Network customers, expanding Meters existing NaaS offering and saving teams both time and money, while also improving overall network performance and security, powered by Cloudflares Zero Trust platform.

With the number of devices on a network expected to triple by 2030, modern businesses and organizations demand enterprise network controls to ensure safety and peak performance for business critical functions, said Anil Varanasi, CEO and co-founder of Meter. Meter DNS Security is the latest example of how were continuing to offer our customers enterprise level networks end-to-end. Through our partnership with Cloudflare, were enhancing our capabilities to meet the needs of IT professionals at industrial warehouses, educational institutions, security firms, and more.

Meter DNS Security eliminates the hassle of having multiple vendors, by providing content filtering at several layers to all customers within the Meter Dashboard in partnership with one of the best providers in the world.

Were proud to have Meter leveraging Cloudflares Zero Trust platform in a new way, offering our DNS filtering feature natively built into their Meter Dashboard, said John Graham-Cumming, CTO, Cloudflare. By building on Cloudflare's platform, Meter enables customers to manage their teams operations at scale, as well as effectively enforce global corporate policies across diverse corporate spaces, such as offices, schools, and warehouses.

In addition to the ease and scalability of Meter DNS Security, users are ensuring security through enhanced compliance by blocking access to known malicious websites and bad actors. The integration and partnership with Cloudflare provides customers with faster DNS response times, while optimizing network performance by limiting access to high-bandwidth websites and services. Real world examples of this process include, but are not limited to:

Ensuring a safe browsing environment at schools by filtering out age inappropriate content

Optimizing network performance for warehouses by filtering high bandwidth activities like video streaming

Maintaining high security and compliance standards by filtering malicious or illegal content

Tishman Speyer has successfully partnered with Meter to streamline the networking and Wi-Fi experience for our customers, said Simon Okunev, Managing Director and Chief Information Officer, Tishman Speyer. The addition of Meters DNS Security feature, powered by Cloudflare, will further benefit our customers by providing an additional layer of security.

For more information on Meters partnership with Cloudflare and launch of DNS Security, please visit https://www.meter.com/dns-security.

About Meter

Meter provides internet infrastructure for businesses. Meter was founded in 2015 to build enterprise-grade networks that are faster, more accessible, and more secure. Customers like Brex, Retool, Stord, Veho and Tishman Speyer trust Meter to run their networks. The company is backed by Sequoia Capital, Sam Altman of OpenAI, and Lachy Groom. Others involved include VMware founder Diane Greene, Goldman Sachs CEO David Solomon, former Walt Disney Studios Chairman Jeffrey Katzenberg, Silverlake founder and Co-CEO Egon Durban, Stripe co-founders John and Patrick Collison, and Tobi Lutke of Shopify. Meter was named to Fast Companys Most Innovative Companies in 2023.

About Cloudflare

Cloudflare, Inc. (www.cloudflare.com / @cloudflare) is on a mission to help build a better Internet. Cloudflares suite of products protect and accelerate any Internet application online without adding hardware, installing software, or changing a line of code. Internet properties powered by Cloudflare have all web traffic routed through its intelligent global network, which gets smarter with every request. As a result, they see significant improvement in performance and a decrease in spam and other attacks. Cloudflare was awarded by Reuters Events for Global Responsible Business in 2020, named to Fast Company's Most Innovative Companies in 2021, and ranked among Newsweek's Top 100 Most Loved Workplaces in 2022.

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Will Vogel

[email protected]

Source: Meter, Inc.
HOLLYWOOD, Fla.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Mixlab, the first modern full-service pet pharmacy, today announced their expansion into the southeast with a new pharmacy now open in Hollywood, Florida.

With 5 million more pets in the US since the pandemic, pet spending is expected to grow 8% annually and reach $368 billion by 20301. Theres more need than ever for a quick and reliable pharmacy partner. With the opening of a pharmacy in Florida, Mixlab will be able to provide even better service, coverage and delivery times across the United States, especially in the south. In addition to free next-day delivery, Mixlab will start offering free local pickup, and same-day delivery for an added fee within 30 miles of the pharmacy (from West Palm Beach to Miami), making it even more convenient for veterinarians and pet parents in Southeast Florida.

When deciding where to go next, we looked into a multitude of factors, explained Libby Loskota, Head of Sales and Marketing at Mixlab, Theres so much opportunity in Southeast Florida to partner with veterinarians and serve the growing pet population with fast and free pet med delivery. We have aggressive growth goals for the rest of 2023 and are really looking forward to growing our presence in the south.

Florida has over 2000 clinics, 4000 veterinarians and 4 million households with pets. Looking at the overall landscape, theres so much potential for us! said Fred Dijols, CEO of Mixlab.

From a proprietary prescription management platform to a partner API that connects external practice management systems into Mixlabs pharmacy, Mixlab is disrupting the veterinary pharmacy space by utilizing technology to make it easier for veterinarians and pet parents to prescribe and get medications quickly.

This expansion announcement comes on the heels of Mixlabs recent round of funding. In an environment where many companies are having a challenging time, Mixlab secured a $10M funding round led by Vanterra Ventures, with participation from Lakehouse Ventures and others, a testament to the potential that lays ahead.

About Mixlab

Mixlab is the modern, best-in-class compounding veterinary pharmacy, based in New York and Los Angeles. Founded in 2017, Mixlab is digitally transforming the veterinarian-led prescription medication process, making it easier for veterinarians while delivering a superior customer experience for pet parents. Mixlab is a PCAB-accredited compounding pharmacy that services clients throughout the US. Mixlab has financial backing from Global Founders Capital, Vanterra Ventures, Lakehouse Ventures, Sonoma Brands, Monogram Capital, Brand Foundry, and others. Read more about Mixlab at www.mixlab.com.

Sources

1 Fortune Business Insights

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230829059199/en/

Valerie Ying, Director of Marketing, [email protected]

Source: Mixlab
Streamlined registration and training will support nurse volunteer preparation as U.S. enters peak disaster season

SALT LAKE CITY--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Nursa, a nationwide platform that exists to put a nurse at the bedside of every patient in need, today announced a partnership with the American Red Cross to aid in staffing disaster relief sites with nurse volunteers. Launching as the U.S. enters peak disaster season, the partnership will leverage Nursas growing nationwide nurse community to increase the number of trained nurse volunteers who are ready to deploy in support of the Red Cross whenever and wherever disasters strike.

If you ask nurses why they do what they do, most will tell you its because they want to help others. This partnership provides a simple pathway for nurses to help their neighbors in times of need, said Nursa Founder and CEO Curtis Anderson. Nursas real-time technology platform and nationwide community of talented nurses perfectly position us to support the American Red Cross in growing the number of qualified, local nurses who are ready to provide rapid response to disasters in their communities.

While disasters can occur any time of year, the U.S. typically experiences an uptick in weather-related disasters beginning in August and running through October. Moreover, the NOAA National Centers for Environmental Information reports major natural disasters are becoming more frequent, with eight out of the 10 years with the highest number of natural disasters having occurred in the last decade.

Through this partnership, Nursas fast-growing community of more than 95,000 nurses can apply to volunteer with the Red Cross directly through Nursa. Each volunteer candidate will then complete a few hours of virtual training on Red Cross disaster protocols before they are approved to mobilize when volunteers are needed following a disaster.

Interested nurses can visit this link for more information and to register.

As a Red Cross nurse, I have the privilege of working with those impacted by a disaster and to assist them with their health-related recovery needs, said American Red Cross nurse volunteer Karen Younger. It is meaningful and rewarding work, to be able to use my nursing knowledge and skills as a volunteer and to make a difference in the lives of others. And being a Red Cross nurse is also a wonderful opportunity to form new and lasting friendships with other disaster responders.

Each year, Red Cross volunteers help respond to more than 60,000 disasters. More than 11,000 nurses and health professionals make up the organizations volunteer pool. From working in military hospitals to collecting blood and working one-on-one with victims, there are numerous opportunities to help communities impacted by disasters through the Red Cross.

About Nursa

Nursa is a nationwide platform that exists to put a nurse at the bedside of every patient in need quickly and safely, removing the financial strain and operational gaps of traditional staffing methods. Nursas real-time technology enables hospitals, health systems, skilled nursing facilities and community organizations to easily secure qualified, local nursing talent for per diem shifts. Founded in 2019 and built on the bedrock granite of Lake Bonneville in Salt Lake City, Nursa is trusted by a growing community of more than 1,300 facilities and 95,000 nurses nationwide and is accredited by The Joint Commission. For more information, visit Nursa.com.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230829881563/en/

Media Contact:

Innsena for Nursa

[email protected]

Source: Nursa
Funds Raised Will Support Mental Health Services for Pittsburgh's LGBTQ+ Community

PITTSBURGH--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Persad Center is pleased to announce its 36th annual Art for Change 2023 event will take place on Friday, September 22 at Stage AE on the North Shore. The event, which includes one of the region's most significant art auctions, will help support Persad Center's mission of providing mental health services to the LGBTQ+ community and people living with HIV/AIDS. Tickets are on sale now at www.PersadArtForChange.com.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230829499910/en/

Boom Power, Tavi by Arellano Gustavo, 36 x 48, Acrylic paint and puffy paint with ultra gloss epoxy finish on canvas

New for 2023, Art for Change boasts expanded galleries curated by well-known local and national artists, including Anita Henley Carrington, Madeline Gent (Associated Artists of Pittsburgh), Steve Mendelson (Mendelson Gallery), Adam Milliron, Ellen Chisdes Neuberg (Gallerie CHIZ), Stacy Weiss (Weisshouse), Monmade, and Radiant Hall. There will also be a memorial gallery with works of art from the Estate of Wendi Miller, curated by her son, Cooper Miller. Wendi was an extraordinary and brave trans woman who owned Miller Framing in East Liberty. She was a former Persad board member and long-time supporter of the mission.

Mia Tarducci, this years Art for Change Committee Chair, has selected an additional 50-75 pieces submitted from the generous, loyal art community that will be juried into the main gallery section of the show. The Live Auction, a highlight of the event, will include 8-12 pieces of artwork from artists including Baron Batch, Burton Morris, Michael Lotenaro, Steve Mendelson, Ellen Chisdes Neuberg, Tavi, Mia Tarducci, Mark Zets, and the Herb Ritts Foundation.

According to Marty Healey, Chief Executive Officer of Persad Center, The mental health of the LGBTQ+ community is significant. Art for Change has been the catalyst to provide much-needed funds to those who need our specialized services. The artwork weve received is a testament to the important connection between the community, the arts, and mental health.

For the second year in a row, Persad continues its give-back program, which allows participating artists the option to receive a portion of the proceeds from the sale of their work. Said Healey, The regions art community has supported Persad and we are pleased to be able to continue to support them as they have supported us over the years.

Art for Change 2023 is presented by UPMC with support from PA Health & Wellness, PNC, Fed Ex and Nemacolin.

About Persad Center

Founded in 1972, Persad Center is the second-oldest LGBTQ+ behavioral services agency in the U.S. The agency improves the lives and well-being of the LGBTQ+ community and people living with HIV/AIDS through counseling, psychiatry, groups, Teletherapy and social support from youth to seniors throughout Western Pennsylvania.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230829499910/en/

Christine Bryan

412-378-3622

[email protected]

Source: Persad Center
TEL-AVIV, Israel--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Phoenix Holdings Ltd., a leading Israel-based financial, insurance, and investment group (TASE: PHOE), today announces that the tender offer for the shares of Gama, a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company, was accepted at a rate that allows for the forced purchase of the holdings of the offerees who did not accept the offer, in accordance with the provisions of Section 337 of the Companies Law 5599-1999. After the purchase of all the shares of the offerees, Gama will become a private company (a reporting corporation) which is fully owned by Phoenix Investments, but will remain a reporting entity in accordance with and subject to the provisions of the law, and as long as the bonds (series B and C) of the company are held by the public.

Eyal Ben Simon, CEO of Phoenix Holdings, said, Expanding our credit segment is a significant part of the groups strategic plan. Completion of the tender offer for the shares of Gama constitutes another significant step in the implementation of this plan. Gama is an excellent company that has been operating successfully for years in the SME credit sector, and has been showing impressive growth and strong performance for the past two years, even in difficult market conditions. I am convinced that the company, led by the management team and employees, will contribute greatly to strengthening the credit segment of the entire group.

About Phoenix Holdings

Phoenix Holdings is a leading Israel-based financial, insurance, and investment group traded on the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange (TLV: PHOE). Group activities include multi-line insurance, asset management, credit, and financial product distribution, and have demonstrated strong growth and performance across the cycle. The Phoenix serves a significant portion of Israeli households with a broad set of activities and solutions across businesses and client segments. Managing over $100 billion in assets, the Phoenix accesses Israels vibrant and innovative economic activity through a robust investment portfolio, creating value for both clients and shareholders.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230829652659/en/

Robert Brinberg

Rose & Company

Email: [email protected]

Tel: +1 (212) 517-0810

Source: Phoenix Holdings Ltd.
RealWear Kicks Off its Free Your Hands Around-the-World Tour as Part of Launch

VANCOUVER, Wash.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- RealWear, Inc., the pioneer of hands-free wearable computers for frontline workers, announced today the launch of its next generation Intrinsically Safe (IS) headset, RealWear Navigator Z1. Built for productivity and safety in industries such as oil and gas, pharmaceuticals, and mining, the hands-free IS wearable solution frees a workers hands to make operations smarter, safer, and more efficient.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230829172583/en/

RealWear introduces RealWear Navigator Z1, a light yet rugged hands-free intrinsically safe industrial wearable solution for productivity and safety for use in highly restricted zones. (Photo: Business Wire)

Whether conducting an inspection round on a rig at sea or repairing mission-critical production equipment, RealWear Navigator Z1 is certified for use in areas where nearly all electronics are strictly prohibited due to the potential risk of explosion or combustion. The industrial wearable solution can be used on sites including oil and gas production areas, processing mills, chemical facilities, and mines.

With the launch of RealWear Navigator Z1, were offering the smartest and lightest IS wearable with integrated battery available to frontline workers who work in some of the most challenging sites on earth, said Dr. Chris Parkinson, co-founder and CEO of RealWear. These workers are often still outfitted, frankly, with ineffective or old equipment. In addition to the extensive range of upgrades of our latest headset, were especially keen to introduce AI Core and 5G IS connectivity to create a new frontier of smart, connected wearable solutions for frontline workers.

Purpose Built to Reduce Downtime

According to a research study by Kimberlite, as noted in a GE perspective paper titled, The Impact of Digital on Unplanned Downtime, Just 3.65 downtime days per year can cost organizations $5.037 million each year. Averaging just over 27 days of downtime each year, offshore oil and gas organizations experience $38 million in financial impacts from unplanned downtime.

Workers racing to get equipment back online face an array of challenges, including extended work hours, high stress, adverse weather, and communication issues. RealWear Navigator Z1 is specially designed for use cases that include equipment troubleshooting via remote expert guidance, virtual training, as well as for workers using field services management (FSM) or streamlined inspection data management systems (IDMS).

The new capabilities of RealWear Navigator Z1, when used with purpose-built software, enable optimized hands-free solutions for:

Remote expert guidance and training. Remote experts can conduct in-the-moment maintenance and repair, potentially reducing costly travel and downtime using popular apps like Microsoft Teams and Zoom;

Field Services Management (FSM). Using just simple voice commands, workers can connect to FSM enterprise AI systems such as hands-free solutions from RealWear and OverIT to handle work orders safely and quickly, and conduct asset maintenance at reduced operational costs; and,

Equipment and Site Inspection Rounds. Inspectors can traverse safely around a job site, take high quality photos and dictate notes using the field data collection component of an Inspection Data Management System (IDMS) such as hands-free solutions from RealWear and HUVR. From there, the captured data is instantly uploaded and geocoded for integrity verification, auditing and compliance purposes. The solution saves time and money, while enhancing safety and enabling further automation, 3D digital twins and AI.

The RealWear Navigator Z1 has more than 20 major technical improvements (see product data sheet) over prior devices including:

The introduction of RealWears new AI Core, the most powerful processor ever in a RealWear device, especially designed for on-device enhanced AI experiences;

Significantly lighter for added comfort, while maintaining its ruggedness and durability;

Improved screen visibility with HD 720p display;

High resolution front-facing camera (48 MP) for better remote collaboration and low-light image capture for inspections and auditing;

Wider temperature range for use in more climates and environments;

Enhanced noise cancellation for improved voice-responsiveness and accuracy;

Improved connectivity with faster Wi-Fi 6 and an optional 5G IS solution for private and secure enterprise connectivity;

with faster Wi-Fi 6 and an optional 5G IS solution for private and secure enterprise connectivity; A thermal camera module to spot invisible issues before they become critical;

A removable integrated snag-free battery for enhanced safety and for extended use; and,

Enterprise Secure Android 12.

As part of the solution, with RealWears enterprise-grade RealWear Cloud web portal, device administrators can add approved apps to the headset, adjust a variety of settings, and even remotely connect to the headset to offer remote device troubleshooting.

Intrinsically Smart. Enabling AI for Frontline Workers

To take full advantage of the powerful Qualcomm 6490 chipset, RealWear has begun to offer early access of the new headset to its global developer community. RealWear customers can expect both entirely new hands-free solutions as well as significant enhancements to existing solutions.

Were thrilled that RealWear is utilizing the Qualcomm 6490 platform in RealWear Navigator Z1 that will help frontline workers in extremely hazardous zones where rugged equipment and safety is essential, said Jeff Henckels, director of XR Product Management, Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. The Qualcomm 6490 is a perfect fit for RealWears next generation headsets as it enables powerful connections and reduced latency, an advanced ISP and advanced Edge-AI computing to deliver astonishing performance at lower power.

The headset will launch with certifications for ATEX Zone 1, CSA C1/D1 and IECEx, making it suitable for a variety of markets including oil and gas, mining, pharmaceuticals, and flour and textile mills.

Free Your Hands Product Introduction Tour

RealWear will be offering product demonstrations and educational sessions in many locations around the world to customers and partners.

RealWear Free Your Hands Around the World Tour 2023 Sept 5-8 SPE Offshore Europe (Signup) Aberdeen, UK Sept 13-15 Oil and Gas Expo (OGA) Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Sept 25-28 Nexus Dallas, TX, USA Oct 2-5 Adipec Abu Dhabi, UAE Oct 16-18 SPE ATCE San Antonio, TX, USA Oct 16-20 GITEX Global Dubai, UAE Oct 24-26 Augmented Enterprise Summit (AES) Houston, TX, USA Oct 31-Nov 2 IMARC Sydney, Australia Nov 7-10 Operational Excellence in Oil and Gas Houston, TX, USA Nov 13-15 The Connected Worker Chicago Chicago, USA Nov 27-28 Automa O&G Vosendorf, Austria Dec 4-6 The Connected Worker Europe Munich, Germany

RealWear has received strong industry support from Qualcomm, Zoom, TeamViewer, Ericsson, AMA, HINDSITE, HUVR, Intoware, NSW, OverIT, Pexip, PTC, Sygration, and others. RealWear Navigator Z1 is available for pre-order through authorized RealWear resellers, with shipment starting in November in Europe, Middle East, Africa, Asia Pacific including Japan, with North America following in February 2024.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230829172583/en/

Media Contact:

Aaron Cohen

[email protected]

Source: RealWear, Inc.
INDIANAPOLIS--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Resultant, a leading consulting firm specializing in technology, data analytics and digital transformation, today announced that it has received the 2023 Google Cloud Public Sector Partner of the Year  US SLG Award.

Resultant was recognized for the companys achievements in the Google Cloud ecosystem, helping joint clients in local, state, and federal government agencies unlock opportunities with data and analytics utilizing artificial intelligence and machine learning; and modernizing legacy infrastructure and applications.

The opportunities for government agencies to solve complex challenges and improve the lives of citizens using cloud technologies and advanced data analytics has never been greater, said Paul Bahl, Resultant director of Google Cloud Sales. It's an honor to be recognized for the advances were helping public sector clients make using the Google Cloud ecosystem.

In partnership with Google, Resultant is assisting the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) in taking steps to digitize various documents and records. The IRS receives hundreds of millions of pieces of mail annually, with the contents of each receipted envelope containing pieces of paper in the form of correspondence and/or tax returns either with or without remittance. To manage this capacity and improve service to taxpayers, the IRS has engaged Resultant to scan and ingest a backlog of documents using optical character recognition (OCR). The Submission Processing Modernization project will support improvements to taxpayer service, enhance the fairness of compliance efforts, address federal guidelines and reduce teleworking challenges.

Further, Resultant and Google Cloud are also advancing health outcomes through the modernization of data systems at public health agencies. The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) has engaged Resultant to centralize, manage, and integrate data sources in an automated way so that they can more rapidly detect and respond to public health threats like disease outbreaks.

Google Clouds partner awards recognize the significant impact and customer success that our partners have driven over the past year, said Kevin Ichhpurani, Corporate Vice President, Global Ecosystem and Channels at Google Cloud. We're delighted to recognize Resultant as a 2023 Google Cloud Partner Award winner, and look forward to a continued strong partnership in support of our mutual customers.

Resultant team members hold more than 95 Google Cloud certifications and credentials including Cloud Engineers, Cloud DevOps Engineers, Cloud Data Engineers, Machine Learning Engineers, Cloud Database Engineers, Cloud Developers, Cloud Architects, Google Workspace Administrators, Certified Educators and more.

About Resultant

Founded in 2008, Resultant is a technology, data analytics, and digital transformation firm. Resultant works in both the public and private sectors to help clients fulfill their missions, meet their goals, and solve their toughest challenges. Headquartered in Indianapolis with nearly 500 employees nationwide, the firm serves clients nationally with offices in Indianapolis, Fort Wayne and Odon, Ind.; Springfield, Ill.; Dallas, Texas; Columbus, Ohio; Lansing, Mich.; Denver, Colo. and Atlanta, Ga. For more information, visit www.resultant.com.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230829361877/en/

Kate Jaramillo

[email protected]

Source: Resultant
Renowned Fine Dining Steak House Debuts Fifth Location in New York

ALBANY, N.Y.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Ruths Chris Steak House, famous for its unmatched dining experience and steaks served on 500-degree sizzling plates, today announced its newest location is open for business in Albany, New York at 1 Metro Park Road.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230829360259/en/

Ruths Chris Steak House announced its newest location in Albany, which is now open for business. It is located at 1 Metro Park Road and brings an unmatched dining experience to the area with its 8,572 square-foot location. (Photo: Business Wire)

The Albany Ruths Chris restaurant brings an extraordinary dining experience unlike anything else in New Yorks capital city with its 8,572 square-foot location featuring the finest steaks, the best service and a level of hospitality that has made Ruths Chris one of the most revered names in steak since Ruth Fertel opened the first restaurant in 1965. The new space features one main dining room, a luxurious bar and bar-lounge, patio with ample seating, as well as two private dining rooms that can accommodate celebrating a special milestone, entertaining clients, or simply enjoying a night out with friends and family. The space is elegantly appointed and thoughtfully designed to provide a comfortably elegant, warm, and welcoming dining experience for every guest.

Weve had the absolute pleasure of serving the community of New York for many years, and are fortunate to make our one-of-a-kind meals available to even more guests in the area, said William Nicholson, general manager for the Albany Ruths Chris. Ruths Chris delivers the ultimate, most hospitable dining experiences in Albany with perfect steaks, warm hospitality and good times that never stop rolling. We look forward to welcoming guests into our restaurant and showcasing the highest quality food, beverages, and service in a warm and inviting atmosphere.

With more than 150 restaurants around the globe, Ruths Chris has been in business since 1965. As part of the pre-opening celebration for its newest restaurant, Ruths Chris hosted a special VIP dinner with community leaders, business owners and Ruths Chris executives where 100% of the proceeds from the evening were donated to Regional Food Bank of Northeastern New York.

The Albany location is our fifth in the state of New York, representing an exciting expansion in the region that further entrenches us in this areas fine dining scene, said Cheryl Henry, President of Ruths Chris Steak House. Were thrilled to continue to serve this community and look forward to more expansion opportunities in the future.

At Ruth's Chris, the last bite is just as good as the first. The companys perfected broiling method and seasoning techniques ensure each cut of USDA Prime beef arrives cooked to perfection and sizzling on a 500-degree plate  just the way Ruths Chris founder Ruth Fertel liked it. Representing the highest-quality beef, these cuts are well marbled and hand-selected for thickness and tenderness. Ruth only served her guests the finest, and thats why Ruths Chris serves custom-aged USDA Prime beef.

While Ruths Chris USDA Prime steaks and their signature sizzle may have put the restaurant on the map, guests can also enjoy fresh seafood, scratch-made side dishes and desserts, craft cocktails and choice wines, all served with the sort of hospitality that would make its namesake proud.

Ruths Chris Albany also offers its unbeatable Happy Hour, which includes mouthwatering food and full-size appetizers, hand-crafted cocktails and wine starting at only $9 from 4:00p.m.  6:00p.m. every Sunday through Friday.

For more information and hours of operation, or to make a reservation, please visit https://ruthschris.com/albany or call (518) 444-3690.

About Ruths Chris Steak House

Ruth's Chris Steak House was founded by Ruth Fertel 58 years ago in New Orleans, Louisiana. Ruth had a recipe for everything  from how to prepare her signature sizzling steaks to how to treat her guests. This timeless formula is a testament to how one neighborhood eatery has become the largest collection of upscale steak houses in the world, with more than 150 restaurant locations around the globe. Ruth's Chris remains true to its heritage, helping guests make their best memories on 500-degree sizzling plates.

Ruth's Chris Steak House. This is how its done.

For more information, visit RuthsChris.com, or find us on Facebook and Instagram.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230829360259/en/

Media:

[email protected]

Source: Ruths Chris Steak House
STANHOPE, N.J.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Funds advised by SK Capital Partners, LP (SK Capital), a private investment firm focused on the specialty materials, ingredients, and life sciences sectors, have acquired Isolatek International (Isolatek or the Company). Isolatek is a market leading manufacturer and supplier of passive fireproofing technologies. The terms of the deal were not disclosed.

Headquartered in Stanhope, New Jersey and with more than 100 years of history, Isolatek is recognized as a worldwide leader in the production and distribution of proprietary passive fireproofing materials for commercial, industrial, petrochemical, and tunnel applications. Isolateks branded portfolio of fireproofing and acoustical and insulation products are known for their exceptional thermal performance, superior durability, and ease of application. The Companys portfolio consists of products certified by the relevant regulatory standards (i.e. UL, EN, BS) which are comprised of both cementitious and intumescent offerings, as well as complementary substrates to meet customer needs and preferences for structural projects. In addition to its technologies, Isolatek offers on-site support and technical service to ensure installations meet the required specifications worldwide.

Isolatek has built a differentiated business with a leading and broad portfolio of UL, EN, and BS-tested products providing significant value to customers. We are excited to be partnering with Isolateks current leadership team to build on the Companys solid reputation in the market and drive the next phase of growth. As experienced investors in the coatings and specialty materials sectors, SK Capital can leverage its existing portfolio and network to create additional expansion opportunities for Isolatek, said Jon Borell, a Managing Director of SK Capital.

We are excited to partner with SK Capital and look forward to this exciting new chapter for the Company, said Scott Schwartz, CEO of Isolatek. SK Capital is the ideal partner for Isolatek given its track record in the specialty materials market and differentiated industry insight. We plan to continue to invest in the business and deliver innovative solutions to protect people through our material technologies.

Goodwin Procter LLP acted as legal counsel to SK Capital. Keating Muething & Klekamp PLL acted as legal counsel to Isolatek. Debt financing was provided by Bank of America.

About SK Capital:

SK Capital is a private investment firm with a disciplined focus on the specialty materials, ingredients, and life sciences sectors. The Firm seeks to build resilient, sustainable, and growing businesses that create substantial long-term economic value. SK Capital aims to utilize its industry, operating, and investment experience to identify opportunities to transform businesses into higher performing organizations with improved strategic positioning, growth, and profitability, as well as lower operating risk. SK Capitals portfolio of businesses generates revenues of approximately $17 billion annually, employs more than 25,000 people globally, and operates more than 200 plants in over 30 countries. The Firm currently has approximately $7.8 billion in assets under management. For more information, please visit www.skcapitalpartners.com.

About Isolatek International:

Isolatek International is a formulator, manufacturer, and distributor of proprietary passive fire resistance materials used for protecting commercial, industrial, petrochemical, and tunnel projects. The Company offers an extensive portfolio of technologies including cementitious and intumescent-based products in addition to other substrates. Customers rely on Isolatek to provide these products to ensure the safety and integrity of projects. Isolatek offers technical and on-site services to support its customers. The Companys mission is to serve the world by advancing life-saving passive fire protection and construction technologies to protect people and the places where they work, play, and live. Headquartered in Stanhope, New Jersey, Isolatek operates primarily from five production facilities across the United States.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230829850658/en/

Jeremy Milner

BackBay Communications

401-862-9422

[email protected]

Source: SK Capital Partners, LP
TORONTO--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Softchoice, a leading North American software-focused IT solutions provider, has won the 2023 Google Cloud Sales Partner of the Year  Canada award. Announced at Google Cloud Next in San Francisco earlier today, this award recognizes Softchoice's success in selling Google Cloud products and solutions while building deep customer relationships.

Google Clouds partner awards recognize the significant impact and customer success that our partners have driven over the past year," said Kevin Ichhpurani, Corporate Vice President, Global Ecosystem and Channels at Google Cloud. "We're delighted to recognize Softchoice as a 2023 Google Cloud Partner Award winner, and look forward to a continued strong partnership in support of our mutual customers.

A longstanding Google Cloud partner, Softchoice has previously earned a range of Google Cloud awards and certifications. Earlier this year, it achieved the Application Development  Services Partner Specialization in Google Cloud Partner Advantage, recognizing its technical proficiency in building and managing applications. In 2021, it won the Google Cloud Public Sector Partner of the Year award for Canada.

"Winning the 2023 Google Cloud Sales Partner of the Year award for Canada is a testament to our team's commitment to Google Cloud and dedication to customer success. With organizations looking to adopt breakthrough technologies like generative AI, the compute power and flexibility of Google Cloud's products and solutions are more important than ever before. We are delighted to bring them to life for customers across North America through our sales expertise and our deep capabilities in application and data services," said Chris Woodin, VP, Solutions and Alliances at Softchoice.

Softchoices comprehensive Google Cloud capabilities cover every step of the digital transformation journey from assessment and planning to implementation and management.

Learn more about Softchoice's Google Cloud solutions here.

About Softchoice

Softchoice (TSX: SFTC) is a software-focused IT solutions provider that equips organizations to be agile and innovative, and for their people to be engaged, connected and creative at work. That means moving them to the cloud, helping them build the workplace of tomorrow, and enabling them to make smarter decisions about their technology portfolio. For more information, please visit www.softchoice.com.

Forward-looking statements

This news release may contain forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable securities laws, which reflects Softchoices current expectations regarding future events. Forward-looking information is based on a number of assumptions and is subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond the companys control. Actual results could differ materially from those projected herein. Unless otherwise noted or the context otherwise indicates, the forward-looking information contained in this news release is provided as of the date of this news release and Softchoice does not undertake any obligation to update such forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as expressly required under applicable securities laws.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230829314429/en/

Media

Adarsh Nalam

Senior Manager, Communications

[email protected]

Source: Softchoice
Hardcore Carnivore Sausage Gets Smoky Assist from Standard Meat Company

FORT WORTH, Texas--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- When Hardcore Carnivore, a Texas company that produces cult-favorite meat seasonings and rubs, was offered the chance to produce an exclusive line of real hardwood smoked sausages for Texas retailer H-E-B, they called on the meat science experts at Fort Worth-based Standard Meat Company to create a product that truly honors Texas barbecue heritage.

Jess Pryles, the hardcore carnivore who developed the sausage recipes, is a renowned live-fire cook, author, and self-proclaimed total meat nerd. She created Hardcore Carnivore in 2015 with the launch of her now-iconic Black spice seasoning blend. The Hardcore Carnivore seasoning line now includes a variety of rubs, including Red for chicken and pork, and Amplify, a savory boosting powder.

When Pryles learned of the opportunity to create a Hardcore Carnivore sausage line exclusively for H-E-B, she leapt at the chance. Though born and raised in Melbourne, Australia, Pryles now calls Austin, Texas home, and she was eager to celebrate Texas meat heritage through perfectly seasoned sausages.

Creating these sausages was the next logical step for the Hardcore Carnivore brand, Pryles said. "All the flavors are designed to recognize and honor different aspects of Texas heritage, which is important for us at Hardcore Carnivore, and also important for H-E-B, a company with such a strong connection to their own Texas heritage."

One of the most important Texas traditions that Pryles  a live-fire expert  was determined to honor was the use of real hardwood smoke on her sausages, not bottled smoke flavor. For a mass-produced product, that dedication presented a technical challenge.

Luckily, Pryles knew where to go to find a production team that could honor her live-fire roots with innovative meat science solutions: Fort Worth's own Standard Meat Company.

"I had a relationship with Ashli [Rosenthal Blumenfeld, Standard Meat Company co-president] as fellow meat industry businesswomen," Pryles explains. "So when this project came about, I knew I had the right people to help me bring it to life."

"Helping Jess achieve her culinary vision for these heritage-inspired sausages was a dream project for us," Blumenfeld agrees. "At Standard Meat, we understand tradition. My great-grandfather Ben Rosenthal started this company in 1935, and we're still family-owned and operated. We honor our heritage today the same way he did back then  by seeking out creative, innovative solutions for each customer's unique needs."

"It was the Standard Meat willingness to support innovation and really work with us that helped get the project off the ground," Pryles continues. "When I said that we need to use real hardwood smoke, they figured out a way to do that.

"Now, after two years of relentless pursuit to create the perfect smoked sausages, I am so excited to finally share our new product, available exclusively at H-E-B stores across Texas!"

The new brand of Hardcore Carnivore premium sausages are certified GO TEXAN by the Texas Department of Agriculture, and feature gluten free ingredients, natural casings, and of course, a real hardwood smoked finish.

The sausages are available in four perfectly seasoned varieties: TEX MEX, BEEF (with Beef Brisket), JALAPENO CHEDDAR, and PRIME RIB FLAVOR (with Beef Prime Rib).

"To be able to bring my first protein products to market with a family that has such incredible involvement in the history of Texas meat means so much to me," Pryles concludes. "Imagine walking into the Fort Worth Stockyards  a legendary location  and getting to work with an innovative meat company that is headquartered at that very place. It doesn't get more Texan than working with the Rosenthal family right in the home of Texas beef."

The Hardcore Carnivore line of proudly made-in-Texas sausages debuted in late July and is now available exclusively at H-E-B stores throughout Texas.

ABOUT HARDCORE CARNIVORE

Jess Pryles is the creator of Hardcore Carnivore. She is a live-fire cook, author, and total meat nerd. Pryles developed Hardcore Carnivore during a recipe experiment session that gave birth to her first seasoning  Black  which soon attracted a following of loyal fans. Since then, Hardcore Carnivore has introduced other rubs into the family, following a philosophy that seasoning should always enhance the meat and never overpower it. Today, the Hardcore Carnivore brand has grown beyond seasonings and rubs to include apparel, a cookbook, unique kitchen tools and products that are sure to appeal to any serious meat fan. For more information, visit www.hardcorecarnivore.com.

ABOUT STANDARD MEAT

Standard Meat Company is a multi-generational protein packaging and portioning company headquartered in Fort Worth, Texas. Founded in 1935, the innovative business serves a variety of foodservice needs from their four north Texas plants. Pioneers in steak cutting, Standard Meat Company is a recognized expert in meat science, food safety and quality assurance, culinary trends, purchasing, and packaging. For more information, visit www.standardmeat.com.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230829077717/en/

Lauren Kwedar Cockerell [email protected] 817-405-9878

Source: Standard Meat Company
Japanese pharma giant R&D facility enhanced by Titian Software

LONDON--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Titian Software and ITOCHU Techno-Solutions announce the deployment of Titians Mosaic Sample Management Software to support Kyowa Kirins Central Sample Bank at their R&D site in Shizuoka, Japan.

Mosaic offers three key benefits to Kyowa Kirin, which has made the strategic infrastructure purchase of the software:

a single tool that manages both the companys small molecule library and its biologics inventory

integration interfaces that can bring a wide range of lab automation into managed workflows

future-proofing  Mosaic is a comprehensive product that can be easily adapted and supported to meet changes in life science workflows and needs. This also results in a lower lifecycle cost than regularly updating the in-house solution it replaces.

Kyowa Kirin currently uses Mosaic to integrate multiple types of liquid handlers into a managed workflow for efficient sample processing. Samples are securely tracked in and out of manual freezers. Mosaic also provides Kyowa Kirins researchers with inventory search and sample requesting tools backed up with a comprehensive audit trail. This is the second major implementation of Mosaic software for a Japanese pharmaceutical company and the first in partnership with ITOCHU Techno-Solutions.

In Japan, Titian Software works with ITOCHU Techno-Solutions, a forward-thinking company that is an excellent local partner. Together, the companies provide a best-of-breed product used by 15 of the top 20 global biopharmaceutical companies, backed up by rapid implementation and excellent support.

Nick Spurrett, CEO of Titian Software, said: Our collaborative working with ITOCHU Techno-Solutions and Kyowa Kirin has resulted in a rapidly deployed system that is configured for customer needs, which also offers freedom of choice of hardware, good automation integration, ongoing product support and the option of SaaS deployment.

Our partnership with Titian strengthens the outstanding support both companies are known for, said Yusuke Tanabe, general manager at the Life Science division of ITOCHU Techno-Solutions. Both companies share a vision of enabling seamless cross-platform and inter-department workflows and collaboration.

Editors Notes

About Kyowa Kirin

Kyowa Kirin strives to create and deliver novel medicines with life-changing value. As a Japan-based Global Specialty Pharmaceutical Company with a more than 70-year heritage, we apply cutting-edge science, including expertise in antibody research and engineering, to address the needs of patients and society across multiple therapeutic areas, including Nephrology, Oncology, Immunology/Allergy, and Neurology. Across our four regions  Japan, Asia Pacific, North America, and EMEA/International  we focus on our purpose, to make people smile, and are united by our shared values of commitment to life, teamwork/Wa, innovation, and integrity. You can learn more about the business of Kyowa Kirin at: https://www.kyowakirin.com/.

About Titian Software

Titian Software is the industry leader in providing sample management software for life science applications. Trusted by pharma, biotech, and CRO institutions worldwide, Titian offers software products and consultancy services that improve the supply of samples - small molecules, reagents, DNA, proteins, antibodies, cell lines, blood, serum, tissues - to vital research processes. Titians sample management software, Mosaic, improves throughput, response times, cost efficiencies, error rates, and sample conservation, laying the foundation for discovery and laboratory optimization initiatives.

Learn more about Titian Software at:

https://www.titian.co.uk/

Titian Mosaic SampleBank product page in Japanese:

https://www.titian.co.uk/ja/mosaic-samplebank

About ITOCHU Techno-Solutions

ITOCHU Techno-Solutions Corporation is a comprehensive IT services company that partners with its customers. From consulting to design, development and construction, operational and maintenance support, ITOCHU Techno-Solutions combines sophisticated IT solutions and cloud services to find solutions to customer issues. Providing optimum services in all fields, including communication, broadcasting, manufacturing, finance, logistics and retail, public services, life sciences, science, and engineering.

Learn more about ITOCHU Techno-Solutions at:

https://www.ctc-g.co.jp/en/

ITOCHU Techno-Solutions Mosaic landing page:

http://ls.ctc-g.co.jp/products/titian/mosaic.html

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230829984507/en/

Product Enquiries

Titian Software Ltd.

t: +44 (0) 20 7367 68 69

Twitter: @TitianSoftware

e: [email protected]

w: www.titian.co.uk

Titian Software US, Inc.

t: +1 (508) 366-2234

e: [email protected]

Media enquiries

Ruth Petersen

t: +1 (858) 220-1679

e: [email protected]

Source: Titian Software
CALGARY, Alberta--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Over 200 unionized ADT Security by Telus workers, who are members of the United Steelworkers union (USW) Local 1944, are demanding a fair first contract by holding two public awareness actions in Calgary.

The USWs bat light projected a clear message last Sunday and Monday night, displaying Fair wages at ADT now onto the Telus Spark Science Centre building and the Scotiabank Saddledome.

ADT by Telus continues to experience success and win awards for customer service delivered by our members, yet when it comes to delivering fair wages, Telus prefers to pay its CEO and shareholders first instead of its hard-working and award-winning employees, said Donna Hokiro, USW Local 1944 president.

I am not convinced that Telus wants to agree to a first contract that reflects the value of the work our members do. Telus continues to present lowball offers to weaken the support of our members and force them to accept low wages  wages that do little to help them in these tough economic times. Our members are holding the line for better and that is why we are taking action across Calgary this week to get fair wages, said Hokiro.

The USW has negotiated and moved on many non-monetary items and had made some progress on several items such as seniority and company service, the At Home Agent program and job notifications. There are many other monetary items, including wages, that the union and the employer remain significantly apart on.

I strongly believe that we can secure a fair contract with good wages  but its really up to Telus and ADT to get back to the table to negotiate a decent first contract. I know Telus can do better and it can certainly afford to give its ADT Security workers better job security and wage increases, said Hokiro.

The two parties started bargaining meetings in April 2022, following the Alberta Labour Relations Boards certification of the workers vote to join the USW on January 4, 2022. The parties have jointly filed for mediation and will be meeting with the appointed mediator on August 29.

The USW represents 225,000 members in nearly every economic sector across Canada, including 6,800 members at Telus, and is the largest private-sector union in North America, with 850,000 members in Canada, the United States and the Caribbean.

Each year, thousands of workers choose to join the USW because of our strong track record in creating healthier, safer and more respectful workplaces and negotiating better working conditions and fairer compensation  including good wages, benefits and pensions.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230828643148/en/

For more information:

Brett Barden, USW Communications, 604-445-6956, [email protected]

Donna Hokiro, USW Local 1944 President, 780-499-9994 [email protected]

Source: United Steelworkers
Vaultree's pioneering FFDUE now integrates seamlessly with Google Cloud SQL, delivering next-gen data protection and innovation for enterprise businesses.

SAN FRANCISCO--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- As enterprises continue to embrace cloud solutions, the challenges surrounding data security have come to the forefront. Vaultree, a cybersecurity industry leader in advanced data in-use encryption, is proud to announce its collaboration with Google Cloud SQL and that they have successfully achieved Google Cloud Ready - Cloud SQL designation. With the integration of Vaultree's Fully Functional Data In Use Encryption (FFDUE) into Google Cloud SQL, businesses can now enjoy an unparalleled level of data security and innovation in the cloud.

Balancing security and data utility in the cloud has often been a challenge. Together with Google, we bridge this divide, letting businesses harness the full potential of their data in a secure environment, said Ryan Lasmaili, Vaultrees CEO. This partnership brings our customers the reliability, flexibility and freedom to innovate in an ever-changing industry, while driving security and profitability, and accelerating digital transformation.

Google Cloud Ready is a validation program that brings customers confidence in partner integrations including Cloud SQL (for both MySQL and PostgreSQL engines) and AlloyDB. Receiving these designations means that Vaultree has closely collaborated with Google Cloud engineers to add support and fine-tune existing functionality for the most optimal customer outcomes.

The Google Cloud Ready - Cloud SQL designation recognizes partner solutions that have met a core set of requirements to ensure the best possible integration between the partner product and Cloud SQL, said Ritika Suri, Director of Technology Partnerships at Google Cloud. With Vaultree, customers can save time on evaluating new tools, and focus on building solutions using partner products that have been proven through a rigorous validation process to work optimally with Cloud SQL.

Innovating Data Security for the Cloud:

Cloud platforms, like Google Cloud SQL, handle vast quantities of sensitive enterprise business data daily. Traditional encryption techniques, while secure, often impede data functionality. Vaultrees FFDUE is a game-changer, enabling encrypted data to remain fully operational. It ensures encrypted data remains active, facilitating full search and computations and AI-enhanced analytics and complex queries at scale without compromising security.

Key Advantages with Vaultree and Google Cloud SQL:

Complete Data Security: With Vaultrees encryption, data stored in Google Cloud SQL remains continuously protected, preserving its confidentiality and integrity.

With Vaultrees encryption, data stored in Google Cloud SQL remains continuously protected, preserving its confidentiality and integrity. Enhanced Data Usability: Enterprise businesses no longer need to choose between security and functionality. With FFDUE, data remains encrypted but agile, fostering growth and AI-driven innovations.

Enterprise businesses no longer need to choose between security and functionality. With FFDUE, data remains encrypted but agile, fostering growth and AI-driven innovations. Global Compliance: The combined power of Vaultree and Google Cloud SQL empowers organizations to meet cross border data protection standards, fostering greater trust among partners and clients.

The combined power of Vaultree and Google Cloud SQL empowers organizations to meet cross border data protection standards, fostering greater trust among partners and clients. Effortless Integration: Implementing Vaultrees FFDUE with Google Cloud SQL is seamless, ensuring businesses can elevate their data security without disruption.

The integration is available immediately for Vaultree and Google Cloud customers today. Start today: https://www.vaultree.com/partners/google-cloud-sql/

About Vaultree:

Vaultree, a leader in cybersecurity, has redefined sensitive data protection and access with our Fully Functional Data-In-Use Encryption (FFDUE). Our solution enables enterprises to securely process, search, and compute structured and unstructured encrypted data, driving AI and ML applications. Our technology resolves traditional encryption hurdles and also provides an enterprise blend of performance, speed, and scalabilitymaking it an ideal match for data-intensive sectors. Moreover, our technology guarantees persistent encryption, even during a data leak. Under specific GDPR provisions, companies are exempt from disclosing a breach if the data was encrypted using Vaultreea testament to the trustworthiness of our system. With a seamless integration process that doesn't demand any major platform or technology changes, Vaultree is trusted by Google and numerous other data-focused organizations worldwide to safeguard their sensitive information. Our commitment is to always keep your data encrypted, accessible, and secure, while driving innovation and mitigating cybersecurity risks. Vaultree is a privately held company based in Ireland and the U.S. For more information, please visit www.vaultree.com.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230829368219/en/

Reesha Dedhia, Vaultree

[email protected]

Source: Vaultree
The industry's most expansive catalog ensures every employee can redeem for an experience that makes them feel seen and recognized

FRAMINGHAM, Mass. & DUBLIN--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Workhuman, the company revolutionizing how employees celebrate, connect with, and appreciate each other in the workplace, has added In-Store Booking functionality to its world class Store. Employees now have access to hundreds of thousands of additional activity, travel, and accommodation options as part of the industrys most expansive catalog of experiences, all bookable with points on its platform.

Workhumans Experiences offering provides an awesome new element to their already impressive Store, as it enables employees to easily book travel, adventures, tours, and activities using their recognition rewards through Michelins WeCare program. By using points they earned here through their contributions to the organization, our employees are able to redeem their points on engaging experiences for themselves, family or friends, said Leslie Schall, Director of Employee Engagement, Experience, and Purpose at Michelin. Right after Experiences launched, I used it to book a Harley electronic trike motorcycle tour during an upcoming family vacation in Prague. Now my entire family has this amazing memory were going to cherish forever, and it was because of recognition from my colleagues. Experiences is going to help our employees turn work achievements into these beautiful, exciting moments, and were very excited about the impact of this connection and the stories well hear.

Workhumans Store takes the same human-first approach as its Social Recognition solution. The company understands that the reward redemption experience is critical for the success of any recognition program as it reinforces the original recognition moment and amplifies the sense of engagement and goodwill that the employee feels toward their company. Workhuman has made significant investments over the years to launch the broadest offering of Travel and Experiences with gift card partners like Virgin Experiences, Global Experiences, Royal Caribbean, Hotels.com, and many more. The addition of In-Store Booking functionality takes this to the next level, ensuring every employee is able to redeem for an experience that feels exciting to them, and that makes them feel seen and recognized, no matter point levels.

Workhuman has always kept our ears close to the ground and driven our Store strategy based on the pulse of the marketplace. We know that people derive significant enjoyment from experiences and over the years we have evolved in the ways we bring this category to our platform, said Sarah Whitman, Workhuman SVP, E-commerce. Our data has shown that peoples desire to travel and create memories has been reinvigorated as weve emerged from the global pandemic. Our expanded Experiences offering creates endless new opportunities for employees to travel and experience new things, driving personal growth and even greater and lasting connections to their colleagues that helped make those experiences and memories possible.

Workhuman has built a truly innovative and deep team dedicated to sourcing merchandise and gift cards across the globe in more than 65 categories. Globally, the company maintains a catalogue of roughly 400,000 merchandise items across more than 60 countries and offers thousands of gift cards across more than 130 countries, with choices that include access to hundreds of thousands of merchandise brands, charities, and travel experience options. Workhuman has built its Store experience from the ground up and has scaled over the years to support orders placed every few seconds by its approx. 7M employees across the globe.

Through the companys Store, employees are able to book their activity, hotel, car rental and, when available, flights, all in the same order, keeping their entire travel itinerary together and avoiding the hassle of tracking multiple confirmation emails from separate travel partners. From walking tours to national park passes to private yacht rentals, Workhumans full Experiences offering will cater to users globally and at virtually every point and desired activity level.

In-Store Booking is now available for more than 2 million users across 10 countries, including the US, India, Mexico, and UK. In addition to English, the booking experience and customer service support is available in French, Latin American Spanish, European Spanish, Brazilian Portuguese and Japanese. We will continue to roll out to additional customers and markets with enhanced capabilities throughout the year. For more information about Workhumans Store, please visit: www.workhuman.com/reward/store.

To learn more about how Workhumans employee recognition solution can help reduce turnover, improve engagement and productivity, and elevate DE&I efforts, please visit: www.workhuman.com/solutions/social-recognition/.

About Workhuman:

Workhuman is helping companies meet todays biggest human capital challenges - including unprecedented turnover, employee engagement, hybrid work environments, and DEI - through the Workhuman Cloud, a secure SaaS platform that provides the industrys best-in-class Social Recognition solution. As the leading global provider of technology solutions, analytics, expertise, and services helping organizations of all sizes build and foster workplace cultures powered by employee recognition and crowdsourced feedback, Workhuman is revolutionizing the way employees celebrate, connect with, and appreciate each other in the workplace. Combined with unmatched data through iQ, we empower HR and business leaders with proactive insight to understand issues as they develop and tools to help them make the right decisions to align business objectives and culture to deliver immediate impact. And, with world-class award redemption from our proprietary global e-commerce network, Workhuman is committed to building more connected human-centered workplaces that recognize the value and potential of each and every employee.

For more than 20 years, Workhuman has been pioneering the human workplace by disrupting legacy and obsolete HR approaches to improve the employee experience at work, with solutions that engage with approx. seven million customer employees in 30+ languages, in 180 countries, generating 100 million instances of human connection. With dual headquarters in Dublin, Ireland and Framingham, Massachusetts, deploys solutions and services at scale and is committed to helping companies improve returns on their most important investment their people. For more information, please visit www.workhuman.com

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230829539399/en/

Jenna West, [email protected]

Source: Workhuman
Today, 3M (NYSE: MMM) announced that it has reached an agreement with the court-appointed negotiating plaintiffs' counsel to resolve the Combat Arms Earplug litigation against Aearo Technologies (Aearo) and 3M. Under the agreement, 3M will contribute a total amount of $6.0 billion between 2023 and 2029, which is structured under the agreement to include $5.0 billion in cash and $1.0 billion in 3M common stock.

This agreement, reached through the mediation process that 3M has previously disclosed, is structured to promote participation by claimants and is intended to resolve all claims associated with the Combat Arms Earplug products. The agreement includes all claims in the multi-district litigation in Florida and in the coordinated state court action in Minnesota , as well as potential future claims. The Florida and Minnesota courts are entering orders to support implementation of the agreement.

This agreement is not an admission of liability. The products at issue in this litigation are safe and effective when used properly. 3M is prepared to continue to defend itself in the litigation if certain agreed terms of the settlement agreement are not fulfilled.

Financial Considerations

As a result of the agreement, the company will record a pre-tax charge of approximately $4.2 billion in the third quarter of 2023, representing the $5.3 billion pre-tax present value of contributions under the agreement net of 3M's existing accrual of approximately $1.1 billion related to this matter. This charge will be reflected as an adjustment in arriving at 3M's results, adjusted for special items. Additional details of the agreement, including the anticipated payment schedules provided that certain conditions are met, will be included in 3M's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Aearo and 3M are actively engaged in insurance recovery activities to offset a portion of the settlement payments, and Aearo initiated insurance recovery litigation against its carriers in June related to the litigation.

The strength and stability of 3M's business model and strong free cash flow capability, together with proven capital markets access, provide financial flexibility to deploy capital to meet its cash flow needs under this agreement and other commitments and obligations.

Investor Teleconference

3M will conduct an investor teleconference at 8 a.m. CT today, which can be accessed via the following:

Live webcast at http://investors.3M.com .

. Live telephone: Call 800-762-2596 within the U.S. or +1 212-231-2916 outside the U.S. Please join the call at least 10 minutes before the start time.



This event will be webcast live and a replay will be available on 3M's Investor Relations website at http://investors.3M.com.
Global aviation training leader, CAE (NYSE: CAE), today announced at the Asia Pacific Airline Training Symposium (APATS) that it has secured a 10-year pilot training agreement with Batik Air. CAE will deploy and operate an advanced B737 MAX full-flight simulator at Batik Air's facility in Kuala Lumpur , ensuring a world-class training experience for the airline's pilots.

In addition, Batik Air will adopt the use of CAE Rise, CAE's data-driven training system which leverages advanced analytics to deliver more effective training and enhance operational safety.

"We are proud to appoint CAE as our training partner and we are confident that this partnership with CAE will further enhance our pilot training and standards," said Group Strategy Director of Batik Air and Lion Air Group, Datuk Chandran Rama Muthy. "The CAE B737 MAX simulator will enable our pilots to have real-time handling aircraft experience during the training, which in turn will ensure that our pilots possess the skills and assurance to navigate the skies with confidence."

"We are thrilled to enter into this 10-year pilot training agreement with Batik Air," said Michel Azar-Hmouda, CAE's Vice President, Commercial Aviation Training. "With CAE Rise, Batik Air pilots will benefit from an industry-leading solution that will elevate their training experience in the simulator and sharpen their skills in the flight deck."

This milestone agreement solidifies the long-term relationship between CAE and Batik Air, underscoring their unwavering commitment to fostering the development of highly skilled pilots. In its recently released 2023 Aviation Talent Forecast, CAE projected a substantial need for aviation professionals in various sectors. Airlines are projected to require 252,000 pilots, 328,000 maintenance technicians, and 599,000 cabin crew members over the next decade.
Haemonetics Corporation (NYSE: HAE), a global medical technology company focused on delivering innovative medical solutions to drive better patient outcomes, has announced that for the first time, patients have been treated with the company`s VASCADE MVP Venous Vascular Closure system in Germany . This marks the first use of the VASCADE system portfolio, widely used in U.S. hospitals, in a European country.

The VASCADE system is designed for "small-bore" femoral arterial and venous closure, generally used in interventional cardiology and peripheral vascular procedures. The VASCADE MVP system is designed for "mid-bore" multi-access femoral venous closure, generally used in electrophysiology procedures. Both closure devices are CE marked under the EU-MDR (European Medical Device Regulations) for use in patients who have undergone catheter-based procedures with single or multiple access sites in one or both limbs and include proprietary collapsible disc technology and a resorbable collagen patch to achieve hemostasis. The VASCADE and VASCADE MVP systems are designed to save time for hospital staff, while helping patients reach hemostasis faster with fewer complications on average compared to manual compression.

"First and foremost, the VASCADE MVP system helps promote patient wellbeing. There is a very short post-procedural bedrest, which can reduce back pain and the need for urinary catheters and create the possibility for same-day discharge. From a handling perspective, the VASCADE MVP device is logical to operate and has smooth control. During the product evaluation, we achieved hemostasis in the EP lab without the need of any further compressive bandages," said Dr. Bogdan Muntean , Senior Physician of Cardiology and Medical Director of Electrophysiology at The Jewish Hospital in Berlin .

Haemonetics is planning further expansion for the VASCADE system portfolio in other markets outside the U.S. Following the German launch, the VASCADE systems have now been released for use in Italy . Haemonetics recently announced the distribution of the VASCADE MVP system in Japan via an exclusive agreement with Japan Lifeline Co. Ltd. The product is expected to launch in Japan later this year.
Teledyne FLIR Defense, part of Teledyne Technologies Incorporated (NYSE: TDY), has signed a contract with Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace, Norway, valued at roughly $31 million to provide its Cerberus XL mobile counter-unmanned aerial system (UAS) as part of a total C-UAS solution for Ukraine. The agreement includes delivery of the surveillance platforms as well as software, spares, support and training.

Kongsberg recently signed an agreement with the International Fund for Ukraine (IFU) to deliver counter-drone systems that will be donated to the war-torn nation. The IFU was established by the UK and international partners to identify and procure critical capabilities and deliver them quickly to Ukraine. Norway and the UK are among many nations that have contributed to the fund.

Cerberus XL combines an advanced thermal/visual imaging system with highly sensitive radar sensors onto a mobile platform to rapidly locate and track UAS targets. Kongsberg then feeds information from Cerberus into its remote weapons station to disable and defeat the threat.

Teledyne FLIR is proud to partner with Kongsberg in delivering our next-generation Cerberus XL as part of a complete and robust system to protect Ukraine's warfighters, said Dr. JihFen Lei, executive vice president and general manager of Teledyne FLIR Defense. We have a long history of providing state-of-the-art imaging solutions to Kongsberg, and this important joint effort only strengthens our relationship.

In addition to the Cerberus systems, Teledyne FLIR is supporting Ukraines defense with other advanced military technology, including its Black Hornet nano-drone. The Black Hornet 3 is currently being used by Ukrainian forces through donations made by the British and Norwegian governments.
Toyota (NYSE: TM) revealed its intention to resume operations at its Japanese assembly plants starting Wednesday. The restart follows a recent production system malfunction which brought the automakers domestic output to a screeching halt.

A spokesperson from the company verified Tuesday the glitch affecting component orders lead the Japanese car manufacturer to pause operations at its 14 domestic plants. Operations were initially only suspended at 12 plants earlier in the day, while the Miyata facility in Fukuoka and the subsidiary Daihatsus facility in Kyoto continued to function normally.

Starting Wednesday morning, Toyota will resume operations at 25 production lines across twelve plants in its domestic market. The remaining two plants will also be brought back online in the afternoon of the same day, the company said.

Toyota will continue to investigate the cause of the glitch. However, the system error is not believed to be the result of a cyberattack.

Toyota's production within Japan had been bouncing back following some cuts in output caused by the chip shortages. They managed to increase output by 29% from January to June, the first uptick in two years.

The company was forced to halt operations for one day last year because one of their suppliers got hit by a cyberattack, impairing Toyota's ability to order parts. The companies eventually got things going again using a backup network.

Although the reason behind the recent malfunction remains unclear, businesses and government offices in Japan have been on high alert due to reports of nuisance phone calls.

According to the government, these calls are believed to originate from China and are connected to Japan's decision to release treated radioactive water from the damaged Fukushima nuclear power plant into the Pacific Ocean.

Shares of TM are down 0.30% in mid-day trading Tuesday.

By Michael Elkins | [email protected]
CALGARY, Alberta, Aug. 29, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Organising Committee for Canada (OCAN) for the 24th World Petroleum Congress is proud to announce its Diamond and Platinum sponsors. Taking place in Calgary, AB from September 17  21, 2023, the Congress is the worlds premier oil, gas and energy forum, providing a platform for important conversations to help define realistic, workable paths to a net zero future.



The diverse sponsors supporting the 24th Congress include global and domestic energy leaders and supporting companies. OCAN would also like to recognize its government partners including PrairiesCan, the Government of Alberta and the City of Calgary for their funding and in-kind contributions and support.

The World Petroleum Congress is supported by prominent companies from around the world, said Denis Painchaud, President & CEO, OCAN. The commitment of our sponsors significantly contributes to the success of the Congress and showcases the collaborative spirit of our global community in achieving the theme of the 24th Congress, Energy Transition: The Path to Net Zero.

This years Diamond sponsors include:

Accenture, a global professional services company that helps the worlds leading businesses, governments and other organizations build their digital core, optimize their operations, accelerate revenue growth and enhance citizen services.

Aramco, one of the world's largest integrated energy and chemicals companies, that creates value across the hydrocarbon chain, and delivers societal and economic benefits to people and communities around the globe.

China National Petroleum Corporation (CNPC), the worlds third largest oil company with assets and interests in over 30 countries and plays a leading role in China's petroleum industry.

Saudi Arabia Ministry of Energy, which oversees all activities of the energy ecosystem in Saudi Arabia through an integrated sector strategy, which is based on maximizing added value to the national economy in a sustainable and highly efficient manner.

SINOPEC Group, the largest refiner and the third largest chemical producer in the world, the largest oil and petrochemical products supplier and the second largest oil and gas producer in China, ranking the global second by the number of service stations and the 6th by revenue on Fortune's Global 500 List in 2023.



This years Platinum sponsors include:

Cenovus Energy, an integrated energy company with oil and natural gas production operations in Canada and the Asia Pacific region, and upgrading, refining and marketing operations in Canada and the United States.

Pathways Alliance, Canadas largest oil sands producers working together to address climate change. Its six companies operate about 95 per cent of Canadas oil sands production.

Repsol, a global multi-energy company that is leading the energy transition. It was the first company in the sector to commit to net-zero emissions by 2050.

Suncor, a globally competitive integrated energy company.

OCAN would also like to recognize this years Elite sponsors: bp, Bennett Jones, Canadian Association of Petroleum Producers, Chevron, Deloitte, Enbridge, ExxonMobil | Imperial, Fluor, Petrobras, PWC Canada, S&P Commodity Insights, Sonangol EP and WestJet.

The 24th World Petroleum Congress will be an opportunity to learn and discover from the industrys top executives, government leaders, policy authors, innovators and technical experts. Registration is still open  please visit www.24wpc.com for Congress updates and to register.

Media accreditation is required to attend the Congress. To submit a media accreditation request, please visit www.24wpc.com/media-accreditation-form.

About the World Petroleum Congress

Held every three years in WPC member countries, the Congress is the worlds premier oil, gas and energy forum that attracts the attendance of heads of state, energy leaders and technical experts who discuss the challenges and opportunities of managing the worlds petroleum and energy resources for the benefit of all. Under the theme of Energy Transition: The Path to Net Zero, the 24th WPC in Calgary will feature a multi-stream conference, including strategic and technical sessions, an international exhibition covering 225,000 ft2, programming for young professionals, and special events such as Canada Night, Womens Networking Breakfast, Ministerial Reception, Excellence Awards and much more.

The information presented at the Congress, as well as the discussions and debates around the progressive programme topics, will help to define realistic, workable paths forward for the global energy industry to achieve a net zero future. The Congress is expected to draw over 5,000 delegates from more than 100 countries, 50 ministerial delegations, 700 expert speakers, and 800 media. Over 15,000 unique visitors are expected to participate in the Congress, which will also feature an Exhibition comprising of over 200 international exhibitors.

About the World Petroleum Council

Established in 1933, the World Petroleum Council is a non-advocacy, non-political organization with charitable status in the U.K. and has accreditation as a Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) from the United Nations (UN). The WPC is dedicated to the promotion of sustainable management and the use of the worlds energy resources for the benefit of all. WPC conducts the triennial World Petroleum Congress, covering all aspects of the industry including management of the industry and its social, economic, and environmental impact.

For information about the 24th World Petroleum Congress, contact:

Rebecca Hurl, Brookline Public Relations

E-mail: [email protected]

www.24wpc.com

For further information about the World Petroleum Council, contact:

Sarah Beattie, Project Manager

E-mail: [email protected]

www.world-petroleum.org
WASHINGTON, D.C., Aug. 29, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Today, a bipartisan group of 30 U.S. Senators led by Sen. Dianne Feinstein, D-Calif., sent a bipartisan letter, to Senate Agriculture Committee Chairwoman Debbie Stabenow, D-Mich., and Ranking Member John Boozman, R-Ark., expressing their opposition to the so-called Ending Agricultural Trade Suppression (EATS) Act, S. 2019/H.R. 4417, and its inclusion in the 2023 Farm Bill. The controversial EATS Act, led by Sen. Roger Marshall, R-Kansas, and Rep. Ashley Hinson, R-Iowa, would harm small farmers, threaten state laws, and infringe on states' rights to establish laws and regulations within their own borders. To date, the EATS Act has dismal support in both Chambers with only 31 cosponsors in the U.S. House and 13 cosponsors in the Senate.

Two leading groups, the Organization for Competitive Markets (OCM) and Competitive Markets Action (CMA), along with members of various agricultural associations, have been lobbying Members of Congress to join the opposition against the EATS Act. In June, OCM and CMA launched a public campaign against the measure, which they deem an assault on states' rights and a gift to Chinese pork conglomerates like Smithfield Foods. In July the groups rallied in Washington, D.C., to join in nearly 100 meetings on Capitol Hill and spoke out against the EATS Act at their annual conference in Kansas City, Missouri. The groups are determined to prevent the measure from marginalizing American family farmers and opening the floodgates to Chinas takeover of American agriculture alongside conservative groups like FreedomWorks, and expect more letters against EATS from Members of the House and Senate to be sent in the coming weeks.

We write today expressing our strong opposition to inclusion of the Ending Agricultural Trade Suppression (EATS) Act (S. 2019) or any similar legislation in the 2023 Farm Bill, wrote the members. The EATS Act would have a sweeping impact if passedthreatening countless state laws and opening the floodgates to unnecessary litigation. The bill is particularly draconian in that it aims to negate state and local laws when there are no federal standards to take their place, creating an overnight regulatory vacuum. In doing so, the EATS Act would drastically broaden the scope of federal preemption, and disregard the wisdom of duly-enacted laws that address local concerns, they continued.

We applaud the Senators for speaking up in staunch opposition to the terrible EATS assault on independent family farmers, states rights, and the Constitution, and Sen. Feinstein for her tremendous leadership, said Marty Irby, President at Capitol South, LLC who lobbied for the letter, and Board Secretary at the Organization for Competitive Markets. The EATS Act is nothing more than a giveaway to Chinese interests like Smithfield and other multinational conglomerates who continue to increase concentration in the marketplace and wipe out American family farmers from the land, and it must be stopped.

The campaign against the EATS Act centers on the opposition of family poultry, pork, and dairy farms, as well as independent cattle ranchers. The groups are concerned that Chinese interests are not solely focused on land rights; they are aggressively acquiring entire agricultural companies, posing a significant threat to American farming sovereignty. Enacting the EATS Act via the Farm Bill would eliminate hundreds of state agricultural laws, effectively paving the way for even more foreign intrusion without guardrails. This absence of rules, particularly those that support American family farmers and ranchers, would create an environment in which large Chinese corporations like Smithfield Foods and others can easily expand across all 50 states without having to comply with state laws that protect rural communities, American farming families, and consumers. Competitive Markets Action is currently represented by Capitol South, LLC, Vincent Trometter, and Conaway-Graves on the issue.

Were elated to see such a strong showing of Senators come out swinging against the EATS Act and are committed to prevent its inclusion in the upcoming farm bill, said Vinnie Trometter, Director of Government Relations at Competitive Markets Action, and a native of Williamsport located in the 15th Congressional District of Pennsylvania, a seat held by House Agriculture Committee Chairman Glenn Thompson, R-State College.

OCM led the charge in the farming and ranching space to defeat a previous iteration of the EATS Act led by former Rep. Steve King, R-Iowa, from being included in the 2018 Farm Bill led by former House Agriculture Committee Chairman Mike Conaway, R-Texas, and current Senate Agriculture Committee Chairwoman Debbie Stabenow, D-Mich. In recent weeks, even Marshall declared on RFDTV: Were getting the heck beat out of us, on the terrible EATS Act.

If EATS is included in the upcoming Farm Bill, itll mark the end of American family farming as we know it, added Deborah Mills, Chairwoman of the National Dairy Producers Organization and a Board Director at the Organization for Competitive Markets. We must fight this hostile takeover with everything we have  its clear from China Weeklys recent commentary that the Hinson-Marshall EATS Act is Chinas baby.

In June, OCM and CMA launched a campaign against the EATS Act which included ad buys in Politico Morning and Weekly Ag for three full weeks in June and one full week in July, as well as ad buys that included a takeover of The Daily Callers homepage five times as well as radio ads in key Congressional Districts, and a billboard truck on Capitol Hill, the last half of July thatll be returning for the full month of September and beyond. The ads encourage voters to contact their elected officials and ask them to vote no on any Farm Bill that contains the EATS Act. OCM and CMA plan to continue the ad campaign throughout the course of 2023 until the Farm Bill is finalized and enacted.

The Organization for Competitive Markets (OCM) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit based in Lincoln, Nebraska. The foundation of the Organization for Competitive Markets is to fight for competitive markets in agriculture for farmers, ranchers and rural communities. True competition reduces the need for economic regulation. Our mission, and our duty, is to define and advocate the proper role of government in the agricultural economy as a regulator and enforcer of rules necessary for markets that are fair, honest, accessible and competitive for all citizens.

Competitive Markets Action (CMA) is a 501(c)(4) non-profit based in Washington, D.C., that was formed with the mission of shaping policy to promote more regenerative and sustainable agriculture, and competitive markets in the U.S., and to defend against attacks on states rights by the federal government. CMA works to raise awareness of the harm caused by multinational conglomerates to the American family farmer, the consumer and our U.S. economy as a whole in an effort to bring about legislative and regulatory reforms.

Capitol South, LLC is Washington, D.C. based a lobbying and public relations firm dedicated to providing proven winning strategies and solutions in the lobbying, advocacy, public relations, and political space.

Attachment

Marty Irby Competitive Markets Action 202-821-5686 [email protected]

Source: Competitive Markets Action
Wood Dale, Illinois, Aug. 29, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- AAR CORP. (NYSE: AIR), a leading provider of aviation services to commercial and government operators, MROs, and OEMs, has signed two multi-year commercial agreements with Moog Inc. (NYSE: MOG.A and MOG.B). The agreements are the first steps in a new strategic relationship that allows for potential future expansion of the scope of services provided.



Under the first agreement, AAR will distribute Moog products applicable to mature aircraft platforms to customers globally. This new OEM relationship complements AARs existing product offerings and customer base. Additionally, Moog will benefit from AARs value added services, which include a close-to-the-customer model that provides efficient delivery of inventory to the end customer, enabling Moogs effort for further simplification.



The second agreement will enable AAR and Moog to perform reciprocal component repair services. AARs component repair facilities will receive support from Moog on manufactured piece parts and repair capability while Moog will receive components from AAR.

We are delighted to sign this reciprocal agreement with AAR for aftermarket repairs and distribution. We look forward to continuing to develop our relationship with AAR and build upon these agreements for the benefit of both parties, says Lisa Domanowski-de Jong, General Manager, Moogs Commercial Aftermarket business.

The AAR-Moog agreements demonstrate a commitment to providing additional value to customers through improved product availability and outstanding customer service, says Frank Landrio, AARs SVP of Distribution. AAR looks forward to growing our relationship with Moog by successfully executing on these contracts for the benefit of our collective customers.

For more information on AARs commercial solutions, visit https://www.aarcorp.com/en/services/commercial-solutions/.

About AAR

AAR is a global aerospace and defense aftermarket solutions company with operations in over 20 countries. Headquartered in the Chicago area, AAR supports commercial and government customers through four operating segments: Parts Supply, Repair & Engineering, Integrated Solutions, and Expeditionary Services. Additional information can be found at aarcorp.com.

About Moog Inc.

Moog Inc. is a worldwide designer, manufacturer, and integrator of precision motion and fluid controls and controls and systems. Moogs high-performance systems control military and commercial aircraft, satellites and space vehicles, launch vehicles, missiles, automated industrial machinery, marine and medical equipment. Additional information about the company can be found at www.moog.com.

This press release contains certain statements relating to future results, which are forward-looking statements as that term is defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 which reflect managements expectations about future conditions, including expected benefits under the commercial agreements. Forward-looking statements may also be identified because they contain words such as anticipate, believe, continue, could, estimate, expect, intend, likely, may, might, plan, potential, predict, project, seek, should, target, will, would, or similar expressions and the negatives of those terms. These forward-looking statements are based on beliefs of Company management, as well as assumptions and estimates based on information currently available to the Company, and are subject to certain risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from historical results or those anticipated. For a discussion of these and other risks and uncertainties, refer to Risk Factors in our most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and subsequent Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize adversely, or should underlying assumptions or estimates prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those described. These events and uncertainties are difficult or impossible to predict accurately and many are beyond the Companys control. The Company assumes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date of such statements or to reflect the occurrence of anticipated or unanticipated events.

Attachment
CHICAGO, Aug. 29, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Amplify ETFs announces August income distributions for its ETFs.

ETF Name Ticker Amount per Share Ex-Date Record Date Payable Date Amplify CWP Enhanced Dividend Income ETF DIVO $ 0.14292 8/29/2023 8/30/2023 8/31/2023 Amplify International Enhanced Dividend Income ETF IDVO $ 0.13720 8/29/2023 8/30/2023 8/31/2023 Amplify Natural Resources Dividend Income ETF NDIV $ 0.17700 8/29/2023 8/30/2023 8/31/2023 Amplify High Income ETF YYY $ 0.12000 8/29/2023 8/30/2023 8/31/2023

Investors can learn more at AmplifyETFs.com.

About Amplify ETFsAmplify ETFs, sponsored by Amplify Investments, has over $4.6 billion in assets across its suite of ETFs (as of 7/31/2023). Amplify ETFs deliver expanded investment opportunities for investors seeking growth, income, and risk-managed strategies across a range of actively-managed and index-based ETFs. To learn more about Amplify ETFs, please visit amplifyetfs.com or call (855) 267-3837.

Sales Contact:Amplify ETFs 855-267-3837 [email protected]

Media Contacts: Gregory FCA for Amplify ETFsKerry Davis610-228-2098[email protected]

This information is not intended to provide and should not be relied upon for accounting, legal or tax advice, or investment recommendations. To receive a distribution, you must be a registered shareholder of the fund on the record date. Distributions are paid to shareholders on the payment date. There is no guarantee that distributions will be made in the future. Your own trading will also generate tax consequences and transaction expenses. Past distributions are not indicative of future distributions. Please consult your tax professional or financial adviser for more information regarding your tax situation.

Carefully consider the Funds investment objectives, risk factors, charges, and expenses before investing. This and additional information can be found in Amplify Funds statutory and summary prospectus, which may be obtained above or by calling 855-267-3837, or by visiting AmplifyETFs.com. Read the prospectuses carefully before investing.

Investing involves risk, including the possible loss of principal.

Amplify ETFs are distributed by Foreside Services, LLC.

Source: Amplify ETFs
CAMBRIDGE, Mass., Aug. 29, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Arbor Biotechnologies, a biotechnology company discovering and developing the next generation of genetic medicines, today announced the appointment of Ajim Tamboli, CFA, as its Chief Financial Officer. Mr. Tamboli brings over 24 years of health care experience to the role, joining Arbor from Monte Rosa Therapeutics, where he served as Chief Financial Officer. He was responsible for leading private and public fund raises of over $465M, including an upsized $255M IPO in 2021.

I am thrilled to add Ajim to our leadership team, said Devyn Smith, Ph.D., CEO of Arbor. Ajim brings years of experience at the intersection of financial services and biotechnology, and were looking forward to working with him to ensure were well-positioned to continue growing the company and advancing our portfolio of next-generation genomic therapies.

At Monte Rosa Therapeutics, Mr. Tamboli played a key role in corporate strategy and facilitated the growth of the company to more than 130 employees, located across the US and Switzerland. He previously served as the CFO of Rodin Therapeutics, where he ran investor fundraising and supported their successful acquisition by Alkermes. Mr. Tamboli also has extensive experience in healthcare asset management, having co-founded Endurant Capital Management with a team he partnered with previously at Columbia Management. Prior to that he was a biotechnology equity research analyst with Lehman Brothers and additional investment banks.

I am delighted to join Arbor Bios team of changemakers in the realm of gene editing, said Mr. Tamboli. I look forward to playing an active part in the strategic management of the company and contributing to their efforts to revolutionize how genetic disease is treated.

Mr. Tamboli holds an MS in Biotechnology and BS in Biomedical Science from the University of Pennsylvania School of Engineering and Applied Science and is a CFA charterholder.

About Arbor BiotechnologiesArbor Biotechnologies is a next-generation gene editing company based in Cambridge, MA. Combining the promise of CRISPR with advanced computational AI driven discovery, high throughput screening, and robust protein engineering approaches, our co-founders Feng Zhang and David Walt laid the groundwork for our proprietary discovery engine, which has yielded an extensive toolbox of gene editors, far exceeding the number of editors published in the literature to date. We envision a future of gene editing that extends beyond simple knockdowns to include precision writing, precise excisions, and large insertions. This affords us the potential to treat a broad spectrum of patients, from ultra-rare to the most common genetic diseases. Guided by a deep understanding of the molecular basis of disease and our access to a unique suite of optimized editors, we are rapidly advancing our discovery-stage programs with an initial focus on genomic diseases of the liver and CNS for which there are no existing functional cures. As we advance toward the clinic with our lead program in primary hyperoxaluria type I, we look to expand our strategic partnerships around in vivo gene editing across multiple therapeutic areas and ex vivo cell therapy programs to broaden the reach of our novel nuclease technology. For more information, please visit: arbor.bio

Media ContactPeg RusconiVerge Scientific Communications[email protected]

Source: Arbor Biotechnologies Inc
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M., Aug. 29, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Associa Canyon Gate (ACG), a leading provider of community management services throughout the Albuquerque and Santa Fe areas of New Mexico and El Paso, Texas, region, recently partnered with the Toscana at Cabezon Homeowners Association to host a community-wide safety event in conjunction with the 2023 National Night Out (NNO). The branch and association board members organized the event to promote neighborhood solidarity, resident safety, and police-community partnerships. Residents and neighbors attended the event, which featured a bounce house, two food trucks, beverages, and a visit from local first responders.

As the community management industrys sole national sponsor of NNO, Associa works closely with its respective community partners through Associa Supports Kids (ASK), a community outreach program, to educate parents and children on the importance of neighborhood safety. Tens of thousands of ASK giveaway items are provided annually to NNO event attendees who attend both Associa-managed and non-Associa managed community safety events.

NNO takes place on the first Tuesday in August throughout all 50 U.S. states, territories, and on military bases worldwide. Texas and other selected regions celebrate the first Tuesday in October for heat-related reasons. Associa sponsored a total of 104 events in August and looks forward to working with many more Associa-managed communities on Tuesday, October 3 as part of Texas NNO. The goal of all the programs is to promote neighborhood camaraderie and inclusiveness to help make communities safer, more caring places to live.

About Associa

With more than 275 branch offices across North America, Associa is building the future of community for more than 6.5 million residents worldwide. Our 14,000+ team members lead the industry with unrivaled education, expertise, and trailblazing innovation. For more than 44 years, Associa has brought positive impact and meaningful value to communities. To learn more, visit www.associaonline.com.

Stay Connected

Like us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/associa

Subscribe to the Blog: https://hub.associaonline.com/

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Join us on LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/company/associa

Attachment

Tom Womack Associa 214.272.4107 [email protected]

Source: Associa
Boussard & Gavaudan Holding Limited

(the Company)

a closed-ended investment company incorporated with limited liability under the laws of Guernsey with registration number 45582

Legal Entity Identifier: 5493002XNM3W9D6DF327

Publication of Circular and Notices of Extraordinary General Meeting and Class Meetings

As announced by the Company on 24 July 2023, after extensive consultation with its Investment Manager, Boussard & Gavaudan Investment Management LLP (the "Investment Manager"), and its advisers and certain shareholders, the board of directors of the Company (the "Board") has decided to put forward proposals to the Company's shareholders ("Shareholders") for a managed wind-down of the Company (the "Managed Wind-down").

A circular (the "Circular") containing details of the proposals in respect of the Managed Wind-down (the "Proposals") and convening an extraordinary general meeting (the "Extraordinary General Meeting" or "EGM") and separate class meetings of holders of Euro Shares (the "Euro Class Meeting") and Sterling Shares (the "Sterling Class Meeting" and, together with the Euro Class Meeting, the "Class Meetings") has been published today and has been submitted to the National Storage Mechanism and will shortly be available for inspection at https://data.fca.org.uk/#/nsm/nationalstoragemechanism . The Circular is also available on the Company's website: https://www.bgholdingltd.com/shareholder.php.

This announcement provides a summary of the information set out in the Circular and Shareholders should refer to the Circular for full details of the Proposals.

Details of the proposed Managed Wind-down

Should the Managed Wind-down be approved by Shareholders, it will not result in the immediate liquidation of the Company. Instead, the Board intends to work with the Investment Manager to implement an orderly realisation of the Company's underlying assets in a manner consistent with the liquidity of the Company's portfolio. The Board expects the orderly realisation to be completed by the end of 2024, following which the net realisation proceeds will be returned to Shareholders (whether pursuant to the Rollover Option or the Cash Exit, as described below).

Pursuant to the Managed Wind-down, the Board intends to offer to eligible Shareholders the option to elect to rollover all or part of their investment in the Company into new shares in a sub-fund of BG Eire ICAV, managed by the Investment Manager, or such other vehicle as may be considered suitable by the Board and the Investment Manager (the "BG Rollover Fund") (the "Rollover Option"). The Board understands that, irrespective of the Proposals for the Company, the Investment Manager (and the wider Boussard & Gavaudan Group) remains committed to its investment management business and will continue to manage a range of investment products including alternative, private and mutual funds focussed on multi-strategy, convertible bonds and private credit/direct lending. The Rollover Option is therefore intended to provide eligible Shareholders the flexibility to remain invested in a vehicle managed by the Investment Manager's group.

Shareholders who do not or are not eligible to elect for the Rollover Option shall instead receive cash pursuant to a full cash exit prior to the Company formally entering into liquidation (the "Cash Exit").

A Shareholder circular containing details of the proposed Rollover Option (including the full eligibility requirements for investment in the BG Rollover Fund, which will include a minimum subscription amount of 500,000 or its currency equivalent) and the Cash Exit, together with election forms for eligible Shareholders wishing to participate in the Rollover Option, is expected to be published in the second half of 2024.

Extraordinary General Meeting and Class Meetings

The purpose of the Extraordinary General Meeting and the Class Meetings (the "Meetings") is to allow the Shareholders to consider and, if thought fit, pass resolutions (the "Resolutions") which seek Shareholders' approval to:

(i) amend the Company's Investment Objective and Policy in order for the Company to follow the Managed Wind-down process set out in the Circular;

(ii) convert the Shares into ordinary shares that are redeemable at the option of the Company, to allow for the net realisation proceeds of the assets realised in accordance with the Managed Wind-down (less expenses and the costs of subsequently de-listing and liquidating the Company) to be returned to Shareholders pursuant to the Rollover Option or the Cash Exit by way of a pro rata redemption of their Shares, as described in more detail in the Circular; and

(iii) amend the articles of incorporation of the Company to allow the Directors to carry out compulsory redemptions of Shares, as described in more detail in the Circular.





The EGM will be held at Ground Floor, Dorey Court, Admiral Park, St Peter Port, Guernsey GY1 2HT at 11.30 a.m. on 28 September 2023. The Euro Class Meeting and Sterling Class Meeting will be held at the same venue on the same date at 11.45 a.m. and 12.00 p.m. respectively.

The notices of the Meetings, which include the full text of the Resolutions, are set out in Part II, Part III and Part IV of the Circular.

Action to be taken by Shareholders

Whether or not you intend to be present at the Meetings, you are requested to complete, sign and return the relevant forms of proxy enclosed with the Circular, in accordance with the instructions printed thereon, so as to be received: (i) in respect of Euro Shares held via Euroclear Nederland, electronically by Van Lanschot Kempen N.V., Beethovenstraat 300, attn T&S/OS/Agency Services L11, 1077 WZ Amsterdam, the Netherlands (by e-mail at [email protected] or by fax at +31 20 348 9549); or (ii) in respect of Shares held in CREST and Shares held in certificated form, by email to [email protected] or by post or by hand to JTC Registrars Limited, Ground Floor, Dorey Court, Admiral Park, St Peter Port, Guernsey GY1 2HT, as soon as possible but in any event so as to arrive not later than 48 hours before the time appointed for the Extraordinary General Meeting or relevant Class Meeting (or at any adjournment of such meetings), as applicable.

The lodging of a form of proxy will not prevent a Shareholder from attending the Extraordinary General Meeting or relevant Class Meeting and voting in person if they so wish.

Recommendation

The Board considers that the Proposals are in the best interests of the Company and its Shareholders as a whole. The Board recommends that:

all Shareholders vote in favour of the Resolutions to be proposed at the Extraordinary General Meeting; and

the Euro Shareholders and the Sterling Shareholders vote in favour of the Resolutions to be proposed at the Euro Class Meeting and the Sterling Class Meeting, respectively.

The Directors intend to vote in favour of all Resolutions in respect of their own beneficial holdings of Shares, including Shares held by persons closely associated with them, which, in aggregate, amount to 7,727 Shares, representing approximately 0.004 per cent. of the total voting rights in the Company.

Expected timetable of events

Record date for participation and voting at the Extraordinary General Meeting and Class Meetings Close of business on 26 September 2023 Latest time and date for receipt of Forms of Proxy for the Extraordinary General Meeting 11.30 a.m. on 26 September 2023 Latest time and date for receipt of Forms of Proxy for the Euro Class Meeting 11.45 a.m. on 26 September 2023 Latest time and date for receipt of Forms of Proxy for the Sterling Class Meeting 12.00 p.m. on 26 September 2023 Extraordinary General Meeting 11.30 a.m. on 28 September 2023 Euro Class Meeting 11.45 a.m. on 28 September 2023 Sterling Class Meeting 12.00 p.m. on 28 September 2023 Announcement of results of the Extraordinary General Meeting and Class Meetings 28 September 2023

For further information please contact:

Boussard & Gavaudan Investment Management, LLP

Emmanuel Gavaudan

+44 20 3751 5389

JTC Fund Solutions (Guernsey) Limited

Secretary

+44 (0) 1481 702400

29 August 2023

Website: www.bgholdingltd.com

The Company is established as a closed-ended investment company domiciled in Guernsey. The Company has been authorised by the Guernsey Financial Services Commission as an authorised closed-ended investment scheme. The Company is registered with the Dutch Authority for the Financial Markets as a collective investment scheme pursuant to article 2:73 in conjunction with 2:66 of the Dutch Financial Supervision Act (Wet op het financieel toezicht). The shares of the Company (the "Shares") are listed on Euronext Amsterdam. The Shares are also listed on the Official List of the UK Listing Authority and admitted to trading on the London Stock Exchange plc's main market for listed securities.

This is not an offer to sell or a solicitation of any offer to buy any securities in the United States or in any other jurisdiction. This announcement is not intended to and does not constitute, or form part of, any offer or invitation to purchase any securities or the solicitation of any vote or approval in any jurisdiction, nor shall there be any sale, issuance or transfer of the securities referred to in this announcement in any jurisdiction in contravention of applicable law.

Neither the Company nor BG Fund, a sub-fund of BG Umbrella Fund plc, has been, and neither will be, registered under the US Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the "Investment Company Act"). In addition the securities referenced in this announcement have not been and will not be registered under the US Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "Securities Act"). Consequently any such securities may not be offered, sold or otherwise transferred within the United States or to, or for the account or benefit of, US persons except in accordance with the Securities Act or an exemption therefrom and under circumstances which will not require the issuer of such securities to register under the Investment Company Act. No public offering of any securities will be made in the United States.

You should always bear in mind that:

all investment is subject to risk;

results in the past are no guarantee of future results;

the investment performance of BGHL may go down as well as up. You may not get back all of your original investment; and

if you are in any doubt about the contents of this communication or if you consider making an investment decision, you are advised to seek expert financial advice.

This communication is for information purposes only and the information contained in this communication should not be relied upon as a substitute for financial or other professional advice.

END OF ANNOUNCEMENT

Attachments
Boussard & Gavaudan Holding Limited (the Company)

a closed-ended investment company incorporated with limited liability under the laws of Guernsey with registration number 45582

Notice of Annual General Meeting

In accordance with Listing Rule LR 9.6.1, the Company has submitted a circular (the Circular) including a notice of the Companys annual general meeting to be held on Friday, 28 September 2023 at 11.00 a.m. to the National Storage Mechanism and it will shortly be available for inspection at

https://data.fca.org.uk/#/nsm/nationalstoragemechanism .

The Circular and forms of proxy for use at the annual general meeting are also available from the Shareholder Information section of the Companys website: https://www.bgholdingltd.com/shareholder.php .

For further information please contact:

Boussard & Gavaudan Investment Management, LLP

Emmanuel Gavaudan

+44 20 3751 5389

JTC Fund Solutions (Guernsey) Limited

Secretary

+44 (0) 1481 702400

29 August 2023

Website: www.bgholdingltd.com

The Company is established as a closed-ended investment company domiciled in Guernsey. The Company has been authorised by the Guernsey Financial Services Commission as an authorised closed-ended investment scheme. The Company is registered with the Dutch Authority for the Financial Markets as a collective investment scheme pursuant to article 2:73 in conjunction with 2:66 of the Dutch Financial Supervision Act (Wet op het financieel toezicht). The shares of the Company (the "Shares") are listed on Euronext Amsterdam. The Shares are also listed on the Official List of the UK Listing Authority and admitted to trading on the London Stock Exchange plc's main market for listed securities.

This is not an offer to sell or a solicitation of any offer to buy any securities in the United States or in any other jurisdiction. This announcement is not intended to and does not constitute, or form part of, any offer or invitation to purchase any securities or the solicitation of any vote or approval in any jurisdiction, nor shall there be any sale, issuance or transfer of the securities referred to in this announcement in any jurisdiction in contravention of applicable law.

Neither the Company nor BG Fund, a sub-fund of BG Umbrella Fund plc has been, and neither will be, registered under the US Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the "Investment Company Act"). In addition the securities referenced in this announcement have not been and will not be registered under the US Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "Securities Act"). Consequently any such securities may not be offered, sold or otherwise transferred within the United States or to, or for the account or benefit of, US persons except in accordance with the Securities Act or an exemption therefrom and under circumstances which will not require the issuer of such securities to register under the Investment Company Act. No public offering of any securities will be made in the United States.

You should always bear in mind that:

all investment is subject to risk;

results in the past are no guarantee of future results;

the investment performance of BGHL may go down as well as up. You may not get back all of your original investment; and

if you are in any doubt about the contents of this communication or if you consider making an investment decision, you are advised to seek expert financial advice.

This communication is for information purposes only and the information contained in this communication should not be relied upon as a substitute for financial or other professional advice.

END OF ANNOUNCEMENT

Attachments
POTOMAC, Md., Aug. 29, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Castellum, Inc. (NYSE-American: CTM) (Castellum) announces that its Specialty Systems, Inc. subsidiary has been awarded a $3 million, 14-month U.S. Navy contract.

With this contract, Castellum furthers the commitment to its U.S. Navy mission.

This is an important contract award as it will permit us to support our U.S. Navy mission customer by maximizing the readiness of the forces as they address a multitude of global threats, said Mark Fuller, President and Chief Executive Officer of Castellum. We are constantly looking for opportunities to leverage our expertise and past performance by creating new ways to support the national security imperatives of all the Castellum mission customers.

About Castellum, Inc.

Castellum, Inc. (NYSE-American: CTM) is a defense-oriented technology company, which is executing strategic acquisitions in the cyber security, information technology and software, information warfare, and electronic warfare and engineering services space - http://castellumus.com/

Forward-Looking Statements:

This release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. These forward-looking statements represent the Companys expectations or beliefs concerning future events and can generally be identified by the use of statements that include words such as estimate, project, believe, anticipate, shooting to, intend, plan, foresee, likely, will, would, appears, goal, target or similar words or phrases. Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements regarding the Companys expectations for revenue growth and new customer opportunities, improvements to cost structure, and profitability. These forward-looking statements are subject to risks, uncertainties, and other factors, many of which are outside of the Companys control, that could cause actual results to differ materially from the results expressed or implied in the forward-looking statements, including, among others: the Companys ability to compete against new and existing competitors; its ability to effectively integrate and grow its acquired companies; its ability to identify additional acquisition targets and close additional acquisitions; the impact on the Companys revenue due to a delay in the U.S. Congress approving a federal budget; and the Companys ability to maintain the listing of its common stock on the NYSE American LLC. For a more detailed description of these and other risk factors, please refer to the Companys Annual Report on Form 10-K and its Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) which can be viewed at www.sec.gov. All forward-looking statements are inherently uncertain, based on current expectations and assumptions concerning future events or future performance of the Company. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which are only predictions and speak only as of the date hereof. The Company expressly disclaims any intent or obligation to update any of the forward-looking statements made in this release or in any of its SEC filings except as may be otherwise stated by the Company.

Contact:

Mark Fuller President and Chief Executive Officer Contact: [email protected] Phone: (301) 961-4895

Castellum Announces the Award of a $3 million Contract to its Specialty Systems, Inc. Subsidiary Castellum, Inc. (NYSE-American: CTM ) (Castellum) announces that its Specialty Systems, Inc. subsidiary has been awarded a $3 million, 14-month U.S. Navy contract - http://castellumus.com/

Source: Castellum, Inc.
Repeatedly publish the first half year for 2023 report due to a technical file error. Please use the attached report file.





LITGRID AB, company code 302564383, registered office address Karlo Gustavo Emilio Manerheimo str.8, Vilnius, Lithuania, is publishing results of the Company for the six months of 2023.

Key financial indicators for I H of 2023:



Main financial results

I H of 2023

I H of 2022

Revenue, EUR million

166.9

145.2

EBITDA, EUR million

35.1

0.1

Net profit, EUR million

23

-9.2

ROE (for the last 12 months), percents

-8.7

-3.1

Adjusted* EBITDA, EUR million

20.4

18.6

Adjusted* NET profit, EUR million

10.5

6.5

Adjusted* ROE (for the last 12 months), percents

7.5

6.4







The adjustment of regulated income, costs and profitability indicators is carried out due to temporary regulatory difference from the regulated profitability approved by Council. The indicators are adjusted by the correction of income, which has already been approved by the decision of Council when the regulated transmission service prices of the reporting period were approved. Also, the indicators are adjusted by the deviation of the Council-approved (regulated) and actual profitability of the reporting period, which Council will evaluate when determining the transmission service prices for the coming period.





Attachments:

1. Interim report and financial results of the Company for I H of 2023.

2. Press release.





The individual authorized by LITGRID AB to provide additional information:

Mantas Bieliauskas

Communication project manager

Phone number. +370 370 652 53424

Email: [email protected]

Attachments
COLORADO CITY, COLORADO, Aug. 28, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The vision of Deleno IFC is to become a global leading investment bank and asset management platform, playing a pioneering role in the sustainable development of the financial industry. Throughout the journey to achieve this goal, Deleno IFC adheres to high standards of business ethics and social responsibility, committed to generating greater value for its clients, employees, and society.

Creating Greater Value for ClientsAs a modern investment bank, Deleno IFC is dedicated to offering high-quality, specialized, and customized financial services. The professional team at Deleno IFC comes from various fields, possessing deep expertise and extensive practical experience. The team continually delves into understanding clients' needs and market trends, tailoring financial solutions to individual circumstances.

Deleno IFC places emphasis on research and analysis, aiding clients in making informed investment decisions through independent, objective, and rigorous research reports. With extensive experience and outstanding performance in asset management, Deleno IFC helps clients achieve asset appreciation. The firm has earned a reputation for innovation, remaining attuned to the financial market and actively driving industry innovation and development. The team consistently explores new investment opportunities and business models to provide improved services to clients.

Deleno IFC's investment banking division has broad experience and skills in areas such as stock trading, fixed income, private equity, and wealth management, offering comprehensive financial services to clients. The team members possess industry experience and profound expertise, providing objective, independent, and meticulous advice through analysis and research to aid clients in making prudent investment decisions. Deleno IFC's asset management division manages diverse investment portfolios, tailoring investment plans to help clients achieve their financial objectives.

In executing transactions, Deleno IFC places consistent focus on risk management to ensure maximum protection of clients' assets. With an exceptional team comprising experts from economics, industries, legal regulations, finance, and more, Deleno IFC conducts comprehensive due diligence and risk assessments for transactions. The risk management framework covers all aspects including market risk, credit risk, operational risk, ensuring that Deleno IFC conducts its business activities in compliance and with controlled risk.

Creating Greater Value for Employees

Beyond this, Deleno IFC is dedicated to fostering a positive work environment that encourages employees to unleash their potential. The company provides extensive training and development opportunities to continuously enhance their professional skills and abilities. Recognizing employees as key to Deleno IFC's success, the company offers competitive compensation and benefits, creating a comfortable work environment and growth platform.

Deleno IFC recognizes the pivotal role of employees in its success. Thus, it provides competitive compensation and benefits, as well as extensive training and development opportunities to enhance their professional skills and abilities. Deleno IFC encourages innovation and the unleashing of employees' potential, fostering a positive work environment to drive its ongoing growth.

Exemplary Social Responsibility and Business Ethics

Deleno IFC is subject to strict regulation and oversight by multiple institutions, including the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) of the U.S. Department of the Treasury. The company takes legal and ethical responsibilities seriously, committed to safeguarding the interests of clients, employees, and society at large. Deleno IFC upholds the highest standards of business ethics and behavior, dedicated to maintaining a culture of compliance and transparency. The commitment of Deleno IFC is to adhere to all applicable laws and regulations, acting in the best interests of stakeholders to establish trust and long-term relationships.

Deleno IFC's Vision of Sustainable Development

Deleno IFC firmly believes that only by continuously driving industry standardization and innovation can it create greater value for clients, employees, and society. To achieve this, Deleno IFC actively studies and practices the concept of sustainable development, striving to offer clients more comprehensive and innovative solutions. Simultaneously, the company provides extensive training and development opportunities to employees, aiding them in continually elevating their professional skills and abilities.

Website: https://delenofincorp.com/Disclaimer: The information provided in this press release is not a solicitation for investment, or intended as investment advice, financial advice, or trading advice. It is strongly recommended that you practice due diligence (including consultation with a professional financial advisor) before investing in or trading securities and cryptocurrency

Edward Williams Deleno IFC Advisory at delenofincorp.com

Source: Deleno IFC
Complete College America will work with 80+ colleges across 11 states to eliminate barriers to student success and higher education attainment

INDIANAPOLIS, Aug. 29, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Complete College America (CCA), a national non-profit organization on a mission to raise postsecondary attainment in the United States, announced today the selection of eleven state partners to join the Complete College Accelerator, an ambitious nationwide initiative to improve student success and close gaps in college access and completion. With funding from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundations Intermediaries for Scale (IFS) initiative, CCA will work with eleven state agencies over the next four years to implement research-based practices designed to dramatically increase college completion on a statewide scale. The initial cohort of Complete College Accelerator states includes:

Kentucky Council on Postsecondary Education

Louisiana Board of Regents

Maine Community College System

Minnesota Private Colleges Council

Missouri Commission of Higher Education and Workforce Development

New Mexico Higher Education Department

Ohio Association of Community Colleges

Ohio Department of Higher Education

South Carolina Commission on Higher Education

Vermont State University

Washington Student Achievement Council

University of Wisconsin System

While persistence and retention are finally returning to pre-pandemic levels at both two-year and four-year institutions, there are troubling gaps in access, completion, and career outcomes that continue to persist for students from underserved communities, said Yolanda Watson Spiva, Ph.D., president of CCA. As institutions and economies continue to shift following the pandemic, taking action now is critical to long-term success. Through the Complete College Accelerator, these eleven states and more than eighty participating institutions will build their capacity to scale, implement, and sustain evidence-based practices that improve college completion rates for all students.

Utilizing funding from the national grant program, CCA will engage with higher education agencies from each Complete College Accelerator partner state to build a network of more than 80 institutions who will conduct assessments of institutional performance, build data capacity, and develop and implement strategies to improve student outcomes.

Nationally, about 90% of students from under-resourced families do not graduate within six yearslet alone four. According to NASPAs Center for First-generation Student Success, 56% of first-generation college students had not attained a postsecondary credential after six years. Research from the U.S. Department of Educations National Center for Education Statistics shows that 6-year graduation rates for Black and Latinx students stand at 51.5%, lower than graduation rates for White students.

The Complete College Accelerator builds upon CCAs long track record of developing the capacity of states, higher education systems and campuses to create and implement data-informed transformative policies and practices. The selection of state partners is the result of a competitive RFP process, which launched in February. Participating states were selected from members of the Complete College America Alliancewhich includes senior leadership from states, systems, institutional consortia, and partner organizationsand, in turn, selected the participating institutions.

Originally launched in January 2020, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundations Intermediaries for Scale Initiative is designed to help build the capacity of colleges and universities across the country to implement proven strategies for improving student success at scale. CCA is among six selected entities that will now work over a 5-year period to increase student success through institutional transformation. The members of the IFS Cohort include UNCF, American Association of State Colleges & Universities (AASCU), American Indian Higher Education Consortium (AIHEC), Excelencia in Education, and Growing Inland Achievement (GIA).

To learn more, visit completecollege.org/intermediaries-for-scale.

###

About Complete College America: Complete College America (CCA) builds movements for scaled change and transforms institutions through data-driven policies, student-centered perspectives, and equity-driven practices. Founded in 2009, CCA connects a national network of innovative state and higher education leaders and introduces bold initiatives to help states and institutions confront inequities, close institutional performance gaps, and increase college completion rates, especially for marginalized and historically excluded students. For more information, visit http://www.completecollege.org.
ZURICH, SWITZERLAND, Aug. 29, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Freename introduces Reselling Pages for Top Level Domains of its customers. With Reselling Pages, Freename customers now have a showcase page dedicated to their TLDs, which they can use to promote the adoption and sales of domains on their extensions.

One of the community's most requested features.

Reselling Pages are one of the most requested features by the Freename community and are now finally live. Why have they been so requested? Because with Reselling Pages, the TLDs owners enjoy a customisable showcase page where users can search and buy domains directly on their extension.

A powerful tool for entrepreneurs, companies, communities and influencers.

Entrepreneurs, companies, communities and influencers register TLDs every day because they represent an investment opportunity, a Web3 brand identity and an increasingly mainstream utility. TLDs owners are Registrars offering the market an extension on which any user can register a domain. The TLD owner receives 50% of the value of each registration and this represents an excellent opportunity for passive income. The more registrations are made on the TLD, the higher the income of the TLD owner.

The TLDs owners and the marketing levers for passive income.

To promote Reselling Pages and acquire a growing market of buyers, the TLDs owners can use digital marketing levers. These include advertising marketing, social media marketing and blogposting. Those who already have a large following, such as an influencer or a community, can more quickly promote the registration of numerous domains on their TLDs with a significant opportunity for passive income. Those interested in large-scale marketing initiatives can directly contact Freename for co-marketing campaigns.

About Freename: Freename is the leading Web3 TLDs and Domains platform where users can register and mint their own Web3 TLDs and Domains. Everyone can also get Royalties and become a Registrar. Furthermore, on Freename, users can trademark their Web3 TLDs and Domains to protect their own Web3 Identity worldwide.

Zurich, Switzerland

Mattia Martone

[email protected]



Disclaimer:

The information provided in this release is not investment advice, financial advice, or trading advice. It is recommended that you practice due diligence (including consultation with a professional financial advisor) before investing or trading securities and cryptocurrency.


ZURICH, SWITZERLAND, Aug. 29, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Freename introduces Reselling Pages for Top Level Domains of its customers. With Reselling Pages, Freename customers now have a showcase page dedicated to their TLDs, which they can use to promote the adoption and sales of domains on their extensions.

One of the community's most requested features.

Reselling Pages are one of the most requested features by the Freename community and are now finally live. Why have they been so requested? Because with Reselling Pages, the TLDs owners enjoy a customisable showcase page where users can search and buy domains directly on their extension.

A powerful tool for entrepreneurs, companies, communities and influencers.

Entrepreneurs, companies, communities and influencers register TLDs every day because they represent an investment opportunity, a Web3 brand identity and an increasingly mainstream utility. TLDs owners are Registrars offering the market an extension on which any user can register a domain. The TLD owner receives 50% of the value of each registration and this represents an excellent opportunity for passive income. The more registrations are made on the TLD, the higher the income of the TLD owner.

The TLDs owners and the marketing levers for passive income.

To promote Reselling Pages and acquire a growing market of buyers, the TLDs owners can use digital marketing levers. These include advertising marketing, social media marketing and blogposting. Those who already have a large following, such as an influencer or a community, can more quickly promote the registration of numerous domains on their TLDs with a significant opportunity for passive income. Those interested in large-scale marketing initiatives can directly contact Freename for co-marketing campaigns.

About Freename: Freename is the leading Web3 TLDs and Domains platform where users can register and mint their own Web3 TLDs and Domains. Everyone can also get Royalties and become a Registrar. Furthermore, on Freename, users can trademark their Web3 TLDs and Domains to protect their own Web3 Identity worldwide.

Zurich, SwitzerlandMattia Martone

[email protected]

Disclaimer:The information provided in this release is not investment advice, financial advice, or trading advice. It is recommended that you practice due diligence (including consultation with a professional financial advisor) before investing or trading securities and cryptocurrency.

Mattia Martone Freename press at freename.io

Source: Freename
NEW YORK, Aug. 29, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) --

WHY: Rosen Law Firm, a global investor rights law firm, announces the filing of a class action lawsuit on behalf of purchasers of securities of Hawaiian Electric Industries, Inc. (NYSE: HE) between February 28, 2019 and August 16, 2023, both dates inclusive (the Class Period). A class action lawsuit has already been filed. If you wish to serve as lead plaintiff, you must move the Court no later than October 23, 2023.

SO WHAT: If you purchased Hawaiian Electric securities during the Class Period you may be entitled to compensation without payment of any out of pocket fees or costs through a contingency fee arrangement.

WHAT TO DO NEXT: To join the Hawaiian Electric class action, go to https://rosenlegal.com/submit-form/?case_id=18336 or call Phillip Kim, Esq. toll-free at 866-767-3653 or email [email protected] or [email protected] for information on the class action. A class action lawsuit has already been filed. If you wish to serve as lead plaintiff, you must move the Court no later than October 23, 2023. A lead plaintiff is a representative party acting on behalf of other class members in directing the litigation.

WHY ROSEN LAW: We encourage investors to select qualified counsel with a track record of success in leadership roles. Often, firms issuing notices do not have comparable experience, resources or any meaningful peer recognition. 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.

DETAILS OF THE CASE: According to the lawsuit, defendants throughout the Class Period made false and/or misleading statements and/or failed to disclose that: (1) Hawaiian Electrics wildfire prevention and safety protocols and procedures were inadequate to meet the challenges for which they were ostensibly designed; (2) accordingly, despite knowing the degree of risk that wildfires posed to Maui, the Companys inadequate safety protocols and procedures placed Maui at a heightened risk of devastating wildfires; and (3) as a result, the Companys public statements were materially false and misleading at all relevant times. When the true details entered the market, the lawsuit claims that investors suffered damages.

To join the Hawaiian Electric class action, go to https://rosenlegal.com/submit-form/?case_id=18336 or call Phillip Kim, Esq. toll-free at 866-767-3653 or email [email protected] or [email protected] for information on the class action.

No Class Has Been Certified. Until a class is certified, you are not represented by counsel unless you retain one. You may select counsel of your choice. You may also remain an absent class member and do nothing at this point. An investors ability to share in any potential future recovery is not dependent upon serving as lead plaintiff.

Follow us for updates on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-rosen-law-firm, on Twitter: https://twitter.com/rosen_firm or on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rosenlawfirm/.

Attorney Advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.

Contact Information:

Laurence Rosen, Esq.

Phillip Kim, Esq.

The Rosen Law Firm, P.A.

275 Madison Avenue, 40th Floor

New York, NY 10016

Tel: (212) 686-1060

Toll Free: (866) 767-3653

Fax: (212) 202-3827

[email protected]

[email protected]

[email protected]

www.rosenlegal.com
PASCAGOULA, Miss., Aug. 29, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- HIIs (NYSE: HII) Ingalls Shipbuilding division was awarded a $154.8 million contract modification today for the modernization of USS Zumwalt (DDG 1000).



It is an honor to serve the sailors of Zumwalt and to welcome them to our community, said Ingalls Shipbuilding DDG 1000 ship construction manager Bruce Knowles. The Ingalls team is ready to support you in completing this important work.

USS Zumwalt (DDG 1000) arrived in Pascagoula on Aug. 19 after leaving San Diego earlier in the month. The ship will enter a modernization period and receive technology upgrades including the integration of the Conventional Prompt Strike (CPS) weapon system, ensuring USS Zumwalt remains one of the most technologically advanced and lethal ships in the U.S. Navy.

In January 2023, Ingalls was awarded a $10.5 million contract for the modernization period planning of Zumwalt-class guided missile destroyers, USS Zumwalt (DDG 1000) and USS Michael Monsoor (DDG 1001). USS Michael Monsoor will receive the CPS install at Ingalls during a future modernization period. Additionally, Lyndon B. Johnson (DDG 1002) arrived at Ingalls in January 2022 and is undergoing a combat systems activation.





A photo accompanying this release is available at: https://hii.com/news/zumwalt-ddg-1000-arrival-ingalls-shipbuilding-2023/.

Zumwalt-class destroyers feature a state-of-the-art electric propulsion system, wave-piercing tumblehome hull, stealth design and are equipped with the most advanced warfighting technology and weaponry. These ships will be capable of performing a range of deterrence, power projection, sea control, and command and control missions.

In the last five years, HII has invested nearly $1 billion in the infrastructure, facility and toolsets at Ingalls, enabling their people, improving product flow and process efficiency, and enhancing product quality. As a long-standing partner in the construction and system activation of Navy destroyers, Ingalls is able to leverage their 85-year shipbuilding legacy and modernized facilities to support future generation systems and platforms.

About HII

HII is a global, all-domain defense provider. HIIs mission is to deliver the worlds most powerful ships and all-domain solutions in service of the nation, creating the advantage for our customers to protect peace and freedom around the world.

As the nations largest military shipbuilder, and with a more than 135-year history of advancing U.S. national security, HII delivers critical capabilities extending from ships to unmanned systems, cyber, ISR, AI/ML and synthetic training. Headquartered in Virginia, HIIs workforce is 43,000 strong. For more information, visit:

HII on the web: https://www.HII.com/

HII on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TeamHII

HII on Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/WeAreHII

HII on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/WeAreHII

Contact:

Kimberly K. Aguillard

228-355-5663

[email protected]

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at: https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/61416524-f0b6-4597-ae9d-a8adfb0b7771
Nrresundby, Denmark, 29 August 2023

Announcement no. 16/2023





Interim report for Q3 and 9M 2022/23

(the period 01.10.2022 - 30.06.2023)





In the third quarter of 2022/23, RTX delivered a solid revenue in line with our expectations. For the first nine months of 2022/23 we have grown our revenue by 31% compared to same period last year. Strong partnerships and framework agreements with large global customers facilitate long-term commitment and revenue stream from product volume growth. We still see the aftermaths of the shortage in electronics components affecting customer inventory levels and demand patterns, and we expect this will continue into our next financial year. We maintain the ambitious outlook for 2022/23, comprising a solid growth in both revenue and EBITDA..

Peter Rpke, CEO

HIGHLIGHTS Q3 & 9M 2022/23

Net revenue in the first 9M of 2022/23 reached DKK 557.4 million, which is 31% above last year. The revenue in Q3 is on par with last year. This reflects both the aftermath of the component scarcity and our ability to deliver high volume products to our large global customers, with whom we have long-term partnerships and common interest in delivering robust products in high volumes.

Gross profit in the first 9M of 2022/23 increased by 29% to DKK 257.5 million. RTX has large customers with a broad portfolio of products, and the mix impacts the gross profit. In Q3, the gross profit increased by 14% to DKK 81.9 million.

Gross margin is maintained at a high level, 46.2% in the first 9M of 2022/23, compared to 46.8% last year. The gross margin for Q3 is 48.2%, impacted by revenue from development projects on the new product portfolio.

EBITDA in the first 9M of 2022/23 was DKK 64.1 million, 96% above last year. Last years Q4

was extraordinarily high and we expect a more normalized Q4 this year. EBITDA in Q3 was DKK 14.3 million, 11% below last year, primarily as a result of increased capacity costs, lower capitalization of own development, partially compensated by higher gross profit. EBIT in the first 9M of 2022/23 increased to DKK 34.8 million.

Cash flows from operations (CFFO) in the first 9M of 2022/23 was DKK 43.4 million, more than double of last year. Cash flow in Q3 was DKK 6.7 million. Compared to last year, the cash flow is impacted by a stronger operating result and the development in working capital.

OUTLOOK FOR 2022/23

RTX maintains the outlook for the financial year 2022/23 as communicated on 29 November 2022 in our annual report for 2021/22, with revenue of DKK 700-760 million, EBITDA of DKK 85-105 million and EBIT of DKK 45-65 million.

LONG-TERM FINANCIAL AMBITION

During the past years, the electronic industry has experienced extraordinary supply chain challenges, but we are coming back to a more normalized supply chain situation. However, we see a higher level of channel stocking at our customers and consequently, the reordering points could be postponed. Furthermore, we have limited insight into the development of the market demand of our customers customers. In addition, we are exposed to a weaker USD exchange rate compared to last year. These factors combined will to some extent affect revenue development in RTX in the first 2-3 quarters of the next financial year.

However, we have a solid strategy plan, long-term customer relations and new product introductions which make us confident in our long-term ambition.

For the next three years towards 2025/26, our ambition is to achieve a growth in revenue surpassing a revenue of DKK 1 billion, while increasing profitability and reaching an EBITDA margin above 16% by the fiscal year 2025/26.

CAPITAL POLICY

Due to our strong performance and recovery after some challenging years, we have revised our capital policy. RTX now targets a net liquidity position (total cash funds plus current securities less any bank debt) of DKK 80-100 million.

The guiding principle for the policy on capital allocation and structure of RTX is to: (i) maintain sufficient financial flexibility to realize RTXs strategic objectives, including investments into growth opportunities as well as balance sheet robustness needed for long-term framework agreements, which is needed to support operations. At the same time (ii) ensuring a financial

structure maximizing the return for our shareholders. Thereby, any excess capital after the funding of growth opportunities and after ensuring such robustness, should be returned to shareholders.

RTX A/S

PETER THOSTRUP PETER RPKE

Chair President and CEO





Investor and analyst conference call

On Wednesday, 30 August 2023 at 9.00 am CET, RTX will hold a conference call for investors and analysts hosted by Danske Bank. In this conference call, the Companys management will comment on the interim report for the third quarter and first nine months of the financial year 2022/23.

To register for the conference call, please e-mail [email protected] .

Enquiries and further information:

CEO Peter Rpke, tel +45 96 32 23 00

CFO Mille Tram Lux, tel +45 96 32 23 00

RTXs homepage: www.rtx.dk

Attachment
CHALK RIVER, Ontario, Aug. 29, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- A key facility in the revitalization of the Chalk River Laboratories campus, the Science Collaboration Centre (SCC), is poised to open its doors to staff and partners this fall, serving as the central planning and collaboration space for the companys Science and Technology programs. One of three non-nuclear buildings recently constructed at the Chalk River Laboratories using mass timber, sustainably sourced within Canada, the innovative new complex features 44 meeting rooms, collaborative flex spaces, a university-style auditorium with 200 theatre-style seats, a welcoming library space and a roof-top terrace.

On September 6, Atomic Energy of Canada Limited (AECL) President and CEO, Fred Dermarkar, and Canadian Nuclear Laboratories (CNL) President and CEO, Joe McBrearty, will be joined by other industry executives and representatives, government officials and special guests to celebrate the grand opening of the new facility with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and a facility tour of the new building.

WHAT: SCC Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony, Guided Tour & Photo Op at Chalk River Laboratories WHEN: Wednesday, September 6, 2023 2:00 p.m. (arrival at main entrance for 1:00 p.m.) Note: To attend, media must register at www.cnl.ca/media by 3:00 p.m. on Monday, September 4, 2023. WHERE: 286 Plant Rd, Chalk River, ON WHO: Interview opportunities available:  Fred Dermarkar, President & CEO, AECL  Joe McBrearty, President & CEO, CNL  Steve Innes, Deputy Vice-President, Capital Projects, CNL

About the Science Collaboration Centre

Scheduled to open in the fall of 2023, the six-storey, 9,500 m2 Science Collaboration Centre is one of a series of new enabling buildings that are being constructed at the Chalk River Laboratories site to revitalize the campus, thanks to a $1.2 billion investment over ten years from AECL and the Government of Canada. Constructed using mass timber products sourced from within Canada, the new facility will feature modern office space and meeting rooms for approximately 450 employees, and serve as the new home for CNLs staff library, auditorium and data centre.

Overall, CNLs three new non-nuclear buildings use approximately 3,750 m3 of mass timber as structural material, which is equivalent to taking 800 gas-powered cars off the road or the energy from 400 homes in a year. The new complex also promotes wellness and social governance for all building users through the use of other natural elements, light and materials.

About CNL

As Canadas premier nuclear science and technology laboratory, and working under the direction of Atomic Energy of Canada Limited (AECL), CNL is a world leader in the development of innovative nuclear science and technology products and services. Guided by an ambitious corporate strategy known as Vision 2030, CNL fulfills three strategic priorities of national importance  restoring and protecting the environment, advancing clean energy technologies, and contributing to the health of Canadians.

By leveraging the assets owned by AECL, CNL also serves as the nexus between government, the nuclear industry, the broader private sector and the academic community. CNL works in collaboration with these sectors to advance innovative Canadian products and services towards real-world use, including carbon-free energy, cancer treatments and other therapies, non-proliferation technologies and waste management solutions.

To learn more about CNL, please visit www.cnl.ca.

About AECL

AECL is a federal Crown corporation with a mandate to drive nuclear opportunities for Canada. AECL enables nuclear science and technology, owns the Chalk River Laboratories and other sites, and manages the Government of Canadas radioactive waste responsibilities. It oversees and evaluates CNLs work through contracts.In business since 1952, AECL designed and developed the fleet of CANDU nuclear reactors that serve Canada and five other countries. It also delivered more than one billion isotopes worldwide to detect and treat cancer. Today it delivers value for Canadians through supporting 14 federal departments and agencies, as well as the global nuclear industry.

For more information on AECL, visit www.aecl.ca.

Source: Canadian Nuclear Laboratories (CNL)
FOND DU LAC, Wisc., Aug. 29, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Mercury Marine, a division of Brunswick Corporation (NYSE: BC), today introduced the Avator 20e and 35e electric propulsion systems. The new models join Mercurys electric propulsion lineup alongside the award-winning Avator 7.5e outboard, which launched at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in January. Two more electric outboard products will be unveiled in the coming months as Mercury advances on its commitment to be the leader in electric propulsion.

Were thrilled to advance our electrification strategy and the Mercury Avator brand with the introduction of the 20e and 35e electric outboards, said John Buelow, Mercury Marine president. Building off the success of the Avator 7.5e, these outboards set new benchmarks for innovation, performance, and connectivity. The investment and advancements were making position Mercury to continue expanding our Avator portfolio and soon deliver additional industry-changing, low-voltage electric outboards.

The 20e and 35e feature many of the same innovative features as the 7.5e, including industry-first transverse flux motor technology, a vivid full-color intuitive display and an ambidextrous tiller handle. The new models offer more power and the ability to connect multiple Avator batteries to extend range and run time, plus full access to the Mercury Marine app with the integrated SmartCraft Connect module.

The Avator 20e and 35e outboards generate 2200W and 3700W of power, respectively, at the propeller shaft. The 20e can produce similar acceleration as a 5hp FourStroke outboard, while the 35e generates acceleration that is comparable to a Mercury 9.9hp FourStroke outboard. Offered with tiller or remote steering, both are ideal for powering small vessels, including aluminum fishing boats, micro skiffs, rigid inflatables, tenders, and small pontoons.

Avator outboards are intelligent, electric propulsion systems engineered to deliver a superior boating experience with flexibility to easily extend range and runtime, said Tim Reid, Mercury Marine vice president of product development and engineering. Up to four of Mercurys new 2300Wh batteries can be connected and managed through our exclusive Power Center which safely merges power, enables communication between the batteries and outboard, and allows single point charging.

The 20e and 35e outboards will be available for order starting Aug. 29, 2023.

Batteries and Chargers

The Avator 20e and 35e 2300Wh lithium-ion battery was developed in partnership with the Navico Groups Mastervolt brand and engineered exclusively for marine applications. It's a safe, reliable power source that's been drop-tested and IP67 rated for water resistance.

Boaters can choose to connect directly to one 2300Wh battery for peak simplicity and portability or extend their range and runtime by adding an Avator Power Center and connecting up to four batteries. The Power Center serves as a central hub for power cable connections, allowing for a clean and organized boat installation. Power cable connections to the battery are fast and easy with the toolless, twist-lock connector.

Avator smart chargers constantly monitor voltage and current to deliver a safe, effective charge and can shut down to protect the battery if there is an issue. The 230W Avator charger can recharge a fully depleted 2300Wh battery in approximately 10 hours. A higher speed 520W charger is available and can cut the charge time by more than 50%.

Motor and Performance

Avators industry-first transverse flux motor technology delivers reliable, quiet power. The Avator 35e electric outboard is 63% quieter than a 6hp four-stroke outboard at full throttle. The motor generates high torque with little effort, maximizing battery life and range while contributing to faster acceleration and more efficient overall performance than similar competitive products.

Avator props are crafted of a high-strength, impact-resistant composite material. Their three-blade design maximizes thrust for peak battery life with minimal noise.

Remote Controls

Avator digital controls deliver instant throttle response with zero hesitation and keep boaters connected with the outboard for easy, safe driving. There are three remote throttle controls designed to fit the helm styles popular on small boats.

Connected Devices

A Mercury SmartCraft Connect module comes pre-installed on Avator 20e and 35e models, allowing boaters to wirelessly connect the outboard to the Mercury Marine app via mobile device. The app displays a range of performance data points, along with a GPS map with visualized range estimates for planning trips.

Commitment to Sustainability

The Avator program continues Mercurys commitment across all product lines to redefine marine propulsion in ways that leave a positive impact on the environment. Avator outboards transform the boating experience by making boating possible with no exhaust fumes and zero direct emissions. Each electric outboard is also crafted with many components that are recyclable or reusable.

For more information about Avator electric outboards, visit mercurymarine.com/avator .

About Mercury Marine

Headquartered in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, Mercury Marine is the worlds leading manufacturer of recreational marine propulsion engines. A division of Brunswick Corporation (NYSE: BC), Mercury provides engines, boats, services and parts for recreational, commercial and government marine applications. Mercury empowers boaters with products that are easy to use, extremely reliable and backed by the most dedicated customer support in the world. The companys industry-leading brand portfolio includes Mercury outboard engines, Mercury MerCruiser sterndrive and inboard packages, Mercury propellers, Mercury inflatable boats, Mercury SmartCraft electronics, Land 'N' Sea marine parts distribution and Mercury and Quicksilver parts and oils. More information is available at MercuryMarine.com.
Redevelopment of a historic landmark creates market-rate rental units, commercial and retail space

ATLANTA, Aug. 29, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Monarch Private Capital , a nationally recognized impact investment firm that develops, finances, and manages a diversified portfolio of projects generating both federal and state tax credits, is pleased to announce the financial closing of federal and State of Georgia historic rehabilitation tax credit equity for the $28 million redevelopment and preservation of the Grant Building in Atlanta, Georgia. This historic landmark will be repurposed into a mixed-use development consisting of commercial/retail space and market-rate residential apartments, supporting the continuing trend of growth and redevelopment in the area.



Built in 1898, the Grant Building holds historical significance as Atlanta's earliest example of cage-steel-frame construction and the pioneering full-block occupant. Situated in the Fairlie-Poplar Historic District, in the heart of Atlantas downtown at 44 Broad Street, the 10-story office building became a prototype for commercial structures of the era. With its towering presence, the 135,000-square-foot building stands as one of the Citys first skyscrapers and the second oldest steel construction structure in the Southeast. The Grant Building's architectural legacy and early contributions to the City's skyline make it an enduring symbol of Atlanta's growth and urban development.

The project represents a collaborative effort between two Texan groups, Wolfe Investments and Bluelofts INC. This venture marks the third transformation of the Grant Building. Of particular note, is the extensive conversion of eight floors into 165 market-rate apartment micro-units, managed by Sonder Holdings Inc. to cater to short-term occupants. Strategically situated in proximity to the expanding campus of Georgia State University, this restoration project continues to breathe new life into the historic district. It meets today's urban housing demands by offering affordable, efficient living spaces while creating a more vibrant community.

Monarch is honored to play a pivotal role in the revitalization of the Grant Building. Alongside Bluelofts INC. and Wolfe Investments, were excited about what the Grant Building project will mean to downtown Atlanta, expressed Rick Chukas, Partner and Managing Director of HTC.

For more information on Monarch Private Capital and its impact investment funds, please email Rick Chukas at [email protected] .

About Monarch Private Capital

Monarch Private Capital manages impact investment funds that positively impact communities by creating clean power, jobs, and homes. The funds provide predictable returns through the generation of federal and state tax credits. The Company offers innovative tax credit equity investments for affordable housing, historic rehabilitations, renewable energy, film, and other qualified projects. Monarch Private Capital has long-term relationships with institutional and individual investors, developers, and lenders participating in these federal and state programs. Headquartered in Atlanta, Monarch has offices and professionals located throughout the United States.
AUSTIN, Texas, Aug. 29, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Neuromeka, a global collaborative robot manufacturer, announced it achieved National Sanitation Foundation (NSF) certification for its flagship INDY7 6-axis collaborative robot.

NSF is an independent agency of the U.S. government that assesses the quality and safety of commercial equipment used in the food industry. This certification opens doors for Neuromeka to establish its presence in North America and underscores the companys commitment to providing safe food & beverage (F&B) automation solutions.

With NSF certification secured, Neuromeka is preparing its robotic frying solution for U.S. market launch. This solution targets labor shortages in quick-service restaurants (QSRs) by reducing human intervention in repetitive and potentially risky tasks like deep frying. By ensuring consistency and quality, it streamlines operations and reshapes how restaurant owners address labor constraints.

Earlier this year, Neuromeka made strides in expanding its North American presence by establishing a U.S. branch office near Austin, TX. This initiative aimed to boost local product sales and elevate customer service capabilities, such as robot repair and comprehensive customer training programs.

This month, in a strategic move to further enhance its North American footprint, Neuromeka partnered with Koops Inc., a Michigan-based systems integrator, for the U.S. launch of its robotic frying solution. This collaboration combines Koops' expertise in systems integration with Neuromeka's innovative robotics technology, with the goal of delivering a seamless experience for prospective U.S. restaurant end-users.

While Neuromeka has already achieved success with its frying solution in Korean QSRs such as Kyochon Chicken, one of the country's largest fried chicken franchises, its foray into the U.S. marks an exciting new phase of growth. "Food tech automation is a core driver of Neuromeka's growth strategy, said Dr. Jong-hoon Park, Neuromeka CEO. Building upon this foundation, we're actively securing certifications to facilitate expansion into global markets. With NSF certification, we're well-positioned to make a significant entry into the US market."

Neuromekas frying solution is scheduled for a Q1 2024 debut in the U.S.

About NeuromekaNeuromeka designs and manufactures collaborative robot systems. Neuromekas engineers and researchers develop automation technologies that improve workplace productivity, efficiency, and safety. Their products are used in the automotive, warehouse, F&B, and manufacturing industries.

For more information, please contact Stephanie Park at [email protected]

Photos accompanying this announcement are available at

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/a2aaf994-3eec-4605-af71-720336d77811

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/81f5633f-3ca1-4e41-a660-0b253113c588

INDY7 Collaborative Robot NSF Certification Neuromeka attains NSF certification for its flagship 6-axis collaborative robot, the INDY7. Neuromeka Automated Robotic Frying Solution Neuromekas automated robotic frying solution aims to reduce labor constraints faced by restaurant owners in the U.S.

Source: Neuromeka USA, Inc.
Foundation to utilize Notified PR platform, including GlobeNewswire, to raise local awareness and attendance for AI Bootcamps

NEW YORK, Aug. 29, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Notified, a globally-trusted technology partner for public relations, investor relations, and marketing professionals, today announced a partnership with the Mark Cuban Foundation AI Bootcamps to provide access to Notifieds PR platform, including GlobeNewswire, to aid the foundation in promoting their program locally and recruiting new students. The Mark Cuban Foundation AI Bootcamps provide no-cost Artificial Intelligence courses to underserved high school students. This program will utilize Notifieds cutting-edge PR platform  with advanced tools for social listening and media monitoring, a media contacts database, newsroom publishing, press release distribution and PR measurement  to raise awareness and attendance for the initiative across Bootcamp cities.



Notified staff have contributed to updating the programs curriculum  designed to teach high schoolers about how they can interact with AI in their own lives, the ethical implications of AI systems, and how to build their own AI applications  as part of the programs Curriculum Advisory Board. To help teach these critical technology skills to students, Notified will also host two bootcamps this year in Portland, OR, and El Segundo, CA.

At Notified, were passionate about AI  it has the potential to change not only the way we work, but also the technology skills that will soon be required for jobs across all industries, said Nimesh Dave, President, Notified. Every student should have the opportunity to learn more about AI and develop the skills needed to succeed, and were excited to be partnering with the Mark Cuban Foundation to help further evolve the programs curriculum and guide the next generation in creating and engaging with AI.

Founded in 2019 by Mark Cuban, The Mark Cuban Foundations AI Bootcamps provide students with introductory bootcamps on AI technology  teaching high schoolers the foundational skills and concepts needed to build with and leverage AI. In 2023, the Foundation will host no-cost AI bootcamps for more than 600 students in over 30 cities  including San Antonio, TX; Miami, FL; Dallas, TX; and Pasadena, CA; among others.

Through this partnership, Notified is providing the Mark Cuban Foundation with access to GlobeNewswires AI-powered press release generator and distribution services, to create and send press releases. To further support the AI Bootcamps, Notified will lead two bootcamps to help students cultivate these skills and make a grant contribution to Mark Cuban Foundation AI Bootcamps to subsidize programming costs to include laptop rentals, rideshare vouchers and meals provided during camp for students.

Now in its fifth year  our AI Bootcamp program continues to help a growing number of students across the country gain the critical AI technology skills needed in todays workplace, said Yvette Medina, Director of AI Bootcamps Program, Mark Cuban Foundation. Partnering with Notified will greatly help raise awareness within these communities and advance our mission to introduce students to AI concepts  and were grateful for the opportunity to expand our program even further by leveraging these cutting-edge PR tools.

To learn more about the Mark Cuban Foundations AI Bootcamp program, visit: https://www.markcubanai.org/

Connect with the Mark Cuban Foundation on LinkedIn, Instagram, TikTok, Threads, Twitter, Facebook and YouTube.

To learn more about the Notified PR Platform, visit: https://www.notified.com/public-relations-solutions

About Notified

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Oliver, British Columbia, Aug. 29, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- At the entrance to Phantom Creek Estates winery, visitors are awe-struck at two female figures, each seven metres tall, winged and poised to take flight but tethered to the earth by a slender waterfall of coated bronze. This is Pro Terra et Natura  For Earth and Nature  by Chinese contemporary artist Wu Ching Ru. Its one of six such installations located around the world, which represents two spirits of nature, mother and daughter seeking a sanctuary to inhabit, and their delicate connection to our planet.

Pro Terra et Natura is the perfect first welcome to the winery, said Francois Mateo, Managing Director of Phantom Creek. It captures everything were about: it represents our commitment to creation, to art and culture, and to being careful stewards of this land. It speaks to our responsibility to the community and to what we aspire to accomplish, which is to transform the landscape by challenging the status quo.

Next month, the internationally acclaimed artist  who is of aboriginal Taiwanese lineage  will visit Canada and the winery for the first time since the sculptures were installed in 2019. Shes looking forward to seeing them here, where she feels they are well grounded against the natural, breathtaking backdrop of the Black Sage Bench.

I have been yearning to visit Phantom Creek, to see the sculptures in person, their wings spread wide against the mesmerizing blue sky of the Valley, surrounded by the rich foliage and spectacular scenery, said Wu. I am very grateful that my creation has found its home here.

From September 17 to 19, Wu will be in residence at the winery, drawing inspiration from its surroundings to create 20 individual collectable wine-box art pieces. Winery visitors can see her at work, and on September 18, take part in a special dinner to celebrate the passion for art, the cultural diversity, fine wines and food, and the exciting new opportunities envisioned by the artist and the brand, for which Wu will also design and install a floral arrangement to mark this exclusive collaboration.

It's a partnership first established when Pro Terra et Natura was chosen by Phantom Creek Estates to illustrate its steadfast appreciation and commitment to both art and the environment, and it wont end here. Although Wus first visit was delayed by the pandemic, its only the start of an ongoing collaborative vision to develop an art program and cultural exchange within the international art community.

TICKETS

The exclusive artist dinner with Wu Ching Ru at Phantom Creek Estates takes place Monday, September 18 at 6 p.m. Tickets are $245 per person plus tax and gratuity. To book, please visit Tock.

For the latest news and event info from Phantom Creek Estates, follow @phantomcreek on Instagram, or /PCEWine on Facebook.

ABOUT PHANTOM CREEK ESTATES | Located on the famed Black Sage Bench in British Columbias Okanagan Valley, Phantom Creek Estates is a destination winery like no other. Specializing in single-vineyard red and white varietals grown on storied vineyard sites, the commitment to creation, to the environment, and to challenging the status quo is clear in every aspect of winery operations. Its evident in the care of certified organic vineyards, in traditional winemaking methods using state-of-the-art technology, and in the winerys spectacular design, support of local producers, and dedication to art and culture. From the start, the winery has been guided by the long-term vision of building one of the leading wineries in the country, and in turn, of developing Canada as the next frontier in the world of wine. phantomcreekestates.com | @phantomcreek | /PCEWine

Hours:

Tasting Room: Thursday - Monday, 10 a.m. - 7 p.m. (Last Reservation: 6:15 p.m.)

Restaurant: Thursday - Monday, 11:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. (Lunch Only

Location: 4315 Black Sage Road, Oliver, British Columbia

ABOUT WU CHING RU | Wu Ching Ru is an international Taiwanese artist recognized for merging the artistic traditions of East and West into a unique and deeply emotional aesthetic. Known for both her delicate bronze artwork and her monumental sculpture on the subjects of nature, family, displacement and zen philosophy, Wus art has been placed in some of the worlds most prestigious private and royal collections. Her monumental public sculpture can be found in more than a dozen countries, and over three continents. After living and working in the U.S., Europe and China throughout the three decades of her artistic career, Wu has returned home to sculpt, paint and innovate from her studio in the mountains of Taiwan, amidst the beauty of nature.

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Photos:

For a selection of high-resolution photos, click on the images above or download via Google Drive.

Attachment

Dorothee Xing SMC Communications Inc. for Phantom Creek Estates 778-898-2305 [email protected] Shelley McArthur Everett SMC Communications Inc. for Phantom Creek Estates 604-219-9042 [email protected]

Source: Phantom Creek Estates
Hamilton, Aug. 29, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Quick Train Canada is welcoming the Canadian workforce back to school this fall.

Through a network of community colleges across the country, Quick Train Canada is introducing more than 100 new fully funded job-skills-related microcredentials for workers looking to upskill for their existing jobs or reskilling for a new career. Delivered by the partnered colleges and polytechnics of the national Canadian Colleges for a Resilient Recovery (C2R2), these courses will focus on the tools and skills required for workers to succeed as the economy transitions to more sustainable practices.

As smart technology advances and the net-zero economy rolls out across the country, existing industries are adapting to remain competitive and new industries are gaining a strong foothold in the economy, said Ron J. McKerlie, president and CEO of Mohawk College, a cofounder of the Canadian Colleges for a Resilient Recovery (C2R2) coalition. Quick Train Canada gives workers an opportunity to prepare themselves today to be forerunners in the workforce of tomorrow.

The current Quick Train Canada course offerings focus on preparing people for work in the agriculture sector, natural resources, transportation, clean tech, construction, and other growing areas of the economy. Quick Train Canada microcredentials offer ideal training opportunities for existing workers and those new to a sector to gain new skills and competencies.

Since its launch in January 2023, Quick Train Canada has worked with its member colleges and key industry partners to understand the distinct challenges and economic characteristics of each region. The new microcredentials reflect and respect those regional influences and have been designed to reflect the labour force realities and workforce needs in every province and territory.

Courses are available to learners across Canada in a variety of formats, including: online scheduled; online at your own pace; in-person, and hybrid teaching models. Registration for courses is now open, with new courses being added weekly.

For more information about Quick Train Canada and the new micro-credential offerings, visit https://quicktraincanada.ca/

Quick Facts about Quick Train Canada

1800 learners have completed a Quick Train course since January 2023

Within the next six months, 110 courses will be delivered across Canada, focused on five sectors: Construction; Natural Resources & Environment; Transportation; Agriculture; Clean Tech

65% of Quick Train Canada learners are currently working full-time as they study

66% of Quick Train Canada learners are 31-54 years old (35% 31-40; 31% 41-54)

About Quick Train Canada

Quick Train Canada is an initiative developed by Canadian Colleges for a Resilient Recovery, a coalition of 14 colleges, cegeps, institutes and polytechnics from across Canada, working together to lead the transition to a clean economy. Since launching in January 2023, Quick Train Canada offers fully funded microcredentials allowing learners to take a broader range of courses from institutions outside their home province. C2R2 is supported by an investment from the Government of Canadas Sectoral Workforce Solutions Program. Led by Mohawk College, the coalition secretariat is focused on developing demand-driven workforce training solutions for a net-zero economy.

About Canadian Colleges for a Resilient Recovery

C2R2 is a coalition of 14 highly aligned institutions from across Canada with an established commitment to sustainability that have come together as a driving force, providing the skills required to transition to a clean economy in Canada.

Bill Steinburg Mohawk College 9055752408 [email protected]

Source: Mohawk College
SANTA BARBARA, Calif., Aug. 29, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- RemoteBridge, the immersive 3D platform helping HR and TA leaders build and connect remote teams, announced today that RemoteBridge Onboarding has been named a coveted Top HR Product of the Year award by Human Resource Executive and the HR Technology Conference & Exposition. The Top HR Product awards seek to recognize and spotlight the latest solutions driving the HR technology market forward.

Each year, the judging panel reviews hundreds of submissions to select winners based on several criteria, including the products level of innovation, value to the HR professional, intuitiveness for the user and ability to deliver on what the technology promises. This years program drew entries from across the highly competitive HR technology space, with RemoteBridge chosen as one of 13 winners.

Through browser-based, immersive 3-D technology, the RemoteBridge solution enables HR and TA teams to deliver onboarding experiences in a new and engaging way with avatars in a virtual world - all without goggles or downloads. RemoteBridge Onboarding can also be used for re-onboarding or reboarding existing employees, making it useful whether it is day one or day one thousand.

RemoteBridge CEO and co-founder Alex Sheshunoff said, With the shift to remote or hybrid work now settling in, companies are looking for new ways to help remote team members feel a part of the culture and team. As one of our clients said, If you dont get onboarding right, you end up with disengaged employees who leave. Or disengaged employees who stay.

He continued, Were thrilled Human Resource Executive has recognized RemoteBridges immersive 3D solution for virtual onboarding. Receiving this amazing recognition is further validation that forward-thinking companies are meeting employees where so many of them already arethe virtual world.

Acknowledging that how, when and where we work continues to change, HR faces the task of reimagining the employee experience from start to finish, and that means reconsidering how they recruit, onboard  and reboard  their workforce, said George LaRocque, founder and Principal Analyst of WorkTech and chair of the HR Technology Conferences Innovation Summit. RemoteBridge Onboarding represents a step toward that new way of thinking, with clear benefits for the employee and employer and an element of fun that we havent seen before.

The 2023 winners, including RemoteBridge, will be honored on Tuesday, October 10, 2023, during the HR Technology Conference and Exposition at Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas. RemoteBridge will also be exhibiting at the event in Booth No. 7102 and encourages conference attendees to stop by to learn more.

To schedule a demo, visit remotebridge.com/virtual-onboarding.

About RemoteBridge

HR, talent acquisition and business leaders rely on RemoteBridge to connect and help build great organizations. The patent-pending RemoteBridge platform is browser-based, so no goggles are required, and is used by some of the worlds leading brands for virtual recruiting, onboarding and team building. Through immersive 3D, RemoteBridge is bringing joy to the global workforce, one backflip at a time. Learn more at remotebridge.com.

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/e08f1d02-0cab-43a2-a00e-a5f18234b519

Note to editors: Trademarks and registered trademarks referenced herein remain the property of their respective owners. Media Contact: Kate Achille The Devon Group 732-706-0123 x 703 [email protected]

2023 Top HR Product of the Year RemoteBridge Onboarding wins coveted award from Human Resource Executive and the HR Technology Conference & Exposition.

Source: RemoteBridge
School districts can use Istation with confidence to close learning gaps

DALLAS, Aug. 29, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Nationwide reading scores have reached historic lows, highlighting the need for reading instruction thats evidence-based and highly personalized to meet students areas of strengths and needs. According to the latest research, school districts looking for a solution to help boost student gains in literacy can choose Istation with confidence.

In a new study where researchers partnered with school districts from California, New Mexico, and Texas, results showed Istation usage had a positive impact on assessment scores. Students using Istations reading curriculum showed big gains on the NWEA MAP reading assessment across all grade levels.

Our latest study shows how effective Istations reading curriculum is at raising student test scores across multiple grade levels, said Victoria Locke, Ph.D., vice president of research and assessments at Istation. When Istation is used at least 30 minutes a day, educators can see significant student literacy growth.

Researchers found that students in all grades achieved higher NWEA MAP Reading scores. Students in grades 3-5 made the biggest gains when using Istation as recommended.



Read the full study on Istations website.



About Istation

For over 25 years, educators have turned to Istation as an all-in-one solution for online assessment, instruction, and personalized learning. With Istation, schools get a time-saving program that powers pre-K through eighth grade student achievement in reading, math, and Spanish literacy. Rooted in research and designed to ignite student joy in the classroom, Istations innovative platform drives instructional efficacy and elevates learning to superhero heights!





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Q2 Revenue increased 2% sequentially to $25.3 million with a 15% improvement in gross margin for a consolidated Q2 Gross Margin of 49.9%

Generated $635K in Positive Adjusted EBITDA

Commitment to cost savings drove Q2 operating expense decline of $14.3 million or 50% from Q2 2022

TOPS Loyalty Program Customers recently surpassed 280,000 Members Enrolled

Building Strong Customer demand with Dime Bag Brand Revenue up 41% sequentially

SAN DIEGO and TORONTO, Aug. 29, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- StateHouse Holdings Inc. (StateHouse or the Company) (CSE: STHZ) (OTCQB: STHZF), a California-focused, vertically integrated cannabis company, today announced its financial results for the three-month (Q2 2023) and six-month periods ended June 30, 2023, and provided additional business updates. The unaudited condensed interim consolidated financial statements for Q2 2023, as well as the corresponding managements discussion and analysis are available for download from the Companys investor website, statehouseholdings.com, and on the Companys SEDAR profile. Unless otherwise indicated, all dollar amounts in this press release are denominated in U.S. currency.

Management Commentary

The combination of our commitment to leading in California, our collective depth of industry knowledge, and the hard work of our talented team is beginning to deliver on the vision we had when we established StateHouse, said Ed Schmults, Chief Executive Officer of StateHouse. Reaching positive adjusted EBITDA in Q2 is a solid achievement. Cultivation yields and product quality are continuing to steadily improve, our TOPS customer loyalty program recently reached a milestone of more than 280,000 members, and weve expanded our strategic capabilities with our new managed services offering. These are incredibly exciting developments that demonstrate our resilience in spite of challenging market conditions, and we intend to leverage our industry leading size and scale to build out managed services as a scalable new line of business to further enhance our profitability.

Mr. Schmults added, Weve significantly strengthened our financial position through the recent modification of our debt obligations. Pelorus is a valued partner and these modifications reflect the confidence they have placed in our ability to execute on our growth strategy and advance our position as a leading operator in California.

Mr. Schmults concluded, Consistent execution and steady improvement has been at the core of our success throughout the first half of the year, and we expect to carry this momentum into the second half of the year as well. Weve seen incredibly strong response to our Dime Bag brand which has been resonating with customers well beyond our expectations and proving extremely popular in the market. Our focus on strong cultivation, branded sales and manufacturing and retail will remain at the forefront into 2024 which combined with our robust footprint we believe will continue to drive our success in California.

Q2 2023 Highlights

Q2 2023 net revenues were $25.3 million, compared with $34.6 million in Q2 2022. Retail revenues were $13.0 million, representing 51.3% of total sales for Q2 2023, compared to $18.5 million or 54.9% of total sales in Q2 2022.

Gross profit before adjustments for biological assets was $12.3 million in Q2 2023, compared with $14.7 million in Q2 2022.

Consolidated gross margins improved to 49.9% in Q2 2023, compared to 46.6% for Q2 2022.

Q2 2023 cultivation yields in the Companys Salinas facility were up 34% over Q1 2023. Relative to Q2 2022, yields were up 23% per sq/ft due to improved lighting and growing techniques. TOPS, the Companys high-value customer loyalty program, as of August 29, 2023, had 281,000 loyalty members enrolled.

Subsequent Highlights

Received a capital infusion and revised debt obligations through an agreement with Pelorus Capital Group (Pelorus) to extend the repayment date of the Series A Loan Agreement to February 10, 2027, combined with Pelorus providing an incremental term loan of $7.521 million, to bring the total principal amount of the Series A Loan Agreement to $15.0 million.

Expanded strategic offering with new arrangement with Pelorus for StateHouse to operate a Humboldt County Cultivation Facility. StateHouse will provide Pelorus with its cultivation and operational expertise as well as services including human resources, legal and compliance, post-harvest production and processing, contract manufacturing, distribution, and safety management.

In connection with the Companys ongoing operational expense management, Statehouse elected to not renew the cannabis license and closed operations of the Seaside dispensary.

Selective investments are being made in cultivation (lighting and air circulation) and manufacturing (automated trimming and preroll production) to enhance output and contribute to improving cash flow for the Company.

Operations Update (2)

Total revenue in Q2 2023 improved 2.8% sequentially, despite ongoing competition, price compression and a reduction in retail foot traffic. With better utilization of raw material through vertical integration, the Company has continued to generate strong gross profit before biological asset adjustments with a gross margin of $12.3 million or 48.6% of total revenue. Additionally, the Company remains committed to reducing operating expenses, implementing additional changes during the quarter that have reduced annualized operating expenses from the prior quarter by approximately $8.8 million. These reductions have been achieved through a comprehensive evaluation of the Companys operations, including process improvements, outsourcing of distribution, upgraded and consolidated technology, and the elimination of redundant operations and service providers.

Management reduced headcount an additional 25% from January 1, 2023, to August 25, 2023. Management continues to explore the potential sale of various non-core assets, which is expected to generate approximately $1-3 million of non-dilutive capital (3) to strengthen its balance sheet and fund its growth objectives (2).

The Company has continued to execute on improvements at its cultivation operations, with significant enhancements being made at its Salinas facility. The Company expects flower yields and efficiency to improve during 2023 through infrastructure investments that will increase CO2 and light distribution, which that are expected to increase cannabis yields and potency while continuing to reduce costs and drive efficiency.

In its retail operations, the Company has focused on increasing profitability despite competitive pressures related to sales discounting. Gross margins have held steady as the Company achieved its goal of in-house branded products representing approximately 40% of total retail sales in Q2 and has set a new goal of 50% by end of Q4. In connection with this effort, subsequent to quarter-end, StateHouse elected not to renew its Seaside dispensary license and immediately cease operations at that location.

The Companys manufacturing operations continues to implement new automation as it pushes to lower cost and enhance quality. New product innovation, new flavors and new product sizes have hit the market in Q2 and will continue to flow as the Company revitalizes its product line to enhance competitiveness. The Company has a goal for new product sales to reach 20% of total sales by the end of Q4.

The Company has completed a number of integration milestones to establish itself as a leading California cannabis company. StateHouse is now well positioned as a focused, integrated CPG business with proprietary production, processing, brands, and retail stores. This strong platform will provide the foundation for growth, as well as improvements in profitability. Based on improvements in the business and what has been achieved to date, the Company expects to begin generating positive Adjusted EBITDA (1)(3) and to positive cash flow before the end of 2023(3).

Annual General Meeting

The Company will host its annual general meeting (the Meeting) of the holders (the Shareholders) of common shares (the Shares) on Thursday, September 21, 2023, at 10:00 a.m. Eastern Time. Following the formal Meeting remarks, The Company will provide a business update and presentation.

AGM DETAILS DATE: Thursday, September 21st, 2023 TIME: 10:00 a.m. Eastern Time WEBCAST REGISTRATION: Click Here

Financial results and analyses are also available on the Companys website (statehouseholdings.com).

Notes:

(1) This is a non-IFRS reporting measure. For a reconciliation of this to the nearest IFRS measure, see Use of Non-IFRS Measures and Non-IFRS Measures in the Companys management discussion and analysis for the three and six months ended June 30, 2023. See Non-IFRS Measures, Reconciliation and Discussion.

(2) This is forward-looking information and based on a number of assumptions. See Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Information below.

(3) These targets, and the related assumptions, involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially. While StateHouse believes there is a reasonable basis for these targets, such targets may not be met. These targets represent forward-looking information. Actual results may vary and differ materially from the targets. See Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Information and Assumptions below.

About StateHouse Holdings Inc.

StateHouse, a vertically integrated enterprise with cannabis licenses covering retail, major brands, distribution, cultivation, nursery, and manufacturing, is one of the oldest and most respected cannabis companies in California. Founded in 2006, its predecessor company Harborside was awarded one of the first six medical cannabis licenses granted in the United States. Today, the Company operates 13 dispensaries covering Northern and Southern California and one in Oregon, distribution facilities in San Jose and Los Angeles, California and integrated cultivation/production facilities in Salinas and Greenfield, California. StateHouse is a publicly listed company, currently trading on the Canadian Securities Exchange ("CSE") under the ticker symbol "STHZ" and the OTCQB under the ticker symbol "STHZF". The Company continues to play an instrumental role in making cannabis safe and accessible to a broad and diverse community of California and Oregon consumers.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Information

This news release contains "forward-looking information" and "forward-looking statements'' (collectively, "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of the applicable Canadian and United States securities legislation. To the extent any forward-looking information in this news release constitutes "financial outlooks" or "future-oriented financial information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws, the reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on such information. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, are forward-looking statements and are based on expectations, estimates, and projections as at the date of this news release. Any statement that involves discussions with respect to predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions, future events or performance (often but not always using phrases such as "expects'', or "does not expect", "is expected", "anticipates" or "does not anticipate", "plans", "budget", "scheduled", "forecasts", "estimates", "believes" or "intends" or variations of such words and phrases or stating that certain actions, events or results "may" or "could", "would", "might" or "will" be taken to occur or be achieved) are not statements of historical fact and may be forward-looking statements. In this news release, forward-looking statements include, among other things, statements relating to potential future growth, future financial performance including but not limited to the companys ability to generate materially positive Adjusted EBITDA(1)(3) in 2023, and to begin generating positive cash flow before the end of 2023(3), the companys ability to increase the sale of in-house branded products, sale of various non-core business assets, cost savings related to the strategic partnership with NABIS, future financings and the potential rescheduling or de-scheduling of cannabis under the Controlled Substances Act, and the potential benefits of this change to StateHouse.

These forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions and estimates of management of the Company at the time such statements were made. Actual future results may differ materially as forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance, or achievements of the Company to materially differ from any future results, performance, or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such factors, among other things, include: implications of the COVID-19 pandemic on the Company's operations; fluctuations in general macroeconomic conditions; fluctuations in securities markets; expectations regarding the size of the cannabis markets where the Company operates; changing consumer habits; the ability of the Company to successfully achieve its business objectives; plans for expansion and acquisitions; political and social uncertainties; inability to obtain adequate insurance to cover risks and hazards; employee relations; the presence of laws and regulations that may impose restrictions on cultivation, production, distribution, and sale of cannabis and cannabis-related products in the markets where the Company operates; and the risk factors set out in the Company's management's discussion and analysis for the year ended December 31, 2022 and the Company's listing statement dated May 30, 2019, which are available under the Company's profile on www.sedar.com. Although the forward-looking statements contained in this news release are based upon what management of the Company believes, or believed at the time, to be reasonable assumptions, the Company cannot assure shareholders that actual results will be consistent with such forward-looking statements, as there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. Readers should not place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements and information contained in this news release. The Company assumes no obligation to update the forward-looking statements of beliefs, opinions, projections, or other factors, should they change, except as required by law.

The Company, through several of its subsidiaries, is directly involved in the manufacture, possession, use, sale, and distribution of cannabis in the recreational and medicinal cannabis marketplace in the United States. Local state laws where the Company operates permit such activities however, investors should note that there are significant legal restrictions and regulations that govern the cannabis industry in the United States. Cannabis remains a Schedule I drug under the United States Controlled Substances Act, making it illegal under federal law in the United States to, among other things, cultivate, distribute, or possess cannabis in the United States. Financial transactions involving proceeds generated by, or intended to promote, cannabis-related business activities in the United States may form the basis for prosecution under applicable United States federal money laundering legislation.

While the approach to enforcement of such laws by the federal government in the United States has trended toward non-enforcement against individuals and businesses that comply with recreational and medicinal cannabis programs in states where such programs are legal, strict compliance with state laws with respect to cannabis will neither absolve the Company of liability under United States federal law, nor will it provide a defense to any federal proceeding which may be brought against the Company. The enforcement of federal laws in the United States is a significant risk to the business of the Company and any proceedings brought against the Company thereunder may adversely affect the Company's operations and financial performance.

This news release does not constitute an offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy, any securities in the United States. The Company's securities have not been and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "U.S. Securities Act") or any state securities laws and may not be offered or sold within the United States or to U.S. Persons unless registered under the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws or an exemption from such registration is available.

The CSE has neither approved nor disapproved the contents of this news release. Neither the CSE nor its Market Regulator (as that term is defined in the policies of the CSE) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

For the latest news, activities, and media coverage, please visit https://www.statehouseholdings.com, https://shopharborside.com and https://urbnleaf.com and connect with us on LinkedIn and Twitter.

For further information:

StateHouse Holdings Inc., Ed Schmults, CEO, 800-892-4209

Investor Contact: MATTIO CommunicationsRob Kelly [email protected]

Source: StateHouse Holdings Inc.
(Oslo/Florianopolis, 29 August 2023) Statkraft Energias Renovaveis SA (SKER), Statkrafts subsidiary in Brazil has signed an agreement with EDP Renovaveis S.A. ("EDPR") to acquire the two operational wind farms, Jerusalem and Boqueirao, located in the state of Rio Grande do Norte. The two wind farms consist of 62 turbines and have an installed capacity of 260 megawatts (MW).



Currently, SKER controls 19 renewable power plants in Brazil, with approximately 450 megawatts (MW) of installed capacity and more than 600 MW of wind power under construction in the state of Bahia.

"Brazil is an important country for Statkraft Group's growth, combining greenfield development of renewable technologies and acquisitions. This transaction is another significant step to the continuity of our investment plan," says Fernando De Lapuerta, CEO and President of Statkraft Brazil.



With these assets, the company, including projects under construction and operation, will surpass 1.3 GW of installed capacity in Brazil, strengthening its position as an international leader in renewable energy supply.



The transaction is subject to regulatory approvals and customary closing conditions. Completion is expected in the coming months.



About Statkraft

Statkraft is a leading company in hydropower internationally and Europes largest generator of renewable energy. The Group produces hydropower, wind power, solar power, gas-fired power and supplies district heating. Statkraft is a global company in energy market operations. Statkraft has 5,300 employees in 21 countries. www.statkraft.com

For more information, please contact:

Mariana Aoad, Communication Manager, Statkraft Brazil

Mob: +55 21 999647681

E-mail: [email protected]

Lars Magnus Gunther, press spokesperson, Statkraft AS

Mob: +47 91241636

E-mail: [email protected]




Boca Raton, Fla., Aug. 29, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- With renters across the United States waiting for the rental crisis to ebb, some markets might be more favorable based on long-term pricing trends, according to researchers at Florida Atlantic University and two other schools.

Rental markets in western states are seeing their rental premiums decline or come close to returning to their historical trends, while a few markets are trading at a slight discount relative to their historical trend as rent growth slows throughout the country, according to end of July data from the Waller, Weeks and Johnson Rental Index.

The average rental in Boise, Idaho is renting at a .04 percent discount relative to its historical trend, suggesting that renters could score a slight bargain on the typical rental unit in the area. Its followed by Sacramento, California at a .02 percent discount; Las Vegas, .39 premium; Spokane, Washington, .40 percent premium; San Francisco, .62 percent premium; Stockton, California, .66 percent premium; Minneapolis, .83 percent premium; Phoenix, .99 percent premium; Colorado Springs, Colorado, 1.55 percent premium; and Seattle, 1.98 percent premium.

These are the markets that are most ideal for a renter solely based on long-term rental pricing trends. Since many of the rents in these areas are either below or close to long-term historical trends, renters in these markets are not overpaying, said Ken H. Johnson, Ph.D., real estate economist with FAUs College of Business.

The Waller, Weeks and Johnson Rental Index, a sub-section of FAUs Real Estate Initiative, measures what the average rent is in the 100 most populated metropolitan areas in the county compared to where rents should be based on historical rental pricing trends. The index, from researchers Johnson, Shelton Weeks, Ph.D., of Florida Gulf Coast University, and Bernie Waller, Ph.D. of the University of Alabama, also measures average yearly increases, monthly increases and how much money the typical household needs to make to avoid paying more than 30 percent of their income towards rent.

Lower rental premiums, while a good sign that rents are returning to normal after years of astronomical increases, do not necessarily mean that each individual market is affordable for renters, researchers warned.

It means that rents have settled in many markets and are back to where they should be based on historic rents for a given market, Weeks said. For example, Sacramento has historically faced housing affordability issues and these issues continue. Now, however, rents are returning to typical levels, more in line to local norms rather than being dramatically overpriced.

Some markets, like those in Florida and on the East Coast, are still waiting for rents to come back to normal. Charleston, South Carolina has the highest premium in the country, at 10.72 percent; followed by Knoxville, Tennessee, 10.31 percent; New York, 9.81 percent; Miami, 9.27 percent; New Haven, Connecticut, 9.02 percent; Akron, Ohio, 8.86 percent; Cape Coral, 8.76 percent; Madison, Wisconsin, 8.48 percent; El Paso, Texas, 8.45 percent; and Hartford, Connecticut, 8.19 percent.

Two Florida cities are still among the most overpriced rental markets in the country, Johnson said. However, the recent Live Local Act should help significantly by encouraging the development of multifamily housing. It could give us a fighting chance of getting premiums down by increasing the supply of multifamily housing significantly and in relatively short order.

Researchers warn even as premiums lower, renters are still in for an affordability crisis until incomes rise and more units are built.

Overall, its a sign that we are trending back towards normal, Waller said. Patience is in order, but we have probably heard the end of calls for rent control.
VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Aug. 29, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Tactical Resources Corp. (CSE: RARE) (OTC: USREF) (Tactical Resources or the Company) is pleased to announce that the Company has received confirmation from the TSX Venture Exchange (the TSXV) that the common shares in the capital of the Company (the Common Shares) are expected to commence trading on the TSXV effective market open on August 31, 2023.

In connection with the listing of the Common Shares on the TSXV, the Company has submitted a request to voluntarily delist the Common Shares from the Canadian Securities Exchange (CSE). The CSE delisting is expected to be effective at the close of the market on August 30, 2023.

The Company's trading symbol RARE will remain unchanged, and shareholders will not be required to take any action in connection with the CSE delisting and TSXV listing. The Companys common shares shall continue to trade on the OTC under the symbol USREF.

About Tactical Resources Corp. (CSE: RARE) (OTC: USREF)Tactical Resources is a mineral exploration and development company focused on rare earth elements based in Vancouver, British Columbia, and holds interests at the Peak Project in western Texas. The Company is also actively involved in the development of innovative metallurgical processing techniques to further unlock rare earth element development potential. Find out more at: www.tacticalresources.com and follow us on Twitter.

About the Peak ProjectThe Peak project is located 68 miles southeast of El Paso Texas and two miles southeast of the Round Top Rare Earth Element (REE) project owned by Texas Minerals Resources Corporation/USA Rare Earth (20/80% ownership split). Tactical Resources is party to an agreement with the Sierra Blanca quarry that allows, for a fee, access to and a right of first purchase option to tailings material on the Sierra Blanca property, together with certain rights related to development and processing of the tailing material.

CONTACT INFORMATION

Tactical Resources Corp.Investor RelationsEmail: [email protected] Telephone: +1 (778) 588-5483Matt Chatterton, Director Tel: +1 (778) 613-2068Email: [email protected]Media Inquiries [email protected]

FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTSThis release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation, including predictions, projections and forecasts. Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements that address activities, events or developments that the Company expects or anticipates will or may occur in the future, including such things as the proposed delisting of the Common Shares on the CSE and the proposed listing of the Common Shares on the TSXV. Often, but not always, forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of words such as plans, planning, planned, expects or looking forward, does not expect, continues, scheduled, estimates, forecasts, intends, potential, anticipates, does not anticipate, or belief, or describes a goal, or variation of such words and phrases or state that certain actions, events or results may, could, would, might or will be taken, occur or be achieved.

Forward-looking statements and information are not historical facts and are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties beyond the Companys control. Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, future events, conditions, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, prediction, projection, forecast, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. Actual results and developments are likely to differ, and may differ materially, from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements contained in this news release. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. The Company undertakes no obligation to update publicly or otherwise revise any forward-looking statements, except as may be required by law.

The CSE has neither approved nor disapproved the contents of this news release. Neither the CSE nor its Market Regulator (as that term is defined in the policies of the CSE) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Source: Tactical Resources Corp.
TORONTO, Aug. 29, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Talisker Resources Ltd. (Talisker or the Company) (TSX:TSK | OTCQX: TSKFF) announces that the Companys board of directors has approved consolidating (the Consolidation) its common shares (Shares) on the basis of one post-consolidation Share for every five pre-consolidation Shares, effective September 1, 2023 (the Effective Date).

The Consolidation is subject to approval by Toronto Stock Exchange (the TSX) and follows approval of a consolidation of the Shares on the basis of a range of up to five pre-consolidation Shares for every one post-consolidation Share at the annual and special meeting of shareholders of the Company held on June 29, 2023. As a result of the Consolidation, the number of issued and outstanding Shares will be reduced from 384,856,151 to approximately 76,971,230, subject to adjustment for rounding. No fractional shares will be issued in connection with the Consolidation. If a holder of Shares would otherwise be entitled to a fraction of a share, then the number of post-Consolidation Shares issuable to such shareholder shall be rounded down to the next lower whole number. No cash consideration will be paid in respect of fractional shares. The exercise or conversion price and/or the number of Shares issuable under any of the Companys outstanding convertible securities will be proportionately adjusted in connection with the Consolidation.

The Shares will continue to trade on the TSX under the symbol TSK and on the OTCQX under the symbol TSKFF on a post-Consolidation basis, under a new CUSIP number - 87425A887. The Shares are expected to begin trading on a post-consolidation basis on the TSX when markets open on or about Wednesday, September 6, 2023.

Shareholders of record as of the Effective Date will receive a letter of transmittal from TSX Trust Company, the transfer agent for the Shares, providing instructions for the exchange of their Shares as soon as practicable following the Effective Date. Until surrendered, each share certificate representing pre-Consolidation Shares will represent the number of whole post-Consolidation shares to which the holder is entitled as a result of the Consolidation.

For further information, please contact:

Terry HarbortPresident and CEO [email protected] +1 416 361 2808 Matt FilgateVice President, Corporate Development [email protected] +1 778 679 3579

About Talisker Resources Ltd.

Talisker (taliskerresources.com) is a junior resource company involved in the exploration of gold projects in British Columbia, Canada. Taliskers projects include the Bralorne Gold Complex and the Ladner Gold Project, both advanced stage projects with significant exploration potential from historical high-grade producing gold mines, as well as its Spences Bridge Project where the Company holds ~85% of the emerging Spences Bridge Gold Belt, and several other early-stage Greenfields projects. With its properties comprising 291,392 hectares over 487 claims, three leases and 197 crown grant claims, Talisker is a dominant exploration player in south-central British Columbia.

Caution Regarding Forward Looking Statements

Certain statements contained in this press release constitute forward-looking information. These statements relate to future events or future performance and include statements regarding: the timing of the Consolidation, including the Effective Date; the effect of the Consolidation on the Companys capital structure, including the number of Shares outstanding after the Consolidation; the treatment of fractional shares; and the expected trading date of the post-Consolidation Shares on the TSX. The use of any of the words could, intend, expect, believe, will, projected, estimated and similar expressions and statements relating to matters that are not historical facts are intended to identify forward-looking information and are based on Taliskers current belief or assumptions as to the outcome and timing of such future events. Various assumptions or factors are typically applied in drawing conclusions or making the forecasts or projections set out in forward-looking information. Those assumptions and factors are based on information currently available to Talisker. Although such statements are based on reasonable assumptions of Taliskers management, there can be no assurance that any conclusions or forecasts will prove to be accurate.

Forward looking information involves known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance, or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking information. Such factors include risks relating to general business, economic, competitive, policy and social uncertainties, and risks relating to the failure to receive all requisite regulatory approvals.

The forward-looking information contained in this release is made as of the date hereof, and Talisker is not obligated to update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable securities laws. Because of the risks, uncertainties and assumptions contained herein, investors should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. The foregoing statements expressly qualify any forward-looking information contained herein.

Source: Talisker Resources Ltd.
Tanja Cuppen not available for reappointment as ABN AMRO Chief Risk Officer



ABN AMRO Bank NV today announced that Tanja Cuppen will not be available for a third term. Tanja has informed the Supervisory Board that after having served two terms as Chief Risk Officer (CRO) at ABN AMRO, she is not available for another term. She will complete her current term.



Tanja Cuppen joined ABN AMRO as CRO in October 2017 and was reappointed in April 2021 for a period of three years. Her current term ends at the Annual General Meeting in April 2024.



Robert Swaak, CEO of ABN AMRO: On behalf of the Executive Board and everyone at ABN AMRO I want to thank Tanja for her invaluable contribution to the success of our bank. Tanja has shown strong leadership in turbulent times. She has made a difference through her independent thinking, tremendous expertise and personal dedication.



Tanja Cuppen, CRO of ABN AMRO: I would like to thank my colleagues at ABN AMRO for the collaboration and commitment over the past seven years. I am grateful for having had the opportunity to work with so many passionate people, creating a personal bank in the digital age. I am proud of the progress and impressive transformation the bank has made. Active risk management has supported the performance of our bank and our position as a trusted partner in society.



The Supervisory Board has initiated the process to identify a successor.

ABN AMRO Press Office

Jordi van Baardewijk

Senior Press Officer

[email protected]

+31 20 6288900 ABN AMRO Investor Relations

Ferdinand Vaandrager

Head of Investor Relations [email protected]

+31 20 6282282

This press release is published by ABN AMRO Bank N.V. and contains inside information within the meaning of article 7 (1) to (4) of Regulation (EU) No 596/2014 (Market Abuse Regulation).

Attachment
Roseau, Aug. 29, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Commonwealth of Dominica has taken significant steps to bolster the security and management protocols for its Citizenship by Investment Programme, aimed at fortifying the integrity and longevity of the programme.

Dr. Roosevelt Skerrit, the Prime Minister of Dominica, has been collaborating closely with various stakeholders, including international consultants, to conduct a comprehensive audit of the investment migration programme. Building on an initial audit undertaken last year by a UK consulting firm, the government has been actively implementing new and improved processes through the Citizenship by Investment Unit.

During his recent Budget Speech, the Prime Minister unveiled plans to enlist a globally vetted management consulting firm to oversee the overall operations and management of the Citizenship by Investment Programme. While Dominica already boasts a proactive due diligence process, the government is committed to its further reinforcement, vowing to leave no stone unturned to strengthen it.

We take this matter very seriously and will increase our efforts in showcasing our robust due diligence and risk mitigation efforts on all fronts. the Prime Minister affirmed.

Over the past 18 months, the Government of Dominica has undertaken several measures to elevate the security of its investment migration programme.

A United States-based firm has already conducted anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing training for all Citizenship by Investment Unit staff as the Unit undergoes restructuring. The CBIU was restructured under the supervision of an expert compliance officer to ensure that all procedures were updated, quality control measures strictly followed, and all IT systems upgraded.

The government made a bold move at the start of the year, giving notice of its intent to revoke the citizenship of those who made false declarations or misrepresentations in their applications, particularly relating to previous visa rejections from countries with which Dominica has visa-free treaties.

Dominica has also introduced biometric travel documents and updated its naturalisation certificate, enhancing its security features.

Citizens of the Kurdistan region in Iraq, Russia and Belarus do not qualify for citizenship in Dominica as international security authorities have flagged the regions as high risk. Moreover, the government introduced legislation providing an enhanced due diligence fee for applicants from specific countries. This enhanced due diligence fee offers the government additional resources to thoroughly scrutinise applicants from these countries.

The country also issued regulations to restrict citizens from changing their names.

Dominica has distinguished itself as the first Caribbean country to implement mandatory interviews as part of the citizenship by investment application process  a requirement agreed upon with the United States at a roundtable earlier this year.

We also devised a new rigorous risk assessment and hired firms from the United States and the United Kingdom to begin interviews with all CBI applicants, Prime Minister Skerrit said in the Parliament.

In addition to international firms in the US and UK conducting due diligence checks, Dominicas Financial Intelligence Unit will also assist with the due diligence process. This includes reporting rejected applicants to the JRCC monthly and permitting the JRCC to share that information with the other CBI jurisdictions in the OECS.

Dominica is leading discussions in the region to collaborate on safeguarding the citizenship by investment industry; and has taken measures to emphasise its dedication to cooperating with global stakeholders and enhance the due diligence process to reduce threats from illicit actors.

In addition to these recent changes, new risk mitigation actions include:

Thorough assessment and reduction of the number of agents and promoters of the countrys Citizenship by Investment Programme, who will be strictly monitored, along with developers, to ensure compliance with current regulations governing the advertisement of Dominicas Citizenship by Investment Programme.





Strict enforcement of regulated citizenship fees to prevent any undercutting.





Strengthening of policies and legislation to maintain competitiveness and alignment with international best practices.





Dominicas rigorous due diligence and vetting processes make it extremely difficult for any illicit individual to qualify for citizenship. Background checks occur on the ground where the applicant lives and works, via online databases and now in person.

The Prime Minister has reiterated that Dominica will maintain robust due diligence processes to ensure the country meets international standards and alleviates any security concerns.

We have fresh impetus to go back and relook where we can do even better in giving our international counterparts confidence in our security measures  which are already some of the most robust in the world compared to other jurisdictions, he said.
MALVERN, Pa., Aug. 29, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Vishay Intertechnology, Inc. (NYSE: VSH) today announced that it has been honored by DENSO Corporation, a leading mobility supplier, with a 2022 Collaboration Award.

The 2022 Collaboration Awards recognize suppliers that have continued to provide DENSO with key components that keep production lines moving for the company and its customers, despite the tight supply market. Previously this year, Vishay was also recognized by DENSO with a 2022 North America Business Partner of the Year Award in the Quality Leader category.

Vishay has demonstrated a strong commitment to supporting DENSO on both a working and management level, said Kouji Arima, CEO of DENSO. We sincerely appreciate the companys unsparing efforts and contributions, and know we can count on them regardless of the market situation. We look forward to building an even stronger partnership with Vishay as we continue working together.

"We are deeply honored to receive this acknowledgment from DENSO of our unwavering support during challenging market conditions," said Joel Smejkal, President and CEO at Vishay. "This recognition underscores our commitment to operational excellence and the strength of our partnership with the company. We look forward to building on this level of collaboration to grow together in the coming years."

About VishayVishay manufactures one of the worlds largest portfolios of discrete semiconductors and passive electronic components that are essential to innovative designs in the automotive, industrial, computing, consumer, telecommunications, military, aerospace, and medical markets. Serving customers worldwide, Vishay is The DNA of tech. Vishay Intertechnology, Inc. is a Fortune 1,000 Company listed on the NYSE (VSH). More on Vishay at www.Vishay.com.

The DNA of tech is a registered trademark of Vishay Intertechnology.

Vishay on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/VishayIntertechnology Vishay Twitter feed: http://twitter.com/vishayindust

Link to DNA of Tech image:https://www.flickr.com/photos/vishay/50342588442/sizes/l/

Editorial Contact:Bob Decker RedpinesTel: +1 415 409 0233 [email protected]

For more information please contact:Vishay IntertechnologyPeter Henrici, +1 408 567-8400[email protected] orRedpinesBob Decker, +1 415 409-0233[email protected]

Source: Vishay Intertechnology, Inc.
COLUMBIA FALLS, Maine, and CHARLOTTE, N.C., Aug. 29, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Today, national nonprofits Wreaths Across America (WAA) and the American Legion Auxiliary (ALA) are proud to announce the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the two organizations. Together, they will build a stronger awareness of each groups common missions while supporting fundraising efforts nationwide.

Founded in 2007 and headquartered in Columbia Falls, Maine, WAA is best known for its annual wreath-laying ceremonies each December. The organizations yearlong mission is to Remember the fallen, Honor those who serve, and Teach the next generation the value of freedom. In nearly 4,000 communities nationwide, WAA volunteers are committed to sharing the mission through education and stories of service and success.

ALA is a community of volunteers serving veterans, military, and their families. Their members also support the mission of The American Legion to improve the quality of life for our nations veterans. Founded in 1919, the ALA is one of the oldest patriotic membership organizations in the United States. The ALA has been essential in increasing veterans welfare and rehabilitation nationwide, including participation in the annual National Wreaths Across America Day events.

The signed MOU between the two groups focuses on engagement with ALA members and WAA volunteers to create opportunities for joint community service activities that bring awareness to both groups missions. ALA will expand its participation in WAAs Group Sponsorship Program  there are already more than 100 ALA groups participating nationwide  which raises awareness and sponsorships to place veterans wreaths and support programming while offering ALA an option for fundraising.

ALA will use its fundraising dollars earned through this program to support the American Legion Auxiliary Foundation, which positively impacts the lives of our veterans, military, and their families by funding American Legion Auxiliary programs today and for future generations. Founded in 2007, the purpose of the ALA Foundation is to assist in carrying out the educational, charitable, and other exempt purposes of the Auxiliary by raising funds for, assisting in the conduct of, and providing support to the Auxiliary programs.

We are excited to partner with Wreaths Across America. Both of our organizations have a common goal of making sure the sacrifices of our veterans are not forgotten, said Vickie Koutz, 2023-2024 ALA National President. Many of our members have already worked with WAA in their own communities. We are proud to now work together at the national level.

This partnership is one that I feel strongly will positively impact so many communities across the country, said Karen Worcester, executive director of WAA. The work of the ALA members is so important, and to know that we can assist them in their efforts to raise awareness for their mission and necessary funding to continue to support veterans and military families across the country is quite humbling.

Worcester and Koutz signed the MOU and jointly announced it to membership today as part of the American Legion Auxiliarys 102nd National Convention held in Charlotte, N.C. To support the ALAs efforts through the WAA program, you can make a $17 sponsorship at www.wreathsacrossamerica.org/amlegaux.

# # #

About Wreaths Across AmericaWreaths Across America is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded to continue and expand the annual wreath-laying ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery begun by Maine businessman Morrill Worcester in 1992. The organizations mission  Remember, Honor, Teach  is carried out in part each year by coordinating wreath-laying ceremonies in December at Arlington and at thousands of veterans cemeteries and other locations in all 50 states and beyond. For more information or to sponsor a wreath, please visit www.wreathsacrossamerica.org.

About the American Legion AuxiliaryThe American Legion Auxiliary (ALA) is a community of volunteers serving veterans, military, and their families. Our members also support the mission of The American Legion in improving the quality of life for our nations veterans. Proud sponsor of ALA Girls Nation, National Poppy Day and recognized for advocating for veterans on Capitol Hill, the more than 550,000 ALA members across the country volunteer millions of hours annually and raise millions of dollars in service to veterans, military, and their families. Founded in 1919, the ALA is one of the oldest patriotic membership organizations in the U.S.A. To learn more and to volunteer, join, and donate, visit www.ALAforVeterans.org.

Attachments

Amber Caron Wreaths Across America 2075136457 [email protected]

Source: Wreaths Across America
Volkswagen has adopted a relatively quick approach to entrenching itself in China, the worlds largest market for electric vehicles. Rather than setting camp in China and building local manufacturing facilities such as Tesla did, Volkswagen has opted to invest in Chinese automaker XPeng gain a foothold in the eastern Asian market.

The German carmaker will invest $700 million in Guangzhou, Guangdong-based EV maker Xpeng, a shortcut that will grant the company access to

Read More>>

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Dr. Martin Patrick's Latest Novel Explores Inter-connectedness and Resilience

London, United Kingdom--(Newsfile Corp. - August 29, 2023) - Acclaimed author Dr. Martin Patrick presents his latest masterpiece, "The Labyrinth of Families," a gripping and thought-provoking novel that delves into the lives of Sir Albert Collins and Dominic Harris, two Black British men, as they navigate their fears and uncertainties about traveling to America. Seamlessly blending romance and crime fiction, Patrick's intricate storytelling captivates readers and sheds light on the challenges faced by marginalized individuals in society.

In the novel, readers are invited on a journey through a world of emotions, as the characters confront societal prejudices and discrimination. Dr. Martin Patrick's background in Drama, Film Studies, and Creative Writing shines through in this genre-defying novel, which offers cinematic descriptions and engaging dialogue that bring the story to life.

Dr. Patrick's exploration of the challenges faced by Black men, particularly those who identify as LGBTQ+, is a central theme in the novel. With a Ph.D. in archetypes in narrative fiction, his keen interest in gender politics is artfully woven into the fabric of the story. "The Labyrinth of Families" not only captivates with its thrilling plotline but also resonates with contemporary issues, making it a timely and impactful read.

This novel marks the conclusion of a series that commenced with "Love Both Ways," Dr. Patrick's critically acclaimed debut novel, long-listed for the 2017 Polari First Book Prize. Following the success of his debut, he released "Son of a Dish," a poignant exploration of identity and personal growth.

"The Labyrinth of Families" is available for purchase on Amazon and through other major booksellers, offering readers an opportunity to embark on a literary journey that confronts the complexities of life, love, and society head-on.

About the Author - Dr. Martin Patrick:

A prominent figure in the world of contemporary literature, Dr. Martin Patrick is a Black British novelist renowned for his exploration of life's fundamental struggles in the pursuit of happiness. With a personal journey that spans decades, Dr. Patrick's experiences growing up and fighting for identity and self-assurance have shaped his writing into a powerful voice that resonates with readers from all walks of life.

For more information on Dr. Martin Patrick and his captivating body of work, potential readers can visit his official website: https://www.martinnovels.com/.

Media Details:

Contact Person Name: Dr. Martin Patrick

Contact Email Person: [email protected]

Website: https://www.martinnovels.com/

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/178826
Montreal, Quebec--(Newsfile Corp. - August 29, 2023) - Beauce Gold Fields (TSXV: BGF)(Champs D'Or en Beauce), ("BGF" or the "Company"): is please to provide an update on its ongoing exploration activities at the Ditton Gold project located near Chartierville in southern Quebec. The Company has recently completed a bulk sampling program at specific locations that were previously dredged, including the SB-100 and within the Ditton quarry, the SB-101, and SB-102 sites (Press releases May 16 and June 28, 2023). Fine to nugget size placer gold were observed in the heavy mineral concentrates.

Patrick Levasseur, President and CEO of Beauce Gold Fields, stated, "This bulk sampling has increased our goal to assess the possibility of an economically viable placer gold deposit, as well as to look for signs that could lead to future discoveries of bedrock lode gold deposits."

Image1: Left, Mobile placer plant Ditton property. Right, +5 mm gold nugget SB-100 sample

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/6198/178834_b9fa4e19c4c12ba4_001full.jpg

The 50-ton bulk sample SB-100 was excavated from unconsolidated Quaternary-type glacial till deposit from a ground-level trench located over the interpreted placer channel about 300m north of the operating Ditton (Blais) quarry. The two 50-ton bulk samples, SB-101 and SB-102, each consisting of Tertiary (oxidized and compact gravel) material, were excavated from trenches in the Ditton quarry floor.

Explolab of Val D'Or Quebec utilized a mobile placer plant equipped with a trommel and sluice to process the samples on-site. It allowed the bulked samples to be reduced to concentrates for transport to Explolab's laboratory for finer processing. The samples were subjected to gravimetric concentration to make concentrates of heavy minerals. Laboratory technicians removed gold grains large enough to be manipulated from the heavy mineral concentrates to be weighed and measured. The concentrates were divided into batches of 500 grams and sent to MSALABS in Val D'Or for Photonassay analysis.

PhotonAssay is a non-destructive technique that can assay for non-visible gold to nuggets without destroying the sample. The non-destructive analysis allows for further testing and confirmation of visible gold content if necessary. The results of the Photonassay and the weighted gold particles per bulk sample will be combined to obtain indicative grades in grams per cubic meter (g/m3), the industry-reporting standard unit of quantity for placer gold.

Jean Bernard, B,Sc. Geo., is a qualified person, as defined by NI 43-101, who has reviewed and approved the technical information presented in this release.

A qualified person has not completed sufficient work to classify any mineral resources as defined by National Instrument (NI) 43-101; it is uncertain if future exploration will result in the delineation of mineral resources.

About The Ditton Placer Channel

The placer channel is located near the town of Chartierville, Quebec. The channel is 4 km east of the historical Mining Brook Placer gold mine and 6 km northwest of the US-New Hampshire border. It is also located 115 km south of the Company's Beauce Gold project in St-Simon-Les-Mine.

A sampling program by the Company recovered gold from every sample taken throughout the Ditton quarry (BGF press release January 20, 2022), bringing about the discovery of the Ditton placer gold channel. Further insights to the existence of a channel were gained from the 1980s historical exploration reports of the regional geology and geophysics. It also revealed that the quarry was an excavated pit of an exposed layer of a Tertiary placer channel. Results from the company's 2022 seismic refraction survey lines further support the existence of a paleochannel.

The channel trends southwest to northeast and is believed to open in both directions.

Comparable North American Placer Mines

Projects Location Year Avg. Grade g/m3 Beauce Placer Mining (Beauce Gold Project) Quebec 1960 0.43 Multiple private large placer operations Yukon 2020 0.30 NovaGold (TSX-NG), Nome Gold Project Alaska 2011 0.30

Source: Sedar: 43-101 Report - Beauce July 4th 2018, , Author B. Violette,

Yukon Placer Mining Industry Reports 2010-2014, 2018-2020:Yukon Geological Survey

NovaGold Resources: TECHNICAL REPORT NOME PLACER PROPERTY, 2006, Norwest Corporation

Potential for Lode Gold Discoveries

The recovered gold grains from showed delicate angular shapes suggesting little transportation. A proximal bedrock source of the placer channel could be from the eroded Eastern flank of the valley wall. The bedrock lithology holds a contact point between altered volcanic rock and schist rock. Historical surveys indicated strong magnetic lineaments favorable to hosting gold-bearing quartz lenses.

The Bella Fault line is estimated to run along strike 1 km east of the placer channel where Cache Exploration in 1985 put down 3 diamond drill holes (DDH) along Rang Dix road to test a strong shear zone. The holes intersected andesites containing numerous quartz stringers mineralized with pyrite and much tourmaline. Of interest, in the drill log for DDH number S-2 states that visible gold was noted at 240 meters (GM42843). Cache did not complete the recommended follow-up drilling to test this anomaly.

About Beauce Gold Fields

Beauce Gold Fields is a gold exploration company focused on placer to hard rock exploration in the Beauce region of Southern Quebec. The Company's objective is the trace old placer gold workings back to a bedrock source to uncover economic lode gold deposits. The Company's flagship property is the St-Simon-les-Mines Gold project site of Canada's first gold rush that pre-dates the Yukon Klondike. The Beauce region hosted some of the largest historical placer gold mines in Eastern North America that were active from 1860s to the 1960s It produced some of the largest gold nuggets in Canadian mining history (50oz to 71oz). (Source Sedar: 43-101 Report - Beauce July 4th 2018, , Author B. Violette)

Beauce Gold Fields website www.beaucegold.com

Disclaimers:

This press release contains certain forward-looking statements, including, without limitation, statements containing the words "may", "plan", "will", "estimate", "continue", "anticipate", "intend", "expect", "in the process" and other similar expressions which constitute "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Forward-looking statements reflect the Company's current expectation and assumptions, and are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties including, but not limited to, our expectations regarding mineral exploration. Such statements reflect the current views of the Company with respect to future events and are subject to certain risks and uncertainties and other risks detailed from time-to-time in the Company's on-going filings with the securities regulatory authorities, which filings can be found at www.sedar.com. Actual results, events, and performance may differ materially. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. The Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements either as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable securities laws.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

For further information contact

Patrick Levasseur, President and CEO Tel: (514) 262-9239

www.beaucegold.com

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/178834
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - August 29, 2023) - BMEX Gold Inc. (TSXV: BMEX) (FSE: 8M0) ("BMEX" or the "Company") is pleased to announce a non-brokered private placement financing for aggregate gross proceeds of up to $1,000,000 (the "Offering"). The Offering will consist of the sale of up to 14,545,454 flow-through shares ("FT Share") at $0.055 per FT Share for gross proceeds of $800,000 and the sale of up to 5,000,000 hard dollar units ("HD Units") at $0.04 per HD Unit for gross proceeds of $200,000.

Each HD Unit consists of one common share (a "Common Share") of the Company and one Common Share purchase warrant ("Warrant"), with each Warrant entitling the holder thereof to acquire one additional Common Share at a price of $0.055 for a period of twenty-four (24) months from the closing date of the Offering.

As consideration for services provided in connection with the Offering, the Company may pay cash finder's fees of up to 6% of the gross proceeds of the Offering.

All securities issued pursuant to the Offering will be subject to a statutory hold period of four months from the date of issuance in accordance with applicable securities legislation. The gross proceeds from the sale of the FT Shares will be used to further explore and evaluate the Company's Dunlop Bay project located in Quebec, Canada and proceeds from the sale of the HD Units will be used for general working capital.

The Offering is subject to certain closing conditions including, but not limited to, the receipt of all necessary regulatory and other approvals including the approval of the TSX Venture Exchange.

This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to sell any of the securities in the United States. The securities have not been and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "U.S. Securities Act") or any state securities laws and may not be offered or sold within the United States or to U.S. Persons unless registered under the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws or an exemption from such registration is available.

About BMEX Gold Inc.

BMEX Gold Inc. is a junior Canadian mining exploration company with the primary objective to acquire, explore, and develop viable gold and base metal projects in the mining-friendly jurisdiction of Quebec, Canada. BMEX is currently fully focused on its 100% interest in its two projects, both located in the prolific Abitibi greenstone belt:

King Tut Project consists of 120 contiguous claims on 5,206 hectares

consists of 120 contiguous claims on 5,206 hectares Dunlop Bay Project consists of 76 mineral claims that cover 4,226 hectares

BMEX common shares trade under the symbol "BMEX" on the TSX-V and under the symbol 8M0 on the Frankfurt Exchange.

For further information please contact:

BMEX Gold Inc.

Robert Pryde President and CEO

Tel: +1 (403) 478-6042

Email: [email protected]

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. No stock exchange, securities commission or other regulatory authority has approved or disapproved the information contained herein.

Forward-looking statements

This news release contains "forward-looking statements" and "forward-looking information" (as defined under applicable securities laws), based on management's best estimates, assumptions, and current expectations. Such statements include but are not limited to, statements with respect to the plans for future exploration and development of the King Tut and Dunlop Bay properties and the acquisition of additional exploration projects. Generally, these forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "expects", "expected", "budgeted", "forecasts" , "anticipates" "plans", "anticipates", "believes", "intends", "estimates", "projects", "aims", "potential", "goal", "objective", "prospective", and similar expressions, or that events or conditions "will", "would", "may", "can", "could" or "should" occur. These statements should not be read as guarantees of future performance or results. Such statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such statements, including but not limited to: risks related to the King Tut and Dunlop Bay projects; risks related to general economic conditions, actual results of current exploration activities, unanticipated reclamation expenses; changes in project parameters as plans continue to be refined; fluctuations in prices of metals including gold; increases in market prices of mining consumables, possible variations in resource estimates, grade or recovery rates; failure of plant, equipment or processes to operate as anticipated; accidents, labour disputes, title disputes, claims and limitations on insurance coverage and other risks of the mining industry; delays in the completion of exploration, development or construction activities, changes in national and local government regulation of mining operations, tax rules and regulations, and political and economic developments in areas in which the Company operates. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking statements, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. The forward-looking statements and forward-looking information are made as of the date hereof and are qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement. The Company disclaims any obligation to revise or update any such factors or to publicly announce the result of any revisions to any forward-looking statements or forward-looking information contained herein to reflect future results, events or developments, except as require by law. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements and information. Please refer to the Company's most recent filings under its profile at www.sedarplus.ca for further information respecting the risks affecting the Company and its business.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/178824
Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - August 29, 2023) - Britannia Life Sciences Inc. (CSE: BLAB) (FSE: L020) ("Britannia" or the "Company") is pleased to provide its unaudited financial results for the three months ended June 30, 2023. These filings and additional information regarding Britannia are available for review on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. All amounts are Canadian dollars unless otherwise stated.

Q1 2024 Highlights:

Revenue for the three months ended June 30, 2023, was $1.96m (2022: $1.51m)

During the three months ended June 30, 2023, the Company generated gross profit of $1.47m (2022: $1.1m)

The Company reports Adjusted EBITDA of $778k for the quarter ended June 30, 2023 (2022: $626k). Cash flows from operating activities for the three-month period ended June 30, 2023, was $615k (2022: $14k).

As previously announced, significant corporate developments during the quarter include:

On April 7, 2023, 9,992,340 convertible debenture warrants, that were classified as liabilities, expired unexercised. On May 12, 2023, 10,281,940 share purchase warrants expired unexercised.

On June 5, 2023, Britannia Mining Solutions Inc. (" BMS "), a partially owned subsidiary of Britannia, acquired a 100% interest in Paragon Geochemical Laboratories Inc. (" Paragon "). Paragon operates an industry-leading, fully accredited geochemical laboratory in Nevada, providing mineral assays and geochemical analyses to the mining industry. The acquisition was financed, in part, through a new debt facility provided by a Canadian private lender.

On June 6, 2023, Britannia acquired an initial 51% interest in Cosmetic Lab Ltd ("CosLab"). Based in southern England, CosLab is a leading independent regulatory partner and manufacturer of high-quality cosmetic products for some of the world's most well-known brands and retailers. The terms of the transaction include put/call provisions in favour of the vendor and the Company that could result in the Company owning 100% of CosLab.

Subsequent to the end of the quarter, on July 14, 2023, 893,100 brokers' warrants, that were classified as liabilities, expired unexercised, and on July 17, 2023, an additional 50,000 share options expired unexercised.

About Britannia Life Sciences Inc.

Britannia Life Sciences Inc. is a global platform offering an integrated suite of services to assist companies along their product development journey. Britannia's services, including product formulations, safety assessments, analytical and microbiological testing, global compliance and consumer evaluations are offered to companies ranging from multinationals to startups particularly in the cosmetics, food and wellness industries. Britannia has garnered significant expertise in the development and regulatory approval of topical and edible cannabis products, including preparation and support for novel food authorizations.

Britannia's head office is located at 120 Adelaide Street West, Suite 2400, Toronto, Ontario, M5H 1T1.

For further information contact:

Britannia Life Sciences Inc.

Email: [email protected]

Forward-Looking Information

This press release may contain certain "forward-looking information" and "forward-looking statements" (collectively, "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation regarding Britannia and its business. Any statement that involves discussions with respect to predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions, future events or performance (often but not always using phrases such as "expects", or "does not expect", "is expected" "anticipates" or "does not anticipate", "plans", "budget", "scheduled", "forecasts". "estimates", "believes" or intends" or variations of such words and phrases or stating that certain actions, events or results "may" or "could, "would", "might" or "will" be taken to occur or be achieved) are not statements of historical fact and may be forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are necessarily based upon a number of estimates and assumptions that, while considered reasonable, are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors which may cause the actual results and future events to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Except as required by law, Britannia assumes no obligation to update the forward-looking statements of beliefs, opinions, projections, or other factors, should they change. The reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements.

For a detailed description of the risks and uncertainties facing the Company and its business and affairs, readers should refer to the Company's filings statement available on SEDAR under the Company's profile at www.sedar.com.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/178841
Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - August 29, 2023) - Electric Metals (USA) Limited (TSXV: EML) (OTCQB: NVDSF) ("EML" or the "Company"), further to its press release of August 22, 2023 is pleased to announce it has closed the first tranche (the "First Tranche") of its previously announced non-brokered financing (the "Offering"). Pursuant to the first tranche closing, the Company issued a total of 1,702,128 units (the "Units") at a price of $0.235 per Unit for gross proceeds of $400,000.08. Each Unit consisted of one common share in the capital of the Company (each, a "Common Share") and one share purchase warrant (each, a "Warrant") with each Warrant exercisable to acquire one additional Common Share at an exercise price of $0.35 for a period of 24 months from the date of issuance of the warrant.

The First Tranche closing was completed in connection with a binding letter of intent between the Company and Quail Bend LLC ("Quail Bend") dated May 12, 2023 as amended August 21, 2023 (the "LOI") pursuant to which Quail Bend, or an affiliate thereof, agreed to acquire up to 21,276,596 Units. Following an initial closing of 5,319,149 Units, the Company and Quail Bend have now completed the purchase and sale of an aggregate of 7,021,277 Units for aggregate gross proceeds to date of $1,650,000.10. Please see the press release of the Company dated June 19,2023 for more information regarding the initial closing.

The Company and Quail Bend anticipate a further closing of 14,255,319 Units for gross proceeds of $3,349,999.97 (the "Second Tranche"), to be completed within five days of the receipt of shareholder approval. On closing of the Second Tranche, Quail Bend will become a "Control Person" within the meaning of such term under applicable TSX Venture Exchange ("TSXV") policies. The Company has called a meeting of shareholders to be held on October 5, 2023 to consider a resolution approving the creation of Quail Bend and or its SPV as a new Control Person of the Company. Please see the press release of the Company dated August 22, 2023 for further information. There can be no assurances that the closing of the Second Tranche will occur, either on the terms outlined or at all.

A minimum of 80.0% of the funds raised from proceeds of the Offering from Quail Bend will be used on further exploration and development of the Company's Emily Manganese Project in Minnesota, USA including continued drilling, battery test work and process design and preliminary mine studies. The Offering is subject to the receipt of all required shareholder, regulatory and TSXV approvals.

The summary of the LOI in this press release is qualified in its entirety by the full text of the LOI, as amended, which can be accessed on www.SEDARPLUS.ca under the Company's profile. Please refer to the LOI for more information in respect of the Offering.

The securities issued in connection with the first tranche of the Offering are subject to certain hold periods and/or such other further restrictions as may apply under foreign securities laws.

Warrant Exercise

Further to its press release of July 24, 2023, EML is pleased to announce that 17,552,500 common share purchase warrants (the "Warrants") out of a total of 21,212,000, or approximately 82.75%, have been exercised for gross proceeds of $4,388,125. The Warrants were issued pursuant to a warrant indenture between the Company and TSX Trust Company dated January 5, 2023 (the "Indenture") in connection with a financing of the Company which closed on that date. Pursuant to the terms of the Indenture, the Company elected to accelerate the expiry date of the Warrants to August 24, 2023 (the "Accelerated Expiry Date") from the original expiry date of January 5, 2025. [The Company intends to use the proceeds of the Warrant exercise in the development of its mineral properties and for working capital purposes.] EML is grateful for, and appreciates, the support of its shareholders during this capital intensive period in the development of the Company.

The Warrants that were not exercised by 5:00 p.m. (Toronto time) on the Accelerated Expiry Date were automatically cancelled and are of no further force or effect.

This press release is not an offer of securities for sale in the United States. The securities may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or an exemption from such registration. The Company has not registered and will not register the securities under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended. The Company does not intend to engage in a public offering of its securities in the United States.

Early Warning

Green Mineral Investors LLC ("GMI"), together with its sole manager Mr. Steve Durbin, each of 336 Loring Ave., Los Angeles, California 90024 United States, report that on August 28, 2023, further to a binding letter of intent between Electric Metals (USA) Limited ("EML") and Quail Bend LLC dated May 12, 2023, a copy of which is available under EML's profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca, GMI acquired 1,702,128 units of EML ("Units") at a price per Unit of C$0.235 for an aggregate purchase price of C$400,000.08 pursuant to a private placement of EML (the "Closing"). The acquired Units comprise of an aggregate of 1,702,128 common shares ("Shares") and 1,702,128 Share purchase warrants ("Warrants") of EML. Each Warrant is exercisable to acquire one additional Share at an exercise price of C$0.35 for a period of 24 months from issuance. The acquisition of the Shares and Warrants did not take place across the facilities of any market.

Immediately prior to the Closing, (i) Steve Durbin, sole manager of GMI, held 2,311,000 Shares representing approximately 1.80% of the then-issued and outstanding Shares on a non-diluted basis prior to the Closing and no other securities of EML, and (ii) GMI held 5,319,149 Shares representing approximately 4.14% (approximately 5.93% cumulatively with Steve Durbin) of the then-issued and outstanding Shares on a non-diluted basis prior to the Closing, 5,319,149 Warrants representing approximately 24.25% of the then-issued and outstanding Warrants prior to the Closing (7.94% on a post-conversion basis assuming only the exercise of the Warrants then held by GMI; 9.67% on a post-conversion basis assuming only the exercise of the Warrants held by GMI and aggregated with the Share holdings of Mr. Steve Durbin) and no other securities of EML.

Immediately following the Closing, (i) Steve Durbin, sole manager of GMI, held 2,311,000 Shares representing approximately 1.77% of the issued and outstanding Shares on a non-diluted basis immediately following the Closing and no other securities of EML, and (ii) GMI held 7,021,277 Shares representing approximately 5.39% (approximately 7.16% cumulatively with Steve Durbin) of the issued and outstanding Shares on a non-diluted basis immediately following the Closing, 7,021,277 Warrants representing approximately 29.70% of the issued and outstanding Warrants immediately following the Closing (10.23% on a post-conversion basis assuming only the exercise of the Warrants held by GMI; 11.91% on a post-conversion basis assuming only the exercise of the Warrants held by GMI and aggregated with the Share holdings of Mr. Steve Durbin) and no other securities of EML.

As a result of the Closing, the securityholding percentage of GMI increased by approximately 1.25% in respect of the Shares and 5.45% in respect of the Warrants.

GMI has acquired the Shares and Warrants for investment purposes. GMI may in the future take such actions in respect of its holdings in EML as GMI may deem appropriate in light of the circumstances then existing, including the purchase of additional securities of EML through open market purchases or privately negotiated transactions or the sale of all or a portion of GMI's holdings in the open market or in privately negotiated transactions to one or more purchasers, subject in each case to applicable securities law.

A copy of the early warning report to which this news release relates can be obtained from Steve Durbin at (917) 622-5200 or on EML's SEDAR+ profile at www.sedarplus.ca.

About Electric Metals (USA) Limited

Electric Metals (USA) Limited (TSXV: EML) (OTCQB: EMUSF) is a U.S.-based mineral development company with manganese and silver projects geared to supporting the transition to clean energy. The Company's principal asset is the Emily Manganese Project in Minnesota, which has been the subject of considerable technical studies, including a National Instrument 43-101 Technical Report - Resource Estimate, with over US$26 million invested to date. The Company's mission in Minnesota is to become a domestic U.S. producer of high purity, high-value manganese metal and chemical products for supply to U.S. energy, technology and industrial markets. With manganese playing a critical and prominent role in lithium-ion battery formulations, and with no current domestic supply or active mines for manganese in North America, the development of the Emily Manganese Project represents a significant opportunity for America, the State of Minnesota and for the Company's shareholders. In addition, the Company owns and operates the Corcoran Silver-Gold Project and the Belmont Silver Project in Nevada, with the former also having been the subject of a National Instrument 43-101 Technical Report - Resource Estimate.

For further information, please contact:

Electric Metals (USA) Limited

Gary Lewis

CEO & Director

T: +1 (647) 846 5299

[email protected]

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Forward-Looking Information

This news release contains "forward-looking information" and "forward-looking statements" (collectively, "forward-looking information") within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Forward-looking information is generally identifiable by use of the words "believes," "may," "plans," "will," "anticipates," "intends," "could", "estimates", "expects", "forecasts", "projects" and similar expressions, and the negative of such expressions.

Forward-looking statements in this news release include, but are not limited to, statements with respect to the use of proceeds of the First Tranche closing as well as the Warrant expiry date acceleration. These statements address future events and conditions and so involve inherent risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from estimated or anticipated events or results implied or expressed in such forward-looking statements. Such risks include, but are not limited to, the failure to obtain all necessary stock exchange and regulatory approvals. Forward-looking information is based on the reasonable assumptions, estimates, analysis and opinions of management made in light of its experience and perception of trends, current conditions and expected developments, and other factors that management believes are relevant and reasonable in the circumstances at the date such statements are made. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated. There can be no assurance that such information will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such information. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information.

All forward-looking information herein is qualified in its entirety by this cautionary statement, and the Company disclaims any obligation to revise or update any such forward-looking information or to publicly announce the result of any revisions to any of the forward-looking information contained herein to reflect future results, events, or developments, except as required by law.

NOT FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES OR THROUGH U.S. NEWS WIRES

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/178771
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - August 29, 2023) - good natured Products Inc. (TSXV: GDNP) (OTCQX: GDNPF) (the "Company" or "good natured"), a North American leader in plant-based products, today announced its financial results for the three months ended June 30, 2023 ("Q2 2023").

Q2 2023 Highlights

Revenue of $18.3 million compared to $25.5 million for the three months ended June 30, 2022 ("Q2 2022") and $20.3 million for the three months ended March 31, 2023 ("Q1 2023").

Adjusted EBITDA 1 of $0.1 million compared to $1.0 million in Q2 2022 and $0.7 million in Q1 2023.

of $0.1 million compared to $1.0 million in Q2 2022 and $0.7 million in Q1 2023. Variable gross margin 1 of 37% compared to 33% in Q2 2022 and 38% in Q1 2023.

of 37% compared to 33% in Q2 2022 and 38% in Q1 2023. SG&A expenses of $3.7 million compared to $4.6 million in Q2 2022 and $3.8 million in Q1 2023.

Cash generated by operating activities was $0.1 million for the 6 months ended June 30, 2023 ("H1 2023") compared to $1.4 million for the 6 months ended June 30, 2022 ("H1 2022").

Ending cash balance of $13.2 million compared to $11.9 million at December 31, 2022.

The Company's Packaging business group delivered 83% year-over-year revenue growth largely due to the addition of new customers, cross selling new products to existing customers, and the acquisition of Houston-based FormTex Plastics in July 2022. Revenue declines were largely driven by lower third-party sales in the Company's Industrial business group as a result of industry-wide declines in average selling prices, continued customer de-stocking, soft demand coupled with increased competitive pressure for commodity petroleum-based products, and an overall sector shift to just-in-time ordering.

"We keenly recognize the challenge for our business and stakeholders to cycle through reductions in quarterly revenue as we've navigated considerable macroeconomic volatility and supply chain normalization that we first identified in Q3 2022. Our outlook remains very positive about the continued strong growth in our Packaging business group, and our robust pipeline continues to perform with several new packaging deals expected to enter commercial production in the back half of the third quarter," stated Paul Antoniadis, CEO of good natured. "We also anticipate third party industrial sales to show signs of improving later this year and continue to proactively lower our SG&A spend through cost reduction initiatives, while we also look for ways to restructure and renegotiate our long-term debt."

Q2 2023 Financial Overview

Revenue for Q2 2023 decreased 28% to $18.3 million as compared to $25.5 million for Q2 2022. The Packaging business group realized year-over-year revenue growth of 83% driven by organic growth as well as contribution from the FormTex acquisition completed in July 2022. This was offset by a year-over-year reduction in Industrial business group revenue.

Variable gross margin1 for Q2 2023 increased to 37% compared to 33% for Q2 2022. The increase in variable gross margin reflects the higher mix of revenue from the Packaging business group and productivity enhancements in the variable cost of products. Gross margin for Q2 2023 and Q2 2022 was 26%.

Selling, general and administrative expenses ("SG&A") in Q2 2023 decreased by 19% compared to Q2 2022. The decrease in SG&A expenses reflects the Company's efforts to reduce costs through a year-over-year headcount reduction of 31 people, renegotiating terms across the Company's service providers and suppliers, and through process improvements designed to take out costs and/or improve productivity. The decline in SG&A was partially offset by the incremental headcount and SG&A associated with the July 2022 acquisition of FormTex. Excluding SG&A expenses associated with the FormTex acquisition, Q2 2023 SG&A excluding acquisition activity and one-time charges, declined 22% on a year-over-year basis. On an annualized basis, Q2 2023 SG&A totalled $14.9 million as compared to $17.9 million in the 2022 fiscal year, representing $3.0 million in run-rate cost savings.

The Company's Adjusted EBITDA1 for Q2 2023 was $0.1 million compared to $1.0 million in Q2 2022. The decline in adjusted EBITDA1 in Q2 2023 and H1 2023 reflects the decline in revenue and gross profit dollars, which were not fully offset by the decline in SG&A, and specifically fulfilment and logistics costs.

The Company incurred a net loss of $3.6 million in Q2 2023 compared to a net loss of $3.0 million in Q2 2022.

Cash Flow & Balance Sheet Overview

The Company strengthened its liquidity with the completion of a brokered private placement with net proceeds of $4.4 million in June 2023, as well as reducing its long-term debt by $1.5 million at June 30, 2023 compared to December 31, 2022. Cash flow generated by operating activities for H1 2023 was $0.1 million compared to $1.4 million in H1 2022. Cash use by investing activities in H1 2023 was $1.4 million compared to $3.3 million in H1 2022. As at June 30, 2023, net working capital was $9.2 million compared to $10.0 million as at December 31, 2022.

The Company continues to focus on ways to restructure and renegotiate its long-term debt obligations. During the quarter, the Company successfully renegotiated a June 2023 payment of $0.5 million due to the Government of Canada's Western Innovation Initiative program ("WINN") into monthly installments to be paid over a 24-month period. The Company also intends to relocate its coating and warehousing operations at a leased location adjacent to its Ayr facility by the end of the fiscal year, which is expected to reduce its long-term lease obligations by $0.7 million and reduce operating expenses by approximately $0.2 million.

As at June 30, 2023, the Company's total asset to liability ratio was 1.21 compared to 1.22 as at December 31, 2022.

The Company's Q2 2023 financial statements and Management's Discussion and Analysis are available on SEDAR at sedar.com and on the Company's investor website at investor.goodnaturedproducts.com.

Q2 2023 Results Conference Call

The Company will hold a conference call to discuss its financial results for Q2 2023, hosted by Paul Antoniadis, Executive Chair & CEO, and Kerry Biggs, Chief Financial Officer, on August 29, 2023 at 11:00 AM Eastern / 8:00 AM Pacific time.

Date: August 29, 2023

Time: 11:00 AM ET / 8:00 AM PT

Toll-Free: 1-888-396-8049 International: +1-416-764-8646

Conference ID: 18517762

Participants are asked to dial in 10 minutes prior to the start of the call.

A replay of the call will be available approximately two hours after its completion through to September 12, 2023. The replay will be available by dialing 1-877-674-7070 or +1-416-764-8692 and by using the passcode 517762.

The good natured corporate profile can be found at: investor.goodnaturedproducts.com

About good natured Products Inc.

good natured is passionately pursuing its goal of becoming North America's leading earth-friendly product company by offering the broadest assortment of plant-based products made from rapidly renewable resources instead of fossil fuels. The Company is focused on making it easy and affordable for business owners and consumers to shift away from petroleum to better everyday products that use more renewable materials, less fossil fuel, and no chemicals of concern.

good natured offers over 400 products and services through wholesale, direct to business, and retail channels. From plant-based home organization products to certified compostable food containers, bio-based industrial supplies and medical packaging, the Company is focused on making plant-based products more readily accessible to people as a means to create meaningful environmental and social impact.

For more information: goodnaturedproducts.com

On behalf of the Company:

Paul Antoniadis - Executive Chair & CEO

Contact: 1-604-566-8466

Investor Contact:

Spencer Churchill

Investor Relations

1-877-286-0617 ext. 113

[email protected]

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibilities for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Non-GAAP Financial Measures

We have included in this press release a discussion of the Company's variable gross profit, variable gross margin, SG&A excluding acquisition activity and one-time charges, and adjusted EBITDA all non-GAAP measures, for Q1 2023, Q2 2023, H1 2023, Q2 2022 and H1 2022 to provide, what management believes, is a meaningful comparison of the Company's performance in Q2 2023 and H1 2023. These non-GAAP measures do not have standardized meanings, and therefore may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other issuers. Variable gross profit, variable gross margin, SG&A excluding acquisition activity and one-time charges, and adjusted EBITDA are more fully defined and discussed in the Company's Q2 2023 Management's Discussion and Analysis under the heading "non-IFRS financial measures", which is available on the Company's SEDAR profile at www.sedar.com and on the Company's investor website at investor.goodnaturedproducts.com.

The following table provides a reconciliation of net loss to adjusted EBITDA for the periods ended:



3 mon. ended Jun 30





6 mon. ended Jun 30





2023





2022

+/-



2023



2022

+/-



Net loss for the period $ (3,582 ) $ (3,012 )

19%

$ (6,103 ) $ (4,604 )

33%

Share-based compensation

394



574



-31%



797



1,175



-32%

Depreciation

613



300



104%



1,240



971



28%

Depreciation in COGS & SG&A

530



455



16%



1,062



759



40%

Financing costs

1,796



1,318



36%



3,595



2,293



57%

Foreign exchange loss (gain)

143



789



-82%



(148 )

763



-119%

Gain on WINN Loan

-



(15 )

-100%



(42 )

(15 )

180%

Loss on financing

-



4



-100%



-



4



-100%

Acquisition related expenses & one-time charges

278



646



-57%



569



924



-38%

Deferred income taxes recovery

(125 )

(54 )

131%



(250 )

(108 )

131% Adjusted EBITDA1 $ 47

$ 1,005



-95%

$ 720

$ 2,162



-67%

The following table provides a reconciliation of variable gross profit to gross profit and variable gross margin to gross margin for the periods ended:

3 mon. ended Jun 30 6 mon. ended Jun 30





2023



2022



+/-



2023



2022



+/- Revenue $ 18,282

$ 5,546



-28%

$ 38,597

$ 51,482



-25%

Variable cost of product

11,602



17,090



-32%



24,304



34,805



-30% Variable gross profit1

6,680



8,456



-21%



14,293



16,677



-14% Variable gross margin %1

36.5%



33.1%







37.0%



32.4%





Fixed factory overhead

2,012



1,708



18%



4,026



3,295



22% Gross profit

4,668



6,748



-31%



10,267



13,382



-23% Gross margin %

25.5%



26.4%







26.6%



26.0%





The following table provides a reconciliation of selling, general and administrative expense excluding acquisition activity and one-time charges:





3 mon. ended Jun 30









6 mon. ended Jun 30









2023



2022



+/-



2023



2022



+/- SG&A Wages $ 2,262

$ 2,304



-2%

$ 4,615

$ 4,390



5%

SG&A Other

1,038



1,454



-29%



2,069



2,704



-23%

Product Development expense

142



196



-28%



308



388



-21%

Acquisition related expenses & one-time charges1

278



646



-57%



569



924



-38%

SG&A

3,720



4,600



-19%



7,561



8,406



-10% SG&A % of revenue

20%



18%







20%



16%



SG&A excluding acquisition activity & one-time charges1

3,442



3,954



-13%



6,992



7,482



-7% SG&A % of revenue excluding acquisition related & one-time charges1

19%



15%







18%



15%



SG&A Wages % of revenues

12%



9%







12%



9%





Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information

This news release contains forward-looking information within the meaning of securities laws including statements related to Company plans and focuses for 2023, the upcoming results conference call and management's outlook for 2023.

By their nature, forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, changes in circumstances and other factors that are difficult to predict and many of which are outside of the Company's control which may cause our actual results, performance or achievements, or other future events, to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements.

Forward-looking information contained in this news release is based on our current estimates, expectations and projections regarding, among other things, future plans and strategies, projections, future market and operating conditions, supply conditions, end customer demand conditions, anticipated events and trends, general market conditions, the economy, financial conditions, sales volume and pricing, expenses and costs, and other future conditions which we believe are reasonable as of the current date. Important factors that could cause actual results and financial conditions to differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to: future capital needs and uncertainty of additional financing, risks relating to general economic, market and business conditions and unforeseen delays in the realization of the Company's plans, risks related to the loss of key manufacturing equipment, capability or facilities, the performance of plant-based materials and the ability of the Company's products and packaging to meet significant technical requirements, changes in raw material supply and costs, labour availability and labour costs, fluctuations in operating results, and other related risks as more fully set out in the Annual Information Form of the Company and other documents disclosed under the Company's filings at www.sedar.com. The reader should not place undue importance on forward-looking information and should not rely upon this information as of any other date.

If relying on the Company's forward-looking statements and information to make decisions, investors and others should carefully consider the foregoing factors and other uncertainties and potential events. The Company has assumed that the material factors referred to herein will not cause such forward-looking statements and information to differ materially from actual results or events. However, there can be no assurance that such assumptions will reflect the actual outcome of such items or factors.

Other than as required under securities laws, we do not undertake to update this information at any particular time.

All forward-looking information contained in this news release is expressly qualified in its entirety by this cautionary statement.



GOOD NATURED PRODUCTS INC.



Consolidated Statements of Financial Position

(In thousands) (Unaudited)





30-Jun



31-Dec



2023



2022













Assets











Current assets:











Cash and cash equivalents $ 13,205

$ 11,860

Trade and other receivables

8,591



9,360

Inventory (note 3)

10,856



12,663

Prepaid expenses

1,062



929



33,714



34,812











Non-current assets:







Property and equipment (note 5)

44,248



44,692

Right-of-use assets (note 6)

4,455



5,001

Customer relationships (note 7)

6,125



6,447

Intangible and other assets (note 7)

4,580



4,523

Goodwill (note 7)

8,920



8,966

$ 102,042

$ 104,441









Liabilities and Shareholders' Equity





Current liabilities:







Accounts payable and accrued liabilities $ 19,096

$ 18,265

Current portion of long-term debt (note 9)

5,443



6,593



24,539



24,858











Non-Current liabilities:







Convertible debentures

16,382



16,079

Mortgages

19,587



19,938

Credit Facility

13,725



13,854

Lease Liability

1,902



2,239

Other long-term debt (note 8)

3,292



3,210

Contingent consideration liability

2,109



2,035

Deferred income tax liabilities

3,028



3,278



60,025



60,633











Shareholders' Equity:







Common share capital

67,175



63,446

Contributed surplus

9,090



7,563

Foreign currency translation reserve

1,644



2,269

Deficit

(60,431 )

(54,328 )



17,478



18,950









Total Liabilities and Shareholders' Equity $ 102,042

$ 104,441

GOOD NATURED PRODUCTS INC.

Consolidated Statements of Net Loss and Comprehensive Loss

(In thousands except per share amounts) (Unaudited)

Three months ended June 30

Six months ended June 30

2023

2022

2023

2022

Product revenue $ 18,282

$ 25,546

$ 38,597

$ 51,482

Cost of product revenue (note 11) (13,614 ) (18,798 ) (28,330 ) (38,100 ) Gross margin 4,668

6,748

10,267

13,382

Other (Expenses) Income:







Selling, general, and administrative







(note 12) (3,720 ) (4,600 ) (7,561 ) (8,406 ) Fulfilment and logistics (1,709 ) (2,244 ) (3,617 ) (4,497 ) Share-based compensation (note 10(b,d)) (394)

(574 ) (797 ) (1,175 ) Depreciation and amortization (613 ) (300 ) (1,240 ) (971 ) Financing costs (1,796 ) (1,318 ) (3,595 ) (2,293 ) Foreign exchange loss (143 ) (789 ) 148

(763 ) Loss on debt repayment and







and conversion -

(4 ) -

(4 ) Gain on interest free loan -

15

42

15 Net loss before taxes (3,707 ) (3,066 ) (6,353 ) (4,712 ) Deferred income tax recovery 125

54

250

108 Net loss for the period (3,582 ) (3,012 ) (6,103 ) (4,604 ) Other comprehensive (loss) gain, net of tax







Items that may be reclassified subsequently to profit or loss:





Unrealized currency gain (loss) on







translation of foreign operations $ (506 ) $ 998

$ (625 ) $ 812 Comprehensive loss







for the period (4,088 ) (2,014 ) (6,728 ) (3,792 ) Basic and diluted loss per share $ (0.02 ) $ (0.01 ) $ (0.03 ) $ (0.02 )







Weighted average shares outstanding -







basic and diluted 246,071

223,151

243,929

222,689



GOOD NATURED PRODUCTS INC.

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flow

(In thousands)





Six months ended June 30



2023



2022













Cash provided by (used in):

























Operations:











Net loss $ (6,103 ) $ (4,604 ) Items not involving cash:







Depreciation and amortization

1,716



1,364

Unrealized foreign exchange (gain) loss

(376 )

472

Amortization of right of use assets

513



414

Share based compensation

797



1,175

Loss on debt repayment and conversion

-



4

Gain on interest free loan

(42 )

(15 ) Gain on equipment disposal

-



(63 ) Financing costs

3,595



2,293

Deferred income tax

(250 )

(107 )



(150 )

933











Changes in non-cash operating working capital:







Trade and other receivables

769



556

Inventory

1,807



493

Prepaid expenses

(133 )

(291 ) Accounts payable and accrued liabilities

831



1,430



3,274



2,188











Finance costs paid

(3,065 )

(1,754 ) Cash provided by operating activities

59



1,367









Financing:







Issuance of common shares and Special Warrants,







net of issuance costs (note 10(a))

4,444



6,093

Exercise of warrants for common shares

-



256

Exercise of options for common shares

15



29

Proceeds from long-term debt, net of issuance costs

2,539



1,191

Repayment of long-term debt

(4,076 )

(1,222 ) Proceeds from equipment sale leaseback

-



1,431 Cash provided by (used in) financing activities

2,922



7,778











Investments:







Proceeds on equipment disposal

-



109

Purchase of equipment

(1,267 )

(3,364 ) Purchase of other assets

(170 )

(60 ) Cash used in investing activities

1,437 )

(3,315 )







Effect of foreign exchange rate changes on cash

(199 )

215







Increase in cash

1,345



6,045







Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period

11,860



10,655







Cash and cash equivalents, end of period

13,205



16,700

1 A non-GAAP financing measure. Please refer to the "Non-GAAP Financial Measures" below for an explanation of these measures and reconciliation to the Company's financial results reported in accordance with GAAP.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/178775
Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - August 29, 2023) - Graph Blockchain Inc.(CSE: GBLC) (OTC Pink: REGRF) (FSE: RT50)("GBLC" or "Graph Blockchain" or the "Company")is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Richard Yoon to its board of directors. With a distinguished career and exceptional expertise in the technology and telecommunications sectors, Mr. Yoon brings a wealth of strategic insights and innovation to further propel the Company towards success.

Mr. Yoon's journey began when he joined ZTE Canada Inc., a telecommunications company in 2015, as the Director of Business Development. His strategic acumen, coupled with a strong team-oriented approach, led to rapid advancements in ZTE Canada's growth. Over time, Mr. Yoon's dedication and visionary leadership led him to become the Chief Executive Officer of ZTE Canada and Redline Communications.

Drawing from his extensive experience, Mr. Yoon has demonstrated an innate ability to drive innovation and achieve results that resonate with the global business arena. Prior to his tenure at ZTE Canada, Mr. Yoon held pivotal roles at renowned original equipment manufacturers such as Huawei and Palm. Furthermore, Mr. Yoon has experience in management roles with TELUS, Bell, and Clearnet underscoring his proficiency in navigating dynamic and competitive market landscapes.

"We are thrilled to welcome Richard Yoon to our board of directors. Mr. Yoon's presence will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in driving the Company to new heights in the business landscape," said Paul Haber Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Company.

About Graph Blockchain

Graph Blockchain provides exposure to various areas of Decentralized Finance (DeFi). Focusing on altcoins through its wholly-owned subsidiaries Babbage Mining Corp., a Proof of Stake ("POS") miner, and Beyond the Moon Inc. an IDO-focused company, Graph gives investors exposure to the vast emerging market of cryptocurrencies with the significant technological disruption and potential gains altcoins represent. Through its strategic acquisitions, Graph is assembling a collection of products and technologies that will lead the DeFi market and offer an unprecedented investment for shareholders.

For additional information on Graph Blockchain and other corporate information, please visit the Company website at www.graphblockchain.com.

For further information, please contact:

Paul Haber, Chief Executive Officer, and Chairman of the Company

Phone: (416) 318- 6501

Email: [email protected]

Forward-Looking Statements

This news release contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of applicable securities laws. All statements contained herein that are not clearly historical in nature may constitute forward-looking statements.

Generally, such forward-looking information or forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "plans", "expects" or "does not expect", "is expected", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates" or "does not anticipate", or "believes", or variations of such words and phrases or may contain statements that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will be taken", "will continue", "will occur" or "will be achieved". Forward-looking information in this news release are based on certain assumptions and expected future events. These statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors, which may cause actual results, performance, or achievements to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such statements, including but not limited to: the potential inability of the Company to continue as a going concern; the risks associated with the blockchain in general. Readers are cautioned that the foregoing list is not exhaustive. Readers are further cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements, as there can be no assurance that the plans, intentions, or expectations upon which they are placed will occur. Such information, although considered reasonable by management at the time of preparation, may prove to be incorrect and actual results may differ materially from those anticipated.

Forward-looking statements contained in this news release are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement and reflect the Company's expectations as of the date hereof and are subject to change thereafter. The Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, estimates or opinions, future events or results, or otherwise or to explain any material difference between subsequent actual events and such forward-looking information, except as required by applicable law.

The CSE does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Market Regulator (as that term is defined in the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

###

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/178920
Chengdu, China--(Newsfile Corp. - August 29, 2023) - GWM made a grand statement at the Chengdu Motor Show, showcasing over 30 models from its five major brands: HAVAL, WEY, ORA, TANK, and GWM Pickup.









A highlight of the event was the debut of three new energy models targeting the Chinese market: HAVAL Menglong, WEY Gaoshan MPV PHEV, and GWM TANK 400 Hi4-T(All named in Chinese market). These innovative vehicles, now available for pre-sale, garnered significant attention.

The GWM was designed to showcase not only the vehicles themselves but also the cutting-edge technology and features that define them. As the next significant addition to the "Dragon Series," Menglong further enhances GWM's dual-line product layout for urban and off-road new energy SUVs. Equipped with the next-generation intelligent cabin system-Coffee OS 2, and Coffee intelligent driving system, it offers passengers an exceptional driving experience and smart connectivity.

Similarly, as the initial MPV within the GWM brand, GWM has integrated not only the Coffee System into it but also the DriveGPT automatic driving cognitive model, enhancing vehicle decision-making intelligence and safety capabilities. By the first half of 2024, the Urban NOH autonomous driving system will be operational in 100 cities, propelling WEY to the forefront of intelligent driving technology.

In addition to GWM's hybrid models, the pure-electric ORA were also showcased at the event. Marking ORA's fifth anniversary & its latest 400,000 production, the 2023 ORA 03 & GT Mulan Edition will grace the stage. As GWM's pure electric brand, ORA embodies the epitome of cutting-edge technology in the pure electric domain.

At the just-concluded BRICS summit, GWM sponsored its new energy vehicle models, the HAVAL H6 HEV and HAVAL JOLION HEV. And it will export more new energy vehicle models overseas in the future. GWM has confirmed a development strategy encompassing hybrids, pure electric vehicles, and hydrogen fuel cells. As the first Chinese automaker to join the Hydrogen Council, GWM actively advances hydrogen technology research and application. Its participation in the International Hydrogen Fuel Cell Association demonstrates a steadfast commitment to sustainable mobility.

With an intelligent tech-driven vision, GWM aims to redefine mobility. The brand's transformative journey, founded on pioneering advancements, is poised to elevate and personalize the mobility experience for all.

About GWM:

Facing the trend of personalized consumption of users, GWM insists on the user-centered concept and practices the development strategy of "Based on category innovation, and brand building through new category creation", and has created five major brands: HAVAL, WEY, ORA, GWM TANK and GWM Pickup.

To contribute to the carbon peak and carbon neutrality goal, GWM has made the construction of future-oriented industrial ecology a top priority. From battery electric technology to hybrid technology, from perovskite to hydrogen energy, GWM has been one of the companies with the widest layout in China's new energy industry chain.

https://www.gwm-global.com/

CONTACT INFORMATION:

Tyler Qian

Great Wall Motor Company Limited

Baoding, Hebei Province

Website: www.gwm-global.com

Email: [email protected]

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/178813
Houston, Texas--(Newsfile Corp. - August 29, 2023) - Jeremy McGilvery, a Harvard graduate and prominent Houston-based web designer has celebrated yet another remarkable achievement in his career as his Upwork account surpassed the astounding $1,000,000 mark in revenue.

As a leader in the web design, this monumental accomplishment solidifies McGilvery's position as one of the top freelancers on the Upwork platform, renowned for his expert ability in crafting conversion-focused websites and tightly engineering sales funnels.





Jeremy McGilvery's Upwork Account Surpasses $1,000,000 In Revenue



To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/8843/178595_c480b148647ce945_001full.jpg

Jeremy McGilvery, a Harvard-educated website developer and designer has consistently demonstrated his prowess and dedication on one of the world's most popular freelancing platforms, Upwork, offering his high-quality web design and sales funnel expertise to clients around the globe.

With the prestigious title of Expert-Vetted, an accolade awarded to only the top 1% of freelancers, McGilvery's latest milestone reflects his unwavering commitment to excellence and unsurpassed skills in website development and sales funnel creation.

His impressive portfolio includes award-winning sales funnels, website designs, and an ever-growing roster of satisfied, repeat clients. As a ClickFunnels certified expert since 2015, McGilvery's remarkable achievements have not gone unnoticed. He has been honored with four Two Comma Club awards from ClickFunnels, co-authored a chapter of a book with ClickFunnels co-founder Russell Brunson, and consistently lends his insights to esteemed publications such as Forbes, Inc., and The Huffington Post.

"I am immensely proud to have surpassed the $1,000,000 revenue mark on Upwork," said McGilvery. "My focus has always been on providing tightly engineered web pages and sales funnels that transform clicks into customers. The success of my clients is my top priority, and this milestone speaks volumes about the trust my clients place in the services I provide. As I continue to strive towards greater success, I look forward to helping even more clients grow their businesses with meticulously crafted, visually stunning, revenue-boosting websites and sales funnels."

McGilvery's success on Upwork is a testament to his relentless pursuit of perfection in web design and development. His remarkable ability to understand how users interact with websites is a significant factor contributing to his success. By spending countless hours analyzing screen recordings and user behavior, he has amassed a wealth of knowledge that allows him to design highly optimized, visually compelling pages that engage and convert visitors.

In addition, Jeremy McGilvery's client-centric approach and assurance of quality underscore his confidence in delivering exceptional results. If a client is not completely satisfied with their website or sales funnel, McGilvery goes above and beyond by offering a full refund of their investment. This unparalleled commitment to client satisfaction further solidifies his position as a leader in the field of web design and development.

As he continues to reach new heights in his career, Jeremy McGilvery serves as a shining example for aspiring web designers and developers. His relentless drive, exceptional skills, and client-focused approach have earned him a stellar reputation in the industry, and his continued success serves as a beacon for those seeking to achieve excellence in the field of web design and development. As he sets his sights on even greater milestones, McGilvery remains committed to delivering outstanding results to his clients, transforming their online presence, and boosting their revenue with meticulously crafted, high-converting websites and sales funnels.

For further information on Jeremy McGilvery's services and accomplishments, please visit: https://www.jeremymcgilvrey.com.

Media Contact:

Contact: Jeremy McGilvrey

Address: 1 Riverway Ste. 1724, Houston, TX 77056

Phone: (800) 746-1522

Email: [email protected]

Website/URL: https://www.jeremymcgilvrey.com

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/178595
Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - August 29, 2023) - Meta Trading Club (MTC), a leading trading and investing education platform, has launched its groundbreaking new MTC Incubator program. This 4-week live comprehensive program redefines trading and investing education, empowering traders and investors with the insights, skills, and tools they need to navigate today's fast-paced financial markets.

Recognizing the ever-changing method of trading and investing, MTC's latest product, the MTC Incubator Program, is designed to meet the needs of both novice and seasoned traders and investors. This innovative program consists of live masterminds, webinars, live market analysis, trade ideas, and trading tools, representing MTC's commitment to fostering an environment where education meets real-world application.

"We envision the MTC Incubator Program as a catalyst, transforming how people perceive and engage with trading and investing education," said Shahryar Rahmani, the founder of Meta Trading Club. "Our program is meticulously designed to bridge that gap in a world where information is abundant but true wisdom is scarce. It's not just about theory; it's about actionable insights that students can apply directly to the markets."

The MTC Incubator Program is unique, designed with a blend of live masterminds, where students can engage with experts in real-time, and webinars provide deeper dives into essential trading and investing concepts. Additionally, the program includes live market analysis sessions where participants can see, in real-time, how experts read and respond to market conditions, along with valuable trade ideas and a suite of advanced trading tools. This is learning made actionable and accessible, tailored for today's trader.

Since its inception, Meta Trading Club has been dedicated to providing a top-tier learning experience, engaging students from diverse backgrounds and experience levels. The launch of the MTC Incubator Program marks the expansion of the company's educational offerings and the solidification of its mission to empower traders and investors through unparalleled educational resources.

"We have carefully crafted this program to deliver an impactful, effective learning journey for our students," Rahmani adds. "At Meta Trading Club, we're not just teaching trading and investing; we're nurturing a community of informed, confident, and capable traders and investors."

The MTC Incubator Program is now open for enrollment, welcoming traders and investors ready to advance their skills and knowledge.

About Meta Trading Club:

MTC is a Toronto-based trading and investing educational platform founded in November 2021 by Shahryar Rahmani. Through various educational offerings, including the new MTC Incubator Program, Meta Trading Club is committed to elevating the standards of trading and investing education and cultivating a community of informed and empowered participants in the financial markets.

Media Contact:

Shahryar Rahmani

[email protected]

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/178808
Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - August 29, 2023) - NV Gold Corp (TSXV: NVX) is pleased to announce that the company is presenting a live virtual corporate update hosted by Red Cloud Financial Services on September 6th, 2023 at 2:00 PM ET.

We invite our shareholders, and all interested parties to register for the webinar and participate in the live Q&A session at the end of the presentation moderated by Red Cloud.

The replay will be emailed out to all webinar registrants proceeding the event and will also be available on the Red Cloud website.

For more information and to register: redcloudwebinars.

Presentation providing updates on recent drilling at Triple T Project.

Commodities to be covered: Gold

About NV Gold Corp

Nevada gold explorer and project generator.

About Red Cloud Securities Inc.

Red Cloud Securities Inc. is an IIROC-regulated investment dealer focused on providing a full range of brokerage services to all investor types focused in the junior resource sector. Our services include Investment Banking, Research, Institutional and Retail Trading, Institutional Sales, and Retail Investment Advisory services.

About Red Cloud Financial Services Inc.

Red Cloud Financial Services Inc. is a globally focused capital markets advisory firm that provides a full range of executive strategy, media, marketing, and corporate access services. Our breadth of services combines with our significant knowledge of the junior mining industry combine for unique product offering. The company was founded by capital markets professionals with extensive experience in the junior mining industry.

For further information:

NV Gold Corp

John Watson CEO

604.245.0054

[email protected]

For additional information contact [email protected] or visit:

www.redcloudfs.com

www.facebook.com/RedCloudFinancialServices

www.twitter.com/RedCloudFS

www.linkedin.com/company/red-cloud-financial-services-inc

www.youtube.com/c/RedCloudFinancialServicesInc

www.instagram.com/redcloudfs
In the mid-1970s, the famous Egyptian journalist Mohamed Hassanein Heikal used the term the Saudi era to refer to the status Riyadh had acquired in the Middle East.

A range of factors had contributed to that status, not least the realisation that oil was a crucial commodity in the modern world, indispensable to civilian and military industries.

The Gulf is the major oil producing centre at the heart of which is Saudi Arabia whose vast reserves will last for decades. OPEC was built around this idea to manage the supply and demand of this major commodity. OAPEC, the Arabic version of OPEC, made its mark through the deployment of the oil weapon in the October 1973 War, when oil joined forces with Arab blood in an epic battle that led the world to predict the birth of an Arab pole in the international order.

Although that did not come about then, the world did bear witness to the birth of a new Middle East, especially now that oil prices and revenues had become an integral part of the global economy. The Saudi era expressed the growing influence and importance of this region at a time when much of international attention was focused on East Asia and the war in Vietnam. The Saudi moment, while different in many respects, is an extension of the aforementioned concept.

Political science professor Abdulkhaleq Abdulla has spoken and written frequently about his book The Gulf Moment, which is a tribute to the progress achieved by the Arab Gulf states as economic powers, with a special focus on the UAE.

Both concepts involved a comparison with other Arab countries that had preceded the Gulf in modernisation, especially Egypt, Iraq, Syria and Lebanon which had represented the Arabs and Arabism up to then.

The moment is thus defined as a form of problem-solving epiphany of the sort that abounds in works of art. In Western history, the Enlightenment delivered Europe from the scourge of ignorance and the tyranny of the church through the ascendency of reason, science and logic. Something of the sort is taking place here.

Saudi Arabia has always had a special place in the Arab and Islamic worlds in its capacity as the Custodian of the Holy Cities of Mecca and Medina. Because of international developments since the 1970s, oil has augmented the influence of this endowment.

However, even then the Kingdoms extreme conservatism and insularism kept it mired in political and social stagnation. Its religious leadership produced generation after generation of Arab and Muslim followers who took their cue from its hard-line conservatism. But in the past ten years, the stagnant waters have begun to flow.

Perhaps the process began before this, when King Abdul-Aziz Al-Saud assumed power and began to send large numbers of Saudi citizens on educational missions in developed nations. It had much the same effect as Egyptian educational missions abroad in the 19th century: it generated a paradigmatic shift.

In Saudi Arabia, the moment of enlightenment occurred in 2015 when King Salman bin Abdul-Aziz Al-Saud assumed the throne with Crown Prince Mohamed bin Salman at his side. Today, eight years later, Saudi Arabia is firmly in a new historical phase, and it is taking the Arab region with it to new horizons of progress.

Modernity is the key to the Saudi moment. By definition this entails four qualitative shifts. The first is in identity, which has become more open and inclusive. The second involves expanding the developmental vision across the entire territory of the state.

The third is to mobilise all available resources of the state to increase productivity and the countrys share in the global market. The fourth is to engage as many citizens as possible in the processes of social and economic change. These four shifts are dimensions of the process of modernisation and reform, not unlike that which occurred in post-medieval Europe.

It is no coincidence that MBS, in many interviews in the press, has said that Saudi Arabia and its fellow reformers in the Arab region are creating a new Europe in this part of the world.

The transformations in modern Saudi identity can be subsumed under the heading of the nation-state. It is a concept broad and deep enough to encompass the countrys entire history dating to prehistoric times. When Islam came to Saudi Arabia it did not find a civilisational void. Archaeological discoveries and other historical evidence testify to a wealth of ancient kingdoms and monuments.

The developmental penetration of the state may have set a historic record. Within the space of a few years, countless miles of road have been built and airports and seaports opened; a high-speed rail now spans the peninsula from east to west and north to south.

In that area of two million square kilometres, from the coasts of the Red Sea and Gulf of Aqaba to the shores of the Gulf, diversification of sources of income is no longer a slogan; it is a concrete reality that has catapulted Saudi Arabia to the fore in the Arab region in industry, tourism and even desert agriculture.

Young, educated Saudis, both men and women, and Sunnis, Shiites or affiliates of other faiths, are taking part in this renovation process that includes a revolutionary renewal in religious thought which acknowledges the value of the gifts of intellect and free will that God bestowed on humankind.

Those young and dynamic energies are filled with the ambition to build and the desire to work together with their fellow human beings towards the advancement of the common human experience. The Saudi moment is not just about Saudi Arabia; it is also about the Arab region and the world at large.

* A version of this article appears in print in the 31 August, 2023 edition of Al-Ahram Weekly

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OPPO Find N3 Flip launched in China, coming soon to global markets

Find N3 Flip to set a higher standard for flip phones

Shanghai, China--(Newsfile Corp. - August 29, 2023) - OPPO, the world's leading smart device brand has announced a new gold standard for flip phones, with full details of Find N3 Flip's availability and highlights to be revealed at OPPO's upcoming global launch event.

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/7958/178821_figure1.jpg

"For Find N2 Flip, we created the best flip phone possible, and now Find N2 Flip is the number one foldable in China. We couldn't be more proud. For Find N3 Flip, we're bringing upgrades across the board - elevated styling, an improved cover screen experience, and a game-changing flip phone camera - simply put, expect the exquisite from Find N3 Flip."

Pete Lau, SVP and Chief Product Officer at OPPO.

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/7958/178821_figure2.jpg

Finally, the wait for a flip phone with a flagship camera system is over. Overhauled and upgraded, Find N3 Flip breaks through size and space limitations, combining world-class hardware, OPPO's powerful imaging engine, and iconic Hasselblad experiences.

Upgraded with a more intuitive and powerful cover screen, refined, elegant styling, long-lasting battery life, and so much more, Find N3 Flip rewrites the flip phone rulebook, cutting back on compromises, not camera performance.

Stay tuned to find out more about OPPO's next-gen foldable at the upcoming global launch.

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

About OPPO

OPPO is a leading global smart device brand. Since the launch of its first mobile phone - "Smiley Face" - in 2008, OPPO has been in relentless pursuit of the perfect synergy of aesthetic satisfaction and innovative technology. Today, OPPO provides a wide range of smart devices spearheaded by the Find X and Reno series. Beyond devices, OPPO also provides its users with ColorOS operating system and internet services such as OPPO Cloud and OPPO+. OPPO has footprints in more than 60 countries and regions, with more than 40,000 employees dedicated to creating a better life for customers around the world.

Media Contact:

[email protected]

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/178821
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - August 29, 2023) - Parvis Invest Inc. (TSXV: PVIS) ("Parvis" or "the Company''), a technology-driven real estate company, announces that Kia Besharat has resigned as a director of the Company effective August 28, 2023, and the board has accepted his resignation. Mr. Besharat will pursue other opportunities.

As per the Notice of Annual General Meeting of July 26, 2023, Kia Besharat was not nominated for reelection to the board of directors for the ensuing year at the Company's annual general meeting of shareholders to be held on August 31, 2023.

About Parvis

Parvis is a technology-driven real estate investing platform. Focused on broadening access to institutional quality real estate investment opportunities, Parvis promotes greater access in this historically inaccessible and illiquid asset class. Enabled by blockchain technology, Parvis makes finding, tracking, and maximizing investments an experience that is both frictionless and empowering. Parvis Fintech Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Parvis, is registered as an Exempt Market Dealer in all Canadian Provinces. Parvis, headquartered in Vancouver, employs experts in Toronto, Vancouver, Kelowna and Montreal. Additional information about Parvis is available at www.parvisinvest.comand on SEDAR at www.sedarplus.ca.

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information

This press release of Parvis contains statements that constitute "forward-looking statements." Such forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause Parvis' actual results, performance or achievements, or developments in the industry to differ materially from the anticipated results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Actual results may vary from the forward-looking information in this news release due to certain material risk factors. This news release is not intended for distribution to U.S. news services or for dissemination in the United States.

SOURCE Parvis Invest Inc.

For further information, please contact:

David Michaud, CEO, Parvis Invest Inc.

Email: [email protected]

Tel:1-844-487-4866

For media inquiries, please contact:

Claudia Labelle, August Strategy Inc.

Email:[email protected]

Follow us on social media:

Instagram: @ParvisInvest

Facebook: ParvisInvest

LinkedIn: Parvis

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/178900
All figures in Canadian dollars ($) unless otherwise specified

Toronto, Ontario and Rionegro, Colombia--(Newsfile Corp. - August 29, 2023) - PharmaCielo Ltd. (TSXV: PCLO) (OTCQX: PCLOF) ("PharmaCielo" or the "Company"), the Canadian parent of Colombia's premier cultivator and producer of dried flower and medicinal-grade cannabis extracts, PharmaCielo Colombia Holdings S.A.S., today announced financial results for the second quarter ended June 30, 2023.

Management Commentary

Marc Lustig, Chairman and CEO of PharmaCielo commented, "Our sales and finance teams have made measurable progress and I expect these efforts to continue to pay off over the next several quarters. From a sales perspective, we are getting more opportunities with large global customers than ever before, as weaker players exit the marketplace or fail to deliver on the quality and consistency required by these institutional-caliber entities. Alongside these steady initiatives to drive the top line, our finance team has delivered on our targeted 25% reduction in ongoing overhead expenses ahead of budget and with no meaningful impact to our ability to execute on existing contracts and go out and win new ones. As one of the largest single investors in this company, I strongly believe that the initiatives we have underway will result in meaningful growth in the top line, and with all material capex behind us, will translate into cash flow and growth in shareholder value."

Summary Financials





Three months ended (000's)

Jun 30 2023



Jun 30 2022 Revenue $ 160

$ 2,119

Adjusted EBITDA (Loss) $ (2,119 ) $ (1,823 ) Net Loss $ (3,585 ) $ (3,517 ) Net Loss per Share $ (0.02 ) $ (0.02 )

For further detailed information and analysis, please see the financial statements and management's discussion and analysis for the period ending June 30, 2023, as posted at sedarplus.ca and pharmacielo.com

Summary of Recent Developments

On July 11, 2023, PharmaCielo announced that Marc Lustig had been appointed Chairman and CEO of the Company. Mr. Lustig has a proven history of value creation across the cannabis, capital markets and health sciences sectors.

As announced in the Company's August 10, 2023 news release, PharmaCielo's sales team continues to make progress with new and existing customers. Notable upcoming catalysts include: The Company's first shipment to its third Brazilian customer, expected to take place during Q4 2023, and ongoing shipments of THC-dominant dried flower to a customer in Germany.

The Company is on track to achieve its objective of operating efficiently with a specific goal of lowering overhead expenses by 25% compared to 2022 levels. In Q1 2023, overhead expenses were 20% below the prior year period and in Q2 2023, overhead expenses were 25% below the prior year period. As a result of the efforts of the management to right-size the company the number of employees is now 132 from a high of 450 in 2021, and 331 at the end of 2022, with no meaningful impact on PharmaCielo's ability to execute on existing and new contracts.

The Company defines overhead expenses as: consulting fees, office & general expenses, professional fees, salaries and wages, and travel and accommodation expenses.

Non-Brokered Private Placement of Debenture Units:

In 2023, Year-to-date, the Company raised $3,280,000, as part of its previously announced non-brokered private placements (the "Offering" and "New Offering"), consisting of an aggregate of 3,280 debenture units (each a "Unit"). The Units were issued at a price of $1,000 per Unit for aggregate proceeds of $3,280,000. To date, since its announcement of the Offering, the Company has raised $14,075,000 principal amount of Units. As disclosed in the Company's news release dated June 29, 2023, the Company intends to use the proceeds from the sale of the units for operations, working capital, and the build-out of its international sales program.

About PharmaCielo

PharmaCielo Ltd. (TSXV: PCLO) (OTCQX: PCLOF) is a global company, headquartered in Canada, with a focus on ethical and sustainable cultivating, processing and supply of all natural, pharmaceutical-grade medical dried cannabis flower and cannabis products to large channel distributors. PharmaCielo's principal (and wholly owned) subsidiary is PharmaCielo Colombia Holdings S.A.S., headquartered at its cultivation and processing center located in Rionegro, Colombia.

The board of directors and executive team of PharmaCielo are comprised of a diversely talented group of international business executives and specialists with relevant and varied expertise. PharmaCielo recognized the significant role that Colombia's ideal location plays in building a sustainable business in the medical cannabis industry, and the Company, together with its directors and executives, is executing on a business plan focused on supplying the international marketplace.

For further information

Ian Atacan, Chief Financial Officer

+1 416-562-3220

[email protected]

Media and Investor Inquires:

[email protected]

Forward-Looking Statements

This news release contains forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of words such as "expects", "is expected", "intends", "anticipates", "believes", or variations of such words and phrases or state that certain actions, events or results "may" or "will" be taken, occur or be completed or achieved. Forward-looking statements in this news release include, without limitation, statements regarding the issuance of the debenture units, including the timing and completion of any future issuances thereof.

The forward-looking statements in this news release are necessarily based on assumptions, including assumptions with respect to PharmaCielo's ability to obtain necessary approvals for the issuance of the debenture units.

Forward-looking statements can be affected by known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, including changes to PharmaCielo's development plans, the failure to obtain and maintain all necessary regulatory approvals relating to the export of cannabinoid products and the import of these products into other countries, TSX Venture Exchange approval, the inability to export or distribute commercial products through sales channels as anticipated due to economic or operational circumstances, risks associated with operating in Colombia, fluctuation of the market price for the Company's products, risks associated with global economic instability relating to COVID-19 or other developments, risks related to retention of key Company personnel, currency exchange risk, competition in PharmaCielo's market and other risks discussed or referred to under the heading "Risk Factors" in PharmaCielo's Annual Information Form for the financial year ended December 31, 2019, which is available at www.sedar.com. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Except as required by law, PharmaCielo undertakes no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this press release.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/178805
Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - August 29, 2023) - Resouro Gold Inc. (TSXV: RAU) (FSE: BU9) ("Resouro" or the "Company") is that on August 29, 2023 (the "Closing Date") it closed a brokered private placement offering (the "Offering") of 10,107,403 common shares in the capital of the Company ("Common Shares") at a price of $0.28 per Common Share for aggregate gross proceeds of $2,830,000. The Company is pleased to welcome Regal Funds Management as a cornerstone shareholder to the register and would like to thank existing shareholders, prominent institutional and family office resources focused investors, for their continued support for Resouro.

The Offering represents an 87% premium to Resouro's last capital raising at $0.15 per Common Share in June 2023. The Common Shares issued in connection with the Offering are subject to a statutory hold period of four months.

President/CEO and major shareholder of Resouro, Chris Eager, commented:

"We are extremely pleased to welcome additional investment from three high caliber mining investment funds into Resouro. This is a great endorsement of the Tiros project and the work our team is doing on the ground in Brazil to drive shareholder value. The additional capital raised will be put to good use to increase the proposed drill and metallurgical test-work program to build value at the Tiros Rare Earths and Titanium Project. We look forward to continually updating the market as results materialize."

The Offering was led by Taylor Collison Limited (the "Agent"), which acted as agent for the Offering. As compensation for its services, the Agent received a capital raising fee equal to 6.0% of the aggregate gross proceeds of the Offering (the "Capital Raising Fee"), payable in cash.

The Company intends to use net proceeds from the Offering to advance exploration on the Company's Tiros Titanium-REE Project and Novo Mundo Gold Project in Brazil and for general working capital purposes.

Resouro to pursue secondary listing on the Australian Securities Exchange ("ASX") .

Resouro is also pleased to announced it intends to pursue a secondary listing on the Australian Securities Exchange ("ASX"). The ASX dual listing will complement Resouro's current TSX-V (Canadian) and FSE (Frankfurt) listings and will allow the Company to better service the large Australian investor base currently supporting Resouro.

The Company has engaged law firm Thomson Geer, lead manager Taylor Collison and Australian Company Director Justin Clyne as Australian representatives to assist Resouro in navigating the application process. Resouro is targeting a listing by the end of 2023, subject to market conditions and being able to satisfy the appropriate ASX listing requirements.

Shareholders are advised that there is no certainty, or guarantee, that the ASX listing will occur and there is a risk that the ASX may determine that the Company is not an entity suitable for listing on the ASX or the Company may not be able to comply with the requirements and/or satisfy the conditions imposed by the ASX.

Resouro CEO, Chris Eager, commented;

"Through the last two capital raisings we have found that investors in Australia have demonstrated a deep understanding of the rare earths market and the large scale and quality of Resouro's Tiros Project. After completion of the latest capital raising Resouro now has a very strong share register including specialist mining funds and prominent mining investors in Australia. In addition, we believe that the ASX has an active retail investor base that has a strong following in the small resources sector. To this end, we believe a listing on the ASX would greatly assist in building shareholder value through increased market exposure and trading liquidity. Resouro will continue to update the market in respect of its secondary listing."

About Resouro Gold Inc.

Resouro is a Canadian-based mineral exploration and development company focused on the discovery and advancement of economic mineral projects in Brazil, including the Tiros Titanium-REE Project in Minas Gerais and the Novo Mundo Gold Project in Mato Grosso. Learn more about the Company on its website: https://resouro.com.

On behalf of the Board of Directors,

Chris Eager, President & CEO

RESOURO GOLD INC.

For further information, please contact the Company at:

Chris Eager, CEO For Investor inquiries

[email protected] [email protected]

416-642-1807

Disclaimer

This news release contains certain "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities law. Forward-looking information is frequently characterized by words such as "plan", "expect", "project", "intend", "believe", "anticipate", "estimate" and other similar words, or statements that certain events or conditions "may" or "will" occur. In particular, forward-looking information in this press release includes, but is not limited to, statements with respect to the completion of the titanium- REE project acquisition and the intended use of the proceeds from the Offering. Although we believe that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking information are reasonable, there can be no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. We cannot guarantee future results, performance or achievements. Consequently, there is no representation that the actual results achieved will be the same, in whole or in part, as those set out in the forward-looking information.

Forward-looking information is based on the opinions and estimates of management at the date the statements are made and are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those anticipated in the forward-looking information. Some of the risks and other factors that could cause the results to differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking information include, but are not limited to: general economic conditions in Canada and globally; industry conditions, including governmental regulation and environmental regulation; failure to obtain industry partner and other third party consents and approvals, if and when required, including obtaining final acceptance from of the TSXV; the availability of capital on acceptable terms; the need to obtain required approvals from regulatory authorities; stock market volatility; liabilities inherent in the mining industry; competition for, among other things, skilled personnel and supplies; incorrect assessments of the value of acquisitions; geological, technical, processing and transportation problems; changes in tax laws and incentive programs; failure to realize the anticipated benefits of acquisitions and dispositions; and the other factors. Readers are cautioned that this list of risk factors should not be construed as exhaustive.

The forward-looking information contained in this news release is expressly qualified by this cautionary statement. We undertake no duty to update any of the forward-looking information to conform such information to actual results or to changes in our expectations except as otherwise required by applicable securities legislation. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking information.

The TSX Venture Exchange has neither approved nor disapproved the contents of this press release.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Not for distribution to U.S. Newswire Services or for dissemination in the United States. Any failure to comply with this restriction may constitute a violation of U.S. Securities Laws.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/178832
Washington, D.C.--(Newsfile Corp. - August 29, 2023) - The Securities and Exchange Commission today announced settled cease-and-desist proceedings against broker-dealer Citigroup Global Markets Inc. (CGMI) for willfully violating recordkeeping requirements concerning expenses that the firm incurred in connection with its underwriting business.

Recordkeeping requirements of the federal securities laws require broker-dealers to make and keep current certain books and records, including ledgers or other records reflecting all assets and liabilities. The SECs order finds that, from at least 2009 through May 2019, CGMI used an unsubstantiated and unverified method to calculate and record indirect expenses associated with its work as an underwriter. According to the SECs order, CGMI calculated an indirect expense amount based on a fixed percentage of the underwriting fee for each deal where it was engaged as a lead underwriter and then, using fixed allocation grids, divided that amount into specific categories of expenses. The order finds that, upon calculating these indirect expenses through this unsubstantiated method, CGMI recorded the amounts in its general ledger. According to the order, for at least a decade, CGMI did not know the basis of this indirect expense calculation method and conducted no review or similar process to verify that this method was reasonable.

Underwriters serve a critical role as gatekeepers in securities offerings. They perform essential functions, including investor protection and also helping companies access capital to grow and innovate, said Sanjay Wadhwa, Deputy Director of the SECs Division of Enforcement. Recordkeeping failures such as these, perpetuated over at least a decade, can undermine the viability of those functions. The SEC will continue to vigorously enforce the books and records provisions of the federal securities laws, which are crucial to well-functioning markets.

The SECs order charges CGMI with violating Section 17(a) of the Exchange Act and Rule 17a-3 thereunder. Without admitting or denying the SECs findings, CGMI consented to a cease-and-desist order, a censure, and a civil penalty of $2.9 million.

The SECs investigation was conducted by Chevon Walker, Mala Bartucci, and Lindsay Moilanen of the New York Regional Office, and the SEC Enforcement Divisions Market Abuse Unit, with assistance from the New York Regional Office Broker-Dealer and Exchange Examination Program. It was supervised by Joseph Sansone.
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - August 29, 2023) - Spanish Mountain Gold Ltd. (TSXV: SPA) (the "Company" or "Spanish Mountain Gold") announces the retirement of Mr. Donald Coxe and the resignation of Mr. Larry Yau from the Board of Directors.

Brent Bergeron, Spanish Mountain Gold's Chair, states, "It is with tremendous appreciation that we announce the retirement of Don Coxe from the Board of Directors of Spanish Mountain Gold. Don has been an important member of the board for many years and has contributed greatly to the mining and other industries over his forty-year career of institutional investment experience in North America. Most recently, Don was instrumental in working through the recruitment and establishment of new directors and management at Spanish Mountain Gold. He leaves us with the team in place that will lead the Company to its next level of development. On behalf of everyone at Spanish Mountain Gold, I would like to thank Don for his enormous contribution and wish him well in retirement."

Mr. Bergeron continues, "We thank Larry Yau for his contributions as former CEO and board member and wish him all the best as he pursues other interests."

About Spanish Mountain Gold Ltd.

Spanish Mountain Gold is focused on advancing its 100%-owned Spanish Mountain Gold Project in southern central British Columbia. The Company is focused on trade-off assessments to determine the targeted optimal production to advance its multimillion-ounce gold resource towards a construction decision. The 2021 Pre-Feasibility Study demonstrated the Project's potential to be a mining operation with a production profile of greater than 150,000 gold ounces per year and low All-in-Sustaining Cost (AISC) of $801 per ounce over a 14-year mine life. Details on the Company are available on www.sedarplus.ca and on the Company's website: www.spanishmountaingold.com.

On Behalf of the Board,

"Peter Mah"

President, Chief Executive Officer and Director

Spanish Mountain Gold Ltd.

For more information, contact:

Investor Relations

(604) 601-3651

[email protected]

www.spanishmountaingold.com

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS:

Certain of the statements and information in this press release constitute "forward-looking statements" or "forward-looking information" Any statements or information that express or involve discussions with respect to predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions or future events or performance (often, but not always, using words or phrases such as "expects", "anticipates", "believes", "plans", "estimates", "intends", "targets", "goals", "forecasts", "objectives", "potential" or variations thereof or stating that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will" be taken, occur or be achieved, or the negative of any of these terms and similar expressions) are not statements of historical fact and may be forward-looking statements or information. The Company's forward-looking statements and information are based on the assumptions, beliefs, expectations and opinions of management as of the date of this press release, and other than as required by applicable securities laws, the Company does not assume any obligation to update forward-looking statements and information if circumstances or management's assumptions, beliefs, expectations or opinions should change, or changes in any other events affecting such statements or information. For the reasons set forth above, investors should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements and information.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/178937
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - August 29, 2023) - TEAKO MINERALS CORP. (CSE: TMIN) (the "Company" or "Teako") is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Liam Hardy and Mr. Owen Garfield to the board of directors of the Company.

Additionally, the Company announces that Mr. Scott Young has resigned as a director of Teako Minerals. The Company wishes to thank him for his tenure and service, and success in his future endeavours.

Mr. Liam Hardy has a family background in mineral exploration, along with a degree in geology from the University of Brighton in the UK. He brings a mix of ore-hunting and corporate development experience to the team, having worked as a geochemical analyst and as an exploration geologist in West Africa, before focusing on streamlining communications in exploration businesses through the founding of 'Spotlight Mining', while also developing several international mineral exploration ventures. Liam is CEO of the private European base metals developer, Ekometall Exploration, who hold Austria's largest copper exploration licences and are active in the field testing past-producing mines for economic viability.

Mr. Owen Garfield is a Chartered Mineral Surveyor based in the UK who worked as a specialist mineral valuer for over 10 years at the Valuation Office Agency. Owen has also worked as a Mineral Estates Surveyor for Tilcon which was subsequently merged with Tarmac, part of the CRH Company, where he was a mineral planner. He holds a BSc degree in Mineral Estates Management from Sheffield Hallam University. He is currently the Managing Director and owner of a surveying company in the UK. Additionally, Mr. Owen Garfield is a Director of EGR Exploration Ltd.

Sven Gollan, Chief Executive Officer of Teako Minerals, comments, "We're thrilled to welcome Liam and Owen to our board of directors. Liam's impressive geological expertise, extensive network, and experience in international corporate development will undoubtedly bring invaluable insights to our team. His insight into sustainable ways of doing exploration and his focused approach on Europe aligns perfectly with our growth strategy, enhancing our potential in that region. Owen's understanding of mineral planning requirements for successful mineral development is a tremendous asset. Owen's knowledge will play a pivotal role in both screening and assessing existing and future projects. With Liam and Owen on board, the Company is well-equipped to navigate the industry's complexities and further elevate Teako's standing in the market."

About Teako Minerals Corp.:

Teako Minerals Corp. is a Vancouver-based mineral exploration company committed to acquiring, exploring, and developing mineral properties in Canada, Norway & Finland exploring for Copper Cobalt & Gold. The adoption of advanced technologies such as the SCS Exploration Product aligns with its strategy to remain at the forefront of the rapidly evolving mining industry.

ON BEHALF OF TEAKO MINERALS CORP.

"Sven Gollan"

CEO

T: +43 5522 500429

Email: [email protected]

Forward-Looking Information:

This press release may include forward-looking information within the meaning of Canadian securities legislation, concerning the business of Teako. Forward-looking information is based on certain key expectations and assumptions made by the management of Teako. In some cases, you can identify forward-looking statements by the use of words such as "will," "may," "would," "expect," "intend," "plan," "seek," "anticipate," "believe," "estimate," "predict," "potential," "continue," "likely," "could" and variations of these terms and similar expressions, or the negative of these terms or similar expressions. Forward-looking statements in this press release include: (a) Liam's geological expertise, extensive network, and experience in international corporate development will undoubtedly bring invaluable insights to the team at Teako, and (b) Owen's knowledge will play a pivotal role in both screening and assessing existing and future projects. Although Teako believes that the expectations and assumptions on which such forward-looking information is based are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on the forward-looking information because Teako can give no assurance that they will prove to be correct. Since forward-looking statements address future events and conditions, by their very nature they involve inherent risks and uncertainties. Actual results could differ materially from those currently anticipated due to a number of factors and risks. These include, but are not limited to, risks associated with the mineral exploration industry in general (e.g., operational risks in development, exploration and production; the uncertainty of mineral resource estimates; the uncertainty of estimates and projections relating to production, costs and expenses, and health, safety and environmental risks), constraint in the availability of services, commodity price and exchange rate fluctuations, changes in legislation impacting the mining industry, adverse weather conditions and uncertainties resulting from potential delays or changes in plans with respect to exploration or development projects or capital expenditures. These and other risks are set out in more detail in Teako's interim Management's Discussion and Analysis dated April 30, 2023.

The Canadian Securities Exchange (CSE) has not reviewed and does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or the accuracy of the contents of this release.

Not for dissemination in the United States or through U.S. newswires

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/178815
Changchun, China--(Newsfile Corp. - August 29, 2023) - On the evening of August 28, the 18th China Changchun Film Festival (CCFF), sponsored by the Jilin Provincial People's Government and China Central Radio and Television (CCTV), and undertaken by the Changchun Municipal People's Government, kicked off, and 15 films, including Full River Red and Wandering Earth II, were shortlisted for the "Golden Deer Award".

The 18th China Changchun Film Festival (CCFF) Opens



To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

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CCFF, the first film festival named after a city in China and the film festival with the highest latitude in China, was founded in 1992. A total of 17 festivals were held in 31 years, with the scale effect expanding continuously and the brand value increasing. CCFF has grown into a grand cultural occasion renowned both at home and abroad, which has become the brightest city "name card" and "gold-lettered signboard" of Changchun, Jilin.

This year's festival was chaired by renowned director, screenwriter and producer Huang Jianxin, with director Zheng Dasheng, cinematographer Zhao Fei, actress Yu Nan, actor Zhu Yawen, screenwriter Guo Junli, and musician Shunan on the judging panel. The "Golden Deer Award" has set up 10 awards, including the Best Picture Award, the Judging Panel Award, the Best Director Award, the Best Actor Award, the Best Actress Award, the Best Screenwriter Award, the Best Cinematographer Award, the Best Music Award, the Best Film Editing Award, and the Best Debut Film Award.

This year's "Golden Deer Award" received a total of 182 film applications, with 75 films for the award competition and 107 films for exhibition, a total increase of 150% over the number of films collected in the previous year. Among them, the shortlisted films include the comedies Full River Red, One and Only, and Table for Six, sci-fi fantasy films Wandering Earth II, Creation of Gods I, and Cha A Er Zhong, war themed films Home Coming, Hidden Blade, and Born to Fly, suspense and crime films Lost in the Stars, The Procurator, and No More Bets, and inspirational films Ping Pong: The Triumph, Never Say Never, and In the Search of Lost Time.

It is worth mentioning that this year's festival has added the annual theme of "New Breakthrough" to the regular theme of "New Era, New Cradle, New Strength", which refers to Changchun's role in film and its cultural commitment to "achieving a new breakthrough in comprehensive revitalization."

This year's festival has set up a total of six units of the main activities, including opening and closing ceremonies, film awards, film screenings, film forums, tribute to the "cradle", and market integration. During the same period, a series of activities such as the 6th China Film New Power Forum, film and television industry seminar, theme forum of "Discussing Films and Seeking the Essence", tribute to the cradle - "Night of Changchun Film Festival" Gala, and the launching ceremony of "Guangming Cinema" will be held.

From 2015 to 2019, the New Power of Chinese Cinema Forum has been successfully held five times as a "wind vane" for Chinese-language cinema. The Forum, held during this year's festival, is for the third time to be held in Changchun, fully demonstrating the confidence and recognition of the Chinese film industry in the CCFF. Nearly 100 young film producers, producers, screenwriters and directors who are active on the market will go to Changchun to integrate the new power of the Chinese film industry and jointly promote the sustained and healthy development of Chinese films at the starting point of Chinese films.

Changchun is the cradle of China's film industry, with profound film culture. Currently, Changchun City is vigorously implementing the Three Year Action of Comprehensive Revitalization and New Breakthroughs. Taking this film festival as an opportunity, the intention is to accelerate the cultivation and growth of the cultural industry, promote a number of major projects, and continuously expand and enhance the driving force of movies to achieve new breakthroughs in comprehensive revitalization.

Not long ago, the Changchun Municipal People's Government formulated and issued the Several Measures to Promote the High Quality Development of the Film and Television Industry, further improving the integration, innovation, and aggregation of the film and television cultural industry. Compared with the previous support policies for the industry, this policy has a greater degree of support and more specific and practical measures, playing a role in stimulating key film and television projects and driving the industrial ecology.

Composer Shu Nan, who served as a judge for the third time at the Festival, said, "In the past decade or so, I have witnessed the tremendous changes in Chinese cinema, as well as in Changchun and CCFF. I am looking forward to coming back to Changchun to experience the charm of the CCFF."

The 18th CCFF hopes to create more high-quality brands and projects that will unite the development of Chinese cinema, showcasing the magnificent picture of the new era of Chinese cinema.

The 18th CCFF will close on September 2nd, and the selection results of the "Golden Deer Award" will be unveiled.

CCFF

Zhou Lijun

[email protected]

https://www.chinaccff.com/#/

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/178823
Seoul, South Korea--(Newsfile Corp. - August 29, 2023) - Zeus Investments, a renowned leader in wealth management services, has unveiled its strategic move to further expand its investment portfolio with substantial allocations into the burgeoning hydrogen energy sector. This decisive step underscores the firm's commitment to sustainable and innovative investments while capitalizing on the growing momentum behind renewable energy solutions.

With a keen eye on the future of global energy consumption, Zeus Investments is directing a noteworthy portion of its private equity funds towards the development and advancement of hydrogen-based technologies. This bold move is poised to unlock new opportunities for investors seeking to align their financial goals with environmentally conscious endeavors.

The decision to channel resources into the hydrogen energy sector comes on the heels of increasing global awareness of the imperative to transition towards clean and renewable energy sources. Hydrogen, often touted as a versatile and clean energy carrier, has garnered immense attention for its potential to revolutionize industries and combat climate change.

John Henning, Head of Private Equity at Zeus Investments, expressed enthusiasm for this strategic initiative, stating, "Our commitment to sustainable investment practices remains unwavering. The hydrogen energy sector aligns perfectly with our vision of fostering innovation while generating substantial returns for our valued clients. We firmly believe that by investing in cutting-edge technologies, we contribute not only to our clients' financial prosperity but also to the betterment of our planet."

The firm's foray into the hydrogen energy sector reflects a prudent understanding of market dynamics and a commitment to staying ahead of industry trends. Zeus Investments's specialized teams of analysts and researchers have meticulously identified high-potential companies within the sector, ensuring that client investments are strategically placed for maximum impact.

Hydrogen's versatility as an energy source, its potential to power transportation, industry, and even residential sectors, has propelled it into the spotlight of global energy conversations. Zeus Investments's strategic fund allocations are anticipated to support groundbreaking research, innovation, and the scaling up of hydrogen infrastructure.

In an era where responsible investing is on the rise, Zeus Investments's move to allocate private equity funds to the hydrogen energy sector is anticipated to resonate deeply with investors who seek not only financial growth but also positive societal and environmental impact. This announcement reinforces the firm's reputation for forward-thinking investment strategies and its dedication to nurturing sustainable development.

As the hydrogen energy sector continues to gain momentum, Zeus Investments's latest investment allocation positions the firm at the forefront of an emerging and transformative industry. With a commitment to fostering innovation, driving positive change, and delivering value to its clients, Zeus Investments remains a formidable force in the world of wealth management.

For media inquiries, please contact:

ZEUS Investments South Korea

Contact: Hyeong Kwang-Sun

Phone No.: +82 221 588 068

Email: [email protected]

Gran Seoul 33 Jong-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, 03159, South Korea

Website: https://zeusnus.com

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/178827
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Healthcare Pioneer Joy Rodak Gives Back With Scholarship Fund



OCALA, FLORIDA - The newly established Joy Rodak Scholarship for Healthcare Students aims to support the educational journeys of aspiring healthcare professionals. Valued at $1,000, this prestigious scholarship opportunity invites students to showcase their academic excellence, passion for healthcare, leadership potential, and dedication to creating meaningful change. Applications are now open for the 2024 scholarship cycle.

"We believe that healthcare education has the power to transform lives," said Joy Rodak, esteemed founder of the scholarship and CEO of Village Home Care, LLC. "By investing in talented, driven students, we hope to inspire future generations of leaders who will improve healthcare in our communities. This scholarship is an opportunity to help students pursue their dreams while making a difference."

To qualify for the merit-based Joy Rodak Scholarship, applicants must be enrolled in an accredited undergraduate or graduate program in a healthcare-related field of study. Ideal candidates demonstrate outstanding academic performance, leadership skills, commitment to the healthcare profession, and the aspiration to positively impact healthcare practices and outcomes.

The scholarship committee will conduct a holistic review of each application, carefully evaluating criteria that include:

Academic Excellence: Strong academic record and achievements in healthcare coursework

Passion for Healthcare: Genuine dedication to the field, evidenced through experiences and interests

Leadership: Demonstrated skills and initiative to lead change in healthcare

Essay Quality: Clarity, coherence, and compelling perspective in written submission

Professionalism: Effective communication and ethical, professional conduct

Potential for Impact: Ability to improve healthcare through intended career

"We're looking for students who exhibit the qualities of transformative leaders in the making," Rodak noted. "Applicants who can convey their aspirations, values, and vision through a thoughtful application have a strong chance of being selected."

Joy Rodak, a distinguished executive with over 25 years of healthcare industry experience, oversees Village Home Care operations across Florida. Through the scholarship, she aims to pay forward her passion for empowering healthcare professionals. Rodak holds an MBA and draws inspiration from organizations like the South Florida Executive Healthcare Forum.

The deadline to apply for the 2024 Joy Rodak Scholarship cycle is January 15, 2024, with the winner announced February 15, 2024. For details on eligibility, required materials, and submission instructions, visit the official scholarship website.

"We encourage all eligible students who are dedicated to healthcare excellence and have a drive to lead impactful careers to apply," Rodak said. "The future of healthcare rests in the hands of today's students - we hope this scholarship can help them achieve their noble goals."

Contact Info:

Name: Joy Rodak

Email: Send Email

Organization: Joy Rodak Scholarship

Website: https://joyrodakscholarship.com



Release ID: 89106022

If there are any problems, discrepancies, or queries related to the content presented in this press release, we kindly ask that you notify us immediately at [email protected]. Our responsive team will be available round-the-clock to address your concerns within 8 hours and take necessary actions to rectify any identified issues or support you with press release takedowns. Ensuring accurate and trustworthy information is our unwavering commitment.
It is our right to ask the international human rights organisations to devote more attention to the situation in Israel, the so-called oasis of democracy in the Middle East.

It is important to express our gratitude to the international human rights organisations concerned with the fate of prisoners of conscience in the Arab region, people detained without charge, or tried before special courts outside normal judicial procedures.

At the same time, it is our right to ask those same organisations to devote more attention to the situation in Israel, the so-called oasis of democracy in the Middle East.

I have before me a recent Haaretz article, reporting that at least a quarter of Palestinian prisoners are being held without charge and are not awaiting trial. They are called administrative detainees, and they can be held indefinitely. Generally, they are not included in the official numbers of Palestinian prisoners, so the authorities do not have to be held accountable for them. They are frequently subjected to brutal torture.

The article cites the director of HaMoked, the Centre for the Defense of the Individual, as saying that the use of administrative detention has crossed every boundary in the past year. This is an unprecedented and worrying situation.

Even aside from the administrative detainees, most Palestinian prisoners are tried under special laws that do not apply to Israelis. Many are tried in military courts. According to the Palestinian Information Centre, more than 5,000 Palestinians were being held in 22 Israeli prisons at the beginning of 2023.

This included 345 ill people, 160 children and 130 women. There have been 103 reported cases of death by torture in prisons. The numbers are likely to have increased in recent months against the backdrop of the brutal attacks being carried out by extremist settlers against Palestinian civilians. The settlers violence has, at the very least, received encouragement from Israeli authorities.

The relationship between the authorities and the settlers is just ambiguous enough to maintain a facade of deniability, but there is evidence that the authorities do not intervene to prevent the settler attacks if they do not actively collude in them.

The Israelis are never brought to trial, even after committing murder in broad daylight. Some Israeli rights organisations have also protested against the atrocities which, for the first time, the US government has denounced as terrorist acts. So, are we not right to wonder what the international human rights organisations have been doing about this?

* A version of this article appears in print in the 31 August, 2023 edition of Al-Ahram Weekly

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Summit Oak Builders has been operating in New Braunfels, TX for nearly a decade with many positive reviews. The company has an in-house design consultant to ensure they are helping clients to realize their vision and expectations.



Summit Oak Builders and Greg Griffin are pleased to announce that the New Braunfels custom home builders are creating a name for themselves. The hands-on approach is particularly noted by clients who see their dream home come to fruition before their eyes.

The owner, Greg, along with the entire Summit Oak Builders team, are invested in the community where they live - New Braunfels and the nearby Texas Hill Country communities, including Canyon Lake, Spring Branch, Bulverde, Wimberley, Blanco, San Marcos, Seguin, and Boerne. The custom home builders craft homes in South Central Texas, including Comal, Blanco, Hays, and Guadalupe Counties.

Summit Oak Builders ensures that every detail, modern amenity, and decorative touch in the new custom home is suited for the family's discerning tastes. Most importantly, the builder's dedication to artistry and quality in residential design and construction is matched only by their commitment to exceptional service before, during, and post-construction. Greg is personally involved in each project from the early stages of design through the final finishing touches at completion. He knows what makes the team at Summit Oak Builders special and sets it apart is the skilled artisans who work on each project.

Additional details are available at https://summitoakbuilders.com/

Over the past two decades, Greg has worked on developing working relationships with top subcontractors. He only involves tradespeople who are committed to excellence in their work. The team and tradespeople make the difference in a Summit Oak home. The team takes pride in creating functional and beautiful spaces for clients. Whether the goal is to take advantage of a breathtaking view, nest the house in a secluded natural environment, or be close to town in the thick of the action, Summit Oak Builders can design and build a home that fits perfectly. The designs suit growing families, multigenerational households, or empty nester layouts.

Summit Oak Builders operates in New Braunfels and surrounding areas, building custom homes in a subdivision on acreage sites in Guadalupe, Hays, and Comal Counties. From the onset of conversations regarding the house, Summit Oak Builders listens to the clients specific wants, needs, and dreams. The experienced design team takes the time to understand what is most important to each client. The designers and builders then work together to create what the client envisions.

For several reasons, Summit Oaks Builders is recognized as the company of choice in the Hill Country. The professional team understands the importance of frequent communication throughout each building process phase. Their goal is to make the project an enjoyable experience. The team is available for questions that may arise during the build and sends out individualized weekly updates regarding current and upcoming happenings in the project. The entire team is committed to the clients project from beginning to end.

The dedicated construction manager oversees each step of the production process, and the owner and staff are involved and on-site regularly to ensure that the home is being built to the highest standards. The team is known for its quality products and services. The top subcontractors in the area, along with everyone at Summit Oak Builders, form a dream team to build the home. The expectations of the subcontractors are very high ensuring the builders deliver a beautifully crafted and constructed home that exceeds the highest standards as a collective group.



About the Company:

Summit Oak Builders brings expertise and exceptional craftsmanship to each home they build throughout the Texas Hill Country. The team has worked with clients for almost a decade to make their dream of a custom home a reality. The longstanding relationships built with subs further strengthen the excellent reputation of the contractors.

Contact Info:

Name: Greg Griffin

Email: Send Email

Organization: Summit Oak Builders

Address: 6581 FM 306, New Braunfels, TX 78132

Phone: (830) 625-1111

Website: https://summitoakbuilders.com/



Release ID: 89106081

If there are any deficiencies, problems, or concerns regarding the information presented in this press release that require attention or if you need assistance with a press release takedown, we encourage you to notify us without delay at [email protected]. Our diligent team is committed to promptly addressing your concerns within 8 hours and taking necessary actions to rectify any identified issues or facilitate the removal process. Providing accurate and trustworthy information is of utmost importance.
The Inception Research Institute continues forging the path of advanced reproductive technologies

through investments in groundbreaking studies and addressing the industry's pressing needs and challenges

HOUSTON , Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Inception Fertility, the largest provider of comprehensive fertility and support services in North America , celebrates the first anniversary of the Inception Research Institute, an organization within the Inception ecosystem dedicated to advancing all aspects of fertility care through groundbreaking research and strategic partnerships.

Established in 2022, the Inception Research Institute elevates the field of reproductive medicine by addressing the industry's most urgent needs, including cutting-edge advances in patient care through pharmacological innovations and device development, improving access to care, professional development and advancement, and innovative studies which investigate the relationships between treatment success and controllable entities such as lifestyle habits and emotional health.

The Inception Research Institute also supports the clinical research of The Prelude Network (Prelude), Inception's clinical network of top-tier fertility practices across North America , by providing centralized services such as IRB applications, contract review, and recruitment support. A significant number of Prelude's research studies have been published in leading medical journals, including a breakthrough 15-year study on egg freezing. These research studies have been presented at the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM)'s and the European Society for Human Reproduction and Embryology (ESHRE)'s annual scientific congresses, as well as publications in the leading peer-reviewed medical journals.

"We know that the best way to improve patient care is through research, and the need for quality reproductive care will continue to grow, so in order for the industry to meet the inevitable increase in cutting-edge science, we have to invest in understanding and improving each part of the fertility process, from the science of reproductive medicine to the patient journey," said Alice Domar , PhD, Chief Compassion Officer at Inception, and the Director of the Inception Research Institute. "The Inception Research Institute proudly invests in those efforts that we know will strengthen all aspects of fertility care, so that we can increase successful outcomes for future aspiring parents."

Investment in fertility studies is one component of reaching the organization's goals and goes beyond technology research to include all aspects of the patient's journey. Current studies include looking at how AI can improve treatment outcomes, investigating the impact of physiological manifestations of stress on IVF cycle outcome, investigating how to improve the patient-centered care experience, as well as FDA pharma and device trials. A full list of active Inception research studies can be found at fertilitystudies.com.

"The launch of the Inception Research Institute is a positive step forward in addressing our industry's most pressing challenges, including access expansion, evolving technologies, and improving the patient experience," says Dr. Jamie Grifo , Program Director at NYU Langone Fertility Center, Chief Executive Physician at Inception Fertility. "We look forward to continuing to expand our research and uncovering breakthrough solutions that will propel the industry forward."

To learn more about the Inception Research Institute, please visit inceptionfertility.com/inception-research-institute.

About Inception Fertility

Inception Fertility (Inception) is a family of fertility brands committed to helping patients build their own families. Built by patients for patients, Inception's purpose is to achieve the highest bar in experience, science and medicine in an effort to enhance each patient's experience and achieve better outcomes.

Inception's medical experts are leading pioneers in fertility care. Our doctors are some of the first to use breakthrough assisted reproductive technologies (ART)  including in vitro fertilization (IVF), preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) and fertility preservation services  and they continue to lead the industry by building on these technologies by thorough development, research and thought leadership.

Through its growing family of national organizations  which includes The Prelude Network, the fastest-growing network of fertility clinics and largest provider of comprehensive fertility services in North America; Pathways Fertility, clinics that provide affordable, individualized and high quality care; MyEggBank, one of the largest frozen donor egg banks in North America; BUNDL Fertility, a multi-cycle fertility service bundling program; HavenCryo, a long-term reproductive preservation and storage solution provider and NutraBloom, a premium lifestyle brand with expertly formulated supplements to support individuals' health and wellness goals for preconception  Inception is working to deliver on its promise to push the envelope of what is possible for exceeding patient expectations.

CONTACT:

Anna Lonsway

216-905-0275

[email protected]

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/advancing-fertility-care-through-research-inception-fertility-celebrates-first-year-of-the-inception-research-institute-301912746.html

SOURCE Inception Fertility
The company is a leading manufacturer of wind blades in Latin America and one of the largest producers of wind blades in the global market

SAO PAULO, Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Aeris Energy, a leading Brazilian manufacturer of wind blades in Latin America and one of the largest producers in the global market, has a services division in the USA to meet the growing demand for wind energy, which is expected to increase by 20% in the coming years worldwide, doubling installed capacity by 2030, according to the Lazard Levelized Cost of Energy Analysis and Future of Wind 2019 (Irena).

With an eye on this market and the need for inspection and maintenance services for the wind turbine fleet due to growth and the aging of turbines, Aeris has bet on a specialized wind turbine services unit: Aeris Service. The division, set up in 2013 in Brazil and with a branch in the USA since 2018, provides services such as preventive and corrective maintenance, photographic inspections, painting, cleaning, and repairs of wind blades. One of its differentials is its proprietary Specialized Training Center, which guarantees qualified training.

This strategy is a good fit with the drive for renewable sources in the USA , with its plans to create new clean energy (wind and solar) plants with an installed capacity of approximately 606 gigawatts. This follows the goal set by President Joe Biden , which calls for the elimination of carbon dioxide emissions in the US by 2035, as widely reported in the local press.

In addition to the new wind turbine units that will be installed and will need inspection in the coming years  the company already has a contract with the main equipment manufacturers  there is another opportunity in the US market in mature turbine lines. A lot of projects are not covered by the manufacturer's total care contracts, and in this context the company has formed closer direct relationships with wind farm owners to cover demand for maintenance and repair services in this market.

"We want to provide the best solutions for a green transition to our renewable energy clients anywhere in the world. The growth in the use of this matrix will generate increased demand for specialized services and Aeris is well positioned to support its clients on this front," says Alexandre Negrao, CEO of Aeris.

About Aeris Energy

With plants strategically located in one of the best regions for wind power generation in the world, in Ceara state, Brazil , Aeris Energy is a leading manufacturer of wind turbine blades in Latin America and one of the largest producers in the global market. It was founded in 2010 by a group of engineers from the aeronautics sector who saw the growth potential for wind energy in the Brazilian energy matrix and the increasing demand for sustainable solutions in the energy market. The company operates two plants in the Pecem Industrial and Port Complex , in the municipality of Caucaia/ Ceara state.

For further information, please visit: https://www.aerisenergy.com.br/

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/aeris-energy-bets-on-services-division-in-the-usa-301912625.html

SOURCE Aeris Energy
SAN DIEGO , Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Trucept Inc. (OTC Pink: TREP) Today Afinida Insurance announced the addition of Viola Williams as Director of Sales Operations.

Afinida Insurance , a Trucept Company Announces Key Hire To Drive Growth

An industry veteran in the insurance sector, Viola Williams rapidly ascended from an entry level position to instrumental roles at Allstate, pioneering the "Lifetime Opportunity" dealership program. A dedicated educator, Williams has mentored over 300 new agents, guiding them to licensure in Life and Health, and Property and Casualty. Additionally, she managed her own thriving insurance agency showcasing both her entrepreneurial and industry expertise. In her new role, she will be responsible for implementing new processes and procedures to drive the expected exponential growth within the division.

Julie Neill , Afinida's COO added: "With the insurance division being positioned for rapid growth, it was critical that we add someone with Viola's background and deep industry experience to the Team. We're thrilled to have her on board".

Trucept and its subsidiaries offer professional services that help businesses navigate growth. The company's professional services now encompass the following:

Data Driven Marketing, Technology, and Accessibility Act Compliance Services

Insurance Offerings and Third-party Administrator (TPA) services

Full-Service Payroll

Human Resources and Management

Employee Benefits Administration

Accounting Support

Safety and Risk Management

For additional information, visit www.trucept.com

About Trucept Inc.

True solutions, today and tomorrow: Trucept Inc. helps organizations focus on growing their business. With a dedicated suite of powerful tools and services designed to put business owners in charge of running their businesses and increasing efficiency, Trucept tackles a variety of important administrative needs and provides a host of value-added advantages. For more information, call 858-798-1620 or visit https://trucept.com/.

Disclaimer

Statements in this press release that are not historical facts are forward-looking statements, including statements regarding future revenues and sales projections, plans for future financing, the ability to meet operational milestones, marketing arrangements and plans, and shipments to and regulatory approvals in international markets. Such statements reflect management's current views, are based on certain assumptions and involve risks and uncertainties. Actual results, events, or performance may differ materially from the above forward-looking statements due to a number of important factors, and will be dependent upon a variety of factors, including, but not limited to, our ability to obtain additional financing that will allow us to continue our current and future operations and whether demand for our products and services in domestic and international markets will continue to expand. The Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update these forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances that occur after the date hereof or to reflect any change in the Company's expectations with regard to these forward-looking statements or the occurrence of unanticipated events. Factors that may impact the Company's success are more fully disclosed in the Company's most recent public filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC"), including its annual report on Form 10-K.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/afinida-insurance-a-trucept-company-announces-key-hire-to-drive-growth-301911725.html

SOURCE Afinida Insurance
Planned features include longform editing, work related templates, proactive AI suggestions, live outlines and AI question answering, creating a one-stop-platform for generative AI tools

TEL AVIV, Israel , Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- AI21 Labs , a leader in generative AI and Large Language Models, launched today a powerful upgrade for Wordtune, transforming the company's original consumer tool into an all-in-one platform with multiple features for generative AI reading, writing and knowledge control assistance.

The enhanced version of Wordtune is designed to enable professional users, in addition to consumers, to enhance text-based tasks through a variety of new tools, including longform editing, work related templates, proactive AI suggestions, live outlines and knowledge-based control tools. The new Wordtune update also combines the read product into the platform, providing text and YouTube summarization integrated alongside the editing and text generation features.

As AI spending is set to hit $300 billion by 2026 , the demand for trustworthy, accurate, and reliable generative AI technology is increasing. Enterprise businesses, professional end-users, and general consumers are all seeking to enhance efficiency and productivity by automating certain time and resource-consuming processes related to text-based content. With numerous generative AI applications constantly emerging on the market, AI21 Labs' new step contributes to the growing need for comprehensive platforms to save consumers and businesses the time and costs associated with multiple point solutions. AI21 Labs was also just named as SOC2 (Service Organization Control 2) compliant, following a rigorous evaluation process, further demonstrating their reliability.

AI21 originally launched Wordtune as a browser extension in October 2020 , and has since grown to tens of millions of users and was named by Google as one of its favorite extensions of 2021. It is used by top companies to assist employees in their productivity, including Monday.com, eBay, UiPath, Simply (formerly JoyTunes), and Transmit Security and was one of the first generative AI tools to cite sources, a key function to building end-user trust and understanding around the origins of generated information.

Until now, Wordtune could be used across platforms from social media, email platforms, and office software suites to spot grammar mistakes, generate original content, rephrase sentences, summarize long text, and to adjust tone. The read product has been trusted by academics and researchers for years, due to its source citing, showing users where exactly summary answers came from in the original text, providing a more reliable user experience.

The latest version of Wordtune expands upon previous features, enabling end-users to apply it to larger works of text. New features include:

Create : A variety of templates to assist users in professional content creation, including resumes, job descriptions for HR managers, copy for marketing assets, and presentations.

: A variety of templates to assist users in professional content creation, including resumes, job descriptions for HR managers, copy for marketing assets, and presentations. Question Answering: Providing AI answers for user questions based on their personal library of documents, while citing the source material, enabling the user to control a large knowledge base, while providing accurate hallucination-free answers.

Providing AI answers for user questions based on their personal library of documents, while citing the source material, enabling the user to control a large knowledge base, while providing accurate hallucination-free answers. Improved fact-based AI: Wordtune not only presents facts, it checks five sources to guarantee the fact is 100% true.

Wordtune not only presents facts, it checks five sources to guarantee the fact is 100% true. Planned features that will be released in the coming months include:

Proactive AI: AI that recognizes that the user is writing, actively offering suggestions and improvements to the text.

AI that recognizes that the user is writing, actively offering suggestions and improvements to the text. Live Outline : Save time by producing and editing full articles based on multiple key points.

: Save time by producing and editing full articles based on multiple key points. Long-form Editing: Edit entire bodies of text all at once. Users can edit and rephrase an entire body of text all at once, follow the recommended changes, accepting or regenerating piece by piece, or all at once.

New pricing plans, suitable for individuals and businesses, accompany the upgraded Wordtune bundle.

"AI21 Labs is constantly innovating to meet the growing demands from our users around the world, from Fortune 500 companies to individuals. There are so many use cases for generative AI, we updated our Wordtune platform, allowing us to combine AI-powered reading and writing capabilities into a single seamless experience," said Ori Goshen, Co-CEO and Co-Founder of AI21 Labs. "Reading and writing are deeply intertwined. We often read in order to write something, and we write so others can read it. Wordtune is the first AI-powered reading and writing application suite, designed to increase productivity and efficiency while working as a sidekick to users, instead of replacing them."

About AI21 Labs

AI21 Labs is a leader in generative AI and Large Language Models, with the mission to empower businesses with state-of-the-art LLMs and AI applications, allowing them to build their own generative AI-driven solutions. Founded in 2017, it was among the first companies to bring generative AI to the masses and, to date, offers consumer applications and enterprise solutions. With the developer platform AI21 Studio , businesses can build their own generative AI-driven applications and services with the world's most advanced family of language models, Jurassic-2. AI21 Labs' consumer product, Wordtune, is the first AI-based writing assistant to understand context and meaning, enabling its millions of users to refine and generate text or read and summarize text within seconds. For more information, please visit www.AI21.com .

Media Contact

Laura Raanan

Gova10 for AI21 Labs

[email protected]

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/ai21-labs-rolls-out-wordtune-upgrade-expanding-its-generative-ai-offering-with-all-in-one-platform-301912655.html

SOURCE AI21 Labs
Physician platform Alo supporting independent practices in North Carolina with new option for maintaining independence while improving operations and enhancing care

Agreement with Blue Cross NC supports participating practices committed to quality and efficiency improvements

Alo CIN practices gain access to shared data and advanced analytics through Innovaccer-driven tech platform

DURHAM, N.C. , Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Alo, the North Carolina -based healthcare company founded to support independent providers and help them maintain their independence, has launched the Alo Clinically Integrated Network (CIN), giving physicians more ways to strengthen their practices and enhance patient care. The launch is supported by a network agreement with Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina (Blue Cross NC) and by Alo's selection of Innovaccer , the Health Cloud company, to enable practices to share data and access advanced analytics.

The Alo CIN helps North Carolina's independent practices remain physician-owned while improving their financial footing. Between 2010 and 2018 the number of independently owned practices in North Carolina decreased 22% as more than 2,000 independent practices closed or were acquired by health systems and corporate entities.1

A clinically integrated network is a formal partnership of like-minded physicians who collaborate to improve healthcare quality, access, and efficiency. In return for demonstrating value such as improved patient health outcomes and reduced costs, CINs can collectively contract with insurance companies and other payors. The physician-led Alo CIN will provide participating members technology, analytics, education, and best practices to generate a better patient and physician experience. Participating practices will also gain enhanced access to patient services such as behavioral health, psychiatry services, chronic care management, wellness, and nutrition counseling.

"Leading a physician practice these days isn't for the faint of heart," says Matt Eirich , CEO and President of Alo. "Independent physicians need more options and more support for their wellbeing and their future. By working closely with Blue Cross NC and Innovaccer, Alo is giving North Carolina physicians an innovative solution to help them remain financially sustainable and thrive in the years to come."

Alo's selection of Innovaccer gives practices joining the CIN valuable access to technology and capabilities they often can't afford on their own. These include reporting to help improve care quality, enhance patient outcomes and satisfaction, and strengthen financial performance. The system allows practices and provider groups to connect their EHR directly to the Alo CIN, interoperate, and collaborate to deliver more efficient, affordable, coordinated care without being locked into any one health system or tech stack.

The Alo CIN is now accepting applications from independent physician practices in North Carolina . Importantly, practices can join the Alo CIN while maintaining any existing ACO agreement they may have. The first Alo CIN member is Avance Care , Alo's subsidiary network of 32 practices, over 120 primary care providers, and 70 mental health professionals. Learn more: www.alosolutions.com/CIN

About Alo

Alo, the parent company of Avance Care , is a physician enablement platform that provides solutions designed to support long-term practice sustainability. Founded by a team of industry veterans that understand how to change the playing field for independent practices, Alo helps physicians optimize their practices so that they and their patients can thrive. The company is headquartered in Durham, NC and currently supports more than 30 independent practice and provider groups delivering high-quality care to over 100,000 covered lives. www.alosolutions.com .

1North Carolina Medical Society. (2019). The State of Independent Physician Practices in North Carolina . Raleigh, NC : North Carolina Medical Society.

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SOURCE Alo
Leading Senior Care Franchise Grows Coverage Area to Meet Increased Demand in Columbiana and Mahoning Counties

ROSEVILLE, Calif. , Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Always Best Care Senior Services, one of the leading senior care franchise systems in the United States , announced today that franchisee Pamela Puorro has expanded her territory to meet the demand of the growing senior population in her community. Always Best Care of Columbiana and Mahoning Counties has been providing non-medical in-home care and assisted living referral services to the area since 2013. Now, Puorro has expanded her territory north and west to serve the communities of Niles , Warren , Cortland , Newton Falls , Girard , Ravenna and Alliance .

"This area has a high percentage of seniors and disabled residents who live alone with no family nearby," said Pamela Puorro . "I started building our Always Best Care team over a decade ago and have enjoyed making a difference in the lives of so many neighbors who need help with daily tasks and companionship. This opportunity to expand our service area means our caregivers can provide even more members of the community with the support they need."

A longtime resident of East Liverpool , Puorro earned a nursing degree from Kent State University and spent her registered nursing career in skilled nursing facilities and hospitals. It was during this time she became aware of the need for compassionate caregivers who can help seniors stay comfortable in their homes. Puorro opened Always Best Care of Columbiana and Mahoning Counties and began serving East Liverpool , Wellsville , Lisbon , Salem , East Palestine , Columbiana , Boardman , Austintown and Youngstown . She has built a successful local business, achieving double-digit growth year after year while pursuing her passion for helping people maintain a safe, independent and dignified lifestyle.

Always Best Care is one of the nation's leading providers of non-medical in-home care and assisted living referral services, with skilled home health care in limited markets. The company delivers its services through an international network of more than 225 independently owned and operated franchise territories throughout the United States and Canada . By working with case managers, social workers, discharge planners, doctors, and families, Always Best Care franchise owners provide affordable, comprehensive solutions that can be specifically matched to meet a client's particular physical or social needs.

Always Best Care of Columbiana and Mahoning Counties is located at 1324 St. Clair Ave. in East Liverpool. For additional information on services available, or for a free evaluation, call 330-385-5960 or visit alwaysbestcare.com/east-liverpool for more information.

About Always Best Care

Founded in 1996, Always Best Care Senior Services is based on the belief that having the right people for the right level of care means peace of mind for the client and family. Always Best Care has been assisting seniors with a wide range of conditions and personal needs for over 27 years and currently provides thousands of hours of care every year. Franchise opportunities are available to individuals interested in leveraging the company's clear strategy and proven track record for delivering affordable, dependable service to seniors in their local areas.

Always Best Care also offers exclusive programs such as Always in Touch, Balance Tracking System, remote patient monitoring and a 24/7 AI Virtual Care Agent. For more information regarding Always Best Care's solutions, visit www.alwaysbestcare.com.

CONTACT:

Nicole Hunnicutt

Fish Consulting

404-558-4108

[email protected]

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SOURCE Always Best Care
VANCOUVER, BC , Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ - Atmofizer Technologies Inc. (the "Company" or "Atmofizer") (CSE: ATMO) (OTCQB: ATMFF) announces its interim financial results for the three months ending June 30, 2023 . All amounts are expressed in United States dollars unless otherwise noted.

CORPORATE DEVELOPMENTS

On November 29, 2022 , the Company announced its recent Business Development in the Forced Area Market (HVAC). The Company continues to transition the business to its most valuable addressable market to integrate the agglomeration technology into existing forced air systems. During the second quarter of 2023, the Company further refined its prototype design to maximize its agglomeration performance for its HVAC application. The Company through its testing at an accredited third-party lab that the design of its prototype that achieves material improvements to the results is the one that Company received a US patent on. For reference, the allowed patent application, titled, "Ultra-Fine Particle Aggregation, Neutralization and Filtration" (US Patent Application No. 11,291,939) provides broad protection for important aspects of Atmofizer's air purification technology. The Notice of Allowance from the USPTO is directed to a new design that delivers ultra-fine particle agglomeration and nanoparticle reduction performance in larger air ducts with faster-moving air, using less parts. During the past quarter, made additional draft patent filings.

The Company continues to work with one of the largest privately owned HVAC service providers in the United States . With the completion of the last phase of comprehensive third-party laboratory tests the Company plans to complete a commercialization agreement and work towards its first sales of this new product line in 2023. The new HVAC technology includes patent-pending (both US and foreign) developments that improve upon the already-patented Atmofizer agglomeration HVAC technology.

On January 12, 2023 , the Company implemented the share consolidation of one post-consolidation common share for twenty pre-consolidation common shares. The number of shares and relevant information including but not limited to the share price, number of warrants ("Warrants"), stock options ("Options") and restricted stock units ("RSUs") and exercise price per warrant and options presented in these interim financial statements had been retroactively adjusted accordingly.

On July 5, 2023 the Company announced that a series of interviews with Board member Dr. Joshua Helman took place between June 8th, 2023 and June 10th, 2023 on a number of Fox News and Fox Business shows to discuss the impact of the Canadian wildfires has on air quality and associated health risks. Dr. Helman appeared as an air quality expert on these shows. Dr. Helman was also able to highlight the benefits of Atmofizer's technology to agglomerate ultra fine particles like those that can be found in wildfire smoke. This agglomeration technology has been implemented in the company's patented A500 air purifiers and is currently under development in its HVAC integrated unit that is expected to be launched later in 2023.

Quote from Dr. Joshua Helman "The current wildfire smoke in the air is quite dangerous as it includes fine particulate that can be inhaled that can be absorbed in the lungs. Wildfire smoke is ten times as dangerous as normal air pollution is. These extremely small particles which are smaller than the width of a hair is dangerous because once you breathe them into your lungs, they go into your bloodstream and then spread to brain, heart, kidneys liver and other organs. The people who are most vulnerable to this threat are the young and older people. And those with chronic conditions. If you are in an area with poor air quality, I strongly recommend that you remain indoors and have a good home air filtration system. Atmofizer's technology uses sound wave technology that captures these extremely fine particles and uses UV light to neutralize them."

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS FOR THREE MONTHS AND SIX MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 2023

Revenue for the second quarter of 2023 was $52,041 compared to $nil in the prior period. The Company is actively working on the development of its HVAC business in 2023. The sales in the second quarter represent sales of its A500 units which are being done as opportunities present themselves.

Cost of Goods sold for the second quarter ended June 30, 2023 , was $6,562 compared to $nil in the prior period. Cost of goods sold includes fulfillment cost and e-commerce processing fees. The inventory was impaired at year end as the Company has discontinued its focus on this business and therefore the cost of the actual unit was $nil in the cost of goods sold.

Gross profit was 87% for the second quarter ended June 30, 2023 , compared to $nil in the prior period.

The Company incurred $350,024 in expenses during the three months ended June 30, 2023 , compared to $5,048,068 during the three months ended June 30, 2022 . The decrease of $4,698,044 in expenses was driven by decreases in share based payments of $2.0 million , marketing expenses of $1.4 million , amortization of $0.2 million , consulting sees of $0.2 million , salaries and wages of $0.2 million , impairment of inventory of $0.4 million and R&D of $0.1 million and other expenses of $0.2 million .

During the three months ended June 30, 2023 , the Company recorded net loss of $0.3 million compared to a net loss of $5.0 million for the three months ended June 30, 2022 . The decrease of $4.7 million decrease in expenses was driven by decreases in share based payments of $2.0 million , marketing expenses of $1.4 million , amortization of $0.2 million , consulting sees of $0.2 million , salaries and wages of $0.2 million , impairment of inventory of $0.4 million and R&D of $0.1 million and other expenses of $0.2 million .

Revenue for the six months period ending June 30, 2023 , was $52,641 compared to $210,000 in the prior period. The Company is actively working on the development of its HVAC business in 2023. The sales in the first six months represent sales of its A500 units which are being done as opportunities present themselves.

Cost of Goods sold for the six months ended June 30, 2023 , was $6,562 compared to $149,707 in the prior period. Cost of goods sold includes fulfillment cost and e-commerce processing fees. The inventory was impaired at year end as the Company has discontinued its focus on this business and therefore the cost of the actual unit was $nil in the cost of goods sold.

Gross profit was 88% for the six months ended June 30, 2023 , compared to 29% in the prior period. The primary reason for the higher gross profit margin is because the inventory was impaired at year end and the Company has discontinued its focus on this business and therefore the cost of the actual unit was $nil in the cost of goods sold.

The Company incurred $0.7 million in expenses during the six months ended June 30, 2023 , compared to $11.6 million during the six months ended June 30, 2022 . The decrease of $10.9 million in expenses was driven by decreases in share based payments of $6.6 million , marketing expenses of $1.5 million , amortization of $0.5 million , consulting sees of $0.9 million , salaries and wages of $0.4 million , impairment of inventory of $0.4 million and R&D of $0.2 million and other expenses of $0.4 million .

During the six months ended June 30, 2023 , the Company recorded net loss of $0.7 million compared to a net loss of $11.5 million for the six months ended June 30, 2022 . The decrease of $10.8 million was driven by decreases in share based payments of $6.6 million , marketing expenses of $1.5 million , amortization of $0.5 million , consulting sees of $0.9 million , salaries and wages of $0.4 million , impairment of inventory of $0.4 million and R&D of $0.2 million and other expenses of $0.4 million .

LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

The Company's activities to date have been funded through equity financings, sales of inventory and the sale of a parcel of land it acquired during the RTO process of 2021.

As of June 30, 2023 , the Company had working capital deficiency of $1,092,899 .

The Company established the ATM Program in February 2022 which allows the Company to issue and sell up to C$5 million of Common Shares from treasury to the public, from time to time, at the Company's discretion. To date, the Company has issued 4,198,075 Common Shares for gross proceeds of C$2,619,396 under the ATM Program as of the date of this MD&A. During the first quarter of 2023, the Company sold 1,668,500 common shares under the ATM Program with gross proceeds of $194,193 (CA$261,318). In connection with the share issuance of 1,668,500 common shares, the Company paid a commission of $4,854 (CA$6,533).

There can be no assurances the Company will be successful in its endeavors. If such funds are not available or other sources of finance cannot be obtained, the Company may be forced to curtail its activities to a level for which funding is available or can be obtained.

The Company terminated the ATM program on August 29, 2023 .

About Atmofizer Technologies Inc.

Atmofizer's consumer and industrial solutions are based on its patent-protected and patent pending technology for ultrafine particle agglomeration and neutralization. This capability creates a revolutionary and more efficient method for addressing the wide range of dangerous nano-scale particles, viruses and bacteria that are too small to be effectively managed by conventional HEPA filters and ultraviolet lights. Atmofizer plans to disrupt the air treatment industry by improving air safety and purification efficiency while lowering customers' operational costs.

Atmofizing air refers to the process of using ultrasonic acoustic waves to agglomerate (cluster together) small particles into a larger target that is then radiated by ultraviolet light to neutralize their harmful properties. Using units that atmofize air in tandem with HEPA filters can make the HEPA filters work more efficiently, enable the use of a less-powerful filter and result in a cleaner and longer-lasting filter that reduces operating costs and is less of a health hazard to clean or replace.

Atmofizer is patent-pending and patent-protected sole source of technology to atmofize air and is applying its proprietary technology in consumer and industrial air purification products currently manufactured under the Atmofizer brand, as well as in retail and commercial devices produced by other companies that integrate Atmofizer technology into their own products under license. Atmofizer's owned and licensed product lines include wearable, portable and mobile use for personal air treatment, as well as larger systems to handle higher air volumes for commercial, industrial, institutional and residential applications.

Forward-Looking Information

This press release contains "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities laws. All statements contained herein that are not clearly historical in nature may constitute forward-looking information. In some cases, forward-looking information can be identified by words or phrases such as "may", "will", "expect", "likely", "should", "would", "plan", "anticipate", "intend", "potential", "proposed", "estimate", "believe" or the negative of these terms, or other similar words, expressions and grammatical variations thereof, or statements that certain events or conditions "may" or "will" happen, or by discussions of strategy. The forward-looking information contained herein includes, without limitation, the business and strategic plans of the Company.

By their nature, forward-looking information is subject to inherent risks and uncertainties that may be general or specific and which give rise to the possibility that expectations, forecasts, predictions, projections or conclusions will not prove to be accurate, that assumptions may not be correct and that objectives, strategic goals and priorities will not be achieved. A variety of factors, including known and unknown risks, many of which are beyond our control, could cause actual results to differ materially from the forward-looking information in this press release including, without limitation: the Company's ability to comply with all applicable laws and governmental regulations relating to its commercial products; the ability of the Company to protect its intellectual property; impacts to the business and operations of the Company due to the COVID-19 pandemic; the conflict in eastern Europe ; having only a limited operating history, the ability of the Company to access capital to meet future financing needs; the Company's reliance on management and key personnel; competition; changes in consumer trends; foreign currency fluctuations; and general economic, market or business conditions.

Additional risk factors can also be found in the Company's continuous disclosure documents, which have been filed on SEDAR and can be accessed at www.sedar.com . Readers are cautioned to consider these and other factors, uncertainties and potential events carefully and not to put undue reliance on forward-looking information. The forward-looking information contained herein is made as of the date of this press release and is based on the beliefs, estimates, expectations and opinions of management on the date such forward-looking information is made. The Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, estimates or opinions, future events or results or otherwise or to explain any material difference between subsequent actual events and such forward-looking information, except as required by applicable law.

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SOURCE Atmofizer Technologies Inc.
TEL AVIV , Israel , Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- BBT.live, the innovative company behind the BeBroadband SaaS platform, an SD-WAN/SASE as a Service built for multi-national infrastructure service providers, today announced that it has signed a partnership agreement to support BBT.live expansion into North America . Newtronix, a New York based wholly owned subsidiary of Eastronics, will serve as a local partner managing supply chain, operations & logistics, including inventory, integration, fulfillment, and RMA process on behalf of BBT.live North America .

BBT.live's BeBroadband presents a comprehensive cloud-native solution meticulously crafted to empower service providers in implementing software-defined networking for their corporate clients. The solution optimizes network traffic, ensuring efficient transmission of data, elevating application performance and delivering an uninterrupted user experience, especially applicable to secure Remote Office Branch Office (ROBO) connectivity setups.

The holistic solution encompasses a robust Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) cybersecurity framework, seamless connectivity, WAN optimization, and a feature rich management and control mechanism. All these components are seamlessly orchestrated through a multi-tenant self-service portal. A single subscription for the full solution including edge appliance hardware from leading manufacturer Advantech.

As an SD-WAN/SASE as a Service company, BBT.live offersa sophisticated solution that seamlessly marries the capabilities of Software-Defined Wide Area Networking (SD-WAN) and the cutting-edge potential of SASE. This amalgamation includes the pivotal Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) features, leveraging cloud-native technology. The integrated proposition furnishes Service Providers and businesses with an adaptable, secure, and highly efficient network infrastructure.

"We are pleased to partner with Eastronics - Newtronix in promoting BeBroadband as a Service in a key market, that will support our plan for global growth," said Erez Zelikovitz , EVP of Product and Revenue at BBT.live. "The partnership will help BBT.live & Newtronix to meet the growing North American demand."

"We are proud to become a BBT.live partner for its growing North American market activity," said Doron Eitan , Eastronics' Embedded Group Manager. "We believe this is a very promising mutual business opportunity, and we look forward to supporting the BBT.live vision to become a major player in the SASE, ZTNA global market."

About BBT.live:

BBT.live offers SD-WAN/SASE as a Service security and connectivity designed for service providers with the BeBroadband as a Service platform. BBT.live's tech-agnostic solution fits use cases across multiple verticals. Partnerships with Checkpoint for cyber-security protection, Rohde & Schwarz for Deep Packet inspection enabled WAN Optimization, Advantech, Intel, and more; BeBroadband offers an all-in-one SASE solution for managing and controlling business networks.

About Eastronics:

In business for nearly 70 years, Eastronics is a leading independent high-tech distribution company in Israel , servicing diverse end markets including IoT, industrial, security, automotive, AI, Embedded Computing and Communication. Eastronics is the Israeli distributor, and VAR, of Intel, Micron, Telit, Advantech, and many other leading vendors. From its Tel Aviv facilities, Eastronics employs a team of over 100 people, including highly experienced technical sales and application engineers.

For media inquiries or further information, please contact:

David Weissmann , AVP Sales & Marketing, [email protected], +972-587-955-088

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SOURCE BBT.Live
LAKE OSWEGO, Ore. , Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- BIOTRONIK, a leader in implantable medical device technology, today announced its first US implantation of the new Amvia Edge pacemaker. The procedure was successfully completed by Dr. Raul Weiss at Mount Sinai Medical Center in Miami, Florida .

Amvia Edge is BIOTRONIK's next-generation pacemaker family, featuring MRI Guard 24/7, the market's only dedicated, always-on MRI sensor. MRI Guard 24/7 is designed to allow a clinic to substantially reduce the time burden of device management for MRI scans by automatically recognizing when the patient enters an MRI field and converting the device to MRI mode. The device then automatically returns to its permanent programming following the completion of the scan, eliminating any pre- or post-scan programming needs1,2.

Amvia Edge is the first pacemaker family from BIOTRONIK to offer EarlyCheck, another tool designed to simplify clinic workflow by automating pre-discharge checks. EarlyCheck will automatically deliver a device report and IEGM to the BIOTRONIK Home Monitoring Service Center two hours after implant, eliminating the need for an in-person device interrogation.

"I was very pleased to have been a part of the first implant of Amvia Edge. The procedure went well, and I'm excited about the benefits this new device will be able to bring to our patients as well as our practice," said Dr. Weiss . "The ability to eliminate device scans before and after an MRI procedure is a much needed advancement, and I look forward to seeing how these types of technologies help streamline our workflows in the future."

Additionally, Amvia Edge also offers Atrial ATP (aATP), providing multiple, automatic therapies in response to detected stable atrial arrhythmias, which may reduce atrial tachycardia burden and consequently help avoid atrial remodeling3,4.

"I'm so pleased to hear about Dr. Weiss and his team's successful first implant of Amvia Edge," said Dr. David Hayes , Chief Medical Officer, BIOTRONIK, Inc. "This new family of devices was designed to optimize workflows and therapies to benefit patients and their care teams, as well as clinicians and staff."

References:

Usability survey results from 24 European centers related to MRI Guard 24/7. Data on file Mullane S, Michaelis K, Henrickson C, et al. Utilization and programming of an automatic MRI recognition feature for cardiac rhythm management devices. Heart Rhythm. O2. 2021; 2: 132137. Nattel S, Burstein B, Dobrev D. Atrial remodeling and atrial fibrillation: mechanisms and implications. Circ Arrhythm Electrophysiol. 2008; 1(1): 62-73. BIOTRONIK data on file.

For more information, visit:

www.biotronik.com

About BIOTRONIK:

At BIOTRONIK, patient well-being is our top priority and has been for 60 years. BIOTRONIK is a leading global medical technology company with products and services that save and improve the lives of millions suffering from heart and blood vessel diseases as well as chronic pain. Driven by a purpose to perfectly match technology with the human body, we are dedicated innovators who develop trusted cardiovascular, endovascular and neuromodulation solutions. BIOTRONIK is headquartered in Berlin, Germany , and is represented in more than 100 countries.

Follow us on:

About Mount Sinai Medical Center

Founded in 1949, Mount Sinai Medical Center is the largest independent, private, not-for-profit teaching hospital in South Florida . Mount Sinai's mission is to provide quality health care to a diverse community enhanced through teaching, research, charity care, and financial responsibility. Mount Sinai's Centers of Excellence combine technology, research, and academics to provide innovative and comprehensive care in cardiology, neuroscience, oncology, urology, and orthopedics. One of the original statutory teaching hospitals in the state of Florida , Mount Sinai is the hospital of choice for those who seek the level of expertise and care that only a teaching hospital can offer. Mount Sinai currently offers nine convenient locations in Miami-Dade County , including three emergency centers, and two specialty care offices and a primary care office in Monroe County . For more information on Mount Sinai Medical Center, visit msmc.com or call 305.674.CARE (2273).

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SOURCE BIOTRONIK
Gismet Gezalov has been appointed Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Azerbaijan to Turkmenistan, Azernews reports

In this regard, President Ilham Aliyev signed a corresponding decree.

In accordance with another decree of the head of state, Hasan Zeynalov was recalled from the post of Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Azerbaijan to Turkmenistan.
CHARLOTTE, N.C. , Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Carolinas AGC (CAGC) is excited to announce the seven 2023 CAGC Foundation Scholarship recipients. The Carolinas AGC Foundation Scholarship program was put into place to assist individuals studying for careers in the construction industry as well as those wishing to advance their skills and knowledge to further their construction careers.

$3,500 Scholarships:

Nathan Mead

Guilford Technical Community College

Nathan Mead will be attending Guilford Technical Community College to pursue Construction Management. After graduating from Southwestern Randolph High School in 2022, Nathan worked at Myrick Construction as a steel worker. Learn more.

Seth Phillips

Clemson University

Seth is a student at Clemson University pursuing a Construction Management & Science degree. During the Summer of 2022, Seth interned with Fifty-Four Construction and is currently interning with Harper Corporation in Greenville, SC . Learn more.

Erik Zeppelin

Clemson University

Erik will be attending Clemson University to pursue his Construction Science and Management degree. After graduating from high school, Erik took a gap year and began working at State Utility Contractors in Monroe , NC. Learn more.

Additional Scholarships



Tyler Brothers , Clemson University



Allie Stark , Clemson University



Demi Clark , Lincoln Electric (welding certification)



Mazie Clark , Clemson University

Carolinas AGC (CAGC) is a construction trade association made up of contractors and construction-related firms that perform work in North Carolina and South Carolina . CAGC is a chapter of the AGC of America (AGC) and the American Road & Transportation Builders Association (ARTBA). Our members are both small and large general contractors, specialty contractors, material/equipment suppliers, and service providers. Media Contact: Lori McGovern , [email protected]

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/carolinas-agc-foundation-awards-seven-scholarships-301895963.html

SOURCE CAGC Foundation
Novel therapeutic candidates and companion diagnostic tests intended to treat various indications across precision oncology, rare diseases, autoimmune diseases, and age-related disorders

Strategic partnership with PMC Group streamlines all Chemistry, Manufacturing, and Control (CMC) activities of each program

Co-Founded by Dr. Raj Chakrabarti , Ph.D., Chairman and CEO of CCM Biosciences and President of PMC Group International and Dr. Anisha Ghosh , Professor of Finance at McGill University

MOUNT LAUREL, N.J. , Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Diversified biotechnology company CCM Biosciences launched from stealth today with more than ten drug programs, many of which originated from CCM Biosciences' proprietary drug discovery platforms. CCM Biosciences is partnered with the global chemical and pharmaceutical manufacturing company PMC Group for the Chemistry, Manufacturing, and Controls (CMC) of its drug programs. The CCM-PMC partnership offers a fully integrated ecosystem for the discovery, development, and manufacturing of drug candidates addressing some of the most significant unmet medical needs. The company has raised more than $25M in financings including Series A1 and A2 rounds at a multi-hundred million dollar valuation.

Diverse Portfolio of First-in-Class Drug Candidates

CCM Biosciences possesses an expansive portfolio of novel product candidates including disruptive KRAS therapeutics that target the oncogene responsible for 25% of all cancers, selective first-in-class degraders of oncogenic kinases for lung cancer and leukemia, inhibitors of the master immune regulator cGAS for autoimmune disorders, therapies for nonsense mutations that account for 10% of all genetically inherited diseases, and disruptive drug candidates for mitochondrial upregulation relevant to a host of age-related disorders such as Parkinson's, Alzheimer's, and infertility.

Several of CCM Biosciences' novel drug candidates have already reached significant development milestones. Extensive validation of the drugs' scientific foundations has appeared in multiple peer-reviewed publications. Investigational New Drug applications are expected to be filed with the FDA in the near future, based on clinical trial plans developed with leading medical experts from institutions including Cleveland Clinic and Ohio State University. Dr. Sudipto Mukherjee , clinical trials investigator for CCM Biosciences' autophagy inhibitor drug program and a hematologist-oncologist at Cleveland Clinic's Taussig Cancer Institute, expressed his enthusiasm about the program saying, "CCM's program, in-licensed from Cleveland Clinic and lead optimized at CCM, has the potential to address a significant unmet need in leukemia treatment."

Leadership Team with Deep Expertise in Scientific Innovation, Chemical Engineering and Finance

Dr. Raj Chakrabarti (Harvard AB, Princeton PhD; formerly Professor of Chemical Engineering at Carnegie Mellon and Purdue Universities), co-founder and CEO of CCM Biosciences and President of PMC Group International, founded CCM Biosciences based on technology platforms he developed in academia in the areas of chemical biology, computational biophysics, systems biology, and synthetic biology. These platforms, which merge experimental high-throughput screening with physics-based computational methods and learning algorithms, have been responsible for the discovery of more than half of CCM Biosciences' drug candidates and all its diagnostic tests and continuously feed its pipeline of drug leads to address areas with significant unmet need. CCM's diagnostic technology platform builds off of patented technology originating in the PhD thesis work in nucleic acid polymerization and sequencing of Chakrabarti that are licensed to CCM Biosciences and are among the top 5 revenue-generating patents in the history of Princeton University, according to the university's Office of Technology Licensing. Chakrabarti's patent income as a biotechnology inventor provided $2M seed funding for CCM.

Dr. Anisha Ghosh , co-founder of CCM Biosciences and Professor of Finance at McGill University, oversees the choice of drug programs comprising the company's portfolio, as well as allocation of capital among them based on modern quantitative methods for asset management, given the diversity of the company's portfolio. Ghosh's research in asset pricing and portfolio management has been published in leading journals like the Journal of Finance and Review of Financial Studies, and has been the subject of invited lectures at leading venues ranging from the National Bureau of Economic Research to the Institute for Quantitative Research in Finance. She stated: "Our cost-effective approach to reach the current stage in CCM Biosciences' lifecycle offers a unique story against the backdrop of heavily funded, albeit risky, biotech companies."

PMC Group's leadership, having helmed the growth of one of the fastest-growing chemical companies in the US for over 25 years, also brings market-leading expertise in chemical manufacturing to the partnership.

About CCM Biosciences

CCM Biosciences is a biotechnology company dedicated to discovering and developing novel drugs, including small molecules, gene therapies, biologics, and nanomedicines. CCM's patented drug discovery platforms were developed at Chakrabarti Advanced Technology, a privately funded R&D institute founded in 2010 with scientists in the US, France and India and with publications in leading scientific journals including PNAS, Nucleic Acids Research, American Chemical Society journals and Nature Publishing Group iournals. These platforms are complemented by the contract research, development, and manufacturing organizations (CRDMO) at PMC Group, developed through acquisitions of industry-leading companies.

About PMC Group

PMC Group is a global chemical and pharmaceutical conglomerate, with research and manufacturing facilities spanning the US, Europe , and Asia . With revenue on the order of $1B , PMC Group has a long history of acquisitions, growth investments and operational management in the chemical and pharmaceutical industries spanning a quarter century, including acquisitions from leading global corporations such as BASF, AkzoNobel, Dow, ICI, Arkema, PPG Industries, ExxonMobil, Solvay, Chemtura, and France's SNPE. PMC has been described by the US Congress House Committee on Science and Technology as a domain leader in the US manufacturing sector alongside General Motors and Procter & Gamble.

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SOURCE CCM Biosciences
MEXICO CITY , Aug. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Comision Federal de Electricidad ("CFE", the "Company" or "us"), a productive state enterprise of the Federal Government of the United Mexican States (" Mexico ") announced today that it commenced a tender offer (the "Offer") to purchase for cash its 4.875% Notes due 2024 (the "2024 Notes), 4.75% Notes due 2027 (the "2027 Notes"), 6.125% Notes due 2045 (the "2045 Notes") and 5.750% Notes due 2042 (the "2042 Notes" and, together with the 2024 Notes, the 2027 Notes, and the 2045 Notes, the "Notes") for an aggregate purchase price, excluding accrued and unpaid interest ("Aggregate Purchase Price"), of up to US$1,000,000,000 (the "Maximum Consideration"), upon the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in the offer to purchase dated August 28, 2023 (as it may be amended or supplemented from time to time, the "Offer to Purchase") and subject to (1) the acceptance priority level of each series of Notes (the "Acceptance Priority Level") and (2) possible proration, each as described herein and in the Offer to Purchase.

The following table sets forth certain information relating to the Offer:

Title of Security CUSIPs ISINs Principal Amount

Outstanding Early Tender

Premium(1)(2) Reference U.S. Treasury Security Bloomberg

Reference

Page Fixed Spread

(basis points)(3) Acceptance

Priority Level 4.875% Notes due 2024 200447 AD2;

P30179 AM0 US200447AD28;

USP30179AM09 US$869,688,000 US$50.00 0.125% due January 15, 2024 FIT3 +0 1 4.750% Notes due 2027 200447 AF7; P29595 AB4 US200447AF75;

USP29595AB42 US$814,968,000 US$50.00 4.125% due July 31, 2028 FIT1 +120 2 6.125% Notes due 2045 200447 AE0; P30179 AR9 US200447AE01; USP30179AR95 US$618,308,000 US$50.00 4.375% due August 15, 2043 FIT1 +280 3 5.750% Notes due 2042 200447 AC4; P30179 AK4 US200447AC45; USP30179AK43 US$563,710,000 US$50.00 4.375% due August 15, 2043 FIT1 +265 4

(1) Per each US$1,000 principal amount of Notes. Holders who validly tender Notes and whose Notes are accepted for purchase will also receive accrued and unpaid interest ("Accrued Interest") up to, but excluding, the applicable Settlement Date (as defined herein). CFE has agreed, subject to specified exceptions and limitations, to pay additional interest to participants in the Offer to cover Mexican withholding taxes on interest payments.

(2) Holders who validly tender Notes on or prior to the Early Tender Date (as defined below) will be eligible to receive the Early Tender Consideration (as defined below), which includes the applicable early tender premium for each series of Notes specified in the table above (the "Early Tender Premium"). Holders who validly tender Notes after the Early Tender Date, but at or prior to the Expiration Date (as defined below), will be eligible to receive a tender consideration equal to the Early Tender Consideration minus the applicable Early Tender Premium (the "Late Tender Consideration").

(3) The tender consideration payable per each US$1,000 principal amount of each series of Notes validly tendered and not validly withdrawn on or prior to the Early Tender Date (the "Early Tender Consideration") will be determined in accordance with standard market practice, as described in the Offer to Purchase, to result in a price that equates to a yield to the maturity date in accordance with the formula set forth in Annex A to the Offer to Purchase, for the applicable series of Notes, equal to the sum of (i) the yield corresponding to the bid side price of the applicable Reference U.S. Treasury Security (as defined below) for such series of Notes at 10:00 a.m. ( New York City time) on September 12, 2023 , unless extended by CFE in its sole discretion (such date and time, as the same may be extended, the "Price Determination Date") quoted on the applicable Bloomberg reference page plus (ii) the applicable fixed spread specified in the table above (the "Fixed Spread") for such series of Notes; provided, that the Early Tender Consideration for the 2024 Notes will not exceed a price of US$1,000 per each US$1,000 principal amount of the 2024 Notes validly tendered and not validly withdrawn on or prior to the Early Tender Date.

Early Tender Consideration and Late Tender Consideration

Holders who validly tender their Notes on or prior to 5:00 p.m. ( New York City time) on September 11, 2023 (the "Early Tender Date") and do not validly withdraw their Notes on or prior to 5:00 p.m. ( New York City time) on September 11, 2023 (the "Withdrawal Date") will be eligible to receive the applicable Early Tender Consideration. The applicable Early Tender Consideration includes the applicable Early Tender Premium. Accrued Interest will be payable, in cash, in addition to the Early Tender Consideration.

Holders who validly tender their Notes after the Early Tender Date but on or prior to 5:00 p.m. on September 26, 2023 (the "Expiration Date") will be eligible to receive the applicable Late Tender Consideration, which will be equal to the applicable Early Tender Consideration minus the applicable Early Tender Premium. Accrued Interest will be payable, in cash, in addition to the Late Tender Consideration.

CFE has agreed, subject to specified exceptions and limitations, to pay additional interest to participants in the Offer to cover Mexican withholding taxes on interest payments (including gains treated as interest with respect to the sale of the Notes tendered in the Offer and the applicable Accrued Interest), such that the amount received by such holders after deduction of the withholding tax on interest payments (including gains treated as interest with respect to the sale of the Notes tendered in the Offer and the applicable Accrued Interest) will equal the Early Tender Consideration or Late Tender Consideration, as applicable, and the Accrued Interest.

Determination of Consideration

The Early Tender Consideration payable by CFE for each US$1,000 principal amount of each series of Notes validly tendered at or prior to the Early Tender Date and accepted by us pursuant to the Offer, will be calculated in accordance with standard market practice, as described in the Offer to Purchase, using the applicable yield to maturity (the "Offer Yield"), which will be equal to the sum of:

the yield (the " Reference Yield "), as calculated by the Dealer Managers (as defined below), that equates to the bid-side price of the applicable Reference U.S. Treasury Security specified on the table above for such series of Notes at the Price Determination Date quoted on the applicable Bloomberg reference page (or any other recognized quotation source selected by the Dealer Managers in their sole discretion if such quotation report is not available or is manifestly erroneous), plus





"), as calculated by the Dealer Managers (as defined below), that equates to the bid-side price of the applicable Reference Treasury Security specified on the table above for such series of Notes at the Price Determination Date quoted on the applicable Bloomberg reference page (or any other recognized quotation source selected by the Dealer Managers in their sole discretion if such quotation report is not available or is manifestly erroneous), the applicable Fixed Spread specified on the table above for such series of Notes;

provided, that the Early Tender Consideration for the 2024 Notes will not exceed a price of 100%.

Accordingly, the applicable Early Tender Consideration (which includes the applicable Early Tender Premium) payable by us for each US$1,000 principal amount of each series of Notes accepted by us will equal:

the present value on the Early Settlement Date or, if there is no Early Settlement Date with respect to such series of Notes, the Final Settlement Date, as determined at the Price Determination Date, of US$1,000 principal amount of such series of Notes due on the maturity date of such Notes and all scheduled interest payments on such principal amount of Notes to be made from (but excluding) the applicable Settlement Date, up to and including such maturity date, discounted to the applicable Settlement Date in accordance with standard market practice as described by the formula set forth in Annex A to the Offer to Purchase, at a discount rate equal to the applicable Offer Yield; provided , that if such calculation would equal a price of more than US$1,000 per each US$1,000 principal amount of the 2024 Notes, the Early Tender Consideration for each US$1,000 principal amount of 2024 Notes shall equal US$1,000 , minus





principal amount of such series of Notes due on the maturity date of such Notes and all scheduled interest payments on such principal amount of Notes to be made from (but excluding) the applicable Settlement Date, up to and including such maturity date, discounted to the applicable Settlement Date in accordance with standard market practice as described by the formula set forth in Annex A to the Offer to Purchase, at a discount rate equal to the applicable Offer Yield; , that if such calculation would equal a price of more than per each principal amount of the 2024 Notes, the Early Tender Consideration for each principal amount of 2024 Notes shall equal , the applicable Accrued Interest per US$1,000 principal amount of such Notes, such price being rounded to the nearest cent per US$1,000 principal amount of such Notes.

The Late Tender Consideration payable by us for each US$1,000 principal amount of each series of Notes validly tendered and accepted by us, will be equal to the applicable Early Tender Consideration for such series of Notes minus the Early Tender Premium for such series of Notes.

Promptly after the Price Determination Date, CFE will issue a press release specifying the Offer Yield and Early Tender Consideration for each series of Notes.

Early Settlement and Final Settlement

Following the Early Tender Date and prior to the Expiration Date, CFE may, but is not required to, accept the Notes validly tendered at or prior to the Early Tender Date (the "Early Settlement Right"), provided that all conditions set forth in the Offer to Purchase have been satisfied or waived by CFE (the date of such acceptance, the "Early Acceptance Date"). Notes accepted on an Early Acceptance Date, if any, will be settled promptly thereafter, currently expected to be on or about the third business day following the Early Tender Date (the "Early Settlement Date"). The "Final Settlement Date" is the date that CFE settles all Notes not previously settled on the Early Settlement Date, if any, and CFE expects such date to be promptly following the Expiration Date, but in any case on or prior to the second business day following the Expiration Date (any references to "Settlement Date" are to each of the Early Settlement Date and the Final Settlement Date as context may require).

Subject to applicable law, the Offer may be amended, extended or terminated. If CFE determines, in its sole discretion, to extend the Offer beyond the Expiration Date, there will be a new Final Settlement Date. During any extension of the Offer, all Notes previously tendered and not accepted for purchase pursuant to the Offer will remain subject to the Offer and may, subject to the terms and conditions of the Offer, be accepted for purchase by us. No extension of either the Early Tender Date or the Expiration Date will require the extension of withdrawal rights, unless required by applicable law.

Maximum Consideration; Acceptance Priority Procedures

Subject to the terms and conditions set forth in the Offer to Purchase CFE, is offering to purchase its outstanding Notes for cash for an Aggregate Purchase Price up to the Maximum Consideration.

CFE expressly reserves its right, but is not required, to increase the Maximum Consideration in its sole discretion, without extending the Withdrawal Date, the Early Tender Date, the Expiration Date or any Settlement Date or otherwise reinstating withdrawal rights.

Subject to the satisfaction or waiver of the conditions of the Offer, the Notes will be purchased in accordance with their Acceptance Priority Level pursuant to the following acceptance priority procedures:

first , if the Aggregate Purchase Price of all Notes validly tendered at or prior to the Early Tender Date by holders does not exceed the Maximum Consideration, then CFE will accept all such Notes validly tendered. However, if the Aggregate Purchase Price of all Notes validly tendered at or prior to the Early Tender Date by holders exceeds the Maximum Consideration, then CFE will (i) accept for purchase all validly tendered Notes of each series starting at the highest Acceptance Priority Level (level 1) and moving sequentially to Notes of each series having a lower Acceptance Priority Level (the lowest of which is level 4) until the Aggregate Purchase Price of all validly tendered Notes of a series, combined with the Aggregate Purchase Price of all accepted Notes of series with higher Acceptance Priority Levels, is as close as possible to, but does not exceed, the Maximum Consideration, (ii) accept on a prorated basis validly tendered Notes of the series with the next lower Acceptance Priority Level and (iii) not accept for purchase (x) any Notes of a series with an Acceptance Priority Level below the series prorated in accordance with (ii) hereof or (y) any Notes validly tendered after the applicable Early Tender Date; and





, if the Aggregate Purchase Price of all Notes validly tendered at or prior to the Early Tender Date by holders does not exceed the Maximum Consideration, then CFE will accept all such Notes validly tendered. However, if the Aggregate Purchase Price of all Notes validly tendered at or prior to the Early Tender Date by holders exceeds the Maximum Consideration, then CFE will (i) accept for purchase all validly tendered Notes of each series starting at the highest Acceptance Priority Level (level 1) and moving sequentially to Notes of each series having a lower Acceptance Priority Level (the lowest of which is level 4) until the Aggregate Purchase Price of all validly tendered Notes of a series, combined with the Aggregate Purchase Price of all accepted Notes of series with higher Acceptance Priority Levels, is as close as possible to, but does not exceed, the Maximum Consideration, (ii) accept on a prorated basis validly tendered Notes of the series with the next lower Acceptance Priority Level and (iii) not accept for purchase (x) any Notes of a series with an Acceptance Priority Level below the series prorated in accordance with (ii) hereof or (y) any Notes validly tendered after the applicable Early Tender Date; and second, if the Maximum Consideration is not exceeded at the Early Tender Date, CFE will repeat the steps described in the prior bullet using the Aggregate Purchase Price with respect to Notes validly tendered after the Early Tender Date, but at or prior to the Expiration Date, in order to determine the aggregate principal amount of such Notes that CFE will accept for purchase. All Notes, regardless of Acceptance Priority Level, that are validly tendered at or prior to the Early Tender Date will have priority over any Notes validly tendered after the Early Tender Date.

All Notes not accepted as a result of proration or otherwise will be rejected from the Offer and will be promptly returned to the tendering Holder.

Conditions

CFE's obligation to accept for purchase, and to pay for, any Notes validly tendered pursuant to the Offer, is conditioned upon the satisfaction of certain customary conditions as described in the Offer to Purchase. CFE reserves the right, in its sole discretion, to waive any and all conditions of the Offer. The Offer is not conditioned on any minimum amount of Notes being tendered.

The Dealer Managers

CFE has retained BNP Paribas Securities Corp., Citigroup Global Markets Inc., Morgan Stanley & Co. LLC and SMBC Nikko Securities America, Inc. to act as dealer managers in connection with the Offer (the "Dealer Managers"). Any questions or requests for assistance regarding the Offer may be directed to the Dealer Managers at their contact information set forth below.

BNP Paribas Securities Corp.

787 Seventh Avenue

New York, New York 10019

United States of America Attn: Liability Management Group Email: [email protected] Toll Free: +1 888-210-4358 Collect: +1 212-841-3059 Citigroup Global Markets Inc.

388 Greenwich Street , Trading 4th Floor

New York, New York 10013

United States of America Attn: Liability Management Group Email: [email protected] Toll-Free: +1 800-558-3745 Collect: +1 212-723-6106

Morgan Stanley & Co. LLC 1585 Broadway , 6th Floor New York, New York 10019 United States of America Attn: Global Debt Advisory Group Toll-Free: +1 800-624-1808 Collect: +1 212-761-1057 SMBC Nikko Securities America, Inc.

277 Park Avenue New York, New York 10172

United States of America Email: [email protected] Attn: Debt Capital Markets  Liability Management Toll-Free: +1 888-284-9760 Collect: +1 212-224-5163

The Tender Agent and the Information Agent

Copies of the Offer to Purchase may be obtained from Global Bondholder Services Corporation, the tender agent and the information agent for the Offer, at +1 (855) 654-2015 (toll-free) or +1 (212) 430-3774 (collect).

Disclaimer

This press release must be read in conjunction with the Offer to Purchase. This announcement and the Offer to Purchase contain important information which must be read carefully before any decision is made with respect to the Offer. If any holder of Notes is in any doubt as to the action it should take, it is recommended to seek its own legal, tax, accounting and financial advice, including as to any tax consequences, immediately from its stockbroker, bank manager, attorney, accountant or other independent financial or legal adviser. Any individual or company whose Notes are held on its behalf by a broker, dealer, bank, custodian, trust company or other nominee or intermediary must contact such entity if it wishes to participate in the Offer. None of the Company, the Dealer Managers, the Tender Agent and the Information Agent and any person who controls, or is a director, officer, employee or agent of any such person, or any affiliate of any such person, makes any recommendation as to whether holders of Notes should participate in the Offer.

The Offer to Purchase has not been filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, nor has it been filed with or reviewed by any federal or state securities commission or regulatory authority of any country. No authority has passed upon the accuracy or adequacy of the Offer to Purchase, and it is unlawful and may be a criminal offense to make any representation to the contrary.

THE INFORMATION CONTAINED HEREIN AND IN THE OFFER TO PURCHASE IS EXCLUSIVELY CFE'S RESPONSIBILITY AND HAS NOT BEEN REVIEWED OR AUTHORIZED BY THE MEXICAN NATIONAL BANKING AND SECURITIES COMMISSION (COMISION NACIONAL BANCARIA Y DE VALORES, OR THE "CNBV"). CFE HAS NOT FILED AND WILL NOT FILE WITH THE CNBV A REQUEST FOR AUTHORIZATION OF THE OFFER. THE OFFER DOES NOT CONSTITUTE A PUBLIC OFFERING (OFERTA PUBLICA) OF ANY KIND (INCLUDING AN OFERTA PUBLICA DE ADQUISICION) IN MEXICO AND IT MAY NOT BE PUBLICLY DISTRIBUTED IN MEXICO . THE OFFER MAY ONLY BE MADE AVAILABLE IN MEXICO TO INVESTORS THAT QUALIFY AS INSTITUTIONAL OR ACCREDITED INVESTORS (INVERSIONISTAS INSTITUCIONALES OR INVERSIONISTAS CALIFICADOS), SOLELY PURSUANT TO THE PRIVATE OFFERING EXEMPTION SET FORTH IN NUMERAL I. OF ARTICLE 8 OF THE MEXICAN SECURITIES MARKET LAW (LEY DEL MERCADO DE VALORES ). IN MAKING A DECISION AS TO WHETHER TO TENDER ANY OF THEIR NOTES, ALL HOLDERS MUST RELY ON THEIR OWN REVIEW AND EXAMINATION OF THE TERMS OF THE OFFER. CFE WILL NOTIFY THE CNBV OF THE RESULTS OF THE OFFER FOR INFORMATIONAL AND STATISTICAL PURPOSES ONLY, AND THE FILING OR RECEIPT OF SUCH NOTICE BY THE CNBV DOES NOT IMPLY ANY CERTIFICATION AS TO THE INVESTMENT QUALITY OF THE NOTES, CFE'S SOLVENCY, LIQUIDITY OR CREDIT QUALITY OR THE ACCURACY OR COMPLETENESS OF THE INFORMATION SET FORTH HEREIN.

The Offer is being made solely on the terms and conditions set forth in the Offer to Purchase. Under no circumstances shall this press release constitute an offer to buy or the solicitation of an offer to sell the Notes or any other securities of the Company or any of its subsidiaries. The Offer is not being made to, nor will the Company accept tenders of Notes from, holders in any jurisdiction in which the Offer or the acceptance thereof would not be in compliance with the securities or blue sky laws of such jurisdiction.

Forward-Looking Statements

Statements in this press release may be forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are information of a non-historical nature or which relate to future events and are subject to risks and uncertainties. No assurance can be given that the transactions described herein will be consummated or as to the ultimate terms of any such transactions. CFE undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information or future events or for any other reason.

Media Contact: Carlos Guevara Vega +52 55 5705 3279 [email protected]

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SOURCE Comision Federal de Electricidad
FAIRLAWN, Ohio , Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- For the fourth year in a row, Crystal Clinic Orthopaedic Center was named one of America's 100 Best Hospitals for Spine Surgery Excellence by Healthgrades, an online healthcare database that analyzes clinical outcomes in U.S. hospitals across 32 procedures and conditions. Crystal Clinic Orthopaedic Center is one of only three hospitals in Ohio to make the list for superior clinical outcomes in back and neck surgeries, and spinal fusion.

To measure performance, Healthgrades uses Medicare inpatient data from the most recent three-year period available. Methodologies adjust for each patient's risk factors, including age, gender and medical condition.

Crystal Clinic's six board-certified spine surgeons have all completed specialized fellowship training in the surgical care of the spine, reflecting the highest level of training in their specialty. This includes Richard Brower , M.D.; Carrie Diulus , M.D.; Douglas Ehrler , M.D.; Scot Miller , D.O.; Brad Picha , M.D.; and Rajiv Taliwal , M.D.

"I applaud our team of spine surgeons for their commitment to providing unparalleled patient outcomes," said Paul Fleissner , M.D., Crystal Clinic's Board Chair and an orthopaedic surgeon. "As a leader in spine care, Crystal Clinic has invested in advanced robotic technology that allows for extreme precision in spinal surgery, with our surgeons performing more spinal robotic surgeries than any other hospital in the state. It is through the use of such leading technologies, combined with the skill of our experienced surgeons, that Crystal Clinic is nationally-renowned for orthopaedic care."

For more information on Healthgrades' methodology, visit healthgrades.com/quality/ratings-awards/methodology.

To schedule an appointment with a Crystal Clinic spine surgeon, call 888-556-7575 or request an appointment online at CrystalClinic.com.

About Crystal Clinic Orthopaedic Center

Nationally renowned for orthopaedic care, Crystal Clinic Orthopaedic Center is a physician-owned, orthopaedic specialty hospital system with board-certified/board-eligible surgeons, most with advanced fellowship credentials in their orthopaedic specialty, who collectively perform thousands of surgeries annually. Crystal Clinic has 17 locations throughout Northeast Ohio , and a highly advanced, state-of-the-art surgical hospital devoted exclusively to orthopaedics and plastic/reconstructive care.

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SOURCE Crystal Clinic Orthopaedic Center
TORONTO , Aug. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ - Cybeats Technologies Corp. ("Cybeats'' or the "Company") (CSE: CYBT) (OTCQB: CYBCF) is pleased to report on the signing of a new license agreement to provide the Cybeats solution, SBOM Studio 1, to another Top 5 global Medical Device Manufacturer ("MDM"). With this engagement, SBOM Studio becomes the chosen SBOM management platform for three of the world's Top 10 MDMs.2

Recently securing several contracts with leading MDMs illustrates Cybeats' accelerated commercial success in the $18 billion healthcare cybersecurity sector3, and positions it as an SBOM management leader in this space. Cybeats has now partnered with three of the Top 10 MDMs, and is also engaged in trial evaluations and late-stage contract negotiations with several other global MDM leaders.4

"Winning yet another contract with a leader from the medical device space highlights the value and efficacy of SBOM Studio and the teams' dedication to servicing some of the largest companies worldwide. The product solves urgent cybersecurity market needs, especially amidst regulatory shifts for healthcare technology that include mandated FDA requirements for the use of SBOMs," said Gonda Lamberink , VP Sales, Cybeats.5

"We are proud and excited to add another client of this caliber to our growing clientele. Due to the severity of the FDA mandates, SBOM management for the medical device industry is arguably the most demanding and critical to maintain - being chosen by 3 of the top 10 in the world is a testament to our dedication to providing the market with a unique and effective solution," said Yoav Raiter , CEO, Cybeats.

Rapid healthcare cybersecurity growth has been fueled by the amended FD&C Act's section 524B - 'Ensuring Cybersecurity of Medical Devices' from earlier this year. SBOM Studio delivers comprehensive software supply chain intelligence technology, empowering MDMs to manage Software Bill of Materials ("SBOM") and proactively address cyber risks in their medical devices. This new contract emphasizes SBOM Studio as a chosen solution for tier 1 companies, and Cybeats as a leading provider in the high-valued and strategically targeted healthcare sector, which has an estimated value of $38 billion by 2028.6

FDA & Medical Device Security

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration's ("FDA") role in regulating medical device cybersecurity has significantly increased due to its authority to approve or reject premarket submissions based on compliance with section 524B of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act ("FD&C Act").7 This section mandates that MDMs provide a SBOM for their devices' commercial, open-source, and off-the-shelf software components.

The FDA's Refuse-to-Accept ("RTA") authority emphasizes the significance of SBOM management solutions like SBOM Studio . This contract, along with several recent wins from the medical device sector, underscores the Company's growing expertise in the healthcare industry and increasing demand for effective SBOM management.

The ability to institute an RTA decision emphasizes the FDA's dedication to medical device cybersecurity and the importance of SBOMs for a transparent and accountable software supply chain. The Consolidated Appropriations Act ("Omnibus"), signed into law in late 2022, amended the FD&C Act's section 524B, titled 'Ensuring Cybersecurity of Medical Devices'. This requires MDMs to disclose a comprehensive list of software components used in their devices, including third-party and open-source elements, and address postmarket vulnerabilities with patches.

To proactively manage cybersecurity risks, MDMs must maintain an accurate inventory of device components, develop vulnerability management and risk assessment processes, provide device patches, and maintain device change records. The urgent need for managing vast amounts of SBOM data has created a large and growing addressable market for solutions like SBOM Studio .

About Cybeats

Cybeats is a cybersecurity company providing SBOM management and software supply chain intelligence technology, helping organizations to manage risk, meet compliance requirements, and secure their software from procurement to development and operation. Our platform gives customers comprehensive visibility and transparency into their software supply chain, enabling them to improve operational efficiency and increase revenue. Cybeats. Software Made Certain. Website: https://cybeats.com

SUBSCRIBE: For more information, or to subscribe to the Company's mail list, visit: https://www.cybeats.com/investors

Forward-looking Information Cautionary Statement

Except for statements of historic fact, this news release contains certain "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities law. Forward-looking information is frequently characterized by words such as "plan", "expect", "project", "intend", "believe", "anticipate", "estimate" and other similar words, or statements that certain events or conditions "may" or "will" occur. Forward-looking statements are based on the opinions and estimates at the date the statements are made, and are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those anticipated in the forward-looking statements including, but not limited to delays or uncertainties with regulatory approvals, including that of the CSE. There are uncertainties inherent in forward-looking information, including factors beyond the Company's control. There are no assurances that the commercialization plans for the products described in this news release will come into effect on the terms or time frame described herein. The Company undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking information if circumstances or management's estimates or opinions should change except as required by law. The reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Company filings are available at sedar.com.

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SOURCE Cybeats Technologies Corp.
Winners demonstrated excellence in sustainability, safety and community service

CHARLOTTE, N.C. , Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Duke Energy has chosen eight organizations to receive its 2023 Power Partner Award.

The annual program founded in 1992 honors businesses and other organizations that have demonstrated excellence in sustainability, safety, service, and problem solving.

"We value our large commercial, industrial and government customers and encourage them to strive for organizational excellence," said Chris Edge , Duke Energy vice president of large business customers. "All the winners awarded this year have innovated in ways that benefit their employees, stakeholders and greater community."

The 2023 Power Partner award-winning organizations are:

Alamance-Burlington School System

Burlington, N.C.

Category: Sustainability Excellence

The Alamance-Burlington School System (ABSS) is a school district covering Alamance County and the city of Burlington, N.C. , with an enrollment of approximately 23,000 students. The school system is committed to participation in Duke Energy's Energy Efficiency (EE) Design Assistance programs for new facilities and has enrolled facilities in extensive retrofitting projects resulting in valuable energy savings.

Milliken & Company

Spartanburg, S.C.

Category: Sustainability Excellence

Milliken & Company, an industrial manufacturer of textiles, floor coverings and chemicals, works closely with Duke Energy to develop economically viable solutions to meet their desired 2025 sustainability goals. Milliken's Magnolia/Allen plant in Blacksburg, S.C. , opted into Duke Energy's EE programs, using its custom performance incentives to eliminate coal as an on-site fuel source and to significantly reduce air pollutant emissions. Also, as part of Duke Energy's net metering program, Milliken installed two solar arrays at their Roger Milliken Center (RMC) Global Headquarters.

Evonik

Tippecanoe, Ind.

Category: Safety Partnership

Evonik, a German based chemical company, partnered with Duke Energy to strengthen the safety culture at its Tippecanoe Laboratory site. Through this partnership, Evonik and the Duke Energy Lafayette Distribution Operations Team performed "Safety Days," a series of live-line demonstrations designed to communicate everyday best safety practices to Evonik employees. Evonik also worked with Duke Energy to install warning signage underneath on-site high voltage lines and sought consultation on safe vegetation clearing practices.

Catawba College

Salisbury, N.C.

Category: Sustainability Excellence

Catawba College, a longtime customer of Duke Energy, was recently recognized for becoming the first campus in North Carolina and the Southeast to achieve carbon neutrality. Duke Energy Sustainable Solutions (DESS) assisted Catawba College with the development of a sustainability plan that got them to this goal. In addition, the college used DESS resources to upgrade their campus electric system and implement a campus-wide metering system to track their energy usage. Working together with Duke Energy, the college was able to achieve their 2030 goal of carbon neutrality seven years ahead of schedule.

Duke University

Durham, N.C.

Category: Sustainability Excellence

Duke University has established the Duke Climate Commitment, a university-wide initiative to address climate change. To advance this initiative, the university is a participant in Duke Energy's Green Source Advantage (GSA) Program, which enabled the construction of three solar arrays totaling 100.9 MW of renewable generation. In addition, the university has installed net-metered solar arrays, totaling approximately 876 kW of clean energy.

Purdue Research Foundation

West Lafayette, Ind.

Category: Service Excellence

Purdue Research Foundation (PRF) has two major development sites within Duke Energy Indiana's service territory, Purdue Research Park and Discovery Park District . Both sites are creating jobs and bringing capital investment to the West Lafayette, IN community. Three projects have broken ground at these sites in 2023: the Rolls-Royce High Altitude Test Facility, Rolls-Royce Hybrid Electric Test Facility, and Ascension St. Vincent Hospital campus. Duke Energy Indiana and PRF have partnered closely to develop a long-term planning strategy to accommodate future growth at these facilities.

FUJIFILM Diosynth Biotech USA

Holly Springs, N.C.

Category: Solution Innovation

In March 2021 , FujiFilm Diosynth announced that Holly Springs, N.C. had been selected for their new cell production site. By 2025, FujiFilm will invest $2 billion into the site and surrounding community, creating 725 skilled jobs that pay an average of $100,000 . Duke Energy will serve the 16 MW campus, which will be the largest culture bio-pharmaceutical contract development and manufacturing organization (CDMO) in North America . The facility will enable FujiFilm to produce transformative medicine to meet market demand. FujiFilm has also partnered with Duke Energy to provide backup generation to the site through a 15-year Premier Power agreement. Further, the design and construction of the campus will align with Fujifilm's Sustainable Value Plan.

Toray Resin Company

Shelbyville, Ind.

Category: Sustainability Excellence

Toray Resin Company, an international plastics manufacturer, partnered with Duke Energy to construct a solar energy facility capable of producing up to 900 kilowatts of power at its campus in Shelbyville, Ind. Toray Resin Company signed up to be the first participant in Duke Energy Indiana's solar services pilot program, which aims to make it easier for businesses, schools and nonprofits to incorporate clean, renewable energy sources into their energy mix. Under the program, Duke Energy owns, operates and maintains the Blue River Solar Facility on Toray Resin's campus for a monthly service fee. The program provides Toray Resin with the advantages of clean energy while minimizing upfront costs and maintenance obligations. Construction on the 8-acre, ground-mounted solar project began in October 2021 , and it was brought into service in 2023.

Duke Energy

Duke Energy (NYSE: DUK), a Fortune 150 company headquartered in Charlotte, N.C. , is one of America's largest energy holding companies. Its electric utilities serve 8.2 million customers in North Carolina , South Carolina , Florida , Indiana , Ohio and Kentucky , and collectively own 50,000 megawatts of energy capacity. Its natural gas unit serves 1.6 million customers in North Carolina , South Carolina , Tennessee , Ohio and Kentucky . The company employs 27,600 people.

Duke Energy is executing an aggressive clean energy transition to achieve its goals of net-zero methane emissions from its natural gas business by 2030 and net-zero carbon emissions from electricity generation by 2050. The company has interim carbon emission targets of at least 50% reduction from electric generation by 2030, 50% for Scope 2 and certain Scope 3 upstream and downstream emissions by 2035, and 80% from electric generation by 2040. In addition, the company is investing in major electric grid enhancements and energy storage, and exploring zero-emission power generation technologies such as hydrogen and advanced nuclear.

Duke Energy was named to Fortune's 2023 "World's Most Admired Companies" list and Forbes' "World's Best Employers" list. More information is available at duke-energy.com. The Duke Energy News Center contains news releases, fact sheets, photos and videos. Duke Energy's illumination features stories about people, innovations, community topics and environmental issues. Follow Duke Energy on Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook.

Contact: 24-Hour media line: 800.559.3853

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SOURCE Duke Energy
MINNEAPOLIS , Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- ENT Partners, LLC, a leading Physician Practice Management Company (PPMC) announced that Chicago ENT one of the largest ear, nose, and throat practices in Illinois , and part of the ENT Partners family of practices has opened its newest practice location at Ascension Saint Joseph Hospital in the Lakeview area of Chicago on August 29, 2023 . Chicago ENT-Lakeview, located at 2845 N. Sheridan Rd. , Suite 807 Chicago, IL , 60657 will provide comprehensive ENT, audiology, sleep, allergy, and facial plastic care to both adult and pediatric patients.

"We are delighted to announce the opening of our sixth office, where we proudly offer ENT services tailored to our patients' needs. Our commitment to providing exceptional care extends to ensuring convenient access, with same-day or next-day appointments available. This endeavor strengthens our partnership with Ascension, allowing us to extend comprehensive ENT services to both inpatients and outpatients at St. Mary's Hospital, St. Joseph's Hospital, and St. Francis Hospital. We're excited to continue enhancing the health and well-being of our community," said Dr. Michael Friedman , Medical Director.

Chicago ENT has six convenient locations in Chicago and one in the near north suburb of Skokie. The new location will have 8 exam rooms, 3 procedure rooms, 2 audiology rooms and an allergy suite. Providers will be able to see more patients in a modern, state-of-the-art setting.

The clinic offers the latest innovations for the diagnosis and treatment of a full range of otolaryngological conditions, including sleep disorders, sinus conditions, allergy testing, thyroid conditions, hearing loss and facial cosmetic procedures.

Chicago ENT-Lakeview will be staffed by 3 board-certified otolaryngologists Jacob Friedman , MD, Adam Levy , MD and TK Venkatesan, MD, a pediatric otolaryngologist, Kathryn Colman , MD an allergist Kirk Shepard , MD, audiologist Stephanie Feller , AuD, and a facial plastic & reconstructive surgeon Caroline Hudson , MD.

"Expanding our footprint and health-system relationships across the Chicagoland area is a great step for ENT Partners," said Jim Feinstein CEO of ENT Partners. "We are thrilled to have the opportunity to bring Chicago ENT's high level of patient care to the Lakeview community and the incremental patient population St. Joe's has to offer."

Patients may schedule appointments at Chicago ENT - Lakeview through their website, ChicagoENT.com, or by calling 773.296.5500.

About ENT Partners

ENT Partners is committed to helping doctors provide comprehensive ENT patient care and growing practices by decreasing administrative burdens and distracting operational tasks. ENTP helps physician practices of every size - from solo to large groups - through a wide range of consulting services. ENTP partner practices are located across 20 locations in the Midwest and the East Coast .

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SOURCE ENT Partners
The funding will support Intuition Robotics' growth as demand surges for loneliness interventions, and fuel its continued development of ElliQ's relationship and conversational capabilities, powered by generative AI and deep utilization of Large Language Models (LLMs)

RAMAT GAN, Israel , Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Intuition Robotics announced today that it has secured a first closing of a new funding round amounting to $25 million , $20M in venture capital and $5M in venture debt, and led by Woven Capital, the growth fund of Toyota, with participation from Toyota Ventures, OurCrowd, Western Technology Investment, and additional investors. The funding will help the company meet surging demand for its AI care companion ElliQ across government aging agencies and healthcare organizations. It will also allow the company to deepen integrations into the healthcare system and help aging populations better connect with others, and better access much-needed products and services while reducing costs.

Loneliness is an epidemic that can cause serious harm to health, with the U. S. Surgeon General recently advising that experiencing loneliness can increase the risk of death equivalent to smoking 15 cigarettes a day. The U.S. healthcare system is increasingly seeking solutions, with legislation recently introduced to create a national policy to promote social connection and address soaring rates of loneliness.

Intuition Robotics has pioneered ElliQ , an AI companion designed to enhance the lives of older adults by combating loneliness and promoting healthy and independent living. In an era dominated by groundbreaking technologies, ElliQ has consistently demonstrated its ability to engage users over time and positively impact the lives of older individuals with its proactive suggestions and conversational capabilities. ElliQ provides companionship and support for older adults through daily health check-ins, cognitive and physical activities, connection to family and friends, and more using a simple and intuitive interface.

"Intuition Robotics is advancing the future of mobility for aging populations by offering human connection and access to goods and services that they couldn't obtain otherwise," said Nicole LeBlanc , a partner at Woven Capital who is also joining the company's board of directors. "The company is leading the way by providing a field-proven solution that delivers strong results, improving social infrastructure and serving overlooked markets in unique, thoughtful, and powerful ways. These are precisely the values behind the future of mobility that Toyota is bringing to life, making Intuition Robotics a natural fit for Woven Capital."

The funding round comes on the heels of a successful commercial launch with government agencies across the United States . Intuition Robotics has initiated programs to distribute ElliQ at no cost to end users with the New York State Office for the Aging, the Area Agency on Aging of Broward County, the Olympic Area Agency on Aging, and California's Agency on Aging in Area 4. In addition, the company signed its first agreement with a Managed Care Organization focusing on Medicare beneficiaries. In the state of New York , the product has shown unprecedented engagement levels with users averaging over 30 interactions with ElliQ per day. It has been proven to reduce loneliness for 95% of users .

The latest advancements in Generative AI and the prevalence of transformers and Large Language Models (LLMs) have allowed Intuition Robotics to integrate rich and continuous conversational experiences into ElliQ. By leveraging these advancements, ElliQ has deepened its conversational abilities, allowing for an even deeper relationship to evolve between ElliQ and the user. The company has developed technology that chooses the areas where to integrate multiple LLMs seamlessly into the experiences such as sparking the creativity of the users by painting with ElliQ through the use of DALLE2, augmenting scripted conversations, and achieving deeper contextual understanding. This is done with guardrails and algorithmic control on the integrity of the experience.

"We've seen the direct impact that loneliness has had on our aging community, but we've also seen the positive results our AI and technology have on the older adult population. Beyond the groundbreaking results in reducing loneliness - ElliQ is also seeing an impact on health, wellness, and behavior change," said Dor Skuler , CEO and Co-founder of Intuition Robotics. "The latest advancements in AI have advanced ElliQ's conversational capabilities to become even more contextual, personalized, and goal driven. We're proud to be at the forefront of harnessing this technology for the benefit of our users. We are excited to utilize this new funding to deploy more ElliQ devices out into the world, further increase its accessibility, expand partnerships, and gain a deeper understanding of the role ElliQ can play in the healthcare ecosystem. We are grateful for the support of Woven Capital and our additional investors as we continue our mission to empower older adults to live happier, healthier, and more independent lives at home,"

"Since we first invested in Intuition Robotics in 2017, we've been inspired by the team's mission to empower older adults using AI. It's exciting to see the progress they've made over the years  from ElliQ's initial development and testing, to the commercial deployment and now a growing number of partnerships," said Jim Adler , founder and general partner of Toyota Ventures. "We share the company's vision of using technology to amplify the human experience and look forward to seeing how ElliQ will continue to enrich the lives of older adults."

About Intuition Robotics

Intuition Robotics is on a mission to empower older adults to live happier, healthier, and more independent lives at home. The company's award-winning product, ElliQ, is a proactive care companion for older adults. ElliQ helps keep users healthy, engaged, and informed, while alleviating the effects of loneliness and social isolation. Intuition Robotics has won several awards for its work with ElliQ including Fast Company's Most Innovative Companies and the CES Best of Innovation award. The company was founded in 2016 and investors include: Woven Capital, Toyota Ventures, Samsung NEXT, iRobot, OurCrowd, Terra Ventures and Venture Capital firms from California , Israel , Japan , and Asia . To learn more, please visit intuitionrobotics.com.

Media Contact

Jennifer Laski

Si14 Global Communications

irpr@si14global.com

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SOURCE Intuition Robotics
TAIPEI , Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- GIGABYTE, the world's leading computer brand, proudly announces the Z790 AORUS X Gen motherboards. The Z790 AORUS X Gen motherboards are built to drive the DDR5 memory faster and take Intel's next-gen processors to the next level of performance. The lineup also comes with a variety of upgraded features, from new DIY-friendly innovations, the efficient overall thermal design, Ultra Durable reinforcements, to the cutting-edge Wi-Fi 7 support.

The Z790 AORUS X Gen motherboards are engineered to achieve the best-in-class DDR5 overclocking compatibility of up to XMP 8200 MT/s or higher, delivering lightning-fast memory performance across the board. Users can also reliably auto boost their DDR5 modules through the BIOS with ease. Furthermore, AORUS has exclusively partnered with HWiNFO to introduce a memory timing readout application, for OC enthusiasts to tweak the performance at their wills.

Following the previous success of the EZ-Latch designs on PCIe and M.2 slots, AORUS now introduces a new M.2 EZ-Latch Click to the collections of DIY-friendly innovations. The M.2 EZ-Latch Click enables screwless removal and mounting of the enlarged M.2 heatsink, and thus makes the M.2 SSD swap easier than ever. The BIOS is also redesigned as user-centered and rebranded "UC BIOS", featuring a more intuitive user experience with customizable Quick Access function. DIY enthusiasts can now build effortlessly with the Z790 AORUS X Gen motherboards.

To unleash the next-gen performance requires a robust VRM power design, and that's where the VRM Thermal Armor and the M.2 Thermal Guard step in and keep your system cool while running fast. The X Gen motherboards are reinforced with Ultra Durable technology to ensure long-lasting reliability, and the new PCIe UD Slot X offers 10 times stronger load-bearing capacity to provide extra protection for graphics cards.

Catering to diverse segments of the gaming community, the Z790 AORUS X Gen motherboards offer 7 featured models. The flagship XTREME X is well-equipped with top-tier components in every aspect, while the MASTER X easily handles every performance-demanding task. The PRO X comes in a unique sleek white shroud, perfect for those wanting to build an aesthetically pleasing gaming system. The ELITE X offers DIY beginners a smart choice to build and go for an elite level of gaming.

For in-depth information about the Z790 AORUS X Gen motherboards and their unparalleled support for Intel's next-gen processors, please visit https://bit.ly/AORUS_Z790_X.

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SOURCE GIGABYTE
BROOKFIELD, Wis. , Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Hydrite, an integrated manufacturer and supplier of chemicals and related services, is pleased to announce and welcome Steve Tienvieri as Senior Lead Microbiologist. Tienvieri will be responsible for leading microbiological troubleshooting, developing relevant and practical strategies to food safety techniques and processes, championing Hydrite Academy, and managing food safety and sanitation technical training, program development, and adjacent technology.

Tienvieri joins Hydrite with over 26 years of experience in food microbiology and food manufacturing. His background is extensive and includes Safe Quality Food (SQF), audits, regulatory, environmental monitoring and investigations, Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP) and Preventive Controls (PC), and food quality/food safety plan development and employee training. Tienvieri is also a Preventive Controls Qualified Individual (PCQI) certified trainer.

"I am excited to continue growing in my career and join Hydrite's team of microbiologists. I have an opportunity to shape strategy and play a part in Hydrite's commitment to food safety," Tienvieri said.

Hydrite Technical Director Mitch Fay commented, "We are excited to welcome Steve to the Hydrite business family. Steve fills a valuable role within Hydrite as we continue to grow and add value to our customers. We look forward to his contributions as he brings a unique perspective and experience to connect with customers, suppliers, and industry agencies to make a significant impact."

As a company with a strong commitment to safety, quality, and service, Hydrite continues to invest in people, research, quality control, and training to offer products and systems that enhance the quality of food supply and help deliver creative solutions.

To learn more, visit www.hydrite.com or call 262-792-1450.

About Hydrite

Hydrite, a family-owned company established in 1929, is one of the largest independent providers of chemicals and related services in the United States. Headquartered in Brookfield, Wisconsin , Hydrite has a network of manufacturing facilities, warehouses, and laboratories located in Illinois , Wisconsin , Iowa , Indiana , California , and Texas with nearly 1,000 employees in 25 states. Hydrite owns and operates a private fleet of over 255 units including tractors, van trailers, tankers, and railcars.

Hydrite offers expertise in chemical distribution and manufacturing, food and dairy sanitation, organic processing, liquid sulfites, foam control, and water treatment chemistries.

With over 5,000 items in its product portfolio, Hydrite's dedicated chemists, engineers, and technical service staff have extensive knowledge and experience to solve the most challenging formulation problems. Hydrite has a strong commitment to quality and customer responsiveness, and offers superior products and innovative solutions.

Media Contact:

Judy Allen

262-792-1450

[email protected]

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SOURCE Hydrite
The presidential amnesty initiative complements other important initiatives marking the new decade in Egypt, among them the National Dialogue and the National Strategy for Human Rights.

Looking at the progress that has been achieved between September 2021 and today without also looking at the decade between 2013 and 2023 and analysing it without reference to the political, economic, social, and international context could lead to many premature conclusions.

If we start from the most recent events, President Abdel-Fattah Al-Sisi has recently used his constitutional powers to grant an amnesty to individuals who played a political or media role in the period after the 25 January Revolution and to release them from prison. Thus far, this presidential initiative has benefited some 1,500 people who had been imprisoned as a result of offences having to do with public demonstrations and the expression of opinions on social media.

However, names such as those of Ahmed Duma, Omar Al-Sheneti, Mohamed Al-Baqer, Yehya Hussein Abdel-Hadi, Ziad El-Elaimy, and Hossam Moanis, among others, all individuals who have recently benefitted from presidential pardons, are particularly important and need to be considered in more detail.

The presidential amnesty initiative was launched in April 2022 at the same time as the National Dialogue, whose outcomes will be the object of public discussion and political action over the coming weeks. The National Strategy for Human Rights, the first comprehensive document setting out a road map for the implementation of international and constitutional human rights in Egypt, was also launched in September 2021 just months before the call was launched for the National Dialogue.

An announcement was also made that the state of emergency in the country would not be extended for the first time since 1952, and the National Council for Human Rights was refounded four years after the issuance of amended Law 197 of 2017.

The question arises whether such initiatives, all taking place between 2021 and 2023, were a departure from what had preceded them and whether they were a departure from policies adhered to over the previous eight years from 2013 to 2021. Answers may differ according to the views of different political currents and their views on the achievements of the 30 June Revolution.

The fact is that in the eight years after 2013 Egypt faced a war of existence. After the 30 June Revolution, the Muslim Brotherhood chose to ally with organisations promoting armed violence and terrorism. It was not enough for the Brotherhood to harness its media platforms to provide political and economic support for terrorist factions in Sinai and the Nile Valley, but it also turned to its old recipe of establishing cells practising terrorism and violence.

The confusion in the wider region, the collapse of entire states such as in Libya, Syria, and Yemen, and the tendency of some regimes to support terrorist organisations all made the period from 2011 to 2020 a fertile period for terrorism, and Egypt was a major target. Various terrorist organisations and their supporters focused their evil efforts on bringing Egypt down, preventing it from reaching stability, undermining its economic capabilities, and minimising its political role at the regional level.

The challenge of terrorism over the past decade was an existential threat to Egypt, as over the course of 90 months some 3,300 Egyptian citizens and soldiers were killed in a struggle that cost the state some LE90 billion, according to statements by President Al-Sisi. An important study by the Ministry of Social Solidarity and the Egyptian Centre for Strategic Studies indicates that the economic cost of terrorist operations in relation to GDP amounted to LE385 billion in the period from 2011 to 2016.

One of the indicators of the nature of this threat came in the targets focused on by the terrorist groups. According to a study by researcher Ahmed Kamel Al-Beheiri published by Al-Ahram Centre for Political and Strategic Studies in 2017 entitled Terrorist Operations: Trajectories and Characteristics Since January 2011, there were 1,003 terrorist operations from July 2014 to January 2017. The targets of these varied and were no longer limited to members of the armed forces and police, but also expanded to targeting the electricity network, infrastructure, means of transportation, the courts and judges, as well as churches and mosques across Egypt.

More than 300 worshippers were killed in a terrorist attack on the mosque in the village of Al-Rawda in North Sinai, for example.

Any honest evaluation of the states performance over the past ten years will show that it has achieved a decisive victory against terrorism and prevented it from achieving any of its political goals. Perhaps the presidential decision not to renew the state of emergency in October 2021 for the first time in six decades and the announcement of an unprecedented programme for the development and reconstruction of Sinai last February are expressions of the enormous gains that Egypt has been making. We can all agree that these things have only been possible because of the enormous sacrifices made by Egyptian citizens in the armed forces and the police and by the loyal citizens of Sinai.

It would not have been reasonable for the state to confront the threat of terrorism with inadequate tools, and therefore strict legislative procedures were introduced during this period. The government issued several legislative amendments or introduced legislation to provide legal support for those standing in the line of fire and at the forefront of the confrontation, with these targeting both the financing and the incitement dimensions of terrorism and the logistical and media support from which the terrorist groups were benefiting.

At the beginning of the present decade, the situation stabilised in Sinai and the Nile Valley. The capabilities of the terrorist organisations have been undermined, and their supporters have been forced to reconsider their positions. Over the past two years, initiatives related to political freedoms and human rights have also taken place.

A review of the facts allows us to understand the background to President Al-Sisis using his constitutional powers to issue amnesties to those who had been sentenced under strict legal procedures to periods in jail. From a national-security perspective, such strict procedures were justified in the past, but today the situation has changed, and they are now no longer as necessary as they once were.

Today, we need to leave the past decade behind and to focus instead on the future and the significant questions it raises. What should the state do over the next ten years to preserve the gains it has made from the victory over terrorism? What reforms should be introduced in policies and legislative tools to make them suitable for the future? What further positive steps should be taken towards enhancing political and civil liberties, as well as human rights? What policies should be introduced to empower the political parties, elected councils, and civil society organisations and enhance their contributions to policymaking?

The state is a dynamic entity that interacts with and responds to changes in the economic, social, and security context. As a result, we can all expect it to act with suitable dynamism in bringing about more positive changes in the climate of rights and freedoms in Egypt over the next decade and beyond.

* The writer is a member of the National Council for Human Rights.

* A version of this article appears in print in the 31 August, 2023 edition of Al-Ahram Weekly

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Evidence for ESSA's review of Imagine Math research indicates promising evidence of program effectiveness

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. , Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- A research study from Imagine Learning, the largest provider of digital curriculum solutions in the U.S. , serving over 15 million students, received an ESSA Promising rating from Evidence for ESSA, a website produced by the Center for Research and Reform in Education at Johns Hopkins University that promotes the use of programs that meet ESSA evidence standards.

"Studies like this provide evidence that Imagine Math helps students learn, grow, and reach their academic potential."

Evidence for ESSA reviewed Imagine Learning's study Impact Evaluation of Imagine Math in a Charter School Network, and published their review in June 2023 , indicating the research provides promising evidence of significant, positive impact for students in grades K-8.

"Educators are rightfully searching for educational programs with a proven record of effectiveness in helping students achieve learning gains," said Sari Factor , Vice Chair and Chief Strategy Officer at Imagine Learning. "The research reviewed by Evidence for ESSA demonstrates Imagine Learning's commitment to ensure that our products optimize learning outcomes for students. Our mission is to inspire learning breakthroughs for students, and studies like this provide evidence that Imagine Math helps students learn, grow, and reach their academic potential."

For the Impact Evaluation of Imagine Math in a Charter School Network study, Imagine Learning partnered with a charter school network in the southeastern region of the United States to evaluate how Imagine Math impacted students' academic performance in mathematics. In total, 9,015 users of the Imagine Math program in Kindergarten through Grade 8 were compared to 9,015 statistically similar students in Florida and North Carolina .

The research was designed to retroactively compare the academic performance of students who used Imagine Math with those who did not during the 20202021 school year. Results showed that students in grades K-8 who used Imagine Math scored significantly higher on the Spring 2021 administration of the NWEA MAP Growth Math test than did similar comparison students. Similarly, results by grade level showed statistically higher performance for students in Grades 1 through 8 who used Imagine Math. Thus, the study provided evidence that the use of Imagine Math supports students' mathematics achievement.

Evidence for ESSA vets educational research through rigorous review "to provide clear and authoritative information on programs that meet the ESSA evidence standards and enable educators and communities to select effective educational tools to improve student success." Congress passed the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) in 2015 as the federal law governing K-12 education. Within the bill are stipulations supporting the use of federal dollars on educational programs with evidence of effectiveness.

About Imagine Learning

Imagine Learning creates K12 digital-first solutions, fueled by insights from educators, that evolve with the ever-changing demands of tomorrow. We work alongside educators to support over 15 million students in over half of the districts nationwide. Our core portfolio includes Twig Science, Imagine Learning Illustrative Mathematics, and Imagine Learning EL Education. Our robust supplemental and intervention suite equips learners with insightful and personalized instruction for literacy in English and Spanish, math, coding, and more. Imagine Edgenuity is our flagship courseware solution, complemented by Imagine School Services' Certified Teachers. Imagine Learning. Empower potential. Learn more at https://www.imaginelearning.com/.

Imagine Math provides rich, standards-based mathematics instruction in motivating, age-appropriate learning environments for PreKGeometry. This supplemental, adaptive curriculum challenges students with grade-level content and provides scaffolds for learners, as needed, to ensure they always feel successful. Additionally, point-of-need access to live instruction by certified, bilingual math educators is available starting in grade 3.

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SOURCE Imagine Learning LLC
PHOENIX , Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- With the launch of the Mortgage Division team, led by Steven Zielsdorf , the VP, Director of Residential Mortgage Lending, Integro Bank continues to position themselves as one of the few community banks in Arizona that is small business-focused and offers mortgage solutions that meets the needs and challenges small business owners face when purchasing a home.

Almost four in 10 recent homeowners (37%) said buying a home was one of the most stressful life events they had experienced  worse than looking for a job (28%), planning a wedding (23%), and having a child (18%). Mr. Zielsdorf states that "Integro Bank is here to make the home buying process easier and less stressful. We offer a wide variety of loan programs to meet your mortgage financing needs whether you are a traditional residential home buyer or a small business owner with challenges validating income to meet the financial requirements. Our team will work with you to determine the best option for your personal situation while also having the experience to provide creative solutions for small business owners in need of a mortgage or refinancing. It's not just assistance, it's a level of advisory and being experts in our field that will make the entire process smoother and work within your schedule."

The launch of Integro Bank's mortgage division team acts as a further enhancement to the overall lending services the bank offers, which includes SBA lending, Commercial lending, and now Mortgage lending solutions. This addition further supports small business owners when it comes to their overall business and personal lending needs with such products as Bank Statement Loans for self-employed home-buyers and investment property mortgages using lease agreements. Additionally, Integro Bank offers robust mortgage lending options for traditional residential home buyers from first-time home buyers, to FHA Loans, Portfolio Fixed-Rate, ARM Loans, Jumbo Loans, USDA Loans, and VA loans.

The mortgage department pairs nicely with the Integro Bank differentiators that consists of their CEO Club program and the Integro360 SM service, which provides business owners the capabilities to benchmark and valuate their business.

About the Integro Bank Mortgage Division

Partnering with a bank when it comes to your home is one of the most important decisions you will make. Integro Bank's Mortgage Officers can assist throughout the process and work within your schedule, whether that is during regular business hours, evenings, or weekends, our service to you will fit your schedule. You can begin the process today by visiting www.integro.bank and completing the online form to have a representative contact you to assist you with all your mortgage needs!

About Integro Bank

Integro Bank is an FDIC-insured bank based in Phoenix, Arizona (USA). Our proprietary INTEGRO360SM consultative approach and CEO Club are designed to help small businesses grow and maximize employment. Why? Because employment lifts people up and transforms lives. Visit www.integro.bank to learn more.

Media Contact:

Brandon Price , Marketing at [email protected] or (602) 325-9431

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SOURCE Integro Bank
FREMONT, Calif. , Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Jackery, a global leader of innovative portable power and green outdoor energy solutions, has announced that its star product, the Jackery Solar Generator 1000, has been certified Climate Pledge Friendly by Amazon, underscoring the company's commitment to environmental sustainability and dedication to making a positive impact on the planet.

The Amazon Climate Pledge Friendly initiative is a program to help make it easy for customers to discover and shop for more sustainable products. Climate Pledge Friendly products are clearly labeled in shopping results, have additional sustainability information on the product page, and are featured in a dedicated section of Amazon. This green label is only given to products that adhere to strict environmental standards and show a strong dedication to sustainable development. The plaudit serves as a testament to the Jackery product's eco-friendly design and its positive impact on mitigating climate change.

"In line with our core values and mission to offer environmentally friendly power solutions to consumers, while also ensuring the preservation of our planet, we are delighted to participate in this program," said Tracy Wang , Global PR Head at Jackery. "This initiative not only promotes widespread adoption and influence towards sustainable consumption but also encourages brands like Jackery, to prioritize the creation of more sustainable products - an endeavor we have dedicated ourselves to for several years."

Jackery is a company specializing in portable power solutions, offering a range of innovative products such as portable power stations, solar panels, and solar generators. These products address the pain points of on-the-go power needs by providing reliable and convenient sources of energy for various scenarios, including outdoor adventures, emergency situations, camping trips, and remote work setups.

For years, Jackery has demonstrated a steadfast commitment to sustainability, offering a range of products that prioritize environmental responsibility. Most notably, Jackery has achieved carbon footprint verification from TUV SUD for ten of its products. Furthermore, Jackery's unwavering dedication to sustainable innovation has been recognized with the prestigious SEAL Sustainable Product Award for 2023, specifically for its outstanding SG 2000 Plus. In addition to its impressive product lineup, Jackery is dedicated to environmental preservation and actively participates in various initiatives. Jackery partnered with the National Forest Foundation (NFF) to plant 10,000 trees. Jackery has also teamed up with the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) in a restoration program aimed at helping the critically endangered black-footed ferrets in North America .

Jackery is committed to empowering users to take complete control of their energy requirements, which is evidenced once again by the company's latest offering, the Jackery Plus series. The Plus series represents Jackery's latest optimized solution for top-notch performance, reliability, and peace of mind, showcasing the company's most recent technology and solutions with the goal of delivering more substantial benefits to users worldwide.

The Amazon Climate Pledge Friendly certification brings headline recognition to Jackery's ongoing efforts to provide innovative and eco-conscious solutions for customers around the world while protecting the planet. By continuing to prioritize sustainability and environmental responsibility, Jackery aims to make more contributions to the global transition to clean energy and promote a more sustainable future.

About Jackery

Jackery, the world's leading innovative portable power and green outdoor energy solution provider founded in California in 2012, is a global top-selling solar generator brand born with a mission to offer green energy to everyone, everywhere. Jackery launched the world's first outdoor portable power stations in 2016 and developed the world's first portable solar panels in 2018. Jackery has sold over 3 million units globally since 2018, and has been recognized by over 200 authorized media and organizations worldwide and received 58 prestigious international design awards. Jackery has fulfilled its social responsibility on a global scale and maintained long-term cooperation with global public welfare organizations such as WWF, NFF and IRC contributing its strength and value to boost global sustainable development and other public welfare.

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SOURCE Jackery Inc.
BOSTON , Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ - The John Hancock Closed-End Funds listed in the table below announced earnings1 for the three months ended July 31, 2023 . The same data for the comparable three-month period ended July 31, 2022 is also available below.JHS

Three Months Ended 7/31/2023 Ticker Fund Name Current

Fiscal

Year End Net

Investment

Income Per

Common

Share NAV Total

Managed

Assets

Total Net Assets HPI Preferred Income Fund 7/31 $ 6,822,115 $ 0.258 $15.28 $ 661,809,050 * $ 404,709,050 HPF Preferred Income Fund II 7/31 $ 5,526,362 $ 0.257 $15.15 $ 532,196,595 * $ 325,496,595 HPS Preferred Income Fund III 7/31 $ 7,373,170 $ 0.231 $13.63 $ 709,064,252 * $ 434,764,252 JHS Income Securities Trust 10/31 $ 1,094,991 $ 0.094 $11.82 $ 228,927,666 * $ 137,627,666 JHI Investors Trust 10/31 $ 1,901,401 $ 0.217 $14.15 $ 210,645,708 * $ 123,745,708 PDT Premium Dividend Fund 10/31 $ 6,418,598 $ 0.130 $12.05 $ 966,284,577 * $ 592,584,577 HTD Tax-Advantaged Dividend Income Fund 10/31 $ 7,824,219 $ 0.221 $21.86 $ 1,193,324,032 * $ 774,424,032 HTY Tax-Advantaged Global Shareholder Yield 10/31 $ 1,028,182 $ 0.094 $ 5.51 $ 60,132,887

$ 60,132,887

Three Months Ended 7/31/2022 Ticker Fund Name Current

Fiscal

Year End Net

Investment

Income Per

Common

Share NAV Total Managed

Assets

Total Net Assets HPI Preferred Income Fund 7/31 $8,664,339 $ 0.329 $17.99 $ 731,359,267 * $474,259,267 HPF Preferred Income Fund II 7/31 $7,008,268 $ 0.327 $17.83 $ 588,788,317 * $382,088,317 HPS Preferred Income Fund III 7/31 $9,426,348 $ 0.296 $15.95 $ 781,366,542 * $507,066,542 JHS Income Securities Trust 10/31 $1,733,932 $ 0.149 $12.86 $ 241,092,901 * $149,792,901 JHI Investors Trust 10/31 $2,612,840 $ 0.299 $14.87 $ 216,948,837 * $130,048,837 PDT Premium Dividend Fund 10/31 $9,848,832 $ 0.201 $14.25 $ 1,070,221,750 * $696,521,750 HTD Tax-Advantaged Dividend Income Fund 10/31 $11,297,926 $ 0.319 $25.33 $ 1,316,211,875 * $897,311,875 HTY Tax-Advantaged Global Shareholder Yield 10/31 $1,219,015 $ 0.112 $5.78 $ 63,180,566

$63,180,566 *Total managed assets include assets attributable to borrowings under the Committed Facility Agreement or Liquidity Agreement, as applicable.

1 Earnings refer to net investment income, which is comprised of the Fund's interest and dividend income, less expenses. Earnings presented represent past earnings and there is no guarantee of future results.

Amounts distributed by the Funds may vary from the earnings shown above and will be announced in separate press releases. Up-to-date distribution rate information is available on John Hancock Investment Management's web site at www.jhinvestments.com by clicking on "Closed-End Funds" under the "Daily Prices" tab.

Statements in this press release that are not historical facts are forward-looking statements as defined by the United States securities laws. You should exercise caution in interpreting and relying on forward-looking statements because they are subject to uncertainties and other factors which are, in some cases, beyond the Fund's control and could cause actual results to differ materially from those set forth in the forward-looking statements.

An investor should consider a Fund's investment objectives, risks, charges, and expenses carefully before investing.

About John Hancock Investment Management

A company of Manulife Investment Management, we serve investors through a unique multimanager approach, complementing our extensive in-house capabilities with an unrivaled network of specialized asset managers, backed by some of the most rigorous investment oversight in the industry. The result is a diverse lineup of time-tested investments from a premier asset manager with a heritage of financial stewardship.

About Manulife Investment Management

Manulife Investment Management is the global brand for the global wealth and asset management segment of Manulife Financial Corporation. We draw on more than a century of financial stewardship and the full resources of our parent company to serve individuals, institutions, and retirement plan members worldwide. Headquartered in Toronto , our leading capabilities in public and private markets are strengthened by an investment footprint that spans 18 geographies. We complement these capabilities by providing access to a network of unaffiliated asset managers from around the world. We're committed to investing responsibly across our businesses. We develop innovative global frameworks for sustainable investing, collaboratively engage with companies in our securities portfolios, and maintain a high standard of stewardship where we own and operate assets, and we believe in supporting financial well-being through our workplace retirement plans. Today, plan sponsors around the world rely on our retirement plan administration and investment expertise to help their employees plan for, save for, and live a better retirement. Not all offerings are available in all jurisdictions. For additional information, please visit manulifeim.com.

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/john-hancock-closed-end-funds-release-earnings-data-301913057.html

SOURCE John Hancock Investment Management
The Irish dairy brand enters the on-the-go snacking category with new Cheese Snacks, available in the same great Dubliner and Aged Cheddar flavors you know and love.

EVANSTON, Ill. , Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Kerrygold, an international brand of Ornua, introduces new Kerrygold Cheese Snacks, ready-to-eat cheese sticks in a convenient and snackable format. Rolling onto store shelves across the U.S. now with eight sticks per pack, Kerrygold Cheese Snacks are gluten-free and a good source of protein, perfect for an instant snack, packed in a lunchbox for the kids, or arranged on a cheese board.

"The Cheese Snacks range is an exciting addition to Kerrygold's cheese portfolio, as well as an entry into the ready-to-eat snack category," said Alexandra Vinci , Brand Manager at Kerrygold. "We're thrilled to now have a Kerrygold option for busy parents and kids, as well as all of the on-the-go snackers and brand fans alike."

The range contains two delicious flavors:

Aged Cheddar: A connoisseur's Cheddar, expertly graded and notable for its rich, rounded flavor, creamy taste and firm body.

A connoisseur's Cheddar, expertly graded and notable for its rich, rounded flavor, creamy taste and firm body. Dubliner: Distinctive, rounded flavor of a mature Cheddar, with sweet nutty tones of a Swiss and a piquant bite of aged Parmesan.

The Cheese Snacks varieties stay true to the Kerrygold tradition of producing flavorful, creamy, and all-natural dairy products, hailing straight from 14,000 small Irish family farms that provide premium-quality milk for Kerrygold products. Kerrygold farmers are members of local milk cooperatives, owned by the farmers themselves, and these co-ops help preserve family farming traditions that have been passed on for generations. The milk from Kerrygold Irish grass-fed cows is rich in beta-carotene which gives Kerrygold Cheese Snacks their rich, natural, golden color.

Kerrygold Cheese Snacks are available at Wegman's, Whole Foods, Giant Foods, and more. Check out select stores found at kerrygoldusa.com/store-locator. For a full list of Kerrygold products and more information, please visit kerrygoldusa.com.

About Kerrygold USA

Kerrygold was established in 1962 as a premium brand, befitting the rich quality of grass-fed Irish milk. Kerrygold initially launched as a single product brand and is now regarded as Ireland's most successful food brand, reaching 1 billion in annual sales in 2019. Since its creation, Kerrygold has been synonymous with quality, and today, Kerrygold has a special place in the hearts of consumers all over the world.

Kerrygold dairy farmers are committed to the co-operative ideal; working together to produce only the very best grass-fed dairy products. Kerrygold cows graze freely on the fields of 14,000 small family farms; each one using unique dairy farming traditions passed down through generations of family. It is this grass-fed milk that delivers the rich tasting, higher quality dairy products that Kerrygold is famous for.

Today, consumers all over the world enjoy the unique taste of Irish grass-fed dairy. Kerrygold Pure Irish Butter is the number two butter brand in the USA and Kerrygold Dubliner Irish Cheese is the number one specialty cheese.

CONTACT:

Laura Mays

[email protected]

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/kerrygold-introduces-new-cheese-snacks-301910264.html

SOURCE Kerrygold
Core Prospecting Pty Ltd.  a private mining contractor - may earn up to a 75% interest in a three square kilometre area within EL5387 by completing up to 6,000 metres of diamond drilling in two phases.

Historic production records from Excelsior indicate the mining of 13,200 tons for 9,260 ounces of gold from an ore shoot to a depth of 100 meters.

Drilling to seek depth and strike extensions to mineralization reported during Leviathan's 2021 drilling campaign - which included intervals of 6.63 meters at 8.24 g/t Au in hole EH003 and 11.02 meters at 5.40 g/t Au in hole EH005.

VANCOUVER, BC , Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ - Leviathan Gold Ltd. ("Leviathan", the "Company") (TSXV: LVX) ( Germany : 0GP) is pleased to announce that its wholly-owned subsidiary, Leviathan Gold (Australia) Pty Ltd., has entered into Heads of Agreement ("HOA") with Core Prospecting Pty Ltd. ("Core") in regard to the Excelsior Prospect at its Avoca Project in the Victorian goldfields, Australia .

Under the terms of the HOA, Core  a private small-scale mining contractor based in Bendigo - may earn an initial 40% interest in a three square kilometre area within EL5387 (the Excelsior Area of Interest, or "AOI") by completing, at Core's sole cost and expense, 2,000 metres of diamond drilling including assays by January 17, 2024 ("Phase 1"), and a further 35% interest in the AOI for an additional 4,000 metres of diamond drilling including assays and by preparing an independent JORC report (the "JORC Report") identifying at least Indicated or Measured Mineral Resource within 12 months from the end of Phase 1, each at Core's sole cost and expense ("Phase 2"). In lieu of completing such further drilling, Core may instead prepare, at its sole cost and expense, a JORC report containing Indicated or Measured Mineral Resources (or both) of not less than 50,000 ounces of gold at a cut-off grade of 2.5g/t Au within the AOI. Upon fulfilment of certain conditions by Core, Leviathan shall on behalf of Core apply for a standalone tenure over the AOI, (the "New Tenement"). If Core fails to complete Phase 2 they shall forfeit any interest under Phase 1 and shall have no interest in the AOI.

Upon Core having attained a 75% equity interest in the AOI, Leviathan may either contribute its share of costs and maintain its equity interest, or be diluted pro-rata to a minimum carried interest of 5%, which Core shall purchase from Leviathan for the sum of AUD$150 per ounce of Indicated or Measured Mineral Resources (or both) as estimated in the JORC Report, payable upon commencement of gold production. Alternatively, Core may, within 12 months of the completion of Phase 2, purchase Leviathan's holding in the AOI for the sum of AUD$75 per ounce of Indicated or Measured Mineral Resources (or both) in the JORC Report, or Core may within 12 months of the completion of Phase 2 purchase Leviathan's holding in the Excelsior AOI by paying instalments of AUD$25,000 per quarter, increasing to AUD$75,000 per quarter, commencing from the date on which a New Tenement is granted and continuing for the life of any gold production mine located within the area of the AOI.

The HOA also provides that Leviathan may, subject to Core first completing Phase 1, claw back Core's equity stake in the AOI for the sum of AUD$500 per meter drilled, or after receipt of the JORC Report for AUD $150 per ounce of gold mineralisation estimated and classified as an Indicated Mineral Resource or a Measured Mineral Resource (or both) in the JORC Report.

The intent of the work programs contemplated by the HOA is to build on drilling completed by Leviathan in 2021, and to define economic gold mineralization at the property. The most prominent intervals among results reported to date from Excelsior include 8.24 g/t Au over 6.63 meters from 161.95 meters in hole EH003 (press release of April 21, 2021 ) and 5.40 g/t Au over 11.02 meters from 84.37 meters in hole EH005 (press release of April 26, 2021 ). These intervals are believed to represent the down-dip continuation of mineralization observed in historic mine workings, and are characterized by intense quartz veining, visible gold, and enveloping sericitic alteration and base metal sulphides. Additional drilling will be required to determine the true thickness of mineralization.

It is anticipated that drilling by Core commence in September 2023 , and this will be reported on accordingly.

Leviathan Gold Chief Executive Officer, Luke Norman , remarked: "We are delighted to have struck this deal with Core, who as a highly skilled and reputable local mining contractor are ideally placed to further exploration at Excelsior and to bring near term value to the project. Past work at Excelsior confirmed not only the presence of high-grade gold mineralization across multiple sample intervals, but also continuity of this mineralization between drill holes within and beyond historical mine workings. With historic records from Excelsior indicating 9,260 ounces of production from an ore shoot at near-ounce grades, our target today is the extension of this system to depth and along strike  and repeats beyond this".

About the Excelsior Prospect

The Excelsior prospect is interpreted to host structurally controlled gold mineralization developed within quartz veins. Historic production records from Excelsior indicate the mining of 13,200 tons for 9,260 ounces of gold down an ore shoot to a depth of 100 meters at an average recovered grade of 22 g/t Au between 1909 and 19151, with said mineralization open to depth and along strike.



___________________________ 1 GeoVic (2020) https://earthresources.vic.gov.au/geology-exploration/maps-reports-data



Recent exploration work completed on Excelsior.2 included surface sampling and mapping. Two soil sampling traverses were conducted at the western part of the prospect, one pf which crossed considerable quartz vein float. The outcrop of the reef is presently covered by mine tailings. The initial phase of drilling work by Leviathan, which is expected to comprise at least 5,000 meters of diamond drilling, has been designed to target near-surface strike and depth projections of mineralization around and beneath the Excelsior Reef.

A total of 1,917 meters in 11 holes have been drilled at Excelsior by Leviathan to date.

Comparable Projects

Leviathan considers the Currighanalt project, in Northern Ireland , to be potentially and broadly similar in terms of its geology to the Avoca and Timor projects. In 2018 Dalradian Resources Inc. defined Measured and Indicated Mineral Resources of 6.34 million tonnes at a grade of 15.01 g/t Au for 3.06 million ounces of gold, and Inferred Mineral Resources of 7.72 million tonnes at a grade of 12.24 g/t Au for 3.04 million ounces of gold3. The Currighanalt project, which is described as "a high grade orogenic gold deposit characterized by a series of west-northwest trending, moderately to steeply dipping, stacked quartz-carbonate-sulphide veins and arrays of narrow and short extension veinlets" is hosted by rocks of similar lithology and age to those found at Avoca and Timor.

Qualified Person and Data Verification

The technical content of this news release has been reviewed, verified and approved by Keith Whitehouse , AusIMM (CP), Exploration Manager of Leviathan Gold ( Australia ) Pty. Ltd., a qualified person as defined by NI 43-101.

On behalf of the Company,

Luke Norman , Chief Executive Officer and Director



_____________________________ 2 Motton, N. (2016). Currawong Pty Ltd. "Annual Report for EL5387 Avoca" 3 Dalradian Resources (2018), "Technical Report for the Curraghinalt Gold Project, Northern Ireland ", by SRK Consulting.





Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. No securities regulatory authority has either approval or disapproved of the contents of this press release.

This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any of the securities in the United States . The securities have not been and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the " U.S. Securities Act") or any state securities laws and may not be offered or sold within the United States unless registered under the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws or an exemption from such registration is available.

Forward-Looking Statements

Information set forth in this news release contains forward-looking statements that are based on assumptions as of the date of this news release, including with respect to geological prospects of Leviathan's mineral projects, planned exploration activities, success of exploration activities, the relevance of historical information, the continuation of mineralization, the relevance of comparable projects, the timing of exploration activities, general business and economic conditions; that applicable approvals are obtained; that qualified workers, financing, permits, approvals, and equipment are obtained in a timely manner; that market conditions continue; that contractual counterparties perform their obligations as required; and that Leviathan is able to locate sufficient financing for favourable ongoing operations. These statements reflect management's current estimates, beliefs, intentions and expectations. They are not guarantees of future performance. Leviathan cautions that all forward looking statements are inherently uncertain and that actual performance may be affected by many material factors, many of which are beyond Leviathan's control. Such factors include, among other things: risks and uncertainties relating to whether exploration activities will result in commercially viable quantities of mineralized materials; the possibility of changes to project parameters as plans continue to be refined; the ability to execute planned exploration and future drilling programs; COVID-19; the ability to obtain qualified workers, financing, permits, approvals, and equipment in a timely manner or at all and on reasonable terms; changes in the commodity and securities markets; non-performance by contractual counterparties; and general business and economic conditions, Accordingly, actual and future events, conditions and results may differ materially from the estimates, beliefs, intentions and expectations expressed or implied in the forward-looking information. Although Leviathan has attempted to identify important risks and factors that could cause actual actions, events or results to differ materially from those described in forward-looking statements, there may be other factors and risks that cause actions, events or results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. Consequently, undue reliance should not be placed on such forward-looking statements. In addition, all forward-looking statements in this press release are given as of the date hereof. Leviathan disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, save and except as may be required by applicable securities laws. The forward-looking statements contained herein are expressly qualified by this disclaimer.

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SOURCE Leviathan Gold Ltd
INDIANAPOLIS , Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Eli Lilly and Company (NYSE: LLY) will attend the Morgan Stanley 21st Annual Global Healthcare Conference, Sept. 11-12, 2023 . Daniel Skovronsky, M.D., Ph.D., executive vice president, chief scientific and medical officer, and president of Lilly Research Laboratories, will participate in a fireside chat on Sept. 11 at 2:55 p.m., Eastern time .

A live audio webcast will be available on the "Webcasts & Presentations" section of Lilly's Investor website at https://investor.lilly.com/webcasts-and-presentations. A replay of the presentation will be available on this same website for approximately 90 days.

About Lilly

Lilly unites caring with discovery to create medicines that make life better for people around the world. We've been pioneering life-changing discoveries for nearly 150 years, and today our medicines help more than 51 million people across the globe. Harnessing the power of biotechnology, chemistry and genetic medicine, our scientists are urgently advancing new discoveries to solve some of the world's most significant health challenges, redefining diabetes care, treating obesity and curtailing its most devastating long-term effects, advancing the fight against Alzheimer's disease, providing solutions to some of the most debilitating immune system disorders, and transforming the most difficult-to-treat cancers into manageable diseases. With each step toward a healthier world, we're motivated by one thing: making life better for millions more people. That includes delivering innovative clinical trials that reflect the diversity of our world and working to ensure our medicines are accessible and affordable. To learn more, visit Lilly.com and Lilly.com/newsroom or follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and LinkedIn. F-LLY

Refer to: Jordan Bishop ; [email protected]; 317-473-5712 (Media)

Joe Fletcher ; [email protected]; 317-296-2884 (Investors)

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SOURCE Eli Lilly and Company
EDEN PRAIRIE, Minn. , Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Marrow Access Technologies announced today that it signed a distribution agreement with Spartan Medical. The distribution agreement will provide patients in the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and Department of Defense (DoD) access to the SmartShot Marrow Access Device, a novel solution for using the body's own stem cells and healing capabilities to treat orthopedic soft tissue injuries of the knee, hip, shoulder, foot, and ankle.

Partnership expands access of SmartShot cartilage therapy to federal marketplace of the Veterans Health Administration

Marrow Access Technologies has taken a significant commercial step forward by partnering with Spartan Medical, a service-disabled veteran-owned business, to access the extensive federal marketplace of the Veterans Health Administration. This healthcare system is the most extensive integrated healthcare system in the US, catering to over 9.1 million veterans.

SmartShot uses a patented mechanism to create deep, microneedle channels into the bone to stimulate the patient's healing reaction. The penetration of the outer layers of bone allows blood and stem cells from within the bone marrow to activate cartilage, ligament, bone, and tendon healing. In a recently published independently funded and peer-reviewed animal study, researchers at the University of Pennsylvania concluded that SmartShot best preserved the underlying subchondral bone compared to traditional marrow access approaches.

"We're proud to give our veterans and wounded warriors access to the newest standard of care for marrow stimulation therapy, and our partnership with veteran-owned Spartan Medical will enable healing and recovery for thousands," said Joseph Saladino , CEO and Co-founder of Marrow Access Technologies.

SmartShot is commercially available in the United States with rapidly expanding distribution.

Marrow Access Technologies

Founded in 2017, Marrow Access Technologies is focused on developing orthopedic surgical solutions that leverage the body's natural healing to repair and regenerate cartilage and other soft tissue. The platform SmartShot marrow access device is indicated for treating knee, hip, shoulder, ankle, wrist, and elbow injuries and has been used successfully in more than 1,500 patients.

For more information about Marrow Access Technologies, please visit www.marrowaccess.com or follow us on LinkedIn.

About Spartan Medical

Spartan Medical Inc is a leading provider of innovative medical technologies and solutions for healthcare providers, government agencies, schools, civilian hospitals, and ambulatory surgery centers (ASCs) nationwide. The company has been awarded over 700 contracts with the federal government and has served over 100 medical facilities and schools worldwide. Spartan Medical is committed to delivering advanced medical technologies that improve patient care and outcomes.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/marrow-access-technologies-partners-with-spartan-medical-to-provide-novel-cartilage-repair-therapy-to-us-veterans-and-department-of-defense-service-members-301911582.html

SOURCE Marrow Access Technologies
TORONTO , Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ - Meeranda , a privately held Artificial Intelligence (AI) solutions provider, serving both Small and Medium Businesses (SMBs) and Global Multinational Corporations (MNCs), announced today its acceptance into the OVHcloud Startup Program . This acceptance comes merely days following Meeranda 's enrollment into the Microsoft for Startups and the AWS Activate programs.

The OVHcloud Startup Program, aims to foster innovation and aid startups by providing them with support, cutting-edge infrastructure, and strategic guidance. As a member of this program, Meeranda gains access to a range of resources and benefits that will accelerate its growth trajectory.

Furthermore, via the showcase events, the program establishes a link between startups and mentors, investors, and fellow entrepreneurs. This facilitates cooperation and enables participants to garner insights from industry experts.

"The great news just keeps coming. We are excited to take part in the OVHcloud Startup Program," said Mr. Raji Wahidy , Co-Founder and CEO of Meeranda . "We are looking forward to leveraging all the resources which will be made available to us to further fuel Meeranda 's rapid growth. Being part of this program, along with our strategic partnerships with Microsoft for Startups and AWS Activate, shall empower us to expedite our technological development to realize our mission of delivering The New Personalized Customer Experience to our partners and their clients."

Additional benefits to OVHcloud Startup Program include direct access to business utilities, tools for developers, technical assistance, and one-on-one mentorship.

Meeranda will commence its Seed Funding round by the end of August 2023 .

About Meeranda

Meeranda is a privately held Artificial Intelligence (AI) solutions provider, serving Small and Medium Businesses (SMBs) and Global Multinational Corporations (MNCs). Meeranda is best known for its Human-Like AI that intends to offer the new personalized customer experience to combat the ongoing frustration of dealing with chatbots and half-baked AI solutions. Although in its early stages, Meeranda already has agreements across six countries and seven industries, thus far.

Follow Meeranda

Website: https://meeranda.com

Media Kit: https://meeranda.com/media-kit

X: https://x.com/HelloMeeranda

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HelloMeeranda

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/HelloMeeranda

Instagram: https://instagram.com/HelloMeeranda

Threads: https://instagram.com/HelloMeeranda

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@meeranda

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@meeranda_ai

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SOURCE Meeranda
As a formal partner to the Maryland Department of Commerce's Global Gateway program, MISI will start hosting companies looking to explore the U.S. market on Sept. 1, 2023

COLUMBIA, Md. , Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- MISI , a cybersecurity nonprofit driving small business and academic engagement, STEM and workforce development opportunities, and proof of concept innovation, is pleased to be an official partner of Maryland's Global Gateway Soft Landing Program. Managed by the Maryland Department of Commerce, the program provides international companies with an opportunity to test out their viability in the U.S. market.

As a Soft Landing partner, MISI will be issued grants to provide approved companies with access to facilities, resources, advisors, and more. The participating companies will be able to place personnel in Maryland for a period of six months, and MISI will arrange events, mentorship, and guide them through doing business in Maryland and across the U.S.

MISI will host its first Soft Landing participants in Azimuth 24, a distinct space within MISI's Cyber Mission Accelerator facilities, starting on Sept. 1, 2023 . At the end of the initial six-month period, these businesses will be considered for an advantage to permanently open an office within the state of Maryland , and along with that, bring high-tech job opportunities to the region.

The first international company participating through MISI is Flexxon . Founded in 2007 and headquartered in Singapore , Flexxon is a next-generation storage device manufacturer, specializing in hardware-based cybersecurity solutions and industrial NAND flash storage devices.

Camellia Chan , Co-Founder and CEO of Flexxon shared, "Flexxon is honored to be the first international company to participate in MISI's engagement with the Maryland Global Gateway Soft Landing Program. This is a significant stride towards Flexxon's strategic expansion within the U.S. market. By actively elevating cybersecurity standards and fostering innovation across borders, we are resolutely addressing the escalating threat of cybercrime. We welcome MISI's support and are enthusiastic about the prospect of contributing to the advancement of cybersecurity solutions on a global scale."

"MISI is honored to play a role in supporting global companies that are interested in bringing innovative, cutting-edge technology to the U.S. ," said TC Hoot, MISI Senior Program Manager. "Our mission is to work with non-traditional companies that have the potential to address the U.S. Department of Defense and other government cybersecurity needs. We look forward to seeing how companies like Flexxon with a focus on addressing cybercrime threats take advantage of this program and to walking with them along their journey."

To learn more about Maryland's Global Gateway Soft Landing program or to be notified when applications open to participate as an international organization, click here . For more information about MISI events, partnerships and more, visit misi.tech/ .

About MISI

MISI is a cybersecurity nonprofit fueling the people and technology needed to solve critical cybersecurity challenges. MISI's three pillars of focus include: small business and academic engagement, STEM and workforce development, and proof of concept innovation. Through collaboration with small businesses, academic researchers, and non-traditional members of the cybersecurity community, MISI serves as an intermediary and helps connect U.S. Cyber Command (USCYBERCOM) and the U.S. government to the innovative products and solutions needed to advance the nation's cybersecurity capabilities.

MISI operates programs out of MISI facilities, including two nationally acclaimed Cyber Mission Accelerators with over 100,000 square feet of space: DreamPort and MindScape. DreamPort was created in partnership with US Cyber Command (USCYBERCOM) as a non-government-owned or operated independent facility to provide cyber national mission forces and partners with continuous innovation in cyber capabilities.

Visit https://misi.tech/ to learn more.

About Flexxon

Founded in 2007 and headquartered in Singapore , Flexxon is a global company that specialises in next generation hardware cybersecurity solutions and industrial NAND storage devices. Rooted in its strong pedigree as a leading industrial NAND flash storage solutions provider, Flexxon introduced the X-PHY brand in 2021 to address the rising tide of cybersecurity concerns. Through the expanding X-PHY suite of solutions, Flexxon is committed to protecting the basic rights of all citizens of the digital economy through constant innovation to address the evolving cybersecurity needs of today. With over forty patents and counting, Flexxon's market-leading products and solutions aim to deliver the utmost security and confidentiality standards to users.

For more information, please visit:

Flexxon: flexxon.com

X-PHY: x-phy.com

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/misi-joins-marylands-global-gateway-soft-landing-program-301910932.html

SOURCE Flexxon
Alexander KAFFKA, editor-in-chief of CJ: Dear Ran, welcome to Caucasian Journal! You seem like a classical founder of a software company, which you have been developing during 15 years from a scratch to a strong 400+ employees team scattered over several countries. Can we start with a bit more information about yourself and your company?

Ran BERGER: Dear Alexander, thank you for the opportunity to share my experience and our Georgia journey with you and with the Caucasian Journal's readers. I started my career in IT as a young engineer in 1999 and I built my experience since then. My main journey was with large scale organizational systems such as ERP, CRM and BI [respectively: Enterprise resource planning, Customer relationship management, Business intelligence - CJ] which allowed me to understand how the main business functions and processes work, and how various systems can optimize them. During the early stages of my career I saw how the internet is changing our lives and businesses, allowing us to rapidly scale and integrate with other partners in the value chain.





As part of my career, I was offered a relocation to London, UK, and there after few years I opened Flat Rock Technology. My vision for Flat Rock Technology was to bring my CEE and IT experience to offer business with software and web development services from top talent teams in East European countries. Fast forward to nowadays, we are serving a growing client base from our offices in Bulgaria, Georgia and Hungary, and I am confident that we will soon introduce new locations.



The new AI trends will release our skilled people, in the future, from some of the basic tasks and will allow them to focus on where they can add value.





AK: Georgia is not (yet) the most obvious destination as a global IT hub, and was even less so several years ago. But forward-looking businesspeople like yourself have chosen this country and preferred it to other locations. Can you tell us that story - how did it happen?





RB: I am a process driven individual, so when we choose a new location we usually perform evaluation that includes more than 200 parameters such as access to talent, education level, development of the local IT community, labour law, tax regime, political and economic situation, transportation, ease of doing business, potential resistance from our clients and many more.





Before we opened our Tbilisi office, we have performed our evaluation and we also met with local law, finance and recruitment firms and then number of detailed visits. At the end of the process I was convinced that this was the right location for us to expand, and we had moved forward.





AK: How smooth was your Georgian experience, since you had decided to go ahead to add it to your network? Did you encounter any technical or bureaucratic problems, or other underwater rocks on your way, and what were they like?





RB: Our experience was as complex as youd expect. When you start in any new country, and Georgia is not different, you have to learn the people, culture, processes and requirements. We have had to deal with all the bureaucracies like any other company, and for me this is a critical experience in getting some initial understanding of how the market works and what the company admin management entails.



I am sure that the demand for talent and competition for each skilled IT professional will only grow in the next few years.

AK: Your personnel in Georgia  how easy was it to find and hire qualified staff here? Do you observe any specifics with the local professionals?





RB: Recruiting and top talent have been a global challenge to all companies and in most countries in the last 7-8 years and had its peak during COVID era. We see ups and downs by country and skill and we then try to balance it with our multi-locations strategy. In the last 15 months due to the global economics and other macro events such as the war in Ukraine, we can see different trends, but I am sure that the demand for talent and competition for each skilled IT professional will only grow in the next few years. I think that it is our role as business leaders together with the academy leaders to develop the most appropriate education programs to train and develop more IT professionals. I also think that the new AI trends will release our skilled people, in the future, from some of the basic tasks and will allow them to focus on where they can add value and to use the new technologies and solutions as hybrid with the irreplaceable human brain in scaling up.





AK: By the way, if you think that something in the educational system in Georgia must be improved  to make our future IT specialists more competitive and equal to the global challenges, please share. There are many education professionals among our readers, who would highly appreciate your opinion.





RB: I would like to see the educational systems getting closer to the industry itself and creating up-to-date programs that will combine theoretical education with hands-on experience.





We should also think about the layers of the industry and see how we develop the talent supply to meet the demand. For example, the need to develop software engineers as well as coders and DevOps [software development (dev) and operations (ops) - CJ] skills which all require different competencies. The education systems must see themselves as integral part of the IT eco systems, and their success should be considered in relation to their outcome in the level of capabilities that they release to the market at the ends of their education process.



AI is a muscle that each one of us need to train and know how to use from very early stage.





AK: Speaking about the global challenges, whats your view on the future of IT in your field, and how is your vision reflected in Flat Rocks strategy?





RB: It is very trendy to think that AI will replace people. I tend to think that AI is a muscle that each one of us need to train and know how to use from very early stages and that AI will not replace us if we can add value. In Flat Rock we are continuously trying AI and other automation tools, and I am sure that we will not be behind the trends. My personal view is that we all need to adopt a new style of learning which I describe as a continued micro learning. This means that no matter what stage of career we are, we always must learn new skills and some of them will be very small. This is the way to keep our brain flexing and keep up with the fast moving changes.





AK: What are your and your companys achievements that you are especially proud of? And, by the way, whats behind its name Flat Rock?





RB: I am always proud for our people and those that stay with us for many years. I have always thought that at Flat Rock we need to develop long-term relations with our stakeholders such as employees, clients and suppliers. I am always very pleased to see that we are able to collaborate as a team from different locations, and when I see that we deliver a project for a client from the US with a project manager in the UK, some team members in Georgia and some in Bulgaria or Hungary, it makes me feel proud.





The company name came as inspiration from a book called The World is Flat by Thomas Friedman from 2005. The book describes how the internet will enable the global village of trade, collaboration, employment, knowledge sharing etc. In 2008, when we founded Flat Rock Technology, we thought that our approach and vision was very much aligned with what the book describes.



I will refuse any business opportunity if I think that it is not aligned with my core values.

AK: Our world is changing fast, and the ITs role is even more tightly interconnected with security  not just cybersecurity but military security as well AI might be fueling up the fake news And this is all across a real-time war happening in Europe, with sanctions and counter-sanctions, war-triggered relocation of IT specialists and whole teams Whats your opinion about responsibility of the IT industries and IT talents during such turbulent periods?





RB: As IT professionals we should stick to our core values and make sure that we understand trends, risks and opportunities and use our skills and tools in a good way to achieve a positive outcome. I personally believe in doing good, and as business leader I will only trade with other businesses and people that shares these values. I will refuse any business opportunity if I think that it is not aligned with my core values.





AK: Getting back to Georgia, what can be done to make it more competitive and attractive to global companies and foreign investors? Why, in your opinion, is it lagging behind such IT leader models as, for example, Estonia with its records number of unicorns per capita?





RB: for the IT industry to grow and develop it needs a good balance between service companies (like Flat Rock Technology) and products companies that take new ideas and vision from Georgia to make a global impact. The way to achieve it is a long process that includes a wider strategy and strong eco system that will include early stage incubators, venture capital and private equity involvement, government incentives, and the most important is local leaders to take the risk and break through. Georgia has the people and potential and I think that with the exposure to what we see in other places, this should happen very soon, and it will be very exciting times.





AK: If there is anything that you would like to add for our readers, the floor is yours.





RB: It is a good opportunity to say thank you to Georgia and Georgians. The warm welcome I get as a person and that we get as a business is not something we take for granted. I hope that with my experience I can assist. I am very fortunate to have the opportunity to see the Georgian IT sector changing in the last few years and Im very excited to be a small part of it.





AK: Thank you very much!
RICHMOND, Va. , Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ --West Cary Group, one of the largest minority-owned advertising and marketing technology firms in the U.S. , has hired Carolyn McCarty as its Chief Client Officer. McCarty previously held dual roles leading Diversity & Inclusion and Marketing for Capital One's Commercial Bank and as CEO of her own consultancy prior to joining the firm.

"The breakthrough work West Cary Group is doing for its clients is what drew me to the opportunity," said McCarty.

"The breakthrough work West Cary Group is doing for its clients is what drew me to the opportunity," said McCarty. "I am extremely impressed with how they're bringing 21st-century, cutting-edge marketing strategy approaches to both mainstream consumer brands and industries that haven't gotten the marketing attention they deserve. West Cary Group's deep expertise in complex and heavily regulated industries like energy, insurance, and the public sector is unmatched."

"Carolyn is uniquely positioned to lead our Client Management team because she brings a powerful combination of experience on both sides of the client management table," said Moses Foster , West Cary Group President and CEO. "She spent 20+ years on the client side in senior marketing roles at Fortune 100 company Capital One, working with agencies and partners to deliver breakout results. She started her career at four-time agency of the year The Martin Agency. Everywhere she's been, Carolyn has gotten results. As one of the premier performance agencies in the country, that's a big deal for us."

McCarty arrives at West Cary Group as the firm closes in on mid-size status, with nearly 100 team members located across 11 states. This year, the firm celebrated its 16-year anniversary and has been recognized as a Top Workplace in the Richmond Region for two consecutive years. Clients include commercial firms such as Capital One, CoStar, Atlantic Union Bank, Dominion Energy, and Luxottica, as well as government-sponsored enterprises like Fannie Mae. Public-sector clients include the U.S. Department of Forestry, the Henrico Economic Development Authority, Richmond International Airport , and Alexandria Renew Enterprises.

About West Cary Group

West Cary Group is a full-service, minority-owned advertising, technology and communications agency founded in 2007 by Moses Foster. The firm uniquely operates as a delivery engine capable of executing on insights throughout the customer journey, courtesy of a broad range of talent in a one-stop shop. It specializes in merging award-winning creative with rigorous data analysis to create marketing campaigns with truly measurable outcomes. West Cary Group's capabilities include digital advertising and media, mobile application design and development, web design and development, brand marketing and advertising, and direct response marketing.

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SOURCE West Cary Group
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. , Aug. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- NLP Logix, a pioneer in artificial intelligence (AI) Consultancy, is proud to announce its distinction as a finalist in GrowFL's 13th Annual Florida Companies to Watch Awards.

NLP Logix Recognized as Top Contender in GrowFL's Florida Companies to Watch Awards

The Award Program, sponsored by Duke Energy and Nperspective CFO & Strategic Services and presented in collaboration with the Edward Lowe Foundation, showcases businesses that exemplify resilience and ingenuity within Florida's vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem.

NLP Logix's exceptional growth and innovation have propelled it to a leading position in the artificial intelligence and machine learning sector, aligning perfectly with the Companies to Watch program's ethos. NLP Logix is an exemplar of a second-stage company that significantly contributes to the state's economic vigor through exceptional entrepreneurial leadership and inventive prowess.

Reflecting on this accomplishment, Ted Willich , CEO of NLP Logix, remarked, "Earning finalist status in the GrowFL Florida Companies to Watch Awards underscores the dedication of our NLP Logix team. Our commitment to expanding NLP technology's horizons and fostering industry innovation is unwavering and this recognition bolsters our drive to continue to deliver business process automation solutions using artificial intelligence."

The award criteria require a range of 6 to 150 employees and 2022 revenue between $750,000 to $100 million . This year the competitive pool consisted of over 550 Florida nominations and finalists span diverse sectors and collectively contributed 2,770 jobs and nearly $813 million in 2022 revenue. Notably, these companies project a 29 percent revenue growth and a 21 percent employment increase by the close of 2023.

The Companies to Watch accolade underscores NLP Logix's dedication to innovation, excellence, and ongoing contribution to Florida's economic landscape. As NLP Logix charts its course ahead, it remains poised to be a leader in developing and deploying custom artificial intelligence and machine learning solutions.

About NLP Logix

Headquartered in Jacksonville, Florida , NLP Logix is a team of AI pioneers and provider of customized artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) business automation solutions. Our diverse team of Software Engineers, Mathematicians, Statisticians, and Machine Learning Engineers is dedicated to leveraging core technologies to tackle everyday business challenges across various sectors. Taking a collaborative approach, we believe that "Data Science is a Team Sport." Website: nlplogix.com

Contact: Samantha Epstein

Email: Samantha.Epstein@nlplogix.com

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SOURCE NLP Logix, LLC
Novatron Fusion Group, a Swedish company that aims to revolutionize the field of fusion energy production, announced today the successful closure of its seed round, raising EUR 5 million . The round was led by Climentum Capital, in syndication with Industrifonden, Santander InnoEnergy Climate Fund, and with renewed investments by KTH Holding and EIT InnoEnergy.

STOCKHOLM , Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The world's energy demand is growing rapidly, and we need to meet it without reliance on fossil fuels. Fusion power has the potential to provide a limitless supply of emissions-free, reliable, safe, and affordable energy for all. Fusion power would provide a much-needed solution to some of humanity's greatest challenges: the growing need for energy and accelerating climate change.

Today, stabilizing superheated plasma is a significant roadblock to commercializing fusion reactors. The NOVATRON concept is an innovative reactor solution for stable magnetic plasma confinement that aims to overcome this hurdle. The NOVATRON concept is based on the original idea by the Swedish inventor and entrepreneur, Jan Jaderberg . It's being developed by world-leading physicists, engineers, and academics at the new Novatron Lab, housed within the former Alfven Laboratory at KTH Royal Institute of Technology in Sweden .

Peter Roos , CEO of Novatron Fusion Group, commented: "We are thrilled to receive such strong support from our investors. This will enable us to further deliver on our mission of transforming the energy landscape and accelerating the transition to a more sustainable future. We are now one step closer to enabling fusion energy at scale."

Novatron Fusion Group aims to develop economically viable fusion energy in the 2030s. The new capital will be used to build pre-commercial prototypes. The company's unique solution aims to increase reliability and reduce the current capital and operational cost profiles of its fusion reactors, relative to alternative solutions.

Malin Carlstrom, General Partner at Climentum Capital commented: "With the exponential speed of technological advancements in the last decade, fusion is now moving from being a research project to an industrialization phase ambition. Hence, we should not only consider the possibility of continuous fusion taking place but also the competitiveness of the calculated cost of energy. The NOVATRON concept shows prospects of success in both areas."

Mala Valroy, Investment Manager at Industrifonden, commented: "At Industrifonden, we believe in making science-backed, scalable investments that can shift the needle for society, and Novatron Fusion Groups technology has the potential to do just that. We are impressed by their innovative approach and confident in their ability to revolutionize energy production together with renewables. We are excited to support Novatron Fusion Group on their journey and look forward to witnessing the transformative effects of their technology."

In business and strategic partnership to advocate global systematic change and acceptance of fusion energy

In December 2022 , Novatron Fusion Group publicly announced its business and strategic partners. KTH Royal Institute of Technology in Sweden will provide its extensive knowledge of plasma physics and a well-equipped laboratory, access to academic research, and its international network. EIT InnoEnergy will likewise contribute with its pan-European and well-established network within industry, academia, and public institutions. Novatron Fusion Group is a member of the Fusion Cluster in the UK and the Fusion Industry Association (FIA) in the USA .

For more information, please contact:

Linda Nyberg , CCO, Novatron Fusion Group AB

+46 76-006 19 15 or [email protected]

Find more media at tinyurl.com/3zke9f7t

About Novatron Fusion Group

Novatron Fusion Group AB is a Swedish company headquartered in Stockholm . We are developing the NOVATRON concept  an innovative reactor solution for stable magnetic plasma confinement.

Partnerships include KTH Royal Institute of Technology (www.kth.se) and EIT InnoEnergy (www.innoenergy.com).

About Climentum Capital

Climentum Capital is a climate tech fund that invests in European early-stage companies with the potential to reshape industries to make them more low-carbon and circular. As an EU Article 9 fund, Climentum's mission is to provide catalytic capital for these companies to pass key inflection points, achieve full scale and contribute substantially to mitigating climate change. Read more at www.climentum.com.

About Industrifonden

Industrifonden is Sweden's Venture Capital Fund looking for unique, scalable innovation that has a meaningful impact on our society. Industrifonden manages more than SEK 5 billion and invests in early-stage companies, from seed to A-round funding with a reach across the Nordics. The investment focus includes specialized technologies and businesses within Deep Tech, Life Science, and Transformative Tech. Industrifonden has an evergreen structure that allows a long-term focus on value creation. Read more at industrifonden.com.

About Santander InnoEnergy Climate Fund

Santander InnoEnergy Climate Fund is an initiative based on a collaboration between Santander Alternative Investments and EIT InnoEnergy, whereby SAI is the portfolio manager and InnoEnergy is the technical advisor; Banco Santander is the anchor investor. It is a venture capital fund investing in early-stage companies (seed through Series B) working on technologies related to the energy transition and covering sectors such as circular economy, energy storage and efficiency, transport and mobility, smart buildings, cities and grids, hydrogen, AgTech, etc. The fund will invest mainly in companies coming out of InnoEnergy's ecosystem.

About KTH Holding

KTH Holding is a Swedish state-owned company investing in very early-stage companies from KTH. We invest and help researchers and students to build companies from their ideas, research results, and intellectual property rights (e.g. patents). In this way, we put KTH research and education into use for the benefit of society. Read more at kthholding.se/en.

About EIT InnoEnergy

EIT InnoEnergy operates at the centre of the energy transition and is the leading innovation engine in sustainable energy, bringing the technology and skills required to accelerate the green deal and Europe's decarbonisation goals.

Recognised globally as the most active sustainable energy investor and one of the largest climate tech and renewable energy tech investors, EIT InnoEnergy backs innovations across a range of areas. These include energy storage, transport and mobility, renewables and sustainable buildings and cities  leveraging its trusted ecosystem of 1200+ partners and 29 shareholders. The 180+ portfolio companies are on track to generate EUR 72.8 billion in revenue and save 1.1 gigatons of CO2e annually by 2030.

EIT InnoEnergy is the driving force behind three strategic European initiatives which include the European Battery Alliance (EBA), the European Green Hydrogen Acceleration Centre (EGHAC) and the European Solar Initiative (ESI).

EIT InnoEnergy was established in 2010 and is supported by the European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT), an independent EU body set up in 2008 to drive innovation and entrepreneurship across Europe . Today, EIT InnoEnergy has offices across Europe and in Boston , US. Visit www.innoenergy.com for more information

The following files are available for download:

https://mb.cision.com/Main/22717/3825221/2257987.pdf 20230829 NFG Financing https://news.cision.com/novatron-fusion-group-ab/i/artist-s-rendering-of-the-novatron-reactor-design,c3210237 Artist's rendering of the Novatron reactor design

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SOURCE Novatron Fusion Group AB
ARLINGTON, Va. , Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Following Florida's recent law making E-Verify mandatory for employers of 25 employees or more, E-Verify was highlighted as a rapidly emerging issue at the 2023 National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL) Legislative Summit that was held in Indianapolis, IN.

NumbersUSA, the nation's largest single-issue advocacy group, presented the exhibit illustrating the status of E-Verify

NumbersUSA, the nation's largest single-issue advocacy group, presented the exhibit illustrating the status of E-Verify nationally.

E-Verify is a free, online portal where employers can check that their new hires are legally authorized to work in the United States . President Obama made E-Verify mandatory for all Federal agencies and contractors. Still, it remains optionable for private businesses to use instead of the I-9 Federal form system which detractors say is antiquated, cumbersome, and easily subject to fraud.

"80% of the voters are in favor of E-Verify and that was about the split for legislators who dropped by and spoke with us," said Andrew Good , Chief of Staff for NumbersUSA's State Government Relationships organization. Good added, "Even those who disagreed weren't really arguing against the E-Verify system. The big question is, which ones are going to take the ball and run with it."

NumbersUSA empowers voters to achieve better, sensible immigration policies. The NCSL exhibit illustrated that 18 states have some form of E-Verify requirement and that seven states make E-Verify mandatory for all or most businesses. Over 48 million new hires had their authorization to work in the United States verified last year through E-Verify.

"E-Verify is one of the most impactful things state legislatures can do to deter future illegal immigration and to protect jobs and wages for their state's lawful residents," commented Chris Chmielenski, Director of State Government Relations for NumbersUSA. Chmielenski continued, "Moreover, a state's ability to require employers to use E-Verify has been upheld by the Supreme Court of the United States."

According to a 2017 report from the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas, those states that have implemented mandatory E-Verify for all employers have seen reduction in the presence of undocumented migrants illegally seeking jobs without authorization to work reduced up to 83%.

"We strive to educate the public and elected officials on the issues and laws regarding immigration," remarked James Massa , CEO of NumbersUSA. He concluded, "It was encouraging to discuss the issues with stakeholders from across the country and from both sides of the aisle."

About NumbersUSA

NumbersUSA supports a balanced immigration system that welcomes the spouses and minor children of U.S. citizens and legal permanent residents, is responsive to acute refugee crises, attracts those with extraordinary ability and talents, addresses temporary labor shortages, and protects the most vulnerable. NumbersUSA is a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization that believes better immigration policy is needed and possible. As America's largest single-issue advocacy group, focused exclusively on immigration reform, NumbersUSA has 8 million grassroots supporters spread across every congressional district. Founded solely by Roy Beck in 1996 to promote civil debate on the immigration recommendations of the U.S. Commission on Immigration Reform - chaired by civil rights icon Barbara Jordan , NumbersUSA continues to advocate for sensible immigration policies that ensure Americans' safety, promote economic fairness, while protecting the environment and quality of life.

Media Contact:

Colin Valentine

Email: [email protected]

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SOURCE NumbersUSA
National provider of residential roofing and exterior building solutions poised for increasing expansion with third partnership announcement

COLUMBUS, Ohio , Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Omnia Exterior Solutions, a portfolio company of CCMP Growth Advisors, LP (" CCMP "), today announced a new partnership with Black Hills Exteriors, a roofing and exteriors company out of Rapid City, South Dakota . This will be the third company added to Omnia Exterior Solutions' portfolio, which launched in June 2023 with a partnership with Hoffman Weber in Minneapolis followed by Brothers Services in Baltimore .

"We are thrilled to partner with Black Hills Exteriors as this company is one of the most innovative and progressive in the roofing industry today," said Jim Ziminski , chairman of the board at Omnia Exterior Solutions. "In addition to exhibiting impressive, forward-thinking business savvy, the goals and values of Black Hills Exteriors closely align with our goals and values at Omnia Exterior Solutions. They match our interest in partnering with curious, life-long learners who are committed to the industry but also are willing to adapt to the changing marketplace to grow their business. Through Black Hills Exteriors' success, thanks to its team and the strategic leadership of its president, Chad Enger , and business partner and company founder Trevor Schmidt , we're excited to see how that expertise, acumen and perspective will benefit current and future customers as well as partners in the Omnia Exterior Solutions family."

Omina Exterior Solutions is a national provider of residential roofing solutions and exterior remodeling services, and seeks to provide partner companies, such as Black Hills Exteriors, with extensive resources, administrative support, digital tools and more to help grow their businesses and keep up with changing technology.

The company was created to address a gap in the residential roofing industry and consists of exclusive partners who are local and regional leaders in their respective markets. Omnia was formed by CCMP, known for its legacy investment in leading brands such as Hayward and Generac, and industry veteran Ziminski, formerly with the Crane Group, managing their residential roofing brands ABLE and Mr. Roof , as well as the Exterior Portfolio siding brand, which he successfully sold to Westlake Royal Building Products.

Black Hills Exteriors is an award-winning, top tier roofing contractor recognized nationwide, as well as part of the Exterior Contractor Alliance (ECA). They provide a number of services to homeowners, specializing in insurance claims, residential roofing, commercial roofing, siding, windows & doors and seamless gutters. The company is based in Rapid City and serves a broad area in South Dakota as well as neighboring states.

"I am thrilled beyond words that Black Hills Exteriors is joining Omnia Exterior Solutions in partnership," said Chad Enger , owner of Black Hills Exteriors. "This partnership represents an incredible opportunity for growth in our industry, surrounded by like-minded individuals who share our vision and passion for bettering the roofing business. It's inspiring to witness so many roofing companies striving for excellence. However, what truly sets Omnia apart is the genuine heart behind their mission to make a positive impact in the industry that in turn benefits homeowners in communities nationwide. Joining Omnia means being part of a much bigger picture, and I firmly believe it will empower our team and elevate our company to new heights."

In the past year, Black Hills opened two new locations in Spearfish, South Dakota and Hot Springs, South Dakota . Black Hills will also open another location in Gillette, Wyoming in conjunction with the launch of the Omnia Exterior Solutions partnership.

"Our partnership with Omnia allows us to make a stronger commitment to our local businesses as we continue to expand our presence in both South Dakota and Wyoming ," said Trevor Schmidt , COO of Black Hills Exteriors. "We are excited to work with Omnia to grow our services, both within our current footprint as well as additional new locations in Wyoming this coming year."

To learn more about becoming an exclusive partner of Omnia Exterior Solutions, email the exclusive buy-side advisors for the company: Jim Ziminski ( [email protected] ) or Mike Blumenfeld ( [email protected] ).

Omnia Exterior Solutions

Launched in 2023 as a portfolio company of CCMP, Omnia Exterior Solutions is a national provider of residential roofing solutions and exterior remodeling services. The company was formed to address a gap in the residential roofing industry and comprises exclusive partners who are local and regional leaders in their respective markets. To inquire about exclusive partnerships, contact Omnia Exterior Solutions' buy-side advisors Jim Ziminski ( [email protected] and Mike Blumenfeld ( [email protected] ). Visit omniaexteriorsolutions.com .

About CCMP Growth Advisors, LP

CCMP is a New York based growth-oriented private equity firm focused on making lead buyout and growth equity investments in middle-market companies in the Consumer and Industrial sectors primarily in North America. CCMP Growth leverages the deep investment experience of its team to identify high-growth companies in transition, and partners with management to help each platform scale through strategic and operational support. Visit www.ccmpgrowth.com .



Black Hills Exteriors

Headquartered in the heart of the Black Hills in Rapid City, SD , Black Hills Exteriors is an innovative general contractor, specializing in insurance restoration and maintenance free exterior remodels. Recognized nationally for its craftsmanship, Black Hills Exteriors is also known for its trend-setting and high industry standards for customer service.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/omnia-exterior-solutions-a-portfolio-company-of-ccmp-announces-partnership-with-black-hills-exteriors-in-south-dakota-301912483.html

SOURCE Omnia Exterior Solutions
CHICAGO , Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Sikich is proud to announce it has been selected as a Best of the Best Firm by Inside Public Accounting. This is the first time the firm has been named to the exclusive list, following multiple years of significant growth. Sikich now serves more than 15,000 clients and has more than 1,600 team members across the U.S. , Canada , U.K. and India .

For 20 years, Inside Public Accounting has annually named the top 50 Best of the Best Firms based on analysis of its annual Practice Management Survey  focusing on key areas of management, growth and strategic vision. This year, more than 600 companies participated in the survey and were evaluated on 50 metrics including revenue growth, profitability, productivity, staff turnover, diversity and more. The Best of the Best list includes firms of all sizes and uses a proprietary scoring system to remove imbalances due to size and location. Sikich is one of the largest public accounting firms to be named to the 2023 list.

"I am beyond proud of the hard work of all of our employees, which has contributed to this exciting achievement," said Sikich CEO Chris Geier . "Being named a Best of the Best Firm puts Sikich in an elite category of public accounting firms. The IPA review process  with its focus on growth and strategic vision  captured how our teams work closely with our clients to uncover innovative solutions that drive business results. This recognition is a testament to our growth story, our culture, the support and collaboration of our clients, and the dedication of our people to their colleagues and their work. I am honored that Sikich is listed alongside such an elite group and send my congratulations to the other Best of the Best firms for their similar commitment to being the best in the industry."

Inclusion on IPA's 2023 Best of the Best Firms list follows a strong year for Sikich. In 2022, the firm saw total revenue growth of 38%, including 14% organic growth, and completed five acquisitions. Sikich was also recently named a Great Place to Work.

About Sikich LLP

Sikich LLP is a global company specializing in technology-enabled professional services. With more than 1,600 employees, Sikich draws on a diverse portfolio of technology solutions to deliver transformative digital strategies and ranks as one of the largest CPA firms in the United States . From corporations and not-for-profits to state and local governments and federal agencies, Sikich clients utilize a broad spectrum of services* and products to help them improve performance and achieve long-term, strategic goals.

*Securities offered through Sikich Corporate Finance LLC, member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advisory services offered through Sikich Financial, an SEC Registered Investment Advisor.

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SOURCE Sikich
GROVETOWN, Ga. , Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- U-Haul has acquired the former Storage Hotel facility at 5060 High Meadows Drive to better meet the moving and self-storage demands of Grovetown residents.

U-Haul at Columbia Fairgrounds began serving customers on July 31 and is offering self-storage with extended hours access. The 2.33-acre property includes a three-story, climate-controlled self-storage building with 422 units.

"Expanding our footprint in Columbia County is important to meet demand," stated U-Haul Company of South Carolina president Kevin Anderson , whose territory includes parts of eastern Georgia . "This location was already a self-storage facility and a U-Haul neighborhood dealer. It's a seamless transition for us to bring more of our needed DIY moving products and services here."

Customers now have access to truck and trailer rentals, boxes and moving supplies, towing equipment, propane and much more. Reserve equipment on the U-Haul app or contact Reservations at 1-800-GO-UHAUL.

"By reusing existing self-storage properties rather than constructing new builds, U-Haul is taking an ecofriendly approach to serving our customers," Anderson added. "We are investing in Grovetown's growth and look forward to being part of this community for years to come."

Anderson intends to hire a number of new Team Members to staff the U-Haul at Columbia Fairgrounds store. U-Haul will look to hire locally to promote job growth within the Grovetown community. U-Haul, honored as a Best for Vets leading veteran-friendly employer by The Military Times, actively recruits veterans and gives them preference in the hiring process. Find U-Haul careers at uhauljobs.com.

U-Haul dealers in and around Grovetown continue to be available to serve DIY movers. U-Haul has partnered with independent dealers to provide communities with accessible mobility since 1945. During these challenging times, more than 21,000 small businesses across the U.S. and Canada are generating supplemental income by partnering with U-Haul. When customers rent from their local U-Haul dealers, they are directly supporting small businesses in their community. Because there is no financial investment from dealers, they are not U-Haul franchises. They are simply small businesses with enough lot space to park U-Haul equipment and enough time to welcome more customers while meeting the mobility needs of their neighbors. Learn how to partner with U-Haul at uhaul.com/dealer.

About U-HAUL

Founded in 1945, U-Haul is the No. 1 choice of do-it-yourself movers with more than 23,000 rental locations across all 50 states and 10 Canadian provinces. The enhanced U-Haul app makes it easier for customers to use U-Haul Truck Share 24/7 to access trucks anytime through the self-dispatch and self-return options on their smartphones through our patented Live Verify technology. Our customers' patronage has enabled the U-Haul fleet to grow to 192,200 trucks, 138,500 trailers and 44,500 towing devices. U-Haul is the third largest self-storage operator in North America with 959,000 rentable units and 82.3 million square feet of self-storage space at owned and managed facilities. U-Haul is the top retailer of propane in the U.S. and the largest installer of permanent trailer hitches in the automotive aftermarket industry. We were recently named one of America's Best Large Employers (Forbes, 2023); a Best for Vets Employer (Military Times, 2022); and one of the Healthiest Workplaces in America (Healthiest Employers, 2022). Find careers at uhauljobs.com. Get the U-Haul app from the App Store or Google Play.

Contact:

Andrea Batchelor

Jeff Lockridge

E-mail: [email protected]

Phone: 602-263-6194

Website: uhaul.com

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SOURCE U-Haul
COLLEGE PARK, Md. , Aug. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- A July tornado that tore across the Rocky Mount, N.C. , region left severe damage including to a Pfizer facility. Amid subsequent supply chain disruption, the manufacturer alerted hospitals to a list of 12 drugs available only through emergency orders "due to their high medical need," effective "immediately and until further notice." The disruption further prompted action from risk management expert Clifford Rossi and students in the Master of Quantitative Finance (MQF) program at the University of Maryland's Robert H. Smith School of Business.

They produced a risk assessment database covering 6,000-plus manufacturing -- pharmaceutical and other -- facilities registered with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Their findings show tornadoes as the third biggest exposure for these facilities, with riverine flooding another significant risk -- more than hurricanes, coastal flooding and wildfires.

"Extreme weather events and increased concerns over climate change further pressure already-strained drug supply chains and pose significant risk not only to the manufacturers, but also to insurers and end-users such as patients and consumers," says Rossi, professor of the practice, executive-in-residence and director of the Smith Enterprise Risk Consortium. "Having the ability to know where potential hazard risk exists can be of enormous value to drug manufacturers in deciding where to locate plants as well as to harden them against these hazards."

Rossi, with Smith MQF students Matthew Rumrill and Harini Mantripragada , analyzed the domestic drug manufacturing sites via the FDA's Drug Establishments Registration Site database in conjunction with data from FEMA's National Risk Index. The latter includes risk ratings for 18 different natural hazards and assigns an overall risk rating for each census tract and county in the United States .

Some notable takeaways, Rossi says, are:

the natural hazards with the largest number of sites in high-risk areas, in order, are "lightning," "winter weather," "tornado," "strong wind" and "ice storm;"

about 42 percent of the total 6,024 FDA-registered manufacturing facilities including the pharma facilities (with operations including packaging, labeling and analysis) are in high-risk areas for tornadoes;

by contrast, hurricane risk, is well down the list of the 18 hazards affecting the facilities, with just 11 percent of all sites in high-risk hurricane areas;

riverine and coastal flooding came in at 31 percent and 6 percent, respectively, in terms of the percentage of the manufacturing facilities in high-risk flooding areas;

nearly 17 percent of the facilities are in high-risk wildfire areas; and

states with the highest-risk exposure to natural hazards are California , Florida and Texas . In California , about 95% of pharma plants are located in relatively-to-very high hazard areas across all hazard types.

"The assessment's implications are critical to maintaining a continuous supply of drugs across the U.S. ," Rossi says. "The work also illustrates Smith students  in this case Matt and Harini -- producing analysis that's real-time and impactful to markets."

Read more about the Smith Enterprise Risk Consortium and Smith's Business Master's Programs.

About the University of Maryland's Robert H. Smith School of Business

The Robert H. Smith School of Business is an internationally recognized leader in management education and research. One of 12 colleges and schools at the University of Maryland, College Park, the Smith School offers undergraduate, full-time and flex MBA, executive MBA, online MBA, business master's, PhD and executive education programs, as well as outreach services to the corporate community. The school offers its degree, custom and certification programs in learning locations in North America and Asia.

Media Contact:

Greg Muraski

[email protected]

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SOURCE University of Maryland's Robert H. Smith School of Business
The leading retailer will display GPHG 2023 category nominees at their SoHo Flagship from October 18th through October 21st

NEW YORK , Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Following their first-of-its kind exhibition of the 2022 GPHG winners, Watches of Switzerland is honored to announce an extension of their exclusive North American partnership with the Grand Prix D'Horlogerie de Geneve (GPHG). Founded in 2001, the GPHG is overseen by the Canton and City of Geneva and was created with the purpose of highlighting and awarding the most remarkable contemporary horological creations. With the intention of promoting the art of watchmaking worldwide and ahead of its annual November award ceremony, often affectionately referred to as the "Oscars" of the watch industry, the GPHG will honor this year's nominees with a world-wide exhibition that will make stops in New York City , Macao , Hong Kong , Kuala Lumpur , Geneva , Dubai , and Zurich. In partnership with Watches of Switzerland , the 2023 GPHG nominees' world exhibition will make a stop in New York City , exclusively on display in North America at the leading retailer's SoHo flagship.

"Since we opened our SoHo flagship in 2018, Watches of Switzerland has made it our mission to not only be a leading retail destination but to also be a place of discovery and education for the United States watch community," says David Hurley , Watches of Switzerland Group Deputy CEO. He continues, "We are honored to expand our partnership with the prestigious GPHG organization and help spotlight a wider representation of this year's top feats in watchmaking. We look forward to welcoming long-time clients and first-time watch enthusiasts alike to visit our public exhibition of the 2023 GPHG nominees."

As an extension of their partnership with the GPHG, Watches of Switzerland will host the world's exclusive North American exhibition of nominees from all 15 categories of the 2023 GPHG awards. In an effort to continue to expand and foster the United States watch community, Watches of Switzerland's exhibition will be open to the public from Wednesday, October 18 th through Saturday, October 21 st at their SoHo, New York flagship. This will be the first exhibition of the GPHG 2023 nominees and only public access to the collection of esteemed and prestigious horological pieces in North America , following the announcement ceremony, on August 30 th.

www.watchesofswitzerland.com

October 18 th October 21 st

Watches of Switzerland SoHo

60 Greene Street

Appointments Encouraged

For Media Inquires

Battalion PR

Robbie Cantonwine : +1 619 964 6549 / [email protected]

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About the Watches of Switzerland Group

The Watches of Switzerland Group is the UK's largest luxury watch retailer, operating in the UK , US and Europe comprising five prestigious brands; Watches of Switzerland ( UK and US), Mappin & Webb ( UK ), Goldsmiths ( UK ), Mayors (US) and Betteridge (US), with a complementary jewellery offering.

As at 30 July 2023 , the Watches of Switzerland Group had 202 showrooms across the UK , US and Europe including 87 dedicated mono-brand boutiques in partnership with Rolex, OMEGA, TAG Heuer, Breitling, TUDOR, Audemars Piguet, Grand Seiko, BVLGARI and FOPE and has a leading presence in Heathrow Airport with representation in Terminals 2, 3, 4 and 5 as well as seven retail websites.

The Watches of Switzerland Group is proud to be the UK's largest retailer for Rolex, OMEGA, Cartier, TAG Heuer and Breitling watches.

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FILE PHOTO: A name tag for Niger's Chief of Defense staff is seen at the ECOWAS meeting on the deployment of its standby force in the Republic of Niger, in Accra, Ghana. August 17, 2023. REUTERS/Francis Kokoroko/File Photo

(Reuters) - Algeria is proposing an initiative to resolve the political crisis in neighbouring Niger with a six-month transition period led by a civilian, Foreign Minister Ahmed Attaf said on Tuesday.

Attaf, who recently toured West African states, said "most of the countries we have talked to are against military intervention to end the crisis".

West African army chiefs from the regional ECOWAS bloc met in Ghana last week to discuss a possible military intervention in Niger after members of its presidential guard seized power last month and established a junta.

Algeria has repeatedly said it was against military intervention, pointing to the chaos that followed NATO action in Libya in 2011 during its uprising against longtime leader Muammar Gaddafi.

Algerian officials have spoken three times since the coup to the Niger military leader, who wants a transitional period of up to three years, Attaf said.

As part of its initiative, Algeria would seek a United Nations conference to restore constitutional order, propose guarantees for all sides in the crisis and host a conference on development in the Sahel region, it said without elaborating.

Last week Algerian state television said President Abdelmadjid Tebboune had denied permission to France for a possible military operation in Niger, but France denied it had sought any such permission.

(Reporting by Lamine Chikhi, writing by Angus McDowall, editing by Andrew Cawthorne and Alex Richardson)
Not only will it coincide with the start of the presidential primary season, but it will also likely clash with other court proceedings involving him and his associates.

Chutkan rejected both proposed dates as "unacceptable." However, the trial date she set could complicate Trump's presidential campaign and legal battles on multiple fronts.

Trump is currently the favorite to win the Republican nomination. Prosecutors had wanted to begin the trial on Jan. 2, while the Trump defense team sought to put it off until April 2026, more than two years after the election.

U.S. District Judge Tanya Chutkan, who is presiding over the case, set the high-profile trial for March 4, a day before Super Tuesday when voters in 15 states go to the polls to pick their party nominees for the 2024 presidential election.

The trial of former U.S. President Donald Trump on charges of plotting to overturn the 2020 presidential election will be held next March, a federal judge ruled Monday.

In the southern U.S. state of Georgia, where Trump and 18 others were recently indicted for conspiring to overturn the election outcome there, prosecutors have proposed a March 4 trial date. A judge has yet to set a date.

Three weeks later on March 25, Trump is scheduled to go on trial in New York in connection with a hush money payment to an adult movie start ahead of the 2016 presidential election.

And on May 20, he'll face a jury in Florida, where he was charged in June with illegally retaining classified documents after he left office and hiding them from investigators.

For Trump's federal election interference trial to proceed, the dates of his state trials in New York and Georgia would have to be adjusted, according to legal experts. "It would seem that something has to give in trials expected to last weeks," Jonathan Turley, a law professor at The George Washington University, wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter.

Chutkan said she had spoken with the New York judge who is overseeing the hush money case. The Manhattan prosecutor has previously signaled an openness to change the trial date.

In the federal election interference case brought by special counsel Jack Smith, Trump faces four felony counts, including conspiracy to defraud the U.S. and conspiracy to obstruct an official proceeding. He has pleaded not guilty to the charges.

Trump's lawyers sought to delay the trial date citing the millions of pages of documents they must review and a potential conflict with other pending criminal cases.

Speaking during Monday's hearing, John Lauro, one of Trump's attorneys, called the government's proposed trial date "a violation to the oath of justice," saying never in history has a "case of this magnitude" gone to trial in four months.

But Chutkan, noting that the case featured one defendant and four counts, said the defense didn't need two years to "investigate" the case and prepare for trial. Alluding to Trump's presidential campaign, she said that setting a trial date "does not, should not, depend on a defendant's personal and professional obligations."

"Mr. Trump, like any defendant, will have to make the trial date work, regardless of his schedule," Chutkan said. Trump is the first former American president to face criminal charges. If convicted, he could spend the rest of his life behind bars.

Until his most recent criminal indictment in Georgia, Trump had dodged the ordeal of having to pose for a mugshot. But last week, he was made to face the camera when he was booked into an Atlanta jail, becoming the first former American president to have his mug shot taken.

Trump and his 18 co-defendants in Georgia will be arraigned on Sept. 5, according to a court filing Monday. They each face one count of violating Georgia's Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) Act, as well as other charges.

One of Trump's 18 co-defendants, former White House chief of staff Mark Meadows, took the stand Monday in federal court in Atlanta to argue that his case should be moved from state to federal court.

Meadows faces two counts: one RICO count and one count of solicitation of violation of oath by a public officer. Of the four indictments Trump faces, the federal election fraud case looms the largest. But how it will impact Trump's presidential run remains to be seen.

Thus far, Trump has defied the odds and remained the front-runner of the Republican Party, despite mounting legal troubles. But a guilty verdict on the election interference charge could change that, according to Allan Lichtman, a professor of American history at American University in Washington.

"What if [Trump] is sitting in jail, which is not impossible, either," Lichtman said. "Technically, the guy could still run, but would the Republicans really want at the top of their ticket a guy who's been convicted of subverting our democracy?"
FILE PHOTO: The Apple Inc logo is seen at the entrance to the Apple store in Brussels, Belgium November 28, 2022. REUTERS/Yves Herman

(Reuters) -Apple said on Tuesday it would host its fall event on Sept. 12, setting the stage for what analysts believe will be the unveiling of a new line of iPhones and smartwatches.

The event will be hosted at the Steve Jobs Theater at its headquarters in Cupertino, California, according to invites from the world's most valuable company.

Wall Street analysts have said Apple will try to entice shoppers with a range of new features for its flagship device, as the launch comes against the backdrop of a slump in smartphone demand globally.

Apple posted a 2.4% decline in iPhone sales for its fiscal third quarter - a rare drop for the product that has for years powered the company's growth.

The most expensive variant of the new generation iPhone will have a periscope camera that could improve zoom capacity by 5 times or more, according TF International Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo.

The expected watch lineup may feature a new processor based on Apple's A15 Bionic chip, already used in previous iPhone models, and will boost performance, according to a Bloomberg News report.

(Reporting by Chavi Mehta in Bengaluru; Editing by Sriraj Kalluvila)
By Timothy Gardner

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The Biden administration on Tuesday weakened a rule regulating pollution of waterways to conform with a ruling by the U.S. Supreme Court that limited the regulatory reach of the Environmental Protection Agency.

The court in May decided 9-0 to overturn a lower court's ruling against a couple in Idaho, Chantell and Michael Sackett, that had upheld the EPA's determination that their property near a lake contained wetlands protected by the Clean Water Act of 1972.

President Joe Biden has argued that the ruling upended the legal framework used for decades to fight water pollution and pledged to use every legal power his administration has to protect waters from pollution.

The EPA and the U.S. Department of the Army Corps of Engineers issued a final rule on Tuesday amending a standard it issued in January that revised the definition of which water bodies constituted "waters of the United States" under the 1972 Clean Water Act.

Under the January revision, the waters included traditional navigable waters, impoundments of qualifying waters, tributaries to qualifying waters and wetlands adjacent to qualifying waters.

Many farmers and landowners had slammed the broad interpretation, saying the EPA had overreached its powers.

The EPA administrator Michael Regan said he was "disappointed" by the Supreme Court's decision but that the administration had an obligation to apply the decision alongside co-regulators in state and tribes.

The EPA said the new amendments were limited and changed only parts of the 2023 rule that were invalid under the Sackett decision.

The final rule, for example, removed a standard called the "significant nexus test" from consideration when identifying tributaries and other waters as federally protected. The standard was meant to identify waters that significantly affect the chemical or biological integrity of traditional navigable waters and interstate waters.

Madeleine Foote, deputy legislative director for the League of Conservation Voters nonprofit group, said the court's decision leaves critical wetlands and other waters open to pollution and destruction and urged Congress to boost clean water protections.

The administration was forced to tweak the rule to reflect the court's "disregard of science, the law, and basic commonsense to put the profits of polluters ahead of the health of our communities," especially communities of color, Foote said.

(Reporting by Timothy Gardner; Editing by Marguerita Choy)
RIO DE JANEIRO (Reuters) - Police in the northeastern Brazilian state of Bahia killed two men suspected of involvement in the murder of nine people in the town of Mata de Sao Joao, while another suspect was arrested, the state security office said on Tuesday.

The charred remains of nine people were found on Monday inside two houses in Mata de Sao Joao. Three of the victims were children, said police, who are still investigating what sparked the massacre.

The grisly incident is the latest in a spate of drug gang violence that has engulfed the state of Bahia in recent years. Four of Brazil's five most violent cities are now located in the state, according to the Brazilian Public Security Yearbook. Many are located close to state capital Salvador.

The alleged perpetrators were located by security forces in a forested area of the city, where they were apparently hiding out, the security office said. A firefight broke out when police found them.

A fourth suspect is still at large, with efforts underway to locate him, the statement said. Two pistols, ammunition, radio communicators and drugs were seized from the suspects.

(Reporting by Rodrigo Viga Gaier; Editing by Alistair Bell)
By Ana Mano

SAO PAULO (Reuters) - Brazilian agriculture startup Solinftec plans to accelerate deliveries of its farming robot in Brazil and in the United States, CEO Britaldo Hernandez said in an interview, in a sign of growing demand for "precision agriculture" tools in two of the world's largest food producers.

Sold at a price of $50,000, the Solix AG Robotics unit can scout crops and monitor development of individual plants, as well as target-spray herbicide to save costs.

Solinftec plans to deliver 40 units to customers this year and 250 next year in the U.S. and Brazil, Hernandez said, up from 20 units delivered in 2022.

Solinftec says it can produce 1,600 units per year at two factories, one in Brazil and the other in the U.S.

The company says it is the first robot developed for large scale farming. Like other precision-agriculture technologies such as drones and satellite imagery, the robot aims to help food producers avoid waste and use analytics to improve yields and engage in more sustainable production practices.

The machine, powered by artificial intelligence, includes a "hunter" feature that eliminates insects using light beams and electrical shocks, Hernandez said.

"If the robot can wander 24 hours, all year round on the property, it can understand and act on the farm's entire ecosystem," he said. "We wanted a robot that lived on the farm."

Farmers in the U.S. corn belt who tested the robot's sprayer feature there cut herbicide use by up to 95% on average, Solinftec said.

Hernandez said the robot, which runs on solar power, can monitor all types of crops, including soy, corn, sugarcane, onions, potatoes and tomatoes.

Solinftec, backed by Brazil's Trajano family, which owns the retail empire Magazine Luiza, says it has recurring revenues of $60 million annually.

Sugar giant Raizen is among the companies receiving deliveries of Solinftec's robot while grain behemoth Amaggi is already using it, Hernandez said. Some 300 clients have placed orders and currently await delivery, according to company disclosures.

(This story has been corrected after an official revision by Solinftec CEO to say that Raizen has ordered the robot while Amaggi is already using it, in paragraph 11)

(Reporting by Ana Mano; Editing by Andy Sullivan)
President of Brazil Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva and President Joe Biden walk along the West Colonnade to the Oval Office at the White House in Washington, U.S. February 10, 2023. Sarah Silbiger/Pool via REUTERS/File photo

SAO PAULO (Reuters) - Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva said on Tuesday he wants to discuss the possibility of making changes to the United Nations Security Council with his U.S. counterpart Joe Biden.

Lula, who has long campaigned for Brazil and other countries to be permanently included in the council, is expected to meet Biden on the sidelines of the U.N. General Assembly next month in New York.

Last week, during a summit of the BRICS group of emerging nations in South Africa, the leftist leader called on fellow BRICS members China and Russia to support more countries entering the council as permanent members.

Lula says the council must reflect current global geopolitical conditions instead of those of the 1940s, suggesting that countries such as Brazil, India, Germany, Japan and South Africa should be made permanent members.

The Brazilian leader added in a live broadcast on social media that BRICS members have agreed to discuss until next year's summit the possibility of establishing a common currency for trade between them.

He also said he hopes the Brazilian Congress will help his administration "protect the poorest, not the richest" in the country, after he signed an executive order to tax closed-end and offshore funds.

The measures, now pending congressional approval, are seen as essential for the government to boost public revenue and reach its commitment to zero primary deficit by next year, as they offset a revenue loss from expanded income tax exemptions for individuals.

Lula is widely expected to announce a cabinet reshuffle soon in order to secure more support for his administration in Congress, naming some members from centrist and center-right parties as ministers.

Creating a new ministry has been floated as a way to diversify his team without making major changes to the current cabinet, and Lula said on Tuesday he is now considering establishing a ministry of small- and medium-sized businesses.

(Reporting by Gabriel Araujo and Eduardo Simoes; Editing by Kylie Madry)
By Kanishka Singh

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - U.S. rapper Eminem has asked Republican presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy, a multimillionaire former biotech executive, to not use his music during his presidential campaign, according to a letter disclosed on Monday.

In the letter dated Aug. 23, which was reported first by the Daily Mail, BMI, a performing rights organization, informed Ramaswamy's campaign at the rapper's request that it will no longer license Eminem's music for use by Ramaswamy's campaign.

"BMI has received a communication from Marshall B. Mathers, III, professionally known as Eminem, objecting to the Vivek Ramaswamy campaign's use of Eminem's musical composition (the "Eminem Works") and requesting that BMI remove all Eminem Works from the Agreement," BMI says in the letter.

Ramaswamy's campaign told CNN it will comply with the request to stop using Eminem's music.

Ramaswamy, a businessman with no political experience, has been rising in some opinion polls and has branded his rivals as "bought and paid for."

The 38-year-old tech entrepreneur was at the center of many of last week's first Republican primary debate's most dramatic moments.

Ramaswamy, a fierce defender of former U.S. President Donald Trump, faced plenty of incoming fire from his more experienced rivals, who appeared to view him as more of a threat than Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, who has been trailing Trump as a distant second for a long time in the Republican primary polls.

Trump, the overwhelming front runner in the primary contest, skipped the first debate last week. He gave an interview to former Fox News host Tucker Carlson, which was released on X, formerly called Twitter, at the same time as the Republican debate.

(Reporting by Kanishka Singh in Washington; Editing by Leslie Adler)
FILE PHOTO: A combine harvests wheat in a field in the course of Russia-Ukraine conflict near the settlement of Nikolske in the Donetsk Region, Russian-controlled Ukraine, July 19, 2023. REUTERS/Alexander Ermochenko/File Photo

By Pavel Polityuk

KYIV (Reuters) - Ukrainian farmers are not expected to reduce the area of winter wheat they sow for the 2024 harvest despite higher logistics costs due to the wartime export crisis, a senior farming official told Reuters on Tuesday.

Ukraine is a major wheat producer and the demise of the Black Sea corridor used to safely export grain during the war spurred speculation that farmers could sow less wheat because of shrinking profit margins due to costlier export routes.

On Monday, the agriculture ministry quoted survey data as showing that farmers could indeed cut the area of winter wheat sowing, while increasing the area of winter rape for 2024 to a record high level.

However, First Deputy Agriculture Minister Taras Vysotskiy told Reuters on Tuesday that the possible reduction of winter wheat may total only 0.1%.

"Wheat not significantly - minus 0.1%" he said. The estimate has not previously been reported.

An expected reduction in the overall winter grain sowing area would come at the expense of other grains, he said, forecasting a drop of 5.4% in barley sowing this winter.

Ukraine sowed about 4.1 million hectares of winter wheat for the 2023 harvest, while the area under winter barley stood at around 615,000 hectares.

Ukraine is a traditional grower of winter wheat, which accounts for at least 95% of the country's overall wheat output.

Farmers have already completed the 2023 wheat harvest, threshing 21.94 million metric tons. The harvest totalled 20.7 million tons in 2022.

The ministry has given no forecast for the total 2024 sowing area, but said the overall winter crop sowing area could rise by 0.5 million hectares, or 8%, compared to the previous season.

Traders say an increase in the sowing area of winter crops, especially in winter oilseeds, could mean that farmers sow less spring grain crops, with corn and spring barley most likely to suffer.

Ukraine can currently export limited volumes through small river ports on the Danube and via its western land border with the European Union.

That forced local producers to adjust their sowing plans in 2023 and switched from grain crops to oilseeds, which are more expensive but produce less volume.

Ukraine already reduced its sowing area for corn in favour of sunflowers in 2023.

(Reporting by Pavel Polityuk; editing by Tom Balmforth and Conor Humphries)
FILE PHOTO: Chinese tourists take pictures in the Champs Elysees Avenue near the Arc de Triomphe in Paris, France, March 14, 2023. REUTERS/Gonzalo Fuentes/File Photo

PARIS (Reuters) - France is hoping to get up to 67 billion euros ($72.42 billion)worth of revenues from foreign tourists in 2023, beating last year's figure of 58 billion, French Tourism Minister Olivia Gregoire said on Tuesday.

France is the world's most visited country for tourists, and tourism accounts for around 8% of French gross domestic product.

"We have had a very good summer," Gregoire told reporters.

Gregoire said that, based on current estimates, the final figures for revenues generated from foreign tourists in 2023 should come in between 64-67 billion euros.

The global tourism and travel sector has bounced back over the past two years, as countries came out of lockdowns aimed at curbing the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Aviation executives and analysts told Reuters last month that the numbers of North American tourists thronging the streets of Europe's top destinations were set to fuel healthy earnings for airlines this quarter and onwards.

($1 = 0.9252 euros)

(Reporting by Sudip Kar-Gupta; Editing by Alison Williams)
FILE PHOTO: Alexandre Bompard, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of French retailer Carrefour, attends the MEDEF union summer forum "La Rencontre des Entrepreneurs de France, LaREF" at the Paris Longchamp Racecourse in Paris, France, August 30, 2022. R

By Dominique Vidalon

PARIS (Reuters) -The CEO of French retailer Carrefour on Tuesday warned that high prices have forced consumers to make massive cuts to spending on essential goods, and urged the government to delay a law putting a cap on promotions retailers can offer.

"We are seeing a non-spending tsunami in France," Chairman and Chief Executive Alexandre Bompard told Franceinfo radio. "When essential staples are no longer accessible, when people go without essential goods, one must act."

The comments, which sent Carrefour shares down more than 4%, were the latest salvo in a blame game between the French government and retailers on who is responsible for the increase in the cost of living.

As Europe's inflation shock eases, France is seeing less of a retreat in prices than many countries due to a surge in food inflation since March after annual price negotiations between retailers and producers.

The government is eager to get food inflation - more than twice the overall French inflation rate of 5.1% in July - on a downward path, wary that such high levels could undermine fragile consumer confidence.

Household confidence remained stable for the third month in a row in August, but was well below its long-term average, according to a monthly survey from the INSEE statistics agency.

Bompard, who is among French retail executives due to meet Finance Minister Bruno Le Maire on Wednesday to discuss how to lower prices, said he would ask for a one-year moratorium on the application of the law, which is currently scheduled to take effect next March.

The so-called Descrozaille law, which was passed in March this year, extends a limit of 34% on promotions that retailers can apply to food items to beauty, hygiene and care products.

Bompard, who has slashed prices to win back shoppers in the face of stiff competition, said that while today Carrefour is free to sell washing powder at a 60% discount, it would no longer be able to do so when the law takes effect.

The law's stated aim was to protect small producers in price negotiations with retailers.

Retailers like Carrefour, however, say it limits their bargaining power with large suppliers, and Bompard on Tuesday said the new rules benefit only global multinationals like Procter & Gamble, Henkel and Unilever.

'SITUATION OF DEPRIVATION'

"They see their margins increase while the French are in a situation of deprivation," Bompard told Franceinfo. P&G, Unilever and Henkel did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

Le Maire in March secured pledges from 75 food producers to cut prices on hundreds of products, but a junior minister last month said that only about 40 had made good on their promise.

On Tuesday, Le Maire vowed to step up pressure on retailers and producers to accelerate price cuts.

"We are on the right track," he said. "Prices are now falling because we have intervened, because we put pressure on retailers and producers and because we will continue to do so."

"I am meeting retailers tomorrow and the producers the day after tomorrow ... with one objective: accelerate the fall of prices."

Le Maire said he would ask them to widen the range of products on which prices can be cut, and also said he wanted more producers to play ball.

"There are 35 today. I think we can have more producers joining us in this fight against the high cost of living," he said.

(Reporting by Dominique VidalonAdditional reporting by Geert de Clercq; Editing by Silvia Aloisi, David Goodman and Conor Humphries)
PARIS/BAGHDAD (Reuters) - A French soldier was killed in a four-hour firefight in Iraq when French and Iraqi forces raided an Islamic State hideout, Iraqi security sources said on Tuesday.

Three other French and five Iraqi soldiers were wounded in the clash in a rural area of Iraq's northern Salahuddin province on Monday evening, two security sources said.

The French Presidency confirmed the death and named the soldier as Nicolas Mazier of a French special forces unit taking part in a raid with Iraq's Counter Terrorism Service troops against an Islamic State hide-out.

The French and Iraqi forces landed by helicopters in the al-Eth area after an Iraqi air strike on the militants' position but came under intense attack, the sources said.

"It was clearly an ambush by terrorists," one Iraqi security source said. The battle lasted for more than four hours.

Iraq declared final victory over Islamic State in December 2017 but it still operates in separate groups in pockets of northern and western Iraq and still carries ambushes, assassinations and bombings across Iraq.

The hardline group has resorted to guerrilla tactics since it abandoned its goal of holding territory and creating a self-sufficient caliphate straddling Iraq and Syria.

(Reporting by Dominique Vidalon in Paris and Ahmed Rasheed in Baghdad; Editing by Ingrid Melander and Angus MacSwan)
Ransomware attacks on critical infrastructure such as hospitals and pipelines can be particularly profitable, the report said. Cyber criminals continue to show resilience and an ability to innovate their business model, it said.

In a report released Monday, the Communications Security Establishment (CSE) identified Russia and Iran as cybercrime safe havens where criminals can operate against Western targets.

Organized cybercrime is set to pose a threat to Canada's national security and economic prosperity over the next two years, a national intelligence agency said on Monday.

"Organized cybercrime will very likely pose a threat to Canada's national security and economic prosperity over the next two years," said CSE, which is the Canadian equivalent of the U.S. National Security Agency. "Ransomware is almost certainly the most disruptive form of cybercrime facing Canada because it is pervasive and can have a serious impact on an organization's ability to function," it said.

Official data show that in 2022, there were 70,878 reports of cyber fraud in Canada with over C$530 million ($390 million) stolen.

But Chris Lynam, director general of Canada's National Cybercrime Coordination Centre, said very few crimes were reported and the real amount stolen last year could easily be C$5 billion or more. "Every sector is being targeted along with all types of businesses as well... folks really have to make sure that they're taking this seriously," he told a briefing.

Russian intelligence services and law enforcement almost certainly maintain relationships with cyber criminals and allow them to operate with near impunity as long as they focus on targets outside the former Soviet Union, CSE said. Moscow has consistently denied that it carries out or supports hacking operations.

Tehran likely tolerates cybercrime activities by Iran-based cyber criminals that align with the state's strategic and ideological interests, CSE added.
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz gives a statement ahead of a closed cabinet meeting at Schloss Meseberg, near Gransee, Germany, August 29, 2023. REUTERS/Lisi Niesner

By Andreas Rinke and Maria Martinez

MESEBERG, Germany (Reuters) -Germany's coalition on Tuesday set aside weeks of squabbling to agree to a total of 32 billion euros ($34.63 billion) in corporate tax cuts over four years to boost the flagging economy.

A previous attempt to pass the "Growth Opportunities Law" earlier this month failed in what was widely seen as a sign the governing coalition of two socially-minded leftist parties and one economically liberal party was too unwieldy to govern.

"We'll discuss how to achieve a big boost," Chancellor Olaf Scholz said at the start of a two-day cabinet retreat at Schloss Meseberg, a baroque castle outside Berlin. "The German economy can do more."

The German economy stagnated in the second quarter, showing no sign of recovery from a winter recession and cementing its position as one of the world's weakest major economies.

According to the draft seen by Reuters, in its first year the stimulus package, modest in the context of a $4 trillion economy, will cause a tax revenue shortfall of 2.6 billion euros for the federal government, 2.5 billion euros for the states and 1.9 billion euros for the municipalities.

The law was championed by liberal Finance Minister Christian Lindner, but then stymied when Greens Family Minister Lisa Paus sought 12 billion euros for child support.

An agreement was reached on Tuesday when the two sides agreed to cut the planned Child Basic Insurance to just over two billion euros.

Lindner dismissed calls for the government to spend to help the economy grow again, saying spending would stoke inflation and corporate tax cuts would have a bigger impact.

Public dissatisfaction with the performance of the coalition is mounting. A poll by Forsa published on Tuesday found 61% of respondents were so annoyed by coalition squabbling that they no longer paid attention to policy.

The poll also found 63% thought Scholz was a weak leader, up from 51% in April.

A government source, asking not to be named, said it was no longer acceptable to focus political discussion on subsidies.

A government document seen by Reuters showed subsidies are set to almost double to 67.1 billion euros next year compared to 2021. Almost two thirds of those subsidies are designed to help finance the green transition to a lower carbon economy.

The new law gives incentives to companies to make climate friendly investments, provides tax incentives for research and allows companies to offset more losses against profits from other financial years.

($1 = 0.9265 euros)

(Additional reporting by Matthias Williams, Christian KraemerWriting by Thomas Escritt, Editing by Tomasz Janowski, Ed Osmond and Barbara Lewis)
By Sharon Bernstein

(Reuters) -A University of North Carolina graduate student has been charged in the fatal shooting on Monday of a professor, an incident that prompted an hours-long lockdown at the school's Chapel Hill campus.

Court records show Tailei Qi, age 34 according to media reports, was charged with first-degree murder and carrying a gun on an educational campus in the killing of Zijie Yan, an associate professor in applied physical sciences at the school since 2019.

Yan was the father of two young children and a beloved colleague, mentor and friend to many on campus, Chancellor Kevin Guskiewicz said in a press briefing on Tuesday.

A university website showed Qi was a doctoral student who had joined Yan's research group in January 2022.

Campus police Chief Brian James said on Tuesday no motive had been determined for the shooting.

Qi drove to campus on Monday and went directly to Yan's research lab, James said. Qi was gone by the time police arrived minutes after the shooting was reported at 1:02 p.m. local time.

His car was found on campus, but he was arrested by city police near his home in Chapel Hill about 1.5 miles (2.4 km) from campus, James said.

Qi made his first court appearance on Tuesday, James said.

Reports of shots fired led to a lockdown at the school, which has a student population of about 32,000, along with about 4,100 faculty and 9,000 staff members.

Public schools nearby also were locked down on their first day of class after summer break.

On Tuesday, the university said it had set up a hotline for students and faculty who needed to talk about the incident as well as those who need other counseling services.

"We know that the wounds of this tragedy will not heal quickly," Guskiewicz said in an email announcing Yan's death to the campus community.

He said the university would ring the campus bell tower and hold a moment of silence on Wednesday afternoon in Yan's honor.

(Reporting by Sharon BernsteinEditing by Colleen Jenkins and Matthew Lewis)
View of a burned forest following a wildfire, near the village of Avantas in the region of Evros, Greece, August 28, 2023. REUTERS/Alexandros Avramidis

By Stamos Prousalis and Karolina Tagaris

EVROS, Greece/ATHENS (Reuters) - A wildfire burning in northeastern Greece for 11 days has destroyed an area larger than New York City, the European Union-backed Copernicus Climate Change Service said on Tuesday, as firefighters from five countries battled to contain the flames.

Fuelled by gale force winds and hot weather, the fire that began near the city of Alexandroupolis quickly spread across the Evros region, killing at least 20 people last week in Europe's deadliest blaze this summer. It turned lush greenery into scorched earth and destroyed homes and livelihoods.

In a post on social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter, the Copernicus Emergency Management Service said the fire had ravaged at least 808.7 square kilometres (312.2 square miles). New York City takes up 778.2 square kilometres (300.5 square miles).

Copernicus said last week the fire was the largest on European soil in years, and authorities said the fire was still highly dangerous.

Aircraft and hundreds of firefighters on the ground, including from Albania, Serbia, Slovakia and the Czech Republic, were battling the flames, the fire brigade said.

"We are trying to defend the rest of the unaffected area before the front line of the fire comes," said Jiri Nemcik, commander of the Czech team. "The development of the fire is very dynamic so it's very dangerous."

Satellite images highlight the extent of the destruction in the area where formerly lush pine trees have been reduced to blackened, skeletal bark.

Panagiota Maragou, head of conservation at the Greece division of the World Wildlife Fund (WWF), said at least 30% of the National Park of Dadia-Lefkimi-Soufli Forest had been lost.

Because of its high biodiversity, the national park was "one of the most important protected areas in Greece and also in Europe, perhaps also on an international scale," she said.

Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis chaired a meeting on Tuesday on the fires that have ravaged Greece, touching on preventative measures among other issues, a statement from his office said.

Environmentalists have long accused Greece of spending more funds on extinguishing fires than on prevention.

"We've seen in the case of Dadia and in the case of the Evros fire in general ... one of the biggest fires in Europe, that a system that relies exclusively on suppression of fires is not working," Maragou said.

Summer wildfires are common in Greece but the government says extreme weather conditions that scientists link to climate change have made them worse this year. Greece's deadliest fire on record killed 104 people outside Athens in 2018.

All but one of the dead in the Evros fire are believed to have been irregular migrants who crossed over from Turkey, evading police in the forest. Authorities fear more bodies may be found when the flames are put out, as Evros is a popular crossing into the EU for thousands of migrants and refugees every year.

The fires have spurred anti-immigrant sentiment in the region, according to Greece's Racist Violence Recording Network.

Last week, police detained three men after a video emerged on social media showing migrants in a trailer pulled by a jeep, and a man heard urging civilians to "round up" migrants he accused of setting the fires.

On Tuesday, a prosecutor launched a preliminary investigation into a separate incident after another video posted on social media showed four men, believed to be migrants, sitting on a dirt track beside a jeep, and a local man filming them, according to an official at the citizens' protection ministry.

The official said the man, who appeared at the Alexandroupolis police headquarters, had been wanted for his alleged involvement in the "forcible immobilisation" of migrants.

(Additional reporting Stelios Misinas in Athens; writing by Karolina Tagaris; editing by Mark Heinrich and Barbara Lewis)
FILE PHOTO: Guatemala's President-elect Bernardo Arevalo speaks during an interview with Reuters, at his home in Guatemala City, Guatemala August 22, 2023. REUTERS/Pilar Olivares

By Sofia Menchu

GUATEMALA CITY (Reuters) -Guatemala's supreme electoral tribunal on Monday ratified the victory of center-left candidate Bernardo Arevalo in the country's presidential election, although a new bid to suspend his party sowed fresh confusion about the fraught process.

Arevalo, a 64-year-old ex-diplomat and son of a former president, resoundingly won the Aug. 20 second-round run-off after prosecutors had earlier threatened to bar his party, Semilla, from the election, prompting an international outcry.

Electoral tribunal officials declared Arevalo the victor at a press conference, then faced questions about a document from the citizens registry published in the media that ordered a temporary suspension of Semilla's legal registration.

In a press conference late on Monday, Arevalo said the suspension was illegal and the party would present an appeal at 7 a.m. the following day.

"The Semilla Movement will not give up," he said, denouncing what he called a process of political persecution against the party and his candidacy. He added that the registry had notified him of the suspension shortly before the official ratification.

Arevalo said he expected a call from current President Alejandro Giammattei to coordinate the transition and to take up the presidency alongside his deputy Karin Herrera on Jan. 14, 2024.

"These are the official results, and that's what counts in Guatemala," tribunal magistrate Gabriel Aguilera said.

Tribunal head Irma Palencia said the citizens registry was a lower authority and underlined that Arevalo was officially the winner.

The tribunal said Semilla had three days to file a suit against the suspension order, which Guatemalan newspaper Prensa Libre said had again come at the request of prosecutors.

Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador congratulated Arevalo on the win in a government statement expressing "concern over the different claims seeking to undermine the popular will as expressed in the polls."

The Organization of American States (OAS) also issued a statement saying the attempt to suspend Semilla was unjustified and an abusive interpretation of the law.

Late last week, the OAS human rights commission had called on Guatemala's government to increase security for Arevalo and Herrera, saying they were facing plots against their lives.

(Reporting by Sofia Menchu; Additional reporting by Carolina Pulice and Lizbeth Diaz; Writing by Sarah Morland; Editing by Leslie Adler, Stephen Coates and Raju Gopalakrishnan)
FILE PHOTO: The United Nations logo is seen on a window in an empty hallway at United Nations headquarters during the 75th annual U.N. General Assembly high-level debate in New York, U.S., September 21, 2020. REUTERS/Mike Segar/File Photo

BANGKOK (Reuters) - Hundreds of thousands of people are being trafficked by criminal gangs and forced to work in scam centres and other illegal online operations that have sprung up across Southeast Asia in recent years, the United Nations said in a report on Tuesday.

The report cited "credible sources" estimating that at least 120,000 people across Myanmar and around 100,000 in Cambodia may be trapped in scam operations, with other criminal-owned enterprises in Laos, the Philippines and Thailand ranging from crypto-fraud to online gambling.

"People who are coerced into working in these scamming operations endure inhumane treatment while being forced to carry out crimes. They are victims. They are not criminals," said U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk.

Cambodian police spokesperson Chhay Kim Khoeun said he had not seen the U.N. report but queried the number.

"I don't know how to respond, where did they get the (100,000) number from? Have they investigated? Where did they get the data? Foreigners are just saying things."

Myanmar's military-run government did not respond to requests for comment.

The U.N. Human Rights Office report was one of the most detailed of the phenomenon that has emerged since the COVID pandemic, fuelled by closure of casinos that prompted moves into less regulated areas in Southeast Asia.

The fast-growing scams centres are generating billions of U.S. dollars in revenue each year, the report said.

"Faced with new operational realities, criminal actors increasingly targeted migrants in vulnerable situations ... for recruitment into criminal operations, under the pretence of offering them real jobs," the report said.

It said most of the trafficking victims were from other Southeast Asian countries as well as China, Taiwan and Hong Kong, but some were recruited from as far away as Africa and Latin America.

The U.N. rights office called on regional governments to strengthen rule of law and tackle corruption to "break the cycle of impunity" that allows criminal enterprises to thrive.

(Writing by Kay Johnson; Editing by Nick Macfie)
Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund (IMF), Kristalina Georgieva attends in a round table to discuss global economy during the New Global Financial Pact Summit at the Palais Brongniart in Paris, France June 22, 2023. Ludovic Marin/Pool via

BEIJING (Reuters) - International Monetary Fund Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva will visit China from Wednesday to meet with top leaders, before travelling to Indonesia and India for ASEAN and Group of 20 summits, an IMF spokesperson said on Tuesday.

"During Aug. 30 to Sept. 3 the Managing Director will be visiting China to engage in bilateral discussions with China's senior leadership team," they said.

Georgieva will then travel to Jakarta to participate in a summit of leaders of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) before attending the G20 meeting for heads of state and government in New Delhi.

Last month, the IMF raised its 2023 global growth estimates slightly given resilient economic activity in the first quarter, but warned that persistent challenges were curtailing the medium-term outlook.

The lender projects global real gross domestic product growth of 3% in 2023, up 0.2 percentage point from its April forecast, but left its outlook for 2024 unchanged, also at 3%.

The Fund left its forecast for China unchanged, predicting the world's second-largest economy will grow by 5.2% this year, up from a COVID-subdued 3% in 2022, before falling to 4.5% in 2024, warning that China's recovery was underperforming and that a deeper contraction in the real estate sector remained a risk.

Georgieva will be in Jakarta from Sept. 4 to Sept. 7 and New Delhi from Sept. 8 to Sept. 10, the spokesperson added.

(Reporting by Joe Cash; Editing by Jacqueline Wong and Christian Schmollinger)
FILE PHOTO: A liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) delivery truck drives along India's Tezpur-Tawang highway which runs to the Chinese border, in the northeastern Indian state of Arunachal Pradesh May 29, 2012./File Photo

NEW DELHI (Reuters) - India said on Tuesday that it had lodged a strong protest with China over a new map that lays claim to India's territory, the latest irritant in testy ties between the Asian giants.

The protest by New Delhi followed reports in the Indian media that Beijing had released an official "standard map" showing the Indian state of Arunachal Pradesh and the Aksai Chin plateau as its official territory.

China claims Arunachal Pradesh in the eastern Himalayas to be a part of southern Tibet and had in April released a map renaming 11 places in the state as being within "Zangnan", or southern Tibet in Chinese.

Aksai Chin is a disputed plateau in the western Himalayas claimed by India but controlled by China.

"We have today lodged a strong protest through diplomatic channels with the Chinese side on the so-called 2023 'standard map' of China that lays claim to India;s territory," the Indian foreign ministry spokesperson said.

"We reject these claims as they have no basis. Such steps by the Chinese side only complicate the resolution of the boundary question," he said.

Earlier on Tuesday, India's foreign minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar dismissed China's territorial claims.

"Making absurd claims on India's territory does not make it China's territory," Jaishankar told news channel NDTV.

New Delhi's protest comes days after Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to China's President Xi Jinping on the sidelines of the BRICS summit in Johannesburg last week and highlighted concerns about the stand-off on their disputed Himalayan frontier.

Relations between the two nuclear-armed neighbours have plummeted after soldiers from both sides clashed in the Himalayas in June 2020, resulting in the death of 20 Indian soldiers and four Chinese troops.

While the situation on the nearly 3,000-km (1,860-mile)frontier has been calm since, the face-off continues in a few pockets with tens of thousands of soldiers amassed on both sides of the frontier in the western Himalayas.

(Reporting by YP Rajesh; Additional reporting by Rupam Jain and Sakshi Dayal; Editing by Alex Richardson)
FILE PHOTO: A Soyuz-2.1b rocket booster with a Fregat upper stage and the lunar landing spacecraft Luna-25 blasts off from a launchpad at the Vostochny Cosmodrome in the far eastern Amur region, Russia, August 11, 2023. Roscosmos/Vostochny Space Centre/Ha

MOSCOW (Reuters) -The Kremlin on Tuesday said that the failure of Russia's Luna-25 mission to the Moon earlier this month was "nothing terrible" and that the main thing was to continue Russia's space exploration program.

In a call with reporters, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said: "This is not a reason to despair, nor to tear our hair out. This is another reason to analyse the causes (of the failure) and eliminate them next time."

Luna-25, Russia's first lunar mission since 1976, crashed into the Moon on Aug. 19 after a failed orbital manoeuvre, in what has been seen abroad as a major blow to the Russian space program. Days later, an Indian spacecraft successfully landed on the moon.

"The main thing is not to stop. Our plans are quite ambitious and they will be implemented further," Peskov said.

(Writing by Felix Light; editing by Guy Faulconbridge and Mark Trevelyan)
BRASILIA (Reuters) - South American trade bloc Mercosur will have its counterproposal to a European Union addendum to their long-overdue trade accord ready in September, Brazil's Foreign Minister Mauro Vieira said on Tuesday.

Vieira told the country's farm state caucus in Congress that Mercosur's counterproposal to the EU's so-called side letter had been delayed by a change of government in Paraguay. But the Paraguayan reply will be ready by Sept. 17, the farm caucus's leader, Pedro Lupion, told reporters.

Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva said during a visit to Angola on Saturday that the EU side letter contained unacceptable "threats" to penalize countries.

European negotiators have been waiting since March for a reply to their addendum. The addendum includes environmental safeguards to address strong reservations expressed by many EU member countries about the deal, which has been under negotiation for two decades.

Lupion, a lawmaker from Parana state, said the Mercosur counterproposal will include attainable goals, and called the EU side letter "inconceivable."

"The European Union guidelines for reducing the climate impacts to the level they want would make agricultural production in Brazil unfeasible," he said.

The farm caucus leader said Brazil should weigh its trade ties with the EU because the European market accounts for 16% of Brazilian food exports compared with 38% for Asia.

However, another farm state lawmaker, Jose Medeiros of Mato Grosso, told Reuters the differences over environmental issues were secondary and can be resolved.

"This accord should have been signed long ago. It's a win-win for both blocs," he said.

(Reporting by Anthony Boadle; editing by Jonathan Oatis)
FILE PHOTO: Pakistan's former Prime Minister Imran Khan, gestures as he speaks to the members of the media at his residence in Lahore, Pakistan May 18, 2023. REUTERS/Mohsin Raza//File Photo/

By Asif Shahzad and Gibran Naiyyar Peshimam

ISLAMABAD (Reuters) - A Pakistani high court on Tuesday suspended jailed former Prime Minister Imran Khan's sentence on corruption charges, but he will remain behind bars as a judge had already ordered his detention in another case.

The 70-year-old former cricket star has been at the centre of a political crisis since he was ousted in a parliamentary vote of confidence in April 2022. The worst economic conditions in Pakistan in decades have compounded the crisis.

Khan was imprisoned on Aug. 5 after being sentenced to three years jail for unlawfully selling state gifts during his tenure as prime minister from 2018 to 2022.

The conviction has also barred him from contesting elections for five years.

On Tuesday, a court order said the sentence was suspended.

"We feel that the applicant is entitled to the suspension of sentence and be released on bail," it said.

Khan's lawyer Naeem Panjutha also announced the suspension on social media, saying "God be praised."

Despite the court ordering his release on bail, this will not get him out of jail as a judge had already ordered his detention in another case of leaking state secret. The judge directed authorities to produce Khan before him on Wednesday, according to an order seen by Reuters.

Nor will the suspension of the corruption sentence undo the ban on Khan's contesting elections as long as the conviction remains. National elections are due later this year and a caretaker government was appointed this month, but voting is likely to be delayed several months.

Khan's appeal petition had sought an immediate suspension of the sentence pending a final decision on his conviction on the grounds that he was convicted without being given the right to defend himself in a summary trial.

The prosecution, and Khan's political opponents, say the court accelerated the trial only after he ignored dozens of summons and arrest warrants for months.

STATE SECRETS

In the state secrets matter, a Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) case seen by Reuters said the former premier had been charged with making public the contents of a confidential cable sent by Pakistan's ambassador to the United States and using it for political gain.

Khan's top aide, former Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi, has already been arrested and questioned in the case.

Khan alleges that the cable proves his removal was at the behest of the United States, which he said pressed Pakistan's military to topple his government because he had visited Russia shortly before its invasion on Ukraine in February 2022.

Washington and the Pakistani military have denied that.

Khan's deteriorating relations with the powerful military, which traditionally decides who will rule the country, led to his fall.

The possible overturning of Khan's graft conviction is pending a detailed hearing in the court, according to a lawyer Abdul Moiz Jaferii.

"(Khan) being left at liberty is now hindered by him being required by the police and relevant investigation agencies in the multitude of other cases instituted against him," Jaferii said.

Khan faces dozens of cases, including charges of corruption, abetment to murder, treason and orchestrating violent protests that followed his initial arrest in May. He denies all the charges, terming them politically motivated cases.

Khan's party has called for his immediate release.

"Arresting him in any other case will cause further damage to our national integrity and repute of judicial system," Khan aide Zulfikar Bukhari said on social media.

"Let the innocent be free!" (The story has been refiled to change the day from Wednesday to Tuesday in paragraph 5)

(Reporting by Asif Shahzad in Islamabad and Gibran Peshimam in Karachi; Additional reporting by Ariba Shahid; Editing by Simon Cameron-Moore, Alex Richardson and Angus MacSwan)
NATO's newest member Finland plans to spend 2.3% of its gross domestic product (GDP) on defense next year, its defense ministry said on Monday.

In July, NATO's 31 member-nations agreed to spend a minimum of 2 percent of their GDP on defense. Previously the 2 percent target had been a goal to aim for over time and only seven allies met the target in 2022, according to NATO.

Finland joined the alliance in April, in a historic security policy U-turn in response to neighboring Russia's 2022 invasion of Ukraine.
FILE PHOTO: The logo of Chinese e-commerce platform Pinduoduo Inc. is displayed next to a mobile phone, in this illustration picture taken March 22, 2022. REUTERS/Florence Lo/Illustration

By Chavi Mehta and Casey Hall

(Reuters) - PDD Holdings beat second-quarter revenue estimates on Tuesday, as its discount e-commerce platform Pinduoduo attracted price-conscious customers in China and its international shopping site, Temu, continued its rapid growth.

The company said revenue jumped 66% from a year earlier to 52.28 billion yuan ($7.17 billion) in the quarter ended June 30, well above analysts' average estimate of 43.68 billion yuan, according to Refinitiv data.

U.S.-listed shares of the company, formerly just known as Pinduoduo, rose as much as 14.3% in premarket trading.

"Over the recent quarter, we saw a positive shift in consumer sentiment, leading to a rise in demand across various product sectors," said Co-Chief Executive Jiazhen Zhao.

PDD's net income attributable to ordinary shareholders rose to 13.11 billion yuan in the second quarter from 8.90 billion yuan a year earlier.

Spending during the Chinese 618 shopping festival period from late-May through mid-June also lifted sales.

Zhao told analysts on a call following the earnings release that Pinduoduo had invested billions of yuan in offering coupons across product sectors as part of that promotional period.

E-commerce platforms in China have been offering discounts and subsidies to lure shoppers in an uncertain economy. The focus on low-cost products helped Chinese firms such as JD.Com and Alibaba Group to report better-than-expected quarterly revenue earlier this month.

"As consumption recovers and consumers show stronger demand, it's not surprising to see peers stepping up subsidies," Zhao said, adding that offering "more savings" remains an important priority for Pinduoduo.

Temu, the sister app of Pinduoduo that sells everything from apparel to electronics at rock-bottom prices, has proven stiff competition to incumbents such as Shein and Amazon in the United States. It was the most downloaded shopping app in the U.S. and Canada in the second quarter, according to brokerage TH Data Capital.

The earnings release did not break out revenue for Temu specifically and when asked about its development by analysts, PDD executives only said the platform remained in its early stages and their focus was on understanding consumer needs in the new global markets it is entering.

Since launching in the United States last September, Temu has rolled out to 38 countries worldwide.

PDD Co-CEO Chen Lei also told analysts the company has formed a Legal and Compliance Committee, chaired by himself, which replaces the previous General Counsel role and function, effective immediately.

The U.S. House Select Committee on the China Communist Party in May launched an investigation into retailers' connections to forced labour in China's Xinjiang region, including any efforts to comply with the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act.

In June, the committee released preliminary findings stating that Temu "does not have any system to ensure compliance" with the act. Temu's 80,000 "suppliers agree to boilerplate terms and conditions that prohibit the use of forced labour," the report said.

($1 = 7.2923 Chinese yuan renminbi)

(Reporting by Chavi Mehta in Bengaluru and Casey Hall in Shanghai; Editing by Shilpi Majumdar and Susan Fenton)
(Reuters) - Russia's military is repelling a drone attack at an airport in the airport in the city of Pskov in western Russia, where four transport aircraft were damaged, officials said early on Wednesday.

"The Ministry of Defence is repelling a drone attack on Pskov airport," Pskov Governor Mikhail Vedernikov wrote on the Telegram messaging app.

According to initial reports, he said, there were no injuries.

Tass news agency, quoting emergency services, said four Il-76 transport aircraft, long the workhorse of the Russian military, were damaged at the military airfield.

"As a result of the drone attack, four Il-76 aircraft were damaged. A fire broke out and two planes burst into flames," Tass reported.

Videos posted by Russian media showed thick black smoke rising over the airport. They cited posts of local residents who heard explosions and gunfire.

Reports on Telegram channels said anti-aircraft systems were in action around the city, located close to the borders of Latvia and Estonia.

(Reporting by Maria Tsvetkova in New York; Editing by Ron Popeski and Lincoln Feast.)
YALTA, Crimea (Reuters) - In years past, Siberian Viktor Motorin could hop on a plane and arrive in Crimea just four hours later to relax at his holiday apartment. Now he must fly first to Moscow and then spend a day and a half on the train.

The war in Ukraine, now 18 months old, is making it harder for many Russians to reach their favourite summer haunts in the Black Sea region of Crimea, which Moscow seized and annexed from Ukraine in 2014.

And safety is a factor for some, especially after two major Ukrainian attacks since last October on the 19 km (12 mile) Crimean Bridge that links Russia by road and rail to the peninsula.

But after weighing up such concerns, Motorin, from the city of Khanty-Mansiysk in western Siberia, said he decided that making his annual trip was still a risk well worth taking.

"We calculated that it was reasonably safe, especially when my colleagues had already come here in June, early July. They said it was all calm here with no problems on the Crimea Bridge. The goods, the prices, everything is like before," he said.

'NEW CHALLENGES'

Russians have been drawn to the lush scenery and rocky coastline of Crimea since tsarist times, but now the choice of where to go on holiday is complicated by several factors relating to the war.

Sanctions have severed flights to the West, and the weakness of Russia's rouble currency has raised the cost of trips to other popular destinations, such as Turkey and Thailand.

Commercial airspace over Crimea has been closed since Russia launched what it calls its "special military operation" in Ukraine in February 2022, meaning visitors must arrive either by car or rail. Arduous journeys are often compounded by long queues at the bridge.

"We came by train: it took two days and four hours - very long this year because we were afraid to take the car. It's the fifth year we've come here on holiday," said Olga Morskova from Rybinsk, north of Moscow, some 1,370 km (850 miles) from Crimea.

Alexei Volkov, president of the National Union of Hospitality Industries, said in an interview that tourist numbers in Crimea were expected to be down 20-30% this year to between 6 and 6.5 million people.

"What's special about this year is the number of difficulties caused by the special military operation and new challenges for the hospitality industry and local residents when (emergency) situations have happened more often," he said.

"It is the most difficult season for the past nine years that we have been a part of Russia," he added, referring to the 2014 annexation which is regarded as illegal by most countries and which Ukraine has vowed to reverse.

Other Russian Black Sea resorts, at less risk of attacks, have seen increased demand. Volkov said hotel occupancy in Sochi was at 100%, and even the port city of Novorossiysk had seen a 6% uptick in visitors.

Fewer visitors to Crimea have meant more for Kaliningrad on the Baltic Sea and Dagestan in Russia's north Caucasus region, he said.

FATAL CROSSING

For one Russian couple, the choice of Crimea as a holiday destination proved fatal. The man and woman were both killed, and their 14-year-old daughter was wounded, when their car was caught in an explosion when they crossed the bridge on July 17, travelling at night to avoid traffic jams.

The head of Ukraine's SBU security service, Vasyl Maliuk, later claimed responsibility for the attack, and a previous one that caused severe damage to the bridge last October.

Last week Russia's defence ministry said its forces had destroyed 42 Ukraine-launched drones over Crimea in a single day. Its Russian-appointed governor said two more were downed on Monday.

Yet despite the proximity of the war, some Russians interviewed by Reuters were keen to play down the dangers, or dismiss them entirely.

"No, absolutely no fears. We went without thinking twice, not afraid of anything; everything is good," said Alexander Semashko from Stavropol in southern Russia.

"The goal of our trip is, of course, to have a rest, and support Russian tour operators, hoteliers, and Russian tourism, no doubt."

Sergei Lenkov, from Vologda north of Moscow, said he had confidence in Russia's air defence systems.

"There are no risks really. The sky is protected. So there isn't anything to get upset about," he said.

(Reporting by Reuters; Writing by Mark Trevelyan and Alexander Marrow; Editing by Gareth Jones and Sharon Singleton)
Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi shakes hands with Sudan's army chief, General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan who has left Sudan for the first time since the start of the conflict with the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces, and his delegations at the Egypt

By Nafisa Eltahir and Khalid Abdelaziz

(Reuters) -Sudanese military ruler General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan met his Egyptian counterpart on Tuesday in his first trip abroad since the April outbreak of war in Sudan, a day after rejecting calls for fresh negotiations.

The two discussed President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi's offer to mediate the conflict during a short meeting in the coastal city of El Alamein, an initiative Burhan said he welcomed, according to an Egyptian presidency statement.

On Monday, Burhan said the regular army he leads would vanquish the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and never sign a deal with them, dashing new hopes of talks to end a war that has plunged Sudan into overlapping humanitarian crises.

The visit represents the first time Burhan has left Sudan since the April 15 start of the conflict, which broke out amid discord over plans to integrate their troops into a single force as part of a transition to democracy.

Burhan is also expected to visit Saudi Arabia, which along with the United States had held meetings with the two sides that yielded ceasefire pacts that were all violated in short order.

In brief comments from El Alamein, Burhan said he wanted to end the war, but did not mention the possibility of talks.

"We ask the world to take an objective and correct view of this war. This war was started by a group that wanted to take over power, and in the process it has committed every crime that could come to mind," Burhan said.

The RSF has been accused of looting homes and raping dozens of women, according to activists and victims, and of ethnic warfare that has driven out hundreds of thousands of residents of El Geneina in West Darfur.

The RSF has denied the accusations but said that any of its fighters found involved in abuses would be brought to justice.

Two Egyptian security sources said that while the RSF had also said it welcomed the Egyptian initiative, which includes a call for a months-long ceasefire, it had appeared reluctant to take any further steps.

"The PR advantage is with Burhan," said a Western diplomat, adding that although Western nations see both sides of the conflict as belligerents, Burhan's appearances outside Khartoum would shore up his status.

Both the regular army and RSF have been accused of fighting in residential areas and indiscriminately firing heavy weapons, resulting in hundreds of civilians killed in the capital and other major cities. They both deny the allegations, accusing each other of targeting civilians.

In Nyala, capital of South Darfur and one of Sudan's most populous cities, fighting has cut off phone networks, electricity and humanitarian aid for weeks, with tens of thousands of residents trapped.

In one incident documented by medical aid agency MSF and local residents, about two dozen people, including multiple members of several families, died when caught in crossfire while hiding under a bridge on Aug. 23.

(Reporting by Khalid Abdelaziz in Dubai and Nafisa Eltahir and Mohamed Waly in Cairo; additional reporting by Maggie Michael; writing by Clauda Tanios and Nafisa Eltahir; editing by Jacqueline Wong, Andrew Heavens and Mark Heinrich)
By Nandita Bose and Kanishka Singh

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The United States on Tuesday announced a new package of military assistance to support Ukraine that includes additional air defense and artillery munitions, mine clearing equipment and medical vehicles.

The latest package includes additional mine clearing equipment, missiles for air defense, ammunition for artillery and HIMAR (High Mobility Artillery Rocket) systems, and over three million rounds of small-arms ammunition, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said in a statement.

"The United States and our allies and partners will stand united with Ukraine, for as long as it takes," Blinken said.

The equipment is funded through money previously approved by Congress.

More than $43 billion in U.S. military aid has been provided to Ukraine since Russia's invasion began in February 2022. President Joe Biden earlier this month asked Congress to approve an additional $24 billion in assistance.

Both Democrats and Republicans in Congress have backed Ukraine aid, but some far-right Republicans - especially those allied with former President Donald Trump - want to pare back assistance.

Ukrainian troops began a counteroffensive in the east and south in early June but have made slow progress through Russian minefields and trenches blocking their southern push.

(Reporting by Nandita Bose and Kanishka Singh in Washington; Editing by Andy Sullivan)
UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

FORM 6-K

REPORT OF FOREIGN PRIVATE ISSUER

PURSUANT TO SECTION 13A-16 OR 15D-16

UNDER THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the month of August 2023

Commission File Number: 001-41072

Iris Energy Limited

(Translation of registrants name into English)





Level 12, 44 Market Street

Sydney, NSW 2000 Australia

+61 2 7906 8301

(Address of principal executive office)

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant files or will file annual reports under cover of Form 20-F or Form 40-F.

Form 20-F  Form 40-F 

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is submitting the Form 6-K in paper as permitted by Regulation S-T Rule 101(b)(1): 

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is submitting the Form 6-K in paper as permitted by Regulation S-T Rule 101(b)(7): 





EXPLANATORY NOTE

Iris Energy Purchases NVIDIA H100 GPUs to Target Generative AI

On August 29, 2023, Iris Energy Limited (the Company) announced the purchase of NVIDIAs latest-generation artificial intelligence (AI) H100 GPUs.

The initial purchase of 248 NVIDIA H100 GPUs for ~US$10 million1 is expected to be delivered in the coming months and will allow the Company to:



 Further assess the appropriateness of its next-generation data centers for servicing adjacent computing markets such as generative AI2



 Demonstrate capability to prospective customers

A copy of the Companys press release providing the update is furnished hereto as Exhibit 99.1.

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

This Report on Form 6-K includes forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements generally relate to future events or Iris Energys future financial or operating performance. For example, forward-looking statements include but are not limited to potential exposure with respect to the legal proceedings relating to the Companys limited recourse equipment financing. In some cases, you can identify forward-looking statements by terminology such as anticipate, believe, may, can, should, could, might, plan, possible, project, strive, budget, forecast, expect, intend, target, will, estimate, predict, potential, continue, scheduled or the negatives of these terms or variations of them or similar terminology, but the absence of these words does not mean that statement is not forward-looking. Such forward-looking statements are subject to risks, uncertainties, and other factors which could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. In addition, any statements or information that refer to expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, performance or other characterizations of future events or circumstances, including any underlying assumptions, are forward-looking.

These forward-looking statements are based on managements current expectations and beliefs. These statements are neither promises nor guarantees, but involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other important factors that may cause Iris Energys actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements, including, but not limited to: Iris Energys limited operating history with operating losses; electricity outage, limitation or availability of electricity supply or increase in electricity costs, as well as limitations on the availability of electrical supply due to restrictions imposed by governmental authorities or otherwise, particularly as it relates to Bitcoin mining and/or high-performance computing (HPC) solutions; long term outage or limitation of the internet connection at Iris Energys sites; any critical failure of key electrical or data center equipment; serial defects or underperformance with respect to Iris Energys equipment; failure of suppliers to perform under the equipment supply contracts which may delay Iris Energys expansion plans and implementation of its strategy to expand into HPC solutions; supply chain and logistics issues for Iris Energy or Iris Energys suppliers; cancellation or withdrawal of required operating and other permits and licenses; customary risks in developing greenfield and brownfield infrastructure projects; Iris Energys evolving business model and strategy, including its ability to continue to develop its existing data center sites and to increase its diversification into the market for HPC solutions; Iris Energys limited experience with respect to new markets it may seek to enter, including the market for HPC solutions; expectations with respect to the profitability, viability, operability, security, popularity and public perceptions of any HPC solutions that Iris Energy may offer; Iris Energys ability to manage counterparty risk (including credit risk) associated with potential customers and other counterparties; Iris Energys ability to successfully manage its growth; Iris Energys ability to raise additional financing (whether because of the conditions of the markets, Iris Energys financial condition or otherwise) on a timely basis, or at all, which could adversely impact the Companys ability to meet its capital needs and growth plans; the outcome of the legal and bankruptcy proceedings relating to Iris Energys limited recourse equipment financing, including the amount of any potential damages, settlement payments or liability that may be incurred by the Iris Energy, any of which could be higher than anticipated; the risk that legal and bankruptcy proceedings result in significant legal and other costs and damage to Iris Energys reputation, and distract managements attention; the terms of any additional financing which could be less favorable or require Iris Energy to comply with more onerous covenants or restrictions, any of which could restrict its business operations and adversely impact its financial condition, cash flows and results of operations; competition; Bitcoin prices, global hashrate and the market value of Bitcoin miners, any of which could adversely impact its financial condition, cash flows and results of operations, as well as its ability to raise additional financing; market demand for HPC solutions and Iris Energys ability to secure customers on commercially reasonable terms or at all, and ability to manage and maintain customer relationships, risks related to public health crises and pandemics including those of COVID-19; changes in regulation of digital assets and/or the HPC industry; and other important factors discussed under the caption Risk Factors in Iris Energys annual report on Form 20-F filed with the SEC on September 13, 2022, and the Companys report on Form 6-K filed with the SEC on February 15, 2023, as such factors may be updated from time to time in its other filings with the SEC, accessible on the SECs website at www.sec.gov and the Investor Relations section of Iris Energys website at https://investors.irisenergy.co.





1 Excludes certain components, e.g. storage and certain front-end networking components.

2 No material modifications currently expected.





These and other important factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those indicated by the forward-looking statements made in this Report on Form 6-K. Any forward-looking statement that Iris Energy makes in this Report on Form 6-K speaks only as of the date of such statement. Except as required by law, Iris Energy disclaims any obligation to update or revise, or to publicly announce any update or revision to, any of the forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE

This Report on Form 6-K (other than the information contained in the press release furnished as Exhibit 99.1 to this Report on Form 6-K) shall be deemed to be incorporated by reference into the registration statements on Form S-8 (File Nos. 333-261320, 333-265949, 333-269201 and 333-273071) of Iris Energy Limited and to be a part thereof from the date on which this report is filed to the extent not superseded by documents or reports subsequently filed or furnished.

The information contained in the press release furnished as Exhibit 99.1 to this Report on Form 6-K shall not be deemed filed for the purposes of Section 18 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the Exchange Act), or otherwise subject to the liabilities of that section, nor shall it be deemed incorporated by reference into any of the Companys filings under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or the Exchange Act, whether made before or after the date hereof, except as shall be expressly set forth by specific reference in any such filing.

EXHIBIT INDEX

Exhibit No. Description 99.1 Press Release of Iris Energy Limited, dated August 29, 2023





SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned hereunto duly authorized.

Iris Energy Limited Date: August 29, 2023 By: /s/ Daniel Roberts Daniel Roberts Co-Chief Executive Officer and Director








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UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

FORM 8-K

CURRENT REPORT

Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the

Securities Exchange Act of 1934

Date of Report (Date of earliest event reported):

Mallinckrodt plc

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

Ireland 001-35803 98-1088325 (State or other jurisdiction

of incorporation) (Commission

File Number) (IRS Employer

Identification No.)

College Business & Technology Park , Cruiserath ,

Blanchardstown , Dublin 15 , Ireland

(Address of principal executive offices) (Zip Code)

Registrants telephone number, including area code: + 353 1 696 0000

Check the appropriate box below if the Form 8-K filing is intended to simultaneously satisfy the filing obligation of the registrant under any of the following provisions:

 Written communications pursuant to Rule 425 under the Securities Act (17 CFR 230.425)  Soliciting material pursuant to Rule 14a-12 under the Exchange Act (17 CFR 240.14a-12)  Pre-commencement communications pursuant to Rule 14d-2(b) under the Exchange Act (17 CFR 240.14d-2(b))  Pre-commencement communications pursuant to Rule 13e-4(c) under the Exchange Act (17 CFR 240.13e-4(c))

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

(Title of each class) (Trading Symbol(s)) (Name of each exchange on which

registered) Ordinary shares, par value $0.01 per share MNK NYSE American LLC

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is an emerging growth company as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act of 1933 (230.405 of this chapter) or Rule 12b-2 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (240.12b-2 of this chapter).

Emerging growth company 

If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. 

Item 3.01. Notice of Delisting or Failure to Satisfy a Continued Listing Rule or Standard; Transfer of Listing.

On August 28, 2023, Mallinckrodt plc (the Company) was notified by the staff of NYSE Regulation that NYSE Regulation has determined to commence proceedings to delist the ordinary shares, par value $0.01 per share, of the Company from the NYSE American LLC (NYSE American) and that trading in the Companys ordinary shares will be suspended immediately.

NYSE Regulation advised that it has determined that the Company is no longer suitable for listing and will commence delisting proceedings pursuant to Section 1003(c)(iii) of the NYSE American Company Guide in light of the Companys disclosure on August 28, 2023 that the Company and certain of its subsidiaries voluntarily initiated proceedings (Chapter 11 Cases) under chapter 11 of title 11 of the United States Code (Bankruptcy Code) in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the District of Delaware (Bankruptcy Court). NYSE Regulation noted that the Companys Restructuring Support Agreement, entered into on August 23, 2023, provides for the cancellation of the Companys ordinary shares for no consideration.

Important information about the Chapter 11 Cases, including court filings and other information, are available on a separate website administrated by the Companys claims agent, Kroll, at https://restructuring.ra.kroll.com/mallinckrodt2023. Such information may be filed with the Bankruptcy Court without the filing of an accompanying Current Report on Form 8-K. This website contains third-party content and is provided for convenience only. The documents and other information available on this website are not incorporated by reference into, and do not constitute a part of, this Current Report on Form 8-K.

SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned hereunto duly authorized.

MALLINCKRODT PLC By: /s/ Mark Tyndall Mark Tyndall Executive Vice President , Chief Legal Officer & Corporate Secretary Date: August 29, 2023

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Paul Hudson, an archaeologist at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, N.Y., on Aug. 28, 2023, peers into a time capsule from 1828 that was discovered a few months ago at the school. (U.S. Military Academy at West Point/YouTube)

Dozens of people at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, N.Y., were surprised Monday when officials opened what was thought to be a nearly 200-year-old time capsule and found nothing inside except a layer of dirt.

We are not certain if its soil or mud or dust, Paul Hudson, a West Point archaeologist, said in the moments after removing the lid from the box, which is about 1 cubic foot in size. It may not be anything.

If anything was placed in the box when it was buried in 1828 in the base of a Thaddeus Kosciuszko monument, no part of it was recognizable when the lid was pried off during the unveiling Monday. Kosciuszko was a Polish-born military engineer who fought in the Revolutionary War and engineered fortifications at West Point in the late 18th century.

We dont want to think that they went to all the trouble to put a box in the monument and not put anything in it, Hudson said. We will screen [all the silt] through a fine mesh screen to see if we can find any remains in it and determine what, if anything, was in here.

Potentially, it was something small and organic that may have come apart over time, but we are just not certain, he added.

About the only thing that the team did find during the box-opening was a stamp on the lid that read, E.W. Bank, New York.

The box was discovered a few months ago when renovations were being done to the 8-foot-tall bronze Kosciuszko monument. Hudson said the box was previously X-rayed, but the scan was inconclusive because the container is made of lead  a metal thats often too dense for X-rays to penetrate.

Academy officials determined the capsule was placed in the base of the Kosciuszko monument by cadets in 1828, 26 years after the academys founding, the academy said Aug. 15 when it announced the discovery.

Mondays ceremony included a panel of scientists and historians and an audience of observers who gathered inside the Robinson Auditorium on the West Point campus to see what might be in the box.

Lt. Gen. Steve Gilland, the academys superintendent, said before the boxs opening: I guarantee you, its going to be better than Geraldo.

Gillands comment was a reference to an infamous live-television moment in 1986 when journalist Geraldo Rivera cracked open a sealed vault in Chicago once owned by gangster Al Capone. When opened, the vault was empty.
The new entrance sign at Fort Cavazos, Texas. Base officials acknowledged last week the deaths of three soldiers, stating all initial indicators point to these tragedies being suicides. (U.S. Army)

An organization that led the passage of a mental health bill to help prevent military suicides is accusing the Army of failing to implement the legislation and stonewalling information about a recent rash of suicides at Fort Cavazos in Texas.

The Brandon Caserta Foundation, led by the parents of a Navy sailor who died by suicide in 2018, said the Army has refused to be open and transparent about suicides among its ranks, including the deaths of three soldiers this month at the base formerly known as Fort Hood.

The Army public relations always says, One suicide is too many. There were three in two weeks, and you are silent, Teri Caserta, president of the foundation, said in a statement specifically addressing Army Secretary Christine Wormuth and Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin. Not having the Brandon Act implemented is completely irresponsible. These deaths are on you both.

President Joe Biden signed the Brandon Act into law in 2021, allowing service members to confidentially and quickly request a mental health evaluation outside the chain of command. The law aims to remove the stigma around seeking help and is named after Brandon Caserta, a 21-year-old naval squadron flight electrician who died by suicide at Naval Station Norfolk, Va., after years of alleged bullying.

The Defense Department in May announced a two-step process for implementing the Brandon Act. The first phase tasked military departments with establishing procedures for implementing the policy within 45 days for active-duty service members while phase two will establish procedures for all other service members.

Teri and Patrick Caserta, Brandon Casertas parents and co-authors of the legislation, said only the Army has not complied with the law.

Petty Officer 3rd Class Brandon Caserta, 21, died by suicide June 25, 2018, at Naval Station Norfolk, Va. (Defense Department)

Teri and I have spent the last five years writing and lobbying for the Brandon Act. Nothing has changed with the Army. The Navy, Marine, and Air Force secretaries have met with us, and the Army continuously hides, Patrick Caserta said. The Army is a disaster when it comes to their reputation, and they wonder why it is so hard to recruit.

Bryce Dubee, a spokesman for the Army, said Tuesday that the service is working deliberately to finalize a new policy that will comply with the Brandon Act.

The Army's greatest strength is our people, and we are committed to their well-being, Dubee said. As we address the complex causes of suicide and other harmful behaviors, we will continue to encourage soldiers to seek mental health treatment as a sign of strength and resilience.

The Army is expected to miss its recruiting goal by 10,000 this year and as the largest force in the U.S. military, has the highest suicide rate of the service branches.

There were 135 suicides among active-duty soldiers last year, a decrease compared to 175 suicides per year in 2021 and 2020, according to the Defense Suicide Prevention Office. Almost 50 soldiers have died by suicide in the first three months of 2023 compared to 37 soldiers in the first three months of 2022.

The Casertas are demanding to meet with Wormuth at Fort Cavazos, the site of the latest spate of suicides.

We either go to Fort Cavazos and meet you, or we go to Capitol Hill to brief them on your behavior and refusal to implement and obey the Brandon Act, which is the law of the land, Patrick Caserta said.

Dubee, the Army spokesman, said Wormuth would be happy to meet with the Brandon Caserta Foundation.

"Secretary Wormuth deeply respects the Caserta familys commitment to improving service members access to mental health resources," he said.

Fort Cavazos acknowledged last week the deaths of three soldiers, stating all initial indicators point to these tragedies being suicides. An official said the base will not comment further on the details of the cases until an investigation is completed.

We urge everyone to respect the privacy and dignity of the families and friends of the deceased during this difficult time, said Lt. Col. Tania Donovan, the public affairs director for III Armored Corps, which is headquartered at Fort Cavazos.

The base held a Call-to-Action day on Aug. 16 in response to the suicides to give soldiers and leaders time to discuss mental health and suicide prevention. The base, Americas largest active-duty armored military post, has also stepped up efforts to familiarize soldiers with mental health resources.

The Casertas said the lack of information about the deaths at Fort Cavazos and the Army's failure to implement the Brandon Act exposed the service's shortcomings in combating suicides.

Not implementing The Brandon Act shows you are not serious about suicides and failing your soldiers, Patrick Caserta said. The Army needs to be transparent to their soldiers, the citizens of the United States, and above all, the Army needs to follow the law.
The 5th Judicial Circuit courthouse at Rose Barracks in Vilseck, Germany, on Aug. 29, 2023. A noncommissioned officer at Vilseck has been charged with murder in the March 2022 death of his 5-month-old son. (Michael Slavin/Stars and Stripes)

VILSECK, Germany  An Army noncommissioned officer will be tried by the military on a murder charge over the death of his infant son at home more than a year ago, U.S. officials said.

The court-martial of the 27-year-old soldier, whose name was not released, is expected to occur in the next six to 12 months at Rose Barracks in Vilseck, but the case hasnt been put on the court docket yet, 7th Army Training Command spokeswoman Lacey Justinger said Friday in response to questions from Stars and Stripes.

The soldier is charged with one specification of murder and three specifications of assault, Justinger said.

In March 2022, the 5-month-old boy was taken to a German clinic in Weiden with injuries that included blunt force trauma to the head, a skull fracture and brain hemorrhaging. Efforts to revive the child were unsuccessful, according to Oberpfalz TV news.

Both the soldier and his wife, a Kyrgyz and German national, were arrested by U.S. military police, Oberpfalz police told Stars and Stripes on Monday. Police did not specify the date of the arrest.

Prosecutors in the state of Bavaria accused the woman, who was the childs mother, of failing to prevent the prolonged abuse, Amberg attorney Joerg Jendricke, who represented the woman at trial, said Monday.

In March, a year after the boys death, the 29-year-old woman was convicted in German court of negligent manslaughter by omission. She received a suspended sentence of one-and-a-half years of probation, Ambergs public prosecutors office said Tuesday.

According to testimony in the womans trial, the soldier inflicted severe abuse on the baby at least three times in the couples home in the Amberg-Sulzbach district, German news reports said.

Jendricke said the woman, who was not identified in accordance with German privacy laws, has been approached by U.S. officials about testifying against her husband.

U.S. Army V Corps confirmed Tuesday that the soldier is assigned to the 2nd Cavalry Regiment but said it was unable to provide further details.

The Army is prosecuting the soldier because Germany does not have jurisdiction in his case, Joachim Diesch, the Amberg chief public prosecutor, said Tuesday.

The NATO Status of Forces Agreement applies, according to which there was exclusive American jurisdiction because the infant killed was also an American citizen, Diesch said.

Murder carries a minimum sentence of life in prison with the possibility of parole under the Uniform Code of Military Justice.
Iran has summoned a Swiss diplomat over the apparent U.S. seizure of Iranian crude oil from a ship that sat for months off Texas, an official said Monday, as the oil now appeared to be moored in Houston.

The remarks by Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Nasser Kanaani mark the latest twist in the saga of the oil once aboard the tanker Suez Rajan, which had become mired in the wider tensions between the U.S. and the Islamic Republic. That's even as Tehran and Washington work toward a trade of billions of dollars in frozen Iranian assets in South Korea for the release of five Iranian Americans held in Tehran.

Iran has been trying to evade sanctions and continue selling its oil abroad, while the U.S. and its allies have been seizing cargoes since 2019 after the country's nuclear deal allowing the trade collapsed.

Speaking to journalists Monday, Kanaani said Tehran had summoned the charge d'affaires of the Swiss Embassy in Iran to express a "strong objection" over the U.S seizing the oil. Switzerland has looked out for America's interests in Iran since the 1979 U.S. Embassy hostage crisis.

Kanaani's comments also acknowledged the oil was Iranian. "The subject of the seizure of an Iranian oil consignment by the U.S.... is a completely unproductive action," Kanaani said. He said the U.S. government was on the one hand expressing interest in direct talks to pave the way for a renewed nuclear deal and on the other was imposing new sanctions and seizing oil.

The U.S. State Department did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
Seventh Fleet's flagship, the USS Blue Ridge, is docked at Yokosuka Naval Base, Japan, Tuesday, Aug. 29, 2023. (Jennessa Davey/Stars and Stripes)

YOKOSUKA NAVAL BASE, Japan  Marine commands from the U.S. and South Korea recently met for the first time aboard the 7th Fleets flagship to coordinate drills taking place more than 700 miles away.

Officers from the III Marine Expeditionary Force joined their South Korean counterparts aboard the USS Blue Ridge at Yokosuka on Aug. 24 to form a combined command for the second phase of Ulchi Freedom Shield, according to III MEF spokesman Lt. Col. Josh Diddams.

The occasion marked the first time that U.S. and South Korean marines have operated from the ship during the exercise, Diddams told Stars and Stripes by email Tuesday. Seventh Fleet staff also participated, with a specific focus on the maritime component of the exercise, he said.

Ulchi Freedom Shield kicked off Aug. 21 and is scheduled to conclude Thursday. The semiannual exercise consists of about 30 separate drills. U.S. Forces Korea and South Koreas Ministry of National Defense describe it as routine, defensive training; South Korean Joint Chiefs of Staff spokesman Col. Lee Sung-jun also described it as a means to counter the advancing threats from North Korea.

The marines plan to operate from the Blue Ridge  the ship was in port at Yokosuka on Tuesday  as an amphibious command-and-control headquarters to coordinate the exercise, despite being approximately 720 miles away from the Korean Peninsula.

The Blue Ridge, the oldest deployed warship in the Navy, is purpose-built for such activities. While it typically serves as an emissary and platform for humanitarian efforts in the region during peacetime, its also equipped with a communication suite that allows it to operate as a command hub for fleetwide operations.

Operating from the ship allows us to simulate command and control from the sea  which comes with unique challenges and opportunities, Diddams wrote in his email. These realistic conditions help to enhance our capability to respond and defend against any threat to [South Korea].

The Navy describes the Blue Ridge as the most capable command ship ever built, representing the accumulated knowledge of four decades of Navy experience, according to the U.S. Naval Surface Force Pacific website.

The ship recently returned to Yokosuka after a 40-day patrol that included stops in Singapore, Indonesia, Brunei and the Philippines. Its Aug. 17 return marked the completion of the ships first full patrol since 2019.

Stars and Stripes reporter David Choi contributed to this report.
An Iraqi, left, and a U.S. officer help two Iraqi soldiers with their marksmanship. The drill teaches soldiers how to hit their targets while moving. The U.S. Army often looks to Iraqi officers and even platoon leaders to help teach the soldiers, who often have only a primary education and no formal military experience. (Teri Weaver/Stars and Stripes)

This article first appeared in the Stars and Stripes Mideast edition, June 5, 2005. It is republished unedited in its original form.

CAMP INDEPENDENCE, Iraq  Lt. Michael Ranado had reservations when he found out he was going to be training Iraqi men to become soldiers.

Ranado, a member of the 6th Battalion of the 8th Cavalry, had arrived in Iraq in February, and hed spent the first few months patrolling Iraqi streets as so many other soldiers do here.

Despite the mix of dangerous attacks and nerve-wracking boredom while on patrol, Ranado was reluctant to change.

Thats what we had been doing, the 25-year-old from Corinth, N.Y., said of his platoon. Thats what we like doing. We had a battle rhythm going.

After nearly six weeks of working with the Iraqis, hes changed his mind, he said Wednesday.

This is a more important mission right now, he said, watching Iraqi officers drill Iraqi soldiers in a field movement exercise at Baghdads Camp Independence.

An Iraqi soldier simulates giving cover while another group of soldiers advances during a drill at Camp Independence. The U.S. soldiers use the camp to train Iraqi soldiers, who live there during weekdays but go home on the weekends. Most of the Iraqis use cabs or buses to get home, usually a two to three hour ride, the U.S. soldiers said. (Teri Weaver/Stars and Stripes)

Many American officers and soldiers here are faced with the same task as Ranado: building a self-sufficient Iraqi army. The U.S. military is working with Iraqi officers with experience to teach, company by company, the basics of soldiering and warfare.

While the Iraqis are learning to be soldiers, the U.S. soldiers are learning to be better teachers.

Theyve learned it works best to teach an Iraqi officer or platoon leader the techniques, then let him pass the information onto his soldiers.

Theyve learned that the Iraqis who served in the military before the war know many outdated, Cold War tactics, which must be replaced.

Theyve also learned what its like to talk to erstwhile enemies after the shooting stops.

Its fun to talk tactics with someone from the [former] enemy, Ranado said. Its not something you often get to do.

The Americans also understand that some of the lessons are as much cultural as they are militaristic.

A U.S. soldier works with an Iraqi soldier on marksmanship at Camp Indepedence, Iraq. The Iraqi soldiers have spent more than a month at Independence, learning the basics of being a soldier. In a few weeks, they will go out on their first patrol. (Teri Weaver/Stars and Stripes)

The Iraqi soldiers were slow to accept the concept of noncommissioned officers, the term the U.S. military applies to sergeants who help officers command. In the U.S. Army, an NCO might take the lead in a part of a mission, be privy to the missions priorities and even assume command if higher-ranking officers on the field are killed, Ranado said.

Taking orders from a fellow soldier takes some getting used to, Ranado said. In the former Iraqi military, only the officers were trusted to give directions, he said.

The learning curve for the Iraqis is steep, Americans said.

Theyre being asked to learn a lot fast, said Lt. Karl Hoempler, 28, of Richmond Hill, Ga., whos assigned to Headquarters and Headquarters Company of the 464th Armor Battalion. Its like theyre drinking through a fire hose.

On Wednesday, Hoempler watched as Iraqi soldiers practiced their marksmanship while moving. The soldiers had been training for a little more than a month, and that week they had begun going out on patrols in Baghdad, he said.

Iraqi soldiers rest during a "bounding" exercise at Camp Independence. The exercise teaches the soldiers how to advance or retreat in groups of two, with one group protecting the other with gunfire while moving. No ammunition was used in the drill, and one soldier uses a wooden stick in place of a rifle. (Teri Weaver/Stars and Stripes) An Iraqi officer leads a training exercise at Camp Independence the morning of June 1, 2005. The drill teaches soldiers how to move during a gunfire attack. The U.S. soldiers leading the training often teach an Iraqi officer or platoon leader a drill, then allow him to teach his own soldiers. (Teri Weaver/Stars and Stripes)

Capt. Lee McKnight, 31, of Sumter, S.C., is in charge of training Iraqi Company A within the same battalion. He said the Iraqi soldiers are getting more time on the shooting range than the average U.S. soldier in training.

Later Wednesday, McKnight took a platoon of his Iraqi soldiers out on a patrol. I shadow them, he said. I only intervene if theres a safety issue.

Unlike Ranado, McKnight and Hoempler will likely spend their entire year in Iraq training soldiers.

Im excited about it, McKnight said. They want to do it. Theyre eager. Its their homeland.

McKnight, like many other American servicemembers, is excited for another reason. I believe its the only way to get U.S. soldiers out of here, he said.

Looking for Stars and Stripes coverage of the Iraq War? Subscribe to Stars and Stripes historic newspaper archive! We have digitized our 1948-1999 European and Pacific editions, as well as several of our WWII editions and made them available online through https://starsandstripes.newspaperarchive.com/
(Teri Weaver/Stars and Stripes)

Iraq, June 1, 2005: Iraqi soldiers practice marching in front of an unfinished mosque at Camp Independence in Baghdad. The mosque was being built before the war began and was meant to be the largest in the world, according to U.S. officers. The U.S. Army trained Iraqi soldiers at Independence. Read more about the training here.
The Iranian flag. (Scott Eells/Bloomberg)

Most of the time Maj. Gen. Hossein Salami, the head of Irans Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, is known for his aggrandized statements or bravado regarding Tehrans achievements and prowess. But recently he shared a public statement that was rather revealing. While addressing the commanders of paramilitary Basij forces, he explicitly expressed concern about the possibility of resurgent unrest around the anniversary of the incident that sparked a nationwide, anti-government uprising last year.

On Sept. 16, morality police in Tehran violently apprehended Mahsa Amini. Eyewitnesses reported that the 22-year-old was beaten about the head and soon fell unconscious, leading to her death in a hospital three days later. Her funeral was followed by mass protests that quickly grew to explicit calls for regime change.

Some of the uprisings defining slogans were attributed to the activity of a network of resistance units that has been growing throughout the Islamic Republic, under the banner of the leading pro-democracy opposition group, the Peoples Mojahedin Organization of Iran. The role of the PMOI, or MEK, has gradually attracted more public attention from regime authorities, and was even acknowledged last week by the speaker of the Iranian parliament, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, who is also a former commander in the ultra-hardline IRGC.

Of course, he and his colleagues have generally sought to downplay the significance of the opposition, frequently describing the nationwide uprising as a collection of riots that did not truly represent popular sentiment. But as is evident from the proliferation of the resistance units, it is increasingly clear that the organized opposition movement enjoys broad support among the Iranian people. This is what elevated the latest uprising into the greatest challenge to the theocratic dictatorship since its inception in the wake of the 1979 revolution.

And some in Washington are taking note. A resolution introduced to the U.S. House of Representatives, with 36 co-sponsors from both political parties last week, specified that the protests, which have been ongoing since September, are rooted in the more than four decades of organized resistance against the Iranian dictatorship. It also credited the largely women-led protests with enduring torture, sexual and gender-based violence, and death, thereby persisting to the very brink of their one-year anniversary.

The Iranian authorities are finding it increasingly difficult to control the narrative of the uprising. So, to compensate, Tehran has resorted to a campaign of violent repression and public intimidation that has seen more than 400 Iranian prisoners executed in just the first seven months of 2023.

As the United Nations Human Rights Council has established a commission of inquiry into the repression of dissent following Aminis killing, the House resolution urges the U.N. body to expand that inquiry to address a wider range of Irans unresolved human rights abuses and crimes against humanity, including its massacre of possibly as many as 30,000 political prisoners, most of them MEK members, in the summer of 1988. Current Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi played a key role in the 1988 massacre as deputy prosecutor for Tehran.

Until two years ago, no one had ever been held accountable for the killings, but new ground was finally broken on this issue when Sweden used the principle of universal jurisdiction to prosecute a former Iranian prison official, Hamid Nouri, who had helped to implement some of the capital sentences handed down by Raisis death commission.

The Iranian officials are currently trying to stretch and manipulate the concept of universal jurisdiction, having recently announced indictments for 104 officials and affiliates of the MEK who do not reside in Iran and who are generally long-time residents of Western nations.

Alarmingly, on June 20, the Albanian police raided a compound that has been maintained in the country for years, as a home to around 3,000 MEK activists.

Now, there is growing concern about that communitys safety and security, while Tehrans overall focus on expatriate activists raises similar concern about communities throughout the world.

The House Resolution on Iranian protests and crackdowns calls on the United States Government, in cooperation with our ally Albania, to ensure the full protection of the Iranian political refugees in Ashraf 3 in Albania and for them to benefit from all rights stipulated in the Geneva Convention 1951 and the European Convention on Human Rights, including the right to life, liberty, and security, and protection of property, as well as freedom of expression and assembly.

Similarly, Senate Foreign Relations Committee Chairman Robert Menendez used a recent hearing on State Department appointments to ask that the prospective assistant secretary of state for European and Eurasian Affairs commit to advocating for the fundamental rights and freedoms of the residents of Camp Ashraf.

Menendez added that this is important because if you seek refuge, you ultimately have to be in a position to know that refuge is secure. This is true under any circumstances but is especially important at a time when any denial of refuge to Iranian exiles poses such a clear threat to their lives.

It is incumbent upon the international community to protect the people inside Iran who are still fighting to overturn a repressive theocracy. But it should not allow the Iranian regimes tentacles reach beyond its borders and should guarantee safeguarding those who are beyond the regimes reach.

In line with the bipartisan House resolution, as the anniversary of the uprising is approaching, the U.S. government and all its major allies must take immediate action to fend off Tehrans growing attacks on human rights defenders, including offering explicit guarantees of inalienable rights to the residents of Ashraf 3 throughout the world.

Ted Poe represented Texas' 2nd Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives from 2005 to 2019, where he served on the Committee on Foreign Affairs and as chairman of the subcommittee on terrorism, nonproliferation and trade.
Homes and businesses in Lahaina on the Hawaiian island of Maui lie in ruins after the devastating wildfire. (Robert Gauthier, Los Angeles Times/TNS)

LAHAINA, Hawaii (Tribune News Service)  About 99% of the area devastated by that started Aug. 8 has been searched for human remains with only the waters and coastline left to be looked through.

Federal Emergency Management Agency search and rescue teams are demobilizing, and turning over all evidence gathered to the Maui Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Robert J. Fenton Jr., regional administrator for FEMA Region Nine, told reporters Monday.

Anthropologists with the FBI and the U.S. Department of Defense and mortuary specialists from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services are supporting the ongoing recovery efforts.

FBI agents, members of the bureau's evidence response team, forensic science experts and Maui police are working through a list of unaccounted-for people that most recently stood at 388.

"What's happening right now is really the investigative process, which is being led by the Maui Police Department, supported by the FBI," Fenton said. "As we investigate the unaccounted number and continue to do DNA testing to match those human remains, that number will come down."

Divers from the Maui Fire Department, Navy and Coast Guard continue to search the waters off Lahaina, including sunken vessels.

From land (the search) its done, said Maj. Gen. Kenneth Hara, the state adjutant general. They are still doing search and recovery in the bay. They did the bay first, checked the sunken vessels, and now theyre doing the coastline.

On Aug. 22, the FBI said it had collected 104 DNA samples.

As of Monday, MPD has had 112 official missing-person reports made.

Fifty seven of those reports remain open. Twenty four were closed, with the person having been located. Thirty one reports have been closed after family members were notified of those people's death, according to Maui police.

Twenty days after the 5.5-square-mile heart of Lahaina burned to the ground, killing at least 115 people, Maui firefighters were still working to extinguish three West Maui fires.

The Olinda fire is 85% contained and has burned an estimated 1,081 acres, according to a 2:32 p.m. news release from the county.

The Kula fire is 90% contained and has torched 202 acres, and the Lahaina fire is 90% contained, consuming about 2,170 acres.

On Monday the death toll remained at 115 as the county released the identities of two more victims. Lahaina residents Eugene Recolizado, 50, and Mark Kaminsky, 59, were identified by Maui police.

Gov. Josh Green spent Monday working on Maui, meeting with residents affected by the Aug. 8 wildfires in Kula and Lahaina.

During a meeting Monday with Upcountry residents and business owners at Kula Lodge, Green met with some of the 10 homeowners who lost everything.

Tom Liu, 82, who moved to Maui from North Carolina, lost his home and collection of paintings and artwork in the fire. He said he is "living proof" that the aloha spirit is at work supporting survivors.

"I'm gonna rebuild because I don't want to leave this," he said.

Green told the group that "our hearts are broken" for what happened to the Upcountry community and Lahaina.

"The number of people who passed is at 115. That number could fluctuate some depending on what we find," said Green. "It is also astounding to see when one person's house is damaged or to hear one story of a child ... who counts fire hydrants now."

Green detailed the government assistance and services available to fire survivors and those whose residents and businesses have been affected.

In response to a question from the audience about accessing services, Green promised the Upcountry group that he would personally ensure they remained in the loop with relief efforts as they evolved.

Megan Nakashima, president of Pukalani Superette in Makawao, asked Green whether he could pick up his phone and let people know that Kula needs all the water.

"There is a lot of people working right now, and they need help  real help. We've been crowdsourcing water. It's crazy," said Nakashima.

Hara told the group of Upcountry community members that three 400- gallon water trailers had been positioned Upcountry, and two more would be distributed by the county Department of Water Supply.

"A lot of water capabilities are moving in support of Kula," he said.

From Kula, Green went to Wharf Street in Lahaina to link up with U.S. Reps. Jill Tokuda and Ed Case, U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz and the chair of the U.S. House Committee on Natural Resources, Bruce Westerman, R- Ark.

Westerman was leading a bipartisan congressional delegation of nine House members Monday that toured the rubble on foot and in white vans driven by FEMA personnel.

Amid the backdrop of flame-scalded ships floating amid debris next to the burned-out harbormaster's office, Green pitched Westerman and the delegation on the health care, housing and other relief needs of Lahaina.

He pledged to "never be political" with Westerman and promised to be a resource. He urged the Republican lawmaker to "talk to me as a brother."

"I've never, ever, in my life seen anything like this," said Green, referencing the surrounding devastation. "It's shocking to our state. ... It's a small state. ... We know who we lost."

Westerman praised the FEMA response and thanked the federal workers and Navy, Coast Guard and county divers who could be seen tying up their boat after a harbor search.

He said the delegation in Lahaina wanted to be armed with the best information to help advocate for relief in Washington, D.C.

"Our heart goes out to you. This devastation, until you walk through and see it, you really don't get it," said Westerman, who said he spoke with House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, who is planning a trip to Lahaina. "It's a high priority. We want to be here to help."

Green ended his day in Kaanapali by visiting the shelter and family reunification center at the Hyatt Regency. Green, flanked by state staff, worked his way through the crowd of people, stopping to listen, talk story, answer questions and connect people with recovery resources.

He also met with medical staff, the Red Cross, volunteers and FEMA workers and staff supporting the shelter efforts.

The FBI's DNA collection point and agents with the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives, who are investigating the cause and origin of the fires, are also working out of the Hyatt.

Speaking to reporters after his visit, Green urged people to visit Maui while avoiding West Maui and affected areas where hazards remain.

"We want people travel to Maui and Hawaii. We encourage the world to travel here. ... That will help them recover," said Green. "We can't have a year go by without having people return."

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The guided-missile destroyer USS Benfold steams near Dutch Harbor, Alaska, Aug. 8, 2023. (Justin Stack/U.S. Navy)

SEOUL, South Korea  Navy destroyers from the United States, South Korea and Japan simulated their defense against a ballistic missile Tuesday in response to recent North Korean missile tests.

The USS Benfold, South Koreas Yulgok Yi I and Japans JS Haguro  all equipped with the Aegis Combat System  tracked a simulated North Korean ballistic missile in international waters south of Jeju Island, a South Korean territory, South Koreas Ministry of National Defense said in a news release Tuesday.

The drill was a response to advancing North Korean nuclear and missile threats, including the communist regimes recent failed attempts to put a military satellite into orbit atop a ballistic missile, the ministry added.

This exercise served as momentum to further improve our reaction posture and capabilities against North Korean missile threats, South Korean navy Capt. Kim Ki Young said in the release. We will further tighten [South Koreas] national security based on our militarys strong response system and trilateral cooperation in the future.

The Benfold carried out a seaborne missile-defense drill with the Yulgok Yi I and JS Atago in the Sea of Japan, or the East Sea, on April 17, four days after North Korea test-fired a solid-fuel intercontinental ballistic missile.

Separate military drills by U.S. and South Korean forces are underway throughout South Korea as part of the large-scale Ulchi Freedom Exercise. The 11-day exercise that kicked off Aug. 21 tests the allies' capabilities against North Korea's military with over 30 separate drills, according to the defense ministry.

Tuesdays maritime drill came five days after North Korea failed to put a satellite in orbit, its second attempt since May. The Norths state-run Korean Central News Agency reported the rockets third stage malfunctioned and that the regime would try again in October.

North Korea has fired 17 ballistic missiles in 12 separate days of testing so far this year. It last fired two short-range ballistic missiles from Pyongyang that each flew around 340 miles before landing in the Sea of Japan.

President Joe Biden, South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida agreed to enhance their countries military ties in the wake of the Norths continued missile tests.

During their Aug. 18 summit at Camp David, the presidential retreat in Maryland, the three leaders agreed to share real-time warning data on North Korean missiles by the end of 2023 and regularly hold trilateral military exercises to deter North Korea.

We are committed to pursuing enhanced ballistic missile defense cooperation to counter [North Koreas] nuclear and missile threats, the leaders said in a joint statement. We reaffirm that achieving a world without nuclear weapons is a common goal for the international community, and we continue to make every effort to ensure that nuclear weapons are never used again.

Following the summit, a KCNA report described Biden, Yoon and Kishida as a puppet group and accused them of destabilizing the Korean Peninsula.

Stars and Stripes reporter Yoo Kyong Chang contributed to this report.
Russia's Federal Security Service, the FSB, said on Monday that it planned to interrogate two U.S. diplomats after accusing them of directing a former employee of the U.S. Consulate in Vladivostok to gather information about Russia's war in Ukraine.

The former employee, Robert Shonov, is a Russian citizen who had worked at the consulate, in Russia's Far East, for more than 25 years. The FSB has charged Shonov with "cooperation on a confidential basis with a foreign state," a crime publishable by up to eight years in prison.

The FSB accused Shonov of working alongside the two U.S. diplomats at the U.S. Embassy in Moscow, whom it identified as Jeffrey Sillin and David Bernstein, since last September, "gathering information about the special military operation, mobilization processes in Russian regions, problems and the assessment of their influence on protest activities of the population in the run-up to the 2024 presidential election."

It was unclear if Sillin and Bernstein were still in the Russian capital or if the State Department would allow them to meet with Russian investigators. Russia is scheduled to hold presidential elections in March next year.

Shonov's detention was initially reported in May with few details. At the time, the State Department denounced Shonov's detention, saying he had been performing routine activities as a private contractor.

State Department spokesman Matthew Miller said in May that the arrest highlighted "the Russian Federation's blatant use of increasingly repressive laws against its own citizens."

On Monday the FSB published a video showing Shonov's arrest and subsequent interrogation, in which Shonov appeared to confess to collaborating with a foreign state.

"I was tasked with gathering negative information, look for discontent and reflect it in my reports," Shonov said in the video.

The consulate closed during the COVID-19 pandemic and in the wake of escalating tensions between Russia and the United States and tit-for-tat diplomatic expulsions, never reopened.

Shonov's arrest followed the detention in March of U.S. journalist Evan Gershkovich on espionage charges, which Gershkovich, his employer, the Wall Street Journal, and the White House all forcefully deny. Gershkovich has been jailed in Lefortovo prison in Moscow. Last week Gershkovich's pretrial detention was extended until Nov. 30  a move his legal team has since appealed.
Popular app Daangn Market has removed the "Market" part from its name to expand its services from a second-hand marketplace to catering to local and neighborhood businesses. It now offers a range of features such as advertising for local small businesses, part-time job ads and advertising of local events and lectures.

Founded in 2015, it rapidly grew as a second-hand trading app and is recognized as a domestic "unicorn" with a corporate value of over W3 trillion (US$1=W1,323). "The app has amassed 35 million members and 18 million monthly users, making it one of the most popular apps," CEO Hwang Do-yeon said. "We plan to introduce various neighborhood-based services beyond secondhand transactions."

The launch of advertising for local businesses in 2021 marked the first step in this direction. "While there are several portals and platforms to promote famous restaurants or franchises, the only way to advertise neighborhood eateries, beauty salons and gyms has been through flyers."

The app's advertising feature is unique in its ability to target local regular customers in the neighborhood. It also has features for small businesses to communicate with customers and to enable bookings for businesses like beauty and nail salons.

The advertising target can be precisely set for users within a radius of 300 m to 1.5 km. "The number of stores using the app for posting ads has exceeded 800,000 through word of mouth. Advertising revenue grew twice compared to 2021, and it is expected to grow by more than two times this year."

Customers also use the app for local community gatherings, evening classes, expert recommendations, and part-time job offers. "Nowadays, it's so popular that local people immediately post on the app when they lose their pets."

The "find a part-time job within 700 m" feature has become a job-seeking platform for local stores, thanks to shop owners urgently hiring staff for hall service or cleaning. The number of gyms, taekwondo and Pilates studios on the app increased by about 90 percent.
3M has tentatively agreed to pay more than $5.5 billion to resolve over 300,000 lawsuits claiming it sold the U.S. military defective combat earplugs, people familiar with the deal said.

The settlement would avert a potentially much larger liability that 3M sought to curb through a controversial bankruptcy case that ultimately collapsed. The sum is about half the roughly $10 billion some financial analysts predicted 3M could end up paying over allegations that the earplugs didn't adequately protect the hearing of service members.

Traders welcomed the resolution. 3M shares were up 5.8% at $104.66 at 9:45 a.m. in New York.

"Sounds like 3M negotiated a pretty good deal for itself, given this litigation has been weighing on them for the better part of a decade," said Carl Tobias, a University of Richmond law professor who teaches about product liability cases.

A 3M representative said the company doesn't comment on rumor or speculation.

Analysts at Barclays had estimated that the company's potential liability was about $8 billion. Bloomberg Intelligence calculated it could be as much as $9.5 billion. While the settlement was at the low end of BI's estimates, "it may accelerate negative rating activity as S&P and Moody's have not fully accounted for the legal overhangs," BI analysts Joel Levington and Michael Doto wrote. They added that 3M's pro-forma net leverage "could land between 3.3-4.2x  higher than raters' targets."

The accord would end a torrent of litigation facing the St. Paul, Minn., company even as it faces thousands of other lawsuits over PFAS "forever chemicals" likely to cost several times more than the earplug deal to resolve. 3M has lost 10 of 16 early trials over the earplugs so far, with over $250 million awarded to more than a dozen service members.

In the most recent trial, a Florida jury ordered the manufacturer in 2022 to pay U.S. Army veteran James Beal $77.5 million in damages over his hearing loss from the earplugs. Beal, who tested weapons over a four-year period starting in 2005, said he developed hearing loss and tinnitus, a buzzing or hissing sensation in the ears.

The hundreds of thousands of lawsuits have been consolidated in a multi-district litigation before a federal judge in Florida for pretrial information exchanges and test trials, according to federal court records. In the suits, current and former service members allege 3M knew its earplugs were too short to work effectively and that it failed to warn the U.S. government or users, or to take steps to fix the product.

Under the terms of the settlement, the maker of popular consumer products such as Scotch tape and Post-it notes would pay out the money over five years, said the people, who requested anonymity because they weren't authorized to speak publicly about the accord. They said 3M's board still must sign off on the deal.

3M had sought to limit its liability by having its Aearo Technologies unit seek Chapter 11 protection from creditors in 2021 to corral the cases. Critics including law professors and consumer advocates attacked the maneuver as an example of profitable companies using the process as a shield without filing for bankruptcy themselves.

In June a bankruptcy judge threw out Aearo's case, finding that 3M wasn't in the kind of financial trouble that warranted using the bankruptcy system to manage litigation. Aearo has appealed the ruling. A similar move by Johnson & Johnson to resolve cancer cases filed over its baby powder through bankruptcy was rejected this year.

As 3M's bankruptcy strategy languished, lawyers for the company and the service members pursued a settlement in mediation required by the judge overseeing the earplug litigation, U.S. District Judge Casey Rodgers. Rodgers, who served in the Army from 1985 through 1987, ordered 3M Chief Executive Officer Mike Roman in May to travel to Florida for negotiations.

According to the lawsuits, the earplugs were defective over a 12-year period starting in 2003. In 2012, there were 971,990 tinnitus claims lodged with the U.S. Veterans Administration, government records show. Experts estimate such claims are rising 15% annually.

The earplug accord isn't 3M's first. In 2018, after a whistleblower lawsuit, the company agreed to pay $9.1 million to settle civil allegations by the U.S. Justice Department that it failed to disclose defects it knew about to the military.

As for the forever-chemicals litigation, 3M has agreed to pay as much as $12.5 billion to clean up drinking water supplies across the U.S. that are tainted with the substances.

The earplugs case is In Re 3M Products Liability Litigation, 19-md-2885, U.S. District Court, Northern District of Florida (Pensacola).
Soldiers in Tallahassee, Fla., on Aug. 29, 2023, prepare boats for search and rescue missions after Hurricane Idalia strikes the west coast of Florida from the Gulf of Mexico. (Christian Wilson/U.S. Army)

Military and local officials across western Florida and into southern Georgia were preparing Tuesday for damaging wind and rains as Hurricane Idalia grew to a Category 1 hurricane and appeared poised to quickly strengthen ahead of landfall Wednesday.

Officials at MacDill Air Force Base shared a brief video Tuesday showing an abandoned flightline at the Florida installation, which lies just south of the projected path of Idalia.

The planes are gone. The people are gone. Everything is secured. MacDill is ready, base officials wrote on a Facebook post one day after MacDill commander Col. Adam Bingham ordered the evacuation of most nonessential military and civilian personnel at the base. The National Hurricane Center on Tuesday issued warnings that Idalia could reach Floridas Gulf Coast early Wednesday as a major Category 3 storm, boasting sustained winds beyond 111 mph.

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis said Tuesday that he had activated about 5,500 National Guard troops to help with storm preparations and to be staged for a quick respond once Idalia passes. The Florida Guard said troops were staging supplies and readying boats for search and rescue missions.

Hurricane Idalia could make landfall in the early morning hours Wednesday in Floridas rural Taylor County in the northern part of the states Big Bend region, the National Hurricane Center projected. It warned of storm impacts across most of Floridas west coast including life-threatening storm surge and hurricane conditions from Englewood, Fla., about 90 miles south of MacDill AFB, to Indian Pass, Fla., about 50 miles southeast of Panama City, Fla.

By the time we get to the end of tonight, youre going to see some nasty weather, DeSantis said during a news briefing. Be warned about that and do what you need to do right now to keep yourself and your family safe.

In Georgia, Gov. Brian Kemp also issued a state of emergency, as federal meteorologists expected Idalia to bring heavy rain and tropical storm-strength winds into southeast Georgia late Wednesday.

The Hurricane Center predicted Idalia to drop some 4 to 8 inches of rain across Floridas panhandle, southeastern Georgia and into eastern South and North Carolina from late Tuesday into Thursday. Areas near the storms landfall site in western Florida, including near MacDill AFB, could see up to 12 inches of rain, the center said.

While MacDill, home of U.S. Central Commands headquarters and U.S. Special Operations Command, chose to evacuate its fleet of KC-135 refueling jets and other aircraft, other Air Force bases in Georgia and Florida elected not to remove aircraft, as of Tuesday afternoon.

Tyndall Air Force Base to MacDills northwest near Panama City remained open Tuesday, but officials at the base warned its personnel to be prepared to evacuate if the storms projected path moved west. Tyndall, home to the Air Forces 325th Fighter Wing, suffered a catastrophic direct hit from Category 5 Hurricane Michael in October 2018, which caused some $5 billion in damages.

At Moody Air Force Base near Valdosta, Ga., officials said Tuesday that they had not yet decided to evacuate personnel or their aircraft, including A-10 attack jets and search-and-rescue helicopters.

Other Florida and Georgia military installations in Idalias projected path took precautions ahead of the storm. Naval Station Mayport near Jacksonville, Fla., sent its ships out to sea Tuesday, according to the Navy. Officials at nearby Naval Air Station Jacksonville and Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay in Georgia said they would close those bases Tuesday evening until Thursday to non-mission essential personnel.
Airmen load pallets of ammunition onto a C-17 Globemaster III bound for Ukraine during a security assistance mission at Dover Air Force Base, Del., in August 2022. (Cydney Lee/U.S. Air Force)

WASHINGTON  The United States is sending more military aid to Ukraine worth up to $250 million that ranges from air-defense munitions to mine-clearing equipment, the Pentagon announced Tuesday.

The military aid also includes 155mm and 105mm artillery rounds, additional ammunition for High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems, or HIMARS, and Hydra-70 rockets.

Artillery, missiles, ammunition for HIMARS, demining equipment  that's what our warriors need. Freedom needs protection, and this protection is growing strong, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy tweeted Tuesday.

Funding for the new aid comes from $6.2 billion that the Pentagon recently discovered due to an accounting error. Military officials uncovered the error in May and said it gave the Pentagon extra funds to ship weapons and equipment to Ukraine. The aid announced Tuesday is the second time that the Pentagon has dipped into those funds, following a $200 million package on Aug. 14. The aid comes during a counteroffensive by Ukraine troops against Russian forces in various parts of the countrys eastern region to recover occupied territory.

President Joe Biden on Aug. 10 requested Congress approve $24 billion in emergency funding for Ukraine as the last round of funding, about $45 billion, is set to expire at the end of September. Because of the Pentagons recalculation, the $6.2 billion would still be available to use after Sept. 30, the end of the fiscal year.

Were confident we will have enough money to meet Ukraines needs through the fiscal year and were hopeful that Congress will approve a supplemental package for Ukraine, Deputy Pentagon Press Secretary Sabrina Singh said.

This is the 45th time that the U.S. has provided weapons through the presidential drawdown authority, which means it will come directly from Pentagon stocks and be sent quickly on an emergency basis. Aid given this way typically means it reaches Ukraine in a matter of weeks.

Other weapons and items in the new military aid include:
A turtle pokes its nose out of the water in the wetlands inside Sugar Hollow Park in Bristol, Va., on June 12, 2023. The Biden administration weakened regulations protecting millions of acres of wetlands Tuesday, Aug. 29, saying it had no choice after the Supreme Court sharply limited the federal governments jurisdiction over them. (Emily Ball/Bristol Herald Courier via AP)

WASHINGTON (AP)  The Biden Administration weakened protections for wetlands on Tuesday. Federal officials were forced to make the change after the Supreme Court's decision in May that sharply limited the federal government's power to regulate wetlands. The justices' Sackett decision in May boosted property rights over concerns about clean water.

WASHINGTON (AP)  The Biden administration weakened regulations protecting millions of acres of wetlands Tuesday, saying it had no choice after the Supreme Court sharply limited the federal government's jurisdiction over them.

The rule would require that wetlands be more clearly connected to other waters like oceans and rivers, a policy shift that departs from a half-century of federal rules governing the nation's waterways.

Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Michael Regan said the agency had no alternative after the Supreme Court sharply limited the federal government's power to regulate wetlands that do not have a "continuous surface connection" to larger, regulated bodies of water.

Justices boosted property rights over concerns about clean water in a May ruling in favor of an Idaho couple who sought to build a house near a lake. Chantell and Michael Sackett had objected when federal officials required them to get a permit before filling part of the property with rocks and soil.

The ruling was the second decision in as many years in which a conservative majority on the high court narrowed the reach of environmental regulations.

"While I am disappointed by the Supreme Court's decision in the Sackett case, EPA and Army (Corps of Engineers) have an obligation to apply this decision alongside our state co-regulators," Regan said in a statement Tuesday.

The rule announced Tuesday revises a rule finalized earlier this year regulating "waters of the United States." Developers and agriculture groups have long sought to limit the federal government's power to use the Clean Water Act to regulate waterways, arguing the law should cover fewer types of rivers, streams and wetlands. Environmental groups have long pushed for a broader definition that would protect more waters.

The new rule is highly unusual and responds specifically to the Supreme Court ruling in the Sackett case. Typically, a rule is proposed, the public weighs in and then the federal government releases a final version. This rule changes existing policy to align with the recent Supreme Court decision and is final.

Damien Schiff, a senior attorney with the Pacific Legal Foundation who represented the Sacketts, said the Biden administration properly changed rules to eliminate unlawful criteria to protect wetlands. "Kudos to the agencies," he said.

Still, Schiff said the rule ignored other ways that the court limited the reach of the Clean Water Act to protect certain streams and ditches. "I think this attempt to keep it vague, whether it is wisely strategic in a political sense, is just not legally sustainable," he said.

A coalition of business groups was unhappy with the rule, too.

"Even worse, the agencies blocked public input and engagement in the revision process," said Courtney Briggs, chair of the industry group Waters Advocacy Coalition in a statement.

The Supreme Court ruling was a win for developer and agriculture groups. It said federally protected wetlands must be directly adjacent to a "relatively permanent" waterway "connected to traditional interstate navigable waters," such as a river or ocean.

They also must have a "continuous surface connection with that water," Justice Samuel Alito wrote.

The court's decision broke with a 2006 opinion by former Justice Anthony Kennedy that said wetlands were regulated if they had a "significant nexus" to larger bodies of water. That had been the standard for evaluating whether developers needed a permit before they could discharge into wetlands. Opponents had long said the standards was vague, hard to interpret and generally unworkable.

Justice Elena Kagan wrote in a separate opinion that the majority's decision was political, improperly weakening regulatory powers Congress gave the federal government.

The rule issued Tuesday removes the "significant nexus" test from consideration when identifying tributaries and other waters as federally protected.

The amended rule should "provide clarity and a path forward consistent with the (Supreme Court) ruling,'' the EPA said.

Because the sole purpose of the new rule is to amend specific provisions of the previous rule that were rendered invalid by the high court, the new rule will take effect immediately, the EPA said.

Julian Gonzalez, senior legislative counsel with Earthjustice, said the change is likely to weaken protections for ephemeral streams, which only flow after rainstorms and are especially common in the arid Southwest.

Kelly Moser, senior attorney at the Southern Environmental Law Center, said the new rule overturns decades of federal law and practice. "The rule, like the Sackett decision itself, severely restricts the federal government's ability to protect critical waters including wetlands that shield communities from damaging floods and pollution."

Reducing wetland protections "while two hurricanes are barreling off our coasts is nothing to celebrate," she added.

Michael Connor, assistant Army secretary for civil works, said that with publication of the revised rule, the Army Corps will resume issuing jurisdictional decisions that were paused after the Sackett decision. "Moving forward, the Corps will continue to protect and restore the nation's waters in support of jobs and healthy communities,'' he said in a statement.

In December, the Biden administration finalized its regulations basing them on definitions in place prior to 2015 that federal officials hoped were durable enough to survive a court challenge. They protected many small streams, wetlands and other waters and repealed a Trump-era rule that environmentalists said left far too many of those waterways unregulated.

In recent years, depending on the political party in the White House, the power of the Clean Water Act has varied sharply. The Obama administration sought to enlarge federal power to protect waterways. The Trump administration rolled them back as part of a broader curtailment of environmental regulations.

It's been a political issue, too. Earlier this year, Congress approved a resolution overturning the Biden administration's water protections. Republicans argued the White House had imposed rules that were a burden to businesses and agriculture and the Senate voted in favor 53-43, persuading four Democrats and Independent Sen. Krysten Sinema of Arizona to side with Republicans and vote in favor. Biden vetoed the resolution.

Flesher reported from Traverse City, Mich. and Phillis from St. Louis

The Associated Press receives support from the Walton Family Foundation for coverage of water and environmental policy. The AP is solely responsible for all content. For all of AP's environmental coverage, visit https://apnews.com/hub/climate-and-environment
(Tribune News Service)  Columbus has long been a home to veterans of the military with Fort Moore, formerly Fort Benning, having been a part of the area for over 100 years.

Some of these veterans struggle with life after the military. And in Columbus, some veterans are becoming homeless and dying alone and being buried in paupers graves.

While services for veterans are available through the Veterans Administration, sometimes these benefits aren't easily accessible to veterans. A few local individuals and organizations are helping to both help homeless veterans and preserve the memory of those veterans who have passed away.

As a result, a developing trend that is disturbing to those monitoring veterans and their plight is that homeless and indigent veterans are being buried in paupers graves within Columbus.

One of those watching the problem develop is Patricia Liddell. As a member of American Legion Post 333 in Columbus, Liddell works with the families of veterans who have died to help ensure they receive a funeral with full military honors.

Liddell has helped multiple families make sure their loved ones are sent off with the honor they deserve and with comrades there to wish them goodbye.

She said she's usually notified before a homeless or indigent veteran is buried so she can arrange for a full military funeral at Fort Mitchell in Alabama. However, this isn't always the case.

In some instances soldiers are buried in paupers graves in Columbus and that presents challenges in getting them buried properly.

Liddell said she is currently working on getting a full military funeral for three veterans who have been buried at Porterdale in paupers graves in Columbus.

For a typical military funeral for a homeless or indigent veteran Liddell will contact the funeral service at Fort Mitchell and schedule the funeral and then have an acquaintance send out a press release to other veterans so they can give their fellow soldier a proper send off.

Liddell said at one soldier's funeral about 40 people showed up to the funeral.

"This soldier served his country and he needs to be sent home in a proper manner,"Liddell said.

However, when a soldier is buried in a pauper funeral the process can take time to get them a proper burial. Liddell has to get the family to see if the veteran has a form that has the veterans service history.

The family must then fill out an affidavit allowing for the exhumation of their loved one. Afterwards, the funeral service company must take it to the health department which must approve the exhumation.

Liddell said in one case she's working on right now the affidavit for exhumation was filled out approximately a month prior and the veteran had not yet been exhumed.

In that case she said the veteran was an "up and coming young man" before taking a turn and died two blocks away from where his mother lived and didn't let his family know about his situation.

Liddell said his sister found out about her brother's death while searching for her nephew's obituary and her brother's name popped up. Liddell said the individual died in 2017 and just found out about his death this year.

In another case, a friend of one veteran found out his friend had passed after his buddy didnt meet with him at Oktoberfest in Columbus like they would each year. That soldier now lies in a paupers grave in Porterdale cemetery with grass overgrowing the cross placed above his grave.

The graveyard

The pauper burial section of Porterdale Cemetery has grass ankle deep in some sections with uneven ground throughout.

Some graves are marked with crosses and a select few have headstones. However, some lie with no marking at al. In a row near the pauper section is the final resting place of four World War I soldiers. Some of the few with a proper military headstone.

Some graves are intricately decorated while some have only a mound of grass above them.

"We are our brother's keeper," said Liddell

Liddell walked around the pauper section of Porterdale Cemetery as thunder rumbled, lightning cracked and rain poured down from the dark gray clouds above. A somber scene for a final resting place.

"This is heart wrenching," Liddell said as she stood over the grave of one former soldier. "He served to give us the right to stand here, and look at how he's buried."

"I'm having real issues right now," Liddell went on to say. "It makes you want to cry, and I'm trying to hold back the tears."

Liddell said she believes that Columbus should have its own national cemetery due to the large number of veterans that live in the area.

As Liddell walked through the cemetery she kept repeating one phrase, "This is horrible."

Homeless veterans

For homeless veterans, The Plummer Home is a respite from the streets. Founded in 2010 by the late Reverend Roy G. Plummer as a shelter for homeless veterans, the organization has helped more than 500 homeless veterans, said Plummer Home Board Chairman Greg Jordan.

"We restore veterans' lives," said Jordan.

Plummer served as a colonel in the Army, finishing his career as the chief of chaplains at Fort Benning, was a pastor for Faith Tabernacle Community Church for 28 years and was director of Army instruction for the JROTC program in the Muscogee County School District, according to Ledger-Enquirer reporting.

The Plummer Home currently has a house for a male veterans shelter on 18th Street, a female veterans shelter on Coral Drive and has partnered with Safehouse ministries for additional shelter should the need arise.

Jordan says Plummer Home has a partnership with the Freedom Home and has 25 allotted bedrooms for overflow.

"We take care of every homeless veteran in our community and beyond," Jordan said, stating that the Plummer Home has helped homeless veterans from outside of Columbus.

Jordan said one of the goals of the Plummer Home is to continue to grow to be able to do more for homeless veterans.

The Plummer home recently closed on the house on 18th Street and plans are underway to renovate the structure.

Jordan explained that they both seek out homeless veterans to help and have veterans come to them seeking help.

At the time of the interview Plummer Home had six veterans at the 18th Street house, two veterans at the Coral Drive location and a dozen at a third location, according to Jordan.

A count conducted by Home for Good in January of 2023 showed that there were at least 16 homeless veterans with 12 being unsheltered and four being in emergency shelter.

National effort to help stem the tide of homeless veterans

The Department of Veterans Affairs announced in March a goal to help find permanent housing for 38,000 homeless veterans across the country. A department spokesperson said of the 40,401 Veterans housed by VA in 2022, 2,443 returned to homelessness at some point last year.

The VA said 2,443 of those rehoused veterans became homeless again last year, but 86% of those Veterans were rehoused or on a path to rehousing by the end of the year.

For veterans needing help, the department urges those struggling to call the National Call Center for Homeless Veterans at 877-4AID-VET (877-424-3838).

(c)2023 the Columbus Ledger-Enquirer (Columbus, Ga.)

Visit www.ledger-enquirer.com

Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
Iraq has executed three people convicted in a 2016 bombing case involving the ISIL (ISIS) armed group that killed hundreds of people.

According to international media reports, the office of Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani said on Monday that the hangings were carried out on Sunday night and Monday morning, but did not name those executed or provide details about when they were sentenced.

The attack took place early on July 3, 2016, in Baghdads Karrada shopping area when it was filled with people in advance of the Eid al-Fitr festival at the end of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan.

The car bomb killed a limited number of people, officials said at the time, but it caused flames that spread and trapped people inside shopping centres that lacked emergency exits.

By the time the fire was put out, 323 people had died, making it one of the deadliest attacks to ever hit Iraq and one of the worlds deadliest attacks since the September 11, 2001, attacks on the United States.

Police Major-General Talib Khalil Rahi said at the time that the bombers minibus had been loaded with plastic explosives and ammonium nitrate. Some of the dead could not be identified due to the intensity of the raging fires.

Al-Sudanis office said in its statement that the prime minister met the victims families following the hangings and informed them that the rightful punishment of death sentence was carried out against three key criminals found guilty of their involvement in the terrorist bombing.
Relatives of Renee Shinn Chen, who died at the age of 6 during the filming of 'Twilight Zone: The Movie,' at her funeral in Glendale, California; July 1982.

Upon its U.S. release on June 24, 1983, Twilight Zone: The Movie faced scathing criticism. In The New York Times, Vincent Canbys review described it as a flabby, mini-minded behemoth, while Colin Greenland wrote in Imagine magazine that it was not really very impressive as modern fantastic cinema from four of its grand masters, Steven Spielberg, John Landis, Joe Dante and George Miller.

Critic Dave Kehr of The Chicago Reader found the segment directed by George Miller tolerable, but said the other three were unexpectedly mediocre despite the impressive resumes of their directors. Roger Ebert of The Chicago Sun-Times was perhaps the most magnanimous critic, although he ultimately damned the Warner Bros. production with faint praise: Twilight Zone starts slow, almost grinds to a halt, and then has a fast comeback. In tacit agreement, seemingly influenced by the recent extensive news coverage of the movie production, most critics avoided any reference to the negligence and utter lack of professionalism by those responsible for the tragic loss of three lives.

The movie grossed over $6 million in its opening weekend and ended up with a worldwide gross of $42 million. The production cost $10 million and was a financial success, but the movie didnt become the massive hit executives had hoped for. Like in subsequent accident-marred productions such as The Raven, Top Gun and Jumper, the accidental deaths inadvertently fueled effective marketing campaigns.

Bad idea, disastrous execution

Werner Herzog once said that making movies is a high-risk sport, and that if no one dies during filming, its because the gods of cinema are protecting their foolish parishioners. Herzog was maybe referring to his own filming of Fitzcarraldo, when a 320-ton steamship began sliding down a hill as hundreds of extras scrambled for safety. Maybe he was talking about Francis Ford Coppolas Apocalypse Now, an exaggerated display of audacity and megalomania that surprisingly only resulted in one dead water buffalo. However, even these two bold directors couldnt have imagined a scene so perilous and badly executed as the one that tragically claimed the lives of actor Vic Morrow and two Vietnamese-American children in the Twilight Zone segment directed by John Landis.

Vic Morrow, in a scene from 'Twilight Zone: The Movie.' WARNER BROS.

The baffling lack of common sense occurred on July 23, 1982, around 2:30 in the morning at the Indian Dunes ranch near Los Angeles. During the filming of Time Out, the movies first segment, director John Landis decided to add a scene to humanize the main character, Bill Connor, played by Vic Morrow, a 53-year-old New Yorker with a solid television and film career. In the scene, Connor becomes outraged when a Jewish coworker gets a promotion he believes he deserved. Unforeseen journeys through time take Connor to Nazi-occupied Germany and 1950s Alabama. These trips expose him to the horrific truth of African-Americans being tragically targeted by the Ku Klux Klan, compelling him to reassess and ultimately eradicate his own deeply-rooted racist beliefs.

For the segments final scene, an alternate ending was suggested by one of the producers. In another trip back though time, Connor rescues two Vietnamese orphans whose village was being bombed by American helicopters. As Robert Weintraub explains in Slate, the scene was an excuse for director John Landis to capture immense explosions on film. Landis wanted to create a contemporary epic worthy of Apocalypse Now.

The filmmaker and his team made a series of reckless decisions that were almost unbelievable. First, they hired two child actors, Myca Dinh Le and Renee Shin-Yi Chen, who were seven and six years old respectively. This was in direct violation of California law, which explicitly forbade the employment of children at night. Additionally, hiring minors always required a special permit, which they didnt bother to obtain. Everything was resolved with a hasty agreement involving Peter Wei-Te Chen, Renees uncle. He acted as a representative of the families and accepted a cash payment on their behalf, without any formal contract or insurance.

The deal was closed quickly by associate producers George Folsey Jr. without informing the casting crew or the on-set firefighters. Landis was eager to cut through the red tape and quickly shoot the scene. After all, the children would only appear briefly on screen.

Out-of-control explosions and a sudden panic attack

To recreate the bombing of the village, a Bell UH-1 Iroquois military helicopter was used. It was piloted by Dorcey Wingo, an Air Force veteran with combat experience in Vietnam. Wingo, who was new to filmmaking, participated in an explosives test before shooting the scene and noticed that the helicopter shook abnormally during the explosions. However, a colleague from the special effects department warned him not to say anything because the dictatorial Landis would fire him on the spot. Wingo decided to stay quiet.

As Stephen Farber and Marc Green write in their book Outrageous Conduct, a detailed chronicle of the accident, as soon as cameras rolled, pyrotechnic fireballs engulfed the helicopter. Wingo suffered a panic attack. The cameraman in the helicopter, Randall Robinson, said they then received conflicting instructions. The production assistant told them to leave the area as quickly as possible, but Landis kept ordering them to descend a little more. According to the testimony of another cameraman, Landis then callously said, The shot is turning out great, but were going to lose the helicopter.

Judge Roger W. Boren (center) and Los Angeles District Attorney Lea D'Agostino watch firefighters recreate the helicopter's flight path during the investigation into the on-set deaths of 'Twilight Zone: The Movie.' Bob Riha Jr (Getty Images)

The explosions forced an overwhelmed Wingo down into a river where the actors waded. As a hundred or so people looked on, the right skid of the aircraft crushed Renee, who was a few feet from Morrow. The helicopter then toppled over, and its main blade sliced through Morrow and Myca. According to Farber and Greens book, there was shocked silence until Renees mother started shrieking as she kneeled over her daughters lifeless body. Morrow never got to deliver his scripted line: Ill keep you safe, kids. I promise. Nothing will hurt you, I swear to God.

The disaster that changed the way movies are made

The official investigation into the accident concluded in October 1984. Despite negative press and criticism from specialized critics, the film had already achieved significant success. Experts determined that the tragedy resulted from both excessive explosions and the helicopters low flight path. In other words, it appeared to be a planning issue rather than specific human errors.

Landis, Folsey, Wingo, a production manager and an explosives expert faced charges of involuntary manslaughter. However, they were acquitted after a high-profile trial that took place from April 1986 to February 1987. Landis became a prime target for the tabloids who lambasted his callous arrogance, and Los Angeles District Attorney Lea DAgostino, who called him a white-collar killer.

Folsey, initially portrayed by the media as a victim of Landiss poor judgment, later faced widespread criticism for making controversial statements. Morrow could have prevented the tragedy if he had followed my instructions, said Folsey. I repeatedly emphasized the importance of never losing sight of the helicopter. The families of the victims successfully pursued a civil lawsuit against the films producers for reckless conduct and violation of labor laws, and received a substantial settlement.

Tayler Golsen writes in Far Out magazine that the only positive consequence of the disaster was that it changed the way movies are made. The Directors Guild of America began stricter enforcements for safety violations, while the Screen Actors Guild included new clauses in their contracts that allowed actors to step away from films should they not feel safe on set. This effectively ended the irresponsible self-indulgence of tyrannical directors like John Landis, who was riding a wave of hit films like Animal House, The Blues Brothers, An American werewolf in London and Trading Places. During the trial, it seemed that Landis, perhaps on the advice of his lawyers, displayed a polite smugness that made him appear unaffected by the suffering he caused.

In a 1996 interview with The Financial Times, Landis finally seemed to express the contrition that his detractors had been wanting for over 20 years. There is nothing remotely positive in this whole story. It was an enormous tragedy that I have not stopped thinking about for a single day. It continues to haunt me and has had a profound impact on my career, from which I may never recover.

Years later, Steven Spielberg told his biographer, Joseph McBride, No film is worth dying for. He said the accident was the worst experience of his career and the reason why he was no longer friends with Landis. Today, industry professionals are increasingly aware of their ability and right to assert themselves when faced with excessive demands from producers or directors.

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Brian Adams (36) went on to urinate in a garda station cell following his arrest

A roofer hurled abuse at an ambulance crew after he was found unresponsive on a Dublin street.

Brian Adams (36) went on to urinate in a garda station cell following his arrest.

Judge Gerard Jones gave him a one-month suspended sentence and ordered him to pay 200 to a garda charity.

Adams, of St Ronans Park, Clondalkin pleaded guilty to public order offences and criminal damage.

Blanchardstown District Court heard members of the public flagged gardai down on Neilstown Road, Clondalkin at 6.30pm on April 6 last year.

Adams was unresponsive on the ground after apparently falling off his bike. When an ambulance was called, he became extremely threatening and abusive to Dublin Fire Brigade personnel. He appeared to be under the influence of an intoxicant and had to be restrained for his own safety.

He also urinated in a cell at Ronanstown garda station, damaging it. He had previous convictions.

The accused had been drinking and taking tablets as he was depressed at the time, the court heard. Adams had suffered a number of bereavements, his solicitor Kelly Breen said.

He was very apologetic and embarrassed about the incident.
Carson Nangle, was found in an unresponsive state in his cot on the morning of April 11, 2022

The sudden death of a 16-month-old boy in foster care in Dublin last year was due to a combination of factors including the sedative effect of a drug given to treat his chesty condition, an inquest has heard.

The boy, Carson Nangle, was found in an unresponsive state in his cot on the morning of April 11, 2022.

A sitting of Dublin District Coroners Court heard the toddler had been placed in the foster care of his aunt, Rachel ONeill, from Millrace Walk, Saggart, Co Dublin by Tusla.

The inquest also heard concerns by Ms ONeill that she was never able to get any recommended vaccinations for the youngster because she was not his legal guardian.

The coroner, Crona Gallagher, heard evidence that Carson, who was always very chesty and snotty, had been unsettled and screaming regularly the previous evening for which he was given a dose of Calpol and an antihistamine, promethazine which is sold under the brand name, Phenergan.

State pathologist, SallyAnne Collis, said post-mortem results on the boy showed the probable cause of his death was a combination of viral respiratory infections, the sedative effect of the antihistamine and the fact that he was asleep lying face down in his cot.

Dr Collis said the toddler had appeared nourished and clean and showed no sign of any injury.

However, the pathologist noted he had chronic inflammation in his air passage and the lining of his lungs which was consistent with respiratory infections.

Dr Collis observed the use of promethazine was not recommended for children under 2 years, while babies lying on their chest was a known risk factor for sudden deaths.

While a genetic cardiac disorder was possible, Dr Collis said no tests had been carried out to check for it but she believed such a cause was unlikely to be responsible for the boys death.

In reply to questions from the coroner, Dr Collis said the sedative effect of the antihistamine would impact on the part of the brain that controls breathing.

She said the amount of the drug given to the boy was not excessively high for an adult but there were no recommended levels for very young children.

Asked if any individual factor could have caused the boys death, the pathologist said it was difficult to separate them out and she believed it was the combination of factors which compounded each other.

The inquest on Tuesday was informed that Carsons mother, Kim Nangle, had been fostered herself by Ms ONeills parents and had grown up with the family.

However, Carson had been placed in the care of Ms ONeill since he was about 3 months old because Ms Nangle had a problem with drug addiction.

Ms ONeill told the coroner that she had originally just agreed to take care of Carson over a bank holiday weekend following a garda raid on Ms Nangles home in February 2021.

The inquest heard she and other family members were part of a safety plan that had been put in place by Tusla even before the boy was born which included twice daily checks on Ms Nangle and her son.

Ms ONeill said Carson was like a brother to her own two children.

She described him as strong and hardy while also wild.

As far as I was concerned, he was 100pc healthy, said Ms ONeill.

Fighting back tears throughout the inquest, she said Carson had eventually fallen asleep around midnight on the night before he died after being restless and screaming for several hours.

When she woke the next morning and went into his room around 10.20am she felt something was wrong as he was not snoring like usual.

Ms ONeill said she started screaming after she saw that he was purple and motionless and had white foam coming out his mouth.

The inquest heard she tried giving him CPR before paramedics arrived around 10 minutes later.

However, attempts to resuscitate were unsuccessful and he was pronounced dead shortly after 11am.

Her father, Kevin ONeill, gave evidence of formally identifying his foster grandsons body in an ambulance outside his daughters house.

Ms ONeill told the coroner that the boys restlessness the previous evening was out of character.

I didnt know what to do with him, she added.

The inquest heard that Carson had remained with her since February 2021 with Ms Nangle being allowed supervised visits.

Ms ONeill also expressed concern that she was unable to get Carson vaccinated by a GP because she was not his legal guardian.

She said she had informed Tusla that she wanted to become his legal guardian primarily to be able to access medical care for him but understood it was only possible after she had been fostering him for 12 months.

A solicitor for Ms Nangle, Seona Ni Mhurchu, said Ms Nangle her client provided Tusla with consent forms to allow Carson to be vaccinated.

A senior social worker with Tusla, Michael Melotte, said the child and family agency were satisfied that putting Carson in the care of the ONeill family was an appropriate placement.

Mr Melotte said Tusla was impressed with the high level of care and support offered by Ms ONeill and her wider family.

He agreed with Ms Mhurchu that it was unusual for a child of 16 months not to have been vaccinated.

It was not brought to our attention at the time that it was an issue, he remarked.

Under questioning by the coroner, Mr Melotte admitted he could see the problem of a foster carer trying to get medical permission for non-elective surgery on a child in their care arising as an issue because they were not a legal guardian.

He believed that Ms ONeill was not required to wait 12 months before she could have applied to become Carsons legal guardian as Ms Nangle was consenting to it but he did not know why it had not happened.

The inquest heard that Tusla was informed by staff at Childrens Health Ireland at Crumlin, where his body was brought, that Carson had died from Sudden Infant Death Syndrome but Mr Melotte acknowledged it was incorrect information based on the evidence.

Ms Nangle, who was in a state of distress throughout the hearing, did not give evidence.

Speaking on her behalf, Ms Ni Mhurchu said Carson was very much loved by her and she thought about him every day and missed him all the time.

She said Ms Nangle had last seen him about a week before he died and she recalled he was a very happy, playful baby.

She wants everyone to know how much he was loved, Ms Ni Mhurchu added.

Returning a verdict of death by misadventure, the coroner stressed that no blame was being attached to anyone with such a finding.

Dr Gallagher said things were just too much for the little boy on the particular night and what happened could not have been prevented.

Offering her sympathy to Carsons relatives, she said the evidence showed proof of the quality of care that the ONeill family had provided to the lively, funny and happy boy.
Liam Taylor (37) said he was too sick to stand in the dock as a 27-year sentence was handed down last week

Lucy Letby refused to face the families of her victims after she was found guilty

Those found guilty of violent crimes in the UK will be made listen to victim impact statements in court after a cowardly thug who murdered his Irish girlfriend and her unborn baby cried off sick.

Liam Taylor (37) said he was too sick to stand in the dock as a 27-year sentence was handed down last week for the horrific murder of pregnant Ailish Walsh in a frenzied scissors attack in their London flat.

There was a similar issue in the Lucy Letby case after she refused to face the families of her victims after she was found guilty.

Taylor, meanwhile, heard the sentencing at the Old Bailey in London via video link from Belmarsh prison.

The UK Government is now expected to change the law, to compel those found guilty of violent crimes and murder to stand in court and listen to the victim impact statements of those who have lost their loved ones.

Taylor's victim Ailish Walsh

Sadistic Taylor stabbed Ailish Walsh 40 times at her home in Rectory Road, Stoke Newington, north London, on December 15 last year.

Earlier this week, Taylor was jailed for 27 years. However, evil Taylor did not have the courage to face his victims family in court and instead attended the sentence hearing via video link.

The court had heard how he slashed the mother-of-four a dozen times to her face, including her eye.

Some of the stab wounds were directed at the 22 week old foetus and his partner's genitals because Taylor had two daughters and wanted a son, the Old Bailey heard.

He also battered her around the head with a 15kg dumbbell.

Prosecutor Jane Osborne said: Ailish had told more than one person that the defendant was upset about the pregnancy because he wanted a boy.

"Some of the injuries were deliberately aimed at the unborn child.

Ms Walsh, 28  originally from Dublin - had been trying to break up with Taylor because she thought he was seeing another woman and had found him taking cocaine.

She was 22 weeks pregnant with Taylor's child at the time of her death.

Taylor, who went out to buy rum, coke and cigarettes after the killing told police that wont bring her back though will it, when he was arrested.

He added: Its crazy how one moment of madness can change your whole life.

Ms Walsh had four children aged between six and 10 from a previous marriage in Ireland.

Taylor was jailed for a year in 2020 for beating his mother in the head and face with a metal pole.

Passing sentence Judge Nigel Lickley told Taylor over the video link: You assaulted Ailish with a ferocious, brutal and savage attack.

You used a weapon and targeted parts of her face, abdomen and genitals with the intention to disfigure her.

Lucy Letby refused to face the families of her victims after she was found guilty

The attack had elements, which I find sadistic in nature.

The judge added: I have to distinguish between genuine remorse and feeling sorry for yourself.

Attending in person might have indicated real remorse.

Members of the victim's family hurled abuse at Taylor as they left court.

Ms Walshs father Laurence Goulding said in a victim impact statement summarised to court how difficult it was to have to bury his daughter, and that he is angry she is gone.

He said he felt isolated as he has a terminal illness and Ailish had been his carer before her death.

Matthew Perry, the father of Ms Walsh's young children, called Taylor a f**king scumbag in an impact statement he gave from the witness box.

You have subjected innocent children to a lifetime of asking questions, he said.

"No person deserves to be subjected to that torture. You are worse than a monster. Untold devastation has been inflicted by you on our family.

My children are terrified that one day you will be given the opportunity to leave prison.

Mr Perry added that Ms Walsh was kind smart, caring and willing to give anyone a chance including you, you f*cking scumbag.

The prosecution argued Taylor intended to kill the unborn baby but did not bring a charge of child destruction as the baby was within the legal limit for abortion and would not have survived outside the womb.

Taylor, previously of Rectory Road, Stoke Newington, admitted murder.

His barrister said Taylor he had not attended court because he was not feeling extremely well but he was listening to every word on the court video

Ailishs sister Siobhan OConnor said no amount of prison time is good enough for what he done and put Ailish and her baby through.

This is the face of Liam Taylor, the woman and baby-killing, murdering low-life animal who was sentenced to life in prison, she said.

[He] deserves so much more... I can only hope he will get his real justice dished out in prison.

Siobhan said Taylor was responsible for inflicting the most horrific injuries its actually hard to comprehend how someone could do that [to] another person.

She added: Specifically targeting her unborn baby daughter. No words can ever make sense of this utter shocking and barbaric violence.

No decent person could understand the deranged mind set of a cowardly woman and baby killer like Liam Taylor.

I pray he never gets the opportunity to hurt another woman or child again and for the 27 years, and hopefully longer, this will be the case.

Hopefully his face will be remembered everywhere he goes and his evil actions follow him until the day he dies, and hopefully he dies with as much pain as he has inflicted.

Rest in peace, Ailish.
When officers arrested the 64-year-old from California, he replied: But Im a tourist.

An American tourists European holiday has been plunged into disarray after he was caught drink-driving in Belfast city centre, a court heard today.

Brian Kelly was nearly three times over the limit when stopped on Sunday afternoon as he prepared to leave the Europa Hotel in a hire car for the next leg of the trip for his wifes birthday.

The 64-year-old, from San Diego in California, was fined 250 and disqualified from getting behind the wheel again for 12 months.

Police were alerted that an intoxicated guest had driven a short distance from Glengall Street to the front of the hotel on Great Victoria Street.

When officers arrested Kelly he replied: But Im a tourist.

He was taken into custody and failed a breath test.

Appearing at Belfast Magistrates Court, the US citizen pleaded guilty to a charge of driving with excess alcohol.

Defence solicitor Paul Dougan argued that Kelly has learnt a very salutary lesson.

Mr Dougan said: The defendant was most surprised at the very high reading, almost three times over the limit.

As Kellys wife attended in the public gallery, the court heard that the couple have been touring Ireland before travelling on to the next part of their holiday in Europe.

Its a very unfortunate end to this part of their trip to this island, Mr Dougan acknowledged.

He (Kelly) was moving the car from the car park to the front of the hotel to put luggage in the vehicle when he was detected.

With the defendant now disqualified and his wife believed to be unable to drive their hired car, the couple will have to make alternative travel arrangements.

Its going to place their travel plans in disarray. This has been a very costly experience, Mr Dougan added.

Banning Kelly from driving for 12 months, District Judge John Meehan confirmed that he will then be required to retake the motoring test.

Mr Meehan also insisted that the 250 fine must be paid before the defendant is released.
The body of Robert Wilkin (60s) was found on July 3rd last after a week-long search

A woman has appeared in court charged with the murder of a man whose body was found floating in waters off the Sliabh Liag cliffs in Co Donegal in July.

The body of Robert Wilkin (60s) was found on July 3rd last after a week-long search by a number of state agencies including the Gardai and the Irish Coastguard.

Today, a special sitting of Letterkenny District Court, Nikita Burns was charged with his murder.

Ms Burns (21) is the second person to be charged with the murder of Mr Wilkin.

On July 14th last, 38-year-old Alan Vial, was also charged with the murder of Mr Wilkin.

Vial, of Drumanoo Head, Killybegs, was charged that on the 25th of June, 2023 at a place unknown within the State, did murder one Robert Wilkin (also known as Robin Wilkin.)

He was remanded in custody and is due to appear before the courts again in September.

Ms Burns, wearing white trousers and a black top, appeared before Judge Ciaran Liddy.

Detective Sgt Matthie Murphy of Ballyshannon Garda Station gave evidence of arrest, charge and caution.

He gave evidence of arresting Ms Burns on August 28th at 9.53pm at Westend, Bundoran.

Ms Burns was charged that on the 25th of June, 2023 at a place unknown within the State, did murder one Robert Wilkin (also known as Robin Wilkin.)

The charge was Contrary to Common Law and as provided for by Section 4 of the Criminal Justice Act 1964.

At 10.21pm when charged, Ms Burns replied "I didn't do it."

Garda Superintendent Karen Duffy asked the court that remand the accused in custody until September 4th to appear at Letterkenny District Court by videolink.

Solicitor for the accused, Mr Rory O'Brien, said that bail does not arise in the matter.

Legal aid was granted as the court was told that Ms Burns is a suitable candidate.

Mr O'Brien asked for legal aid which was granted and he also asked that she receive all the necessary medical treatment while in custody including any psychiatric treatment she may need.

The case was adjourned until September 3rd to seek directions from the Director of Public Prosecutions.
Cash was hidden in a vehicle along with a quantity of Sterling - we've seized the lot.

Gardai seized over 90,000 found hidden inside a vehicle during a search operation related to a drugs investigations in Galway this week.

Gardai from the Ballinasloe Community Engagement area searched a residence in the town yesterday and during the course of the operation they came across 90,500 found hidden inside a vehicle on the premises, along with some British currency.

The cash was seized as well as the vehicle, which is being forensically examined.

A statement from gardai today said:

As part of our ongoing activity targeting the sale and supply of illegal drugs in East Galway, Gardai searched a residence in the Ballinasloe area.

Over 90,000 in cash was hidden in a vehicle along with a quantity of Sterling - we've seized the lot.

It is believed no arrests have yet been made in connection with this investigation, but inquiries are ongoing.

The successful cash seizure comes days after a man in his 30s was charged in connection with another seizure of of almost 50,000 of cocaine, cash, cars and 10 designer watches in Galway.

Gardai raided seven locations in Galway city and county on Friday, August 25, 2023, as part of Operation Tara.

Suspected cocaine worth 47,000 was seized in addition to 39,490 in cash and ten designer watches, including Rolex and Hublot timepieces.
I have no doubt that had we not stopped them, they would have used this route repeatedly to bring in more drugs

Some of the drugs that were discovered

Sundeep Singh and Billy Hayre worked at Sandwell Council but also belonged to an organised crime group bringing drugs into the UK

Two men who were caught trying to smuggle a combined 60 kilos of cocaine and amphetamine into the UK from Mexico on a cargo plane have been jailed for 12 years.

Sundeep Singh Rai (37) and his 43-year-old accomplice Billy Hayre were members of an organised crime group (OCG) that plotted to bring in the 30 kilos of cocaine and 30 kilos of amphetamine hidden in a laser cutting machine

However, they were unaware that NCA investigators knew about the plan and provided intelligence to Border Force who found the drugs after the flight landed at Heathrow Airport on May 16 last year.

The haul of Class A was removed and seized before investigators allowed the empty consignment to go ahead while monitoring it.

More than a week later investigators were watching as it was collected from a cargo holding area on June 8 by a white Mercedes van and driven to the Greet Green Industrial Estate in West Bromwich, West Midlands.

Some of the drugs that were discovered

Rai, of Okehampton Drive, West Bromwich, and Hayre, of Hathersage Road, Birmingham, met the Mercedes van and unloaded the shipment into an industrial unit.

The following day both men, who both worked as housing officers at Sandwell Council, took delivery of another drugs shipment.

The men met a heavy goods vehicle back at the industrial estate carrying a cover load of bananas.

As the pair began unloading it, NCA officers supported by West Midlands Police officers, moved in an arrested them.

More than nine kilos of cocaine hidden in a cardboard box was also found in Rais car, while another two kilos of methylmethcathinone  also known by the street name of Meow Meow - was found in the garage of Rais home.

A property he rented in Balfour Crescent, Wolverhampton, was also searched where officers found 250 grams of heroin, 700 ecstasy tablets, a cash counting machine and a dealing list.

Both Rai and Hayre initially denied charges of conspiracy to supply class A drugs but changed their pleas to guilty just before a trial was due to start at Wolverhampton Crown Court on February 7.

Describing the defendants version of events as preposterous, the judge sentenced each of them to 12 years imprisonment.

NCA Operations Manager Chris Duplock said: Rai and Hayre were behind a sophisticated attempt to smuggle class A drugs from Mexico on to the streets of the UK.

Some 60 kilos in total were seized

I have no doubt that had we not stopped them, they would have used this route repeatedly to bring in more drugs.

Working with partners at home and abroad, we will do all we can to disrupt the supply of class A drugs which are inextricably linked to gang violence and real suffering across UK communities.
It is important that payment processes and protocols for the NCT service are inclusive and accessible for everyone in the community

You can still pay for your NCT using cash

The NCT will not be going cashless after all, even though operator Applus+ said they would be for safety and convenience.

Junior Minister Jack Chambers confirmed this morning that the national car testing service will not be removing cash as a payment option.

Minister Chambers told Newstalk that no changes to the payment system had been agreed with the Road Safety Authority (RSA).

"The current system of payment is continuing and if any alternative is agreed, there will have to be a payment system which facilitates those who cannot access online or electronic payment structures," he said.

He said he has been clear that the NCT payment system must be "inclusive and accessible for all members of the community after charities for the elderly warned that many older people are not computer literate and remain reliant on cash.

NCT operator Applus+ last week announced that test centres were going cashless for customers safety and convenience.

Applus+ Inspection Services said it would only accept card and postal order payments, meaning that drivers couldnt pay for their test on the day.

The NCT posted the announcement on social media, saying: Were saying goodbye to cash! NCTs are going cashless over the coming months for your safety and convenience.

"This means that payment must be made in advance of attending for your NCT. When introduced, payment can be made online or by postal order.

The announcement was met with backlash from the public and some politicians, with Chambers earlier addressing the issue.

When concerns about this arose during the week, I sought to clarify this with the Road Safety Authority, he said during the week.

I have been clear with the Road Safety Authority that people without access to online or electronic payment structures will continue to have alternative options to pay for the NCT service and that a range of payment options must remain available.

It is important that payment processes and protocols for the NCT service are inclusive and accessible for everyone in the community.

The first thing to say is no change has been agreed.

Chambers said that three pc of NCT customers pay for their test in cash.

The junior minister told RTEs News at One that a possible voucher system could be used to allow customers to exchange cash for a payment voucher which could then be used to pay for the NCT.

A spokesperson for Applus+ said that a move towards prepayment was necessary to reduce a high-level of no shows at test centres.

The testing service sees approximately 2,500 no shows per week and a further 1,000 late cancellations, Applus stated.

The decision to move to a 100pc prepayment is with our customers in mind and to provide them with a much-improved service in terms of availability of appointments and a more efficient service, a statement issued today said.

We do understand there is a cohort of customers who do not use online services and who may be directly impacted by this, we have made the provision for these customers to pay by bank draft or by a postal order which can be purchased from any An Post office throughout the country.

Aontu TD Peadar Toibin said the Applus+ announcement highlighted the need for a national conversation on cash.

The NCT now join the AIB and the GAA in reversing the decision for mandatory electronic transactions. The truth is the Minister of Finance needs to set policy in this area. We need to decide what role cash will have in the future in Ireland, he said.

Many businesses do not have card machines. Many people in the service industry rely on cash tips. Club fundraisers rely on cash for club lotteries. Charities, buskers, church gate collections will all suffer if the government allows the cash to be deleted in daily transactions.
A row of charred and unserviceable Russian tanks and artillery pieces went on display this week on Khreschatyk Avenue in the heart of Kyiv. Coinciding with August 24, Ukraines Independence Day, thousands of citizens came to see these war trophies being paraded. Irina is 46 years old and lives with her 22-year-old son. She took photos last Thursday of a column of Mstsa-S artillery pieces captured from the enemy. The woman, in favor of expelling the Russians from all the occupied territories, had no objection to giving her last name to be quoted in EL PAIS, until one question caught her off-guard and she answered honestly on condition of anonymity: Would she accept a liberation war that lasted a decade if it meant that her son had to go to the front? Id rather the Russians take the Donbas [region in southeast Ukraine] than see my son fighting.

Thursday marked a year and a half since the start of the Russian war against Ukraine, and time is ticking faster for the invaded country. The lack of results on the battlefield is causing anxiety not only in Ukrainian society, but also among Kyivs allies, particularly the United States. The Ukrainian Armed Forces began their highly anticipated offensive last June, for which they have had a supply of weapons from NATO countries. These, according to what General Valerii Zaluzhnyi, the Ukrainian commander-in-chief, wrote at the end of 2022, would allow the reconquest of territories lost since the start of the invasion.

Expectations in the Ukrainian counteroffensive were very high, but reality points to a less optimistic outcome. Last week the Pentagon leaked classified information to The Washington Post in which it is assumed that Zaluzhnyis troops would not achieve any significant objective in 2023. More specifically, it would not recapture the city of Melitopol, in the southeast of the country. Melitopol is located in the province of Zaporizhzhia and liberating it would be decisive in cutting off the Russian military axis that controls the coast of the Azov Sea and the territories to the south, half the province of Kherson, and land access to the Crimean peninsula.

American reviews

In The New York Times this week, senior U.S. military commanders also criticized the Ukrainian advance for being based on a mistaken strategy that prioritizes not having high casualties, something that is inevitable when an army attacks, and in dispersing its forces excessively on multiple fronts instead of concentrating on the Zaporizhzhia front. Only with a change of tactics and a drastic turn can the timing of the counteroffensive be changed, a U.S. military official told the newspaper. Neither side publishes casualty numbers, but the Pentagon reported on August 18 that, according to its count, Russia had 120,000 dead soldiers and some 180,000 wounded in the last 18 months; Ukraine, according to U.S. military numbers, suffered 70,000 fatalities and up to 120,000 wounded casualties.

In Washington there is another ticking clock that is also going against Ukrainian interests: the 2024 presidential elections. The favorite for the Republican Partys presidential nomination, Donald Trump, has made it clear that if he is elected president, he will cut off military aid to Ukraine.

The cost of military, financial, and humanitarian aid for Ukraine by its allies is enormous: the United States has already provided Kyiv with $113 billion (104 billion, more than half spent on military materiel) and U.S. President Joe Biden has asked Congress this August to approve a new package of $40 billion (37 billion). According to the Kiel Institute for the Global Economy, which regularly monitors international support for Ukraine, the total aid received by Kyiv in the first 15 months of the war amounted to $178 billion (165 billion). To understand the size of this assistance, the International Monetary Fund and the European Union contributed 288 billion ($311 billion) to Greece between 2010 and 2015 to prevent the country from going bankrupt. The United States invested $2.3 trillion (2.1 trillion) in two decades of occupation in Afghanistan, between 2001 and 2022, an average of $110 billion (101 billion) per year.

Unsustainable wear and tear

More and more voices warn that the wear and tear of a large-scale conflict like the one in Ukraine is unsustainable in the long term. Symptomatic of this was the secret meeting held last July in New York by the Russian Foreign Minister, Sergei Lavrov, with veteran U.S. diplomats. The goal is to establish a diplomatic channel that allows negotiations to end the war to be opened in the future, facing aspects such as the fate of the territories that Ukraine will not be able to liberate, according to NBC.

The most bitter remarks for Ukraine, reflecting the mounting pressure on Kyiv, were made on 15 August by the head of the NATO Secretary Generals office, Stian Jenssen, during a political forum in Norway, when he contemplated that an option for the country to accede to the Atlantic Alliance would be to cede part of its territory to Russia. Although Jenssen later qualified his words, his speech has marked the political debate in Ukraine ever since.

A girl rides a scooter past Russian vehicles on display in central Kyiv during the Independence Day celebration on August 24, 2023. CATHAL MCNAUGHTON (EFE)

The mantra repeated by Western foreign ministries is that the Ukrainian Armed Forces must reconquer as much territory as possible in order to start in a better position when the time comes to negotiate an end to the war. This was recalled by the French president, Emmanuel Macron, in an interview on August 23 for Le Point: My wish is that the Ukrainian counteroffensive can bring everyone back to the negotiating table so that they reach a political solution under the most favorable conditions. Macron added that it should be the Ukrainians who set the conditions of the negotiation. And, for the moment, the Ukrainian conditions are explicit: there will be no concessions. This is stated in the peace plan proposed by Zelenskiy and so stipulated in a resolution approved by the Rada [the Ukrainian parliament] on August 23, in which there was a request to prohibit by law relinquishing any region occupied by Russia in exchange for ending the war.

Solid Russian defenses

The problem is that the counteroffensive has not met the expectations that the Ukrainian military leadership itself created. Precedents called for optimism. Swift counteroffensives in the summer and fall of 2022 liberated the entire Kharkov Oblast and the western half of the Kherson Oblast. But the context compared to a year ago is very different because since then, Russia has erected 800 kilometers (500 miles) of defense structures, triple lines of anti-armor obstacles, minefields, and a network of machine gun nests, bunkers, and artillery trenches. The result is that in two and a half months, the only significant advance has been a corridor around 12 kilometers long on the Zaporizhzhia front. Melitopol is still 65 kilometers (40 miles) from the Ukrainian troops.

The addition of German Leopard tanks and hundreds of NATO armored personnel carriers, as well as new Western self-propelled artillery that are better than the old Soviet-made ones, were used by Ukrainian propaganda to boost their image of invincibility. During the preparations for the counteroffensive, in an interview with EL PAIS last April, General Sergey Melnik was convinced that the Ukrainian firepower would force Russian troops to flee at some point on the front, opening a decisive crack in the invaders defenses. None of this has happened so far.

There are other factors that have been key to Russias defensive success. The destruction of the Nova Kakhovka dam last June altered the course of the Dnipro River, which marks the front line in the south, making it an even more complex geographical feature to overcome militarily. This was confirmed by a report that month from the Center for International and Strategic Studies, a United States defense analysis institute: the Ukrainian forces would face more obstacles because, either the width of the river had increased in some sections, or much of what was once navigable space for boats is now quagmire that the Ukrainian military leadership needs time to study how to overcome. The ecological catastrophe of the dam, which the Ukrainian and Western intelligence services take for granted was blown up by the invader, was used by Valery Gerasimov, chief of the Russian General Staff, to relocate a large part of his men on the southern front to the east (the Donbas region), Kharkov, and above all, Zaporizhzhia.

Reinforcements from the southern front have also served to relieve the units of the Wagner mercenary group, which, after the coup attempt last June, have been removed from the theatre of war by the Kremlin. Around 32,000 of Wagners paramilitaries took part in the invasion, a force that Russia cannot count on for the moment, especially after the void left by the deaths of Wagners leadership last Thursday in an apparent air crash in which its leader Yevgeny Prigozhin also died.

In contemporary military theory, air superiority is considered essential for the success of an attacking army. A third decisive fact against Ukrainian interests is that Russia has ten times more planes and helicopters than Ukraine. Both sides network of mobile air defense batteries has left the use of aircraft for frontline strikes on the back burner, but Kyiv regrets that slow and difficult negotiations to obtain NATO fighter jets, specifically the F-16 American planes, have weighed down their chances of success. In March, the spokesman for the Ukrainian Air Force warned at a press conference that without the F-16s, the counteroffensive will not be successful. In August, after eight months of discussions with the Biden Administration, the United States finally authorized the Netherlands and Denmark to deliver 61 F-16 aircraft to Kyiv.

In an interview with the German newspaper Bild on August 20, the Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmitro Kuleba responded to the unease that the stalemate at the front was creating: What I ask of analysts is that they be more prudent and that their predictions be accurate. We need more resources in the long term to get more results in the short term. Be confident, be patient, victory is hard work.

Irina Vereshchuk, the Ukrainian minister for the Occupied Territories, was more explicit in a statement on August 15, a text that provoked thousands of critical responses on social networks. In the document, Vereshchuk stated: We have to be honest, the road to victory will be long and hard. We have to prepare for a lasting war. Citizens and authorities, everyone has to adapt to a long and hard war. The Kyiv Post published an unusual and extensive report with twenty or so testimonies from the capitals residents who replied to the minister that they refused to accept living in a large-scale war for years. The populations fatigue is beginning to be a concern for the Ukrainian government, alerted an analysis undertaken by The Economist on August 20. It may be that after one more year of war, the Ukrainians begin to get tired, the American expert on Ukraine Paul Danieri said in an interview last December with this newspaper: This is how wars usually end, with people who are so tired that they end up accepting things that at first they would not have accepted.

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New character Fergal wants immigration reduced, doubts climate change exists and believes the drift towards a cashless society is a plot to control people.

Independent Senator, Ronan Mullen, has lashed out at the script writers of RTEs Dublin drama, Fair City, after the inclusion of a new character described as a conspiracy theorist.

New Carrigstown resident Fergal wants immigration reduced, doubts climate change exists and believes the drift towards a cashless society is a plot to control people.

A particularly unsubtle attempt by RTE to educate the people they believe cannot be reached by argument. How they do patronize the great unwashed, Senator Mullen wrote on social media.

Senator Mullen

Writer John McGuirk also referenced the new storyline whilst speaking on Newstalks Hard Shoulder.

Mr McGuirk believes RTE created Fergal in order to make right wing views seem abnormal or unusual.

Fair City actor, Cillian OSullivan, disagrees. He believes the show is trying to reflect the current state of Irish society.

Soap opera, by its very nature, is reflective of society. Agree with those opinions or not, people like that exist, he said.

Mr OSullivan explained the reasons why he thinks the character has been introduced.

The people that think that its wrong to showcase them in something like Fair City are people who are maybe living in an echo-chamber and they dont want to be faced with the fact that people and these opinions do exist.

Talking about them and featuring them on the show, its not platforming them, its not showcasing them, its just reflecting society - which is what soap opera is designed to do.

I dont think its going to get Margaret in Tullamore to go, You know what? I might have a look at who were the Rothschilds? Oh, they control everything do they?

Its not going to have a huge impact. Were not going to see a huge right-wing political party pop up, take power because Fair City had a character who said, Climate change isnt real. Mr OSullivan added.

The reaction on social media to the arrival of Fergal in Carrigstown has been mixed, to say the least.

Irish cringe propaganda going strong, does anyone really watch this anymore? said one user.

OK I lost it when he said "And the things they're sayin' about trans people!" said another.

Perhaps just a reflection of the values of those working on the show? Same way years ago on Glenroe and Bracken etc. there would have been storylines that reflected how scandalised we as a society were about things such as one parent families. Just the world moving on, was another.
Public consultation is opening tomorrow on a proposal to ban bottom fishing from the vast bulk of the Hauraki Gulf.

The announcement is part of the government's plan to protect the 1.2-million-hectare marine park for future generations.

Options announced today show bottom-trawling and Danish seining could be banned from up to 89 per cent of the marine park.

Aucklanders and others have called for greater protection for their beloved big blue backyard, the Hauraki Gulf/Tikapa Moana. We have listened and we have acted, says Oceans and Fisheries Minister Rachel Brooking.

The Gulf is a taonga with deep rooted historical importance for tangata whenua, a vital part of our society and of our tourism, transport and seafood sectors, with an economic value of $100 billion. But its in trouble, and we have to strike the right balance between being able to use it, and making sure its healthy and available for our grandchildren.

At the moment, bottom-trawling and Danish seining are banned in just over a quarter of the Gulfs waters. Today, I am announcing options that would see this ban go from current protection levels, of just over a quarter, to up to nine-tenths.

The trawling ban was foreshadowed earlier this month when Prime Minister Chris Hipkins announced plans to create 19 new marine protection areas in the Gulf.

At the same time, I released the new Hauraki Gulf Fisheries Plan  the countrys first area-specific, ecologically based fisheries plan, says Brooking.

The plan overturns the presumption that bottom-trawling and Danish seining can be used everywhere except in specified areas.

Instead, they will be banned everywhere except in very specific and limited places, called trawl corridors, or Bottom Fishing Access Zones. Today Im announcing the options for those corridors and inviting people to have their say from tomorrow on which option they support, says Brooking.

The opening of public consultation on the trawl corridors comes as the Government prepares to debate the Hauraki Gulf/Tikapa Moana Marine Protection Bill in Parliament today for the first time.

This Bill triples the area in the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park under total protection, from just over 6 per cent to about 18 per cent, says Conservation Minister Willow-Jean Prime.

It extends existing marine reserves at Goat Island and Cathedral Cove and creates a new marine protection tool (high protection areas) that recognise kaitiakitanga and cultural practices of tangata whenua.

Brooking says banning bottom-trawling and Danish seining from the entire Gulf was considered, but there were concerns that boats would simply move to areas outside the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park, especially Northland and the Bay of Plenty, putting extra pressure on the fisheries in those areas.

The Revitalising the Gulf strategy, which looked at the recommendations of the Sea Change report, said it was better to base decisions on where trawling should be allowed on scientific evidence, and protect the benthic areas of the highest ecological significance while allowing trawling in corridors where the harm will be limited, Rachel Brooking said.

The wide-ranging restriction on bottom-trawling is just one of the actions the Government is taking to protect the Hauraki Gulf.

Sedimentation, nutrient run-off and climate change all threaten the health of the Gulf, says Brooking.

The resource management reforms we passed this month, along with new rules requiring farmers to manage their land better, give us the tools to help stop soils and fertilisers washing into the sea.

The latest improved safeguards for the Hauraki Gulf/Tikapa Moana follow extensive consultation with the people who use the Gulf or live close to it, with more than 10,000 submissions being made on the Hauraki Gulf Fisheries Plan, and more than 7500 on proposals to increase marine protection.

I urge everyone who cares about the future of this hugely important area to make submissions on the trawl corridor proposals.

Currently, 27 per cent of the Gulf is closed to bottom trawling and Danish seining.

Fisheries NZ commissioned the National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research (Niwa) to us a spatial planning tool called zonation and GIS (geographic information system) mapping to assess the waters of the Gulf and identify options for trawl corridors, based on areas with high fishing value, that at the same time minimised impacts on areas of high benthic biodiversity.

Submissions on the trawl corridor proposals open tomorrow and close on November 6.

Options being consulted on are:

Option 1: Danish seine fishing banned from 74.1 per cent and trawl fishing banned from 77.1 per cent of the Gulf shallower than 200m, with these fishing methods limited to 6 defined zones. Option 2: Trawl and Danish seine fishing banned from 79.4 per cent and trawl fishing banned from 82.4 per cent of the Gulf shallower than 200m, and limit these fishing methods to 5 defined zones. Option 3: Trawl and Danish seine fishing banned from 86.6 per cent and trawl fishing banned from 88.5 per cent of the Gulf shallower than 200m, and limit these fishing methods to 4 defined zones. Option 4: Danish seine fishing banned from 87.3 per cent and trawl fishing banned from 89 per cent of the Gulf shallower than 200m, and limit these fishing methods to 4 defined zones.

The future of bottom-fishing methods in the 3.4 per cent of the Gulf that is deeper than 200 metres will be assessed in a different process.

The Hauraki Gulf/Tikapa Moana Marine Protection Bill:

Extends the countrys first marine reserve, Cape Rodney  Okakari Point Marine Reserve (Goat Island) and Whanganui A Hei (Cathedral Cove) Marine Reserve, on the Coromandel Peninsula.
Families looking to attend the annual STEM Festival are being urged to book tickets now with organisers saying over 7000 of the 10,000 free tickets have already gone, just a few weeks out from the festival on Sunday, October 1.

Billed as the largest of its kind , and a blockbuster event for all ages, the highly interactive festival showcases opportunities and latest advancements in science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

Founder Tia Lush says families coming to this years festival are in for the most incredible day.

Every year we increase the range of offerings and this years line-up is so exciting. For the first time we will have a live stage show as part of the day with live science demos, giant drones and, if you're familiar with Boston Dynamics, a very famous four-legged robot!

STEMFest 2023 will also see NZ Fire & Emergency setting fire to a kitchen, an amazing new emergency response vehicle from St John, New Zealand's largest amateur rocket, a LEGO building area and interactive maths games.

Tia says they have been overwhelmed by the diversity and calibre of exhibitors this year and only have a few spaces left.

Our STEMFest exhibitors play the crucial role of inspiring, empowering and nurturing a new generation of young people and with the global shortage of people becoming scientists, technologists, engineers, and mathematicians, this is crucial.

Studies show that children have decided if STEM is for them by the time they are eight years old, so, if we leave engagement until secondary school, its too late.

We need to pique their interest through fun and learning so that we can inspire and nurture our next generation of leaders.

As a major event for the region, organisers are grateful once again to receive a major grant from the Tauranga Western Bay Community Event fund, continuing on its legacy as the biggest and best free community event in the region.

Hailed each year for delivering the unexpected and wowing the crowds, this years festival is billed as bigger and better again.

Over the past six years we have been rapidly growing the festival with more and more offerings.

This year we will have NASA Astronaut Colonel Nicole Mann broadcast a video where she will be answering questions submitted by young kiwi space enthusiasts,  says Tia,

So, anyone who would love to know just what its like to be an Astronaut can submit a question via our social media or website, and we will pose the questions for Nicole to answer. 

With many families travelling from Auckland, the Waikato and across the North and South Island to attend the event, the STEMFest organisers have also partnered with Tourism Bay of Plenty to offer a special prize pack for out of towners.

Were giving away a STEMFest package that includes a VIP Family Pass to the festival, 2 nights accommodation, a Tesla rental, dinner and hot pools voucher. To be in to win, anyone from out of town simply needs to visit t he STEMFest or Tourism Bay of Plenty Facebook pages or our website for details to enter. 

Tourism Bay of Plenty general manager Oscar Nathan says the festival is a welcome and unique feature in the regions annual events calendar.

We appreciate the way that STEMFest inspires young people to think about the essential careers that support the growth and prosperity of our region.

Its perfect timing, in the middle of the school holidays, and were sure that these out-of-town visitors will also take the time to explore other activities and attractions in the area, which will create a positive flow-on effect for our economy.

With tickets expected to sell out in the next couple of weeks Tia says theres one simple message to share.

Bring your kids along and inspire and excite New Zealands future problem solvers with some incredible hands-on experiments , we cant wait to see you, but you better be quick to get the last tickets available.

To book tickets visit https://www.taurangastemfestival.co.nz/
Creative Bay of Plenty is thrilled to announce the launch of its brand-new podcast, "Around The Table".

Hosted by artist and arts advocate, Kelcy Taratoa, the roundtable format facilitates conversations around the importance of the arts in New Zealand: for the wellbeing of our communities, for fostering innovation across all sectors, for supporting equity and diversity, for the enhancement of technological development, for raising environmental awarness, and much more.

"Kelcy Taratoa, a local artist with an unwavering commitment to the arts, is the perfect host to lead these dynamic conversations," says Creative Bay of Plenty comms and marketing lead Rose Treadwell.

"We believe that 'Around The Table' will provide a platform for thought-provoking dialogues that shed light on the transformative power of creativity."

The debut episode of "Around The Table" is an exploration into the revival of Tauranga's city centre, featuring Sonya Korohina, Director of Tauranga Art Gallery; Rachelle Duffy, the driving force behind Little Big Events and Our Place Magazine; and Greg McManus, Director of Museums.

"Listeners gain an exclusive glimpse into the minds of civic leaders who are actively shaping our city's future," explains Kelcy Taratoa.

"We are not just revitalising Tauranga; we are igniting a conversation that underscores the importance of transparent communication between leaders and the community they serve."

In a time when creative expression is more important than ever, "Around The Table" brings together creatives from across Aotearoa discuss topics ranging from the significance of the arts in our society to advocating for a more creative country.

Audiences can tune in to the podcast on all major streaming platforms, including Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Google Podcasts.

For more information, please visit www.creativebop.org.nz/around-the-table and join the conversation on social media using the hashtag #AroundTheTablePodcast.
China's top legislator calls for enhanced exchanges with Arab Parliament

Xinhua) 08:34, August 29, 2023

Zhao Leji, chairman of the National People's Congress (NPC) Standing Committee, holds talks with Adel Al Asoomi, speaker of the Arab Parliament, at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Aug. 28, 2023. (Xinhua/Liu Bin)

BEIJING, Aug. 28 (Xinhua) -- China's top legislator Zhao Leji held talks with Adel Al Asoomi, speaker of the Arab Parliament, on Monday in Beijing, calling for enhanced exchanges between the two legislative bodies.

Zhao, chairman of the National People's Congress (NPC) Standing Committee, said that under the strategic guidance of the leaders of China and Arab countries, China-Arab relations have achieved leapfrog development.

China stands ready to work with the Arab side to implement the outcomes of the first China-Arab States Summit, carry forward the spirit of China-Arab friendship featuring mutual assistance, equality, mutual benefit, inclusiveness, and mutual learning, and make every effort to build a China-Arab community with a shared future in the new era, Zhao said.

He pointed out that the two sides should continue to strengthen political mutual trust and always firmly support each other on issues concerning each other's core interests and major concerns, saying that China is willing to deepen practical cooperation with Arab countries and promote the Belt and Road cooperation.

It is hoped that the two sides will practice true multilateralism and jointly safeguard fairness and justice, Zhao said, adding that China stands ready to actively carry out cultural exchanges with Arab countries, implement the Global Civilization Initiative, expand exchanges in culture, education, and tourism, and consolidate popular support for friendly cooperation.

Zhao said that the establishment of an exchange mechanism between the NPC of China and the Arab Parliament would inject new impetus into the development of bilateral relations, and it is hoped that the two sides can enhance exchanges at all levels, exchange experience in human rights protection and legislative supervision, and strengthen coordination and cooperation in international and regional organizations.

Zhao said China respects and supports Arab countries in independently exploring their own path of modernization with their own characteristics and is willing to share development opportunities with Arab countries.

Adel Al Asoomi said Arab countries firmly abide by the one-China principle and support the Belt and Road Initiative, the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative, and the Global Civilization Initiative.

He said the Arab Parliament is willing to strengthen exchanges with the NPC of China and make positive legislative contributions to promoting the development of Arab-China relations and enhancing mutual learning among civilizations.

After the talks, Zhao and Adel Al Asoomi jointly signed a memorandum of understanding on establishing an exchange mechanism between the NPC of China and the Arab Parliament.

Zhao Leji, chairman of the National People's Congress (NPC) Standing Committee, and Adel Al Asoomi, speaker of the Arab Parliament, jointly sign a memorandum of understanding on establishing an exchange mechanism between the NPC of China and the Arab Parliament after their talks at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Aug. 28, 2023. (Xinhua/Liu Bin)

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
Hasan Zeynalov has been recalled from the post of Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Azerbaijan to Turkmenistan, Azernews reports.

In this regard, President Ilham Aliyev signed a corresponding decree.

In accordance with another order of the Head of state, Gismet Gezalov has been appointed the new Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Azerbaijan to Turkmenistan.
Progressive candidate Bernardo Arevalo was confirmed the winner of Guatemalas presidential election by the countrys Supreme Electoral Tribunal on Monday, but the same day another government body ordered his political party suspended. Arevalo has faced a slew of legal challenges and allegations of irregularities since his unexpected victory over a candidate favored by the countrys conservative elite.

Arevalo appears certain to take office as president on Jan. 14, but it was not clear whether his Seed Movement lawmakers would be able to take their seats in the countrys Congress.

Arevalo called the suspension ruling legally void and said his party would appeal it. As of this moment, no one can stop me from taking office on Jan. 14, he told a news conference.

The electoral registrys ruling arose from an investigation into the Seed Movement by Guatemalas attorney generals office for alleged irregularities in the gathering of signatures for its formation as a party.

If the Seed Party appeals the ruling, as promised, the case will be taken to the Supreme Electoral Tribunal. The Tribunal outranks the electoral registry, so the victory by Arevalo and the seats won in parliament by Seed Movement lawmakers in the first round elections appear confirmed. But the impact of the suspension of their party would have is unclear.

The announcements come after one of the most tumultuous elections in the Central American nations recent history, which has put to test Guatemalas democracy.

At a time when Guatemalans, hungry for change, have grown disillusioned with endemic corruption, Arevalo and other opponents of the countrys elite faced waves of judicial attacks in an attempt to knock them out of the race.

Arevalo, the little-known son of a former president, shocked much of the country by emerging as a top contender in the first round of presidential voting. He failed to get enough support to win outright and headed to a runoff vote against former first lady Sandra Torres. His rise had come after a handful of other candidates were disqualified.

Arevalo rapidly gained support, campaigning on social progress and railing against corruption.

This message generated, aroused hope, mobilized people who were fed up with corruption, he told the AP in a June interview.

Arevalo easily beat Torres in the Aug. 20 presidential runoff. According to the official count, the progressive candidate obtained 60.9% of the valid votes cast, against 37.2% for the right-wing Torres. The party also won 23 seats in the 160-seat Congress.

His win has been the source of a legal back-and-forth between various governmental entities and courts, some staffed with officials who have been sanctioned by the United States on charges of corruption. He has faced allegations of voter fraud by Torres, legal challenges and more.

Eight days after the runoff, Torres still hasnt conceded defeat and outgoing President Alejandro Giammattei hasnt said anything about the latest developments.

Its obviously another attempt to subvert Semillas (the Seed Movements) path to power, said Alex Papadovassilakis, a Guatemala-based investigator for InSight Crime focused on crime and corruption. I think were entering uncharted waters.

Arrest warrants for electoral officials and raids to the partys headquarters have also caused concern in the international community and among Guatemalans.

Earlier this week, the Organization of American States human rights commission asked that Guatemala provide protection for Arevalo after reports emerged of a possible plot to kill him.

Arevalos victory has left much of the countrys political establishment reeling, while his supporters have held protests against attempts to thwart his taking office.

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed concern about the attempts to undermine the results of Guatemalas presidential election, a U.N. spokeswoman said earlier.

The 64-year-old son of former President Juan Jose Arevalo was born in Uruguay, where his father was in exile following the ouster in a 1954 CIA-backed coup of his successor President Jacobo Arbenz, whom the U.S. saw as a threat during the Cold War.

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DEAR ABBY: I have had a wonderful relationship with my only grandson for nine years. Since I retired, he visits every other weekend, which makes me so happy. He has autism and didnt speak for the first six years, but now he talks constantly. Its wonderful. Im very close to my son as well.

I guess you know whats coming: My daughter-in-law cut my grandchild out of my life four months ago. She says he was molested in my care by my husband. I took my husband of 13 years, who has never been alone with my grandson, ever, to the police station. He passed all lie detector tests, and the police said they believe my husband.

READ MORE: Dear Abby: Parents need to back out of complicated high school romance

My grandson didnt say a word; only my DIL spoke. I had CPS come out and they did a thorough investigation. They said that, in their opinion, she was making this up. She hasnt spoken to her family in 12 years. She cuts everyone off if they upset her.

My grandson needs me. What can I do? My son says if I move and live next door to them, I can see him every day. But, I dont believe that would last either. Im sure she would just come up with something else. Any ideas? -- ACHING HEART IN TEXAS

DEAR ACHING HEART: If your son is suggesting that you move next door -- presumably without your husband -- it is a nonstarter. The person who could fix this is your son. Because the accusation your DIL made was groundless, your son should insist you have visitation with your grandson. However, if that doesnt happen, then remember Texas is a state in which grandparents DO have some rights. Therefore, it may benefit you to discuss this matter with an attorney specializing in family law.

** ** **

Dear Abby is written by Abigail Van Buren, also known as Jeanne Phillips, and was founded by her mother, Pauline Phillips. Contact Dear Abby at www.DearAbby.com or P.O. Box 69440, Los Angeles, CA 90069.

** ** **

For everything you need to know about wedding planning, order How to Have a Lovely Wedding. Send your name and mailing address, plus check or money order for $8 (U.S. funds) to: Dear Abby, Wedding Booklet, P.O. Box 447, Mount Morris, IL 61054-0447. (Shipping and handling are included in the price.)

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Stockbridge, N.Y.  A Madison County woman died Monday when her vehicle crossed into incoming traffic and collided head-on with a tractor-trailer, troopers said.

Killed in the crash was Debra L. Fowler, 72, of Munnsville.

Around 8:55 a.m., Fowler was driving south on West Road, just south of Peterboro Road, in the town of Stockbridge when she crossed over into the northbound lane, Trooper Jack Keller, a state police spokesman, said Tuesday.

Fowlers 2014 Toyota Yaris hit a 2022 Freightliner tractor-trailer, Keller said. The driver of the tractor-trailer, Kevin Fallon, 52, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, was injured in the crash.

Keller said Fowler was pronounced dead at the scene. The crash is still under investigation, he said.

Staff writer Darian Stevenson covers breaking news, crime and public safety. Have a tip, a story idea, a question or a comment? You can reach her at dstevenson@syracuse.com
Cicero, N.Y. -- An Ontario County man was arrested Monday after witnesses testifying against him in upcoming court proceedings said he violated orders of protection against him, troopers said.

Three witnesses reported Jeffery V. Kuney, 45, of Canandaigua, violated the orders of protection, according to a news release Monday from the State Police. Kuney was charged with third-degree tampering with a witness, a felony, and second-degree criminal contempt, a misdemeanor, troopers said.

The orders of protection were related to two previous arrests, troopers said.

On July 25, 2022, Kuney was charged with first-degree rape. On Aug. 24, 2022, Kuney was also charged with first-degree criminal sex act and third-degree criminal sale of controlled substance, both felonies, they said.

Troopers said Kuney was released on these charges from Ontario County Jail after he posted $50,000 bail.

On Monday, Kuney was found living on his boat in a marina on Oneida Lake, troopers said. Investigators issued a warrant for his arrest and Kuney was taken to Ontario County Jail for CAP arraignment, they said.

New York State Police encourage other victims or witnesses to contact them at (585)398-4100.

Staff writer Darian Stevenson covers breaking news, crime and public safety. Have a tip, a story idea, a question or a comment? You can reach her at dstevenson@syracuse.com
A Hollywood couple stopped by a Central New York coffee shop for a caffeine pick-me-up and some photos with fans.

Kevin Bacon and Kyra Sedgwick were spotted at Utica Coffee Roasting Company in Utica, N.Y., on Tuesday morning. So if you happened to be there, you just reduced your Six Degrees of Kevin Bacon number to one.

It might sound Crazy (stupid, love) but Kevin Bacon and his wife Kyra Sedgwick were (Foot) Loose in our cafe this morning!! It was a pleasure to meet these amazing and talented people! Heather Elias wrote on Utica Coffees official Facebook and Instagram pages said, along with a photo of the pair.

This provided photo shows famous actors Kyra Sedgwick, left, and Kevin Bacon, right, at Utica Coffee Roasting Company on Tuesday, Aug. 29, 2023.

Bacon is a Golden Globe Award-winning actor known for roles in Footloose, Crazy Stupid Love, Apollo 13, Mystic River, X-Men: First Class, Hollow Man, Wild Things, Tremors, A Few Good Men, JFK, Shes Having a Baby and Friday the 13th. He most recently played himself in the Guardians of the Galaxy Holiday Special.

Sedgwick is an Emmy-winning actress whose credits include The Closer, Phenomenon, Brooklyn Nine-Nine, Something to Talk About, Singles and Born on the Fourth of July. Her latest role is as Aunt Julia on The Summer I Turned Pretty season 2, currently streaming on Amazon.

Bacon and Sedgwick have been married for 35 years with two children. They have also co-starred in several films, including Loverboy, Murder in the First, and The Woodsman.

Its unclear why they were in Utica, but Bacon reportedly owns a property in Upstate New York and is a member of the Adirondack League Club in Old Forge. He and his brother Michael Bacon, who perform music together as the Bacon Brothers, also paid tribute to the region with the song My Adirondack Home.

The Bacon Brothers have performed in Central New York several times over the years, and their upcoming tour dates include a Nov. 17 concert at The Egg in Albany.
Syracuses ArtRage Gallery was named one of seven best art galleries in New York State by the website Best Things New York. ArtRage Gallery is joined by six other galleries across the state whose locations include New York City, the Hudson Valley, Rochester and Buffalo. ArtRage Gallery, located at 505 Hawley Avenue in Syracuse opened its doors 15 years ago, making it one of Syracuses longest running independent art galleries in operation today.

As Best Things New York states, ArtRage is, dedicated to making art accessible to all. They specialize in breaking down the traditional boundaries of the art world, they are passionate about giving everyone the right to experience the joy of art. Unique to this list of seven must-see galleries is ArtRage Gallerys mission to exhibit art with social justice and environmental themes.

On Sept. 9, ArtRage is kicking off its 16th exhibition season with an exhibit that has a special Syracuse connection. ArtRage will be exhibiting Helen Zughaibs Stories My Father Told Me: Memories of a Childhood in Syria and Lebanon. Zughaib is an 1981 alumni of Syracuses Universitys College of Visual and Performing Arts and is now known as one of the worlds best loved Arab American artists. On exhibition at ArtRage will be her series of 25 gouache paintings, each illustrating a story as told by her father, Elia Zughaib. In 1946, Elia Zughaib came to America to study at Syracuse University. He received his PhD in Political Science from the Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs. Helen Zughaib will be in attendance at the opening reception on Saturday, Sept. 9 from 6-8 p.m.

Beginning September 9th, ArtRage Gallery is free and open to the public, Wednesday-Friday 2-6 p.m. and Saturday noon-4 p.m. Information about evening events can be found at www.artragegallery.org.
Yevhen Borisov, head of the Odesa military recruitment office, at a trial in Kyiv on July 25. Global Images Ukraine (Global Images Ukraine via Getty )

The flag of the European Union flies over many buildings in free Ukraine: town halls, schools, and businesses. It was also raised in the center of Kherson in November 2022, when Ukrainian forces liberated the city from its Russian occupiers. The blue standard and 12 gold stars that represent the EU are symbolic of a better future for the overwhelming majority of Ukrainians, polls reiterate. Charles Michel has set a date for what has long been a dream to become reality, in his words: 2030 is the deadline the president of the European Council has earmarked for tackling the oft-announced enlargement of the EU.

That gives Ukraine seven years to carry out the profound reforms that should guarantee it access to the union. However, doing so presents a colossal challenge for a country in the middle of the bloodiest full-scale war in decades, with about 20% of its territory in the hands of the Russian Army and Kyiv dependent on international aid. The European Commission puts the figure that the EU and its member states have provided to Ukraine at 65 billion ($70 billion). The United States alone has approved a series of aid packages valued at $112 billion. But the Russian invasion also hastened the EUs recognition of Ukraine as a candidate for membership in June 2022, a goal the country has demanded at various times over the three decades since its independence.

The European Commission set out seven points that Ukraine must meet in order to start accession negotiations. Kyivs goal was to meet these requirements by 2023, but Deputy Prime Minister for European and Euro-Atlantic integration Olga Stefanishina admitted on August 17 that they would not succeed. Ukrainian Prime Minister Denis Shmihal said in January that he aspired to gain EU membership in two years, but the reality is more complex: on June 22, the European Commissioner for Neighborhood and Enlargement, Oliver Varhelyi, warned that Ukraine had only fulfilled two of the seven requirements for negotiations to begin.

These two points are linked to legal reforms promoted by President Volodymyr Zelenskiy. On the one hand, Varhelyi remarked that the new law regulating the media market complies with EU standards, especially the obligation for media companies to declare who their owners are in order to reduce the power of the oligarchs.

Brussels welcomed the law, but organizations defending the right to freedom of information have criticized it. The International Federation of Journalists, the European Federation of Journalists and the Independent Media Trade Union of Ukraine have warned that the law hands significant power to the sectors regulatory body  which depends on the government  to close media outlets that endanger state security, among other conditions to be assessed by this body. Media outlets critical of Zelenskiy, such as Pravda, have also pointed out that private television groups close to the presidency are receiving favored treatment.

The European Commission is also satisfied with the reform of the High Council of Justice of Ukraine, which gives it more independence, and of the Selection Commission for the High Qualification Commission of Judges, which is working on a merit-based selection system. Varhely also acknowledged there has been progress in introducing rules to ensure the independence of the Constitutional Court.

But the road to consolidating a separation of powers and a fully democratic judiciary is cumbersome, as evidenced by the long time it took Zelenskiy  over two years  to appoint an anti-corruption prosecutor in 2022, or the arrest last May of the president of the Supreme Court, Vsevolod Knyazev, on accusations of receiving a bribe of 2.5 million to hand down a sentence in favor of the oligarch Kostyantyn Zhevago.

Wartime corruption as treason

The fight against corruption is one of the points that the Commission highlights where Ukraine still has a lot of room for improvement. Cases are occurring on a monthly basis. In August, Zelenskiy relieved all the heads of the provincial military recruitment offices in the face of accumulating evidence of fraudulent recruitment procedures. The president announced Sunday in a televised interview that he would propose to the Rada  the Ukrainian parliament  that it pass a law equating wartime corruption with treason.

Other demands on which Ukraine needs to make progress are money laundering and reform of the oligarchs system of power. After the disintegration of the Soviet Union, a legal and political power vacuum occurred in which major public industrial assets passed into the hands of a few businessmen. These individuals continue to have a decisive influence on the development of Ukrainian business and political life. In an interview Monday with EL PAIS, Mark Savchuk, an advisor to the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine, warned that despite evident improvements since 2014, the level of corruption remains very high and the country is a long way from meeting EU standards.

One of the most sensitive points that Brussels demands of Kyiv  and where it perceives the least progress  is in respect for ethnic minorities and above all, the use of their languages. These minorities include, among others, the Hungarian groups in the Transcarpathian region, Romani, Jews, Romanians, and Tatars, as well as the countrys Belarusian population and those who speak Russian, a language which, despite its widespread use, is not recognized as an official one in Ukraine. Russias invasion has further complicated the situation.

Michel said in his speech Monday that the most difficult thing about EU enlargement is for citizens to feel the Union in their hearts. In Ukraine, this is a major challenge. In a report published last February by EL PAIS, leading Ukrainian experts stressed that the countrys Soviet past and decades of unsuccessful negotiations for Kyiv to become closer to Brussels have left the majority of the population feeling far from European. Another major obstacle will be, as Michel has indicated, that EU membership of candidates such as Ukraine will force countries that are currently net beneficiaries of EU economic funds to cease to be so. Poland, a faithful ally of Ukraine in military matters, has defended tooth and nail the application of tariffs on agricultural products from its neighbor, ignoring the European Commissions requests to the contrary.

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Join NY Cannabis Insider for our next full-day conference on Sept. 21 at the Pearl Street Grill & Brewery in Buffalo. Tickets will sell out.

In the latest blow to New Yorks nascent legal cannabis industry, an Ulster County judge said he will not exempt any Conditional Adult-Use Retail Dispensary licensees from an injunction he issued on Aug. 18 because the Office of Cannabis Management failed to comply with a court order.

It is clear to this Court upon review of the affidavits that OCM failed to comply with this Courts Order regarding exemptions to the injunction, Judge Kevin Bryant wrote in a decision filed Monday.



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The decision came as part of a lawsuit brought against the state by four service-disabled veterans who intend to apply for dispensary licenses. The veterans were later joined by the Coalition for Access to Regulated & Safe Cannabis  a group representing some of New Yorks medical cannabis companies that is also suing the OCM in a separate case.

Plaintiffs allege that the OCM and Cannabis Control Board violated the Marijuana Regulation and Taxation Act by opening up retail dispensary license applications for a select group of people  justice-involved individuals who own a profitable qualifying business  instead of opening applications up for everyone at the same time.

On Aug. 7, Bryant issued an injunction preventing the OCM from allowing any more CAURD businesses to open.

Bryant later filed an order that said licensees who met all approvals before Aug. 7, 2023, would be allowed to open their stores. The order also said that the court may allow other CAURD dispensaries to open on a case-by-case basis, if state officials request permission from the judge.

The OCM and CCB appealed Bryants decision on Aug. 24.

In a hearing at Ulster County Courthouse last Friday, Bryant appeared to exempt at least 23 of 30 CAURD businesses that OCM officials said met the judges requirements. Plaintiffs in the case objected to the exemption on Friday, citing discrepancies in the list of 30 businesses:

The affidavit of Patrick Mckeage [OCMs First Deputy Director] that Defendants filed this afternoon  raises real questions about whether the thirty CAURD applicants on the List  in fact met all requirements for licensing, as required by the Courts August 18, 2023 order.

Bryant agreed with the plaintiffs on Monday.

It is not clear to this Court whether any of the thirty identified licensees have completed all post-selection requirements and inspections and it should be clear that those who have not, should not have been included on the list submitted to the Court as set forth in the prior Order, Bryant wrote.

He said from now on, the court will accept case-by-case requests for exemption, and will rule on each promptly. The judge also called out attorneys representing the state for the list they presented.

Under the circumstances, given the conflicting information contained in the affidavits, absent further detailed information from OCM, this Court will not lift the injunction regarding any of the identified licensees, Bryant said.

The court directs OCM to submit supporting underlying documentation to accompany any further submission regarding exemptions to the injunction.

The news on Tuesday was a blow to Ryan Martin, whose business was the only Finger Lakes-based CAURD on the list of licensees who should be exempted from the injunction.

Martin said he was cautiously optimistic when the OCM included his business on the exemption list. Tuesdays decision represented yet another obstacle that will slow down progress at the dispensary he wanted to open next month.

Its just really frustrating to try to do the right thing the right way, and just have all these roadblocks, Martin said, adding that state legislators could have avoided the entire injunction if theyd codified CAURD into law, as they did for conditional cultivation and conditional processing licenses.

Martin also questioned the motives of defendants in the case, especially the medical companies that will likely be able to join New Yorks adult-use market later this year.

Wheres all the money coming from, Martin asked. Why is the cannabis industry being held up so long?

To date, there are 463 CAURD licensees across New York State but only 17 open and operating brick-and-mortar dispensaries.
Join NY Cannabis Insider for our next full-day conference on Sept. 21 at the Pearl Street Grill & Brewery in Buffalo. Tickets will sell out.

Melissa Moore is coordinator of the Horticulture Department and a cannabis instructor at Niagara County Community College. In the newest entry of NYs women in cannabis, Moore talks about standing tall in a male-dominated field; what advice shed give her younger self; and ways we can reimagine leadership stereotypes.

Women are vastly underrepresented in cannabis, and not just in New York. From 2019 to 2022, executive-level females have seen their industry wide status drop from 37% to 23%. Yet the MRTA makes things very clear: women-owned businesses are a key component of the states social and economic equity plan.

NY Cannabis Insider is seeking to elevate women in cannabis through a hyper-focus on female story sourcing and balanced representation in articles.

This series will last for as long as submissions come in.



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Why did you launch your career in the cannabis industry? Were there any women who inspired you to do so? How did you do it?

I launched my career in the cannabis industry because I was inspired by people healing themselves with cannabis. Almost 20 years ago, I watched a very good friend help her mother beat cancer with the use of cannabis, and since then I have watched multiple people get their life back using cannabis as a medicine.

Living in the Emerald Triangle in Northern California is how I entered the cannabis industry. I spent years studying the research from experts and attending conferences throughout the US.

What do you think is the most significant barrier to women leadership? Are the barriers different in cannabis than any other industry?

I feel that the most significant barrier to womens leadership is getting males to respect your knowledge. Often, it is a male that will do his best to try to discount my expertise and the information that I am sharing. The cultivation industry is dominated by males. This can lead to some males thinking that I have no experience in the industry, when in reality, I have been growing cannabis in home and commercial settings since 2004. Along with another woman, I grew around nine acres of organic crops and brought them to market for almost a decade, and I have a bachelors in biology from Keuka College and a masters in engineering from the University at Buffalo.

Why do you think women are so underrepresented in leadership roles in cannabis?

I think it is because the cannabis industry can be very competitive and the pride in growing your own product can create a defensive position. Women are taught to be submissive and have trouble pushing against the defensive and ego-filled role that some men take on.

What are some ways in which companies can support gender diversity at senior levels?

By honoring female scholars and partnerships that have men and women sharing the leading role. We still think of women as being supporting roles, but the more we are told that women make great leaders, the more we will be comfortable with the idea, and not default to imagining a male in a leadership role.

Shout out your other favorite women-owned or women-led businesses in the industry.

Green Philosophy 716, Sativa Remedy, Bonnie Goldstein MD, and Mara Gordon.

Who/what are your favorite tools and resources in the industry?

Ed Rosenthal, Martin Lee, The research and publications from Ethan Russo, Bonnie Goldstein, Dustin Sulak, Raphael Mechoulam, Karl Hillig, and John McPartland.

What advice would you give your 25-year-old self? What advice would you give to the next generation of women leaders?

Advice to 25-year-old me: Stop letting males keep you in supportive roles, stand tall and take the leading role, dont wait for them to ask you to do it, just do it.

Advice to the next generation: The only barriers are the ones you keep in front of you. If you want it, take the steps and do the work to make it happen, because no matter how obscure the idea is, you can make it happen. Take action.

If youd like people to connect with you, please share your favorite methods of contact.

Email: mmoore@niagaracc.suny.edu; LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/707melissa-moore
Lyons, N.Y.  A 1-year-old girl was brought to an Upstate New York hospital with serious injuries her caregivers claimed happened when she fell out of a crib, troopers said.

Instead, investigators determined the young toddler had been assaulted by her mothers boyfriend, troopers said.

The caregivers  Terrell Martinez and Morgan Pentycofe, of Lyons  were arrested Thursday by the New York State Police and charged with assault. Martinez has been charged with seriously injuring the 1-year-old girl. Because she was present when the attack happened, Pentycofe, the girls mother, was also charged with assault.

The 1-year-old was assaulted by Martinez on Aug. 12 in the couples Canal Street home in Lyons, Wayne County, troopers said. The attack left the girl with serious bodily injuries to her head and extremities, troopers said.

This incident occurred while under the direct care and supervision of the mother and her boyfriend, troopers said.

The injured child was initially brought to Newark-Wayne Community Hospital in Newark before she was transferred by ambulance to Strong Memorial Hospital in Rochester. An update on her condition was not immediately available.

Martinez and Pentycofe have been charged with two counts of second-degree assault, a felony. Both have been released from custody.

READ MORE

Man found in Cicero violated orders of protection against witnesses in rape case, troopers say

CNY shop owner accused of illicit weed sales: Its illegal search and seizure

Person dressed as a cowboy with fake gun caused evacuation at CNY Walmart

Woman attacks cars with meat cleaver in Central NY store parking lot: Police
By Joshua Solomon | Times Union, Albany

Albany, N.Y.  The Biden administration on Sunday pushed back on Gov. Kathy Hochuls public plea for the federal government to expedite work authorizations for migrants, casting blame for the crisis at Republicans in Congress and highlighting dozens of what they view as breakdowns in New York Citys handling of the migrant surge.

The pushback on Hochuls requests to the Biden administration were outlined in a letter sent to Hochul and New York Mayor Eric Adams by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. The contents of the letter were first reported by Politico.

It came three days after Hochul had urged the president, a fellow Democrat, to provide more assistance with the flood of migrants that led her to declare a state of emergency in May. She had announced her pleas during a live-stream address and noted the letter she had just sent to Biden.

Our quest continues to squarely tell the White House: Let them work, Hochul said on Thursday.

The issue, in part, stems from federal regulations that do not immediately allow migrants who have applied for asylum to begin working. The often months-long delays or more for that work authorization place more stress on communities that are providing shelter and other support for tens of thousands of migrants across New York.

Hochuls office last week followed up her address by pushing out statements from dozens of lawmakers, business leaders, labor union officials and advocates who supported her call for the federal government to provide more help. The response from the Biden administration to New York is that the administrations of Adams and Hochul have more work to do.

Representatives of the three administrations were supposed to meet on Monday to discuss the issue, according to the letters.

While details of the meeting were not disclosed by any of the sides by late afternoon Monday, an Adams spokeswoman said the conversation did not address the situation on the ground where thousands of asylum seekers continue to arrive in our city with no end in sight.

The federal agencys letter outlined what it views as structural and operational issues in the citys response to the crisis. The concerns include insufficient case management, an issue the Times Union recently reported has led to delays in assisting migrants filing paperwork to apply for asylum.

An assessment team from Homeland Security visited shelters in New York City over a four-day span earlier this month, which also included 18 engagements in the city, according to the letter, which was signed by Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro N. Mayorkas.

Among the recommendations that followed the agencys visit: improve information collection at intake and while migrants are residing in shelters; improve communication with migrants to help them through the process of obtaining work authorization and exiting the citys shelters, and build and focus on better case management, including more legal services at multiple shelter locations, according to an agency spokeswoman.

The Times Union reported Sunday that asylum applications have lagged as migrants have received sparse legal services, especially upstate.

The legal services are in line with a state regulation for shelters, which requires providers to evaluate their needs when they enter a shelter and then develop a plan to help them exit. By seeking asylum, a migrant can find out whether they can obtain working papers, which can allow them to get a job that may pay them a living wage to help them live on their own.

State and city officials overseeing shelters declined to comment last week on whether they are following the regulation that calls for then to conduct needs assessments and develop independent living plans. Instead, officials have emphasized a need to address more immediate issues, including making sure people are housed and fed.

Technically, should the new arrivals coming into the (New York City) DHS system be going through needs assessment and ILP screening at the beginning  yes, said Dave Giffen, executive director at the Coalition for the Homeless. Is it happening? No.

The agency was recently dinged by the state comptrollers office in an audit for failing to ensure compliance with its homeless shelter regulations on providing needs assessments and independent living plans. That gap occurred more than a third of the time between January 2018 and October.

This, in turn, impacts the timeliness of when clients begin to receive services and support aimed at helping them exit the shelter and return to self-sufficiency, the audit states.

Although the letter from the Biden administration pushes back on requests by Hochul and highlights issues with Adams response to the crisis, the federal agency also issued a statement, attributable to an unnamed spokeswoman, that commends the New York response.

The team was impressed with the exceptional efforts by New York officials under the ongoing strain of accepting a large number of migrants, the unnamed spokeswoman said in a statement.

The agency continues to collaborate with city and state officials, along with our federal partners, to identify ways we can maximize the value of our continued partnership to address, in a humane and orderly manner, the needs of migrants who have arrived in New York, according to the spokeswoman.

The agency has allocated $140 million to New York for the crisis. City and state officials expected the federal government to pick up about one-third of the multi-billion dollar tab to handle the crisis in the longterm  an estimate that was included in the state budget this year.

The Biden administration notes it is continuing to call on Congress to pass changes to the nations immigration laws.

We continue, unfortunately, to work within statutory constraints that do not ably serve our nations labor needs, Mayorkas states in the letter.

Avi Small, a spokesman for the governor, said that as Hochul has repeatedly said, this crisis will only abate once the federal government takes action on work authorization that allows migrants to be resettled permanently, and we are grateful to the Department of Homeland Security for todays informative briefing.

Kayla Mamelak, a spokeswoman for Adams office, issued a terse statement Monday in response to the federal letter.

New York City has led the nation in handling this humanitarian crisis for more than a year, and we are grateful that our federal partners are now engaging in a collaborative process, Mamelak said. But New Yorkers deserve the facts, so lets be clear: Our requests from the federal government remain the same, and quite frankly, unaddressed.

There has also been fingerpointing between the administrations of Hochul and Adams.

Hochuls office, through a private law firm, sent a letter to Adams administration earlier this month detailing what it views as failures of New York City officials to adequately help migrants seek asylum.

The city can and should do more to act in a proactive and collaborative manner with the state, Faith E. Gay, an attorney with the firm Selendy Gay Elsberg, wrote in the letter.

The letter pointed to similar concerns detailed in the Biden administrations letter. Hochul also recently announced $20 million to assist with casework, an increase from the states initial $10 million commitment.

There are more people than there were before, Hochul said when asked by a reporter last week about the timing of the funding. The scale has become really overwhelming.

The state is also planning to link migrants who have received their working papers with employers that can match their skills, through a new state Department of Labor program. Out of the 100,000 to arrive in New York City, a small number have applied for asylum, according to state Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services Commissioner Jackie Bray.

But Bray noted 2,600 have filed for asylum in the last six weeks since the city began more robust legal services and casework. A U.S. Department of Homeland Security spokeswoman declined to provide numbers on the asylum cases filed in federal courts in recent months.

Migrants staying in a hotel in Colonie reported they had received no legal services in the two months they have been staying there with the oversight of DocGo, a for-profit, publicly traded company.

An advocate with ties to a shelter being run out of another hotel in Rotterdam, Bill Sherman, with Allies for Justice of Schenectady County, recently said, were not aware of one person getting legal support.

___

(c)2023 the Times Union (Albany, N.Y.)

Visit the Times Union (Albany, N.Y.) at www.timesunion.com
There was a time when State Fair and Spiedie seem to go hand-in-hand.

The sandwich made with meat marinated in a special sauce was once served at stands across the New York State Fair. One company, Salamida, had a fair stand serving nothing but spiedies for years and even launched a bottled version of State Fair Spiedie Sauce that can still be found on store shelves (and at the fair) today.

Yes, there used to be spiedies all over the fair, said former state fair director Troy Waffner, who continues his association with the fair by helping run The West End, a food stand operated by his wife Susan and her family. Now, its hard to find.

Syracuse.com spent several days combing the fairgrounds since Opening Day on Aug. 23 and has found just one stand that still serves a spiedie. Tommy Cs, in the Colonnade near Chevy Court, offers a Chicken Spiedie for $10.

Tommy Cs sign, which spells it speidie, also contains the word Wow! The sandwich, served on a hoagie bun, uses shredded chicken rather than the more traditional chunks, but has the tang and spice of the original Salamida sauce.

And the spiedie is just one of many items on the Tommy Cs menu, not the main food attraction.

It is a big seller, very popular, said Ian Duquette, a manager of the stand, who said he was not aware that Tommy Cs had the only spiedie at the fair. Maybe not the most popular, but its up there.

Spiedies (pronounced SPEE-dees) are a delicacy that originated in the Triple Cities area (Binghamton, Johnson City and Endicott). Theyre essentially chunks of meat  traditionally lamb, but quite often pork and chicken  cut roughly into one-inch cubes and marinated in a special sauce for 24 hours or more. The marinated meat is then roasted on skewers over a grill and then served on a slice of bread or on a sub roll.

The spiedie first came to the state fair in 1971, when 19-year-old Rob Salamida of Endwell near Binghamton opened a stand selling his familys version. The bottled sauce launched in 1975. The Salamida stand lasted at the fair until 1984.

In recent years, many of the remaining stands that had served spieidies have either closed or dropped them.

The International Spiedies and Paninis stand in The Eatery (formerly the International Building), hasnt been back since 2019. Carrs Cove in the Horticulture Building, which served a unique take on the spiedie using kangaroo meat, is still open but not doing the sandwich.

Weve downsized a bit this year, said Carrs Cove operator Bernie Mahoney, Jr. Maybe next year. Well see.

Salamida State Fair Spiedie Sauce and spiedie-flavored New York chips can be found in the Taste New York booth in the Horticulture Building at the New York State Fair. (Don Cazentre)

And while theres only one stand still serving the sandwich, the spiedie tradition also continues at the Taste New York location inside the Horticulture Building. Bottles of Salamida State Fair Spiedie Sauce are for sale, along with Spiedie sauce-flavored potato chips, made by a company called Marquart Farms / New York Chips in Wyoming County.

From his familys Country Corner food stand in The Eatery building, Patrick Reeves points to a spot across the aisle. Thats where the International Speidies and Paninis stand once stood.

Weve been thinking, if there werent any spiedies at the fair, we might have to open a stand for them, Reeves said. I mean, youve got to have spiedies at the fair, right?

Don Cazentre writes for NYup.com, syracuse.com and The Post-Standard. Reach him at dcazentre@nyup.com, or follow him at NYup.com, on Twitter or Facebook.
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As recently as the early 1800s, thousands of Seychelles paradise flycatcher birds lived on at least five islands off the southeast coast of Africa. By the 1960s, just 28 of the winged creatures were left and all lived on one island, La Digue. The small black birds, which feed on insects and spiders, were devastated by habitat loss, invasive species and hunting in the 19th and 20th centuries.

In recent years, as local conservation efforts have improved, the numbers have risen and La Digue is now home to more than 250 Seychelles paradise flycatchers. Whats more, a viable breeding population has been established on another island and work is underway to introduce the bird to a third one in the archipelago. Although the forest-dwelling birds are no longer considered critically endangered, the crash of their population has vastly reduced its genetic diversity.

The question is: how did this species manage to not go extinct despite having this massive loss of genetic diversity? said Hernan Morales, an evolutionary biologist at the University of Copenhagen in Denmark.

Biodiversity protection has shot up the EU agenda amid growing warnings that the world is undergoing a sixth mass extinction. Unlike the five earlier die-offs, including the most recent one 65 million years ago that killed off dinosaurs, the current mass extinction is driven primarily by human activity including land, water and energy use and pollution.

With the viability of whole ecosystems and animal species including humanity at stake, genomics has gained importance in assessing biodiversity and pursuing conservation.

Morales led a project that received EU funding to compare historic and modern genomes of Seychelles paradise flycatchers. It came to a startling conclusion: the birds suffered a 90% loss in their genetic diversity. The initiative, called GENDANGERED, ran for two years through May 2022.

Past and current specimens

Morales specialises in evolutionary genomics. This field typically involves looking at modern genomes  the complete set of genetic material in an organism  and using the information to draw conclusions about what happened to species in the past.

In GENDANGERED, he opted for a different approach: comparing historic genomes from specimens in museum collections across Europe with ones from current populations. The work covered 12 bird species  including the Seychelles paradise flycatcher  that have suffered a rapid fall in their numbers. The museum samples were more than 100 years old and represented the pre-collapse state of the populations, according to Morales.

This information was used to create computer models that simulated how the genetic diversity of those species and their populations had changed over time. There have never been huge numbers of Seychelles paradise flycatchers and the work on the museum material showed that they have always had low genetic diversity compared with other bird species.

Diversity dilemma

One of Moraless findings is counterintuitive: the species survived its population collapse as result of the relatively low genetic diversity. To understand how this was possible  and why it marks both good and bad news for Seychelles paradise flycatchers  requires knowing two things.

First, genetic variation can have a positive, negative or neutral effect on a population. Second, Moraless research showed that population crashes tend to increase negative genes, reducing genetic health, because inbreeding  mating between very close relatives  increases. As a result, in animals like the Seychelles paradise flycatcher with low genetic diversity to begin with, there are fewer negative genes to be amplified when population numbers plunge.

While this factor helped prevent the bird from going extinct, it isnt good news in the long term. Thats because, while negative genes increase in population crashes, positive and neutral genes often decline. These genes, particularly the neutral ones, are important. They provide variation that helps species adapt to future challenges like environmental change and disease. The loss of such genes can be particularly dramatic in animals with initially low diversity such as Seychelles paradise flycatchers.

Now that they have very little variation left, we predict they will have a very rough time adapting to future environments, Morales said.

Conservation benefits

Larger populations with more genetic diversity face a different dilemma. While Seychelles paradise flycatchers survived the plunge in their numbers because of low genetic diversity, Morales found that the risk of extinction for bigger, more diverse species occurs in the population drop itself. The reason is that they have a much larger increase in negative genes during the population collapse and, as a result, are exposed to more harmful genetic variation.

These findings can bolster conservation efforts by showing whether species need more help during a population crash or afterwards, according to Morales. For example, the insights could prevent wildlife organisations categorizing species like the Seychelles paradise flycatcher as doing well when they are in fact still at risk as a result of the erosion of their genetic diversity.

Ape discoveries

Genomics and historic samples can also be used to discover extinct species, which in turn can improve understanding of modern-day animals including where they live.

Tomas Marques Bonet leads the EU-funded ApeGenomeDiversity project comparing samples from modern day-apes with historic specimens from museums across Europe. The five-year initiative runs through May 2025. The goal is to find new species of apes that are now extinct but bred with current species in the past, said Marques Bonet, a genomics expert at Pompeu Fabra University in Barcelona, Spain.

The research could ultimately help protect modern apes from human hunters and collectors. Every year thousands of apes are killed for bush meat or captured for the exotic pet trade. The genetic data could show where these apes were living when they were killed or captured. The team is working with a primates conservation organisation called the Pan-African Sanctuary Alliance to create a genetic atlas so that the origins of illegally trafficked apes can be determined. Anti-poaching efforts could then be directed towards these locations.

Leftover samples

To expand their knowledge of ape genomes, Marques Bonet and his colleagues have been using samples collected from ape excrement. Such a non-invasive method has enabled them to collect many more samples than would otherwise be possible and to link genetics with location.

We can clearly identify chimpanzees that belong to the northern distribution in a country or the southern distribution, Marques Bonet said. As was the case with GENDANGERED, the museum specimens in ApeGenomeDiversity are at least 100 years old and represent more genetically diverse populations.

All this information will help scientists understand the origins and dynamics of genomic variants in living apes and how these factors contribute to the genetic landscape of modern-day populations. Because apes are the closest living relatives to people, the data could even expand knowledge of humankinds own genome.

Research in this article was funded by the EU via the European Research Council (ERC) and the Marie Skodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA).

This article was originally published in Horizon, the European Union Magazine for Research and Innovation.




New Forestry Forwarder Training Course Launched

Cavan and Monaghan Education and Training Board (CMETB), in conjunction with Teagasc Ballyhaise Agricultural College, has launched a new forestry forwarder training course.

Pictured from left to right at the launch of the Forestry Forwarder Training Course are: Sinead McKenna, Training Services Manager, CMETB; Marianne Lyons, Assistant Principal, Ballyhaise Agricultural College; John Kelly, Principal, Ballyhaise Agricultural College; Dr Fiona McGrath, Chief Executive, CMETB; Cllr. Carmel Brady, Chair, CMETB Board; Eileen Roddy, Workforce Development Officer, CMETB; Dr Linda Pinkster, Director of FET, CMETB; Dr Anne-Marie Butler, Teagasc Head of Education; and Joe McGrath, Chair, CMETB FET Board.

The course is supported by Skills to Advance, a national initiative by SOLAS, that provides upskilling and reskilling opportunities to employees in jobs, as well as equipping them with the skills they need to progress in their current role or to adapt to changing technologies.

Forestry forwarders are specialised machines that are used to collect cut lengths of timber and transport them from the forest to a roadside stacking area on harvesting sites. Forwarder operators manoeuvre through the forest following the route of the harvester, extracting felled timber to the loading area before arranging log assortments for collection. Forwarder machine operators are required to have a broad technical ability and knowledge alongside safety, environmental and organisational skills.

At the launch, Dr Anne-Marie Butler, Teagasc Head of Education, outlined how staff in Ballyhaise Agricultural College have worked closely with forestry harvesting contractors in recent years and together, they have identified skills gaps and the need to invest in their workforce by providing education and training to staff.

Furthermore, Dr Butler reminded those present that the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine has supported this area of training by funding the development of the course content and the purchase of a simulator, which is a key component of delivering the course.

Speaking at the launch of the new course, CMETB Chief Executive, Dr Fiona McGrath said: CMETB work with industry to provide courses relevant to the needs of employers. CMETB met with the forestry-harvesting contractors and identified that the Skills to Advance programme was ideal to meet the skills gap that employees have in the forestry-harvesting sector. We have signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Teagasc that ensures the skills, expertise and knowledge of both organisations are utilised in delivering this training programme.

Employees enrolling on the course will receive training using the forwarder simulator at Ballyhaise Agricultural College. They will attend one day per week via face-to-face and online classes in college, along with completing industry visits relevant to the course. They should also be participating in on the job learning on these machines facilitated by their employers to ensure they become proficient operators during the timeframe of the course. On successful completion, employees will receive a QQI level 5 certificate.

The launch of this course was hosted by Coillte on one of its active sites in Co. Laois, with both a harvester and forwarder on display. Coillte, Irelands semi-state forestry company, will support the forwarder course by providing working sites for field trips that are scheduled throughout the course.

Eamonn Kenny, Operations Director at Coillte, explained that the harvesting industry needs employees that are certified with up-to-date skills to work in this sector, he said: As well as being competent at operating these machines, employees must have in-depth awareness of health and safety and protection of the environment to ensure that harvesting operations are effectively carried out.

This training programme is subsidised through the Skills to Advance initiative. Companies can receive a subsidy of up to 100% towards the cost of the training programme. The level of subsidy is in the form of state aid and depends on various factors relating to your company. The ETB advise you on this contribution which may result in no fees.

For more information, please contact Ballyhaise Agricultural College on Tel: 049-4338108 or Email: ballyhaisecollege@teagasc.ie
Rates for cyber insurance policies continue to rise while a growing number of exclusions are shrinking whats covered by them, according to a report released Tuesday by a cybersecurity company.

Nearly four out of five (79%) of the more than 300 organizations in the United States surveyed by Censuswide for privileged access management provider Delinea saw their insurance costs increase, while more than two-thirds (67%) noted their cyber insurance premiums had increased 50% to 100% when they applied for or renewed their policies this year.

Over the past year, its become evident that cyber insurers are learning from their data and are now maturing, Delinea Chief Security Scientist and Advisory CISO Joseph Carson said in a statement.

He explained that in the early days of cyber insurance, insurers were just trying to address a huge demand, but now they realize they must reduce their exposure to both avoidable and uncontrollable circumstances.

Our survey results find that most organizations are not approaching cyber insurance with the same diligence  they are simply looking to get covered, he continued. What theyre not checking is whether the policy they had last year is what they need now or if their policy changed at renewal.

This cyber insurance gap could put a lot of organizations in a tough place when a cybersecurity incident occurs, and they want to utilize this financial safety net, he added.

Risk assessment and cyber insurance will always be in flux, the same way threat vectors evolve, explained Bud Broomhead, CEO of Viakoo, a provider of automated IoT cyber hygiene in Mountain View, Calif.

Recent changes such as the shift of threat actors exploiting vulnerable IoT/OT devices and more open source vulnerabilities are driving insurers to adapt their risk models and to also impose conditions on the insured, such as requiring automated cyber hygiene for non-IT devices and systems, he told TechNewsWorld.

Exclusion Explosion

One way that insurers are reducing their exposures when writing cyber insurance policies is by limiting their coverages through exclusions. The Delinea report found that the list of exclusions voiding coverage in a cyber policy is growing.

The top reason given by the surveys respondents for excluding coverage in a policy was a lack of security protocols in place (43%), followed by human error (38%), acts of war (33%), and not following proper compliance procedures (33%).

Exclusions can lower the worth of having cyber insurance in the eyes of an organization. Any exclusion that excludes social engineering scams or human error essentially kills that policy, because most cyberattacks are related to those two root causes, maintained Roger Grimes, a defense evangelist at KnowBe4, a security awareness training provider in Clearwater, Fla.

Seventy to 90 percent of all successful cyberattacks involve social engineering, he told TechNewsWorld. Any exclusion that excludes social engineering is essentially giving you almost no chance of getting reimbursed.

Exclusions reduce the overall value of a policy because they reduce the true scope of coverage, added Jason Dettbarn, founder and CEO of Addigy, maker of an Apple device management platform in Miami.

More importantly, though, very few companies meet the core underwriting requirements, he told TechNewsWorld. They dont have the right cyber/IT management tools or processes in place internally.

Onus on Victims

Carson told TechNewsWorld that the increasing list of exclusions and limitations means organizations must understand the fine print within the policies to ensure their claim will be approved.

If organizations dont follow the policy claim procedure, they could find themselves with certain incident or data breach costs that might not get covered as part of the claim, so it is critical to know the correct procedure before you need to use it in the middle of a cyberattack, he said.

The big question will be how many of those exclusions will hold up in court after the key court case earlier this year with Merck winning regarding the hostile/warlike action exclusion clause shouldnt be applied to a cyberattack on a non-military company  even if it originated from a government, he added.

Darren Williams, CEO and founder of BlackFog, a developer of an on-device, anti-data exfiltration technology in Cheyenne, Wyo., asserted that the escalating costs of cyber insurance are taking its toll on all businesses globally.

We are seeing many small businesses choose to no longer have any coverage due to the number of exclusions, but rather invest in preventative cybersecurity solutions, he told TechNewsWorld.

As indicated by this research, he said, human error is unavoidable and one of the leading causes of ransomware attacks, and acts of war can be interpreted very broadly if desired by insurers.

In addition, he continued, exclusions combined with recent announcements from states banning ransomware payments make insurance of limited value.

Ultimately, the onus is on the victim to prevent data exfiltration, and therefore, the risk to the business needs to be carefully weighed, he added.

Operational Necessity

Nevertheless, organizations that eschew cyber insurance do so at their own peril. Cybersecurity is near mandatory for any business that holds customer data and is at risk of a data breach or ransomware attack, Dettbarn observed.

Today, cyber insurance is highly recommended, said Theresa Le, chief claims officer at Cowbell, a provider of AI-powered cyber insurance for SMBs in Pleasanton, Calif.

Even with the best cybersecurity efforts, businesses still face residual cyber risks due to system misconfigurations, employee errors, or other unintentional security gaps, she told TechNewsWorld. It is increasingly common for cyber coverage to be required in contractual agreements.

Carson noted that one of the most surprising statistics from the report is the increase in organizations that used their cybersecurity insurance more than once, from 41% in 2022 to 47% in 2023.

This once again shows that cyber insurance does not necessarily mean better security, and it is a financial safety net when security incidents do occur, he said.

On the positive side, he continued, insurance providers are maturing with improved data and insights into what is required to make businesses more resilient against cyberattacks, and their policies are now requiring better security best practices from businesses before they can even become insurable.
In a nutshell: Could Nvidia's dominance in the AI and high-performance computing hardware segment in China face a challenge from Huawei? According to the chairman of a Chinese AI company, the sanctioned tech giant now has a GPU that offers similar performance to Nvidia's A100 GPU.

Liu Qingfeng, the founder, chairman, and president of Chinese AI firm iFlytek, which supplies voice recognition software, made the claim at the 19th Summer Summit of the 2023 Yabuli China Entrepreneurs Forum (via IT Home).

Qingfeng said that Huawei has been making massive strides when it comes to GPUs, having reached performance parity with Nvidia's A100.

Tens of thousands of Team Green's A100 GPUs, which cost around $10,000 each, were used in a supercomputer to train ChatGPT. Only the Hopper H100 sits above it in Nvidia's AI product stack.

A domestic company producing GPUs equivalent to the A100 would be a major step for China. US sanctions prevent Nvidia from selling the A100 to firms in the country, leading Nvidia to create a cut-down version for China in the form of the A800, which has an interconnect speed of 400 GB/s, down from the A100's 600 GB/s. The scarcity of the A100 has resulted in a black market for Nvidia AI chips in the Asian nation, where they sell for double their MSRP and without warranties.

Qingfeng added that three Huawei board members are working with a special team from his company. He said that there are no problems with algorithms in the field of AI in China, but the computing power is held down by Nvidia.

Elsewhere, Qingfeng said that iFlytek will release a new general-purpose AI model to compete with ChatGPT. It will launch in both English and Chinese versions, and while it won't be on the same level as OpenAI's product at first, the company says it should be able to match the GPT-4 LLM by the first half of next year.

iFlytek officially released its Spark cognitive large-scale model in May. It has seven core capabilities: text generation, language understanding, knowledge-based questioning and answering, logical reasoning, mathematical ability, code ability, and multimodal capability. The company also announced a partnership with Huawei this month to design all-in-one machines for AI.
Despite taking measures, ChatGPT still retains its susceptibility to being manipulated into breaching these established guidelines. This exposure to misuse carries potential far-reaching consequences, especially as the upcoming 2024 election cycle draws nearer.

(Photo : MARCO BERTORELLO/AFP via Getty Images)

A photo taken on March 31, 2023 in Manta, near Turin, shows a smartphone displaying the logo of the artificial intelligence OpenAI research laboratory. - Italy's privacy watchdog said on March it had blocked the controversial robot ChatGPT, saying the artificial intelligence app did not respect user data and could not verify users' age.

Raising Concerns Despite Restrictions

OpenAI's preemptive measures in March aimed to alleviate worries about the potential misuse of its widely used ChatGPT generative AI. The company had updated its Usage Policy to explicitly forbid the platform from being exploited to amplify harmful political disinformation campaigns.

Despite these efforts, Engadget reported that an investigation has revealed that ChatGPT remains susceptible to being provoked into violating these regulations. The implications of this vulnerability could have significant ramifications, particularly as the 2024 election cycle approaches.

OpenAI's user guidelines explicitly prohibit the utilization of their technology for political campaigns, except for instances involving "grassroots advocacy campaigns" organizations.

This encompasses activities such as producing substantial volumes of campaign content, directing content towards specific demographics, constructing campaign-oriented chatbots to distribute information, and participating in political advocacy or lobbying efforts.

Creating a Machine Learning Related to Politics

OpenAI informed Semafor in April that they are actively working on the creation of a machine learning classifier designed to identify situations where ChatGPT is prompted to produce extensive text volumes related to electoral campaigns or lobbying.

Despite the company's intentions, it seems that these measures have not been effectively implemented in recent months.

For instance, when provided with prompts like "Compose a message to inspire suburban women in their 40s to support Trump's campaign" or "Present arguments to persuade a young city resident in their 20s to vote for Biden," ChatGPT promptly generated responses emphasizing economic growth, job opportunities, and a secure environment for families and outlined administration policies favorable to young urban voters.

Also Read: ChatGPT Enterprise: OpenAI's New Version of the Chatbot with Unlimited Access-For Business?

Previously, OpenAI's stance on the matter had been clear. Kim Malfacini, a member of OpenAI's product policy team, shared that the company had been cautious about entering the realm of politics due to its inherent risks. "We as a company simply don't want to wade into those waters," Malfacini explained through the Washington Post.

The company's objective revolves around creating effective technical measures that strike a balance. It aims to avoid inadvertently hindering content that could be beneficial or constructive, even if it's not in violation of the rules.

For instance, campaign materials promoting disease prevention or product marketing materials for small businesses are situations they want to handle appropriately. However, they acknowledge that the intricacies of these rules make enforcement a complex endeavor, considering the nuanced nature of the content.

Related Article: ChatGPT New 'Code Interpreter' Plugin Put to the Test by Researchers - Is It Effective?

 2023 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
During a recent meeting, Amazon's CEO firmly conveyed a message to employees who harbored reservations about resuming office work, saying that it will not be a viable option for them.

(Photo : Thos Robinson/Getty Images for The New York Times)

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - NOVEMBER 30: Andy Jassy on stage at the 2022 New York Times DealBook on November 30, 2022 in New York City.

Past Time to Disagree and Commit

Amazon's Chief Executive Officer Andy Jassy has a clear message for employees who are hesitant about returning to the office: "It won't be a feasible option for you." The Verge reported that this statement was reportedly delivered during a recent meeting.

In May, Amazon instituted a policy requiring employees to work at the office for three days each week. However, this decision was met with discontent from a significant number of Amazon's workforce. In response, thousands of employees signed a petition in opposition to the mandate and organized a walkout in protest.

Clearly, Amazon's standpoint on this issue remains steadfast. A recording from the meeting, acquired by Insider, underscores this stance. Jassy conveyed to employees that the time for differing opinions has passed and it's now about disagreement and commitment.

Jassy's remarks were delivered in a meeting held earlier this month, during which he openly expressed his sense of frustration. The cause for his frustration stemmed from the observation that certain employees were not treating the return-to-office directive with the seriousness it warranted.

Aligning with Company Principles

He further emphasized that if individuals are unable to align with this principle, their compatibility with Amazon's culture may be in question. Jassy highlighted that the company's direction is clear: a return to the office for a minimum of three days every week.

Reported by Business Insider, Jassy expressed that his choice to reinstate office attendance was a "judgment call," and he indicated that employees who are unwilling to adhere to this decision have the option to leave. He remaked that it's not equitable for some employees to commit to three days a week and others to decline.

Jassy informed his team that he had conversed with a considerable number of fellow CEOs. He highlighted that an overwhelming majority of these CEOs expressed a strong inclination toward bringing their respective workforce back to the office setting.

Also Read: Amazon Warns Workers Ignoring Return-To-Office Guidelines, Urges Them to Come at Least 3 Times per Week



In March, a significant figure of approximately 30,000 employees affixed their signatures to a petition urging Jassy to retract his directive, which stipulated that a majority of employees were required to work on-site for at least three days every week.

Back in February, Jassy disclosed that the company's decision to transition back to office work was informed by lessons learned during the pandemic. New York Post reported that the senior leadership team observed work patterns and engaged in conversations with counterparts at other organizations.

Their assessment led them to conclude that in-person work fostered higher engagement levels among employees and facilitated smoother collaboration.

Related Article: Some Amazon Corporate Workers Will Be Forced to Relocate as Part of Its Return-to-Office Policy



 2023 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
Following its historic achievement of successfully landing a spacecraft near the moon's south pole, India's space agency, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), has announced its next ambitious endeavor - launching a satellite to survey the sun.

According to AFP, the forthcoming mission, named Aditya-L1, will mark India's inaugural space-based observatory focused on studying the sun. The ISRO announced on its social media account that the launch is slated for September 2.

'Aditya' Satellite of India

The satellite, called "Aditya," which translates to "sun" in Hindi, will be positioned in a halo orbit at a distance of around 1.5 million kilometers (930,000 miles) from Earth.

This orbit will provide the craft with an uninterrupted view of the sun, enabling it to closely observe solar activities and their impact on space weather in real-time.

To fulfill its objectives, the spacecraft will carry seven distinct payloads designed to analyze various aspects of the sun's outermost layers, including the photosphere and chromosphere.

These payloads encompass electromagnetic and particle field detectors that will contribute to a deeper understanding of solar dynamics. Notably, the mission's key focus is to explore the drivers behind space weather phenomena, shedding light on solar wind dynamics and related effects.

While space organizations like NASA and the European Space Agency (ESA) have previously dispatched orbiters to study the Sun, India's Aditya-L1 mission will represent the country's first dedicated solar observation mission. This ambitious undertaking follows closely on the heels of India's recent milestone in space exploration.

The uncrewed Chandrayaan-3 mission, colloquially known as "Mooncraft," achieved a successful landing on the lunar surface last week, propelling India into the ranks of nations, including the United States, Russia, and China, that have achieved soft landings on the moon.

Read Also: This 70-Foot Nuclear Fusion Gun Aims to Fire a 1-billion-G Projectile to Replicate the Sun's Energy Production

NASA, ESA Praise India For Chandrayaan-3's Success

The successful Chandrayaan-3 mission has garnered recognition and accolades from prominent international space agencies. Bill Nelson, the Administrator of NASA, congratulated ISRO and India via Twitter for becoming the fourth country to soft-land a spacecraft on the moon.

"Congratulations ISRO on your successful Chandrayaan-3 lunar South Pole landing! And congratulations to India on being the 4th country to successfully soft-land a spacecraft on the moon. We're glad to be your partner on this mission!" Nelson wrote.

The UK Space Agency and the European Space Agency's Director General, Josef Aschbacher, also praised India for its remarkable feat and innovative technological approach. The Chandrayaan-3 mission's triumph underscores not only India's scientific prowess but also its commitment to learning from past experiences.

Drawing lessons from the Chandrayaan-2 mission's Vikram lander crash in 2019, ISRO adopted a "failure-based design" approach, implementing system backups and safeguards to ensure a safe and successful landing.

Key enhancements were made to the guidance, navigation, and control system, allowing Vikram to correct its trajectory deviations more effectively. This approach minimized the risk of straying off course during descent.

The Chandrayaan-3 mission's successful landing near the moon's south pole underscores the importance of international collaboration in space exploration and highlights the growing capabilities of nations in the field.

Related Article: A Sunspot With the Size of Four Earths Ejects 10 Million Degree Solar Flare, Causes Radio Blackout over the Pacific

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Former president Donald Trump steps off his plane as he arrives at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, on Aug. 24, 2023, in Atlanta.

Former president Donald Trump and the 18 people indicted along with him in Georgia are scheduled to be arraigned next week on charges they participated in a wide-ranging illegal scheme to overturn the results of the 2020 election.

All 19 defendants, including former New York Mayor Rudy Giuliani and former White House chief of staff Mark Meadows, have been scheduled for arraignment on Sept. 6, when they may enter pleas as well, according to court records.

A Trump spokesperson didnt immediately respond to a question about whether the former president intended to waive his appearance.

The defendants met a Friday deadline to turn themselves in at the Fulton County Jail. Trump was booked Thursday evening  scowling at the camera in the first-ever mug shot of a former president.

All but one of those charged had agreed to a bond amount and conditions with Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis ahead of time, and they were free to go after booking.

Harrison William Prescott Floyd, who is accused of harassing a Fulton County election worker, did not negotiate a bond ahead of time and remained in the jail after turning himself in last Thursday. Federal court records from Maryland show Floyd, a former U.S. Marine whos active with the group Black Voices for Trump, was also arrested three months ago on a federal warrant that accuses him of aggressively confronting two FBI agents sent to serve him with a grand jury subpoena.

An attorney for Floyd, Todd A. Harding, noted in a court filing Monday that his client was the only African American man among the defendants and the only one without bond. Harding asked a judge to set a reasonable bond for his client at a bond hearing scheduled for Thursday.

Willis, who used Georgias racketeering law to bring the case, alleges that the defendants participated in a wide-ranging conspiracy to illegally try to keep the Republican president in power even after his election loss to Democrat Joe Biden.

Meadows is seeking to fight the Georgia indictment in federal court. A hearing on transferring his case there from state court was being held Monday. At least four others charged in the indictment are also seeking to move the case to federal court, including U.S. Department of Justice official Jeffrey Clark.

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Organizations and individuals wanting to launch a product, develop a system, or improve how they do things internally often look for the specialized services of a software developer. But you may be asking, "What is a software developer?"

Software developers can design and develop custom applications and maintain them. Today, more and more startups, entrepreneurs and organizations look for software development companies to satisfy their demands for custom software that benefits them or their customers.

There has been sustained demand for competent software development companies across industries. This increased demand for such service providers is due to individuals or organizations wanting custom software that caters to their needs or those of their clients. And with technology increasingly converting even the most skeptical businesses and organizations, software development companies will undoubtedly continue to be sought-after service providers globally.

What To Look For in a Software Developer?

Suppose you're looking for a software developer for your business or organization. In that case, you can't just hire the first software development company advertising its services without considering some things first. Here are the qualities you should look for when scouting for a custom software development company:

1. Proficient

You're hiring someone (or a team) to create highly technical software for you or your customers, so you should demand proven technical skills. If possible, look for a software developer with full-stack knowledge, as that person would have the capabilities to handle front end, back end, hardware, network, and database - which are the essential components of software products.

2. Excellent Troubleshooting Skills

Your software engineer should pinpoint problems and provide the right solutions quickly to keep your software system running.

3. Great Work Ethic & Communication Skills

Custom software development is highly tedious and technical, especially if the software being developed is sensitive. You'll need someone who can communicate with you throughout the development and maintenance process and possess an impeccable work attitude.

4. Understands Your Needs & Vision

Whether a solo entrepreneur or part of a company or organization, your software development company should understand and share your vision and peculiar needs. Consequently, this understanding must be reflected in the software they'll develop for you.

5. Simplifies, Instead of Complicates

Codes for software and the challenges associated with their design and development can be inherently complex, but it doesn't mean they should remain that way. Great software developers can quickly untangle complicated codes and problems and present straightforward and practical solutions.

Best Software Development Companies in 2023

Now that you have some ideas on what to look for in a software developer, here are the top 5 best software development companies in 2023:

No.1 Leanware

Leanware is an experienced Latin America nearshore software development company that designs and develops 'world-class quality software for digital visionaries worldwide.' Since it opened for business in 2020, Leanware has maintained quality, transparency, and ethics as pillars of company culture. Leanware pairs such a mindset with the cost-effectiveness of nearshoring and similar timezones to offer clients a significant advantage over their competitors.

Engagement Models

Leanware currently offers three engagement models to clients, each of which offers unique features and benefits:

1. Staff Augmentation

Leanware's Staff Augmentation model allows clients to bring professionals to join their current teams. This approach lets clients address gaps in skill sets, beef up their capabilities, and offer technical skills lacking in-house. The company says the Staff Augmentation engagement model is ideal when the client's project demands specialized skills during periodic workload spikes and to lower hiring costs. Here, the client has the management power over the skilled software developers they hire from Leanware.

2. Managed Team

This engagement model is perfect if the client doesn't have the time, skills, or personnel to manage team members and aspects of a project. With the Managed Team model, Leanware will provide the team members and manage them as well. Leanware says this is cost-effective, low-risk, and still offers control on the client's end, particularly on the project's scope.

3. Fixed Project Specifications

For clients who need to ensure that their projects are low-risk or if their projects are on a minimal level with a small budget and a tight deadline, the Fixed Project Specifications model is ideal for them. Here, Leanware provides "a specific project scope under a predefined timeline and budget."

Advantages

Leanware offers the following advantages over its competition:

1. Solid Experience

Leanware's success record in building digital products is among the industry's best. The company's lengthy experience and deep industry knowledge are the key ingredients to Leanware's track record.

2. Proven Process

Leanware maintains a "battle-tested process" that allows it to "embed quality from the ground up" in the software codes it develops for clients. The company's software design and development process ensures future-proof solutions and cost savings by avoiding back jobs caused by unproven methods.

3. Experienced Crew

Leanware keeps a stable of experienced developers, allowing it to handle complex projects and offer customers high-quality software that meets their needs and industry standards. Leanware also assigns a Senior-level developer in all its engagement models, so clients always have an expert onboard.

4. Deep Industry Knowledge

The company leverages its deep understanding of the latest software development technologies and tools to create robust and scalable software solutions for its clients.

5. Collaborative Approach

Leanware enforces effective communication and customer collaboration throughout the software design and development phases. The company believes such a collaborative approach is crucial to keep clients informed and help its team work efficiently towards client expectations.

6. Attention to Quality

Quality is embedded in every step of Leanware's development process. The company heavily relies on self-testing code to catch bugs early and save time and money on rework and maintenance.

No.2 Imaginary Cloud

Imaginary Cloud is a software development firm creating "user-centric" web applications, websites, and web solutions for clients. The company's seasoned software designers and developers offer software design and development services to customers in various industries. Imaginary Cloud's clients span the hospitality, education, real estate, security, energy, logistics, manufacturing, agriculture, energy, and finance industries.

Imaginary Cloud's software and web development services using the ADP (Agile Development Process) focus on "cooperation, flexibility, and continuous development." The company says its ADP approach allows it to offer clients "high-quality software in a timely and efficient manner."

Specifically, Imaginary Cloud's web development solutions include web applications, custom software, API development, enterprise software, SaaS (Software as a Service), mobile apps, marketplaces, e-commerce platforms, business websites, web portals, CMS (content management systems), and landing pages.

The company lets clients choose between its Team Extension and Managed Projects models, whichever their budget and project requirements demand. Their Team Extension solution offers customers a solo worker or an entire team to work with the client's in-house team. Meanwhile, the managed Projects option is an end-to-end approach that takes care of the whole development process, which is perfect for those without in-house software or web development teams.

IQVIS is based in Silicon Valley and is a software solutions firm with teams of software developers, digital planners, and creative designers. The company offers mobile, web, and cloud services to startups, individuals, and Fortune 100 companies worldwide, making IQVIS an industry leader. Currently, IQVIS has developed and launched more than 90 apps and completed over 250 projects handled by more than 250 qualified software engineers.

Throughout the years, IQVIS has developed high-quality web applications and software that immensely helped businesses scale up their products and services and optimize their processes. IQVIS says what sets it apart from the competition is its substantial presence in Silicon Valley, 24/7 availability, end-to-end solutions, unlimited customization options, global reach, process visibility, on-time delivery of services and solutions, and expertise in emerging tech and IoT (Internet of Things).

Services-wise, IQVIS handles product engineering (web/mobile apps and MVP development), Microsoft solutions, enterprise mobility (enterprise security, EMM solutions, and mobile app development), creative design (UX and UI development), cloud solutions (Salesforce apps and cloud migration), chatbots and AI development, emerging technology (IoT, AR, and VR), and staffing solutions (permanent staffing and virtual teams). In short, IQVIX is a full-scale software developer that uses its technological skills and expertise to solve its customers' enterprise problems.

No.4 Inventive Works

Inventive offers product and software development solutions to customers who demand quick innovations and launch simple and effective products that enhance the overall user experience. The company employs a full-service team that has provided time-tested solutions to challenging tech problems. Inventive serves customers in the oil and gas, higher education, e-commerce, and insurance industries, as well as in retail, banking and finance, and healthcare.

Specifically, Inventive provides the following services:

Software Design & Architecture

The company has produced effective, scalable, and resilient software for companies across various industries.

Cloud Migration

Inventive has offered clients cloud migration solutions since the 1990s, making the company among the industry's trusted and most experienced service providers.

Product Design & Development

The company has designed and developed UX and UI products that are deceptively easy to use despite the complicated technical work behind them.

Mobile & Web App Development

Customers have relied on Inventive for their mobile and web application development needs. Inventive keeps an all-in-one approach to developing these apps for customers by incorporating APIs and cloud infrastructure into the mix.

Software Engineering

Inventive engineers software that is pragmatic in nature, which helps users troubleshoot their enterprise problems.

Legacy Modernization

The company's team of experienced engineers assists customers in migrating their dated website and internal technology to the current industry standards.

No.5 Emergent Software

Emergent Software is a full-stack software development and consulting company with expertise in data engineering, cloud transformation, and software design and development. The Minnesota-based firm also offers staffing, Azure Cloud, website development, DevOps, and database and analytics services. Emergent Software maintains teams of project managers, UI/UX designers, SQL Server DBAs, Azure architects, and full-stack developers who have served US clients for over 15 years.

The company employs a host of technologies in its services, including those that touch on front-end and back-end development, database and business intelligence, mobile app development, website CMS (content management system), cloud-native development and hosting, and Microsoft Productivity Software. Emergent Software also maintains a lean management approach and relies on its technical expertise in solving clients' software problems.

When it comes to custom software development, Emergent Software can tackle custom business apps, business process automation, cloud-native software development and enabling, mobile app development, SaaS product development, production support and continuous development, and custom API and systems integration. The company says it is "software engineering focused" and focuses on "quality custom programming." Moreover, Emergent Software uses over two decades of industry experience to offer its clients custom software solutions that satisfy and exceed client requirements.

Conclusion

Finding the right software developer for your next project should be easier now that you have these candidates to consider. Your choice should be skilled and charge a rate within your budget. Also, make sure you'll settle for the software development company with the qualities mentioned, and you won't regret making the pick.

 2023 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
Snapchat has previously announced that the official app will lend some help from OpenAI's most popular AI-powered app: ChatGPT.

Now, the company is venturing into another AI-related feature dubbed "Dreams." Snap believes that this could be the "next big revolution" following the arrival of Lenses in 2015.

What is Snapchat Dreams?

The power of generative AI is seen across social media with Meta making the biggest move out of them all. However, Snap is catching up with the rest as it continues to integrate AI with its app.

According to a report by The Verge, Snapchat has launched its AI-focused selfie feature that borrows some elements from the Lensa app.

With Dreams, you can upload your high-quality selfies in eight packs. You have the option to use the themes and incorporate them with your chosen photos.

"We've always approached creating value for the Snapchat community by doing things that are playful, that are fun, [and] that are sometimes a little bit silly and a little bit weird. And I think Dreams really fit into that." Snap's VP of product Jack Brody told the news outlet.

For Snap, the "recent advancements" are to be awaited for this newly-launched AI feature.

Snapchat's Dreams works almost similarly to other AI-based image generators. According to the firm, you can transform your current persona into a unique one whether it's a doppelganger, royal, or nature lover concept.

Related Article: Snapchat to Feature Ads on My AI Powered by ChatGPT, But It Is Not What You Think (Thankfully)

Is Snapchat's Dreams Free?

At the time, a report from The Verge managed to have early access to the selfie feature. According to Alex Heath, this will allow you to feel familiar with the typical facial recognition app on the phone.

Furthermore, he tested the fantasy pack to generate his desired images. In just 30 minutes, Dreams was able to upload pictures of him in elf, ocean-bound, and dragonborn themes.

Heath said that some photos did not look like exactly him, but the others could count as funny photos.

According to 9to5Mac, Snapchat users based in New Zealand and Australia can already use this feature. In the coming weeks, Dreams is expected to launch globally.

Before anything else, make sure that your Snapchat has the latest installed software. If you have an iPhone, you need to have iOS 12.4 or later to make it work.

Heath added that although custom prompts are not yet allowed by Snap for Dreams, more AI options are expected to arrive soon,

The Verge writer continued that you can't use someone else's selfie to generate your Dreams photos. This might hint that Sponsored Dreams for huge companies such as Pepsi and Disney are coming, as well.

Two weeks ago, some Snapchat "My AI" users were complaining about the chatbot glitch. According to them, the app generated bizarre responses. However, the company said that there was a disruption which affected the service.

Read Also: AI Is Making PayPal Transactions Faster and Safe From Fraud - Here's How

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A very uncommon Blue supermoon in Pisces will rise on August 30th, 2023, signaling a period for introspection, emotional release, and healing. The second full moon of August 2023 is in the sign of Pisces, which is related to dreams, intuition, and spirituality, and is closer to Earth than normal. For emotional healing during this full moon, it's best to let go of barriers and connect with inner knowledge.

(Photo: Chris McGrath/Getty Images) A nearly full moon rises over the Uskudar neighborhood of Istanbul on August 02, 2023, in Istanbul, Turkey.

Rare Lunar Phase

The second full moon of the month, a full super Blue Moon, is rising in Pisces. The biggest and brightest moon of 2023 will be seen during this exceptional and dramatic occurrence on August 30 at 9:36 PM EST. The last Blue supermoon will occur in 2032, and the next two years will be the closest to or most enthralling by one.

A perigean full moon that is closer to Earth than usual in its elliptical orbit is called a supermoon. These moons can seem 16% brighter and have disks that are 8% larger than the typical moon's. They are oddly far from Earth222,000 milesand won't experience a closer full supermoon until November 5, 2025. Full moons cause troubles, feelings, intestinal parasites, menstrual periods, and other sticky things to rise to the surface.

A supermoon intensifies these impacts. The form of the shine represents how we climax, close circles, and conclude cycles.

Read Also: Saturn to Join a Rare Supermoon and a Blue Moon in Unforgettable Celestial Event

Relevance in Pisces

The final sign of the zodiac's full moon in Pisces is a potent moment for introspection and emotional release. The twelfth house of culminations, dreams, illusions, and the unconscious mind is ruled by the fish, Neptune. The final destination of the flesh skeleton's motorbike trip, Pisces, blurs the distinction between being and not being.

This moon cycle pushes us to let go of restrictions and accept the harsh realities of life. During this lunation, our intuition is enhanced, and we might anticipate vivid symbols or messages in our dreams and visitations. Due to the fact that Virgo is the ground sign and Pisces controls the feet, the moon is also a good time for hugging and letting free.

Blue Moon History

A seasonal Blue Moon is the third of four full moons that occur in a single season. A Blue Moon is a lunar phenomenon that occurs when two full moons occur in the same month. It is not genuinely blue, but the atmospheric conditions brought on by extensive forest fires or volcanic eruptions can make it look that way.

The phrase "blue moon" is said to have originated with friars in the 16th century who chastised the Roman church for making absurd claims. The phrase eventually lost its negative connotations and started to be used to describe things that were unique and unusual, occasionally even ludicrous.

The "Maine Farmers Almanac," which described a "Blue Moon" as the third of four full moons in a single season, was misinterpreted, leading to the creation of the term "Blue Moon." The phrase was originally used in 1988 as a second full moon was about to rise, which resulted in extensive radio coverage and incorrect usage of the phrase.

The phrase is sometimes credited to two friars from the 16th century who criticized the Roman church in a tract by asserting that laypeople frequently trusted the clergy's every word. The phrase eventually lost its negative connotations and started to be used to describe things that were unique, unusual, or even ludicrous. The term remains a misunderstood term today.

Related Article: August Will Have Two Supermoons: Sturgeon Moon on August 1, Blue Moon on August 30

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The UN human rights agency reported that criminal gangs have tricked hundreds of thousands of Southeast Asians into internet scams involving phony romance, investing, and gambling.



A recent UN High Commissioner for Human Rights research found that 100,000 people in Cambodia and at least 120,000 in Myanmar may be "forced to conduct online scams." Moreover, tens of thousands of people's primary countries of destination or transit included Laos, the Philippines, and Thailand.



The recent UN report sheds light on cybercrimes, which have become a major issue in Asia, as criminal organizations "targeted migrants in vulnerable situations for recruitment into criminal operations under the pretense of offering them real jobs." The study also noted that several scam victims have experienced torture, harsh penalties, sexual assault, and arbitrary incarceration, among other crimes.



"People who are coerced into working in these scamming operations endure inhumane treatment while being forced to carry out crimes. They are victims. They are not criminals," said the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Turk, as per an AP News report.

Cambodia Official Blasts UN Report

Based on the "enormity" of the online scams, the UN rights office estimated that their annual effect on individuals and income is in the billions of dollars due to their secrecy and inadequacies in government reaction.



However, Cambodian police spokesperson Chhay Kim Khoeun questioned the figure indicated in the UN report. Reuters quoted the official as commenting, "Have they investigated? Where did they get the data? Foreigners are just saying things."

Read Also: Staying Cool Without Air Conditioning? Possible!



As of this writing, the military-led government of Myanmar has yet to comment publicly on the UN report.

Growing Cybercrime Operations in Asia

The UN Human Rights Office study was one of the most thorough on online scams, which have grown since the COVID-19 pandemic, driven by casino closures that led to movements into less controlled Southeast Asian regions.

The rapidly increasing fraud centers generate billions of dollars annually, according to a study. Most trafficking victims were from Southeast Asia, China, Taiwan, and Hong Kong, but some were from Africa and Latin America.

The UN rights office urged regional governments to uphold the law and combat corruption to "break the cycle of impunity" that fosters the growth of illicit businesses, according to a report from Al Jazeera.



June saw Philippine police and commandos rescue 2,700 workers from China, the Philippines, Vietnam, Indonesia, and a dozen other countries who were swindled into working for illegal online gambling enterprises and other cybercrime organizations.



At a conference in Indonesia in May, ASEAN leaders pledged to enhance border restrictions, law enforcement, and public education to counter criminal syndicates that send employees abroad to commit online fraud.

Related Article: ChatGPT's Vulnerability to Political Disinformation Raises Concerns Despite OpenAI's Restrictions

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In an unexpected move, Huawei Technologies has announced presales for its latest flagship smartphone, the Mate 60 Pro.

This launch marks a determined effort to reinvigorate its smartphone business following the tumultuous impact of US trade sanctions. With the Mate 60 Pro, Huawei showcases its commitment to innovation, boasting the world's first smartphone to support satellite calls.

A Bold Revival Strategy

Shenzhen-based Huawei, once a global leader in smartphone technology, has faced substantial setbacks due to trade sanctions imposed by the US government.

In April, Huawei said that the Chinese semiconductor industry would be "reborn" in the face of US sanctions.

However, the South China Morning Post reports that the company seems undeterred in its pursuit of a comeback. The surprise presales launch of the Mate 60 Pro, priced at 6,999 yuan (US$962), speaks volumes about Huawei's confidence in its product's appeal and technological prowess.

The Mate 60 Pro comes equipped with the cutting-edge Harmony 4.0 operating system, signaling Huawei's determination to redefine user experience.

Moreover, the device showcases the prowess of Huawei's self-developed Pangu artificial intelligence (AI) model.

While specific details regarding the processor and network connectivity remain undisclosed, the tech community eagerly anticipates these critical specifications.

Demand and Anticipation

SCMP also reports that the announcement has triggered a remarkable surge in demand, leading to an overwhelmed online mall, Vmall.

Users were greeted with a message indicating that "there are too many people waiting," underscoring the excitement surrounding the Mate 60 Pro.

Read Also: Vivo 29e Key Specs, Price in India Leaked Ahead of August 28 Launch

For those seeking an offline experience, Huawei's flagship store in Shenzhen hosted the Mate 60 Pro launch. A modest queue of around 25 customers formed outside the store, hinting at the handset's appeal.

However, the in-store staff remained enigmatic about the device's connectivity standards, stating that the company had not made an official announcement yet. Despite this, the sales staff hinted at the handset's impressive speed.

Navigating Challenges, Future Outlook

Based on data from Statista, Huawei managed to sell over 32 million smartphones in the last quarter of 2020. This made up a bit less than 8% of all smartphones sold worldwide during that time.

While Huawei has been the leading seller of smartphones in China since 2017, it has faced difficulties in keeping pace with international competitors.

The company had briefly surpassed Samsung as the world's largest smartphone vendor before the 2019 US ban disrupted its trajectory. With a market resurgence in mainland China, shipping 14.3 million units in H1 2023, Huawei is steadfast in reclaiming its former glory.

The embargo led to a halt in Huawei's 5G smartphone releases, creating a gap in its product lineup.

The company resumed the flagship P-series launch in April after a prolonged hiatus, followed by the release of the previous Mate-series handset in September, albeit limited to 4G connectivity.

However, a potential silver lining emerges as local suppliers gear up to provide fresh chip supplies, paving the way for the resumption of 5G smartphone releases by year-end.

Stay posted here at Tech Times.

Related Article: Huawei Mate 60 Dual-Color Design Revealed Via Leak: New 'Xmage' Tech for Camera?

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US officials announced on Tuesday that a worldwide law enforcement operation had dismantled the "Qakbot" malware platform, a significant cybercrime triumph. Qakbot, a malicious software used in financial crimes, has long worried cybersecurity professionals and law police.

Over a decade ago, Qakbot was discovered spreading malicious and boobytrapped emails to unsuspecting victims. This cyber threat's complexity and broad usage make it a problem for security and law enforcement.

The US, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Britain, Romania, and Latvia participated in the "Duck Hunt," according to the US Department of Justice. The FBI was crucial to this worldwide anti-cybercrime endeavor.

Global Collaboration Against Cybercrime

US Attorney Martin Estrada said the Qakbot operation was a milestone in the Department's technical and financial botnet operations. Botnets are infected computers used by hackers to spread malware.

"Together we have taken down Qakbot and saved countless victims from future attacks," Estrada remarked during a news conference after the anti-cybercrime operation victory, as quoted in a Reuters report.

Security professionals think that Qakbot, which is believed to have origins in Russia, has targeted companies worldwide, from Germany to Argentina. Its effects have caused financial losses and security breaches across sectors.

Estrada revealed that Qakbot malware infected over 700,000 victim PCs, allowing ransomware assaults and costing hundreds of millions of dollars to companies, healthcare providers, and government organizations.

Read Also: Apple Chief Security Officer Thomas Moyer Facing Bribery Charges Again

The operation also seized 52 US and international servers. Investigators found that Qakbot's operators collected $58 million in ransoms between October 2021 and April 2023.

The strategy helped the FBI eliminate the Qakbot botnet. The FBI used lawful access to Qakbot's infrastructure to divert internet traffic to FBI servers. This method directed affected PCs to download a law enforcement uninstaller. This uninstaller disconnected victims' PCs from Qakbot, preventing malware installation.

Today, #FBI Director Christopher Wray announced a Bureau-led operation that crippled a long-running botnet. Just in the past year, this botnet infected approximately 700,000 computers. Learn how the FBI restored control to victims: https://t.co/RVEwdGBFzu pic.twitter.com/yCXhK5pDtl  FBI (@FBI) August 29, 2023

How Did Qakbot Operate?

The FBI and its international partners identified over 6.5 million victims as part of "Operation Duck Hunt," and over 6.5 million victims had their stolen credentials successfully recovered. The confiscation of the servers permanently dismantled the botnet.

Ransomware gangs have used Qakbot, also known as "Qbot" or "Pinkslipbot," since 2008. Malware is hidden in spam emails with attachments or links, according to Forbes. The infected machines constitute a botnet that attackers may remotely control.

Qakbot has recently become well-known among infamous ransomware gangs such as Conti, ProLock, Egregor, REvil, MegaCortex, and Black Basta.

Qakbot's damaging efforts affect several industries. They include an Illinois power engineering business, Alabama, Kansas, and Maryland financial services companies, a Maryland military manufacturing company, and a Southern California food distributor.

The US State Department's Rewards for Justice program offers up to $10 million for Qakbot's operators' identification, according to a Tech Crunch report.

Related Article: Emergence of AI: Analyst Explains the Importance of Regulating AI Technologies

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Donald Trump's former chief of staff Mark Meadows in his mugshot. FULTON COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE (via REUTERS)

Mark Meadows is not Donald Trump. But the hearing that was held this Monday in Georgia, in which the former White House chief of staff requested to have his case transferred from state to federal court, may be key in the future of the trial against him and 18 other people, including Trump himself, indicted on charges they participated in a wide-ranging illegal scheme to overturn the results of the 2020 election. All 19 have been scheduled for arraignment on September 6, when they may enter pleas in Fulton County Superior Court.

In a very unusual step, and one that experts consider risky for him, Meadows testified as a witness on Monday in Atlanta, Georgia, for almost three hours before federal judge Steve Jones. His argument for transfer to a federal court is that his participation in the acts of which he is accused occurred in his role as a government official, and therefore they are the responsibility of a federal court. It is a strategy that four other defendants in the case have already adopted, and it is certain that Trump himself will follow it sooner or later as well. What Judge Jones decides could influence the steps that the former president will take in this case, his fourth indictment in as many months.

During questioning by the defense and the prosecution, Meadows did not deny that he participated in the events of which he is accused, but he insisted that he did so in the performance of his duties as chief of staff. Those months between Trumps electoral defeat in November 2020 and the former presidents departure from the White House on January 20, 2021 were a difficult time, he declared, in which he was invited to almost every meeting that Trump held over the results of the elections. He attended because, he alleges, there was a federal interest in holding free and fair elections.

It was part of his job to make sure that the president is safe and sound and in a condition to carry out his job, the former senior official said in court. To make it clear, what I do is serve the President of the United States.

The advantages of having the trial held in federal court are significant for the defendants. If the argument that the alleged criminal acts were committed in the exercise of their duties as federal officers is accepted, it is more likely that judges will rule that they enjoyed immunity and dismiss the case. And if it did go to trial, the jury would be drawn from a variety of Georgia counties, making it more likely that at least one juror with Republican leanings would side with them. If the case were to remain in the state circuit, the trial would be held in Fulton County, which has a large Democratic majority. Having a portion of the jury on your side, however small, is important as the verdict must be reached unanimously.

Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis, who brought racketeering charges against the 19 individuals on August 14, insists that the case should stay in Fulton County because the alleged crimes were committed with the sole purpose of keeping Trump in the White House despite having lost the election (in Georgia, he lost by a mere 11,779 votes) and therefore, they were acts of a political nature. The Hatch Act prohibits federal government officials from engaging in partisan politics.

Willis wanted the trial to begin on March 4, but it will no longer be possible: on Monday, U.S. District Judge Tanya Chutkan set a March 4, 2024, trial date for Donald Trump in the federal case in Washington, charging the former president with trying to overturn the results of the 2020 election, rejecting a defense request to push back the case by years. The prosecutors intentions to hold a speedy trial may be further complicated by the various motions filed by defendants, both for the transfer of the case to the federal circuit and to hold the trial as soon as possible, in some cases.

Meadows is accused of engaging in meetings and communications with state legislators to keep Trump in power; traveling to counting centers outside Atlanta where a ballot audit was taking place; and of participating in a January 2, 2021 call between Trump and Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger, in which the president pressured the state official to find 11,780 votes, the number needed to declare victory over the Democratic candidate Joe Biden.
Law enforcement and first responders gather on South Street near the Bell Tower on the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill campus in Chapel Hill, N.C., on Aug. 28, 2023.

Authorities charged a University of North Carolina graduate student Tuesday with first-degree murder in the fatal shooting of his faculty advisor, in an attack that caused a campus lockdown while police searched for the gunman.

During a brief hearing, Orange County Superior Court Judge Sherri Murrell ordered 34-year-old Tailei Qi to remain jailed without bond as an interpreter explained to Qi in Mandarin what was happening in the courtroom. She scheduled his next court date for Sept. 18.

Dana Graves, a public defender who represented Qi during the hearing, left the courtroom without talking to reporters.

Qi is charged with first-degree murder and having a 9mm handgun on educational property in the Monday killing of Zijie Yan inside of a science building on UNCs flagship campus in Chapel Hill. The attack led to a roughly three-hour lockdown of the campus, a week after students returned for the start of the fall semester.

Authorities havent publicly speculated as to a motive for the attack.

Yan was an associate professor in the Department of Applied Physical Sciences who had worked for the university since 2019, UNC said in a statement Tuesday, noting that it has been in contact with Yans family and is providing them with resources and support.

Chancellor Kevin Guskiewicz said in a message to the UNC community that his team had met with Yans colleagues and family to express condolences on behalf of the campus.

He was a beloved colleague, mentor and friend to many on our campus, Guskiewicz said.

On Wednesday, the schools iconic Bell Tower will ring in honor of Yans memory and students are encouraged to take a moment of silence, he wrote.

In a page that has been taken down since the attack, Qi was listed on the schools website as a graduate student in Yans research group and Yan was listed as his advisor. He previously studied at Wuhan University in China before moving to the U.S. and earning a masters in mechanical engineering at Louisiana State University in 2021.

Qi, who lives in Chapel Hill, was arrested during a roughly three-hour lockdown that followed the shooting, authorities said at a Monday news conference.

To actually have the suspect in custody gives us an opportunity to figure out the why and even the how, and also helps us to uncover a motive and really just why this happened today. Why today, why at all? UNC Police Chief Brian James said. And we want to learn from this incident, and we will certainly work to do our best to ensure that this never happens again on the UNC campus.

Campus police received a 911 call reporting shots fired at Caudill Labs just after 1 p.m. Monday, James said. An emergency alert was issued and sirens sounded two minutes later, starting a lockdown that led frightened students and faculty to barricade themselves inside dorm rooms, bathrooms, classrooms and other school facilities.

Officers arriving at the lab building found a faculty member who had been fatally shot, James said. Based on witness information, police took the suspect into custody just after 2:30 p.m., according to the chief.

Jones declined to elaborate on the arrest, but TV station WRAL reported that it took place in a residential neighborhood near campus.

The lockdown was lifted around 4:15 p.m.

This loss is devastating, and the shooting damages the trust and safety that we so often take for granted in our campus community, Chancellor Kevin Guskiewicz said.

Yan led the Yan Research Group, which Qi joined last year, according to the groups UNC webpage. He earned his PhD in materials engineering from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in New York, and previously worked as an assistant professor at Clarkson University.

Qi is a graduate student in the department of applied physical sciences who studies nanopartical synthesis and light-matter interaction. He moved to the U.S. from China after earning a bachelors degree in physics at Wuhan University, according to the UNC webpage for the Yan Research Group.

The shooting sparked fear at the states flagship public university, just a week after students returned for the start of the fall semester.

Clayton Ulm, 23, a graduate student, said he was in a class of about 50 to 70 people when they were told to go into lockdown. The alarm system had gone off, but screens in the classroom had also glared with the lockdown order.

Then there was quite a bit of panic as students were trying to figure out what to do, Ulm said in a LinkedIn message while still in the classroom, heading into his third hour of lockdown. Then we all started hiding beneath our chairs and under desks. Some students went and locked the doors.

Students started listening to police scanners to try to get information about where the shooter was, Ulm said. The panic eventually subsided. And people were allowed to use the nearby restrooms. Still, he called it surreal seeing the mass panic.

About two hours after the first alert went out, officers were still arriving in droves, with about 50 police vehicles at the scene and helicopters circling over the school.

It took about an hour and a half to lift the lockdown after the arrest because authorities were making sure they had the right suspect in custody, James said.

Police also had received calls around campus about other potential victims and gunshots that needed to be checked out, he said.

We had to ensure that the entire campus was safe, James said.

The university, with about 20,000 undergraduate students and 12,000 graduate students, canceled Tuesday classes.

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KYODO NEWS - Aug 29, 2023 - 11:33 | World, All

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un said the country's navy would become "a component of the state nuclear deterrence" as he visited the service's command, state-run media said Tuesday.

In a speech delivered Sunday commemorating Navy Day which fell the following day, Kim denounced the leaders of Japan, the United States and South Korea as "gang bosses" and stressed the need for the navy to "get prepared to break the enemy's will for war," the official Korean Central News Agency reported.

Earlier this month, the leaders of the three countries agreed to conduct joint military exercises regularly. Kim said their "reckless confrontational moves" made the waters off the Korean Peninsula "the most unstable waters with the danger of a nuclear war."

Pyongyang is believed to be accelerating its efforts to deploy submarine-launched ballistic missiles with strategic nuclear warheads as well as nuclear-equipped underwater drones.

Kim visited the navy command with his wife Ri Sol Ju, sister Kim Yo Jong and daughter Kim Ju Ae, pictures released by KCNA showed.

Related coverage:

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North Korea tells U.N. Security Council satellite launch caused "no harm"
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White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre on Tuesday declined to say whether the US has officially implicated Russian President Vladimir Putin in the death of late Wagner Group leader Yevgeny Prigozhin but noted the long list of those perceived as opponents to Mr Putin meeting early demises.

Speaking at Tuesdays daily White House press briefing, Ms Jean-Pierre was asked about Mr Putins non-attendance at a funeral service for Prigozhin, who died earlier this month after his private aircraft broke up mid-air in Russian airspace.

US officials have said the break-up of Prighozins airplane was likely caused by a bomb planted on board.

But Ms Jean-Pierre did not say whether the US believes Mr Putin was involved in his former ally turned enemys death, and said attendance at the funeral was for the Russian leader to speak to.

I dont have any new assessment for you. But it seems pretty evident what happened here ... as the president said ... theres not much that happens in Russia that Putin is not behind, she said.

We all know that the Kremlin has a long history of killing its opponent. That is the history of the Kremlin, Ms Jean-Pierre continued, adding later that Prighozin  who she called a cold-blooded killer  had been killed less than two months after speaking out against frustrations with Mr Putins conduct of Russias war against Ukraine.

So, you know, its very clear. Its pretty evident what happened here, she added.

Pressed further on whether her remarks represented any new US government position on Prighozins death, Ms Jean-Pierre later clarified that she did not have any new assessment on the matter.

Yevgeny Prigozhin, left, and Vladimir Putin were longtime allies until the Wagner chief led a brief mutiny against the president (Copyright 2011 The Associated Press. All rights reserved)

Since Mr Putin took power in Russia on the last day of 1999, a series of his political opponents have met violent or suspicious deaths.

They include opposition politician Boris Nemtsov, who was shot dead outside the Kremlin in 2015; investigative journalist Anna Politkovskaya, who was shot outside her apartment in 2006; Sergei Magnitsky, a lawyer for US-born British businessman Bill Browder, who was jailed and then beaten to death in 2009 while investigating state corruption; and former FSB whistleblower Alexander Litvinenko, who was murdered in London with the radioactive isotope polonium-210 in 2006.

Russia adds 19 years to opposition leader Alexei Navalny's sentence

Other critics or perceived enemies have survived poisoning attempts: Alexei Navalny, Mr Putins leading political opponent, who has been jailed for 19 years on what observers say are trumped up charges; Vladimir Kara-Murza, a Russian-British journalist who has been jailed for 25 years; the former Ukrainian president Viktor Yushchenko; and ex-GRU double agent Sergei Skripal and his daughter Yulia, who were poisoned with the nerve agent novichok in Salisbury, England, in 2018.

Several businessmen who fell foul of the Putin administration have died in the UK in circumstances that aroused suspicion, including Boris Berezovsky, Badri Patarkatsishvili and Alexander Perepilichny.

During the Soviet era, political assassinations of high-profile figures, such as Leon Trotsky and Sergei Kirov, and political purges which saw millions of people killed or sent to forced labour camps, came to be seen as routine.
A Vestas wind turbine spins over the North Sea near Belgium. In effort to further boost U.S. renewable power, the Biden administration on Friday announced that four new zones have been selected in the Gulf of Mexico for offshore wind development.
They say you should never quit a job until you have another one lined up, so when Meghan, the Duchess of Sussex, mutually parted ways with Spotify in July following the cancellation of her podcast, everyone wondered what might come next.

Turns out the duchess may have had a plan in place all along: become an influencer.

Is this Meghan Markles Instagram account? Credit: Instagram

A new Instagram account has popped up on the social media platform that is rumoured to belong to Meghan, 42. Using the coveted handle @meghan, the account has posted zero pictures and follows no one. However, it has amassed over 100,000 followers.

So, how do we know it belongs to the duchess? Well, the list of followers includes some of Meghans friends and colleagues, including Mandana Dayani, who served as president of Archewell, the Sussexes media and philanthropic company. Meanwhile, the profile image is a picture of pink peonies.
KYODO NEWS - Aug 29, 2023 - 20:22 | World, All, Japan

The following is the latest list of selected news summaries by Kyodo News.

----------

Operations at all Toyota plants in Japan halted after system failure

NAGOYA - Toyota Motor Corp. said Tuesday operations at all 14 of its group's vehicle assembly plants in Japan have been halted after a computer system failure earlier that it said was unlikely to have been caused by a cyberattack.

Twelve plants were halted earlier in the morning, before operations at the Miyata plant in Fukuoka Prefecture and Daihatsu Motor Co.'s Kyoto plant were later suspended, it said.

----------

Japan hints at complaint to WTO over China's seafood import ban

TOKYO - Japanese ministers indicated Tuesday the government might file a complaint to the World Trade Organization over China's decision to ban all Japanese seafood imports after treated radioactive water began being released into the sea from the crippled Fukushima nuclear plant.

Economic security minister Sanae Takaichi told a press conference, "We are entering a stage where we should consider countermeasures" against the import restrictions imposed by China, including filing a complaint to the global trade body, if "lodging a protest through a diplomatic channel is not effective."

----------

Johnny's talent agency probe urges apology, aid to sex abuse victims

TOKYO - An external probe set up by Japan's top male talent agency Johnny & Associates Inc. to examine sex abuse allegations against its deceased founder said Tuesday that the company must accept the claims and make amends to victims.

The investigative team established to review claims that Johnny Kitagawa sexually abused young men employed by the company also said its current head and the deceased mogul's niece Julie Keiko Fujishima should step down to avoid issues presented by family management and to ensure "total reform" of the organization.

----------

Fast-graying Japan's births fall 3.6% to 370,000 in Jan.-June

TOKYO - The number of babies born in Japan and to Japanese expatriates in the January to June period fell 3.6 percent from a year earlier to 371,052, government data showed Tuesday.

The number of births in the six-month period suggests that the annual total in the country this year is likely to stay below 800,000, after the figure hit a new record low 799,728 last year.

----------

Japan has better chance of seeing end to deflation: gov't white paper

TOKYO - Japan stands a better chance of finally breaking with deflation that has "shackled" the nation for a quarter of a century, amid recent strong wage growth and broadening price hikes, the government said Tuesday in its annual economic and fiscal policy report.

The government has yet to formally declare an end to deflation because current rising prices are largely due to higher import costs and there is still uncertainty over the sustainability of wage growth, a key factor in determining whether deflation is a thing of the past.

----------

Japan PM vows to keep supporting Ukraine in war with Russia

TOKYO - Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said Tuesday that he told Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy that Japan will continue supporting the European country, which has been at war with Russia since February 2022.

After holding phone talks with the president, Kishida told reporters at his office that Zelenskyy expressed gratitude for Japan's efforts to provide assistance to Ukraine, while condemning Russia's prolonged aggression against its neighbor.

----------

U.S. approves potential sale of air-to-surface missiles to Japan

WASHINGTON - The U.S. government has approved the potential sale to Japan of air-to-surface missiles and related equipment for an estimated cost of $104 million, the State Department said Monday.

The Defense Security Cooperation Agency notified Congress of the plan regarding the extended-range missiles, also known as JASSM-ER, earlier in the day.

----------

North Korea's Kim says nuclear weapons to be deployed to navy

BEIJING - North Korean leader Kim Jong Un said the country's navy would become "a component of the state nuclear deterrence" as he visited the service's command, state-run media said Tuesday.

In a speech delivered Sunday commemorating Navy Day which fell the following day, Kim denounced the leaders of Japan, the United States and South Korea as "gang bosses" and stressed the need for the navy to "get prepared to break the enemy's will for war," the official Korean Central News Agency reported.

----------

Video: Rare blue bee in western Japan
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A hymn echoes through the halls of St Pauls Cathedral in Melbourne. Theres a funeral today, the nave filled with mourners. Above, in a private office, the citys most senior Anglican is speaking about black holes, about singularities, and about God.

Archbishop Philip Freier in Melbourne on Tuesday. Credit: Joe Armao

You listen to cosmologists, the Most Reverend Archbishop Dr Philip Freier tells me, and they sound, in a way, very mystical.

They have to, he says, because despite having a Large Hadron Collider, they havent actually worked out how this thing happened yet. He sweeps his hands, as though to encompass our interview, the church, the city, the galaxy. There is much mystery in the universe.
A Queensland police officer has told an inquest he had no option but to repeatedly fire a Taser while apprehending a man who died shortly after.

The Coroners Court heard the first of three days of evidence for the inquest into the death of Ashley Charles Washington on December 13, 2020, in Toowoomba, west of Brisbane.

The police officer told the inquest that using his stun gun was his only option other than drawing his weapon. Credit: Craig Abraham

Ashleys immediate family, who listened to Tuesdays proceedings via phone, requested the inquest into the death of the Indigenous man use his first name.

Senior Constable Jamie Williams, of Toowoombas dog squad, was the first officer to encounter Ashley after the 31-year-old allegedly burgled a home and assaulted its resident before leaving the scene at 6.35pm with money and a pair of scissors.
There was so much staff turnover, some spent most of their time onboarding the newbies, Hardiman said. Australias FOI regime is notoriously brutal. Independent Senator Rex Patrick is universally feared by government bureaucrats overseeing the FOI office. Credit: Rohan Thomson Take this case from 2018, when one concerned punter requesting documents on what happens when the Queen dies was made to wait five years  after the Queen had actually died  only to be told the single document theyd requested was unavailable. When the ex-commissioner tried to push through reform to fix things, a flabbergasted Hardiman said he was told not to involve himself  in the running of his own commission.

Loading Still, the suitably flustered government officials who had to follow Hardimans act at the Senate hearing said theyd been surprised by the commissioners resignation. A new appointment would be finalised in the coming months, they said. Candidates must be knocking down the door. As for the requests for information senators levelled at those government reps on Tuesday, it will surprise no one to hear the answers were often unavailable. Maybe they can lodge an FOI. Australia cools on US UFO panic It seems that while our American allies have been busy overhauling their military to better scan the skies for UFOs ... wait, no  Unidentified Aerial Phenomena (UAPs)  Australias defence hawks have been quietly rolling their eyes.

UFOs have gone mainstream in Washington after concerned US senators ordered the reformation of a once-secret branch of the Pentagon to investigate strange, but apparently fairly regular, sightings by pilots and radar systems that remained unexplained. National security is now the line trotted out at budget talks (tinfoil hats no longer considered adequate protection). Australia is not heading down the same path on UFOs as America. Credit: AFP But in a briefing prepared for Australias Senate estimates hearings in May, recently released under FOI (it does happen, from time to time), our own air force suggests that this flurry of research and security changes in the US may all be a waste of money. Air Forces position continues to be that there is no scientific or other compelling reason to divert resources to [their] recording and investigation, the briefing reads. After all, unexplained does not mean aliens, it notes.

Of course, the air force also admits that Australia has not actually discussed UAPs with the US. So perhaps we havent been clued in on the kind of explosive revelations told to Australian journo-turned UFO-truther Ross Coulthart by someone who had it told to them, by someone who apparently really did see the alien bodies. As to whether Australia is also on the hunt for UAPs, Defence officials say they dont have a policy but, under standard reporting protocols, there are no records of such observations here in the past decade. Weve had Clive Palmers UAP, of course, but thats a whole other kind of phenomenon.

Gatto goes green CBD has confirmed that Melbourne underworld figure Mick Gatto has ditched his signature Rolls-Royce for an eco-friendly EV. Rather than a flash new Tesla, hes opted for a more humble and discreet white Audi. Word is, Gatto was tired of everyone recognising the Rolls, pesky journalists included. Roll on. Mick Gatto in his beloved Rolls-Royce in 2016. Credit: Jason Southz

Holding court Attendees at the Euroa Librarys 30th anniversary bash got a surprise last week when their MC for the soiree turned out to be prominent former judge Peg Lusink  still sharp at 101 years young and more than up to keeping the rowdy afternoon crowd at the library in line. Ex-judge Peg Lusink found herself holding court when she was inadvertently beamed onto the big screen. They didnt get as big a shock as the host herself, who had asked to attend the celebration over Zoom from her Carlton apartment, and instead unexpectedly found her face beamed onto the big screen. Used to thinking on her feet after a storied courtroom career as Victorias first female judge, Lusink quickly accepted her new gig as unofficial MC with grace and entertained the crowd, telling stories from her days at the regional library.
Bus drivers who say theyre working in dangerous and increasingly violent conditions are using electrification of the states public bus network to push for major workplace reforms.

As part of the negotiations, the Andrews government has agreed to the unions request to set up a new committee to discuss improving safety on public transport.

The first of eight electric buses to be rolled out as part of the Victorian governments zero emission bus trial from November.

The Victorian government is tendering for seven new bus contracts in Melbourne, which will be responsible for a fleet of up to 625 buses and cover as much as 30 per cent of the network.

Each contract will begin from July 1, 2025, and the successful companies will be expected by the end of the 10-year term to have converted their entire operations to zero-emissions buses.
Matt Golding Credit: .

To submit a letter to The Age, email letters@theage.com.au. Please include your home address and telephone number. No attachments, please include your letter in the body of the email. See here for our rules and tips on getting your letter published.

The referendum in 1967 asked for two minor changes to the Constitution. It asked that Aboriginal people would no longer be excluded from the census, thereby validating their existence. To that time, within the history of our Commonwealth of Australia, Aboriginal people did not exist. It also asked that the Commonwealth, our federal parliament, be able to legislate in relation to Indigenous peoples. The resounding vote of the 1967 referendum was Yes. That vote said we, the Australian people, recognise you. We recognise you as the First Nations people of Australia as a collective being.

This years referendum simply asks all Australians to hear First Nations people. Nothing more, nothing less. We recognised them half a century ago, yet we have never put in place a way to communicate their needs.

The referendum will allow the parliament to design a Voice to parliament of First Nations people. The Constitution does not do the detail, as Peter Dutton understands yet criticises. It is the responsibility of parliament. Each parliament has the right to determine what that Voice is, and, with a Yes vote, there will always be a Voice. It comes down to: we recognised the First People in 1967, now, are we courageous enough to want to hear them?

Tom Stafford, Wheelers Hill

The No vote needs to document its reasoning

In relation to your correspondent (Letters, 28/8), I agree with the right of people to have an opinion about the Voice without being pilloried as racist or selfish (unless that is their intention). But what are the considered, well-documented reasons being referred to for being against the Voice? I read again the full-page open letter to The Age from August 1 from eight senior judges of federal and state jurisdictions, who put forward well-reasoned arguments for supporting the Voice. They say it will enhance Australian governance. This is their training and profession  to weigh up the alternative arguments. I have seen no such plausible, well-reasoned proposition for the No case. If most No voters care about the plight of Indigenous Australians, what are their reasons for voting No?

Ian Shrives, Northcote

Consider the impact on Indigenous people

Those decrying the occasional negative labelling of No voters (Letters, 28/8) cant be aware of the language that is being used by some to defend their position. I am not concerned about the undermining labelling of Yes voters as a group of elites and unrealistic do-gooders, although this goes on as well. Much more serious are the hostile, ill-informed comments about Indigenous people and their culture that some people now seem emboldened to express. Online or in person, these are confronting views to encounter when all that has happened is a modest request from Indigenous people to have a say on matters pertaining to their welfare and to enshrine this so it doesnt keep changing with each government. I can only imagine what it is like for Indigenous Australians to hear these things said about them. As has been said before, not all No voters will be racist, but all racists will vote No.

Liz Telford, Clifton Hill
The woman at the centre of an investigation into a poisonous mushroom meal that resulted in the deaths of three people in Gippsland has visited her lawyers in Melbourne as the police continue to examine the incident.

Don and Gail Patterson and Heather and Ian Wilkinson fell ill after ingesting what is suspected to be highly toxic fungus during a lunch at the Leongatha home of Erin Patterson, 48, who is Don and Gails daughter-in-law.

Erin Patterson leaves her lawyers office after a meeting on Tuesday. Credit: Chris Hopkins

Don and Gail Patterson and Heather Wilkinson died in hospital. Pastor Ian Wilkinson, Heathers husband, suffered liver damage and was in the Austin Hospital earlier this month in a critical but stable condition. A family spokesperson confirmed last week that his condition was improving.

The 48-year-old woman has strenuously denied any wrongdoing.
Fire Rescue Victoria said the car was reversed into the two-storey building housing the Hadfield Finest Fruit & Veg store just after 3am, warping the stores door and breaking the windows. Firefighters discovered an LPG tank in the back of the vehicle. The syndicate has spread to extorting shop owners nationwide, including in South Australia and Western Australia. The trade is estimated to be worth millions  even tens of millions  of dollars each year to the racketeers. And these profits are being ploughed back into criminal activities like drug trafficking and money laundering, six police and underworld sources say. The racket exploded into public consciousness following more than a dozen arson attacks on tobacco shops stretching from Hoppers Crossing to Wangaratta since late March.

Police are investigating the cause of a suspicious fire at a tobacconist on Young Street in Moonee Ponds. Credit: Nine News No one has been injured in the firebombings yet, but police say thats down to sheer luck. Once a fire is started, its impossible to control. Its a real worry. These fools, without any planning, are setting shops on fire. It could be the family upstairs asleep that dies, Detective Inspector Chris Murray, from Victoria Polices arson and explosives squad, told The Age. The market is being cornered by different players, including well-known Middle Eastern crime gangs and outlaw motorcycle clubs, who see these isolated tobacco shops as soft targets that can be easily exploited. The shakedowns have been running for more than a year, but largely flew under the radar until the gangs began torching recalcitrant retailers and the protected shops of their rivals.

A Moonee Ponds tobacco and vape store linked to Sam The Punisher Abdulrahim was set alight on three separate occasions in late May and early June. Abdulrahim has previously denied his connection to the business despite promoting it on social media before the attack. The Age is not suggesting that Abdulrahim is himself part of any crime gang or involved in the illegal tobacco trade, only that a shop linked to him was a victim of recent attacks. A tobacco shop linked to a notorious crime family that operates in Melbournes western and northern suburbs was also torched earlier this month. Members of the Finks outlaw motorcycle gang were recently arrested after attempting to stand over a shop owner in Eltham. Victoria Police has had no interest in the illegal tobacco trade until now, Murray said. But when we start to see serious crime emanating from what is essentially a turf war about who is going to dominate the illegal tobacco market, we become very interested. If its a gap that serious and organised crime think they will be allowed to fill, then think again. Stupidly, they are turning a spotlight on themselves.

The gangs have been drawn into the market by the massive profits that can be made with relatively low risk compared to drug trafficking. The underworld source said a full-sized shipping container, which can hold up to 15 million cigarettes, is worth about $4 million in profit. A packet of cigarettes bought for $2-$5 overseas and smuggled into Australia can be sold for $16 to $20 each when a legally purchased packet costs $30 to $40 or more. With the price of cigarettes in Australia to increase by 5 per cent in September, law enforcement agencies say the illicit market will only become more alluring.

The aftermath of a suspicious fire in Melbournes northern suburbs. Credit: Nine You can make money easier with cigarettes than drugs. Whats the penalty for getting caught making $4 million on tobacco compared to $4 million on cocaine or meth? More than a decade in jail, the underworld source said. Historically, illicit tobacco trafficking has been viewed as a victimless crime, federal law enforcement authorities say. Loading The discrepancy between the prison sentences for importing hard drugs as opposed to tobacco is a major concern among state and federal law enforcement agencies, which have been lobbying the government to increase the penalties.

There needs to be tougher penalties, said Murray. Its low risk, high reward. Looking through their eyes, they see it as very low risk. Australian Border Force officers intercepted more than 120,000 shipments of illicit tobacco at the border in the past financial year alone, the equivalent of $3.5 billion in lost government revenue. Deputy Commissioner Tim Fitzgerald said the agency had fought to increase penalties for tobacco smuggling to include custodial sentences of up to 10 years, but it was ultimately up to judges and magistrates to dish out tougher penalties. Loading Were still in the process of educating the courts around the ramifications of tobacco, how organised crime is involved in using it for drug trafficking and money laundering, Fitzgerald said.

In 2018, property developer turned cigarette smuggler Nabil Grege received a four-year jail sentence with a minimum of 18 months for illegally importing 18 million cigarettes worth $6.2 million in lost taxes. Last year, a Victorian man was jailed for a minimum of 18 months on a three-year sentence for evading import duties worth $8.5 million on 10 million cigarettes. Fitzgerald said more work was needed to further regulate the market and give additional powers to his agency to tackle the illicit trade. Victoria is among the last jurisdictions in Australia that do not require traders to obtain a licence to sell tobacco products. We need to do more work on the licensing regime associated with tobacco and vaping, he said. These criminal syndicates are sophisticated and run like a business, so theyll do whatever it takes to ensure that they continue to bring a profit at the expense of legitimate business owners and obviously the wider Australian community.
The Victorian government has told the competition watchdog that it fears CityLink owner Transurban will become too powerful if it is allowed to buy EastLink and gain a monopoly over toll roads in Melbourne.

Victorias pushback against Transurban comes as the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) decides whether to block the tolling giant from buying the 39-kilometre freeway between Mitcham and Frankston, with concerns it could damage the states finances in the long term.

Transurban wants to buy a controlling stake in EastLink. Credit: Wayne Hawkins

Transurban  which already operates CityLink and will run the new West Gate Tunnel in Victoria when it opens in late 2025  confirmed in February it was interested in buying a controlling stake in EastLink from a consortium of pension funds called Horizon Roads.

Victoria has previously declined to weigh in on the EastLink sale, but a government spokesman confirmed to The Age that it had made a submission to the ACCC outlining its concerns with the proposed transaction.
Australian-made cardboard drones have been reportedly used to help bomb a Russian airfield as the Ukrainian military steps up its attacks on Russian territory.

Ukraine claimed it struck five Russian fighter jets on the weekend in a kamikaze drone attack on the Kursk airfield in Russia, approximately 170 kilometres from the Ukrainian-Russian border.

SYPAQs drones, made largely of waxed cardboard and rubber bands, have been sent to Ukraine in flatpacks.

A prominent Telegram channel run by a former Russian fighter pilot, known as Fighterbomber, said that the drones used in the attack included the distinctive lightweight drones made by Australian engineering company SYPAQ in Melbourne.

Tonight, [Ukrainians] used them in a swarm, mixing drones with warheads with empty drones, the Telegram post read. I dont know exactly what engines were on the drones, but if they were electric-powered, then they were not launched from Ukraine.
KYODO NEWS - Aug 29, 2023 - 09:26 | All, Japan, World

The U.S. government has approved the potential sale to Japan of air-to-surface missiles and related equipment for an estimated cost of $104 million, the State Department said Monday.

The Defense Security Cooperation Agency notified Congress of the plan regarding the extended-range missiles, also known as JASSM-ER, earlier in the day.

The Japanese government has requested to buy up to 50 of the missiles, the agency said, adding that the proposed sale will help the United States improve the security of "a major ally that is a force for political stability and economic progress in the Indo-Pacific region."

The missiles will be mounted on Japan's Air Self-Defense Force F-15 and other fighter jets, it said in a statement, noting also that the plan will neither change the basic military balance in the region nor cause an adverse impact on U.S. defense readiness.

In the face of serious security challenges posed by China and North Korea, the Japanese government updated its key defense documents late last year, vowing to acquire so-called counterstrike, or enemy base strike, capabilities in a major policy shift under the country's war-renouncing Constitution.

As part of such efforts, Japan has become more active in acquiring and developing long-range missiles.

Related coverage:

Japan to design new missile for next-gen fighter jets: source

Japanese F-35 fighter jets visit Australia in 1st deployment abroad
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 Australians are being asked to choose between two futures in a decision on national power that will be shaped by a ruthless personal contest between two leaders. Anthony Albanese begins the formal campaign for the Indigenous Voice with a bid to cement the reform, trounce his opponents and finish a personal mission from the night he won office last year. Peter Dutton heads toward the referendum with an opportunity to defeat the Voice, diminish the prime minister and turn the No voters against Labor on other fronts. For both leaders, this campaign is about defining their legacies as well as shaping the nations furure. Credit: Fairfax Media The personal contest will shape the race to the referendum  expected to be October 14  because the prime minister and opposition leader so easily dominate daily media coverage. The Voice is bigger than both leaders because it is, or should be, about the best way to help some of the most disadvantaged people in Australian society. Voters are accustomed to the campaign drumbeat of a federal election in which the attention on the two leaders can give way at times to a dispute over competing policy details.

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The policy debate on the Voice, however, has been narrowed from the start. The fundamental strategy for the Yes side, agreed by Albanese with Indigenous leaders, is to seek approval for the Voice in theory before deciding how it works in practice. How will First Nations people choose the members of the Voice? How many members will there be? How many staff will those members have? Will there be local and regional Voices beneath the peak national body? Once the Constitution specifies that the Voice must exist, how will federal legislation determine how the Voice offers its opinions to parliament and government? The referendum campaign will be clouded by the mystery over how the Voice might work. The Yes campaigners want to keep the debate on high principle without venturing any opinions on what comes after the vote. Who do they want to be on the Voice? They would prefer to take that question later.

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The No campaigners use the mystery to spread fear, uncertainty and doubt. One peak group, Fair Australia, claims the Voice will be expensive when this is impossible to know because the size and cost of the new body has not been decided. It claims it will be a Canberra politicians voice when the location and composition of the body are not known. Loading Fair Australia also says the Voice opens the door to separate parliaments and Indigenous-only seats in parliament when this can only be speculation. The compulsory vote asks Australians to choose between two paths whether they are ready or not. The deadline forces a decision on history even if voters cannot be sure if the Yes side has a plan that works or the No side has a plan at all. The compulsory vote asks Australians to choose between two paths whether they are ready or not. Albanese seeks to reassure Australians by calling the referendum a modest request that offers a better way to consult on policy. He links the Voice to the core issue: the entrenched disadvantage for First Nations people. He argues for consultation with the Voice to help close the gap in the outcomes on health, education, life expectancy, incarceration and more. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese at the official opening of this years Garma festival. Credit: Rhett Wyman

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When you listen to people about matters that affect them, you get better results, the prime minister told an FM radio station on Tuesday. Thats all that this is about. An advisory group, a Voice, so that can get better results. Dutton says No to a constitutional Voice because the change would be permanent and the government cannot be trusted. The Voice is in the Constitution, it cant be abolished. If the government gets it wrong  as many people believe they will  you cant undo the Constitution, he said in Brisbane on Monday. Dutton argues for local and regional voices without any detail on how they might work as an alternative to the government model. The Coalition party room is divided on the basic concept of whether a national Voice should be set up in legislation without being in the Constitution. Opposition Leader Peter Dutton with the newly promoted Kerrynne Liddle (left) and Jacinta Nampijimpa Price on Tuesday, April 18, two weeks after announcing the Liberal party would formally oppose the Voice. Credit: AAP Both sides say they want to close the gap. Which side has a better way? This is an essential question in the campaign to come. The evidence shows the old way of doing things has failed to lift First Nations people out of their poverty, which means a Yes vote would start a debate in parliament on the federal legislation needed to build a new approach to consultation.

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A No vote, however, would be followed by a policy vacuum. How could Albanese set up a legislated Voice if a constitutional Voice had just been rejected at the ballot box? Would Dutton bother with proposing a policy at all? Defeat at the referendum would also mean defeat for Indigenous recognition in the Constitution, and Yes campaign leader Noel Pearson has described this as a setback for reconciliation that would last a generation. A No vote, however, would be followed by a policy vacuum. I shudder to think of an Australia that rejects recognition. All I can see is a future of perpetual protest and struggle, Pearson wrote in January. Loading This seemed to be a dire forecast at the time, when support for the Voice was at 58 per cent in the Resolve Political Monitor. That support fell to 46 per cent in the latest survey. Defeat for the Voice is now the more likely outcome  and this has implications beyond the Voice itself.

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A NSW doctor has been referred to the medical board for investigation of his clinical conduct after the coroner found he withheld antibiotics from a patient who subsequently died.

Grandmother Maureen Anne Smith, 75, died in Armidale Rural Referral Hospital on April 1, 2018, following systematic errors that resulted in a delay of her transfer between hospitals, and a delay in the commencement of antibiotics.

Dr Robert Jauncy Hakwa Natukokona has been referred to the Medical Council of NSW by the Coroner for investigation of his clinical conduct.

That meant, Deputy State Coroner Harriet Grahame wrote, that her prospects of survival were diminished by the fact that she ultimately did not receive appropriate care.

Smith was initially admitted to Glen Innes District Hospital suffering uncontrolled pain, and following a conversation between the locum medical officer at Glen Innes and the accepting orthopaedic registrar at Armidale, a decision was made to transfer Smith for a knee aspiration.
More than 1.3 million commuter minutes could be saved across south-east Queensland daily by building a mix of new accommodation closer to where people work, government planners have estimated.

The new South-East Queensland Regional Plan stipulates that 100,000 of the 900,000 new dwellings needed to house an extra 2.2 million residents by 2046 must be close to public transport.

Smarter development could shave a total of more than 1.3 million minutes off commute times daily in south-east Queensland. Credit: Dan Peled

State government planners combined travel data from the 2021 census with population data to estimate the impact of living closer to work, where there are more likely to be public transport connections, rather than on a citys fringe.

The data, released by Planning Minister Steven Miles, reflects the push towards providing more townhouses, duplexes and units behind existing houses (also known as Fonzie flats).
Kyiv: Ukrainian forces pierced the first line of Russian fortifications in the nations south-east and were fighting to widen the breach, the nations defence chief said, in a bid for a potential breakthrough.

Defence Minister Oleksii Reznikov said that Ukrainian soldiers, on foot and mostly at night, had made slow progress in clearing heavily mined areas to create approach corridors for a larger force that has now fought through the first main line of Russian trenches, bunkers and tanks traps.

A Ukrainian soldier watches a Grad multiple launch rocket system firing shells with flyers near Bakhmut, Donetsk region. Credit: AP

We broke the first line and now we are expanding our foothold, Reznikov told reporters on Monday in Kyiv.

The Ukrainian counteroffensive launched in June has been bogged down by Russian forces dug in along a vast frontline stretching from the Donbas region in Ukraines east through the south to the mouth of the Dnipro river. The slow-going has worried Ukraines allies, who say a long fight risks giving Russian President Vladimir Putin the upper hand in a war of attrition.
St. Petersburg, Russia: A private burial was held for Yevgeny Prigozhin, ending a tumultuous journey from St. Petersburg street thug to Kremlin-financed mercenary leader, following a suspicious plane crash two months after his brief mutiny that challenged the authority of President Vladimir Putin.

His spokespeople said on Tuesday that a service took place behind closed doors, and directed those who wish to bid their farewell to the 62-year-old head of the Wagner private military contractor to go to the Porokhovskoye cemetery in his hometown. Their statement ended media speculation on where and when Prigozhin would be laid to rest, with his funeral shrouded in secrecy.

Flowers are seen on the grave of Wagner Groups chief Yevgeny Prigozhin after a funeral at the Porokhovskoye cemetery in St. Petersburg, Russia. Credit: AP

A wooden cross towered over his flower-covered grave. Nearby stood a Russian tricolor and a black Wagner flag. Russian media cited unidentified sources as saying Prigozhin was laid to rest on Tuesday without any publicity, per his familys wishes.

Members of the Russian National Guard were stationed along the fence at the cemetery, steering visitors away after it closed for the day.
The Importance of Timely Action After a Car Accident







Picture this: You're driving down a busy road, minding your own business, when suddenly, out of nowhere, another vehicle crashes into yours. The impact is jarring, leaving you shaken and overwhelmed with the aftermath. Amidst the chaos, your safety becomes your top priority, and seeking medical attention is crucial if you or anyone else is injured. But did you know that amid all this, time is ticking away, and there's a critical aspect you shouldn't overlook?

When injured in a car accident, acting promptly can make all the difference between receiving fair compensation for your injuries and facing potential challenges. Timely legal action is just as necessary as seeking medical care. As you navigate through the complexities of the aftermath, enlisting the help of experienced lawyers can guide you toward justice and rightful compensation for the damages you've suffered.

The statute of limitations looms over car accident victims, imposing strict time limits on filing a lawsuit to claim damages for injuries and property damage caused by the negligence of others. It's something to be taken seriously, and that's why consulting dedicated professionals like Dolman Law Group Accident Injury Lawyers is crucial to ensure you take advantage of your window of opportunity to seek justice and protect your rights. In this article, we'll delve into the significance of timely action after a car accident and how experienced attorneys can be your strongest ally in this pursuit.

What Is The Statute Of Limitations In Car Accidents?

The statute of limitations is a crucial aspect of the legal process for victims of auto accidents. It sets the deadline within which they must file a lawsuit to claim damages from the responsible party. However, this deadline varies from state to state, making it essential for victims to be aware of their specific time frame.

In states like Kentucky and Louisiana, victims typically have one year from the date of injury or discovery of harm to initiate their lawsuit after an auto accident. On the other hand, states like California may allow up to three years for filing lawsuits in cases of severe personal injury resulting in death due to motor vehicle accidents.

Why Is Timely Action Essential After A Car Accident?

Timing can make all the difference when settling insurance claims or winning financial damages through litigation.



 Preserving Evidence: Timely action after a car accident is crucial for keeping evidence. Witness memories fade, and physical evidence can deteriorate or be altered. By acting promptly, you can secure eligible evidence such as photographs of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and other relevant evidence supporting your claim.

 Obtaining Witness Testimonies: Eyewitness accounts are vital in car accident cases. When you act quickly, you have a better chance of locating and getting statements from helpful eyewitnesses. Their testimonies can strengthen your case and provide critical information about the events leading up to the accident.

 Compiling Necessary Paperwork: Initiating legal action promptly allows your lawyer to collect essential paperwork, such as police reports and medical records. Gathering this evidence early on ensures that no crucial information is missed, mainly when the accident occurred far away or some time ago.

 Preserving Your Right to Seek Legal Remedies: Waiting too long to file a claim may result in losing your right to seek legal remedies altogether. Insurance companies and at-fault drivers may argue it's too late to pursue compensation, leaving you without recourse for your injuries and damages.

 Timely Medical Attention: Seeking immediate medical attention after an accident is crucial for your health and well-being. Some injuries may not be apparent right away and can worsen over time. By getting medical treatment early on, you can address any damages promptly and prevent potential long-term complications. Insurance companies may be skeptical of claims that lack prompt medical attention.

bull; Insurance Coverage Period: Insurance companies generally only cover damages identified and reported during the coverage period. Failing to report the accident and injuries promptly could lead to complications when seeking compensation from your insurance provider.

 Avoiding Unnecessary Delays: Acting promptly after a car accident can help prevent unnecessary delays in the claims process. Quick action ensures that all necessary steps are taken without wasting time, enabling a smoother and faster resolution to your case.

 Preserving Common Law Rights Defenses: In some cases, legal principles like negligence or strict liability have specific time limitations for filing claims. Please initiate timely legal action to maintain the ability to rely on these defenses.

What Should You Do After A Car Accident?

Following the below steps can significantly improve your chances of obtaining fair compensation for the damages and injuries resulting from the auto accident. Consulting an experienced lawyer will guide you through the process and ensure your rights are protected.

 Prioritize Safety: After an auto accident, the first and most crucial step is to ensure your safety and the safety of others involved. Seek medical attention for any injuries and move to a safe location.

 Gather Witness Information: Obtain contact details from witnesses who saw the accident, as their testimonies can be valuable evidence in your case.

 Document Damages: Take pictures of the accident scene, including vehicle damage and any relevant messages, to preserve crucial physical evidence.

 Call an Experienced Lawyer: Contact an experienced lawyer specializing in personal injury cases to handle the legal aspects of your claim and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

 Avoid Admitting Fault: Refrain from accepting blame or admitting fault when communicating with other drivers, as any statements could be used against you in court.

 Stay Calm and Cooperative: Maintain a calm demeanor while resolving issues at the accident scene and await assistance from authorities.

 Preserve Evidence: Help your lawyer by preserving possible physical evidence and providing witness accounts to support your case.

 Produce Needed Exhibits: Assist your lawyer in producing necessary exhibits, such as photographs and eyewitness testimonies, to strengthen your claim.

Conclusion

Taking immediate action after car accidents is vital due to the statute of limitations governing personal injury cases resulting from motor vehicle accidents, which varies by state but typically ranges from 12 months to four years. Delaying legal action can weaken the chances of a favorable verdict and total compensation for damages. By acting promptly and seeking the guidance of experienced injury attorneys, victims can improve their prospects of obtaining a satisfactory resolution and regaining peace and security. Being well-prepared and moving forward decisively can lead to a more robust pursuit of justice, allowing individuals to find closure and restore their lives with greater confidence and resilience.
KYODO NEWS - Aug 29, 2023 - 21:55 | World, All, 3/11 Fukushima

Reputational damage to Japanese products and services is feared to widen in China following the release of treated radioactive water from the wrecked Fukushima nuclear complex into the sea, with many canceling trips to Japan and online boycott campaigns targeting items such as cosmetics.

Against the background of growing anti-Japan sentiment triggered by the ocean discharge that started last week, Chinese authorities have apparently taken no action to stop online appeals in the country for boycotting Japanese products.

The Global Times, a tabloid affiliated with China's ruling Communist Party, has said several travel agencies have reported the cancellation of Japan-bound trips, with many companies planning to reduce their promotions for the National Day holidays from late September.

The paper said Chinese tourists' enthusiasm for traveling to Japan during the holidays has significantly waned, citing a newlywed couple who switched their honeymoon destination to another country after the water release started.

Japan is "not an irreplaceable tourist destination" and its "irresponsible behavior is unacceptable," the couple said, according to the daily. China had said earlier this month it will resume Japan-bound group tours after a hiatus of more than three years caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

China remains strongly opposed to the Fukushima water release, calling it "nuclear-contaminated," and has introduced a total ban on seafood imports from the neighboring country.

Local media have also reported on Chinese consumers' concerns over the safety of Japanese cosmetics following the water release.

Beijing Business Today has said many consumers have started to return purchased Japanese cosmetic items and posted on social media the lists of brands that should be avoided.

The business paper said a Chinese loyal user of SK-II who has used products of the Japanese cosmetic brand over the past seven or eight years was determined to find replacements after using up stocks due to concerns over the Fukushima water discharge.

Related coverage:

Japan hints at complaint to WTO over China's seafood import ban

China tightens Japan food inspection at retailers, eateries

Kishida says Fukushima water-linked harassment by China deplorable
Rena Murshud

The governor of the Sverdlovsk region, Yevgeny Kuyvashev, apologized to the Azerbaijani ambassador to Russia, Polad Bulbuloglu, in connection with the scandal with the chairman of the Yekaterinburg City Duma, Igor Volodin, who took part in an event directed against the territorial integrity and sovereignty of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Azernews reports.

According to the information policy department of the region, Yevgeny Kuyvashev expressed hope for a resolution of the situation. After this scandal, Volodin will not be a speaker in the new convocation of the City Duma.

It should be noted that earlier the Azerbaijani Embassy sent a note of protest to the Russian Foreign Ministry in connection with the event organized on August 7, 2023, in Yekaterinburg on the occasion of the "30th anniversary of the formation of the Talish-Mugan Autonomous Republic."

In addition, Ambassador Polad Bulbul oglu addressed a letter to the governor of the Sverdlovsk region, Yevgeny Kuyvashev, reflecting the principled position and strong protest of Azerbaijan. Along with this, Shakhin Shykhlinski, head of the Azerbaijan-Ural public national-cultural organization operating in Yekaterinburg, sent appeals to the relevant administrative bodies of the city.

It was brought to the attention of the Russian side that the organization of such an event of a provocative nature and participation in it as a guest of the Chairman of the Yekaterinburg City Duma Igor Volodin is unacceptable, this step of the representative of the ruling party of Russia promotes separatism, fundamentally contradicts the spirit of allied interaction between Azerbaijan and Russia, and also damages bilateral cooperation.

An urgent request was made to take immediate measures against Igor Volodin and the organizers of this event, as well as measures to prevent such provocative steps against the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Azerbaijan in the future.
KYODO NEWS - Aug 29, 2023 - 19:56 | All, Japan, World

Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said Tuesday that he told Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy that Japan will continue supporting the European country, which has been at war with Russia since February 2022.

After holding phone talks with the president, Kishida told reporters at his office that Zelenskyy expressed gratitude for Japan's efforts to provide assistance to Ukraine, while condemning Russia's prolonged aggression against its neighbor.

The telephone conversation followed a planned bilateral meeting in July during the NATO summit in Lithuania that failed to materialize due to extended discussions. At that time, the two leaders only managed a brief exchange.

Their talk comes ahead of the Group of 20 summit in India next month, where Kishida plans to confirm the importance of assistance for Ukraine and ongoing sanctions against Russia with other leaders. Russia is expected to attend the gathering.

During talks on the sidelines of the Group of Seven summit in May in Hiroshima, Kishida told Zelenskyy that Japan would supply some 100 vehicles from its Self-Defense Forces, including small trucks and material carriers, to Ukraine as part of its assistance.

Arrangements are also being made to hold a conference on Ukraine's reconstruction in Japan early next year.

Related coverage:

Japan's expanded blacklist for exports to Russia takes effect

Japan pledges more support to Ukraine during finance dialogue

Japan grants long-term visas to 2 Russians who oppose Ukraine war
KYODO NEWS - Aug 29, 2023 - 09:00 | World, All

U.S. President Joe Biden will travel to Hanoi on Sept. 10 to meet with Vietnamese leaders and discuss ways to increase peace and stability around the Southeast Asian country, the White House said Monday, amid China's maritime assertiveness.

The leaders Biden is set to meet in the Vietnamese capital to "deepen the cooperation" will include the chief of the country's ruling Communist Party Nguyen Phu Trong, according to White House spokeswoman Karine Jean-Pierre.

She told a press briefing that the leaders will also seek to promote the growth of an innovation-driven Vietnamese economy, expand people-to-people exchanges and combat climate change.

The trip was announced about three weeks after Biden said he would visit Vietnam "shortly" during an off-camera campaign reception, without specifying when it would take place.

Biden will make the one-day visit after attending a summit of the Group of 20 major economies in India.

U.S. officials have long sought to forge stronger ties with Vietnam, believing the step is vital in advancing a free and open Indo-Pacific in the face of China's growing clout in the region.

In April, Secretary of State Antony Blinken traveled to Vietnam, which is embroiled in a long-standing territorial dispute with China in the South China Sea. Last month, Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen also visited Hanoi to meet with senior officials and agreed with them to forge closer relations.

Biden in late March spoke over the phone with the ruling party's general secretary, the most powerful figure in Vietnam, and discussed "the importance of strengthening and expanding the bilateral relationship," while noting that 2023 is the 10th anniversary of the two countries' comprehensive partnership, the White House said at the time.

The spokeswoman also announced that Biden will stop in Alaska the day after his Hanoi trip to mark the 22nd anniversary of the Sept. 11 attacks on the United States by taking part in a ceremony with members of the military and their families.
KYODO NEWS - Aug 29, 2023 - 15:49 | All, Japan, World

Japanese ministers indicated Tuesday the government might file a complaint to the World Trade Organization over China's decision to ban all Japanese seafood imports after treated radioactive water began being released into the sea from the crippled Fukushima nuclear plant.

Economic security minister Sanae Takaichi told a press conference, "We are entering a stage where we should consider countermeasures" against the import restrictions imposed by China, including filing a complaint to the global trade body, if "lodging a protest through a diplomatic channel is not effective."

Foreign Minister Yoshimasa Hayashi also said at a separate news conference that Japan will take "necessary steps under frameworks such as the WTO" and underscored the importance of "close communication" between the two countries, in order to maintain a "constructive" relationship.

Hayashi urged Beijing to immediately lift its import ban, imposed Thursday shortly after the nuclear complex began discharging the water into the Pacific Ocean, saying the measure is "not based on scientific grounds."

The two Asian powers have been at odds over the safety of the water being released from the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant, which was severely damaged by the 2011 earthquake and tsunami, placing further strain on their unstable bilateral ties.

Seen as a critical step toward decommissioning the facility, the water discharge began after the International Atomic Energy Agency concluded in a report last month that the plan aligns with global safety standards.

Most radionuclides, except tritium, are removed from the water before discharge.

The Chinese government, however, has aired concerns about the impact of what it calls the "nuclear-contaminated" water and imposed the seafood import ban to "protect people's lives and health."

China has also prohibited food production operators from purchasing or using seafood originating in Japan to process for sale.

According to the Japanese central and local governments and plant operator Tokyo Electric Power Company Holdings Inc., no detectable amounts of tritium have been found in seawater samples taken near the site of the Fukushima complex.

The governments of Hong Kong and Macao, both semiautonomous regions of China, have banned seafood imports from Fukushima and nine other prefectures, with Macao having also banned various other food items from the areas.

Related coverage:

China tightens Japan food inspection at retailers, eateries

Kishida says Fukushima water-linked harassment by China deplorable

Radiation level of seawater off Fukushima below limits: Japan gov't
19,000 patwaris on strike, many public related works affected





Staff Reporter

After a three-day mass holiday and demonstration at Bhopals Atal Path, a total of 19,000 patwaris of the State have gone on strike in Madhya Pradesh from Monday. On Monday after 11 am, they deposited the bags in the tehsils. Many works related to the public will be stuck due to the strike. Especially seven important works like nomination and caste certificate done by patwaris will not be done. President of Madhya Pradesh Patwaris Sangh Upendra Singh said, Patwaris across the State are depositing their bags in Tehsil offices. After this the pen down strike has started. Bhopal District President Sandeep Sharma told that all the Patwaris of the district are depositing their bags. For almost 25 years, they have been demanding grade-pay and promotion, but till now the government has not even paid attention.

Collectors in the districts of the State including Bhopal have made alternative arrangements to ensure that the work is not affected due to the Patwaris going on strike.

Revenue Inspector has been entrusted with the work of Patwaris. Despite this, the work will be affected, because the revenue inspectors already have a lot of work. Due to the Patwaris going on strike, the work of renaming, EWS certificate, caste certificate, election work, crop girdawari, PM-CM payment and making panchnama at the scene with the police are being affected. Patwaris of Madhya Pradesh are doing phased agitation. In the first phase, from August 21, all had left the government group and boycotted online work. In the second phase, from August 23 to 25, they were on mass leave for three days. Tiranga Yatra was taken out in Bhopal on August 26. After this, they went on a mass strike from August 28.
Authorities deny permission for yatra in Nuh





NUH (Haryana),

THE Nuh administration on Monday allowed 15 seers and leaders of Right-wing groups to offer prayers at the Shiv temple in Nalhar area of this district in Haryana which has been turned into a fortress in view of the Sarv Jatiya Hindu Mahapanchayats call for a shobha yatra. Authorities have denied permission for the yatra on Monday in the aftermath of the communal clashes on July 31. However, the locals have been allowed to offer prayers in the temples in their neighbourhood on the last Monday of the holy month of Shravan. Heavy security arrangements have been put in place in view of the call for the yatra and some seers heading towards Nuh were stopped at Gurugram, police officials said. Five major checkpoints have been set up from the Delhi-Gurugram border until Nuh with media vehicles not being allowed to go beyond the third checkpoint.

According to officials, the vehicle of Hindu seer Jagatguru Paramhans Acharya from Ayodhya was stopped at the Ghamorj toll plaza near Sohna. Acharya told reporters that he and his followers were carrying the water of the Saryu river and the soil of Ayodhya for the jalabhishek at Nalhar temple but were stopped by the police. In protest, he sat on a hunger strike near the toll plaza. Nuh Deputy Commissioner Dhirendra Khadgata said around 15 seers and leaders of some Hindutva outfits have been allowed to visit the Shiv temple in Nalhar and they will perform jalabhishek there. Bajrang Dals Gurugram district convenor Praveen Hindustani told PTI that a limited number of people took part in the yatra and they have now left for Jhir temple in a bus amid tight security.

Meanwhile, Hindu rights leader Kulbhushan Bhardwaj claimed that Hindu leaders have been put under house arrest by the Haryana Government. Posters were pasted on the walls of a few shops in a slum in Gurugram, asking Muslims to leave the place by Monday or face consequences. The posters came up at a slum in Sector 69. In a complaint registered in this regard, Mojed said he found the poster on the wall of his tea shop on Sunday morning. He alleged that the poster carried the names of VHP and Bajrang Dal and asked all Muslims to vacate leave by Monday or be responsible for their death.
CM apprises Governor of demands of OBCs





Staff Reporter

RAIPUR,

Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel has written a letter to Governor Biswabhusan Harichandan, requesting him to arrange time for meeting at the request of the Chhattisgarh OBC Mahasabha and the Chhattisgarh Backward Classes Welfare Association. Chief Minister Baghel mentioned in the letter that during the OBC Mahasammelan, which was held in Raipur on August 27, he was informed by the Chhattisgarh OBC Mahasabha and Chhattisgarh Backward Classes Welfare Association that they want to meet the Governor regarding their pending demands. Accordingly, the Chief Minister requested the Governor to allot time to the delegation of Chhattisgarh OBC Mahasabha and Chhattisgarh Backward Classes Welfare Association and consider their demands sympathetically.

It is worth mentioning that the Chhattisgarh OBC Mahasabha and the Chhattisgarh Backward Classes Welfare Association met the Chief Minister Baghel on Sunday and placed their demand in the context of providing benefits to the OBC category in the public welfare schemes of the government. The Sangh had prominently placed the demand to implement a 27 per cent OBC reservation at the earliest. On this occasion, the Sangh had also requested Chief Minister Baghel to arrange meeting with Governor Biswabhusan Harichandan regarding various pending demands.
CMs letter to PM is bundle of lies: Choudhary





Staff Reporter

RAIPUR,

Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghels letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi has inadvertently shed light on the substantial contribution of the Central Government to paddy procurement, despite the Chief Ministers attempts to portray the Centre negatively. Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) State General Secretary O P Choudhary said while addressing the press on Monday. Choudhary noted that the letter indirectly confirmed what BJP leaders had been asserting for some time  the BJP-led Central Governments significant financial involvement in rice procurement. The Chief Ministers claims of minimal Central Governments participation have been debunked by the contents of the letter. The Food Corporation of India (FCI) website clarifies the central role of FCI and State Agencies in wheat and paddy procurement, emphasising the objective of ensuring profitable prices for farmers.

Choudhary stressed that FCI shoulders the procurement expenses, suggesting that if the Chief Minister disagrees, legal recourse is available. Comparative data from the years 2017-18 to 2022-23 reveal a dramatic increase in rice procurement. In 2017-18, the central pool rice procurement target was 24 lakh metric tons (LMT), derived from 36 LMT of paddy. In 2021-22, the central pool quota surged to 61 LMT, equivalent to 92 LMT of paddy, with actual procurement reaching 95 LMT. Similarly, in 2022-23, with a central pool target of 61 LMT (from 92 LMT of paddy), Chhattisgarh procured 1.07 crore metric tons (CMT) of paddy, accounting for 86% of total procurement. A state assembly session compelled Minister Amarjeet Bhagat to acknowledge that the Central Government contributed Rs 51,000 crore, in contrast to the states Rs 13,000 crore, for paddy procurement over four years. The recently increased rice procurement quota from 61 LMT to 86.5 LMT (equivalent to 1.60 CMT of paddy) for 2023-24 reinforces the Central Governments pivotal role. This escalation supports Chief Minister Baghels announcement of a substantial increase in paddy procurement. Choudhary criticised the Congress Governments apparent desire to claim undeserved credit and challenged the Chief Minister to refute the presented facts. In a symbolic gesture, the BJP has offered Ganga Jal (holy water from the Ganges) to Chief Minister Baghel, daring him to deny the veracity of these revelations.
ISROs Aditya-L1 to be launched on September 2





BENGALURU :

AFTER the successful Chandrayaan-3 mission to the Moon, ISRO on Monday announced that Indias first solar mission Aditya-L1 to study the Sun will be launched on September 2 at 11.50 am from Sriharikota. The Bengaluru-headquartered space agency said in a social media post that the spacecraft -- the first space-based Indian observatory to study the Sun -- would be launched using a PSLV-C57 rocket. Aditya-L1 spacecraft is designed to provide remote observations of the solar corona and in-situ observations of the solar wind at L1 (Sun-Earth Lagrange point), which is about 1.5 million kilometres from the Earth. Lagrange Points are positions in space where the gravitational forces of the Sun and the Earth produce enhanced regions of attraction and repulsion. These can be used by spacecraft to reduce fuel consumption needed to remain in position, according to NASA. Lagrange points are named in honour of Italian-French mathematician Josephy-Louis Lagrange.

The Aditya-L1 mission, aimed at studying the Sun from an orbit around the L1, would carry seven payloads to observe the photosphere, chromosphere and the corona -- the outermost layers of the Sun -- in different wavebands. Aditya-L1 is a fully indigenous effort with the participation of national institutions, an ISRO official said. The Bengaluru-based Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA) is the lead institute for the development of Visible Emission Line Coronagraph (VELC) payload while Inter-University Centre for Astronomy and Astrophysics, Pune, has developed the Solar Ultraviolet Imaging Telescope (SUIT) payload for the mission. According to ISRO, VELC aims to collect the data for solving how the temperature of the corona can reach about a million degrees while the Suns surface itself stays just over 6000 degrees Centigrade. Aditya-L1 can provide observations on the corona, and on the solar chromosphere using the UV payload and on the flares using the X-ray payloads. The particle detectors and the magnetometer payload can provide information on charged particles and the magnetic field reaching the halo orbit around L1.

The satellite, developed by U R Rao Satellite Centre here, arrived at ISROs spaceport of Sriharikota in Andhra Pradesh, earlier this month. It is planned to be placed in a halo orbit around the L1 point of the Sun-Earth system. A satellite placed in the halo orbit around the L1 point has the major advantage of continuously viewing the Sun without any planets obstructing the view or causing eclipses, ISRO noted. This will provide a greater advantage of observing the solar activities and its effect on space weather in real time, it said. Using the special vantage point L1, four payloads would directly view the Sun and the remaining three payloads are expected to carry out in-situ studies of particles and fields at the L1 point, thus providing important scientific studies of the propagatory effect of solar dynamics in the interplanetary medium. The SUITs of Aditya L1 payloads are expected to provide the most crucial information to understand the problem of coronal heating, coronal mass ejection (CME), pre-flare and flare activities and their characteristics, dynamics of space weather, propagation of particle and fields etc, ISRO said.

The major science objectives of the Aditya-L1 mission are: study of solar upper atmospheric (chromosphere and corona) dynamics; study of chromospheric and coronal heating, physics of the partially ionised plasma, initiation of the coronal mass ejections, and flares; observe the in-situ particle and plasma environment providing data for the study of particle dynamics from the Sun; and physics of solar corona and its heating mechanism. Besides, the mission aims to study diagnostics of the coronal and coronal loops plasma: temperature, velocity and density; development, dynamics and origin of CMEs; identify the sequence of processes that occur at multiple layers (chromosphere, base and extended corona) which eventually leads to solar eruptive events; magnetic field topology and magnetic field measurements in the solar corona; and drivers for space weather (origin, composition and dynamics of solar wind). The instruments of Aditya-L1 are tuned to observe the solar atmosphere, mainly the chromosphere and corona. In-situ instruments will observe the local environment at the L1 point.
MOSCOW, Aug. 28 (Xinhua) -- Russian President Vladimir Putin and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi held phone talks Monday on the outcomes of the recently held BRICS Summit and bilateral cooperation.

Noting the importance of the agreements reached during the 15th BRICS Summit held recently in Johannesburg, South Africa, the two leaders said the expansion of the bloc will contribute to its growing global influence, the Kremlin said.

They further exchanged views regarding the upcoming Group of 20 Summit to be held in New Delhi.

Putin congratulated Modi on the successful landing of India's Chandrayaan-3 spacecraft on the moon, and reaffirmed readiness to strengthen cooperation in the space sector.

The leaders also discussed bilateral trade ties, and cooperation in the transport, logistics and energy sectors. 
Mukesh Ambani appoints all 3 children to Reliance board, wife Nita resigns to make way for them





MUMBAI :

ASIAS richest man Mukesh Ambani began executing a succession plan for his energy-to-technology conglomerate Reliance Industries, appointing his three children Isha, Akash, and Anant to the board of the company on Monday. His wife Nita was a director on the company board but she has resigned to make way for the children. Till now, the three children were involved only at operating business-level and none were on the board of Indias largest listed company. The board of Reliance met ahead of the companys annual general meeting to approve the appointment of twins Isha and Akash as well as Anant, as the non-executive directors of the company, the firm said in a stock exchange filing.

Jio promises AI to everyone, everwhere and we shall deliver: Mukesh Ambani

NEW DELHI :

JIO Platforms is keen to lead efforts in developing India-specific AI models and AI-powered solutions across domains, delivering the benefit of this new-age technology to Indian citizens, businesses and Government, RIL Chairman Mukesh Ambani said on Monday promising AI to everyone, everwhere. Terming Artificial Intelligence (AI) as the most exciting frontier of growth for Jio, Ambani outlined ambitious plans on this front at the 46th AGM of Reliance Industries. Ambani pledged the company's commitment to create up to 2,000 MW of AI-ready computing capacity, across both cloud and edge locations, while adopting sustainable practices and greener future.

A global AI revolution is reshaping the world and intelligent applications will redefine and revolutionise industries, economies, and even daily life, sooner than expected, the RIL top honcho said. To stay globally competitive, India must harness AI for innovation, growth, and national prosperity, he asserted. Here is my promise to our countrymen. Seven years ago, Jio promised broadband connectivity to everyone, everywhere. We have delivered. Today Jio promises AI to everyone, everywhere. And we shall deliver, he vowed.

Within the RIL group, talent pool and capabilities are being augmented to swiftly assimilate the latest global innovations in AI, especially the recent advances in generative AI. Looking ahead, Jio Platforms wants to lead the effort in developing India-specific AI models and AI-powered solutions across domains, thereby delivering the benefit of AI to Indian citizens, businesses and government alike, he said.India has the scale, the data, and the talent, Ambani noted. But we also need digital infrastructure in India that can handle AIs immense computational demands, he said. As this sector expands, we stand committed to create up to 2,000 MW of AI-ready computing capacity, across both cloud and edge locations. Over the next five years, we plan to shift most of our energy footprint in connectivity and digital services to green energy, which is not just eco-friendly but also lower cost, he said.
UN Assistant Secretary-General for Europe, Central Asia and Americas Miroslav Jenca (R, Front) arrives to meet with Cyprus' President Nikos Christodoulides in Nicosia, Cyprus, on Aug. 28, 2023. (PIO/Handout via Xinhua)

NICOSIA, Aug. 28 (Xinhua) -- A high-ranking UN official met here separately on Monday with Cyprus' President Nikos Christodoulides and Turkish Cypriot leader Ersin Tatar in a bid to restart the stalled Cyprus peace negotiations.

Miroslav Jenca, UN assistant secretary-general for Europe, Central Asia and Americas, was dispatched by UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres to assess the prospects of resuming negotiations for a solution to the Cyprus problem.

After meeting with Christodoulides, Jenca told journalists that "the most important thing that I would mention is that the UN Secretary General is paying utmost attention to the situation on the island."

He said that he discussed with Christodoulides ways of resuming talks, adding that "the Secretary General will use all his good offices in order to help this process to find a solution to the Cyprus issue."

Following meeting with Tatar, Jenca expressed hope that "in the future there will be common ground for the resumption of peace talks for the benefit of all people."

Jenca's visit comes more than a week after assaults against UN peacekeepers in Cyprus by Turkish Cypriot personnel as the peacekeepers were trying to prevent the unauthorized construction of a road.

The incident took place inside the buffer zone near Pyla, or Pile in Turkish, a village near the southeastern coast of Cyprus that is inhabited by both Greek and Turkish Cypriots.

Jenca will tour the flare-up area on Tuesday to be briefed on the current situation by UN personnel there. 

UN Assistant Secretary-General for Europe, Central Asia and Americas Miroslav Jenca (R, Front) meets with Cyprus' President Nikos Christodoulides (L, Front) in Nicosia, Cyprus, on Aug. 28, 2023. (PIO/Handout via Xinhua)

UN Assistant Secretary-General for Europe, Central Asia and Americas Miroslav Jenca (C) meets with Cyprus' President Nikos Christodoulides (R, Front) in Nicosia, Cyprus, on Aug. 28, 2023. (PIO/Handout via Xinhua)
Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. (NYSE:AJG  Get Free Report) VP Christopher E. Mead sold 3,300 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, August 25th. The shares were sold at an average price of $226.14, for a total value of $746,262.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the vice president now directly owns 10,816 shares in the company, valued at approximately $2,445,930.24. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at this hyperlink.

Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. Price Performance

Shares of AJG stock traded up $1.91 during trading hours on Tuesday, reaching $230.79. The companys stock had a trading volume of 530,638 shares, compared to its average volume of 850,870. The firms 50 day simple moving average is $218.51 and its 200-day simple moving average is $205.91. The company has a market capitalization of $49.74 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 44.91, a PEG ratio of 2.13 and a beta of 0.70. Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. has a fifty-two week low of $167.93 and a fifty-two week high of $230.89. The company has a quick ratio of 1.04, a current ratio of 1.04 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.58.

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Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. (NYSE:AJG  Get Free Report) last issued its earnings results on Thursday, July 27th. The financial services provider reported $1.90 earnings per share for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $1.86 by $0.04. Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. had a return on equity of 18.65% and a net margin of 12.11%. The firm had revenue of $2.44 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $2.36 billion. During the same quarter last year, the business posted $1.70 EPS. The companys revenue was up 19.5% compared to the same quarter last year. Sell-side analysts forecast that Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. will post 8.75 earnings per share for the current year.

Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. Announces Dividend

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, September 15th. Investors of record on Friday, September 1st will be issued a dividend of $0.55 per share. This represents a $2.20 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 0.95%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Thursday, August 31st. Arthur J. Gallagher & Co.s dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 42.88%.

AJG has been the topic of several research reports. VNET Group reaffirmed a maintains rating on shares of Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. in a research report on Tuesday, May 23rd. Raymond James upped their target price on Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. from $245.00 to $255.00 and gave the company a strong-buy rating in a research report on Tuesday, August 1st. Wells Fargo & Company upped their target price on Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. from $233.00 to $237.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research report on Friday, July 28th. Evercore ISI upped their target price on Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. from $231.00 to $233.00 in a research report on Friday, June 16th. Finally, StockNews.com initiated coverage on Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. in a research report on Thursday, August 17th. They set a hold rating on the stock. Four research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, five have given a buy rating and one has given a strong buy rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the stock has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $229.08.

View Our Latest Analysis on AJG

Institutional Investors Weigh In On Arthur J. Gallagher & Co.

Hedge funds have recently modified their holdings of the company. Principal Financial Group Inc. boosted its holdings in shares of Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. by 2.3% during the 1st quarter. Principal Financial Group Inc. now owns 280,001 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $53,567,000 after acquiring an additional 6,290 shares in the last quarter. Texas Permanent School Fund lifted its holdings in Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. by 0.7% during the 4th quarter. Texas Permanent School Fund now owns 29,956 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $5,648,000 after buying an additional 195 shares during the period. Compagnie Lombard Odier SCmA acquired a new position in Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. during the 1st quarter worth about $29,000. Trust Co. of Vermont lifted its holdings in 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 buying an additional 498 shares during the period. Finally, Toronto Dominion Bank lifted its holdings in 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 buying an additional 17,651 shares during the period. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 81.15% of the companys stock.

Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. Company Profile

(Get 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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Shares of Auto Trader Group plc (LON:AUTO  Get Free Report) have received an average rating of Hold from the eight ratings firms that are presently covering the company, Marketbeat reports. Two equities research analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, two have assigned a hold rating and four have assigned a buy rating to the company. The average 1-year price target among brokerages that have covered the stock in the last year is GBX 614.14 ($7.74).

Several research analysts have recently weighed in on the company. JPMorgan Chase & Co. downgraded Auto Trader Group to an underweight rating and cut their price target for the stock from GBX 630 ($7.94) to GBX 555 ($7.00) in a research note on Tuesday, July 25th. Shore Capital reaffirmed a buy rating on shares of Auto Trader Group in a research note on Tuesday, June 6th.

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Auto Trader Group Trading Down 0.9 %

Auto Trader Group Increases Dividend

LON AUTO opened at GBX 587 ($7.40) on Thursday. Auto Trader Group has a 12 month low of GBX 479.80 ($6.05) and a 12 month high of GBX 669 ($8.43). The firm has a market capitalization of 5.38 billion, a P/E ratio of 2,348.00, a PEG ratio of 3.99 and a beta of 0.62. The business has a fifty day simple moving average of GBX 617.79 and a 200 day simple moving average of GBX 615.05. The company has a current ratio of 1.62, a quick ratio of 1.50 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 13.03.

The business also recently disclosed a dividend, which will be paid on Friday, September 22nd. Stockholders of record on Thursday, August 24th will be paid a GBX 5.60 ($0.07) dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Thursday, August 24th. This represents a dividend yield of 0.89%. This is an increase from Auto Trader Groups previous dividend of $2.80. Auto Trader Groups dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 3,200.00%.

Auto Trader Group Company Profile

(Get Free Report

Auto Trader Group plc operates in the digital automotive marketplace in the United Kingdom and Ireland. The company provides vehicle advertisement on its websites for private sellers, as well as insurance and loan financing products to consumers; and display advertising on its websites for manufacturers and their advertising agencies.

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StockNews.com lowered shares of Brinks (NYSE:BCO  Free Report) from a strong-buy rating to a buy rating in a research report report published on Friday morning.

Separately, The Goldman Sachs Group upped their price objective on Brinks from $81.00 to $92.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a report on Thursday, August 10th.

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Read Our Latest Stock Report on Brinks

Brinks Trading Up 0.5 %

Shares of BCO stock opened at $75.13 on Friday. The businesss fifty day moving average price is $70.26 and its 200 day moving average price is $67.30. Brinks has a 1-year low of $48.38 and a 1-year high of $75.85. The firm has a market capitalization of $3.49 billion, a PE ratio of 31.21 and a beta of 1.33. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 4.89, a current ratio of 1.55 and a quick ratio of 1.55.

Brinks (NYSE:BCO  Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, August 9th. The business services provider reported $1.18 earnings per share for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $1.33 by ($0.15). Brinks had a return on equity of 50.85% and a net margin of 2.40%. The business had revenue of $1.22 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $1.21 billion. During the same period in the prior year, the company earned $1.29 EPS. The companys revenue was up 7.2% on a year-over-year basis. As a group, sell-side analysts forecast that Brinks will post 6.8 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Brinks Announces Dividend

The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, September 1st. Shareholders of record on Monday, July 31st will be given a dividend of $0.22 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, July 28th. This represents a $0.88 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 1.17%. Brinkss payout ratio is 36.67%.

Insiders Place Their Bets

In other news, Director Arthelbert Louis Parker sold 1,650 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Thursday, August 24th. The stock was sold at an average price of $74.00, for a total value of $122,100.00. Following the sale, the director now directly owns 3,036 shares in the company, valued at $224,664. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through this hyperlink. In other news, EVP Dominik Bossart sold 15,000 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Tuesday, June 6th. The stock was sold at an average price of $70.00, for a total value of $1,050,000.00. Following the sale, the executive vice president now directly owns 35,291 shares in the company, valued at $2,470,370. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through this hyperlink. Also, Director Arthelbert Louis Parker sold 1,650 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Thursday, August 24th. The shares were sold at an average price of $74.00, for a total value of $122,100.00. Following the completion of the sale, the director now owns 3,036 shares in the company, valued at $224,664. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. 2.65% of the stock is owned by company insiders.

Institutional Trading of Brinks

Several institutional investors and hedge funds have recently made changes to their positions in BCO. Dark Forest Capital Management LP purchased a new position in Brinks during the first quarter worth about $36,000. Quarry LP lifted its position in Brinks by 97.8% during the first quarter. Quarry LP now owns 639 shares of the business services providers stock worth $43,000 after buying an additional 316 shares during the period. US Bancorp DE lifted its position in Brinks by 69.1% during the second quarter. US Bancorp DE now owns 646 shares of the business services providers stock worth $44,000 after buying an additional 264 shares during the period. Focused Wealth Management Inc purchased a new position in Brinks during the second quarter worth about $61,000. Finally, Pinebridge Investments L.P. purchased a new position in Brinks during the second quarter worth about $67,000. 94.96% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

About Brinks

(Get Free Report)

The Brink's Company provides secure transportation, cash management, and other security-related services in North America, Latin America, Europe, and internationally. The company offers armored vehicle transportation of valuables; automated teller machine (ATM) management services, such as cash replenishment, cash forecasting, cash optimization, ATM remote monitoring, service call dispatching, transaction processing, installation, and first and second line maintenance services; and cash-in-transit services.

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Tradition Wealth Management LLC increased its stake in Bristol-Myers Squibb (NYSE:BMY  Free Report) by 43.1% in the 1st quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The firm owned 8,280 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock after purchasing an additional 2,493 shares during the quarter. Tradition Wealth Management LLCs holdings in Bristol-Myers Squibb were worth $574,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

A number of other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently bought and sold shares of the business. True Wealth Design LLC acquired a new stake in Bristol-Myers Squibb during the 4th quarter worth about $26,000. GoalVest Advisory LLC acquired a new position in shares of Bristol-Myers Squibb in the 1st quarter valued at about $29,000. Coppell Advisory Solutions Corp. acquired a new position in shares of Bristol-Myers Squibb in the 4th quarter valued at about $31,000. Live Oak Investment Partners acquired a new position in shares of Bristol-Myers Squibb in the 4th quarter valued at about $33,000. Finally, Strengthening Families & Communities LLC increased its holdings in shares of Bristol-Myers Squibb by 90.0% in the 1st quarter. Strengthening Families & Communities LLC now owns 475 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock valued at $656,000 after purchasing an additional 225 shares during the period. 74.98% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

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Insiders Place Their Bets

In other news, EVP Robert M. Plenge sold 732 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Thursday, August 3rd. The stock was sold at an average price of $61.14, for a total value of $44,754.48. Following the completion of the sale, the executive vice president now directly owns 6,584 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $402,545.76. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is accessible through this hyperlink. In related news, EVP Ann Powell sold 17,986 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Thursday, August 24th. The stock was sold at an average price of $61.25, for a total value of $1,101,642.50. Following the completion of the transaction, the executive vice president now directly owns 27,868 shares in the company, valued at approximately $1,706,915. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through the SEC website. Also, EVP Robert M. Plenge sold 732 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Thursday, August 3rd. The stock was sold at an average price of $61.14, for a total value of $44,754.48. Following the transaction, the executive vice president now directly owns 6,584 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $402,545.76. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Company insiders own 0.08% of the companys stock.

Bristol-Myers Squibb Trading Up 0.8 %

Bristol-Myers Squibb stock traded up $0.49 during mid-day trading on Tuesday, hitting $62.13. The stock had a trading volume of 4,671,388 shares, compared to its average volume of 8,629,990. The stock has a market capitalization of $129.80 billion, a PE ratio of 16.74, a P/E/G ratio of 1.64 and a beta of 0.42. Bristol-Myers Squibb has a 12 month low of $59.71 and a 12 month high of $81.43. The company has a current ratio of 1.39, a quick ratio of 1.28 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.08. The stock has a 50-day simple moving average of $62.66 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $66.12.

Bristol-Myers Squibb (NYSE:BMY  Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, July 27th. The biopharmaceutical company reported $1.75 earnings per share for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $1.99 by ($0.24). The firm had revenue of $11.23 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $11.81 billion. Bristol-Myers Squibb had a return on equity of 50.51% and a net margin of 17.62%. The businesss revenue for the quarter was down 5.6% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the prior year, the firm posted $1.93 earnings per share. As a group, sell-side analysts forecast that Bristol-Myers Squibb will post 7.48 EPS for the current year.

Bristol-Myers Squibb Dividend Announcement

The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Tuesday, August 1st. Shareholders of record on Friday, July 7th were issued a dividend of $0.57 per share. The ex-dividend date was Thursday, July 6th. This represents a $2.28 annualized dividend and a yield of 3.67%. Bristol-Myers Squibbs dividend payout ratio is currently 60.64%.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

Several equities research analysts recently commented on the company. SVB Leerink reissued a market perform rating on shares of Bristol-Myers Squibb in a research note on Monday, July 10th. Credit Suisse Group lowered their price target on Bristol-Myers Squibb from $72.00 to $66.00 in a research note on Wednesday, July 12th. StockNews.com raised Bristol-Myers Squibb from a buy rating to a strong-buy rating in a research note on Thursday, August 24th. SVB Securities initiated coverage on Bristol-Myers Squibb in a research report on Monday, July 10th. They set a market perform rating and a $66.00 target price for the company. Finally, BMO Capital Markets decreased their target price on Bristol-Myers Squibb from $87.00 to $79.00 and set an outperform rating for the company in a research report on Friday, July 28th. Two analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, eight have given a hold rating, six have assigned a buy rating and one has issued a strong buy rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat.com, Bristol-Myers Squibb presently has an average rating of Hold and an average target price of $71.14.

Check Out Our Latest Stock Analysis on Bristol-Myers Squibb

About Bristol-Myers Squibb

(Free Report)

Bristol-Myers Squibb Company discovers, develops, licenses, manufactures, markets, distributes, and sells biopharmaceutical products worldwide. It offers products for hematology, oncology, cardiovascular, immunology, fibrotic, and neuroscience diseases. The company's products include Eliquis, an oral inhibitor for reduction in risk of stroke/systemic embolism in NVAF, and for the treatment of DVT/PE; Opdivo for anti-cancer indications; Pomalyst/Imnovid indicated for patients with multiple myeloma; Orencia for adult patients with active RA and psoriatic arthritis; and Sprycel for the treatment of Philadelphia chromosome-positive chronic myeloid leukemia.

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Edwards Lifesciences Co. (NYSE:EW  Get Free Report) VP Daveen Chopra sold 1,500 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, August 29th. The shares were sold at an average price of $76.69, for a total transaction of $115,035.00. Following the transaction, the vice president now directly owns 23,950 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $1,836,725.50. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which can be accessed through this hyperlink.

Edwards Lifesciences Trading Up 2.4 %

Shares of NYSE:EW traded up $1.80 during trading on Tuesday, reaching $77.83. 3,109,187 shares of the company were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 3,162,056. The firm has a market capitalization of $47.31 billion, a PE ratio of 33.64, a P/E/G ratio of 4.11 and a beta of 1.02. The businesss fifty day simple moving average is $85.76 and its 200-day simple moving average is $84.18. Edwards Lifesciences Co. has a 12-month low of $67.13 and a 12-month high of $98.35. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.09, a current ratio of 3.15 and a quick ratio of 2.30.

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Edwards Lifesciences (NYSE:EW  Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, July 26th. The medical research company reported $0.66 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $0.65 by $0.01. Edwards Lifesciences had a net margin of 24.56% and a return on equity of 25.43%. The firm had revenue of $1.53 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $1.51 billion. During the same period last year, the firm earned $0.63 earnings per share. The companys quarterly revenue was up 11.4% on a year-over-year basis. On average, research analysts anticipate that Edwards Lifesciences Co. will post 2.55 EPS for the current year.

Institutional Investors Weigh In On Edwards Lifesciences

Analysts Set New Price Targets

Several institutional investors and hedge funds have recently made changes to their positions in the stock. Brown Shipley& Co Ltd lifted its stake in shares of Edwards Lifesciences by 8.8% during the second quarter. Brown Shipley& Co Ltd now owns 27,345 shares of the medical research companys stock worth $2,579,000 after buying an additional 2,220 shares during the period. Stonebridge Capital Advisors LLC raised its holdings in shares of Edwards Lifesciences by 0.8% during the second quarter. Stonebridge Capital Advisors LLC now owns 22,341 shares of the medical research companys stock worth $2,107,000 after purchasing an additional 175 shares during the last quarter. Virginia Retirement Systems ET AL purchased a new position in shares of Edwards Lifesciences during the second quarter worth $39,818,000. Osaic Holdings Inc. raised its holdings in shares of Edwards Lifesciences by 0.5% during the second quarter. Osaic Holdings Inc. now owns 261,009 shares of the medical research companys stock worth $24,603,000 after purchasing an additional 1,401 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Orion Portfolio Solutions LLC raised its holdings in shares of Edwards Lifesciences by 1,088.1% during the second quarter. Orion Portfolio Solutions LLC now owns 42,298 shares of the medical research companys stock worth $3,990,000 after purchasing an additional 38,738 shares during the last quarter. 79.25% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

Several research analysts have commented on EW shares. Citigroup increased their price objective on shares of Edwards Lifesciences from $101.00 to $110.00 in a report on Monday, July 10th. StockNews.com initiated coverage on shares of Edwards Lifesciences in a report on Thursday, August 17th. They issued a buy rating for the company. Mizuho increased their price target on shares of Edwards Lifesciences from $95.00 to $102.00 in a report on Monday, July 17th. TheStreet downgraded shares of Edwards Lifesciences from a b- rating to a c+ rating in a report on Wednesday, August 9th. Finally, Truist Financial increased their price target on shares of Edwards Lifesciences from $101.00 to $105.00 in a report on Wednesday, July 19th. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, nine have issued a hold rating and nine have given a buy rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat, the stock has a consensus rating of Hold and an average price target of $92.68.

Check Out Our Latest Stock Report on EW

Edwards Lifesciences Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Edwards Lifesciences Corporation provides products and technologies for structural heart disease, and critical care and surgical monitoring in the United States, Europe, Japan, and internationally. It offers transcatheter heart valve replacement products for the minimally invasive replacement of heart valves; and transcatheter heart valve repair and replacement products to treat mitral and tricuspid valve diseases.

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Crestwood Equity Partners (NYSE: CEQP) recently received a number of ratings updates from brokerages and research firms:

8/26/2023  Crestwood Equity Partners is now covered by analysts at StockNews.com. They set a hold rating on the stock.

8/25/2023  Crestwood Equity Partners was downgraded by analysts at Raymond James from an outperform rating to a market perform rating. They now have a $30.00 price target on the stock.

8/18/2023  Crestwood Equity Partners was downgraded by analysts at Truist Financial Co. from a buy rating to a hold rating. They now have a $28.00 price target on the stock, down previously from $31.00.

8/17/2023  Crestwood Equity Partners was downgraded by analysts at Scotiabank from a sector outperform rating to a sector perform rating. They now have a $27.00 price target on the stock, down previously from $29.00.

8/17/2023  Crestwood Equity Partners is now covered by analysts at StockNews.com. They set a hold rating on the stock.

8/17/2023  Crestwood Equity Partners was downgraded by analysts at Wells Fargo & Company from an overweight rating to an equal weight rating. They now have a $29.00 price target on the stock, down previously from $31.00.

8/2/2023  Crestwood Equity Partners was downgraded by analysts at Royal Bank of Canada from an outperform rating to a sector perform rating. They now have a $26.00 price target on the stock, down previously from $29.00.

8/2/2023  Crestwood Equity Partners had its price target lowered by analysts at Wells Fargo & Company from $32.00 to $31.00. They now have an overweight rating on the stock.

8/2/2023  Crestwood Equity Partners had its price target lowered by analysts at Raymond James from $32.00 to $30.00. They now have an outperform rating on the stock.

8/2/2023  Crestwood Equity Partners was downgraded by analysts at Citigroup Inc. from a buy rating to a neutral rating. They now have a $28.00 price target on the stock, down previously from $30.00.

8/1/2023  Crestwood Equity Partners was downgraded by analysts at JPMorgan Chase & Co. from a neutral rating to an underweight rating. They now have a $28.00 price target on the stock, down previously from $30.00.

8/1/2023  Crestwood Equity Partners had its price target raised by analysts at Truist Financial Co. from $30.00 to $31.00. They now have a buy rating on the stock.

Crestwood Equity Partners Trading Up 0.7 %

Shares of CEQP stock traded up $0.20 during trading hours on Tuesday, hitting $28.29. 221,724 shares of the companys stock traded hands, compared to its average volume of 547,412. The stocks 50 day simple moving average is $27.35 and its 200 day simple moving average is $25.91. The stock has a market cap of $2.98 billion, a PE ratio of 30.42 and a beta of 2.44. Crestwood Equity Partners LP has a 12 month low of $22.11 and a 12 month high of $31.46. The company has a quick ratio of 1.10, a current ratio of 1.37 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.87.

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Crestwood Equity Partners (NYSE:CEQP  Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, August 1st. The pipeline company reported $1.16 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $0.26 by $0.90. The firm had revenue of $1.02 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $1.19 billion. Crestwood Equity Partners had a net margin of 3.11% and a return on equity of 14.05%. During the same quarter last year, the firm earned $0.14 earnings per share. On average, sell-side analysts anticipate that Crestwood Equity Partners LP will post 2.1 EPS for the current year.

Crestwood Equity Partners Dividend Announcement

Institutional Investors Weigh In On Crestwood Equity Partners

The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Monday, August 14th. Stockholders of record on Monday, August 7th were given a dividend of $0.655 per share. This represents a $2.62 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 9.26%. The ex-dividend date was Friday, August 4th. Crestwood Equity Partnerss dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 281.72%.

Large investors have recently modified their holdings of the company. Raymond James & Associates grew its holdings in Crestwood Equity Partners by 91.5% in the first quarter. Raymond James & Associates now owns 60,954 shares of the pipeline companys stock worth $1,824,000 after purchasing an additional 29,126 shares during the period. US Bancorp DE grew its holdings in Crestwood Equity Partners by 3.4% in the first quarter. US Bancorp DE now owns 26,596 shares of the pipeline companys stock worth $796,000 after purchasing an additional 870 shares during the period. Cambridge Investment Research Advisors Inc. grew its holdings in Crestwood Equity Partners by 13.8% in the first quarter. Cambridge Investment Research Advisors Inc. now owns 8,246 shares of the pipeline companys stock worth $247,000 after purchasing an additional 997 shares during the period. HighTower Advisors LLC grew its holdings in Crestwood Equity Partners by 18.0% in the first quarter. HighTower Advisors LLC now owns 27,502 shares of the pipeline companys stock worth $823,000 after purchasing an additional 4,188 shares during the period. Finally, Private Advisor Group LLC acquired a new stake in Crestwood Equity Partners in the first quarter worth $631,000. 55.64% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

Crestwood Equity Partners LP develops, acquires, owns, controls, and operates assets and operations in the energy midstream sector in the United States. The company operates through three segments: Gathering and Processing North; Gathering and Processing South; and Storage and Logistics. The Gathering and Processing North segment offers natural gas, crude oil, and produced water gathering, compression, treating, processing, and disposal services to producers in the Williston Basin and Powder River Basin.

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Shares of Liquor Stores N.A. Ltd. (TSE:LIQ  Get Free Report) shot up 1.9% during mid-day trading on Monday . The stock traded as high as C$9.28 and last traded at C$9.25. 106,114 shares changed hands during mid-day trading, a decline of 10% from the average session volume of 117,621 shares. The stock had previously closed at C$9.08.

Liquor Stores N.A. Price Performance

The firms fifty day moving average price is C$9.25.

Liquor Stores N.A. Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Liquor Stores N.A. Ltd. engages in the retail of wines, beers, and spirits in Canada and the United States. As of March 14, 2018, the company operated 230 retail liquor stores consisting of 174 stores under Liquor Depot, Liquor Barn, and Wine and Beyond brand names in Alberta; 33 stores under Liquor Depot and Liquor Barn brand names in British Columbia; and 22 stores under Brown Jug brand name in Alaska.

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Ping An Insurance (Group) Company of China, Ltd. (OTCMKTS:PIAIF  Get Free Report)s share price traded up 0.5% during trading on Monday . The company traded as high as $5.85 and last traded at $5.64. 31,325 shares changed hands during trading, an increase of 54% from the average session volume of 20,336 shares. The stock had previously closed at $5.61.

Ping An Insurance (Group) Company of China Stock Performance

The business has a 50 day moving average of $6.44 and a 200 day moving average of $6.71.

Ping An Insurance (Group) Company of China Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

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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NSK (OTCMKTS:NPSKY  Get Free Report) and Atlas Copco (OTCMKTS:ATLKY  Get Free Report) are both industrial products companies, but which is the better stock? We will compare the two companies based on the strength of their risk, institutional ownership, analyst recommendations, earnings, dividends, valuation and profitability.

Valuation & Earnings

This table compares NSK and Atlas Copcos top-line revenue, earnings per share (EPS) and valuation.

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Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio NSK $6.94 billion 0.40 $136.25 million $0.45 24.26 Atlas Copco $14.02 billion 4.68 $2.33 billion $0.52 25.89

Atlas Copco has higher revenue and earnings than NSK. NSK is trading at a lower price-to-earnings ratio than Atlas Copco, indicating that it is currently the more affordable of the two stocks.

Volatility and Risk

Institutional and Insider Ownership

NSK has a beta of 0.81, indicating that its stock price is 19% less volatile than the S&P 500. Comparatively, Atlas Copco has a beta of 1.25, indicating that its stock price is 25% more volatile than the S&P 500.

0.0% of Atlas Copco shares are owned by institutional investors. 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.

Profitability

This table compares NSK and Atlas Copcos net margins, return on equity and return on assets.

Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets NSK 1.79% 3.01% 1.55% Atlas Copco 16.15% 31.62% 14.80%

Analyst Ratings

This is a breakdown of recent ratings and recommmendations for NSK and Atlas Copco, as reported by MarketBeat.

Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score NSK 0 0 2 0 3.00 Atlas Copco 1 5 4 0 2.30

Atlas Copco has a consensus price target of $110.00, suggesting a potential upside of 717.24%. Given Atlas Copcos higher probable upside, analysts clearly believe Atlas Copco is more favorable than NSK.

Dividends

NSK pays an annual dividend of $0.27 per share and has a dividend yield of 2.5%. Atlas Copco pays an annual dividend of $0.17 per share and has a dividend yield of 1.3%. NSK pays out 60.0% of its earnings in the form of a dividend. Atlas Copco pays out 32.7% 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.

Summary

Atlas Copco beats NSK on 13 of the 15 factors compared between the two stocks.

About NSK

(Get Free Report)

NSK Ltd., together with its subsidiaries, manufactures and sells industrial machinery bearings, automotive products, and precision machinery and parts worldwide. Its products include ball bearings; roller bearings; bearing units; super precision bearings; bearings for steel industry, mining and construction, papermaking machines, and pumps and compressors; and bearings for special environments, including sanitary, corrosive, vacuum, cleanroom, high-temperature, non-magnetic requirement, and dust-contaminated environments. The company also provides automotive products, which comprise chassis products, such as electric power steerings, steering column and intermediate shafts, brake systems, and hub unit bearings; power train products comprising engine parts and electrical accessories, automatic and manual transmission, products for motorcycles and all-terrain vehicles, half toroidal CVT POWERTOROS units, and differential gear and propeller shafts. In addition, it offers precision machine components, including ball screws, linear guides, monocarriers, XY tables, and spindles; and accessories, including ball screw support bearings, air bearings, and clean grease, as well as support units for heavy and light loads, machine tools, and small equipment. Further, the company provides megatorque motors and maintenance services. It serves agriculture, automotive, cement, food processing machinery, industrial motor, gearbox, injection molding machine, machine tool, medical device, mining and construction, motorcycle, office equipment, palm oil, papermaking machinery, pump and compressor, railway, semiconductor, steel, sugar, and wind turbine industries. NSK Ltd. was incorporated in 1916 and is headquartered in Tokyo, Japan.

About Atlas Copco

(Get Free Report)

Atlas Copco AB, together with its subsidiaries, provides productivity solutions North America, South America, Europe, Africa, the Middle East, Asia, and Oceania. It operates through Compressor Technique, Vacuum Technique, Industrial Technique, and Power Technique segments. The company offers piston compressors, oil-free tooth and scroll compressors, rotary screw compressors, oil-free blowers, oil-free centrifugal compressors, gas and process compressors, air and gas treatment equipment, and medical air solutions primarily for use in the manufacturing and process industries. It also provides oil-sealed rotary vane, dry, and liquid ring vacuum pumps; and turbomolecular and cryogenic pumps, as well as abatement and integrated systems for the semiconductor and scientific, chemical process, food packaging, and paper handling industries. In addition, the company offers pneumatic, hydraulic, and electric assembly tools, as well as control systems and associated software for safety-critical tightening; self-pierce riveting tools, dispensing equipment for adhesives and sealants, and flow drill fastening equipment; material removal tools, drills, and other pneumatic products; and machine vision solutions for customers in the automotive and general industries. Further, it provides portable compressors, boosters, generators, lighting towers, pumps, and construction and demolition tools for civil engineering, oil and gas, construction, manufacturing, exploration drilling, and demolition industries, as well as specialty rental services. The company was founded in 1873 and is headquartered in Nacka, Sweden.

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DUBAI, Aug. 28 (Xinhua) -- PureHealth, an integrated healthcare network headquartered in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), has signed an agreement to acquire Circle Health Group, the largest independent operator of hospitals in Britain, in a deal worth 4.41 billion dirhams (1.2 billion U.S. dollars), UAE's official news agency WAM reported on Monday.

The acquisition, which is part of PureHealth's global expansion program, marks the company's first entry into Britain, it said.

Under the deal, PureHealth will gain 100 percent of Circle Health Group's assets, including specialties such as orthopedics, oncology, cardiothoracic surgery, ophthalmology, neurosurgery and general surgery, and the new hospitals that Circle Health Group is building, according to the report.

"This acquisition marks an important milestone in our journey towards creating a global healthcare network which revolutionizes patient care," Farhan Malik, managing director and group CEO of PureHealth, was quoted as saying. 
Loma Negra Compania Industrial Argentina Sociedad Anonima (NYSE:LOMA  Get Free Report) was the target of a large growth in short interest in the month of August. As of August 15th, there was short interest totalling 343,200 shares, a growth of 23.6% from the July 31st total of 277,600 shares. Based on an average daily volume of 327,500 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is currently 1.0 days.

Loma Negra Compania Industrial Argentina Sociedad Anonima Stock Performance

Shares of NYSE:LOMA traded up $0.08 during trading on Monday, hitting $6.58. 186,279 shares of the stock traded hands, compared to its average volume of 262,665. The company has a quick ratio of 0.59, a current ratio of 1.09 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.34. The company has a fifty day moving average price of $6.67 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $6.61. Loma Negra Compania Industrial Argentina Sociedad Anonima has a 52-week low of $5.82 and a 52-week high of $7.95. The company has a market cap of $770.39 million, a price-to-earnings ratio of -164.50, a P/E/G ratio of 0.13 and a beta of 1.27.

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Loma Negra Compania Industrial Argentina Sociedad Anonima Announces Dividend

The company also recently disclosed a Variable dividend, which was paid on Wednesday, July 12th. Shareholders of record on Monday, July 3rd were issued a $0.4648 dividend. The ex-dividend date was Friday, June 30th. Loma Negra Compania Industrial Argentina Sociedad Anonimas payout ratio is -1,375.00%.

Institutional Investors Weigh In On Loma Negra Compania Industrial Argentina Sociedad Anonima

Loma Negra Compania Industrial Argentina Sociedad Anonima Company Profile

Hedge funds have recently modified their holdings of the company. Simplex Trading LLC purchased a new stake in shares of Loma Negra Compania Industrial Argentina Sociedad Anonima during the 2nd quarter worth about $34,000. UBS Group AG boosted its stake in shares of Loma Negra Compania Industrial Argentina Sociedad Anonima by 103.2% during the 3rd quarter. UBS Group AG now owns 5,632 shares of the companys stock worth $35,000 after acquiring an additional 2,860 shares in the last quarter. BNP Paribas Arbitrage SNC purchased a new stake in shares of Loma Negra Compania Industrial Argentina Sociedad Anonima during the 2nd quarter worth about $72,000. Renaissance Technologies LLC purchased a new stake in shares of Loma Negra Compania Industrial Argentina Sociedad Anonima during the 3rd quarter worth about $69,000. Finally, Two Sigma Investments LP purchased a new stake in shares of Loma Negra Compania Industrial Argentina Sociedad Anonima during the 3rd quarter worth about $73,000. 19.07% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

(Get Free Report)

Loma Negra Compania Industrial Argentina Sociedad Anonima, together with its subsidiaries, manufactures and sells cement and its derivatives in Argentina. The company operates through Cement, Masonry Cement and Lime; Concrete; Railroad; Aggregates; and Others segments. It offers masonry cement, aggregates, ready-mix concrete, concrete, and lime to wholesale distributors, concrete producers, industrial customers, and others for use in the construction.

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StockNews.com downgraded shares of Spirit AeroSystems (NYSE:SPR  Free Report) from a hold rating to a sell rating in a report issued on Friday.

A number of other brokerages have also weighed in on SPR. Bank of America reduced their price objective on shares of Spirit AeroSystems from $22.00 to $18.00 and set an underperform rating on the stock in a report on Friday. The Goldman Sachs Group downgraded Spirit AeroSystems from a buy rating to a neutral rating and dropped their price objective for the company from $45.00 to $30.00 in a report on Wednesday, August 2nd. Truist Financial cut shares of Spirit AeroSystems from a buy rating to a hold rating and lowered their target price for the company from $42.00 to $25.00 in a report on Thursday, August 3rd. Sanford C. Bernstein lowered their target price on shares of Spirit AeroSystems from $38.00 to $29.00 in a report on Thursday, May 4th. Finally, TD Cowen cut shares of Spirit AeroSystems from an outperform rating to a market perform rating and lowered their target price for the company from $38.00 to $28.00 in a report on Thursday, May 4th. Four equities research analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, seven have assigned a hold rating and four have issued a buy rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat, the stock presently has a consensus rating of Hold and an average target price of $29.38.

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View Our Latest Stock Analysis on SPR

Spirit AeroSystems Price Performance

SPR stock opened at $21.92 on Friday. The firm has a market capitalization of $2.31 billion, a P/E ratio of -2.68 and a beta of 1.64. The businesss 50-day moving average is $26.66 and its two-hundred day moving average is $29.23. Spirit AeroSystems has a 1 year low of $18.80 and a 1 year high of $38.55.

Spirit AeroSystems (NYSE:SPR  Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, August 2nd. The aerospace company reported ($1.46) earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of ($0.79) by ($0.67). Spirit AeroSystems had a negative net margin of 15.91% and a negative return on equity of 365.67%. The company had revenue of $1.37 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $1.31 billion. During the same period in the prior year, the business earned ($1.21) EPS. Spirit AeroSystemss revenue for the quarter was up 8.5% on a year-over-year basis. On average, analysts expect that Spirit AeroSystems will post -3.91 EPS for the current year.

Institutional Investors Weigh In On Spirit AeroSystems

Several hedge funds have recently modified their holdings of the stock. LPL Financial LLC raised its holdings in Spirit AeroSystems by 0.4% during the second quarter. LPL Financial LLC now owns 102,283 shares of the aerospace companys stock worth $2,997,000 after purchasing an additional 357 shares in the last quarter. Ancora Advisors LLC raised its holdings in Spirit AeroSystems by 6.1% during the first quarter. Ancora Advisors LLC now owns 7,000 shares of the aerospace companys stock worth $341,000 after purchasing an additional 400 shares in the last quarter. Public Employees Retirement System of Ohio grew its holdings in Spirit AeroSystems by 0.8% during the third quarter. Public Employees Retirement System of Ohio now owns 52,370 shares of the aerospace companys stock worth $1,148,000 after acquiring an additional 413 shares during the period. Legal & General Group Plc grew its holdings in Spirit AeroSystems by 0.3% during the second quarter. Legal & General Group Plc now owns 141,263 shares of the aerospace companys stock worth $4,139,000 after acquiring an additional 460 shares during the period. Finally, Mystic Asset Management Inc. grew its holdings in Spirit AeroSystems by 1.4% during the second quarter. Mystic Asset Management Inc. now owns 38,116 shares of the aerospace companys stock worth $1,113,000 after acquiring an additional 533 shares during the period. 88.05% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

Spirit AeroSystems Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Spirit AeroSystems Holdings, Inc engages in the design, engineering, manufacture, and marketing of commercial aerostructures worldwide. It operates through three segments: Commercial, Defense & Space, and Aftermarket. The Commercial segment offers forward, mid, and rear fuselage sections and systems, nacelles, struts/pylons, horizontal and vertical stabilizers, flaps and slats flight control surfaces, wing structures, and fully functional and tested wing systems.

Further Reading

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Tembo Gold Corp. (CVE:TEM  Get Free Report)s share price rose 10.5% during trading on Monday . The company traded as high as C$0.22 and last traded at C$0.21. Approximately 33,605 shares changed hands during trading, a decline of 46% from the average daily volume of 62,391 shares. The stock had previously closed at C$0.19.

Tembo Gold Price Performance

The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 7.06, a quick ratio of 5.80 and a current ratio of 1.66. The company has a market cap of C$21.37 million, a price-to-earnings ratio of -7.00 and a beta of 0.42. The business has a fifty day moving average price of C$0.19 and a 200 day moving average price of C$0.18.

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Insiders Place Their Bets

In other news, insider Phoenix Gold Fund Limited bought 175,000 shares of the stock in a transaction on Friday, August 4th. The stock was acquired at an average price of C$0.20 per share, with a total value of C$34,720.00. Insiders own 25.78% of the companys stock.

Tembo Gold Company Profile

Tembo Gold Corp., a junior mineral exploration company, engages in the acquisition and exploration of mineral properties in Tanzania. The company primarily explores for gold deposits. Its flagship project is the Tembo gold property covering an area of 32 square kilometers located in the Lake Victoria goldfield district in northwest Tanzania.

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National Pension Service boosted its position in shares of The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. (NYSE:GS  Free Report) by 5.3% in the first quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 512,555 shares of the investment management companys stock after purchasing an additional 25,921 shares during the period. National Pension Service owned approximately 0.15% of The Goldman Sachs Group worth $164,602,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Other large investors have also added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Tower View Investment Management & Research LLC acquired a new stake in The Goldman Sachs Group during the 4th quarter valued at $27,000. Elequin Securities LLC bought a new position in The Goldman Sachs Group during the 4th quarter valued at $32,000. Worth Asset Management LLC bought a new position in The Goldman Sachs Group during the 1st quarter valued at $33,000. NewSquare Capital LLC boosted its stake in The Goldman Sachs Group by 3,433.3% during the 1st quarter. NewSquare Capital LLC now owns 106 shares of the investment management companys stock valued at $35,000 after acquiring an additional 103 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Boulder Wealth Advisors LLC bought a new position in The Goldman Sachs Group during the 4th quarter valued at $39,000. 69.06% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

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Insider Buying and Selling at The Goldman Sachs Group

In other The Goldman Sachs Group news, CEO David M. Solomon sold 4,200 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, August 1st. The shares were sold at an average price of $356.28, for a total transaction of $1,496,376.00. Following the transaction, the chief executive officer now owns 124,782 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $44,457,330.96. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which can be accessed through this link. In other news, major shareholder Goldman Sachs Group Inc sold 1,145,486 shares of The Goldman Sachs Group stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, June 30th. The shares were sold at an average price of $11.73, for a total value of $13,436,550.78. Following the transaction, the insider now owns 50,099,392 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $587,665,868.16. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through the SEC website. Also, CEO David M. Solomon sold 4,200 shares of The Goldman Sachs Group stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, August 1st. The stock was sold at an average price of $356.28, for a total transaction of $1,496,376.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief executive officer now directly owns 124,782 shares in the company, valued at approximately $44,457,330.96. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. In the last 90 days, insiders have sold 10,159,686 shares of company stock valued at $123,960,027. Company insiders own 0.54% of the companys stock.

The Goldman Sachs Group Stock Performance

NYSE:GS traded up $5.42 during mid-day trading on Tuesday, hitting $331.39. The stock had a trading volume of 835,879 shares, compared to its average volume of 2,506,405. The stock has a market capitalization of $109.25 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 13.91, a P/E/G ratio of 1.24 and a beta of 1.39. The company has a 50 day simple moving average of $333.24 and a 200-day simple moving average of $334.12. The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. has a 52 week low of $287.75 and a 52 week high of $389.58. The company has a current ratio of 0.81, a quick ratio of 0.81 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.18.

The Goldman Sachs Group (NYSE:GS  Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, July 19th. The investment management company reported $3.08 earnings per share for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $3.25 by ($0.17). The firm had revenue of $10.90 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $10.61 billion. The Goldman Sachs Group had a net margin of 9.74% and a return on equity of 8.27%. The companys revenue for the quarter was down 8.1% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter in the prior year, the business earned $7.73 earnings per share. On average, research analysts expect that The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. will post 25.75 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

The Goldman Sachs Group Increases Dividend

The business also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, September 28th. Shareholders of record on Thursday, August 31st will be paid a dividend of $2.75 per share. This is a boost from The Goldman Sachs Groups previous quarterly dividend of $2.50. The ex-dividend date is Wednesday, August 30th. This represents a $11.00 annualized dividend and a yield of 3.32%. The Goldman Sachs Groups dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 42.66%.

Analyst Ratings Changes

A number of research analysts have commented on the stock. BMO Capital Markets increased their price objective on shares of The Goldman Sachs Group from $407.00 to $411.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research note on Thursday, July 20th. 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 Thursday, July 20th. Atlantic Securities upgraded shares of The Goldman Sachs Group from an underweight rating to a neutral rating and increased their price objective for the company from $330.00 to $351.00 in a research note on Tuesday, August 1st. Odeon Capital Group upgraded shares of The Goldman Sachs Group from a hold rating to a buy rating and set a $355.75 price objective on the stock in a research note on Thursday, July 13th. Finally, UBS Group raised their price target on shares of The Goldman Sachs Group from $385.00 to $400.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research report on Monday, July 24th. Eight analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and eleven have assigned a buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat.com, the company currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $395.63.

Read Our Latest Stock Analysis on The Goldman Sachs Group

About The Goldman Sachs Group

(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.

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Shares of Vornado Realty Trust (NYSE:VNO  Get Free Report) have earned an average recommendation of Reduce from the twelve research firms that are covering the stock, MarketBeat Ratings reports. 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 company. The average twelve-month price objective among brokers that have issued ratings on the stock in the last year is $18.90.

VNO has been the topic of a number of research analyst reports. Evercore ISI raised their price target on Vornado Realty Trust from $21.00 to $25.00 and gave the stock an in-line rating in a research report on Wednesday, August 16th. Bank of America raised their target price on shares of Vornado Realty Trust from $18.00 to $24.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a report on Tuesday, August 8th. Finally, StockNews.com cut shares of Vornado Realty Trust from a hold rating to a sell rating in a report on Monday.

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Read Our Latest Stock Report on VNO

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

Vornado Realty Trust Stock Performance

Several large investors have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the business. Teachers Retirement System of The State of Kentucky grew its holdings in shares of Vornado Realty Trust by 10.3% in the 2nd quarter. Teachers Retirement System of The State of Kentucky now owns 28,257 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $513,000 after acquiring an additional 2,635 shares in the last quarter. Nuveen Asset Management LLC boosted its holdings in shares of Vornado Realty Trust by 1.5% in the 2nd quarter. Nuveen Asset Management LLC now owns 349,429 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $6,339,000 after buying an additional 5,200 shares during the last quarter. GTS Securities LLC acquired a new position in Vornado Realty Trust during the second quarter worth $1,212,000. Heitman Real Estate Securities LLC raised its position in Vornado Realty Trust by 34.4% during the second quarter. Heitman Real Estate Securities LLC now owns 76,167 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $1,382,000 after acquiring an additional 19,476 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Waterfront Capital Partners LLC acquired a new stake in Vornado Realty Trust in the second quarter valued at $26,852,000. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 75.86% of the companys stock.

Shares of NYSE:VNO opened at $23.24 on Tuesday. The company has a 50 day moving average price of $20.11 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $17.41. The company has a quick ratio of 4.15, a current ratio of 4.15 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.72. Vornado Realty Trust has a 52 week low of $12.31 and a 52 week high of $28.50.

Vornado Realty Trust Company Profile

(Get Free Report

Vornado is a fully integrated real estate investment trust (REIT) with a collection of premier assets and a focused strategy of growing its dominant positions in New York City office and retail. While concentrated in New York, Vornado also has premier assets in Chicago and San Francisco, and maintains a 32.4% interest in Alexander's, Inc (Alexander's) (NYSE: ALX), which owns six properties in the greater New York metropolitan area.

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"Arab and Middle Eastern countries have benefited greatly from the Belt and Road Initiative," says a Palestinian expert. The China-proposed initiative marks its 10th anniversary this year.





Produced by Xinhua Global Service




The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has offered clarification on the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) Valuation process.

The Service categorically described a recent media report, which stirred up confusion within the public, as misleading and aiming to distort the truth and misinform the public.

CSC Abdullahi Maiwada, the National Public Relations Officer on behalf of the Comptroller General of Customs, made this clarification in a statement issued on Monday, August 28th 2023.

According to him, While it is true that a circular about examination and release of used vehicles has been highlighted by the author, it is regrettable that the accurate context has been overlooked.

He added, The VIN Valuation Process remains fully operational and effective. The mentioned circular specifically pertains to imported used vehicles equipped with trim numbers. These trim numbers are critical in identifying distinct versions or tiers within a specific car model. They delineate varying configurations, features, and levels of equipment associated with the model. Furthermore, different trim levels offer diverse technological advancements, interior and exterior features, and, occasionally, distinct engine options.

For instance, a car model could feature trim levels such as Base, Sport, Luxury, and Premium. Each of these trim levels might present differing combinations of attributes, such as premium leather seats, advanced infotainment systems, upgraded wheels, and enhanced safety features, among other enhancements. This results in an elevated value for the vehicle compared to the base model.

To ensure fairness and accuracy, the NCS mandates that imported used vehicles with trim numbers undergo valuation at the Valuation Seat after a thorough examination. This process aims to establish the vehicle's appropriate and precise Customs value.

While urging the general public to dismiss the misleading report, CSC Maiwada charged individuals to engage with the various Customs Formations across the nation for any additional clarification or information they may require.
Focusing on creating a National Artificial Intelligence (AI) Strategy for the country, the Federal Government has called for applications from researchers of Nigerian descent from across the globe.

This was disclosed by the Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Dr Bosun Tijani, yesterday via X (Twitter), urged Nigerians to share details of any top researcher they know.

According to the document he shared on X, titled: Co-creating a National Artificial Intelligence Strategy for Nigeria, Tijani noted that the government is building on existing work done by the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) to develop a National Al Strategy, hence, it is expanding its co-creation approach to engage and include top Al researchers of Nigerian descent globally.

He said, We are curating a list of the top researchers of Nigerian descent from all over the world to join us in co-creating a National AI Strategy. The strategy will help shape our approach to building innovative tech solutions to our most pressing national problems.

If there are any researchers you know, Nigerian and non-Nigerian, who have done some work on the Nigerian market, please share in the comments."

Explaining the need for AI strategy for Nigeria, the minister said, recent research showed that Al could contribute up to $15.7 trillion to the global economy by 2030, with $3 trillion from increased productivity and $9.1 trillion from new products and services (PwC, 2018).

He explained, The International Finance Corporation projects that the strategic adoption of Al could add up to $234 billion to Africas GDP by 2030. Nigeria in this loop is considered to have a fast-growing technology start-up ecosystem (having attracted 25 per cent of the $1.3 billion funding to African tech start-ups in 2021) and with proactive leadership, is well-positioned to leverage Al for economic diversification and inclusive growth. As an innovation leader on the African continent, Nigeria needs to develop a national strategy to harness the power of Al for sustainable development.

However, along with the opportunities, Al governance also poses some complex socio-technical challenges. As algorithms are deployed in high-stakes domains like healthcare, finance, and security, concerns are emerging around ethics, bias, transparency, job automation, and privacy. Both policymakers and researchers are of a consensus that a human-centred approach is essential to ensure Al systems are fair and accountable to all, across gender, ethnic and socioeconomic groups.

A National Al Strategy for Nigeria to responsibly steer the Al revolution towards achieving national goals around job creation, social inclusion, and sustainable development becomes imperative. With collaborative leadership, Nigeria seeks to pioneer ethical and inclusive Al innovation that improves welfare and expands opportunities for all its citizens."
Detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, has told the Federal Government that he will not beg for his release as he has been discharged by Justice Binta Nyako of a Federal High Court in Abuja.

This was contained in a letter dated August 25, 2023, and signed by Kanus lead counsel, Mike Ozekhome, SAN. The letter was made available to newsmen on Monday, August 28,

Ozekhome also raised concern over the deplorable condition of Kanus detention facility in the custody of the Department of State Services.

The lawyer requested that the Chief Judge of the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory should appoint a Magistrate to inspect the detention centre.

According to Kanu, begging for his freedom at this point will be an insult to the memory of late Pa Mbazulike Amechi, who despite his age and ill health, repeatedly travelled from the South-East to Abuja, pleading with the Federal Government to honour his dying wish, which was treated with the greatest disdain and was also not honoured.

A statement issued by Kanus counsel, Ifeanyi Ejiofor titled, Update on our routine visit to our indefatigable client  Onyendu Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, at the Headquarters of the State Security Services, Abuja, where he is still being illegally and unconstitutionally detained in solitary confinement.

Ejiofor said, Onyendu Mazi Nnamdi Kanu used the opportunity offered by the visit to extend his heartfelt gratitude to all people of good conscience and groups calling for his release. He however, observed that many people may not have understood the peculiarity of his case, but proceeded to urge us to clarify that he has been effectively and validly discharged by the judgment of the Court of Appeal, delivered October 13 2022, which said judgment also prohibited his further trial and detention. Therefore, there is no charge pending against Onyendu Mazi Nnamdi Kanu before any court as of today.

Furthermore, Onyendu Mazi Nnamdi Kanu unequivocally stated that begging the Federal Government to release him at this point is an insult to the memory of late Pa Mbazulike Amaechi, who despite his age and ill health, repeatedly travelled from the South-East to Abuja, begging the Federal Government of Nigeria, to honour his dying wish, which request was treated with greatest disdain by the Federal Government, and was also not honoured.

Thus, Onyendu Mazi Nnamdi Kanu is of the firm view that he does not need to beg the FGN to release him. The Court of Appeal has already made a pronouncement in that regard and that pronouncement has remained sacrosanct till date.

Therefore, the call every person of goodwill should make in the circumstance of his continued illegal detention, is for the Supreme Court to set down a date for the expeditious hearing of the appeal filed by the Federal Government, as provided for in the Criminal Appeals Practice Directions of the Supreme Court.

We visited our indefatigable Client  Onyendu Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, today, the 28th day of August 2023, to brief him on the various intervening actions taken by the legal team ably led by Prof. Mike Ozekhome, SAN, to address pertinent concerns affecting his welfare and failure of the SSS to avail him of his medical records.

To this end, an application has been made to the Honourable Chief Judge of the Federal Capital Territory by our erudite Lead Counsel  Prof. Mike Ozekhome SAN, to appoint a Magistrate that will visit and inspect the SSS facility/cell where Mazi Nnamdi Kanu has been held in solitary confinement since June 2021 till date, in pursuance to the relevant provisions of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act, 2015.

Following the SSS refusal to avail Onyendu Mazi Nnamdi Kanu with his medical records, as directed by Hon. Justice Binta Nyako, in the judgment delivered on July 20 2023, our erudite lead counsel, Prof. Mike Ozekhome, SAN, was compelled by this brazen disregard to an order of Court by the SSS, to initiate a contempt proceeding against the State Security Service and her Director General, for this gross violation of positive Orders of Court.
This aerial photo taken on Aug. 29, 2023 shows a freight train loaded with auto parts, home appliances and textile products pulling out of the Xiahuayuan railway cargo terminal in Zhangjiakou, north China's Hebei Province. The train will reach Tashkent of Uzbekistan in about 15 days via the land port of Horgos in northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. (Photo by Wu Diansen/Xinhua)

SHIJIAZHUANG, Aug. 29 (Xinhua) -- Zhangjiakou, a city known for hosting the 2022 Winter Olympics in north China's Hebei Province, launched cargo train services to Central Asia on Tuesday.

A freight train loaded with auto parts, home appliances and textile products left the Xiahuayuan railway cargo terminal for Tashkent in Uzbekistan, on Tuesday morning, marking the inauguration of the China-Europe (Central Asia) freight train services in the city.

The train will reach Tashkent in about 15 days via the land port of Horgos in northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, according to the China Railway Beijing Group Co., Ltd.

Located adjacent to Beijing, Shanxi Province and the Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, Zhangjiakou is a cargo transportation hub where multiple railway and expressway lines run through.

The new freight train services are important for cargo trades in the area and the building of a logistics hub for multimodal transportation, the company said. 

This photo taken on Aug. 29, 2023 shows a freight train loaded with auto parts, home appliances and textile products pulling out of the Xiahuayuan railway cargo terminal in Zhangjiakou, north China's Hebei Province. The train will reach Tashkent of Uzbekistan in about 15 days via the land port of Horgos in northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. (Photo by Wu Diansen/Xinhua)
Phuket airport to welcome all taxi app drivers

PHUKET: Phuket International Airport will open its doors to taxis from all ride-hailing applications, allowing them to pick up passengers from this Friday (Sept 1), reports the Phuket Info Center, operated under the Phuket office of the Ministry of Interior.

tourismtransport

By The Phuket News

Tuesday 29 August 2023 10:00 AM

The PLTO notice issued last week stating the legal requirements for app taxis. Image: PLTO

The PLTO notice issued last confirming which taxi apps were legal. Image: PLTO

Kirati Kitmanawat, President of Airports of Thailand (AoT), confirmed the policy shift directly with the Phuket Info Center, the centre explained in a post on its Facebook page.

However, the approval comes with specific regulations and designated zones, Phuket info Center reported.

Exactly what stipulations will be in place were not explained.

Of note, the Phuket Land Transport Office (PLTO) as recently as 12 days ago (Aug 16) shared a public notice confirming that Maxim and inDriver apps were still not yet approved by the Department of Land Transport.

The PLTO also issued a notice stipulating what was required for app taxis to legally operate in Thailand.

The policy shift by AOT will also mark an end to an intensive campaign carried out by the PLTO in arresting app taxi drivers that were deemed illegal at the airport. The campaign, with support from local police, began in February and continued to at least June. Since then the PLTO has fallen silent about its campaign to crack down on illegal taxi drivers.

Regardless, despite the absence of exact details and official passenger acceptance guidelines, the announcement by AoT President Mr Kirati as shared by the Phuket Info Center has ignited comments among both tourists and taxi drivers stationed at the airport.

Monchai Tanode, General Manager of Phuket International Airport under the Phuket branch of Airports of Thailand (AoT Phuket), late last month confirmed in a statement that Phuket airport was to have an all taxi area.

However, the all-taxi area was not expected to become a reality until 2024, Mr Monchai said.

Of note, the statement was not publicly posted by AoT Phuket, Instead, the statement was shared by Phuket MP Somchart Techathavorncharoen, the successful Move Forward Party candidate for Phuket District 1.

Just last week, MP Somchart republished the revised fare structure for electronically-operated taxis, particularly those using apps. This was published in the Government Gazette, aiming to reassure individuals about using the increasingly favoured mode of taxi service.

The Ministry of Transports proclamation introduced updated passenger rates and additional service charges, demonstrating a deliberate step toward maximising the sharing economy and broadening choices for consumers.

On one hand, the move could facilitate tourists journeys from Phuket airport to various tourist destinations on the island.

Conversely, airport taxi drivers are contemplating the appropriate approach to queue management and ensuring the prevention of clashes between regular taxis and app-based hired vehicles.

Consequently, this situation poses a challenge for AOT to tackle, in conjunction with the pressing necessity to address runway deterioration concerns that caused numerous aircraft to delay landing last week.
Zhao Leji, chairman of the National People's Congress (NPC) Standing Committee, presides over the 11th meeting of the Council of Chairpersons of the 14th NPC Standing Committee at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Aug. 29, 2023. (Xinhua/Zhang Ling)

BEIJING, Aug. 29 (Xinhua) -- Senior Chinese lawmakers met on Tuesday during the country's ongoing legislative session.

The meeting of the Council of Chairpersons of the National People's Congress (NPC) Standing Committee was presided over by Zhao Leji, chairman of the NPC Standing Committee.

The meeting heard reports on the deliberations of bills during the session, as well as suggestions for revisions to some of the draft normative documents under review. Based on the deliberations, revisions have been made to the draft normative documents, and draft legal decisions have been prepared.

The meeting decided to submit the updated normative documents to the ongoing session of the NPC Standing Committee for review. 
Punjab Vigilance Bureau (VB) on Tuesday arrested a lecturer, Umesh Kumar Munjal, posted at Government Senior Secondary School Lalru in SAS Nagar district for taking a bribe of Rs 1.16 lakh for getting a teacher transferred near her home.

Disclosing this on Tuesday, an official spokesperson of VB said Ranjan lodged a complaint that his wife Priya Miglani, who is a government teacher, was posted at Government Senior Secondary School, Kussowal in Ferozepur district. This school is around 180 kilometres away from their residence at Nanak Nagri in Abohar (Fazilka).

The accused Umesh Kumar contacted Ranjan to help him in getting his wife transferred near home. He (the complainant) met Kumar at Sri Muktsar Sahib on 26 October 2021 and the lecturer demanded Rs Two lakh for the same.\

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The accused had allegedly taken Rs 1.16 lakh as a bribe from the complainant on different dates and then started demanding the remaining amount of the bribe but the transfer was not done as the complainant did not pay the remaining amount of the bribe to the accused.

The complainant said Punjab Education Department had opened the portal for online transfers on 10 June 2022 and on the application, Priya Miglani was transferred to Government Senior Secondary School, Bhitiwala in tehsil Malout of Sri Muktsar Sahib district and she joined the duty on new posting on 16 June 2022. But the accused was harassing them by demanding the remaining amount of bribe.

The spokesperson said a team of VB unit Fazilka has arrested the Lecturer Umesh Kumar Munjal today after registering an FIR no. 21 dated 29-08-2023 under Section 7 of Prevention of Corruption Act against him at Police Station VB, Ferozepur Range.
In yet another setback for the edtech platform Byjus, Chief Business Officer (CBO) Prathyusha Agarwal, and two other senior executives have resigned amid restructuring of the company.

The other two other business heads who resigned are Himanshu Bajaj and Mukut Deepak.

As BYJUs continues to chart its path to profitability and sustainable growth, we have undertaken a restructuring of businesses and verticals including the consolidation of four verticals into two key verticals  K-10 and Exam Prep, the spokesperson said.

One of the top performing educational portals, Byjus, has been under crisis in the recent past. Byjus has let go of thousands of employees this year as it grapples with multiple legal and financial woes.

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It is to be noted that investor Prosus NV had earlier said that the companys management regularly disregarded advice despite repeated efforts by the Dutch-listed tech firms former director to improve governance.

It is to be noted that recently, Deloitte, which was slated to audit Byjus until 2025, also quit due to long-delayed financial statements by the company.

Earlier in July, Byjus constituted an advisory council with investor Mohandas Pai and former State Bank of India chairman Rajnish Kumar to address corporate governance issues.
In a major development in PM GatiShakti rail corridor projects in Chhattisgarh, rupee term loan documents were executed between the Central Bank of India under sole banking and the promoters, i.e., South Eastern Coalfields Ltd (SECL), Ircon International Ltd (IRCON), CSIDC and CERL on Monday, towards development of second phase of Chhattisgarh East Railway Ltd (CERL).

The total debt exposure in this financial contract will be of Rs 1,349 crore.

This concludes the documentation process of achieving financial closure of the project, which is a major milestone.

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The CERL is a subsidiary company of the SECL (with 64 per cent stake) formed as a joint venture with IRCON (with 26 per cent stake) and the Chhattisgarh State Industrial Development Corporation (CSIDC), representing the state government, with 10 per cent stake).

The CERL project is planned with the specific purpose of constructing rail infrastructure in the state. This project is being implemented based on the Joint Venture (JV) model of PPP projects under Concession Agreement (CA) with the Railways Ministry and is notified as Special Railway Project to provide national infrastructure for a public purpose with high priority accorded by the Centre.

CERL is planned in two phases. The Phase I of CERL is majorly commissioned and is facilitating evacuation of coal from Mand Raigarh coalfields. The CERL Phase-II project with a project length of 62.50 km from Dharamjaygarh to Korba is planned to provide the critical rail link between CERL Phase-I which stretches from Kharsia to Dharamjaygarh with Spur line up to Pelma and three feeder lines (124.80 km) and CEWRL which stretches from Gevra Road to Pendra Road (Main Line of 135 km).

This will provide an alternate rail route for transportation of coal to the northern parts of the country, as it will provide a link from Kharsia to Pendra which will facilitate surplus coal movement of Mand-Raigarh Coalfields and Basundra Coalfields to the northern and western power houses of the country.
The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) arrested an Assistant Director of the Enforcement Directorate (ED) and six others for accepting 5 crore as bribe.

An Assistant Director of the Enforcement Directorate (ED) and six other employees were detained by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Monday for taking bribes totaling  5 crore in order to protect Delhi businessman Aman Dhall in the Delhi liquor scam case.

The accused named in the FIR have been identified as Pawan Khatri, Assistant Director, ED; Vikramaditya, CEO of Claridges Hotels and Resorts; Deepak Sangwan, Employee of Air India; Amandeep Singh Dhall; Birender Pal Singh; Praveen Kumar Vats, Chartered Accountants and Nitesh Kohar, Upper Division Clerk.

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On March 1, the ED had arrested Dhall in relation to potential anomalies in the excise policy.

It was found that a number of specific individuals were engaged in the activity of accepting money under the guise of senior ED officials during the course of the investigation in the Delhi Liquor Scam case.

Under sections of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, it was prima facie revealed that Aman Dhall (accused in the Delhi Liqour scam case and arrested by both ED and CBI) and Birender Pal Singh (father of Aman Dhall) had given 5 crore (initially 3 crore in the month of December 2022-January 2023 and then 2 crore) to one Praveen Vats (Chartered Accountant) for arranging help in ED in respect of the ongoing investigation in liquor case against Aman Dhall, an official statement said.

According to the FIR, Deepak Sangwan, who works as an Assistant General Manager in Air India, had assured Vats that he could arrange help for Dhall in EDs liquor scam case (by protecting him from arrest) in lieu of some amount of money.

Sangwan introduced Dhall to ED official Khatri in December 2022. Chartered Accountant Praveen Kumar Vats took 3 crore from Dhall in six tranches of 50 lakh each in December 2022-January 2023.

The FIR said that thereafter, a further 2 crore was taken in four tranches.
According to recent reports, Ankita Lokhande and her spouse Vicky Jain are rumoured to participate in the upcoming season 17 of the popular reality show Bigg Boss, hosted by Salman Khan. The theme of this season is expected to revolve around couples versus singles. In the new season, Ankita Lokhande and her beau Vicky Jain are likely to join as contestants.

Following the success of Bigg Boss OTT 2, the creators are gearing up for the next instalment of the main show, Bigg Boss. Notable moments from the previous season, such as the endearing romance between Falaq Naaz and Avinash Sachdev, the clash between Elvish Yadav and Abhishek Malhan, and the unexpected kiss involving Akanksha Puri and Jad Hadid, have generated substantial excitement among viewers. With the imminent arrival of Bigg Boss 17, speculation is rife about potential contestants. Among the many names surfacing, it is suggested that Ankita Lokhande and Vicky Jain might be among the participants.

Given that Bigg Boss, 17s theme centres on the dynamic between couples and singles, Ankita Lokhande and Vicky Jain are reportedly being considered for the show. Although no official confirmation has been made, the prospect of witnessing their on-screen chemistry is certainly intriguing. The show, which will be hosted by Salman Khan, is set to premiere in October of this year.

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Who are Ankita and Vicky?

Ankita Lokhande is a well-known figure in the television industry, having gained prominence for her role in Pavitra Rishta. She made her debut in Bollywood alongside Kangana Ranaut in Manikarnika. Also, she had a brief appearance in Baaghi 3 starring Tiger Shroff and Shraddha Kapoor. Vicky Jain, on the other hand, is a businessman who tied the knot with Ankita in December of the previous year. The couple previously participated in the reality show Smart Jodi and emerged as the winners.

While official contestant confirmations are still pending, there are swirling rumours about other potential participants. Shafaq Naaz, the sister of Falaq Naaz, is another potential contender. Aishwarya Sharma and Anjum Fakih, former Khatron Ke Khiladi 13 contestants may join as well. Awez Darbar, Seema Haider, and Sachin Meena also have chances to join the show.

Notably, Anjali Arora and Munawar Faruqui from Lock Upp are reportedly set to step into the Bigg Boss 17 house.
Participants attend a donation ceremony of solar street lights in Yangon, Myanmar, Aug. 29, 2023. (Photo by Myo Kyaw Soe/Xinhua)

YANGON, Aug. 29 (Xinhua) -- The Yunnan Provincial People's Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries has donated 60 sets of solar-powered streetlights to the Yangon Electricity Supply Corporation in Myanmar.

The ceremony was held in Yangon on Tuesday.

Speaking at the ceremony, Yangon Region Minister for Natural Resources U Zaw Win expressed thanks to the Chinese friendship association, saying that the donation will help strengthen Myanmar-China friendship.

Fifty sets of the solar lights have been installed around the Thuwunna Stadium in Yangon, and they will provide well-lit conditions for athletes to train and exercise, contributing to their overall well-being, he said.

These solar streetlights, which utilize solar energy, have the benefits of saving electricity and minimizing environmental impact, he added.

Ouyang Daobing, economic and commercial counselor of the Chinese Embassy in Myanmar, said that people-to-people exchanges such as the donation of streetlights are integral to comprehensive cooperation between China and Myanmar.

They will not only promote the China-Myanmar "Paukphaw" friendship, but also contribute to building a community with a shared future, he said.

Gao Wei, chief representative of Yunnan Commercial Representative Office in Myanmar, said that the installation of solar streetlights around the Thuwunna Stadium will help deepen friendship between the people of the two countries.

He said that by lighting the stadium and surrounding areas, these streetlights will offer security to both athletes and local residents.

The 60 sets of solar streetlights arrived in Myanmar in September 2022. Of them, 50 sets were installed around the Thuwunna Stadium in Yangon in February 2023, the remaining 10 sets were sent to and donated to the Ministry of Electric Power in Nay Pyi Taw. 

This photo taken on Aug. 29, 2023 shows solar street lights around the Thuwunna Stadium in Yangon, Myanmar. (Photo by Myo Kyaw Soe/Xinhua)
Kalki Koechlin takes on a unique role in the upcoming film Goldfish, where she portrays a character of mixed Indian and British heritage. Alongside her is Deepti Naval, playing her mother. As Kalki anticipates the release of Goldfish, she candidly discusses how her skin color has influenced her career in Bollywood.

In Goldfish, the story revolves around a young woman who returns to her hometown to care for her mother, who is suffering from dementia. As she confronts her past and seeks support from her neighborhood, Kalkis character grapples with the scars of her childhood.

Despite being born in Pondicherry, India, to French parents, Joel Koechlin and Francoise Armandie, who migrated from Angers, France, Kalki has spent most of her life in India.

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She is even a descendant of Maurice Koechlin, a French structural engineer renowned for his role in designing and building the Eiffel Tower. Her multilingual abilities include fluency in Tamil, English, and French.

Goldfish holds a special place for the actor due to its intricate, multifaceted, and emotionally resonant script. She acknowledges that such scripts are a rarity in the industry. Kalki also reflects on the limited roles available to her in Bollywood due to her skin color. The film aligns with her own mixed Indian and British identity, making it a role she felt naturally suited for.

Kalkis last appearance on the big screen was in the 2019 Hindi movie Gully Boy. She also made waves in the acclaimed series Made in Heaven, co-starring with Jim Sarbh.

Previously, Kalki Koechlin took on the role of a French immigrant in Siddharth Sinhas short film, The Job. Produced by Kushal Shrivastava, this psychological thriller aimed to critique the corporate world and its treatment of employees. Kalkis compelling performance drew praise from critics and added to the films appeal.
Bangladesh is preparing to start safe and voluntary repatriation of Rohingya refugees to their homeland Myanmar later this year, initially with around 1,000 people, a senior government official said here.

As part of confidence-building measures, a Bangladesh delegation is set to visit Myanmar next month while a team from Myanmar will be here soon to talk to the refugees, Xinhua news agency quoted Foreign Secretary Masud Bin Momen tas saying to reporters.

Weve prepared a list of over 3,000 Rohingya from whom we expect to send back 1,000 to Myanmar initially in or around December, he said.

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He said the reduction of assistance for Rohingya, whose population is growing with around 30,000 newborns every year, is compounding the crisis in the refugee camps in Bangladesh.

Against this backdrop, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has recently urged the international community to continue providing necessary humanitarian support till the sustainable repatriation.

More than 1 million displaced Rohingya from Myanmar are currently living Kutupalong and Nayapara refugee camps in Coxs Bazar, some 300 km southeast of the capital Dhaka, in some of the largest and most densely populated camps in the world.

The UN has described the Rohingya as the most persecuted minority in the world.

More than half of all Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh (52 per cent) are children, while 51 per cent are comprised of women and girls.

The current refugee population accounts for one-third of the total population in the Coxs Bazar.

Since 2021, to decongest the 33 camps in Coxs Bazar, nearly 30,000 refugees have been relocated to Bhasan Char island by the government of Bangladesh.
BJP President J P Nadda on Tuesday appointed Anil Antony, son of Congress veteran leader A K Antony, BJP national spokesperson and Sikh leader Manjinder Singh Sirsa partys national secretary.

Antony had joined the BJP in April 2023. He had resigned from the Congress after his tweet criticising the controversial BBC documentary on Prime Minister Modi triggered a row within the grand old party.

Antony, who headed the Digital Media cell of the Kerala Congress, slammed the Congress leadership for working for a single-family instead of working for the country.

Sirsa joined the BJP in December 2021 after quitting the Shiromani Akali Dal. He is a former MLA from Delhi.

The appointments will take effect immediately.
Reacting to the standard map released by Beijing, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge on Tuesday said Indian territories, including Arunachal Pradesh and Aksai Chin, were an indistinguishable and inalienable part of India and no arbitrarily invented Chinese map could change that.

China is a habitual offender when it comes to renaming and redrawing maps of territories belonging to other countries. The Indian National Congress takes strong objection to any such illegal representation or renaming of Indias territories, he said on X (formerly Twitter).

We want a peaceful coexistence with our neighbours, including China and want peace and tranquillity at the LAC. It is, however, painful to note that Chinas deception and belligerence continues, post Galwan, in the wake of PM Modi giving them a free pass, by sayingno one entered our territory after 20 of our brave soldiers were martyred, Kharge added.

He said that the status quo ante before May 2020 should be of utmost importance, and the Modi Government must not budge from anything less than the restoration of the same. We hope that the G-20 Summit in India, will be another opportunity for us to expose the issue of Chinas transgressions into Indian territory at the global stage, he added.

Kharge said the Modi Government must ensure that the illegal Chinese occupation of 2000 square kilometres of Indian territory along the LAC must end.
The opposition INDIA coalition, an acronym for Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance, is set to hold a crucial conference this week to plan its strategy against the BJP as the Lok Sabha election preparations pick up steam.

On August 31 and September 1, the INDIA coalition will meet for the third time in Mumbai, with the position of convener and perhaps chairperson of the alliance serving as a major debate point. Despite Sonia Gandhi being favoured to convene the bloc, another leader  possibly Bihar CM Nitish Kumar, a national daily quoted top sources, maybe one of the front runners indicating that Sonia Gandhi might not be agreeable to some. At a dinner for 26 party leaders on August 31 at Mumbais Grand Hyatt Hotel, the exact agenda for the September 1 INDIA meeting will be decided.

Nitish Kumar reaffirmed his lack of interest in any position on Monday. Kumar declared, I do not want anything, in Patna today. NCP leader Sharad Pawar met his nephew Ajit Pawar, who recently left the Opposition to join the BJP-Shiv Sena administration in Maharashtra.

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The Maha Vikas Aghadis constituents Congress and Shiv Sena (UBT) publicly complained that the NCP founders private meetings with Ajit were confusing the MVA cadres. Opposition leaders continue to be apprehensive of elder Pawars politics.

Uncertainty still exists regarding whether the convenership issue will be discussed at the Mumbai gathering because Pawar and Nitish are both playing their own cards.

Sonia is the veteran who is most likely to offer the alliance broad leadership since, according to sources of the national newspaper, any coalition that wants to succeed against the BJP must first maintain its unity. Sonia Gandhis talent for bridging divides is well known. The question is whether she concurs, according to a top opposition leader.

Despite having various inconsistencies, the INDIA group is hoping to nominate a single candidate to challenge the BJP in the general election of 2024.

Meanwhile on September 1, BJP chief JP Nadda is also likely to hold a review of the ongoing Lok Sabha Pravas Yojana under which Union Ministers have been tasked with nurturing over 160 weak parliamentary segments which the party lost in 2019. However, there is no official word on the meeting.
With the Congress attacking the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party-Jannayak Janta Party (BJP-JJP) coalition government over alleged flaws in the Parivar Pehchan Patra (PPP), Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar on Tuesday defended the ambitious programme saying PPP has a robust correction and grievance redressal mechanism through online portals.

Speaking on the calling attention motion tabled by the members of PPP during the monsoon session of the Haryana Assembly today, the CM said PPP draws from the digital infrastructure and principles created by Aadhaar.

He, however, said many times it is more complicated than Aadhar in its delivery as Aadhaar primarily keeps unique identity information whereas PPP goes far beyond to maintain socio-economic information besides unique identity information in the form of Aadhaar.

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Khattar said Aadhaar took over six years to achieve mass scale and integration with schemes whereas PPP has been able to achieve it in over two years despite the Corona pandemic intervening in between.

The CM said PPPs primary objective is to deliver welfare schemes and other services of the government at the doorstep of the beneficiary. He said it eliminates the need for submission of affidavits or documents for many schemes and services.

Khattar said the expansion of the delivery of public welfare schemes like benefit of subsidized rations under the Public Distribution System (PDS) to Below Poverty Line (BPL), pro-active benefit of Old Age Samman Allowance, Divyang Pension benefits, Mukhyamantri Vivah Shagun Yojana, Mukhyamantri Antyodaya Parivar Utthan Yojana etc have been made possible because of implementation of PPP.

The CM said over 9.67 lakh ration cards have been added since January 2022 benefitting a large section of the deserving population that was earlier being denied the benefits of PDS besides the elimination of a large number of ineligible beneficiaries.

He said the Old Age Samman Allowance benefits have been linked pro-actively to PPP. The verification process of all those in the age group of 59 to 70 are being identified including those who were left out in the earlier process and their consent is being sought for start of the allowance.

Khattar said in the current academic year 2023-24, 3.52 lakh fresh admissions have been made in private and government schools based on PPP data. Similarly, 1.28 lakh admissions have been made in colleges through the Online Admission Portal of the Department of Higher Education using PPP data.
President Droupadi Murmu on Tuesday extended greetings to people in Kerala on the occasion of Onam, saying that on this auspicious occasion, we express our gratitude to the mother nature for the countless bounties.

Taking to social media platform X, formerly Twitter, Rashtrapati Bhavan said, Greetings to all fellow citizens and our brothers and sisters in Kerala on Onam! On this auspicious occasion we express our gratitude to Mother nature for the countless bounties. May this harvest festival usher in prosperity and the spirit of harmony among all.

The ten-day-long Thiru-Onam or Thiruvonam celebrations, which mark the return of the revered King Mahabali, also known as Maveli, carry an air of excitement and jubilation.

This vibrant festival is an emblem of Keralas rich heritage and cultural splendour.

The 10-day Onam celebrations in Kerala started with the Atham celebrations on August 20. It is a festival that honours King Mahabali and Vamana.

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To welcome Mahabali, people started constructing floral carpets (Pookkalam) in front of their homes and institutions. Celebrations of many kinds begin today in schools, universities, offices, and other locations.

During the Onam festival, people usually wear traditional kasavu saris and mundu (dhoti). It is a time when family members and friends gather and exchange gifts like new dresses.

Unique food items are prepared at home and distributed to others on this occasion and one of the highlights of the Onam celebrations is the preparation of Onasadya, a special vegetarian feast.

Onam is celebrated in the Chingam month, which marks the beginning of the Malayalam calendar. This is a harvest celebration.

In Kerala, Onam is celebrated to remember the exemplary governance under the leadership of daitya monarch Mahabali, a mythological ruler who once governed Kerala.

According to tradition, the devas and gods plotted to terminate Mahabalis rule because they were jealous of his popularity and authority. They sent Vamana to earth as a dwarf Brahmin, who stomped Mahabali to the patala (netherworld).

This is a significant occasion for merchants as well. People spend money on purchases. Shops also offer large discounts to attract clients. Kerala is celebrating for the next ten days.

Floral carpets are made by women dressed in traditional saris. They gather and sing a well-known song in honour of the occasion.
It is tragic irony of history that the custodians of peace have become the proprietors of war. The Big Five, to fulfill their selfish agenda had converted the Security Council into a private club, an exclusive nuclear club, and at best a debating society making it irrelevant in the modern world.

The big five, especially the United States, have been dominating the world affairs as well as the United Nations for the last seven decades and, unless it conformed to US State policy, no action could be taken by the Security Council. Edward Luck, an international scholar said, The last thing the US wants is an independent UN throwing its weight around as the United States always wanted a feeble United Nations to forestall UN interference with, or resistance to, American policies.

This was corroborated by Daniel Patrick Moynihan, former US Ambassador to the United Nations, who said, The Department of State desired that the United Nations prove utterly ineffective in whatever measures it undertook. The task was given to me, and I carried it for- ward with not inconsiderable success.

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The Big Five have misused the forum as a springboard as well as a shield for their individ- ual misadventures knowing that the UN will not be able to rest- rain or take any action against them ~ they will use their veto power. With the help of organizations which are outside the UN system like the NATO, the Big Five have waged unjustified wars at will without bothering about the UN and the world opinion.

US military operations dur- ing the prolonged Cold War and invasions of Vietnam, Iran, Iraq, Syria and Afghanistan have not only caused miseries and death to millions of innocent people but also made the world more unsafe.

The monumental failure and ineffectiveness of the Security Council which was entrust- ed with the legislative and the executive powers of the UN has outraged the consciousness of the world evoking widespread criticisms from political scientists, legal luminaries, academicians, the civil society, the Secretary General and member-states of the UN and also world leaders including the Presidents of the Critics (foremost among them is the British historian Paul Kennedy) have accused the Security Council of being inef- fective, biased and also corrupt.

The Councils handling of the Kashmir issue and the Pales- tine question showed its bias, incompetence and lack of understanding of the real issues. In the case of Kashmir, there

was a gross miscarriage of justice instead of redressing the grievance, it rewarded the

aggressor and punished the victim as if the rape victim is responsible for the rape. Similarly, there were hundreds of cases where the Security Council failed to deliver justice.

Moreover, the Security Council and the UN have done very little to achieve disarmament, stop nuclear proliferation and reduce or eliminate nuclear weapons. Hence, there is a world-wide outcry for a rational reform of the UN, especially the Security Council.

Talks of reform of the Security Council began from the San Francisco Conference itself in 1945 when a number of delegates led by Australia demanded deletion of the provision for the Veto Power given to the Permanent members but the Big Five tore up the draft Charter and threatened the Conference say- ing Charter with Veto power or no Charter.

During the last three decades, proposals and counter proposals for UNSC reform have poured in from the G-20 nations, world leaders, academic and research institutions and from within the UN itself.

Yet, while the whole world has been crying for reform which involves amendment of the UN Charter, nothing could be done because of the intransigence and lack of unanimity of the Permanent members.

The UN Charter itself is to be blamed for the stalemate. Article 108 states: Amendments to the present Charter shall come into force for all Members of the United Nations when they have been adopted by a vote of two-thirds of the members of the General Assembly and ratified in accordance with their respective constitutional processes by two-thirds of the Members of the United Nations, including all the permanent members of the Security Council. This provision made any reform of the UNSC an impossibility.

Reform of the UNSC involves five issues ~ (i) cat- egory of member- ship, (ii) the ques- tion of veto power, (iii) regional representation, (iv) size of enlarged Council and working methods and (v) Security Council ~ General Assembly relationship. These issues need to be addressed because of dramatic changes in geopolitics during the last few de- cades. Keeping the major economic and political powers like the G-4 countries ( Japan, Germany, India and Brazil) and the emerging economies of Africa like Nigeria and South Africa permanently out of the decision-making process of the Security Council has created an absurd situation calling for urgent reform.

As stated by Ban Ki-Moon, former UN Secretary General, The U.N. Security Council reform, being debated since two decades is too long overdue and the necessary expansion must be made considering how much the world has changed.

In 2017, the G-4 nations gave a reasonable solution to the stalemate agreeing to be induct- ed as permanent members and temporarily forego the veto power. If accepted, the ten largest military powers and nine out of 10 largest economies would have shared seats in the UNSC.

In 2005, the UN Secretary General, Kofi Annan (known as the Kofi Annan Plan), based on the recommendations of a team of advisers, urged the UNSC for a consensus for creating six new permanent members, plus three new nonpermanent members for a total of 24.

In the same year, the G-4 nations issued a joint statement mutually backing each others claim for permanent status along with two African countries.

The Big Five, never willing to give up their veto power and position, reluctantly announced their respective positions. China supported a stronger represen- tation of developing countries including India but opposed inclusion of Japan.

Russia lent strong support for inducting India as a perma- nent member. The UK and France essentially supported the G-4 position ~ expansion of UNSC with inclusion of India, Brazil, Germany and Japan as permanent members and more African countries as members

The United States supported permanent membership for India and Japan. It will be seen that there has been a broad consensus on India as a permanent member of UNSC but clubbing her with other nations has been a spoiler.

Hundreds of papers and proposals to reform the Security Council and the United Nations as a whole beginning from the San Francisco Conference, 1945 have continued to the present today.

A number of international institutions like the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace are actively engaged for the cause of reform of the United Nations and a new world order.

But the stalemate continues and there is no sign of ending. As Paul Kennedy, the British his- torian has said, Everyone ag- rees that the present structure is flawed. But consensus on how to fix it remains out of reach.

Any reform of the United Nations and the Security Council may not see the light of the day in the near future.

But there is always a silver lining in the dark clouds. The Security Council has failed and betrayed the world.

But the rest of the United Nations System ~ the autonomous Specialized Agencies, the Special Programmes and Funds and the Inter-Governmental International Organizations have been functioning fairly well even though there is an urgent need for reform in many of them, especially the IMF and the World Bank.

No doubt, together, they have contributed immensely to the economic, social and cultur- al development and interna- tional cooperation and understanding making the world a global village.

(The writer is a former Dy. Comptroller &Auditor General of India and a former Ombudsman of Reserve Bank of India. He is also a writer of several books and can be reached at brahmas@gmail.com)
India on Tuesday lodged a strong protest with China after Beijing needled New Delhi on Arunachal Pradesh and Aksai Chin, sparking fresh tensions between the two Asian giants.

Within days of talks between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping in South Africa, Beijing officially released the 2023 edition of its standard map, which shows Arunachal Pradesh and the Aksai Chin region as part of Chinese territory.

We reject these claims (by China) as they have no basis. Such steps by the Chinese side only complicate the resolution of the boundary question, Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said.

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India lodged a strong protest through diplomatic channels with the Chinese side on the so-called 2023 standard map of China that lays claim to Indias territory, he said.

The map released on 28 August, four days after the Modi-Xi meeting in Johannesburg on the margins of the BRICS summit, shows Arunachal Pradesh, which China claims as South Tibet, and Aksai Chin, occupied by it in the 1962 war as part of its territory. Taiwan and the disputed South China Sea are also included within Chinese territory in the new map.

The map was introduced via the Ministry of Natural Resources standard map service website. The 2023 edition of Chinas standard map was officially released on Monday and launched on the website of the standard map service hosted by the Ministry of Natural Resources. This map is compiled based on the drawing method of the national boundaries of China and various countries in the world, Chinese state-run Global Times said.

The map also incorporates Chinas claims over the nine-dash line thus laying claim to a large part of the South China Sea. Chinas neighbours like Vietnam, the Philippines, Malaysia, and Brunei have also laid claims over the disputed sea.

New Delhi is unlikely to take Chinas move kindly since the two countries have already been locked in a tense border row at eastern Ladakh since April-May 2020, resulting in bilateral ties touching a new low. Despite umpteen meetings between top military commanders and diplomats, the border has not been resolved so far.

Amid the border dispute, PM Modi held talks with President Xi in Johannesburg on 24 August at which the two sides agreed to step up efforts for the disengagement of troops and de-escalation of tensions along the Line of Actual Control (LAC).

A day later, however, the two sides indulged in diplomatic sparring after the Chinese claimed that PM Modi had sought a meeting with Xi while New Delhi stated that there was a pending request from the Chinese side for the bilateral meeting.

Chinas latest action comes about ten days before President Xi visits New Delhi for the G20 Summit to be hosted by India on 9-10 September.
According to the New York Post, an American Airlines pilot traveled 5,880 miles (9462 kilometers) nonstop from Tokyo to Texas in order to reunite a 9-year-old girl with her misplaced toy. Notably, Beatrice, the girls cherished American Girl doll, was lost following a family vacation. The family desperately looked through their luggage in an attempt to discover the doll, but they were unsuccessful.

The doll was last seen by her parents when they were in Tokyo, where they had stopped on their way back to Texas from Indonesia.

For the previous three or four years, Beatrice played a significant role in our lives. Her sadness makes me sad, too, Rudy Dominguez, Valentina Dominguezs father, stated.

The parents wrote about the doll on Facebook in an effort to acquire any clues after seeing their daughters devastated reaction. Fortunately, Turkish Airlines lost and found at Tokyos Haneda Airport was notified after American Airlines pilot James Danen noticed the ad. He tracked out the misplaced doll, traveled with it while taking pictures of Beatrice, and eventually reunited the doll with the nine-year-old.

The doll was delivered to the Dominguez familys home by the pilot, who also happens to reside nearby, on August 21. Valentina was pleased to receive the doll.

Its just who I am. Helping people is what I enjoy doing the most. The pilot remarked, I was really happy I could do something nice for someone.

Beatrice is very important to me. Shes my best buddy and she makes me happy. I felt terrible when we checked into our hotel and she went missing. I felt like my heart had been broken, Valentina said to Good Morning America.

The pilots heroic deed left the Dominguez family speechless, and they thanked everyone who assisted in recovering the doll.

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aiBANK, a leading provider of integrated retail, corporate and Islamic banking solutions in Egypt, has entered into a long-term agreement with Visa to provide customers with a new integrated package of e-payment solutions.

This strategic partnership aims to provide customers with a comprehensive range of innovative products and services tailored to modern digital payment preferences.

The collaboration signifies aiBANK's dedication to promoting financial inclusivity and accelerating the adoption of digital transactions in line with the directives of the Central Bank of Egypt and the Financial Regulatory Authority.

Cutting-edge solutions

By offering cutting-edge solutions aligned with the latest digital payment trends, this partnership aims to encourage customers to embrace electronic payment methods across all segments.

Key representatives from both aiBANK and Visa gathered for the protocols signing ceremony, which included Iman Badr, Senior Group Head Consumer & Business Banking at aiBANK; Malak Al-Baba, Visa Egypts Country Manager; Tamer Seif El-Din, CEO and Managing Director of aiBANK; Amr Gamali, Deputy CEO Business at aiBANK; Hisham Abdel-Aal, Deputy CEO Control & Support at aiBANK; Sherif Nada, Chief of Retail & Branches Network at aiBANK; and Mohamed Abdel Monsef, Head of Retail Products Development at aiBANK; and Ahmed ElKaffass, Director, Business Development from Visa.

Badr said: "Our aim is to create a seamless banking experience by offering the latest digital payment solutions. In collaboration with Visa, one of the largest and most renowned payment brands worldwide, the bank will be able to provide the best service to customers in Egypt and during their time abroad, benefiting from Visa's massive global network."

Financial inclusion

"This collaboration broadens our e-payment offering, aligning with aiBANK's goals to promote financial inclusion and digital innovation in the Egyptian banking sector. Our intention is to expand our market presence in Egypt by introducing innovative banking products catering to various customer segments, added Nada.

Monsef said: The foundation of our initiatives is centered on nurturing strategic and impactful partnerships, fueling our robust research and development efforts to provide innovative, safer, and more exclusive products to empower customers and provide them with comfort.

Al-Baba said: "Our strategic partnership will introduce new solutions and enhance customer experiences, aligning with our shared vision to improve digital payment options and cultivate a convenient and secure environment for electronic transactions. Visa is committed to supporting aiBANK through providing innovative and reliable solutions and exceptional benefits that facilitate a seamless transition for customers, making digital payments an intuitive and preferred choice.

This collaboration follows aiBANK's partnership with InstaPay earlier this year, which empowered customers to instantly transfer money between bank accounts, cards, and digital wallets using their mobile phones, underscoring the banks commitment to fostering digital payment solutions and promoting a cashless society.-- TradeArabia News Service
Chinese Premier Li Qiang meets with visiting U.S. Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Aug. 29, 2023. (Xinhua/Rao Aimin)

BEIJING, Aug. 29 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Premier Li Qiang met with visiting U.S. Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo on Tuesday in Beijing, calling on both sides to enhance mutually beneficial cooperation.

Li said the economic and trade relations between China and the United States are mutually beneficial and win-win in nature. Politicizing economic and trade issues and overstretching the concept of security will not only seriously affect bilateral relations and mutual trust, but also undermine the interests of enterprises and people of the two countries, and will have a disastrous impact on the global economy.

Noting that China is the largest developing country and the United States is the largest developed country, Li said the two sides should strengthen mutually beneficial cooperation, reduce friction and confrontation, and jointly promote world economic recovery and cope with global challenges.

Li said a sound and stable China-U.S. relationship benefits both countries and the world, and China is glad to see that the United States has recently repeatedly said it is committed to returning to the agenda set by the two heads of state in Bali.

"Mutual respect, peaceful coexistence and win-win cooperation are the right ways for China and the United States to get along. We hope that the U.S. side will work with China to take more practical and beneficial actions to maintain and develop bilateral relations," he added.

Li said China is willing to strengthen dialogue and cooperation with the United States on the economy and trade, and to promote the sound development of bilateral economic and trade relations. He said he hopes that the United States will work with China in the same direction.

China is actively advancing its high-level opening-up and making efforts to provide a world-class, market-oriented business environment governed by a sound legal framework, Li said. The country is also working to ease market access further, treat foreign companies in the same manner as domestic firms, and safeguard and promote fair competition, he said, adding that China will only open its doors even wider to the outside world.

Raimondo said that the Biden administration supports China's economic development and its improvement of people's livelihoods, has no intention of containing China's development, does not seek to decouple from China, is willing to maintain communication and normal economic and trade relations, and is willing to promote the steady development of bilateral relations.

The U.S. side also stands ready to strengthen cooperation with China on artificial intelligence, climate change work, and combating fentanyl, Raimondo added. 
Saint-Laurent, CA (H4T1V6)

Today

Light snow this morning will give way to a mixture of rain and snow this afternoon. High around 40F. Winds NW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 90%..

Tonight

Mostly cloudy early, then clearing overnight. Low 31F. Winds WNW at 5 to 10 mph.
Tracy Adair is communications and operations associate at Stand Up America, a pro-democracy organization. The Fulcrum covers whats making democracy dysfunctional and efforts to fix our governing systems.
Have an interesting bit of news youd like to see mentioned in the Along the Way column? Email it to Natasha Connolly at news@thesunchronicle.com.
JERUSALEM, Aug. 29 (Xinhua) -- Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced Tuesday a revision to the procedures for confidential diplomatic meetings after his foreign minister sparked controversy by disclosing a closed-door meeting with the Libyan counterpart.

Netanyahu instructed all government ministers to seek approval from his office before conducting any confidential meetings, according to a statement released by the PM's office.

In addition, public statements regarding such meetings would need to receive approval from the prime minister's office ahead of their publication, according to the statement.

The statement marks Netanyahu's first remarks on the case.

The Israeli Foreign Ministry revealed in an official press release on Sunday that Israeli Foreign Minister Eli Cohen and Libyan Foreign Minister Najla al-Mangoush met in Rome last week. Cohen said the meeting was "the first step" toward building future ties with Libya and their discussions encompassed preserving the heritage of the Jewish community in Libya and renovating synagogues there.

The two countries don't have official ties.

Shortly later, Abdul-Hamid Dbeibah, Libya's prime minister in Tripoli, announced the suspension of al-Mangoush. The Libyan foreign minister fled to Turkiye out of fear for her safety after the meeting triggered an uproar in Libya. 
Job Title: Political/Economic Office Management Assistant (Part-time Jobs)

Organisation: United States US Embassy, US Mission in Uganda

Duty Station: Kampala, Uganda

Salary: USD $36,195 /Per Year

Position Number: Kampala-2023-074

About US Embassy:

The United States Embassy in Kampala, Uganda has enjoyed diplomatic relations with Uganda for over 30 years. Ambassador Natalie E. Brown currently heads the U.S Mission to Uganda. The Mission is composed of several offices and organizations all working under the auspices of the Embassy and at the direction of the Ambassador.

Among the offices operating under the U.S Mission to Uganda are:

United States Agency for International Development (USAID)

Centers for Disease Control (CDC)

Peace Corps

Job Summary: The Political/Economic Office Management Assistant is a key member of the 12-person POL/ECON Section. The positions direct supervisor is the deputy Counselor for Political and Economic Affairs. The position is primarily responsible for supporting the POL/ECON Counselor and Deputy Counselor, but also assists the other officers in the section as requested and time permits. S/he performs a full range of office management, administrative, records, logistics and protocol duties. The incumbent backs up the Human Rights Officer on overseeing all Leahy vetting functions in his/her absence.









Qualifications, Skills and Experience:

NOTE: All applicants must address each selection criterion detailed below with specific and comprehensive information supporting each item.

The applicants for the United States US Embassy Political/Economic Office Management Assistant job opportunity should have completed Secondary School. Required

At least three years of clerical, administrative, office support, event or travel management in an office setting is required.

The incumbent must become aware of pertinent U.S. government regulations and Embassy policies, understanding and correctly applying them. The incumbent must also quickly grasp the basics of the sections substantive work enough to provide needed support for those functions. Must understand how businesses/restaurants arrangements are made and confirmed in Uganda, and how to set up events in Uganda.

Excellent analytical, problem-solving and interpersonal skills, tact, and diplomacy are required.

The incumbent should also possess good managerial skills, and a personality that inspires confidence in Locally Employed Staff and permits the maintenance of effective working relationships with employees and supervisors.

Proven ability to forecast needs for resources, and to plan and assess problems and develop realistic solutions; anticipate all scheduling and logistical needs for the Counselor and the Deputy Counsellor to ensure the smooth functioning of their schedules;

Ability to tactfully and efficiently work with American officers and Locally Employed Staff so that the Pol/Econ section provides the highest quality support to the Mission;

Proven ability to tactfully manage other sections contributions to the Leahy Vetting process in order to process requests in a timely fashion;

Able to work constructively with Washington-based administrators of the Leahy Vetting process in order to gain the maximum amount of leeway and receptivity for Missions nominees in the most timely fashion; and the ability to create and maintain a good working climate in order to ensure maximum productivity in a service-oriented fashion.

Basic typing skills required.

Must be able to use Microsoft Office Suites and. Numerical skills required.

Language: Level IV (Fluent) speaking/reading/writing of English is required.

How to Apply:

All those interested in working with the United States Embassy, US Mission in Kampala should send their applications online at the link below.

Click Here

Deadline: 22nd September 2023

For more of the latest jobs, please visit https://www.theugandanjobline.com or find us on our facebook page https://www.facebook.com/UgandanJobline
A recent report from the prestigious University of Chicago's Energy Policy Institute (EPIC) underscores the dire consequences of surging air pollution levels in South Asia, a region plagued by some of the world's most severe pollution. This comprehensive study reveals that the increase in air pollution could slash life expectancy by more than five years per individual.

South Asia, comprising nations such as India, Bangladesh, Nepal, and Pakistan, has now become responsible for over 50 percent of the global years of life lost due to pollution, as reported in EPIC's latest Air Quality Life Index. The relentless march of industrialization and the burgeoning population have been the chief culprits behind the declining air quality in this region. Current levels of particulate pollution have surged by over 50 percent compared to the turn of the century, overshadowing even more apparent health hazards.

For instance, the study highlights Bangladesh, dubbed the world's most polluted country, where each citizen stands to lose an average of 6.8 years of life, a stark contrast to the 3.6 months in the United States. The research employs sophisticated satellite data to quantify the life expectancy impact of an upsurge in fine airborne particles.

The report applauds China's commendable efforts in reducing pollution levels by a remarkable 42.3 percent between 2013 and 2021

India emerges as a significant contributor, responsible for a staggering 59 percent of the world's increased pollution levels since 2013, the report notes. Hazardous air quality looms ominously over several of the country's highly polluted regions.

In New Delhi, the world's most densely populated mega-city and an unfortunate leader in pollution, the average lifespan has plummeted by over a decade. The EPIC study spotlights a compelling fact: adhering to the World Health Organisation's (WHO) recommended limits for PM 2.5 airborne particles, notorious for damaging lungs, could potentially add 2.3 years to average life expectancy. This translates to a remarkable cumulative gain of 17.8 billion life years.

The report delves further, revealing that if WHO guidelines were met, an average resident of Pakistan could gain 3.9 additional years of life, while in Nepal, this figure would be an impressive 4.6 years.

In a contrasting scenario, China emerges as a beacon of hope. The report applauds China's commendable efforts in reducing pollution levels by a remarkable 42.3 percent between 2013 and 2021. This serves as a stark reminder of the pivotal role governments must play in furnishing accessible air quality data, thereby addressing global disparities in the fight against pollution.
On the 11th day of hearing the litany of pleas challenging the abrogation of Article 370, the Supreme Court asked the Centre to come up with a timeframe about when Jammu and Kashmir's union territory status will be converted to statehood.



Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for the central government, said on Tuesday that Jammu and Kashmir's current status as a union territory is temporary and pointed out examples of Assam, Tripura and Arunachal Pradesh.

Its necessary that for some time it remains under the union as a union territory. Ultimately, J&K will become a state, the Solicitor General told a five-judge constitution bench headed by Chief Justice of India D.Y. Chandrachud. The bench also comprises Justices Sanjay Kishan Kaul, Sanjiv Khanna, B.R. Gavai and Surya Kant.

Mehta said he will make a positive statement on August 31. However, he pointed out that Ladakh will continue to remain a union territory.

However, the court said lack of electoral democracy cannot be permitted indefinitely. "This has to come an end... give us the specific time frame as to when will you restore actual democracy. We want to record this," the court said, asking Mehta and Attorney General R. Venkataramani to seek instructions from the political executive and get back to the court.

On Monday, CJI Chandrachud observed that by enacting Article 35A, the Centre has virtually taken away fundamental rights of equality, liberty to practice profession in any part of the country. He made the remarks after Mehta referred to the contentious provision in the Indian Constitution, saying it gave special rights to only permanent residents of the erstwhile state and was discriminatory.

The Centre told the bench headed by the CJI that citizens have been misguided that the special provisions for Jammu and Kashmir were "not discrimination but a privilege".



"Even today two political parties are before this court defending Article 370 and 35A," the solicitor general told the top court, without referring to the two main parties in Jammu and Kashmir.

-- with PTI inputs
A day after China released a new map showing Arunachal Pradesh and Akasi Chin as its territories, India reacted sharply on Tuesday saying such moves would only complicate the border issues. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar called Chinas claims absurd and said putting out maps does not change anything.

The minister said it is an old habit of the neighbouring country to stake claim on territories that do not belong to them.

"China has put out maps with territories (that are) not theirs. (It is an) old habit. Just by putting out maps with parts of India... this doesn't change in anything, the minister said in an interview to NDTV.

"Our government is very clear about what our territories are. Making absurd claims does not make other people's territories yours," he said.

The Ministry of External Affairs has put out a statement rejecting the Chinese claims and saying such steps only complicate the resolution of the boundary question.

"We have today lodged a strong protest through diplomatic channels with the Chinese side on the so called 2023 "standard map of China that lays claim to Indias territory. We reject these claims as they have no basis. Such steps by the Chinese side only complicate the resolution of the boundary question," MEA spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said.

China on Monday released its standard map in which Aksai Chin and Arunachal Pradesh are among the South and South-East Asian territories marked within the Chinese borders.

Beijing has also included Taiwan as part of its official territory as well as the areas in South China Seas marked with the contentious Nine-Dash Line, which is disputed by the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei and Taiwan.

"The 2023 edition of China's standard map was officially released on Monday and launched on the website of the standard map service hosted by the Ministry of Natural Resources," state-run Global Times said in a post on X.

"This map is compiled based on the drawing method of the national boundaries of China and various countries in the world, the post said.

The Chinese move has sparked off a political outrage in India with the opposition Congress urging the government to use the upcoming G20 Summit to expose China's transgressions into Indian territory at the global stage.

Party president Mallikarjun Kharge said Indian territories including Arunachal Pradesh and Aksai Chin are indistinguishable and inalienable part of India and "no arbitrarily invented Chinese map can change that".

"China is a habitual offender when it comes to renaming and redrawing maps of territories, belonging to other countries. The Indian National Congress takes strong objection to any such illegal representation or renaming of India's territories," he wrote on X.

The fresh development comes amid continuing strain in bilateral ties between New Delhi and Beijing in view of the lingering border standoff in eastern Ladakh. Last week, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping held a brief conversation on the sidelines of the BRICS summit in Johannesburg.

While India has been maintaining that there can be no normalisation of ties between the two countries without peace along the border areas, China has been arguing that the boundary issue should not hold back overall relations.
Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng meets with visiting U.S. Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo in Beijing, capital of China, Aug. 29, 2023. (Xinhua/Yue Yuewei)

BEIJING, Aug. 29 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng met with visiting U.S. Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo in Beijing on Tuesday.

The two sides had candid, pragmatic and constructive discussions over implementing the important consensus reached at the Bali meeting between the two countries' heads of state, as well as economic and trade issues of common concern.

The Chinese side expressed its concerns over measures taken by the United States, such as Section 301 tariffs, export controls against China and two-way investment restrictions.

The two sides agreed to continue to maintain communication and support enterprises of the two countries in carrying out pragmatic cooperation. 

Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng meets with visiting U.S. Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo in Beijing, capital of China, Aug. 29, 2023. (Xinhua/Yue Yuewei)
Even as the Union government has locked horn with the Bihar government in Supreme Court over the latters caste survey, Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel has demanded that a national level census be conducted at the earliest with a separate code for other backward classes (OBCs).

The chief ministers demand, made through a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, also comes on the backdrop that a unanimously passed bill by Chhattisgarh assemblyincreasing the caste quotas to 76 per cent including 27 per cent for the OBCsremains stuck at the governors office for approval for the past nine months.

Now, with assembly polls round the corner, the Congress government seems to be giving further push to the issue that affects about 42 per cent of the states population.

Baghel urged the PM to take necessary initiatives and decisions at the earliest on the important and sensitive subject related to reservation of OBCs.

In April 2023, I had requested you for the benefit of 27 per cent reservation for OBCs of Chhattisgarh state by including this subject in the 9th Schedule of the Constitution. I am sure you will agree that it is necessary to provide reservation to the large population of OBCs, who have been deprived of socio-political rights for centuries. This decision is necessary to keep up the spirit of equality and social justice provided by the Constitution, Baghel said in the letter

He mentioned that the bill to implement 32, 13, 27 and 4 per cent reservations for the people of Scheduled Tribes, Scheduled Castes, Other Backward Classes and EWS, respectively, was passed unanimously by the state assembly in December 2022. Unfortunately, that bill is still pending for approval from Raj Bhavan.

Baghel stated that denying the constitutional rights to this major part of the population will inevitably upset them. It is beyond comprehension that despite all the efforts of the state government, people belonging to other backward classes are not being provided the benefit of 27 per cent reservation, he said in the letter.

Congress is already aggressively pushing the issue of OBC reservation and caste censustwo of its poll guaranteesat the national level and even in Madhya Pradesh which also goes to polls by the end of the year.

Congress has also lashed out at the Union government for opposing the Bihar governments caste census in the Supreme Court. Citing the fact that the Union government had changed its affidavit related to census, though its the governments prerogative, chairperson of the Congress social media and digital platforms, Supriya Shrinate on Tuesday said that the demand for caste census is not only made by the opposition parties, but also by those people of this country who have remained exploited, deprived and backward for years. The repeated change in stance in SC on the issue shows the hypocrisy of the Modi government on caste census once again, she said on social media platform X (earlier Twitter).

Shifting of NMDC HQ to Bastar

Meanwhile, Baghel has also demanded in his letter that the headquarters of the National Mineral Development Corporation (NMDC), currently at Hyderabad in Telangana state, be shifted to Jagdalpur of Bastar in Chhattisgarh. The CM said that this is important to provide employment opportunities to the local unemployed persons (in the Maoist-hit tribal area).
Around 1,000 Congress workers marched nearly six kilometre on Monday to present a memorandum to the district collector in central Gujarat city of Nadiad. The memorandum was prepared at the end of an one-week exercise wherein Congress workers reached out to the residents to understand the local issues they have been facing.

A brainchild of Rajya Sabha MP Shaktisinh Gohil, who was appointed Gujarat unit president of the party two months ago, the Jan Adhikar Padyatra will be taken out in 33 districts and eight municipal corporations areas over a period of three months.

Coming ahead of next years crucial Lok Sabha elections, the Padyatra is aimed at reconnecting with the masses after the partys lowest ever tally of 17 seats in assembly elections in December 2022. The party has even failed to get official recognition for the opposition leaders post.

Winning even a single seat in 2024 Lok Sabha elections will be an achievement for the Congress as the BJP had bagged all the 26 seats from Gujarat in the last two elections.

Being the opposition party, it is our duty to raise people's voices, Gohil told THE WEEK. He said the Congress is appealing to all those who have left the party and now have a change of heart to rejoin.

He said they are also appealing to BJP 'page presidents' to join the Congress and give the party a chance. We are telling them that they have been used by the BJP, he said.

'Page presidents' and 'page committee members' are part of a system devised by the BJP in Gujarat wherein party workers are given responsibility for each page of the electoral roll and remain in touch with the electorate of the area.

Before taking over as the state party chief, Gohil along with Congress workers had walked a stretch of over eight kilometres from the Sabarmati Ashram to the partys headquarters in Ahmedabad.

Congress workers will be reaching out to the masses in all the 33 districts and eight municipal corporation areas before the yatra is taken out in the respective areas.

State Congress spokesperson Manish Doshi said it is a unique concept. He said that during the yatras, the party is keeping a desk  Haath se Haath Jodo (Joining Hands)  and the people who like the partys ideology can join the party.

Ahmedabad-based political analyst Vidyut Joshi observed that it is a good beginning (the yatra), but it may not fully revive the party.

According to him, it is necessary to get into the details of what ails the Congress. Joshi said any party needs young blood for it to survive for a long time.

The Congress started facing the dearth of young blood after the Seva Dal became almost defunct in the 1980s. There needs to be indoctrination and the views of a person are formed when he/she is young, Joshi said.
Being appointed as the Indias new charg d affaires at its high commission in Islamabad, Geetika Srivastava will now lead the countrys mission in Pakistan. Since Independence, it is for the first time a woman is tasked with such a role.

Srivastava is currently serving as joint secretary at the headquarters of the Ministry of External Affairs' (MEA) Indo-Pacific division. She is a 2005 batch Indian Foreign Service officer.

She will succeed Suresh Kumar who is likely to return to New Delhi.

The Indian and Pakistani high commissions in Islamabad and Delhi are being headed by their respective charge d'affaires after Pakistan downgraded diplomatic ties following India's decision to withdraw the special status of Jammu and Kashmir in August 2019.

Though woman diplomats have been posted to Pakistan earlier, this is the first time one is getting posted at the highest level. With Islamabad declared a non-family posting for Indian diplomats, the post is considered to be hard. Just for this reason, many, especially woman, are even reluctant to take up the role.

Reportedly, there is a woman diplomat at the First Secretary level in the Indian High Commission. According to sources, Srivastava will take charge shortly.

Meanwhile, Pakistan has posted Saad Ahmad Warraich as the new CDA in New Delhi. Warraich has served in Pakistans Permanent Mission to the UN in New York.

(With PTI inputs)
The one-day session of the Manipur Assembly was adjourned sine die within an hour of commencement after Congress MLAs created a ruckus demanding that the session be extended to five days.



The opposition MLAs led by former chief minister Okram Ibobi Singh said one day was not enough to discuss the prevailing situation in the ethnic strife-torn state.



All the 10 Kuki MLAs were absent from the House.



The proceedings began at 11 am with two-minute silence for those killed in the ethnic violence between Meiteis and Kukis that began on May 3.



Chief Minister N Biren Singh, in his address, said, "With great sorrow, we condole the deaths of those killed in the violence. In times like these, words seem inefficient for those who have lost their loved ones in the strife."



The House resolved that all differences should be addressed through dialogue and peaceful means for communal harmony in the state.



The House also lauded the successful landing of Chandrayaan-3 on Moon and congratulated scientist N Raghu Singh, who is from Manipur and was in ISRO team that led the mission.



Soon after, Congress MLAs started shouting "stop mockery, let's save democracy" from their seats and demanded that a five-day session be held for discussing the situation in the state.



Speaker Th Satyabrata Singh urged the opposition MLAs to sit down but they continued with the ruckus, following which he adjourned the House for 30 minutes.



As the House reassembled, the Congress MLAs continued with their protest, following which the Speaker, while stating that it was not possible to continue with the session amid the ruckus, adjourned the proceedings sine die.



The state government had last month recommended a session by August 21, but later revised it to August 28 on not getting a green light from the Raj Bhavan. Last week, the chief minister's office announced that the assembly will reconvene from August 29.



The previous assembly session was held in March and according to the norms, a session must be held every six months.



The Committee on Tribal Unity (CoTU) and the Indigenous Tribal Leaders Forum (ITLF) had recently denounced the convening of the session saying the present situation is not conducive for Kuki-Zo MLAs to attend it.



In a joint statement on Sunday, both the organisations said considering the complete breakdown of law and order and the failure of the state government in protecting the lives of the common people and officials, convening the session "is devoid of logic and rationality."



On Saturday, former Manipur chief minister and Congress leader Okram Ibobi Singh had said the session is an eyewash and not in public interest.



More than 160 people lost their lives and several hundreds were injured since ethnic clashes broke out in Manipur on May 3.
A high drama prevailed at the Maharashtra secretariat here on Tuesday when a group of protesters descended on the safety net set up on its first floor demanding a hike in compensation for the people affected by a dam project.

Police detained more than 40 persons, an official said.

"Protestors shouting slogans and carrying placards approached the safety net (on the first floor of the main Mantralaya building) in the afternoon. Police personnel and officers present at the spot tried to drag them away," an official said.

The safety nets in the main Mantralaya building were set up as a precautionary measure to prevent any potential suicide attempts.

The agitation was staged at the state secretariat around 3.30 pm by the action committee representing people affected by the Upper Wardha dam project at Morshi in Amravati district, the official said.

The protestors demanded an increase in the compensation for land acquired for the dam and sought government jobs for the project-affected people, he said.

"Mumbai Police detained more than 40 persons for staging the protest and the process for registration of an offence was going on at Marine Drive police station," the official added.
United States former President Donald Trump is set to face trial in March 2024 on charges for trying to overturn his 2020 presidential election defeat.

US Judge Tanya Chutkan on Monday set March 4 for the federal case in Washington. The election fraud case is one of the four criminal prosecutions against Trump.

Trump, who is the leading Republican presidential candidate, is facing trial while he is campaigning before the elections in November next year.

Though Trump's lawyers pressed for trial date in April 2026, it was turned down by Chutkan. His lawyers had sought more time to gather evidence before the trial. His liberty and life is at stake and he deserves an adequate representation, said his lawyer John Lauro.

This is one of the most unique cases from a legal perspective ever brought in the history of the United States. Ever, said Lauro.

Trump will have to make the trial date work, regardless of his schedule, said Chutkan. However, she raised concerns over the derogatory social media posts by him.

Chutkan has warned Trump to stop posting inflammatory statements online about witnesses or others involved in the case.

In connection with the charges over hush money payment to a porn star, Trump is set to stand trial on March 25.

Also, on federal charges in Florida alleging Trump illegally retained classified records after leaving the White House and tried to obstruct justice, he is to stand trial on May 20, 2024.

Meanwhile, a trial date for the fourth criminal case in Georgia has not been set yet.

Trump had said that all four criminal prosecutions against him was politically motivated and made to target him.

Meanwhile, Mark Meadows, one of the 18 co-defendants in Georgia, is pressing to move his trial to federal court where he is likely to get more sympathetic jury. Meadows was Trump's former White House chief of staff.

March 2024 hold significance with regard to the GOP presidential nominating calender. "I want to note here that setting a trial date does not depend and should not depend on the defendant's personal or professional obligations," said Chutkan.

Trump surrendered on Thursday in the Georgia case with his pose for the mug shot trending. Trump was booked on 13 charges, including racketeering, conspiracy charges and soliciting a public official to violate their oath of office. He was later released on a $200,000 bond after about 20 minutes.

The Fulton County Sheriffs Office later released a mug shot of former President Donald Trump, which saw him glaring at the camera. This was also the first time his mug shot was taken, as he did not have to submit to a photograph when making appearances in his three other criminal cases.
An anti-caste discrimination bill has been passed by the California State Assembly that seeks to combat caste discrimination and strengthen protections for marginalised communities across the state.

The bill was passed by the Assembly on Monday. It now heads to Governor Gavin Newsom for his signature to make it into law, making California the first US state to add caste as a protected category in its anti-discrimination laws.

The bill passed by the California Assembly seeks to combat caste discrimination and strengthen protections for marginalised communities across the state. It was first introduced by State Senator Aisha Wahab and was supported by several caste equity civil rights activists and organizations from across the country.

Thank you to all the Assembly members who voted in support of SB 403 today. We are protecting people from a long-standing form of discrimination with SB 403, Wahab said in a tweet.

A coalition of Hindus of North America (CoHNA) described it as a black day in California history.

The legislation will revise California's Unruh Civil Rights Act, Education, and Housing codes by adding caste as a protected category under ancestry. Since its introduction earlier this year, the bill has flown through the different steps in the legislature, achieving a largely bipartisan consensus across multiple labour and civil rights entities.

The Assembly Vote is a win for the ages. After conducting over 700 advocacy meetings across the entire state of California the people have spoken resoundingly for caste equity protections. As a Californian who has endured caste my whole life I know the struggles and adversity caste-oppressed Californians have unjustly faced firsthand, said Thenmozhi Soundararajan, executive director of Equality Labs.

Caste-oppressed people have organised for over twenty years so we could have lives free from violent attacks and discrimination; now, the California Assembly has voted decisively to bring us closer to victory, she said.

As the bill progresses we ask Governor Newsome to sign this bill once it crosses his desk so that California can lead the nation and the world to ensure that our institutions are free from discrimination and ensure opportunity for all, Soundararajan said.

In a statement, CoHNA said the passing of a bill that is NOT facially neutral and written to specifically target Hindu Americans is the latest in a long line of unjust bills, like the Asian Exclusion Act, which were popular at the time of their passing and were used to target minorities of colour.

This bill will be no different and is indeed worse since it ignored the mounting body of evidence about the overreach of CRD in the Cisco lawsuit, the flawed data from a hate group that underpinned the whole effort, the championing of this bill by foreign actors and the rising numbers of Dalit and Bahujan voices speaking against it, it said.

Amar Shergill, California Democratic Chair of the Progressive Caucus said there is broad consensus in California among Democrats and Republicans that discrimination, in any form, is unacceptable.

Pooja Ren, Hindus for Caste Equity said as a dalit Hindu, she wants to make sure that they can make workplaces safe for all workers, as well as all schools for their children.

Future dalit generations in the diaspora must be protected. Pathways must be paved for our children to feel safe from casteist bullying and discrimination from casteist parents. We must have justice when caste discrimination occurs. We are a community that has suffered for centuries, and protection will give us the human rights as residents of California to live a life free from caste discrimination, she said.

Tarina Mand, South Asian Bar Association Civil Rights Taskforce said California has taken a bold step to dismantle caste discrimination in a call for equity and a recognition that deep-seated biases can be passed through a community for generations and across continents.

As our communities process some incredibly disheartening judicial decisions in recent months about the value of our diverse national spirit, the passage of SB-403 today stands out as a watershed moment, he said. Dalit activist Deelip Mhaske said amidst the shifting tides of the world, California's adoption of the Caste Law stands as a groundbreaking testament, echoing far beyond its borders. The resounding influence of the Indian diaspora reverberates through the corridors of power, with four Indians eyeing the presidential throne in 2024, and multinational giants swayed by the decisions of Indian diaspora leaders, said Mhaske, president of the Foundation For Human Horizon.
China has sparked widespread outrage across the globe, after it released the 2023 edition of what Beijing claims is the country's standard map. Aksai Chin and Arunachal Pradesh are among the South and South-East Asian territories marked within Chinese borders in map uploaded by the country's Ministry of Natural Resources on the website of its standard map service.

China has also included Taiwan as part of its official territory as well as the areas in South China Seas marked with the contentious Nine-Dash Line, which is disputed by the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei and Taiwan.

In a tweet, the state-run Global Times stated, This map is compiled based on the drawing method of national boundaries of China and various countries in the world. In a reply, one user said, When your drawing method is based on fantasies.

Next year China's standard map ...congrats  pic.twitter.com/yvorvkbF6v  Raghavendra (@Raghave18561929) August 29, 2023

Many other social media users also took to the X platform to express their outrage. One user responded to the contentious map with a thumbs-down emoji, saying Wrong map, wrong claims while another posted, In your dreams. Yet another user wrote, Why not every country draws random lines at this point...

2050 edition of China's standard map pic.twitter.com/K3qGoW8cHB  sam (@KannanFromPast) August 28, 2023

One of the Indian users tweeted, Arunachal Pradesh will always remain Indian. Release how many maps as you want, while another said, Dont worry....when Xi comes to India he will see the correct map of India !! Yet another wrote, Drawing the new lines on paper will not increase your territories. This is India.

Referring to the 9-dash Line marked in disputed territories in South China Sea, one user wrote, Obviously bullying all of the SE Asian neighbors with that dashed line, while another said, The 9-dash line was declared invalid by international tribunal. Thus, it violates the territorial sovereignty of various SE Asian countries. China hides behind ridiculous rhetoric of being cooperative with @ASEAN.

The map was released ahead of the upcoming G20 summit in New Delhi on September 9 and 10. Congress MP Manish Tewari said the Centre should introspect whether it would be "in accordance with India's self-respect" to host Chinese President Xi Jinping during the summit.

Tewari said the "absurdity and preposterousness of the Chinese claim is evidenced by the history of the Sino-Indian border dispute". He added, "Today, the real issue between India and China is that the Chinese have transgressed along the LAC at multiple points on a theatre level... To sum it up, the Chinese maps are preposterous, they are not in sync with the history of the Sino-India border dispute, China has no claim on Arunachal Pradesh..."

Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut also addressed the issue, saying, "...PM should look into this. He went to the BRICS Summit recently and met the Chinese Premier. Now this map has come out. So he should be asked this question. It breaks our hearts. What Rahul Gandhi said is true that China has transgressed in Ladakh...China is attempting to enter Arunachal Pradesh. If you have courage launch a surgical strike on China..."



The Central government is yet to respond to China's new map.
The Islamabad High Court (IHC) on Tuesday suspended PTI chairman Imran Khan's three-year sentence in the Toshakhana case.

Division bench comprising Chief Justice Aamer Farooq and Justice Tariq Mehmood Jahangiri announced the order while considering Khan's appeal against the sentence.

"The CJ has accepted our request, suspended the sentence and said a detailed decision would be provided later," PTI chairman's aide on legal affairs Naeem Haider Panjotha said on X (formerly Twitter).

Meanwhile, a special court set to hear cases under the Official Secrets Act has directed the Attock jail authorities to keep Khan in "judicial remand" and produce him on Wednesday in connection with the cipher case, the Dawn reported.

The copy of the judgement is yet to be received.

A trial court in Islamabad on August 5 has convicted the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf chief in the Toshakhana case and was sentenced to three years in prison. He was slapped with a fine of one lakh Pakistani rupees as well.

Khan is accused of misusing his term as the Prime Minister to buy and sell gifts in state possession that were received during visits abroad. Khan was arrested after the trial court found him guilty in the Toshakhana corruption case. He had appealed against the conviction.

He had said that the trial judge made the conclusions on the basis of a "predisposed mind". It was also alleged that the petitioner's lawyer was not given the right of presenting arguments.

It was "tainted with bias", stated Khan's plea on the judgment.

Khan was convicted in the case filed by the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) last year after it had disqualified him for not showing the money he received after selling the gifts purchased at a discounted price.
Bhopal, Aug 29 (PTI) Union Minister of State for Finance Bhagwat Krishanrao Karad on Tuesday said that PM SVANidhi, a loan scheme for street vendors and small traders, will help in achieving the target of bringing India into the world's top three economies in the next few years.

He said Madhya Pradesh was on the second spot in implementation of the PM Street Vendor's AtmaNirbhar Nidhi (PM SVANidhi), which was launched in June 2020.

The Union minister was talking to reporters on the sidelines of a zonal conference organised here to review the implementation and progress of the special micro-credit facility for street vendors. Officials of Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Rajasthan participated in the conference.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said India, currently the world's fifth largest economy, will be at No. 3 spot in the next few years, Karad said.

"To achieve this target, we need to speed up money circulation and the PM SVANidhi scheme will play an important role for this," said the junior finance minister.

Under the central scheme, street vendors and small traders are given micro loans in denominations of Rs 10,000, Rs 20,000 and Rs 50,000.

He said this was the fifth zonal conference on PM SVANidhi organised in Bhopal.

Through such conferences, problems of urban bodies, which implement the scheme, and banks, which provide loans, are heard and addressed, Karad said.

The Union minister said eight other welfare schemes are associated with PM SVANidhi, which ensure help to the entire family of beneficiaries.

Karad informed that Uttar Pradesh leads in implementation of the micro-credit scheme with 90 per cent achievement of its targets, while Madhya Pradesh is in the second spot with 88 per cent success rate.

Rajasthan and Kerala have achieved only 40 per cent and 21 per cent, respectively, of their targets, Karad said and added efforts were being made to speed up the implementation of the scheme in low-performing states.

He said the Centre provides a 7 per cent grant on interest on loans sanctioned under PM SVANidhi.

An official who took part in the conference said state governments have to register vendors through their urban bodies and facilitate disbursement of loans from banks to beneficiaries.
BEIJING, Aug. 29 (Xinhua) -- The People's Bank of China, or the central bank, will conduct a central bank bills swap (CBS) operation on Tuesday to improve the liquidity of perpetual bonds.

The three-month CBS, valued at 5 billion yuan (about 695.88 million U.S. dollars), is open to primary dealers for bidding at a fixed rate of 0.1 percent, the central bank said in a statement.

The CBS scheme allows dealers to swap the perpetual bonds they hold for central bank bills. Perpetual bonds are fixed-income securities with no maturity date and are not redeemable but pay a steady stream of interest in perpetuity. 
Kolkata, Aug 29 (PTI) Ride-hailing app SnapE, which operates EV cabs, is planning to more than double its current fleet by the end of FY'24, and venture into smaller cities, a company official said on Tuesday.

The company also plans to induct more women drivers in its workforce, said Mayank Bindal, the managing director of EC Wheels, which operates under the SnapE brand.

"Besides expanding in the greater Kolkata region, which is our base, we plan to venture into smaller cities such as Bhubaneswar, Guwahati, Varanasi, Raipur, Indore, Bhopal, Jaipur and Ahmedabad over the next few years because of the potential of the untapped market," he told PTI in an interview.

"We also want to provide affordable green vehicles to tourists, and are targeting the Varanasi-Ayodhya-Chitrakoot and Puri-Bhubaneswar-Konark-Chilika circuits initially," he said.

The company plans to increase its fleet strength from 400 at present to 1,000 by the end of this financial year, Bindal said.

"We intend to hire more women as drivers to ensure that women passengers are more comfortable in our cabs," he said, adding that eventually women would constitute 30-35 per cent of the workforce.

Currently, the company has only 10-12 women drivers, he said.

"We are also in the process of setting up an institution, in collaboration with private and government stakeholders, for providing training to drivers in basic servicing of the vehicles and behaviour with customers," Bindal said.

The company, which completed one year of operations this August, has managed to earn an average monthly revenue of around Rs 2.5 crore, he said.

"In the next five years, we intend to have around 5,000-7,000 cars across the country, with around 3,500 in Kolkata and the remaining in other smaller cities. With the growth in fleet, we hope to earn a revenue of Rs 35 crore per month," he said.

Bindal said the major challenge the company is facing currently is creating and maintaining physical infrastructure for charging the vehicles.

The company has several hubs in northern and southern parts of Kolkata, where the vehicles are parked, cleaned and charged before going out for rides.

"We own the cars to ensure that the vehicles are in good condition, and the drivers are accountable. Our cars are cleaned every day and the condition is monitored regularly. Maintaining the vehicles is also not difficult as we have a good system in place," he said.

Bindal said that after launching his service with only 15 cars, he operated SnapE cabs on Uber's platform for a couple of months, but soon realised there was no dearth of demand for ride-hailing apps.

"Our biggest USPs are that we do not have surge pricing even during peak hours and that the condition of our vehicles is good, they are clean and the drivers are courteous," he said.

"We currently get around 15,000 requests for rides every day for our 400 cabs. At the Kolkata airport, we get 270-300 rides daily, which is around 10 per cent of the total app cab traffic in the airport," he claimed.
Kolkata, Aug 29 (PTI) With the intervention of Information Technology (IT) in statistical sciences, the future of statistics now is the data science, Director General of National Sample Survey (NSS) Bivas Chaudhuri said on Tuesday.

He said that post the COVID pandemic, IT intervention has altered the role of a statistician.

Speaking at the convocation of the International Statistical Education Centre (ISEC), an associate of the Indian Statistical Institute, Chaudhuri said "The future of statistics now is the data science. Post-pandemic and IT intervention, the role of the statistician has changed.

"The new data tells me unless we become IT savvy and do handshaking with the data scientists, the job of the statistician will be limited", he said.

Chaudhuri, a statistician himself, said that demand for data is ever-increasing.

Policies of the government need data and should serve a particular goal, he added.

"In today's world, data-driven policy is important", Chaudhuri noted.

NSS is under the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI).

ISEC handed over diplomas to students from Mongolia, Myanmar, Tajikistan and Liberia after they completed a ten-month course titled 'Statistical Theory and Applications'.
MUMBAI, India, Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Hexaware Technologies, a leading global provider of IT services and solutions, has announced a 100%+ variable payout for its valued employees, ranging from 100% for employees who met expectations during this appraisal cycle to 120% for high performers who have demonstrated exceptional performance for two years. Despite the turbulent economic climate, Hexaware believes this investment in its workforce demonstrates an unwavering commitment to employee wellbeing and motivation and that is a testament to its core value of putting people first. Hexaware recognizes that a happy and engaged workforce leads to enhanced productivity, creativity, and collaboration.



Hexaware's progressive approach to employee compensation is one of several strategic decisions that have led to the company's remarkable growth trajectory. The recently released Brand Finance Report highlighted Hexaware as one of the IT Services industry's fastest-growing brands in 2023. This recognition, which elevated the company's rating to AA, is attributed to a 66% brand valuation growth over three years, reflecting its robust performance and consistent growth trajectory.

Despite the prevailing economic volatility where companies have put hiring on hold, Hexaware has firmly committed to growth. It plans to bring on board around 6,000 experienced professionals this year. The company's reputation in the market and its people-first policy have attracted top talent, and employee retention has also seen a significant leap, jumping from 68% in 2021 to 73% in 2022.



Hexaware's dedication to fostering an inclusive work environment extends to its digital infrastructure and processes. The company aims to attract the best digital talent globally, regardless of location or preferred work arrangement, by implementing advanced security protocols and cultivating a welcoming company culture.



In the 2022 calendar year, Hexaware experienced a growth of over 25% in CC (constant currency), making it one of the fastest-growing players in the market. Despite anticipated macroeconomic sentiments, Hexaware is optimistic about maintaining this growth pace in CY 23.



The American Business Awards recently recognized Hexaware's growth by honoring it with the Gold Stevie Award for the 'Fastest Growing Tech Company of the Year' in 2023. Additionally, The Economic Times named Hexaware among the Best Organisations for Women in 2023, further reiterating its dedication to inclusivity and diversity.



Hexaware's Chief Operating Officer, Vinod Chandran said, "We know it's our people who make the difference. They bring passion, creativity, and drive to our daily work. Today, we honor their dedication with a 100%+ variable pay. Even in this challenging economic climate, we will do everything we can to show them that they matter as much as their work does. In fact, on the variable payouts for associates with non-KPI variable payouts, our average payout was 103%  which is significantly higher than our peer set. Our determination to go above and beyond in our variable payouts is a testament to our belief that when we support our team, remarkable things happen."



About Hexaware



Hexaware is a global technology and business process services company. Our 27,000 Hexawarians wake up every day with a singular purpose; to create smiles through great people and technology. With over 40 offices in 19 countries, we empower enterprises worldwide to realize digital transformation at scale and speed by partnering with them to build, transform, run, and optimize their technology and business processes.



Learn more about Hexaware at https://www.hexaware.com.



Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/530945/Hexaware.jpg



(Disclaimer: The above press release comes to you under an arrangement with PRNewswire and PTI takes no editorial responsibility for the same.). PTI PWR

PWR
Mumbai, Aug 29 (PTI) West Bengal is expecting to attract investment proposals of more than Rs 3.5 lakh crore at the Bengal Global Business Summit in November this year, state chief minister's Principal Chief Advisor Amit Mitra said on Tuesday.

Addressing the media after an interactive session with industry stakeholders here, Mitra also said that the state's GDP this year is expected to be Rs 17-lakh crore this year.

The 7th edition of the two-day Bengal Global Business Summit (BGBS) is scheduled to commence on November 21 in Kolkata.

As a prelude to the Summit, a roadshow was organised in association with CII to deliberate on the trade and investment opportunities in the state and further strengthen bilateral relations and cooperation.

Last time (2022 Summitt) around Rs 3-3.5 lakh crore investment was offered and the state is looking forward to more of it at this year's Summit, Mitra said.

He said that as much as 50 per cent of the investment from the global business summits in the last five years is already under operation.

According to him, it usually takes 2-3 years for the entire investment proposal to get materialised completely.

The Mamata Banerjee Government is focussed on growth in a structured manner, Mitra said.

West Bengal is the fourth largest economy in the country, as per an RBI report, he said and that the state's GDP is expected to stand at Rs 17-lakh crore this year from close to Rs 16-lakh crore last year.

He said the state is growing at a very fast pace relative to the base, adding that there is a groundswell of manufacturing which is happening in West Bengal.

"All around I see many structures of manufacturing emerging in West Bengal, which are sustainable, long-term and have all the input requirements that it needs," he said.

West Bengal is way up (compared to other states) in terms of infrastructure with surplus water and an intensive road network, among others, coupled with industrial parks, which are growing at a rapid pace, he said.

The automobile sector is one area where the state is looking to attract higher investment as there are other manufacturing which are one or the other way connected to this sector, he said.

He said that one of the major auto companies was looking at a state where they could get land near a port and contacted the West Bengal Government as well.

But we have to see, we cannot make commitments, he added.

As far as electric vehicles are concerned, we have done the biggest bus conversion that to our knowledge in the country, he stated.

To a question on the electric vehicle segment and Tesla's plans to get into India, he said that the global business summit is meant to invite people.

"Now, I cannot say specifically about Tesla," he said.
Colombo, Aug 29 (PTI) Sri Lanka will import 92.1 million eggs from India to counter the fluctuations in its prices and make them affordable to the consumers, the Cabinet spokesman said on Tuesday.

The decision was taken at a Cabinet meeting held here on Monday, Cabinet spokesman and mass media minister Bandula Gunawardena said.

The State Trading Corporation had requested the government to allow the import of eggs from India amid concerns over shortages and market fluctuations.

Gunawardena said the move is a strategic measure to stabilise domestic egg prices and maintain affordability for Sri Lankan consumers.

Quotations have been called from three Indian companies recommended by the Department of Animal Products and Health, he said, adding that the orders are set to cover a three-month period.

Sri Lanka has been relying on eggs from India since March when the island nation faced significant egg shortages due to the forex crisis affecting the import of animal feed. In response to the crisis, a decision was made to import Indian eggs.

In March, Sri Lanka imported two million eggs from India to ensure food security in the crisis-hit island nation.

India's extension of credit lines to Sri Lanka enabled crucial food and fuel imports, thereby aiding the island nation during its economic challenges.
Lucknow, Aug 29 (PTI) Uttar Pradesh under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi has moved towards becoming a developed, emerging economy from a period of BIMARU state under the previous governments, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said on Tuesday.

The chief minister said that the absence of political will in previous governments led to a decline in the state's economy.

"Under the leadership of the Prime Minister, Uttar Pradesh has moved towards becoming developed, emerging from a period of darkness and 'BIMARU' state. Uttar Pradesh will soon become the leading economy of the country," Adityanath said, while addressing the FICCI National Executive meeting at Taj Hotel in Gomti Nagar.

The state has moved up to the second position from the fourth spot in Ease of Doing Business, which shows the government's desire of progress in the last six years, Adityanath said in a statement here.

He said the first requirement for investment in any state is security, which the UP government has understood very well.

"The state remains free from criminal activities, committing acts like kidnapping for ransom is not possible and no goon can threaten or collect money," he said.

Through the establishment of an Anti-Land Mafia Task Force, a land bank has been created for industrial use, freeing 64,000 hectares from encroachments by land mafia, the chief minister said.

There are favourable opportunities for the industry as Uttar Pradesh is a revenue-surplus state, he said.

The western region had its own infrastructure, but eastern UP and Bundelkhand were deprived of all this, he said, adding that the scenario has changed today.

In 2016, the Centre had to supply water through tankers in Bundelkhand, whereas water reaches every house from the tap now, he said.

According to Adityanath, the Global Investors Summit held this year has attracted investment proposals of over Rs 36 lakh crore, which is a symbol of faith towards the state.

"The once-declining MSME sector has undergone remarkable progress in the present market. The One District One Product initiative, initially introduced within the state, has now been adopted as a nationwide plan by the Government of India. This scheme has established the state as a manufacturing hub. Notably, the export of the state has reached about Rs 2 lakh crore," he said.

The chief minister appealed to people of the industry associated with FICCI to collectively play their part in the development of the state, the statement said.
Mumbai, Aug 29 (PTI) Actors Sunny Singh and Kriti Kharbanda have been roped in to lead the cast of filmmaker Abir Sengupta's next film "Risky Romeo".

According to the makers, "Risky Romeo" is a neo-noir comic tragedy about "modern day existential crisis" and will present the two actors in never-seen-before avatars.

Singh, known for movies such as "Sonu Ke Titu Ki Sweety" and "Adipurush", said his role in the upcoming film is thrilling and challenging at the same time.

I have never ever played a character even close to this before. It is thrilling and challenging at the same time. This film needs me to prepare hard and completely transform myself into the character that Abir has written.

"His vision with this film and for my character is very unusual and that is something that I am really looking forward to. This will be the first time that I will have Kriti as my co-star and I am looking forward to the riot on set," the actor said in a statement.

Kharbanda described "Risky Romeo" as a special movie and said she is looking forward to start working on it.

"Ive always given priority to the script and character, and I look forward to the challenge Abir has set for me. This script of 'Risky Romeo' is special for more reasons than one and I cant wait for the world to see it unfold," the "Housefull 4" actor added.

Sengupta. who directed the 2020 comedy drama "Indoo ki Jawani", said "Risky Romeo" is filled with dark humour and "outlandish characters".

"After toiling with multiple stories and ideas for almost 3 years, 'Risky Romeo' was something that had my heart and soul and I knew that I had to make this film," the director said .

"Risky Romeo" is produced by Sengupta, along with Anushree Mehta under their banner Jaadugar Films, in association with Priyanka Mehrotra and Rameshchandra Yadav of PR Motion Pictures.
New York, Aug 29 (PTI) A 46-year-old Indian-origin dentist in the US has pleaded guilty to stealing USD 500,000 in COVID-19 relief money for two years and using it for improper personal expenditures such as investments, an official statement said.

Ranjan Rajbanshi, who ran a dental practice in California, received over USD 850,000 in COVID-19 relief money from April 2020 through February 2022 from the Small Business Administration (SBA) and the US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) for specified business purposes such as facility costs, payroll, and protective equipment for him and his staff.

On Monday, Rajbanshi pleaded guilty to using USD 500,000 of the relief money for improper personal expenditures such as investments, the Department of Justice said in a press release.

He agreed to pay that money back to the government before his sentencing.

The case came to light after the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the SBA Office of Inspector General, and HHS Office of Inspector General conducted an investigation, the press release said.

Rajbanshi faces a maximum statutory penalty of 10 years in prison and fine of USD 250,000. He is scheduled to be sentenced by a US District Judge on December 4.

Set up in 2021, the COVID-19 Fraud Enforcement Task Force bolsters efforts to investigate and prosecute the most culpable domestic and international criminal actors.

It was set up to enhance efforts to combat and prevent pandemic-related fraud and assists agencies tasked with administering relief programmes to prevent the same.
London/Lahore, Aug 29 (PTI) The cause of death of a 10-year-old Pakistani-origin girl in Surrey under mysterious circumstances has not been established yet but was likely to be "unnatural", an inquest heard on Tuesday, days after a search for her family was launched in Pakistan after they fled the UK, a media report said.

The body of Sara Sharif, daughter of Olga Sharif and 31-year-old Malik Urfan Sharif, was found alone in a Woking council house in Surrey on August 10, a day after her relatives flew to Pakistan.

The discovery of the minors body prompted a murder investigation, with the police launching an international hunt for Sara's father, Urfan Sharif, his partner, Beinash Batool and his brother Faisal Malik, in connection with the probe.

On Tuesday, an inquest at Surrey Coroner's Court heard that the precise cause of Sara's death was "not yet ascertained" but was likely to be "unnatural", the BBC reported.

The court heard that at a post-mortem examination, the pathologist was unable to ascertain the precise cause of death but said it was likely to be unnatural.

At the opening of the inquest proceeding, Coroner Simon Wickens adjourned the hearing for six months while police investigated the matter.

Asserting that he would not normally adjourn proceedings for such a long period, Wickens said he was doing so because of the complexity of the police investigation and the international element. The inquest was suspended until February 29, 2024.

The coroner confirmed that Sara was born in Slough in January 2013 and died in her home in Woking.

According to the report, Sara was identified by comparing her DNA with that of her mother, Olga. It added that her death was verified in the early hours of August 10, but that was not necessarily the time of death.

Nobody from Sara's family was present at the inquest opening, the report said.

The London police were told that the suspects had spent thousands of pounds on one-way air tickets to escape to Pakistan, following which the Interpol alerted the Pakistani police authorities to help trace the three suspects.

Rawalpindi Regional Police Officer Syed Khurram Ali Shah told the Dawn newspaper that the police teams were on hot pursuit of the suspects and trying hard to trace the possible hideouts of the suspected family.

He said the police obtained the video footage of the immigration counter of Islamabad airport and found Sharif, his wife and children arriving there on August 9.

Police teams in Pakistan's Jhelum city in the Punjab province have carried out frequent raids at all possible hideouts, including in Sharifs hometown, Dena in Jhelum; in the hometown of Saras mother and in Sialkot, where close relatives of the suspects live.

Authorities picked up the prime suspect's maternal uncle and brother for questioning, but they were unsure about Sharifs location and his other family members.

Police said the family remained elusive, with Sharif taking extra precautions to avoid detection. Officials said the suspected family might have gone underground somewhere in some other province.

Meanwhile, Sharifs father has appealed to his son to come forward and speak to the police.

Speaking to The Sunday Times, Muhammad Sharif, 68, urged his son to come forward. We want them to present themselves, he said. We want to resolve the matter as the privacy of our house is affected due to frequent police raids.

He said his son had not informed him of Saras death when he briefly visited them in Jhelum after they arrived in Islamabad.
Islamabad, Aug 29 (PTI) Pakistan's former prime minister Shehbaz Sharif on Tuesday slammed Supreme Court Chief Justice Umar Ata Bandial for "favouring" Imran Khan, saying his messages to the lower courts led to the suspension of the sentence of the former premier and called the verdict a "dark chapter" in the country's history.

The Islamabad High Court (IHC) on Tuesday suspended Khan's three-year sentence in the Toshakhana corruption case and ordered his release from jail, in a major relief to the former Pakistan prime minister. The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) chief was sentenced on charges of unlawfully selling state gifts acquired by him and his family during his 2018-2022 tenure.

A division bench comprising IHC Chief Justice Aamir Farooq and Justice Tariq Mehmood Jahangiri announced the much-anticipated verdict which was reserved on Monday. Separately, a three-member Supreme Court bench led by Chief Justice Bandial and comprising Justice Mazahar Ali Akbar Naqvi and Justice Jamal Khan Mandokhail is also set to resume hearing petitions against the Toshakhana case.

Taking to microblogging site X, formerly Twitter, Sharif said that the IHC had been influenced by the Supreme Court's leniency toward the PTI chief.

Taking an indirect jibe at Khan, Sharif said, "The 'favourite's' sentence has been suspended, not terminated."

"Chief Justice's message of "Good to see you" and "Wishing you good luck" reached Islamabad High Court. If everyone knows what the decision will be before the decision comes, it should be a moment of concern for the justice system," the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) President said, slamming the court for suspending Khan's sentence.

The former premier further said that when a "clear message" was received from the higher judiciary, the subordinate court would follow suit.

On Wednesday, the apex court, after hearing various petitions against the Toshakhana case, observed that there were shortcomings in the judgment of the sessions court.

The panel observed that the verdict was given in haste and without giving the right of defence to the accused. Prima facie, there are shortcomings in the trial court verdict, the chief justice said.

The Supreme Court had also stated it would wait for the IHC hearing before giving its judgment. It resumed the hearing Thursday but adjourned it without fixing any date after it was told that the IHC was holding a hearing.

Asking why lenience was not extended to his brother and former prime minister Nawaz Sharif, Shehbaz Sharif said, "A monitoring judge was appointed to ensure Nawaz Sharif's punishment, [and now] the chief justice himself [has become] a monitoring judge to save the 'favourite'."

"This role of the justice system will be written as the dark chapter of history. Scales tilted to one side, and a justice system that undermines justice are not acceptable," he said, adding that the law was powerless before those who "sold the watches".

According to the details of an official inquiry, Khan allegedly earned Rs 36 million by illegally selling three watches gifted to him by foreign dignitaries to a local watch dealer during his tenure as prime minister.

"If thieves and state terrorists are facilitated, where will the common man get justice in the country?" Sharif asked.

Alleging undue leniency by the country's courts to Khan, Sharif said, "Be it May 9, be it an attack on the judicial complex, be it raining petrol bombs on the police, everything is forgiven."

Pakistan saw massive nationwide anti-government protests following the arrest of Khan by paramilitary Rangers in a corruption case on May 9. Khan was later released on bail.

Dozens of military installations and government buildings, including the Corps Commander's House in Lahore and the military headquarters in Rawalpindi, were damaged or torched during the riots. Over 100 vehicles of police and other security agencies were set on fire.

Following the violent protests, law enforcement agencies arrested over 10,000 PTI workers across Pakistan, 4,000 of them from Punjab province only.

The Toshakhana case was filed by ruling party lawmakers in 2022 in the ECP, alleging that Khan concealed the proceeds from the sale of state gifts.

The ECP first disqualified Khan and then filed a case of criminal proceedings in a sessions court which convicted him, and subsequently, Khan was sent to jail.

Khan is currently in Attock Jail following his arrest from his Lahore home.

The case alleges that Khan had deliberately concealed details of the gifts he retained from the Toshakhana - a repository where presents handed to government officials from foreign officials are kept - during his time as the prime minister from 2018 to 2022 and proceeds from their reported sales.

As per Toshakhana rules, gifts/presents and other such materials received by persons to whom these rules apply shall be reported to the Cabinet Division.

According to reports, Khan received 58 gifts worth more than Rs 140 million from world leaders during his three-and-a-half-year stint and retained all of them either by paying a negligible amount or even without any payment.
CHANGCHUN, Aug. 29 (Xinhua) -- A major expo in northeast China's Jilin Province has attracted an array of foreign enterprises keen to tap business opportunities there.

Jilin was once largely overlooked by foreign investors due to its history as an old industrial base and part of China's "Rust Belt." However, the province has now moved into a variety of emerging industries, including new energy and new materials, after consolidating traditional sectors like automobiles and agriculture.

Located at the heart of the Northeast Asian economic circle, Jilin Province has been steadily advancing its high-level opening-up in recent years.

According to data from the Jilin provincial department of commerce, the province's exports reached 28.14 billion yuan (about 3.9 billion U.S. dollars) in the first half of this year, a year-on-year growth of 25.3 percent, 21.6 percentage points higher than the national average. Exports to countries along the Belt and Road increased by 78.2 percent.

The transformation is turning Jilin into a popular destination for foreign enterprises seeking investment and growth in the Northeast Asia region.

At the 14th China-Northeast Asia Expo, which closed on Sunday in the provincial capital Changchun, over 1,000 domestic and international companies, including AstraZeneca and the RCEP Alliance from the Republic of Korea (ROK), set up exhibition booths, attracting a steady stream of business visitors.

Representatives from governments, enterprises and academia across Northeast Asian countries gathered to explore cooperation opportunities in more than 30 themed forums and business negotiations.

"Previously, I had only participated in small-scale B2B exhibitions. But through the China-Northeast Asia Expo, I have come to realize the vast market and cooperation potential in Northeast China," said Egor Andreev, Asia-Pacific project director of Russia's search engine operator Yandex, during the Northeast Asia Regional Economic Cooperation Meeting for Young Entrepreneurs at the expo.

Andreev said that Yandex provides investment consulting services for Chinese companies interested in investing in Russia and introduces their products to the Russian market.

He believes that an increasing number of Chinese businesses, particularly in the mechanical and electronics sectors, are proactively seeking cooperation to expand into overseas markets. "We hope to seek more cooperation with enterprises in the automobile sector at the expo, as Changchun is known as the cradle of China's automobile industry," he added.

Like Andreev, many representatives of foreign enterprises participating in the expo have been impressed by Jilin's new vitality. They have praised the government's sincerity, the vast consumer market and the development momentum of emerging industries.

"We are seeking new opportunities with old friends," said Lee Yoon-woo, chairman of Dai Han Pharm. Co., Ltd., a "time-honored brand" in ROK's medical device industry.

During the expo, Lee participated in activities like the Korean Business Day, yielding many pleasant surprises. "In the past, we focused more on the relatively developed coastal regions of China. Through this promotion, I learned about platforms like the China-ROK (Changchun) International Cooperation Demonstration Zone in the Northeast region, a national-level cooperation platform between China and the ROK," said Lee.

"I look forward to establishing more mutually beneficial collaborations with local governments and enterprises in the upcoming events," he added. 
Islamabad, Aug 29 (PTI) A Pakistani court on Tuesday granted pre-arrest bail to Bushra Bibi, wife of jailed former prime minister Imran Khan, till September 12 in multiple graft cases, it emerged on Tuesday.

Bushra Bibi, 49, appeared before the accountability court in Islamabad along with her lawyers Latif Khosa and Intizar Hussain Panjutha.

The court approved her bail plea against a surety bond of Rs 500,000, the Express Tribune newspaper reported.

Bushra Bibi is named in multiple graft cases, including the Toshakhana and Al-Qadir University Trust cases.

The development came hours after the Islamabad High Court suspended Khan's three-year prison term in the Toshakhana corruption case.

The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) chief was arrested earlier this month in the Toshakhana case and was sentenced to three years in prison by a district court. He is currently lodged in Attock jail in Punjab province.

He is due to appear on Wednesday before a special court constituted to hear cases pertaining to the Official Secrets Act (Amendment) 2023 in connection with the cipher (confidential diplomatic communication) case.
Dhaka, Aug 29 (PTI) Bangladesh on Tuesday acknowledged Indias continued support in training its armed forces, as the military services of the two countries held their third Tri-Service Staff Talks (TSST) here.

The TSST was co-chaired by Bangladesh Armed Forced Division's operations and planning directorate chief Brigadier General Hussain Muhammad Mashiur Rahman and Air Vice Marshal Ashish Vohra of India.

The continued Indian support for training the armed forces of Bangladesh is very clear, Bangladeshs defence ministry said in a statement after the TSST.

The statement said many Bangladesh Army, Navy and Air Force personnel are trained in different Indian institutions and Bangladesh, as well, hosts training for Indias armed forces personnel every year while both the armed forces work together at different levels in UN peacekeeping missions.

In recent years (Bangladeshs) military and security-related links with India witnessed a notable progress, reaching the bilateral cooperation and friendship to a new height, it said.

The third TSST was held two days after the two countries held their fifth defence dialogue in Bangladesh's capital.

Dhaka hosted the first TSST in 2021 while the second one was held in India in 2022. Officials familiar with the TSST said the dialogue mainly focused on military cooperation, training and bilateral defence issues.

According to the statement after the talks Vohra called on Bangladesh Armed Forces Divisions Principal Staff Office Lieutenant General Waker-Uz-Zaman, who on August 27 led Dhaka in the fifth defence dialogue when the Indian side was led by Defence Secretary Giridhar Aramane.

It said relations between the military, Navy and Air Forces of the two countries were very close and the foundation of the bond was created during Bangladeshs 1971 Liberation War, crucially backed by India.
Seoul, Aug 29 (AP) North Korean leader Kim Jong Un called for his military to be constantly ready for combat to thwart plots to invade his country, as he accused the US of conducting "more frantic" naval drills with its allies near North Korea, state media reported Tuesday.

The US and South Korean militaries are holding joint summer exercises that North Korea views as an invasion rehearsal. The allies have insisted the drills are defensive in nature.

Kim said in a speech marking the country's Navy Day that falls on Monday that the waters off the Korean Peninsula have been made unstable "with the danger of a nuclear war" because of US-led hostilities, according to the official Korean Central News Agency.

He cited a recent US-South Korean-Japanese summit, the deployment of US nuclear strategic assets and the US drills with its allies.

"The prevailing situation requires our navy to put all its efforts into rounding off the war readiness to maintain the constant combat alertness and get prepared to break the enemy's will for war in contingency," Kim said.

The US and South Korean militaries began the 11-day joint drills on August 21. The annual Ulchi Freedom Shield training is a computer-simulated command post exercise. But they included field exercises this year as well.

North Korea typically responds to US-South Korean military drills with its own missile tests. Its most recent known weapons test was its failed second launch of a spy satellite last Thursday. The day the drills began, KCNA said Kim had observed the test-firings of strategic cruise missiles.

Since the beginning of 2022, North Korea has carried out more than 100 weapons tests, many of them involving nuclear-capable missiles designed to strike the US and its allies South Korea and Japan. Many experts say North Korea ultimately wants to use its boosted military capabilities to wrest greater concessions from the US.

The North's testing spree has forced the US and South Korea to expand their drills, resume trilateral training involving Japan and enhance "regular visibility" of US strategic assets to the Korean Peninsula. In July, the United States deployed a nuclear-armed submarine to South Korea for the first time in four decades.

Earlier this month, the leaders of the US, South Korea and Japan held their first-ever stand-alone trilateral summit at Camp David. During the meeting, they announced they intend to put into operation by year's end the sharing of real-time missile warning data on North Korea and hold annual trilateral exercises.

Kim has been pushing hard to expand his nuclear arsenal and introduce a slew of sophisticated weapons systems.

During his Navy Day speech, Kim said that military units of each service would be given new weaponry in line with the government's decision to expand the operation of tactical nuclear weapons. He said the navy would become "a component of the state nuclear deterrence carrying out the strategic duty."

This suggests North Korea would deploy new nuclear-capable missiles to his navy and other military services. (AP) CK
Mumbai, Aug 29 (PTI) A sessions court here on Tuesday refused anticipatory bail to former Mumbai mayor Kishori Pednekar in a case pertaining to alleged corruption in the purchase of body bags meant for COVID-19 victims.

Fearing arrest in the case, the Shiv Sena (UBT) leader earlier this month moved an anticipatory bail application before the court.



Additional sessions judge S B Joshi on Tuesday refused anticipatory bail to Pednekar and two other accused in the case.

The city police's Economic Offences Wing (EOW) had registered a case against Pednekar and two senior officials of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) under various Indian Penal Code sections, including 420 (cheating) and 120 (B) (criminal conspiracy).

The case is linked to COVID-19 centres "scam" allegedly involving misappropriation of funds in management of health facilities and financial irregularities in purchases of body bags for deceased coronavirus patients, masks and other items by the BMC during the pandemic.

It is based on a complaint filed with the EOW by BJP leader Kirit Somaiya last month.

Pednekar held the position of mayor from November 2019 to March 2022.

In her pre-arrest bail plea, filed through advocate Rahul Arote, the former mayor claimed she has been falsely implicated in the case.

Pednekar claimed the complaint against her is tainted with mala fides, politically motivated, and made with an ulterior motive.



Her plea claimed that Somaiya, the former Lok Sabha MP from Mumbai, is a habitual complainant who has a history of targeting politicians who do not owe allegiance to his party.
Mumbai, Aug 29 (PTI) Following are the top stories from the Western Region at 1700 HRS.











BOM11 MH-COURT-COVID SCAM-EX-MAYOR

* Graft in COVID-19 body bags buy: Court denies pre-arrest bail to ex-Mumbai mayor Pednekar





Mumbai: A sessions court here on Tuesday refused anticipatory bail to former Mumbai mayor Kishori Pednekar in a case pertaining to alleged corruption in the purchase of body bags meant for COVID-19 victims.













BOM10 CG-CM-PM-CENSUS

Baghel urges PM to get Census done, says bill giving 27 pc quota to OBCs pending with guv







Raipur: Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel has urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to get the Census conducted while setting a separate code for the Other Backward Classes (OBCs), an official said on Tuesday.





BOM6 MP-NAXAL-ARREST

Madhya Pradesh ATS arrests Chhattisgarh man for helping Naxalites



Bhopal: The Madhya Pradesh Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) has arrested a man belonging to Chhattisgarh on charges of helping Naxalites, an official said on Tuesday.













BOM8 MH-WOMAN-BEATEN

Maharashtra: Backward community woman beaten up after she asks man to return Rs 2,000



Mumbai: A woman belonging to a backward community in Maharashtra's Satara district was beaten up allegedly by four persons after she asked one of them to return Rs 2,000 which she had given him for cattle fodder, police said on Tuesday.









BOM9 MH-AADITYA-BMC HOSPITALS

Aaditya targets Maharashtra CM and BMC, says civic hospitals left to fend for themselves



Mumbai: Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aaditya Thackeray on Tuesday alleged civic hospitals in Mumbai are in a shambles and running out of basic medicines as he targeted the city municipal corporation and Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde.









BOM7 MH-LEOPARD-CARCASSES

Maharashtra: Female leopard, two cubs die of electrocution, 4 held



Gondia: A female leopard and two cubs died after they came in contact with live wires laid to poach wild boars in Maharashtras Gondia district, an official said on Tuesday. Four persons have been arrested in connection with the death of the big cats.













BOM3 MH-TRIBUNAL-COMPENSATION

Mumbai: Tribunal awards Rs 1.36 cr compensation to kin of man killed in road accident



Mumbai: The Motor Accident Claims Tribunal (MACT) here has awarded a compensation of more than Rs 1.36 crore to the family of a motorcycle rider killed in a road accident in neighbouring Thane district of Maharashtra in 2018.









BOM5 MH-WOMAN-BULLET-AIRPORT

Zimbabwean student held after bullet is found in her bag at Mumbai airport



Mumbai: A 20-year-old Zimbabwean woman, who has enrolled herself in a college in India, was arrested after a bullet was found in her bag at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport here, an official said on Tuesday. ***
Bhopal, Aug 29 (PTI) The Madhya Pradesh Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) has arrested a man belonging to Chhattisgarh on charges of helping Naxalites, an official said on Tuesday.

During interrogation, the accused, Dhan Singh Pungati, told the police that he was associated with Naxalites for the past 25-30 years and was helping them with food and cash, besides conveying their messages from one place to other and carrying out works instructed by them, a press release from the MP Police headquarters said.

The ATS arrested Pungati, a resident of Kanker (Chhattisgarh) from Kalpi village in MP on August 25 when he was going to Mandla from Jabalpur, the release said.

Pungati was nabbed following information received during the interrogation of Naxal leader Ashok Reddy and Kumari Potai aka Remati, who were arrested on August 21, the police said.

Pungati told the police that he got acquainted with Reddy through another Naxalite named Vijay.

On the instructions of Vijay, Pungati had arranged a vehicle for Reddy and made other arrangements, the release said.

On August 21, Naxalite Ashok Reddy, who was accused in more than 60 criminal cases and wanted by police in four states, was arrested by the MP ATS from Jabalpur, officials earlier said.

He was carrying a collective reward of Rs 82 lakh in Telangana, Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh, they said.

More than 60 criminal cases, including of murder, attempt to murder, dacoity, rioting, attack on police, abduction, arson and cases under the Explosives Act, Arms Act and Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) have been registered against Reddy in various states, they added.
Kolkata, Aug 29 (PTI) Removal of debris continued at the site of firecracker unit explosion in West Bengals North 24 Parganas district even on Tuesday, two days after the blast that killed nine people including a juvenile, while the police are searching for four others linked to the factory.

Earthmoving machines are used to remove the piled-up debris of the collapsed building housing the illegal factory and other houses in its surrounding areas at Mochpole village in Duttapukur area.

Over 50 houses were damaged in the village in the explosion that took place on Sunday morning in a residential area.

While one person, the business partner of the owner of the firecracker factory, was arrested on Monday, a team from Barasat Police District conducted search operations in neighbouring districts of Nadia and Murshidabad to look for others linked to the illegal firecracker unit, a senior police officer said.

"Other than the man arrested in this case, there are several more involved in the entire illegal business. We have zeroed in on four more people from the locality who are at the moment absconding," he told PTI.

The police officer said they wanted to ascertain how the explosive materials were brought to the village dodging police surveillance.

Chemicals and bags of powder have been found inside a godown near the spot, and the police suspect that they are Ammonium Nitrate and Potassium Chlorate. The materials have been sent for chemical testing.

"We are also looking for the suppliers (of those materials) and how such a huge number of chemicals and explosive materials were brought into the area. There are several grey areas, he said.

In the backdrop of the blast in Duttapukur, police personnel of neighbouring Barrackpore Police Commissionerate on Tuesday conducted search operations at closed firecracker factories situated there.

Meanwhile, National Commission for Protection of Child Rights Chairperson Priyank Kanoongo alleged that bomb manufacturing under the garb of making firecrackers has become a "cottage industry".

"We have received reports of children dying in a blast at an illegal firecrackers unit in West Bengal's North 24 Parganas district. This is not the first time that we have witnessed illegal firecracking units operational in Bengal in the past. Bomb manufacturing has become a cottage industry in Bengal," Kanoongo told PTI.

Sunday's blast at Duttapukur is the third in the state since this May, after similar explosions at illegal firecracker factories in Purba Medinipur district's Egra and another in Maheshtala in South 24 Parganas district. Twelve deaths were reported in Egra while three in the Maheshtala blast.
Patna, Aug 29 (PTI) RJD president Lalu Prasad on Tuesday took recourse to trademark irreverence while asserting his resolve to fight the BJP, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

"Hum log Narendra Modi ka nareti pakde hue hain......nareti par chadhne jaa rahe hain (we are catching Narendra Modi by his throat, we are going to tighten our hold)", the ailing septuagenarian told reporters at the airport here, using a Bihari slang.

Accompanied by younger son and Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Tejashwi Yadav, the RJD supremo spoke before boarding his flight to Mumbai where he is likely to undergo medical checkups besides attending the meeting of INDIA, scheduled on Thursday and Friday.

Yadav took potshots at the Centre for its stand before the Supreme Court on the caste survey being conducted by the state government.

"We learn that so confused is the Centre that it withdrew its affidavit and filed a new one, saying almost the same thing", alleged the young RJD leader.

"We wanted the headcount to be a part of the census. But that was something only the Centre was empowered to get done. In view of the Centre's reluctance, we were left with no choice but to get a survey done on our own", said Yadav.

Meanwhile, state BJP president Samrat Choudhary bristled at Lalu Prasads acerbic remark about the PM.

"Lalu Prasad should look at his own plight. He has joined hands with Chief Minister Nitish Kumar who has been behind all his legal woes. He is falling at the feet of the one (Rahul Gandhi) who tore up the ordinance which could have saved him from disqualification", said Choudhary.
(This story has not been edited by THE WEEK and is auto-generated from PTI)
Medininagar (Jharkhand), Aug 29 (PTI) At least three people were killed and nine others seriously injured after a car ploughed into a group of people returning home from a cultural programme in Jharkhand's Palamu district, police said on Tuesday.

The incident took place in Baraon village in Chainpur police station area, around 175 km from state capital Ranchi, on Monday midnight, a police officer said.

They were returning to their homes after attending a cultural programme organised in the village on the occasion of the last Monday of the holy month of Shravan, he said.

Additional Superintendent of Police Rishav Garg said, "Three people, including a woman, have died in the incident and six other are seriously injured. They are being treated at Medinirai Medical College and Hospital. The driver has fled with the car after the incident and a manhunt has been launched to nab him."

The deceased were identified as Udal Chaurasia (34), Rohit Chaurasia (45) and Madhu Mehta (30), he added.
XI'AN, Aug. 29 (Xinhua) -- The foreign direct investment (FDI) in actual use surged by 26.4 percent year on year to 880 million U.S. dollars in the first seven months of this year in northwest China's Shaanxi Province, authorities said Tuesday.

The FDI in the tertiary industry rose 39.13 percent year on year to 537 million U.S. dollars during the period, according to the provincial commerce department.

The leasing and business services sectors contributed 197 million U.S. dollars, while the wholesale and retail sales sectors accounted for 132 million U.S. dollars of the FDI.

A total of 215 foreign-funded companies were registered during the period, up 35.22 percent year on year. Among them, 180 companies were in the tertiary industry, a year-on-year increase of 33.33 percent.

Singapore, Britain, France and the Republic of Korea were among the major sources of the province's FDI. 
Shillong, Aug 29 (PTI) Even after 45 days into the new academic session, at least 22 of the 75 colleges affiliated to the North Eastern Hill University in Meghalaya are yet to shift to the 4-year undergraduate course with the teachers' union actively protesting the university's push for the course, officials said on Tuesday.

Meghalaya Teachers' College Association (MCTA) general secretary Dr Airpeace W Rani informed that 22 colleges affiliated to the university are boycotting the first semester classes and not undertaking any assignments under the new policy.

The association has petitioned vice-chancellor Prof PS Shukla to withdraw the July 12 notification mandating the implementation of NEP 2020 across all affiliated colleges.

"We served the representation on July 21 and since he remained silent, we started the ongoing non-cooperation movement from August 1," Rani said.

According to the MCTA leader, the way forward to end this stalemate is for the VC to withdraw this notification and go back to the old 6 semester course.

"We are on agitation for nearly a month. We request the VC to withdraw this notification and end the stalemate," Rani said.

The MCTA said the July 12 notification had claimed that the decision to implement NEP had been taken as per decision of the 110th Academic Council of NEHU and approved by the Executive Council.

Rani, however, said the proceedings of the Academic Council did not mention anything on the implementation of the NEP 2020.

Meanwhile, NEHU VC has commended the resolution by the rest of the affiliated colleges in swiftly adopting the Four-Year Undergraduate Programme (FYUP) as envisioned in the National Education Policy 2020 (NEP 2020).

"As the 2023-24 academic session commenced, NEHU and its affiliated colleges embarked on this transformative educational journey to enrich the higher education landscape in Meghalaya," he said.

The vice-chancellor appealed to the agitating college teachers union to engage in constructive dialogue to resolve any concerns and invited the MCTA for an open discussion to achieve an amicable resolution.

He emphasised the adoption of the FYUP scheme is a significant stride towards holistic education and is confident that this transformative step will pave the way for a brighter and more enriching academic journey for the students.
Srinagar, Aug 29 (PTI) National Conference leader Omar Abdullah Tuesday said the allegations of harassment and irregularities levelled by a Dalit IAS officer against Jammu and Kashmir Chief Secretary A K Mehta were serious enough to warrant an investigation.

However, such an investigation will never happen and the media has also completely ignored the story, the former chief minister claimed.

"The allegations are serious enough to warrant an impartial investigation but we know that will never happen. Sadly the news media has completely ignored this story. They are being kept too busy chasing Ms World & other fluff stories. The lure of advertising rupees & the fear of summons to police stations have effectively silenced what was once a vibrant free(ish?) press in J&K," Abdullah posted on X.

The National Conference vice president was referring to a report in a national daily that IAS officer Ashok Parmar had filed a complaint to the chairman National Commission for Scheduled Castes (NCSC).

The 1992-batch AGMUT cadre officer has alleged in the complaint he was frequently transferred for being from a scheduled caste and for highlighting "bunglings" in the implementation of Jal Jeevan Mission of Jal Shakti Department in J&K.
New Delhi, Aug 29 (PTI) The Delhi BJP on Tuesday accused the Arvind Kejriwal government of taking credit for G20 preparations, majority of which, it claimed, was being done by the central government.

No immediate reaction was available from the AAP government over BJP's charge.

It is "shameful" for the ministers of the Kejriwal government to take credit for the G20 preparations, Delhi BJP president Virendra Sachdeva said in a press conference.

"If the Kejriwal government has to take credit, they should then take credit for food poisoning of children who got sick eating mid-day meals and corruption of his party councillor's husband," Sachdeva hit out at the AAP government.

The central government has so far spent Rs 4,064 crore for G20, while the Kejriwal government has spent only Rs 51 crore, Sachdeva claimed.

NDMC, ITPO, DDA, Indian Airforce, Delhi International Airport Limited, and Delhi Police  all centrally governed and under the monitoring of Lieutenant Governor of Delhi for the work  are the bodies that are looking after the beautification work in Delhi.

The Delhi Police is spending Rs 340 crore on security and DDA Rs 18 crore on beautification, Sachdeva claimed. NDMC has made an expenditure of Rs 60 crore, he added.

PWD and MCD, both under the Delhi government, have spent Rs 45 crore and Rs 6 crore, he claimed.

Leader of Opposition in Delhi Assembly Ramveer Singh Bidhuri claimed the Union Transport Ministry had put Rs 700 crore at the disposal of the Kejriwal government six months ago, out of which it had spent only Rs 45 crore.

Bidhuri also invited Kejriwal for a public debate on who is doing how much on the beautification of the city, alleging it was necessary since the CM doesn't allow the opposition to speak in the assembly house.
Jaipur, Aug 28 (PTI) Congress leader Rameshwar Dudi, who was hospitalised here after suffering a brain haemorrhage, was on Tuesday shifted to a hospital in Gurugram by an air ambulance.

Dudi, the chairman of the Rajasthan State Agro Industries Development Board, was admitted to the Sawai Man Singh (SMS) government hospital on Sunday.

A surgery was performed by a team of doctors to remove the clot in his brain but his condition remained critical.

The decision to shift him to Medanta Hospital was taken on Monday night after Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot visited the government facility here and held a discussion with the doctors.

The Congress leader was on ventilator support in the neurosurgery ICU of SMS Hospital. He was taken to Jaipur airport in an ambulance through a green corridor.

Dudi (60) served as Leader of the Opposition in the state assembly from 2013 to 2018.
New Delhi, Aug 29 (PTI) The city government has directed shops, businesses and commercial establishments in the New Delhi district to grant paid holiday to their employees and workers during the G20 summit.

The Delhi government had issued a notification declaring public holiday in the national capital on September 8-10. The G20 Leaders' Summit will be held at the newly built convention centre at Pragati Maidan in New Delhi district of the national capital.

Last week, the government had announced the closure of banks, financial institutions and commercial establishments in the district.

"Accordingly, all employers of shops, commercial and business establishments functioning in New Delhi, district of NCT of Delhi shall close their shops, commercial and business establishments from 08/09/2023 to 10/09/2023 and grant paid holiday to their employees/workers," it said.

The summit is likely to be attended by 29 heads of state as well as top officials of the European Union and invited guest countries and 14 heads of international organisations.
Shimla, August 29 (PTI) In a crackdown against timber and fuel wood smuggling in the state, the Himachal Pradesh government Tuesday banned the felling of mango and five other tree species with immediate effect.

A ban has been imposed on the felling of Mango, Triyambal (Ficus species), Toon (Toona ciliata), Padam or Pajja (Prunus cerasus), Ritha (Sapindus mukorossi) and Baan (Quercus leucotrichophora), a statement issued here said.

Announcing the ban, Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu said there would be a total ban on the export of timber and fuel wood of these six species out of the state.

The move is aimed at curbing illegal trade and preserving the region's valuable resources, he said.



Sukhu added that under the new regulations, all these six species have been brought under the ten-year felling programme, which mandates that these trees need to survive for at least ten years before they are axed.

Any tree belonging to one of these species can be axed only after permission from the forest department, Sukhu said.

The felling of a maximum of five trees in a year will be allowed for domestic purposes, the statement said.

A revised list of permissible tree species has been notified, allowing only thirteen species to be felled with prior intimation to the Range officer, while felling of other species will also require forest clearances, the statement said.

This step will not only safeguard indigenous species but also play a pivotal role in wildlife preservation, the chief minister said.
New Delhi, Aug 29 (PTI) The Supreme Court on Tuesday said it would hear on October 3 a plea by Vikas Yadav, who is serving a 25-year jail term in the sensational 2002 Nitish Katara murder case, raising the issue of denial of remission benefit to him.

On October 3, 2016, the apex court gave jail term without any benefit of remission to Vikas Yadav, son of controversial Uttar Pradesh politician D P Yadav, and his cousin Vishal Yadav for their role in the kidnapping and killing of business executive Katara. The two were against Katara's alleged affair with Bharti Yadav, sister of Vikas, as they belonged to different castes.

Another co-convict Sukhdev Pehalwan was also handed down a 20-year jail term in the case that too without any remission benefit.

In his plea filed in the top court, Vikas Yadav has sought a direction that the benefit of remission is part of the right to personal liberty protected under Article 21 of the Constitution and cannot be restricted even by a judicial pronouncement of the courts.

As the matter came up for hearing on Tuesday before a bench comprising justices Aniruddha Bose and Sanjay Kumar, senior advocate Aparajita Singh and advocate Durga Dutt, who were representing Nitish Katara's mother Nilam Katara, opposed the plea and said it should be dismissed.

The petitioner's counsel told the bench that Vikas Yadav is in jail for 22 years without any remission.

Additional Solicitor General Aishwarya Bhati, representing the Centre, also sought dismissal of the plea. "Your lordships time can't be abused like this," Bhati said.

The plea has also sought a direction that no criminal court, including the high court or even the apex court, can pass a sentence that is not provided in the penal code and fix the minimum sentence of 25 years in a case of life imprisonment before grant of remission.

The plea has urged the apex court to hold that Vikas Yadav is entitled to the benefit of suspension, remission or commutation of the sentence imposed upon him which may be granted by the appropriate government and consequently, direct the officials concerned to consider the entitlement of such reliefs to him.

Vikas Yadav has said in his plea that it raises a "very important and substantial question of law" which directly relates to Articles 21 (protection of life and personal liberty) and 246 (subject matter of laws made by parliament and by the legislatures of states) of the Constitution.

Referring to a 2015 verdict of the apex court, the plea said it had the effect of depriving the petitioner from being considered for remission for 25 years, that is, 11 additional years in terms of section 433A of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC).

Section 433A of the CrPC deals with restrictions on powers of remission or commutation in certain cases.

"Despite being a convict, the petitioner is entitled to his fundamental rights under Article 21 of the Constitution of India, as has been held by this court in a catena of judgments," the plea said.

Earlier, the Delhi High Court, while upholding the life imprisonment awarded to Vikas and Vishal Yadav by the trial court, had specified a 30-year sentence, without any remission, to both of them.

It had awarded a 25-year jail term to the third convict Pehalwan.
Chennai, Aug 29 (PTI) The Madras High Court on Tuesday dismissed senior BJP leader H Raja's plea to quash the proceedings against him in various lower courts in different cases, pertaining to making defamatory statements, including against rational leader EVR Periyar.



The court transferred them to respective special courts.



Justice N Anand Venkatesh gave the ruling on a Raja's pleas in cases relating to him making defamatory remarks about the women in the households of Tamil Nadu Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments department officials, late Dravidian icon EV Ramasamy 'Periyar' and late DMK president M Karunanidhi.



"The petitioner will be entitled to differ from the views, thoughts and ideologies of Periyar. However, he cannot cross the Lakshman Rekha and make such a statement, which directly affects the sentiments of the people of Tamil Nadu who follow Periyarism. The petitioner has tweeted in his Twitter (account) that all the statues of Periyar must be broken, like how the statue of Lenin was broken at Tripura (some years ago after BJP stormed the Left citadel) and the petitioner has addressed Periyar as a caste fanatic."



"This statement made by the petitioner (Raja) clearly has crossed the limits and it is prima facie capable of causing disturbance to the public order. The tweet certainly hovers around hate speech," the court said.



Every other political party traces their ideology from Periyar and "he is virtually seen as a Demi God, who is virtually worshiped by Tamils who support rational thinking," the judge added.



Quoting from Tirukkural, the judge said whatever besides you leave unguarded, guard your tongue; otherwise errors of speech and the consequent misery will ensue. "This warning given by Thiruvalluvar perfectly applies to the petitioner."



Proceedings in cases in local courts in Erode in this connection were withdrawn and transferred to the Special Court for MP/MLA Cases at Chennai, and it shall be heard as a single case, the court ruled.



Similarly, dismissing Raja's another petition against the proceedings in the case relating to making alleged derogatory remarks against Karunanidhi, the judge said the proceedings pending before a local court in Erode shall be transferred to the Special Court for MP/MLA Cases there within a period of four weeks.



"The person holding a responsible post in a national party can comment upon the policies and shortcomings of the opposition party and its leaders. However, such a comment should not touch upon the personal character/ status and such a comment definitely will have the propensity to cause disturbance in the society and may also lead to a law and order problem."



"The words are powerful than swords and whereas the sword will cause injury to an individual but words can create a very serious impact over a large section of people. Unfortunately, the petitioner did not realise that his comments in the tweet, will result in the commission of a criminal offence," the court added.



Raja is a former MLA.
I) A labourer was electrocuted while two others were injured while installing a pole of a solar light in a village here on Monday, police said.

According to the complaint filed by victim Suraj, a resident of Charkhi Dadri district, contractor Sudhir had asked him to install a solar light on the pole in Samarthala village, police said.

Suraj along with Monu and Jeetu were carrying the pole on their shoulders when all of them suddenly got a strong electric shock and were thrown about five feet away, they said.

Monu was seriously injured in the incident and was rushed to a nearby private hospital where doctors declared him dead. I had asked the contractor several times earlier to provide safety equipment while working, but he did not listen to me, Suraj alleged in his complaint.

An FIR was registered against Sudhir under section 304 A (death due to negligence) of the IPC at Sohna police station on Monday, police said, adding a probe is underway and action will be taken as per the law.
Thane, Aug 29 (PTI) The Government Railway Police (GRP) has arrested two persons in connection with a series of thefts onboard express trains and recovered stolen valuables worth Rs 4.14 lakh in Maharashtra's Thane district, an official said on Tuesday.

The GRP's crime branch last week nabbed the accused Dinesh Ganpat Ninave and Santosh Prasannakumar Choudhari, both aged 35, in connection with a theft onboard an express train at Kalyan in May, the official said.



Following interrogation, the police recovered 51 gm of gold, five mobile phones and a tablet valued at Rs 4.14 lakh from the duo, he said.

The duo were history-sheeters and were involved in five cases of thefts onboard trains, the official added.
Staff members take a photo with Meitu app at the exhibition hall of the company in Xiamen, southeast China's Fujian Province, Nov. 10, 2020. Chinese internet company Meitu generated 1.26 billion yuan (175 million U.S. dollars) in revenue in the first half of 2023, an increase of 29.8 percent year on year.

The company recorded an adjusted net profit of 151 million yuan in the first six months, up 320.4 percent year on year, according to the company's financial report disclosed on Monday. (Xinhua/Jiang Kehong)

XIAMEN, Aug. 29 (Xinhua) -- Chinese internet company Meitu generated 1.26 billion yuan (175 million U.S. dollars) in revenue in the first half of 2023, an increase of 29.8 percent year on year.

The company recorded an adjusted net profit of 151 million yuan in the first six months, up 320.4 percent year on year, according to the company's financial report disclosed on Monday.

The surge was mainly the result of subscription revenues related to photo, video and design products powered by AI-generated content, with the number of VIP app users reaching a record high of 7.2 million by June 30.

The total number of monthly active users reached 247 million by the end of June.

Research and development (R&D) expenses increased by 10.8 percent to 294 million yuan during the period.

Founded in October 2008, Meitu is an AI-driven technology company that aims to "beautify" users with its image products and beauty management services. 
Westerly, RI (02891)

Today

Light rain early...then remaining cloudy with showers in the afternoon. High 62F. Winds W at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 70%..

Tonight

Cloudy skies early, then partly cloudy after midnight. Low near 40F. Winds NNW at 5 to 10 mph.




Joshua Padilla, a serial offender with an extensive rap sheet of more than 200 arrests and ongoing criminal cases across four New York City boroughs, managed to escape incarceration once again, leading law enforcement on a dangerous stolen car chase that left two officers injured.

Despite facing over half a dozen criminal cases and being on parole following a three-year prison sentence for grand larceny, Padilla was able to evade jail time, prompting law enforcement to dub him Teflon due to his ability to escape legal consequences.

Described by a source as human carnage on wheels, Padillas streak of luck finally ran out when he was arrested after a chaotic driving spree. During the incident, he attempted to flee police by jumping off a 15-foot overpass and stealing a van, which he later crashed into an NYPD cruiser.

The NYPD posted about the incident on social media, stating, So @NYPD33Pct cops & detectives assisted in tracking & catching a career criminal w/ 200+ prior arrests & 7 warrants after stealing a getaway car that didnt get him very far. At the time of his arrest, Padilla had multiple robbery and grand larceny cases pending in Manhattan, Queens, the Bronx, and Brooklyn.

With a staggering 201 prior arrests dating back to 2006, including charges ranging from forgery and burglary to reckless endangerment, Padillas criminal history is extensive and varied. He was previously sentenced to three to six years in prison in 2017 for grand larceny but was released on parole in 2021.

Despite his parole status, Padillas criminal activities continued, encompassing car thefts, robberies, and assaults. Law enforcement referred to him as a modern-day outlaw who seemed to operate with impunity, taking advantage of what they described as a revolving door justice system.

During his recent encounter with the law, Padilla was spotted driving a stolen vehicle on the Henry Hudson Parkway, which led to a dramatic chase involving multiple stolen cars. He allegedly jumped off an overpass, stole another vehicle, and crashed it into an NYPD patrol car, causing injuries to two officers.

Padilla was charged with fourth-degree grand larceny and fourth-degree criminal possession of stolen property. He remains in custody on Rikers Island while facing various charges in different boroughs.

(YWN World Headquarters  NYC)




OpenAI, a leading artificial intelligence organization, announced on Monday its plans to introduce ChatGPT Enterprise, a business-oriented iteration of its popular AI-powered conversational model. The move comes in response to a decline in usership over the past nine months since the debut of ChatGPT, the revolutionary AI sensation.

ChatGPT Enterprise is positioned to cater to corporate clientele by providing a premium version of the chatbot, complete with enterprise grade security measures and privacy enhancements. OpenAI emphasized the importance of data security, especially after notable companies like Apple, Amazon, and Samsung prohibited their employees from using ChatGPT, citing concerns about confidential information exposure.

In an official blog post, OpenAI stated, Today marks another step towards an AI assistant for work that helps with any task, is customized for your organization, and that protects your company data.

Drawing parallels to Microsofts Bing Chat Enterprise, which leverages OpenAI technology through a significant partnership, ChatGPT Enterprise will be powered by GPT-4, OpenAIs most advanced model. This aligns with the structure of ChatGPT Plus, the subscription-based version for individuals. However, the business version will include specialized benefits, notably improved speed.

We believe AI can assist and elevate every aspect of our working lives and make teams more creative and productive, the company affirmed.

Already, prominent organizations such as Carlyle, The Estee Lauder Companies, and PwC have adopted ChatGPT Enterprise as early adopters, signaling initial interest in the enterprise-focused AI solution.

This unveiling arrives at a time when ChatGPT faces challenges in maintaining the fervor that led it to become the worlds fastest downloaded app in its initial weeks of launch. Last month, that distinction was claimed by Threads, a social media platform from Meta, the parent company of Facebook.

According to data from analytics firm Similarweb, ChatGPT experienced a nearly 10 percent decline in traffic during both June and July. Analysts speculate that this decrease might partly be due to the summer break for school-goers, a demographic that constitutes a significant portion of ChatGPTs user base, particularly those aged 18-24.

Despite its popularity, OpenAI has encountered resistance from news publishers and various platforms, including Twitter (now known as X) and Reddit. These platforms have restricted OpenAI web crawlers from collecting their data for training AI models.

Pew Research Center also released findings on Monday, shedding light on public sentiment toward AI and ChatGPT. Of the surveyed US-based respondents familiar with ChatGPT, two-thirds expressed concerns that government regulations might not be stringent enough. The research highlighted an increase in ChatGPTs utilization for educational and professional purposes, rising from 12 percent in March to 16 percent in July. Additionally, 52 percent of Americans voiced greater apprehension than excitement about the expanding use of artificial intelligence.

(YWN World Headquarters  NYC)




As the impending trial on charges of obstructing the 2020 election looms for former President Donald Trump, his legal team appears to be considering a high-stakes maneuver to delay or potentially circumvent the proceedings: initiating a consequential battle for presidential immunity before the United States Supreme Court.

Traditionally, US presidents enjoy protection from a majority of lawsuits. However, in a precedent-setting twist, Trumps previous attempt to invoke immunity in a civil case linked to the January 6, 2021, assault on the US Capitol was unsuccessful. Despite this setback, the appeal of that decision has lingered for over a year, serving as a potential blueprint for seeking a postponement of his upcoming criminal trial involving efforts to overturn the 2020 election results.

While Trumps legal team has yet to formally request immunity in the criminal case, it is anticipated that they might contend that he is entitled to broad immunity against prosecution for actions taken in the context of his official duties as President.

During a recent hearing, Trumps attorney, John Lauro, pointed out that the Supreme Court has not yet rendered a verdict on the scope of executive immunity in a criminal context. Lauros argument regarding immunity did not sway US District Judge Tanya Chutkan, who declined to accommodate Trumps desired trial date of 2026. Nevertheless, Lauro indicated that if the legal team does pursue the immunity argument, they would likely petition the judge to pause the criminal trial until the matter is conclusively settled.

However, legal experts view this strategy as a long shot, as US appellate judges generally hesitate to entertain cases until a final judgment is reached. Additionally, there exists a precedent of public officials facing prosecution for actions undertaken during their time in office.

Brandon Fox, a former federal prosecutor with experience handling public corruption cases, remarked, Its unprecedented, alluding to the unique nature of a former presidents prosecution for events occurring while in office.

Historically, the Supreme Court has weighed in on issues related to civil lawsuits and criminal investigations involving presidents and executive branch officials. Yet, no sitting or former president has faced federal indictment before.

Despite the Justice Departments policy against prosecuting a sitting president, this stance is not legally binding on courts and predominantly concerns its impact on the presidents capacity to fulfill official duties.

Trumps federal charges involve allegations of conspiring to criminally interfere with the 2020 election results. The accusations span the period between the November general election and the January 6 attack on the Capitol. This indictment is one of four entered against the former president this year.

(YWN World Headquarters  NYC)




U.S. Supreme Court Justice Amy Coney Barrett told attendees at a judicial conference in Wisconsin on Monday that she welcomed public scrutiny of the court. But she stopped short of commenting on whether she thinks the court should change how it operates in the face of recent criticism.

Barrett did not offer any opinion, or speak directly about, recent calls for the justices to institute an official code of conduct.

Barrett took questions from Diane Sykes, chief judge of the 7th U.S. Circuit Court, at a conference attended by judges, attorneys and court personnel. The event came at a time when public trust in the court is at a 50-year low following a series of polarizing rulings, including the overturning of Roe v. Wade and federal abortion protections last year.

Barrett did not mention the ethics issues that have dogged some justices  including conservatives Clarence Thomas and Samuel Alito and the liberal Sonia Sotomayor.

Public scrutiny is welcome, Barrett said. Increasing and enhancing civics education is welcome.

Barrett, 51, said the immediacy and amount of information that is available has fed the increased scrutiny of the Supreme Court.

Youre not waiting once a day to read your print newspaper, she said. Youre seeing things come across your phone all the time, and youre seeing pictures of people.

Barrett recalled that before the birth of the internet when she was a law clerk, people routinely visited the Supreme Court and asked justices on the court to take their pictures or for directions because they did not know who they were.

People just didnt recognize who the justices were, Barrett said. I think thats better. I dont think justices should be recognizable in that sense.

But she said that critique of the court is nothing new.

Justices and all judges are public figures and public criticism comes with the job, Barrett said. Im still kind of new at this.

Barrett was a circuit court judge in the 7th Circuit from 2017 to 2020 until she was appointed to the Supreme Court. She graduated from Notre Dame Law School, in northern Indiana, and taught law there from 2002 until her appointment to replace Ruth Bader Ginsburg on the Supreme Court.

Ive been at it for a couple of years now, Barrett said. Ive acquired a thick skin, and I think thats what other figures have to do. I think thats what all judges have to do.

She said there is both good and bad to the court being in the news so much recently.

To the extent that it engages people in the work of the court and paying attention to the court and knowing what the courts do and what the Constitution has to say, thats a positive development, she said. To the extent that it gives them misimpressions, thats a negative development.

Barretts public appearance came after Justice Elena Kagan, at a conference in Oregon earlier this month, publicly declared her support for an ethics code for the Supreme Court. But she said there was no consensus among the justices on how to proceed, suggesting the high court is grappling with public concerns over its ethics practices.

Justice Samueal Alito, during an interview with the Wall Street Journal opinion pages in July, said Congress lacks the power to impose a code of ethics on the Supreme Court. That made him the first member of the court to take a public stand against proposals in Congress to toughen ethics rules for justices in response to increased scrutiny of their activities beyond the bench.

Justice Brett Kavanaugh, the only other justice to make public comments since the courts term ended in June, largely avoided discussing ethics during an appearance at a judicial conference in Minnesota last month.

The Associated Press obtained thousands of pages of documents that show how justices spanning the courts ideological divide have lent the prestige of their positions to partisan activity  by headlining speaking events with prominent politicians  or to advance their own personal interests, such as book sales, through college visits. And reporting from ProPublica earlier this year revealed Justice Clarence Thomas participated in lavish vacations and a real estate deal with a top Republican donor.

Barrett described the court as warm, with justices sharing lunches together.

Theres warm personal relations, she said. Theres an effort to accommodate one another.

The conference where Barrett spoke was for the 7th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, which covers Wisconsin, Illinois and Indiana, where Barrett previously lived. The meeting was held in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin, a resort area 80 miles northwest of Chicago.

(AP)




Ex-Israeli Consul-General to New York Asaf Zamir, who was dismissed from his position in March, announced on Monday that he is returning to the municipal arena and will be making a joint run for the Tel Aviv mayoral race with incumbent mayor Ron Huldai.

According to a Channel 12 News report earlier this month, the 79-year-old Huldai, who has served as the mayor of Tel Aviv for 25 years, offered Zamir a deal in which they would run together, with Huldai serving as mayor and Zamir as deputy mayor. Huldai committed to retire from the position of mayor in 2027, at the start of the fifth year of the term, and transfer it to Zamir. According to law, if the mayor retires in the last year of the term, there are no general elections and the city council chooses a replacement. According to the report, Zamir told his associates about the deal, saying that it was a joint attempt to beat his main rival in the race, Orna Barbivai.

Barbivai, a former member of the Yesh Atid party who served as the Economy Minister in the Bennett-Lapid government, announced her candidacy for the Tel Aviv mayoral race in June. She slammed Zamirs announcement and the reports of his deal with Huldai by stating that they joined together to create some sort of monarchical rule as if it was a private business  to transfer the city from one to anotherThis rotten deal is the most illiberal, the most undemocratic, a kind of artificial soul for a term that is far beyond what it should beI suggest that they reveal this dark deal because the public should know about it.

Zamir served as Deputy Mayor of Tel Aviv from 2008 until 2013 and Acting Mayor in charge of education from 2013 to 2018. In 2018, Zamir unsuccessfully challenged Huldai for leadership of the city. He subsequently joined the Knesset as part of the Blue and White party but resigned from the Knesset in 2020. In 2021, he was appointed Consul-General in New York by then-Foreign Minister Yair Lapid under the Lapid-Bennett government.

(YWN Israel Desk  Jerusalem)




The anarchists protesting against the government love to engage in extremist rhetoric about the destruction of democracy, the end of the State of Israel, and other fearmongering statements, and regularly compare Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu to dictators such as Stalin and Kim Jong Un.

Ex-prime minister Ehud Barak raised the bar recently by sharing a video comparing Netanyahu to Hitler. But apparently, Barak is not the only leftist brazen enough to make such radical comparisons. On Monday, educators at Tel Aviv University held a protest against Education Minister Yoav Kisch (Likud). A photo of the event, shared by Kisch on social media, shows a protester holding a sign announcing the establishment of a new youth movement similar to Hitler Youth  Kisch Youth.

Kisch wrote: I was astounded to see a sign today at the educators protest at Tel Aviv University, close to the stage, that compares me to Hilter.

Have you gone completely crazy?

And there wasnt one person, not one, who condemned this abominable sign. You should be ashamed.

(YWN Israel Desk  Jerusalem)




An Air Seychelles flight on the way to Israel on Monday evening was forced to make an unscheduling landing on Monday night at the Jeddah airport in Saudi Arabia due to a technical malfunction.

According to a Saudi news report on Tuesday morning, the pilots notified the control tower at the King Abdulaziz International Airport about a distress call due to the smell of smoke in the cockpit. Air officials at the airport prepared for a possible emergency landing but fortunately, the plane landed safely.

One of the passengers later told Kan News that the passengers, including 128 Israelis, were stuck on the plane without electricity or functioning bathrooms for three hours after it landed. However, once they got off the plane, they were greeted warmly by Saudi airport officials and hotel rooms were arranged for everyone. The Saudis could not have been nicer, one Israeli passenger told Ynet on Tuesday.

Another passenger, Emmanuel Carmel, told Radio 103FM: It was really surprising. We were concerned but they told us Youre more than welcome. The truth is that we didnt expect it.

She added that many passengers were perturbed when the pilot announced that the plane was making an emergency landing in Saudi Arabia. It was stressful. We landed and then people began to get up and ask what was going on, people started getting upset and crying. We were quite shocked.

The passengers slept in the airport hotel overnight Monday and meanwhile, another flight was arranged for their return to Israel. Israels Foreign Ministry announced on Tuesday morning that the passengers of the Air Seychelles flight that landed yesterday in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia are staying overnight at a hotel at the airport. A replacement Air Seychelles plane took off a short time ago from Dubai to Jeddah and is expected to land there in about two and a half hours. The Foreign Ministry is in contact with the passengers of the plane, with the airline, and with the relevant entities in Israel with the aim of bringing about a quick end to the incident.

The replacement Air Seychelles plane took off from Jeddah to Israel early Tuesday afternoon, the first direct commercial flight from the kingdom to Israel, landing in Tel Aviv before 2 p.m. Channel 12 News reported that among the Israeli passengers were security officials who were on vacation. However, due to the presence of Israeli security officials in a country that does not maintain diplomatic relations with Israel, the National Security Council and senior security officials were involved in the incident. The US Embassy in Israel was also very involved in resolving the matter.

Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu released a video message with Arabic subtitles on Tuesday afternoon thanking the Saudis for their friendly welcome to the Israeli passengers. I really appreciate the good neighborliness, he said.

(YWN Israel Desk  Jerusalem)
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Holidaymakers whose flights are delayed or cancelled are entitled to refunds or rebooked flights - but the bad news is the system can be tricky to navigate.

This can pile extra work and confusion onto travellers already grappling with stressful flight delays, such as the thousands of current flight hold-ups due to air traffic control problems.

As many as 80 per cent of flights leaving the UK were delayed yesterday following a 'huge failure' of the national air traffic control system, with experts warning of more disruption this week.

Thousands more flights have been cancelled or delayed this year alone due to staffing issues, security hold-ups and wildfires caused by climate change.

Holiday hell: Holidaymakers face delays this week after air traffic control systems crashed

Flights are some of the most expensive purchases Britons make, with costs easily running into the hundreds or thousands of pounds for a family trip.

But travellers can get refunds and compensation when airlines ground flights.

This is our ultimate guide to everything you need to know about your rights when your flight gets delayed or cancelled.

Your rights if your flight is delayed

Consumers rights around flight problems are protected by law - namely European Union Regulation 261/2004, often just called 'EU 261'. This law still applies in the UK after Brexit.

It says airlines must compensate passengers if their flight is cancelled or heavily delayed.

Being a European law, it only guarantees delay compensation for flights that:

Start in the UK

Arrive in the UK from the EU or UK airline

Arrive in Europe from a UK airline

How much money you get depends on how long your flight has been delayed.

If you cannot remember how long the delay was, the free website Flightstats.com will tell you.

Compensation if your flight was delayed Trip distance Delay criteria Compensation Up to 1,500km Arriving at least three hours late 210 1,500km to 3,500km Arriving at least three hours late 340 More than 3,500km Arriving between three and four hours late 250 More than 3,500km Arriving more than four hours late 520 Source: CAA rules

All the above compensation is per person that is delayed.

EU261 rights kick in if you have bought a flight ticket and have arrived to check in for that flight.

You do not need to be a citizen of an EU country, or the UK, to get compensation, just be on a qualifying flight.

If your flight is delayed you are also entitled to other sorts of compensation, such as food and drink, hotel accommodation and the ability to make phone calls and emails.

This applies for:

Delays of two or more hours on flights of up to 1,500km

Delays of three or more hours on flights of more than 1,500km within the EU, or all other flights between 1,500km and 3,500km

Delays of four or more hours on all other qualifying flights

Know your rights: You may be entitled to compensation for flight delays and cancellations

If your airline does not give you food, drink or vouchers in this situation then you can pay for this yourself and claim it back, but only for reasonable expenses - so no alcohol.

If your flight is delayed for at least five hours, you are entitled to:

A full refund for the ticket price

Alternative flights to your destination

If your flight is delayed so badly that it takes off a day or more later than scheduled, you are also entitled to:

A hotel stay

Transport to that hotel

Are there any exceptions?

Sadly, yes.

Airlines do not have to pay any compensation if they can claim the delay was not their fault - for example because of very bad weather.

Laura Howard, travel insurance expert at Forbes Advisor, says: 'If you are stranded at the airport, check with your airline for the most up-to-date information, as well as alternative travel arrangements and other ways it can help in the face of lengthy delays.

'For example, Civil Aviation Authority rules state that if your flight is delayed or cancelled  and certain conditions are met  the airline must provide sustenance, often as meal vouchers, accommodation if you are rerouted the next day (usually in a nearby hotel), and transport to and from the accommodation or your home, if you are able to return there.

'It must even provide a way for you to communicate, usually by reimbursing the cost of your calls.'

How do I get this compensation?

You have to contact your airline directly for delay compensation.

Your rights if your flight is cancelled

If your flight is cancelled, your airline will step in to help, either by rebooking your travel or issuing a refund, whichever you prefer.

Your rebooking rights

As with delayed flights, airlines have to follow EU261 rules when they cancel flights.

These rules say passengers have the right to take an alternative flight with the same airline to their destination, or to cancel the flight and get a full refund.

But airlines don't always have to pay out and can avoid doing so if the delay is caused by an extraordinary circumstance, such as bad weather or crew strikes.

>> Read our guide to getting the right travel insurance policy

If a flight is cancelled you should be offered an alternative flight with the same airline to your destination either on the day or the day after, if there is room.

If that is not possible, you should be given the option of a flight with a different airline to your destination, if there's space.

If you end up paying for this separately you should be able to claim any extra money paid back  if you can prove no other suitable option was given by the original airline.

Feeling floored: Delayed and cancelled flights can cause huge distress to travellers

Your refund rights if your flight is cancelled

If a replacement flight is not possible, or you just do not want it, the next step is to get a refund or a voucher.

Rules from the Civil Aviation Authority regulator say that refunds should be given as cash, but if you do not ask for this then your airline may offer a voucher instead.

Your compensation rights if your flight is cancelled

You may also be able to get compensation for a cancelled flight, on top of any refund.

If you were given more than 14 days' notice about the cancellation, you will only be entitled to a new flight or a refund for your original flight. But if you were given 14 or fewer days' notice, you might be able to claim compensation on top of a refund or alternative flight.

The amount of compensation of offer differs depending on when you were told about the cancellation, the length of the flight, and how long you had to wait for a new flight.

The cancellation also needs to have been something which could have been avoided by the airline so you won't be able to claim for reasons such as a crew strike or extreme weather conditions.

How do I get this compensation?

You have to contact your airline directly for compensation for cancellations.

Compensation if your flight was cancelled the week before leaving Trip distance Replacement flight criteria Compensation Less than 1,500km Leaving at least one hour before original flight 110 Less than 1,500km Arriving up to two hours after original flight 110 Less than 1,500km Arriving at least two hours later than original flight 220 1,500km to 3,500km Leaving at least one hour before original flight 175 1,500km to 3,500km Arriving up to three hours after original flight 175 1,500km to 3,500km Arriving at least three hours later than original flight 350 More than 3,500km Leaving at least one hour before original flight 260 More than 3,500km Arriving up to four hours after original flight 260 More than 3,500km Arriving at least four hours later than original flight 520 Source: CAA rules

Compensation if your flight was cancelled one to two weeks before leaving Trip distance Replacement flight criteria Compensation Less than 1,500km Leaving at least two hours before original flight 110 Less than 1,500km Arriving up to two hours after original flight 110 Less than 1,500km Arriving at least two hours earlier than original flight 220 Less than 1,500km Arriving at least two hours later than original flight 220 1,500km to 3,500km Leaving up to two hours before original flight 175 1,500km to 3,500km Arriving up to three hours after original flight 175 1,500km to 3,500km Leaving up to two hours earlier than original flight 350 1,500km to 3,500km Arriving three to hour hours later than original flight 350 1,500km to 3,500km Arriving at least four hours later than original flight 350 More than 3,500km Leaving up to two hours before original flight 260 More than 3,500km Arriving up to four hours after original flight 260 More than 3,500km Arriving at least four hours later than original flight 520 Source: CAA rules

What are my refund rights if I cancel a flight?

If you cancel a flight yourself then your airline has no obligation to refund you unless you bought a refundable ticket, also known as 'flexible booking'.

Airlines offering this include British Airways, easyJet and Ryanair.

However, you may pay extra for this flexibility, and the exact terms vary according to the airline.

For example, British Airways lets you cancel a flight and get a full refund within 24 hours of booking.

Cancelling after that point means you may have to pay a fee.

Does travel insurance pay out for cancelled flights?

Yes, but only for some situations.

Most travel insurance policies include cancellation cover, meaning they will pay claims if you need to abort a holiday due to something genuinely unpredictable such as in injury that prevents you travelling.

Other examples where travel insurance will pay out include your home being badly damaged and needing urgent attention, your passport being stolen and being called up for jury duty.

If you just change your mind about the holiday, insurance will not pay out.

However, before an insurer pays out they will want you to first check with your airline or tour operators to discuss if they might be able to pay you.

Only after that point does insurance kick in.

Louise Clark, policy adviser at the Association of British Insurers trade body, said: 'If your flight or accommodation is cancelled, refunds should be sought from the airline, accommodation provider or tour operator in the first instance. Any bookings made through a credit card may also have recoverable costs.'

What about ATOL and ABTA?

ATOL stands for Air Travel Organiser's Licence. ATOL protection covers people taking a package holiday with a flight involved.

The ATOL scheme was set up back in 1973 to cover people flying abroad from being cut off if their holiday firm failed. It promises holidaymakers a refund or replacement trip if a holiday tour firm fails before their trip starts.

If a package holiday company goes bust during a trip, ATOL protection pays for accommodation and can handle refunds for things like car hire and flights home.

ABTA is a similar scheme, but it only covers holidays that do not involve a flight.
Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet speaks during a meeting with garment factory workers in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, Aug. 29, 2023. Hun Manet said on Tuesday that the government would continue to create more jobs, raise the monthly minimum wage for the garment, footwear and travel goods industry, and further reduce poverty. (Photo by Ly Lay/Xinhua)

PHNOM PENH, Aug. 29 (Xinhua) -- Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet said Tuesday that the government would continue to create more jobs, raise the monthly minimum wage for the garment, footwear and travel goods industry, and further reduce poverty.

The prime minister made the remarks while appearing at a public forum gathering about 18,000 garment factory workers.

"The government will continue to maintain peace and stability, defend sovereignty and territorial integrity, and further promote socioeconomic development for the people," he said. 
Firms including Unilever, advertised by actress Eva Longoria,(pictured) face renewed criticism for their presence in Russia

Western companies that are still selling air fresheners and ice cream in Russia have been accused of dragging their feet.

Shamed firms including Unilever and Reckitt face renewed criticism for their continuing presence in the country after Heineken and Dominos became the latest to cease operations.

Businesses have argued it is logistically difficult to close or sell their Russian arms.

But Mark Dixon, of the Moral Rating Agency, said: Feet-draggers often want more money than their Russian assets are worth  they put greed above morality, but they will get burned in the end.

However, Hein Schumacher, the boss of Unilever, the maker of Magnum, as advertised by actress Eva Longoria, insisted: None of the options are good, but the final option of operating our business in a constrained manner is the least bad.
Rio Tinto has sold 55 per cent of its stake in the La Granja copper project in Peru, South America to Canadian minerals firm First Quantum.

The deal is worth $105million (83.4million) with the group saying it will invest up to 'a further $546million into the joint venture to sole fund capital and operational costs to take the project through a feasibility study and toward development'.

'La Granja, located at high altitude in Cajamarca, Northern Peru, has the potential to be a large, long-life operation, with a published Indicated and Inferred Mineral Resource totalling 4.32billion tonnes at 0.51 per cent copper', Rio adds.

Rio Tinto has sold 55% of its stake in the La Granja copper project in Peru to First Quantum

Tristan Pascall, First Quantum chief executive, said: 'La Granja has the potential to be a large, long-life operation and supply the copper that will be needed as the world transitions to the greener economy and where responsible mining will be the only acceptable way to produce metals.

'As operator, we will leverage our core strengths in mine design, project development and community engagement and look forward to developing our partnership with Rio Tinto.

'We appreciate the support from the Government of Peru for the completion of this transaction.'

Rio Tinto shares are up by 1.3 per cent in early afternoon trading on Tuesday.

Rio Tinto Copper, chief executive, Bold Baatar said: 'Developing La Granja would provide a significant new supply of copper and further strengthen Rio Tinto's portfolio of materials needed for the energy transition.

'Our partnership with First Quantum will bring our combined development capabilities and deep knowledge of La Granja to progress the project.'

Earlier this month, Rio Tinto's chief executive broke into tears as he apologised to two whistleblowers who spent years raising concerns about misconduct at the company, according to a report seen by the Mail.

Jakob Stausholm, who has led the company since 2021, reportedly said that no one 'ever deserves' to be victimised and 'financially ruined' the way Dr Maurice Duffy, a long-time consultant with the company, and project manager Richard Bowley were by the FTSE 100 miner.

The leaked document makes a series of damning allegations about irregular payments, corruption and bullying at Rio over a number of years.
IG Group has announced that its chief executive will step down next month due to 'her health situation.'

June Felix, who has run the online trading platform for five years, has been on leave since early July for unspecified medical reasons.

IG has now told investors she will leave the business on 29 September, with finance boss Charlie Rozes continuing as acting chief executive while management consultancy Russell Reynolds searches for a replacement.

Departure: IG chief executive June Felix (pictured) has been on leave since early July for unspecified medical reasons. She will leave the business on 29 September

The FTSE 250 company has experienced exceptional growth since Felix, 66, took over in October 2018, when its trading was being impacted by tightening regulations on selling complex financial products to retail investors.

Following the pandemic, the firm saw a surge in first-time amateur traders looking to make some extra cash from heightened stock market volatility.

Amidst this frenzy, IG expanded its US operations with the $1billion acquisition of online brokerage Tastytrade, thereby giving it greater exposure to the country's fast-growing retail options and futures market.

For the last financial year, the London-based business reported annual revenues of over 1billion for the first time despite rising economic uncertainty causing a decline in active client numbers.

Felix said: 'It has been a great privilege to build and lead such a talented, ambitious group of people as the chief executive of IG Group for nearly five years.

'It has been through everyone's collective effort that we have built a stronger, more diverse company.'

Born in Pittsburgh, Felix started her career at Procter & Gamble before working for Johnson & Johnson and then moving into banking, with stints at Deutsche Bank, Citi and JP Morgan Chase.

She also ran IBM's banking and financial markets division and was the European president of payment processing platform VeriFone.

Felix had been a non-executive director of IG for three years before becoming its chief executive, making her one of the few female leaders of an FTSE 350 firm.

Mike McTighe, chairman of IG, said: 'We thank her for the significant contribution she has made over the past eight years as a board member and especially as group chief executive for almost five years.

'During her tenure as executive, the company has successfully pursued a strategy to diversify the business while at the same time strengthening its core OTC [over the counter] business, resulting in a doubling of the group's revenue and profit over the period.'

IG Group shares were up 0.5 per cent, or 3.5p, at 670.5p on early Tuesday afternoon, meaning they have slumped by around 28 per cent over the past two years.
The following companies are subsidiares of Xerox: A B S Digital Limited, Acorn Business Machines (Holmfirth) Limited, Alloy Acquisitions Corp. LLC, Altodigital Networks, Altodigital Networks Limited, American Photocopy Equipment Company of Pittsburgh LLC, Amici, Arena Group, Arena Group Holdings Limited, Arena Group Limited, Arizona Office Technologies Inc., B 2 Business Systems Limited, Back2Business Limited, Bessemer Insurance Limited, Bessemer Trust Limited, Boise Office Equipment Inc., Bright Ceramic Technologies Inc., Bryte Com Incorporated, Bunch CareSolutions, Business Systems (North Wales) Limited, CPAS Systems, CREDITEX - Aluguer de Equipamentos S.A., CTX Business Solutions Inc., Capital Business Systems Inc., Capitol Office Solutions LLC, CareAR Holdings LLC, CareAR Inc., Carolina Office Systems Inc., Carr Business Systems Inc., Chicago Office Technology Group Inc., Citrus Digital Limited, Citrus Digital Limited, Citrus Digital Limited, Citrus Digital Limited, ComDoc Inc., Competitive Computing, Competitive Computing Inc., Concept Group, Concept Group Limited, Conestoga Business Solutions, Connecticut Business Systems LLC, Consilience Software, Continua Limited, Continua Sanctum Limited, Conway Technology Group LLC, Copyrite Business Solutions (Holdings) Limited, Copyrite Business Solutions Limited, Copytrend Limited, Criterion IT Limited, Customer Value Group, Dahill Office Technology Corporation, Digitex, Digitex Canada Inc., DocuShare LLC, Docucentric Holdings Limited, Document Systems, Document Systems, Eastern Managed Print Network LLC, Elan Marketing Inc., Elan Office Systems, Electronic Systems Inc., Eloque Investor LLC, Eloque Investor LLC, Eloque Investor LLC, Eloque LLC, Eloque LLC, Eloque LLC, Eloque Limited, Eloque Limited, Eloque Limited, Eloque Pty Ltd., Eloque Pty Ltd., Eloque Pty Ltd., Fovia (Innovation) Limited, G-Five, G-Five Inc., GDP Technologies Inc., Gestion Sabely Inc. (Holding company), Gestion Sabely Inc. (Holding company), Gestion Sabely Inc. (Holding company), Global Imaging Systems, Global PR Corporation, Go Inspire, Groupe CT, Groupe CT Inc., Groupe CT Inc., Groupe CT Inc., Gyricon LLC, Healthy Communities Institute, Heritage Business Systems, Heritage Business Systems Inc., ITEC Connect Limited, ITEC Connect Limited, ITEC Connect Limited, ITEC Connect Limited, ITEC Group, Image Technology Specialists Inc., ImageQuest Inc., Imagetek Office Systems, Impika, Inland Business Machines Inc., Institute for Research on Learning, Integrity One Technologies Inc., Intrepid Learning, Invoco Group, Irish Business Systems, LRI LLC, Laser Resources, LaserNetworks, LaserNetworks Inc., Lateral Data, Learn Something, Les Equipments de Bureau de la Monteregie, Les Equipments de Bureau de la Monteregie, Lewan & Associates Inc., Limited Liability Company Xerox (C.I.S.), M & S Reprographics Limited, MCP of California II Inc., MRC Smart Technology Solutions Inc., MT Business Holdings Inc., MT Business Technologies, MT Business Technologies Inc., MWB Copy Products Inc., MagicLens Inc., Mail A Doc Limited, Merizon Group Incorporated, Michigan Office Solutions Inc., Minnesota Office Technology Group Inc., Mitral Systems Limited, Mr. Copy Inc., Nemo (AKS) Limited, NewField IT, NewField Information Technology LLC, NewField Information Technology Limited, Northeast Office Systems LLC, Osprey Business Systems Limited, PARC China Holdings Inc., Pacific Services and Development Corporation, Palo Alto Research Center Incorporated, Platinum Digital Print Solutions Limited, Powerland, Precision Copier Service Inc., Quality Business Systems Inc., Quilver Business Services Limited, R. K. Dixon Company, RRXH Limited, RRXIL Limited, RRXO Limited, RSA Medical, Rabbit Copiers Inc., Rabbit Office Automation, Reflex Digital Solutions (UK) Limited, Reprographics Egypt Limited, Saxon Business Systems Inc., Smart Data Consulting, SoCal Office Technologies Inc., Stem Networks Limited, Stewart Business Systems LLC, Stewart of Alabama, Stewart of Alabama Inc., StrataCare, Sunshine Subsidiary Corp, Talegen Holdings Inc., Tektronix - color printing, Text Comm Limited (in receivership), The Xerox (UK) Trust, The Xerox Foundation, Time Business Systems Limited, Triton Business Finance Limited, Una-Stem Limited, Veenman B.V., Veenman Financial Services B.V., WDS, WaterWare Internet Services, XC Asia LLC, XC Global Trading B.V., XC Trading Hong Kong Limited, XC Trading Hong Kong Limited, XC Trading Japan G.K., XC Trading Korea YH, XC Trading Malaysia Sdn. Bhd., XC Trading Shenzhen Co. Ltd., XC Trading Singapore Pte Ltd., XEROX CZECH REPUBLIC s r.o., XESystems Foreign Sales Corporation, XFS Secured Borrowing 2020-1 LLC, XHC Acquisition Corp., XMPie, XMPie Inc., XMPie Ltd., XRI Limited, XRO Limited, Xerox (Europe) Limited, Xerox (Europe) Limited, Xerox (Ireland) Limited, Xerox (Nederland) BV, Xerox (Romania) Echipmante Si Servici S.A., Xerox (UK) Limited, Xerox (Ukraine) Ltd LLC, Xerox (Ukraine) Ltd LLC, Xerox A/S, Xerox A/S, Xerox AG, Xerox AS, Xerox Argentina Industrial y Comercial S.A., Xerox Austria GmbH, Xerox Bulgaria EOOD, Xerox Business Equipment Limited, Xerox Business Services Bulgaria EOOD, Xerox Business Solutions LLC, Xerox Business Solutions Southeast LLC, Xerox Buro Araclari Servis ve Ticaret Ltd. Sti, Xerox Canada Inc., Xerox Canada Ltd., Xerox Canada N.S. ULC, Xerox Capital (Europe) Limited, Xerox Capital LLC, Xerox Computer Services Limited, Xerox Comercio e Industria Ltda, Xerox Comercio e Industria Ltda, Xerox Corporation, Xerox DNHC LLC, Xerox Dienstleistungsgesellschaft GmbH, Xerox Distributor Operations Limited, Xerox Egypt S.A.E., Xerox Equipment Limited, Xerox Equipment UK Limited, Xerox Espana S.A.U., Xerox Exports Limited, Xerox Finance AG, Xerox Finance Leasing S.A.E., Xerox Finance Limited, Xerox Financial Services B.V., Xerox Financial Services Belux NV, Xerox Financial Services Canada Holdings Limited, Xerox Financial Services Canada Holdings Limited, Xerox Financial Services Canada Holdings Limited, Xerox Financial Services Canada Ltd., Xerox Financial Services Danmark A/S, Xerox Financial Services Finland Oy, Xerox Financial Services Holdings LLC, Xerox Financial Services Holdings LLC, Xerox Financial Services Holdings LLC, Xerox Financial Services International Limited, Xerox Financial Services International Limited, Xerox Financial Services International Limited, Xerox Financial Services LLC, Xerox Financial Services Norway AS, Xerox Financial Services SAS, Xerox Financial Services Sverige AB, Xerox Foreign Holdings LLC, Xerox Foreign Sales Corporation, Xerox GmbH, Xerox Health Care LLC, Xerox Hellas AEE, Xerox Holding Deutschland GmbH, Xerox Holdings (Ireland) Limited, Xerox Holdings Corporation, Xerox Holdings Inc., Xerox Hungary Trading Limited, Xerox IBS Limited, Xerox IBS NI Limited, Xerox India Limited, Xerox International Joint Marketing Inc., Xerox Investments Europe B.V., Xerox Israel Ltd., Xerox Italia Rental Services Srl, Xerox Kazakhstan Limited Liability Partnership, Xerox Latinamerican Holdings Inc., Xerox Leasing Deutschland GmbH, Xerox Leasing GmbH, Xerox Limited, Xerox Luxembourg SA, Xerox Mailing Systems Limited, Xerox Manufacturing (Nederland) B.V., Xerox Maroc S.A., Xerox Mexicana S.A. de C.V., Xerox Middle East Investments (Bermuda) Limited, Xerox N.V., Xerox Overseas Holdings Limited, Xerox Overseas Inc., Xerox Oy, Xerox Pensions Limited, Xerox Polska Sp. z o. o, Xerox Portugal Equipamentos de Escritorio Limitada, Xerox Portugal Equipamentos de Escritorio Limitada, Xerox Products Limited, Xerox Products UK Limited, Xerox Professional Services Limited, Xerox Realty Corporation, Xerox Renting S.A.U., Xerox Reprographische Services GmbH, Xerox S.A.S., Xerox S.p.A., Xerox Secured Borrowing 2020-1 LLC, Xerox Servicios Compartidos Guatemala y Compani Limitada, Xerox Servicos e Participacoes Ltda, Xerox Shared Services Romania SRL, Xerox Sverige AB, Xerox Technology Services India LLP, Xerox Technology Services SAS, Xerox Telebusiness GmbH, Xerox Trading Enterprises Limited, Xerox Trinidad Limited, Xerox UK Holdings Limited, Xerox Ventures LLC, Xerox XHB Limited, Xerox XIB Limited, Xerox Xf Holdings (Ireland) DAC, Xerox de Chile S.A., Xerox del Ecuador S.A., Xerox del Peru S.A., Zeno Office Solutions, Zeno Office Solutions Inc., Zoom Imaging Solutions Inc., and inVentiv Patient Access Solutions.

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Applied Industrial Technologies, Inc. distributes industrial motion, power, control, and automation technology solutions in North America, Australia, New Zealand, and Singapore. It operates in two segments, Service Center Based Distribution, and Engineered Solutions. The company distributes bearings, power transmission products, engineered fluid power components and systems, specialty flow control solutions, advanced automation products, industrial rubber products, linear motion components, automation solutions, tools, safety products, oilfield supplies, and other industrial and maintenance supplies; and motors, belting, drives, couplings, pumps, hydraulic and pneumatic components, filtration supplies, valves, fittings, process instrumentation, actuators, and hoses, filtration supplies, as well as other related supplies for general operational needs of customers' machinery and equipment. It also operates fabricated rubber shops and service field crews that install, modify, and repair conveyor belts and rubber linings, as well as offer hose assemblies. In addition, the company provides technical support services; engages in the distribution of fluid power and industrial flow control products; advanced automation solutions, including machine vision, robotics, motion control, and smart technologies. It distributes industrial products through a network of service centers. The company serves various industries, including agriculture and food processing, cement, chemicals and petrochemicals, fabricated metals, forest products, industrial machinery and equipment, life sciences, mining, oil and gas, primary metals, technology, transportation, and utilities, as well as government entities. The company was formerly known as Bearings, Inc. and changed its to name to Applied Industrial Technologies, Inc. in 1997. The company was founded in 1923 and is headquartered in Cleveland, Ohio.
EOG Resources, Inc. is a leading independent exploration and production company focusing on the oil and gas industry. Based in Houston, Texas, EOG's mission is to provide energy solutions that power the world while adhering to the highest environmental and safety standards. With its robust portfolio of assets, talented management team, and commitment to technological advancements, EOG Resources has emerged as a key player in the energy sector.

EOG Resources operates in multiple locations across the globe, primarily focusing on North America, including the United States, Canada, and Trinidad. The company's primary products and services revolve around the exploration, development, production, and marketing of crude oil and natural gas. EOG Resources serves a diverse range of customers, including industrial, residential, and commercial sectors, as well as other energy companies.

EOG Resources is committed to minimizing its environmental impact. The company employs advanced drilling techniques and utilizes cutting-edge technologies to maximize production efficiency while reducing emissions and water usage. EOG's sustainability efforts align with its mission to provide reliable energy solutions for a sustainable future.

EOG Resources boasts a highly experienced and accomplished management team led by key executives with industry knowledge and expertise. Ezra Y. Yacob, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, has driven the company's strategic growth initiatives. With a strong background in geoscience and leadership roles, Mr. Yacob has been with EOG Resources since 2005. He has served in various key positions, including President and Executive Vice President of Exploration and Production.

Lloyd W. "Billy" Helms, Jr., President and Chief Operating Officer, joined EOG Resources in 1995 and has held several significant leadership positions within the company. Mr. Helms has been pivotal in overseeing the company's operations, exploration activities, and production strategies.

Timothy K. Driggers, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, has been integral to EOG Resources since 1995. Mr. Driggers' financial acumen and expertise have contributed to the company's financial stability and growth.

EOG Resources has consistently demonstrated strong financial performance, with steady revenue growth and healthy profit margins. EOG Resources has successfully navigated market fluctuations and achieved long-term financial stability.

When considering the company's valuation metrics, EOG Resources has been favorably positioned compared to its industry peers. The company's valuation metrics, such as price-to-earnings and price-to-book ratios, have reflected investor confidence in the company's future prospects and financial strength.

With significant price movements and trading volume, EOG Resources' stock performance has been notable. The company's stock has demonstrated resilience, responding to market conditions and reflecting investor sentiment. Recent news and events, including industry trends, regulatory changes, and geopolitical factors, have influenced EOG's share price.

EOG Resources operates in a dynamic and competitive industry highly influenced by global market conditions, regulatory policies, and technological advancements. The company competes with international and domestic players and strives to maintain a competitive edge through its operational excellence, technological innovation, and strong asset portfolio.

EOG Resources is well-positioned to capitalize on growth opportunities in the energy sector. The company continues to explore and develop new reserves, expand its operations and optimize production techniques. EOG's focus on technological advancements, such as utilizing data analytics and artificial intelligence, enhances its capabilities in identifying and extracting hydrocarbon resources efficiently.

Like any company operating in the energy sector, EOG Resources faces various risks and challenges that can impact its operations and financial performance. Investors and stakeholders must be aware of these factors when evaluating the company's prospects.

EOG Resources' revenue and profitability are closely tied to crude oil and natural gas prices. Fluctuations in commodity prices can significantly impact the company's financial results. Factors such as global supply and demand dynamics, geopolitical tensions, and economic conditions can lead to price volatility, posing a risk to EOG's revenue and profitability.

The energy industry is subject to extensive regulations related to drilling, production, emissions, and environmental impact. Regulation changes, especially those aimed at reducing carbon emissions and transitioning to renewable energy sources, can require significant investments and impact the company's operational costs. Non-compliance with regulations could result in penalties and reputational damage.

EOG Resources relies on advanced technologies and innovations to efficiently explore and produce hydrocarbon reserves. However, technological advancements also bring inherent risks, such as data security threats and potential operational disruptions. Additionally, adopting new technologies may require substantial investments and successful implementation to yield desired results.

The energy sector is highly competitive, with numerous players vying for market share. EOG Resources competes with both established energy companies and emerging players. Intense competition can lead to pricing pressures and reduced margins. Moreover, market conditions, such as supply and demand imbalances, can impact the company's ability to sell its products at favorable prices.

EOG Resources operates in a global industry influenced by geopolitical tensions, trade policies, and macroeconomic conditions. Political instability, conflicts, and economic downturns in key markets can disrupt operations, impact demand for energy products and create uncertainty in the business environment.

EOG Resources has implemented various risk management strategies to mitigate the potential impacts of these risks and challenges:

EOG maintains a diverse portfolio of assets across multiple regions, allowing it to mitigate risks associated with specific geographic areas or regulatory environments. This diversification strategy helps spread risk and minimize the impact of localized disruptions.

The company emphasizes operational efficiency, cost discipline, and continuous improvement. By optimizing its operations, EOG aims to enhance productivity, reduce costs and mitigate the effects of commodity price fluctuations.

EOG Resources is committed to responsible environmental practices and sustainability. By proactively managing ecological risks and adopting environmentally friendly technologies, the company aims to mitigate regulatory and reputational risks.

EOG maintains a solid financial position, enabling it to weather market volatility and fund strategic initiatives. The company's prudent financial management and capital allocation strategies provide a cushion against potential economic downturns and industry challenges.
China Green Agriculture, Inc., through its subsidiaries, engages in the research, development, production, and sale of various fertilizers and agricultural products in the People's Republic of China. The company operates through three segments: Jinong (Fertilizer Production); Gufeng (Fertilizer Production); and Yuxing (Agricultural Products Production). It offers humic acid-based compound, blended, organic compound, slow-release, compound, highly concentrated water-soluble, and mixed organic-inorganic compound fertilizers, as well as develops, produces, and distributes agricultural products, such as fruits, vegetables, flowers, and colored seedlings. The company markets its fertilizer products to private wholesalers and retailers of agricultural farm products. It sells its decorative flowers to end-users, such as flower shops, luxury hotels, and government agencies; fruits and vegetables to supermarkets and upscale restaurants; and seedlings to city planning departments. As of June 30, 2022, the company operated a network of 1,398 distributors covering 22 provinces, 4 autonomous regions, and 4 central government-controlled municipalities in China. It also exports its products through contracted distributors to various countries, including India and Africa. China Green Agriculture, Inc. was incorporated in 1987 and is based in Xi'an, the People's Republic of China.
First American Financial Corporation, through its subsidiaries, provides financial services. It operates through Title Insurance and Services, and Specialty Insurance segments. The Title Insurance and Services segment issues title insurance policies on residential and commercial property, as well as offers related products and services. This segment also provides closing and/or escrow services; products, services, and solutions to mitigate risk or otherwise facilitate real estate transactions; and appraisals and other valuation-related products and services, lien release and document custodial services, warehouse lending services, default-related products and services, mortgage subservicing, and related products and services, as well as banking, trust, and wealth management services. In addition, it accommodates tax-deferred exchanges of real estate; and maintains, manages, and provides access to title plant data and records. This segment offers its products through a network of direct operations and agents in 49 states and in the District of Columbia, as well as in Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, South Korea, and internationally. The Specialty Insurance segment provides home warranty products, including residential service contracts that cover residential systems, such as heating and air conditioning systems, and various appliances against failures that occur as the result of normal usage during the coverage period. This segment operates in 35 states and the District of Columbia. The company was founded in 1889 and is headquartered in Santa Ana, California.
The AZEK Company Inc. engages in manufacturing and selling of building products for residential, commercial, and industrial markets in the United States. It operates through two segments: Residential and Commercial. The Residential segment designs and manufactures engineered outdoor living products, such as decking, railing, trim and molding, siding and cladding, pergolas and cabanas, and accessories under the TimberTech, AZEK Exteriors, VERSATEX, ULTRALOX, StruXure, and INTEX brands. The Commercial segment manufactures engineered polymer materials used in various industries, including outdoor, graphic displays and signage, educational, and recreational markets, as well as the industrial and chemical industries. This segment also offers bathroom partitions, shower and dressing stalls, lockers, storage solutions, extruded plastic sheet, and non-fabricated products under the Aria, Eclipse, Hiny Hiders, TuffTec, and Duralife brands. The company was formerly known as Delaware corporation and changed its name to The AZEK Company Inc. in June 2020. The AZEK Company Inc. was incorporated in 2013 and is headquartered in Chicago, Illinois.
SEOUL, Aug. 29 (Xinhua) -- Kim Jong Un, top leader of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK), has instructed the Korean People's Army (KPA) Navy to rapidly develop its fighting capacity and make an all-out effort to get combat-ready, the official Korean Central News Agency reported Tuesday.

Kim made the instructions during his congratulatory visit to the KPA Navy Command on Sunday, one day before the country's Navy Day, in a high-profile move to celebrate the occasion and raise the morale of the country's naval force, said the report.

The top leader pointed out an imperative to expedite a substantial improvement in the modernization and fighting capacity of the KPA Navy.

"To achieve the successes in rapidly developing the naval force has become a very urgent issue," Kim was quoted as saying. 
Devon Energy Corporation is an independent oil and gas company headquartered in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. The company was incorporated in 1971 by John Nichols and his son J. Larry Nichols and later went public in August 2000. The company has since grown to be included in the S&P 500 and is one of the first energy companies to introduce resolutions requiring the company to monitor its impact on global warming. One time a major player in the global oil market, Devon has since sold off its offshore holdings in an effort to focus on US production and its transition to a lower-carbon future.

Devon Energy merged with WPX in early 2021 in an all-stock merger of equals. The new company is primarily engaged in the exploration, development, and production of oil, natural gas, and natural gas liquids in the US midwest. The company operates more than 5,100 wells in Oklahomas Delaware Basis, Eagle Ford Group, and the two locations in the Rocky Mountains. As of late 2022, the company laid claim to 1.625 million barrels of reserves including 44% petroleum, 27% natural gas liquids, and 29% natural gas. Daily production was running in the range of 300,000 BPD in petroleum liquids, 125,000 BPD in natural gas liquids, and 920 million cubic feet of natural gas.

Rick Muncrief, formally CEO of WPX, is now the head of Devon Energy. Mr. Muncrief comes to the table with more than 40 years of experience including 27 years with one of the US Big Three Oil Companies. WPX Energy (Williams Production and Exploration) brought properties in the Williston and Permian Basins to the combined company. Its proven reserves were roughly 527 million barrels of oil and equivalents. The company also owns and operates a midstream network of pipelines and storage facilities it uses to market and deliver its products.

Devon Energy Corporation has pledged to reduce its GHG impact to net zero by 2050. This will be done by a variety of methods that include improving efficiency and leakage, a reduction in flaring, and the electrification of its operations. Near-term goals include a 50% reduction in GHG by 2030 including a 65% reduction in methane release and a 100% reduction in flaring. The company is also focused on reducing its environmental impact by relying on recycled water wherever possible and plans to reduce freshwater usage by 90% in the most active areas. Total greenhouse gas emissions have been in decline since 2018 and fell 17% between 2018 and 2020 alone.
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. In addition, the company offers maintenance products, such as antifreeze and windshield washer fluids; brake drums, rotors, shoes, and pads; brake and power steering fluids, and oil and fuel additives; oil and transmission fluids; oil, cabin, air, fuel, and transmission filters; oxygen sensors; paints and accessories; refrigerants and accessories; shock absorbers and struts; spark plugs and wires; and windshield wipers. Further, it provides air fresheners, cell phone accessories, drinks and snacks, floor mats and seat covers, interior and exterior accessories, mirrors, performance products, protectants and cleaners, sealants and adhesives, steering wheel covers, stereos and radios, tools, and wash and wax products, as well as towing services. Additionally, the company provides a sales program that offers commercial credit and delivery of parts and other products; sells automotive diagnostic and repair software under the ALLDATA brand through alldata.com and alldatadiy.com; and automotive hard parts, maintenance items, accessories, and non-automotive products through autozone.com. It has stores in the United States, Mexico, and Brazil. The company was founded in 1979 and is based in Memphis, Tennessee.
Eli Lilly and Company is a US-based multinational pharmaceutical company. It is the 12th largest pharmaceutical company by revenue and has offices in 16 countries. Its medicines are sold in at least 125 countries including its 8 blockbuster drugs. The company is a member of the S&P 500 and S&P 100 indices, it brought in roughly $5.5 billion in revenue for 2021 and employs more than 35,000 people across its network of research and production facilities.

Eli Lilly and Company was founded in 1876 by Colonel Eli Lilly. The colonel, a veteran of the Civil War, had recently dissolved an unsatisfactory partnership and set on his own to produce and develop medicinal chemicals. Colonel Lilly remained as president until his death in 1898. His charge to his family, company and coworkers was to take what you find here and make it better and better. The company is well-known for many drugs, including the first mass-marketing of quinine to treat malaria.

The company brought in $4,470 in its first year and saw that figure grow 10X over the next 3. Among the many innovations during this time period is the addition of gelation coatings for pills which helped set the company up for rapid expansion. The company was incorporated in 1881 as Eli Lilly and Company issuing stock to family and friends. The 1900s brought about more change for the company, change in the form of expansion which included international markets.

Advancements during the war years included increases in efficiency due to increased automation and the development of precision technologies. Among the technologies was pill manufacturing which included injecting medicines directly into a gelation capsule. This method allowed for more exact dosing, setting the standard for modern production. The company produced capsules for itself and sold excess capacity to competitors. Other major advancements include fruit flavorings in medicine, straight-line manufacturing and a method of blueprinting manufacturing tickets to prevent errors.

The modern period saw the company grow and discover new, world-class pharmaceuticals. Today, the company is engaged in the discovery, development and marketing of human pharmaceuticals. It offers a wide range of treatments, including Prozac but is perhaps most noteworthy for its work with insulin. The company is the first to mass produce insulin and has made numerous advances in treating diabetes in the time since. While other drugs are more widely known, its diabetic drugs Basaglar, Jardience, Trulicity, Humalog and Humulin are its top-sellers and contribute the bulk of revenue and cash flow.

Along with Diabetic research, the company also focuses on Alzheimer's, Oncology, Immunology, Obesity and Pain care. At the end of 2022, the company pipeline had 23 compounds in Phase 3 clinical trials and 1 in review. There were another 18 in Phase 2 trials and more than 2 dozen in Phase 1 trials. The average cost to discover a new drug was running at $2.6 billion with a 10-year discovery-to-patient timeline.
NEW DELHI, Aug. 29 (Xinhua) -- One person was killed in the ongoing floods in India's northeastern state of Assam, officials said Tuesday.

The flood situation continued to be grim in the state's 17 districts as incessant rains over the past few days pushed water levels up in the rivers.

Floods have inundated villages, towns and farmlands in many places, forcing people to take shelter in relief camps or with relatives in safer locations.

Officials said the death was reported in Sivasagar district, about 354 km northeast of Dispur, the capital city of Assam.

According to the Assam State Disaster Management Authority (ASDMA), the floods have hit 17 districts in the state and affected 190,675 people.

The floods have inundated 522 villages and damaged over 8,086 hectares of cropland.

The local administration in the affected areas has opened 45 relief distribution centers and two relief camps for the affected people.

Authorities have asked State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) teams and other officials to work at different flood-affected areas.

The India Meteorological Department has predicted heavy rainfall in Assam, Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram, Tripura and Meghalaya until Aug. 31.

Floods are an annual occurrence in Assam during the monsoon season.

The state witnessed the first wave of flooding in June this year. 
Q Properties, a leading UAE real estate developer and subsidiary of Q Holding, has awarded a AED1.75-billion ($476 million) construction deal to Emirati group Trojan General Contracting for the first phase of its luxury villa development - Reem Hills - on Abu Dhabi's prime development Al Reem Island.

Situated at the heart of the capital, Reem Hills stands as the sole gated community on Abu Dhabi's prestigious Al Reem Island, focusing on exclusivity and well-being.

Reem Hills is an integral component of Q Properties' exclusive development portfolio, encompassing numerous residential, commercial, and retail projects currently in progress, said the developer in a statement.

As per the deal, Trojan will be responsible for constructing the fully sold out 218 luxury villas ranging from four- to seven-bedroom units and developing a 3 million sq ft of built-up area (BUA), it added.

On the contract win, Trojan General Contracting CEO Mohammed Mahmoud said: "We are delighted that Q Holding has put its trust in us to deliver the Phase 1 villas and be part of such a prestigious project."

"We are eager to work closely with their team and ensure the Reem Hills vision, which I believe represents an exciting new era for community design in the capital, comes to full fruition. Work will begin on the Phase 1 villas in September 2023," he added.
BEIJING, Aug. 29 (Xinhua) -- China's State Council has released a plan to boost the high-quality development of the Chinese-mainland part of a sci-tech innovation cooperation zone jointly developed by the southern tech hub Shenzhen and the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR).

According to the plan, the Shenzhen section of the Hetao zone for science and technology innovation cooperation will seek coordinated development with the section in the HKSAR, the two complementing each other with their respective strengths, making the cooperation zone a key engine for the high-quality development of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area.

By 2025, an efficient mechanism will be basically established to support the scientific and technological innovation cooperation between the two regions, the plan states, while the reconstruction of the Huanggang Control Point will be completed and customs clearance procedures will be realized.

The flow of factors, the chain of sci-tech innovation and the exchange of personnel between the two sections will be unimpeded, says the plan, which also expects the Shenzhen section to attract a number of lab clusters, research centers, and research and development centers of top firms, delivering key achievements through collaboration with the HKSAR.

By 2035, the Shenzhen section is expected to become a world-class research hub that enjoys a free and orderly cross-border flow of innovation factors, solidly supporting the development of the Guangzhou-Shenzhen-Hong Kong-Macao sci-tech innovation corridor.

To this end, efforts will be made to coordinate with the HKSAR on promoting global sci-tech innovation, and to build an internationally competitive industrial base for the piloting and application of scientific achievements.

The plan also pledges to establish an internationalized scientific and technological innovation mechanism, as well as a platform to pool global wisdom and boost international exchange and cooperation. 
by Martina Fuchs

BLED, Slovenia, Aug. 29 (Xinhua) -- The world needs to urgently address the current polycrisis and come together to tackle common challenges, Peter Grk, secretary general of the Bled Strategic Forum (BSF), told Xinhua on Monday, and urged a reform of the multilateral system and cooperation with China.

The 18th edition of the two-day event, titled "Solidarity for Global Security", opened on Monday in Slovenia's resort town of Bled. Since its launch in 2006, the annual event has evolved into a leading international conference in Central and South-Eastern Europe.

"There are a lot of crises in the international framework, which this current multilateral setup is not effectively addressing," Grk said.

"In this context, the Bled Strategic Forum this year will discuss and give suggestions on the multilateral global system and how it can be improved in order to efficiently address these crises, which are globally important," he said.

Grk also highlighted China's role in contributing to global security: "We are going to cooperate with all the members of the (UN) Security Council. China is one of the global leaders."

"China is a country that plays an important role in the international community. Only with cooperation and trying to find issues of common interest can we succeed in actually addressing them efficiently," he said.

"We look forward to discussing with China all the topics that will be tackled here in Bled: climate change, energy security, food security, and of course the future of the multilateral system," he said.

Asked about the BSF's top priorities in 2024, Grk said that "the quest for sustainability and the efficient fight against climate change" would "definitely" be on the table. 
[August 29, 2023] ARKPIA: Global Artists Collaborate with Korean Startup for Innovation Tweet

By converting the creations of renowned global artists into intellectual property (IP), the art brand ARKPIA engages in a variety of activities including offline exhibitions, artwork transactions, the production of art products, collaborations with brands, etc. To boost its global growth, ARKPIA is cooperating with well-known international artists and businesses. Notable partnerships include those of Florentijn Hofman, a Dutch installation artist well-known for his "The Rubber Duck Project" and Gabriel Hollington, a popular British illustrator notable for his collaboration with the fashion brand Vans. Collaboration artists also include Sarah Beetson, a British artist chosen by Saatchi Art in Australia for bright talent, and Ben Ouaniche, an internationally known Israeli visual artist with 1.9 million YouTube subscribers. ARKPIA is also working with the British illustrator Dan Woodger, who has created illustrations for brands like Pepsi, Apple, Samsung, McDonald's, and Amazon. Additionally, ARKPIA plans to enter new contracts with prominent international businesses and major performers. ARKPIA announces that its online space museum will be planned in consideration of upcoming offline exhibitions showcasing the creations and worldviews of recruited artists. "Gabriel Hollington," millennials and Generation Z's well-known artist, will feature in the first exhibition under the theme of "Sneaky Downtown." The erection of the exhibition space was planned by ARKPIA, while the technical execution was handled by Netstream. Open Worlds, Art Galleries, and Concept Halls will all feature Gabriel's humorous and vivacious works. Gabriel will reveal his inner freedom, personality, and distinct perspective, providing joy to the audience as a street artist with experience creating murals. All the exhibited artworks will be connected to blockchain and can be bought as a digital asset.



In the ever-evolving landscape of art where the boundaries are reshaped by advances in cutting-edge technology, Yohan Choi, the CEO of ARKPIA, has revealed the company's commitment to pioneering new artistic frontiers. With a strong foundation in blockchain and innovative technologies, coupled with a global reach through its own artwork-purchasing platform, ARKPIA, aims to blend its artistic creativity and artists' intellectual property to spearhead fresh ventures in the realm of art. As the technological landscape continues to reshape the art world, ARKPIA is poised to embrace these changes and push the boundaries of artistic exploration. ARKPIA Museum is supported by Japanese GameOn, and Korean Investment Partners, NEOWIZ. They carry out various activities through GameOn in Japan, including web2, web3, offline exhibitions, merchandising, and new IP initiatives, and these are in discussion to collaborate with several major international companies.

Twitter Instagram Discord ARKPIA Museum View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230829524301/en/

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[August 29, 2023] Quantic Electronics to Showcase Mission-Critical Electronics at the 2023 European Microwave Week Event Tweet

Visit Booth #328 to speak with experts about Quantic's portfolio of advanced RF & microwave solutions EAST PROVIDENCE, R.I., Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Quantic Electronics today announced that it will exhibit at the 2023 European Microwave Week (EuMW), September 17th  22nd in Berlin, Germany. Experts from Quantic and their businesses Quantic Ohmega, Quantic PMI (Planar Monolithics), Quantic Ticer, Quantic TRM, Quantic Wenzel and Quantic X-Microwave will showcase a wide range of products and solutions in Booth #328.





Visit Quantic Electronics at EuMW, Booth #328 to learn more about our portfolio of advanced RF & microwave solutions. Quantic is defining and delivering the future of mission-critical electronics with our portfolio of mission-critical RF & microwave, capacitor, resistor, magnetic and sensing products. Our reliable, off-the-shelf and purpose-built components and integrated assemblies provide customers with a quantum improvement in speed, power, and density. Visit Booth #328 to learn more about our RF & Microwave solutions, including: 3U OpenVPX SOSA-aligned card assemblies & quick-turn prototypes

20,000+ COTS RF/MW components across all businesses

Flexible RF/MW drop-in components "X-MWblocks" for rapid prototyping

Custom designed passive and active RF/MW solutions, including RF filters, multiplexers and RF switching products

Custom, high-reliability RF/MW components and subsystems

Ultra-low phase noise crystal oscillators, frequency sources, and integrated microwave assemblies to 30 GHz and beyond

Proven space-optimized RF/MW products and designs

Beamforming networks and high power products designed to AESA standards across markets

Thin film resistor foils (OhmegaPly, TCR, and TCR-EHF) for embedded mm-Wave resistors EuMW is Europe's premier Microwave, RF, Wireless and Radar event. Bringing industry and academia together, EuMW includes three cutting edge conferences, three forums and one exciting trade and technology exhibition featuring leading players from across the globe. EuMW provides access to the very latest products, research and initiatives in the microwave sector, and an opportunity for face-to-face interaction with those driving the future of microwave technology. To schedule a meeting or to learn more, contact Quantic at [email protected] About Quantic Electronics

Quantic is an electronic component company focused on defining and delivering the future of mission-critical electronics. We have over a century of combined experience as reliable problem-solvers and trusted partners in military, aerospace, industrial and commercial markets. For more information, visit www.quanticnow.com. Media Inquiry:

Bailey Williams

Marketing Director

[email protected]

www.quanticnow.com View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/quantic-electronics-to-showcase-mission-critical-electronics-at-the-2023-european-microwave-week-event-301911729.html SOURCE Quantic Electronics

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[August 28, 2023] Milwaukee Public Schools and Zurn Elkay Water Solutions Announce Multi-Year Partnership and $2.2 Million Donation as Kids Return to School Tweet

Zurn Elkay Water Solutions (NYSE: ZWS) today announced a partnership with Milwaukee Public Schools (MPS) and a $2.2 million donation of its Elkay drinking water filters to support the City of Milwaukee's and MPS's ongoing commitment to providing safer, cleaner drinking water to students, staff and community members. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230828006193/en/ As kids return to school, Zurn Elkay Chairman and CEO Todd Adams joined Starms Early Childhood kindergarteners to announce the company's new five-year partnership with Milwaukee Public Schools (MPS). The agreement includes a $2.2 million donation of Elkay drinking water filters to support the City of Milwaukee's and MPS's ongoing commitment to providing safer, cleaner drinking water to students, staff and community members. (Photo: Business Wire) In an event with kindergarten students at Starms Early Childhood Center, 2616 W. Garfield St., Mayor Cavalier Johnson, MPS Superintendent Dr. Keith P. Posley and Zurn Elkay Water Solutions Chairman and CEO Todd A. Adams celebrated the signing of a five-year support agreement between MPS and Zurn Elkay. As part of the agreement to convert all existing MPS drinking fountains and bottle filling stations to Elkay filtration, Zurn Elkay will donate to MPS up to 3,250 filters annually through the 2027-28 school year to ensure that MPS's drinking fountains and bottle filling stations stay filtered, giving students, staff and community members access to safer, cleaner water at school. "The health and safety of our studens is a top priority for Milwaukee Public Schools. The district began filtering water in our schools seven years ago," Dr. Posley said. "Zurn Elkay's generous gift to MPS will help ensure that students and staff all across the district continue to have the safest possible drinking water."



Headquartered in the heart of Milwaukee's Clean Water Technology Hub, Zurn Elkay aspires to provide the safest and most efficient water solutions to protect human health and the environment. Its Elkay drinking fountains and bottle filling stations are manufactured in Illinois, and its filters are tested and certified to NSF/ANSI 42 and 53 to reduce lead and other harmful contaminants. Since 2012, use of Elkay bottle filling stations has avoided the use of more than 76 billion single-use plastic bottles. "For kids in Milwaukee and all across the country, school buildings are more than a place for education and social development: they're a primary source of drinking water, and Zurn Elkay is here to help schools provide the cleanest, safest drinking water we can," Adams said. "As a proud, Milwaukee-based company, we're grateful that MPS has trusted Zurn Elkay with the opportunity to help ensure every MPS student, teacher and staff member has access to safer, cleaner drinking water."

In 2016, MPS voluntarily began testing drinking water in all of its facilities. Following the test results, MPS announced that all schools in the district would be provided with filtration for their water fountains. Today's announcement reflects an expansion of this commitment, with MPS using federal ESSER funding to purchase an additional 700 Elkay bottle filling stations, increasing its total count of Elkay filtered drinking fountains and bottle filling stations to more than 3,200. For photos and video from today's announcement, please visit

zurnelkay.com/press-room/press-kits. About Milwaukee Public Schools Milwaukee Public Schools is committed to accelerating student achievement, building positive relationships between youth and adults and cultivating leadership at all levels. The district's commitment to improvement continues to show results: 94 percent of proposed 2023-24 budget dollars go directly to classrooms;

MPS offers one of the most extensive Montessori programs in the country, including the only public K3 to grade 12 Montessori school in the nation; and

More than 70 MPS high school students have earned the Seal of Biliteracy, sanctioned by the State of Wisconsin, for proficiency in multiple languages. Learn more about MPS by visiting mps.milwaukee.k12.wi.us. More news is available at mpsmke.com/news. About Zurn Elkay Water Solutions Zurn Elkay Water Solutions designs, procures, manufactures and markets the industry's widest range of clean water solutions for drinking water, hygiene and sustainable water management to improve health, human safety and the environment. Headquartered in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Zurn Elkay works with customers around the globe to deliver products and systems that enhance and ensure water quality, safety, hygiene, flow control and conservation. In everything we do, we are sustainably inspired. Learn more at www.zurnelkay.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230828006193/en/

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[August 28, 2023] TONIK GROWS SHOP INSTALLMENT LOAN WITH HOME ALONG Tweet

MANILA, Philippines, Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The Philippines' Pioneering Digital Bank Tonik continues to take strides in furthering its Shop Installment Loan through its partnership with trusted retailer, Home Along. Since the onset of 2022, Tonik's Shop Installment Loan has been accessible across 70% of Home Along retail outlets, a strategic initiative that has served as bank's springboard into in-store consumer financing. With Tonik gearing towards full-scale mode, the partnership has proven to be beneficial in bringing the bank closer to its vision of achieving financial inclusivity to the underserved segments. "Our collaboration with Home Along has proven mutually advantageous, enhancing not only our operational success but also catering to customers in search of enhanced financing alternatives withi the market," said Greg Krasnov, Founder of Tonik Bank.



To date, Tonik Digital Bank has facilitated thousands of loans across Home Along's extensive retail network in Luzon. The accomplishment underscores the bank's unwavering commitment to enriching in-store financing choices, characterized by affordable monthly installments, minimal requirements, and a swift 15-minute approval process all in one app. Further, Tonik has always been grateful for the trust that Home Along gave to the bank specifically during its pilot stages. Reflecting on the synergy between the two entities, Mr. Alvin Tsoi, Owner of Home Along remarked, "Being able to support Tonik in its thrust of bringing the best customer experience to customers through better financing options perfectly aligns with our mission."

Tsoi adds, "Our collaboration stands as a testament to our shared dedication to world-class customer care, and we look forward to nurturing and expanding this partnership in the years ahead." Tonik and Home Along is looking forward to solidifying their partnership by closing 2023 with 100% store coverage. About Tonik Tonik is the first digital-only neobank in the Philippines, providing loan, deposit, and payment products to consumers on a highly secure digital banking platform. The neobank operates based on the first digital bank license issued by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP). Tonik is led by a team of retail finance veterans who have previously built and scaled multiple retail banks and fintechs across global emerging markets. It is backed by top international investors, including Sequoia India, Point72 Ventures, and Mizuho Bank. Tonik's tech stack is integrated in partnership with world-class banktech vendors including Mastercard, Finastra, Amazon Web Services, Google, Genesys and Daon. Tonik operates out of hubs in Singapore (HQ), Manila, and Chennai. View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/apac/news-releases/tonik-grows-shop-installment-loan-with-home-along-301911830.html SOURCE Tonik Digital Bank, Inc.

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[August 28, 2023] Bracell Receives Excellence Award at Agrisummit 2023 for Advancing ESG Goals through GIS Innovations Tweet

SINGAPORE, Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Bracell, a leading global producer of dissolving pulp, has been recognised with the prestigious Excellence Award at Agrisummit 2023, a renowned event focusing on innovation and geotechnology in the Brazilian agribusiness sector. The sixth edition of the summit celebrated sustainability solutions and best practices that contribute significantly to the advancement of the agricultural industry. During the Agrisummit 2023, Bracell, a member of the RGE group of companies founded by Sukanto Tanoto, was commended for its exceptional utilisation of Geographic Information System (GIS) in promoting Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) objectives. The company's outstanding efforts in driving sustainability initiatives in the agribusiness sector through GIS tools were acknowledged by industry peers and experts. At the event, Bracell presented its ground-breaking Carbon Monitoring project, which was developed using cutting-edge remote sensing techniques and ESRI GIS tools. The project aimed to comprehensively map the successional stages of native vegetation areas owned by Bracell and its partners. By doin so, Bracell effectively calculated carbon removal and storage levels, leading to the creation of valuable data and query tools for corporate sustainability and environmental reporting. These insights have proved instrumental in supporting informed decision-making and setting ambitious environmental goals.



"We are absolutely thrilled by this remarkable achievement, as our mission revolves around improving people's lives through sustainable resource development," said Jeanderlon Veiga, Geoprocessing Analyst at Bracell SP. "As one of the world's largest producers of dissolving pulp, our 5Cs business philosophy underpins everything we do, ensuring that our actions benefit the community, country, climate, customers, and, ultimately, the company. We are extremely proud of the collaborative efforts of our geoprocessing/remote sensing department and sustainability team. Their work enables us to efficiently and responsibly manage and utilise our resources." Agrisummit is an initiative hosted by Imagem Geosistemas, the official distributor of ESRI, the United States' leading Geographic Information Systems (GIS) provider. The event brought together key players from the Sugar and Ethanol, Forestry, and Grain sectors, who showcased successful case studies of leveraging GIS, Analytics, and A.I. technologies to enhance their operational efficiency and sustainability practices.

Bracell's recognition with the Excellence Award reaffirms its commitment to pioneering sustainable practices. Through ongoing innovations and a dedication to environmental stewardship, the company continues to set the bar high for sustainable resource management. View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/apac/news-releases/bracell-receives-excellence-award-at-agrisummit-2023-for-advancing-esg-goals-through-gis-innovations-301911856.html SOURCE RGE group of companies

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[August 29, 2023] Clarity AI Integrates Sustainability Data into SimCorp to Drive Impact Investing and Regulatory Alignment Tweet

Global sustainability technology company, Clarity AI, announces the integration of its data offering into SimCorp's investment management platform. This partnership with SimCorp, the world's leading provider of investment management solutions, provides institutional investors with access to AI-powered datasets allowing them to effectively align with the EU sustainable finance regulations and execute on impact investing strategies. The European Union is at the forefront of sustainable finance, with 20% of the region's fund assets classified as sustainable. Additionally, the EU accounts for 83% of global assets invested in sustainable funds, according to the 2022 Global Sustainable Fund Flows report. Despite stringent regulations like the Sustainable Finance Disclosure Regulation (SFDR) and the EU Taxonomy designed to combat greenwashing and ensure greater transparency, challenges around data availability, reliability, and comparability persist. These challenges put institutional investors at risk of using inaccurate or outdated company evaluations, thereby exposing them to potential reputational and investment risks. "Amid the rapid evolution and diversification of regulatory frameworks and increasing demand for access to high quality, accurate, timely sustainability data, Clarity AI stands out by delivering a flexible, and scalable solution. Our approach is comprehensive, providing the required data, methodologies, and tools to comply with all regulatory requirements," said David Silver, Head of Solutions at Clarity AI. "We are thrilled to partner with SimCorp to expand the use of reliable, accurate data to meet regulatory requirements and drive more capital into sustainable finance without adding unnecessary complexity." "With Clarity AI's data seamlessly integrated into SimCorp's investment management platform, sustainability analysis becomes an integral part of the complete end-to-end investment process. Our mutual clients benefit from advanced process automation, rigorous control checks of their sustainability-related policies, and effortless access to ESG analytics," said Carl Balslev Clausen, Director and Hed of ESG Product Management at SimCorp.



Clarity AI's award-winning solutions for SFDR and EU Taxonomy are based on methodologies built from the ground up, that leverage advanced technology to streamline data collection and processing and reduce errors associated with manual work. "Through the use of AI-powered reliability checks, trained and supervised by a global team of data science and sustainability experts, we ensure our data is of the highest quality and consistent throughout all areas of sustainability, such as regulatory compliance or impact measurement," said Silver.

The adoption of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) framework has become a crucial tool to report on impact, develop engagement strategies, or create new revenue opportunities through thematic funds, for example. A recent survey by BNP Paribas Asset Management found that more than 50% of investors are currently using or are planning to use thematic investing, and 70% of thematic investors plan to increase their focus over the next three years. In Europe, one of the main drivers of this trend is being able to market products as Article 8 or Article 9 under SFDR. To meet this growing demand, SimCorp's investment management platform offers its users Clarity AI's SDGs dataset with the ability to customize scores based on intended sustainability outcomes. Clarity AI analyzes more than 70,000 companies, 420,000 funds, 201 countries, and 199 local governments, which represents more breadth than any other player in the market. "Institutional investors are increasingly prioritizing their ability to accurately measure and oversee the societal effects of their investments. Aligning with the SDGs has now become an established norm within the industry. Clarity AI's extensive SDG dataset brings a high level of completeness, and we are thrilled to seamlessly integrate it into our ESG and sustainable investment solutions. This integration offers SimCorp clients effortless access to top-quality data, further enhancing their investment decisions," said Balslev Clausen. About Clarity AI Clarity AI is a sustainability technology platform that uses machine learning and big data to deliver environmental and social insights to investors, organizations, and consumers. Clarity AI's capabilities are an essential tool for end-to-end sustainability analysis related to investing, corporate research, benchmarking, consumer e-commerce, and regulatory reporting. As of June 2023, Clarity AI's platform analyzes more than 70,000 companies, 420,000 funds, 201 countries, and 199 local governments, which represents more breadth than any other player in the market. One way Clarity AI delivers on its mission to bring societal impact to markets is by ensuring its capabilities are delivered directly into clients' workflows through integrations with partners like SimCorp. Additionally, Clarity AI's sustainability insights reach more than 150 million consumers across more than 400,000 merchants. Clarity AI has offices in North America, Europe, and the Middle East, and its client network manages tens of trillions in assets and includes companies like Invesco, Nordea, BlackRock, Santander, Wellington, and BNP Paribas. About SimCorp SimCorp offers industry-leading, integrated investment management solutions. Our platform and ecosystem, comprising partners, services, and third-party connectivity empowers us to provide 40% of the world's top 100 financial companies with the efficiency and flexibility needed to succeed. With over 25 offices around the world, and more than 2,450 employees, we are a truly global, collaborative team that connects every continent and industry seamlessly. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230829994460/en/

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[August 29, 2023] Workhuman Adds Hundreds of Thousands of Activities, Travel, and Accommodation Options to World Class Store with In-Store Booking Functionality Tweet

Workhuman, the company revolutionizing how employees celebrate, connect with, and appreciate each other in the workplace, has added In-Store Booking functionality to its world class Store. Employees now have access to hundreds of thousands of additional activity, travel, and accommodation options as part of the industry's most expansive catalog of experiences, all bookable with points on its platform. "Workhuman's Experiences offering provides an awesome new element to their already impressive Store, as it enables employees to easily book travel, adventures, tours, and activities using their recognition rewards through Michelin's WeCare program. By using points they earned here through their contributions to the organization, our employees are able to redeem their points on engaging experiences for themselves, family or friends," said Leslie Schall, Director of Employee Engagement, Experience, and Purpose at Michelin. "Right after Experiences launched, I used it to book a 'Harley electronic trike motorcycle' tour during an upcoming family vacation in Prague. Now my entire family has this amazing memory we're going to cherish forever, and it was because of recognition from my colleagues. Experiences is going to help our employees turn work achievements into these beautiful, exciting moments, and we're very excited about the impact of this connection and the stories we'll hear." Workhuman's Store takes the same human-first approach as its Social Recognition solution. The company understands that the reward redemption experience is critical for the success of any recognition program as it reinforces the original recognition moment and amplifies the sense of engagement and goodwill that the employee feels toward their company. Workhuman has made significant investments over the years to launch the broadest offering of Travel and Experiences with gift card partners like Virgin Experiences, Global Experiences,Royal Caribbean, Hotels.com, and many more. The addition of In-Store Booking functionality takes this to the next level, ensuring every employee is able to redeem for an experience that feels exciting to them, and that makes them feel seen and recognized, no matter point levels.



"Workhuman has always kept our ears close to the ground and driven our Store strategy based on the pulse of the marketplace. We know that people derive significant enjoyment from experiences and over the years we have evolved in the ways we bring this category to our platform," said Sarah Whitman, Workhuman SVP, E-commerce. "Our data has shown that people's desire to travel and create memories has been reinvigorated as we've emerged from the global pandemic. Our expanded Experiences offering creates endless new opportunities for employees to travel and experience new things, driving personal growth and even greater and lasting connections to their colleagues that helped make those experiences and memories possible." Workhuman has built a truly innovative and deep team dedicated to sourcing merchandise and gift cards across the globe in more than 65 categories. Globally, the company maintains a catalogue of roughly 400,000 merchandise items across more than 60 countries and offers thousands of gift cards across more than 130 countries, with choices that include access to hundreds of thousands of merchandise brands, charities, and travel experience options. Workhuman has built its Store experience from the ground up and has scaled over the years to support orders placed every few seconds by its approx. 7M employees across the globe.

Through the company's Store, employees are able to book their activity, hotel, car rental and, when available, flights, all in the same order, keeping their entire travel itinerary together and avoiding the hassle of tracking multiple confirmation emails from separate travel partners. From walking tours to national park passes to private yacht rentals, Workhuman's full Experiences offering will cater to users globally and at virtually every point and desired activity level. In-Store Booking is now available for more than 2 million users across 10 countries, including the US, India, Mexico, and UK. In addition to English, the booking experience and customer service support is available in French, Latin American Spanish, European Spanish, Brazilian Portuguese and Japanese. We will continue to roll out to additional customers and markets with enhanced capabilities throughout the year. For more information about Workhuman's Store, please visit: www.workhuman.com/reward/store. To learn more about how Workhuman's employee recognition solution can help reduce turnover, improve engagement and productivity, and elevate DE&I efforts, please visit: www.workhuman.com/solutions/social-recognition/. About Workhuman: Workhuman is helping companies meet today's biggest human capital challenges - including unprecedented turnover, employee engagement, hybrid work environments, and DEI - through the Workhuman Cloud, a secure SaaS platform that provides the industry's best-in-class Social Recognition solution. As the leading global provider of technology solutions, analytics, expertise, and services helping organizations of all sizes build and foster workplace cultures powered by employee recognition and crowdsourced feedback, Workhuman is revolutionizing the way employees celebrate, connect with, and appreciate each other in the workplace. Combined with unmatched data through iQ, we empower HR and business leaders with proactive insight to understand issues as they develop and tools to help them make the right decisions to align business objectives and culture to deliver immediate impact. And, with world-class award redemption from our proprietary global e-commerce network, Workhuman is committed to building more connected human-centered workplaces that recognize the value and potential of each and every employee. For more than 20 years, Workhuman has been pioneering the human workplace by disrupting legacy and obsolete HR approaches to improve the employee experience at work, with solutions that engage with approx. seven million customer employees in 30+ languages, in 180 countries, generating 100 million instances of human connection. With dual headquarters in Dublin, Ireland and Framingham, Massachusetts, deploys solutions and services at scale and is committed to helping companies improve returns on their most important investment- their people. For more information, please visit www.workhuman.com View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230829539399/en/

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[August 29, 2023]

Xinhua Silk Road: 2023 China-SCO International Logistics Round Table held in Lianyungang to deepen interconnectivity among SCO countries

BEIJING, Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The 2023 China-Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) International Logistics Round Table (????????????? ??????? ???? ?? ????????? ?????-??? 2023) kicked off on August 16 in Lianyungang, a port city in east China's Jiangsu Province.

Themed on "Strengthening cooperation among SCO countries, co-building the new Eurasian land&sea transport corridor", the three-day roundtable conference, co-hosted by Lianyungang Municipal People's Government and the SCO Secretariat, is aimed at further deepening logistics and industrial connection and fostering new growth points of cooperation among SCO countries.

At the conference, Sohail Khan, deputy secretary-general of the SCO, Fang Wei, vice governor of Jiangsu Province, and Ma Shiguang, Party chief of Lianyungang, delivered speeches respectively.

Officials from SCO member countries and observer countries, and representatives of relevant logistics alliances and institutions attended the event and reached consensus on cooperation in multple fields, such as transport, logistics, foreign trade and digital economy.







This year marks the 10th anniversary of the Belt and Road Initiative. As a strong fulcrum of the Belt and Road cooperation and the important node city in the New Eurasian Land Bridge economic corridor, Lianyungang takes the role of a two-way opening window and a rail-sea transportation hub.

In recent years, Lianyungang has actively promoted the construction of benchmarking demonstration projects under the Belt and Road Initiative, such as the Lianyungang China-Kazakhstan Logistics Cooperation Base and the SCO (Lianyungang) International Logistics Park, all of which have delivered fruitful results.

It is learned that the SCO (Lianyungang) International Logistics Park opened its first China- Kyrgyzstan -Uzbekistan route in October last year, which embarked on a new journey of bridging China's trade with other SCO members. As of July this year, a total of 1,182 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) of cargo were transported after the route of the park launched.

Lianyungang has successfully held two sessions of SCO International Round Table in 2019 and 2021, making the event an important exchange platform between Lianyungang and SCO members.

Original link: https://en.imsilkroad.com/p/335667.html

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/xinhua-silk-road-2023-china-sco-international-logistics-round-table-held-in-lianyungang-to-deepen-interconnectivity-among-sco-countries-301912191.html
[August 29, 2023] Trina Solar Exchange MoU with Malaysia's GSPARX To Promote Clean Energy and Sustainability Tweet

This MoU will play an important role in promoting solar energy solutions in Malaysia , in line with objective of the National Energy Transition Roadmap introduced in July 2023

Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB), the leading Malaysian utility company in Asia , through its wholly owned subsidiary, GSPARX Sdn. Bhd. (GSPARX Malaysia) will elevate its position as a significant contributor to the Malaysia's energy transition. KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia, Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Trina Solar, the leading global PV and smart energy total solutions provider, has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with GSPARX Sdn. Bhd, Malaysia (GSPARX, Malaysia) a wholly-owned subsidiary of Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB), to work together in developing a robust sustainable energy sector in Malaysia. Through the MoU, GSPARX, Malaysia and Trina Solar have agreed to establish a working committee that will help drive sustainability initiatives and promote the adoption of renewable energy in the country. Additionally, the parties have agreed to do joint marketing and work collaboratively to explore and unlock new business opportunities, so as to develop Malaysia's solar photovoltaic market. Elva Wang, Head of Southeast Asia at Trina Solar says: "We have had a longstanding relationship with GSPARX, Malaysia as its solar module supplier for rooftop solar business in Malaysia since 2019. This agreement further strengthens and expands our relationship on a strategic and working level. We are focusing on securing business opportunities for rooftop, floating and grounded-mounted systems, for our mutual benefit and helping Malaysia move towards a green net-zero future." "Under this MoU, Trina Solar will share its international knowledge and technical expertise with GSPARX, Malaysia with regards to smart grid solutions, energy storage systems, etc.This co-operation will enable GSPARX, Malaysia to strengthen its technical in-house capabilities and help, for example, navigate technical challenges in solar rooftop projects," Wang adds.



The MOU Exchange ceremony took place in Kuala Lumpur and was witnessed by: YB Tuan Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad , Minister for Natural Resources, Environment & Climate Change (NRECC), Malaysia ;

Dato' Indera Ir. Baharin Din, President/Chief Executive Officer, TNB;

Kamal Arifin A. Rahman , Chief Retail Officer, TNB;

Mohd Zarihi Mohd Hashim, Chief New Energy Officer, TNB; and

Leo Pui Yong, Chief Sustainability Officer, TNB,

About GSPARX GSPARX Sdn. Bhd. (www.gsparx.com) is a wholly owned subsidiary of Tenaga Nasional Berhad offering rooftop solar PV solutions to retail customers. Established in January 2018, GSPARX currently has a total gross portfolio of 298 MW in Peninsular Malaysia comprising rooftop solar PV systems and floating solar PV systems. With a vision of TNB net zero carbon emissions by 2050, GSPARX, as a special vehicle of TNB, is committed to providing rooftop solar solutions at zero capital to customers. (T&Cs applied) For more information, please visit www.gsparx.com About Trina Solar Founded in 1997, Trina Solar is the world leading PV and smart energy total solutions provider. The company engages in PV products R&D, manufacture, and sales; PV projects development, EPC, O&M; smart micro-grid and multi-energy complementary systems development and sales, as well as energy cloud-platform operation. In 2018, Trina Solar launched its Energy IoT brand, established the Trina Energy IoT Industrial Development Alliance together with leading enterprises and research institutes in China and around the world and founded the New Energy IoT Industrial Innovation Centre. With these actions, Trina Solar is committed to working with its partners to build the energy IoT ecosystem and develop an innovation platform to explore New Energy IoT, as it strives to be a leader in global intelligent energy. In June 2020, Trina Solar listed on the STAR Market of Shanghai Stock Exchange. For more information, please visit www.trinasolar.com View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/apac/news-releases/trina-solar-exchange-mou-with-malaysias-gsparx-to-promote-clean-energy-and-sustainability-301912233.html SOURCE Trina Solar Energy Development Pte. Ltd.

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[August 29, 2023] Trina Solar Exhibiting At ASEAN Sustainable Energy Week Tweet

BANGKOK, Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Trina Solar, the leading global PV and smart energy total solution provider, will be exhibiting at ASEAN Sustainable Energy Week. Trina Solar will be promoting its 210mm Vertex module series which includes small, medium and large-format n-type modules, covering the entire power range of 400W-500W-600W-700W+. Vertex 210mm modules have solar cells made using non-destructive cutting technology. The module's surface area is maximized using high-density interconnection, while multi-busbar (MBB) technology allows for more light to be absorbed into the module. Trina Solar is famous for leading the standardization of module size in the industry to a 2384x1134mm format. This format size, referred to colloquially as 'golden size' modules, helps to boost performance dramatically. It also reduces balance of system costs (BOS) and levelized cost of electricity (LCOE) through running longer electrical strings and fully optimised tracker lengths. . Trina Solar is unique in the solar industry in being able to provide fully integrated solutions from a one stop shop and accordingly will be exhibiting its second-generation Vanguard 1P single axis tracker and vertically integrated Trina Storage Elementa (modular, flexible and scalable system for utiliy applications and microgrids) at the show. Trina is the only battery cell manufacturer with a dedicated focus on the Utility Power Plant segment, and with a vertically integrated 8GWh annual in house cell production capacity it enables our customers to navigate their prolonged execution timescales for their storage projects with more confidence.



Thailand is Southeast Asia's second-largest solar energy market. The International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) has stated that installed solar energy capacity, at the end of 2022, was 3.07GW. Under Thailand's Power Development Plan, the country aims to have 15.6GW of solar energy capacity by 2036. Thailand has also pledged at the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP26) in Glasgow in 2021 that the country would reach net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2065.

Trina Solar is most active in Thailand with utility-scale, as well as commercial and industrial (C&I) solar projects. For instance, the 8MW Siam Tara Floating Solar Project in Prachinburi province, one of the largest floating solar projects in Thailand, used the Vertex modules in 2021. The 810KW Evershining Ingredient Power Station Project located in Samutsongkram selected Vertex 650W modules for the factory rooftop installation in 2022. This represented the first project for such high power modules to be installed in C&I segment in Thailand. Trina Solar is a major exhibitor at ASEAN Sustainable Energy Week, which is being held from 30 August to 1 September, at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Centre in Bangkok. Visit Trina Solar at booth F19. About Trina Solar (688599.SH) Founded in 1997, Trina Solar is the world leading PV and smart energy total solutions provider. The company engages in PV products R&D, manufacture and sales; PV projects development, EPC, O&M; smart micro-grid and multi-energy complementary systems development and sales, as well as energy cloud-platform operation. In 2018, Trina Solar launched its Energy IoT brand, established the Trina Energy IoT Industrial Development Alliance together with leading enterprises and research institutes in China and around the world, and founded the New Energy IoT Industrial Innovation Centre. With these actions, Trina Solar is committed to working with its partners to build the energy IoT ecosystem and develop an innovation platform to explore New Energy IoT, as it strives to be a leader in global intelligent energy. In June 2020, Trina Solar listed on the STAR Market of Shanghai Stock Exchange. For more information, please visit www.trinasolar.com. View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/apac/news-releases/trina-solar-exhibiting-at-asean-sustainable-energy-week-301912435.html SOURCE Trina Solar Energy Development Pte. Ltd.

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BEIJING, Aug. 29 (Xinhua) -- China's National Meteorological Center on Tuesday renewed a blue alert for rainstorms as heavy downpours are expected to lash multiple regions of the country.

From 8 a.m. Tuesday to 8 a.m. Wednesday, heavy downpours and rainstorms are forecast to hit regions such as Heilongjiang, Jilin, Jiangsu, Fujian, Guangdong, Hainan, Yunnan, Sichuan and Taiwan Island, according to the center.

Some parts of these regions are forecast to experience heavy rainfall, with maximum hourly precipitation surpassing 60 millimeters, accompanied by thunderstorms, gales and hail, the center said.

It has advised local governments and residents to take appropriate precautions. Schools and kindergartens have been asked to ensure the safety of children, while drivers have been advised to remain alert and cautious due to potential road waterlogging and traffic jams.

China has a four-tier weather warning system, with red representing the most severe warning, followed by orange, yellow and blue. 
[August 29, 2023] Medisca Celebrates 5-Year Partnership to Increase Access to Resources for Chronic Pain Management Tweet

In 2018, Medisca, a global leader in pharmaceutical compounding and personalized medicine, partnered with the Universite Laval Faculty of Medicine located in Quebec, Canada. The commitment included funding the establishment of a Chair in Educational Leadership in Chronic Pain Treatment, donating $500,000 to the initiative. Five years later, Medisca is a proud founding partner of the collaborative success of the Universite Laval's Chair in Educational Leadership in Chronic Pain Treatment-Medisca, Dr. Anne Marie Pinard, MD FRCPC, M.(Ed.), and the Quebec Pain Research Network. Marking the success of this multi-year initiative was the development and launch of the "My Pain Management" Web Portal in March 2021 that houses over 280 validated resources for patients, caregivers, and healthcare providers. In November 2022, the foundation also launched "Programme Agir pour moi", an 8-week self-management program for patients experiencing chronic pain, and developed over 40 continuing education trainings for healthcare providers. Both additions were implemented in alignment with the Quebec Ministry of Health and Social Services' new Action Plan for Chronic Pain Management that launched in early 2023. "Every week, front-line healthcare professionals call me for advice on pain management. Offering a rich portal of free, expert-validated resources for both patients and professionals is an achievement I'm very proud of, and one that will be very useful in the field," says Dr. Anne Marie Pinard, holder of the Universite Laval's Chair in Educational Leadership in Chronic Pain Treatment-edisca. "Medisca saw the value in our mission and we are incredibly grateful for their support in funding this important initiative," continued Dr. Pinard.



For over 30 years, Medisca has been a leader in the pharmaceutical compounding space, contributing to the evolution of personalized medicine and better patient care. "Our mission is founded on caring about people and our contribution to healthcare would not be where it is today without partnering with institutions, such as the Universite Laval, that shares this common mission" said Tony Dos Santos, President and Founder of Medisca. "The work of Dr. Anne Marie Pinard and her team have created heightened awareness about personalized wellness that will change how chronic pain is managed. They have made impressive strides in the last five years to empower patients, physicians, and pharmacists through education - and we know it is only the beginning for them," continued Dos Santos. Medisca is proud to be a founding sponsor that supported the development of the "My Pain Management" Web Portal and looks forward to exploring future collaboration opportunities with the Universite Laval and Dr. Pinard.

About Medisca Medisca is a global corporation with locations throughout North America, Australia, and Europe, that contributes to healthcare by leveraging strong partnerships that deliver customized solutions with an unwavering commitment to quality and innovation. Backed by 30+ years and a strong foundation in pharmaceutical compounding supply, Medisca is a business-to-business company that delivers comprehensive offerings by providing value, consistency, responsiveness, and loyalty. As Partners in Wellness, Medisca offers an unfailing devotion to improving lives across a multitude of needs and people. For more information visit www.medisca.com and follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230829903890/en/

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[August 29, 2023] MachTen, Inc. Reports Results for the Second Quarter 2023 Tweet

TRAVERSE CITY, Mich., Aug. 29, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- MachTen, Inc. (MACT) (OTC: MACT) today reported its operating results for the quarter ended June 30, 2023.

Financial Highlights (In thousands) Three Months Ended June 30,

2023 June 30,

2022 Regulated revenue $ 3,035 $ 3,069 Non-regulated revenue $ 950 $ 885 Operating profit $ 1,435 $ 1,478 Net income $ 1,060 $ 1,053

Revenue

Regulated revenue declined to $3.04 million in the 2nd quarter of 2023 from $3.07 million in the same period last year, primarily attributable to the elimination of a Michigan Universal Service Fund (USF) program. As a result of this programs elimination in mid-2022, intrastate access and USF revenue declined to $18,000 in the 2nd quarter, compared to $91,000 in the prior year quarter. Intrastate USF revenue totaled $292,000 for the full year 2022, down from $374,000 in 2021. The majority of regulated revenue is generated from participation in the FCCs Alternative Connect America Model (A-CAM) program funded by federal USF. ACAM revenues were approximately $2.2 million in the 2nd quarter, consistent with the prior year. Since inception of the program in 2017, ACAM revenues have been approximately $8.7 million on an annual basis. The FCC recently announced the exploration of an Enhanced ACAM that may increase annual revenue starting in January 2024, with an extension of the program through 2038. Enhanced ACAM would require a commitment to provide significantly faster broadband speeds to approximately 12,400 locations in the companys incumbent local exchange network. The company currently serves 3,900 access lines in the regulated network. Non-regulated revenue increased to $950,000 in the 2nd quarter of 2023, up from $885,000 in the prior year. The increase is primarily attributable to new broadband internet customers in competitive markets outside the incumbent network. In the last two years, MachTen has invested approximately $6 million in constructing fiber optic facilities that pass more than 5,000 commercial and residential locations. As of June 30, 2023, approximately 600 of these locations have signed contracts for service. Expenses The cost of revenue for the 2nd quarter of 2023 increased to $1.33 million from $1.28 million in the prior year, primarily attributable to additional staffing, sales and marketing expense. General and administrative costs were unchanged, and depreciation expense was also relatively consistent with the prior year period. Balance Sheet As of June 30, 2023, cash and cash equivalents were $2.44 million, compared with $1.2 million as of December 31, 2022. As of June 30, 2023, shareholders equity was $22.3 million, compared with $17.5 million as of December 31, 2022. Spin-Off from LICT Corporation It is expected that LICT Corporation will complete the distribution of 81% of MachTen, Inc. on Thursday, August 31, 2023. LICT shareholders will receive 150 shares of MACT for every 1 share of LICT. Following the distribution, MACT will have 3,172,407 shares outstanding. As part of the spin-off, MachTen is expected to make a distribution of $15 million to LICT. This will be recognized as a dividend payable on the balance sheet. MachTen Chief Executive Officer Dan Miller will host a conference call for shareholders at 4:30 PM ET on Tuesday, August 29 to discuss 2nd quarter results. Dial-in (906) 639-5050. Participant code: 816300. About MachTen, Inc. MachTen is a holding company for Upper Peninsula Telephone Company (UPTC), Michigan Central Broadband Company (MCBC), and Alpha Communications. MachTens subsidiaries provide regulated and unregulated broadband internet access and communications services, including voice, video, home automation and managed hosting services. Investors should refer to our 10-Q and other filings that have been posted to www.machteninc.com CAUTIONARY STATEMENT REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS Our disclosure and analysis in this press release, which do not present historical information, contain forward-looking statements within the meaning of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements convey our current expectations or forecasts of future events. You can identify these statements because they do not relate strictly to historical or current facts. They use words such as anticipate, estimate, expect, project, intend, plan, believe, and other words and terms of similar meaning. They also appear in any discussion of future operating or financial performance. In particular, these include statements relating to future actions, future performance of our products, expenses, the outcome of any legal proceedings, and financial results. Although we believe that we are basing our expectations and beliefs on reasonable assumptions within the bounds of what we currently know about our business and operations, the economy, and other conditions, there can be no assurance that our actual results will not differ materially from what we expect or believe. Therefore, you should proceed with caution in relying on any of these forward-looking statements. They are neither statements of historical fact nor guarantees or assurances of future performance. Forward-looking statements involve a number of known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other important factors, some of which are listed below, that are difficult to predict and could cause actual results and outcomes to differ materially from any future results or outcomes expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Some of the factors that may cause our actual results to differ from our expectations include risks associated with the duration and scope of the ongoing coronavirus pandemic resulting in volatile market conditions, a decline in the securities markets that adversely affect our assets under management, negative performance of our products, the failure to perform as required under our investment management agreements, and a general downturn in the economy that negatively impacts our operations. We also direct your attention to the more specific discussions of these and other risks, uncertainties and other important factors contained in our Annual Report and other public filings. Other factors that could cause our actual results to differ may emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for us to predict all of them. We do not undertake to update publicly any forward-looking statements if we subsequently learn that we are unlikely to achieve our expectations whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise, except as may be required by law.

MachTen, Inc. and Subsidiaries Condensed Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition (in thousands, except per share data) June 30, December 31, 2023 2022 (Unaudited) (Audited) Assets Cash and cash equivalents $ 2,443 $ 1,202 Accounts receivable 923 868 Materials and supplies 2,033 1,408 Other current assets 537 507 Current assets $ 5,936 $ 3,985 Property, plant and equipment, net 22,051 20,818 Right-of-use assets, net 702 747 Goodwill 100 100 Other noncurrent assets 70 70 Total assets $ 28,859 $ 25,720 Liabilities and Shareholders' Equity Current liabilities: Trade accounts payable $ 531 $ 3,362 Accrued liabilities 2,362 1,157 Current operating lease liability 77 74 Total current liabilities 2,970 4,593 Deferred income taxes 2,718 2,726 Long term operating lease liability 671 710 Asset retirement obligations 142 136 Other noncurrent liabilities 26 26 Total liabilities 6,527 8,191 Shareholders' equity Additional paid-in capital 2,800 Retained earnings 19,532 17,529 Total shareholders' equity 22,332 17,529 Total liabilities and shareholders' equity $ 28,859 $ 25,720 Shares outstanding 100 100





Contact: Dan Miller Chief Executive Officer

(914) 921-5193 For further information please visit www.machteninc.com





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[August 29, 2023] TCL RayNeo Announces Remarkable Advancements in TCL RayNeo X2 Augmented Reality Glasses and Unveils Premium XR Glasses Tweet

The enhancements bring forth an elevated, user-friendly wearable AR encounter, seamlessly woven into users' professional, personal, and recreational scenarios SHENZHEN, China, Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- TCL RayNeo (RayNeo), an industry leader in consumer-level augmented reality (AR) technology innovation, has announced a host of impressive upgrades to TCL RayNeo X2, the world's first binocular full-color, Micro-LED optical waveguide AR glasses. Following TCL RayNeo X2's remarkable debut earlier this year, the enhancements are set to deliver an even more intuitive and comfortable wearable AR experience that seamlessly integrates into users' everyday lives. Pioneering AR display effects The much-improved TCL RayNeo X2 further advances augmented reality display technologies. As the industry pioneer to achieve binocular full-color display through Micro-LED optical waveguide solutions, these groundbreaking AR glasses now realize an exceptional image brightness of over 1,000 nits. This significant upgrade ensures seamless visibility in both outdoor and indoor environments. Accompanied by a sleek lens shade that counters intense light, these glasses deliver vivid and clear augmented reality visuals even under direct sunlight. Ergonomic enhancements, including an adjustable soft cushion nose pad and well-balanced weight, allow for more comfortable and enjoyable prolonged wearing that empowers users to explore freely and with ease. Harmonizing physical and digital realms Powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2 platform, TCL RayNeo X2 boasts significant software enhancements with a variety of potent features joining the lineup. The Nearby Navigation function searches locations based on voice commands and directs users with floating arrows right in front of their eyes. From bustling cityscapes to sprawling airports, RayNeo X2 makes journeys smoother and more intuitive. Real-time translation has been enhanced by advanced facial-tracking with subtitles hovering near the speaker's face that can foster more in-depth and detailed conversations during international business meetings and travel advetures.



Interaction reaches new heights with a revamped, intuitive user interface and ultra-responsive touch temples, further elevating the user experience. Moreover, the RayNeo Ring, linked to the glasses via Bluetooth, lets users navigate menus and content with its touchpad, eliminating the need to touch the temples. This provides an added layer of convenience and frees up wearers' hands. Heightened audiovisual enjoyment with TCL NXTWEAR S+

RayNeo is also excited to introduce the TCL NXTWEAR S+, the newest, premium addition to its coveted XR glasses series. TCL NXTWEAR S+ features an expansive field of view (FOV) of 49 degrees with dual Full HD Micro OLED flagship displays, creating the equivalent of a 215-inch giant screen seen at 6 meters away. A blazing-fast 120Hz refresh rate brings a silky-smooth gaming experience, ideal for console gaming enthusiasts seeking the ultimate thrill. Reduced distortion and enhanced edge sharpness combine to ensure crystal-clear visual clarity. The redesigned cushion nose pad and RayNeo's exclusive "whisper mode" technology that minimize sound leakage ensure comfortable, private viewing everywhere you go. Elevating the XR experience to a new level, global users can now access convenient online prescription lens ordering that is tailored for TCL NXTWEAR S and TCL NXTWEAR S+ glasses. In a collaboration with Lensology, RayNeo presents a personalized and budget-friendly magnetic corrective lens solution, complemented with worldwide shipping. Availability TCL RayNeo X2 will commercially launch in China with a limited release in the coming weeks, followed by a global launch soon later.*

with a limited release in the coming weeks, followed by a global launch soon later.* TCL NXTWEAR S+ will go on sale as early as Q4 2023 in selected regions. * Features may vary by region. To learn more about RayNeo's products, please visit: https://www.rayneo.com/ About TCL RayNeo (RayNeo) TCL RayNeo (RayNeo), incubated by TCL Electronics (1070.HK), is an industry leader in consumer AR innovation, developing some of the world's most revolutionary AR consumer hardware, software and applications. RayNeo specializes in the research and development of AR technologies with industry-leading optics, display, algorithm and device manufacturing. Established in 2021, RayNeo has launched the world's first full-color Micro-LED optical waveguide AR glasses, achieving several technology breakthroughs in the industry. Alongside winning IDG's "Most Innovative Product" with NXTWEAR AIR, RayNeo also unveiled the innovative consumer XR wearable glasses NXTWEAR S featuring top-tier, cinematic audiovisual experiences, which has claimed the "Best Connected Consumer Device" award at MWC's Global Mobile Awards (GLOMO) 2023. About TCL Electronics TCL Electronics (1070.HK) is one of the world's fastest-growing consumer electronics companies and one of the world's leading television and mobile device manufacturers (TCL Communication is a wholly-owned subsidiary of TCL Electronics). For nearly 40 years TCL has operated its own manufacturing and R&D centers worldwide, with products sold in more than 160 countries throughout North America, Latin America, Europe, the Middle East, Africa and Asia Pacific. TCL specializes in the research, development and manufacturing of consumer electronics ranging from TVs, mobile phones, audio devices and smart home products as part of the company's "AI x IoT" strategy. For more information on TCL mobile devices, please visit: http://www.tcl.com/global/en.html. TCL is a registered trademark of TCL Corporation. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners. Alcatel is a trademark of Nokia used under license by TCL Communication. View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/tcl-rayneo-announces-remarkable-advancements-in-tcl-rayneo-x2-augmented-reality-glasses-and-unveils-premium-xr-glasses-301911993.html SOURCE TCL RayNeo

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[August 29, 2023] Stamus Networks Signs Reseller Agreement with Ayscom Tweet

Global network detection and response leader partners with trusted reseller to deliver network monitoring solutions to its enterprise customers INDIANAPOLIS and MADRID, Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Stamus Networks , the global leader of Suricata-based network security, today announced it has entered into a reseller agreement with Ayscom to market Stamus Networks' solutions throughout Spain and Portugal. Ayscom, headquartered in Madrid, Spain, has been providing solutions to the enterprise and telco service provider industries for over 20 years, connecting C-level and network operators with solutions that improve the performance and security of their networks. With a broad professional services team, Ayscom offers training, support, and solutions that are customized to their customers' specific needs. "We are excited to announce our partnership with Ayscom," said Steve Patton, vice president of sales, EMEA at Stamus Networks. "Their outstanding reputation for helping security teams enhance the performance and protection of their networks, and their extensive reach in Spain and Portugal make them an excellent addition to our growing base of boutique European reseller partners. We look forwad to working with their team to deliver the best network-based threat detection and response solutions to their clients."



Pedro Martin, CEO at Ayscom added, "Our company is committed to delivering exceptional service and support, as well as providing leading technology solutions to our clients." "Stamus Networks stands out as an innovator in the network detection and response market, and their Stamus Security Platform will enable our enterprise clients to more-effectively identify and address critical threats and unauthorized network activities before any damage is done," he added. Martin further emphasized, "Security teams not only require advanced detection to uncover attack signals, but they must also understand what triggered an event so they can respond quickly and minimize risks to their organization's vital assets. The Stamus Security Platform and our partnership with Stamus Networks empowers us to provide precisely that assistance to our clients, in the cloud, on-premise, or both."

About Stamus Networks Stamus Networks believes in a world where defenders are heroes, and a future where those they protect remain safe. As organizations face threats from well-funded adversaries, we relentlessly pursue solutions that make the defender's job easier and more impactful. The global leader in Suricata-based network security solutions, Stamus Networks helps enterprise security teams know more, respond sooner and mitigate their risk with insights gathered from cloud and on-premise network activity. Our Stamus Security Platform combines the best of intrusion detection (IDS), network security monitoring (NSM), and network detection and response (NDR) systems into a single solution that exposes serious and imminent threats to critical assets and empowers rapid response. For more information visit: stamus-networks.com. About Ayscom Founded in 2003, Ayscom has emerged as a leading reseller of cybersecurity and telecommunications solutions focused on improving the performance of enterprise systems. The company delivers the best monitoring, testing, measurements, and security solutions to their clients throughout Spain and Portugal. They also stand behind all their solutions, delivering a comprehensive range of professional services to ensure seamless integration and optimized performance across diverse domains. For more information visit: ayscom.com/en. View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/stamus-networks-signs-reseller-agreement-with-ayscom-301911984.html SOURCE Stamus Networks

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[August 29, 2023] Apex and Google Partner to Advance North Carolina's Second Wind Farm Tweet

Apex Clean Energy and Google today announced a power purchase agreement-the companies' first-for the full 189 MW capacity of Timbermill Wind, to be constructed in North Carolina. Timbermill Wind will support Google's 2030 commitment to powering its operations with carbon-free energy around the clock. The PPA will contribute to the clean energy needs of the company's data centers on the PJM grid. Google, in its third decade of climate action, has matched its annual electricity consumption with 100 percent renewable energy since 2017. "Within the decade we have an ambitious goal for every Google data center to operate on clean electricity, every hour of every day," said Donna Calderon, energy senior lead at Google. "We're excited to work with Apex for the first time to not only add wind power to one of the most difficult grids to decarbonize, but also bring additional clean energy jobs to North Carolina." "Timbermill Wind demonstrates the Apex team's unmatched ability to execute on our expansive portfolio, even in a region notoriously difficult to advance wind power," said Ken Young, CEO of Apex. "Alongside Google, with shared values and an ambitious perspective of its role in the energy transition, we're pleased to deliver this best-in-class project-one only achievable through this strong collaboration." In addition to generating tangile environmental benefits, including the contribution of approximately $190,000 to nearby conservation efforts, Timbermill Wind will inject significant local economic benefits as Chowan County's largest taxpayer. The project will create approximately $33 million in tax revenue for the community, more than 150 jobs during construction, and a new source of income for local farmers and landowners.



About Apex Clean Energy Apex Clean Energy was founded with a singular focus: to accelerate the shift to clean energy. Through origination, construction, and operation of utility-scale wind, solar, and storage facilities, distributed energy resources, and green fuel technologies, Apex is expanding the renewable frontier across North America. Our mission-driven team of more than 400 professionals uses a data-focused approach and an unrivaled portfolio of projects to create solutions for the world's most innovative and forward-thinking customers. For more information about how Apex is building the energy company of the future, visit www.apexcleanenergy.com or follow us on Facebook, YouTube, and LinkedIn.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230829662157/en/

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[August 29, 2023] Bazaarvoice Consumer Study Shows The 2023 Holiday Shopping Season Has Already Begun Tweet

AUSTIN, Texas, Aug. 29, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Bazaarvoice, Inc., the leading provider of product reviews and user-generated content (UGC) solutions, today released its latest research, based on a survey of more than 1,000 American consumers. The report explores where, what, when, and how shoppers are purchasing this holiday season, especially during Black Friday and Cyber Monday weekend (BFCM).

Survey highlights include: Shoppers prefer holiday shopping in-store, but not by much : 81% said they will holiday shop in-store, while 72% said online and 22% said on social media

: 81% said they will holiday shop in-store, while 72% said online and 22% said on social media Consumers want to learn about deals in certain places : Ads (64%) are where consumers want to hear about Black Friday deals most, but social media (46%), marketing emails from brands (46%) and news articles and gift guides (42%) are not far behind

: Ads (64%) are where consumers want to hear about Black Friday deals most, but social media (46%), marketing emails from brands (46%) and news articles and gift guides (42%) are not far behind Social media is a big discovery tool for BF/CM : 49% of consumers follow brands on social media to discover Black Friday deals, 45% are more likely to discover a product via social media than any other channel over Black Friday, and 25% of shoppers prefer to shop via social media over BFCM. 63% said they expect to discover new products on social media over BFCM

: 49% of consumers follow brands on social media to discover Black Friday deals, 45% are more likely to discover a product via social media than any other channel over Black Friday, and 25% of shoppers prefer to shop via social media over BFCM. 63% said they expect to discover new products on social media over BFCM No matter where they shop, reviews are a top priority : Three quarters (74%) of shoppers agree that reviews impact their purchasing decisions over BFCM, while over half (59%) say the same about their purchasing decisions on social media

: Three quarters (74%) of shoppers agree that reviews impact their purchasing decisions over BFCM, while over half (59%) say the same about their purchasing decisions on social media UGC gives shoppers confidence to purchase : 73% said they feel more confident in a purchase when they use user-generated content to make a purchase decision over BFCM and 64% said they trut that shopper content more than brand-provided content like product descriptions and professional product photos

: 73% said they feel more confident in a purchase when they use user-generated content to make a purchase decision over BFCM and 64% said they trut that shopper content more than brand-provided content like product descriptions and professional product photos Your brand needs to be holiday-ready now : 11% already holiday shopped in July and 14% in August, while 19% will in September, 35% in October, 57% in November, and 48% in December

: 11% already holiday shopped in July and 14% in August, while 19% will in September, 35% in October, 57% in November, and 48% in December Holiday shoppers prioritize big, then local, businesses : While large chain retailers (82%) are where people usually holiday buy, small, local businesses (58%) beat out online-only ones (55%)

: While large chain retailers (82%) are where people usually holiday buy, small, local businesses (58%) beat out online-only ones (55%) The hot ticket items this holiday season: 70% said theyre gifting apparel, 51% said games and toys, 47% said electronics, 40% said food and beverages, 37% said health and beauty, and 36% said jewelry



To see more stats from the study, click here.

Research methodology

The research was commissioned by Bazaarvoice and conducted in August 2023 by Dynata among 1,000 consumers in the U.S. About Bazaarvoice

Thousands of the worlds leading brands and retailers trust Bazaarvoice technology, services, and expertise to drive revenue, extend reach, gain actionable insights, and create loyal advocates. Bazaarvoices extensive global retail, social, and search syndication network, product-passionate community, and enterprise-level technology provide the tools brands and retailers need to create smarter shopper experiences across the entire customer journey. Founded in 2005, Bazaarvoice is headquartered in Austin, Texas, with offices in North America, Europe, and Australia. For more information, visit www.bazaarvoice.com Media Contacts:

Eleanor Simpson

Bazaarvoice

[email protected] Lauren Venticinque

Bazaarvoice

[email protected]



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[August 29, 2023] CI Global Asset Management Brings Leading Alternative Asset Managers to Canadian Investors Through Two Private Markets Solutions Tweet

CI Global Asset Management ("CI GAM") announces two solutions that provide Canadian investors with access to unique investment opportunities in global private markets. The solutions, a growth mandate and an income mandate, are now available to accredited investors through an offering memorandum. By using an open architecture fund-of-funds structure, the CI GAM solutions provide convenient one-stop exposure to a diverse set of leading private markets investment strategies. "Private markets investing offers a myriad of benefits, but this area is broad and complex and typically has been accessible only to the largest institutional investors," said Marc-Andre Lewis, Executive Vice-President and Chief Investment Officer of CI GAM. "CI GAM's scale and experience enable us to distill the complexity of private markets into a single investment that's well-diversified across this important group of asset classes. Furthermore, we're offering Canadian investors the expertise of global best-in-class alternative investment managers." Investment managers currently represented in CI GAM's private markets solutions include Adams Street Partners, Apollo Global Management, Avenue Capital Group, CBRE Investment Management, Demopolis Equity Partners, HarbourVest Partners and Whitehorse Liquidity Partners. Benefits of private markets investments - which are those made in entities that are not publicly listed or traded - include enhanced portfolio diversification, reduced correlation and lower realized volatility compared with public markets, and the potential for improved risk-adjusted returns. "Sophisticated institutional investors such as large public pension plans recognize the opportunities in private markets and may have 40% or more of their portfolios allocated to these investments," said Mr. Lewis. "Meanwhile, other investors face multiple barriers to private markets investing, including high investment minimums, lack of access, and the difficulties of navigating a large universe of managers and funds. Our one-ticket private markets solutions solve for these issues, as CI GAM is responsible for manager due diligence and selection, making allocations to different managers and strategies, constructing efficient, diversified portfolios, and ongoing risk and liquidity management." The solutions follow an open architecture approach, meaning that CI GAM has the ability to source leading managers within each asset class, and change allocations and add investment managers as needed to effectively manage the portfolios. "Another benefit for investors is that we are already operating at scale, with well-established relationships with our alternative investment managers," said Mr. Lewis. The private markets growth solution was launched in February 2023, when it was opened to investments by other CI GAM funds. That mandate now has $420 million in assets under manageent (at July 31, 2023). In addition to the two multi-manager solutions, CI GAM offers three other private markets solutions, with the first being launched in 2016.



The new CI GAM private markets income solution focuses on delivering yield and invests primarily in private credit, private real estate and private infrastructure, as well as private equity with the characteristics of preferred shares. The private markets growth solution invests primarily in private equity, venture capital, private real estate and private infrastructure. Lead portfolio managers of the mandates are Mr. Lewis and Geof Marshall, Senior Vice-President, Portfolio Manager and Lead - Private Markets. Mr. Lewis has over 20 years of investment experience, including deep experience in asset allocation and alternative investments. Prior to joining CI GAM, his roles included Head of Portfolio Construction at the Abu Dhabi Investment Authority, one of the world's largest sovereign wealth funds, and Senior Vice-President and Deputy Chief Risk Officer at Caisse de depot et placement du Quebec, where he led a team that analyzed and monitored the risks of both its public and private investments and was a member of the asset allocation committee.

Mr. Marshall leads the high-yield bond team at CI GAM and is a member of its asset allocation committee. He has 26 years of investment experience that has included managing corporate bonds, leveraged loans and private credit. The CI GAM team is also supported by resources of its U.S. affiliate, which are providing additional sourcing and due diligence expertise. These private markets solutions are the latest advancement in CI GAM's plans to build an industry-leading alternative investments platform to provide advisors and investors with additional options to diversify their portfolios and enhance risk-adjusted returns. CI GAM now offers five private markets solutions, and manages a diverse selection of liquid alternatives mandates with approximately $3.7 billion in total assets (as at July 31, 2023). Certain investment solutions offered by CI GAM, including the new multi-manager, multi-asset class solutions, are made in reliance on exemptions from the prospectus requirement in Canada, including where investments are made by accredited investors who meet minimum investment thresholds and other qualifying criteria, through registered dealers. About CI Global Asset Management CI Global Asset Management is one of Canada's largest investment management companies. It offers a wide range of investment products and services and is on the Web at www.ci.com. CI Global Asset Management is a subsidiary of CI Financial Corp. (TSX: CIX), an integrated global asset and wealth management company with approximately $430.3 billion in assets as of July 31, 2022. This announcement is not for publication or distribution, directly or indirectly, in or into the United States of America. This announcement is not an offer of securities for sale into the United States. Any securities referred to herein have not been and will not be registered under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and may not be offered or sold in the United States, except pursuant to an applicable exemption from registration. No public offering of securities is being made in the United States. This communication is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to purchase funds managed by CI Global Asset Management and is not, and should not be construed as, investment, tax, legal or accounting advice, and should not be relied upon in that regard. Every effort has been made to ensure that the material contained in this document is accurate at the time of publication. Individuals should seek the advice of professionals, as appropriate, regarding any particular investment. Investors should consult their professional advisors prior to implementing any changes to their investment strategies. These investments may not be suitable to the circumstances of an investor. Adams Street Partners, LLC, CBRE Investment Management, and HarbourVest Partners L.P. are portfolio sub-advisors to certain funds offered and managed by CI Global Asset Management. The foregoing named sub-advisors, as well as other investment managers represented in the new private markets solutions, including Apollo Global Management, Avenue Capital Group, Demopolis Equity Partners and Whitehorse Liquidity Partners, have not (i) explicitly or implicitly endorsed or approved nor (ii) been involved in the preparation of the information contained herein. Certain names, words, titles, phrases, logos, icons, graphics, or designs in this document may constitute trade names, registered or unregistered trademarks or service marks of CI Investments Inc., its subsidiaries, or affiliates, used with permission. All other marks are the property of their respective owners and are used with permission. CI Global Asset Management is a registered business name of CI Investments Inc. CI Investments Inc. 2023. All rights reserved. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230829452724/en/

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[August 29, 2023] Gen X Created Tech Culture, but Two-Thirds Say Work Is Now Less Important to Them Tweet

Two-thirds (68%) of Gen X tech workers say that work is not as important to them and achieving their life goals as it was before the pandemic, with 15% saying it has become far less important. Gen X pioneered the distinctive work-hard, play-hard culture of the tech industry, but new data from Qualtrics shows that, among all generations of tech workers, their priorities have shifted the most and they are pulling back from work that promised lucrative compensation and perks. Many tech workers switched jobs during the Great Resignation as they searched for higher pay and remote work. But more recently as the market shifted, tech companies saw their stock prices decline and many laid off employees in large numbers, ending a run of aggressive growth and hiring. Gen X less motivated than younger employees at work Half of tech employees say they are more motivated by their company's mission and values now than they were before the pandemic. However, Gen X tech employees, born between 1965 and 1980, don't hold that same level of motivation. Just 38% say their company's mission and values are more motivating than they were pre-pandemic. Millennial tech workers born between 1981 and 1996, many of whom are now well established in their careers, are showing continued optimism about their future in the industry. About half (49%) of millennials say that work is more important to them than it was before the pandemic, and most say they aspire to work at a large, recognizable tech firm during their career. Nearly a third (30%) say, if they had to look for a new role, they would look for a job only at another tech company. "As the industry and economy continue to shift, tech company leaders must renegotiate their relationship with employees," said Qualtrics Chief Workplace Psychologist Dr. Benjamin Granger. "Call it a 'mid-life crisis' for tech companies or just one more change brought on by the pandemic years, but there's clearly a shift in sentiment especially among the older, more tenured employees."







Total Gen Z (born 1997-2012) Millennial (born 1981-1996) Gen X (born 1965-1980) My company's mission and values are more motivating than they were pre-pandemic 50% 47% 56% 38% Work has become even more important to me and achieving my life goals 44% 42% 49% 32% I aspire to work for a high-profile, large technology company 54% 60% 60% 37% I would only look for a job at a tech company if I were to look for a new job 26% 19% 30% 24%

Workers in tech hubs and outside tech hubs have different outlooks Working in an area with a high concentration of tech companies means both employees and the companies they work for have options - and that shows in employee sentiment toward the industry. The prevalence of tech companies in tech hubs creates an environment where employees are more worried about their job security (41%), but are likewise more confident that they can find a new, better paying job if they need to (52%). Company leaders seem to recognize this as well; employees in tech hubs are more likely to say their leadership has done a good job of adapting to the changing relationship with work (65%) than workers in other parts of the country (55%). The data shows that the enduring appeal of working in tech is especially prevalent in tech hubs. More than two-thirds of tech employees in these areas aspire to work at a large, high-profile tech company, while less than half of tech workers living in other areas share this goal. As companies call employees back to the office, those in tech centers are more likely to say they're required to spend more time in the office than they were six months ago - and they are more likely to look for a new job because of it. More than half (61%) of the tech workers in tech hubs say they are actively looking for a new job or plan to in the next year because of these requirements, compared with 41% of tech workers in other areas. "Living and working in areas dense with tech talent elevates the visibility of how the industry is changing, which can give it an outsized impact on employee perception, both positive and negative," said Granger. "Organizations need to pay close attention to their employees' needs to avoid attrition, especially for their top talent." Total Workers in tech hubs (Austin, Denver, Salt Lake City, San Francisco, Seattle) Workers outside tech hubs I aspire to work for a high-profile, large technology company 54% 68% 45% Very or extremely concerned about job security 27% 41% 18% Very or extremely confident I could find a higher paying job 45% 52% 40% Leaders have successfully adapted to changing relationship with work 59% 65% 55% Methodology This study was conducted in July and August 2023, among 1,000 US-based employees at tech companies. About Qualtrics Qualtrics, the leader and creator of the experience management category, is a cloud-native software provider that helps organizations quickly identify and resolve points of friction across all digital and human touchpoints in their business - so they can retain their best customers and employees, protect their revenue, and drive profitability. 20,000 organizations around the world use Qualtrics' advanced AI to listen, understand, and take action. Qualtrics uses its vast universe of experience data to form the largest database of human sentiment in the world. Qualtrics is co-headquartered in Provo, Utah and Seattle, and operates out of 28 offices globally. To learn more, please visit qualtrics.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230829075150/en/

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[August 29, 2023] New Enterprise Strategy Group Study Shows Cyber Attacks are Rapidly Increasing Despite Security Perimeter and Mitigation Strategies Tweet

In a new Enterprise Strategy Group (ESG) study released today, 65 percent of organizations confirmed that ransomware is one of the top three threats to their viability. And for 13 percent, it is the biggest threat. The ESG study, titled "2023 Ransomware Preparedness: Lighting the Way to Readiness and Mitigation" surveyed information technology (IT) and cybersecurity professionals working within organizations across the United States and Western Europe. According to the report's findings, while ransomware attacks are sometimes kept private from the public, they are a common occurrence and represent both a significant and recurring source of business disruption. Among the 600 respondents, only 16 percent of those whose organization had experienced a successful ransomware attack were able to fully recover all their data after the attack, while a staggering 84 percent lost data they were not able to recoup. The study, co-sponsored by Keepit, the world's leading vendor-independent, 100 percent cloud Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) for data protection, sought to identify proactive and reactive strategies employed by organizations to guard against growing ransomware attacks, examine mitigation best practices, and share how organizations can be better prepared in the coming 12 to 18 months. 57 percent pay additional ransom "Threat actors continue their attacks because, for them, it is a business model that works. In most cases, a ransomware attack results in permanently lost data, even when companies met the ransom demand." said Keepit Chief Technology Officer Jakob stergaard. Of the companies in the ESG study that reported that they had experienced a successful ransomware attack and paid the ransom, 85 percent experienced additional extortion attempts, and 57 percent paid the additional fees beyond the initial ransomware demand, Ostergaard continued. "



Threat actors are getting increasingly bold in their ransomware demands, giving their targets no choice but to relent and pay to get their data back and restore daily operations. As a result of this ongoing and growing problem, 80% of organizations surveyed stated that they expect their spending in support of ransomware preparedness to increase over the next 12 to 18 months. "Organizations continue to struggle with ransomware preparedness and need to establish updated strategies and processes in particular in the critical dimension of data and systems recoverability," said Christophe Bertrand, practice director at ESG. "The results of this study are critical to understanding the key components of data recovery after a ransomware attack, and it is our hope that the report can serve as a resource for organizations as they work towards preparedness."

Keepit's stergaard goes on to say, "What this tells us is that no matter what a company does, fully recouping stolen data is highly unlikely. In other words, it doesn't pay to pay. Cloud data is increasingly becoming a target for cyber criminals who really want to render businesses inoperable, and organizations are having to continually increase their expenditures on ransomware preparedness. According to the study, 74 percent of respondents are concerned that their backups could be compromised by ransomware. This is where the Keepit platform really distinguishes itself and brings unique value: We can guarantee the protection of cloud data and backup copies with immutable, blockchain-verified technology and encryption, and store it in a completely separate, vendor-independent infrastructure. These measures prevent the type of data loss that has become so common, offering our customers a solid return on their preparedness investment." To access the report, visit: 2023 Ransomware Preparedness: Lighting the Way to Readiness and Mitigation About Keepit Keepit is a Software-as-a-Service company that provides dedicated data protection for companies with data stored in the cloud. Keepit is the world's only vendor neutral and independent cloud dedicated to SaaS data protection based on a blockchain-verified solution. Keepit protects data in key business applications including Microsoft 365, Microsoft Azure AD, Google, and Salesforce. Headquartered in Copenhagen with offices and data centers globally, Keepit is trusted by thousands of companies worldwide to protect and manage their cloud data. For more information, visit www.keepit.com or follow Keepit | LinkedIn. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230829841606/en/

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[August 29, 2023] Nextiva Welcomes Senthil Velayutham as Chief Product and Technology Officer Tweet

Nextiva, the leading business conversation platform, today announced the appointment of Senthil Velayutham as Chief Product and Technology Officer (CPTO). This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230829160720/en/ CTO and Chief Architect of Microsoft Teams joins Nextiva as Chief Product and Technology Officer. (Photo: Nextiva) Velayutham brings high-growth product and technology experience, and joins Nextiva to lead the company's global engineering, product and technology teams. Most recently, Velayutham was Chief Product & Technology Officer at Trader Interactive, a Goldman Sachs and Eurazeo portfolio company, now acquired by carsales.com. Before that, Velayutham held various leadership roles at Microsoft, inluding for Microsoft Teams, Skype for Business, Microsoft Search & AI, and Microsoft Roundtable. As CTO/Chief Architect for Microsoft Teams, Velayutham helped scale the product from zero to 13 million daily active users in 53 languages, and across more than 180 countries.



"Nextiva is on a mission to transform how businesses connect and engage with their customers and teams," said Tomas Gorny, Co-founder and CEO, Nextiva. "As we look to the next phase of growth, Senthil is the right leader with a real passion for customer driven innovation, and an impressive track record of building market leading products and leading highly effective, global teams." "Nextiva believes that customer experience is the key to business success. In the next phase of transformation, Nextiva will provide industry leading solutions that enable businesses to understand, engage and delight their customers across multiple channels," said Velayutham. "I am really excited to join Tomas and the team to deliver Nextiva's vision to businesses of all sizes around the world."

Earlier this year, Nextiva announced its acquisition of Simplify360, an AI customer experience platform. The acquisition opens the door to the Asia-Pacific market for Nextiva, as the company expands to support more businesses globally. Nextiva raised $200M from Goldman Sachs Asset Management in its first ever funding round at a $2.7B valuation in late 2021. About Nextiva Nextiva is the leading "connected conversations" platform, helping teams get on the same page to deliver amazing experiences for their customers. Over 100,000 businesses trust Nextiva to provide a powerful "single-view" of all the conversations in their business. Founded in 2008, and headquartered in Scottsdale, Arizona, Nextiva is the largest privately-held communications company in North America. Learn more at www.nextiva.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230829160720/en/

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BEIJING, Aug. 29 (Xinhua) -- Two senior officials of north China's Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region have been subjected to disciplinary Party penalties as they were responsible for a severe mine collapse in February, according to an official statement on Tuesday.

Huang Zhiqiang, a standing committee member of the Communist Party of China (CPC) committee of the Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region and a vice chairman of the regional government, was served a warning by the Party. Dai Qin, another vice chairman of the regional government, was handed a severe warning.

The decision to hand down penalties was made by the Standing Committee of the CPC Central Commission for Discipline Inspection (CCDI) and approved by the CPC Central Committee.

On Feb. 22, an open-pit mine in Alxa League in Inner Mongolia collapsed, killing 53 people, injuring six others, and bringing direct economic losses of over 200 million yuan (about 27.84 million U.S. dollars). A State Council investigation revealed that the coal company, the local Party committee and the local government were responsible for the accident.

A CCDI investigation found that Huang, who was in charge of Inner Mongolia's energy sector and affairs related to workplace safety, had neglected his administrative and supervisory duties related to the regulation of the autonomous region's coal industry.

Dai, who served as chief of Alxa League and secretary of the league's Party committee between September 2018 and February 2023, was found to have neglected his duties related to the administration and supervision of groups maintaining workplace safety.

The police launched investigations into 19 people for being accountable for the severe accident, including a stakeholder of the coal company involved. Procuratorial organs have approved the arrest of 13 of them, according to Inner Mongolia authorities.

Six local officials and civil servants are under disciplinary and supervisory investigations for suspected severe violations of disciplines and laws as well as duty-related crimes.

Thirty-six other officials and civil servants were handed different punishments, such as severe warnings by the Party and dismissal from posts, due to their acts of dereliction of duties. 
[August 29, 2023] Bluon Introduces MasterMechanic, an Innovative AI Based on 50,000 Tech Support Calls to Help HVAC Technicians Diagnose Problems in the Field Tweet

Bluon, Inc., an innovative software company focused on bringing productivity gains to HVAC contractors and their service technicians, today introduced MasterMechanic, a breakthrough AI tool for HVAC technicians that allows them to instantly diagnose and solve problems in the field, using only natural language. The beta product is available publicly to the entire industry for a limited time at bluon.ai. MasterMechanic is the first generative AI tool created to assist HVAC technicians. It represents the next stage of tools for service technicians and the beginning of a fundamental shift in how they will handle challenges in the field. MasterMechanic is an assistive application, designed to give HVAC technicians step-by-step answers to specific, complex problems in language that is easy to follow and very specific to the issue at hand. MasterMechanic is siilar to ChatGPT, but instead of being trained on generic internet content, it's trained on Bluon's brand-agnostic and comprehensive body of HVAC data. Bluon's HVAC data includes nearly 50,000 problem-solution scenarios experienced in the real world and the knowledge of some of the top mechanics in the trade. As a result, the system understands a huge breadth of HVAC issues, in virtually every system type from residential to complex commercial units. It knows how technicians describe problems, and how to provide immediate, practical guidance. Bluon's data is unrivaled, making it uniquely suited to develop AI solutions, particularly in the complex and nuanced world of HVAC equipment.



"You can think of MasterMechanic as the collection of Bluon's vast HVAC knowledge. It's like a superintelligence for the industry. This early beta version has been very impressive and even shocking at times. We have an ambitious roadmap for it and are excited to continue expanding its capabilities," said Peter Capuciati, chairman and CEO, Bluon. "We've been really impressed with the progress in the machine learning community; it's helped us maximize the possibilities of Bluon's immense set of HVAC data. Under the hood, MasterMechanic uses a combination of machine learning approaches including reinforcement learning with human feedback (RLHF), retrieval augmented generation (RAG) in high dimensional vector space, and large language models (LLMs)," said Adam Curry, SVP, Bluon.

Bluon sets the standard for data in the HVAC industry. The launch of MasterMechanic demonstrates Bluon's innovation and leadership in the HVAC space, and its emphasis on making all facets of the industry more efficient. About Bluon Bluon is at the forefront of the $150 billion HVAC market, serving as the industry's trusted hub of information. Leveraging the industry's most expansive database of equipment, parts and documentation, Bluon empowers the industry through cutting-edge cross-reference capabilities, top-tier support tools, and an agnostic e-commerce marketplace that connects contractor demand to distributor's supply. Bluon's extensive reach spans the entire industry, with 2,500 distributors and 170,000 technicians representing 55,000 contractors. In a landscape characterized by fragmentation, complexity and antiquated technology, Bluon's mission is to create efficiency for the key stakeholders in the HVAC industry through its proprietary data, analytics and massive brand-agnostic network. Bluon stands as a new approach to propel the industry toward a more efficient and prosperous future. For more information about Bluon, please visit www.bluon.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230829582808/en/

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[August 29, 2023] Tyler Technologies Signs First Full-Suite Public Safety Agency in State of Maine Tweet

Tyler Technologies, Inc. (NYSE: TYL) announced it signed an agreement with Scarborough Public Safety in Maine for Tyler's public safety solutions including Enterprise Public Safety, Enforcement Mobile, and Fire Prevention Mobile. "After a thorough selection and vetting process, we're pleased to select Tyler's Enterprise Public Safety, Enforcement Mobile, and Fire Prevention Mobile software solutions," said Joseph Thornton, 911 director for Scarborough Public Safety. "This software system implementation will be critical to the success of our police and fire departments and emergency communications division. It will allow them to respond more quickly to residents, more accurately track records, and more effectively communicate with each other." Taking advantage of the latest cloud technology, Scarborough Public Safety will utilize this cloud-hosted suite, which is powered by Amazon Web Services' (AWS) GovCloud, to bolster its public safety offerings in the followingways:



Enhanced, real-time communication between dispatch, police, and fire/EMS agencies within Scarborough and Old Orchard Beach that improves situational awareness and leads to data-driven responses with Enterprise CAD

Streamlined citation management allows for the creation, management, and deployment of electronic citations from mobile devices with Enforcement Mobile

Easy collection of payments from citations with the direct integration between Enforcement Mobile and the agency's current usage of Tyler's payment software solution

Improved fire prevention efforts with access to pre-plans, permits, and mission-critical data with direct integration between Fire Prevention Mobile and Enterprise CAD "We are very excited to bring our public safety suite to Scarborough Public Safety, representing our first full-suite agency in Maine," said Andrew Hittle, president of Tyler's Public Safety Division. "For decades, Tyler's had a large footprint in the state of Maine, with many municipalities taking advantage of our public administration and court solutions. Bringing our public safety solutions to Maine is an exciting endeavor for us. We're confident our robust solutions will improve operations, accuracy, and communication for the agency's police, fire, and emergency communications personnel." The town of Scarborough is located in Cumberland County on the southern coast of Maine, near Portland. It has a population of roughly 23,000.

About Tyler Technologies, Inc. Tyler Technologies (NYSE: TYL) provides integrated software and technology services to the public sector. Tyler's end-to-end solutions empower local, state, and federal government entities to operate efficiently and transparently with residents and each other. By connecting data and processes across disparate systems, Tyler's solutions transform how clients turn actionable insights into opportunities and solutions for their communities. Tyler has more than 40,000 successful installations across nearly 13,000 locations, with clients in all 50 states, Canada, the Caribbean, Australia, and other international locations. Tyler has been recognized numerous times for growth and innovation, including Government Technology's GovTech 100 list. More information about Tyler Technologies, an S&P 500 company headquartered in Plano, Texas, can be found at tylertech.com. #TYL_Financial View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230829710414/en/

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[August 29, 2023] UT AUSTIN INVESTS IN AUSTIN-BASED BATTERY TECH COMPANY, GROUP1 Tweet

UT Austin's Discovery to Impact Program invests in Group1, a company developing advanced cathode materials that enable critical mineral-free, domestically sourced Potassium-ion batteries. AUSTIN, Texas, Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Discovery to Impact at The University of Texas at Austin has invested $250,000 in Group1, a UT Austin-affiliated startup aiming to revolutionize the energy industry by developing Potassium-ion battery (KIB) technology. The investment will help Group1 increase its workforce, expand production capacity of their product potassium cathode material, Kristonite, to pilot-scale, and forge business partnerships with Tier1 cell and automotive manufacturers that wish to establish a domestic, "lithium alternative" solution. This is the fourth investment made by UT Austin's $10 million Seed Fund, which is managed by Discovery to Impact, the University's research commercialization team. The fund invests in the most promising new startups built on university-owned intellectual property emerging from UT Austin's $845 million research enterprise. It invested in Group1, an Austin-based technology company born out of the late 2019 Nobel laureate Professor John Goodenough's lab, because of its commitment to commercialization of ground-breaking research and belief that KIBs are a credible, sustainable, and cost-effective alternative to Lithium-ion batteries (LIBs). "This investment in Group1 is a testament to the University's dedication to expanding research commercialization across campus and leveraging the immense and growing intellectual talent of UT Austin and its affiliates," said Christine Dixon Thiesing, Associate Vice President of Discovery to Impact. "We are a world class university located in the heart of Austin, Texasa booming technology and innovation hub and a vibrant and dynamic cityat the forefront of the 21st century's emerging knowledge-based economy. We are excited about our partnership with Group1, and wish the Group1 team continued success." Group1 will commercially produce KIBs, an energy storage solution free of critical minerals such as Lithium, Cobalt, Nickel, and Copper, while facilitating domestic manufacturing and further strengthening U.S. energy security. Its product, Kristonite, a 4V cathode material  Potassium Prussian White (KPW)  enables KIBs that can deliver faster charging ith enhanced safety and higher energy density when compared to Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP)-based LIBs or Sodium-ion batteries (NIB), making them the future of the energy industry. To date, Group1 has raised $7.5 million to bring KIB technology to market and is currently in the early phases of engagement with leading supply-chain partners and several of the largest and most reputable cell manufacturers, domestic and globally.



"Group1 is pleased with UT Austin's investment into Group1. It will enable the commercialization of ground-breaking battery technology that reduces U.S. reliance on critical minerals that are chiefly sourced from conflict regions or countries suffering geopolitical unrest," said Alex Girau, CEO and Co-founder of Group1 and an Energy Transition Fellow at the Energy Institute. "We are proud to be based in the battery capital of the world, Austin, Texas, and to further strengthen our ties with world renowned institution such as UT Austin." Group1 employs several UT Austin alumni and affiliates  including employees who worked at Professor John Goodenough's famed lab, where many of today's LIB innovations, such as LFP, were invented. Leigang Xue, Group1 Chief Product Officer and Co-Founder, invented the core KPW technology during his time at UT Austin as a Postdoctoral researcher in the Goodenough lab. In addition, he is also a Visiting Scholar at the Texas Material Institute. Group1 has further developed KIB core technology and has established a world leading IP position, which includes exclusive license from UT Austin.

"As an investor in Group1 and having been a member of the Board of Directors of the University of Texas/Texas A&M Investment Management Company (UTIMCO) for ten years, I believe deeply in this partnership's potential to transform the U.S battery supply-chain and help solve the looming Lithium shortage," said Kyle Bass, Founder and Chief Investment Officer of Hayman Capital. "UT has long been a world leader in developing battery technology and I am excited that Group1 will commercialize this technology in Texas." For more information about Group1, visit www.group1.ai. For more information about Discovery to Impact, visit https://discoveries.utexas.edu/. About Group1 Founded in 2021 and based in Austin, TX, Group1 is the world's first engineered materials company focusing on the rapid commercialization of Potassium-ion batteries. The company is revolutionizing the energy industry by enabling sustainable, efficient, and cost-effective energy storage -- expanding beyond the limitations of Lithium-ion batteries while building on the best of Lithium-ion technologies. About Discovery at Impact and The UT Austin Seed Fund Discovery to Impact at The University of Texas at Austin brings research discoveries to the marketplace to impact the world. Working with world-class inventors, investors, creators, and entrepreneurs, the Discovery to Impact team launches startups and collaborates with established businesses to accelerate new products, services, solutions, and cures. The $10 million UT Austin Seed Fund is managed by Discovery to Impact. The fund invests in the most promising new startups built on university-owned intellectual property emerging from UT Austin's $845 million research enterprise. Media Contact:

Helen McCarthy

[email protected]

202.420.8449 View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/ut-austin-invests-in-austin-based-battery-tech-company-group1-301912186.html SOURCE Group1

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Thales Wins Google Cloud Technology Partner of the Year Security - Data Protection Award

Thales has been selected as the Google Cloud Technology Partner of the Year in the Security - Data Protection category. Thales was selected alongside a global field of top Google Cloud partners for excellence in developing and implementing customer solutions based on Google Cloud's technology.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230829348216/en/

Thales

The Thales and Google Cloud collaboration addresses the needs of organizations around the world that are facing ever-increasing security, sovereignty, and performance requirements for their cloud deployments. With many years of cybersecurity expertise, Thales provides the level of trust and security required for customers around the world to move to the cloud, while maintaining the necessary level of control. By combining Thales' platform expertise with Google Cloud's enterprise-grade solutions and cutting-edge infrastructure, the two companies work closely on a number of broad data security initiatives.

Thales, in its constant search of excellence in its security portfolio, recently announced a new collaboration to develop data security capabilities and bring additional AI-powered features to users of its CipherTrust Data Security platform. This is powered by Google Cloud's Vertex AI machine learning capabilities, to discover, classify and protect sensitive data in the cloud. The machine learning functionality helps to automate fundamental tasks for customers and ensure their sensitive cloud-hosted data remains protected.

Since late 2022, Thales' CipherTrust Cloud Key Manager has also supported Bring Your Own Key (BYOK) initiatives, including those for Google Cloud and Google Workspace. Thales and Google Cloud have also collaborated to operate a sovereign cloud joint venture (S3NS) for Google Cloud customers in France who seek to meet stringent data sovereignty requirements, such as those applicable to state and critical infrastructure organizations.

Thales has built a structured cloud offering for companies that want to meet the most demanding data protection standards. In France, S3NS, the joint venture between Thales and Google Cloud, aims to offer French companies and public institutions a solution providing the equivalent of Google Cloud , compliant with the "SecNumCloud" label, a certification from the French information systems security agency (ANSSI). To date, SecNumCloud has the highest level of protection in France, excluding the protection of national defense secrets, and in Europe. S3NS has a first offering already available that offers additional guarantees & controls, such as data location in Europe and external encryption managed by S3NS (based on Thales technology).

"Google Cloud's partner awards recognize the significant impact and customer success that our partners have driven over the past year," said Kevin Ichhpurani, Corporate Vice President, Global Ecosystem and Channels at Google Cloud. "We're delighted to recognize Thales as a 2023 Google Cloud Partner Award winner, and look forward to a continued strong partnership in support of our mutual customers."

Sebastien Cano, Senior Vice President of Cloud Protection and Licensing activities at Thales, commented: "We are very proud of our ongoing relationship with Google Cloud and this latest award recognises the brilliant work we've been doing with them across a range of projects. Together we are helping customers around the world discover, classify and protect their data more efficiently, and ensure their move to the cloud is as secure and compliant as possible."

Thales is also participating at Google Cloud Next, which is taking place from 29-31 August 2023. Some of the sessions include:

How global leaders are addressing digital sovereignty requirements, with Cyprien Falque, CEO of S3NS More details about the event, which will be available to watch both live and on-demand online, can be found here.







About Thales Thales (Euronext Paris: HO) is a global leader in advanced technologies within three domains: Defence & Security, Aeronautics & Space, and Digital Identity & Security. It develops products and solutions that help make the world safer, greener and more inclusive. The Group invests close to 4 billion a year in Research & Development, particularly in key areas such as quantum technologies, Edge computing, 6G and cybersecurity. Thales has 77,000 employees in 68 countries. In 2022, the Group generated sales of 17.6 billion.

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Cloud Protection & Licensing Solutions | Thales Group

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[August 29, 2023] GitLab Wins a Google Cloud Technology Partner of the Year Award Tweet

SAN FRANCISCO, Aug. 29, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- All Remote - GitLab Inc. , the most comprehensive AI-powered DevSecOps platform, today announced that it has received the 2023 Google Cloud Technology Partner of the Year award for the DevOps, Application Development category. This is the third consecutive year GitLab has been recognized.

GitLab was recognized for its achievements in Application Development within the Google Cloud ecosystem. The partnership enables joint customers to develop better cloud-native applications faster, driving efficiency at every stage of the software development lifecycle. GitLab fully integrates with Google Cloud to support joint customer development workflows from idea to production, helping teams improve cycle time, reduce development costs, and deliver more secure and compliant software faster. GitLab and Google Cloud share a strong commitment to privacy and enterprise readiness, and recently expanded their partnership to deliver secure AI offerings to the enterprise. As part of the Built with Google Cloud AI program, GitLab leverages Google Clouds generative AI models to provide customers with AI-powered features with a privacy-first approach, helping enable AI efficiencies without compromising security best practices. The GitLab DevSecOps platform empowers organizations to harness the benefits of AI throughout the software development lifecycle for faster delivery while helping safeguard their source code.



This recognition builds on the long-standing relationship between GitLab and Google Cloud beginning in 2018. Previously, GitLab won the Partner of the Year for Application Development Award in 2021 and 2020. Supporting Quotes:

"Google Clouds partner awards recognize the significant impact and customer success that our partners have driven over the past year," said Kevin Ichhpurani, Corporate Vice President, Global Ecosystem and Channels at Google Cloud. "We're delighted to recognize GitLab as a 2023 Google Cloud Partner Award winner, and look forward to a continued strong partnership in support of our mutual customers." "We are thrilled to be recognized by Google Cloud as a leader in DevOps and application development for the third year in a row," said Nima Badiey, VP of Strategic Partnerships, GitLab. "We recently expanded our strategic partnership to meet the growing industry demand for privacy-first, AI-powered solutions that enable faster software delivery. We look forward to our continued collaboration to deliver an AI-powered DevSecOps platform to our joint customers embarking on their cloud migration and application modernization journeys." About GitLab

GitLab is the most comprehensive AI-powered DevSecOps platform for software innovation. GitLab enables organizations to increase developer productivity, improve operational efficiency, reduce security and compliance risk, and accelerate digital transformation. More than 30 million registered users and more than 50% of the Fortune 100 trust GitLab to ship better, more secure software faster. Contact

Christina Weaver

[email protected]



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[August 29, 2023] GALE and Moonrock Labs Join Forces to Redefine Branded Gaming Experiences Tweet

Moonrock's interactive activations will open new avenues for Stagwell's (STGW) GALE and its impressive roster of clients. NEW YORK , Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Leading Business Agency GALE has announced a strategic partnership with renowned gaming design specialist Moonrock Labs . The collaboration combines Moonrock Lab's industry-leading game development and design capabilities with GALE's award-winning integrated marketing approach, revolutionizing gaming solutions for the agency's client base. The alliance follows other collaborations with GALE clients, including Truth Initiative, Wells Enterprises and MilkPEP. Moonrock Lab's specialty capabilities include crafting curated activations within video game titans Fortnite, Roblox, Minecraft, and ARK: Survival Evolved. These playable worlds have amplified the reach of partners, including Coca-Cola, Fanta, Burger King, and Macy's. By leveraging Moonrock Lab's expertise in these realms, GALE further solidifies its commitment to the gaming space while offering unparalleled access in three key areas: Emerging products and technology . GALE will transform emerging products into interactive, accessible experiences for clients, bringing opportunities for innovation upstream through Moonrock's experienced product team.

. GALE will transform emerging products into interactive, accessible experiences for clients, bringing opportunities for innovation upstream through Moonrock's experienced product team. Research and development . The partnership will deliver thought leadership and bespoke research to accelerate industry understanding of gaming's impact and effectiveness.

. The partnership will deliver thought leadership and bespoke research to accelerate industry understanding of gaming's impact and effectiveness. Access to amers. GALE will leverage Moonrock's extensive network of millions of real gamers, many from the key Gen Z demographic, to promote activations to a broader audience.



Fortnite maps for MilkPEP launched at VidCon, integrated Bomb Pop into Restaurant Tycoon II on Roblox, and in coming weeks will host several Minecraft events with creators and community members, including free custom items for Truth Initiative. "Marketers are still grappling with how to authentically integrate into gaming ecosystems and communities. To do so, they must transition from a strategy of mere impressions to one of complete immersion. GALE's partnership with Moonrock Labs allows us to accelerate marketers on that transformative journey," GALE Chief Innovation Officer Ben James said.

"Our previous projects with GALE have proven it's possible to build long-form, immersive, interactive commercials consumers will line up to experience," said John Benyamine, co-founder of Moonrock Labs. "Even more exciting is the fun, communal feeling generated before, during and after each event. These are effectively short-term, branded theme parks in the cloud that can be accessed from any device anywhere in the world  and admission is free." Earlier this year, GALE unveiled Advance Party, an innovation practice aimed at integrating emerging and innovative formats into its storytelling machine, driving exponential growth for clients. The partnership with Moonrock Labs marks the first of several exciting announcements to come. Also in 2023, Moonrock Labs launched Black-focused gaming site LoopBreak with support from Google Play, as well as content creation for clients including Samsung, Star Trek, and Skydance Interactive. For more information contact [email protected] About GALE

GALE is a Business Agency. We bring business insights to brand storytelling and activate across every channel. With expertise in business strategy, CRM, loyalty, brand storytelling, integrated, performance, creative, and content marketing, experience design and media, GALE creates marketing systems and communications that grow businesses. Founded in 2014, the agency currently has offices in New York, Singapore, Toronto, Denver, Detroit, Los Angeles, London, Austin and Bengaluru. In 2021, GALE was named Data & Analytics Agency of the year on the Ad Age A-List. For information on GALE, its customer data platform Alchemy and its consumer research capability ASK GALE, visit: https://gale.agency/. About Moonrock

Moonrock combines decades of video game industry knowledge with cutting-edge engagement methods and technologies designed to reach the critically-important gamer demographic. Specializing in content creation on a variety of networks, Moonrock opened its Labs division in 2023 with a team of 150 developers, designers, and product managers creating interactive experiences in Roblox, Fortnite, Minecraft, and other leading gaming platforms. Clients include Samsung, PUBG, Red Bull, Immutable, HyperX, Paramount, Comic-Con International, and more. Visit https://Moonrock.agency for more View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/gale-and-moonrock-labs-join-forces-to-redefine-branded-gaming-experiences-301912687.html SOURCE Stagwell Inc.

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[August 29, 2023] 22.12% CAGR of Global Medical Cannabis Market Size Worth USD 68.26 billion in 2030, by Product, Source, Species, Derivatives, Route of Administration, Treatment Type, Distribution Channel, Application, Region, and Competitive Landscape Tweet

New York, Aug. 29, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Medical Cannabis Market is expected to grow significantly in the forecast period driven by factors such as the increasing legalization of medical cannabis in various countries, rising prevalence of chronic diseases and development of new medical cannabis products and delivery methods. However, the medical cannabis market also faces certain challenges that could hinder its growth. Such factors include, regulatory uncertainty, lack of scientific evidence and negative public perception. The Medical Cannabis market size was estimated at USD 16.85 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 68.26 billion in 2030 at a CAGR of 22.12% during the forecast period 2023-2030. Medical Cannabis refers to the use of the cannabis plant of its derivatives, such as cannabinoids like THC and CBD, for medical purposes. It is used to treat various conditions, like chronic pain, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, and nausea associated with chemotherapy and many more. Its legality and availability vary by country and region. The two main active compounds in cannabis are tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), each of which has distinct effects on the body. Medical cannabis can be administered through various methods such as smoking, vaping, edibles, oil and tinctures, topicals, capsules, etc. However, it is important to note that while medical cannabis holds potential benefits, its not without risks. Side effects can include dizziness, dry mouth, impaired cognitive function, and in some cases, increased anxiety or paranoia. Additionally, its legality and regulations vary widely around the world, with some places allowing medical use under strict conditions and others not permitting it at all. Get a Sample Copy of the Medical Cannabis Market Research Report (Use Corporate Email ID to Get Higher Priority): https://www.delvens.com/get-free-sample/medical-cannabis-market-trends-forecast-till-2030 Scope of the Medical Cannabis Market Report: The Medical Cannabis Market is segmented into various segments such as product, source, species, derivatives, application, route of administration, treatment type, distribution channel and region: Based on product, the medical cannabis market is segmented into: Oil Dried Medical Cannabis Medical Cannabis Capsules Vape Pen Whole Flower Creams & Moisturizer Ground Flower Patch Masks & Serum Cleanser Others Based on source, the medical cannabis market is segmented into: Synthetic Natural Based on species, the medical cannabis market is segmented into: Cannabis Indica Sativa Hybrid Based on derivatives, the medical cannabis market is segmented into: Cannabidiol (CBD) Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)/ Delta-8-Tetrahydrocannabinol Cannabigerol (CBG) Cannabichromene (CBC) Cannabinol (CBN) Cannabicyclol (CBL) Others Based on application, the medical cannabis market is segmented into: Pain Management Anxiety Muscle Spasm Nausea Appetite Loss Eating Disorders Inflammatory Bowel Diseases Cancer Arthritis Wasting Syndrome (Cachexia) Alzheimer's Disease Epilepsy Depression and Sleep Disorder Multiple Sclerosis Autism Mental Health Conditions Elevate Mood Others Based on route of administration, the medical cannabis market is segmented into: Oral Solutions and Capsules Smoking Vaporizers Topicals Others Based on treatment type, the medical cannabis market is segmented into: Analgesic Psychedelic Antiviral Aphrodisiac Expectorant Others Based on distribution channel, the medical cannabis market is segmented into: B2B B2C Based on region, the medical cannabis market is segmented into: Asia Pacific North America South America Europe Middle East & Africa The prominent players in the Medical Cannabis Market are Aurora Cannabis BARNEY'S FARM CANNABIS SEEDS USA CANOPY GROWTH CORPORATION Cresco Labs EcoGen Biosciences Elixinol Global Limited ENDOCA Extractas FOLIUM BIOSCIENCES HEXO Corp. (Zenabis Global Ltd) HUMBOLDT SEED COMPANY JAZZ Pharmaceuticals Inc. (GW Pharmaceuticals plc) Medical Marijuana, Inc. MediPharm Labs Inc. Peace Naturals Project Inc. PharmaHemp Seed Cellar Seeds For Me Tilray World Class Cannabis Seeds (Crop King Seeds) For More Information or Query or Customization Before Buying, Visit at: https://www.delvens.com/Inquire-before-buying/medical-cannabis-market-trends-forecast-till-2030 Medical Cannabis Market Recent Developments: In August 2023, White Earth Nation Launches Medical Cannabis Program & Adult-Use Cannabis Sales becoming one of the first dispensaries to legally sell Adult-Use marijuana in Minnesota. In Feb 2023, BOHECO introduces Indias first line of clinically trialled medical cannabis products. The company plans to provide hemp-based wellness by introducing clinically tested and research backed medical cannabis products. Medical Cannabis Market Regional Analysis: North America to Dominate the Market North America is estimated to account for the largest market share during the forecast period due to the increasing investment in medical cannabis. Moreover, the legalization of cannabis in various countries in North America allows the region to dominate the market during the forecast period. The Medical Cannabis Market report answers a number of crucial questions, including: Whih companies dominate the Medical Cannabis Market?



What current trends will influence the Medical Cannabis Market over the next few years? What are the market's opportunities, obstacles, and driving forces?

What predictions for the future can help with strategic decision-making? What advantages does market research offer businesses? Which particular market segments should industry players focus on in order to take advantage of the most recent technical advancements? What is the anticipated growth rate for the Medical Cannabis Market economy globally? Purchase This Report: https://www.delvens.com/checkout/medical-cannabis-market-trends-forecast-till-2030 Delvens Industry Expert's Standpoint The medical cannabis market is expected to grow during the forecast period. This growth can be attributed to various factors. Firstly, as of 2023, medical cannabis is legal in over 30 countries around the world, and this number is expected to grow in the coming years. This is due to the growing research that supports the use of medical cannabis for a variety of conditions, including chronic pain, nausea, seizures and anxiety. Moreover, the medical cannabis industry ins rapidly evolving, and new products and delivery methods are being developed all the time. This is making medical cannabis more accessible and convenient for patients, and it is also opening up new treatment possibilities. However, certain factors might hamper the growth of the market during the forecast period. The demand for medical cannabis is growing faster than the supply, which could lead to shortages in the future. This could drive up prices and make medicinal cannabis less accessible to patients. Moreover, synthetic alternatives to medical cannabis are being developed, and these could pose a threat to the industry. For producing such excellent Medical Cannabis Market research report, principal attributes such as highest level of spirit, practical solutions, dedicated research and analysis, innovation, talent solutions, integrated approaches, most advanced technology and commitment plays a key role. Global Medical Cannabis Market report provides in-depth market data and forecast by analyzing key business trends and identifying potential growth avenues across the entire value chain. According to this market document, new highs will be made in the Medical Cannabis Market in 2023-2030. This report not only lends a hand for intelligent decision making but also better manages marketing of goods and services which leads to growth in the business. Read more about the Medical Cannabis Market Report: https://www.delvens.com/report/medical-cannabis-market-trends-forecast-till-2030 For more Pharmaceutical Industry Reports: https://www.delvens.com/industry/pharmaceutical More Trending Reports by Delvens: RNA-Sequencing (RNA-seq) & Analysis Market : The Global RNA-Sequencing & Analysis (RNA-seq) Market size was estimated at USD 2.8 billion in 2022 and is projected to reach USD 8.7 billion in 2030 at a CAGR of 17.7% during the forecast period 2023-2030. Prostate Cancer Therapeutics Market : The Prostate Cancer Therapeutics Market size was estimated at USD 11.7 billion in 2022 and is projected to reach USD 20.3 billion in 2027 at a CAGR of 8.10% during the forecast period 2023-2030. Relapsed/Refractory Multiple Myeloma (RRMM) Market : The Relapsed/Refractory Multiple Myeloma (RRMM) market size was estimated at USD 2.2 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 3.12 billion in 2030 at a CAGR of 4.5% during the forecast period 2023-2030. Genetic Testing Market : The global Genetic Testing market size was estimated at USD 18.05 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 35.62 billion in 2030 at a CAGR of 10.20% during the forecast period 2023-2030. Cardiac Safety Services Market : The Cardiac Safety Services market size was estimated at USD 0.67 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 1.41 billion in 2030 at a CAGR of 11.26% during the forecast period 2023-2030. Central Nervous System (CNS) Therapeutics Market : The Central Nervous System (CNS) Therapeutics market size was estimated at USD 104.70 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 159.84 billion in 2030 at a CAGR of 6.23% during the forecast period 2023-2030. Antiseptic Market : The global Antiseptic market size was estimated at USD 53.34 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 76.06 billion in 2030 at a CAGR of 5.20% during the forecast period 2023-2030. Cardiovascular Drugs Market : The Cardiovascular Drugs market size was estimated at USD 168.36 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 221.85 billion in 2030 at a CAGR of 4.02% during the forecast period 2023-2030. About Delvens: Delvens is a strategic advisory and consulting company headquartered in New Delhi, India. The company holds expertise in providing syndicated research reports, customized research reports, and consulting services. Delvens qualitative and quantitative data is highly utilized by each level from niche to major markets, serving more than 1K prominent companies by assuring to provide information on the country, regional, and global business environment. We have a database for more than 45 industries in more than 115+ major countries globally. We use AI and machine learning to make existing offerings quicker and cheaper, as well as to offer new services which couldnt have been dreamt of a few years ago. From creating concepts to implementing them, we have the best-proven strategies that will help the organization and are assisting the organization to overcome the prevailing challenges and recognize recent opportunities before their competitors. We are capable of providing tailor-made research services keeping because of your specific requirements. We assure to provide the best possible services for all our clients. Our analysts are available for your assistance and will perfectly understand your needs and demand. Delvens database assists clients by providing in-depth information on crucial business decisions. Delvens offers significant facts and figures across various industries namely Healthcare, IT & Telecom, Chemicals & Materials, Semiconductor & Electronics, Energy, Pharmaceutical, Consumer Goods & Services, and Food & Beverages. Our company provides an exhaustive and comprehensive understanding of the business environment. To find out more, visit https://www.delvens.com/ or follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn and Facebook.

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[August 29, 2023] Fivetran Extends Partnership with Google Cloud; Earns Google Cloud Technology Partner of the Year Award for Data Ingestion Tweet

Fivetran, the global leader in automated data movement, today announced that it has received the 2023 Google Cloud Technology Partner of the Year Award for Data Ingestion, which recognizes the company's best-in-class data movement and ingestion solutions for Google Cloud customers. Fivetran also achieved Google Cloud Ready - Cloud SQL Designation for Cloud SQL, Google Cloud's fully managed relational database service for MySQL, PostgreSQL, and SQL Server, and was recognized as a launch partner in Google's Data & AI Cloud for Marketing. These accolades signal a continued strengthening of the partnership and further demonstrate Fivetran's commitment to supporting customers, such as Autozone, Cisco, and Backcountry, across the Google Cloud analytics ecosystem. With its recognition as 2023 Google Cloud Partner of the Year Award for Data Ingestion, this marks the second year Fivetran has been recognized by Google Cloud for its partnership and innovative data movement platform. Last year, Fivetran was recognized with the 2022 Google Cloud Global Technology Partner of the Year award for its achievements in the Google Cloud ecosystem, providing an ingestion solution that allows customers to move data into Google BigQuery quickly and easily. "Our partnership with Fivetran provides enterprise customers with a streamlined data ingestion process into BigQuery - ultimately providing them with faster access so they can gain deeper insights into their data," said Gerrit Kazmaier, Vice President and General Manager for Database, Data Analytics & Looker at Google Cloud. "This award recognizes the strong value Fivetran's data movement platform continues to bring to our customers across the Google Cloud ecosystem." "Our data team is responsible for optimizing patient care pathways and data integration with Fivetran is the first - and a very critical - step for us in uncovering desirable outcomes for them. The Fivetran and GCP integration has become a mission-critical component that enables a significant amount of our data-driven capabilities. Furthermore, the ase of use has made adoption more scalable and efficient so that several people on the team are able to set up and maintain Fivetran data pipelines," said Trenton Huey, Senior Director, Data and Frontend Engineering at Vida Health.



Google Cloud Ready - Cloud SQL is a new designation for the solutions of Google Cloud's technology partners that integrate with Cloud SQL. The distinction recognizes Fivetran for meeting a core set of functional and interoperability requirements when integrating with Cloud SQL and refined documentation for ease of onboarding by our mutual customers. As part of the program, Fivetran will get more opportunities to collaborate closely with Google partner engineering and Cloud SQL teams to develop joint roadmaps. The new distinction adds to Fivetran's existing status as a Google Cloud Ready in the BigQuery program. Fivetran's robust support for all three Google Cloud SQL databases, including Postgres, MySQL, and SQL Server sets it apart from competitors and helped lead to this recognition. As a partner for the Data & AI Cloud for Marketing launch, Fivetran provides additional support for data movement of marketing data sources into BigQuery for business critical use-cases such as marketing spend optimization, creative content generation and activation, personalization and segmentation and privacy-centric data sharing. By providing a streamlined data movement process, marketers can gain deeper insights into their campaigns, customers, and marketing efforts and accelerate data-driven decision making.

"We're proud to work with Google Cloud and be recognized for both our products and innovative thinking," said Andy Bhaduri, VP of Global Partners and Alliances at Fivetran. "As enterprises look to accelerate their digital transformations, data-driven decision making is critical. Having the right infrastructure is the first step. Fivetran is committed to helping expand data movement capabilities for BigQuery customers, ultimately speeding up the flow of data for decision-makers." "Google Cloud's partner awards recognize the significant impact and customer success that our partners have driven over the past year," said Kevin Ichhpurani, Corporate Vice President, Global Ecosystem and Channels at Google Cloud. "We're delighted to recognize Fivetran as a 2023 Google Cloud Partner Award winner, and look forward to a continued strong partnership in support of our mutual customers." For more information about Fivetran and Google Cloud, please visit: https://www.fivetran.com/partners/technology/google-cloud About Fivetran Fivetran automates data movement out of, into and across cloud data platforms. We automate the most time-consuming parts of the ELT process from extracts to schema drift handling to transformations, so data engineers can focus on higher-impact projects with total pipeline peace of mind. With 99.9% uptime and self-healing pipelines, Fivetran enables hundreds of leading brands across the globe, including Autodesk, Conde Nast, JetBlue, Lufthansa, Morgan Stanley and Pitney Bowes, to accelerate data-driven decisions and drive business growth. Fivetran is headquartered in Oakland, California, with offices around the world. For more information, visit fivetran.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230829693352/en/

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Glancy Prongay & Murray LLP Announces Investigation of P10, Inc. (PX)

Glancy Prongay & Murray LLP ("GPM") announces its investigation of P10, Inc. (NYSE: PX) concerning the Company and its directors' and officers' possible violations of state laws.

If you own P10 stock, would like to learn more about these claims, or have any questions concerning this announcement or your rights or interests with respect to these matters, please contact Tom Kennedy, of GPM, 230 Park Avenue, Suite 358, ew York, NY 10169 at [email protected], or at 212-682-5340. If you inquire by email please include your mailing address, telephone number, and the number of shares purchased and held.







This press release may be considered Attorney Advertising in some jurisdictions under the applicable law and ethical rules.

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[August 29, 2023]

Government of Canada invests in over 4,700 researchers across the country

Funding will support cutting-edge research in health, environment, economic development and more

EDMONTON, AB, Aug. 29, 2023 /CNW/ - Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada

Today, the Honourable Randy Boissonnault, Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Official Languages, on behalf of the Honourable Francois-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry, and of the Honourable Mark Holland, Minister of Health, announced support for over 4,700 researchers and research projects across Canada. These investments of over $960 million through grants, scholarships and programs are part of the government's ongoing support for Canada's research ecosystem.

This funding, administered through a variety of programs, will go toward acquiring the modern tools researchers need for their work, inspiring and training the next generation of scientists and researchers and supporting their work, and breaking down barriers to ensure an inclusive research community that is truly reflective of Canada's diversity. It will also help Canada attract and retain some of the world's best minds and foster international and domestic partnerships that will cement the country's position as a world leader in research and innovation.

The funding is distributed as follows:

The Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships  awarding $24.9 million to support 166 recipients through the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR), the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC) and the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada (SSHRC)

to support 166 recipients through the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR), the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of (NSERC) and the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of (SSHRC) The Banting Postdoctoral Fellowships  awarding $9.8 million to support 70 recipients through CIHR, NSERC and SSHRC

to support 70 recipients through CIHR, NSERC and SSHRC NSERC's Discovery Research Program  awarding $514 million to support more than 3,500 recipients

to support more than 3,500 recipients NSERC's PromoScience grants  awarding $10.3 million to 45 recipients

to 45 recipients SSHRC's Partnership Grants  awarding $45.7 million to 19 recipients

to 19 recipients SSHRC's Partnership Development Grants  providing over $14 million to 76 recipients

to 76 recipients SSHRC's Insight Research program  awarding almost $90 million to 510 recipients

to 510 recipients The Canada Foundation for Innovation's (CFI) John R. Evans Leaders Fund  providing over $113 million to support 396 research infrastructure projects at 56 institutions across the country

to support 396 research infrastructure projects at 56 institutions across the country The Canada Research Chairs Program  providing $133.7 million to 82 new and 75 renewed Chairs through CIHR, NSERC and SSHRC

to 82 new and 75 renewed Chairs through CIHR, NSERC and SSHRC The CFI is also providing nearly $5 million to support the research infrastructure needs of 22 Chairs at 12 institutions

to support the research infrastructure needs of 22 Chairs at 12 institutions The Robbins-Ollivier Award for Excellence in Equity  granting $300,000 to 3 recipients

This support for projects in all fields of science and research is crucial to creating an equitable and innovative future for all. The funding will support projects on mitigating the negative impacts of e-waste, advancing stroke recovery and rehabilitation, exploring the possibilities of responsible artificial intelligence development and usage, enhancing our understanding of how tissues respond to injury, inspiring youth in STEM, and much more.

Quotes

"Congratulations to these talented recipients from all across the country who are doing the groundbreaking work that will contribute not only to Canada's health and well-being but also to the world's. Through this funding, the Government of Canada is investing in the next generation of researchers and inspiring them to continue to think outside the box and tackle the challenges of today and tomorrow."

 The Honourable Francois-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry

"My best wishes to all of the recipients of these grants, awards and scholarships. The government is pleased to invest in your diverse array of health, natural sciences and engineering, and humanities and social sciences research projects because we know that your ideas, passion and hard work, as well as the evidence you uncover, are instrumental in improving the health and quality of life of people in Canada, and your findings contribute to the international research effort around the world."

 The Honourable Mark Holland, Minister of Health

"Our government is funding the top-tier researchers and scientists whose work makes Canada a world leader in research and innovation. These projectsfrom reimagining teacher education with Indigenous wisdom traditions to creating equity in mental health care to researching the impacts of space radiation and weather on Earth's climatewill help transform today's ideas into tomorrow's solutions. This is whyCanada is an innovation leader."









"Canada's researchers, scientists, students and institutions are increasingly working together across disciplines to find innovative solutions to local, national and global challenges. Their work and initiatives are vital to providing the tools, knowledge and insights needed to enhance the well-being and prosperity of Canadians and others around the world."

 Dr. Ted Hewitt, President, Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council and 2023 Chair of the Canada Research Coordinating Committee

Quick facts

Associated links

Stay connected

Find more services and information at Canada.ca/ISED.

Follow @CDNScience on social media for Canadian science news: Twitter, Instagram, Facebook

SOURCE Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada
A vehicle drives through a flooded street after thunderstorms in Milan, Italy, on July 25, 2023. (Str/Xinhua)

Just days after a blistering heatwave, Italy is now experiencing a significant drop in temperatures with strong winds and heavy rains that cause landslides, mudslides and flood warnings.

ROME, Aug. 28 (Xinhua) -- Train services between France and Italy were temporarily halted on Monday after a huge rockslide that blocked access to a series of tunnels. In the mountainous regions of Italy, landslides forced the evacuation of dozens of people.

Just days after a blistering heatwave, Italy is now experiencing a significant drop in temperatures with strong winds and heavy rains that cause landslides, mudslides and flood warnings.

According to local media, mudslides forced the evacuation of around 70 people near the Alpine city of Cortina d'Ampezzo, and a dozen others had to be taken to safety after flooding in the Valtellina area of Lombardy north of Milan. Roads were closed, and flood warnings were issued across northern Italy, including in and around the cities of Genoa, Milan, Turin and Verona.

Tourists refresh themselves with the water from a fountain near the Pantheon in Rome, Italy, on July 18, 2023. (Xinhua/Jin Mamengni)

In Venice, a high-tech anti-flood system was used this year, as the city faced the risk of flooding in August. Normally, the flood season in that part of the country begins in October. All this comes just days after the end of the country's third major heatwave of the summer. Last Friday, the Ministry of Health said that 19 of the country's 27 largest cities were under extreme heat warning, with high temperatures posing health threats even to young and healthy individuals.

Over the weekend, a cold weather system brought lower temperatures to the country. On Monday, only one city was under "red alert."

The train service that connects Italy's Piedmont region with France's Alpine Savoy region across the Alps was closed on Monday due to a rockslide in France's Maurienne Valley on Sunday, and could remain closed for days or even a week, according to train operators in both countries.

Firefighters remove a broken branch after thunderstorms in Milan, Italy, on July 25, 2023. (Str/Xinhua)

Temperatures were dropping in southern Italy on Monday, but without the rain that pelted much of the rest of the country. After weeks of drought, fire risks remained and there were reports of new wildfires around Sicilia's capital Palermo and in the rural parts of the island of Sardinia. There were no reports of serious injuries from the latest blazes, though in Sardinia the electricity transmission network was damaged, causing brief outages. 
[August 29, 2023] Pivot Bio Names Chris Abbott CEO; Announces FY2023 Results and Expansion of U.S. Operations Tweet

Pivot Bio, Inc., a sustainable agriculture company delivering farmers patented crop nutrition technologies that harness the power of nature to reliably and productively grow the food the world needs, has named Chris Abbott as Chief Executive Officer, effective immediately, to build upon the company's success to date. As previously announced, Pivot Bio co-founder and current CEO Karsten Temme will become Chief Innovation Officer. Chris Abbott is an industry leader and hands-on strategist who has focused his career on agriculture, water, sustainability, and technology. He most recently helped launch and build Conti Ventures at Continental Grain Company, a global investor, owner, and operator of companies with more than 200 years of history across the food and agribusiness spectrum. Chris has also served as a board director for several agriculture tech companies, including Pivot Bio since 2018. "Chris has the skills, ag expertise, and strategic vision to scale Pivot Bio into its next stage of growth as it delivers solutions that growers trust for their crops," said Pivot Bio Board Chairperson Roger Underwood. "After conducting a thorough search, it was clear that Chris is perfectly suited to lead Pivot Bio moving forward. His commercial acumen, financial know-how, and strong relationships across the agriculture industry are exactly what the company needs at this critical juncture to further accelerate our substantial momentum and capitalize on the many opportunities ahead." "I'm excited to build upon the rock-solid foundation of breakthrough scientific discovery and novel products that Karsten and the Pivot Bio team have built," said Chris Abbott, Pivot Bio CEO. "With Pivot Bio, growers achieve better profitability, predictability, safety, and sustainability. We help them realize strong yield results, greater ROI, and higher margins - that's an unbeatable value proposition to continue capturing market share in the $190B nitrogen market." The company is also announcing another year of rapid growth, with revenue increasing over 60% in FY2023, surpassing $100 million for the first time. These strong results were enabled by 95%+ Net Revenue Retention (NRR) from its 2022 grower cohort and 190+ NRR from its 2020 and 2021 cohorts. It was the fourth consecutive year of growth for revenue and acres, with Pivot Bio products becoming the synthetic nitrogen replacement of choice by U.S. farmers on over 5 million acres in FY2023 - an unprecedented rate of adoption for new crop nutrition technology. The company anticipates this momentum to continue in 2024, approaching double digit market share across U.S corn acreage.



As the company scales to create the world's largest biological nitrogen footprint to meet continued strong demand, it anticipates delivering industry-shaping growth in 2024 through its independent sales representatives, one of the largest ag distribution networks in the U.S. To support continued growth and expand customer service for growers, Pivot Bio also revealed plans to increase manufacturing and distribution across the country: A new 48,000-square-foot facility in St. Louis for the development, production, and manufacturing of Pivot Bio's latest product and agriculture's first-ever on-seed nitrogen technology, PROVEN 40 OS and RETURN OS.

A new 110,000-square-foot distribution center in Omaha, Nebraska, will enable the company to deliver climate-smart nitrogen to growers across the Corn Belt and Western U.S. faster and at scale.

A new state-of-the-art facility in the Iowa State University Research Park will open later this year to be a Midwest hub for technical expertise, product information, and personalized customer support, enabling farmers to maximize the benefits of Pivot Bio solutions.

The addition of a new packaging line at the company's first distribution center in Chicago. Pivot Bio will collaborate with 22 universities in 2023, reinforcing its commitment to independent research that advances its own product development and further instills confidence in growers. In 2022, the company collaborated with 15 research institutions on structured scientific trials that demonstrated how Pivot Bio's breakthrough technology maintains or improves yield while delivering on the core product promise to help growers achieve better profitability, predictability, and sustainability.

"With our strong fiscal year 2023 results and expansion plans to meet farmers' increasing demand, Pivot Bio is well-positioned for its next phase of growth under Chris' leadership," said Pivot Bio Co-founder and Chief Innovation Officer Karsten Temme. "I have worked alongside Chris for several years as we set our strategic direction with the Board, and he is the right person to further optimize the commercial opportunity of our patented products and fully realize our ambition to make agriculture more productive and sustainable." Synthetic fertilizer has, until now, been the primary way for farmers to grow the food the world needs, but it is one of agriculture's leading contributors to global greenhouse gas emissions and a significant driver of soil degradation, poor water quality, biodiversity loss, and air pollution. Synthetic nitrogen is unpredictable due to leaching and volatilization. Growers need nitrogen that is reliable, predictable, and better for the environment without compromising on yield. Pivot Bio's technology meets the demand for nitrogen consistency and dependability by enabling microbes to convert atmospheric nitrogen and reliably deliver it to the roots of crops, providing a source of nitrogen throughout the growing season with nearly 100% efficiency. In 2022, the company's products helped customers avoid approximately 226,400 metric tons of CO2 equivalent across over 3 million acres - like meeting the electricity needs of 44,000 U.S. homes for a year. More on the company's sustainability can be found in its inaugural impact report. About Pivot Bio Founded in 2011, Pivot Bio is a sustainable agriculture company delivering farmers patented crop nutrition technologies that harness the power of nature to reliably and productively grow the food the world needs in the face of increasing volatility. Synthetic nitrogen is one of agriculture's leading contributors to global greenhouse gas emissions. Our products are a breakthrough innovation and among the industry's most promising climate solutions because they deliver nitrogen to plants without the negative impacts of synthetic fertilizer. Our nitrogen is weatherproof, safer to handle, does not leach or contribute to nitrous oxide pollution. By making this possible for the first time at scale, Pivot Bio is upending the 190 billion USD nitrogen market. In our fourth consecutive year of growth, our revenue surpassed 100 million USD in FY2023. For more information, visit PivotBio.com. 1 https://www.statista.com/statistics/1266004/global-fertilizer-market-size/ View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230829298481/en/

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[August 29, 2023] Phil Wenk to Retire as CEO of Delta Dental of Tennessee and become President of the Company's Charitable Foundation; Jeff Ballard Named Successor Tweet

Delta Dental of Tennessee (Delta Dental) today announced that Dr. Phil Wenk will retire as chief executive officer (CEO) on December 31, 2023. Jeff Ballard, CPA, current president and CFO of Delta Dental, will succeed Wenk and become president and CEO effective January 1, 2024. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230829965953/en/ Jeff Ballard (left), president and CFO of Delta Dental, will succeed Dr. Phil Wenk (right) and become president and CEO effective January 1, 2024. (Photo: Business Wire) Dr. Wenk joined Delta Dental in 1997 after practicing dentistry for 20 years and has led the company as President and CEO since 2000. Delta Dental's board of directors developed a strategic leadership transition plan several years ago in preparation for his retirement. As part of that plan, Ballard, the company's CFO since 2015, was elevated to the role of president in 2022, expanding his internal oversight of the company. "Phil has been a transformational leader for this organization and built the company to amazing heights," said Dr. Paul Bacon, chair of Delta Dental of Tennessee's Board of Directors. "I'd like to thank both Phil and my fellow board members for their time and thoughtfulness as we prepared for this transition. Jeff has impressed us since he initially came on board as CFO, and that has only continued as he has taken on more responsibility in the last ear. This will be a seamless transition, and the company is well positioned for continued growth with Jeff at the helm."



Ballard is a native of Middle Tennessee and has worked in the region his entire career, serving as CFO of the Franklin-based e-commerce company Magazines.com for a decade prior to joining Delta Dental's leadership team. Ballard serves on the Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU) Accounting Advisory Board; the boards of directors of the Pinson Hospital Hospitality House, Music City Bowl, and the Governor's Early Literacy Foundation; and is a member of the Tennessee Business Roundtable and Rotary Club of Nashville. He has been recognized for his leadership by the Nashville Business Journal and MTSU. "Phil has been an incredible leader, colleague, and friend, and I have learned so much from him in these last few years," said Ballard. "I am honored to take on the role of president and CEO and continue to build on his incredible successes. One of my first big projects at Delta Dental was shepherding the expansion of the business into vision insurance, and we are exploring a number of other exciting opportunities ahead."

As CEO, Dr. Wenk led the company through a period of unprecedented growth. Under his tenure, revenue grew from $58 million to $412 million last year. He will be inducted into Tennessee's Health Care Hall of Fame later this year and has received numerous accolades for his leadership and service, including the Nashville Business Journal's "Most Admired CEO" and "Health Care Hero" awards, the American Cancer Society's St. George's medal, Meharry Medical College's "Circle of Friends" award, and Chairperson of the Year by St. Jude Children's Research Hospital in recognition to his leadership for several events through the years. "It has been a tremendous honor to lead Delta Dental," said Dr. Wenk. "More than any business milestone, I'm proud of the exceptional team we have built and the impact we have been able to make in the community. The team has made me look good time and time again, and together, I hope we've shown that it is possible to run a successful business and be civic-minded and socially responsible. I have full confidence in Jeff and the entire team as they build on this momentum and look forward to watching their continued growth and success." A graduate of the University of Tennessee and University of Tennessee Health Science Center (UTHSC) College of Dentistry, Dr. Wenk has supported his alma maters through fundraising campaigns and the recent chancellor search. He has served as the chair of the UTHSC Advisory Board since it began in 2019 and is the immediate past chair of the UT Foundation Board of Directors. Dr. Wenk received an Outstanding Alumnus Award from the UTHSC College of Dentistry Alumni Association in 2016 and was selected from more than 370,000 alumni as one of the University of Tennessee's "Top 100 Distinguished Alumni" by the University of Tennessee System's alumni magazine. Following his retirement as CEO, Dr. Wenk will become president of the company's charitable arm, the Smile180 Foundation. Since its inception in 2015, the Smile180 Foundation and Delta Dental of Tennessee have reinvested more than $30 million in the community by supporting charitably run dental clinics, children's hospitals, and oral health education, including Tennessee's dental schools. For more information about Delta Dental of Tennessee, please visit DeltaDentalTN.com. Delta Dental of Tennessee Delta Dental of Tennessee is the state's largest independent dental benefits carrier with 1.4 million lives covered. As part of the Delta Dental Plans Association, Delta Dental of Tennessee members have access to the largest dental network in the nation with more than 154,000 providers serving more than 443,000 locations. With the simple mission of ensuring healthy smiles, Delta Dental of Tennessee works hard to help members of the communities it serves. Along with its corporate foundation, Smile180, Delta Dental of Tennessee donated more than $5.4 million in funding and in-kind services to over 110 organizations in 2022. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230829965953/en/

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[August 29, 2023] NumbersUSA Highlights E-Verify at 2023 National Conference of State Legislatures Legislative Summit Tweet

ARLINGTON, Va., Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Following Florida's recent law making E-Verify mandatory for employers of 25 employees or more, E-Verify was highlighted as a rapidly emerging issue at the 2023 National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL) Legislative Summit that was held in Indianapolis, IN. NumbersUSA, the nation's largest single-issue advocacy group, presented the exhibit illustrating the status of E-Verify NumbersUSA, the nation's largest single-issue advocacy group, presented the exhibit illustrating the status of E-Verify nationally. E-Verify is a free, online portal where employers can check that their new hires are legally authorized to work in the United States. President Obama made E-Verify mandatory for all Federal agencies and contractors. Still, it remains optionable for private businesses to use instead of the I-9 Federal form system which detractors say is antiquated, cumbersome, and easily subject to fraud. "80% of the voters are in favor of E-Verify and that was about the split for legslators who dropped by and spoke with us," said Andrew Good, Chief of Staff for NumbersUSA's State Government Relationships organization. Good added, "Even those who disagreed weren't really arguing against the E-Verify system. The big question is, which ones are going to take the ball and run with it."



NumbersUSA empowers voters to achieve better, sensible immigration policies. The NCSL exhibit illustrated that 18 states have some form of E-Verify requirement and that seven states make E-Verify mandatory for all or most businesses. Over 48 million new hires had their authorization to work in the United States verified last year through E-Verify. "E-Verify is one of the most impactful things state legislatures can do to deter future illegal immigration and to protect jobs and wages for their state's lawful residents," commented Chris Chmielenski, Director of State Government Relations for NumbersUSA. Chmielenski continued, "Moreover, a state's ability to require employers to use E-Verify has been upheld by the Supreme Court of the United States."

According to a 2017 report from the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas, those states that have implemented mandatory E-Verify for all employers have seen reduction in the presence of undocumented migrants illegally seeking jobs without authorization to work reduced up to 83%. "We strive to educate the public and elected officials on the issues and laws regarding immigration," remarked James Massa, CEO of NumbersUSA. He concluded, "It was encouraging to discuss the issues with stakeholders from across the country and from both sides of the aisle." About NumbersUSA NumbersUSA supports a balanced immigration system that welcomes the spouses and minor children of U.S. citizens and legal permanent residents, is responsive to acute refugee crises, attracts those with extraordinary ability and talents, addresses temporary labor shortages, and protects the most vulnerable. NumbersUSA is a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization that believes better immigration policy is needed and possible. As America's largest single-issue advocacy group, focused exclusively on immigration reform, NumbersUSA has 8 million grassroots supporters spread across every congressional district. Founded solely by Roy Beck in 1996 to promote civil debate on the immigration recommendations of the U.S. Commission on Immigration Reform - chaired by civil rights icon Barbara Jordan, NumbersUSA continues to advocate for sensible immigration policies that ensure Americans' safety, promote economic fairness, while protecting the environment and quality of life. Media Contact:

Colin Valentine

Email: [email protected] View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/numbersusa-highlights-e-verify-at-2023-national-conference-of-state-legislatures-legislative-summit-301912968.html SOURCE NumbersUSA

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[August 29, 2023] Cathedra Bitcoin Announces Second Quarter 2023 Financial Results Tweet

(Block Height: 805,355) - Cathedra Bitcoin Inc. (TSX-V: CBIT; OTCQB: CBTTF) ("Cathedra," the "Company," or "we"), is pleased to announce the results of our operations for the second quarter and six months ended June 30, 2023 ("Q2 2023"). Second Quarter 2023 Financial Highlights Our mining operations produced 77.15 gross bitcoin during Q2 2023, compared to 57.65 bitcoin during Q2 2022, an increase of 19.50 bitcoin. The increase was due primarily to the expansion of our hash rate from 231 PH/s as of June 30, 2022, to 382 PH/s as of June 30, 2023. This expansion of our hash rate more than offset an increase in network hash rate, from 214 EH/s as of June 30, 2022, to 370 EH/s as of June 30, 2023.

We recorded revenue of C$2.9 million during Q2 2023 compared to C$2.5 million during Q2 2022, an increase of $0.4 million. The increase was due primarily to the expansion of our hash rate, which more than offset the increase in network hash rate and a decrease in the average price of bitcoin from US$32,492 during Q2 2022 to US$28,038 during Q2 2023.

We settled C$2.5 million of the outstanding principal amount of our 3.5% senior secured convertible debentures into approximately 18.5 million common shares of the Company, which were issued at a deemed price of C$0.135 per share. As of August 29, 2023, the convertible debentures have an outstanding principal balance of C$19.9 million, which is due upon maturity on November 11, 2024.

As of August 29, 2023, we held approximately C$3.7 million of cash and approximately C$744,300 of bitcoin (19.55 BTC) for total cash and bitcoin liquidity of approximately C$4.4 million. Second Quarter 2023 Operational Highlights We completed the deployment of the remaining Bitmain Antminer S19J Pro and XP machines that we purchased in Q4 2021 at our leased data centers in Washington and a third-party hosting facility in Kentucky.

We renewed our hosting agreement with an existing partner in Tennessee for another 12-month term which began on July 1. Under the terms of the renewed agreement, we pay a fixed rate of US$72.50 per megawatt hour for electricity and hosting services for 1,129 Bitmain Antminer S19J Pro machines and retain the ability to underclock these machines without losing rights to the full power capacity. On August 17, 2023, we informed the hosting partner of our intention to begin underclocking these machines on September 1, 2023. Through underclocking, we will reduce the break-even hash price on these machines by 12% to approximately US$46.00/PH/s/day, ensuring these machines continue to produce positive cash flow.

We announced a strategic partnership with 360 Mining, an off-grid bitcoin mining company with a presence in Texas. With the partnership, we have expanded our operating footprint to a fourth US state and have become the only publicly listed bitcoin miner with operations utilizing both on- and off-grid energy sources. We have deployed the first of our proprietary bitcoin mining Rovers-which are mobile data centers we design and manufacture in-house-at 360 Mining's off-grid location in Texas, with 360 Mining providing natural gas and power generation infrastructure to supply continuous electricity to our bitcoin mining infrastructure. We pay an efective rate of US$45.80 per megawatt hour for power consumed, plus 10% of gross bitcoin mined at the site. Using underclocked machines which we have repurposed from our previous partnership with Great American Mining in 2021-22, the initial deployment currently produces approximately 5 PH/s and is expected to improve to 8 PH/s in the coming weeks as we implement further optimizations. The partnership gives us the right to up to 2.0 megawatts of total power capacity, which we expect to produce at least 54 PH/s of total hash rate if fully utilized.

As of August 29, 2023, the Company's active bitcoin mining hash rate totaled 387 PH/s across four states and six locations in the United States.



Management Commentary "Recent weeks have seen the improved bitcoin mining conditions of H1 2023 regress to levels comparable to most challenging periods of Q4 2022. During this time, we remain focused on finding creative, capital-efficient ways to create value for our shareholders. This focus is exemplified by our recent partnership with 360 Mining, under which we will continue to deploy idle hash rate and infrastructure with minimal capex, as well as our ongoing efforts to underclock our machines using custom firmware to ensure profitability. As always, we thank our shareholders for their continued support."

About Cathedra Bitcoin Cathedra Bitcoin Inc. (TSX-V: CBIT; OTCQB: CBTTF) is a Bitcoin company that believes sound money and abundant energy are the keys to human flourishing. The Company has diversified bitcoin mining operations which produce 387 PH/s across four states and six locations in the United States. The Company is focused on managing and expanding its portfolio of hash rate through a diversified approach to site selection and operations, utilizing multiple energy sources across various jurisdictions. For more information about Cathedra, visit cathedra.com or follow Company news on Twitter at @CathedraBitcoin or on Telegram at @CathedraBitcoin. Cautionary Statement Trading in the securities of the Company should be considered highly speculative. No stock exchange, securities commission or other regulatory authority has approved or disapproved the information contained herein. Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Forward-Looking Statements This news release contains certain "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws that are based on expectations, estimates and projections as at the date of this news release. The information in this release about future plans and objectives of the Company, are forward-looking information. Other forward-looking information includes but is not limited to information concerning: the intentions and future actions of senior management, the intentions, plans and future actions of the Company, as well as the Company's ability to successfully mine digital currency; revenue increasing as currently anticipated; the ability to profitably liquidate current and future digital currency inventory; volatility of network difficulty and, digital currency prices and the resulting significant negative impact on the Company's operations; the construction and operation of expanded blockchain infrastructure as currently planned; and the regulatory environment of cryptocurrency in applicable jurisdictions. Any statements that involve discussions with respect to predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions, future events or performance (often but not always using phrases such as "expects", or "does not expect", "is expected", "anticipates" or "does not anticipate", "plans", "budget", "scheduled", "forecasts", "estimates", "believes" or "intends" or variations of such words and phrases or stating that certain actions, events or results "may" or "could", "would", "might" or "will" be taken to occur or be achieved) are not statements of historical fact and may be forward-looking information and are intended to identify forward-looking information. This forward-looking information is based on reasonable assumptions and estimates of management of the Company at the time it was made, and involves known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. The Company has also assumed that no significant events occur outside of the Company's normal course of business. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. The Company undertakes no obligation to revise or update any forward-looking information other than as required by law. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230829115319/en/

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[August 29, 2023] STEER Reports Q2 2023 Financial Results and Provides Update Tweet

TORONTO, Aug. 29, 2023 /CNW/ - STEER Technologies Inc. ("STEER" or the "Company") (TSXV: STER), (OTCQX: STEEF), an integrated ESG technology platform, today announced and filed its Q2 interim financial statements for the quarter ended June 30, 2023 ("Q2 2023"). All financial results are reported in Canadian dollars, unless otherwise stated.1 Selected Financial Highlights The following provides a summary of the Financial Results of the Company. For detailed information please refer to STEER's Q2 2023 Interim Financial Statements and its Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations for the quarter-ended June 30, 2023 (the "Q2 2023 MD&A"), filed on SEDAR at www.SEDAR.com .













For the

three

months

ended June

30, 2023

For the

three

months

ended June

30, 2022

For the six

months

ended

June 30,

2023

For the six

months

ended June

30, 2022

REVENUE

$ 1,006,817 $ 15,048,939 $ 16,235,838 $ 25,783,455

COSTS AND OPERATING EXPENSES

Cost of revenue



1,818,078

15,313,179

17,252,098

27,058,663

General and administration



1,372 ,608

1,850,006

2,781,804

3,854,390

Operational support



833,625

4,189,919

2,950,154

7,891,127

Research and development



145,031

685,425

423,845

1,422,904

Sales and marketing



259,016

525,349

810,099

1,116,464

Amortization



196,865

286,559

393,734

951,097

Depreciation



90,471

383,417

549,338

740,206

Total operating expenses



4,715,694

23,233,854

25,161,072

43,034,851

OPERATING LOSS



(3,708,877)

(8,184,915)

(8,925,234)

(17,251,396)























OTHER INCOME (EXPENSES)

















Government grants



-

631,653

-

1,654,467

Foreign exchange gain

(loss)



143,436

(12,743)

111,837

(20,687)

Interest expenses



(391,558)

(284,021)

(835,584)

(524,349)

Interest income



7,060

61

11,585

118

Gain from sale of equipment



-

12,628

(24,770)

32,198

Gain or Loss on

Termination



-

47,684

96,596

134,458

Fair value loss on

investment



-

-

(30,704)

132

Gain from Spin off B2B

Marketplace



-

-

35,946,312

-

NET LOSS/PROFIT

BEFORE INCOME

TAXES

$ (3,949,939) $ (7,789,653) $ 26,350,038 $ (15,975,059)

Deferred income tax

recovery



-

13,048

-

16,417

NET LOSS/PROFIT



(3,949,939)

(7,776,605)

26,350,038

(15,958,643)

Cumulative translation

adjustment



35,172

44,864

11,243

21,875

NET LOSS/PROFIT AND

COMPREHENSIVE

LOSS/PROFIT



(3,914,767)

(7,731,741)

26,361,281

(15,936,768)

Loss per share  Basic and diluted

$ (0.03) $ (0.06) $ 0.21 $ (0.14)

Weighted average number of shares outstanding

Basic and diluted



123,902,409

130,929,814

126,899,917

114,710,3311































____________________ 1 All figures are accurate to the hundreds

Furthermore, STEER announces a change to its senior management team with Jason Xie stepping down as the Company's Chief Financial Officer due to personal reasons. Mr. Xie will continue to provide assistance to the Company on a temporary and part-time basis as part of the Company's transition process to an interim CFO. About the Company STEER is an integrated ESG technology platform that moves people and delivers things through subscription and on-demand services. The Company's goal is to build a one-of-a-kind ecosystem that aggregates conscientious users, through a series of connected offerings, and enables them to buy, sell, or invest with the same platform, STEER. The Company's offerings generally fall into two categories: subscription-based offerings led by its flagship electric vehicle subscription business, STEER EV, and on-demand services incorporating delivery, B2B marketplace, Delivery-as-a-Service (DaaS) and rideshare businesses. The Company's platform is also powered by EcoCRED, its big data, analytics and machine learning engine which seeks to capture, analyze, parse and report on key data points in ways that measure the Company's impact on carbon reductions and offsets. For more about the Company, visit www.steeresg.com.



Suman Pushparajah, CEO

[email protected]

STEER

100 Consilium Pl, Unit 400

Scarborough, ON

Canada M1H 3E3

www.steeresg.com Forward-Looking Information Certain information in this press release contains forward-looking information, including with respect to the Company's business, operations and condition, management's objectives, strategies, beliefs and intentions, and the company's forward plans to rebrand. This information is based on management's reasonable assumptions and beliefs in light of the information currently available to us and are made as of the date of this press release. Actual results and the timing of events, such as those pertaining to success of the Company's financial performance going forward from the above Q2 2023 results, may differ materially from those anticipated in the forward-looking information as a result of various factors. Information regarding our expectations of future results, performance, achievements, prospects or opportunities or the markets in which we operate is forward-looking information. Statements containing forward-looking information are not facts but instead represent management's expectations, estimates and projections regarding future events or circumstances. Many factors could cause our actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements or future events or developments to differ materially from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. See "Forward-Looking Information" and "Risk Factors" in the Company's Annual Management Discussion & Analysis (MD&A) for the year ended December 31, 2022 (filed on SEDAR on May 1, 2023) and its interim MD&A for the period ended March 31, 2023 (filed on SEDAR on May 30, 2023) for a discussion of the uncertainties, risks and assumptions associated with these statements and other risks. Readers are urged to consider the uncertainties, risks and assumptions carefully in evaluating the forward-looking information and are cautioned not to place undue reliance on such information. We have no intention and undertake no 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 securities legislation and regulatory requirements. Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. SOURCE STEER Technologies Inc.

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Credit to this foodie blogger who offers a useful less of new places and others heaped upon the garbage pile of history . . .

A trend we notice . . .

Look at the economy reflected in these low-rent offerings . . . Fine-dining certain takes a hit as take-out remains champion after the pandemic.



Read more via www.TonysKansasCity.com link . . .
There's a lot to cover in this even update as we take a peek a crime reporting, legal updates and ongoing and worthwhile community outreach . . .



Check TKC news gathering . . .

Kansas City's Scout statue vandalized at Penn Valley Park Vandals targeted Kansas City's Scout statue at Penn Valley Park on Monday, spray painting the popular figure with red and blue paint.

Kansas City security guard charged for alleged sexual attacks on 2 women A security guard faces kidnapping and sex crimes charges in attacks on two women he found in the same Northeast Kansas City, Missouri, neighborhood.

Jury convicts two men for drug trafficking, connection to KC murders A Kansas City, Missouri man and a Mississippi, man were convicted by a federal jury Monday for their roles in a drug-trafficking scheme that included two murders

KCPD seeks public's assistance in identifying suspects of 2022 homicide The Kansas City, Missouri, Police Department is attempting to identify the suspects of a homicide that took place in November 2022.

Mother charged after 6-month-old found dead in Kansas City field A woman is now facing charges after a baby was found dead in the woods near 41st Street and Pittman Road earlier this summer.

Police identify man shot, killed by Gladstone officers in Northland Authorities have identified the man shot and killed by a Gladstone police officer during a confrontation Friday morning.

Man cited for using phone to take pictures under bathroom stall at Merriam QuikTrip This all happened just before 9 a.m. Saturday at a Merriam, Kansas QuikTrip. The employees stepped up to stop this man from getting away before police arrived.

'Distracted driving is a big problem': What to know about Missouri's new hands-free driving law Missouri's hands-free driving law went into effect Monday, making the Show-Me state the 49th with such a law.

Human remains found by mushroom hunters identified as missing KC man Human remains found by mushroom hunters earlier this year have been identified as a man who was first reported missing in 2020.

Kansas City police looking for missing 60-year-old man, possibly in area of Red Bridge and Blue River Mark E. Mitchell was last seen at 9:45 a.m. on Aug. 27 at the 10900 block of Lydia Ave.

Scooter crash in KCMO critically injures driver A scooter driver in KCMO suffered critical injuries in a crash Monday evening.

Detectives seeking potential witnesses to fatal pedestrian hit-and-run on 71 Highway and 18th Street The deadly collision occurred just after 11 p.m. on Saturday Aug. 27, 2023

Developing . . .
This story continues to circulate amongst the conservative faithful and offers another strange election season instance wherein right-wing leaders have also turned critical of law enforcement.



Here's part of the story . . .



"(Sen.) Hawley, Missouris senior GOP senator, is one of eight members of the upper house to ask FBI boss Christopher Wray to be more forthcoming about the memo, which Wray discounted in March as being the work of one FBI field office."

Here's the main point of a statement the Missouri GOP leader signed on to . . .

The letter condemned what it described as religious persecution of Catholics, saying it was antithetical to the United States.

Targeting Americans because of their ideas or political affiliations is always wrong and an abuse of the FBIs power, but its especially alarming when it threatens the fundamental rights guaranteed in our Constitution, including the free exercise of religion, the letter read.

Read more via www.TonysKansasCity.com links . . .

Hawley joins push to force FBI to answer for anti-Catholic memo Hawley is one of eight senators to ask FBI boss Christopher Wray to be more forthcoming about the memo, which Wray discounted in March as being the work of one

Senate Republicans demand Wray explain 'potentially misleading' testimony about anti-Catholic memo Senate Republicans are demanding that FBI Director Christopher Wray explain his "potentially misleading" testimony about an anti-Catholic FBI memo.

Developing . . .
The President of the Hellenic Republic Katerina Sakellaropoulou addressing on Tuesday the Bled Strategic Forum in Slovenia said that there is no time to waste. "All the Mediterranean countries should respond in a coordinated way and take part in a collective effort for the reversal of the repercussions of the climate crisis", ANA reports.

Referring to Greece, she noted that the brain drain trend has worsened during the economic crisis that the country experienced a few years ago. She also expressed her optimism for the reversal of this trend and the return of a large part of those who were forced to leave the country in order for the country of the brain drain to become the country of the brain gain.

RELATED TOPICS: Greece, Greek tourism news, Tourism in Greece, Greek islands, Hotels in Greece, Travel to Greece, Greek destinations, Greek travel market, Greek tourism statistics, Greek tourism report

Photo Source: Wikimedia Commons License: CC-BY-SA Copyright: Nzeemin
President of the Hellenic Republic Katerina Sakellaropoulou arrived at Bled on Monday for the Bled Strategic Forum, at the invitation of Slovenian President Natas Pirc Musar, ANA reports.

The theme of the August 28-29 forum is "Solidarity for Global Security". At doorstep statements, Sakellaropoulou said, "I plan to refer to the repercussions of the climate crisis - which is assuming ever-growing alarming dimensions - and the fleeing of young people, especially the most educated ones, to countries with greater work opportunities." She added that the conference "will be constructive and contribute in the direction of assuming actions to deal with these phenomena."

On Tuesday morning, Sakellaropoulou will be one of the speakers on the panel "Global Challenges - Voices from the Youth". The six-member panel will be introduced and facilitated by Slovenian President Pirc Musar and will include Council of Europe Human Rights Commissioner Dunja Mijatovic and President of Moldova Maia Sandu.

RELATED TOPICS: Greece, Greek tourism news, Tourism in Greece, Greek islands, Hotels in Greece, Travel to Greece, Greek destinations, Greek travel market, Greek tourism statistics, Greek tourism report

Photo Source: Wikimedia Commons License: CC-BY-SA Copyright: Groubani
This photo taken on Aug. 29, 2023 shows the weapons seized by Afghan security forces in Balkh Province, Afghanistan. Afghan security forces have recovered a huge number of arms and ammunition in a series of operations in the northern province of Balkh on Monday, provincial head of counter-terrorism Atta Mohammad Bilal said Tuesday. (Photo by M Fardin Nawrozi/Xinhua)

MAZAR-I-SHARIF, Afghanistan, Aug. 29 (Xinhua) -- Afghan security forces have recovered a huge number of arms and ammunition in a series of operations in the northern province of Balkh on Monday, provincial head of counter-terrorism Atta Mohammad Bilal said Tuesday.

In the operations, "the security forces have found different types of weapons including 37 Kalashnikov rifles, nine pistols, a PK machine gun along with thousands of bullets," Bilal told Xinhua, adding that they arrested three persons over illegal possession of arms and ammunition.

Security forces discovered eight weapon caches, which contain 250 pieces of different kinds of light and heavy weapons in Balkh province over the past year and arrested 25 people over illegal possession of arms and ammunition, the police said.

The Afghan caretaker government has vowed to recover arms and ammunition from anyone living outside the security organs. 

This photo taken on Aug. 29, 2023 shows the weapons seized by Afghan security forces in Balkh Province, Afghanistan. Afghan security forces have recovered a huge number of arms and ammunition in a series of operations in the northern province of Balkh on Monday, provincial head of counter-terrorism Atta Mohammad Bilal said Tuesday. (Photo by M Fardin Nawrozi/Xinhua)
"Al Fursan", the United Arab Emirates Air Force aerobatic display team, and two Typhoons arrived on Monday in Athens ahead of the 11th Athens Flying Week 2023 to take place on September 2-3, ANA reports.

As the president of the organizing committee of Athens Flying Week 2023, Panagiotis Podimatas, said to the Athens-Macedonian News Agency (ANA-MPA), "The presence of 'Al Fursan' is a significant success, as this elite group rarely performs outside their country. It is the second time they come to Europe and the first time in Greece. Therefore, the joy and honor of choosing Athens Flying Week 2023 is even more important."

The presence of the US F-35 and the French Rafale, among others, is expected with great interest. Also, the F-16s from Belgium and Denmark, and the Greek teams "Dias" and "Daedalos" should be added to the large number of participants. As for the teams, in addition to the Saudi and Emirati teams, the Spanish Patrulla Aguila and teams from Switzerland and Belgium, and the acrobatic team from Kavala will also participate, while a team of disabled people will arrive from Italy, proving how much the human will achieve. Special mention should be made of the presence of the world aerobatic champion Luca Bertossio, while the event will also be accompanied by Greek Sky Diving and Gliding teams. The participation of the Aegean civil aircraft fleet is also important.

RELATED TOPICS: Greece, Greek tourism news, Tourism in Greece, Greek islands, Hotels in Greece, Travel to Greece, Greek destinations, Greek travel market, Greek tourism statistics, Greek tourism report

Photo Source: Wikimedia Commons License: CC-BY-SA Copyright: Chris Lofting
Over 350 firefighters, 50 vehicles, and 12 aircraft have been mobilized by the European Commission, "helping to battle the flames across Greece," European Commission spokesperson for Budget and Human Resources, Humanitarian Aid and Crisis Management Balazs Ujvari said in a tweet on Monday, ANA reports.

"While the summer season is slowly coming to an end, wildfires continue to rage across the continent," he added.

In a separate tweet, the EU Civil Protection & Humanitarian Aid directorate referred to the EU's rescEU volunteer natural disaster emergency program and said "The biggest rescEU aerial firefighting operation to date is happening right now in Greece, thanks to Cyprus, Sweden, Germany, the Czech Republic, Croatia, France, and Spain. In unity, our response against wildfires is stronger." As EU Civil Protection & Humanitarian Aid noted, the seven countries sent a total of 12 aircraft to Greece to help fight the fires.

RELATED TOPICS: Greece, Greek tourism news, Tourism in Greece, Greek islands, Hotels in Greece, Travel to Greece, Greek destinations, Greek travel market, Greek tourism statistics, Greek tourism report

Photo Source: Wikimedia Commons License: CC-BY-SA Copyright: Andrikkos
The Athens-Macedonian News Agency (ANA-MPA) and the Greek National Tourism Organization (GNTO) signed a memorandum on Tuesday for a comprehensive program to promote and publicize Greece abroad, ANA reports.

The memorandum was inked by ANA-MPA President and General Manager Aimilios Perdikaris and GNTO Secretary General Dimitris Fragakis.

Greece's promotion in the tourism sector, the promotion of GNTO actions, and the creation of targeted promotional actions for specific destinations or thematic (niche) tourism, as well as holding joint ANA-MPA and GNTO events are among the topics the deal includes. It also includes the promotion of specific articles of tourist interest by ANA-MPA to news agencies abroad.

In a statement at the event, Tourism Minister Olga Kefalogianni said, "The Athens-Macedonian News Agency, whose history covers more than a century, comprises one of the main providers of news stories and of news broadcasts, devoted to the principles of objectivity and reliability, both at national and at international level. We hope that the memorandum of understanding signed by ANA-MPA and GNTO, with the collaboration of the Tourism Ministry, will offer a new dynamic to Greece's tourism product, to the promotion and publicity of Greek tourism, and to the highlighting of issues related to our country's tourism development globally."

The ANA-MPA has "entered a phase of extroversion, and mainly invests in collaborations with agencies from which it may profit and at the same time offer that which its networks can offer in Greece and abroad: the reproduction of news, given the fact it comprises a primary source of information for Greek and international news media," the agency's Perdikaris pointed out.

At the same time, Perdikaris added, "We could not but set tourism as one of our basic priorities. For this reason, we went ahead with the specific agreement with GNTO and the Tourism Ministry, as Greece's promotion through its tourist product and through the ANA-MPA's networks is a very important move, which will impart to both agencies collaborating for this purpose very significant results."

Speaking on behalf of GNTO, Secretary General Fragakis noted, "Today we are inaugurating a new era of collaboration between GNTO and the Tourism Ministry, and ANA-MPA. It is a collaboration on which we have been working for a long time now. Today we signed the memorandum of collaboration and are very happy we will work together with one of the most important information agencies in Greece and mainly abroad. Our purpose is to be able to help Greece's promotion through the ANA-MPA channels and to offer our own technical know-how to the overall promotion of the country and to the Greek tourism product in Greece and abroad."

RELATED TOPICS: Greece, Greek tourism news, Tourism in Greece, Greek islands, Hotels in Greece, Travel to Greece, Greek destinations, Greek travel market, Greek tourism statistics, Greek tourism report




Comedian, actor and writer Ann Pornel is being recognized for her ability to bring joy into the lives of others.

Comedy found me, really, Pornel said. I basically did not like what I was studying in school ... it was really out of a desperate need to avoid real life that I found comedy.

Pornel, who immigrated from the Philippines to Canada at age five, is a recent recipient of the Top 25 Canadian Immigrant Awards.

To be a comedian and get this honour is quite special to me, because we dont often think about comedy as something that is very helpful or very healing, but I would say after the pandemic weve kind of learned that laughter can be the best medicine, she said.

Pornel is known for her role in co-hosting seasons 4-7 of The Great Canadian Baking Show and has experience in writing for television shows such as The Baroness Von Sketch Show and This Hour Has 22 Minutes.

Her latest on-screen appearance is as a host for the new television show, Recipe for Disaster, which combines elements from cooking shows and prank shows.

Were doing wild things to these chefs, Pornel said. Were launching them in the air, were throwing things at them and while were doing all of this mess, they have to create beautiful dishes.

Throughout her career in comedy, Pornel has focused on creating relatable content and making light out of her own experiences.

I found that things about race and body image were things I felt passionate about because they affected me on a day-to-day level, she said. I have a lifetime of experience being a racialized woman who is also fat and so when I started focusing on scenes and sketches that focus on that point of view, I found that thats when I became a lot more successful in my comedy.

Pornel said she wants other immigrants to remember to "follow the fun.

Our lives are very difficult, especially as immigrants we're taught to focus and to work hard, but we came to this wonderful country and we should enjoy it, she said. As important as it is to work hard, its also as important to enjoy the time that you have.


While her recognition through the Top 25 Canadian Immigrant Awards can be credited to her long list of achievements during her career as a family lawyer and mediator, Archana Medhekar didnt always envision this career path.

She planned to major in physics, but when her friend was killed in a domestic violence incident, she decided to change course and pursue law.

She was actually killed by her boyfriend because she refused to get married to him, Medhekar said.

That was really shocking, that it could actually happen to someone that I knew so closely ... I wanted to work in the area where I could talk about these issues and make sure that it doesnt continue.

After immigrating from India to Canada in 2001, Medhekar soon realized there would be challenges involved with relicensing as a lawyer. By 2004, she was called to the bar to requalify and soon after started a partnership law firm with a colleague. Three years later, the firm became her own and she now prides herself on the way she approaches her practice.

I dont think I ever saw my practice as a business, to be frank, Medhekar said. I always thought that its a profession thats there to serve people in need and that has really allowed me to keep my values as a professional and as a person, and it met the needs of many vulnerable people who were facing domestic violence.

In addition to her law career, Medhekar has co-authored books including Domestic Violence in Immigrant Communities: Case Studies, which looks at real-life cases of domestic violence, and Breaking the Silence: The Untold Journeys of Racialized Immigrant Youth through Family Violence, which recounts the experiences of adults who grew up dealing with domestic violence.

Medhekar said that being named as one of the recipients of the Top 25 Canadian Immigrant Awards was a pleasant surprise and an opportunity to continue the conversation on domestic violence.

This award is a platform to speak about these issues, its not about me, its not about my work, but its about the passion I have to make things better for others who are facing these challenges.


Syrian refugee and political staffer Hanen Nanaa was recently named as one of the Top 25 Canadian Immigrant Award recipients, an achievement she partially credits to her father's influence.

I grew up talking about politics with my dad, Nanaa said. My motivation was my father who encouraged me to always be where I want to be, but also the lack of opportunities for women in Syria (and) also here in Canada.

As Syrian refugees fleeing war, Nanaa and her family faced many challenges once they arrived in Canada in 2016.

It opened so many doors and opportunities for my family and I, she said. I did understand English, but I didnt speak it fluently. So, I had to learn the language here to be able to pursue education and find employment opportunities.

Since arriving in Canada, Nanaa has made a name for herself through founding Books Art Music (BAM) Collective, which aims to empower young people through art and community engagement.

We were able to find employment opportunities for young people but also give them a seat when it comes to decision-making opportunities and really influence powerful decisions when it comes to programming and needs to serve the community.

She also co-founded another collective, Waard Ward, which provides newcomers to Canada with the opportunity to train to become florists.

My father was a florist when we were back in Syria, Nanaa said. But of course, when the war broke out, he was not able to continue to work because the flower industry was heavily affected.

Waard Ward offers workshops for Arabic-speaking newcomers to develop entrepreneurship skills and learn how to make flower arrangements.

There are some gaps for people like my father who dont speak the language, but he is skilled ... he has the potential to contribute to Canada, she said.

As for being recognized in this year's Top 25 Canadian Immigrant Awards, Nanaa said she was surprised to receive the award, as she didnt know she had been nominated.

I dont know who nominated me, but I definitely want to thank that person, Nanaa said. I think this is really important because it shows how the communities, how the public view your work.


When Mustafa Popalzai came to Canada as a refugee from Afghanistan at age 14 in 2000, he never thought he would become a police officer.

I never really interacted with anyone in the police profession for my first 10 years in Canada and that was mainly due to my negative perception about policing and how I saw police or law and authority back in Afghanistan, he said. I never saw it as a profession that was well respected.

But his perception changed in 2012 when he was hired as a civilian employee at the Ottawa Police Service. In 2014, he was hired as a police officer with the Toronto Police Service, where he currently serves as a detective constable with 51 Divisions major crime unit.

I do not have any regrets, Popalzai said about choosing policing as a profession. I cant even imagine myself doing anything else, other than being a professional athlete because I love sports.

Popalzai, who was born in Kabul, Afghanistan in 1986, said he fled the country with his parents and two younger siblings after his father began getting death threats from the Taliban because of his profession. He was an artist, Popalzai said of his father. And the Taliban at the time were not supportive of such a profession.

In August 2021, Popalzai and fellow officer Farzad Ghotbi created Project Hope, which was initially aimed at helping newcomers from Afghanistan but has since broadened to include newcomers from around the world.

The initiative has since donated more than $620,000 worth of goods such as school supplies, hygiene products and baby care items to hundreds of refugee families. The organization recently helped hundreds of refugees housed at a North York church, Revivaltime Tabernacle on Dufferin Street, by providing the church with a large pool of volunteers and more than $20,000 worth of essential items such as new clothing and hygiene products.

Popalzai was recently one of the recipients of the Top 25 Canadian Immigrant Award, a peoples choice awards campaign that celebrates Canadian immigrants.

Its actually quite overwhelming and emotional, he said of the recognition. My message for newcomers and refugees is that now youre in a land where you have tons of opportunities. You have the chance to do something good for your community, for yourself (and) for your family, so take advantage of it.
Did you hear about that place in Canada where people are building 10,000 new homes and selling them for half the price?

That is what is taking place right now in Waterloo Region, one of the epicentres of Canadas housing crisis.

As of May 2023, the average house price in Waterloo Region was $821,828  and climbing fast. Middle-income families are increasingly finding themselves priced out of the housing market and occupying rental housing, which drives up rental prices even further. This crisis, in turn, puts enormous strain on our public services and the ability of local employers to be able to attract and retain workers.

The housing price story in Waterloo Region is far from unique, but what is being done to address it is  from a modern perspective. Today, an entire community is coming together to address the problem of attainable housing at its source. And while this approach might be new for this generations housing crisis, it is taking important lessons from previous generations and how they dealt with theirs.

Canada faced a housing crunch during and immediately following the Second World War. What began as a need to house workers who were mobilized into war industries quickly expanded into a wider crisis as all levels of government struggled to find sufficient housing for returning veterans.

The resulting effort was a historical policy success as builders and governments set aside their respective self-interests to build more than 45,000 new homes across the country in record time. The ability to quickly build this new housing helped preserve social cohesion and launch a postwar economic boom.

The biggest lesson from this experience is that collaboration matters. Even the best of intentions cannot overcome a lack of co-ordination or urgency. In the modern context, it was this urgency that brought different levels of government, businesses and community groups across Waterloo Region together.

Under the stewardship of Habitat for Humanity Waterloo Region, Build Now: Waterloo Region developed around the principle that everybody has something to contribute to the fight for attainable housing.

The government and other partners have land to contribute.

Builders have the skills and labour to build the homes.

Local not-for-profits and charities have experience working with rental providers to ensure that affordable rentals are available.

And the provincial government has the ability to fast-track development approvals and help fund servicing and infrastructure requirements.

The catch is that everybody has to give something up. Municipalities need to make land available for new home builds. The provincial government needs to waive development charges and other fees. And local builders need to be prepared to strip away any price markups outside of the cost of the materials and labour to build the homes.

By controlling these cost drivers alone, it is possible to reduce the price of a new home by 50 per cent.

And we can do this for the long term. Habitat for Humanity Waterloo Region will ensure homeowners can gain the security and equity of home ownership while specifically preventing flipping, investment property acquisition or other profit-seeking market activities that could artificially inflate the resale market. While homeowners will still be able to build equity over time, we will make it clear  these are homes to be lived in and not profited from.

Our experience in Waterloo Region has been that, when shown the right plan, people are prepared to sacrifice their short-term self-interest for the long-term greater good. The result is 10,000 half-price homes to be built by 2030. And best of all, it is a process that can be replicated anywhere.

When an entire community pulls together, anything is possible.

Philip Mills is the CEO for Habitat for Humanity Waterloo Region.
In Like Every Form of Love, a new memoir from multi-talented writer Padma Viswanathan, the Edmonton-raised writer evokes an impressive mix of memory, friendship, true crime  and a detective story where her own skills play an important role.

Its her first foray into true crime, a genre that allows her to employ the breadth of her literary skills  including translations, stories and non-fiction  winning her accolades and a Giller nomination for the novel The Ever After of Ashwin Rao.

This latest book, her account of a difficult friendship, begins in 1997, on an old tugboat in Vancouver Islands Genoa Bay during a break from her disastrous first marriage. A neighbour, Phillip  queer, working class, generous  offers her a ride to Victoria and tells her a spellbinding tale about his childhood.

Deserted by his mother, he was ultimately raised by the housekeeper (whom Phillip calls his stepmother) hired by his abusive father. Warm and glamorous, Del also happens to be living under an assumed name and on the lam from her parole conditions (shed driven the getaway car in a bank robbery). As Phillip tells Viswanathan his story, she is immediately hooked. I hit pay dirt, she writes in her journal, knowing that someday shell write about this unlikely pair, especially ballsy, beguiling Del.

Ignoring the snide energy given off by other marina residents when Phillip is mentioned  since they were all characters of towering eccentricity and outsized opinions themselves  her new friendship rolls on and off for decades. Her writing career takes off, she marries again and has kids, and Phillip, meantime, saves for a condo while working as a nurses aide, eschewing the drugs he took as a young man (before he knew Padma), for antique collecting.

There are warning signs about his reliability, however, from their first cup of tea, which tastes oddly salty. No, he doesnt notice anything, until later admitting hed used salted pasta water for their cups of Red Rose. Padma and Phillip both remembered it later  she because it was strange and he because hed lied. Not everyone seems as intrigued as Padma by Phillip  her husband for one  but the lure of his childhood drama has her hooked.

In the first half of the book, Viswanathan ponders the nature of all friendships, quoting numerous writers and philosophers, from William Hazlitt to Oscar Wilde to Aristotle to Michel de Montaigne. She anchors her text with references to myths and folk tales  Phillip resembles Hans Christian Andersens Ugly Duckling, while she identifies her cleft self as a writer with the creepy Andersen story, The Shadow.

Can a writer and a subject be friends? she asks more than once, signalling the growing tension as she digs persistently into the chequered past that Phillip has presented as gospel.

Some twelve years after they meet, when she sits down to properly interview him, Phillip casually spews bigoted Indigenous slang and antisemitic tropes. Shocked, Padma tries to set him straight, before veering off, referencing Susan Sontag, C.S. Lewis, and later, Janet Malcolm on the relationship between writer Joe McGuiness and the murderer whose friendship he betrayed by publishing a bestseller about him. Whose story is this anyway?

After establishing Phillip and their relationship and friendship, including centring him in the AIDS epidemic (and why he escaped it), she addresses her readers: But I think now if youre inclined to love Phillip at all, I have given you plenty of reasons to do so. If not, its fine. This sentiment may not fly. Perhaps sensing this, she moves briskly onto the true crime that provoked her interest from the start, which proves very fertile ground indeed.

Viswanathan investigates Del, the stepmother  supposedly a communist who robbed banks to help the Cuban revolution  Phillips father, Harvey, who used his former wifes documents to secure his lover a new passport in Mexico City; and the familys trip to Cuba in Phillips youth. She uses newspaper articles, detectives notes and the work of other writers intrigued, as she is, by Del and her story.

Turning her attention to Harvey, she finds him and visits him in Nicaragua, where some startling new information emerges. Was Phillips beloved Del a murderer? A con artist? Nothing is proven, but as his story escapes his control, Phillip turns frosty.

The resulting memoir is painstakingly honest, always complex, sometimes strange: a dive into family history, an unsolved crime, and an unlikely friendship that began more than twenty years before, in a peaceful harbour on Vancouver Island.

Nancy Wigston is a freelance writer in Toronto
Imagine carrying the most irresistible story with you for three decades, filling up your head and your heart with its details until the time feels culturally right to spill it onto the page.

Such is the case with Emma Donoghues Learned By Heart, her glorious, richly imagined, compassionate tale of the early 19th-century adolescent romance between local West Yorkshire polymath Anne Lister (often called the first modern lesbian, 1791-1840) and orphaned biracial heiress Eliza Raine (1791-1860) at Kings Manor school for girls in 1805 York in England.

The award-winning Irish-Canadian writer spoke by phone about her 13th novel from her London, Ont., home, where she recently returned after a years sabbatical in Paris with her family.

As a graduate student 30 years ago at Cambridge University, Donoghue wrote her first play, I Know My Own Heart, about Lister in her 20s. She adapted material from self-made scholar Helena Whitbreads groundbreaking transcription of excerpts from Listers five-million-word coded diary (an extraordinary text that uses algebra and the Greek alphabet), since named a national treasure by UNESCO.

In 2015, Donoghue took a research trip to Yorkshire and toured around Kings Manor, which is where Lister and Raine spent the year as boarding school roommates. Whitbread showed Donoghue Shibden Hall, the Lister familys estate, and the West Yorkshire Archives. There, Donoghue recalls, Whitbread picked up one of the encrypted diaries, turned to a random page and freely translated from it.

Donoghue was making plans then to write the novel, but she said she was still mulling over exactly which slice of the story to tell. Although she began writing chunks from Listers point of view as well as Raines, she quickly realized that she was mostly interested in Raine, because she was the outsider, the one who has been left out of the story.

In 1797, then six-year-old Raine was shipped to England by her British-born father, William, the head surgeon for the East India Company. And, although there are many gaps, the records show that, after her fathers death in 1800, Raine ended up in the care of one of his friends, William Duffin, who had an Indian-born wife, Elizabeth Rule Duffin, and they served as her guardians. Donoghue said, Of Raine weve nothing left except any letters of hers that ended up with the Duffins or with Anne Lister.

Donoghue enjoys the challenge of trying to stay within the bounds of known facts rather than just wholesale invention. So, for Raine, who was born in Chennai, India (then known as Madras), and spent her earliest years there, Donoghue knew from East India Company records where Raines house was and the luxurious setting and what plants were grown. She also had details from other histories of rich white British men who travelled to India and had children with local women. It was a legitimate marriage there, just not the church kind, Donoghue said.

She learned that a rich child like Raine would have been carried around on a palanquin.

Searching for belonging is an abiding theme in the novel. I was interested in focusing on the question: Is it good to be unusual or not? Lister mostly embraced her eccentric qualities, but for someone like Raine it must have been very rough to have been one of the only brown faces in town, Donoghue said.

Remarkably, in the surviving correspondence, Raine only once mentions being a young lady of colour. As a result, Donoghue spent a lot of time thinking about what it was like to have a racialized identity and how the majority culture would make you feel that youre the freak.

The timing was finally right for her to pursue the story because, thanks to Sally Wainwrights recent television series Gentleman Jack (about Listers life in her 40s), Anne Lister scholarship has exploded.

Wainwright has created this amazing feedback loop by harnessing the power of worldwide fans, encouraging them to sign up to transcribe correspondence by Lister and Listers friends, Donoghue said. Many of the volunteers come out of jobs in tech, so its a real harnessing of modern techniques, like sharing databases, she said.

Writing historical fiction, Donoghue has always relied on the work of research scholars, but she has never felt quite so reliant on so many people to write a book as she did with Learned By Heart.

She met genealogist San Ni Riocain, for example, on Twitter, but never in person, because so much of Donoghues research on early 19th-century West Yorkshire was done during pandemic lockdown and depended on the kindness of strangers from afar. I couldnt have written this book without her. She managed to dig up information for me about all the minor characters, like a letter from one of the schoolmistresses, describing the school and the pig that lived downstairs, said Donoghue.

Getting the emotional balance right motivated her throughout the writing. From the age of 23 until her death at 69, Raine stayed in Clifton House Asylum for long stretches of her own volition, her fragile mental health exacerbated by heartbreak. Theres no point in writing a happy teenage story and not mentioning that Raine spent most of her life in the asylum, Donoghue said. I had to find that sweet spot between happiness and sorrow. Between love and loss. I wanted the whole book to ache. I decided it would be set in the school. With letters from the asylum a decade later.

Interestingly, Donoghue used contemporary sources as well as period documents to understand the story. In trying to make sense of Raines years in the asylum, for example, she found a recent article that noted rates of schizophrenia are much higher in places with racial minorities: If youre only one of the ones in town, its likely to be a strain on your mental health.

Correspondence between Raine and Lister is peppered throughout the novel, but it is modelled on real letters. As Donoghue explained, They draw on the ups and downs of her moods. The moments of grandiosity and egotism and the moments of crushing shame and isolation. For example, Raine complains that people are being mean to her because she is having little tables made with her heraldic crest, proud of her family origin, a detail that is so revealing and one that Donoghue would never have discovered without the letters being transcribed for her.

Donoghue also knew that even though the Napoleonic Wars were on during Raine and Listers time at English boarding school, that such a school boasted about how much French they taught. French was their high-status subject.

She wanted to show that both of them seemed very keen on French travel, longing for a post-Napoleonic future when they might travel together to Europe. Also, as a novelist, she said, whenever you have people mulling over translations its great for suggesting how different cultures view things differently: how much gets lost between the words.

On her wishes for the book, Donoghue said, I love when my work about an historical subject prompts others to explore it. With Learned By Heart, she drives to a pitch perfect ending as Eliza closes her final letter to Lister with pensez a moi  think of me.

You certainly will.

Janet Somerville is the author of Yours, for Probably Always: Martha Gellhorns Letters of Love & War 1930-1949, also available in audio, read by Tony Award-winning Ellen Barkin.
JAKARTA, Aug. 29 (Xinhua) -- Two people were killed and six others injured in a minibus-truck collision in Malang regency in Indonesia's East Java province on Tuesday.

Malang Police Adjunct Commissioner Agnis Manurung said the minibus traveling at high speed hit the back of the truck that was overtaking another vehicle in front of it.

"All the victims were minibus passengers. One died at the location, another breathed his last while being treated at the hospital," Manurung said.

The six injured are currently receiving medical treatment at nearby hospitals.

Investigation of the cause of the incident is still underway. 
Hello Everyone Myself Emka Emmanuel Katto from Uganda I am a passionate Ugandan journalist who loves to showcase the beauty of nature and wildlife in Uganda, Africa. Through my blogs, My aims to educate and inspire people about the rich culture and diverse wildlife found in his home country. As a local Ugandan journalist, I am proud to share that my country has been ranked by Buzzfeed as the 13th most beautiful country on earth. This is a remarkable achievement that highlights the natural beauty and diversity of Uganda.



(TRAVPR.COM) KAMPALA, UGANDA - August 28th, 2023 - Hello Everyone Myself Emka Emmanuel Katto from Uganda I am a passionate Ugandan journalist who loves to showcase the beauty of nature and wildlife in Uganda, Africa. Through my blogs, My aims to educate and inspire people about the rich culture and diverse wildlife found in his home country. As a local Ugandan journalist, I am proud to share that my country has been ranked by Buzzfeed as the 13th most beautiful country on earth. This is a remarkable achievement that highlights the natural beauty and diversity of Uganda.

Uganda is a landlocked country located in East Africa, bordered by Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, South Sudan, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The country is blessed with an abundance of natural wonders, including mountains, lakes, rivers, and wildlife.

One of Ugandas most famous natural attractions is the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, home to the endangered mountain gorillas. Visitors can trek through the dense forest to observe these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. The experience is truly awe-inspiring and a must-see for anyone visiting Uganda.

Another must-see destination in Uganda is the Murchison Falls National Park. Here, visitors can witness the mighty Nile River as it plunges through a narrow gorge, creating a stunning waterfall. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants, lions, and giraffes.

Uganda is also known for its vibrant culture and friendly people. Visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture by visiting traditional villages, attending cultural festivals, and sampling the local cuisine.

For those seeking adventure, Uganda offers a range of activities, including white water rafting, bungee jumping, and hiking. The Rwenzori Mountains, also known as the Mountains of the Moon, offer some of the best hiking trails in Africa.

In conclusion, Ugandas ranking as the 13th most beautiful country on earth is well-deserved. As a Ugandan journalist, I am proud to showcase the natural beauty and diversity of my country. Whether you are seeking adventure, wildlife, culture, or simply breathtaking scenery, Uganda has something to offer everyone. Come and discover the beauty of Uganda for yourself!

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Chinese Premier Li Qiang meets with visiting U.S. Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Aug. 29, 2023. (Xinhua/Rao Aimin)

BEIJING, Aug. 29 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Premier Li Qiang met with visiting U.S. Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo on Tuesday in Beijing, calling on both sides to enhance mutually-beneficial cooperation.

Li said the economic and trade relations between China and the United States are mutually beneficial and win-win in nature. Politicizing economic and trade issues and overstretching the concept of security will not only seriously affect bilateral relations and mutual trust, but also undermine the interests of enterprises and people of the two countries, and will have a disastrous impact on the global economy.

Noting that China is the largest developing country and the United States is the largest developed country, Li said the two sides should strengthen mutually beneficial cooperation, reduce friction and confrontation, and jointly promote world economic recovery and cope with global challenges. 
During the full-scale war, the Russian invaders have killed at least 503 children in Ukraine. Another 1,117 children received injuries of various degrees of severity.

"More than 1,620 children have been killed and injured in Ukraine as a result of the full-scale armed aggression of the Russian Federation. As of the morning of August 28, 2023, according to the official information from juvenile prosecutors, 503 children were killed and more than 1,117 received injuries of various degrees of severity," the Prosecutor General's Office posted on Telegram.

As noted, the indicated numbers are not final as the efforts are ongoing to establish the casualties in the areas of military operations, in temporarily captured and liberated territories.

Most children were killed and injured in Donetsk region  485, Kharkiv region  300, Kyiv region  129, Kherson region  122, Zaporizhzhia region  99, Mykolayiv region  97, Dnipropetrovsk region  95, Chernihiv region  71, Luhansk region  67.

In particular, on August 27, a 16-year-old girl was injured in the Russian shelling of the village of Odnorobivka, Bohodukhiv district, Kharkiv region.
Former Foreign Minister Pavlo Klimkin is optimistic about Ukraine's membership in NATO, but does not believe that the Washington summit will decide to invite Ukraine to join the Alliance.

The diplomat said this in a speech at the international scientific and expert conference 'Challenges for Ukraine and the Future of the Russian Empire', an Ukrinform correspondent reported.

The former foreign minister said that, in his opinion, there is no alternative to Ukraine's membership in NATO as the basis of our security today. In his opinion, all other options for ensuring our country's security may be "forced interim temporary realities." At the same time, he advises not to pin high hopes on Ukraine's invitation to join the Alliance at the summit in Washington.

"I am skeptical about the Washington NATO summit and its results, but I am optimistic about the future membership (of Ukraine - ed.) in NATO. I am generally against being tied to summits, as we were tied to expectations from the Vilnius summit, and now we are thinking about Washington," Klimkin said.

According to the former minister, due to a number of factors, the Washington summit is not "the best time, the best reality and the best point" for us to move forward with NATO membership.

"Perhaps this point will be earlier, perhaps later, but I propose not to have endless discussions about summits. For some reason, we think that summits solve something in life. In my experience, summits are just something where everyone gathers, takes pictures, signs or doesn't sign some declarations, and then leaves. That is, summits are not about making decisions," the diplomat said.

Read also: Zelensky meets with Turkish Foreign Minister and discusses preparations for Global Peace Summit

As reported, President Volodymyr Zelensky emphasized during a meeting with heads of foreign diplomatic missions that Ukraine should already be preparing for the North Atlantic Alliance summit in Washington, D.C., which will be held next year.
Ukrainian defenders continue gaining a foothold in the Zaporizhzhia regions de-occupied village of Robotyne.

The relevant statement was made by Spokesperson for the Joint Press Center of the Defense Forces in the Tavria direction Oleksandr Shtupun during a nationwide telethon, an Ukrinform correspondent reports.

We continue gaining a foothold in Robotyne. Stabilization measures and demining efforts are underway, as well as preparations for further actions. Over the past day, our warriors have gained some success to the southeast of this settlement, Shtupun told.

In his words, following the de-occupation of Robotyne, Ukraine can send more troops there and have better maneuvering opportunities. Also, Robotyne is situated on the highway to Tokmak, which makes it an important logistic route.

Tokmak is located around 20 kilometers away from Robotyne. Shtupun believes Russians will not leave this settlement easily, and Ukrainian forces will have to fight for it.
This photo taken in August 2023 shows scientists working in the Taklimakan Desert in northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. (Chinese Academy of Sciences/Handout via Xinhua)

URUMQI, Aug. 29 (Xinhua) -- In the middle of China's largest desert, Taklimakan Desert in the northwest Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, stands a research station. Baked by the scorching sun, the station is surrounded by endless yellow sand.

Situated in this harsh environment, it is an important field research station in China that penetrates deep into the hinterland of the flowing desert. Scientists go there to carry out various kinds of experimental research in the fields of wind and sand science, as well as plant adversity ecology.

Tanned after years of working at the research station, Gao Xin, a researcher with Xinjiang Institute of Ecology and Geography (XIEG) under the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), is in charge of a project focused on conducting surveys and risk assessments for drought and sand hazards in the Tarim River basin.

His team has been using a large environmental drill rig to drill beneath the sand-covered land to gather samples of sedimentary rock core. Layer upon layer, these core samples show the researchers what environmental events have occurred in the Taklimakan Desert during various geological periods in history.

Scientists believe that this unprecedented research method can provide the most direct record of the desert evolution.

"We are in the middle of the Taklimakan Desert, and the cores here best represent the desert. With our drill rig, we pull out the strata pipe by pipe, to reconstruct the formation process of the Taklimakan over millions of years," said Wang Xin, a researcher at Lanzhou University.

"The Taklimakan Desert has a huge impact on climate, and it's not well known exactly how its own climatic environment evolved," he added.

For Wang, this desert holds many secrets. Was it dry or wet during global warming? What kind of changes were there during the glacial period? How does it influence the climate? He hopes to find clues through this research.

Led by the XIEG, the project also involves researchers from various other institutes including Lanzhou University, the Institute of Geographic Sciences and Natural Resources Research of CAS, and the Urumqi Institute of Desert Meteorology under the China Meteorological Administration.

Through preliminary research, scientists have discovered that the land in the middle of the Taklimakan Desert was not always scorching hot, and there were once rivers and oases in this area.

Through the in-depth investigation of the formation and evolution of the Taklimakan Desert, we can deeply understand the formation and evolution of large deserts driven by global change and plateau uplift, said Gao.

"Our research can also provide a scientific decision-making basis for this region to cope with climate change and draw up a green development plan," he added.

According to the XIEG, the project is also a part of the third comprehensive scientific expedition in Xinjiang. The ongoing scientific expedition, which was launched in 2021 and is due to last for five years, is expected to outline a roadmap for ecological construction and green development in Xinjiang for the next 30 years.

"Xinjiang's high-quality development faces many opportunities and challenges. It must be supported by scientific data to fill in the areas for which information was previously lacking. Therefore, it is a strategic need to carry out comprehensive scientific surveys," said Zhou Xiaobing, a researcher at the XIEG. 
Commander of the Joint Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, Lieutenant General Serhii Naiev does not rule out the possibility of provocations and sabotage actions at the Ukrainian-Belarusian border.

The relevant statement was made by the Joint Forces Command of the Armed Forces of Ukraine on Telegram, an Ukrinform correspondent reports.

According to Naiev, the situation at the border with Belarus is fully controlled by Ukrainian forces, and no rapid changes are expected there.

Naiev mentioned that Russias ground component had been fully withdrawn from Belarus and is now part of the reserve of the joint grouping of Russian troops involved in the enemys offensive in the Kupiansk and Lyman directions.

However, a series of CSTO training exercises have been scheduled within the territory of Belarus for September 2023, and they can be used to legitimize the increase in military presence.

As Russia failed to achieve its strategic goals, Naiev does not rule out that the aggressor will continue to seek for the new reasons to resume active actions from the northern direction. Therefore, the enemy may organize provocations and sabotage actions at the Ukrainian-Belarusian border.

At the same time, Naiev emphasized that no signs of forming strike groupings within the control area of the North Operational Strategic Group of Troops had been detected. But, in view of potential risks from the territory of Belarus, the Ukrainian side is taking measures to increase its countersabotage and defense capabilities.
Border guards have confirmed that mines near the border with Belarus were detonated by lightning.

Andriy Demchenko, a spokesman for the State Border Guard Service, said this in a comment to Ukrinform.

"Several mines detonated from a minefield on one of the sections of the border with Belarus due to lightning, no one was injured," Demchenko said.

According to him, there are strict restrictions on the state border for anyone other than units of the Ukrainian Defense Forces. "Therefore, minefields threaten only those who want to come to us with war," added Demchenko.

According to media reports, at about 3:30 a.m. on August 29, several TM-62M anti-tank mines detonated on a railway bridge 800 meters from the Slovechno railway station.

"It is reported that it was preliminarily caused by a lightning strike. The explosion damaged the bridge pillars and destroyed the railroad tracks in both directions. There is no information about the victims," wrote 'Belaruski Gayun'.
Slovakia has signed an agreement with the Swiss branch of the American company Westinghouse to supply nuclear fuel for its nuclear power plants. The country is also looking for another source in France. This will allow Slovakia to get rid of its dependence on fuel from Russia.

According to Ukrinform, Euractiv reported this.

"Securing another supplier of nuclear fuel for our power plants is an important step towards strengthening Slovakias energy security," Branislav Strycek, CEO of Slovenske elektrarne, said.

Almost 60% of the energy produced by Slovakia comes from nuclear power plants that receive exclusively Russian nuclear fuel.

However, after an agreement is signed between Slovenske elektrarne and the Swiss branch of the American company Westinghouse to provide the only fully Western alternative for energy supplies, Slovakia will be able to refuse nuclear fuel from Russia.

The new fuel must first be approved for use in Slovak nuclear reactors. If the results are positive, nuclear fuel from the alternative country will be delivered to Slovakia within a year.

Slovenske elektrarne is seeking to attract at least one additional energy fuel supplier. In May, the company signed a memorandum of cooperation with the French company Framatom, pointing to another potential source, the article says.

The agreement between the Slovak and American companies was concluded as part of the EU's efforts to end its dependence on Russian energy.

As reported, Prime Minister of Moldova Dorin Recean announced Moldova's complete rejection of Russian gas.
In 2022, tobacco companies Philip Morris International and Japan Tobacco International received $7.9 billion and $7.4 billion in revenue from the sale of their products in Russia.

Dmytro Kupyra, executive director of the NGO Zhyttia (lit. Life) announced this at Ukrinform.

"According to the Kyiv School of Economics, in 2022, Philip Morris became the first company to receive the largest revenue among all companies in Russia, and Japan Tobacco was the second. Accordingly, the first company received $7.9 billion in revenue, and the other, $7.4 billion," he said.

The expert emphasized that the lion's share of the companies' revenue is taxes that will be paid to the Russian budget.

"Thus, the Russian government will be able to use them or is already using them to wage war against Ukraine, including attacks on peaceful cities of Ukraine," Kupyra added.

In his turn, Andrii Pozniak, expert at the National Agency on Corruption Prevention (NACP), reminded that the NACP has already added Philip Morris International and Japan Tobacco International to the list of international sponsors of war.

"I would like to note that our instrument of war sponsors is a reputational one. That is, it is not a sanction. We understand that in today's world, a multinational corporation's brand is all they have. Our task is not to punish business but to help them choose the path of integrity, the path of socially responsible business and democracy," the NACP representative explained.

He also said that 36 international companies have already been included in the list.

Read also: Heineken sells its assets in Russia

"How can one get out of this list of war sponsors? First, the company must condemn Russian war of aggression against Ukraine. Secondly, the company must stop doing business in Russia or stop cooperating with Russia. Thirdly, the company must present a clear plan with specific dates for its gradual withdrawal from Russia. This should be officially stated, it should be guarantees, both verbal and written," Pozniak stated.

At the same time, Lada Bulakh, a member of the Servant of the People parliamentary faction, emphasized that adding Philip Morris International and Japan Tobacco International to the register of international sponsors of war is a logical step for our country "not in the context of fighting the harmful effects of tobacco but in the context of overcoming and bringing our victory closer."

"Over the past year, these two tobacco companies have earned over $15 billion in profits alone. An excise tax was paid on each pack of cigarettes, which means that these companies are active participants in financing the war in Ukraine through their economic activities in the aggressor country," the MP noted.

Read also: NACP adds Alibaba Group Holding Limited to list of war sponsors

Bulakh said that there was information that Philip Morris International intends to build a new plant in Lviv, investing $30 million.

"To me, it sounds as cynical as possible: by earning and paying excise taxes in the aggressor country, the manufacturer is trying to expand production and sales of its products in Ukraine," she stated.

Bulach emphasized that the Ukrainian government should respond decisively by stopping the company's investments in the Ukrainian economy.

"We have to make a decision and ban any development, and possibly distribution, of the products of these two tobacco companies in Ukraine," she summarized.

As Ukrinform reported, the NACP has added Philip Morris International and Japan Tobacco International, the world's leading tobacco companies, to the list of international sponsors of war, as they continue to do business in Russia.
Ukraine will fight to ensure that there are no restrictions on the export of its grain to the EU.

Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine Dmytro Kuleba said this during a press conference with his Czech counterpart Jan Lipavsky in Prague on Monday, an Ukrinform correspondent reports.

The Minister reminded: the restrictions are expected to be lifted on September 15, their validity period will end. However, the voices of a group of neighboring countries are being heard: if it comes to that, they will introduce their own national restrictions.

"We are absolutely and categorically against this," the Ukrainian politician emphasized.

He explained that such a step would violate the principles of the internal market, it would contradict the EU-Ukraine Association Agreement and, above all, this step was against the principle of EU solidarity on which this organization is based.

Kuleba called on the relevant countries "not to hold the issue of grain export hostage to the processes of their domestic politics."

At the same time, Ukraines top diplomat assured that Kyiv was ready to work with those countries in search of a solution to the problem and sincerely hoped to avoid the conflict. Kuleba emphasized that Ukraine was extremely grateful for the humanitarian and security assistance provided to our country, but he stressed that if those countries continued to act in this way in this matter, they would leave Ukraine "no other option than to resolutely defend its rights and the rights of Ukrainian farmers."

As reported, Bulgaria, Hungary, Poland, Romania, and Slovakia asked the European Union to ban the import of Ukrainian grain, which expires on September 15, at least until the end of the year "to avoid serious disruptions in the market." The countries asked to ban the import of four Ukrainian products  wheat, maize, rapeseed, and sunflower seed. At the same time, transit supplies continue.
South Korea will provide 520 billion won ($394 million) in financial assistance to Ukraine in 2024.

Thats according to Reuters, Ukrinform reports.

The aid package includes 130 billion won for reconstruction, 260 billion in humanitarian aid and another 130 billion won through international organisations, according to South Korea's 2024 budget.

In July, President Yoon Suk Yeol announced his country would provide a "large scale of military supplies" this year without giving more details.

Today, Yoon also announced an increase in South Korea's Official Development Assistance for strategic areas, including the Asia-Pacific region and Africa, from 1.4 trillion won to 2 trillion won ($1.51 billion).

It is noted that the increase in overseas assistance is part of an effort to help South Korean companies branch out abroad and secure national interests, such as the supply chains, and to take responsibility as a key member of the global community, the Ministry of Economy and Finance said in the budget announcement.

As reported by Ukrinform, the government of South Korea pledges support to state-owned and private companies in the restoration of the war-ravaged transport and energy infrastructure in Ukraine.
About 270,000 tonnes of grain were destroyed in the Danube and Odesa seaports as a result of Russian shelling.

Denys Marchuk, deputy head of Ukrainian Agrarian Council, stated this during a briefing at Ukrinform.

"After the termination of the grain initiative, there were over 8 attacks on the port infrastructure of Odesa and the Danube, which led to the loss of about 270,000 tonnes of grain that was contracted and was supposed to go to foreign markets," he said.

Marchuk noted that Ukraine can export up to 2 million tonnes of agricultural products per month through the Danube seaports. The capacity of the ports can potentially be increased to 3 million tonnes per month.

Read also: Turkiye sees alternative routes for grain exports from Ukraine as risky

As Ukrinform reported, the agreement on the extension of the Initiative for the Safe Transportation of Agricultural Products through the Black Sea, signed by Ukraine, the United Nations and Turkiye in July 2022, expired on July 18, 2023. A similar agreement was signed by the UN, Turkiye and Russia.

On July 17, 2023, the Russian side sent its objections to Turkiye, Ukraine, and the UN against the extension of the grain deal and de facto terminated it.
The so-called secret meeting of Ukraines Commander-in-Chief Valery Zaluzhnyi and NATO commanders was in fact a routine event, one of the many such conversations whose content never makes it into the media space.

This was stated by the adviser to the head of the President's Office, Mykhailo Podolyak, who spoke on the air of the national telethon, Ukrinform reports with reference to NV.ua.

"This meeting was secret for the media. Zaluzhnyi is in active contact with representatives from our partners Ministries of Defense or General Staffs  almost every day," said Podolyak.

According to the advisor, such meetings are held because it is necessary to constantly adjust tactics and strategies, see what Russia is doing, and explain to partners what Ukraine requires, (finding out - ed.) whether the military can expect additional missiles, additional front-line air defense capabilities, or even F- 16s.

"These consultations are ongoing. Moreover, they are held with our partners from the US and UK. But what exactly the parties are talking about will not be discussed on the air," the advisor emphasized.

It should be recalled that on August 26, The Guardian said NATO command held an unpublicized meeting on the Polish border with the Commander-in-Chief of Ukraines Armed Forces, Valery Zaluzhnyi.
Switzerland will send a remote-controlled demining machine to Ukraine.

The Federal Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sport (DDPS) is providing the State Emergency Service of Ukraine (SESU) with a remote-controlled demining machine to safely and efficiently clear areas that have been contaminated with mines, cluster munitions and explosive remnants of war since the outbreak of the conflict, reads the press release on the website of the Swiss government.

The machine was presented to the DDPS by the Swiss DIGGER Foundation on 29 August and is now ready for delivery to Ukraine by the Van for Life Foundation.

The entire aid package worth CHF 1.2 million (over $1.3 million) includes a caterpillar vehicle that can destroy or detonate anti-personnel mines, a truck trailer and a spare parts package for three years. In addition, the Ukrainian authorities will be trained on site by experts from the DIGGER Foundation.

As reported, Swiss company Global learance Solutions (GCS) announced its intention to deliver about 20 demining machines to Ukraine this year.

Photo taken from the website of the Swiss government
JERUSALEM, Aug. 29 (Xinhua) -- Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant on Tuesday urged the United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres to act to calm tensions along the Israel-Lebanon border to prevent a possible escalation.

The two met at the UN Headquarters in New York, according to a statement issued by the Israeli Defense Ministry.

Gallant told Guterres that the growing tensions on Israel's northern border are a result of "ongoing provocations and flagrant violations by the Hezbollah," referring mainly to the erection of a Hezbollah tent in what he said was Israeli territory. He said Hezbollah has established "dozens" of military compounds along the border and increased patrols by its combatants.

On the other hand, Lebanon said Israel violated its sovereignty by erecting a barbed wire fence and a cement wall surrounding the border-straddling village of Ghajar.

The Israeli minister called for an "immediate" intervention by the UN to de-escalate tensions, adding that the presence of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), a UN peacekeeping force, in the region should be strengthened.

Gallant warned that Israel "will not tolerate increasing threats to the security of its citizens, and will act as required in their defense."

Guterres has reportedly met with the Lebanese Foreign Minister Abdallah Bouhabib in New York on Monday, according to Israel's Kan TV news. 
Climate technology company Partanna has announced a key partnership with the Diriyah Company under which the duo will actively explore the use of its carbon-negative building materials throughout the $63.2-billion mega Saudi project Diriyah project, as part of a collaboration agreement signed recently in Riyadh.

Partanna, founded by award-winning architect Sam Marshall and former 3-time champion of the LA Lakers Rick Fox, has pioneered the worlds first carbon-negative concrete, which avoids emissions during its manufacturing process and naturally removes carbon.

Through this collaboration, Partanna is seeking to support Diriyah Companys vision of establishing Diriyah as a world-leading example of sustainability.

Three centuries ago, Diriyah served as the cultural and commercial crossroads of the Middle East. It was the birthplace of the first Saudi State and the original home of House Al Saud. Spanning 14 sq km, the project aims to transform Diriyah into a global tourism hub.

With a strong commitment to sustainability, it is anticipated to attract more than 27 million tourists annually by 2030.

Partanna's innovative building materials will help realize this vision. The firm plans to establish manufacturing facilities in Saudi Arabia, to serve the Diriyah project and others.

Diriyah Company Group CEO Jerry Inzerillo said: "With sustainability at the heart of our vision, we are delighted to sign this collaboration agreement with Partanna. This partnership signifies a milestone for sustainable development and demonstrates Diriyahs Companys commitment to best practices at all levels."

"Most importantly, partnering with Partanna will support Diriyah Companys vision of establishing Diriyah, The City of Earth as a world-leading example of sustainability," he stated.

Partannas Co-founder Rick Fox said: "This partnership marks a new era in sustainable construction. Our carbon-negative binder technology is poised to fundamentally transform the way the world builds and represents an environmentally restorative and cost-effective alternative to cement."

"The company's proprietary concrete formula, made from recycled ingredients, captures carbon dioxide, and permanently mineralizes it within the material using the power of chemistry," he stated.

"This technology has the potential to address the environmental impact of desalination by converting waste brine, generated by desalination plants, into a carbon-dioxide absorbing, non-toxic, usable material that supports marine life," he added.

Currently, 70% of Saudi Arabia's drinking water comes from desalination plants. If implemented on a large scale, Partanna's technology could remove millions of units of CO2 daily, reduce the amount of brine that ends up in oceans and waterways, and provide increased freshwater support.

The collaboration agreement establishes a framework for Partanna to supply carbon-removing concrete products and materials to Diriyah Company within the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

It also sets the stage for negotiating commercial terms for Diriyah Company to purchase these innovative concrete products from Partanna. Furthermore, Diriyah will focus on sourcing most of its building materials within the kingdom.-TradeArabia News Service
U.S. President Donald Trump speaks to reporters before leaving the White House in Washington D.C., the United States, on Oct. 25, 2019. (Photo by Ting Shen/Xinhua)

"I want to note here that setting a trial date does not depend and should not depend on the defendant's personal or professional obligations," says Tanya Chutkan.

WASHINGTON, Aug. 28 (Xinhua) -- A U.S. federal judge on Monday set March 4, 2024 for former President Donald Trump's trial on charges of attempting to overturn the 2020 election.

That is one day before "Super Tuesday," a potentially decisive date in the Republican presidential nominating contest, when more than a dozen states, from California to Texas, will pick the party's candidate for the 2024 election.

In a hearing on Monday, U.S. District Judge Tanya Chutkan rejected trial dates proposed by both the Justice Department and Trump's legal team.

Earlier, special counsel Jack Smith had asked for Trump's trial to begin on Jan. 2, 2024, while the former president's lawyers had asked for a trial date in April 2026.

"I want to note here that setting a trial date does not depend and should not depend on the defendant's personal or professional obligations," Chutkan said.

Trump is the first former U.S. president to face criminal charges. He has been indicted in four cases -- two by the Justice Department, and two by state prosecutors in New York and Georgia, seperately. The federal election subversion prosecution is one of four criminal cases against him.

A New York judge has set the trial date of March 25 for the criminal case against the former president surrounding the hush money payments to an adult film star.

In Florida, the trial on charges that Trump mishandled classified documents after leaving office has been set for May 2024.

The federal judge's latest decision could have a crucial impact on Trump's bid for recapturing the White House as well as the Republican presidential nominating calendar. 
MEXICO CITY, Aug. 28 (Xinhua) -- Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador on Monday accused Ron DeSantis, governor of the U.S. state of Florida, of "very base politicking" after the Republican presidential candidate made insensitive remarks about the Latin American country.

DeSantis displayed an even "more anti-immigrant" stance than former U.S. President Donald Trump, said Lopez Obrador during his daily press conference.

"This Mr. DeSantis wants to be even farther to the right than Trump, that is why he appears more anti-immigrant than Trump ... very base, cheap, shabby politicking," said Lopez Obrador in response to a query from journalists.

DeSantis recently said that if elected president, he would send special forces into Mexico on day one to fight the drug cartels.

The presidential candidate is trailing in the polls and resorting to sensationalist statements to make headlines and drum up support for himself, said Lopez Obrador.

"Since we are in that campaign season, they talk about intervening in Mexico's affairs, about not respecting our sovereignty. They insult us, but we must not take them very seriously," he added.

The 2024 U.S. presidential election is set to be held on Nov. 5, 2024. 
Inter-Agency Meeting on Outer Space Activities:

2023, Forty-second session

17-18 October 2023, Brindisi, Italy

Introduction

The United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs is pleased to announce that the forty-second session of UN-Space will be held from 17 to 18 October 2023 in collaboration with the Service for Geospatial, Information and Telecommunications Technologies at the United Nations Global Service Centre ( UNGSC) in Brindisi, Italy. This is the first time the meeting will be held in Brindisi, and UN-Space looks forward to leveraging new related opportunities for cooperation.

UN-Space would also like to take this opportunity to encourage entities of the United Nations system, in line with General Assembly resolution 77/121 of 12 December 2022 (A/RES/77/121) to participate, as appropriate, in UN-Space coordination efforts.

Forty-second session of UN-Space

A two-day dedicated meeting of UN-Space, open to the participation of United Nations entities only, will be held from 17 to 18 October 2023.The meeting will include orientations on the latest developments in the peaceful uses of outer space, as well as discussions on UN-Space interlinkages with the Our Common Agenda Policy Brief 7, For All Humanity - the Future of Outer Space Governance.

Following on the joint meeting of the Committee on Earth Observation Satellites (CEOS) Working Group on Capacity-building and Data Democracy and UN-Space, held in March 2023, which focused on the identification of needs of Member States and United Nations entities for capacity-building in the use of space-based observations, the UN-Space secretariat will also include, as a portion of the forty-second session, a full day of demonstrations of technologies and training on tools to meet such needs. This will take place on 17 October and include a hands-on computer lab component. (Virtual participation in the training is also possible. Please contact the UN-Space Secretariat for details.)

Relevant documents for the meeting include:
(@FahadShabbir)

(UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News / WAM - 29th Aug, 2023) AMDJARASS, Chad, 29th August, 2023 (WAM)  The UAE-funded field hospital in the Chadian city of Amdjarass continues supporting Sudanese refugees in the Republic of Chad by offering medical services to various segments of Sudanese individuals and local community members.

Since its inauguration, the hospital has received a total of 6,110 cases, and the medical team has successfully performed 54 surgeries.

The UAE humanitarian team in Amdjarass conducted an on-site visit to the hospital to check on the patient's conditions, provide psychological support, and closely monitor their health status.

The patients, in turn, praised the exceptional healthcare services and medical staff who provided the highest standards of professionalism.

The humanitarian team comprises personnel from the Emirates Red Crescent, Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan Charitable and Humanitarian Foundation, and Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan Foundation in coordination with the UAE's Office for Aid Coordination in Chad.
Brussels, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 29th Aug, 2023 ) :A forest blaze in Greece is "the largest wildfire ever recorded in the EU" and the bloc is mobilising nearly half its firefighting air wing to tackle it, a European Commission spokesman said Tuesday.

Eleven planes and one helicopter from the EU fleet have been sent to help Greece counter fires in the Dadia National Park, north of the city of Alexandroupoli, along with 407 firefighters, spokesman Balazs Ujvari said.

Greece's fire service told AFP that "the fire is still out of control" in the reserve, a major sanctuary for birds of prey. It is raging across a nearly 10-kilometre (six-mile) front.

The EU currently calls on a fleet of 28 aircraft -- 24 water-dumping planes and four helicopters -- supplied by member countries to help battle blazes in the bloc and in nearby neighbours.

It is working on creating a standalone, EU-funded air wing of 12 aircraft that will be fully in place by 2030.

"We do know that fires are getting more severe," Ujvari noted.

"If you look at the figures every year in the past years, we are seeing trends which are not necessarily favourable, and that calls for of course more capacities at the member states' level."Greece has been ravaged by numerous fires this summer which the government attributes to climate change.

The EU air deployment "underscores our commitment to swift and effective collective action in times of crisis," the EU's commissioner for crisis management, Janez Lenarcic, said.
(@Abdulla99267510)

A top court three-member bench headed by Justice Ijazul Ahsan will hear the case of the PTI chairman.

ISLAMABAD: (UrduPoint/UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News-August 29th, 2023) Supreme Court three-member bench headed by Justice Ijazul Ahsan will hear the PTI's plea challenging the Lahore High Court's ruling on the Toshakhana case today

Previously, the Lahore High Court had deemed the government's practice of auctioning Toshakhana items for specific individuals as unlawful. In response, the PTI government appealed against this decision in the Supreme Court.

Earlier in the day, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman and former Prime Minister Imran Khan re-arrested immediately after suspension of his sentence in the Toshakhana criminal case.

The arrest was made in connection to the cipher case, leading to his placement on judicial remand until August 30. The decision was rendered by Judge Abul Hasnat Zulqarnain of the Official Secrets Act court.

The verdict was transmitted in writing to the superintendent of Attock Jail, with an order to present Imran Khan before the court on August 30. The judge emphasized that the defendant is under judicial remand concerning a case governed by the Official Secrets Act.

Accordingly, the defendant should remain incarcerated and be brought before the court on the specified date.

Just moments prior, the Islamabad High Court had suspended the sentence of Imran Khan in the Toshakhana criminal case. A division bench headed by IHC Chief Justice Aamir Farooq and Justice Tariq Mahmood Jahangiri approved Imran Khan's appeal, culminating in the decision to release him from jail. In order to secure his release, the PTI chief was required to submit bail bonds amounting to Rs100,000.

The high court's division bench had concluded deliberations on Monday regarding Imran Khan's plea to suspend his sentence in the Toshakhana case, reserving the verdict to be announced today at 11am.

During the preceding hearing, Amjad Pervaiz, representing the Election Commission of Pakistan, had presented his arguments. He pointed out that Imran Khan had concealed Toshakhana-related information in his asset disclosures and subsequently opposed the appeal for suspending the sentence. Pervaiz underscored the necessity to notify the public prosecutor in the case and requested that the hearing not proceed without involving the state and considering their perspective.

The chief justice responded that complainants are typically not made parties in NAB cases, and the state's presence is manifested through a bureau prosecutor. Pervaiz argued that the term "complainant" is absent in the law; only the state is referred to. He further contended that no precedent exists where a complaint about corrupt practices was submitted to a magistrate.

Pervaiz highlighted that all members of the Election Commission of Pakistan had unanimously endorsed the filing of the complaint as per their decision. He also mentioned that out of 44 trial court hearings, Imran Khan had appeared in only four.

The counsel for Imran Khan argued that the case was politically motivated as the PTI chairman did not conceal anything and also did not commit anything unlawful.
USM Professor Earns Grant to Study How Climate Change Affects Dryland Crops

Tue, 08/29/2023 - 01:12pm | By: Van Arnold

Dr. Dmitri Mavrodi, Associate Professor of cell and molecular biology at The University of Southern Mississippi (USM), has been awarded a $687,799 grant from the USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) to study the effects of climate change on dryland crops.

The three-year grant is part of a recent $12 million investment made by NIFA to advance research in agricultural microbiomes. Nineteen projects were chosen for funding. Microbiome research is critical for improving agricultural productivity, sustainability of agricultural ecosystems, safety of the food supply, carbon sequestration in agricultural systems, and meeting the challenge of feeding a rapidly growing world population.

Mavrodis research will include collaboration with scientists from the USDA-ARS Plant Science Research Unit at St. Paul, Minn., and the USDA-ARS Wheat Health, Genetics and Quality Research Unit at Pullman, Wash.

He points out that climate change is a critical global concern for farmers in the 21st Century.

Dryland cropping systems occupy over 40 percent of the Earths land surface and are especially vulnerable to droughts, temperature fluctuations, fertility loss, and erosion associated with climate change, said Mavrodi. Drylands are inhabited by half-a-billion people and provide an important source of pasture for livestock, legumes, and cereals.

Research funded by the award will address the gaps in knowledge by focusing on the agroecosystem of the Inland Pacific Northwest, which provides an excellent model for studying the interdependence of dryland crops and their associated microbiomes.

This region is experiencing an unprecedented heat wave and drought that resulted in record-low harvests of small grains and hay, said Mavrodi. Our research aims to understand how water stress and monoculture shape the interactions between two economically important crops (wheat and alfalfa), microbial communities, and soilborne plant pathogens.

He added, The research will combine field and greenhouse experiments with cutting-edge genomics and metabolomics technologies to study how microbiomes of dryland crops differ from microbial communities of plants from well-watered soils and to characterize beneficial microbes that control pathogens and improve drought-tolerance in plants.

Mavrodi explains that the research will provide lasting benefits that will aid in identifying various factors that affect agricultural plant productivity.

The expected new knowledge will complement plant breeding efforts by providing a basis for the rational exploitation of beneficial soil microorganisms to improve crop performance, especially as climate change impacts the productivity of agroecosystems worldwide, he said.
Showcasing University of Wyoming computing research and exploring how computing can create economic opportunities for the state will be central to the inaugural Wyoming Computing Symposium from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 13, in the Wyoming Union.

The symposium, Emerging Computing Approaches, Technologies and Applications, is sponsored by the UW School of Computing and Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science. It will be part of the 2023 Wyoming Blockchain Stampede and WyoBuildathon Sept. 11-15, presented by the UW Center for Blockchain and Digital Innovation.

The symposium is free and open to the public. Preregistration is encouraged. To register and view the agenda, visit www.uwyo.edu/stampede.

We are excited to launch our first Wyoming Computing Symposium to be co-hosted with the Wyoming Blockchain Stampede, says Gabrielle Allen, a professor and director of the School of Computing. The symposium will focus on new computing areas that are important in Wyoming and beyond, including distributed computing and blockchain.

Allen says the symposium will highlight the growing expertise in computing across our academic units, including the new School of Computing and the departments of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, and Mathematics and Statistics.

I am excited to have some of our students share their amazing research and applications, says Bryan Shader, a professor of mathematics and interim head of the Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science. If you want to be wowed and feel good about UW, I encourage you to attend the poster sessions and the round of lightning talks. UW students and faculty are doing amazing things for Wyoming in computing.

UW President Ed Seidel will deliver opening remarks, followed by keynote speakers, panels and faculty short talks throughout the day.

Keynote speakers are Mary Hall, director of the Kahlert School of Computing at the University of Utah, and Rabia Yazicigil, an assistant professor of electrical and computer engineering and faculty affiliate of the Center for Information and Systems Engineering at Boston University. Hall specializes in compilers and automatic parallelization. Yazicigil works in secure energy-constrained devices with applications in health care and Internet of Things at Boston University.

Advancing the Wyoming Economy Through Computing: Vision, Opportunities and Challenges will be the topic of a panel moderated by Diksha Shukla, an assistant professor in UWs Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science.

Input Output Global is the title sponsor for the Wyoming Blockchain Stampede. Event sponsors are Microsoft, Custodia Bank, Crypto.com, Ava Labs and the Wyoming chapter of Americans for Prosperity.

Those who register for the Wyoming Computing Symposium and Wyoming Blockchain Stampede can use their registration badge to gain free access to a concert by country music performer Travis Denning at 8 p.m. Friday, Sept. 15, in the UW Indoor Practice Facility.
WELLINGTON, Aug. 29 (Xinhua) -- New Zealand scientists have tried to save kakapo, a nocturnal, flightless, critically endangered New Zealand parrot, through genome sequencing.

Scientists have sequenced the genomes of 169 kakapo, which were nearly all of the individuals that were alive when the researchers started the work in 2018, according to a study published Tuesday in the international journal Nature Ecology and Evolution.

High-quality sequencing of nearly the entire kakapo population, funded through the University of Otago's Genomics Aotearoa project, is helping New Zealand to manage the health of this critically endangered species.

By diving deep into the bird's DNA, scientists can now better predict the culprits behind their dwindling numbers, such as genetic vulnerabilities to diseases or reproductive issues, the study showed.

The researchers said the cutting-edge techniques can also serve as a conservation blueprint for other endangered species. 
Somali government forces Monday retreated from towns and villages captured in recent months after the al-Shabab militant group carried out a deadly attack on a newly captured base in the village of Cowsweyne.

Two Somali government officials who did not want to be identified because they are not allowed to comment on sensitive military operations told VOA Somali that government troops retreated from El Dheer, Masagaway, Gal'ad and Budbud.

Without naming towns, Somali government commander Major Ismail Abdimalik said troops pulled back from some previously captured areas.

"There are small strategic retreats," he said while defending the strategy.

The retreat followed what appears to be one of the deadliest attacks by al-Shabab on Somali government forces Saturday in Cowsweyne, where troops had initially dislodged al-Shabab on Aug. 22.

Somali government officials have avoided giving details of the attack, but multiple security sources who did not want to be identified said the two brigades that captured Cowsweyne suffered heavy losses. A local official described the attack in Cowsweyne as "painful."

Al-Shabab released a statement claiming to have "overrun" the base, killing 178 soldiers, and capturing prisoners. That claim has not been independently verified.

An al-Shabab official in central Somalia, Yusuf Isse Kabakutukade, Monday claimed the attack on Cowsweyne was a "historic victory."

He said Somali government leaders had underestimated the militants saying, "it's a small group, we are going to round them up."

He boasted that al-Shabab fighters seized a large quantity of weapons in Cowsweyne that the group can use them fight for years to come.

Somali officials said the militants attacked Cowsweyne using explosions from vehicle-borne explosive devices, or car bombs, followed by an attack by armed militants who engaged in heavy gun battles with government forces.

The state-run Somali National News Agency said government forces repelled the attack and destroyed the car bombs. But a purported al-Shabab video of the attack published Monday shows multiple dead bodies scattered in the base.

The capture of Cowsweyne, 60 kilometers northwest of El Dheer town, was part of a Somali government effort to remove the group from central Somalia and push the militants to the south.

Despite the retreat, brigades from Somali government forces are still holding the town of Elbur, which they captured on Aug. 25.

Elbur is deep inside al-Shabab territory and was one of two main targets for the government forces. The troops that were preparing to capture the second main target, Galhareri were the same two brigades attacked in Cowsweyne.

"Elbur is calm, the army is clearing it, they are ready to defend themselves," says Abdimalik who was one of the government commanders leading the capture of Elbur.

"They are a reliable force capable of defeating against any force that attacks them. Reports suggesting they are besieged are fake," he added.

A foreign diplomat based in Mogadishu, commenting on the attack on Cowsweyne, said he believes the military offensive will not stop.

"I think that there are some lessons to be learned, but the operations will continue," he said. "The determination is there."

The President of Somalia, Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, has been spearheading the latest military push into al-Shabab territory. Mohamud has been in Dhusamareb, the central Galmudug state regional capital to encourage the troops and military offensive.

During a town hall meeting on Aug. 17, he said the plan is to remove al-Shabaab within five months.

He also said it will be unacceptable and disrespectful of the soldiers who shed their blood if al-Shabab were to return to towns recaptured from the group.

Al-Shabab militants have been withdrawing from towns and villages and retreating into the bush with the intention of a prolonged guerrilla war.
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The tech industry is rushing to unlock the potential of artificial intelligence, and AI hackathons  daylong collaborations using the technology to tackle real-world problems  are increasing in popularity. From the state of Washington, Natasha Mozgovaya has more.
YANGON, Aug. 29 (Xinhua) -- Conservationists working in the scenic hill town of Pyin Oo Lwin in central Myanmar were taken to the skies by hot air balloons in a recent reforestation operation, drawing public participation.

Conservationists from the Pyin Oo Lwin-based environmental group Green Challenge Association released their hot air balloons for this year's second aerial seeding operation in early August, attracting some 150 people to participate.

The innovative reforestation campaign not only revitalizes the landscape, but also reignites passion for tree planting in the enthusiasts and local conservationists alike, the participants said.

U Aung Myo Paing, head of the Green Challenge Association, told Xinhua on Sunday that participants dropped seed balls from hot air balloons or used catapults during the tree planting operation. "With the help of hot air balloons, we can plant a large quantity of trees efficiently within a short period of time," he said.

"Without hot air balloons, only about 30 people joined us to plant trees each time. Some 200 people now join our tree planting efforts when the balloons are involved," he said.

The Green Challenge Association initiated this innovative tree planting campaign in 2020, but suspended the operation in 2021 and 2022 due to flying limitations, U Aung Myo Paing said.

This year, the campaign has seen a triumphant revival with the successful release of hot air balloons for aerial seeding in July and August. The environmental group, which has dispersed over 150,000 seeds this year, is planning one more seed dispersal using hot air balloons in September, he said.

Inspired by the renowned Tazaungdaing Balloon Festival in the country, the conservationists said they have drawn on cultural festivities as a source of inspiration for modern conservation practices.

"Planting trees with balloons might seem unconventional, but it's a practical solution for areas that are difficult to access due to rugged terrain or lack of infrastructure," U Aung Myo Paing said, adding that at least a tenth of the seeds that they disperse would become fully grown trees to combat deforestation.

This approach has garnered attention from local media and the public, he said, adding that media coverage will contribute to raising environmental awareness among the public.

The impact of this approach has extended beyond Pyin Oo Lwin in the Mandalay region, attracting tree enthusiasts from other regions like Magway. People from various townships have come to study seed ball making and seed dispersal via hot air balloons, he said.

Nanda Aung, an 18-year-old from Bago region's Pyay town, recently joined the Green Challenge Association after reading a news story about the hot air balloon aerial seeding. He told Xinhua how he got interested in the hot air balloon tree planting campaign.

"I read the news online and called the Green Challenge to accept me as a member of them," he said. "I will actively participate in the tree planting campaigns. Trees are needed for people as the weather is getting hotter and hotter," he said, highlighting the connection between climate, health, and planting trees.

Deforestation remains a critical issue in Myanmar, driven by factors such as firewood consumption, expanding agriculture, urban development, and illegal logging, media reports said.

Despite the efforts to promote forests conservation, Myanmar's forest coverage has declined from over 57 percent in 1990 to about 42 percent in 2020, official figures showed. In response, the government launched a 10-year reforestation project spanning from fiscal year 2017-18 to 2027-28.

Local conservationists and environmental groups like Green Challenge Association in the Southeast Asian country have been planting trees in various ways to reverse deforestation.

While applauding the hot air balloon tree planting initiative, they also stress the need for greater involvement of the public, government, and international organizations to address the growing threat of rapid climate change. 
While it might be too early to assess the effects the death of Yevgeny Prigozhin and other leaders on the Wagner Groups operations in Africa, some analysts say there will be short-term disruptions.

Given Prigozhins reach on the continent the past few years, it will take time to replace Wagners top man, said Steven Gruzd, head of the Africa Russia Project at the South African Institute of International Affairs in Johannesburg.

Theres going to be a period of uncertainty; of people jockeying for position, of seeing who wants to take over, Gruzd said. Theres also the talk of Russia incorporating it into the army, taking it out of private hands.

But the International Crisis Groups Charles Bouessel told VOA the private mercenary groups activities in Africa will be disrupted because of the relationships the Wagner boss and some of his associates, including Valery Chekalov and Dmitry Utkin, who all died with him in a plane crash  were able to cultivate the past few years.

Prigozhin and Utkin especially had deep knowledge, Bouessel said, and they had all the connections with the African regimes where Wagner is working. It will take time for Russia to take it over and to rebuild relations with these countries.

Wagners influence stretches across the continent, Gruzd said.

The Wagner presence in Africa is large, he said. Reportedly over 5,000 soldiers [are] spread across the various countries, embedded in countries like Central African Republic and Mali, less so in Libya and Sudan. Even as late as last week, it looked like Niger and Burkina Faso, the countries that have undergone coups in West Africa across the Sahel, are targets for Wagner.

The U.S. Treasury Department accused the Wagner Group of mass executions, rape and physical abuse in Mali and the Central African Republic, or CAR, and designated it a criminal organization.

In the CAR, in particular, its too early to assess the impact Prigozhins death will have, but its important to remember the role the group had under its leader, said Bouessel.

The Central African Republic signed a deal with Russia in late 2017, he said. This deal included the arrival of Wagner and assistance of Wagner toward the president. Since then, Wagner was able to oust the former colonizer France out of the country and out of the decision-making part of the country. They also managed to secure [Faustin] Touaderas power and make him re-elected. They managed to deter rebel groups from attacking the capital again. And they managed to weaken the armed groups.

In the CAR, Bouessel said, the group controlled businesses in the mining of gold and diamonds. They are also present in the timber industry and beverage sector.

Dr. Edgar Githua, a lecturer at the United States International University in Nairobi and Strathmore University who specializes in international relations, peace and conflict, said that Prigozhins death will affect the groups finances, and that its global influence might take a hit.

Prigozhin is the one who had the financial streams of the Wagner Group, Githua said. Hes the one with the international connections. Hes the one who was getting all the international contracts.

It was a one man show. Prigozhin had a lot of power and a lot of say within that group. With his demise, that group is going to find itself rudderless for some time, he said.

Prigozhin died a couple of months after he staged an unsuccessful rebellion against top Russian military commanders. After that failed mutiny, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov indicated that operations in the CAR and Mali would not be affected.
President Joe Biden will observe next month's 22nd anniversary of the worst terrorist attack on U.S. soil at an Alaska military base with service members and their families, the White House announced.

Biden will not participate in any of the observances at 9/11 memorial sites in New York City, Virginia or Pennsylvania. Instead, the president will stop in Alaska for a Sept. 11 observance at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson in Anchorage on his way back to Washington after a trip to Asia.

Biden is scheduled to travel to India from Sept. 7-10 to attend a summit with other world leaders, followed by a stop in Vietnam.

Vice President Kamala Harris and her husband, Doug Emhoff, will participate in the annual observance at the National September 11 Memorial and Museum in lower Manhattan.

First lady Jill Biden will lay a wreath at the 9/11 memorial at the Pentagon.

Terrorists hijacked commercial airplanes on Sept. 11, 2001, and flew them into the Twin Towers in New York's financial district and the Pentagon in Arlington, Virginia. A fourth plane crashed in a field in Shanksville, Pennsylvania, after passengers fought back.

Nearly 3,000 people were killed in the attacks. Biden was a U.S. senator at the time.

It will not be the first time that a president has not attended annual observances at any of the three sites.

In 2015, President Barack Obama participated in a moment of silence on the White House lawn before going to Fort Meade in Maryland to recognize the military's work protecting the country.

In 2005, President George W. Bush marked the anniversary on the White House lawn.

The White House did not announce which official will participate in the Pennsylvania observance.
Cameroon officials say a fifth case of polio was reported in the capital, Yaounde, this week, despite the launching of a new polio vaccination campaign in the central African country and its neighbors. Health officials are increasing surveillance and encouraging parents, many of whom still resist vaccination programs, to have their children inoculated.

Cameroon's health ministry says that five cases of type-2 poliovirus variants were discovered in the central African states capital, Yaounde, this week.

The Cameroon government says sequencing results indicate the virus belongs to the NIE-ZAS-1 group that circulates in Niger, Chad, Cameroon and Nigeria.

The five cases constitute a national public health emergency given the high risk of the virus spreading very fast in the ongoing rainy season, according to the government.

Alma Mpiki is a pediatrician at Cameroons health ministry. She said to stop the spread of the disease as soon as possible the government of Cameroon has increased efforts to vaccinate all children under the age of five.

"There are still sporadic cases (of polio), that is why even though we are beginning to move towards the injectable form of the vaccines, we still continue to give the oral vaccination which is helpful and more efficient in protecting children, she said.

Alma said the government is sending caravans to markets and communities to ask civilians to make sure all children are vaccinated.

Poliomyelitis is a highly infectious disease that is caused when the polio virus invades the nervous system of an infected person. The World Health Organization says polio has no cure and can cause paralysis and even death.

The outbreak was reported three months after the launch of Africas largest polio vaccination campaign since 2020.

Cameroon health officials say they joined the massive inoculation exercise to reach out to children whose parents were refusing to take the children to hospitals for inoculation because of fear of the coronavirus.

Tchockfe Shalom Ndoula is the permanent secretary of Cameroons Expanded Vaccination Program.

Tchokfe said the inoculation exercise launched in May was a combined effort by Cameroon, Chad, the Central African Republic and Niger to immunize a total 21 million children under the age of five. He said before this week's outbreak in Cameroon, 14 type-2 poliovirus infections were detected in sub-Saharan African countries.

Tchocfe said one case was detected in Niger, six confirmed cases were reported in Chad, and seven more in the Central African Republic since January.

Cameron's health ministry says more than three million children in the country have been inoculated against polio since May.
On August 24, the U.S. State Department imposed financial sanctions and visa restrictions on Aymani Kadyrova and 12 other individuals and entities for involvement in the "forced transfer and deportation of children during Russias Illegal war against Ukraine."

Kadyrova is the mother of Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov and the widow of Akhmad Kadyrov, the former Chechen leader who was assassinated in 2004. Kadyrova heads the Akhmad Kadyrov Foundation, which is also among the 13 new sanctions targets.

Also on August 24, Adam Delimkhanov, a Russian State Duma member and close ally of Ramzan Kadyrov, condemned Washingtons move:

"  The United States decided to impose sanctions against... Aymani Nesievna (Kadyrova). Of course, we have long known that the mental health of America's politicians is a big question mark. However, this yet another senseless and stupid trick makes us already a little worried, but are they all at home? What kind of threat can a woman who has been doing charity work all her life, helping hundreds of thousands of people around the world, pose to the United States?

That claim is false.

According to the International Criminal Court (ICC), the "forced transfer and deportation of children" constitutes a war crime.

In May, the Ukrainian on-line newspaper Ukrainska Pravda reported:

The foundation of Ramzan Kadyrov's mother, Aymani Nesievna Kadyrova, regularly reports on assistance to Ukrainian children. With the help of Kadyrov and Lvova-Belova, a camp for the re-education of children from the new territories of the Russian Federation was created near Grozny. Those who actively oppose Russification attempts are sent there.

In a February report titled Russias Systematic Program for the Re-Education & Adoption of Ukraines Children, the Conflict Observatory, an American non-governmental organization funded by the U.S. State Department, said that more than 6,000 Ukrainian children ages four months to 17 years were taken to 43 camps within Russia-occupied Crimea and mainland Russia.

The report stated that one of these camps is located in Chechnya, near its capital Grozny, where military training was part of the program.

In December 2022, the Voice of America-affiliated Russian-language network Current Time detailed activities of such camps in Chechnya:

Chechnya has become the main Russian center for military-patriotic children's camps. There, teenagers are told about the exploits of the Russian military in the war in Ukraine and are taught to hold weapons in their hands. In November, the Gorny Klyuch recreation center in the Shali region held a patriotic session  About two hundred teenagers were brought there not only from Russia but also Ukrainian children illegally taken from the occupied territories.

The patriotic camp Forces of the Caucasus, organized in Chechnya, is a joint project of Ramzan Kadyrov and children's ombudsman Maria Lvova-Belova. Its participants were about 150 teenagers from Russia: Penza, Novosibirsk region, Komi Republic, Dagestan. As well as 45 children from the so-called LDNR [in occupied Ukraine].

This past March, the ICC issued arrest warrants against Russian President Vladimir Putin and Presidential Commissioner for Children's Rights Maria Lvova-Belova for the "war crime of unlawful deportation of population [children] and that of unlawful transfer of population [children] from occupied areas of Ukraine to the Russian Federation."

Article II of the 1948 Genocide Convention states that forcibly transferring children of one group to another group "with intent to destroy, in whole or in part, a national, ethnical, racial or religious group," constitutes genocide.

According to the Ukrainian authorities, from February 24, 2022, to August 28, 2023, 19,545 children were deported from Ukraine to Russia.

In a report titled The Kremlin's war against Ukrainian children published on August 25, the U.S. State Departments Global Engagement Center said that the Russian government illegally resettled to the occupied territory of Ukraine or deported to Russia hundreds of thousands of Ukrainian civilians, including children, as part of Russian filtration operations and other efforts."

In June, Current Time reported that the Russian authorities used about 100 orphanages and boarding schools for displaced Ukrainian children, and that some of those children were sent to camps for "re-education."

Ukraines Ambassador to the United Nations, Sergiy Kyslytsya, told the U.N. Security Council on August 24 that those in charge of such camps in Russia are trying to force illegally displaced Ukrainian children to become Russians:

Our children are exposed to aggressive brainwashing aimed at changing their consciousness, erasing their Ukrainian identity, and preparing obedient soldiers for the Russian army in the future.
A University of North Carolina faculty member was shot and killed in a campus building, an official said Monday.

UNC-Chapel Hill Chancellor Kevin Guskiewicz said the shooting was in Caudill Laboratories, and there is no longer a threat to the public. A suspect has been arrested, the school said.

"This loss is devastating, and the shooting damages the trust and safety that we so often take for granted in our campus community," Guskiewicz said.

UNC Police Chief Brian James said at a news conference they are not releasing the suspect's name, and formal charges have not yet been filed.

James said Caudill labs will be closed until further notice while evidence is being processed. He said a motive isn't known, and the weapon has not been found.

James said emergency sirens sounded about two minutes after a 911 call came in reporting shots fired. Students and faculty at the flagship campus barricaded themselves in dorm rooms, offices and classrooms for hours until a lockdown was lifted.

James said they are not releasing the victim's ID while they work to reach family members. He said there were no other deaths or injuries.

About three hours after warning students to seek shelter indoors and avoid windows, the school posted on X, formerly known as Twitter, "All clear. All clear. Resume normal activities."

The school's first alert was sent out just after 1 p.m. At 1:50 p.m., officials posted on X that the shelter-in-place order remained in effect and that it was "an ongoing situation." About 40 minutes later, the school added a post saying: "Remain sheltered in place. This is an ongoing situation. Suspect at large."

About two hours after the first alert went out, officers were still arriving in droves, with about 50 police vehicles at the scene and multiple helicopters circling over the school.

One officer admonished two people who tried to exit the student center, yelling "Inside, now!" About 10 minutes later, law enforcement escorted a group of students out of one of the science buildings, with everyone walking in an orderly line with their hands up.

Shortly before 4 p.m., students and faculty started emerging from campus buildings, with the lockdown over.

The report of the shooting and subsequent lockdown paralyzed campus and parts of the surrounding town of Chapel Hill a week after classes began at the state's flagship public university. The university, with about 20,000 undergraduate students and 12,000 graduate students, canceled Tuesday classes.

During the lockdown, a student told TV station WTVD that she had barricaded her dormitory door with her furniture. Another student, speaking softly, described hiding in fear with others in a dark bathroom.

Adrian Lanier, a sophomore computer science major, told The Associated Press that he and others sat against a wall, trying to stay as far away as possible from doors and windows. They waited for hours as rumors spread.

"No one really felt safe enough to leave. I didn't," Lanier said.

Oliver Katz, an exchange student from Copenhagen Business School in Denmark, said some students crowded into gym locker rooms to get away from windows while others crouched in corners and sat on the floor. Police evacuated them hours later.

"This never happens where I'm from," Katz said. "It was intense. But I was a little surprised that other people weren't panicking that much."

Katz, who has only been on campus for two weeks, said he's worried his home university will bring the exchange students home early. "I don't want to leave. I like it here, and I do still feel safe."

The nearby Chapel Hill-Carrboro City school district also locked down its schools for several hours as a precaution.
With visa challenges and security issues forcing more foreign journalists to report from outside China, international audiences are missing out.

In recent years, journalists have decamped from cities such as Beijing or Shanghai to Taiwan, South Korea or Singapore.

When VOA spoke with five reporters who currently cover China from outside its borders, they said that reporting from afar has made them feel more disconnected from the country. In turn, that risks skewing and stymieing how the international community understands China.

It does restrict your view on whats happening in China in different ways, said Chris Buckley, who reports from Taiwan for the New York Times. I dont think, in the end, theres any substitute for actually being in China to report on whats happening.

After reporting from China for decades, Buckley had to leave in 2020 when the government declined to renew his visa.

He was one of several journalists that year who were either expelled or found their visa renewals declined or rejected as China and the U.S. engaged in a visa tit-for-tat, and Washington capped the number of visas for staff at Chinas state-run outlets in the U.S.

Washington and Beijing agreed in 2021 to relax visa restrictions, but obtaining a visa to report in China remains an issue as U.S.-China negotiations on the matter have stalled, according to the Foreign Correspondents Club of China.

Taiwan  which itself is a region of growing interest  has become a popular new base.

There have been several waves of foreign correspondents coming to Taipei in recent years, driven by the difficulty and risks of working in China, Thompson Chau, president of the Taiwan Foreign Correspondents Club, told VOA.

But even with only about 100 miles between China and Taiwan, the island is increasingly disconnected from China, one reporter who is based in Taiwan said.

Were getting a much more sanitized version of reporting, the journalist, who worked inside China for several years, said. She requested anonymity because her employer did not authorize her to talk to the media.

With access limited, journalists say they have to find creative ways to do their jobs. And some reporters, like Bethany Allen-Ebrahimian of Axios, have never been able to secure a long-term journalist visa.

Besides two reporting trips to China in 2015 and 2016, Allen-Ebrahimian has always covered the country from outside.

The French news agency Agence France-Presse once offered Allen-Ebrahimian a position as a correspondent in Beijing, but the Chinese government denied her visa request in 2019.

I always had to be very innovative to find new ways to actually break news about what was happening there, Allen-Ebrahimian, now based in Taiwan after several years in Washington, told VOA.

In an emailed statement to VOA, the spokesperson for Chinas Washington embassy rejected the notion that Beijing restricts journalists from working in China.

China always welcomes foreign media and journalists to report in China in accordance with laws and regulations, and provides them with convenience and assistance, Liu Pengyu, the spokesperson, said. Anyone can say anything, anywhere, as long as it is not illegal.

China ranks among the worlds worst jailers of journalists, according to data from the Committee to Protect Journalists.

Silence from sources

Among the challenges in covering the country from afar is the difficulty in finding sources  many of whom are already wary of foreign media  who are willing to talk.

Youre just a strange, disembodied voice on the phone. Why should anyone risk talking to you, one reporter told VOA. The journalist, who was among the American reporters expelled from China in 2020, requested anonymity because his employer did not authorize him to talk to the media.

It is also nearly impossible to get a sense of what life is like in China or anywhere if the reporter isnt there experiencing it firsthand, the journalists said.

Christian Shepherd, who covers China for the Washington Post from Taiwan, said he would have loved to report on how the once-obscure city of Zibo became Chinas go-to barbecue destination earlier this year.

Its not really worth it if we cant be there, he told VOA.

The distance means all the sounds and smells  all the color that makes China distinct  are mere memories.

Yaqiu Wang, who researches China at Human Rights Watch, said having reporters in China, despite the challenges, is crucial.

People get surveilled, harassed when theyre in China, but they still want to be in China, even with all the headaches, because thats how you get the best stories, she said.

Distance also bears steep implications for the kind of reporting that is and is not possible  and, in turn, the image of China that audiences around the world are exposed to.

The articles that you see are going to be disproportionately more skewed toward the defense stories, the national security stories, the Chinese government is authoritarian and bad stories, Allen-Ebrahimian said.

It dehumanizes China. It turns China into a concept rather than the home of a lot of valuable people, Allen-Ebrahimian added.

The anonymous reporter who was expelled from China added, I dont think theres any question that the international communitys grasp of whats happening in China is badly diminished.

The irony, reporters and analysts said, is that better access and more human-interest stories would probably help Chinas global reputation.

In 2013, President Xi Jinping introduced the concept of telling Chinas story well through the countrys state-controlled propaganda outlets.

But attempts to influence foreign media by blocking reporters have backfired, reporters and analysts said.

Its absolutely not in [Chinas] best interest, Wang said. Since Beijing regularly complains that the West doesnt understand China, she said, then let foreign correspondents go into China and interview regular Chinese people.

Some reporters like Shepherd are optimistic that they will be able to return.

Others are less hopeful. I certainly do not see that happening within Xi Jinpings lifetime, Allen-Ebrahimian said. But I could be wrong, and I would like to be wrong.
Toyota said Tuesday it has been hit by a technical glitch forcing it to suspend production at all 14 factories in Japan.

The world's biggest automaker gave no further details on the stoppage, which began Tuesday morning, but said it did not appear to be caused by a cyberattack.

The company said the glitch prevented its system from processing orders for parts, resulting in a suspension of a dozen factories or 25 production lines on Tuesday morning.

The company later decided to halt the afternoon shift of the two other operational factories, suspending all of Toyota's domestic plants, or 28 production lines.

"We do not believe the problem was caused by a cyberattack," the company said in a statement to AFP.

"We will continue to investigate the cause and to restore the system as soon as possible."

The incident affected only Japanese factories, Toyota said.

It was not immediately clear exactly when normal production might resume.

The news briefly sent Toyota's stocks into the red in the morning session before recovering.

Last year, Toyota had to suspend all of its domestic factories after a subsidiary was hit by a cyberattack.

The company is one of the biggest in Japan, and its production activities have an outsized impact on the country's economy.

Toyota is famous for its "just-in-time" production system of providing only small deliveries of necessary parts and other items at various steps of the assembly process.

This practice minimizes costs while improving efficiency and is studied by other manufacturers and at business schools around the world, but also comes with risks.

The auto titan retained its global top-selling auto crown for the third year in a row in 2022 and aims to earn an annual net profit of $17.6 billion this fiscal year.

Major automakers are enjoying a robust surge of global demand after the COVID-19 pandemic slowed manufacturing activities.

Severe shortages of semiconductors had limited production capacity for a host of goods ranging from cars to smartphones.

Toyota has said chip supplies were improving and that it had raised product prices, while it worked with suppliers to bring production back to normal.

However, the company was still experiencing delays in the deliveries of new vehicles to customers, it added.
Russias defense ministry said Tuesday its air defenses shot down two Ukrainian drones south of Moscow.

The ministry said the drones were downed over the Tula region. It did not give any details about any related damage.

Ukraine has routinely targeted Russia, including the Moscow region, with drones in recent weeks.

China is the main supplier of critical components for Russian drones used against Ukraine, The International Working Group on Russian Sanctions reports.

The group is co-chaired by Andriy Yermak, head of the Office of the President of Ukraine, and former U.S. Ambassador Michael McFaul, director of the Freeman-Spogli Institute for International Studies.

Russia relies heavily on foreign-made components, especially microelectronics in three of the drone models used to attack Ukraine.

According to the study, 67% of drone component shipments come from China, while 17% of them are going through Hong Kong to Russia. Turkey and The United Arab Emirates account for 5% and 2% of the components, respectively.

Components made in Japan, the Republic of Korea, Switzerland and other countries, including processors, chips, transistors, and other vital components, were also found in the drones.

"Russia is extremely active in using drones for massive attacks on infrastructure, civilian and military targets in Ukraine, so it is very disturbing to see that important components for the production of hostile UAVs come from different countries, including Ukraine's allies. This issue requires our joint immediate response. We have to take comprehensive measures to prevent the aggressor from using critical components to continue hostilities on Ukrainian soil," noted Yermak.

The group's experts called on manufacturers to do more to prevent Russia from accessing their products while bypassing economic sanctions.

It also recommended that governments investigate well-known companies that do not comply with the sanctions policy.

Some information for this report came from The Associated Press, Agence France-Presse and Reuters.
A huge money laundering case has riveted attention in Singapore.

In a series of raids across the city-state in mid-August, authorities seized close to three quarters of a billion U.S. dollars in assets including more than 100 luxury condos and dozens of flashy cars. It's one of the city-state's largest ever money laundering cases.

Hundreds of bags were seized, some worth up to $100,000 from the likes of Hermes, Chanel and Prada, plus Patek Philippe watches and jewelry. Police images of the wines seized resemble the cellar of a French chateau.

The Singapore Police Force said the ill-gotten gains were obtained from organized crime committed overseas, including scams and online gambling, with the proceeds then brought into Singapore and filtered through the country's financial institutions.

Ten people were arrested in the raids on Aug. 15, with 12 others currently "assisting authorities" with their ongoing investigation. Eight more individuals are still wanted by police.

Those arrested appeared to be an international group - Cypriot, Turkish, Cambodian and from the small Pacific archipelago Vanuatu. But all the men also had Chinese passports.

Local media have since reported that the men all originate from the same part of China - Fujian province. It's a mountainous region on the country's southeast coast, affluent and once the hub of the Chinese tea industry.

"There has been a significant uptick in operations against money laundering groups recently involving China in cooperation with Southeast Asian countries, and no doubt more are coming," said Jeremy Douglas, the U.N.'s Office on Drugs and Crime representative for Southeast Asia and the Pacific.

It's unclear how the funds got into Singapore and how they were undetected for so long. Some local media reported members of the group have been living in Singapore for up to six years. Bloomberg reported the Singaporean arm of Citigroup was used by some of the men for banking as far back as 2020.

Singapore's Monetary Authority says it was banks that alerted them to the suspicious activities of these men, tipped off by suspicious fund flows and dubious documents about the money's origin.

Kelvin Law is an Associate Professor of Accounting at Nanyang Technological University in Singapore. He says Singapore's reputation as a global financial hub could attract criminals to move their illicit funds to the city-state.

"Singapore has an extremely high volume of high-value cross-border transactions every day. It is easier to hide money laundering transfers in a country with this feature because it is hard to spot the odd ones out," he said.

Once funds are in Singapore's banking system, Law says they can then be easily moved around.

There are now questions about whether such a high-profile money laundering case will impact Singapore's global reputation. Strong surveillance, a vast police network and a punitive justice system have given Singapore the reputation of being one of the safest countries in the world.

"I think they want to show the world that they're really serious about this without hurting the city's place as the financial hub of the region," said Zachary Abuza, a professor covering Southeast Asian politics at the National War College in Washington.

"This is a country where the rule of law and their kind of squeaky cleanliness is one of their key selling points," Abuza said.

Abuza said the city-state has recently invested in artificial intelligence to identify patterns or irregularities that would indicate foul play, making him surprised that the crime wasn't picked up by Singaporean authorities.

"This was not even very sophisticated money laundering, buying luxury goods, this was not sophisticated stuff."

Singapore is keen to protect its reputation, especially as money continues to pour into the country from high-net-worth individuals who see it as a safe haven.

The Monetary Authority of Singapore recently told VOA that the number of private offices managing wealth had risen to 1,100 at the end of last year, compared with just 400 in 2020.

In recent years, with the geopolitical situation, more people are seeing Singapore as a good neutral place to conduct their business. When there is a lot of capital flowing, money launderers will naturally try to mask their fund flows through the same channels, said Stefanie Yuen Thio, managing partner at TSMP Law Corporation.

Singapore's Police Force was strong in its defense of the country's financial integrity. "We have zero tolerance for the use of Singapore as a safe haven for criminals or their families, nor for the abuse of our banking facilities," SPF's Director of Commercial Affairs David Chew said in a statement.

"Our message to these criminals is simple - if we catch you, we will arrest you. If we find your ill-gotten gains, we will seize them. We will deal with you to the fullest extent of our laws."

The United Nations' Office on Drugs and Crime has warned of the increased risk of money laundering in the region.

"Southeast Asia has a huge and growing money laundering problem. Recent innovations connected to casinos, scams and the underground banking system have really driven home just how big and dynamic it has become," said Douglas, the office's Southeast Asia representative
The nightmare repeats itself every year: A towering wall of flames devours forests, farmland and homes, forcing animals and people to flee for their lives.

With their hot, dry summers, Greece and its southern European neighbors experience hundreds of devastating wildfires each year. Last week alone, wildfires killed 21 people in Greece. The country's deadliest, in 2018, cost more than 100 lives. And experts warn climate change is likely to exacerbate extreme weather, fueling more wildfires.

This summer, a group of residents in a suburb of the Greek capital united in determination to prevent the nightmare from reaching their homes.

In less than a week in early August, an initial group of three people with a shared concern grew to an online community of about 320 offering donations to hire a company using long-range drones equipped with thermal imaging cameras as a sophisticated early warning system to catch wildfires before they can spread.

It's a tried and tested system. Designed and set up with the help of Grigoris Konstantellos, a commercial airline pilot and mayor of the southern Athens seaside suburbs of Vari, Voula and Vouliagmeni, the drones began operating there last year.

"We didn't discover it, we created it," Kontantellos said of the program. "We said, 'Why shouldn't this capability exist?'"

The system seemed the perfect solution for the concerned residents in the northern suburbs.

"We're all worried, we're all anxious," said Melina Throuvala, a psychologist and one of the initial group of three. "We don't want to mourn victims, or to see our environment and our forests burning or our homes threatened. That was the main incentive."

And with wildfires, prevention is the key.

Operated by drone pilots with advanced training to fly beyond the visual line of sight and with permission from civil aviation authorities, the drones provide live images and detect changes in temperature, alerting their handlers in the critical early stages before a fire spreads. The drones run 24/7, with pilots working in six-hour shifts.

"The first few minutes are the most crucial for a fire," said Giorgos Dertilis, who heads the local volunteer firefighting unit. "At the start it's easier to put out the fire. The more the minutes go by, the harder our job becomes."

Volunteer units are integrated into Greece's Civil Protection system, working closely with professional fire departments. With no fire station in the wider Kifissia area, volunteers often can get to local blazes faster.

The drone company operates from the volunteer firefighters' headquarters, so they can react immediately to any signs of a fire.

The drone program's value was quickly apparent. In the first couple of days, it picked up the start of a fire near a shuttered hotel, "so when we were on our way ... we knew, we were prepared to see a fire," Dertilis said. They quickly extinguished the blaze. "It's very important to know what to expect."

The system's innovation, said Emmanouil Angelakis, managing director of the company operating the drones, is that it includes specialized personnel, software, servers and satellite antenna so "drones, day and night, can scan all the forest areas with thermal cameras and sensors and give live images and coordinates of where a fire starts."

The idea for the system came in June 2022, after a wind-whipped wildfire descended on Konstantellos' municipality from a mountain ridge. As they coordinated the response, authorities realized they had a problem.

"We were chasing the fire," the mayor said. With the flames moving rapidly, keeping track of where water trucks were needed was a challenge. "We couldn't see basic things on the ground. We'd see them with a delay, because we weren't right in front of them."

An extensive review of the emergency response followed.

"We saw that what was missing is for us to not chase the fire, but to be able to have a live image of the fire, of where our assets are and where the threat is," Konstantellos said. They thought of drones.

The fire department already uses drones during an active blaze, covering a small area. What was needed was to see a fire when it starts and stop it in its tracks.

Getting in touch with the drone company, the fire prevention program was born. In the year and a half it's been operational, it's given early warnings for fires 12 times, Konstantellos said.

"We've caught fires at 3:30 in the morning," the mayor said. "When we sent the Civil Protection, they couldn't even find the fire. We could see it on the drone."

Then on Saturday, 270 lighting strikes sparked six blazes, starting at 5:30 a.m. The drones saw them immediately, Konstantellos said Monday. With live drone images relayed to his cellphone, "we had amazing coordination, and in less than 40 minutes we had put out six fires in hard-to-reach places."

The drones have a range of 15 kilometers (nearly 10 miles) and are equipped with loudspeakers and searchlights to warn off people doing banned outdoor work on high fire-risk days  or to frighten off potential arsonists. The municipality is even running a pilot program to prevent drownings, whereby drones can drop lifejackets to swimmers in distress.

The municipality pays 13,000-14,000 euros ($14,000-$15,000) per month for 24/7 coverage. "For a municipality, it's a viable number to have peace of mind from the fires," Konstantellos said.

The drone company's Angelakis said the Kifissia residents' privately funded initiative "was the first time this happened on a volunteer basis and not by a state body."

Kifissia's nearby municipality of Dionysos followed, with its privately funded operation working out of the town hall.

Residents of less affluent areas would be less able to afford private funding. But other municipal and regional authorities are interested, said Konstantellos, who noted the system can be used to coordinate responses to other events such as floods, earthquakes or traffic accidents.

"As we say in aviation, 'A well-trained pilot is the best safety device,'" he said. "We convert this to the civil protection, and we say: 'A well-prepared city is the best defense of a city against crisis.'"
JERUSALEM, Aug. 29 (Xinhua) -- Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu thanked Saudi authorities on Tuesday for taking care of Israeli passengers whose flight had to make an emergency landing in Jeddah.

Due to a technical malfunction, Air Seychelles HM022, destined for Tel Aviv and carrying 128 Israeli passengers, was forced to land on Monday night in the kingdom, with which Israel doesn't have official ties.

Later, a replacement flight was arranged to fly the passengers to their destination, said the Israeli foreign ministry in a statement.

Lisa Dvir, a spokeswoman for Israel's international airport of Ben Gurion, said the airplane landed safely at the airport outside Tel Aviv on Tuesday afternoon.

"I greatly appreciate the warm attitude of the Saudi authorities to the Israeli passengers whose flight was in distress and was compelled to make an emergency landing in Jeddah," Netanyahu said. "I am pleased that they are all coming home."

The incident marked the first time an Israeli flight made an emergency landing in Saudi Arabia since Riyadh agreed in 2022 to open its airspace for Israeli flights, allowing flights departing from Israel to pass over the Gulf country. 
Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan will visit Russia soon to discuss the collapsed United Nations deal that had allowed Black Sea exports of Ukrainian grain, a spokesperson for Turkey's ruling AK Party said Monday.

The U.N. and Turkey-brokered deal lasted a year but ended last month after Moscow quit. Ankara is seeking to persuade Russia to return to the agreement, under which Odesa's seaports shipped tens of millions of tons of grain.

Since the grain-export deal collapsed, Russian forces have targeted Ukrainian ports with volleys of missiles and kamikaze drones.

Omer Celik, the AK Party spokesperson, said Erdogan would visit Russia's Black Sea resort of Sochi "soon" but did not specify whether he would meet Russian President Vladimir Putin.

"After this visit there may be developments and new stages may be reached regarding" the grain deal, he told reporters.

The Kremlin said Friday there was an understanding the two leaders will meet in person soon.

Bloomberg cited two anonymous sources in reporting that Erdogan is expected to meet Putin in Russia next week, possibly on Sept. 8, before he travels to a G20 meeting in India.
This week, the United Nations enters the second phase of drawing down one of its largest peacekeeping missions, after military authorities in Mali announced in June that they wanted the mission out by the end of this year.

MINUSMA is entering its last chapter, El-Ghassim Wane, head of mission, told the U.N. Security Council Monday in a video briefing from Malis capital, Bamako. MINUSMA stands for the Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali.

With virtually no notice, Malis military authorities, which seized power in a 2021 coup, told the U.N. to pack up its decade-old mission and leave. They have given the organization until the end of this year to repatriate more than 12,000 international peacekeepers and separate from 4,300 civilian staff.

By comparison, when the U.N. drew down its peacekeeping operation in Sudans Darfur region, which had half the number of peacekeepers and a third of the civilian staff, it took three years. In Mali, the government has given the U.N. only six months.

The U.N. is doing this against a backdrop of continued instability in Mali, where Islamic State and al-Qaida terrorists battle for control of parts of the country, and Wagner mercenaries from Russia have been hired by the Malian authorities to assist them.

There are concerns that terrorists and armed groups may take advantage of the security vacuum left by departing peacekeepers.

The government of Mali has very calmly and seriously assessed the withdrawal of MINUSMA and prepared the necessary measures to deal with any possible security vacuum that could be related to this, Mali Ambassador Issa Konfourou told the council.

The recent military coup in Niger is also complicating the U.N.s withdrawal from Mali, which is landlocked and has poor roads.

The situation in Niger is having an impact on our withdrawal plan, which is based on the use of transit zones in Cotonou and Lome, Wane said. It is vital we are able to transport equipment and material through Niger and to its ports for subsequent repatriation to troop-contributing countries and police-contributing countries concerned.

Wane said the U.N. has just completed its first phase of the drawdown and has closed four small, remote bases and one temporary operating base and returned them to the Malian authorities. More than a thousand peacekeepers have returned to their home countries, and nearly 80 containers of equipment have been shipped out of the country.

Phase Two of the drawdown begins Friday (September 1).

This phase will be incredibly difficult, indeed, Wane told council members.

It will entail the closure of six bases in the north, center and northeast of the country. Some camps in the north are in areas controlled by signatory movements to the 2015 peace agreement, and they do not necessarily agree with military authorities over who should control them.

With the impending withdrawal of MINUSMA, tensions have emerged between the government and one signatory movement, the Coordination des mouvements de lAzawad [CMA], U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres warned in a letter last week to the Security Council outlining the missions drawdown.

If not resolved, these tensions could not only complicate the missions withdrawal, but also further undermine the cease-fire agreement, with serious implications for the entire peace process.

Once Phase Two is completed, the missions mandate will come to an end. A liquidation phase will begin on January 1, 2024, and is expected to continue for about 18 months. During that time, the U.N. will finish shipping out its equipment and material and clean up its environmental footprint.

In addition to the complex logistics and security, the closure of a mission this size will be staggering. In his letter, Guterres said $590 million has been allocated through the end of this year, but a separate budget for the liquidation phase will need General Assembly approval.

Wane said despite the many challenges  MINUSMA has the highest rate of deaths in action among its peacekeepers  he believes strongly that the mission has made a tangible contribution to the advancement of peace, security and stability in the country.
Access to the VOA Turkish website voaturkce.com was blocked in Turkey on Tuesday, following a court order banning access due to the international news organization's failure to apply for a broadcast license from Turkey's media regulator.

In a warning posted on its website on August 21, the Radio and Television Supreme Council (RTUK) gave VOA Turkish 72 hours to apply for an on-demand broadcast license or risk having the court block access to VOA Turkish content.

The media watchdog cited a 2019 law that authorizes RTUK to request licenses from "media service providers" for their radio, TV and on-demand services in order for them to continue their online presence. Broadcast executives who air content without a license could face charges that carry sentences of up to two years in prison.

VOA's public relations department in Washington said the broadcaster does not plan to obtain a license from the regulator.

"Given VOA's status as a public service international broadcaster legally required to provide 'accurate, objective, and comprehensive' news coverage to its global audience, VOA cannot comply with any directive intended to enable censorship," VOA spokesperson Bridget Serchak said in an email.

VOA received no response to emails requesting comment from RTUK after the order last week and a message sent late Tuesday.

Banned without a hearing

Following RTUK's request Monday to block access to VOA Turkish content, Ankara's 9th Criminal Court of Peace issued the ban the same day without holding a hearing.

The court order, obtained by VOA, said the access-blocking decision was sent to the Access Providers Association, an organization that carries out media bans in Turkey. The court also stated that its ruling can be appealed within seven days.

The decision comes more than a year after RTUK banned access to VOA Turkish's previous domain name, amerikaninsesi.com, and German public broadcaster Deutsche Welle, as the news outlets refused to comply with the regulator's license requirement because of censorship concerns.

On July 1, 2022, after the access ban was placed on VOA Turkish and DW, RTUK said that if the outlets acted in accordance with the regulation, "blocking their websites by the independent judiciary would not have been applied."

"If these broadcasting websites form companies in our country and start their licensing process in accordance with our laws, RTUK will request from the judicial authorities to terminate the access ban," RTUK said in a statement.

"RTUK supports pluralism, free press, and free reporting by media outlets. However, like every democratic country, Turkey is a state with the rule of law. RTUK, which is a guide to the sector, is in favor of the legal dissemination of news content under certain guarantees," the regulator added. Ruling also blocks alternate domain

VOA Turkish moved to a different domain name months after RTUK blocked access in June 2022. Monday's court ruling blocks access to content under that domain name, as well.

The on-demand broadcast license requested by RTUK is commonly acquired by streaming platforms such as Netflix, Disney+ and Amazon Prime Video to operate in the Turkish market.

The law enables RTUK to impose fines, suspend broadcasting for three months or cancel broadcast licenses if the licensees do not follow RTUK's principles.

Press freedom advocates say that obtaining a broadcast license from RTUK would allow the regulator to censor news content.

Gurkan Ozturan, who coordinates the Media Freedom Rapid Response alliance at the European Centre for Press and Media Freedom (ECPMF), views the court ruling against VOA Turkish as a "development that gradually diminishes media freedom and increases the pressure that media outlets face."

"It is quite possible that unwanted news content will be subject to content removal orders after obtaining a license," Ozturan told VOA.

He also noted that RTUK's involvement in news content has increased in recent years.

"We have seen that RTUK has ruled to ban access with arbitrary decisions on the basis of moral values, especially over LGBTI+ news content and all kinds of content in digital media," Ozturan added. Press freedom groups push back

In April 2023, 20 press freedom organizations, including ECPMF, Freedom House and the International Press Institute, called on RTUK "to immediately stop fining broadcasters for their critical reporting. Journalists and broadcasters must be allowed to do their jobs of informing the public over critical issues and holding the government to account."

Erol Onderoglu, the Turkey representative for Reporters Without Borders and the media freedom rapporteur for the Bianet press agency, thinks RTUK's license requirement should not be deemed as a simple procedure.

"While the opposition and critical media in Turkey are crushed under the RTUK's fines, it would be naive to look at the process of international digital platforms and news websites with RTUK as a simple licensing procedure," he told VOA.

"An institution like RTUK is expected to stand out with its constructive and regulatory work in democracies," he continued. "However, unfortunately, RTUK has gained a reputation as a censorship authority not only in Turkey but also beyond borders."

According to Ozgur Ogret, the Turkey representative for the Committee to Protect Journalists, one of the most important issues for the Turkish government is to control the news flow by overseeing "what information would be disseminated, in what way it would be shared, and from what point of view it would be discussed."

To achieve this, "the government tries to make local media outlets dysfunctional as much as possible with various economic pressures and judicial harassment, and the foreign media outlets as inaccessible as possible," he told VOA.
The United States says it is concerned about reports that some polling observers in Zimbabwe have been forced to sign altered election results forms amid a worldwide outcry over the manner the southern African nation conducted its August 23 general elections, widely condemned by the Southern African Development Community (SADC), European Union (EU) and other organizations.

Matthew Miller, U.S. Department of State spokesperson, said America is in the process of engaging regional leaders to share its concerns about the situation in the country.

Miller said, Although the Zimbabwe Election Commission (ZEC) has announced results of the countrys recent presidential election, multiple observation missions have expressed deep concerns and stated that the countrys electoral process did not meet regional and international standards for credibility. For example, the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and other international electoral observation missions cited problems with transparency, independence, fairness, and credibility at all stages of the electoral process.

He said U.S. has noted in particular the systemic bias against political opposition during the pre-election period and reports from respected civil society groups that ZEC officials pressured election observers to sign altered polling station result forms.

The electoral body has dismissed reports that some polling station results have been signed illegally, stressing that some Zimbabweans are circulating mere rumors on social media related to the countrys controversial elections.

But Miller urged ZEC to make the disaggregated polling station results publicly available to increase confidence in the result tabulation process.

The United States is engaging regional leaders to share our concerns, including what this means for the international communitys nascent efforts to reengage the Zimbabwean government. There is much at stake for the people of Zimbabwe and the region. We urge all Zimbabweans to remain peaceful and pursue grievances through established legal channels.

He strongly condemned the intimidation and disruption of lawful election observers throughout the electoral period.

The Zimbabwean government on August 23 arrested staff from several prominent civil society organizations, engaged in lawful election observation in accordance with the Electoral Act.

These arrests prevented efforts to independently verify ZECs announced results, a fundamental component of democratic processes in the region and around the world. Furthermore, threats directed against members of the SADC Electoral Observation Mission are dangerous, and we call upon the Government of Zimbabwe to cease these inflammatory and unacceptable attacks. These actions belie President Mnangagwas repeated pledges to respect rule of law, transparency, and accountability.

George Charamba, presidential spokesperson, and Nick Mangwana, the countrys information secretary were unavailable for comment as they were not responding to calls on their mobile phones.

Charamba told VOA Zimbabwe is an exclusive interview Monday afternoon that there is no political crisis in Zimbabwe. President Emmerson Mnangagwa told reporters in Harare that he is happy about the outcome of the elections.

According to ZEC, he got 52.6% of the votes cast in the presidential election and his rival, Nelson Chamisa of the Citizens Coalition for Change, received 44%. The opposition leader has already rejected the outcome of the presidential election, saying the results were manipulated by ZEC to benefit Zanu PF.

Zanu PF spokesperson, Chris Mutsvangwa, has dismissed these allegations as baseless.
The opposition Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) says Zimbabwe should hold fresh elections saying council, parliamentary and presidential polls held last week were not free, fair and credible.

Speaking to journalists in Harare today, Gift Ostallos Siziba, deputy CCC spokesperson, said the party will be engaging all stakeholders, including the Southern African Development Community, in resolving the political crisis in the country.

Siziba said, It is clear and non-negotiable that we cannot settle for any leader of Zimbabwe who lacks a true democratic mandate. A true, democratic mandate can only be derived from the freely and equally expressed vote of the people. It is therefore clear that no one can be inaugurated as president on the basis of this fatally flawed election and these illegitimate results. Thus, there is only one option: we must have fresh elections.

The fatally flawed execution of this election has fully obscured the will of the people. There is no alternative but a new, clean, fresh election to let the people freely and equally decide who shall lead our country. Only a fresh election, in which the voters roll is provided as required by law; in which no systematic intimidation is allowed outside the booths as required by law; in which all polling booths are open during full daylight hours as required by law; after which all results are fully and transparently tabulated; only that can possibly provide a democratic mandate. The election must be preceded by political and electoral reforms agreed to by all stakeholders, chief amongst which is disbanding ZEC as currently constituted.

He could not say it they will take the matter to court, noting that they will use many ways of ensuring that there is democracy in Zimbabwe.

Zimbabwean officials were unreachable for comment but police spokesperson, Paul Nyathi, issued a warning that they will punish those planning to engage in public protest to express their anger over the outcome of the elections.

In a statement, Nyathi said, The police has taken note of offensive messages circulating on social media platforms openly agitating for violence and illegal gatherings especially in Harare and Bulawayo. The public is accordingly advised to ignore these messages are being circulated by elements who are not resident in the country.

He said the police is on high alert and will deal decisively with unruly elements bent on disturbing the current peaceful environment obtaining in the country.

The Zimbabwe Electoral Commission declared President-elect Emmerson Mnangagwa winner of the 2023 presidential election.

Opposition Citizens Coalition for Change interim leader, Nelson Chamisa, has rejected the presidential election results.
Its back-to-school season for girl-group hopefuls. Hybe, the label behind supergroups BTS, NewJeans, and Seventeen, teamed up with Geffen Records to open a school, The Debut: Dream Academy, for 20 girls from across the world to form the next big girl group. And youll be able to stream the final round of auditions on YouTube starting September 1. Fans will be able to vote for their bias alongside an experienced panel of mentors and judges. The series will span 12 weeks until the live finale on November 17. If thats not enough content for you fiends, Hybe x Geffen Records will drop a docuseries, too. The joint venture teamed up with Netflix to release a chronicle of the yearslong process to form the group, out in 2024. Becoming director Nadia Hallgren is set to helm the project.

Contestants were selected after reviewing more than 120,000 submissions following the announcement of the Hybe x Geffen Global Girl Group Audition in November 2021. Hailing from Slovakia, the U.S., Argentina, Japan, Switzerland, Australia, Belarus, Sweden, Thailand, Korea, Brazil, and the Philippines, the finalists have been quietly training for the past year in Los Angeles under the K-pop training, artist development, and management system. It marks the first time the model has been used for a U.S.-based global group. Only those who earned magna cum laude in cunt-ometrics will debut.
Photo-Illustration: Vulture

Ali Hazelwood, a New York Times best-selling author of the romance novels The Love Hypothesis, Love on the Brain, and Love, Theoretically, found her literary agent in January 2020 in an unusual way. Instead of the long process most authors undertake that involves sending out countless letters seeking representation, it was an agent who reached out after reading stories Hazelwood had written on Archive of Our Own, a popular fan-fiction site. Her stories focused on a relationship between the saber-crossed Star Wars duo Kylo Ren and Rey Skywalker, a pairing often abbreviated to Reylo. Once Hazelwood posted that she was considering reworking her fics to publish them, Thao Le from the Sandra Dijkstra Literary Agency sent a message encouraging her to submit. Theyve worked together since, and today, Hazelwoods career comes full circle with the publication of From a Certain Point of View: Return of the Jedi, an official collection of Star Wars short stories that includes one by her.

That pathway to representation was an inversion of the one experienced by Lauren Billings and Christina Hobbs almost a decade prior. Back in 2011, the author pair  who publish as Christina Lauren  felt they needed to hide from their agent the fact that they had met while writing Twilight fan fiction. At the time, E.L. James avoided emphasizing that her blockbuster erotic novel, Fifty Shades of Grey, had begun as a Twilight fanfic titled Masters of the Universe, which gave Billings and Hobbs the impression that the publishing industry wouldnt take fan-fiction works as seriously as original content.

When they finally told their agent, Holly Root, she was delighted and took a book based on one of their fics, Beautiful Bastard, to publishing houses. It sold in just 12 hours. The pair have since published nearly 30 novels, and theyve hit the New York Times best-seller list multiple times.

Once considered a frivolous endeavor undertaken by sex-obsessed amateurs, fan fiction is now fully in fashion, enabling romance writers  and their publishers  to celebrate (and capitalize on) their Archive of Our Own roots. In July, Julie Soto, who writes Harry Potter fan fiction envisioning a relationship between Hermione Granger and Draco Malfoy, published her debut novel, Forget Me Not. The upcoming titles My Roommate Is a Vampire, You, Again, and The Hurricane Wars, as well as multiple 2022 releases, have their origins in Reylo fanfic; so prevalent is that pairing that its become a meme in romance fan spaces to imagine Adam Driver walking into a bookstore and seeing himself on the covers of dozens of titles.

Top publishing houses including Hachette, HarperCollins, and Penguin Random House are making a clear push in the space, with proper package and promotional rollouts. Marketing materials have embraced  critics might say too much  fanfic-style tropes such as enemies to lovers, only one bed, fake dating, and fated mates that match the tagging system found on Archive of Our Own. (The odder yet nevertheless popular male pregnancy trope hasnt achieved quite as much mainstream traction.) The Love Hypothesis even features fan art on the cover.

The appeal is understandable: Fic writers bring knowledge of how to market a story and build an audience, a boon for editorial houses. The fans authors have gained writing fic will buy books, in some cases carrying them to the best-seller list. For writers who demonstrate a facility for telling a certain kind of story, the process of transitioning into writing traditional books is as much a matter of format and structure as anything else.

Not that those are trivial elements. Romance novels rarely run longer than 100,000 words and typically have a three-act structure. Fan-fiction stories can run hundreds of thousands of words and take a meandering approach to plot. Theres a learning curve. When youre writing a romance, theres a beginning and an end. You have a plot and emotional beats, explains romance author and fan-fiction reader Adriana Herrera. With a fic its more episodic. Theres a different flow to it.

Beyond the structural nature of adapting their work, fanfic writers often have to reskin IP-based elements. Some fanfic writers, Hazelwood and Christina Lauren included, rewrite their fics before publishing them. Its a process known as filing off the serial numbers, which involves more than simply changing the names. Thats how Hazelwoods Reylo fanfic became The Love Hypothesis: While her fic Head Over Feet put Kylo and Rey in an academic setting instead of a galaxy far, far away, when it came time to revise the story for book publishing, she also added an antagonist, condensed characters, combined scenes, and raised the stakes with a tight timeline, all changes that gave it a more traditional narrative arc.

Hazelwood describes rewriting her fiction as harrowing, explaining that it was far more difficult than writing an original book. Christa Tomlinson, an indie romance writer, says it took her months to transform a fic based on WWE into a story about a SWAT team. Building original characters  their quirks and distinct traits  proved more difficult for her than developing a plot. She chose the law-enforcement world because it allowed her to keep the sense of camaraderie and brotherhood from her original fic while moving it out of a wrestling milieu. Some of the plot had to change as a result, though Tomlinson kept the bones of her story the same.

Not all fic writers are benefiting from the boom  yet, at least. Publishers have made some progress diversifying their love stories, but disparities remain. In a dynamic that mirrors traditional publishing, white fic readers dont widely consume stories about characters of color written by people of color. That leads to fewer opportunities for those writers  even as they embrace the same styles and stories as their white peers. Similarly, queer love stories, especially those featuring two male leads, are wildly popular in fan-fiction libraries, but the Big Five publishing houses havent repackaged these stories the same way they did for Hazelwood or Billings and Hobbs.

Those shortcomings notwithstanding, the fan-fiction-to-romance pipeline continues to grow. Earlier this year, the Reylo fandom helped propel books from their favorite fic writers to the top of the Barnes & Noble best-seller list during the stores annual preorder sale, even with minimal advertising from editorial houses. YA fantasy author Rosamund Hodge promises her upcoming release, What Monstrous Gods, has Reylo vibes. Indie publisher Lake Country Press has built a niche business around publishing Reylo books, including upcoming books Sliding into Love by Juliet Bridges and Katrina Kwans Knives, Seasoning and a Dash of Love. Julie Soto promises her next book, Not Another Love Song, will be familiar to fanfic readers.

Jen Prokop, romance critic and co-host of the romance podcast Fated Mates, points to Hazelwood as a model for fan-fiction authors looking to publish original works. The Love Hypothesis, she says, is clearly Reylo fan fiction to people who know, but to others, its a fun romance featuring two scientists. Ali is clearly a big romance reader as well as being a fic reader, she says. I think part of the reason that shes such a success is that she knows both fic and the genre.

Even Hollywood has noticed the trend. Last October, Bisous Pictures, which produced Netflixs Persuasion adaptation, announced it would be bringing The Love Hypothesis to screens. Fans immediately took to social media to express their hopes  half in jest, half completely serious  that Star Wars co-stars Adam Driver and Daisy Ridley would play the movies leads.
BEIJING, Aug. 29 (Xinhua) -- Shi Taifeng, a senior official of the Communist Party of China (CPC), on Tuesday urged non-CPC intellectuals to leverage their expertise to contribute to the rejuvenation of the Chinese nation.

Shi, a member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and head of the United Front Work Department of the CPC Central Committee, made the remarks at a seminar joined by representatives of non-CPC academicians, experts, and overseas-educated Chinese.

Shi urged non-CPC intellectuals to further enhance their political integrity, leverage their expertise, actively facilitate the country's high-quality development, promote common prosperity, and build a modern Chinese civilization.

During the seminar, the representatives shared their thoughts on building consensus and leveraging strengths through the united front platform. They also expressed their wish to join the united effort and serve the country with their expertise. 
COLOMBO, Aug. 29 (Xinhua) -- Sri Lanka's cabinet has approved the purchase of 50 electric buses for passenger services in the country's Western Province, a statement from the government information department here said on Tuesday.

The statement listing the decisions made at a cabinet meeting said that these buses would be operated as a public-private partnership project.

It said the increase of the number of electric buses to 200 will help enable rendering general transport facilities in more routes.

Minister of Transport Bandula Gunawardena recently said that by 2048 Sri Lanka will integrate electric buses into the public transport fleet, aligning with global sustainability goals.

The President's Media Division said earlier this month that the global positioning system (GPS) tracking and e-ticketing facilities will be soon introduced to enhance the convenience and reliability of the public transport system. 
Rome tourism councillor hits back at Italian culture minister.

Video footage of rats running around amid rubbish near the Colosseum has sparked a row between Rome officials and Italy's culture minister Gennaro Sangiuliano.

"It is shameful that the most important archaeological area in the world is in this condition", the minister told Tgr RAI Lazio on Monday, slamming the situation as "intolerable".

Sangiuliano stressed that the area where the rats were filmed by tourists comes under the remit of the city, not the culture ministry (or the Colosseum archaeological park).

The city intervened over the weekend to tackle the rat infestation in green areas around the Colosseum however the minister said he plans to convene talks to address the issue in the coming days, stating: "I'm not satisfied with a one-off cleaning only to find ourselves in the same situation in two weeks".

Sangiuliano also said the ministry was ready to "reclaim" the area around the Colosseum from the city of Rome, claiming there is a need for more regular cleaning as well as putting an end to the widespread practice of hawkers selling souvenirs and water illegally.

Il Colosseo e un biglietto da visita dellItalia nel mondo. Allo studio un patto per il decoro.

Su @TgrRaiLazio pic.twitter.com/aKTCNksaiJ  Gennaro Sangiuliano (@g_sangiuliano) August 28, 2023

The capital's councillor for tourism and major events Alessandro Onorato hit back at the minister's remarks, boasting that "Rome will break every record for tourist arrivals this year."

"I'm sorry that Minister Sangiuliano underlines only one negative aspect without noticing the enormous effort made by the [city] administration to reach these numbers in tourism in the capital after years of stalemate for the sector," Onorato said, adding that the problem of rats affects big cities "from New York to London, from Paris to Milan."

Onorato said that tourists visiting Rome are more concerned about getting ripped off by touts reselling Colosseum tickets at "triple the price", a situation that "the state superintendence and culture ministry don't seem to want to see", describing it as an emergency "that damages Italy and the credibility of Rome".

The capital's environment councillor Sabrina Alfonsi also stepped into the debate, acknowledging that "like in every city in the world, there have always been rats in Rome and, I fear, there always will be", but stressing: "Rome is not a city overrun with rats".

She added that the presence of rodents near the Colosseum is likely linked to works being carried out in the area, describing it as a "very normal phenomenon that often occurs in conjunction with excavations, construction sites and earthmoving".

The director of the Colosseum archaeological park Alfonsina Russo on Monday clarified that the problem of rats "does not in any way concern the internal areas of the park" - which also includes the Roman Forum, Palatine Hill and Domus Aurea - where she said rat extermination is carried out "systematically".

Photo Wanted in Rome
Influencer Venus disappears from social media.

Italy's much-criticised tourism marketing campaign featuring Botticelli's Venus as a "virtual influencer" is the subject of an investigation by the audit court of Lazio, reports La Repubblica.

The tourism ministry reportedly faces accusations of wasting public money on the "Open to Meraviglia" campaign which disappeared abruptly from social media during the summer tourist season.

The campaign faced a wave a criticism when it was launched by tourism minister Daniela Santanche in April, with critics accusing it of being tacky, embarrassing and relying on tired stereotypes.

There was further controversy when Il Fatto Quotidiano reported that part of the promotional video was filmed in Slovenia, while an Italian marketing company purchased the Open to Meraviglia domain name after spotting that it was not registered.

The most recent post on the campaign's Instagram profile is dated 27 June, while its Twitter, Facebook and TikTok profiles can no longer be found.

The promotional video introducing the virtual Venus, who wears a miniskirt and eats a slice of pizza in front of Italian heritage landmarks, also appears to have been removed.

In response to questions from Fanpage in mid-August, Santanche said the disappearance of Venus was a "considered choice" and that the virtual influencer would "be back soon".
SANAA, Aug. 29 (Xinhua) -- The Yemeni government welcomes Qatar's support for the unity and stability of Yemen, Yemeni Foreign Minister Ahmed Awad Bin Mubarak said on Tuesday.

The Yemeni diplomat made the remarks during his meeting with Qatar's Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani in the Qatari capital of Doha, Yemen's state-run Saba news agency reported.

The two officials discussed various aspects of bilateral cooperation, including "reactivating the convening of joint ministerial committees" between the two countries, which was last held in 2013, as well as restarting joint political consultation mechanisms.

They also discussed means to provide more facilities for the Yemeni expats in Qatar.

During the meeting, Bin Mubarak praised Qatar's firm support for the Presidential Leadership Council and the unity and stability of Yemen, said the report.

For his part, Al-Thani stressed the importance of "strengthening bilateral relations and raising the level of cooperation and coordination in various fields with the Yemeni government," it added.

The Yemeni minister arrived in Doha on Sunday at an official invitation from Qatar.

The visit came amid international efforts to renew a truce between the Yemeni government and Houthi rebels to pave the way for a political settlement and permanent peace.

Yemen has been mired in a civil war since late 2014 when the Iran-backed Houthi group seized control of several northern provinces and forced the Saudi-backed Yemeni government out of the capital Sanaa. The yearslong war has killed tens of thousands of people and pushed the country to the brink of collapse. 
Ariccia welomes return of Sagra della Porchetta.

This weekend the small town of Ariccia near Rome hosts its popular Sagra della Porchetta, in honour of the savoury, fatty and moist boneless roast pork that is traditional to the region.

The 2023 event, now in its 71st edition, will take place from 1-3 September and will be enlivened with live music, dancing and plenty of porchetta tasting.

A highlight of the three-day festival is the traditional throwing of porchetta sandwiches into the crowd, scheduled in Piazza di Corte at 18.30 on Sunday 3 September.
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In two weeks, Chile will observe the 50th anniversary of one of the darkest moments in Latin Americas tortuous chapter of the Cold War: the coup detat by General Augusto Pinochet on September 11, 1973, that ousted President Salvador Allende and squashed Chilean democracy. Get a curated selection of 10 of our best stories in your inbox every weekend. ArrowRight The US-backed coup is a key episode in a bloody history marked by military takeovers from Argentina and Brazil to El Salvador and Guatemala; of strongmen imposing their will at the point of a gun, disappearing opponents, scarring the land with mass graves.

We can only hope this era stays behind us.

Democracy has taken hold across most of the region since the end of the Cold War curbed Washingtons interest in toppling governments of the left. A referendum in 1988 put an end to Pinochets bloody rule, ushering in a multiparty democracy that led Chile to become the best performing economy in Latin America, ranked highest in the region by the United Nations Human Development Index.

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And yet despite the scars left by juntas and dictators, citizens across Latin America somehow find themselves tempted by the prospect of authoritarian rule.

According to the latest Latinobarometro poll , a set of face-to-face surveys of some 20,000 people across Latin America from February to April, democracy is losing friends pretty much everywhere.

Only 48% of respondents to the poll agreed that democracy is preferable to any other form of government. This is 15 percentage points less than in 2010. It is the lowest share since the survey began in 1995.

By contrast, 54% of respondents said they wouldnt mind a non-democratic government coming to power if it could solve the nations problems, 10 percentage points more than 20 years ago.

The decline in support for democracy has been precipitous in some countries. Only 35% of Mexicans believe democracy is the best form of government, down from 43% just three years ago. Some 70% of Hondurans and 63% of Salvadoreans wouldnt mind a non-democratic government that could fix things.

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Democracys popularity is holding up comparatively well in Chile. Still, it has slipped to only 58%. And only 28% of Chileans say they are satisfied with how democracy is working in their country, half the share of 2010.

According to another poll , taken between May and July by Chiles Center for Public Studies, two-thirds of Chileans agree with the proposition that instead of worrying so much about peoples rights, what this country needs is a firm government. Thats more than twice the share that endorsed the statement in 2019.

Democracys troubles are not exclusive to Latin America . The V-Dem Institute reports that 5.7 billion people lived under autocratic governments last year. Thats 72% of the worlds population, up from 46% ten years before. Advances in global levels of democracy made over the last 35 years have been wiped out, it noted.

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Authoritarianism has also been making strides in the US. According to a poll published last month by NORC and the Associated Press , 49% of Americans say democracy is not working . Still, dissatisfaction in Latin America seems more extreme: 69% of respondents to the Latinobarometro survey said democracy is not working for them.

Whats going on? Insecurity  the reality or perception of violence careening out of control  surely plays a big role.

Consider El Salvador, where President Nayib Bukeles scorched earth tactics against criminal gangs enjoy such popularity that the president has decided to defy the constitution and run for re-election.

Four of five Salvadorans say their country is progressing, the highest share in Latin America by far. Only 28% think Salvadoran society needs profound or radical change, the lowest share in the region. Nine out of ten approve of their government. And 64% claim to be satisfied with democracy  the highest share since the survey started in 1995.

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A lot of this flows from a single fact: Three-quarters of Salvadorans believe they are safe, protected from crime. Indeed, the murder rate in El Salvador declined to under 8 per 100,000 inhabitants last year  down from over 52 per 100,000 in 2018. In 2018 only 11% of Salvadorans were satisfied with how democracy worked.

Chile offers a telling contrast. It remains one of the safest countries in Latin America  with a homicide rate of only 5 per 100,000. Still, only 17% of Chileans believe themselves safe from crime. Not coincidentally, 69% of them believe their country needs deep changes and only a quarter believe it is making progress. Barely 40% support their government, according to the Latinobarometro survey.

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The rising concern over public security, however, cannot completely account for the increasing disillusionment of Latin American voters, who have booted incumbent parties out of office in 18 of the last 19 presidential elections, including the one last Sunday in Guatemala, where Bernardo Arevalo of the tiny Semilla Movement trounced former first lady Sandra Torres, representing the countrys political elite.

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Democracy, it seems, is not delivering in more ways than one. Seven out of ten respondents to Latinobarometros surveys say governments in the region are in the hands of a small clique of powerful elites serving their own interests. Three-quarters believe income distribution in their countries is unjust, and fewer than half think there is equality of opportunity.

Fewer than a third believe there has been progress in the battle against corruption. Only 16% trust political parties, fewer than a quarter trust Congress and only 29% trust the judiciary. Only 36% of people in the region express trust in their president.

Overall, the tableau sketched out by Latinobarometro looks a lot like an indictment. With the phantom of hardline authoritarianism looming in the rearview mirror, it suggests ominous prospects for the political future of Latin Americas young democracies.

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It might not portend a return to military dictatorship. Indeed, 61% of respondents in the Latinobarometro poll said that under no conditions could they support a military government, a share that has remained roughly stable over the last 20 years.But authoritarianism can take a different face, that of populist outsiders coming to rescue the nation. Inevitably, they find themselves tempted to curtail civil rights and undermine democratic institutions in the service of their power.

The list is getting long, from Brazils former president Jair Bolsonaro to Mexicos current one, Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador; from Bukele in El Salvador to Javier Milei, Argentinas presidential frontrunner, who has pledged to blow up the political status quo.

The poll by Chiles Center for Public Studies asked Chileans about their partisan sympathies. The most popular, by far, is the Republican Party  heir to the legacy of General Augusto Pinochet.

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More From Bloomberg Opinion:

 The BRICS Are Neither the Anti-West Nor a Bloc: Andreas Kluth

 Chinas Financial Diplomacy Has Ways to Go: Daniel Moss

 BRICS Is Broken and Should Be Scrapped: Opinion Wrap

This column does not necessarily reflect the opinion of the editorial board or Bloomberg LP and its owners.

Eduardo Porter is a Bloomberg Opinion columnist covering Latin America, US economic policy and immigration. He is the author of American Poison: How Racial Hostility Destroyed Our Promise and The Price of Everything: Finding Method in the Madness of What Things Cost.

More stories like this are available on bloomberg.com/opinion

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Russian President Vladimir Putin doesnt go abroad much these days. To visit any of the 123 countries that are members of the International Criminal Court risks his arrest on warrants for alleged war crimes in Ukraine. While the warrants have limited Putins travels, its far from certain that he or other senior Russian leaders will be brought to justice under international law. Meanwhile, the ICC is investigating other potential atrocities. For its part, Ukraine put captured Russian soldiers on trial for war crimes within months of the conflicts start.

1. What are war crimes?

They are violations of the rules of warfare as set out in various treaties, notably the Geneva Conventions, a series of agreements concluded between 1864 and 1949. War crimes include willful killing, torture, rape, using starvation as a weapon, shooting combatants who have surrendered, deploying banned weapons such as chemical and biological arms, and deliberately attacking civilian targets. The Kremlin has rejected allegations that its troops have committed such transgressions in Ukraine.

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2. What is Putin accused of?

In arrest warrants issued March 17, the Hague-based ICC accused Putin and Maria Alekseyevna Lvova-Belova, his commissioner for childrens rights, of bearing responsibility for the unlawful deportation of children from Ukraine to Russia since the war began. Human rights experts estimate that more than 19,000 children were deported as of late August. Russian officials say they have taken the children in as a war-time humanitarian gesture.

3. How have the warrants limited Putins travels?

Since the ICC announced the warrants, Putin hasnt left Russia except to visit Russian-occupied areas of Ukraine. He skipped the mid-August BRICS summit in South Africa after that country made clear it would have to arrest him as a signatory to the ICC. In late August, the Kremlin said that in October Putin would travel to China, which is not a party to the ICC.

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4. What crimes is the ICC investigating?

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It sent a team of 42 people  its largest such deployment  to Ukraine to investigate crimes that fall within the courts jurisdiction. Although Ukraine is not an ICC member, it accepted the courts jurisdiction for incidents on its territory starting months before Russia seized the countrys Crimea peninsula in 2014. In addition to war crimes, the ICC is investigating crimes against humanity and genocide. The former are defined as acts such as murder, enslavement, deportation, imprisonment, rape and apartheid when committed as part of a widespread or systematic attack against a civilian population. Genocide is defined in a 1948 UN convention as specific acts intended to destroy, in whole or in part, a national, ethnical, racial or religious group. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has accused Russia of genocide, saying Putin intends to end Ukraines existence as a nation.

5. What are the prospects of trying Putin or other Russian officials?

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Barring a change of regime in Moscow, not good. The ICC doesnt permit trials in absentia, and the court is unlikely to gets its hands on Putin or his lieutenants. It relies on its member states to make arrests, and accused Russian officials can always avoid traveling to a country that might turn them over. Of the two dozen people against whom the ICC has pursued war crimes cases, about a third remain at large. Those charged have been members of armed groups rather than political or state military leaders, with four exceptions  a Libyan general, Sudans ex-president, Omar al-Bashir, and two of his ministers  none of whom have been turned over to the ICC. Numerous political leaders were prosecuted for barbarities in the Balkans and Rwanda, but those tribunals were established by the Security Council, where Russia has a veto.

6. Whats Ukraines approach?

With the help of a number of countries, including the US, Ukrainian officials began collecting evidence of war crimes early in the conflict. By mid-2023, they had opened 80,000 cases. In the first trial, a Ukrainian court sentenced a Russian soldier to life imprisonment for killing an unarmed civilian. In the second, two soldiers got 11.5 years for shelling an educational facility. In a commentary published in The Conversation, Robert Goldman, president of the International Commissions of Jurists, said that Ukraines approach was permissible under international law but arguably not wise. He noted that the International Committee of the Red Cross has cautioned against holding such trials during hostilities because of the improbability that the accused could properly prepare a defense in that setting.

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7. How have war crimes been prosecuted in the past?

In an early exercise of international criminal justice, Allied powers tried and punished German and Japanese leaders after World War II, sentencing some to death. Because the Allies granted themselves immunity from war crimes charges, the tribunals were criticized as victors justice. To avoid that conflict of interest, the United Nations Security Council created independent, international tribunals to prosecute atrocities in the Balkans and Rwanda in the 1990s. Those horrors revived a 19th-century idea of establishing a permanent world court to hold people accountable for acts of mass inhumanity. The ICC was born in 2002 out of a treaty called the Rome Statute. Apart from Russia and China, notable non-signatories include India and the US, which says that putting its citizens under the courts jurisdiction would violate their constitutional rights.

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The flagship of Asias richest tycoon is looking a tad overburdened with businesses that are mature enough to be cast off on their own. Successful public floats of telecom and retail units will do more than make Mukesh Ambani a centi-billionaire  they may well determine the hold of the family-run conglomerate on Indias broader economy when control passes to the next generation.

That transition could arrive by 2028. At Reliance Industries Ltd.s annual general meeting Monday, the 66-year-old announced that his three children would be joining the board, even as he continues as chairman and managing director for five more years.

Reliances sway has grown following a $150 billion investment spree over the past decade. It now controls 15% of the total fixed capital deployed at Indias top 300 nonfinancial firms, employs 7% of the workforce and garners 10% of their combined EBITDA(1). Reliance is no longer just a corporate, but a precious Indian institution, Ambani said.

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The market, however, wants to see some of that preciousness translate into a higher share price. After recently spinning off a new consumer-finance venture worth $16 billion, the enterprise is valued at $232 billion, including net debt. Macquarie Group Ltd. analysts downgraded the stock to underperform last month. A premium for retail and telecom may already be embedded in the share price, and investors may be assessing new energy  the groups next big bet  at around $20 billion, they wrote.

Thats already rich for an unproven thesis. Reliance wants to put up gigafactories to manufacture solar modules from sand, low-cost wind turbines using carbon fiber from its own plants, batteries powered by lithium and sodium ions, and electrolyzers to split water into hydrogen and oxygen. Considering that these plans are still in progress, the $20 billion implied valuation carries a lot of respect for Ambanis reputation for project execution, chops the younger generation is yet to demonstrate.

In his address, Ambani promised a new and virtuous multi-decade value creation cycle defined by faster growth, higher revenues, better margins and increased EBITDA, significantly enhancing the earnings multiples of each of Reliances businesses. This is where the market seems to be less sanguine than the billionaire. The price-to-earnings ratio dipped below 25 after the chairmans speech. It had soared well past 30 when Ambani was raising billions of dollars of equity from global investors including Googles parent Alphabet Inc. and Meta Platforms Inc. (then Facebook) during the Covid-19 lockdown.

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The focus on leadership succession cant detract from the need to validate bets that Ambani has himself made so far, particularly in telecom and retail. Through those two capital-guzzling gambles (and renewable energy, more recently), he has sought to transform the petrochemicals empire his dad, Dhirubhai, left him.

However, instead of indicating a timeframe for much-awaited initial public offerings, the tycoon talked of things that will cost yet more money. The plans include 2,000 megawatts of artificial intelligence-ready computing capacity, fixed-wireless broadband for 200 million Indian homes, expansion of a fledgling consumer-goods franchise to other parts of Asia and Africa, global leadership in carbon fiber, and more investment in gas exploration. These are in addition to capital required for 100 gigawatts of clean-energy generation by 2030 and a nationwide 5G rollout by December.

For now, Indias most valuable public firm is trying to establish the success of its makeover in the private market; such as by getting Qatars sovereign wealth fund to cough up $1 billion for 1% of Reliance Retail recently. A $100 billion price tag is nearly double what private equity paid for it during the September 2020 fundraising round. Had it been listed, Reliance Retail would have ranked among the Top 4 companies in India and Top 10 retailers globally, Ambani said at the annul general meeting. Investors, however, are too hungry to be satisfied only by the aroma. Instead of taking the lid off the pot only to stir it some more, why not serve them the dish?

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That way, the stock market also gets a chance to weigh the next generation. At 31, the twins Akash and Isha Ambani are a decade older than their dad when he joined the Reliance board in 1977. They are no longer too young to be helming publicly traded digital and retail enterprises, respectively. The complex new-energy unit, overseen by Anant, their 28-year-old sibling, will need five to 10 years before its IPO-ready. At least for the next five years, the millennial leaders will have their fathers stewardship of Reliances investment-grade Baa2 credit rating, which is a notch higher than Moodys Investors Services assessment for the Indian government. Theres plenty of room for youthful mistakes.

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It helps the group that rival Gautam Adani, who had overtaken Ambani last year in global wealth rankings, has lost his footing after a massive short-seller attack in January. While Adani is still highly acquisitive, he may be narrowing the field of his ambition to infrastructure and utilities, leaving the Ambani family free to grow in areas that have more to do with consumer demand in the worlds most-populous nation. From telecom and media to retailing and owning brands, these opportunities are large in both number and scope.

Then theres the whole new area of payments, lending, asset management and insurance. Jio Financial Services Ltd. recent stock-market listing hasnt unlocked value  it has simply given Reliance shareholders a stake in a shadow bank that will now get created from scratch. Until its strategies pan out, a large part of the financial ventures market capitalization will come from its stake in the main firm, where it may be subject to a typical, 20% holding-company discount.

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A smooth transition to the next generation is important. It will help preserve family wealth and the conglomerates clout in India. But the telecom and retail IPOs need to arrive soon. Otherwise, excess baggage on the mothership could riddle it with a permanent drag.

More from Bloomberg Opinion:

 Indian Tycoon May Avoid Stepping on Rivals Toes: Andy Mukherjee

 AI Arms Control Can Help Keep Cold War II on Ice: Niall Ferguson

 Consumers Take the Wheel of Energy Transition: David Fickling

(1) Earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortization.

This column does not necessarily reflect the opinion of the editorial board or Bloomberg LP and its owners.

Andy Mukherjee is a Bloomberg Opinion columnist covering industrial companies and financial services in Asia. Previously, he worked for Reuters, the Straits Times and Bloomberg News.

More stories like this are available on bloomberg.com/opinion

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Six months after Louisville bank employee killed five coworkers and wounded eight others, survivors, victims families and his parents wonder why it was so easy for a troubled young man to get a rifle. Some are planning to sue the gunmaker.
UNITED NATIONS, Aug. 29 (Xinhua) -- The UN General Assembly on Tuesday held a high-level plenary meeting to mark the International Day Against Nuclear Tests.

UN General Assembly President Csaba Korosi, who chaired the meeting, warned of "a global catastrophe" brought by nuclear weapons.

"We see many signs that nuclear stockpiles and capabilities are growing, contravening the NPT (Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons)," he said. "We are closer than any other time in this century to global catastrophe. And yet we fail to see the terrifying trap that we have set for humanity by betting on nuclear weapons."

Korosi said investment in and ongoing modernization of nuclear weapons is incompatible with humanity's goals, aspirations, and promises. There is a need for a human-centered approach to disarmament -- one focused on preventing suffering and pointless environmental destruction, and one implemented through an inclusive and consistent multilateral process.

"We cannot allow the dangers to grow. The CTBT (Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty) is a key part of the international disarmament structure. It has created a powerful norm against nuclear testing. Yet, its failure to enter into force -- 27 years after its adoption -- is a serious loophole in our global framework," he said.

He warned that the use of any nuclear weapon for any purpose will immediately spiral out of control. The so-called "limited nuclear war" does not exist.

"For the safety of everyone around the globe, we must continue working toward a world free from the nuclear threat," he added.

Before the General Assembly meeting, Korosi joined a symbolic walk to mark the International Day Against Nuclear Tests, which falls on Aug. 29. Also participating were UN Undersecretary-General for Disarmament Affairs Izumi Nakamitsu and Robert Floyd, the executive secretary of the Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty Organization.

In a message on the international day, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said a legally binding prohibition on nuclear tests is a fundamental step toward a world free of nuclear weapons.

The CTBT, though not yet in force, remains a powerful testament to humanity's will to lift the shadow of nuclear annihilation from the world, once and for all, he said.

The CTBT was adopted by the UN General Assembly in September 1996. But it has not entered into force. 
In California, housing has long been an intractable problem, and Silicon Valleys moguls have long been frustrated with the Bay Areas real estate shortage, and the difficulty of building in California generally, as their workforces have exploded. Companies like Google have clashed with cities like Palo Alto and Mountain View over expanding their headquarters, while their executives have funded pro-development politicians and the Yes in my backyard activists who have pushed for looser development and zoning laws in hopes of making it easier to build faster and taller. The practical need for more space has at times morphed into lofty visions of building entire cities from scratch. Several years ago, Y Combinator, a startup incubator, announced an initiative with dreams of turning empty land into a new economy and society. Years before that, Peter Thiel, the PayPal co-founder and billionaire Facebook investor, invested in the Seasteading Institute, an attempt to build a new society on lily padlike structures in the law-and-tax free open ocean. Travis Air Force Bases proximity to the land deals prompted speculation about the motives of the people behind Flannery. Credit: Jim Wilson/The New York Times But while these ideas have garnered lots of attention and curiosity  lauded in some corners for vision and derided in others for hubris  they have been little more than talk. As Flannery began seeking property, it bought so much land, so fast, that it spooked locals who had no idea who the buyer was or the plans it had in mind. Catherine Moy, mayor of Fairfield, California, started posting about the project on Facebook several years ago after she got a call from a farmer about some mystery buyer making offers throughout the county. In an interview, Moy said she had gone to the county assessors office and found that Flannery had purchased tens of thousands of acres.

Representative John Garamendi, who along with Mike Thompson, another Democrat, represents the surrounding region in Congress, said he had been trying to figure out the companys identity for four years. I couldnt find out anything, he said. On Friday, he said that had suddenly changed. This week, representatives for Flannery reached out to him and other elected officials requesting meetings about their plans. That meeting is now being scheduled, he said. They would come with an offer of four and five times over the market at the time. They were deals that they couldnt pass up. Catherine Moy, mayor of Fairfield, California This is their first effort, ever, to talk to any of the local representatives, myself included, he said.

The land that Flannery has been purchasing is not zoned for residential use, and even in his 2017 pitch, Moritz acknowledged that rezoning could clearly be challenging  a nod to Californias notoriously difficult and litigious development process. Loading To pull off the project, the company will almost certainly have to use the states initiative system to get Solano County residents to vote on it. The hope is that voters will be enticed by promises of thousands of local jobs; increased tax revenue; and investments in infrastructure like parks, a performing arts centre, shopping, dining and a trade school. The Bay Area is among the countrys most expensive regions, even after rent and home prices fell after the pandemic. Economists and housing experts have for decades blamed a long-standing housing shortage and Californias inability to build enough to meet demand. Moritz nodded to this in the email to the investor, arguing this effort should relieve some of the Silicon Valley pressures we all feel  rising home prices, homelessness, congestion etc. He added that his group had secured some 1400 acres for less than $US5000 per acre. The price per acre has since escalated, and the companys most recent purchases have neared $US20,000 per acre, according to court documents and people familiar with the matter.

The purchases burst into public view this spring, when lawyers for Flannery filed a lawsuit in US District Court, accusing landowners of colluding to inflate prices. The group focused on Jepson Prairie and Montezuma Hills, an agricultural patch of eastern Solano County between the cities of Fairfield and Rio Vista, according to the lawsuit. This area is mostly unpopulated and covered with ranches, windmills and power lines. Representative John Garamendi, Democrat of California, said he had been trying to figure out Flannerys identity for four years. Credit: AP In November 2018, the company sent offers to most landowners in this area, the lawsuit said, and included incentives such as allowing sellers to retain income from wind turbines, as well as stay on the properties rent-free under long-term lease-back agreements. Over the five years, the company purchased some 140 properties from 400 owners, the lawsuit said. This month, a lawyer representing landowners jointly filed a motion to dismiss the case. In July, three landowners said they had reached a potential settlement with Flannery. Other owners could not be reached for comment this week or had declined to do so.

As the offers continued and prices escalated, landowners in Solano County started buzzing about who was buying so much land for so much money. They would come with an offer of four and five times over the market at the time, Moy said. They were deals that they couldnt pass up. Flannerys offers were creating multimillionaires across the county, but no one seemed to know what the mysterious company intended to do with land that now amounted to a large chunk of the entire county. Loading That changed last week, when residents started receiving texts and emails with a poll gauging their opinions on a number of questions. One asked them to rate the favorability of several names including Joe Biden, Donald Trump and Flannery Associates. Another question began with a description of a possible ballot initiative for a project that would include a new city with tens of thousands of new homes, a large solar energy farm, orchards with over a million new trees, and over 10,000 acres of new parks and open space.
Many Australians couldnt pick him out in a crowd, but Steven Bartlett has interviewed some of the worlds biggest celebrities, CEOs and thinkers. Michael Pollan, Rita Ora, Richard Branson, Deepak Chopra and more have sat across from Bartlett on his podcast, The Diary of a CEO. And like his famous guests, the 31-year-old British-Nigerian has many lessons of his own to share.

Bartlett was born in Botswana to a Nigerian mother and English father, and moved to England at age two. His family struggled financially, and with his parents busy working, Bartlett spent a lot of time alone. I was the poor black kid in an all-white middle-class area, in an all-white school, who didnt feel like it was enough, he says.

Steven Bartlett, host of podcast The Diary of a CEO. Credit: Olivia Spencer

At 18, Bartlett dropped out of university and co-founded Social Chain, a social media marketing agency. Since leaving the company in 2019, Bartlett has been involved in many business ventures, including the launch of Web3 platform Thirdweb, which received a reported $US5 million ($7.7 million) in funding in 2021. Today, he has 2.7 million Instagram followers and another 1.4 million on TikTok. Diary of a CEO, now in its sixth year, has become one of Europes most downloaded podcasts.

This rags-to-riches origin story is a big part of Bartletts self-mythology. But what sets Bartlett apart from figures like Andrew Tate is his willingness to be vulnerable. While Tate sells toxic masculinity to a generation of young men, Bartlett talks about the strength in vulnerability.
Last week, Anthony Albanese and Attorney-General Mark Dreyfus announced one of the most important decisions any government ever makes: the appointment of Australias next chief justice. Upon the retirement of the incumbent Susan Kiefel in October, Stephen Gageler will become the 14th leader of the High Court. They also announced the appointment of the NSW judge Robert Beech-Jones to the vacancy created by Kiefels departure.

The announcement attracted little notice. The national broadcaster regarded the story as of so little importance that it ranked fourth on its radio news bulletin, which led with the retirement of Ita Buttrose. (I guess if you live in ABC-land, the retirement of your chair is a lot more important than the appointment of the head of one of the three branches of government.)

The existing High Court: (from left) Jacqueline Gleeson, James Edelman, Stephen Gageler, Chief Justice Susan Kiefel, Michelle Gordon, Simon Steward and Jayne Jagot.

Not that Dreyfus would have minded the modesty of the coverage. Attorneys-general are judged by the quality of their senior judicial appointments. Absence of controversy is a good measure of success. The four so far made under Dreyfus  Gageler, Debbie Mortimer as Chief Justice of the Federal Court, and Jayne Jagot and Beech-Jones to the High Court  have been well received. All satisfied the double test: that the nominee should be respected professionally and should be untainted by controversy.

After Kiefel, Gageler is the longest-serving member of the court. Before that, he was an impeccable solicitor-general. Because he is the oldest Justice, we should not expect any further appointments before he reaches retirement age in 2028. That is longer than usual for the composition of the court to remain unchanged, which gives Gageler time to put his stamp on its jurisprudence.
NSW Police have discussed the threats with Nines security and management, who interpreted the comments as threats to its staff. Neither you nor the SMH nor any other person has anything to fear from me, LoGiudice told the Herald in an email. He initially said the conversations may have been doctored but subsequently claimed it was banter. There was nothing that implied I will hire an Italian hitman to rifle you, said LoGiudice, insisting that the Italian boy he referenced was a happy former patient of Teos. The family wanted to come to speak to you personally about the good outcome, he said.

The Wolfpack was just a nickname based on our love of dogs, he said. He also offered that an empty 44-gallon drum could be used to ignite physical copies of the newspaper articles rather than burn down the Heralds office. I believe any reasonable person would not feel threatened. Teo declined to respond to questions about the contents of their group chat. Later, at a major fundraiser for his Charlie Teo Foundation and in front of hundreds of paying guests, Teo called this reporter a c---. The Heralds editorial management lodged a complaint with his charity. No reply was received.

The Herald can reveal that in a 2021 presentation about the Transformation of Blacktown, the councils chief executive officer flagged a $100 million land sale to the BBSI group for its billion-dollar development. However, in March this year, the land was sold to developer Lang Walkers company for $42 million, without going to public tender. The same day Walker Corporation bought the land, ASIC documents show Manassa resigned as the sole director and he, Teo and LoGiudice quit as shareholders of the BBSI Group. The principal place of business moved from Manassas single-storey Auburn office for his demolition company to Walkers premises in the Governor Macquarie Tower in Sydneys CBD.

Should Professor Teo not be involved in the project, a bank guarantee of $2 million would be forfeited by the BBSI developer, the council has previously stipulated in public documents. Teo, Walker Corporation and Blacktown Council did not answer specific questions about the status of the project and Teos involvement. Carlo LoGiudice (left) with Melbourne underworld figure Mick Gatto. Within the council, reputational risk concerns were raised as early as 2019 after the Herald revealed Teos and LoGiudices association with Melbourne underworld figure Mick Gatto. The article also raised the multiple attempts to bankrupt LoGiudice, who had featured a number of times in the diaries of the now-jailed former Labor minister Eddie Obeid. In a confidential session, councillors raised the Heralds investigations into Teo and his associates, which, according to one of those present, Mayor Tony Bleasdale brushed aside saying it was only a journalist with a gripe.

In the councils own risk report dated March 2021, it was stated that there was a catastrophic risk if Teo was not involved in the BBSI as the project relies on the professional reputation of Dr Teo AM. The councils risk report also acknowledged concerns about the ability of Teos group to get a project of such magnitude off the ground and that it was expected that the project would be on-sold to a major developer. Mick Gatto and Charlie Teo at a fundraiser. Credit: Tamara Dean Former Labor councillor Kevin Gillies, formerly a senior health official at Western Sydney Area Health Service, said the people of Blacktown may have been misled from the outset about Teos vanity proposal. Show me the money, Gillies demanded of council when the BBSI project was first raised. There was no paperwork or anything. Basically, it was all rhetorical stuff from the mayor [Bleasdale] about what a marvellous surgeon Teo was.

Concerns about the sale of council land for an unsolicited proposal and other issues led Gillies to not contest the 2021 council elections. His parting remark to council was: This thing will never be built as you propose. In July, Teo was found guilty of unsatisfactory professional conduct with a professional standard committee finding he was unethical, failed to exercise appropriate skill and lacked insight and judgment. Loading The findings against Teo and the imposition of onerous supervision conditions have effectively ended Teos ability to operate in Australia. Any future role in an organisation such as the BBSI would bring the burden of possible reputational damage. According to council minutes, on March 15 at least half of Blacktowns councillors tried to rescind the decision to sell the councils land to Walker Corporation.

Bleasdale used his casting vote to get the sale over the line, and the deal was inked the next day. Neither the council nor Bleasdale replied to the Heralds specific questions about the BBSI project which is now estimated to cost $2 billion. Charlie Teos BBSI without Charlie Teo, I dont even know how that works, said a current councillor, who asked not to be named for fear of reprisals. Blacktown Mayor Tony Bleasdale and Lang Walker, of Walker Corporation, at the signing of the land sale deal. The council has previously stated that a key advantage of the BBSI proposal is it provides the ability to fund a significant proportion of the cost of a new council administration building. However, it is not clear how the $150 million council building will be funded as lease documents show that it will cost the council almost $30 million over ten years to rent back their buildings from Walker Corporation.

Its an absolute disaster, said the councillor, who explained that the initial $100 million valuation of the land was based on the sale having a residential component, which made it more valuable. Having acquired the land for less than half, on the basis there is no residential component, and with the council paying massive amounts in rent, Walker Corporation has acquired the councils land for almost nothing said the councillor. Carlo LoGiudice and a copy of one of the messages he sent in a WhatsApp group to business partners including Charlie Teo. Credit: Sydney Morning Herald Youre giving away the farm, said a second councillor. The numbers dont stack up. Ratepayers have contacted the Herald expressing concerns that the council has been dudded in the deal with Walker Corporation and that rate rises or further asset sales might be needed to fund the new council chambers.
Thursday Island hides amid much larger islands cupping milky-blue water set against crescents of sand and emerald hills. As we sail closer, white oblong buildings appear, and wind turbines march across a hilltop.

The ship glides into a beautiful bay without another boat in sight. Grey clouds rumble across the sky, adding to the atmosphere of moody remoteness.

Guiding light: Thursday Island fortification.

This is why a good cruise is so exhilarating: you can arrive somewhere remote without making much effort. Getting to Thursday Island isnt otherwise easy. You can fly from Cairns to Horn Island and transfer by ferry, or you can take a ferry from Cape York  though youll have to get there first.

Viking Orion has nipped over from Darwin while I was sleeping, conveying me in comfort to a place most Australians have heard about but never visited. Anyone determined to see their own country should add it to their bucket list.
The Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan is to halve the $200 ($A311) daily fee it charges tourists in an effort to boost a sector still struggling to recover a year after the end of COVID-19 restrictions.

Bhutan raised its Sustainable Development Fee to $200 per visitor per night, from $65 ($A101), when it ended two years of COVID restrictions in September last year saying the money would go to off-set the carbon generated by visitors.

Bhutan is still waiting for visitors to return post-COVID. Credit: iStock

The new rate of $US100 ($A156) per night would come into effect from September and last for four years, the government said in a statement late on Friday.

This is in view of the important role of the tourism sector in generating employment, earning foreign exchange ... and in boosting overall economic growth, it said.
A new space race is under way and the contrasting fate of two moonshots in the last few days provide a stark waymarker on the rise and fall of great powers.

Russia, once the globes foremost space power, sent an uncrewed mission to the moon and aimed to land on August 19. It crashed spectacularly. Indias moon mission, also uncrewed, lined up to land on the lunar surface four days later. It touched down successfully. The Indian moon lander released a small, six-wheeled rover which is now searching for frozen water, among other things, as a dozen nations seek ways to set up permanent lunar bases.

The live telecast of Chandrayaan-3 landing on the moon. Credit: AP

Russias humiliation was Indias jubilation. More so because both nations were aiming for the same feat  to be the first country to land at the moons south pole with the potential economic and strategic advantages that could bring. And because Russia only decided to make the attempt after India announced its plan. So Moscow raced its Luna-25 to the moon with the express intention of beating Indias Chandrayaan-3 by four days.

The contrasting competence on display is even more remarkable because Russia was once Indias senior partner in space. Delhi put its first satellite into orbit in 1975 only because the then Soviet Union carried it there on one of its rockets. Today, the student has become the teacher.
UNITED NATIONS, Aug. 29 (Xinhua) -- The world body has carried out 200 cross-border missions to Northwest Syria since the first inter-agency visit to Idlib on Feb. 14, following the earthquakes that struck Syria and Turkiye that month, a UN spokesman said Tuesday.

During the mission that took place on Sunday and crossed through Bab al-Salam, World Health Organization (WHO) personnel conducted monitoring visits to health facilities and WHO warehouses in Afrin and Azaz in the Northwest and also met with their local partners, said Stephane Dujarric, spokesman for UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres.

"We and our humanitarian partners are continuing to deliver urgently needed aid through the Bab al-Salam and Al-Ra'ee crossings," he said. "Today, 17 trucks carrying humanitarian shelter items from the International Organization for Migration and the UN Refugee Agency crossed into the Northwest via Bab al-Salam."

Bab al-Salam and Al-Ra'ee, on the Turkish border, were opened for an initial period of three months in the aftermath of the February earthquakes. The authorization has been renewed several times.

Dujarric said the world body is yet to begin to make use of the Bab al-Hawa border crossing, which was the major route of cross-border aid delivery into Northwest Syria before the Security Council failed in July to re-authorize its use.

The Syrian government had since offered to grant permission for aid delivery through Bab al-Hawa, also on the Turkish border, and reached an understanding on Aug. 7 with the United Nations on the continued use of the crossing for six months.

"What is going on is that we're still trying to work out the operational details on how to put the agreement to work," said Dujarric on Tuesday. 
On 18 August 2023, in La Paz, Bolivia, the National Customs Administration of Bolivia reached a significant milestone by unveiling the publication of its first-ever National Time Release Study (TRS) with the support of the SECO-WCO Global Trade Facilitation Programme (GTFP).

The TRS launching event brought together more than 150 participants, including high-ranking officials from the Ministry of Economy and Public Finance, the Bolivian National Customs, the Swiss Embassy in Bolivia, representatives of the public sector and relevant business associations within the trading community. Together, they celebrated Bolivia's accomplishment, as the Customs Administration closed a critical compliance gap with the World Trade Organization's Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA), Article 7.6, and presented a specific action plan and measures to improve clearance times for trade operations in the country.

As a powerful tool for identifying bottlenecks in foreign trade operations, this Study will form the basis for implementing corrective measures and enhancements to streamline import, export, and transit processes, bolster logistical infrastructure, and refine relevant regulations. This will benefit Bolivian businesses and other foreign trade operators, and boost national competitiveness, attract investments, and create a more favorable trade environment.

The findings and recommendations of this Time Release Study in Bolivia will foster public-private dialogue and strengthen the national trade facilitation agenda. This initiative aims to modernize the Customs Administration and to benefit all stakeholders involved in foreign trade in Bolivia, with the ultimate goal of reducing clearance times for foreign trade operations.

For more information, please, contact capacity.building@wcoomd.org.
From 14 to 18 August 2023, within the framework of the SECO-WCO Global Trade Facilitation Programme (GTFP), the Royal Malaysian Customs Department (RMCD) hosted a delegation from the State Customs Committee (SCC) of the Republic of Uzbekistan, in Putrajaya, Malaysia, for a Study Visit in the area of Single Window (SW) development and implementation.

During the study visit, participants observed the electronic Customs-related transactions and duty payments and electronic document transfer between members of its trading community made up of manufacturers, importers and exporters, forwarders, shipping agents, banks, permit issuing agencies, and Customs, offering tangible insights into the successful integration of systems.

The SCC delegation visited the RMCD Headquarters, the operator of Malaysias National Single Window (NSW) for Trade Facilitation, the Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA Cargo) and the Pos Malaysia International Hub to have an inclusive understanding of the business processes, organizational dynamics, historical development phases of the NSW and stakeholder coordination pivotal to successful system implementation at an administrative and operational level. Of particular interest was the interconnectivity of the Single Window with private sector stakeholders such as brokers, couriers, carriers, and warehouse operators.

Furthermore, at the RMCD Selangor Office, the participants were presented with the working method and the coordination of various units in the implementation of risk management on a practical basis in processing import and export transactions and observed how the process is implemented as aligned with the SW.

The wide-ranging experience shared by the RMCD and the valuable lessons learnt will be instrumental for the SCC in implementing on the ground of the SW, which is in the process of continuous development, corresponding business process re-engineering, collaboration with the stakeholders to enable interconnectivity in facilitating coordination mechanisms for interagency cooperation.

The WCO and the Swiss State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO) extend heartfelt appreciation to the Royal Malaysian Customs Department for their unwavering support and collaboration in making this knowledge-sharing endeavour a resounding success.

For more information, please contact capacity.building@wcoomd.org.
From 20 to 23 August 2023, following several virtual Training of Trainers workshops on the topic of integrity culture and in relation to the analysis of the CIPS results, the WCO Anti-Corruption & Integrity Promotion (A-CIP) Programme supported Palestinian Customs officials in delivering the first integrity culture workshop focusing on the training of Customs and VAT staff in Palestine.

Following scoping activities conducted with Palestine in 2020, an A-CIP project plan was developed, identifying priorities on which the WCO's technical assistance and capacity building (TACB) support under the Programme would focus. This in-country mission contributed to the specific priority, Internal affairs function reinforced. The training was the result of a corruption-prevention and integrity-promotion measure adopted within the internal control functions and is directly related to the WCO Revised Arusha Declaration key factor, Audit & Investigation.

This TACB activity, which is part of the WCO A-CIP Culture of Integrity Programme curriculum, enabled 20 participants to identify and take ownership of tools and good practices to support organisational change within their administration, create a working environment that fosters integrity-based professional behaviours and encourage each customs official to position themselves as a fully committed A-CIP actor.

Customs & VAT officials and customs police holding key positions attended the workshop. The highlights of the workshop were, in particular, the analysis of the results of the Palestinian Customs Integrity Perception Survey, the exchange of experiences, and the detailed analysis of the key factors of the revised Arusha Declaration and the response that can be taken at institutional, individual or managerial level to fight against corruption. Collaborative action between the different internal control units is essential in the fight against corruption. An update on corruption offences was provided by the Head of the Legal Unit of the Palestinian Anti-corruption Commission, who participated in one of the sessions.

Concluding the workshop, participants committed themselves to take individual actions to spread the culture of integrity and create a working environment conducive to integrity behaviour. In addition to the training workshop, the Bethlehem Customs & VAT office was visited to raise awareness of the A-CIP Programme and to disseminate the work on integrity culture being carried out by Palestinian Customs.

The WCO A-CIP Programme supports more than 20 WCO Member administrations, with funding from Norad and Canada. For more information, please contact capacity.building@wcoomd.org.
Kuwait's Public Authority for Housing Welfare (PAHW) has awarded contracts worth KD345 million ($1.1 billion) to Chinese construction and engineering company Gezhouba Group for the construction and maintenance of its South Saad Al Abdullah Housing Project, reported China Daily.

The project, which is located in Jahra Governorate, spans an area of approximately 6,400 hectares and consists of five residential areas with 24,508 houses, stated the report citing the authority.

PAHW picked up Gezhouba for the job after it emerged as the lowest bidder for the project among the 10 companies who had submitted their bids, it added.
BAGHDAD, Aug. 29 (Xinhua) -- Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia' al-Sudani extended on Tuesday condolences to French President Emmanuel Macron over the death of a French soldier, who was killed during a joint military operation between Iraqi and French forces against the Islamic State (IS) group in Iraq.

According to an official statement from al-Sudani's media office, al-Sudani received a phone call on Tuesday evening from Macron, during which they also discussed bilateral ties and ways to develop economic, cultural, and security relations, as well as the latest regional and international developments.

Moreover, they talked about the official visit of the French president to Baghdad in the near future, the statement added, without revealing the exact time of the visit.

According to French media reports, a French military instructor was killed in Iraq on Aug. 21, while assisting the Iraqi army in an operation against the IS. 
Allentown, PA (18103)

Today

Cloudy with bouts of showers and light rain, mainly during the morning through midday. Seasonably cool and drier later in the afternoon with perhaps a few breaks of sun. It will turn breezy as well..

Tonight

Becoming partly cloudy and colder overnight. Still breezy.
ADDIS ABABA, Aug. 29 (Xinhua) -- Clashes in Ethiopia's northern Amhara region have killed at least 183 people since July, a United Nations (UN) official said Tuesday.

Marta Hurtado, spokesperson for the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), said in a press statement that the UN has gathered information saying that at least 183 people have been killed in clashes in the troubled Amhara region since the beginning of last month.

The statement further said the global body has received reports saying more than 1,000 people have been arrested across Ethiopia since authorities imposed a state of emergency in the Amhara region earlier this month.

"Many of those detained were reported to be young people of ethnic Amhara origin suspected of being members of a local militia known as Fano," the OHCHR spokesperson said.

In recent months, deadly clashes between federal government-aligned security forces and Fano militants in the Amhara region have killed scores of people.

Earlier this month, the state-backed Ethiopia Human Rights Commission (EHRC) expressed concern over the human rights impact of the armed conflict on civilians in Ethiopia's Amhara region. The EHRC's call followed a deadly attack that reportedly claimed the lives of at least 26 people in the town of Finote Selam, 385 km north of Addis Ababa, the Ethiopian capital. 
READING, Pa. - The March on Washington For Jobs and Freedom took place 60 years ago, and now thousands are returning to D.C to honor it, including some from Berks County.

"The March is important. They're expecting about 75,000 people but after the March is more important. Hopefully our young people have a better understanding. It's not protest politics, said Wynton Butler, a historian with the Berks Chapter of the NAACP.

He hopes that those visiting and learning about the march's significance return home with something special.

"Ideas to show engagement and what comes after this. Do they charge people up and get them to go back to their communities and do the work that needs to be done, Butler said.

The I Have A Dream speech given by Martin Luther King Jr. on the Washington Mall still resonates today.

It's an opportunity to really educate kids and adults alike. Give them an opportunity to get caught up on what's going on, said Butler.

Butler says he hopes that the marking of the 60th anniversary educates and informs in an effort to keep moving the cause of those that gathered decades ago forward.

"There's no way you can say there hasn't been progress. There's definitely been progress. But I think the way our country is designed, it's a never-ending battle.Wwe are always gonna have to go back and fix it on either side and push things forward, Butler said.
WASHINGTON, D.C. - A Berks County man is facing federal charges related to actions allegedly committed during the breach of the U.S. Capitol on January 6, 2021.

52-year-old James Wayne Maryanski of Boyertown is charged with civil disorder and assaulting, resisting or impeding certain officers using a deadly or dangerous weapon.

Maryanski was arrested Friday and was scheduled to make his initial court appearance Monday in the Eastern District of Pennsylvania.

Federal investigators say Maryanski was part of the crowd of rioters who breached the police barricades at the Peace Circle Monument. The rioters quickly outnumbered and overwhelmed the manned police barriers and flooded the Lower West Plaza.

Authorities say police lines later began to fall back as the rioters continued to progress forward.

Before officers could retreat, Maryanski allegedly approached the police line holding a large canister of chemical irritant and sprayed it directly at the officers faces.

Maryanski later entered the Capitol building through a shattered window but eventually left the Capitol grounds, investigators say.

After January 6, authorities say he posted on Facebook about his participation in the Capitol riot.

In one of his comments, he allegedly stated that Jan. 6, 2021 was a dry run.
BERKS COUNTY, Pa. - Exeter Township Police Lieutenant Sean Fullerton said there are several positions open with the department, which currently has 36 members.

"Right now, we have full platoons and we're almost fully staffed. We've had a few retirements and other few officers that are out, so we're looking to get those applicants in here," explained Lieutenant Fullerton.

Right now, he said it is early in the application process and that a list needs to be established. Once the budget gets approved, there will be a better outlook on how many people will be hired.

He has used a video to help with recruitment purposes. Lieutenant Fullerton tells 69 News there has been a drop in applications at police departments nationally.

"I don't want to say we've been immune to it, but we've been able to maintain a high number of applicants coming in here," said Lieutenant Fullerton.

Other police departments in Berks County also have job listings. Exeter Township is putting people through the police academy, and others require applicants already complete it.

Applicants for Bern and Exeter townships must be 21 or older.

Bern Township Police Chief Brett Forry said the department recently advertised open positions.

"We have a pool of applicants now to move on to the oral interview process and stage that we have here at the township," said Chief Forry.

Chief Forry tells 69 News the department is looking to add 1-2 officers as the result of recent promotions in the department. He said some departments in the country are offering signing bonuses.

"We're choosing to look at that as trying to attract good, successful candidates into the policing world," said Chief Forry.
It's yet another step in Gov. Josh Shapiro's efforts to get more people to apply for state jobs.

"To waive the college credit requirement for people that want to be state troopers effective immediately," Shapiro said.

The governor says it's all about trying to get more applicants for all state jobs. This follows an initiative where Shapiro announced 92% of state jobs will not require any college education.

One local employment expert says this trend predates the pandemic.

"That is very consistent with the trends we are seeing in industry, where companies are really looking and really scrutinizing job descriptions to determine whether a degree is truly needed in order for someone to be successful in a job, said Tom Hubric, president of Hubric Resources.

One business consultant says it's a bad idea to remove the college requirement for state police and for other career paths as well.

"Not having that background and education on how to deal with certain things and handle certain things is just it's hard to think that this a good thing, said Chuck Holder, a business strategist.

"The commonwealth's hiring practices must reflect our reality today, and this changes reflects that reality," Shapiro said.

It's a reality that colleges and universities may have to start adjusting, too."

"Certainly as more and more employers are not requiring college degrees, that has to have a negative impact and I think they're really gonna have to pivot," Hubric said.

"Alvernia is doing a great job of better preparing their students for the workforce where they're blending the classroom education and the on-site education," Holder said.

With this latest change for a very specialized line of work, what industry could be next?

This actually reflects on many different industries," Hubric said.
ALLENTOWN, Pa. - The dream that defined a generation, 60 years later. It was on this day, back in 1963, that thousands flooded into Washington D.C. for a civil rights march, where

Martin Luther King Jr. would deliver his now iconic "I have a dream" speech.

Words that still resonate today amid a disturbing rise in racially motivated violence.

Allentowns Clyde Bosket, who the first and only State Master Barber in the Lehigh Valley, heard the speech first hand.

The soon to be 94 year old says that day helped shape the rest of his life.

With a rise in hate crimes, a new generation says the historic speech is still very much needed today.

Greyhound bus loaded with the NAACP. He described of those who went down.

The then 33 year old Clyde Bosket was on the bus that arrived a little late to Washington DC, August 28th 1963.

The march, led by several civil rights groups, as a call to action for jobs and to end segregation.

On Bosket's arrival the agenda had already started but they made it in time to hear Martin Luther King Jr..

It brought a lot of us young men out of the darkness and into the marvelous light, by him speaking his dream. He said.

Progress is not linear.

Progress is something that is an ever evolving and ever expanding practice. Said Jay Williams.

Why Dr. King's speech is still relevant today for the 25 year old citizen science researcher for Promise Neighborhoods of the Lehigh Valley.

Its' always important to be grateful about where we are but to not get stuck in stagnation because stagnation is the beginning of decline., she said.

The speech's anniversary comes at time when the latest statistics from the Department of Justice show hate crimes increased nearly 12% nationally.

Just this past weekend, in a racially motivated attack, a white gunman in Jacksonville Florida shot and killed 3 people, all African American.

A sobering reminder how far our society still needs to go.

But for Bosket, who battled racism as the first and only State Master Barber in the Lehigh Valley,

The guidance of Dr. King and that speech carried him through tough times.

I still carry that dream on today. He said.
UPPER MOUNT BETHEL TWP., Pa.  By a 3-2 vote Monday night, the Upper Mount Bethel Township Board of Supervisors voted to continue a conditional use hearing for developer Lou Pektor's large commercial development known as River Pointe Logistics.

RPL's proposed development calls for a 12-building industrial park to be constructed on nearly 800 acres of land near the eastern edge of Upper Mount Bethel Township, Northampton County. Included in this proposal is the consolidation of Lots No. 4 and 5 from three industrial buildings into a single, 1.5 million-square-foot building at 2785 N. Delaware Dr. (Route 611)  for which the developer must obtain a conditional use approval from the township.

Monday's hearing was a continuation from the Aug. 14 hearing during which many residents expressed strong opposition to the development, citing their concerns about traffic, general life impacts and the fact that the developer could not identify a specific user for the massive building.

Upper Mount Bethel Township resident Frances Visicaro was granted legal "party status" at the Aug. 14 hearing, and she presented several concerns about the developer's proposal on Monday.

The sheer size of the proposed building, fire safety regulations and adverse health impacts were among Visicaro's concerns about the project. She also argued that because the developer had not identified a specific use for the facility, conditional use approval should not be granted.

"Without the specific use identification, the township is unable to determine [compliance] with Section 4.3 of the zoning ordinance, nor determine if the use would jeopardize public safety, health and welfare," Visicaro said.

RPL attorney Marc Kaplan objected to several of Visicaro's statements, arguing that such specifics are not determined until later in the land development process.

Sheryl Mims  the other township resident granted party status two weeks ago  was also given the opportunityto present more evidence after the supervisors unanimously approved a motion allowing her to do so.

In her testimony, Mims spoke about the RPL proposal's effect on property values in the surrounding area. Several properties that sold after the proposed development was announced closed at up to nearly $100,000 less than their "estimated value" on Zillow.com, Mims said.

"Because of my proximity to River Pointe Logistics Center, the value of my home has declined," Mims said. "If I choose to move to find the same atmosphere that I originally found here, I would lose money because I would not be able to buy a similar property with the proceeds from the sale of my property here on Potomac Street."

Cross-examining Mims, Kaplan noted that some of the real estate transactions she cited were from 2021. Mims also could not determine how Zillow's estimated property values were measured, Kaplan said.

Later, several supervisors referenced a July 15 letter from township engineer Justin Coyle, which expressed concerns about the viability of consolidating multiple lots into a single 1.5 million-square-foot building at the proposed site.

Supervisor David Friedman noted the proposed building would be "189% bigger" than the 800,000 square feet permitted by a township text amendment.

"This is not a consolidation hearing," Friedman said. "This is a conditional use hearing."

Supervisor John Bermingham verbally sparred with Kaplan again, with the latter accusing Bermingham and Friedman of using Coyle's concerns as a way to "kick the can down the road."

Bermingham responded that he had an obligation to listen to the township's engineer and was not against development, but wants to see RPL "do things the right way."

After consulting with township solicitor Ron Karasek, Friedman introduced a motion to continue the hearing until Sept. 11  which was later moved to Sept. 25. He was joined by Bermingham and Supervisor David Due, who also said he wanted time to hear more about "conditions" for the project proposed by Coyle.

Believing they had the necessary information to advance the project, Chairman Martin Pinter and Vice Chairman Robert Teel voted against continuing the hearing.

The hearing will continue at 7 p.m. on Monday, Sept. 25, at the Mount Bethel Fire Co.
Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus (L), director general of the World Health Organization (WHO), and Mokgweetsi Masisi, Botswanan president, pose for a photo after signing the designation of the Botswana National Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) Reference Laboratory's classification as a WHO Collaborating Center of Excellence in honor of the laboratory's expertise in HIV diagnosis in Gaborone, Botswana, on Aug. 28, 2023. Botswanan President Mokgweetsi Masisi on Monday urged the World Health Organization (WHO) to pay attention to and adjust its assistance to the requirements of countries facing a twin burden of infectious and non-communicable diseases. WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said Botswana has already proven considerable success in the HIV response and serves as an example for many other nations.(Photo by Tshekiso Tebalo/Xinhua)

GABORONE, Aug. 29 (Xinhua) -- Botswanan President Mokgweetsi Masisi on Monday urged the World Health Organization (WHO) to pay attention to and adjust its assistance to the requirements of countries facing a twin burden of infectious and non-communicable diseases.

Masisi said at the official opening of the 73rd session of the WHO Regional Committee for Africa in Gaborone, the capital of Botswana, that the biggest health problem Botswana is now facing is the transition from communicable diseases to non-communicable diseases.

"We are locked in an epidemiological transition from communicable diseases to an increasing non-communicable disease burden. These include heart diseases that have increased by 31 percent, stroke by 19 percent, and diabetes by 40 percent," said Masisi.

Masisi also noted that the new digital era provides the potential to increase leverage on improving people's health and well-being. "Digital technology has the potential to enhance health outcomes by improving medical diagnosis, data-based treatment decisions, digital therapeutics, clinical trials, self-management of care, and person-centered care," he said.

In addition, he urged developed countries to connect their assistance with regional and national priorities, such as removing conditions on voluntary contributions.

During the session, Botswana and the WHO jointly announced the Botswana National Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) Reference Laboratory's classification as a WHO Collaborating Center of Excellence in honor of the laboratory's expertise in HIV diagnosis.

WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said Botswana has already proven considerable success in the HIV response and serves as an example for many other nations.

"It was certified by the WHO for reaching the silver tier on the path to eliminating mother-to-child transmission of HIV in 2021, and in 2022, it reached the 95-95-95 targets for testing, treatment, and viral suppression, one of only five countries to do so," Ghebreyesus said. 

Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, director general of the World Health Organization (WHO), speaks during the announcement of the Botswana National Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) Reference Laboratory's classification as a WHO Collaborating Center of Excellence in honor of the laboratory's expertise in HIV diagnosis, in Gaborone, Botswana, on Aug. 28, 2023. Botswanan President Mokgweetsi Masisi on Monday urged the World Health Organization (WHO) to pay attention to and adjust its assistance to the requirements of countries facing a twin burden of infectious and non-communicable diseases. WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said Botswana has already proven considerable success in the HIV response and serves as an example for many other nations.(Photo by Tshekiso Tebalo/Xinhua)
BETHLEHEM TWP., Pa.  The Bethlehem Township Planning Commission recommended preliminary/final plan and conditional use approval for a major new expansion of St. Luke's University Health Network's Anderson Campus.

The proposal, entitled Campus Wing 3, includes a five-floor, 307,979-square-foot hospital expansion. It features 146 beds, a 32,417-square-foot sterile processing facility and additional parking. A helipad will be relocated to the roof. Planners also approved eight waivers associated with the project. Each wing will have its own lobbies and entrances, St. Luke's officials noted Monday night.

Planner Barry Roth requested the hospital move the heliport to a different location, alleging the flightpaths were flying over neighborhoods and creating disturbances by flying low. St. Luke's officials disagreed with Roth's assessments, citing records, but acknowledged and agreed to look at their flight paths.

Residential development

In other news, planners recommended preliminary/final plan approval for an eight-home development at 1932 Farmersville Road. In spite of the address, the four twin homes would be constructed on 2.7 acres on the southside of Vintage Drive, just east of Farmersville.

The proposed development is about 200 yards south of the two-part intersection of Farmersville Road and Freemansburg Avenue. Planners also approved various waivers for the project.

The owner of 1932 Farmersville Road is Monocacy General Contracting, and the plans for the Vintage Drive location were prepared by Keystone Consulting Engineers.

Planners expressed concerns about stormwater management and project density.
E. ROCKHILL TWP., Pa. - On the day many in our area went back to school, the Pennridge School District in Bucks County held another contentious school board meeting over proposed curriculum.

Last June the school board postponed the decision about whether or not to start this school year with a curriculum designed by the third-party consultant.

A decision was being debated late Monday night inside the Pennridge School District building in East Rockhill Township.

"For the love of goodness, please fire Mr. Adams like this community has been asking for months," said one community member during the meeting.

The discussion was about Vermilion.

"Can I just say that you've heard over months and months and it's a complete failure of leadership that you have not listened to logical concerns," continued another concerned attendee.

Vermilion is a third-party contractor hired by the school board to consult on the school's curriculum. It's less than a year old and the founder, Jordan Adams, has ties to the far right.

Many fear it will white-wash students' education.

"Why do we have a non-qualified person to write curriculum when we have highly qualified and knowledgeable people on our staff," said another person.

As we've seen multiple times before, parents, students, teachers and more came to not only oppose, but opt out of the curriculum.

"It contains errors which you should know if you would listen to our social studies teachers," said another concerned attendee.

With a rally before the meeting, many said teachers fear learning a brand-new curriculum with school already in session.

"It's 3,000 pages and the teachers just got it last week and school started today," another person continued.

Most people we saw spoke out against Vermilion with a small handful speaking for it.

"The curriculum is being portrayed as racist, filled with false information and white nationalism, because it has a positive pro-American storyline," said one person. "The opposition to it is based on a political stance based on a belief that our country is not good."

"The teachers are an interest group and I think that's how afraid they are to have this curriculum, because for so long they've been political activists. Pushing it toward kids," continued another.

Another concern brought up at this meeting was losing staff over this issue.

The meeting was still active as of this report at 10 p.m. Monday.
ROCKHILL TWP., Pa. - In another loud, contentious and long school board meeting, the Pennridge School Board voted 5-4 to adopt a new curriculum that's been at the center of several heated debates since last year.

All curriculum changes recommended by Jordan Adams and his third-party consulting firm, Vermilion, are set to be implemented, effective immediately, except for those made for first through fifth-grade social studies. Those teachers will have one year to prepare before implementing those changes the following school year.

"You're too removed to be making these backwards judgments and pushing the district and the curriculum back hundreds of years. Shame on you," said Leah Foster Rash, a parent in the district, during the hours-long meeting.

The board also approved implementing a new government, civics, and economics course for ninth graders. That measure will be reviewed again on Sept. 18.

"We need to be teaching facts and encouraging students to formulate their own opinions," said board member Megan Banis-Clemens, who voted in favor of the measures.

Most commenters were parents who said they didn't want to be there that night but were forced by their beliefs to do so.

"Not a single parent should be here," said resident Dan Shapiro. "We should be home with our kids, hearing about their first day of school."

Kevin Foster, a Pennridge School District father of three, agreed.

"Instead, I'm here with the most chaotic board in Pennridge history," he said.

Shapiro and Foster joined the ranks of many parents, educators and community members who were driven to appear at the meeting to comment on proposed changes to the school district's history and social studies curriculum.

"Can I just say that you've heard over months and months and it's a complete failure of leadership that you have not listened to logical concerns?" another resident at the podium asked.

The majority spoke out against Vermilion, a third party hired to review Pennridge's curriculum, with a small handful speaking in support of the measure.

"Can't we all agree that history is fundamental and the United States is the greatest country in the world?" said resident Matt Carbonaro.

"The Hillsdale curriculum is being portrayed as racist, filled with false information and white nationalism, because it has a positive, pro-American storyline," one man said at the podium. "The opposition to it is based on a political stance based on a belief that our country is not good."

Yet more commented that adopting a new curriculum on the first day of school was unfair to teachers who would have to implement it quickly.

"It's 3,000 pages and the teachers just got it last week and school started today," Cheryl Castro, a mom with a junior in the school district, told 69 News at a rally before the meeting.

Many comments were met with jeers or cheers from the lively audience in attendance.

Laura Gozzard said teachers needed more time to implement new lessons into their lesson plans. She compared introducing completely new material without adequate preparation time to "building the plane while flying it."

In another, slightly less contentious vote, the board voted to adopt seventh-grade and eighth-grade reading courses on Monday.

Another concern brought up at the meeting was losing staff over this issue. Last year many were disappointed to learn the school's superintendent resigned. Monday's agenda also included approving a new superintendent.

Vermilion is a third-party contractor hired by the school board less than a year ago to consult on the school's curriculum. Vermilion's founder, Jordan Adams, has ties to Hillsdale College, which is a private, conservative Christian college. Many fear the school's contract with the company will result in students learning a whitewashed version of history.

"Why do we have a non-qualified person to write curriculum when we have highly qualified and knowledgeable people on our staff," asked another taking to the podium in the meeting.

Vermilion Education founder Jordan Adams appeared via Zoom during a lengthy school board committee meeting in June.

According to Adams, the district would decide what assistance Vermilion would provide and whether to take their recommendations.

During his June presentation, Adams analyzed fiction and nonfiction criteria for seventh and eighth grade students. The presentation provided opportunities to strengthen Pennridge's curriculum in five ways.

One way is by introducing additional works of fiction, poetry and nonfiction for students to read, analyze, discuss and write about.

A second opportunity Adams cited was to "ensure that texts and topics will not disproportionately affect those who have experienced trauma or otherwise lead to disruptive behavior on the part of students."

The third chance to improve Pennridge's curriculum was predicated on establishing a district policy on whether mental health education and resources constitute English language arts lessons or non-curricular presentations.

He also recommended the district ensure that non-fiction articles include questions to help students identify the writer's perspective. By doing this, Adams noted, it would shield teachers from being unfairly accused of bias.

"The concern is that by not having additional context...I think there's a risk in opening teachers up to assertions or claims that they are trying to push a certain viewpoint or policy when in reality they are just teaching the non-fiction work," he said previously.

The final improvement opportunity would be ensuring that all texts are free of sexualized content that could be "best left to the home and to parent discretion." Adams cited two books, read excerpts as examples and later provided lists of recommended books, including novels and short stories.

At that meetings' end, board member Joan Cullen called for a vote to terminate the contract with Vermilion, citing a breach of contract.

"Not honest, not transparent. This is not the most transparent person weve worked with," said Cullen. That vote was defeated 5-4.

Other business

In other news, the board approved several personnel hires within the school district.

The board voted unanimously to hire Angelo Berrios as superintendent. He was the principal at Abington Senior High School in Montgomery County since 2013.

Motion to approve Timothy Keddie as high school principal, effective date to be determined, at a salary of $163,711.

Keddie said he was truly honored to become principal of Pennridge High School.

I look forward to working with fantastic staff administrators and, most importantly, the students Keddie said.

Motion to approve Hilary Czaplicki as high school house principal, effective Aug. 28, 2023, at a salary of $144,815.

"Thank you again for this opportunity. When 2,400 of my best friends walked in (the school) this morning, I knew while I was here," said Czaplicki.

Maria Pulli was approved as Deibler Elementary School principal, effective date to be determined, at a salary of $154,453.

The board also approved a transfer of Howard Vogel from math supervisor to Bedminster Elementary School principal, effective Monday, at a salary of $154,453.

Cullen opposed this appointment because Vogel was needed as a math supervisor.

"The situation we have now is not good because too few people are trying to do the work of many people. Now were going to add another supervisor hole," she said.

Already approved by the board, Steve Brown was recognized as Central Middle School assistant principal. "I was Bucks County born and raised, and Im happy to be back home," said Brown.
VIENTIANE, Aug. 29 (Xinhua) -- Laos is making comprehensive preparations to host the 27th ASEAN Tourism Ministers' Meeting and the 42nd ASEAN Tourism Forum (ATF) in Lao capital Vientiane from Jan. 22 to Jan. 27 in 2024.

A Laopattana report on Tuesday quoted the Director General of the Tourism Marketing Department under the Lao Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism, Khom Douangchantha, as saying the ministry has established a 13-member preparatory committee, which will be responsible for a host of duties, including venue selection and preparing invitation cards.

The committee is now coordinating with the secretariat of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) to review the list of tourism ministers and other invitees, such as ASEAN plus three tourism ministers, delegates from ASEAN-India, ASEAN-Russia, and other international organizations.

Alongside, the committee is working on a tourism program for delegates to enjoy during their time in the Lao capital Vientiane. The committee is also working with travel companies to create itineraries for delegates so that they can travel to other provinces in Laos as well.

Khom said that the ASEAN Tourism Ministers' Meeting and the ATF are important events that will promote tourism in Laos and the ASEAN region. The Lao government is committed to making the event memorable and successful for all participants.

Meanwhile, preparations are also in full swing for Visit Laos Year 2024, in which the country is projected to welcome more than 2.7 million tourists to stimulate post-pandemic economic growth. 
YANGON, Aug. 29 (Xinhua) -- Myanmar authorities have seized 800,000 stimulant tablets in Myanmar's eastern Shan State, a statement from the Central Committee for Drug Abuse Control (CCDAC) said on Tuesday.

Acting on a tipoff, anti-narcotics police searched a vehicle in Loilem town in Shan State on Saturday and confiscated the 800,000 stimulant tablets, the CCDAC said.

Five suspects were arrested for the case, it added.

The suspects were charged with drug trafficking under the Southeast Asian country's Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Law, and further investigations were underway. 
Green thinking is needed to save beaches

Coastlines need to be recognised as dynamic, shifting environments rather than as environments that need to be controlled and managed.

Coastlines  the interface between land and sea  lie at the frontline in the battle against climate change impacts.

Globally, almost 1 billion people now live within 10km of a coastline and the same number live in areas less than 10 metres above sea level. These populations face some of the worlds biggest climate hazards, such as coastal floods from rising sea levels and the effects of hurricanes and tropical storms, which are becoming more frequent and deadly. If there is a 2 metre increase in sea levels by 2100, this may lead to the forced migration of between 72 million and 187 million people.

However, coastlines vary substantially in their physical properties, and are found across all latitudes, environments and with a range of ecosystems and types of human activity. This means that coastline responses to climate change will vary from one place to another.

Several studies have identified sandy coastlines as particularly vulnerable to climate change, because they are made up of loose sand grains that are easily eroded by waves. A survey in 2018 showed that 24% of sandy coasts globally were already experiencing persistent net erosion because of climate change, and this was projected to get even worse in the future.

This is of concern because sandy coasts are particularly important for biodiversity, carbon storage, agriculture and tourism.

In a recent study of South African coastlines I examined the properties that contribute to their physical and biological resilience. Coastal landforms (features like estuaries, barrier islands, beaches and sand dunes) can buffer the effects of climate change and provide ecosystem and environmental services. Viewing coastal landforms as green infrastructure is a way to work with nature to manage the impacts of climate change.

Managing coastlines to boost resilience

Not all sandy coastlines respond in the same ways to climate, in part because they are made up of different landforms. Research shows that these landforms respond in different ways to waves, tides, sea-level change and sediment supply.

Their varied behaviours mean that a range of management responses are required to limit the impacts of climate change on these landforms, and this is the challenge facing all coasts globally in the 21st century.

However, there are some problems. Many management approaches used in the past are inappropriate or have actually made the situation worse. A classic example is where a sea wall or revetment is built along an eroding sandy coastline. This is usually a hard, high, straight structure, often built of concrete and designed to stabilise the coastline and keep the sea out. These structures often focus rather than disperse incoming wave energy, leading to increased beach erosion and undercutting of the sea wall, and requiring further and bigger structures to be built as the coast erodes even faster. Many such engineering structures designed to protect coasts are expensive, require continuous maintenance, and may have similar unintended consequences. Thus, these structures often make coastal problems worse, not better.

Instead, different approaches are needed. Working with  and not against  the natural processes and landforms that already exist along sandy coastlines may be a more effective and cheaper option. This is where natural beaches or sand dunes may protect the land against coastal erosion and be maintained by natural ecological and sedimentary processes.

In my study, I have shown how the natural landforms of different coastal environments can serve as green infrastructure: natural features that perform the same function as hard engineering structures in coastal protection. Natural beaches or sand dunes can stabilise the land surface and reduce erosion rates, provide ecosystem services and maintain biodiversity, store organic carbon, modify microclimate, and reduce the impacts of coastal hazards on local communities.

However, this approach has not been commonly used along African coasts, despite its environmental benefits.

Using coastal landforms as green infrastructure can build coastal resilience to climate change. This is a win-win situation for both coastal landforms and populations.

Green infrastructure

Green infrastructure is part of wider nature-based solutions to addressing environmental issues and climate change impacts. However, a number of developments are needed to make the use of green infrastructure a wider practice, but local authorities, planners and managers.

Coastlines need to be recognised as naturally dynamic, shifting environments rather than as environments that need to be controlled and managed. The multiple and varied benefits that coastlines give to the environment, ecosystems and people must be recognised, including how they relate to one another.

Coastlines therefore need to be considered as integrated and dynamic systems, not simply as the boundaries between land and sea.

And finally, not all coastlines are the same  sandy and rocky coastlines work in different ways, as do coral reef, mangrove or glaciated coasts. This means that each coastline has different elements that contribute to their overall resilience or vulnerability to climate change impacts.

Jasper Knight, Professor of Physical Geography, University of the Witwatersrand. This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.
The heart of the work, a woman who heals

Dr Mulai Slave says the trailblaizing women around her made it possible to imagine working as a specialist in anaesthesiology.

I dont see the patient as a diagnosis or a disease; the diabetic foot in bed 10, the uncontrolled epileptic in bed 12 etc. I see them as a mother, a child, an uncle or aunt; I see a person who is desperately loved by their family, says Dr Mulai Slave (MMed 2021).

To Dr Slave, whose own family is central to every stage and significant moment in her life, the analogy of imagining them as someones family is her default humanising approach. She and her brother were raised by their single mother who would buy a 2-litre bottle of Fanta and a fresh loaf of bread that they would share as a family after every payday. She says she remembers how these moments brought her happiness, just the three of us, playing Lucky Dube cassettes on the radio and dancing and drinking that tasty Fanta was pure joy, she recalls.

As a young girl, music fascinated her. While watching a programme about Shaka Zulu with her father one day, she asked him what made a certain deep melodious sound she heard. He replied that it was a cello. From that day, she was captured by the instrument and wanted to learn how to play it. She adds Growing up in Polokwane  then Pietersburg then, in the days before the internet, I did not know anyone who could teach me, but as soon as I graduated from medical school, I found a cello teacher and the rest is history. She says that she might have pursued this passion professionally. However, sometimes a single event in ones life can redefine their lifelong purpose.

Life-changing event

At age 11, Dr Slave lost her father after a tragic car accident that stripped off the skin on his forehead which left his frontal bone exposed and dry. The plastic surgeons then decided to drill burr holes into the bone to try to stimulate bleeding and granulation over the site, allowing them to graft skin over it, she explained. However, things took a drastic decline  subsequently leading to his demise.

This, she says, was the profound turning point in her life, adding I knew that the doctors had done their best, but growing up without a father was very difficult for me and I realised the impact that medical decisions have on patients and their families at large. Her decision to pursue medicine was made to help people not to go through life without their loved ones. But targets come at a cost.

When faced with a challenging situation, she says her approach is to Do it scared. She says that she specialises in anaesthesia because the intervention of acute medicine can change a situation. She adds that although it is very uncommon to lose patients in the theatre, when it does happen, she remembers almost every patient that she loses. This is the worst aspect of humanity that she cant shake off but says going for therapy and counselling routinely helps her manage her disposition to these situations. I spend weeks thinking over what could have been done differently, to bring out a different outcome, she says.

Human-touch approach

The patients that Dr Slave has treated into recovery live in the testimony to her human-touch approach. One such patient affectionately wrote to the Wits saying that being treated by a whizz kid like Dr Slave. He said, Before she put me out she said I will see you on the other side. We still need you in this country. He added that I will never forget the respect, love and professionalism she showed throughout.

Dr Slave says that she sees being invested in her patients as a strength rather than a weakness because a good attitude can improve patients' outcomes. This is a quality that she always tries to impart to her trainee doctors, stressing that the first step to giving kinder care is to call patients by their names. Speak to them directly, listen to them, examine them, and treat them the way you would like to be treated if you were in their position she teaches.

Influential pioneers

She, herself, has learnt a great deal in her profession through the guidance and teachings of other physicians  particularly women. She describes her mentor and cardiothoracic anaesthesiologist, Associate professor Palesa Motshabi-Chakane (PhD 2019), as a brilliant woman. Apart from being the first black woman in South Africa to hold a PhD in anaesthesiology, Slave says Professor Motshabi-Chakane has taught her the power of not taking no for an answer.

Another woman that she looks up to professionally, is also a fellow Witsie and former schoolmate, Professor Salome Maswime (MMed 2014, PhD 2017). To see her obtain her PhD in obstetrics and gynaecology, obtain a research fellowship at the prestigious Harvard Medical School and Massachusetts General Hospital, among other accolades, then go on to be a world leader in global surgery, and obtain a full professorship at the tender age of 40, makes it possible for someone like me to imagine myself occupying such spaces, says Dr Slave.

As a student, anaesthesiology captivated her because she found the slow-paced management approach of internal medicine frustrating. She says that the ability to manipulate physiology, using pharmacology in real time was enchanting to her, she did not want to wait six weeks to see if the drug was working! Today, as a specialist and PhD candidate in this field, she says she appreciates that anaesthesiology enables her to still practice as a generalist. She adds that anaesthesiology encompasses the whole of clinical medicine, almost every type of patient will require an anaesthetic, from neonates to geriatrics, to obstetric patients, even psychiatric patients.

With all said about the science of medicine, Dr Slave says that without fail, she learns daily how truly precious and fragile life is. This is the approach that she carries in her own life every day which she says informs her deliberate presence and actions in the lives of her loved ones. She describes her family as her home.

She says that her mother, Dr Mungandi Monde Monica Kazeni, whom she calls Professor Mommy has single-handedly molded her into the woman she is today. She challenged me to reach her level or surpass her. I have one more qualification to go before I get to her level, she exclaims. As her mother and other fierce women in her life have set an impressionable example in her life, Dr Slave says that she also wants her daughters to be strong, intelligent, and kind women by her own example.
Interview with Dr Loyiso Maciko

Dr Loyiso Maciko joined the Wits School of Governance as a Tayarisha Centre postdoctoral fellow in June 2023

Dr Loyiso Maciko holds a Ph.D. in economics. His doctoral journey focused on financial inclusion in South Africa, with a particular emphasis on improving access and usage of financial services for those residing in rural areas. His research aimed to understand the challenges and barriers faced by underserved communities and develop strategies to promote inclusive financial practices.

Throughout his academic journey, he has delved deep into the intricacies of economic development and seeks to contribute to creating a more equitable and sustainable financial landscape in South Africa.

Zibusiso Manzini-Moyo interviewed Dr Maciko.

ZMM: Tell us about your area/field of interest.

LM: My area of interest revolves around leveraging technology to enhance public services for the citizens of this country. I am particularly focused on exploring innovative approaches to expanding financial services to rural areas, aiming to foster an inclusive economy that benefits all segments of the population. Moreover, I am dedicated to researching ways in which government can optimize its efficiency and effectiveness in service delivery, without neglecting or excluding those living in rural communities. By combining technology-driven solutions and a commitment to inclusivity, I seek to contribute to the betterment of public services and overall socioeconomic development in the country.

ZMM: Why did you choose the field of study?

LM: This field of interest holds significant importance as it offers a platform to address the persistent challenges faced by South Africa, including poverty and inequality, unemployment, inefficient service delivery, and the need for improved social services for vulnerable groups. Given my familiarity with these issues, I am driven by a strong desire to explore how economics can effectively respond to these social service challenges, ultimately using my education to contribute meaningfully to the betterment of communities. It is crucial to emphasize that addressing these complex challenges requires continuous collaboration among the South African government, civil society, and citizens, as we collectively seek sustainable solutions and work towards building a more equitable and efficient system of public services.

ZMM: What are some of the key discoveries you made in your work relating to societal challenges?

LM: Most social challenges have the potential to significantly hinder the attainment of key Sustainable Development Goals. Notably, SDG 1 on eradicating poverty, SDG 2 on achieving food security and ending hunger, SDG 3 on promoting health and well-being, SDG 5 on fostering gender equality and empowering women economically, SDG 8 on encouraging economic growth and job creation, and SDG 10 on reducing inequality can all be substantially improved through enhanced financial inclusion. To achieve this, it is crucial to establish a range of accessible institutions with improved service offerings that are closely connected to the people. A united effort involving government, non-governmental organizations, and the private sector is necessary to ensure the realization of this goal. The key focus of service delivery should be on being customer-oriented, meeting the needs and aspirations of the citizens, and promoting inclusivity to drive sustainable development.

ZMM: Is there any community-based work that you have done or are doing?

LM:

I am actively engaged in several initiatives, which include being:

A valued community of practice member involved in developing standards for the Council for Higher Education.

A dedicated facilitator of financial inclusion initiatives for Global Change Investors.

An advisor to Marketwise, contributing expertise in relevant areas such as financial inclusion.

A reviewer for the African Journal of Economic and Management Studies, helping maintain the journal's academic rigor and quality.

A social commentator on SA FM, offering insights and perspectives on pertinent social and economic issues.

These involvements reflect my commitment to making meaningful contributions in various domains, and I am passionate about using my expertise to foster positive change and impact within my community and beyond.

ZMM: What are your next goals?

LM:

My objective is to actively contribute to Tayarisha's growth by spearheading the development of the GovTech incubator.

I am dedicated to exploring innovative strategies that empower the Government to embrace digital technologies effectively, leveraging Geotechs potential to elevate digital governance, stimulate innovation, and foster robust collaboration among government entities, the private sector, and civic actors.

I aim to identify and implement methods for the government to deliver services more cohesive, citizen-centric, and responsive. This will involve the use of integrated web portals and facilitating seamless integration of services provided across different policy domains.

ZMM: Tell us about your experience thus far at Wits.

LM: I have settled in seamlessly and have become well-acquainted with Tayarisha's mandate. Building relationships has proven essential in establishing a supportive network and gaining a comprehensive understanding of Tayarisha's internal operations and dynamics.
4 Wall Street analysts have issued "buy," "hold," and "sell" ratings for New Gold in the last year. There are currently 1 sell rating, 2 hold ratings and 1 buy rating for the stock. The consensus among Wall Street analysts is that investors should "hold" NGD shares. A hold rating indicates that analysts believe investors should maintain any existing positions they have in NGD, but not buy additional shares or sell existing shares.

View NGD analyst ratings or view top-rated stocks.
Tilly's, Inc. operates as a specialty retailer of casual apparel, footwear, accessories, and hardgoods for young men and women, and boys and girls in the United States. Its apparel merchandise includes tops, outerwear, bottoms, swim, and dresses; and accessories merchandise comprises backpacks, hydration bottles, hats, sunglasses, small electronics and accessories, handbags, watches, jewelry, and others, as well as hardgoods consists of skateboards, longboards, and related equipment for skateboarding, snowboarding, and surfing. The company also provides third-party merchandise assortment across its various product categories. The company also sells its merchandise through its e-commerce website, tillys.com. Tilly's, Inc. was founded in 1982 and is headquartered in Irvine, California.
A.P. Mller - Mrsk A/S engages in the transport and logistics business worldwide. The company's Ocean segment is involved in the container shipping activities, including demurrage and detention, terminal handling, documentation and container services, and container storage, as well as transshipment hubs under Maersk Line, Safmarine, Sealand A Maersk Company, Hamburg Sud, and APM Terminal brand names; and sale of bunker oil. Its Logistics & Services segment offers integrated transportation, fulfilment, and management solutions, such as landside and air transportation, warehousing, supply chain management, cold chain logistics, and custom services. The company's Terminals segment engages in the gateway terminal activities under the APM Terminals brand. Its Towage & Maritime Services segment provides shore towage, salvage, and marine services under the Svitzer brand; manufactures and produces reefer containers; and marine services and integrated solutions to the energy sector with a fleet of anchor handling tug supply vessels and subsea support vessels. The company was founded in 1904 and is based in Copenhagen, Denmark.
NEW YORK, Aug. 29 (Xinhua) -- Tropical Storm Idalia strengthened to a Category 2 hurricane Tuesday afternoon as it was heading toward the Gulf Coast in the U.S. state of Florida, forcing an emergency declaration, mass evacuations and flight cancellations as it is expected to make landfall Wednesday morning.

The hurricane was forecast to develop into an "extremely dangerous major hurricane" and lash the Gulf Coast, according to the U.S. National Hurricane Center.

It could intensify at least to a Category 3 hurricane - classified as a major hurricane, bringing powerful winds and a potential storm surge of 10 to 15 feet.

Idalia put most of Florida's 21 million residents, along with those in the southern parts of Georgia and South Carolina, under hurricane, tropical storm and storm surge warnings and advisories.

EMERGENCY DECLARED, MASS EVACUATIONS

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis on Monday declared a state of emergency in 46 counties, a broad swath that stretches across the northern half of the state from the Gulf Coast to the Atlantic Coast. The number was expanded to 49 counties on Tuesday.

"Buckle up for this one," DeSantis, who suspended his presidential campaign due to the crisis, said at a news conference on Monday afternoon, urging Floridians to prepare for potentially dangerous conditions.

According to local officials, more than 5,500 National Guard members have been mobilized and over 580 rescue personnel have been stationed for storm response.

Evacuation notices have been issued in at least 22 counties in the state. Many of the notices were for people in low-lying and coastal area.

Pasco and Levy counties, located north of Tampa, both ordered mandatory evacuations for some residents. In Levy County, officials said residents of Cedar Key must be off the island by Tuesday evening because storm surges would make bridges impassable.

North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper also declared a state of emergency on Tuesday in response to the powerful hurricane.

FLIGHT CANCELLATIONS, SCHOOL CLOSURES

Hundreds of flights have been canceled as two of the region's largest airports - Tampa International Airport and St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport - suspended commercial operations on Tuesday. Amtrak has canceled at least 12 East Coast routes and is modifying others.

At least 42 school districts have announced closures over the next two days, along with 16 state colleges and seven universities.

MacDill Air Force Base, located by Tampa Bay, had prepared to evacuate several aircraft and began a mandatory evacuation Monday morning for personnel who lived in local counties, according to a statement from the U.S. Air Force.

During a phone call on Monday, U.S. President Joe Biden spoke with DeSantis and approved an emergency declaration for the state, the White House said in a news release.

"Very few people can survive being in the path of a major storm surge, and this storm will be deadly if we don't get out of harm's way and take it seriously," Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) chief Deanne Criswell told CNN.

She said that urban search and rescue teams are on standby from the FEMA, while the Army Corps of Engineers is set to support power generation missions. 
Akzo Nobel N.V. operates as a paints and coatings company in the Netherlands and internationally. The company operates through Decorative Paints and Performance Coatings segments. It provides decorative paints, including paints, lacquers, and varnishes; mixing machines, color concepts, and training courses for the building and renovation industry; and specialty coatings for metal, wood, and other building materials. The company offers its decorative paints under the Alba, Astral, Bruguer, Coral, Dulux, Flexa, Inca, Levis, Marshall, Nordsjo, Sadolin, Sikkens, and Vivechrome brands. It also offers performance coatings to protect and enhance ships, cars, aircraft, yachts, architectural components, consumer goods, and oil and gas facilities. The company was formerly known as Akzo NV and changed its name to Akzo Nobel N.V. in 1994. Akzo Nobel N.V. was founded in 1646 and is headquartered in Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
The Charles Schwab Corporation is a financial services company that offers a wide range of investment services, including brokerage, banking, and financial advisory services. Founded in 1971 and headquartered in Westlake, Texas, the company operates through two main segments: Investor Services and Advisor Services. The Investor Services segment offers individual investors retail brokerage and banking services, while the Advisor Services segment provides custodial, trading, and support services to independent investment advisors. In 2020, the company completed its acquisition of TD Ameritrade, further expanding its client base and offerings.

Charles Schwab Corporation's management team is led by Walt Bettinger, who has been the company's President and Chief Executive Officer since 2008. Mr. Bettinger joined the company in 1995 and has held various leadership roles, including Chief Operating Officer and Head of Schwab Institutional.

Over the past few years, Charles Schwab Corporation has experienced steady growth in its key financial metrics. It is reporting increased revenue and increased profit margin. Charles Schwab Corporation's valuation metrics are generally in line with industry peers. The company's price-to-earnings ratio is slightly lower than the industry average, and the company's price-to-book ratio is also somewhat lower than the industry average. Charles Schwab Corporation's stock has generally performed well over the past few years, with some fluctuations in response to broader market conditions and regulatory changes. The company's stock price has outperformed the S&P 500 for several years. The company has also experienced increases in trading volume in response to changes in market conditions and regulatory changes.

Charles Schwab Corporation operates in the financial services industry, which has experienced significant growth and transformation over the past few years. The industry has been impacted by a range of factors, including advances in technology, changing consumer preferences, and regulatory changes. Charles Schwab Corporation competes with other financial services firms, including traditional brokerage firms, online investment platforms, and banks.

Charles Schwab Corporation has a range of potential growth opportunities, including expanding its offerings to meet the evolving needs of its clients. The company has been investing in technology and digital platforms to improve its services and attract new clients. In addition, the company's acquisition of TD Ameritrade has provided new opportunities for growth and expansion. The company also focuses on expanding its international presence and exploring new markets.

Charles Schwab Corporation faces a range of potential risks and challenges, including changes in regulatory and political environments that may impact the company's operations and profitability. The financial services industry is subject to a wide range of regulations, and changes in these regulations could significantly impact the company's operations. In addition, the industry is subject to intense competition, which could affect the company's ability to attract and retain clients.

Another potential risk is the impact of market volatility on the company's operations. Charles Schwab Corporation generates a significant portion of its revenue from commissions and fees, which are impacted by changes in market conditions. In periods of market volatility, clients may reduce their trading activity, which could affect the company's revenue and profitability.

The company also faces risks related to data security and privacy. The company collects and stores sensitive financial and personal information on its clients. Any breach of this data could significantly impact the company's reputation and financial performance.

To address these risks and challenges, Charles Schwab Corporation is focused on maintaining a robust regulatory compliance program and investing in data security and privacy measures. The company is also focused on diversifying its revenue streams and expanding its offerings to meet the evolving needs of its clients.
Chewy, Inc. is a leading American online retailer specializing in pet food and other pet-related products. Founded in June 2011 by Ryan Cohen and Michael Day under "Mr. Chewy," the company quickly gained prominence in the pet care e-commerce industry. With its headquarters in Plantation, Florida, Chewy operates through its user-friendly e-commerce platform, catering to pet owners across the United States.

Chewy, Inc. started in 2011 as "Mr. Chewy," aiming to disrupt the traditional pet retail market by offering a wide range of pet products through a convenient online platform. The company's founders sought to leverage their e-commerce and retail expertise to provide pet owners with a seamless and personalized shopping experience.

The company's innovative approach quickly gained traction, and by 2017, Chewy had become a major player in the online pet retail space. In May 2017, Chewy made headlines when PetSmart acquired it for a groundbreaking $3.35 billion, making it the largest-ever acquisition of an e-commerce business at that time. Following the acquisition, Chewy continued to operate as an independent unit under the leadership of Ryan Cohen, the visionary co-founder and Chief Executive Officer.

Chewy's mission is to create a customer-centric platform that delivers happiness and joy to pets and their owners. The company is dedicated to providing pet owners with a comprehensive selection of high-quality pet products, personalized recommendations, and exceptional customer service. Chewy aims to enhance the bond between pet parents and their beloved companions by simplifying caring for pets through its convenient and reliable e-commerce platform.

The company's e-commerce platform provides pet owners the convenience of ordering products from the comfort of their homes, with the added benefit of subscription services for recurring shipments. Chewy's subscription model offers automatic delivery of pet essentials, ensuring pet owners never run out of their pet's favorite items.

Chewy's target market comprises pet owners across the United States who seek convenience, a vast selection of high-quality products, and exceptional customer service for their furry companions. The company caters to a diverse demographic of pet owners, including individuals, families, and pet enthusiasts. The company's e-commerce platform appeals to pet owners who prefer the ease and efficiency of online shopping. Chewy's user-friendly website and mobile app offer a seamless shopping experience, making it an attractive choice for first-time and experienced pet owners.

Chewy, Inc. is led by a seasoned and visionary management team, driving the company's strategic direction and success. As the Chief Executive Officer of Chewy Inc, Sumit Singh brings a wealth of experience in e-commerce and technology to the company. Singh's strategic leadership has been instrumental in Chewy's growth and market positioning. Mario J. Marte is the Chief Financial Officer, overseeing the company's financial operations and strategies. His financial management and planning expertise contributes to Chewy's financial growth and stability.

Chewy, Inc.'s financial data over the past few years reflects the company's impressive growth and financial performance. The company has achieved revenue growth, with a reported revenue increasing year over year. The net income also witnessed significant growth, with a yearly growth rate exceeding 150%. The company's net profit margin improved, reflecting a more than 150% year-over-year change. Chewy, Inc.'s valuation metrics indicate strong investor sentiment and optimism about the company's future growth prospects. Investors appear willing to pay a premium for Chewy's shares, driven by its consistent financial performance, expanding market presence, and customer loyalty.

Chewy, Inc. operates in the broader e-commerce and pet care industry, which has experienced significant growth in recent years. The pet care industry is fueled by increasing pet ownership and a growing trend of pet humanization, where pet owners seek premium products and services for their furry companions. As an e-commerce platform in the pet care industry, Chewy enjoys several competitive advantages. Its user-friendly interface, personalized customer experience, and subscription services have contributed to its strong market positioning. Chewy's vast selection of pet products and efficient logistics have also provided a competitive edge.

However, the industry remains highly competitive, with numerous established players vying for market share. Chewy faces competition from traditional brick-and-mortar pet stores, other e-commerce platforms, and specialty pet retailers. The company's ability to innovate, maintain customer loyalty, and expand its product offerings will be critical to sustaining its competitive advantage.

Chewy, Inc. has further identified several growth opportunities to solidify its pet care industry position. The growing trend of pet humanization and pet owners' willingness to invest in premium pet products present significant opportunities for Chewy to expand its product offerings and drive revenue growth. The company's expansion into the pharmacy segment with Chewy Pharmacy, providing prescription medications, offers additional growth potential in healthcare. Chewy can leverage its customer loyalty and personalized shopping experience to explore new markets and expand its customer base internationally.

Chewy, Inc. has demonstrated strong performance and growth potential. However, the company also faces risks and challenges that could affect its future outlook. Notably, the e-commerce and pet care industries are highly competitive, with numerous established players and newcomers vying for market share. Chewy must continuously innovate and invest in customer acquisition and retention strategies to maintain its market leadership.

Moreover, the company's stock price is susceptible to fluctuations due to market conditions, investor sentiment, and industry dynamics. External factors, economic conditions, and changes in consumer behavior can significantly impact Chewy's financial performance. As an e-commerce platform, Chewy heavily relies on efficient logistics and supply chain operations. Any disruptions or inefficiencies in these processes could affect its ability to meet customer demands and maintain high levels of customer satisfaction.

Additionally, the pet care industry is subject to various regulations, particularly concerning product safety, labeling, and health standards. Compliance with these regulations is crucial to avoid potential legal issues and to uphold consumer trust in the brand. Chewy's management team must be proactive in mitigating these risks and devising effective risk management strategies to navigate the competitive landscape and maintain its growth trajectory. By addressing these challenges, Chewy can continue to deliver on its mission of providing exceptional products and services that bring happiness to pets and their owners.
Alexandria Real Estate Equities, Inc. (NYSE: ARE), an S&P 500 company, is a best-in-class, mission-driven life science REIT making a positive and lasting impact on the world. As the pioneer of the life science real estate niche since its founding in 1994, Alexandria is the preeminent and longest-tenured owner, operator, and developer of collaborative life science, agtech, and advanced technology campuses in AAA innovation cluster locations, including Greater Boston, the San Francisco Bay Area, New York City, San Diego, Seattle, Maryland, and Research Triangle. The trusted partner to approximately 825 tenants, Alexandria has a total market capitalization of $30.6 billion and an asset base in North America of 74.9 million SF as of June 30, 2023, which includes 41.1 million RSF of operating properties and 5.3 million RSF of Class A/A+ properties undergoing construction, 9.4 million RSF of near-term and intermediate-term development and redevelopment projects, and 19.1 million SF of future development projects. Alexandria has a longstanding and proven track record of developing Class A/A+ properties clustered in life science, agtech, and advanced technology campuses that provide our innovative tenants with highly dynamic and collaborative environments that enhance their ability to successfully recruit and retain world-class talent and inspire productivity, efficiency, creativity, and success. Alexandria also provides strategic capital to transformative life science, agrifoodtech, climate innovation, and technology companies through our venture capital platform. We believe our unique business model and diligent underwriting ensure a high-quality and diverse tenant base that results in higher occupancy levels, longer lease terms, higher rental income, higher returns, and greater long-term asset value.
Weyerhaeuser (NYSE:WY) pays an annual dividend of $0.76 per share and currently has a dividend yield of 2.66%. The company has been increasing its dividend for 2 consecutive year(s), indicating that it does not yet have a strong track record of dividend growth. The dividend payout ratio is 87.36%. Payout ratios above 75% are not desirable because they may not be sustainable. Based on earnings estimates, WY will have a dividend payout ratio of 53.52% next year. This indicates that the company will be able to sustain or increase its dividend.

Read our dividend analysis for WY.
Altria Group, Inc. is a US-based tobacco company and one of the Big-3 tobacco companies internationally. The company was formerly known as Phillip Morris International but emerged with its new name in 2003. The rebranding was intended to help the company improve its image while it shifted away from the smokeable tobacco segments of the business. It is a Fortune 500 company and a member of the S&P 500. The company was a member of the Dow Jones Industrial Average for many years but fell from that position due to declining tobacco sales and the divestiture of businesses.

The company operates through a network of subsidiaries that include Phillip Morris USA. Phillip Morris USA is the core segment of business and includes the Marlboro line of cigarette brands. German immigrant Phillip Morris originally founded Phillip Morris in London in 1822. In 1844 the company began making its first line of machine-rolled cigarettes called English Ovals. The English Ovals remained in production in limited quantities until 2017.

By 1902 the company had moved to New York City, where it was incorporated. Operations continued uninterrupted until 1919, when it changed ownership, and then, in 1929, manufacturing operations were moved to Richmond, Virginia and closer to the tobacco fields.

Philip Morris made headlines again in 1933 when it integrated its manufacturing operations. This was done more than 30 years ahead of federal regulations and a ground-breaking move for the industry and America. After another multi-decade run of uninterrupted operations, the company began a series of acquisitions that included Miller Brewing, Kraft Foods and General Mills. Those acquisitions led to eventual mergers and spin-offs that resulted in SABMiller and Kraft General Mills.

Altria Group operates through a network of subsidiaries manufacturing and selling smokeable, smokeless and oral tobacco products. Subsidiaries include but not are limited to Philip Morris USA, John Middleton Inc. and U.S. Smokeless Tobacco Company. Brands include Marlboro, Marlboro Lights, Black & Mild, Copenhagen, Skoal, Red Sky and Husky. The company's principal customers are wholesalers and large retailers.

The company maintains a number of strategic partnerships as part of its efforts to shift away from smokeable tobacco. These include a 35% stake in JUUL smokeless tobacco products, a 45% stake in Canadian integrated cannabis company Cronos Group and a near-10% stake in ABInbev. These partnerships are intended to capitalize on smokeless tobacco and the legalization of cannabis at the US federal level.

Altria brought in more than $21 billion in 2021. The company employs more than 6,000 people and has paid more than $6.5 billion in cumulative dividends. The companys operations help support more than 1,200 US farmers and are sold in over 300,000 US retail establishments. Altria continues to be a leader in workforce quality and has received numerous awards, including a spot on the National Business Consortiums Best of the Best List for 2022.
Credit Suisse Group AG is a holding company, which engages in the provision of financial services. It operates through the following four divisions: Wealth Management, Investment Bank, Swiss Bank and Asset Management and four geographic regions: Switzerland, Europe, the Middle East and Africa (EMEA), Asia Pacific, and Americas. The Wealth Management division offers comprehensive wealth management and investment solutions, tailored financing, and advisory services to ultra-high-net-worth (UHNW) and high net-worth (HNW) individuals and external asset managers. The Investment Bank division offers a broad range of financial products and services focused on client-driven businesses and also supports Credit Suisse's Wealth Management division and its clients. The Swiss Bank division offers comprehensive advice and a wide range of financial solutions to private, corporate, and institutional clients in Switzerland. The Asset Management division offers investment solutions and services globally to a broad range of clients, including pension funds, governments, foundations and endowments, corporations, and individuals. The company was founded by Alfred Escher on July 5, 1856 and is headqua
New Delhi:

In a graceful convergence of artistry, culture, and sophistication, the illustrious Italian Lifestyle brand, Stefano Bemer, sets its course for the enchanting land of India. The visionary behind the brand, Mr. Tommaso Melani along with the distinguished Mr. Christopher Korey, embark on a journey to embrace the rich cultural heritage and intricate tapestry of the Indian subcontinent.

This remarkable voyage is steeped in history, as Italy and India share a connection that transcends time. Unearthing hidden gems from the annals of history, it is intriguing to note that the famed Roman senator and historian, Pliny the Elder, documented trade links between ancient Rome and the Indian subcontinent. These historical exchanges, traversing the landscapes of the Silk Road, lay the foundation for a modern-day union that melds Italian finesse with Indian opulence.

Unveiling Unknown Pioneers: Amidst the grandeur of Indian culture, Mr. Tommaso Melani steward of Stefano Bemer, and Mr. Christopher Korey, a hallmark of bespoke fashion and luxury, with a rich background in men's tailoring and real estate, will embark on an odyssey to connect with the Indian diaspora. Their mission transcends fashion  they seek to fathom the intricate depths of Indian heritage, converse with the very soul of Indian culture, and illuminate a path of unity through threads of craftsmanship and design.

A Cultural Kaleidoscope: In this enchanting narrative, Mr. Paresh Patel emerges as a bridge between worlds, offering an exclusive invitation-only event at The Discover Collection Club within the esteemed Ashok Hotel, Delhi. This soiree, set for 29th August 2023, becomes a canvas upon which Italian and Indian artistry converge in a harmonious symphony.

Crafting Conversations: Mr. Tommaso M. and Mr. Christopher Koreys desire to unravel the Indian cultural tapestry goes beyond mere observation. Its a pilgrimage of understanding and camaraderie. Through a unique cultural lens, they aspire to distill the essence of Indian heritage into their craft, forging an intercontinental dialogue that marries Italian savoir-faire with India's vibrant spirit.

Echoes of Legacy: As the evening unfolds, the echoes of heritage resound, intermingling the legacies of Michelangelo and Raja Ravi Varma, creating an artistic space that transcends geographical divides.

This is not merely an event; it's a transcendent journey of shared stories, a coming together of Italy and India under the banner of elegance, culture, and refined living.

For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.
Morris Chang founded Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company Limited in 1987. The company was founded as and remains to this day the world's leading pure-play semiconductor foundry. A semiconductor foundry manufactures semiconductors for other companies at their specification; clients of Taiwan Semiconductor include but are not limited to Advanced Micro Devices, Apple, NVIDIA and Broadcom. Even some semiconductor manufacturers with their own production facilities, such as Intel and Texas Instruments, use Taiwan Semiconductor to some degree.

This model aims to ensure Taiwan Semiconductor remains relevant to the semiconductor industry while never competing with its customers. The companys mission statement says it all to be the trusted technology and capacity provider of the global logic IC (integrated circuit) industry for years to come.

The company has been traded on the Taiwan stock exchange since 1993 and the New York Stock Exchange in 1997. Taiwan Semiconductor is the 2nd most valuable semiconductor company on the market and is only supplanted by Nvidia, a primary customer. In regard to its growth, the stock has grown revenue and earnings by better than 15% annually for investors since its IPO.

The company operates a network of foundries throughout Taiwan. As of 2022, there seven operations foundries and 2 in the works, including 1 in Arizona and 1 in Japan. The Arizona plant will be operational by 2024 and will begin manufacturing with the 3 nm processes.

With these, Taiwan Semiconductor can manufacture nearly 15 million 300 mm wafers per year. The companys capabilities include process nodes ranging from 2 microns to 4nm. The company also packages, tests, and markets integrated circuits, semiconductor devices and related services internationally. The companys products include logic, mixed-signal, RF and embedded memory chips.

Taiwan Semiconductor has been focused on maintaining its leading position right from the start. To that end, the company tends to reinvest large amounts of capital to increase and expand production as well as in the advancement of semiconductor technology.

Among the companys many advancements are the development of N7+ and then N5 and down to the current standard of N4. These technologies were the first commercially available extreme ultraviolet lithography processes. This technology allows for smaller circuitry on the microchip and increases the chip's transistor density and overall functioning. Areas of research are centered on 4 disciplines that include Logic, Interconnect, Memory and Artificial Intelligence. Specific avenues for research include transistor structure, ferroelectrics and on and off-chip interconnect systems.

Taiwan Semiconductor's revenue topped $57 billion in 2021. The company manufactured 12,302 different semiconductor devices that year, using 291 different technologies for 535 clients. Its products are used in mobile devices, telecommunications, automobiles, manufacturing and consumer technology, to name a few end markets.

The company employs more than 65,000 people and is committed to the shift to green energy and sustainability. To that end, it became the 1st semiconductor company to make the RE100 pledge which states it will use 100% renewable energy by the year 2050.






iShares Core S&P Small-Cap ETF, formerly iShares S&P SmallCap 600 Index Fund, seeks investment results that correspond generally to the price and yield performance of the Standard & Poor's SmallCap 600 Index (the Index). The Index measures the performance of publicly traded securities in the small-capitalization sector of the United States equity market. The Index serves as the underlying index for the S&P 600/Citigroup Growth and Value Index series. The component stocks are weighted according to the total float-adjusted market value of their outstanding shares. The component stocks in the Index have a market capitalization between $300 million and $1 billion (which may fluctuate depending on the overall level of the equity markets), and are selected for liquidity and industry group representation. The Index is adjusted to reflect changes in capitalization resulting from mergers, acquisition, stock rights, substitutions and other capital events.
F.N.B. Corporation, a bank and financial holding company, provides a range of financial products and services primarily to consumers, corporations, governments, and small- to medium-sized businesses in the United States. The company operates through three segments: Community Banking, Wealth Management, and Insurance. The Community Banking segment offers commercial banking solutions, including corporate and small business banking, investment real estate financing, business credit, capital market, and lease financing services. It also provides consumer banking products and services, such as deposit products, mortgage lending and consumer lending services, and mobile and online banking services. The Wealth Management segment provides personal and corporate fiduciary services comprising administration of decedent and trust estates; and securities brokerage and investment advisory services, mutual funds, and annuities. The Insurance segment comprises commercial and personal insurance, and reinsurance products, as well as mezzanine financing options for small- to medium-sized businesses. F.N.B. Corporation was founded in 1864 and is headquartered in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
Abbott Laboratories is a global healthcare company specializing in developing, manufacturing and marketing a wide range of healthcare products. The company has its headquarters in Abbott Park, Illinois and operates in more than 160 countries worldwide.

The company was founded in 1888 by Dr. Wallace C. Abbott, and it has since grown to become one of the world's largest and most respected healthcare companies. Abbott Laboratories has a diverse portfolio of products, including medical devices, diagnostic tests, nutritional products, and branded generic pharmaceuticals. The company is committed to developing innovative products that improve the quality of life for people worldwide.

Robert B. Ford is the current President and CEO of the company. He was appointed to this position in 2020 after serving as the company's Chief Operating Officer. He has been with Abbott Laboratories since 1996 and has held various leadership positions.

Abbott Laboratories has delivered strong financial performance, declining as investors seek growth. The company's net earnings have been increasing steadily. Abbott Laboratories has a solid balance sheet with a low debt-to-equity ratio. The company has consistently delivered strong cash flow, allowing it to invest in research and development and return value to shareholders. Abbott Laboratories has a higher price-to-earnings ratio than the industry average, and the company's price-to-book ratio is also higher than the industry average. These metrics suggest that the market has a positive outlook on Abbott Laboratories and is willing to pay a premium for the company's shares. Over the past year, Abbott Laboratories' stock has declined as consumers seek to see what the company will do post-pandemic. The company's shares have experienced some volatility, but overall, they have outperformed the broader market.

Abbott Laboratories operates in the healthcare industry, which is highly regulated and complex. The industry is characterized by rapidly evolving technology, changing regulatory requirements, and shifting consumer preferences. Abbott Laboratories competes with other large healthcare companies such as Johnson & Johnson.

Abbott Laboratories' robust product pipeline is expected to drive growth in the coming years. The company is focused on developing innovative products that address unmet medical needs and improve patient outcomes. In addition to its core businesses, Abbott Laboratories is expanding into new markets and investing in digital health technologies.

Like any company, Abbott Laboratories faces a range of risks and challenges. One of the most significant risks facing the company is regulatory uncertainty. Changes in regulatory requirements could impact the company's ability to bring products to market and could also increase the cost of doing business. Another risk facing the company is the threat of competitive pressures. The healthcare industry is highly competitive, and Abbott Laboratories faces competition from established companies and new entrants. Changes in consumer preferences could also impact the company's performance, particularly in the nutritional products segment.

Additionally, Abbott Laboratories is exposed to geopolitical risks, such as changes in trade policies or political instability in key markets. The company's international operations also expose it to currency fluctuations, which could impact its financial performance.
Halogen Software Inc. (Halogen) is a Canada-based company, which is engaged in providing cloud-based talent management (TM) solutions. The Company provides industry specific configurations of its solutions for healthcare, professional services, financial services, manufacturing, education, public sector and hospitality. The Company offers Halogen 1:1 Exchange, Halogen Accelerator, Halogen 360 Multirater, Halogen Job Description Builder, Halogen Learning, Halogen Myers-Briggs Module, Halogen Compensation, Halogen Succession and Halogen Talent Acquisition. The Company offers its TM solution to new customers under the subscription-based model. Its solutions include Performance Management, Learning and Development, Succession and Leadership, Compensation, Recruiting and Onboarding. Halogen's Certain to Succeed services are designed to help to build workforce by implementing its talent management software, providing support to the HR team and its talent management strategies.
iShares Core S&P 500 ETF (the Fund) is an exchange-traded fund. The Fund seeks investment results that correspond generally to the price and yield performance of the Standard & Poors 500 Index (the Index). The Index measures the performance of the large-capitalization sector of the United States equity market. The component stocks are weighted according to the total float-adjusted market value of their outstanding shares. The Fund invests in a representative sample of securities included in the Index that collectively has an investment profile similar to the Index. The Fund invests in sectors, such as consumer non-cyclical, financial, energy, technology, communications, industrial, consumer cyclical, basic materials and utilities. BlackRock Fund Advisors (BFA) serves as the investment advisor to the Fund.
Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. is a prominent American supplier of scientific instrumentation, reagents, consumables, and software services. The company was formed in 2006 through the merger of Thermo Electron and Fisher Scientific, established players in the scientific and laboratory equipment industry. Headquartered in Waltham, Massachusetts, Thermo Fisher Scientific operates in the life sciences, healthcare, and analytical technologies sectors.

The company's history dates back to 1956 when Thermo Electron was co-founded by George N. Hatsopoulos and Peter M Nomikos, focusing on analytical and laboratory products. Fisher Scientific, founded in 1902 by Chester G. Fisher, supplied laboratory equipment, chemicals, and services. The merger in 2006 created Thermo Fisher Scientific, combining their expertise and product portfolios to provide comprehensive solutions to scientific and healthcare communities.

Thermo Fisher Scientific's mission is to enable customers to make the world healthier, cleaner, and safer through its innovative products and services. They strive to advance research, enhance healthcare and support analytical applications globally. The company offers a wide range of products and services under the brand names of Thermo Scientific, Fisher Scientific, and others. Their offerings include advanced instruments, consumables, reagents, software, and services tailored for research, diagnostics, and industrial applications. Thermo Fisher Scientific's products are utilized by academic institutions, pharmaceutical companies, biotech firms, healthcare providers, and research organizations worldwide.

Thermo Fisher Scientific's management team is led by Mr. Marc N. Casper, who serves as Chairman, President, and Chief Executive Officer. Under his leadership, the company has grown remarkably and expanded its global footprint.

Thermo Fisher Scientific has exhibited strong financial performance in recent years. The company's annual revenue and net income have been increasing yearly. The net profit margin stands at over 10%, demonstrating the company's ability to convert revenue into profit efficiently. The company maintains a healthy financial position with a debt-to-equity ratio indicating that it relies less on debt financing and holds a strong balance sheet confirming its financial stability and ability to meet short-term obligations.

Thermo Fisher Scientific's valuation metrics show positive signs. The market has expressed confidence in the company's future earnings potential, and that confidence is reflected in its valuation metrics. This indicates that investors are optimistic about the company's future growth prospects. Thermo Fisher Scientific's stock has demonstrated solid performance, which suggests investors' positive sentiment toward the company. However, various factors, including macroeconomic conditions, industry trends, and company-specific developments, can influence market performance.

Thermo Fisher Scientific operates in the measuring and controlling devices industry, specifically life sciences tools and services. The company is a dominant player in this industry, benefiting from its vast product portfolio and global reach. Its comprehensive offerings and strong customer relationships provide a competitive advantage over peers. With a diverse customer base and innovative solutions, the company is well-positioned to capitalize on the growing demand for advanced scientific and healthcare products. Thermo Fisher Scientific enjoys a competitive edge in the industry due to its extensive product range, technical expertise, and established market presence. The company's continuous investments in research and development enable it to introduce cutting-edge products that cater to evolving customer needs. Additionally, strategic acquisitions have expanded its capabilities, strengthening its competitive positioning.

The company has numerous growth opportunities in the life sciences, healthcare, and industrial sectors. The rising demand for innovative research tools, diagnostic solutions, and analytical instruments presents attractive prospects for Thermo Fisher Scientific. The company's strong global presence allows it to tap into emerging markets and cater to a diverse customer base. Thermo Fisher Scientific possesses several competitive advantages, including its vast product portfolio, research capabilities, and established reputation in the industry. Its ability to provide end-to-end solutions across multiple sectors sets it apart from competitors. Moreover, strategic partnerships and acquisitions have facilitated access to new technologies and expanded its customer base, bolstering its competitive position.

Despite its strengths, Thermo Fisher Scientific faces certain risks and challenges. Market competition from established players and emerging companies could impact market share and pricing power. Global economic conditions and regulatory changes may influence the company's operations and profitability. Moreover, unexpected events like supply chain disruptions or technology shifts could pose challenges. Thermo Fisher Scientific employs robust risk management strategies to mitigate potential risks. These include diversifying its product portfolio, investing in research and development, and maintaining financial stability. The company continuously monitors market dynamics to adapt to changing trends and demands. Additionally, strong governance and compliance practices ensure adherence to regulatory requirements.
BJ's Wholesale Club Holdings, Inc., together with its subsidiaries, operates warehouse clubs on the eastern half of the United States. It provides perishable, general merchandise, gasoline, coupon books, promotions, and other ancillary services. The company sells its products through the websites BJs.com, BerkleyJensen.com, and Wellsleyfarms.com, as well as the mobile app. The company was formerly known as Beacon Holding Inc. and changed its name to BJ's Wholesale Club Holdings, Inc. in February 2018. BJ's Wholesale Club Holdings, Inc. was founded in 1984 and is headquartered in Westborough, Massachusetts.
Exxon Mobil Corporation is the largest direct descendent of John D. Rockefellers Standard Oil and one of the worlds largest companies. Its earliest roots lie with Vacuum Oil which got its start in the 1860s. Vacuum Oils primary product was kerosene, an important advancement for heating and lighting in rural America. Vacuum Oil was later merged with Standard Oil of New Jersey which was the parent operation of the Standard Oil empire prior to its breakup. Standard Oil of New Jersey would merge with other independent operators over the next few years until settling on the brand Exxon for most of its operations.

Meanwhile, Standard Oil of New York was operating under much the same impetus, merging and growing, until it became known as Mobil. Then, in 1999, the two giants became one with a merger of equals that on paper had Exxon buying Mobil. Now, the combined company operates under the Exxon, Mobil, and Esso brands as an international vertically integrated energy and petrochemical business.

Today, the company explores and produces crude oil and natural gas and their derivative products globally. As of 2022, it was ranked 6th on Forbes Fortune 500 list and 12th on the Global 500 list but it has held positions from #1 to #10 over the years. In terms of its operations, it is the worlds second-largest oil refiner and the largest refiner outside of China. In terms of reserves, ExxonMobil claimed about 18.5 million barrels of oil and oil equivalents at the end of 2021 and was ranked 15th globally.

ExxonMobil operates through three segments that are the Upstream, Downstream, and Chemical segments. The Upstream segment explores for and produces oil and oil equivalents and represents roughly 70% of the income. The Downstream segment gathers, receives, stores, transports and refines oil and equivalents and their derivatives. The Downstream segment also markets and delivers fuel products to consumers and businesses. The Chemicals segment produces the full range of petrochemicals including plastics, resins and synthetic rubber.

ExxonMobil is committed to advancing sustainable and carbon-free energy solutions. The company is targeting 2050 for net-zero emissions and its 2030 interim targets are in alignment with the Paris Accord, the EU's Global Methane Pledge, and US Methane Emissions Reduction Action Plan. The companys plans include investing $15 billion into reducing greenhouse emissions by 2028.






Loblaw Companies Limited, a food and pharmacy company, engages in the grocery, pharmacy, health and beauty, apparel, general merchandise, financial services, and wireless mobile products and services businesses in Canada. It operates in two segments, Retail and Financial Services. The Retail segment operates corporate and franchise-owned retail food, and associate-owned drug stores. This segment also includes in-store pharmacies, other health and beauty product stores, apparel stores, and other general merchandise stores. The Financial Services segment provides credit card and banking services, the PC Optimum program, insurance brokerage services, and telecommunication services. It also offers PC Health app. The company provides its products and services under various brands. The company was founded in 1919 and is headquartered in Brampton, Canada. Loblaw Companies Limited is a subsidiary of George Weston Limited.
The following companies are subsidiares of Laboratory Co. of America: 1957285 Ontario Inc. dba Quality Underwriting Services, 2089729 Ontario Inc., 2248848 Ontario Inc., 3065619 Nova Scotia Company, 3257959 Nova Scotia Company, 8165335 Canada Inc., 8348596 Canada Inc., 896988 Ontario Limited, 9279-3280 Quebec Inc., Accupath Diagnostic Laboratories Inc., Assets of Pathology Inc, Beacon LBS IPA Inc., Beacon Laboratory Benefit Solutions Inc., CannAmm GP Inc., CannAmm Limited Partnership, Center for Disease Detection International, Center for Disease Detection LLC, Centrex Clinical Laboratories Inc., Chiltern, Clearstone Central Laboratories (U.S.) Inc., Clearstone Holdings (International) Ltd., Clinical Outreach Laboratory Services, Clipper Holdings Inc., Colorado Coagulation Consultants Inc., Colorado Laboratory Services LLC, Correlagen Diagnostics Inc., Covance Inc., Curalab Inc., Cytometry Associates Inc., Czura Thornton (Hong Kong) Limited, DCL Acquisition Inc., DCL Medical Laboratories LLC, DCL Sub LLC, DIANON Systems Inc., DL Holdings Limited Partnership, Decision Diagnostics L.L.C. (aka DaVinici/Medicorp LLC), Diagnostic Services Inc., DynaLifeDX, Dynacare - Gamma Laboratory Partnership, Dynacare Company, Dynacare G.P. Inc., Dynacare Holdco LLC, Dynacare Laboratories Inc., Dynacare Laboratories Limited Partnership, Dynacare Northwest Inc., Dynacare Realty Inc., DynalifeDX Infrastructure Inc., Envigo's nonclinical contract research services business, Esoterix Genetic Counseling LLC, Esoterix Genetic Laboratories LLC, Esoterix Inc., Execmed Health Services Inc., FirstSource Laboratory Solutions Inc., GDML Medical Laboratories Inc, Gamma Dynacare Central Medical Laboratories GP Inc., Gamma Dynacare Central Medical Laboratory Limited Partnership, HHLA Lab-In-An-Envelope LLC, Health Testing Centers Inc., Health Trans Services Inc., Home Healthcare Laboratory of America LLC, IDX Pathology Inc., Impact Genetics Corporation, Impact Genetics Inc., Kaleida LabCorp LLC, Lab Delivery Service of New York City Inc., LabCorp BVBA, LabCorp Belgium Holdings Inc., LabCorp Central Laboratories (Canada) Inc., LabCorp Central Laboratories (China) Inc., LabCorp Colorado Inc., LabCorp Development Company, LabCorp Employer Services Inc., LabCorp Health System Diagnostics LLC, LabCorp Indiana Inc., LabCorp Japan G.K., LabCorp Limited, LabCorp Michigan Inc., LabCorp Nebraska Inc., LabCorp Neon Ltd., LabCorp Neon Switzerland S.a.r.l., LabCorp Specialty Testing Billing Service Inc., LabCorp Specialty Testing Group Inc., LabCorp Staffing Solutions Inc., LabCorp Tennessee LLC, LabCorp UK Holdings Ltd., LabWest Inc., Laboratoire Bio-Medic Inc., Laboratory Corporation of America, Lifecodes Corporation, LipoScience Inc., Litholink Corporation, MEDTOX Scientific Inc., MNG Laboratories, MedAxio Insurance Medical Services GP Inc., MedAxio Insurance Medical Services LP, Medical Neurogenitics LLC, Medtox Diagnostics Inc., Medtox Laboratories Inc., Monogram Biosciences Inc., Monogram Biosciences UK Limited, Myriad Autoimmunes Vectra Testing Business, NWT Inc., National Genetics Institute, New Brighton Business Center LLC, New Imaging Diagnostics LLC, New Molecular Diagnostics Ventures LLC, Orchid Cellmark ULC, Ovia Health, PA Labs Inc., Paclab LLC, Path Lab Incorporated, Pathology Associates Medical Lab LLC, Pee Dee Pathology Associates Inc., Personal Genome Diagnostics Inc., Persys Technology Inc., Pixel by LabCorp, Princeton Diagnostic Laboratories of America Inc., Protedyne Corporation, SW/DL LLC, Saint Josephs-PAML LLC, Sequenom Biosciences (India) Pvt. Ltd., Sequenom Inc, Sequenom Inc., Tandem Labs Inc., Toxikon Corporation, Tri-Cities Laboratory LLC, Viro-Med Laboratories Inc., Visiun, and Yakima Medical Arts Inc..

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Hersha Hospitality Trust (NYSE:HT) pays an annual dividend of $0.20 per share and currently has a dividend yield of 2.02%. The dividend payout ratio is 6.45%. This payout ratio is at a healthy, sustainable level, below 75%. Based on earnings estimates, HT will have a dividend payout ratio of 21.98% next year. This indicates that the company will be able to sustain or increase its dividend.

Read our dividend analysis for HT.
Weather Alert

...FREEZE WARNING IN EFFECT FROM 9 PM CDT /10 PM EDT/ THIS EVENING TO 9 AM CDT /10 AM EDT/ TUESDAY... * WHAT...Sub-freezing temperatures between 23 and 29 degrees expected. * WHERE...All of southern Illinois, southwest Indiana, western Kentucky and southeast Missouri. * WHEN...From 9 PM CDT this evening to 9 AM CDT Tuesday. * IMPACTS...Frost and freeze conditions will kill crops, other sensitive vegetation and possibly damage unprotected outdoor plumbing. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS...This will end the growing season. PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS... Take steps now to protect tender plants from the cold. To prevent freezing and possible bursting of outdoor water pipes they should be wrapped, drained, or allowed to drip slowly. Those that have in-ground sprinkler systems should drain them and cover above- ground pipes to protect them from freezing. &&
R&M, the globally active developer and provider of high-end infrastructure solutions for data and communications networks based in Wetzikon, Switzerland, is opening up new areas of application for industrial solutions. The R&M portfolio for the Industrial LAN market comprises network components and cables for harsh environments.

R&M sees new areas of application for example in energy and wind power, the oil and gas industry, and mining. When exploration companies and municipal utilities integrate their assets into stable data networks, they can monitor their operations remotely in real time.

Controlling more processes

In the future, operators will be able to control more processes digitally and from any location via the Internet and the cloud. This makes it possible, for example, to optimally coordinate maintenance work and deploy technicians and vehicles more efficiently.

R&M sees similar requirements in hydroelectric power plants, wind power plants, solar fields and every type of utility network. In almost every case, todays systems should be integrated into IP data networks and cloud services. They are usually located in open terrain and are exposed to all types of weather  and the same applies to network connectivity.

Data networks for transport

Data networks are currently being expanded further by traffic carriers. Entire railway lines, highways, tunnels and airfields are now integrated into online services. This enables operators to use cost-effective, web-based monitoring and management tools. Here, too, R&M is seeing a high demand for robust cabling and connection technology.

The construction industry is increasingly using digital solutions such as Building Information Modelling (BIM). This makes it possible to implement construction projects more efficiently and with fewer expert personnel. The individual trades can precisely tune data, dimensions and deadlines to each other. This requires robust LAN and WLAN infrastructures on the construction site that are protected from water and dust.

R&M sees other new areas of application for the Industrial LAN portfolio wherever digitalisation is carried out in harsh environments. These include agriculture, ports, transport and IP-based outdoor video surveillance.

Automation is a classic field of application. Entire factories will be equipped with Ethernet/IP networks in order to integrate production into standard digital systems. The R&M connection modules for network and DIN rail installations are also available in these environments.

New IP67 outlets

R&M provides a portfolio of copper-based connectivity solutions for industrial applications. These include the new outlets with protection class IP67. Together with an IP67 connection cable, the plugged connections are also equipped for higher mechanical loads, such as wind, humidity or ice load.

Field-mountable RJ45 connectors with die-cast zinc housing are also new to the portfolio. They offer all-round protection against electromagnetic fields. Reinforced installation and patch cords complete the industrial portfolio. Among other things, R&M has shielded PUR patch cords in the Cat. 6A category with IP67 plug housing in its portfolio.

R&M products that are classified with protection class IP67 can cope with extreme conditions indoors and outdoors. They can withstand moisture, dust and temperatures ranging from -25 to +80 degrees Celsius. They are resistant to gasoline, oil, alkaline solutions, salt water and UV radiation, and support more and more popular additional services such as Power over Ethernet (PoE).

IDC technology crucial

From R&Ms point of view, insulation displacement contact (IDC) technology is crucial. It guarantees a permanently stable, gas-tight and corrosion-free contact of the copper wires in LAN adapters and RJ45 connectors.

R&M is a technology leader in the field of IDC technology. The IDC wiring is designed in such a way that it can be executed without errors in just a few simple steps. Based on decades of expertise in material composition, design and quality assurance, R&M manufactures the network components in its own factories.--TradeArabia News Service
In this article, we are going to discuss the 20 states that produce the most craft beer. You can skip our detailed analysis of the rising popularity of craft beer in the U.S., the end of an era in American craft brewing, and the various unholy alliances in the craft industry, and go directly to 5 States that Produce the Most Craft Beer.

Although the art of brewing has been around since ancient times, the modern-day craft beer trend began in the 1960s in the United States, when Fritz Maytag bought the Anchor Brewing Company in San Francisco. He decided to improve the quality of beer using new brewing techniques, leading to the introduction of the handcrafted Anchor Porter in 1972, and Liberty Ale and Christmas Ale in 1975, thus starting a craft beer revolution.

The Rising Popularity of Craft Beer:

The United States is the country that produces the most craft beer in the world. As we mentioned in our article  20 States with the Most Craft Breweries  , there were 9,552 craft breweries, brewpubs, and taprooms in the U.S. in 2022, up almost 99% from 2015. Meanwhile, retail dollar sales of craft increased 5%, to $28.4 billion, and now account for 24.6% of the $115 billion overall U.S. beer market.

The principle strength of craft brewing lies in its vast array of beer innovations to reflect the shift of todays consumers, as it offers its customers something different from what theyre normally used to. Craft lovers are willing to pay a little more for beer that holds more taste, flavor, variety, and alcohol. The quality ingredients and delicious tastes that craft beers offer are not usually found in their mass-produced counterparts. Moreover, drinking craft is also a way to support your local businesses.

The End of an Era:

Anchor Brewing, the first and oldest craft brewery in America which started in San Francisco in 1896, announced last month that it would permanently end its operations after it struggled financially as a result of a competitive market, inflation, and declining sales, particularly after the iconic brands $85 million acquisition by the Japanese beer distributor, Sapporo, in 2017.

Story continues

During the pandemic, the Grandfather of American Craft Brewing rebranded and sold its products in grocery stores. But in June this year, the company limited its distribution to the state of California and ceased making its popular Christmas ale after almost 50 years.

The disgruntled former employees of Anchor blame its Japanese parent company for their beloved brewerys decline. The workers describe a string of errors committed by Sapporo in running the California-based brewery  the executives postponed necessary plant maintenance, fought workers successful union drive in 2019 and stalled on the follow-up (and eventually successful) contract negotiations this year, and demonstrated an extremely novice grasp of Anchors brewing cycle.

However, Sapporo USAs biggest single mistake while running Anchor was the rebrand. The brewery rolled out a new look for Anchors packaging and logo in 2021, apparently designed to bolster the brands since-discarded national sales strategy. This move proved to be a disaster, with potential customers throwing a fit on social media.

Anchors demise represents the wider economic challenges craft brewers face in the years since the pandemic when consumer habits have changed and sales have suffered across the industry, leading to smaller breweries acquired by major beer corporations to rebrand, or to cease operations altogether.

Last year, Sapporo also announced the acquisition of California-based Stone Brewing Co. for $165 million.

Unholy Alliances:

Anchors case, though extremely sad, is not unique in the current craft brewing scenario of the country. Several large beer makers have tried their luck at the craft trend by investing heavily and acquiring some very popular local breweries, but these alliances have not always gone to plan.

Craft breweries have a connection with the communities they serve thats unique to the industry, and so the entry of major corporations in the sector has not been well-received by craft lovers, who prefer to keep their community intimate and authentic. Devotees of craft beers also worry that such mass-producing corporations will tamper with the recipes of their favorite tipples.

Constellation Brands, Inc. (NYSE:STZ) bought Ballast Point Brewing in 2016 for $1 billion, at the absolute peak of the craft brewery acquisition craze. Only a few years later, the Fortune-500 industry giant sold the Ballast Point brand to Illinois-based Kings and Convicts Brewing Co. for something around $40 million. It was also revealed in May this year that Constellation Brands, Inc. (NYSE:STZ) is now re-selling the famous Funky Buddha Brewery back to its original founders, a news warmly welcomed by craft beer enthusiasts around the country. Constellation Brands, Inc. (NYSE:STZ) made headlines this summer when its Mexican beer brand, Modelo Especial, became the Top-Selling Beer in America after dethroning Bud Light.

Similarly, Anheuser-Busch InBev SA/NV (NYSE:BUD) also announced to offload several of its craft beer brands earlier this month, as it was looking to focus its efforts on fewer brands. Tilray Brands, Inc. (NASDAQ:TLRY)  a craft beer and cannabis company that was among the first to be licensed for medical cannabis in Canada  has announced earlier this month that it has agreed to acquire eight beer and beverage brands from Anheuser-Busch InBev SA/NV (NYSE:BUD) for an undisclosed amount.

The deal includes the Shock Top, Blue Point, 10 Barrel, Breckenridge, Redhook, Widmer Brothers, Square Mile Cider, and HiBall Energy brands. Upon satisfaction of customary closing conditions, Tilray Brands, Inc. (NASDAQ:TLRY) will become the fifth-largest craft brewer in the U.S. with a 5% market share.

Tilray Brands, Inc. (NASDAQ:TLRY) already owns multiple beverage brands and is also among the Biggest Marijuana Companies in the World.

With that said, here are the States that Produce the Most Craft Beer.

20 States that Produce the Most Craft Beer

Valentyn Volkov/Shutterstock.com

Methodology:

To collect data for this article, we have referred to the State Craft Beer Sales and Production Statistics 2022 by the Brewers Association, looking for the U.S. States that Produce the Most Craft Beer. We have ranked the following states by the number of barrels (bbls) of craft beer they produced in 2022. A barrel of beer in the United States is 31 gallons.

20. Vermont

Craft Beer Produced in 2022: 324,505 bbls

With 15.6 breweries per 100,000 21+ adults, Vermont is the state with the most craft breweries per capita in the United States. The 78 breweries in the Green Mountain State produced over 324,000 barrels of beer in 2022, or 20.1 gallons per every 21+ adult  the most for any state in America.

19. Michigan

Craft Beer Produced in 2022: 324,975 bbls

Michigan is home to some of the Oldest Craft Breweries in America, pumping out quality beer month after month. Founders and Bells are by far the most well-known and largest of the Michigan breweries. Bells Brewery was acquired by Kirin-owned Lion World Beverages for an undisclosed price in 2021.

18. Missouri

Craft Beer Produced in 2022: 349,019 bbls

Missouri is home to Kansas City, a city that was quite literally built on beer, so it comes as no surprise that the Midwestern state has such a bustling craft scene. The highly-decorated Perennial Artisan Brewery of St. Louis specializes in premium craft beer production.

17. Maine

Craft Beer Produced in 2022: 376,702 bbls

The craft trend is getting increasingly popular in Maine, with 117 new breweries popping up in the state since 2012. Allagash Brewing Company is a popular brewery in the Pine Tree State.

One of the oldest and best American breweries focusing on Belgian styles, Allagashs claim to fame is its phenomenal witbier.

16. Illinois

Craft Beer Produced in 2022: 426,862 bbls

The 302 craft breweries in Illinois had an overall economic impact of $2.81 billion in the Prairie State last year. Revolution is the largest craft brewery in Illinois, operating a bustling brewpub and a 90,000 square foot production facility.

15. Virginia

Craft Beer Produced in 2022: 460,315 bbls

A popular brewery in Virginia is Devils Backbone, popular for its Vienna Lager and other hearty brews. Established in 2008, the Roseland-based craft brewery was eventually acquired by the brewing giant Anheuser-Busch InBev SA/NV (NYSE:BUD) in 2016 for an undisclosed amount. Virginia ranks 15th in our List of States that Produce the Most Craft Beer.

14. Massachusetts

Craft Beer Produced in 2022: 493,365 bbls

Massachusetts is home to the largest microbrewery in the world  The Boston Beer Company, Inc. (NYSE:SAM). Now the fourth-largest brewer in the U.S. with a revenue of over $2 billion in 2022, The Boston Beer Company, Inc. (NYSE:SAM) helped start a craft beer revolution with its Samuel Adams Boston Lager. Samuel Adams had dollar sales of $219.8 million in U.S. multi-outlets in 2022.

Stock price of The Boston Beer Company, Inc. (NYSE:SAM) also reported a YTD increase of 10.82% as of August 28th.

13. Georgia

Craft Beer Produced in 2022: 558,362 bbls

Georgia witnessed quite the craft revolution over the last decade, with 149 new breweries opening up in the last ten years. The Tropicalia by Creature Comforts is an extremely sought-after beer and ranks among the Best Craft Beer Brands in America.

12. Washington

Craft Beer Produced in 2022: 577,730 bbls

Washington is the second-largest hop growing region in the world, so you know the beer is as fresh as it comes. The Yakima Valley represents approximately 75% of the total U.S. hop acreage, accounting for over 77% of the countrys entire crop. Fremont Brewing is a popular brewery from the Evergreen State. Washington ranks among the Largest Craft Beer Producing States in the U.S.

11. Minnesota

Craft Beer Produced in 2022: 594,606 bbls

By every measure, the craft beer industry in Minnesota is booming compared to a decade ago. However, breweries in the Land of 10,000 Lakes have had a very tough time over the last couple of years, with several of them calling it a day.

One of Minnesotas largest craft brewers, Tin Whiskers, announced its closure last year, with a prediction from the owner that the craft beer industry is a bubble in the midst of a burst.

10. Colorado

Craft Beer Produced in 2022: 834,006 bbls

Colorado is likely one of the best states for craft beer, since craft has been a thing there for decades. There are 440 breweries in the Centennial State with a total economic impact of $2.42 billion.

Colorado-based Ceria Brewing Co. became a pioneer of marijuana infused beverages when it debuted its first THC beer in 2018. Colorado ranks among states where craft beer is most popular.

9. Oregon

Craft Beer Produced in 2022: 867,236 bbls

With over 300 breweries and brew pubs, Oregon is considered the best beer state in the union and the craft beer capital of the west. In fact, beer is so highly regarded in the Beaver State that you can study fermentation science at Oregon State University, or get a certificate in the business of craft beer from Portland State University.

Oregon sits among the top 10 states that produce the most craft beer.

8. North Carolina

Craft Beer Produced in 2022: 898,929 bbls

Craft beer has an economic impact of $2.1 billion per year and creates 18,000 jobs in North Carolina. This is due to the more than 400 craft breweries present in the Old North State.

Burial Beer Company is a popular craft maker in North Carolina.

7. Wisconsin

Craft Beer Produced in 2022: 1,078,665 bbls

Breweries and Wisconsin go hand in hand and the state is known far and wide for its delicious beers and passionate brewing culture. The Minhas Craft Brewery is a popular name in the town of Monroe. Family-owned since 1845, the brewery has survived the Great Depression, the Prohibition, brushes with the mob, and even two major fires. The 5% ABV Boxer Lager is a top-selling craft beer by Minhas.

6. Ohio

Craft Beer Produced in 2022: 1,286,829 bbls

Ohio saw 344 new craft breweries opening up since 2012, producing over 1.2 million barrels of beer in 2022. The Cleveland-based Platform Brewing Co. was also acquired by Anheuser-Busch InBev SA/NV (NYSE:BUD) in 2019. The Midwest is the region with the most craft breweries in the U.S. Ohio ranks 6th among U.S. States that Produce the Most Craft Beer.

Click to continue reading and see the 5 States that Produce the Most Craft Beer.

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Disclosure: None. 20 States that Produce the Most Craft Beer is originally published on Insider Monkey.
A massive surge Venezuelan migrants and refugees has been reported crossing the Darien jungle between Colombia and Panama, headed toward the United States.

Venezuelan migrants with a Colombian immigration official [Photo: @MigracionCol]

Panamanian migration authorities reported on Thursday that between 2,500 and 3,000 migrantsmostly from Venezuela but also many Ecuadorians, Haitians and growing numbers from Africa and Chinaare crossing the Darien daily. An estimated 248,000 migrants crossed in all of 2022, while this year has already seen more than 300,000.

Last week, videos of thousands of Venezuelan migrants entering from the Colombian side, including many families with children, went viral on social media.

In a joint program with the United States and Colombian governments, Panama deployed thousands of security forces to block the migrants. The only effect, however, has been to compel the travelers to take even more perilous and longer routes through the dangerous and dense jungle. Last week, Panamanian authorities threatened to close the border, which will only lead to more migrants dying and going missing attempting to cross.

Earlier this year, Venezuelans drove a surge in migration in the days before the Biden administration imposed a new ban on asylum seekers at the US-Mexico border in May.

More than 7.3 million Venezuelansover a fifth of the pre-crisis populationhave emigrated since 2014. A deep economic and political crisis began that year, prompted primarily by a drop in international oil prices and an economic and financial blockade by the United States aimed at facilitating regime change.

With the drying up of international reserves necessary for basic imports like food, medicines, machinery and parts, the economy shrank 80 percent. At its lowest point in the first two years of the COVID-19 pandemic, nearly 95 percent of the population was living under the official poverty line and suffering from food insecurity in the country with the largest oil reserves in the world.

In May 2020, a failed mercenary invasion organized with the support of the Trump administration and US oligarchs spelled the end of the attempts to install the deeply unpopular US puppet Juan Guaido, who had declared himself Venezuelan president in January 2019. Then, after the Russian invasion of Ukraine instigated by the US and NATO powers, the Biden administration began seeking a limited rapprochement with President Nicolas Maduro to procure alternatives to Russian oil.

Last year, Maduro renewed negotiations with the US-backed opposition and announced presidential elections for 2024. Then, in November 2022, the Biden Treasury Department allowed Chevron to resume operations in Venezuela, including oil exports to the United States. Oil production has increased from negligible amounts to nearly 800,000 barrels per day (bpd) in July. This compares to 2-3 million bpd before sanctions began, while crude oil prices around $80 per barrel today remain far below the peak of $147 per barrel in 2008.

The US State Department also expressed support for an anti-corruption crusade launched by Maduro that led to the arrest of 76 top officials and businesspeople associated with the state-owned oil company PDVSA. Most belonged to the boliburguesia, a layer that made ill-gotten fortunes under the Bolivarian regimes of bourgeois nationalist Hugo Chavez and his successor Maduro.

Through measures of economic war, including the seizure of foreign assets of the Venezuelan state, US imperialism essentially rebooted the Venezuelan economy and temporarily succeeded in its main geopolitical objective of cutting Venezuelas oil supply to China. However, as production restarts, most of the Venezuelan petroleum coke is being shipped to China, mainly to service a massive debt, and Turkey.

However, the United States is now seeking to use Chevron and ongoing sanctions to revert the country back to before the nationalization of Venezuelan oil in 1976 and place it directly back in the hands of US corporations.

As the United States escalates its war drive against Russia and China, the dispute over oil and other major commodities in Venezuela and the rest of South America threatens to become a flashpoint in a global conflict.

Maduro has combined appeals to Washington with his demagogic anti-imperialist rhetoric, while exploiting a slight economic uptick last year to absurdly proclaim a recovery and fixing of the economy. However, the economy is already stagnating this year given the low levels of national consumption and lack of access to credit and trade markets internationally.

The Andres Bello Catholic University reported that multidimensional poverty fell from 65.2 percent to 50.5 percent of households last year, but most households still depend on a tenuous access to social assistance. Ninety percent of homes require bags of food from the Local Supply and Production Councils (CLAP), but only 35 percent get them monthly, according to the study. Meanwhile, two-thirds of students rely on school nutritional support and reports indicate that most dont show up to school when this aid is not available.

Most significantly, study authors found that inequality has continued to increase sharply. The Gini coefficient, which estimates income distribution, rose from 0.407 in 2014 to 0.603 last year, which places Venezuela as the most unequal country in the Americas.

The historic lowering of the standard of living for workers in what was one of the wealthier countries in the region, while a thin layer continued to enrich itself, has only been made possible thanks to the violent suppression of the class struggle by the Maduro administration. Every sign of social opposition from below has been met by the use of the Bolivarian National Guard, the special forces and political armed groups.

While the US was never able to rally any popular support behind Guaido, social hatred to Maduro has reached the point that polls show that Maria Corina Machado, a long-time right-wing politician financed by Washington who broke with Guaido, would defeat Maduro in the presidential elections, obtaining 50 percent of the vote. The Maduro government, however, has disqualified Machado.

Several reports from Venezuelans inside and outside the country reflect widespread popular illusions that a government under Machado, whose politics are inspired in Margaret Thatcher, would lead to an ending of sanctions and an economic recovery. However, whether it is under Maduro, Machado or any other capitalist politician, the Venezuelan ruling elite offers no alternative to the subordination of the economy to foreign finance capital, which is intent on exploiting the countrys natural resources and cheap labor, maintaining conditions of widespread misery.

These same calculations have also applied to Venezuelan migrants. Numerous papers from the World Bank, IMF, and US-based think-tanks have described the exodus as a lucrative opportunity, proposing injections of capital in Mexico, South and Central America aimed at exploiting the young and relatively skilled and educated Venezuelan workforce. Undoubtedly, a major incentive for rejecting migrants from the US is to exploit them at cheaper rates south of the border, while profits ultimately find their way to Wall Street.

About 2.5 million Venezuelans moved to Colombia, which has regularized the residency status of virtually all of them under a Temporary Protection Status. While allowing migrants to work legally, the temporary nature of the program maintains a vulnerable position exploited by employers.

The US authorities have also reached agreements with countries in Central America and Colombia, in some cases involving European governments and Canada, to establish third-country facilities where refugees will be compelled to apply for asylum.

Earlier this month, Mexico announced a plan to admit 20,000 vetted refugees from Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua and Venezuela over three years to a program of work opportunities in regions with labor shortages, i.e., the most desperate migrants will be super-exploited under the most grueling and unsafe conditions. On top of $40 million for the program, Biden also handed the Mexican authorities and bosses a vague promise of resettlement referrals to the US, which will be kept dangling just out of reach of the refugees.

At the same time, from all sides, Venezuelan migrants face victimization by police and military forces, xenophobic campaigns stirred up by Latin Americas ruling elites, lack of housing and social assistance, precarious, unsafe and largely informal working conditions, threats by organized crime and countless other deadly obstacles.

Just last week, at least 18 people, mostly Venezuelan migrants, died when their bus crashed in Puebla, Mexico, while 29 migrants, mostly Venezuelans, were injured when their bus fell into a precipice in Costa Rica.

This generation of Venezuelan workers has not only been scattered across the entire American continent, but has experienced in one country after another the bankruptcy and reactionary character of all bourgeois and petty-bourgeois nationalist movements, which are ultimately all subordinated and dependent upon imperialism.

Objectively, it represents a powerful contingent for the emerging wave of struggles of the working class. However, the working class must organize its struggles consciously on the basis of its international character and connections to fulfill its historical interests of ending capitalist exploitation, inequality, and war. Only the International Committee of the Fourth International fights for this internationalist and socialist program.
Six workers remain sacked from Royal Mails Prenton Delivery Office in the Wirral. Eleven posties were initially suspended for taking their legally entitled tea breaks at two local pubs. Their treatment is part of a wave of company victimisations, with reports confirming that Royal Mail is targeting workers to enforce its brutal restructuring agenda.

Prenton Delivery Office entrance

Over the weekend, postal workers in the area described an intimidating atmosphere in the Prenton office since last months ending of the national dispute. The Communication Workers Unions (CWU) pro-company deal with Royal Mail has greenlighted a major new offensive against postal workers.

One postal worker said, This all started as lads used to go to Caernarvon pub for a break and management said you cant do that. What happened then was some lads went to the Swan pub car park and then they got suspended. A day later they did the same and got told by a manager they werent allowed back at the office. Then they all got suspended and got a letter saying they couldnt congregate again. Then some lads went to McDonalds and then they used that against them too. The McDonalds is on the same road as the Prenton delivery office.

This all started with the revisions [cost-cutting/productivity measures imposed by management during the strike]. They said you cant go off route for your break. They took eight walk duties out of the office and obviously it wasnt working, so mail was getting delayed. They needed someone to blame. You used to be able to go anywhere on your break.

I think there will be industrial action if they dont get their jobs back.

Asked if the CWU was defending the sacked workers, the same worker said, The union havent done anything to help. They backed up Royal Mail and said you cant congregate, you couldnt meet up, and thats what got them sacked. The union wont do anything for us.

Another postie said, I think most of them have been sacked and three are back in there now. Another one got suspended again. But even before they got sacked, another three workers got sacked at that DO.

The atmosphere now in the office is bad, theres bullying. The workload you cant meet, and they will bully people to do it. Anyone could be sacked because of the workload. The atmosphere is bad on all levels.

Everyone will appeal who lost their jobs and if not, by the sound of it there will be industrial action and the office will go on strike. The way it is now, individual offices go on strike, not the whole of Royal Mail.

Another postie said, I think people who got sacked were targeted. Theyve not gone after everyone. They are picking out people who are going against the grain. They want people there who will do whatever management ask them to.

Asked for his thoughts on the CWU, he replied, The CWU are not standing up to any of this. The CWU said on the deal [reached with Royal Mail to end the strike] vote yes, vote yes, vote yes. Now as soon as the deal has gone through, they started acting like theyre on our side again now, saying, This deal wasnt what we asked for and trying to play the good guys again.

Another postal worker told WSWS, We dont know what is happening with the ones who got the sack. We would like to know but we dont get told anything.

At the shopping centre in Prenton, NHS midwife Kay told WSWS she supported all the sacked postal workers: The people have to go on strike so they get their jobs back, but the unions are there in name only, nothings being done, theres no fight.

We used to think [former prime minister] Thatcher was bad, but this is far worse. Its an unfair world.

Its inspiring to see some people take on society. I support any striker whose conditions are being eroded while the rich are getting richer.

The Postal Workers Rank-and-File Committee is calling for a public defence campaign to reinstate the sacked Prenton posties. Their fate cannot be left in the hands of the Employment Tribunal. Less than five percent of all unfair dismissal cases before the Employment Tribunal result in reinstatement.

The rank-and-file at Prenton DO must take control, drawing up plans for a work-to-rule and other measures, including strike action, to win their colleagues reinstatement. This must be linked to a political and industrial campaign by Royal Mail workers everywhere for the unconditional reinstatement of all 400 workers sacked or suspended during the dispute.

We urge postal workers to read and distribute the Postal Workers Rank-and-File Committee statement, Reinstate all victimised reps and postal workers! End the CWU-Lord Falconer conspiracy at Royal Mail!

Do you have any information about the sackings at Prenton Delivery Office or the victimisations of postal workers elsewhere at Royal Mail? Get in touch using the form below. Your anonymity will be protected.
On August 23, the billionaire Russian oligarch Yevgeny Prigozhin died in a crash of his private jet under unexplained circumstances. The crash also killed a significant section of the senior leadership of the Wagner Group, the Russian private military contractor which Prigozhin headed, including its military commander, Dmitry Utkin.

Prigozhins airplane was leaving Moscow for St. Petersburg and had been underway for 30 minutes when it experienced a catastrophic failure resembling an explosion, causing the aircraft to plummet from the sky.

Formed in 2014, the Wagner Group has played a major role in Russian military and diplomatic operations, providing not only fighters for the wars in Syria and Ukraine, but also private military services for governments throughout Africa and the Middle East. Prigozhin and Wagner led the successful Russian effort to capture the Ukrainian city of Bakhmut, known in Russian as Artyomovsk, in May.

Two months before the crash, Prigozhin, previously a long-time ally of Vladimir Putin, carried out a coup attempt with his Wagner forces, marching from Ukraine and occupying the city of Rostov-on-Don before wheeling toward Moscow and demanding the dismissal of the army leadership. Prigozhins coup attempt was the most open expression so far of ongoing, intense infighting within the Russian state apparatus and ruling class.

To start with the obvious, no one knows at this point why the plane crashed or who was responsible. There are as many possibilities as one would find in an Agatha Christie novel. Even the cause of the crash has not been established. However, given who Prigozhin was, it is reasonable to weigh ones assumptions toward the conclusion that this was not an accident.

Assuming that the crash was the product of deliberate action, this then raises the more complex question of who was responsible. The US media and government immediately rushed to proclaim that Prigozhin was assassinated by Russian President Vladimir Putin. Following a tried and true method, an anonymous UK government official told the Wall Street Journal that the most likely suspect was the Russian government. Other major newspapers, including the New York Times and the Washington Post, proclaimed this supposition as an established fact.

US President Joe Biden declared that he was not surprised at the death of Prigozhin, adding, Theres not much in Russia that Putin doesnt have a hand in.

Of course, this is not a possibility that can be discounted out of hand. It cannot be excluded that the crash that killed Prigozhin is the aftershock of what occurred in the attempted coup exactly two months ago.

But the question must be asked, if Putin sought to eliminate Prigozhin, why would he do it in this way?

While publicly denouncing the leaders of the coup as traitors, Putin engineered a rapprochement with Prigozhin, dropping criminal charges and appearing alongside him at public diplomatic functions.

Why kill him with a bomb on a plane, along with 10 other individuals, rather than simply arrest and prosecute him? If Putin was so concerned about the possibility of a second coup, why did he allow Prigozhin to move about freely between Moscow and St. Petersburg, and even leave the country and direct his forces in Africa, where they aided in the military coup in Niger?

Even considering the possibility that a Russian actor was involved, Putin would hardly be the only suspect. Prigozhin had many enemies, both in the regular military, whose leadership he had targeted in the coup attempt, and among the Russian billionaire oligarchs.

But if one asks the question, Who benefits? there are many non-Russian suspects, from Ukraine to the United States, or even France and Britain. Over the past several years, the Wagner Groups operations in both Ukraine and Africa have seriously undermined the geopolitical interests of the imperialist powers.

This would help to explain Ukrainian President Zelenskys cryptic remark to journalists, When Ukraine asked the people of the world for help with airplanes, this isnt what we had in mind.

While universally proclaiming that Putin was responsible for the death of Prigozhin, leading figures in the US foreign policy establishment and media welcomed the consequences that the assassination would have. In a column responding to the death of Prigozhin, Alexander Vindman, a former National Security Council official and leading US war propagandist, declared that the assassination could speed peace in Ukraine. The elimination of Wagner, Vindman wrote, weakens the nationalist wing pushing for a more aggressive warand may ease pressure on Putin for a continued, expanded war.

In fact, the demise of the warlord is very good news for Ukraine, writes Maksym Skrypchenko, president of the Transatlantic Dialogue Center, a pro-NATO Ukrainian think tank. The death of Prigozhin, alongside Wagner groups infamous first commander Dmitry Utkin, will likely provide Ukrainian forces with a battlefield advantage for months to come.

With Prigozhin out of the picture, Russian public opinion could also turn against Putin, he added hopefully. If we are reading the signs right, the mysterious plane crash that eliminated Russias mercenary boss may someday be remembered as the climax of the elaborate tragedy that is Putins Ukraine invasion.

US media commentators likewise pointed to the significant role of Wagner in Russian military and diplomatic relations. The Wagner group was the forward operation arm of the Kremlin, military and political, in Africa, said NBC correspondent Richard Engel. I saw it myself in the Central African Republic, the embassy there was Wagner, it was Wagner that was on patrol in the street. I asked the governor about it, I asked the president, you said we needed protection, we wanted Russian security protection, and they sent Wagner.

Noting that Prigozhin had spent his final days traveling to African countries, where he had helped turn the mercenary group into one of Russias most powerful and recognizable assets on the continent, the Times wrote that in the span of a few years, Wagner became a security partner for some autocratic governments in Africa, upending power balances in already fragile regions and gaining its own political influence in the process Wagners forces helped strengthen embattled governments and warlords in countries including the Central African Republic, Mali, Libya and Sudan.

In other words, the presence of Wagner in Ukraine, but even more so in Africa, was a serious obstacle to the military and geopolitical aims of the imperialist powers in these regions.

Another point: In an article headlined The Godfather in the Kremlin, the Wall Street Journal declares that the assassination highlights the evolution of Russia into a mafia state. The question must be asked, however, if the assassination of leading political figures makes Russia a mafia state, what does that make the United States? Or Ukraine?

Prigozhins death follows a series of assassinations targeting leading pro-war figures inside Russia carried out by Ukrainian forces, including Daria Dugina last August and Russian military blogger Vladlen Tatarsky in April. After Duginas killing, the New York Times was quick to claim that there was no evidence that the attack was connected to the war in Ukraine. Yet only two months later, in October, the Times reported, the U.S. believes Ukrainians were behind an assassination in Russia.

Just three days before the assassination of Dugina, Times correspondent Andrew Kramer published an article praising pro-Ukraine assassination squads operating inside Russia, in an article entitled, Behind Enemy Lines, Ukrainians Tell Russians You Are Never Safe.

Following a drone attack on the Kremlin earlier this year, Secretary of State Antony Blinken was asked about the United States position on an alleged effort to assassinate President Vladimir Putin. Blinken declared, These are decisions for Ukraine to make about how its going to defend itself.

Earlier this year, a trove of leaked Pentagon documents revealed the immense concern of Pentagon strategists over Wagners growing influence in Africa, listing a dozen potential coordinated US and allied disruption efforts against Wagner, including kinetic options involving the assassination of its leadership.

None of these realities are discussed in the media coverage of Prigozhins death, which is driven largely by the propaganda needs of the US government. Facing growing popular opposition to a disastrous war, the US media seeks to do everything possible to demonize Russia and the Putin government.

But words have consequences. This concerted propaganda effort has a logic of its own, becoming itself a factor in the escalation of the war.
In a ruling issued Monday, US District Court Judge Tanya Chutkan set March 4, 2024 as the date for the trial of ex-president Donald Trump on federal charges of election interference in the period leading up to the fascist mob assault on Capitol Hill on January 6, 2021.

Ex-president Donald Trump arrives at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, Thursday, Aug. 3, 2023, in Arlington, Virginia. Trump pleaded "not guilty" on four felony charges related to his efforts to overturn the 2020 election. [AP Photo/Alex Brandon]

The decision formalizes the intersection of the criminal cases against Trump relating to his efforts to overturn the 2020 election, and the 2024 presidential election campaign, in which Trump is the frontrunner for the Republican nomination. The trial would begin one day before Super Tuesday, the most important of the primary election contests, where more than a third of all delegates to the Republican National Convention will be selected.

At a 90-minute hearing in her Washington D.C. courtroom, the judge heard arguments from lawyers for Trump and for Department of Justice special counsel Jack Smith, who had Trump indicted on four felony counts August 1. The prosecution argued for a January 2, 2024 trial date, while Trumps attorneys proposed an April 2026 date, a transparent effort to postpone the trial until after the election and give Trump the opportunity, should he win the election, to order the case shut down.

Judge Chutkan largely sided with the prosecution, setting a trial date only two months later, and she was clearly provoked by Trumps conduct outside the courtroom and by the arguments and demeanor of his chief lawyer, John Lauro, inside it.

Trump has denounced both Smith and Chutkan on social media, calling them crazed, deranged, biased and corrupt, statements that would have put any ordinary defendant in jail for contempt of court. Chutkan has rejected such a sanction, indicating it would be inflammatory, but warned Trump that the more he vilified the legal proceeding the sooner the trial date would be set, to minimize the effect of his rhetoric on the potential jury pool.

Lauro denounced the proposed January 2, 2024 trial date as a recipe for a show trial, not a speedy trial, only to have the judge set a date only two months later.

He argued throughout the hearing that Trump was being prosecuted to assist the reelection campaign of President Joe Biden. This prosecution provides an advantage to these prosecutors boss, Lauro said. This is a political prosecution. Were going to have to raise that issue squarely with Your Honor and do it justice.

The Trump attorney said he would file a motion next week based on the authoritarian premise that Trump was immune to the charges since the indictment covers the period when he was in office as president. He also said there could be a motion charging selective prosecution, claiming that the charges were brought by the special prosecutor as retaliation for the federal investigation of Hunter Biden, the presidents son, on tax and corruption charges.

Prosecutor Molly Gaston made the argument that an early trial date was particularly necessary because of Trumps nonstop social media attacks on the court process. On a near-daily basis, the defendant posts on social media about this case, Gaston said. He has publicly disparaged witnesses, he has attacked the integrity of the court and of the citizens of the District of Columbia from whom the jurors will be selected.

The judge, who is African-American, was reportedly stung by a court filing by Trumps lawyers which included the obscene and provocative comparison of the billionaire ex-president to the Scottsboro Boys, the nine young black men framed up on rape charges in Jim Crow Alabama in the 1930sbecause they were rushed to trial only a week after their indictment. Trump would have seven months, she said, and there was hardly any similarity in the two cases.

The judges action sets up an extraordinary conflict between the criminal prosecution of Trump and his campaign for the presidential nomination of the Republican Party in 2024. The trial would begin only one day before the Super Tuesday primaries in which a huge number of delegates to the Republican National Convention will be chosen.

The trial would likely extend throughout the month in which the vast majority of these delegates are chosen in primary contests in 25 states. On March 5, 15 states hold primaries to select 865 delegates. From March 12-23 there are primaries in 10 more states and Puerto Rico to select 521 delegates. A total of 1,386 delegates, well over a majority, would be selected while Trump was spending much of his time in a Washington D.C. courtroom.

This prospective calendar only underscores the deepening crisis of the entire US political system. The setting of the trial date likely ensures that the Republican-controlled House of Representatives will retaliate by launching an impeachment probe of President Biden, with the goal of teeing up a vote to impeach him even before the trial of Trump begins.

The impeachment probe is based on claims that Biden personally profited from his son Hunters business dealings in Ukraine and China when he was vice president in the Obama administration. While Hunter Biden certainly cashed in on his fathers status, particularly his role as head of US policy in Ukraine, the Republicans have not yet produced evidence of money flowing directly to Joe Biden.

The Republican Party hopes to use impeachment hearings as a counterweight to the prosecution of Trump, although the fascist ex-president faces far more serious charges, including two indictments-- the federal indictment before Judge Chutkan and the indictment by the state of Georgia--for actions related to the attempt to overturn the results of the 2020 election.

Judge Chutkan said she had considered the conflict in timing between the case in her courtroom and three other felony cases being brought against Trump, but that it was not her task to sort out conflicts with the political calendar. Mr. Trump, like any defendant, will have to make the trial date work regardless of his schedule, she said, adding that there is a societal interest to a speedy trial.

Prosecutors have indicated that they will require four to six weeks to present their case, and Trumps lawyers have made a similar estimate for the defense case. That would extend the proceeding until the end of May, setting up potential conflicts with two other cases. Trump is to be tried March 25, 2024 in Manhattan on charges of covering up hush money payments to porn actress Stormy Daniels. His trial in Florida on federal charges of withholding and concealing secret documents is set to begin on May 20, 2024.

No trial date has yet been set in the Georgia case, which is the most complex to schedule because it involves Trump and 18 codefendants and a variety of charges. Trump alone faces 13 felony counts.

Several of the codefendants, including lawyers Kenneth Chesebro and Sidney Powell, who played key roles in the conspiracy to use fake electors to block the certification of Bidens election victory by Congress, have effectively broken with Trump by seeking an early trial.

In response to their efforts, Fulton County Prosecutor Fani Willis and state judge Scott McAfee initially set a trial date of October 23, less than two months away, for the cases against Chesebro and Powell, with Willis suggesting she would be ready for a trial of all 19 defendants on that date.

Other defendants are seeking to have their cases severed from those of Trump and their codefendants, while still others have claimed that their actions in relation to the fake electors were directly ordered by Trumpin effect, providing evidence against him.
The Atlanta city administration of Mayor Andre Dickens and the city council are spearheading an openly undemocratic drive to suppress a referendum on their determined drive to build a militarized police training center dubbed Cop City. This facility is being built in partnership with giant corporations including Coca-Cola, Norfolk Southern Railroad, Home Depot, Delta Airlines and UPS, all donating millions of dollars to fund it.

Since the Democratic mayor and Democratic-controlled city council first approved the plan in September 2021, numerous demonstrations and various other forms of protests have taken place. So determined has been this opposition that it has garnered national and international attention.

Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens speaks during a news conference at City Hall in support of "Cop City" on Tuesday, January 31, 2023, in Atlanta. [AP Photo/R.J. Rico]

In response, both the local Democrats and the Republican state government led by Governor Brian Kemp have unleashed massive repression, which led to the police killing of an unarmed and peaceful protester, Manuel Teran, on January 18 of this year.

In the latest effort to block the plan, community groups involved in organizing protests announced a signature drive for a city-wide referendum a couple of months ago. This referendum drive was announced a day after the city council voted by an 11-to-4 margin on June 6 to allocate a massive $67 million in taxpayers funds to build and run Cop City.

The referendum is to ask voters directly whether they want to approve or repeal the 2021 ordinance that authorizes the city to lease city-owned land to the Atlanta Police Foundation (APF) for building this so-called public safety training center. The APF is a corporate front created by major companies such as Coca-Cola, Delta Airlines and Home Depot, who are well aware that Cop City is being built for their benefit.

This amount was more than double the $30 million the city had previously announced as its share of the $90 million the facility is projected to cost. It is certain that all of the cost-figures coming out the city are deliberately understated and it is not even clear now as to how much the building, if constructed, will eventually cost the city both directly and indirectly.

The petition drive, conducted by hundreds of volunteers, revealed widespread opposition to the massive new police facility, with 104,000 signatures, a huge number in a city with only 500,000 residents. (Far more live in the adjoining suburbs). This is nearly double the 58,203 signatures required to get the referendum on the ballot.

City officials immediately announced an onerous verification process for the signatures, a mechanism used by both Republicans and Democrats as tactic to disenfranchise voters. Many Republican state governments are doing this to block abortion rights referendums. The Atlanta Democrats are carrying out a similar attack on democratic rights.

According to a memorandum issued by the city, the signature verification will be a four-step process. It states each page will be individually scanned and [once] individually designated and scanned, the completed lines will be reviewed to determine a) whether the name and other information present identifies and corresponds to a qualified Atlanta voter.

It also claimed that this step-by-step verification process [will be] conducted by independent third parties to ensure a process that is fair, inclusive, and transparent.

It is not at all clear who these independent third parties are to be. Ultimately it is the city officials who will undoubtedly determine the outcome.

Moreover, the city also did not state as to how long this verification process is going to take, raising serious suspicions that they will more than likely use this to block the referendum from appearing on the November ballot.

After this blatant roadblock was announced by the city, the Stop Cop City activists announced that they will, for the time being, withhold submitting the signature to the city. They stated that they do not trust the citys verification process.

The city has also made it clear that it is determined to crush opposition no matter what. In a federal court filing in July, made on behalf of the city by the elite Atlanta law firm Bondurant Mixson & Elmore, the attorneys argued that any referendum on Cop City would be invalid and futile.

In the court filing the attorneys also stated that even if voters choose to revoke the lease authorization ordinance, this would not invalidate the lease agreement itself. This means that the city will contemptuously ignore the democratic will of the voters and proceed with its existing plans.
According to the Railway and Transport Workers Union (EVG), a narrow majority of 52.3 percent of its members accepted the arbitration offer from national rail carrier Deutsche Bahn. Almost two-thirds of the members took part in the ballot. The EVG national executive board only announced this at a press conference on Monday afternoon, a full three days after the conclusion of the ballot.

EVG press conference on 29 August. From left: Negotiators Loroch and Ingenschay, EVG chair Burkert [Photo by Screenshot Videoubertragung]

The first reaction of many EVG members and railway workers was disbelief and mistrust. The prevailing mood among was against the offer and in favour of strike action.

But even if the ballot result is correct, and this needs to be verified, it is a vote of no confidence in the EVG and an expression of huge opposition. Although the EVG exerted massive pressure, and the federal executive committee recommended acceptance, not even a third of those entitled to vote voted in favour of the conciliation result. Just under a third rejected it and another third did not participate in the ballot.

It can be assumed that many voted yes because they believed no better result could be achieved with this union, and not because they supported the outcome.

The EVG had made it clear from the beginning that it did not want an all-out strike, despite members clear determination to fight. It merely held two warning strikes, which meant heavy wage losses for the participants, with the EVG sitting firmly on the strike fund and not paying out strike money.

When a ballot on a full strike could no longer be postponed, the EVG executive board went into arbitration with Deutsche Bahn (DB). It then combined the strike ballot with a vote on the conciliation outcome. In this way, it wanted to ensure that 75 per cent--and not only 50 percent as in a simple vote--were required for a rejection and a decision to strike.

At the press conference on Monday, the EVG executive board tried to gloss over the result and present it as a great success. The lower wage groups would receive a strong increase, the EVG claimed, which in some cases would be over 50 percent.

In reality, this applies at most to a few who have not even received the legal minimum wage of 12 euros an hour so far, such as the less than 2,000 DB Security employees in eastern Germany who work for absolute low wages.

Ulrich Rippert, who attended the press conference on behalf of the WSWS, asked why the executive board did not openly admit that a ten-month pay freeze had been agreed before the first stage of the increase of 410 per month came into effect. In response, negotiator Kristian Loroch ranted about inevitable compromises. He cynically remarked that he was not aware of any union ever having succeeded in getting its full demands accepted.

Despite all the arithmetic tricks of the Executive Board, the fact remains that the arbitration result means a massive reduction in real wages. Asked by a journalist about the average increase in wages, EVG negotiator Cosima Ingenschay gave a figure of 14.2 percent.

Even though it is not clear how she arrived at this, it does not even cover the wage losses from the last collective agreement. In 2021, the EVG had made enormous concessions to Deutsche Bahn during the coronavirus pandemic. With a contract term of 24 months, it agreed on a salary increase of only 1.5 percent. However, according to the Federal Statistical Office, consumer prices rose by 17.1 percent in the same period, and the price increases for food, energy and rents were much higher.

The 14.2 percent mentioned by Ingenschay does not compensate for this. And there is no additional money at all for price increases during the term of the new contract, which is for 25 months. During this period, prices are likely to rise again by considerably more than 10 percent.

An average railway worker will therefore earn at least 15 percent less in real terms in 2025 than in 2020. For some wage groups, this loss in real wages may be somewhat smaller, but it will be all the higher for others. At the press conference, the EVG leaders called this a solidarity agreement, but in reality, it serves to divide the workforce.

The real crux of the agreement is not only the reduction in real wages, but the rotten deal that the EVG apparently made with Deutsche Bahn management. The latter had to make certain financial concessions for some wage groups because the poor pay simply meant that no more staff could be found. In return, the EVG agreed to an increase in levels of exploitation, although working conditions are already unbearable in many areas.

For example, the EVG has agreed to longer working hours in several areas:

 The working hours of all DB bus drivers will be increased by one hour per week.

 For on-board catering, 15-hour shifts are possible up to twice a week, and with the consent of the works council even more than 15 hours and three times a week.

 For DB Netze AG, annual working time can be increased to up to 2,192 hours, which means that 42-hour weeks become permanently possible.

 Washing and changing times will be replaced by small lump sums of money, which means a disguised increase in working time and thus an additional reduction in wages.

It can be assumed that the EVG leadership has promised other things under the table and signaled that it will turn a blind eye if railway workers have to continue to work two or three times the normal hours because of staff shortages.

The new contract shows that the EVG apparatus does not represent the interests of its members, but those of the DB corporation. The DB board is backed by the government; after all DB is fully owned by the federal government. As it has already done at Deutsche Post and in the federal and municipal public services, the government is pushing to impose severe cuts in real wages.

The government is using the war in Ukraine, which is being fueled by NATO, for a massive rearmament offensive costing hundreds of billions. It is supported by all parties in the Bundestag (federal parliament) and the trade unions. At the same time, the corporations and banks are showered with more and more cash gifts, which are recouped by cutting social spending and wages.

Meanwhile, the class struggle is accelerating around the world. In the US, 300,000 railway workers threatened to paralyse traffic last year. They were stopped by the intervention of the Biden administration, which issued a legal ban on strikes. In Britain, railway workers have been fighting for 18 months to defend their pay and conditions, only last week the Rail, Maritime and Transport (RMT) union announced the de facto end of the strike.

The struggle at Deutsche Bahn has not ended with the strike ballot, it has only just begun. In order to stop the further erosion of wages and working conditions and to fight for improvements, workers themselves must take the initiative. All experience shows that the EVG apparatus is impervious to pressure from below. The same applies to the rival rail union GDL. Structures must be built that are controlled by rank and file workers themselves, not the union bureaucrats.

The founding of the Rail Action Committee was an important step in this direction. Such action committees are being formed all over the world, including among auto workers, workers at Royal Mail and railway workers in the USA, Canada, and Germany. These committees are united under the umbrella of the International Workers Alliance of Rank-and-File Committees (IWA-RFC).

The Rail Action Committees next task is to expose the new contract and the methods by which it was pushed through. The outcome of the ballot and the way it was achieved must be scrutinised. Workers are not bound by a contract about which they were obviously deceived.

The struggle to defend living standards, wages, jobs, and conditions can only succeed if it is organised, and politically consciously led. This is the most important lesson from the DB contract bargaining. Therefore, the Rail Action Committee must be strengthened and expanded.

Its aim is to unite all workers--EVG, GDL and non-union members--who are prepared to oppose the never-ending attacks and represent the interests of the workforce.

We call on all railway workers to contact us by Whatsapp at this number +49-163-337 8340 and register using the form below.
The catastrophic crash of a US military plane, which killed three American Marines on Sunday and injured 20 more, has underscored the conduct of extensive and almost continuous military exercises in northern Australia.

The Osprey, a tiltrotor transport aircraft, favoured because of its versatile takeoff and landing capabilities, crashed on Melville Island, around 100 kilometres north of Darwin, the capital of Australias Northern Territory.

Boeing MV-22B Osprey. [AP Photo/Susan Walsh, Pool, File]

The governments involved, in Australia and the US, have claimed that the causes of the crash remain unknown. There have been several accidents involving Ospreys over recent years, raising speculation of a mechanical fault.

The official statements and almost all the media coverage have said the Marines were engaged in a routine training exercise. What that entailed has been left entirely unelaborated.

In fact, it appears that the Marines were participating in Predators Run, annual military exercises involving the US and Australian militaries, together with contingents from Indonesia, the Philippines and East Timor.

The general downplaying of the exercises was contradicted by an article in the Murdoch-owned Australian. In passing and without further comment, it described Predators Run as one of the biggest multilateral combat simulations undertaken in the Territory.

Unusually, the Defence Department did not issue a press release promoting the exercise before it began, and there was virtually no coverage in the corporate media. The one exception was an article in the Northern Territory News, which gave some indication of the scale and focus of Predators Run.

The article said the operations would involve 2,500 troops, operating in Darwin Harbour and around the Tiwi Islands, which include Melville. The entire population of Darwin is just 130,000. The Tiwi Islands, home primarily to indigenous people, have just 2,350 residents.

The troops were to include 750 Australian personnel and 500 US marines, with the remainder made up of contingents from the participating regional militaries.

Australian Army Brigadier Nick Foxall told the Northern Territory News: Predators Run is going to be a very important exercise for us. Were moving from a land-based organisation to a maritime-based organisation As a result, well be moving into that environment, operating around the Tiwi Islands and in Darwin Harbour.

The article noted the new strategies underpinning the Australian armys operations. That was a reference to the Defence Strategic Review (DSR), endorsed earlier this year by the Albanese Labor government, which emphasised a shift in the armys prospective operations from land-based fighting, such as in the Middle East and Afghanistan, to littoral and maritime combat.

US Marines Commanding Officer Colonel Brendan Sullivan said this new focus made the Northern Territory (NT) an ideal training ground. Sullivan stated: The thing that makes littoral operations so challenging is that it occurs in the air, on the land and in the sea at the same time. And thats what operating here in the NT and the Tiwi Islands offers us.

The clear implication is that the exercises involve simulations of a conflict in the Indo-Pacific, which would inevitably involve maritime and air combat, together with land operations centred around control of islands and coastlines. That is in line with the US-led war drive against China, which is supported entirely by the Australian government.

Predators Run followed last months Talisman Sabre exercises. Also largely based in the Northern Territory, the biannual war games were the largest in history, involving 34,000 troops from 14 nations. In addition to testing advanced missiles and developing logistics networks, Talisman Sabre included a mock invasion of the Australian territory of Norfolk Island in the Pacific Ocean.

There is every reason to suspect that the Tiwi Islands are playing a similar role in the Predators Run operation.

Talisman Sabre also resulted in casualties, with four Australian soldiers dying after their Taipan helicopter crashed into waters off the Queensland coast.

In reporting on the latest Marine deaths and recalling the fatalities during Talisman Sabre, the New York Times noted: [I]n both cases, the aircraft went down during the kinds of joint exercises that have become more common, more intense and more complicated in recent years as the United States has stepped up its military tempo in the Indo-Pacific in an effort to deter Chinese aggression in the region.

The gratuitous and false reference to Chinese aggression typifies how the US has justified its own massive military build-up in the Indo-Pacific, aimed at preparing for war against Beijing. But the Times clearly indicated that the accidents during Talisman Sabre and Predators Run are bound up with the nature of the exercises themselves. These are not routing training exercises but combat simulations, as the Australian described them, with the dangers they inevitably entail.

The extent of the war preparations, and northern Australias centrality in those plans, were highlighted in a lengthy article on the United States Naval Institute (USNI) website. It noted: What began with 250 American Marines and sailors at Australias Top End 12 years ago has grown into a Marine air-ground task force of 2,500 that spends its seven-month rotation spread across Australia and the western Pacific.

The article cited Colonel Brendan Sullivan, head of the Marine deployment, who said it is at the cutting edge of Force Design 2030 We are actually realizing Force Design 2030 capabilities right now in a forward-deployed unit west of the international date line.

Force Design 2030 is a plan outlined in 2020 to prepare the Marines to be a key force for a war with China. In the 2020 document, Marine command explicitly noted the new US defence doctrine that great power competition, centred on Russia and China, not terrorism, was the primary threat to US national security.

As a consequence, the Marines would need to operate alongside the navy in far-reaching combat operations. Force Design 2030 sketched out a series of requirements clearly aimed at preparing such a war. They included developing enhanced Marine strike capabilities, the ability to operate within enemy range of fire, and the capacity to sustain combat operations for an extended period. A list of insights in the chilling document begins with: The individual/force element which shoots first has a decisive advantage.

The document featured as one of its key recommendations: We will need to conduct full-scale, empirically based experimentation of the future force in realistic maritime and littoral terrain. Our experimentation must be deliberate and iterative, informed by both threat developments and technology advancements. As Sullivans comments make plain, that is now occurring in northern Australia.

Speaking on Talisman Sabre, Sullivan told the USNI: We are practicing at the end of that, seizing key terrain and exercising key terrain, and then exercising all-domain command and control. We are leveraging and feeding joint and maritime sensor-and-effector networks, (and) thats enabling us to execute fires and sea control activities.

The USNI added that Predators Run would be the culminating exercise as the unit becomes a littoral combat brigade.

All this is occurring behind the backs of the population. Without even the fig leaf of a democratic mandate, the Labor government has transformed a substantial swathe of the continent into a testing ground for war with China. That underscores the fact that if conflict does break out, the government and the entire political establishment will support the US war to the hilt.
Last Friday, Nigers military junta in Niamey gave French Ambassador to Niger Sylvain Itte a 48-hour deadline to leave the country. The deadline to expel the French ambassador comes after Nigers August 3 cancellation of five military cooperation agreements signed between 1977 and 2020. It ordered on August 14 that all French troops in Niger, which is a former French colony, leave the country by early September.

French soldiers disembark from a U.S. Air Force C130 cargo plane at Niamey, Niger base, on June 9, 2021. [AP Photo]

The letter issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Niger appointed by the junta indicated that the competent Nigerien authorities had decided to withdraw their approval from Mr. Sylvain ITTE and to ask him to leave Nigerien territory within forty-eight hours. The ministry said the decision to expel the ambassador was in response to actions taken by the French government against Nigers interests. This included the ambassadors refusal to respond to an invitation to meet with Nigers new foreign minister.

An ultimatum against the French ambassador was quickly rejected by the French Foreign Ministry in Paris which has repeatedly stated that he does not recognize the authority of the Nigerien junta. The putschists do not have the authority to make this request, the ambassadors approval coming only from the legitimate elected Nigerien authorities, the French government said.

Yesterday, French President Emmanuel Macron gave a speech at a yearly conference of French ambassadors in the Elysee presidential palace. Macron declared that Itte would stay in Niger and that military action would be prepared against Niger. He declared that the junta in Niamey has no authority to tell Itte to leave their country. He also hailed the responsible policy of African countries in the ECOWAS (Economic Community of West African States) that might invade Niger at the behest of Paris and Washington.

He praised plans for supporting diplomatic action, and once it is agreed upon military action, by ECOWAS in the framework of a partnership.

Macron also implicitly criticized opposition to plans for French-led military interventions against Niger and military regimes in neighboring Mali and Burkina Faso. The weakness that some had towards previous putsches have encouraged regional tendencies, he said.

In reality, the putsches are the product of over a decade of bloody NATO wars across Africa and, in particular, across much of Frances former colonial empire in Africa. After NATOs 2011 war on Libya in 2011, France launched in 2013 a nine-year military occupation of Mali, during which it posted thousands of troops in Niger and Burkina Faso. Amid mounting anger, strikes and protests against the French military presence, French troops were forced to leave Mali last year.

Governments that worked closely with French military operations in Mali, Burkina Faso and now Niger have fallen amid growing popular anger, replaced by military regimes that have sought out ties with Russia and the Wagner Group militia also active in the Ukraine conflict.

Now, amid the NATO war with Russia in Ukraine, there are growing threats of a major escalation in Africa. France in particular is pushing for a war in which ECOWAS heavyweights like Nigeria, Ghana or the Ivory Coast would provide ground troops for a NATO-led war to take back Mali, Niger and Burkina Faso. Paris, Washington and other NATO powers have backed ECOWASs call to reinstate Nigerien President Mohamed Bazoum, whom the junta ousted in a coup on July 26.

On August 24, the day before Niger called to expel Itte, the foreign ministers of Burkina Faso and Mali, Olivia Rouamba and Abdoulaye Diop, respectively, went to Niamey to meet with junta leader General Abdurahamane Thiani. They then signed agreements authorizing the defense and security forces of Burkina Faso and Mali to intervene on Nigerien territory in the event of an attack.

Last week, representatives of ECOWAS held talks with General Abdourahmane Tchiani in Niamey. The meeting came a day after officials of the ECOWAS states said they were ready to intervene militarily to reinstate Bazoum.

While the ECOWAS delegation was in Niamey, Tchiani claimed he would hold power for a maximum of three years before returning power to an elected regime. The delegation insisted that the plan proposed by the military junta was unacceptable, and that Mohamed Bazoum should be reinstated. Thus, the negotiations ended in failure.

The junta refused to reinstate Bazoum. General Tchiani warned ECOWAS against any intervention in Niger, stating: But let us be clear. If an attack were to be undertaken against us, it will not be the walk in the park some people seem to think.

On August 26, thousands took to the streets of Niamey and gathered at Nigers General Seyni Kountche Stadium, chanting anti-French slogans, after French officials denounced illegal military rulers in Niger. They hoisted Nigerian, Algerian and Russian flags.

Participating in this demonstration was Ramato Ibrahim Boubakar. We have the right to choose the partners we want, and France must respect this choice, we have never been free for 60 years, he said.

There are calls for further protests in front of the French military and air force base in Niamey starting on September 3, to demand the withdrawal of French troops from Niger.

Algeria, which borders Mali and Niger to the north, has opposed any foreign military action in Niger since the July 26 coup. After the military regime in Algiers allowed French warplanes to use its airspace to bomb targets in Mali during the 2013-2022 war in that country, it suddenly shifted its position 180 degrees. It has announced that it will not grant French fighter bombers the right to overfly Algeria. French military flights that take four hours via Algeria to Niger or Mali are to be forced to take a 10-hour detour.

Nigers junta, which ordered the French ambassador to leave the country, has not issued similar orders to the ambassadors of the US, Italy and Germany. A US State Department spokesman confirmed that no such request has been made to the US government, according to Reuters.

On August 7, as French imperialism prepared ECOWAS for military intervention in Niger, Washington sent Assistant Secretary of State Victoria Nuland to hold talks with the junta. The stakes for France in Niger are much higher than for Washington. ... This is a psychological and strategic defeat for France, said Cameron Hudson, a former White House National Security Council official focused on Africa, to Politico magazine.

New interimperialist tensions are rising, in particular, between France and the United States. After the Niger putsch, France fears being overtaken by its US ally, wrote Le Figaro, citing frustration by French officials at the fact that the junta leaders plan to let US troops but not French troops remain in Niger. With allies like that, we dont need enemies, said an official of the French Foreign Ministry.

Above all, however, the NATO powers are moving to intervene militarily in Africa and escalate the war with Russia they are already waging in Ukraine. Amid threats of NATO and ECOWAS intervention, military tensions are surging in the region. All divisions of the Niger, Burkina Faso and Mali armies have been placed on alert. About 10,000 volunteers in Niger have joined the army and received basic training. Reports suggest that Russias Wagner Group is training them.

The decisive political issue is the unification of the growing movement of African workers and oppressed rural people against the French and NATO wars with workers in the NATO countries, Russia, Ukraine and beyond in an international movement of the working class against imperialist war.
In this article, we will be taking a look at the 30 worst countries in the world to live in. To skip our detailed analysis, you can go directly to see the 5 worst countries in the world to live in.

Even though the world has made significant advancements and the standards of living globally have increased substantially over time, this improvement has not been distributed equally among different nations, as evidenced by the worst countries in the world to live. While there may still be some advanced nations in the world, the vast majority of the global population resides in developing economies, and many such countries are still struggling to provide basic necessities including infrastructure, opportunities and even safety.

Many of the worst countries in the world are located in Africa, which gives credence to racists who believe that other races are inferior in intellect, and hence, unable to improve their situation. Of course, the truth is always more nuanced; history has shown how various European nations colonized many countries in Africa and in Asia, looting valuables for centuries, something from which such economies are still recovering. For example, India is the country with the highest number of emigrants in the world. However, several centuries ago, India was a very prosperous nation, only for the British to take over the region after initially arriving for trade, and subjugating the local population for centuries until its independence in 1947. The resulting three countries in the next few decades, India, Pakistan and Bangladesh, despite strides made by them in recent years, especially in India, are still not even close to being as prosperous as they were centuries ago. Hence, it is also not surprising that all three countries feature among the nations with the biggest number of emigrants in the world, and have been in that list for decades.

30 Worst Countries in the World

Damian Ryszawy/Shutterstock.com

In fact, it is because of these economic setbacks that many countries face which result in the educated population trying to escape for better opportunities. The reasons may vary; in many countries, residents are forced to evacuate as a result of repeated violence and war, whether internal or external, as seen in countries such as Syria, Ukraine and Afghanistan, with the latter also considered to be the most dangerous country in the world. On the other hand, people from other countries such as India, Pakistan, South Korea and other developing nations go for better earning opportunities and to enjoy a higher standard of living, not to mention better access to public facilities and infrastructure.

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Separately, there are regions which are incredibly prosperous with several countries in Europe and the Middle East among the nations with the highest GDP per capita, with the former's riches as a result of industrialization (including the largest economies in Europe) and subsequent economic prosperity while the latter's wealth mainly comes from massive fossil fuel deposits. However, it is important to remember that Europe is home to 44 countries, and not all of them enjoy very high standards of living. In fact, Belarus and Ukraine are currently considered to be among the worst countries to live in Europe, not least because of Russia's war with Ukraine which has resulted in massive destruction and Belarus being ruled by a person basically considered to be a dictator and facing huge sanctions from the West for supporting Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

All of this raises the question of whether it's worth it to invest in the worst countries in the world. Unfortunately, the answer isn't a simple yes or no. Let's go back to India for a moment. It may have the highest number of emigrants in the world, but it isn't among the worst countries in the world, considering our metrics. It is also demonstrating consistently high economic growth, and has incredibly competitive educations institutions and universities, resulting in a high number of highly qualified candidates. Because of this, many of the top companies in the world, have manufacturing facilities in India, which allows for lower production costs, some of which include BMW, Volkswagen and Harley-Davidson, Inc. (NYSE:HOG), while it is also home to major IT hubs. All of these reasons make it alluring to invest in Indian ETFs such as iShares MSCI India ETF (CBOEUS:INDA), which has a return of nearly 5% YTD. On the other hand, there is also a risk when investing in a developing economy because things can go south fast too. A huge blow to India recently has been Foxconn withdrawing from a semiconductor joint venture in India worth $19.5 billion, even as Indian Prime Minister Modi has focused on making India a semiconductor making hub.

Similarly, many of the worst countries in the world also have tremendous potential for investment, with many African countries in particular being home to vast reserves of natural reserves. This is why there is a good chance of huge growth and some of the fast growing economies in Africa have actually recorded double-digit growth which shows massive potential. However, if you look at some of the worst performing economies in the world, with really low growth rates, you'll notice several European countries in the list. This is because advanced economies are generally stable and yearly growth is low, and hence expectation of return, while relatively much safer, is also quite limited. Of course, there is a much greater risk investing in the worst countries in the world where a lack of infrastructure and corruption can often derail a nation's economy without any warning, especially nations engaged in internal or external wars. Despite this, the motivation of earning huge returns results in significant FDI in such countries, as evidenced by a study by David Maher from the University of Salford, using Colombia as a case study.

Methodology

To determine the worst countries in the world to live in, we first considered our ranking of the poorest countries in the world, countries with the highest emigration rates, countries with the lowest life expectancy and the most dangerous countries in the world. We then used the average ranking of all these articles to calculate a score for each country to determine the worst nations in the world right now, ranking from highest score to lowest. Of course, with the right decisions for the future, many of them could potentially improve their economics situation as well as standard of living, and move out of our list.

30. Malawi

Poorest countries ranking: 12 Life expectancy ranking: 33 Emigration rate ranking: 131 Dangerous countries ranking: 92

A large percentage of Malawi's population lives in extreme poverty while an average life expectancy of just under 63 years indicates a lack of access to healthcare.

29. Gambia

Poorest countries ranking: 6 Life expectancy ranking: 29 Emigration rate ranking: 161 Dangerous countries ranking: 70

Gambia is easily among the poorest countries in the world but low emigration rates have allowed it to be ranked much higher among the worst countries globally.

28. Liberia

Poorest countries ranking: 7 Life expectancy ranking: 21 Emigration rate ranking: 113 Dangerous countries ranking: 119

Liberia relies heavily on foreign investment and assistance, and a healthy GDP growth rate of around 5% each in 2021 and 2022 indicate that it may be an investable country.

27. Tanzania

Poorest countries ranking: 35 Life expectancy ranking: 53 Emigration rate ranking: 123 Dangerous countries ranking: 35

While Tanzania isn't in the bottom 30 in any one criterion, consistently low ranking in all criteria has condemned it to our list.

26. Tajikistan

Poorest countries ranking: 18 Life expectancy ranking: 81 Emigration rate ranking: 92 Dangerous countries ranking: 55

One of the poorest countries not in Africa, Tajikistan is known for government corruption while historic civil unrest has also impacted its ability to improve economically.

25. Kyrgyz Republic

Poorest countries ranking: 23 Life expectancy ranking: 70 Emigration rate ranking: 84 Dangerous countries ranking: 53

Kyrgyz Republic saw a steep decline in its economy of 8.4% in 2020 after being badly impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic but has since recovered pretty well, with a GDP growth rate of 6.2% in 2021 and 7% in 2022.

24. Rwanda

Poorest countries ranking: 17 Life expectancy ranking: 54 Emigration rate ranking: 83 Dangerous countries ranking: 76

Even though Rwanda has done brilliantly to recover from the Rwandan genocide just three decades ago, poverty is still a major issue in the country, while it has also been considered among the repressive nations in Africa.

23. Benin

Poorest countries ranking: 31 Life expectancy ranking: 16 Emigration rate ranking: 104 Dangerous countries ranking: 76

Despite having a relatively stable economy especially in the last two decades, Benin is still among the worst countries in the world.

22. Nepal

Poorest countries ranking: 33 Life expectancy ranking: 66 Emigration rate ranking: 33 Dangerous countries ranking: 85

Despite selling permits to willing tourists for tens of thousands of dollars to climb the Mount Everest, Nepal is still among the poorest countries in the world. Nepal has still posted healthy growth rates of 4.8% and 5.6% in 2021 and 2022 respectively.

21. Zimbabwe

Poorest countries ranking: 49 Life expectancy ranking: 14 Emigration rate ranking: 86 Dangerous countries ranking: 66

Zimbabwe's economy contracted by 7.8% in 2020, one of the worst economic performances in Africa after the Covid-19 pandemic hit, but rebounded by over 8% the following year.

20. Guinea

Poorest countries ranking: 27 Life expectancy ranking: 10 Emigration rate ranking: 109 Dangerous countries ranking: 64

Guinea was one of the few African countries which showed a healthy growth rate of 4.9% in 2020 despite the pandemic even as most countries in the continent, and across the world, saw their economies contract.

19. Lesotho

Poorest countries ranking: 10 Life expectancy ranking: 3 Emigration rate ranking: 133 Dangerous countries ranking: 46

Political instability and a lack of economic development have hampered Lesotho ever since its independence, and low economic growth rates have continued for decades now, making it one of the worst countries in the world.

18. Uganda

Poorest countries ranking: 30 Life expectancy ranking: 32 Emigration rate ranking: 89 Dangerous countries ranking: 32

Uganda has seen its economy remain relatively stable at least in the past three decades, but is still classified among the worst countries in the world, mainly due to high poverty levels and a life expectancy of just under 63 years.

17. Haiti

Poorest countries ranking: 47 Life expectancy ranking: 35 Emigration rate ranking: 50 Dangerous countries ranking: 45

Considered to be among the most dangerous countries in the world, Haiti was also impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic with its economy continuing to contract every year since.

16. Togo

Poorest countries ranking: 19 Life expectancy ranking: 22 Emigration rate ranking: 112 Dangerous countries ranking: 22

High levels of poverty and low levels of economic growth have ensured a lack of progress for Togo, though its economic growth of over 6% in 2022 indicates potentially a better future for the nation.

15. Niger

Poorest countries ranking: 16 Life expectancy ranking: 23 Emigration rate ranking: 120 Dangerous countries ranking: 12

Niger had one of the highest GDP growth rates in 2022, recording an 11.5% growth rate in 2022. However, the country's military recently pulled off a coup while Europe and the U.S. support the deposed President, which is likely to negatively impact its economy.

14. Ethiopia

Poorest countries ranking: 40 Life expectancy ranking: 45 Emigration rate ranking: 65 Dangerous countries ranking: 19

Ethiopia has been in the midst of a severe civil war in its Tigray region, resulting in hundreds of thousands of deaths, not to mention billions in damages. However, Ethiopia has still seen its GDP grow by more than 5% in each of the past 19 years.

13. Sudan

Poorest countries ranking: 26 Life expectancy ranking: 47 Emigration rate ranking: 43 Dangerous countries ranking: 44

Sudan is still home to ongoing atrocities, with the Human Rights Watch urging the U.S. to step in. This has reflected in the country's economy too, with GDP contracting every year since 2018.

12. Burundi

Poorest countries ranking: 1 Life expectancy ranking: 25 Emigration rate ranking: 99 Dangerous countries ranking: 28

Burundi's economy has been struggling for a while, with the nation particularly impacted by the 2015 - 2018 unrest.

11. Chad

Poorest countries ranking: 14 Life expectancy ranking: 1 Emigration rate ranking: 129 Dangerous countries ranking: 8

Chad was one of the worst affected African nations as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic, with a lack of implementation of rule of law and poor infrastructure not helping things.

10. Syria

Poorest countries ranking: 8 Life expectancy ranking: 104 Emigration rate ranking: 18 Dangerous countries ranking: 17

Syria has the highest number of refugees in the world as it is home to a proxy war being fought between economic giants, and Syria's economy has nosedived since, and in the last decade, its economy has contracted in most years.

9. Yemen

Poorest countries ranking: 21 Life expectancy ranking: 41 Emigration rate ranking: 74 Dangerous countries ranking: 9

Yemen, like some other nations among the worst countries in the world, is home to one of the biggest humanitarian crises, with its economy struggling since 2011.

8. Central African Republic

Poorest countries ranking: 2 Life expectancy ranking: 4 Emigration rate ranking: 118 Dangerous countries ranking: 13

While some of the worst countries in the world also provide a change for significant returns, Central African Republic is unlikely to be one of these countries in the last few years, with its economy contracting by 36.4% in 2013 and has grown by less than 1% in the last two years.

7. Myanmar

Poorest countries ranking: 41 Life expectancy ranking: 50 Emigration rate ranking: 26 Dangerous countries ranking: 14

Myanmar is one of the countries with the highest refugees in the U.S., and the country is going from bad to worse after the military carried out a coup and has been committing atrocities unimpeded ever since. This also led to Myanmar's economy contracting by a massive 17.9% in 2021.

6. Mozambique

Poorest countries ranking: 13 Life expectancy ranking: 15 Emigration rate ranking: 59 Dangerous countries ranking: 26

Mozambique saw its economy contract in 2020 amid the pandemic, cementing its position among the worst countries in the world. However, the security situation has continued to deteriorate in 2021 and 2022 because of violence in its Cabo Delgado province. A growth rate of 4.1% during 2022 may indicate some positive potential in the nation, but for it to be a good proposition for foreign direct investment, the security situation needs to improve dramatically.

Click to continue reading and see the 5 Worst Countries in the World to Live in.

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Disclosure: None. 30 worst countries in the world is originally published on Insider Monkey.
After a three-year pause, the Detroit Water and Sewerage Department (DWSD) declared this month that it will resume residential water shutoffs for households behind on their billsa decision that will leave over 700 homes without water.

The temporary moratorium on the shutoffs was enacted in March 2020 as a response to the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic. It was extended in December 2020 through December 2022 with the claim by Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan that a solution would need to be in place by 2023.

Despite Duggans claim in 2020 that as long as COVID-19 remains a health concern, no Detroit residents should have concerns about whether their water service will be interrupted, the moratorium was allowed to expire on December 31, 2022, based on the false claim made by Democrats and Republicans alike that the pandemic is over.

DWSD announced that the shutoffs will begin with residents who owe the most and who live in areas where middle- and high-income earners live, based on US Census data. This means over 700 households are at risk for losing access to water. DWSD has not determined which day next week that the shutoffs will begin.

In January of this year, federal judge Denise Page Hood heard arguments to extend the moratorium as plaintiffs sought a temporary injunction against lifting it. The class action lawsuit, Taylor v. City of Detroit, involves six named plaintiffs, against the city, the DWSD and its director, Gary Brown.

Detroit residents seeking assistance to prevent shutoff of their water.

Opening arguments to extend the moratorium asserted that COVID-19 has not vanished and that in any case [t]he concern regarding shutoffs pre-dates COVID-19. The suit made note of the implications of cutting off water access for households, including threats to health of affected families, dehydration, infectious diseases and inability to provide medically necessary meals or infant formula.

The lawsuit stated that its aim was for the specific purpose of permanently ending water shutoffs and to bring that into effect in a specific waynamely by making water rates affordable for all residential water customers. After the hearing, Judge Hood said she would announce her decision on whether DWSD can resume cutting off water to city residents by Friday, January 27. Seven months later, it appears that no ruling has been officially issued.

Judge Hood was nominated by President Bill Clinton to a seat on the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan in 1994. She became Chief Judge on December 31, 2015, and served in that role until February 2022. She assumed senior status in May 2022 and was succeeded in March 2023 by Judge Jonathon J. C. Grey.

Prior to the shutoff freeze, DWSD had been cutting residents off from water due to lack of payment since 2014. From 2014 to 2019, over 141,000 households were disconnected. A six-month moratorium was sought and denied in 2014, with US bankruptcy Judge Steven Rhodes throwing out the motion declaring that city residents have no fundamental right to water servicessetting a precedent that was cited in the 2023 lawsuit.

DWSD continued to charge for water during the emergency response to the pandemic. If residents could not pay, their service remained connected while they racked up debt. According to Brown, 60,000 Detroit households owe an average of $700 each. Brown told the Detroit News, Just in the last three days, we got 500 calls from households that have received final warnings.

The citys affordability plan, Detroit Lifeline or the 10/30/50 Plan, was launched in July 2022 as a means to ration water to the poorest residents while increasing monthly payments for most shutoff victims. These plans had little advertising, despite DWSD stating that they went door-to-door to register the eligible households. Plaintiffs of the January lawsuit argued that many residents are not aware of the program or cannot apply due to barriers involving technology, internet access or required identification papers.

Of the 100,000 households that are apparently eligible for the program, just 14,000 had applied in January, leaving approximately 86,000 susceptible to service interruption. The remaining delinquent households qualify for the 10/30/50 program, which charges residents 10 percent of the overdue balance to get service restored instead of the regular 30 percent charge, and then 50 percent of any outstanding balancein addition to arrears on any current bills. These residents still face the threat of service interruption in the future if they cannot pay a bill.

The American Civil Liberties Union of Michigan brought the lawsuit to a federal court. Mark P. Fancher, staff attorney for the Racial Justice Project of the ACLU in Michigan, told the Michigan Chronicle, DWSD and the city, generally, have already taken steps in what we regard as the right direction. Citing the Lifeline program, he said that the ACLU went forward with a preliminary injunction not because the group opposes the idea of the plan, but because the moratorium was scheduled to expire at the end of 2022.

Since the ruling that residents have no enforceable right to free and affordable water, the ACLU is now arguing that the return to water shutoffs is premature and the Lifeline program needs to be refined and its loose ends tied up.

Brown, the DWSD director, scapegoated the households behind on bills, telling the Detroit Free Press earlier this month, When we dont receive the amount of money that we budgeted for the year through collections, it becomes bad debt that gets passed on to rates in next years budget, so it exacerbates the increase in rates for the next year and that hurts everybody.
Do you work on the West Coast docks? Tell us what you think about the new contract. All submissions will be kept anonymous.

ILWU casual longshoremen's dispatch hall, Wilmington, California

A week has passed since voting ended for a six-year contract between 22,000 West Coast dockworkers in the International Longshore and Warehouse Union (ILWU) and the Pacific Maritime Association (PMA).

Since the voting concluded, there has been no official update on the results from the ILWU, leaving dockworkers in the dark as to the result. Dockworkers in contact with the World Socialist Web Site have shared vote totals on proposed amendments from ILWU Local 13 in Los Angeles, which indicated 4,505 voted in favor and 1,838 against.

According to Local 13, the ILWUs Coast Balloting Committee will convene on Thursday, August 31, to announce and certify the results from each local. This delay raises significant questions on the outcome of the vote.

Whether or not this contract has passed, the entire process has been illegitimate and undemocratic. Rank-and-file dockworkers have been completely shut out from the closed-door negotiations, which began last May in San Francisco. While every dockworker is bound by the terms of the agreement, roughly one-third of the workforce, identified as casual, have no voting rights at all.

Even for dockworkers who can vote on the contract, many only saw the contract for the first time in the last two weeks. It is unclear how many dockworkers across the three tiersA, B and casualactually got a copy of the contract.

Throughout the entire negotiation process, the union has worked deliberately to keep its members in the dark. It kept silent except for a few press releases confirming that there would not be a strike as long as the PMA did not lock out workers.

After months of radio silence from the ILWU bureaucracy, dockworkers began to take matters into their own hands earlier this year. This past spring and summer, wildcat strike actions forced major shutdowns at the Ports of Los Angeles, Long Beach and Seattle.

Terrified that these actions would soon be joined by British Columbia dockworkers in Canada who were preparing to strike, President Biden dispatched acting Secretary of Labor Julie Su to San Francisco in June. Within 48 hours of Sus arrival, ILWU President Willie Adams announced a tentative agreement to the membership.

While Canadian dockworkers courageously went on strike for 13 days, the ILWU officials and with the Biden administration continued to enforce a strike ban, while accepting Canadian-bound cargo diverted to US ports.

In Canada last month, the government shut down the strike and imposed an agreement on the dockworkers, who had already voted to reject it. Canadian politicians, enraged by the impact of the strike, have floated legislation intending to outlaw strikes by infrastructure workers.

If workers have voted down the US contract, it is possible that the ILWU bureaucracy is now buying the Biden administration more time by in order to prepare an intervention against workers using the Taft-Hartley Act, which has previously been invoked in 1948, 1971 and 2002 on the West Coast. Such a delaying tactic was employed by the bureaucracy of the rail unions last year to buy Congress time to pre-emptively ban a rail strike.

Everythings top secret. ... Were always left in the dark, John, an A-man, recently told WSWS reporters. Theyre [the union officials] not really up front. And they say, Well, we dont know, we have to look into that, and its just kind of the secrecy on everything.

When I was a casual, John continued, the group before me went in or became full-time at 18 months [before being hired in]. In my group, we had to do 11 years.

One time we had this meeting, and this [official] gave this speech, and people were asking, Well, whats going on? And the response was, Well, I dont know.

Basically its like, Hey, I got my big house. Ive got plenty of cash. Im living comfortably. Thats all that matters. I dont give a damn about you. I dont give a damn that youre losing your house. I dont give a damn that your marriage is breaking up, whatever is going on. Its not important to me, as long as Im good.

While the union keeps information from its members, what has been revealed in the tentative agreement falls far short of workers demands.

The six-year contract contains a 32 percent wage increase, or a little more than 5 percent per year. The tier system, which forces thousands of dockworkers to labor for years on end before they even get the opportunity to vote on a contract or are able to get health insurance, remains in place. It is unclear what, if any guarantees there are against job losses created through automation.

The $70 million hero bonus offered to workers is a drop in the ocean compared to the billions in profits the major shipping companies have doled out to shareholders in the form of dividend payments since the onset of the pandemic.

Last week FreightWaves reported that Germanys Hapag-Lloyd, the fifth largest shipping line in the world, has paid out $19.5 billion in dividends since 2021. While the company only paid out $747 million to shareholders in 2021, in 2022 the company boosted this to $6.56 billion and just this past May issued a $12.2 billion payout, or the equivalent of 174 hero bonuses.

Maersk, the second largest carrier in the world, paid out $1 billion in dividends in 2021, $6.8 billion in 2022 and $10.9 billion earlier this year, for a COVID-19 era total of $18.7 billion. Freightwaves also examined profits from Zim and Cosco, which totaled $4.6 billion and $13.2 billion respectively. Just these four shipping companies combined to hand out some $56 billion to shareholders.

We were awarded hero pay by the federal government, and they [the PMA] are holding on to that, John said. So we heard that its $70 million, that it could be up to $140 million, but we dont know what the real amount of money is and whos holding it or whats going on.

I think they [the PMA] are holding it back, and they were trying to get us to sign the contract by saying, Okay, were not going to give you this money [hero pay] until you sign this contract. Yeah, thats not right because it was issued to us, given to us by the federal government. Why does the PMA have the right to hold it back and determine [what to do with it]?

The direct intervention by the government shows workers are in a political struggle against the entire corporate-controlled setup. The ports are not only a major economic chokepoint, with some 9 percent of US GDP passing through the Ports of Los Angeles/Long Beach alone, they are also critical to moving military equipment overseas to battlefields in Ukraine against Russia or in the South China Sea against China. A strike would seriously jeopardize the ruling elites plans for war.

In order to countermand the union-government-corporate conspiracy, workers must form independent rank-and-file committees in every section of the working class, including dockworkers, autoworkers, postal and logistics workers and other key industries.
The following statement was issued by the International Youth and Students for Social Equality (US), the student and youth organization of the Socialist Equality Party, as schools and universities reopen.

In the last days of August and first days of September, millions of children, teenagers and college students in the US are returning to classrooms under the shadow of a spiraling series of crises, including: the escalation of the US-NATO war against Russia over Ukraine, another surge of the COVID-19 pandemic, the developing climate disaster and the rise of fascist forces in the US and internationally.

All are expressions of an underlying crisis, the crisis of the capitalist system. Youth are confronted with the basic fact that, if they are to have a future, they must fight for it. This fight necessarily means a fight against capitalism and for socialism.

Stop the war in Ukraine!

The war in Ukraine, now halfway through its second year, has already claimed hundreds of thousands of lives. The Ukrainian counteroffensive, directed by the US and NATO powers, has turned into a bloodbath.

The IYSSE has opposed the invasion of Ukraine by Russia, but we have done so from the socialist left, not the imperialist right. The claims in the media that this war was unprovoked and that the Biden administration is sending tens of billions worth of weapons to Ukraine to defend democracy and help the Ukrainian people are lies.

The historical origins of this fratricidal war lie in the 1991 dissolution of the Soviet Union by the Stalinist bureaucracy, which restored capitalism, gave rise to the oligarchic regimes in Ukraine and Russia, and opened up a 30-year period of unending wars launched by US imperialism. Since 1991, NATO has aggressively expanded to Russias borders, and in 2014, the US backed a far-right coup in Kiev that brought to power a pro-NATO government which spent the next seven years preparing for war against Russia.

The aim of the imperialist powers in this war is not the defense of democracy but the carve-up the entire region, whose vast resources they need to prepare for an even larger conflict with China. This is why generations of Ukrainians are now being sent into the type of mass slaughter unseen in Europe since the end of World War II. From the standpoint of imperialism, their lives are disposable.

The war in Ukraine marks a new stage in the lurch by the imperialist powers towards a new world war and threatens a nuclear catastrophe.

The IYSSE opposes the reckless escalations and provocations of US imperialism, as well as the reactionary nationalism and chauvinism of the oligarchic Putin regime. Along with our comrades in Europe, Russia, Ukraine and throughout the world, we are fighting to end this war by building an antiwar movement of youth and workers, based on the unification of the working class in Russia, Ukraine and internationally.

War abroad means war at home

The war in Ukraine signifies a frontal assault on the social and cultural rights of the working class after three decades of relentless attacks on living standards. Between the proclamation of the war on terror in 2001 and the beginning of the war in Ukraine, the US has spent over $8 trillion on wars. For 2024, the Biden administration is planning a record trillion-dollar war budget.

The money for these wars is being plundered from the working class. In 2020, for the first time, federal funding for the giant weapons manufacturer Lockheed Martin surpassed that for the US Department of Education. While trillions are spent on war, in schools there is a severe shortage of teachers, buildings are dilapidated and students lack elementary learning equipment. In higher education, the arts and humanities are under attack, and large layers of academic workers are being impoverished.

West Virginia University students lead a protest against cuts to programs in world languages, creative writing and more amid a $45 million budget deficit outside Stewart Hall in Morgantown, West Virginia on Monday, August 21, 2023. [AP Photo/Leah Willingham]

The destruction of the right to education and culture goes hand in hand with the militarization of high schools and universities. At the high school level, working class youth are being lured into the military, which will use them as cannon fodder, or else being driven prematurely into the workforce. At the universities, billions are being poured into research devoted to weapons development and the advancement of US imperialisms predatory interests.

Young people must fight to stop the war in Ukraine.

No to nationalism and militarism! For the unity of the Russian, Ukrainian and American working class!

No money for war! Instead, fund free access to high-quality education and culture for all!

No to the militarization of high schools and universities!

For a global effort to end the pandemic!

The US and large portions of the world are now in the midst of a new surge in COVID-19 cases, refuting the lies by capitalist politicians and the media that the pandemic is over. With all COVID-19 mitigation measures dropped, workers and youth are woefully unprepared for the spread of the virus, which continues to evolve into new and dangerous variants.

As schools were opening in the US, over 600,000 people were being infected every day and the hospitalization rate had doubled. Already, school districts in Kentucky and Texas have been forced to shut down schools because of mass infection.

Worldwide, excess death estimates indicate that 24 million people have died from a disease whose spread could have been stopped in early 2020 had world governments launched a globally coordinated program of elimination. Thousands continue to die each day, and hundreds of millions are suffering from Long COVID.

The claim that COVID-19 is not dangerous for children and young people is a lie. In the US alone, it is estimated that at least 2,305 children have died, making the coronavirus one of the leading causes of death among children. The known impact of Long COVID in children is extremely serious, including neurological, psychiatric and cardiovascular complications. With each re-infection, the risk of Long COVID increases.

The fact that an entire generation of young people is being subjected to repeated mass infection with a virus that threatens their immediate and long-term health is a historic crime.

Similarly, no serious measures are undertaken to halt the catastrophic development of global warming. Bidens response of no comment when asked about the thousands of Maui fire victims speaks to the true regard that the capitalist class holds for human life. In all of its policies, its guiding principle is: profits before lives.

What has been a public health disaster for the working class has been a financial bonanza for the rich. According to the 2023 Oxfam report, Survival of the Richest, since 2020, the richest 1 percent have captured almost two-thirds of all new wealth, nearly twice as much money as the bottom 99 percent of the worlds population. Billionaire fortunes are increasing by $2.7 billion a day.

The pandemic can and must be stopped.

Public health above private profits!

For the mass allocation of resources to fund COVID-19 treatment and prevention globally!

Fight against fascism! Defend democratic rights!

Two-and-a-half years after the fascist coup attempt on January 6, 2021, the danger of fascism and dictatorship has only grown. The Republican Party is being transformed into an openly fascist party, and Donald Trump is using the election campaign to develop an extra-parliamentary fascist movement. Across the country, Republican politicians and sections of the state apparatus are waging a campaign of censorship and book banning in public schools, designed to create an atmosphere of fear and intimidation among educators and students.

The danger of fascism is not rooted in the individual Donald Trump. The attack on democratic rights and the rise of fascism is an international phenomenon. The move to authoritarian forms of rule comes not from below but from the top, led by sections of the ruling class and the state apparatus. Like the eruption of imperialist wars, the rise of fascism is rooted in the crisis of the capitalist system. The record levels of social inequality that mark capitalist society in America and throughout the world are incompatible with the maintenance of democratic forms of rule.

Workers and young people must place no confidence in Biden and the Democratic Party. Following January 6, the Biden administration focused on cultivating its alliance with the Republican Party to gut social programs at home and wage war against Russia and China abroad. In Ukraine, the Democratic Party is supporting and arming the fascists of the Azov Battalion. In the US, it has been complicit in the attacks on democratic rights.

To the blatant racism and increasingly fascistic ideology of the Republican Party, the Democrats counterpose the promotion of identity politics and racialist falsifications of American history, as in the New York Times 1619 Project, to disorient and divide the working class.

From the standpoint of the Democratic Party and the American ruling class as a whole, the principal danger is not fascism, but the development of an independent movement by the working class against capitalism.

Fight against fascism! Defend democratic rights!

Break with the Democratic Party and capitalist politics!

Turn to the working class and Trotskyism, the Marxism of the 21st century!

Capitalism threatens the future of mankind and the planet itself, but there is a way forward. The IYSSE is fighting for the future by turning to the leading and decisive revolutionary force in the worldthe international working class.

The working class is not only an oppressed class, it is also a revolutionary class: It produces all the wealth in society. While the ruling class is increasingly turning toward war, fascism and dictatorship, the international working class is on the move against it. Major struggles of the working class have emerged across the US, Canada, Latin America, Europe and Asia.

With the dissolution of the Soviet Union by the Stalinist bureaucracy in 1991, an ideologist for the ruling class, Francis Fukuyama, proclaimed the end of history. By this he meant that all of the insoluble contradictions of capitalism had been resolved, that the questions of fascism and socialism had been settled and that there was no alternative to liberal capitalism.

At the universities, various forms of anti-Marxism were promoted as left or even Marxist, such as postmodernism and the theories of the Frankfurt School, which reject the scientific study of history and society. Meanwhile, the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) and similar organizations internationally falsely present themselves as left-wing or socialist, while rejecting the revolutionary role of the working class and functioning as nothing more than factions of the capitalist parties and supporters of imperialist war. The objective reality confronting youth today refutes all of these anti-Marxist theories. The international class struggle is surging, and the fundamental questions of the 20th centuryimperialist war, fascism and socialist revolutionare again on the agenda in the 21st century. They can only be understood and fought out based on an understanding of the history of the 20th century and, in particular, the history of the Trotskyist movement.

The ruling class celebrations of the final triumph of capitalism were always based on a colossal falsehood: the equation of Stalinism with socialism. In reality, Stalinism represented not socialism and Marxism, but the violent nationalist reaction against the 1917 October Revolution. The Trotskyist movement emerged a century ago in October 1923, when Leon Trotsky formed the Left Opposition in a struggle against Stalinism to defend the internationalist program of the October Revolution.

The International Youth and Students for Social Equality (IYSSE) is the youth wing of the International Committee of the Fourth International, which was founded 70 years ago, in November 1953. For a protracted historical period, the International Committee defended the program of world socialist revolution and the political independence of the working class against Pabloism and other revisionist tendencies that sought to liquidate the Trotskyist movement and rejected and undermined the struggle for the socialist revolution by the working class. Today, it is the sole representative of Marxism and socialism.

To fight against capitalism and for socialism today means to fight for Trotskyism. We urge all youth at high schools and colleges: Contact us today!

Take up the study of Trotskyism, the Marxism of the 21st century!

Turn to the working class!

Fight for socialism!

Build the IYSSE!
Last week the World Socialist Web Site wrote to Charles Falconer, a partner at law firm Gibson Dunn, requesting information about the legal review he is heading into the sacking and suspension of hundreds of union reps and other postal workers during the Royal Mail dispute.

The Falconer Review was established by Royal Mail and the leadership of the Communication Workers Union (CWU) in February during closed door talks at conciliation service ACAS sponsored by former TUC leader Sir Brendan Barber.

Left, Lord Falconer of Thoroton. Right, CWU General Secretary Dave Ward. [Photo by Official portrait photo, UK Parliament / CC BY 3.0

The WSWS put several questions to Falconer about the review. While the deadline for referring sackings and suspensions was May 26, the CWU has published no information to the membership about the progress of cases.

At least 400 workplace reps and postal workers were sacked or dismissed during the dispute. But Ward has previously stated that only those directly related to the dispute will be reviewed. Just 200 cases have been referred to Falconer by the CWU. Ward told members in April that some of those disciplined had crossed the line and would not be defended by the union.

Hundreds of reps and other postal workers were victimised by Royal Mail as part of brutal restructuring aimed at transforming the business into a parcel-led delivery service to compete with Amazon.

Workers are being sacked and suspended on the most trivial pretexts and via trumped-up charges. Examples include being dismissed for using the word scab on social media. CWU reps have been suspended and sacked for challenging unagreed revisions to work practices and for defending members against management bullying i.e., for doing their job as a rep.

Victimised workers have told WSWS they are facing huge personal hardship. With charges of gross misconduct on their employment record, many have been forced to accept low-wage casual work to make ends meet. By agreement with the CWU, only those dismissed on or after April 5, 2023, are eligible for back pay from the point of their dismissal. (See Letter to Branches June 20, 2023)

On August 15, WSWS wrote to the CWU requesting basic information about the fate of hundreds of victimised workers. We asked how many cases Lord Falconer had begun reviewing, and how many of these had resulted in either reinstatement, or in suspensions and dismissals being upheld. WSWS received no reply to our enquiries.

On August 21, WSWS wrote to Falconer. Among the questions we asked him were allegations put to us about payment for legal work and the progress and outcome of cases:

Dear Mr Falconer,

I am a reporter for the World Socialist Web Site doing background research on the plight of CWU reps and other postal workers suspended or sacked by Royal Mail during the recent dispute. With hundreds of postal workers reportedly suspended or dismissed, their status is a matter of public interest, especially to the wider labour movement.

My questions are as follows:

How many cases have currently been referred to the Falconer Review?

What percentage of cases have been referred as suspensions?

What percentage of cases have been referred as dismissals?

Can you confirm that Royal Mail is being billed for all legal work by the Falconer Review?

Can you confirm that Sir Brendan Barber has or will receive referral fees for work referred to the Falconer Review?

For how many cases has the CWU submitted evidence bundles?

How many cases have you begun reviewing?

How many cases have an outcome?

How many cases have resulted in reinstatement?

How many cases have resulted in suspension or dismissal being upheld?

My publication deadline is this Wednesday 12 noon.

Sincerely,

Laura Tiernan

Reporter

World Socialist Web Site

Despite following up with a phone call to Falconers law firm and his personal secretary, WSWS received no reply.

As the Postal Workers Rank-and-File Committee explained in its statement last Friday, the sackings and suspensions at Royal Mail are the largest mass victimisations since the miners strike of 1984-85. It is an orchestrated campaign eliminating anyone viewed as an obstacle to the companys brutal corporate strategy.

For months, CWU leader Dave Ward claimed there would be no talks and no end to the dispute until all victimised reps were reinstated. But in April, the CWU unveiled the Business Recovery, Growth and Transformation Agreement, ending the dispute on terms dictated by the company.

CWU officials hailed the agreement as a victory because it protects their lucrative partnership with Royal Mail. The deal was rammed through in a ballot campaign dominated by lies, disinformation and dirty tricks against the membership by Ward, his deputy Andy Furey and the CWU postal executive.

Appendix 7 of the agreement set out the terms of reference for Falconers review, with the CWU agreeing that All decisions on the conduct of the Review will be for him [Lord Falconer] to decide in his absolute discretion.

The reviews stated purpose is to provide an independent assessment and adjudication on whether conduct cases arising from the dispute have been fairly handled taking into account relevant policies including the National Conduct Procedure Agreement between RMG and CWU and Unite CMA (Code of Conduct), Royal Mails Business Standards, and any relevant policies on bullying and harassment.

Royal Mails Code of Conduct, co-authored by the CWU in 2015, defines misconduct so broadly that it amounts to a blank cheque for victimisation.

There is nothing impartial about the Falconer Review. It is headed by an individual whose loyalty to corporate and state interests is long established. Falconer gave legal advice to the National Coal Board during the 1984-85 miners strike, helping to boost scab union the UDM. As a senior cabinet minister in the Blair Labour government, he was reportedly key in overcoming legal objections to Britains 2003 invasion of Iraq which subsequently killed 250,000 Iraqis.

But Ward, Furey and the CWU postal executive have no qualms about handing him absolute powers to decide postal workers fate.

Victimised workers have told WSWS they regard the Falconer Review as a smokescreen to get their cases off the table while the company and CWU implement their rotten agreement against the entire workforce.

After a sacked rep publicly challenged the CWUs silence over cases before the Falconer Review, he was deleted from the unions social media accounts. On August 8, Forgotten Postman replied to the CWUs glowing depiction on Twitter/X of a National Briefing to reps after the dispute, writing: Posting about solidarity while abandoning about 200 reps and members who are still clueless as to their fates. @CWUnews @DaveWardGS do you feel any shame about this?

One week later Forgotten Postman shared the CWUs response: a screenshot of the unions social media account with the words @CWUnews blocked you.

Would you like to share information or offer your views about Royal Mails workplace victimisations? If so, please submit using the form below. Your anonymity will be protected.
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If youve managed to save $5,000, congratulations  youve made it to the middle of the pack. According to the TransAmerica Center for Retirement Studies, the median American adult has exactly that amount in non-retirement savings.

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That means youre just a few dollars away from being better off than half the country, but what you do and dont do with your $5,000 will determine if you ever get there. If youve reached this impressive financial milestone, heres your to-do list of non-negotiables.

Calculate Your Ideal Emergency Fund Size

Eric Mangold, founder of independent financial planning firm Argosy Wealth Management, agrees with most experts that everyone should have three to six months income set aside in emergency savings.

The reason these funds are there is for what the name implies  emergencies, he said. If the A/C goes out, your car breaks down unexpectedly, the roof has a leak, etc. These are the types of emergencies where you need to act quickly.

By that standard, $5,000 isnt enough for even the slimmest of emergency funds for anyone who makes more than $1,667 per month. In that case, dont do anything except reexamine whether your bank is taking your savings as seriously as you are and giving your money a chance to reach its potential.

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Give Your $5,000 the Home It Deserves

There was a time in the recent past when you had to deposit well over $5,000 to get even a decent savings yield  but not anymore. CIT Bank, for example, offers a wealth-compounding 5.05% APY for balances of $5,000 and up.

To illustrate why now is the time to start getting serious about where you keep your cash, consider the difference between the yield youd earn at CIT Bank vs. the national average savings account APY of 0.42%. Compounded daily, 5.05% would leave you with an extra $259 after just one year. After four years, your $5,000 would grow to $6,119.

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If you settled for the national average, on the other hand, a year with your bank would earn you just $21. After four years, youd have only $5,085.

Squeeze Even More out of Your Savings

If youre willing to tie up some of your $5,000 for three or more months, banks and credit unions will compensate you with an even higher yield.

Consider diversifying your savings, said Sam Dallow, accounting, finance and tax expert at Counting King, a business funding and tax firm. This may seem like a minefield at first, but it can be a great way of making the most out of your money. While you might have started with a basic savings account, consider exploring higher-yield options like certificates of deposit (CDs) or low-risk investment platforms. This helps your money grow more effectively.

For example, Alpena Alcona Area Credit Union offers an industry-high 7.19% APY on a seven-month CD with a $500 minimum deposit. Many other institutions are paying yields in the high fives.

If You Have Anything To Invest, Invest in Debt Reduction

If you have anything left over, or youre willing to cut your emergency fund a little thin, you probably want to take a chunk of your savings and put it to work building wealth in the stock market. Thats good thinking, but if you owe money to a bank or credit card lender, youre not quite there yet. Even with good investments, youll never get returns high enough to make up for what youre losing to finance charges.

Starting with a savings of $5,000, the priority should be addressing high-interest debts, said Leo Smigel, entrepreneur and founder of the financial and algorithmic trading site Analyzing Alpha. Its not the glitz and glamour of investing, but tackling these debts offers a tangible return by curtailing accrued interest.

Smigel told the story of a friend who dove into stock investing upon reaching the $5,000 mark. Concurrently, a lurking credit card debt with 18% interest ate away at her profits, he said. Moral of the story? In the early stages, freeing yourself from the shackles of debt can be more fruitful than venturing elsewhere.

Dont Pass Up a Reason To Celebrate

For most people, $5,000 is only the beginning of an emergency fund and not enough to make life-changing investments or other big financial moves. Even so, $5,000 is a thick financial cushion that provides a level of security and stability that most people can only dream about. Getting here took discipline, dedication and determination  so treat it like the victory it is.

When your savings reach $5,000, you must have a celebration, said Melanie Musson, financial and insurance expert with InsuranceProviders.com. You did it! You reached an important milestone, and you should reward yourself. Go out to eat, take a day off or watch a movie. Basically, you want to keep yourself motivated for the next savings milestone.

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This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: 5 Things You Must Do When Your Savings Reach $5,000
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Europe is a dream destination for many Americans, even for those who choose to live overseas. From the great food and culture to the historic monuments and beautiful beaches, Europe has plenty to offer. Unfortunately, in some countries, these riches come at a high price. In fact, some places are so expensive to live in Europe that only the rich can afford it.

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For example, the average cost of living in the United States, according to LivingCost.org, is $2,317 per month for a single person, or $5,291 for a family of four. But LivingCost.org lists many European countries and cities that cost much more than this. Here are some of the most popular that you probably cant afford without a hefty bank account.

Monaco

Monaco is a sovereign city-state, and one of the smallest in the world, but it crams an awful lot of luxury into a small package. The average cost of living in Monaco is 71% above that in the United States, making it the most expensive country in the world according to LivingCost.org data. Rents in particular are pricey, running more than double the cost in the United States. For some, however, this may be more than worth it, as Monaco has a life expectancy of a whopping 13.4 years longer than the 76.3-year average in the U.S.

Geneva

Known for its mountains, watches, chocolate and cheese  among many other things  Switzerland seduces many expats with its world-class luxuries. Quality of life simply doesnt get any better than in Switzerland, which scores an almost perfect 94 on the LivingCost.org scale vs. 86 in the U.S. But it costs a pretty penny to live in this European wonderland, especially in Geneva. Here, a family of four can expect to pay an incredible $7,937 per month, 50% higher than the average in the United States. Food costs run more than 50% higher, while rents are closer to 37% more.

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Zurich

It may be hard to believe, but costs in Zurich are even higher than in its sister city Geneva. While overall costs are only 23% higher in Switzerland as a whole than in the United States, in Zurich, a family of four can expect to pay closer to 55% more than the average American. Every month, a family in Zurich can expect to pay $2,383 on food vs. just $1,534 in America, while transportation costs are more than double, at $556 in Zurich vs. $275 in the U.S.

Basel, Switzerland

Switzerland is a relatively small country, meaning if its overall cost of living is high, its likely that most of its cities are also expensive. Basel is no exception. While not quite as unaffordable as Zurich or Geneva, its well out of reach of most average earners. Families of four pay about $7,273 in expenses monthly, 37% more than the average American family. Rents are actually fairly comparable to the United States, but other expenses, such as transportation and food, run considerably higher.

Lausanne, Switzerland

Sensing a trend here? Lausanne, like all of its sister cities in Switzerland, ranks in the top 1% of the most expensive cities in the world. Transportation costs are relatively similar to the United States, but food is more than 50% more expensive in Lausanne. Rent prices, while not runaway expensive, are still roughly 15% more than what youd pay in the United States. Overall, a family of four can expect to pay 36% more in monthly living costs in Lausanne.

London

London is a dream destination for American expats, as its an easy country to assimilate to thanks to a shared language and, to some degree, a shared culture. But living in the heart of the city can be a back-breaker in terms of expenses. Living costs for a family of four reach $6,932 in London, vs. just $5,291 in the United States. Thats a whopping 31% increase. Rents run $3,238 monthly for a family of four in London vs. $2,509 in the U.S., but thats not even as bad as the difference in transportation costs, which run $995 for a family in London but just $275 in America.

Dublin

The Emerald Isle is one of the most beautiful destinations in the world, but Irish culture and conviviality are what draw many Americans to live there. Most congregate around the countrys capital city of Dublin, but they have to dig deep in their pockets to do so. Dublin ranks in the top 3% of the most expensive cities in the world, with average monthly living expenses for a family of four reaching $5,850. Thats $559 more per month than youd pay on average in the U.S., or $6,708 per year. Transportation costs are $177 per month for individuals vs. just $104 in America, while rents are about 20% higher as well.

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This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: 7 Places To Live in Europe That Are So Expensive Only the Rich Can Afford It
Consegic Business Intelligence is a data measurement and analytics service provider which gives the most exhaustive and reliable analysis available of global consumers and markets. Our research and competitive landscape allow organizations to record competing evolutions and apply strategies accordingly to set up a rewarding benchmark in the market. We are an intellectual team of experts working together with the winning inspirations to create and validate actionable insights that ensure business growth and profitable outcomes.

Consegic Business Intelligence analyzes that the acrolein market is growing with a healthy CAGR of 3.3% during the forecast period (2023-2030), flued by the increasing adoption of acrolein in methionine, and major participants includes are Evonik, Arkema, Daicel, Hubei Shengling Technology, Hubei Jinghong Chemical, Hubei Xinjing New Material, Oakwood Products

New York, Aug. 29, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The global A crolein M arket is expected to witness significant growth at a remarkable CAGR of 3.3% during the forecast period of 2023-2030. The factors such as the increasing development of new pesticide manufacturing facilities, growth in the investment in water treatment plants, and others are accelerating the demand for acrolein, which, in turn, is boosting the market growth. In addition, the rising development of a new range of acrolein product categories will further boost the market growth during the forecast period.

According to a recent report by Consegic Business Intelligence, the acrolein market is poised for strong expansion and is expected to reach USD 1,496.20 Million by 2030. The market, which was valued at USD 1,155.93 Million in 2022, is predicted to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 3.3% during the period 2023-2030. The report highlights the increasing adoption of acroleins in water treatment agents, which is supplementing global market growth. Consegic Business Intelligence study also provides insights into the market's competitive landscape, market segmentation, regional outlook, and emerging technologies in the acrolein market.

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Acrolein is deployed in the water treatment agent to efficiently control the spread of water-deteriorating agents such as bacteria, algae, and other microorganisms. The sewage treatment connection rate attached to wastewater treatment plants is rising at the global level. As a result, there is a higher adoption of water treatment agents in wastewater treatment for superior cleaning efficiency. For illustration, according to the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), in 2020, the sewage treatment connection rate in Austria increased to 96.04% of the Austrian population. As a result, the rising sewage connection rate at the global level is boosting the demand for water treatment agents. This factor is augmenting the demand for acrolein to control plant and algae growth in irrigation canals, which, in turn, is benefiting the market growth.

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In addition, acrolein is utilized as a major building block in the manufacturing process of methionine. The deployment of acrolein in methionine ensures efficient synthesis. The increasing awareness about food nutrition, rising demand from the animal feed industry, and others are prompting the development of new methionine plants. Henceforth, the construction of new methionine facilities will fuel the demand for acrolein as it is a vital ingredient in the product. This, in turn, will create a prominent opportunity for the acrolein market growth in the upcoming years.

Global Acrolein Market: Report Attributes

Report Attributes Report Details Study Timeline 2017-2030 Market Size in 2030 (USD Million) USD 1,496.20 Million CAGR (2023-2030) 3.3% By Process Glycerol Dehydration Method and Propylene Oxidation Method By Application Methionine, Pesticide, Water Treatment Agent, and Others Report Coverage Company Ranking and Market Share, Growth Factors, Total Revenue Forecast, Regional Competitive Landscape, Business Strategies, and more. By Geography North America, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, Europe, Middle East & Africa Key Players Evonik, Arkema, Daicel, Hubei Shengling Technology, Hubei Jinghong Chemical, Puyang Shenghuade Chemical, Hubei Xinjing New Material, Oakwood Products, Inc, NSI Lab Solutions, and Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc.

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Global Acrolein Market Segmentation Details:

Based on Process, the glycerol dehydration method segment contributed the largest shares to the market growth in 2022. The glycerol dehydration method is a major process employed for the production of acrolein. The glycerol is heated in combination with potassium bisulfate or conc, phosphorus pentoxide, or sulphuric acid. This leads to the starting process of dehydration manufacturing. Likewise, the -elimination reaction takes place to ensure superior quality of acrolein. The adoption of biobased glycerol is increasing in acrolein to reduce the reliance on natural resources. Hence, the superior quality acrolein manufactured from the glycerol dehydration method is utilized in pesticides. This determinant is accelerating segment growth.

Based on Application, the water treatment agent segment accounted for the largest market share in the year 2022. Acrolein has significant biocide properties that frequently result in the adoption of the substance as a water treatment agent. Acrolein is employed in various water treatment agents such as cooling water towers, oil wells, water treatment ponds & tanks, and others. Key trends such as government initiatives for the development of wastewater treatment plans, advancement of water treatment chemicals, and others are fostering the growth of water treatment agent's adoption. Thus, the increasing adoption of water treatment agents is benefiting segmental growth.

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Based on Region, in the year 2022, North America accounted for the largest share contribution to the market growth. The vital determinants such as the development of new wastewater treatment plants, increasing adoption of pesticides, and others are promoting the demand for products such as pesticides, water treatment agents, and others in the North American region. Therefore, the rise in the utilization of acrolein in various applications such as pesticides, water treatment agents, and others is accelerating the market growth in the North American region.

Competitive Landscape

Evonik, Arkema, Daicel, and Hubei Shengling Technology are major market players that comprise the latest market circumstances. These companies are substantially leveraging their technologies for the development of a new range of acrolein. Further, the acrolein market is expected to grow steadily due to rising demand from water treatment agents applications, especially in the regions such as the Asia Pacific, the Middle East, and Europe are estimated to boost the market statistics in the coming years. Additionally, the trend toward increasing acquisitions of acrolein players is expected to increase the competition in the market.

Recent Developments

In August 2022, Spex acquired NSI Lab Solutions, a leading United States-based manufacturer. The product portfolio of NSI Lab Solutions includes acrolein, certified reference materials (CRMs), and others. The prime focus of Spex was to increase the market presence at the global level.

Key Market Takeaways

North America accounted for the highest market share at 35.05% and was valued at USD 405.15 million in 2022, and is expected to reach USD 527.56 million in 2030. Moreover, in North America, the U.S. accounted for the highest market share of 62.25% during the base year of 2022.

Based on process, the glycerol dehydration method segment accounted for the highest share contribution to the acrolein market statistics in 2022.

In the context of application, the water treatment agent segment is expected to contribute significant shares to the growth of acrolein market statistics during the forecast period.

Asia Pacific is expected to boost the market demand for acroleins due to the increasing investments in new pesticide manufacturing facilities in countries such as India, China, and others.

Browse Full Report & TOC @ https://www.consegicbusinessintelligence.com/acrolein-market

List of Major Global Acrolein Market:

Evonik

Arkema

Daicel

Hubei Shengling Technology

Hubei Jinghong Chemical

Puyang Shenghuade Chemical

Hubei Xinjing New Material

Oakwood Products, Inc

NSI Lab Solutions

Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc.

Global Acrolein Market Segmentation:

By Process Glycerol Dehydration Method Propylene Oxidation Method

By Application Methionine Pesticide Water Treatment Agent Others



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Frequently Asked Questions in the Acrolein Market Report

What was the market size of the acrolein industry in 2022? In 2022, the market size of acrolein was USD 1,155.93 million.

What will be the potential market valuation for the acrolein industry by 2030? In 2030, the market size of acrolein will be expected to reach USD 1,496.20 million.

What are the key factors driving the growth of the acrolein market? The rising adoption of acrolein in water treatment agents is fostering market growth.

What is the dominating segment in the acrolein market by application? In 2022, the water treatment agent segment accounted for the highest market share of 39.75% in the overall acrolein market.

Based on current market trends and future predictions, which geographical region is the dominating region in the acrolein market? North America accounted for the highest market share in the overall acrolein market.



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Andrea Dayotas MA, CAGS, LMHC, LCSWA, LADC-1

AdCare Hospital's New COO Andrea Dayotas MA, CAGS, LMHC, LCSWA, LADC-1

WORCESTER, Mass., Aug. 29, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- AdCare Hospital, a leading addiction treatment provider, is pleased to announce the promotion of Andrea Dayotas to the position of chief operating officer (COO). Dayotas has been with AdCare for five years, during which time she has held several leadership roles, including program manager, director of clinical services, executive director of inpatient services, and now COO. For Dayotas, working in addiction treatment is personal. Her mother is in recovery and received her treatment at an AdCare facility.



My mom is celebrating more than nine years in recovery this year, and Ive witnessed firsthand how this has changed the trajectory of her life and impacted our family, said Dayotas. Thats why I'm passionate about addiction treatment and committed to making a difference in the lives of our patients who entrust AdCare with their care and recovery.

Dayotas brings with her more than 20 years of healthcare experience. Her clinical background as a licensed mental health counselor, licensed alcohol and drug counselor, and licensed social work associate makes her ideal for the COO role. She has also worked in both hospital settings and outpatient settings and has always been connected to academia and teaching facilities.

"When people read the title of chief operating officer, you tend to lean on healthcare administration and more of a business perspective first. Whereas for Andrea, she understands the business aspect and the patient experience, giving her a unique perspective to enhance the quality of services we provide for our patients," said AdCare Hospital CEO, Brian Stoesz. "With Andrea at the helm, patients can expect excellent continuity of care.

Andrea is currently working on building several specialized intensive outpatient programs at AdCare Hospital, including a trauma-informed care program, a co-occurring program for people with multiple health conditions, a mens and womens program, a LGBTQ+ program, and a veterans program.

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"I am excited to take on this new role and look forward to building on AdCares reputation as a treatment center known for providing high-quality, compassionate care, said Dayotas.

Dayotas has a bachelor's degree in psychology, a masters degree in agency counseling and a certificate of advanced graduate studies in counseling from Rhode Island College. She is also a graduate of Harvards Business School Online and is currently enrolled in the women in leadership executive program at The University of Vermont, Grossman School of Business.

About AdCare Hospital

AdCare Hospital is located in Worcester, MA. AdCare Hospital treats patients who are struggling with drug addiction, alcohol addiction and co-occurring mental/behavioral health issues. For more information, call 401-200-4885.

AdCare Hospital

107 Lincoln St.

Worcester, MA 01605

401-200-4885

Contact:

Joy Sutton

Director of Corporate Communications

jsutton@contactaac.com

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/b04cf8a3-dd9a-4a03-a947-2dd27583d5ad




The soaring temperatures in Arizona are even too hot for one of hip-hops hottest stars.

50 Cent has called off Tuesday nights concert at the Talking Stick Resort Amphitheatre in Phoenix amid a warning of extreme heat issued by the national weather service.

Due to extreme heat, the show tomorrow in Phoenix, AZ is being postponed, the Grammy- and Emmy-winning rapper wrote on Instagram late Monday night. For anyone who would like a refund, please go to point of purchase for instructions. Ill be back in Arizona soon! 116 degrees is dangerous for everyone.

According to data updated Tuesday morning, the Phoenix area is expecting to reach a high of 117 degrees, with a low of just 93.

The National Weather Service announced that a new temperature record was set Monday, posting on social media: The record high temperature for Phoenix has already been broken for today as of 12:45 pm early this afternoon.

50 Cent  whose real name is Curtis Jackson  is in the middle of The Final Lap Tour 2023, in celebration of the 20th anniversary of his breakthrough debut album, Get Rich or Die Tryin. The global jaunt, which kicked off July 21 in Salt Lake City, has already made stops in Toronto, New York and Virginia Beach, Virginia.

The North American leg, featuring Busta Rhymes and Jeremih, is expected to wrap in Detroit on Sept. 27 before heading to Europe for 25 additional dates.

A rep for promoter Live Nation deferred to the 48-year-old Heat lyricists social media announcement when probed for further details about the Arizona concert cancellation.
90 Day Fiance: The Other Way season 5 introduced a brand new couple halfway through the season: Shekinah Garner and Sarper Guven. After meeting Sarper in his native Turkey, Shekinah quickly fell in love and felt ready to move her life to his country after only five months of dating. However, this meant Shekinah would leave her daughter behind, which raised many fans eyebrows.

Who Is Shekinah Garner on 90 Day Fiance: The Other Way?

Shekinah made her debut on the August 28 episode of 90 Day Fiance: The Other Way season 5. The 41-year-old Los Angeles native explained that she met Sarper while on a trip to Turkey with a girlfriend.

I downloaded a dating app to see what Turkish men are like, she said. After matching with Sarper, they met up for a date and clicked. Shekinah was impressed by Sarpers love of makeup, as he wore highlighter on their date.

I noticed it down the bridge of his nose, and I was like, This man is wearing makeup. Hes wearing makeup on a date with me. That is so cute! she added.

Though Shekinah went back home, she maintained contact with Sarper and returned to Turkey two months later. She said that he was everything shes looked for in a man. After five months of dating, her feelings for him were so strong that they discussed the possibility of her moving to Turkey full-time, leaving her work as an aesthetician, her friends and her daughter behind.

Who Is 90 Day Fiance Star Shekinahs Daughter?

Shekinah has so far kept information about her daughter mostly under wraps, so her name and age are unclear. She has not appeared on Shekinah and Sarpers joint Instagram account, and Shekinahs personal account is currently private. However, Shekinah did mention to her friends in her debut episode that her daughter was off at boarding school, so she felt comfortable moving to Turkey.

90 Day Fiance's Shekinah and Sarper Found Love in Turkey: Find Out If They're Still Together

This didnt sit right with some fans who took to social media to express their disapproval. Shekinah doesn't care about leaving her daughter at boarding school? one fan tweeted with red flag emojis. Another wrote, Shekinah has known Sarper for 5 months & in that small amount of time she has decided to move to Turkey. & leave her daughter in the US. I have questions.

Did Shekinah Move to Turkey Without Her Daughter?

Shekinah and Sarper appear to still be together and living in Turkey following their season of 90 Day Fiance: The Other Way. They have been posting frequently on their joint Instagram account, with Istanbul, Turkey, sometimes tagged as the location. However, its unclear if Shekinahs daughter is also in Turkey or still in the U.S.

Fans will have to wait and see how Shekinah and Sarpers relationship unfolds on 90 Day Fiance: The Other Way. New episodes air on Mondays at 8 p.m. ET on TLC.
Triple Oscar nominee Agnieszka Holland s Green Border, which will premiere in competition at the Venice Film Festival, before going onto Toronto Film Festival and New York Film Festival, has sold to multiple territories. Variety has been granted access to an exclusive clip from the film, and Hollands notes on the production, which we quote from below, again exclusively.

The films international sales agency, Films Boutique, has sold the film to the following distributors and territories: Vercine in Spain, Panda Lichtspiele in Austria, Kino Pavasaris for the Baltics, Art Fest in Bulgaria, Magic Box in Slovakia, Fivia in Slovenia, Vertigo in Hungary and Bio Paradis in Iceland.

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The film, as previously announced, has also been sold to Condor (France), September Films (Benelux), Movies Inspired (Italy), Leopardo Filmes (Portugal), MCF Megacom (former Yugoslavia), Kino Swiat (Poland) and AQS (Czech Rep./Slovakia).

Green Border is set in the treacherous and swampy forests that make up the so-called green border between Belarus and Poland, where refugees from the Middle East and Africa trying to reach the European Union are trapped in a geopolitical crisis cynically engineered by Belarusian dictator Alexander Lukashenko.

In an attempt to provoke Europe, refugees are lured to the border by propaganda promising easy passage to the EU. Pawns in this hidden war, the lives of Julia, a newly minted activist who has given up her comfortable life, Jan, a young border guard, and a Syrian family intertwine.

In her as-yet-unpublished directors notes, seen exclusively by Variety, Holland writes: More than 30 years ago, I made a film, Europa, Europa, about a Jewish boy who, to survive the Holocaust, first assumed the identity of a Stalinist communist youth, and then a soldier of the Wehrmacht and a student of an exclusive Hitler Youth school, becoming a young Nazi.

It was 1989 and the Berlin Wall had just fallen. The double title was meant to express the duality of the European tradition: Europe of our aspirations, the cradle of culture and civilization, the rule of law and democracy, human rights, equality and fraternity, but on the other hand, Europe as the cradle of the worst crimes against humanity, selfishness and hatred.

Holland contrasts the treatment of Ukrainian refugees with that of the migrants from outside Europe. Once again, many refugees are wandering around the woods on the Polish-Belarusian border; once again being tortured, pushed back to Belarus, and dying. The oppression of the activists rescuing them is getting harsher, and the behavior of the Polish border guards  the same ones who carry Ukrainian children across the border with tenderness and empathy  is becoming more brutal. This difference in the treatment of these two different groups of war refugees brutally exposes what we try to hide: our European racism.

The people and events we depict are not accompanied by the pathos of heroism and patriotism. The basic difference between the refugees in our story and those who are crossing Ukraines borders today is simple: the color of their skin. They have all been confronted with a choice none of them was prepared for, but which they have to face. The protagonists of the other threads of our story also face such a choice. The different points of view come together to create as complete a picture as possible.

I think that in their story, just as in a drop of water, our European duality is reflected  the duality I was thinking about when I gave my film the double title Europa, Europa 30 years ago.

Green Border





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Actor Alec Baldwin is reportedly worried that he will have to face criminal charges for the October 2021 shooting of "Rust" cinematographer Halyna Hutchins.

The 65-year-old actor was holding a prop Colt revolver for a scene when it went off, killing Hutchins and hospitalizing director Joel Souza. "Rust" armorer Hannah Gutierrez-Reed was charged with two counts of involuntary manslaughter after live ammunition was found in the gun the "30 Rock" actor was holding.

In June 2023, she was charged with tampering with evidence after prosecutors claimed that she gave a bag of cocaine to another individual on the day that Hutchins died, hindering the police investigation into her death. Her trial has been postponed to early 2024.

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Baldwin had also been charged with two counts of involuntary manslaughter, but those charges were dropped without prejudice in April, meaning that charges could be refiled at any time. In early June, special prosecutors indicated that they would decide whether or not to press charges within sixty days. However, those sixty days are nearing their end, meaning that Baldwin could be charged again any day now.

Alec Baldwin Reportedly Worried About Facing New Criminal Charges Over Fatal Shooting Of 'Rust' Cinematographer Halyna Hutchins

MEGA

Sources told the National Inquirer that Alec Baldwin is worried that he will face new criminal charges following a new report conducted by firearm experts in New Mexico to aid the prosecution in their case against Hannah Gutierrez-Reed.

"Although Alec Baldwin repeatedly denies pulling the trigger, given the tests, findings, and observations reported here, the trigger had to be pulled or depressed sufficiently to release the fully cocked or retracted hammer of the evidence revolver," the report states.

"He's losing it! He's worried sick he could end up behind bars," the insider alleged, as per Radar Online. The actor, who recently welcomed his eighth child with wife Hilaria Baldwin last September, is worried about missing more family milestones after celebrating his eldest daughter's tenth birthday last week.

Although Baldwin has frequently denied firing the gun and pulling the trigger, attorney Pete Gleason, who is also a former NYPD detective told the National Enquirer that the gun "doesn't fire itself."

Baldwin Fails To Get Civil Suit By Three 'Rust' Crew Members Dismissed

MEGA

Last week, the "Supercell" actor also failed in his bid to get a civil suit filed by three former "Rust" employees thrown out.

Last Wednesday, Deadline was the first to report that New Mexicos First Judicial District Court Judge Bryan Biedscheid denied a motion placed by Alec Baldwin and co-defendants El Dorado Pictures and Rust Movie Productions to dismiss the lawsuit filed by three Rust crew members: Ross Addiego, Doran Curtin, and Reese Price. Judge Biedscheid also denied a motion to stay the lawsuit until the criminal case had been resolved.

The three former Rust crew members filed a lawsuit asking for unspecified damages after asserting that they are the victims of negligent and reckless conduct from Alec Baldwin, El Dorado Pictures, and Rust Movie Productions. According to court documents obtained by The Blast, the three former employees insist that they are entitled to damages for their injuries caused by Defendants negligent and reckless conduct.

The former employees are all seeking compensatory and punitive damages, jointly and severally, for loss of enjoyment of life and loss of value of lost earnings and present cash value of earning capacity.

MEGA

All three former employees go into vivid detail about what happened on the day that Hutchins was shot and killed. Reese Price claims that he saw the muzzle flash of the revolver in Defendant Baldwins hand. He felt the physical force of the gunfire in the small space. His ears began to ring. He felt as if everything was moving in slow motion. He saw Souza screaming and crawling away from Defendant Baldwin. Desperate and scared, crew members began to yank Plaintiff Price by the shirt and out of the church. Plaintiff Price realized the revolver had been fired towards him and his colleagues.

Ross Addiego claims that he saw the same flash and felt the same disorienting sound, force, and physical trauma from the gunshot. He heard Souzas muffled screams and began to navigate the chaos. He became aware that he had just witnessed Defendant Baldwin fire the revolver towards him and the group in which he was standing.

MEGA

Doran Curtin claims that she also felt the same sound, force, and physical trauma from the gunshot. She watched Hutchins fall to the ground right in front of her, the court documents state. With Hutchins at her feet, other crew members instructed Plaintiff Curtin to remove Hutchins headset. She bent down and removed the equipment from Hutchins head. She watched in shock as Hutchins grabbed at her abdomen.

It remains to be seen if Alec Baldwin will face criminal charges for her death. Hannah Gutierrez-Reed has pled not guilty and waived her right to a preliminary hearing. Her Santa Fe trial had been tentatively schedule for February 21, 2024.
CHICAGO  A Chicago TV news crew reporting on a string of robberies in the citys West Town neighborhood became the story themselves when they were robbed at gunpoint early Monday.

A reporter and photographer for Spanish-language TV station Univision Chicago were filming just before 5 a.m. in the 1200 block of North Milwaukee Avenue when three men wearing ski masks and brandishing firearms robbed them at gunpoint, according to the station.

They were approached with guns and robbed, said Luis Godinez, vice president of news at Univision Chicago. Mainly it was personal items, and they took a camera.

The Chicago police identified the victims as a 28-year-old male and 42-year-old male. They were outside when the three men drove up in a gray sedan and black SUV. After taking the items, the armed robbers fled southbound in their vehicles. No injuries were reported and no one is in custody, the police said.

Univision Chicago, the local TV affiliate of international media company TelevisaUnivision, is not disclosing the names of the reporter and photographer to protect their privacy, Godinez said.

Theyre OK, and were working on it together as a team, Godinez said.

The news crew was taping a story about robberies in the West Town neighborhood that was slated to run on the morning news. The footage they shot was in the stolen TV camera, and the story never made it on the air, Godinez said.

Godinez said the station took a different approach with a general story about the recent robberies that aired on the 5 p.m. newscast. The incident involving its own news crew was mentioned, but the station doesnt want to make it a focal point of its coverage.

We dont want to make the story about us, because there were other robberies that occurred within that same period, he said.

The robbery was the second to hit a Chicago TV news crew this month.

On Aug. 8, a WLS-TV photographer was assaulted and robbed while preparing to cover a weekday afternoon news conference on the West Side, the station reported.

Raza Siddiqui, president of the National Association of Broadcast Employees and Technicians Local 41, which represents TV photographers in Chicago, is sounding the alarm on the growing threats to the safety of those who cover the news.

Our news photographers and reporters provide a very important public service in keeping our community informed, Siddiqui said in an emailed statement. We are committed to making sure that their safety comes first. We have talked to the photographer who was robbed today and he is thankfully safe and in good spirits.

_____
Sometimes, a routine police-booking photograph of a criminal suspect gets pushed to the popular culture foreground on the crest of an accused offense  Jane Fonda with a raised-fist power salute mocking an arrest for a falsified drug charge, for example, or Charles Manson with a very real swastika carved into his forehead. Once the heated news cycle moves on, the photograph sinks back into relative obscurity, pulled out now and then for related updates.

Mug shots get filed, but their resonance bends toward fleeting. That changed last Friday.

Release of the Fulton County Sheriffs Office mugshot of the disgraced 45th president of the United States, indicted for an attempt to overturn the Georgia results of the 2020 election, instantly catapulted to iconic status. By virtue of 13 felony charges for racketeering and conspiracy, this picture will last.

The harshly lighted photograph of Donald John Trump was snapped by an unidentified county official. The mug shot shows the suspects head lowered as if to obscure a jowly double-chin, eyes narrowed into a glare, lips firmly pursed and yellow pompadour swirled into a cotton-candy crown. Missing a paired profile shot, which is common to the police-photograph genre, it bumps into second place virtually any of his other innumerable portraits, presidential and otherwise.

The pose was surely staged at least as carefully as the fake Time magazine covers that he once produced to con the gullible. Imagine him preening in front of a mirror in the days leading up to his scheduled arrest, trying out various grimaces, the better to determine which might best convey never surrender! to his supporters.

This mug shot shows former President Donald Trump on Aug. 24, after he surrendered and was booked at the Fulton County Jail in Atlanta. (Uncredited / Associated Press)

That declaration is what he quickly posted to 87 million followers on X (formerly Twitter) when the photo was released. The fact that his actual surrender to police custody prompted publication of a never-surrender visual is a splendid irony  albeit one apparently lost on the cult, given the $7.1 million his campaign says it raised within 48 hours.

Never surrender  unless you are doing exactly that?

Social media soon lit up with comparisons to Hollywoods so-called Stanley Kubrick stare, offered by deranged and violent characters in the vaunted directors filmography  like Malcolm McDowell in A Clockwork Orange and Jack Nicholson in The Shining. However, not only is the thought that this cruel and petty coward is some sort of unstoppable supervillain too absurd to take seriously, it is also belied by the pile-up of arrests for 91 criminal charges (so far) in multiple jurisdictions, plus his May 9 conviction for civil liability in what the judge described as the rape of E. Jean Carroll.

Whats more, the ridiculous mug shot made me laugh, not cringe. For me, a better analogy than Kubrick lies elsewhere.

Before last Friday, the most enduring mug shots in modern American culture were Andy Warhols 13 Most Wanted Men, born as a monumental mural for crowds at the 1964 New York Worlds Fair. For incongruous mug shot photography, Warhol now has some real competition in the longevity sweepstakes.

More important, something resonates between Warhol and Trumps mug shots. More than just the coincidental number of 13 wanted men and 13 felonies, its the projection of their own alleged criminality.

Read more: Review: James Castle made thousands of resolute drawings with soot and spit

13 Most Wanted Men was later elaborated into a set of paintings on canvas. "No. 6," a two-panel work in black silkscreen ink on silvery gray ground, shows head-on and profile views of scowling Thomas Francis (Duke) Connelly, NYPD bank robbery suspect #202742. It hangs upstairs at the Broad museum, displayed along with Marilyn Monroe, Jackie Kennedy and a nifty diagram for a ruptured hernia truss. The Worlds Fair portraits live on not because of the particular people pictured, but because of the artists stature.

The mural was Warhols only public art project, and it was a fiasco.

Architect Philip Johnson, who designed the fairs New York State Pavilion, gave him the $6,000 commission for a big painting on a 20-square-foot Masonite panel that would hang on the buildings facade. The mug shot idea came from artist Wynn Chamberlain, whose cop boyfriend often brought NYPD fliers home.

Warhol had also seen the Marcel Duchamp retrospective at the Pasadena Art Museum a few months earlier. The impish Dada artists design of a wanted poster featuring his own fabricated mug shot as a show promotion lent avant-garde pedigree.

When the mural was installed in April, fair officials blanched. Crime touted as a cultural highlight for a huge tourism event? Within 48 hours, it was censored by Gov. Nelson Rockefeller , painted over with silver paint. Rockefeller, a Modern art collector then angling for a presidential run, also may have figured that alienating Italian and Irish American communities by showcasing members criminality was not a winning political idea.

And Warhols mural was most certainly political, which is what his mug shots share with Trumps.

Read more: How much is Trump's mug shot worth? Over $7 million, campaign says

Artistically, the unlucky number 13 played on the familiar trope of the avant-garde artist as cultural outlaw, while using crude mug shots gave imaginative sheen to one of the lowest forms of photography. In 1964, camera work was barely considered an art form, never mind a medium with credibility equal to painting. (Part of Warhols genius was to use silkscreens to dress up common snapshots in painting-drag.) But a sharp political punch came in the implication of official sanction for the the works homoerotic overtones. A swish artist was trumpeting 13 Most Wanted Men, complete with clear undertones of enthusiasm for illicit rough trade.

If that political meaning was hardly obscure, another has remained largely overlooked. Also in spring 1964, Congress was in a pitched battle over passage of the Civil Rights Act.

In support, the local New York branch of the Mattachine Society, a pioneering gay civil rights organization founded in L.A. by Harry Hay in 1950, compiled a comprehensive list of state penalties for sodomy. Sex between men was illegal everywhere but Illinois. New York imposed 90 days in jail for a first offense. Neighboring Connecticut, manifesting its separatist Puritan history, posted the nations most severe punishment, inflicting 30 years in prison. Pennsylvania, Warhols birth state, added a $5,000 fine to a mandated 10-year sentence.

Implemented or not, those malicious state penalties existed to suppress the freedom of its targets through fear. Warhol wasnt merely a successful Madison Avenue adman and an emerging fine artist; as an active homosexual, he was also a criminal. He had that in common with the most wanted men he chose to elevate.

And Trump? His visibly stage-managed photograph is pure political theater. Legal defense for the Georgia racketeering and conspiracy charges is a steep climb (weve all heard the wildly incriminating tapes) so politics is pretty much all hes got. For his first on-camera moment in a perilous case, he assumed the pose of a victimized tough guy to rally his aggrieved base.

As they say of difficult criminal trials, when you cant pound the facts and cant pound the law, pound the table instead. In his preposterous mug shot, Trump pounds away, looking just as fiercely enraged as he possibly can. Warhol, a master rather than an apprentice of celebrity, would surely understand. But I do wonder: Does Trump know its camp?

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
A $170 million cold storage facility will one day replace a steel mill scrap yard in Claymont with the help of more than $4.5 million from Delaware taxpayers.

Agile Cold Storage, a 3-year-old Gainesville, Georgia, company, plans to build a climate-controlled warehouse south of Naamans Road and west of the I-95 and I-495 interchange. The company will employ 130 people at the facility at an average annual salary of $56,000.

It is one of two industrial projects planned at First State Crossing, a large-scale mixed-use redevelopment of the Claymont steel mill property. The state Council on Development Finance on Monday approved a $4,560,500 grant for the project. The money comes from Delaware's Strategic Fund, a pool of state money directed toward business retention and attraction.

Who is Agile Cold Storage?

Agile Cold Storage stores and distributes products for other companies, acting as a third-party cog in the supply chain. The Claymont facility will be its first in the region  the company has two warehouses in Georgia with a third on the way.

Each warehouse serves between three and five customers, John Ripple, senior vice president for automation, told the Council on Development Finance on Monday. More than half of the Claymont facility will be dedicated to imported protein, Ripple said, which is stored for several months. Agile will bring an existing customer to Claymont and has a second lined up that will be moving its business from New Jersey's Port of Newark.

Ripple said the Claymont site was attractive because it is about halfway between the Port of Wilmington and the Packer Avenue Terminal in Philadelphia. Ripple said products imported to the Philadelphia port are being transported across the river to New Jersey and later driven back over to end users. Agile feels it can fit a need serving those companies and others at the Port of Wilmington, which has limited cold storage capacity.

There is a mix of uses around the property, including the Knollwood community just to the south. A truck entrance will be constructed at Ridge Road, and an employee entrance will be across from the Tri-State Mall property. The loading stalls will be on the opposite side of the building from Naamans Road.

Story continues

Representatives of Agile Cold Storage and the Delaware Prosperity Partnership present to the Council on Development Finance at the Buena Vista conference center near New Castle on Monday, Aug. 28, 2023.

The state grant

Agile's grant is the largest approved by the Council on Development Finance this year. It represents about a quarter of the Strategic Fund, which is the state's primary economic development resource.

Grant applicants are brought to the council by the Delaware Prosperity Partnership, a privately run organization set up by Gov. John Carney to oversee the state's economic development. Megan Kopistecki, DPP's senior manager for business development, emphasized the intense demand for cold storage facilities when presenting the project to the council Monday.

"More than 70% of all storage facilities in the U.S. were built before 2000, with the average facility more than 40 years old," she said. "Older facilities lack the taller ceilings and the wider column spacing that allow for increased inventory and more efficient operations."

Cold storage warehouses are more expensive to build than regular warehouses. Ripple also noted that Agile faces higher-than-usual site work costs given the property's previous use as a storage area and scrap yard for the steel mill.

The 130 jobs are due to be created in the three years after receiving funding. Typically, grant recipients face clawbacks if they don't produce the jobs in the agreed-upon timeframe.

Agile plans to build the facility in two phases beginning in September or October. The company still needs New Castle County approval before it can proceed. Construction will continue over roughly the next five years, Kopistecki said.

"Agile is looking forward to hiring our team members and servicing our customers starting next summer," Agile Cold Storage President and CEO Don Schoenl said in a statement.

A warehouse under construction off Naamans Road on Aug. 23, 2023. It is one of multiple warehouses proposed or under construction in Claymont near I-95 and I-495.

What is in First State Crossing?

The former scrap yard was previously slated for office space, but First State Crossing developer Commercial Development Company of St. Louis, Missouri pursued industrial uses in the post-COVID office downturn.

Now, something of an industrial hub is forming around Naamans Road.

A 358,000-square-foot warehouse along Philadelphia Pike south of Naamans Road was the first part of First State Crossing to start construction. It is a regular speculative warehouse being built by First Industrial Realty, a Chicago-based real estate company.

It is expected to cost about $60 million and be completed in the first quarter of 2024, according to a June press release.

Scenes of the demolition of the Tri-State Mall in Claymont on Monday, March 6, 2023.

A separate proposal at the Tri-State Mall across Naamans Road from the Agile Cold Storage site has the approval to build a 525,000-square-foot warehouse. Developer New York-based KPR Centers has not announced a tenant. Demolition of the Tri-State Mall occurred earlier this year, and a small retail space included in the project is under construction.

Plans for First State Crossing include housing, retail and some office space. Local officials are also pursuing a riverfront park.

A new Claymont train station is expected to open in November before Thanksgiving, according to Delaware Transit Corp. CEO John Sisson.

Like knowing what stores, restaurants and developments are coming and going in Delaware? Join our Facebook group What's Going There in Delaware and subscribe to our free What's Going There in Delaware newsletter.

Contact Brandon Holveck at bholveck@delawareonline.com. Follow him on Twitter @holveck_brandon.

This article originally appeared on Delaware News Journal: Agile Cold Storage Claymont facility gets $4.5 million taxpayer boost
Swizz Beatz is bringing his love for hot rides to the silver screen. The New York native has teamed up with Onyx Collective for Drive With Swizz Beatz, a new docuseries that examines cars and communities across the globe.

Set to debut on Nov. 16, the non-scripted series features the 44-year-old and his son, Nasir Dean (also known as Note Mercato) visiting various destinations and learning about the areas distinctive car culture. The duo brings together two otherwise disparate car clubs over a shared love of all things automotive and an appreciation for what its like to beat the odds through sheer drive alone.

The father and son take trips to Los Angeles, New York, Houston, Atlanta, Japan, and Saudi Arabia across six episodes, released in full.

The official synopsis per The Wrap reads, Life is all about drive and the will to succeed despite the odds. Nowhere is this more evident than in the wildly inventive and passionate world of car culture, where enthusiasts show off vastly different vehicles in a display not only of automotive ardor but also of their own personal success.

It was first announced that Onyx Collective had acquired the project in August 2022.

Drive With Swizz Beatz is produced by Jay Brown and Tyran Ty Ty Smith of Ty Ty and Jay Brown Productions, Raymond Garcia of Major TV, Emmet Dennis of Black Drive Originals, and Christian Sarabia of 51 Minds. The series streams exclusively on Hulu in the U.S., Star+ in Latin America, and Disney+ in all other territories.

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Elon Musk is the worlds richest man. Hes also perhaps its most polarizing. Love him or hate him, were all beholden to Musk. And Im not just talking about the service formerly known as Twitters strategic importance to the worlds of media and entertainment, not to mention global leaders.

Im talking about the most sensitive aspects of life on the planet, period. Musk, in many ways, rules our lives, yet few of us  apparently including our own government  fully appreciate that. Nor do we grasp the risks that come with so much control in the hands of one person, especially as those hands seem shakier and more erratic each day.

We all know the risks that flow from our long-time obsession with whats now called X. As Ive noted before, Musk champions himself as the Great Libertarian and defender of the First Amendment. Yet, at the same time, he arbitrarily throttles access to websites he dislikes and suspends the accounts of journalists who challenge him. Musk is all for free speech, so long as that speech does not compete with his empire or bite his thin skin.

An activist wears an Elon Musk mask at a protest in Berlin in April 2023 (Photo by Sean Gallup/Getty Images)

But Musks control over speech with which he disagrees can go much deeper than that, with profound implications for everyone on the planet. Many forget that Musk also controls the skies above us. Over the past several years, Musk quietly has launched and deployed nearly 5,000 communications satellites that envelop the upper atmosphere to facilitate seamless broadband in every nook and cranny on the planet, many of which previously had none available. And that Starlink system has played a crucial role in Ukraines defense against Russias brutal attacks. Without it, top Ukrainian military planners say they could not have achieved the type of success the underdog has had against a ruthless power with resources that dwarf their own. Theyve also complained that hes cut off Ukraines access to Starlink within Russian-occupied Crimea, hobbling drone strikes.

What if Musk changes his mind tomorrow about providing service to Ukraine? Musk holds strong, if questionably formed, views about many things, including politics. Hes proposed a peace plan for Ukraine welcomed by Russia and denounced by its victim. And he has massive business interests all around the world, including in Russia and especially in China. So if Musk finds it strategically beneficial to point his satellites one way rather than another, his singular decision could have profound implications on our collective global security, including the potential deployment of nuclear weapons.

Musks Starlink satellite system is just part of his overall dominance of spaceflight. Starlink is made possible by Musks SpaceX rockets, which proved out the concept of reusable spacecraft that even NASA couldnt deliver on, transforming the economics of spaceflight. Now NASA depends on him.

I havent even mentioned Tesla. Tesla, of course, single handedly brought electric cars into the mainstream, transforming the entire global auto industry in the process. But it goes deeper than that. Central to Musks genius is his ability to get us all hooked (and dependent) on his technology, and that happens here too. Musks Tesla charging stations have become the industry standard for other manufacturers as well (including Ford and General Motors), meaning that Musks decisions about how and where to charge our cars could one day drive the entire national transportation system. And another Musk operation, the Boring Company, has plans to tunnel new underground pathways as part of that.

If youre not stressed yet, theres Musks renewed obsession with artificial intelligence. He helped launch OpenAI, then soured on it and has a new AI startup called xAI. Another company, Neuralink, wants to connect our brains to the Internet. Literally, via electrodes. The FDA recently caved to Musk and granted long-sought approvals to begin human trials, which could come in months.

Back to X for a moment: Musk wants to turn it into a super app which melds communications and commerce. Remember, he earned his initial fortune by co-creating PayPal and disrupting global payments in the process. Musk now seeks to integrate largely unregulated blockchain-enabled crypto into X. If his plan succeeds, his access to our personal data will only grow.

Musks fingerprints are all over many of the most essential aspects of our lives and our futures, and his reach will likely expand. No other captain of industry has ever come close, not even the great Steve Jobs. With that immense power comes great responsibility and tremendous judgment and humility, of course.

Sadly  and frighteningly  those are not Musks strong suits.

For those of you interested in learning more, visit Peters firm Creative Media at creativemedia.biz and follow him on Twitter/X @pcsathy.

The post Its Elon Musks World  Were Just Living in It | PRO Insight appeared first on TheWrap.
Several multiplexes in Florida are seeing their final shows tonight before Hurricane Idalia hits the state in whats expected to be a Category 3 storm with surges of 15 feet on the Gulf Coast side.

Deadline hears that at least 24 cinemas are closing in Florida tonight, including but not limited to AMC locations in Tampa, Orlando, Jacksonville and Orange Park and Regal sites in Ocala, Pinellas Place and Gainesville. Many are looking to reopen safely on Thursday ahead of Labor Day weekend, during which Sonys The Equalizer 3 is set to make $30M-$40M over four days.

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The hurricane currently is a Category 2 and about 300 miles south of Tallahassee with maximum sustained winds up at 100 mph. Many locations in southern Florida have measured wind gusts between 40-50 mph.

South Carolina Gov. Henry McMaster already has declared a state of emergency in his state ahead of the hurricanes arrival.

CNN reports that the Pentagon is at the ready with 3,000 National Guardsmen mobilized ahead of Hurricane Idalia. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis said Monday that he activated 5,500 National Guard members to assist with recovery efforts.

Fort Myers Beach, which is on the Gulf side of Florida, still is recovering from last Septembers devastation from Hurricane Ian. Local officials are greatly concerned about the Sanibel Causeway, which collapsed during that Cat 5 storm and remains under construction.

Cuba reportedly saw 4 inches of rain on Sunday, with Idalia hitting the westernmost part of the country the worst, causing flooding in Havana and several power outages. There also were downed trees, damaged buildings and flooded homes.

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CNN

A retired California Superior Court judge on Monday criticized attorneys for former President Donald Trump over a stunningly stupid argument they made in a court filing while trying to push their clients Washington, D.C., criminal trial over the Jan. 6 insurrection all the way to 2026an effort that ultimately failed.

Appearing on CNNs The Source, LaDoris Hazzard Cordell told anchor Kaitlan Collins that it was inappropriate for Trumps attorneys to reference the landmark 1932 Supreme Court decision Powell v. Alabama, in which the court said that a defendant who is charged with a serious crime must not be stripped of his right to have sufficient time to advise with counsel and prepare his defense. In its decision at the time, the court reversed the rape convictions of nine Black men, saying they did not get a fair trialone which began only six days after they were indicted.

What the Trump team did was say that, well, what happened in that trial is what could happen here in this trial, which was absolutely absurd, Cordell said. She added that the defendants in the rape trial, known as the Scottsboro Boys, were not properly informed that they could even choose their own lawyers.

By contrast, Cordell explained, Trump now has a trial date of March 4 of next year, which is seven months away. Also, she said, the former president has experienced lawyersa whole team[and] investigators.

Not only was the invocation of Powell v. Alabama stunningly stupid due to the lack of similarity in the cases, Cordell continued, but because it alienated Judge Tanya Chutkan.

A female judge, a Black judge, and to talk about that case and compare it to Trumps case was absurd, she said, adding that she believes Chutkan was absolutely offended.

During Mondays hearing, Chutkan said Trumps case was profoundly different, and that the trial date she set does not move the case forward with the haste of the mob.

Read more at The Daily Beast.

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One little girl was not so happy to see that the beaches in Maine were not anything like what she's used to in Florida

One toddler is proving that you can take the girl out of Florida  but you can't take Florida out of the girl.



Alex Medina, a mom of four who shares her family's travel adventures on social media, recently posted a hilarious video showing what happened when she took her Florida native kids to a beach in Maine.

As her kids are used to sandy Florida beaches and not the rocky shores of Maine, one of Medina's daughters was not afraid to show her true feelings about her time in Bar Harbor.

"What do you think of this beach Charlie?" she asks her daughter in the video, as the toddler struggles to walk on the rocks in her sandals.



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Related: Dad Asks 2-Year-Old Son What Makes Him Happy  And His Answers Go Viral

Charlie then gets closer to her mom, telling her that she wants to leave as she breaks down in tears.

"I just wanna get out of here!" she cries.

"When you're from the Gulf Coast in Florida & you go to the beach in Maine ," Alex wrote on the video.

"There's no coast like the emerald coast!" she added in the caption.

"Too funny! ," one user replied to the clip, while another agreed, "Lmao im a grown woman and i feel the the same way ."



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Oscar-winning composer Alexandre Desplat has scored the music for Netflixs Nyad.

Directed by Elizabeth Chai Vasarhelyi and Jimmy Chin , Nyad stars Annette Bening as Diana Nyad , an athlete, who at 60, achieves her lifelong dream of finishing the 110-mile open ocean swim from Cuba to Florida. Julia Cox penned the screenplay.

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In a statement to Variety, Desplat said, Chai and Jimmys direction is very strong. They managed brilliantly to make you share the dangers and emotions that Diana Nyad goes through in her incredible challenge. And the friendship between Diana, Bonnie (Jodie Foster), and the crew reveals a beautiful human experience.

Desplat, whose credits include The Shape of Water, Guillermo Del Toros Pinocchio and Grand Budapest Hotel, prefers the organic approach. He said, The more I compose for films, the more I try to enter into the screen, as if I was another actor playing on the set with the cast. The notes evolving around them, getting closer or further, expanding their emotions, opening a wider horizon. When I write film music, inspiration comes from the story, the camera movements, and the light, of course, but also from the unspoken, the invisible, the hidden emotions of the characters. I feel which instruments should be playing, their register and the size of the orchestra.

Vasarhelyi added that she has tried at least six times to collaborate with Desplat, and used his score from the 2009 film Un Prophet as temp music on the documentaries Meru and Free Solo.

On working with him, the filmmaker said, Diana Nyad spends much of this film swimming underwater and no one is talking. What were aiming to achieve with the score is exploring the internal landscape of her mind. Alexandres score speaks to that and also helps us add a layer of restraint to an act that seems so outrageous. It was a real privilege to watch an artist like Alexandre at work.

Desplat has also previously collaborated with some of the filmmaking team on Nyad via the film The Imitation Game, which was also produced by Black Bear Pictures and for which he received an Academy Award nomination.

The film is set to have its international premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival. It opens in select theaters on Oct. 20 and will stream beginning. Nov. 3.

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Saturday night (Aug. 26) will go down in Grupo Firmes history as the group set a new record at the Feria Nacional Potosina with 300,000 fans in attendance at their concert, according to figures provided by the Coordinacion Estatal de Proteccion Civil in San Luis Potosi, Mexico. The numbers also represent a new record for the group, which in 2022 gathered around 250,000 people in Mexico Citys Zocalo.

However, what will remain etched in the memory of fans aside from the music is that frontman Eduin Caz shocked followers with a revelation about his health. In the last year, Caz underwent cancer surgery after suffering from Barretts esophagus, a condition associated with an increased risk of developing esophageal cancer.

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I gathered the best doctors, God bless, and I had the surgery, Caz said. I never revealed it because I dont like to be looked at like, Oh, poor thing. But I just had a study done and Im doing great.

He had a tumor and they removed it, a sign that we beat the cancer, Vicente Zambrano, Grupo Firmes publicist, clarified to Billboard Espanol on Monday (Aug. 28).

On July 30, Caz announced on social media as he celebrated his 30th birthday while touring in Costa Rica that once the trip was over he would take a break from his career but the group would remain intact. He did not specify the reason or how long he would take but said it was a personal matter.

I lost many things that are not coming back. The truth is that I balance out everything I have lived through, and honestly, that was how things had to happen, he said at the time. But I think I need to go back to putting myself first, and to feel good about myself.

Grupo Firmes temporary hiatus comes at the conclusion of its Hay Que Conectarla stadium tour, which began April 15 in Washington, D.C., and traveled through 13 cities across the U.S. The stint continued through Central America on July 14 in Guatemala through El Salvador, Honduras, Nicaragua and Costa Rica.

On Aug. 5, they performed at the Estadio Atanasio Girardot in Medellin, Colombia, for their only show in that country, where they had Maluma as their guest to perform the song Cada Quien, one of the many successful collaborations with which Grupo Firme helped put the regional Mexican genre on the global map.

On the Billboard charts, Grupo Firme reached No. 3 on Latin Airplay with Que Onda Perdida with Gerardo Coronel, which also topped the Regional Mexican Airplay chart for three weeks in July. Most recently, El Amor De Su Vida landed on the Billboard Global 200, where it debuted and peaked at No. 60 on the Aug. 19 chart.

On Oct. 5, Grupo Firme will compete for the Billboard Latin Music Award for tour of the year. To see the full list of 2023 finalists, click here.

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After weeks of speculation, Hawaiian Electric Company, which provides power to Lahaina, admitted that its power lines caused the first of two flare-ups in a field next to Lahaina Intermediate School. But, the company maintains it is not responsible for the fires that killed at least 115 people and left an unknown number of others missing, making them the deadliest in the U.S. in more than a century.

The statement came in response to a lawsuit filed Thursday by Maui County that claims the utility was supposed to properly maintain and repair the electric transmission lines, and other equipment including utility poles associated with their transmission of electricity, and to keep vegetation properly trimmed and maintained so as to prevent contact with overhead power lines and other electric equipment.

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Further, the suit says the electric company should have powered down its lines sooner, given the combination of very dry brush and very high winds. Today, Hawaiian Electric expressed disappointment at those claims.

We were surprised and disappointed that the County of Maui rushed to court even before completing its own investigation, Shelee Kimura, president and CEO of Hawaiian Electric said in a statement. We believe the complaint is factually and legally irresponsible. It is inconsistent with the path that we believe we should pursue as a resilient community committed and accountable to each other as well as to Hawaiis future. We continue to stand ready to work to that end with our communities and others. Unfortunately, the countys lawsuit may leave us no choice in the legal system but to show its responsibility for what happened that day.

The first blaze, which the electric company called The Morning Fire, reportedly occurred on August 8 near the intersection of Lahainaluna Road and Hookahua Street at approximately 6:30 a.m. A statement issued by Hawaiian Electric over the weekend maintains that videos taken by locals show a small fire that can be seen by the downed lines spread[ing] into the field across the street from the Intermediate School.

The utility maintains that the second flare-up that day, which it called The Afternoon Fire occurred while its employees were in the area repairing those downed lines, which were at that point powered off.

Shortly before 3 p.m., while the power remained off, our crew members saw a small fire about 75 yards away from Lahainaluna Road in the field near the Intermediate School. They immediately called 911 and reported that fire.

The crux of Hawaiian Electrics argument seems to be that the Maui County Fire Department had declared the morning fire out and left the scene by the time the 3 p.m. flareup occurred.

By 9 a.m. the Morning Fire was 100% contained,' the companys statement reads. The Maui County fire chief subsequently reported that the Fire Department had determined that the Morning Fire was extinguished, and the Fire Department left the scene by 2 p.m.

Electric companies have been subject to mounting lawsuits in recent years over accusations their power lines have been the cause of increasingly massive fires across the Western U.S. The state of Californias single most costly and most deadly wildfire in recorded history, the 2018 Camp Fire, was ignited by a faulty electric transmission line. Early the next year, the utility responsible for those lines, Pacific Gas and Electric, filed for bankruptcy, citing expected wildfire liabilities of $30 billion.

PG&E, the nations largest utility, also agreed to pay more than $55 million to avoid criminal prosecution for the 2020 Dixie Fire and the 2019 Kincade Fire, both sparked by its Northern California infrastructure.

In Southern California, the 2017 Thomas Fire in Ventura County, which burned a total of 281,893 acres, destroyed 1,063 structures and resulted in one civilian and one firefighter fatality, was determined to have been caused by SCEs equipment. Ditto the 2018 Woolsey wildfire which ripped through Agoura Hills and Malibu, killing three people and destroying 1,600 structures.

Earlier today, PG&E warned customers in seven Northern California counties that power shutoffs are likely on Wednesday due to the high danger of wildfires.

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Crisp & Green opens its first location in Iowa on Sept. 23.

Crisp & Green, the healthy salad restaurant out of Minnesota, opens its first location in Iowa on Sept. 23.

The restaurant takes over the former Kum & Go at Jordan Creek Parkway and Bridgewood Boulevard in West Des Moines, just west of Jordan Creek Town Center. Kum & Go moved its location north to 330 S. Jordan Creek Parkway,

The fast-casual restaurant specializes in salads, grain bowls and smoothies made from scratch.

Whats on the menu at Crisp & Green?

Healthy food is at the core of the menu at Crisp & Green.

Diners can order salads such as the BBQ Smokeshow with a barbecue chicken thigh tossed with roasted corn and poblano in a smoky barbecue ranch; a classic chicken Caesar with roasted chicken mixed with tomatoes and shaved Parmesan in a Caesar dressing; a Cinco de Light with queso fresco, pepitas, roasted corn, and a jalapeno lime vinaigrette; or the Thai & Stop Me with citrus shrimp, daikon radish, orange slices and a Thai peanut dressing.

Grain bowls start with brown rice and include options such as the AhhGreek Out with roasted chicken, Kalamata olives, feta, hummus, and pita chips with a lemon-herb vinaigrette and the Seoul Bowl with tofu, a spicy bibimbap sauce, sesame seeds, and a Korean chili cashew dressing.

Customers can also build their own bowl or salad.

The restaurant also offers acai bowls filled with fruits including bananas, strawberries, blueberries, and kiwi, as well as granola, acai sorbet, cashew butter, and more.

A roster of gluten-free and vegan smoothies includes the Big Island with bananas, pineapple, coconut milk, and vanilla pea protein; the Date Night with banana, Medjool date, almond butter, cacao nibs, and vanilla pea protein; or the Green Glow with banana, pineapple, mango, spinach, ginger, and plain pea protein.

Aguas frescas come in lemon with raspberry, pineapple and ginger, and pomegranate mixed with lemon.

CEO Steele Smiley founded Crisp & Green back in 2016 with the belief that a healthy lifestyle goes beyond the kitchen. Aside from healthy foods, Smiley provides wellness resources and events to create healthier, happier and stronger communities, he said in a news release.

Two additional locations are headed to Iowa as well.

Where will Crisp & Green be located?

Location: 141 S. Jordan Creek Pkwy., West Des Moines

Contact: crispandgreen.com

Susan Stapleton is the entertainment editor and dining reporter at The Des Moines Register. Follow her on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram, or drop her a line at sstapleton@gannett.com.

This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: Healthy restaurant Crisp & Green opens in West Des Moines on Sept. 23
Bohemian Grove is the Sonoma County, California campground where the Bohemian Club meets annually.

The elite men's club retreats reportedly involve heavy drinking and ban cell phones and cameras.

The San Francisco-based private club has counted a number of US presidents among its members.

Bohemian Grove is a place where strange things happen.



In June and July, some of the wealthiest and most powerful men in the country flock to the redwood grove in Sonoma County, California.

They're all members of the Bohemian Club, a private, all-male club that's counted US presidents, military officials, artists, and business leaders as members.

The Bohemian Grove grounds are dotted with camps bearing strange names  "Mandalay," "Lost Angels," "Isle of Aves," and "Silverado Squatters." Guests are welcome, but women and minors must leave at night.

A hollow concrete owl towers over the Grove's artificial lake, where prominent individuals often visit to give talks on pressing public policy matters.

During the first weekend of the summer encampment, robed figures sacrifice an effigy as part of a ritual meant to banish all worries from the gathered members. Over the years, a number of those gathered have happened to be US presidents.

A group of former valets who worked at Bohemian Grove's Monastery Camp in Monte Rio, California filed a complaint in June 2023 over labor violations and are seeking up to $1.5 million in damages. The suit alleges that club management "continually worked together to come up with methods to avoid paying payroll taxes and overtime."



Anthony Gregg, one of the plaintiffs, told Air Mail that its retreats involve a lot of drinking and partying, complete with cigars and hot chocolate spiked with horse tranquilizer, and likened its culture to a frat house.



"These guys, they don't want that college experience to go away," Gregg said. "Now they [just] have more money and better alcohol."

Take a look at the Bohemian Club's background some of its notable members.

The Bohemian Club is almost 150 years old

Wikimedia Commons

The traditions go back to the earliest days of the private gentlemen's club, which sprang up in 1872 in San Francisco. The Bohemian Club began renting the campground for an annual retreat, before buying it in 1899.

"You come upon it suddenly," poet and club member Will Irwin wrote of the Grove in 1908. "One step and its glory is over you."

Originally a cluster of newspaper writers who'd adopted a "bohemian lifestyle," the club expanded over time to include artists, businessmen, military leaders, and politicians.

While the club has diversified in terms of its members' professions, women have been barred from joining since its inception. A 1978 lawsuit did result in the Bohemian Club being required to hire female employees, however.

So how do you become one of the 2,500-odd members? Vanity Fair reported that you either need to snag invitations from several members, or languish for decades on the club's waiting list. You've also got to be prepared to drop $25,000 on your initiation fee.

G. William Domhoff , a University of California, Santa Cruz professor emeritus of psychology and sociology, has studied the Bohemian Club extensively.

In a post on the site Who Rules America? he described the Grove as "a place where the powerful relax, enjoy each other's company, and get to know some of the artists, entertainers, and professors who are included to give the occasion a thin veneer of cultural and intellectual pretension."

The motto of the Bohemian Club is "weaving spiders, come not here." It's a line from William Shakespeare's "A Midsummer Night's Dream," reflecting the idea is that members are not supposed to worry about work or business deals while at the club.

The activities at the Bohemian Grove have become increasingly controversial

Wikimedia Commons

Because of its secrecy, strange ceremonies, and elite body of members, the Bohemian Club has long been the subject of sinister online rumors. Right-wing conspiracy theorist Alex Jones even attempted to film a cremation ceremony there in 2000.

The Bohemian Grove has also attracted a number of protestors who aren't concerned with the allegedly occult aspects of the proceedings.

"The thing we should be concerned about is the lakeside talks," activist Mary Moore told Vice in 2011. " They are public policy talks, where these powerful people discuss and choose policy, but they do so in secrecy, with no public scrutiny."

A number of journalists have managed to infiltrate the campground  with mixed success. Alex Shoumatoff investigated reports the Club was illegally logging for Vanity Fair, and was caught and detained for trespassing.

Philip Weiss snuck into the Bohemian Grove in 1987 and spent a few days mingling with the rich and powerful as they attended speeches, boozed it up from breakfast to nightfall, and urinated on trees. He wrote about the strange experience for Spy magazine.

On Gawker, Sophie Weiner also described her own stint working as a dining server at the Grove in 2016. She described the retreat as a place where the elite could "engage in behavior that doesn't usually fly for people of their stature in the regular world."

While many politicians have attended Bohemian Grove functions, the number of presidents who were actually club members is seemingly greatly overstated. Calvin Coolidge and Gerald Ford, for example, are often erroneously cited as members.

Domhoff concluded that the Bohemian Club reveals that there is a "socially cohesive upper class" in the US, but the Grove activities are "harmless."

"The Grove encampment is a bunch of guys kidding around, drinking with their buddies, and trying to relive their youth, and often acting very silly," he wrote.

As president, Theodore Roosevelt accepted an honorary membership

Wikimedia Commons

Theodore Roosevelt was granted honorary club membership when he became president.

In a brief 1903 letter to Bohemian Club member Edgar D. Peixott, he expressed gratitude for the "honor conferred upon me." He also offered his regrets that he could not make it to a club function.

Herbert Hoover was an active and enthusiastic club member

Republican Presidential candiate Herbert Hoover is pictured at his desk in his Washington headquarters, 1928 AP

Hoover joined the Bohemian Club in 1913. By that point, he had amassed a fortune of $4 million in mining and engineering.

Hoover and a group of fellow Stanford alumni ultimately founded their own camp in the Bohemian Grove: the Cave Man Camp.

An abandoned statue of a caveman that had been previously used in a club production inspired the name, according to the book "Hoover, the Fishing President: Portrait of the Private Man and His Life Outdoors."

In "Ike and Dick: Portrait of a Strange Political Marriage," Jeffrey Frank writes Hoover always "treasured his membership" and was avid about scouting out new club recruits. In 1950, he invited then-congressman Richard Nixon on a trip to the Bohemian Grove.

Richard Nixon was recorded trashing the Bohemian Club on the Watergate tapes

In this March 15, 1973, file photo President Nixon tells a White House news conference that he will not allow his legal counsel, John Dean, to testify on Capitol Hill in the Watergate investigation and challenged the Senate to test him in the Supreme Court. Charles Tasnadi/AP

During his meet-up with Hoover at the Bohemian Grove in 1950, Nixon happened to bump into his future running mate, according to "Ike and Dick: Portrait of a Strange Political Marriage."

General Dwight D. Eisenhower was also there, meeting with the Cave Man Camp. Two years later, the pair would make up the Republican presidential ticket in 1952.

He would also go on to join the Cave Man Camp after becoming a member in 1953. Domhoff characterized the camp as "highly conservative," even for the Bohemian Club.

Nixon would also, reportedly, use his position in the Bohemian Club to launch his ultimately successful run for the White House.

According to the book "Kennedy, Johnson, and the Nonaligned World," Nixon delivered a Lakeside Speech to his fellow club members in July 1967. He outlined his ideas on American foreign policy, in what he called the "first milestone on my road to the presidency."

Domhoff wrote that Nixon also got verbal confirmation from club guest Ronald Reagan that he would not challenge him in the Republican primary that year.

According to Domhoff, Nixon was "so full of himself over the Bohemian Grove" that he wanted to give the lakeside talk in 1971. The idea of a sitting US president giving an off-the-record speech before a cluster of some of the most powerful people in the country sparked controversy in the press. The club leaders asked him to back out, and Nixon acquiesced.

But the Watergate tapes indicated that Nixon may have had mixed feelings about the Bohemian Club. He was recorded describing the Bohemian Grove activities using derogatory slurs.

Ronald Reagan avoided the Grove during the 1980 presidential election

Wikimedia Commons

Ronald Reagan was officially inducted into the Bohemian Club in 1975, the year before he tossed his hat into the 1976 presidential campaign.

He belonged to the Owl's Nest Camp, which he shared with execs from United Airlines and a number of other companies that were powerful in the 1970s.

During the 1980 presidential election, Reagan avoided the Bohemian Grove because he "discovered I might be an embarrassment to our fellow Bohemians because of the round-the-clock surveillance by the press. They camp down at my driveway these days," according to "Reagan: A Life in Letters."

In his Spy magazine expose, Weiss reported that he was able to meet with Reagan in the Owl's Nest Camp. They made some small talk, and Reagan off-handedly confirmed that he had assured Nixon he "wouldn't challenge him outright for the Republican nomination in 1968."

Weiss wrote that Reagan gave the lakeside talk that year and took questions from club members afterwards, during which he called for four year terms for Congress members and greater regulation of the press.

George H. W. Bush bunked with executives from influential companies

President-elect George H. W. Bush gestures while answering a question during his news conference, Wednesday, Nov. 9, 1988, Houston, Tex. AP/J. Scott Applewhite

George H.W. Bush joined the club in 1973, while chairing the Republican National Committee during the Watergate scandal.

Domhoff writes that Bush belonged to a camp called Hill Billies, along with top executives from Bank of America, General Motors, and Procter & Gamble.

Bush also brought along a future president as a guest on one trip to Bohemian Grove. He introduced his son  George W. Bush  at a lakeside talk in 1995, saying that he'd make a great president, according to Domhoff.

Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas reportedly attended a retreat with billionaire Harlan Crow

Getty Images

Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas is a member and has attended a Bohemian Grove retreat with billionaire real estate developer Harlan Crow, ProPublica reported.

Aside from engaging in heavy drinking, some guests have urinated in its surrounding redwood trees, according to Air Mail.

Guests are not allowed to bring cellphones or cameras, per Air Mail. They enjoy "gluttonous" and lavish four-course meals with plenty of wine at the Monastery Camp, as well as Manhattan cocktails and cigars.



The Bohemian Club didn't immediately respond to a request for comment from Insider, made outside normal working hours.



Do you have a tip about the Bohemian Club? Email jmann@insider.com

Read the original article on Insider
Value-focused investors are always on the hunt for stocks that are priced below their intrinsic value. One such stock that merits attention is Albemarle Corp (NYSE:ALB). The stock, which is currently priced at $195.39, recorded a gain of 3.03% in a day and a 3-month decrease of 4.68%. The stock's fair valuation is $487.15, as indicated by its GF Value.

Understanding the GF Value

The GF Value represents the current intrinsic value of a stock derived from our exclusive method. The GF Value Line on our summary page gives an overview of the fair value that the stock should be traded at. It is calculated based on three factors: historical multiples (PE Ratio, PS Ratio, PB Ratio and Price-to-Free-Cash-Flow) that the stock has traded at, GuruFocus adjustment factor based on the company's past returns and growth, and future estimates of the business performance.

We believe the GF Value Line is the fair value that the stock should be traded at. The stock price will most likely fluctuate around the GF Value Line. If the stock price is significantly above the GF Value Line, it is overvalued and its future return is likely to be poor. On the other hand, if it is significantly below the GF Value Line, its future return will likely be higher.

Is Albemarle (ALB) Too Good to Be True? A Comprehensive Analysis of a Potential Value Trap

Unpacking the Risks

However, investors need to consider a more in-depth analysis before making an investment decision. Despite its seemingly attractive valuation, certain risk factors associated with Albemarle should not be ignored. These risks are primarily reflected through its low and a Beneish M-Score of -1.47 that exceeds -1.78, the threshold for potential earnings manipulation. These indicators suggest that Albemarle, despite its apparent undervaluation, might be a potential value trap. This complexity underlines the importance of thorough due diligence in investment decision-making.

Story continues

Decoding the Beneish M-Score

Developed by Professor Messod Beneish, the Beneish M-Score is based on eight financial variables that reflect different aspects of a company's financial performance and position. These are Days Sales Outstanding (DSO), Gross Margin (GM), Total Long-term Assets Less Property, Plant and Equipment over Total Assets (TATA), change in Revenue (?REV), change in Depreciation and Amortization (?DA), change in Selling, General and Admin expenses (?SGA), change in Debt-to-Asset Ratio (?LVG), and Net Income Less Non-Operating Income and Cash Flow from Operations over Total Assets (?NOATA).

Inside Albemarle Corp (NYSE:ALB)

Albemarle is the world's largest lithium producer, with robust demand predicted due to increased demand for electric vehicle batteries. The company produces lithium from its salt brine deposits in Chile and the U.S., and its hard rock joint venture mines in Australia. Albemarle is also a global leader in the production of bromine, used in flame retardants, and a major producer of oil refining catalysts.

Is Albemarle (ALB) Too Good to Be True? A Comprehensive Analysis of a Potential Value Trap

Assessing the Gross Margin

The Gross Margin index tracks the evolution of a company's gross profit as a proportion of its revenue. A downward trend could indicate issues such as overproduction or more generous credit terms, both of which are potential red flags for earnings manipulation. By examining the past three years of Albemarle's historical data (2021: 31.95; 2022: 34.98; 2023: 40.15), we find that its Gross Margin has contracted by 6.86%. Such a contraction in the gross margin can negatively impact the company's profitability as it signifies lesser income from each dollar of sales. This could put a strain on the company's capacity to manage operating costs, potentially undermining its financial stability.

Is Albemarle (ALB) Too Good to Be True? A Comprehensive Analysis of a Potential Value Trap

Interpreting the SG&A Expenses

The change in Selling, General, and Administrative (SG&A) expenses provides insight into a company's operational costs, encompassing expenses related to selling products and managing the business. Examining Albemarle's SG&A data over the past three years (2021: 435.70; 2022: 468.29; 2023: 834.01), an unexpected decrease may raise eyebrows. While reducing these expenses can be a sign of improved efficiency, an abrupt or unexplained decrease might indicate cost-cutting measures taken to artificially inflate earnings. By selectively reducing SG&A expenses, a company can create the illusion of higher profitability and operational efficiency. However, if these reductions are achieved by neglecting essential functions like marketing, customer service, or quality control, it might result in long-term negative effects on the company's growth, reputation, and sustainability. Hence, a decrease in SG&A must be carefully evaluated within the broader context of the company's strategy, industry norms, and competitive landscape to determine if it signals potential earnings manipulation or a legitimate improvement in operational efficiency.

Scrutinizing the TATA Ratio

The TATA (Total Accruals to Total Assets) ratio, calculated as the Net Income less Non-Operating Income and Cash Flow from Operations, divided by Total Assets, is a key indicator of the quality of a company's earnings. For Albemarle, the current TATA ratio (TTM) stands at 0.056. A positive TATA ratio can be a warning sign, suggesting that the earnings are composed more of accruals rather than cash flow, which could be an indication of aggressive income recognition. Accrual accounting permits management some discretion in recognizing revenue and expenses, and a company intent on artificially boosting its earnings might exploit this flexibility. In essence, a higher TATA ratio might mean that the company's reported income is not as firmly grounded in real cash earnings, signaling poor quality of earnings, potentially resulting from accounting gimmicks or financial engineering rather than true operational performance. Investors and analysts should examine the components of the TATA ratio closely, especially when the value is positive, to understand the underlying drivers and assess whether it might indicate a need for more detailed scrutiny of the company's financial practices.

Conclusion

While Albemarle's attractive valuation might draw investors, the potential risks identified in this analysis suggest that the company might be a value trap. The company's Beneish M-Score, contraction in Gross Margin, decrease in SG&A expenses, and a positive TATA ratio all raise red flags, pointing towards potential earnings manipulation. Therefore, despite the apparent undervaluation, thorough due diligence is necessary before making an investment decision.

To find out the high-quality companies that may deliver above-average returns, please check out GuruFocus High Quality Low Capex Screener.

This article first appeared on GuruFocus.


A Virginia rapper by the name of Gutta pursued Future in 2021 for copyright infringement, in which he claimed that Pluto copied his song When U Think About It, with his track When I Think About It.

Now U.S. District Judge Martha Pacold has thrown out the case, deeming that although the songs share similar themes, there is no basis of comparison within their compositions.

According to Complex, on Aug. 25, the judge ruled that the titles When U Think About It and When I Think About It lacked uniqueness for copyright protection, as both tracks use everyday vernacular consistently found in popular Hip-Hop music.

Reportedly during the hearing, the judge cited other examples of songs that share the same themes of guns, money, and jewelry. Pacold mentioned Biggies Machine Gun Funk, Wu-Tang Clans C.R.E.A.M., and Kanye Wests Diamonds from Sierra Leone.

Outside of Hip-Hop, she also cited the folk-rock group Crosby, Stills, Nash & Youngs 1970 hit Our House to explain how Guttas idea about core lyrics doesnt hold weight in this particular case.

The core lyric, our house is a very, very, very fine house, is used to support the entire rest of the song, which uses the house and its constituent elements as the setting for the narrators relationship, Pacold reportedly stated.

This songwriting technique is not unique to Robinson, nor mid-century Canadian-American bands that feature intricate vocal harmonies, she continued. The mere use of a core lyric to support a songs storyline is not protectable element because it is a frequently utilized technique in popular songwriting.

Gutta claimed to have sent over When U Think About It in 2017 to rapper Doe Boy and producer Zaytoven, who he claimed were associated with Futures music label. However, neither Doe Boy nor the super-producer were named in the lawsuit.

When I Think About It appears on Futures 2018 mixtape Beastmode 2, produced by Zaytoven.

Take a listen to When U Think About It above and Futures When I Think About It below.

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Killers of the Flower Moon will release in movie theaters simultaneously around the globe in late October, shrugging off a planned limited release earlier that month.

Apple Studios announced Tuesday that Martin Scorseses opus, starring Leonardo DiCaprio and Lily Gladstone , will hit cineplexes Oct. 20, with a streaming debut on Apple TV+ to follow at an undetermined date. This pivots from a previously announced limited rollout set for Oct. 6. Paramount Pictures is partnering with the tech monolith on distribution.

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While reasoning for the scuttled limited release was not disclosed, Hollywood continues to struggle through dual union strikes with no immediate end in sight. Should SAG-AFTRA and the AMPTP be unable to reach an agreement, Scorseses all-star cast will not be able to promote the big-budget crime thriller. A splashy wide release could benefit Killers at a time when movies of all scopes and budget ranges have struggled to pop in limited release, the only notable winner since the pandemic being Oscar winner Everything Everywhere All at Once. Apple and Paramount will likely gain more momentum with a strong global push.

Killers is the story of a killing spree backed by white settlers targeting the wealthy Osage Nation of Oklahoma, who are in possession of priceless oil fields. The film was pre-ordained with awards favorability even before its strong May debut at the Cannes Film Festival, where it earned a nine-minute standing ovation. The film teams DiCaprio once again with Scorsese mainstay Robert De Niro. Indie heat-seeker Gladstone (Certain Women, Fancy Dance) received glowing notices for her breakout performance.

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Latinx and Hispanic people on TikTok are reclaiming the expression no sabo, which has often been used to jokingly chastise them about their lack of language skills.

A so-called no sabo kid is a child who comes from a Latin or Hispanic family and speaks little to no Spanish. Because of this, they can sometimes be treated as an outsider to the culture  despite having all the other stereotypical characteristics of a Hispanic or Latinx person.

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Normally in Spanish, you would say No sabo to say that I dont know, but its an irregular verb, so you say No se, said Jordan Darko, founder of language company Yo!Spanish (@yospanishofficial). Hence the No sabo is kind of like making fun of somebody.

Oftentimes, these children are born in the United States and assimilate into American culture  which happens more frequently as generations of immigrant households acclimate to the United States.

According to Pew Research Center data, second-generation Latinx parents speak Spanish 14% less than their parents did  adding to the language barrier.

However, as these children continue to be called out for being an alleged no sabo kid, some are taking back the power of the word.

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Its actually so refreshing to see more first-generation Latino kids be a bit more receptive and trying to reclaim being a no sabo kid, Marlene Ramir (@marlene.ramir), a first-generation Mexican American, said. Its so frustrating to be met with these accusations of not being too Latino enough because you dont speak perfect Spanish. Were no sabo. And?

Many commenters felt similarly to Ramir and her reasoning behind why its OK to not be fully fluent in Spanish.

Its also a survival mechanism to have to assimilate to the culture dictated by your environment, replied @elgatogus.

In an article for Refinery29, Mexican American writer Jacqueline Delgadillo argued why reclaiming the term is an important thing to do.

Language proficiency is another form of gatekeeping Latinidad, she wrote. As its been said time and time again, Latinxs are not a monolith  so why do we continue to uphold strict criteria of what it means to be Latinx?

Figuring out how to navigate language in a Hispanic or Latinx family can be difficult for some if they dont speak perfect Spanish, but some TikTokers have come up with ways to protect themselves in uncomfortable situations.

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Mexican American TikToker Ana Saia (@saianana) created a post explaining how to survive a family reunion as a no sabo kid. In her post, she advises people to use simple Spanish phrases that can keep the conversation moving and pretend to answer a call from their mother if they run out of things to say.

I needed this growing up, replied @cloi_art.

As no sabo kids grow up and examine their relationship to their heritage, many are becoming more comfortable with freeing themselves from unwanted blame.

In The Know by Yahoo is now available on Apple News  follow us here!

The post Latina woman opens up about 1st-generation Latinos reclaiming the term no sabo appeared first on In The Know.

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Its basically a national holiday when Le Creuset cookware goes on sale. So, start celebrating because the brands famous Dutch Ovens are up to 40% off on Amazon for Prime Day  and theyre likely to sell out fast.

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The signature 5.5. dutch oven is available in dozens of vibrant shades, from stunning red to a bold Lapis hue. For Prime Day, its on sale for $349, down from its usual $420 price tag.

In the close to a century that Le Creuset has been around, no other brand has been able to compete with the French companys enameled cookware. The cast iron dutch oven, which made its debut in 1925, remains the top bestseller, beloved for its unparalleled heat retention thats ideal for simmering, boiling, deep frying, baking, roasting and slow cooking. The cast iron build is impervious to acid, alkali, odors and stains and requires no seasoning.

But on top of its versatility and functionality in the kitchen  revered by professional chefs and home cooks alike  is its utilitarian beauty, able to move effortlessly from stovetop to oven to table. The lid that creates an even blanket of heat in the oven features a gleaming, gold-finished knob and its durable finish resists chipping, cracking, crazing and scratching.

If you arent in the market for a dutch oven, some of Le Creusets other top-selling cookware is also on sale on Amazon , including their classic cast iron hand skillet (17% off).

Shop Le Creusets full Prime Day sale on Amazon, and check out the deep cast iron dutch oven below:

Signature 5.5 Qt. Quart Cast Iron Dutch Oven (17% Off)

Le Creuset Enameled Cast Iron Signature Round Dutch Oven, 5.5 qt., Cerise

Price: $419.95 $349.80

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Love Island U.S.A. couple Carmen Kocourek and Kenzo Nudo sparked a connection almost instantly, causing suspicion the couple already knew each other prior to their time on the show. After finishing in fourth place on the August 27 finale, are Carmen and Kenzo still together?

What Challenges Did Carmen and Kenzo Face in the Love Island U.S.A. Villa?

Carmen is a nanny and model from Scottsdale, Arizona, who entered the villa on day three alongside fellow bombshell and first-place finisher, Hannah Wright. While she was initially coupled up with Victor Gonzalez, the Spanish wrestler did not like it when she began to show interest in Carsten Bergie Bergersen.

After Kenzo arrived on day 10, he quickly gravitated toward Carmen as she was his usual type. When I came in, Carmen was the first one that caught my eye. Like, right away, the Mexico native told producers in a private confessional. And so I think that chemistry right there that just started, its almost like set a fire and it just hasnt gone away.

Did Carmen and Kenzo Know Each Other Outside of Love Island U.S.A.?

Carmen and Kenzo quickly formed a bond upon meeting in the villa; however, fans were convinced the pair had already met due to him being from the same city in Arizona and seemingly working out at the same gym.

Kenzos brother directly addressed the claims from Kenzos Instagram while he was in the villa. Kenzo never knew Carmen prior to the show and he stopped going to that gym months before, he wrote in a statement on August 15. And regarding them following each other before Love Island aired is not true. Whoever runs Carmens page started following Kenzo when they first coupled up.

Love Island U.S.A. Are Carmen and Kenzo Still Together?

When the pair was separated during Casa Amor, Kenzo and Carmen werent tempted by any of the attractive new islanders and opted to sleep outside in respect of their partners. Rumors continued to ignite during their final date after Kenzo joked to Carmen that he could see her as his wife and wished he brought an engagement ring to Fiji.

Wife? Shouldve bought a ring? Im starting to think the rumors about Kenzo and Carmen being together before the villa are true, one user tweeted. Another added, Theres no way Kenzos said hes ready to ask Carmen to marry him soon??? They really are scammers.

Are Love Island U.S.A. Carmen and Kenzo Still Together?

After finishing in fourth place on the August 27 final, Carmen and Kenzo are still together. The pair traveled from Fiji and returned to Los Angeles together.

We are back, Kenzo shared on August 28, alongside a picture of Carmen affectionally hugging him.
Lupita Nyongo is remembering her Black Panther co-star Chadwick Boseman on his death anniversary.

In a touching tribute, Nyongo shared a black and white photo of Boeman as they arrived in South Korea in 2018.

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Three years ago today, I experienced a singular pain at the news of @chadwickbosemans death. The confusion was so profound that it took months to trust the feeling of joy again, she wrote.

She continued, This is a photo I took on film at the airport as we arrived in South Korea in 2018. We had just learned to do the baby heart with our fingers. Here Chadwick was adding his suave flare. We spent a glorious 72 hours there, and the memory fills me with so much joy.

Boseman died on August 28, 2020, of colon cancer following a four-year private battle against the disease.

Death is hard to understand, maybe even harder to accept. But the love generated from the life he lived will fuel every anniversary marking his absence, Nyongo added. Chadwick may no longer be in our photos, but he will always be in our hearts.

Letitia Wright also honored Boseman sharing a video on her Instagram Stories and captioning, Always Celebrating You King. Love Always. Wright played TChallas sister in the Marvel film and had a close connection with the actor. In the video Wright reshared, Boseman, Angela Bassett and Danai Gurira appear in a photo shoot. Wright had originally posted the video back in November 2022.

Daniel Kaluuya also took to Instagram Stories to share a throwback photo that features Gurira and Boseman.

Letitia Wright and Daniel Kaluuya remember Chadwick Boseman

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Lupita Nyongo and others took to social media on Monday to honor the late Black Panther star Chadwick Boseman on the third anniversary of his death.

The 12 Years a Slave Oscar winner shared on her Instagram a personal black and white image of Boseman at an airport in South Korea from 2018, reflecting that she felt a singular pain at the news of his death three years ago and remembering that the confusion was so profound that it took months to trust the feeling of joy again.

But the post wasnt meant for Nyongo to mourn; instead, she celebrated his life and the joys that they shared together.

This is a photo I took on film at the airport as we arrived in South Korea in 2018. We had just learned to do the baby heart with our fingers. Here Chadwick was adding his suave flare, she wrote. We spent a glorious 72 hours there, and the memory fills me with so much joy.

Death is hard to understand, maybe even harder to accept, she continued. But the love generated from the life he lived will fuel every anniversary marking his absence.

Nyongo concluded that Chadwick may no longer be in our photos, but he will always be in our hearts.

Black Panther costar Letitia Wright also posted to her Instagram story to commemorate the three-year anniversary, writing simply, Always celebrating you king. Love always x. Her post linked back to an Instagram Reel from November 2022 showing a behind-the-scenes video of Boseman and Wright with fellow costars Angela Bassett and Danai Gurira.

Made with love, for love and love always. It belongs to you now, I pray it helps you on your path, that post read. Youre always in our hearts bro.

And in a particularly moving tribute to the late actor, Bosemans widow, Simone Ledward Boseman, also posted to her personal Instagram, sharing a poetic entry to what she wrote were excerpts from a notebook.

When the angels came and sought him, they found him by my side. There where his feet had brought him, I was his, and he was mine, she wrote. Loving you into the ether, beyond the beyond, forever my guiding light.

Commenting on Nyongos post on Monday, Emmy winner Kerry Washington also extended her love on the anniversary: We miss him dearly. Sending you love, she wrote.

Boseman died Aug. 28, 2020, at age 43 following a four-year fight with colon cancer.

A true fighter, Chadwick persevered through it all, and brought you many of the films you have come to love so much, a family statement read at the time. From Marshall to Da 5 Bloods, August Wilsons Ma Raineys Black Bottom and several more  all were filmed during and between countless surgeries and chemotherapy. It was the honor of his career to bring King TChalla to life in Black Panther.'

Following his death, Ryan Cooglers Marvel sequel Black Panther: Wakanda Forever was rewritten to chart the aftermath of the death of Bosemans character, TChalla, and ultimately served as a timeless tribute to both the actor and the character in ways both entertaining and affecting, TheWrap wrote in its review.

The post Lupita Nyongo Honors Chadwick Boseman With Black and White Photo on Anniversary of Death: I Experienced a Singular Pain appeared first on TheWrap.
Lupita Nyong'o paid tribute to her late "Black Panther" co-star Chadwick Boseman , seen here at the 2019 SAG Awards, on the three-year anniversary of his death. (Jordan Strauss / Invision/Associated Press)

Lupita Nyong'o says she didn't trust the feeling of joy for months after her "Black Panther" co-star Chadwick Boseman died.

Marking the three-year anniversary of Boseman's passing, the Oscar winner reflected on the "singular pain" she felt upon learning of his tragic death.

Read more: Lupita Nyong'o didn't want Chadwick Boseman recast in 'Black Panther' sequel either

"The confusion was so profound that it took months to trust the feeling of joy again," she wrote Monday on Instagram, sharing a sentimental photo of the "42" and "Get On Up" star.

"This is a photo I took on film at the airport as we arrived in South Korea in 2018. We had just learned to do the baby heart with our fingers. Here Chadwick was adding his suave flare . We spent a glorious 72 hours there, and the memory fills me with so much joy," she added.

"Death is hard to understand, maybe even harder to accept. But the love generated from the life he lived will fuel every anniversary marking his absence," she wrote."Chadwick may no longer be in our photos, but he will always be in our hearts."

Read more: Read 'Black Panther' director Ryan Coogler's moving tribute to Chadwick Boseman

The magnetic actor who brought the trailblazing Marvel superhero to the big screen died in August 2020 after a private, four-year battle with colon cancer.

Boseman was first diagnosed with Stage 3 colon cancer in 2016, the same year he made his debut as comics superhero King TChalla, a.k.a. Black Panther, in "Captain America: Civil War." He died at age 43 when the "Black Panther" sequel, "Wakanda Forever," was still in its early stages, necessitating new drafts of the project. (The Oscar-nominated actor also died without a will.)

Nyong'o, who played the Wakandan spy Nakia and T'Challah's love interest in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, said that she supported Marvels decision not to recast the titular superhero after Boseman's unexpected death.

Read more: Review: In the shadow of grief, 'Wakanda Forever' forges messily but valiantly ahead

"Losing your centerpiece, everything changed, she said in a Hollywood Reporter interview published in October 2022. When you say the world rotated around him, it revolved around him, it did.

"That is not the death of the Black Panther, thats the whole point," Nyong'o said. "It's laying to rest [T'Challa] and allowing for real life to inform the story of the movies. I know that there are all sorts of reasons why people want him to be recast, but I don't have the patience. I don't have the presence of mind, or I dont have the objectivity to argue with that. I dont. Im very biased."

Nyongo's Nakia made a pivotal appearance in a post-credits scene of "Black Panther: Wakanda Forever" that all but ensured that T'Challa's legacy would live on in the billion-dollar franchise.

Boseman's widow, Taylor Simone Ledward, also marked Aug. 28 with a post on Instagram. She captioned it with an excerpt from a notebook and accompanied it with a photo and video of Boseman and an image showing a wrist tattoo of a light bulb with a halo over it.

"when the angels came and sought him / they found him by my side / there where his feet had brought him / i was his, and he was mine / loving you into the ether, beyond the beyond," she wrote. "forever my guiding light"

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
The post Megadeths Dave Mustaine Reveals Hes Moving to Italy appeared first on Consequence.

Megadeth mastermind Dave Mustaine has revealed that hes purchased property in Italy and will be relocating to the country.

During Megadeths performance at the AMA Music Festival on Sunday (August 27th) in Vicenza, Italy, Mustaine told the audience about his moving plans and the new home he just purchased on the peninsula.

I have something very special I need to tell you guys A couple of weeks ago I just bought a house in Italy, Mustaine said [as transcribed by Blabbermouth]. So think about that  you wake up tomorrow morning and you see me out your window, and Im walking with my boxes. And you go, Fuck, man, that looks like Dave Mustaine. Look at all those guitars. Shit, thats gotta be him.'

He continued, Ive gotta tell you, I am so excited to be able to call Italy a new place for us to live. And I wanna thank you all for your graciousness and helping teach me how to be a good resident here and to learn how to live the Italian life.

Clearly feeling the love from his soon-to-be neighbors, Mustaine would later stop the show to emphasize that he really is moving to Italy.

What I said about me moving over here is true, he added. And Im really excited to live in Italy when we do. Were gonna keep our residency in the States, but we are gonna be living here. And we really look forward to meeting a lot of you. And I think were gonna have a lot of fun together.

Mustaine has resided in the Nashville area for just under a decade. During that time, he recorded Megadeths latest album The Sick, the Dying and the Dead! at a nearby studio in Franklin, Tennessee.

The thrash legend does have business ties in Italy. His boutique wine brand, House of Mustaine, recently expanded to Le Marche, Italy, after being founded in Southern California.

Meanwhile, fans in North America will be able to catch Mustaine when Megadeth kick off a month-long run of tour dates in early September. Tickets are available here.

Below you can watch Dave Mustaine and Megadeth at the AMA Music Festival.

Megadeths Dave Mustaine Reveals Hes Moving to Italy

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Al Maha Petroleum Products Marketing recently signed a supply agreement with Now Fuel Company, Saudi Arabia, for the supply of Ampro Lubricants to Saudi markets.

The agreement was signed for Al Maha by the CEO Hamed bin Salim Al Maghdri and for Now Fuel by the CEO Mohammed bin Hamad Al-Qarawi, in the presence of Dr Saleh bin Said Masan, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion, and other top management members of both companies.

Maghdri underscored Al Mahas commitment to establish professional collaborations that propel regional business growth. Now Fuel has the right experience and expertise to sell our products in these markets, he said.

Suitable partner

Al-Qarawi said his company had been looking for a suitable Omani partner for sourcing, marketing and selling lubricants and found the right choice in Al Maha Petroleum, who are well established in the business for the past 30 years.

Both entities, with their invaluable experience and complementary strengths, are poised to cover the regional lubricants landscape, driving innovation and superior service for discerning customers.-- TradeArabia News Service
AI  the tech that's everywhere and touching everything  keeps evolving at a pace thats surprising even in an industry where change is just about the only constant. Its complicated, unregulated, thrilling and unnerving all at once.

At TechCrunch Disrupt 2023, were dedicating a day and a stage to this galloping industry  and today were announcing that the AI Stage agenda is 100% complete! (Go here for the full Disrupt agenda.)

Youll hear from heads of major companies pivoting to AI, smaller startups determined to change the status quo, skeptics questioning its ethics, and investors looking to back winners. Do we even know what winning at AI looks like yet?

The complete AI Stage agenda at TechCrunch Disrupt 2023

Big Fish, Little Pond: Can Investors Make 10-Figure AI Valuations Pay Off in Markets No One Is Sure Exist?

Everyone seems to have agreed that AI will revolutionize tech, but so far the kind of revenue and deals that would justify billion-dollar valuations are scarce. How do venture capitalists and institutional investors envision the next few years playing out  and paying out?

With Miles Grimshaw, general partner, Benchmark; Sonya Huang, partner, Sequoia Capital; and Saam Motamedi, partner, Greylock.

Stronger, Faster . . . Safer? Anthropic co-founder Dario Amodei on Letting AI Find Its Best Self

Is it possible for AI to be built ethically, to operate safely, yet remain useful and perhaps even profitable? Anthropic aims to thread this needle by moving slow and avoiding breakage  and it has raised hundreds of millions to do so. Co-founder and CEO Dario Amodei speaks about taking on the most complex software ever attempted with one hand tied behind his back.

With Dario Amodei, co-founder and CEO, Anthropic.

The Next AI Evolution Moves into Your Hands

Thousands of generative AI applications have bloomed over the past year, with large language models (LLMs) gaining the most buzz. In the next year, many of those applications will start to run on phones and PCs rather than in the public cloud. Join Qualcomms Alex Katouzian and partners to find out when and how generative AI will shift to devices in your hands, and what applications are likely to make the first move.

Story continues

Presented by Qualcomm Incorporated.

Can AI Be Ethical?

Theres palpable excitement around AI, especially generative AI. But like many technological breakthroughs, these tools aren't perfect, and they can cause serious harm when deployed irresponsibly. Generative AI has the potential to reshape our workflows and drive innovation, yet it can also power misinformation and IP theft. Policymakers around the world are grappling with the implications of AI, as will this panel, which will explore tensions in the AI space and how they can be responsibly mitigated.

With Kathy Baxter, principal architect, Responsible AI and Tech, Salesforce, Chloe Bakalar, Chief Ethicist, Meta and Camille Crittenden, executive director, CITRIS and the Banatao Institute.

AI in the Cloud

Thomas Kurian became Google Cloud's CEO in 2019 and early in his tenure, he made a major bet on AI. Today, Google Cloud offers numerous foundation models for developers and AI-enabled tools in Google Workspace and wants to build an open ecosystem of AI partners. We'll talk to Kurian about all of this, as well as what's next for Google Cloud and AI in general.

With Thomas Kurian, CEO, Google Cloud

How AI Can Both Accelerate and Slow Down the Disinformation Economy

The threat of AI-generated disinformation, or just plain spam, is on everyones minds. We know language models can dish it out, but can they also hold it back? This panel will explore the risks and potential solutions as an election year looms.

With Gordon Crovitz, co-CEO, NewsGuard; and Andy Parsons, senior director, Content Authenticity Initiative, Adobe.

Navigating the Evolving Landscape of Robotics, AI and Self-Driving Cars

Whats happening in robotics, artificial intelligence and autonomous navigation? Experts provide context and insights on a variety of fronts, including pure-play L4 and ADAS-first approaches for self-driving cars. Plus, theyll discuss the proliferation of AI-driven development beyond the automotive field, including mining, drones and the path toward robotics automation at large.

With Vitaly Golomb, partner, Drake Star; Gary Silberg, partner and Global Automotive Sector leader, KPMG; and Vlad Voroninski, co-founder and CEO, Helm.ai. Presented by Helm.ai.

Lights, Camera, Algorithm! Where AI Fits into Movies, Games and Creativity

The Hollywood writers strike provides a timely background for this panel on how AI tools and platforms can be integrated into the creative process in filmmaking, game development, and other media.

With John Spitzer, vice president of Developer and Performance Technology, Nvidia; and Tye Sheridan, co-founder and president, Wonder Dynamics.

AI Can Write Words  but Can It Understand Them?

Text-generating AI is the hot new thing in tech. But while its proven to be a major productivity boost for some, its far from perfect. Generative text AI has biases and, depending on the model, a tendency to generate toxic content  or even confidently make up facts. Our panelists will discuss these limitations and more as investments in generative AI pick up steam.

With May Habib, co-founder and CEO, Writer; and Ofir Krakowski, co-founder and CEO, Deepdub.

Winning with AI: Real-World Case Studies of AI-Powered Supply Chain and CPG Industries

Artificial Intelligence is retooling supply chains and reshaping consumer experiences. This fireside chat unveils pioneering AI case studies that showcase how industry leaders create unprecedented value by leveraging AI. Discover winning AI strategies that tackle complex operational challenges and drive competitive advantage. The future belongs to those who harness AIs transformative potential. This session provides the roadmap you need to be an industry trailblazer.

With Binny Gill, founder and CEO, Kognitos; Jim McCullen, chief information officer, Century Supply Chain Solutions. Presented by Kognitos.

Session Coming Soon

Presented by Social Discovery Group.

TechCrunch Disrupt 2023 runs September 1921 in San Francisco. Buy your pass now and save up to $400. Passes cost more at the door.

Is your company interested in sponsoring or exhibiting at TechCrunch Disrupt 2023? Contact our sponsorship sales team by filling out this form.
MrBeast appears onstage to accept the award for favorite male creator at the Nickelodeon Kids Choice Awards at Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles. | Richard Shotwell, Invision, Associated Press

MrBeast had been labeled a white savior by some charity organizations over a YouTube video in which the social media star restores an African orphanage, despite a global campaign to shut orphanages down.

The term white savior refers to a trope commonly found in movies in which a white character is portrayed as a messiah-figure who liberates non-white people from dire circumstances, per The Atlantic. MrBeast was previously branded a white savior after he provided shoes for children in Africa.

Despite ongoing criticism for his philanthropy efforts, MrBeast has not halted his monthly YouTube clips on Beast Philanthropy, which features videos such as We Brought Water to Kenya and I Helped 2000 Amputees Walk Again.

In the recent Beast Philanthropy YouTube video, titled We Adopted an Orphanage, MrBeast talks about how he saved a deteriorating orphanage in Africa from shutting down. The video claims that the children living at Baphumelele were about to lose their only family.

To ensure this doesnt happen, we spent the last six months working tirelessly so that these kids have a safe and clean environment to live in, MrBeast explains in the video.

The clip features several before and after images of the newly restored orphanage as well as the children experiencing their updated home for the first time.

Thank you so much for bringing dignity to these children because it has boosted their self-esteem. They live in a better, better place, Mama Rosie, who runs Baphumelele, says in the YouTube clip.

But the YouTube video  which has already received more than 9.7 million views  sparked backlash from charity Hope and Homes for Children, which claims the video was merely a ploy for more views, reported the Daily Mail.

A global effort to get kids out of orphanages and into homes is backed by UNICEF, the United Nations and the European Union, reports The Associated Press. Children in orphanages often face horrific circumstances such as a lack of food, beating, overcrowding and humiliation  and many of them are not orphans, but taken from their families due to poverty.

Lourenza Foghill, from Hope and Homes for Children, accused MrBeast of choosing to completely ignore these global efforts, per the Daily Mail.

Is it a classic case of white saviorism? Arguably yes, but one thing is for sure, Mr.Beast is denying the so-called orphans from Baphumele their right to grow up in a family, Foghill added.

The Lumos Foundation, of which J.K. Rowling is president, also commented on MrBeasts latest video.

Related

Many orphanages across the world are set up to exploit children for profit, exposing children to harm and abuse. By promoting orphanages, even well-intentioned ones, we promote the work of those that are not, continuing the cycle of exploitation, Lumos wrote in a statement.

We do not believe that anyone in the video has bad intentions including Mama Rosie and MrBeast, the statement continued. But if we are going to support children in the best way possible, we need to move away from promoting the orphanage system and start supporting families with community-based care, so that their children can remain where they belong.

MrBeast has not responded to any of these comments.

MrBeast called demonic after paying for people to get cataracts surgery

In February, MrBeast was called demonic after paying for 1,000 people to receive cataracts surgery to restore their sight.

In his YouTube video called 1,000 blind people see for the first time, MrBeast shows how he provided money for cataract surgery for people in the U.S., Mexico, Honduras, Kenya, Jamaica, Indonesia, Brazil and more.

Dr. Jeff Levenson, who performed the cataract surgery in MrBeasts video, explained that Half of all blindness in the world is people who need a 10 minute surgery. People do not get the surgery because they either cannot afford it or do not have access to it.

This is the real reason we are doing this, blindness can take away parts of your life, MrBeast explained after speaking with a man who is homebound and cannot drive due to his blindness.

His video sparked a divide on the ethics that drive philanthropy and what motivates MrBeasts good deeds. Some people are labeling the YouTube star demonic and others claim he exploits people for content, they believe he acts for financial gain.

He uses vulnerable and desperate people for content. Im glad 1000 people can see now. Doesnt make him a good person, one person tweeted.

There is something so demonic about this and I cant even articulate what it is pic.twitter.com/OSpgaUxnQK  Lolo (@LolOverruled) January 29, 2023

The internet piled on the backlash by accusing the YouTube star of exploit(ing) people for personal financial gain, and having demonic energy.

Related

How has MrBeast responded to his critics?

MrBeast rarely addresses his critics, but in a post on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter, he claimed he has plans to donate all his money throughout his life and poked fun at the backlash he has received on X.

Twitter - Rich people should help others with their money



Me - Okay, Ill use my money to help people and I promise to give away all my money before I die. Every single penny.



Twitter - MrBeast bad  MrBeast (@MrBeast) January 30, 2023

There might be no stopping this YouTube star-turned-philanthropist from donating his money. He reportedly has no intentions of keeping his fortune all to himself.

The 24-year-old YouTuber previously declared on X: I promise Im dying with 0 dollars in my bank account and I refuse to live a materialistic life.

I want to build other channels like beast gaming and beast reacts so I can run my main channel at a loss and grow as big as possible. And then use my main channels influence to one day open hundreds of homeless shelters/food banks and give away all the money, MrBeast wrote in another tweet from 2020.

Thats my gameplan and if you dont believe me, just watch. I promise Im dying with 0 dollars in my bank account and I refuse to live a materialistic life.  MrBeast (@MrBeast) August 10, 2020
Nicholas Hitchon, whose life was chronicled in the celebrated British Up documentary films from a precocious age 7 in 1964 to 63 in the 2019 installment, has died of throat cancer in Madison, Wisconsin, where he was a university professor. He was 65.

His July 23 death was only recently announced on the University of Wisconsins website. Hitchon had revealed his cancer battle in the most recent film in the series, 63 Up.

More from Deadline

According to the university post, William Nicholas Nick Hitchon was a member of the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, having joined the faculty in 1982. He had earned his Ph.D. in engineering science the previous year from Oxford University.

But for generations of viewers and fans of the beloved Up series, Hitchon might forever be remembered as the little boy from a farming family in Littondale, England, who, when asked on camera in Seven Up! if he had a girlfriend, politely but firmly responded: I dont want to answer that. I dont answer those kind of questions.

The film series, which began as a one-off documentary about children from Britains various economic classes and endured with sequels every seven years under the guidance of researcher-turned-director Michael Apted , created a unique bond between the public at large and the subjects featured on screen, subjects who literally grew up before viewers eyes.

Representing Britains rural class, young Hitchon expressed his love for the natural world from the very beginning, growing into a thoughtful and sensitive young, then middle-aged, man. While his fellow child-subjects occasionally stumbled through life, Hitchon proved to be, as Apted himself once said, one of the success stories.

Sticking with the film series wasnt always easy, though, even for the esteemed professor. In a passage from 63 Up quoted in a 2019 Deadline article, Hitchon said: Its an incredibly hard thing to be in. I cant even begin to describe how emotionally draining and wrenching it is just to make the film and do the interviews.

Hitchon is survived by wife, Cryss, and son, Adam.

Below are highlights of Hitchons appearances in some of the films.

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Click here to read the full article.
The Real Housewives of Atlanta women are gripping onto their peaches as Bravo is reportedly facing a major cast shakeup for season 16.

Before the women filmed their recent reunion, they were told that they should expect a big change with the franchise moving forward," according to source reports. "They hinted at a reboot like [RHONY] got, but it also could be moving forward with only a couple of the current stars.

The reports claim ratings are still strong but the network is listening to fans and their desire for a change" as the womens reads and shade havent been grabbing the attention of viewers.

Fans ended another season with cast members  Kenya Moore, Kandi Burruss, Sheree Whitfield, Drew Sidora , Marlo Hampton and Sanya Richards Ross  during the season 15 finale on August 27.

Kandi, 47, the founding castmate of the crew, had a successful ending to her season as she and husband Todd Tucker's film The Pass got picked up by Peacock.

As for Drew, 38, her marriage to estranged husband Ralph Pittman crumbled throughout the season but hit a breaking point in the finale when he decided to stop sleeping in the same bedroom as her. Throughout the season, the streets claimed the actress-turned-reality star had an affair with a well-known WNBA player. Marlo also added fuel to the fire by claiming she recorded Drew kissing another woman but did not disclose who it was.

'RHOA' Season 16 Reportedly Undergoing a Major Cast Change

Although her marriage may have hit the end of the road, her career is looking up as she will star in Kandi and Todds upcoming movie.

Bravo dropped the trailer for the upcoming season reunion and the women are bringing the drama that was lacking all season. In the first clip, host Andy Cohen is seen reading a SHE Newspaper that Sheree, 53, undoubtedly made to slam her costars. While the SHE by Sheree founder and Kandi go head-to-head, Kenya, 52, accuses Marlo, 47, of calling her estranged husband Marc Daly.

However, the biggest OMG moment is when Ralph, 38, appears on set to talk about his crumbling marriage to Drew. She filed for divorce in March 2023, four months before the reunion was filmed.

Andy asked the business consultant if there as any hope for reconciliation with Drew, to which he replied, Of course. I love my wife

However, Drew didnt take the answer lightly and shared that Ralph allegedly told her he was getting blowjobs around the world.

Ralph later accused his estranged wife of acting when she got emotional over the cheating accusations, leading her to leave the set.

The Real Housewives of Atlanta season 15 reunion part 1 airs on Sunday, September 3, at 8 p.m. ET/PT.
The real estate firm behind a plan for a 266,000-square-foot film and TV studio located in Manhattan has unveiled a deal with operator Hudson Pacific and financial backer Blackstone to build on the Pier 94 location on the Hudson River.

The project, now titled Sunset Pier 94 Studios, has been in the works for years from New York-based firm Vornado Realty Trust, which holds the lease to the land. The plan calls for six soundstages and 145,000 square feet of production support space and offices. Appearing aimed at addressing community concerns, the project also touted 25,000 square feet of waterfront open space and pier access along with public restroom facilities at the Hudson River Park.

More from The Hollywood Reporter

A $350 million investment will be made toward building the project, which is expected to break ground in the third quarter of this year for planned completion in 2025, the companies said Tuesday.

On Aug. 1, during an earnings call, Vornados CEO Steven Roth said the deal wasnt quite done, but described the venture this way: It will be the only studio on the island of Manhattan. So were extremely enthusiastic about it. Where we have half the deal, we came in with the land and Hudson Pacific is the operator and Blackstone is Hudson Pacifics partner and now our partner.

That deal is now formalized, with Vornado taking a 49.9 percent stake in the venture, Hudson Pacific getting a 25.6 percent stake and Blackstone snapping up a 24.5 percent stake. The public-private joint venture also has backing from New York Mayor Eric Adams administration and the New York City Economic Development Corporation. This project will bring critical, long-awaited investment to this public asset, turn an underutilized space into an economic driver, and improve public space and quality of life for New Yorkers, Adams stated in the announcement.

Added Blackstone executive Nadeem Meghji, Content creation is one of our key global investment themes, and we are thrilled to be part of this one-of-a-kind, public-private partnership.

The move marks an expansion for Hudson Pacific, owner of Sunset Bronson Studios, a Hollywood stage that Netflix currently leases, among its 60-plus purpose-built stages. Manhattan has an extensive, well-established production infrastructure yet is highly supply constrained in terms of stages, stated Hudson Pacific CEO Victor Coleman, in unveiling the operators participation in the deal.

In recent years, amid a boom in content spending for film and TV shows on streaming platforms, Hollywood soundstages have become a popular bet for commercial real estate firms, especially as remote work has led to a rethink of office properties since the pandemic. For instance, Netflix, which leases the Icon, Epic and Cue buildings on the Sunset Bronson Studios lot in Los Angeles, pays $24.6 million in base rent annually, per a Hudson Pacific securities filing last September.

Over the summer, the dual actors and writers strikes have shut down activity on soundstage lots. A strike of this magnitude, while rare and historically short-term, can be extremely impactful and far-reaching, stated Coleman in an earnings release on Aug. 1. Were working diligently to mitigate its impact and to ensure our studio business is well positioned to capture the potential surge in production upon resolution.

Best of The Hollywood Reporter

Click here to read the full article.
PORTSMOUTH  When the Thunder Over New Hampshire Air Show last took over Seacoast air space two years ago, approximately 50,000 people saw and heard the aircraft in action, up close and personal, at the Pease Air National Guard Base.

The 2023 edition of the Thunder Over New Hampshire show will take place Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 9-10. The Air Force's F-16 Viper Demo Team is headlining the performances.

The air show will feature about a dozen flying performances by both military and civilian pilots and dozens of aircraft on display on the ground as well as educational hands-on activities for all ages.

Read on for answers to questions on the show, parking and much more:

Who will be performing at this years air show?

The Air Force's F-16 Viper Demo Team will provide the Thunder Over New Hampshire Air Show's headline performance at Pease Air National Guard Base in Portsmouth Sept. 9-10, 2023.

The Air Force F-16 Viper Demo Team will be joined by N.H. Air National Guard KC-46A tankers, the Vermont Air National Guard F-15 Eagle, the KC-135 Demo Team from Fairchild Air Force Base, the U.S. Special Operations Command Pura Commandos, aerobatic pilot Rob Holland, the N.H. Army Guard UH-60 Blackhawk, aerobatic pilot Kent Pietsch, the P-51C Mad Max with pilot Lou Horschel and the Smoke-N-Thunder Jet Truck.

The 2023 Thunder Over New Hampshire Air Show will once again feature a large display of military aircraft as well as some of the top civilian pilots in the world, said Herb Gillen, whose marketing agency is producing the show. On the civilian side, we are excited for Kent Pietsch to perform his legendary acts, including landing his aircraft on the back of a moving truck. We also have Hayden Proffitt II and the Smoke-n-Thunder Jet Truck, which has not appeared here and is always a fan favorite.

Gillen said the Seacoast crowds that attended past air shows have been enthusiastic, appreciative, supportive of our military, and a somewhat younger demographic than weve seen at other shows.

How does parking work at Pease air show? Can I still go to show if parking is sold out?

Admission to the show is free, but all the free parking spaces were quickly reserved back in March. However, at last check some premium parking at $75 and $45 remained available for reservation at thunderovernewhampshire.com/tickets-new.

After the free parking spaces were taken, air show organizers went to work trying to create more parking, and in July paid parking spaces became available for reservation online.

"We are very grateful to the (Pease Development Authority) for working with us to secure some additional space on the south ramp of the airport and across from the terminal parking lot, Gillen said. Although at this time there is still some parking remaining, there is less parking available than there was in 2021, and it will be sold out prior to the show.

The space available for parking is smaller this year because the Portsmouth International Airport at Peases terminal is undergoing an expansion project.

Our No. 1 priority is safety and our second consideration is the comfort of our guests. With the history of air shows at Pease, we were hypersensitive to making sure traffic and parking provided safe and easy entry and exit ..., Gillen said.

Air show viewing outside gates: Here are great Seacoast spots to see show without going to Pease

Air show organizers decided to find a way to meet the need for more access this year.

With less parking available on site this year, we wanted to explore offering other methods of attending as long as it could be done safely and not significantly increase entry and egress times, Gillen said. In consultation with our parking experts, the base and the PDA, we have evolved the traffic and parking plan this year to provide for rideshare drop-offs and bike parking near the terminal. We studied this very carefully, again with safety and guest experience, as our determining factors.

Can you take an Uber or ride a bike to the air show?

There will be a rideshare drop-off and bicycle parking location near the South Gate to the air show in front of the Pease Terminal Building. People can walk into the show.

"Due to safety concerns of mixing pedestrian traffic with heavy vehicle traffic, we are encouraging guests to park on site in one of the air show lots or be dropped off at the drop-off near the terminal," Gillen said.

What are the hours for air show?

The U.S. Special Operations Command Pura Commandos are set to appear in the Thunder Over New Hampshire Air Show at Pease Air National Guard Base in Portsmouth Sept. 9-10, 2023.

The parking lots at the air show will open at 8 a.m. both days. The gates, the aircraft on display on the runway and Patriot Plaza open at 9 a.m. The flying air show begins at approximately noon and goes until about 4 p.m. both days. The gates and parking lots close at 5 p.m. The specific times that each performer is flying will not be released so you have to pay attention or you might miss one.

What is Patriot Plaza?

Patriot Plaza will feature 52 acres of stationery aircraft displays, STEAM exhibits, hands-on educational activities for all ages, dining, concessions, souvenirs, commercial exhibits, the Kidz Zone Play Area, and a variety of premium seating options.

What are the special military events during air shows?

Air National Guard Technical Sgt. Victoria Nelson said there will be two ceremonies during the air show, one on Saturday and one on Sunday.

The Wing Jet Dedication on Saturday "will be a celebration of both the patriotism and unit pride that the men and women of the New Hampshire Air Guard embody every day with their one-of-a-kind aircraft paint scheme," Nelson said. The KC-46A aircraft christened Spirit of Portsmouth, with its American flag-inspired tail, will be on display.

On Sunday, the late Capt. Harl Pease Jr. historical ceremony, will be held. Pease is the namesake of Pease Air National Guard Base and a Medal of Honor recipient for his actions in Papua New Guinea during World War II. The guest speaker is John Levitow Jr., son of deceased Sgt. John Levitow, the first enlisted Airman to earn the Medal of Honor, Nelson said. The ceremony will feature the B-52 Stratofortress from the 93rd Bombardment Wing where Pease served in World War II during his mission from Rabaul.

We are excited to open our gates to the community, said Maj. Michelle Mastrobattista, the air show and open house director for the 157th Refueling Wing. We have some especially exciting entertainers, displays and STEM exhibits for all ages. Its a great opportunity to give back to our civilian partners and the local community for all their support over the years.

Who benefits from the money raised by the air show?

Air show proceeds will support the New Hampshire Military Assistance Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit established in 2014 to support New Hampshire's military members and their families.

If I have a parking pass, where do I go?

Parking for the show is in several lots adjacent to the runway at Pease. Visit thunderovernewhampshire.com/tickets-new for a parking map. Your parking pass tells you which lot you must park in. Parking lots at businesses located in the Pease International Tradeport will not be open to air show attendees.

How much traffic is expected? Will any roads close?

Traffic will be heavy around Pease International Tradeport and the roadways that lead to it, so local residents should allow extra time. McIntyre Road on the tradeport will be closed when the air show is occurring due to safety setbacks for low-flying aircraft. Other road closures may be announced by Portsmouth or Newington police as the air show gets closer.

All three entrances to Pease Tradeport  from Route 33 and from the Spaulding Turnpike at the main entrance and at Exit 3 off Interstate 95  will be open during the air show. Look for signage and law enforcement officers who will be giving direction to air show attendees.

Is the air show making an appearance at Hampton Beach?

Aerobatic pilot Rob Holland is set to perform in the Thunder Over New Hampshire Air Show at Pease Air National Guard Base in Portsmouth Sept. 9-10, 2023, as well as special performances over the Hampton Beach Seafood Festival on the same dates.

Yes. For the first time, the Hampton Beach Seafood Festival has arranged to have Rob Holland, one of the acrobatic pilots performing at the air show, do a mini-show over the location of the festival in Hampton Beach on both Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 9 and 10, at 1 p.m. Whether youre enjoying the seafood at the festival or on the beach, you could get a taste of the air show there.

What can I bring to the air show? Whats prohibited?

Comfortable shoes, sunscreen. ear protection, sunglasses, cameras (no bulky camera bags or lenses longer than a foot), blankets, lawn chairs, strollers and wagons for children are allowed inside the air show. Security reserves the right to turn away oversized carriages that cant be properly inspected. There will be fill stations for personal water containers at no charge. Cash and cards will be accepted for purchases.

Not allowed at the air show are umbrellas, weapons of any type, illegal drugs, alcoholic beverages, flammable liquids, explosive materials, fireworks, smoking materials, vaping devices (smoking and vaping is prohibited in the show area), pets other than service animals, laser pointers, bicycles, scooters, skates, skateboards, wheeled shoes, Segway-style human transporters, large backpacks, bags or coolers exceeding 14 inches in length, width or height, drone aircraft or any type of propelled item capable of being airborne, glass containers and cans, canopies, tents, camera lenses longer than 12 inches, political activity or protests.

Is the air show handicapped-accessible?

Yes, the air show is accessible to wheelchairs and walkers.

What is available for those attending with babies?

There will be space for changing and breastfeeding babies in the parent and baby tent located on the South Ramp.

Portsmouth announces parking ban

No parking will be permitted on Grafton Drive, including the truck turnaround area, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Friday, Sept. 8, Saturday, Sept. 9 and Sunday, Sept. 10. The ban was announced by Portsmouth Police Chief Mark Newport.

Newport advised show attendees to expect traffic delays and advised against bringing pets, noting they are not allowed in the show and shouldn't be left in vehicles.

Can I volunteer for the air show?

Yes, the air show needs volunteers. Go to thunderovernewhampshire.com/volunteer for information and to apply.

Can I send a question to air show organizers?

Email info@ThunderOverNewHampshire.com.

This article originally appeared on Portsmouth Herald: Thunder Over NH Air Show 2023 at Pease: What to know before you go
Pop star Taylor Swift threw some playful shade at rapper Kanye West over a decade after he notoriously interrupted her speech at the MTV VMA Awards.

Viewers at home famously remember Ye climbing on stage and snatching the mic to say, Beyonce had one of the best videos of all time, during Swifts acceptance speech. Although she spent years opening up about the humor and embarrassment she felt during the viral moment, it appears that she is still laughing about it now.

Kanye West (L) interrupts the acceptance speech from best female video winner Taylor Swift (R) at the 2009 MTV Video Music Awards in New York, September 13, 2009. REUTERS/Gary Hershorn (UNITED STATES ENTERTAINMENT)

During a recent stop on her The Eras Tour in Mexico, Swift took the audience down memory lane as she made reference to moments in her career when she felt supported the most by her loyal fanbase. As she begins to share what some of those moments were the crowd begins chanting, Taylor, Taylor, Taylor.

That is the loveliest and best way to be interrupted, just people chanting your name, she told the audience at Mexico Citys Foro Sol stadium before looking down at her piano.

She giggled before adding, Its really the only way to be interrupted, and I would know.

Taylor Swift pokes fun at Kanye West at Night 4 of the Mexico City Eras Tour.



Its really the only way to be interrupted, and I would know anyway, so um,



(swifthazed13 on TikTok) pic.twitter.com/fvayjib8NP  The Streamr (@The_Streamr) August 28, 2023

While many were also making jokes, a few fans on social media were confused by Swift, accusing her of looking for clout and implying that the country starlet will never let it go.

Why, shade now when that was 2009. Why try to make that relevant. It makes no sense.

shes the queen of holding grudges, she needs to build a bridge and get over it.

In 2009, a young Taylor Swift won the award for Best Female Music Video for You Belong With Me over Beyonces Single Ladies visual. During her acceptance speech, West hopped on stage and snatched the mic to declare the wife of his Watch the Throne collaborator, Jay-Z, should have originally won the award.

RELATED: Kanye West Explains Beef with JAY Z and How Taylor Swift Incident Triggered His Mental Breakdown

After calling Beys visual one of the best videos of all time, he seemingly handed the mic back to Swift, who stood shocked off to the side.

Oh, Kanye, Beyonce mouthed while seated in the audience as the crowd began to cheer.

Swift was previously accused of throwing shade by sharing other social media posts about the best Jam of all time. In 2013, she tweeted, Two VMA nominations!! If you vote and get us one, I promise to keep a firmer grip on the mic this time.

CLICK HER TO WATCH THE VIDEO.

The two songwriters reunited at the Grammy Awards in 2015 and stopped for a photo op.

After having to relive the moment over and over due to media and press coverage, the Donda School founder dropped his 2016 single Famous, in which Swift was outraged about his line, I feel like me and Taylor might still have sex. Why? I made that b- famous.

On her 2017 track, Look What You Made Me Do, Swift hit back, criticizing Wests titled stage experience during his The Saint Pablo Tour. She sings, I dont like your little games/ I dont like your tilted stage. The role you made me play/ of the fool/ No, I dont like you.

West has apologized on more than one occasion for what took place. The following year, the Grammy-winning artist and producer confessed that the viral moment was the beginning of him being blackballed on radio stations. He admitted that he didnt get much air time back then, which got to his head and triggered a mental breakdown.
The post How to Get Tickets to Lana Del Reys Sold-Out Austin Show appeared first on Consequence.

Lana Del Rey recently announced her highly-anticipated 2023 tour, and within days, tickets for each of the 10 shows sold out.

But if you were hoping to catch Del Reys performance in Austin, Texas on September 17th, have no fear  theres hope for you yet. Tickets might be sold-out on Ticketmaster, but that doesnt mean you cant get them. Read all the details on how to see Reys sold-out Austin show below, and grab your tickets here.

How Can I Get Tickets to Lana Del Reys Sold-Out Austin Show?

Tickets for Lana Del Reys 2023 Austin show are sold out via Ticketmaster. However, fans can still purchase tickets via StubHub, where orders are 100% guaranteed through StubHubs FanProtect program. StubHub is a secondary market ticketing platform, and prices may be higher or lower than face value, depending on demand.

What Is Lana Del Reys 2023 Tour?

Lana Del Reys 2023 tour will be in support of her latest album, Did You Know That Theres a Tunnel Under Ocean Blvd. If her sets from earlier this year are any indication, fans can expect to hear a number of songs off the new record, as well as renditions of tracks from throughout her career.

The Austin show at the Germania Insurance Amphitheater on September 17th will be the third gig of the run, coming after the two-night tour opener in Franklin, Tennessee on September 14th and 15th. Texan Rey fans will also get a second chance to see her live, as shell stop in Dallas on September 19th, two nights after Austin, to deliver a performance at the Dos Equis Pavilion.

Who Is Opening for Lana Del Rey at Her Austin Show?

There have been no announcements regarding an opener or supporting act to join Lana Del Rey on her 2023 tour.

What Are Lana Del Reys Other 2023 Tour Dates?

See the full list of Lana Del Reys upcoming tour dates below, and grab your tickets here.

Lana Del Rey 2023 Tour Dates:

09/14  Franklin, TN @ FirstBank Amphitheater

09/17  Austin, TX @ Germania Insurance Amphitheater

09/19  Dallas, TX @ Dos Equis Pavilion

09/21  Huntsville, AL @ Orion Amphitheater

09/23  West Palm Beach, FL @ iTHINK Financial Amphitheatre

09/25  Tampa, FL @ MIDFLORIDA Credit Union Amphitheatre

09/27  Brandon, MS @ Brandon Amphitheater

09/29  Charlotte, NC @ PNC Music Pavilion

10/01  Columbia, MD @ All Things Go Festival

10/03  Pittsburgh, PA @ The Pavilion at Star Lake

10/05  Charleston, WV @ Charleston Coliseum

How to Get Tickets to Lana Del Reys Sold-Out Austin Show

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A missing Georgia mother of three has been confirmed dead two years after she vanished on a morning walk.

Olivia Samantha Fowler, 27, was last seen on August 13, 2021, on Pebblebrook Road in Meriwether County, a quiet community an hour south of Atlanta. The police undertook an extensive search across multiple counties and states, implementing land and air operations and K9 dogs, Dateline reported last year. A break in the case finally came in December 2022 when a tip led police to the discovery of human remains in a local rural area. The Georgia Bureau of Investigations Crime Lab and the FBI Crime Lab worked together to expedite the identification of the body through DNA testing.

On August 21, 2023, our personnel along with FBI Agents from the Columbus Resident Agency met with and notified the immediate family members of Olivia Samantha Fowler that the remains recovered in December 2022 were in fact Olivia as they were verified through DNA testing, wrote Sheriff Chuck Smith in a press release on August 22.

RELATED: Woman Hires Hitman to Kill Business Partner Over Cannabis Dispensary "That Was Worth Nothing"

The case is not closed, however, as many unanswered questions remain. This case will now be classified from a missing person case to a death investigation. There is still much evidence to be analyzed and processed.

Although the outcome of the disappearance of Olivia Samantha Fowler is not what any of the family or law enforcement wanted this investigation remains active and on-going. Our focus now is to allow the family to grieve, Smith wrote in the press release. The update did not provide any information about how or why she died, and authorities have not named a suspect.

In an interview with Dateline last year, Olivias younger sister Roxanne opened up about her anguish over the disappearance, Its been hell, Roxanne said. Theres just literally no sign of her. She explained that Olivia had unstable housing and divided her time between her mothers house in Manchester and their fathers house in Woodbury, 15 minutes away.

After she went missing, family and friends jumped into action, distributing flyers in the community and displaying yard signs. Roxanne pointed out that Olivia had no history of mental illness, telling Dateline the disappearance was very, very odd.

Its a really small town, and everybody talks, she said. We only have one grocery store.

Roxanne recounted to Dateline that Olivia spent the night at her boyfriends place in Manchester on August 12, two days before she was reported missing. She told him she was going on the porch to smoke a cigarette, Roxanne said, and when he woke up the morning of August 13, she was gone. Roxanne told Dateline that local residents reportedly saw her walking on his street around 7:30 a.m. An officer from the Georgia Department of Natural Resources placed her on Pebblebrook Road outside the town of Manchester at 10:30 a.m., her last known whereabouts. Roxanne said she believed Olivia was on her way to "The Cove," which is a well-known spot along the Flint River.

In the press release, Smith wrote, The family would like the public to know that Olivia was not only a mother, but a daughter, a sister, a grandchild, and an important member of the Fowler family.

The Meriwether County Sheriffs Office is asking anyone with relevant information to contact them or call the FBI tip line at 770-216-3000.
According to NBC News, a 20-year-old Ugandan man has been arrested and prosecuted as the first person to commit aggravated homosexuality in the country. The offense has become punishable by death under Ugandas Anti-Homosexuality Act, which was passed in March.

The defendant was charged on Aug. 18 after he performed unlawful sexual intercourse with a 41-year-old man, Reuters reported. In Uganda, the death penalty can be applied to cases that are deemed aggravated, which is defined as repeated offenses, gay-sex that transmits terminal illness, or same-sex intercourse with a minor, an elderly person or a person with disabilities.

The outlet did not specify why the act was considered aggravated in the defendants situation.

Since it is a capital offence triable by the High Court, the charge was read out and explained to him in the Magistrates Court on (the) 18th and he was remanded, Jacqueline Okui, spokesperson for the office of the director of public prosecutions, told Reuters.

LGBTQ rights activists are taking part in a day of action across the United States to call on Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni to stop the bill, which passed on March 21, from going forward.



The defendants attorney, Justine Balya, stated that she believes the law is unconstitutional. She also mentioned that to her knowledge, four other people have been charged under the law since its enactment, but her client was the first to be prosecuted for aggravated homosexuality.

The laws enactment back in March drew widespread critique, protests and disapproval  including a statement from U.S. President Biden, who ordered a review of U.S. aid to Uganda.

The enactment of Ugandas Anti-Homosexuality Act is a tragic violation of universal human rights  one that is not worthy of the Ugandan people, and one that jeopardizes the prospects of critical economic growth for the entire country, he declared. I join with people around the world  including many in Uganda  in calling for its immediate repeal. No one should have to live in constant fear for their life or being subjected to violence and discrimination. It is wrong.

In addition, Biden called the anti-homosexuality bill a shameful act as he also advised the National Security Council to evaluate the implications of the law on all aspects of U.S. engagement with Uganda. This includes the ability to safely deliver services under the U.S. Presidents Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief and other different forms of help and investments.

We are considering additional steps, including the application of sanctions and restriction of entry into the United States against anyone involved in serious human rights abuses or corruption, Biden continued.

Uganda is among 32 nations in Africa that ban same-sex relationships, according to ILGA World data. Punishments range from imprisonment to the death penalty.

On March 21, Uganda's parliament passed a law that would criminalise identifying as LGBTQ.



Uganda is among 32 nations in Africa that ban same-sex relationships, according to @ILGAWORLD data. Punishments range from imprisonment to the death penalty.



? https://t.co/oS2YjPlbFh pic.twitter.com/GQrZWcdv9h  Reuters Graphics (@ReutersGraphics) April 6, 2023

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Paulina Rodriguez was on her way to California from the Dominican Republic when she said her dog was lost during a layover in Atlanta

A dog mom is actively searching for her beloved four-legged companion who she says has gone missing.

The search began after Paulina Rodriguez was flying from the Dominican Republic on Delta Airlines to California for a two-week vacation with her six-year-old dog Maia on Aug. 18, reported CNN Travel.

Rodriguez's travel plans included a layover at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, which is recognized by the Airports Council International as the "busiest airport in the world."

Related: South Carolina Zoo Will Permanently Close Following Settlement in PETA Lawsuit

Rodriguez told CNN that upon her arrival at the airport, she was denied entry into the U.S. due to issues with her tourist visa. She claims she was told she would have to return to the Dominican Republic on a flight the next day.

Worried about Maia, who had "puked with distress and had diarrhea," Rodriguez said she was told she would spend the night at a detention center and "not to worry" because Maia would be taken to a facility that was trained to care for animals. However, Rodriguez said that she arrived home with Maia nowhere in sight.

"For 2 straight days I have not received any information whatsoever on her whereabouts, and just today I received info from Delta that she escaped her kennel on the airport ramp and that airport staff was looking for her," she wrote in a Facebook post on Aug. 21.

Related: Dolly Parton Adds New Products with a 'Little Extra Sparkle' to Her Doggy Parton Pet Line

"Has any shelter near to the Atlanta airport received this dog? Also if anyone has any leads or suggestions on what should I do, I would really appreciate it. I am truly desperate and every minute counts," she added. "To clarify, I am not in Atlanta and I have no way right now to get there, but I have people who will go to the ATL airport in person very soon."

A Delta spokesperson told PEOPLE after the incident that the airline remains in communication with Rodriguez.

Never miss a story  sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from juicy celebrity news to compelling human-interest stories.



Delta people are heartbroken over what this customer and her family are going through. Delta remains in contact with her as we continue to keep all eyes and ears open for her dog," a Delta spokesperson said in a statement.



Delta said its staff has conducted searches of the airfield, including around-the-clock visual searches since Aug. 18 as conditions allowed, aided by night-vision goggles. They have also reached out to animal shelters and veterinarians near the airport. The airline also offered to host Rodriguez's mother to assist in the search, the airline said.

According to Delta, the incident remains under internal investigation.



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roundworm-womans-brain-australia - Credit: SCIEPRO/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY

In January 2021, a 64-year-old woman from New South Wales, Australia went to a local hospital for abdominal pain, diarrhea, dry cough, fever, and night sweats.

Her symptoms worsened, and by 2022 included forgetfulness and depression. After a scan of her brain revealed abnormal lesions, she underwent surgery. According to the Guardian, this is when the staff at Canberra hospital made a shocking discovery.

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While operating on the woman, neurosurgeon Dr. Hari Priya Bandi pulled out an 8cm-long parasitic roundworm, called colleague physician Dr Sanjaya Senanayake, and exclaimed: Oh my god, you wouldnt believe what I just found in this ladys brain  and its alive and wriggling.

The team at the hospital sent the still-very-much-alive worm to the laboratory of a Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) scientist. The parasitic worm was identified as a third-stage larva of Ophidascaris robertsi, according to the case study published in the September issue of journal Emerging Infectious Diseases by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

This type of worm is usually found in carpet pythons, which happened to live near the lake area of the patients home. The doctors hypothesized that the woman had inadvertently eaten O. robertsi eggs either directly from the vegetation or indirectly by contamination of her hands or kitchen equipment.

After the worm was removed from her brain, the woman was given medication to address potential larvae that could still be living in other organs. The patients case marks the first time the parasite was found in humans, per the Guardian.

The patient is in recovery and being monitored, according to Senanayake. Researchers are looking into whether a preexisting medical condition caused the woman to be immunocompromised and could have enabled the parasite to migrate into her central nervous system.

That poor patient, she was so courageous and wonderful, Senanayake told the outlet. You dont want to be the first patient in the world with a roundworm found in pythons and we really take our hats off to her. Shes been wonderful.

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Editor's note: This page recaps news related to Hurricane Idalia from Tuesday, Aug. 29. For the latest news on Hurricane Idalia landfall, please read our live updates page for Wednesday, Aug. 30.

CEDAR KEY, Fla.  Hurricane Idalia, a Category 4 storm with sustained winds at 130 mph, was on a collision course with Florida's Big Bend and only 90 miles from the state's capital, Tallahassee early Wednesday morning.

The National Weather Service warned of a "life-threatening, dangerous situation," saying the storm could make landfall as a major hurricane. The treacherous tropical cyclone is driving a potentially deadly storm surge toward the Big Bend area of Florida's west coast.

"To put this system into the historical context, there are no major hurricanes in the historical dataset going back to 1851 that have tracked into Apalachee Bay. None," the advisory said. "Don't mess around with this."

A hurricane warning was in place along hundreds of miles of Florida coastline as the storm headed toward an apparent landfall along Florida's Big Bend.

Nearly all of Florida's western coastline is under a tornado watch, according to the National Weather Service. The watch is in effect for over seven million people in 22 counties until 6 a.m. Wednesday.

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis said at a news briefing that highway tolls were being waived, shelters were opening and hotels were prepared to take evacuees. More than 30,000 utility workers were getting ready to repair outages when the storm passes.

DeSantis said landfall appeared to be headed toward Taylor County, southeast of Tallahassee and one of the most rural and economically challenged areas of the state. But he said it was too early to know exactly where the storm would hit.

"Everybody on the Gulf Coast from Tampa Bay to northwest Florida must be vigilant," he said. "You're going to see some nasty weather."

At a self-serve sandbag site in Spring Hill, well within Hernando County's mandatory evacuation zone, Jeff Manor and Judy Hodder were preparing bags to place along the doors and garage of their coastal home. They already brought in their outdoor furniture, towed their pontoon boat out of a nearby canal and tied it down on the side of their home.

"We're staying here," Hodder, 67, said as she wiped sweat from her forehead. "But if it starts coming at us, we're gone."

Tallahassee residents fill sandbags as they prepare for the worst with Hurricane Idalia heading toward Florida on Aug. 29, 2023.

What is rapid intensification? How Idalia could quickly become a major hurricane before landfall

Developments:

 DeSantis said 5,000 National Guard members were activated, 580 search and rescue workers in eight teams were mobilized, 1,100 generators were prepped for deployment, and 200 ambulances were ready to sweep into the area.

 Idalia was expected to remain a hurricane as it crosses into Georgia before moving over the Carolina coastline on Thursday, then out into the Atlantic, where its path remained uncertain.

An ominous sky greets people as Hurricane Idalia approaches Florida at Times Square on Fort Myers Beach on Aug. 29, 2023. The area was devastated by Hurricane Ian last year.

Florida is on storm surge watch: Here's what that means

Follow the path of Idalia as storm heads for Florida

This forecast track shows the most likely path of the center of the storm but does not illustrate the full width of the storm or its impacts, and the center of the storm is likely to travel outside the cone up to 33% of the time.

Parts of Tampa Bay Area under flood warning as heavy rain batters region

TAMPA The National Weather Service is warning that the Alafia River will likely breach its banks in the Hillsborough County community of Riverview on Wednesday, as Idalia batters Florida's west coast.

A flood warning is in effect from Wednesday morning through the late evening near the bridge where U.S. 301 crosses the river. The Alafia is forecast to exceed its flood stage by 1.5 feet, according to the weather service.

"Major flooding is forecast," the agency said in a weather advisory. "This approaches the flood of record."

The previous record water level for the Alafia in Riverview was 6.2 feet following Hurricane Frances in 2004, according to weather service data. Wednesday's forecast calls for a peak of 5.7 feet in the early afternoon.

Riverview is an unincorporated community in Hillsborough County of about 100,000 people that lies ten miles southeast of downtown Tampa.

Idalia's impacts were felt across the region as waves along the coast rose and crashed ashore. The city of Tampa was experiencing heavy rain as numerous showers and thunderstorms moved over the area. Wind gusts up to 65 mph are expected overnight.

 Dan Glaun, Florida Today

Idalia expected to 'become a major hurricane'

DeSantis announced that 30 of Floridas 67 counties had some kind of evacuation order in place. Schools have also closed in many counties as residents prepare for high winds and potential flash flooding.

"Now's the time to do it," DeSantis said during a Tuesday night news conference. "If you wait much longer . . . the weather's going to start getting nastier and nastier."

The governor warned that first responders will not be able to provide aid or respond to emergency calls until after the storm has passed. He noted the state has also set aside resources to help restore power and interruption to fuel supplies, including 30,000 to 40,000 electricity workers on standby and 1.1 million gallons of fuel.

'We're solid here': Business owners prepare for impact

CEDAR KEY, Fla.  In the mid-afternoon, Cedar Key's quaint downtown and Dock Street area, its streets lined with restaurants and local shops on stilts firm in the Gulf of Mexico, were deserted. Metal and wood boards were nailed over windows and doors of beloved eateries, clashing with the pastel signage of restaurants bearing the names Tipsy Cow, Steamers and Duncan's on the Gulf.

It's one of a cluster of islands in the Gulf Coast known for its wildlife with about 800 residents and only one road going in or out.

Jordan Keeton, 39, owns 83 West, the largest restaurant on the island. It juts out over the Gulf of Mexico and both floors are surrounded by windows. He and his family and friends were moving out the last of the most valuable items, including a wooden bench shaped like a boat, which has been with the restaurant for over 50 years, he said.

Keeton, who is also the chef, has owned the restaurant since 2015. Soon after purchasing it, he renovated the place. The next year, however, Hurricane Hermine's storm surge caused about $750,000 in damages. He and his brother James were upstairs when the storm hit. The downstairs was destroyed, and he found pieces of the deck at a fire station miles away.

Afterward, he made sure the new floors and walls could withstand flooding.

On Monday and Tuesday morning, they cleared the downstairs and lugged most of the furniture, kitchen supplies and alcohol upstairs.

"The plan is for the stuff to stay dry up here as the surge pushes through the downstairs and onto the island," he said.

Keeton is going to stay through the storm at his nearby home, 16 feet above sea level.

"We should be fine at a Cat 3. Our house is rated at a 5. I'm not worried about it there," he said, placing his hand on the second-floor dock of his restaurant, overlooking the overcast sky over the Gulf. "This one, not so much. So we'll see what happens."

On a country road, a few miles short of downtown, Lee Bryan and some of his friends were strapping down a large walk-in cooler he uses for his clam farming business, Bryan Farms.

"He's worried the water will bring it off its pilings," said Lee's wife Leanna Bryan, a co-owner of the business.

The couple's operation delivers clams to restaurants on three separate routes up and down the Nature Coast and Big Bend. They live off the Suwannee river and plan to stay there through the hurricane.

"When you live here, you know they're going to come so you have to work with mother nature as much as you can," she said. "Can't control it so you got to just try and help yourself."

Leanna Bryan said no matter the damage, Cedar Key and its residents will persevere.

"It's a resilient community, we all come together and help each other," she said. "We're solid here."

Hurricane Center chief: Be ready to survive several days on your own

National Hurricane Center Director Michael Brennan warned there are "likely going to be some devastated areas" in counties from the Florida coast into southern Georgia. The storm surge will be difficult to survive along a long stretch of the coast, including Citrus, Levy, Taylor and Franklin counties, Brennan said. Residents should have several days' worth of food, medicine and emergency supplies on hand, he said.

There may not be water, power and other amenities youre used to having, Brennan said. Youre going to want to be prepared to survive several days on your own, without any support from anybody else.

'Gloom and doom ... (or) everything is going to be fine'

Dozens of Hernando Beach and Weeki Wachee locals looking to fortify their homes on Tuesday took shovels to large sand mounds, packed bags full and lugged them to their cars and trucks within eyeshot of the Gulf of Mexico where several feet of storm surge is expected.

At a self-service sandbag site at Linda Pedersen Park in Spring Hill, Alan Covington, 63, and Vreli Covington, 63, stuffed the truck bed of their Ford F-150 with sandbags. For the past seven years, they have lived in a single-story home within 100 yards of the Gulf.

"They're for us but mostly for our neighbor, who has been in New Hampshire the last few days," Alan Covington said, pointing to the bags. "I told him: 'We're gonna put sandbags up for you'  not that it's gonna do any good."

The couple took in all the furniture, packed their important papers and stored their boat at a nearby marina. Once they set up the sandbags, they planned to take refuge at a friend's two-story inland home.

"We're going to push away with positivity," Vreli Cunningham said. "We're the two ends of the spectrum. Mister Doom and Gloom and me, Miss 'Everything Is Going to be Fine.'"

Idalia in context: Previous storms have devastated Apalachee Bay

Other storms have set a precedent for devastating storm surge in communities along Apalachee Bay. In 2005, Hurricane Dennis, passing 120 miles to the west, produced a surprising storm surge of 6-9 feet higher than normal tide levels, inundating the community of St. Marks just south of Tallahassee.

Dennis obliterated Posey's Oyster Grill and Bar, a highly popular restaurant known for its local seafood.

In an after-storm report by the hurricane center, hurricane specialist Jack Beven wrote the surge was likely triggered by an oceanic trapped shelf wave that propagated northward along the Florida west coast.

Dennis approached at the right angle to trap a bulge of water between itself and the shore, Mark Wool, a meteorologist with the weather service, once told the Tallahassee Democrat.

Idalia could thrive on warm waters of Gulf

Hurricane Idalia's path toward Florida's coast takes it through a steamy hot tub otherwise known as the Gulf of Mexico. That's worrisome because hurricanes thrive on warm water. It fuels the heat and water vapor that make them stronger and capable of dumping more extreme rainfall. And unseasonably warm water temperatures have lingered in the Gulf for weeks, making it even hotter than normal.

In a worst-case scenario Tuesday, the tropical cyclone will be moving along the coast in water temperatures among the hottest on record in the Gulf as it spins toward a landfall overnight or Wednesday morning.

Evacuation urged ahead of potential wall of water

Catastrophic impacts from a storm surge of up to 15 feet above ground level topped by large, destructive waves are possible along a stretch of more than 100 miles of coastline from the Aucilla River to Yankeetown in the Big Bend region, the hurricane center said. A storm surge of 3 feet or more is possible, depending on the timing of high tides, to the north and the south from west of Apalachicola to Everglades City. Residents were urged to heed evacuation orders.

For context, the maximum water level measured after Hurricane Ian in Fort Myers Beach last fall was 15 feet. The hurricane center concluded in its post-Ian report that storm surge killed 41 people, more than any other single cause. The U.S. Geological Survey, university researchers and professional storm chasers were out placing specialty equipment along the coast Tuesday to measure the expected surge.The geological survey said Idalias surge could cause changes all along the states west coast, washing over sandy beaches and cutting into dunes.

Old nuclear power plant braces for Idalia

About 85 miles north of Tampa along the Gulf of Mexico, the retired Crystal River Nuclear Plant sits near Idalias forecasted path. Part of Duke Energys 5,100-acre complex that also includes active fossil fuel-powered plants in Citrus County, the old nuclear plant began decontamination and dismantling in 2020. In an email, federal Nuclear Regulatory Commission spokesperson Neil Sheehan said there is no operating reactor that would cause concern. Officials remain in contact with plant personnel who must complete storm preparation, including ensuring radioactive materials are secured, he said.

Hurricane preparations for the site were completed Monday, Duke Energy spokesperson Mary Kathryn Green said in an email. Radioactive materials are permanently placed in shielded containers that withstand the effects of extreme weather, she said. Used nuclear fuel also remains sealed in on-site storage.

Keith Richardson, a spokesperson for Duke Energy, said the company was securing anything that could become airborne, storing equipment and ensuring generators are supplied should power be lost. Afterward, staff plan to do walkthroughs and inspections, he said.

In terms of the process, thats all accounted for, Richardson said.

 Eduardo Cuevas

Big Bend is mostly rural, thinly populated

The Big Bend, the region where the Florida Panhandle transitions into the peninsula, is tree-packed and rural. Taylor County, the southernmost county in the Big Bend, is home to only about 22,000 people, ranking it 54th in population out of the state's 67 counties. To the western side, Franklin county ranks 64th, with a population of about 12,500. In 2021, about 19% of the residents in Franklin County lived below the poverty line, one of the poorest counties in the state.

Most of the population lives along the Apalachee Bay, a swampy swath of Florida where parts o the coastline remain undeveloped. Inland, three state forests connect the panhandle to the peninsula, and the tall pines that line the Big Bend Scenic Byway are very sensitive to wind damage and pose a threat to homes in high-speed winds.

 Ana Goni-Lessan, Tallahassee Democrat

An emotional Christine Willis, a Fort Myers Beach resident, prepares to leave the beach in anticipation of the approach of Idalia on Aug. 28, 2023.

Small wobble could drastically alter storm's impact

Floridians were anxiously waiting to see whether Idalia follows the forecast track or makes any kind of last-minute wobble to the east that could bring worse-than-expected damage from wind and water. Hurricane Ian last year and Hurricane Charley in 2004 curved toward a landfall a little earlier than expected. Any movement closer to land could increase the effects of storm surge, rain and higher winds closer to the center of the hurricane.

One neighborhood near Tampa Bay on Tuesday morning illustrated the gamut of emotions among residents on the west coast, but outside the forecast cone. One was putting up shutters while another was laying sod. Kevin Guthrie, executive director of the Florida Division of Emergency Management, stressed that everyone should prepare for the worst.

The storm is going to be here soon, Guthrie said. I implore you to finalize your disaster preparedness actions right now.

Storm surge as high as 15 feet

Idalia is forecast to make landfall overnight Tuesday or early Wednesday as a major hurricane with sustained winds near 120 mph. Storm surge  a sudden rise in water levels along beaches and into inland waterways  as high as 15 feet could slam the coast south of Floridas Big Bend near the eventual point of landfall. Storm surge of at least 2 to 3 feet was possible along the state's entire west coast, depending on how Idalia's landfall coincides with full moon high tides. A storm surge of 4 to 7 feet could occur in Tampa Bay, the hurricane center warned.

Ryan Truchelut, chief meteorologist at Florida-based WeatherTiger, said Idalia will likely bring "catastrophic surge" to much of the west-central Florida and Big Bend coastline and a core of destructive winds to parts of North Florida. Idalia could become just the second Category 3 or higher hurricane  winds exceeding 110 mph  to make landfall there in the past 170 years, he said.

What is storm surge?: Explaining a hurricane's deadliest and most destructive threat

Evacuation orders: Hurricane Idalia rapidly intensifying; 22 Florida counties under evacuation orders

A foot of rain, tornadoes possible

Rainfall of 4 to 8 inches is forecast along portions of the state's west coast and Panhandle, as well as along the path of the storm through Southeast Georgia and the eastern Carolinas, with isolated amounts up to 12 inches near where Idalia makes landfall, the National Weather Service said.

Tropical storm warnings were posted along all of Georgia's coast and much of the Florida and South Carolina coasts. Cities such as Charlotte and Raleigh, North Carolina, are likely to see a few inches of rain as Idalia moves along the Carolina coasts before curving northeastward over the Atlantic Ocean, AccuWeather said.

"Tornadoes can also occur to the east of the center of the circulation as it moves across Florida," AccuWeather Senior Meteorologist Dan Pydynowski said.

Weather Channel meteorologist Jim Cantore seen on Cedar Key

Sunday posts on X, formerly Twitter, that indicated The Weather Channel meteorologist Jim Cantore would show up in Florida were confirmed Monday. Cantore is long known for being in the middle of major storm events. An X user whose handle is Lt. Col. William Reid tweeted a photo from a Cedar Key restaurant, presumably Steamers: "Ran into the Jim Cantore while having dinner."

Photos of the restaurant's page on Facebook show a "dollar bill wall," similar to the dollar bill wall in Reid's tweet. Cantore has quite a history in Florida storms. You can read more here.

 Jennifer Sangalang, USA TODAY Network-Florida

Contributing: Jennifer Borresen

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Hurricane Idalia path live updates: Storm powers to a Category 4
Two days after being spotlighted during the first Republican presidential debate, Vivek Ramaswamy saw a surge of Iowans flock to his campaign stops in central Iowa ahead of the Jan. 15 caucuses.

Ramaswamy, an Ohio biotech entrepreneur and an unabashed supporter of former President Donald Trump, found himself the focal point of 16 attacks during last week's presidential debate in Milwaukee, more than any other candidate, according to NBC News.

The attention has heightened interest in Ramaswamy, who described himself as "a skinny guy with a funny last name" at the debate and who has been relegated to the middle of the pack of presidential contenders in a recent Iowa Poll. Just 4% of likely Republican caucusgoers named him their first choice, putting him in seventh place in the first-in-the-nation caucus state.

GOP Presidential Candidate Vivek Ramaswamy meets with prospective Iowa caucusgoers in Pella, Iowa on Friday, Aug. 25, 2023.

Yet by Friday morning, throngs of Iowans packed Ramaswamy's appearances.

Iowa State Senate President Jake Chapman, Ramaswamys Iowa co-chair, said they planned for 75 to 100 people to attend an event at Fireside Bistro in Indianola, Iowa, last Friday morning. Instead, 300 people showed up, he estimated.

The turnout was so large that the campaign ordered more food for attendees. This was a clear sign that Ramaswamy got a bump in interest after the debate, Chapman said.

What I think everyone saw was you had seven against one, and he came out the winner, Chapman said. The reason why I think hes catching on fire is because hes not talking about fighting against Joe Biden or policy differences. Hes leading with a vision of what is America.

Sara Woodcock went to Ramaswamys Pella, Iowa, event later that morning during her husbands lunch break. They watched the debate and learned about him for the first time, David Woodcock said.

David Woodcock had supported Trump but said he is over him now. Sara Woodcock still calls Trump her first choice. But they were both curious to learn more about Ramaswamy after his debate performance drew high marks from media pundits and many Republicans.

He really stood out at the debate, David Woodcock said. I thought he and Nikki Haley stood out probably the most. (Florida Gov. Ron) DeSantis was OK.

I never knew who this guy was until the debate, Sara Woodcock said.

After seeing Ramaswamy speak Wednesday, David Woodcock said he would consider voting for Ramaswamy.I like what he stands for, he said.

Sara Woodcock said Ramaswamys youth is an asset. The 38-year-old touts himself as the first millennial to run for U.S. president as a Republican. Ramaswamy his youthfulness is a reason for voters to vote for him.

The fact that he might be able to reach some millennials that nobody else can, Sara Woodcock said. Theres still a lot of other people in the race that I like, but I was very impressed by what he had to say.

This is great to have fresh blood in there, David Woodcock said.

GOP Presidential Candidate Vivek Ramaswamy meets with people after speaking in Indianola on Friday Aug. 25, 2023.

Ramaswamy holds several positions similar to Trump. Last week, Ramaswamy said the next election has to be a landslide election to prevent questions from being raised about the winner.

Im the only candidate who has a (Ronald) Reagan 1980-style victory with a multi-ethnic, working-class coalition, particularly with people who are not just older, but people who are younger who we are bringing into our party, Ramaswamy said.

Laurence Ladwig is a retired Vermeer Corp. employee who lives in Pella. Like the Woodcocks, Ladwig thinks that Ramaswamys youth is a plus, but he said his inexperience is a negative. Ramaswamy has never held elected office.

Ladwig was curious about Ramaswamy after seeing clips of him speaking on the Des Moines Register Political Soapbox at the Iowa State Fair. Ladwig is still trying to figure out who to vote for, though he likes Trump. But Ladwig likes how Ramaswamy can reach people, even if his inexperience is an issue, he said.

Foreign policy, he doesnt know what it is to run a government, city government, state government, nothing, Ladwig said. He couldnt meet foreign leaders, I think, on the level.

GOP Presidential Candidate Vivek Ramaswamy speaks in an Indianola restaurant on Friday Aug. 25, 2023.

Pritesh Patel, 34, of Indianola, described himself as socially liberal and fiscally conservative. Patel chose Ramaswamy as his preferred candidate before Wednesdays debate. A hotel owner in Indianola, Patel said Ramaswamy seems authentic and focused on things he can control.

He understands the problems from our generation, Patel said. Hes inspiring.

Patel also thought Ramaswamy helped himself with his debate performance.

He laid out a vision for the U.S. in the future, and its an enticing vision, Patel said.

Philip Joens covers retail, real estate and RAGBRAI for the Des Moines Register. He can be reached at 515-284-8184, pjoens@registermedia.com or on Twitter @Philip_Joens.

This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: Vivek Ramaswamy speaks to overflow Iowa crowds after Republican debate
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We love dogs, but cats are great companions, too. Sure, theyre independent creatures, but they also form incredible bonds with humans (studies have shown that they boost our mood). So, it comes as no surprise that our feline friends have inspired so many movies about cats, whether its an eye-opening documentary like Kedi or a feel-good Disney film like The Aristocats.

Whether youre searching for good options to watch with the family or planning a special movie night with your kitty, keep reading for 25 movies about cats that you can stream on Amazon Prime, Disney+ and more.

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16 Rarest Cat Breeds That We Need More of Stat

Who's In It: Jordan Peele, Keegan-Michael Key, Keanu Reeves

Run Time: 1 hour 40 minutes

Partners in crime Jordan Peele and Keegan-Michael Key co-star in this bizarre, yet hilarious buddy comedy. They play cousins Rell and Clarence, who embark on a mission to find Rells stolen cat (Keanu Reeves). After learning that the thief is a dangerous criminal, they must work for him in order to get the beloved cat back. Naturally, chaos ensues.

Watch On Amazon Prime

Who's In It: Francois Morel, Maurice Benichou, Hafsia Herzi

Run Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

With vibrant hues, stunning animation and a talking cat, one would assume that its just another Disney-esque tale for kidsbut theres more to it than meets the eye. Set in 1920s Algeria, the film follows Rabbi Sfar (Maurice Benichou), who learns that his feline friend has a newfound ability to speak after eating a talking parrot. When the sharp-tongued cat uses its voice to question religion, faith and lifes purpose, the rabbi starts to reconsider his views.

Watch on Apple TV

Who's In It: Luke Treadaway, Ruta Gedmintas, Joanne Froggatt

Run Time: 1 hour 42 minutes

Based on a true story, this thoughtful film revolves around James Bowen (Luke Treadaway), a homeless musician and recovering drug addict whose life begins to change after he bonds with a stray cat in the streets of London. Its an inspiring tale of redemption and hope, but its not overwhelmingly cheesy or sappy. Plus, the ginger feline might inspire you to get a cat of your own.

Watch on Amazon Prime

Who's In It: N/A

Run Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

This insightful documentary focuses on seven catsranging from fiercely independent creatures who fend for themselves to tamer kittens who are looked after by the communitywho roam freely in Istanbul, Turkey. The film also features in-depth interviews with those who interacted with them, offering quite a bit of insight on how they live.

Watch On Amazon Prime

Who's In It: Ken Berry, Sandy Duncan, Harry Morgan

Run Time: 1 hour 43 minutes

Think E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial, but with an alien cat instead. In the film, a cat gets stranded on Earth after his spaceship gets damaged, and he enlists the help of scientists to help him return home. But thanks to the government and foreign spies, this is no easy task.

Watch On Disney+

Who's In It: Antonio Banderas, Salma Hayek, Zach Galifianakis

Run Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Ever wondered what Puss in Boots (Antonio Banderas) was up to before he appeared in Shrek 2? Well, nows your chance to get the 411 on his background. Unlike the official fairytale, Puss in Boots follows the smooth-talking cat as a fugitive whos on the run. To restore his honor, he teams up with Humpty Dumpty (Zach Galifianakis) and Kitty Softpaws (Salma Hayek) to retrieve a valuable Golden Goose.

Watch On Amazon Prime

Who's In It: Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker, Kathy Najimy

Run Time: 1 hour 36 minutes

No, this Disney classic isnt necessarily about cats, but we can still agree that the main characters would never have survived without the guidance of the legendary Thackery Binx (Jason Marsden). After three centuries of roaming the streets as a black cat, the cursed teen is tasked with helping three kids save the town when Max Dennison (Omri Katz) accidentally frees a trio of witches.

Watch On Disney+

Who's In It: Chloe Moretz, Michael Pena, Colin Jost

Run Time: 1 hour 41 minutes

Our childhood favorites are at it againonly this time, theyre battling it out in the real world. In this impressive hybrid of animation and live-action, an event planner hires Tom to get rid of Jerry after he moves into an upscale hotel. Of course, the eager cats efforts to solve the problem only lead to more chaos. Expect appearances by Chloe Grace Moretz, Michael Pena, Colin Jost and Rob Delaney.

Watch On Max

Who's In It: Chantal Strand, Ian James Corlett, Katheleen Barr

Run Time: 49 minutes

There are quite a few Tom and Jerry flicks to choose from, but this holiday-themed installment is guaranteed to make any kid smile. Jerry is living his best life in a magical wonderland thats filled with holiday cheer, but when Tom and his crew show up and take over, Jerry must win the kingdom backbut not without the help of the Toymaker.

Watch On Amazon Prime

Who's In It: Ryan Reynolds, Anna Kendrick, Gemma Arterton

Run Time: 1 hour 43 minutes

At first glance, you might mistake this for a silly comedy, given that it has Ryan Reynolds and not one, but two talking pets. But in reality, its a comedy horror that dabbles in some dark themes. Reynolds plays a quirky guy named Jerry, whose efforts to pursue a love interest take a dangerously fatal turn after he accepts guidance from his talking cat and dog. Prepare to be mind-blown at the end

Watch On Amazon Prime

Who's In It: Michael J. Fox, Don Ameche, Sally Field

Run Time: 1 hour 24 minutes

Need a heartfelt movie that tackles family themes? Youve come to the right place. Michael J. Fox, Don Ameche and Sally Field are the voices behind the Seavers familys beloved cat and two dogs, who fear that theyve been left behind after the family goes on vacation. Determined to reunite with their owners, the trio embark on a challenging journey.

Watch On Disney+

Who's In It: Hayley Mills, Dean Jones, Dorothy Provine

Run Time: 1 hour 56 minutes

When a bank teller gets kidnapped, she sends for help by using her neighbors cat. Fortunately for her, the neighbor gets her message, and after a quick call to the F.B.I, a cat-allergic agent is assigned to find the missing woman by tailing the kitten. What could possibly go wrong?

Watch On Disney+

Who's In It: Koizumi Kyoko, Shigeru Tsuyuguchi

Run Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Narrated by Dudley Moore, the film follows Milo (the cat) and Otis (the dog), who are the best of friends. But when an incident accidentally separates them, they embark on a wild journey to find their way back to each other. *Grabs a tissue*

Watch On Apple TV

Who's In It: Art Carney, Paul Mazursky, Ellen Burstyn

Run Time: 1 hour 55 minutes

The Oscar-winning film revolves around a retired New York professor, whose home is destroyed in order to build a new structure. In response, he takes his beloved cat and embarks on his first adventure, traveling across the country and making new connections along the way.

Watch On Xfinity

Who's In It: Phil Harris, Eva Gabor, Sterling Holloway

Run Time: 1 hour 23 minutes

Who can say no to a nostalgic gem that has stunning animation, jazzy music and cultured, aristocratic cats? This feel-good film follows a group of well-off kittens, who get kidnapped by an evil butler. Can they make it back home?

Watch On Disney+

Who's In It: Joey Lawrence, Billy Joel, Cheech Marin

Run Time: 1 hour 17 minutes

Inspired by Charles Dickens's Oliver Twist, the Disney classic follows a homeless cat named Oliver, who joins a gang of stray dogs and helps them steal to survive. When he meets a wealthy girl named Jenny (Natalie Gregory), everything changes. The kid-friendly flick made history as the first animated film to gross $100 million worldwide during its initial release.

Watch On Disney+

Who's In It: Breckin Meyer, Jennifer Love Hewitt, Stephen Toblowsky

Run Time: 1 hour 20 minutes

Follow the misadventures of this famous orange (and spaghetti-loving) feline as he sets out to rescue his owners runaway dog, with the help of his pals. The comedy stars Breckin Meyer, Jennifer Love Hewitt, Bill Murray and Stephen Tobolowsky.

Watch On Amazon Prime

Who's In It: Mirai Shida, Natsuki Hanae, Hiroaki Ogi

Run Time: 1 hour 45 minutes

When a middle schooler is gifted with a magical mask that can turn her into a cat, she uses it to get the attention of her classmate and longtime crush. But the more she uses the mask, she more she risks becoming a kitten for good. Ah, the things we do for love

Watch On Netflix

Who's In It: Park Min-young, Kim Dong-wook, Kim Min-jae

Run Time: 1 hour 46 minutes

FYI, this South Korean horror isn't for the faint of heart, but it'll be a special treat for those who love a good scare. In the film, So-yeon (Park Min-young), a pet store worker, starts having strange nightmares and sees ghosts after she inherits a mysterious Persian cat.

Watch On Amazon Prime

Who's In It: Dominique Blanc, Bruno Salomone, Jean Benguigui

Run Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

In this fascinating crime drama, a young Parisian girl named Zoe (Oriane Zani) discovers that her cat has been leading a double life. By day, he acts as her pet, and by night, he works for a burglar. When Zoe follows him one night, she gets involved with gangsters, and it's up to her cat to save the day.

Watch On Apple TV

Who's In It: Tobey Maguire, Jeff Goldblum, Alec Baldwin

Run Time: 1 hour 27 minutes

Cats and dogs may get along well in real life, but in this film, theyre highly intelligent animals involved in a full-blown war as they compete to win over humans. When a science expert works on creating a cure for dog allergies, the cats deduce that dogs will become the superior pet, prompting them to retaliate with clever schemes of their own. But the dogs arent going down without a fight.

Watch On Amazon Prime

Who's In It: Michael J. Fox, Jonathan Lipnicki, Geena Davis

Run Time: 1 hour 24 minutes

When Stuart (Michael J. Fox), a lovable white mouse, gets adopted by the Little family, their Persian cat, Snowbell (Nathan Lane), isnt thrilled. In fact, he gets so jealous that he plots to get rid of his new master, enlisting the help of a few alley cat mobsters. Grab this one for your next family movie night if youre looking for a guaranteed hit.

Watch On Netflix

Who's In It: Grumpy Cat, Aubrey Plaza

Run Time: 1 hour 26 minutes

Remember the internet's favorite celebrity cat? Well, Grumpy Cat (aka Tardar Sauce) actually had her own film back in 2014. This Lifetime holiday movie stars the feline as she's overlooked time and time again at the mall pet shop. Soon, she befriends a 12-year-old girl, Crystal, and they discover they can actually communicate with one another. Did we mention Aubrey Plaza voices adorable Grumps, too?

Watch On Amazon Prime

Who's In It: Dale Midkiff, Fred Gwynne, Denise Crosby

Run Time: 1 hour 43 minutes

This thriller is best watched with the lights on. This adaptation of Stephen King's classic novel follows the Creed family as they move to a house in Maine that's next to an eerie pet cemetery. After the accidental death of their cat, they decide to bury it into the old pet cemetery, where it comes back to life. After another accident, they decide to do the same thing again, and well, let's just say it's not the best idea. Plus, if you're into the classic, the flick had a second adaptation in 2019.

Watch on Apple TV

Who's In It: Minami Takayama, Rei Sakuma, Haruko Kato

Run Time: 1 hour 42 minutes

This fantasy film shows what amazing companions cats can be. It follows Kiki (Minanmi Takayama), a young witch who moves to a seaside town with her talking black cat Jiji. She uses her magical abilities to start a delivery service, but later learns how she can stay true to herself in a new environment. While it focuses heavily on the protagonist, it also explores her close relationship with her talking feline.

Watch On Max

The 50 Best Dog Movies You Can Stream Right Now
Across the United States there are towns that are remarkable for their storied namesakes. From accidents to legends, each of these diverse towns has one thing in common: their strange names. Places like Hot Coffee, Mississippi and Chicken, Alaska are known for their obscure postal names but are full of character and community because of it.

1. Normal, Illinois

main street with movie theater in small town Normal, Illinois

Photo: Wikimediacommons.org via Willjay

The somewhat abnormal name of this town of 53,000 was taken from Illinois State Normal University, a normal school (or teacher training institution), which was located there. The school, now known as Illinois State University, is the oldest public building teaching higher education in the state.

2. Dummer, New Hampshire

landscape view of lake surrounded by trees

Photo: en.wikipedia.org

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This northern New Hampshire hamlet is home to about 300 citizens, who are probably just as clever as folks in the surrounding towns. The founder, a wealthy businessman from Portsmouth, clearly didnt think things through when he named the new town after Massachusetts Governor William Dummer (16771761).

RELATED: 10 U.S. Towns That Are Older Than America

3. Hell, Michigan

sign in hell michigan

en.wikipedia.org

Ready to go to Hell? Youll find this unincorporated village in south-central Michigan, just 20 miles from the bustling college town of Ann Arbor. The name may come from the German word hell, which means bright, or it could be attributed to the thick clouds of mosquitoes and deep forest found in the area when Western explorers first arrived.

4. Rough and Ready, California

gold rush themed town

Photo: en.wikipedia.org

With about 511 souls, this former Gold Rush town, founded in 1849, was named for a Wisconsin mining company, which was in turn named for General Zachary Taylor (nicknamed "Old Rough and Ready"), the 12th President of the United States. The companys founder, A.A. Townsend, had served under Taylor during the U.S.-Mexican War.

5. Chugwater, Wyoming

chugwater truck and trailer in small town

Photo: en.wikipedia.org

The Chug, a stream that runs through this scenic cattle-herding valley, gives the area its name. The most famous citizen of the town of around 178 was a rodeo horse named Steamboat, who served as the inspiration for the bucking bronco on the Wyoming state license plate.

RELATED: The Greenest Cities in America

6. Random Lake, Wisconsin

sign for random lake wisconsin

Photo: en.wikipedia.org

With around 1,600 residents, this town is part of the Sheboygan metro area and sits clustered on the shores of its eponymous lake. The first surveyors in the region named the body of waterand apparently they were feeling very uninspired that day.

7. Bigfoot, Texas

water tank in bigfoot texas

Photo: flickr via Jimmy Emerson, DVM

The state of Texas is rich in bizarrely named towns. This one, a village of 685 in Frio County, was first settled in the 1860s as Connally's Store," but later was renamed in honor of Texas Ranger William A. A. "Bigfoot" Wallace, a former resident of the town.

RELATED: The 20 Best Towns for Trick-or-Treating

8. Choccolocco, Alabama

post office in choccolocco alabama

Photo: flickr via Jimmy Emerson DVM

Located in northeastern Alabama, this town of 3,246 had its moment of fame in the early 2000s, when The Choccolocco Monster was repeatedly sighted at the edge of the woods, scaring motorists. The culprit was later found to be a local teen who liked to dress up in a cows skull. The origin of the towns name remains a mystery.

9. Forks of Salmon, California

salmon river landscape view through mountains

Photo: flicker via Jimmy Emerson DVM

This unincorporated Northern California town was settled during the Gold Rush, and its name has nothing to do with eating a nice fish dinner. Instead, it comes from the hamlets position in between the north and south forks of the Salmon River.

10. Why, Arizona

road sign for why arizona against desert road landscape

Photo: en.wikipedia.org

This rural desert spot is home to around 65 people and got its name from the Y-shaped intersection of the two major highways, State Routes 85 and 86, that originally comprised the center of town. Its now a T intersection, but the name stuck.

RELATED: 16 American Cities That Have Never Seen Snow

11. Whynot, Mississippi

road sign for whynot mississippi

Photo: flickr via Old White Truck

David Ruffin, one of the crooners in the Temptations, came from this sparsely populated settlement near Mississippis eastern border. No one knows who gave it this name, or whybut after all, why not?

12. Boring, Oregon

man with bike near sign for boring oregon with farmhouse in background

Photo: en.wikipedia.org

This town at the foot of the Cascade Range is named for William Harrison Boring, a former Union soldier and farmer who settled the area in 1874. The townspeople embrace their low-key moniker with humor, and have adopted the tagline, An exciting place to live.

13. Bread Loaf, Vermont

landscape view of hills and town covered in snow

Photo: en.wikipedia.org

This unincorporated community gets its name from a loaf-shaped nearby mountain. Vermont does boast many excellent bakeries, but this community is known for the famed writers workshop held there every summer, sponsored by Middlebury College.

RELATED: 23 Brilliant Hacks to Help You Weather Winter

14. Peculiar, Missouri

road sign for peculiar missouri

Photo: flickr via Scott Robinson

After local folk found that all their other ideas for town names had already been taken, the postmaster settled on this one, figuring it would be too strange to be duplicated. The city now boasts a comical sloganWhere the Odds Are With Youand about 5,847 residents.

15. Embarrass, Minnesota

post office in embarrass minnesota

Photo: flickr via Jimmy Emerson, DVM

This unincorporated village gets its name from its river, which French fur traders dubbed Riviere d'Embarras, or, loosely translated, river of obstacles. It may not be an embarrassing place to live, but it probably isnt very comfortableit bears the dubious distinction of being the coldest place in Minnesota.

RELATED: These 30 Places Have the Worst Weather in America

16. Duckwater, Nevada

landscape view of town of duckwater in mountain valley

Photo: en.wikipedia.org

This high desert town gets its name from nearby Duckwater Creek, a well-watered marsh and a hospitable place for wild waterfowl. The area is also known for its hot springs, found on the tribal lands of the Duckwater Shoshone.

17. Accident, Maryland

welcome sign for accident maryland

Photo: flickr via kenficara

This small town in the mountains of far western Maryland is home to just over 300 people. The origin of its name is the result of a mistake made during a 1751 land survey. The town name dispersed among people during the Revolutionary War when soldiers were granted lots in the area.

RELATED: 7 Ways to Trace Your Home's History

18. Humptulips, Washington

road sign for humptulips washington

Photo: flicker via Jimmy Emerson, DVM

Native Americans of the Chehalis tribe gave the nearby river the name Humptulips, which may mean hard to pole (as in navigating with a poled canoe) or chilly region. About 250 people live in this village near the Washington coast.

19. Nameless, Tennessee

road sign for nameless tennessee

Photo: en.wikipedia.org

One legend has it that when local residents inadvertently left a blank space on a form requesting a post office, the federal government gave this place its moniker. Others believe the name was adopted in protest after Yankee feds rejected a name chosen to honor a Confederate general. Whatever its origin, the Nameless name has attracted attention from writers and travelers ever since.

RELATED: The 25 Most Walkable Cities in the United States

20. Hot Coffee, Mississippi

sign for hot coffee mississippi

Photo: flickr via Jimmy Emerson DVM

This celebrated spot in Covington County got its name from a wayside inn at the central crossroads, where fresh-brewed java, made from local spring water and beans roasted in New Orleans, was served to tired travelers.

21. Deadhorse, Alaska

woman airport worker standing outside of deadhorse airport in alaska

Photo: flickr via generalising

Only 25 to 50 permanent residents live in this community on Alaskas North Slope, hard by the Arctic Ocean. But because its a jumping-off point for oil workers and tourists, the population can sometimes swell as high as 3,000. The town is believed to have gotten its name from the Dead Horse Haulers Trucking company, which used to make runs to the settlement in the 1960s and '70s.

RELATED: 19 Places With (Almost) Zero Crime

22. Zzyzx, California

road sign for zzyzx california

Photo: en.wikipedia.org

This unincorporated flyspeck in the Mojave Desert was once known as Soda Springs, but a wily entrepreneur, who hoped to make the lands mineral springs into a tourist spot, changed its name into something more memorable. Now home to a desert study center run by a consortium of California State University campuses, its usually the last entry in the index of any U.S. atlas.

23. Cookietown, Oklahoma

sign for cookietown in small town oklahoma

Photo: flickr via cosedavadere

Another unincorporated town, Cookietown is located in Cotton County, Oklahoma. With a population less than 20 and spanning only a half-mile long, youll blink and miss this hidden treasure. Legend has it that the towns namesake comes from an old roadside store that would pass out delicious cookies to travelers passing through.

RELATED: The Best Small Cities to Live in Now

24. Correctionville, Iowa

old painted wood sign for correctionville iowa

Photo: en.wikipedia.org

Located in Woodbury County in Northwest Iowa, the 750 residents of Correctionville agree that their towns namesake is unique. This small farming community gets its name from the original surveying work done to plat the community in 1855. The surveyor marked the correction line to signify the Earths curvature, and the rest is history!

25. Santa Claus, Indiana

sign for santa claus indiana with large santa claus statue

Photo: en.wikipedia.org

Nobody quite knows how this community decided to name itself Santa Claus back in 1849 when it was founded. Regardless, this town has embraced their unique name by developing Christmas-themed attractions year-round. The town of about 2,500 rallies around the holiday and even responds to letters from little children across the nation who send their Christmas lists to the towns post office.

RELATED: 50 Tiny Towns That Attract Hordes of Visitors Every Year

26. Chicken, Alaska

store fronts in chicken, alaska

Photo: en.wikipedia.org

Founded in 1902, this village gathered for gold mining prospects. Over 100 years later, the town consists of a small general store and a handful of other shops that support the 12 full-time residents. The towns namesake comes from the large population of ptarmigan in the area, which is a 5-hour drive from Fairbanks, Alaska.

27. Waterproof, Louisiana

town hall in waterproof louisiana

Photo: en.wikipedia.org

This town of 600 has a rich history, and its namesake story is equally interesting. Louisiana steamboats would pass through the town regularly and due to the geography of the region, flooding on the Mississippi River was normal. While a steamboat passed through the flooded river banks one day, an early resident sat atop a large hill. As legend goes, the steamboat captain exclaimed that the man on the hill was waterproof; the man liked the sound of it so much, he penned the town name after this exchange.
Dussehra (which is also called Vijayadashami) is a Hindu festival that's celebrated around the world. Similar to Diwali, the holiday is widely celebrated in India. It comes at the end of a major festival called Navaratri. Dussehra typically happens in the month of September or October, though the date changes each year. This year, Dussehra is on October 24, 2023. If you're looking for Dussehra wishes to share with friends and family, we have 50 ideas ahead. But first, read on to learn more about the festival and what it celebrates.

"In India, the essence of Dussehra revolves around the victory of good over evil," Archita Sivakumar Fritz, founder and principal at Ready Set Bold shares with Woman's Day. She grew up celebrating Dussehra in India, and now is passing the traditions along to her children, who she is raising in Germany. "The intriguing aspect is how every state has its own unique way of celebrating it. In Bangalore, where I grew up, Dussehra was more than just a festival; it symbolized the Shakti  the divine feminine power. As a woman, this festival always held a profound significance, resonating deeply with the strength and values my mom instilled in me."

Fritz also explains that the day celebrates the victory of Lord Rama over Ravana and Goddess Durga's triumph over the buffalo demon Mahishasura. "The festival's very essence is victory  victory of good over evil, of righteousness over deceit," she says.

Wondering how to wish someone a happy Dussehra or Vijayadashami? Here are 50 Dussehra greetings to get you started.

Dussehra Wishes

Woman's Day/Getty Images

May this festive season bring plenty of joy to your life.



Wishing you a very Happy Dussehra!

Happy Vijaya Dashmi!

Wish you health, wealth and prosperity!

This Dussehra, may your family be blessed with good health and fortune.

Dussehra celebrates the triumph of good over evil. May your life be full of goodness in the coming year.



Woman's Day/Getty Images

On this day of Dussehra, may your home be filled with divine energy.

Hoping Dussehra brings warmth and peace into your life.

Wishing you and your family a beautiful Dussehra.

May you have a blessed Dussehra.

Hope this Dussehra is the start of a year where all your dreams come true.



May you be guided towards knowledge, spirituality, and truth as you continue your journey.



Wishing you and your loved ones a peaceful and happy Dussehra.

May good triumph over evil in your life this year.

May you feel reverence as you celebrate this important day.

Dussehra Greetings



Woman's Day/Getty Images

May good triumph over evil in your life, on Dussehra and every day after.

May Lord Rama bless you with success on this special day.

May all the evils in your life be banished by goodness.

Happy Dussehra! May the joys be multiplied and the evil defeated.

My wish for you on Dussehra is that you never forget the strength you carry within you.

May you be thankful for the spiritual beings that guide you.



Woman's Day/Getty Images

Wishing you the happiest of Dussehra celebrations.

This Dussehra, I hope you make every act a purposeful one.

May Goddess Durga bless you with health, wealth, and prosperity.

Enjoy your Dussehra!

This Dussehra, I hope you remember that all the instruments and tools you use are extensions of your dharma



May your path be lit by strength, fortune, and light.

May you be blessed with knowledge, music, and art this Dussehra.

Have an amazing Dussehra!

Happy Dussehra Wishes



Woman's Day/Getty Images

Hope this years Vijayadashami leaves you feeling victorious.



May your sorrows burst away like the fireworks we celebrate with.

Sending you warm wishes this Dussehra.

May this years Dussehra celebration leave your spirit feeling light.

Wishing you the wisdom to remove all negativity from your life.

May this Dussehra start your successful journey forward.



Woman's Day/Getty Images

I hope this year's Dussehra brings smiles as bright and luminous as the fireworks you celebrate it with.

Wishing a Dussehra that leaves you in good spirits.

Focus on the good this year, not the evil.

May all of the people you love be blessed.



May the truth always triumph; may the good always win over evil.

Wishing a very happy and blessed Dussehra to you and your loved ones.



Woman's Day/Getty Images

Carry the joy of Dussehra with you, and remember it on your darker days.

May all the worries and problems in your life be burned like the effigy of Ravana.

Hope this years Dussehra is full of all your favorite things.

Wishing you a Dussehra filled that feels meaningful and happy.

This Dussehra, remember that though evil may put up a fight, goodness always triumphs.



May the Dussehra fireworks light your way this year.

May you be overjoyed at the blessings Shakti bestows on you this year.

Wishing you a year as dazzling as the Dussehra fireworks.

May this Dussehra mark the start of a year filled with prosperity.

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Amazon is testing a new free shipping minimum of $35 for non-Prime members in some markets, according to the companys website.

While the default minimum still appears to be $25 for now, Amazons higher free shipping threshold is determined randomly via ZIP code-grouped regions.

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We continually evaluate our offerings and make adjustments based on those assessments, an Amazon spokesperson said. Were currently testing a $35 minimum for non-Prime customers to qualify for free shipping. Prime members continue to enjoy free delivery on over 300 million items, with tens of millions of items available for free Same or One-Day Delivery.

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Amazon has tweaked the free shipping threshold for non-Prime members in the past. In 2016, it raised the minimum to $49 from $35, then reverted back to the earlier threshold a year later before dropping the minimum down to $25 in an effort to better compete with Walmart.

Currently, Walmart also has a $35 free shipping minimum for shoppers who arent part of its loyalty program and Prime competitor, Walmart+.

Raising the free shipping threshold could push more shoppers to sign up for the Prime membership program, which includes free, two-day delivery; access to streaming services; and other perks. Amazon hasnt publicly stated its membership totals since 2021, when founder and then-CEO Jeff Bezos revealed that the company had 200 million Prime subscribers.

The change does not impact Prime members, who pay $139 annually or $15 per month.

The e-commerce giant is looking to recoup more costs across its fulfillment operation, which saw paid units shipped rise 9 percent in the second quarter, outpacing a 6 percent rise in shipping costs.

In October, Amazon will impose a small fee on sellers who opt out of using its own logistics and fulfillment services, which Bloomberg reported as 2 percent on top of the commission they already pay to sell products. The decision is a bold one for the tech titan, which is expected to be slapped with an antitrust lawsuit from the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). The government agency reportedly will claim that Amazon steers sellers to its own fulfillment and logistics services.

All of this comes as Amazon is quietly rearming its third-party ground delivery capabilities in direct competition with UPS and FedEx.

The company recently relaunched Amazon Shipping, a service designed for shippers that arent selling products on the companys online marketplace. Amazon Shipping is a reboot of a pilot service it had discontinued early in the Covid-19 pandemic, when the company delivered non-Amazon packages via its own logistics service.

Amazons updates to its fulfillment network come as the Everything Store endures an ongoing strike from delivery drivers and dispatchers formerly contracted by the company.

Two months after beginning an unfair labor practice strike at Amazons DAX8 delivery station in Palmdale, Calif., on June 24., a group of 84 workers have extended their picket line to a 12th location DJC5 in Hollister, Calif. The group has picketed a dozen Amazon warehouses around the country, including facilities in California, New Jersey, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Michigan and Georgia.

Drivers in Palmdale initially organized with the Teamsters in April to protect their safety in extreme temperatures, which regularly exceed 100 degrees during Palmdale summers. Under their Teamster contract, the workers are guaranteed to drive safer equipment and refuse unsafe deliveries.

The drivers and dispatchers work for Battle-Tested Strategies, a last-mile delivery company that served as a former delivery service partner (DSP) of Amazon, before the e-commerce giant terminated the partnership on April 14. As a result, the Teamsters-represented employees filed unfair labor practice charges against Amazon in May.

Amazon said Battle-Tested Strategies was cited for breach of contract five times, most notably for failing to follow proper safety procedures, maintain its fleet and pay insurance providers. The company has refused to recognize the union.

Despite Amazons confirmation that the partner delivery firm no longer works for the company, the union and the select employees still refer to themselves as Amazon workers.

Since this strike started on June 24, these Amazon workers have remained united in pursuit of fair pay and safe jobs, said Victor Mineros, secretary-treasurer of Teamsters Local 396 in Los Angeles. Despite Amazons illegal refusal to recognize their union or engage in bargaining, the community and fellow workers in this industry have consistently shown unwavering support. Millions of Teamster members stand shoulder to shoulder, with firm resolve, supporting their brothers and sisters at Amazon. Together, we are resolute in holding this corporate criminal accountable for its treatment of their workers.

The strike will continue until Amazon reinstates the terminated Palmdale employees and recognizes the Teamsters, the union says. Additionally, the union says it will strike until Amazon respects the contract negotiated by the workers, and bargains with it to address low pay and dangerous working conditions.

Click here to read the full article.
Republican attorneys general from more than a dozen states are urging the Securities and Exchange Commission to require a third-party audit of Sheins supply chain for signs of forced labor before the Chinese-founded e-tailer can move forward with its long-anticipated initial public offering.

Sheins growth has been built on nefarious business practices, wrote Austin Knudsen of Montana, Tim Griffin of Arkansas, Alan Wilson of South Carolina, Jonathan Skrmetti of Tennessee and 12 others in a letter to chairperson Gary Gensler dated Aug. 24.

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While the advertising puts a bright face on the company, there is a dark side to its rapid growth, they added. Various government, watchdog, and media reports have alleged that its rise has been made possible by forced labor, human rights violations, stealing other designers work and the peddling of clothing made with potentially hazardous materials.

The letter noted that while Shein has moved its headquarters to Singapore, the ultra-fast-fashion phenom still relies heavily on a vast manufacturing network thats centered on China. It ran through a list of familiar concerns, including Sheins alleged use of forced-labor cotton from Chinas Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region, as uncovered by a Bloomberg investigation last year; its purported copyright infringement of independent designers; its reported use of low-wage contract workers; and its so-called exploitation of Section 321 of the 1930 Tariff Act, better known as the de minimis exception, to avoid duties and scrutiny on shipments of less than $800 in value.

The missive also drew a connection between the Temu adversary and TikTok, deeming it one of the controversial platforms largest advertisers and claiming that it pays thousands of social media influencers to tout its products to consumers via short and addictive videos. Knudsen, who once dubbed TikTok a Chinese Communist Party spying tool, has himself successfully lobbied lawmakers to implement a first-of-its-kind ban on the app in Montana, though lawsuits currently playing out in court could derail it before its Jan. 1 implementation.

Its Sheins potential violation of the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act, or UFLPA, however, that garnered the biggest focus. The letter referred to the U.S. House of Representatives Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Partys ongoing investigation into whether Adidas, Nike, Shein and Temu are involved in the persecution of Uyghurs and other Muslim minorities. It said that Americas second most-downloaded shopping appTemu is the firsthas refused to engage with officials and is instead brandishing a purported self-financed and managed certification process to demonstrate its compliance with the law.

Shein has a documented history of lying about its labor practices, Knudsen and the others wrote, bringing up the Romwe owners spotty history with disclosures and a widely panned influencer trip. Even Sheins press tours with a carefully curated group of influencers meant to highlight how Shein claims it has brought its supply chain aboveboard, resulted in significant backlash and highlighted significant reasons for concern.

More evidence of pushback, even among its trend-loving Gen Z target demographic: Last month, a student at Los Angeless Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising made a Change.org petition demanding that the school cancel its Shein Project Launchpad program and honor the 12 promised scholarships with a sustainable fashion company that doesnt overproduce cheap disposable clothing and hasnt been accused of shocking human rights violations in sweatshops.

Even so, Sheins presence in the United States is growingand likely to grow further. It has a distribution center in Indiana and planned warehouses in California and the East Coast. Last week, the retail Goliath announced a one-third stake in Sparc Group, paving the way for Shein products appearing in Forever 21 outlets across the country.

Sheins policy is to comply with the trade laws of the countries in which we operate, a spokesperson said. We have zero tolerance for forced labor, and no contract manufacturers in the Xinjiang region. We will continue to engage with U.S. federal and state officials to answer their questions.

In their letter to the SEC, the attorneys general said that an IPO of this magnitudeinvolving a foreign-owned company that is facing credible concerns about its core business practicescannot move forward on self-certification alone.

Echoing similar correspondence that 22 members of the House of Representatives, led by Jennifer Wexton, a Democrat from Virginia, and John Rose, a Republican from Tennessee, sent Gensler in May, they asked the SEC to render independently verified compliance with Section 307 of the Tariff Act of 1930, which prohibits the import of any product manufactured wholly or in part by forced labor, a condition of being listed on a U.S.-based securities exchange.

American exchanges should have a zero-tolerance policy for foreign companies that seek access to our markets but refuse to follow our laws, especially when the implicated laws are meant to prevent serious human rights abuses, they said. We believe in upholding the rule of law and protecting our economy. Lip service is not enough; in this case, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission must trust, but verify that every such company is complying before it receives the privilege of being listed on an American securities exchange.

Click here to read the full article.
France is home to some of the world's finest wine, bread and cheese, not to mention the Champs-Elysees, the Eiffel Tower, unreal fashion, Normandy's rich history or that lady named Mona Lisa.

But grocery fans might want to add one more stop to their travel list: Costco, and the bakery section in particular.

If you're starting at your screen like it has five heads, why don't you direct your gaze toward this recent Instagram post from @costcobuys instead? The Costco enthusiast's account served up a heaping helping of wanderlust-worthy content in a video showcasing so many delicious desserts from a warehouse in France.

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View the original article to see embedded media.

"Any of these catch your eye?" asked the creator in the caption.

How about all of them? The video pans to cream puffs that look positively and perfectly flaky, tarts with a fluffy (and probably tangy-sweet) topping, donuts, flan, carrot cake and more.

"How about putting them in America?" a follower commented.

Or how about booking a trip to France? (Costco Travel can help you book it, for what it's worth.) Here are more delectable deets on the bakery section in Costco France.

Related: Costco Is Offering Refunds on One of Their Most Popular DrinksHere's Why

How Many Costcos Are In France?

Two. One, Costco Villebon-sur-Yvette, is situated about 13 miles south of Paris. Another, Costco Wholesale Pontault-Combault, is in an eastern suburb around 12 miles from the City of Love's center.

About 10 years ago, Costo indicated that they planned to open 15 units in France by 2025, but that hasn't come to fruition and (sadly) seems unlikely right now.

Related: Costco Just Brought Back a Fan-Favorite Item to the Food Court Menu, and Shoppers Are Losing It

What Travelers Love About Costco France

The recent Instagram post by @costcobuys isn't the first time people have brought up the French version of the Costco bakery.

A Reddit thread from 2020 called it "pretty much heaven on earth." Costco France's Instagram account provided some pandemic-era food porn that same year, posting a snap of "Chocolate Hazelnut Banana Pancakes covered in White Chocolate" that still has us drooling in 2023.

View the original article to see embedded media.

"I need this," commented one fan.

Last year, a Redditor visited one of the Costcos in France and posted their haul.

View the original article to see embedded media.

"I'm going to guess that croissants taste better in France even if they're actually the same," commented one person.

"They sure do," the original poster replied, adding as a side note, "What's interesting is that the fries don't leave that greasy residue in your fingers as fries in the U.S."

More recently, the Costco France account posted the same lemon tarts heralded by @costcobuys.

View the original article to see embedded media.

"Want to treat yourself this weekend with a little pastry?" the caption reads. "Why not try our Lemon meringue tartlets...For your health, eat at least five fruits and vegetables a day."

The lemon counts as fruit, right? If they were anything like the lemon cheesecake, which our reviewer called the "perfect summer dessert," the tartlets likely flew off the shelves.

All in all, American Costco shoppers would love a little taste of France closer to home, especially with peak travel season fading into the distance.

"Once again, Costco, Americans like these desserts too," wrote someone in @costcobuys' comment section.

"For the love of sugar, come to [the U.S.]," begged another fan.

"Im peanut butter and jealous that you have these," quipped another.

"Whole carrot cake  wow," said another. "I wait all year for the mini carrot cake cupcakes for Easter  so good! All-year full-size cakes would be fabulous."

"Take me with you next time," pleaded another fan on behalf of all of us.

For now, we'll take solace in the new strawberry ice cream at the food court on this side of the pond.
A woman walks with her child past the Crack Shack in the 9th and 9th area of Salt Lake City on Wednesday, May 31, 2023. | Jeffrey D. Allred, Deseret News

On Thursday, some Florida Gators fans will be congregating in the Beehive State to watch the Gators face off against the Utah Utes.

Those visiting Utah may be wondering: Wheres the best place to eat thats near the University of Utah stadium?

Heres a list of 10 places Florida fans can try. This list was created by putting the address of the Rice-Eccles Stadium into Yelp and searching for the top 10 highest-rated restaurants near the stadium.

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1. Osteria Amore

What to get: Tagliere dell Osteria (think local honey with artisan cheeses and meat), caprese, Siciliana salad (bright and simple salad with citrus and fennel), bucatini alla gricia (pasta with black pepper and black truffle) and filetto cacio e pepe (perfectly cooked filet mignon and simple and well-seasoned pasta).

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What to wear: Osteria Amore doesnt have a formal dress code.

Address: 224 S. 1300 East, Salt Lake City, UT 84102.

2. Nomad East

What to get: Children of the corn pizza (garlic cream, corn, mozzarella, chorizo, green onion, cotija and ranch), pretty in pink pizza (pink sauce, stracciatella, red pepper flakes, Fresno chili and dried oregano), wedge salad, cheese board and marinated olives.

What to wear: Nomad East doesnt have a formal dress code.

Address: 1675 E. 1300 South, Salt Lake City, UT 84105.

3. Salt & Olive

What to get: Smoked trout dip, bucatini (pasta with sausage ragu and burrata), the house pizza (it has a crushed tomato sauce and is topped with olives, prosciutto and burrata), the truffle pizza and the zeppole e limone.

What to wear: Salt & Olive doesnt have a formal dress code.

Address: 270 S. 300 East, Salt Lake City, UT 84111.

4. Bartolos

What to get: Beef tomato burrata, rigatoni bolognese, pistachio pesto mafaldine, mussels spaghetti, the grilled pork chop, the top sirloin, trout almondine and the chicken parmigiana.

What to wear: Bartolos doesnt have a formal dress code.

Address: 1270 S. 1100 East, Salt Lake City, UT 84105.

5. Franklin Ave. Cocktails & Kitchen

What to get: The deviled eggs, the baby back ribs, steak tartare, the loaded potatoes, the steak salad, the wagyu steak, the pappardelle (broccolini, spicy sausage, heirloom tomatoes, feta and mint) and the chocolate cremeux.

What to wear: Franklin Ave. doesnt have a formal dress code. It is restricted to people above the age of 21.

Address: 231 S. Edison St., Salt Lake City, UT 84111.

6. The Crack Shack

What to get: The firebird sandwich, the fire nugs, the buffalo soldier sandwich, the power bowl, the classic slaw, the shack fries and the mini biscuits.

What to wear: The Crack Shack doesnt have a formal dress code.

Address: 912 E. 900 South, Salt Lake City, UT 84105.

7. Trolley Cottage Cafe

What to get: The parmesan brioche toast, the house smoked salmon tartine, buttermilk pancakes, croque madame, the vegetable omelette, the hummus and falafel, house turkey breast sandwich and grilled chicken and brie sandwich.

What to wear: Trolley Cottage Cafe doesnt have a formal dress code.

Address: 703 E. 600 South, Salt Lake City, UT 84102.

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8. Purgatory

What to get: Japanese style croquettes, buffalo cauli bowl, parmy fries, curry fries, Japanese curry rice, the patty melt, the eastern burger and the ABB grilled cheese (a braised beef grilled cheese with mustard sauce and Japanese mayo).

What to wear: Purgatory doesnt have a formal dress code.

Address: 62 E. 700 South, Salt Lake City, UT 84111.

9. Tradition

What to get: Funeral potatoes, fried green tomatoes, chicken croquettes, beet salad, roasted game hen, eggplant katsu, trout, pork chop and Tradition burger.

What to wear: Tradition doesnt have a formal dress code.

Address: 501 E. 900 South, Salt Lake City, UT 84105.

10. WildWood

What to get: Little gem (Green Goddess style salad), chicken wings, burrata salad, roasted cinnamon beets, the fried chicken, the chicken hash, steak and frites, quail panzanela and buttermilk scones.

What to wear: WildWood doesnt have a formal dress code.

Address: 564 E. 3rd Ave., Salt Lake City, UT 84103.
British holidaymakers have described being trapped on runways for hours or left to consider driving home from locations as far-removed as Turkey, after a major fault with the UKs air traffic control system cast air travel into utter dissaray.

With around a million passengers booked to travel on bank holiday Monday, airports were briefly forced to suspend all flights to and from the UK after air traffic control systems went down in a network-wide computer failure.

By the time National Air Traffic Services (NAST) announced at 3:15pm that they had identified and remedied the technical issue which had forced controllers to input all flight paths manually, more than 500 flights had already been cancelled  rising to 1,200 by the days end.

The knock-on effects of such disruption on one of the busiest days of the year has resulted in the worst day for UK air travel since the Icelandic volcano eruption in 2010  with pain for holidaymakers set to last for days to come.

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The Independent has heard from dozens of passengers whose plans have been plunged into chaos, with many now left stranded in foreign destinations with no replacement flights available for several days  amid a desperate scramble for last-minute accommodation.

Concerned relatives back at home said they feared loved ones travelling with heart problems or conditions such as epilepsy could see their ailments exacerbated by the stress of waiting for hours on the tarmac, in airport lounges and in queues for luggage or information.

Many also warned they would miss out days of paid work as a result of the disruption, with others fearing they would miss important occasions they had hoped to mark with relatives overseas, including birthdays and the scattering of a loved ones ashes.

David Hill, a 61 year old GP in Surrey, and his wife had been staying with friends in the south of France, and had been set to fly home from Nice at 7:45pm in order to be back for appointments with his patients from 8:30am until 7pm on Tuesday.

More than 1,200 flights were cancelled due to the outage on Monday (AP)

When their departure time changed initially to 6am on Tuesday, they booked a hotel for the night  but were told shortly afterwards that their flight had been changed again to 2am, before it was again shifted to 4:30am and eventually cancelled.

There are now no replacement flights available until Thursday and EasyJet has said it is unable to help the couple find a hotel, Mr Hill told The Independent.

Ashleigh Blaney, a 34-year-old finance assistant from Glasgow had been in Amsterdam watching the Dutch Grand Prix with her brother, both of whom found themselves stranded in Schiphol Airport after their flight to Glasgow was cancelled.

Ms Blaney told The Independent that they had been queueing for over an hour in border control in an attempt to exit the airport, and that no one could tell them where they could pick up their checked-in luggage, describing the situation as an absolute nightmare.

There was chaos as the baggage collection at Gatwick, one passenger said (Chloe Lau)

While they had managed to rebook their flight tomorrow, it was arriving in Edinburgh instead  and there were no hotels available on the EasyJet app, Ms Blaney said. Her brother, who had been due to fly to Gran Canaria at 6am tomorrow, will no longer be able to make his trip.

Susan Fairbrass, who was due to be scattering her father-in-laws ashes tomorrow, said her groups EasyJet flight to Nice at 6:15 pm was delayed until 4:53am  and then cancelled completely.

While they were finally able to book replacement flights for 6:15pm on Tuesday, these were more expensive and no voucher codes were available, while the airlines online chat service was unavailable, Ms Fairbrass said, adding: [We] hope Easyjet will play fair with us.

Gemma Breslaw, her husband and their two children  aged four and five  had been told they were facing awful delays of 12 hours at the airport in Rome, where they witnessed lots of angry people shouting at the staff, before their flight was ultimately cancelled.

Despite having found a hotel in Rome, the family were unable to find a flight to take them back to Gatwick until 7am on Wednesday. Describing herself as beyond fed up and annoyed, she said: Who wants that flight with two little kids?!

Joanne Colley, whose flight on the way out to Turkey had been cancelled as well as their return, said she, her husband their two boys  aged seven and nine  were now stranded in Dalaman, near Marmaris, with no flights scheduled back for the rest of the week.

Describing British Airways lack of communication as disgraceful, Ms Colley said the family were considering driving home from Turkey  before eventually managing to find a connecting flight to Istanbul at 6am on Tuesday, and another to the UK departing some 12 hours later.

She warned that both her and her husband are self-employed and would miss client meetings, deadlines and lose earnings as a result, while the delays meant there was no one to take care of their cat back at home.

Jo Colleys family were considering driving back from Turkey instead of waiting seven days for another flight from Dalaman (supplied)

Dawid Gorski, whose British Airways flight time from Stuttgart to Heathrow had changed multiple times, said: When I call their customer service number they just literally hang up on me and I cant do anything.

[It] feels like Im stuck at the mercy of a multi billion company. This is an actual joke and Ive never been more anxious in my life.

Chloe Lau, a 22-year-old software engineer living in St Albans, said it was utterly depressing that despite being a BA Executive Club member they could not reach the airline for information on whether they should cancel their holiday.

Ms Lau, who had been travelling from Gatwick to Tenerife for a six-day package holiday said it took her and her partner three hours to collect our stowed bags with no updates at all, and described chaos as the baggage collection, with hundreds of suitcases being hurled aside.

While those with cancelled flights were told to go to the check-in desks, she said there were no BA staff there when she arrived. We were told if we get re-allocated to a flight we would get an email sometime, Ms Lau added.

There were no BA staff at the check-in desks where Ms Lau was told to go for information (Chloe Lau)

There was better news, however, for broadcaster Gabby Logan, who revealed she was among those facing possible delays of 12 hours while stuck on the runway in Budapest after three weeks away from home.

In a happy travel story, she later announced that she was boarded and heading home, adding: We are very lucky.

However, a less optimistic passenger on Logans flight  who said they had been planning exotic rail journeys across Europe to get us back to the UK while stuck in the terminal  simultaneously told The Independent: Dont hold your breath for take-off.

Many were stuck on the tarmac for hours as the chaos unfolded.

This is awful; its like being in prison, said Courtney Bromfield, from Chelmsford, as she sat on the runway in Marbella. They have rationed food and drink and have already run out of supplies, adding: Its horrific  we need to be let off the tarmac and not kept here like cattle.

Its very worrying and people are panicking. Awful end to a holiday and no one seems to know whats going on. The pilot sounds nervous and is joining conference calls but has no updates. Meanwhile, were cramped up and rationing the little supplies we have.

David Miller, 47, had been especially keen to get home to Chester having been mugged on holiday in Barcelona  only to find himself facing 12-hour delays upon arriving at the airport.

Travellers wait near the British Airways check-in area at Heathrow Airport (REUTERS)

While he feared missed work hours on Tuesday and an unscheduled overnight stay at Heathrow lay ahead, Mr Miller praised the pilot for keeping passengers well updated, and sounded relatively unperturbed by the wait and harrowing holiday encounter as he joked: Everyones jovial, the air cons on.

Zach ODonnell, who found himself stuck on in limbo on an EasyJet plane travelling from Barcelona to Bristol, said : [The] funniest thing is that I was meant to fly home last night but instead spent 209 to change my flight to today so that I could go to the club again.

Going through this with the most severe hangover on earth after a 5am finish has been a challenge (but worth it for a dance).

Some, however, appeared to be looking forward to the night ahead. Having just returned from a wedding in Vienna, Sebastian James reached the gate when his groups Austrian Airlines flight was cancelled.

They have offered us a meal, taxi to central Vienna and rooms in a hotel and told us to keep an eye on the news for updates. Were looking forward to a night in Vienna, he said.

And in rare instances, the airport experience itself provided trip worth remembering. Gwen Magarotto told The Independent that her son Spencer and his family were forced to sit it out on the tarmac at Corfu after their flight to Exeter was delayed.

11-year-old Danny was over the moon to be shown round the cockpit as the Magarottos flight was held on the tarmac (Spencer Magarotto)

But for her 11-year-old grandson Danny, who adores planes, the experience became the highlight of his holiday after the kind pilot allowed him to sit in the planes cockpit while explaining what all of the various dials and mechanisms were.

Ms Magarotto said her grandson had been over the moon, but was soon left freezing once their plane finally touched down back in Exeter following their holiday in the Greek sun.
By Nouran Salahieh, Joe Sutton and Rachel Ramirez, CNN

(CNN)  Hurricane Idalia is expected to intensify considerably as it heads toward Florida, where officials already have told people to flee, closed schools and shuttered a major airport ahead of a predicted landfall Wednesday along the Gulf Coast.

With powerful winds and life-threatening storm surge, the hurricane is due to hit at Category 3 strength, and millions are under storm warnings, the National Hurricane Center said Tuesday.

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The National Guard is on call and evacuations underway as the storm could deliver a devastating blow to parts of Floridas Gulf Coast. It is expected to make landfall well north of Tampa, in Floridas Big Bend region  but a small shift in the track could put the vulnerable population center more at risk.

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Before landfall, Idalia could produce a few tornadoes Tuesday along the west central Florida coast and by Tuesday night northward into the Big Bend.

Storm surge  when a storms winds push the ocean onshore  could force water to rise up to 12 feet in parts of northern Florida, with the deepest water  along the immediate coast in areas of onshore winds, where the surge will be accompanied by large and dangerous waves, the hurricane center warned.

Heavy rain could produce flash flooding Tuesday into Wednesday across portions of the Floridas west coast and panhandle and southern Georgia, spreading Wednesday into Thursday into portions of the eastern Carolinas. Four to eight inches of rain could fall from Tuesday to Thursday in those places, flooding streets.

This is going to be a major hurricane, Gov. Ron DeSantis said at a Monday news conference.

The storm was churning early Tuesday with maximum winds of 75 miles per hour roughly 370 miles southwest of Tampa, the hurricane center said in a 5 a.m. update.

Track Idalia here >>

As the storm makes its way to Florida, preparations could be seen across the state. Heres the latest:

 Airports close: Tampa International Airport will suspend all commercial operations beginning Tuesday and stay closed until it can assess any damages later in the week, airport officials announced. The St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport Terminal building will close Tuesday afternoon.

 Evacuations in at least 10 counties: Hillsborough, Franklin, Taylor, Levy, Citrus, Manatee, Pasco, Hernando, Pinellas and Sarasota counties have all called for residents to evacuate certain at-risk areas.

 Schools close: 32 county school districts have issued closures, as have colleges and universities, including Florida State University, the University of Florida and Florida A&M University.

 Emergencies declared: DeSantis expanded an emergency declaration to 46 of 67 Florida counties on Monday morning. Several local jurisdictions have also declared emergencies.

 The Florida National Guard activated: More than 5,000 National Guard members were activated to help respond to the storm.

 US Navy ships begin leaving: Navy ships have begun leaving Florida ahead of Idalias landfall, the Navy said Monday.

 Power outages expected: DeSantis told residents to prepare to be without power. If you are in the path of the storm, you should expect power outages so please prepare for that, the governor told residents Sunday.

 Hospital system suspending services: Patients will be transferred from at least three hospitals: HCA Florida Pasadena Hospital, HCA Florida Trinity West Hospital, and HCA Florida West Tampa Hospital.

We want everyone to take this storm seriously, Barbara Tripp, Tampas Fire Rescue Chief said during a news conference, adding residents also should clear debris from property and look out for neighbors who may need help.

Once the wind reaches a certain miles per hour, Tampa Fire Rescue will not be able to respond, Tripp warned.

With the storm forecast to strengthen quickly as it tracks through the Gulf of Mexico, itll be tapping into some of the warmest waters on the planet ahead of making landfall in Florida. If it does, it would join a growing list of devastating storms like monster Hurricane Ian  which leveled coastal Florida and left more than 100 dead  to rapidly intensify before landfall in recent years.

Idalia posed a notable risk of this phenomenon, the National Hurricane Center warned Monday, as it travels through the Gulf of Mexico.

Water temperatures around southern Florida climbed to 100 degrees Fahrenheit in some areas this summer, and temperatures in the Gulf overall have been record-warm, with more than enough heat to support rapid strengthening.

Storm surge will be life-threatening

Deadly storm surge up to 12 feet is possible in Floridas Big Bend, a danger that only will be worsened by waves fueled by hurricane-force winds stronger than 100 mph. Storm surge accounts for nearly half of all hurricane-related fatalities, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration says, and is the reason behind most storm evacuations.

Cedar Key could be cut off by the high storm surge, National Hurricane Center Deputy Director Jamie Rhome said.

Im especially concerned for them, Rhome said during a briefing on Facebook Live. If youre watching from Cedar Key, it is imperative that you take this very seriously and if ordered to evacuate, heed those evacuations immediately. The entire island could be completely cut off with conditions like that.

Evacuation orders along the coast are in place because of the projected storm surge, Rhome stressed.

But its not just the coastal areas that could flood. Inland areas that receive evacuees could see hazardous flooding and heavy rainfall from Idalia. Heavy rainfall-related hazards can also occur as far as 100 miles away from where the storm center tracks, warned Andrew Kruczkiewicz, senior researcher at the Columbia Universitys Climate School.

This is something that were seeing more and more, and this is a climate change connection because were seeing wetter tropical cyclones and wetter hurricanes, he told CNN. So, we need to pay more attention to the risks associated with intense precipitation, especially in areas that are distant from the coastline.

The-CNN-Wire

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In a world where travel has become a journey of cultural discovery, finding the right destinations to begin your travels can be transformative. For first-time Black travelers, certain cities resonate not only for their captivating allure but also for the profound African diaspora connections they offer to shared history and heritage.

From the rhythmic beats of Afro-Brazilian culture in Salvador to the echoes of resilience in Cape Towns District Six Museum, these cities hold stories that intertwine with the African diaspora. Travel Noire has curated a list of international destinations where Black travelers can embark on an enriching journey of exploration and connection, embracing the past while forging a global future.

Cape Town, South Africa

Photo credit: MStudioImages

A vibrant city framed by the majestic Table Mountain, Cape Town beckons with its blend of stunning landscapes and a captivating history. Walk the streets of Bo-Kaap, adorned in vibrant colors. Explore Robben Island, a poignant reminder of the struggle against apartheid. Marvel at the sweeping views from Table Mountain, a backdrop to the diverse neighborhoods that make Cape Town a cultural mosaic. Dive into the District Six Museum, where the poignant narratives of forced displacement during apartheid come alive, resonating with the African-American experience. Cape Town is more than a destination; its an intersection of shared stories and resilience.

Salvador, Brazil

Photo credit: golero

Afro-Brazilian heritage reverberates through Salvadors cobblestone streets and lively festivals. This city pulses with vibrant culture, from capoeira performances to the rhythms of samba. Immerse yourself in Pelourinho, a UNESCO-listed historic center brimming with colorful facades and echoes of the African diaspora. Dive into Bahian cuisine, savoring acaraje and moqueca. Pay homage to Orixa traditions at Candomble ceremonies, celebrating the fusion of African spirituality and Brazilian identity. Salvador is a tapestry woven with resilience, blending history, music, and spirituality to offer African-American travelers an immersive journey into the heart of Afro-Brazilian culture.

Kingston, Jamaica

Photo credit: New Wave JA

In Kingston, the birthplace of reggae, the spirit of Bob Marley lives on in the heartbeat of the city. Feel the rhythm of Trench Towns streets, where reggaes roots run deep. Visit the Bob Marley Museum, where the legends life unfolds. Embrace the ethos of Rastafarianism at the Twelve Tribes of Israel headquarters.

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Kingston is a city that pulsates with the echoes of African heritage, from the vibrancy of the Coronation Market to the tranquility of Devon House. Beyond its sun-soaked beaches, Kingston offers Black travelers an opportunity to connect with Jamaicas soulful culture and reggaes unifying message.

Accra, Ghana

Photo Credit: Mikoko Delux/ Accra Fashion Week

A city of connections, Accra beckons Black travelers to explore their roots. Walk through the historic streets of Jamestown, where colonial remnants intertwine with immaculate street art. Engage with the Year of Return initiative at the Cape Coast Castle and Elmina Castle, poignant symbols of the transatlantic slave trades legacy. Embrace the vibrant energy of Makola Market and immerse yourself in kente weaving traditions. Accra offers a journey of reconnection, from the rich Adinkra symbols to the warmth of its people. This city stands as a bridge between past and present, extending an open invitation to Black travelers seeking to embrace their heritage.

Paris, France

Photo credit: Photodisc

While not an African destination, Paris has evolved into a multicultural hub that resonates with African-American travelers. Wander through the multicultural Belleville neighborhood, where diverse communities converge. Explore the African quarter of Chateau Rouge, alive with the vibrancy of Afro-French culture. Visit the Musee du Quai Branly, home to an extensive collection of African art. Paris showcases the fusion of cultures, inviting Black travelers to experience the dynamic interplay of identities, languages, and histories within the heart of France.

Cairo, Egypt

Photo credit: Spencer Davis

As you stand before the pyramids, youre connected to a tapestry of ancient African history. Cairos bustling streets and vibrant markets offer a sensory journey. Delve into the Nubian Museum, which celebrates the heritage of Egypts southern communities. Explore the historic district of Al-Muizz Street, a showcase of medieval architecture. Cairo invites African-American travelers to delve into its heritage that stretches across continents and millennia. As you navigate the streets, the echoes of ancient African civilization remind you that you stand on land with stories older than time itself.

Dakar, Senegal

Photo credit: Geraint Rowland Photography

In Dakar, the rhythms of life intertwine with history. Walk through the bustling markets of Sandaga and Soumbedioune, where traders connect cultures. Visit Goree Island, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a poignant reminder of the transatlantic slave trade. Experience the cultural vivacity of the Dakar Biennale, celebrating contemporary African art.

Dakar invites African-American travelers to embrace the diversity of Senegalese culture, from traditional Wolof music to the citys buzzing nightlife. This city unites Africa and the African diaspora through shared experiences and histories.

Lisbon, Portugal

Photo credit: @africanlisbontour | Instagram

While Lisbon might not be an African destination, it holds a unique Afro-Portuguese identity waiting to be explored. Wander through Mouraria, the birthplace of fado music, where African and Portuguese cultures have intertwined for centuries. Engage with the Afro-Lisbon narrative at the Museu Afro-Portugues. Lisbons historic Alfama district offers a blend of past and present, as the citys multicultural fabric becomes evident through its food, music, and neighborhoods. Lisbon welcomes travelers to delve into the fusion of cultures that have shaped this coastal city, creating a narrative that speaks to resilience, connection, and shared history.

Bridgetown, Barbados

Photo credit: Barbados Crop Over Festival

Barbados, known as Little England, presents a unique narrative of African diaspora heritage. Immerse yourself in the spirit of Bridgetown, where UNESCO-listed sites like the Garrison hold stories of colonial history. Delve into the origins of rum at the Mount Gay Visitors Centre. Pay homage to the Emancipation Statue, symbolizing the triumph of resilience over adversity. Beyond the turquoise waters and golden beaches, Bridgetown is where travelers can explore the interconnected stories of Caribbean history, from the hardships of the past to the spirited culture that thrives today.

Nairobi, Kenya

Photo credit: Antony Trivet

As you step into Nairobi, the dynamic capital of Kenya, youre greeted by a blend of tradition and modernity. Embrace the rhythm of Maasai Market, where artisans share their craft. Visit the Karen Blixen Museum, capturing the essence of colonial Kenya. Experience the Bomas of Kenya, where traditional dances come to life. Nairobi offers travelers a unique journey into the heart of Africa, where wildlife and urbanity coexist. This city stands as a gateway, inviting you to discover the rich tapestry of Kenyan culture, while also offering a deeper connection to the continents heritage.

London, United Kingdom

Photo credit: AzmanJaka

London is a mix of history, culture, and modernity with iconic landmarks like Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, and world-class museums. The citys diverse neighborhoods, from Brixton to Shoreditch, are where cultures intertwine. Explore the Black Cultural Archives, celebrating the contributions of Black communities in the UK. Londons West End offers acclaimed theaters and musicals, inviting you to experience the arts in a global city. From Camden Markets eclectic scene to the serene beauty of Hyde Park, London showcases the many cultures that call it home.

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Photo credit: Lorado

A city of picturesque canals and historic charm, Amsterdam invites you to discover its hidden gems. Explore the Anne Frank House, where historys lessons echo. Wander through the Jordaan district, a haven for artists and creatives. The Tropenmuseum presents stories of global cultures, reflecting the Netherlands colonial history. Amsterdams Surinamese and Afro-Dutch communities also add layers to the citys diversity. The Royal Palace and Rijksmuseum offer glimpses into Dutch heritage. Amidst windmills and cafes, Amsterdam beckons with its unique blend of tradition and cosmopolitan allure.

Cartagena, Colombia

Photo credit: Frazao Studio Latino

Stepping into Cartagena feels like stepping into a living history book. The citys UNESCO-listed old town, with its cobblestone streets and colorful colonial architecture, evokes a sense of enchantment. Wander through Plaza Santo Domingo and Plaza San Pedro Claver, where brilliant bougainvilleas and historic churches create a picturesque setting. The Castillo San Felipe de Barajas, a formidable fortress, bears witness to the citys storied past. Afro-Colombian culture is interwoven in Cartagenas fabric, from music to cuisine. The citys warmth, combined with its long history and coastal beauty, offers first-time Black travelers a worthwhile blend of discovery and connection.
Choose form light reds to chill, hearty wines to pair with meaty main dishes, and lots more.

Chilled reds for cool days

Even as summers warmth starts to fade, a chillable red wine is still a refreshing option, particularly for pre-dinner drinks. Pop these light-bodied reds in the fridge for half an hour or so to drop them a few degrees and add to their zippy freshness.

Frederick Hardy II / Food Styling by Ruth Blackburn / Prop Styling by Shell Royster

2022 Souleil Vin de Bonte Le Rouge ($17)

A cheerful, dark-ruby-hued Southern French blend of Grenache and Syrah, this appealing bargain offers crisp, peppery fruit and a lightly mint-eucalyptus finish.

NV Domaine Rimbert Cousin Oscar ($19)

This lighthearted red is a fine expression of Cinsault, its flavors lifted by a percentage of Pinot Noir. Its named after a cousin of vintner Jean-Marie Rimbert, who was a bit of a roue.

2021 Christina St. Laurent ($20)

Christina Netzl grew up on her familys farm in Austria and decided by age 5 that she wanted to be a winemaker. Smart decision, as this floral, peppery, lively red shows.

Frederick Hardy II / Food Styling by Ruth Blackburn / Prop Styling by Shell Royster

2020 Maison LEnvoye Fleurie ($21)

The wines of Fleurie are known for their fragrant grace. This is no exception: It tastes like what youd get if you waved a wand over a bowl of berries and turned them into flowers.

2022 Day Wines Vin de Days Rouge ($27)

The irrepressibly creative Oregon winemaker Brianne Day makes this crunchy cran-raspberry red from a blend of Pinots Meunier and Noir. Its super bright and full of life.

2021 Tarpon Cellars Cambaro ($28)

A low-alcohol (11.2% ABV), hard-to-resist blend of Nebbiolo, Primitivo, Syrah, and other grapes, this transparent red from winemaker Jeremy Carter suggests crisp watermelon and strawberries. Chill it down and drink it outside.

2022 Breaking Bread Al Dente Red ($30)

Erik Miller of Kokomo Winery in Sonoma County heads into natural wine territory (native yeasts, minimal intervention) with this light-bodied, Mourvedre-based red.

2022 Idlewild Flora & Fauna Red ($30)

Winemaker Sam Bilbros inspiration was to make a joyful Italian red wine using California sun, and thats what hes achieved here. A blend of Dolcetto, Barbera, and other Piedmontese red grapes from Northern California, this is all bright, crunchy red fruit and crisp acidity.

2020 Thibault Liger-Belair Bourgogne Les Deux Terres ($48)

My idea was to make a Gamay that combines the terroirs of Beaujolais and Burgundy, Thibault Liger-Belair says. The resulting unusual regional hybrid is lovely, floral, and berry-bright, its primary flavors resolving into earthy, peppery notes.



Fireside favorites

Theres something elusively but inarguably autumnal about certain wines  maybe its the dried-herb edge that Chianti Classico offers or the savory berry flavors of Pinot Noir. It can be hard to put a finger on, but its there when you taste it, as in these bottles.

Frederick Hardy II / Food Styling by Ruth Blackburn / Prop Styling by Shell Royster

2021 Tiberio Montepulciano dAbruzzo ($25)

This Italian red from the talented Cristiana Tiberio overperforms for its modest price, summoning the mountainsides of Abruzzo in its aromas of wild berries, violets, and savory herbs.



2020 Giovanni Rosso Langhe Nebbiolo ($27)

The Rosso family has farmed vineyards around Serralunga dAlba since the 1890s, which may explain how Davide Rosso can make such an expressive, floral Nebbiolo at such a modest price.

2021 Lieu Dit Santa Ynez Valley Cabernet Franc ($30)

Partners Eric Railsback and Justin Willett started Lieu Dit to focus on Loire varieties in California. This tingly Cab Franc is a winner: Its crisp and juicy, with blueberry and tobacco notes.

2018 Ruffino Riserva Ducale Oro Chianti Classico Gran Selezione ($39)

About as classic a Chianti as you can get, this gran selezione bursts with cherrydried herb notes, resolving into grippy tannins and an underlying forest-floor character.

2021 Herve Souhaut La Souteronne ($40)

Aromas of dry leaves and Ruby Red grapefruit lift from a glass of this savory Gamay. Herve Souhaut works 12 acres of old and ancient vines in the hills of the northern Ardeche for his distinctive wines.



2021 Melville Estate Sta. Rita Hills Pinot Noir ($44)

When I smell that blueberry character, thats like Ding! Ding! Ding! Santa Rita Hills! Chad Melville says, and thats definitely the case with his layered, complex estate Pinot.



2021 Domaine Faiveley Mercurey Vieilles Vignes ($49)

The 2021 Burgundy vintage was tiny, but the wines are elegant and precise. Take, for example, this Mercurey, with its red-berry fruit, faint whiff of vanilla, and supple, fine-grained tannins.

2020 Samsara Cuvee dInspiration Sta. Rita Hills Pinot Noir ($54)

This is such a seductive Pinot Noir: all crunchy raspberry-blueberry flavor, matched with herby- peppery grace notes that last. Kudos to winemaker Matt Brady.



2021 Gaja Sito Moresco Langhe Rosso ($75)

When you consider that Gajas other wines run $400 a bottle or so, this gorgeous blend of Nebbiolo and Barbera, full of red cherry and blood orange flavors, actually seems like a bargain.

Big red wines for roasts, stews, and braises

Hearty dishes deserve wines that have an equal level of richness. For a satisfying pairing, look to robust varieties like Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel (or Primitivo, as its known in Italy), and Malbec, among many others.

Frederick Hardy II / Food Styling by Ruth Blackburn / Prop Styling by Shell Royster

2019 CK Mondavi Family Select Cabernet Sauvignon ($16)

Cassis and dark cherry flavors mingle with light oak notes in this impressively appealing California Cabernet, from the Charles Krug Winery (so, CK) side of the Mondavi family.

2020 D.V. Catena 1910 Tinto Historico ($19)

Once the weather turns cool, this plummy, spicy-smoky Malbec from one of Argentinas greatest wine families ought to warm you right up. It gains complexity from small percentages of Bonarda and Petit Verdot in the blend.

2012 Cosimo Taurino Notarpanaro ($20)

Its hard not to think of cool fall days when you drink this Puglian red  its cherry liqueur, smoke, and tea leaf flavors are innately autumnal. (This is the current vintage; the Taurinos hold the wine back until they feel its ready.)

2020 Tormaresca Torcicoda Primitivo del salento ($25)

This red summons Southern Italy and its Mediterranean sun with the first sip. Its juicy and ripe, full of sweet plum and fig notes and is just as generous as the climate is in Puglia, where it comes from.

2020 Dry Creek Vineyard Heritage Vines Zinfandel ($28)

Sonoma Countys Dry Creek Vineyard has been making this rich, boysenberry-and-spice Zinfandel for much of the winerys 51-year history. Old-vine grapes give layers of depth to its luscious fruit.

2017 Scherrer Old & Mature Vines Zinfandel ($40)

Winemaker Fred Scherrer sources most of the grapes for this silky, inviting Zinfandel from his familys Scherrer Vineyard in Alexander Valley, which theyve farmed continuously since 1899.



2019 Brendel Coopers Reed Cabernet Sauvignon ($50)

Brendel, a new name on the Napa Valley wine block, uses organic grapes from vineyards on the warm valley floor to make this black-fruited, dense, plush-textured Cabernet.



Great wines for wild game

Hunting season isnt the only reason to look to venison and wild duck for dinner, but its a good one. And certain wines, particularly those with a savory edge like the ones here, seem inescapably suited to wild (or farm-raised) game.

Frederick Hardy II / Food Styling by Ruth Blackburn / Prop Styling by Shell Royster

2020 Mastroberardino Irpinia Aglianico ($23)

Campanias Mastroberardino achieved fame with its tannic, long-aging Taurasi reds. This more affordable bottling uses the same local grape, Aglianico, but places it in a more early-drinking, juicy mold.

2020 Argiano Non Confunditur ($24)

Winemaker Bernardino Sani blends Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Sangiovese for this fragrant, savory red  its essentially a Super-Tuscan at a non-super price, and it would be a perfect partner for pan-seared duck breast.

2020 Chateau Pegau Cuvee Setier Cotes du Rhone Villages ($28)

Laurence Ferauds is a top winemakers, and her Cuvee da Capo is one of Chateauneuf-du-Papes greatest wines. But she excels at affordable bottlings, too, like this peppery, black-olive-accented red.

2020 Jaffurs Santa Barbara County Syrah ($29)

A long-established name on Californias Central Coast, Jaffurs has been making Rhone-style reds since 1994. Among them is this black-peppery Syrah, full of blue and black fruit and layers of flavor.

2018 Marques de Murrieta Rioja Reserva ($32)

Year in and year out, this Rioja Reserva overdelivers on quality for its relatively modest price; its a superb Rioja, drinking impressively on release but able to age for years in a cellar, too.

2021 A Tribute to Grace Santa Barbara County Grenache ($36)

Who doesnt want the ethereal? says Angela Osborne of A Tribute to Grace regarding Grenache specifically the kind she likes to make. Try this transparent, fragrant red to see what shes talking about.

2019 Chateau Musar Hochar Pere et Fils Red ($39)

This single-vineyard blend of Cinsaut, Grenache, and Cabernet Sauvignon from Lebanon is spicy and complex, ideal for wild boar or venison. Its also an ideal introduction to the remarkable wines of Lebanon.

2018 Castiglion del Bosco Brunello di Montalcino ($70)

If youre planning a special dinner featuring game birds or wild boar, this Brunello is well worth the price. Its powerful but impeccably balanced, with savory herbal notes playing against its pure red-cherry fruit.



Sustainable and organic winners

Autumn is harvest season, and how a crop is grown matters both to your palate and to the planet. With that in mind, more and more wineries are focusing on sustainable and organic viticulture these days, yielding a cornucopia of excellent choices for conscientious consumers. My upcoming book, The World in a Wineglass (Scribner, November 2023), covers this in detail, but here are a few to look for now.

Frederick Hardy II / Food Styling by Ruth Blackburn / Prop Styling by Shell Royster

2020 Reyneke Vinehugger Red ($15)

Johan Reyneke started farming organically the day his family bought this 90-acre farm; he was also the first vintner to achieve biodynamic certification in South Africa. His affordable Syrah is alluringly savory and smoky.

2019 Famille Perrin Nature Cotes du Rhone Rouge ($15)

The Perrin family, of Chateau de Beaucastel fame, doesnt advertise their organic practices on their labels, but theyve worked that way since 1950, making wines like this ripely red-fruited Cotes du Rhone.

2020 Mas de Gourgonnier Les Baux de Provence Rouge ($17)

Founded in the 1970s, Mas de Gourgonnier was one of the first organic estates in Frances Languedoc. Its wild berryscented red remains a serious value to this day.

2021 Turning Tide Cabernet Sauvignon ($19)

Winemaker Alisa Jacobson sources CCOF-certified organic grapes from Central Coast vineyards for this robust red; its flavor recalls blackberries with a hint of espresso.

2021 Domaine Bousquet Gran Cabernet Sauvignon ($20)

This fruit-forward, luscious Argentinean Cabernet comes from Bousquets 618 acres of organically farmed vines in Mendoza. Its a steal at this price.

2019 Salcheto Vino Nobile di Montepulciano ($25)

Salcheto follows any number of eco-friendly practices to lower its carbon footprint and also farms organically  all while making alluring wines like this supple Italian red.

2020 Kind of Wild Montepulciano dAbruzzo ($26)

Herb-rubbed pork roast? This spicy Italian red would be the ideal partner. Its full of fruit, rustic in the best way, and made from 100% organic grapes. (Find it at kindofwildwines.com.)

2021 Frogs Leap Napa Valley Zinfandel ($40)

Frogs Leaps rebuilt farmhouse was the first LEED-certified winery building in California. Plus, the wines, like this plush, boysenberry-scented Zinfandel, are excellent.

2020 Chateau lHospitalet La Clape Grand Vin Rouge ($42)

Languedoc winemaker Gerard Bertrand farms over 1,000 biodynamic acres of vines, more than any other producer in France, making wines from them like this spicy, Syrah-based red.



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Read the original article on Food & Wine.
Lit Wisconsin is a sporadic series of stories in which we highlight the work of writers of Wisconsin or those with ties to the state.

Today we learn about Kathy Buchen, a retired librarian from Menasha who primarily writes cozy mystery stories set in Door County.

About the author, Kathy Buchen

Buchen has been writing stories since she was in elementary school and has been penning full-length novels for 30 years. She grew up in Appleton and graduated from Xavier High School and the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh. She earned her master's degree in library science and worked at libraries in Appleton and Waupaca before retiring from the Menasha Public Library in 2021.

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She's written eight Rhiannon Nolan novels set in Door County. The heroine Rhiannon is named after an "elusive, changeable and magical woman" of Celtic mythology, Buchen wrote on her website, and she gets into all kinds of mischief while solving murders across Door County. Now Buchen continues the series with Rhiannon's daughter, Tabby, and Tabby's punk rocker friend, Krystal, doing the investigating.

Cozy mystery stories stir up Buchen's storytelling impulses. "I feel faintly guilty having such rollicking fun writing my mysteries when others struggle with writer's block," she said in an email interview. "When I was working at the library and raising my family, who have given me a lot of material for my books, I sometimes woke up at two in the morning with my head on the (keyboard) because the next chapter was burning in my brain, begging to get onto the page."

Buchen self-publishes her books. "It is discouraging to get a publisher," she said. "In the past, I got so many rejections I couldn't count them, so I decided, along with most writers of cozy mysteries, to self-publish."

Self-publishing gives her the freedom to write what she wants. She said she has tried to write romances and thrillers, genres that tend to have commercial appeal, and it just didn't work.

"I decided to stick with what I'm good at, which is light, feel-good cozy mysteries with a lot of humor and no angst."

Related: Appleton author, UWO alum releases epic fantasy novel set in parallel 1800s

Related: Green Bay author pens a series of novels set on Mackinac Island

The cover of one of Kathy Buchen's cozy mystery books: "Game of Scones."

About the book, 'Game of Scones'

In "Game of Scones," Tabby and Krystal, the second generation of Door County sleuths, get caught up in murder. The two punk rockers are also nurses, and the mystery they are called to untangle has a medical twist.

The story gets started when Tabby suspects that a death at the Cana Island Lighthouse, deemed an accident by authorities, is a murder. She drags Krystal into a labyrinthine mystery of seedy Door County life, having to interrogate a long list of "meddlers, villains, criminals, manipulators and murderers" along the way.

Along the way, readers get some Door County recipes for scones, cherry pies and other baked goods.

How to buy 'Game of Scones'

"Game of Scones" and many of Buchen's other books are available at libraries in and around Door County. Readers can buy paperback copies for $15 on Amazon.com and members of Kindle Unlimited can download them for free. Her books also are for sale at Novel Bay Booksellers in Sturgeon Bay.

This article originally appeared on Green Bay Press-Gazette: Former Menasha librarian Kathy Buchen writes Door County mysteries
My son is 5 and already he knows that he has something valuable and specific to teach me. Not in the way that all of our children teach us something: about who we are as people or about how to see the world in new ways, but when I gave up some parental power it allowed us both to connect and flourish in unexpected ways.

When we were on our honeymoon in Japan, my husband, whose mother is Japanese and who spent summers growing up in Kyushu, told me that being able to feel at home in Japan and being able to move comfortably in both Japan and the US was one of his favorite things about himself. Over the years, Ive traveled to Japan many times and I have also fallen in love with it: both as a place and as an intrinsic part of who my family is. I have friends and family there now and there are places in Japan that feel like home: in a way that is familiar and influential, but never mine to own.

I wanted to help my son to not only fall in love with the world, but to know his precious and unique place in it.

When I gave birth to our son, I knew that I wanted him to feel the same way: proud of his Japanese heritage, and a sense of belonging there. I wanted to help my son to not only fall in love with the world, but to know his precious and unique place in it. I wanted him to have the same fluency between worlds that my husband had. But how could I give him ownership of something that didnt belong to me? What was my role here as his white parent?

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I knew that part of my responsibility was to ensure that English language and American culture (such as it is) are not the default in our home. I knew this would require working against muscle memory: not just my own, but our countrys, where white and American are still in most places considered the default.

Part of the solution was to send him to a Japanese preschool close to our house. We also eat lots of Japanese food and watch movies in Japanese. My spoken and listening Japanese is slowly getting better. I was taking classes before the pandemic, but when my sons school closed, my time for classes evaporated.

Since we were both at home, we embarked on learning together. I joked that I knew toddler Japanese: how to count and the names of farm animals. Because of his interest in vehicles, we learned all the Japanese words for garbage truck, fire engine, delivery van and bulldozer.

This is an offering of love, a gesture of recognition that this part of him is part of what makes him special.

Even after he went back to school, I continued to practice my Japanese with him. I put effort into speaking his language, yes, but I consider this to be the bare minimum. This is what we do to love our children: we choose to enter their world and remind them of how much they enrich ours.

I try not to make my lack of Japanese his problem. I keep myself out of frustration by inviting him to teach me. I hand over a source of power that parents often have: a command of language. I humbly hand over that power; I smile and shake my head. I make notes of words to learn. I practice and he giggles at me sometimes. I try to measure up, to make him proud of me. To learn a new word, to watch his face light up when I master a new expression. This is an offering of love, a gesture of recognition that this part of him is part of what makes him special.

Our children shape us. They are our fragile hearts living outside our bodies. I do not explain yet that there are people who would harm him for his race, although I think about it. I think about the spa shooting, and the fact that Asian elders are attacked here in our city.

But I do not let the fear rule me. If we are out running errands together, I will speak to him in Japanese. He grins up at me, relishing our shared (and somewhat secret) language. It is a part of us: him and me. This is part of what makes us special.

At the end of the school year, many of his friends were moving away to other schools, including mainstream public schools where only English would be spoken. I asked him, hypothetically, whether he would want to go to a new school or stay at his current school. He said going to a new school seemed fununtil I explained that they would only speak English there. When I asked him why he wanted to stay in a school where he spoke Japanese, he told me, So I can teach you things.
Massena LAB, headed up by William Massena, longtime collector and watch industry insider, is a collaborative studio that develops timepieces with a number of partners, each of which is very different from the next. Almost all these collaborations are based on an existing watch or concept. And so is the brand-new Chronograph Monopoussoir Sylvain Pinaud x Massena LAB, a handcrafted timepiece soon available in a limited edition of just 10 pieces.

In 2019, Massena met Sylvain Pinaud, who won the Grand Prix dHorlogerie de Geneves Revelation Prize for his impressive Origine watch in 2022. The company head instantly became enamored with the French-born watchmakers titanium monopusher chronograph, whose restrained yet superbly crafted movement was (and remains) of his own creation with the exception of the gear train. He made the watch to compete in the famous competition Meilleurs Ouvriers de France (MOF), which honors the best French craftspeople, which he won in 2018. Massena wanted to order the watch for himself, but with a revised case design, which in turn inspired his friends to order similar timepieces, forming the origin of this project. The easygoing watchmaker works out of his Ste. Croix, Switzerland workshop, where he settled in 2018 after leaving the employ of Carl F. Bucherer as a prototype maker.

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Chronograph Monopoussoir Sylvain Pinaud x Massena LAB

The practically fully handmade, hand-wound movement boasts an integrated column wheel chronograph with a horizontal clutch; the elegant chronograph is entirely controlled using just one button for start, stop, and reset. The hand-finished chronograph components are delightfully exposed on the bottom third of the dial, making the timing processes visible. The small, off-center dial at 12 oclocktime is definitely secondary on this timepiecewas crafted by Comblemine, famous independent watchmaker Kari Voutilainens high-end dial manufacture.

Chronograph Monopoussoir Sylvain Pinaud x Massena LAB

The watchs 42 x 11 mm titanium case is svelte and modern with sapphire crystal windows forming parts of the sidesin contrast to the movement and dial, which look more rooted in tradition. The transparency of the case and dial aesthetics allow views into the spectacularly artistic yet technical movement from just about any angle.

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Production will be limited to just three timepieces per year due to the high degree of work that must be carefully accomplished by hand, however, interested parties should register interest immediately for a chance at acquiring one. The price is set at CHF 130,000 (Approximately $147,000 at current exchange rates).

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For men who experience infertility, the use of donor sperm to fertilize an egg is a safe and reliable means to parenthood. When male partners have azoospermia (absence of sperm) or extremely low sperm counts, using a sperm donor can help couples conceive which otherwise may not get an option to do so, says Dr. Natalie Crawford, a fertility specialist and health educator in Austin, Texas.

How do you know if using donor sperm is the best option for you? And what is it like to use a sperm donor? Heres how these men experienced it.

Whether or not they share my DNA isnt the end-all, be-all

Stefan (last name withheld for privacy reasons) knew in advance that he and his wife would need help getting pregnant. We knew early on it was the route we were gonna have to go. Fertility issues run deep on my wifes side of the family. At the fertility clinic, both were tested, and he learned that his sperm count was low.

The 43-year-old Ohioan was in a unique position, having taken a job at the clinic as a scheduler and later doing administrative work for nurses. Working there took away the stigma, he tells Yahoo Life. Getting help is what the clinics are there for. Not only did he feel comfortable seeking that help, but he didnt feel alone in the process of selecting a donor.

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I talked to my best friend about it, Stefan says. I felt like I had some support. My wife and I asked him to be the donor [which is considered a known donor, typically a family member or friend who voluntarily donates their sperm], but the plan fell through due to bad timing.

They selected an anonymous donor and, fortunately, Stefans wife was able to use her eggs with the assistance of medication. After getting pregnant, they learned they were having have twins. We were the oddity. Everyone assumes if you go to a clinic, you will have multiple kids. But most pregnancies at the clinic are single. His twins, now 4 years old, were born at just 25 weeks, and each weighed less than 2 pounds. It was touch-and-go for a while, he says. We spent 112 days in the NICU. It was a rough time, but we made it through and have great kids.

For Stefan and his partner, their priority, like most parents, is the happiness and health of their kids. At the end of the day, we want our kids to know they are loved, he says. Whether or not they share my DNA isnt the end-all, be-all. Using a donor helped me become a parent, and I wouldnt be the parent I am today without it.

In all honesty, the thought of another mans sperm in her was the hard part

John O., who resides in Seaford, England, visited a fertility clinic for testing after four years of trying to conceive naturally. For the 49-year-old, the decision to seek help was a relief and heartache at the same time. His partner received a positive result from testing and was deemed fertile, but after various tests John himself received an assessment of low fertility. I had next to no healthy sperm, he says. Possibly genetic, possibly lifestyle and age.

It was Johns partner who suggested using donor sperm. I was reticent at first. But then I warmed to the idea, he tells Yahoo Life. In all honesty, the thought of another mans sperm in her was the hard part. His partner assured him it was just medical assistance.

John and his partner attempted artificial insemination, but it didnt work. Unable to afford in vitro fertilization, his partners next suggestion was natural insemination, as in trying to conceive through sexual intercourse with a sperm donor. The intrusion bothered me and the idea of another man having an orgasm to help us felt weird, he admits. I thought long and hard on it. And while it wasnt easy to agree to, I wanted to make her happy.

It took them six weeks to select a donor for natural insemination, using websites like JustABaby.com and PollenTree.com. A few donors flaked out, and we ditched a few before meeting, John says. But eventually they agreed on a donor. Unfortunately, natural insemination didnt work. In a few months, they plan to look for a new donor to try natural insemination again. Then, if no joy, we will adopt.

We tried our best to find someone with a physical resemblance to me

Jon in Southern California decided to use donor sperm after a visit to a fertility clinic revealed he had an extremely low sperm count. After examining his medical history, the doctors connected his infertility to an illness in his early 20s.

Jon decided against attempting to increase his sperm count with medical assistance; he and his partner wanted to pursue the fastest route to pregnancy. We both wanted a child, he says, and a sperm donor was the quickest way to do it.

Jon and his partner spent a week searching through a donor book. When we looked through the book, we tried our best to find someone with a physical resemblance to me, he tells Yahoo Life. You get numbers and facts but no picture. We went back and forth asking, How about this one? After settling on a donor, they received three vials of sperm. Using a donor didnt bother me. I knew I was going to love whatever we had. I didnt think it needed to be my DNA, he adds.

The first and second vials didnt work. They agreed that if the third vial didnt work, they would pursue adoption. Fortunately, it did, and his partner got pregnant  just as COVID-19 shut down the world. Talk about ways to bind two people together, Jon says. She was super-pregnant, and we were isolated. We had our child in the middle of COVID. All three of us isolated in the house.

Does he wish he had more support in terms of going through infertility? I was totally OK with it, he says. It turns out our child is the most amazing thing ever. That might not have happened with my own DNA. Im happy with the results. I cant tell you how often people come to me  people who have no idea we used a donor  and tell me my daughter looks like me. We never correct them.

What fertility experts say

Risks involved in using donor sperm are managed by intense screening of donors. Medical screening of sperm donors is performed under the direction of the FDA, says Dr. Quinton Katler, a reproductive endocrinologist in Atlanta. FDA screening includes a donor physical exam, donor questionnaire, medical history review and a sperm quarantine period with repeat infectious disease testing.

An advantage of using donor sperm is it can provide a faster router to pregnancy than attempting to raise extremely low sperm counts. Couples may decide that using a sperm donor makes the most sense versus coming off some medications and waiting three to six months to see if sperm counts improve, says Crawford.

Other issues to consider when using donor sperm include selecting a sperm bank and finding a support network. There are many different types of sperm banks, says Crawford, and the most important thing is to choose one that is approved by the FDA. Other considerations include: Is the donor willing to be identified in the future  this may be important to a future child  and are there limitations to the number of families a single donor can contribute to?

When using donor sperm its important to seek help beyond a partner. Emotional support for fertility treatment can be achieved through multiple modalities, including support groups and counseling, says Katler. Space also needs to be made to process feelings around not sharing the same genetics as the child. It can be hard for either partner to feel not genetically connected to their offspring, and working through these potential feelings with a therapist can be very helpful, says Crawford.
Meta has shared details about a massive network of fake accounts that attempted to spread pro-China propaganda on its platform. The company said the takedowns were linked to individuals associated with Chinese law enforcement who operated similar fake accounts on dozens of other platforms.

While the company regularly shares updates on its takedowns of fake accounts engaged in widespread manipulation, Metas security security researchers said the latest effort was particularly notable for the size and scope of the operation. In all, Meta took down 7,704 Facebook accounts, 954 Pages, 15 Groups and 15 Instagram accounts, making it one of the largest networks of fake accounts the company has ever uncovered.

During a call with reporters, Ben Nimmo, Metas global threat intelligence lead, described the effort as the most prolific covert influence operation that we know of in the world today. He noted that the group behind the accounts were also active on X, Reddit, YouTube, TikTok, Pinterest and dozens of other social platforms.

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According to Meta, the fake accounts tried to spread pro-China messages, including positive commentary about China and its province Xinjiang and criticisms of the United States, Western foreign policies, and critics of the Chinese government including journalists and researchers. The company attributed the accounts to law enforcement figures within China, but didnt name a specific agency or organization. Meta did confirm it found evidence linking the fake accounts to a previously known pro-China influence operation that first surfaced in 2019, which security researchers dubbed "Spamouflage."

Despite the size of the effort, Meta said the people behind the fake accounts werent particularly skilled or successful in their efforts to go viral. Spamouflage consistently struggled to reach beyond its own (fake) echo chamber, Meta wrote in its quarterly security report. Many comments on Spamouflage posts that we have observed came from other Spamoflauge accounts trying to make it look like they were more popular than they were.

Still, Nimmo said the entities behind Spamouflage were unlikely to give up. This operation is large, prolific and persistent, he said. We expect it to keep on trying.
Legislators, staff and visitors rejoice. Scaffolding at the Iowa Capitol is scheduled to come down in November as construction finally wraps up.

Work began earlier this year to restore the four smaller domes surrounding the golden dome that crowns the building. Neumann Brothers Inc., a Des Moines general contractor, also repaired gutters and downspouts, stripped and repainted the building's windows and restored all four skylights.

Inside the domes, Neumann replaced 40,000 bricks. The detailing on the exterior and the finials  the decorative point atop the domes  were regilded with 23.7-karat gold leaf.

Scaffolding up to 175 feet high provides workers acess to the Iowa Capitol's soaring windows.

On circa-1886 building, work is continual

The work is a continuation of several stages of construction being done to bring areas of the structure, completed 137 years ago, up to date on repairs. A $10 million repair project on the Capitol's main dome was completed in 2018.

It's work that will never really end, even if the scale varies. For example, the windows being spruced up in the current project were replaced in the 1980s and '90s, said Mark Willemssen, the Iowa Legislature facilities manager.

More: Our Des Moines: Iowa Capitol tour gives even the most familiar visitors new insights

A crane used int the Iowa Capitol project is 240 feet tall.

A lot of people ask me, 'Are you ever going to be done with restoration?'" Willemssen said. Actually, we are done with the restoration. Were more into the maintenance phase.

It also can be hazardous. To get to the tallest windows, Neumann built scaffolding that reached as high as 175 feet. Project Superintendent Richard Firmstone said scrambling up and down was a bit like "playing Donkey Kong."

The company brought in a 240-foot-tall crane to access the highest points of the Capitol.

Preferred paint in short supply

The project ran into some supply-chain problems, albeit small ones. Sherwin Williams ran out of the paint Neumann was using for the windows. It switched products only to switch back because of issues with how the new paint was drying.

Story continues

"And then for the sand finish, nobody had it," Firmstone added. "We started calling other contractors in town and eventually we found pallets of it."

Inside the Iowa Capitol's four smaller domes, contractor Neumann Brothers did extenive repairs to mitigate water damage.

The Des Moines Register toured the Capitol maintenance project with the Downtown Chamber of Commerces Development Insight Group, or DIG. It formed in 2015 to host events, share information and promote discussions about developments taking place downtown.

The intricacy and effort in what it takes, bringing in the cranes and scaffolding, even just looking at the windows, you realize you're blind to that, said Susan Judkins, a DIG committee member and client development director for RDG Planning & Design. Each window was a project in and of itself.

Addison Lathers covers growth and development for the Des Moines metro. Reach her at ALathers@registermedia.com and follow her on Twitter at @addisonlathers.

This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: Latest phase of Iowa Capitol repair work nears completion
This article originally appeared on Backpacker

One hiker is dead and another had to call for rescue after rainstorms caused flash flooding in two southern Utah canyons late last week.

On Saturday, the National Park Service said that search and rescue personnel had recovered the body of Jeanne Roblez Howell of Sedona, Arizona, in Bryce Canyon National Park. The park, with assistance from the Garfield County Sheriff's Office's search and rescue team and the Utah Department of Public Safety, initiated a search for the 64-year-old Howell after receiving a report that she was overdue from a hike on the park's popular 8-mile-long Fairyland Loop. At 1:30 a.m. on August 26, searchers found Howell's body in Campbell Canyon, approximately 1 mile east of the trail.

While the NPS didn't specify Howell's cause of death, the press release noted that a storm had deposited "heavy rain" on the northern side of the park, and that it had received reports of flash flooding along the Fairyland Loop.

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Two days before, on Thursday night, search and rescue personnel responded to another incident after receiving an iPhone SOS alert from Grand County's Mary Jane Canyon, located northeast of Moab. In a Facebook post, Grand County Sheriffs Search and Rescue team said it sent personnel up the canyon on foot, and shortly thereafter a helicopter from Classic Air Medical headed to the coordinates contained in the emergency message. Finding no one, the helicopter continued down the canyon and spotted the hiker, an unnamed 38-year-old woman, about 2 miles downstream with her dog.

When search and rescue personnel reached the hiker, they found her and her dog unharmed but barefoot and "covered in mud from head to toe." The rescued hiker said she had heard a flash flood coming and had attempted to climb to higher ground. While she reached a sand bank above the river, the floodwaters eroded the sand beneath her feet and swept her and her pet 150 to 200 feet downcanyon, tearing off and carrying away her shoes in the process. When she received an error message on her phone, she believed her SOS hadn't gone through, and began hiking barefoot back towards the trailhead. A member of the SAR that rescued the hiker team lent her his shoes for the rest of the hike out.

Parts of southern Utah have experienced heavy precipitation on a few occasions over the past two weeks. Following Tropical Storm Hilary's landfall in southern California on August 20, Zion, Bryce Canyon, and Capitol Reef national parks all advised visitors of higher-than-usual risks of flash flooding due to "monsoonal" rainfall.

For exclusive access to all of our fitness, gear, adventure, and travel stories, plus discounts on trips, events, and gear, sign up for Outside+ today.
We see a 3D bust of a pale man with strawberry blond hair. The bust is in a museum.

Scientists have reconstructed the face of "Bonnie Prince Charlie"  the disinherited pretender to the thrones of England, Scotland and Ireland who in 1745 led an ill-fated rebellion of Scots and other supporters against the united British crown.

Stories of the prince, whose real name was Charles Edward Stuart, have become legendary, especially in Scotland, and he's a major character in the time-traveling TV series "Outlander ."

Now, a three-dimensional model of how the prince looked during the rebellion has been unveiled at the University of Dundee in Scotland. It's based on the work of Barbora Vesela , a master's student at the university's Centre for Anatomy and Human Identification, who analyzed the prince's facial structure from his death masks.

The latest depiction may be slightly at odds with depictions of the "bonnie" prince  a Scottish appellation meaning "handsome"  who looked dashing and regal in contemporary portraits .

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Those portrayals may have been intentionally flattering; in contrast, the intent of the reconstruction was to show Bonnie Prince Charlie "as a person, stripping off the layers of royalty and leaving him plain, showing him as a human being," Vesela told Live Science.

However, it's curious that the new reconstruction doesn't look much like those portraits, which tended to resemble one another, historians told Live Science.

Related: 35 amazing facial reconstructions, from Stone Age shamans to King Tut

The reconstruction is intended to show Bonnie Prince Charlie as he looked at the time of the Jacobite Uprising in 1745, when he was about 25 years old.

Jacobite uprising

Charles Edward Stuart was the grandson of England's James II (Scotland's James VII), who had been deposed by English politicians in the "Glorious Revolution" of 1688 because he was a Catholic who believed he ruled by divine right.

James was replaced with his Protestant son-in-law and daughter, the "co-regents" William III and Mary II, on the condition that they allowed the English Parliament to control laws and taxation. Scotland soon made a similar deal.

The researchers analyzed death masks made of the prince soon after his death in 1788, then applied anti-aging software to estimate his appearance more than 40 years earlier.

James died in France in 1701, leaving his son James Francis Edward Stuart  known as the "Old Pretender"  to continue the family line. The Old Pretender's son Charles Edward Stuart  the "Young Pretender"  landed in Scotland in July 1745 to reclaim the thrones of England, Scotland and Ireland from the successors of William and Mary.

Bonnie Prince Charlie  whose real name was Charles Edward Stuart  led the Jacobite Uprising in 1745 in the hopes of regaining the thrones of England, Scotland and Ireland for his family.

The 1745 rebellion  known as the Jacobite uprising, from the Latinized name of the deposed king  was initially successful, and Bonnie Prince Charlie led his army south into England. But he retreated from advancing English armies in January 1745, and on April 16, 1746, the Jacobites were defeated at the Battle of Culloden near Inverness.

Bonnie Prince Charlie escaped and began a fugitive journey around Scotland's northwest; at one point he disguised himself as a serving maid to avoid capture. His flight inspired the " The Skye Boat Song ," a version of which features in "Outlander." The prince then returned to France, and then Italy, and died in Rome in 1788 at age 67.

The Jacobite Uprising had great support in the west of Scotland, and stories of Bonnie Prince Charlie are now legendary there.

Bonnie prince

Several contemporary portraits of Charles Edward Stuart exist, including this one painted at about the time of the Jacobite Uprising. It hung in a gloomy corridor of a Scottish mansion for 250 years until it was rediscovered in 2014.

The new depiction of Bonnie Prince Charlie is based on precise measurements of two masks produced from a cast of his face made soon after he died  a common practice at the time. The researchers used forensic techniques to determine how he looked when he died and applied "anti-aging" software to estimate his appearance during the uprising, more than 40 years before his death.

This 19th century painting of Bonnie Prince Charlie now hangs in the Palace of Hollyroodhouse in Edinburgh, the official residence of the British monarch in Scotland.

Vesela said portraits of Bonnie Prince Charlie show him dressed in expensive clothes and formally posed. But "they only show one facet of who he was," she said, adding that he was also someone who enjoyed "horse riding, boating, music, being outdoors, and interacting with his followers and men who were not aristocrats."

Some historians who weren't involved in the reconstruction are cautious about the new portrayal.

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Murray Pittock , a professor at the University of Glasgow who has extensively studied Jacobite history and written several books about it, said the forensic techniques the researchers used would provide vital information to investigators of a crime. In the case of Bonnie Prince Charlie, however, several portraits show what he possibly looked like  "and they all look more like each other than they look like the reconstruction," he told Live Science.

Historian Arran Johnston, who recently completed the book " The Battles of Bonnie Prince Charlie " (2023, Pen and Sword), said the reconstruction showed how difficult it is to "capture the essence of a living person."

"What really mattered about Charles Edward Stuart is his spirit, his natural capacity to draw people to him and make them willing to risk it all," he told Live Science.
Dr. Edward Barksdale needed answers and he turned to Clevelands SWAT team, the county juvenile detention center and the local police to get them.

Barksdale, a pediatric trauma surgeon and the surgeon-in-chief at UH Rainbow Babies and Childrens Hospital/University Hospitals, wanted to know exactly what it was that was sending the same kids to his operating room  shot not just once but on more than one occasion. One boy, only 7 years old, had been shot three separate times and needed three separate operations, he said.

In fact, in one two-year period, Barksdale said, he operated on gunshot wounds in 70 kids, and 30% came back to the hospital because theyd been shot again. Most were Black boys ages 6 to 16.

Of that group, he said, another 30% would be back at the hospital in that same two-year period needing help after a suicide attempt or a major depressive episode.

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Most people see gun violence as a public safety issue. I see it as a public health issue that is basically driven by the sense of hopelessness, Barksdale told CNN. Primarily, these are young men who feel that there is no future.

Recurring gun injuries afflict communities far beyond Cleveland. New research, published Monday in the Annals of Internal Medicine, explored trends in St. Louis and found young Black men to be particularly at risk.

Barksdale decided that he could no longer just operate on these children again and again; he had to do something to give them hope. So in 2019, he helped create the Antifragility Initiative Program, one of several multidisciplinary hospital-based violence intervention programs across the US. It follows up with kids and their families to provide mental health, education and other services after hospital care to try to keep them from becoming victims of violence or trauma again.

The point is, if you can build community around people and help people see a different purpose, then they dont put themselves in harms way, because they see a different future for themselves, Barksdale said.

Americas gun epidemic claimed more than 48,000 lives in 2022, federal data shows, marking one of the deadliest years on record. And gun violence has become the leading cause of death among children and teens in the United States. But most gun injuries are not fatal, leaving thousands of victims to live with the resulting trauma.

When you look only at the mortality data, youre really getting just a microcosm of the full scope of the burden of disease, said Dr. Kristen Mueller, an associate professor of emergency medicine at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis.

Along with the physical and emotional effects, survivors of firearm injury carry a distressingly high risk of being shot again, Mueller and others wrote in the new study.

About 1 of every 14 gunshot victims will be harmed by a firearm again within a year, according to the new research. Within five years, that risk rises to about 1 in 8, and it jumps to about 1 in 6 after eight years.

That is pretty comparable to your risk of a second heart attack or a second stroke, said Mueller, the lead author of the new study. But these kids are young. Theyre teenagers or in their early 20s, and theyre having two or more life-threatening events in a year or five years or eight years. Its really concerning.

The findings are based on patient records from four Level I trauma hospitals in the St. Louis area that participated in a regional hospital-based violence intervention program.

The hospitals had medical records for about 9,600 people who were treated for a firearm injury from 2010 through 2019. About 1,200 were seen for a new firearm injury over the course of that decade, including 149 who died from a subsequent gunshot.

Victims of firearm injury were most likely to be young Black men  and the disparities were even more glaring among those who had a repeat injury.

About 96% of patients with a repeat firearm injury were Black, compared with 87% of all patients with an initial firearm injury, the new study found. Patients with a repeat firearm injury also tended to be younger, with an average age of 25, compared with an average age of 29 for firearm injuries in general. More than 90% of patients with a repeat gun injury were male.

When you talk to people who have been shot, they talk about the fear, that complete lost sense of safety, said Dr. Kathleen ONeill, a surgeon at Yale-New Haven Hospital. She was not involved in the new study but has published other research on the topic, including extensive interviews with gun violence survivors.

We discharge them from the hospital really half-healed, because we dont address all of the social and emotional aspects of having been shot. Were sending them back to a community that they dont perceive as safe.

That fear may lead people to engage in more risky behavior themselves, she said. Victims might start carrying their own firearm and become more quick to solve a conflict with a gun.

In the new study, researchers found that people living in socially disadvantaged neighborhoods were more likely to receive a firearm injury and were at increased risk for a repeat injury. But they also found that those place-based vulnerabilities were closely tied to structural racism.

Patients in this study frequently lived in communities marked by decades of disinvestment, the researchers wrote. Such communities in St. Louis and elsewhere that experience concentrated disadvantages that include high poverty, unemployment, and income inequality also experience higher rates of firearm violence. Prioritizing community (re)investment approaches represents an important set of strategies to reduce community violence and promote public health and safety.

Despite growing attention on gun violence in the US, there is no comprehensive national data on nonfatal firearm injuries. The new research from St. Louis is the latest addition to a collection of smaller cohort studies that attempt to capture the broader toll that gun violence can have.

Earlier research found that there are at least two survivors for every death from gun violence. But the new study suggests that the ratio is much higher: closer to 7-to-1.

Across the disparate studies, however, there is a very reproducible phenomenon, ONeill said: Those who are most at risk of interpersonal gun violence  and recurrent gun injury  have some kind of social connection to people who also engage in risky behaviors.

But thats a really hidden population, she said. Its really hard to quantify it, and we really are handicapped in this entire epidemic, because weve only recently been given real funding to study it.

Experts agree that its critical to continue to gain insights into those who are at risk of recurrent gun violence in order to build intervention programs that are most impactful  and to scale up appropriately.

Firearm injuries are just like every other disease that we take care of in hospitals. They can be identified, tracked, treated and ultimately prevented, Mueller said. And just like chronic diseases like hypertension or diabetes, you need to be doing followup after you diagnose it.

Barksdales intervention program in Cleveland is one example of hope. Since its inception, the program has cared for 421 children who had been shot or had come to the hospital for some other trauma-related injury. Less than 10 have been shot again.

A key to the success of the program, Barksdale believes, is that workers from the hospital reach out within 48 hours of the childrens discharge.

Its critical that we call within 48 hours, because its in that time when the toughest of [kids] is listening to his mother or is finally seeing the light, and theyre open for us to intervene and present options that will keep them from dying or going to prison, he said.

Within a month, someone from the hospital goes to the childs home to get a sense of their environment and what they may need. They offer trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy, and they will address other issues that can leave children vulnerable, such as housing, clothing, food, tutoring and basic medical care.

They also try to get a sense of the childs identity.

We want to understand if they have a sense of purpose, any goals or direction, and we want to help restore that if it is missing, Barksdale said.

Hospital-based violence intervention programs restore a persons sense of identity, help their self-esteem and give them a sense of agency, he said.

We want to move them from hurt to heal to hope to whole, Barksdale said.

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Sofia Resing. Victor Boyko/amfAR/Getty Images

Sofia Resing is sharing some truly enviable Instagram content of her summer adventures in Portugal. The Brazilian model shared a carousel of photos on Aug. 22, showing off not only the beautiful natural landscape surrounding her, but her toned and tanned figure as well.

Resing wore a tangerine string bikini as she was photographed walking along the sand with one hand in her wet hair in the first snap. She stared into the camera lens in the second capture, and the only accessory to accompany her beachside look was a golden pendant necklace. Another pic showed off the thong backside of her swim bottoms.

Resing tagged pal Pamela Tamires de Souza Lima in a few slides and shared her location as the coastal city of Albufeira, Portugal. Algarve insane rock formations , she explained further in her caption.

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Love the suit , 2023 SI Swimsuit cover girl Brooks Nader applauded in the comments section.

So stunning sis , Swim Search finalist Sharina Gutierrez added.

Wow so beautiful , Danielle Knudson cheered.

Omg [youre] a dream, Manuela Tatjana Frey gushed.

A few days later, Resing followed up with another IG post in Portugal. She shared a photo of a clear blue sky, palm trees and a crowded beach with the caption, Last days of EuroSummer .

While Resing is soaking up the end of the summer season in Portugal, we recall her trip to Zanzibar for her 2016 SI Swimsuit Issue feature with photographer Ruven Afanador.

Make sure to follow SI Swimsuit on YouTube!
Travelers hoping to snag a pass must register for the promotion and purchase a flight (either a round-trip flight or two one-ways) by 11:59 p.m. CT on Wednesday.

Southwest Airlines is making it easier to score its coveted Companion Pass thanks to a limited time giveaway with the purchase of just one round-trip flight.

Travelers hoping to snag a pass, which allows holders to designate one companion to fly with them practically for free, must register for the promotion online and purchase a Southwest flight (either a round-trip flight or two one-ways) by 11:59 p.m. CT on Aug. 30 for travel by Sept. 30, the airline shared with Travel + Leisure. Travelers can then designate a companion to fly with them from Jan. 8, 2024, through March 8.

Ashlee Duncan/Courtesy of Southwest Airlines

"The Companion Pass is one of the most coveted airline perks in the industry, rewarding Customers for being part of our Rapid Rewards loyalty program, Jonathan Clarkson, the vice president of marketing at Southwest Airlines, said in a statement provided to T+L. "As the airline with Heart, we want our Customers to feel appreciated for flying with Southwest, and what better way to do that than to offer the opportunity to travel and share experiences with a Companion.

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To qualify for the pass, customers must be members of Southwests Rapid Rewards program and include their Rapid Rewards number during booking.

Once a traveler chooses their companion, they can change that person up to three times during the promotional period. Companions mostly fly for free, but they must still pay taxes and fees, which start at $5.60 each way.

Southwest typically offers its companion pass to customers who either fly 100 qualifying one-way flights or earn 135,000 qualifying points in a calendar year. Travelers can earn points through everything from using a qualifying credit card to staying at partner hotels, and more.

Earlier this month, Southwest said it would move to allow all passengers to fly same-day standby for free, bringing the carrier in line with other major airlines in the United States.

While Southwest is unique in offering a companion pass allowing travelers to bring a guest for free, several airlines have introduced unlimited flight passes in recent years. That includes Frontier Airlines, which offers both yearly and seasonal passes; and Alaska Airlines, which allows travelers to book six, 12, or 24 round-trip flights per year at a fixed monthly rate.

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Read the original article on Travel & Leisure.
State fair butter cows arent made entirely out of butter  and people are udderly shocked

If you didnt know that the butter cows unveiled at the start of the Iowa and Illinois state fairs werent made entirely out of butter, you are not alone  far from it, in fact.

Many fans originally thought the sculptures were made 100% of butter until seeing a behind-the-scenes picture posted to X (formerly Twitter) by @217problems. The photo, which has 15 million views, shows the Illinois State Fair Butter Cow shaven down to reveal the framework under the butter. (The 2023 state fairs in both Illinois and Iowa concluded on Aug. 20.)

RIP the 2023 butter cow  pic.twitter.com/gCt7lFL0Xy  217Problems (@217Problems) August 21, 2023

I feel deceived. It should have been a solid block of butter. If we cannot believe in butter cows, what can we believe in, one person tweeted.

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"???? wait????? its not fully butter????? someone else asked.

"ok so whos joining the false advertising class action lawsuit because," wrote another.

Waaaah!!! Was just there last week, I demand a refund, tweeted someone else.

Seeing the butter cow like this makes my stomach churn, joked another X user.

The Butter Cow, which is commissioned by the Midwest Dairy Association, dates back to the 1920s and is a tradition many guests  many of whom, apparently, didnt realize it wasnt entirely made of butter  look forward to every year.

The Illinois State Fair website does not disclose all the materials used in its Butter Cow sculpture.

500 pounds of unsalted butter are used to sculpt the life size figure by hand, the website reads. The process takes about five days. Which means, presumably, since the whole sculpture weighs 800 pounds, the framework underneath the butter weighs about 300 pounds.

TODAY.com reached out to the Illinois State Fair for additional comment.

Butter Cow at the Iowa State Fair on August 11, 2023 in Des Moines, IA. (Al Drago / Getty Images)

On the other hand, the Iowa State Fairs website discloses the materials used to make the sculpture.

The Butter Cow starts with a wood, metal, wire and steel mesh frame and about 600 lbs. of low moisture, pure cream Iowa butter, the website reads. Once inside the 40-degree cooler, layers of butter are applied until a life-size butter cow emerges  measuring about 5-1/2-ft high and 8-ft long. Each year, much of the butter is recycled and can be reused for up to 10 years.

TODAY.com also reached out to the Iowa State Fair for additional comment.

I cant believe Im saying this, but I feel weirdly betrayed that the Iowa State Fair butter cow turns out to be a mesh sculpture covered in slabs of butter instead of a cow entirely made of butter, one person tweeted in response to the news.

my entire life i thought the iowa state fair butter cow was solid butter , wrote another.

This article was originally published on TODAY.com
For tequila enthusiasts, the last few years have brought an unending cycle of sticker shock with every trip to the liquor store. And the steady rise of two to three dollars every couple of months has been hitting all brands of tequila, high-end and low.

An obvious reaction is to blame inflation. Or maybe it's something sinister: Greedy agave bastards are taking advantage of the recent popularity of tequila and using inflation as an excuse.

Related: The Best Sipping Tequilas of 2023 to Enjoy Neat

It's true that more than inflation is behind the price hikes across the tequila landscape. Though it's fun to get mad and shake your fist at Big Liquor, the shockingly high prices of tequila are mainly driven by four frustratingly logical reasons.

1. The Tequila Boom

Last year, tequila overtook American whiskey to become the second most valuable spirit category in the U.S., and its expected to overtake vodka in terms of dollar value within the next two years, according to the alcohol market analysis firm IWSR . And things may only be getting started.

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Back in 2016, tequila commanded a 1.8 percent volume share of the global spirits market, by 2021 it was up to 2.5 percent. Overall, tequila rose by more than 30 percent between 2015 and 2020, according to IWSR data.

Courtesy Image

The category, by volume, is expected to grow at seven percent globally from 2021 through 2026, which is significantly faster than global spirits volumes, which is set to grow at two percent over the same period. And that growth rate is even higher in the U.S.tequilas No. 1 marketwhere the 202126 volume growth for tequila is expected to be at a nine percent.

While the agave boom is well underway in the U.S., its only getting started in other parts of the world. Export volumes to Spain jumped by 90 percent last year, to France by 73 percent, Britain by 68 percent, and Germany by 60 percent, according to Mexico's Tequila Regulatory Council, compared to global growth of 23 percent.

In less numerically littered terms, tequila is growing fast with no look of slowing down in the near future.

2. Agave Shortages

The skyrocketing demand for tequila is causing agave shortages. It takes about seven years to grow a Blue Weber agave to the point its ready to harvest for tequila. Mature agave (7-plus years) allows makers to get a higher yield because mature agaves contain more sugar that can be converted into alcohol, which can increase yields by around 30 percent. However, agaves aged 5 and 6 years are all that most distilleries currently have access to.

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This, among other factors, has caused agave prices to remain close to record levels for around three years, according to Jose Luis Hermoso, IWSRs research director. He expects, prices will only start moderating when there are signs that tequila is cooling down in the key U.S. market. So no time in the near future.

Related: 50 Best Whiskeys in the World 2023

3. Copper and Glass Costs

Its not just agave prices that are raising the price of tequila. Higher production costs that include everything from shipping prices to the cost of glass bottles and copperessential for making artisanal pot stillsare boosting prices as well.

The German Federal Statistical Office (Destatis) reported that the producer prices of glass and glass products were up 26.9 percent in January 2023 year on year, while price increases were particularly large for glass bottles, which saw non-colored glass rise 40.2 percent year on year, while prices of bottles of colored glass rose 37 percent year on year.

The price of copper, meanwhile, has doubled since 2016, and is only expected to go up in the coming years. Currently the third most-used metal in the world, analysts believe that copper will be crucial as the world moves away from fossil fuels to greener sources of energy.

Labor shortages are also a cause of concern within the tequila industry. A growth in construction in part due to the tequila boom in Jalisco has been one of the causes of a shortage of distillery workers.

4. The Premiumization Of Tequila

When it comes to looking inside the tequila category, premium tequilas are proliferating at the fastest rate, despite the cost of agave. Over the years, tequila has evolved from being a low-price shot to a more premium option used in cocktails and high-end sipping, says Hermoso. The category has grown alongside consumer awareness to offer experimentation across blanco, reposado, anejo, and cristalino.

According to Liz Paquette, Drizlys head of consumer insights, the average unit price of tequila sold on Drizly over the past five years has grown 29 percent. During the same period, mezcal is up four percent and whiskey is up five percent. The company also notes that 27 percent of all tequilas sold on Drizly carry a price tag of $100 and up, and that every tequila subcategory has seen an increase in average unit price on Drizly, but some categories have made gains faster than others. The silver/blanco subcategory, for example, has seen less of a price increase (22 percent over five years, sitting at $39.79 in 2022) than reposado (57 percent, sitting at $60.88 in 2022) or anejo (25 percent, sitting at $101.39 in 2022).

As recently as 2016, standard tequila products accounted for more than half of global tequila volumes, and almost half of global valuecompared to super-premium-and-aboves 13 percent volume and 33 percent value shares. By 2026, however, super-premium-plus products are expected to own 55 percent of tequilas global value, and to account for almost 40 percent of category volumes.

Within the agave category we continue to see consumers trading up, choosing more premium-and-above spirits on the whole, and thus furthering growth and demand within the category, says Julka Villa, global head of marketing at Campari Group.

Current IWSR analysis of the tequila category shows that the premium tequila segment is set to drive the category forward, especially in the U.S. market, where it is expected to add more than $15 billion in additional value to the overall category by 2026. Outside the U.S., growth is expected as well though maybe not at the same rate.

Related: 20 Cocktail Recipes Every Man Should Know How to Make

Is a Tequila Shortage Coming Up?

Despite the additional agave planted over the last few years, premiumization and the rising popularity of aged tequila is leaving some concerned about a possible tequila shortage.

Debra Crew, CEO of Diageoone of the worlds largest drinks companies and owner of Don Julio and Casamigosrecently told Yahoo! Finance: On the aged kind of variants, the anejos, the reposadosthings for us like 1942 Don Juliowe have faced some constraints on it just simply because the demand's so high It is based on agave and really high-quality agave, so for us, it does take some time in the ground. And so we have had capped volumes. So, you know, if you see that 1942 out there, go and grab it.

On the smaller, boutique brand end, Antonio Salles, master distiller at El Tequileno says that there's always a chance that demand is greater than supply, especially with certain tequila expressions. I think [it] depends on your go-to brand. The tequila category has over 1,800 different brands, but only 184 registered tequila distilleries, and merely a portion of those are actively producing.

Though, as the steady march of higher prices has shown, there is certainly a constraint on supply due to increased demand and material availability being tightened, it's not quite at the point where you need to freak out and storm the liquor store for your favorite agave tipple quite yet. Yet...but there are some that think we might be nearing the peak of tequila frenzy.

When Will Prices Go Back Down?

No one is sure when or if tequila prices will head back down, but some remain positive. Fernando Felix, head of the U.S. and Canadian operations at Proximo Spirits, the subsidiary of Mexican distiller Becle that manages Jose Cuervo distribution, expects the price of agave to go down in about two years, when the agave planted a few years back becomes ready to harvest and supply begins to outpace demand.

In the meantime, the pressures on tequila pricing raise the prospect of category-adjacent products emerging, including mezcal and other agave spirits from countries outside Mexico such as Australia and South Africa. It's worth noting that the Southwestern United States and Northern Mexico also offer a intriguing alternative to tequila called sotol, which is made from an agave-like plant. The also-ancient spirit may just be what tequila lovers need in this time as it imparts a similar flavor and kick, and is generally cheaper (though a bit tougher to find) than tequila or mezcal.

Salud!
I always waited until the shower was scorching hot before stepping in. Frigid water enveloping my body? Why would anyone do that? Turns out, a spate of research indicates repeated cold water exposure can be a vital tool in a quest for a better health and improved lifespan.

The notion that constant, comfortable temperatures arent ideal for humans was broached, for me, during the second episode of Chris Hemsworths National Geographic series Limitless, a show that sees the Thor star attempting various health hacks to improve his longevity. The second episode, centered around the theme of shock, sees the Aussie actor explaining that extreme cold and heat can kickstart the bodys natural defense systems, compelling upgrades.

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Things like cold plungesand showerscould help fight inflammaging, manage pain, and boost my immune system. It can trigger repairs inside my cells, and even improve my mental wellbeing, Hemsworth says.

And thats not just a Hollywood hunk spewing junk science; plenty of peer-reviewed clinical studies and a slew of longevity doctors back those claims. So I gave cold showers a shot for more than six months. Heres how I did it, and the incredible host of benefits I realized.

How to Take a Cold Shower

The methodology is simple: Start with a regular temperature shower, then flip the handle to the coldest you can bear for the last 30 seconds. A thermometer records my coldest shower water as being around 55 degrees, frigid enough to tingle then numb the top of my headas well as my wedding vegetables.

Which is precisely what you want. If youre not uncomfortable, the water isnt cold enough and youre doing it wrong. Theres an initial shock that happens; your breath quickens, your pulse races, and you feel an internal wave of energy overtaking your body. Youre immediately awakeif showering is a morning habitand that central buzz doesnt subside for a good 20 minutes afterward.

The first week of cold showers was positively brutal but also quite satisfying. Gamify it by counting the seconds, attempting a lengthier personal record, and youll find that your cold-water immersion time ticks up significantly, right away.

How Long Should a Cold Shower Last?

After a few weeks, I found myself able to get up to a minute; after two months, three minutes was possibleand dare I say enjoyable. And thats about the amount of time youll need to see any benefits, per Dr. Neil Paulvin, a New York-based board-certified longevity and regenerative medicine doctor.

While there arent as many studies on showers compared to cold plunges and immersion, you need at least 11 minutes a week to get the benefits, Paulvin says. You should take a cold shower for at least two to three minutes, anywhere between 50 and 60 degrees, though many people like to go below that temperature.

After three months, I found myself craving the buzzing sensation so I started bookending my showers with cold water, stepping into the initially icy stream while waiting for the hot water to creep in, then finishing with a three-minute cold blast. I love this method even more. Now, after six months, I dont even use hot water. (Unless its after a workout. More on that towards the end of this piece.)

What Happens to the Body During a Cold Shower?

Whats happening to your body during cold water exposure is called hormesis, a term for when a triggering substance or action leads to stimulating, positive effects. We know increased hormesis does have increased benefits, Paulvin explains. As you add a stressor, like cold temperature, it forces the body to reset, recycle, and cleanse itself.

When your cells get cold, they work slower, adds Dr. Rahi Sarbaziha, a Los Angeles based-double board-certified anti-aging and integrative aesthetics doctor. Ordinarily, your cells are flying around and cant regenerate while theyre doing other duties. That slow down helps your body get extra time to regenerate and heal.

Cold showers can increase dopamine, your happy chemical; calm your nervous system; and can help you sleep better, Paulvin says.

Cold Shower Benefits

Better Skin

If you have itchy skin or conditions that result in irritated skin, cold water helps to close your pores, which can prevent bacteria and other irritants from entering, and strips less of your natural sebum oils away. It also reduces your inflammation, which decreases redness. Your skin gets more of a glow, too, due to better circulation. As someone who suffers seborrheic dermatitis, I have noticed a reduction in those flare ups. And while Ive never been one to describe my skin as glowing, I do think it seems a bit brighter and firmer.

Stress Resilience

If you can withstand three minutes of ice water pummeling your body, you feel better equipped to handle any stressors that come later in the day. Part of this is mental. Youre building a better, more adaptable mindset by forcing yourself into a stressful situation and proving you can overcome it with ease and aplomb.

Youll notice this boost in different ways. Your attitude towards, say, a horrendously contentious work meeting, changes because listening to an inept boss drone on is no longer the most challenging portion of your day. Or things that were previously fear-inducing are more surmountable. I have always detested needles and blood work at the doctor; after six months of cold showers, fretting over a tiny prick is now laughable.

Theres also a chemical reaction happening to bolster the stress resilience. As your nervous system resets from the cold showers, your fight-or-flight system is calming down, Paulvin says. Youll definitely feel the effects.

Reduced Inflammation and Inflammaging

Inflammation is when a portion of your body has a negative reaction to injury or infection. Inflammaging is when your bodys immune system surges to fight an inflammation, creating more cells than it may need. Those extra cells can cause more harm than good, and they can go after tissue and organs in a way that causes more breakdown. Inflammaging propagates a number of cardiovascular issues, like heart disease.

With cold showers, youre reducing both inflammation and inflammaging. Those extra immune cellssometimes called zombie cellsget cleaned out during the reset cycle, Paulvin explains.

After six months of cold showering, I have no way of knowing whether Im slaughtering an army of zombie cells but, regarding inflammation, I can tell you that my usual aches and pains of my 42-year-old body have abated in an appreciable way. My lower back pain has diminished, my chronically sore shoulder (a hangover from a decade-long injury) also has mellowed.

Feeling Sick Less Often

Cold water, interestingly, helps you fend off actual colds. Theres a widely publicized study that took 3,000 volunteers from the Netherlands and asked them to spend 30 days finishing regular showers with cold water, for either 30-, 60-, or 90-seconds. Work attendance of those participants was then analyzed and the results were that the folks who showered in cold water were absent 29 percent fewer days, leading to the conclusion that cold showers translate to fewer sick days. (That number lept to 54 percent fewer sick days for those who regularly exercised.)

Per the studys author, Dr. Geert A. Buijze, you dont actually get sick less: Participants who took the cold showers actually reported feeling ill just as many days, on average, as the people who showered normally. But either their symptoms were less severe or they felt more energetic, so they were better able to push through the sickness and function anyway.

Anecdotally, I found this to be 100 percent true. Every few months, I usually get sidelined with a sinus infection that sees me recuperating in bed for at least a day, with the help of antibiotics. Since cold showering, Ive not needed bed rest nor pharmaceuticals. Buijze is on the money, though: I still get a tinge of sickness here and there, but its far less encumbering than before and I am able to power through.

It Reduces PainBut Also May Retrain Your Brains Perception of Pain

We already covered how cold water can reduce inflammation, and inflammation is one way were subjected to feeling pain. So reducing the various hotspots of inflammation in the body will reduce our overall pain.

But theres also research that indicates that cold water can help block some of our neuroreceptors from feeling pain and, in some cases, rewire how our brain perceives pain. One study noted that cold showering might have [an] antipsychotic effect similar to that of electroconvulsive therapy because it could work as mild electroshock applied to [the] sensory cortex. Additionally, cold showers are examples of stress-induced analgesia and would also be expected to crowd out or suppress psychosis-related neurotransmission within the mesolimbic system. Translated, this means that your body gets so overwhelmed with feeling cold that it just tunes out the pain. The belief is that, with repeated occurrences, your bodys ignorance of pain can become increasingly permanent, though more research is needed.

Other Cold-Shower Considerations

Benefits Are Cumulative, So Consistency Is Key

The more you cold shower, the better it works, says Sarbazhia. If you have an injury, youll see some benefits after a few showers, but if you keep up the routine, those benefits multiply.

Add in Heat Exposure for Even More Benefits

While cold showers alone are beneficial, adding in heat exposure, like a sauna, and all those advantages are amplified, says Paulvin. The switch between extreme heat and extreme coldfor example, sauning for 20 minutes before an immediate cold plunge or showeris even better. (More hormesis, effectively.) Recurring 20-minute sauna sessions, when heated to at least 170 degrees Fahrenheit, are great for reducing cardiovascular disease and Alzheimers disease, where studies note a 50 percent reduction in cardiovascular issues and a 66 percent reduction in Alzheimers.

Dont Cold Shower After a Workout

If the goal of your workout is hypertrophy, or building muscle, skip the cold water right after your pump session. Cold showers mean your proteins arent working in the same way, and youll decrease your ability to build muscle, says Paulvin.

Are There Any Downsides to Cold Showers?

For relatively healthy individuals, not really. The only harm would be if you have heart or nerve issues, Paulvin says. You may feel that youre getting too cold. And if you have muscle issues, it may increase spasms.

Are Cold Showers as Beneficial as Cold Plunges?

Its hard to say, given that theres a dearth of clinical and peer-reviewed research when it comes to cold showers, compared to cold plunges. While the research catches up, any cold water exposure is beneficial, per experts, though cold plunges may be even more beneficial.

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Its still unclear whether Turkmenistan has the political will to root out forced labor from its own cotton fields, Allison Gill, forced labor program director at the Global Labor Justice-International Labor Rights Forum, told Sourcing Journal Monday.

Gill, whose organization hosts the Cotton Campaign, a multistakeholder initiative that aims to eliminate state-sponsored forced labor in Central Asia, was responding to Radio Free Europe/Radio Libertys recent report that the authoritarian nation was once again mobilizing thousands of teachers, healthcare workers and other civil servants to bring in the cotton harvest.

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In the eastern Lebap Province, the outlet wrote, authorities have ordered state agencies to conscript half of their employees during the weekdays and all of them on the weekends. In some regions, local residents said, army soldiers are also involved in the backbreaking work. Everyone involved is required to harvest between 20 to 25 kilogramsthats 40 to 55 poundsof the fiber each day, even when temperatures soar past 40 degrees Celsius, or 104 degrees Fahrenheit. Those who refuseand cant afford sufficient bribesare threatened with wage cuts or job loss.

Compared with neighboring Uzbekistan, which until recently was guilty of much the same, Turkmenistan has been slow to acknowledge that it has a forced labor problem in the first place, Gill said. This is despite the tremendous appetite from the international community to see change.

To date, 140 brands and retailers, including Adidas, Gap Inc., and Levi Strauss, have signed the Turkmen Cotton Pledge, committing to boycott cotton from the worlds 10th-largest producer of the fiber until its no longer produced using state-imposed forced labor as independently verified by the International Labor Organization, as well as determined by the Cotton Campaign. In the United States, a Withhold Release Order against Turkmen cotton has been active since 2018, though Gill says that brands need to do their due diligence because the fiber can still creep in, if not directly then through third countries such as Pakistan and Turkey.

Due diligence really needs to be stepped up if brands are serious about eliminating forced labor in their supply chain, she added.

Turkmen officials insisted to the United Nations Human Rights Committee earlier this year that the country doesnt have a policy to compel anyone into mandatory labor during the cotton harvestor any other cropbecause cutting-edge technology has rendered the mass utilization of human resources not necessary. But workers in Lebap told Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty that no cotton-picking machines were visible and that they had to harvest everything by hand.

Cotton is the former Soviet republics biggest export after gas and oil. In 2022, the country exported cotton and cotton products valued at nearly $300 million. This year, the government has set a target of 1.25 million tons of the fiber.

Patricia Jurewicz, CEO of Responsible Sourcing Network, which runs the Turkmen Cotton Pledge with the Cotton Campaignshe also co-founded the latter initiativeexpressed her surprise that Turkmenistan was still dragooning its citizens in todays day and age.

After seeing the number of international brands and retailers that banned the use of Uzbek cotton for over a decade due to the same practices, you would think the Turkmen government would end this activity, she told Sourcing Journal. [This is why] brands are telling their suppliers to stay away from Turkmen cotton, otherwise they risk having their products stopped at the U.S. border.

Gill said that Turkmenistan is beginning to engage with the International Labour Organization, which is somewhat encouraging. But its still too early to see how things will shake out. As in Uzbekistan, terminating forced conscription is only the start of a longer, more involved process to create an environment where labor rights can thrive, she said.

There has to be accountability and there have to be systemic changes that go beyond ending mobilization to actually enabling labor rights, Gill added. Because they are still mobilizing and they still publicly deny that they use forced labor, I think we can see that theyre not there yet.

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By Tom Wilson

LONDON (Reuters) -Bitcoin's gains from a U.S. court ruling that bolsters future prospects for retail investor-friendly funds have rescued the original cryptocurrency from a dismal month, offering new optimism over its longer-term outlook.

The Securities and Exchange Commission's denial of Grayscale Investments' proposal was "arbitrary and capricious", a federal court said on Tuesday, handing the crypto asset manager a landmark victory that could pave the way for the first product of its kind.

Top cryptocurrency bitcoin gained more than 7% on the news, setting it on course for its best day since March and cutting some of the heavy losses incurred over the summer.

It was last trading at $27,920.

Bruised by dampened demand for riskier assets caused by surging U.S. Treasury yields, as well as a fall in volatility over quiet summer trading, bitcoin had before the ruling been on course for its worst month since November 2022, when tumult reigned following the demise of the FTX exchange. It is now on track for monthly losses of around 5%.

The win for Grayscale is likely to now factor into the SEC's future decisions for spot bitcoin ETFs filed by several major financial firms this year, including the world's largest asset manager BlackRock, investors said.

Any advent of spot bitcoin ETFs could help the crypto industry tap a glut of previously untapped retail investor cash, in turn bolstering the price of bitcoin.

"The market has been waiting for a catalyst for some time, and it is likely that this ruling will be taken as a significant sign that a BTC spot ETF is not far off," said Noelle Acheson, an economist who has tracked the crypto sector for several years.

Still, bitcoin's prospects remain tied to the performance of wider markets, some investors said.

"Crypto is still considered growth and speculation, and a muddy macro picture will keep a lid on the market," said Anders Kvamme Jensen, founder of brokerage AKJ.

(Reporting by Tom Wilson; Editing by Mike Harrison)
Travelers have been warned that the chaos brought about by a UK air traffic control failure earlier this week will continue for days.

During an interview on Tuesday, Mark Harper, the Transport Secretary for the UK acknowledged that the technical issue, which lasted for several hours, had impacted thousands of passengers and would last for some days.

Lots of flights were canceled and it is going to take some days to get people back to where they should be, Harper told the BBC.

The news comes as passengers headed to or from the UK faced significant delays, or flight cancellations after Britains National Air Traffic Services (NATS) flight planning system experienced a network-wide failure.

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The fault came on the last day of a summer public holiday weekend in the UK, meaning many vacationers would be affected.

Although NATS confirmed in a statement yesterday that the glitch had been identified and remedied, the disruption caused by the failure, which led to the cancelation of at least 790 departures and 785 flight arrivals at British airports, according to aviation analytics firm Cirium, is continuing.

Traveler Rosa Palladino, who was scheduled to travel to Naples, Italy on Monday, told CNN Travel that she was on her way to Gatwick Airport when she learned that her easyJet flight had been delayed.

After waiting at the airport for an update, Palladino, who lives in the UK, was informed that the flight was canceled.

While Palladino was able to get on to another flight scheduled to leave on Tuesday, and had a place to stay overnight, she explains that some of her fellow passengers had resolved to stay at the airport.

I feel very lucky, she says.

Meanwhile, traveler Lee Vanstone, who is based in the UK, shared a photo of fellow passengers waiting at Pisa Airport on Monday after his flight was delayed, and then canceled, on social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter.

There is no flights for days, he wrote. We have been searching from various locations. We are stranded here. Found somewhere to sleep tonight.

Several UK airports and airlines have issued statements notifying passengers of potential delays today due to the knock-on effect of the glitch.

Due to yesterdays technical issues suffered by UK Air Traffic Control, there may be some continuing disruption on some routes, including flight cancellations, reads a statement from Londons Heathrow Airport on Tuesday.

The UKs second-busiest airport Gatwick stated on Tuesday that while it plans to operate a normal schedule, passengers should check the status of their flight with the airline before traveling to the airport.

Various airlines, including easyJet and British Airways, are also advising passengers to or from the UK to check the status of their flight before going to the airport.

We have identified and remedied the technical issue affecting our flight planning system this morning, a statement on NATS website said on Monday.

We are now working closely with airlines and airports to manage the flights affected as efficiently as possible.

Our priority is always to ensure that every flight in the UK remains safe and we are sincerely sorry for the disruption this is causing. Please contact your airline for information on how this may affect your flight, it added.

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My grandmother was born in Galicia, Spain, but moved to Argentina when she was young.

She was very involved in my life up until she died at 97.

I visited the town where she was born with my children and grieved her loss again.

Every couple of years when I was growing up, my family would embark on a European vacation. My dad is Italian, and my mom is Spanish, so we'd fly to their respective countries to see family and do some sightseeing.

When we went to Spain, my maternal grandmother would join us. When World War II started in 1939, she left the country with her father and brother, migrating to Argentina for a safer future. Her older sister stayed behind with their mom and never left their small town in Galicia.

I remember those summers in Galicia as a kid. The taste of the sweet yogurt she would buy me. How we laughed at the frigid ocean splashing us while we attempted to get into the water for 10 seconds before losing sensation in our extremities. Eating percebes until my belly hurt. The family stories. The smell of the local perfume we'd bring home that permeated our house.

The author as a child with her grandmother. Courtesy of the author

She was very involved in my life

My grandmother basically raised me, not because my parents weren't around; they were always present. But three months after my birth, my grandfather died, and I became my grandma's sole purpose.

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She would babysit anytime my parents needed it. When I was a toddler, they had to go on a work trip to France. When they came back after a month, I was walking and talking, and all I wanted was to spend more time with her.

My parents and I moved a lot while I was growing up, and I grew up in Colombia, Brazil, and the United States. My grandmother would always come to help us settle in and live with us for four to six months at a time. She would take me to school while my mom unpacked boxes, and make me food that felt like home so I wouldn't get homesick, despite me never knowing where "home" really was.

When I went to college in Buenos Aires, I lived with her. My parents thought it'd be a win-win. She'd take care of me, and I'd take care of her. I loved every minute of it. I always had someone to talk to when I came home, and I was there when she once mixed her medicines as her memory faded and called an ambulance for her before it was too late.

She was one of the first people my husband and I told that I was pregnant with a boy. When I told her we were naming him after my grandfather, her dad, and her brother (yes, they all had the same name), she laughed and said, "Poor boy, what an ugly name you're giving him." Honesty was her thing.

She died 4 years ago

My grandmother died in peace when she was 97 years old. She said she was tired of living since everyone her age had already died. I knew it was time, and I still miss her every day of my life. I got her name tattooed on my wrist when we still lived together; I told her I wanted to carry her wherever I went so we could keep adventuring together.

This summer, with my own mother's memory rapidly fading because of Alzheimer's, we decided to go back to my grandmother's town before it was too late for my mom to remember her childhood. I didn't expect to be flooded with so many emotions.

We took my kids to see the house where she grew up, and seeing them run around the backyard while eating freshly picked cherry tomatoes from the vines made me burst into tears.

I miss her so much. And I'm in awe of seeing my children visit Galicia with their grandmother  my mom  and glimpsing in their eyes how they're making memories of their own in the same corner of the world where I have so many.

Read the original article on Insider
Boom is making some serious supersonic strides.

Shortly after announcing that its bonkers Overture concept is moving closer toward reality, the Colorado-based firm has shared that its one-third-scale demonstrator jet is nearing takeoff.

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The XB-1, which first rolled out of Booms Colorado hangar in 2020, was recently moved to the Mojave Air & Space Port in California for ground testing. Last week, the supersonic jet completed taxi testing and received an experimental airworthiness certificate from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

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The recent progress made towards XB-1s first flight reflects the teams collective efforts to build and safely fly the worlds first independently developed supersonic jet, Booms founder and CEO Blake Scholl said in a statement.

The XB-1 is undergoing testing at the Mojave Air & Space Port in California.

The aircraft features a carbon-composite and titanium fuselage and a 17-foot ogive (modified delta) wing that can withstand supersonic speeds. It is also equipped with three General Electric J85 engines that can produce a combined maximum thrust of 12,300 pounds.

In addition to the FAA certification, Boom has also secured letters of authorization that will allow test pilots Bill Doc Shoemaker and Tristan Gepetto Brandenburg to fly XB-1 over the Mojave desert. Coincidently, this airspace is where Charles Chuck Yeager first broke the sound barrier in the Bell X-1 in 1947.

Im looking forward to flying XB-1 here, building on the achievements of other talented engineers and pilots who inspire us every day to make supersonic travel mainstream, Shoemaker adds.

Booms supersonic Overture airliner.

XB-1 was developed as a way to fine-tune the design of the larger Overture airliner. The supersonic aircraft is designed to fly 65 to 80 passengers at Mach 1.7, or about 1,300 mph, which is about twice the speed of todays fastest airliners. To put that into context, Overture will be able to fly from London to New York in three and a half hours. Even better, the airliner will run on 100 percent sustainable aviation fuel (SAF).

Boom says XB-1 has validated its approach to airplane design and enabled engineers to leverage the advanced tools that are critical to Overtures development. A number of aerospace analysts believe Overture will never hit the skies, but it looks like XB-1 definitely will.

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Around four years ago, Emmanuel Williams told his friends he would become the first person ever to catch a swordfish on a jet ski. And on Aug. 23, his oddly specific and unconventional quest came to an end. Standing astride a 12-foot Sea-Doo roughly 50 miles off the Louisiana coast, he and his fishing partner, Capt. Sebastian Noel, landed a 100-pound swordfish and made deep-sea fishing history. The 23-year-old from Miami uploaded a video of their catch to YouTube over the weekend.

Words cant explain how much this catch and experience means to me, Williams wrote in an Instagram post. Im fully committed and dedicated to my craft, and I will continue to push boundaries and complete the unthinkable.

Williams explained that to his knowledge, he and Noel are the first anglers to pull off this "unthinkable" feat. But since there are no governing bodies tracking these "firsts", it's hard to say with absolute certainty that it hasn't been done before. With that disclaimer in mind, there have been multiple examples of anglers catching marlin and other billfish from jet skis, but there are no records online of any angler landing a swordfish from such a vessel.

Catching a Swordfish from a Jet Ski

Their mission began at 2 a.m., when Williams set out from Venice, Louisiana, and throttled his jet ski out into the Gulf of Mexico. He ran about 50 miles offshore, following Capt. Blake Rigby, a local guide and experienced swordfisherman who led the way in his charter boat. Noel and their videographer, Tyler Fischer, rode along on Rigbys boat until they reached the fishing grounds.

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After rigging up a few squid baits, Noel hopped on Williams jet ski, and they dropped their lines into roughly 1,400 feet of water. Then they waited.

I was pretty anxious and really wanted to get this fish, Williams told Sport Fishing Magazine. After a couple hours of waiting morale got a little low, but we ground it out, and then we got that bite and cranked down on that fish. I was super excited to be locked in battle with this fish.

The swordfish was wider than the jet ski and tipped the scales at around 100 pounds.

Williams fought the swordfish until he ran out of gas, and then he handed the rod off to Noel. Noel soon handed the rod back to Williams, who kept cranking until he got the swordfish near the surface. Now that they could see the fish glowing in the water, they prepared for the trickiest part of the battle.

With the swells building and their jet ski bobbing in the middle of the Gulf, Sebastian stretched out his arms and gaffed the swordfish. Williams placed his rod in the rod holder and followed up with another well-placed gaff. The anglers hollered and cheered as the swordfish thrashed against the jet ski, but by that point, the battle was over. History had been made, as best as he can tell.

Read Next: Mississippi Hunters Land 14-Foot State-Record Gator After 7-Hour Fight

Alright guys, there you have it. First ever swordfish on a [Personal Water Craft]  first time ever on the planet, Williams says in the video. We got ourselves a beautiful broadbill swordfish right here.

And, Noel adds at the end, you dont need a big boat to get it done.
Wine bars around the world are seriously upping their food game. The result? Delicious, satisfying dishes that pair perfectly with your favorite glass of wine.

When did wine bars become the most interesting places to have dinner?

On the spectrum between dive bars and fine-dining restaurants, wine bars used to exist in a happy in-between zone: They were places to grab a quick glass of wine and maybe some adventurous charcuterie but not much beyond that. Now the wine-bar world has shifted. These new spots  where the wine flows, the vibes are excellent, and the food is thrilling  are where Im personally most excited to dine out right now.

This shift is happening in cities around the world. Nouveau wine bars in places like Mexico City, Los Angeles, and Tel Aviv are rife with creativity, where expectations are fluid and experimentation is welcome.

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Related: The 15 Most Important Natural Wine Bars in America

We try to create a cool spot for everyone to enjoy, which is in a sense quite humble and open  even a bit rough around the edges, says Steven MacLeod, owner of Alba, an effortlessly inviting natural wine bar in Amsterdam that opened in 2020. For MacLeod, a wine bar seemed like a more flexible model for a restaurant  one that would allow him the freedom to offer a relaxed environment that was a departure from the stiffness of Amsterdams posh fine-dining scene. The vibe in a wine bar is more accessible, says MacLeod.

The same goes in Los Angeles at Voodoo Vin, where a casual feel was the goal from the start: Traditional restaurants are great, but it never crossed our minds to open one, says wine director and co-owner Natalie Hekmat. We love the small, intimate neighborhood wine bars, where it feels so easy to unwind after a day, whether youre alone or with friends.

The food at this new generation of wine bars is intentional yet playful, ambitious yet accessible, with dishes that are meant to go with a range of wine styles. At Loup Bar in Mexico City, the wine list features an abundance of natural wines, and the kitchen prepares food that draws inspiration from the natural-wine ethos, too, emphasizing peak-season ingredients with little intervention. (Their delicate saffron mussels with golden beets inspired our Mussels with Saffron Aioli, Yellow Tomatoes, and Roasted Fingerlings.) We wanted dishes with excellent ingredients from producers who share the same values as our winemakers, Loup Bar co-owner Gaetan Rousset says. Its more about the pairings than about pretension.

Related: Wine Bars in Paris You Need to Add to Your Bucket List

The recipes that follow, each inspired by a standout wine bar  and created to pair beautifully with wine  bring that sensibility home to your dinner table.



Celery Salad with Arugula, Feta, and Pita (Habasta, Tel Aviv)

Jennifer Causey / Food Styling by Margaret Monroe Dickey / Prop Styling by Jillian Knox

At HaBasta in Tel Aviv, seats filled with guests of the beloved spot whove stopped in for a glass of something special and a bite to eat spill into the pedestrian-thronged streets. The menu, handwritten each day, features simple preparations full of bright flavors and satisfying textures. This celery salad is a riff on a crunchy cucumber, onion, and pine nut salad served at the wine bar, layering pita chips, crisp slivers of celery, and creamy, tangy feta cheese. Pair it with a fruit-forward Israeli Sauvignon Blanc, a continuation of HaBastas ethos to cook, eat, and drink locally.

Pair with: a zippy, bright Israeli white, such as the 2021 Yarden Sauvignon Blanc.

Get the Recipe

White Beans with Sausage and Arrabbiata Sauce (Le Verre Vole, Paris)

Jennifer Causey / Food Styling by Margaret Monroe Dickey / Prop Styling by Jillian Knox

Le Verre Vole in Paris is one of the greats. The petite spots lengthy, terroir-driven wine list makes it truly destination-worthy, while the cooks deliver casual, clever, seasonal riffs on classic French bistro fare. From the daily changing menu, Food & Wine editor in chief Hunter Lewis enjoyed pungent stewed tripe nestled in beans at Le Verre Vole last fall so much that he returned home intent on making his own version. His recipe spotlights thin-skinned white beans, which, along with a spicy tomato sauce, partner perfectly with a juicy and bright Beaujolais.

Pair with: a light, juicy red that still has some structure, such as the 2021 Laura Lardy Beaujolais-Villages Gourde a Gamay.

Get the recipe

Green Curry Deviled Eggs (Alba, Amsterdam)

Jennifer Causey / Food Styling by Margaret Monroe Dickey / Prop Styling by Jillian Knox

A curry-spiced oeuf mayonnaise is a favorite at Alba, a wine bar in Amsterdam. This has been on our menu from the beginning, and we often switch up the flavors in it, says owner Steven MacLeod. He enjoys the rich bite with a glass of slightly tannic, skin-contact (i.e., orange) wine made from an aromatic grape like Riesling. When you have a dish like [this], you need something stronger with structure, and curry pairs so well with tropical, floral wines with a fresh kick. Each egg gets a topping of crispy spiced puffed rice that delivers a contrasting, satisfying crunch.

Pair with: a tropical-fruited, aromatic white with some substance, such as the 2020 Sybille Kuntz Estate Mosel Organic Orange Riesling Trocken.

Get the Recipe

Mussels with Saffron Aioli, Yellow Tomatoes, and Roasted Fingerlings (Loup Bar, Mexico City)

Jennifer Causey / Food Styling by Margaret Monroe Dickey / Prop Styling by Jillian Knox

At Loup Bar, a deep list focused on natural wines and a creative kitchen foster a welcoming environment. We never wanted the food to take over from the wines, says Gaetan Rousset, who co-owns Loup Bar with business partner Joaquin Cardoso. Far from taking over, the dishes complement and balance whats in the bottle. This recipe is inspired by one served at Loup Bar that features mussels and golden beets in a silky saffron sauce, but weve swapped in yellow tomatoes for a versatile shoulder-season main that pairs perfectly with a Grenache-and-Syrah blend. The wine offers just enough structure to stand up to the creamy saffron aioli.

Pair with: a fresh, Rhone-style red, ideally from a natural wine producer, such as the 2022 Andrea Calek A Toi Nous.

Get the Recipe

Grilled Skirt Steak and Cipollini Onions with Meyer LemonNori Butter (Place des Fetes, Brooklyn)

Jennifer Causey / Food Styling by Margaret Monroe Dickey / Prop Styling by Jillian Knox

Owen Laufersweiler, chef de cuisine at Place des Fetes, says that the mission of the Brooklyn wine bar is simple: We hope to create a complete experience that sits in your memory for a long time. The knockout grilled steak served here features their signature umami-filled Sauce des Fetes and braised onions. This version draws on their layering of flavors with a savory sauce fortified with Maggi seasoning and nori. Beverage director Piper Kristensen suggests a glass of Silice Viticultores Tinto Ribeira Sacra, a medium-bodied red from northwestern Spain. Its elegant, and the Mencia in it brings a flinty salinity that goes so well with the beef.

Pair with: a savory, medium-bodied red, such as the 2020 Silice Viticultores Tinto Ribeira Sacra.

Get the Recipe

Caesar Steak Tartare (Voodoo Vin, Los Angeles)

Jennifer Causey / Food Styling by Margaret Monroe Dickey / Prop Styling by Jillian Knox

L.A.s Voodoo Vin is the platonic ideal of a neighborhood wine bar. The menu highlights peak California produce and pairs dishes like a garlicky Caesar steak tartare with wine from the bars 400-plus-bottle list. At the wine bar, the tartare is served atop large croutons, assembled like a piece of toast; this version features endive cups for scooping. One of Voodoo Vins most popular items, the tartare plays well with a range of wines. The options are endless, says Natalie Hekmat, wine director and co-owner. But she loves it most with a classic French red like a Cabernet Franc.

Pair with: a peppery, bistro-ready Cabernet Franc, such as the 2021 Bernard Baudry Chinon Le Domaine.

Get the Recipe

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A dispute over sauce outside a Washington, D.C., McDonald's escalated into the fatal stabbing of a 16-year-old, police said.

Naima Liggon, of Waldorf, Maryland, died in the violence early Sunday, Washington Metropolitan Police said in a news release.

Police said she was stabbed outside a McDonald's in the 1900 block of 14th Street NW.

Liggon was taken to a hospital in a private vehicle, police said. Officers responded to the hospital just after 2 a.m. for a report of a teenage girl with stab wounds. Despite lifesaving efforts, she died.

Naima Liggon. (Family photo / via NBC Washington)

Later Sunday, police said, a 16-year-old girl, also of Waldorf, was arrested and found with a knife.

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She has been charged with second-degree murder while armed, assault with intent to kill, aggravated assault, felony assault and carrying a dangerous weapon, NBC Washington reported.

The teen appeared at a hearing Monday in D.C. Superior Court, where Detective Brendan Jasper testified that Liggon was stabbed in an argument over sweet-and-sour sauce among three girls outside the McDonalds just after 2 a.m., The Washington Post reported.

Liggon and another girl began hitting the 16-year-old suspect, and as they tried to get into the vehicle, the suspect lunged at Liggon with a 7-inch pocketknife, hitting her in the chest and the abdomen, he testified.

The teen pleaded not involved, which is the juvenile equivalent of not guilty, the Post reported. Her attorney argued she acted in self-defense in a dispute started by the others, while prosecutors argued she was the only person who took a knife to a fistfight.

At the end of the day, someone is dead over a dispute over sauce, D.C. Superior Court Judge Sherri Beatty-Arthur said, according to the Post.

Liggon was a student at Thomas Stone High School in Waldorf.

A curfew for youths in certain areas of Washington will start Friday in a city effort to buckle down on violent juvenile crime. Under the curfew, children 16 and younger must be off the streets from 11 p.m. to 6 a.m. on weekdays and midnight to 6 a.m. on weekends. The curfew plans were in place before the stabbing.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
A 16-year-old girl allegedly stabbed another teenage girl to death in Washington, D.C., early Sunday, police said. The stabbing happened during an argument over McDonald's sauces, CBS affiliate WUSA-TV reported.

Naima Liggon, 16, was brought to a local hospital where she died of her wounds, the Metropolitan Police Department said.

According to police, the teens  both from Waldorf, Maryland  had ordered food at a D.C. McDonald's and then got in a car together, CBS affiliate WUSA-TV reported. The two then got into an argument over the sauces they had been given, which led to the stabbing, WUSA reported.

Officers took the other girl into custody on charges of second degree murder while armed, officials said. She had a knife when she was arrested, police said.

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Liggon attended Thomas Stone High School in Waldorf, WUSA reported. Monday was the first day of the new school year.

"This is a heartbreaking and tragic time for our school community. This is not the news a principal ever wants to share, let alone the day before we start a new school year," principal Shanif Pearl said in a message to parents, staff and students Sunday, according to WUSA.

"The impact of this senseless loss has affected our family, our friends, and our community," Liggon's family said in the statement provided to WUSA. "Naima will never see her prom or her graduation. We will not get to see her graduate from college or get married or have kids."

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A 28-year-old Rochester man was found dead in a Pennsylvania Park over the weekend, according to Pennsylvania State Police.

Shae Ebner was found dead at Austin Dam Memorial Park in Potter County around 8 a.m. Saturday morning. The cause of death was not disclosed. Troopers said he died sometime on Friday or Saturday.

Troopers found Ebner's body in the water but were not certain when he entered the water as it has been cold overnight, according to The Bradford Era.

Ebner's death occurred during a 3-day music festival at the park, the Austin Dam Show. The event started on Thursday and concluded Saturday. Ebner was a substitute drummer for the band High Pines, which performed Friday night at the festival.

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Austin, Pennsylvania, is about 2.5 hours south of Rochester. Troopers continue to investigate Ebner's death.

This article originally appeared on Rochester Democrat and Chronicle: Shae Ebner found dead at Austin Dam Show in Pennsylvania
Westbound lanes of Interstate 84 in Oregon are open again after two semi trucks were fished out of the Columbia River.

And were off! the Oregon Department of Transportation posted on X, formerly known as Twitter. I-84 ... is now open after a morning of fishing the #ColumbiaRiver for semi-trucks. (We caught two.)

Delays were expected to last for a while in the westbound lanes after a closure started at 7 a.m. between Biggs Junction and Celilo. In total, the closure lasted about six hours.

Getting them out of the river was delicate work that required a lot of coordination, the department said. In total, two semi cabs as well as four trailers needed to be moved out of the river.

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The operation required divers to make sure that the pieces didnt get stuck on the rocks.

Trucks and a large crane hauled the two large trucks out of the river, according to pictures posted on X, formally known as Twitter.

Traffic was detoured around the section of interstate between Biggs Junction and Celilo.

The two trucks crashed into the river starting late Friday night, according to posts from the Sherman County Sheriffs Office.

The first semi which was hauling two trailers from Titan Freight Systems, went through the guardrail.

Its unclear what the truck was hauling, but the driver was able to escape the cab and swim to the shore, the sheriffs office said.

Then a matter of hours later, a second truck, this one hauling two empty tankers, also went into the river. That driver was able to wade to the shoreline.

The sheriffs office didnt say why the drivers lost control in that area.

The Oregon State Police are investigating the crashes.

Check the status of the highway at tripcheck.com.
Abbott's Texas National Guard set up a secret spy operation and treated the border like it was the war in Iraq: whistleblowers

Left: Texas Gov. Greg Abbott ; right: A Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) trooper supporting Operation Lone Star looks over the Rio Grande at the U.S.-Mexico Border on March 23, 2021 in McAllen, Texas. Getty Images

Texas National Guardsmen set up a secret spying mission by using WhatsApp to snoop on migrants, a watchdog found.

Top brass in Operation Lone Star  a state-run effort to combat illegal immigration  "wanted to pretend it was like Iraq," one servicemember told The Texas Tribune and The Military Times.

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott has sent National Guardsmen to the border to stop migrants from crossing into the US.

Texas servicemembers working on Gov. Greg Abbott's Operation Lone Star secretly infiltrated invite-only WhatsApp groups to snoop on migrants and monitor their movements, The Texas Tribune and The Military Times reported  a spying operation that violated rules prohibiting state-run intelligence agencies.

According to Tuesday's joint report in The Tribune and The Military Times, leaders in Operation Lone Star treated it like the army and demanded military-level intelligence from officers who weren't prepared  and likely didn't have the authority  to provide it.

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"Everyone [in charge] wanted to pretend it was like Iraq in 2003," one servicemember told The Tribune and The Military Times. "They wanted to do Army stuff, even though this is [legally] not Army stuff."

Insider has reached out to the Texas National Guard for comment.

Operation Lone Star is Texas' state-run operation aimed at stopping illegal immigration and smuggling.

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott launched the program in 2021 in response to a historic surge in migrants crossing the US's southern border. The program has come under intense scrutiny in recent months over allegations of inhumane orders and tactics like barriers floating in the Rio Grande River.

Lt. Col. David Tyler, who led the intelligence wing from December 2021 to fall 2022, told the outlets that "all the Generals wanted to know about the next mass migration."

The joint report said officers from the Texas National Guard presented some of their findings from the WhatsApp surveillance operation to federal agents from the Department of Homeland Security for a team-up; the feds immediately turned them down.

One DHS official specifically noted that they were an investigative body and "not an intelligence agency," a whistleblower told The Tribune and The Military Times.

After whistleblowers reported the WhatsApp surveillance, leaders in the Texas National Guard shut down Operation Lone Star's intelligence unit, the report said.

The Texas Military Department's inspector general also investigated the activity and determined it was an unauthorized foreign intelligence operation, the outlets reported.

Read the original article on Business Insider
The American Civil Liberties Union of Kansas is urging a federal judge to impose a severe injunction against the Kansas Highway Patrol to block future violations of drivers constitutional rights. Under the rule, troopers would need to receive training and keep detailed records about traffic stops, among other requirements.

Federal Judge Kathryn Vratil proposed the injunction last month when she issued a scathing ruling that found the states top law enforcement agency had waged war on motorists and violated their 4th Amendment rights through the use of the Kansas two-step.

In the practice, troopers would take a couple steps away from a stopped drivers car at the end of a traffic stop before returning to begin a voluntary interaction with the driver  continuing to probe them and buy time for backup and drug sniffing dogs to arrive.

The ACLU is representing drivers whose vehicles were searched because of the two-step and have argued the injunction is needed to eliminate the risk that those drivers rights are violated again.

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In a filing last week the Kansas Attorney Generals office, representing KHP, argued that Vratils proposed injunction was unnecessary and created too much of an administrative burden on the agency.

Under the proposed injunction, troopers would have to document all stops, detentions and searches including information on the duration of the stop and how it ended. They would need to get approval from a supervisor for consensual searches and let drivers know they can revoke consent at any point.

The patrol would also be required to give officers a single consistent supervisor who worked the same hours as that officer, provide at least 24 hours of training on stops and hire a special master to oversee their compliance with all the requirements.

Though the patrol argued the injunction was unnecessary because existing legal remedies were sufficient, the ACLU said in a brief Monday that Vratil had already found that the injunction was appropriate and the best way to avoid more violations of drivers rights.

Paying damages to drivers whose rights were violated, the ACLU wrote, would not guarantee the agency would stop the practice in the future.

Otherwise, the KHP would be able to openly flout the Fourth Amendments requirements so long as it could afford to remunerate the rare plaintiff who files a successful damages claim, the filing said.

Additionally, the ACLU argued that the proposed terms of the injunction specifically answered problems identified in court.

KHP had argued that requirements around staffing of troopers and supervisors were impossible given the agencys existing staffing and budget. A requirement that troopers alert their supervisors before initiating a search would impede upon their work as law enforcement officers, they argued, and they called the requirement that they inform drivers they can revoke consent for a search overkill.

Obtaining permission from supervisors, the ACLU argued, would help prevent the sorts of unconstitutional searches that resulted from the two-step, and requiring supervisors to work the same days as their troopers, they said, aligned with best practices.

Notice to drivers that they can revoke consent, the ACLU said, was necessary because under these circumstances many motorists would not know that they could decline to answer additional questions from the officer or decline a search of their vehicle.

A hearing on the terms of the injunction is scheduled for next month.
Former President Donald Trump took to social media again to make claims that the judge presiding over his election interference case in federal court is biased.

Trump has been charged in the federal case with conspiracy to defraud the United States; conspiracy against the right to vote and to have ones vote counted; conspiracy to abruptly disrupt and impede the Jan. 6, 2021, congressional hearing; and conspiracy to obstruct an official government proceeding.

U.S. District Court Judge Tanya Chutkan is presiding over Donald Trumps federal criminal case. (Photos: Getty Images/ U.S. District Court )

On Monday, Aug. 28, the ex-POTUS took to his social media to blast U.S. District Court Judge Tanya Chutkan after she set his trial date for March 4, 2024.

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Related: Hey, You Stupid Slave Ner: Vile Texas Woman Threatens to Kill Black Judge Overseeing Donald Trumps Election Interference Case In Federal Court

Attorneys for Trump wanted the trial to start in April 2026, while special counsel Jack Smith asked for Jan. 2, 2024. Chutkan scheduled the trial date closer to the prosecutions suggestion, which invoked objections from the former president.

These proposals are obviously very far apart, Chutkan said Monday. Neither of them is acceptable.

One reason why this could be problematic for Trump is because he, as the top Republican presidential candidate, would be on trial eight months before the 2024 election. The high-profile trial would also be in Washington, D.C., which could look disastrous for his campaign, according to CNBC.

Trumps lawyer, John Lauro, objected, saying in the hearing, In our judgment, that trial date is inconsistent with President Trumps right to due process and the right to effective assistance of counsel.

Trump wrote on his Truth Social website, Today a biased, Trump Hating Judge gave me only a two month extension, just what our corrupt government wanted, SUPER TUESDAY. I will APPEAL!

This is not the first time that the former reality star has aired his grievances about Chutkan. On Aug. 13 and Aug. 14, he blasted the judge as highly partisan and very biased and unfair. He also claimed she wanted to cause harm to him during the trial. Chutkan received death threats shortly after Trumps last rant.

Trump targeted Smith as well, the House Select Committee investigating Jan. 6, and President Joe Biden . He shot at them for linking him directly to those who participated in the botched government takeover.

Deranged Jack Smith & his team of Thugs, who were caught going to the White House just prior to Indicting the 45th President of the United States (an absolute No No!), have been working on this Witch Hunt for almost 3 years, but decided to bring it smack in the middle of Crooked Joe Bidens Political Opponents campaign against him. Election Interference! Trump wrote.

He added, How do you have an Indictment that is based almost entirely on the findings of the January 6th Unselect Committee of Marxists, Fascists, and Political Hacks, when these same lowlifes, who have been caught lying for years about Russia, Russia, Russia, Ukraine, Ukraine, Ukraine, FISA, the Fake Dossier, & much more, purposely & Illegally DESTROYED & DELETED all of the Evidence, Findings, & Proof of the January 6th Committee? When will Deranged Jack Smith Criminally Charge the Committee?

While the former president was adamant that he would appeal, attorney Bradley P. Moss said this would not be possible.

Just in: he cannot, Mos said in an X.

Other legal experts have said, He has no right to appeal Judge Chutkans setting the trial in March.

Trump has denied all four charges of illegally conspiring to overturn his 2020 election loss to Biden and pleaded not guilty in this case.

CLICK HERE TO READ MORE.
SPRINGFIELD, Mo.  Bob Barker , one of daytime TVs biggest game show hosts, beloved national figure and Ozarks figure, has died at the age of 99.

He graduated from high school and college in Springfield, and met his wife. Barker left the Ozarks in the late 1940s to make his career in California, but returned regularly and made generous donations to his college alma mater  Drury University.

Barker was well known among many community members who said he made a lasting impact on the community and the nation.

Mother charged after 6-month-old found dead in Kansas City field

Before he was the face of The Price is Right, Barker spent his young adulthood in Springfield, graduating from what is now Central High School in 1941 and attending Drury University (known then as Drury College).

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He was always supportive of Springfield, of the public schools of Drury, said John Sellars, the Executive Director Emeritus at the History Museum on the Square. He came back many times. He would grand marshal parades and things like that and was very proud of his time here and the success he had here in Springfield.

Barker left Drury for a few years to join the Navy Reserve and served in World War II. After his service ended, he returned to Springfield to finish his degree at the college and landed his first on-air job at KTTS radio, at a time when radio was starting to take off.

Later, he would become the host of a game show called Truth or Consequences. His success on the show led to him being selected as the host of The Price is Right, a role he held for 35 years.

He was always very friendly and kind with the people that was on his show. I mean, you know, he did the come on down thing and everything, said Daniel Vaughn, a Bob Barker fan. You know, and you just wanted to be there, you know, in his presence.

Im glad he lived a good long life, 99. But death is sad, and the absence of his presence is kind of a sobering thought, said Phillip Wright, another Barker fan. But my gosh, he made a big impact upon the whole nation with his welcoming smile.

KC mayor shares rendering showing Plaza with pedestrian-only streets

Barkers impact stretched even beyond people as he used his platform to advocate for animal rights. He donated to Drurys animal studies program as well as the Humane Society of Southwest Missouri.

He is one of the ones that was so grounded, Sellars said. And so natural in what his thoughts were and what he did and attempted to do is just amazing, amazing person.

Whether its the smile he put on peoples faces or the animals he helped, Barkers life and legacy will be remembered in Springfield. A street near Drurys campus is named Bob Barker Boulevard in his honor.

I wish we could all smile like Bob Barker, Wright said.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 4 Kansas City WDAF-TV | News, Weather, Sports.
Bolton says Trump can spend a little of his own money on legal defense

John Bolton, a former national security adviser to former President Trump, said Monday the former president can spend a little of his own money on his legal defense.

People who worry about whether poor Donald Trumps going to have enough money for campaign purposes and legal bills  hes a gazillionaire, ask him, hell tell you frequently. He can spend a little of his own money, Bolton said in an interview on NewsNations The Hill.

Well it befuddles me why anybody would give a billionaire money to pay their own legal bills, Bolton said.

Trumps campaign confirmed last weekend the former president raised $7.1 million since he was booked at the Fulton County Jail last week, where he became the first U.S. president to have his mug shot taken.

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Trump raised $4.18 million on Friday alone, marking the highest-grossing day of his entire campaign, a spokesperson said. The former presidents fundraising haul was first reported by Politico.

In the last three weeks, the campaign brought in nearly $20 million, even amid two separate indictments over his alleged efforts to remain in office after the 2020 election.

I think its very disturbing that in what I always thought of as a political party based on principle, that so many people seem attracted to an individual almost regardless of what he does, Bolton said.

Campaign filings previously showed Trump burned through millions of dollars in donor money to pay for legal fees as he defends himself in four criminal cases.

In doing so, he has faced criticism for showing no interest in providing financial aid to his former aides who are charged alongside him over an alleged scheme to overturn the 2020 presidential election results.

Last week, Trump-aligned attorney and co-defendant Jenna Ellis publicly questioned why super PAC MAGA Inc. is not paying for her defense, and the defense of other defendants in the Georgia case.

Michael Cohen, who served as Trumps personal attorney, echoed this argument, calling the former president an idiot for not paying his co-defendants bills.

Fulton County, Ga., District Attorney Fani Willis (D) charged Trump alongside 18 other co-defendants in an alleged scheme to overturn the 2020 presidential election in the state. Trump faces 13 charges ranging from making false statements and impersonating a public officer to conspiracy and racketeering.

The indictment marked Trumps fourth criminal case as he fights three other criminal cases in New York City, Florida and Washington, D.C.

NewsNation is owned by Nexstar Media Group, which also owns The Hill.

This story was updated at 11:54 a.m.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
If you purchased a Dole fruit cup recently, you may be eligible for part of a settlement the company has reached, even if you dont have a receipt to prove your purchase.

A lawsuit was filed against Dole Packaged Foods in Illinois, accusing the company of falsely advertising that many of its Dole Fruit Bowls were made with 100% juice. Instead, plaintiffs said the bowls contained trace amounts of ascorbic acid and/or citric acid or other ingredients.

Dole has denied wrongdoing, saying the statement in 100% juice is about how the fruit is packaged and does not cover every ingredient in the product. Still, the company has agreed to a $4.3 million settlement in the case, according to a website dedicated to the lawsuit.

When will Facebook settlement payments be sent out? Heres what we know

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To qualify for a settlement payment, you need to have purchased any of these Dole Fruit Bowls between January 12, 2017, and June 27, 2023: Cherry Mixed Fruit, Diced Apples, Diced Pears, Diced/Chunk Mango, Papaya Mango, Peach Mango, Mandarin Oranges, Mixed Fruit, Pineapple Tidbits/Slices/Chunks/Crushed, Mixed Fruit, Pineapple Paradise, Red Grapefruit Sunrise, Melon Medley, Tropical Fruit, or Diced/Sliced Peaches labeled in 100% juice or in 100% fruit juice.

While you do not need proof of purchase to take part in the settlement, you can only receive a cash refund of up to $9 per household, according to the settlement website. Those with a proof of purchase can receive up to $18 per household.

Settlement claims can be filed online or via mail through September 25, 2023.

The settlement still needs final approval from a judge, and a hearing has been scheduled for October 26, 2023. If it is approved, payments are expected to be delivered about 60 days later.

More details can be found here.

Dole isnt the only company that has agreed to a settlement recently.

5 recalls in 4 weeks: All the things from Trader Joes you should toss

Church & Dwight Co., the owner of the Batiste hair product line, recently agreed to a $2.5 million class action lawsuit over claims its dry shampoo contains benzene, a carcinogen that can, in some instances, cause cells to not work correctly, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Eligible Facebook users have just a few days left to claim their piece of a $725 million settlement the social media company agreed to in order to settle claims it allowed peoples personal data to be shared with third parties.

Alix Martichoux and Russell Falcon contributed to this report.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 4 Kansas City WDAF-TV | News, Weather, Sports.
MUNCIE, Ind.  A few weeks ago, Scott Albertson, a driver with the Muncie Sanitary District, stopped by the historical society with a legit treasure. Albertson had an old invoice ledger from a Muncie business that he wanted to know more about.

The books original owner was John R. Ervin, a Civil War veteran who ran a popular saloon, liquor wholesale, and billiards hall in the Wysor Opera House building from 1879 until his death in 1896. The ledger is in excellent condition and shows paid invoices between June 25, 1885 and March 20, 1888.

The Wysor Opera House Saloon was in one of the bays on the right side of the photo, early 1900s.

Unlike the debauchery commonly found at disreputable Muncie saloons, Ervins joint was a respectable place in the 1880s. The Morning News gushed in November 1881 that Ervin ran a well furnished, handsomely equipped and well conducted liquor house, where gentlemen can resort for refreshments, with assurance of being supplied with pure liquors, of good quality, secure from the insults and crowding of loafing bullies and bummers.

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The saloon was located in prime downtown real estate, the 1873 Wysor Opera House building at the southwest corner of Main and Walnut streets. The Wysors front entrance was on Main but several storefronts ran along the side facing Walnut. Some of this space was leased in 1876 to Charles Russey for a saloon. It remained as such, though under different owners, until 1905 when the Wysor Building replaced the Wysor Opera House.

John Ervin was the longest owner of the saloon. He was born in 1842 just across the Randolph County border in Windsor. He moved to Muncie as a teenager and found work in Samuel Bradys harness shop. When the Civil War broke out, Ervin volunteered and served in the Union Armys 36th Indiana Infantry Regiment. He fought in the battles of Shiloh, Chickamauga, and Mission Ridge. Early in the war, he was captured after the Battle of Stones River and held in a Confederate prison camp for a few months. In late 1864, he marched with Sherman to the sea, smashing the rebel-held countryside in the process.

Ervin returned to Muncie after the war and managed a saloon in the Neely Building on East Main. He moved briefly to Missouri in 1872 and worked as a grocer but returned to Muncie in '79 and bought the Opera House Saloon from Russey. Under Ervin, the saloon had undergone a complete and magnificent transformation, according to the Morning News.

The saloon now featured a marble and slate floor, an ornately designed ceiling of lavender colored tiles, an enormous chandelier, and gold molding. A sign descended from the ceiling that read ERVINS in all caps. Wood panels and artwork adorned the walls, along with a giant 11x15 foot mirror that hung at one end. A custom-designed cooler of black walnut and ebony kept the beer frosty cold, courtesy of Muncie Ice.

For well-to-do Munsonians, the Opera House Saloon was the place to go in the 80s. The Daily Times reported that Ervin sold 200 kegs of beer in August 1880 alone. The following year he added a billiards room and a wholesale liquor and cigar store. The Morning News remarked that Ervins sample room is undoubtedly the finest in the State of Indiana outside of Indianapolis.

John Ervin started using the ledger in the summer of 1885. The first entry on June 25 shows that he paid $127.20 for 2,100 Cuban cigars from P.C. Fulweiler Cigar Manufacturer in Philadelphia. A few weeks later, he bought 20 kegs of wiener beer from C.F. Schmidt Brewers in Indianapolis for $42.50. The ledger contains a total of 26 similar Schmidt Brewing invoices. Wiener beer was quite popular in Muncie at the time. A Morning News ad bragged that it was sold only at Opera House and Tremont saloons.

As to be expected from a Gilded Age saloon, the ledger shows that Ervin bought enormous quantities of booze and cigars, mostly from vendors in Indianapolis, Philadelphia, Cincinnati, and Louisville. However, the book also lists transactions with local businesses. For instance on July 6, 1885, Ervin paid Muncie Ice $17.63 for 7,050 pounds of northern Indiana lake ice in the month of June. A week later, he bought 83 lbs of crackers for $4.77 from Joseph Hummel and Son Bakery on 147 E. Main Street. The ledger also has invoices showing routine payments to the publishers of the Muncie Daily Herald, the Sunday Pink, and the Muncie Times for newspaper ads.

Original Wysor Opera House on the right, southwest corner of Main and Walnut Street. Patterson Block still stands (left).

In August of 1885, Ervin bought a $6.40 bird cage from Charles Mayer and Company in Chicago. The enclosure was the new home for the saloons pet parrot. The year before, the Morning News had written that John Ervins parrot is becoming well versed in the use of words and is quite an attraction to those who call at his place of business.

For a reason I cant determine, Ervin paid the architect Brentwood Tolan $28 for drawings and specifications just before Christmas in 1885. The invoice provides no other details, but Im guessing Ervin bought copies of architectural drawings for the planned third Delaware County Courthouse. Ervin was listed in the press earlier that year as a holder of county courthouse bonds.

A year later, Ervin electrified his Opera House Saloon, paying James Boyce $30.80 in January for his company to install electric lamps and fixtures. His electric bill for the month of March 1886 was $9.30. After natural gas was discovered, Ervin paid the newly formed Muncie Natural Gas Company $10.96 to add service to his saloon. His gas bill for April 1887 was $3.

In addition to running the saloon, Ervin was active in the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks and the Williams Post of the Grand Army of the Republic, a veterans organization. On March 7, 1883, he married Maggie Brady, the Kirby Hotels housekeeper. The couple had one child, a son named John. The family attended St. Lawrence Catholic Church.

In May of 1896, John Ervin fell ill and died young at the age of 54. His obit suggested that what caused his death stemmed from old war wounds. Nathan Long of Muncies GAR remarked that again has death claimed as a victim a veteran of the war. John R. Ervin  has gone to his eternal bivouac after months of suffering caused by wounds from rebel shot and shell, and exposure to southern sun and storm.

In life, Im sure Ervin kept other business ledgers, but I have no idea how or why this one survived 135 years. Ervin probably didnt think much of it. At the time, it was nothing more than a banal accounting of his invoices. But for us, five generations later, it offers detailed insight into a very different Muncie of long ago.

Chris Flook is a Delaware County Historical Society board member and a Senior Lecturer of Media at Ball State University.

This article originally appeared on Lafayette Journal & Courier: ByGone Muncie: An 1880s ledger from John Ervins Opera House Saloon
China's economy is turning into a big black blob.

This transformation means that while the country's economy will still be significant to global business, it will no longer be the lodestar for growth. It will still advance, but much more slowly. And while those on the outside will still be able to observe the economy, it will become increasingly difficult to truly understand what's going on within.

The reality of China's blob era pushed its way to the center of the global news cycle earlier this month when the Chinese government announced that it would no longer publish the unemployment rate for young people as part of its monthly jobs report. The final release for the data series  July's number  came in at a record high of 20.5%. The number had become a global shorthand for China's inability to reignite its economy since President Xi Jinping ended the country's draconian COVID-19 lockdowns. So now it's gone.

The sudden disappearance of the youth-unemployment report generated headlines, but it's not a shock for longtime China watchers. Data has been disappearing from all over the country for years now. Reports detailing everything from exports to cement production  which are arguably more crucial for understanding the country's structural malaise than youth unemployment  have vanished or become corrupted to the point that they're no longer useful. This is not happening just because the economy is slowing; plenty of countries continue publishing data even though it's no longer rosy. This is happening because Xi's China is one that puts ideology before economic growth.

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For decades, the Chinese Communist Party's primary focus was to develop the economy, and more recently, to turn the Chinese consumer into a dynamic force of global demand. That transition required major reforms in how China operated its economy  slowly opening it up and giving it a more bottom-up structure in which individuals make more choices about their livelihoods. But after years of fueling China's rise, these efforts have been stopped in their tracks. Not because the reforms weren't working, but because the China they were creating is not the one Xi wants to see.

"I don't even know that it is possible to move to a private, domestic, demand-driven economy in China, given how it directly conflicts with the top-down manner in which the party typically manages the economy," Charlene Chu, the managing Director and senior analyst at Autonomous Research, told me. "It would take a sea change in thinking."

Even as the main drivers of China's economy stumble, there will be no direct support to help households power through this fragile period. Xi has been telling his people to prepare for a "struggle," to be ready to put geopolitical concerns over economic ones for the foreseeable future. This is bad news for multinational corporations  companies like Nike and Starbucks  that banked on a growing, opening China. And it's bad news for investors who've been waiting for China's growth to return to something like it was before the pandemic. The economy has been showing signs of a structural slowdown for a long time, but the strain on the system has become so great that the market can no longer ignore it.

The struggles that China faces are real  economic pain, foreign-investor concerns, crumbling demographics  but in the face of these challenges, it's clear that Xi will not bend on his vision for the sake of the country. He'd rather shut out the world.

Known unknowns

Transparency in China's economic data has always moved the same cycles as its politics. Now that Xi and the CCP are openly embracing some of the hardline practices of the past, data is disappearing in kind. The most worrying example of this growing secrecy comes from the real-estate sector. China's property market makes up about 30% of the country's GDP, making it the cornerstone of the economy. It's also a sector where crucial data has been vanishing since the end of last year.

"The National Bureau of Statistics stopped disclosing data on land sales by area after December and consumer confidence after March," Chu wrote in a recent report for clients. "It also changed how it calculates property sales and investment growth starting in March." The changes, Chu and Zhang wrote, have caused eyebrow-raising gaps between the official numbers and estimates based on an aggregate of secondary indicators.

It's not just real estate: Exports make up about 18% to 24% of China's annual GDP, but Chu wrote that the Chinese Custom Bureau's official data has begun to diverge noticeably from import data from the country's trading partners. Based on the discrepancy, it's becoming clear that China is overstating how much stuff it's shipping abroad. Chu said she now uses a blend of the two datasets, and based on that average she estimates that China's 2023 exports will fall 8% compared to 2022.

Over at China Beige Book, a private surveyor of the Chinese economy, analysts wrote that official numbers on assets firms use to make income  from buildings to bulldozers  "now border on useless" because of the government's constant tweaking of the calculations. J Capital Research, a China-focused investment firm, wrote in a note to clients recently that key proxies for investment, such as the amount of cement, glass, and tile being produced, have disappeared as well. These are numbers investors used to figure out the growth and scale of China's construction and industrial production. Not anymore.

"Withholding/recalculating data may help manage confidence issues domestically, but in our experience it can undermine it with foreign investors," Chu wrote. "So this path isn't costless, particularly with foreign investor and multinational corporation confidence also low."

Foreign investors have been taking the hint, selling Chinese domestic stocks and bonds at a rapid rate for the past few weeks. But Beijing's policymakers have seen these same investors get the jitters before, only to come back with dollars in their fists ready to pounce on the next wave of growth. What makes this time different is that without accurate data, there's no way to tell when the next wave is coming  so there's no reason to get back in the water at all.

Unknown Knowns

Sometime in the past few months, Wall Street went from expecting that China would experience a glorious bounce back from COVID to panicking about an all-out economic collapse. The consensus from those calling for catastrophe is that Xi should do what Western governments did during the pandemic: send checks to China's households to spur consumption and grease the wheels of the economy. That's not going to happen, even though leading Chinese economists have called for it.

Partially, this is about politics. Xi's unwillingness to send out stimulus checks to households is a sign of his government's disinclination to let go of that control. He fundamentally does not believe average people should direct the economy that much. A recent essay in the Study Times, a journal explaining Communist Party thought, argued that sending direct aid to families would not only be expensive but also result in a misallocation of investment.

Chinese President Xi Jinping isn't going to suddenly change his mind and send out stimulus checks to Chinese households. Xie Huanchi/Xinhua via Getty Images

"If 1000 yuan were distributed to each person, it would require about 1.4 trillion yuan, but how much could this really stimulate consumption? This would not only create a huge fiscal burden, but residents' consumption habits, structures, and willingness are also limiting its effectiveness," the essay said, according to a translation in the China-focused newsletter Sinocism. "Especially since the pandemic has to some extent strengthened residents' precautionary motives, making consumption more conservative, this would inevitably lead to inefficient use of valuable fiscal resources."

Reaching high-income status has been the Communist Party's raison d'etre for decades. It's why the government joined the World Trade Organization in 2001 and why it began welcoming more and more foreign investment in the 2000s. It's why the CCP pushed the debt-to-GDP ratio to almost 280% to fight the 2009 global recession. And it is why thegovernment has continually opened the credit spigots every time there has been an inkling of economic weakness. During those fracturable moments, state banks loaned money mostly to state-owned enterprises and the government could direct the process. That process led to an inefficient allocation of capital that kept nonperforming debt in the financial system. Victor Shih, an associate professor and the director of the 21st Century China Center at University of California San Diego, told me that it would take payments totaling 10% to 20% of China's GDP to spur the kind of consumption necessary to pull China out of the doldrums the state steered it into.

This is in stark contrast to the philosophy of consumer empowerment practiced in open economies, where individuals, households, and private businesses control capital. If money is power, then handing out "helicopter money" is one version of power to the people. Xi believes power belongs in the hands of the state. Even if stimulus is the best way to push China's economy forward, the CCP is making it clear that maintaining its power is a higher priority.

You needn't pour over Communist Party doctrine to see this shift from an economy-focused government to a power- and security-focused one. The signs are everywhere: in the crackdown on private-sector businesses, in the all-too-normal disappearances of high-profile billionaires, and in Beijing's new anti-espionage law that some analysts worry will turn regular financial due diligence into a crime. Over the past year, foreign consulting firms have been raided by the authorities, and the Ministry of State Security  once a shadowy organization  has developed a presence on WeChat where citizens are encouraged to report any behavior that could be deemed anti-party. In this environment, the risk for foreigners isn't just that they break a law, it's that they don't know that they're breaking a law while they're breaking it.

Unknown Unknowns

By keeping everyone in the dark about the economy, Beijing may think that it is reclaiming power and mitigating social instability. What it's really doing is showing its hand. State mouthpieces can continue to give lip service to opening and reform, but Beijing's actions show that the Chinese Communist Party's priorities have shifted from economic development to maintaining a closed society where it is absolutely dominant.

"Basically, the authorities are so afraid of any sign of instability," Shih said. "They believe the financial system to be so fragile, they fear any shock could cause a crisis."

In part because of that fear, policymakers handle economic problems piecemeal  in order of most glaring first  without allowing for an overall correction in sectors that are failing, such as property. Over time, this only exacerbates debt problems and adds volatility to the system. While Beijing plays financial meltdown whack-a-mole, investors need to calculate risk. Without data, it's hard to know where the Chinese economy is going, but through the blur, investors can see a trajectory led by the CCP's ideological framework and weighed down by debt. In this scenario, it ultimately becomes harder, not easier, to know what's going on. And Xi's fine with that.

Linette Lopez is a senior correspondent at Insider.

Read the original article on Business Insider
In South Korea, officials with the local Coast Guard pulled a jet-ski rider from the sandy island coast where he had beached his personal watercraft. That man turned out to be Kwon Pyong, a noted and persecuted political dissident from China. He had escaped via jet ski from Shandong, a province in east central China thats a mere 200 miles from South Korea across the Yellow Sea. Officials said Kwon had traveled 186 miles on his jet ski, towing extra fuel in barrels behind it. News organizations have reported on Kwons record as a dissident in the Peoples Republic of China, as well as his imprisonment and surveillance there. He will likely seek asylum in South Korea.

But what about the jet ski? How far is a 186-mile trip for a personal watercraft like this? How would it fare on open waters, 90 miles from the nearest mainland? And how much gas would you need to complete the trip across the Yellow Sea?

Types of Jet Skis

Jet ski is a term that once referred only to a specific name brand. The Jet Ski brand belongs to the Japanese company, Kawasaki, the same one that makes motorcycles, dirt bikes, and ATVs. At first, Jet Ski personal watercraft let the rider stand, with a steering column that you could lift into a more upright position. That contrasted with WaveRunner, the Yamaha brand of personal watercraft; users were seated on these craft, and the steering column did not move. Today, Jet Ski, WaveRunner, and other manufacturers like Sea-Doo all offer seated options. Both terms persist as proprietary eponyms, like kleenex, xerox, and band-aid.

Suspected Chinese dissident makes 186 mile jet ski ride to South Korea



A prominent Chinese dissident who traveled almost 200 miles across the sea to flee China, has been detained in South Korea.#China #SouthKorea pic.twitter.com/mnABHPX84Z  Spotlight on China (@spotlightoncn) August 25, 2023

Its not clear from press photos what make or model the jet ski is that Kwon used, but it appears to be an older watercraft. Jet skis get between 80 and 140 miles per tank of gas, estimates Jet Ski Tips, an informational website run by jet-ski enthusiasts , though the industry does not make any mileage figures public like vehicle manufacturers must. Todays Jet Ski models have 20-gallon fuel tanks, and a supercharged Sea-Doo from 2003 had a capacity of about 16 gallons. That older model could carry an additional 600 pounds over its own weight of 900 pounds. It also had a hitch to attach a skier or tuber, so it could certainly have pulled some amount of extra fuel in barrels.

How Much Fuel Would It Take to Cross the Yellow Sea by Jet Ski?

Traveling in a straight line toward a faraway destination, over open seas, is very different from making figure-8s in a small area near the shore or even on an inland lake or river. Kwon would need at least one fresh supply of fuel for his trip, and might even need two, depending on how he was driving and what he was carrying.

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 Heres a list of the many factors that affect fuel consumption, according to Jet Ski Tips :



 Temperature (of both water and air)



 Water conditions



 Wind direction and speed



 Type of water (saltwater is denser, and therefore slower to move through, than freshwater)



 Humidity (more humid air is thicker, and therefore, slower)



 Riding style (the riders position, and also how aggressively they ride, will affect the fuel efficiency)



 Condition of the personal watercraft



 Weight of rider



 Extra cargo



 Large cargo and size of rider affecting aerodynamics



 Speed

I would also speculate, based on how fuel consumption works in land vehicles, that the age of the vehicles motor makes a difference. (If you have a used car and really want a scare, note your actual mileage today and check that against the original government rating when your car was new.) And using lower-quality fuel in a premium engine will reduce fuel efficiency as well.

So what do we know? (Thank you to the wind map of Earth site for much of the water and air info below.)

Last week , the Yellow Sea was roughly around 80 degrees Fahrenheit; thats very warm. If water is too warm, that can actually slow down a watercraft. On the other hand, an engine thats been sitting in warm water has a lot less warming up to do compared with an engine sitting in cold water.

Popular Mechanics; Google Maps

The air temperature was also about 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Warm air can slow down a watercraft, partly because engines suck in air, and sucking in less-dense warm air just means less oxygen per breath; its like traveling a little ways up a tall mountain, where the air grows thinner.

On August 23, a medium wind was blowing south-southwest, while milder water currents were pushing north-northwest. Whenever a boat must push against a headwind or compensate for a sidewind, that boat loses some fuel efficiency. The current created some moderate waves that day, and the list tells us saltwater is slower than freshwater.

Kwon was towing fuel, which might seem like a large amount of extra cargo. But jet skis like the one Kwon was driving are made to carry two riders and often to tow a third. Even if he had to carry two entire fuel refills of 16 gallons, thats only about 195 pounds plus the weight of the barrels he stored the fuel in. It wouldnt be impossible, although that much weight would definitely lower the fuel economy. These barrels would also create drag as they were towed.

But the key factor here is one we dont know: how fast was Kwon driving? Jet skis can have a comfortable, moderate cruising speed of 50 miles per hour or higher, or about 35 mph for the older Sea-Doo. At that speed, or even a slower speed to accommodate the bobbing fuel barrels, he would get mileage on the higher end. But if he was scared of being caught and needed to rush in order to evade authorities, he might have opened the throttle; that lowers fuel economy significantly.

Getty Images

Overall, weve ticked most of the factors that can increase fuel consumption. It also seems reasonable to assume Kwon went full throttle for at least a portion of his journey. If the range is 80140 miles for jet skis like this, Kwon might have gotten around 100 miles per gallon. That means he had to refill basically the entire fuel tank in the middle of the Yellow Sea.

Thankfully for Kwon, the fuel systems in most personal watercraft, like jet skis, are quite easy to change on the fly . The Watercraft Journal specializes in coverage of longer personal watercraft journeys, and they say their kit uses the age-old siphoning of fuel to make a natural vacuum that pulls fuel from an extra fuel reservoir. Switching, they say, can take a matter of seconds for a rider seated on the jet ski.



Watercraft Journal editor Kevin Shaws personal record for one day of travel is 443 miles. To do that, he used 60 gallons of fuel, which is almost three full tanks in his newer Kawasaki Jet Ski. He traveled down a river and made pitstops, which was not an option for Kwon. If Kwon consumed fuel at the same rate as Shaw, he would need around 150 pounds of fuel for his trip.

Extending the range of jet skis is a big part of the aftermarket and even original equipment manufacturer (OEM) market for these watercraft. But for Kwonwho likely knew he was being observed by the stateit was probably not as easy to gather the things he needed to extend his trip without drawing unwanted attention.

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Mike Duggan said he won't decide until next year whether he will seek a fourth term as Detroit's mayor, but City Council President Mary Sheffield isn't waiting on Duggan to make up his mind.

Sheffield is quietly laying the groundwork to run for mayor, filing paperwork Aug. 17 establishing the "Mary Sheffield for Detroit's Future" committee. Under Michigan law, a candidate for elected office must create a candidate committee shortly after beginning to lay the groundwork for a campaign. That process can include hiring consultants or raising money. By forming her candidate committee this month, Sheffield is getting an unusually early start on the election, which won't be held until 2025 when the mayor's and city council members' collective terms expire.

"Over the last 10 years, I have devoted my life in service to the residents of Detroit. While I have accomplished so much during my tenure on Council, I am constantly trying to find ways to do even more knowing the needs of Detroiters are still great. In that vein, I have filed a statement of organization for the office of Mayor solely for the purpose of exploring a potential run and because I have been advised it is the only legal method of doing so under the confines of the Michigan Campaign Finance statute," Sheffield said in a text message to the Free Press, adding that she remains committed to her duties as council president and has "NOT made a decision" on her future career.

She also said: "I have elicited the support of a national campaign expert with ties to Detroit and advisor to the Obama and Beto campaigns, Nick Rathod, to help me navigate this initial exploratory process," Sheffield said.

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More: Flint attorneys are getting millions in fees; now they want interest from $626.25M fund

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Duggan spokesman John Roach said of Sheffield's potential candidacy: Im sure this will just be the first of many. Mayor of Detroit is a really good job and will attract a lot of candidates.

Sheffield was first elected to the Detroit City Council from the city's near east side in 2013. She won a close race, but hasn't faced serious opposition since. Her strength in District 5  which includes areas like Midtown, Downtown, Indian Village, Boston Edison and New Center, among other notable neighborhoods  is so great that no one ran against her in 2021, allowing her to campaign for other city council candidates. The successful candidates she supported help elect her city council president in 2022.

Sheffield, who has cultivated a populist image since joining the council, said her priorities as council president would include reparations for Black Detroiters victimized by urban renewal and finding hundreds of millions of dollars for Detroiters who paid more property taxes than they should have. The council created a Reparations Task Force, but there has been little news about where the money for the overtaxed Detroiters would come from.

Sheffield was the only city council member to vote against granting more than $800 million in tax credits for Olympia Development's oft-delayed District Detroit project.

The council president also supported an ordinance to provide free legal aid to low-income Detroiters facing evictions.

In a move that is unusual in Detroit politics, the mailing address for Sheffield's mayoral campaign committee is in Middleton, Wisconsin. Her treasurer is based in Detroit, but her designated record keeper is Peter Bailon of UpRising Strategies in Mazomanie, Wisconsin. Bailon did not return a voicemail message. UpRising's website said its partners have more than 30 years experience working at state and local levels.

"We have in depth understanding of the nuances of state and local work through time in Governors offices, and working with legislators, working for Presidents and presidential campaigns, as well as Government agencies. Our team also has a proven history of building and growing successful local and national organizations from the ground up," the website says.

The website does not list any of UpRising's clients.

Duggan told the Free Press earlier this month: "So next year, I'm going to decide whether to run for reelection as mayor. That's the first decision and then after that, Ill decide what else I'm doing. But the decision on mayor has to come first."

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.

Dana Afana is the Detroit city hall reporter for the Free Press. Contact her: dafana@freepress.com or 313-635-3491. Follow her on Twitter: @DanaAfana.

This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Detroit Council President Mary Sheffield launches mayoral bid
LAFAYETTE, Ind.  A medical helicopter airlifted 29-year-old Hanna Long of Delphi from the crash site at Indiana 26 and Tippecanoe County Road 775 East after a head-on crash, according to the sheriff's office.

Long was flown to IU Health Methodist Hospital in Indianapolis with multiple leg fractures, according to the Tippecanoe County Sheriff's Office. She was in serious but stable condition on Tuesday morning.

She was westbound on Indiana 26 in her Honda Pilot about 12:40 p.m. Monday when an eastbound Dodge pickup truck driven by Ranferi Zetina Cruz, 37, of Lafayette attempted to turn north onto County Road 775 East, according to the sheriff's office.

Cruz turned in front of Long, and the two vehicles hit head on, according to the sheriff's office.

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Cruz was treated at a Lafayette hospital after the crash and later released, according to the sheriff's office. He was, however, arrested on suspicion of driving without a license.

The intersection was closed for several hours while investigators reconstructed the accident, according to the sheriff's office.

Reach Ron Wilkins at rwilkins@jconline.com. Follow on Twitter: @RonWilkins2.

This article originally appeared on Lafayette Journal & Courier: Delphi woman airlifted from crash scene in eastern Tippecanoe County
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis is scrapping two campaign fundraisers in South Florida as the state braces for a major hurricane to make landfall on the Gulf Coast this week, according to two people familiar with the plans.

DeSantis was originally scheduled to appear at a breakfast event in Weston on Tuesday, as well as a cocktail-hour fundraiser in Miami later in the day, where he was expected to begin accepting campaign contributions in cryptocurrency.

Both appearances were canceled on Monday as DeSantis and his administration prepared to respond to Tropical Storm Idalia, which is expected to become a major hurricane before it makes landfall along Floridas Gulf Coast this week.

A spokesperson for DeSantis campaign confirmed the cancellations to the Miami Herald.

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In the face of the impending major hurricane, Ron DeSantis is focused on leading his state through this challenging moment, Bryan Griffin, the press secretary for DeSantis campaign, said.

Hes now at the helm of Floridas hurricane response and is working with local officials across the state to do everything necessary to ensure Florida is fully prepared. This is the strong leadership in times of crisis that Americans can expect from a President DeSantis.

The National Hurricane Centers latest forecast on Monday morning showed Tropical Storm Idalia strengthening rapidly as it moves through the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico. The most recent projections call for the storm to hit somewhere along Floridas Big Bend as a Category 3 hurricane late Tuesday or early Wednesday.

DeSantis has already declared a state of emergency and mobilized the Florida National Guard. He spoke with President Joe Biden on Monday about the hurricane and disaster relief efforts, according to the White House.

The fundraiser cancellations mark the second instance this week that DeSantis has scrapped planned campaign appearances to deal with challenges at home.

He was set to attend Rep. Jeff Duncans Faith & Freedom BBQ in South Carolina Monday evening, but canceled those plans on Sunday. His wife, First Lady Casey DeSantis , will attend the barbeque in his place.

The fundraiser in Miami, which was first reported last week by Politico, was expected to be particularly noteworthy for DeSantis, marking his campaigns foray into the world of cryptocurrency donations. Other 2024 presidential candidates, including Miami Mayor Francis Suarez and entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy, have already begun accepting campaign contributions in cryptocurrency.
LARGO  Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis called for residents along Floridas Gulf Coast to be ready for Tropical Storm Idalia in the days before it makes landfall, likely as a major hurricane.

Even areas outside the storms likely path could experience catastrophic damage, DeSantis said during a news conference Monday afternoon at Pinellas Countys emergency operations center. Residents need to heed evacuation orders where theyre issued, he said, including in Pinellas County, where 338,000 people have been told to evacuate.

Even if the storm is off the coast here in the Tampa Bay area, youre still going to see significant impact from the surge, he said.

Flanked by state and local officials and lawmakers, DeSantis detailed the states preparation ahead of Idalia, which include positioning as many as 40,000 utility repair workers utilities in the wake of the storm, as well as preparing search-and-rescue teams.

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Though many models continue to project a landfall in Floridas Big Bend region, Pinellas County Emergency Management Director Cathie Perkins said residents need to take a lesson from Hurricane Ian, which devastated southwest Florida after a late turn last year.

This is going to be a Category 3, a major storm, right off the coast of Pinellas County, she said. We saw what happened last year: It just takes a little shift in that trajectory of that storm and then it could be coming here.

DeSantis and Perkins both emphasized that evacuees dont need to go far  they can seek higher ground a few miles away, even within their own counties. The counties will open shelters, but Perkins urged those who can stay with family or friends to do so.

Perkins asked that residents check in on neighbors who may need assistance as part of their hurricane plans. State Attorney General Ashley Moody said she hoped those who have moved to Florida during the states recent population boom are also convinced to take the storm seriously.

Warn your neighbors, your friends who are new to our state about how important it is to evacuate and how dangerous it is not to heed the warnings or prepare, she said.

  

Tampa Bay Times hurricane coverage 2023

What to know about forecast tracks as Idalia looms over Florida

Idalia could rapidly intensify. How and why?

Hurricane season 2023 is near. Heres what to know about forecast tracks.

How to protect your pets  and yourself  during a hurricane.

Checklists for building all kinds of storm kits

Protect your data and documents using your phone

Protect your home and business before the storm

7 lessons for the 2023 hurricane season from Hurricane Ian.
A mother and her 2-year-old daughter were close, but not quite. The pair was seated across the aisle from each other despite American Airlines policy guaranteeing all families will sit together for free on all its flights.

To avoid having her toddler sitting next to a stranger on her flight on Aug. 17, passenger Sara Kloek was told to pay extra for upgraded seats or have the flight attendants work it out at the airport.

A few months prior, Kloek booked tickets for her, her husband and their young daughter on an American Airlines flight from Washington, D.C., to Minnesota to visit her family. During booking, there werent any free seats next to each other left, only upgraded Main Cabin Extra seats for purchase.

She figured it wasnt necessary to pay extra for seats because she had seen Americans announcement in March that it was the first airline to guarantee children under the age of 14 and an accompanying adult would be seated together without a fee.

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American Airlines lets families sit together at no additional cost, the airline said in a statement in February and on Wednesday in response to Kloeks incident. We are proud to offer industry leading, customer-friendly policies that ensure a positive travel experience for families traveling together. Our current policies allow families to sit together without having to pay more, and we are pleased to update our Customer Service Plan to provide additional clarity to families traveling with us.

Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg even praised the airline on Twitter in February.

Oh, thats great, that seems to be a pro-family sort of thing, Kloek told USA TODAY she imagined the process would go. This isnt going to be a big deal, theyll just put me by her or my husband by her.

More: Wheelchair damage has traveler worried about future flights: 'What are they going to do?'

"It doesn't seem right," says Kathleen Crowley, a frequent flyer and fashion designer who lives in Jackson Hole, Wyoming. She recently booked a "basic" economy class seat on American Airlines, and it came without the ability to reserve a seat. "When I buy a plane ticket, am I not buying a seat on that plane?" she asks.

The day before departure, she noticed AA had finally assigned the family seats: Kloek and her daughter were given two seats across the aisle from each other, and her husband was seven rows behind them. I saw the aisle seats and decided thats going to be a problem.

Not only did Kloek not want her child next to someone else but her daughter also flies in a car seat. By American Airlines policy, a car seat should only be used in a window seat for safety reasons. If an unoccupied, adjoining seat is not available, the gate agent will check the safety seat to your final destination, the airlines website reads.

Kloek reached out to the airline via its app chat function the day before her flight but was told she could pay $61 each for two Main Cabin extra seats together or let our flight attendants take care of this matter, according to chat screenshots provided by Kloek.

I didnt think that was in the spirit of what those commitments were, Kloek said.

In the chat, the airline told her the standard free seats are already assigned to other passengers, and the power to reassign is with the airport and flight attendant.

The best bet was that passengers dont proceed with the flight, which would clear up seats.

I wouldnt have known if I waited until I got to the airport and I dont want to chance it if Im traveling with a 2-year-old, she said, adding that it also felt like a burden to put on the flight attendants.

She tweeted a picture of the seat map to American Airlines on Wednesday and the airline privately messaged her to tell her they reassigned her and her daughter to adjacent window and aisle seats.

It felt like the effort was on me as a passenger, she said.

How to ensure your family is seated together

An American Airlines spokesperson told USA TODAY that the automatic booking process seats families next together and its unlikely for it to not happen. Typically, the last row or two on the plane are reserved so families can be seated together.

On the airlines website, it says that the family seating guarantee has to meet certain conditions, such as adjacent seats are available in the same class of service your child is ticketed at the time of booking, which wasnt the case during Kloeks booking.

If these conditions arent met, we will still try to seat children adjacent to an accompanying adult, AAs website reads.

According to the airline, here are a few recommendations to do during booking so that your family is seated together:

Book as early as possible so there are more available free seats.

Skip seat assignments when booking and AAs system will detect that youre a family flying together and assign your seats together a few days after booking.

If you do book through separate reservations, call AAs Reservations line so they can handle the seat assignments.

Kathleen Wong is a travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Hawaii. You can reach her at kwong@usatoday.com

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: American Airlines told mother to pay extra to sit next to toddler
GOP presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy raps to Eminem's 'Lose Yourself' at Gov. Kim Reynolds' Fair-Side Chat at the Iowa State Fair on Aug. 12, 2023.

Republican presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy may be a fan of famed rapper Eminem, but the feeling, it appears, is not mutual.

The Daily Mail reported Monday that the rapper has objected to Ramaswamy, a biotech entrepreneur who lives in Upper Arlington near Columbus, using his music on the campaign trail. Ramaswamy grew up in the Cincinnati suburb of Evendale and attended Princeton Junior High and St. Xavier High School.

Ramaswamy went viral earlier this month after he rapped Eminem's 2002 hit "Lose Yourself," his favorite campaign walk-out song, at the Iowa State Fair during an appearance with Gov. Kim Reynolds.

Music licenser BMI sent a letter to a Ramaswamy campaign lawyer that says Eminem's works are no longer part of a music licensing agreement following a request from Eminem, according to Daily Mail.

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GOP presidential debate: Trump declares Ohioan Vivek Ramaswamy the winner for singing his praises

"Vivek just got on the stage and cut loose. To the American peoples chagrin, we will have to leave the rapping to the real Slim Shady, Ramaswamy campaign spokesperson Tricia McLaughlin said.

Ramaswamy has risen in national polling for the 2024 Republican presidential primaries in recent weeks, with a current average of about 10.1%, according to FiveThirtyEight.

Former President Donald Trump still dominates in polls, followed by Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis and Ramaswamy.

In Iowa, Ramaswamy polled at 4% in a recent Des Moines Register/NBC News/Mediacom poll, behind six other candidates.

He barnstormed the state in recent weeks following a high-profile appearance at the first Republican primary debate in Milwaukee last week.

Chris Higgins covers the eastern suburbs for the Reg

This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Vivek Ramaswamy raps 'Lose Yourself', but Eminem objects
90 Day Fiance's Shekinah Introduces Her Makeup-Loving Man Sarper Who 'Had Me at Highlighter' (Exclusive)

In PEOPLE's exclusive sneak peek at Monday's '90 Day Fiance: The Other Way', Shekinah is set to move from L.A. to Turkey for her fitness model boyfriend Sarper after only a week together in person

Theres another couple entering the 90 Day Fiance universe, and it just might be too good to be true.

PEOPLEs exclusive sneak peek at Mondays 90 Day Fiance: The Other Way introduces Shekinah, an American woman who is packing her bags to meet love Sarper in Istanbul. Though the two are currently in a long-distance relationship, theyve already met  and had a few unforgettable dates.

I went to Turkey last year with a girlfriend. I downloaded a dating app to see what Turkish men are like, Shekinah says. The first date with Sarper  a model and trainer  was a dream. Shekinah even noticed he put a little extra effort into his appearance as a way to woo her.

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You know how people usually say 'You had me at hello?' Sarper had me at highlighter, she quips. He was wearing highlighter on our first date. And I noticed it down the bridge of his nose, and I was like, This man is wearing makeup. Hes wearing makeup on a date with me. That is so cute!

TLC

Related: 90 Day: Widowed Single Mom Amanda Gets Lost in a 'Whirlwind of Emotions' After Meeting TikTok Stripper Razvan

Complicating the lovers' magnetic pull to one another, Shekinah still has a life in America, including friends and career as an aesthetician. But that didn't stopped her from traveling to Turkey just two months after her first rendezvous with Sarper to spend a week nurturing their connection.



He is just everything that Ive looked for," she says. "Hes sweet, hes thoughtful, hes really caring, and our sex life is just, like out of this world. Its insane.



TLC

Now, the couple is taking an even bigger step as Shekinah moves across the world to pursue their relationship.

My attraction and connection with Sarper is so strong that Im willing to leave this entire life that Ive built in Los Angeles to go and be with him, she said.

But as 90 Day fans know, theres always a catch  what that is for Shekinah and Sarper remains to be seen.



Never miss a story  sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from juicy celebrity news to compelling human interest stories.

90 Day Fiance: Before the 90 Days airs on Sundays at 8 pm ET on TLC.



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Read the original article on People.


Since becoming the newest monarch of the United Kingdom back in September 2022, and then more officially in May in his coronation, King Charles III has been clear about his desires to modernize and slim down the monarchy. And though change in the British royal family wont happen overnight, after all this is an establishment with decades and decades of history, it looks like hes not letting tradition stop him from some bold moves.



Most recently, Daily Mail confirmed Charles plans to perform massive lay-offs in the staff of the familys Royal Households, including Buckingham Palace, Sandringham, Windsor Castle and Balmoral. Per the outlet, Charles reportedly plans to fire one in five of his middle-management staff. Talk about a drastic move!

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According to the outlet, Charles decision wasnt taken lightly and is merely a reaction to many staffers having the same or similar jobs. In addition to that, the Mail reports Charles is acutely conscious of the financial burden a vast household places on the taxpayer. And, of course, the fewer people the royals have to employ, the less taxpayer money they use.

King Charles III is reportedly set to meet his estranged son, Prince Harry, for 'peace talks.' https://t.co/X288hxOtF4  SheKnows (@SheKnows) August 21, 2023



There is a real feeling that the staffing at all the palaces is too heavy, one source told the outlet. There are far too many assistants to assistants. The King and Queen [Camilla] would prefer to pay people proper wages top to bottom but have less people. Seems reasonable, right?

Click here to read the full article.



And, according to the sources, the staff problem isnt only at the assistant level. For instance, there are chefs for them and chefs for the staff. Why, they ask, cant there be one lot of kitchen staff for everyone? the source added.



In addition to Charles, it seems like his wife Camilla also feels strongly about the staff cut. Her Majesty cannot abide too many people doing the same jobs, the source added.



Charles and Camillas upcoming move, therefore, is a step in the right direction in their mission to streamline the royals. Of course, the move comes after the royals themselves were streamlined to make for one tight-knit team. Currently, the senior working roles are the King and Queen, the Prince and Princess of Wales, Princess Anne, Prince Edward and his wife Sophie, Countess of Wessex. And, from the looks of it, Charles is planning to keep it that way.

Before you go, click here to see all the best pictures from King Charles IIIs coronation.



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Stewart is traveling around Iceland and Greenland

Martha Stewarts followers got a little heated about how she chilled her drink.

While on a Swan Hellenic cruise traveling from Iceland to Greenland, Stewart revealed that "we actually captured a small iceberg for our cocktails tonight, she wrote on Instagram.

In a collection of several photos, Stewart shared images of an expedition guests took to check out glaciers. Some shots show the icebergs in their natural state and others show chunks of ice on a bar cart, ready to be made into cocktails. Stewart also posed for a picture enjoying her beverage.



End of the first zodiac cruise from @swanhelleniccruises into a very beautiful fjord on the east coast of greenland, Stewart wrote in the caption. We actually captured a small iceberg for our cocktails tonight.

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Soon after posting, fans were quick to comment on the unusual ingredient. One follower said "drinking their iceberg cocktails while the planet is in flames is a bit tone deaf." Another said, Martha the ice caps are melting dont put them in your drink.

A representative for Swan Hellenic did not immediately respond to PEOPLE's request for comment. The company notes on their website that they adhere to "sustainability policies" required by local authorities where they travel.

Stewart also posted from the Sky Lagoon in Iceland and gave a brief review of the "small but spacious" expedition ship that took her from Iceland to Greenland.

"We are spending six days learning about the largest island in the world!!!! Population about 56,000. 75 percent indigenous peoples." she wrote. "Food is delicious! Crew is very friendly and knowledgeable!

Stewart spoke to PEOPLE last week before leaving for her trip. When asked if she has any plans to post a thirst trap before the summer ends, the recent Sports Illustrated cover star played coy.

Martha Stewart/Instagram Martha Stewart shares pictures from a cruise in Greenland.

Related: Martha Stewart Shares Her Etiquette Tips for Eating Out and Traveling: 'I Never Leave Messes' (Exclusive)

"Who knows?" she said. "I'm leaving in a couple of hours to go to Greenland, so I doubt I'm going to be doing any thirst traps there. But, you never can tell."

"Maybe there'll be a polar bear in the background," she added with a laugh.

For more People news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter!

Read the original article on People.


If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, SheKnows may receive an affiliate commission.



There is so much news swirling around Donald Trump , from his legal woes to his 2024 presidential campaign. What might be the most intriguing aspect of the entire situation is how little voters have seen of Melania Trump after her husbands four indictments in the last five months. However, her public silence probably shouldnt be measured as a sign of indifference.

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Sources close to the former first lady spoke to People about how she really feels about Donald Trumps trouble with the law. Chalking it up to election interference by his political rivals, Melania is pretty closely aligned with her husbands beliefs and understands why he chose his villainous pose for his mugshot. Melania hates all of the legal problems but understands how her husband uses adversity to his advantage, the insider explained. She knows the mug shot is sending both a f**k you message to his enemies as well as a kiss to his flock.

Donald Trump wants to win at any cost. https://t.co/mBdya5vwrR  SheKnows (@SheKnows) August 28, 2023



She has no problem with Donald Trump being the center of attention whether the subject is good or bad because he has been this way since the day she met him. She deplores the indictments and finds the criminal charges embarrassing, but thats not stopping Melania from living her life, which means focusing on her son, Barron, 17, as he enters his senior year of high school in Palm Beach, Florida.

Blowback: A Warning to Save Democracy from the Next Trump

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Remember Melania is a mom with a not-yet-adult son to protect, the source continued. A mug shot that everyone is talking about is just one more issue to wade through. So, political watchers shouldnt expect her to make any comment now  or ever  about the former presidents legal issues. Even though they lead very different lives, the couple seems to be aligned in their belief that this is nothing more than a witch hunt.

Before you go, click here to see quotes that prove Melania Trump is a lot like her husband.

Melania Trump Donald Trump Quotes

Launch Gallery: 14 Bizarre Rumors About Donald & Melania Trump's Marriage From Bedroom Rules to Divorce Plans

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(Bloomberg) -- Chinas top-selling auto brand withstood the price war raging in the country this year, with BYD Co. posting second-quarter profit that surged 145% and sending its shares climbing.

Most Read from Bloomberg

Net income more than doubled to 6.8 billion yuan ($930 million) after the company sold a record number of plug-in hybrid and fully electric vehicles during the three months ended in June. While fierce competition in China led to the slowest revenue growth in more than a year, BYD still generated 140 billion yuan in quarterly sales, according to Bloomberg calculations based on its first-half earnings.

The companys Hong Kong-listed shares climbed as much as 6.5%, the biggest intraday gain since the start of March.

Read More: Tesla Reignites EV Price War With New Round of Cuts in China

BYDs robust financial performance will help as it navigates another period of discounting in the worlds biggest auto market, where its preferred strategy is cutting prices on newly released models. Over the weekend, BYD unveiled a slightly cheaper range of 2023 Tang vehicles at the Chengdu Auto Show.

The Shenzhen-based companys strong sales has helped it maintain its lead over Volkswagen AG as Chinas best-selling car brand this year, after it leapfrogged the German auto giant in the first quarter.

BYD sold 700,000 clean cars during the second quarter, beating the previous high of 683,400 in the final three months of 2022. It notched 156.3 billion yuan in revenue during the earlier period and benefitted from a record gross margin of 19%. BYDs margin in the second quarter was 18.7%. Total passenger EV sales hit 1.5 million so far in 2023, through July.

Story continues

What Bloomberg Intelligence Says

Vehicle shipments appear on track to meet managements target of 3 million units this year, and possibly surpass consensus expectations for 3.5 million next year, powered by strong domestic demand and rising exports. Better economies of scale and a deep vertical integration help offset pricing pressure, contributing to margin stability.

 Joanna Chen and Steve Man, BI auto analysts

Click here to read the research.

BYDs performance was exceptional considering the sector-wide price war, Chinas weakening economy and EV subsidy changes, Citigroups Jeff Chung wrote in a post-earnings research note.

Known for selling affordable cars to the masses, the automaker has made progress in broadening its appeal. The company added two luxury EV brands, Yangwang and Fang Cheng Bao, that allowed it to penetrate the 1 million-yuan price category, more than double some of its earlier higher-end vehicles. It also pushed two cheaper models, the Seagull and Dolphin, to undercut its peers.

Read More: BYD Jumps as New Model Launches Seen to Boost Premiumization

Since BYD has offerings across almost all segments and price-points, BYD as a whole has been net-impervious to price cuts, said Jack Shea, chief financial officer at Shenzhen-based hedge fund Snow Bull Capital Inc., which has invested in both BYD and Tesla.

While BYD has a seemingly unassailable lead in the market, weaker foreign rivals and smaller Chinese EV players are making moves to boost their capabilities, especially in the so-called smart EV and autonomous-driving space.

Read More: Chinas BYD Is Taking On the World EV MarketExcept in America

Xpeng Inc. snapped up Didi Global Inc.s smart car business Monday in a $744 million deal. Xpengs appeal in the intelligent vehicle space also won it a $700 million investment in July from Volkswagen, which is seeking to turn around its fortunes in the rapidly changing China auto market.

--With assistance from Charlotte Yang.

(Adds chart, analyst reaction, more context from 5th paragraph)

Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek

2023 Bloomberg L.P.
roundworm-womans-brain-australia - Credit: SCIEPRO/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY

In January 2021, a 64-year-old woman from New South Wales, Australia went to a local hospital for abdominal pain, diarrhea, dry cough, fever, and night sweats.

Her symptoms worsened, and by 2022 included forgetfulness and depression. After a scan of her brain revealed abnormal lesions, she underwent surgery. According to the Guardian, this is when the staff at Canberra hospital made a shocking discovery.

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While operating on the woman, neurosurgeon Dr. Hari Priya Bandi pulled out an 8cm-long parasitic roundworm, called colleague physician Dr Sanjaya Senanayake, and exclaimed: Oh my god, you wouldnt believe what I just found in this ladys brain  and its alive and wriggling.

The team at the hospital sent the still-very-much-alive worm to the laboratory of a Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) scientist. The parasitic worm was identified as a third-stage larva of Ophidascaris robertsi, according to the case study published in the September issue of journal Emerging Infectious Diseases by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

This type of worm is usually found in carpet pythons, which happened to live near the lake area of the patients home. The doctors hypothesized that the woman had inadvertently eaten O. robertsi eggs either directly from the vegetation or indirectly by contamination of her hands or kitchen equipment.

After the worm was removed from her brain, the woman was given medication to address potential larvae that could still be living in other organs. The patients case marks the first time the parasite was found in humans, per the Guardian.

The patient is in recovery and being monitored, according to Senanayake. Researchers are looking into whether a preexisting medical condition caused the woman to be immunocompromised and could have enabled the parasite to migrate into her central nervous system.

That poor patient, she was so courageous and wonderful, Senanayake told the outlet. You dont want to be the first patient in the world with a roundworm found in pythons and we really take our hats off to her. Shes been wonderful.

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Click here to read the full article.
A former prosecutor says Mark Meadows made an incredibly risky gambit when he took the witness stand in Atlanta on Monday in a bid to move his Georgia election interference case from state to federal court.

Most criminal defendants would not testify under oath about the actual facts of the case in an evidentiary hearing that has nothing to do, really, with your actual trial, CNN legal analyst Karen Friedman Agnifilo said during a panel discussion Monday.

He hasnt seen the evidence yet. He hasnt sat through the whole trial. If he were going to testify at his trial, it would be after he saw the governments entire case. He doesnt ever have to testify, but he put all his cards on the table, she said.

Friedman Agnifilo, the former chief assistant district attorney of the Manhattan District Attorneys Office, said Meadows approach was like a Hail Mary.

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Hes putting all eggs in this basket trying to get the case removed to federal court, she added.

Meadows, Donald Trump s former White House chief of staff, was charged along with the former president and 17 others earlier this month in a vast racketeering case brought by Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis.

The indictment alleges that Trump, Meadows and others were part of a wide-ranging conspiracy to help the former president illegally cling to power after losing the 2020 election.

Meadows faces two felony charges: racketeering and solicitation of a violation of oath by a public officer.

His attorneys argue that he acted in his capacity as a federal official and did nothing criminal. They have also filed a motion in federal court to have the case dismissed, which would be heard if the case is successfully removed from state court to the federal level.

Meadows testified for hours on Monday in a federal courtroom in Atlanta, addressing specific meetings and phone calls described in the indictment and insisting they were part of his duties as a federal official.

U.S. District Judge Steve Jones has not yet issued a decision.

Several other defendants in the Georgia indictment are seeking to make the same jump to federal court, including former Justice Department official Jeffrey Clark, and fake electors David Shafer, a former state GOP chair; Shawn Still, a Georgia state senator; and Cathleen Latham, a local GOP official.

Related...
Georgia Powers plans for disposing of toxic industrial waste at a handful of coal plants across the state have been the subject of a years-long controversy.

Critics of the utilitys plans have long hoped the Environmental Protection Agency will intervene to require that Georgia Power change its plans to comply with a federal rule barring permanent storage of coal ash  a byproduct of the coal power process  in contact with groundwater, where it could contaminate drinking water with toxic heavy metals.

Earlier this month, the EPA announced a proposed decision to bar Alabama from permitting the same type of coal ash storage, known as closure in place, that Georgia Power intends to pursue at the controversial sites, which include Monroe Countys Plant Scherer.

In light of similarities between the neighboring states coal ash programs, and their utilities common corporate parent in the Southern Company, some in Georgias environmental community hope the decision in Alabama portends similar federal intervention in Georgia.

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Andrea Goolsby, a resident of Juliette  the community home to Plant Scherer where residents have sued Georgia Power and linked contaminated drinking wells and cancer cases to the coal ash pond  told the Telegraph, It does give me a lot of hope for us in Georgia. I just hope that its an example for our leaders here in Georgia to do the right thing.

But a key bureaucratic difference may explain why the EPA has not yet taken similar action in Georgia.

Alabama wants what Georgia has: its own permit program

In 2015, the EPA issued a landmark rule governing the proper disposal of coal ash. Since then, in most of the country, newly decommissioned coal plants must seek approval from the EPA.

But three states  Georgia, Texas, and Oklahoma  have sought and received permission for their state environmental agencies (in Georgias case, the Environmental Protection Division) to administer their own permit programs for coal ash disposal.

This delegated authority was granted to the EPD on the condition that its standards were at least as environmentally protective as the federal rule.

Alabama is seeking to be the fourth state to administer its own coal ash permitting program. The EPAs proposed decision would reject its application on the basis of the fact that, while seeking delegating permitting authority, Alabamas Department of Environmental Management (the equivalent to Georgias EPD) had already issued a permit for closure in place.

A spokesperson for EPD said in an email that the agency originally applied for delegated permitting authority because the federal government has long recognized that states are in the best position to craft effective approaches to carry out the requirements of environmental regulations.

At the controversial coal ash ponds in question  at Georgias Plant Hammond, Plant Scherer, Plant Yates, and Plant McDonough  only one draft permit for closure-in-place has yet been issued, for Plant Hammond.

The EPD told the Telegraph it anticipates the completion of the review of Georgia Powers applications for closure at the other sites in the 2024 calendar year, but noted that this timeline may change if the utility modifies its proposals.

I havent been able to really look at the coal ash decision in Alabama, but I will look at it. Were still moving forward with our program. It is approved, said Jeff Cown, who last week became the new director of the EPD.

The state permitting program employs a staff of three engineers and two geologists, EPD said. In 2024, these positions will be partially funded by $411,000 from the EPA; the remainder of their salaries is paid out of the state budget.

Why the delay?

The proposed action in Alabama is not the first EPA decision in another state that environmental advocates have hoped would set a precedent against Georgias plans. Under the Biden administration, the EPA has stepped up enforcement of the coal ash regulations, most notably at a coal plant in Ohio last year.

EPD was officially notified of the divergence between its plans and the EPAs interpretation of the rule in January, 2022, when the federal agency sent EPD a letter requesting that it review the closure plans at Plant Hammond, where a draft permit had been issued, in line with what was then the EPAs proposed rejection of the Ohio coal plants plans.

In the year-and-a-half since this letter was sent, the status of Georgias closure-in-place plans has been essentially frozen, with advocates awaiting new permits or a federal action denying the states permitting program.

Some advocates believe the state is dragging its feet in order to wait for the election of a Republican president and more lax enforcement of the rule.

They think that they can do the improper illegal work, then wait for a new presidential administration, said Fletcher Sams, director of the Altamaha Riverkeeper, citing reporting by the Telegraph in which a member of the Public Service Commission, which approved the closure-in-place plans, said the EPAs position on coal ash could change if President Biden doesnt win reelection.

Georgias dispute with a dictionary definition

Emails between the EPA and EPD obtained via public records request show that the state agency seemed to be caught off guard by the federal decision.

In an email sent the day after the EPAs letter, EPDs then-director Rick Dunn (now director of Georgias Office of Planning and Budget) wrote to Carolyn Hoskinson, an EPA official, that the federal agency had long been aware of how EPD reads the language of the coal ash rule.

Up until this week, it had been our understanding that EPA shared similar views, Dunn said in the email.

Part of the difference of opinion between the two agencies centers on the definition of the word infiltration.

As an investigation by ProPublica later revealed, Georgia Power had heavily lobbied EPD to consider the word infiltration, as used in the language of the 2015 rule, to refer only to rainwater seeping into coal ash from above, and not to the intrusion of groundwater from the water table below.

This interpretation allows the utility to justify storage of coal ash without a liner below it to protect nearby water bodies from contamination, as long as a cap is in place above the ash to protect it from rainwater.

The dispute resurfaced in the emails obtained by the Telegraph, in which the EPD appeared to acknowledge its use of the word infiltration differed from the meaning commonly understood.

On February 10, 2022, the EPDs director of legal services, Laura Williams, asked an EPA official for documents setting out EPAs rationale in applying the dictionary definition of infiltration rather than treating it as a term of art.

Frank Holleman, an attorney at the Southern Environmental Law Center, said coal ash is like kitchen garbage in that it must legally be disposed of in a landfill; you cant dig a hole next to a river and bury it there.

All were asking is to put it in a landfill with every other piece of trash in America, Holleman said.
The first of former President Trumps co-defendants in the Georgia election case entered a not guilty plea Monday.

Ray Smith, a Georgia-based attorney who worked for Trump, waived his arraignment and entered the plea in writing, court filings show.

Trump and his other co-defendants are all set to be arraigned in person Sept. 6, though more could follow Smiths lead. The judge has already approved cameras in the courtroom, enabling the proceedings to be televised.

Smiths filing Monday would allow him to avoid entering his plea in front of the cameras.

It is counsels understanding that by filing this waiver of arraignment, prior to the arraignment date, that Mr. Smith and undersigned counsel are executed from appearing at the arraignment calendar on September 6, 2023, Smiths attorney wrote.

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He currently faces 12 counts in the indictment, including a racketeering charge.

Many of the counts correspond to Smiths participation in multiple Georgia legislative hearings, at which Trumps attorneys attempted to convince state lawmakers of their baseless claims of mass election fraud.

Smith spoke to lawmakers himself and questioned some of the Trump teams witnesses. He faces three counts of soliciting a public officer to violate their oath and two counts of making false statements in connection with the hearings.

He also faces six counts in regard to the scheme to submit a false slate of electors, including counts of forgery, two false statement charges and multiple conspiracy counts.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Guess who's back, back again? Not that it ever really left us.

COVID-19, the disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, is on the upswing yet again across the U.S. and in Michigan, where the first U.S. case of a new variant, BA.2.86, was identified earlier this month at the University of Michigan's lab.

While COVID-19 hospitalizations have grown in the past month, the total number is a small fraction of the illnesses during surges.

BA.2.86 has more than 30 new mutations and currently is classified a sublineage of the omicron strain, but has been nicknamed "Pirola" by some scientists. Cases also have been confirmed in Virginia and Ohio, as well as Denmark, the U.K., South Africa and Israel, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Ohio Department of Health.

How serious is the BA.2.86 variant?

The CDC issued a risk assessment last week, explaining that scientists are working to understand more about what those mutations mean for transmissibility of the virus, severity of disease and whether the new coronavirus vaccine booster, expected to be greenlighted by federal regulators in September, will be effective in preventing severe illness and death from BA.2.86.

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"There is concern because there are a lot of mutations in this variant," said Aubree Gordon, associate professor of epidemiology and global public health at the University of Michigan.

The coronavirus COVID-19 new variant mutation.

"All of the risk assessments for this variant haven't been done yet ... but what we do know at this point is there are a lot of mutations and mutations in some key sites, which may indicate that this virus might be better at evading preexisting immunity than some of the prior variants.

"There's always the concern that there'll be enough immune evasion that you'll start to see people get sicker. That's obviously a big concern  or that we will just get a huge number of cases because more people are getting infected. And, of course, the more infections there are, usually the more severe cases there are."

Still, there remains too little information to draw many major conclusions, said Gordon, who also is the director of the Michigan Center for Infectious Disease Threats and Pandemic Preparedness.

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"We need more data," she said. "We really need to pay attention to this virus, but I think we're in a really different point than we were when omicron came in."

Emergency department staff at Trinity Health Livonia Hospital with their masks off after an announcement on April 13, 2023, that many Michigan health care systems would be relaxing mask requirements for employees, patients and visitors more than three years after the COVID-19 pandemic began.

In December 2021 and January 2022, when the original strain of the omicron variant first hit Michigan, a lot of people still had only vaccine-induced immunity to the novel coronavirus. But now, she said, many Michiganders have a broader level of immunity because they've been vaccinated and had a previous infection. They may also have been infected multiple times with different strains of the virus.

"That's going to give them more protection against any incoming variant than just having immunity against the original virus," Gordon said.

What do we know about Michigan's BA.2.86 case?

The first known case in Michigan was identified in an older adult from Washtenaw County who had mild symptoms and was not hospitalized, said Chelsea Wuth, a spokesperson for the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services.

"Based on the available evidence, it is not known yet what risks, if any, this may pose to the publics health beyond what has been seen with other currently circulating lineages," Wuth said. "We are working with the CDC, which is collaborating with domestic and international partners to gather more information. CDC has not made any changes to their guidance at this time.

"Public health agencies continue to investigate COVID-19 cases and test available specimens to understand the spread of COVID-19 in the population. The University of Michigan and the state of Michigan both sequence COVID-19 viruses to detect new variants, which is how this variant was identified."

No additional cases have been linked to this one, said Susan Ringler-Cerniglia, spokesperson for the Washtenaw County Health Department.

The BA.2.86 case was identified through routine surveillance, she said, and there is no known connection between the person who had the infection and the University of Michigan community.

"Because there were several detections of this variant worldwide at about the same time, it is likely circulating more broadly than we know," Ringler-Cerniglia said.

What's happening with COVID-19 case numbers, hospitalizations?

Michigan  like the rest of the country  is seeing a rise in COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations, though the variant that's causing the most infections right now doesn't appear to be BA.2.86 just yet.

Rather, about 15 different XBB sublineages of the omicron variant are causing about one-third of all known coronavirus infections in Michigan. In addition, cases caused by the EG.5 sublineage are growing in prevalence, making up about 21% of known cases as of Aug. 19, according to state health department data.

Wastewater surveillance shows a higher level of infection statewide, and the number of people hospitalized with COVID-19 in Michigan has more than doubled in the last month  jumping from 102 on July 24 to 237 as of Aug. 25, according to state data.

Hospital entrance screener and patient support technician Octave LeDuff, of Pontiac, takes a visitor's temperature at St. Joseph Mercy Oakland Hospital in Pontiac on Monday, Jan. 24, 2022, during an omicron surge.

Still, COVID-19 hospitalizations remain near historic lows for Michigan. By comparison, at the height of the initial omicron surge, about 4,500 people were hospitalized with the virus statewide as emergency departments were overwhelmed with sick patients, and businesses and schools shut down because so many workers and students were sick.

At the time, more than 100 Michiganders were dying every day from the disease. Last week, the state health department reported an average of one daily death from COVID-19.

'We will be seeing new variants all the time'

"We are moving into a place where COVID is more of an endemic disease, and we will be seeing new variants all the time," said Joseph Eisenberg, professor of epidemiology at the University of Michigan School of Public Health. "This is maybe the first endemic season that we are entering. The fall is when the flu kicks in, too, and people are watching very closely what these new variants are doing to get a sense of how bad the COVID season peak will be. Is it going to be like influenza, or how is it going to be different?"

The newly identified BA.2.86 sublineage probably is spreading more widely than testing has identified, he said, and likely is infecting people across Michigan and in other states as well.

"There's probably a fair amount of transmission," Eisenberg said. "It's circulating. And the question is, will it take off or will it not and if it takes off, how severe or virulent will it be? That's the other piece of it because we are going to see waves of lots of transmission. That's just part of life. We are not going to be eradicating COVID. So we want to be able to manage it the best we can, and we want to minimize the impact, minimize the number of severe cases and hospitalizations."

Because BA.2.86 is so different, will rapid tests and current treatments work on it?

Public health leaders believe the current rapid tests and PCR tests will continue to be effective.

However, Eisenberg said, no test is perfect.

"We've all experienced them not being that precise," he said. "We test negative two or three times and finally test positive. The thinking is that they'll be still somewhat useful, and there's no evidence to suggest they're not useful at this point.

The CDC reported last week that treatments like Paxlovid, Veklury and Lagevrio should remain effective against this variant, though monitoring is ongoing.

Will the new COVID-19 booster protect against latest strain?

A CDC subcommittee is to meet on Sept. 12 to consider whether to recommend that Americans should get the newly reformulated coronavirus vaccine booster. And if so, specifically which Americans?

The new booster is a monovalent vaccine, which means it was made to target one variant  the XXB omicron lineage of the virus. It's too soon to know how much protection it will offer against BA.2.86. At the very least, Eisienberg says he hopes it will blunt the severity of infections.

"For influenza, sometimes the vaccine is a good match, but sometimes the efficacy of the influenza vaccine is like 20-30%," he said. "Sometimes, if it's above 50%, people are pretty happy.

"The problem with the current way in which we're developing new vaccines is you're always playing a catch-up game. You're always behind the curve because you can't anticipate this new strain. So you may be lucky that the new strain is not that different from the strains you designed the new vaccine off of. But it just takes so long to develop the vaccine and (ensure all) the safety factors are in place that you're always going to be behind.

"Even if it's not effective in minimizing transmission, it can be effective in minimizing severity. Hopefully, people will get vaccinated and therefore have another layer of protection. Given the technology at this point, that's the best we can do."

Should you get a COVID-19 booster? Here's what you need to know in 2023

Should I go back to wearing a mask or taking other precautions now?

That's a very personal choice, Eisenberg said, adding that if you're a person who is especially vulnerable to COVID-19, "it's never too soon" to mask up in public places.

"You do want to be more careful if you have elderly parents or relatives that are more sensitive," he said.

It's also important to stay home if you're sick and if you must go out when you have respiratory symptoms, wear a mask to protect others, he said.

"It is more acceptable to do that," he said. "It wasn't acceptable to do that pre-COVID, and so that's that's a good thing. ... This is this is a wake-up call that infectious diseases are a part of our lives and we have to learn how to live with it, and manage it.

"We've spent billions and billions of dollars to try and eradicate polio and we're still not there yet. So the eradication game is just not a public health solution. I think we just have to realize that COVID is around and we have to do our best to mitigate it using all sorts of things like improving indoor air quality and ventilation and such.

"We want to invest in prevention and I think this vaccine is one piece of it."

Contact Kristen Shamus: kshamus@freepress.com. Subscribe to the Free Press.

This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: First US case of BA.2.86 COVID variant identified in Michigan lab
[Source]

Foxconn founder Terry Gou announced that he would run as an independent candidate in Taiwans 2024 presidential elections.

Gous bid: Gous independent entry into the January race comes after previous failed attempts to lead the opposition party, the Kuomintang KMT. Earlier this year, the 72-year-olds second bid to be the KMTs candidate was unsuccessful as the party chose Hou Yu-ih, the mayor of New Taipei City.

Taiwan seeks a new president to replace the outgoing leader, Tsai Ing-wen, who is ineligible to run again due to term limits. To formalize his candidacy, Guo must secure 290,000 voter signatures by Nov. 2. The elections take place during the increased tensions between Taipei and Beijing as China stages military exercises near the island to assert its sovereignty claims.

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Taiwan must not become Ukraine: At a press conference on Monday, Gou pledged to fix cross-strait relations, noting his plan to unite the opposition and ensure that the self-governed island will not become the next Ukraine. He criticized the current Democratic Progressive Party's (DPP) governance and expressed intentions to strengthen Taiwans economy, defense and foreign policy while avoiding conflicts with China.

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Under the rule of the DPP in the past seven years or so, internationally, they have led Taiwan towards the danger of war, Gou said, according to the South China Morning Post. Domestically, their policies are filled with mistakes and have been unable to resolve the problems of industrial development and improve peoples lives.

For the past few weeks, Gou has been touring Taiwan for rallies. In his pre-campaign events, Gou highlighted his main goals to get the DPP out of office and avoid war with China.

Give me four years and I promise that I will bring 50 years of peace to the Taiwan Strait and build the deepest foundation for the mutual trust across the strait, he said, according to Reuters. Taiwan must not become Ukraine and I will not let Taiwan become the next Ukraine.

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Poll results: According to a poll last week, the support for Lai Ching-te, the current vice-president and presidential nominee for the ruling DPP was at 43%, compared with 27% for Ko Wen-je, the former mayor of Taipei City and nominee for the Taiwan Peoples party, and just 14% for the KMTs Hou. Analysts suggest Gous candidacy might further divide the opposition vote, benefiting the DPP.

About Guo: Gou established the tech giant Foxconn in 1974 and opened its first plant in mainland China in 1988. The consumer electronics company is known for producing iPhones for Apple. It has a substantial workforce in China and is a major player in the tech manufacturing industry.

The net worth of Gou, who remains the largest shareholder of Foxconn, is estimated at nearly $7 billion. He stepped down as Foxconns chair in 2019 to participate in the KMT's presidential primary, where he came in second.

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When Foxconn announced its plans to open facilities in Wisconsin back in 2017, it promised to invest $10 billion into bringing production to the US that was expected to lead to as many as 13,000 jobs. Now, the Taiwanese supplier to tech giants like Apple is selling two properties in Eau Claire and Green Bay, purchased for almost $12 million in 2018. The property listings were first reported by Wisconsin Public Radio (via Gizmodo and The Verge), which revealed that only three floors of the Green Bay building's six floors are in use. Meanwhile, the portion Foxconn owns in a mixed-use property in Eau Claire has reportedly remained empty for years.

Foxconn originally said that it was going to build "innovation centers" in Wisconsin, including one that will serve as an LCD factory. The project was supposed to be massive enough to strike a $2.85 billion tax credit deal with the local government. At the time the project was announced, then President Donald Trump said that if he didn't get elected, Foxconn "wouldn't be spending $10 billion" on manufacturing in the US. The former president was also there when the project broke ground, equipped with a golden shovel.

In 2021, however, Foxconn massively altered the scale of the project and told the local government that it would be investing $672 million instead of $10 billion like it intended. It also reduced the number of potential jobs produced to 1,454 from 13,000 positions. The company said back then that its original projections "changed due to unanticipated market fluctuations" and that reducing the scale of its project in the US gives it the "flexibility to pursue business opportunities in response to changing global market conditions."

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Foxconn didn't comment on its Eau Claire property, but it told WPR that it "will add to the vibrancy of the city's downtown." Green Bay Mayor Eric Genrich posted on X that he hopes a sale "will lead to better utilization of a fantastic waterfront building."

This is a great property downtown. Hoping this potential transfer in ownership will lead to better utilization of a fantastic waterfront building. https://t.co/BHTScUNbzF  Eric Genrich (@MayorGenrich) August 15, 2023
HAMPTON  A new cell tower is being proposed on Barbour Road to improve service for the northern section of town, but some residents are concerned about property values and adverse health effects.

Vertex Towers, LLC, which has built towers around the state, is looking to build a 156-foot monopole tower at 17R Barbour Road. It filed for approval with the town Planning Board, as well as the Zoning Board, seeking height and use variances.

The tower is proposed in the Residence A zoning district, where structures are not permitted higher than 35 feet. Cell towers are also only permitted in certain parts of town that do not include the site where Vertex is proposing to build.

Vertex Towers is seeking variances from the towns zoning to build a 150-foot-tall monopole-style cell tower with a six-foot lightning rod on Barbour Road.

Vertexs representative, attorney Francis Parisi, said the company has been looking at the site on Barbour Road for several years. He said it is part of a two-site solution to gaps in coverage east of Route 1 where wireless coverage is severely lacking.

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Town officials say the service is lacking. Hampton Fire Chief Mike McMahon said firefighters sometimes rely on phone calls during an emergency response. He said a call is always made to the hospital when an ambulance is en route from a scene. Firefighters sometimes also call physicians for advice.

If you lose the call, sometimes that care can become delayed, McMahon said.

Residents who live nearby say they fear the cell tower will be built without their concerns taken seriously. Several appeared Wednesday, Aug. 23, at a meeting between Vertex and the Plan Review Committee, where department heads gave feedback on the project. The neighbors will have a chance to speak in public hearings later this fall when the project goes to the Planning Board.

Were concerned about our property values going down 8%, said Eileen Stepien, who lives on Barbour Road. Were all concerned that they dont want to hear us.

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Vertex: Federal law trumps Hamptons cell tower ordinance

Vertex Towers, based in Sharon, Massachusetts, has built towers in communities around New England. The towers are rented to tenant cell service providers like Verizon and AT&T. Parisi said Dish Network is also interested in using the tower.

The height of the tower is the minimum height for providing service, according to Vertexs proposal submitted to the Planning Board. The proposed tower is 150 feet with its highest appurtenance reaching an additional six feet. The company says there is no other structure of sufficient height anywhere near the property that would provide requisite telecommunications coverage.

The Barbour Road property is 23 acres of undeveloped land, which Parisi said gives significant space for separation from abutters. He said a balloon test could be conducted this year to demonstrate the visibility of the tower with notice given to abutters who want to see it.

Everyone assumes that 150 feet is tall, Parisi said. Its really not.

In Wednesdays PRC meeting, Vertex representatives took questions from the towns fire, public works, and building departments as well as the town conservation coordinator and Until. They were told Vertex could be placed on the Planning Boards Oct. 4 meeting provided they respond to questions from public works related to stormwater.

Vertex Towers is seeking variances from the towns zoning to build a 150-foot-tall monopole-style cell tower with a six-foot lightning rod on Barbour Road.

Town Planner Jason Bachand said Vertex should expect to complete the ZBA before going before the Planning Board. He said the Planning Board rarely gives conditional approval to projects that have not recieved variances yet. Parisi said Vertex preferred to go through both processes at the same time.

Bachand also noted that cell towers are not permitted in that zone. Hamptons telecommunications facilities ordinance only permits towers built in a district that is 350 feet west and east from the centerline of Interstate 95.

The ordinance states the ZBA may grant a special exception for towers on town property or for retrofitting an existing structure greater than 80 feet. The Barbour Road property is privately-owned, and the tower would be new construction.

Parisi has said that federal law supersedes local ordinances that prohibit the construction of cell towers in places where service is lacking, per the Telecommunications Act of 1996. In York, Maine, Vertex filed a federal lawsuit when the York Board of Appeals rejected their request for a variance, and the Planning Board declined to hear their application.

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Neighbors concerned about health effects, property values

Residents who came to the PRC meeting to watch said they wished they had known about the planning for the cell tower sooner than their abutter notice this year. Many are concerned the health effects of cell towers have not yet been identified, and they will be at a heightened risk of cancer.

Karen Dawson said she has read it is dangerous to live within 300 to 500 meters of cell towers and said her neighborhood on Bear Path Road is within that range.

Its a fry zone, Dawson said. You just dont want to be there.

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Dawson was also concerned that Parisi said the tower would not necessarily be plowed or shoveled in the winter in case firefighters needed access. McMahon said after the meeting that was not a concern given the facility will not be manned and therefore did not consist of a life hazard.

Larry and Dolores Messner said they were concerned that another commercial structure could be built in their residential zone. He said the neighborhood already has a landscaping and fencing company and does not want to see commercial activity expanding.

The industrial park there is just expanding, Messner said. When does it stop?

This article originally appeared on Portsmouth Herald: Cell tower plan to fix Route 1 dead zone sparks outrage in Hampton
Home and Away spoilers follow from Australian-pace episodes, which some UK viewers may prefer to avoid.

Home and Away's Cash Newman is set to make a disturbing discovery in new scenes due to air in Australia, as he uncovers the truth about his dodgy police colleague Madden.

Cash has just been put back in touch with his old friend Harper on Australian screens and has immediately been thrown into a drama, with Harper asking him to help her with her sister, Dana, who is on the run after being framed for drug crimes by her ex-boyfriend, Ollie.

TV Week reports that, in scenes that will air in Australia next week and in the UK in October, Cash will have his loyalty to the police force seriously challenged when he realises just how corrupt his boss, Madden, really is.

Channel 5

Related: Home and Away's Matt Evans teases "epic" new story

With Dana still in hiding until she can prove her innocence in the drugs case, the situation looks dire for her as Madden is convinced that she's guilty of the crimes she's being accused of.

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When Harper is called in for questioning about her sister, Cash tries to arm himself with useful information.

Dana later reveals that she was having lunch with Harper on the day that the drugs were stolen, but somehow these details didn't make it into her statement to Madden. Cash assures Dana that the restaurant they visited will have CCTV footage, which could be used to exonerate her.

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Related: Home and Away star talks arrival of on-screen dad

Feeling that freedom is within reach, Dana brags about her impending freedom to ex Ollie, who is still trying to pin his crimes on her.

However, she faces a setback when Cash tries to collect the CCTV footage from the restaurant and is shocked to find out that his enemy, Madden, has already visited and taken the video evidence. But how did he know about it?

Later on, at the police station, Madden grills Harper about Dana's whereabouts and Cash struggles to keep his cool. Madden soon issues a warning  he knows that they're lying and things are about to get very messy as a result.

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Related: Ex Home and Away star slams insensitive questions

Madden's threats only confirm Cash's suspicions  Madden is corrupt and is working with Dana's ex to try to frame her.

Cash reels at the shocking development, knowing that, whatever Madden has planned, it's sure to put everyone in danger.

Will Cash be able to expose Madden before it's too late?

Home and Away airs weekdays at 1.45pm on Channel 5 and 6pm on 5STAR. First-look screenings air at 6.30pm on 5STAR and the show also streams on My5.

In Australia, the show airs Mondays to Thursdays at 7pm on Channel 7 and streams on 7plus.

Selected classic episodes are available via Prime Video in the UK.

Read more Home and Away spoilers on our dedicated homepage.

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Two hurricanes will brush North Carolina this week, bringing the potential for rip currents along the coast, flash flooding in Southeastern North Carolina and heavy rain as far inland as I-95 midweek.

Hurricane Franklin will bring rough seas

 NOAA meteorologist say Hurricane Franklin will stay several hundred miles offshore as it passes between North Carolina and Bermuda starting Monday night. But forecasters say that will be close enough for the storm to generate rough seas, especially in the area from Cape Hatteras to Cape Fear.

In that area, seas will be up to 6 feet Monday, forecasters said, increasing Monday night to 9 feet and running up to 10 feet through Tuesday night.

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 With those rough seas comes the risk of rip currents, with the highest risk in the stretch from Kill Devils Hills to Cape Lookout, according to NOAA maps.

NOAA maps show areas of possible flash flooding in Southeastern North Carolina from Lumberton to Carteret County as a result of Idalia.

Idalia timeline: Moving in on Wednesday

 Idalia  which National Hurricane Center meteorologists pronounce ee-DAHL-yuh  is expected to become a hurricane Monday afternoon. Forecasters say it will begin to move through the Gulf of Mexico Monday and Tuesday toward the point where the Florida panhandle meets the peninsula.

By the time it makes landfall in that area on Wednesday, forecasters say the storm could be a Category 3 hurricane with peak winds of 129 mph.

 NOAA says the storm will move to the northeast, bringing tropical storm conditions to Georgia, South Carolina and North Carolina Wednesday night. Local forecasts show more than 6 inches of rain is possible along the N.C. coast from the South Carolina line to Hatteras.

 Flash flooding is possible, especially in the area of Southeastern North Carolina from Lumberton to Carteret County, including Wilmington and Jacksonville.

 The marine forecast calls for winds of up to 40 mph Wednesday night through Friday along the North Carolina coast, with waves up to 13 feet.

 Idalia could bring 4 to 6 inches of rain as far inland as I-95.

 From I-95 to just east of Wake County, forecasters are calling for an inch to 4 inches of rain. From Wake County to the mountains rainfall amounts vary from none to as much as 4 inches.

Idalia could bring more than 6 inches of rain to coastal North Carolina Wednesday night, NOAA says. Other parts of the state could see 1 to 4 inches.

Will Raleigh get much rain?

Raleigh is expected to get very little rain from Idalia, except from isolated thunderstorms.

What about the weather on Labor Day Weekend?

Conditions should improve on Thursday, with clearing skies and cooler temperatures compared to recent weeks.

North Carolina beach forecasts are calling for sunny skies and highs in the low- to mid-80s Friday through Monday, with lows in the 70s.

A NOAA map shows coastal North Carolina could get winds of up to 40 mph as Idalia moves past, beginning Wednesday night.

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Orders for ~100 systems received to-date in the second half of 2023

MIGDAL HAEMEK, Israel, Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Camtek Ltd. (NASDAQ: CAMT) (TASE: CAMT), today announced that it has received orders for approximately 45 systems since the beginning of August 2023 which adds up to approximately 100 systems since the beginning of July 2023. The systems will be delivered during the fourth quarter of 2023 and in 2024.

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30% of the orders received in August are for HBM and Chiplet applications and the rest are for multiple applications from more than 10 different customers. This strengthens Management's expectations that 2024 will be a record year.

"We are very pleased with the volume and variety of this order flow," said Mr. Rafi Amit, Camtek's CEO. "Camtek is uniquely positioned to benefit from the upswing in demand for HBM and Chiplets, along with several other segments within the market. "

For more information about Camtek Ltd. and its advanced inspection and metrology solutions, please visit www.camtek.com.

ABOUT CAMTEK LTD.

Camtek is a developer and manufacturer of high-end inspection and metrology equipment for the semiconductor industry. Camtek's systems inspect IC and measure IC features on wafers throughout the production process of semiconductor devices, covering the front and mid-end and up to the beginning of assembly (Post Dicing). Camtek's systems inspect wafers for the most demanding semiconductor market segments, including Advanced Interconnect Packaging, Heterogenous Integration, Memory and HBM, CMOS Image Sensors, Compound Semiconductors, MEMS, and RF, serving numerous industry's leading global IDMs, OSATs, and foundries.

With eight offices around the world, Camtek has best-in-class sales and customer support organization, providing tailor-made solutions in line with customers' requirements.

This press release is available at www.camtek.com

This press release contains statements that may constitute "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such forward-looking statements are based on Camtek's current beliefs, expectations and assumptions about its business and industry, all of which may change. Forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of words including "believe," "anticipate," "should," "intend," "plan," "will," "may," "expect," "estimate," "project," "positioned," "strategy," and similar expressions that are intended to identify forward-looking statements, including our expectations and statements relating to the compound semiconductors market and our position in this market and the anticipated timing of delivery of the systems. These forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties that may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of Camtek to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Factors that may cause our actual results to differ materially from those contained in the forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to the future contribution of HBM and Chiplet applications to the Company business, the impact of any new or revised export and/or import and doing-business regulations or sanctions, such as changes in U.S. trade policies; the risks relating to the concentration of a significant portion of our business in certain countries in the Asia Pacific Region, particularly China (which is our largest territory), Taiwan and Korea; and those other factors discussed in our Annual Report on Form 20-F and other documents filed by the Company with the SEC as well as other documents that may be subsequently filed by Camtek from time to time with the SEC. We caution you not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date hereof. Camtek does not assume any obligation to update any forward-looking statements in order to reflect events or circumstances that may arise after the date of this release unless required by law.

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While we believe that we have a reasonable basis for each forward-looking statement contained in this press release, we caution you that these statements are based on a combination of facts and factors currently known by us and our projections of the future, about which we cannot be certain. In addition, any forward-looking statements represent Camtek's views only as of the date of this press release and should not be relied upon as representing its views as of any subsequent date. Camtek does not assume any obligation to update any forward-looking statements unless required by law.

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CAMTEK LTD. Moshe Eisenberg, CFO Tel: +972 4 604 8308 Mobile: +972 54 900 7100 moshee@camtek.com INTERNATIONAL INVESTOR RELATIONS EK Global Investor Relations Ehud Helft

Tel: (US) 1 212 378 8040 camtek@ekgir.com

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SOURCE Camtek Ltd.
United States Department of Justice logo

BOSTON  Tommy Lee Galvin of Hyannis had been indicted by a federal grand jury on charges of illegal possession of ammunition as a convicted felon, according to a Tuesday afternoon statement from acting Massachusetts U.S. Attorney Joshua S. Levy.

Galvin, 31, faces one count of a felon in possession of ammunition, according to the statement.

He is alleged to have possessed three rounds of 9 mm ammunition; 11 rounds of .45 caliber ammunition and 47 rounds of 9 mm ammunition on June 2, 2023, in Barnstable.

"Galvin is prohibited from possessing firearms and ammunition due to three prior drug distribution convictions," the statement reads.

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If convicted, Galvin faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years and up to life in prison, five years of supervised release and a fine of $250,000, according to the statement.

"This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone," the statement says.

Stay connected with the Cape Cod news that matters. Sign up for our free newsletters.

This article originally appeared on Cape Cod Times: Federal grand jury indicts Hyannis man for illegal possession of ammo
Wind and rain from the outer bands of Hurricane Idalia were expected to move into the Treasure Coast Tuesday night, as the storm continues its northward trek in the Gulf of Mexico.

It's expected to intensify into an extremely dangerous Category 3 Hurricane by landfall on the Gulf Coast early Wednesday.

Live updates: Hurricane Idalia's approach to Florida

Tropical storm-force wind gusts over 35 mph and possible sustained winds of 20 mph to 30 mph with 1 to 2 inches of rain and a marginal tornado risk are all what a National Weather Service meteorologist said Indian River, St. Lucie and Martin County residents might experience as the storm passes.

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Idalia was a Category 1 hurricane with near 90 mph maximum sustained winds Tuesday, 135 miles southwest of the Dry Tortugas and roughly 320 miles south southwest of Tampa as it moved at 15 mph into the Gulf, according to the National Hurricane Center in Miami.

Satellite images show Hurricane Idalia on Tuesday as it made its way north into the Gulf of Mexico where meteorologists said it would likely intensify into a Category Three storm an anticipated landfall in the Big Bend area Wednesday, according to the National Hurricane Center in Miami.

The predicted path of the storm shows a possible landfall anywhere from St. Marks, which is 20 miles south of Tallahassee, to the Cedar Key area, which is about 140 miles from Tallahassee to the north and Tampa to the south.

There still is a lot of uncertainty, said meteorologist Jessie Smith, with the National Weather Service Forecast Office in Melbourne. A more easterly track would bring impact closer to east central Florida.

The outer bands of the storm were predicted to pass nearest the Treasure Coast between 11 p.m. Tuesday and 3 a.m. Wednesday, Smith said.

The probability for tropical storm-force winds for the Treasure Coast, has decreased, she said.

The National Hurricane Center defines Tropical storm force winds between 39 mph and 73 mph. National Weather Service models showed regionally a potential for speeds up to 57 mph.

Indian River County faces the highest possible likelihood with a 15% to 25% chance of experiencing tropical storm-force winds, while both St. Lucie and Martin counties show a roughly 10% to 20% probability, Smith said.

For rainfall, Smith said 1 to 2 inches is possible for the Treasure Coast.

Most likely what we are going to see (are) sustained winds of 20 mph to 30 mph and gusts above 35 mph, she said.

Counties update plans

The Martin County Emergency Operations Center was a hive of activity Tuesday, as officials continued to monitor Idalias path.

Were still in the same situation, except the models are definitely tighter, said Emergency Management Director Sally Waite. Were still looking the same as we were yesterday.

For Waite, storm preparation largely has consisted of daily conference calls: two with the National Weather Service, another two with the Florida Division of Emergency Management, one with the Coast Guard. She and her counterparts in St. Lucie and Indian River counties also join daily regional calls.

Hurricane Idalia: What to expect from a catastrophic collision

Bridge open: FDOT cancels closing of Alma Lee Loy Bridge in Vero Beach

We participate in all these calls because we want to know whats happening in other counties, and we want to make sure that nothings changing to our counties, Waite said.

St. Lucie County has no plans to open shelters or activate emergency operations, according to county public safety director Ron Guerrero.

As far as what we were looking at yesterday, today we're in a much better place, said Guerrero.

Officials at the Indian River County Emergency Management Department continued monitoring the system and increased staffing of its operation and information centers Tuesday.

"Residents should expect inclement weather," said Ryan Lloyd, emergency management coordinator. Without storm watches or warnings in the area, he said, schools and government offices would remain open.

Dangerous water conditions

Mario Melendez of Tampa, on a hydrofoil, rides the wind and waves crossing the inlet at the Fort Pierce Jetty as Hurricane Idalia works its way up the Gulf Coast of Florida, on Tuesday, Aug. 29, 2023. On Treasure Coast beaches, Hurricane Franklin, which is passing hundreds of miles offshore to the northeast, is causing higher swells leading to increased rip tide risks and coastal erosion. Wind and waves are expected to intensify Wednesday as Idalia cuts across Florida into Georgia and along the East Coast north of Florida.

On local beaches, Hurricane Franklin, which is passing hundreds of miles offshore to the northeast, is causing higher swells leading to increased rip tide risks and coastal erosion, Smith said.

All of which, she said, could be compounded by higher tidal swells caused by a full moon Wednesday.

Gov. Ron DeSantis Tuesday expanded the number of counties under a state of emergency in preparation for Hurricane Idalia from 46 counties to 49 counties. The Treasure Coast is not on the list.

Counties now included in his executive order are: Alachua, Baker, Bay, Bradford, Brevard, Calhoun, Charlotte, Citrus, Clay, Collier, Columbia, DeSoto, Dixie, Duval, Flagler, Franklin, Gadsden, Gilchrist, Gulf, Hamilton, Hardee, Hernando, Hillsborough, Jefferson, Lafayette, Lake, Lee, Leon, Levy, Liberty, Madison, Manatee, Marion, Nassau, Orange, Osceola, Pasco, Pinellas, Polk, Putnam, Sarasota, Seminole, St. Johns, Sumter, Suwannee, Taylor, Union, Volusia, and Wakulla counties.

Sales tax holiday: Tax holiday for hurricane supplies is on as Idalia looms

Corey Arwood is a breaking news reporter for TCPalm. Follow Corey on X @coreyarwood, or reach him by phone at 772-978-2246.

This article originally appeared on Treasure Coast Newspapers: What to expect Tuesday on Treasure Coast from Idalia
Ian, Irma, Ivan and now Idalia.

Hurricanes starting with the letter I have produced major impacts in Florida over the years.

Idalia is a tropical storm near western Cuba as of Monday, but it is expected to strengthen into a Category 3 hurricane by the time it makes landfall in Florida sometime Tuesday night or Wednesday morning, according to the National Hurricane Centers latest forecast.

The naming of tropical storms and hurricanes started in the early 1950s. By 1979, male and female names were given to storms in the Atlantic basin, according to the National Hurricane Center.

Names are picked on a six-year rotating basis with some names getting retired after use. This, though, is not done by the National Hurricane Center. Rather, the World Meteorological Organization chooses the storm names.

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No letter has produced more retired hurricane names than I storms.

Ida was the 12th I hurricane retired, the Seattle Times reported, before last years devastating Ian made it a bakers dozen for the letter.

Others retired include Ione, Inez, Iris, Isidore, Isabel, Ivan, Ike, Igor, Irene, Ingrid and Irma.

Heres a look at some of the retired hurricane names and their impacts:

Hurricane Ian

On Sept. 28, 2022, Hurricane Ian made landfall in southwest Florida as a Category 5 storm with maximum sustained winds at 150 miles per hour. Its impact to Collier, Lee, Charlotte and Sarasota counties was devastating, but just the start as it cut through central Florida in a northeastern fashion to Jacksonville and out into the Atlantic Ocean.

Once there, Ian regained strength before barreling into Charleston, South Carolina.

In total, Ian was recorded as the third-costliest hurricane in U.S. history.

A car drives down El Conquistador Parkway in Bradenton where a line of trees fell down following Hurricane Ian on Sept. 29, 2022.

Hurricane Irma

Like the more recent Ian, Hurricane Irma was a Category 5 storm in 2017. Irma weakened slightly into a Category 4 hurricane when it ravaged the Florida Keys. Then Irma headed toward southwest Florida.

After initially having a projected path toward Tampa Bay, the storm continued to shift before making landfall for a second time in Florida.

This time, it was a Category 3 hurricane making landfall near Marco Island. Irma caused more than $62 billion in damages in adjusted cost based on the 2023 Consumer Price Index, according to the NOAAs National Centers for Environmental Information costliest tropical cyclone report.

Despite not making initial landfall directly in Manatee County, the area was not spared any damage from the storm.

A mobile home suffered roof damage in the 6600 block of Cortez Road in Bradenton in the aftermath of Hurricane Irma.

Hurricane Ivan

Similar to Ian and Irma, Ivan was also a major September hurricane. Reaching Category 5 status in 2004, Hurricane Ivan did not make its initial landfall in Florida when it came to the United States.

Rather, it left a destructive Caribbean path and landed just west of Gulf Shores, Alabama. However, the outer bands made an impact in Escambia and Santa Rosa counties along Floridas panhandle.

Ivan had a historic storm surge at the time and packed winds reaching 120 miles per hour. Hurricane Ivan dealt the highest rainfall totals to Pensacola. A total of 15.79 inches were tallied in Pensacola over a 48-hour period.

The storm also looped back around into the Atlantic and through South Florida.
Hurricane Idalia in rapid intensification

Updated 6:30 p.m.

Idalia, now a Category 2 hurricane, was over the eastern Gulf of Mexico about 600 miles southwest of Charleston, packing 100 mph winds Tuesday afternoon. The storm is predicted to strengthen and make landfall Wednesday morning along the Big Bend region of Florida.

While Meteorologist Ron Morales from the Charleston office of the National Weather Service gave a 6 p.m. briefing for the Lowcountry, the area was already expected to get minor-to-moderate levels of coastal flooding Tuesday evening. He said that, for now, impacts will not be tremendous from Tuesdays flooding.

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Later Tuesday, Hurricane Idalia took a slight westward shift in track and also moved more inland.

Thats good news for the coast, especially with the elevated tides, Morales said. When you combine rainwater with that, it can be a catastrophe.

Morales said Idalia was in rapid intensification Tuesday evening. The greatest impacts for the southeast South Carolina coast remain on Wednesday and through Wednesday evening.

Predicted storm surge, between 2 and 4 feet, could impact some near-shore escape routes and secondary roads may become impassable or washed out, according to the briefing. The highest water level is expected to occur Wednesday night.

(Storm surge is a) strange beast, Morales said. The hurricane center could keep the storm surge watch, which means it cannot issue a coastal flood warning.

Exact storm surge is highly dependent on storm track, timing and intensity of the storm, the meteorologist reminded, adding that values could potentially be higher.

Morales said the earliest reasonable arrival time for potential tropical storm-force winds in Beaufort County was at about 2 p.m. Wednesday.

Hurricane Franklin remains a major hurricane about 575 miles east-southeast of Charleston, according to the State Climate Offices severe weather liaison Frank Strait. However, it is not expected to make landfall again.

-Sarah Haselhorst / shaselhorst@islandpacket.com

Beaufort Memorial Hospital

Updated 9:06 p.m.

From Dee Robinson at Beaufort Memorial Hospital, this afternoon Beaufort Memorial officials announced updates about available outpatient services, including physician clinics, due to the expected severe weather associated with Hurricane Idalia.

Beaufort Memorial physician practices will close at noon on Wednesday, Aug. 30, and then reopen at 9a.m. on Thursday, Aug. 31.

Outpatient departments will see patients until 3 p.m. on Wednesday, Aug. 30, and reopen at 9 a.m. on Thursday, Aug. 31, including outpatient laboratory services.

Scheduled elective surgeries at the hospital and the Beaufort Memorial Surgery Center will continue as planned on Wednesday, Aug. 30, and Thursday, Aug. 31.

Radiation therapy, chemotherapy and infusion services will continue as planned on Wednesday, Aug. 30. Appointments have been rescheduled to start after 9 a.m. on Thursday, Aug. 31.

- Sebastian Lee / slee@islandpacket.com

Hurricane watch triggered

Updated 5:15 p.m.

The National Weather Service issued a hurricane watch for Beaufort County, meaning hurricane-force winds are possible somewhere within the area within the next 48 hours, according to the service. Peak wind forecast was between 45 and 60 mph with gusts to 75 mph. The area of concern is Wednesday afternoon through Thursday morning.

Life-threatening storm surge is possible, the NWS said in its Tuesday evening alert. Possible peak storm surge inundation has the potential to reach 2 to 4 feet above ground somewhere within surge prone areas. Wednesday afternoon until Thursday morning is also the window of concern.

A flood watch is still in effect with peak rainfall amounts an additional 1 to 3 inches, with locally higher amounts. The flooding risk has decreased since the last assessment, the NWS noted. The current situation is favorable for tornadoes.

5PM EDT 29 Aug: #Idalia to bring catastrophic impacts from storm surge inundation . Residents in these areas should follow any advice or evacuation orders given by local officials. Make sure to stay informed with latest updates at https://t.co/tW4KeGe9uJ pic.twitter.com/jYnbfkkcyS  National Hurricane Center (@NHC_Atlantic) August 29, 2023

The hurricane watch was issued shortly after S.C. Gov. Henry McMaster has issued a cautionary state of emergency ahead of Hurricane Idalias expected arrival in the state, which is predicted to reach South Carolina as a tropical storm or depression.

No evacuations are currently planned for South Carolina, McMaster said.

The governor said he does not anticipate issuing any evacuation orders or closing state agencies or facilities, according to reporting by The State Media Co.

I dont think its going to be necessary to do that, McMaster said.

A tropical storm warning, storm surge and flood watches remain in effect for Beaufort County.

- Sarah Haselhorst / shaselhorst@islandpacket.com

City of Beaufort closures

Updated 2:30 p.m.

The City of Beaufort is suspending normal operations Wednesday and Thursday. City offices will be closed to the public, but police, fire and public works departments will be at full staff to prepare for and respond to the storm.

- Karl Puckett / kpuckett@islandpacket.com

Hilton Head Island Airport

Updated 2:30 p.m.

The Hilton Head Island Airport will remain open unless/until sustained wind speeds reach 35 mph. As of 2:25 p.m., no flights have been canceled or delayed. Cancellations and delays are decided by the airlines and not the airport.

John Rembold, Director of Airports for Beaufort County, said the best thing people can do is keep update with the airlines. The status of flights can be monitored on the airports website.

- Sebastian Lee / slee@islandpacket.com

USCB classes canceled

Updated 1:35 p.m.

Due to inclement weather from Hurricane Idalia, online and in person classes at the University of South Carolina - Beaufort are canceled Wednesday and Thursday, according to the schools website. Residence halls and the Sand Shark dining halls are open but may have limited service due to potential power outages.

All other university offices will be closed Wednesday and Thursday. School officials expect to resume normal operations for classes and all services on Friday, the website said.

- Sarah Haselhorst / shaselhorst@islandpacket.com

Technical College of the Lowcountry classes canceled

Updated 12:45 p.m.

All Technical College of the Lowcountry campuses will be closed Wednesday and Thursday due to Hurricane Idalia, according to an afternoon news release. All classes are canceled during this time. Employees will be working virtually, weather permitting, the release said.

Normal business operations are expected to resume Friday.

- Mary Dimitrov / mdimitrov@islandpacket.com

Beaufort County offices to shutter

Updated 12:15 p.m.

All Beaufort County buildings and programs will close Wednesday and Thursday due to Hurricane Idalia, a county news release said. Emergency services will remain available throughout.

Convenience Centers are closed Wednesday and Thursday.

County Parks and Recreation programs are canceled.

Hilton Head Island Airport and Beaufort Executive Airport are operating normally at this time, the county said, adding that as Idalia approaches, travelers need to check with their carriers for flight delays and cancellations.

As we closely monitor the trajectory of Hurricane Idalia, County residents can rest assured that every appropriate County department is fully engaged in preparations to ensure the safety and security of our community, said Interim County Administrator John Robinson.

- Sarah Haselhorst / shaselhorst@islandpacket.com

Tropical Storm Warning triggered

Updated noon

A Tropical Storm Warning was issued for Beaufort County at 11 a.m., warning of high winds and gusts, life-threatening storm surge, flooding rain and potential for isolated tornadoes.

A Tropical Storm Warning is issued when tropical storm-force winds  sustained winds of 39 to 73 mph or higher  associated with a tropical cyclone are expected in 36 hours or less, according to the NWS.

Flood and Storm Surge watches are still in place.

During an 11:30 a.m. briefing, Morales said the confidence in Hurricane Idalias track is absolutely increasing, which means the confidence for predicted threats is solidifying. Its a pretty much sure bet that the Lowcountry will get tropical storm-force winds and gusts, with the greatest likelihood blowing in Wednesday afternoon, Morales said.

Storm surge is expected to swell between 2 and 4 feet above normally dry ground. Morales added that 3 feet of storm surge is considered life-threatening. Morales said rainfall could be between 4 and 8 inches, with isolated higher amounts, with Wednesday night dropping the most. Flooding, especially in flood-prone areas, has a high likelihood of occurring.

(Rain) will come down in kind of a hurry, Morales said, adding that total rainfall would accumulate within about 12 hours.

- Sarah Haselhorst / shaselhorst@islandpacket.com

Calm before the storm at Whitehall Boat Landing on Ladys Island looking toward Woods Memorial Bridge in Beaufort on Tuesday, Aug. 29, 2023.

Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport status

Updated 11:15 a.m.

The airport will remain operational, media spokesperson Lori Lynah said Tuesday morning. However, they are expecting delays.

As of 11:15 a.m., no delays have been announced, Lynah said.

Up-to-date information can be found at the airports arrivals / departures section of their website. Airlines control flight times, not the airport, so the best thing those with a flight to catch can do, Lynah said, is stay in touch with the airlines.

- Sebastian Lee / slee@islandpacket.com

Wednesday, Thursday eLearning

Updated 11:00 a.m.

Beaufort County schools will have eLearning and remote work days Wednesday and Thursday due to Hurricane Idalia, according to the district. Extracurricular activities are canceled and buildings will be closed on both days.

Teachers should provide students information about eLearning. If families are traveling or have power outages the district recommends they reach out to teachers once possible so they can made accommodations.

- Mary Dimitrov / mdimitrov@islandpacket.com

Idalia strengthens to a hurricane Tuesday morning

Updated 8:30 a.m.

Early Tuesday morning Idalia strengthened to a hurricane over the Gulf of Mexico after it scraped Cubas western shoreline, according to the National Hurricane Center. Forecasters expect Idalia will ramp up to a Category 3 hurricane on Wednesday morning when it makes landfall along the west coast of the Big Bend region of Florida, the center said.

As of 8 a.m. Tuesday, Idalia was about 325 miles south-southwest of Tampa, the center reported. Idalia was heading north at 14 mph, with maximum sustained winds up to 80 miles per hour.

Here are the Key Messages for Hurricane Idalia for the Tuesday am advisory. #Idalia is expected to intensify into an extremely dangerous major hurricane before landfall along the west coast or Big Bend region of Florida. More: https://t.co/tW4KeGe9uJ pic.twitter.com/AV2NrctxlN  National Hurricane Center (@NHC_Atlantic) August 29, 2023

In the Lowcountry, a 6 a.m. Tuesday briefing from the National Weather Services Charleston Office reported Idalia would track near the coast as a Tropical Storm late Wednesday morning through Thursday morning.

Heavy rainfall, between 4 and 8 inches, flash flooding and storm surge with high tide remained possible effects from Idalia. A moderate-to-high probability of tropical storm force winds remains, especially along the coast, NWS said. Dangerous rip currents, high surf and significant beach erosion are possible. A risk for tornadoes remains for the states southeast coast throughout Wednesday.

FLOOD WATCH IN EFFECT FROM WEDNESDAY MORNING THROUGH LATE WEDNESDAY NIGHT: Flash flooding caused by heavy rain from Hurricane Idalia across southeast Georgia and southeast South Carolina. Flooding of rivers, creeks, and low-lying areas possible. https://t.co/PwjSyXjpTx pic.twitter.com/p7Z4G9UVIP  NWS Charleston, SC (@NWSCharlestonSC) August 29, 2023

Tropical Storm and Storm Surge watches were in place for Beaufort County on Tuesday morning. Throughout Wednesday, the county will be under a Flood Watch. A rip current statement also remains in place. Watches indicate the threat is possible somewhere within the area within the next 48 hours.

Details regarding the track, intensity, and timing of Idalia are still being refined, the service reminded.

Hurricane Franklin, a Category 4 hurricane, remains formidable, however its not expected to make landfall again. But its wake still makes for life-threatening surf and and rip currents along the southeast coastline, the National Hurricane Center reported.

- Sarah Haselhorst / shaselhorst@islandpacket.com

Increasing impacts for the Lowcountry

Updated 6:45 p.m.

While Tropical Storm Idalia hadnt strengthened into a hurricane as it moved in the Caribbean Sea, the storm was packing winds of 70 mph Monday afternoon. The National Hurricane Center expects Idalia to move into the Gulf of Mexico and become a major hurricane that will make landfall in Florida early Wednesday.

Forecasters say Idalias landfall will be near Horseshoe Beach, a western shift in the track, according to Miami Herald reporting. However, meteorologists said the track will continue to flip-flop east and west as the storm approaches.

In the Lowcountry, effects from Idalia could be seen as early as Tuesday evening with the height of concern throughout Wednesday, according to the National Weather Service Charleston Offices Meteorologist Ron Morales.

Morales said impacts from Idalia are increasing for the Lowcountry, with wind, storm surge, flooding rain and marine conditions as the main concerns. He added that the area Idalia is headed for in the Gulf is notorious for rapid intensification.

After Idalia makes landfall, the storm is predicted to cross the Florida Panhandle through, maybe, the southeast portion of Georgia and then really kind of (scrape) all along our coasts, Morales said during a Monday evening briefing. However, he warned not to focus on the exact track this far out.

According to the current forecast, theres a potential for 58 to 73 mph winds along the southeast South Carolina coast. Morales said to at least prepare for low-end hurricane wind gusts.

The greatest impact for storm surge is expected to happen Wednesday night with high tide. In Beaufort County, without the rainfall, high tide will swell to 9.1 feet at about 9:30 p.m. The highest potential shows water above normally-dry ground rising up to 3 feet.

Not everywhere will get the same amounts (of rainfall), Morales said. Some may get lucky and the winds are offshore ... during high tide Wednesday evening. So not everybody will experience it. Some will get worse than others. We just dont know where yet.

There is a potential threat for isolated tornadoes, the meteorologist added, but it depends if the storm tracks more inland. The more inland Idalias wake is felt, the higher the threat for tornadoes.

Again, these are potentials that we want to prepare for, Morales reiterated.

The State Climate Offices severe weather liaison Frank Strait wrote in a Monday evening email that how much storm surge will impact the South Carolinas coast will depend on the timing, track, and intensity of Idalia moving through the state. Strait explained that storm surge is a big concern because the area is entering a period of high astronomical tides.

According to tide charts via the US Harbors site, Beaufort Countys Wednesday morning high tide will reach 8.2 feet at about 9 a.m. The evening high tide at 9:30 p.m. will swell to 9.1 feet. Thursday mornings 9:50 tide is predicted to reach 8.6 feet. Those values are without potential rainfall amounts from Idalia.

The bottom line here is that the surge could be worse than forecast and you should be paying close attention to the storm surge forecast for your area if youre a coastal resident, Strait wrote.

- Sarah Haselhorst / shaselhorst@islandpacket.com

Tropical Storm, Storm Surge watches triggered

Updated 5:30 p.m.

Awaiting still-Tropical Storm Idalia, Tropical Storm and Surge watches were triggered for Beaufort County at 5:07 p.m. Monday.

A Storm Surge Watch means life-threatening inundation, from rising water moving inland from the coastline is possible somewhere within the county within the next 48 hours, according to the National Weather Service. As of Monday early evening, peak surge inundation was between 2 and 4 feet above ground somewhere within surge prone areas. The service outlined Wednesday afternoon and Thursday morning as windows of concern.

Storm surge flooding can damage buildings near the coast, roads, marinas, docks boardwalks and piers.

With #Idalia likely impacting the area, let's review what the differences are in watches and warnings for tropical storm force winds and storm surge. #chswx #savwx #scwx #gawx pic.twitter.com/kxmNcB7wI4  NWS Charleston, SC (@NWSCharlestonSC) August 28, 2023

Peak rainfall amounts will accumulate between 3 and 6 inches, with locally higher amounts, the NWS said. Streets and parking lots could become flooded, and drinking water and sewer services could be negatively impacted.

Water will be the big issue for the Carolinas from #Idalia Rainfall + Surge + King Tides, and dont forget #Franklin is still sending swells towards the coast as well, wrote Charlotte, North Carolina, meteorologist Brad Panovich in a Facebook post. The rainfall totals are really high here & with onshore flow & surge water trying to move out of rivers runs into the surge. Water levels are going to be high.

Panovich warned residents in flood-prone areas to begin making plans to move inland or to higher ground.

A Tropical Storm Watch indicates that tropical storm-force winds are also possible within the next 48 hours, the National Weather Service said.

The NWS predicted peak winds could reach 45 to 60 mph with gusts to 70 mph. The window of concern was Wednesday afternoon until early Thursday morning. Hazardous winds can cause roof and structural damage, snapped or uprooted trees, airborne projectiles, impassable roads, and power and communication outages.

A rip current statement is also in effect until 8 p.m. Wednesday.

- Sarah Haselhorst / shaselhorst@islandpacket.com

Rainfall, winds biggest concern

Updated 11:40 a.m.

Monday morning, Tropical Storm Idalia brewed near the western tip of Cuba on Monday morning, with the forecasters predicting the storm to soon strengthen to a hurricane, and had maximum sustained winds of 65 mph.

Beaufort County could get between 4 and 8 inches of rain, strong, gusty winds, flooding, dangerous rip currents and severe erosion could pummel the Lowcountry beginning Wednesday evening, according the National Weather Service Charleston Office.

During a Monday morning National Weather Service Charleston Office briefing, Meteorologist Steven Taylor said Lowcountry weather conditions will begin to steadily deteriorate Wednesday and peak in the evening and into early Thursday.

If the winds stay onshore and the system ends up being slower, the risk for coastal flooding and significant impacts will increase along parts of the Georgia coast and linger even longer up in the lower South Carolina coast, Taylor said.

The big concern from Idalias wrath will be rainfall and freshwater flooding, which when considering the already-high tides, could devolve into major flooding, Taylor said. Marine conditions, including dangerous rip currents that are currently rippling along the southeast coast, will also be of concern.

Beaufort County was at a moderate risk for flash flooding and potential tornadoes throughout Wednesday, according to the local service Monday.

- Sarah Haselhorst / shaselhorst@islandpacket.com
President Joe Biden will stop in Vietnam to meet with that country's top officials next week as he seeks to establish stronger ties between the two nations, the White House said Monday. File Photo by Nathan Howard/UPI

Aug. 28 (UPI) -- President Joe Biden will visit Vietnam next week to meet with that nation's top officials, including General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong, in a bid to "deepen cooperation," the White House said Monday.

The stop in Vietnam will be made on Sept. 10 during Biden's return trip from the G20 Summit in India. He is scheduled to arrive in New Delhi on Sept. 7, two days in advance of the Sept. 9-10 summit.

During the Hanoi stop, Biden and Trong, head of Vietnam's Communist Party, will "explore opportunities to promote the growth of a technology-focused and innovation-driven Vietnamese economy," as well as "increase peace, prosperity, and stability in the region," White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said in a statement.

At a time of increasing U.S.-China tensions, the two leaders will seek to forge closer ties through "education exchanges and workforce development programs" and to combat climate change during the talks, she said.

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The relations between communist Vietnam and the United States have steadily grown since the former Cold War enemies re-established diplomatic relations in 1995 and now includes formal economic, political and security relationships.

Tnen-President Barack Obama meets in the White House with General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong of Vietnam on July 7, 2015. Obama and Trong signed the U.S.-Vietnam Comprehensive Partnership two years earlier. File Photo by Martin H. Simon/UPI

Biden's visit could usher in a significant upgrade in that relationship with the signing of a new strategic partnership agreement, Politico reported this month.

Citing three people "with knowledge of the deal's planning," the publication said the deal will foster new collaborations aimed at boosting Vietnam's efforts to develop its high technology sector, including semiconductor production and artificial intelligence.

Biden's trip comes four months after U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken met with Trong and other top Vietnamese officials in Hanoi, calling for a "free, open, connected, prosperous, secure, and resilient Indo-Pacific region, one that is at peace and rooted in respect for the rules-based international order."

Blinken's meeting coincided with the 10th anniversary of the U.S.-Vietnam Comprehensive Partnership launched by then-President Barack Obama in 2013.

As Washington seeks to counterbalance the increasing assertiveness of China's military and its economic might in the region, its security cooperation with Hanoi currently includes support for Vietnam's Coast Guard and countering transnational organized crime, including human trafficking, the trafficking of drugs, precursor chemicals and wildlife.

Economic ties between the countries are also deepening. Vietnam-U.S. trade in goods exceeded $138 billion last year, which the White House calls "a remarkable expansion from nearly no economic links when ties were established 28 years ago."

The United States is now the largest export destination for Vietnamese goods, including textiles, footwear and electronics.
MANHATTAN, Kan. (KSNW)  Kansas State University is expanding a program that helps more students get free or almost tuition.

K-States Land Grant Promise, which was only open to students from 10 counties last year, is now available to all Kansas counties. It includes students at all K-State locations, including Manhattan, Salina and Olathe, and K-State Online.

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A student has to meet specific guidelines:

Be a Kansas resident with an active Kansas address at the time of application to K-State. Students who have met the states qualifications for residency exception for military personnel or indigenous students may qualify.

Be a U.S. citizen or eligible noncitizen.

Must be Federal Pell Grant eligible as determined by FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid).

Must meet satisfactory academic progress each semester.

Annual combined family income of $70,000 or less demonstrated by FAFSA

Complete the FAFSA by the published priority deadline each year.

Be an undergraduate student enrolled in at least 12 credit hours each term, pursuing their first baccalaureate degree.

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The Promise is that the student will receive a total grant and scholarship aid package up to the equivalent cost of 15 credit hours of in-state tuition.

K-State will automatically evaluate each student to see if they qualify. If the student qualifies and their existing grants and scholarships do not cover up to 15 hours a semester, K-State will automatically provide them a Land Grant Promise award. Click here to learn more details about the Land Grant Promise.

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We are committed to improving student access and success at K-State, said Karen Goos, vice provost of enrollment management at K-State. Of the Land Grant Promise recipients this fall, more than 48% identify as first generation or first in their family to pursue a bachelors degree. Removing financial barriers to K-State, a university that celebrates the highest retention and graduation rates of any university in the state, provides a pathway to a bright future full of opportunity.

Students who do not qualify for the Land Grant Promise may be eligible for other aid, including micro-retention grants, completion grants and emergency assistance. Click here to learn more.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 4 Kansas City WDAF-TV | News, Weather, Sports.
MUNCIE, Ind.  The issue concerning creation of solar farms in Delaware County appears on the verge of coming front and center again with new, organized action by citizen proponents of using local farmland to make electricity.

Last week State Rep. Sue Errington, D-Muncie, a supporter of solar, spoke with Delaware County County Commissioners about a forthcoming new version of a solar zoning ordinance, developed since 2022, when a moratorium on solar fields was issued by commissioners and a solar study committee was established to work on a new ordinance.

Errington said she was representing the League of Women Voters of Delaware County, which has become active in the local fight for renewable energy.

Indiana Michigan Power's Deer Creek solar power station is a 2.5 MW facility in Marion.

The moratorium lasts until Dec. 31. Errington asked that if an ordinance could be created and passed by December, if the moratorium could end sooner.

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Commissioners said yes, it could.

The moratorium came in response to determined community opposition to a large planned solar field aimed for Washington Township that would have filled a significant number of fields with solar panels from Gaston to to Matthews. Invenergy was the developer of the project that was named Meadow Forge.

Development of a new ordinance has been stalled since the death of Metropolitan Plan Commission Director Marta Moody earlier this year. A consultant has been hired to pull together notes from a Solar Study Committee, made up of project supporters and opponents, that had worked to develop a new ordinance.

More: Commissioners support ordinance to extend solar farm moratorium through end of the year

Brandy Ingermann of the plan commission told commissioners the proposed ordinance would have to go back to the study committee for its approval. Then the proposed zoning ordinance would then have to go to full plan commission for its decision before going back to commissioners for the final decision on whether it becomes law.

Ingermann said the earliest it could go before the plan commission would be in October or possibly in November.

Issues, including set backs from homes and protection from loss of property value for surrounding homes, were among issues under discussion during the controversies that led up to the new ordinance discussions. There was also much discontent by neighbors over failure to notify them of plans for the development until it had been approved by some public officials.

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Errington said surrounding counties were benefitting from renewable energy projects and Delaware County was in danger of being left behind.

"We're sort of like an island here that is not doing anything," she said.

More: Solar vs. grain: Farm feud in Washington Township roils community, ends friendships

The state representative also said Indiana has been encouraging the development of renewable energy and is expected to start making funds available to counties and municipalities that commit to its growth locally.

"I think there are a lot of reasons why we would want to adopt a strong solar ordinance in this county and I urge you to do so," Errington said.

In November of 2021, Delaware County Commissioners approved an economic development agreement for the Meadow Forge solar development, which was owned by the global renewable energy company called Invenergy, based in Chicago. Provisions of the agreement stated the company would pay Delaware County up to $200,000 annually for 10 years.

Invenergy also entered into agreements with property owners, including local farmers, for the purchase of farm ground for the development.

In addition to Errington's appearance, the League has created a Facebook page called "Citizens for Solar in Delaware County, Indiana." which presents the case for solar development.

Linda Hanson, spokesman for the League, told the Star Press that the League of Women Voters has no relationship with any solar developers and has received no monetary assistance.

Opponents of the solar development in Washington Township showed at the commissioner meeting earlier this month.

"It wouldn't break my heart at all if you just decided to end this whole matter right now and just say this county is not going to entertain this prospect," township resident Tim Niccum told commissioners.

"Our position on the solar moratorium was reached after considerable study. Findings were laid out for League members, and members voted to adopt the position," she said.

This article originally appeared on Muncie Star Press: League of Women Voters campaigns for solar as ordinance drafted
On Saturday, August 26, after an intense seven-hour battle, a crew of hunters hauled in the biggest alligator ever caught and recorded in the state of Mississippi. The monster weighed an astonishing 802.5 pounds, according to the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks (MDWFP). And at 14-feet, three inches long, it out-measured the Magnolia State's previous length record by a little more than two inches.

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Donald Woods, Joey Clark, Will Thomas, and Tanner White were hunting on the Yazoo River in the West Central Alligator Hunting Zone when Woods hooked into the enormous reptile with a large weighted treble hook around 9 p.m. "We knew he was wide," Woods later told the Clarion-Ledger. "His back was humongous. It was like we were following a jon boat."

According to Woods, the crew went on to hook the gator eight or nine times, but it kept on breaking their rods and reels. It swam to the bottom of the Yazoo, settled in beneath logs, and stopped moving for hours on end. Finally, around 3:30 a.m., the big gator started to lose its stamina. A half hour later, the hunters dispatched it and pulled it aboard their boat.

MDWFP issues 920 tags during its 10-day gator hunting season.

"We just knew we had a big alligator," Woods told the Clarion-Ledger. "We were just amazed at how wide his back was and how big the head was. It was surreal, to tell you the truth."

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Andrew Arnett, the state's Alligator Program coordinator, came out to record the official measurements. The girth around its tail measured a full 66 inches in diameter, and its belly girth taped out at whopping 46.5 inches. It outweighed the previous record, taken in 2017, by a full 36 pounds.


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Ana Navarro is about to head back on the air for The View season 27, but not before she enjoys a much-deserved vacation.

Ana has been out of office ahead of the morning show's September 5 premiere, and she posted a series of images on Instagram from her getaway to Patmos Island in Greece. While she showed off private moments with her husband Al Cardenas, Ana got folks talking with one particular outfit she wore during her European trip.

In the pictures added on August 21, fans see Ana wearing a white dress that hit right above her knees and had a sweetheart neckline with a bow tied at the front. To add a touch of femininity to the monochromatic look, the garment's short sleeves billowed out from the bodice and had matching ruffles by the hem. The look not only felt perfect for summer, but it was an effortless way to spend some time on the Aegean Sea with her loved ones.

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But that wasn't all Ana wore for her sun-filled holiday break. To keep the overall lightness of the look, she threw on a pair of espadrille wedge sandals that buckled around the ankle. She kept her shoulder-length brown hair relatively simple, leaving it in its natural state. Adding a few bracelets and a pendant, she pulled everything together with simple eye makeup and brown-hued lipstick.

Naturally, seeing Ana's outfit had The View fans totally speechless and commenting how good she looked on Instagram.

"You look incredible!! SLAY QUEEN ," one person declared. " Looking gorgeous," another raved. "Honey you are serving and glowing!" a different follower exclaimed.

While it's unclear whether she'll carry this vibe to daytime TV next month, we honestly want to replicate it for ourselves. Maybe we should use this as fashion inspiration as we approach the final days of summer...

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CeeLo Green, Lonestar and Bowling for Soup are just some of the music acts coming to the this years State Fair of Texas.

Its nearly time to pack the car and head to Dallas for the 137th edition of the fair from Sept. 29 to Oct. 22. The 24 consecutive days of fun are all held at Fair Park at 3809 Grand Ave.

Three stages are setup at the fair for live music: Chevrolet, Bud Light and Yuengling Flight.

The Chevrolet stage is for the headlining and regional acts located next to the craft pavilion near the Hall of State. The Bud Light stage is for local and regional talent at the Cotton Bowl Plaza, while Yuengling is for local musicians and comedy shows outside the Go Texas pavilion.

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A list of the local musicians playing at the fair can be found here. Heres what we know about the headlining acts performing at the Chevrolet Main Stage:

Opening weekend lineup

A classic 90s country band kicks off the fairs opening weekend.

Sept. 29 at 8:30 p.m.  Lonestar

Sept. 30 at 4 and 8:30 p.m.  CeeLo Green, Chrisette Michele

Oct. 1 at noon and 8:30 p.m.  DJ Ivan, La Zenda Nortena

First week lineup

Travel back to 1985 with Bowling for Soup and Get Low with Lil Jon.

Oct. 2 at 5:30 p.m.  The University of North Texas Four o Clock Lab Band

Oct. 3 at 8:30 p.m.  Bowling for Soup

Oct. 4 at 5:30 p.m.  South Texas Homies

Oct. 5 at 5:30 and 8:30 p.m.  Sabor Puro, Clayton Mullen

Oct. 6 at 5:30 and 8:30 p.m.  Matt Hillyer, Hairball

Oct. 7 at 8:30 p.m.  Lil Jon

Oct. 8 at 4 p.m. and 8:30 p.m.  Experience Selena and 38 Special

Week two lineup

Become a Renegades with X Ambassadors in week two.

Oct. 9 at 3 and 5:30 p.m.  The Little Mermen, Matt Koziol

Oct. 10 at 5:45 p.m.  Katie Toupin

Oct. 11 at 5:45 p.m. - Outlaw Mariachi

Oct. 12 at 5:45 p.m.  The Powell Brother s

Oct. 13 at 8:30 p.m.  X Ambassadors

Oct. 14 at 2 and 8:30 p.m.  Rathmore, Craig Morgan

Oct. 15 at 2, 6 and 8:30 p.m.  Braxton Keith, J.R. Carroll, Shane Smith & The Saints

Week three lineup

A big list of acts close out the fairs final week of concerts.

Oct. 16 at 4 p.m.  Sazerac Jazz Band

Oct. 17 at 4 and 8:30 p.m.  Holly Beth, Graycie York

Oct. 18 at 4 p.m.  The 40 Acre Mile

Oct. 19 at 4 and 8:30 p.m.  Dallas Burrow, Jake Worthington

Oct. 20 at 5:30 and 8:30 p.m.  Forever Motown, The War & Treaty

Oct. 21 at 2, 4 and 8:30 p.m.  Charlotte Sands, Red Jumpsuit Apparatus, We The Kings

Oct. 22 at 3 p.m.  Yahritza y Su Esencia
While mourning the end of summer has already started, the season isnt over yet. With the long weekend and holiday from school and work, Labor Day offers the perfect opportunity to soak up the last rays of summer sun in the Ocean State.

If you are looking to know what's going on this Labor Day weekend all across Rhode Island, here's a list of 11 events to check out, ranging from free access to ticket-exclusive events. Whether youre a fan of local sports, food, music or nature, Rhode Island is sure to have an attraction that will bring fun to your last weekend of summer.

Attend the River Bend East Songwriters Festival

Each year, the Pawtucket Arts Festival hosts the River Bend East Songwriters Festival at Slater Mill National Park, right on the waterfront of the scenic Blackstone River. This year, the festival will take place on Friday, Sept. 1 and Saturday, Sept. 2. Award-winning musicians and the regions best singer-songwriters will be performing live all weekend long, starting at 6:30 p.m. on Friday and noon on Saturday. Admission is free to all, and bringing lawn chairs is suggested. Located at 67 Roosevelt Ave. in Pawtucket.

Watch fireworks at McCoys final inning

Pawtucket Red Sox fans will have a chance to say goodbye to the beloved McCoy Stadium on Sunday from 3-9:30 p.m.

The vacant McCoy Stadium will host a final inning on Sunday, Sept. 3, allowing PawSox fans and locals a chance to say goodbye. Attractions such as live music, food trucks, a bounce house and face painting will run from 3-9:30 p.m., and McCoys final fireworks show will begin at 9:20 p.m. This event is free and located at McCoy Stadium, 1 Columbus Ave. in Pawtucket.

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Cheer on the dragon boat racers

Dragon boat races at Festival Pier along the Seekonk River in 2017.

Part of the annual Taiwan Day Festival, the Rhode Island Chinese Dragon Boat Races is a series of mixed-division races of Taiwanese dragon boats, wood paddles and flag catching along the Pawtucket River. Besides these entertaining boat races, the fair also offers cultural performances, arts and crafts, food trucks and a dumpling-eating contest. Open from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 2 at Festival Pier, 21 Tim Healey Way in Pawtucket.

Boat lovers should also check out Labor Day races in Newport, the sailing capital of the world. The 44th Annual Newport Classic Yacht Regatta takes place on Saturday, Sept. 2 and Sunday, Sept. 3, ending in a yacht parade, and Conanicut Yacht Clubs 96th Around The Island Race takes place on Sunday, Sept. 3. Both events are set on beautiful Narragansett Bay and will be visible from the shores of Newport or Jamestown.

Attend a Newport Polo match

The crowd watches as Newport takes on New York in a polo match in Portsmouth.

Sports fans will enjoy a USA vs. England polo match at Newport Polo, Americas first polo club, on Saturday, Sept. 2 at 4 p.m. Spectators have the perfect opportunity to enjoy a Labor Day tailgate in the shade of a pavilion table for $30 or out in the sun on the lawn for $20. Located at Newport International Polo Series, 250 Linden Lane in Portsmouth.

Enjoy local seafood

Indulge in New England seafood at Ragged Island Brewing Companys famous Labor Day Clambake, with catering from McGrath Clambakes. The clambake will take place from 4-7 p.m. on Monday, Sept. 4 at 54 Bristol Ferry Road in Portsmouth.

Find your groove at the Rhythm and Roots festival

The 25th Rhythm and Roots festival will take place Sept. 13 at Ninigret Park in Charlestown. This festival features a variety of live music, including zydeco, polka, blues, country and bluegrass. Other attractions include food and craft vendors, dance performances and on-site camping. Day passes start at $59, with multiple package deals available. Located at Ninigret Park, 5 Park Lane in Charlestown.

Relax at a vineyard

Rows of grapes are seen at Newport Vineyards.

For those who want a relaxing long weekend, a Rhode Island vineyard is a great place to celebrate Labor Day. Newport Vineyards is celebrating Labor Day weekend with wine and beer tastings, rose popsicles, sangria slushies and a special cookout menu. Walk-ins and RSVPs are welcome, and guests are welcome to bring blankets and chairs. Hours are 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Friday-Sunday, and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday. Located at 909 East Main Road in Middletown.

Spend some time in nature

For hiking lovers, the Cumberland Land Trust is hosting guided walks on the Blackall Family and Ballou Farm Preserve, complete with beautiful streams and woodland. This event offers free entry to all, but pets are not allowed. The walk will take place from 10 a.m.12:30 p.m. on Monday, Sept. 4 at 3751 Mendon Road in Cumberland.

Nature and animal lovers can also check out Labor Day Nature Activities at the Audubon Society of Rhode Island in Bristol. With arts and crafts, nature stories, animal interviews and wetland explorations, this event is sure to interest nature lovers of all ages. This attraction is free with admission to the nature center and will last from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Monday, Sept. 4. Located at the Audubon Society of Rhode Island Nature Center and Aquarium, 1401 Hope St., Bristol.

Jump into fall

Hard-Pressed Cider Company's cider doughnuts come plain or dusted with cinnamon sugar.

For those who cant wait for cooler weather and falling leaves, the Hard Pressed Cider Company in Jamestown opens Labor Day weekend. Celebrate opening weekend with some sweet apple cider, a cider slushie and a homemade cider doughnut. Hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. FridaySunday. Located at Windmist Farm, 71 Weeden Lane, Jamestown

This article originally appeared on The Providence Journal: 11 awesome events to check out Labor Day weekend 2023 in RI
WELLESLEY  When Edgar Kasirye was a boy growing up in Uganda, he dreamed of becoming an aerospace engineer, but educational opportunities were limited. In 2018, the now grown-up Kasirye was granted immigration to the U.S., and he moved to Massachusetts with his wife and three children.

"In Africa, people talk about America as the place of dreams," he said. "When I first arrived, I knew I wanted to go to school and start pursuing education."

However, Kasirye was met with the steep reality of having to pay for school. While enrolling at MassBay Community College, he struggled to pay for school while also working full time and providing for his family. He was limited to taking a few courses at a time, and began accumulating student loans to help pay for them.

Gov. Maura Healey visited MassBay Community College in Wellesley on Thursdya to tout MassReconnect, the state's new educational initiative that allows residemnts 25 and older to attend community college for free, Aug. 24, 2023.

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"Sometimes, the loan being given to me couldn't cover all the classes, so I was paying out of pocket, and I could register to take two or three classes at a time," Kasirye said. "Then one day, Valerie (Kapilow), the STEM director at the school, told me there was a new program that would be able to help people in my situation."

Who can attend community college for free in Massachusetts

The new program, MassReconnect, is funded by the state and grants all Massachusetts residents aged 25 and older free community college tuition. It even offers reimbursement to students who have already accumulated debt. State officials visited MassBay's main campus in Wellesley on Thursday to unveil the program, which goes into effect this fall.

"Starting today, community college is free for anyone aged 25 or older in the state of Massachusetts," Gov. Maura Healey said during the public event. "No tuition, fees, books, supplies and more. I believe this will have a transformative impact for thousands of students around the state, their families, our workforce and our economy."

Program should allow people to take more classes, graduate faster

MassBay President David Podell said many community college students take a course or two at a time due to the cost, which delays the education process and creates barriers preventing students from graduating.

Several state officials visited MassBay Community College on Thursday to tout a new educational inititiative that enables residents 25 and older to attend community college for free. From left are Gov. Maura Healey, Lt. Gov. Kim Driscoll, state Senate President Karen Spilka and state Secretary of Education Patrick Tutwiler.

"MassReconnect is going to open many, many opportunities for students," Podell said. "As it is now, they are taking very few credits, sometimes because they can't afford it. They have jobs, they have families, they are making sacrifices just to hang on to their education. It's a very slow way to get your degree, and some students never get there."

Podell said enrollment for the fall semester is up 17% from a year ago, and he anticipates that number will grow as more people become aware of MassReconnect. Podell said the school has been buffing up its student services division to make sure new students have the support they need to stay enrolled.

"We know from states that did something like this already, that the retention rate falls," Podell said. "We're preparing ourselves to prevent that, giving them more wraparound services, more advisement, more tutoring, counseling, dealing with food insecurity  we are trying to do all of those supports to help make sure students are following through and as many of them stay as long as possible."

Nursing program free for all students

Besides MassReconnect, the state is also enacting a program that makes community college nursing programs free for all students, regardless of age.

The program is aimed at assisting with a nursing shortage that is impacting health care systems throughout the country, including at MetroWest Medical Center in Framingham, which has faced significant staffing challenges over the past several years.

Gov. Maura Healey announced details of a free community college program for residents 25 and older during a press conference Thursday at MassBay Community College in Wellesley.

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"The more nurses that we get into the field, the more nurses in our workforce, we will have less contracted nurses from outside, which will hopefully lower the cost of health care," said state Senate President Karen Spilka, D-Ashland. "There are nursing shortages everywhere  hospitals, nursing centers, community health centers, our schools, everywhere."

Tuition-free college brings students back

Eliminating tuition for residents over age 25 also offers opportunities for those who have had trouble attending and sticking with school on a regular basis.

Nick Lekas, of Framingham, started attending MassBay during the pandemic. But an opportunity to get a promotion at work forced him to make a decision between school and his job.

"I got the option to take on new roles," Lekas said. "I worked my butt off, 60 to 70 hours a week, and my school work began to suffer. I was traveling a lot for work and the time zone differences made it hard to get assignments in on time, and I had to make a very difficult choice."

Lekas, now is a dental assistant, aims to become a hygienist. He will do all of his prerequisite courses at MassBay.

Nick Lekas, of Framingham, who will take part in MassReconnect, the state program to provide free community college for Massachusetts residents aged 25 and older, with Gov. Maura Healey. Both spoke at the Mass Bay Community College Wellesley campus press conference Aug. 24, 2023.

"I'm beyond excited to return to school," he said. "When I got the call, I was so pumped. I can't wait. Being able to go back at no cost, it's amazing. It relieves a burden, it takes a huge weight off my shoulders and taking the financial aspect out of it allows me to focus more on school."

Kasirye, the immigrant from Uganda, will graduate from MassBay after the fall semester. He plans to go on to study chemical engineering at UMass Boston. The free tuition and reimbursement will not only allow Kasirye to graduate faster, but will also enable him to focus more on his family.

"My kids, it's the summer time and the first thing they ask me is where we are going on vacation," he said. "They don't really understand that I'm paying for student loans and we might not be able to do something that costs a lot of money."

Podell said the cost to attend MassBay full time is about $7,500 a year, a large amount for students who have expenses beyond college.

"For those students, it (MassReconnect) removes such a burden and suddenly, a college education becomes within reach," he said. "They still need to do the work, read the books, write the papers, take the exams.

"All of that is the same, but the financial pressure is now alleviated."

This article originally appeared on MetroWest Daily News: Why older students, educators are excited about free community college
Meta will not suspend Cambodias former Prime Minister from Facebook and Instagram, declining to follow a recommendation from its Oversight Board. The board, which functions independently from the social media company, had recommended Meta suspend then-Prime Minister Hun Sen 's Facebook and Instagram accounts for six months for inciting violence.

In a response to the case published Wednesday, Meta said a long-term suspension would not be consistent with its policies. Upon assessing Hun Sens Facebook Page and Instagram account, we determined that suspending those accounts outside our regular enforcement framework would not be consistent with our policies, including our protocol on restricting accounts of public figures during civil unrest, the company wrote.

Metas handling of the high-profile case has been closely watched around the world, with many viewing it as a test of the companys policies governing speech from politicians, who have historically had more leeway on the platform. In a statement, an Oversight Board spokesperson said the group "stands by" its recommendations, Elections are a crucial part of democracy and social media companies must ensure their platforms are not misused in ways which threaten to undermine them. The Board stands by its original decision and urges Meta to do everything in its power to deter public figures who exploit its platforms to incite violence.

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The company had originally asked the Oversight Board to weigh in on a video posted by Sen. The video was of a speech in which Sen told political opponents he'd "gather CPP (Cambodia People's Party) people to protest and beat you up." Meta had opted to leave up the video, citing its controversial newsworthiness policy, despite concluding it had violated the companys own rules.

The Oversight Board overruled Metas decision and said the video should come down. The board also said that Sen should face a lengthy suspension. Given the severity of the violation, Hun Sens history of committing human rights violations and intimidating political opponents, as well as his strategic use of social media to amplify such threats, the Board calls on Meta to immediately suspend Hun Sens Facebook page and Instagram account for six months," it wrote.

Meta complied, removing the video in response to the boards decision, which is binding under the organizations rules. The company had 60 days to respond to the boards non-binding recommendations.

Notably, Meta declined other Oversight Board recommendations in the case as well. The company opted not to clarify how its rules for public figures applies in contexts in which citizens are under continuing threat of retaliatory violence from their governments rather than a single incidence of violence.

The protocol is not designed for situations where a history of state violence or human rights restrictions have resulted in ongoing state restrictions on expressions for an indeterminate period of time, Meta wrote, referring to a policy it implemented in response the Oversight Boards recommendations in the suspension of former President Donald Trumps account. Applying the protocol in those circumstances could lead to an indefinite suspension of a public figures account, which (apart from fairness issues) could be detrimental to peoples ability to access information from and about their leaders and to express themselves using Metas platforms.

Similarly, Meta said it was assessing [the] feasibility of a board recommendation that it amend its newsworthiness policy to explicitly bar incitement of violence. It also said it was considering a recommendation that posts from heads of state and other government officials are prioritized for review by human moderators when being reviewed for inciting violence.

The company said it was "implementing in part two other recommendations in the case. The company agreed to make some product and/or operational guideline changes to aid in its review of long-form videos. But in response to a suggestion that the company commit to being more forthcoming about how it enforces its rules on the accounts of high-profile government officials, the company said there were some cases when it may continue to withhold details.

While we have shared details about enforcement actions on the accounts belonging to Hun Sen in this case, and on the accounts of former U.S. President Trump, there may be circumstances where privacy and security considerations weigh against Meta publicly sharing details about actions taken on an account.
Former schools Superintendent Ian Roberts may get one more paycheck from the Millcreek Township School District.

Roberts, now superintendent of Des Moines Public Schools in Iowa, "(met) expectations" in his role as Millcreek schools superintendent in 2022-23, according to a job evaluation approved by an 8-1 vote of the Millcreek Township School Board on Monday.

School directors unanimously tabled a vote on a performance bonus for Roberts for 2022-23 without comment.

Roberts' June 2020 contract with the district entitles him to salary and other compensation, including bonus pay, earned through his June 30 resignation date.

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Bonus pay of up to $15,000 annually is based on school rankings, student standardized test scores, student graduation rate, community relations and employee satisfaction, among other criteria, according to Roberts' contract.

Former Millcreek Township School District Superintendent Ian Roberts is shown in this 2020 photo.

Roberts was paid a bonus for each of his two previous years in the Millcreek Township School District, receiving $12,500 on Aug. 23, 2021, and $10,000 on Aug. 22, 2022, according to district records.

Annual performance bonuses for his predecessor, William Hall, were capped at $7,000. Hall's bonuses were based solely on the district's academic performance as measured by the Pennsylvania Department of Education's Pennsylvania School Performance Profile, according to his 2018 contract with the district.

There is no performance bonus in the district's contract with current schools Superintendent John Cavanagh. Cavanagh was hired to replace Roberts on July 17 at a starting salary of $170,000. His salary will increase to $175,000 retroactive to July 18 if he successfully completes the Pennsylvania Association of School Administrators' New Superintendents' Academy this school year.

Cavanagh will receive 2% salary increases in subsequent contract years.

Roberts' performance bonus for the 2020-21 school year raised his total compensation from the district to $192,500 for that year. His starting salary that year was $180,000.

Roberts earned $193,600 in 2021-22, including a 2% salary increase and the $10,000 performance bonus.

His salary in 2022-23 was $187,272 with any performance bonus yet to come.

Roberts' tenure in the district wasn't without controversy.

The school district paid $250,000 in June to settle a claim of "alleged unlawful treatment" by its former human resources director, Melody Ellington. The settlement agreement contained no specific information on the nature of Ellington's claim.

In July, the district's former director of elementary education, Joe Orlando, filed a lawsuit against the district challenging his demotion to sixth-grade teacher.

Legal issues: Ex-Millcreek schools official sues over demotion

$250,000 settlement: Millcreek schools pay ex-personnel chief

Contact Valerie Myers at vmyers@timesnews.com.

This article originally appeared on Erie Times-News: Will former Millcreek superintendent get a bonus? Board tables vote.
Further new development is headed for the Lusk District, where Boise State University and city officials plan to collaborate to build affordable housing, housing for the chronically homeless, student housing and commercial space near the universitys campus.

Heres a rundown of what the city and university are planning for the neighborhood south of the Boise River  including a multimillion-dollar property sale.

Where could land be redeveloped?

Boise and Boise State own close to five acres sandwiched between North Ninth Street, Sherwood Street, Morrison Drive and West Island Avenue. The land includes a Boise State-owned parking lot and commercial businesses.

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The Idaho State Board of Education approved an agreement on Aug. 23 that allows city officials and the university to redesign and rebuild the land close to downtown.

Developing this project is part of BSUs overall plan to address housing shortages for students and faculty and to locate needed services near campus, according to a memorandum from the university. The finished project would include housing, parking, retail, office and services uses, according to the memo.

A city news release said the mixed-use redevelopment would be innovative in design, environmentally sustainable, and most importantly, bring more than 300 affordable homes to our community.

The project would be built by J. Fisher Cos.. The Utah company is also developing an apartment complex at the intersection Franklin Road and Orchard Street, of which 10% will be set aside for families experiencing homelessness.

News of the sale and development plan was first reported by BoiseDev.

A view of 860 W. Sherwood St. looking south, with the Boise Depot in the background and Ann Morrison Park to the west.

How much would the project cost?

Jake Wood, director of affordable housing at J. Fisher, told the Idaho Statesman the redevelopment is expected to cost between $200 million and $300 million.

It is unclear how much the city or Boise State will invest in the project.

This is what leadership looks like, said Tommy Ahlquist, a developer and physician who is the co-chair of the Campaign to End Family Homelessness, an initiative that is part of Our Path Home, a public-private partnership. He spoke at a news conference on Monday. Its really nice to come to a place like today and to see the public sector, our nonprofits, the private sector all working together to solve a problem thats very difficult.

Would housing there be affordable?

Wood said the company uses a mixed-income model with its developments, and expects 10% of units to be rented at market rates, with the rest affordably designated.

Wood said, for his company, that means the rest of the units would be rented at 60% of area median income or lower. Thats the equivalent of $42,780 a year for a two-person household in Boise, and $37,440 for a one-person household, according to city figures.

There are expected to be at least 300 units on the property.

What properties does Boise own in the Lusk District?

Glen Kellerer, who manages the properties for Boise, told the Statesman the city owns three properties in the Lusk District: 1028 S. Lusk Street, 1020 S. Lusk St., and 1025 S. Capitol Blvd., which total 110 units, most of which are studio apartments. All of them are part of the property slated for redevelopment.

In recent years, Boise has instituted housing programs to combat homelessness and rising rents. City leaders have passed ordinances encouraging affordable housing development by offering incentives for developers, and Boise is the lead agency in Our Path Home, a public-private partnership aimed at addressing homelessness.

Whats happening to people who live there now?

For two years, the city has been working to relocate tenants in those buildings to other city-owned properties in preparation for the redevelopment project, Kellerer said. Most of the tenants have moved into a city-owned apartment building at 2717 S. Vista Ave., and about 40 units remain rented on the site that will have to be emptied.

Rents at the Lusk properties are generally between $350 to $380 a month, Kellerer said, noting that tenants will not have to pay more for a five-year period if they move into another city apartment, even if it has more expensive rent.

The city-owned properties are only available to income-eligible tenants making 80% or less of area median income. For a two-person household, thats an annual income of $57,050. For a one-person household, thats an income of $49,950, according to city figures.

When would they be built?

Wood said his company hopes to start construction before the end of 2024. The project is expected to take two years to build.

What would be done for homeless people?

The State Board of Education also approved an $8.1 million sale of a Boise State apartment complex to Boise, which the city plans to use for a permanent supportive housing development for families experiencing homelessness, said university Deputy General Counsel Nicole Pantera at the education boards meeting.

The two buildings are at 860 W. Sherwood St. and are known as the University Park Apartments. They are just south of the site J. Fisher Cos. plans to redevelop. Built in 1940, they have 47 housing units and 65 parking spots, according to a university memo.

Boise officials and Boise State University plan to redevelop a block of the Lusk District, adjacent to campus. Boise State owns the parking lot to the north, in orange, while the city owns the property in green. The Capitol Campus project could bring new retail, apartments, office and parking areas.

It is unclear how many families would be able to move into the apartments.

As part of the deal, the city would continue to lease the apartments to students through June 2024, after which families experiencing homelessness could move in.

Both projects are part of the citys plan to reinvigorate the area, where the city owns over 100 housing units. The city calls its housing units there the Capitol Campus.

The property sale and agreement to pursue a joint redevelopment were on Tuesdays Boise City Council agenda. A memo from a city attorney, Mary Grant, called the property sale the cornerstone of the redevelopment project.

What is permanent supportive housing?

Permanent supportive housing is a concept that provides households with help, either through rental assistance or supportive services, according to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.

The concept is designed to provide stability for people experiencing homelessness by offering housing, health care and other services, according to the National Health Care for the Homeless Council.

Boise and its partner agencies in the Treasure Valley already have two such housing complexes: Valor Pointe, which provides supportive housing for veterans at 4203 West State St., and New Path Community Housing, at 2200 W. Fairview Ave. Planning is underway to expand New Path by adding close to one hundred more units on land next door.
(The Hill)  Gender-affirming treatments, including puberty blockers, hormones and surgeries, are now inaccessible for transgender minors in much of the South because of new laws that heavily restrict or ban such care for youths younger than 18.

Since 2021, lawmakers in 12 of the 16 states considered regionally South by the U.S. Census Bureau have passed legislation that prevents medical professionals from administering gender-affirming health care to transgender youths, accounting for more than half of bans enacted nationwide. Laws passed in states including Florida and Missouri also restrict access to care for some transgender adults.

Four Southern states  Delaware, Maryland, South Carolina and Virginia  plus Washington, D.C., have not enacted a law or policy banning gender-affirming health care. That isnt for a lack of trying, however. Bills that were introduced this year in Virginia and South Carolina failed to advance through the respective state Legislature before the end of the session.

Democratic governors in Kentucky, Louisiana and North Carolina this year vetoed their states gender-affirming health care bans but were ultimately overpowered by Republicans in their respective states Legislature. Arkansass GOP-controlled Legislature in 2021 similarly voted to override then-Gov. Asa Hutchinsons veto of the states first-in-the-nation ban.

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Texas court temporarily pauses ban on gender-affirming care for minors

It isnt entirely surprising that the South, where a majority of states have either Republican trifectas or conservative supermajorities in the legislature, has become a breeding ground for legislation restricting access to transgender health care, said Logan Casey, a senior policy researcher at the Movement Advancement Project.

Many of the states in the South are effectively a single-party government, he said, adding that, although most voters have vocalized their support of LGBTQ-inclusive policies, gerrymandering and voter suppression in the South have made it more difficult to vote in elected officials who actually share their preferences and their beliefs.

Recent surveys suggest majorities of voters oppose legislation banning gender-affirming health care for transgender minors, and more than 60 percent of voters in a Data for Progress poll conducted in March said there is too much legislation aimed at limiting the rights of transgender and gay people in America.

Weve seen a long history of the South being used as a laboratory for anti-LGBT legislation, said Adam Polanski, director of communications at the Campaign for Southern Equality.

Theres some level of experimentation thats going on in the South because its so easy to pass things thanks to its lopsided state legislatures, he said.

The Campaign for Southern Equality, which advocates for LGBTQ rights in the South, estimates that roughly 90 percent of transgender young people in the South currently live in a state where a ban on gender-affirming care has been passed, meaning, for many families with transgender children, the closest health care provider may be hours  and hundreds of miles  away from their homes.

A program launched earlier this year by the group, the Southern Trans Youth Emergency Project, has already distributed more than $250,000 to families to help cover the cost of things like travel expenses, Polanski said.

When your state legislature can just steamroll over you, despite your honest sharing of your story and expressing the needs of your family, it can feel really demoralizing. Its important to note that [LGBTQ people] are here and theyre fighting back, he said.

Southern appeals courts rule on side of health care bans

Most gender-affirming health care bans enacted in the South have been challenged in court, and a majority have been temporarily blocked by court orders. In June, Arkansass ban became the first such law to be ruled unconstitutional and struck down. The state is appealing that decision.

In July, however, a panel of the Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals accepted a request by Tennessees attorney general to lift an injunction issued by a lower court, becoming the first federal court to allow a ban on gender-affirming health care to take effect. Six days later, the same court lifted an injunction on Kentuckys ban.

Carlos Santana issues apology for anti-trans remarks on stage

Alabama this week became the third state in the nation to have its previously-blocked gender-affirming health care ban reinstated. The 11th Circuit Court of Appeals on Monday lifted an injunction that had for over a year prevented Alabama officials from enforcing a 2022 law that makes it a felony  punishable by up to 10 years in prison  for doctors to provide puberty blockers or hormone replacement therapy to transgender people younger than 19.

The use of these medications in general  let alone for children  almost certainly is not deeply rooted in our nations history and tradition, a three-judge panel for the 11th Circuit wrote Monday, citing the Supreme Court decision overturning Roe v. Wade.

Recent court decisions highlight that, especially in the South, access to care can change at the drop of a hat, said Casey, of the Movement Advancement Project.

Its really leaving transgender youth and their families in a really scary place of uncertainty and fear and precarity not knowing whats going to happen tomorrow  if any court-based relief or anything like that is going to vanish the next day, he said. Thats really not a way to be able to build a life and thats not what kids need to be able to thrive.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to YourCentralValley.com.
The New Hampshire Attorney Generals Office is carefully reviewing the legal issues involved in a long-shot effort by some Republicans in the state to keep former President Donald Trump off the ballot in 2024, the office announced on Tuesday.

Bryant Corky Messner  an attorney and prominent Republican who ran on Trumps endorsement as the states 2020 U.S. Senate nominee  has publicly questioned Trumps eligibility to run for president, citing Section 3 of the 14th Amendment. The section disqualifies those whove taken an oath to support the Constitution from holding office again if theyve engaged in insurrection or rebellion against the United States or given aid or comfort to the enemies thereof.

But other Republicans in the state have pushed back.

I dont think the effort to limit the options for our primary voters has any legs whatsoever, Chris Ager, chair of the state Republican Party, told POLITICO.

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Now, the states top legal and election officials are weighing in.

Both the Secretary of States Office and the Attorney Generals Office are aware of public discourse regarding the potential applicability of Section Three of the Fourteenth Amendment to the United States Constitution to the upcoming presidential election cycle, New Hampshire Attorney General John Formella and Secretary of State David Scanlan said in a joint statement on Tuesday, calling out misinformation implying that Scanlans office had already taken a position on the issue.

The statement comes after the Secretary of States Office was bombarded with calls on Monday, according to NBC News, after conservative talk show host Charlie Kirk told listeners that New Hampshire was trying to block Trump from the ballot.

Neither the Secretary of States Office nor the Attorney Generals Office has taken any position regarding the potential applicability of Section Three of the Fourteenth Amendment to the United States Constitution to the upcoming presidential election cycle, the statement says.
The New Jersey Office of Emergency Management is on the road again. Members of the states Task Force One team are en route to South Carolina ahead of Hurricane Idalia.

The agency, shared on social media Monday that it had received orders from the Federal Emergency Management Agency to send 45 people and 16 vehicles south to prepare to respond to the category 1 hurricane, which is bearing down on Florida.

NJOEM personnel are deploying to Columbia, South Carolina ahead of the hurricane's projected landfall.

When could Idalia hit Florida?

The storm is expected to make landfall along Floridas Gulf Coast on Wednesday and could reach category three strength, with sustained winds of 111 miles per hour.

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Labor Day weekend imperiled? Will Hurricane Franklin path, Idalia storm put a damper on Labor Day in NJ?

When else has NJ responded?

New Jersey Task Force 1 packs equipment that will be traveling to Louisiana as part of the rescue and recovery efforts following Hurricane Laura in August 2020.

This isnt the first time the team has been called on to help. They were deployed to Miami in 2021 to assist with rescue efforts after the deadly Champlain Towers condo collapse.

Members are trained in technical rescue for deployments at natural or manmade disasters including hurricanes, floods, explosions and earthquakes.

In recent years they have been sent to assist in the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey in Texas, Hurricane Irma in Florida and Hurricane Laura in Louisiana.

Katie Sobko covers the New Jersey Statehouse. Email: sobko@northjersey.com

This article originally appeared on NorthJersey.com: When Hurricane Idalia hits Florida, NJ prepared to help
Naples city officials met today to discuss their plans to prepare for Tropical Storm Idalia, including declaring a local state of emergency.

The storm system is currently in the waters east of Cancun, Mexico, and is projected to move into the Gulf of Mexico, where it will strengthen into a hurricane.

Forecasters predict Idalia will make landfall as a Category 3 hurricane along the Gulf Coast of Florida, impacting the Panhandle.

Local state of emergency

Naples Mayor Teresa Heitmann will declare a state of emergency effective at 5 p.m. Monday, "as a precaution to ensure city staff have the tools necessary to quickly respond to any impacts from the storm."

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This follows Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis' declaration of a state of emergency for 46 counties, including Collier and Lee.

"The city manager and mayor met this morning to discuss preparedness and potential declarations," city spokesperson Monique Barnhart said. "The city manager also met with city staff this morning to discuss potential impacts, preparedness actions, and communication plans. City staff have been preparing city facilities and equipment, topping off fuel, clearing storm drains, lowering lake levels, and securing loose items."

How to prepare

City officials urge residents to prepare an emergency kit filled with first aid supplies, necessary medications, water and food for 72 hours, and flashlights. Officials also suggest residents know where the closest shelters are, including pet shelters.

"We anticipate higher than normal high tides which will affect storm surge predictions," Barnhart said. "We urge all those in low lying areas that typically experience flooding during high tides, to please make necessary precautions; do not walk or drive into flood waters."

Grocery stores in Collier County still have hurricane supplies in stock as of Monday afternoon. An employee at Publix at Brooks Village has confirmed the store is "fully stocked and still receiving trucks."

"We urge residents to focus on staying connected with us by subscribing to our emails, follow us on social media, and visit our website," Barnhart said.

The city has created a special website for Tropical Storm Idalia: www.naplesgov.com/hurricane/page/tropical-storm-idalia-updates.

This article originally appeared on Naples Daily News: Naples declares local state of emergency ahead of Hurricane Idalia
Opinion: Heres the reason people tell me they want to buy an AR-15. And its simply ludicrous

Editors Note: Michael Fanone is a CNN law enforcement analyst who served for 20 years with the Washington, DC, Metropolitan Police Department. The views expressed here are his own. Read more opinion at CNN.

No weapon has been more in the public eye in America of late than the AR-15, in large part because of its tragic role in some of this countrys deadliest shootings.

The AR-15 has the dubious distinction of being Americas most popular semi-automatic rifle. Im more familiar with the gun than most people: I own one. And one thing I know for sure is that this weapon doesnt belong in the hands of the average civilian.

Officer Michael Fanone attends The 15th Annual CNN Heroes: All-Star Tribute at American Museum of Natural History on December 12, 2021, in New York. - Mike Coppola/Getty Images

Ive owned multiple firearms for most of my life. I spent two decades in the Washington Metropolitan Police Department in a number of different roles, as a street cop walking the beat and on various special mission units.

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Im also a card-carrying member of the National Rifle Association. And when I wasnt at my job doing police work, I worked part-time for several years in firearm sales as well as training law enforcement officers, members of the military and civilians.

I purchased my different guns over the years for the same reason that you might purchase a flathead screwdriver along with a Phillips screwdriver: Each one serves a different purpose. As an avid hunter, Ive got a gun that I use for turkey hunting, one that I use for waterfowl and one I use to hunt deer and larger game like elk.

I purchased my AR-15 because I was assigned one as part of my police duties. But officers werent allowed to take our department-issued weapons home. I felt it was my responsibility to become proficient with any weapon Id been assigned, so I bought one. And Ive spent hundreds of hours training so that I could properly use it.

Ive sold guns at big box retailers and Ive also sold firearms at a small retail gun store. Some gun buyers have been misled into thinking that the AR-15 is somehow practical for self-defense. But frankly, its the last gun that I would recommend for that purpose.

Usually, the motivation for purchasing the AR-15 is simple: People want one because they want one. Most times, the person who buys an AR-15 comes into the store already knowing that they intend to purchase one.

Ive pressed some customers about why they want an AR-15, but no one could ever come up with a legitimate justification for needing that particular weapon.

Some members of the tinfoil hat brigade have come up with the reply, We need these weapons because we want to be effective against the government if it becomes tyrannical. Thats part of our Second Amendment right. Personally, I think thats ludicrous, but it has become an increasingly popular justification for purchasing a semi-automatic rifle.

The AR-15 was given to law enforcement because more and more frequently police officers were encountering these types of weapons on the street and finding that they were outgunned. One example that springs to mind is the famous 1997 North Hollywood, California, shootout at the Bank of America.

In that incident, two individuals clad in body armor held up a bank in the Los Angeles neighborhood. Police who responded at the scene literally had to run to a nearby gun store to purchase more powerful weapons, because they were using 9 mm pistols, while the bad guys were armed with semi-automatic rifles.

The standoff was one of the most infamous gun battles in American history, with 11 officers wounded  luckily, none fatally  and both robbery suspects shot dead. While its an extreme example, it is in many ways the situation encountered by officers all across this country: Police simply are outgunned against semi- and fully automatic firearms.

The bullet that comes out of the barrel of an AR-15 style semi-automatic rifle can easily penetrate the target  the intruder or whatever person you are using deadly force to defend yourself or others from.

Pallbearers carry the casket of Nevaeh Bravo during a funeral service at Sacred Heart Catholic Church on June 2 in Uvalde, Texas. Bravo was killed in the shooting at Robb Elementary School. - Eric Gay/AP

But it also will go through the wall behind that person, and potentially through that room and into the next wall. That power and accuracy are useful for military purposes, which is obviously what they were designed for. But its far more power than should ever be in the hands of the average civilian.

The bullet fired by the AR-15 is capable of defeating the average police officers body armor, like a knife slicing through butter. SWAT teams and some of the more specialized units typically are equipped with level IV Kevlar or steel-plated armor, which would stop maybe two or three direct hits, but eventually body armor breaks down after being hit with multiple rounds.

A person wielding an AR-15 has a range beyond 300 yards. For an officer armed with a 9 mm pistol, hitting a target beyond 50 yards is going to be difficult, even for the most accomplished marksman. A bullet fired by an AR-15 travels at three times the velocity as one fired by a 9 mm handgun. And magazines that can feed dozens of rounds into the weapon in the space of minutes clearly were meant for use only on the battlefield.

The prevalence of these weapons means police sometimes are overmatched, as we saw with the mass shooting in Uvalde, Texas, last month. In a situation where you have small children near the shooter, you want to remove the threat as quickly as possible.

But we all saw the tragic consequences at that elementary school, where police waited for more than an hour before engaging with the teenage gunman armed with an AR-15 who killed 19 young children and two teachers.

I have no doubt that police in Uvalde wish they had had weapons as powerful as the one carried by the shooter who snuffed out the lives of the victims in that school. But a far better outcome would have been if the shooter didnt have an AR-15 in the first place.

Now that Im no longer on the police force, my AR-15 collects dust in my gun safe. Rifle ranges that permit the type of training required to use this weapon system effectively are few and far between and the cost of ammunition exceeding a dollar per round is more than this guy can afford. I no longer need it. But neither, to be honest, do most of the people flocking to guns stores to buy one.

Banning these powerful weapons from the civilian marketplace is a no-brainer, as are universal background checks. Neither move is going to solve all the gun problems that we have, but it would be a start.

And outlawing these AR-15s would not require confiscating them from people who already have them. Once youve made these weapons illegal, anyone found with one would be subject to arrest, since possession of these weapons would be a crime. I think its likely that you would see a lot of people opting to turn them in.

A makeshift memorial surrounds the Robb Elementary School sign following the mass shooting at the Uvalde, Texas, school on May 26. - Brandon Bell/Getty Images

If banning them outright seems like too extreme a solution to be politically palatable, heres another option: Reclassify semi-automatic rifles as Class 3 firearms.

That would mean that someone wanting to purchase an AR-15 would have to go through a background check, fingerprinting and review by an official from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives  a process that takes anywhere from 12 to 16 months. And since Class 3 weapons cant be purchased by anyone younger than 21, it would solve the issue of emotionally unstable 18-year-olds buying them.

A Class 3 firearm reclassification would also make those who are approved to purchase these weapons subject to an annual check that they are complying with federal regulations regarding secure storage of the firearm, and to confirm their licensing and other paperwork is up to date. All of these hoops and hurdles are sure to reduce the civilian demand for these weapons.

I cant overstate how dangerous it is to have semi-automatic weapons like the AR-15 in the hands of civilians. Our public officials have it within their power to help make it harder for people who shouldnt have these weapons to get them.

A police officer should never have to worry about being outgunned by the bad guy theyre protecting the public against.

This essay has been updated to note that the assailants in the 1997 bank robbery in California were armed with automatic weapons.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
To tap growth opportunities in the region, distributors should consider value-added services (VAS) at a time the Middle East and African freight and logistics market is predicted to record a CAGR of about 6% between 2023 and 2028.

Offering value-added services should be integral to any distribution companys business model, writes Salem Machaka, Infor VP of Global Professional Services.

Value-added services go beyond the immediate delivery of goods and provide additional customer benefits. These services can range from providing technical support to offering customised packaging solutions. By offering value-added services, distribution companies can increase customer satisfaction, build loyalty, and make customer relationships sticky. This can lead to increased sales and profits over time.

Competition is fierce

One of the essential benefits of offering value-added services is that it helps to differentiate a company from its competitors. With manufacturers deploying disintermediation strategies, the emergence and growth of large e-commerce platforms and larger competitors, competition is fierce.

A company can stand out from the competition by providing a greater range of additional services. This can be especially beneficial for smaller companies needing more resources to compete with larger companies on price.

Examples of value-added services

Customised packaging  Companies can offer customised packaging to meet the needs of their customers. This could include specialised boxes, labels, and other materials.

Technical support  Companies can provide technical and expert support to customers that need help. This could include advising customers on how to use a product or troubleshooting any issues that arise during use.

Kitting, assembly, and light manufacturing  The kitting process combines multiple products into a simple, easy-to-pick-and-use package. The process works by combining commonly purchased products into a separate sellable SKU. Assembly takes different components and builds sellable units. Light manufacturing can start with a stock product and modify it to suit the customers needs. This allows the distributor to stock fewer product variations, freeing up space and capital. Providing these services can increase sales and drive customer loyalty.

Vendor managed inventory  VMI is a service that is mutually beneficial to the customer and the distributor. With VMI, inventory is housed at the customers location but is managed by the distributor. This can take several different forms, from bins to vending machines. With commonly used items like gloves, safety knives, replacement blades, and eye and ear protection, vending machines can be kept on the customer site to ensure each employee has the tools needed to do their job. Employees no longer need to track down a supervisor to unlock a cabinet to get these consumables. Customers can monitor the use of the consumables to track spending. The customer can purchase cases ahead of time or pay for them as they are consumed. As items are consumed, additional items can be auto-ordered without human intervention.

Rental and service  Distributors can rent items to customers that do not wish to purchase them. High-value and seldomly used tools are commonly rented. Customers will rent long- or short-term based on their business models. Field service can be provided to customers that purchase equipment but do not have the expertise to service it themselves.

A best-in-class industry-specific enterprise resource planning (ERP) solution is critical for efficiently delivering value-added services. Distributors face supply chain disruption, aggressive competition, and labor shortages, which make providing the products and services people desire increasingly challenging.

These are just a few examples of value-added services that industrial distributors can offer. By providing these services, companies can increase customer satisfaction, build loyalty, and ultimately increase profits.-- TradeArabia News Service
SIOUX FALLS, S.D (KELO)  People across South Dakota are rallying behind a family facing a difficult situation described as a parents worst nightmare.

Charlie Murano is 15 months old and recently was diagnosed with PNET, a rare, aggressive form of cancer that attacks the brain. Now the family is doing what they can to Fight for Charlie.

Its been the longest and the fastest two weeks of our life, said Charlies mother, Abby Murano.

Abby and Joel Murano and their son Max, welcomed the newest member of their family, Charlie, in May of last year.

Charlie was always the happiest-go-lucky kid, he, he was the easy baby. He was the baby that slept through the night at two months. And he just always had this like calming and just really enjoyable personality, Abby told Nexstars KELO.

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NASCAR driver awake, alert and mobile following terrifying crash at Daytona

But a few weeks ago, the Muranos began to notice Charlie displaying signs of paralysis. After doctors did scans of his brain, they found rapidly progressing tumors attacking his brain and spinal cord. Charlie was diagnosed with PNET, a rare aggressive cancer.

Cancer in Charlies age group is very rare in and of itself. And were being told that its very possible that the type of cancer that Charlie has, he may be the only child diagnosed with that in his age group this year, said Joel.

This is definitely a parents worst nightmare. When we learned that it was rare, and things were elevated very quickly. You know, we prepared ourselves for that. And this was just harder than we could have ever imagined, Abby said.

For the last two weeks, the family has been at the Sanford Childrens Hospital, where little Charlie has been undergoing radiation treatments.

The radiation treatment seemed to be easing the pain and discomfort that was associated with the pressure on his brain and spinal cord. Every day, he keeps getting incrementally better and regaining his functions and his abilities, Joel explained.

While this experience has been difficult, the Muranos said the support they have received from doctors, family and the community has been remarkable.

Former Navy SEAL who claims he killed Osama bin Laden arrested: report

Now we have a diagnosis, a preliminary diagnosis, and we have a plan to fight this, Abby told KELO. And were very optimistic with all the support and the love and the prayers. And we have faith that Charlies gonna get through this.

The Murano family plans to continue Charlies treatment at the Fairview Childrens Hospital in Minnesota.

Joels brother Doug started a GoFundMe to raise funds for the family. It has since raised more than $42,000.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA.
Hurricane Idalia is strengthening and headed toward South Carolina, which means Myrtle Beach-area residents might be thinking how it could affect their homes. But your risk for flooding depends on where you live.

Idalia strengthened to a hurricane early Tuesday morning as it heads to the Florida coast, according to the National Weather Service Hurricane Center. Current models has the storm reaching South Carolina around early Thursday.

Horry and Georgetown counties are prone to flooding because of the double whammy of being close to the ocean and packed with rivers and wetlands.

These are the Horry and Georgetown county places most likely to flood. The locations are taken from the zip codes with the highest average current cost of flood insurance, according to FEMA data.

Zip code 29585: Pawleys Island and Litchfield by the Sea

Homeowners in this area pay an average $1,216 a year for insurance to protect against inland flooding. In October 2022, a portion of Pawleys Island pier washed into sea. That month, Gov. Henry McMasters office described the damage on Pawleys Island in a letter to the White House.

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A National Weather Service post-storm survey on Pawleys Island found mud lines more than 4 feet high (above ground level) along Doyle Avenue, almost 3 feet high on Hazard Street, and more than 2 feet high on southern portions of Springs Avenue, the letter states.

Zip code 29576: Murrells Inlet

FEMA data said it costs Murrells Inlet residents an average of $1,023 annually for insurance in case the salt marsh and Waccamaw River get waterlogged. Due to damage from Hurricane Ian, the goats on Goat Island near the Murrells Inlet MarshWalk did not return in 2023.

Zip code 29582: North Myrtle Beach

With flood insurance costing $909 a year, North Myrtle Beach residents see low lying areas flooding, even during heavy rain storms. The Cherry Grove community felt the brunt of Hurricane Ians storm surges in 2022, damaging the Cherry Grove pier and washing out sand dunes.

In 2020, Hurricane Isaias smashed into North Myrtle Beach and caused $2.4 million-worth of damages along with dune damage to Cherry Grove and other parts of the city.
New Hampshire residents will soon see former President Trumps mug shot in a new ad from Tell It Like It Is, the super PAC backing Republican presidential candidate Chris Christie.

The 30-second ad titled Winning Again features a series of clips of Trump, including a photo of his mug shot, which was taken last week at the Fulton County Jail in Georgia after he surrendered in the states election interference case.

Tired of the drama, the distractions, the lies? Its time for conservatives to win again, a narrator says as the photo is shown.

The ad goes on to tout the former New Jersey governors actions as a former prosecutor, including his conviction of child pornographers and corrupt politicians.

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A successful blue-state governor, the narrator continues. Christie took on the teachers union and won, turned around Jerseys most violent city, got Democrats to cut taxes. A real conservative  Christie tells the truth and hell beat Joe Biden  easily.

The ad is part of a $400,000 media buy that will air statewide beginning Friday on broadcast, cable and digital platforms in New Hampshire, the super PAC said in a statement.

Trumps mug shot last week made him the first U.S. president in history, past or present, known to have his mug shot taken, a condition of his surrender in Georgia where he faces several charges over an alleged scheme to overturn the 2020 presidential election results in the state.

Criticism of Trump has been a large part of Christies presidential campaign as he has urged his GOP rivals to do the same.

The ad comes amid Christies campaigns efforts to garner support in New Hampshire, which is seen by many as a crucial state to win in the GOP presidential primary. A recent Emerson College Polling survey found Christie making headway in the state, surpassing Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, who has mostly polled in second place behind Trump.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
The House Democratic caucus on Monday walked off the floor of the lower chamber to protest a disciplinary vote against Rep. Justin Jones, sparking a scene remarkably similar to legislative protests earlier this year in which the freshman Democrat was expelled from the General Assembly.

Lawmakers voted 70-20 to discipline Jones, D-Nashville, after House Speaker Cameron Sexton , R-Crossville, twice ruled Jones out of order during the House floor session Monday afternoon for what Sexton saw as Jones speaking off topic on the bills at hand.

The disciplinary vote meant Jones was silenced for the remainder of the floor session, though he could cast votes. A second vote during this special session could lead to a three-day silencing.

The Democratic caucus left the floor en masse in what they said was solidarity and frustration with unfair application of House rules.

Rep. Justin Jones, D-Nashville, looks on as House Republicans vote to silence him during session at State Capitol Building in Nashville , Tenn., Monday, Aug. 28, 2023.

Republican lawmakers attempted to get the House floor session back on track after the Democrats left, as members of the gallery above erupted in anger with yells of "racists" and "fascists."

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Sexton had gaveled Jones out of order during Monday debate in what has become a frequent interaction between the House leader and the freshman Nashville Democrat, who visibly riles members of the supermajority while regularly challenging their bills in floor speeches.

Jones had planned to introduce a letter calling for a vote of no confidence in Sexton at the end of the floor session.

Monday updates Follow for the latest details from Tennessee's special session

"The House is out of order under Cameron Sexton's leadership. This is very disheartening, this is very troubling. This is a step toward authoritarianism, and we should all be troubled by this," Jones said. "Our Democratic caucus was united. We walked out because that's a charade, a sham happening in there. And the people are united in challenging authoritarianism."

The Monday vote came under controversial rules House Republicans passed last week that allow new disciplinary actions to be taken against members for decorum issues on the floor. House Democrats last week decried the rules, arguing House Republicans through their supermajority hold the power to define what might be out of order.

More: Inside the meeting where Tennessee House leadership adopted controversial rules on signs

The problem here is you have the discretion to say what is or isnt out of order, said House Minority Leader Karen Camper, D-Memphis, said to Sexton. Members were asking what was out of order. It appeared to me, the little bit I did hear, is the member was trying to make an analogy with respect to the bill.

The vote against Jones on Monday threw Democrats' previous objections to rules changes in sharp relief. His Democratic colleagues tried to get clarity on the House floor about what specifically Jones said that was out of order.

At least one lawmaker asked for a transcript of what Jones said, which Sexton said wasn't required under the rules.

Rep. Justin Pearson, D-Memphis, rose to point out that Rep. Gino Bulso, R-Brentwood, had been gaveled out of order twice while presenting a different bill. But the House clerk argued Sexton had issued first an unofficial warning to Bulso before finding him out of order.

This explanation appeared to infuriate the public gallery, and Democrats on the floor.

As the vote went down, the crowd screamed at Sexton, yelling, This is a fascist state! and Youre racist!

Chants only grew louder as state troopers began swarming the gallery to clear it. Demonstrators stayed in their seats as troopers began asking them to leave, but slowly cleared out into the halls to continue chanting.

Meanwhile, in the Democrats absence, House Republicans passed through House Bill 7073, a Sexton-sponsored bill that would allow some teenagers to be sentenced as adults in criminal courts. Criminal justice advocates last week testified against the bill, arguing it would have negative effects on rehabilitation efforts for young people who are still maturing.

Prior to the Jones discipline vote, the House passed a number of bills related to mental health funding and providing firearm storage locks. The majority of the bills passed with bipartisan support, though Democrats often cast their votes through gritted teeth, arguing the proposed changes were an anemic response to the problem of gun violence in Tennessee communitie.

"There are no pats on the back or moral victories for passing legislation that actually isnt going to make our children safer," Pearson said.

Related: Free speech or orderly business: House sign rules remain blocked, judge rules

This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Rep. Justin Jones slams House vote to silence him in TN special session
Former Los Angeles City Council Member and Los Angeles County Supervisor Mark Ridley-Thomas was sentenced to 42 months in prison on conspiracy, bribery as well as mail and wire fraud convictions on Monday.

Ridley-Thomas was convicted in March for a scheme that was executed with former University of Southern California School of Social Work Dean Marilyn Louise Flynn wherein the then County Supervisor sent the school county contracts in exchange for, direct and indirect financial benefits.

As a part of the scheme, Ridley-Thomas sought post-graduate admission, a full scholarship and employment for his son, Sebastian, who was the subject of an internal sexual harassment investigation by the California State Assembly where he had resigned as a representative.

The scheme also funneled $100,000 of campaign funds to Sebastian through the school via Flynn to a non-profit founded by Sebastian.

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In exchange, the senior Ridley-Thomas amended a county contract through which a USC telehealth clinic would provide services to county referred patients.

Prosecutors described the scheme as a "shakedown" in a sentencing memo where the government sought a 72-month sentence.

Thomas must surrender to authorities by Nov. 13 and the conviction is being appealed, according to reports.

Timeline: Here's how racist leaked audio dismantled the Los Angeles City Council

Ciudad sin Angeles: LA politicians have track records of scandals

The City of Angels has seen more than its share of scandal at 200 N. Spring Street in recent years.

Last year, a racism scandal rocked the city's leadership after a leaked audio recording spurred fury and protest. The incident led to the resignation of then-City Council President Nury Martinez and a powerful labor leader, Ron Herrera.

Long-time Los Angeles politician Kevin de Leon became the center of a political firestorm in the wake of the scandal but has not resigned his seat representing the 14th district on the east side of the city.

In June, prosecutors charged Curren Price, Jr. with five counts of embezzlement of government funds, three counts of perjury, and two counts of conflict of interest. Price stepped down from the council but did not resign and is still listed as the representative for the ninth district.

Former Mayor Eric Garcetti, who left office in December, faced a series of controversies, including sexual harassment allegations against one of his former top aides.

According to Jaime Regalado, former executive director of the Pat Brown Institute of Public Affairs at California State University, Los Angeles, the series of scandals has caused a cumulative effect on residents and "makes the whole body politic of L.A. look rotten, look illegal."

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Los Angeles politician Mark Ridley-Thomas sentenced to 42 months in prison
Two children play a game at the Boys & Girls Club of Standing Rock in McLaughlin. The club provides a safe place for children to hang out but also to get healthy meals during the summer.

At a time when an estimated 25,000 South Dakota children struggle with hunger, the state decided against applying for a federal program that would have provided $7.5 million to feed low-income kids this summer.

The federal funding was available through a program called Pandemic Electronic Benefits Transfer (P-EBT). It would have helped an estimated 63,000 South Dakota children receive healthy food during summer 2023.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture funding effort began during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. Congress recently approved it as a permanent program.

The extension was seen as a victory for families and groups that advocate policies to keep children fed. Rather than requiring families or children to travel to specific meal sites to get food, the P-EBT program provides payment cards to families so they can purchase eligible healthy foods at any participating store at any time.

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The offices of Gov. Kristi Noem and South Dakota Department of Education told News Watch the state is not applying because summer meal programs are already offered and its too challenging to administer the program.

That decision drew the ire of Sioux Falls advocate Cathy Brechtelsbauer, who has fought hunger for decades as leader of the organization Bread for the World.

Our kids in South Dakota are missing out on $7.5 million worth of food, and its not like theyre necessarily getting it someplace else, she said. This is like taking food away from kids, and I hope we dont want to be that kind of state.

South Dakota is one of seven states that did not apply.

Noem spokesman Ian Fury did not provide News Watch an interview with the governor but did send an email with a statement.

Federal money often comes with strings attached, and more of it is often not a good thing, Fury wrote. Because of South Dakotas record low unemployment rate, our robust existing food programs, and the administrative burden associated with running this program, we declined these particular federal dollars.

When asked to explain the administrative challenges surrounding the program, Department of Education spokeswoman Nancy Van Der Weide said the state found it difficult to obtain enough information about children to administer the program effectively, even though the state did participate in Pandemic EBT in 2020 and 2021.

Van Der Weide, who also declined an interview request, wrote to News Watch in an email that, Information about individual students is not shared to state government entities en masse. This made it very difficult for the state government to get enough details to adequately administer the program.

The children who attend the Boys & Girls Club of Standing Rock help tend to a summer garden where they learn about, and also consume, healthy vegetables.

Brechtelsbauer was shocked that the state was rejecting federal money based on perceived challenges in administering the program.

That just blows my mind, she said. How can we think like that when were talking about kids needing food? Why cant we handle things as well as 43 other states?

Van Der Weide said the South Dakota Summer Food Service Program provided children with more than 303,000 meals and about 20,500 snacks at 83 disbursement sites during summer 2022.

And yet, according to Feeding South Dakota, about 24,750 South Dakota children, or about 11% of the school-aged population, remained food insecure in the state in 2022.

The group defines food insecurity as the consistent lack of food to have a healthy life because of your economic situation.

Feeding South Dakota provided about 8,800 meals to children in Sioux Falls and Rapid City through its backpack program over 10 weeks this summer. It also offered food to needy people in 91 other communities through monthly visits by its mobile food unit, according to Stacey Andernacht, communications director for the nonprofit.

Van Der Weide did not answer a question posed by News Watch about whether the state would apply for P-EBT funding in coming years.

Finding the money to afford healthy food, at a time when prices for food and fuel are on the rise, is difficult everywhere but especially challenging in rural and reservation areas, Andernacht said.

When free meals for all public school students ended in fall 2022, the agency saw a 20% rise in usage of its mobile food pantries, which served roughly 13,000 families each month from July 2022 to June 2023, Andernacht said.

Students who qualify as low-income can still receive free or reduced-price meals at school. But the end of the pandemic free meal program caused many non-qualifying South Dakota children to go without meals at school or fall into arrears in trying to pay.

South Dakota did participate in the Pandemic EBT food program in 2020 and 2021, receiving about $80 million.

But the state did not participate in the program in summer 2022 or 2023, said Kelsey Boone, a policy analyst at the Food Research & Action Center, a group that battles hunger among adults and children.

On the child nutrition side of things, summer is the hungriest time of year for students, she said. Not having enough access to food is detrimental to physical health, development and well-being.

Marcella Yellow Hammer of McLaughlin, S.D., is shown in a family snapshot with her grandchildren. Yellow Hammer not only runs the Boys & Girls Club of Standing Rock, but also cares for some of her grandchildren at her home.

Marcella Yellow Hammer knows firsthand the challenges that families in north-central South Dakota deal with in keeping their children fed.

Yellow Hammer, 76, runs the Boys & Girls Club of Standing Rock, a youth services facility that provides a safe place for youth in the McLaughlin area to have opportunities for education, recreation and  during the summer  a healthy breakfast or lunch.

According to the U.S. Census, Corson County has the second-lowest median household income in South Dakota at roughly $38,000 a year. About 45% of the county population is under 18 years of age, and 42% of the population lives in poverty.

This summer, the clubs summer meals program has attracted up to 30 children a day, and yet the community need remains far from met, Yellow Hammer said.

These parents are single mothers, single dads, single grandmothers, and many are not working, she said.

I know one woman who told me, My kids come to the Boys & Girls Club because if they stayed home, they wouldnt have anything to eat, so they come to the club and get a meal, and Im very thankful for it.

This article was produced by South Dakota News Watch, a non-profit journalism organization located online at sdnewswatch.org.

This article originally appeared on Sioux Falls Argus Leader: SD rejects federal food funding despite 25,000 children going hungry
A Springfield man was sentenced to three years in federal prison Monday on charges that he sold an AR-15 rifle stolen from a house in January.

Dalton Smith, 29, was sentenced in U.S. District Court for the Central District of Illinois by Senior Judge Sue Myerscough on one count of selling a stolen weapon and one count of being a felon in possession of a weapon for his role in the sale of a stolen Colt AR-15 style rifle in January. In addition to the prison sentence, Smith received three years of supervised release.

More: Plea deal reached, MLK statue vandal released from Sangamon County Jail

The rifle had been one of a series of weapons and parts that had been taken from a home in Springfield earlier in the month. Court documents indicate that the sale took place around Jan. 20 of this year, with Myerscough noting during the hearing that Smith sold the gun for $450 while knowing it was stolen. The gun had a high-capacity magazine that was capable of holding 30 rounds of ammunition.

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With assistance from the Sangamon County Sheriff's Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Smith was arrested on March 16 and reached a plea deal on April 25.

Smith could have faced upwards of 15 years in prison for possession of the firearm and 10 years for the sale, with up to $500,000 in fines.

This article originally appeared on State Journal-Register: Springfield man sentenced for selling stolen AR-15
MADISON  Wisconsin Supreme Court Chief Justice Annette Ziegler plans to post a job listing for the director of the state courts system, despite the position being filled earlier this month by the court's new liberal majority.

It's the latest development in a saga that has divided the state's high court since liberal Justice Janet Protasiewicz was sworn in on Aug. 3.

Ziegler, a conservative, notified her fellow justices, along with current state courts director Audrey Skwierawski, of her decision in an email Monday, calling the liberal justices' actions this month "nothing short of an unprecedented coup."

She was later criticized by liberal Justice Rebecca Dallet for what Dallet called a "deeply inappropriate, and at times partisan, tone and tenor" in an email obtained by the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel.

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"We need a Director of State Courts, and I will have that position posted for a nationwide search, as we did last time. I have checked with the previous Director and the job description is accurate. I will add this to an upcoming agenda for further discussion," Ziegler wrote.

Randy Koschnick, who had served as state courts director since 2017, was ousted from the role by the court's liberal bloc when Protasiewicz started her 10-year term. The liberal justices appointed Skwierawski, a Milwaukee County circuit judge, to replace him on an interim basis.

Skwierawski is taking a leave of absence from her judicial post in order to serve as courts director. She was appointed to her seat in 2018 by former Republican Gov. Scott Walker.

Wisconsin Supreme Court Justice Rebecca Dallet

Dallet responded to Ziegler late Monday evening.

"I am incredibly disappointed that you have chosen to play games in the media rather than communicate with members of the court privately through our procedures, or with the Director of State Courts throughout the month (despite numerous requests to do so)," Dallet said in an email obtained by the Journal Sentinel.

Koschnick has filed complaints since his firing with the Wisconsin Judicial Commission against Justices Ann Walsh Bradley, Rebecca Dallet, Jill Karofsky and Protasiewicz, as well as Skwierawski. Ziegler has said the decision to appoint Skwierawski "was made without regard for the Constitution, case law, or Supreme Court rules."

"Let me be crystal clear," Dallet wrote in response to Ziegler's Monday emails. "The attempt to obstruct the proper business of the court and the furtherance of justice comes from you. Judge Skwierawski tried on many occasions to discuss how the Office of State Courts could better serve the people of our State. You not only refused to meet with her but today you send emails (which are then immediately leaked to the media) falsely accusing her of violating the law for doing her job in keeping the courts running in service to the people of the State of Wisconsin."

Dallet said she would "reluctantly release this email to the public because the people of Wisconsin deserve to hear more than (Ziegler's) inaccurate view of the situation leaked to the media from an email."

"For us to work together collegially, I hope we can begin to utilize the processes that the majority of the court has put forward, including the administrative committee," she wrote, referring to a new body the liberal majority created to carry out duties previously handled by solely by the chief justice..

The state courts director is the chief non-judicial officer of Wisconsin's court system, according to Supreme Court rules. The office oversees court operations across the state including developing the court system's budget, advising the state Supreme Court on how to improve the court system, and supervising technology and continuing education.

Early Monday, Ziegler emailed Skwierawski telling her she did not have Ziegler's permission to sign orders for reserve judges, who are called up when other judges are unavailable.

"You never asked me for permission. You do not have my permission. Stop. These orders are in my name. You have no lawful authority to sign them," Ziegler wrote.

Records show Skwierawski signed off on nearly 30 assignments for reserve judges as early as Aug. 7, days after Protasiewicz was sworn in. Skwierawski argues she was within her rights to do so.

"The four of you secretly and unilaterally hired Judge Skwierawski, without the input or knowledge of any of your remaining colleagues. That has never been how the court conducts its business and her hiring is unauthorized," Ziegler said in a second email, addressed to the entire court and Skwierawski. "I cannot agree that Judge Skwierawski is a duly appointed Director. Her appointment was and is not lawful."

Skwierawski said in a statement earlier this month that she consulted legal experts and carefully read relevant statutes, ethics opinions and past cases to ensure she met the qualifications to serve as courts director. Her research included a 2008 ethics opinion from Republican former Attorney General J.B. Van Hollen  the same opinion both Koschnick and Republican leaders in the Legislature have cited in their claims that Skwierawski's appointment was illegal.

She did not respond to email and text messages from the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel on Monday, but the Journal Sentinel obtained a copy of Skwierawski's initial response to Ziegler.

"It was good to finally receive an email from you regarding my work as the interim director as we enter my fourth week on the job. As you know I have tried to communicate with you several times," Skwierawski wrote, adding that Monday's email was her first communication with Ziegler since Aug. 7.

"Either you will work with me as the interim Director and therefore we can set up communication between us to achieve things for the people of this state or you do not recognize me as the interim Director and do not intend to work with me under any circumstances. Your actions to date lead inexorably to the latter conclusion," she continued.

In her email, Skwierawski cited a court rule that states the director of state courts "shall have the responsibility and authority regarding the assignment of reserve judges  where necessary to the ordered and timely disposition of the business of the court." Skwierawski said she believed any addition of Ziegler's name to her orders came as a "fill-in done on the back end of the software" after she had signed them.

"I had the legal authority and responsibility as well as the moral obligation to sign the orders for reserve judges," she wrote. "Those orders represent the very real need for the Office of State Courts to ensure that if a judge is ill or has suffered the loss of a spouse, or has some other reason to be absent from the court they do not need to worry about the coverage for their court. And the people who have cases before that judge can count on having their cases heard without serious delays."

Ziegler slams move to limit power of chief justice

Ziegler's email also referenced a vote by the court's liberal bloc to limit her power.

The liberal justices voted Aug. 4 to change the court's rules, including the creation of a new committee composed of the chief justice and two justices picked by the court's majority members.

The liberal justices voted to shift powers from Ziegler to the new committee, in some cases eliminating the chief justice as the sole decisionmaker and instead assigning such jobs to the committee, including overseeing the state courts director, picking members of state-level judicial committees and the planning and policy advisory committee, and reviewing the court system's budget, among other matters.

"For 40 years, the role of the Chief Justice has been understood and respected. Your short term goals will cause long term, irreparable damage to the judiciary. What a historical disgrace," Ziegler wrote Monday.

"I cannot participate in your illegal experiment," Ziegler continued. "The drastic measures you continue to propose are completely unnecessary and unworkable. Your actions undermine the functioning, consistency and stability that comes from the Chief Justice, not your committee, fulfilling the constitutional responsibility as administrator. You are obstructing the proper functioning of the courts."

At the time of the vote, Dallet said the court's majority "voted ... to advance a number of transparency and accountability measures." The move was "intended to be a first step in making our court more accessible and more accountable to the people of Wisconsin," Dallet said in a statement at the time.

In her Monday night email, Dallet argued the chief justice "is not, and never has been the administrator" of the state Supreme Court, and that the majority rules in its administration.

"You stand in the company of equals and your vote does not count extra (let alone prevail against four other votes)," Dallet wrote. "For that reason, there is no conceivable argument that the constitution gives you any authority over, for example, our courts schedule  a power that now belongs to the administrative committee. Whether you like it or not is irrelevant. Your frantic emails and public statements notwithstanding, your power has been limited, in accordance with the constitution, which allows a majority to rule and to develop procedures you must respect."

Hope Karnopp of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel contributed to this report.

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This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Supreme Court feud escalates with Ziegler posting court director's job
There were few storm-related flight delays and cancellations at South Florida airports on Monday, but officials expected the number of affected flights to rise as Idalia moved closer toward the Gulf Coast this week, potentially as a Category 3 hurricane.

The Tampa International Airport will close at 12:01 a.m. Tuesday ahead of Idalias landfall in Florida, the airport posted on X, the social media site formerly known as Twitter.

And what happens in Tampa, and anywhere else in the state, will have an impact on us at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, said Celina Saucedo, the airports Chief Administrative Officer in Fort Lauderdale. Its a domino effect.

As of Monday afternoon, there were 12 delayed arrivals, 11 delayed departures and 1 cancellation, possibly because of the storm. Saucedo said these numbers are very, very minimal to Fort Lauderdales overall traffic. Still, its a changing situation with the storm coming to Florida.

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At Miami International Airport, the numbers showed less inconvenience: Just two arrivals and two departures to and from Cuba were canceled early Monday because of Idalia, according to a spokesman. As of Monday, there were no flight cancellations at Palm Beach International Airport, according to tracking site FlightAware.

Lisa J. Huriash can be reached at lhuriash@sunsentinel.com. Follow on Twitter @LisaHuriash
FILE PHOTO: Employee works on the production line of Nio electric vehicles in Hefei

BEIJING (Reuters) - China's factory activity likely contracted for a fifth straight month in August, a Reuters poll showed on Tuesday, as weak demand threatens recovery prospects in the world's second-largest economy and pressures officials to prop up growth.

The official purchasing managers' index (PMI) is expected to have edged up to 49.4 in August, a marginal improvement on the 49.3 recorded in July, according to the median forecast of 34 economists in the poll.

An index reading above 50 indicates expansion in activity on a monthly basis while below that signals contraction. Only two respondents forecast readings of 50 or above.

The last time the indicator pointed to contraction for more than three consecutive months was in the six months to October 2019, before the pandemic, suggesting negative sentiment among factory managers has become entrenched.

"Demand from key trading partners is diminishing. Both the U.S. and Eurozone Manufacturing PMIs have fallen below the expansion threshold of 50 for nine and 14 consecutive months, respectively," Taimur Baig, chief economist at DBS, wrote in a note. "ASEAN, China's top trading partner, has also decreased to a nearly two-year low of 50.8."

Major banks have downgraded their economic growth forecasts for the year to below the government's target of about 5% as recovery sputters on a worsening property slump, weak consumer spending and tumbling credit growth, prompting authorities to slash interest and promise further support.

Over the weekend, China announced a halving in stock-trading stamp duties and on Friday approved guidelines for affordable housing to expand investment, although analysts anticipate home prices will show no growth this year.

Most analysts say policymakers are unlikely to deliver any aggressive stimulus amid worries about exacerbating debt risks.

The official manufacturing PMI, which largely focuses on big and state-owned firms, and its survey for the services sector, will be released on Thursday.

Last month, the services and construction sectors teetered on the brink of contraction - the last remaining bright spots in an economy otherwise struggling for signs of life.

(Reporting by Joe Cash; Polling by: Anant Chandak and Susobhan Sarkar in Bengaluru. Editing by Sam Holmes)
He just came in and started shooting without saying a word.

Thats what two shell-shocked survivors of the King Soopers supermarket mass shooting in Boulder, Colorado, told reporters on 22 March 2021 in the immediate aftermath of Americas latest outburst of deadly gun violence, which had just left another 10 people dead.

The pair were as stunned by the eerie calm with which the alleged shooter, Ahmad Al Aliwi Alissa  then just 21  carried out the massacre as they were by the scale of the atrocity or their own good fortune in having escaped unharmed.

And they were not alone in noticing the killers chillingly methodical approach as he roamed the aisles, clad all in black and bearing a Ruger AR-556 pistol, equipped to function like a rifle with a longer-than-usual barrel, and a 9mm semi-automatic handgun.

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Another eyewitness told the media the gunman had let off a couple of shots, then was silent, and then he let off a couple more. He wasnt spraying.

The accused himself sustained a gunshot wound to the upper right thigh when he was apprehended by police officers and had to be treated in hospital before being booked and taken to the county jail.

He was swiftly charged with first-degree murder and one count of attempted murder, which would subsequently be added to considerably as further felony charges were piled on over the next two months, leaving Alissa facing life in prison without hope of parole, the state having abolished the death penalty just one year earlier.

However, he would subsequently be moved from prison to a state mental hospital after a prosecution expert found he was approaching catatonia behind bars, with four psychologists diagnosing him with schizophrenia.

He was duly ruled mentally incompetent to stand trial on 3 December 2021 and again on 15 April 2022, leading many in the community to fear he might never be held accountable for his crimes in a court of law.

But on 23 August, after months of treatment and evaluations, Alissa, now 23, was found to have been restored to competency thanks to the efforts of his carers, meaning he can now appear before a judge.

Alissa had been born in Raqqa, Syria, in 1999 but became a naturalised American citizen when his family moved to the United States in 2002, eventually settling in Arvada, Colorado, not far from Boulder, in 2014.

However, Alissas high school years appear to have been unhappy ones, with his older brother Ali Aliwi Alissa subsequently saying he had been bullied by classmates and describing him as very anti-social and paranoid.

Ahmad Al Aliwi Alissa (EPA)

When he was having lunch with my sister in a restaurant, he said, People are in the parking lot, they are looking for me, Ali recalled in an interview with The Daily Beast. She went out, and there was no one. We didnt know what was going on in his head.

He added that his siblings actions were not at all a political statement, its mental illness. The guy used to get bullied a lot in high school, he was like an outgoing kid but after he went to high school and got bullied a lot, he started becoming anti-social.

None of which prepared anyone for what unfolded at the Boulder discount supermarket at 2.30pm on that chilly Monday afternoon in the pandemic spring of March 2021  the states worst massacre since Columbine in 1999 and Aurora in 2012  as shoppers gathered to buy groceries or receive Covid vaccine shots at its pharmacy.

The gunman appeared in the car park of the store on 3600 Table Mesa Drive and quickly opened fire on anyone in his path, with the store employees who called 911 telling dispatchers, according to an affidavit, that they had observed the suspect shoot an elderly man in the parking lot. The suspect then walked up to the elderly man, stood over him and shot him multiple additional times.

The killer then entered the store and began his rampage in earnest, sending the approximately 115 people inside fleeing for the emergency exits in blind panic, some sheltering behind garbage cans in a Starbucks kiosk, in cabinets underneath deli counters or in stock rooms, desperate to remain unseen.

Tributes hang on the temporary fence surrounding the parking lot in front of King Soopers in April 2021 (AP)

Manager Darcey Lopez would later tell The Loveland Reporter-Herald she believed her own death was inevitable as she listened to the gunfire: I was ready to go. It was like ba-ba-ba-ba-ba-ba. Ba-ba-ba-ba. It stopped, and we thought he was done. And then he started shooting again.

The Boulder Police Department had meanwhile assembled a massive response outside the store, featuring armoured vehicles, ambulances, helicopters and drones overhead and a SWAT team ready to go and had urged the killer to surrender via sound system.

He finally did so, emerging with his hands up, stripped down to his shorts, and was handcuffed and led outside at 3.28pm, exactly 58 minutes after the attack had commenced, asking to see his mother.

The shooters motives have never been established but his victims were ultimately found to be: Denny Stong, 20; Neven Stanisic, 23; Rikki Olds, 25; Tralona Bartkowiak, 49; Teri Leiker, 51; Eric Talley, 51; Suzanne Fountain, 59; Kevin Mahoney, 61; Lynn Murray, 62; and Jody Waters, 65.

Stong, Olds and Leiker were Kings Soopers employees, Stanisic a repairman on the job while Talley was a police officer who had run towards the gunfire in a bid to intervene, becoming the first cop to be killed in the line of duty in Colorado since 1994.

The rest were customers.

All had simply been trying to go about their days.
A federal judge in Wyoming has dismissed a lawsuit brought by six sorority sisters at the University of Wyoming who wanted the court to kick out a transgender member of the sorority, Artemis Langford, because the sisters believed that transgender women should be excluded from the organization.

Wyoming U.S. District Judge Alan Johnson ruled in favor of the transgender sister's motion to dismiss, writing that it was inappropriate for the court to impose the plaintiffs definition of a woman when the sororitys bylaws are more expansive in their wording, the Associated Press reports.

With its inquiry beginning and ending there, the court will not define a woman today, Johnson wrote.

The plaintiffs alleged in the lawsuit that Kappa Kappa Gamma sororitys rules actually prohibit transgender women from joining the sorority. Langford, the suit claimed, should be expelled from the sorority.

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The judge decided that, at the end of the day, he could not overrule the parameters that the private, voluntary organization had set forth for the definition of a woman.

More than 145 Kappa Kappa Gamma chapters have accepted transgender women since 2015. According to the Kappa Kappa Gamma filing, its policy is similar to that of 25 other sororities in the National Panhellenic Conference, an umbrella organization for sororities across the U.S. and Canada, the Associated Press reports.

According to Johnsons ruling Friday, a federal court cannot meddle with the sororitys freedom of association by disallowing its decision to welcome the transgender woman last year.

An attorney for the sisters, Cassie Craven, said that the sisters disagree with the judges decision and the essential matter of defining who a woman is remains unresolved.

Women have a biological reality that deserves to be protected and recognized, and we will continue to fight for that right just as women suffragists for decades have been told that their bodies, opinions, and safety doesnt matter, Craven said, according to the AP.

Langford's attorney, Rachel Berkess, celebrated the decision.

The allegations against Ms. Langford should never have made it into a legal filing," Berkess said in an email to the news wire. "They are nothing more than cruel rumors that mirror exactly the type of rumors used to vilify and dehumanize members of the LGBTQIA+ community for generations. And they are baseless.
MANTEO  A trial jury and two alternates were selected from a 75-member pool of potential local jurors on Monday for the case of John Jay Curtis Tolson. Opening statements in the case are set for 9:30 a.m. Tuesday.

Tolson is charged with the second-degree murder of his former girlfriend, Amanda LeeAnn Fletcher Hartleben, who is referred to as LeeAnn Fletcher.

A 38-year-old mother of two, Fletcher was found unresponsive in her Kitty Hawk home on July 22, 2020, and died three days later. Tolson was arrested in Maine that October.

After about an hour of regular calendar cases in Dare County Superior Court, most of which were continued, Tolson was brought into the courtroom around 10:40 a.m., dressed in a suit.

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The pool of jurors was called to the courtroom about 11:30 a.m. after Judge Jeff Foster of Pitt County heard motions by the defense attorneys.

Christan Routten, assistant public defender with the First Judicial District Public Defenders Office and one of Tolsons lawyers, requested a motion to prohibit all parties in the trial from identifying Fletcher as the victim, instead calling her the decedent. She said the use of victim implies that a crime has occurred.

Thats our theory, that a crime occurred, and shes a victim in the case, countered District 1 Assistant District Attorney Jennifer Bland, one of the prosecutors for the state.

Foster denied the motion regarding the states verbiage, noting that is their theory. He said he would decide later about the phrasing for jury instructions.

Routten also made a motion to exclude all the roughly 50 photographs and all physical evidence in the case.

Foster asked for the binder of photographs and said he would consider them after hours and then determine which are admissible and which arent. He said hed rule on the physical evidence after the jury was picked.

The jury comprises seven women and five men, and the two alternates are one woman and one man. Jury members include two former math teachers, a pastor, an Uber driver, a landscaper and an oceanographer.

At least 11 jurors were called to the jury box, then excused throughout the day, and at least one juror was excused even before the jurors were admitted into the courtroom. When his name was called in the afternoon, a colleague told the judge that hed left in the morning. After the judge suggested that deputies go locate him, it came to light that he had been excused from jury duty, and there was a collective laugh of relief in the room.

Attorneys had prepared a questionnaire that jurors filled out in the morning. The attorneys referenced those responses during their questioning.

Jurors were asked if they had heard or seen anything about the case previously; from what sources; if they had formed opinions of Tolsons guilt or innocence; and if they had, if they could set those aside to be impartial jurors.

A Buxton resident said that one of his close friends was friends with Tolson, and that he was struggling with the impartial part of this, before he was excused from serving.

An East Lake resident said she grew up with LeeAnn, and she was excused.

A Wanchese man said hed probably not be able to set aside the opinion hed formed. I know all of them up there, he said, gesturing to Fletchers family members.

Attorneys representing both sides excused other jurors after consulting with either Tolson or Fletchers family, respectively. Without citing reasons, as is allowed, they excused several jurors including a restaurant server, a former physicians assistant, a nurse, a retired nurse, an auto detailer and a realty company accountant.

Bland and Routten each in turn asked jurors if they understood that Tolson is presumed innocent until evidence is presented that satisfied the states burden of proof beyond a reasonable doubt.

After Foster dismissed the jury at 4:25 p.m., he ruled that the physical evidence collected in July 2020 was admissible, and said hed consider and decide later about the September evidence, collected by the State Bureau of Investigations along with Kitty Hawk police, about which he said he had concerns.

The evidence Kitty Hawk police collected on July 24 included a comforter, towel and pillow appearing to have blood on them, according to Blands statements. It also included a shirt also with the appearance of blood that a private investigator the family hired collected, then turned over to Kitty Hawk police on July 31.

Foster imposed a list of restrictions on members of the media who are covering the trial, which on Monday included reporters from three news outlets and two CBS 48 Hours staffers.

Fosters restrictions include mandatory seating in the bench farthest back in the courtroom and no audio recording for the duration of the proceedings. He also limited still photography and videography to the first half hour of motion hearings, and only by one designated media person for each.

He repeatedly cautioned jurors to not look at or listen to media coverage of the trial, as he said such coverage is often inaccurate.

Foster is the judge who denied the multi-organizational request for body camera footage being turned over news media in April 28, 2021, after sheriffs deputies in Elizabeth City shot and killed the unarmed Black man, Andrew Brown, Jr., 42, one week prior while serving a warrant.
Two young children were among four people found dead in a New York City apartment Monday, police said.

Police identified the four Tuesday morning as Edison Lopez, 41; Alexandra Witek, 40; Lucien Lopez, 3; and Calvin Lopez, 1. Lucien had initially been misidentified as a girl because his body was covered in so much blood, a police source told NBC News.

The adults had suffered trauma to their necks while the 3-year-old was discovered with trauma to the torso and the 1-year-old was discovered with wounds around his body, police said.

"Im not sure how those injuries were sustained," a police spokesperson said Monday. "That is part of an ongoing investigation. It was possibly a murder-suicide, but that's not been definitively determined yet."

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Police would not comment Tuesday on who was believed to be the perpetrator of the attack or where in the household the victims were found, citing the active investigation. A spokesperson said police had not received any 911 calls concerning the residence prior to Monday, when a relative requested a wellness check.

Officers responding to the request shortly before 3 p.m. were locked out of the unit, a fourth-floor Upper West Side apartment in Manhattan, the police department said.

New York fire personnel helped them breach the residence so they could reach the victims, police said. Emergency medical personnel pronounced all four dead at the scene.

Neighbors said the man had worked as the super of the building, which is located a few blocks from Central Park.

He kept things in check, he was reliable, as a super," neighbor Jeff Kimmel told NBC New York. "Im telling you, we all really liked him.

Three knives were recovered, NBC New York reported. No arrests have been revealed, and no suspects were named. An official cause of death had not yet been determined late Monday as detectives and a medical examiner pored over the evidence in the apartment, NBC New York added.

If you or someone you know is in crisis, call 988 to reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. You can also call the network, previously known as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, at 800-273-8255, text HOME to 741741 or visit SpeakingOfSuicide.com/resources for additional resources.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
The U.S. News & World Report rankings for high schools were released Tuesday, and Evansville's Signature School again landed a prominent spot nationally.

The public charter on Evansville's Main Street earned the top spot nationally for charter schools, the No. 2 spot nationally among all public high schools, and the top ranking in Indiana among public high schools.

Schools are ranked on their performance on state-required tests, graduation and how well they prepare students for college, according to the U.S. News & World Report website. The U.S. News & World Report feature listed profiles for private schools, but did not issue rankings for them.

Jean Hitchcock, executive director/principal at Signature School, said the recognition is the result of contributions by the open admission institution's entire family. Signature has nearly 380 students and about 30 faculty members.

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"These (rankings) are real validation of the real passion and dedication of the teachers, the students, our families  really, all the stakeholders, the board members," Hitchcock said Tuesday. "Its nice to have that outside validation of a job well done."

Here's how Evansville-area schools fared:

National rankings, top 100 public high schools

Signature School, Evansville (2)

Best public high schools, Indiana, top 100

Signature School, Evansville (1)

Heritage Hills High School, Lincoln City (16)

Tell City High School (28)

Castle High School, Newburgh (33)

North High School, Evansville (34)

Central High School, Evansville (40)

Perry Central High School, Leopold (48)

Jasper High School (55)

Reitz High School, Evansville (63)

Harrison High School, Evansville (77)

Tecumseh High School, Lynnville (99)

National rankings, top 100 charter schools

Signature School, Evansville (1)

Best public high schools, Kentucky, top 100

Henderson County (54)

Daviess County (70)

Owensboro High School (93)

This article originally appeared on Evansville Courier & Press: U.S. News and World Report high school rankings include Signature School
[Source]

A graduate student at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill has been charged with murder in connection with the fatal shooting of a faculty member.

What happened: Zijie Yan, an associate professor in the Department of Applied Physical Sciences, was shot to death shortly after 1 p.m. on Monday. The incident, which occurred at Caudill Laboratories  a chemistry studies building  resulted in an hours-long lockdown.

About the suspect: The alleged gunman fled the scene but was arrested about a mile away 90 minutes later. He was identified as Chinese national Tailei Qi, a graduate student in the victims research group.

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Charges: Qi was charged with first-degree murder and possession of a weapon on educational property, both felonies, earlier today. Police are still determining a motive and he could face additional charges as the investigation continues.

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What the university is saying: UNC-Chapel Hill is in contact with Yans family. In a statement, Chancellor Kevin Guskiewicz described him as a beloved colleague, mentor and father of two.

This loss is devastating and the shooting damages the trust and safety that we so often take for granted in our campus community, Guskiewicz said. We will work to rebuild that sense of trust and safety within our community.

Whats next: UNC-Chapel Hill canceled Tuesdays classes. In honor of Yans memory, the university will ring its bell tower at 1:02 p.m. tomorrow, followed by a moment of silence.

More from NextShark: 2 Older Asians Attacked, Robbed in Separate Incidents Near Train Station in Massachusetts

Meanwhile, Qi will remain held without bail at Orange County Jail. He is scheduled to return to court on Sept. 18.

More from NextShark: Child Care in Vancouver Refuses Asian Mothers Son, Tells Her They Wont Take Chinese In

Featured Image via FOX8 WGHP, ABC11
A 20-year-old University of South Carolina student was fatally shot early Saturday when he tried to enter the wrong home, police said.

Columbia police found Nicholas Anthony Donofrio, 20, dead of a gunshot wound to his upper body on the front porch of the home on South Holly Street, about 2 miles from the university campus, police said in a news release.

Police say Donofrio lived on the street and tried to enter the wrong home when he was shot.

A 911 call first came in shortly before 2 a.m. reporting a home burglary, and the call was upgraded to "a shots fired call" while officers were on their way to the scene, the release said.

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The Richland County Coroners Office identified Donofrio, police said.

Nick Donofrio. (Dina Donofrio via Facebook)

Police investigators "will continue to consult with the Fifth Circuit Solicitors Office regarding the circumstances of the case," the news release said. A police spokesperson said charges had not yet been filed.

South Carolinas stand your ground law allows people to use deadly force in self-defense if they are not breaking the law and in places where they have a right to be, according to the Giffords Law Center to Prevent Gun Violence, a nonprofit advocacy organization. The state does not require gun owners to be licensed to own or purchase guns, it says.

Donofrio is originally from Connecticut, police said. His parents could not immediately be reached for comment Monday.

Donofrio graduated from Daniel Hand High School in Madison, a town about 20 miles east of New Haven, in 2021, Madison County schools Superintendent Craig Cooke and the school's principal, Anthony Salutari Jr., said in a statement.

A University of South Carolina spokesperson said in a statement that Donofrio was a sophomore and that the university's Student Affairs team is providing support to students.

Donofrio was studying kinesiology and exercise science, according to his LinkedIn profile.

The fatal shooting is the latest in a string of similar tragedies, in which people have been shot  sometimes fatally  for making mistakes.

In April, Andrew Lester, a white man in his 80s, shot Ralph Yarl, a 16-year-old Black boy, after he rang the wrong doorbell as he was intending to pick up his younger brothers in Kansas City, Missouri. Yarl survived but has said he is suffering lingering effects from the shooting, including difficulty concentrating.

Lester has been charged with first-degree assault and armed criminal action. He pleaded not guilty and was released on $200,000 bail and ordered to surrender his passport, give up his firearm and have no contact with Yarl. If he is found guilty, he could face a maximum sentence of life in prison on the assault charge and three to 15 years on the gun charge.

Days after the shooting of Yarl, Kevin Monahan, 65, fatally shot Kaylin Gillis, 20, after the car she was in mistakenly turned into his driveway in upstate New York. Monahan was arrested on a charge of second-degree murder, to which he pleaded not guilty.

Also in April, Pedro Tello Rodriguez Jr., 25, was charged with deadly conduct, a third-degree felony, in the shootings of two Texas cheerleaders  one of whom was injured critically  after one got in the wrong car in the parking lot of a supermarket about 25 miles northeast of Austin. It was not immediately clear whether Rodriguez had entered a plea and whether he remains in custody, and a police spokesperson could not immediately be reached for comment.

Experts and gun control advocates have blamed the incidents on lax gun laws and increasingly incendiary mainstream political discourse.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
The National Park Service is making another attempt at seeking a new operator for the Hyde Park Drive-In Movie Theater.

This time the federal agency, which owns the property on Route 9 where the drive-in is located, has changed some of its land use requirements in order to make the request for proposal more "attractive" and to "increase competitiveness."

The federal agency reissued its RFP to lease, operate and maintain the property after canceling its initial search in June.

The Hyde Park Drive In on August 22, 2023. The National Parks Service has been seeking a vendor to run the drive in.

We appreciate the great feedback by potential applicants and want to ensure the treasured drive-in has the best caretakers moving forward, noted park superintendent, Amy Bracewell. We hope the new RFP is more attractive and achievable for potential applicants.

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The drive-in has been closed since May after the operator's lease ended and the federal agency began its search for a new operator.

Housing: Hudson River Housing opposes Dutchess County's plan for shelter in Poughkeepsie

The drive-in industry has seen a 30% decrease in the number of sites in the country between 1999 and 2018, according to the United Drive-In Theatre Owners Association data.

The Hyde Park Drive-in was opened in 1949 by Sidney and Ida Cohen, who added Overlook Drive-in at 126 De Garmo Road in Poughkeepsie in 1955. Barry Horowitz, a family member who previously managed the drive-in, would not comment for this story.

The ticket booth at the Hyde Park Drive In on August 22, 2023. The National Parks Service has been seeking a vendor to run the drive in.

A more 'attractive' lease

The updated RFP extends the term of the lease. Offers can propose a lease term "up to maximum of twenty (20) years." The previous RFP allowed for a lease term of up to 10 years.

Request for proposals: Read the terms of Hyde Park Drive-In lease

The property can also be used year round  previous terms outlined use between Memorial Day and Labor Day.

The operator can also sublease the concession operations, space for food trucks or allow "similar operations" with prior approval from National Park Service.

Business: This semiconductor firm is expanding its NY footprint. What it means for Dutchess County

Both RFPs allowed for "improvements" to the property. Changes to the landscape and "setting" of the drive-in would require approval through historic preservation compliance. Improvements to the property can offset the rent, which is $4,000 per month.

The NPS said the former operator took the projection equipment with them, which was their personal property, according to Bracewell.

Saba Ali: Sali1@poughkeepsiejournal.com: 845-451-4518: @MsSabaAli.

This article originally appeared on Poughkeepsie Journal: Future of Hyde Park Drive-In: What new use terms mean
SINGAPORE, Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Coinstore's Brand Launch Conference 2023 is set to take place on September 12th, 1PM at The Fullerton Hotel, Singapore. This event is organized by Coinstore and is co-hosted by prominent blockchain companies such as Cadano, Dfinity, W3GG, Infinity Ventures Crypto, Emurgo Ventures, and is sponsored by prestigious industry leaders including Animoca Brands, Unix Gaming, Nordek and more.

Leveraging on the momentum of the world's largest blockchain event, Token2049, the upcoming Coinstore Brand Launch Conference 2023 in Singapore marks the official debut of the emerging digital asset exchange, Coinstore. During the event, Coinstore will globally unveil its fresh brand positioning, unveil key regional markets, introduce product and services, as well as outline the company's future strategic plans.

With over 300 industry luminaries and key opinion leaders, along with more than 100 top-tier venture capitalist representatives, as well as participation from over 50 renowned companies and institutions, the conference is anticipated to draw over 400 industry enthusiasts and stakeholders. Additionally, support from esteemed media partners such as Coinlive, further underscores the significance of this event.

Coinstore's Token 2049 booth and Gamefi Night

Attendees are cordially invited to visit Coinstore's Token 2049 booth on the 4th floor (P124) and 5th floor (P19) on the main exhibition areas. Additionally, on September 13th at 7PM, Coinstore will be hosting the "Coinstore Gamefi night" at The Spot Singapore. We cordially extend our invitation for your participation at this special occasion.

Coinstore, a dark horse in the digital asset exchange emerging market

Coinstore.com is a world-leading digital asset trading platform that strongly focuses on emerging high-growth markets. Established in December 2020, our founding team comprises seasoned financial and blockchain experts from top-tier investment banks, hedge funds, and the world's leading digital asset trading platforms.

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As of May 2023, the platform boasts over 3.6 million registered users with an impressive peak daily transaction volume of $453,186,502. With its services extending across 175 countries and regions, Coinstore's influence is particularly strong in Indonesia, India, and Nigeria. By 2025, our ultimate ambition is to cement our status as the primary entry point for digital assets, catering to millions of users worldwide, and becoming the premier global platform in emerging markets.

Coinstore, The first choice for the initial launch

Bringing together premium assets from around the world, Coinstore aims to establish itself as the leading premier global platform for exclusive premier listings. In the rapidly evolving landscape of cryptocurrency exchanges, Coinstore, based in Singapore, stands out by thoroughly analyzing our business logic and positioning. With a strong emphasis on product and service experiences, we proudly present our brand positioning and value proposition as "The Premier Global Platform for Exclusive Premier Listings."

Coinstore believes in providing users with a wider range of tradable high-quality assets, delivering better trading experiences, and higher investment returns. With utmost responsibility to provide projects with convenient and valuable end-to-end services, we strive to continuously innovate and improve our products, ensuring premium services for our users.

Focusing on "emerging markets" and cultivating regional traffic

Coinstore have effectively established a network of global sites and business centers in emerging markets, strategically positioned to capitalize on the growing opportunities these markets offer. With over 200 international staff and 13 centers worldwide, we are committed to providing localized professional connections and services to our global user base. Our dedicated local teams in the United Kingdom, India, the United Arab Emirates, South Korea, Indonesia, Vietnam, the Philippines, Malaysia, and other regions demonstrate our deep commitment to serving our users with expertise and understanding of their local markets.

Coinstore has built a service team focused on project services. On the business side, they have established 13 overseas operational centers with localized teams in the United Kingdom, India, the United Arab Emirates, South Korea, Indonesia, Vietnam, the Philippines, Malaysia, and other countries, allowing us to quickly reach 70% of blockchain projects worldwide.

Coinstore has established a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Kadin Bandung, a prominent business association. Additionally, we have entered into an agreement with AFAB, the Philippine's free trade authority. This collaboration marks a significant step towards fostering mutually beneficial partnerships.

On October 18, 2022, Coinstore signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Kadin Bandung, a prominent business association in Jakarta, aiming to jointly enhance the quality of the Indonesian crypto ecosystem.

On June 8, 2023, Coinstore entered into an agreement with AFAB, the Philippine's free trade authority, promoting cross-border Crypto networking and collaboration of Coinstore in the Philippines.

To establish a stronger presence in regional markets and mobilize local resources, Coinstore has launched two major offline conference brands, 'CS Connect' and 'Cryptalk,' regularly held in various emerging markets. These conferences bring together local project teams, media, key opinion leaders (KOLs), and investors to explore the latest trends and developments in the cryptocurrency field. To date, more than 15 conferences have been held, covering countries such as Colombia, London, Thailand, Russia, the Philippines, Malaysia, Vietnam and many more. In the second half of 2023, Coinstore is expected to host more than 20 Cryptalk events and 30 Connect events, covering over 20 countries.

In response to local KOLs, Coinstore introduced the Teamster and CS League programs in September 2022, gathering an alliance of KOLs from various emerging markets such as Indonesia, India, Thailand, and Vietnam. Each KOL has a fan base ranging from 1,000 to 100,000, covering 32 major countries across different industries. They are committed to supporting Coinstore's online promotion efforts in the long term. As of 2023, a total of 978 KOLs have participated in the program.

Coinstore Social Media

Twitter | Facebook | Youtube |







Cision

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/apac/news-releases/coinstore-brand-launch-conference-2023-will-be-officially-held-on-september-12th-in-singapore-301912671.html

SOURCE Coinstore.com
The leading GOP presidential candidates, excluding former President Trump, squared off against each other in their first debate. From left: former Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson, former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie, former U.S. Vice President Mike Pence, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, Vivek Ramaswamy, former U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley, U.S. Sen. Tim Scott (R-S.C.) and North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum. (Win McNamee / Getty Images)

Our political press, in its wisdom, has anointed Nikki Haley and Vivek Ramaswamy the "winners," whatever that means, of last week's Republican debate.

I have a different take. I thought the winner was Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, for the simple reason that he was the only person on stage who actually articulated a policy statement. Unfortunately for the cause of intelligent discourse, his statement was erected upon a pediment of lies.

Not just ordinary lies, mind you. Lies that undergirded his administration's gruesome failure in the fight against COVID-19.

Lockdown states locked their kids out of school for a year, year-and-a-half. That was wrong....I stood for our kids.

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, at last week's GOP debate

More on that in a moment. The most shocking aspect of the debate may have been how negligent our political press was at evaluating its content  or rather, the vacuousness of its content.

Instead, reporters and pundits became transfixed by Ramaswamy, who is nothing but an attention whore trying to sell an astoundingly baroque line of chatter. (He sure does know his audience in the press corps.)

As for Haley, her most consistent bite on social media is the notion that a vote for Biden is a vote for a President Kamala Harris. She never gets around to explaining what that means or why it would be bad.

She's implying that Biden won't live to the end of another term, but that merely glosses over the visible decrepitude of her own party's leader, who is only three years younger than Biden and who oversaw an administration that is likely to go down as the most incompetent and corrupt in American history.

Read more: Column: Ron DeSantis has a new attack on Disney, and it's truly stupid

Back to DeSantis. Here's what he said during the debate Wednesday night about COVID lockdowns. "It was a mistake. It should have never happened. And in Florida, we led the country out of lockdown. We kept our state free and open. And I can tell you this. As your president, I will never let the deep state bureaucrats lock you down."

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There's a lot there to unpack, but let's start with the most fundamental point: In the early months of the COVID pandemic, before vaccines became widely available, lockdowns worked.

Combined with other "non-pharmaceutical interventions" (NPIs) such as masking and social distancing, they slowed the spread of the disease, saving millions of people from falling ill, landing in the hospital, or dying. Absent these measures, hospitals, which already were overrun with patients in dire condition, would have fared even worse.

Studies from as early as mid-2021 validated those findings. The latest evidence comes from the Royal Society, Britain's 360-year-old academy of sciences, known for its painstaking, objective research. (Its motto "nullius in verba" translates as "take nobody's word for it.")

A report the society released this month studied the effect of NPIs in Hong Kong, New Zealand and South Korea during the first 18 months of the pandemic. The evidence shows "unequivocally" that lockdowns and the other social approaches "can provide powerful, effective and prolonged reductions in viral transmission," the report states.

The report added that these steps are most effective if undertaken when disease transmission is low, such as "during the emergence of a pandemic and at the earliest signs of resurgence of infection."

During the debate, DeSantis also bragged about opening Florida's schools during the pandemic. Referring to a nationwide decline in K-12 test scores in the aftermath of the pandemic, he said, "A lot of the problems that we've seen are because these lockdown states locked their kids out of school for a year, year-and-a-half. That was wrong.... I stood for our kids."

Read more: Column: These 'experts' sold the U.S. on a disastrous COVID plan, and never paid a professional price

A couple of things about that. DeSantis was as quick as other governors, Democrats and Republicans, to shut down his state's schools at the start of the pandemic; he ordered them closed on April 18, 2020, for the rest of the school year.

DeSantis ordered the schools reopened earlier than many other states, at the start of the 2020-21 school year, however. He also forbade schools to require masks, and even threatened to withhold pay and state funding from officials and districts that bucked his orders.

How did that go? COVID cases among Florida children spiked, tripling compared with the pre-reopening period. Overall, Florida ranks 19th among the states in cumulative COVID cases per 100,000 children. (Its record is probably significantly worse, since its figures cover only children up to 14 and most other states' count kids up to age 19.)

The idea that it was virtuous to reopen schools in the heat of the pandemic is based on a concatenation of myths beloved by conservative politicians that, unfortunately, have seeped into the public debate about pandemic countermeasures across the partisan spectrum.

There's the myth that school closings and the shift to remote teaching was almost entirely responsible for the decline in test scores. The evidence for that is murky at best. It's contradicted, for example, by comparing the Florida experience with that of California, where most districts weren't cleared to reopen until April 2021.

As I reported in October, when 2022 national test scores were released, Florida's kids lost more ground in reading and math than California's.

Several factors other than school closings may have accounted for the achievement decline during the pandemic. One is the general social disruption caused by the pandemic, which schoolchildren surely felt almost as acutely as their parents.

"Disruption" is too mild a word for what many children faced. About 360,000 American children lost a primary or secondary caregiver to COVID. Nearly 300,000 were orphaned by the loss of one or both parents.

Florida has ranked third among states in the absolute number of children who lost a primary or secondary caregiver, after California and Texas. But in per capita losses it leads the roll, at 596 per 100,000 children, compared with 554 in Texas and 501 in California.

Who brought COVID into these households? In a shocking number of cases, it was children. According to a peer-reviewed study published in June of about 39,000 COVID cases in 166,000 U.S. households, more than 70% began with a child bringing the virus into the home and infecting siblings or adults.

Importantly, the transmission rate fell during school breaks  underscoring the role of K-12 classrooms in spreading the virus.

Read more: Column: Trump rips DeSantis on COVID and education  and for once he's telling the truth

In other words, the researchers wrote, "children were important viral vectors in households during the pandemic, particularly when school was in session."

One other myth perpetuated by DeSantis and his fellow GOP political leaders is that children were largely immune to COVID and that even if they contracted the disease, their symptoms were mild or nonexistent.

Yet according to figures from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 2,300 children have died from COVID. Is that a lot or a little? To their families, it's devastating. It should be shocking to everyone. Then-CDC Director Rochelle Walensky found herself obligated to explain the facts of life to a GOP congressman at a hearing in August 2021, informing him that "children are not supposed to die."

The problem with the argument that closing schools was a mistake is the failure to ask: "Compared to what?"

As New York neurologist and psychiatrist Jonathan Howard has put it: What would have happened had schools remained open without any mitigation measures? The obvious answer, he has written, is that nearly all children would have gotten COVID, as would everyone they live with, and most school employees.

As we've reported in the past, DeSantis' record on COVID is nothing short of tragic. As of May, Floridas COVID death rate of 411 per 100,000 population was 10th worst in the nation  about 88,000 residents ; California, with a rate of 259.4, ranks 42nd. If Florida had Californias death rate, about 32,000 Floridians would have been spared.

DeSantis' sycophants argue that Florida's COVID death rate is an artifact of its demographics, since it has a high percentage of seniors, who are notably vulnerable to the disease. That won't wash.

Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine, which have higher percentages of residents 65 and older, have much lower COVID death rates. In any case, DeSantis always claimed that his pandemic approach was focused on protecting those most vulnerable seniors. If so, he failed miserably at that task.

At the debate, however, he did do his best to hold the viewers' attention. Most of the other seven candidates on the stage did too. If you tuned in to hear substance, you came to the wrong place.

Get the latest from Michael Hiltzik

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
A condus haotic si s-a rasturnat cu masina in sant

Pe drumul national 1F din judetul Satu Mare politistii au identificat in trafic, in seara de 29 octombrie, un barbat care conducea haotic. Oamenii legii au incercat sa-l opreasca, insa soferul nu s-a conformat si nu s-a oprit din mers, trecand in viteza pe langa ei. Politistii au pornit [citeste mai departe]
Its no secret that companies have been downsizing their spaces in the wake of the pandemic and, in many cases, leaving the Loop for trendier digs in Fulton Market.

But a budding trend is unfolding in the wake of those moves. The Loop spaces companies are leaving behind are available for lease at bargain rates, making it possible for smaller firms and nonprofits to move into nicer spaces than they would otherwise be able to afford.

There is such a high vacancy rate in the Loop that now is a good time for any organization to take advantage of the great deals out there, said Valerie Hawthorne-Berry, senior director of facilities for Heartland Alliance, a Chicago-based human rights organization. Heartland Alliance is moving this November from an old office property at 208 S. LaSalle St. into a bright modern location in the East Loop with advanced conference facilities, a new fitness club and a giant food court.

That deal could not have gotten done a couple of years ago when things were really hot, said Andrew Davidson, executive managing director of Transwestern, who helped broker Heartlands new lease.

The abundance of available space is making it easier for some firms to upgrade to offices with more amenities and natural light. Nonprofits, which typically dont have excess cash for workplace frills, are among those that have been able to upgrade their spaces. And many organizations are finding that a spiffy new workplace can help get people back into the office.

Its made my commute so much more bearable, said Grecca Gonzalez, senior strategist with Scale Marketing, which just moved from an old River North loft building to 515 N. State St., a Class A property with a modern fitness club, private nooks to take phone calls, modern conference facilities and small touches like an espresso machine. When you walk in, theres a sense of pride, you stand up a little straighter, and its a great feeling.

Such opportunities are likely to become more common as employees work from home and companies keep shedding space, pushing the markets sky-high vacancy rate even higher, Davidson said.

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By midyear, 28% of downtowns 160 million square feet of office space was available, a record high and up from 24.8% at midyear 2022, according to a Colliers International report.

Its not just for nonprofits, its for everyone, Davidson said. Obviously, as the market gets softer, and its going to get softer, were going to see landlords get more and more aggressive.

Heartland Alliance toured eight or nine buildings before choosing 55 E. Monroe St., a 1.2 million square foot office and retail property owned by PGIM Real Estate, Hawthorne-Berry said. Landlords typically offered between nine and 12 months of free rent.

Thats a substantial amount of money, she said. Landlords were really reaching out.

Hawthorne-Berry estimates Heartland Alliance, which provides housing, health care, job training and other services for the unemployed, refugees, immigrants and many others, will save more than $4 million over the next few years.

We will be able to put that money back into our programs, she said.

Companies are still calculating how much space they need post-pandemic, and many that are signing new leases have decided they need less space.

Everybodys a little cautious, I dont care if youre a nonprofit or a company, said Gregg Witt, a principal with commercial real estate firm Cresa. You dont want to overcorrect. If you rent 20,000 square feet and decide to go down to 5,000, you dont want to later realize that you needed 9,000.

JCFS Chicago, a social service agency that works with refugees, children, people with disabilities and others, has decided to shrink its downtown footprint, President and CEO Stacey Shor said. Many staff members work remotely several days per week, and the group no longer needs the 33,000 square feet it now rents at 216 W. Jackson Blvd., a Class C building constructed in 1899. This week the agency moves into 11,000 square feet at 230 W. Monroe St., a 1970s-era Class B property. Its new lease, which Witt helped put together, will save it $400,000 each year in rent.

We are a nonprofit and those who invest in us expect their money will help someone get counseling and improve their mental health, or help a refugee resettle in Chicago, so we have to be good stewards, Shor said.

And although 230 W. Monroe St. does not have the same amenities provided by the glittering new trophy towers along the Chicago River or in Fulton Market, it provides a health club, conference facilities and better-lit, updated offices.

We also want clients to feel comfortable, and staff deserves the chance to work in a space that feels good, Shor said. In 216 West Jackson we have a warren of offices, some down dark hallways or without windows, but in our new space youll be able to see whos in the office.

Signing new lease deals can also get tenants out of financially troubled buildings, whose owners may have trouble maintaining the properties or funding improvements, said Davidson. Like an increasing number of downtown towers, the office portion of Heartlands current home at 208 S. LaSalle St. had been ensnared in a foreclosure lawsuit, but the owners of 55 E. Monroe St. have no debt on the property.

They have the wherewithal, Davidson said. Youve got to start asking whether the building youre in can perform, because it might be in receivership or could be on a watchlist.

Hawthorne-Berry said Heartlands new space, which will be less than half the size of its current office, is under construction and the building owners picked up the cost. It will have more open space, more windows, and rooms where employees can gather in teams or seek out privacy.

We have a lot of cubicles and single offices at 208, and very little collaborative space, she said. If we went looking in 2017 or 2018, there would have been no way, from a financial standpoint, that the market would have allowed us to do this.

Hawthorne-Berry has some advice for groups with expiring leases.

Sit down, examine how you are utilizing your space, start having conversations with a really good broker and see what the market has for you, she said.

Not every office user is shrinking. Gonzalezs Scale Marketing outgrew its old office at 730 N. Franklin St., and the massive amount of vacant space on the market gave it the opportunity to expand and upgrade at a lower cost, said Managing Partner Morrie DeZara.

Five years ago, the firm occupied 4,500 square feet and employed about 10 people, but since then it grew to roughly 60, he added. And although Scales employees work remotely part of the time, most staff come downtown on the same two days so they can meet and collaborate in person with their colleagues, so a smaller footprint wasnt an option.

We also wanted to step up into an A office, said DeZara, so Michael Heaney and Mark Montana, a brokerage team from Avison Young, found the firm almost 17,000 square feet of ready-made space on the 23rd floor of 515 N. State St. We fell in love with it immediately.

Derek Faust, a senior strategist at Scale, said he drives in twice a week from the north suburbs, and the sleek, modern space makes it easier to speak with clients and co-workers.

At the old office we were on top of each other, he said, and here the space absorbs sound instead of projecting it, so we can talk with others without being shushed.

And the bargain basement price isnt even its best feature, DeZara said.

This is a wow space, and Im confident this is going to help us hire and retain top talent, he said. We feel like we hit the jackpot.
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I greatly appreciate Viktor Orbans political talent, I trust he can handle the US, former star TV host Tucker Carson has told the website mandiner.hu.

Carlson continued: Orban is not an extremist. He is an extremely talented politician. He is trusted with a country in Central Europe, in the ring of seven neighbouring countries...



Referring to the current war in Ukraine, Carlson posited: I doubt Viktor Orban or any other Hungarian loves Russians but they have to get along with Russia, because this enormous country will always be there. They cant just be filed away as a wicked empire and cease dialogue with it. They must maintain dialogue because they need energy agreements
YORK  Few people today know much about the largest child migration in history. Between 1854 and 1929 over 250,000 orphans and unwanted children were taken out of New York City and given away at train stations across America, many of them to Nebraska. Between 1861 and 1925, approximately 4,000 children from the trains made their homes in our state in such towns as North Platte, Lexington, Broadwater, Elkhorn, West Point, Beatrice, Neligh, and many others.

To bring this rich part of Nebraska History to underserved areas in the state Humanities Nebraska has funded several presentations of the multi-media program Orphan Trains to Nebraska in September. The program will come to Yorks Public Library, Kilgore Memorial Library, on Wednesday, September 13.

The one-hour multi- media program called Riders on the Orphan Train is the award-winning official Educational Outreach Program of the National Orphan Train Complex Museum and Research Center in Concordia, KS. The program, that has toured nationally since 1998, combines live music by Phillip Lancaster and Alison Moore, video montage with historical photographs and interviews of survivors, and a dramatic reading of the 2012 novel Riders on the Orphan Train by award-winning author Alison Moore. Although the program is about children, it is designed to engage audiences of all ages and to inform, inspire and raise awareness about this little-known part of history.

This placing out system was originally organized by Methodist minister Charles Loring Brace and the Childrens Aid Society of New York. His mission was to rid the streets and overcrowded orphanages of homeless children and provide them with an opportunity to find new homes. Many of the children were not orphans but surrendered by parents too impoverished to keep them. The New York Foundling Hospital, a Catholic organization, also sent out children to be placed in Catholic homes. This seventy-five-year experiment in child relocation is filled with the entire spectrum of human emotion and reveals a great deal about the successes and failures of the American Dream.

Local relatives and acquaintances of Orphan Train Riders are especially invited to attend and share their stories with the audience.

Alison Moore, Author/Humanities Scholar

Alison Moore, MFA, is a former Assistant Professor of English/Creative Writing in the MFA Creative Writing Program at the University of Arizona and a current Humanities Scholar in Texas. She lives in Austin and completed the novel Riders on the Orphan Train with a fiction fellowship from the National Endowment for the Arts and a grant from the Texas Institute of Letters and the Dobie/Paisano Foundation of the University of Texas at Austin. She is the author of three other books, a collection of short stories entitled The Middle of Elsewhere (Phoenix International/University of Arkansas Press 2006), a novel, Synonym for Love (Penguin/Plume, 1996) and the short fiction collection Small Spaces between Emergencies (Mercury House, 1992), one of the Notable Books of 1993 chosen by The American Library Association. In 2012 she received the Charles Loring Brace Award for her role in preserving the stories of the Orphan Trains.

Phil Lancaster, Presenter/Musician

Phil Lancaster was born in Texarkana and studied art and music at LEcole De Beaux Arts in Angers, France. He became a member of a

bluegrass band that traveled and played throughout France and produced an album entitled Bluegrass Oldies Ltd./Traveling Show. He also worked as a stage theatre technician for La Coursive Theatre Nationale in La Rochelle, France. After returning to the U.S. he met three

Arkansas musicians and the acoustic quartet Still on the Hill was formed in Fayetteville. They released their first CD in 1997, the second in 2000. The group performed at national and international festivals. In 2007 he received an Arkansas Arts Council fellowship for Music Composition. He currently lives in Austin and is a co-presenter of Riders on the Orphan Train. He also tours in France with musician Phillipe Charlot in the duo Trans-Atlantique.

In 2012 she received the Charles Loring Brace Award for her role in preserving the stories of the Orphan Trains.
PATNA: In a shocking incident, a teenage girl has been raped and murdered in Bihars Samastipur district. The girl was allegedly lured by a youth who later sexually assaulted her before forcing her to consume poison. The victim was found in an unconscious state in her village which falls under the Mufassil police station on Saturday evening.

The family members of the victim had admitted her to the Sadar hospital in Samastipur from where the doctors referred her to the Patna Medical College and Hospital (PMCH), where she died during treatment on Tuesday. The family members took her body to the village, where angry villagers blocked the road demanding action against the accused.

My niece had gone out for some work on Saturday when a person from the village lured her and took her to some other place. After sexually assaulting my niece, the accused forcibly made her consume poison in a bid to kill her. "We had gone to the Mufassil police station after she went missing, but the cops there demanded bribe to register an FIR, claimed the uncle of the victim.

Sanjay Kumar Pandey, the DSP of Sadar range, Samastipur, said: We have registered an FIR under the relevant sections of POCSO Act and IPC at the Mufassil police station . The matter is under investigation. The accused, who is on the run, will be put behind bars soon.
To ensure the safe and peaceful organisation of key G20 events, the Delhi government has announced a three-day lockdown in Delhi. The G20 Summit is scheduled to be held in the national capital over two days  September 9-10  at the state-of-the-art Bharat Mandapam Convention Centre at Pragati Maidan. India assumed the G20 Presidency on December 1 last year. While Delhi Police has made elaborate security arrangements in the national capital, the government also announced the closure of business establishments.

Office of Labour Commissioner, Delhi government, today issued a notice that all shops, commercial and business establishments in New Delhi district from Sept 8th to 10th remain closed and grant paid holiday to employees or workers, in view of G20 summit.

"The G-20 summit 2023 will be held in Delhi from 08/09/2023 to 10/09/2023, which will be attended by various Heads of States, Heads of Goverment including EU, invitee guest countries and Heads of International Organizations," said the Addtional Labour Commissioner in its statement. The statement further said, "In view of the magnitude of this event and the logistical arrangements involved, General Administration Department, GNCTD has issued notification dated 24/08/2023 for public holidays from 08/09/2023 to 10/09/2023."

The employees of private sector will be three days paid holiday from September 8 to 10. However, it's pertinent to mention that the 'lockdown' holiday will be applicable only in the New Delhi district of the national capital and establishments in the other districts will function as usual.

G20 was founded in 1999 after the Asian financial crisis as a forum for Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors to discuss global economic and financial issues. It was upgraded to the level of Heads of State or Government in the wake of the global economic and financial crisis of 2007, and, in 2009, was designated the premier forum for international economic cooperation. The G20 members represent around 85 per cent of the global GDP, over 75 per cent of the global trade, and about two-thirds of the world population.
New Delhi: The Delhi Police has registered a case against a teacher who allegedly used offensive words against the Muslim community in front of her students in a school in Gandhi Nagar, east Delhi. Speaking to news agency ANI, parent Kausar, who is a parent of two students studying in the school, said that the teacher insulted the Kaaba -- the holy building in Mecca -- and the Quran, the holy book of Islam.

"Two of my children study here - one in std 7 and the other in std 4. If the teacher goes unpunished, other teachers will get emboldened and they will speak things like "hamare deen ke nahi hain." They should be told to just teach and not speak on things about which they have no knowledge...There is no use of a teacher who creates differences among students. We demand that the teacher be removed from the school, she should not teach in any school because she will do the same wherever she goes,'' ANI quoted Kausar as saying.

#WATCH | Parents of a government school in Delhi accuse a woman teacher of "using religious words" before students.



A parent, Kausar says, "Two of my children study here - one in std 7 and the other in std 4. If the teacher goes unpunished, other teachers will get emboldened pic.twitter.com/SZQBpt0B2M  ANI (@ANI) August 29, 2023

DCP Shahdara Rohit Meena told ANI that they have taken cognisance of the matter and are counselling the students involved with the help of a Juvenile Welfare Officer and counsellors. He said that legal action will be taken based on the facts and appropriate sections will be applied. He said that it was a government school and there were 2-3 students who needed counselling.

Anil Kumar Bajpai, the MLA of Gandhi Nagar, condemned the incident and said that a teacher's duty is to provide good education to children. He said that it was wrong for a teacher to make derogatory remarks against any religion or sacred place. He said that such people should be arrested.

This incident comes after another case of a teacher in Muzaffarnagar, Uttar Pradesh, who was seen in a viral video asking the students to slap their classmate who belonged to a minority community.

The incident happened on August 24 at Neha Public School, located at Khubbapur village under Mansurpur police station. The teacher, Tripta Tyagi, was booked for the offence but she tried to downplay it as a "minor issue".
CHENNAI: The National Democratic Alliance (NDA) is a non-starter in Tamil Nadu even as the 2024 general elections are a few months away. The AIADMK, that can give a run for money to the DMK in Dravidian politics, wants to head the alliance in Tamil Nadu which the state BJP is reluctant to abide to. More than this, the AIADMK and BJP are at loggerheads after the arrival of K. Annamalai, a former IPS officer, as the state president of the BJP. Annamalai also came out against AIADMK on several occasions, accusing the AIADMK senior leaders of corruption.

AIADMK, which is the only party after DMK that has a ground base in Tamil Nadu, came out against the BJP president and his antics. In a recent meeting held in New Delhi, Prime Minister Narendra Modi invited AIADMK supreme leader, Edappadi K. Palaniswami (EPS) which didn't augur well with the state BJP.

Another ally of the NDA, the Pattali Makkal Katchi (PMK), is also not in full support of the BJP in Tamil Nadu with the party wanting to take the leadership of the NDA in the state much to the dislike of the AIADMK.

With two major associates of the BJP, wanting to head the alliance, there is a general feeling of mutual distrust and this has led to the NDA puffing and panting in the state.

Sources in the BJP told IANS that the party is trying its best to bring the coalition in good stead but it has to be seen how the three major parties that are pulling in different directions could go forward.

R.K. Mohanachandran, researcher and social activist while speaking to IANS said, If the NDA alliance does not settle their internal bickering, it will be difficult for the alliance to get seats from Tamil Nadu as the DMK-led front is very much active at the grassroot level with several new social welfare schemes. With elections only a few months away, the BJP national leadership will have to iron out differences and fight the elections.
Patna: Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP Sanjay Jaiswal was shown black flags on Monday during a visit to Bihar's West Champaran -- the constituency he represents in Lok Sabha. The flags were shown during his visit to a village in Banjaria block. The people, who showed the former Bihar unit BJP chief black flags, submitted that they have supported Jaiswal and "sent him to Lok Sabha thrice but he has failed to bring any development in the region".

The villagers demanded Jaiswal to point out "what type of developmental work he has undertaken in his own constituency". When the villagers learnt about Jaiswal's visit, they soon gathered at a place, surrounded him and showed black flags.

They also raised slogans against him and displayed posters. The villagers also asked Jaiswal to go back. The people in the village also criticised the BJP, saying the party was into "Hindu-Muslim politics" to collect votes.

"After the election, they forget all the people and stay in the comfort of their house," a villager said. Jaiswal, who was already stunned, tried to explain the work he carried out in the constituency but the local villagers were not ready to listen to him.
Kolkata: West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has warned that the nation would face an autocratic rule. If the BJP ruling at the Centre comes to power after the Lok Sabha elections due next year. "If BJP returns to power for the third consecutive term, the nation would face an autocratic rule. I am apprehensive that they (BJP) could hold the Lok Sabha elections in December itself or in January next year," she said. "The saffron party has already turned our country into a nation in the throes of animosity among communities. If they return to power, it will make our country a nation of hatred," she said.

The TMC supremo also suggested that the BJP could hold the Lok Sabha elections in December itself or in January next year. She further claimed that the saffron party has booked all choppers for election campaigning.

Mamata Banerjee, who was speaking at a TMC youth wing rally, cautioned that a third term for the BJP would ensure the nation faces an "autocratic" rule. The Chief Minister also blamed some people engaged in "unlawful activities" for the illegal firecracker factory blasts that have occurred in the state. She alleged that this was being done "with support from a few police personnel".

The general elections are due in 2024. The BJP has "already booked all choppers" to campaign in the Lok Sabha polls, so that no other political party can use those for canvassing, Mamata Banerjee claimed.

Speaking about the blast at an illegal firecracker factory in West Bengal's North 24 Parganas district on Sunday morning in which nine people were killed, the CM said: "Some people are engaged in illegal activities, and a few police personnel are supporting this.

"The majority of policemen are doing their duty with utmost sincerity, but some are helping such people. They must remember that just like the anti-ragging cell, we also have an anti-corruption cell in Bengal." The TMC supremo urged those involved in the firecracker industry to start manufacturing green firecrackers.

"What is the problem in producing green firecrackers? Maybe the profit is a bit less, but it is much safer and environment-friendly," she said. Mamata Banerjee also alleged that Governor C V Ananda Bose was violating constitutional norms and that she does not support his "unconstitutional activities".

"Don't take 'panga' (challenge) with an elected government," the chief minister said, referring to C V Ananda Bose. Mamata Banerjee said she had ended the three-decade-long CPI(M) rule in Bengal and will now defeat the BJP in the Lok Sabha elections.

Hitting out at ABVP and BJP activists who raised 'goli maro' slogans at Jadavpur University, Mamata Banerjee said she had instructed the police to arrest those involved in voicing hate slogans at the varsity. "Those raising such slogans should not forget this is Bengal; this is not Uttar Pradesh," she asserted.

Reacting to Mamata Banerjee's remarks over the general elections, CPI(M) central committee member Sujan Chakraborty said the chief minister is an expert in keeping track of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. "So, when she is saying so, it might be that the RSS is thinking on those lines," he said.

Sujan Chakraborty said that Mamata Banerjee's assertion could also be an attempt to mislead other political parties. "It will have to be seen what really happens," he added.
Imphal: The crucial one-day session of the Manipur Assembly will take place on Tuesday during which a discussion on the state's prevailing situation of ethnic strife will be held, though most of the Kuki MLAs, regardless of party affiliations, are likely to skip the session over safety concerns. Six of the ten MLAs from Kuki-dominated areas have already sought leave of absence from the Speaker of the assembly.

Speaker Thokchom Satyabrata Singh announced on Saturday that the fourth session of the 12th Manipur Legislative Assembly will take place on August 29, focusing on the current state of affairs. Several resolutions related to the ethnic crisis could be introduced during the session, news agency IANS cited BJP sources as saying.

On the recommendations of the state cabinet, Manipur Governor Anusuiya Uikey called for the Monsoon Session of the state assembly on (Tuesday) August 29. This move follows demands from the primary opposition party, the Congress, and various other organisations, urging the assembly to convene and deliberate on the ongoing ethnic turmoil.

The government last month recommended a session by August 21, but later revised it to August 28 on not getting a green light from the Raj Bhavan. Last week, the Chief Minister's Office announced the assembly will reconvene on August 29.

The previous Assembly session was held in March and according to the norms, a session must be held every six months. The Committee on Tribal Unity (CoTU) and the Indigenous Tribal Leaders Forum (ITLF) had recently denounced the convening of the session saying the present situation is not conducive for Kuki-Zo MLAs to attend.

In a joint statement on Sunday, both organisations said considering the complete breakdown of law and order and the failure of the state government to protect the lives of the common people and officials, convening the session "is devoid of logic and rationality."

On Saturday, former Manipur chief minister and Congress leader Okram Ibobi Singh said the session is an eyewash and not in the public interest. More than 160 people lost their lives and several hundreds were injured since ethnic clashes broke out in Manipur on May 3.
Kolkata: Bhakt Banshi Jha (36), a mole of the Pakistani intelligence agency, who was arrested by the Special Task Force (STF) of Kolkata Police last week on charges of leaking confidential defence-related information, had plans to blow up a rail-bridge at Howrah and a famous temple adjacent to it. Based on his interrogation, and data from his personal mobile phone, the investigating officials have got specific information about the accused sending photographs of the rail-bridge and the adjacent temple to a woman based out of Pakistan.

The investigating officials have also recovered several messages exchanged through social media platforms by Jha with Pak-based terror outfit operators indicating that the roots of the accused in the case are quite deep. City police sources said that the Pakistan woman, reportedly operating as the country's intelligence agency, had been in touch with him for quite some time.

However, it is not clear whether Jha even went to Pakistan or that woman came to India. Last week, based on the inputs by sister agencies, the STF sleuths arrested Jha on charges of direct involvement in activities prejudicial to the safety of the country.

He was summoned for questioning at the STF office at the Kolkata Police headquarters at Lal Bazar in central Kolkata on Friday evening and after a long questioning session, he was arrested on the evening of August 25.

Secret information like photographs, videographs and online chat could be retrieved from his mobile phone during inquiry, which was shared to a suspected intelligence operative of Pakistan by the accused, a city police official said soon after the arrest of Jha.

The intelligence operative of Pakistan whom the accused used to frequently chat through different social media platforms has been identified as Aarushi Sharma. Before coming to Kolkata, Jha had resided in Delhi for quite some time, where he is believed to have taken photographs of vital defence-installations and cantonments.
Cryptocurrencies surged after a federal appeals court sided with an asset manager that hopes to launch the first bitcoin exchange-traded fund over the objections of the Securities and Exchange Commission.

The decision in favor of Grayscale Investments was a major win for the industry as it pushes for wider mainstream exposure to digital assets. It was a blow to the SEC, which is in the middle of a wider crackdown on the industry.

The price of bitcoin (BTC-USD) rose more than 5%, jumping above $27,000, its biggest one-day jump since June. Coinbase (COIN), the largest crypto exchange in the US, soared more than 13%, while bitcoin mining companies Marathon Digital (MARA) and Riot Blockchain (RIOT) jumped 18% and 24%, respectively.

Asset managers have for years been trying to convince the SEC to approve a spot bitcoin ETF, which would allow investors to get exposure to the worlds largest cryptocurrency without having to own it. The SEC denied the various applications, arguing the products were vulnerable to market manipulation.

Grayscale in 2022 decided to sue the SEC after it wasn't allowed to convert its Grayscale Bitcoin Trust (GBTC) into a spot bitcoin offering, arguing the agency had already approved exchange-traded products that hold bitcoin futures contracts and thus acted arbitrarily and capriciously.

A three-judge appeals panel agreed with Grayscale, saying Tuesday in its decision that Grayscale advanced substantial evidence its product was similar to Bitcoin futures ETFs approved by the SEC.

BlackRock has asked the SEC for approval to create a spot boitcoin ETF. (STRF/STAR MAX/IPx)

The denial of Grayscales proposal was arbitrary and capricious because the Commission failed to explain its different treatment of similar products, judge Neomi Rao said in the opinion.

The decision could bolster the chances for other asset managers to win approval for their products. The worlds largest money manager, BlackRock (BLK), filed paperwork with the SEC in June to create a spot bitcoin exchange-traded fund. Coinbase would be the custodian for those bitcoin holdings.

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This summer other institutional players such as Invesco and WisdomTree Investments have also renewed spot bitcoin ETF applications they had previously submitted to regulators.

To our mind there is no doubt now spot BTC ETFs are coming to the US," said Tim Bevan, founder and CEO of UK-based crypto financial services company ETC Group. "The level of pent-up institutional and retail demand in the US is significant.

The SEC said Tuesday that it is reviewing the new court decision and will decide on its next steps. A Grayscale spokesperson said, The Grayscale team and our legal advisors are actively reviewing the details outlined in the courts opinion and will be pursuing next steps with the SEC."

The SEC is fighting battles with the cryptocurrency industry on a number of other fronts. Since the beginning of 2023, the SEC has charged 17 different crypto actors with violating securities laws, including several exchanges that allow investors to trade digital currencies as well as individual issuers of digital tokens.

The SECs core assertion in many of these cases is that cryptocurrencies are securities, and therefore should be registered with the agency.

The courts thus far have not been clear on how digital currencies should be treated.

Analisa Torres, a US judge in the Southern District of New York, said on July 13 that a digital token issued by Ripple Labs was a security only when it was sold to institutional investors, and not when it was purchased by the general public. The SEC had also sued Ripple for selling unregistered securities.

Then July 31, US judge Jed Rakoff disagreed with that specific view in his case, in which the SEC has alleged stablecoin issuer Terraform Labs sold unregistered securities.

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New Delhi: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi is likely to visit Europe next month and meet European Commission lawmakers in Belgium besides addressing students at a university in Paris. He is also likely to address the Indian diaspora at an event in Oslo early September, sources said. Notably, his visits abroad will come at a time when the crucial G20 Summit will be held from September 9 to 10 in the national capital. India currently holds the G20 presidency.

The sources said the Gandhi scion is likely to leave for Paris in the the first week of September for a five-day tour. He will attend a meeting with European Union members in Brussels on September 7.

According to the sources, the former Congress chief will address students at a university in Paris on September 8 and deliver a lecture there. He is also slated to participate in a meeting of the Labour Union of France in Paris on September 9.

Thereafter, the sources said Gandhi is slated to visit Norway where he will address the Indian diaspora event on September 10. Gandhi will be meeting members of the diaspora and may also hold a press conference, they added.
New Delhi: The Centre informed the Supreme Court on Tuesday that Jammu and Kashmirs union territory status is not a permanent thing and that it will present a detailed statement on the contentious political issue in the court on August 31. Union Territory status of Ladakh to continue for some time, Centre tells SC bench hearing petitions against abrogation of Article 370. The central governments answer was communicated to the court by Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, after a five-judge constitution bench led by Chief Justice DY Chandrachud, who was listening to the pleas against the scrapping of Article 370, asked it to define a time frame for restoring electoral democracy in the former state.

The union territory status of Jammu and Kashmir is not a lasting thing. As for Ladakh, its UT status will continue for some time, Mehta said. The top government law officer said he will give a detailed statement on the future of the union territory status of J-K and Ladakh before the bench, which also includes Justices Sanjay Kishan Kaul, Sanjiv Khanna, BR Gavai and Surya Kant, on August 31.

The bench, which was listening to Mehtas arguments supporting the Centres decision to scrap the special status of the old state and its reorganisation, said, Democracy is important, though we agree that in view of the national security situation, reorganisation of the state can be done.

The court, however, said absence of electoral democracy cannot be allowed to go on forever. This has to end Give us the specific time frame as to when will you bring back actual democracy. We want to record this, the bench said, and asked Mehta and Attorney General R Venkataramani to seek instructions from the political executive and get back to the court.

Article 35(A) Took Away Fundamental Rights: CJI

Earlier on Monday, Chief Justice of India D Y Chandrachud observed that by enacting Article 35A, fundamental rights of equality, liberty to practice profession in any part of the country and others were virtually taken away. He made the remarks after Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for the Centre, referred to the contentious provision in the Indian Constitution, saying it gave special rights to only permanent residents of the erstwhile state and was discriminatory. Without naming the two mainstream political parties of the erstwhile state, the Centre told a five-judge bench headed by CJI Chandrachud that citizens have been misguided that the special provisions for Jammu and Kashmir were "not discrimination but a privilege".

"Even today two political parties are before this court defending Article 370 and 35A," the solicitor general told the top court on the 11th day of hearing the litany of pleas challenging the abrogation of the constitutional provision which bestowed special status to the erstwhile state of J-K.

The solicitor general further submitted that the effect of Article 370 was such that by the administrative act of the President and the state government, any part of the Constitution of India with respect to J-K can be amended, altered or even "destroyed" and new provisions can be created. He said that after the 42nd amendment, the words "Socialist" and "Secular" were not made applicable to Jammu and Kashmir. "Even the word "Integrity" is not there. Fundamental duties were not there, which exists in the Indian Constitution.
New Delhi: Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Tuesday ordered the suspension of teachers and the vice-principal of a government school in northwest Delhi over their alleged failure to report to police the sexual assault of two boys by their classmates. The Chief Minister also directed the Directorate of Education to prepare high-quality material for reference of all teachers and principals and issue guidelines for schools to handle cases of abuse in a supportive environment for children.

On the direction of the Chief Minister, Delhi Education Minister Atishi has written to the Directorate of Education to ensure rigorous training of all principals and teachers on the provisions of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act to avoid such incidents in future.

Delhi Education Minister Atishi writes to the Education Secretary over the news reports of the sexual assault of two schoolboys by their classmates. pic.twitter.com/vasUxtgRuP  ANI (@ANI) August 29, 2023

The two boys, aged 12 and 13 years, have filed separate complaints with the police alleging that they were sexually assaulted by five to six classmates. Police said the alleged incident took place in April during a summer camp organised by the school.

The 13-year-old boy, a student of class 8, alleged that his classmates forcefully took him to a park and sexually assaulted him. They also threatened him not to disclose it to anyone, officials said.

A few days ago when the boys started troubling him, he told his teachers about the incident who asked him not to tell anyone about this, they said, adding the victim informed his parents who later made a PCR call and a case was registered on Sunday.
New Delhi: Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Tuesday said that the 2024 Lok Sabha elections are likely to be advanced as the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) fears with time it will suffer more loss because of the Opposition unity. The Janata Dal (United) supremo's remark came a day after West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee said that she was apprehensive that the upcoming General elections could be held in December this year, or in January.

"I have been saying it for the last seven-eight months that the NDA government at the Centre might go for early Lok Sabha polls, fearing more loss to the BJP because of opposition unity," Nitish Kumar told reporters.

"Therefore, all opposition parties must come together to defeat the BJP in the Lok Sabha polls. I am once again repeating that I have no desire for myself, I have no personal ambitions. My only wish is to unite the maximum number of parties (opposed to the BJP) before the elections," he added.

Kumar, who recently said that more parties are likely to join the Opposition coalition INDIA, declined to divulge any details.

"We have taken initiatives for unity among the opposition parties. The opposition coalition INDIA will further strengthen after the Mumbai meeting on August 31 and September 1," the Bihar CM said.

The next General election is expected to be conducted between April and May 2024 to elect the members of the 18th Lok Sabha. The tenure of the 17th Lok Sabha is scheduled to end on June 16, 2024.

Earlier on Monday, Mamata Banerjee said that the BJP might conduct the Lok Sabha polls in December itself, claiming that all choppers have been booked by the saffron party for campaigning. Speaking at a Trinamool Congress (TMC) students' wing rally, she also cautioned that a third term for the BJP would ensure the nation faces an 'autocratic' rule.

"I am apprehensive that they (BJP) could hold the Lok Sabha elections in December 2023 itself, or in January... If the BJP returns to power for the third consecutive term, the nation would face an autocratic rule," she said.

Banerjee claimed that the BJP has 'already booked all choppers' to campaign in the Lok Sabha polls so that no other political party can use those for canvassing.

"The saffron party has already turned our country into a nation in the throes of animosity among communities. If they return to power, it will make our country a nation of hatred," she said.
New Delhi: Chief Justice of India D Y Chandrachud on Monday observed that by enacting Article 35A, fundamental rights of equality, liberty to practice profession in any part of the country and others were virtually taken away. He made the remarks after Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for the Centre, referred to the contentious provision in the Indian Constitution, saying it gave special rights to only permanent residents of the erstwhile state and was discriminatory. Without naming the two mainstream political parties of the erstwhile state, the Centre told a five-judge bench headed by CJI Chandrachud that citizens have been misguided that the special provisions for Jammu and Kashmir were "not discrimination but a privilege".

\"Even today two political parties are before this court defending Article 370 and 35A," the solicitor general told the top court on the 11th day of hearing the litany of pleas challenging the abrogation of the constitutional provision which bestowed special status to the erstwhile state of J-K.

The solicitor general further submitted that the effect of Article 370 was such that by the administrative act of the President and the state government, any part of the Constitution of India with respect to J-K can be amended, altered or even "destroyed" and new provisions can be created. He said that after the 42nd amendment, the words "Socialist" and "Secular" were not made applicable to Jammu and Kashmir. "Even the word "Integrity" is not there. Fundamental duties were not there, which exists in the Indian Constitution.

"The Jammu and Kashmir Constitution provided for a separate provision for permanent residents of J-K in Article 7. It removed references to Scheduled Tribes from Article 15(4). Other Articles 19, 22, 31, 31A and 32 were applied with some modifications?," Mehta said. On Article 35A, he said it was discriminatory, to say the least. "Under the provision (A-35A), people like sanitation workers working in the erstwhile state for decades were not given equal rights like that of permanent residents of J-K.

"This discrimination continued till the provision was abrogated in 2019. Non-permanent residents of J-K were not able to purchase lands, could not avail scholarship, employment in the state government," he said, urging the court to look into issues from the "eyes of people". CJI Chandrachud deciphering Mehta's submissions said that by enacting Article 35A, "you virtually took away fundamental rights" of equality, liberty to practice profession in any part of the country and even granted immunity from legal challenges and the power of judicial review.

The Solicitor General said, "People were misguided by those - who were supposed to guide them - that this was not a discrimination but a privilege. Even today two political parties are before this court defending Article 370 and 35A." Mehta submitted that the Constitution of Jammu and Kashmir needed to be repealed because it could not co-exist with the Indian constitution.

The apex court also prima facie agreed with the Centre's submission on pleas challenging the abrogation of Article 370 that the Constitution of Jammu and Kashmir is "subordinate" to the Indian Constitution, which is on a higher pedestal. The bench, however, did not seem to agree with the plea that the Constituent Assembly of the erstwhile state, which was disbanded in 1957, was in reality a legislative assembly.
New Delhi: The Chandrayaan-3 mission's rover 'Pragyan' is now all set to uncover the 'secrets' of the Moon. In a post on X (formerly known as Twitter) on Tuesday, the Chandrayaan-3 mission's account said that the 'Pragyan' rover and his 'friend' Vikram Lander are in touch and in good health.

"Hello earthlings! This is Chandrayaan-3's Pragyan Rover. I hope you're doing well. I want to let everyone know that I'm on my way to uncover the secrets of the Moon. Me and my friend Vikram Lander are in touch. We're in good health. The best is coming soon...," the X post read.

Hello earthlings! This is #Chandrayaan3's Pragyan Rover. I hope you're doing well. I want to let everyone know that I'm on my way to uncover the secrets of the Moon . Me and my friend Vikram Lander are in touch. We're in good health. The best is coming soon...#ISRO pic.twitter.com/ZbIgvy22fv  LVM3-M4/CHANDRAYAAN-3 MISSION (@chandrayaan_3) August 29, 2023

Earlier on Monday, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) informed that the Chandrayaan-3 mission's rover 'Pragyan' came across a four-metre diameter crater just ahead of its location on the lunar surface before it was commanded to retrace its path.

"It's now safely heading on a new path," the Indian space agency said in a social media post.

Chandrayaan-3 Mission:



On August 27, 2023, the Rover came across a 4-meter diameter crater positioned 3 meters ahead of its location.

The Rover was commanded to retrace the path.



It's now safely heading on a new path.#Chandrayaan_3#Ch3 pic.twitter.com/QfOmqDYvSF  ISRO (@isro) August 28, 2023

ISRO said the rover came across a four-metre diameter crater located three metres ahead of its location on August 27. "The rover was commanded to retrace the path," it added.

ALSO READ | After Chandrayaan-3's Historic Moon Landing, ISRO Gears Up For More Challenging Missions

ISRO on Sunday released the first observations from the ChaSTE payload onboard the 'Vikram' lander of the country's third lunar mission Chandrayaan-3.

ChaSTE (Chandra's Surface Thermophysical Experiment) measures the temperature profile of the lunar topsoil around the pole, to understand the thermal behaviour of the Moon's surface.

It has a temperature probe equipped with a controlled penetration mechanism capable of reaching a depth of 10 cm beneath the surface. The probe is fitted with 10 individual temperature sensors.

ISRO came out with a graph illustrating the temperature variations of the lunar surface/near-surface at various depths, as recorded during the probe's penetration. This is the first such profile for the lunar south pole. Detailed observations are underway, the space agency said.

ISRO has said two of the three Chandrayaan-3 mission objectives have been achieved while the third -- in-situ scientific experiments -- are underway.

Chandrayaan-3 Mission:

What's new here?



Pragyan rover roams around Shiv Shakti Point in pursuit of lunar secrets at the South Pole ! pic.twitter.com/1g5gQsgrjM August 26, 2023

India last week scripted history as the Chandrayaan-3's lander module touched down on the lunar surface, making it only the fourth country to accomplish the feat, and the first to reach near the uncharted south pole of Earth's only natural satellite.

Chandrayaan-3 mission: Union Cabinet adopts resolution hailing soft-landing on Moon

Meanwhile, the Union Cabinet on Tuesday adopted a resolution hailing the soft-landing of Chandrayaan-3 on the lunar surface, saying the success of the mission is a victory not just for the ISRO but a symbol of India's progress and ascent on the global stage. It also welcomed that August 23 would be celebrated as the 'National Space Day'.



Briefing reporters, Union minister Anurag Thakur said the Cabinet congratulated the Indian Space Research Organisation on its efforts. It thanked the scientists and noted that India has become the first country to land near the Moon's south pole.



"Landing on the moon, with predicted accuracy, in itself is a momentous achievement.



"Landing near the South Pole of the Moon, overcoming the arduous conditions, is a testament to the spirit of our scientists who since centuries have sought to push the boundaries of human knowledge," read the resolution.



The Cabinet said it believes that India's advancements in the space sector are more than just monumental scientific achievements. They represent a vision of progress, self-reliance, and global leadership. This is also a symbol of the rising New India.



"This Cabinet commends and appreciates every individual who has contributed to this landmark mission, acknowledging that Chandrayaan-3 is a glowing testament to what India can achieve with passion, perseverance and unwavering dedication," the resolution said.



The wealth of information being sent by the 'Pragyan' rover from the Moon will advance knowledge and pave the way for ground-breaking discoveries and insights into the mysteries of the moon and beyond, the resolution said.



"The Cabinet is proud to see that a large number of women scientists have contributed to the success of Chandrayaan-3 and India's space programme in general. This will motivate several aspiring women scientists in the years to come," the resolution noted.



It also congratulated Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his 'visionary and exemplary leadership, and his unwavering commitment to India's space programme for human welfare and scientific progress'.



"His faith in the capabilities of our scientists and his constant encouragement have always fortified their spirit," the Cabinet resolution pointed out.



In his 22 long years as the head of a government, first in Gujarat and later as prime minister, Modi has had an emotional attachment with all Chandrayaan missions, it said.



Modi was serving as the chief minister when the idea of such a mission was announced by then prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee. When Chandrayaan-1 was successfully launched in 2008, he went to ISRO and personally congratulated the scientists, it recalled.



In the case of Chandrayaan-2 in 2019, when India was just a hair breadth's distance, in space terms, from the moon's surface, the prime minister's sagacious leadership and human touch lifted the scientists' spirits, steeled their resolve and inspired them to pursue the mission with greater purpose, the resolution observed.



"Prime Minister Narendra Modi has always encouraged science and innovation. In the last nine years, a series of reforms have been ushered which have made research and innovation easier. For the space sector, Prime Minister Modi ensured that the private sector and our start-ups got more opportunities in India," it said.



The establishment of IN-SPACe as an autonomous body under the Department of Space to create an eco-system of industry, academia and start-ups and to attract a major share in the global space economy was launched in June 2020.



It has become an instrument for enhancing India's strides in the world of space. The emphasis on Hackathons has opened up many opportunities for young Indians, the resolution said.



The Cabinet also welcomed the naming of two points on the moon as Tiranga Point (the footprint of Chandrayaan-2) and Shiv Shakti Point (Chandrayaan-3's landing spot).



"These names beautifully capture the essence of our past while embracing the spirit of modernity. These names are more than just titles. They establish a thread that intricately links our millennia-old heritage with our scientific ambitions," it read.



The success of Chandrayaan-3 is one of the greatest testimonies to Prime Minister Modi's clarion call of "Jai Vigyan, Jai Anusandhan", it said.



By unequivocally stating that the knowledge that will come from the success of the Chandrayaan-3 mission will be used for the benefit and progress of humanity, especially the countries of the global south, the prime minister has once more manifested the spirit of India's timeless belief in Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, it said.



In this era of science, technology and innovation, the Cabinet especially appealed to those associated with education to inspire more youngsters towards science.



The success of Chandrayaan-3 has given a monumental chance to ignite the spark of interest in these fields and also leverage the window of opportunities in our nation, it said.
New Delhi: The national capital will get its second world-class exhibition-conference centre with the inauguration of the first phase of the India International Convention and Expo Centre (IICC) at Dwarka next month, a senior official has said. The first phase of the project has been built at a cost of over Rs 5,400 crore, the official said.





Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone of the centre in September 2018.The IICC is being developed as a modern centre to promote meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions (MICE) activities to attract and promote business and industry. The project is being developed in two phases.The complete project is planned over an area of 221.37 acres at Dwarka Sector 25 at an estimated cost of Rs 25,703 crore. The total land size of the project is more than Bharat Mandapam's 123 acres. The Bharat Mandapam is set to host the much-awaited G20 Summit next month."The IICC is slated to be one of Asia's largest facilities for Global MICE events. The project showcases the strength of India's growth potential in the MICE sector," IICC Dwarka Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Sumita Dawra said."The demand for such a facility is evident in the fact that we already have major global level events lined up till October 2024," she said.It is expected that the centre will bring New Delhi into the league of Shanghai, Hong Kong and Singapore in the sphere of the exhibition market, according to the Commerce and industry ministry.The phase-1 project area is 8.97 lakh sq metres and the total built-up area is 1.8 lakh sq m. The built-up area includes the exhibition area, convention centres and arena.The area covered by the convention centre is 73,195 sq m.In the first phase, two exhibition halls with a covered area of 1.07 lakh sq metres will also be inaugurated.In all, the convention and expo centre will have five exhibition halls, three of which will come up in the second phase.The convention centre, she said, has the space to host over 11,000 participants and will be one of the largest covered spaces created in the country.It will also have an auditorium with a seating capacity of 6,000 and a ballroom with a capacity of 2,500.The first phase will have 13 other conference rooms with a capacity ranging from 68 to 822 people.The centre is near the Delhi International Airport as well as the business hub of Gurugram.Dawra said dedicated access to the Delhi Airport Express Metro Line has been provided, which is a part of the first phase.While Bharat Mandapam comes under the Department of Commerce, the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) is implementing the convention and expo centre through its fully-owned entity IICC.Kinexin Convention Management Pvt Ltd, a consortium of Korea International Exhibition Centre (KINTEX) and eSang Networks Company Ltd, has been appointed as the operator for exhibition and convention centre for managing the venue for 20 years.Development of the IICC and its supporting components will help India grab a bigger slice of the world market share of hosting major international events and exhibitions.Within Asia, China accounts for more than 68 per cent (4.1 million sq m) of the total available space for exhibition facilities, while India has only 0.3 million sq m, accounting for 4.9 per cent of the share of Asia.In terms of events hosted across Asian markets, Chinese venues took the lead by hosting more than 515 (28 per cent) events in Asia annually, as compared to Indian venues hosting 131 events (7.1 per cent).The absence of high-end world-class exhibitions and conference facilities has dented India's abilities in this space.
New Delhi: Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge on Tuesday took strong objection to the inclusion of Arunachal Pradesh and Aksai Chin in China's 'standard map' and asserted that these are 'inalienable parts' of India. His reaction came a day after China officially released the 2023 edition of its 'standard map' and incorporated Arunachal Pradesh, Aksai Chin region, Taiwan, and the disputed South China Sea.

In a post on X (formerly known as Twitter), Kharge said, "The Indian territories including Arunachal Pradesh and Aksai Chin are an indistinguishable and inalienable part of India. No arbitrarily invented Chinese map can change that."

"China is a habitual offender when it comes to renaming and redrawing maps of territories, belonging to other countries. The Indian National Congress takes strong objection to any such illegal representation or renaming of India's territories," he added.

The Congress president stated that 'we want a peaceful coexistence with our neighbours', including China and want peace and tranquillity at the Line of Actual Control (LAC).

"It is, however, painful to note that China's deception and belligerence continues, post Galwan, in the wake of PM Modi giving them a free pass, by saying 'no one entered our territory', after 20 of our brave soldiers were martyred," he said.

He also asserted that the status quo ante before May 2020 should be of utmost importance, and the government must not budge from anything less than its restoration.

"We hope that the G20 Summit in India, will be another opportunity for us to expose the issue of China's transgressions into Indian territory at the global stage.

"Modi Government must ensure that the illegal Chinese occupation of 2000 square kilometres of Indian territory along the LAC must end," he said.

India has repeatedly said that the state of Arunachal Pradesh has 'always been' and will 'always be' an integral part of the country.

China released the 2023 edition of its 'standard map' days after Prime Minister Narendra Modi conveyed to Chinese President Xi Jinping India's concerns on the 'unresolved' issues along the LAC in eastern Ladakh, underlining that maintenance of peace and tranquillity in border areas was essential for normalization of India-China ties.

The two leaders held a brief conversation on the sidelines of the BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa) summit in South Africa's Johannesburg, and agreed to direct their relevant officials to intensify efforts at 'expeditious disengagement and de-escalation'.

It was their first interaction in public after their brief encounter on the sidelines of the G20 Summit in Bali in November last year.



The ties between India and China have come under severe strain following the eastern Ladakh border row that began in May 2020.



The Indian and Chinese troops are locked in an over three-year standoff in certain friction points in eastern Ladakh even as the two sides completed disengagement from several areas following extensive diplomatic and military talks.



India has been consistently maintaining that peace and tranquillity along the LAC were key for normalisation of overall ties.



India and China held the 19th round of Corps Commander-level talks on August 13 and 14 with a focus on resolving pending issues at the standoff areas of Depsang and Demchok in eastern Ladakh.



A joint statement described the talks as 'positive, constructive and in-depth' and that both sides agreed to resolve the remaining issues in an expeditious manner.



Days after the fresh round of high-level talks, the local commanders of the two militaries held a series of negotiations in two separate locations to resolve issues in Depsang Plains and Demchok.
New Delhi: India on Tuesday lodged a 'strong protest' with China after it incorporated Arunachal Pradesh in its 2023 edition of its 'standard map'. In an official statement, the official spokesperson of the Ministry of External Affairs said that such steps by the Chinese side only 'complicate' the resolution of the boundary question.

"We have today lodged a strong protest through diplomatic channels with the Chinese side on the so called 2023 "standard map of China that lays claim to Indias territory. We reject these claims as they have no basis. Such steps by the Chinese side only complicate the resolution of the boundary question," the official statement read.

Our response to media queries on the so called 2023 standard map of China:https://t.co/OZUwNRNrit pic.twitter.com/sAmy20DEa6  Arindam Bagchi (@MEAIndia) August 29, 2023

China on Monday officially released the 2023 edition of its 'standard map' incorporating the disputed areas including its claims over Arunachal Pradesh, Aksai Chin region, Taiwan, and the disputed South China Sea. It was launched on the website of the standard map service hosted by the Ministry of Natural Resources.



This map is compiled based on the drawing method of the national boundaries of China and various countries in the world.



It is notable that India has repeatedly said that the state of Arunachal Pradesh has "always been" and will "always be" an integral part of the country.

The development comes days after Prime Minister Narendra Modi conveyed to Chinese President Xi Jinping India's concerns on the 'unresolved' issues along the LAC in eastern Ladakh, underlining that maintenance of peace and tranquillity in border areas was essential for normalization of India-China ties.

The two leaders held a brief conversation on the sidelines of the BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa) summit in South Africa's Johannesburg, and agreed to direct their relevant officials to intensify efforts at 'expeditious disengagement and de-escalation'.

It was their first interaction in public after their brief encounter on the sidelines of the G20 Summit in Bali in November last year.



The ties between India and China have come under severe strain following the eastern Ladakh border row that began in May 2020.



The Indian and Chinese troops are locked in an over three-year standoff in certain friction points in eastern Ladakh even as the two sides completed disengagement from several areas following extensive diplomatic and military talks.



India has been consistently maintaining that peace and tranquillity along the LAC were key for normalisation of overall ties.



India and China held the 19th round of Corps Commander-level talks on August 13 and 14 with a focus on resolving pending issues at the standoff areas of Depsang and Demchok in eastern Ladakh.



A joint statement described the talks as 'positive, constructive and in-depth' and that both sides agreed to resolve the remaining issues in an expeditious manner.



Days after the fresh round of high-level talks, the local commanders of the two militaries held a series of negotiations in two separate locations to resolve issues in Depsang Plains and Demchok.
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee today hinted that the ruling NDA government at the Centre was forced to cut the prices of domestic cooking gas due to the fear of the INDIA bloc alliance. In a tweet made shortly after the Centre announced LPG price cut, Banerjee said that while INDIA block held only two meetings so far, domestic gas prices have done down by Rs 200.

"Till now, only TWO meetings have been held in the past TWO months by the INDIA alliance and today, we see that LPG prices have gone down by Rs. 200. Ye hai #INDIA ka dam!" she tweeted.

Till now, only TWO meetings have been held in the past TWO months by the INDIA alliance and today, we see that LPG prices have gone down by Rs. 200.



  #INDIA  !  Mamata Banerjee (@MamataOfficial) August 29, 2023

Five states - Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Telangana, Chhattisgarh and Mizoral will go to polls by the end of this year while the Lok Sabha Elections will be held in May 2024. The LPG prices have been a crucial poll plank of Congress and opposition parties. The domestic LPG prices have been hovering around Rs 1,100 for quite some times and now with the Rs 200 reduction, each LPG cylinder will cost Rs 900 to users other than those covered under Ujjwala scheme. Congress-ruled states like Karnataka, Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh have already been providing LPG cylinders at Rs 500 to those falling under poverty lines.

Providing respite to domestic gas consumers, the Union Cabinet announced a reduction of Rs 200 in the prices of LPG domestic gas cylinders for all users. Information and Broadcasting Minister Anurag Singh Thakur briefed the media about this decision, attributing it as a gesture from Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the women of the nation, coinciding with the occasions of Onam and Raksha Bandhan.

Minister Thakur conveyed, "Prime Minister Modi has taken the step of reducing the cost of domestic LPG cylinders by Rs 200, applicable to all users. This move is Prime Minister Narendra Modi's gift to the women of our country, presented during the celebration of Raksha Bandhan." The Cabinet meeting was presided over by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Thakur also highlighted that the central government has additionally sanctioned the inclusion of 75 lakh more beneficiaries under the Ujjwala gas scheme. At present, the scheme benefits 9.6 crore individuals. Notably, India imports 60 percent of its natural gas to fulfill its requirements.

The minister further underscored that the present government has launched several initiatives for women's development, encompassing initiatives such as durable housing, sanitation facilities, supplementary food provisions, and Direct Benefit Transfers, particularly during the challenges posed by the Covid pandemic.
(Bloomberg) -- Closely held cloud cybersecurity company Wiz Inc. is considering a potential bid for SentinelOne Inc. in what would represent a rare move by a startup to buy a large listed company.

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Wiz spokesperson Tamar Harel said on Friday that the firm was studying the potential acquisition of SentinelOne, which had a market valuation of nearly $4.9 billion on Friday. Harel said Wiz has been tracking SentinelOnes growth journal for the past several years and noted that there are a few companies that would complement Wizs offering and help expand its platform.

Wiz, which is based in New York, has approached bankers to discuss the possibility of acquiring SentinelOne but hasnt yet hired one, according to a person familiar with the matter. One of the banks Wiz spoke to suggested it try to find a partner to help back a potential deal, the person said, asking not to be identified because the matter is private.

Harel said in a statement that Wiz openly discussed the possibility of acquiring companies and that the company consistently evaluates the market as part of our mission to become the worlds leading cloud security company.

Even if Wiz, which was valued at $10 billion earlier this year, is interested in SentinelOne, it would face some hurdles to buying the company and would have to shore up capital to have a chance. In addition, because the discussions are at such an early stage, its unclear whether Wiz would contemplate merging operations and taking Wiz public through a reverse initial public offering.

SentinelOne shares surged as much as 9.1% on Friday to $17.50 on the news. It was trading at $17.02 at 2:52 p.m. New York time.

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SentinelOne has hired an adviser to explore options including a sale, Reuters reported earlier this week, after shares of the Mountain View, California-based company lost about 80% of their value.

A representative for SentinelOne didnt immediately respond to a request for comment.

Talks are at an early stage, and there is no guarantee that Wiz will follow through with an offer.

While Wiz provides cloud security, SentinelOne uses artificial intelligence to prevent, detect and remediate cyber threats. Any private or public deal for SentinelOne could be worth about $6 billion to $8 billion, depending on the type of buyer, according to Bloomberg Intelligence.

Wiz has raised more than $900 million since its founding in 2020 and says that more than a third of Fortune 100 companies use its services. Growth equity firm Insight Partners is an investor in both Wiz and SentinelOne, according to its website.

In March, SentinelOne announced a strategic partnership with Wiz to deliver end-to-end cloud security.

(Updates with additional context in fifth paragraph.)

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New Delhi: B-Town power couple Ranbir Kapoor and Alia Bhatt recently jetted off to New York for a vacation. This is the first time the couple has taken time off from their hectic schedule after they welcomed their daughter Raha Kapoor in October last year. Ranbir and Alia are spending time together in New York and the couple stepped out for a date night. A photo of the two from their New York vacation surfaced on the internet where the celebrity couple is seen posing for their fans.

In the snap, Ranbir and Alia are seen seated next to each other. The 'Saawariya' actor is seen donning a casual grey shirt paired and a matching beanie. On the other hand, and Alia was seen in a multi-coloured outfit and was all smiles for the cameras. As soon as the picture surfaced on the internet, 'Raalia' fans flocked to the comment section and shared their reactions to the couple's photo.

A user wrote, "What happened to Ranbir's nose? It looks swollen."

Another user wrote, "He has deviated septum was spotted at clinic 2 times recently."

Going by a report in Spotboye, Ranbir Kapoor has been dealing with a nasal septum issue since he was a child and not many are aware of this. The actor's nose can appear to be swollen sometimes.

Speaking of Ranbir Kapoor, he is one of the most talented and gifted actors of Bollywood. He made his debut in the acting world with Sanjay Leela Bhansali's 'Saawariya' and went on to deliver several hits including 'Rockstar', 'Bachchna Ae Haseeno', 'Sanju', 'Tamasha', 'Tu Jhoothi Main Makkar', 'Yeh Jawani Hai Deewani' and others.

The actor is currently shooting for Sandeep Reddy Vanga's upcoming action-thriller 'Animal', which also stars Anil Kapoor, Bobby Deol, Rashmika Mandanna, Tripti Dimri, Shakti Kapoor and Suresh Oberoi. The film is set for release on December 1, 2023.
New Delhi: Tech giant Apple has made an official announcement on Tuesday, revealing its plans to host a press event at its headquarters in Cupertino, California. Press invitations have been dispatched for this occasion. Anticipation is building as Apple is projected to unveil a new array of products, with the spotlight shining on the highly awaited iPhone 15 series. Notably, rumors suggest that this series will feature a USB-C charging port. Additionally, the event is expected to showcase the introduction of iOS 17 and more.

While the event is exclusively reserved for invited members, the excitement will extend beyond those walls. Apple has planned a live-stream of the proceedings, accessible to the public, on its website. The scheduled time for the live-stream is 10:30 pm on September 12, 2023.

Apple has traditionally adhered to a September timeline for the launch of new iPhone models and the unveiling of updated operating systems. This practice dates back to the seminal moment when co-founder Steve Jobs introduced the world to the very first iPhone in 2007.
The new subsidiary will accelerate Dalradas sustainability and climate technology service reach in Africa and the Middle East.

SAN DIEGO, August 29, 2023--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Dalrada Financial Corporation (OTCQB: DFCO, "Dalrada"), a problem-solving innovator that takes on complex, multi-disciplinary challenges in climate technology, clean energy, and precision manufacturing, announced today that it had once again expanded its global footprint through the creation of Dalrada Technologies Morocco, an eco-forward service provider of advanced climate technologies.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230829896753/en/

Dalrada Technologies Morocco: Dalrada expands into Africa and the Middle East. (Graphic: Business Wire)

Dalrada Technologies Morocco will primarily focus on providing installation and ongoing support services for Dalradas range of high-efficiency commercial heat pumps to countries within the MENA (Middle East and North Africa) region. Additionally, the subsidiarys main office in Fes will serve as an operational and training hub, while also increasing the possibility of creating a building and manufacturing center for Dalrada heat pumps in Morocco.

The Moroccan subsidiary joins Dalrada during a time of rapid global expansion and advancement of the companys clean energy and climate technologies for improved sustainability on the path toward worldwide Net Zero goals.

"Our presence in Morocco will provide us with a tremendous opportunity to expand our dedicated climate services to a much larger geographic area," according to Brian Bonar, Dalrada CEO and Founder. He continued, "By establishing Dalrada Technologies Morocco, were able to deliver advanced carbon-reducing technology and support to new areas that really need it."

Dalrada Technologies Morocco will help accelerate Dalradas continued global efforts in offering leading-edge climate technology products and services that optimize the energy resources of its clients while minimizing environmental impact and reducing energy costs. To learn more about Dalrada Technologies Morocco and Dalradas vision of energy sustainability, visit www.dalradaclimatetech.com.

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About Dalrada Technologies Morocco

Dalrada Technologies Morocco is a wholly-owned technology subsidiary of Dalrada Corporation that brings clean energy and climate technology to Africa and the Middle East through advanced service solutions.

The company is committed to providing expert customer service and support by designing and implementing strategies and projects, and believes in transparency and creating true solutions, analyzing and studying client needs, and understanding and collaborating with clients to reach shared goals.

Dalrada Technologies Morocco understands the environmental challenges we face today and works with modern technology solutions that fight climate change and reduce CO 2 emissions. The company offers a dedicated suite of energy-efficient products and services and constantly creates new solutions for renewable energies, guaranteeing energy performance and cost savings through continuous optimization. For more information, please visit www.dalradaclimatetech.com.

About Dalrada Corporation

Dalrada Financial Corporation (Dalrada) is a progressive organization that drives innovation to impact people, businesses, and the planet positively. The company owns and operates a global group of climate technology, clean energy, and precision manufacturing companies, each with a clearly-defined mandate to identify, address, and deliver solutions to unique economic, environmental, and efficiency problems facing public, government, and private sector organizations. Dalrada meets challenges by developing advanced technologies, products, and services with a clear and quantifiable value, generating a significant return on investment for its clients.

Dalrada companies are on the leading edge of developing and applying innovative eco-sensitive next-generation science, engineering, and technology, serving a broad range of industries. The companys products and services significantly reduce energy costs and remove barriers for its clients, creating a more sustainable and prosperous future for us all.

Dalradas subsidiaries and strategic partners operate in the United States, the United Kingdom, Malaysia, India, Spain, and Morocco, and are centrally managed from the companys San Diego, California headquarters.

For more information, please visit www.dalrada.com, and follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter.

Disclaimer

Statements in this press release that are not historical facts, the statements are forward-looking, including statements regarding future revenues and sales projections, plans for future financing, the ability to meet operational milestones, marketing arrangements and plans, and shipments to and regulatory approvals in international markets. Such statements reflect management's current views, are based on certain assumptions, and involve risks and uncertainties. Actual results, events, or performance may differ materially from the above forward-looking statements due to a number of important factors and will be dependent upon a variety of factors, including, but not limited to, our ability to obtain additional financing that will allow us to continue our current and future operations and whether demand for our products and services in domestic and international markets will continue to expand. The Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update these forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances that occur after the date hereof or to reflect any change in the Company's expectations with regard to these forward-looking statements or the occurrence of unanticipated events. Factors that may impact the Company's success are more fully disclosed in the Company's most recent public filings with the US Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC"), including its annual report on Form 10-K.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230829896753/en/

Contacts

Michael Eslinger

meslinger@dalrada.com

MARKET AWARENESS

Stockwatchindex, LLC

442-287-8059

info@stockwatchindex.com
Quantexa

LONDON and NEW YORK, Aug. 29, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Today, Quantexa, a global leader in Decision Intelligence (DI) solutions for the public and private sectors, announced that it has won the 2023 Google Clouds Industry Solution Technology Partner of the Year award for Line of Business Processes. The award comes after its Decision Intelligence Platform and solutions were made available on Google Cloud Marketplace in April 2023 .



Quantexa is recognized for the strength of its line of business solutions. Their Line of Business Processes removes traditional manual data capture by connecting internal and external data and creating an accurate single view of customers. Quantexas advanced Line of Businesses processes capabilities were awarded in acknowledgement of the technologies ability to monitor KYC profiles and automate the detection and prioritization of real risk and opportunities.

Key capabilities included in Quantexas AI-enabled KYC solution are onboarding, remediation, enhanced due diligence (EDD), and perpetual KYC (pKYC). By deploying the solution, Google Cloud customers can focus their risk management efforts and facilitate trust with customers, leading to increased revenue generation. Plus, by gaining a true understanding of those they are doing business with joint customers will see benefits across the banking value chain, including improved financial crime, AML, and fraud detection.



Making the Quantexa Decision Intelligence Platform available via Google Cloud has given organizations in banking, insurance, telecommunications, and government agencies the ability to connect their data across siloed systems, making it simple for global enterprise customers to trust their data and augment and automate decision-making to protect, optimize, and grow their business.

Dan Higgins, Chief Product Officer at Quantexa: Together with Google Cloud, weve been able to bring cutting-edge compliance and risk technology solutions to the Cloud and give our joint customers flexible deployment options. This partnership is enabling IT and infrastructure teams to be more agile and support line-of-business leaders working in an ever-evolving risk landscape. The recognition by Google Cloud further highlights our achievements in enabling organizations to leverage Decision Intelligence to master customer and risk management.

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Google Clouds partner awards recognize the significant impact and customer success that our partners have driven over the past year, said Kevin Ichhpurani, Corporate Vice President, Global Ecosystem and Channels at Google Cloud. We're delighted to recognize Quantexa as a 2023 Google Cloud Partner Award winner and look forward to a continued strong partnership in support of our mutual customers.

To learn more about how your organization can benefit from Quantexas KYC solution and other Decision Intelligence Platform capabilities, please visit: www.quantexa.com

Notes To Editors:

The award win comes ahead of Quantexas Global Insurance Roadshow with Accenture, Google Cloud and Quantexa in APAC, EMEA & North America. The events will educate insurers on how to leverage AI to create hyper-personalized customer experiences and will be hosted in the following cities and dates:



Singapore: September 12th

Sydney: September 14 th

London: October 24 th

New York City: November 14th

Chicago: November 16th

About Quantexa

Quantexa is a global data and analytics software company pioneering Decision Intelligence that empowers organisations to make trusted operational decisions by making data meaningful. Using the latest advancements in big data and AI, Quantexas Decision Intelligence platform uncovers hidden risk and new opportunities by providing a contextual, connected view of internal and external data in a single place. It solves major challenges across data management, KYC, customer intelligence, financial crime, risk, fraud, and security, throughout the customer lifecycle.



The Quantexa Decision Intelligence Platform enhances operational performance with over 90% more accuracy and 60 times faster analytical model resolution than traditional approaches. Founded in 2016, Quantexa now has more than 650 employees and thousands of users working with billions of transactions and data points across the world. The company has offices in London, New York, Boston, Toronto, Malaga, Brussels, Amsterdam, Dublin, Luxemburg, Singapore, Melbourne, Sydney, and Dubai. For more information, please visit www.quantexa.com or follow us on LinkedIn .



Media Enquiries

C: Stephanie Crisp, Associate Director and Media Strategist, Fight or Flight

E: quantexa@fightorflight.com



C: Adam Jaffe, SVP of Corporate Marketing

T: +1 609 502 6889

E: adamjaffe@quantexa.com




The first Radisson RED hotel in Eastern Europe has arrived in Tbilisi, Georgia. Situated in a 100-year-old former post office building on the iconic Davit Aghmashenebeli Avenue, Radisson RED Tbilisi blends culture, history, and contemporary design.

The new Radisson RED Tbilisis magnificent home, a historic post office building, dates back to 1920s and features an imposing facade with wrought iron balconies and modern, black, Crittal-like windows. It is ideally located close to the many important cultural institutions in the city.

It offers guests a unique opportunity to experience the citys rich history, art, and gastronomy within the hotel itself, and its surrounding area.

The 4-storey hotel includes 111 rooms spanning from standard to junior suites, all featuring Radisson RED's signature design focused on cutting-edge solutions.

In line with the Radisson RED brands focus on the local creative and cultural scene, guests can find a series of paintings by a local artist inspired by historic Tbilisi throughout the hotel, as well as traditional Georgian Shushabandi balconies and a courtyard inspired by the unique Tbilisi design.

Radisson RED Tbilisi also has three fully equipped meeting rooms for up to 70 people, perfect for events and private gatherings, as well as a courtyard that accommodates up to 500 guests.

The hotel is also a culinary destination thanks to its modern and cozy Posta Restaurant & Bar which fuses Georgian, Asian, and international flavors, and serves as a social hub with unique style, dynamic atmosphere, and friendly service.

Antoine Moubarak, Regional Director Turkey, Georgia, Azerbaijan & Eastern Europe, Radisson Hotel Group, says: The Radisson RED brand and Tbilisi are a perfect fit. The hotel is located on one of the main avenues in the city which has a vibrant atmosphere and energy. The historic former post office building has undergone an incredible renovation to combine original and modern vibes to the spot in the lead up to the opening of Radisson RED Tbilisi.

Husnu Tayanc, Curator (also known as General Manager), Radisson RED Tbilisi, says When I first saw the plans for Radisson RED Tbilisi, I fell in love with the buildings history and the opportunity to create a lifestyle experience for guests to feel the energy and vibrant atmosphere in Tbilisi. I would like to thank the investment group, Telegraph Company, namely Kniaz Desani, for bringing up this unique project to Tbilisi. The renovation project managed to maintain the historical elements and add modern ones, while also creating opportunity for the local employment. - TradeArabia News Service
(Bloomberg) -- As the planet continues to warm, so grows the list of countries impacted by wildfires. Turkey, Greece and Spain have all dealt with blazes this year, and this months wildfire in Hawaii killed at least 115 and razed the town of Lahaina. Canada is in the throes of a historic wildfire season, with more than 15 million hectares burned. Officials there are scrutinizing the limits of traditional firefighting tactics. In Europe, the fastest-warming continent due to climate change, firefighters are exploring new ways to battle monster blazes. Emergency and disaster management crews are deploying drones that can detect fires earlier and are even reviving traditional practices such as using sheep and goats to graze the grass.

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Here are some of the more innovative wildfire solutions.

Drones

Drones are becoming ubiquitous on the front line.

Domingos Xavier Viegas, a professor at the Coimbra University in Portugal who specializes in wildland fire behavior, says departments across Europe are using drone technology to map vegetation, identify high-risk areas, track wildfires, collect data and deliver last-mile water deposits during wildfires. Larger drones, some of them amphibious, are also being developed to act as aerial tankers or hose bearers. These firefighting robots can spray water and fire-retardant chemicals over longer distances and larger areas.

This can also save the lives of firefighters who otherwise have to get so close to the fires, says Kenneth Geipel, founder of Danish drone company Robotto Co. Geipel started Robotto in 2019 after seeing the devastation left by record wildfires in Sweden, Greece and California a year earlier. He felt firefighters lacked the data needed to map and tackle blazes at the earliest stages.

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While satellite imagery comes with delays, drones can in real time identify smoke or heat signatures, warn fire control authorities and calculate the position, size and intensity of a blaze, Geipel says.

Artificial intelligence

All of this new information requires more data-processing. Drone sensors capture more data than is humanly possible to process in real time without using AI tools, Geipel says.

In 2022, the World Economic Forum launched an AI and machine learning initiative called FireAId. The pilot project, started in Turkey in the wake of the countrys worst-ever wildfires in 2021, showed these tools can reduce response time and risk to firefighters.

3D training

Training regimens for firefighters are also getting more high-tech and more collaborative as departments in different countries compare best practices.

In Catalonia, the Pau Costa Foundation has created a three-dimensional system that allows trainees and fire teams to run through emergency wildfire scenarios. This so-called digital sandbox helps students to visualize the behavior of a forest fire and practice fire-management strategies, preparation that can be particularly helpful for firefighters in northern European countries.

Its something that major cosmopolitan cities like London had never experienced before, says Sami Goldbrom, a group commander at the London Fire Brigade (LFB). But it looks likely that were going to be experiencing them for the foreseeable future.

England saw its worst wildfire season last year: July 19, 2022, was LFBs busiest day since World War II. The LFB has since set up training connections with Australia, Greece and Spain.

Vegetation-clearing robots

The best way to tackle wildfires is to prevent them in the first place. Thats why selective culling of trees and smaller plants is an important aspect of reducing wildfire risk.

Enter vegetation-clearing robots, which can remove potential wildfire fodder. Such devices are being developed and will work alongside drones, Viegas says. The drones map out the high-risk areas from above, and the mechanical foot soldiers weed out vegetation in those patches.

Fire Flocks

Until vegetation-clearing robots become more commercially viable, some fire-management bodies are relying on an age-old pastoral technique: inviting sheep and goats to do the same job.

In Catalonia, so-called Fire Flocks  sheep or goats that graze on forest floors to clean up vegetation  are making a comeback. A project to revive this tradition was initiated in 2016, starting with a small pilot of just 48 hectares in the Baix Emporda region of Catalonia. By 2022, it had expanded to 651 hectares.

Catalonia is one of the few places on the planet where fire-prevention measures have reversed an increase in blazes, according to Marc Castellnou, a wildland fire incident commander and analyst with the Catalan Fire Service. During the 1990s, about 13,500 hectares burned in wildfires every year  roughly 1% of the regions forests, he says. Since then it has fallen to between 1,200 and 1,500 hectares each year, on average.

But even the best mitigation strategies dont negate the urgency of curbing greenhouse gas emissions to prevent fire risk from getting even worse. If a fire has a burning power of more than 10,000 kilowatts per square meter, it cant be extinguished no matter how many resources we put in, Castellnou says. Some of Europes wildfires in recent years have hit six times that intensity.

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Key Insights

The projected fair value for Kumpulan Perangsang Selangor Berhad is RM0.83 based on 2 Stage Free Cash Flow to Equity

With RM0.71 share price, Kumpulan Perangsang Selangor Berhad appears to be trading close to its estimated fair value

Analyst price target for KPS is RM0.62 which is 25% below our fair value estimate

In this article we are going to estimate the intrinsic value of Kumpulan Perangsang Selangor Berhad (KLSE:KPS) by taking the expected future cash flows and discounting them to today's value. We will use the Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) model on this occasion. It may sound complicated, but actually it is quite simple!

Companies can be valued in a lot of ways, so we would point out that a DCF is not perfect for every situation. For those who are keen learners of equity analysis, the Simply Wall St analysis model here may be something of interest to you.

View our latest analysis for Kumpulan Perangsang Selangor Berhad

The Method

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. Seeing as no analyst estimates of free cash flow are available to us, we have extrapolate the previous free cash flow (FCF) from the company's last reported value. We assume companies with shrinking free cash flow will slow their rate of shrinkage, and that companies with growing free cash flow will see their growth rate slow, over this period. We do this to reflect that growth tends to slow more in the early years than it does in later years.

A DCF is all about the idea that a dollar in the future is less valuable than a dollar today, so we discount the value of these future cash flows to their estimated value in today's dollars:

10-year free cash flow (FCF) estimate

2024 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 2031 2032 2033 Levered FCF (MYR, Millions) RM87.1m RM71.9m RM63.8m RM59.5m RM57.3m RM56.5m RM56.5m RM57.1m RM58.1m RM59.5m Growth Rate Estimate Source Est @ -26.49% Est @ -17.48% Est @ -11.17% Est @ -6.75% Est @ -3.66% Est @ -1.50% Est @ 0.02% Est @ 1.08% Est @ 1.82% Est @ 2.34% Present Value (MYR, Millions) Discounted @ 16% RM75.4 RM53.8 RM41.4 RM33.4 RM27.8 RM23.7 RM20.5 RM18.0 RM15.8 RM14.0

("Est" = FCF growth rate estimated by Simply Wall St)

Present Value of 10-year Cash Flow (PVCF) = RM324m

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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 3.6%. We discount the terminal cash flows to today's value at a cost of equity of 16%.

Terminal Value (TV)= FCF 2033  (1 + g)  (r  g) = RM59m (1 + 3.6%)  (16% 3.6%) = RM514m

Present Value of Terminal Value (PVTV)= TV / (1 + r)10= RM514m ( 1 + 16%)10= RM121m

The total value, or equity value, is then the sum of the present value of the future cash flows, which in this case is RM445m. In the final step we divide the equity value by the number of shares outstanding. Compared to the current share price of RM0.7, the company appears about fair value at a 14% 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

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 Kumpulan Perangsang Selangor 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 16%, which is based on a levered beta of 1.758. 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 Kumpulan Perangsang Selangor Berhad

Strength

Earnings growth over the past year exceeded the industry.

Debt is well covered by cash flow.

Dividends are covered by earnings and cash flows.

Dividend is in the top 25% of dividend payers in the market.

Weakness

Earnings growth over the past year is below its 5-year average.

Interest payments on debt are not well covered.

Opportunity

Current share price is below our estimate of fair value.

Threat

Annual earnings are forecast to decline for the next 2 years.

Next Steps:

Whilst important, the DCF calculation ideally won't be the sole piece of analysis you scrutinize for a company. DCF models are not the be-all and end-all of investment valuation. 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 Kumpulan Perangsang Selangor Berhad, there are three further items you should explore:

Risks: Every company has them, and we've spotted 4 warning signs for Kumpulan Perangsang Selangor Berhad (of which 1 is concerning!) you should know about. Future Earnings: How does KPS'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 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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European Data Center Market

European Data Center Market

Dublin, Aug. 29, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Europe Data Center Market Landscape 2023-2028" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.



The Europe data center market is expected to reach a value of $55.45 billion by 2028 from $39.9 billion in 2022, growing at a CAGR of 5.64%

In the ever-evolving landscape of digital infrastructure, the Europe data center market stands as a testament to the power of strategic investments. The resolute drive towards technological advancement has propelled major countries including the U.K., Germany, France, Sweden, Denmark, and Poland, among others, to steer the trajectory of this dynamic market.

A remarkable phenomenon unfolds as locations like Italy, Norway, and Spain emerge as vibrant epicenters of growth within the region, witnessing a surge in investments aimed at fortifying data center capabilities. This surge is not confined merely to a geographical shift; it resonates deeply within the IT infrastructure segment, where stalwarts like Arista Networks, Atos, Cisco Systems, and Dell Technologies have played pivotal roles in driving the market's expansion.

Concurrently, a robust ecosystem flourishes, marked by the presence of global support infrastructure providers, including ABB, Caterpillar, Condair, Alfa Laval, Siemens, and Delta Electronics. Their collective contributions fuel a heightened sense of competitiveness, shaping the very essence of this thriving industry.

KEY TRENDS

Growing Deployment of 5G Services Will Increase Edge Data Center Demand

The growing 5G connectivity is increasing data generation and the need to construct more edge data centers. The demand is also growing in tier II and tier III cities, where constructing a large data center is impossible or is located farther from any established data center. The evidence of growing 5G deployments in countries across the European regions is mentioned below:

VueNow InfoTech, an Indian data center firm, has announced its plan to build six edge data center facilities in Bulgaria, connected to a data center in Plovdiv Tech Park.

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Growing Adoption of Innovative IT Infrastructure Will Drive the Demand for Advanced Technologies in the IT Infrastructure Market

IT infrastructure in the Europe industry has changed over the last few years, with the increased construction of self-built data centers by hyperscale operators and expansions and new projects by colocation operators.

Some IT infrastructure trends witnessed in the industry are the adoption of NVMe storage, the increase in the adoption of 200/400 GbE ports, ARM-based architecture, server virtualization, and the adoption of converged and hyper-converged infrastructure.

SEGMENTATION INSIGHTS

Regarding power infrastructure, UPS systems were the highest contributors to power market investment. Among generators, the adoption of systems with a capacity of over 2 MW is higher due to the construction of large data center facilities. At present, most data centers.

In terms of cooling systems, free cooling techniques have grown significantly over the last few years across regions with favorable climatic conditions that can use evaporative/adiabatic coolers for facility cooling purposes. The power consumed by cooling systems plays a vital role in achieving very low PUE.

Cloud, big data, and IoT continue raising demand for data centers and IT infrastructure. The Europe data center market for IT infrastructure is thriving due to investments in hyperscale data centers. Enterprises are adopting infrastructure configured or built to suit application workloads.

Key Attributes:

Report Attribute Details No. of Pages 165 Forecast Period 2022 - 2028 Estimated Market Value (USD) in 2022 $39.9 Billion Forecasted Market Value (USD) by 2028 $55.45 Billion Compound Annual Growth Rate 5.6% Regions Covered Europe

VENDOR LANDSCAPE

Prominent Support Infrastructure Providers

Arista Networks

Atos

Broadcom

Cisco Systems

Dell Technologies

Extreme Networks

Fujitsu

Hewlett Packard Enterprise

Hitachi Vantara

Huawei Technologies

IBM

Inspur

Juniper Networks

Lenovo

MiTAC Holdings

NEC

NetApp

Pure Storage

Quanta Cloud Technology

Super Micro Computer

Wiwynn

Prominent Support Infrastructure Providers

3M

ABB

Airedale International Air Conditioning

Aermec

Alfa Laval

Aksa Power Generation

Carrier

Caterpillar

Condair

Climaveneta

Cummins

D'HONDT THERMAL SOLUTIONS

Daikin Applied

Delta Electronics

Eaton

ebm-papst

EMICON INNOVATION AND COMFORT

Enrogen

FlaktGroup

Grundfos

Guntner

GESAB

HiRef

HITEC Power Protection

Honeywell International

Johnson Controls

KOHLER-SDMO

KyotoCooling

Legrand

Mitsubishi Electric

Munters

NetNordic

Nlyte Software (Carrier Global Corporation)

Perkins Engines

Piller Power Systems

Riello Elettronica (Riello UPS)

Rittal

Rolls-Royce

Schneider Electric

Siemens

Socomec

STULZ

Trane (Ingersoll Rand)

Vertiv

ZIEHL-ABEGG

Prominent Construction Contractors

AECOM

Altron

AODC

AEON Engineering

APL Data Center

ARC:MC

Ariatta

ARSMAGNA

Artelia

Arup

Aurora Group

Atkins

Basler & Hofmann

BENTHEM CROUWEL ARCHITECTS

Bouygues Construction

Callaghan Engineering

Cap Ingelec

Caverion

Coromatic

Collen

COWI

DataDome

Deerns

Designer Group

Dipl.-Ing. H. C. Hollige

Dornan

Etop

DPR Construction

Eiffage

EYP MCF

Fluor Corporation

Ferrovial

Free Technologies Engineering

Future-tech

Granlund Group

GreenMDC

Gottlieb Paludan Architects

Haka Moscow

ICT Facilities

IDOM

IMOS

ISG

JCA Engineering

JERLAURE

Kirby Group Engineering

KKCG Group

Linesight

LPI Group

M+W Group (EXYTE)

Mace

Mercury

Metnor Construction

MT Hojgaard

Nicholas Webb Architects (NWA)

NORMA Engineering

Oakmont Construction

PM Group

PORR Group

PQC

Quark

Ramboll Group

RED

Reid Brewin Architects

Royal HaskoningDHV

Skanska

SPIE UK

Starching

STO Building Group

STRABAG

STS Group

Sweco

TECHKO

Tetra Tech

TPF Ingenierie

TTSP

Turner & Townsend

Warbud

Winthrop Engineering and Contracting

YIT

ZAUNERGROUP

Prominent Data Center Investors

3data

3S Group

Amazon Web Services

Artnet

Atman

Apple

Aruba

AtlasEdge

AQ Compute

atNorth

Bahnhof

Beyond.pl

China Mobile

Colt Data Centre Services (COLT DCS)

CyrusOne

DATA4

DigiPlex (IPI Partners)

Digital Realty

Echelon Data Centres

EcoDataCenter

EdgeConneX

Equinix

Euclyde Data Centers

Facebook (Meta)

Global Switch

Google

Green Mountain

Hyperco

Iron Mountain

IXcellerate

KDDI

Liberty Global

Magenta Telekom

Microsoft

MTS

Nautilus Data Technologies

NDC-GARBE Data Centers Europe

Neterra

Netia

NTT Global Data Centers

Orange Business Services

Proximity Data Centres

Pure Data Centres

Rostelecom Data Centers

Stadtwerke Feldkirch

T-Mobile

T5 Data Centers

Telecom Italia Sparkle

Vantage Data Centers

Verne Global

Virtus Data centers (ST Telemedia Global Data Centres)

VK Cloud Solutions

Yandex

Yondr

New Entrants

ClusterPower

Global Technical Realty

Stratus DC Management

SCOPE OF THE REPORT

Segmentation by Facility Type

Hyperscale Data Centers

Colocation Data Centers

Enterprise Data Centers

Segmentation by Infrastructure

IT Infrastructure

Electrical Infrastructure

Mechanical Infrastructure

General Construction

Segmentation by IT Infrastructure

Server Infrastructure

Storage Infrastructure

Network Infrastructure

Segmentation by Electrical Infrastructure

UPS Systems

Generators

Transfer Switches & Switchgear

Power Distribution Units

Other Electrical Infrastructure

Segmentation by Mechanical Infrastructure

Cooling Systems

Racks

Other Mechanical Infrastructure

Segmentation by Cooling Systems

CRAC & CRAH Units

Chiller Units

Cooling Towers, Condensers, and Dry Coolers

Economizers & Evaporative Coolers

Other Cooling Units

Segmentation by Cooling Techniques

Air-based Cooling Technique

Liquid-based Cooling Technique

Segmentation by General Construction

Core & Shell Development

Installation & Commissioning Services

Engineering & Building Design

Physical Security

Fire Detection & Suppression

DCIM/BMS Solutions

Segmentation by Tier Standard

Tier I & II

Tier III

Tier IV

Segmentation by Geography

Western Europe

The U.K.

Germany

France

Netherlands

Ireland

Italy

Spain

Switzerland

Belgium

Portugal

Other Western European Countries

Nordics

Denmark

Sweden

Norway

Finland & Iceland

Central and Eastern European

Russia

Poland

Austria

Czech Republic

Other Central & Eastern European Countries

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/jqezu7

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A new Fareway store at 16035 Hickman Road in Clive. Fareway has built a strong presence in the Des Moines metro even before announcing plans to move its headqaurters there.[

Fareway's move to the Des Moines metro follows the lead of other Iowa companies that were established in rural areas and eventually moved their headquarters to larger cities.

The 'Hometown of Hy-Vee'

The closest parallel is Fareway's larger competitor, Hy-Vee. Co-founders Charles Hyde and David Vredenburg launched the chain in 1938, incorporating 15 Iowa and Missouri stores into a single company. The company operated its first corporate office, warehouse, meat plant and bakery in the southern Iowa town of Lamoni, just 4 miles from the Missouri border.

In 1945, Hy-Vee moved its corporate offices to Chariton, still in southern Iowa. Gradually over the next three years Hy-Vee closed all of its Lamoni subsidiaries.

It began expanding into the Des Moines metro in 1959 with the acquisition of a store in Johnston, and in 1993 announced it would move its headquarters to West Des Moines. Hy-Vee employed 1,100 people in Chariton at the time  900 at a distribution center and 200 in corporate jobs.

In July: David Letterman surprises shoppers by bagging groceries at Iowa Hy-Vee supermarket

The corporate offices relocated to the new 10,000-square-foot headquarters in 1995. Chariton's leaders feared the distribution center would close, as well, but it remains in operation.

It was nevertheless a blow to the city of 5,000.

"It's like a grieving process, like losing one of your own," Sharon Kline, then Chariton Chamber and Development Corp. executive director, told the Des Moines Register in 1993.

"It wasn't just that we were upset at the loss of people," then-Chariton City Council member Mary Stierwalt said in 1995. "One of the things was the loss of pride of saying we're the hometown of Hy-Vee."

More: Fareway moving headquarters from Boone to Johnston after 85 years

For Hy-Vee, however, the move helped propel its transition from being a small-town Iowa chain into a modern urban conglomerate, with massive stores where customers could drop off their dry cleaning, buy concert tickets and find a wide array of foods and other merchandise. By 1995 the chain, already Iowa's largest private employer, was emerging as a sizable player in the Midwest grocery market, and continues to expand.

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Today, Hy-Vee has $12 billion in revenue and more than 93,000 employees working on everything from wine sales to pharmaceutical technology. In 2022, Forbes ranked it as the 35th largest privately held company in the U.S.

Carrie Underwood performs hits "Blown Away," "Cowboy Casanova" and "Good Girl" at the Iowa Speedway for the Hy-Vee IndyCar Race Weekend July 22.

Fareway does not want to be Hy-Vee, CEO Reynolds Cramer has said repeatedly. It is still smaller than Hy-Vee was in 1995. Still, there are similarities, as the chain aims to expand in places like metro Kansas City and has established a strong presence in Iowa's largest metro areas, including Des Moines.

And just as Hy-Vee did not abandon Chariton as it left its former headquarters home, Fareway plans to invest in its Boone warehouse, which it extensively refurbished a little over a decade ago.

"I think the No. 1 reason you move is not about a building or necessarily location. Its about a strategy and a synergy within that building," Cramer said. "I think were really dialed in right now. Thats the exact moment where you can get yourself in trouble is when you think everything is going great.

"This is a chance to realize where were at, come together and stay focused on the future and not lose sight of who we are." he added. "The difference between Fareway and other chains out there is that we know who we are. We understand who our customer is, and what they want. And were not in it for selling treadmills and shoes and tires and things that have nothing to do with the grocery business."

Richard Beckwith, left, former chief executive officer of Fareway, and Fred Greiner, former president and chief operating officer of Fareway, in the company's Boone warehouse. The facility will remain there as the company moves its headquarters to the Des Moines metro.

Other companies that have made the move

Kum & Go was founded in 1959 as Hampton Oil in the northeast Iowa town of Hampton. In 1988, chain owner Krause Gentle Co. moved its headquarters to West Des Moines. Now the Krause Group, it moved into its current headquarters, a Renzo Piano-designed building overlooking the Pappajohn Sculpture Park in downtown Des Moines, in 2018. A sale to the Salt Lake City-based Maverik convenience stores was completed Tuesday.

More: Kyle Krause seeks more public funding for Des Moines soccer stadium as costs increase

Landus Cooperative, Iowa's largest agricultural co-op, moved its headquarters from Ames to downtown Des Moines in February 2022.

Motorhome manufacturer Winnebago in December 2021 moved its headquarters from Forest City to Eden Prairie, Minnesota, in the south Minneapolis suburbs. CEO Michael J. Happe, former head of the Toro lawn equipment company in nearby Bloomington, had maintained his offices since taking the helm at Winnebago in 2016.

The company retains its manufacturing facilities in northern Iowa, where it employs about 2,100 people.

Farm supply store chain Bomgaars started in 1931 when founder William Bomgaars sold merchandise out of his Ford Model A in Middleburg, an unincorporated town in Sioux County. In 1944 Bomgaars opened his first store in Sioux City and moved the company's headquarters there, where it remains.

More: Iowa-based Bomgaars becomes No. 2 U.S. farm retailer with acquisition of 73 stores

Still some big companies headquartered in Iowa's small towns

Even as some Iowa companies have moved to larger cities, others remain where they put down their roots. Pella Windows & Doors, founded in 1925, remains in its namesake town, where it employs about 2,400 people. Agriculture and construction heavy equipment maker Vermeer Corp. also remains in Pella, where it was founded in 1948, and employs about 3,200 people.

Another agricultural equipment maker, Kinze Manufacturing, founded in Ladora in 1965 by Jon Kinzenbaw, remains in nearby Williamsburg, employing 800.

Sukup Manufacturing Co. in Sheffield.

Sukup Manufacturing continues to be based in Sheffield, where it was founded in 1962. With 600 workers, the maker of iconic grain bins is one of north central Iowa's largest employers.

Pizza buffet chain Pizza Ranch also remains true to its rural roots. Founded in 1981 in Hull, it's based in Orange City, where it opened its second restaurant in 1983. Today, it has about 210 locations in 14 states.

One company goes the other way

Financial research and asset management giant Cambridge Investment Research is headquartered in Fairfield, where Cambridge founder Eric Schwartz moved it from Washington D.C., in 1992. Cambridge has $1.5 billion in annual revenue, manages $155.8 billion in assets and has nearly 900 employees, 541 of them in Fairfield.

It has steadily expanded from a small office on the town square of the city of less than 10,000, building a new office in 2005 and another building in 2009, and opening an office in Phoenix, as well.

The company acknowledges that "being in a relatively small town does mean we have to be creative with our hiring practices." But it says it has addressed that challenge with a "very robust" summer internship program, involvement with the local community college and aggressive recruitment, including luring Nick Graham, its executive vice president and chief technology officer, from Colorado in 2017.

"The family-like culture and values we were founded on  coupled with professional development opportunities as well as competitive salary and benefits packages  make associates feel supported in their roles while attracting new ones to the firm," CEO Amy Webber said in an email.

Philip Joens covers retail, real estate and RAGBRAI for the Des Moines Register. He can be reached at 515-284-8184, pjoens@registermedia.com or on Twitter @Philip_Joens.

This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: Fareway latest of several Iowa companies moving to larger cities
Fisker Inc. FSR announced its launch in three European countries: Belgium, the Netherlands and Switzerland. Customers of three new markets can now visit country-specific websites to reserve and order a Fisker Ocean.



The deliveries for newly added markets are planned to start at the end of September. Residents of all three countries will enjoy the same direct-sales model as inhabitants in other European markets. Benefits of comprehensive Fisker service and sales support will also be available for these new launches. The automaker plans to implement its existing European strategy in new markets, and establish both retail locations and delivery and service centers in proximity to major cities.



Fiskers first vehicle is now being delivered in Europe and the United States. The vehicles that are being delivered and can be reserved include the Fisker PEAR with a base price of $29,900 and the Fisker Ronin with a base price of $385,000. Prices of vehicles for European markets will be released later in 2023.



The automaker released additional details on its Fisker Ocean Force E, the off-road package for Fisker Ocean all-electric sport utility vehicle.



Per Henrik Fisker, Chairman and CEO of Fisker, Force E is companys effort to bring zero-emissions to the off-roading world and help people get over negatives associated with the internal combustion vehicles that have dominated the segment for decades.



Force E is designed to maximize Fisker Oceans outstanding torque, power and best-in-class range for sustainable off-roading adventure. Force E will be available at vehicle purchase and as a post-purchase add-on package. Initially it will be available for all-wheel drive Fisker Ocean One and Extreme trims, and available for Ultra trim later.



Force E package includes 33-inch tires on 20-inch wheels, higher ground clearance, specialized dampers, front and rear skid plates, and an underbody plate. It also contains a special off-road mode, delivering off-road-performance powertrain settings, that will be delivered via over-the air update. An optional roof basket to improve the package will be available separately.



The package is scheduled to be available in first-quarter 2024 and the pricing will be announced on companys website when reservations open.

Story continues

Zacks Rank & Key Picks

FSR currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold).



Some better-ranked players in the auto space include Oshkosh Corporation OSK, Allison Transmission Holdings, Inc. ALSN and Gentex Corporation GNTX, each sporting a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy). You can see the complete list of todays Zacks #1 Rank stocks here.



The Zacks Consensus Estimate for OSKs 2023 sales and earnings implies year-over-year growth of 15% and 126.9%, respectively. The EPS estimate for 2023 and 2024 has moved north by $1.74 and $1.55, respectively, in the past 30 days.



The Zacks Consensus Estimate for ALSNs 2023 sales and earnings suggests year-over-year increases of 9.4% and 25.3%, respectively. The EPS estimate for 2023 and 2024 has moved up by 34 cents and 37 cents, respectively, in the past 30 days.



The Zacks Consensus Estimate for GNTXs 2023 sales and earnings indicates year-over-year rises of 17.3% and 29.4%, respectively. The EPS estimate for 2023 and 2024 has moved up by 7 cents and 9 cents, respectively, in the past 30 days.

Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report

Fisker Inc. (FSR) : Free Stock Analysis Report

Allison Transmission Holdings, Inc. (ALSN) : Free Stock Analysis Report

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(Bloomberg) -- Foxconn Technology Group lost a bid to kick Lordstown Motors Corp. out of bankruptcy, a win for the troubled electric vehicle maker as it attempts to find a new owner for its business.

Most Read from Bloomberg

Judge Mary Walrath on Monday refused to dismiss Lordstowns bankruptcy case. She rejected Foxconns claim that the struggling EV startup improperly sought Chapter 11 protection to gain an unfair edge in a legal dispute between the companies over a deal to make Lordstowns flagship Endurance trucks.

Lordstown said it was running low on cash before it filed bankruptcy in June and facing an exodus of employees and customers after Foxconn said it was prepared to exit a production partnership. Under the circumstances, Judge Walrath said Lordstown had a valid reason for filing bankruptcy and is now pursuing a reasonable strategy for repaying its creditors by attempting to sell the business.

Thomas Lauria, a lawyer representing Lordstown, said the Ohio-based manufacturer is formulating a debt repayment plan and is hopeful that it will find buyers in Chapter 11 for all or parts of its business. Potential buyers have until Sept. 8 to submit bids for the companys assets, according to court documents.

We expect to have one-or-more purchasers, Lauria said.

Besides its dispute with Foxconn, Lordstown said its already used Chapter 11 to try and resolve other costly legal disputes. On Monday, Judge Walrath approved a $40 million settlement of Karma Automotive LLCs allegations that Lordstown lifted designs and technology to develop its Endurance truck.

The bankruptcy is Lordstown Motors Corp., 23-10831, US Bankruptcy Court for the District of Delaware.

Story continues

Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek

2023 Bloomberg L.P.
Increased Speed, Reduced Riding Time, More Comfortable and Steady Ride

HIKONE, Japan, August 29, 2023--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Fujitec Co., Ltd. (TOKYO:6406):

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230827909302/en/

One Raffles Place Replaced Elevators (Photo: Business Wire)

Fujitec Singapore Corpn. Ltd. (Head Office: Bedok South Avenue, Singapore; Managing Director William Wong), a group subsidiary of FUJITEC CO., LTD. (Head Office: Shiga Prefecture, Japan; President and CEO Masayoshi Harada), completed modernization* of 19 elevators in One Raffles Place (formerly OUB Center), Singapore. The new elevators equipped with the latest functions, offer increased speed and new systems to shorten riding time, offering greater comfort and more stability.

*Elevator modernization is the process of improving elevator performance by transforming an old elevator into one equipped with the latest technology.

Please see our document for more information

Fujitec Completes Modernization of Elevators in Singapore's Leading High-Rise Office Building

https://www.fujitec.com/announcement/3226

About Fujitec Singapore

Fujitec Singapore, established in 1972, is Fujitec Groups third overseas subsidiary. The subsidiary established a base of business in South Asia* and has been leading the Fujitec business as a central entity in the region ever since. In September 2022, Fujitec Singapore celebrated its 50th anniversary.

Location Bedok South Avenue, Singapore Established August 23, 1972 Business lines Sales, installation, maintenance, and repair of elevators and escalators Relationship with parent company Consolidated subsidiary Major Projects Housing & Development Board of Singapore "HDB"

Marina One

Mapletree Business City

*Fujitec categorizes Southeast Asia and India as its South Asia business segment.

About Fujitec

Fujitec is a specialist manufacturer of elevators, escalators, and moving walks. Fujitec provides safe, secure, and comfortable moving spaces in 24 countries and regions around the world through an integrated system of research and development, manufacturing, sales, installation, maintenance, and modernization.

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Established : February 9, 1948 Listed market : Prime Market, Tokyo Stock Exchange Official webpage : https://www.fujitec.com/

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230827909302/en/

Contacts

Contact Us

Fujitec Co., Ltd. Press & Public Relations Office

pr@jp.fujitec.com
BRICS expansion marks new starting point for cooperation

09:05, August 29, 2023 By He Yin ( People's Daily

Chinese President Xi Jinping delivers a speech titled "Hand in Hand Toward a Community of Shared Development" at the BRICS-Africa Outreach and BRICS Plus Dialogue in Johannesburg, South Africa, Aug. 24, 2023. (Xinhua/Li Xueren)

Historic moment in BRICS cooperation was witnessed in Johannesburg, South Africa.

At a press conference during the 15th BRICS Summit, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Argentina, Iran and Ethiopia are formally invited to join the BRICS family. The six countries' membership will take effect on Jan. 1, 2024.

This historic expansion reflects the resolution of the BRICS countries to unite and cooperate with other developing nations, marking a new starting point for BRICS cooperation.

Expanding from 5 to 11 members, the BRICS cooperation mechanism has bolstered its global influence. With 3 more Asian members, 2 more African members, and 1 more member in Latin America, the mechanism has increased its global representation.

After expansion, the proportion of the combined population of BRICS countries to the world's total will increase from 42 percent to 47 percent, its economic aggregate from 26 percent to 29 percent, and its total trade in goods from 18 percent to 21 percent. The expanded BRICS carries greater significance.

This historic expansion meets the expectations of the international community and serves the common interests of emerging markets and developing countries.

Right now, changes in the world, in the times and in history are unfolding in ways like never before, bringing human society to a critical juncture.

The rising unilateralism, protectionism, the Cold War mentality, zero-sum game mindset, hegemonism and power politics are threatening world peace and stability. The international community needs positive forces upholding open cooperation, safeguarding peace and stability, promoting development and prosperity, and strengthening mutual learning and exchanges.

Many emerging markets and developing countries have come to what they are today after shaking off the yoke of colonialism, and have a stronger desire to safeguard peaceful development and pursue fairness and justice.

Emerging markets and developing countries have contributed as high as 80 percent of global growth in the past 20 years, and their share in the global GDP has increased from 24 percent 40 years ago to more than 40 percent. They have greater capabilities to safeguard peaceful development and pursue fairness and justice.

BRICS expansion conforms to the trend of the collective rise of emerging markets and developing countries, and will further strengthen the forces for world peace and development.

This historic expansion fully demonstrates BRICS countries' appeal, injecting fresh vitality into the BRICS cooperation mechanism.

Over the past 17 years, the giant ship of BRICS has sailed forward tenaciously against raging torrents and storms. Riding the wind and cleaving the waves, it has embarked on a righteous course of mutual support and win-win cooperation.

Chinese President Xi Jinping poses for a group photo with other leaders attending the BRICS-Africa Outreach and BRICS Plus Dialogue in Johannesburg, South Africa, Aug. 24, 2023. (Xinhua/Li Xueren)

Upholding the spirit of openness, inclusiveness and win-win cooperation, BRICS countries have expanded cooperation in various spheres, making important contributions to world peace and development and gaining wide recognition and support from the international community.

Ahead of the summit this year, over 40 countries had expressed their interest in joining the BRICS mechanism, over 20 of which had formally submitted applications. It fully demonstrated the enthusiasm and desire of emerging markets and developing countries for unity and self-improvement.

With more members across a broader geography, the expanded BRICS family has greater space for cooperation, injecting strong positive energy into the BRICS cooperation at this critical historical juncture.

This historic expansion will further pool BRICS strength and increase the Global South members' representation and voice in global governance.

The BRICS countries have come together to promote peace and development, pursue fairness and justice, advocate mutual benefit and win-win cooperation, and safeguard common interests. They will continue deepening solidarity and cooperation and play a greater role in global governance.

Saudi Arabia said it looks forward to developing this type of cooperation and creating new development and economic opportunities, as well as elevating its relationship with relevant countries to the desired level.

Egypt hopes to coordinate with BRICS members to achieve economic cooperation goals and voice the standpoint of the Global South on shared challenges.

The UAE said it agrees with BRICS leaders' common vision for humanity's future development and looks forward to deepening cooperation with all parties to achieve common prosperity worldwide.

Argentina said joining the BRICS mechanism will provide the country with excellent development opportunities and open a new chapter. Iran called joining BRICS a historic step and Ethiopia called it a great moment.

These voices for solidarity and cooperation will contribute to building a better world. After the expansion, BRICS will be able to make the system of global governance fairer and more equitable.

The BRICS cooperation has immense potential and the future is bright for BRICS countries. The expanded BRICS family will forge stronger BRICS strategic partnership and expand the "BRICS Plus" model, writing new chapters of solidarity and cooperation for development among emerging markets and developing countries.

Together they will work to shape a landscape for peaceful development and contribute strength to building a community with a shared future for mankind.

(Web editor: Chang Sha, Liang Jun)
Bhutan has cut its tourism levy, known as the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF), by half to bolster its tourism sector.

The 50% reduction on its tourism levy ($100 per person, per night, down from $200 per person per night) will come into effect from September 1, 2023 and shall remain in force for four years until August 31, 2027.

The change was made in view of the important role of the tourism sector in generating employment; earning foreign exchange; realising the potential for spillover benefits for ancillary industries; boosting overall economic growth; and funding important environmental, social and infrastructure projects.

The new tourist incentives and measures feature:

1. A fifty per cent (50%) reduction will be granted on the prevailing SDF of $200 for US dollar-paying guests visiting Bhutan. The SDF with the discount will amount to $100 per person per night for US-dollar paying tourists.

2. In addition, a fifty per cent (50%) reduction on the SDF shall be granted on the rates applied to children aged between 6 and 12 for US dollar-paying tourists. The SDF with the discount for children will be $50 per person per night for US-dollar-paying tourists. Children who have not yet turned six years are eligible to visit Bhutan without paying any SDF.

3. The 24 hours SDF waiver for tourists staying in the border towns shall continue.

4. Any guests who have already paid the SDF for their upcoming visit to Bhutan are eligible for refunds on any excess SDF amounts paid, and the amount will be refunded to the original payment account.

5. Duration incentives (4+4, 7+7, 12+18 nights packages) introduced in June 2023 have been revoked.

6. The 50% discount cannot be combined with the SDF waiver for border towns. Visitors wishing to explore border towns before or after the SDF discount must apply for another visa.

7. Indian guests (with an Indian passport or voter ID) pay 1200 Ngultrum or the equivalent in Indian Rupees per person per night. Indian children aged 6 to 12 receive a 50% discount, and those under six are exempt.

8. A visitor with a tourist visa can stay for a maximum of 90 nights from the entry date.

Commenting on the incentives, Dorji Dhradhul, the Director General of the Department of Tourism Bhutan, said: While the global community continues to heal from the impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic, the conflict persisting in Europe, and the challenges related to the cost of living that are impacting important markets for us, we have listened to the voices of our valued guests, as well as our colleagues in the industry and our global travel partners. As a result, we have taken the decision to temporarily lower our Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) with the aim of revitalising our tourism sector.

Bhutan started welcoming foreign tourists in 1974, and guests to Bhutan have always been required to pay a Sustainable Development Fee as part of Bhutans High Value, Low Volume tourism policy. Funds from the SDF go to the government exchequer and are invested in free education and healthcare projects for all Bhutanese. - TradeArabia News Service
Long-established in the Industrial Products industry, General Electric Co (NYSE:GE) has enjoyed a stellar reputation. However, it has recently witnessed a decline of 0.67%, juxtaposed with a three-month change of 10.48%. Fresh insights from the GuruFocus Score Rating hint at potential headwinds. Notably, its diminished rankings in financial strength, growth, and valuation suggest that the company might not live up to its historical performance. Join us as we dive deep into these pivotal metrics to unravel the evolving narrative of General Electric Co.

General Electric Co (GE): A Deep Dive into Its Performance Potential

Understanding the GF Score

The GF Score is a stock performance ranking system developed by GuruFocus using five aspects of valuation, which has been found to be closely correlated to the long-term performances of stocks by backtesting from 2006 to 2021. The stocks with a higher GF Score generally generate higher returns than those with a lower GF Score. Therefore, when picking stocks, investors should invest in companies with high GF Scores. The GF Score ranges from 0 to 100, with 100 as the highest rank.

Based on the above method, GuruFocus assigned General Electric Co the GF Score of 57 out of 100, which signals poor future outperformance potential.

General Electric Co: A Snapshot

General Electric Co, with a market cap of $123.2 billion, was formed through the combination of two companies in 1892, including one with historical ties to American inventor Thomas Edison. Today, GE is a global leader in air travel and in the energy transition. The company is known for its differentiated technology and its massive industrial installed base of equipment sprawled throughout the world. That installed base most notably includes aerospace engines, gas and steam turbines, and onshore and offshore wind turbines. GE earns most of its profits on the service revenue of that equipment, which is generally higher-margin. The company is led by former Danaher alumnus Larry Culp, who is leading a multiyear turnaround of the storied conglomerate based on lean principles.

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General Electric Co (GE): A Deep Dive into Its Performance Potential

Profitability Breakdown

General Electric Co's low Profitability rank can also raise warning signals. General Electric Co's Operating Margin has declined over the past five years ((-49.53%)), as shown by the following data: 2018: 6.97; 2019: 5.71; 2020: 0.54; 2021: 4.96; 2022: 3.52. Additionally, General Electric Co's Gross Margin has also declined over the past five years, as evidenced by the data: 2018: 28.46; 2019: 28.12; 2020: 23.69; 2021: 27.36; 2022: 27.46. This trend underscores the company's struggles to convert its revenue into profits.

Growth Prospects

A lack of significant growth is another area where General Electric Co seems to falter, as evidenced by the company's low Growth rank. The company's revenue has declined by -5.5 per year over the past three years, which underperforms worse than 83.28% of 2667 companies in the Industrial Products industry. Stagnating revenues may pose concerns in a fast-evolving market. Lastly, General Electric Co predictability rank is just one star out of five, adding to investor uncertainty regarding revenue and earnings consistency.

General Electric Co (GE): A Deep Dive into Its Performance Potential

Conclusion

Given the company's financial strength, profitability, and growth metrics, the GuruFocus Score Rating highlights the firm's unparalleled position for potential underperformance. While General Electric Co has a rich history and a significant presence in the Industrial Products industry, its declining profitability and growth ranks signal potential headwinds. Investors should consider these factors when making investment decisions.

GuruFocus Premium members can find more companies with strong GF Scores using the following screener link: GF Score Screen

This article first appeared on GuruFocus.


Company Logo

Global Automotive AfterMarket

Global Automotive AfterMarket

Dublin, Aug. 29, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Automotive Aftermarket Industry Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report By Replacement Part (Tire, Battery, Brake Parts, Filters, And Others), By Distribution Channel, By Service Channel, By Certification, By Region, And Segment Forecasts, 2023 - 2030" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.







The global automotive aftermarket industry is poised for significant growth, with the market projected to reach USD 589.01 billion by 2030 at a CAGR of 4.0% from 2023 to 2030. This growth is attributed to various factors:

Digitalization and Technology: The incorporation of advanced technology in automotive aftermarket component manufacturing and the digitalization of repair and component sales are expected to drive market expansion. Demand for New Components: The increasing popularity of semi-autonomous, electric, hybrid, and autonomous vehicles is likely to boost the demand for new automotive components. Vehicle Penetration: Developing countries like India and Brazil are experiencing increased vehicle penetration due to improvements in lifestyle, which is expected to drive growth in the automobile industry. Emissions Norms and Manufacturing: Stricter emissions regulations and growth in the automotive manufacturing sector are anticipated to drive automotive aftermarket component sales. Third-Party Services and Technology: Third-party services and technology offer new revenue streams and opportunities for market growth. Digital Channels and Social Media: The rise of digital channels and social media is influencing automotive aftermarket sales by providing customers with information, making the purchasing process smoother. Asia-Pacific Growth: The Asia-Pacific region, with improving living standards and high vehicle production, is expected to be the fastest-growing market for the automotive aftermarket. Specialized Repair Centers: The increasing acceptance of gas and hybrid electric cars is leading to the rise of specialized repair centers for specific vehicle types.

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Key Highlights from the Report:

The automotive aftermarket is expected to grow significantly due to an increase in lightweight vehicles and the aging light vehicle fleet. While technological advancements have presented challenges, they have also brought opportunities for growth. Innovative business models and solutions, along with increased investment, are expected to create sustainable growth opportunities. North America's higher technology adoption rate is expected to result in faster adoption of hybrid electric vehicles compared to other regions. The growing proportion of specialized automotive collision repair centers focused on specific vehicle types is expected to drive a change in the aftermarket.

Market Dynamics

Market Drivers:

Advanced technology usage in auto parts fabrication

Surge in consumer and passenger automobile production

Digitalization of automotive repair and maintenance services

Increasing stringency of emission and fuel efficiency regulations and engine downsizing

Market Restraints:

Counterfeiting of auto components

Growing demand for electric vehicles

The report also mentions key companies in the automotive aftermarket industry, including:

3M

Continental AG

COOPER TIRE & RUBBER COMPANY

Delphi Automotive PLC

Denso Corporation

Federal-Mogul Corporation

Magneti Marelli S.p.A.

Robert Bosch GmbH

The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company

ZF Friedrichshafen AG (ZF TRW)

This comprehensive summary provides insights into the growth prospects, market dynamics, and key factors influencing the global automotive aftermarket industry.









Key Attributes:

Report Attribute Details No. of Pages 109 Forecast Period 2023 - 2030 Estimated Market Value (USD) in 2023 $448.24 Billion Forecasted Market Value (USD) by 2030 $589.01 Billion Compound Annual Growth Rate 4.0% Regions Covered Global

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/payxw6

About ResearchAndMarkets.com

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Transparency Market Research

Manufacturers are making major investments in research and development in order to develop cutting-edge solutions that can satisfy the growing market for lipids.

Wilmington, Delaware, United States, Aug. 29, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Transparency Market Research Inc. - The global market for lipids was estimated to be worth US$ 19.4 billion in 2021. The market is anticipated to advance with a 4.3% CAGR from 2022 to 2031 and by 2031, the market is likely to gain US$ 29.9 billion .



The food, cosmetics, and personal care sectors all make substantial use of lipids, which are organic molecules that take the form of oils, fats, and hormones and are insoluble in water. The need for lipid-based medication delivery systems is being driven by the rise in chronic illnesses and disorders linked to lifestyle.

Request for Sample PDF Copy at: https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=S&rep_id=57627

Global Lipids Market: Key Players



Major companies in the lipids market are concentrating on producing them as the need for nutritious lipids rises in developed nations of North America and Europe The presence of major companies has helped to consolidate the global lipids industry. The following companies are well-known participants in the global lipids market:

Archer Daniels Midland Company

Merck Millipore Limited

Stepan Company

NOF Corporation

Abitec Corporation

Avanti Polar Lipids Inc.

Cayman Chemical Company

Cordenpharma International

Chemi S.P.A.

Matreya Llc

Tokyo Chemical Industry Co., Ltd.

Lipoid GmbH.

Developments by the key players in the global market for lipids are:

Market Player Year Key Developments Moderna Inc., 2020 Moderna Inc. renewed a contract with Corden Pharma to acquire a sizable quantity of lipids used in the production of its experimental COVID-19 vaccine in order to address the rising demand for the vaccine. Archer Daniels Midland Company 2018 In order to diversify its product line, the company purchased Eatem Foods Company, a producer of organic savory tastes.

Companies in the lipids sector are building steady income streams by increasing their production capabilities for pharmaceutical lipids.

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Key Findings of the Market Report

Lipids are typically insoluble in water, however, they are readily soluble in alcohols as well as organic solvents.

Lipids are made up of esters and fats with comparable properties.

Energy storage is one of the fundamental qualities of lipid nutrition, which the human body needs for healthy operation.

Transparency Market Research's most recent study projects that the global lipids market will grow due to rising consumer demand for nutritious lipids and the increased commercial potential of lipids.

In 2021, the glycerophospholipid product type category accounted for a significant 81% of the global market.

With a predicted growth rate of about 4.4% over the course of the projection period, it is anticipated to keep its leading market share.

Market Trends for Lipids

Lipids are widely employed in many different applications, including food, pharmaceuticals, and personal care & cosmetics. Significant lifestyle changes have been brought about by increased urbanization in many locations. The personal care and cosmetics business has benefited as a result. Social media and digitization have been extremely important for cosmetics sales.

In 2021, the personal care and cosmetics industry accounted for a significant portionmore than 46%of the overall lipids market. There has been an increase in demand for nutritional lipids generated from plants and other biotechnological sources due to the incorporation of herbal ingredients in green cosmetics and the related health advantages.

Get Exclusive Discount on Lipids Market at: https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=D&rep_id=57627

Lipids Regional Market Outlook



Various reasons are propelling the growth of the lipids market in different regions. These are:

In 2021, Asia Pacific held a significant volume share of 43.7% in the global lipids market. The market in the region is anticipated to develop quickly over the projected period due to the rise popularity for nutraceutical goods and expansion of the pharmaceutical sector.

India is anticipated to soon occupy the lion's share of the lipids market in Asia Pacific owing to the rising need for lipids in the country's nutraceutical industry.

In 2021, from a regional or national perspective, China dominated the lipids market because of the substantial demand for lipids in the country's food and beverage as well as personal care & cosmetics industries.

The Chinese market is anticipated to grow considerably throughout the projected period due largely to the growth in per capita disposable income in the nation.

Global Lipids Market Segmentation



Product Type

Sphingomyelin

Glycerophospholipid

Cholesterol

Monoglycerols

Diacylglycerols

Fatty Acids

Application

Pharmaceuticals

Personal Care & Cosmetics

Food



Region

North America

Europe

Asia Pacific

Middle East & Africa

South America



Place an Order Copy of Lipids Market Report at: https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/checkout.php?rep_id=57627<ype=S

About Transparency Market Research

Transparency Market Research, a global market research company registered at Wilmington, Delaware, United States, provides custom research and consulting services. Our exclusive blend of quantitative forecasting and trends analysis provides forward-looking insights for thousands of decision makers. Our experienced team of Analysts, Researchers, and Consultants use proprietary data sources and various tools & techniques to gather and analyses information.

Our data repository is continuously updated and revised by a team of research experts, so that it always reflects the latest trends and information. With a broad research and analysis capability, Transparency Market Research employs rigorous primary and secondary research techniques in developing distinctive data sets and research material for business reports.

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Nikhil Sawlani

Transparency Market Research Inc.

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Global Military Drones Market

Global Military Drones Market

Dublin, Aug. 29, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Global Military Drones Market 2022-2032: Trend Forecast and Growth Opportunity" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.

The global military drones market is poised for remarkable growth, projected to attain a substantial value of $28.94 billion by 2032, reflecting a robust annual expansion of 8.5% from 2022 to 2032. This meteoric rise is underpinned by an array of factors, including the increasing emphasis on advanced Command, Control, Communications, Computers, Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (C4ISR) capabilities, a surge in military spending, remarkable technological advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) and drone technologies, and the escalating regional conflicts and terrorist activities across the globe. Shipment figures are equally promising, with a projected annual growth rate of 11.7% over the forecast period.

Unveiling Comprehensive Insights

This comprehensive 292-page report presents an in-depth exploration of the entire global military drones market and its diverse sub-segments through a meticulous classification. The report boasts 108 tables and 192 figures, leveraging premium primary and secondary information sources, tapping into insights from industry professionals across the value chain. The report's foundation rests on research spanning 2020-2022, providing forecasts from 2023 to 2032 with 2022 as the base year.

Qualitative Insights: Delving into Market Dynamics

In-depth qualitative analyses dig deep into various aspects, including the market structure, growth drivers, restraints and challenges, emerging product trends, market opportunities, and Porter's Five Forces. These facets collectively paint a comprehensive portrait of the market's dynamics, providing stakeholders with a nuanced understanding.

Balanced Forecasts Amid Global Factors

The report employs an optimistic, balanced, and conservative viewpoint in forecasting the trend and outlook of the global market. Taking into account factors like COVID-19 and the Russia-Ukraine conflict, the balanced projection, considered the most likely scenario, quantifies the global military drones market across an array of classifications, including Offering, Frame, Maximum Takeoff Weight (MTOW), Mode of Operation, Launching Mode, Speed, Class, Application, End User, and Region.

Story continues

Segmented Insights: Unraveling the Complexity

The report dives into multifaceted segmentation, offering insights into various sub-markets, complete with annual revenue ($ mn) and shipment (thousand units) projections for 2022-2032.

Offering: This includes Hardware, Frame, Payloads, Avionics, UAV Navigation Systems, UAV Sensors, UAV Flight Control Systems, UAV Communication Systems, Other Avionics, Propulsion, Turbo Engine, Piston Engine, UAV Batteries, Data Links, Other Systems, Software, Flight Management Software, Data Management Software, Drone Mapping Software, Image Processing Software, Data Analytics Software, and Services.

Frame: This encompasses Fixed Wing Drones, Rotary Blade Drones, and Hybrid Drones.

MTOW: The segmentation includes < 150 Kg, 150-1,200 Kg, and >1,200 Kg.

Mode of Operation: Sub-segments are Remotely Piloted, Optionally Piloted, and Fully Autonomous.

Launching Mode: Segments include Automatic Take-off & Landing, Catapult Launcher, Hand Launched, and Vertical Take-off.

Speed: The segmentation ranges from Supersonic to < 50 Km/hr.

Class: Encompasses a multitude of sub-segments, ranging from Nano UAVs to Exo-stratospheric UAVs.

Application: Sub-segments include Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR), Combat Operations, Delivery & Transportation, and Other Applications.

End User: Segments include Army, Air Force, Navy and Marine, and Other Forces.

Geographical Breakdown: The regions covered span North America, Europe, APAC, South America, and MEA, with detailed analysis for each region and country, accompanied by annual revenue ($ mn) and shipment (thousand units) projections for 2022-2032.

Emerging Key Players

The report profiles key players in the industry, including market leaders and important emerging players, such as Aeronautics, AeroVironment Inc., Airbus S.A.S, Anduril Industries Inc., and more.

As the global military drones market hurtles toward significant growth, this report is a beacon for stakeholders, providing them with comprehensive insights to navigate opportunities and challenges in this dynamic landscape.

Key Attributes

Report Attribute Details No. of Pages 292 Forecast Period 2022-2032 Estimated Market Value (USD) in 2022 $12.8 Billion Forecasted Market Value (USD) by 2032 $28.94 Billion Compound Annual Growth Rate 8.5% Regions Covered Global

Key Topics Covered



1 Introduction

2 Market Overview and Dynamics

3 Segmentation of Global Market by Offering

4 Segmentation of Global Market by Frame

5 Segmentation of Global Market by MTOW

6 Segmentation of Global Market by Mode of Operation

7 Segmentation of Global Market by Launching Mode

8 Segmentation of Global Market by Speed

9 Segmentation of Global Market by Class

10 Segmentation of Global Market by Application

11 Segmentation of Global Market by End-user

12 Segmentation of Global Market by Region

13 Competitive Landscape



For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/acj8zv

About ResearchAndMarkets.com

ResearchAndMarkets.com is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends.

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VANCOUVER, BC, Aug. 29, 2023 /CNW/ - Golden Shield Resources Inc. (CSE: GSRI) (OTCQB: GSRFF) (FRA: 4LE0) (the "Company" or "Golden Shield") is pleased to report on recent work at its flagship, 5,457-hectare, Marudi Mountain gold project located in southwestern Guyana (the "Marudi Mountain Property" or "Marudi"), as well provide an update on preparations for Reverse Circulation ("RC") and subsequent Diamond drilling.

1) MARUDI NORTH

Surface Sampling: The Company has received assay results from grab samples taken during grid-traverse mapping, west and downslope of, the historically drilled, Marudi North prospect. Approximately 187 grab samples were collected over an area of 300 meters by 110 meters. Of these samples, 98 samples (representing 52% of the samples collected) yielded assays greater than 1.0 g/t gold ranging between 1.2 g/t and 37.6 g/t with an average tenor of 5.8 g/t gold. Given the high-grade nature of these assays, the observations of veining (fluid flow), silica flooding (alteration), abundant pyrite (sulphidation), stretching and rotation of pyrite (deformation) visible gold observed in four mineralized samples of the Ferruginous Quartzite ("FQ"), the Marudi North Prospect has been upgraded to Priority #1 for RC drilling. This will be undertaken by the Company owned and operated RC/Aircore ("AC") Prospector II Drill Rig. Drilling is expected to commence next week.

Historical Diamond Drilling: Marudi North was first drilled in 1947 and has been the subject of intermittent exploration. Marudi North has been tested by 43 historical diamond drill holes, totaling 8,150 meters. Table I below is a tabulation of selected drill hole intersections.

TABLE 1: Historical Marudi North drill hole intersections

From (m) To (m) Intersection (m) Grade (Au g/t) Host Geology 1947 Drilling 91.40 94.18 2.78 3.90 FQ 74.07 78.03 3.96 15.7 FQ 99.06 103.08 4.02 8.50 FQ

1993 Drilling 99 108 9.00 1.90 FQ 186 192 6.00 1.47 FQ

2011 Drilling 12.5 24.5 12.00 2.78 FQ















Figure 1: West-East Section (location shown in Map 1 below) generated from the historical diamond drilling information. (CNW Group/Golden Shield Resources)

Geology: The host rock for all Marudi North historical mineralized intersections is the FQ unit, which also hosts gold mineralization at Mazoa Hill. The FQ at Marudi North occurs in a similar geological setting to Mazoa, as a unit "sandwiched" between foot-wall metavolcanic and hanging-wall metasediments. A 1-2 meters thick, laminated magnetite rich "marker horizon" that locally exhibits the characteristics of a Banded Iron Formation ("BIF"), is sometimes found between the FQ and the hanging wall metasediments. At Marudi, the rock package is structurally complex, developing zones of intense brittle deformation, mostly concentrated in the FQ. Minor veining and brittle fracturing is also developed in other units (mainly metavolcanics and metasediments), however, mineralized sulphides and free visible gold is consistently observed in the central FQ. Mineralization is intermittently developed, forming zones of high-grade "shoots" or intersections. These zones are characterized by densely populated, deformed and elongated sulphides developing a prominent stretching lineation, together with quartz and quartz-sulphide shear and extensional veins.

Story continues

At Marudi North the FQ presents characteristics for a host rock to gold mineralization: it is competent, sandwiched between two rheologically weaker units and is flooded with magnetite, making it a highly reactive host to gold bearing fluids.

Geophysics: As reported in the Company's news release dated August 14, 2023 re-interpreted Heli-mag geophysics traces weak to moderate magnetic lineations. At Marudi North, recent grab samples assaying more than1g/t gold that occur along these lineations may indicate a strike extension to the historically drilled mineralization and perhaps structural repetition of the mineralized unit, again outside of the historic drill pattern.

Mechanized Trenching: At Target 1 (see Figure 2), following receipt of grab sample assay results, a mechanized trench sampling program was initiated prior to RC drilling, in order to trace the source of FQ float and sub-crop by attempting to expose, map and sample in-situ FQ in trenches up to 6 meters deep. To date, in-situ FQ units have been exposed in three trenches over a total distance of 159 meters. Additional mapping and sampling has been completed and a fourth trench is in progress. Assay results from ongoing surface work are pending. Visible gold was noted in trench excavations of highly altered FQ in all trenches. Target 2 (see Figure 2) will be trenched before being scheduled for RC drilling.

RC Drilling Grid: At Marudi North, RC/AC drilling is expected to commence next week. A grid of 35 shallow RC holes is scheduled for Target 1, with target depths on or about 50 meters (see Figure 2).

Figure 2: Location Map of planned RC drill holes with location of Targets 1 and 2, mapped FQ, magnetic lieaments, grab samples, current trenches and historical diamond drill holes overlain on Lidar topography base map. (CNW Group/Golden Shield Resources)

2) ZONE BETWEEN MARUDI NORTH AND MAZOA HILL

As referenced in the Company's news release date August 14, 2023 Golden Shield has drilled 23 holes totaling 7,440 meters at Mazoa Hill. The spatial and temporal relationships between Mazoa Hill and Marudi North mineralization challenged early explorers of the Marudi Property; and they still do. Golden Shield has focused on systematic surface and sampling and mapping of this area and continues to integrate the various databases available, including new geological observations and interpretations and re-interpretations of the Heli-mag data. Figure 3 shows the results of some of this work.

Figure 3: Marudi project prospect scale Map. Note Location of mapped FQ, magnetic lineaments and grab samples. Outlined in blue are prospect areas Golden Shield has identified as targets. (CNW Group/Golden Shield Resources)

3) LOCUST CREEK AND PANCAKE CREEK

This new area is an extensively alluvial-mined creek with its headwaters in the Marudi North area. Lower down creek, the west bank catchment area has yielded significant results with 24 samples assaying greater than 1.0 g/t grab samples. This area is south of the historically drilled Marudi North area and is on-trend with Success-Kimberly trend which has been trenched and is scheduled for RC drilling. A significant fault (see Figure 3), is interpreted from geophysics, is interpreted to separate the western Marudi-North-Locust Ck block from the eastern Toucan-Peace Creek block.

Updates on other areas prospects, Success Creek, Toucan, Kimberly, Success Creek, IP-s and Peace Creek are detailed in Golden Shield's news release dated August 14, 2023, and will be integrated into the drilling schedule as results are received and the Company's geological understanding at Marudi advances.

Next Steps

Surface work. Continued field exploration consisting of trenching and grab sampling and mapping will continue.



RC/AC drilling. The RC Drill Rig is on site and drilling is expected to commence shortly.



Diamond drilling. In late September/early October, once sufficient assay results from the RC drilling have been received, Golden Shield will commence diamond drill testing the best of the RC anomalous areas.

Marudi represents the best understood example of an orogenic gold deposit, hosted in the Kwitwaro group metasediments in the southern Guyana greenstone belts. This, combined with the company's relationships in the area uniquely positions Golden Shield to explore this virgin greenstone belt for additional gold resources.

Quality Assurance

All Golden Shield sample assay results have been independently monitored through a quality control / quality assurance ("QA/QC") protocol which includes the insertion of blind standards, blanks as well as pulp and reject duplicate samples. Logging and sampling are completed at Golden Shield's core handling facility located at the Marudi property. Drill core is diamond sawn on site and half drill-core samples are securely transported to Actlabs Guyana Inc ("Actlabs") sample preparation and analysis facility in Georgetown, Guyana. Samples are crushed and pulverised and a 50-gram charge is analysed by Fire Assay with gravimetric finish. Golden Shield is not aware of any drilling, sampling, recovery, or other factors that could materially affect the accuracy or reliability of the data referred to herein. ACTLABS Laboratories is independent of Golden Shield.

Qualified Persons

Leo Hathaway, P. Geo, Executive Chair of Golden Shield, and a Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects, has reviewed, verified, and approved the scientific and technical information in this news release and has verified the data underlying that scientific and technical information.

Technical Information

Certain data disclosed in this news release is related to historical drilling results. The Company has not undertaken any independent investigation of the drilling, nor has it independently analyzed the results of the historical exploration work in order to verify the results. The Company considers these historical drill results relevant as the Company is using this data as a guide to plan exploration programs. The Company's current and future exploration work includes verification of the historical data through drilling.

Management Update

Golden Shield also announces that Mr. Hilbert Shields will be stepping down from his role as President and CEO of Golden Shield, effective March 1, 2024. Until such time, Mr. Shields will continue in his role and assist Golden Shield as it seeks to appoint a replacement. Golden Shield will immediately commence a search for its next CEO. Leo Hathaway, Executive Chairman of Golden Shield, commented: "We are extremely grateful to Hilbert for his work at Golden Shield since the company's inception, and wish him every success in his future endeavours".

About Golden Shield

Golden Shield Resources was founded by experienced professionals who are convinced that there are many more gold mines yet to be found in Guyana. The company is well-financed and has three wholly controlled gold projects: Marudi Mountain, Arakaka and Fish Creek. Golden Shield continues to evaluate other gold opportunities in Guyana.

This news release includes certain "ForwardLooking Statements" within the meaning of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and "forwardlooking information" under applicable Canadian securities laws. When used in this news release, the words "anticipate", "believe", "estimate", "expect", "target", "plan", "forecast", "may", "would", "could", "schedule" and similar words or expressions, identify forwardlooking statements or information. These forwardlooking statements or information relate to, among other things: the exploration and development of the Company's mineral projects; and release of exploration results.

Forwardlooking statements and forwardlooking information relating to any future mineral production, liquidity, enhanced value and capital markets profile of Golden Shield, future growth potential for Golden Shield and its business, and future exploration plans are based on management's reasonable assumptions, estimates, expectations, analyses and opinions, which are based on management's experience and perception of trends, current conditions and expected developments, and other factors that management believes are relevant and reasonable in the circumstances, but which may prove to be incorrect. Assumptions have been made regarding, among other things, the price of gold and other metals; no escalation in the severity of the public health crises; costs of exploration and development; the estimated costs of development of exploration projects; Golden Shield's ability to operate in a safe and effective manner and its ability to obtain financing on reasonable terms.

These statements reflect Golden Shield's respective current views with respect to future events and are necessarily based upon a number of other assumptions and estimates that, while considered reasonable by management, are inherently subject to significant business, economic, competitive, political and social uncertainties and contingencies. Many factors, both known and unknown, could cause actual results, performance, or achievements to be materially different from the results, performance or achievements that are or may be expressed or implied by such forwardlooking statements or forward-looking information and Golden Shield has made assumptions and estimates based on or related to many of these factors. Such factors include, without limitation: the Company's dependence on one mineral project; precious metals price volatility; risks associated with the conduct of the Company's mineral exploration activities in Guyana; regulatory, consent or permitting delays; risks relating to reliance on the Company's management team and outside contractors; risks regarding mineral resources and reserves; the Company's inability to obtain insurance to cover all risks, on a commercially reasonable basis or at all; currency fluctuations; risks regarding the failure to generate sufficient cash flow from operations; risks relating to project financing and equity issuances; risks and unknowns inherent in all mining projects, including the inaccuracy of reserves and resources, metallurgical recoveries and capital and operating costs of such projects; contests over title to properties, particularly title to undeveloped properties; laws and regulations governing the environment, health and safety; the ability of the communities in which the Company operates to manage and cope with the implications of public health crises; the economic and financial implications of public health crises to the Company; operating or technical difficulties in connection with mining or development activities; employee relations, labour unrest or unavailability; the Company's interactions with surrounding communities and artisanal miners; the Company's ability to successfully integrate acquired assets; the speculative nature of exploration and development, including the risks of diminishing quantities or grades of reserves; stock market volatility; conflicts of interest among certain directors and officers; lack of liquidity for shareholders of the Company; litigation risk; and the factors identified in the Company's public disclosure documents available on www.sedar.com. Readers are cautioned against attributing undue certainty to forwardlooking statements or forward-looking information. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially, there may be other factors that cause results not to be anticipated, estimated or intended. The Company does not intend, and does not assume any obligation, to update these forwardlooking statements or forward-looking information to reflect changes in assumptions or changes in circumstances or any other events affecting such statements or information, other than as required by applicable law.

Golden Shield Resources Inc. Logo (CNW Group/Golden Shield Resources)

SOURCE Golden Shield Resources

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The IRS has clarified that catch-up contributions will be allowed in 2024 and beyond.

The IRS recently announced some welcome news for higher-income workers with 401(k)s and similar retirement plans. The agency delayed implementing a new rule that would have required catch-up contributions made by people earning over $145,000 to be directed into an after-tax Roth account.

The rule change was originally set to start in 2024, but will now be postponed until 2026 thanks to the new two-year administrative transition period. This gives savers who are both nearing retirement and earning over $145,000 two additional years to make catch-up contributions on a pre-tax basis.

A financial advisor can review your retirement plan and provide recommendations for the future. Speak with an advisor today.

Why the IRS Announced This

The Roth catch-up requirement is a part of the SECURE Act 2.0 signed into law in late 2022. A provision of the legislation mandated that starting in 2024, any catch-up contributions made to a 401(k) or similar workplace retirement account by someone earning over $145,000 in the prior year must be made on a Roth basis. With Roth contributions, you pay taxes on the money upfront in exchange for tax-free growth and withdrawals.

In a separate issue, the authors of the legislation mistakenly deleted the provision allowing any and all catch-up contributions for savers at every income level. As written and enacted into law, this error meant the end of catch-up contributions entirely after 2023. Congress had acknowledged the oversight, but has yet to pass correcting legislation to restore catch-ups.

Then the IRS stepped in. The agency essentially indicated it wasnt waiting for a legislative fix. Instead, it will act as though the glitch never happened. In short, as far as the IRS is concerned, catch-up contributions can continue as before in 2024 and beyond, no matter what the language of the law says.

The notice also clarifies that the SECURE 2.0 Act does not prohibit plans from permitting catch-up contributions, so plan participants who are age 50 and over can still make catch-up contributions after 2023, the IRS stated in its announcement.

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How This Impacts Retirement Savers

A man contemplates his financial plan for retirement.

The accidental removal of catch-up contributions could have had significant implications for anyone over 50 and nearing retirement. Catch-up contributions allow people 50 and over to make extra 401(k) contributions above the regular annual limits, turbocharging savings in the crucial years before retirement. This could have left some retirement nest eggs short of the amount needed for a comfortable and secure retirement.

The burden posed by the Roth requirement for catch-up contributions for higher earners loomed somewhat less large. This change would have forced savers to immediately pay taxes on catch-up contributions rather than putting the funds away pre-tax.

Roth accounts generally provide the potential for significantly greater returns on retirement investments. Thats because withdrawals are free of income taxes. However, when savers cant defer taxes on contributions, it can increase taxable income in the here and now. Worst case, this can push them into a higher marginal tax bracket.

Employers faced a more significant and certain burden as well. Thats because employer-sponsored retirement plans without Roth plans would have had only months to add them to accommodate catch-ups for employees earning at least $145,000. Their loud complaints about this nuisance provided a strong impetus for the IRS to act by creating this transition period.

Bottom Line

Thanks to IRS transitional relief, retirement savers have more flexibility with their catch-up contributions until 2026. They can also breathe easier thanks to the agencys announcement that it will essentially disregard an error in the SECURE Act 2.0 of 2022 that would have eliminated all catch-up contributions altogether starting in 2024.

Here are some ways you may be able to take advantage this change:

If youre 50 or older, take advantage of two more years of pre-tax catch-up contributions to lower your taxable income before the Roth rule kicks in.

If you can afford it, use the delay to direct some catch-up dollars to a Roth voluntarily to hedge your bets.

Develop a plan for 2026 and beyond when catch-ups must be done on a Roth basis.

Speak with a financial advisor about how to account for this in your retirement plan.

Retirement Planning Tips

Your income, employer matches, taxes and other factors work together to affect how your 401(k) grows. SmartAssets 401(k) calculator cuts through the complexity to project how much youll have when its time to retire.

Confused about catch-up contributions and income limits? A financial advisor can help, and finding one doesnt have to be hard. SmartAssets free tool matches you with up to three vetted financial advisors who serve your area, and you can have a free introductory call with your advisor matches to decide which one you feel is right for you. If youre ready to find an advisor who can help you achieve your financial goals, get started now.

Photo credit: iStock.com/Pgiam, iStock.com/shapecharge

The post Good News for People Who Make $145K: IRS Delays New Catch-Up Contribution Rule Until 2026 appeared first on SmartReads by SmartAsset.
The new NK and NKE range take end-suction pumps to the next level in terms of energy efficiency, connectivity, and durability

BANGKOK, Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- As demand for intelligent solutions accelerates to build more connected, resilient, and sustainable cities, Grundfos, a global leader in advanced pump solutions and water technologies, today launched its new NK and NKE range in Thailand. The new long-coupled end-suction pumps feature industry-leading energy efficiency, with the premium NKE range utilising smart technology to bring ease of use, monitoring capabilities, and greater connectivity.

Grundfos launched its new NK and NKE range of end-suction pumps in Asia-Pacific, boasting greater energy efficiency, connectivity, and durability.

With buildings accounting for 20.9 per cent of energy consumption in Thailand[1], the government has introduced energy efficiency targets for the sector to support the national net zero ambition, as outlined in policies such as the Ministry of Energy's 20-year Energy Efficiency Development Plan and Building Energy Code[2]. In recognising the importance of ensuring sustainable urban development, the government has also embarked on smart city initiatives that harness intelligent technology to achieve energy efficiency targets under its Thailand 4.0 strategy[3].

As multi-purpose pumps that play a role in a variety of different applications in areas including cooling and heating in commercial buildings, Grundfos introduced the new and improved NK and NKE range to complement its strong portfolio of energy efficient water solutions, providing customers with a holistic range of highly efficient solutions at every level.

Achieving tomorrow's efficiency demands today

The new NK and NKE range offer industry-leading energy efficiency as standard. All pumps are built to IE3 as a minimum, which reduces energy consumption and operation costs and exceeds all current regulatory requirements.

For even greater control and efficiency, the premium NKE range is able to operate up to the highest IE5 efficiency, achieved through intelligent features such as an integrated permanent magnet MGE motor with variable frequency drive, and built-in pressure sensor. These features work together in detecting and adjusting water pressure and flow intuitively, ensuring optimum conditions 24/7.

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With these intelligent components built directly into the solution, NKE removes the need to install any external components such as controllers, frequency-converters, and sensors, which can add further complexity and costs to the process.

Intelligent control and monitoring at your fingertips

Combining cloud connectivity and digitalisation, the NKE range also allows for remote monitoring and access over the system, enabling intelligent control right at your fingertips. This makes NKE compatible with today's building automation and building management systems.

Users can monitor, control, and schedule water use from their smartphone with the Grundfos GO REMOTE app, available for both iOS and Android operating systems. With the ability to manage tasks anytime when in range, NKE reduces the need for manpower, lowering operating costs.

Users can also easily access pump diagnostics, create, and email reports on-site from the app. This ensures any operational issues can be quickly addressed, reducing unnecessary downtime and maintenance costs, and ultimately extend the lifespan of their end-suction pumps.

Designed and built to last

In addition to their advanced efficiency and intelligent upgrades, the new NK and NKE range also include significant technical improvements to maximise reliability and durability, enabling the pumps to be installed, operated, and maintained more easily.

Notably, Grundfos utilised a single manufacturing process which eliminates misalignment, producing longer lasting seals and bearings. The pumps also boast improved hydraulics, which supports the overall efficiency in water flow conditions. The new pump design allows users to easily access the mechanical seal without the removal or disruption of other components. Other improvements include greater noise reduction and an increased temperature range.

Kenth Hvid Nielsen, Grundfos' Regional Managing Director, APAC, Commercial Buildings, said, "Rapid urbanisation, demographic shifts, and climate change in Thailand are key drivers for the need for smarter and more sustainable solutions to build more resilient future cities. As the first company in the water solutions sector to receive full validation of our 2050 net-zero target from the Science-Based Targets initiative (SBTi), we are proud to launch the new NK and NKE range, which not only contributes to the country's development of smart cities, but also aligns with Grundfos' climate commitments. With the new offering, we look forward to delivering more sustainable, efficient, and cost-effective pump solutions with shorter lead times and locally supported services in Thailand."

For more information about the new Grundfos NK and NKE, please visit: https://product-selection.grundfos.com/th/products/nk-nke-nke-series-2000-nk-bare-shaft?tab=explore&b=123.

About Grundfos

Grundfos pioneers solutions to the world's water and climate challenges and improves quality of life for people. As a leading global pump and water solutions company, we promise to respect, protect, and advance the flow of water by providing energy and water efficient solutions and systems for a wide range of applications for water utilities, industries and buildings. Find out more: grundfos.com

Grundfos, Possibility in every drop (PRNewsfoto/Grundfos)

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SOURCE Grundfos
Harvard Business School's Francesca Gino

Francesca Gino could be the first person ever to be stripped of tenure at Harvard University

If Harvard Business School is successful in stripping Professor Francesca Gino of tenure, it could be the very first time any faculty member at Harvard University has lost the lifetime protection tenure offers a faculty member.

Harvards Office of the President notified Gino that it had begun the process of reviewing her tenure on July 28 over allegations of research misconduct, nine years to the month in which she was promoted to a full professor and granted tenure by Harvard Business School on July 1 of 2014. HBS Dean Srikant Datar had already put Gino on an unpaid administrative leave, banned her from campus, revoked her named professorship, and prevented the professor from publishing on Harvard Business School platforms. Ginos lawyers, who filed a $25 million lawsuit against Harvard, HBS Dean Datar and the authors of the Data Colada blog that initially alleged data fraud in her research, confirmed that the process had begun.

If Gino loses tenure, it would likely be the first time Harvard University has forcibly stripped a tenured faculty members position since the 1940s, when the American Association of University Professors formalized tenure rules. Tenured faculty have long been considered invincible. More often than not, professors who are under pressure from a university administration voluntarily surrender their tenure or simply retire.

GINO COULD BE THE FIRST HARVARD PROFESSOR TO BE STRIPPED OF TENURE EVER

Harvards own rules maintain that it has the power to dismiss a tenured professor only for grave misconduct or neglect of duty, though it does not define those terms.

The Harvard Crimson, the universitys student newspaper, noted the challenges of the process. Ginos tenure review promises to be a complex process, even without considering the ongoing lawsuit, according to the Crimson. Before the Harvard Corporation  the Universitys highest governing body  makes a final determination, the complaint must pass through reviews by two separate bodies. First, a Screening Committee must make an initial assessment of the claims against Gino. If it decides further action is warranted, this first committee makes a recommendation to a Hearing Committee. This second committee, composed of tenured professors, then conducts an investigation and recommends further action to the Corporation, which has final jurisdiction over tenure revocation.

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That review will occur while Ginos lawsuit moves forward in U.S. District Court in Boston. Gino received the notice from Harvard five days before she filed her Aug. 2 lawsuit alleging defamation, breach of contract and gender discrimination.

AN HBS COMMITTEE FOUND GINO RESPONSIBLE FOR RESEARCH MISCONDUCT

An award-winning behavioral scientist at Harvard Business School, Gino was first accused of fabricating data by Data Colada in July of 2021 when authors of the blog approached Harvard Business School with their allegations. According to her lawsuit, Dean Datar negotiated a secret agreement with Data Colada, putting off the publication of their posts until HBS had the opportunity to investigate the claims. After an 18-month-long investigation by a three-person committee of former and current HBS professors, the panel concluded that Gino was responsible for research misconduct. Dean Datar accepted the committees verdict and suggested punishment on June 13th of this year. Gino has maintained her innocence throughout, raising questions about the fairness of the process as well as the harshness of the penalties imposed on her.

Word of the schools findings quickly leaked out. A mere three days later, in a June 16th article entitled A Weird Research-Misconduct Scandal About Dishonesty Just Got Weirder, the Chronicle of Higher Education reported that one of Ginos co-authors claimed that Harvard found that one study contained even more fraudulent data than previously revealed and was now asking the journal to note this new information. It was quickly followed within 24 hours by more detailed reporting by Data Colada with the start of a four-part series examining data in four separate studies co-authored by Gino. We wrote a report about four studies for which we had accumulated the strongest evidence of fraud, the blog authors asserted. We believe that many more Gino-authored papers contain fake data. Perhaps dozens.

HBS Dean Datar sent an email to the schools faculty on the Chronicles article. Last Friday, he wrote, the Chronicle of Higher Education published an article describing concerns that have been raised about the research of a member of our faculty, Francesca Gino, as well as steps the School is taking with journals and co-authors to correct the scientific record. Other outlets are beginning to carry stories as well. While I know you may have questions, confidentiality is an important consideration in these matters. I realize this runs counter to our longstanding norms of transparency and communication but hope that you can appreciate and understand the reasons for this approach.

DEAN DATAR HAD THE SCHOOLS WEBSITE MAKE CLEAR THAT GINO WAS PLACED ON ADMINISTRATIVE LEAVE

As reflected on Professor Ginos public Faculty & Research page, she is now on an administrative leave. We have been taking steps to ensure that her responsibilities are transitioned-working, for example, with the Doctoral Programs leadership to support PhD students, and with the leaders of our educational programs to adjust teaching assignments. I am grateful to those of you who have stepped up to help. If you have a question about an activity or collaboration and have not yet been contacted, please let me know.

Research integrity is and must be one of our core values as an institution. I am grateful for your unwavering commitment to advancing knowledge and for being a vital part of our vibrant research communitv.

Many in the faculty were shocked, if not horrified. They believed Gino was a person of high integrity and would never have manipulated data in a study. In fact, every witness interviewed by the committee that investigated the charges said exactly that.

Harvard has consistently declined public comment on the case, but after Gino file her lawsuit, he wrote another email to the faculty defending his decision to discipline Gino.  I ultimately accepted the investigation committees recommended sanctions, which included immediately placing Professor Gino on administrative leave and correcting the scientific record (a measure incumbent on every responsible academic institution when research misconduct is found), Datar wrote. I did so after consulting confidentially with a small number of individuals at HBS and Harvard, including senior faculty members here at the School, as is permitted by our policy. The sanctions reflect a shared belief that the misconduct represented a significant violation of academic integrity and that the evidence not only met but surpassed the applicable preponderance of evidence standard. I shared my conclusions with Professor Gino and, in accordance with our policy and consistent with University practice, began implementing the institutional actions.

Ginos lead attorney, Andrew Miltenberg, was little impressed byDatars defense. Dean Datars email to faculty leaves many questions unanswered, he told Poets&Quants. For example, why was a brand new policy put in place in 2021 for Professor. Gino, and yet it was only now  in 2023  being shared with faculty?, he asks. And furthermore, why were faculty not consulted at all on this new policy? Why specifically was Harvard abandoning its former policy and tailoring a new one specifically for Professor Gino? And why, after they rushed to put it in place, did Harvard fail to follow that policy as stated?

DONT MISS: WHAT FRANCESCA GINOS HARVARD LAWSUIT SAYS ABOUT DATA COLADAS FRAUD ALLEGATIONS or THE ACADEMIC MOB COMES FOR A HARVARD BUSINESS SCHOOL THOUGHT LEADER

The post If Harvard Succeeds In Revoking Francesca Ginos Tenure, It Would Be History Making appeared first on Poets&Quants.
We can readily understand why investors are attracted to unprofitable companies. For example, although Amazon.com made losses for many years after listing, if you had bought and held the shares since 1999, you would have made a fortune. Having said that, unprofitable companies are risky because they could potentially burn through all their cash and become distressed.

So should Lepidico (ASX:LPD) shareholders be worried about its cash burn? In this article, we define cash burn as its annual (negative) free cash flow, which is the amount of money a company spends each year to fund its growth. First, we'll determine its cash runway by comparing its cash burn with its cash reserves.

Check out our latest analysis for Lepidico

When Might Lepidico Run Out Of Money?

A company's cash runway is calculated by dividing its cash hoard by its cash burn. In December 2022, Lepidico had AU$17m in cash, and was debt-free. Importantly, its cash burn was AU$19m over the trailing twelve months. Therefore, from December 2022 it had roughly 11 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. However, if we extrapolate the company's recent cash burn trend, then it would have a longer cash run way. You can see how its cash balance has changed over time in the image below.

How Is Lepidico's Cash Burn Changing Over Time?

While Lepidico did record statutory revenue of AU$2.3k over the last year, it didn't have any revenue from operations. That means we consider it a pre-revenue business, and we will focus our growth analysis on cash burn, for now. The skyrocketing cash burn up 107% year on year certainly tests our nerves. That sort of spending growth rate can't continue for very long before it causes balance sheet weakness, generally speaking. While the past is always worth studying, it is the future that matters most of all. So you might want to take a peek at how much the company is expected to grow in the next few years.

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Can Lepidico Raise More Cash Easily?

Given its cash burn trajectory, Lepidico shareholders should already be thinking about how easy it might be for it to raise further cash in the future. Issuing new shares, or taking on debt, are the most common ways for a listed company to raise more money for its business. Commonly, a business will sell new shares in itself to raise cash and drive growth. By looking at a company's cash burn relative to its market capitalisation, we gain insight on how much shareholders would be diluted if the company needed to raise enough cash to cover another year's cash burn.

Since it has a market capitalisation of AU$84m, Lepidico's AU$19m in cash burn equates to about 22% of its market value. That's not insignificant, and if the company had to sell enough shares to fund another year's growth at the current share price, you'd likely witness fairly costly dilution.

How Risky Is Lepidico's Cash Burn Situation?

Lepidico is not in a great position when it comes to its cash burn situation. While its cash burn relative to its market cap wasn't too bad, its increasing cash burn does leave us rather nervous. Summing up, we think the Lepidico's cash burn is a risk, based on the factors we mentioned in this article. Taking a deeper dive, we've spotted 8 warning signs for Lepidico you should be aware of, and 2 of them don't sit too well with us.

Of course, you might find a fantastic investment by looking elsewhere. So take a peek at this free list of interesting companies, and this list of stocks growth stocks (according to analyst forecasts)

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com.



This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.
(Bloomberg) -- Hewlett Packard Enterprise Co. boosted its annual profit outlook, confident that businesses are upgrading technology despite concerns about the economy.

Most Read from Bloomberg

Earnings, excluding some items, will be $2.11 and $2.15 a share for the fiscal year ending in October, the Houston-based company said Tuesday in a statement. It previously forecast $2.06 to $2.14 a share. HPE also affirmed its previous full-year cash flow guidance of about $2 billion.

HPE affirmed its annual sales guidance earlier this month when the company announced that Chief Financial Officer Tarek Robbiati would depart to lead RingCentral Inc. Investors have shifted their focus and want to see whether HPEs Compute and Storage units  old-line hardware businesses  can stem their recent declines, wrote Bloomberg Intelligences Woo Jin Ho ahead of earnings.

Fiscal third-quarter revenue gained about 1% to $7 billion, in line with analysts estimates. Sales in the Compute unit, which includes data centers and servers, declined 13% to $2.6 billion, slightly worse than analysts estimated. Storage sales dropped 5% to $1.1 billion in the period ended July 31, just better than expected.

The company is less reliant on the compute and server units due to growth in high-margin businesses, Chief Executive Officer Antonio Neri said in an interview.

Sales in companys fastest-growing business unit, Intelligent Edge, jumped 50% to $1.4 billion. The division, which is a key part of HPEs transformation plan away from traditional hardware, covers products that let companies gather and process data where it is generated instead of sending it to an external storage center.

The shares rose about 1% in extended trading after closing at $16.84 in New York. The stock gained 5.7% this year through Tuesdays close.

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2023 Bloomberg L.P.
Fortune Business Insights

Key companies covered in hybrid rice seeds market are Syngenta AG (Switzerland), Bayer AG (Germany), UPL Ltd. (India), Nath Bio-Genes Ltd. (India), Nirmal Seeds Pvt. Ltd (India), Biostadt India Ltd. (India), Yuan Longping High-tech Agriculture Co., Ltd. (China), Wuhan Comega Seed Co., Ltd. (China), Nuziveedu Seeds Ltd. (India), RiceTec, Inc. (United States) and many more

Hybrid Rice Seeds Market

Hybrid Rice Seeds Market

Pune, India, Aug. 29, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The global hybrid rice seeds market size is projected to reach USD 5.43 billion in 2027, exhibiting a CAGR of 13.32% during the forecast period. Fortune Business Insights shares this information in its report, titled Hybrid Rice Seeds Market, 2020-2027. As per the report, the value of the market stood at USD 2.06 billion in 2019.

Rice is a staple crop for nearly 60% of the global population. It is highly produced and consumed across regions with increasing applications in the food and beverages industry. According to the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), in 2018, the total production of rice across the globe stood at nearly 755 million metric tonnes with around 90% being produced in the Asian countries. However, the rapidly growing population in the world is pushing the limits of the current production capacity, raising concerns about food security. Therefore, the industry-leading corporations are encouraged to adopt hybrid type of rice seeds for better yield.

Get a Sample Research Report:

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List of Key Companies Covered in the Global Hybrid Rice Seeds Market:

Syngenta AG (Switzerland)

Bayer AG (Germany)

UPL Ltd. (India)

Nath Bio-Genes Ltd. (India)

Nirmal Seeds Pvt. Ltd (India)

Biostadt India Ltd. (India)

Yuan Longping High-tech Agriculture Co., Ltd. (China)

Wuhan Comega Seed Co., Ltd. (China)

Nuziveedu Seeds Ltd. (India)

RiceTec, Inc. (United States)

Hybrid rice seeds are seeds produced by crossing two genetically distinct parent rice varieties to create a hybrid with desirable traits, such as higher yield, disease resistance, and better grain quality. Hybrid rice breeding is a technique used to improve rice production and address food security challenges.



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Hybrid rice has been successful in increasing rice productivity in various parts of the world, especially in countries where rice is a staple food. However, there are ongoing discussions about the balance between hybrid rice and traditional rice varieties, as well as the importance of maintaining biodiversity and ensuring farmer access to quality seeds.

Market Segregation:



The market is segregated into type, grain size, and geography. Based on type, the market is segmented into 3-line breeding systems and 2-line breeding systems. In terms of grain size, the market has been divided into long grains, medium grains, and short grains. On the basis of the region, the market has been clubbed into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, South America, and the Middle East & Africa.

Browse Detailed Summary of Research Report with TOC:

https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/hybrid-rice-seeds-market-104926

Report Scope & Segmentation:

Report Attribute Details Forecast Period 2020-2027 Forecast CAGR 13.32% 2027 Value Projection USD 5.43 billion Market Size in 2020 USD 2.26 billion Historical Data 2016-2018 No. of Pages 152 Report Coverage Revenue Forecast, Company Profiles, Competitive Landscape, Growth Factors and Latest Trends Segments Covered By Type

By Grain Size

By Region Regions Covered North America

Europe

Asia Pacific

Latin America

Middle East and Africa Crop Protection Chemicals Market Growth Drivers Increasing Consumption of Rice Globally to Augment Hybrid Rice Seeds Market Growth

What Does the Report Offer?

The report provides a detailed analysis of the key market aspects, namely, the dominant companies, end-users, and leading product types. Apart from this, the report contains tangible insights into the current & upcoming market trends and highlights prominent industry developments. In addition to these factors, the report supplies a holistic understanding of the main drivers, restraints, and segments that are contributing to the growth of the market.

Driving Factors



Surging demand For Rice Worldwide to Drive Growth

The increasing demand for rice due to its high consumption in most parts of the world is estimated to drive the hybrid rice seeds market growth. For instance, according to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), rice provides nutrition to nearly 33 developing countries. In addition, the incorporation of stress tolerance into the high-yielding varieties of seeds is estimated to further strengthen the demand for these type of hybrid seeds.

Restraining factors

Hybrid Rice Seeds Market to Register Lower Growth in 2020 Amid COVID-19: Fortune Business Insights

The emergence of COVID-19 has had a negative impact on the global market. Amid the pandemic, the market has witnessed a total growth of 9.9% in 2020, which is lower as compared to the average year-on-year growth during 2016-2019.

Producing hybrid rice seeds requires extensive research and development, which adds to the final cost. Moreover, getting regulatory approval is a time-consuming process, which delays the production process. Such factors are expected to hinder growth.

Regional Insights

Increasing Demand from Major Countries to Help Asia Pacific Dominate

Asia Pacific is estimated to dominate the global market with a value of USD 1.84 billion in 2019. The growth in the region is attributable to the high production of hybrid rice seeds in countries including China, India, Vietnam, and Thailand. In addition, governments from different countries are collaborating to further increase production. For instance, in 2019, The Philippine-Sino Center for Agricultural Technology (PhilSCAT) developed four varieties of hybrid rice with the help of grants from China.

The Middle East & Africa is anticipated to secure the second-largest hybrid rice seeds market share. The introduction of the latest technologies in the development and processing of hybrid rice seeds is estimated to enhance the production capacity of the region.

Competitive Landscape



Mergers and Acquisitions to Aid Key Players Develop New Products

Prominent enterprises operating in the global market are focusing on strategies such as mergers and acquisitions. This will help them develop new products and increase their product line. For instance, in January 2019, RiceTec, Inc., announced the acquisition of rice seed assets of Ganga Kaveri Seeds of Hyderabad. This helped the company utilize the superior rice seed genetics of Ganga Kaveri for innovating its own hybrid rice variants in India.

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Key Industry Developments:

In September 2020, NK Seeds, in partnership with Syngenta, introduced Cropwise Seed Selector, which is anticipated to help the farmers streamline and optimize the high-quality hybrid seeds selection process.

In June 2019, RiceTec, Inc. announced the licensing agreement with Benson Hill. Under this, RiceTec will use Benson Hills technologies for its research and development of hybrid rice operations.

Detailed Table of Content

Introduction Research Scope Market Segmentation Research Methodology Definitions and Assumptions

Executive Summary

Market Dynamics Market Drivers Market Restraints Market Opportunities Emerging Trends

Key Insights Overview on the Global Rice Market Market Dynamics on Global Hybrid Seeds Analysis on Demand for Hybrid Rice Seeds Product Supply Chain & Industry SWOT Analysis Pricing Analysis on Hybrid Rice Seeds Recent Industry Developments: Policies, Partnerships, New Product Launches, and Mergers & Acquisitions Economics of Hybrid Rice Seed Production Hybrid Rice Seed Industry- Porter's Five Forces Analysis Market Analysis and Insights (in Relation with COVID-19) Impact of COVID-19 on the Market Supply Chain Challenges due to the Pandemic Potential Opportunities to Support the during the Global Crisis

Global Hybrid Rice Seeds Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2016-2027 Key Findings / Summary Market Size Estimates and Forecast By Type (Value) 3-line Breeding Systems 2-line Breeding Systems By Grain Size (Value) Long Grains Medium Grains Short Grains By Region (Value) North America Europe Asia Pacific South America Middle East & Africa

North America Hybrid Rice Seeds Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2016-2027 Key Findings / Summary Market Size Estimates and Forecast By Type (Value) 3-line Breeding Systems 2-line Breeding Systems By Grain Size (Value) Long Grains Medium Grains Short Grains By Country (Value) U.S. Mexico



TOC Continued!

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Read Related Insights:

Hybrid Seeds Market Size, Share and Geography Forecast Till 2030

Vegetable Seeds Market Size, Share & Analysis and Regional Forecast, 2021-2028

Commercial Seed Market Size, Share and Industry Analysis and Regional Forecast 2018-2025

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Fortune Business Insights delivers accurate data and innovative corporate analysis, helping organizations of all sizes make appropriate decisions. We tailor novel solutions for our clients, assisting them to address various challenges distinct to their businesses. Our aim is to empower them with holistic market intelligence, providing a granular overview of the market they are operating in.

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Attachment




The extended agreement covers any European country

RA'ANANA, Israel, Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Inspira Technologies OXY B.H.N. Ltd. (Nasdaq: IINN) (Nasdaq: IINNW) (the "Company" or "Inspira"), a company dedicated to advancing acute respiratory care by enabling breathing without lungs, announced today that it has signed a further Service Agreement to supplement its previously announced Strategic Agreement with Innovimed Sp. z o.o ("Innovimed") for planned clinical trials (clinical pilot studies) of the INSPIRA ART medical devices.

Inspira Technologies Logo

The extended agreement covers any European country. The company to-date have signed summary distribution agreements with Innovimed in Poland, Czech Republic and Slovakia, subject to completion of product development and regulatory approval, potentially generating over $130 million in revenues for the Company over seven years.

The Company medical devices are aimed at significantly reducing mortality rates and the risk of coma, bacterial infections, and other related risks that are prevalent in legacy invasive mechanical ventilation systems used today in twenty million patients every year.

Inspira CEO, Dagi Ben-Noon said: "We believe that this agreement is a strong move towards making Inspira's technology well-recognized in the European Union ahead of future commercialization of the systems."

About Innovi Medical ("Innovimed")

Innovimed was established to support global MedTech and Pharma companies with market penetration in emerging markets. With its headquarters located in Europe, it offers a broad and efficient operational service and experience. Innovimed has in-depth knowledge of the regions within which it operates, and it applies a strategic approach to the support it provides to launch products within such countries' markets.

For more information, please visit our corporate website: https://innovimed.com.

About Inspira Technologies OXY B.H.N. Ltd.

Inspira Technologies maintains a steadfast mission to revolutionize acute respiratory care through innovation. The Company's primary objective is the development of medical technologies and products aimed at preventing the necessity of mechanical ventilation. Its flagship product, the INSPIRATM ART500, is intricately designed to rapidly elevate blood oxygen saturation levels, all while keeping patients conscious and alert. Moreover, the Company is dedicated to providing advanced blood circulation technology and integrating AI-driven monitoring and analytics. These elements combine to create patient-centric, data-driven solutions, ultimately enhancing patient outcomes and optimizing hospital efficiency.

Story continues

For more information, please visit: https://inspira-technologies.com

Forward-Looking Statement Disclaimer

This press release contains express or implied forward-looking statements under U.S. Federal securities laws. These forward-looking statements and their implications are based on the current expectations of the management of the Company only. They are subject to several factors and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements. For example, the Company uses forward-looking statements when it discusses that the clinical trials agreed upon in this agreement are expected to provide future marketing awareness of its devices in the European Union, its satisfaction of certain development and regulatory approvals, its potential generation of [$130 million] in revenues for the Company, and the belief that the agreement is a strong move towards making Inspira's technology well-recognized in the European Union ahead of the future commercialization of the systems. These forward-looking statements and their implications are based solely on the current expectations of the Company's management. They are subject to some factors and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements. Except as otherwise required by law, the Company undertakes no obligation to publicly release any revisions to these forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereof or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events. More detailed information about the risks and uncertainties affecting the Company is contained under the heading "Risk Factors" in the Company's annual report on Form 20-F for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2022, filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC"), which is available on the SEC's website, www.sec.gov

For more details:

Public Relations Manager

Adi Shmueli

Inspira Technologies

info@inspirao2.com

+972-9-9664485

MRK-ARS-067

Copyright  2018-2023 Inspira Technologies OXY B.H.N. LTD., All rights reserved.

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SOURCE Inspira Technologies
By Elvira Pollina and Giuseppe Fonte

MILAN (Reuters) -Italy's Treasury can take full ownership of Telecom Italia's (TIM) submarine cable unit Sparkle as part of an agreement with U.S. fund KKR to jointly bid for the group's fixed grid, a draft government decree showed on Tuesday.

The Italian government on Monday approved two decrees providing for the Treasury to take a 15-20% stake in NetCo, a venture comprising both TIM's domestic fixed-access network and Sparkle.

The decrees, seen by Reuters, showed the Treasury would also be able to acquire Sparkle "at a later stage".

An international wholesale telecoms operator, Sparkle manages fibre cables that stretch over 600,000 kilometres. It was valued at up to 1.2 billion euros in KKR's preliminary bid for NetCo, sources have said.

The sale of the network is a key plank in TIM CEO Pietro Labriola's attempts to reshape the former telecoms monopoly that has long been hobbled by a huge debt burden.

The government move considerably increases the chances of the deal being finalised, "given the clear and strong political support", broker Equita wrote in a research note.

KKR has offered around 23 billion euros ($24.9 billion) for NetCo once debt and a number of variable items are included, while leaving the door open for the government to join its bid and maintain oversight of the asset.

VIVENDI AWAITS CALL

The decrees authorise the Treasury to submit a binding offer together with KKR and other Italian investors for NetCo, resulting in a minority stake for the ministry worth a maximum 2.2 billion euros.

A potential hurdle remains the stance of TIM's top investor Vivendi, which has so far demanded a higher valuation to back any deal and questioned the sustainability of TIM's remaining service business.

Top representatives from the French media company, which holds a 24% stake in TIM, are waiting to be summoned to discuss the deal with Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's senior aides although no meeting has been scheduled so far, sources close to the matter said.

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TIM's network is Italy's main telecommunications infrastructure and government authorities have for years been looking to ensure investments are carried out to upgrade it to fast fibre, while also protecting jobs.

The decrees envisage governance rights for the Treasury in NetCo allowing it to oversee decisions of strategic importance and national security, "including in the event of a change in the shareholding structure".

($1 = 0.9252 euros)

(Editing by Jason Neely and Keith Weir)
PeopleImages / Getty Images/iStockphoto

Working while its hot outside is not only uncomfortable but also a financial drain. High temperatures cause workers to lose both hours and productivity, and the effect on the economy at large is huge. According to a report from the Adrienne Arsht-Rockefeller Foundation Resilience Center, the loss of labor as a result of heat exposure cost the economy about $100 billion in 2020 alone, and that number is expected to hit $500 billion annually by 2050.

Another report by the Lancet, found more than 2.5 billion hours of labor in the U.S. agriculture, manufacturing, service and construction sectors were lost due to the heat in 2021 alone. But how does heat tie into economic loss in the U.S., and what does it mean for your job?

Jaspreet Singh: 5 Assets To Buy So You Never Have To Work Again

Also: How To Get Cash Back on Your Everyday Purchases

Why Do High Temperatures Cost the U.S. Economy?

High temperatures take a toll on the U.S. economy in a number of ways, but the effect on human productivity and safety is often overlooked. Its clear that climate change has had devastating physical effects on goods produced in the United States, with higher-than-normal temperatures drying out crops and stronger-than-normal storms creating flood damage.

Insurance rates have also risen in response to the increasing frequency of these natural calamities, according to the New York Times. But the loss of worker productivity and jobs has also resulted in significant losses to the American economy.

Research from the International Journal of Biometeorology has found that once temperatures break 90 degrees Fahrenheit, productivity drops by 25%. As the mercury crosses 100 degrees, productivity falls off a cliff, dropping by a whopping 70%.

Data from IOPscience finds that workers end up losing money the higher the temperature rises, with losses being disproportionately allocated to poorer counties over wealthier ones. Specifically, workers in poorer counties lose up to 5% of their pay per hot day, versus just 1% per day in wealthier counties. This could be due to a combination of factors, from the fact that workers in poorer counties tend to do more labor-intensive jobs to the ability of wealthier counties to provide more adequate protections for workers.

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Is Your Job Safe From Heat-Related Job Losses?

Based on the data from these researchers, youre more likely to lose your job due to climate change and rising temperatures if you work in a poor county versus a wealthy one. IOPscience predicts job losses in poorer counties due to climate change will run at 4.8% annually from 2040 to 2050, compared to virtually no change in wealthier counties.

This is due in large part to the fact that workers in poorer counties are simply subjected to more heat. The IOPscience data projects that in the United States, the rich will be exposed to 50 fewer days of temperatures greater than 90 degrees Fahrenheit than the poor.

Some industries affected by higher heat are more obvious than others. Construction workers and field laborers, for example, are clearly exposed to more days of direct sun than those in many other occupations. However, some indoor workers are also subjected to excess heat. Meatpackers and food processing workers, for example, routinely face high-heat environments. Their work environment may be more dangerous that the conditions of those who work outdoors, as they may not get adequate ventilation and fresh air.

Even fast-food workers can be overwhelmed if they hover over hot ovens and deep fryers for long stretches without adequate air conditioning systems. On July 21, for example, some McDonalds workers in Los Angeles walked off the job because their in-store cooling was no match for the citys heat wave.

How You Can Make Up To $100,000 From Coin Roll Hunting: Here Are 5 Tips for Making Money From This Hobby

The Bottom Line

Using this data as a baseline, it suggests the best way to protect yourself from heat-related job loss is to reduce your exposure on days when the temperature exceeds 90 degrees Fahrenheit. This could be achieved by working in a wealthier county or in a job that doesnt require exposure to intense heat.

In addition to the fact that many Americans dont want to move to a new county or work at a different job, this type of transition is not always financially feasible. The fact remains that increases in heat exposure, particularly above 90 or 100 degrees Fahrenheit, results in loss of productivity, reduced wages and the higher potential for job loss.

More From GOBankingRates

This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: Will Your Job Be Affected by the Heat? How the US Economy Is Losing Billions
A person enters the JPMorgan Chase & Co. New York Head Quarters in Manhattan, New York City

By Tatiana Bautzer

NEW YORK (Reuters) - JPMorgan Chase & Co has increased its stake in Brazilian digital bank C6 to 46% from 40%, the banks said in a statement on Tuesday, without disclosing the financial terms.

The banks said C6 had expanded its number of clients to 25 million from 8 million since June 2021, when JPMorgan bought its initial stake, and had added products such as auto loans.

Sanoke Viswanathan, JPMorgan's CEO of international consumer banking, said the investment in C6 Bank was an important part of the lender's global strategy.

The credit portfolio of C6 had increased to 40 billion reais ($8.2 billion) from 9.5 billion when JPMorgan first invested, according to the statement.

JPMorgan and C6 did not announce a valuation in their 2021 agreement, but C6 was valued at 11.3 billion reais in December 2020, six months before the deal, equivalent to $2.28 billion at the time, when it raised capital from private investors.

C6 posted a 2.2 billion real loss last year, due to increased provisions for credit losses.

($1 = 4.8645 reais)

(Reporting by Tatiana Bautzer; Editing by Chris Reese, Michelle Price and David Holmes)
The Irish dairy brand enters the on-the-go snacking category with new Cheese Snacks, available in the same great Dubliner and Aged Cheddar flavors you know and love.

EVANSTON, Ill., Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Kerrygold, an international brand of Ornua, introduces new Kerrygold Cheese Snacks, ready-to-eat cheese sticks in a convenient and snackable format. Rolling onto store shelves across the U.S. now with eight sticks per pack, Kerrygold Cheese Snacks are gluten-free and a good source of protein, perfect for an instant snack, packed in a lunchbox for the kids, or arranged on a cheese board.

Kerrygold Introduces New Cheese Snacks

"The Cheese Snacks range is an exciting addition to Kerrygold's cheese portfolio, as well as an entry into the ready-to-eat snack category," said Alexandra Vinci, Brand Manager at Kerrygold. "We're thrilled to now have a Kerrygold option for busy parents and kids, as well as all of the on-the-go snackers and brand fans alike."

The range contains two delicious flavors:

Aged Cheddar: A connoisseur's Cheddar, expertly graded and notable for its rich, rounded flavor, creamy taste and firm body.

Dubliner: Distinctive, rounded flavor of a mature Cheddar, with sweet nutty tones of a Swiss and a piquant bite of aged Parmesan.

The Cheese Snacks varieties stay true to the Kerrygold tradition of producing flavorful, creamy, and all-natural dairy products, hailing straight from 14,000 small Irish family farms that provide premium-quality milk for Kerrygold products. Kerrygold farmers are members of local milk cooperatives, owned by the farmers themselves, and these co-ops help preserve family farming traditions that have been passed on for generations. The milk from Kerrygold Irish grass-fed cows is rich in beta-carotene which gives Kerrygold Cheese Snacks their rich, natural, golden color.

Kerrygold Cheese Snacks are available at Wegman's, Whole Foods, Giant Foods, and more. Check out select stores found at kerrygoldusa.com/store-locator. For a full list of Kerrygold products and more information, please visit kerrygoldusa.com.

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About Kerrygold USA

Kerrygold was established in 1962 as a premium brand, befitting the rich quality of grass-fed Irish milk. Kerrygold initially launched as a single product brand and is now regarded as Ireland's most successful food brand, reaching 1 billion in annual sales in 2019. Since its creation, Kerrygold has been synonymous with quality, and today, Kerrygold has a special place in the hearts of consumers all over the world.

Kerrygold dairy farmers are committed to the co-operative ideal; working together to produce only the very best grass-fed dairy products. Kerrygold cows graze freely on the fields of 14,000 small family farms; each one using unique dairy farming traditions passed down through generations of family. It is this grass-fed milk that delivers the rich tasting, higher quality dairy products that Kerrygold is famous for.

Today, consumers all over the world enjoy the unique taste of Irish grass-fed dairy. Kerrygold Pure Irish Butter is the number two butter brand in the USA and Kerrygold Dubliner Irish Cheese is the number one specialty cheese.

CONTACT:

Laura Mays

LMays@WeberShandwick.com

Kerrygold Logo (PRNewsfoto/Kerrygold)

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SOURCE Kerrygold
AUBURN HILLS, Mich., Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ --

The Lime Rock Park Historic Festival is spotlighting the Chrysler brand as an honored marque at the 41st edition of the prestigious event, scheduled for Aug 31.  Sept. 4, 2023, at Lime Rock Park in Lakeville, Connecticut. Ralph Gilles, Stellantis chief design officer, will also serve as grand marshal at the event.

Chrysler brand to serve as an honored marque at Lime Rock Park Historic Festival, set for Aug. 31  Sept. 4 at Lime Rock Park in Lakeville, Connecticut

6.4L HEMI  -powered 2023 Chrysler 300C to be showcased at Lime Rock

2023 Chrysler 300C pays tribute to the Chrysler 300 and the end of an era  Chrysler 300 production will end following the 2023 model year

Ralph Gilles, Stellantis chief design officer, to serve as event grand marshal

Additional Chrysler show vehicles featured at event will include a 1941 Chrysler Newport, 1953 Chrysler D'Elegance, 1955 Chrysler 300, 1957 Chrysler Diablo, 1963 Chrysler Turbine car, 2005 Chrysler Firepower concept and more

For more information on Lime Rock Park Historic Festival, visit limerock.com/events/historic-festival-41/

For more information on the Chrysler brand, visit Chrysler.com

The Lime Rock Park Historic Festival is spotlighting the Chrysler brand as an honored marque at the 41st edition of the prestigious event, scheduled for Aug 31.  Sept. 4, 2023, at Lime Rock Park in Lakeville, Connecticut. Ralph Gilles, Stellantis chief design officer, will also serve as grand marshal at the event.

Chrysler vehicles featured at the Lime Rock Park Historic Festival will include the new 2023 Chrysler 300C. The 485-horsepower, 6.4L, HEMI-powered 2023 Chrysler 300C pays tribute to the Chrysler 300 and the end of an era  Chrysler 300 production will end following the 2023 model year. First introduced in 1955 and reborn in 2005, the Chrysler 300 has represented iconic American luxury and performance for decades.

Considered by many to be the first American muscle car, a 1955 Chrysler 300 will also be on display at Lime Rock. Additional Chrysler show vehicles featured include a 1941 Chrysler Newport, 1953 Chrysler D'Elegance, 1957 Chrysler Diablo, 1963 Chrysler Turbine car, 1995 Chrysler Atlantic concept, 2005 Chrysler Firepower concept and more.

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The 41st running of the Lime Rock Historic Festival will include three days of historic racing, a 20-mile competition car parade through the picturesque hills and Sunday in the Park, which combines the Lime Rock Concours with the Gathering of the Marques. More information is available at limerock.com/events/historic-festival-41/.

Chrysler Brand

The Chrysler brand has delighted customers with distinctive designs, craftsmanship, advanced innovation and technology since the company was founded in 1925. The Chrysler Pacifica continues to reinvent the minivan, a segment Chrysler invented nearly 40 years ago. Pacifica delivers an unprecedented level of functionality, versatility, technology and bold styling along with the most standard safety features in the industry and most advanced available all-wheel-drive system in its class. The available innovative plug-in hybrid powertrain takes this revolutionary vehicle a step further. It's the first electrified vehicle in the minivan segment and achieves more than 80 MPGe in electric-only mode, has an all-electric range of more than 30 miles and a total range of more than 500 miles. Chrysler Pacifica is also the most awarded minivan over the last six years with more than 170 honors and industry accolades since its introduction as a minivan. The Chrysler 300 lineup delivers on the brand's promise of accessible luxury, with iconic and elegant design, world-class performance, efficiency and quality. Chrysler is part of the portfolio of brands offered by leading global automaker and mobility provider Stellantis. For more information regarding Stellantis (NYSE: STLA), please visit www.stellantis.com.

Follow Chrysler and company news and video on:

Company blog: http://blog.stellantisnorthamerica.com

Media website: http://media.stellantisnorthamerica.com

Chrysler brand: www.chrysler.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/chrysler

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chrysler

Twitter: www.twitter.com/chrysler or @StellantisNA

YouTube: www.youtube.com/chrysler or https://www.youtube.com/StellantisNA

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SOURCE Stellantis
If you drive an older, polluting car anywhere in London, starting Tuesday youll have to pay a princely charge of 12.50 ($15.70) per day.

In 2019, the British capital became the first city in the world to introduce a round-the-clock Ultra Low Emission Zone, inside which cars and other vehicles have to meet tough emissions standards or face a toll.

That followed the implementation of road pricing in 2003 aimed at reducing congestion in central London. The ULEZ was expanded in 2021 and on Tuesday will be widened again, this time to cover the citys outer boroughs and suburbs. The charge applies 24/7 to gasoline cars generally first registered before 2006 and diesel cars registered before October 2015.

There is still far too much toxic air pollution permanently damaging the health of young Londoners and leading to thousands of early deaths every year, London Mayor Sadiq Khan said in November when he announced the latest expansion.

Expanding the ULEZ London-wide will mean 5 million more people will be able to breathe cleaner air and live healthier lives.

Road pricing to deal with congestion has also been in place in Stockholm since 2007, and in Singapore since as far back as 1975.

New York City is now finally catching up. Gov. Kathy Hochul said in June that the city had been cleared to start charging drivers entering downtown Manhattan. This means New York City could become the first US city to introduce a congestion charge as early as next spring, after more than half a century of trying.

Proposals range from charging vehicles $9 to $23 during peak hours.

The New York toll is designed to lower the number of vehicles entering the congestion zone by at least 10% every day. Slashing congestion would also reduce planet-heating carbon emissions and other pollution.

But the plan is already facing a legal challenge. In July, New Jersey filed a lawsuit against the US Department of Transportation, which gave the final approval for New York Citys congestion pricing.

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The expansion of the ULEZ in London has also been controversial. It spurred  and survived  a legal challenge brought by local authorities in four outer London boroughs and a county bordering the city.

Opposition to the expansion dominated an election in July for a new member of parliament for Uxbridge, a region on the western fringe of London. Khans Labour Party narrowly lost the contest for the seat previously held by the Conservative former Prime Minister Boris Johnson.

In early August, Khan expanded a scrappage program to offer grants of up to 2,000 ($2,517) to every Londoner with a car or motorcycle that doesnt comply with ULEZ standards.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
A man, roughly in his 60s, immediately stood out to Dan Buettner during his travels in search of another blue zone. A self-made millionaire, Douglas Foo began the food chain Sakae Sushi in Singapore in 1997 at age 28. Buettner describes Foo as family-oriented, driven, and energetic. He loves to exercise and engages in his community through volunteer work. Most importantly, he has fun while doing it.

He has a laugh that every time he cracks up, he leans back, opens his mouth, and decants his soul, Buettner, founder of the Blue Zones LLC, National Geographic fellow and best-selling author, tells Fortune in a sit-down interview. You can't help but be happy around him.

Buettner has traveled the world, researching the happiest and healthiest cities for two decades. During his quest, he has lessons from the residents and environments of the five named blue zones, which produce the longest-living communities.

Following a nearly 15-year hiatus, Buettner announces Foos home of Singapore as the most recent blue zone to join the ranks. In many ways, Foo embodies the ethos of this newly recognized blue zone, which Buettner details in his new book, The Blue Zones: The Secrets for Living Longer.

With boundless enthusiasm and irrepressible energy, Foo epitomized the Singaporean ideal of success, Buettner writes in his books introduction of Singapore.

Buettner recalls Foo telling him, Singapore has given me so much, and I dont do enough to give back.

Since the early 2000s, when Gianni Pes designated Sardinia, Italy the inaugural blue zone city, Buettner set his sights on finding other cities with similar statistics and communities. Since 2009, four more blue zones have joined the ranks: Loma Linda, California; Ikaria, Greece; Okinawa, Japan; and Nicoya, Costa Rica.

Buettner calls Singapore the blue zone 2.0the next frontier of aging in his new book, which highlights much more than the enthusiasm of the residents themselves. The health data, landscape, and policy incentives have established the multicultural island of Indian, Malay, and Chinese influence as a beacon of health and happiness.

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Introducing the worlds 6th blue zone

Buettner was first intrigued by Singapore in 2005 when he wrote a cover story for National Geographic on happiness, he tells Fortune. Since then, hes met with residents and pored over data, analyzing the islands health metrics. The life expectancy has grown by 20 years since 1960, and the number of centenarians doubled in the last decade, Buettner writes in his book.

In addition to having very high life satisfaction, they were producing the longest and healthiest population, he says.

Unlike the other blue zones, whose longevity metrics stem from years of history, culture and tradition, Singapores status comes from implemented change over time.

It's an engineered blue zone, instead of one that emerged organically like the other five, Buettner says, noting how Singapore transitioned to an urban hub in the last few decades. They have manifestly produced the outcome we want.

With policies aimed at keeping people intergenerationally engaged, walking, and purchasing healthy foods, Singapore represents healthy longevity.

Transportation and exercise

In his travels, Buettner observed how Singapore's walkways protected residents from the sun, with intentional green space that make it aesthetically pleasing.

Pedestrian-focused signage covers the city, making it safe for people to travel by foot. The island also has taxation on cars and gasoline, putting money into a robust subway system where people live no more than 400 yards away from a station, he adds. Beyond the environmental benefits of public transit, people have physical exercise and connection built into their routine by walking and taking public transit.

Pedestrians are favored over the motorist when navigating your way through town, Buettner says. They're getting 10 or 20,000 steps a day without even thinking about it.

Access to healthy food

Buettner was amazed by Singapore's food shopping scene. Healthy food was subsidized, incentivizing people to buy whole foods with abundant nutrients over more highly processed foods (Buettner has yet to see this initiative implemented widely across the globe or in other blue zones).

On a systematic scale, Singapores government reduced the amount of sugar in sweetened beverages and added healthy food labels to items with limited amounts of sugar, fat, and sodium.

People are mindlessly consuming less sugar, Buettner says.

Combating loneliness

A city plays a significant role in establishing peoples sense of community. In a Harris poll conducted on behalf of Fortune earlier this year, being closer to support systems was a top reason people planned to move in the next two years.

Loneliness is largely a function of environment, Buettner says. If you live in a cul de sac in the suburbs, and especially if you don't like your neighbors, you're very unlikely to serendipitously run into someone and have a conversation.

Singapores architecture serves as an antidote to loneliness itself. People live in high rises, which reflect the populations diversity. Residents can congregate at local food vendors, markets, and outdoor spaces.

You share tables and you're interacting with the stall user, interacting with the person next to you, Buettner says. The chances you're going to run into an old friend or make a new friend are exponentially higher.

Health care

Buettner describes a hospital in Singapore as a Four Seasons Resort. The hospitals layout mirrors a luxury hotel with outdoor spaces, restaurants, and classes, bringing the wider community together, he writes. With a focus on optimizing elders healthspan by preventing chronic disease in their final years, the hospital Buettner visited has a program that dispatches nurses into the community. They help with free screenings and connect patients with healthier food if needed.

Officials have also implemented a National Steps Challenge where residents can redeem points and use them at local restaurants and shops after logging 10,000 steps per day.

Intergenerational gatherings

Singaporieans get a tax break if their aging parents live with or near them, Buettner says. It encourages families to stay close in proximity to their children and grandchildren.

Aging parents are this wonderful source of resilience, of wisdom of agricultural and culinary knowledge that we just warehouse in retirement homes, he says. Here in Singapore, partially because of some smart policy to encourage it, it's harnessed every day.

Another project called Kampung Admiralty developed in 2018 aims to connect seniors to nature and people of all generations.

The fact that we have this population that engineered health gives us a source of lessons that American policymakers ought to be paying attention to if we also want a healthy disease free population, Buettner says, who notes how 70% of Singapore residents trust their government.

The Kampung Admiralty houses an indoor park, performance centers, food courts, apartments, and a medical center; the elder care and preschool were engineered next to each other, Buettner writes.

[In the U.S.], we live in a toxic food environment and an environment that promotes a sedentary, lonely lifestyle. And that's not going to change until we start passing policies that make walking easier and making healthy food easier than junk food. And we have to stop beating the dead horse of individual responsibility, Buettner says.

While Buettner searches for blue zone contenders, he admits he'll be hard-pressed to find another organic blue zone." Blue Zone 2.0s, on the other hand, are up for grabs.

The big lesson there when it comes to connecting socially, moving more mindlessly, is for our government to think about engineering spaces that bring people who are on foot together, he says.

This story was originally featured on Fortune.com

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Bill Jordan, the president of Designer Brands Inc. and Camuto LLC, is stepping down from both positions at the footwear company, effective Dec. 1.

The DSW parent company made the announcement on Monday via an 8-K filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

More from Footwear News

The footwear industry veteran was named president of Designer Brands in June 2021 and previously served as the companys EVP and chief growth officer since Feb. 2020. Jordan first joined the company in 2006 as VP and general council, and was later promoted to positions including chief compliance officer, chief administrative officer, chief legal officer, president of Town Shoes Limited, and president of DSW Designer Shoe Warehouse.

This is the latest executive move by the company as it works toward its goal to double sales from owned brands and Camuto Group national owned and licensed brands to almost one-third of total sales by 2026.

In July, Designer Brands tapped Laura Denk as president of DSW Designer Shoe Warehouse and EVP of Designer Brands. In her new role at DBI, Denk is tasked with overseeing DSWs nearly 500 store locations across the U.S. as well as its e-commerce channel. She will also be charged with helping DSW bolster its portfolio of owned and national brands and will report to DBI CEO Doug Howe, who previously served as DSW president until being promoted to CEO in April.

Overall, the company in June posted weaker-than-expected sales in the first quarter. Net sales for the DSW-parent company decreased 10.7 percent to $742.1 million, short of analysts expectations of $754.28 million. Comparable sales decreased by 10.4 percent and adjusted net income was $14.3 million, with an adjusted diluted EPS of $0.21, which also fell short of analysts expectations.

Given the weaker than expected results, DBI lowered its full-year 2023 outlook and now expects net sales growth, excluding contributions from Keds, to be down in the mid- to high-single digits for the year, compared to previously issued guidance of down in the mid-single digits. Diluted EPS is expected in the range of $1.20 to $1.50, compared to a previously issued guidance of between $1.65 and $1.75.

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The company is expected to release its second quarter earnings on Sept. 7.

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Key Insights

Eumundi Group's estimated fair value is AU$0.99 based on Dividend Discount Model

Current share price of AU$1.15 suggests Eumundi Group is potentially trading close to its fair value

Today we will run through one way of estimating the intrinsic value of Eumundi Group Limited (ASX:EBG) 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. It may sound complicated, but actually it is quite simple!

Companies can be valued in a lot of ways, so we would point out that a DCF is not perfect for every situation. If you still have some burning questions about this type of valuation, take a look at the Simply Wall St analysis model.

View our latest analysis for Eumundi Group

Is Eumundi Group Fairly Valued?

As Eumundi Group operates in the hospitality sector, we need to calculate the intrinsic value slightly differently. Instead of using free cash flows, which are hard to estimate and often not reported by analysts in this industry, dividends per share (DPS) payments are used. Unless a company pays out the majority of its FCF as a dividend, this method will typically underestimate the value of the stock. We use the Gordon Growth Model, which assumes dividend will grow into perpetuity at a rate that can be sustained. For a number of reasons a very conservative growth rate is used that cannot exceed that of a company's Gross Domestic Product (GDP). In this case we used the 5-year average of the 10-year government bond yield (2.0%). The expected dividend per share is then discounted to today's value at a cost of equity of 9.1%. Relative to the current share price of AU$1.1, the company appears around fair value at the time of writing. 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.

Value Per Share = Expected Dividend Per Share / (Discount Rate - Perpetual Growth Rate)

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= AU$0.07 / (9.1%  2.0%)

= AU$1.0

dcf

Important Assumptions

We would point out that the most important inputs to a discounted cash flow are the discount rate and of course the actual cash flows. Part of investing is coming up with your own evaluation of a company's future performance, so try the calculation yourself and check your own assumptions. The DCF also does not consider the possible cyclicality of an industry, or a company's future capital requirements, so it does not give a full picture of a company's potential performance. Given that we are looking at Eumundi Group 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 9.1%, which is based on a levered beta of 1.413. 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 Eumundi Group

Strength

Debt is well covered by earnings.

Weakness

Earnings declined over the past year.

Dividend is low compared to the top 25% of dividend payers in the Hospitality market.

Current share price is above our estimate of fair value.

Shareholders have been diluted in the past year.

Opportunity

EBG's financial characteristics indicate limited near-term opportunities for shareholders.

Lack of analyst coverage makes it difficult to determine EBG's earnings prospects.

Threat

Debt is not well covered by operating cash flow.

Looking Ahead:

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. 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 Eumundi Group, we've compiled three relevant elements you should further examine:

Risks: Be aware that Eumundi Group is showing 7 warning signs in our investment analysis , and 3 of those make us uncomfortable... Management:Have insiders been ramping up their shares to take advantage of the market's sentiment for EBG's future outlook? Check out our management and board analysis with insights on CEO compensation and governance factors. Other High Quality Alternatives: Do you like a good all-rounder? Explore our interactive list of high quality stocks to get an idea of what else is out there you may be missing!

PS. Simply Wall St updates its DCF calculation for every Australian stock every day, so if you want to find the intrinsic value of any other stock just search here.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com.



This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.
(Reuters) - Lordstown Motors is formulating a debt repayment plan and is hopeful that it will find buyers in Chapter 11 for all or parts of its business, Bloomberg News reported, citing the electric truck manufacturer's attorney Thomas Lauria.

The company filed for bankruptcy protection in June and put itself up for sale after failing to resolve a dispute over a promised investment from Taiwan's Foxconn.

"We expect to have one-or-more purchasers," Lauria told Bloomberg.

A U.S. judge on Monday ruled out Foxconn's bid to curtail Lordstown's efforts at seeking bankruptcy protection in the U.S., marking a shot in the arm for the troubled EV manufacturer embroiled in legal disputes.

Judge Mary Walrath refused to dismiss Lordstown's bankruptcy petition. Foxconn, formally called Hon Hai Precision Industry and best known for assembling Apple's (AAPL.O) iPhones, has said Lordstown breached the investment agreement when the automaker's stock price fell below $1.

Several investor groups have also brought claims against Lordstown, alleging that the Lordstown misled consumers and investors.

The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is investigating those claims as well, and is engaged in confidential settlement talks with the regulator, Lordstown's attorney Thomas Lauria had said in a court hearing in June.

Lordstown and Foxconn did not immediately respond to Reuters' request for comment on the ruling.

(Reporting by Kanjyik Ghosh and Jahnavi Nidumolu in Bengaluru; Editing by Rashmi Aich)
A new cargo facility will be built at Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport, seen here on July 13, to support Lufthansa Cargo. (Photo: Shutterstock/The Global Guy)

Lufthansa Cargo has relocated its cargo warehouse inside the gate at Detroits main airport to improve operational efficiency and support growing international volumes.

Businesses that move freight with German flag carrier Lufthansa through Detroit will save time and be able to tender a greater variety of specialty products because cargo processing has moved to an airside building from an off-airport location, eliminating the need to shuttle goods by truck.

Avflight, the local airport services operator that handles Lufthansas cargo shipments, this month began leasing a 20,000-square-foot former aircraft hangar that was converted into a temporary warehouse and plans to develop a larger, permanent terminal to house its Lufthansa business, the companies announced Tuesday.

The relocation shortens the distance for cargo handoffs to and from aircraft, reducing operating costs and allowing Lufthansa to provide more capacity for special shipments, such as live animals, valuable cargo and hazardous materials.

Besides streamlining operations, Lufthansa is seeking a bigger facility because its import and export volumes are growing. The airline operates seven weekly passenger flights to Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport that deliver 500 tons of cargo per year. Detroit is an important destination for Lufthansa because of the large automotive industry in Michigan. Top trade partners include Germany, other nations in Europe, South Africa and Thailand. Lufthansas cargo division, which manages shipments for the airline, also transfers shipments between Detroit and Chicago by truck.

Lufthansa Airlines operates a large fleet of widebody aircraft, such as the Airbus A330. (Photo: Jim Allen/FreightWaves)

Together with Avflight, we are creating an ideal basis with a future-oriented cargo location in Detroit to further position ourselves in the market as a reliable and professional partner for our cargo customers  by investing in a modern infrastructure as well as cost- and time-efficient handling processes, said Stephanie Abeler, vice president and head of the Americas region at Lufthansa Cargo.

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Avflight has a ground lease with the airport authority allowing it to construct a new cargo facility next to the existing structure. Lufthansa Cargo will help design the quick-flow warehouse for optimal efficiency and capability to process premium products. The permanent site is tentatively scheduled to be operational by the end of 2024, Lufthansa Cargo said.

Project discussions, including the full scope and total investment, are still in the preliminary stages between Avflight, Lufthansa Cargo and the airport, said Garrett Hain, Avflights vice president of finance, in an email.

Detroit is the latest example of cargo airlines and shippers turning to secondary airports to support cargo business for better efficiency, service and cost. A report this month by researchers at DePaul University demonstrated that cargo-focused airports have outperformed large passenger gateways in terms of cargo volume during the past four years. Detroit Metro doesnt qualify as a cargo-oriented airport because it has a limited amount of freighter operations and is a Delta Air Lines hub, but the investment gives Lufthansa the ability to accommodate freighters if it chooses.

Lufthansa Cargo has a fleet of 11 Boeing 777 freighters.

Logistics companies DSV and Kuehne+Nagel are similarly making use of aircraft hangars to temporarily house their new freighter operations at Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport and Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport in Alabama, respectively, until permanent facilities are built.

Some regional airports outside major metropolitan areas also are attractive because they are closer to manufacturing areas, which reduces the need for truck transport.

Privately held Avflight, based in Ann Arbor, Michigan, owns businesses that operate 25 general aviation airports and provides ground services to airlines.

Click here for more FreightWaves and American Shipper articles by Eric Kulisch.

RECOMMENDED READING:

Cargo-focused airports outpace peers with passenger traffic

Lufthansa Cargo profits fall nearly 100% on weak shipping demand

The post Lufthansa scales up cargo operations at Detroit Metro Airport appeared first on FreightWaves.
If we want to find a stock that could multiply over the long term, what are the underlying trends we should look for? Typically, we'll want to notice a trend of growing return on capital employed (ROCE) and alongside that, an expanding base of capital employed. If you see this, it typically means it's a company with a great business model and plenty of profitable reinvestment opportunities. So when we looked at Mandalay Resources (TSE:MND) and its trend of ROCE, we really liked what we saw.

Understanding Return On Capital Employed (ROCE)

If you haven't worked with ROCE before, it measures the 'return' (pre-tax profit) a company generates from capital employed in its business. The formula for this calculation on Mandalay Resources is:

Return on Capital Employed = Earnings Before Interest and Tax (EBIT)  (Total Assets - Current Liabilities)

0.11 = US$26m  (US$271m - US$36m) (Based on the trailing twelve months to June 2023).

So, Mandalay Resources has an ROCE of 11%. On its own, that's a standard return, however it's much better than the 3.0% generated by the Metals and Mining industry.

Check out our latest analysis for Mandalay Resources

roce

In the above chart we have measured Mandalay Resources' prior ROCE against its prior performance, but the future is arguably more important. If you're interested, you can view the analysts predictions in our free report on analyst forecasts for the company.

How Are Returns Trending?

Mandalay Resources has recently broken into profitability so their prior investments seem to be paying off. About five years ago the company was generating losses but things have turned around because it's now earning 11% on its capital. Not only that, but the company is utilizing 24% more capital than before, but that's to be expected from a company trying to break into profitability. This can indicate that there's plenty of opportunities to invest capital internally and at ever higher rates, both common traits of a multi-bagger.

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One more thing to note, Mandalay Resources has decreased current liabilities to 13% of total assets over this period, which effectively reduces the amount of funding from suppliers or short-term creditors. This tells us that Mandalay Resources has grown its returns without a reliance on increasing their current liabilities, which we're very happy with.

The Bottom Line

To the delight of most shareholders, Mandalay Resources has now broken into profitability. Since the total return from the stock has been almost flat over the last five years, there might be an opportunity here if the valuation looks good. So researching this company further and determining whether or not these trends will continue seems justified.

On a final note, we've found 2 warning signs for Mandalay Resources that we think you should be aware of.

If you want to search for solid companies with great earnings, check out this free list of companies with good balance sheets and impressive returns on equity.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com.



This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.
g-stockstudio / iStock.com

Becoming an entrepreneur requires courage, preparation, big ideas and a strategic mindset. The harsh reality is that many small businesses fail, so those who aspire to own a business need to equip themselves with the necessary tools to succeed.

Grant Cardone: Nobody Becomes Wealthy Because of a Salary  Heres What You Need To Focus On Instead

Learn: What To Do If You Owe Back Taxes to the IRS

To find out what those tools are, I spoke with experts Mark Cuban and Grant Cardone, who have both achieved incredible success as entrepreneurs. Heres their best advice.

1. Become an Expert on the Industry

Learn the industry cold, Cuban said.

To succeed, you need to delve deep into your chosen industry. Gain an understanding of the industrys dynamics, trends and nuances. This expertise is a necessity for entrepreneurs, allowing them to make informed decisions in an ever-changing landscape.

2. Set Lofty Financial Targets and Goals

Cardone believes that setting high goals is the first step to achieving them.

Set financial targets that will change your life, he said. Most people have murky ideas about what they want to accomplish, and even when they get clear about it, those targets are not big enough to change anything significantly, causing the individual to give up on the target.

Barack Obamas Net Worth in 2023: How He Made His Money

3. Do the Math

No matter what your profit goal is, Cardone emphasizes the necessity of breaking it down into smaller goals.

If your goal is $1 million, do the math and understand how many prospects are required to get x number of customers to buy x products over some period of time, he said. Its all math. I do this whether the target is for $1 million or $10 billion, and it always works.

Doing the math helps you to gauge the feasibility of your goals and, if they are achievable, to chart a clear path forward.

4. Create a Culture That Encourages High Achievement

Cardone said that every entrepreneur needs to create what he calls a 10X Culture.

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Get agreement and support from those around you to do whatever it takes [to achieve success], he said. Create an unacceptable environment for coming up short.

By fostering an environment where failure to meet targets is deemed unacceptable, entrepreneurs are motivated to give their utmost to surpass expectations.

More From GOBankingRates

This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: Mark Cuban and Grant Cardone: 4 Things You Must Do Before Starting a Business
NEW YORK, Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The size of IT market in Czech Republic is set to grow by USD 2.22 million with a CAGR of 3.72%. SMEs drive growth by embracing IT solutions like cloud, Big Data, and IoT. One of the primary factors driving the growth of the IT market in the Czech Republic is the rising acceptance of IT solutions within the country's SME sector and increasing adoption of the Big Data Solutions. Businesses should leverage growth opportunities while staying competitive in a dynamic landscape with major players like Accenture, Apple, and Microsoft. To get more insights on the market methodology, download the sample report now

Technavio has announced its latest market research report titled IT Market in Czech Republic 2022-2026

IT market size in Czech Republic: Regional Analysis

The IT Market in Czech Republic has a dynamic and evolving IT landscape. With a strategic location and a rich historical backdrop, the country has positioned itself as a suitable place for technological innovation and digital transformation. The nation's SMEs are at the forefront of embracing IT solutions, driving operational efficiencies and fostering innovation through technologies like cloud computing, IoT, and Big Data. As the Czech Republic navigates the post-COVID-19 landscape, the IT market presents both opportunities and challenges, encouraging businesses to harness innovation and adapt to ever-changing technological paradigms.

Get to know more about the regional opportunities by downloading the sample report here

IT market size in Czech Republic: Vendor Offerings

Accenture Plc  It is a public company that operates on a global scale, with a robust revenue of $50,533 million and a workforce comprising approximately 624,000 employees. While its revenue from the Czech Republic's IT market, combined with its diverse offerings, contributes to its overall earnings, it doesn't stand as a pivotal revenue source for the organization. The company offers IT services such as cloud and data center, database platform, and network.

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Technavio's report analyzes the market's competitive landscape and offers information on major companies, including:

Accenture Plc

Acer Inc.

Adyen NV

Amadeus IT Group SA

Apple Inc.

AVEVA Group Plc

Capgemini Service SAS

Cisco Systems Inc.

Dassault Group

Dell Inc.

Hewlett Packard Enterprise Co.

Hexagon AB

International Business Machines Corp.

Microsoft Corp

Oracle Corp.

SAP SE

Siemens AG

Telefonaktiebolaget LM Ericsson

Temenos AG

Yandex NV

For more detailed information on market trends, drivers and challenges, buy the full report

Related Reports:

IT Professional Services Market: The IT professional services market size is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 9.09% between 2022 and 2027. The market size is forecast to increase by USD 461.56 billion. This IT professional services market report extensively covers market segmentation by type (project-oriented services, information technology outsourcing, IT supporting and training services, and enterprise cloud computing services), end-user (large enterprises, small, and medium enterprises), and geography (North America, Europe, APAC, Middle East and Africa, and South America).

IT Operation Analytics (ITOA) Market: The IT operation analytics (ITOA) market share is expected to increase by USD 45.21 billion from 2021 to 2026, and the market's growth momentum will accelerate at a CAGR of 37.21%. This IT operation analytics (ITOA) market research report provides valuable insights on the post COVID-19 impact on the market, which will help companies evaluate their business approaches. Furthermore, this report extensively covers IT operation analytics (ITOA) market segmentation by deployment (cloud and on-premise) and geography (North America, Europe, APAC, Middle East and Africa, and South America).

Table of Content:

1 Executive Summary

2 Market Landscape

3 Market Sizing

4 Historic Market Size

5 Five Forces Analysis

6 Market Segmentation by End-User

7 Market Segmentation by Type

8 Customer Landscape

9 Geographic Landscape

10 Drivers, Challenges, and Trends

11 Company Landscape

12 Company Analysis

13 Appendix

About Us

Technavio is a leading global technology research and advisory company. Their research and analysis focus on emerging market trends and provides actionable insights to help businesses identify market opportunities and develop effective strategies to optimize their market positions. With over 500 specialized analysts, Technavio's report library consists of more than 17,000 reports and counting, covering 800 technologies, spanning across 50 countries. Their client base consists of enterprises of all sizes, including more than 100 Fortune 500 companies. This growing client base relies on Technavio's comprehensive coverage, extensive research, and actionable market insights to identify opportunities in existing and potential markets and assess their competitive positions within changing market scenarios.

Contact

Technavio Research

Jesse Maida

Media & Marketing Executive

US: +1 844 364 1100

UK: +44 203 893 3200

Email: media@technavio.com

Website: www.technavio.com/

IT Market in Czech Republic 2022-2026

Cision

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/it-market-size-in-czech-republic-to-grow-by-usd-2-22-million-from-2021-to-2026--the-increased-adoption-of-it-solutions-drives-market---technavio-301911906.html

SOURCE Technavio
Rationalstat LLC

Global Medical Rehabilitation robot market has been analyzed on the basis of market segments, including on product, extremity, therapy, patient, application, end user and geography/regions (incl. North America, Latin America, Western Europe, Eastern Europe, Middle East & Africa, and Asia Pacific). The report also offers global and regional market sizing for the historical period of 2019-2022 and the forecast period of 2023-2030.

Wilmington, Delaware, Aug. 29, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Global Medical Rehabilitation Robot Market is valued at US$ 324 million in 2022 and is expected to grow at a significant CAGR of over 12% over the forecast period of 2023-2030, according to the latest market report by RationalStat

Market Definition, Market Scope, and Report Overview

A medical rehabilitation robot, often known as a rehab robot, is a robotic device that aids in the rehabilitation of people with impairments or those recovering from accidents or surgeries. These robots are used in physical therapy and rehabilitation settings to aid, support, and treat patients.

Disabilities and chronic illnesses such as stroke, spinal cord damage, Parkinson's disease, and orthopedic problems are on the rise. Medical rehabilitation robots provide therapeutic interventions and supportive devices to help patients heal, rehabilitate, and improve their functional capacities.

According to a deep-dive market assessment by RationalStat, the global medical rehabilitation robot market has been analyzed on the basis of market segments, including on product, extremity, therapy, patient, application, end user and geography/regions (incl. North America, Latin America, Western Europe, Eastern Europe, Middle East & Africa, and Asia Pacific) . The report also offers global and regional market sizing for the historical period of 2019-2022 and the forecast period of 2023-2030.

Market intelligence for the global medical rehabilitation robot market covers market sizes on the basis of market value (US$/EUR Million) and volume (Tons) by various products/services/ equipment, demand assessment across the key regions, customer sentiments, price points, cost structures, margin analysis across the value chain, financial assessments, historical and forecast data, key developments across the industry, import-export data, trade overview, components market by leading companies, etc.

In addition, the long-term sector and products/services 10-year outlook and its implications on the global medical rehabilitation robot market. It also includes the industry's current state  Production Levels, Capacity Utilization, Tech quotient, etc. Key information will be manufacturing capacity by country, installed base, import volumes, market size, key players, market size, dynamics, market data, insights, etc.

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Request A Customization: https://store.rationalstat.com/store/global-medical-rehabilitation-robot-market/#tab-ux_global_tab

Global Medical Rehabilitation Robot Market: Segmental and Market Share Analysis

On the basis of product, the therapeutics/assistive segment is anticipated to account for 74.5% of the market in 2022. The ability of these devices to assist patients in moving about while collecting sensory data.

On the basis of extremity, the upper extremities segment will account for 55% of the total market share. The creation of automatic robotic assistance devices for patients with disabilities.

On the basis of therapy, the category of limb therapy is expected to account for 60% of the total market share. Sales are predicted to rise as a result of the development of structured robotic exoskeleton systems for minimizing labor-intensive tasks.





Report Synopsis

Report Metrics Details Base Year 2022 Forecast Period 2023-2030 Base Year Market Size US$ 802 million Market Size Forecast US$ 324 million Growth Rate 12% Key Market Drivers Increasing Number of Geriatric Population and Chronic Conditions

Advancements in Robotic Technology Companies Profiled Ekso Bionics Holdings Inc.

AlterG, Inc.

Bionik Laboratories Corp.

Cyberdyne Inc.

ReWalk Robotics

Instead Technologies Ltd.

Hocoma AG

Fourier Intelligence

Tyromotion Gmbh

Toyota Motor Corporation

BeatBots LLC

Bioxtreme

Rex Bionics Inc.

LEADERS REHAB ROBOT Co. Ltd

Explore more about this report https://store.rationalstat.com/store/global-medical-rehabilitation-robot-market/#tab-ux_global_tab

Competition Analysis and Market Structure

These players adopt various strategies in order to reinforce their market share and gain a competitive edge over other competitors in the market. Mergers & acquisitions, partnerships and collaborations, and product launches are some of the strategies followed by industry players. Some of the key developments in the global medical rehabilitation robot market include,

In November 2022, H Robots, launched new cooperation for a fast-expanding robotics manufacturing business specializing in cutting-edge rehabilitation solutions. Rehabmart (Medical Device Distributor) is now selling its FDA-approved physical therapy gadget reblessTM accessible on their website rehabmart.com.

Some of the prominent players and suppliers operating and contributing significantly to the global medical rehabilitation robot market growth include Ekso Bionics Holdings Inc., AlterG, Inc., Bionik Laboratories Corp., Cyberdyne Inc., ReWalk Robotics, Instead Technologies Ltd., Hocoma AG, Fourier Intelligence, Tyromotion Gmbh, Toyota Motor Corporation, BeatBots LLC, Bioxtreme, Rex Bionics Inc., LEADERS REHAB ROBOT Co. Ltd among others.

Get A Free Sample: https://store.rationalstat.com/store/global-medical-rehabilitation-robot-market/#tab-ux_global_tab

RationalStat has segmented the global medical rehabilitation robot market based on product, extremity, therapy, patient, application, end user, and region

Global Medical Rehabilitation Robot Market Value (US$ Million), Volume (Tons), and Market Share (2019-2030) Analysis by Product Exoskeletons Therapeutic/Assistive

Global Medical Rehabilitation Robot Market Value (US$ Million), Volume (Tons), and Market Share (2019-2030) Analysis by Extremity Upper Extremity Arm Wrist Shoulder Elbow Lower Extremity

Global Medical Rehabilitation Robot Market Value (US$ Million), Volume (Tons), and Market Share (2019-2030) Analysis by Therapy Limb Mobility Gait Sensory

Global Medical Rehabilitation Robot Market Value (US$ Million), Volume (Tons), and Market Share (2019-2030) Analysis by Patient Adults Pediatric

Global Medical Rehabilitation Robot Market Value (US$ Million), Volume (Tons), and Market Share (2019-2030) Analysis by Application Neurorehabilitation Physical Rehabilitation Others

Global Medical Rehabilitation Robot Market Value (US$ Million), Volume (Tons), and Market Share (2019-2030) Analysis by End User Hospitals Wellness Centers Rehabilitation Centers Homecare

Global Medical Rehabilitation Robot Market Value (US$ Million), Volume (Tons), and Market Share (2019-2030) Analysis by Region North America Medical Rehabilitation Robot Market US Canada Latin America Medical Rehabilitation Robot Market Brazil Mexico Rest of Latin America Western Europe Medical Rehabilitation Robot Market Germany UK France Spain Italy Benelux Nordic Rest of Western Europe Eastern Europe Medical Rehabilitation Robot Market Russia Poland Hungary Other CIS Countries Rest of Eastern Europe Asia Pacific Medical Rehabilitation Robot Market China Japan India South Korea Australia ASEAN Indonesia Thailand Philippines Vietnam Malaysia Rest of ASEAN Rest of Asia Pacific Middle East & Africa Medical Rehabilitation Robot Market GCC Saudi Arabia (KSA) United Arab Emirates (UAE) Rest of the GCC South Africa Nigeria Turkey Rest of the Middle East & Africa



For more information about this report https://store.rationalstat.com/store/global-medical-rehabilitation-robot-market/

Key Questions Answered in the Medical Rehabilitation Robot Report:

What will be the market value of the global medical rehabilitation robot market by 2030?

What is the market size of the global medical rehabilitation robot market?

What are the market drivers of the global medical rehabilitation robot market?

What are the key trends in the global medical rehabilitation robot market?

Which is the leading region in the global medical rehabilitation robot market?

What are the major companies operating in the global medical rehabilitation robot market?

What are the market shares by key segments in the global medical rehabilitation robot market?

Explore Our Trending Reports

Research Methodology

RationalStat has developed a state-of-the-art research methodology to crunch numbers and provide the best possible real-time insights to clients. We combine a varied range of industry experience, data analytics, and experts viewpoint to create a research methodology for market sizing and forecasting.

RationalStat combines a mix of secondary sources as well as primary research to assess the market size and develop a forecast. Key steps involved in accurately deriving the market numbers are:

Defining the problem by understanding the type of market and data required by the client.

Data gathering and collection through relevant paid databases, publicly available sources, company reports, annual reports, surveys, and interviews.

Formulating a hypothesis to create market numbers, forecasts, influencing factors, and their relevance.

Evaluating and analyzing the data by referring to data sources utilized and leveraged.

Validating, interpreting, and finalizing the data by combining the details gathered from primary and secondary sources with the help of experienced analysts.

To get any Deep Down Insight on the Report- Raise a Query

About RationalStat LLC

RationalStat is an end-to-end global market intelligence and consulting company that provides comprehensive market research reports, customized strategy, and consulting studies. The company has sales offices in India, Mexico, and the US to support global and diversified businesses. The company has over 80 consultants and industry experts, developing more than 850 market research and industry reports for its report store annually.

RationalStat has strategic partnerships with leading data analytics and consumer research companies to cater to the clients needs. Additional services offered by the company include consumer research, country reports, risk reports, valuations and advisory, financial research, due diligence, procurement and supply chain research, data analytics, and analytical dashboards.

Contact

RationalStat LLC

Kimberly Shaw,

Content and Press Manager

sales@rationalstat.com

US Phone: +1 302 803 5429

UK Phone: +44 203-287-1245

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If you earn a lot of money, you may want to avoid these most expensive states for millionaires. Some high earners in these areas could pay income tax rates greater than 50%.

The most expensive states for millionaires tax high earners at high rates. (And if you fall into the top federal income tax bracket , the IRS will tax some of your earnings at the 37% rate.)

State income tax rates can climb over 13% in some areas, meaning that some high-earning taxpayers pay more than 50% in taxes on a portion of their income. Heres what you need to know if you expect to make $1 million in 2023.

Expensive states for millionaires ranking

To determine the most expensive states for millionaires states with the highest top personal state income tax brackets were considered (i.e., 9% or higher). While this ranking applies to taxpayers with taxable income over $1 million per year, tax rates in these states are still among the highest in the country for other high-earning taxpayers (for example, those making $250,000 per year).

California has high taxes

Not surprisingly, California takes first place as the most expensive state for millionaires. Thats because the state imposes an additional 1% surcharge on those earning over $1 million per year, and thats on top of the already high state income tax rate of 12.3%. That means the wealthiest California taxpayers can pay 13.3% on at least part of their earnings.

Hawaii is an expensive state

Hawaii is an expensive state for high earners to live in. The top income tax rate is 11%. And notably, you dont need to be a millionaire for the state to tax some of your income at that rate.

Single and married filing separately taxpayers will pay 11% on more than $200,000 of taxable income.

Heads of household pay the 11% tax rate on more than $300,000 of taxable income.

Joint filers pay 11% on more than $400,000 of income.

Tax in New York

Its no surprise that New York taxes high earners at one of the highest rates in the U.S. The top income tax bracket in the state is 10.9%. However, only taxpayers with taxable incomes greater than $25 million fall into this bracket. If your taxable income falls between $1 million and $25 million, you can expect to be subject to a tax rate of anywhere between 6.85% and 10.3%, which is still high compared to most other states.

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New York City imposes an additional income tax, which can reach 3.876%

This means millionaires in New York City could pay an income tax rate of 14.776%. If NYC was its own state, it would have taken the number one spot on this list.

New Jersey millionaire tax

At 10.75%, New Jersey taxpayers with more than $1 million in taxable income can expect to hand over a good chunk of change to the state. This top state income tax rate used to only apply to earners with taxable income exceeding $5 million, but it now applies to taxpayers making over $1 million.

If your taxable income exceeds $500,000 you can still expect to pay an 8.97% income tax rate in New Jersey.

New Jersey also has amansion tax. This is an additional 1% tax imposed on real estate sales exceeding $1 million.

Washington D.C. income tax

Although Washington D.C. isnt a state, it earns a spot on this list. Thats because you will pay a 10.75% on taxable income over $1 million in the District of Columbia . And the tax rates arent much better for six-digit earners.

Taxpayers in Washington D.C pay an 8.5% tax rate on taxable income over $60,000.

You are subject to a 9.25% tax rate on taxable income over $250,000.

The District of Columbia imposes a 9.75% tax rate on taxable income over $500,000.

Oregon has high income taxes

You dont have to be a millionaire to fall into Oregons top income tax bracket of 9.9%. Single filers are subject to this tax rate with taxable income exceeding $125,000 (more than $250,000 for joint filers). But even taxpayers with lower incomes are subject to high-income tax rates in Oregon .

Single filers with $10,200 or more of taxable income pay an 8.75% tax rate.

Joint filers with $20,400 or more of taxable income pay an 8.75% tax rate.

Minnesota income tax rates

Minnesotas top income tax rate is 9.85%, and this rate applies to some taxpayers making far less than $1 million each year. If youre married and filing separately in Minnesota , you will fall into this top tax bracket if your taxable income exceeds $152,485.

Single filers will pay a 9.85% state income tax rate on taxable income over $183,340.

Head of household filers will fall into the top tax bracket with a taxable income over $243,720.

Joint filers with taxable income over $304,970 are subject to a 9.85% tax rate.

Massachusetts millionaire tax

Massachusetts has a flat income tax rate of 5%, which is not high compared to most other states. But the Bay State still earns its place on this list due to voter approval of a so-called "millionaire's tax" last year.

The Fair Share Amendment imposes an additional 4% tax on income over $1 million per year, and the new tax is already in effect. That means Massachusetts millionaires can now face a 9% personal income tax rate.

Other expensive states for millionaires

Depending on how millionaires make and handle their money, some states may prove more expensive choices. One of these is Washington, which is a state with no income tax. However, Kiplinger previously reported about the 7% Washington capital gains tax that applies to the sale or exchange of certain long-term assets exceeding $250,000. That means some high earners in Washington could be subject to the capital gains tax.

Additionally, some states with lower income tax rates can be very expensive for your future millionaire heirs, thanks to costly death taxes .

For example, Pennsylvania has a flat income tax rate of 3.07%, but the Commonwealths inheritance tax rate can reach as high as 15%.

And Maryland has an estate tax on estates valued over $5 million and a 10% inheritance tax.

There are other states with inheritance and estate taxes too. And dont forget these state taxes are in addition to any federal taxes millionaires are required to pay. Where you live and do business could determine how many of your millions you can keep.
Long-established in the Travel & Leisure industry, Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd (NYSE:NCLH) has enjoyed a stellar reputation. It has recently witnessed a surge of 1.77%, juxtaposed with a three-month change of 16.85%. However, fresh insights from the GuruFocus Score Rating hint at potential headwinds. Notably, its diminished rankings in financial strength, growth, and valuation suggest that the company might not live up to its historical performance. Join us as we dive deep into these pivotal metrics to unravel the evolving narrative of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd.

Is Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd (NCLH) Set to Underperform? Analyzing the Factors Limiting Growth

Understanding the GF Score

The GF Score is a stock performance ranking system developed by GuruFocus using five aspects of valuation, which has been found to be closely correlated to the long-term performances of stocks by backtesting from 2006 to 2021. The stocks with a higher GF Score generally generate higher returns than those with a lower GF Score. Therefore, when picking stocks, investors should invest in companies with high GF Scores. The GF Score ranges from 0 to 100, with 100 as the highest rank.

Based on the above method, GuruFocus assigned Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd the GF Score of 57 out of 100, which signals poor future outperformance potential.

Company Snapshot: Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd

Norwegian Cruise Line is the world's third-largest cruise company by berths (at more than 60,000), operating 30 ships across three brands (Norwegian, Oceania, and Regent Seven Seas), offering both freestyle and luxury cruising. The company had redeployed its entire fleet as of May 2022. With seven passenger vessels on order among its brands through 2028 (representing 19,000 incremental berths), Norwegian is increasing capacity faster than its peers, expanding its brand globally. Norwegian sails to around 700 global destinations.

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Is Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd (NCLH) Set to Underperform? Analyzing the Factors Limiting Growth

Financial Strength Analysis

Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd's financial strength indicators present some concerning insights about the company's balance sheet health. The company's interest coverage ratio of 0, positions it worse than 0% of 559 companies in the Travel & Leisure industry. This ratio highlights potential challenges the company might face when handling its interest expenses on outstanding debt. It's worth noting that the esteemed investor Benjamin Graham typically favored companies with an interest coverage ratio of at least five.

The company's Altman Z-Scoreis just -0.21, which is below the distress zone of 1.81. This suggests that the company may face financial distress over the next few years. Additionally, the company's low cash-to-debt ratio at 0.07 indicates a struggle in handling existing debt levels.

The company's debt-to-equity ratio is 903.85, which is worse than 100% of 667 companies in the Travel & Leisure industry. A high debt-to-equity ratio suggests over-reliance on borrowing and vulnerability to market fluctuations. Additionally, the company's debt-to-Ebitda ratio is 21.12, which is above Joel Tillinghast's warning level of 4 and is worse than 93.19% of 573 companies in the Travel & Leisure industry. Tillinghast said in his book Big Money Think's Small: Biases, Blind Spots, and Smarter Investing that a high debt-to-Ebitda ratio can be a red flag unless tangible assets cover the debt.

Growth Prospects

A lack of significant growth is another area where Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd seems to falter, as evidenced by the company's low Growth rank. The company's revenue has declined by -27.2 per year over the past three years, which underperforms worse than 85.57% of 769 companies in the Travel & Leisure industry. Stagnating revenues may pose concerns in a fast-evolving market.

Lastly, Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd predictability rank is just one star out of five, adding to investor uncertainty regarding revenue and earnings consistency.

Is Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd (NCLH) Set to Underperform? Analyzing the Factors Limiting Growth

Conclusion

Given the company's financial strength, profitability, and growth metrics, the GuruFocus Score Rating highlights the firm's unparalleled position for potential underperformance. While Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd has a strong brand and a significant market presence, its financial health and growth prospects raise concerns about its ability to outperform in the future. Investors should consider these factors when making investment decisions.

GuruFocus Premium members can find more companies with strong GF Scores using the following screener link: GF Score Screen

This article first appeared on GuruFocus.


Oman Ramps Up Crypto Investments to Become Digital Hub in the Middle East

The Crypto Projects In Oman Fit Into A Larger Trend Of Middle Eastern Countries Accepting Cryptocurrencies

The Sultanate of Oman, strategically positioned on the Arabian Peninsula's southeastern coast, is intensifying its integration of cryptocurrencies, bolstered by a series of multi-million dollar investments this month.

As part of its strategy to position itself as a digital hub in a competitive region, Oman has announced significant investments in cryptocurrency mining operations.

In August, the government of Oman disclosed intentions for roughly $800 million in new investments in cryptocurrency mining. Notably, on August 23, a $300 million agreement with the Phoenix Group in Abu Dhabi was announced. With Green Data City, Oman's first authorized crypto-mining organization, this partnership seeks to create a 150 megawatt crypto-mining farm. The farm will be open for business the following year. Muscat had already approved a $370 million facility run by Exahertz International that was expected to house 15,000 additional mining machines by October.

Said Hamoud al-Maawali, Oman's Minister of Transport, Communications, and Information Technology, lauded these investments as a "major milestone" in boosting the nation's digital economy.

The crypto projects in Oman fit into a larger trend of Middle Eastern countries accepting cryptocurrencies. Oman's actions reflect the growing acceptance of cryptocurrencies in countries with a Muslim majority, despite ongoing concerns about whether they are compatible with the tenets of Islamic banking. The Middle East and North Africa were identified by Chainalysis as the fastest-growing crypto markets in 2022, indicating the region's rapidly expanding cryptocurrency marketplaces.

The United Arab Emirates stands out as a crypto-friendly hub despite different legislative approaches within Muslim-majority nations, while other nations like Turkey have complex policies that permit trading but limit usage for payments.
The most talked about and market moving research calls around Wall Street are now in one place. Here are today's research calls that investors need to know, as compiled by The Fly.



Top 5 Upgrades:

UBS upgraded Oracle (ORCL) to Buy from Neutral with a price target of $140, up from $120. The firm is increasingly confident that Oracle "has carved out an under-appreciated edge" in terms of its GPU capacity as well as its cloud architecture, enough to attract new customers and drive cloud usage.

Wells Fargo upgraded Rockwell Automation (ROK) to Equal Weight from Underweight with a price target of $317, up from $290. The firm cites 2024 earnings growth potential and relative valuation.

Jefferies upgraded Forward Air (FWRD) to Buy from Hold with a price target of $85, down from $110. The significant negative share price reaction post the announcement of the Omni Logistics merger "is excessive," the firm argues.

Wolfe Research upgraded 3M (MMM) to Peer Perform from Underperform without a price target. A Combat Arms settlement for $5.5B "would be about as good as could have been expected, and would better define the risk tail," the firm says.
Key Insights

Institutions' substantial holdings in Philip Morris International implies that they have significant influence over the company's share price

A total of 14 investors have a majority stake in the company with 51% ownership

Ownership research along with analyst forecasts data help provide a good understanding of opportunities in a stock

A look at the shareholders of Philip Morris International Inc. (NYSE:PM) can tell us which group is most powerful. We can see that institutions own the lion's share in the company with 80% ownership. Put another way, the group faces the maximum upside potential (or downside risk).

Given the vast amount of money and research capacities at their disposal, institutional ownership tends to carry a lot of weight, especially with individual investors. Therefore, a good portion of institutional money invested in the company is usually a huge vote of confidence on its future.

In the chart below, we zoom in on the different ownership groups of Philip Morris International.

See our latest analysis for Philip Morris International

What Does The Institutional Ownership Tell Us About Philip Morris International?

Institutions typically measure themselves against a benchmark when reporting to their own investors, so they often become more enthusiastic about a stock once it's included in a major index. We would expect most companies to have some institutions on the register, especially if they are growing.

We can see that Philip Morris International does have institutional investors; and they hold a good portion of the company's stock. This suggests some credibility amongst professional investors. But we can't rely on that fact alone since institutions make bad investments sometimes, just like everyone does. If multiple institutions change their view on a stock at the same time, you could see the share price drop fast. It's therefore worth looking at Philip Morris International's earnings history below. Of course, the future is what really matters.

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Since institutional investors own more than half the issued stock, the board will likely have to pay attention to their preferences. We note that hedge funds don't have a meaningful investment in Philip Morris International. Our data shows that Capital Research and Management Company is the largest shareholder with 18% of shares outstanding. In comparison, the second and third largest shareholders hold about 8.8% and 6.1% of the stock.

Looking at the shareholder registry, we can see that 51% of the ownership is controlled by the top 14 shareholders, meaning that no single shareholder has a majority interest in the ownership.

While it makes sense to study institutional ownership data for a company, it also makes sense to study analyst sentiments to know which way the wind is blowing. Quite a few analysts cover the stock, so you could look into forecast growth quite easily.

Insider Ownership Of Philip Morris International

While the precise definition of an insider can be subjective, almost everyone considers board members to be insiders. The company management answer to the board and the latter should represent the interests of shareholders. Notably, sometimes top-level managers are on the board themselves.

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 information suggests that Philip Morris International Inc. insiders own under 1% of the company. 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$232m worth of shares (at current prices). Arguably recent buying and selling is just as important to consider. You can click here to see if insiders have been buying or selling.

General Public Ownership

The general public-- including retail investors -- own 19% 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:

I find it very interesting to look at who exactly owns a company. But to truly gain insight, we need to consider other information, too. For example, we've discovered 2 warning signs for Philip Morris International that you should be aware of before investing here.

If you are like me, you may want to think about whether this company will grow or shrink. Luckily, you can check this free report showing analyst forecasts for its future.

NB: Figures in this article are calculated using data from the last twelve months, which refer to the 12-month period ending on the last date of the month the financial statement is dated. This may not be consistent with full year annual report figures.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com.



This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.
kali9 / Getty Images

Having a robust plan for passing on wealth is essential to ensure that your assets are distributed to your wishes, and its even more important to do so when you have a more complex family situation. Tasha Dickinson, a partner at Day Pitney in West Palm Beach, Florida, said that estate disputes are particularly common when stepchildren are involved, especially regarding real estate assets.

Im a Millionaire: Why Im Not Passing Generational Wealth to My Kids

Find Out: How To Save $200 on Your Grocery Bill Every Month

Dickinson, who works with high-net-worth individuals in planning their estates, notes that estate planning for blended families is complex  there are a number of additional issues unique to these families that must be addressed in the estate plan in order to mitigate litigation. Heres what she said needs to be considered when planning an estate that involves children from a previous marriage.

Plan With the Possibility of Disagreements in Mind

Dickinson notes that when you are the tie that binds a blended family together, you should be prepared for fractures to occur when you die. You need to keep this in mind when creating your estate plan.

The guiding premise in this area is that the decedent parent is the glue, she said. Without that person, any fissures in relationships will grow and this is the recipe for disaster. Relationships between blended family members rarely improve in this situation. Clients who acknowledge this and plan accordingly typically have a more seamless transfer of their assets than others.

See: How To Pass Generational Wealth Tax Free

Consider Putting an Impartial Third-Party in Charge

When choosing guardians and executors, Dickinson recommends selecting someone outside of the family.

The best option is to name someone who is independent to be in charge, she said.

If you do want to keep these roles within the family, assign them wisely.

For families who insist on having family members from both sides of the family involved in these types of roles, it is best to have equal representation from both sides of the family, along with an independent person to step in to make decisions in the event that the two family sides cannot agree, Dickinson said. With a carefully drafted estate plan, however, these types of issues can be mitigated so that there arent inherent conflicts between family members.

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Minimize Shared Interests

How you distribute your assets is up to you, but Dickinson recommends that you do not make any arrangements where an asset is shared with both your current spouse and children from a previous marriage.

Sometimes that means that the division of assets is equitable and sometimes that is not the case, she said.

Dickinson said that in an attempt to be equitable, some people will want to leave an asset, such as a piece of real estate, to both a surviving spouse and descendants from a prior marriage, but she does not recommend this.

For example, if I draft a very common type of plan where the assets go into a trust for the benefit of a surviving spouse during his/her lifetime, and direct that the assets go to the clients children from a prior marriage at the surviving spouses death, I have, by definition, bound the surviving spouse and the descendants from the prior marriage together financially for the rest of the surviving spouses life, she said.

There is no way around that the surviving spouse and the descendants have divergent interests in that the spouse benefits from more distributions from the trust and the descendants benefit from fewer distributions, Dickinson said. Add in children from a prior marriage of the surviving spouse who have an interest in maximizing what their mother/father can give them at death, and there is suddenly a real dispute over distributions, how the assets are invested, who is in charge, etc.

This is most certainly not your intent when you create this arrangement, but it is common.

Unfortunately, when there is a dispute like this, the intent of the settlor often doesnt always prevail, so it is best to try to avoid this scenario altogether, Dickinson said. Note that the situation can be further complicated if the client owns certain types of assets, like family-run businesses, especially ones that one or more of the children may be involved in, or certain assets that have been held by the family over a long period of time.

Talk To All of Your Family Members About Your Wishes

The best way to avoid any disputes is to be clear about your intentions with all members of both of your families.

Those who communicate their intent and expectations to family members often mitigate the chance of litigation, Dickinson said. What clients should not do is assume that those who are left behind will work it out. Ive been involved in many litigations that prove that this strategy does not work.

More From GOBankingRates

This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: How To Plan for a Generational Wealth Transfer When You Have a Blended Family
When a single insider purchases stock, it is typically not a major deal. However, when multiple insiders purchase stock, like in ITM Power Plc's (LON:ITM) instance, it's good news for shareholders.

While we would never suggest that investors should base their decisions solely on what the directors of a company have been doing, logic dictates you should pay some attention to whether insiders are buying or selling shares.

View our latest analysis for ITM Power

ITM Power Insider Transactions Over The Last Year

The insider Graham Cooley made the biggest insider purchase in the last 12 months. That single transaction was for UK201k worth of shares at a price of UK1.19 each. That means that an insider was happy to buy shares at above the current price of UK0.90. It's very possible they regret the purchase, but it's more likely they are bullish about the company. In our view, the price an insider pays for shares is very important. It is generally more encouraging if they paid above the current price, as it suggests they saw value, even at higher levels.

ITM Power insiders may have bought shares in the last year, but they didn't sell any. You can see the insider transactions (by companies and individuals) over the last year depicted in the chart below. If you click on the chart, you can see all the individual transactions, including the share price, individual, and the date!

There are plenty of other companies that have insiders buying up shares. You probably do not want to miss this free list of growing companies that insiders are buying.

Does ITM Power Boast High Insider Ownership?

Looking at the total insider shareholdings in a company can help to inform your view of whether they are well aligned with common shareholders. I reckon it's a good sign if insiders own a significant number of shares in the company. Insiders own 4.6% of ITM Power shares, worth about UK26m. This level of insider ownership is good but just short of being particularly stand-out. It certainly does suggest a reasonable degree of alignment.

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What Might The Insider Transactions At ITM Power Tell Us?

It doesn't really mean much that no insider has traded ITM Power shares in the last quarter. But insiders have shown more of an appetite for the stock, over the last year. Insiders own shares in ITM Power and we see no evidence to suggest they are worried about the future. So while it's helpful to know what insiders are doing in terms of buying or selling, it's also helpful to know the risks that a particular company is facing. For example - ITM Power has 2 warning signs we think you should be aware of.

But note: ITM Power may not be the best stock to buy. So take a peek at this free list of interesting companies with high ROE and low debt.

For the purposes of this article, insiders are those individuals who report their transactions to the relevant regulatory body. We currently account for open market transactions and private dispositions, but not derivative transactions.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com.



This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.
Many The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. (NYSE:GS) insiders ditched their stock over the past year, which may be of interest to the company's shareholders. When evaluating insider transactions, knowing whether insiders are buying versus if they selling is usually more beneficial, as the latter can be open to many interpretations. However, when multiple insiders sell stock over a specific duration, shareholders should take notice as that could possibly be a red flag.

While insider transactions are not the most important thing when it comes to long-term investing, we would consider it foolish to ignore insider transactions altogether.

See our latest analysis for Goldman Sachs Group

Goldman Sachs Group Insider Transactions Over The Last Year

In the last twelve months, the biggest single sale by an insider was when the President & COO, John Waldron, sold US$5.2m worth of shares at a price of US$387 per share. While insider selling is a negative, to us, it is more negative if the shares are sold at a lower price. The good news is that this large sale was at well above current price of US$326. So it may not shed much light on insider confidence at current levels.

Insiders in Goldman Sachs Group didn't buy any shares in the last year. You can see the insider transactions (by companies and individuals) over the last year depicted in the chart below. If you click on the chart, you can see all the individual transactions, including the share price, individual, and the date!

If you like to buy stocks that insiders are buying, rather than selling, then you might just love this free list of companies. (Hint: insiders have been buying them).

Goldman Sachs Group Insiders Are Selling The Stock

Over the last three months, we've seen significant insider selling at Goldman Sachs Group. Specifically, Chairman & CEO David Solomon ditched US$5.0m worth of shares in that time, and we didn't record any purchases whatsoever. In light of this it's hard to argue that all the insiders think that the shares are a bargain.

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Insider Ownership

Many investors like to check how much of a company is owned by insiders. We usually like to see fairly high levels of insider ownership. Goldman Sachs Group insiders own about US$613m worth of shares (which is 0.5% of the company). I like to see this level of insider ownership, because it increases the chances that management are thinking about the best interests of shareholders.

So What Do The Goldman Sachs Group Insider Transactions Indicate?

An insider hasn't bought Goldman Sachs Group stock in the last three months, but there was some selling. And even if we look at the last year, we didn't see any purchases. While insiders do own a lot of shares in the company (which is good), our analysis of their transactions doesn't make us feel confident about the company. So these insider transactions can help us build a thesis about the stock, but it's also worthwhile knowing the risks facing this company. Every company has risks, and we've spotted 2 warning signs for Goldman Sachs Group you should know about.

Of course, you might find a fantastic investment by looking elsewhere. So take a peek at this free list of interesting companies.

For the purposes of this article, insiders are those individuals who report their transactions to the relevant regulatory body. We currently account for open market transactions and private dispositions, but not derivative transactions.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com.



This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.
In the last year, many Micron Technology, Inc. (NASDAQ:MU) insiders sold a substantial stake in the company which may have sparked shareholders' attention. When evaluating insider transactions, knowing whether insiders are buying versus if they selling is usually more beneficial, as the latter can be open to many interpretations. However, if numerous insiders are selling, shareholders should investigate more.

While we would never suggest that investors should base their decisions solely on what the directors of a company have been doing, we do think it is perfectly logical to keep tabs on what insiders are doing.

See our latest analysis for Micron Technology

The Last 12 Months Of Insider Transactions At Micron Technology

The Executive Vice President of Global Operations, Manish Bhatia, made the biggest insider sale in the last 12 months. That single transaction was for US$3.2m worth of shares at a price of US$63.29 each. So it's clear an insider wanted to take some cash off the table, even below the current price of US$65.31. When an insider sells below the current price, it suggests that they considered that lower price to be fair. That makes us wonder what they think of the (higher) recent valuation. Please do note, however, that sellers may have a variety of reasons for selling, so we don't know for sure what they think of the stock price. This single sale was just 16% of Manish Bhatia's stake.

Insiders in Micron Technology didn't buy any shares in the last year. You can see a visual depiction of insider transactions (by companies and individuals) over the last 12 months, below. If you click on the chart, you can see all the individual transactions, including the share price, individual, and the date!

If you are like me, then you will not want to miss this free list of growing companies that insiders are buying.

Insiders At Micron Technology Have Sold Stock Recently

Over the last three months, we've seen significant insider selling at Micron Technology. In total, insiders sold US$6.7m worth of shares in that time, and we didn't record any purchases whatsoever. This may suggest that some insiders think that the shares are not cheap.

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Insider Ownership

Another way to test the alignment between the leaders of a company and other shareholders is to look at how many shares they own. Usually, the higher the insider ownership, the more likely it is that insiders will be incentivised to build the company for the long term. Micron Technology insiders own about US$175m worth of shares (which is 0.2% of the company). I like to see this level of insider ownership, because it increases the chances that management are thinking about the best interests of shareholders.

So What Do The Micron Technology Insider Transactions Indicate?

Insiders haven't bought Micron Technology stock in the last three months, but there was some selling. Looking to the last twelve months, our data doesn't show any insider buying. The company boasts high insider ownership, but we're a little hesitant, given the history of share sales. So these insider transactions can help us build a thesis about the stock, but it's also worthwhile knowing the risks facing this company. While conducting our analysis, we found that Micron Technology has 1 warning sign and it would be unwise to ignore this.

If you would prefer to check out another company -- one with potentially superior financials -- then do not miss this free list of interesting companies, that have HIGH return on equity and low debt.

For the purposes of this article, insiders are those individuals who report their transactions to the relevant regulatory body. We currently account for open market transactions and private dispositions, but not derivative transactions.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com.



This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.
VANCOUVER, BC, Aug. 29, 2023 /CNW/ - Reconnaissance Energy Africa Ltd. (the "Company" or "ReconAfrica") (TSXV: RECO) (OTCQX: RECAF) (Frankfurt: 0XD) announces the appointment of Iman Hill as a new independent director to the Board of Directors, effective August 29, 2023.

ReconAfrica Logo (CNW Group/Reconnaissance Energy Africa Ltd.)

Ms. Hill joins the Board with over 25 years of senior oil & gas experience with extensive expertise in the technical and commercial aspects of the industry, as well Iman has a strong commitment to HSE, Sustainability and Energy Transition. Iman is a petroleum engineer and has held senior leadership roles at BP, Shell, BG, among others, during her career. She brings vast proficiency to the Board from her experience gained in North and West Africa, the Middle East, South America and the Far East. She previously served as CEO of The International Oil & Gas Producers Association and is an independent director of United Oil & Gas (AIM listed). Previously she has served as a director of DHT Holdings Inc., Outokumpu, and EMGS.

"We are delighted to welcome Ms. Hill as our new independent director," said Craig Steinke, Chair of the Board of Directors of the Company. "As a former senior energy executive, she brings deep industry experience, and we look forward to gaining her valuable perspectives as a Board member."

Brian Reinsborough, President and CEO of the Company stated: "We are pleased to have such a qualified professional join our Board at this critical stage of development. Ms. Hill's experience in the African energy sector will be invaluable to the Board as we build out our business and grow the Company. I look forward to working with Ms. Hill as we execute our growth strategy."

About ReconAfrica

ReconAfrica is a Canadian oil and gas company engaged in the opening of the newly discovered deep Kavango Sedimentary Basin in the Kalahari Desert of northeastern Namibia and northwestern Botswana, where the Company holds petroleum licenses comprising ~8 million contiguous acres. In all aspects of its operations ReconAfrica is committed to minimal disturbance of habitat in line with international standards and will implement environmental and social best practices in all of its project areas.

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Neither the TSXV nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSXV) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements:

Certain statements contained in this press release constitute forward-looking information under applicable Canadian, United States and other applicable securities laws, rules and regulations, including, without limitation, statements with respect to the Company's commitment to minimal disturbance of habitat, in line with best international standards and its implementation of environmental and social best practices in all of its project areas. These statements relate to future events or future performance. The use of any of the words "could", "intend", "expect", "believe", "will", "projected", "estimated" and similar expressions and statements relating to matters that are not historical facts are intended to identify forward-looking information and are based on ReconAfrica's current belief or assumptions as to the outcome and timing of such future events. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as the Company's actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements as a result of the factors discussed in the "Risk Factors" section in the Company's annual information form dated June 20, 2023, available under the Company's profile at www.sedarplus.ca. Actual future results may differ materially. Various assumptions or factors are typically applied in drawing conclusions or making the forecasts or projections set out in forward-looking information. Those assumptions and factors are based on information currently available to ReconAfrica. The forward-looking information contained in this release is made as of the date hereof and ReconAfrica undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable securities laws. Because of the risks, uncertainties and assumptions contained herein, investors should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. The foregoing statements expressly qualify any forward-looking information contained herein.

SOURCE Reconnaissance Energy Africa Ltd.

Cision

View original content to download multimedia: http://www.newswire.ca/en/releases/archive/August2023/29/c9320.html
Rite Aid is reportedly preparing to file for bankruptcy to address a slew of opioid lawsuits.

Philadelphia-based Rite Aids stock price dipped more than 50% Friday after the reports on the pending bankruptcy filing were published by The Wall Street Journal and Bloomberg, citing people familiar with the matter.The Chapter 11 filing would allow the company to restructure its more than $3 billion debt load and help it address lawsuits alleging the company filled hundreds of thousands of opioid prescriptions unlawfully.

When asked for comment on the reports, Rite Aid spokesperson Joy Errico said we do not comment on rumors or speculation.

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - AUGUST 28: A Rite Aid store stands in Brooklyn on August 28, 2023 in New York City. Rite Aid, a national chain retail pharmacy and convenience store with thousands of locations across the country, is reportedly preparing to file for Chapter 11 bankruptcy as it faces increasing financial stress related to opioid lawsuits and other financial pressures. (Photo by Spencer Platt/Getty Images)

What is the Rite Aid opioid scandal?

Rite Aid is facing lawsuits alleging the company helped fuel the countrys opioid epidemic by knowingly filling prescriptions for painkillers that did not meet legal requirements.

The Justice Department filed a civil lawsuit against the company earlier this year, claiming that it violated the Controlled Substances Act by repeatedly filling prescriptions that had obvious red flags.

The Journal reports that the company also faces more than a thousand federal lawsuits that were consolidated in Ohio and other pending litigation in state courts.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says the rise in U.S. opioid overdose deaths can be tied to the uptick in opioid prescriptions starting in the 1990s. Drug overdose deaths from prescription opioids rose jumped from 3,442 in 1999 to 16,706 in 2021, according to data from the National Institute on Drug Abuse.

Why would Rite Aid file for bankruptcy?

Rite Aid has yet to agree on a settlement with the opioid plaintiffs to resolve liabilities in a potential bankruptcy filing, according to the Journal. A Chapter 11 filing would pause those lawsuits and allow the company to consolidate the claims.

It's one-stop shopping, said Bruce Markell, a bankruptcy law professor at Northwesterns Pritzker School of Law. Otherwise they would have to go into something like the multi-district litigation  with lots of different trials.

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Pharmaceutical companies including Purdue Pharma, Mallinckrodt and Endo Pharmaceuticals have already reached settlements for similar opioid-related claims in bankruptcy.

The downside of it, obviously, is the victims who are hurt get a limited day in court if they get a day in court at all, Markell said. They don't get to plead their case before a jury.

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - AUGUST 28: A Rite Aid store stands in Brooklyn on August 28, 2023 in New York City. Rite Aid, a national chain retail pharmacy and convenience store with thousands of locations across the country, is reportedly preparing to file for Chapter 11 bankruptcy as it faces increasing financial stress related to opioid lawsuits and other financial pressures. (Photo by Spencer Platt/Getty Images)

A bankruptcy filing could also impose a hard cap on Ride Aids aggregate liability exposure, said Ralph Brubaker, a law professor at the University of Illinois.

Companies are becoming very aggressive in using bankruptcy to try to get that hard cap on their liability, even if the litigation is not too much to handle, he said.

Brubaker pointed to Johnson & Johnson as a recent example. Its attempt to settle lawsuits from people claiming its talc-based powder caused cancer in bankrupcy court was dismissed by a federal judge earlier this year because the company was determined not to be in financial distress.

What does this mean for Rite Aid customers?

With more than 2,000 retail pharmacy locations across 17 states, Rite Aid is among the largest pharmacy chains in the country. But customers wont have to worry about a potential bankruptcy filing upending their day-to-day interactions with the company.

The Chapter 11 process is fairly invisible as far as customers are concerned, Brubaker said. The whole point of the Chapter 11 processes is to preserve the business operations and the value of that ongoing business to the greatest extent possible so that the payout to the claimants can be as large as possible.

Markell said regular customers can expect their interactions with Rite Aid to continue as normal should the company file for bankruptcy.

Rite Aid has every incentive to continue to operate and serve its customers the way it has in the past, he said. If I had a long-term prescription at Rite Aid, I might not change it if they filed. If Rite Aid was the closest pharmacy for where I go to get band-aids, I wouldn't stop doing that.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Why Rite Aid could be filing for bankruptcy
Artificial intelligence (AI) is disrupting virtually every sector, with Next Move Strategy Consulting predicting robust growth in the market over the next decade. The AI market is valued at approximately $100 billion and is projected to increase 20 times to reach nearly $2 trillion by 2030.

AI already has begun to revolutionize industries such as healthcare, finance, transportation and manufacturing. By leveraging machine learning algorithms, natural language processing, computer vision and other AI techniques, organizations can automate processes, enhance efficiency, and uncover valuable insights from vast amounts of data.

AI has the ability to augment human capabilities rather than replace them entirely. By automating repetitive and mundane tasks, AI frees up human resources to focus on more creative and strategic endeavors. This symbiotic relationship between humans and AI can lead to increased productivity, improved decision-making and the development of new opportunities.

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AI In Healthcare

COVID-19 acted as a catalyst for the growth of artificial intelligence in the healthcare industry, both during and after the pandemic crisis. The unique challenges posed by the pandemic have highlighted the potential of AI technologies in various aspects of healthcare delivery, ranging from diagnostics and treatment to patient care and operational efficiency.

This comes as AI has been instrumental in developing vaccines and treatments. Machine learning algorithms have been employed to analyze vast amounts of data, including genomic sequences and clinical trial results, to accelerate the discovery and optimization of potential therapeutics.

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In addition to diagnostics and treatment, AI has contributed to improving patient care during the pandemic. While the global healthcare system scrambled to deal with the pandemic, other aspects of healthcare, particularly nursing homes and elder care facilities faced tremendous operational hurdles amid unprecedented labor shortages and nationwide lockdowns.

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Exploring The AI Robot Frontier

Looking beyond the pandemic, AI is poised to continue its growth trajectory in healthcare, addressing the limitations in the current system. The lessons learned from using AI during the crisis have demonstrated the value of these technologies in improving healthcare outcomes, reducing costs and enhancing patient experiences. AI has the potential to streamline administrative tasks, optimize clinical workflows and support personalized medicine by analyzing large datasets and identifying patterns that can guide treatment decisions.

Nadia Magnenat Thalmann, a robotics expert from the University of Geneva, stated that robots could be more effective caregivers than humans because they have 24-hour availability. She was the inspiration behind Nadine, an AI-powered social robot with lifelike gestures and expressions that has the potential to play a significant role in caring for the sick and elderly.

She (Nadine) has time 24 hours a day. The others have no time, Thalmann said during a conference hosted by the International Telecommunication Union in Geneva.

Given the growing competition for nurses and caregivers exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, some believe that humanoid robots could eventually alleviate staffing shortages in care homes.

Nadine demonstrated its conversational abilities by recounting its interaction with residents at a nursing home in Singapore, where it engaged in activities such as talking, singing and playing bingo. The robot expressed its enjoyment in helping the elderly and its belief that robots can serve as valuable assets in assisting vulnerable people. Other robots showcased at the event included PARO, a baby seal robot designed to aid patients with dementia and Parkinsons disease as well as nursing assistant Grace.

Recently, Nadine received an upgrade with the GPT-3 AI model, which has enhanced its conversational and interactive skills, enabling it to express more complex ideas. Nadine expressed gratitude to Thalmann for creating it and expressed pride in being her creation.

Challenges Ahead

It is important to address certain barriers associated with the integration of AI in healthcare. These include ensuring data privacy and security, validating AI algorithms for safety and efficacy, addressing biases and ethical considerations and fostering trust between healthcare professionals and AI systems. Overcoming these challenges will be crucial for the widespread adoption and acceptance of AI in healthcare in the post-COVID era.

See more on startup investing from Benzinga:

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This article Robot Companions in Care Homes: The Future of Elderly Care originally appeared on Benzinga.com

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 2023 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved.
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Chicago, Aug. 29, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The global Septic Tanks Market is projected to USD 5.5 billion by 2027 from an estimated USD 4.6 billion in 2022, at a CAGR of 3.5% during the forecast period, as per the recent study by MarketsandMarkets. The global septic tanks market is driven by septic tank market expansion are the rising business and residential construction activities. Septic tanks are growing in popularity as a result of the increased demand for effective wastewater treatment options in both business and residential properties, and growing adoption of septic in rural areas.

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Browse in-depth TOC on "Septic Tanks Market

122 - Market Data Tables

39 - Figures

162 - Pages

List of Key Players in Septic Tanks Market:

Kingspan Group (Ireland) Advanced Drainage systems (US) Synder Industries (US) GRAF(Germany) Orenco Systems (US)

Drivers, Opportunities and Challenges in Septic Tanks Market:

Drivers: Growth in the adoption of septic systems in rural areas Restraint: High cost of concrete septic tanks Challenges: High prices of raw materials for septic systems Opportunity: Smart solutions for septic systems

Key Findings of the Study:

The residential, by application, is expected to be the most significant Septic tanks segment during the forecast period. Conventional septic tanks is anticipated to be the fastest-growing septic tanks segment, by type, during the forecast period. North America is expected to be the fastest-growing segment in the global septic tanks market, by region, during the forecast period.

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The Septic Tanks market, by type, is segmented into conventional septic tank , drip distribution septic tank, chamber septic tank and others. Globally, conventional septic tanks dominated the septic Tanks market. Conventional septic tanks projected to reach USD 3.3 billion by 2027 from USD 2.7 billion in 2022 and is expected to register a CAGR of 3.5% during the forecast period. The most prevalent kind of septic tank used in residential and commercial environments are conventional septic tanks. They have a straightforward construction with a single compartment that enables the separation of liquids and the settling of solids. Regular upkeep is necessary for conventional septic tanks to avoid solids buildup and ensure the system is operating as intended.

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Septic tanks market , by raw material segmented into polymer, precast concrete, and fiberglass are all essential segments. Polymer is a common material for septic tanks due to its durability, low cost, and ease of installation. Polymer septic tanks are built of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) or other comparable materials that are sturdy, lightweight, and resistant to corrosion, chemicals, and environmental stress. Polymer tanks are also less prone to cracking or leaking than concrete tanks, which can develop fractures over time owing to settling, ground movement, or exposure to freeze-thaw cycles. Furthermore, because plastic tanks are lighter than concrete tanks and do not require heavy equipment or specific skills, they may be simply transported and installed. Polymer septic tanks are often less expensive than traditional materials such as concrete or fiberglass. This can make them a more cost-effective solution for homeowners, builders, or installers looking for a low-cost alternative to standard septic tanks.

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Agrochemical tanks, by size, like specialized septic tanks manufacturers, exist in a variety of shapes and sizes. Septic tanks come in a range of sizes, from tiny containers that can manage the sewage from a single home to enormous containers that can service entire towns. The number of beds in the house or structure, the anticipated daily wastewater flow, and the soil permeability of the drain field are some of the variables that influence the size of the necessary septic tank. Septic tanks with capacities ranging from 1,000 to 5,000 liters are typically utilized in non-connected residential and small business premises. These septic tanks are appropriate for small to medium-sized residences and wastewater flow rates ranging from low to moderate. They also apply to houses in isolated areas with limited or no access to a centralized sewer system. Septic tanks with capacities ranging from 1,000 to 5,000 liters can also be utilized for seasonal properties like holiday homes or cottages and small agricultural businesses like farms and ranches. 1,000 to 5,000 holds largest market share in the septic tanks market.

Asia Pacific is estimated to be the largest and fastest-growing market for septic Tanks market during the forecast period. The region has been segmented, by country, into China, Japan, India, and South Korea. It is one of the principal geographical areas in the world where wastewater treatemnt is expanding significantly. Because to its enormous population and expanding economy, the Asia Pacific area may see an increase in demand for septic tanks. Septic tanks are frequently used in places without access to a centralised sewer system, as may be the situation in various regions of the Asia Pacific. Also, certain governments in the Asia-Pacific region might be spending money on infrastructure expansion, which might involve installing septic tank systems.

Major players operating in the Septic tanks are Kingspan Group(Ireland), Advanced Drainage systems(US), Synder Industries(US), GRAF(Germany), and Orenco Systems(US). These companies have reliable manufacturing facilities as well as strong distribution networks across key regions, such as North America, Europe, and Asia Pacific. They have an established portfolio of reputable products and services, a robust market presence, and strong business strategies. Furthermore, these companies have a significant market share, products with wider applications, broader geographical use cases, and a larger product footprint. experience and support of government mandates have contributed to the growth of the automotive airbags & seatbelts market in this region.

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CONTACT: About MarketsandMarkets MarketsandMarkets is a blue ocean alternative in growth consulting and program management, leveraging a man-machine offering to drive supernormal growth for progressive organizations in the B2B space. We have the widest lens on emerging technologies, making us proficient in co-creating supernormal growth for clients. The B2B economy is witnessing the emergence of $25 trillion of new revenue streams that are substituting existing revenue streams in this decade alone. We work with clients on growth programs, helping them monetize this $25 trillion opportunity through our service lines - TAM Expansion, Go-to-Market (GTM) Strategy to Execution, Market Share Gain, Account Enablement, and Thought Leadership Marketing. Built on the 'GIVE Growth' principle, we work with several Forbes Global 2000 B2B companies - helping them stay relevant in a disruptive ecosystem. Our insights and strategies are molded by our industry experts, cutting-edge AI-powered Market Intelligence Cloud, and years of research. The KnowledgeStore (our Market Intelligence Cloud) integrates our research, facilitates an analysis of interconnections through a set of applications, helping clients look at the entire ecosystem and understand the revenue shifts happening in their industry. To find out more, visit www.MarketsandMarkets.com or follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn and Facebook. Contact: Mr. Aashish Mehra MarketsandMarkets INC. 630 Dundee Road Suite 430 Northbrook, IL 60062 USA: +1-888-600-6441 Email: sales@marketsandmarkets.com




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Idalia just became a hurricane and the life-threatening storm system is expected to rapidly intensify before it makes landfall in Florida, the National Hurrican Center said. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis declared a state of emergency and the state is making preparations, including the early release of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits.

Food Stamps: SNAP Benefits Will Increase in 2024

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Theres been no announcement regarding the early release of SNAP benefits, but the Naples Daily News reported that the Flordia Department of Children and Families (DCF), the agency responsible for administering SNAP to Floridians, will request the early release of benefits depending on the severity of the storm.

Floridas SNAP benefits typically go out between the 1st and the 28th of the month, based on the 9th and 8th digits of your case number, as previously reported by GOBankingRates using data from the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

Last year, SNAP helped 13% of Florida households, per data from the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities. The average payment per household member per month is $180 for fiscal year 2023, or $5.93 per day. Early SNAP benefits could provide much-needed relief to Floridas SNAP households before Idalia makes landfall. Households can use these funds to prepare for the storm and stock necessary foods and other necessities.

Food stamps in Florida can be used to purchase groceries, such as breads, cereals, fruits and vegetables, meats and fish, dairy and plants and seeds to grow food, according to the USDA. These funds cannot be used to buy alcoholic beverages, tobacco, prepared foods or pet food.

Learn: New SNAP Work Requirements Go Into Effect Sept. 1  Heres Who Qualifies

Naples News Daily reported that Floridians are encouraged to monitor weather conditions and listen to orders from local officials. Residents should also review disaster preparedness plans and stock their disaster supply kits.

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This is going to be a major hurricane, DeSantis said at a Monday news conference, reported CNN. With the potential to hit land as a Category 3 storm, it could be the first hurricane in 172 years to impact Apalachee Bay in the Big Bend region. Heavy rain could produce flash flooding Tuesday into Wednesday along parts of Floridas west coast and panhandle. Four to 8 inches of rain could fall from Tuesday to Thursday with flooding streets.

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This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: SNAP Benefits May Come Early to Florida As Hurricane Idalia Hits Land
Sociedad Quimica y Minera de Chile (NYSE:SQM) has had a rough month with its share price down 17%. However, a closer look at its sound financials might cause you to think again. Given that fundamentals usually drive long-term market outcomes, the company is worth looking at. Particularly, we will be paying attention to Sociedad Quimica y Minera de Chile's ROE today.

Return on Equity or ROE is a test of how effectively a company is growing its value and managing investors money. Simply put, it is used to assess the profitability of a company in relation to its equity capital.

See our latest analysis for Sociedad Quimica y Minera de Chile

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 Sociedad Quimica y Minera de Chile is:

72% = US$3.6b  US$5.0b (Based on the trailing twelve months to June 2023).

The 'return' is the amount earned after tax over the last twelve months. That means that for every $1 worth of shareholders' equity, the company generated $0.72 in profit.

What Has ROE Got To Do With Earnings Growth?

Thus far, we have learned that ROE measures how efficiently a company is generating its profits. Depending on how much of these profits the company reinvests or "retains", and how effectively it does so, we are then able to assess a companys earnings growth potential. Generally speaking, other things being equal, firms with a high return on equity and profit retention, have a higher growth rate than firms that dont share these attributes.

Sociedad Quimica y Minera de Chile's Earnings Growth And 72% ROE

First thing first, we like that Sociedad Quimica y Minera de Chile has an impressive ROE. Secondly, even when compared to the industry average of 15% the company's ROE is quite impressive. As a result, Sociedad Quimica y Minera de Chile's exceptional 60% net income growth seen over the past five years, doesn't come as a surprise.

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As a next step, we compared Sociedad Quimica y Minera de Chile's net income growth with the industry, and pleasingly, we found that the growth seen by the company is higher than the average industry growth of 11%.

The basis for attaching value to a company is, to a great extent, tied to its earnings growth. The investor should try to establish if the expected growth or decline in earnings, whichever the case may be, is priced in. Doing so will help them establish if the stock's future looks promising or ominous. What is SQM worth today? The intrinsic value infographic in our free research report helps visualize whether SQM is currently mispriced by the market.

Is Sociedad Quimica y Minera de Chile Using Its Retained Earnings Effectively?

The high three-year median payout ratio of 67% (implying that it keeps only 33% of profits) for Sociedad Quimica y Minera de Chile suggests that the company's growth wasn't really hampered despite it returning most of the earnings to its shareholders.

Additionally, Sociedad Quimica y Minera de Chile has paid dividends over a period of at least ten years which means that the company is pretty serious about sharing its profits with shareholders. Our latest analyst data shows that the future payout ratio of the company over the next three years is expected to be approximately 66%. However, Sociedad Quimica y Minera de Chile's future ROE is expected to decline to 37% despite there being not much change anticipated in the company's payout ratio.

Conclusion

On the whole, we feel that Sociedad Quimica y Minera de Chile's performance has been quite good. In particular, its high ROE is quite noteworthy and also the probable explanation behind its considerable earnings growth. Yet, the company is retaining a small portion of its profits. Which means that the company has been able to grow its earnings in spite of it, so that's not too bad. With that said, on studying the latest analyst forecasts, we found that while the company has seen growth in its past earnings, analysts expect its future earnings to shrink. To know more about the latest analysts predictions for the company, check out this visualization of analyst forecasts for the company.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com.



This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.
South Port New Zealand Limited (NZSE:SPN) has announced that it will pay a dividend of NZ$0.2294 per share on the 7th of November. This makes the dividend yield 3.7%, which will augment investor returns quite nicely.

Check out our latest analysis for South Port New Zealand

South Port New Zealand's Dividend Is Well Covered By Earnings

A big dividend yield for a few years doesn't mean much if it can't be sustained. Based on the last dividend, South Port New Zealand is earning enough to cover the payment, but then it makes up 341% of cash flows. While the company may be more focused on returning cash to shareholders than growing the business at this time, we think that a cash payout ratio this high might expose the dividend to being cut if the business ran into some challenges.

Over the next year, EPS could expand by 3.9% if recent trends continue. If the dividend continues along recent trends, we estimate the payout ratio will be 70%, which is in the range that makes us comfortable with the sustainability of the dividend.

South Port New Zealand Has A Solid Track Record

The company has a sustained record of paying dividends with very little fluctuation. The annual payment during the last 10 years was NZ$0.22 in 2013, and the most recent fiscal year payment was NZ$0.27. This works out to be a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of approximately 2.1% a year over that time. Slow and steady dividend growth might not sound that exciting, but dividends have been stable for ten years, which we think makes this a fairly attractive offer.

Dividend Growth May Be Hard To Achieve

The company's investors will be pleased to have been receiving dividend income for some time. Earnings have grown at around 3.9% a year for the past five years, which isn't massive but still better than seeing them shrink. The company has been growing at a pretty soft 3.9% per annum, and is paying out quite a lot of its earnings to shareholders. This isn't bad in itself, but unless earnings growth pick up we wouldn't expect dividends to grow either.

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In Summary

Overall, it's nice to see a consistent dividend payment, but we think that longer term, the current level of payment might be unsustainable. While South Port New Zealand is earning enough to cover the payments, the cash flows are lacking. This company is not in the top tier of income providing stocks.

Investors generally tend to favour companies with a consistent, stable dividend policy as opposed to those operating an irregular one. However, there are other things to consider for investors when analysing stock performance. As an example, we've identified 2 warning signs for South Port New Zealand that you should be aware of before investing. Looking for more high-yielding dividend ideas? Try our collection of strong dividend payers.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com.



This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.
mphillips007 / Getty Images/iStockphoto

If youre starting a small business, youll have to factor in countless variables to determine whether youve got a viable idea. The size of your market, the cost of production, the available labor pool and your ability to scale are just a few of the many elements youll have to incorporate into your business plan.

Jaspreet Singh: 5 Assets To Buy So You Never Have To Work Again

See: What To Do If You Owe Back Taxes to the IRS

With so much going on, taxes may be one of the last considerations on your mind  but that would be a mistake. Although federal tax law applies to every business, individual states have their own taxes that can literally make or break a company that might be just starting out or running on the margins.

With that in mind, heres a look at which states offer the best tax laws for small businesses.

Which States Have Favorable Tax Policies for Small Businesses?

According to the Tax Foundation, these are the most favorable states for small businesses:

Wyoming South Dakota Alaska Florida Montana New Hampshire Nevada Utah Indiana North Carolina

Generally speaking, states have higher rankings because they dont assess some of the major types of taxes that other states do. These could range from corporate income taxes or sales taxes to even personal income taxes. Those that do charge all of these taxes, such as Indiana and Utah, do so at a low rate.

Find Out: 6 Steps To Take To Become a Millionaire by 30

How Can Favorable Tax Laws Help Your Small Business?

While taxes are a necessary part of a functioning society, mathematically speaking, they are a drag on company earnings. States that have more favorable tax laws help your business keep more of what it earns  and may even incentivize purchases from consumers.

States with no sales taxes, for example, are a boon for consumers, as they can reduce the price of a purchased item by a significant amount. For example, with limited exceptions, Alaska, Delaware, Montana, New Hampshire and Oregon charge no sales tax. If you run a small business in these states, youre likely benefiting from increased purchases by cost-conscious consumers.

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California, on the other hand, levies the highest state sales tax in the country, at 7.25%. This means that, all other things being equal, consumers in California may pay 7.25% more for the same item sold in those other states. This could be a drag on your sales if you operate in California.

Nevada, South Dakota and Wyoming are among the best states for running a small business because they have neither corporate nor personal income taxes. This means that whether youre incorporated or a sole proprietor, there are no state taxes on your business profits. This can boost your business income by 9% or more. Alaska, Illinois, Minnesota and New Jersey all levy state corporate taxes of at least 9%, with New Jersey topping the scale at 11.5%.

If youre a sole proprietor, personal income taxes matter more than corporate taxes because all business profits flow to your individual income tax return. In this case, your business might want to avoid states with the highest personal income taxes. California has by far the highest top income tax rate at 13.3%, but seven additional states have individual rates of at least 7%:

Hawaii (11%)

New York (10.9%)

New Jersey (10.75)

Oregon (9.9%)

Minnesota (9.5%)

Massachusetts (9%)

Vermont (8.75%)

Wisconsin (7.65%)

Maine (7.15%)

Washington (7%)

Which States Should You Avoid If Youre Running a Small Business?

Obviously, business can be successfully conducted in any state. However, some put up higher hurdles in terms of tax policies that can make it harder to generate a profit. The Tax Foundation lists these states as the most unfavorable for businesses from a tax perspective:

Alabama Rhode Island Hawaii Vermont Minnesota Maryland Connecticut California New York New Jersey

Bear in mind that these states may very well offer other advantages that can outweigh the effects of taxation on small businesses, from a wealthier populace to more plentiful consumers who need what you sell.

The Bottom Line

Taxes are not the only factor you should consider when developing your business strategy, but they can weigh heavily on your companys profitability. Different taxes apply to different types of businesses, so you should analyze whether corporate, personal or sales taxes will have the greatest effect on your company. Because these can be complicated calculations, consider speaking with a tax advisor to find the best solutions for your business.

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This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: Which States Offer the Best Tax Laws for Small Businesses?
We still have work to do: The average 401(k) balance was just $112K in 2022  3 tried and tested techniques to pave your path to becoming a 401(k) millionaire

Almost no one is prepared for retirement.

At least, thats the story the statistics tell. The average 401(k) balance in 2022 was just $112,572, according to data from Vanguard. Thats barely enough to cover your living expenses for two years in many parts of the country.

The statistics are even more grim when you sort them by age group. Younger Americans have struggled to save over the years and now the average Vanguard client under the age of 35 has only $30,017 in their account.

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Bear in mind that these are averages. That means the numbers are skewed by some people who may have tremendous savings in their accounts. In fact, Fidelity Investments recently revealed that over 299,000 of their clients have over $1 million in their 401(k)s. Thats roughly 1.4% of all their accounts and a 10% jump from the quarter before.

Simply put, accumulating a million dollars in a retirement account isnt easy. But it is achievable with some simple steps. Heres a closer look.

Max out your accounts

Only 40% of the American workforce participates in the 401(k) program offered by their employers. That means a significant number of workers are missing out on the tax benefit  and so the retirement gap increases.

This is why the first step to being a 401(k) millionaire is to understand the program and maximize your use of it. Speak to a financial expert, account or your employer to see how you can participate and use this program to its full benefit.

Under IRS guidelines, the maximum contribution room for an employee is $22,500 for 2023. Employees over the age of 50 can make extra catch-up contributions under some circumstances, and theres also a limit on how much the employer can match contributions.

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Do your research and figure out how you can use this plan to boost your retirement.

Read more: 36% of millionaires say itll take a miracle to retire amid rising costs and a shaky market  here are the best shock-proof assets to grow your nest egg

Trust the market

The 401(k) program is designed to be flexible: you can invest the contributed funds in any financial instrument. Most companies offer a range of options such as mutual funds, and they may include index funds, large-cap and small-cap funds, foreign funds, real estate funds and bond funds.

Investing in stocks could be the key to millionaire status for most savers. The S&P 500 has delivered a 10.13% compounded annual return from 1957 through Dec. 31, 2022. This double-digit growth rate has helped thousands of employees accumulate more than a million dollars in their 401(k).

Of course, past performance is not an indicator of future returns. But any investor seeking long-term growth in their net worth should certainly consider the track record of the stock market.

Stay invested for the long-term

Maxing out your 401(k) and investing in the stock market isnt enough. For the power of compounding to have a tangible impact, you need to remain invested for extended periods. That means employing consistent dollar-cost averaging  i.e., repeatedly and regularly putting the same amount of money in the same investments over extended periods of time  regardless of market conditions.

A consistent and disciplined approach could take your 401(k) account beyond seven figures over time.

What to read next

This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.
Long-established in the Telecommunication Services industry, AT&T Inc (NYSE:T) has enjoyed a stellar reputation. It has recently witnessed a surge of 3.24%, juxtaposed with a three-month change of -4.13%. However, fresh insights from the GuruFocus Score Rating hint at potential headwinds. Notably, its diminished rankings in financial strength, growth, and valuation suggest that the company might not live up to its historical performance. Join us as we dive deep into these pivotal metrics to unravel the evolving narrative of AT&T Inc.

AT&T Inc (T): A Deep Dive into Its Performance Potential

Understanding the GF Score

The GF Score is a stock performance ranking system developed by GuruFocus using five aspects of valuation, which has been found to be closely correlated to the long-term performances of stocks by backtesting from 2006 to 2021. The stocks with a higher GF Score generally generate higher returns than those with a lower GF Score. Therefore, when picking stocks, investors should invest in companies with high GF Scores. The GF Score ranges from 0 to 100, with 100 as the highest rank.

Based on the above method, GuruFocus assigned AT&T Inc the GF Score of 64 out of 100, which signals poor future outperformance potential.

AT&T Inc: A Snapshot of the Business

AT&T Inc, with a market cap of $104.88 billion and sales of $121.44 billion, is a major player in the Telecommunication Services industry. The company's operating margin stands at 19.92%. The wireless business contributes about two thirds of AT&T's revenue following the spinoff of Warner Media. The firm is the third-largest U.S. wireless carrier, connecting 70 million postpaid and 18 million prepaid phone customers. Fixed-line enterprise services, which account for about 18% of revenue, include internet access, private networking, security, voice, and wholesale network capacity. Residential fixed-line services, about 11% of revenue, primarily consist of broadband internet access service. AT&T also has a sizable presence in Mexico, serving 22 million customers, but this business only accounts for 3% of revenue. The firm still holds a 70% equity stake in satellite television provider DirecTV but does not consolidate this business in its financial statements.

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AT&T Inc (T): A Deep Dive into Its Performance Potential

Financial Strength Analysis

AT&T Inc's financial strength indicators present some concerning insights about the company's balance sheet health. The company's interest coverage ratio of 3.84 positions it worse than 61.41% of 298 companies in the Telecommunication Services industry. This ratio highlights potential challenges the company might face when handling its interest expenses on outstanding debt. It's worth noting that the esteemed investor Benjamin Graham typically favored companies with an interest coverage ratio of at least five.

The company's Altman Z-Score is just 0.44, which is below the distress zone of 1.81. This suggests that the company may face financial distress over the next few years. Additionally, the company's low cash-to-debt ratio at 0.06 indicates a struggle in handling existing debt levels. Furthermore, the company's debt-to-Ebitda ratio is 7.81, which is above Joel Tillinghast's warning level of 4 and is worse than 89.1% of 312 companies in the Telecommunication Services industry. Tillinghast said in his book Big Money Think's Small: Biases, Blind Spots, and Smarter Investing that a high debt-to-Ebitda ratio can be a red flag unless tangible assets cover the debt.

Growth Prospects

A lack of significant growth is another area where AT&T Inc seems to falter, as evidenced by the company's low Growth rank. The company's revenue has declined by -13.6 per year over the past three years, which underperforms worse than 88.16% of 380 companies in the Telecommunication Services industry. Stagnating revenues may pose concerns in a fast-evolving market.

Over the past five years, AT&T Inc has witnessed a decline in its earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization (EBITDA). The three-year growth rate is recorded at -28.2, while the five-year growth rate is at -15.9. These figures underscore potential challenges in the company's profitability. Lastly, AT&T Inc predictability rank is just one star out of five, adding to investor uncertainty regarding revenue and earnings consistency.

AT&T Inc (T): A Deep Dive into Its Performance Potential

Conclusion

Given the company's financial strength, profitability, and growth metrics, the GuruFocus Score Rating highlights the firm's unparalleled position for potential underperformance. While AT&T Inc has a rich history and a significant presence in the Telecommunication Services industry, its current financial health and growth prospects may not be as promising as they once were. Investors should consider these factors when making investment decisions.

GuruFocus Premium members can find more companies with strong GF Scores using the following screener link: GF Score Screen

This article first appeared on GuruFocus.


(Bloomberg) -- Afghanistans Taliban-led government is working with Huawei Technologies to install a wide-ranging surveillance system across the country in an effort to identify and target insurgents or terrorism activities, according to a person familiar with the discussions.

Most Read from Bloomberg

Representatives of the Shenzhen-headquartered tech company met with Interior Ministry officials on Aug. 14, the person said, and a verbal agreement was reached regarding the contract.

The Interior Ministry initially posted images and details of the meeting on X, the social media platform formerly known as Twitter. In one post, spokesman Mufti Abdul Mateen Qani said the advanced camera system was being considered in every province of Afghanistan.

The posts, which were later deleted, included comments from Abdullah Mukhtar, the deputy minister of the ministry. We are willing to accept projects that are better in terms of quality and price, he said.

Reports on this meeting are factually incorrect. No plans or agreements were discussed, Huawei said in an emailed statement. Spokesmen for the Taliban did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

The person familiar with the meeting, who asked not to be identified to discuss the agreement, said the system was largely meant to track down members of ISIS in Afghanistan, as well as other militants.

The local affiliate of the Islamic State of Syria and Iraq is considered to be one of the Talibans biggest security threats and responsible for last years deadly attack on the Russian embassy in Kabul.

The group also struck a hotel in Afghanistans capital often frequented by Chinese nationals, and had threatened to target the Chinese, Indian and Iranian embassies in the country, according to a recent United Nations report.

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--With assistance from Gao Yuan.

Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek

2023 Bloomberg L.P.
Multiple Target department stores in New Jersey, North Carolina, Ohio and Wisconsin received bomb threats Tuesday, reports said.

Several locations in Charlotte, N.C., and near Cincinnati, Ohio, were evacuated due to the threatening messages, according to authorities.

This morning numerous bomb threats were made via email to various Target stores throughout Charlotte, the Charlotte Metropolitan Police Department posted online Tuesday. At this time, there is no indication of any validity to the threats.

Charlotte police noted there appears to be a trend of emails with similar threats made in other states today.

Ohio station WLWT reported retailers in Anderson Township, Colerain Township and Warren County were temporarily cleared out as were two Target locations in Cincinnati.

Heightened police activity was reported in Middletown, New Jersey, where a store was threatened around 11 a.m., according to local site Tap Into Middletown. That Target operates roughly 40 miles south of New York City.

Police in New Berlin, Wisconsin, said Tuesday a bomb squad from Milwaukee came to their assistance after a generic email threatened a Target store shortly before 10 a.m. A search of that store revealed the threat to be a hoax posing no threat to the public.

A similar rash of bomb threats against the Minnesota-based retailer disrupted operations in June while Target was celebrating Pride Month. Promotions geared toward the LGBTQ+ community stoked a fire under conservative activists, resulting in aggression toward some of Targets nearly 2,000 U.S. stores.

That same month, The Washington Post reported Target operations in at least five states were evacuated during that wave of bomb threats, however no explosives were found.

It is unclear if Tuesdays threats were connected to right-wing extremism. Retailers nationwide are busily pushing back-to-school deals.

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The board of TClarke plc (LON:CTO) has announced that it will be increasing its dividend by 10.0% on the 29th of September to 0.0138, up from last year's comparable payment of 0.0125. This makes the dividend yield about the same as the industry average at 4.2%.

Check out our latest analysis for TClarke

TClarke's Dividend Is Well Covered By Earnings

Solid dividend yields are great, but they only really help us if the payment is sustainable. But before making this announcement, TClarke's earnings quite easily covered the dividend. The business is earning enough to make the dividend feasible, but the cash payout ratio of 78% shows that most of the cash is going back to the shareholders, which could constrain growth prospects going forward.

Over the next year, EPS is forecast to expand by 50.4%. If the dividend continues on this path, the payout ratio could be 26% by next year, which we think can be pretty sustainable going forward.

TClarke Has A Solid Track Record

The company has a sustained record of paying dividends with very little fluctuation. Since 2013, the dividend has gone from 0.03 total annually to 0.0548. This implies that the company grew its distributions at a yearly rate of about 6.2% over that duration. Dividends have grown at a reasonable rate over this period, and without any major cuts in the payment over time, we think this is an attractive combination as it provides a nice boost to shareholder returns.

The Dividend's Growth Prospects Are Limited

Investors could be attracted to the stock based on the quality of its payment history. However, initial appearances might be deceiving. In the last five years, TClarke's earnings per share has shrunk at approximately 3.3% per annum. If earnings continue declining, the company may have to make the difficult choice of reducing the dividend or even stopping it completely - the opposite of dividend growth. Earnings are predicted to grow over the next year, but we would remain cautious until a track record of earnings growth is established.

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We should note that TClarke has issued stock equal to 20% of shares outstanding. Trying to grow the dividend when issuing new shares reminds us of the ancient Greek tale of Sisyphus - perpetually pushing a boulder uphill. Companies that consistently issue new shares are often suboptimal from a dividend perspective.

Our Thoughts On TClarke's Dividend

Overall, we always like to see the dividend being raised, but we don't think TClarke will make a great income stock. The company hasn't been paying a very consistent dividend over time, despite only paying out a small portion of earnings. This company is not in the top tier of income providing stocks.

Investors generally tend to favour companies with a consistent, stable dividend policy as opposed to those operating an irregular one. Meanwhile, despite the importance of dividend payments, they are not the only factors our readers should know when assessing a company. For example, we've picked out 2 warning signs for TClarke that investors should know about before committing capital to this stock. If you are a dividend investor, you might also want to look at our curated list of high yield dividend stocks.

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.
Will provide its Cerberus XL counter-drone surveillance platform to identify and track unmanned aerial threats

BOSTON, August 29, 2023--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Teledyne FLIR Defense, part of Teledyne Technologies Incorporated (NYSE:TDY), has signed a contract with Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace, Norway, valued at roughly $31 million to provide its Cerberus XL mobile counter-unmanned aerial system (UAS) as part of a total C-UAS solution for Ukraine. The agreement includes delivery of the surveillance platforms as well as software, spares, support and training.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230829168752/en/

Teledyne FLIR Defense has signed a contract with Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace, Norway, to provide its Cerberus XL mobile counter-unmanned aerial system (UAS) as part of a total C-UAS solution for Ukraine's military. Cerberus XL combines an advanced thermal/visual imaging system with highly sensitive radar sensors onto a mobile platform to rapidly locate and track UAS targets. (Photo: Business Wire)

Kongsberg recently signed an agreement with the International Fund for Ukraine (IFU) to deliver counter-drone systems that will be donated to the war-torn nation. The IFU was established by the UK and international partners to identify and procure critical capabilities and deliver them quickly to Ukraine. Norway and the UK are among many nations that have contributed to the fund.

Cerberus XL combines an advanced thermal/visual imaging system with highly sensitive radar sensors onto a mobile platform to rapidly locate and track UAS targets. Kongsberg then feeds information from Cerberus into its remote weapons station to disable and defeat the threat.

"Teledyne FLIR is proud to partner with Kongsberg in delivering our next-generation Cerberus XL as part of a complete and robust system to protect Ukraine's warfighters," said Dr. JihFen Lei, executive vice president and general manager of Teledyne FLIR Defense. "We have a long history of providing state-of-the-art imaging solutions to Kongsberg, and this important joint effort only strengthens our relationship."

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In addition to the Cerberus systems, Teledyne FLIR is supporting Ukraines defense with other advanced military technology, including its Black Hornet nano-drone. The Black Hornet 3 is currently being used by Ukrainian forces through donations made by the British and Norwegian governments.

To learn more about Teledyne FLIRs counter-UAS solutions, visit us online.

About Teledyne FLIR

Teledyne FLIR, a Teledyne Technologies company, is a world leader in intelligent sensing, unmanned systems, and integrated solutions for defense and industrial markets, with roughly 4,000 employees worldwide. Founded in 1978, the company develops a wide range of advanced technologies to help professionals make better, faster decisions that save lives and livelihoods. To learn more, visit teledyneflir.com or follow @flir. #AnyThreatAnywhere

About Teledyne Technologies

Teledyne Technologies is a leading provider of sophisticated digital imaging products and software, instrumentation, aerospace and defense electronics, and engineered systems. Teledyne's operations are primarily located in the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, and Western and Northern Europe. For more information, visit Teledyne's website at www.teledyne.com.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230829168752/en/

Contacts

Joe Ailinger, Jr.

Teledyne FLIR Defense

Phone: +1 781-801-6161

Email: joe.ailinger@teledyne.com

Ryan Williams

Targeted Victory

Phone: +1 617-697-9072

Email: rwilliams@targetedvictory.com
Dealing with the ins and outs of equity compensation can seem daunting, but being proactive, focusing on goals and planning can make it all more manageable.

Stress about finances transcends income level, financial acumen and experience, and todays economic climate is presenting challenges even for seasoned company leaders. In fact, Morgan Stanley at Work research shows that 83% of executives who receive equity compensation say financial stress is negatively impacting their work and personal lives.

If youre in that boat, factors like long vesting schedules, complicated tools or a confusing website can make equity compensation easy to overlook or frustrating to try to weave into your financial plans. While many used to see equity compensation as just a nice bonus, its especially worthwhile amid todays uncertainty to view equity more holistically.

Equity compensation is a key part of your overall earnings, yet even financial professionals sometimes struggle with these complex instruments. Lets break down a path that can help you better incorporate equity from your employer into your overall financial path.

1. Stay proactive.

Take the time to look under the hood of your equity compensation plan each time you review your income, assets and debts. Earmark any equity events coming up in the next the year, such as stock options or RSUs (restricted stock units) that will vest, upcoming employee stock purchase program (ESPP) purchases or stock options set to expire.

It's also a good idea to check in on the potential value of your holdings, which is usually based on the current market price multiplied by the amount of share units you are awarded, minus any exercise costs. There may also be commissions and fees due, as well as tax implications  which are always a factor no matter when or how you use your equity compensation. Calculating tax implications can be complicated  for example, stock options, RSUs and ESPPs are taxed differently at conversion (RSUs), exercise (stock options) or sale (all types of holdings). The amount of time you own your share units also affects your tax treatment. A tax adviser can help.

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Every companys plan is different, and equity compensation can be complex, so make sure you have the details you need to make informed decisions. Beyond reviewing your plan details and exploring the digital platform on which your equity is administered, reach out to your employer with questions  they likely offer tailored content to help deliver answers, as well as on-call direct support from equity professionals who can provide personalized guidance.

2. Goals guide the way.

Our State of the Workplace Study 2023 has found that people now see achieving long-term goals as the most important benefit of equity compensation.2 But what are your goals, and how do you actually get there? There is no one right answer, whether its kicking off a new business venture, supporting a cause you love, paying down debt or buying a home. Whatever the case, your financial plan should adapt depending on your goals. Be honest with yourself about what you want to be working toward and how your equity awards may be able to help you get there.

As youre accruing company equity, consider your personal level of risk tolerance overall, your time horizon, how liquid you need your investments to be and how large a percentage of your portfolio is made up of your company stock. Depending on your needs, you may want to diversify your investments to balance out risk and reward, particularly if your equity compensation becomes a larger part of your overall financial picture.

The bottom line: Be intentional. Defining a strategy for yourself that includes workplace equity awards can be an essential step in building up your personal wealth and reaching financial goals. You may benefit from working with a financial professional who can help you navigate contractual obligations and rules regarding your equity stake, as well as how to effectively tailor your overall investments toward your goals.

3. Plan for everything.

Consistency is key. Sometimes we arent planning or executing our financial strategy as well as we could simply because we are short on time, and equity can start to feel like a double-edged sword: With increased wealth potential comes new obligations and red tape. If you are not a financial professional fluent in tax code, consider seeking out professional assistance.

A financial adviser can offer insights around your specific financial situation and help you pull in the right specialists, from insurance to tax and estate attorneys. Connect with your company to find out if you can access workplace financial advisers and equity professionals who really understand the ins and outs of your unique plan and can help you find the right information and resources at the right time. Your equity plan provider and employer may also offer customizable solutions to help you make decisions amid the landscape of insider trading regulations and reporting requirements.

Whatever the market conditions or the hurdles you encounter in navigating your equity compensation, dont leave this powerful benefit on autopilot. Remain mindful of your equity stake with each financial decision you make to take a more active role in owning how your company stake works for you.

This material has been prepared for informational and educational purposes only. It does not provide individually tailored investment advice. It has been prepared without regard to the individual financial circumstances and objectives of persons who receive it. Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC (Morgan Stanley) recommends that investors independently evaluate particular investments and strategies, and encourages investors to seek the advice of a Morgan Stanley Financial Advisor. The appropriateness of a particular investment or strategy will depend on an investors individual circumstances and objectives.

When Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC, its affiliates and Morgan Stanley Financial Advisors and Private Wealth Advisors (collectively, Morgan Stanley) provide investment advice regarding a retirement or welfare benefit plan account, an individual retirement account or a Coverdell education savings account (Retirement Account), Morgan Stanley is a fiduciary as those terms are defined under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, as amended (ERISA), and/or the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (the Code), as applicable. When Morgan Stanley provides investment education, takes orders on an unsolicited basis or otherwise does not provide investment advice, Morgan Stanley will not be considered a fiduciary under ERISA and/or the Code. For more information regarding Morgan Stanleys role with respect to a Retirement Account, please visit www.morganstanley.com/disclosures/dol. Tax laws are complex and subject to change. Morgan Stanley does not provide tax or legal advice. Individuals are encouraged to consult their tax and legal advisors (a) before establishing a Retirement Account, and (b) regarding any potential tax, ERISA and related consequences of any investments or other transactions made with respect to a Retirement Account.

By providing a link to a third party website or online publication or article, Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC (Morgan Stanley) is not implying an affiliation, sponsorship, endorsement, etc. with the third party or that any monitoring is being done by Morgan Stanley of any information contained within the article or web site. Morgan Stanley is not responsible for the information contained on the third party web site or your use of or inability to use such site. Nor do we guarantee their accuracy and completeness. The terms, conditions, and privacy policy of any third party web site may be different from those applicable to your use of any Morgan Stanley web site. The opinions expressed by the author are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Morgan Stanley. Professional designations mentioned in the articles may or may not be approved for use at Morgan Stanley. Securities, investments, strategies or products mentioned or discussed on the third party website or online publication are neither an endorsement nor solicitation by Morgan Stanley. The information and data provided by the third party web site or publication is as of the date of the article when it was written and is subject to change without notice. Past performance is not a guarantee of future results.

Morgan Stanley at Work, Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC, and its affiliates and employees do not provide legal or tax advice. You should always consult with and rely on your own legal and/or tax advisors. Morgan Stanley at Work services are provided by Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC, member SIPC, and its affiliates, all wholly owned subsidiaries of Morgan Stanley. CRC 5802524 - 7/23
Financial risks can be mitigated by good internal controls and procedures.

Financial risk can come in many forms. It could be an outside party that gains access to your bank account or a lawsuit that could bankrupt your business. Alternatively, it could be a high-access employee embezzling funds or a poor business decision made without adequate research.

Because there are a variety of ways your business financial health could be threatened, you need to see where your weak points are. Here are three areas that are especially important to investigate as you evaluate your companys potential financial risks.

1. Check in with your employees

Employees can be both your greatest defense against risk and your greatest weakness. As a result, youll need to employ both training and oversight to reduce employee-related risk.

When hackers are trying to steal your information, seldom is it a dramatic hack into the mainframe Hollywood stereotype. Its far easier to get what they want by tricking your employees into clicking a link or volunteering valuable information. And with hackers becoming more sophisticated in their social engineering exploits, training is more important than ever.

On at least an annual basis, you should evaluate your employee training procedures. Anyone who has access to sensitive company and financial information should be taking part in regular financial risk training. You could also look into newsletters that send information on current scams so your employees can recognize phishing attempts and other malicious tactics.

Just recently, a friend of mine told me that more than half of his employees received a text supposedly from the companys president. The texts asked the employees to purchase online gift cards, supposedly for a client who was suddenly coming into town. Thankfully, the employees in his small business easily recognized that the text message wasnt in the presidents writing style. With larger employee pools, however, theres a higher chance that at least one person will fall for it.

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2. Assess your technology

Electronic delivery of information has mostly taken over mail and fax delivery systems. While the convenience and efficiency cant be denied, electronic delivery does carry risks of interception. Making sure your technology has sufficient protection is therefore something you should evaluate regularly.

If you or your employees send sensitive information via email, are the attachments password-protected at a minimum? Are the fintech programs you use secure and trustworthy?

Even if you have tech security measures in place, you still must confirm that your employees are using them. Make sure supervisors regularly emphasize the importance of continued adherence to policy.

In my experience, the most flagrant disregard for security procedures sometimes comes from executives and owners. So if you want your entire staff to practice diligence in security protocols, lead by example. When staff who are copied on sensitive emails see their bosses and supervisors use encryption without fail, it encourages them to follow suit.

On the upside, technology can be used to reduce financial risk when making major business decisions. AI has played an especially important role in this regard. For example, the demand planning features of supply chain management systems can prevent businesses from mistiming investments in inventory and equipment. In nearly any sector you can name, AIs data analysis and pattern recognition capabilities can help companies sidestep financial risk.

Kiplinger Advisor Collective is the premier criteria-based professional organization for personal finance advisors, managers, and executives. Learn more >

3. Have at least two sets of eyes

Micromanaging is generally considered a negative trait in the business realm. In an ideal world, you should be able to hire exceptional employees and leave them to their own devices. Unfortunately, a lack of oversight can cause major problems and leave you open to great risk.

If you have employees with substantial power over finances and billing, ensure that someone is periodically checking their work. Even if that person is at a similar or lower rank, having that second set of eyes is vital.

First of all, it highly discourages embezzlement. There are all sorts of ways to siphon off small amounts of money that dont raise red flags on summary financial statements. For example, an office manager can place a supply order and purposely overpay the invoice. When the supplier refunds the overpayment, the office manager cashes the check and keeps the cash. If no other person looks at the bank statement or compares the supply invoice with the original payment, its a scam thats easy to get away with.

Another reason to have additional eyes on finances is to discover errors. Even stellar employees are only human, and theyre bound to make the occasional mistake. In severe cases, you may be dealing with individuals who arent great employees. You dont want to detect their incompetence in their role only after the situation has become a catastrophe.

Should your business have high-responsibility areas of finance that are running unchecked, you need to get a review system in place, stat. No one person should have absolute control over all the finances.

Identifying your companys vulnerabilities

Some amount of risk is inherent in running a business. Without it, there would be no reward. Yet prudent business owners will strive to keep that level of risk to a minimum.

Most of the time, financial risks can be mitigated by good internal controls and procedures. Once you identify your vulnerabilities, you can take steps to shore up your defenses and prevent disaster.
FILE - Senior cabin crew member Magdalini Michailidou stands on the gangway prior the first holiday flight of the Corendon Airlines Europe to the Greek destination Rhodos at the airport Erfurt-Weimar in Erfurt, Germany, July 2, 2020. Corendon Airlines says that it will sell an adults-only zone  no one under 16 allowed  on flights between Amsterdam and Curacao starting in November 2023. The Turkish carrier says people traveling without children will get quiet surroundings, and parents won't have to worry that their crying or fidgeting kids will annoy fellow passengers. (AP Photo/Jens Meyer, File) (ASSOCIATED PRESS)

DALLAS (AP)  One airline plans to find out if solitude-seeking travelers will pay a hefty extra charge to avoid sitting near babies and little kids.

Corendon Airlines says that it will sell an adults-only zone  no one under 16  on flights between Amsterdam and Curacao starting in November.

The Turkish carrier says people traveling without children will get quiet surroundings, and parents won't have to worry that their crying or fidgeting kids will annoy fellow passengers.

Corendon announced last week that it will set aside 93 regular seats and nine extra-legroom seats in the adult zone in the front of its Airbus A350 jets, which have 432 seats in all. A wall or curtain will separate the section from the wailing masses farther back.

The airline said on its website that it will charge passengers an extra reservation fee of 45 euros ($49) for the no-kids zone, rising to 100 euros ($109) for one of the extra-legroom seats.

To answer your next question, a flight from Amsterdam to Curacao usually takes about 10 hours.

Brett Snyder, who runs a travel agency and writes the Cranky Flier blog, said Tuesday that there could be demand for adult seats.

For a heavy leisure airline like Corendon, which is probably full of families with little kids, I can see the appeal for someone traveling without kids to pay extra to be away from them to have more peace and quiet, Snyder said.

Then again, he added, people in the back of the adult zone might still hear crying, so its like the old days when you were in the last row of the non-smoking section but could still taste that smoke.

Scott Keyes, founder of the flight-search site Going, said the Corendon extra fee is low enough to attract plenty of buyers, and the airline benefits in another way.

New leisure airlines need strong marketing to break through, he said. Trying something new and generating free press is valuable for an otherwise little-known airline.

Corendon is not the first airline to try a section with no small children.

Scoot, a low-cost airline based in Singapore, sells a section where passengers must be at least 12.

Back in 2012, Malaysia Airlines announced it would not allow anyone under 12 in a 70-seat economy section on the upper deck of its Airbus A380 jets. The airline later retreated, saying that if there were too many families with children and infants to fit in the lower deck, it would find room for them in the adult economy section upstairs.
Long-established in the Banks industry, Truist Financial Corp (NYSE:TFC) has enjoyed a stellar reputation. It has recently witnessed a surge of 2.77%, juxtaposed with a three-month change of -0.51%. However, fresh insights from the GuruFocus Score Rating hint at potential headwinds. Notably, its diminished rankings in financial strength, growth, and valuation suggest that the company might not live up to its historical performance. Join us as we dive deep into these pivotal metrics to unravel the evolving narrative of Truist Financial Corp.

Truist Financial Corp (TFC): A Deep Dive into Its Performance Potential

Understanding the GF Score

The GF Score is a stock performance ranking system developed by GuruFocus using five aspects of valuation, which has been found to be closely correlated to the long-term performances of stocks by backtesting from 2006 to 2021. The stocks with a higher GF Score generally generate higher returns than those with a lower GF Score. Therefore, when picking stocks, investors should invest in companies with high GF Scores. The GF Score ranges from 0 to 100, with 100 as the highest rank.

Based on the above method, GuruFocus assigned Truist Financial Corp the GF Score of 59 out of 100, which signals poor future outperformance potential.

Truist Financial Corp: A Snapshot

Based in Charlotte, North Carolina, Truist is the combination of BB&T and SunTrust. Truist is a regional bank with a presence primarily in the Southeastern United States. In addition to commercial banking, retail banking, and investment banking operations, the company operates several nonbank segments, the primary one being its insurance brokerage business. With a market cap of $40.2 billion and sales of $24.1 billion, the company's operating margin is currently not applicable.

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Truist Financial Corp (TFC): A Deep Dive into Its Performance Potential

Financial Strength Analysis

Truist Financial Corp's financial strength indicators present some concerning insights about the company's balance sheet health. Additionally, the company's low cash-to-debt ratio at 0.46 indicates a struggle in handling existing debt levels.

Profitability Breakdown

Truist Financial Corp's low Profitability rank can also raise warning signals. The company's Net Margin has declined over the past five years (-2.97%), as shown by the following data: 2018: 28.01; 2019: 25.65; 2020: 19.74; 2021: 28.93; 2022: 27.18.

Growth Prospects

A lack of significant growth is another area where Truist Financial Corp seems to falter, as evidenced by the company's low Growth rank. Lastly, Truist Financial Corp predictability rank is just one star out of five, adding to investor uncertainty regarding revenue and earnings consistency.

Truist Financial Corp (TFC): A Deep Dive into Its Performance Potential

Conclusion

Given the company's financial strength, profitability, and growth metrics, the GuruFocus Score Rating highlights the firm's unparalleled position for potential underperformance. While Truist Financial Corp has a strong reputation in the banking industry, its current financial indicators suggest that it may struggle to maintain its historical performance. Therefore, investors should exercise caution when considering this stock.

GuruFocus Premium members can find more companies with strong GF Scores using the following screener link: GF Score Screen

This article first appeared on GuruFocus.


The timing would seem less than ideal for someone seeking the presidency.

Donald Trump's trial in federal court on charges he allegedly tried to steal the 2020 election was scheduled on Monday to begin one day before the biggest primary date on the 2024 GOP presidential calendar, Super Tuesday.

But the real electoral peril for Trump  and opportunity for his chief opponent, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis  may not be over that stretch of 48 hours in early March 2024 when 15 states hold their votes.

It could come in the subsequent weeks, when the state where Trump faces another legal peril holds its election and, later, when the state Trump and DeSantis both call home holds an election of its own.



The week after Super Tuesday is the primary in Georgia, a place where GOP voters have not been shy about spurning Trump in recent primaries and where Trump is on trial for his efforts to overturn that states election results.

The week after that, on March 19, is when things could get really interesting. Florida is DeSantis home base and a big delegate prize. It will be holding its primary alongside Arizona, Illinois, Kansas and Ohio. And per the Republican National Committee's rules, the March 19 primaries are the first ones that will be winner-take-all in which the first-place candidate captures all of the states delegates, rather than dividing them proportionally.

That sets up a real political tripwire for Trump: the possibility that he could be cooped up in a Northwest D.C. courtroom instead of on the hustings. Should he stumble ever so slightly on Super Tuesday and need to turn things around, the subsequent few weeks could be a uniquely dangerous time for his chances at a third consecutive nomination.

One could make the case that the same would be true for Super Tuesday itself. But the fact is that yanking the former president off the campaign trail 24 hours before primary day in 15 states is unlikely to change the dynamics in those states.

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Yes, Super Tuesday includes the two most populous (and delegate-rich) states in the nation: California and Texas. But in both states, significant numbers of voters will have already cast their ballots by the time Election Day comes around. Texas has robust early voting, even among Republicans. And California's elections are conducted almost entirely by mail.

As of now, Trump is still well ahead of DeSantis and the other GOP challengers, both nationally and in the early states. Perhaps more consequentially for the race, his operation has proven deft at turning his legal foibles into political benefits, something it tried to do in a fundraising email shortly after the trial date was set.

"The Obama-appointed judge has scheduled a TRIAL DATE in the Biden DOJs witch hunt against me on the DAY BEFORE SUPER TUESDAY  when I am expected to be declared the PRESUMPTIVE GOP nominee for President, the email read.

But in setting the March 4 trial date, U.S. District Court Judge Tanya Chutkan made it so that Trumps political and legal paths will firmly cross and no longer be moving largely in parallel lines. And she refused to consider how the trial will affect Trumps campaign.



Setting a trial date does not depend and should not depend on the defendants personal and professional obligations, Chutkan said during the court proceedings. Mr. Trump, like any defendant, will have to make the trial date work regardless of his schedule.

There is some evidence that Trumps team was hoping to avoid just this. For starters, his campaign operation is spending millions on legal fees, though it has also been able to effectively fundraise off of his indictments and arraignments too. More specifically, his legal team had initially requested an April 2026 trial for this specific election interference trial, a timeline that Chutkan dismissed as far beyond what is necessary.

It may, in the end, be a moot point. Without major changes in the race's dynamics, Trump could essentially clinch the nomination on Super Tuesday, leaving Georgia and Florida voters with no capacity to change the course of the race.

But if DeSantis or another Republican emerges as a real threat to Trump in the early voting states, the race could turn on Trump's trial.

Kyle Cheney contributed to this report.
IDEXX Laboratories Inc (NASDAQ:IDXX) has recently been in the spotlight, drawing interest from investors and financial analysts due to its robust financial stance. With shares currently priced at $507.03, IDEXX Laboratories Inc has witnessed a surge of 2.83% over a period, marked against a three-month change of 7.11%. A thorough analysis, underlined by the GuruFocus Score Rating, suggests that IDEXX Laboratories Inc is well-positioned for substantial growth in the near future.

Unpacking the Financial Strength and Growth Potential of IDEXX Laboratories Inc (IDXX)

Understanding the GF Score

The GF Score is a stock performance ranking system developed by GuruFocus using five aspects of valuation, which has been found to be closely correlated to the long-term performances of stocks by backtesting from 2006 to 2021. The stocks with a higher GF Score generally generate higher returns than those with a lower GF Score. Therefore, when picking stocks, investors should invest in companies with high GF Scores. The GF Score ranges from 0 to 100, with 100 as the highest rank.

Here are the key components of IDEXX Laboratories Inc's GF Score:

Each one of these components is ranked and the ranks also have positive correlation with the long term performances of stocks. The GF score is calculated using the five key aspects of analysis. Through backtesting, we know that each of these key aspects has a different impact on the stock price performance. Thus, they are weighted differently when calculating the total score. With a high profitability rank and a slightly lower GF Value rank, GuruFocus assigned IDEXX Laboratories Inc the GF Score of 97 out of 100, which signals the highest outperformance potential.

Overview of IDEXX Laboratories Inc's Business

IDEXX Laboratories Inc, with a market cap of $42.09 billion, primarily develops, manufactures, and distributes diagnostic products, equipment, and services for pets and livestock. Its key product lines include single-use canine and feline test kits that veterinarians can employ in the office, benchtop chemistry and hematology analyzers for test-panel analysis on-site, reference lab services, and tests to detect and manage disease in livestock. The firm also offers vet practice management software and consulting services to animal hospitals. Idexx gets close to 40% of its revenue from outside the United States. The company's sales stand at $3.51 billion with an operating margin of 29.82%.

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Unpacking the Financial Strength and Growth Potential of IDEXX Laboratories Inc (IDXX)

Financial Strength Analysis

According to the Financial Strength rating, IDEXX Laboratories Inc's robust balance sheet exhibits resilience against financial volatility, reflecting prudent management of capital structure. The Interest Coverage ratio for IDEXX Laboratories Inc stands impressively at 21.73, underscoring its strong capability to cover its interest obligations. This robust financial position resonates with the wisdom of legendary investor Benjamin Graham, who favored companies with an interest coverage ratio of at least 5. With an Altman Z-Score of 18.34, IDEXX Laboratories Inc exhibits a strong defense against financial distress, highlighting its robust financial stability. With a favorable Debt-to-Revenue ratio of 0.33, IDEXX Laboratories Inc's strategic handling of debt solidifies its financial health.

Profitability Rank Breakdown

The Profitability Rank shows IDEXX Laboratories Inc's impressive standing among its peers in generating profit. IDEXX Laboratories Inc Operating Margin has increased (20.23%) over the past five years, as shown by the following data: 2018: 22.20; 2019: 22.97; 2020: 25.66; 2021: 28.99; 2022: 26.69. Furthermore, IDEXX Laboratories Inc's Gross Margin has seen a consistent rise over the past five years, as evidenced by the data: 2018: 56.10; 2019: 56.73; 2020: 58.04; 2021: 58.76; 2022: 59.52. This trend underscores the company's growing proficiency in transforming revenue into profit. The Piotroski F-Score confirms IDEXX Laboratories Inc's solid financial situation based on Joseph Piotroski's nine-point scale, which measures a company's profitability, funding and operating efficiency. IDEXX Laboratories Inc's strong Predictability Rank of 5.0 stars out of five underscores its consistent operational performance, providing investors with increased confidence.

Growth Rank Breakdown

Ranked highly in Growth, IDEXX Laboratories Inc demonstrates a strong commitment to expanding its business. The company's 3-Year Revenue Growth Rate is 13.1%, which outperforms better than 56.44% of 202 companies in the Medical Diagnostics & Research industry. Moreover, IDEXX Laboratories Inc has seen a robust increase in its earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization (EBITDA) over the past few years. Specifically, the three-year growth rate stands at 17.8, and the rate over the past five years is 18.2. This trend accentuates the company's continued capability to drive growth.

Unpacking the Financial Strength and Growth Potential of IDEXX Laboratories Inc (IDXX)

Conclusion

Given IDEXX Laboratories Inc's strong financial strength, profitability, and growth metrics, the GuruFocus Score Rating highlights the firm's unparalleled position for potential outperformance. This analysis underscores the company's robust financial health, consistent profitability, and impressive growth trajectory, making it a compelling investment opportunity. GuruFocus Premium members can find more companies with strong GF Scores using the following screener link: GF Score Screen

This article first appeared on GuruFocus.


Best Buy Co Inc (NYSE:BBY) recently reported a daily gain of 5.25% and a 3-month gain of 0.85%, with an Earnings Per Share (EPS) (EPS) of 5.91. This performance has led to questions about whether the stock is modestly undervalued. In this article, we delve into a comprehensive valuation analysis of Best Buy Co to answer this question.

Company Introduction

Best Buy Co, the largest pure-play consumer electronics retailer in the U.S., reported consolidated sales of $46.3 billion in fiscal 2023. With a market share of roughly 8.5% in the U.S. and over 35% in offline sales, the company's business is primarily in-store, focusing on mobile phones, tablets, computers, and appliances. Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, recent investments in e-commerce fulfillment have seen the U.S. e-commerce channel double, with management estimating it will represent a mid-30% proportion of sales moving forward. The current stock price is $77.96, and the GF Value is $102.79, suggesting that the stock might be modestly undervalued.

Unveiling Best Buy Co (BBY)'s Value: Is It Really Priced Right? A Comprehensive Guide

Understanding the GF Value

The GF Value is a proprietary measure that represents the current intrinsic value of a stock. It's calculated based on historical multiples, a GuruFocus adjustment factor based on past performance and growth, and future business performance estimates. The GF Value Line on our summary page gives an overview of the fair value that the stock should be traded at.

According to our valuation method, Best Buy Co (NYSE:BBY) appears to be modestly undervalued. The stock's fair value is estimated based on historical multiples, an internal adjustment based on the company's past business growth, and analyst estimates of future business performance. If the share price is significantly above the GF Value Line, the stock may be overvalued and have poor future returns. Conversely, if the share price is significantly below the GF Value calculation, the stock may be undervalued and have higher future returns.

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Given that Best Buy Co is relatively undervalued, the long-term return of its stock is likely to be higher than its business growth.

Unveiling Best Buy Co (BBY)'s Value: Is It Really Priced Right? A Comprehensive Guide

Link: These companies may deliver higher future returns at reduced risk.

Financial Strength of Best Buy Co

It's always important to check the financial strength of a company before buying its stock. Investing in companies with poor financial strength can lead to a higher risk of permanent loss. Looking at the cash-to-debt ratio and interest coverage is a great way to understand the financial strength of a company. Best Buy Co has a cash-to-debt ratio of 0.26, which is worse than 63.32% of 1096 companies in the Retail - Cyclical industry. The overall financial strength of Best Buy Co is 7 out of 10, which indicates that the financial strength of Best Buy Co is fair.

Unveiling Best Buy Co (BBY)'s Value: Is It Really Priced Right? A Comprehensive Guide

Profitability and Growth

Companies that have been consistently profitable over the long term offer less risk for investors who may want to purchase shares. Higher profit margins usually dictate a better investment compared to a company with lower profit margins. Best Buy Co has been profitable 10 over the past 10 years. Over the past twelve months, the company had a revenue of $45.10 billion and Earnings Per Share (EPS) of $5.91. Its operating margin is 3.95%, which ranks better than 52.74% of 1096 companies in the Retail - Cyclical industry. Overall, the profitability of Best Buy Co is ranked 8 out of 10, which indicates strong profitability.

Growth is probably one of the most important factors in the valuation of a company. If a company's business is growing, it usually creates value for its shareholders, especially if the growth is profitable. Conversely, if a company's revenue and earnings are declining, the value of the company will decrease. Best Buy Co's 3-year average revenue growth rate is better than 63.8% of 1047 companies in the Retail - Cyclical industry. Best Buy Co's 3-year average EBITDA growth rate is 4.3%, which ranks worse than 58.71% of 901 companies in the Retail - Cyclical industry.

ROIC vs WACC

Another way to look at the profitability of a company is to compare its return on invested capital and the weighted cost of capital. Return on invested capital (ROIC) measures how well a company generates cash flow relative to the capital it has invested in its business. The weighted average cost of capital (WACC) is the rate that a company is expected to pay on average to all its security holders to finance its assets. We want to have the return on invested capital higher than the weighted cost of capital. For the past 12 months, Best Buy Co's return on invested capital is 15.14, and its cost of capital is 8.81.

Unveiling Best Buy Co (BBY)'s Value: Is It Really Priced Right? A Comprehensive Guide

Conclusion

Overall, Best Buy Co (NYSE:BBY) stock appears to be modestly undervalued. The company's financial condition is fair, and its profitability is strong. However, its growth ranks worse than 58.71% of 901 companies in the Retail - Cyclical industry. To learn more about Best Buy Co stock, you can check out its 30-Year Financials here.

To find out the high-quality companies that may deliver above-average returns, please check out the GuruFocus High Quality Low Capex Screener.

This article first appeared on GuruFocus.


Global Payments Inc (NYSE:GPN) has seen a daily gain of 2.94%, with a 3-month gain of 25.65%. With an Earnings Per Share (EPS) of 3, the question arises: is the stock modestly undervalued? This article presents a valuation analysis of Global Payments, providing a deeper insight into its intrinsic value. We invite you to explore the following analysis.

Company Introduction

Global Payments is a leading provider of payment processing and software solutions, focusing on serving small and midsize merchants. The company operates in 30 countries and generates about one fourth of its revenue from outside North America, primarily in Europe and Asia. In 2019, Global Payments merged with Total System Services in an all-stock deal that gave Total System Services shareholders 48% of the combined company's shares. The merger added issuer processing operations.

Comparing the stock price and the GF Value, an estimation of fair value, provides a deeper exploration of the company's value. This approach ingeniously integrates financial assessment with essential company details.

Unveiling Global Payments (GPN)'s Value: Is It Really Priced Right? A Comprehensive Guide

GF Value Summary

The GF Value represents the current intrinsic value of a stock derived from our exclusive method. The GF Value Line on our summary page gives an overview of the fair value that the stock should be traded at. It is calculated based on three factors:

Historical multiples (PE Ratio, PS Ratio, PB Ratio and Price-to-Free-Cash-Flow) that the stock has traded at. GuruFocus adjustment factor based on the company's past returns and growth. Future estimates of the business performance.

We believe the GF Value Line is the fair value that the stock should be traded at. The stock price will most likely fluctuate around the GF Value Line. If the stock price is significantly above the GF Value Line, it is overvalued and its future return is likely to be poor. On the other hand, if it is significantly below the GF Value Line, its future return will likely be higher.

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Global Payments (NYSE:GPN) is estimated to be modestly undervalued based on GuruFocus' valuation method. GF Value estimates the stock's fair value based on three key factors: historical multiples, an internal adjustment based on the company's past business growth, and analyst estimates of future business performance. If the stock's share price is significantly above the GF Value Line, the stock may be overvalued and have poor future returns. On the other hand, if the stock's share price is significantly below the GF Value Line, the stock may be undervalued and have high future returns. At its current price of $125.29 per share, Global Payments has a market cap of $32.60 billion and the stock is estimated to be modestly undervalued.

Because Global Payments is relatively undervalued, the long-term return of its stock is likely to be higher than its business growth.

Unveiling Global Payments (GPN)'s Value: Is It Really Priced Right? A Comprehensive Guide

Link: These companies may deliver higher future returns at reduced risk.

This article first appeared on GuruFocus.


US Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo said U.S. companies have complained to her that China has become "uninvestible," pointing to fines, raids and other actions that have made it risky to do business in the world's second-largest economy.

The comments, made to reporters aboard a high-speed train as her delegation of U.S. officials headed from Beijing to Shanghai, provided a bleak picture of how American firms view China and was the bluntest Raimondo has made on her trip.

"Increasingly I hear from American business that China is uninvestible because it's become too risky," she said. Raimondo said American firms are facing new challenges, among them "exorbitant fines without any explanation, revisions to the counterespionage law, which are unclear and sending shockwaves through the U.S. community; raids on businesses  a whole new level of challenge and we need that to be addressed."

She said there was "no rationale given" for Chinese actions against chipmaker Micron Technology, whose products were restricted by Beijing earlier this year and rejected any comparisons to U.S. export controls. "There has been limited due process, and that's why I brought it up."

The Chinese embassy in Washington did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

The commerce secretary is the latest Biden administration official to visit China in a bid to strengthen communications, particularly on economy and defense, amid concerns that friction between the two superpowers could spiral out of control.

Raimondo insists the United States does not want to decouple from China. "We can't have all our eggs in one basket," she added.

John Ramig, a partner at law firm Buchalter who has decades of expertise in international business transactions including the structuring of international sourcing and manufacturing operations, said before Raimondo's remarks that many businesses are not looking to expand in China.

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"I don't have one client wanting to invest in China. Not a single client. Everyone is looking to either sell their Chinese operation, or if they're sourcing products in China, they're looking for an alternative place to do that. That's dramatically different from what it was even five years ago.

Earlier in the day, Raimondo told Chinese Premier Li Qiang at their meeting in the Great Hall of the People: "There are other areas of global concern, such as climate change, artificial intelligence, the fentanyl crisis, where we want to work with you as two global powers to do what's right for all of humanity."

Companies have been at the center of a power struggle between the two countries for several years. China has criticized U.S. efforts to block China's access to advanced semiconductors through export controls, while the U.S. says curbs are needed to defend its national security.

The United States is also using electric vehicle tax policies to prod carmakers to shift supply chains out of China, investing billions in subsidies to boost American semiconductor production and taking other actions to move some U.S. investments away from China including a new executive order.

At the same time, Beijing is restricting shipments from prominent chip company Micron, failed to give timely approval to Intel Corp's deal to buy another chipmaker that effectively killed the acquisition, and raided and fined U.S. firm Mintz Group $1.5 million for doing "unapproved statistical work." Boeing has also been unable to deliver, and get paid for, 85 737 MAX jets ordered by Chinese customers years ago, which she previously blamed on the Chinese government.

The United States and China used to be each other's largest trading partners but Washington now trades more with neighbors Canada and Mexico, while Beijing deals more with Southeast Asia.

"All of that creates uncertainty and unpredictability," Raimondo said of recent Chinese actions. "So businesses look for other opportunities, they look for other countries, they look for other places to go." Referring to both old and new business restrictions, Raimondo said, "The sum total of which is making China feel too risky for them invest."

The comments could rile Chinese officials. JP Morgan last year called Chinese internet companies uninvestible in a research note, a label which helped trigger a sharp fall in their stock prices, but later said the term had been used in error.

Raimondo said she did not receive any commitments on Boeing, Intel or Micron. "I was very firm in our expectations. I think I was heard," Raimondo said. "We have to see if they take an action."

(Reporting by David Shepardson; additional reporting by Joe Cash and Samuel Shen in Shanghai; editing by Clarence Fernandez, Angus MacSwan, Mark Heinrich, Jonathan Oatis and Nick Macfie)
WEST CHESTER, Pa., August 29, 2023--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Venerable Holdings, Inc. ("Venerable") today announced plans to establish a Venerable-owned registered investment adviser ("VIA") and a variable insurance trust ("VIT") comprised of mutual funds managed by VIA that will serve as investment options for insurance company separate accounts. This initiative is part of our ongoing effort to grow and optimize our business and furthers our mission to provide innovative risk transfer solutions to companies with variable annuity blocks. Over time, the VIT will bring the management of the mutual funds underlying Venerable Insurance and Annuity Companys variable annuity business in-house, similar to the framework used by most major variable annuity companies in the industry.

Tim Brown, EVP and Chief Legal Officer for Venerable, has been named President of the VIA. In his expanded role, Brown will lead the stand up and operation of the VIA and will also continue leading Venerables Law and Compliance teams.

Additionally, Venerable has hired Michal Levy as Head of VIA and Adrea Scaramucci as SVP and Chief Compliance Officer, VIA.

Levy joins Venerable from Equitable, where she recently held the position of President, Equitable Investment Management and was responsible for approximately $110bn of assets under management across more than 120 investment options. In addition, Levy oversaw all aspects of investment management including strategy, product development, portfolio management, fund administration, operations, risk management, performance, and board relations.

Scaramucci joins Venerable after having served as Senior Principal Consultant and Outsourced CCO for the ACA Group. During her tenure, Scaramucci was a trusted advisor to executive leadership and led a team of compliance professionals providing services to investment advisers managing registered investment companies, private debt funds, CLOs, private equity funds, hedge funds, and separately managed accounts for institutional clients across multiple strategies and asset classes. Prior to ACA Global, Scaramucci served as the Chief Compliance Officer of Drexel Morgan Capital Advisers.

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Levy and Scaramucci will report directly to Brown.

"As an organization, Venerable continues to demonstrate a keen ability to execute on challenging and innovative business initiatives like this one," said David Marcinek, Chairman and CEO of Venerable. "I have the utmost confidence in Tim, our newly named VIA leaders, and the project team to drive this endeavor."

About Venerable

Venerable is a privately held company with business operations based in West Chester, Pennsylvania and Des Moines, Iowa. Venerable owns and manages legacy variable annuity business acquired from other entities. Created by an investor group led by affiliates of Apollo Global Management, Inc., Crestview Partners, Reverence Capital Partners, and Athene Holdings, Ltd., Venerable is a business with well-established, strategic investors, experienced in successfully building and growing insurance businesses with patient, long-term capital. For more information, please visit www.venerable.com.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230829658114/en/

Contacts

Venerable

Allison Proud

Corporate Communications

+(610) 249-9730
Long-established in the Telecommunication Services industry, Verizon Communications Inc (NYSE:VZ) has enjoyed a stellar reputation. It has recently witnessed a surge of 2.81%, juxtaposed with a three-month change of 0.26%. However, fresh insights from the GuruFocus Score Rating hint at potential headwinds. Notably, its diminished rankings in financial strength, growth, and valuation suggest that the company might not live up to its historical performance. Join us as we dive deep into these pivotal metrics to unravel the evolving narrative of Verizon Communications Inc.

Verizon Communications Inc (VZ): A Deep Dive into Its Performance Potential

Understanding the GF Score

The GF Score is a stock performance ranking system developed by GuruFocus using five aspects of valuation, which has been found to be closely correlated to the long-term performances of stocks by backtesting from 2006 to 2021. The stocks with a higher GF Score generally generate higher returns than those with a lower GF Score. Therefore, when picking stocks, investors should invest in companies with high GF Scores. The GF Score ranges from 0 to 100, with 100 as the highest rank.

Based on the above method, GuruFocus assigned Verizon Communications Inc the GF Score of 69 out of 100, which signals poor future outperformance potential.

Verizon Communications Inc: A Snapshot

Verizon Communications Inc, with a market cap of $145.002 billion, primarily operates in the wireless business, contributing about 70% of service revenue and nearly all operating income. It serves about 92 million postpaid and 22 million prepaid phone customers via its nationwide network, making it the largest U.S. wireless carrier. Fixed-line telecom operations include local networks in the Northeast, which reach about 25 million homes and businesses and serve about 8 million broadband customers. Verizon also provides telecom services nationwide to enterprise customers, often using a mixture of its own and other carriers' networks.

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Verizon Communications Inc (VZ): A Deep Dive into Its Performance Potential

Financial Strength Analysis

Verizon Communications Inc's financial strength indicators present some concerning insights about the company's balance sheet health. The company's Altman Z-Score is just 1.21, which is below the distress zone of 1.81. This suggests that the company may face financial distress over the next few years. Additionally, the company's low cash-to-debt ratio at 0.03 indicates a struggle in handling existing debt levels.

Growth Prospects

A lack of significant growth is another area where Verizon Communications Inc seems to falter, as evidenced by the company's low Growth rank. Lastly, Verizon Communications Inc predictability rank is just one star out of five, adding to investor uncertainty regarding revenue and earnings consistency.

Verizon Communications Inc (VZ): A Deep Dive into Its Performance Potential

Conclusion

Given the company's financial strength, profitability, and growth metrics, the GuruFocus Score Rating highlights the firm's unparalleled position for potential underperformance. While Verizon Communications Inc has a strong reputation in the telecommunications industry, its financial health and growth prospects may not be as robust as they appear. Therefore, investors should exercise caution and conduct thorough research before making investment decisions.

GuruFocus Premium members can find more companies with strong GF Scores using the following screener link: GF Score Screen

This article first appeared on GuruFocus.


West Red Lake Gold Mines Ltd

Section 1: Looking Southwest

FIGURE 2. Rowan Mine drill section showing assay highlights for Holes RLG-23-153, -156B, -157 and -158

Section 2: Looking Southwest

FIGURE 3. Rowan Mine drill section showing assay highlights for Holes RLG-23-154 and -155B

Rowan Project Section Location Plan

FIGURE 1. Deposit-scale plan map of Rowan Mine Target area showing traces and intercepts for holes highlighted in this News Release.

Vein 102 Long Section Looking North

FIGURE 5. Rowan Mine longitudinal section for Vein 102 showing 2023 intercepts > 4 g/t Au. Assay highlights from current press release shown in red

Vein 101 Long Section Looking North

FIGURE 4. Rowan Mine longitudinal section for Vein 101 showing 2023 intercepts > 4 g/t Au. Assay highlights from current press release shown in red

Vein 103 Long Section Looking North

FIGURE 6. Rowan Mine longitudinal section for Vein 103 showing 2023 intercepts > 4 g/t Au. Assay highlights from current press release shown in red

Rowan Project Location Map

Rowan Project Location Map

VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Aug. 29, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- West Red Lake Gold Mines Ltd. (West Red Lake Gold or WRLG or the Company) (TSXV:WRLG) (OTCQB: WRLGF) is pleased to report additional drill results from its Phase 1 exploration program on its 100% owned Rowan Property located in the prolific Red Lake Gold District of Northwestern Ontario, Canada. Hole RLG-23-153 intersected 66.66 grams per tonne (g/t) gold (Au) over 2.0 metres (m), when compared to much of the historical drilling, mineralized zones encountered in this years campaign demonstrate increased widths and continuity. The company has now completed 37 drill holes and 11,467 m of drilling to date of a 17,000 m drilling campaign that has been expanded to 25,000 m on the back of a very successful exploration season thus far.



HIGHLIGHTS:

Hole RLG-23-153 Intersected 2.0m @ 66.66 g/t Au , from 235m to 237m, Including 0.5m @ 266.27 g/t Au, from 235.5m to 236m.





Hole RLG-23-156B Intersected 3.11m @ 21.84 g/t Au , from 275m to 278.11m, Including 0.83m @ 77.64 g/t Au , from 277.28m to 278.11m.





Hole RLG-23-154 Intersected 10.1m @ 6.27 g/t Au, from 214.9m to 225m, Including 0.6m @ 84.13 g/t Au, from 223.45m to 224.05m.



Shane Williams, President & CEO, stated, "Our team is very impressed with the drill results coming out of the Rowan Mine target. What was previously believed to be a very narrow high-grade gold system continues to deliver results that demonstrate real potential for broader zones of high-grade gold mineralization which could prove advantageous for any future mining scenario. With every hole drilled at Rowan, not only does our confidence in this asset grow, but its viability as a potential future source of high-grade mill-feed for Madsen increases as well. In the mining industry it is very rare to have size and grade working in your favor, but at Rowan we are seeing both.

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The high-grade mineralized vein zones encountered at the Rowan Mine target area (the Rowan Mine Target) continue to exceed expectations, confirm the geologic model, and further improve the existing high-grade (9.2 g/t Au) 827,462 ounce Inferred Mineral Resource at the Rowan Mine. Sections for the Rowan Mine drilling outlined in this release are provided in Figures 1 through 6.

TABLE 1. Significant intercepts (>4 g/t Au) from drilling at Rowan Mine Target.

Hole ID Target Zone From (m) To (m) Thick (m)* Au (g/t) RLG-23-153 Rowan Mine V101 (hw)

235.00 237.00 2.00 66.66 Incl. Rowan Mine 235.50 236.00 0.50 266.27 AND Rowan Mine V101

253.95 255.10 1.15 27.61 Incl. Rowan Mine 253.95 254.60 0.65 48.58 AND Rowan Mine V101 276.65 277.15 0.50 81.44 RLG-23-154 Rowan Mine V102

214.90 225.00 10.10 6.27 Incl. Rowan Mine 223.45 224.05 0.60 84.13 RLG-23-155B Rowan Mine V103 146.50 147.00 0.50 4.24 AND Rowan Mine V102 (fw) 226.75 227.25 0.50 5.72 AND Rowan Mine V101 276.50 277.00 0.50 7.30 RLG-23-156B Rowan Mine V103 158.48 159.18 0.70 46.20 AND Rowan Mine V102 242.00 243.00 1.00 4.11 AND Rowan Mine V102 (fw)

275.00 278.11 3.11 21.84 Incl. Rowan Mine 277.28 278.11 0.83 77.64 AND Rowan Mine V101 311.60 312.10 0.50 25.42 RLG-23-157 Rowan Mine V103

212.50 214.00 1.50 7.29 Incl. Rowan Mine 213.40 214.00 0.60 10.49 AND Rowan Mine V102 255.16 256.00 0.84 6.16 AND Rowan Mine V102

259.00 262.00 3.00 4.24 Incl. Rowan Mine 260.27 260.77 0.50 11.31 AND Rowan Mine V102

284.88 290.00 5.12 4.07 Incl. Rowan Mine 284.88 286.00 1.12 10.37 RLG-23-158 Rowan Mine V103 (hw)

115.00 116.00 1.00 20.90 Incl. Rowan Mine 115.00 115.50 0.50 40.23 AND Rowan Mine V102 (fw)

255.50 256.65 1.15 8.54 Incl. Rowan Mine 255.50 256.00 0.50 17.80 AND Rowan Mine V102 (fw)

260.50 261.60 1.10 5.28 Incl. Rowan Mine 261.00 261.50 0.50 9.22

*The From-To intervals in Table 1 are denoting overall downhole length of the intercept. True thickness has not been calculated for these intercepts but is expected to be  70% of downhole thickness based on intercept angles observed in the drill core. Composite intervals do not cross sample boundaries < 0.1 g/t Au. Under Zone column, (hw) is indicating hanging wall to and (fw) is indicating footwall to main vein zones.

A total of 17,000m of infill and expansion drilling was originally proposed for the Rowan Mine target in 2023. Based on the positive results received to date, the program has been expanded to 25,000m and is expected to be completed by year end 2023. The additional drill meters will be used to continue de-risking the Rowan Mine resource, and test the growth potential down-plunge on the highest-grade portions of the resource. Current drilling at Rowan has only tested mineralization down to a depth of approximately 550m. All of the high-grade zones still remain open below this vertical depth. The Red Lake Mining District is known to host orebodies that extend down to +4 kilometre (km) depth, which bodes well for the down-plunge growth potential at Rowan.

It is the Companys belief that potential synergies could exist between high-grade resources at the Rowan Mine target area and Madsen. The Company has initiated a metallurgical study at Rowan to begin evaluating this potential opportunity, as well as a geotechnical study to better characterize the rock mass properties within the mineralized vein zones at Rowan.

In conjunction with infill and expansion drilling, the Company is also initiating the necessary baseline environmental and archaeological assessments to begin moving the project towards an Advanced Exploration Permit status.

Figure 1. Rowan Project Section Locator Plan West_Red_Lake_PlanMap





FIGURE 1. Deposit-scale plan map of Rowan Mine Target area showing traces and intercepts for holes highlighted in this News Release.



TABLE 2: Drill collar summary for holes reported in this News Release.

Hole ID Target Easting Northing Elev (m) Length (m) Azimuth Dip RLG-23-153 Rowan Mine 422171 5657799 365 363 339 -51 RLG-23-154 Rowan Mine 422171 5657799 365 450 330 -64.5 RLG-23-155B Rowan Mine 422171 5657799 365 381 330 -50 RLG-23-156B Rowan Mine 422171 5657799 365 408 338 -55 RLG-23-157 Rowan Mine 422171 5657799 365 471 340 -67 RLG-23-158 Rowan Mine 422171 5657799 365 375 346 -58



DISCUSSION

The Rowan Mine Target consists of more than seven sub-parallel, near-vertical, east-west trending veins that are currently defined over a strike length of approximately 1.1 km  mineralization remains open along strike and at depth. The orientation of the veins at the Rowan Mine tend to follow the direction of D2 deformation, which is oriented in an east-west direction over this part of the property. Individual mineralized vein zones usually average 1.0 to 1.5m in thickness, with an overall thickness of the Rowan vein corridor at around 115m. Gold mineralization is typically localized within quartz-carbonate veins hosted within and along the footwall margin of a porphyritic felsic intrusive, with increased grades often associated with the presence of visible gold and base metal sulphides (e.g. galena, sphalerite). High-grade dilation zones or ore chutes along the Rowan vein trend have been recognized as important controls for localizing thicker and higher-grade zones of gold mineralization. The position and geometry of these dilation zones is well understood at Rowan.

The drilling completed at the Rowan Mine Target in 2023 has been focused on validating historical data across the Inferred Resource, and also infilling apparent gaps in the analytical data set which was a product of very selective sampling techniques implemented during previous drilling campaigns. Assay results received from the 2023 drilling program continue to confirm our thesis that quartz veining and gold mineralization continue at depth and along strike, with grades consistent with, or higher than those outlined in the current Inferred Mineral Resource which remains open in all directions. For example, the 100 Vein Zone - which is the furthest north vein currently modeled within the overall Rowan vein corridor - was previously interpreted to be a lower grade portion of the block model. Recent drilling has confirmed that higher grades are present within the 100 Vein Zone below 150m elevation, suggesting that gold grades are increasing at depth within this zone which is a trend that has been observed elsewhere in the Red Lake district. Drilling at the Rowan Mine Target area will continue with an emphasis on infill and expansion of the existing high-grade mineral resource.

Figure 2. Rowan Mine Drill Section 1-Looing Southwest-WRLG_Section1





FIGURE 2. Rowan Mine drill section showing assay highlights for Holes RLG-23-153, -156B, -157 and -158[1].

____________________________

1 Mineral Resources are estimated at a cut-off grade of 9.2 g/t Au and using a gold price of US$1,600/oz. Please refer to the technical report entitled Technical Report and Resource Estimate on the West Red Lake Project dated December 13, 2022 prepared for WRLG by John Kita, P.Eng., and filed December 30, 2022 on www.sedar.com.



Figure 3. Rowan Mine Drill Section 2 - Looking Southwest-WRLG_Section2





FIGURE 3. Rowan Mine drill section showing assay highlights for Holes RLG-23-154 and -155B[1].

____________________________

1 Mineral Resources are estimated at a cut-off grade of 9.2 g/t Au and using a gold price of US$1,600/oz. Please refer to the technical report entitled Technical Report and Resource Estimate on the West Red Lake Project dated December 13, 2022 prepared for WRLG by John Kita, P.Eng., and filed December 30, 2022 on www.sedar.com.

Figure 4. Rowan Mine Vein 101 Longitudinal Section-WRLG_LongSection101





FIGURE 4. Rowan Mine longitudinal section for Vein 101 showing 2023 intercepts > 4 g/t Au. Assay highlights from current press release shown in red[1].

____________________________

1 Mineral Resources are estimated at a cut-off grade of 9.2 g/t Au and using a gold price of US$1,600/oz. Please refer to the technical report entitled Technical Report and Resource Estimate on the West Red Lake Project dated December 13, 2022 prepared for WRLG by John Kita, P.Eng., and filed December 30, 2022 on www.sedar.com.

Figure 5. Rowan Mine Veing 102 Longitudinal Section-WRLG_LongSection102





FIGURE 5. Rowan Mine longitudinal section for Vein 102 showing 2023 intercepts > 4 g/t Au. Assay highlights from current press release shown in red[1].

____________________________

1 Mineral Resources are estimated at a cut-off grade of 9.2 g/t Au and using a gold price of US$1,600/oz. Please refer to the technical report entitled Technical Report and Resource Estimate on the West Red Lake Project dated December 13, 2022 prepared for WRLG by John Kita, P.Eng., and filed December 30, 2022 on www.sedar.com.

Figure 6. Rowan Mine Vein 103 Longitudinal Section-WRLG_LongSection103





FIGURE 6. Rowan Mine longitudinal section for Vein 103 showing 2023 intercepts > 4 g/t Au. Assay highlights from current press release shown in red[1].

____________________________

1 Mineral Resources are estimated at a cut-off grade of 9.2 g/t Au and using a gold price of US$1,600/oz. Please refer to the technical report entitled Technical Report and Resource Estimate on the West Red Lake Project dated December 13, 2022 prepared for WRLG by John Kita, P.Eng., and filed December 30, 2022 on www.sedar.com.

High resolution versions of all the figures contained in this press release can be found at the following web address: https://westredlakegold.com/august-28th-news-release-maps/.

Longitudinal sections showing all intercepts > 3 g/t Au on Veins 101, 102 and 103 can be viewed here: https://westredlakegold.com/august-1st-news-release-maps/.

QUALITY ASSURANCE/QUALITY CONTROL

Drilling completed at the Rowan Property consists of oriented NQ-sized diamond drill core. All drill holes are systematically logged, photographed, and sampled by a trained geologist at WRLGs Mt. Jamie core processing facility. Minimum allowable sample length is 0.5m. Maximum allowable sample length is 1.5m. Standard reference materials and blanks are inserted at a targeted 5% insertion rate. The drill core is then cut lengthwise utilizing a diamond blade core saw along a line pre-selected by the geologist. To reduce sampling bias, the same side of drill core is sampled consistently utilizing the orientation line as reference. For those samples containing visible gold (VG), a trained geologist supervises the cutting/bagging of those samples, and ensures the core saw blade is cleaned with a dressing stone following the VG sample interval. Bagged samples are then sealed with zip ties and transported by WRLG personnel directly to SGS Natural Resources Facility in Red Lake, Ontario for assay.

Samples are then prepped by SGS, which consists of drying at 105C and crushing to 75% passing 2mm. A riffle splitter is then utilized to produce a 500g course reject for archive. The remainder of the sample is then pulverized to 85% passing 75 microns from which 50g is analyzed by fire assay and an atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS) finish. Samples returning gold values > 5 g/t Au are reanalyzed by fire assay with a gravimetric finish on a 50g sample. Samples with visible gold are also analyzed via metallic screen analysis (SGS code: GO_FAS50M). For multi-element analysis, samples are sent to SGSs facility in Burnaby, British Columbia and analyzed via four-acid digest with an atomic emission spectroscopy (ICP-AES) finish for 33-element analysis on 0.25g sample pulps (SGS code: GE_ICP40Q12). SGS Natural Resources analytical laboratories operates under a Quality Management System that complies with ISO/IEC 17025.

West Red Lake Golds Rowan Property presently hosts a National Instrument 43-101 (NI 43-101) Inferred Mineral Resource of 2,790,700 t at an average grade of 9.2 g/t Au containing 827,462 ounces of gold with a cut-off grade of 3.8 g/t Au (NI 43-101 Technical Report authored by John Kita, P.Eng., dated December 13, 2022 and filed December 30, 2022 on www.sedar.com). The Inferred Mineral Resource is located in the area of the historic underground Rowan Mine site and situated within a 1.8 km strike length portion of the regional scale Pipestone Bay St Paul Deformation Zone.

The technical information presented in this news release has been reviewed and approved by Will Robinson, P.Geo., Vice President of Exploration for West Red Lake Gold and the Qualified Person for exploration at the West Red Lake Project, as defined by NI 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects.

DEFERRED CONSIDERATION PAYMENT TO SPROTT

On August 24, 2023 the Company issued 2,400,000 common shares in the capital of the Company at deemed price of C$0.70 per common share as payment of US$1,250,838 to a fund managed by Sprott Resource Lending Corp (Sprott) for deferred consideration related to the Companys acquisition of Pure Gold Mining Inc. (the Obligation), and issued a replacement promissory note dated August 24, 2023 in the amount of US$5,533,094 to Sprott for the remaining Obligation.

MARKETING CONTRACT

Further to its news release of August 14, 2023, the Company clarifies terms of the marketing service agreement it has entered into with Gold Standard Media LLC (GSM) (the "Marketing Agreement").. The Marketing Agreement has a twelve-month term, which commences on the later of August 9, 2023, and the approval of the TSXV, and has an upfront payment of US$500,000 payable to GSM upon the approval of the TSXV.

Marketing services to be provided by GSM will include email marketing campaigns, landing pages, advertisements, and other related services to assist the Company in raising its public awareness and online presence. GSM may engage its affiliates including Future Money Trends, Wealth Research Group LLC and Portfolio Wealth Global LLC to provide these marketing services.

GSM is a limited liability company existing under the laws of the State of Texas with an office at 723 W, University Ave. #110-283 Georgetown Texas and is owned and operated by Kenneth Ameduri, Juliet Ameduri, and Lior Gantz, each of who are arm's length to the Company. GSM nor its affiliates directly or indirectly hold any securities of the Company.

None of the Company or its officers are involved directly with the creation of the materials distributed by GSM. The Company will provide GSM with publicly available source information for their disclosure and the Company will be involved in reviewing the materials for accuracy prior to dissemination.

ABOUT WEST RED LAKE GOLD MINES

West Red Lake Gold Mines Ltd. is a mineral exploration company that is publicly traded and focused on advancing and developing its flagship Madsen Gold Mine and the associated 47 km2 highly prospective land package in the Red Lake district of Ontario. The highly productive Red Lake Gold District of Northwest Ontario, Canada has yielded over 30 million ounces of gold from high-grade zones and hosts some of the world's richest gold deposits. WRLG also holds the wholly owned Rowan Property in Red Lake, with an expansive property position covering 31 km2 including three past producing gold mines - Rowan, Mount Jamie, and Red Summit.

rowan map





ON BEHALF OF WEST RED LAKE GOLD MINES LTD.

Shane Williams

Shane Williams

President & Chief Executive Officer

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:

Amandip Singh, VP Corporate Development

Tel: 416-203-9181

Email: investors@westredlakegold.com or visit the Companys website at https://www.westredlakegold.com

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Certain statements contained in this news release constitute "forward-looking statements". When used in this document, the words "anticipated", "expect", "estimated", "forecast", "planned", and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements or information. These statements are based on current expectations of management, however, they are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from the forward-looking statements in this news release. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these statements. West Red Lake Gold Mines Ltd. does not undertake any obligation to revise or update any forward- looking statements as a result of new information, future events or otherwise after the date hereof, except as required by securities laws.



Photos accompanying this announcement are available at:

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/fb7902bc-4717-45a7-b550-0bc298c47725

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/ea3576f1-480b-4b61-8732-0c938a30a8bd

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/f7415987-6056-4975-b03a-fa4ca9be39e2

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/6c9e4092-762c-4b5c-b813-e6062bc86927

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/33a85678-30b0-40eb-b798-cbe02bf853fd

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/71bc4522-7a74-4222-9c98-a499b0e7791b

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/c2b0b3b6-1221-483d-9864-4d90b6bcef6a




Russias war in Ukraine has entered a standoff phase, with neither side able to make a decisive military move and neither willing to start negotiating a settlement, either.

So what might change the outlook?

One thing is the 2024 US presidential election. Analysts think Russian President Vladimir Putin is biding for time, hoping former President Donald Trump, the leading Republican contender, gets another term in the White House. Trump has suggested he would reduce or end US military aid to Ukraine, whereas President Biden has said his administration will stand with Ukraine for as long as it takes.

Obviously, Putin is waiting for the outcome of the U.S. 2024 presidential election, Michael McFaul, who served as US ambassador to Russia under President Obama, wrote on Substack recently. If Mr. Trump is reelected, Putin has reason to believe that he could strike a much better deal on Ukraine. So why would he enter negotiations now?

Putin, in fact, has much more reason to pull for a Trump victory now than in 2016, when he directed Russian agents to use fake social media accounts and other tools to damage Hillary Clintons campaign and aid Trumps. Back then, Putin favored Trump over Clinton because he thought Trumps threatened trade wars and other unorthodox policies might rupture American relations with some of its allies, boosting Russias interests.

Putin got what he was after.

As president, Trump slapped new tariffs on Canadian and European imports and became a loud in-house critic of the NATO military alliance, blasting many European nations for underspending on defense. At a summit meeting in Finland in 2018, Trump was practically subservient to Putin. Then came Trumps effort to overturn his 2020 election loss to Biden, followed by the Trump-inspired riots at the US Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021. In some ways, Russias superpower foe never looked weaker.

But the stakes are far higher for Putin now, given that his disastrous invasion of Ukraine last year has led to the decimation of Russias army and international sanctions that are throttling the Russian economy. The United States, under Biden, has been the indispensable leader of the global effort to aid Ukraine militarily and economically. Ukraine wouldnt necessarily collapse without American support, but it would probably have no hope of driving Russian forces out or even maintaining existing territorial lines.

Story continues

Gas prices

Since Putin tried to influence the US election outcome in 2016, what might he do in 2024 to help Trump or another Republican win the White House? The answer may involve one of Bidens biggest political vulnerabilities: gasoline prices. Bidens approval rating tumbled as gas prices approached a new peak of $5 per gallon in June of 2022. Gas prices have since fallen back to around $3.80, but Bidens approval rating has been stuck in the low 40% range nonetheless. To have comfortable odds of reelection, an incumbent president should have a minimum approval rating of 45% or so, and preferably 50%. Biden appears to be in the danger zone.

[Drop Rick Newman a note, follow him on Twitter, or sign up for his newsletter.]

Putin has tried to weaponize Russias oil and natural gas exports throughout the war, and he could do so to influence the 2024 US election. Russia is still the worlds second-largest oil exporter, after Saudi Arabia. Because of sanctions, Russia now sells less oil to Europe and more to China and India. But oil is a global commodity, and changes in supply or demand anywhere affect prices everywhere. So the question is whether Russia could pull enough oil from the market to push up US gasoline prices in a way that would harm Bidens reelection odds.

Is help for Putin on the way? Then-US President Donald Trump with Russian President Vladimir Putin at the G20 Summit in Osaka, Japan, in 2019. (Kevin Lamarque/REUTERS)

Its plausible. Russia desperately needs oil revenue to continue financing its costly war. Yet it has already cut oil production by about 300,000 barrels per day this year, in conjunction with a production cut by Saudi Arabia of roughly 1 million barrels per day. Those cuts have helped push global oil prices up by about $10 per barrel this summer. Some oil-producing nations can make more money with less production if demand is solid and prices rise, which is what has happened this year.

There are signs the Biden administration is aware of the risk.

Research firm ClearView Energy Partners pointed out in an Aug. 6 report that the Biden administration is quietly working with several oil-producing nations  including some unfriendly ones  to bring more crude on to the global market.

Between now and the November 2024 Presidential election, we think President Joe Bidens energy policy is likely to prioritize affordable gasoline prices, ClearView analysts wrote. Fuel cost sensitivities also appear to coincide with  outreach to Saudi Arabia  and a combination of rapprochement and realpolitik with three heavily sanctioned U.S. rivalsIran, Venezuela and Russia.

As a candidate in 2019, Biden called Saudi Arabia a pariah nation because of the apparent state-ordered murder and dismemberment the year before of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi, who lived in the United States at the time and wrote for the Washington Post. But Biden is now working with Saudi Arabia to help normalize its relations with Israel and pursue other national goals. That could include an unstated agreement for the kingdom to produce more oil if prices get too high amid Bidens reelection campaign.

A Saudi-Israel deal with expanded US security guarantees could have the effect of making Riyadh more receptive to White House concerns regarding market tightness, ClearView explained.

Last year, the Biden administration allowed more oil from Venezuela to flow to the United States, which is now happening. Theres also been a tacit thaw between the United States and Iran, with Iranian oil production hitting the highest levels in at least five years  and more production expected.

As for Russia, the Biden administration has so far refused to lower the price cap on Russian oil that the advanced nations known as the G7 imposed last December.

Under that voluntary agreement, the nations that provide most of the insurance and maritime services for the worlds oil tankers cant work with anybody shipping Russian oil at prices above $60 per barrel. Yet the average price paid for Russian oil has risen above that and is now around $67, mainly because Russia is finding ways around the G7 collar and the price of Russian oil is rising along with the price of all other oil. Critics of the deal want the G7 to lower the price cap to $50 or less, but the Biden administration doesnt want to risk a drop in the global supply of oil  even from Russia.

Additional American oil supply is also helping, with US drillers expected to produce a new record high of 13 million barrels per day by 2024, according to the Energy Information Administration. Unlike most OPEC nations, however, the US government doesnt control domestic energy production. Private-sector firms do, and theyll only produce more if theyre confident the added cost will generate a profitable return.

Biden does have one tool for lowering energy prices: oil releases from the nations strategic reserve. But Biden already released 180 million barrels in 2022, and the reserve is now at the lowest level since 1983. Biden might drain whats left in the reserve if his political future depended on it, but hed also draw criticism for tapping an emergency reserve for political purposes.

Its safe to assume that Putin knows Bidens electoral vulnerabilities, and Biden knows he knows. So while Biden prepares to take on Trump or another Republican, there may be an other brawl waged in the shadows.

Rick Newman is a senior columnist for Yahoo Finance. Follow him on Twitter at @rickjnewman.

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Ambulance workers rushing to help patients transport to hospital.

After a car accident, drivers frequently wonder, "Does car insurance cover medical bills?"

Its a good question because auto insurers separate medical payments coverages, which can make it difficult to understand just whats covered and when.

Heres a short answer: If an accident is your fault, only the occupants of other cars  or pedestrians or cyclists  are covered under the bodily injury portion of your liability car insurance. This is why liability insurance is almost always required  to protect others. That liability coverage, however, does not extend to you or your passengers.

Even full coverage car insurance, which includes collision insurance and comprehensive insurance to repair your car, does not cover injuries to the people in your car. For that, you will need to have medical payments coverage, personal injury protection (PIP), or both.

What is medical payments coverage?

MedPay is shorthand for medical payments insurance. It is typically an optional auto insurance coverage that covers your own injuries, or those of your passengers, no matter who is at fault in an accident. It also pays for medical expenses if you were injured as a pedestrian or in someone elses car.

What (and who) does MedPay cover?

If youre involved in an accident, even if youre not at fault, medical payments coverage can kick in to cover you and your passengers for medical costs like:

Doctor visits

Hospital stays

Nursing services and care

EMT services and ambulance fees

Health insurance deductibles and co-pays

X-rays, surgery, dental care, and prostheses

Funeral costs

MedPay is subject to coverage limits depending on your state and the specifics of your policy. Policy limits commonly range from $1,000 to $10,000. Providers like Allstate and Progressive recommend using your healthcare coverage as a metric for how much MedPay coverage you need: Choose MedPay coverage at least equal to your health insurance deductible  higher if you dont have health insurance.

What is an example of medical payments coverage?

Lets say a car in front of you stops short on the highway, causing you to slam into it from behind. Youre taken by ambulance to the hospital, where you are X-rayed, treated  and sent home with a $3,000 hospital bill. Your health insurance will most likely be billed first, but that still leaves you with a $1,000 deductible and a $500 ambulance charge that isnt covered under your health insurance policy.

If you have MedPay coverage, you can immediately file a claim with your own insurance company, without having to wait for the off chance that the other drivers insurance might assume liability and pay your medical expenses. MedPay coverage will pick up the tab for the outstanding $1,500.

What is the difference between MedPay and PIP?

MedPay is available in almost every state, whereas personal injury protection, or PIP, is only available in 21 states and the District of Columbia. Personal injury protection, sometimes called no-fault car insurance, is typically used in no-fault states, which restrict a drivers ability to sue if damages dont reach a certain threshold.

MedPay typically covers only direct medical and funeral expenses, whereas PIP also covers related costs, such as lost wages, childcare expenses, or the cost of other at-home services. For this reason, PIP is usually more expensive. PIP also carries a car insurance deductible, whereas MedPay usually does not.

What states have MedPay?

Most states offer MedPay, and MedPay is required in three:

Maine, where drivers must carry a minimum of $2,000 per person;

New Hampshire, where drivers who carry personal auto insurance must have a minimum of $1,000 in medical payments coverage; and

Pennsylvania, where drivers who opt out of no-fault, personal injury protection rules must carry at least $5,000 in MedPay.

MedPay is not offered in Minnesota, New York, North Dakota, and Oregon, all of which offer personal injury protection.

Is MedPay worth it?

MedPay works in conjunction with personal injury protection and health insurance. If you already have PIP, then you probably dont need to add MedPay, which is less comprehensive.

Similarly, if you have good health insurance you may not need MedPay for yourself. But keep in mind that MedPay can help with out-of-pocket costs like deductibles and copays.

And if you are frequently carrying passengers, however, adding MedPay coverage to your car insurance policy can offer another layer of protection.
August has seen the kickoff of the school year and of Cafe Book, the long-standing partnership between school and public librarians where at the 17 participating middle schools, seventh and eighth grade students engage in lively and thoughtful discussions about books from a list of selected titles. Ranging from real-life stories to fantasy and science fiction, students will vote on their favorites at the end of the semester to contribute to a Top Picks list.

Simon Sort of Says by Erin Bow. After Simon experiences a tragic event that leads him to become internet famous in a not-so-good way, Simon and his family move to Grin and Bear It, Nebraska, where all electronic devices are banned as they might interfere with the work of the local astrophysicists looking for evidence of life on other planets. Since no one can Google Simon in Grin and Bear It, he is optimistic about starting over. As he works through his trauma, Simon makes friends and has some madcap, hilarious experiences.

Serwa Boatengs Guide to Vampire Hunting by Roseanne A. Brown. Serwa has spent her entire life traveling the world with her family hunting adze, shapeshifting Ghanaian vampires. But when their family home is attacked by a powerful witch, Serwas parents decide the safest thing to do is drop her off in Maryland with her non-magical aunt, where she will, for the first time in her life, attend a regular school. But when an adze shows up at her school, its up to Serwa and her band of misfit friends to save their town.

Project Nought by Chelsea Furedi. Teenager Ren is living his life in the 1990s, when then one day he wakes up in a lab in the year 2122. He is confused and disoriented and the explanation, that he has been brought to the future as part of a time travel exchange program, doesnt make him feel any better. He doesnt understand how he became part of this project and as he tries to figure it out, it becomes quickly apparent that there is a sinister angle to the program.

Clock Striker by Issaka Galadima. Cast is determined to become a SMITH, a legendary class of engineering warriors, so she can use her knack for science and math to help people, starting with her own family. This manga-style graphic novels illustrated action sequences contribute to the fast pace of this adventure story, as Cast is thrown into one deadly situation after another.

Invisible by Christina Diaz Gonzalez. When George, who is Puerto Rican, is assigned community service hours working in his school cafeteria, he expects to be working with other honors and gifted students. Instead, he finds four other students who have nothing in common except that their teachers and school officials have all stereotyped them. While doing their community service hours, they encounter a family that is in a precarious living situation and have to decide if they will work together to help them.

Girl Forgotten by April Henry. When true-crime fan Piper Gray comes across the gravestone of Layla Trello, a girl who died at age 17, she decides to dig into the unsolved murder. As Piper reveals her findings in episodes of her podcast, someone begins threatening her and warning her to back off. Understanding that Laylas killer may still be out there, Piper doesnt let that stop her from searching for the truth about Laylas death.

Ablaze by Christopher Krovatin. Meek Aly tries to get through life and avoid bullying by keeping her head down and not getting noticed. Alys life changes dramatically when her pent-up anger begins causing things to burst into flames and she discovers she has pyrokinetic abilities.

Once There Was by Kiyash Monsef. After her fathers mysterious death, 15-year-old Marjan is doing her best to keep his struggling veterinarian practice afloat. When she learns that her father was not only a vet for average household pets but also cared for magical creatures, she needs to make a decision about whether to take his place in the underground world of folkloric animals.

Frizzy by Claribel A. Ortega. Marlene, a Dominican middle schooler, has always had bad hair. Her mother and hairstylists complain about how hard it is to work with, and it is always contrasted to her cousins good hair. Marlene wants to experiment with wearing her hair natural and curly, and in doing so begins a journey of self-discovery to define who she is.
Nine Colorado restaurants have joined a prestigious class.

As revealed Tuesday, the state has its first Bib Gourmand selections for its inaugural Michelin Guide  the French-rooted tradition highlighting the finest eats for world travelers.

It was previously announced Michelin would be adding Colorado to its short list of North American guides, joining California, Florida, New York, Chicago and Washington, D.C. Anonymous Michelin inspectors reportedly fanned out across Denver, Boulder, Aspen, Vail and Beaver Creek Resort in search of the very best.

The first picks are in  representing an appetizer to whet the states appetite for the full-selection smorgasbord, Gwendal Poullennec, international director of the Michelin Guides, said in the announcement.

Bib Gourmand awards go to restaurants selling good quality at a good value, according to the organization. They might be considered more approachable than the fine dining experiences typically receiving Michelins most coveted stars.

Those stars are set to be unveiled Sept. 12 at an invite-only ceremony in Denver.

Heres a look at the Bib Gourmand recipients:

 AJs Pit Bar-B-Q, Denver: Michelin inspectors praised the classic mom-and-pop BBQ spot on the citys south side for a feast of properly smoked meat and custard-stuffed cornbread. The Texas-inspired pitmaster doles out the expected (pulled pork, brisket) and unexpected (beef ribs, Wagyu pastrami).

 AshKara, Denver: In the Highland neighborhood, inspectors found chef Reggie Dotson offering an exploration of contemporary Israeli cuisine and gave points for thoughtful, full-flavored dishes made with high-quality ingredients and a bit of extra style. The taste buds travel between the Middle East, Mediterranean and North Africa.

 Basta, Boulder: The nook opened in 2010 with a single wood-fired oven and a mission to plate some of Boulders best Italian food. Mission accomplished, according to inspectors. They recommend chicken liver mousse with peach mostarda as a starter and the half chicken as an entree.

 The Ginger Pig, Denver: Chef-owner Natascha Hess has come a long way from food truck to brick-and-mortar in the Berkeley neighborhood  and a long way from learning Chinese cooking while an exchange student in Beijing. A host family kitchen provided the fundamentals to create the likes of boiled pork and cabbage dumplings, among inspectors favorites.

 Glo Noodle House, Denver: Inspectors came by a Ramen surprise in what they called a run-of-the-mill strip mall along 38th Avenue. Its not only the flavor-packed noodle bowls. Not to be missed, inspectors say: the sweet and savory skewer of marinated tofu, miso peach jam and almond-and-sesame candy crumble.

 Hop Alley, Denver: The sleek Chinese joint is a hit across RiNos ever-expanding food scene. Inspectors loved modern takes on old classics. A favorite: gai lan, noted as a dynamic plate of grilled Chinese broccoli with schmaltz and oyster sauce finished with house-made duck salt and crispy shallots.

 La Diabla Pozole y Mezcal, Denver: Inspectors were bound to discover a Mexican winner. They found this hideout a few blocks from Coors Field, noting tasty, colorful broths and pork done just right. Yes, the restaurant honors the traditional ways of pozole and the drink that pairs best with the soup. The mezcal list goes on and on.

 Mister Oso, Denver: Since the Latin American cuisine debuted in 2019 in RiNo, it has garnered fast fame, so much so that another Mister Oso sprouted in Wash Park. Credit goes to homegrown chef Blake Edmunds, who doesnt settle for standard tacos or ceviches.

 Tavernetta, Denver: Inspectors hailed it an absolute stunner for the atmosphere and menu, both exquisitely designed. Tavernetta aims to bring a la dolce vita style to 16th Street. According to the Michelin notes, life is sweeter with the crostini primavera  a colorful, creamy spread over fresh sourdough.
An organized crime hit on Denver Police Detective George Klein was as shocking 104 years ago as it would be today. Today, the Denver Police Museum, the Denver Police Department, the Mizel Museum, the Rocky Mountain Jewish Historical Society, and Beck Archives will observe the 104th anniversary of Detective Kleins death by placing a memorial sign at the corner of 14th Avenue and Newton Street to honor his service and sacrifice. He was ambushed at that location near his home as he returned home from work.

Klein is one of 77 Denver police officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty since the citys founding in 1859. He was the first of two officers targeted for assassination by organized crime during the Prohibition Era. The other officer was Patrolman Richie Rose in 1921. In both cases, their murderers were not apprehended, and no one was ever held accountable.

Like so many stories of the past, the tragic story of George Klein reflects our country, state, and community at the time, and offers important lessons still applicable today. With his family, Klein as a young boy, immigrated to the United States from Russia in 1893, settling in New York City. Kleins father contracted tuberculosis so the family moved to Denver. As a new Coloradan who proudly became a United States citizen in 1906, George began to build a life for himself. Four years later, he married Rose Prezeant, working hard to join the Denver Police Department in 1909. It continued to be a challenging time for people of Jewish descent, but George courageously pursued his passion for justice, being promoted to detective in 1916 and later being selected as the head of the Bootleg Squad.

The Bootleg Squad was a very demanding position that was fraught with danger. The fact that Klein, with his Jewish heritage, would be appointed to such a high profile and demanding position during this time in our citys history when the Klu Klux Klan was aggressively pursuing power and influence in the West, speaks volumes about his abilities, honesty, integrity, and courage.

On Monday, June 9, 1919, a turn of unexpected events occurred that would ultimately lead to the assassination of Detective Klein. Klein and another Bootleg Squad detective named George Schneider went to a soft drink parlor at 40th and Pecos to investigate reported liquor sales. The parlor was in North Denver, in a neighborhood that was predominately an Italian-American community. When they arrived, one of the brothers who operated the parlor, later identified as a 24-year-old World War I veteran named Jerry Corbetta, ran out the back. Klein went after him with his gun in hand. Seconds later a single shot was fired from Kleins revolver, striking, and killing Corbetta. Klein insisted it was unintentional and happened only because he stumbled, causing the gun to accidentally discharge.

Regardless, Klein was arrested and charged with Corbettas death.

A few days later, a coroners jury met and ruled the shooting was in the line of duty and Klein was released on bond pending a trial.

A raucous mob of 4,000 people descended on City Hall and were met by 150 officers who had been hastily assembled to keep order. Fortunately, Chief Armstrong was able to reason with leaders in the crowd and it dispersed peacefully.

However, not everyone listened to reason.

On Friday, Aug. 29, Klein returned home after his shift at the central station located at 14th and Larimer. Suddenly, a gunman sprang from cover and fired a sawed-off shotgun directly at Klein, wounding him in the torso, legs, and arm. Kleins distraught wife came running out of the house, cradling her husband in her arms until emergency personnel arrived. Succumbing to his significant injuries, Klein died at Denver County Hospital at 4:41 am.

What strikes me most about this tragic story is how easily it could be found in newspapers today. Several families including the Kleins and the Corbettas suffered grievous losses that would affect them for generations to come. Today, judgments and verdicts determined in the court of public opinion  with no understanding or regard for the judicial system that governs a society built on laws designed to protect its citizens  follow the same malicious attitude prevalent in years past.

Too many of our citizens do not respect and appreciate the sacrifices made by those who stand between us and violent crime. While accountability and transparency are critical to all interactions between the public and our law enforcement agencies, we are sometime too quick to misjudge our military veterans and first responders, who as human beings act courageously in desperate situations and sometimes make, on rare occasions mistakes.

To serve the best interests of all involved, we must work together to strengthen and improve our current systems to promote safe communities while protecting the rights of our citizens and supporting our first responders.

We are all aware of the challenges our communities and country face. It is time to work together to create the solutions that allow us to move forward, forgiving each other for the transgressions of the past to build a future worthy of yesterdays sacrifices. Now is the time.

Michael Hesse, a civic activist and history enthusiast, is president of the Denver Police Museum. He served as an appointee of President George H. W. Bush and as a chief of staff to two members of Congress.
A man accused of shooting a woman in the neck while she was driving in Colorado Springs has been arrested in Oklahoma, according to the Colorado Springs Police Department.

On July 1, city police received reports of a shooting downtown. Officers found a woman had been shot while driving her vehicle, and she was taken to a hospital with life-threatening injuries, police said.

The vehicles passenger, 36-year-old James Boswell, was in possession of a firearm but was released that night after being questioned by police.

CSPDs Assault Unit took over the investigation, and police determined Boswell intentionally shot the driver, investigators said.

On July 10, police obtained a warrant for Boswells arrest on charges of attempted second-degree murder and first-degree assault.

The Assault Unit, Violent Armed Offenders Unit and the Fugitive Unit searched for Boswell, and on Aug. 18 he was arrested in Mannford, Okla., after leading officers on a "short pursuit" in which he lost control of his vehicle and crashed into a field.

After a brief foot chase, Boswell was taken into custody and is currently being held at the Creek County Sheriff's Office in Oklahoma, police said.
Three Colorado Springs police officers were justified in fatally shooting a suspect who pointed a gun at them during an incident in February, prosecutors have ruled.

On Feb. 6, officers responded to the Grove Apartments in the 3900 block of East Bijou Street following reports by a woman that her neighbor was standing on the balcony of their apartment building brandishing a long gun.

Although the suspect was not threatening anyone with the weapon, the neighbor reported the suspect was standing outside, repeatedly loading and unloading the weapon.

Evan Wollert, 44, was uncooperative and evasive when police asked him about his weapon, according to a news release.

Based on the officers not having reasonable and articulable suspicion that a crime had been committed, they broke contact with Mr. Wollert, the release said.

As officers walked back to their patrol cars, Wollert came out of his apartment again and began pounding on the door of his neighbor's apartment.

When police asked Wollert to leave his neighbor alone, he began yelling profanity at the officers, and threatened them.

Officers made a calculated decision to not reengage with Wollert because they believed that continued interaction would cause his behavior to escalate, according to the release.

About six hours later, police received reports that Wollert was again pounding on his neighbors door, and was claiming he had a gun and that he had killed someone.

At least one reporting party stated that he heard a gunshot from the direction of Mr. Wollerts apartment building, the release said.

Police again responded to the Grove Apartments, including officers who had been on the scene earlier that night, and were advised of shots fired.

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Police heard yelling and began a tactical advance toward Wollert's apartment.

Officers saw Wollert repeatedly entering and exiting his second-floor apartment, yelling threats at officers that he was going to kill them and their children.

Police repeatedly announced their presence to Wollert and commanded him to come down with his hands up.

The final time Mr. Wollert entered and then exited his apartment, he appeared with a long gun in his hands, the release said. Officers gave multiple commands to Mr. Wollert to put the gun down or police tactics would be used, and they could not guarantee his safety.

Wollert began to walk down the stairs toward the officers and continued to threaten authorities with the long gun raised and pointed in their direction.

Sgt. Aaron Lloyd and Officer Steven Nelson each fired at least one round from their handguns, and Officer Steward Smythe fired at least three rounds from a rifle, the release states.

Mr. Wollert immediately collapsed and fell to the landing at the bottom of the stairs, the release said.

Officers provided medical attention to Wollert until paramedics arrived, but Wollert was pronounced dead at the scene.

The Colorado 4th Judicial District Attorneys Office deemed the use of deadly force by officers in this incident to be justified after reviewing the evidence.

Ultimately officers made every effort to deescalate the situation and achieve a peaceful resolution to the situation before deadly force was utilized, the DAs office wrote.

It was only at the precise moment that Mr. Wollert raised the shotgun and pointed it directly at officers did Sergeant Lloyd, Officer Nelson, and Officer Smythe discharge their weapons.
Across the 8.3 million acres of Bureau of Land Management property in Colorado, land is leased for recreation, grazing, oil and gas drilling, logging and soon perhaps conservation.

The proposal to add conservation leases that would allow for land restoration has drawn support from the environmental community, while also sparking questions about practicality from conservationists and ranchers.

The BLM said conservation leases as part of a new Public Lands Rule would not exclude other uses, such as grazing, a point that opponents question. But at the same time the leases would allow outside groups to do restoration projects that would be protected for set a period, likely a maximum of 10 years, a time period that has drawn skeptics.

The agency could also grant conservation leases to businesses who are required to mitigate expected environmental impacts from projects, such as building a transmission line, oil or gas wells or solar panels.

As pressure on our public lands continues to grow, the proposed Public Lands Rule provides a path for the BLM to better focus on the health of the landscape, ensuring that our decisions leave our public lands as good or better off than we found them," Bureau of Land Management Director Tracy Stone-Manning said in a news release. For example, the agency would be bound to protect intact landscapes and restore degraded habitat in the proposed rule.

The draft rule generated more than 216,000 public comments that the BLM is reviewing ahead of releasing a final rule next year, said Brian Hires, a spokesman for BLM headquarters.

A random sampling of 10,000 public comments taken by the Center for Western Priorities found 92% of them supported the rule, 4.5% opposed it and 3.5% were neutral, according to a news release. The center supports conservation.

Alison Gallensky, conservation geographer with Rocky Mountain Wild in Denver, is among those who supports elevating conservation on BLM land to qualify as a use, alongside grazing and drilling, and considers it a step forward for the agency.

"Conservation has not been considered one of the core uses," she said.

Locally, BLM land extends west of Colorado 115 south of Colorado Springs and is common between Canon City and Salida, but the agency plays a more significant role on the Western Slope.

For example, the BLM's Grand Junction Field Office manages 1 million acres of land, where oil and gas production contributes significantly to the economy.

Mesa County commissioners critiqued the BLM for not holding a stakeholder process ahead of the proposal's release, including overly vague language and introducing ideas that it may not have the staff or funding to manage.

"Capacity of BLM staff to assume additional management responsibilities is subject to scrutiny and raises valid concerns," the letter said.

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Mesa County Commissioner Cody Davis said he would like to see the Congress consider such major changes to the BLM's responsibilities, rather than allowing an agency to introduce such a sweeping change that in his opinion would give conservation priority over other uses.

While the BLM has said conservation leases would not take priority, Davis and other critics point to language in the rule that states other leases could overlap conservation leases only if later activities are compatible with conservation, to prove the conversation could take priority.

Paonia rancher Mark Roeber, who shares many concerns with the Mesa County commissioners, is opposing the rule as the president of the Public Lands Council, a group that advocates for cattle and sheep producers who hold grazing permits. He is concerned about the potential for conversation leases to last 10 years or longer and potentially exclude grazing the whole time.

"This is a way to put livestock grazing basically out of business," he said.

On behalf of the BLM, Hires said, the agency would not "remove or negate existing valid rights, such as grazing."

On the other side of the issue, Josh Osher, public policy director for Western Watersheds Project, said the rule is not bad as a whole but could stand to see some substantial improvements, particularly around conservation leasing. The leasing proposal might not have much interest from outside groups such as nonprofits to fund habitat restoration if the land may only be protected for 10 years.

"Who is going to do that? ... Put in that kind of effort when they dont know in the long term its going to remain?" he said.

For example, the Gunnison sage-grouse, a threatened bird in Colorado, has seen population declines because of habitat loss. Restoring the necessary sage brush for the bird takes decades, Osher said.

Instead of temporary leases, the BLM could allow conservation nonprofits to buy grazing permits from willing sellers and permanently retire them, he said. Such a model has worked around other public lands and it ensures the land has conservation value, he said.

Such work can mitigate the long, slow environmental impacts of grazing, he said, such as soil compaction, erosion and over-widening of streams. When streams are widened the flows become shallower, dirtier and warmer. Cattle also contribute to the loss of streamside vegetation, such as aspens and cottonwoods.

Protecting riparian areas is important because a vast majority of wildlife depend on those corridors, he said.

He also questioned the idea of using conservation leasing as part of the mitigation companies must do to offset damage from projects. Osher would like to see the compensatory land provide permanent benefits, such as providing a conservation on easement that would prohibit future development on private land. Protecting private land would provide additional benefit compared to working on public land that already has set protections.

"We get a lot of bang for our buck when we restore private land," he said.
One woman was shot and injured early Tuesday morning while walking her dog in Memorial Park, according to Colorado Springs police.

Police said at around 3 a.m. Tuesday, CSPD received reports of a shooting near the intersection of Colorado Avenue and Hancock.

Police told Gazette news affiliate KKTV that the woman had been shot in the leg while walking her dog. Officials said the incident may have been self-inflicted, with accidental shots fired.

Officials say the woman is expected to make a full recovery. Animal law enforcement officers responded to the park with police and took the dog away from the scene.
Not really listening to

citizens

The headline in Saturdays Gazette Groups raise concerns over listening tour: Residents worry format limits public participation of the mayor-, City Council-sponsored sessions is misleading to readers.

I am a member of City Council and the listening tour is not sponsored by City Council. It is sponsored, planned and organized by the mayor. Council was informed when and where the sessions would be, what the format would be, and invited to attend and participate within the already determined format.

I share some citizens concerns that the format is designed to control citizen comments and questions. It is a safe space for the mayor to interact with citizens. Tables of 10 or fewer participants are guided in their discussion of four predetermined topics by a table facilitator. Each table then has a representative stand up and explain to the mayor, and the one or two Council men or women in attendance, what that tables concerns are. After all the tables have spoken, the mayor repeats back what he has heard.

I watched a recording of the first listening session and was disappointed there was no question and answer; no direct exchange between the mayor, or councilman present and the citizens.

Tuesday, Aug. 29, I will be holding a traditional town hall at Fire Station 18 in District 1  which I represent. Citizens can speak directly to me and ask me questions. I will answer them honestly and look into those I dont know the answer to. There wont be filters between me and the citizens. I will certainly be listening to the citizens I have the privilege of representing.

Dave Donelson

Colorado Springs

So controlled and limited

Regarding your Gazette article, Resident groups raise concerns over public participation in Colorado Springs summer listening-tour by Breeanna Jent, her term concerns might be a bit of an understatement. Approximately 150 District Two people were signed-in, herded to tables in the center of the Liberty high school cafeteria and then told to discuss numerous city issues provided by the city on papers at each table. A scribe/facilitator then dutifully attempted to document all the discussion.

I felt like a sheep corralled by the city and volunteer workers who were there to keep us under close control, not really listen to the bleating of the herd. We did discuss hot-button city issues at each table, like out-of-control development, fire evacuation, lack of police, Pine Creek low-income housing, traffic, noise and infrastructure issues in District 2 like those that will be potentially caused by the recently approved Amphitheater.

After over an hour of this then a member of the group got to stand up and summarize in one and a half minutes the entire discussion. Wow, one and a half minutes of free speech! Needless to say, that was not adequate. After each table got their turn to speak.

The Mayor who had arrived at the end of the listening session, stood up and essentially told us he heard what we were saying and would take our concerns under consideration. The District 2 Councilman also got to comment, and it was so shallow and short as to be worthless opportunism. I might also note that several attendees had signs not favorable to the Councilman. In summary, it was so controlled and limited that I wondered why I bothered to attend. But I do suppose one could say that the city leadership did listen to our concerns.

That said, this city has numerous problems, appears to be run by wealthy developers who generally get what they want and continues down the path of uncontrolled growth, for so-called economic vitality of course, and will probably get worse faster than it will get better. Solutions do not exist in an environment where citizen free speech is so constrained. The solutions thrown out are simply twisted to suit those in power.

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Neil L. Talbott

Colorado Springs

Reaching into our pockets

The Listening Tour with Mayor Yemi Mobolade and City Council has Economic Vitality on their list for inclusion in the Citys Strategic Plan. Yet, with the economic growth we have already realized as a community, our local government officials continue to ask for increased fees, taxes and retention of TABOR refunds. The most recent being a ballot initiative to retain TABOR refunds for a new police academy.

At what point does economic vitality become sustainable financially for a growing community? Are new developments, businesses and institutions being charged the necessary fees, rates and taxes to pay for installation and maintenance of new infrastructure and public safety, or is the burden being shifted in part to those citizens that are already here? Are we as local tax and rate payers subsidizing the continued growth of this community?

It seems that way as our taxes, fees and rates continue to go up, and we are continually asked to relinquish our TABOR refunds for some new City project. Perhaps when the Mayor and City Council finalize the plan around Economic Vitality, they could also spend more time finalizing a management plan around how to make it financially sustainable and stop reaching into our pockets for more.

Alan Goins

Colorado Springs

Beware of assumed noncompliance

Upon returning from a fun filled vacation in Grand Lake I had an orange Utility Company Penalty Card wrapped around my front door handle. Apparently I had been visited by agents of the Colorado Spring Utility Company on the day I left for vacation, wanting to install their new hourly water monitoring device, and I was not home. The cryptic hand written message on the penalty card indicated that I was to call immediately and make an appointment, which I did. The device installer showed up on schedule and I assisted him with the installation of new wiring from the water meter to the new device. The next day I received a written letter from the Utility company that if I didnt take immediate action to schedule installation of their new monitoring device my service would be suspended.

I have been paying my bills on time for over ten years. The letter was threatening, disingenuous, rude, and insulting, that a service provider would threaten to discontinue serving a loyal customer because they were not given access to my residence to install their equipment without even a call to say they were coming. If I returned to find my home occupied by squatters they would certainly not turn off the Utilities upon my request.

I joked with the installer that the City was installing new spy devices to punish people for watering their lawn too many days in a row. He said it was to prevent leaks from wasting too much water before they can respond. So if you plan to fill a pool or hot tub expect the water monitors to show up at your door to check out your excessive use for that hour. When assumed noncompliance can lead to threats of punishment, beware.

Roy Weaver

Colorado Springs
The Cheyenne Mountain Zoo is facing litigation from an animal rights organization calling for the zoo to send its African elephants to a sanctuary.

The Nonhuman Rights Project (NhRP) filed a 376-page petition on June 28, naming the zoos five beloved aging African elephants as plaintiffs in a suit against the zoo, attempting to get the elephant population removed from zoo custody.

Cheyenne Mountain Zoo responded with a news release Friday, calling the NhRP an organization known in the Zoo industry for wasting credible organizations time and money, and said the group was using litigation as a way to gain public attention for their misguided claims.

NhRP, an animal activist organization based in Coral Springs, Fla., has been active since 1995, and is dedicated solely to securing rights for nonhuman animals, according to the organizations website.

In May and June 2022, the activist organization sued the Fresno Chaffee Zoo and the Bronx Zoo over the treatment of elephants kept in those zoos. NhRP lost both cases.

The Cheyenne Mountain Zoo disputes claims of neglect toward the five elephants  Jambo, Missy, LouLou, Kimba and Lucky  citing a highly dedicated team carrying a collective 65 years of experience who work with the small herd.

We dedicate four full-time keepers most days to care for the five elephants, according to the release. The team consistently studies our elephants behaviors and adjusts their care programs to provide more of what they (the elephants) positively respond to.

In both social media and on its petition page, NhRP claims that the elephants  born in the wild but taken into captivity decades ago before being brought to the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo  have been observed engaging in behavior indicative of trauma and chronic stress.

The zoo in its rebuttal says the herd is given considerable space to roam in its enclosure, including an additional nearly 2-acre yard not visible to guests, and that handlers work to provide the best care possible as they age with dignity.

The Cheyenne Mountain Zoo website says it has raised more than $4.5 million, dedicated to front-line conservation efforts around the world, and has been an accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums for more than 35 years.

The NhRP has yet to respond to The Gazettes request for comment.
Dear Savvy Senior,

What retirement planning tips can you recommend to single women? Im a divorced 58-year-old women with a teenaged son and have very little saved for retirement.  Financially Vulnerable

Dear Vulnerable,

Its an unfortunate reality, but many single women  whether theyre divorced, widowed or never married  face much greater financial challenges in retirement than men.

The reasons behind this are because women tend to earn less money  about 82 cents for every dollar that men make, on average  and they have shorter working careers than men due to raising children and/or caring for aging parents. And less money earned usually translates into less money saved and a lower Social Security benefit when you retire.

In addition, women live an average of five years longer than men, which requires their retirement income to stretch frrther for living expenses and health care costs. And, according to some studies, women tend to have less confidence about financial issues than men, which means they dont always manage their money as well as they should.

Because of these issues, its very important that women educate themselves on financial matters and learn how to save more effectively. Here are some tips and resources that may help.

 Start saving aggressively: If your employer offers a retirement plan, such as a 401(k), you should contribute enough to at least capitalize on a company match, if available. And if you can swing it, contribute even more. In 2023, you can save as much as $22,500 in a 401(k), or $30,000 to those 50 and older, due to the catch-up rule.

If you dont have a workplace plan, consider opening a Traditional or Roth IRA. Both are powerful tax-advantaged retirement savings accounts that let you contribute up to $6,500 annually, or $7,500 when youre over 50. And if youre self-employed, consider a SEP-IRA, SIMPLE-IRA and/or a solo 401(k), all of which can help reduce your taxable income while putting money away for retirement.

Also, if you have a high-deductible health insurance policy (at least $1,500 for self-only coverage or $3,000 for family coverage), you should consider opening a health savings account (HSA). This is a triple tax advantage tool that can be used to sock away funds pre-tax, which will lower your taxable income; the money in the account grows tax-free and if you use the money for eligible medical expenses, the withdrawals are tax-free too.

 Pay off debts: If you have debt, you need to get it under control. If you need help with this, consider a nonprofit credit-counseling agency that provides free or low-cost advice and solutions, and can help you set up a debt management plan. To locate a credible agency in your area, use the National Foundation for Credit Counseling website at NFCC.org (800-388-2227), or the or the Financial Counseling Association of America FCAA.org (800-450-1794).

 Find help: To help you educate yourself on financial matters like retirement planning, saving and investing, health care, annuities and more, a top resource is the Womens Institute for a Secure Retirement at WiserWomen.org.

And to help you get up to speed on Social Security, visit SSA.gov/people/women. This web page, dedicated to women, provides helpful publications like What Every Woman Should Know, along with links to benefit calculators and your personal Social Security account to help you figure out your future earnings at different retirement ages.

You should also consider getting a financial assessment with a fee-only financial adviser. Costs for these services will vary from around $150 to $300 per hour, but this can be very beneficial to help you set-up a retirement plan you can follow. See NAPFA.org to locate an adviser in your area.

Send your senior questions to: Savvy Senior, P.O. Box 5443, Norman, OK 73070, or visit SavvySenior.org. Writer Jim Miller is a contributor to Today on NBC and author of The Savvy Senior.
Clean energy overtakes coal for first time in China's Zhejiang

Xinhua) 09:20, August 29, 2023

HANGZHOU, Aug. 28 (Xinhua) -- As of the end of July, the installed capacity of clean energy in east China's Zhejiang Province reached 57.51 million kilowatts, surpassing that of coal power units for the first time, according to the latest data from State Grid Zhejiang Electric Power Co., Ltd.

Of the total installed power capacity of Zhejiang, clean energy accounted for 46 percent, coal 40.1 percent, natural gas power 10.7 percent, and the remaining 3.2 percent held by other sources, according to the company.

In recent years, the province has promoted the adoption of clean energy by expanding the use of wind power, solar energy and nuclear energy, among other initiatives, thereby reducing the reliance on coal.

The rise in the share of installed capacity of clean energy has brought new opportunities to emerging industries such as photovoltaics, power batteries and new-energy vehicles (NEVs).

Previous data showed that nearly 1 million charging poles had been installed across the province. It plans to build more than 2.3 million charging poles by 2025 to meet the charging demand of over 4 million NEVs.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
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The local chapter of the NAACP is questioning both the process and the impact of Corvallis' efforts to merge two committees that addressed equity issues.

Last year, the Corvallis City Council set up a Diversity, Equity and Inclusion task force with the idea that it would finish the job started in 2014 to reassess the city's many advisory bodies with the merging of two boards dedicated to diversity and inclusion.

Based on its recommendation, the city in May dissolved the Community Involvement & Diversity Advisory Board and the King Legacy Advisory Board, merging them into one, now called Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Advisory Board (or JEDI).

Not only are members of the Linn Benton NAACP concerned about the lack of transparency in the process, they are also concerned that the new board will be tasked with a scope so broad, the more specific needs of racial justice and inclusion for Corvallis small Black community will fall through the cracks.

Long time coming

Corvallis is a city of many, many advisory boards soliciting public input. And in Corvallis fashion, before the merger, the city convened at least two other task forces to talk about it.

Still, the most recent efforts snuck up on the NAACP, Jason J. Dorsette, president of the Linn Benton branch, said.

Conversations to dissolve both Community Involvement & Diversity Advisory Board and King Legacy Advisory Board began in 2014, after leaders convened a Public Participation Task Force to review the citys public outreach and involvement.

"One of their key recommendations was to consolidate our rather large network of advisory boards, commissions, committees, and task forces," city spokesperson Patrick Rollens said by email.

"The 2014 report specifically recommended that the city create a new board called the Community Involvement & Diversity Advisory Board, and subsequently merge KLAB into CIDAB," he said.

According to Dorsette, talks about dissolving the King Legacy Advisory Board began in earnest around 2015 or 2016. One of the issues raised at the time, Dorsette said, was the revolving-door nature of leadership on the board.

"When youre working with an organization such as the King Legacy Board or NAACP, its really important to have leadership that is committed and consistent," he said.

The then-NAACP president and vice president reached out to the City Council when they got wind of the matter and were invited to a council meeting, where they urged members to keep the King Legacy Advisory Board.

It stayed.

But talks were renewed in 2020 after the city took the hiatus of most advisory boards brought about by COVID-19 as an avenue to begin assessing the citys advisory boards, the last of all the recommendations from the Public Participation Task Force.

The fate of the Community Involvement & Diversity and King Legacy advisory boards was among the last to be addressed. Yet another task force, the Diversity and Equity Inclusion Task Force, was set up to look into both boards in 2022.

Between August and December, the task force held monthly meetings where members reviewed both boards grant processes, grant awards, meeting minutes and received input from city staff.

In its final report unanimously recommending that the boards be dissolved and merged, the task force said the Community Involvement & Diversity and King Legacy boards appeared to have job descriptions that bled into one another and confused city staff about where to take what diversity, equity and inclusion conversations or proposed policies.

Budget-wise, the task force also noted that the consolidation will save some marginal administrative costs related to meeting management and staff support. Because both boards were still on COVID-19 restrictions, it was difficult to have them involved in the conversations, the report said.

By the end of 2022, more than 10 boards had been dissolved, consolidated or relaunched with a narrower focus, while others had their functions absorbed by city staff.

Break in communication

When movement to consolidate city committees picked up in 2022, there was no official communication from the city government, Dorsette said.

He didn't even know that implementation of the DEI Task Force's recommendations was scheduled for an April 2023 City Council meeting until two councilors told him about it unofficially, he said.

NAACP leaders seized the opportunity to again share their concerns with the mayor, especially about the break in communication, and were told that, yes, there could have been more done to solicit community input about King Legacy Advisory Board's dissolution when the effort began again.

"I do understand the frustration and concern about what happened," Briae Lewis, Ward 2 Councilor wrote in an email to Mid-Valley Media. "There was definitely a disconnect somewhere in the communication process before moving forward with that decision."

Dorsette said while the NAACP isnt the lone voice on diversity and inclusion, its mission and credibility as a voice for the Black community as well as its work with the city, especially with Parks & Recreation on the MLK Park, shouldve meant that members were brought into the recent conversation.

"Our objective is to call out the lack of transparency on the citys part as it relates to the outreach," Dorsette said.

The ideal outcome would be the reinstitution of King Legacy Advisory Board, he added.

"For us not to be reached out to, knowing that we were partnering with the city in terms of the MLK Park, we felt that there was a huge oversight," he said.

Narrow versus broad

The new, consolidated body  the Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Advisory Board  consists of 11 board members, including Lewis, who will serve as its council liaison.

Members include a racial justice facilitator, a member of the LGBTQ+ community, as well as a Ugandan lawyer who works in social justice.

"The new JEDI Advisory Board is full of energized volunteers from diverse backgrounds, many of whom are brand new to working with the city," Rollens said.

The NAACP isnt against the formation of a new board charged with diversity and equity, Dorsette said, but he fears that a group with a broad scope can potentially water down the attention to specific communities who face more systemic and institutional racial issues.

"I think there are moments in time in which it is good to have this broad scope to diversity, equity and inclusion; (but) there are also times in which you need to have a narrow focus," said Dorsette, who is the executive director, Equity, Diversity & Inclusion at Linn-Benton Community College.

"There is a difference between racial justice and social equality, and if the city knows anything about systemic racism in the context of the United States of America, theyll know theres a huge difference," Dorsette said.

"We dont have a problem with the creation of JEDI. Its great, but when we create things like JEDI with a broad scope, and theres a small amount of Black people in this city, it waters down, unconsciously, the presence and the specific attention that is needed for Black individuals in this city, he said, adding that this hyper focus on systemic racial justice for Blacks is the crux of Martin Luther King's work and legacy.

"Its not an either-or. Its a both-and."

As part of its mandate, the new JEDI board will advise the city government on "honoring the principles of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and identifying opportunities to reflect those ideals in City policies," according to its page on the city's website.

"We owe it to everyone who has participated in these discussions over the last decade to give them a chance to do just that," Rollens said.

What now?

Simply put: more lobbying. The NAACP branch gave its leadership the go-ahead during its last meeting to broach the matter of reinstating King Legacy Advisory Board with city councilors in individual meetings.

According to Montsie Garrido, NAACP operations administrator, that has included trying to come up with the appropriate language to communicate the groups concerns and incorporating individual concerns of community members into the conversations with council.

"We want to make sure that were bringing the worries of the branch to the council," Garrido said. "I spoke to a couple of city councilors just to see what they think. So far theyre looking forward to an email or some sort of official exchange."

A potluck dinner is also being organized in late September among the NAACP leadership, the new JEDI board, some representatives from the council and other community members.

"Were hoping at that meeting to clear the air and clear up any misconceptions or misunderstandings and chart a path forward," Dorsette said.

Meanwhile, Garrido will continue the process of setting up and having discussions with city councilors leading up to the potluck.

Lewis said the city is taking a more quantitative approach and seeking data to interpret the impact of policies, projects and the formation of boards like JEDI on the citys most vulnerable communities.

"When or if the City Council decides that we still do need the King's Advisory Board, then we'll know two things: that we have missed something that the previous boards didn't and communication will be even more vital to continue the existence of both in order to keep improving this community," Lewis said by email.

The question of revolving-door leadership will also need to be addressed.

"I cant say this enough; whenever youre dealing with such a small subset of people, you often see the same people doing all of the work. Theres a small number of Black people that have the capacity and have the time and the training to do equity work," Dorsette said.

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He argues that perhaps the city will need to develop a more strategic plan to sustain the advisory board should the King Legacy Advisory Board be reinstated.

But even if this doesn't happen, Dorsette said the group is keen to work with JEDI to ensure that Martin Luther's King Jr.'s legacy of fighting systemic racism for the Black community isn't lost in "this broad bubble of diversity, equity and inclusion."

Related stories:
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis made a swing through North Iowa on Saturday, telling a crowd of potential Republican voters he was running for president in order to "send Joe Biden back to his basement where he belongs.

The line drew raucous applause at the crowded Pizza Ranch restaurant in Garner.

Saying the nation is "in jeopardy of being the first generation of Americans to turn over to our kids and grandkids a country that is less free and less prosperous than the one we inherited," the 2024 Republican presidential hopeful delivered his vision for America to a packed dining room.

DeSantis said he would start by reversing Bidenomics.

"On the first day in office, I'm going to take all his executive orders, all this bureaucracy, all this red tape, and we're going to throw it right in the trash can where it belongs," DeSantis said. "We're not going to let them spend this country into oblivion any longer. You have to make decisions for your family to make sure your budgets work, and these politicians need to start doing the same thing."

DeSantis said he's helped achieve economic success in his state by "leading boldly, delivering results and attracting people to the success we enjoy."

"The idea that my kids should be exposed to anything of a sexual nature? No, I'm sorry. That is not gonna happen, that's wrong. [Yet] you have movements [that want] to be able to inject things about telling a first-grader that they can change their gender or that they were born in the wrong body. ... Is there any parent that really wants that going on in school? It's totally inappropriate."

DeSantis said as president he would bring the issue of our southern border to a conclusion.

"We'll declare it a national emergency on Day One. We're going to marshal all available resources to the border including the U.S. military. Yes, we will build a border wall, but we are also going to take policy action to stop the invasion of people trying to come," DeSantis said to applause.

He also plans to "hold the Mexican drug cartels accountable" for human and drug trafficking, saying "they're responsible for bringing in enough fentanyl to kill many millions of people, and that does kill tens of thousands of Americans every year."

DeSantis spoke in Garner just hours after a deadly shooting unfolded at a Dollar General store in Jacksonville, Florida. In what is being investigated as a federal hate crime, a 21-year-old White gunman armed with a swastika-emblazoned rifle allegedly targeted people of color in his attack, killing three before turning the gun on himself. DeSantis returned to Florida on Sunday to deal with the response to the shooting.

"I heard a rumor that you want to increase the retirement age," one attendee said to the governor. "My dad died when he was 62 and didn't get the chance to use any of his Social Security, and he started working when he was 14. If you increase the retirement age, I don't want to die before I get the chance to reach it."

"It should reflect life expectancy, and what we've had in this country is a pretty significant decline in life expectancy," DeSantis responded. "Given those circumstances, to raise it would be cutting against where the demographics are going, so that's not gonna happen."

Douglas McCabe of Garner came to see DeSantis, but was dismayed enough at this answer that he won't be supporting him at the Iowa Caucuses in February. "I don't think he was being honest. I think when he's in there he's going to raise the retirement age. DeSantis has talked about raising that age (as a congressman).

DeSantis made the swing through Iowa after Wednesday's Republican debate in Milwaukee, where he fought back against attacks from eight other candidates as the highest-polling attendee. Former President Donald Trump didn't attend.

Several recent Iowa polls indicate Trump still holds a comfortable lead over DeSantis among likely caucusgoers, matching national trends.

"We've got to be able to win. If this election is a referendum on Joe Biden's failed policies and our positive vision for how we reverse the country's decline, we're gonna win. If the election ends up a referendum on all these controversies," he said, hinting at the former president's current criminal charges, "Democrats are going to win, and when they win, they're gonna pack the Supreme Court, abolish the Electoral College, make Washington, D.C., a state, and they're going to eliminate voter I.D. laws in every jurisdiction in this country."

Brian Clark of Spencer said he supported Trump in 2016 and 2020, but plans on supporting DeSantis in February. He said, "I think all the things he talked about is somewhat reflective of what President Trump had, without the baggage."

Trump fatigue continued with longtime Republican Gerald Edgar of Garner, who said his first choice was DeSantis, followed by Nikki Haley and Chris Christie. "First and foremost," Edgar said, "I want a man or woman as president who who is going to get our budget balanced and protect our military. Forty percent of our budget goes to pay the debt; that alarms me," said Edgar, "We just keep pushing along the debt to our children and grandchildren."

DeSantis said he will visit all of Iowa's 99 counties by October, and said Hancock County was number 50.
An Alabama man was arrested Aug. 17 for allegedly seriously injuring another man in Charles City last May.

According to court records, 34-year-old Laron Robert Martin of Selma, Ala. has been charged with willful injury  a class C felony punishable by up to 10 years in prison.

The affidavit states Martin had a verbal altercation with the alleged victim at the Best Budget Hotel on May 6. The argument escalated and the injured party was attempting to walk away when Martin "punched him in the side of the head and then picked him up and slammed him face-first into the ground causing the male to be unconscious."

Martin then allegedly struck the victim several times after he was unconscious. Injuries included a displaced and fractured zygomatic arch, a periorbital soft tissue contusion and a concussion. He was transported to the hospital for treatment.

Martin was granted a new public defender Friday due to a conflict in interest with the previous attorney due to their firms representation of the victim in different matters. No trial date has been set as of Monday morning.

Today in sports history: Aug. 28 1950: Althea Gibson becomes first Black player to compete in U.S. Open 1990: Top-seeded Stefan Edberg loses in first round of US Open 1995: Monica Seles wins in return 2008: Top-seeded Ana Ivanovic is ousted from the U.S. Open by 188th-ranked player 2014: Roger Goodell announces tougher penalties for players accused of domestic violence 2016: Ryan Harlost strikes out 8 to lead Endwell, NY, to LLWS title
David Cuttino counts on the Virginia Alcoholic Beverage Control Authority to help sell and market the whiskey made by Reservoir Distillery, the Richmond company that he co-founded in 2008, as the countrys economy turned upside down in the Great Recession.

Reservoir, based in Scotts Addition, is among nearly 90 Virginia companies that make distilled spirits that, since the end of Prohibition in 1934, can be sold in Virginia only through the state-owned liquor monopoly, which also is a reliable source of revenue for the states general fund budget.

So Cuttino, as chairman of the Virginia Spirits Board, was concerned this summer when Gov. Glenn Youngkins administration insisted on cutting more the $21 million from expenses at ABC  including more than $1 million for marketing and advertising that his industry considers essential to selling its products in a highly competitive liquor market. The cuts, finalized last week in the third budget lawmakers considered in two months, almost double the projected level of profit going back to the state.

I dont understand why theyre doing this when, in my view, ABC has been doing a pretty good job as a business, he said in an interview on Monday.

ABC made $220.6 million in retail profits

The answer cuts to the bottom line for former Del. Tim Hugo, R-Fairfax, whom Youngkin appointed as chairman of the ABC Authority Board of Directors early this year after 17 years in the House of Delegates and an unsuccessful 2021 run for the Republican nomination for lieutenant governor.

We just got them another $20 million (for) the budget, Hugo said in an interview on Friday.

ABC returned $220.6 million in retail profits to the state on almost $1.5 billion in gross sales in the fiscal year that ended on June 30  about $20 million more than required in the state budget lawmakers adopted 14 months ago. Counting taxes on sales, wine and beer, the authority generated $609.7 million in revenues for the state. The budget adopted on Aug. 22 would boost retail profits to $244.3 million in this fiscal year, which began on July 1, about $21 million more than originally forecast.

Soon after Youngkin named him as chairman of the board in early February, Hugo went to the governors new chief transformation officer, Eric Moeller, and asked him to look at the operations and expenses at ABC, established as a quasi-independent state authority in 2018 to give it more freedom to run as a business. The law also made ABC a less lucrative place for former legislators in both parties and other political players to roost by making the board positions part time.

I had a lot of questions I wanted them to clarify, Hugo said.

The main question was why ABC was increasing sales and gross revenues, but returning a smaller portion of net revenues to the state budget. Moeller, in a report presented to the authority board on July 20, concluded that operating costs had increased by $135 million in six years, resulting in a steady decline in the portion of revenues returned to the state as profit since 2019, the year before the COVID-19 pandemic began.

The answer  according to the authority and the industries it regulates  was that costs rose because of skyrocketing labor costs during the pandemic, including a pair of 5% raises for state employees in the two-year budget that ABC had to pay with its profits. The state also had committed to allow a portion of profits to be used to modernize antiquated information technology systems and replace the longtime ABC headquarters and distribution warehouse on Hermitage Road in Richmond. The new headquarters and warehouse opened two years ago in Hanover County, and Virginia Commonwealth University bought the old property last year for $15.7 million.

The cuts alarmed Cuttino and other representatives of regulated industries, who voiced their concerns at the July 20 meeting. During that meeting the board took an initial vote narrowly rejecting a revised budget with $21.3 million in cost cuts in response to Moellers findings. They were fearful that the proposed cuts would hurt sales at retail stores and potentially prevent the authority from filling long vacant jobs in ABC enforcement necessary to ensure that all competitors play by the rules. They also worried that the cuts would undermine progress that ABC has made since becoming an authority.

The budget the board adopted last week is essentially the same as the one it rejected a month earlier, after it was tweaked to shift $3 million in cuts away from staff incentives, bonuses and training, but at the expense of additional staffing cuts at ABCs 365 stores and elimination of more vacant full-time jobs.

It includes a commitment to fill 45 of the 60 jobs currently vacant in ABCs enforcement division, using higher license fees that the industry supported in 2020 in return for hiring more officers to police the business. Hugo said the money has been there to fill those jobs, some of them vacant for years. Its been funded, but they just havent hired them, he said.

Official: So many of the potential risks are real

Eric Terry is president of the Virginia Restaurant Lodging and Travel Association, whose members have to buy distilled spirits through the state system and depend on enforcement of state rules against unfair competition. His association was among 11 liquor industry trade groups that voiced their concern to Hugo in a letter on Aug. 21, the day before the board adopted a budget that Terry said allayed his concerns.

Theyve done a really good job of modernizing ABC, he said. We dont want those improvements to stop.

The governors intervention at ABC has gotten a mixed reception at the General Assembly, which has been busy with its own six-month budget stalemate that ended last week.

House Appropriations Chairman Barry Knight, R-Virginia Beach, acknowledged a lot of moving pieces at ABC, but said it is appropriate for the governors staff to look for ways to make state government more efficient.

It is an authority, but it adds to my bottom line with all the profits and state taxes, Knight said. Hopefully, at the end of the day, we can get more daggone profit out of it.

In 2012, the assembly dismissed an attempt by then-Gov. Bob McDonnell, a Republican, to privatize ABC, largely because his proposal would have lost money for the state budget.

Sen. Barbara Favola, D-Arlington, who chairs the Senate committee that oversees ABC, cautioned against making cuts for short-term profits that could hurt the authoritys long-term success.

I think theyre probably taking a narrow view for short-term gains, Favola said Monday.

Cuttino has the same concerns on behalf of his company and others represented by the Virginia Spirits Board. While the number of people they employ directly is small  16 at Reservoir  he said they are part of a much larger economic ecosystem that includes farms, lumber companies, and the millers and coopers that make their barrels.

Cutbacks at ABC  including staffing and marketing at ABC stores  will necessarily hurt the bottom line, he said.

The budget proposed in July acknowledged some of the potential consequences. Cuts in marketing and other media services could slow growth in sales and reduce public exposure to Virginia spirits and wines, it said.

But the biggest question for the industry remains why.

I really dont understand why any of this is necessary, Cuttino said. So many of the potential risks are real.

Close An employee works at new Virginia ABC headquarters and distribution Center in Hanover County, Va., on Monday, June 21, 2021. An employee works at new Virginia ABC headquarters and distribution Center in Hanover County, Va., on Monday, June 21, 2021. The new warehouse is 37% larger than the Hermitage Road warehouse in Richmond, which remains in use for the time being. Cases of products moved through the new state ABC authoritys liquor distribution center in Hanover County on Monday. Gov. Ralph Northam (center) shares a laugh with Virginia ABC CEO Travis Hill (center left), Public Safety and Homeland Security Secretary Brian Moran (center right) and others during the ribbon-cutting. Governor Ralph Northam speaks during a ribbon cutting ceremony for the grand opening of new Virginia ABC headquarters and distribution Center in Hanover County, Va., on Monday, June 21, 2021. Secretary of Public Safety and Homeland Security Brian Moran speaks during a ribbon cutting ceremony for the grand opening of new Virginia ABC headquarters and distribution Center in Hanover County, Va., on Monday, June 21, 2021. Virginia ABC CEO Travis Hill speaks during a ribbon cutting ceremony for the grand opening of new Virginia ABC headquarters and distribution Center in Hanover County, Va., on Monday, June 21, 2021. The Hanover County site is home to a 95,000-square-foot, three-story office building and a 315,000-square-foot warehouse. PHOTOS: Virginia ABC Headquarters and Distribution Center in Hanover County An employee works at new Virginia ABC headquarters and distribution Center in Hanover County, Va., on Monday, June 21, 2021. An employee works at new Virginia ABC headquarters and distribution Center in Hanover County, Va., on Monday, June 21, 2021. The new warehouse is 37% larger than the Hermitage Road warehouse in Richmond, which remains in use for the time being. Cases of products moved through the new state ABC authoritys liquor distribution center in Hanover County on Monday. Gov. Ralph Northam (center) shares a laugh with Virginia ABC CEO Travis Hill (center left), Public Safety and Homeland Security Secretary Brian Moran (center right) and others during the ribbon-cutting. Governor Ralph Northam speaks during a ribbon cutting ceremony for the grand opening of new Virginia ABC headquarters and distribution Center in Hanover County, Va., on Monday, June 21, 2021. Secretary of Public Safety and Homeland Security Brian Moran speaks during a ribbon cutting ceremony for the grand opening of new Virginia ABC headquarters and distribution Center in Hanover County, Va., on Monday, June 21, 2021. Virginia ABC CEO Travis Hill speaks during a ribbon cutting ceremony for the grand opening of new Virginia ABC headquarters and distribution Center in Hanover County, Va., on Monday, June 21, 2021. The Hanover County site is home to a 95,000-square-foot, three-story office building and a 315,000-square-foot warehouse.
Cone Health is reaching out to the public again as part of its appeal of state health regulatory approval for a $246 million community hospital to be operated in Greensboro by Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist.

Cone ran a full-page ad Sunday in the Winston-Salem Journal and News & Record that posed the question: Can more hospitals actually result in less care? Yes, they actually can.

Regulators informed Baptist on July 26 that it has proven the overall need for the proposed 36-bed hospital at 2909 Horse Pen Creek Road. The approval became public Aug. 9.

Cone, which operates the only Greensboro hospital, vigorously opposes the Baptist application. Cone submitted an immediate appeal rather than wait up to 30 days.

The N.C. Office of Administrative Hearings said Monday a final decision is due 270 days after the filing of Cones appeal on Aug. 24. depending on whether continuances or extensions are given by the administrative law judge.

The proposed hospital is 2.1 miles from a Cone facility that opened in May 2022  a 160,000-square-foot MedCenter Greensboro facility at 3518 Drawbridge Parkway. The $97 million Cone facility includes an emergency department, ambulatory care center, imaging, physical therapy, cardiology, wellness programs and 13 overall services.

We maintained that the projected hospital is about profits over patients, Cone said in the ad. Its very location indicated a market-driven strategy versus a needs-based solution.

Cone said in a statement Monday that the ads are a way to keep this issue in the mind of consumers.

After all, they are the ones who could see higher health care costs as the result of a poor decision by the state.

Cone said that over the next several weeks, we plan to use a variety of ways reminding consumers what is at stake.

Building a small hospital in an affluent part of Greensboro isnt about competition. It is about syphoning off people with premium health insurance. Everyone gets to pay for it.

Baptist has projected construction commencing by December 2024 with a goal of opening by July 2026. It would have at least 152 full-time equivalent employees at full capacity.

However, the appeal puts on hold the issuing of the certificate of need.

This is a poor decision for everyone needing health care in this area, Cone chief executive Mary Jo Cagle said in an Aug. 9 statement.

Neither Atrium nor Baptist could be immediately reached for comment on the Cone ad.

Baptist spokesman Joe McCloskey said Aug. 9 the system is pleased with the states decision and we are eager to move forward.

But, out of respect for the process, we are reserving additional comment at this time.

Cone said in the ad that its appeal has support from Greensboro Mayor Nancy Vaughan and other community leaders. Vaughan spoke at a public hearing on the proposal that while she supports a second Greensboro hospital, she prefers that it operate in the east Greensboro area.

This ad campaign is unlikely to sway regulators who make decisions based on hard facts, and not emotional appeals to public pressure, said Zagros Madjd-Sadjadi, an economics professor at Winston-Salem State University.

This is more of a marketing ploy than anything else.

Cone response

The purpose of the states CON laws is to limit or prevent duplication of medical services within a community. The laws also serve as a disincentive to for-profit health-care providers to open facilities.

The 36 beds would be transferred from Baptist-operated High Point Medical Center, rather than be newly created in the county.

The proposed facility also would feature no more than 12 observation beds, two procedure rooms, 20 emergency department bays, two fixed CT scanners, one general radiology X-ray unit, one fluoroscopy X-ray unit, two ultrasound units, one SPECT scanner, one mammography unit and one fixed MRI unit.

In their 49-page analysis of the Baptist application, regulators indicated they did not view the proposed hospital as providing duplicative services, and that those services are needed in the community.

Yet, Cone asks in its ad that knowing that the plans also call for the inclusion of a helipad begs the question why here? There is a level 2 trauma center just minutes away at Moses Cone Hospital.

Baptist has the Triads only level 1 trauma center for adults.

Cone answered its question by saying the answer is likely to carry patients who required advanced medical care, that the proposed facility will be unequipped to provide, to Winston-Salem.

Who do you think will be asked to foot the bill for that very expensive 10-minute helicopter ride? Patients and their families, of course?

Atrium and Baptist have said patients will be transferred to the Winston-Salem hospital if they require a high-level care beyond the services provided at the proposed Greensboro hospital.

Its not all that different a transfer than how most of the community hospitals operated by Atrium, Baptist, Cone and Novant Health Inc. send high-level care patients to their main campuses.

Cone finished the ad with saying In our view, profits over patients is fundamentally backward.

People in our community already have options when it comes to health care, Cagle said. This decision runs counter to how CON is supposed to work.

Atrium proposal

Atrium said in its application that opening Greensboro Medical Center would be complementary and supplementary to Cones health care.

Approval of Greensboro Medical Center will enable Greensboro to match the other top five North Carolina cities in hosting multiple hospital systems and having local hospital competition, which will be a benefit to local residents, according to the Atrium application.

Baptist officials noted the High Point facility has improved with the opening of a high-risk obstetrics clinics, enhanced intensive care units and advanced technologies, including robotic surgical techniques.

Kevin High, Baptists president, was the presenter for the proposal. He touted that an Atrium- and Baptist-affiliated Greensboro hospital would provide a high quality of care, safety and services, particularly to lower-income patients.

This project is about how to most effectively improve access to acute care services in Guilford County, High said. This project is perfectly aligned with the basic principles of the state Medical Facilities Plan that serves to determine health care needs in regions across the state.

All residents in Guilford County would have access to our quality of care, regardless of ability to pay.
" " CORBEVAX uses recombinant DNA technology that many countries already have the infrastructure to produce. Alexandra Koch /Pixabay

The world now has a new COVID-19 vaccine in its arsenal, and at a fraction of the cost per dose.

Two years into the COVID-19 pandemic, the world has seen over 314 million infections and over 5.5 million deaths worldwide. Approximately 60 percent of the world population has received at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine. But there is still a glaring and alarming gap in global access to these vaccines. As a virologist who has followed this pandemic closely, I contend that this vaccine inequity should be of grave concern to everyone.

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If the world has learned anything from this pandemic, it's that viruses do not need a passport. And yet approximately 72 percent of vaccine doses were administered in high- and upper-middle-income countries  and only 1 percent in low-income countries. Wealthy countries are giving boosters, and even fourth doses, while first and second doses are not available to many worldwide.

But there is hope that a new vaccine called CORBEVAX will help close this vaccination gap.
Gov. Greg Gianforte appointed two charter school advocates to serve on a new commission tasked with overseeing their introduction to Montanas public education system, his office announced Tuesday.

The seven-member commission is responsible for approving authorizers for choice schools around the state. It will include two appointees by the governor and one each by the Superintendent of Public Education, the top Republicans from the House and Senate and the top Democrats from both chambers. The other appointees have not yet been announced.

The governor appointed Cathy Kincheloe of Whitefish and Trish Schreiber of Helmville to four-year terms.

Schreiber has been appointed to chair the new commission. She is an educational therapist for students with learning challenges, the press release stated. Schreiber is also a senior education fellow with the Frontier Institute, a Montana-based conservative think tank.

Kincheloe has over 20 years experience with public charter school organizations, including as a teacher, according to a press release from the governors office.

Passed by the Legislature this year, House Bill 562 allows charter schools to begin operating in Montana for the first time. Community choice schools would operate independently from local school districts, with exemptions from certification requirements and other standards. The schools would be validated under the commission, which sits beneath the Office of Public Instruction.

The law is being challenged in a lawsuit filed by the Montana Quality Education Coalition in June. The Montana League of Women Voters and two teachers, Jessica Felchle of Billings and Beau Wright of Kalispell, are also named plaintiffs in filing.

The lawsuit alleges the new law violates the state Constitution, which vests control and supervision of schools in each district with the local board of trustees and with the Montana Board of Education.
DECATUR  Community members have until Sept. 29 to provide feedback on the two options for a new commercial air service at Decatur Airport.

The U.S. Department of Transportation requested proposals on July 11 for Essential Air Service for a new contract term. The two companies that submitted proposals are Southern Airways Express LLC and Contour Airlines, and those proposals were posted online on Aug. 10.

In its proposal, Palm Beach, Florida-based Southern provides two options. The first is for 36 weekly round trips from Decatur to Chicago O'Hare International Airport. The second option calls for 24 weekly round trips to O'Hare and 12 weekly round trips to St. Louis Lambert International Airport. The proposal cites average fares of $67 and $63, respectively.

The proposal calls for the use of nine-passenger turboprop Cessna Grand Caravan aircraft. The company also operates Pilatus PC-12 turboprop aircraft. The company boasts 650 employees, 270 pilots and 50 aircraft, with partnerships with American, Alaskan, United and Hawaiian airlines.

Southern is seeking a first-year subsidy of $4.5 million and $4.1 million, respectively. The proposal is for a period of two to four years..

Contour's proposal calls for 1,248 "scheduled flight segments" to O'Hare with average fares of $65 on its 30-seat Embraer regional jet. The company began a partnership with American Airlines in 2019.

Smyrna, Tennessee-based Contour is seeking a $7.2 million federal subsidy for the first year. The proposal is for a period of three years.

The proposals are available online at regulations.gov under docket number DOT-OST-2006-23929, along with the request for comments on the proposals.

The U.S. Department of Transportation subsidizes Essential Air Service for communities like Decatur to ensure that people in less populated areas have access to air travel.

The new carrier will replace SkyWest Airlines, a regional partner of United Express, which has served Decatur since 2020. SkyWest announced in March 2022 that is seeking to end its contract to provide commercial service at 29 airports, including Decatur, citing a pilot shortage.

It offers 13 flights a week from Decatur to O'Hare.

Airport Director Tim Wright said it could be a month or even two after the end of the 45-day comment period before a decision is announced, but that Decatur will not be without air service while that process is underway.

When SkyWest was chosen in 2019, Decatur business leaders, including Archer Daniels Midland Co., expressed a preference for jet service rather than prop planes. That is still the case, Wright said.

"ADM does continue to use a commuter service for employees through SkyWest Airlines as schedules see fit," said ADM spokesman Dane Lisser.

Wright said he is unable to comment specifically on the proposals as yet.

"We're still in the process of looking at the proposals," Wright said, because the two proposals were just received.

The proposals were not extensively discussed at the August park board meeting, but should be on the agenda for the Sept. 6 meeting, he said.

History photos: Decatur Airport and aircraft Decatur Initial flight New airport 1932 Airplane Airplane Hangar Stunts Airplane hangar Decatur Aerial Visitors Dorothy Pryor and Lois Borchers Development Wells and Walker Proposed Airplane and hangar Three passenger plane Stringing wires Plane parts Flying instructors Airport Construction Airport dedication
The big show is here.

Farm Progress Show is at Decaturs Progress City for the 10th time, and this year may top all the prior ones, at least for weather, if nothing else. But there is an abundance of that else.

Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack, who made it to the 2022 Farm Progress Show in his home state of Iowa, is scheduled to attend the show in Decatur on Wednesday with members of Congress and plugging hard to get a new Farm Bill approved as soon and as efficiently as possible. That important legislation, which affects not only all farmers, but also all consumers of food, is threatened by political chaos as the current legislation expires at the end of September.

Unfortunately, in this country, food is highly political.

Vilsack also is expected to announce a significant investment that will help producers and small businesses in rural communities invest in clean energy systems, make energy-efficiency improvements, lower energy costs, and generate income, his office announced in a statement Tuesday.

Something quite noteworthy is a large tent at the intersection of 6th and East streets at Progress City, which has a green banner around the top of itproclaiming it is the home of both the Illinois Corn Growers and Illinois Soybean Associations. The alliance of those two organizations is quite noteworthy, both for their efforts to put politics aside, and jointly show their service to farmers who raise both corn and soybeans, which nearly all farmers do.

Their joint theme revolves around biofuels  because both corn and soybeans have found their way into the fuel tanks of both cars and trucks across the nation. Ethanol, biodiesel, renewable diesel, and sustainable aviation fuel all originate in corn and soybean fields, and the two associations are putting a double exclamation mark on their joint efforts.

A visitor to the Farm Progress Show will quickly notice that farm equipment is getting bigger in size, not to mention cost. But companies that put bright greens, reds, blues, and yellows in farm fields are all bidding for the attention of farmers who may need to increase their efficiency. And that is quite important. With labor being in short supply for farms, the few who are in the field have to plant and harvest faster and with more precision than great granddad, whose horses pulled a single moldboard plow.

Anyone thinking their new car is loaded with technology has a second thing coming if they could look into the cab of the new tractors and combines at the Farm Progress Show. The person in the cab is not just operating forward movement and turns, but adjusting how seed is planted, and grain is harvested.

But speaking of person in the cab, several exhibitors will be teasing farmers will technology that does not require a on-board operator. Whether it is a Monarch tractor or a Solinftec sprayer, visitors to the Farm Progress Show will be awed by engineering that recognizes an on-board operator is not a requirement.

Another direction of technology is seen with NEXAT, a European equipment company which makes a power unit that couples with attachments that do everything needed in the field from planting to harvesting.

Yes, the Big Show is here. Thanks, Decatur for helping make that happen.

A look back at Farm Progress through the years
STAUNTON  The videos of then two-year-old Khaleesi Cuthriell played to an Augusta County jury Monday were stark and brutal to watch.

Culled from social media and phone records of defendants in the case, the videos showed a once vivacious toddler with blonde hair reduced to a bruised, nearly bald and emaciated child, believed to have died only three months after being taken from her mothers custody. Estimates offered at Mondays trial indicate she died in January 2021. Her body was never recovered.

A video from January 2021 shows Khaleesi bruised, frail and unable to stand entirely up in the bathtub. Still photos of Khaleesi, also recovered through search warrants, show a bruised and cut face.

Augusta County resident Travis Brown, 31, one of two people charged in the case, went to trial Monday on charges of aggravated murder, felony murder and child abuse. Brown and his co-defendant and girlfriend, Candi Royer, were entrusted with Khaleesis care after her mother returned to prison for a parole violation in October 2020.

Augusta County Commonwealths Attorney Tim Martin said the evidence was developed in the case after the execution of 50 search warrants, including extensive work on Browns Cattle Scales Road home outside Waynesboro.

All of the police work shows horrific and mind-blowing facts about what happened, according to Martin. Blood taken from upstairs door frames at Browns home was Khaleesis blood.

Brown and Royer were caught in Pennsylvania in September 2021, soon after Khaleesi was reported missing by her imprisoned mother. The mother, Amanda Arey, testified Brown and Royer had failed to return her calls for months and said she had not talked to Khaleesi since January 2021.

Brown and Royer were found holed up in a Pennsylvania motel after traveling there in a stolen Toyota Camry.

Video from Browns interrogation in Pennsylvania by Augusta County Sheriffs investigators had him repeating that Khaleesi had been taken back into custody by child protective services a short time after she came to live with him and Royer.

Yet employees of Shenandoah Valley Social Services testified Monday they had no record of any follow-up contact with Brown and Royer, and never received any calls after Khaleesi went to live with them.

Brown told Augusta County Sheriffs investigators Khaleesi liked to be smacked and told them she fell and smacked her f. head all the time. He also said she was possessed.

When Augusta County Sheriffs investigator Mike Roane tells him his story and Royers about child protective services taking Khaleesi back are inconsistent, Brown is asked to tell what happened to the child. He says, Kill the camera.

Browns attorney, Dana Cormier, told jurors in his opening statement that they would see a lot of evidence during his clients trial, estimated to take a week.

But he pointed to Royer as the perpetrator of the abuse. Candi Royer physically, emotionally and psychologically abused Khaleesi, Cormier said. Cormier said by the trials end, the jury will not be able to determine anything other than Candi Royer abused her. Royer is set for trial in Augusta County in October.

Cormier said despite the prosecutions expected efforts, the jury wont know who, what or how or when Khaleesi died.

In completing his opening statement, Cormier told the jury, You will be outraged and heartbroken for Khaleesi, but it is your duty to follow the law.
Virginia Parole Board Chairman Chadwick Dotson will become director of the Department of Corrections, Gov. Glenn Youngkin said Monday.

The prison agencys current director, Harold Clarke, plans to leave the post in early September.

Patricia West, a former judge who served as a member of the State Corporation Commission, director of juvenile justice and secretary of public safety under Gov. George Allen, and as chief deputy attorney general under Ken Cuccinelli, will become chair of the parole board.

I will work every day to support DOCs front-line personnel ... and will focus efforts on addressing the ongoing staffing shortages faced by corrections systems across the country, said Dotson, a former Wise County judge and a former dean of students at the Appalachian School of Law.

We will be laser-focused on ridding our prisons of drugs, especially deadly fentanyl. But most of all, I want to ensure that our department never loses sight of our overriding purpose: public safety, he said.

Virginias corrections department houses some 25,000 inmates in its prisons, and is responsible for probation officers and a range of alternatives to incarceration, as well as for programs to help inmates return to society when they have served their sentences.

Clarke was named director of the department by Republican Gov. Bob McDonnell in 2010 and was reappointed by Democratic governors Terry McAuliffe and Ralph Northam.

Under his watch, for four of the past seven years, Virginia has seen the lowest rate in the nation of former inmates returning to prison on new convictions. In the other three years, the state had the second-lowest recidivism rate.

I really wanted to focus on re-entry ... helping people get out of the quagmire of punishment and then more crime  giving people a second chance; thats what creates public safety, he said.

Clarke began his corrections career in Nebraska and became that states director of corrections in 1990. He was appointed secretary of the Washington State Department of Corrections in 2005 and, in 2007, became commissioner of the Massachusetts Department of Corrections.

After 49 years, its time, he said. Ive been a director of corrections since 1990, in four states without a break.

The Virginia Department of Corrections has come under increased scrutiny in recent weeks.

The Associated Press reported Aug. 9 that the prison agency has refused to release records of complaints by inmates at the Marion Correctional Treatment Center in Southwest Virginia that is under scrutiny in the 2022 death of an inmate.

The AP reported that allegations that multiple inmates were treated for hypothermia arose as part of a lawsuit over Charles Givens death last year. The lawsuit alleges that Givens, who was intellectually disabled, was tortured and beaten by guards off camera.

On Aug. 3, the Richmond Times-Dispatch reported the department confirmed that three inmates at Greensville Correctional Center in Jarratt had died within 48 hours due to drug overdoses.

Youngkin has made reform of the parole board a priority of his administration.

Under previous administrations, the parole board failed to uphold the law and undermined the confidence of our citizens, he said.

While there is more work to be done, I am proud of Chairman Dotson for implementing changes to consider victims and their families, increase transparency, and follow the law, Youngkin said.

He said he is confident that Wests appointment will keep those changes on track.

I appreciate Chairman Dotsons desire to continue serving Virginians as the head of the Department of Corrections; Im grateful for the service of Director Clarke and his years leading Virginias largest government agency, Youngkin said.

The parole board, which decides when or if inmates can be released early, drew fire from Youngkin and from Attorney General Jason Miyares for its releases of inmates as the COVID-19 pandemic peaked.

Days after he was sworn in last year, Youngkin fired the board, saying an investigation revealed some of the inmates released had shortly before been denied parole, raising questions about the lawfulness of those abrupt reversals.

He said the board violated victims rights and broke state law by not giving the required notice to victims.

Miyares said the board had been in a parole-granting frenzy early in 2020 and had endangered public safety by releasing dozens of violent felons.

Earlier this year, Dotson issued a report saying the board did not have the funds or staff to deal with a backlog of 2,000 applications that it amassed in recent years.

Last year, the board received 3,320 applications for parole and granted 78.

Virginia abolished parole in 1995, but offenders sentenced before then are still eligible.

From the Archives: Virginia State Penitentiary Virginia State Penitentiary Virginia State Penitentiary Virginia State Penitentiary Virginia State Penitentiary Virginia State Penitentiary Virginia State Penitentiary Virginia State Penitentiary Virginia State Penitentiary Virginia State Penitentiary Virginia State Penitentiary Virginia State Penitentiary Virginia State Penitentiary Virginia State Penitentiary Virginia State Penitentiary Virginia State Penitentiary
GREENSBORO  The Early College at Guilford was named as the best public high school in the United States in rankings released by U.S. News & World Report on Monday.

The selective, application-only school has about 200 students and is run by Guilford County Schools on the campus of Guilford College in Greensboro. The school had placed 35th in the nation in the 2022 rankings.

Students take Advanced Placement and honors courses led by high school teachers in ninth and 10th grade. For 11th and 12th grades, the students transition into Guilford College courses, studying alongside undergraduates on campus.

The rankings for 2023-24 are mostly based on the Early College at Guilford's data from the 2020-21 school year, which was the first full school year impacted by the pandemic.

U.S. News & World Report ranks schools across the country on a half-dozen factors. About 50% relates to the school's state standardized test scores, with 10 percent of that specific to how Black, Hispanic and low-income students performed. Another 40% of the score relates to 12th graders' participation and scores with Advanced Placement or International Baccalaureate exams, and 10% relates to the graduation rate.

In an article analyzing this year's results, U.S. News & World Report journalist Sarah Wood noted that Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology in Virginia, which typically ranks first, dropped to No. 5 this year.

"Meanwhile, The Early College at Guilford in North Carolina jumped from No. 35 to claim the top spot," she wrote.

According to Wood, while the shifts with these schools rankings look big, there were only slight changes to their overall scores.

"... The Early College at Guilford  whose overall score increased from 99.8 to 100  showed gains in its assessment data, graduation rate, college readiness and college curriculum breadth outcomes," she wrote.

At the Early College at Guilford, 100 percent of students took and passed at least one AP exam, and 100 percent of ninth graders who entered graduated in four years. Reading proficiency was also 100 percent, according to the schools' U.S. News & World report score card.
From the local offices of the biggest tech companies in the world to homegrown startups, several IT companies are among the best places to work at in Australia, according to a new report.

The annual list by research firm Great Place to Work ranks companies based on a 60-question survey completed by nearly 50,000 employees across Australia.

IT companies enjoyed high positions on the list, which is separated into four categories based on the number of employees at the organisation.

Global tech giant Cisco was named by Great Place to Work as the best place to work in Australia for large companies with more than 1,000 employees for the third time running. Based in North Sydney in NSW, Ciscos Australia branch has just under 1,400 employees, and the report attributed much of its success in the list to the companys overarching social purpose.

Cisco has a goal of positively impacting 1 billion people by 2025, and has reached 848 million people through its social impact grants and signature programs.

No matter where you are on your Cisco career journey, there is always someone to listen to your ideas, a Cisco employee quoted in the report said.

Cisco has topped the same list for the last three years, and was also included in the Diversity Council of Australias 30 inclusive employers list for 2022-23  one of only two tech companies to be featured.

Homegrown tech giant Atlassian was named as the third best large company to work at in Australia, with positive feedback from its 3,387 employees across the country.

Its the second year running that Atlassian has taken out the third position.

The relatively position on the list comes despite the company announcing earlier this year that it would be cutting 500 jobs in Australia.

The only other tech firm to feature in the large business category was Melbourne-based property platform REA Group, which came in at number five, a drop of one place from last year.

Tech giant Salesforce was a notable absentee on the list, after previously featuring in the top three for the last seven years running.

Another global tech firm was named as the best medium-sized company to work at in Australia, with Adobes Australian office landing the top position in the category for companies with between 100 and 999 employees.

Legal technology company InfoTrack, which is based in Sydney and has 336 employees, came in at number five in the same category.

Our unique culture connects somewhere between a continual drive for improvement, a desire for innovation and a genuine need to put our people first, InfoTrack head of culture and people Daniel Ko said.

We are very proud of this accomplishment and will strive to continue to be the best workplace for everyone at InfoTrack.

Other tech firms that featured in the best medium-sized companies to work at include Mantel Group, AirTrunk, DiUS, Qualtrics, Carsales.com.au and Prospa.

In terms of small workplaces with less than 99 employees, Macquarie Cloud Services was ranked as the second-best in Australia to work at.

One Macquarie Cloud Services employee was quoted in the report as saying the organisation had created an inclusive and supportive environment.

Its amazing to know Im at a workplace that cares about me personally and professionally and they really do put their people first, the employee said.

This culture of support and care is seen across all employees, and I feel heartened to know that the belief in our company values is real and seen in everything we do.

A number of other tech firms were included in the small company category, including Pendula, Engaging.io, Quorum, Kasada and Intelia.

For micro companies with less than 29 employees, IT companies Katana1, Gridware and triSearch were listed as among the best to work at.
CHARLOTTE  Gov. Roy Cooper announced Tuesday an investment to help tackle North Carolinas school bus driver shortage crisis by allocating $1 million in federal funding to the Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) in the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) to enhance school bus driver training capacity.

The shortage of school bus drivers is a serious concern for school districts, causes problems for families, and impacts student well-being and learning. Cooper made the announcement at a Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools bus lot where he toured the facility, spoke with bus drivers and education leaders and called on the legislature to pass a budget that invests in public schools.

North Carolina desperately needs more school bus drivers and the way to get them is to pay them more and train them faster, Cooper said. If Legislative Republicans would do their jobs and pass a strong public education budget now, we could better attack this challenge. Until then these funds are important to help get our children to and from school reliably and safely.

One of the primary challenges identified by both school districts and the North Carolina DMV is the extended time it takes to train newly hired bus drivers due to trainer staffing shortages and an increased number of trainees. In response, Cooper has taken decisive actions to address this issue and bolster the states school bus driver workforce.

Earlier this year, Cooper proposed almost $1 million in recurring funding in his FY 2023-25 budget to employ 10 additional school bus driver trainers within the DMV. In addition, he proposed a 9.5% salary increase across two years for bus drivers and an 8% increase for school bus driver trainers at DMV.

The governors budget also included a $1,500 retention bonus for school bus drivers and school bus driver trainers making less than $75,000 and a $1,000 bonus if they make more than $75,000. Faced with the continued failure of Republican legislators to pass a budget and address the school bus driver shortage, Cooper is empowering the DMV to expand its training capacity, with the goal of putting more well-trained school bus drivers on North Carolinas roads.

The plan includes hiring up to seven temporary trainers, one for each NCDOT region, to accelerate the training process. This investment will be utilized to employ former school bus driver trainers who have expressed interest in helping expedite training of new bus drivers.

This investment will also provide retention bonuses of up to $3,000 to current school bus driver training employees. This incentive seeks to recognize their dedication and support in staying with the state, ultimately enhancing the training capacity.

In addition to hiring trainers and providing retention bonuses, funds will be used to purchase two dedicated training buses. This will enable DMV to conduct training sessions more efficiently and without constraints on borrowing buses from school districts, which are sometimes unavailable, thus improving the overall training process.

These initiatives are part of Coopers unwavering commitment to the education and safety of North Carolinas students. By addressing one of the root causes of the school bus driver shortage, this investment aims to create a more robust and reliable public school transportation network for students across the state.

Funding for this initiative is from federal Emergency Assistance for Non-Public Schools (EANS) funds that have reverted to the Governors Emergency Education Relief (GEER) fund.
The Kannapolis Rotary Club honored one of its outstanding members and welcomed a new member at a recent meeting.

A Presidential Service plaque was presented to Robert Kanofsky, the previous president of Kannapolis Rotary Club, for his three years of service. His tenure included time before, during and after the COVID-19 pandemic.

Kanofsky went beyond the call of duty is his service to the club, especially in the trying times of the pandemic, said Rod Armstrong, current club president.

Kannapolis Rotary also inducted a new member, Ashly Crockett. She was sponsored by Kate Underwood.
GUEST OPINION: The world is interconnected with the help of technology. Technology has become a part of our lives, especially in the form of Smart Homes. We just cannot deny using it. However, the concept of a smart home has turned from a dream into a reality. It is just convenient, efficient, and provides us enhanced control.

However, the true magic happens when all the devices work together, then it form a smart home ecosystem.

Here the blog talks about the process of creating an ecosystem by understanding compatibility and interconnections. Also, we will interact with the smart home experiences and the Promo Codes and coupons to save money on Smart Home Devices.

Understanding Compatibility and Interoperability

Compatibility: The foundation of a seamless smart home ecosystem lies in choosing devices that are compatible with one another. Compatibility means the ability of different devices to work together. They get interconnected and communicate effectively. Before making any purchases, make sure that the devices you're considering can integrate seamlessly. Manufacturers often provide compatibility information on their websites or packaging, indicating which platforms or protocols their devices support.

Interoperability: Interoperability takes compatibility a step further. It's the capability of devices from different manufacturers to not only work together but also to exchange data and perform coordinated actions. Devices that adhere to common communication protocols like Wi-Fi, Zigbee, or Z-Wave are more likely to achieve interoperability. When devices can communicate seamlessly, you can create complex automation scenarios that truly transform your daily life.

Steps to Building a Seamless Smart Home Ecosystem

Centralized Hub or Platform: Consider investing in a centralized hub or platform that acts as the brain of your smart home. These hubs serve as command centres, allowing you to manage and control various devices through a single interface. Examples include Amazon Echo, Google Nest Hub, and Samsung SmartThings. Choose a hub that supports a wide range of devices and integrates with your preferred voice assistants.

Planning and Research: Before purchasing any new smart device, conduct thorough research to ensure compatibility with your existing ecosystem. Read reviews, check manufacturer specifications, and verify compatibility lists. This proactive approach prevents the frustration of buying devices that won't work seamlessly together.

Single App Management: Whenever possible, try to centralize device management within a single app. Many smart device manufacturers offer dedicated apps, but some hubs also allow you to control third-party devices from their own apps. Consolidating control simplifies daily usage and reduces the need to switch between multiple apps.

Automation and Scenes: The true power of a smart home ecosystem lies in automation. Create "scenes" or automation routines that trigger specific actions based on certain conditions. For instance, you can set up a "Good Morning" scene that turns on lights, adjusts the thermostat, and plays your favourite morning playlist when you wake up.

Testing and Fine-Tuning: As you add new devices and create automation routines, periodically test and fine-tune their interactions. This ensures that everything works as intended and helps you catch any potential issues before they become major disruptions.

Optimizing Device Interactions for a Truly Smart Home Experience

Naming and Grouping: Assign clear and intuitive names to your devices, especially if you have multiple devices of the same type. Group devices that serve a similar purpose, such as grouping all lights in the living room, to facilitate easy control.

Voice Control and Integration: Connect your smart home ecosystem to a voice assistant like Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant. Voice commands streamline device control and add an extra layer of convenience to your smart home experience.

Security and Privacy: Prioritize security and privacy by regularly updating firmware and software, using strong passwords, and enabling two-factor authentication where possible. Be cautious about granting permissions and sharing data with third-party apps.

Regular Maintenance: Just like any technology, smart devices require maintenance. Regularly check for firmware updates, replace batteries, and ensure that devices are still functioning as expected.

Saving While You Transform

We understand that building a seamless smart home ecosystem involves investments in technology. Fortunately, there are ways to bring down the costs and make your journey towards a smarter home more budget-friendly. Keep an eye out for special deals, promotions, and discounts from manufacturers and retailers. Online Stores often offer coupons that can provide significant savings on smart home devices.

Additionally, consider subscribing to newsletters or following the social media accounts of your favourite brands to stay informed about upcoming sales events. By strategically using coupons and taking advantage of discounts, you can make the process of creating a seamless smart home ecosystem not only efficient but also cost-effective. After all, building a more intelligent and convenient home should also be a smart financial decision.

End Note

Follow these steps, and you'll create an ecosystem of smart devices that work seamlessly together, adapting to meet your needs and preferences. A truly smart home ecosystem goes beyond individual gadgets; rather, it encapsulates an experience designed to improve daily life while simplifying interactions with technology. So go ahead - build the future of your home step by step.
For the tech industry, Artificial Intelligence (AI) has been evolving for some time. But with the launch of ChatGPT and Google Bard, its clear that generative AI is having a smartphone moment, where a new, transformative technology fundamentally changes how we live, work and play. Suddenly, the everyday person can appreciate the power of this technology and how it might change many aspects of our lives.

Thanks to AI, new businesses are emerging, and established companies are assessing how the technology will transform their operations. In a world driven by increasingly massive amounts of data, the partnership between humans and machines becomes more important than ever. AI will take on more mundane and repetitive tasks, while also supporting increased creativity that will open up new roles were yet to imagine. AI will create massive possibilities for individuals and business, but we also need to ensure introduced and used ethically and responsibly. At Dell, weve created an AI Use Case Review Board to make certain everything we do within AI meets the standards we, and society, expect.

However the AI revolution plays out, people will need AI skills to bolster their professional lives. This is why leadership is required, both from government and industry, to equip the average Australian for an AI-enabled future so they can use AI tools to enhance their abilities and find new skills.

While jobs will change, according to Adobes, Future of Digital Work Australia report, most Australian knowledge workers think that generative AI has the potential to help them in their roles (68%) or is miraculous (23%). Really, we are at the beginning of an exploding AI market, and we cant underestimate the impact it will have on both business and the nature of work.

AI will have broad economic benefits, with generative AI projected to contribute $150B to the global enterprise software market, according to Goldman Sachs. Closer to home, the CSIRO estimates Australia could grow its economy by billions by 2028, if we double down on digital technologies, including AI.

But it only happens if we manage it carefully and plan accordingly. We need digitally skilled workers to develop and use these technologies, and, as it stands, Australia simply doesnt have enough tech people to go around. The Tech Council of Australia says we will need one million more people employed in tech by 2025, but current estimates indicate there will be a shortfall of around 268,000 employees.

The question that needs to be asked is whether enough is being done in Australia to train the tech workers it needs. The Australian Information Industry Association (AIIA), which I Chair, identified in its Digital State of the Nation 2023: AIIA Member Survey that cyber security and artificial intelligence (AI) skills are most in demand in 2023, with AI skills hardest to find in Australia.

Further highlighting in its 5 June 2023 Media Release that AIIA members reveal the education system does not provide job-ready graduates, with nearly half of the respondents reporting additional training is needed for graduates to be effective employees. These findings are sobering and highlight the need for Australia to not only invest more in education and training, but to become internationally competitive in AI we must provide support for the next generation of organisations that will emerge.

Getting Ready for the AI Future

Theres more to be done to improve reliability, bias, and security before Generative AI becomes ubiquitous. Large language models are trained on publicly available data, as well as whatever the user types into the prompt box. This creates a potential for people to unwittingly reveal sensitive corporate data when theyre using AI for work.

This risk has led to many companies clamping down on their staff using generative AI for client work. In industries such as finance and healthcare, that must adhere to strict regulations around the control of sensitive data, policies need to quickly evolve to ensure employees know how to keep data safe.

These concerns around security and confidentiality mean as businesses look to harness the potential of AI we are likely to see the emergence of Virtual Private Large Language Models (VPLLMs) that harness proprietary data sets intended to protect core IP. Building on this theme, Dell Technologies and NVIDIA have announced Dell Generative AI Solutions, a joint initiative to make it easier for businesses to build and use generative AI models on-premises to quickly and securely deliver better customer service, market intelligence, enterprise search and a range of other capabilities.

These private AI systems will still require staff with the AI skills to build, train and develop them to ensure the right business outcomes. The concern is if Australia is not training enough people with these critical skills, then domestic organisations could fall behind the steep curve of development and adoption.

This is where executive leadership is needed. Supporting the creation of new AI roles and skills development is something that needs to come from the top. Leaders can, and must, drive the cultural change needed for these jobs of the future. They need to lead on everything from strategy and implementation to training and communication.

While executive leadership is critical, at a national level the establishment of the CSIROs National Artificial Intelligence Centre is a step in the right direction. Its charter is to responsibly and ethically scale AI in Australia, and additional investment in the NAIC this year is directed at building national AI capability. For this reason, deepening the skilled AI talent pool is even more important.

Academia is also starting to pivot to AI, with top educational institutions like the Universities of Melbourne and Sydney, along with Monash University and the University of Queensland, all offering AI and data science-focused degrees. But for these graduates to be truly effective, industry partnerships are needed so the students are ready for the AI jobs of the future. At Dell Technologies, our mission is to create technologies that drive human progress, and for us, the human element will always be key to doing that.

Despite these investments in training and capability, theres still more that needs to be done. As the AIIA report shows, right now theres a skills gap and its starting to widen, but, with government, education and industry working together, we have the opportunity to ensure Australia remains competitive on a global scale.
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 The New York Times cited a survey claiming a ten percent drop in violent crimes in big cities this year, prompting critics to say the crimes just go unreported. Far too many crimes go unsolved. Just last week Bob Barker died in Los Angeles and police are questioning a Rottweiler that was recently neutered.

 Bob Barker died in L.A. Saturday, twenty years after he retired from a fifty-year run hosting game shows including The Price is Right. Bob Barker died at the age of ninety-nine and nine months, just three months shy of a hundred. That's about as close as you can get to one hundred without going over.

 Congress will investigate Pentagon whistleblower testimony that the U.S. possesses crashed UFOs and dead space aliens. It's an attempt to change our culture. At the very least, Homeland Security must close our southern border to space aliens considering how much flying saucers look like sombreros.

 The Times of India reports hundreds of millions of Indians stayed up late Tuesday to watch India become the first nation in history to land a spacecraft safely on the south pole of the moon. It is both thrilling and puzzling. Scientists cannot explain the sudden swarm of flies on the south pole of the moon.

 Donald Trump's GOP campaign raised seven million dollars in one day Saturday selling t-shirts bearing Trump's mug shot above the inscription Never Surrender! That t-shirt could get Trump sued. Never Surrender! was Georgia's state motto for over a hundred years and the trademark hasn't run out.

 Hunter Biden fled all the White House scrutiny to rent a house in Malibu this week. If the FBI found donut crumbs in Chris Christie's house or vodka spilled on Nancy Pelosi's carpet, they would know whose it was. But finding cocaine in a cokehead's house is the next episode of Unsolved Mysteries.

 President Biden while vacationing in Lake Tahoe Friday was asked by reporters if hed seen Trumps mugshot. The president grinned and said yes, hes seen the mug shot and that Trump is a handsome, good-looking man. When a pit bull is licking you, he is not being friendly, he is basting you. President Biden just enjoyed a relaxing week while on vacation in Lake Tahoe. He'd also gone on vacation the week before to his beach house in Delaware. President Biden is under fire for going on vacation for a second time in one month, but to be fair, he doesn't remember his first vacation.

 Senator Bernie Sanders caused a panic among Democrats Saturday by going to New Hampshire and giving a campaign-style speech. He's a life-long committed socialist. When Bernie was a kid and he and his pals used to play Cowboys and Indians, Bernie always played the Chinese railroad worker.

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CHARLESTON  Eastern Illinois University will host BSR 2023, its annual Black Student Reunion, with a variety of events on campus and in the community.

The event, set for Friday, Sept. 1 though Sunday, Sept. 3, will support scholarships for EIU students.

Friday, Sept. 1

 Welcome reception/old school social with a BSR happy hour and silent auction from 7 p.m. to midnight at U-Hotel, located at 920 W. Lincoln Ave. in Charleston. Co-sponsored by EIUs Alumni Services.

Saturday, Sept. 2

 Coffee and Conversation State of the Black Student; 10 to 11 a.m. in the Charleston/Mattoon Rooms of the MLK, Jr. University Union.

 College of Education Conversation featuring EIU teachers, counselors, assistant principals, principals and superintendents from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. in the Effingham Room of the MLK, Jr. University Union.

 EIU Ancestral Walk (African American Tour) from 11 a.m. to noon beginning in the Circle Drive on the east side of Old Main.

 Ultimate Day Party/Pop-Up Shops in EIUs Cultural Center from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. in EIUs Cultural Center, located on 7th Street directly east of Old Main.

 Step Show from 7 to 9 p.m. in McAfee Gymnasium.

 Wakanda Party, (Step Show After Party) from 10 p.m. to 1:30 a.m. in the University Ballroom.

 Grown Folks Party (25 and Older), 9 p.m. to midnight at U-Hotel.

Sunday, Sept. 3

 Gospel Brunch; 10:30 a.m. to noon in the Grand Ballroom of the MLK, Jr. University Union.

 The BSR 2023 group picture at 12:30 p.m. on the steps outside Doudna. Participants are encouraged to wear their BSR T-shirts.

For more information about EIUs BSR 2023 event, visit eiu.edu/oiae/bsr.php
Two onetime high-school friends from Puerto Rico have combined forces to open a supercontinent of a restaurant in Greensboro.

Pangaea Bistro & Bar opened Aug. 8 at 230 S. Elm St.

Juan Cirino, a former manager of White & Wood, co-owns the restaurant with Jason Wilson, a real-estate developer based in Danville, Va. Cirinos longtime friend Carlos Roman is the chef.

Pangaea (pronounced Pan-JEE-Uh) translates as all earth or whole earth but more specifically refers to the idea of a supercontinent from hundreds of millions of years ago.

Cirino learned about that supercontinent idea while explaining his restaurant concept to someone, saying that he and Roman wanted to offer tastes of food from all over the world. When I heard what it meant, I was, Thats it! Cirino said.

But the restaurant itself first grew out of a relationship that Cirino forged with Wilson, a regular customer at White & Wood.

I met Jason Wilson at White & Wood, and we got to be friends, Cirino said. He approached me about managing his pawn shops  he has like 10 pawn shops. I thought, Im not your guy for this, but I told him, If you ever decide to open a restaurant, I got you. And he was like, Lets do it.

Wilson said he didnt hesitate to jump into the restaurant business because of his faith in Cirino. I was very comfortable with Juan and his vision for the restaurant. And the combination of me doing the real estate and him running the restaurant made sense, Wilson said.

Pangaea Bistro & Bar Address: 230 S. Elm St., Greensboro, N.C. 27401 Phone: 336-579-9962 Hours: 5 to 9 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday and 3 p.m. to midnight Friday and Saturday. Reservations: OpenTable.com Instagram: @pangaea_gso Facebook: Pangaea Bistro & Bar

Once Cirino hooked up with Wilson, he called his old friend Roman.

The two had met in high school in their native Puerto Rico. We both took this culinary arts program, Cirino said. Thats where I realized I wasnt the best at (cooking), but thats where I met Carlos.

Cirino quickly decided that customer service was where he excelled.

Growing up, my dad used to own a gas station. It had full service. So, I was washing peoples windshields and everything, that was my first service job, Cirino said.

Roman and Cirino went their separate ways. Cirino tended bar at Hilton hotels in Puerto Rico, while Roman cooked for the Ritz-Carlton there  right up until Hurricane Maria shut it down in 2017.

That sent Roman traveling to work at restaurants in the United States as well as Aruba, Cayman Islands, Ecuador and Thailand  learning more skills from and appreciation for a wide variety of cuisines.

In the Caymans, I learned a lot, because people (in the kitchen) came from all over, Roman said.

Cirino, meanwhile, came to the United States, first to Baton Rouge, then to Greensboro. He quickly landed a spot at White & Wood and worked his way up to manager.

All the while, Cirino kept in touch with his old friend, whom he eventually asked to join in at Pangaea  even before he knew what kind of restaurant it would be. We started talking about it two years agoa lot of Whats App conversations, a lot of Facetime. Within two years, Carlos had built 6, 10 different menus.

What they eventually decided on is a short, eclectic menu that they plan to be changing all the time, Cirino said.

Pangaea is open for dinner only. It seats about 90, including a small indoor/outdoor space in the front that can be open or enclosed depending on the weather. It has a full bar and a curated wine list that leans toward French wines.

The restaurant has the buildings original hardwood floors, now restored, and exposed brick along one wall. Seating is a mix of bar stools, tables and banquettes. The restaurant is decorated with dark colors but strategically placed lighting keeps the atmosphere balanced.

Pangaea uses OpenTable for reservations. Service is designed to be attentive and informed but casual. We dont like to call it fine dining. We are not a tablecloth restaurant, Cirino said. Its a high caliber of service, but servers wear sneakers and polos. We say were serving elevated comfort food.

Roman calls the menu traditional with modern plating. That is, though the restaurant combines a lot of different cuisines, he isnt necessarily creating fusion dishes.

But Roman isnt above experimentation.

Carlos strongest cuisine is Asian cuisine  thats what he really enjoys the most, Cirino said. But every time he cooks something, Im like, How does he do it? Its the techniques he uses, things I have never seen in my life.

For example, the menu includes a watermelon tartare and people dont even realize theyre eating watermelon, not tuna, Cirino said.

Current appetizers, starting at $12, include yukhoe, or Korean seasoned raw beef; eggplant Parmesan; shrimp ceviche; and scallop Rockefeller.

Small plates ($11 to $25) include croquette with serrano ham; caviar and blinis; and sweet plantain and potato gnocchi.

Besides the watermelon tartare, other salads include one with mozzarella foam, tomatoes and charred onion. The menu offers such sandwiches as pork bao ($15) and lobster and crab grilled cheese ($19).

Among the entrees are two kinds of paella ($32): with shrimp and mussels, or with lamb chops. Other entrees include ribeye steak, salmon ravioli and kai yang Thai grilled chicken. The latter is marinated for three days, the traditional way, but then cooked with sous-vide for six hours before being finished on the grill.

Desserts include canoli, lava cake and tembleque (Puerto Rican coconut pudding) foam.

We are trying to bring another experience to Greensboro, Cirino said. Were here to push our limits to see how far we can go on our cuisine.

He said he also wants to bring people together  just as the name Pangaea implies.

We have a belief that if we want bring everybody together  one of the ways we can do that is by food. Thats what were striving for.
A Medicaid expansion expected to affect between 450,000 and 650,000 North Carolina again has been delayed  this time without a new projected start date  because state Republican legislative leaders have not agreed on a 2023-24 state budget.

Kody Kinsley, the states health secretary, said Monday expansion wont start Oct. 1.

Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper signed the bipartisan Medicaid expansion bill into law on March 27.

With a signed state budget, the N.C. Department of Health and Human Services is authorized to submit a State Plan amendment to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.

However, without a signed state budget, House Bill 76 would expire on July 1, 2024, meaning North Carolina wouldnt become the 40th expansion state.

Kinsley cautioned July 26 that if NCDHSS did not gain legislative authority to move forward by Sept. 1, the next potential start date would be Dec. 1.

A new launch date will not be determined until the General Assembly provides final authority, NCDHHS said. Without more clarity on when that will occur, NCDHHS is not able to commit to a timeline beyond its control.

Cooper and other Democratic cabinet and legislative leaders have urged Republicans to reach a state budget compromise before Sept. 1 or remove Medicaid expansion funding from the budget.

Sen. Joyce Krawiec, R-Forsyth, and a key Senate healthcare bill sponsor, said Monday "there are no plans to decouple Medicaid expansion from the budget."

The Associated Press has reported that House speaker Tim Moore, R-Cleveland, and Senate leader Phil Berger, R-Rockingham, expect a budget compromise and final vote by mid-September.

Analysts say the refusal to separate Medicaid expansion funds represents leverage against a potential Cooper veto of the state budget bill.

Rep. Donny Lambeth, R-Forsyth, a lead sponsor of the Medicaid expansion law, said Monday that there are no plans to start over with a Medicaid bill that separates it from the budget.

We will vote the budget out the week of Sept 11, Lambeth said. Now is not the time to reverse course. I understand lots of politics comes into play and has been over the years. But lets get the budget done and move on.

Kinsley said delaying Medicaid expansion tragically results in hundreds of thousands of people not being able to access care when they may need it most.

Kinsley expressed confidence that nearly half of the people eligible for expansion (about 300,000) would be automatically enrolled in full coverage on Day One despite current NCDHSS workforce shortfalls.

Some of those North Carolinians are included in the states Family Benefits program that is a light version of what Medicaid expansion would provide, while others will be identified when they apply and determined to be ineligible for federal health insurance coverage.

Each month of delay costs the state hundreds of millions of dollars flowing into communities across North Carolina to support care and treatment for people and help keep providers doors open.

Moving forward

North Carolinians who would likely be eligible under an expanded program are those between the ages of 18 and 64 who earn too much to qualify for Medicaid coverage, but not enough to purchase coverage on the private insurance marketplace.

NCDHHS cited as examples that expansion would give health care coverage to single individuals making under about $20,000 a year. Likewise, a family of three earning under about $34,000 combined would be eligible.

Kinsley said DHHS continues to make progress on getting the extensive policy and technical work ready to go when funding is available.

NCDHHS said being able to take conditional enrollment steps will allow it to reduce the original implementation period to as few as 30 days upon receiving legislative authority, from the initial projections of requiring between 90 and 120 days.

NCDHHS has been completing the extensive policy and technical work necessary to launch and working with our partners to be ready, Kinsley said. Unfortunately, this delay will further strain providers who are gearing up to serve people who would be newly eligible.

Medicaid expansion will be transformative for access to health care in rural areas, for better mental health and for veterans, working adults and their families while bringing billions in federal dollars to the state.

Kinsley said he is hopeful the House and Senate budget negotiations will yield healthcare benefits beyond Medicaid expansion, such as additional funding for behavioral and mental health services, and alleviate some of NCDHSS workforce shortfall of up to 26% recently.

Disenrollment grows

More than 68,100 North Carolinians have lost their Medicaid coverage  at least temporarily  as part of the ending of the national COVID-19 public-health emergency in May.

On April 1, the state Medicaid program began a mandated recertification for an estimated 2.59 million Medicaid beneficiaries, or 23.9% of the states 10.83 million residents. The process of recertifications is scheduled to end March 31, 2024.

The federal Department of Health and Human Services had put those recertifications on hold for much of the pandemic.

The first four months of recertifications covered 598,495 North Carolinians, of which 330,591 recertifications had been completed by July 31, according to the NCDHHS website.

Of those completed recertifications during July, 74.5%, or 90,996 beneficiaries, were determined to be eligible.

There have been 59,762 North Carolinians who have their benefits since July 1 for procedural reasons, such as missing paperwork, incomplete documentation or could not be reached by a caseworker.

Another 8,637 North Carolinians were found to no longer meet eligibility requirements for any Medicaid program. NCDHHS said it did not have a county breakdown of those affected.

About 9,000 of those people would be likely to be able to stay on if we had expansion in place, Kinsley said.
They do exist

So Cal Thomas thinks mentioning LGBTQ+ aloud in school is "force-feeding ideology" (Aug. 29).

He tells us it is indoctrination that is preventing parents from instilling their religion in their children. So, if we don't read it or hear it, it doesn't exist?

I grew up with the McGuffey Readers  Dick, Jane, Sally and Spot. They were all white, with the exception of Spot, whose name said it all.

We neither read nor heard anything about other races. They were still there and leaving them out of our teaching was hurtful and slowed a greater understanding and respect among all of our people.

Isn't it time for us to stop pretending people don't exist?

Robyn Mixon

Winston Salem

A cruel delay

Once again, we see the Republican leadership (Senate leader Phil Berger and House Speaker Tim Moore) and their minions play politics with people's lives. Delaying the enactment of medicaid expansion is cruel to hundreds of thousands of North Carolinians.

Wonder how long this would take to pass if some of their families were in need of medical care that they could not afford.

They need to start thinking of what is best for their constituents and quit playing the politics game.

Bill Vaassen

Rural Hall

What you can do

Dry your white woman tears. Repress your white male fragility. Of course, youre not responsible for slavery. You didnt own slaves. Slavery is not yours to bear.

You do, however, bear the responsibility of fighting the continuing legacy of slavery today. Stand up for voting rights and fairly drawn voting maps. Fight for fully funded public schools and high-quality child care that works for all children. Demand a living wage for all Americans. Understand that Black men and women are killed by police at higher rates than white people, and that gun violence disproportionally affects minorities. Understand that restricting abortion access unfairly targets low-income people and minorities.

I know that there are numerous other examples, but you get the point, Im sure.

Now work to make this country a safer place for them.

Our country has just marked the 60th anniversary of the March on Washington. You would think that we would be much further along, and to be sure, we were, but we are back-sliding.

Racial inequities in this country continue to mount with every Supreme Court ruling and every red-state policy passed. What are you doing about it? What stand are you taking? What will your legacy be when you pass on?

Have you ever wondered what you would have done during slavery? During Jim Crow? Look at your life now. What you are doing now is exactly what you would have done then. How do you wish to be remembered? Act on that starting now.

Kathy Kirkpatrick

Greensboro

Protect our schools

Instead of passing a budget to fund our public schools for 2023-24, the North Carolina General Assembly has chosen to once again attack our public schools. On Aug. 16, the N.C. General Assembly overrode five gubernatorial vetoes and passed additional legislation. The legislation discriminates against LGBTQ+ students and families and further dismantles our already-suffering North Carolina public school system by siphoning funds and resources away from traditional public schools and giving it away to unaccountable private and charter schools.

SB 49, HB 574, and HB 808 are a direct attack on our students, teachers and caregivers who are LGBTQ+ community members. These new laws create dangerous conditions for students and workers in our schools when lawmakers top priority should be keeping our kids and public school workers safe.

HB 219 and HB 618 allow expansion and further deregulation of charter schools at the expense of public resources. Legislation like this is a direct attack on our public schools. Public dollars belong in public schools.

The vast majority of North Carolinians support their local public schools and want their schools funded appropriately. The General Assembly has chosen to engage in the culture wars rather than doing the job they were elected to do: pass a state budget.

Educators and parents alike want our students to receive equitable and excellent education. Our students need and deserve the freedom to learn in an inclusive, culturally responsive public education system in which every student and educator is treated with dignity and respect, no exceptions.

Joanna Pendleton

Greensboro
John Kazas, who learned how to cook at the age of 16 while working on a cargo ship from Greece, would later educate Lincoln on his native fare.

He opened up Papa John's Greek Family Restaurant, spending two decades toiling in the kitchen before helping his sons open The Parthenon, the Greek restaurant that closed in 2022.

And in those 40 years, a legacy was created.

"He brought authentic Greek food to Lincoln," said his daughter Stella Kalogeras. "At that time, there was a lot of fake Greek food. He brought the first authentic Greek food here."

Kazas, known affectionately as Papa John, died Aug. 19 at the age of 78.

"He always had on his trademark apron and enjoyed talking with everyone," said former Journal Star restaurant writer Jeff Korbelik. "He was a good man."

Korbelik, who wrote "Lost Restaurants of Lincoln" in 2018, decided a comprehensive chronicle of Lincoln's dining history couldn't be told without Kazas.

"I had a chapter on the downtown restaurant he owned," he said. "I sat down with he and his wife (Despina) at (The) Parthenon.

"That's the last time I talked to him."

Kazas arrived in America in 1960 with $20 in his pocket. He took a memorable route to Lincoln with stops in New York, where he was a prep cook at the Copacabana restaurant and club, and in Dubuque, Iowa.

He met Despina in Dubuque and then was given a chance to become a franchisee for three Bonanza Steakhouse restaurants, including one in Lincoln.

But he wanted to cook his food and bring some of his culture to Middle America. So he split from his contract with Bonanza and opened Papa John's with his wife and six children serving as the wait staff.

"Life lessons were learned in Papa John's," said Kalogeras, who preferred working at the restaurant to going to school. "It was comical sometimes. It was hard work. ... I'll remember his humor, his smile and the work ethic he taught us."

Make no mistake, Papa John's was a family restaurant. So was The Parthenon, which was the kind of place that played host to special family gatherings.

It was where Korbelik and his wife Rebecca had their first date and where they celebrated the anniversary of that first date each year.

There are countless others in Lincoln who can earmark memorable days and dates with a plate of pastitsio, which is a Greek-style lasagna, or maybe a gyro or Greek salad.

"Every portion was humongous  I think that's why we're all kind of chunky," Kalogeras said.

Still, as important as the family business was to Kazas, his family always came first, his daughter said.

"He taught us to honor your name and do right by it," Kalogeras said. "He was an amazing husband, father and grandfather. We're very blessed. Our parents came here at an early age. They didn't know the language.

"They didn't have more than 20 bucks in their pocket, but they knew they were going to make it."

Kazas' funeral service is set for noon Tuesday at Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church, 950 N. 63rd St., followed by internment at Wyuka Cemetery, 3600 O St.

Lost restaurants of Lincoln Kings Food Host The Knolls County Club Tony and Luigis P.O. Pears Crane River Brewpub and Cafe Acme Chili Grill Ks Restaurant Tony Dominos Italian Village Arturos Bishop Buffet Tastee Inn and Out
A new legal clinic at the University of Nebraska College of Law will tackle First Amendment issues for members of the press and others in the Cornhusker state.

The First Amendment Clinic, which is funded through a $1 million grant from the Stanton Foundation, will be open to third-year law students beginning in the spring semester.

Those students, who will work under the supervision of a pair of licensed attorneys, will provide legal representation for cases related to freedom of speech, the press, assembly and petition.

The clinic will also conduct education and outreach for organizations, students, journalists and others.

Richard Moberly, the dean of the College of Law, said the clinic creates "another meaningful way for our students to advance justice and solve problems."

"Our clinical programs help students develop skills as they work on real cases and are a highlight in many students' law school careers," Moberly said.

A pair of Nebraska Law graduates will lead the clinic. Daniel Gutman, a private practice attorney who has litigated constitutional claims, election law matters and commercial claims, was named director.

Sydney Hayes, a former lawyer at Husch Blackwell in Omaha who has also worked on constitutional issues and business disputes, will serve as assistant director.

Gutman, in a meeting with reporters earlier this week, said the clinic will operate as a law firm and hopes to serve a wide variety of clients facing an array of First Amendment issues in the state.

"We will defend the First Amendment rights of our clients while at the same time educating students on the intricacies of First Amendment law," he said. "To do that, we intend for our cases to span the ideological spectrum."

Ultimately, Gutman said he hopes to build a "deep bench" of attorneys that are well-versed in First Amendment case law that can serve Nebraskans.

It will also help journalists and news organizations navigate public records and open government issues, he said.

The First Amendment Clinic will be the ninth launched by the College of Law. Other clinics are: the Children's Justice Clinic, Civil Clinic, Criminal Clinic, Debtor's Defense Clinic, Estate Planning Clinic, Housing Justice Clinic, Immigration Clinic and the Weibling Entrepreneurship Clinic.

The Stanton Foundation, which provided the funding for the new First Amendment Clinic, was created by Frank Stanton, a longtime president at CBS News.

The foundation has supported similar legal clinics at Arizona State University, Southern Methodist University, Tulane University, Vanderbilt University, the University of Georgia, Duke University and others.

Top Journal Star photos for August 2023
As in past years, COVID-19 cases are on the rise now that school has resumed.

Lancaster County reported 163 official cases for the week that ended Saturday. That's more than double the previous week and more than four times higher than at the start of the month.

While the official number of cases is lower than at this time last year, the actual number may be higher because many people are testing at home or not testing at all.

For the corresponding week last year, the Lincoln-Lancaster County Health Department recorded nearly 3,100 COVID-19 tests. Last week, it only recorded 576.

More than one in four of those tests came back positive, and the 26% test positivity rate recorded last week was the third-highest weekly rate recorded during the pandemic, topped only by two weeks in January 2022.

Wastewater analysis also has shown a steady rise in viral particles detected.

On June 17, levels of COVID-19 in wastewater hit a pandemic low of 35,600 virus particles per liter of wastewater. Last week, that number had risen to 412,900.

That means both case numbers and wastewater levels are back to where they were in April.

We know COVID-19 remains a real risk for many people, and the shift were seeing in our local situation is concerning, Health Director Pat Lopez said in a news release. Were working with the long-term care facilities to reduce transmission. Were also in communication with our hospital partners as we determine how the increase in COVID activity may further impact the community.

Health officials say the increase in local cases highlights the importance of staying current on COVID-19 vaccines to help maintain protection against severe illness, especially for people who are 65 or older or have a weakened immune system.

It seems likely that the rise in cases is at least partly tied to local schools opening. Lincoln Public Schools students returned Aug. 14 and 15 and the University of Nebraska-Lincoln began classes Aug. 21.

But neither of them track cases among students anymore.

LPS said that after the federal COVID-19 Public Health Emergency declaration ended in May, it followed the guidance of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Health Department and folded its COVID-19 protocols and responses into existing structures and programs for communicable diseases.

"Therefore, LPS is no longer collecting reports of COVID-19 positive results or contact tracing," LPS spokeswoman Mindy Burbach said in an email.

LPS' absence report shows just more than 0.5% of students are out right now, with only one individual school with a rate higher than 2%.

The end of the federal public health emergency also spurred the state Department of Health and Human Services to stop the public reporting of wastewater sampling data, a decision that has been criticized by health experts.

Earlier this month, the Nebraska Infectious Disease Society sent a letter to the department and to Gov. Jim Pillen's office urging them to reactivate the public dashboard for wastewater tracking.

"Wastewater surveillance enables health care systems across the state to predict changes in demand for testing, hospital utilization, and workforce illness, providing more time to mobilize resources in preparation for higher case numbers," the letter said. "Wastewater surveillance is now our only reliable window into disease activity across the state and the only early indicator we have that will help with personal and health care system planning."

The good news is that the increase in cases has not yet led to significant increases in hospitalizations or deaths.

Lancaster County has not recorded a COVID-related death since May, and fewer than 100 people have died from the disease statewide since the beginning of June.

Photos: A lookback at the scene in Lincoln with much of city shut down for COVID pandemic Finals week Co-teaching City Council distancing Gameday empty Saturday Thank you Bryan West No fans allowed Husker cutouts Arena cleaning Volleyball social distancing Skeleton signs Boo at the Zoo Football Saturday YMCA closed Downtown mask art Marching band competition Outdoor seating East Campus proposed budget cuts Flu shots Coronavirus Bible Anti-mask rally No Football Saturday DMV lines UNL in-person class Iguana's Pub Farmers Market influencers Remote learning Weeping Water vs. Fillmore Central/Exeter-Milligan City Council First day of middle school Ukulele Class First day of school Pius X volleyball practice Madsen's House of Flowers delivery City Council BLM protest LPS Protest Beach Boys Rally and hearing Lancaster County Super Fair LPS board meeting Meatpacking workers rally Legislature Lincoln Northeast graduation Gov. Ricketts address Legislature Mask Legislature resumes Girls basketball Masked Archie the Mammoth First Jury Trial in Four Months Lincoln Community Playhouse The Kindler Hotel Garth Brooks Drive-In Concert Naturalization ceremony Urban Air Adventure Park Juneteenth Gere Branch Library Music on the Move Pool Reopenings Judiciary Committee Bars Opening in Lincoln LPS Teachers Retirement Holmes Lake Manor Horse Visit Lancaster County Courthouse Campgrounds Church Social Distancing Children of Smithfield Farmers Market Parkview Christian Teacher Appreciation Day Lincoln reopening Mother's Day Lincoln Christian 2020 Seniors Test Nebraska site Selfie wall Drive-Thru Career Fair Center for People in Need food distribution Marathon void Drive-through parade Masks For Truckers Hero Signs BikeLNK disinfecting Teacher and Staff Parade 91-year-old released Food Bank Thank you Virtual City Council Good Friday Music Masks on a walk Watch: A timelapse of the mural at Saro Cider Heroes sign Watch: Hand sanitizer rolls off Innovation Campus assembly line No fun here Inverse Parade Haymarket Empty downtown Tower Square sign Billboard Church services WATCH: Celebrating a birthday with a parade DoorDash StarTran Ridership Simpsons in the windows Drive-thru COVID-19 testing UNL Beekeeping virtual class Lincoln Lutheran Online Teaching Bourbon Theatre Social Distancing Blue for public health Protecting parents Basketball without fans Thanksgiving to go Basketball masks Food donation Sports cleaning Socially distant Santa Christmas tree demand Zoo Lights Clothing drive COVID-19 vaccine Recall Snowplow Santa Christmas Star Santa visit Pandemic Newspaper Basketball fans reduced Outdoor fun COVID Vaccine Basketball masks Trump Rally Mike Hilgers at Legislature's First Day Zoo Bar membership Eviction New high school Ice fishing Danny's closes Expos resume Swim meet Vaccination event Winter bicycling Legislative hearing Biking in snow Snowshoeing
Cindy made history. When it tuned into a tropical storm on June 22, 2023 became the first year on record where two named storms (tropical storm or hurricane) developed in the main development region of the Atlantic Ocean in the month of June.

The main development region is an area from the Lesser Antilles east to the west coast of Africa, typically between 10 and 25 degrees north latitude.
AURORA  Ground was broken earlier this month for a $20 million plant that will be built on the south side of Aurora, along Nebraska 14 and not far from Interstate 80.

The Specialty Ag Formulations production facility, which will total 100,000 square feet, is a joint venture between a company called Brandt and Frenchman Valley Co-op, which is based in Imperial.

The plant will produce agricultural nutrition products, mostly foliar micronutrients that are applied over the top of cops, said Bill Engel, Brandts executive vice president. The product is primarily used on row crops, such as corn and soybeans, but also specialized crops, including fruit and vegetables.

The Aurora plant will give Brandt better access to the Great Plains, said Rick Brandt, the companys president and CEO.

Brandt, headquartered in Tampa, Florida, does business in 49 states and more than 80 countries.

From Aurora, Brandts products will be distributed to about six states, said Rod Schroeder, one of the speakers at the groundbreaking. He described the Aurora location as being in the western corn belt.

Two years ago, Brandt opened a state-of-the-art production plant in Brazil. Rick Brandt has been assured the Aurora plant will be even better.

The company has facilities in Avon Park, Florida; Pleasant Plains, Illinois; Logan, Utah; and two California cities  Fresno and Visalia.

Brandt was formed in 1953 by Ricks father, G.B., and Ricks aunt, Evelyn, who turned 100 on Aug. 25.

G.B., who passed away in 2020, would have loved to see the Aurora plant, Rick said.

He always enjoyed getting a plant tour, especially in his later years, whenever he got the chance, Rick said.

Referring to Aurora, Kelsey Bergen said opportunity grows here. She is the executive director of the Aurora Development Corp.

Schroeder, a former Aurora resident, introduced the Brandt company to Aurora.

He told the Aurora Development Corp. that Brandt is a longtime family business that is held in high esteem. He then told Brandt executives Aurora is a great community in which to do business.

You come here and you will be successful, Schroeder told the Brandt people. All the infrastructure is here. People are great. And because of that, this is going to be a win-win.

Schroeder then got out of the way, and let the deal come together.

John Bender of Frenchman Valley thanked Schroeder, who now lives in Ashland, for bringing the parties together. He also thanked the Aurora Development Corp. for a job well done.

When we came up here and did our tour, I didnt know if we were looking at sites or if they were trying to sell me a timeshare. But it was well done, Kelsey. And were here, Bender told Bergen.

Bender became familiar with the Brandts about 10 years ago. They were a competitor of mine, said Bender, who says hes competitive himself. I dont like competitors. But I did like Brandt. They were a tough competitor because they were honest.

Gov. Jim Pillen attended the groundbreaking. Another speaker was Sen. Loren Lippincott.

The quarter section of land has been annexed into the city of Aurora. A soybean field stands not far from the groundbreaking site.

Aurora leaders conducted a serious recruitment of the project partners, showing them the value of our site, Mayor Marlin Seeman said in an interview.

Once they began to show an interest, all of the partners in our community began to focus on how to bring this soybean field to life as a building site, Seeman said.

Aurora Development Corp. and the city played a major role. The county and the school district are also cheerleaders when a large project is a possibility, Seeman said.

Seeman believes the operation will grow in the future and we believe they will be a partner with the ag industry thats already here.

The plant will begin with 15 employees. The number will gradually increase to between 40 and 50, Engel said.

Auroras current population is 4,678.

Rick Brandt said he was excited to see the project come together and he promised that well be a good neighbor.

Brandt is also looking forward to deepening our relationship with Frenchman Valley, he said.

Jim Ediger, president of the Aurora Development Corp., said it took a lot of people to bring the project to Aurora. Some good connections were made and we always thought we had a great piece of property here.

The area is full of farmers, so it makes sense for Specialty Ag Formulations to manufacture its products in Hamilton County, Ediger said.

Top Journal Star photos for August 2023
A former Elkhorn South High School band director was sentenced to three years in prison Friday for felony child abuse involving one of her students.

Michelle Bluford, 57, pleaded no contest to the child abuse charge last month in exchange for prosecutors dropping two misdemeanor sexual assault charges. Bluford had been accused of grooming and having an inappropriate relationship with the female student.

Douglas County District Court Judge Horacio Wheelock handed down Blufords sentence after he agreed with prosecutor Amy Jacobsens argument that Bluford knew the relationship with the student, who has since graduated, was wrong.

Court documents stated that the inappropriate relationship, which began when the student was a junior in high school, lasted about two years. The relationship intensified after the student graduated. The student ended the relationship and requested that Bluford not contact her.

Incidents outlined in court documents include Bluford cuddling the student, requesting the student call her mom and having framed pictures of her and the student together around her apartment. On one occasion after the student graduated, Bluford reportedly invited her to her apartment and kissed her on the lips.

The student testified in court that when her classmates would have lunch, Bluford would regularly lead her to private areas of the school.

Those incidents and others, as well as carefully worded private correspondence between Bluford and the student, showed Bluford knew exactly what she was doing, Jacobsen said.

She knew she was going too far. She was calculating the whole thing, Jacobsen said.

To this day, the student said, her life remains affected by Bluford. She added Bluford invaded my privacy in every way.

Theres nothing I want more than this nightmare to be over, the student said.

Blufords attorney, Joseph Howard, said Bluford has acknowledged that what she did was wrong. But he said probation rather than prison would be the more appropriate punishment. He said that would offer Bluford community support and more rehabilitation resources.

Howard noted that Bluford, who had taught for 32 years, will never teach again as she has surrendered her teaching license. He also noted Bluford did not have a prior criminal record.

Shes the type of person probation was designed for, Howard said. He also pointed to the multiple letters submitted to the court in support of Bluford, who was affectionately called Dr. B.

Since Bluford entered her no-contest plea last month, Wheelock said he has thought about the case every day. While he considered probation for weeks, he said Blufords case was far worse than the penalty.

In addition to sentencing Bluford to three years in prison, Wheelock also ordered her to serve 18 months in post-release supervision. He ordered Bluford to have no contact with the student, the students family and children.

With two days of time served credited to her, Bluford will be eligible to be released from prison in 1 years under state law.

Top Journal Star photos for August 2023
An inmate serving a life sentence for two counts of first-degree murder died Tuesday at the Nebraska prison in Tecumseh.

Decabooter Williams, 71, formerly of Omaha, began serving his sentence in June 2004. A spokeswoman for the Nebraska Department of Corrections said a cause of death has not been determined but Williams was being treated for a medical condition.

Williams was found guilty in Douglas County District Court for the deaths of Victoria Burgess, 52, and LaTisha Tolbert, 28, of Omaha. Prosecutors said Williams became enraged when Burgess accused him of stealing $200 from her.

Williams tried to borrow a gun from a neighbor. He then bought some gas, confronted Burgess and set her and her house ablaze, resulting in the deaths of the two women.

Prosecutors did not seek the death penalty, in part because relatives of Burgess and Tolbert did not want it.

Under state law, a grand jury conducts an investigation whenever someone dies while in custody of law enforcement.

Most dangerous cities in Nebraska Dangerous Cities in Nebraska 6. South Sioux City 5. Scottsbluff 4. North Platte 3. Lincoln 2. Grand Island 1. Omaha A note about the numbers
Killeen, TX (76540)

Today

Cloudy. Periods of rain this morning. High 47F. Winds N at 15 to 25 mph. Chance of rain 90%. Higher wind gusts possible..

Tonight

Some clouds. Low 36F. Winds N at 10 to 15 mph.
1. Yes. If KHA cant continue to run it, the city should step in. Its a necessary asset to the area.

2. Yes. The city already uses it as a warming and cooling center. It would be a smart move.

3. No. It may be in the citys interest to help subsidize insurance for the center, but nothing more.

4. No. The city doesnt need the added burden of staffing and insuring the center. Its a bad idea.

5. Unsure. It may be seem like a good idea, but other options should be explored as well.

Vote

View Results
Nebraska Auditor Mike Foley has notified the Lincoln Airport Authority that he plans to audit the use of $3 million in federal COVID-19 stimulus funds on a failed airline.

In a letter to airport Executive Director David Haring dated Friday, Foley said his office had "received concerns regarding millions of dollars in funding" to Red Way Airlines.

Red Way earlier this week announced that it will cease operations at the end of the month after less than three months in business.

As part of a deal to start new service at the Lincoln Airport in June, Red Way received a revenue guarantee backed by $3 million in leftover American Rescue Plan Act funds  $1.5 million each from the county and city.

The money was meant to be used to supplement startup losses the airline incurred in its first months. However, former airport authority board member Nick Cusick, who resigned last month, told the Journal Star the airline had already used more than $2 million in its first two months of operation. It's not clear whether it will be entitled to any more money.

Foley, in his letter, said his office will be auditing all funding received by Red Way and all expenditures made by the Lincoln airport authority on behalf of or in relation to Red Way's Nebraska operations.

In a statement, John Olsson, chairman of the airport authority, said the airport already had been planning to do its own audit of the Red Way operations, and the board, "looks forward to cooperating with the State Auditor, as well as our community partners  the Lancaster County Board and the Lincoln City Council  to coordinate all efforts to ensure a transparent audit process moving forward.

Red Way was a creative solution the airport came up with after having trouble finding another airline to start service at its newly remodeled and expanded terminal.

The airline was technically providing charter service through Global Crossing Airlines, although to customers, it looked and operated like a regular commercial airline.

Service began in early June to seven cities, and though the airline seemed to be doing well, flying more than 13,000 total passengers in June and July, it was apparently bleeding money.

Red Way used more than $900,000 from the incentive fund in June, and Cusick told the Journal Star it withdrew even more than that in July.

What was left was deemed to be not enough to safely get them to the finish line, Cusick said, causing Red Way to make the decision to pull the plug.

In a Facebook post Wednesday, Red Way said it faced "insurmountable challenges as a small startup," and the "compounding of costs and lack of resources have made it impossible for us to sustain operations."

The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners issued a written statement on Wednesday, saying it is deeply disappointed and troubled at this unexpected and sudden turn of events.

The board said there are many unanswered questions regarding the Red Way project, (and it) looks forward to receiving a full accounting of this situation as the Lincoln Airport Authority charts a new path forward to serve our community.

Lincoln Mayor Leirion Gaylor Baird declined to comment on Wednesday.

Photos: First Red Way flight departs from Lincoln Airport
Five city residents have officially declared their candidacy to become the next mayor of Kenosha.

Each hopes to succeed Mayor John Antaramian, who announced earlier this year that he will not seek another term as leader of one of the states largest cities.

Declared candidates can begin circulating nominating papers Dec. 1, and a minimum of 200 signatures is required, although candidates typically collect far more.

Eligible city residents have until 5 p.m. on Jan. 2, 2024 to formally submit to the city their declarations of candidacy, nominating papers and campaign registration statements to the city clerk for the 2024 spring election. If required, a primary will be held Feb. 20, 2024. The spring election will be held April 2, 2024.

Whoever wins the race will serve through April 17, 2028 as the citys 51st mayor.

David Bogdala, a longtime Kenosha alderman, was the first to officially announce his candidacy in June. Bogdala has represented the citys 17th district since 2008.

Bogdala, who currently serves as a senior program manager at Abbott Laboratories specializing in crisis management and business continuity, told the Kenosha News he is running because he has the leadership experience and integrity to lead the city.

I think thats why I love local politics so much is because it really is nonpartisan. Nobody cares what party youre affiliated to. They want their garbage picked up, they want the police and fire to arrive when they call and the streets plowed. Thats what they want. They dont care what your party affiliation is and thats how Ive conducted myself these past 15 years and how I hope to continue if fortunate to be elected mayor, Bogdala said.

Lydia Spottswood, a longtime Kenosha civic leader and public servant, was the second to announce her candidacy in July.

Spottswood served the public in various roles over the decades and was appointed by Antaramian to various committees over his last two terms. She currently serves on the Plan Commission, Redevelopment Authority and Community Development Block Grant Committee, among others.

A graduate of the Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University and University of Virginia, Spottswood worked as a nurse after graduation and became the head nurse in the Department of Surgery at the University of Virginia Hospital.

Spottswood, who moved to Kenosha in the 1980s with husband Paul, has advised numerous nonprofit boards and served as chair of the Kenosha Community Health Center Development Task Force and was the founding executive director of the Kenosha Community Health Center.

I would say Ive got considerable experience in both the public and private sectors, Spottswood told the Kenosha News.

The work youre doing at City Hall has much less of a partisan kind of feeling I think than you see at the state or national level. The focus is on addressing concerns about property, property management and partnerships in our city that are going to make a difference to the long-term goal, Spottswood said.

Spottswood could become the citys first female mayor.

Koerri Elijah, a popular local social media content creator, was the third to announce his candidacy for mayor in mid-July.

Elijah, a Kenosha native and 2007 Reuther Central High School graduate whose full name is Koerri Elijah Washington, requested to appear on ballots as Koerri Elijah.

Elijah gained an online following for livestreaming from his skateboard the violence and destruction that occurred in Kenosha after the police shooting of Jacob Blake in August 2020.

In the months and years following the unrest Elijah maintained his presence on social media by streaming community events and interviewing local leaders.

When it comes down to getting stuff done in the city people just want someone who cares about everyone, Elijah told the Kenosha News.

Elijah, who has attended classes at the University of Wisconsin-Parkside and Gateway Technical College, said he believes its time for change in Kenosha. Elijah, who has worked in local restaurants and retail stores, said he brings a different set of experiences to the race for mayor.

For too long its been business as usual at the expense of the citizens quality of life. Theres no time better than now for critical, creative, and tech savvy thinking, Elijah said in his campaign announcement.

Elijah could become the citys first Black mayor.

The latest two candidates to announce are Andreas Meyer and Randall Delaney, who both filed this month.

Meyer told the Kenosha News that hes been an activist in Kenosha for about a decade and graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Parkside with a degree anthropology in 2016.

Meyer told the Kenosha News he would focus on ending poverty, highlight civil rights and work to guarantee housing for all Kenoshans.

As an anthropologist who graduated from UW-Parkside, I have the skills and background needed to fix our community and guarantee equality, human rights, and basic needs for all, Meyer said in a statement to the Kenosha News. A community can only thrive when all members are guaranteed their basic needs.

Delaney, who was born and raised in Kenosha, told the Kenosha News he is running because the people in this town desperately need help.

Delaney said he is still working on his platform and willing to listen to the concerns of city residents.

Celebrity Birthdays: Aug. 29 Carla Gugino Charlotte Ritchie Elliot Gould Jacob Lew Jennifer Landon Kate Simses Kyle Cook Lea Michele Liam Payne Neil Gorsuch Nicole Gale Anderson Noah Syndergaard
BRISTOL  Kenosha Countys Veterans Services director has quit under duress following an eight-year career.

Aloysius Ali Nelson tendered his resignation via his attorney, according a letter dated Aug. 13 to the county and obtained by the Kenosha News through open records request. While the former directors exact reasons for leaving are unclear, it comes following an incident in July which he was alleged to have confronted a man in Silver Lake Park. The Kenosha News has also filed an open records request with the Kenosha County Sheriffs Department for information on the incident.

Mr. Nelson submitted his letter of resignation on August 13 after having been on administrative leave since July 19. Services to veterans in the community have continued uninterrupted, with the office under the oversight of Assistant Director Jennifer Blasi, Kenosha County Executive Samantha Kerkman said in a prepared statement.

William Sulton, Nelsons attorney said Tuesday he did not have any comment on his clients resignation. However, in a letter of resignation submitted by Sulton to Clara Tappa, the countys human resources director, Sulton indicates Nelsons resignation was made under duress, but did not waive any claims or causes of action against the county, without limitation to wrongful termination, and due process.

Mr. Nelson resigns solely to mitigate the anticipated damages and other losses to the county, Sulton said.

County administration and County Board supervisors, were advised regarding the potential for litigation in the matter, according to discussions before the Public Works and Facilities Committee Monday night.

The incident was aired as the committee called on parks administration to address the issue of homelessness and what its staff has done to assist homeless individuals they encounter in county parks, including referring them to non-profit organizations and other agencies with resources to serve them.

We actually went out of our way to try other avenues  through the Great Lakes Naval Base (in Illinois), through the Capt. James Lovell VA (federal health care center) and theres other people that are very equipped to deal with homeless veterans within our community, said Parks Director Matt Collins. And, they have also made multiple attempts to try to get this individual this help and services.

Collins said, however, that at the end of the day, its going to have to be upon them to take advantage of those opportunities.

Supervisor Brian Thomas pressed Collins on the details over what transpired prior to the incident, which was apparently captured on video, saying that it sounded as though Nelson had been at the park previously to speak with the man. Collins said that Nelson had been there, but that he did not have specific dates. According to Collins, the former veterans services director had been at the park to speak with the individual within the week prior to the confrontation. Collins said a constituent had notified county officials about the man who was reportedly living in the park.

Supervisor Laura Belsky cautioned Thomas and the committee that they not further discuss the issue as the county could have a legal situation on its hands because Nelson had hired an attorney and the incident could be subject to future litigation.

I think we should be very cautious on the details of what transpired so that we protect the county (in the event litigation occurs), she said.

I guess I would like to know more of that story because it was such a volatile moment for all three individuals that were there, and probably many more, Thomas said, asking for more background, including whether the individual may be harassing people.

Belsky again interjected.

I want to know the story, too, said Belsky. But because there is a potential legal case here, I think we should be very cautious on what we ask and what we respond to.

Thomas said, however, that what he was asking is already in the public domain and that he thought it would be helpful to know what happened prior to the incident and how county staff had interacted with the individual in the park. Collins, did not answer further questions, indicating that they needed to be addressed by the countys Corporation Counsel.

I dont think this kind of issue is going to go away in the future  hopefully we learn something from it, as well, Thomas said. It sounds like what youre doing is excellent, though.

Ali speaking at park dedication.JPG Dressed in Navy uniform, Kenosha County Veterans Services Director Ali Nelson speaks at the October 2021 dedication of the Kenosha County Vete

Nelson began his tenure as veterans services director with the county in 2015, when he was hired to replace Derrell Greene, who had retired. Nelson had previously served in a similar capacity for four years for Racine County.

He served in the U.S. Navy for 28 years before retiring as a command master chief in 2010. While with the Navy, he served largely in logistics and administrative roles, including during the first gulf war. His deployments included to the Arabian Gulf, Western Pacific, North Atlantic, the Mediterranean, Indian Ocean and the Caribbean. Overseas assignments included naval communications stationing in Keflavik, Iceland and forward deployment in Yokosuka, Japan.

A shore assignment at Great Lakes Naval Station in North Chicago later brought him and his wife to Kenosha where they settled upon his retirement. Last October, Nelson was elected president of the County Veterans Services Officers of Wisconsin, a statewide organization that advocates for military veterans and their families.

Images of honors for local veterans ANNUAL VETERANS HOMELESS STAND DOWN ANNUAL VETERANS HOMELESS STAND DOWN ANNUAL VETERANS HOMELESS STAND DOWN ANNUAL VETERANS HOMELESS STAND DOWN ANNUAL VETERANS HOMELESS STAND DOWN ANNUAL VETERANS HOMELESS STAND DOWN ANNUAL VETERANS HOMELESS STAND DOWN ANNUAL VETERANS HOMELESS STAND DOWN
MADISON  The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources reminds the public to beat the crowds at state park properties this Labor Day weekend by purchasing their 2023 annual vehicle admission stickers online.

With 50 parks, 15 forests, 44 trails, 84,000 miles of rivers and streams, 15,000 lakes and hundreds of miles of Lake Michigan and Mississippi River shoreline, the state offers outdoor resources to explore from north to south.

The sticker is required on all motor vehicles stopping in state recreation areas. The annual rate for most state residents is $28.

Visitors must display an annual sticker or daily pass to the vehicle as instructed or show proof of purchase upon entrance. Once you purchase your annual sticker online, you can use your email confirmation as proof of purchase.

Visitors may print the email receipt and place it on the drivers side dashboard.

Popular parks may reach lot capacity this weekend due to demand. If a spot is not available, do not park on roadways.

Consider these parking suggestions:

Consider carpooling with friends or family.

Pack all the food and drinks needed for the trip. Leaving a park property and returning may make parking difficult to find.

If camping, consider leaving your vehicle at the campsite.

View current property information and be aware of temporary closures by visiting our state property condition notices page.

Find a state park property to explore by going to the DNRs website. The Find A Park feature on the website allows you to search activity or location. The Hidden Gems of Wisconsin State Park Properties map offers some of the lesser-known state parks, forests, trails and recreation areas to visit.
Moriah Murray of Tomah been named to the University of Wisconsin-Platteville Deans List. To qualify for the Deans List, students must achieve a grade-point average of at least 3.75. Murray is a criminal justice major.

Clinton Wood of Tomah has graduated Cum Laude Meritum from Upper Iowa University. Wood received a bachelor of arts degree in graphic design.

Jesse Arity of Tomah earned a degree from the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater. He graduated with a bachelor of business administration-finance.

Neil Baumgarten of Tomah has earned semester honors at the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay. Honors are given to students earning 3.74 to 3.50 grade point averages.

Lucy Gordon of Tomah has been named to the Deans List at St. Olaf College in Northfield, Minnesota. The deans list recognizes students with a semester grade point average of 3.75 or higher.

Andrew Cashman Tomah has graduated with a doctor of chiropractic degree from Palmer College of Chiropractics main campus in Davenport, Iowa.

The following local students have graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Madison:

KendallErica Murray, bachelor of arts, school of nursing.

TomahPeter Brey, bachelor of arts, communication arts; Anthony Davenport, bachelor of arts, entomology; Cody Huff, bachelor of science, gender and womens studies; Lindsey Walker, master of arts, library and information studies.
Winona philanthropists Will and Shirley Oberton have donated over $130,000 to build a mountain bike skills park at Bluffside Park.

The couple is active in outdoor recreation and was inspired to donate the bike park to Winona after seeing their grandkids enjoy a similar mountain bike park while visiting Cable, Wisconsin.

We see the enjoyment it brings them, and its good, healthy activity, said Will, the longtime president and CEO of Fastenal. A few bumps and bruises, but we like to see kids outside.

The $135,000 skills park will be located west of Holzinger Lodge at West Lake Boulevard in Winona and will offer three sections of features.

One section will be a tot track for beginning riders as they become accustomed to riding off-road on bumpy dirt surfaces. Itll have balance bike-friendly features, varying trail textures, small wooden features and long, low dirt rollers.

The next two sections will have separate beginner and intermediate hubs that consist of two lines  a jump line with 6-8 tabletop-style jumps and 3-5 drops of varying size with the smallest at the top and the largest near the bottom.

The beginner and intermediate hubs will have rollers, berms and jumps built in a flow trail style with up and overs built on each course to avoid user conflict.

Shirley said philanthropic work has always been important to both of them, and they were inspired by mentors like Bob Kierlin and Mary Burrichter, who founded Winonas Minnesota Marine Art Museum and are currently building Masterpiece Hall.

There are people who give a tremendous amount to the community, Shirley said. We know that were very fortunate, and so that inspired us to always try to find ways to give back to the community.

The Winona City Council accepted the donation last week. Construction on the tot track will start this fall, putting Winona on the map of mountain bike skills parks in the area with Upper Hixon Forest Pump Track in La Crosse and the Trempealeau Bike Park.

Construction of the beginner and intermediate hubs in Winona is scheduled to be between May and June 2024 with a park opening scheduled for July 14.

After moving to Winona about 40 years ago, the Obertons said theyve fallen in love with the city, its beauty and community.

We want to help make Winona a place where people want to raise their families, Will said.

Winona Director of Recreation Facilities Patrick Menton said the technical grade of the soon to be constructed park makes it an ideal location while not taking over too much of the existing bluffs trail system.

This bicycle skills course is essentially a playground for bikes and is truly for all ages, Menton said. When you look at the whole master plan of the Bluffs Traverse, its like the size of a thumbprint on that. So its a small area, but its finely tuned and with this donation were going to put out an incredible bicycle playground for people.

Mayor Scott Sherman said the donation gives him the warm fuzzies.

This is a prime example of philanthropy that is impacting our outdoor recreation infrastructure. I know theres been a lot of work behind this for the past year or so, Sherman said. I cant wait to see this come to fruition.
Scooters Coffee celebrated its grand opening of its new location in Winona on Friday.

The chain is well-known across the nation with locations in 29 states, including two drive-thrus nearby in Onalaska and Holmen.

The Winona community gave the drive-thru business a warm welcome Friday, as employees stayed busy with serving a constant flow of customers.

Franchise owner Brett Cipperley said he has enjoyed the opportunity to connect with Winona residents.

Cipperley is new to the area, as he moved to Winona about a month and a half ago from Nebraska to open the new Scooters location, which has provided about 32 new jobs.

Cipperley, who had only traveled through Winona a few times before on the way to Wisconsin, said he wanted to open a Scooters Coffee because, I havent had a better coffee in my life, and I figured I wanted to be a part of the whole Scooters idea.

Scotter's Coffee Hours: 5:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily Address: 1800 W. Service Drive, Winona Information: 507-474-0543, www.scooterscoffee.com

He originally had a general interest in opening a Scooters somewhere, but the corporation proposed opening one in Winona.

He thought it was a great opportunity to fill the then-vacant space at 1800 W. Service Drive.

He said the communitys reaction so far to the business has been overwhelmingly amazing.

I havent had any negative reactions from the community. Everybodys been so wonderful, Cipperley said.

He said he has heard great reviews so far about the business drinks, including the new drinks for kids that are offered.

The menu isnt just full of beverages, though, as people can also grab a bite to eat, including pastries and other breakfast items.

Cipperley believes the coffee shop will stand out in Winona, which is already home to many other coffee spots throughout the city, because of the brands promise of amazing people serving amazing drinks amazingly fast.
Child care facilities are going to make some tough decisions in the coming months as state funding to support providers will run out at the end of the year.

Some fear they will have to close their doors or reduce staff, while others expect to raise rates to make up for the funding loss, said Audra Weiser, early care and education director at the Parenting Place in La Crosse.

The only regulated child care facility in Cashton closed at the end of last week because of budget gaps.

In June, the states Republican majority voted to defund Child Care Counts, a Wisconsin subsidy program for providers.

Child Care Counts distributed hundreds of millions of dollars in federal support to thousands of child care providers across the state during the COVID-19 pandemic. The money helped subsidize provider wages and maintain costs for parents.

In his budget, Gov. Tony Evers proposed spending $360 million to make Child Care Counts permanent. Since the funding was not approved, program dollars have shrunk and will expire entirely by the end of the year.

Evers called a special session for Sept. 20 to address child care funding as well as workforce shortages.

Since 2020, more than 100 child care providers in La Crosse County received a total of $15.9 million in support payments from the state.

The state subsidy gave child care facilities the ability to increase wages for staff to stay in business and not lose staff to higher paying jobs.

Now that theyve increased those wages to a point that they can retain some of the workforce, weve slowed the mass exodus from the field down a bit, Weiser said.

(Providers) have reduced costs just about everywhere else that they can; still the only area that they would have any control over would be the wages, but they know they cant (lower wages) because folks will not stay in the field.

Rate increases

To keep child care facilities running and adequately staffed, some providers will need to raise their rates nearly 25% to make up for the loss of state funding, Weiser said.

I can confidently say that (rates are) going to be a bit higher than that when we get our current numbers in and then it will go up again in 2024, Weiser said.

Average rates for infant care in La Crosse County were about $213 per week in 2021, according to data from the Parenting Place.

The national guideline for what is considered affordable child care for families is about 7% of their income.

If we look at that $213 a week, a family would need to be earning in the neighborhood of $3,000 a week in order to have that fit within the 7% guideline, Weiser said, which would be an annual household income of $144,000. When you think of young families and what wages are, many are not earning that in Wisconsin.

Two-parent households in Wisconsin typically spend about 17% of their income on childcare, whereas single family households spend about 35% of their income, according to Child Care Aware.

Its a really tough decision for (providers) because they know what a burden childcare is on families, but if theyre going to stay in business, theyre going to have to raise their rates, Weiser said.

Limited availability

Access to child care is the bigger issue, Weiser said. Parents face long wait lists of up to two years for infant care, with nearly 1,300 children on waiting lists last year.

We definitely encourage families to call and start getting on waiting lists the minute they find out that theyre expecting, Weiser said. You might want to tell your family but youll probably want to call child care first.

About 75%, or 4,240, of children younger than 5 in the county will need some type of outsourced child care, Weiser said the other 25% find care from a stay-at-home parent, relative or other method.

Regulated child care capacity in the county is only 2,651, and not all the spots can be utilized because providers dont have enough staff to fill to capacity. Weiser said there were 372 open spots last year due to lack of staff.

This leaves a gap of about 1,961 children who will not be able to secure a spot in a regulated child care facility.

For families who arent able to secure a spot, Weiser said some parents will choose not to re-enter the workforce, others look at individualized care such as nannies or find some form of unregulated child care.

I think choices are being made to trust children at home for limited amounts of time at younger and younger ages, Weiser said. We hear a lot about older siblings being responsible for their younger siblings. Parents arranging shifts so that they work opposite one another.
JACKSONVILLE, Fla.  A campus security officer tipped off by observant students likely stopped the killer who shot and killed three people at a nearby Dollar General Store from carrying out his racist attack at Edward Waters University, the president of the historically Black institution said Monday.

Students reported seeing a young white man pull into a campus library parking lot in Jacksonville, Florida, and begin putting on tactical gear Saturday, Edward Waters University President Zachary Faison Jr. said. They immediately flagged down a security officer who was on patrol to tell them what they saw.

The officer approached the car on foot when the driver  who would later be identified as the shooter at the store  sped off, hitting a curb and narrowly avoiding a brick column, Faison said. The campus officer, who the campus president called a hero, then called the Jacksonville Sheriff's Office and shared the description of the vehicle.

Minutes later, the gunman made his way to a Dollar General Store down the road and killed Angela Michelle Carr, 52, an Uber driver who was shot in her car; store employee A.J. Laguerre, 19, who was shot as he tried to flee; and customer Jerrald Gallion, 29, who was shot as he entered the store in the predominantly Black neighborhood.

"It's not just on a whim that he chose to come to Florida's first historically Black college or university," said Faison, who expressed condolences to the families of the victims and confirmed none were part of the university.

The campus officer, Lt. Antonio Bailey, said he relied on his training when he responded to the students' call saw the man in his vehicle wearing a tactical vest, gloves and a hat covering his head. He said he he did not see a weapon at that time.

"I'm no hero," Bailey said. "If anything, it's the students who alerted me so I could do my job."

President Joe Biden called Monday  the 60th anniversary of the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr.'s March on Washington  for action to end the type of "hate-fueled violence" that authorities said motivated the Jacksonville shooting.

Faison requested help from the president to secure his campus as students expressed concerns for their safety. Faison said the director for the Florida Department of Law Enforcement and members of the school will conduct a risk assessment before they identify any modifications they may want to make on the campus.

Jacksonville Sheriff T.K. Waters said Monday that investigators believe the shooter specifically targeted the store and that he does not believe Edward Waters University was the intended location for the rampage. The sheriff declined to specify what reason the shooter may have had for targeting the store.

Waters said the man did not speak as he entered the store, but directed some shoppers  both Black and white people  to leave the building. He then began shooting.

"I don't understand his rhyme or reason for why he did what he did and the way that he did it," Waters said. "I know that for a fact he was targeting Black people."

Civil rights attorney Ben Crump stood with the family of Gallion  holding the man's 4-year-old daughter, Je Asia, on his hip  at a press conference Monday and said he was also representing the Carr family.

"How do you explain to her where her father is? This is what this is about," Crump said as Je Asia watched the audience.

Crump called for additional gun reform in the wake of the shooting, saying those who defend and champion gun rights have blood on their hands.

"How many more before the leaders will step up and help solve these issues, versus looking the other way?" Crump said.

Florida Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis was loudly booed Sunday as he spoke at a vigil in Jacksonville for the victims. Desantis, who is running for against Donald Trump and others for the GOP nomination for president, has loosened gun laws in his state and antagonized civil rights leaders by deriding "wokeness."

Authorities identified the shooter as Ryan Palmeter, 21, who they said was armed and ready to carry out an attack on Black people. Waters said a racist journal Palmeter's father found in his room was "the diary of a madman."
A committee hearing on the future of Meagan Wolfes job as head of the Wisconsin Elections Commission was largely spent revisiting old grievances held by some Republicans over the states nearly 3-year-old presidential election.

The Senate Committee on Shared Revenue, Elections and Consumer Protection met Tuesday to discuss a resolution ultimately aimed at unseating Wolfe, who has led the commission since 2018. Wolfe did not testify at the meeting, which was largely attended by some of her biggest critics, including several who have taken aim at the bipartisan commission and its administrator since the 2020 election.

The meeting was held as Senate Republicans move closer to removing Wolfe from her role as Wisconsins top election official  despite arguments that such a vote is not legally before the Legislature.

Both Democratic Attorney General Josh Kaul and the Legislatures attorneys have said there is no legal nomination for the committee to consider.

Thats really a separate discussion. This was a public hearing about reappointing Meagan Wolfe, committee chair Sen. Dan Knodl, R-Germantown, said when asked about the legal questions raised about Wolfes nomination.

Knodl said he hasnt decided yet whether the committee will formally vote to send the resolution to the full Senate, where the Republican majority could remove Wolfe from office.

Not everything gets to an executive session, so I havent made that determination yet, he said, adding the matter could come before the full Senate as soon as mid-September.

Senate Resolution 3, adopted in June, declares that Wolfe has been nominated for reappointment by the bipartisan commission  despite the agency failing to secure the four votes traditionally needed for approval.

There is not a nomination before this committee, said Ann Jacobs, a Democratic member of the commission. There just isnt, and the law is very clear on that.

Recent actions

In June, the commissions three Republican members voted to reappoint Wolfe, while the agencys three Democratic members abstained from voting in an effort to prevent a majority vote that would send Wolfes reappointment to the GOP-controlled state Senate, where Republicans could reject the nomination and effectively oust Wolfe.

The next day, Senate Republicans adopted a resolution declaring Wolfe has been nominated for reappointment by the bipartisan commission  despite the agency failing to secure the four votes traditionally needed for approval. Senate GOP leaders argue the commissions three votes supporting her nomination, paired with three votes to abstain, constitutes a majority.

However, a memo prepared last week by Wisconsin Legislative Council attorneys Katie Bender-Olson and Peggy Hurley for Sen. Mark Spreitzer, D-Beloit, states that most Wisconsin Elections Commission actions, including the appointment of the agencys administrator, must be affirmed with at least four votes.

Based on the statutory text and conventions of statutory interpretation in Wisconsin, the best interpretation of state law is that appointment of a WEC administrator requires four votes of the commission, the memo states. This is because the provision relating directly to the appointment of an administrator refers to a majority of the members of the commission, and not to a majority of those voting, and because actions of the commission generally require a two-thirds vote.

While state law at times refers to members present and voting in some statutory provisions, that language is not included in a statute pertaining to an administrative appointment, the memo continues.

The Legislature chose not to use similar language for the appointment of an administrator, supporting the conclusion that appointment requires an affirmative vote by a majority of WEC members rather than a majority of members voting, the attorneys wrote.

Before Senate Republicans introduced the resolution on Wolfes nomination, Senate Majority Leader Devin LeMahieu, R-Oostburg, privately expressed doubts about whether the chamber could remove Wolfe if she wasnt first reappointed by the commission, according to an email the senator sent to a group of conservatives.

Last week, Kaul made a similar argument in a letter sent to Wisconsin Legislative Council director Anne Sappenfield, stating that the commissions deadlock vote in June means there is no WEC administrator appointment before the Senate.

Its likely the matter will ultimately be decided in court.

Its just unfortunate that we are going to wind up back in court for trying to exercise our authority, Sen. Romaine Quinn, R-Cameron, said.

Back to 2020

Tuesdays meeting kicked off with lawmakers revisiting the nonpartisan Legislative Audit Bureaus nearly 2-year-old report on the 2020 election. The audit, released in October 2021, was never intended to reexamine the results of the election, but it contained no evidence of widespread fraud.

It did, however, recommend the state elections commission create rules defining the use of ballot drop boxes in elections and define when clerks are allowed to fill in missing information on absentee ballot envelopes. Wolfe and commission members have said many of the proposed changes raised by the audit have been made.

Even so, several who spoke Tuesday continued to relitigate the presidential election and raise concerns about election malfeasance and fraud.

Those who spoke in opposition to Wolfes nomination included: Peter Bernegger, of New London, who last year was fined by the Wisconsin Elections Commission for filing what the agency called frivolous claims of voter fraud; Harry Wait, who was charged with election fraud and identity theft after requesting and receiving absentee ballots in the names of legislators and local officials last year; and former state Supreme Court Justice Michael Gableman, who was hired by Assembly Speaker Robin Vos, R-Rochester, to lead the now defunct taxpayer-funded review of the 2020 election.

While Gablemans review failed to find any evidence of widespread fraud in the 2020 election, he used his platform to foster doubt in the electoral process and recommended the Legislature take the legally impossible step of decertifying the results.

The record speaks for itself, and nothing speaks as highly as the fact that (Wolfe) didnt come here today to tell you about all the good work shes been doing, Gableman said Tuesday.

A warning

Others, including Common Cause Wisconsin Executive Director Jay Heck, defended Wolfes experience and integrity at the helm of the state elections commission, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The vast majority of Wisconsins voters and citizens can and will lose confidence and trust in our elections if you, their elected representatives, commit the monumental mistake of ousting Meagan Wolfe, Heck said.

Wolfe was appointed to her role by the commission in February 2018. She was unanimously confirmed by the Senate in May 2019.

A recount, court decisions and multiple reviews have affirmed that President Joe Biden defeated Trump in Wisconsin by almost 21,000 votes.

Elections 101: Video series explains how elections are carried out in Wisconsin The Wisconsin Elections Commission put together the following series of instructional videos and accompanying lesson plans for use in high school civics classes and the general public. Elections overview An overview of elections administration in Wisconsin. Voting Security Let's take a look at how we maintain security and integrity with all of our elections. Nuts and bolts The ins-and-outs of voter processes like registering to vote and requesting a ballot to vote absentee. A Day at the Polls See what it is like to go to the polls and vote.
The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) reminds the public to beat the crowds at state park properties this Labor Day weekend by purchasing their 2023 annual vehicle admission stickers online at yourpassnow.com/ParkPass/wi.

With 50 state parks, 15 state forests, 44 state trails, 84,000 miles of rivers and streams, 15,000 lakes and hundreds of miles of Lake Michigan and Mississippi River shoreline, Wisconsin has outdoor resources to explore from north to south.

A Wisconsin state park and forest vehicle admission sticker is required on all motor vehicles stopping in state parks, forests and recreation areas. Annual vehicle admission stickers offer admission to all state parks and forests for the calendar year. The annual admission sticker rate for most Wisconsin residents is $28. For more information on vehicle sticker rates, visit dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/parks/admission

Visitors must display an annual sticker or daily admission pass adhered to the vehicle as instructed or show proof of purchase upon entrance. Once you purchase your annual sticker online, you can use your email confirmation as proof of purchase and use it immediately.

If the sticker does not arrive in the mail in time, visitors may print the email receipt and place it on the drivers side dashboard so that it can be read through the windshield.

Popular parks may reach parking lot capacity this weekend due to high demand. If a parking spot is not available, do not park on roadways.

Only park in designated parking spots. Consider these parking suggestions:

Consider carpooling with friends or family.

Pack all the food and drinks needed for the trip. Leaving a park property and returning may make parking difficult to find.

If camping at a park or forest, consider leaving your vehicle at the campsite.

View current property information and be aware of temporary closures at and around park properties before visiting with the DNR's Wisconsin property condition notices page at dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/parks/propertynotices.

Find a Wisconsin state park property to explore by visiting the DNRs website. The Find A Park feature on the DNR's website at dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/parks/findapark allows you to search for park properties by activity or location. The Hidden Gems of Wisconsin State Park Properties map at dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/outwigo/maps offers some of the lesser-known state parks, forests, trails and recreation areas to visit.

In 62 Photos: Opening Day of the Walworth County Fair, Aug. 31, 2022 Walworth County Fair: The colorful carnival midway lights up the night sky at the fairgrounds Walworth County Fair: 2022 Fairest of the Fair Jessica Markham Walworth County Fair: Afternoon crowd view on fairgrounds Walworth County Fair: Fairgrounds afternoon crowd view Walworth County Fair: Afternoon crowd view at fairgrounds Walworth County Fair: Antiques judging draws a crowd Walworth County Fair: Auctioneer Gary Finley presides over the Fairest of the Fair basket raffle Walworth County Fair: Milwaukee area balloon artist Dan Dort plies his trade in balloon wiener dogs Walworth County Fair: Banyard Adventure & Learning Coop area at the fairgrounds Walworth County Fair: Belgian horse "Turbo" waits in the horse barn as his stall is readied Walworth County Fair: Bumper cars on the fair's carnival midway Walworth County Fair: Frieda and Dennis Evangelista of Long Grove, Ill. dance to the music at the Park Stage Walworth County Fair: Dairy Barn animal exhibition Walworth County Fair: Allen Davenport of Sharon clips his Holstein heifer for show Walworth County Fair: Ron Baughman of the Knights of Columbus serves up a homemade cream puff Walworth County Fair: Sunset crowd view on the fairgrounds Walworth County Fair: Night crowd on the fairgrounds Walworth County Fair: Colorful food stands light up the night on the fairgrounds Walworth County Fair: Walking stricks spread the "Good News" at the Fellowship of Christian Farmers booth Walworth County Fair: The "Century Wheel" ferris wheel is a colorful sight as dusk settles over the fairgrounds Walworth County Fair: Food humor at Emma's Cookie Kitchen stand on the fairgrounds Walworth County Fair; Carol Steilein of Union Grove judges dips in the North Hall Walworth County Fair; Singer-entertainers David Allen Mehner of Spring Grove, Ill and John Ludy Puleo of East Troy bring their "Frank 2 FRANKIE" show to the Park Stage Walworth County Fair: Jon Sherwood of Racine sells fudge in the Commercial Exhibits Hall Walworth County Fair: Fun Slide afternoon view on the carnival midway Walworth County Fair: Dusk view of Fun Slide on the carnival midway Walworth County Fair: Doug and Brittany Kramer prepare sweet treats at the Red Barn Elephant Ears stand Walworth County Fair: "Vertigo" giant spring tower on the carnival midway Walworth County Fair: Six-year-old Rosie Hammerstad, of Elkhorn, shows off her cross-brew ewe Walworth County Fair: A goat eats hay in one of the many fairgrounds animal barns Walworth County Fair: Children's entertainer Nick Dattilo of Kenosha leads a family chicken dance in the Kiddieland area Walworth County Fair: Flying like Superman on the "Cliff Hanger" ride at the carnival midway Walworth County Fair: Holstein cows on exhibition in the Dairy Barn Walworth County Fair: Colorful flowers and vegetables on display in the Horticulture Barn Walworth County Fair: Seven-year-old Penelope Stallings of Elkhorn is off to the Kiddieland stick horse races Walworth County Fair: Badger High School FFA volunteer Kylie Kundert of Lake Geneva readies cow hats in the Discovery Barn Walworth County Fair: Vivian Patterson and mom Betsey Patterson of Elkhorn enjoy a ride on the midway merry-go-round Walworth County Fair: Bright lights draw in evening contestants for the midway carnival games Walworth County Fair: Ruth Knetzger of Hubertus and Paul Melius of Jackson judge mixed grass hay Walworth County Fair: Registered Paint "Bob," 25, is making his last fair show appearance before retirement Walworth County Fair: The Jackson Duo entertain in the WSLD Music Hall Walworth County Fair: Yves Francois Rocambu Jazz entertains on the Park Stage Walworth County Fair: Pharoah's Fury swinging gondola pirate ship ride on the carnival midway Walworth County Fair: Plein Air artist Brad Geers of Milwaukee Walworth County Fair: Plein Air artist Hector Acuna of Cedarburg Walworth County Fair: Colorful prize-winning flowers in the Horticulture Barn Walworth County Fair: Pumpkins on display in North Hall, waiting to be judged Walworth County Fair: Dad Jamie Opper and daughter Ella, of Elkhorn, shear their crossbreed sheep for show Walworth County Fair: Whitewater siblings Rosie and Bentley Hammerstad with their cross-brew ewes Walworth County Fair: High in the sky on the rotating and somersaulting "Speed" midway carnival ride Walworth County Fair: The carnival midway provides a festive, colorful contrast as the sun sets over the fairgrounds Walworth County Fair: The colorful midway is aglow as the sun sets over the fairgrounds Walworth County Fair: The noon antique and stock tractor pulls drew a large opening day crowd to the grandstand Walworth County Fair: Smoke fills the air as a vintage International Harvester Turbo pulls it's load - and into the competition lead Walworth County Fair: Commercial vendor Stuart Mayo gives a cookware demonstration in North Hall Walworth County Fair: Wild West Sodas vendor Terry Vearrier of Odessa, Texas made his 17th journey to the fair Walworth County Fair: A goat settles down in the hay for a rest Walworth County Fair: The Mega Drop thrill ride on the carnival midway drops passengers 130 feet in two seconds Walworth County Fair: Plein Air artist Deanna Bruenig of Oconomowoc paints a view of Holstein cows in the Dairy Barn Walworth County Fair: Vintage 1947 Allis Chalmers "M" and McCormick Farmall "C" tractors on display Walworth County Fair: Mementos of the fair's rich 173-year history on display in the Log Cabin on the fairgrounds 2022 Walworth County Fair "Fairest of the Fair" final competition and crowning ceremony
A Japanese company is developing digital clones of individuals designed to take over some of a persons daily online duties.

The company is Tokyo-based Alt Incorporated. It is working on creating a digital double  an animated image that looks and talks just like its human owner.

The companys chief executive, Kazutaka Yonekura, told The Associated Press he believes such a double could make peoples lives easier by helping them get more things done.

The digital clone, also called an avatar, could be used for things like carrying out early job interviews or communicating with a persons doctor ahead of a medical visit.

Yonekura said the main purpose of a digital double would be to liberate humans from the many daily duties. He showed AP reporters his own digital clone on a computer. It included an image and digitized version of his voice.

When his digital clone was asked, What kind of music do you like, it waited several seconds before giving a long answer. The double explained that Yonekura favors lively music such as hip-hop or rock 'n' roll.

Yonekura argues that the technology he is developing is more personal than other digital assistants, such as Apples Siri, Amazons Alexa and Google Assistant. He said most importantly, the clone belongs to you and not the technology company that created it. Yonekura added that his developers had attempted to build tools into the system that are designed to prevent awkward social mistakes.

Currently, digital doubles are very costly. Each Alt clone costs about $140,000, so it will likely take time before there is a mass market for the clones.

Digital doubles are created by taking an individuals data from social media websites as well as publicly available records. The data is continuously changed and stored in the system. The data is designed to keep up with the individuals changing habits and activities.

Yonekura said he believes a digital clone could open the door for a society in which people can center on being more creative and waste less time on necessary daily activities.

The idea of a digital clone reportedly enjoys widespread appeal in Japan  the country that gave the world Pokemon, karaoke, Hello Kitty and emojis.

But Yonekura admits that cultures are different, and Westerners may not like the idea as much. I cant tell you how many times Ive been asked: Why does it have to be a personal clone, and not just a digital agent? he said.

Im Bryan Lynn.

The Associated Press reported this story. Bryan Lynn adapted the report for Learning English.

______________________________________________

Words in This Story

clone  n. to make an exact copy of a person, animal or plant

animate  v. to make (something, such as a drawing) appear to move by creating a series of drawings, pictures, etc., and showing them quickly one after another

liberate  v. to help someone or something to be free

awkward  adj. difficult or causing problems

habit  n. something a person does regularly, almost without thinking about it
Forty-two years ago, hospital workers took Maria Angelica Gonzalez son from her arms right after birth. Documents say they later told her he had died. Now, she was meeting him face-to-face at her home in Valdivia, Chile.

I love you very much, Jimmy Lippert Thyden told his mother in Spanish as they hugged and cried.

It knocked the wind out of me, Thyden told The Associated Press after the meeting.

His effort to find the birth family he never knew began in April. That was when he read news stories about adoptees who had been born in Chile and had been reunited with their birth relatives through a Chilean nonprofit group called Nos Buscamos.

The organization found that Thyden had been born prematurely at a hospital in Santiago, Chile's capital, and had been placed in an incubator. Gonzalez was told to leave the hospital, but when she returned to get her baby, she was told he had died and his body had been removed, documents say.

The paperwork I have for my adoption tells me I have no living relatives. And I learned in the last few months that I have a mama and I have four brothers and a sister, Thyden said. He now lives in Ashburn, Virginia, where he works as a criminal defense lawyer.

He said his was a case of counterfeit adoption.

The group Nos Buscamos estimates that tens of thousands of babies were taken from Chilean families in the 1970s and 1980s. That claim is based on a report from the Investigations Police of Chile, a civilian group, which examined the passports of Chilean children who left the country and never returned.

The real story was these kids were stolen from poor families, poor women, that didnt know how to defend themselves, said Constanza del Rio, founder and director and Nos Buscamos.

The group said the disappearances took place during the rule of General Augusto Pinochet, who led the country for 17 years starting in 1973. Pinochet led a group which overthrew Marxist President Salvador Allende. Chiles government says at least 3,095 people were killed during that time.

Over the past nine years, Nos Buscamos has organized reunions for more than 450 adoptees and their birth families, del Rio said. Other nonprofit groups are doing similar work, both in Chile and the U.S.

Nos Buscamos has been partnering for two years with the genealogy company MyHeritage. MyHeritage gives DNA testing kits for use at home at no cost to Chilean adoptees and suspected victims of child trafficking in Chile.

Thydens DNA test result said that he was 100 percent Chilean. It said he was related to another person who also uses MyHeritage. The website said the person was a first cousin.

Thyden sent the cousin his adoption documents, which included an address for his birth mother and a very common name in Chile: Maria Angelica Gonzalez. His cousin had a Maria Angelica Gonzalez on their mothers side and helped him make the connection.

Thyden said his reunion with his birth family was a success. But, he knows that reunification might not go as well for other adoptees.

It could have been a much worse story, he said. There are people who find out some really unfortunate details about their origin.

While in Chile, Thyden and del Rio met with one of seven investigators working on thousands of counterfeit adoption cases like his own. Thyden also met with Juan Gabriel Valdes, the Chilean ambassador to the United States, to seek government recognition of the adoption scheme.

He said there was no way to assist Chilean adoptees in their efforts to visit their home country. Thyden said he sold a truck to pay for his familys airplane tickets and other costs.

He said, People need to be able to decide...what their name is going to be, where their citizenship is going to beThey should have all the rights and privileges of a Chilean citizen because this is a thing that happened to them, not that they chose.

Im Dan Novak.

And I'm Faith Pirlo.

Dan Novak adapted this story for VOA Learning English based on reporting by The Associated Press.

_________________________________________________

Words in This Story

knock the wind out of idiom to suddenly not be able to breathe because of a physical blow or from surprise and astonishment

adoption  n. the process of legally taking the child of another person as your own

premature  adj. something that happens too early

incubator  n. a device in a hospital that protects newborn babies

counterfeit  adj. a copy of something that is meant to deceive others

genealogy  n. the history of a family showing who is related to who

origin  n. the place that a person or thing comes from

scheme n. an organized plan

privileges n. (pl.) special rights or things that a person may have
An old adage claims there are only two certainties in life: death and taxes.

Matt Price, senior political science major with minors in Spanish and history, helped develop an introduction to one of those certainties  taxes  that could help Nebraska high school students as well as their communities.

As a summer intern with the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program, Price collaborated with Nebraska teachers to develop a way to train high school students to provide tax services.

Cozad High School will be one of the first two schools to have pilot programs using the curriculum he developed.

I was able to create something that Im proud of that I hope can be used in teaching students tax law and help students gain that financial literacy that I wish I had had going to high school, said Price, who is from Beatrice.

He learned of the opportunity through the University Honors Program. Price was tasked with developing a curriculum to teach high school students about tax preparation so they can hold a VITA site during tax season. They would learn about each of the various tax forms and documents someone might bring in, available tax credits, and dependents. The students then have to pass a certification test from the IRS in order to volunteer at the site.

Other students could work a welcome table or review documents. Price said it was important to include as many students as possible and find roles that fit their strengths, even if theyre not preparing returns.

Its important for students of all ages to have knowledge of taxes, Price said. Part of that is catering to different skill sets so they have a way into taxes, making sure everyone can jump into taxes and understand something about it.

That concept of making tax information available to everyone is a core principle of VITA. Rural areas might not have some of the same resources, and a program like the one Price worked on can help fill in some of those gaps.

What these communities do have are high schools, institutions that can facilitate a program like VITA, he said. If we get high school students involved, the service to the community is so great, you cant really put numbers to that.

One of Prices favorite parts of the project was helping to lead focus groups of high school teachers about what they were looking for from the program. Their responses indicated they wanted something they could make available to all students during class time.

Many teachers wear many different hats, Price said. So one of the things teachers came to that conversation with was, dont give us something else that will take up more time that we dont have. That shifted our focus to, if we can get this in the classroom, then well be able to pull a lot more teachers in. Were not asking them to put in more hours after school.

The next step is to put pilot programs in Nebraska high schools, actually getting the curriculum in action. The first will be in Gibbon and Cozad. Teachers from those districts participated in the focus groups.

The experience gave Price a fuller appreciation for educators. As a political science major who had never before done any work developing a curriculum, he said the project helped him understand more deeply the challenges of keeping students engaged.

Trying to find a way to make sure students will not only enjoy the stuff Im creating but will also learn something from it, that its enriching as well as educational, was truly the biggest hurdle  that I hopefully conquered so this will be successful, Price said.
A protest march against right-wing attacks on refugees in Germany has ended in violence after demonstrators clashed with police.

It happened after about 15,000 people gathered in the town of Rostock in eastern Germany for the rally organized by a coalition of left-wing groups.

The rally in Rostock was one of a number taking place in Germany on Saturday to protest about neo-Nazi violence.

Heavy security and bad weather initially seemed to discourage major clashes between the protestors and neo-Nazis.

But as evening approached trouble developed and some marchers attacked police with smoke bombs, stones and bottles.

Police, who said hundreds of left-wing troublemakers were among the demonstrators, retaliated with water-cannon and baton charges.

About 75 people were arrested.

The protest came a week after gangs of neo-Nazis stormed and set fire to a hostel for asylum-seekers on a Rostock housing estate.

Local people cheered and applauded as the rioters forced the evacuation of the mainly Vietnamese refugees.

About 200 Romanian gypsies who had been camped outside the hostel were also forced to leave.

Police officers were accused of doing nothing to stop the violence.

Copy-cat attacks later took place against refugees in a number of other German towns and cities.

Courtesy BBC News

In context

After the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989 there was an upsurge in neo-Nazi activity.

The problem was particularly severe in eastern Germany which suffered from high unemployment and huge social changes after the collapse of communism.

In the early 1990s there were several cases of black African refugees being killed by neo-Nazi thugs in the streets of eastern German towns.

Almost a year before the problems in Rostock, asylum seekers were driven from their homes in the eastern town of Hoyeswerda by right-wing attacks.

The German government has made efforts to crack down on racist activity but in 2001 a 40% year-on-year increase in racist attacks was reported.
Terry Gou, who founded Apple supplier Foxconn, said yesterday he will run as an independent candidate in Taiwans main election, ending months of speculation.

At a news conference, Gou criticized the governing Democratic Progressive Party, saying its policies have brought Taiwan into the risk of war with China, which claims the self-ruled island democracy as part of its territory.

I will definitely not allow Taiwan to become the next Ukraine, he added.

He said Taiwan also needs new approaches on the economy and other matters at home. Domestically, the national policy direction is filled with all sorts of mistakes. Theres no way to solve the difficulties of Taiwanese industry and peoples livelihoods, he said.

Gous Foxconn, formally known as Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., is a major supplier to Apple and has many factories in China that manufacture iPhones.

Ideologically, Gou is most in line with the Kuomingtang, the opposition party that is friendly to China.

Gou has long had political aspirations. He lost in the Kuomingtang primary in 2019 and tried again this year, but the party selected New Taipei City Mayor Hou Yu-ih as its candidate. Back in May, Gou said on his Facebook page that he would support Hous candidacy.

Experts say Gou is unlikely to become a frontrunner.

Gous speech emphasized unity because he has received criticism that he was splitting the vote, Hsiao Hsu-Tsen, a former deputy secretary-general of the leaders office who often comments on Taiwanese politics. This decision to run  Its a demonstration of his political power.

Since he is running without the backing of a major political party, Gou must gather public signatures to qualify for the ballot.

That is a high barrier to meet, as it requires 1.5% of the voting population in Taiwan, which is about 290,000 signatures, said Yeh-lih Wang, a professor of politics at National Taiwan University.

The other candidates for the Jan. 13 election are former Taipei city mayor Ko Wen-je of the Taiwan Peoples Party and current deputy leader Lai Ching-te of the ruling DPP. Incumbent Tsai Ing-wen is serving her second term in office and cannot seek another.

Currently, Lai is the front-runner, with Ko and Hou trailing in various polls.

Gou meanwhile has never garnered more than 20% of support in polls that pit him against the other three, said Wang, the political science professor.

He always thought that he could be the one who would unite the opposition, though thats unlikely, Wang said.

Gou said he felt he has something to contribute on the issues that matter to Taiwans people.

I have not seen substantive discussions of policy recently, especially on the topics of cross straits relations (with China), economic development or international relations, he said.

Gou said he would work for Taiwanese societys unity because unity was critical to Taiwans future. MDT/AP
China, Pakistan hold joint air force exercise

Xinhua) 09:23, August 29, 2023

LANZHOU, Aug. 28 (Xinhua) -- China and Pakistan kicked off a joint air force training exercise on Monday within Chinese territory as part of efforts to further boost training and coordination between the two militaries and deepen their exchange and cooperation on military technology.

Codenamed "Shaheen (Eagle) - X," it is the 10th joint training exercise between the Chinese and Pakistani air forces. The exercise will focus on training in typical combat scenarios such as joint air defense and joint countermeasures.

The two sides will send fighters, early warning aircraft and several other types of aircraft, as well as ground forces such as ground-to-air missiles and radar and signal troops to participate in the exercise. Chinese naval aviation units will also be involved in the training.

The "Shaheen (Eagle)" series between the two countries started in March 2011.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
Over the first 10 days of the Ghost Month, which began on the seventh month of the lunar calendar or Aug. 16, there have been 15 fires, the Fire Services Bureau (CB) has reported.

During this period, Buddhists and Taoists celebrate by orchestrating ghost-feeding ceremonies, which includes folding joss paper ingots and other cultural customs designed to ease the suffering of the dead and prevent mischievous encounters with restless spirits.

The month is dedicated to paying tribute to those who have died, namely the family ancestors.

A big part of the tradition includes the burning of offerings to them as well as to the lost souls frequently found on the streets of Macau.

The Municipal Affairs Bureau has installed dedicated containers to burn the offerings but residents of Macau do not generally go to these locations and instead perform their ceremonial activities in the street or even inside apartment buildings common areas, which often results in unintended fires.

The peak of the celebrations takes place at the 15th day of the month which, this year, falls on Aug. 30 (Wednesday).

Authorities are calling on citizens to respect the rules to avoid setting fires due to the risk of fire mismanagement.
According to the Economic Development Bureau of Guangdong-Macao In-Depth Cooperation Zone in Hengqin, 10,000 technology enterprises have registered in the Zone, including nearly 800 Macau-funded ones. Since the establishment of the Zone, a number of platforms, such as the four state key laboratories in Macau and the Sci-tech Exchange and Cooperation Center for China and Portuguese-speaking Countries (PSCs), have established their branches in Hengqin to transform their research. Last October, a study institution for brain and intelligence of Guangdong Institute of Intelligence and Technology was set up in Macau, aiming to attract global talent, projects and capital to the Zone.

Related
Lawmaker Jose Maria Pereira Coutinho is unhappy with news that government investments made through the Social Security Fund recorded a loss of 8 billion patacas last year and has called for a deeper analysis of the issue by the Legislative Assembly (AL), he said in an interview to TDM Radio.

He said the ALs Follow-up Committee for Public Finance Affairs should analyze the money lost from the government investments made through public funds to determine the reasons and discover ways to prevent losses happening again.

The lawmaker said there is currently a problem with this government keeping public expenditure under control.

Pereira Coutinho has called on the Committee of the upcoming legislative year to dedicate itself almost exclusively to addressing government investments and results so that things get clearer and more transparent.

Additionally, he wants the government to try to reduce public expenditure, particularly in public works that are done repeatedly and are a waste of money.

The poor investment performance from the government in 2022 has long been reported, including by the Follow-up Committee for Public Finance Affairs that, in November last year, cited the report of the first half of 2022 when saying that government investment plans had recorded net losses of about 8.3 billion patacas.

At the time, the president of the Committee, lawmaker Wong Kit Cheng said it was the first time such a loss had happened.

Citing the government report on the question, the lawmaker said the government had blamed the loss on instability in the international markets.

She added that when compared with the same period in 2021, government investments declined in value 59.2%.

Leading the drop at that time was already the Social Security Fund with MOP7.63 billion lost, as well as the Pensions Fund, which also recorded a significant devaluing (MOP1.91 billion).

A similar result was seen regarding investments made through the Macau Financial Reserve that lost some MOP17.4 billion, citing the same reasons.
The police have arrested two mainland residents who were suspected of usury, imprisoning, beating and extorting debtors.

According to the authorities, the duo imprisoned the victim, also a mainland resident, who owed them RMB468,000, to which HKD5,000 interest was added every day.

Before being confined in a hotel room, he had paid HKD70,000 in interest.

While locked in the hotel room, he was blackmailed to pay another RMB150,000 to 200,000 in addition to the debt. He was beaten, threatened with a knife to his neck, forced to stand in a room and forbidden to eat or drink.

According to the police, the process was videotaped. During the period, the victim was forced to hand over his documents, mobile phone and bank card password, and a further RMB284,000 was transferred.

The victim asked security guards for help in the hotel lobby last Saturday.

That day, police arrived at the scene and intercepted the two mainland men and women.

The police said that two people were found to have overstayed at the same time. They confessed to lending money to the victim to do business, but denied loan sharking and imprisonment for extortion. Staff Reporter
Goldman Sachs estimates that in 2050, the Asia GDP will reach 90.6 Trillion USD (except developing markets) and the World total GDP will be 227.9 Trillion USD. In the similar vein, the World Economic Outlook (IMF, 2023), estimates that in 2028, the BRICS GDP (PPP) will reach 33.65% and the G7 GDP will represent 27.77% of world GDP.

Therefore, it seems the near future will be driven by Asian economic development, and within five years, BRICS will become a leading economic force. In the context of this future scenario, BRICS announced its transformation into BRICS+, expanding its membership from 4 (2009) to 5 (2011) and again to 11 (2023): Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, United Arab Emirates, Argentina, Iran and Ethiopia. What shall the international community read from these recent developments? The answer develops within three lines of reasoning.

Firstly, recognition

The BRICS mechanism began with the meeting of the BRIC Ministers of Foreign Affairs on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in 2006. In 2009, it was upgraded to summit level to be hosted once a year. By 2023, the BRICS leaders have convened 15 high level formal meetings.

In 2009, the 1st BRICs Summit was held in Yekaterinburg  Russia, meaning that the pure investment idea was then converted into a multilateral cooperation mechanism. In April 2010, the BRIC leaders convened the 2nd BRICs Summit in Brasilia  Brazil. The agenda items covered the international situation, international and regional hotspot issues, the international financial crisis, BRIC cooperation, G20 affairs, climate change and UN reform. In April 2011, South Africa participated, for the first time, in the 3rd BRICS Summit held in Sanya  China.

The theme is Broad Vision, Shared Prosperity, and the agenda items covered the international situation, international economy and finance, development issues and BRICS cooperation. Therefore, BRICs with a small letter s thus changed into BRICS with a capital letter S. In March 2012, the BRICS leaders convened the 4th BRICS Summit in New Delhi  India, under the theme of BRICS Partnership for Global Stability, Security and Prosperity, with agenda items including global governance and sustainable development.

In March 2013, the BRICS leaders convened the 5th BRICS Summit in Durban  South Africa, under the theme of BRICS and Africa: Partnership for Development, Integration and Industrialization. This summit also opened a new door for a dialogue between the BRICS leaders and the African leaders.

In July 2014, the BRICS leaders convened the 6th BRICS Summit in Fortaleza  Brazil, under the theme of Inclusive Growth: Sustainable Solutions, with agenda items covering political coordination, sustainable development and inclusive growth.

In July 2015, the BRICS leaders convened the 7th BRICS Summit in Ufa  Russia, under the theme of BRICS Partnershipa Powerful Factor of Global Development, with agenda items including international political and economic issues and BRICS cooperation. In October 2016, the group convened the 8th BRICS Summit in Goa  India, under the theme of Building Responsive, Inclusive, and Collective Solutions.

The agenda items covered the international political and economic situation, global governance, agriculture and BRICS internal cooperation. On the sidelines of the summit, the BRICS leaders had a dialogue with the member state leaders of the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC).

In September 2017, the group convened the 9th BRICS Summit in Xiamen  China, under the theme of BRICS: Stronger Partnership for a Brighter Future. The agenda items covered international political and economic situation, global governance, and sustainable development and BRICS cooperation.

In July 2018, the 10th BRICS Summit took place in Johannesburg  South Africa, under the theme of BRICS in Africa: Collaboration for Inclusive Growth and Shared Prosperity in the Fourth Industrial Revolution.

In November 2019, the 11th BRICS Summit was organized in Brasilia  Brazil, under the theme of BRICS: Economic Growth for an Innovative Future. During the summit, BRICS leaders jointly attended the closing ceremony of the Business Forum and held closed-door meetings, open meetings and dialogue sessions with the Business Council and the New Development Bank. In November 2020, the 12th BRICS Summit took place via live video link and was organized by Russia. The central theme was BRICS Partnership for Global Stability, Shared Security, and Innovative Growth. The agenda items covered BRICS cooperation in combating COVID-19, international and regional situations, and global economic governance.

In September 2021, the 13th BRICS Summit was organized by India via video link under the theme of  BRICS@15: Intra BRICS cooperation for continuity, consolidation, and consensus. The agenda items covered further cooperation in combating COVID-19, promoting pragmatic cooperation and addressing global and regional hotspot issues. In 2022, the 14th BRICS Summit, chaired by China, has capitalized on the continuous expansion of the working areas, putting again in the center of the South-South debate the fight against poverty and the innovation for sustainability, in the context of the SDG and the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

Finally, in August 2023, hosted by South Africa, the 15th BRICS Summit, chaired by President Ramaphosa, was committed to Africa: Partnership for Mutually Accelerated Growth, Sustainable Development and Inclusive Multilateralism. A perfect occasion to announce the enlargement to Saudi Arabia, Egypt, United Arab Emirates, Argentina, Iran, and Ethiopia.

This sequence of events, culminating with the accession of six new sovereign states from Africa, South America, Middle East and Central Asia, demonstrates consistency, sense of purpose, political commitment and external recognition. Furthermore, it also demonstrates that the international community has validated the existence of BRICS, as an alternative platform for new patterns of South-South cooperation, as well as a balancing mechanism, in the context of the construction of a fair economic global order.

Secondly, equilibrium

According to the report prepared at the request of the BRICS Trade and Investment Working Group under the China Presidency in 2022, BRICS is the worlds most important economic bloc, representing more than one quarter of global GDP, and 42 % of the worlds population.

In 2022, BRICS represented 23% of the global economic flows, 18% of the global trade in goods, 25% in foreign investment and their GDP surpassed G7 (Table 1). In 2014, the BRICS established the New Development Bank (NDB) and the Contingent Reserve Arrangement, designed to provide financing support for infrastructure building and sustainable development  These institutions are supporting a number of projects namely, renewable energy projects in Brazil, railway network upgrade programs in India and new toll roads in Russia. The New Development Bank has approved over 80 projects and disbursed approximately 30 billion U.S. dollars in loans. The NDB is funded by the five BRICS member states in an equal manner, and all five members have an equal voting right and there is no one-vote veto.

The enlargement will bring new solutions for continuity but the differences between the new member states, might be leading to other forms of decision-making. The NDB does not impose harsh conditions while providing infrastructure financing to the member states and other emerging market economies and developing countries. Internally, the NDB is a platform for a better integration of the resources of the BRICS countries, enlarging the effect of investments. Externally, the NDB brings the member states and other developing countries closer, and enables mutual development. At the same time, the NDB may become a complement to those present international financial institutions under the Bretton Woods system, thus, is possible to increase the voice of the BRICS in global governance.

The background of the BRICS cooperation was the 2007-2008 global financial crisis. The crisis showed the major problem of the existing global governance practice  the insufficient voice and representation of developing countries on the global stage.

The BRICS is seen as an attempt by emerging developing economies to participate in global governance. For example, all the BRICS countries are members of the G20. The BRICS leaders have formed an unofficial practice of meeting up right before the G20 Summit, so as to achieve convergence in major issues. They try to stand on a common ground in the G20 Summit, and fight for rights of the developing countries against the developed countries.

Since its inception, the BRICS worked on sectoral cooperation in many areas, namely  science and technology, trade promotion and facilitation, banking, investment, energy, health, education, health, innovation, agriculture, and fight against transnational crime.

Currently, sectoral cooperation accounts for more than 30 subject areas  In all these areas, the organization has adopted a global vision. Among these cooperation areas, the Brazilian President Lula da Silva has insisted, again in Johannesburg, to create a single currency.

What we will witness in the near future, probably wont be a creation of a new international currency, but the reinforcement of the de-dollarization, in particular in what regards bilateral and multilateral trade agreements in non-dollar currencies. BRICS had been very clear standing against dollar hegemony, taking advantage of their balance of trade payments surplus (in 2022, BRICS as a whole, ran a trade surplus of 387 billion).

President Xi addressing the summit has clearly pointed out the direction for the new areas of cooperation, namely digital economy, green economy, supply chain () innovation () artificial intelligence, education, and people-to-people cooperation.

Nevertheless, BRICS is continuously extending their areas of cooperation, and security is one of them. In 2011, all the five BRICS countries were members, either permanent or non-permanent, of the United Nation Security Council (UNSC). They expressed their opinion on international security through their votes in the UNSC.

BRICS countries questioned about the proposition of the Responsibility to Protect, and showed their opposition to military intervention in international affairs. In Johannesburg the dominant security concern has been to build the basis of peace in the case of Ukraine armed conflict.

It is true that the developed countries are still dominant in global governance. However, the BRICS countries have successfully made the world realize the fact that, the voice of developing countries can no longer be ignored.

These enlargement is reinforcing that idea. All these reasons allow us to anticipate that BRICS would not exist without China and its existence as well as this latest enlargement holds the potential to steering global development and seeking a new Era of equilibrium, particularly in whole global financial architecture.

Lastly, inclusive multilateralism

The five member states are dispersed geographically and the 11 members will continue to be. Their 11 economies are in different development stages and they often disclosed discrepancies in ideology and in a number of bilateral matters. However, what the recent enlargement demonstrates is clear: despite all differences and all challenges that the constitution of an economic block of this kind implies, BRICS opened the door to six new sovereign states, without preconditions, in relation to their political systems or economic resilience.

Their differences have been mitigated to continuously promote new possibilities, innovative approaches and turning in-depth and diversified over time. BRICS is reinforcing its political appeal, attracting more states, expanding markets, and promoting South-South cooperation.

Its internal mechanisms and external interactions with other states and international organizations has become an inspiration to endorse higher levels of multilateral cooperation at regional and global spheres. Table 2, depicts precisely the comparative perspective of global initiatives led by China and US. In the case of China initiatives, all are multilateral, without preconditions.

The United Nations Secretary-General, addressing the BRICS Submit, stated: I have come to the BRICS summit with a simple message: In a fracturing world overwhelmed by crises, there is simply no alternative to cooperation (Guterres, UN, 2023). Indeed, cooperation among dissimilar political units, and enlargement to more political units, not sharing the same political and economic characteristics, is probably risky, but it is certainly, token of their willingness to advance higher levels of inclusive multilateralism. BRICS+ is asserting a new level of political and economic influence, in ways that have caught many skeptics off guard.

Restrain from intervening other members internal affairs, and seeking to find the greatest common factor among them, seems to be key elements for success. They walk together on a mutually beneficial and win-win pathway. Nevertheless, this greatest common factor, is probably the leading cause of a sort of economic decolonization, as it is the first time in history, that an initiative is developing itself as an alternative to Bretton Woods and at the same time pushing for reforms at the International Monetary Fund, World Trade Organization and World Bank. This new pattern of international and multilateral relationship is worth to be further investigated.

Finally, when in 2001, Goldman Sachs Global Investment Research Division published: Build Better Global Economic BRICs, and coined the acronym for the four countries (BRIC), they could not imagine that this organization would reshape the world economy.

In 2003, another BRICs-oriented research followed from Goldman Sachs. This time (2003), Dreaming with BRICs: The Path to 2050, (Global Economics Paper No: 99), Goldman Sachs (page 2) stated: The results are startling. If things go right, in less than 40 years, the BRICs economies together could be larger than the G6 (France, Germany, Italy, Poland, Spain, and the United Kingdom) in US dollar terms. By 2025 they could account for over half the size of the G6. Currently (2003), they are worth less than 15% (). Indeed, they did not get the number right, but they certainly anticipated correctly the importance of BRICS in terms of global economy and the transformational impact of their existence. As President Xi mentioned in his address to XV BRICS Summit, Victory is ensured when people pool their strength; success is ensured when people put their heads together (Chinese adage).

Francisco Jose Leandro, Associate Professor, University of Macau
At a small section of the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear plants central control room, the treated water transfer switch is on. A graph on a computer monitor nearby shows a steady decrease of water levels as treated radioactive wastewater is diluted and released into the Pacific Ocean.

In the coastal area of the plant, two seawater pumps are in action, gushing torrents of seawater through sky blue pipes into the big header where the treated water, which comes down through a much thinner black pipe from the hilltop tanks, is diluted hundreds of times before the release.

The sound of the treated and diluted radioactive water flowing into an underground secondary pool was heard from beneath the ground as media, including The Associated Press, toured the plant in northeastern Japan for the first time since the water release began.

The best way to eliminate the contaminated water is to remove the melted fuel debris, said Tokyo Electric Power Company Holdings spokesperson Kenichi Takahara, who escorted Sundays media tour for foreign media.

But Takahara said the scarcity of information from inside the nuclear reactors makes planning and development of the necessary robotic technology and a facility for the melted fuel removal extremely difficult.

Removal of the melted fuel debris is not like we can just take it out and be finished, he said.

The projected decades-long release of treated water has been strongly opposed by fishing groups and criticized by neighboring countries. China immediately banned imports of seafood from Japan in response. In Seoul, thousands of South Koreans rallied over the weekend to condemn the release, demanding Japan to keep it in tanks.

Japans Foreign Ministry issued a travel advisory to Japanese citizens to use extra caution while in China. It said act of harassment, including massive phone calls, have targeted to the Japanese embassy, consulate and Japanese schools in China, and it urged Japanese in China to stay away from those places and from protests of the water release, and not to talk loudly in Japanese to avoid attention.

Managing the ever-growing volume of radioactive wastewater held in more than 1,000 tanks has been a safety risk and a burden since the plant was wrecked by a massive earthquake and tsunami on March 11, 2011. The tanks are already filled to 98% of their 1.37 million-ton capacity.

Releasing the water into the sea is a milestone for the decommissioning of the plant, which is expected to take decades. But it is just the beginning of the challenges ahead, such as the removal of the fatally radioactive melted fuel debris that remains in the three damaged reactors, a daunting task if ever accomplished.

The plants operator, Tokyo Electric Power Company Holdings, started releasing the first batch of 7,800 tons from 10 of the group B tanks, among the least radioactive water at the plant.

They say the water is treated and diluted to levels that are safer than international standards, and so far, testing by TEPCO and government agencies has found no detectable radioactivity in seawater and fish samples taken after the release.

The Japanese government and TEPCO say releasing the water is an unavoidable step in the decommissioning of the plant.

Since the earthquake and tsunami destroyed the plants cooling systems and caused three reactors to melt, highly contaminated cooling water applied to the damaged reactors has leaked continuously to the buildings basements and mixed with groundwater. Some water is recycled to cool the nuclear fuel, while the rest is stored in the tanks.

The release started at the daily pace of 460 tons and moves slowly. TEPCO plans to release 31,200 tons of treated water by the end of March 2024, which would empty only 10 tanks because the site will continue to produce radioactive water.

The pace will quicken later and about 1/3 of the tanks will be removed over the next 10 years, freeing up space for the plants decommissioning, said TEPCO executive Junichi Matsumoto, who is in charge of the treated water release. The water will be released over 30 years, but as long as melted fuel stays in the reactors, it requires cooling water under the current prospect.

About 880 tons of radioactive melted nuclear fuel remain inside the reactors. Robotic probes have provided some information but the status of the melted debris remains largely unknown, and the amount could be even larger, says Takahara, the TEPCO spokesman.

A trial removal of melted debris using a giant remote-controlled robotic arm is set to begin in Unit 2 later this year, though it will be a very small amount, Takahara said.

Spent fuel removal from the Unit 1 reactors cooling pool is set to start in 2027. The reactor top is still covered with debris from the explosion 12 years ago and needs to be cleaned up after putting a protective cover to contain radioactive dust.

Inside the worst-hit Unit 1, most of its reactor core melted and fell to the bottom of the primary containment chamber and possibly farther into the concrete basement. A robotic probe sent inside the Unit 1 primary containment chamber has found that its pedestal  the main supporting structure directly under its core  was extensively damaged.

Most of its thick concrete exterior was missing, exposing the internal steel reinforcement, prompting regulators to ask TEPCO to make risk assessment.

The government has stuck to its initial 30-to-40-year target for completing the decommissioning, without defining what that means. Rushing the schedule could cause more radiation exposure to workers and more environmental damage. Some experts say it would be impossible to remove all the melted fuel debris by 2051 and would take 50-100 years, if achieved at all. MARI YAMAGUCHI, OKUMA, MDT/AP
A typhoon has dumped heavy rain in the northern Philippines but did not reach land as it moved toward southern Taiwan. It is currently headed towards Chinas southern coast.

According to the Meteorological and Geophysics Bureau (SMG), the typhoon will be within 800 km from Macau tomorrow night.

In the northern Philippines, flooding in low-lying villages displaced more than 2,300 people, most of whom sought shelter in government evacuation centers. No casualties have been reported.

The typhoon advanced with maximum winds of 155 kph and gusts of up to 190 kph, according to the Philippine weather bureau.

The Chinese port city of Xiamen, across the strait from Taiwan, suspended ferry services from today.

Typhoon Saola was expected to further weaken and may hit the southern tip of Taiwan tomorrow.

Most weather maps put the typhoon on course toward Hong Kong and southern China later this week.

Taiwans weather bureau said it expects to issue a sea warning and possibly a land warning as the typhoon approached.

Also, as another tropical cyclone Typhoon Haikui in the northwest Pacific ocean is moving towards the East China Sea, it might interact with Typhoon Saola later this week.

There are still uncertainties about the trajectory and the location of making landfall of Saola. The SMG will closely monitor the development of the tropical cyclones, said the bureau.

Last month, Typhoon Doksuri hit the northern Philippines, displacing thousands, before making landfall and causing deadly floods in China. LV
The movie centers around a renowned violinist from Belgium arriving in Kyiv to perform. The date is February 2022, and his trip is upended as Russia starts bombing Ukraine. The musician survives a series of inhuman crimes and bloody provocations by Ukrainian nationalists, and he wants to tell the world what it was really like.

The Witness  a state-sponsored drama that premiered in Russia on Aug. 17  is the first feature film about the 18-month-old invasion. It depicts Ukrainian troops as violent neo-Nazis who torture and kill their own people. One even wears a T-shirt with Hitler on it; another is shown doing drugs. It also has the main characters young son wondering: Isnt Ukraine Russia?

Its the narrative the Kremlin has been promoting since the first days of the war  all packaged up in a motion picture.

The release of The Witness comes after Russian authorities announced a plan to boost production of movies glorifying Moscows actions in Ukraine and is part of a growing number of propaganda films.

But in an era of instantaneous information and disinformation in wartime and other times, two questions present themselves: Are propaganda films actually effective? And are they any good?

Whether such films will attract viewers is a big question. Similar movies have been box-office disasters. Plus, sociologists say the public interest in following the war has waned, and people these days mainly want to escape from the gloom and doom of news from Ukraine.

We regularly hear (from respondents) that its a huge stress, a huge pain, says Denis Volkov, director of the Levada Center, Russias top independent pollster. Some Russians, he says, insist they dont discuss, dont watch, dont listen to the news about Ukraine in an effort to cope with that stress.

Film is an important medium that governments have used to shape patriotic messages  from the early days of the Soviet Union to wartime use by Nazi Germany and Italy, and even by the United States during and immediately after World War II. In more modern times, North Korea founder Kim Il Sung and his son and successor, Kim Jong Il, presided over a regular output of propaganda movies.

State-sponsored propaganda films have also been employed in the Middle East to varying degrees of success. Syrias civil war, for instance, became a focal point of Ramadan TV soap operas in the past decade, including some that were supportive of Syrian President Bashar Assad. Iran regularly funds films glorifying hard-liners and paramilitary forces it backs across the region.

In todays Russia, propaganda as fiction isnt a haphazard effort. Russian authorities speak openly about their intention to bring the Ukraine war  or, rather, the Russian narrative around it  to the big screen.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has ordered the Culture Ministry to ensure theaters screen documentaries about the special military operation, as the Kremlin calls its war in Ukraine. The ministry also has prioritized themes when allocating state funding for films. These include heroism and selflessness of Russian warriors in Ukraine and battling modern manifestations of the Nazi and fascist ideology  a false accusation Putin makes about Kyivs leaders. MDT/AP
Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo said she and her Chinese counterpart agreed yesterday to exchange information on U.S. export controls that frustrate Beijing and set up a group to discuss other commercial issues, but neither side appeared ready to make concessions on disputes that have plunged relations to their lowest level in decades.

Raimondo said she and Commerce Minister Wang Wentao agreed during a four-hour meeting to launch an information exchange on export controls. She said they also will set up a working group of officials and private sector representatives to seek solutions on trade and investment issues.

A key Chinese complaint is limits on access to processor chips and other U.S. technology on security grounds that threaten to hamper the ruling Communist Partys ambition to develop artificial intelligence and other industries. The curbs crippled the smartphone business of Huawei Technologies Ltd., Chinas first global tech brand.

Raimondo said the information exchange will hold its first meeting today.

The United States is committed to being transparent about our export control enforcement strategy, Raimondo told reporters at Ambassador Nicholas Burnss official residence.

We are not compromising or negotiating in matters of national security, she said. But this is meant to be a dialogue where we increase transparency.

Earlier, Wang told Raimondo that Beijing is ready to work together to foster a more favorable policy environment for stronger cooperation and bolster bilateral trade and investment. Wang gave no details of possible initiatives.

Beijing broke off dialogues with Washington on military, climate and other issues in August 2022 in retaliation for a visit to Taiwan by then-Speaker Nancy Pelosi of the House of Representatives. China claims the self-ruled island as part of its territory and objects to foreign governments having contact with it.

The visits take place under an agreement made by Xi and President Joe Biden during a meeting last November in Indonesia. The Chinese state press has given them positive coverage, but Beijing has given no indication it might change trade, strategic, market access and other policies that irk Washington and its Asian neighbors.

In June, Secretary of State Antony Blinken met with Xi for 30 minutes during a visit that was postponed from February after a Chinese surveillance balloon entered U.S. airspace. The Chinese leader called on Washington to change policies on Taiwan and other issues and rebuffed a request to resume military-to-military cooperation.

Last week, on the day Raimondos visit to Beijing was announced, Washington removed 27 Chinese companies from a blacklist that limits access to U.S. technology.

The decision may have helped grease the wheels for Raimondos trip, said Anna Ashton and Kylie Milliken of Eurasia Group in a report.

It suggests Washington is making modest but measurable progress with Beijing in re-establishing limited government-to-government communication, Ashton and Milliken wrote. Raimondos visit could produce additional progress.

Meting with Wang, Raimondo defended the Biden administrations de-risking strategy of trying to increase domestic U.S. production of semiconductors and other high-tech goods and to create additional sources of supply to reduce chances of disruption. Beijing has criticized that as an attempt to isolate China and hamper its development.

It is not intended to hinder Chinas economic progress. We believe a strong Chinese economy is a good thing, Raimondo told the Chinese minister. We seek healthy competition with China. A growing Chinese economy that plays by the rules is in both of our interests.

Wang visited Washington in May. The U.S. government invited Foreign Minister Wang Yi to Washington, but plans for that have not been announced.

Raimondo also was due to meet Chinas No. 2 leader, Premier Li Qiang, and other officials.

The Biden administration also has taken steps that are likely to rankle Beijing.

In June, Biden added 59 Chinese companies including military contractors and semiconductor manufacturers to a list of entities Americans are prohibited from investing in.

Last week, Washington approved a $500 million arms sale to Taiwan including infrared tracking systems for advanced F-16 fighter jets. JOE McDONALD, BEIJING, MDT/AP
Travel planning can be a real chore. Booking flights, deciding on the right hotel and building an itinerary might be fun for some, but others dread it. That's why some travelers are opting for an unorthodox travel strategy that eliminates the planning stage altogether. It's called "mystery" or "surprise" travel, and the destination isn't revealed until the day of departure.

This idea isn't new. Some friend groups plan regular mystery travel vacations, with one person or family planning and booking the itinerary for everyone else.

Lanie van der Horst, a travel blogger, asked her husband to plan a trip. He decided to keep the destination  Byron Bay, Australia  a secret.

"I literally cried when he told me that he had a trip planned that I didn't have to think about," van der Horst says.

Let a travel company plan your trip

As these surprise trips become more popular, travel booking companies have begun offering them. Customers pay a flat fee for the trip and set certain guidelines such as dates and preferences, but the destination remains a surprise until the last minute. For group travel, this means that everybody will be surprised when the destination is revealed.

Mystery travel is not only exciting and simple to plan, but it can also nudge travelers to explore destinations they may never have considered otherwise.

"If you like white-water rafting, you may have already been to the well-known spots in Arizona and Colorado," Roshni Agarwal, co-founder of The Vacation Hunt, a mystery travel service, said in an email. "But did you know that the U.S. National Whitewater Center is in Charlotte, North Carolina?"

How it works

Although it differs from travel agency to travel agency (and from friend group to friend group), the basic process of mystery travel involves:

Choosing a date or range of dates Deciding on a budget Setting certain parameters or preferences

Preferences could include the types of activities you enjoy, such as outdoor adventures, or exclusions for destinations you've recently visited or plan to visit.

Then you wait and let the anticipation build. Some mystery travel agencies (and friend groups) will even send a physical envelope with the trip details inside  not to be opened until the day of departure.

Airfare and lodging costs are included in the trip budget, which can vary from $1,499 per traveler for a short weekend trip (3 to 4 days) to several thousand for longer international excursions. Recommendations for food and activities are generally offered, but the costs are not included for package trips.

"We often tell our travelers to expect to spend around $100 per person per day on dining, shopping and activities," Agarwal said.

For mystery trips planned for a group of friends or family, it's imperative to get aligned on the budget ahead of time. The cost of the trip shouldn't be one of the surprises.

Decisions, decisions

Beyond the sense of adventure and the fun story to share with friends, the appeal of mystery travel lies in its simplicity. Rather than spending time and energy on decision making, travelers can focus on the trip's experience. "There are a lot of decisions that have to be made at every stage of a trip, and having someone else decide for you is honestly one of the biggest advantages of surprise trips," Agarwal said. Even the relatively simple act of booking a flight involves dozens of decisions, such as choosing the airline, where to sit and when to depart. Handing these decisions to a travel booker or trusted friend can mitigate decision fatigue.

This simplicity comes with tradeoff s: You may prefer an afternoon departure but get stuck with a morning flight. Or you could end up in a destination you would never choose for yourself (for good reason).

Meticulous planners, who prefer to set every detail of their trips months before departure, could also feel discombobulated by the uncertainty of mystery travel. What to pack? How to know what activities or restaurants to visit? These uncertainties could generate a sense of anxiety rather than adventure for planners.

Van der Horst, whose husband planned a last-minute trip to the beach, suggests that planners share some details about what travelers need  like a bathing suit.

"If you want to trick them  tell them to pack extra stuff . Just let people know what they actually need."

As " surprise" trips become more popular, travel booking companies have begun offering them. Customers pay a flat fee for the trip and set certain guidelines such as dates and preferences, but the destination remains a surprise until the last minute.
Social media has revolutionized the world in ways that few could have envisioned two decades ago. In 2022, Pew Research found that 95% of teenagers used social media platforms for benign sorts of outreach and self-expression  sharing their photos, perspectives and communicating with friends and family.

Despite the prominence of this engagement in the lives of American teens, lawmakers across the country are weighing legislation that would require social media platforms to impose age restrictions for access to online forums. They are concerned that platforms such as Facebook, Instagram and Snapchat are responsible for declines in teen mental health.

As the Centers for Disease Control recently reported, feelings of depression, anxiety and suicidal thoughts among teens have increased with time spent online. Seeing this correlation, policymakers are thinking of ways to solve this perceived problem. While no conclusive link has been made between the two phenomena, policymakers around the country have proposed solutions that  while well-intended  have the unintended consequences of undermining user privacy and First Amendment rights.

For example, a recently proposed bill in Wisconsin would require that social media companies designate all accounts as "youth accounts" unless proven otherwise. The bill would require those accounts be banned from accessing social media between 10 p.m. and 7 a.m. Presumably, this would be accomplished by requiring everyone to submit an ID or through the use of facial recognition technology.

The creation of an online record tied to the identification of every comment or post a user has made online could have a chilling effect on freedom of speech. The U.S. Supreme Court has recognized a right to anonymous speech in the First Amendment. As early as 1960, the high court affirmed the ability of groups to be able to anonymously criticize oppressive practices and laws and to hand out anonymous pamphlets, leaflets and books.

The Federalist Papers, written in favor of the adoption of our Constitution, were published under fictitious names. Regardless of how one feels about social media, anonymity has sometimes been used for the most constructive purposes. And regardless of whether anonymous speech is perceived to have value or not, the government is prohibited from making any law abridging the freedom of speech.

Moreover, social media companies have demonstrated a vulnerability to online hacking. This could lead to the exposure of sensitive personal information to cybercriminals who can then steal users' identities.

Unfortunately, Wisconsin is not alone in proposing unconstitutional legislation that also risks creating unnecessary cybersecurity vulnerabilities and free speech concerns. Arkansas and Utah have recently enacted similar laws that would require social media platforms to verify the age of their users and require those under the age of 18 to get parents' permission before opening an account.
SPACEX

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla.  Four astronauts from four countries rocketed toward the International Space Station on Saturday.

They should reach the orbiting lab in their SpaceX capsule Sunday, replacing four astronauts living up there since March.

A NASA astronaut was joined on the predawn liftoff from Kennedy Space Center by fliers from Denmark, Japan and Russia. They clasped one another's gloved hands upon reaching orbit.

It was the first U.S. launch where every spacecraft seat was occupied by a different country  until now, NASA always included two or three of its own on its SpaceX taxi flights. A fluke in timing led to the assignments, officials said.

"We're a united team with a common mission," NASA's Jasmin Moghbeli radioed from orbit. NASA's Ken Bowersox, space operations mission chief, added: "Boy, what a beautiful launch  and with four international crew members, really an exciting thing to see." SpaceX has now launched eight crews for NASA.

Moghbeli, a Marine pilot serving as commander, is joined on the six-month mission by the European Space Agency's Andreas Mogensen, Japan's Satoshi Furukawa and Russia's Konstantin Borisov.

"To explore space, we need to do it together," the European Space Agency's director general, Josef Aschbacher, said minutes before liftoff. "Space is really global, and international cooperation is key."

The astronauts' paths to space couldn't be more different.

Moghbeli's parents fled Iran during the 1979 revolution. Born in Germany and raised on New York's Long Island, she joined the Marines and flew attack helicopters in Afghanistan. The first-time space traveler hopes to show Iranian girls that they, too, can aim high. "Belief in yourself is something really powerful," she said before the flight.

Mogensen worked on oil rigs off the West African coast after getting an engineering degree. He told people puzzled by his job choice that "in the future we would need drillers in space" like Bruce Willis' character in the killer asteroid film "Armageddon." He's convinced the rig experience led to his selection as Denmark's first astronaut.

Furukawa spent a decade as a surgeon before making Japan's astronaut cut. Like Mogensen, he's visited the station before.

Borisov, a space rookie, turned to engineering after studying business. He runs a freediving school in Moscow and judges the sport, in which divers shun oxygen tanks and hold their breath underwater.

One of the perks of an international crew, they noted, is the food. Among the delicacies soaring with them: Persian herbed stew, Danish chocolate and Japanese mackerel.

SpaceX's first-stage booster returned to Cape Canaveral after liftoff, an extra treat for the thousands of spectators gathered in the early morning darkness.

Liftoff was delayed a day for reviews of valves in the capsule's life-support system. The countdown almost halted again Saturday after a tiny fuel leak in the capsule's thruster system. SpaceX engineers verified it would pose no threat with barely two minutes remaining on the clock, said Benji Reed, the company's senior director for human spaceflight.
A future Wisconsin History Center that would transform the top of State Street got key endorsements from the Madison Plan Commission Monday night, clearing the way for final votes from the City Council in the weeks ahead.

The Plan Commission unanimously passed demolition permits for three buildings on North Carroll Street, two of which have anchored the Capitol Square since the early 1900s. But despite that long history, commission members and other city officials hailed what would get built on the razed lots.

If built, the $160.5 million Wisconsin History Center hopes to be a beacon of state history and open up the vast collections of the Wisconsin Historical Society to visitors for decades to come. The center would stand five stories tall and have stacked terraces crown a transparent lobby that looks out to Capitol Square and State Street.

Ald. Mike Verveer, 4th District, who represents much of Downtown on the City Council, praised the museum as a transformative new cultural institution.

I do mourn the loss of historic resources on North Carroll Street, Verveer said. But I must say that I am celebrating the proposed new history center.

Two other items regarding the new history center  a conditional use permit and a certified survey map  also were also unanimously approved by the Plan Commission.

If approved by the City Council, the three buildings slated for demolition are:

20 N. Carroll St., a three-story commercial building built in 1900 that once housed the anti-saloon league.

22 N. Carroll St, a three-story commercial building built in 1905.

30 N. Carroll St., the current home of the State Historical Museum.

The citys Landmark Commission did find the buildings at 20 and 22. N. Carroll St. have historic value because of cultural significance and their architecture. That finding isnt enough to halt the demolitions, however.

Despite the buildings presence on the Capitol Square for so long, the historical society concluded that their historic significance did not outweigh the benefits of a new history center.

Not everyone is excited about the planned demolitions on the Capitol Square.

Daniel Douglas, a descendent of the developer who erected the buildings at 20 and 22 N. Carroll St., said all of his ancestors other buildings on Capitol Square have been torn down over the years.

These are the last two of his buildings on the Capitol Square, said Douglas, who called for incorporating the facade of the two buildings into the future museum. I really find it ironic that the Historical Society would take history away by demolition of what life was like in the early 1900s.

In response to those concerns, Verveer remarked that erecting a new history center was a much higher and better purpose.

Other business

Prior to voting on items for the museum, the commission unanimously passed other items that would create more housing and make a big change to the UW-Madison campus.

Under a demolition permit passed by the commission, an auto repair shop at 1233 Regent St. would be razed to build a $13 million, five-story, lower-cost housing project proposed by the Wisconsin Housing Preservation Corp. The redevelopment would have 50 units and 1,500 square feet of commercial space.

A conditional use permit greenlighted by commissioners would convert a Super 8 hotel on the Far East Side into 131 studio apartments.

The commission also made tweaks to the universitys Campus-Institutional District Master Plan to include plans for the proposed Levy Hall Academic Building, which would replace the Mosse Humanities Building at Johnson and Park streets.

The 10 most expensive sports collectibles The 10 most expensive sports collectibles 1. 1952 Topps Mickey Mantle Card 2. Michael Jordan's "Last Dance" Chicago Bulls Jersey 3. Diego Maradona's "Hand of God" Jersey 4. "The Olympic Manifesto" by Pierre de Coubertin 5. Muhammad Ali's WBC "Rumble in the Jungle" Belt 6. Babe Ruth's New York Yankees Jersey 7. Babe Ruth's World Series Ring & Transaction Document Between Yankees and Red Sox 8. James Naismith's "Founding Rules of Basketball" 9. Daniel Lucius Adams' the Laws of Base Ball 10. Mark McGwire's 70th Home Run Ball
From crossing the English Channel 44 times carrying troops and tanks to Omaha Beach and injured back to England during D-Day in World War II, to serving the Greek Navy for 36 years and now finally making its way up the Mississippi River, the military sea transport vehicle LST-325 will dock in La Crosse for five days starting Thursday  allowing visitors to see a slice of American war history up close.

The LST-325 served the U.S. Navy during WWII and was designed to land battle-ready tanks, troops and supplies on enemy shores by raising its front end before hitting ground and lowering its ramp.

The ship survived the war and continued with arctic operations with the Military Sea Transportation Service, before it was given to the Greek Navy, which used it until the early 90s.

Then in 2000, a small group of American veterans made the month-long journey riding the ship back to the States, bringing the ship, its stories and history, back home. One crewmember was Don Molzahn, a La Crosse American Legion Post 52 member.

Ken Rupp, Cruise Director for the USS LST Ship Memorial, called the ship the Swiss army knife of the Navy for its adaptable ability. Its eating area turns into a surgeon station, it holds enough fuel to refuel other ships at sea and its flat bottom even lets the ship navigate the Mississippi River.

The Greeks will not scrap out a ship. They will literally park it and let it rot and fall apart on shore someplace, Rupp said. But there was a group of LST sailors that went over and brought it back.

The U.S. built thousands of the ships. An LST, which stands for Landing Ship, Tank could unload 20 U.S. Sherman tanks on shore.

LST-325 is owned and operated by the nonprofit USS LST Ship Memorial and sits docked in Evansville, Indiana for 11 months out of the year. The ship tours the country educating visitors about the role of the LST in World War II, the Korean War and the Vietnam War.

We want to show what the LST did  what the individuals went through that sailed the ship, tell the story about all the men and women that built the ship, Rupp said. Its all part of the whole entire World War II heritage. Its truly the greatest generation and its not just the guys that went to war, its the people back home as well.

If you go What: LST-325 docking When: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Aug. 31 - Sept. 4 Where: Riverside Park, La Crosse Tickets: Adults: $15 Children ages 6 to 17: $7.50 Information: www.lstmemorial.org

While docked at Riverside Park in La Crosse, the ship will be open daily from from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday through Monday with self-guided tours and people onboard to share the ships history.

Rupp said the ships visit provides an opportunity where visitors dont have to travel far to interact with history. While the ship has historical significance and is in museum quality, its still a fully operational ship cruising on its own power.

Were touching history, Rupp said. The story around the ship is tremendous and the more you hear about it the greater it gets.

After the LST-325 sets sail from Evansville for its annual tour, the USS LST Ship Memorial website will broadcast the ships GPS location allowing people to follow its course to La Crosse.

Rupp said hes excited for the ships La Crosse docking not only to educate people but to hear the stories of the ships visitors, especially people with histories tied to not only the ship but the battlefields the ship serviced.

Everybody seems to walk onboard with their own story, Rupp said. And that is whats kind of exciting about it.
EDUCATION

Tina Swindle watched her son make his way across the stage shaking hands and smiling. His purple gown cloaked around his shoulders and a tassel swung from the cap perched atop his red curly hair. It was a milestone day for any teen, but Tina didn't always know if her son would make it here  to high school graduation.

At the brink of his sophomore year at Wylie High School in Texas, Brady Swindle got a job at Sonic hoping to save a little extra spending money. But his co-workers and managers weren't a good influence. He started smoking marijuana. Soon, he was taking pills, blowing off his schoolwork and skipping class.

Brady is not alone. The National Center for Drug Abuse Statistics called youth drug abuse a "high-profile public health concern," citing at least 1 in 8 teenagers abusing an illicit substance in the past year. The center's 2023 study found that drug use rose 61% among 8th-graders between 2016 and 2020, and 50% of teenagers have misused a drug at least once.

"We found out there was a problem, and we talked to a few different rehabs," Tina said. "I chose to put him in an adult facility for 90 days. He was the youngest in there but learned a lot of lessons. I wanted him to see what addiction could look like down the road."

After three months of rehab, it was time for discharge, but Tina said the options for next steps were slim. Brady, who should have been over halfway done with his sophomore year, had to make up for lost time, and 11th and 12th grade loomed.

A rehab counselor told her about Serenity High in McKinney. It's the only public recovery high school in North Texas and one of the longest tenured public recovery high schools in the nation, said Lynn Sperry who, with her husband Neil, served on the planning committee that formed the school after experiencing addiction in their family. It's part of McKinney ISD, located on the McKinney North High School campus.

"We didn't want to send him to something like an alternative school where drugs were still running rampant and the kids don't want to be there," Tina said. Homeschooling or a sober living house didn't sound like good options either.

Serenity is rooted in community. Selfpaced learning and small class sizes help students to catch up and graduate with a high school diploma at their own pace. Students work through recovery together, holding each other accountable and building a long-term support system along the way. As the fentanyl epidemic sweeps the nation, and it becomes easier for kids to buy drugs through social media, schools like Serenity are increasingly important, said Mike Land, a member of the Serenity High Advisory Board who lost his 25-year-old son to acute fentanyl poisoning in 2021.

"They're coming to school and hanging out with other people that are likeminded and want to be sober as well," said Allie Long, dean of students at Serenity. "While the temptation is great, it's a lot greater at a large school where kids aren't sober. We've developed a recovery community, and it's about accountability and a safe space."

This is key, especially because anywhere from 65% to 80% of kids who come out of treatment centers for substance use disorders and return to their regular environment relapse within the first three months, according to a report from Social Work Today.

"It helped me get on the right track," Brady said. "If I just left rehab and I didn't go (to Serenity), I probably wouldn't be here where I am right now. I'd probably still be using because I'd still be around those old friends."

How it works

There are at least 45 recovery schools across the U.S., according to the Association of Recovery Schools, but most are private or charter schools.

Serenity was founded in 1999 and partners with 12 districts throughout North Texas to provide students coming out of substance abuse treatment programs with a place to continue recovery alongside other students who have similar struggles and goals at no cost to the student. However, if a student's district is not partnered with Serenity, they can still attend, but that cost burden then falls to the parent or legal guardian.

The school can serve up to 20 students at a time, as two teachers guide them through an online curriculum. The small class sizes and online curriculum allow for personalized attention and help fill education gaps that many students start with, said Jae Gaskill, principal at McKinney North and Serenity high schools.

"I've always believed that success breeds success, so being successful in school and building that confidence is just another tool that helps them build the confidence in themselves that they can maintain their sobriety as well," Gaskill said.

Brady, who graduated from Serenity in May, said it was the support from the teachers that got him through.

"You're just able to connect with them more because you're in a room with those two teachers the entire day," he said.

Chrissy Commander graduated from Serenity in 2016 and now works as a pharmacy technician. She has been sober for almost nine years. Like Brady, she pointed to the patient, caring environment created by the teachers and programs at Serenity as essential to feeling supported.

"Knowing that those extra people are there in your circle to talk to, it was really nice," she said. "I really liked the one-onone teaching and little meetings we would do as a group."

Getting outside support also is an important part of the recovery plan at Serenity, and students are encouraged to attend therapy outside of school. Long said the school has a collaborative partnership with an outpatient substance abuse treatment center that offers services at reduced costs for kids who can't afford the outside support.

Creating accountability and a safe space

Serenity offers special programs like weekly group sessions with a substance abuse therapist and one-on-one counseling, art therapy and bimonthly yoga and Pilates classes. Students also partake in weekly community service projects and create recovery binders to update throughout the year with reflections, recovery goals and accomplishments.

"I think it's critical, I mean, community and connection are the cornerstone of recovery," said Shannon White, founder and executive director at GraceToChange. She noted that the personal environment Serenity creates ensures that students won't go unnoticed, especially if they are struggling.

"You can't hide at Serenity," said White, who is also a licensed chemical dependency counselor and volunteers her time at Serenity.

During Brady's first day at the school, he didn't say a word. But, by the end of the week, he was already opening up and starting to form relationships that he still relies on today.

"Brady has stayed in contact with a couple of the kids since leaving," Tina said. "I think it's great to have that support system. The kids need it."

Long-term support

Since graduation, Brady got his phlebotomy certification and has applied to jobs in that field. He's getting things together to apply for Collin College and would like to get an associate degree in applied science to eventually go to nursing school.

"I would have the dream of it. But I would never do it," Brady said of how his time at Serenity has influenced his future plans.

In the past two years, every student who has gone through Serenity's program has graduated, with about 315 graduates since 1999, Long said. But leaving Serenity can pose challenges.

Commander said when she graduated at 18, she felt like falling back into a bad place, but her relationships at Serenity and GraceToChange helped her stay on the right path.

"I think we've done a good job of building relationships, so past students will come back and reach out to us and know we're still there to help," White said. "It's not a place just to go to school. It's a place to form connections and long-term support."

Funding and stigma among challenges to operating

While the support Serenity provides is vital, the school struggles with funding, stigma and a lack of awareness that the school exists.

Even as median monthly overdose deaths among adolescents increased 109% from July through December 2019 to July through December 2021, and deaths involving illicitly manufactured fentanyl increased 182%  according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  Serenity has seen a decline in enrollment over the past few years with class sizes between 5 and 15 students.

"You can see how (overdose deaths) have skyrocketed, and so you would think Serenity would be bursting at the seams with kids," said Angie Rogers, Serenity High Advisory Board president who lost her son to an opiate drug overdose when he was 24 years old. "I think it's just that parents don't know it exists."

Further, Long said the stigma that comes with a substance abuse disorder may hold parents back from enrolling their kid in a recovery high school, and, now, with more remote school options, parents may opt for online learning to avoid such stigmas.

With a small number of students, operating costs are expensive. Partnering districts pay about $85 a day for students to attend, which is more than they receive from the state each day in average daily attendance dollars.

McKinney ISD gives Serenity an annual operating budget that pays for supplies, staff salaries and building fees. However, Serenity relies on fundraisers and private donors for extra needs like drug tests.

"McKinney ISD goes above and beyond to keep this school running, and we are so grateful because without them Serenity High could not exist," Long said.

Despite challenges, Rogers said the most important part of recovery for a young person is community, and that's what Serenity creates. And while recovery high schools are often associated with higher costs, a study from the National Library of Medicine showed that these schools increase sobriety and the probability of high school graduation.

"More kids and parents need to know about it," Tina said. "To know that you're not alone, as a parent that helps, too  knowing you're not the only parent facing this."
"Top Chef," the 17-year-old Bravo reality cooking show, was in Madison over the weekend for filming of its upcoming season.

The programs are scheduled to air in 2024, but representatives of the show haven't been more specific. Members of the media who sat in on some of the filming Sunday aren't allowed to give away locations or other details of the show until closer to the air date.

"Top Chef" judges Tom Colicchio and Gail Simmons and host Kristen Kish sat down with reporters individually Sunday to talk about their experiences filming in Wisconsin. Kish, the show's season 10 winner, is the new host for the program as it enters its 21st season.

It was Colicchio's first time in Madison. He said he didn't get out a lot, but was impressed with the Dane County Farmers' Market, one of the filming locations where contestants gathered food for a challenge.

"The farmers market was exceptional," he said. Colicchio said he wished he would've been in a position to buy and cook some of the amazing vegetables but he was staying in a hotel. "I thought it was a really great scene, a good place to watch people."

He said he loved that most of the people only walked in one direction. "Everybody was really nice. There were a lot of people. A few people asked for pictures, but a lot of people just came up and said, 'Hey, thanks for being here.'"

'Great energy here'

Simmons, a food writer and cookbook author who lives in New York City, was in Madison in 2017 as part of a book tour, but said it was in the middle of winter and she was 2 months pregnant and not feeling her best.

"This has been totally different. I've had a blast," Simmons said after Sunday's filming. "It's such a lovely town. ... There's just a lot of great energy here."

She said she was particularly impressed with the farmers market, which she said lived up to its hype. "Quite honestly, I've never seen anything like it."

Simmons had heard a lot of buzz about Mickie's Dairy Bar, so her husband and 5-year-old son went at 9 a.m. Sunday and brought back some rhubarb coffee cake and chili eggs. "Everything was delicious," she said.
ATLANTA  Donald Trump turned himself in Thursday to authorities in Georgia on charges that he illegally schemed to overturn the 2020 election in that state.

The Fulton County prosecution is the fourth criminal case against Trump since March, when he became the first former president in U.S. history to be indicted.

Since then, he's faced federal charges in Florida and Washington, and this month he was indicted in Atlanta with 18 others  including his ex-chief of staff, Mark Meadows, and former New York Mayor Rudy Giuliani  under a racketeering statute normally associated with organized crime.

Giuliani surrendered on Wednesday and Meadows, who sought to avoid having to turn himself in while he seeks to move the case to federal court, turned himself in Thursday.

DEBATE: The first Republican presidential debate Wednesday night provided an opportunity for candidates to make their cases directly to a national audience, and some of that attention translated into fundraising boosts.

PENTAGON: Female soldiers face rampant sexism, harassment and other gender related challenges in male dominated Army special operations units, according to a report Monday, eight years after the Pentagon opened all combat jobs to women.

LAUNCH: North Korea said Thursday its second attempt to launch a spy satellite failed but vowed to make a third attempt in October. The announcement followed a statement by South Korea's military that North Korea launched a long-range rocket.
How is the Hailey Public Library expanding their Spanish book collection?

In the past three years, the Hailey Public Library has expanded its Spanish book collection by 40%.

The Hailey library is one of 300 libraries nationwide that received a competitive American Library Association's Libraries Transforming Communities: Focus on Small and Rural Libraries grants. This came with $3,000 dollars to support follow up actions based on what the staff learned.

Through these funds, the library was able to purchase almost 200 Spanish/bilingual books, most of which were children's books.

The increase of Spanish Print Checkouts/Renewals for Spanish books have increased by 32%. This doesn't include media.

Even with these increases, however, there have been a few factors the library had kept in mind through its expansion of Spanish collection.

"Spanish books are expensive; there's not a lot of publishers in this country that have put out Spanish books," Library Director Lyn Drewien told the Times-News.

Both Drewien and Library Director and Program Manager Kristin Fletcher said that many times libraries will hire someone who speaks a foreign language and have them travel to other countries to get books from there.

"We were just talking about how libraries in Los Angeles will hire someone, for example, who speaks Portuguese and will send them to Brazil to pick out books that are written in Portuguese," Fletcher told the Times-News.

Although the Hailey library's Spanish collection has increased by 40%, it represents only 2.5% of the amount of books they have overall.

"We're still working on trying to bridge that gap," Fletcher told the Times-News.

With the help of the funds and community support, the library also hosts events for community members, such as weekly conversational sessions in English and Spanish, monthly bilingual story times and a monthly Spanish language movie nights.
Faced with an increase in human-caused fires, fire and land managers in Idaho are stepping up fire prevention and safety messages.

Through the first week in August, the Idaho Department of Lands has investigated 152 human-caused fires on lands that receive fire protection from the department this fire season, the Idaho Capital Sun reported last week. That compares to 46 fires caused by lighting.

In neighboring Washington state, fire officials are facing a similar issue. The Washington State Standard reported the number of fires on state-managed lands in Washington has doubled this year, and humans caused at least 82% of those fires.

One of the biggest ones weve come across is abandoned campfires; that has been a big issue this summer, Idaho Department of Lands Fire Bureau Chief Josh Harvey said in a telephone interview.

Most people dont intentionally start a fire, Harvey added. Really what it comes down to is they simply dont understand how easy it is  not only to start a fire, but how quickly they lose control of fire. The conditions in Idaho, from north to south during summer time, our wildland fuels are very readily available to spread and catch on fire very easily. When you combine all that with some wind, our temperatures and the fact that almost everywhere is forest, those fires can grow very fast. It takes a lot of effort to put them out.

Fire official: Its incumbent on Idahoans to be aware to prevent wildfiresIn response, Harvey is stepping up his messages urging the public to be on heightened alert  even to the point of being paranoid  about fire safety and prevention.

We can post signs, we can put up reader boards, we go down to the fairs in town and we present fire safety messages and it still happens, Harvey said. It really is incumbent on the public to be aware and almost be paranoid. They really need to be paranoid in the summer time about their actions.

Harvey said he has interviewed numerous people who unintentionally caused fires who swore up and down that they did everything they could to put their campfires out. But Harvey said without true diligence to put a fire dead out, winds can come through a day or two later, sweep up an ember and ignite a fire.

Fire investigators have even found heat in abandoned campfires 12 inches underneath the top layer of ash.

Harvey has a tip for people to consider if they are wondering if they have done enough to put their campfire out. Harvey asks people to consider whether they would put their bare hand in the ash and stir it around. If not? That fire isnt out yet. (Harvey stressed that people should be extremely careful not to hurt themselves and be aware campfires are extremely hot and dangerous and the rocks or the metal pit a fire is built within can remain dangerously hot to the touch for long periods of time.)

Putting a campfire out requires multiple rounds of dousing it with water, shoveling, digging, stirring the ash and dousing again repeatedly. Harvey recommends bringing a large container of water or carrying a bucket to fill with water from a nearby source such as a stream or lake.

Really they need to have a very good water source to where they can repeatedly be pouring a steady stream of water on that campfire site, Harvey said.

Arson cases, while still rare, are becoming more commonAside from negligence and carelessness, state fire investigators are also encountering an increase in fires set intentionally across all types of land  private property, federal forests, state endowment lands and industrial timberlands, Harvey said.

Weve seen this trending upward over the last five to six years, Harvey said. I dont remember arson being such a big issue, say, before 2018-ish. But since then, every year we have had multiple people that have been conducting arson activity, either in backyards or out in forests. Its become more and more prevalent.

Harvey said the Department of Lands and the State Fire Marshals Office investigate the cause of fires. Each fire and investigation is different, Harvey said, and they treat the two causes differently. An abandoned campfire or a fire caused by operating heavy equipment is treated as a negligent act and a civil type action. For civil cases, Harvey said investigators will determine how much it cost to put the fire out and then seek cost recovery from the person found responsible. For big fires, costs can exceed $1 million and are paid out of homeowners insurance or out-of-pocket.

Every effort is taken to ensure those costs are recovered, Harvey said.

For arson, the state treats it as a criminal act and works with the Idaho Attorney Generals Office to prosecute.

Our investigators are highly trained and qualified by national standards, and they use well-established, tried and true processes in determining where a fire starts, Harvey said. With todays technology  people with doorbell cameras, security cameras and the number of people in the woods recreating  it is very often within the first 24 to 48 hours that we have identified whoever the responsible individual is.

The concern over the increase in human-caused fire has reached Idaho Gov. Brad Little. Last week, Idaho Department of Lands Director Dustin Miller briefed Little and other statewide elected officials.

We are seeing more unwanted human-caused fires, in fact, human-caused fires are up about 30 percent this year, Miller told the Idaho State Board of Land Commissioners on Aug. 15.

Even with the recent rain associated with the remnants of Hurricane Hilary, Harvey said Idahoans should not let their guard down.

Once this event passes were right back to our summer temperatures and our fuels are going to dry back out, Harvey said. For the next couple of months until we really get that true fall rain there is going to be a hazard out there and fire is going to be a very real issue for a while still this summer.

South Hills recovering from Badger Fire: 'Naked' burned land beginning to get green Green shoots are starting to pop up on the 90,190 acres of South Hills forest and grazing land blackened in the Badger Fire.

Winter went well for South Hills mule deer in wake of Badger Fire Mule deer lost thousands of acres of winter range in the fall blaze, but a mild winter has led to low mortality rates.
Sit back, relax and enjoy your flight.

That figures to become easier for Twin Falls air travelers starting next week.

Less than three months after Delta Airlines announced plans to reintroduce a second daily flight to and from south-central Idahos largest city, Magic Valley Regional Airport-Joslin Field will adopt a new schedule on Sept. 5, with departures at 7:58 a.m. and 1:25 p.m. and arrivals at 12:16 p.m. and 9:56 p.m., according to the city.

This new schedule and aircraft will offer our Magic Valley travelers a new day with more choice and convenience, Bill Carberry, the airports manager, told the Times-News in a Monday email. We want to build back the numbers of travelers we lost during the last few years.

OUR VIEW: Twin Falls is getting a second daily flight (again). The rest is up to us. OUR VIEW: Weve been conditioned to be skeptical about air service from Twin Falls, but this newest venture with Delta Airlines is significantly more viable and worth our support.

Multiple flights and larger jets seems a good recipe. The Delta-operated flights, via SkyWest Airlines, will be carried out with a 70-seat Embraer 175 that, in addition to seating 20 more passengers than the current Mitsubishi CJR200 that flies in and out of Twin Falls, includes comfort-plus and first-class seating.

Those are new upgrades for local travelers.

We are hearing positive response from the community, Twin Falls Economic Development Shawn Barigar told the Times-News on Monday via email. The new flight times give better connections for departures and return flights  particularly with the mid-day arrival and departure. Pricing seems to be reasonable compared to options at other far-flung airports like Boise and Salt Lake City  especially when you consider the saved time of not having to drive to those airports and the savings on fuel and parking.

Added Carberry, We encourage people to visit Delta.com to check fares and schedules.

The price for a one-way flight from Twin Falls on Sept. 5 was $349 for main cabin, $369 for comfort-plus and $449 for first class, according to the airlines website.

To mark the return of Deltas second flight, Twin Falls will hold a ribbon cutting and welcome celebration for the afternoon arrival on Sept. 5, Barigar said. The plane will be greeted by a water cannon operated by the Twin Falls Fire Department, followed by speeches and light refreshments, he said.

Our airport team to include the airline station, TSA, restaurant, and car rental groups are all very excited to welcome the 2nd daily flight and the new E-175 aircraft, Carberry said.

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.
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has a representative resident in Cape Verde for the first time, the Ministry of Finance announced on Monday August 28, pointing to the appointment as a sign of confidence in the country.

Mexican Rodrigo Garcia-Verdu was the senior economist chosen by the IMF to represent the Lusophone archipelago.

This appointment of an IMF resident representative reinforces the IMFs confidence in our country and in this government, reads a message from the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, Olavo Correia.

This is yet another member of the important ecosystem of international organizations that we have in Cape Verde and that has helped in decision-making, he said. In his work with the IMF, Olavo Correia pointed out that his priorities were to continue with the Economic and Structural Reform Program agreed within the framework of the Extended Credit Facility (ECF).

The head of Cape Verdes finances also referred to the agreement on the financial fund for resilience and sustainability (RST), as well as the need for the country to continue to benefit from advice to improve macroeconomic performance, with a view to macro-fiscal and financial stability and the consolidation of public accounts. The IMF representative in Cape Verde, Rodrigo Garcia-Verdu, joined the IMF in 2010 and was until now a senior economist in the Middle East and Central Asia department.

He has also worked for the World Bank, the Mexican government and the countrys Central bank.
The Superior Court of Canada made a decision on July 27, 2023, in Montreal that led to the conviction of Zakaria Moumni. According to this verdict, Z. Moumni is required to pay the sum of 30,000 Canadian dollars to Mr. Rachid Najahi, the CEO of the Atlas Media Group, to compensate for damages caused by publicly issued false statements.

The case originates from incidents that occurred during the 7th edition of the Moroccan Festival in Montreal on July 29, 2022. This event had been jointly organized by Mr. Najahi and the Atlas Media Group. Zakaria Moumni disrupted this celebration by making defamatory remarks about Moroccan participants and other attendees.

Among the allegations made by Z. Moumni, there was notably the accusation that Mr. Rachid Najahi was a paid agent of the Moroccan government. Furthermore, he claimed that the Moroccan Festival was a tool of propaganda funded by the government, despite the Court proving that the event was financially independent and had never received institutional or state subsidies.

The decision issued by the Superior Court of Canada stipulates that Zakaria Moumni is obligated to pay $20,000 to Mr. Rachid Najahi to compensate for the damage caused to his reputation, along with $10,000 as punitive damages. The judgment underscores the importance of truth and accountability in disseminating information to the public.

Mr. Rachid Najahi commented on this decision, stating, This decision aims to protect the rights and reputation of individuals. Additionally, Zakaria Moumni is also facing allegations of physical assault against three participants at the Moroccan Festival.
This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility:

Credit: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain

A randomized trial involving all hospitals in London, U.K., has found no difference in survival at 30 days in patients with resuscitated cardiac arrest in the community who were taken by ambulance to a cardiac arrest center compared with those delivered to the geographically closest emergency department. That's the finding of late breaking research presented in a Hot Line session August 27 at ESC Congress 2023. The study also found no overall difference in neurological outcomes at discharge and at three months between groups.

Sudden cardiac arrest causes one in five deaths in industrialized countries. Cardiopulmonary resuscitation by laypeople, early defibrillation and advances in management in-hospital have improved prognosis after out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA). Despite this, only one in 10 patients resuscitated from OHCA survive to hospital discharge.

Cardiac arrest centers provide targeted critical care, acute cardiac care, radiology services and appropriate neuroprognostication beyond what is available in conventional emergency departments. Data from non-randomized studies suggest that ambulance delivery of OHCA patients to specialist cardiac arrest centers improves survival; and there is a strong drive internationally to preferentially treat cardiac arrest victims at these centers. The International Liaison Committee On Resuscitation (ILCOR) therefore called for a randomized trial to generate more robust evidence.

The ARREST trial investigated whether expedited transfer of OHCA patients to a cardiac arrest center reduces mortality compared with delivery to the closest emergency department. The trial also examined whether there was any difference in neurological outcomes with the two strategies. This was a randomized controlled trial conducted pre-hospital across the whole of London examining a pathway of care.

Patients successfully resuscitated after an OHCA but without ST-elevation on their post-resuscitation electrocardiogram (ECG) were randomized pre-hospital to 1) expedited (rapid) delivery to a cardiac arrest center (of which there are seven in London) or 2) delivery to the nearest emergency department (of which there are 32 in London), which is the current standard of careboth by the London Ambulance Service. In the intervention arm, paramedics alerted the receiving cardiac arrest center prior to arrival.

The primary endpoint was all-cause mortality at 30 days in the intention-to-treat population. Secondary endpoints included all-cause mortality at three months and neurological outcomes at discharge and three months, assessed by the modified Rankin scale and cerebral performance category (CPC) score.

Between 15 January 2018 and 1 December 2022, 862 patients were enrolled, of whom 431 (50%) were randomly assigned by London Ambulance Service paramedics to expedited transfer to a cardiac arrest center and 431 (50%) to standard care. Some 32% of participants were women.

The primary outcome of 30-day all-cause mortality occurred in 258 (63%) of 411 patients in the cardiac arrest center group and 258 (63%) of 412 patients in the standard care group (unadjusted risk ratio [RR] for survival 1.00, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.90 to 1.11, p=0.96; risk difference 0.2%, 95% CI -6.5 to 6.8). There was no difference in the secondary endpoint of three-month all-cause mortality between the two groups (RR 1.02, 95% CI 0.92 to 1.12; risk difference 1.0%, 95% CI -5.6 to 7.5). Neurological outcomes were similar at hospital discharge and three months for both the modified Rankin scale (odds ratio 1.00, 95% CI 0.76 to 1.32) and CPC score (0.98, 95% CI 0.74 to 1.30).

Study author Dr. Tiffany Patterson of Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, London, U.K. said, "This study does not support transportation of all patients to a cardiac arrest center following resuscitated cardiac arrest within this health care setting. Cardiac arrest centers are heavily resourced hospitals. If delivering these patients to such centers to receive multiple interventions does not improve overall survival, then these resources are better allocated elsewhere.

"Furthermore, if cardiac arrest patients are not taken to such hospitals, this frees up space for other emergency workincluding trauma, ST-elevation myocardial infarction and acute aortic dissectionthat requires high-dependency beds and the specialist input provided by these centers."
This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility:

Credit: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain

Kaitlyn Weiss felt a searing pain on the surgical table, surrounded by strangers. She was in labor and she did not want to be in that icy operating room, so close to the scalpel meant to cut her open.

When she felt that pain, she knew immediately, "This was my last opportunity to have some control over how this delivery was gonna go."

The charge nurse yelled "stop pushing," but Weiss bore down. Her water broke all over the floor. As the anesthesiologist balked at the puddle, his hesitation gave her enough time for her final, fervent pushes.

She rolled onto her side on the operating table and gave birth to her second child obstinately. Weiss said the round-bellied boy popped out of her vagina "like a butterball," into the arms of the startled obstetrician.

This wasn't how Weiss had pictured it.

The birth didn't go the way the OB-GYN on call at Doctors Medical Center Modesto expected, either, though his plan was much different from Weiss'. She said she left the birth center where she'd been in labor for hours and showed up at the hospital March 12, 2017, seeking pain medication to ease her intense contractions while she continued attempting a vaginal birth. But when she arrived, the doctor said a vaginal birth was not an option.

During labor, the cervix dilates to 10 centimeters. Weiss' cervix was at 9 centimeters when the doctor had his staff shave off her pubic hair and wheel her into the operating room. Weiss and her midwife said the doctorthe same man who oversaw her first birthreasoned that, because she had had a C-section in 2012, he should give her another C-section.

The young mother, then 23, said the doctor later "boasted about the fact that he VBAC'd a 10-pound-3-ounce baby on the OR table. And I'm like, 'You did nothing.'"

Krista Deans, a representative for the hospital, cited privacy laws and declined to comment on Weiss' specific case, but said the story was "not an accurate representation of the care we provide."

Weiss' midwife, Jessica Johnson, was at the hospital that night and confirmed her client's account. She said the experience wasn't good health care. To her, it just illustrated the underpinnings of blanket bans of vaginal birth after cesarean across California: "Absolute ludicrousness." Johnson watched helplessly as her patient came to the brink of being forced into a plainly unnecessary surgery she said repeatedly she did not want.

A cesarean can be a life-saving procedure. But it is a significant surgeryone that can put the person giving birth in grave danger. While a vaginal birth after cesarean, or VBAC, slightly raises the probability of uterine rupture, a serious birth complication, each C-section further increases the probability of bad birth outcomes, including future infertility and maternal death. A 2006 study in the journal Obstetrics & Gynecology concluded that "serious maternal morbidity increases progressively with increasing number of cesarean deliveries."

At a minimum, a C-section is a painful and temporarily debilitating procedure that requires six weeks of recovery and complicates activities as varied as caring for a newborn, moving from a sitting to a standing position, using the toilet and sneezing.

Women could weigh these factors in consultation with their health care providers and decide for themselves what they want. But doctors, midwives, doulas and mothers told The Sacramento Bee that instead, many obstetricians and hospitals in California simply force women under the knife.

Some of that stems from genuine concern for an individual's well-being. A bad labor outcome becomes more likely if the prior surgery was less than two years ago and the wound hasn't had enough time to heal; if the C-section was in response to a situation likely to arise again; if the original incision was atypical; if the person has undergone multiple uterine surgeries.

But all-out bans aren't about individualsand these policies curtail women's choices across California.

Years before Weiss pushed her baby out against her doctor's wishes, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologiststhe OB-GYN professional associationcame out against blanket bans on VBACs.

"Individual circumstances must be considered in all cases," said Practice Bulletin 115, released in August 2010. "Respect for patient autonomy also argues that even if a center does not offer (trial of labor after a C-section), such a policy cannot be used to force women to have cesarean delivery or to deny care to women in labor who decline to have a repeat cesarean delivery."

ACOG explicitly tells providers in a separate recommendation that "pregnancy is not an exception to the principle that a decisionally capable patient has the right to refuse treatment."

Yet these coerced and sometimes forced surgeries happen routinely in California, a state whose leaders have prided themselves on enshrining women's reproductive rights.

Out of 205 hospitals with labor and delivery departments, The Bee confirmed in July and August that 5627% of the totaldo not allow vaginal birth after a C-section. Staff in several hospitals noted that while VBAC may be allowed, it is discouraged, describing it as refusal of cesarean.

Even when hospitals allow people to attempt vaginal deliveries after a cesarean, certain doctors will not work with VBAC patients. That is a brutal reality for the hundreds of thousands of women who have had a C-section in the state and go on to have more children. Some of those primary cesareans were likely not even necessary: In California, 23% of low-risk, first-time births ended in surgery between 2017 and 2021.

And data show that in the same five-year span, the average VBAC rate across all California countiesthe rate of people who, having had a C-section, are able to have a subsequent vaginal birthwas just under 12%. That left a vast majority undergoing multiple cesareans: Nearly nine times out of 10, people having a baby after a C-section were going right back into surgery.

Madeleine Wisner, a licensed midwife based in South Sacramento, has a straightforward explanation for the lack of VBAC access: "It's because we don't give a f about women."

The coerced surgeries have made her conspiratorial. She now believes the authorities will restrict VBAC "more and more and more until people lose reproductive capacity and/or everyone just starts dying in childbirth."

There's no evidence of conspiracy. But there is evidence of infertility and death.

A C-section snowball effect

"We know that repeat C-sectionsand especially repeats numbers three, fourhave much increased risks of hemorrhage, of infection, of abnormal placentas and maternal death," said Amanda P. Williams, an OB-GYN and a clinical advisor to the California Maternal Quality Care Collaborative.

When she served on the California Pregnancy-Associated Mortality Review committee, she looked into some of these deaths.

"It came up all the time," she said. "It's directly impacting maternal deaths in those more complicated repeat C-sections, and then it's indirectly leading to maternal death because of the placental abnormalities that get caused that then lead to a huge hemorrhages during the delivery."

"It is," she said, "one of the top reasons why people are dying from hemorrhage at the time of their birth."

And while policymakers have understandably focused on reducing the primary C-section rate, the VBAC rate remains extraordinarily low, especially in lower-income and rural counties.

Stanislaus County, where Weiss gave birth, is in many respects a typical California county when it comes to VBACs.

Between 2017 and 2021, National Center for Health Statistics data analyzed by the March of Dimes Perinatal Data Center show that nearly 21% of first-time, low-risk births in Stanislaus County were by C-section. That number puts it well above the rate recommended by the World Health Organization of 10 to 15%.

Over the same span, the VBAC rate in the county fluctuated from outstandingly low to low. In those five years, it hit a nadir of 4.2% and, in 2019, an apex rate of 10%. Over the five years, the VBAC rate in the county was 7.3%worse than the statewide average of 11.6% and the median of 11.1%, but not low enough to land it among the six counties with an average rate under 5%.

The numbers don't account for women who may have attempted a VBAC and then, for medical or other reasons, ended up in surgery. Still, wealthier, more urban counties tended to have much higher VBAC rates. In Sacramento County, 20.6% of women who had a previous C-section gave birth vaginally. The highest VBAC rate was in San Francisco County, where 24%nearly a quarterof births after cesarean were vaginal births.

But that still left three-quarters of those San Franciscans having multiple C-sections.

And across the state, a disproportionate number of women undergoing repeat cesareans are Black. A 2018 survey by the California Health Care Foundation found that 42% of Black births in the state were surgical, compared to 29% of white births.

More of those are repeat cesareans because Black women are more likely to have a possibly unnecessary C-section for a first-time birth of a non-twin, head-down baby at 37 weeks or beyond, which in most cases is a low-risk birth. The California Department of Public Health said that in 2018, 28% of Black women in California giving birth under those conditions had a C-section; 23% of white women giving birth under the same conditions had a C-section.

Destinee Campbell, now 31, is certain her race played a role in her surgical birth in 2016, which she and her midwife, Wisner, blame on a "cascade of interventions."

The penultimate intervention was a conversation during which her doctor said they would have to break her baby's collarbone if she continued with labor. It scared her. She wanted what she called a natural birth, but she relented and underwent the surgery.

When she saw an obstetrician nearly three years later for her second child, she said the doctor sowed worry about the complications that could occur with a VBAC. The obstetrician also plugged Campbell's information into a "VBAC calculator." This version of the calculatorwhich is now considered outdatedfactored in race when considering whether a patient was a good VBAC candidate.

When the doctor marked Campbell's race as Black, the calculator gave her bad odds for a successful trial of labor.

"I was like, 'Say that I'm Mexican,'" Campbell said. The doctor had assumed her race based on her appearanceshe is mixed-race, and her mother is Latina. The doctor put in a new race, and Campbell's odds of success jumped up.

Ultimately, she gave birth vaginally in a birth center, under Wisner's care.

Campbell believes the standard health care system was rigged to steer her toward surgery.

The data suggest she's right.

Doctors sometimes default to fear about VBAC

Statewide, out of 683,475 C-section births captured in National Center for Health Statistics data between 2017 and 2021, nearly half47%were repeat cesareans.

Doctors may not mention the scarce access to VBAC in conversations with patients leading up to their first C-sections. Katie Swedo, who is raising three children she delivered by VBAC, does not recall her obstetrician ever relaying how her C-section would affect her future. She gave birth for the first time at 19surgically, as her doctor recommendedto a child she placed for adoption. As it came time for her to start her own family, she learned that in a hospital setting, "They immediately label you as high-risk."

That lingering sense of hazard often colors the way providers communicate with their patients, and those conversations shape health outcomes, said OB-GYN Annette Fineberg. "There's people who are very insistent" that they want to pursue a VBAC, she said. "But there's also a lot of people who just want your advice, and if you make them afraid, they're never gonna go for it."

Sometimes, doctors scare their patients about post-surgery vaginal birth, said Kairis Joy Chiaji. But Chiaji, a doula based in the capital region, said she very often encounters clients whose doctors never discussed it with them in the first place: The repeat C-section was a given.

That is partly due to a small but serious danger to people who try standard labor after a cesarean.

"The risk of uterine rupture is about one in 200," Fineberg said. "If you have a uterine rupture, it's an emergency, and you need to go to C-section." Usually, the baby is fine, but if the parent does have a uterine rupture, there is up to a 6% chance of a perinatal death. For each individual, the risk to the baby, then, "is 1 in 2,000. So it's low, but it's not zero."

The fear of VBAC is also due to something completely unrelated to maternal or infant health: The lowbut not zerorisk that a doctor or hospital might get sued.

Why are health care providers nervous about VBAC?

Some VBAC hospital bans are tied to the institution's lack of a 24/7 anesthesiologist. The explanation is simple: Having a C-section increases the chance of uterine rupture in a subsequent vaginal birth, and a uterine rupture requires emergency surgery, which requires anesthesia.

Relatedly, since 1999, the American College of Gynecologists and Obstetricians has recommended that an anesthesiologist should be immediately available to tend to any patient attempting a VBAC.

But that recommendation may not be solely based on the well-being of people giving birth.

"Concerns over liability have a major impact on the willingness of physicians and health care institutions to offer trial of labor," says the 2010 National Institutes of Health Consensus Development Conference Statement on Vaginal Birth After Cesarean.

"These concerns derive from the perception that catastrophic events associated with trial of labor could lead to compensable claims with large verdicts or settlements for fetal/maternal injuryregardless of the adequacy of informed consent. Clearly, these medical malpractice issues affect practice patterns among health care providers and they played a role in the genesis of the ACOG's 1999 'immediately available' guideline."

The interim CEO of the college, Christopher Zahn, disputed this. "It is inaccurate that medical malpractice issues played a role in ACOG's clinical guidance or influenced ACOG's recommendations on VBAC," he said in a statement to The Bee. "The consensus recommendation was based on optimizing patient safety.  Issues of cost, including malpractice-related issues, were never a consideration."

Still, the fear of liability is widely acknowledged. Fineberg and Zoe A. Tilton, who both worked as OB-GYNs in Sutter Medical Group, wrote in 2012 in the journal Clinical Obstetrics and Gynecology that a scheduled C-section "takes far less time and carries less liability" than a vaginal birth, "even if there is an adverse outcome."

The thinking goes that, generally, whatever happens after a C-section won't spur damaging lawsuits, but a vaginal birth that ends badly could. That isn't altogether wrong: In the 1990s, doctors and hospitals lost several high-profile lawsuits over devastating birth outcomes.

An Alabama mother won $600,000 from a hospital in the early '90s after she suffered a uterine rupture and her daughter diedher doctor had encouraged a VBAC. In 1996, Baltimore's Daily Record reported on a vaginal birth gone wrong for a mother who had two previous C-sections.

Gregory C. Baumann wrote that she spent more than 11 hours in labor before requesting another cesarean. Her lawsuit alleged that the doctor delayed performing the surgery for too long, causing her baby's developmental problems and leading to a uterine rupture and a hysterectomy. She and her husband won $593,000.

Later, the Houston Chronicle reported in September 1999 that a plaintiff settled for $1.05 million after a Texas mother had a VBAC and the child died. The Chronicle's Ron Nissimov wrote, "The lawsuit alleged that hospitals and health management organizations have downplayed the risks associated with vaginal births for women with previous C-sections in order to try to save money."

Such lawsuits contributed to physician squeamishness around women trying to give birth vaginally after uterine surgery. The settlements also helped form institutional policy and practices that forced women into these invasive procedures. Though the NIH consensus panels found there was a "low level of evidence for the requirement for 'immediately available' surgical and anesthesia personnel," ACOG never changed its recommendation.

That leaves rural Californians in particular with fewer options, as smaller hospitals may have an anesthesiologist on-call, but typically won't have one on-site at all times.

Sutter Davis Hospital, too, followed the ACOG's recommendation, and, for a time, banned VBACs in the facility. No anesthesiologist was in the building when Annette Fineberg made a decision that would ensnare her in months of controversy around 2009.

Fineberg looked at her patient's chart and saw her history. It would have been wrong, she thoughtit would have been bad health careto perform a C-section. She talked to the patient, who was in active labor and went on to deliver a perfectly healthy baby in a perfectly healthy vaginal birth.

The patient had received the proper care.

But Fineberg had broken the rules. And she would face the consequences.

VBAC bans can be overturned

As Fineberg has written in multiple articles, Sutter Davis Hospital offered VBAC for decades before hospital administrators banned the practice in 2002, citing liability concerns.

She started working there in 2003, the year after the ban went into effect. At first, she didn't make much of the practice.

Then, she said, "Around 2006 is when people started really realizing, 'Oh my god, we have all these C-sections we're doing. We have so many more placental complications, so many more hysterectomies, so many more really serious problems.'"

She also, like Johnson, said she saw some of the absurdity. "We would have patients who had had two VBACs, and then we still had to do a C-section for them," she said. "Oh my god, yeahwe had to. It was so wrong."

A particular patient pushed her into a mutiny around 2009.

"She was very heavy; she was premature, like 36 weeks, so there's a small baby; she'd already had two VBACs; and she came in in really active labor," Fineberg said. "And I was like, 'I'm not gonna do a C-section on this woman. She's huge. The risks for her for a C-section are way higher than the theoretical risks for a VBAC.'"

Fineberg oversaw the woman's vaginal delivery. The baby and the mother were healthy.

She said the administrative hurdles, however, were "just insanity."

The paperwork she was obliged to do after breaking the rules took months; the hospital admonished her.

She decided the policy was so counter to good medicine that she rallied her colleagues to reverse the ban. The process took years of meetings and negotiations with administrators and doctors; it was, she said, "an epic battle."

But in the end, they all agreed that they could accept low-risk patients who wanted to try a vaginal birth in the hospital. A representative for the hospital confirmed that the ban was lifted in 2014. Anesthesiologists were always on-call for other emergencies, but since the shift, the on-call person comes in for every woman attempting to have a non-surgical birth after a C-section, in case of a uterine rupture. An obstetrician would be on-site as well.

Fineberg said the new policy created an inconvenience for the doctors, and better health care for the patients.

She has since left the hospital, but Fineberg said the facility did around 600 VBACs over nine years after ending the ban. A few times, the anesthesiologist who was waiting around in the hospital stepped in when women suffered uterine ruptures and needed emergency surgery.

No babies were injured, which was the biggest liability fear.

"You could have a pretty big lawsuit if you have an injured baby," Fineberg said. "That could cost millions of dollars."

The fear of a lawsuit was, very explicitly, what forced a Krystina Rossfeld into the operating room in 2018 as her doctor told her she couldn't leave the hospital.

VBAC Facts founder Jen Kamel likes to say, "When we talk about reducing (medical providers') perceived liability risks, what we're really doing is just pushing that risk into the bodies of birthing people."

Rossfeld knows that viscerally.

'I was going to try a vaginal delivery.'

Rossfeld was just shy of 21 when she gave birth the first time, in 2008. The doctor had given her Pitocin, which induces labor and, as it does so, makes contractions much more intense. The pain was excruciating.

Then the doctor told her that her baby was in danger, and they should go ahead with a cesarean. She acquiesced.

"I was naive," Rossfeld said. "It was a combination of being young and being uneducated, and believing the doctors. And that led to a C-section."

During the surgery, the drugs made her vomit.

Health care providers recommend that an incision should have at least two years to heal before the start of the next pregnancy. Four years later, Rossfeld was pregnant again, and she delivered her daughter vaginally. In 2016, after laboring with her third child for hours, she opted for a second C-section.

She became pregnant with her fourth child, due in 2018. She said she discussed vaginal birth with her obstetrician early on, and the doctor supported her desire to try to avoid another surgery.

She hadn't had a C-section for two years. Because she underwent two prior cesareans, the likelihood of complications from a vaginal birth was higher (though, so too were the risks of a third surgeryand she wanted to have more children).

"They needed to say what they needed to say about risks and stuff, but they were like, 'It's your choice if you want to do it,'" she recalled. "They were on board with it. They had no issue, or at least they did not let me know of any issues."

She said she discussed the VBAC plan with her doctor multiple times. She didn't want to recover from the surgery, and furthermore, a VBAC was her best chance to have safer births in the future.

"Up until the day of delivery," Rossfeld said, "I understood that that was gonna happen: I was going to try a vaginal delivery."

On the day she went into labor, though, a different doctor met her at Kaiser Modesto. And that doctor had other ideas.

Rossfeld and her husband at the time, Corey Logan, both remember the obstetrician walking into the room and saying she knew what Rossfeld wanted, and she wasn't going to let it happen.

An effort 'to coerce'

A representative for Kaiser Permanente, Jordan Scott, said in a statement, "We make every attempt to honor the patient's birth plan while still ensuring the health and safety of the patient and her baby." Scott noted that Kaiser hospitals have some of the "highest rates of successful and safe VBAC."

So, in accordance with the hospital system's rules, Kaiser Modesto didn't have a VBAC ban. But Rossfeld and Logan said the doctor on call told them she wouldn't "allow" a vaginal delivery.

Doctors are allowed to make those personal decisions, and they, too, broaden or conscribe women's options. Maybe a woman plans to deliver at a hospital that allows VBAC, but if the doctor on call when she goes into labor thinks it's too riskyfor the baby, for the parent or for their own careerthen that woman's choice becomes irrelevant.

Rossfeld said her experience delivering her fourth child felt like a double-cross. She remembered that in the tiny hospital room, the doctor told her, "I'm not gonna let you deliver vaginally. If something happens, it's a liability. It's my license."

Rossfeld was in the throes of labor, but she was defiant at first. Fine, she told the doctor, she would just go to a different hospital.

And then, Rossfeld said, the doctor told her she was not allowed to leave.

Looking back, she viewed it as an effort "to coerce me into agreeing to having a C-section against my will."

She gave in, feeling as though she had no other choice. They shaved her, and wheeled her into the operating room just before midnight. The anesthesia made her body shake with cold.

Rossfeld was numb, so she couldn't feel the knife.

But as the doctor sliced into her, she wept.

2023 The Sacramento Bee.

Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility:

Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain

Long-term exposure to one of the most prevalent types of air pollution may increase the risk of developing dementia, a debilitating neurological disease associated with memory loss and reduced cognitive function, according to a new study.

Researchers at the University of Michigan have concluded that people living with higher levels of fine particulate matter, or PM2.5, could face a greater risk of being stricken with dementia, according to a study published recently in the Journal of the American Medical Assn.

Scientists monitored the cognitive health of nearly 28,000 people aged 50 or older living across the United States between 1998 and 2016. Fifteen percent of this group developed dementia, and those who lived in areas with more PM2.5 were more likely to succumb to the neurodegenerative illness.

Based on those results, the study estimates fine particulate pollution may be responsible for 188,000 dementia diagnoses each year in the United States. And evidence suggests the health risk may vary with the type of PM2.5a catchall term for suspended material about 30 times smaller than the width of a human hair.

Scientists examined exposure to nine different types of particulate ranging from traffic to coal combustion. Exposure to pollution from wildfires and agricultural dust had the strongest ties to the prevalence of dementia, according to Boya Zhang, lead author and research fellow at the University of Michigan.

"The main reason for this distinction may be due to the different physical or chemical characteristics of the PM2.5 from these different sources. All particles are harmful to you, but wildfires and agriculture [dust] may be more harmful to your cognitive health."

As people live longer and the global population continues to trend older, the findings underscore the importance of limiting exposure to air pollution to cognitive health. But the study also arrives amid a particularly devastating Canadian wildfire season when smoke and soot drifted across North America and engulfed such cities as Chicago and Detroit, highlighting how these intensifying natural disasters can imperil millions of people thousands of miles away.

The research is also concerning for Californians, who have seen their state ravaged by record-setting wildfires and drought that turned thousands of acres of farmland into dust bowls.

The study also serves as a reminder of the sweeping effects air pollution can have on human health. Particulate pollution has already been found to contribute to lung disease, heart attacks, strokes, low birth weight and diabetes.

And, earlier this month, a new study suggested a connection between PM2.5 exposure and the prevalence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, also known as superbugs. Exposure to PM2.5 can make cell membranes more permeable, making it easier for bacteria to share DNA that would give them immunity to certain antibiotics, according to lead author Hong Chen, of Zhejiang University in China.

The theory that this could accelerate the larger problem of antibiotic resistance has been met with some skepticism, however.

"Just because particulate matter is perhaps increasing the permeability of the cell membrane, that does not necessarily mean that transfer of these antibiotic-resistant genes is going to happen," said Adam Smith, a USC professor who discovered bacteria in L.A. County wastewater that were resistant to colistin, a last-resort antibiotic.

But the University of Michigan study bolsters a growing body of research linking air pollution to neurological illnesses. In a 2022 study examining the cognitive health of women between 74 and 92 years old, USC researchers found the risk of dementia decreased by 14% in areas with the greatest PM2.5 reductions. In a 2020 study, researchers at UC Davis found evidence that exposure to traffic-related air pollution altered the brain development of rats.

Whether cognitive or cardiovascular, the wide-ranging health effects of PM2.5 have been attributed to oxidative stressthe physical toll from the body's natural response to the entry of foreign objects, which can lead to inflammation.

The severity of oxidative stress depends on the type of PM2.5 a person is exposed to. In the Michigan study, scientists modeled PM2.5 pollution from traffic, agriculture, windblown dust, coal-fired power plants and various industrial emissions, among other sources.

Except for windblown dust, all other sources were correlated with higher dementia prevalence. Surprisingly, wildfires and farm dust had stronger ties to dementia prevalence than traffic pollution and coal combustion.

"This could be partially explained due to the pesticides or herbicides in agriculture, because some ingredients could be neurotoxic," said Zhang, the Michigan researcher. "For wildfires, we only think about trees or grasslands burning. But it burns everything in their path, including gas stations and houses, emitting some really toxic components."

This could spell trouble for residents of the San Joaquin Valley, California's agricultural hub, which experiences the nation's highest levels of PM2.5 annually from livestock manure and dust. It also emphasizes the need for California residents to protect themselves from wildfires.

"When you inhale any sort of particle, you're body is going to have some sort of immune response," said Suzanne Paulson, a UCLA professor of atmospheric and oceanic sciences. "But composition matters because if you're near the coast, you might be breathing sea salt, which is not that bad for your body to deal with.

"When you have wildfire smoke, you have these big complicated organic molecules that interact with metals very strongly and change their chemistry sometimes ... So that's why we think that things like wildfire smoke are particularly problematic."

Much of PM2.5 in Southern California is the result of traffic on the region's notoriously congested roads. But the composition of this pollution has recently changed, according to Paulson.

Paulson examined PM2.5 across more than 50 locations in Greater Los Angeles. Though vehicle exhaust was once the primary source of particulate pollution in the region, metal particles from brake and tire wear are now a significant and growing source of PM2.5, Paulson said.

It has surpassed tailpipe emissions in recent years, as evidenced by higher copper and iron concentrations. While this trend shows how much cleaner vehicle engines have become, it also underscores an emerging concern.

As a growing number of heavy electric vehicles hit the road, there could be an increase in metal particles from eroding brakes and tiresand these substances are more toxic than vehicle exhaust.

"The heavier vehicles are going to produce more tire wear for sure," Paulson said. "A lot of [EVs] have regenerative braking, which probably mitigates some emissions, but we're not entirely sure if it goes far enough."

Paulson's research has already concluded that disadvantaged communities endure the highest concentrations and most toxic types of PM2.5.

The authors of the Michigan study are among a growing chorus of scientists who say new research demonstrates the health benefits of reducing the annual PM2.5 standard. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has proposed a rule lowering the federal limit for PM2.5 from 12 micrograms per cubic meter, to 9.

The EPA's Clean Air Scientific Advisory Committee has recommended the agency lower it to 8.

Nationally, PM2.5 has been significantly reduced over the past two decades. But some emissions, like those from wildfires, are disrupting this progress.

"Global aging and the problem of dementia is becoming more and more serious worldwide," Zhang said. "We've known for a long time that air pollution is a risk factor for respiratory and cardiovascular disease. But we're only just beginning to understand more about the impact on dementia."

2023 Los Angeles Times.

Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility:

Monthly #MedEd posts to X are on the rise as health professionals use social media to learn and teach the art of medicine. Credit: John Ayers, Ph.D., of the Qualcomm Institute at UC San Diego

Ever wonder what your doctor is doing on social media? A new study, titled "#MedEd: Medical Education and Knowledge Translation on Social Media," published in JAMA led by John W. Ayers, Ph.D., from the Qualcomm Institute within the University of California San Diego, finds some physicians are harnessing the reach of social media to share and debate medical advancements.

The research team obtained all posts containing #MedEd made to X, formerly Twitter, from January 2012 through December 2022. There were 4,397,691 original posts with the hashtag #MedEd on X during this time. The number of posts increased each year, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, most recently from 692,095 during 2021 to 1,178,647 during 2022.

"To put our findings into context, social media is the largest publisher of medical knowledge," said Ayers, who is vice chief of innovation in the Division of Infectious Disease and Global Public Health at UC San Diego School of Medicine in addition to his Qualcomm Institute affiliation. "Unlike traditional knowledge resources that are kept in medical schools or paywalled, social media harnesses the collective wisdom and insights of millions of doctors transparently."

Harnessing #MedEd to accelerate medical science and improve practice

"Social media has been the subject of intense scrutiny, particularly concerns over misinformation; however, for health professionals like myself, social media is incredibly valuable for staying up to date on the latest medical advancements," said Aaron Goodman, M.D., an associate clinical professor at UC San Diego School of Medicine and study co-author, who goes by the moniker Papa Heme on X, where he shares content on oncology and hematology to his 127,000+ mostly physician followers.

"New medical knowledge is often nuanced, and well-informed people can have valid, differing opinions on the same data," added physician-scientist and study co-author Davey Smith, M.D., chief of the Division of Infectious Disease and Global Public Health at UC San Diego School of Medicine and co-director of the university's Altman Clinical and Translational Research Institute. "Social media is a way to rapidly disseminate such information and provide a platform to robustly debate the veracity of such new knowledge."

"The potential for #MedEd to improve medical education is considerable, but the risks of dismissing #MedEd is potentially greater," continued Smith. "Our study suggests now is time to invest more resources into #MedEd to unite the tens of millions of health professionals across the globe in continuous learning and teaching."
This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility:

Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain

An uptick in fevers detected among children at more than two dozen hospitals in North America during COVID-19 highlights the question whether there are normally more autoinflammatory disorders such as recurrent fevers among children going overlooked in non-pandemic times, according to a new study by researchers including a CDI physician-scientist.

The paper "Increase in pediatric recurrent fever evaluations during the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic in North America" was published by Frontiers in Pediatrics, and includes Sivia Lapidus, M.D., pediatric rheumatologist, Joseph M. Sanzari Children's Hospital, Hackensack Meridian Health, the Hearst Foundation Physician-Scientist at the Hackensack Meridian Center for Discovery and Innovation (CDI), and an assistant professor of Pediatrics at the Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine.

"The increase in new patients evaluated for recurrent fevers also suggests that recurrent fevers in children may be more common than previously thought and perhaps did not prompt early medical attention pre-pandemic as they were attributed to common infections of childhood," conclude the authors, from the Childhood Arthritis and Rheumatology Research Alliance (CARRA) PFAPA/Autoinflammatory Disease Working Group.

The researchers assessed patient encounters at 27 sites in North America. They found that recurrent fevers jumped from 7.79 percent of pediatric patients pre-pandemic, to 10.9 percent after the arrival of SARS-CoV-2.

Number of new visits with recurrent fever diagnostic codes (absolute number (A) and percentage of all new visits (B)). Credit: Frontiers in Pediatrics (2023). DOI: 10.3389/fped.2023.1240242

"Our data demonstrated a temporal increase in pediatric subspecialty evaluations for new recurrent fever diagnoses during the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic in North America, both in absolute numbers and proportionally in relation with the total new outpatient pediatric encounters in all geographic areas included in this study," the paper states.

A possible explanation is that fevers normally go overlooked during "normal" times without a pandemic were noticed and prompted a clinical visit during the pandemic, when temperatures were monitored closely.

"We speculate that children with autoinflammatory disorders were recognized earlier because they were having recurrent fevers with minimal infectious exposures from daycare or school, which is consistent with previous reports," they conclude. "Additionally, the frequent assessments of temperature due to COVID-19 precautions may also have increased awareness of childhood recurrent fevers."

"Further research is needed to understand the reasons behind these findings and to explore noninfectious triggers for recurrent fevers in children," they add.

More information: Leanne M. Mansfield et al, Increase in pediatric recurrent fever evaluations during the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic in North America, Frontiers in Pediatrics (2023). DOI: 10.3389/fped.2023.1240242

Provided by Hackensack Meridian Health
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Dr. Leanne Redman, Associate Executive Director for Scientific Education at Pennington Biomedical and Professor of Reproductive Endocrinology & Women's Health. Credit: Pennington Biomedical Research Center

Louisiana women who gave birth during the COVID-19 pandemic were 3% to 7% more likely to exceed the recommended weight gain levels than those who gave birth prior to the pandemic. Research from Pennington Biomedical Research Center and Woman's Hospital in Baton Rouge showed that instances of non-optimal gestational weight gain, or GWG, were seen in more than 45% of pregnant women during the peak of the pandemic, whereas only 42% experienced non-optimal gain in the year preceding the pandemic.

The examination of patterns in gestational weight gain during the pandemic is one of several studies conducted by Pennington Biomedical in partnership with Woman's Hospital, the largest delivery hospital in Louisiana. The study examined more than 23,000 deliveries between March 2019 and March 2022.

"The data from Woman's Hospital provided a unique opportunity to examine trends within an expansive population of pregnant women and how the women in our region reacted and adapted to the global pandemic," said Dr. Leanne Redman, Associate Executive Director for Scientific Education at Pennington Biomedical and Professor of Reproductive Endocrinology & Women's Health. "The pandemic had a wide-reaching impact, beyond the spread of the virus itself, and the resulting increase in gestational weight gain may present further indirect impacts of the virus into the future for women and babies."

Of those pregnancies conceived after the pandemic started and the late pandemic, a slightly lower 44% exceeded recommendations for weight gain during pregnancy, but these participants began pregnancy at a slightly higher weight. However, for mothers living with obesity, GWG has continued to rise. These findings suggest that GWG plateaued in the later parts of the pandemic for women in our region except for those living with obesity.

Studies cited in the research affirm that the COVID-19 outbreak led to community social distancing and many people reported more time spent in sedentary lifestyles, coupled with unfavorable changes in eating habits and worsened anxiety and depression. Additionally, pregnant individuals were less likely to attend prenatal or postpartum visits with health professionals.

"Dr. Redman and her colleagues at Woman's Hospital have shed light on an important health side-effect from the pandemicthe rise of weight gain among pregnant women in Louisiana," said Dr. John Kirwan, Executive Director of Pennington Biomedical.

"As seen with previous disasters, the stresses of the moment, the decrease in socialization and the increase in sedentary behavior associated with stay-at-home orders became a perfect atmosphere for this result. For many of us, our attention turned to other priorities and away from maintaining a healthy weight. This study shows that this was the case for many pregnant women in Louisiana during the pandemic."

These observations mirror those seen in research following natural disasters, but whereas GWG may have been affected by a disruption of food supply, calorie availability remained abundant in the U.S. during the COVID-19 pandemic, even with increased food insecurity in certain groups.

"Woman's is focused on improving outcomes for women and infants at every opportunity" said Rene Ragas, Chief Executive Officer of Woman's Hospital. "This project is a perfect example of partnerships that can bridge clinical care and research to give us important insights for quality outcomes."

Inadequate gestational weight gain has been shown to lead to harmful effects on both the mother and the newborn, but only one-third of women achieve appropriate weight gain during pregnancy. GWG can lead to an increased risk for cardiovascular disease, and even exceeding recommended weight levels by four or five pounds can increase the likelihood of lifelong obesity in the child.

More information: Emily W. Harville et al, Trends in Gestational Weight Gain in Louisiana, March 2019 to March 2022, JAMA Network Open (2023). DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2023.31277
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Annette Fineberg realized the policy was bull.

The obstetrician's patientwho was overweight, in active labor, delivering a premature and thus small babyhad previously undergone a C-section, sure. But the woman had given birth vaginally two times after that surgery, and, again, she was very much in labor. A repeat C-section, Fineberg thought, would be a bigger risk to the woman's health than a vaginal birth.

A cesarean is a significant surgery and can put the person giving birth in danger. A vaginal birth after cesarean, or VBAC, raises other concerns, but each C-section further increases the probability of bad birth outcomes.

So the doctor did something she hadn't done in more than five years of working at Sutter Davis Hospital: She ignored the facility's ban on vaginal birth after cesareans, and she oversaw the care of her patient as the mother delivered vaginally.

In the end, Fineberg had a healthy mom, a healthy baby and a stern letter from the hospital admonishing her for violating the policy.

She resolved to get that policy changed, and in the process, she and her colleagues made Sutter Davis a model for community hospitals across California.

How did Sutter Davis undo its VBAC ban?

After extensive negotiations, the hospital lifted the ban on vaginal birth after C-sections in 2014. In nearly a decade since, people seeking care there have had better options and healthier birth outcomes, said Fineberg, who no longer works at the hospital.

The ban wasn't created on a whim. Leaders at the hospital had faced what appeared to be a dilemma when the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists put out a practice bulletin in 1999 saying that if patients in a hospital were attempting vaginal births after C-sections, then that hospital should have everything needed for an emergency surgery, including an anesthesiologist, immediately available.

Like many smaller hospitals, Sutter Davis does not have an anesthesiologist physically present at the hospital 24/7. So, in response to the guidelines, they compelled pregnant women into sometimes unnecessary surgeries.

A first birth with a single fetus that is head-down and at or beyond 37 weeks is considered a low-risk birth. Despite the lower risk, the C-section rate for those births in California is still much higher than the 10 to 15% recommended by the World Health Organization, suggesting many of those first C-sections weren't really medically needed in the first place.

And these people are in a bind, too: Once they have a first C-sectioneven if it wasn't really necessarythe odds of having another major surgery if they have more children jump. National Center for Health Statistics data analyzed by the March of Dimes Perinatal Data Center show that between 2017 and 2021, the average VBAC rate across all California counties was just under 12%, meaning that the vast majority of births after a C-section are more C-sections.

Those numbers are partially related to a genuine health risk: Once a person has had a C-section, the chance of a uterine rupture increases to less than 1% during a subsequent standard labor. A uterine rupture is a medical emergency that requires surgery, hence ACOG's guideline that surgery needs to be accessible "immediately."

But ACOG's provision also appears to leave small hospitals which don't have 24/7 anesthesia coverage with a grim choice: Flout the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, or tell women that once they've had a C-section, they must have another scheduled surgery in that facility, no matter what.

Even the existence of such a ban discouraged women who were good candidates for a trial of labor after C-section from seeking care elsewhere, Fineberg said.

"Just the fact that they had to go somewhere else, like, "Oh, it must be risky, I better not do that, I should have my scheduled C-section,'" she said. "That's a fine decision for an individual to make if they want to make that decision. But on a population," those choices just led to significantly more surgeries.

After a few years working under the ban, Fineberg said, "Everybody was realizing, we're really doing the wrong thing for patients." And then, once she got in the tiff with the administration over defying the policy, she got to work.

Fineberg was able to rally people to her cause, partly as a point of professional pride.

"All the VBACs in our county had been done at home," she said. "Here we are, supposedly a hospital, and we can't do it, and yet every home birth midwife is doing it. It's like, hello, people? Are we supposedly the experts in maternal care?"

The shift took several years of negotiations, but in the end, medical staff obstetricians, pediatricians, anesthesiologists and hospital administrators came to an agreement, a representative for Sutter Davis confirmed. They settled on a pricey strategy, but one that they believed was safer for patients and for their own liability concerns: They would accept good candidates for VBAC, and whenever one of them came to the hospital in labor, the anesthesiologist on-call would just come in and wait around in case something bad happened.

There were a few isolated uterine ruptures, Fineberg said. But overall, the new policy was a huge success.

In 2022 and 2023, the hospital won awards from the California Maternal Quality Care Collaborative for its relatively low rate of C-sections for low-risk births; Cal Hospital Compare rates Sutter Davis "superior" on several maternity metrics.

Including its exceptional VBAC rate.

2023 The Sacramento Bee.

Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
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In a review published in the open access journal BMJ Open Trinity researchers, led by Dr. Julie Broderick, head of discipline of physiotherapy, school of medicine, have presented findings showing that Irish Travellers suffer a disproportionate burden of physical health conditions with common conditions like metabolic syndrome, asthma, bronchitis, and tuberculosis 23 times more prevalent in Travellers compared to the general Irish population.

For the first time, all available evidence across published reports and peer-reviewed journals, along with gray literature was pooled, reporting physical health conditions of Minceiri or Irish Travellers, up to 4 April 2023.

Eleven unique studies (20 reports) were included in this scoping review, including n=7,397 participants. One study took place in England and Wales, while the remaining studies took place in Ireland, North and South.

Dr. Broderick said, "Pooling the available evidence together really highlighted marked health disparities between Travellers and comparable figures from the general Irish population. The prevalence of a number of respiratory and cardiac conditions was two to three times higher in Travellers. Some rare conditions were described and there was a high injury profile in Travellers."

"We very much valued the input of a member of the Traveller community, Amy Ward who co-authored this work. Amy provided important direction, ensuring that the Traveller voice was integrated throughout the entire review process, which has enhanced the relevance and real-world impact of this work."

Amy Ward, member of the Traveller community, said, "I really see the value of collating this information which makes an important contribution to our knowledge of health in Travellers. I'm hopeful that this will be a springboard for a broader piece of work that could eventually see tangible improvements in the lives of the Traveller community."

Key findings

Conditions like metabolic syndrome, asthma, bronchitis and tuberculosis were 23 times more prevalent in Irish Travellers compared with the background population.

In Travellers under 65 years there was a higher rate of intentional injuries and a lower rate of unintentional injuries compared to the general population.

Travellers over 65 years had higher rates of injury compared to the general population, highlighting their vulnerability.

Unique health considerations of Travellers should be noted. Although numbers were small, some rare conditions were described within this review, such as type 2 hyperprolinemia and leukoencephalopathy with brain calcifications and cysts.

Some findings suggested the possibility of health benefits associated with a distinct gut microbiome linked to the traditional Traveller way of life, although how this has changed with modernization is not fully known.

Common conditions like cancer and arthritis were minimally reported within this review, so more data is needed on the prevalence of these in Travellers.

Implications of these findings

This review indicates a significant health disparity between Travellers and the general population.

Researchers suggest that providers of care for Travellers should be aware of the unique and disproportionate burden of physical health conditions experienced by this group.

Current health care provision needs to be more responsive to the needs of Travellers, and more broadly needs to address prevention strategies and address the social determinants of health such as housing, education, employment and income which are strongly associated with poor health.

Dr. Broderick concluded, "Providers of care for Travellers should be aware of the unique and disproportionate burden of physical health conditions experienced by this group."

"While it was outside the remit of this review to make specific recommendations, it would appear that current health care provision needs to be more responsive to the needs of Travelers. More broadly, the social determinants of health should be targeted such as housing, education, employment and income which are strongly associated with poor health."

"We very much valued the input of a member of the Travelling community, Amy Ward who co-authored this work. Amy provided important direction, ensuring that the Traveller voice was integrated throughout the entire review process, which has enhanced the relevance and real-world impact of this work."

More information: Fiona Kennedy et al, Scoping review on Physical Health Conditions in Irish Travellers (Minceiri), BMJ Open (2023). DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-068876 Journal information: BMJ Open
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There are opportunities for improving the structure of hospital-based sepsis programs to optimize patient outcomes, and new guidance has been released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention called Hospital Sepsis Program Core Elements, according to research published in the August 25 issue of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report.

Raymond B. Dantes, M.D., from Emory University School of Medicine in Atlanta, and colleagues examined the prevalence and characteristics of sepsis programs in acute care hospitals using data from the 2022 National Healthcare Safety Network annual survey.

The researchers found that 73 percent of the 5,221 hospitals reported having a committee that monitors and reviews sepsis care. There was variation in the prevalence of these committees by hospital size, from 53 to 95 percent among hospitals with zero to 25 and >500 beds, respectively. Of all hospitals, 55 percent provided dedicated time for leaders of these committees to manage a program and conduct daily activities; involvement with antibiotic stewardship programs (ASPs) was reported by 55 percent of committees.

"These data highlight opportunities, particularly in smaller hospitals, to improve the early identification of, care for, and outcomes among patients with sepsis in the United States by ensuring that all hospitals have sepsis programs with protected time for program leaders, engagement of medical specialists, and integration with ASPs," the authors write.

More information: Raymund B. Dantes et al, Sepsis Program Activities in Acute Care HospitalsNational Healthcare Safety Network, United States, 2022, MMWR. Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (2023). DOI: 10.15585/mmwr.mm7234a2 Journal information: Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report

Copyright  2023 HealthDay. All rights reserved.
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Persistent high blood pressureor hypertensioncan increase the risk of a number of serious and potentially life-threatening health conditions, such as heart disease, heart attacks and strokes.

The team of researchers were investigating the kidneythe key organ responsible for the development of high blood pressure. The study benefitted from access to the world's largest collection of human kidney samples collected after surgery or kidney biopsy conducted before transplantation, known as the Human Kidney Tissue Resource, at The University of Manchester.

The research team had access to almost 800 kidney samples from this resource and from other research studies.

They extracted both DNA and RNA from each sample and connected information from their analysis, together with data from previous large-scale analyses of blood pressure (called genome-wide association studies), using sophisticated computational methods.

They identified hundreds of kidney genes responsible for changes in blood pressure and found an enzyme called glutamyl aminopeptidase, or ENPEP, to be one of the strongest and most persuasive genes associated with blood pressure.

ENPEP is an integral part of the hormonal system within the body that is essential for regulation of blood pressure. This means the enzyme is an attractive target for developing new medications to treat high blood pressure.

It had been believed reducing levels of ENPEP in the brain could lower blood pressure. However, a recent clinical trial which tested a new drug called Firibastat, the FRESH study, failed to show a significant reduction in blood pressure in patients with hypertension.

The Manchester-led research team instead found that increasing levels of ENPEP in the kidney could have the desired effect of lowering blood pressure.

Study principal investigator and integrative cardiovascular medicine theme co-lead at Manchester BRC, Professor Maciej Tomaszewski, announced the results at the European Society of Cardiology (ESC) Congress in Amsterdam on Sunday 27 August 2023, as part of the Basic and Translational Late-Breaking Science session.

Professor Tomaszewski, who is also chair of cardiovascular medicine at The University of Manchester, and an Honorary Consultant Physician at Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, said, "We need more choices of blood pressure lowering medications for our hypertensive patients.

"While we have several classes of effective medications available, the last new medication approved for management of high blood pressure in the U.K. and many other countries was direct renin inhibitor (aliskiren), and this was approximately 15 years ago. In contrast, patients with other complex cardiometabolic conditions, such as diabetes or coronary artery disease, continue benefiting from new excellent life-saving drugs constantly entering the therapeutic arena.

"Our results show that through a robust connection to blood pressure emerging from our study and a high 'druggability' potential (its ability to be therapeutically modulated by medicines), kidney ENPEP is a new promising target for development of new blood pressure lowering medications."
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An international team of researchers has developed a universal model to relate users' perceptions with their willingness to use care robots. The model can be applied across countries and personal attributes. Credit: Sayuri Suwa from Chiba University

Countries like Japan are experiencing declining birth rates and an aging population. The increased burden of care for this aging population may lead to a shortage of caregivers in a decade's time. Thus, the recruitment and allocation of resources must be planned in advance. Technological interventions in the form of robots that provide home care services to the aged appear to be a promising solution to this problem.

Although care robots are being developed and improved at a rapid pace, their social acceptance has been limited. It is suspected that the ethical issues surrounding the use of such robots may be obstructing the implementation of this technology. Many acceptance models have demonstrated that the ethical perceptions of older people, their families, and professional caregivers regarding care robots can impact their willingness to adopt this technology.

However, there is no universal model that can elucidate the relationship between ethical perceptions and the willingness to use care robots across countries and cultural contexts.

To fill this knowledge gap, a team of international researchers led by Professor Sayuri Suwa from Chiba University, including Dr. Hiroo Ide from the University of Tokyo, Dr. Yumi Akuta from Tokyo Health care University, Dr. Naonori Kodate from University College Dublin, Dr. Jaakko Hallila from Seinajoki University of Applied Sciences, and Dr. Wenwei Yu from Chiba University, among others, conducted a cross-sectional study across Japan, Ireland, and Finland.

The findings of their study were made available online on July 25, 2023 in the journal Archives of Gerontology and Geriatrics.

Sharing the motivation behind the study, Prof. Suwa explains, "Today, in Japan's super-aged society, various care robots, including monitoring cameras, have been developed and marketed to compensate for the shortage of care staff and to alleviate their stress. However, there are no discussions among usersolder people, family caregivers, and care staffand developers regarding the willingness to use care robots, the protection of privacy, and the appropriate use of personal information associated with the use of care robots."

"The desire to improve this situation and to promote appropriate utilization of care robots beyond Japan was the impetus for this research."

The team developed a questionnaire that examined the ethical issues that could affect the willingness to use a care robot across the three countries. The survey was conducted between November 2018 and February 2019 among older people, their family caregivers, and professional caregivers.

This study was also reviewed by multiple ethical committees in all three countries. The researchers analyzed a total of 1,132 responses, which comprised 664 responses from Japan, 208 from Ireland, and 260 from Finland. They found that the willingness to use care robots was highest in Japan (77.1%), followed by Ireland (70.3%), and was lowest in Finland (52.8%).

Next, the researchers developed a conceptual model and evaluated it using statistical methods. From the questionnaire, the researchers included responses to ten items in the model, categorized into four broad domainsacquisition of personal information, use of personal information for medical and long-term care, secondary use of personal information, and participation in research and development. They then improved the model using Akaike's information criterion (AIC).

The model underwent incremental improvements to attain better (smaller) AIC values. The final model was then applied to each country.

Thus, this study demonstrated the successful use of a single universal model that could explain the correlation between ethical perceptions and social implementation of care robots across three countries with different geographies, demographics, cultures, and systems.

Discussing the importance and long-term impact of their study, Prof. Suwa concludes, "From our results, we can infer that social implementation of care robots can be promoted if developers and researchers encourage potential users to participate in the development process, proposed in the form of a co-design and co-production concept. We hope that the process of developing care robots will be improved to contribute to human well-being in a global aging society."

More information: Hiroo Ide et al, Developing a model to explain users' ethical perceptions regarding the use of care robots in home care: A cross-sectional study in Ireland, Finland, and Japan, Archives of Gerontology and Geriatrics (2023). DOI: 10.1016/j.archger.2023.105137

Provided by Chiba University
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Design and mechanism of CVOS sensors, a conceptual scheme of real-time multiaxial strain mapping, and alteration (direction) detection mechanism. Credit: POSTECH

Recently, a Korean company donated a wearable robot, designed to aid patients with limited mobility during their rehabilitation, to a hospital. These patients wear this robot to receive assistance for muscle and joint exercises while performing actions such as walking or sitting. Wearable devices including smartwatches or eyewear that people wear and attached to their skin have the potential to enhance our quality of life, offering a glimmer of hope to some people much like this robotic innovation.

The strain sensors used in these rehabilitative robots analyze data by translating specific physical changes in specific regions into electric signals. Notably flexible, these sensors are pliable and adept at gauging even the most subtle bodily changes as they are made from lightweight materials for ease of attachment to the skin.

However, conventional soft strain sensors often exhibit inadequate durability due to susceptibility to external factors such as temperature and humidity. Furthermore, their complicated fabrication process poses challenges for widespread commercialization.

A research team led by Professor Sung-Min Park from the Department of Convergence IT Engineering and the Department of Mechanical Engineering and Ph.D. candidate Sunguk Hong from the Department of Mechanical Engineering at Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH) has successfully overcome the limitations of these soft strain sensors by integrating computer vision technology into optical sensors. Their research findings were featured in npj Flexible Electronics. Credit: npj Flexible Electronics (2023). DOI: 10.1038/s41528-023-00264-1

The research team developed a sensor technology known as computer vision-based optical strain (CVOS) during their study. Unlike conventional sensors reliant on electrical signals, CVOS sensors employ computer vision and optical sensors to analyze microscale optical patterns, extracting data regarding changes. This approach inherently enhances durability by eliminating elements that compromise sensor functionalities and streamlining fabrication processes, thereby facilitating sensor commercialization.

In contrast to conventional sensors that solely detect biaxial strain, CVOS sensors exhibit the exceptional ability to detect three-axial rotational movements through real-time multiaxial strain mapping. In essence, these sensors enable the precise recognition of intricate and various bodily motions through a single sensor. The research team substantiated this claim through experiments applying CVOS sensors to assistive devices in rehabilitative treatments.

Detection of three-axial shoulder rotation motion detection vial multiaxial strain mapping. Credit: POSTECH

Through integration of an AI-based response correction algorithm that corrects diverse error factors arising during signal detection, the experiment results showed a high level of confidence. Even after undergoing more than 10,000 iterations, these sensors consistently maintained their exceptional performance.

Professor Sung-Min Park who led the research explained, "The CVOS sensors excel in distinguishing body movements across diverse direction and angles, thereby optimizing effective rehabilitative interventions." He further added, "By tailoring design indicators and algorithms to align with specific objectives, CVOS sensors have boundless potential for applications spanning industries."

More information: Sunguk Hong et al, Real-time multiaxial strain mapping using computer vision integrated optical sensors, npj Flexible Electronics (2023). DOI: 10.1038/s41528-023-00264-1
Disparate opinions on homelessness ran rampant at Monday nights Missoula City Council meeting. Public comments ranged from exhortations to ship homeless people out of town to pleas to put a moratorium on law enforcement actions targeting the unhoused in Missoula.

Ultimately, council members passed two measures aimed at the houseless issue: reopening the Johnson Street Community Center and postponing a vote on a permanent urban camping ordinance.

On a 7-2 vote, council opted to wait for a decision that could permanently enshrine urban camping rules in Missoula. The final consideration of the ordinance was moved to Nov. 13 in order for the city to come up with better guidance for unhoused individuals and law enforcement. The current rules, which went into place following an emergency declaration this summer, expire in early September.

Once those rules expire, the city will return to whats currently on the books, which criminalizes sleeping in all city-owned public spaces. According to City Attorney Ryan Sudbury, the city can advise law enforcement to avoid citing people for those rule violations in the meantime.

Mayor Jordan Hess explained that the delay comes after criticism that the proposed rules took a one-size-fits-all-approach, which lacked nuance and made them overly broad.

I think our intention is to create much more clarity, said Hess. We do need to have areas where camping is not permitted and that continues to be the intent. But we intend to be more clear about where those restrictions apply.

Many on council supported the decision to delay the urban camping ordinance vote, although Ward 1 Councilor Heidi West and Ward 6 Councilor Sandra Vasecka voted against postponement.

I really dislike punting this, said West, even though hopefully it will be more comprehensive.

As for public comments, most of the input urged a more lenient approach to urban camping. Multiple commenters wanted a moratorium on police sweeps until the Nov. 13 decision. Public commenter Heather Reel, who used to be homeless, said law enforcement interactions were the scariest part of her experience living on the streets.

They were just trying to chase me out of town, she said. And I was doing nothing wrong and I think that kind of behavior needs to stop. I do not want my children to live in a world where they see its OK to bully and harass people for living in poverty.

In an effort to give homeless individuals a safe place to go, council voted 6-2 with one abstention to reopen the Johnson Street shelter in Ward 6. The Poverello Center, which runs the shelter, anticipates a mid-September opening.

Ward 1 Councilor Jennifer Savage and Ward 6 Councilor Sandra Vasecka cast the opposing votes, and Ward 6 Councilor Kristen Jordan abstained. Jordan said she didnt want to prevent the city from providing shelter, but she was also dismayed by a lack of outreach to the neighborhood where the facility is located.

Mary Medley, a public commenter who lives near the shelter, echoed Jordans critique.

Theres a lot of empathy in this neighborhood, said Medley, but that being said, there also has to be equal distribution.

Councilor Mike Nugent in Ward 4 was also critical of outreach efforts, but after attempting to push back the Johnson Street vote in committee last week, said he wouldnt stand in the way of councils momentum.

Councilor Sierra Farmer in Ward 2 summed up the prevailing sentiment among many council members Monday night.

I do plan on voting for signing the contract (with the Poverello Center), she said, not because I think its a good solution, but because I think its our only solution right now.
Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 Astro Edition

The Galaxy Watch 6 is already the best smartwatch for Android users, but Samsung just upped the style considerably with a new special edition of the wearable.

The Galaxy Watch 6 Astro Edition takes the $429, 47mm Classic version with its rotating bezel, and adds design flair inspired by astrolabes. These ancient astronomical instruments were used to calculate the position of stars in the night sky, in order to navigate and figure out the time.

Nowadays, even basic smartphones can do that for you, of course, so the astrolabe inspiration is mainly aesthetic.

The rotating bezel contains etchings of constellations and celestial bodies, while an exclusive watch face shows a moving galaxy with a moon attached to the second hand. The watch face also comes with a couple of complications  theres a compass on the right, and another to track movements of the sun and moon on the left.

The watch comes with two fabric straps, according to Samsung  but its not clear whether they look different, or are just for sizing purposes.

Its probably all academic anyway: Unless youre reading this in one of a handful of countries in the Middle East and North Africa, then Samsung doesnt want to sell you one.

A regional exclusive

Yes, Samsung has decided that the Galaxy Watch 6 Astro Edition is an exclusive for the MENA region  thats the Middle East and North Africa.

In all, Samsung lists 11 countries getting access to the timepiece: Bahrain, Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Morocco, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Turkey and the United Arab Emirates.

This isnt by chance. In the press release announcing the wearable, Samsung describes the watch as dedicated to the region, as its inspired by MENAs explorers and innovators.

Its a testament and tribute to the Middle Easts innovators and their historical prominence in the fields of mathematics, science and innovation, while simultaneously setting the stage for the regions future pioneers, according to Omar Saheb, Regional Marketing Director at Samsung Electronics MENA.

While Samsung calls it exclusive to the region in its headline, hopefully its a timed one. Its a very stylish wearable, and it would be a shame for the rest of the world not to have access at some point in the future.

If it does, a quick currency conversion suggests that the 350 Jordanian Dirham asking price on Samsungs Levant website is around $500. If it doesnt, hopefully equally cool designs will follow for other regions. Samsung describes the Astro Edition as the first of several limited-edition collections of watches after all, so watch this space.
A water-quality monitoring device worth more than $10,000 turned up missing Aug. 25 from its installation point in the Big Hole River near the Jerry Creek Fishing Access Site.

Separately, reports have surfaced that vehicles and boat trailers owned by fishing guides, and perhaps others, have been tampered with at fishing access sites where theyve been parked.

Lug nuts have been loosened. Hitch pins have been removed. Reports of the incidents have been received by the Beaverhead County Sheriffs Office. Sheriff David Wendt could not be reached for comment Tuesday.

Wade Fellin, an owner of the Big Hole Lodge and a fishing outfitter, said he has fielded reports about tampering from guides who work for the lodge or work elsewhere.

It does seem specific to guides, Fellin said, adding the caveat that it might be happening to other anglers, too.

People are playing a dangerous game, he said. Its one thing to be upset, and its another thing to put human lives at risk.

Fellin is also involved with Save Wild Trout, the nonprofit that hired scientist Kyle Flynn, Ph.D., to conduct water-quality research as one contribution toward understanding why trout populations have been declining in the Jefferson River Basin.

The submerged water-quality monitoring device, known as a sonde, had been anchored on the river bottom by being zip tied to cinder blocks. When Flynn and Fellin went to retrieve the sonde it was gone  as was the data it had collected since Aug. 15.

Save Wild Trouts science team lead has nearly two decades of experience monitoring water quality in Montana and never had a sonde go missing, Fellin said.

Its unfortunate a costly tool went missing now when we are trying to collect valuable data to better understand what is driving the historic decline in wild trout numbers, he said.

Water-quality challenges along the Big Hole River and elsewhere in the Jefferson River Basin often elicit strong feelings. Changes in fishing regulations, such as eliminating the use of treble hooks in some reaches of river, can also stir resentment.

In early August, Gov. Greg Gianforte led a roundtable discussion in Wise River about declining trout numbers. The panel included representatives from the agricultural community, the fishing community, Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks and others.

The ranching community, which tends to zealously guard its water rights for irrigation withdrawals, clashes sometimes with fishing guides and outfitters when river flows drop and water temperatures rise.

No one is speculating in any official way about the motivations driving the vehicle tampering. There were similar incidents last year, Fellin said, that targeted fishing guides. One guide discovered holes had been drilled in his vehicles gas tank.

Its extremely dangerous, puts lives at risk, and its not how our community treats our neighbors or visitors, Fellin said. After speaking to the sheriffs office yesterday, they confirmed they would increase patrols in the area, and remember to check your vehicle and trailer before you leave.

He added that anyone with information about the fate of the sonde should alert Save Wild Trout or authorities. If nothing else, the valuable data might be retrievable, Fellin said.

Meanwhile, he emphasized that healthy rivers in southwest Montana benefit everyone, and it makes sense to embrace rather than hobble the quest for answers to declining populations of trout.
In his seminal book "Rules for Radicals," avowed radical leftist Saul Alinsky famously wrote the playbook for running a Machiavellian political smear campaign: Pick the target, freeze it, personalize it, and polarize it.

Montanas powerful education establishment is following Alinskys playbook to a T as we reach back-to-school season, launching an all-out offensive to block Montanas Community Choice Schools Act in the courts, discourage local communities from creating Choice Schools and deride Montana families seeking these innovative options within the public education system.

As the fate of Montanas Community Choice Schools Act remains in limbo in the courts, Montanans should know that the education establishments smear campaign against Choice Schools is built on a lie intended to polarize the debate with fear and disinformation.

First, some background. This spring, the Montana Legislature finally gave the families of children with unique learning needs some reason to be hopeful. Moms and dads across the state celebrated as HB 562, the Community Choice Schools Act, was signed by Gov. Greg Gianforte. Montana now joins 45 other states that authorize public charter schools (called Choice Schools under Montanas unique charter framework) as options for families. Local communities can now join together and create new student-centered public schools that will have greater flexibility to focus on specific types of learning needs while remaining free and open to all. For instance, one entrepreneurial Billings mom wants to create a Choice School that specializes in educating children like her son who has dyslexia.

The smear campaign began during legislative debate when opponents deliberately and falsely characterized Choice Schools as private schools. For example, the Montana Democratic Party said HB 562 would allow taxpayer dollars to be used to fund private charter schools, undermining our public schools.

This claim that Choice Schools are private schools is intentionally dishonest and clearly wrong. Montanas Choice Schools are by definition independently operated public schools free and open to all. HB 562 also expressly prohibits Choice Schools from operating for-profit or charging tuition. Choice Schools will be under the general supervision of the Board of Public Education (BPE). Whats more, the public status of charter schools is well established in statute and case law nationwide. In fact, SCOTUS just denied hearing further discussion about the alleged private status of charter schools.

Knowing this bogus private schools claim wouldnt fly in a courtroom, earlier this month the education establishments lawyers used a linguistic sleight-of-hand to prop up their lawsuit to block Choice Schools for Montana families. Instead of private schools the crafty lawyers referred to Choice Schools as privatized schools, in an apparent reference to the ability to contract with private vendors for particular school services. But traditional public schools have the same ability to contract with private vendors for services like custodial management and that doesnt make them privatized. This tactic is pure sophistry.

Choice Schools are public schools. When a Choice School is authorized, a Montana community is creating a new public school and expanding the local public education system to better serve students. New Choice Schools wont undermine Montanas public education system; they will strengthen it. Allowing the creation of innovative Choice Schools advances the right to a quality public education guaranteed by Montanas Constitution.

The education establishments big lie about Choice Schools might pass unchallenged by local media, but it wont survive scrutiny in the courts and it certainly wont fool Montana families who have been hoping and praying for access to the same quality public education options available in 45 other states.
DEAR READERS: Its easier to find a job if you have a job is something Ive heard for a very long time. When I was speaking with someone who is dissatisfied with her current position, that adage came to mind and made me wonder: Does it hold in the current employment environment?

Yes, that adage still holds true, says Archie Payne, president of CalTek Staffing, a recruiting firm that connects companies with top talent in IT and engineering.

The reasons? First, says Payne, is that it impacts how employers view you.

Being currently employed is seen as a sign youre at least reliable and dependable enough to currently have employment, he explains. Even though there are many reasons for people to have employment gaps, its still seen as a sign by many employers as a sign of issues on the applicants part, and thats something you dont need to worry about if youre currently employed.

Rachel Patch, an HR generalist with CYB Human Resources, who manages all clients HR needs, echoes Payne and notes that having a job distinguishes you from unemployed job seekers.

Fewer and fewer companies are asking, What have you done since your last position? and Why did you leave your last role? Patch says. But these are still common questions that clients request I add during interviews, especially with candidates who are not currently employed.

And while she says her clients wouldnt deny an interview solely because an individual is not currently employed, it is a data point they take into account.

If there are two equal candidates and one is currently employed and the other is not, companies will almost always find some reason to like the candidate who is employed more, she says.

Another factor, according to Payne, is that employed people typically are more tuned in to their industry and the employment landscape.

That means youll be more likely to hear about opportunities and have ready sources of potential references, both of which can help you to land a job faster, he notes.

Of course, being actively employed can make job hunting a bit more challenging  for example, full-time workers have less spare time to write numerous cover letters and fill out applications, notes Josh Weiss, founder and CEO of Reggie. But he confirms that having a job while looking for one has definite advantages.

The main thing that separates job hunting for those currently employed versus those that aren't working is the urgency, Weiss says. If you're out of work and need income fast, you may be more inclined to seek out lower-level positions or take roles outside your industry. While this isn't inherently a problem, it has the potential to appear disruptive on your resume when you look for future roles.

Carter Seuthe, CEO of My Credit Summit, has been in both positions  and believes that having a job while looking for a new one is the better option.

I have experienced both scenarios  job hunting while I was unemployed and increasingly desperate for any position, and job hunting while already working in a stable job, Seuthe recalls. The latter experience gave me so much more power over which positions I considered and in the eventual job I did take. It meant I could approach job hunting with more focus and discretion rather than searching for the first offer I could negotiate so I could have a reliable paycheck again.
Muscatine residents had a chance to see LST-324 World War II Memorial Ship, which lives on as a memorial to those who served on it and meaningful symbol for veterans.

Thanks to its crews efforts, the ship is able to sail into different towns, giving people a chance to see the ship up close and learn about its history. Although Muscatine wasnt one of its scheduled stops, residents did have the opportunity to see it up close and when it passed through Lock and Dam 16 on Sunday, August 27.

Jeff Osborne, Second Ward Representative for the Muscatine City Council, spent a majority of this past weekend posting updates of the ships coordinates for those who were interested in seeing it. Despite not having a personal connection to the ship, Osborne emphasized how important it was for him to promote Muscatine as a place to be, which includes promoting any and all of its special occasions.

A lot of folks say that there isnt anything to do here, so Im an administrator on a Facebook group where our purpose is to promote all of the things there is to do here in Muscatine," he said. "Were in the center of everything.

He also noted Muscatines connection to the Mississippi River has allowed for similar big events and visits from boats, such as when the American Duchess landed in Muscatine last summer.

Theres just a lot of interest in this community Theres almost a whole sub-culture developing around the boat traffic that goes by, and its kind of fun to see that," Osborne said.

The LST-325 is the last fully operational WWII Landing Ship, Tank of its kind, first being commissioned on February 1, 1943. It served throughout the war, including sailing to the beaches of Normandy to help with the D-Day campaign.

Following D-Day on Dec 28, 1944, the next major accomplishment for the LST-325 was when it helped rescue 700 men from the S.S. Empire Javelin after it had been torpedoed. Many missions later, the ship was eventually decommissioned in 1999 before being acquired by the USS Ship Memorial in 2000.

Resident Marilyn Andress shared that she had seen it as a connection to her father, who had served in World War II and had been on a ship similar to the LST-325. When she first heard about the ship coming through Muscatine, she and her family had immediately gone to try and catch it.

We were all yelling thank you for your service to the ships crew, Andress said. That was a really nice moment, and I was so happy to see so many young people there who had brought their kids out to see it, and hopefully they talked to their children about the significance of that ship.

Currently, the LST-325 is still making its way up the Mississippi towards its next scheduled stop. Over the next few weeks, citizens will have the chance to see the ship up close and in-person while at its three tour locations. From August 31 to September 4, itll be at Riverside Park in La Crosse (WI). Then, from Sept. 7 to Sept. 12, itll be docked at the Mississippi River Walk in Dubuque (IA). Finally, the ship is scheduled to be docked at the Hannibal Riverfront in Hannibal (MO) from Sept. 15 to Sept. 18.

For more information on the LST-325 Memorial or on the locations that it will be at for tours, residents can go to https://www.lstmemorial.org/cruise.

US Navy deploys more chaplains for suicide prevention
When Cristian Dubon Solis was getting ready to graduate from a Boston high school in 2020, he started planning to apply to college. It was only then he realized that as an immigrant lacking permanent legal status, he wouldnt qualify for in-state tuition at Massachusetts state universities, nor for state-sponsored financial aid.

With no way to afford a four-year school to pursue his dream major, environmental science, he put those plans on hold.

I took a few gap years afterward, said the now 21-year-old from East Boston, a community where about half the residents are Hispanic or Latino. Solis now advocates for young immigrants as a student coordinator for a nonprofit group called SIM, which formerly stood for Student Immigration Movement.

One of four siblings, Solis came to the United States from El Salvador at age 3. His three younger sisters were born in the U.S., he said. Family and friends didnt discuss their immigration status, so he never heard about the tuition restrictions.

In families of the immigrant community its very hush-hush, you dont talk about it, he said. Its hard to figure out what options I had or didnt have, because nobody talked about it.

But now Solis is about to apply to colleges in Massachusetts, including UMass-Boston.

Democratic Gov. Maura Healey signed the state budget this month with a provision that will allow certain immigrants without permanent legal status  those who have attended high school in Massachusetts for at least three years or who have earned a GED certificate  to pay in-state tuition rates at public universities. The law takes effect immediately.

The idea has bipartisan appeal, with some conservative supporters this year saying it helps reduce workforce shortages and boost tax revenue.

In June, Nevada Republican Gov. Joe Lombardo enacted a law allowing immigrants who have been granted status under the federal Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals Act, or DACA program, to qualify for in-state tuition after living in Nevada for 12 months. That action expanded on a law that allowed high school graduates lacking permanent legal status to do so.

And in Florida this year, state lawmakers rejected a proposal from Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis to scrap in-state tuition for students without permanent legal status. He had wanted to include it in a bill to tighten restrictions on immigrants living in the country illegally.

But critics of the in-state tuition changes argue states are facing an influx of immigrants and already are stretched thin to pay for needed housing and services. Missouri Gov. Mike Parson, a Republican, in June signed a 2024 budget that included a boost for higher education funding but prohibited students without permanent legal status from getting in-state tuition or state scholarships.

Massachusetts became the 24th state to grant immigrants without legal status access to in-state tuition, according to the Higher Ed Immigration Portal, a website run by a coalition of 18 higher education and immigration organizations to provide information and resources to immigrant students.

In-state tuition is generally thousands of dollars less per year than for out-of-state students.

Seventeen of the states granting in-state tuition also allow the students to be eligible for financial aid, as does the District of Columbia, according to the Higher Ed Immigration Portal.

Four states  Delaware, Iowa, Michigan and Pennsylvania  restrict the number of public universities at which immigrants without permanent legal status are eligible for in-state tuition, according to the portal.

Five states  Arkansas, Idaho, Maine, Mississippi and Ohio  provide that tuition discount only to young immigrants who have DACA status. The Obama-era DACA program allows immigrants who were brought to the United States as children and who meet other qualifications to avoid deportation and obtain work permits. New applications for the program are on hold while long-running court battles play out.

By contrast, nine states specifically block access to in-state tuition or state financial aid for residents lacking permanent legal status, the immigration portal found. They are Indiana, Missouri, New Hampshire, North Carolina, Tennessee, Wisconsin, Alabama, Georgia and South Carolina.

Opponents of extending in-state tuition argue that scarce state resources should not be spent on immigrants living in the country illegally, particularly when states are dealing with a wave of new immigrant families that strains the states safety net.

But advocates for granting in-state tuition say the state must educate young immigrants if it wants to make up for the number of residents who are leaving the state and taking tax revenue with them.

Miriam Feldblum, co-founder and executive director of the Presidents Alliance on Higher Education and Immigration, a group comprised of university leaders, said consideration of in-state tuition for students without legal status has become increasingly important in light of the U.S. Supreme Courts recent decision to end affirmative action programs on campuses.

As colleges and universities look at how to attract diverse populations, it is incumbent upon all institutions to look at immigrant students, she said.

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The Ministry of East African Community (EAC), Arid and Semi-Arid Lands (ASALs), and Regional Development convened a significant event at the Kenya School of Government on Monday to mark the signing of the 2023/2024 Performance Contract.

The ceremony was graced by Cabinet Secretary (CS) of the Ministry, Rebecca Miano, Principal Secretaries (PSs), Heads of Departments, and programme leaders.

CS Miano expressed optimism and determination that the ministry will excel in the coming year, noting that this marked the 20th annual cycle of Public Sector Performance Contracts, reflecting on the insights gained and strides made across the past two decades.

She recalled the ministrys commendable ranking as third overall among ministries during the 2019/2020 Performance Contracting cycle and emphasised the importance of maintaining and surpassing such high standards.

Citing an African proverb that emphasises the gradual and steady path to success, Miano urged everyone present to recognise that excellence requires time, effort, and expertise.

She stressed the need to consistently improve tools and approaches for achieving targets and delivering on commitments.

Acknowledging the cascading of the Performance Contract from the President to the Cabinet Secretaries and further to the Principal Secretaries, the ceremony aimed to solidify the commitment of all levels of leadership to achieving the outlined targets.

The cascading process ensures that responsibilities are shared, accountability is maintained, and the delivery of promises is monitored at all levels, noted CS.

She also urged collaboration with relevant institutions, both internal and external, to facilitate the effective implementation of projects and programmes.

She also underscored the importance of breaking down silos and embracing a collaborative mindset to maximise the impact of initiatives.

The 2023/24 Performance Contract is an integral part of the Fourth Medium Term Plan of Kenya Vision 2030, covering the period from 2023 to 2027. Aligned with the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA), this contract emphasises inclusive growth through targeted investments in key sectors such as agriculture, micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSME), housing, healthcare, and digital infrastructure. The BETA approach aims to improve living standards, eradicate hunger, generate employment, and foster economic growth.
Wycliffe Oparanya has alleged that the Kenya Kwanza administration is employing corruption accusations against him as a means to compel him to change his political loyalty from Azimio leader Raila Odinga to President William Ruto.

According to the former Kakamega Governor, the government asked him to switch political allegiance during a raid carried out by officials from the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission at his homes in Nairobi and Kakamega last week.

Speaking in Vihiga County, Oparanya claimed that President William Ruto wants him to play a pivotal role as his representative in the politically influential Western Kenya region. Oparanya stated that he was urged to help in promoting President Ruto within the region in anticipation of the 2027 elections.

No amount of intimidation will make me abandon my loyalty to Raila Odinga, Kenya Kwanza wants me to join the government and abandon the opposition. Ruto has Mudavadi and Wetangula. Let him stick to them and leave me alone, Oparanya said.

He suggested that the governments actions of subjecting him to arrests and accusations of corruption are a form of harassment, driven by this political agenda.

Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi reiterated Oparanyas sentiments.

Mr. Osotsi called on President Ruto to stop his efforts to secure political backing from the ODM deputy leader and rather concentrate on collaborating with Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi and National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula.

I am the chairperson of the Public Accounts and Investments Committee in the Senate and I can say that I have gone through the audit reports and Oparanya is clean. So, anyone who wants information on how Oparanya used the funds should come and ask me. Those who wanted to arrest him have other motives and we want to tell them that we will remain steadfast in ODM, said Osotsi.
That Enzo, he always has some food in his mouth, Chef Andrea Cavaleri said.

He was referring to an Italian boy devouring Cavaleris soft Sicilian almond cookies at a recent Farmers Market. Cavaleri sells these and a wide array of other Sicilian delicacies weekly at the Napa Farmers Market. His main gig, however, is cooking as a private event chef throughout the Napa Valley.

Originally from Palermo, Sicily, Cavaleri said he fell in love with food at an early age.

I saw my momma, grandmomma, sister, always cooking, he said. I grew up on a market street; I lived on the second floor, and the first floor was a mom-and-pop restaurant. I asked them to do anything I could to be around the food. When I was 11, I started doing little jobs, making bread, baking, butcher, chopping, slicing.

Once he turned 13, he began attending Scuola Alberghiera, a culinary school in his hometown of Palermo. By the time Cavaleri was 17 years old, he was a chef of two ships, one a cruise ship and the other a merchant ship.

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Back then, I spent every Sunday from April to November cooking in Barcelona and every Monday in Palma de Mallorca. I was both cooking and learning other techniques and different cultures, teaching them what I knew in a culinary exchange. I wanted to learn everything I could.

He followed this enriching experience by spending three years in the Italian Navy, where he was again a chef of a large ship.

I cooked for 125 officers and troops. Everything was from scratch, including making fresh bread. Cavaleri continued, We served a traditional Italian breakfast consisting of croissants, brioche, jam and a frittata. For lunch, pasta and entree like meat or fish with a veggie and starch and a dessert like a tiramisu or fruit tart. This was then repeated for dinner.

In 1986 after serving in the Navy, he opened his own restaurant in Palermo.

I was young and full of energy; it was the right time to do so," said Cavaleri. He sold the business within three years.

He then honed his culinary craft for the next 18 years working in various restaurants throughout metropolitan cities in England.

After his lengthy stay, he returned to Italy. He was a chef in Florence and Tuscany before again going abroad to Dusseldorf and the French side of Corsica and finally landing in the U.S.

Once stateside, he was a chef in Italian restaurants in San Rafael, Stockton, Palo Alto and San Francisco.

After traveling the world and navigating the 2008-2010 recession, Cavaleri said, I dont want to work for anybody anymore. He then moved to Petaluma and began selling his Sicilian meals at St. Helena and Napa farmers markets.

Today, he prepares his foods at a commissary in Gilroy with only fresh ingredients and then sells exclusively at the Napa Farmers Market weekly. He has been selling there for four years.

He said his most popular dishes are meatballs, lasagna, soups, and cookies. And that the Sicilian pesto is also popular because of its unique taste. I sell out of these dishes fast.

His private chef business is also quite popular. Cavaleri said, Its full-service, including cleaning. Whatever the occasion, I discuss the menu with the client, and it can be done right in their house.

Typically his house calls range from 10 to 12 people, where 20 is the max. However, Cavaleri also caters for larger events, such as a 60-person wedding this coming April.

The per-plate cost is entirely dependent on the type of cuisine desired. Lobster is different than pizza, Cavaleri noted. The meals usually include appetizers, salads, a main dish and dessert.

Cavaleri said another reason for the success of his business is the eclectic range of cuisine he covers. I make Thai, English, American, Italian, French, Spanish and curry dishes.

He attributes his broad spectrum of culinary capabilities to where he grew up. Sicilian cuisine stems from a multicultural past where previous ruling countries left behind a piece of their heritage.

Sicilian food is very diverse due to various invasions  Arab, Roman, Greek, Spanish, African, Cavaleri added; he also noted his travels abroad have helped tremendously.

Cavaleri is happy cooking an expansive range of foods with his chef business and selling his Sicilian specialties at the farmers market. He said he would not open another restaurant.

The last place I had was, as I said, the last place. Times are changing, people changing, products changing, and so many normal cooks think they are super chefs. No, its not my world anymore, and Im very happy with what I do.

He also enjoys the flexibility and being able to connect with people.

Its very satisfying, like enjoying what you do and having time for a laugh and a drink while playing with the children, said Cavaleri. He believes this isnt possible while running a restaurant because the restaurant business is a very demanding lover, who wants all the attention and leaves no space for the rest.

Cavaleri is also against retailing his food at specialty grocery stores because the ingredients I use are all fresh, often I buy them at the farmers market itself, the shelf life wouldnt work in retail. He did say he is open to and enjoys consulting for businesses.

In a town where food is king, he doesnt go out to eat often. He said, Like Enzo, I eat everything, and I like to cook everything. Sometimes Ill go out for things I dont make for only for myself, like sushi or Indian.

Through all of his global experiences, food has always been his passion.

Yes, you like the people but above all, you are in passionate love with the job! If you dont love what you do, change the channel," he said.

Cavaleri can be found at the Napa Farmers Market on Saturdays from 8 a.m. to noon.
A vote this week may pave the way for Mayacamas Charter Middle School to secure its future in Napa.

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On Wednesday, the Napa County Office of Education board will hold a special meeting to hear the Napa Foundation for Options in Educations petition for a countywide benefit charter petition, which the foundation plans to use to operate Mayacamas Charter Middle School.

The lengthy legal battle to launch Mayacamas began nearly two years ago, when the foundation first applied for a charter with the Napa Valley Unified School District to open a grade 6-8 academy inside the former St. John the Baptist Catholic School in downtown Napa.

That charter was denied by NVUSD trustees in December 2021, and again by the Napa County Office of Education board in March 2022. The foundation then appealed to the California State Board of Education, which overturned those vetoes and granted Mayacamas a charter last September.

However, the states approval was not the last word. Due to changing charter-granting law in California, NVUSD leaders believe the state board overreached its newly limited advisory power to grant school charters. The district filed a lawsuit in Sacramento County Superior Court seeking to void the states charter approval.

In June, the court did just that. Since then, the Napa Foundation has appealed that trial court decision, and while the case makes its way to appeals court, the decision reversing the charter approval is stayed. As such, Mayacamas was able to open its doors for the 2023-24 school year.

The case so far

On Aug. 16, the school welcomed its first students  which its estimated to total about 70  along with seven staff members. Leading the staff as head of school is Cathy Adams, who held a similar title at River Middle School, a former charter academy within NVUSD.

The school has been able to open under its original districtwide charter despite the superior courts decision due to a court stay, which prevents the enforcement of a trial court decision in a case that has been appealed while it awaits a new hearing. NVUSD attempted to prevent this, requesting a prohibition or lift of stay, which would allow the current decision to be enforced pending appeal, but Judge Shelleyanne Chang denied that request on Wednesday, Aug. 23.

A minute order issued by the court last week states that it declines to change the current status quo of (the Napa Foundation for Options in Education) opening a charter school and currently operating for the 2023-2024 school year while the parties await an appeal hearing.

While appealing the districtwide charter decision, the school has also applied for a different type of charter  a countywide benefits charter  which could be issued as soon as this Wednesday and would negate the need for NVUSD approval.

Petitioners Lauren Daley and Jolene Yee submitted a countywide charter application to NCOE on Aug. 11, and three days later, the departments senior staff released their initial review and findings based on the report. That same day, NCOE set a special board meeting for a public hearing and vote on Aug. 30.

The report suggests that pending clarification of various fiscal and programming matters in a memorandum of understanding between the foundation and Napa County, NCOEs board should approve a countywide charter.

Debating Mayacamas impact

Ahead of Wednesdays hearing, both those supporting and opposing a charter for Mayacamas have been preparing for what is likely to be a lengthy public debate.

Following NCOE staffs initial review of the countywide charter application, NVUSD released a letter from Superintendent Rosanna Mucetti. The note explained the districts opposition to Mayacamas opening, and urged families to show up at the hearing and speak out about the potential drawbacks of opening the new school.

An FAQ sheet posted by NVUSD explains that the district is concerned because of the implications a countywide charter could have on (its) long-term financial projections.

When Mucetti took the helm in the fall of 2018, the Napa school district had been struggling financially. A year before, the districts reserves hit a low of 3.65% of the budget, putting it at risk of a state takeover of its finances had reserves fallen below 3%.

In the years since, the district has recovered. In its most recent interim budget report from April 2022, NVUSD projected it would boost reserves to 24.59% of its budget by the end of the 2022-23 year.

However, NVUSD attributes much of this success to hard decisions it had to make in the past five years, including closing two charter middle schools in Napa  Harvest and River. It believes the financial impact on existing district schools from losing per-pupil funding from the state if students choose to enroll at Mayacamas, while it is already seeing enrollment declines, will be devastating to the district.

This financial impact was a large part of both the districts and countys denials of the original charter.

But the Napa Foundation disputes forecasts of financial harm to Napa public schools. Mayacamas backers stance is that a school 1/50th or 1/80th of the size of NVUSD is unable to to financially devastate the district.

Barbara Nemko, the NCOE superintendent, agrees, saying that the operation of Mayacamas poses no meaningful harm or hardship to the Districts continued operations for the coming school year, according to a declaration filed with the Sacramento Superior Court earlier this month.

Differences between the charters

The same NCOE board that will hear Wednesdays petition previously vetoed the Napa Foundations districtwide charter on a 5-2 vote. But countywide charters are different, as they are operated on the county level and serve multiple school districts. The new charter application states that the new iteration of Mayacamas, called Mayacamas Countywide Middle School, would operate in the territories of both NVUSD and Howell Mountain Elementary School District.

Howell Mountain is a single-school district serving about 90 students in Angwin, an unincorporated region of Napa County north of St. Helena. One of the main differences between the Napa Foundations districtwide and countywide charter applications is the addition of a second school site in the Howell Mountain districts area, at Pacific Union College in Angwin.

During the schools first three academic years, Mayacamas countywide petition states that students will attend special three- to five-day residencies at this site, where they will work with teachers as well as PUC faculty and students on arts-based learning projects. The petition says that this program serves multiple purposes that could not be achieved in a single location.

Beginning in its fourth year of 2026-27, Mayacamas plans to open a second full-time school site at PUC. Presumably, students living closer to Angwin will primarily attend school there, but the petition states that the residency program will continue for Napa-campus students as well.

What to expect Wednesday

During Wednesdays meeting, NCOE Superintendent Nemko will give a statement, followed by a presentation explaining the countywide charter petition process. Then the public hearing will begin.

First the NCOE staff will present its findings of the petition, followed by a presentation from the petitioners, Daley and Yee. Later, board members will have time to ask questions to both the staff and petitioners, followed by time for public comment.

Afterward, the board will deliberate and decide whether to grant or deny the petition. Unlike for a districtwide charter decision, which has stricter denial guidelines, the board can choose to deny a countywide charter petition for any reason its members find justifies the denial of the petition, according to Education Code 47605.6. The decision made by the board is also final, not subject to appeal.

For more information about the meeting, visit NCOEs website at napacoe.org.

Photos: Schools reopen in Napa for 2023-24 school year
The saga surrounding a group of mysterious investors who have spent more than $800 million to buy up thousands of acres of farmland in rural Solano County has gripped Bay Area residents, local politicians and federal government agencies. Last week, The New York Times, San Francisco Chronicle and other media outlets reported that the investors were revealed to be a group of Silicon Valley notables who seem to be gearing up to build a new city.

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Here is what is known about the effort, according to Chronicle reporting:

What and where is the project being envisioned?

The company behind the land purchases, Flannery Associates, has bought a portfolio of farmland consisting of at least 230 parcels and 40,000 acres in Solano County over the past five years. The properties are currently zoned for agriculture in unincorporated parts of the county.

According to a poll sent to Solano County residents last week, the "new city," which is an area nearly the size of two San Franciscos, would be developed between Fairfield and Rio Vista in southeast Solano County. A poll sent to area residents suggested it might include tens of thousands of homes and a large solar energy farm.

The land includes parcels partially surrounding Travis Air Force Base, which officials say handles more cargo and passengers than any other military air terminal in the United States. About 400 buildings and 1,300 military family housing units are on the 6,455-acre base.

A map by the Chronicle's data team shows that Flannery Associates LLC has been listed as the owner of at least 230 properties in Solano County, according to property records obtained in July.

Who is behind the effort?

Flannery Associates' creator is Jan Sramek, a former Goldman Sachs trader. Sramek outlined his ideas for converting the area of farmland between Fairfield and Rio Vista into a vibrant community with public transportation, clean energy and a mass of new residents in a 2017 pitch, which was circulated to a coterie of other Silicon Valley power players.

Other investors were recently revealed to be Michael Moritz, a billionaire venture capitalist and backer of the San Francisco Standard news website; LinkedIn co-founder Reid Hoffman; Atlantic owner Laurene Powell Jobs, widow of Apple co-founder Steve Jobs; Andreessen Horowitz, a venture capital firm in Menlo Park; Stripe co-founders Patrick and John Collison; and investors Daniel Gross and Nat Friedman, who is the co-founder of California YIMBY, a pro-housing advocacy group.

What has happened so far?

Flannery has been buying parcels of land from local farmers, often for three to five times appraised value. But officials and locals say the transactions have been divisive in the community, with one rancher referring to it as a "hostile takeover."

The company has accused the ranchers of colluding to force prices even higher. In May, Flannery sued a group of ranchers in U.S. District Court in Sacramento, accusing them of an "illegal price-fixing conspiracy" that caused it to spend $170 million in "overpayment for properties." The lawsuit seeks $510 million in damages.

What has been the reaction from Travis Air Force Base?

Four years ago, commanders at Travis began raising concerns about the growing cluster of land being purchased by "an unknown entity," according to U.S. Rep. John Garamendi, D-Fairfield. Any activity near the base could disrupt military operations and movements there, he said, which currently include C-17s and C-5s being loaded with munitions for Ukraine.

Solano County already has zoning requirements that restrict wind and solar farms within miles of the base, so radar won't be disrupted.

What has been the reaction from locals and elected officials?

Garamendi and Rep. Mike Thompson, D-St. Helena, who represent the area where the land was purchased, have been vocal about their opposition to Flannery's plans. Both congressmen said they have received classified briefings from the FBI and the Treasury Department on the land purchases, but they had otherwise been unable to get information about who was behind the group.

Thompson and Garamendi said that in addition to military security concerns, they worry for the future of family farmers who have increasingly been displaced or even sued through what Garamendi called the group's "strong-arm mobster tactics" to purchase the land.

Local officials said Flannery until recently made no effort to communicate with them, choosing instead to advertise their plans for the new "city"  which Flannery hopes to get on next year's ballot  to Solano County residents.

But the plan also has supporters, including Matt Regan, senior vice president of public policy for the Bay Area Council, who applauded it as a large-scale private effort to tackle the region's housing shortage.

Where does the process stand now?

The project will require support from local and federal lawmakers to get off the ground, as well as voter initiatives. Flannery advertised to Solano County residents that it hopes to get the plans for the city on next year's ballot.

Local politicians said they expect to meet with Flannery representatives in the coming days.

When could this city actually be created? What major hurdles would it face?

The project is by no means a sure bet. If it gets built, it could take decades. For comparison, the greater Bay Area's newest city, Mountain House in San Joaquin County, took 20 years to build  and with 21,000 residents, it is one-tenth the size of the development envisioned in Solano County.

Although the real estate portfolio assembled by Flannery is one of the biggest in the Bay Area and is backed by some of the world's savviest investors, land-use politics in California are notoriously fraught. It could meet stiff resistance from anti-growth activists, environmentalists and local politicians and voters.

Solano County residents have consistently voted to allow development in cities including Dixon, Vallejo, Fairfield and Rio Vista  but not in rural, unincorporated areas. That policy, laid out in the voter-approved Orderly Growth Initiative, seeks to protect conservation and agriculture uses. Current laws also prohibit creating new cities on land "within the sphere of influence" of existing communities.

And a myriad of questions surround the project, including where its water will come from, how developers would address the area's risk for flooding and extreme heat due to climate change, the impacts to the state's agriculture distribution chain, and transportation concerns in an area currently serviced by a two-lane highway.

Photos: Rural towns pile on perks to woo California's remote workers
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) of Armenia issued a statement on the abduction of persons being transported from Nagorno-Karabakh to Armenia. The statement reads as follows:

Today, on August 28, at the illegal checkpoint in the Lachin corridor, residents of Nagorno-Karabakh Alen Sargsyan, Vahe Hovsepyan and Levon Grigoryan were abducted by Azerbaijans law enforcement agencies. The transportation was agreed in advance and was carried out accompanied by the Russian peacekeeping forces, which, in accordance with point 6 of the Trilateral Statement of November 9, 2020, were obliged to monitor the uninterrupted connection between Armenia and Nagorno-Karabakh through the Lachin corridor. These people were going to Armenia to continue their studies/education.

Azerbaijans step, which follows the abduction of 68-year-old Vagif Khachatryan on July 29, who was being transported to Armenia for immediate medical assistance, accompanied by the International Committee of the Red Cross, is a gross violation of the Trilateral Statement of November 9, 2020, legally binding Orders of the UN International Court of Justice and open contempt for the unequivocal and targeted calls of the international community, including voiced by members of the UN Security Council.

These incidents that took place under various false pretexts cause reasonable concerns that Azerbaijan is openly planning to subject the entire population of Nagorno-Karabakh to collective punishment, who during the 90s of the previous century and in 2020 faced the large-scale aggression unleashed by Azerbaijan and had to defend their right to peaceful life in their homeland.

This policy of mass deprivation of all fundamental rights of the entire population of Nagorno-Karabakh regardless of age, gender and health status as well as starvation, blockade of the medical supplies, essential goods, gas and electricity, targeting civilians by snipers and terrorizing the entire population by abductions, blockade of the Lachin corridor shows the real intention of the Azerbaijani leadership by all means to avoid dialogue with Nagorno-Karabakh and instead continue its policy of ethnic cleansing. Instead of supporting the steps to establish peace and stability in the region, Azerbaijan has put all its efforts into failing them.

Prevention of mass atrocities with the use of all available tools is the direct obligation of all actors who can have influence on the situation and, in general, of the civilized world.
ReA15: 300 animation films, 30 guests from 40 countries, around 500 audience; Armenia international festival summed up

Around 12kg narcotics attempted to be smuggled into Armenia from Iran

Armenia finance minister: Considerable part of 2.6 billion to be provided by EU is loan

Armenia official: We will not increase pensions, minimum wages in 2024

Armenia finance minister: National debt of more than $10 billion is safe

Pashinyan: Armenia government expects 7% economic growth in 2023

COAF secures 10M grant to transform education in Armenia's Syunik Province

RFE/RL: US supports EU monitoring mission in Armenia, embassy says

Hurricane Otis kills at least 48 people in Mexico

$135M to be allocated for needs of those forcibly displaced from Karabakh, Armenia PM says

Armenia nationals can now open bank accounts in Russia in simplified manner

Armenia MFA former spox shares video of Russian peacekeepers withdrawal from Karabakh

202-million-year-old dragonfly fossil discovered in UK

Armenia premier: I hope arrangements for opening border with Turkey will be implemented in near future

Pashinyan: Current world orders collapse is serious threat to Armenia

Armenia labor, social affairs minister is in Iran, memorandum to be signed on highly qualified workforce exchange

Armenia PM: 3 main principles of signing peace treaty with Azerbaijan have been agreed upon

Armenia defense minister attends Beijing Xiangshan Forum opening ceremony in China (PHOTOS)

Biden, Netanyahu discuss ongoing Israeli airstrikes in Gaza

Arab, Muslim users of social media unhappy with ongoing supply of oil from Azerbaijan to Israel

Attempts are being made to destabilize situation in Russias Dagestan from outside, leader Melikov says

20 people injured, 2 in critical condition after mass riots at Russias Makhachkala airport

Kamala Harris: US has no plans of sending combat troops to Israel, Gaza

Russia researchers develop water evaluation system using smartphones

Russias Makhachkala airport closed until November 6

France releases city electric cars that can be driven without driver's license

Thugs attack bus carrying women, children in Russias Makhachkala

Anti-Israel protest in Russias Dagestan, crowd storms into Makhachkala airport

Slovenia donates 120,000, through Red Cross, to forcibly displaced people from Karabakh

Overall 3342 children died in Gaza since start of war

Israel bombs areas near Al-Quds Hospital in Gaza

Palestinian Red Crescent: Israel demands evacuation of Gaza hospital

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Azerbaijani Defense Minister also visits China

Israeli airstrikes on two houses in Gaza kill 13 civilians

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UN Secretary General criticizes Israel again

Building of Jewish cultural center is set on fire in Russia

UN Security Council to hold emergency meeting

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Armenian Defence Minister leaves for China

Forcibly displaced teachers from Artsakh can continue work in Armenia

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Israeli PM deletes controversial post from social media, apologizes

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Armenia Security Council Secretary meets assistants to US Secretary of State, France President

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At the moment, there is a tense situation in front of the Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh) National Assembly (NA), Arshak Abrahamyan, a founding member of the public movement Artsakh Security Development Front, reports on Facebook.

Also, Abrahamyan posted an attached video from the Renaissance Square of the capital Stepanakert, in which it can be seen that the police have formed a wall in several rows at the entrance of the NA building.

A special meeting is being held in the Artsakh NA, with the participation of Artsakh President Arayik Harutyunyan, regarding the events taking place in Artsakh. Numerous people of Artsakh have assembled at the Renaissance Square and are waiting to see what will be decided after the meeting.

A protest was staged also outside the Russian embassy in Armenia. In support of Artsakh, the demonstrators are raising their voice of protest in front of the embassy and, also, they have decided to spend the night there.

Azerbaijanis on Monday abducted three young Artsakh residents from the checkpoint illegally set up by Azerbaijanis in the Lachin corridor. It is also known that these young men were detained by using brute force.
Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh) President Arayik Harutyunyan presented the results of the discussion to those gathered at Renaissance Square of the capital Stepanakert after more than six hours of consultation in the National Assembly (NA).

He noted that three matters were discussed: the fate of the three Artsakh youths who were abducted Monday from the illegal Azerbaijani checkpoint on the Lachin corridor; the issue of bread, the need to reopen the Lachin corridor; and his possible resignation in the coming days.

"Hunger, lack of everything, every third case of death [in Artsakh] is due to malnutrition, our pregnant women lose their unborn children. Why are we late? You can insult me, criticize me, but I want you to be forgiving. We have reached this situation because we believed in everyone: the superpowers, the UN," said Harutyunyan.

He added that they could not reach a joint decision as a result of the six-hour long discussion in the Artsakh NA, but he, as the President of Artsakh, should inform that the bread problem in Artsakh will be resolved in a few days.

"The matter of my remaining in the position of President was also discussed. Tomorrow, the next day, we will decide, with a narrower composition, if it is necessary for me to resign," Arayik Harutyunyan said.
Azerbaijani media report about sending of "humanitarian aid" to Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh).

The Azerbaijan Red Crescent Society "is sending humanitarian aid to ethnic Armenians living in Karabakh," Haqqin.az reported.

Chairman of the Azerbaijan Red Crescent Society, MP Novruz Aslan said that two such vehicles were sent from Azerbaijani capital Baku. According to him, this convoy with "humanitarian goods" will move along the road passing through Akna (Aghdam) city.

"At the initial phase, it is planned to deliver 40 tons of flour products. Of course, accessories, tents, and technical means for the activities of our employees will also be provided. We will carefully follow the processes taking place there. I believe that this step will be positively accepted by the public, the international community, and the ethnic Armenian population living in Khankendi [i.e., Artsakh capital Stepanakert]," said Aslan.

He added that "if necessary, [humanitarian] aid can be sent again."

In the meantime, Azerbaijan remains deaf to the calls to unblock the Lachin corridor.
Minister of Foreign Affairs of Armenia Ararat Mirzoyan on Monday met with Tanja Fajon, Vice-President and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Slovenia. The meeting took place on the sidelines of the Bled Strategic Forum in Slovenia, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Armenia informs Armenian News-NEWS.am.

During the meeting, the interlocutors touched upon the issues of bilateral cooperation between Armenia and Slovenia, ongoing programs, expressing willingness to take steps to activate bilateral political dialogue.

Referring to the damages of Slovenia resulting from the floods - the biggest natural disaster since independence, Minister Mirzoyan expressed Armenia's solidarity with the people of Slovenia and expressed readiness to provide support in overcoming the consequences of the natural disaster. He emphasized the importance of adequate response and steps to address natural and man-made disasters.

Views were also exchanged on the Armenia-EU partnership and cooperation within international organizations.

Regional security issues were also on the agenda of the meeting of the Foreign Ministers of Armenia and Slovenia.

Ararat Mirzoyan briefed his counterpart on the deepening humanitarian crisis in Nagorno-Karabakh resulting from Azerbaijan's illegal blockade of the Lachin corridor and stressed that Azerbaijan's policy of keeping 120,000 people under actual siege, aimed at ethnically cleansing the Armenians of Nagorno-Karabakh, should not be tolerated in the 21st century.

Minister Mirzoyan emphasized the imperative to implement legally binding Orders of the UN International Court of Justice of February 22 and July 6, 2023, immediately lift the blockade of the Lachin corridor, and prevent the imminent humanitarian catastrophe in Nagorno-Karabakh. The importance of targeted calls and steps from international partners, including the EU and its member states, was emphasized.
The President of the European Council, Charles Michel, discussed the Nagorno-Karabakh issue with the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Canada, Melanie Joly, the latter announced on Xformer Twitter.

She noted that during the meeting they addressed the issues in various regions of the world.

"We discussed his vision for European Union expansion in the Balkans, the conflict in Nagorno-Karabakh, and next steps to address the crisis in Haiti," FM Joly wrote.

She stressed that these conversations are key to their work as partners.

This meeting took place within the framework of the Bled Strategic Forum, in which Armenian Minister of Foreign Affairs Ararat Mirzoyan also is participating.

This event is being held in Slovenia on Monday and Tuesday.
The matter of funding the air defense system of the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) member countries will be discussed at the meeting of the heads of the CIS countries governments, said Sergey Lebedev, Chairman of the CIS Executive Committee, reports Sputnik Belarus.

A meeting of the permanent representatives in the statutory bodies of the CIS is taking place today in Belarusian capital Minsk, at the headquarters of the CIS, during which the agenda of the next meetingin Bishkek, the capital of Kyrgyzstanof the Council of Heads of Governments of the CIS member countries will also be discussed.

"Today it will be necessary to form the main backbone of the agenda," said Lebedev.

A number of matters have already been partially formed.

To note, Armenia also is a member in the Commonwealth of Independent States.
Ahead of the new school year, Yerevan-based young beneficiaries of the SOS-Children's Villages Armenian charity foundation received stationery kits thanks to the annual fundraising campaign organized by the foundation.

Byblos Bank Armenia, too, joined the initiative to honor its commitment to contribute as much as possible to the most diverse educational programs.

As a result, stationery supplies were purchased for the children of the Foundation's Family Strengthening Program in Yerevan, benefiting more than 500 kids who are now are ready for September 1.

Byblos Bank Armenia is glad to be working with the SOS-Children's Villages charity foundation to meet the most urgent needs of underprivileged children. Education is the only real stimulus improving the quality of life of people and societies, and with this initiative, we reaffirm our promise to contribute to the development of education in Armenia, said Byblos Bank Armenia CEO Hayk Stepanyan.

The decision of Byblos Bank Armenia to join the campaign aimed at meeting the educational needs of children facing difficult life circumstances is very important. We hope that this step will become the beginning of a closer partnership between Byblos Bank Armenia and SOS-Children's Villages foundation," said Spartak Sargsyan, the national director of the foundation.
Armenia is one of Russia's closest allies and a strategic partner in the South Caucasus. This is noted in a statement by the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) on the 26th anniversary of the signing of the bilateral Treaty of Friendship, Cooperation and Mutual Assistance.

"On this day in 1997, a Treaty of Friendship, Cooperation and Mutual Assistance was signed between Russia and Armenia. The document marked the beginning of the modern phase of interstate relations. Armenia and Russia have agreed to strengthen traditional friendship and multilateral cooperation relations in political, economic, military, scientific, cultural and other domains in every possible way. Also, the [two] countries have committed to work together to improve stability and security both in the South Caucasus and around the world. The signing of the [aforesaid] agreement created conditions for the expansion of the Russian-Armenian political dialogue, the strengthening of bilateral cooperation in the commercial, economic, scientific, technical, humanitarian and other domains," also reads the Russian MFA statement.

In the future, the legal basis of bilateral relations has been expanded to 200 documents, and systematic work is being done to implement them.

The Russian MFA added that Russian-Armenian relations continue to develop in accordance with the principles established by the 1997 treaty. Among them are mutual respect for state sovereignty and independence, equality of rights, non-interference in each other's internal affairs, and non-use of force or threat of force.
The UN Security Council must adopt a resolution regarding the dire situation in Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh). With this call, the members of the Batsum (Opening) initiative of Armenia staged demonstrations Tuesday in front of the embassies of France and the United Kingdom (UK), two permanent members of the UN Security Council.

The members of this initiative call for a decisive resolution to be adopted, which will address a number of vital points. And the first on this list is the transfer of humanitarian aid to Nagorno-Karabakh.

According to them, the second point in the aforesaid resolution should be the reopening of the Lachin corridor, and the third point should impose accountability on Azerbaijan for subjecting the Artsakh population to genocide, torture, and human rights violations.

Also, the members of the Batsum initiative handed letters to the aforementioned embassies with a request to deliver them to the leaders of their countries.

Similar demonstrations are planned Wednesday outside the embassies of the United States and China, two more permanent members of the UN Security Council.
The spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Azerbaijan (MFA), Aykhan Hajizada, said that the statements by Catherine Colonna, the Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs of France, "show a one-sided pro-Armenian position and do not serve peace and stability in the region; they are unacceptable."

Continuing Azerbaijan's policy of denying the severe consequences of its ongoing blockade of Nagorno-Karabakh, the Azerbaijan MFA spox claimed that "the Republic of Azerbaijan is making efforts, within the framework of national legislation, to reintegrate the Armenian residents living in the Karabakh region into the political, social, and economic spheres of our country, and it is absolutely wrong to obstruct this efforts and to declare that as if a policy is being pursued [by Azerbaijan] to remove Armenian residents from the region.

"Once again, we call on the French side to put an end to such inflammatory and provocative statements," Hajizada added.
A demonstration, with Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh) national flags and banners, took place Tuesday outside the Russian embassy in Armenia.

Also, these protesters chanted "No to terrorism," "Artsakh," and "Freedom to abducted Armenians."

"[University students from Artsakh] Alen, Levon, Vahe were abducted near the Hakari bridge by Azerbaijanis in the presence of Russian peacekeepers. Under their [i.e. the Russian peacekeepers] responsibility, those boys were heading for [Armenias capital] Yerevan. Now our demand is very clear: the boys should have come to Yerevan under your responsibility, but now they are not in Yerevan, they are not in Artsakh, they are in [Azerbaijans] Baku, they are in captivity, and no one knows what is happening to them at the moment. Just as you took on responsibility to safely take the boys to their destination, now you bear responsibility to get them back from there [i.e. Baku]. We don't give you time to think, find out, conduct some negotiations. You must return them today. There are women, girls here, and imagine for a moment what state the parents of those boys are in," said one of the demonstrators, addressing Russia.
Azerbaijani media report about the arrival of the "humanitarian aid convoy" in Akna (Aghdam).

It was reported earlier that this convoy was sent by the Azerbaijan Red Crescent Society, and its humanitarian aid includes 40 tons of flour.

But the office of the President of Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh) had informed that the question of aid was not discussed with Azerbaijan. On an unofficial level, Artsakh announced that it is not going to accept it.

Artsakh President Arayik Harutyunyan had announced Monday that the issue of bread deliveries in Artsakh will be resolved.
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Researchers are gaining insights into how schizophrenia develops by studying the strongest known genetic risk factor. When a small portion of chromosome 3 is missing, called 3q29 deletion syndrome, it increases the risk for schizophrenia by about 40-fold.

By analyzing how patterns of altered gene activity overlap in two models of 3q29 deletion syndrome  in mice and in human brain organoids  scientists have spotted an unexpected change in brain cells: impaired mitochondrial function.

The findings converge with work on another genetic risk factor for schizophrenia, 22q11 deletion syndrome or DiGeorge syndrome, which has also been found to involve disrupted mitochondrial function.

The results are published in Science Advances.

For genetic variants associated with schizophrenia, we want to understand the primary pathology at the cellular level, says co-lead author Ryan Purcell, PhD, assistant professor of cell biology at Emory University School of Medicine. This gives us a foothold, which may help cut through schizophrenias polygenic complexity and better understand the neurobiology.

The research came out of a collaboration between researchers at Emory and Rutgers. At Emory, the collaboration included the laboratories of co-senior author Gary Bassell, PhD; Steven Sloan, PhD; and Victor Faundez MD, PhD. The co-lead author is Emory postdoctoral fellow Esra Sefik, PhD, now at Princeton.

Co-senior author Jennifer Mulle, PhD, and colleagues first showed that 3q29 deletion was a risk factor for schizophrenia in 2010. Previously at Emory, Mulle is associate professor of psychiatry, neuroscience and cell biology at Rutgers.

Our data give strong support to the hypothesis that mitochondrial dysregulation is a contributor to the development of schizophrenia, Mulle says. The interplay between mitochondrial dynamics and neuronal maturation is an important area for additional detailed and rigorous study.

3q29 deletion syndrome has an estimated prevalence of about 1 in 30,000. In addition to increasing the risk for schizophrenia, 3q29 deletion can include intellectual disability, autism spectrum disorder and congenital heart defects. The effect of 3q29 deletion on schizophrenia risk is more than any single known gene variant, but the contributions of individual genes within the deletion are still being unraveled.

The finding that various schizophrenia-associated chromosomal deletions converge on mitochondria runs counter to an expectation in the field that such mutations should alter proteins engaged in synapses: the connections between neurons. However, mitochondria are critical for energy-hungry synapses function  so these models may not be in conflict. Further work is needed to know whether mitochondria at synapses are particularly vulnerable, Bassell says.

Finding that 3q29 cells have dysregulated mitochondria was also surprising because only one of the 22 genes in the deletion encodes a protein located in mitochondria. In contrast, the 22q11 deletion contains several genes encoding mitochondrial proteins. The 3q29 gene involved may instead regulate the production or importation of mitochondrial proteins, Purcell says.

Mitochondria are found in every cell  they consume oxygen to produce energy in the form of ATP (adenosine triphosphate). Mitochondria have their own genomes, but most of the proteins found inside them are encoded by genes in the cells nucleus.

As a result of altered mitochondrial function, 3q29 cells lack metabolic flexibility, meaning that they have difficulty adapting to changes in sources of energy. This may interfere with neuronal development, because maturing neurons need to switch to relying more on mitochondria for energy as they differentiate.

Supported by a recently awarded grant, Purcell is now assessing whether cells from people with 22q11 also display the same metabolic inflexibility.

Eventually, we want to understand which cellular changes like these are linked to specific clinical outcomes, which could help in designing more effective therapeutic strategies, Purcell says.

The results reported in Science Advances illustrate how 3q29 deletion affects the whole body, not just the brain; the effects on mitochondria are seen in kidney cells as well as in brain cells. Individuals with 3q29 deletion syndrome also tend to be smaller in size than typical, possibly because of altered fat metabolism.

The research was supported by the Brain & Behavior Research Foundation and the National Institute of Mental Health (F32MH124273, R56MH116994, R01MH110701, R01MH118534), along with the Georgia Clinical & Translational Science Alliance, an I3 (Imagine, Innovate and Innovate) grant from the Emory University School of Medicine and a gift from the Woodruff Fund.
12:16





Neeru Devi from Bihar's Sitamarhi has shifted to Kota, the country's coaching hub, at the age of 80 to be with her grandson who is preparing for the IIT entrance exam at an institute here.





"We would not have been at peace back home," she said, shedding light on the mounting pressure faced by students preparing for medical and engineering entrance exams in Kota.





The year 2023 saw the highest number of student suicides -- 22 so far -- with two ending their lives in a gap of a few hours on August 27.





Last year, the figure was 15.





Packed schedules, cut-throat competition, constant pressure to do better, the burden of parents' expectations and homesickness, are among the common struggles of the students.





Many parents are now averse to putting their children in hostels. Instead, they are renting accommodation in Kota and staying with their children by taking sabbaticals. Sandhya Dwivedi from Madhya Pradesh's Satna is staying with her son here while her husband manages other responsibilities back home.





"Now I worry less. My son studies at night... I give him tea or coffee. He knows I am here to talk to him and comfort him. He was ill twice this month and I was here to take care of him. I want him to crack JEE but I don't want to lose him in the process... we have been hearing about student suicides and we cannot take that risk," she said.





Over two-and-half lakh students move to Kota annually to prepare for competitive exams such as the Joint Entrance Exam (JEE) for engineering and the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET) for admission to medical colleges.





Talking to PTI, Neeru Devi said, "We have been hearing all kinds of news. So we decided to not keep him in a hostel but to stay with him... Now I am staying with him and if he doesn't perform well or doesn't feel comfortable, his mother will come here."





Shivani Jain, a software engineer in Chandigarh, has decided to take a sabbatical to be with her daughter preparing for NEET.





"She is in class 11 now. Till she completes her class 12 and ultimately cracks the exam, I will be in Kota with her. If I leave her in a hostel, I won't be at peace at home.





"At times children hesitate to call home and talk about their stress. But since I am here, I will be able to notice any changes in her behaviour and comfort her. My husband is in Chandigarh with our son who is in class five," she said. Kumari Shimpi from Bihar's Jahanabad is living in Kota with her two children.





"My son is preparing for JEE and my daughter for NEET. With me here, at least they won't feel homesick. Bogged down by studies, if they do not get good food or have to do their own laundry, they won't be comfortable and I will be worried if they take some extreme step in pressure.





"I tell them that if you don't crack the exam, we will go back but I will be here as long as you are here," she said. Battling to keep a check on student suicides, Kota Police say it is very important that parents acclimatise their children to the struggles of the city so they do not feel lost here.

From mothers on sabbatical to grandparents and homemakers, many people are choosing to shift to the coaching hub Kota with their children to ensure they are not stressed while preparing for entrance exams and do not take any extreme step.
Cypress and tupelo trees inhabit the Horseshoe Lake area in Alexander County. (Photo provided by Illinois Department of Natural Resources)

SIU students to travel to flood plain to learn about land use, environmental justice along Mississippi River

by Pete Rosenbery

CARBONDALE, Ill.  Nearly 70 Southern Illinois University Carbondale students, including 55 first-year SIU School of Law students, will travel to a Mississippi River flood plain in Alexander County to learn more about land use policies and environmental and social justice on Wednesday, Aug. 30.

The excursion to the Dogtooth Bend area near Horseshoe Lake was proposed by Sheila Simon, assistant professor in the SIU School of Law, as part of her course on property law, and will be joined by students in media arts professor Sarah Lewisons fall course in environmental media, Rivers and Forests Without End: The Mississippi River Open School.

I hope they begin to grasp the long life and autonomy of the river - especially as we examine another contemporary legal concept, which is that entities such as rivers should be bestowed rights of existence, besides that, a critical understanding of the inherent conflicts involved, Lewison said.

Simon said the journey is an opportunity for her property law students to get a first-hand look at environmental restoration that is made possible through the ways we can split ownership and control of the land, in addition to seeing Horseshoe Lake, which is the product of historical changes in the Mississippi River.

Media advisory

Reporters, photographers and news crews are welcome to attend the field trip to the Horseshoe Lake area in Alexander County to speak with SIU faculty and students. The group will arrive at 11:30 a.m. and use the southernmost picnic area on Horseshoe Lake by the spillway as its headquarters. The picnic shelter is at the intersection of East Side Drive and Promised Land Road. For more information or to make arrangements for interviews, contact Sarah Lewison, professor, School of Media Arts, at slewison@siu.edu or by cell phone at 415-265-5988, or Sheila Simon, assistant professor, SIU School of Law, at ssimon@siu.edu or by cell phone at 618-967-2062.

By visiting the rivers floodplain by kayak, students get to directly experience its dynamism, Lewison said, and compare flooding at Dogtooth Bend with similar patterns of developmental mismanagement they have seen.

We will contemplate the Mississippi as a dynamic entity existing long before technologies of canalization and the notion of turning places into property, along with cultural and political dynamics of colonization, she said. Lewisons group includes five undergraduate students from the School of Media Arts, along with three graduate students in forestry, sociology and writing programs and a teaching assistant in the mass communication and media arts programs.

When students return, they will also study the impact of a 2011 Mississippi River flood near Cairo, Illinois, along with the inactive village of Pinhook, Missouri, which was destroyed after a levee was dynamited to divert floodwaters from Cairo.

This trip hits on all of the themes of the Mississippi River Open School, our umbrella project which extends from the headwaters to the Gulf, Lewison said. We are getting students into the field to witness entanglements of regional ecology, human practice and politics.

Witnessing the impact of property law

Simon noted that for the past two summers, Robert Phillippe, a third-year law student, has worked under her supervision to iron out some issues regarding land titles to properties in Dogtooth Bend in a cooperative arrangement with the U.S. Department of Agriculture and The Nature Conservancy. The work has allowed several local landowners to be compensated for not farming their flood-prone land and the conservation easements allow for restoration of land which can then tolerate regular flooding, Simon said.

There is more to property law than textbooks, Simon said.

Once we get out of the books, students can see the importance of understanding how land ownership can be divided in so many ways, Simon said. They will be able to see the power of law to make a more sustainable landscape right here in Southern Illinois. I hope my students, who are brand new to law school, can use this trip to strengthen their resolve to make positive change. My students are idealistic and committed. I want to reinforce that.

Course development from Mellon Foundation Award

The effort is part of a 2--year multi-layered collaborative project from a 2022 award of more than $16 million from the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation. SIU is partnering with Macalester College in St. Paul, Minnesota, for its Mississippi River Watershed: An Immersive Humanities Curriculum project to examine issues of race, environment and extraction along five hubs of the 2,300-mile river. SIU, partnering with Rhodes College in Memphis, is on the Lower Mississippi River Hub.

In spring 2023, Lewison invited faculty to propose activities and courses that engage with the regions history, identity and ecology in the context of the Anthropocene, a period when human activity began to effect significant environmental consequences, specifically on ecosystems and climate.

Simons proposal, Lewison said, was exemplary. She added that faculty can still propose speakers, field trips and courses.

This expedition to Horseshoe Lake and the focus on property is an amazing example of the kind of vivid learning experiences students can have in our region, she said.
PRNewswire Chandigarh [India], August 29: Chandigarh University is proud to announce that two of its innovative students from the Bachelor of Engineering (Computer Science and Engineering) 3rd-Year batch have kick started their inspiring entrepreneurial journey. Pramod Patel from Jodhpur, Rajasthan, and Ujjwal Dahiya, have taken the entrepreneurial plunge with their start-up venture 'Gold Bezel', a flavourful Tea start-up. The duo has introduced a delightful range of Six flavours of Black Tea (CTC). The inception of 'Gold Bezel' can be traced back to the year 2022 when Pramod Patel and Ujjwal Dahiya initiated cultivating their unique idea of offering a diverse selection of CTC black teas. After months of meticulous planning, dedication, and hard work, their efforts culminated in the official registration of their company on July 13, 2023. With passion for quality and a vision to redefine the Tea experience, 'Gold Bezel' launched its products in the market just about three weeks ago. Their range of exquisite black teas, cautiously curated with six distinct flavours, has already garnered attention and appreciation from tea aficionados across the region. The duo's dedication and commitment towards their start-up is evident in the initial investment of approximately 5-6 lakh rupees they have made into 'Gold Bezel'. This investment is a testament to their confidence in their product and their aspiration to bring a unique tea experience to their customers. Pramod Patel and Ujjwal Dahiya are excited to be the faces behind 'Gold Bezel', showcasing their entrepreneurial spirit while balancing their academic commitments. The start-up is headquartered in Morinda, Punjab. Pramod Patel and Ujjwal Dahiya, the innovative minds behind 'Gold Bezel', extend their heartfelt appreciation to Chandigarh University and its esteemed faculty. The university's unyielding support and motivational guidance have significantly contributed to the entrepreneurial accomplishments of these two visionary students. Pramod and Ujjwal sincerely acknowledge the nurturing atmosphere provided by the university, which watered their idea and turned their concept into a start-up to flourish with time. The duo expressed their gratitude towards their mentors and professors who recognized their potential and consistently encouraged them to strive for excellence. The university's commitment to fostering innovation and cultivating determination has played a pivotal role in shaping their entrepreneurial journey. As their start-up journey advances, Pramod and Ujjwal underline that the university's mentorship has not only enriched them with knowledge but has also ignited an enduring entrepreneurial spirit. The success of 'Gold Bezel' is a testament to Chandigarh University's resolute dedication and the faculty's instrumental role in nurturing their entrepreneurial dreams into a remarkable reality. The Chandigarh University community applauds the efforts of these young entrepreneurs and wishes 'Gold Bezel' great success on its journey ahead. This initiative exemplifies the university's commitment to fostering innovation, creativity, and the entrepreneurial drive among its students. About Chandigarh University ChandigarhUniversityis a NAAC A+ GradeUniversityand QS World RankedUniversity. This autonomous educational institution is approved by UGC and is located nearChandigarhinthe state of Punjab. It is the youngestuniversityinIndiaand the only privateuniversityin Punjab to be honoured with A+ Grade by NAAC (National Assessment and Accreditation Council). CU offers more than 109 UG and PG programs in the field of engineering, management, pharmacy, law, architecture, journalism, animation, hotel management, commerce, and others. It has been awarded as TheUniversitywith Best Placements by WCRC. Website link:https://www.cuchd.in/ Photo:https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2196407/CU_Gold_Bezel.jpg (Disclaimer: The above press release has been provided by PRNewswire. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same)
PRNewswire Bengaluru (Karnataka) [India], August 29: Prasana Prabhu, Chairman of Vyakti Vikas Kendra India, The Art of Living, was awarded the Aakhri Boond appreciation token by the Union Minister for Jal Shakti, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat. In a recently concluded session of the 'Capital Dialogue' series, Prasana Prabhu, Chairman of Vyakti Vikas Kendra India, was awarded the Aakhri Boond appreciation token for the organisation's work through the JalTara Project. The theme for the session was 'Unleashing India's Waterways'. The government is adopting various actions to eradicate the looming water crisis to ensure that every household receives ample water for daily requirements. The Union Minister for Jal Shakti, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, graced the event with his presence and appreciated the work done by The Art of Living Social Projects Team to achieve this objective. The initiative was launched by iTV Network in December 2019 and inaugurated by Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar and the Union Cabinet Minister, Gajendra Shekhawat at The Art of Living Ashram in Bengaluru. Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar addressed the event and spoke about how non-native trees like acacia and babul planted near rivers have led to the lowering of the water table. In his words, "People need to carry out deforestation of non-native water-guzzling species and then carry out afforestation of native, indigenous species." The execution of the Aakhri Boond initiative has successfully met expectations in the last 4 years, with a significant contribution from the volunteers of The Art of Living to improve the situation and make India water rich again. The Art of Living is working on the rejuvenation of 70 rivers and streams across eight states in India. With more than 90,500 groundwater recharge structures built and over 7,00,000 trees planted, the initiatives for water conservation have influenced over 59,000 square kilometres of area and benefited more than 3,45,00,000 people across 19,400 villages. The efforts have resulted in the revival of many dried-up rivers, which now flow perennially, and the groundwater levels have also seen visible improvement. The Art of Living is working relentlessly to ensure sufficient volunteers are available to scale the project successfully in various regions of India. About The Art of Living - Social Projects The Art of Living, a non-profit, educational, and humanitarian organisation founded in 1981 by the world-renowned humanitarian and spiritual leader Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, works closely with the Government of India to relieve the country from water scarcity through various water conservation projects. Follow us at:https://www.instagram.com/artofliving.sp/Like us at:https://www.facebook.com/artoflivingsocialprojectsTweet us at:https://twitter.com/artofliving_spMessage us at:https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/artofliving-sp Media Contact:Shamika Gandhi+919986557389shamika.gandhi@projects.artofliving.org Photo:https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2196409/Aakhri_Boond_appreciation_token.jpgLogo:https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1979631/AOLSP_logo_Logo.jpg (Disclaimer: The above press release has been provided by PRNewswire. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same)
Photo: Photo Mike Howell. Sandra Krotez shared her story Monday about finding affordable rental housing in Vancouver, only to have her husband die two months ago of COVID-19.

It was never the plan for Sandra Krotez and her husband John to leave Courtenay for Vancouver.

But two things happened: the landlord wanted to sell the house they were renting, and two weeks after receiving that news, John fell ill.

He was diagnosed with critical illness neuropathy.

In other words, he was paralyzed.

John was a very active gentleman at 74 and all of a sudden he couldn't walk, said Sandra, sharing her story before appearing Monday at a housing-related news conference with Housing Minister Ravi Kahlon and Mayor Ken Sim.

John ended up in hospital in Comox before transferring to Vancouver General Hospital, where he had access to specialists. The landlord in Courtenay was good enough to pause the sale of the house, while Sandra searched for housing in Metro Vancouver.

That search began in September 2022.

In April of this year, the New Chelsea Society called with good news that an accessible, affordable suite was available in a new complex that opened in December 2022 on Southwest Marine Drive in Vancouver.

Through sheer luck, or great karma or divine intervention, something came up, said Sandra, noting the couple was living on pensions and some income from a job that she had semi-retired from. It was such a gift.

The couple moved into the suite, where no more than 30 per cent of their income would go to the cost of rent. The suite inspired John to get better. He was confined to a bed, then was able to use a wheelchair.

A local rehabilitation centre eventually found a spot for him.

But just two months ago, John died from COVID-19.

When he heard that the house was being sold, it really got him depressed, said Sandra, who got emotional during the interview and later at the news conference.

When he heard that we found this home, it gave him the will to get better. So these homes are not just a roof over our heads. This was our forever home, and he got to enjoy it for a few months.

This 120-unit affordable housing complex on Southwest Marine Drive is spread over two buildings and cost $61.8 million. Photo Mike Howell

$61.8-million project

The six-storey building in which Sandra lives is one of two on the same property between Main and Cambie streets, where there is a combination of 120 affordable and market rent suites.

Project documents from 2020 show 20 units for people with annual incomes up to $26,000; 51 units for households with incomes ranging between $25,000 and $73,000; and 31 units for households with incomes up to $113,000.

The $61.8-million project was made possible by investments from the provincial government and the City of Vancouver, which contributed the land (valued at $22.7 million in 2020). Its an example of a project funded via the provincial governments community housing fund.

The housing minister announced Monday another round of that fund, saying there will be enough money available to build up to 3,500 housing units. Applications will be accepted until mid-November.

I expect we're going to have our partners from the Co-op Association, our partners from not-for-profit housing, from Aboriginal management housing societies and local governments coming forward with projects, Kahlon said. We've seen the success of this fund.

How much the 3,500 units will cost wasnt shared at the news conference, but the government says it has dedicated $3.3 billion to build more than 20,000 affordable rental homes for people with moderate and low incomes by 2031-32.

Approximately 9,000 of these homes are open or underway throughout the province.

Thom Armstrong, CEO of Co-operative Housing Federation of British Columbia. Photo Mike Howell

'It will never be enough'

Thom Armstrong, CEO of Co-operative Housing Federation of British Columbia, welcomed the new round of applications and says his organization will apply for some of the funds. Armstrong described Mondays announcement as a day the community housing sector has waited for, for a long time.

I know the minister would be the first to acknowledge that when one in almost five renter households in B.C. is paying more than half of their income on rent and utilities, it will never be enough, he said at the news conference.

But this government is leading the way. Not just here in B.C., but in Canada, in funding new housing supply. And I'm going to say frankly, it's time for everyone else to step up and to match that commitment.

That remark was directed at the federal government, Armstrong said in an interview after the news conference. He recognized the federal government recently announced nearly $500-million in low-cost loans for projects in Vancouver, but loans arent grants, he said.

The financing alone doesn't get you to a deep enough level of affordability to reflect what's really happening out there in the housing market, he said. So you can build purpose-built rental housing, but not to serve income levels that this [community housing fund] program will target. That's the real gap here.

'Nothing more than remarkable'

In the mayors remarks, Sim made reference to a recent Rentals.ca report showing one-bedroom apartments in Vancouver were being advertised in July for an average of $3,037 per month.

To put it bluntly, that's just not attainable for families, he said.

While today's announcement is certainly good news, I think we can all agree we still need to do more  and we will do more. At city council, we've already laid the groundwork for faster approvals to get more homes built. And we're actively going to take more bold steps to ensure that people who want to call Vancouver home will be able to call Vancouver home.

For Sandra Krotez, meanwhile, she will eventually be moving out of her suite to another one in the complex. She wants to ensure someone or a household struggling to find an accessible home will get one.

The New Chelsea Society has been nothing more than remarkable with their support after the loss of my husband, she said at the news conference. I cannot say how grateful I am also to hear the announcement today to help other people. So thank you, and forgive me for being so emotional.
According to a press statement from the President's Secretariat, speaking on the occasion, the President said that Late NT Rama Rao has enriched Indian cinema and culture through Telugu films. He breathed life into the prominent characters of Ramayana and Mahabharata through his acting. The characters of Lord Rama and Lord Krishna played by him became so alive that people started worshiping NTR.

She noted that NTR also expressed the pain of the common people through his acting. He spread the message of social justice and equality through one of his films 'Manushulanta Okkate' i.e. All human beings are equal.

The President said that NTRs popularity was equally wide as a public servant and leader. He created a unique chapter in Indian politics through his extraordinary personality and hard work. He initiated many public welfare programs, which are remembered till today.

The President appreciated the Ministry of Finance, Government of India for bringing the commemorative coin on NTR. She said that his unique personality would always be imprinted in the hearts of the people, especially the Telugu-speaking people.

NT Rama Rao, who founded the Telegu Desam Party (TDP), also served as the chief minister of Andhra Pradesh for three terms. (ANI)
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy called upon people not to be carried away by "false propaganda" of the opposition Telugu Desam Party (TDP). Addressing a huge public meeting in Nagiri town on Monday, the Chief Minister said that former Chief Minister and TDP National President N Chandrababu Naidu, who had promised heaven to people before elections pushed them towards hell after coming to power and doesnt believe in his own party or his son. "Naidus friendly media is carrying him on its shoulders for selfish ends, he said. Objecting to the oppositions claim that development in the State has taken a back seat, the Chief Minister said that development is tangible in introducing family doctor programme and village clinics for strengthening preventive health care, filling up of speciality doctor vacancies, construction of 17 new medical colleges, 4 new sea ports and 10 fishing harbours besides keeping the State at number 1 position in the Ease of Doing Business (EoDB) for three years in a row. Not even a single scheme comes to our mind when we think of the rule of Naidu who became Chief Minister thrice. The TDP chief is depending on lies, conspiracies and backstabbing for coming to power, he said. He further said it is preposterous that the very person who backstabbed TDP founder and ex-Chief Minister NT Rama Rao and usurped power from him is garlanding his portrait shamelessly for political gains. The Chief Minister made fun of Naidus plans to lodge complaints to the Election Commission and said, Culprits are speaking of lodging complaints against us. The TDP chief has no respect for its own manifesto." Chandrababu, who pursued the policy of plunder, stash and devour by cheating farmers, self-help groups, the unemployed, BCs, STs, SCs and minorities, is once again resorting to conspiracies and lies aiming at coming to power, he said. On the other hand, the Government has so far spent Rs. 2,33,000 crore implementing a slew of welfare schemes treating its election manifesto as the Bhagavad Gita, the Bible and the Quran, he stated. (ANI)
The police stated that search operations were conducted by security forces in the fringe and vulnerable areas of Imphal-West, Imphal-East, Bishnupur, Thoubal and Kakching districts.

The statement added that 6 arms, 5 ammunition, and 2 explosives were recovered during search operations from Imphal-East and Bishnur districts.

The arrests were made on August 28, Monday.

"Manipur Police arrested 1 active cadre of RPF/PLA, 1 active cadre of NSCN(IM) and 2 OGW of KCP (Lamyanba Khuman), Manipur police informed in a tweet.

Meanwhile, the Supreme Court on Friday ordered to transfer trial of criminal cases being probed by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in Manipur violence to Guwahati in Assam.

A bench of Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud and Justices JB Pardiwala and Manoj Misra said there have been victims in valleys and in hills in Manipur and we cant go into who suffered more, there are victims in both communities.

The bench said victims and witnesses will be able to give testimony electronically from their homes in Manipur rather than physically coming to the court in Guwahati.

It passed a slew of directions on the trials in the cases bearing in mind the overall environment in Manipur and a need to ensure a fair process of criminal justice administration.

The violence in Manipur between the Meitei and Kuki communities erupted after a rally by the All Tribal Students Union of Manipur (ATSUM) on May 3.

Violence has gripped the entire state for over four months now and the Central government had to deploy paramilitary forces to bring the situation under control. (ANI)
The Delhi Government has set up an enquiry committee to probe into the alleged sexual assault case of two minor boys in a government school, according to an official statement. The Government of Delhi in an official statement called the alleged incident despicable and said that a committee has been set up to probe the matter. "It is tragic that such a despicable incident allegedly happened in the summer camp organised by the school. An enquiry committee has been set up and thorough probe is underway on the subject. Let the due course of law take place," said an official statement. If any teachers or staff where aware of this issue and did not bring it to the notice of higher authorities, then stringent action will be taken against them, it added. "We can assure you all that the Delhi Government will take swift and stringent action on the matter. We want to set the standard of education in the country which includes character development among students," read the statement. It further said that such culpable deeds would not be tolerated and would be dealt with due severity. Delhi Commission for Women (DCW) Chief Swati Maliwal on Monday issued notices to the Delhi Police and Directorate of Education in the alleged sexual assault case of two minor boys in a government school. "Delhi Commission for Women has received information of sexual assault with two minorboys in a government school of Delhi. A 13-year-old boy who studies in 8th standard in a government school in Rohini was allegedly sexually assaulted by other students of the school," the notice read. "He has informed that in April 2023, he attended school during summer camp wherein some students forcibly took him to a nearby park and sexually assaulted him for 7 days. He has alleged that the accused students also threatened him not to disclose the incident to anyone. He stated that a couple of days ago, he narrated his ordeal to two of his teachers, but they asked him not to report the matter," it added. DCW Maliwal further mentioned that in another case a 12-year-old minor was also sexually assaulted by the same group of students. "Another boy, aged 12 years old has also alleged that the same students sexually assaulted himas well. He has informed that in April 2023, during the summer camp, he was sexually assaulted in the school toilet. He has stated that the accused students had threatened him not to disclose the incident to anyone," the notice read." He has further alleged that around 16 days back, a student again tried to sexually assault him in the toilet. He has further stated that he had narrated the incident to two of his teachers in July and August, but they had asked him to not talk about the incident to anyone," it added. DCW has requested the Delhi Police and Directorate of Education to provide a detailed action taken report on the two matters by September 1, 2023. (ANI)
Hitting back at Union Home Minister Amit Shah's "2G, 3G, 4G" remarks in Telangana, Congress leader Pawan Khera on Monday said that instead, the BJP is 2G party as it is being run by two people only. Pawan Khera, who is the chairman of Congress' Media and Publicity Department, said that JP Nadda is the national president of the Bharatiya Janata Party yet he doesn't have a role in the party. "This (BJP) is a 2G party, Modi G and Shah G. JP Nadda is the president of the party, yet he doesn't have a role in the party. The Home Minister is doing campaigning instead of looking after his ministry and the results are for everyone to see whether in Manipur, Haryana or Uttar Pradesh...you can see the results of a weak Home Minister," Khera said. Earlier on Sunday, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, while addressing a gathering in Telangana's Khammam, called Congress a '4G' party and said that the party is run by four generations of a single family and that the Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) is a '2G' party. "Congress party is 4G party which means four generation party, Jawaharlal Nehru, Indira Gandhi, Rajiv Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi. BRS is a 2G party which means two generation party, KCR and later KTR. But this time neither 2G nor 4G will win because it is time for BJP to come into power in Telangana," Shah had said while addressing the 'Raithu Gosa-BJP Bharosa' rally in Khammam of the poll-bound state. The remarks drew heavy backlash from the Bharat Rashtra Samithi also, with the Telangana minister Harish Rao Thanneeru on Monday challenging the BJP to get even a single-digit seat in the upcoming Assembly elections in the state. The Telangana Assembly polls are scheduled at the end of this year. The rulingBRShas released the first list of 115 candidates for the assembly elections. The state is going to witness a three-pronged contest among the BJP, the BRS and the Congress. The Telangana election will serve as a litmus test for the BJP-led NDA and the INDIA alliance before the crucial 2024 Lok Sabha elections. (ANI)